Sousetsuka

Chapter 36

Book 3




　We arrived early morning of the island's local time.
　That's weird... we left Floating City at noon... then we went past the International Date Line.... Nope, I can't wrap my head around it.

"It's my first time experiencing this phenomenon as well. I did not realize how confusing it is to feel the difference between time zones when you move over a long distance so quickly...."
"It really is... Anyhow, we gotta reset our clocks for now."

　The island we disembarked on is about as large as Japan's Ishigaki island.
　It mainly houses buildings for an international research facility that often invites a huge amount of people to test their research, which is one of the goal for this boot camp.

"Well then, I have to go and attend the staff meeting. Let us meet up at the lodging later."
"Okay. See you later."

　We saw Ixia-san off and went to our assigned hotel.
　They all looked tired likely from jet-lag... But we probably have to bear it in until nighttime... Gotta reset our inner clock if we want to attend the` boot camp right.



　Each school is given a whole floor of a lodging building. Jen-sensei is briefing us in a lounge area in the main building right now.

"Well done enduring the long trip guys. It's six in the morning here and there will be a gathering at five in the evening. The boot camp will start for real the day after tomorrow to give your body time to adapt."

　That's a relief honestly. Starting tomorrow would be tough. It's my first time crossing over the IDL.

"The three main training menus in this boot camp will be the combat training held inside a cutting edge Environment Reproduction field, a rally held at the outdoor practice field and the sparring matches against top league battlers. You may not engage in a personal fight unless it is a formal match."

　Environment Reproduction? What's that. And top class battlers huh... Wonder what they're like.
　When I asked her for detail, she said, 'It can make your body heavier and stuff like that.' Sensei you should've gathered more info on that kind of things.
　It's that maybe? The thing that came up in a certain tale about gathering seven balls... A facility that can alter gravity.
　While I was lost in thought, Kaname raised his hand...

"Jen-sensei. Is it true that the pro battler, 'Rouhi Kiryuu' is attending the boot camp this time?"

　All the students here including Ichinose-san broke into a rustle when that name came out of his mouth.
　Who that. I'm not surprised about all the things I don't know about this world anymore.

"You sure know your stuff. Yes, that's true. But you'd better not have the bright idea of getting him be your personal instructor. Just think yourself lucky if you got the chance to engage in a few matches with the guy."
"Yup, I'd be satisfied if I could catch a glimpse."

　Kaname looks excited. Afterward, we introduced ourselves to one another.
　Sure enough, Class S students looked obviously displeased when us, Class SS got our turns.

"Why am I dead last again."
"It just happens, I tell you. Okay, that's enough introductions. You have free time until evening. Be sure you don't sleep too long or else you'd have a hard time tomorrow."

　I immediately went and secured Kaname.

"Hey so, is that Rouhi guy famous?"
"Huh, you don't know him Yuuki? He's said to be the world's strongest battler in modern time. A Chinese-American who doesn't belong to any team, instead specializing in individual games. He uses a different weapon in every match yet a master of every one of them. He's apt to be called the strongest player."
"Hee! So you're telling me we could see him fight here."
"Yea, I look forward to it as well. Once in the past, he paid a visit to our family dojo. The assistant instructor at the time, my elder brother could barely hold a candle to him. Fumu... I wonder how far could I hold out against him now."

　Ichinose-san seemed so excited she even joined our conversation midway. That sounds fun.
　Now that we're all briefed up, I'm making my way to the west building that houses staff member lodging and facility including the infirmary where Ixia-san is in charge of. Ichinose-san and Kaname are following me for some reason.

"I feel like I would doze off if I am left to my own device. Do you mind?"
"Same here. Sit down and I bet I'd wander into dreamland."
"Hahaha... Can't say I'm not super sleepy myself. West should be... over there."

　I immediately relied on a modern gadget for directions. I mean they got a bar code for the map app printed on the brochure you know. Man, this facility's huge.



　At the reception hall of the west building, they're already cleaning up the reception hall. According to a staff member, the briefing was over already and each school body had left for their assigned facility.

"Ah, this mark is our infirmary. wonder if Ixia-san's in there."
"I see, it's close by the training field. No wonder the infirmaries are all here."

　I'm seeing plenty of students from other schools walking around.
　I guess they'd rather do some activities than lose to the sleepiness.
　As we were about to reach the infirmary around the corner, Ixia-san's voice could be heard.

"Don't you understand a word I said? It's one thing if you are injured from training but I shall not administer medicine for that reason. Please consult to the nurse in charge of your school."
"Eeh, what's the big deal? Our nurse's a grandma y'know. Which school are you from onee-san? Won't you make me some dodgy drug? A strong sleeping drug, that kinda stuff, y'know?"
"I refuse. Please don't act spoiled just because you're a child. Leave."
"Hnn... Nope. Let's get all chummy. Why don't you sing me a lullaby in my room."

　Whoa whoa, which host club didja haul your ass from.
　Guy's got the typical tanned skin and bleached blond hair as he's occupying the space in front of Ixia-san's infirmary.
　We're told not to engage in a personal fight outside matches, but I dunno about this one. Will I get arrested if I off this guy, I wonder.

"...Good grief, calm yourself now. I shall handle this."
"Yup, please. Yuuki-kun, cool your jet, okay."
"OKOK Kaname. Hey, quit tickling my armpits."

　Ichinose-san walks up to the playboy.

"Excuse me, could you refrain from making a scene in our infirmary. The nurse is troubled. Perhaps I should deem this as an attempt to obstruct Schwein School? I see that you're... a student of GraSchool Asia Branch. I will get in touch with the instructor in charge."
"Oh, you're a cutie! You tellin' me you're a Scwhein student? Wanna have a chat in this infirmary?"
"I will not. The exit is over there."
"...Fine fine, I'm leaving. 'Scuuse me ladies..."

　Kaname went in as he left, followed by me. We closed the door behind us and contacted that guy's school.
　Someone yelled outside then someone else came by and took the guy away.

"Thank you for your aid. I was unsure how to treat students who won't listen."
"Ixia-san, I think you can just knock those types out and throw them outside."
"Sasahara-kun, no that won't do. Let's see, there is no telling what would someone like that do when you're alone with them. You should go to a public place and consult with someone."

　Personally, I'd go for the balls and make him undergo sex change.
　Aah, hope I could get a chance to spar with him and slaughter him in a convenient spell formula breakdown accident."

"...Your inner voice is leaking, Yuuki-kun."
"Oops."
"Sasahara-kun... I get where you're coming from, but please try not to cause trouble, okay?"
"Fumu. Yuuki, are you in a bad mood because you're feeling drowsy? How about we have tea together to improve that. Would you two care to join as well?"
"Ah, I'd be glad to."
"Yes, I would like to. Sasahara-kun, you should compose yourself."

　Oh I am calm and composed. I just wanna beat him half to death when I bump into the guy later.



　Someone knocked on the infirmary door while we were relaxing and enjoying a not-afternoon tea time.
　We opened the door to find a male student from Class S with a swelled up face.

"This is... It's from a blunt force trauma. I believe this was done by another individual. Am I wrong?"
"...No you're not."
"Oy oy, we're not allowed to get into personal fight y'know... What happened."
"You guys are Class SS... What did you all do? A student from another school came to mess with us out of nowhere. Just cause we're Scwhein School. Dammit... Which school is that guy from."
"For reference, was it a tanned blond guy that gives off a bad vibe?"
"That's the guy. Do you know him?"

　We talked about what happened earlier and apologized because we might have been the cause.

"...You guys are not to blame. That guy was messing with a girl from our class. I tried to stop him and got a beating instead... I can't believe there's someone out there who'd so easily resort to violence."
"Well, I agree on that. We'll report this to Jen-sensei."

　Looks like we're gonna have a bigger problem than an infighting between Scwhein students.





　We went to talk with Jen-sensei and found out about something disturbing. The schoolgirl that guy messed with is going back to Japan tonight... What did he do.

"And, he got off scot-free?"

　For some reason, Jen-sensei is talking to me about this privately.

"...Yea. The victim student won't say a word about it... Hey, Sasahara, if you ever get a chance to have a mock battle with that guy... Make sure you don't deal damage that outstrips the Spell Formula capacity and incapacitate him, okay?"
"Hn, got it. That's a hint."
"No, I'm giving you a warning. Even if it was an accident, my duty would oblige me to fault you. I might get a bit angry. Don't do it, you hear me."
"Oh yeah, I know I get it. Boy... there sure are all kinds of students."
"That school's all about merit.  Practical test reulst is everything while theoretical and interview results take a backseat. That kind of humans will naturally find their way in."

　Putting aside the reason why she went out of her way to bring that up in my private room, I'll go ahead and keep her warning in mind. Jen-sensei... She's in a foul mood.

"Sasahara. You've got... some sort of connection with Chairwoman, don't you?"
"No?"
"That's why she often summoned you."
"You're prying now, Sensei. I get how you feel, but this discussion is over."
"Aa, my bad... Dammit, I wanna kill that brat for real. She's a student under my care in this boot camp... If only I'd stayed with her..."

　She took the word out of my mouth, I couldn't bring myself to join the gathering.
　I had dinner together with Ixia-san in the hotel's restaurant.

<TLN: Catch the latest updates and edits at Sousetsuka .com >

　Day two. We're given another free time today. Yesterday I couldn't sleep until nighttime due to what happened and managed to reschedule my waking cycle.
　We're allowed to engage in outdoor training for students like me so here I am outside.
　As expected of Hawaii, the sky is blue, the sun is dazzling and the greenery around the outdoor training field feels so refreshing.

"Seems like you're doing just fine, Ichinose-san"
"Yes, I have quickly adapted to the time difference. As for Kaname-kun..."
"Kaname is still in dreamland in his room. Looks like he couldn't get a wink of sleep."
"Hm, I see. But... you appear to be in high spirit today, Sasahara-kun."
"Hn, well yeah. That piece of shit is here too, would be nice if I could get a match in."

　Yep. That piece of shit had already made his move on the girls in the training field.
　Another student tried to stop him and fought him in a match but he got badly beaten instead.

"He's strong. Is that an Otherside Move?"
"It is. The man has talent and competency yet look at the way he acts. How deplorable."
"Maybe he's a son of some bigshot? Isn't it weird how they didn't even give him a warning?"
"Hn, I suppose. In that case, I'll go set up bait. Sasahara-kun, the rest is in your hands."
"Got it."

　If I were to interpret Jen-sensei's word last night, she wanted me to get rid of that guy.
　Damage gets converted to stamina consumption, huh. Then I'm just gonna knock him out before he could give up. Then I'll keep attacking like I'm none the wiser.
　That piece of shit readily bit on Ichinose-san's bait it seems.
　They talked a bit before coming this way.
　Once they got here--

"Hee, this twerp is your classmate? You're gonna fight me if I beat him up, yeah?"
"Yeah. You know about me, do you not? I cannot accept a duel so readily. This will serve as a test."
"Nice. Your dojo wouldn't let me in, see. I'mma gonna get back at them by doing their daughter in. You gotta have a lil' talk with me at the hotel tonight if I win, no escape."
"Eh, what? That's the reason for my fight?" 
"Yeah. It works, does it not?"

　I was imagining I'd butt in when he's harassing Ichinose-san and get into a fight! Then again, I can't imagine Ichinose-san taking a harassment lying down. She's too gallant for that.

"Get over here, twerp."
"Cool it, primate. I'mma crush your balls to smithereens you ain't ever getting cocky again. Don't even think ya gonna get outta this with all yer limbs intact. Say yer' goodbye to social media presence cuz your sorry weeping faces are gonna get plastered all over the net, ain't no more walking around in peace. Yer gonna lose so bad your parent gonna give you up."
"Wha!?"
"Sasahara-kun!?"

