Date A Live - Volume 19 - Chapter 2

Chapter 2: The Second Date 

February 19th, the forecast called for clear morning skies. 

Naturally, for Shidou who had already experience this day before, he wasn’t worried about the weather. Even if there was the possibility that history would now change because of the behavior of people, it was unlikely that the weather would also change. 

There were a sporadic amount of pedestrians near Tenguu Station this morning. Perhaps, due to being a day of rest, the number of people heading to the train station to play was much more than the usual amount of students departing for school. 

The time was 9:50 a.m. There was still ten minutes before the promised meeting time. Shidou nervously gulped as he glanced at the clock in the center of the station to reconfirm the time. 

“……No, no.” 

Noticing this anxious feeling within himself, Shidou pressed his hand against his chest to adjust his breathing. Even through his shirt, sweater, and thick coat, the violent rhythm from his heart pulsating was felt at his fingertips. 

There was no use being nervous. But this tension was not from fear, but rather from the feelings of uneasiness in the expectations for this date with Reine. 

Indeed, Reine—Mio had killed all of the Spirits in the future world. Rewriting the future from that despair was Shidou’s goal. 

However, he had to avoid the date with Reine becoming solely focused as a means to an end. 

Today, Shidou was looking forward to the date from the bottom of his heart and must allow Reine to also enjoy it as well. To go even farther, in order to get Reine to fall in love with Shidou—even if that was impossible—he must get her to open her heart to him. 

For this reason, he had to abolish all doubts and fears of her. 

“—It’s about time. Reine also just left <Fraxinus> a while ago. She should be there soon. 

—Are you ready?” 

As if having read through Shidou’s heart, Kotori’s voice echoed from somewhere far off. 

Nevertheless, Shidou was not wearing his usual headset for capturing Spirits on his right ear. 

The type used for Spirits would have been noticed by Reine, who had been participating in all of the captures up until now. As a result, the latest bone conduction type communication machine was attached to his neck. 

Although Shidou thought that if there was a more convenient style, it would have been better to use it earlier……but the feeling of usage was certainly different. Still, there was no issue for complaints since thanks to this; conversations could now be overheard under Reine’s notice. 

“……Ah.” 

Shidou gently exhaled as he let out a voice below a whisper. 

Honestly, saying that he had no fears would be a lie. 

However—it wasn’t difficult to think that Shidou would sincerely enjoy this date. 

Right now within Shidou, the memories of Takamiya Shinji have been stirred awake by Mio. 

Moreover, Shinji loved Mio, liking her so much to the point it couldn’t be helped. 

It was yearning so strong that it felt like it would scorch. An intense affection, a wave of rampant emotions that Shidou feared would overwhelm himself. 

That wasn’t right—speaking more accurately, it wasn’t only that. Shidou suddenly closed his eyes and recalled his first meeting with Murasame Reine. 

It was about ten months ago from now. After the first time Shidou encountered a Spirit, he had woken up in the infirmary on <Fraxinus> with Reine right beside him. Looking back now, the voice he had heard in his dreams must have been her voice. 

His first impression of her was that of a—“strange person”. Having said that, she had never slept in 30 years, the thick dark rings around her eyes, and the peculiar stuffed bear in her pocket. Also, there was her somewhat dimly speech pattern, drowsiness, and occasional collapsing onto the ground without warning. 

But despite all of that—Shidou thought that she was beautiful. 

Not only in appearance and posture, but she had an atmosphere full of elegance that wasn’t weakened in the slightest by those aforementioned features. There were her intellectual conduct and movements, and even the melancholic expression shown on her face from time to time. 

Even though it was nothing compared to what Shinji felt for Mio, it was also possible to call this emotion love. There may be a slight deviation in feeling; but—Shidou certainly felt a yearning of wanting to be embraced by Reine. 

So—while it may seem imprudent to shed out his feelings like this—but somewhere in his heart, Shidou was genuinely looking forward to today’s date. 

After realizing this, his heartbeat began to gradually calm down. Shidou took a small breath in and opened his closed eyes. 

At that moment. 

“……Ya, I’ve kept you waiting.” 

“Uhya!?” 

At the next instance, Reine’s face appeared in front of his eyes. Shidou trembled while raising a hysteric voice. 

“R-reine-san……!? How long have you been here!?” 

“……Un. I’ve just arrived. You seemed to have been thinking about something so I didn’t want disturb you.” 

“I-is that so……” 

As Shidou struggled to reply back, he cleared out his throat to regain his composure. 

Thereupon again, Reine’s dress was reflected to his eyes. 

She had on her neither her military uniform worn on the ship nor the lab coat for school hours. But rather, she was wearing a thick overcoat overlaying on a white dress. 

Her hair that was scattered casually on a daily basis was beautifully combed and her lips were coated with a lipstick faintly different than usual. 

It was a different dress from a hidden collaborator from <Ratatoskr>, or an outfit a student would see a teacher in. Today—it was clothing a woman would show to a man. 

With a posture that looked difficult to associate with the usual Reine, Shidou felt himself awestruck for a brief period. 

No—that surely wasn’t the only reason Shidou was so captivated. 

The white dress she wore underneath that coat. 

Due to differing seasons, the fabric was thicker and sleeves were now attached. The hem of the skirt was long enough to hide her knees. At her feet, she was not wearing women’s slippers, but rather a combination of black tights and boots. 

There was no denying the difference. But it was clear that the clothes she had consciously chosen now were done in reference to the clothes Mio wore on her date with Shinji. 

“……………” 

A deep feeling filled between his lungs. The memories of Shinji that survived in Shidou’s heart couldn’t help but want to speak up. 

It was pleasant for him that she still remembered that date. 

The clothes she had picked out for today were near identical to the ones chosen before. 

At that moment— 

“—Dou……,Shidou! Hey, are you listening!?” 

“……!” 

As Shidou held back the tears in the corners of his eyes, Kotori’s voice was transmitted to the nape of his neck. 

“Really……to be in such a daze from just the first contact.” 

“…………” 

Shidou apologized as he touched the communicator. Then, Kotori let out a helpless sigh. 

“Well, forget it. The choices have just come out. —Everyone, are you ready?” 

Then, as if to respond to that— 

“—Ohh!” 

A voice from the non <Fraxinus> crew members echoed from the communication device. 

The <Ratatoskr> airborne ship, <Fraxinus Ex-celsior> 

There were several more figures on the bridge than usual. 

While the bridge was divided into two tiers, the familiar <Fraxinus> crew was on the lower floor. Of course, everyone had already heard the explanation about Reine. Although surprised by the true identity of their colleague, it wouldn’t change their methods since the other party was a Spirit, as they all enthusiastically participated in the strategy. 

At the same time, on the upper level of the bridge, there were several reserved seats made available—where a number of Spirits stood. 

Tohka, Origami, Yoshino, Kaguya, Yuzuru, Miku, and Mukuro all surrounded Kotori’s captain seat. One step below everyone else, Nia was sitting at the seat for the Analytic Officer. Everyone looked on at their personal monitors with a serious look as Shidou and Reine’s figures were on display through the main monitor. 

This was a scene unlikely to happen in normal circumstances. Choosing the options on the bridge to support Shidou’s date was the role of the crew. For the Spirits themselves to be involved, so far there was no precedent for this. Let alone allowing the Spirits to see Shidou capturing another Spirit, it was difficult to imagine that this would have a positive impact for them. 

But—now. Due to a strong demand from the Spirits, this support system has been implemented. 

It was unbearable for everyone. 

Leaving it only to Shidou, a date that held everyone’s fate. 

Being forced to be left unaware of the difficult struggle Shidou was fighting for their sakes. 

“…………” 

Sitting on top of the captain seat, Kotori glanced to look at the Spirits. For a moment, the corners of her mouth relaxed—but immediately afterwards, she returned back to her serious commander expression as she gazed back at the options displayed on her screen. 

 Sorry, I was just charmed by Reine-san just now. 

 Your hairstyle looks different from usual, it looks beautiful. 

 How can I get those clothes off you? 

“All members—select your choice!” 

“Yes!” 

“Ohh!” 

Both the crew members and the Spirits responded to Kotori’s command. 

Incidentally, Origami and Natsumi’s consoles were virtually identical to the rest of the crew members. But for Tohka and Mukuro, it may have been a little bit too difficult to operate, so it was remodeled as a simple control panel with three buttons attached. 