　The return of flaming player. It's been so long since I spewed foul words, it's refreshing.
　I moved into the field and readied my weapon device before he could cut me down in that spot.
　This blond primate lunged at me before the start signal was even given.
　His weapon is a hammer-type device. Judging from his match earlier, he could swing that around as fast as a one-handed sword. I bet he's the same type as me, a Physical Boost specialist.
　He's yelling out stuff while rushing here, but this is not a match.

"It's an execution."

　I unleashed 'Gale Gash' right away, sapping away his stamina, prompting him to fall down.
　I cut him up to stop his falling and did another 'Gale Gash' in the air.
　Using more of that move would be a waste of mana, so I shot countless Wind Blades in the air and added seven quickdraw slashes as he fell his way back to the ground. That was when the sound of something breaking resounded around me.

"Dash!"

　I acted like I didn't notice that as I unleashed a dash slash. The sensation in my hand felt different as I returned my katana into its sheath.

"Stop! What happened here! The field's spell formula is broken!"
"Carry the student! There doesn't seem... to be any injury but his mana might have been damaged."

　Gotta be the lifeguards. Several grown ups came to check on the guy before quickly carrying him away on a stretcher.
　But the moment those lifeguards had their attention diverted, the students present here started taking pictures of the knocked out guy with their smart terminals. Man, how many people did you offend anyway.

"You, come with us. Let's hear the circumstances."
"Yes, I understand."
"Sasahara-kun... You overdid it. There is a limit to everything."
"Uh... I had no idea these spell formulas could break."

　They brought me to a facility where I was supposed to give my excuse to the person in charge.



"I would have never guessed that one attack was all it took to finish the match. I thought only the best students got selected in this boot camp... I should have held back."
"And you're saying that you didn't realize that he had fainted when you continued your attack?"
"Yes. He was gripping his device hard so I thought for sure it was a feint to stage a counterattack, hence I didn't let up. From my understanding, he managed to defeat many students before his match with me so I didn't think that was enough... Apparently, that was a miscalculation on my part."

　The man in charge is unexpectedly young but he's already got some gray hair among the blond strands.
　He's not casting suspicion with his eyes, merely asking me the course of event to which I calmly reply.

"We have found that there's no inconsistency in your testimony. That student did have record on numerous victorious. However... Was your match with him truly a coincidence? He had a little feud with students from your school yesterday."
"Ah, something to do with Class S yeah. But I don't really talk with that class, so I'm in the dark about that... More importantly, if the spell formula could get broken in the middle of a match, does that mean our class can't go all out here? If that's true, then I don't think I can train here. I should head back."
"No... That was our mistake. We set the parameters lightly because we didn't think students would have a serious match today. We won't blame you on the fact that you dealt damage to your opponent. I should have mentioned that sooner."
"Is that so, that's a relief. That was such a shock. I thought it'd make me a murderer."
"Yeah, you have our apologies. Fortunately his life is not in danger. But I'm not sure if he can continue this boot camp."
"Really... I wronged him..."

　I said the lie with a bare face. The man wouldn't tell me the detail but judging from how hesitant he is I'm guessing the truth would come as a shock to a student like me.
　In other word, the injury was serious.
　I thought from the bottom of my heart. 'Ah, wish he had died.'

"! What's this, did they set the AC temp too low? It's all clear now, you're free to leave. However... We can't leave you unpunished if only for appearance's sake. I believe the instructor in charge will press to have you under house arrest. That'd make things easier on your guilty conscience as well, no? Worry not, we won't make you waste your time in this boot camp. We'll let you borrow a new VR device still in development. Train with the device and write a report on its use. That will be your punishment."
"Oh... Isn't that too much of a preferential treatment? Are you sure... It's supposed to be a house arrest."
"Hahaha... Then, you could do us a favor and not spread the word about the spell formula breaking, perhaps? Especially to school authorities."
"...I understand."

　I see. Of course they'd rather keep up the face of an entire organization over a single student. Also, this is supposed to be a punishment but I'm super intrigued by that VR device.
　In a private room? Does that mean... it's a portable VR device? Isn't that pretty much a game console?
　At any rate, I got off virtually scot-free.



"...Sasahara, welcome back."
"I'm back Jen-sensei. They put me under house arrest."
"Yes, you can't leave your room for three days... You're such an outstanding student. I pretty much instilled you. And now you'd waste this rare opportunity to train in a boot camp."
"Actually no. They're lending me the newest equipment, you see. I'll be training in my room and write a report on it. That's my punishment."

　Jen-sensei was waiting for me with a gloomy look inside my room.

"I'm not fit to be an educator. I have a violent temper, am sloven, have favorites, and all that. I'm sorry, Sasahara. I should've done that myself."
"But I love people like you, Sensei. If it were up to me, I'd take care of that PoS in some dark alley. Guy dared to woo someone's guardian. Besides this house arrest is a reward to me. Latest VR device? I get to play around with a new tech that's yet to be even made public all for myself, it's the best."
"...Sasahara, tell me when you wanna eat something while you're in there. I'm gonna bring 'em to you. Call me if you feel lonely, okay?"
"There you go again treating me like a kid. I'd be fine I swear. You're gonna get busy starting tomorrow right, Sensei? Put your back into it."

　This woman might really be unfit to be an educator.
　She's more like a children gang boss, a student council president or an elder sister you can rely on.
　Besides, it was entirely on me for interpreting her word that way.
　Well even if she meant that... I ultimately acted on it.
　In fact, I might erase that guy for real if she never brought up that idea.

"You see, Sensei. I'm not actually that good of a kid you all think I am. If Sensei never talked to me that night... I might have killed that guy for real."

　I won't just sit back if anyone badmouth my family or those related to family.
　Single parent, no parent, raised by grandparents, and finally alone.
　Children are cruel. They didn't stop to think when they said stuff like, 'his parents must have abandoned him', or 'his father probably committed suicide'.
　But I made them all shut up. Every single of them until it became a non issue.

"No harm no foul on you, Sensei okay? Don't concern yourself over it."
"...Okay. I'll inform Ichinose and Kaname on this matter at least. See you around in three days."

　Man... It's been so long since I went wild. I need some sugar intakes.





　Afterward, I holed myself up in the room for three days straight training with VR.
　I had to install the devices on eight spots including on the ceilings and on the ground, put a curtain on the window to block light and once the room was pitch black, turning the device would form a wireframe where I could start my training.
　　I could then shoot around and cast magic but it's all optical illusion.
　The room turns back into normal once I turn off the VR device. I get a slight vertigo afterward, but that's all.
　Honestly, it didn't feel like a house arrest at all and more like a man cave with a game console thanks to this VR device.

"I'm returning this. I've written a list of things I wish to be improved for the maker in this memory card. Please have a look."
"Yes, thank you. I'll send them over to the research group. You have our gratitude for your cooperation."

　Once I gave a box with the VR device to a woman in white robe, Kaname came over.

"I guess I should say, good job in here? So Yuuki-kun, how does the air outside feel after so long?"
"Hm, I think I'm starting to miss a different menu from the room service ones. I'm so done with pizzas and hamburgers."
"I've been having those all this time too, but I dunno if I'll ever get tired of them. I love that stuff."
"I mean you're a glutton, Kaname."

　I asked Kaname about the training they had so far in the past three days as we made our way to the dining room.
　They have all sorts of menus here probably because people from all over the world come here.
　I used this chance to order real Chinese food before resuming my conversation with Kaname.

"Hee...! Then we're gonna have mixed training with those battlers from today on."
"Yep. Honestly, the training up until yesterday was only useful for non Scwhein Students. Practicing with Arariel and Koune-san would have been far more fruitful for us. The majority of Schwein students ended up giving advice too."
"Well... I can imagine. But, doesn't Shousuke put up a good fight?
"He does yeah. There were a few other students as strong. Can't they use a stricter selection on these students?"
"Agreed. I bet there's plenty of troublemakers besides that man."
"There are yeah. But every school started doing crackdowns on their students after that incident."

　That's good news. I think interviews are a necessary process in some way.
　Not like I'm one to talk though.

"Let's go to the indoor training field once you're done. Today they have pro battlers as instructors. There's a lot of them but I want to have a match with Player Rouhi if I get the chance. I bet there's gonna be a long queue, I wanna get there quick."
"Aye aye. You look real restless, Kaname. That's rare."
"Fufu, sure am. Now finish that chili sauce shrimp quick, will you."
"Hey, hey no pushing..."

　I mean this shrimp is way too good. It's gigantic... and crispy.



　The indoor training field is about the scale of a dome stadium, around half of all boot camp students are here.
　Looks like plenty of students prefer to train outside... Guess they're not interested in battlers?
　I'm curious about top league battlers, so here I am. Even Kaname insisted on me going.
　Speaking of which, Chief Nishida's assistant, Sakata-san or something? I think he was a former battler.

"Whoa, I see both active battlers and former battlers who joined Underworld Survey teams here. I can't believe this boot camp managed to gather so many of them."
"Student aside, are you saying that they've got both the connections and the capital to bring these people here?"
"Un. Who cares about students."
"You better keep that to yourself."

　One man walked up and acted as a representative to explain the program.

"You will now engage in training matches. Students who wish to have a match with us may step up but we reserve the right to change them with the next student at any time. You may think that's too strict so feel free to drop the idea that we'll give every one of you personal guidance. Us instructors will stand by at our own field, you may head to the instructor you want."
"Hee, that's quite spartan. So, which one's your favorite, this player Rouhi?"
"That one, over there. The rightmost man. Let's head there, quick."

　It's an Asian man you could mistake for a Japanese man.
　Hm? Huh? He looks somewhat familiar.
　Half of the students here were already crowding toward player Rouhi.
　No surprise everybody got the same idea. Unfortunately we got in the middle of the line.
　Wait... Ichinose-san is way ahead of us in the queue.

"Haha, that's quite a long line. First, let's exchange a blow. Just so you guys know, I'm unsparing. I don't teach students who don't meet my criteria. Let's start... with you."

　No doubt about it, I've seen this fella somewhere before. Where was it again....
　He said, 'Next' while I was lost in thought. Eh? It's over already?

"Hold it! We've only exchanged one blow with our swords!"
"Yup. That's enough. I'm sorry to say but you're not quite ready yet to receive my lesson."
"But!"
"You may leave now. You're next up, okay?"

　He harshly cut off the student before he could finish speaking. 
　But... he's probably telling the truth.

"Next."
"Oh boy, talk about strict... Is this really gonna work."
"Look, the student this time managed to hold out nicely... He got seven hits in."

　True enough, player Rouhi gave some advice to the third student.
　Hm? Isn't that a Class S student of Scwhein School.

"Next."
"That's so nice... hope I could get him to teach me. Wonder how many hits I could get in."
"I mean it's you Kaname-kun, I bet you'll held out pretty long."
"I sure hope so."

　Student after student kept falling out while we were having a chat.
　Ichinose-san finally got her turn.

"Oh Mikoto-kun, long time no see. How's your onii-san doing?"
"I'm glad to see you again, Rouhi-san. My brother has not returned yet since a year ago. He did mention that he was trying to reach the Underworld's depth."
"I see... Well then, take up your sword, Mikoto-kun. Think I'll go with a katana type this time."

　Player Rouhi has been changing his weapon to match the student's weapon he has a match with.
　Looks like he's really able to wield any and all weapons.
　And then... His match with Ichinose-san began.



"Whoaa... That girl's been at it for five straight minutes."
"She said she's from Ichinose Family. She's too awesome, can't believe she's the same age as us."

　Both me and Kaname stayed locked on in Ichinose-san's match while other students were having a commentary.
　Ichinose-san went all out swinging her katana while player Rouhi kept parrying her attacks and countered back.
　Their push-pull dynamic was too exquisite. It's like they're safely dancing with their katanas.

"...Let's stop here. Mikoto-kun, you've gotten stronger. The last time we clashed blades was four years ago. I believe your swings, aim and footwork are already on the same level as mine."
"Thank you very much."
"Your kinetic vision is worthy of praise as well. You must be blessed with excellent sparing partners. Just one thing... you're still lacking in moment-to-moment ad-lib. That slowed down your reaction to my move. That results in excessive stamina usage. You should... let's see, forget about your dojo teaching for the time being. I feel its theory might have been ingrained too deeply in you."
"...Very well. My gratitude for your lesson."

　...He's strong. Same level? That's a lie. The bangle on his wrist. That's the same bangle I got from Chief Nishida that let you switch around limiter level.
　There's no doubt he's not at full power. Otherwise, there's no explaining him looking all fresh even though Ichinose-san is all sweaty and losing her breath.

"...Such a frustrating feeling. You two witnessed that didn't you? That's player Rouhi. The zenith is too far away a journey... I must strive even harder."
"Hmm, but holding on for five minutes is still pretty amazing."
"Haha, is that right. I shall take a rest on the bench... My hands feel numb."

　...Even Ichinose-san turned weak-kneed.
　World's strongest... Wonder how far could I hold out against him with the same limiter level I have at school grounds.
　Before I realized, most of the students lining up were gone probably getting fainthearted after watching Ichinose-san's match.
　Kaname's turn came up.

"Player Rouhi! I'm a huge fan of yours! I'll be in your care!"
"Oh? Aren't you... the amateur champion last year! I watched your match! I'm glad I get the chance to spar with you."
"It's an honor! Let's do this!"

　The off-tone Kaname took up his halberd and his weapon device in both hands. 
　He's gonna go with that style from the get go huh.

"Dual halberd is it, you don't see that often."
"Yes!"

　Their match began.

Previous Chapter 

Chapter 35

Book 3




　It's been four days since Summer Break started. Today is the departure day for the boot camp.
　Us students have gathered in the campus while Ixia-san is currently participating a staff briefing as a temporary instructor with Chief Nishida.

"Isn't that Yuuki-kun's guardian? Is she a staff member?"
"Yeah, she'll help out as a temporary infirmary helper with her sorcery."
"Hou, I knew it. She's an expert in sorcery. I should go and say hello later."
"Ah, me too. I'm Yuuki-kun's friend after all... I am, aren't I?"
"Yeah I think you are. I could call you a friend too, right Ichinose-san?"
"Why the question mark? Of course you are. You're a good friend as well as a rival of mine. Same goes for Kaname."

　Thank goodness, it felt vague since she acts a bit reserved toward me.
　This Boot Camp is joined by three students from Class SS, 10 from Class S, five from Class A and B, and four from Class C and D. 22 people in total.
　I dunno if they couldn't find 30 students wanting to participate or if nobody else met the requirements.
　I'm told that there are students who got enrolled in Scwhein School through connections. Not even Chairwoman could sniff them all out due to the countless schemes and intrigues coiling about this school from many sides.
　The five Class S students who kept messing with me aren't here by the way.
　Rick-kun apparently has gone back home. That is to say, they're all new faces to me. Smells like trouble.

"Alright, you're all here. I'll be in charge of supervising the 22 of you. You probably know me already, I'm Jen. I'm authorized to send you back if you cause a scene. Don't get funny ideas with students from this or other schools."

　I've only recently found out that Jen-sensei has more authority over students than the rest of instructors in this school. Many students come from families this school's average instructors cannot oppose, so not all of them are good orderly people with high morals.
　On that note, apparently Jen-sensei not only has the backing of Akimiya but also comes from a fairly distinguished family in Grandia, so she's got a lot of sway even to those people.
　By the way, there are around 20 students who have been expelled by Summer Break. Honestly, serves them right.

"Alright, let's get on the bus. That'll take us to the airport where we'll be boarding a plane to Hawaii. The flight should last about four hours. We'll get on board a ship right after landing and spend four hours more seafaring. Make sure you get plenty of sleep to avoid jet-lag. I don't wanna hear you lot making a ruckus."

　A Tokyo-Hawaii flight is around six hour long in the original Earth. Even airplanes are more advanced in this world it seems.
　All Boot Camp members, instructors and students alike got on the bus to the airport.



"Airplane... I truly find it hard to believe that such a big man-made object is capable of flight."
"Are you fine with airplanes, Ixia-san? I think it's scarier than ships."
"Can you not glide in the air until you reach the land?"

　No uh, that's a weird reasoning.

"It seems my seat is next to yours, Yuuki. The last time I had a trip in the air was when I rode a Monster Wagon drawn by a dragon in my past life. I simply cannot wait."
"Eh... Monster Wagon can fly...?"

　Monster Wagon is a type of carriage drawn by a monster that's still in use today.
　You might think that sounds outdated, but don't you underestimate them. They can run as fast as automobiles while cleaving through any terrains, they're actually better than cars.
　I've even heard talks about how Japanese automobile makers are consulting Monster Wagon makers on the mechanism. But... I've never heard one that flies. Age of Myth is really on a whole another level.

"We've still got time till boarding. Should we buy some drinks, Ixia-san?"
"Fufu, as a matter of fact I have brought with me our own drinks. Yuuki, you mentioned how you found the medicine I concocted delicious didn't you? I have made modifications to exclude its medicinal property. It now merely serves to relieve your fatigue. You can drink it worry free."
"Oh! ...Huh, but I don't think we're allowed to bring bottled water into the plane..."

　Ixia-san fetched a big flask with a huge smile on her face. But I don't think you can bring more than 100ml worth of liquid onto a plane. We can leave it to the crew for safekeeping though.

"It cannot be... How about we drink a bit here?"
"That's a good idea, let's."

　Just I poured the drink into a paper cup in the waiting room, Kaname and Ichinose-san came by.

"Good afternoon, Sasahara-kun's... mother, I suppose?"
"Oh? Good afternoon. Are you two perhaps friends of Yuuki?"
"Hello. Yes we're both Yuuki-kun's friends. Nice to meet you."
"Ah, these two are my classmates, also members of the same lab. Yoshida Kaname and Ichinose Mikoto-san. She's my guardian who lives with me, Ixia-san."

　The two looked a bit nervous so I took it upon myself to introduce both sides.
　Thank goodness, these two are the members in this boot camp.

"My, so you are. Thank you for being friends with our Yuuki. I believe we will have many opportunities to see each other during this boot camp, I am hoping my expertise would be of use."
"Yes, likewise. If I'm not mistaken, you are in charge of the infirmary, isn't it?"
"Yes, that is correct. My treatment is done through administering liquid medicine and inner mana adjustment instead of healing magic, but I also know a few other methods if needed be. Please rest assured."

　Jen-sensei came by as our conversation went on without a hitch.
　I'm kinda worried about this one interaction.

"My apologies for not greeting you sooner. I'm the instructor in charge of Class SS where Yuuki-kun belongs, Jen Faril. Pleased to meet your acquaintance."
"My! You're Yuuki's sensei! Yes, the pleasure is mine. You're a Dragonia, I see... It's quite a relief knowing my kid studies under your watchful eye."
"Oh not at all, it's actually Yuuki-kun who's been such a big help to me. I see... I expect no less from a relative of the royal family. Your skill in theoretical and practical fields are extraordinary."

　Sensei's public-facing persona is kinda interesting. Quit praising me just because you're meeting my guardian. It's so awkward...

"Ah no, I don't think I'm related to... the royalty. Perhaps my father or my mother might have had relatives with connections to them... But I personally do not know such great people."
"I-is that right. I beg your pardon. Yuuki-kun is quite an overachieving student which gave me that impression."
"My... That's a high praise, Sensei."

　Oy, stop that. Ichinose-san and Kaname, you two, wipe that grin off your faces.

"Please drop it, Jen-sensei. You're making me feel ticklish. Ixia-san, this Sensei doesn't usually act this way. She'd sexually harass and treat me like a kid."
"Oy Sasahara! How could you say something so cruel."
"She's right, Yuuki. Don't say that about your Sensei."

　Argh sheesh, I just wanna leave on an airplane.



　My first ever airplane travel wasn't as exciting as I thought it would be.
　No, it's not because I have a trauma over my father's death. It was just... boring.
　We're flying above the clouds so there's pretty much nothing but occasional breaks between clouds and glimpses of the seas below. That is to say, I'll be doing nothing but sitting pretty for four hour straight since we're not allowed to walk around and meet up with friends.

"Yuuki how about reading a book if you are unoccupied? I have brought some with me."
"'From the Dark Depth of Water ~Prequel, Reason for His Birth~'... Please give me a break."
"Oh okay... How about this one..."
"'BB Cooking Recipe Selection ~Good Food, Oven-less~. I'm gonna get hungry reading this... Actually why'd you even bring that with you..."

　I don't really get Ixia-san's preference.
　And yet, even just chatting away with her cheered me up, I got so engrossed talking by the time I realized the airplane had started lowering its altitude.

"This is my first time going abroad... The sea has a completely different color, awesome."
"It appears to be the case. I thought the sea at the Floating City was wonderful as is... This is amazing. You can tell how transparent the water is even from this altitude..."

　The seas around the visible islands have a light marine blue color to them, I wonder if those are shallow waters. Also, it's clear the buildings aren't as jam packed as in Japan here.
　Oh... I wish I could tour the place but we gotta board the ship right after.
　...Looks like the realization hit Ixia-san as well. She suddenly went quiet.



　As a country boy, I actually dreamed of going to Hawaii in a vacation but since we had to immediately get on a ship right after landing, it didn't feel real to me. Though the island we're heading to is supposed to be part of Hawaiian islands too.
　We arrived at an airport with a Japanese-like name before taking a transport to a harbor where we'd board a ship to this island. Apparently it was originally an uninhabited island bought by a joint association of millionaires from both Japan and America to build a private research facility on.
　Now that it's turned into a populated island, it's been deemed as part of Hawaiian islands.

"Ixia-san... Why'd you put a life jacket before we even get on the ship."
"You have to put it on too Yuuki, quickly! What if an unforeseen accident were to occur."
"It's all under control, I tell you... They have plenty of escape boats too. Let's get in line."
"Hii... Yuuki, please hold my hand... Please."

　I feel sorry for her, but on the other hand, this fragile side of her she doesn't usually show feels so adorable to me. Ah... Adorably pitiful...
　We boarded the ship hand in hand and walked straight to the room allotted to me.
　It's unbelievable how big this liner is. It's boarded not only by all the students from Japan, but also students from many other countries all over the world.
　Those cruisers that sail the oceans around the world probably looks like this.

"Let us head to our room... I will be fine as long as I don't have a clear view of the sea..."
"You're staying in my room? I think instructors have their own cabin--"
"With you... I want to stay with you please... If the ship were to sink, we'd be right next to each other... T-there's no iceberg out there, is there...?"

　Ah, right, she watched Titanic movie once... Why'd she watch that when she hates the sea....
　The room they gave me was so high class like a hotel room I almost forgot we were on board a ship. There's no window too.
　Ixia-san finally calmed down as she rustled her life jacket off and took a breather on the bed.

"Phew... This is a ship... I can't believe there's truly a ship that houses many rooms this exceptional out there... I thought for sure they only existed in movies--movie, Titanic... That movie is based on a real life accident, is it not...?"

　She started trembling midway through her sentence. I grabbed her hand to calm her down.

"Everything's gonna be alright. There's been no ship accidents with as many casualty after that one. Technology has improved leaps and bounds, we've also got magical engineering in the mix now. It'll be fine, I swear."
"A-are you sure...? H, huh... Did this ship, just move!?"
"Well of course it did. It's probably set sail already..."
"Ah... It's moving... Yuuki, please stay with me... Don't leave me alone, please."

　Those words brought me indescribable joy inwardly... but I'm sorry, I wanna tour the ship.
　Apparently they've got simple combat fields installed on the deck here, I bet all kinds of students are already having their matches there.
　Besides, I probably won't ever get another chance to ride a ship this luxurious on a sea this beautiful in my whole life.