After a few seconds, the total statistics were displayed on the main monitor. The most popular choice was—?. 

“?? ……It’s a normal choice.” 

As Kotori said that, the Spirits who had chosen ? came to an agreement. 

“Yes, saying nothing would be uneasy. But, I think that answer would make someone else happy……” 

“……What’s up with that consideration? Goddess? A Goddess? First of all, you have to observe the situation; I choose ? for that reason……” 

“Umu, this ought to be acceptable for Reine.” 

Kotori lightly nodded in agreement to Yoshino’s opinion. Indeed, it certainly was impeccable for an excuse of being caught in a momentary daze.” 

“Mun……Muku thinks that ? isn’t bad, but it can’t be helped anyway now.” 

“Naturally, God dwells in the nuances. It’s important to notice the small changes from the other party, but—” 

“Supplementary. Depending on the person, it may be regarded as the usual hairstyle being unsatisfactory. Firstly, we should gauge the situation with a safe choice.” 

Mukuro and the Yamai sisters also gave a look of consent. 

After listening to those opinions, Kotori glance slightly to the left side. 

“……And what do you three think?” 

Kotori narrowed her eyes while look on towards Nia, Miku, and Origami. 

“No, it should obviously be ?! No one would expect such a surprise attack from simple-minded boy! From now until the affairs of the nighttime, Onee-san here is trembling in excitement just thinking about it!” 

“That’s right. Reine-san is a mature woman! She’ll definitely accept this kind of wit!” 

“Is the video here recorded? Please send me a copy later.” 

“At least give an explanation Origami!?” 

Hearing the replies from those three, Kotori let out a helpless sight at their (especially Origami’s) response. 

“Hey……since our future is depending on this, can you take this more seriously?” 

“I understand. That’s why I told you the most pleasing option for myself that I heard.” 

“…………” 

A speechless answer. Sweat hanged down from Kotori’s face. 

Nonetheless, not everyone would respond well to this sudden development. Kotori made up her mind as picked up the microphone. 

“—Shidou, choose ?. Let’s start here with a straightforward reply.” 

Hearing the Kotori’s instructions from the communicator, Shidou gave a slight nod before beginning to speak to Reine. 

“Yeah……sorry. I’ve never seen you look like this before, so how should I say this……I was enchanted looking at Reine-san.” 

“……Hmm?” 

Listening to what Shidou had said, Reine seemed to have……faintly twitched her sleepy eyes open. 

“……Really. Hmm. Is that so?” 

For some reason, she placed her hand against her chin as she whispered something vague. Although there was no change in expression, Shidou couldn’t help but think that it made her happy. 

“……Then it can’t be helped. Your clothes are also very handsome.” 

“Ah……thank you for the compliment.” 

Receiving an unexpected counterattack, Shidou instinctively felt his cheeks redden. 

Actually, Shidou’s outfit today was chosen through the advice brought together by the Spirits. Although he was embarrassed at being praised, more than anything else, there was joy at everyone’s efforts bearing fruit. 

“……Well then, Shin. Where are you going today? I see that you’ve brought a lot of luggage.” 

Reine asked while looking at the trolley suitcase being pulled by Shidou. 

Reine’s question was not unreasonable. Shidou’s luggage was large enough that it seemed like someone preparing for a short-term trip. At the very least, it didn’t seem like the preparation for a person about to fight in an all-out war tomorrow. 

“Ah, please rest assured. I’m not afraid of fighting and intending to live in seclusion.” 

As Shidou jokingly replied, Reine let out a small “……eh?” sound while slightly squinting her eyes. 

“……Is that so? That’s really regrettable.” 

“Huh?” 

Having heard an unexpected response from Reine, Shidou rounded his eyes in surprise. 

“……I would be honored if you choose me as your elopement partner. If you want to escape, I’ll follow you to the ends of the earth.” 

“E-eh……Reine-san?” 

As Shidou was struggling to speak in his confusion, Reine blinked a few times before abruptly closing her eyes. 

“Eh? Ah—like that!?” 

Listen to that, Shidou let out an uncharacteristically high pitched voice. ……No, if this was calmly considered, then it was clearly meant to be a joke. However, under these circumstances, it was much easier for one to become flustered. 

Shidou regrouped his composure by clearing his throat with a forced cough before continuing on. 

“The place to go today is……still a secret. I want to surprise Reine-san. —Are you willing to trust and follow me?” 

“……Oh, sure. Let’s go.” 

After hearing Shidou’s words, Reine made a slight nod of consent with a faint hint of indecision—then her eyebrows twitched as if noticing something. 

“Reine-san? What’s the matter?” 

“……This is a date, isn’t it?” 

“Yes—but I don’t think it’s that yet for the time being.” 

“……Hmm. Then—” 

Looking towards Shidou’s direction, Reine reached out in a natural movement. 

“……Holding hands. Can we?” 

“—!” 

Listening to Reine’s sudden proposal, even Shidou’s innermost thoughts were left momentarily stunned. Her soft white fingers turned towards his stomach, ushering in an invitation to Shidou, 

However, Shidou managed to smile back after pretending to calm down. 

“Yes. After all, this is a date—but I failed.” 

“……Failed?” 

“Yes, originally I wanted to ask for that.” 

Hearing Shidou’s words caused Reine to widen her eyes, and then she gently smiled at him. 

“……That’s right. Then I’ve done something bad.” 

“No, it’s fine since I got to see a rare expression from Reine-san.” 

Shidou spoke with a smile as he reached out to grab the hand that Reine had extended out. 

Her hand was smaller than expected, so delicate that it seemed it would break if he exerted more strength on his grip. Was this feeling because of the cold February air, her natural low body temperature—or was it from the excitement and tension heating up his hand? Right now, Shidou couldn’t distinguish the reason. 

However, he tried not to let this feeling show on his face as he continued to take Reine’s hand while walking down the street. 

—It was now the beginning of the war (date) where the future of the Spirits and Shidou were wagered on the line. 

“…………” 

Looking at the main monitor on the bridge, Kotori twirled the Chupa Chups stick in her mouth up and down. 

The center of the screen reflected Shidou and Reine’s figures. They had taken a taxi nearby the station and were now on their way to the destination. 

Of course, this was also a planned move. The taxi had accidently stopped to keep up the façade. The driver was also a member of <Ratatoskr>, although it took a little effort to find a member that Reine had not yet met. In any case, there were no problems with Shidou’s progression as of now, but— 

“……Hmm. What’s wrong, Kotori?” 

Surprised by Kotori’s attitude, from the right hand side, Mukuro slightly tilted her head in confusion. Kotori stopped shaking the Chupa Chups stick in her mouth as she turned to glance at her. 

“Nothing, it’s just Reine’s relationship values……” 

While saying that, she turned once again towards the monitor. 

On both sides of the screen where Shidou and Reine were being recorded, there was data analyzed by the various observation instruments, but—in one of the figures that denoted Reine’s relationship values to Shidou, there was previously unseen curve on display. 

“What is this mysterious waveform? It’s clear that the positive emotions for Shidou are close to the extent of being sealable soon, but there isn’t any sealable response. Although the emotional values are also extremely stable……but on the other hand it doesn’t show any protruding response of increasing as well. —It’s frustrating like the feeling of a throat being tickled. It’s like there nothing to begin to work with.” 

Naturally, this was the first time analyzing Reine, but they didn’t expect such a wavelength response. In the end, it was impossible to have any idea where to attack first from this. 

Whether watching things from a bird’s eye perspective or keeping distance from a dearly beloved, the relationship values from Reine resembled someone looking at everyone else on the stage from the sidelines. 

How to describe this, it was— 

“—A mother-like, feeling?” 

“……!” 

Hearing what Nia had just said, Kotori twitched her brow upward. 

“……I see, that may also explain it.” 

While saying that, Kotori made a sullen face. Indeed, the wavelength caused her to reminisce of the love a mother would have for a child. 

Kotori remembered what Shidou had told her last night. —Mio, the creator of all other Spirits, and also the Spirit who absorbed the deceased Takamiya Shinji to give birth to Shidou. Perhaps, she was a suitable existence to be called a mother. 

However—rather than an affectionate mother who embraces and accepts all, she was a huge mother who would swallow her children and destroy them. 

“……But that being said.” 

Kotori thought about it once again while stroking her chin. 

It’s true that the relationship between Reine and Shidou, as well as the Spirits, was similar to a mother-child relationship. 