"Err... I was thinking of having a little tour around the ship..."
"H-how could you! Didn't you promise we'd stay together all the way!?"
"T-then do you wanna go together, Ixia-san? It should feel like a huge ground facility as long as you don't see the sea. It's good as a distraction too."
"...Perhaps so. Please wait a moment, I shall put on this vest that lets you float on the sea first."

　I'm real sorry about this...
　I took life-vested Ixia-san's hand and made my way to the combat fields on the deck.

<TLN: Catch the latest updates and edits at Sousetsuka .com >

"Oh, Sasahara-kun... and Ixia-san. Are you here to watch the spectacles?"
"Yeah, I am. Ixia-san is, well, she's sort of a tag-along."
"I see. You don't look too good Ixia-san, are you feeling alright?"
"Y-yes. I'm fine, just fine..."

　There are pool-sized and tennis court-sized combat fields on the deck as well as sunbathing benches and plenty of students around enjoying their time.
　Heck, can't believe these people had brought swimsuits with them. Dangit, these bourgeois and their trip-loving nature. Ichinose-san is in plain clothes though. 

"Speaking of which, you should go and check that combat field. Kaname is having a match with a student from another school over there. He's a student of 'Grandia Knight Vocational School Asia Branch' as well as the runner up of last year's amateur battler tournament." 
"Ooh... Tell you what, I'm not familiar with other vocational schools. Is that one famous?"
"Yes, it is. The building is located in Chiba prefecture. The lecturers there are dispatched from Grandia to teach Otherside Moves. It was originally my first choice of school..."
"I see. You had a change of mind since Kai got enrolled to Scwhein School."
"Wwha!? T-that's not exactly..."

　Bullseye huh. But I might have ended up picking that school myself if I stayed away from Akimiya.

"I reiterate, that's not the case, okay? The tradition in that school does not fit me... It's an extremely merit-based school that leaves character building and theoretical study as an afterthought. While the school accepts anybody regardless of their standing... It has its own share of issues as well."
"I see... I get why someone as straitlaced as Ichinose-san would not fit in there."
"Fufu, I'll take that as a compliment."

　I went to watch Kaname's match. He's wielding both his summoned weapon and his weapon device in both hands, a dual halberd wielder if you may.
　I've never seen that kind of fighting style. He's swinging his weapons around like an eye of a storm. His opponent didn't even get any chance to get close.
　...Or maybe it's an intimidation tactic since there's a lot of spectators around.
　He's probably well known for that style. It'll serve to prune students trying to challenge him. 

"I see he possess an excellent physical ability... activating only the absolute minimum Physical Boost. His body must be well trained."
"Eh? You can tell?"
"Mwu, Sasahara-kun, have you never seen Kaname-kun change clothes in a dressing room?"
"Come to think of it, guy was never around or more like he was already done changing by the time I noticed... He looks so slim too. Don't tell me he's actually all jacked up under those clothing..."

　The fact that we were out in the middle of ocean seemed to hit Ixia-san in the middle of her commentary, she hurriedly turned her sight toward her feet away from the scenery. It's really tough for her...

"Fumu, looks like a new challenger has come."
"Ooh... Are they acquaintances maybe? They're having a talk over there."

　A new challenger undaunted by the match just now. Guy's got gray hair, he's either a foreign student or someone who underwent Mana Mutation.
　Kaname is talking with this challenger though I can't really tell what is it about from here.

"His opponent is a staff device user I see. A mage type who chooses a staff is quite rare..."
"You're right, I've never seen anyone using a staff instead of a Spell Linker before. Maybe he'll use that as a weapon."

　Once the match started, sure enough the guy wielded the staff like a melee weapon while shooting out flames whenever he found an opening. Guy's got skill.
　But I guess Kaname is still stronger, he's starting to push the guy.
　But then, the challenger's staff got enveloped in a blue light--

"He froze the ground with cold air... That's quite the feat to do in the midst of that maneuver."
"Hee... He turned the table on Kaname-kun in one fell sweep. Excellent move."

　Flame and ice. The challenger was quite adept at using both, he'd sometimes turn the floor slippery or produce water vapor to blind Kaname.
　His fighting style is truly fit to be called a Magic Warrior. I'm getting giddy just from watching.
　But that wasn't all there is to him.
　A bolt of lightning suddenly shot out of the water vapor, zapping its the way toward Kaname.
　Attacking with flames, throwing your opponent into confusion with ice. And then using the water vapor to create a path for the lightning.
　And judging from the way he handled that staff, guy's real good as a vanguard too.

"Is this his defeat...?"
"No... He could not have gained the title champion if he were to lose that easily."

　A shockwave that could be felt even here blew away the water vapor.
　Kaname grabbed the staff that was about to finish him off while thrusting his halberd before the challenger's face.

"...Kaname wrestled victory from the jaw of defeat huh."
"Fufu, exactly as I envisioned. That's our classmate."
"...I wonder about that. I could glimpse the staff-wielding boy dispersing the magic enveloping his staff a moment before the match ended. I believe it would have ended in a draw if this were a real battlefield."
"My goodness... I missed that part. You could see it, Ixia-san?"
"Yes. Although, it's rather that I could sense the flow of mana. I do not believe I'm mistaken."
"I see... I had no idea you were a high level mage. Sasahara-kun, your mother is incredible... Frankly, I find that enviable. I'm hopeless with magic after all."
"Hahaha... She taught me a lot of stuff too. She's my family... I'm real proud of."
"Fufu, oh you're making me blush. But Yuuki, you won't call me mother, will you?"
"W-well, that one's kinda..."

　Uh... That's my last bastion. I hope that someday instead of mother, she'll be...

"Fumu, it appears they do know each other. They're coming this way together."
"That's... Yuuki, look at him. The mage young man, I believe he's--"

　I looked up as Ixia-san pointed out, the guy walking with Kaname had a look of agape on his face, which probably mirrored mine right now--

"Is that you, Yuuki!? You're joining this boot camp too!?"
"Shousuke!? Why are you--wait, what's up with your hair!?"

　He's my high school friend, Kotou Shousuke.

"Ah, you mean this. I went to Grandia in May for a linguistic study course. That spurred this mutation... It looks weird, huh?"
"Nah not really, help that it's got an understated color. Man, it's been so long... I saw your match, you were amazing. Can't believe you can use three elements now."

　Shousuke hasn't changed much. He answered me while looking slightly bashful about his hair.

"Shousuke-kun, I didn't know you knew Yuuki-kun."
"Ah, he's a high school mate. I see... Kaname you got enrolled to Scwhein School..."
"Gotta say, I never saw the fact you two were friends coming either."
"Yup. I think I lived in the same prefecture as you two before I entered high school?"
"Yeah. I was in the same primary and middle schools as Kaname until he took an exam for a high school outside our prefecture."
"Hee... Real small world out here huh... Wait, so your parent's home would be at?"

　Kaname gave me the address which turned out to be an area around an hour of car trip away from my parent's house.
　What an amazing coincidence.

"Ah, long time no see, Ixia-san. Has Yuuki been a good boy?"
"Fufu, oh he is. It has been awhile Kotou-kun. That was truly a superb show of spell control during your match earlier."
"Thank you very much."
"You'd never stop acting like my guardian, would you. I'm a college level student now, just so you know."
"...I saw the news about you on my travel back to Earth. You've caused a lot of trouble for your friends, haven't you? Try to rein in that reckless run tendency of yours. Good grief... I almost yelled out loud on the airplane."

　Ah, so he wasn't on Earth when that incident happened.
　No wonder... He'd have stormed in my call log if he were.

"Now then, I think it's high time for you guys to introduce me to him."
"Oh, excuse me. My name is Kotou Shousuke. I'm a high school friend of Yuuki."
"Ichinose-san, he's that guy. The rival I mentioned I had in high school. Guy's the next strongest after me in sparing matches despite being a mage type."
"Kuku, ah. Right, in the end I never nabbed a win over you after summer... Hm? Did you say Ichinose-san? Could it be the same one as Ichinose Swordsmanship School...?"

　Whoa, even Shousuke knows the name. Ichinose-san is that famous?

"Ah, so you knew. Yes, that refers to the Dojo my family runs. Nice to meet you, I'm Ichinose Mikoto. A classmate of Sasahara-kun as well as an oft sparing partner."
"Ah, please just be casual with me. I'm sure we'll get many chances to speak during the boot camp. That'll make things easy."
"Point, taken. Well met, Kotou-kun. Sasahara-kun heaped on praises about you. The way you fought earlier also piqued my interest. I hope you could afford me a match or two during this boot camp."
"I was hoping to ask you that myself. I won't have another chance to practice with the young lady of Ichinose Family otherwise. This is one thing I'm envious of Yuuki on."

　The two hit it off right away thanks to their similar serious nature. 
　Uumu... Guess she's really famous. That fact never set in to me until I realized all the students and even grown ups around us are looking at our group.
　We were drawing too much attention I suggested we change location. 
　Sure enough, Ixia-san went, 'In that case, let us proceed inside the ship. That will shield us from the outside, will it not?'... That's probably because she doesn't want to look at the sea, no?



"Oh dear, you can really tell this is an Akimiya liner. We're all underage here yet they go and provide a lounge complete with a bar."
"Akimiya again... You sure know your stuff Shousuke."
"Yes, I read through the guide book for this boot camp. But still... It's been really long huh, Yuuki."

　We went to a high class lounge with a calm atmosphere.
　We sat down on a big sofa encircling a table.
　Ixia-san really looks the part in this kind of place for some reason. 

"I get Kaname and Ichinose-san but I'm surprised Yuuki managed to get a spot in that new class. Isn't that Field Training lesson quite rough?"
"Well, I can't disclose the detail but the missions allocated to us weren't something we can't handle."
"Yeah. Sasahara-kun in particular has made many great contributions. Honestly, he's proven to be a great stimulation for his classmates."
"You're telling me... Sure you're not just acting recklessly? Yuuki."
"I've learned a lot too you know. I'm gonna show you on the island."

　As we were chatting away, Ixia-san who left earlier came back with several cups on a tray.
　Looks like she went to get drinks--

"Huh? Isn't this..."
"Yes. It is from the flask given back to me before we boarded the ship."

　It's Ixia-san-made energy drink.

"Fumu, and this is?"
"It's a drink that relieves fatigue concocted by Ixia-san herself."
"Hee, I knew she could treat injury. So she could make this kind of stuff too."
"Ah, so, Ixia-san, you're part of infirmary personnel?"
"Yes. I will take post in an infirmary facility on the island. I am in charge of Yuuki's school but please feel free to come by whenever."
"Thank you. I'll have a cup then."

　We all took a sip. I drank down mine in one gulp while enjoying the usual tasty flavor.

"Ah, this tastes good. It's really good, Yuuki-kun's mother."
"It really is... Also I feel like it eases up my body stiff from all that sitting."
"Ooh... I think the mana I used up in my match with Kaname also recovered a bit."
"See? Ixia-san made some amazingly effective stuff, right. Not to mention it's also super tasty, it's my favorite."
"Fufu, I'm glad to hear it is to your liking."

　Looks like the drink also has the effect of calming the mind. Ixia-san who also had hers started looking better.
　We talked about the past, our new fighting style, what to do during boot camp and so on and before we knew it, we'd be arriving in 30 minutes.
　Thank goodness, that distracted Ixia-san from her excessive concern.

"I have to go and regroup with my schoolmates. I'll be seeing you guys again on the island."
"Yeah, see you later, Shousuke."
"See ya, Shousuke-kun."
"We have a match yet to fulfill, Kotou-kun. I shall see you again."
"Please take care. Be careful you don't fall into the sea."
"Y-yes. Later guys, you too Ixia-san."

　Our group also went and joined other Scwhein School students to get ready for going ashore.

Previous Chapter

Next Chapter 

Chapter 34

Book 3




『Alright, today we have quite the... unusual ingredient. We'll be covering how to cook it nicely.』
『Ooh!? What is it, what is it? What's this mystery ingredient?』
『Mother-san, you may take the curtain off.』
『Without further ado... Waow! Oh! Is this a giant tuna!?』
『It's a half tuna half monster to be exact. The meat is slightly harder than regular tuna before you heat it up and it turns just right. It's real good stuff.』
『My word... Where did you fish this out? I would love to get one for my channel.』
『Too bad, that can't be done because this monster only came to be by accident. Ah, we have the URL for Mother's channel below as you can see--』



"Hohou... This is quite the coincidence. We still have leftover meat of that tuna monster in our fridge... I wonder how is it going to be cooked."

　Someone rang the front door's bell while I was attentively watching the daily BB channel video.
　Yuuki said that he would be back early today, but he never rings the bell...
　Thus, the person waiting for me outside turned out to be--







"Overseas... is it? Yuuki is to leave for such a faraway place for ten whole days..."
"Yes. The mission this time is a personal request of mine. I am hoping Yuuki-kun could take part in this boot camp."
"...If that is what Yuuki wishes, then... But he won't simply participate in the camp, will he. You expect him to act during emergency. Do you have no objection to that, Yuuki?"

　Chairwoman visited our home!
　Yes. She personally came all the way here to persuade Ixia-san.
　Man, it's weird how restless I feel when it's my own home.

"Yes. If my power can be of use for Chairwoman, and for the future of Earth and Grandia. I mean the connection between two worlds is the only reason I've got a family now. I want to pay it back."
"My... If that is how you see things... I do not have the word to argue back. But Yuuki being away on the other side of the ocean for ten days..."
"I understand your concern, hence I am willing to make a concession this time. Ixia-san, I have arranged it so that you can join our school as a temporary school nurse during the excursion. You can go together with Yuuki-kun in this mission."
"Is that true!? I have absolutely no objection if that is the case. The both of us will be in your care."

　So yeah. Ixia-san is coming too this time around.
　By the way, her passport, which is a necessity to live in this world has been taken care of by the power of Akimiya... alongside our family register. Naturally, I've got mine made too since I'll likely be dispatched everywhere.

"However... Please promise me one thing. As you are aware, your existence is a closely guarded secret more than Yuuki-kun. Please stay away from the scene of conflicts in case of emergency and have faith in Yuuki-kun's ability to resolve the matter... You might put your cohabiting life with Yuuki-kun at risk if your existence ever comes into light, Ixia-san."
"...Yes, I am very much aware. The mission this time expects Yuuki to fully display his prowess. I believe in Yuuki's ability, he will do just fine."
"The feeling is mutual. That about wraps up my business today. You have my gratitude for your cooperation, Ixia-san."
"Yes likewise, thank you very much for your help."

　As it turned out, Ixia-san readily agreed to my outing. 
　Should I tell her that we're gonna have to ride a ship too to get there, not just a plane...?

"Err... Actually, the transportation we'll have to take is--"



　Afterward, it took me the whole night to soothe Ixia-san who did her very best to try and stop me from going. She relented and compromised under the condition I must stay next to her the whole time we're on the ship... I feel like I wronged her somehow...
We only took this option because when I asked her, 'Maybe you should stay at home?', she replied with 'I shall bear with it if Yuuki insists on going'.

　The following day, I told Jen-sensei that I would join the boot camp and declined Koune-san's invitation. Koune-san seemed really glad about it. I guess she actually wasn't too keen on the order from her house?
　Oh and, Ichinose-san and Kaname are the participating members from Class SS.
　In fact, it was the organizer who asked them.
　According to Ichinose-san, 'My father cannot attend the boot camp this time even though many pupils of our dojo will be present. It is my duty as his daughter to represent him.'
　As for Kaname, 'I'm a champion of last year's amateur battler league, so I'm duty bound to join this camp'. Man... These two are quite the bigwigs aren't they... Kaname hasn't really shown his true strength yet though.



　After such and such, came weekend. Chairwoman brought me to a pro battler stadium located on the mainland.
　It's equipped with a spell formula that turns damage into stamina consumption. I'm very familiar with it but the formula used for pro league players is an even more advanced form that could sap down your entire stamina in one hit and knock you out depending on the firepower of that hit.
　Not only stamina, it also saps down your mana, dulls your sense, stimulates your sense of pain as the price to pay for an extended usage limit.
　...These top pro league players are hardcore.

"...Yuuki-kun. Please change to your suit ahead of time. We cannot afford anyone catching you by mistake."
"Understood."

　In the waiting room, I changed to my combat suit, put on the helmet and fetched the greatsword I don't usually use while Chief Nishida and Chairwoman were watching.

"It would be best if we set up a voice changer in the helmet. Chief Nishida, if you would."
"Roger that. Yuuki-kun, give me your helmet please... Right, I should also install a disguise gimmick while I'm at it."
"Yes, that's a good idea... Yuuki-kun, could you take off the upper garment of your combat suit for the time being?"
"Got it. Oh yeah... People could still figure me out by my voice."
"Yes. To avoid that, we will make a slight modification. Chief Nishida, don't you think you should modify his protector as well?"
"I see. It's a good thing you have a small stature for times like this."

　What what, how am I getting modified again?

"One more thing. You will be granted a formal code name in this dispatch. Yuuki-kun your code name is 'Dainsleif', the crazed demonic blade that craves lifeblood and seeks to destroy every single remnant of its enemies. It's an... embodiment of what I wish you to become. It's too cruel a burden for someone who hasn't even come of age. Are you sure you won't regret walking down this path?"
"...I won't. I can tell that Chairwoman... Akimiya-san is genuine in your feeling of wanting to protect the relationship between Grandia and Earth. I know that you need strength to maintain that balance. And if that means enlisting my power... I will not hesitate to comply."

　However... That's only because I trust Chairwoman right now. If there comes a day when... she harbors an ambition to invade and rule over Grandia, Ixia-san's homeland...
　Ah, also, that code name sounds super cool, I love it.
　I think it's from Norse Myth? Why won't they make games from those myths anyway.
They could have developed that 'Somethingsomething Profile'.

"Family Head, I'm done installing the gimmick. It's an impromptu one. I'll set up an improved version at a later date. Right... I should install the mechanism in his suit to account for times he has to take his helmet off."
"Yes, that will do. Make sure to notify me when you get to it. I'm an adept in the art of molding."
"W-what's this about...? What are you putting in that helmet?"
"Go see a mirror with it on, you'll see for yourself."

　I put the helmet on and stood in front of a mirror. The shape looks the same as always.

"Hm? Behind me there's... hair? Eh, isn't there long hair coming out of my helmet? Huh? My voice sounds weird too!"
"Yes. Fake long hair comes out of that helmet when you put it on. With that hair and your voice, people should see you as a woman."
"Eeh... That's why you were glad about my height..."
"That's right. Here, put this protector on."
"Uwaa, there's a chest bump on it now. Are you telling me to act like a girl?"
"Her personality is up to you. Act like a cute girl or the silent type, choose whichever you want."
"Oh, I have just the right idea for that. First, say this when you beat someone, 'Yan yan?'--"
"Not happening."

　Uwaa, I do look like a combat woman in a suit.
　I absolutely refuse to speak like a girl... I'm gonna follow Family Head's request and act like a terrifying crazed warrior...

"Well, I can decide on that later. Today I'm gonna focus on testing how far can I fight in this style."
"Yes, do just that. Your opponent this time is not an Underworld Survey Team. I have called in Akimiya's private army, a suppressive force we have stationed in Grandia."
"Suppressive force!? What's going on, are you planning to invade Grandia!?"

　I yelled out loud without thinking when she gave me that unexpected reply.

"No. However... it is a fact that there exist Grandians pervasive in disruptive and subversive activities. These people are a task force specialized in roughhousing individuals like those as well as exterminating monsters coming out of the Gate and protecting Grandia villages. They are purely adapted to combative scenarios, I believe they should make for a tough challenge for you."
"So that's how it is. My apologies."
"Last time you fought a well coordinated group of people, but that's not the case now. This group consists of mighty warriors compelled to unite as one. I promised them that the one who deals you the finishing blow would be rewarded handsomely. They will likely go in for the kill."
"Uhii!? That' way too scary!"

　Are you for real. So they're real warriors who've been fighting on front line all this time.
　...Guess that means I should go for the kill as well.

"Five minutes until match start. Yuuki-kun... No, Dainsleif. This is your first campaign. Show me the true capability of my future trump card, that demonic blade of yours."

　I gotta shift my mindset. Recall the strongest, the coolest greatsword wielding game character I love. I am one... The strongest crazed warrior.
　My image is that of a... 『The supreme knight who had been fighting darkness by his lonesome until he lost all reasons』.
The 『Abyss Walker』... I am him--







　This time, the unit's roster isn't exclusive to earthlings. They have Grandians as well. 
　They're all veteran combatants scouted for their strength.
　They deal with monsters and combative people on a daily basis in the dark side of the world. You could call them mercenaries, hit men, or warmongers. In a way they're Akimiya's secret weapon.

"The one who deals the finishing blow gets 3 million yen. Everybody else gets 300,000 yen regardless."
"That's cool. Our boss's real generous. Bet it ain't that simple though... I better put my back into it."
"What's the plan, none, yeah? It's free-for-all except no friendly fires, yeah?"

　Each and every one of them is far more powerful than any army, battler or warriors on Earth.
　A being challenging the seven of them came into the field.

"...A woman? She's tiny."
"Oh geez, oh man... People her kind are all stupid strong."
"Speaking from experience?"
"You betcha. Alrighty, first I'm gonna--"

　In that exact moment. The woman standing in the opposite side was nowhere to be seen.
　The men wasn't sure what happened for a moment. But as you'd expect from veterans, they immediately inferred that their opponent must have jumped up and guarded against the incoming down swinging attack.

　--Yes, they put up a resistance. But two of them got instantly smashed by a greatsword coming down on them. At the same time, blades of wind gush out all over the place, mowing down everything in its paths, incapacitating four of these men in the blink of an eye.

"What the hell! Screw this, 3 million ain't cuttin' it, not even close!"
"GAAAAAAAAAAAAAH!! PULVERIIIIIIIIIZED!"

　The small demon-like being moved so fast you'd think she was warping around, turning everything into dust as she swung her greatsword.
　She'd go around their back. A touch of her greatsword would blow her target like they were a ragdoll. A single jump she made would produce a crater in the arena.
　It was like watching a jackhammer jumping all over the place.
　Nobody was left standing by the end of this incarnation of destruction's rampage.
　It wasn't even fit to be called a combat. There was no shred of resistance in the wakes of her destructive trails. Akimiya's special force was utterly obliterated in three minutes flat.

"UOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!!!!!"

　The crazed swordswoman roared out loud in the destroyed stadium. The few men who were barely holding onto their consciousness could only cower in fear at the sight of it.



<TLN: Catch the latest updates and edits at Sousetsuka .com >



　Oh man... Had no idea I've gotten this strong. The stadium's taken a real beating.
　Chairwoman and Chief Nishida looked taken aback when I went back to the waiting room.

"...That was unlike anything I had expected. You were like a completely different persona, fit to carry the name 'Dainsleif'. It appears... you have grown far stronger beyond even my wildest imagination."
"Yuuki-kun, are you feeling okay? Are you angry? Have you calmed down?"
"I'm calm as they come. That was just an act. Nobody could tell that was me, right?"
"R-right. Absolutely no chance. I've still got the jeebies even now..."

　Looks like my intimidation, I mean my acting of a crazed warrior had an amazing effect.
　I took the helmet off and put it away with my suit and greatsword inside my choker.

"Phew... That came as a surprise to me too. So much that... I'm getting afraid that this power might be too much for me."
"Yes well... I believe you could last a minute against 'Joker'. Frankly, I never would have thought you managed to reach that level of power in less than a year."
"J-just one minute...?"