Moreover, since Mio and Shinji were lovers. Usually, if leaving the two on their own devices, a response should appear. However— 

“In order to fulfill that goal, it is necessary to strengthen the concept that Shinji and Shidou are the same person……or let her realize that Shinji and Shidou are different people—no matter what, neither method looks particularly easy.” 

While watching the taxi pass through the general road and enter the expressway, Kotori licked her lips. 

Despite not knowing how long since departing from Tenguu station, the taxi carrying Shidou crossed the freeway and the mountain pass before finally reaching their destination. 

“Is here ok?” 

The driver glanced at the rearview mirror as he asked for a confirmation from them. Shidou gently nodded to confirm this as he took out his wallet from his pocket. 

“Yes, thank you very much.” 

While double checking the toll meter for the distance traveled, Shidou pulled out the corresponding bank notes from his wallet. Then, Reine raised her voice below a whisper. 

“……Are you paying? It’s quite a good amount of money.” 

“No need to trouble yourself, I will pay it.” 

“……But.” 

“Don’t worry about it. —Please let me look a little bit better.” 

“……Well then, I’ll leave it to you.” 

As Shidou smiled while speaking, Reine withdrew obediently. Perhaps she thought that being too persistent would be cause Shidou to lose face in this situation. 

After making quick work finishing the payment, Shidou got out of the car first and extended out his hand to escorts Reine. 

“Please watch your step.” 

“……Ah, thank you.” 

As Reine step out the car while taking Shidou’s guiding hand, she momentarily narrowed her sight after blinded by the sunlight beaming through the trees—before long, she opened her eyes to see towering building soaring over the ground. 

“……This is.” 

A huge building was standing there. The entrance was a magnificent gate with a historical feel. Peeking at the roof tiles, one was able to catch a glimpse of the superior craftsmanship. At the spacious entrance, women wearing traditional Japanese clothes and men wearing hantens lined up to greet Shidou and Reine. 

“……This is a ryokan?” 

“Yes.” 

Faced with Reine’s question, Shidou reassuringly replied back 

That’s right. This was the location for the date that everyone had brainstormed for last night. 

—From everyone’s consensus, the conclusion drawn was that what Reine needed most was “healing”. 

She was perhaps the most hard working member onboard <Fraxinus>, doubling also with a teaching job at Raizen High School. Even when ignoring that, she had been struggling with a single goal for over 30 years. Regardless of being a Spirit, it’s no wonder that she has been so physically and mentally exhausted. In fact, everyone thought that the exaggerated dark rings under Reine’s eyes and her inexplicable sleepy atmosphere were proof of that. 

Far from the hustle and bustle of the city, with the aid of the various relaxing facilities such as hot springs, it would eliminate the long-standing drowsiness and fatigue that Reine had been accumulating. 

If her fatigue can be resolved, then her obstinate heart ought to become more serene as well—this was Shidou’s chief aim. 

“…………” 

Needless to say, Shidou didn’t think that this was enough to thaw her firm resolve. 

In the end, this was just a stage device. 

What mattered was—the actions that Shidou would take here. 

As Shidou was thinking this over, Reine gazed at the exterior of the ryokan before suddenly speaking. 

“……That reminds me, did you tell the Spirits about today?” 

“No, it’s a secret between us.” 

Shidou immediately replied back. Well, in fact rather than just knowing, everyone was watching the date from the main monitor on the bridge. 

Then, he heard Reine mutter a “…hmm” sound to herself before she spoke. 

“……Yes, it really feels like an adulterous trip.” 

“Ugh……!?” 

Hearing something that exceeded his expectations, Shidou reflexively had a coughing fit in response to Reine’s words. 

“…No, sorry. That came out carelessly.” 

“N-no……” 

Shidou felt his face cramp up from the forced smile on his face. ……Although the purpose of the trip was certainly for relaxation, he could understand how this location left that impression on Reine. 

……Reine and an adulterous trip. This inexplicable temptation caused cause Shidou’s heart to inconceivably undulate. 

However, he couldn’t let himself be stuck here forever. Shidou coughed twice to clear his mind before continuing on. 

“Well, anyway, I have it scheduled so that we can return back for tomorrow’s battle.” 

While speaking, Shidou tightened his grip on Reine’s hand. 

“So for now—let’s stretch our wings to our heart’s content.” 

“…………” 

Reine returned back Shidou’s gaze. 

“……Well then, this is a chance for me to presume upon your benevolence.” 

Reine also applied more force in gripping Shidou’s hand, 

“—!” 

Although her grip was not as strong as Shidou’s, her firm grip still conveyed a feeling of deep trust and affection. 

Whether this feeling was Shidou’s own for Reine or Shinji’s feelings for Mio wasn’t clear. Still, Shidou remembered yearning a desire to reflexively embrace her. 

Despite having said that, it was impossible to do such a thing here. While suppressing that impulse, Shidou guide Reine’s hand into the ryokan. 

“Welcome.” 

The staff of the ryokan including the proprietress bowed as they respectfully greeted them. Shidou finished the procedure at the front desk before being guided into a room by hostess. 

“The large public bath is on the first floor. Please refer to this guide for instructions on the other facilities. I hope you enjoy your stay here.” 

The hostess bowed again before leaving the room. After watching her leave, Shidou carefully looked around the room. 

It was a traditional Japanese-style room at around 20 tatami mats. A firmly made chair and cushions were at the center of the room, decorated with a flower vase that was basking in the indirect lighting from the paper oil lanterns. 

A paper sliding door marked off the interior of the room, the wide corridor—the so-called mysterious space of any ryokan—extending out from that place and lead to a small personal open-air bath dedicated for this suite. 

It would be considered too luxurious for a high school student to be given such a suite. Looking at the room for the first time, Shidou couldn’t help but let out his voice. 

“……Un, it’s a nice room.” 

“Haha……yes.” 

As Shidou replied back with a smile, he picked up the inn’s instructional pamphlet that introduced the various facilities. 

A large bathhouse, bedrock bathes, beauty treatments, messages……just from a rough glance he could see there was a variety of options in this hotel. 

Which one to try first—while thinking of something along those lines, Shidou suddenly heard Kotori’s voice from the communication machine. 

“—Shidou, the options are coming.” 

Three options were once again displayed on the main monitor onboard Fraxinus, which was currently floating directly above the ryokan where Shidou was currently residing. 

 Enjoy the open space of the huge public baths. 

 Spend a relaxing time in the private outdoor bath. 

 Refresh your body with a massage. 

“All members—select the option!” 

As the crew members on the lower part of the bridge heard Kotori’s commands, they began to operate on the consoles at once. 

Even the Spirits on the upper half of the bridge, who were momentarily puzzled by the choices given, soon made up her minds on the selection of the choice. 

The choice chosen by everyone was—? 

“Hmm……? huh.” 

Kotori spoke while lifting the Chupa Chups stick upward. The Spirits then made a collective nod of consent. 

“……Umu. Shidou and Reine bathing together……that, although it may feel uncomfortable, I would be happiest with this option chosen.” 

“Yes……I think it would better if the two of them talked together alone.” 

As Tohka and Yoshino spoke with a complicated facial expression, Origami remained emotionless despite her hand slightly trembling. 

“There is no one to hinder when they are alone in a small bath. It is an ideal condition. It doesn’t matter. I am calm. I am calm. I am calm.” 

“Hey, why did you say that three times……?” 

As Natsumi spoke while shivering with trepidation, Origami continued on in a flat mechanical tone. 

“There are no problems. I have experience as well in bathing alone between two people. I will not lose my calmness to something of this level.” 

“What……that was when you ambushed Shidou exactly when we came in!……If you say it like that……I have also……” 

“Fu—if it comes to bathing, you cannot exclude us Yamai.” 

“Consent. There is a nice memory of Shidou being sandwiched by Yuzuru and Kaguya.” 

“What, seriously……?” 

Then, the bridge suddenly transformed into a bathtub boasting tournament. Well, in part besides one person— 

“That’s right. It’s the long-awaited onsen inn for nude socializing! In that case it’s better to have a narrower place! Such a huge opportunity! Inside the bathroom! Tightly squeezed together with Reine-san! It’s the world’s best lunchbox! I wouldn’t leave anything not gobbled up!” 

There was one Spirit alone in her excitement. 

“Ah—calm down already.” 