　What kind of monster is even that....

"That is not something you even consider going up against. They're a being that exists to maintain the worlds' equilibrium. Think of them like a natural phenomenon."
"Is that how... it works."
"But, I can rest easy leaving the mission in your hands now. I suspect a certain country would detect the incident unusually fast, in less than an hour, and demand their intervention. It's your job to resolve the incident as Dainsleif before they could dispatch their army."
"Yes. I'll give it my all to crush them all."
"...Indeed. You may reap their lives if the need arises. Just remember this. The boot camp is a gathering of more than 200 first class warriors in the making. A group daring to take them on... must command a considerable amount of personnel, more than the unit you just fought, and take hostages. Be sure to stay wary."
"Yes. Err... Don't you think the students gathered there would act on their own?"
"I do. But that will be their own responsibility to bear. Yuuki-kun. You aren't to be a bodyguard in this mission. You're an exterminator. I am not telling you to abandon them... But you understand, right?"

　I get it. I'm now a part of that world. Akimiya's hound dog in charge of maintaining the balance. I've steeled my resolve to walk on that path.

"Family Head. Please don't put that kind of pressure on Yuuki-kun. Yuuki-kun, you can always get out of this world anytime you wish. Please don't forget that. I'll be watching over Family Head so she won't push you over the edge with impossible missions, okay?"
"...Chief Nishida, you're making me out like a bad woman who merely wants to use him for my gain."
"Aren't you one step away from becoming one? Please don't be unreasonable with him. Push him too much, and I might just ask 'Joker' for help."
"Hie! T-that's not fair, Chief Nishida... Fine. Yuuki-kun, I have good news for you. The world's strongest pro battler will be attending the boot camp and I've made a deal with him to help in case of emergency. The contract I negotiated is chiefly for students' protection, you can rest easy on that front. He's the strongest in public and about your current level on the underside."
"Seriously...? There's really no end to it... I can't even see the top..."
"Keep in mind that we are in the dark about the precise timing of the attack. I won't ask you to stay on your toes at all times, but please make sure you're ready."
"Got it."

　Oh what, she's got the students covered after all.
　That puts a slight relief on my mind. And thus ended my training today.





　Once Yuuki has left, the two people remaining in the stadium, Family Head Akimiya Ryouka and Research Chief Nishida Chise had the gentle expression on their faces erased, replaced with a tense look.

"As you have heard, Yuuki-kun is able to cast high level dimensional magic as well. I'm afraid he will become a true deterrent to major powers of the world in a not so distant future."
"...But that's... too heavy a burden for him to carry. I have always been nudging him toward a path with the least bloodshed."
"...But his power won't allow him to take that path. Someone has to watch over him and show him the way to wield that power in the right direction, and that responsibility falls to..."
"Us, as the ones closest to 'Him'..."

　Grown ups are worrying and debating over the path a boy still too young to be called a man will chose. All for the sake of his future as well as for disputes over resources engulfing two worlds.
　Strong power begets conflicts. Be it WMD, Grandia resources or powerful individuals.

"...A certain country is on the move to remove me. If the time comes where I have been ridden of this position, the rest falls in your hands... Chise-san."
"...Yes, Ryouka-san. I'm sure... the academy too..."
"Yes. If it ever comes to that, I wonder how will he, Yuuki-kun act."





　I held back on my impulse to tour Tokyo and made my way back to Floating City.
　Riding the train on the mainland is such a hassle... Chief Nishida would usually offer me a ride, but she couldn't make it today due to work.
　After the train, I got on board of a ferry instead of the usual monorail to reach the Floating City.

"The bridge and the monorail will have the grand reopening next month huh... It'll be right as new by the time I'm back from summer break."

　Our summer break lasts until the first ten days of September. Can't believe we have the whole August off.
　Since the holiday starts from 26th this month, that makes more than 40 days.

"A mission huh. I'm not gonna last if that's all I think about. I wanna play around somewhere."

　I stopped thinking about all the difficult talk and focused on my first holiday period in a big city. Hopeful stuff like how to spend my time with Ixia-san and all my friends staying on Earth.





　Closing ceremony. It's not exactly a ceremony though. Us students get called to our classroom to be formally told about the end of first term and the start of the midterm before we're free to go.

"Oh, so Yuuki is gonna join the boot camp too."
"Yup. Selia-san, are you staying in Grandia the whole holiday?"
"Uun, I think I'm gonna spend about two weeks here."
"I see. Wanna go around Tokyo together then? I plan to go home later, but I wanna tour Tokyo before I do."

　I think Satomi-san will be back as well.
　I should ask her schedule later. She's probably going home too.

"E, eh? Are you okay with me?"
"Yup. Everybody else's fully booked with their own stuff. Selia-san's the only free one."
"O-oh okay, that's a pity. Then, I'll get in touch once I'm back."
"Yup. Who knows I might be able to grab someone to join us too."
"You don't have to go out of your way to invite them, okay?"

　But then, that'll only make the two of us. It's gonna be like a date, kinda nerve wracking.

"Hm? Yuuki-kun, are you going on a Tokyo Date with Selia-san?"
"It's Tokyo Tour. I'd love you to come along Kaname since you seem to know your way around, but you're going home after the boot camp, aren't you?"
"Sure am. My family's been pestering me since I never went home my entire high school life."
"I see. Oy, Arariel, what's your plan for summer break?
"Ah hey... Yuuki, I'm telling you, you don't have to try so hard..."

　But we might as well ask someone who knows their way around.
　Ichinose-san already declined me by the way. She's going to train the disciples at her family dojo after the boot camp.
　Kazuki-san had already left the classroom. Apparently she's got a presentation at her corporation HQ in Fukuoka, her hometown.

"Aa? I gotta grab a plane to Grandia after this. It's gonna take a week just on transport. A huge pain in the butt, I'mma hole up over there the whole break."
"For real? Oh yeah, heard you can't air travel in Grandia."
"Yea. S'why I gotta go by land and sea routes. Aa, what a pain."
"Hee, so your continent's pretty far away then, Arariel?"
"Ahn? Didja forget my homeland? It's North Lessia continent."

　North Lessia continent. I learned that name in Mythology Study.
　The continents in Grandia were aligned in a row until one day, the 'Demon Lord' as he showed up in the myth split the northernmost continent 'Endlessia' into two, the north and south sections.
'That world's even got a Demon Lord', or so I thought at first, but apparently it wasn't a name for the root of all evil, but the lord of all demons, a race in Grandia.
　By the way, the current Demon Lord is the 67th generation.

"Ah, that reminds me... Mind getting me an original copy of 'Demon Lord, Goddess, and Holy Mother' book? My big sister is a huge fan of the legend."
"Aa? Why'd you wanna a copy of that crusty old book? Stuff's real pricey ya know."
"I'll pay you back. Can't get one on Earth, you see."

　Fuumu, right there's that too. Mythology Study touched upon that subject a bit, apparently it was a popular myth that became the basis of current religions in Grandia.
Faith in 'Demon Lord', 'Goddess', and 'Holy Mother' are the three major religions over there.
　I asked Ixia-san about them and she said, 'I am not familiar with those.'
　Guess they're relatively recent?

"Sure, I'mma get you one if I don't forget bout it, but you gotta introduce me to your big sis."
"Sure, I will."
"You're fine with that, Kaname...?"
"Fine with what?"

　Well, I guess if he's okay with it as her family. Ah, I can only hope Arariel won't sink his fangs on her.
　Thus each of us went our separate ways to spend summer break our way, leaving the Floating City... Expect for those who're staying that is.



"I'm home, Ixia-san."
"Welcome back, Yuuki. Isn't it hot outside? Come, let us take shelter in the living room."
"Ahaha... The summer here is sweltering. By the way, Ixia-san, would you like to go out with me today?"
"Oh? Is there a special occasion of some sort taking place?"
"Actually, yes. I've made a reservation in a restaurant, will you come?"

　August 25 is the end of first term as well as a special day.
　Unfortunately, we're not going to a sushi restaurant this time around. It's a sukiyaki restaurant with private rooms.
　I've been having nothing but tuna lately... I'm craving meat fierce.

"Yes I am free, I have not bought short lived perishable either today. Fufu, could it be a special day for you? You look so happy, Yuuki."
"You can tell? I can't help it because today is super special."
"Your happiness is my joy, Yuuki. Oh I have brought ice cream as our dessert today, let's enjoy them while we watch a movie together, shall we."
"If it's not a horror sure."
"...I don't think it's that scary?"

　Why'd you rent one.



　Evening. We came to an upscale sukiyaki restaurant with private rooms located in the urban areas. 
　Oh right, I don't think Ixia-san has had sukiyaki yet.
　Today is truly a special day for me. An anniversary.
　As I waited for our food to get carried to our room with the smiling Ixia-san, she couldn't seem to hold it anymore and spoke to me.

"Yuuki, please enlighten me. What is the occasion? I cooked up a storm to celebrate your excellent exam results the other day. So what would today be about?"
"To tell you the truth..."

　Just before I could finish, the waiter opened the door to our private room and brought the sukiyaki pot.
　This upscale restaurant actually offers chef service that would cook for you but I declined so we could cook the sukiyaki ourselves.

"Let's talk about that over the food, Ixia-san."
"Fufu, I suppose you're right. Fumu... It's like a combination of grilled meat and a pot."
"It's one of Japan's most prominent cuisines. So you see, first you do this..."

　We relished on the food before the waiter came by again once we had our fill.

"Should we bring the item now?"
"Yes, please."
"Fumu? Oh, did you order a new menu, Yuuki?"

　I smiled back at her as the waiter brought and put a certain dessert on the center of the table.

"Yuuki, this is...? There's something written on it... 'Happy Birthday', is it? Yuuki, it's your birthday!?"
"Nope. Ixia-san, it's today. The day I... summoned your soul to this world. Technically maybe it should be the day your body had finished forming, but to me... It's the day I met you Ixia-san. I took it upon myself to decide this date as your birthday... Is that okay?"

　I might be in the wrong for making the decision on my own.
　But that was undoubtedly the day I called her, her soul to Earth.
　That's why...

"...I, had no idea. It has already been a year, hasn't it... The moment was truly fleeting. That day, I passed away and ascended to heaven as I watched over what was left of my body behind... And then I came to this world as if it was a wish I asked someone. Yes, I believe so. Today is definitely the day I am reborn in this life as Ixia."

　She turned her sight from the cake to me and blossomed into the brightest of smiles.

"Yuuki, thank you so much. I'm the happiest I've ever been... I love you, Yuuki."
"Uu... Y, yes... I love you too."

　The meaning behind mine definitely differs from hers.
　But it's not like I don't have the same feeling she has.
　That's why, it's fine for today. I'm satisfied with that 'love'.

"Fufu... it's such a shame that we have to consume this. So this is what they call a 'cake'."
"Yep yep. Okay, I'm gonna cut it up."

　And thus, I made another irreplaceable memory together with Ixia-san.

Previous Chapter

Next Chapter 

Chapter 33

Book 3




"Thank you very much for having me today. I'll be seeing you again at school."
"Fufu, please do come by again, Koune-san."
"Yes! I'll definitely come back for another meal! Fufu, nothing beats family cooking!"
"Haha... Okay, Koune-san. See you again at the campus."

　At night, I saw Koune-san off after she stuffed herself full with an unbelievable amount of rice and pickled tuna Kalbi grill.
　My mana has recovered somewhat thanks to Koune-san sharing her mana and eating some food, but that magecraft really isn't something I can use willy-nilly.
　If I had to give it a name, I'd call it 'Gale Gash'. Of course I got the inspiration from a game.

"...Now then. I would like to remind you again. Please make sure you resort to that magecraft only when the needs to secure yourself arise. I would have never imagined Yuuki had the making of a magecraft caster. I am elated as your parent but it does come not without a concern."
"Yes, well. I didn't think it would come out that amazingly well either..."
"Indeed... I believe it's a testament to Yuuki's grandfather, Kurazo-san's sheer capability as a Magic Swordsman. It only makes perfect sense for Yuuki to be as powerful."

　My gramp, Sasahara Kurazo. You're a super powerful master now.
　...Pretty sure you'd welcome that, won't you? You were a huge fan of period drama after all.
　I've finally got my hands on a ranged attack at last.
　But then I gotta reduce all combat-adjacent activity for a while starting the day after tomorrow... because we're entering the exam period.
　I've got four subjects to tackle on, 'Practical Combat Theory', 'Grandia Mythology', 'Swordsmanship Study', and 'Device Engineering'. Four written tests and two practical exams for 'Swordsmanship Study' and 'Practical Combat Theory'.
　Six exams in total. Thankfully, I'm only a member of 'Mana Application Study' lab so there's no exam for it.
　There's no clubs or lab meetings during the exam period starting this week. I gotta put my back into my study...



　Now that club activities are on hold in July, the campus is filled with an atmosphere of exam period.
　The giant library has become a hot spot for many studious students. You'd also come across students studying in many places all over the campus as well.
　Even our class who were late with the program by two days due to our Field Training got overwhelmed by the fervor, prompting us to find our studying spots.

"Phew... Hit a good breaking point for today's written exam study. I'm gonna train a bit to practice for Swordsmanship Study's practical exam."
"Hahn? The heck Yuuki, ain't you takin' this stuff easy."
"I mean I've only got one written exam that'll be tough to me, Device Engineering."

　The two other lectures honestly feel like game's guide books, so I'm pretty into them. Good tactics against every type of monsters? I love learning that stuff.
　And Mythology is like trying to memorize novel stories.
　Only Device Engineering is a toughie. It's pretty much science after all.

"Tch... See ya. I'mma hole up here for a bit more. Get ready to take me on later."
"Aye aye. I'll be hanging around the third training hall."

　For some reason, I've been studying together with Arariel a lot lately. Turns out Kai is pretty hopeless with written exams, so Ichinose-san has been drilling the subjects into him every day.
　They invited me too to which I gracefully declined.
　Selia-san is apparently the type that can't concentrate in a crowd so she's been studying in her room. 
　Both Kazuki-san and Kaname-kun don't need to study for their written exams so they're focusing on training for the practical exams.
　Lastly, Koune-san. She does... not need to do anything special for her exams.
　To my surprise, she's supposedly a genius. She told me she never needed to study in her life.

"Uoo... This place's chokeful of people."

　The practical exam of Swordsmanship Study has students face off against an instructor using a sword provided by the campus.
　You get points not from defeating the instructor but from dealing blows on specific body parts.
　As such, the best way to practice is by having a match with someone in one of the nine fields here, but of course all nine fields are fully occupied.

"The least crowded field would be... the sixth one huh."

　I registered my name on the waiting list screen. My opponent is... a schoolgirl from Class B huh.
　Man... This school's way too high tech.

"...Why does Class SS even need to study for exams."
"Hm, what the what?"

　As I was waiting at the audience seat for my turn, someone said that out loud nearby.
　I turned around to the voice and saw five familiar looking guys.
　...I think they're the students I fought in USH Store back then.

"Can't exactly sit around twiddling my thumbs can I? Also, you're not allowed to use a katana device in the exam. Actually what're you guys doing here yourselves. Aren't Class S folks supposed to be the cream of the crop in this school?"
"Tch, that sounds like sarcasm coming from you."
"My bad."

　They didn't pursue the matter further and took off right after. It's rare for Class S to train for practical exams. I don't see a single one in the waiting list earlier... In that sense, I guess those guys are among the more diligent ones?
　A message popped up on my smart terminal while I was having that thought.
『Your turn is next. Please stand by in the Field Six.』
　Everything's high tech.



"Ah, you're my sparing partner. Let's do this."
"Hie! Sasahara-sama! U, um... I'm not good enough for you, I'd like to withdraw..."
"Eh, please don't be like that. I mean we're here to train for our exams, aren't we all, let's have a review together. I'm not going to go all out right from the get go or anything."
"I-in that case... I will be your opponent."

　The schoolgirl I faced in the field cowered when I looked her way.
　I guess her attitude was inevitable considering all the rumors about me going around in the campus just the other day... But getting called 'sama' is a bit.

"Ah, also, please drop the 'sama'. Not like I come from a prestigious family or anything."
"U-understood... I'm ready when you are!"
"Yup yup. Let's go."

　First, I clashed swords with her without Physical Boost.
　Figured you'd have to be strong to even get accepted in this school. Despite being in Class B, her swordsmanship is very refined and her aim at my vital spots are on point.
　She's about on par with me in terms of swordsmanship alone, but her swinging speed is rather problematic.

"I-I can't land a hit..."
"Try to minimize wasted movement. Also, switch to a thrusting attack when you're aiming. Focus on shortening your swing range when you wield your sword."
"Y, yes!"

　It's not easy to immediately put advice into practice but she does, which is amazing. The students here are all too talented.
　She was about to hit my shoulder, a vital spot, even as that thought crossed my mind.

"Whoaa! Dang you're already getting better! Lemme shift into higher gear myself."
"Y-yes!"

　Sparring with someone like this helps as a review of yourself.
　Our match didn't last too long yet I learned a lot.

"Y-you have my gratitude for sparing me your time!"
"Likewise. See you."

　You're only allowed one match per field use so I go back to register again. Not sure why there's nobody queuing on field six...
　But the moment I got my name registered, a crowd of students rushed in and my turn came up right away.

"Ah, I didn't make it! None is allowed to register until Sasahara-sama is done registering! You hear me? No stealing the march!"
"Got it! I'll be his next sparing partner for sure!"
"Nope, gotta be me. Not everyday you can get a personal lesson with Class SS."

　...But why. Is it because they saw me giving advice earlier.
　Afterward, the queue on field six remained empty every time I registered and got filled up once I did, I ended up having to spar with 20 people in a row which wore me down by the end.



"Kekeke, someone's a hard worker."
"Arariel... You could've helped train some of them if you were watching."
"Hell no way, pain in the neck. Was busy beating the hell outta those Class S bunch."
"Ah... Those guys huh. Oh yeah, you only have Mana Application Study as your practical exam. Is there even a point sparring with Swordsmanship Study members?"
"Our exams' pretty much identical. Only difference's between swinging a sword, bare fists or magic."
"I see."

　By the way, this school also has 'Economics Study', 'Laws Study' and 'Medical Study' which got no combat at all. None of which I attend.
　Kazuki-san took some of those classes... which is just impossible for me.
　That said, 'Mythology Study' is considered 'Cultural Study' and 'Device Engineering' is a type of Engineering Study.
　So yeah, that's about how I spent my days studying for exams.



　Middle of July. It's finally time for exams. How long your exams last depend on the lectures you take. I'm just about done with mine on the third day myself. Right now I'm heading for the cafeteria to celebrate amid the still fizzling air.
　I mean... It's all I can eat for free for one whole year. Now's the time to exploit that.
'Margherita pizza', 'boneless fried chicken', 'cola float', and 'beef tortilla.'
　They all look so good! This cafeteria serves all kind of junkie food too and right now, I'm in the mood of wolfing them down like someone my generation.

"Kaah...! Fried chicken tastes way good when you've got no worries!"

　I bite on the crispy fried chicken, and wash it down with cola and the sweet vanilla ice cream! What a blissful time!

"...You really let loose there don't you, Sasahara-kun."
"Gulp!? I-Ichinose-san... Hahaha... It feels so liberating I can't help myself..."
"Fufu... Well I cannot say I don't understand where you're coming from. But that's Akimiya for you, their exams were nothing to scoff at. Practical exams aside, the written ones were quite a challenge."
"If I remember right, you've got as many exams as me, right. Were they really that tough?"
"Yes. It goes without saying that I had made plenty of preparations... How about you Sasahara-kun? I understand that just like me, you have no issues with practical exams."
"Hmm, I guess I did so-so except for Device Engineering."
"Fumu, I see... Unlike a certain someone, you're quite well adjusted even on subjects unrelated to combat."
"Ah... How's Kai doing? He looked pretty desperate during his study."
"Umu... That guy is incapable of concentrating well in classrooms... But he did his very best to study because he didn't want to take on remedial over the summer break."

　Despite how he seems, Kai is a rather lackadaisical student like me and Arariel, or more like guy's quite lustful, normal for people our age. Is he thinking of... picking girls up on the beach during summer break maybe? 
　Being a student of Scwhein alone would probably score you a lot of point with the ladies.
　Me? I'm good with ladies for now. They're kinda scary.

"Now then... I suppose I should order something. I crave for something sweet."
"I recommend cola float. It's been getting sweaty lately."
"Fufu, I suppose you're right. That shall be my order."

　Ichinose-san came back with a huge parfait and slightly blushing cheeks.
　Looks like she couldn't go against her craving after all the hard work despite her dislike of sweet.


<TLN: Catch the latest updates and edits at Sousetsuka .com >


　Students who have finished their exams are free to go to campus if they want but there's nothing to do there anyway so I busied myself learning new magic under Ixia-san's guidance instead.
　As a result I managed to create a new low cost spell, 'Wind Blade' imitating a certain game move.
　According to Ixia-san, 'It boasts sufficient cutting power and speed. However, I imagine it shan't work well against powerful enemies due to its easy to predict nature.' Uh... What kind of monster can dodge this move.
　So yeah, I spent some fruitful days until the end of exam period when our class got called for a meeting.

"Congrats on finishing your exams. You took a lot of classes didn't you, Selia-san. That's a lot of exams."
"Ah, feels like it's been forever. Yep, I mean I'm a vanguard sure but I also took classes like magic theory and heraldry. Oh and, Sports Science. That stuff you can only find on earth."
"I see... At any rate, good work. Any idea why we got called today?"
"To give us our report cards, I think? Some of us might have to take remedial too."

　Someone groaned when Selia-san touched that topic.

"Stop that... Quit talking about that stuff... I might not get enough credits depending on my scores... If I gotta take supplementary lessons in summer break..."
"What's up Kai, you've got stuff lined up for summer?"
"Yeah... I asked Mikoto's dad to train me in Grandia so I can focus fully."
"The heck that sounds too awesome. Is Ichinose-san going with you?"
"Nope, just me. I really wanna focus on my training."

　I see... Speaking of which, I never got to spar with Kai in the end after the last Field Training.

"Yes, I will not accompany him. There is another event I will be attending instead. I believe Sensei will be accepting application today."
"Ah, Mikoto-chan. Whatchu talking about?"
"Right, Selia was in Grandia until last year. There is a boot camp whose participants are limited to endorsed students age 16 to 20 from every high schools and colleges in Japan. I attended the camp last year. I can see myself joining the camp yet again this year. It's a rare chance to learn and spar with those who come from different academies and fields. But Kai has been losing patience after watching Sasahara-kun's progress as of late, thus he went and consulted my father."

　I see. I did get serious in the last Field Training.

"The heck Kai, you're that bothered about me?"
"Of course I am. Yuuki, you've gotten a lot stronger with your new fighting style, haven't you."
"Fufufu... Lemme give you a piece of new intel, Kai... I've taken another step forward lately. I came up with a literal finisher."
"Wha... No way, tell me you're pulling my legs. That's way too fast..."

　Kai is in disbelief. The one who popped up here is the usual--

"He's telling the truth, Kai. Yuuki-kun has gotten stronger than ever. To be honest... Even Mikoto-chan might be no match to him anymore. Fufufufu.... I'm the only one who knows about that, for now."
"Hou. Have you grasped a new attainment, Sasahara-kun? That's exciting..."
"You kidding me... Just you wait, Yuuki. You gotta spar with me for real after summer break."