In fact, when considering the number of times bathing with Shidou, as his younger sister, Kotori would be the undisputed winner for the most times. However, wishing to deviate from the topic, Kotori chose to remain silent. 

Regardless of the direction of the topic, Kotori also held the same opinion. While it was certainly feasible that sudden mixed bathing with Reine would spark resistance, but in their prudence there should be a swimsuit prepared inside their luggage. 

“—Shidou its ?. Let’s use the open-air bath.” 

“……Roger that.” 

Upon hearing Kotori’s instructions, Shidou answered back in a soft voice that only the bone conductor type transmitter could pick up. 

The instructions issued down from <Fraxinus>. While it was certainly an aggressive attack—he couldn’t move forward if he shrank back here. If he were at on the bridge himself, he would have likely chosen the same option. 

Shidou took in a deep breath as he felt his heart tuning out a violent rhythm. Then, he turned to face Reine. 

“Reine-san, since it’s so rare to come here, do you want to soak in the open-air bath before going to lunch?” 

“……Eh? It’s fine. But I didn’t bring a change of clothes.” 

“No problem.” 

Shidou gave a thumbs up as he opened the trolley suitcase he brought along. 

From inside, there were two small Boston bags. 

“……This is?” 

“One is mine and the other is prepared for Reine-san. Inside there are cosmetics, replacement clothes, a mixed bathing suit. Since the size should match—” 

Having spoken that far, Shidou suddenly stopped. 

Although it was good to show off to the best of his ability, Shidou noticed that his boasts and actions were beginning to undergo quite a dangerous metamorphosis. 

“……Uhh, don’t get me wrong. The clothes were prepared after talking with Maria. So I didn’t pick it directly or investigate the size……” 

“……Ah, I didn’t think so.” 

As Reine spoke, Shidou let out a quick sigh. 

“……Then again, you asked Maria? I wonder if you were scolded by her.” 

“……Ah, yes. I got an ample amount of that from her.” 

Shidou forced a smile as sweat dripped down his cheeks. ……In truth, there was no concealment or lies to what he had said just now. 

“……Alright, let’s get in. I wonder if we can use the hotel’s towels. I haven’t soaked in a hot springs in a long time, so I’m looking forward to it.” 

After saying that, Reine began to slowly undress. 

Seeing those movements done without the slightest hesitation, Shidou’s eyes could help but flare open in a “Wow!” like motion. 

“R-Reine-san, please wait a minute. I’ll head over there……!” 

“Huh? But I don’t care that much……” 

Despite the frightening level of laxness in Reine’s tone, he shouldn’t be watching her change. Shidou grabbed the Boston bag containing his own belongings and hurried to the wider corridor and closed the paper sliding door shut. 

“Even though it’s obvious that you’ll be taking a bath together later, what’s the use of being ashamed?” 

“That’s not it. Even though we’ll be bathing together, that’d be with swimsuits on……as expected, you shouldn’t be watching someone else undress.” 

After responding to Kotori’s voice, Shidou wiped the sweat from his back as he took out his swimsuit from his bag and quickly changed his clothes. ……Since the automatic camera should still be rolling, he also covered his waist with a towel just in case. 

Soon afterwards, he heard Reine’s voice come from the other side of the door. 

“……Shin, can I open the door?” 

“Ah, yes. Go ahead.” 

In order to enter the open-bath, one had to walk into the corridor where Shidou was presently located. Shidou replied back while placing his folded clothes on the chair. 

His voice fell just as the door pulled open— 

“—What……?” 

The next moment, Shidou was left stunned as his breathing came to a standstill. 

However, Shidou’s complete and utter shock was also excusable. After all, what stood behind the paper sliding door was Reine’s figure, without wearing a single thread of clothing on her other than a small towel. 

Her white skin that had been hidden over by her dress and coat was now undoubtedly exposed to the open air. 

Even the minuscule textures of her skin were being conveyed simply through a gaze: the gently-sloping but also rough body lines. 

Beautiful. An excessively nude beauty. Before her beauty which aroused desire and excitement, it resembled more like divine reverence. 

……Well, of course. In the end, it was firstly not possible to not have a sense of excitement or desires emerge. In fact, that violent and majestic chest was now liberated from the restraint of clothes. Despite feeling rigid from the sight, Shidou couldn’t avert his eyes away. 

“……” 

Shidou forgot to speak or even blink, his gaze completely raptured by that alluring figure. 

“Wha……” 

“Th-this is……” 

—A commotion struck the bridge. 

The reason was simple. As soon as the sliding door opened, the monitor faded to black as if the power had turned off. 

However, it seemed to be neither a malfunction on <Fraxinus>’s part or something caused by a disturbance in radio waves. As proof of this, the other equipment was still operating fine as the audio continued to flow from the speaker unchanged. 

“R-Reine-san……?” 

“……What’s the matter, Shin?” 

“That……was the swimsuit in the luggage not there?” 

“……Hmm? I don’t understand. What’s wrong, there’s only the two of us here. Isn’t that right?’ 

“N-no, that……” 

“……!?” 

While listening to the conversation between Shidou and Reine on the bridge, the male crew members lined up……all flaring up their ears in excitement. 

“C-Commander!” 

“Analytic Officer Murasame’s bare……no, I can’t miss seeing an important scene like this!” 

“Restore it now!” 

Kawagoe, Mikimoto, and Nakatsugawa all shouted in unison. Although also part of the male lineup, Kannazuki seemed to have no interest in big breasts. Rather, in his stead, Miku screamed “Ha! What happened? I didn’t do anything and it broke!” as she tried to look at the back of her personal monitor. Of course, there was no sense in what she tried to do. 

“—Maria?” 

As Kotori ignored their voices, Maria’s voice came out from the speaker to respond to her. 

“Yes. Our aim is only to make the Spirits fall in love. It would be wise to eliminate the possibilities that would make Reine feel unpleased after the sealing.” 

“Your appropriate forethought is much obliged.” 

As usual, the ever cautious AI. Kotori replied back with a slight shrug from her shoulders. —Incidentally, Kotori’s personal monitor remained unchanged in displaying the scene. Despite being the same gender, Reine’s naked body being exposed without hesitation even caused Kotori to pause in breathing. ……Indeed, this was poison for the eyes. 

“But!” 

“We cannot understand the situation fully between the two from voice only!” 

“There is the risk of misjudging!” 

The male crew members unyieldingly refused to give up. Then, as if expecting this behavior, Maria replied back. 

“Please rest assured.” 

At the next moment, the main monitor and all of the personal monitors beside Kotori’s began to light up once again. 

For a moment, the faces of the male members and Miku lit up……but then froze instantly right afterwards. 

The reason was simple. Rather than the original image being projected there, it was a human type CG that traced the movements of the two. Incidentally, this came with clothes attached of course. 

“With this you all should be able to grasp the movements of those two. Continue on with the capture.” 

“………………Yes.” 

Somehow, the mood for the male crew members plummeted as they dejectedly nodded. 

As Kotori looked on at that pitiful sight, she pulled the microphone closer in order to give advice to Shidou, who was now flabbergasted in front of Reine. 

“U-Uhh……” 

As Shidou felt his face flush deep-red, Kotori’s voice interrupted from the communication device. 

“—What are you cringing for, Shidou. Do you think such a thing can make Reine fall in love?” 

“……!” 

Upon being told this, Shidou felt a quiver reach his shoulders. 

Surely it was this rationale. The future of the Spirits was hanging on his shoulders. He could afford to stake his time being bashful right now. 

“—That’s right, since it’s just the two of us.” 

When deciding on his preparations, he turned the towel on his hands and took off the swimsuit in one swift motion. 

Somehow he heard a sound rattling from the communication device, asking “Kotori, is having only CG really enough?” Despite hearing the familiar voice asking to disclose for a more open video feed, Shidou chose to ignore it for now. 

“Well then, shall we?” 

“……Ah.” 

Shidou and Reine lightly nodded to each other as they left the locker room. The winter chill that had been blocked by the glass doors enveloped their entire bodies. 

After rinsing first with a bath, they soaked into the warm hot springs water. 

“Ah……” 

“……Hmm, the water is nice and warm and there’s a beautiful scenic view.” 

“Yeah, there’s still some snow left……!?” 

While agreeing with what Reine had said, Shidou began to look around at the scenery —before being struck by another coughing fit once again. 

The reason was simple. Compared to the surrounding scenery, Reine’s breasts floating above the surface of the bath was much more eye-catching. 

Perhaps noticing from the direction of Shidou’s gaze and his reaction, Reine slowly looked down before returning back to eye level. 

“……Ah, sorry. They always float somehow.” 

“Eh……that’s a pretty good point.” 

Although Shidou didn’t know what he was doing or saying, he still knew that it was a blessing to behold such a beautiful sight as he subconsciously pressed his hands together. Despite having said that, after hearing an incoming cough come from Kotori, Shidou quickly corrected his seating posture. 

Returning back to topic, the two of them were alone in the open-air bath. Besides the sounds of hot water being continually poured into the bathtub and the swaying of nearby trees, everything was intervened by a silence. There was only the transparent pool water separating them. If one desired to shorten distance, there was perhaps no better suitable location than here. Well, if there was no intimacy to begin with, it would have been impossible to soak in a hot springs like this. 

While struggling to hold down the palpitations striking his chest, Shidou tried to speak as naturally as possible. 

“—That reminds me, Reine-san. How long have you been working for <Ratatoskr>?” 

“……Ah, that’s right. It’s been 5 to 6 years from now. Roughly the same time Kotori took over as commander.” 

“I see……how to say this, thank you.” 

“……What are you talking about?” 

Listening to what Shidou had said, Reine slanted her head in curiosity. 

“No, for always having supported Kotori. For her—Kotori, it must have been difficult at that time.” 

There was no falsehood here distorting Shidou’s true feelings. Kotori was discovered by <Ratatoskr> immediately after being turned into a Spirit. During that period, having someone worthy of relying on was an invaluable existence. 

……Well, the story wasn’t that simple, since it was Mio who had made Kotori into a Spirit. 

“……I haven’t done anything significant. She would have made a great commander even without me.” 

“Well, I can’t deny that Kotori still would have been great.” 

As Shidou pretended to jokingly comment, he heard a small burst of sound coming through the communicator. 

“What did you do before then?” 

“……Before then? You ask a strange question.” 

After listening to Shidou’s question, accompanied by the sound of dripping water, Reine turned over her gaze. However, Shidou continued to inquire without escaping from that gaze. 

“—Yes. I would like to know more about Reine-san. Now that I think about it carefully, I don’t know anything about you.” 

“…………” 

Hearing what Shidou had just asked, Reine remained silent for a while before letting out a sigh. 

“……There’s nothing worth mentioning from my past.” 

“That’s fine. Even so, I still want to know.” 

As a result of Shidou inquiring so earnestly, Reine began to reply while averting her eyes downward. 

“……Before that, I was just a regular student. There’s nothing special worth mentioning. One day, I was scouted by <Ratatoskr>. It seems that a paper I wrote about spacequakes was very popular with the higher ups.” 

“No, I feel that is already different from being normal……was this during college or high school? After all Reine-san right now……” 

“……It’s not refined to enquiry about a woman’s age.” 

From the tone in her voice, Shidou knew he couldn’t push the topic any further. Shidou shrugged his shoulders as he let out a wry smile. 

Well, since Reine was a Spirit, Shidou was conscious that age was not that really significant. 

Reine was a very alert Spirit. Before entering <Ratatoskr>, she must have faked her resume in order to survive the rigorous screening process. Consequently, she must have prepared a family register or experience from education. 

Everything for the sake of meeting with Shidou once more as an unrelated person. 

At the same time, while also waiting nearby for Shinji’s awakening. 

—For this sake, she created a new life as “Murasame Reine”. 

“…………” 

This awareness of that misery and grief caused Shidou’s chest to feel sore. The memory of Shinji within himself tried to raise a scream. 

The grief Mio felt when he died and the path she took on since then. When thinking about that, tears inevitably leaked from his face. Not wanting this to be noticed, Shidou splashed some water on his face. 

“……Shin?” 

“……I want hear more about it. Reine-san’s—old stories. Can you tell me?” 

“………There’s nothing wrong with that.” 

Shidou questioned with an awkward smile. Although Reine looked a little confused, she still answered back. 

When she was young both of her parents had died. There were a few good memories of some close friends. She belonged to the department of science during her school days. Because of her pale face and lack of sleep, she had an old nickname of being called a vampire— 

Despite there being some exaggerated jokes, this was undeniably the history of a human being that was not—”Takamiya Mio”. 

“……So then, this type of story. —Is it boring?” 

“No……there’s no such thing. There’s……no such thing.” 

Shidou continued to shake his head. 

This was not boring, not at all. Rather, he wanted to hear more about her life story. 

Especially—one. There was one point in particular Shidou especially wanted to ask. An important detail omitted from Reine’s story just now. 

“I have one last question……is it alright to ask?” 

“……Un, what do you want to ask?” 

As Reine urged him to continue, Shidou kept staring directly at her. 

“Reine-san—do you have anyone that you like?” 

“…………” 

Hearing what Shidou had asked, Reine was speechless for a brief moment. 

Although the changes in facial expression were minimal, there was something different in Reine’s appearance than before. 

But after this lasted for a few seconds, she soon returned back to her previous demeanor before continuing on. 

“……Unfortunately, there were no love affairs to talk about. But—” 

Reine slowed down as she raised her head. 

“……That’s right. There was only one person.” 

“—” 

Shidou held his breath at what Reine had said. 

“Only one.” Needless to say, the object of her affection was not someone she loved as “Reine” —it was easy to infer that she was referring back to Shinji. 

The remorse of Mio continuing to remain shackled and the delight that she was still thinking about him to this day. These conflicting emotions swirled inside Shidou’s mind. 

While suppressing Shinji’s memories, Shidou asked back with trembling voice. 

“Who is this—” 

“…………” 

Then. 

As if to interrupt Shidou’s words, Reine placed an index finger against Shidou’s lips. 

“Huh……?” 

“……It’s not fair that I’m the only one talking about the past. Would you mind letting me hear your story as well?” 

“Oh……um.” 

Due to the imposing manner of the demand, Shidou helplessly widened his eyes in surprise. 

A misdirection Reine cunningly used to divert the conversation……but although she was certainly right since he was the only one inquiring since they first began. With that in mind, Shidou nodded in response to Reine’s request. 

“Even if I say more……hasn’t <Ratatoskr> already thoroughly investigated me?” 

Shidou swayed his shoulders with a dry smile on his face. Yes, information about Shidou had been thoroughly checked by <Ratatoskr> without his knowledge. It was to the extent that the word “personal privacy” had been deleted from his dictionary now. Perhaps, there was information that he even didn’t know about himself now stored in <Fraxinus>’s database. 

However, Reine slowly shook her head. 

“……That’s just a list of words, only externals facts.” 

In truth, Shidou thought that should be enough……although it apparently seemed to differ for Reine. She continued to speak in a quiet tone. 

“……I am also the same; I also want to ask about your past.” 

“My……past?” 

“……Yes. Do you remember—what happened to you before being adopted into the Itsuka family?” 

As soon as he was told this, Shidou’s eyebrows twitched slightly upward. 

For a moment, he thought that the knowledge of him holding the memories of Shinji had been exposed to the other party. 

However, looking at Reine’s appearance, he quickly understood that was not the case. Reine’s restless eyes were looking at him with pure curiosity and interest. 

“…………” 

Therefore, while temporarily ignoring his memories as Shinji, he answered back within the range he remembered as Shidou. 

“……To be honest, even though I can’t remember clearly, I remember the feeling of being embraced by a warm pair of hands……and then the feeling of losing the touch from those hands leaving somewhere……from only that, I think it was my mother.” 

“…………” 

As Shidou, not in the least falsely manner replied back, Reine remained silent for a while before continuing to speak. 

“……Do you hate your mother for abandoning you?” 

“Eh……?” 

Hearing that sudden question caused Shidou’s eyes to widen. 

However, perhaps that question should have been considered a matter of course. 

The person named Itsuka Shidou was reborn by Takamiya Mio using Takamiya Shinji as a source through the power of the Spirits. In other words, Shidou’s mother was no other than Reine. Needless to say—it was unlikely that Reine knew Shidou was already aware of this. 

Shidou, while thinking back to the 17 years —while recalling the life of Itsuka Shidou so far, uttered a reply. 

“I don’t hold a grudge……” 

“……Huh. Is that so?” 

Listening to what Shidou had said, Reine replied back. The tone of her voice was overflowing by both exuberant interest and a somewhat level of ease. 