　Bring it on I said, but inwardly, I've still got a lot of homework.
　That move consumes way too much mana. Wish I could shave it down.
　My classmates were having livelier chats than usual now that we were all liberated from exams. Before long, a super lightly dressed Jen-sensei came into the classroom. 

"Take your seat, folks. I'll send your exam results to your terminals, go check it up. You can also see your ranking in the school on it, get to know it and motivate yourself to do better."
"Jen-sensei, what's up with your bold fit. It's way too stimulating for young boys like us."

　It's pretty much a swimsuit. She's got short pants though. As usual, her body's quite the bombshell. Not to mention those muscles. She even got six packs.

"Hn, is it? Wanna cope a feel?"
"Drop the harassment please. Quick, send us our results."
"Yea. Okay, you all will receive it all at once. For your information, any lecture with a score below 50 means you have to take supplementary lessons during summer break."

　I checked up the results she sent us.
　...Yup, got full scores on both practical exams for Swordsmanship Study and Practical Combat Theory. Well, I crushed the examiner and all the vital spots the moment the exam started after all. It's only right.

"Guoo... Have you checked on.... Swordsmanship Study practical exam ranking, Yuuki..."
"Hm? Ah, I'm Rank 1 in the whole school! Tied with Ichinose-san though."
"...And I'm third place, or rather the runner-up... Maaan..."
"Don't mind, don't mind. Let's have another match at the end of school year."
"Yeah! I'm gonna kick both you and Mikoto down to second place."
"Fufu, that ain't happening. At best, all three of us gonna share the top spot."

　Scanning the rankings, Ichinose-san, Selia-san, Arariel and Kaname and I all got the top spot for Practical Combat Theory practical exam. All of us being the members of that lab.
　The runner-up is Class S... Rick-kun.

"As you all have seen, this class has a monopoly on practical exams. This result is expected but don't let that get to your head, you hear me? Class S students have gotten a lot stronger over this first term as well. Them catching up to this class next year isn't entirely out of question."
"Hee... That sounds fun. Does that mean students from this class can drop down too?"
"Yep... Hate to say, but those who suffer a big enough injury to impede their performance in combat may have to transfer to Class S. You guys got your Field Training after all."

　Makes sense. The world is not that kind.
　I scanned the written exams' results while keeping Sensei's warning in mind.
　Might have to take remedial depending on my scores. Let's see...

"Whoaa, Kazuki-san came first on Device Engineering. She's incredible..."
"You too. You never took a course on the subject until you enrolled to this school did you? Look, over here. You're rank nine."
"Ah, you're right. Wait, when did you get here Kazuki-san."
"Fufu, I commend your effort. You did great, Sasahara-kun."
"You're really gonna make me blush. But yeah, I'm real happy with this result. It was worth taking all those lectures seriously."

　I checked my other classes and saw my name placed on single digits in all of them.
　Oh crap, it feels so good. I had never got scores this good until I came to this world.

"Attention please! I am done confirming your scores. I'm glad to see none of you have to take remedial. But still... Arariel, Kai, you only barely made it but you did well. Well done."
"Heh, gimme something if yer serious. You got a nice bod, didn't expect that."
"Hmph, go ahead if you can win against me. I ain't desperate enough to get in bed with a brat."
"Arariel... That's over the line..."
"Kai. Yours really only barely made it to the line. Think you better take that supplementary lesson."
"I'm sorry, I can't."

　Oh... The two of them made it.

"Well, I didn't really have anything to worry about with this class honestly. And, you Yuuki. You've really... taken me by surprise, in a good way."
"Frankly, the feeling's mutual. It's a good thing though, right?"
"Well I mean, you're ranked fourth between students who took the same amount of exams."
"Ha!? Darn it, you for real Yuuki! I'm a clown for studyin' with ya!"
"Uh no, you mostly played with your terminal with your notes open on the desk."

　I-is this that thing!? The rumored, 'Got praised by my parents at home when I reported'!? Wonder how it feels... This is the first time I got good rankings...

"At any rate, this makes zero of you taking supplementary lesson. I can move on to the next topic. Next week is the start of summer break, this school will have a few events going on during the break. First, the summer courses. Those who need more credits or want to learn more got nothing to lose by attending this course. For your information, I've got some other business to take care of in the meantime, someone else will teach Mana Application Study short course. Next up is the remedial, but this class don't need to hear it."

　Kai looked relieved. I'm glad for him, no really.
　Come to think of it, wonder if those who live in the dorm go back to their home?

"Ah, those who want to use the school facilities can register with their terminal by afternoon. I believe dorm boarders have received the handout, but just in case make sure to submit the application before the end of this week if you wish to stay."

　Ah, I see. Guess there will be some who stay in the campus.

"Selia-san, what's your plan for summer break?"
"My family told me to go back, so I'll be leaving for my home on the first day. What about you, Yuuki?"
"Me? I'm still undecided."
"Ah, are you? Then--"
"Oy, quit chatting you. I'm not done yet."

　Oh shoot. Thought Sensei was done already.

"Lastly, the summer boot camp. I believe some of you have participated in one in high school. It's a boot camp with academies, corporations and pro battler teams all over Japan as participants. A large scale boot camp where students, and future seniors and juniors gather together. The camp will be held abroad this year as an experiment. Come to the staff room later if you're interested. Note that the destination is even farther than your last Field Training. You will take both ship and plane to get there. Also, you need a passport since you're going overseas."
"That sounds too awesome! Eh, just how huge is the whole thing?"
"Oh? Are you interested, Sasahara. Each school has a quota of 30 students, and students who don't make the cut can't attend. All students from this class... no this whole school can attend no problem, interested? The boot camp lasts for ten days."
"Ah... It's gonna take ten whole days huh..."

　I don't think it's happening. There's no way Ixia-san will let me go overseas for ten whole days. She might relent if it were a mission, but it's a non-compulsory event after all.

"Anyone interested is free to consult me within this week. That concludes our meeting. There's no lab sessions this week, don't stay in campus too late now."

　Jen-sensei left the classroom... What's the reason behind her outfit anyway? Is she sensitive to heat? It was so erotic I wish I had taken the front seat.

"Hey, Kai, aren't you gonna join the boot camp?"
"Ah. I'm intrigued... But I'm gonna spend the entire summer break training in Grandia. Mikoto's dad is gonna take me to an arena there. I'm serious... about getting stronger. Just you wait, Yuuki."
"Ooh... That sounds real exciting. Oh man, can't believe they've got an arena there."
"Yeah. Apparently it's in a city in a remote region of Seryumieruach."

　That's so nice... It sounds so fantasy-like. I can't laze around either if he's gonna train in that kind of place.

"What should I do... Don't think my guardian will let me go."
"Hey, so Yuuki? I was about to ask you earlier, maybe you could--"

　Selia-san who had been wanting to say something timidly spoke.
　However. A certain person who can't read the room--

"Oho? Yuuki-kun, are you free this summer? How about visiting my family then? If I have to be frank, they've been telling me to 'invite the student who accomplished a great feat during the that big incident in Japan'. I actually wanted to ask you sooner, but I didn't want to impose on you... Do you mind?"
"Uee... Even Koune-san isn't immune to that stuff... Well, I guess you can't help it considering your position."
"You're so right. Well, personally I'm not really against it even if they chose you, Yuuki-kun, as my fiance, you know? You're cute and stronger than me. My old man will probably give his okay too, maybe?"
"You're jumping so many steps to conclusion there. I'm telling you it's still undecided. I gotta discuss with my guardian first."
"Is that right. My family would happily welcome your mom, just so you know okay? I'm sure they'll get along nicely."
"...Well, you two did hit it off cooking together."

　Koune-san's family huh... The fiance joke aside, visiting Grandia is a fascinating proposal. All the more if Ixia-san could come with me.

"Oh right, Selia-san, what's up?"
"Err... it's nothing... I think? Don't worry about it, Yuuki."
"Hmu? Okay then... Anyway, I don't have any plan right now. Would be nice if I could join the boot camp though."

　Guess I have nothing to lose asking her.
　That was when. An unfamiliar call tone rang on my terminal.
　What...?

"...Hello, Sasahara speaking."
『Oh, that went well. I have remotely installed an app that affords me a direct hotline to your terminal. Could you come to chairwoman office if you're still in the campus ground?』
"...I'm not gonna probe anymore, but what's up with your caller ID being 'Everyone's Porky'?"
『!? Who saved that as my name...』
"Can't be anyone but the person who installed the app, no? Chief Nishida maybe."
『Or her family member perhaps... She has a sibling that's quite a prankster.』
"Uhee... she's got it hard on family side too."
『Yes. In any case, please come by my office if you're still at school. There is something I need to discuss you with.』
"Understood. I'll be right there."

　Fumu, wonder if it's a mission? On summer break?

"Sorry, something came up, I gotta go. Hope you don't expect good news for my summer plan. I also need to go see my neglected family house."
"Yes, don't worry about it. I had to bring it up because my family pestered me. Just tell me anytime you changed your mind, okay."

　Koune-san huh... She's cute and her glutton side is rather charming... but she's also a mystery. Personally she feels a bit scary to me, like she's got this unknown side to her... Well, that description applies to pretty much everybody in this class though.



"It's Sasahara. Pardon me."
"Go ahead."

　Chairwoman was staring at a document when I came in her office.
　That's a huge stack of papers on her desk. Is she really reading every single piece?

"Thank you for coming, Yuuki-kun. And good work with your end-of-term exams."
"Thank you very much. Frankly, I was worried I couldn't keep up considering the circumstances around my enrollment and all."
"Fufu, did you really? Yet, you are among the top ranks in the whole school and aced the practical exams even with your limiter on. You have me proud as the person who granted you the endorsement."
"It's an honor. So... What's the occasion for my summon this time?"

　Chairwoman's jovial expression turned apologetic behind her mask.

"...It's a personal request from me. You are free to accept or decline. As you may have been informed already, there will be a boot camp taking place in the near future. A few students from foreign vocational schools abroad will be joining this boot camp on top of Japan-sent ones, including ours. I am currently selecting the members of our entourage."
"...Are you asking me to participate in this event?"
"Frankly, yes. A certain organization is plotting something for this boot camp. A certain country, I cannot say which, is planning to intervene and raid this boot camp under the pretext of solving the incident caused by this organization. A charade to make this country owe them a debt by saving the children holding the future of Japan."
"Then... this isn't a mission for me... but for Chairwoman's new trump card...?"
"Yes. You will take on that form in emergency and tell the world how conclusively you resolved the incident as the hound dog of Akimiya. Your power has been greatly honed during your time in this school. By showing off the true extent of your prowess both domestically and internationally... It should serve as a deterrent to foreign countries. That is to say... This is an underside mission. You're necessitated to stain your hands in blood. Of course, I don't mind if you are not willing."

　It's, finally here. It's time for me to work as the next generation Joker under Akimiya, not a bodyguard of my classmates.
　There's two things that need to be addressed though.

"Chairwoman. Personally I don't mind taking on this mission, but there are two issues."
"What are those issues?"
"I've been honing my combat style as Sasahara Yuuki. My Physical Boost may have improved but I can't really say I'm not worried about going all out using a completely different combat style than my usual one. Please let me train somewhere I can go all out at."
"I see, very well. I'll lend you a stadium on the mainland this weekend. Have a mock battle with the most powerful class of forces I will have ready."
"Most powerful class... You mean, your current trump card...?"
"Two steps below if I have to say. Several people like you do exist. I believe the you now have a chance at triumphing. I expect great thing."

　So they're gonna be even stronger than the Underworld Survey Team units I fought last time.
　I'm getting kinda excited. The last one was pretty much an instant kill.

"And what is the second issue?"
"...I'm gonna have to stay abroad for ten days, aren't I? I don't think I can get Ixia-san to agree to that."
"...Ah."

　Chairwoman immediately put her hands on her head. Uh... I wish you luck persuading her.

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