“……Yes. Certainly when I was first adopted by the Itsuka family, I was always crying and fainting. But I think that was because of my own fondness to my mother. And……I still remember how gentle it felt with her hands holding me.” 

“…………” 

“—So I think mother must have had a difficult time abandoning me. She couldn’t have been someone who willingly wanted to throw me away. For someone like that……I can’t hate her.” 

“…………I see.” 

Reine, as if relishing what Shidou had said, lowered her eyes down. 

Shidou then scratched his face and interjected with a “……well”. 

“If possible, I hope she can embrace me again………although I’d think it would strange to do that at this age.” 

“……Hmm.” 

Reine breathed in a light sigh of relief as she placed her hand against her chin in thought. Then, she waved his hand, beckoning Shidou to come closer. 

“……Come here, Shin.” 

“……Huh?” 

Faced with the sudden invitation, Shidou was left shocked. Reine then pulled his hand, drawing him closer. 

Then, she wrapped his hand around his back, tightly embracing him. 

“……Good boy, good boy.” 

With the soft feeling of her hands touching his back, Shidou felt his face flush bright red. 

“Wait……Reine-san!?” 

“……Nothing to be surprised about, it feels a little bit better, right? —Although I don’t think I can replace your mother at all.” 

“Reine-san……” 

As Shidou called out her name, he felt strength leave his stiffened body. 

Warm water and a gentle embrace. The feeling was—exactly as he remembered in his distant memories. 

“…………” 

From this small feeling, Shidou gently bit into his lips. 

As he thought—of course. 

The words he heard from Mio were once again raised into his mind. 

The ten months he had spent together with Reine passed through his mind. 

—Mio was neither a ruthless killer nor a frantic slaughterer. 

She was concerned about Shidou, had pity for the Spirits, and mourned for those sacrificed. Her actions, words, and voice were all filled with a degree of tenderness and love. 

However—in order to reunite with Shinji again, she had decided to be willing to sacrifice anything in order to achieve that goal. 

Indeed, how—sorrowful. 

Her grievous resolution, her decision to walk into that field of carnage, Shidou felt the illusion of his chest being torn asunder. 

“—” 

But—no, that was why. 

If there was a possibility in stopping her—then he had to bet everything on that. 

Shidou let out his voice while returning back the hug. 

“—Reine-san.” 

“……Un, what is it Shin?” 

As Reine’s voice lingered in his ear, Shidou made up his mind as he continued to speak. 

“Later……I have something I want to show you. Can you accompany me?” 

“……?” 

Despite the incredulous look on her face, Reine nodded as if saying of course. 

The market values of European enterprises were ranked from top to bottom. Despite the subtle variations depending on the year, DEM would never fallout from the single digits. 

DEM—Deus Ex Machina Industries. 

This super organization was involved in a wide range of developmental projections including the manufacturing of arms, aircraft, vehicles, ships, space development, semiconductors, electronic equipment, fiber industry and even travel agencies. Furthermore, the enterprise, with its wide range of affiliated companies and R&D projects, can be said that half of the residents of European countries lived under its grace. 

However, even that number did not consider taking into consideration the real developmental result behind DEM—the Realizer Manifestation Device and the accompanying CR-Unit. In other words, that was just the tip of the iceberg. 

A private enterprise that had enough wealth to buy a small country and possessed the means of turning such behavior into reality. Like its name suggested, it was an overwhelming and tyrannical grey giant. The castle built by the Magician Isaac Westcott. 

—On one corner of such an enormous organization, such a glimpse can be seeing in the hanger of the aircraft. DEM second executive manager Ellen Mathers was wearing a suit made by DEM, holding up a sports bottle made by DEM, and onboard an aircraft produced by DEM. 

DSS-063 <Lemegeton>. It was a new battleship of DEM and their flagship in the upcoming battle against <Ratatoskr>. 

Its rough silhouette was a bit too plain for Ellen’s taste—but that was not important right now. What was required now was a robustness needed to protect Westcott in its belly and a violent power need to turn <Ratatoskr> into dust in the air. 

Ah—but it couldn’t be helped. Ellen clenched her fist while straining her eyes. 

If <Ratatoskr> knew that DEM would attack them with all of their power, there was no doubt that he would appear. 

“…………” 

The head of <Ratatoskr>’s decision making body, the chairperson of the Round Table, Elliot Woodman. Only that person, Ellen had to personally cut down. 

That’s right. Only that man, who had betrayed Ellen and her compatriots. 

“…………” 

In that moment, Ellen felt her vision get a little blurry, so she wiped her eyes with her sleeves. 

Was it because of the excitement from finally having the chance to have her revenge fulfilled, or was it due to so much concentration that she had forgotten to blink. Although she didn’t quite understand the reason herself, but if her subordinates saw this scene they would surely misunderstand. Ellen gently shook her head a little before taking a drink of the beverage within the sports bottle. 

“—Ellen.” 

At that moment. 

Having heard someone unexpectedly calling out her name, Ellen lowered the bottle and turned around. 

For a moment, she thought it was a crew member or Wizard on the airship—but that wasn’t right. There were only two people who would call her by her first name. The first would be her colleague Artemisia Ashcroft and the other was— 

“Ike.” 

After recognizing the identity of the person who appeared, Ellen called out his name. 

The man over there had dusky blonde hair reminiscent of abandoned metal and a pair of eyes reflected with a rusted hue. Throughout the vicissitudes of life to old age, to the end of prosperity—this man gave the impressing of such a feeling. 

Isaac Westcott. An inheritor of the mysteries and a blood descendent of the magicians—the man who establish DEM within a single generation. 

“What’s wrong, for you to come to such a place?” 

Although she had asked this question, Ellen could vaguely guess why he had come here. 

With the decisive battle against <Ratatoskr> tomorrow, perhaps he couldn’t remain standing idly in his office and ran here specifically to see the main ship for tomorrow’s battle. Despite now being an industrialist required by the world, his natural curiosity remained unchanged. 

However, the next words that came out of Westcott’s mouth were completely beyond Ellen’s expectations. 

“—Prepare, Ellen. Immediately.” 

As Westcott excitedly spoke, Ellen wrinkled her brow in confusion. 

“Prepare?” 

“Ah, yes. The situation has changed. No—it’s strange to say it like this, but apparently it will be changing from now on.” 

Westcott continued on like an excited child. 

“Fuhahahahahahaha. Who could ever think that it would be like this? I’m truly lucky after all. I never would have thought that having the first Demon King in my hands, <Beelzebub>, would lead to this fateful arrangement.” 

“Ike……? What are you talking about? What is this preparation?” 

As Ellen asked, Westcott answered back with a thin smile. 

“The magic powered furnace. And I also need the accumulation charm.” 

“……!?” 

Hearing what Westcott had said, Ellen unexpectedly choked. 

But that was understandable. After all, the things that Westcott just mentioned existed for the purpose of preforming that. 

“What do you mean, Ike? What the hell happened?” 

As Ellen asked in confusion, Westcott kept his smile undisturbed. 

“It’s not what happened. But rather what’s going to happen next. 

—Come, Ellen. Let us change the future.” 

“Yah……this is my first professional massage. It’s a pleasing feeling.” 

“Ah, yes. The stiffness of the shoulders feels lighter. The sake manj? sold near the hotel also tastes so good. I didn’t think steaming would cause such a big difference in taste.” 

“That’s right! Tohka and the others would be happy if we bring some to them.” 

“Fu……shouldn’t today be kept a secret from the Spirits?” 

“Ah……that’s right.” 

Listening to what Reine had said, Shidou let out an awkward laugh—but then continued with an “ah” exclamation as if noticing something. 

“Reine-san, there are steps here, so please be careful.” 

“……Un, thank you for the reminder.” 

Heeding Shidou’s warning, Reine sharply lifted her legs, verifying the condition of the ground before landing her feet and resuming their walk 

While such caution may seem overly excessive, it was also to be expected given their current situation. 

Since right now Reine had closed her eyes and relied on Shidou’s hand as a guide. 

That’s right. After taking a dip in the open-air bath and enjoying the various facilities in the hotel, Reine was now being guide to the place that Shidou wanted to show her. 

“……Speaking of which, what did you want to show me? It feels that we’ve been walking for a while now.” 

“You’ll recognize it once you see it……but I think you’ll be excited for it.” 

“……Hmm, then I’m looking forward to it.” 

Reine made a small nod as she continued to walk while relying on Shidou’s hand. 

From this sensation, Reine remembered a nostalgic feeling. 

Having something to show her and requesting her to close her eyes for a while—this request was exactly the same as from thirty years ago during Mio’s first date with Shinji. 

Was the memory of Shinji influencing Shidou’s personality? Or since Shidou was just like Shinji, it was reasonable having the same idea? When Shidou made this request, despite not displaying it on her face, it was very shocking for her. 

Thinking back—today had been one surprise from another. 

Last night, when remembering how today’s events began with Shidou’s sudden invitation to a date, the idea had passed through Reine’s mind. 

While suddenly invited to a date, it was unexpected that their destination was a ryokan, and even more surprising that Shidou wanted to hear stories about her past. 

Perhaps there was a change in Shidou’s mental state. Or he wanted to eliminate the usual doubts and desires plaguing himself before the upcoming battle against DEM. 

If that was the reason was the former, then the memory of Shinji sleeping within Shidou may be the cause. 

The powers of many Sephira Crystals were already inside his body. Leaving behind only, Nia’s Sephira Crystal which was stolen by Isaac Westcott and Tokisaki Kurumi’s. Indeed, when Shidou’s reiryoku went rampant, the memories of Shinji appeared on the surface level for just a moment. 

If that was the case, then the reason was simple. Just as Mio couldn’t forget about Shinji, Shinji was destined to always fall in love with Mio. It was only natural that such a result was achieved. 

However, if that was not the reason. 

That is to say, in the latter case—if Shidou had been interested in Reine since the beginning, Reine couldn’t help but feel uneasy. 

—Itsuka Shidou was a provisional personality that would one day become Takamiya Shinji. 

—Murasame Reine was a temporary disguise for Takamiya Mio. 

In other words, this was rendezvous between mutual counterfeits. 

Even though this moment was pleasant, it was obvious that there was no happy ending ahead. 

Since Shidou’s personality will be completely removed after he gained all of the power. 

And putting this into practice—would be unprecedented for Reine. 

“Reine-san.” 

“—” 

Just as Reine was pondering in silence, Shidou’s voice interrupted her thoughts. 

For a moment, she thought that her thoughts had leaked out to Shidou—but that wasn’t it. The subsequent words quickly spread to her ear. 

“We’re here now. It’s fine to open your eyes.” 

“……Un—” 

It seemed that they have finally arrived at their destination. Reine slowly opened her eyes. 

And then— 

For a moment, she was rendered speechless. 

She was taken aback by the magnificent scene spread before her eyes. 

The first thing that catches the eye was the inexhaustible horizon and the sunlight sparkling against the watery surface. 

An elegant melody was played as the white sand accompanied the steady tide. 

The sound of seagulls. The aroma of the beach shore. Considering her sense of sight and smell were not hindered, she should have been able to infer it from that alone. But perhaps she was left unaware due to being too focused in her thoughts. As a result, everything information constructing this beautiful scenery struck Reine’s senses all at once. 

—The ocean. 

That’s right. Reine and Shidou were now standing at a location overlooking the coastline. Looking at the sights around the ryokan, it looked to be in the mountainside, but the backside apparently seemed to be connected to the coast. 

However—that wasn’t all that surprised Reine. 

“……” 

Goosebumps trembled against her skin the moment she realized that fact. 

No doubt. It was impossible to be a mistake. 

The place the two of them were now was not just the coast— 

It was the same shore that Shinji had brought Mio thirty years ago. 

Thump. Thump. His heartbeat was at a violent rhythm. The fierce agitation of his chest almost gave the illusion of his entire body shaking. Blood was circulating through his body at a higher speed and his body temperature began to elevate. 

But all of this was understandable. 

After all, Shidou right now—had just brought Reine to the same ocean from Mio’s memories. 

This was undoubtedly a double-edged sword. Showing her this ocean view would definitely warrant suspicion of Shidou holding Shin’s memories. 

No, not only that. If she realized that Shidou had traveled back from the future, then everything would fall apart at that moment. In fact, when deciding upon the location for the date, this factor had been the most divisive point. 

But—even so, Shidou still choose this place. 

This date was for the purpose of sealing Reine’s reiryoku. 

In other words, he would only be victorious if he succeeded in surpassing Shinji’s position in Reine’s heart. 

Of course, it may seem suicidal to bring Reine to a place involving her memories of Shinji. Such an opinion was brought forward during the meeting with the Spirits. 

However, Shidou thought differently. 

If he escaped from the most important memory in her heart, then there was no way that Shidou could ever surpass Shinji. 

No—saying surpass would be inappropriate. 

Undoubtedly, no matter what Shidou did, the tide from thirty years ago would never fade away from her heart. 

Therefore, Shidou must accompany together with Shinji’s existence in order to make Reine fall in love. 

“…………” 

This was a gamble where a single mistake could risk everything collapsing. 

However, Shidou firmly believed that this was the only way to ensure that everyone survived. 

Mio loves Shinji. That was impossibly to deny. Her feelings of love in this world were like a raging fire that was difficult for others to even catch glimpse of. 

Even so, the time that Reine had shared with Shidou and the Spirits—none of that was false. 

“…………” 

As Reine slowly turned from looking at the coast to him, Shidou felt so nervous that it seemed his insides were contorting into a ball. 

“……Shin, where is this?” 

However, Reine’s tone was still very calm. 

He could only imagine what was going through her mind at this moment. But for now, it seemed that she had accepted this scenery for the time being. Despite secretly feeling relieved at this, Shidou replied back while paying attention not to let too much emotion show on his face. 

“Yes. This is the place that I wanted to show Reine-san. —Isn’t it pretty?” 

“……Ah, it’s beautiful……very much so.” 

Looking back at the coastline, Reine replied with deep emotion. 

Shidou nodded back as he reached out to her hand once again. 

“Do you want to walk a little?” 

“……Ah, gladly.” 

Reine expressed a faint smile as she took Shidou’s hand. 

“……Un, really—it’s a beautiful place. It may sound cliché, but it feels like my heart is being washed away.” 

“Haha, you’re exaggerating too much. But more than anything, I’m glad you like it.” 

“……But why did you invite me here?” 

“Reine-san may like this place, that’s what my instincts told myself.” 

“……If that’s the case, then your intuition is very sharp.” 

The two them conversed while making gentle steps walking along the shore. 

The ocean she once seen with Shinji. 

Even in a day full of surprises, this ranked number one among everything. 

—Coincidence? Inevitable? Was it because of Shinji’s lingering memories? No, since Shidou was just like Shinji, it shouldn’t be too surprising—these various speculations ran through Reine’s mind. 

However, Reine quickly realized that these thoughts shouldn’t be spoken right now. 

For a while, Reine continued to talk with Shidou while leaving footprints on the sandy beach. 

The contents of the conversation were unremarkable. The topic quickly changed from the ocean, school, tomorrow, Kotori being overworked, Kannazuki should work a little harder, the new limited cream puff from La Pucelle in front of the station, and Shidou promising that he absolutely won’t die tomorrow……and etc. Really, the contents were nothing to write home about. 

But—this made Reine feel comfortable. 

To speak of extremes, it didn’t matter what was the topic of the conversation. 

Exchanging words while walking together on this ocean of memories. 

Just that alone—was enough. 

As time passed, the sun that once illuminated the ocean began to sink into the horizon, as the colors of the evening began to coat the surroundings. 

Reine and Shidou sat by the bank of the shore while listening to the surging waves of the tide. 

“……Shin.” 

“Yes.” 

“……Hmm, what was I going to say?” 

“Haha……what happened?” 

As Shidou laughed, Reine gently raised the corners of her lips. 

The sound of the refreshing waves and the gentle cold breeze. But none of that compared to the warmth felt from Shidou’s hand. And also—that certain heartbeat. 

From that, Reine felt a mysterious feeling. 

How to explain it? Her mind began to blur as it became more difficult to move her limbs. But it was definitely not a bad feeling. It was so comfortable being embraced by that warm hand that her consciousness gradually began to dissolve. 

“……Hmm……” 

As she noticed it was the first time in thirty years that she began to doze off, Reine’s consciousness sank into the darkness. 

“……Reine-san?” 

Shidou let out a startled voice as he found Reine unexpectedly leaning against his shoulder. 

From the looks of it, Reine had closed her eyes while lightly breathing. It seemed that she had fallen asleep. 

Well, it was not wonder she was like this. After all, she had been accompanying him throughout the entire day since early morning. Presumably, it must have been very tiring. 

“How rare, I’d never imagine Reine to fall asleep in public.” 

“Is that so?” 

Surprised by Kotori’s voice being suddenly heard through the communicator, Shidou lowered his volume in order to not wake up Reine. 

However, truth be told, this was the first time Shidou had seen Reine asleep as well. Perhaps they were witnessing an extremely rare sight. 

“But it’s a pity. We’d have finally reached the sealable threshold. It would be a great opportunity for a kiss.” 

“Hey……even if that’s the case, you can’t kiss someone who is asleep. It’s the sort of thing that has to be agreed by both parties, right?” 

“Hey, that’s not every nice to Sleeping Beauty. Girls have longing to you know. —Of course, it all depends on the partner in question here.” 

Kotori retorted back in half-joking manner. Although he couldn’t see her, there was the distinct impression of her shrugging her shoulders and twirling the Chupa Chups stick in her mouth. 

Between this ongoing banter, Shidou felt a slight nudge from his shoulder. It seemed that Reine had woken up as she gently lifted up her head. 

“Good morning, Reine-san.” 

“…………,………” 

Being greeted awake by Shidou, Reine blinked several times to shake of the drowsiness. 

After a few seconds, she widened her eyes after finally sorting out the situation. 

“……Now way, just now I—” 

“Yes. You were sleep. ……Even though I said that, it was only a little just for about 5 minutes.” 

“…………” 

Listening to what Shidou had said, Reine began to check her forehead and checks after falling silent for a while. —As if confirm if there were traces of fears and sweat. 

“Reine-san……?” 

“…………………” 

As Shidou tilted his head in curiosity over this, Reine breathed out a small sigh. 

And then, her breathing continued to gradually get heavier. 

“……Fufu, hahahahaha……” 

It was—the sound of laughter. 

This wasn’t unusual of itself. When people feel amused, cheerful, happy—or even bashful, it would be natural to use this to express their emotions. 

However, after hearing this, Shidou could only stare blankly at the sight. 

The reason was simple. So far, Shidou had never heard Reine laugh before. 

The same was true for Kotori and the others. From the other side of the communicator, he could hear the sounds of a breathtaking sigh. 

“……Like this, I actually fell asleep. Haha……I see, this is really convincing……” 

Reine didn’t seem to notice Shidou’s reaction—no; it was more like she couldn’t stop laughing. As she continued to laugh, she placed her hand against Shidou’s shoulder. 

“……I have to thank you. I haven’t slept so peacefully in such a long time. It seems that your shoulders are really comfortable.” 

Reine spoke softly with a gentle smile. 

Shidou narrowed his breath. Reine’s beauty already had a far-reaching influence. When coupled with a bit of tenderness, it instantly reached a breathtaking charm. 

Then, at the next moment— 

“……! Shidou!” 

Kotori’s voice, marked by both excitement and fretfulness, rang through to his eardrum. 

“There’s a positive change in Reine’s mental state as well as a favorability response! Now is the time!” 

“……!” 

Listening to what Kotori had said, Shidou swayed his brow upward in alarm. 

He thought that no chance would come decided at this timing. But it seemed exposing her sleeping state to someone else had significant meaning for Reine. 

However, being impatient now would be taboo. Just because he had reached the sealable threshold, pressing forcibly forward would only incur a sharp decline in mood afterwards. 

Then, what he needed to do now— 

“…………” 

While thinking of this, Shidou let out a sudden sigh. 

Yes, so far it had only been the pre-preparation stage. Shidou had not clearly conveyed his intentions to Reine yet. 

“—Reine-san.” 

Shidou quietly called out her name. Having regained her calm demeanor, she likely noticed the change in atmosphere as she looked back him. 

“……Un, what’s wrong, you suddenly look more solemn.” 

“No……it’s about when we were in the open-air bath.” 

“……Ah, rest assured, I’ll keep it secret from everyone.” 

“That’s not it……no, I would want you to keep it a secret……” 

Shidou scratched his face as he tried to regain his momentum. 

“The story of—the person Reine-san liked.” 

“…………What about then?” 

Reine tersely replied back after a momentary pause. 

“Shidou then looked directly at Reine’s eyes with a determined look. 

“—So, is it hopeless?” 

“…………” 

Hearing what Shidou said, Reine responded back with silence. 

But her eyes did not reveal either rejection or disgust. 

Among there was hesitation and confusion. And also a little bit of—guilt. 

Shidou continued to rush forward with this momentum in hand. 

“I don’t expect to replace or let you forget about that person. But……I want to be myself, in a different way from that person; to become someone who can cherish Reine-san……is that alright?” 

“…………” 

Reine was left undecided towards this. 

However, even after placing his hand on her shoulder, it didn’t seem like she would refuse. 

“Reine-san—” 

“……Shin. I—” 

Reine was just about to say something. 

But as Shidou’s face suddenly approached, she lessened her lips and closed her eyes. 

Their breathing became in sync. 

The sounds of each other’s heartbeats were clearly audible in each other’s ears. 

—The two lips touched. 

By the ocean colored by the burning sunset. 

Shidou and Reine—exchanged the kiss that Shinji and Mio couldn’t thirty years ago. 

“—We did it!” 

One the bridge while staring at the main monitor, Kotori could help but unintentionally stretch out a victory pose. 

On the display, there was an image of Shidou and Reine hugging and kissing under the sunset. It looked like a scene right out of a movie. 

Just like Kotori, the Spirits that saw this scene displayed a variety of different response. Tohka, Mukuro, and Yuzuru looked on while completely engrossed, Kaguya and Natsumi tried to look away, Yoshino was looking on between the opening made by her fingers covering her eyes, Origami stared expressionlessly, and Miku and Nia let out an incessant squeal— 

Although the responses different from person to person, the Spirits were all told beforehand that wanting to stay on the bridge to support Shidou would mean perhaps watching a scene of the two of them kissing. Thanks to this, none of the Spirits reacted in an extremely flustered state. ……No well, Nia and Miku were acting flustered in another sense. 

Anyway, the kiss was a success. Kotori looked at the numerical values at the edge of the screen. The likability value was in the sealable area. With this condition met, sealing Reine’s reiryoku could be— 

“……!? Commander!” 

But at that moment. 

Accompanied by a loud alarm, the crew member’s voice shook Kotori’s eardrums. 

It felt like the illusion of time standing still. A supreme euphoria flooded his mind. The memory of Shinji within his heart naturally caused him to place more strength in holding onto Reine’s shoulders. 

Long. Too Long. It took too much time in order to hug Mio this way. 

Shidou struggled to suppress such burning emotions. He was not Takamiya Shinji, but Itsuka Shidou. The longing coming from Shinji was so strong that if he didn’t recognize it then, it would have completely overtaken his consciousness. 

Eventually, as their lips touched each other, the warm feeling flowing into Shidou’s body— 

“—” 

—It didn’t come. 

“……” 

Shidou held his breath. 

Certainly, he had kissed Reine. There was also the feeling of a path being established. 

However, when remembering the feeling of a Spirit’s reiryoku being sealed, the flow of power being transferred did not occur. 

—Why? While asking this to himself, the procedure shouldn’t have been wrong. There wasn’t an insufficient amount of positive favorability. Sure enough, was it because Shidou was born from the Spirit of Origin that he could seal Reine’s reiryoku. Or was it—” 

“…………” 

As Shidou’s thought process fell into disarray, Reine slowly removed her lips from Shidou. 

And then, while tracing her wet lips with her fingers, she let out her voice. 

“……I see. You—have you seen the future?” 

“—!?’ 

“Wha—” 

Reine’s words caused his shoulders to tremble. At the same time, the horror in Kotori’s voice echoed through his skull. 

“……What are you surprised about? It’s not the first time that memories have been shared through the pathway.” 

As she spoke, Reine didn’t deride or scold Shidou. Instead, she gently touched Shidou’s head. 

“……The many mysterious of today have finally been solved. ……Ah, no perhaps I’d already noticed it through the vagueness. I just didn’t want to understand. Because I was very happy when you invited me on a date.” 

Reine continued to whisper to his ear in a gentle tone. 

“……I really enjoyed myself, even enough to forget the painful past for a bit. 

—But, dreams are things that will eventually wake up. Isn’t that right—Shidou?”