Chapter 46: Arrival at Kyoto.
*Bullet train*
It was roughly ten minutes after the bullet train had left Tokyo station.
Alex woke up 5 minutes ago and started messing with me as soon as he lifted his body up. Right now, he is in the WC, taking a piss.
KNOCK KNOCK.
Suddenly, the door our cabin sounded.
I opened the door to see Xenovia standing in front of me. Her first words were:
"Vergil, I want to tell you something."
"What is it, Xenovia?"
"I did not bring Durandal this time. I am unarmed."
Huh? Why?
"You didn't bring Durandal? Why?"
"Yes, I think it's the alchemists belonging to the Orthodox Church. They discovered a technique to suppress Durandal's offensive aura. Hence, Durandal has been sent over to them via channels belonging to Heaven."
The Orthodox Church was another major faction within the Church, but they did not help much in the Excalibur recovery affair... Xenovia laughed ironically.
"Even the Orthodox Church is coming out to help. Looks like it must be due to the efforts of the Seraphim under Michael-sama's leadership. However, it is still a rare opportunity to have those alchemists reforge the sword."
Due to the current alliance, it seemed like the conflicts between Christian factions have also lessened. Xenovia continued.
"To suppress Durandal's offensive aura without diminishing its power as a Holy Sword, this is really something that caught my interest. However, it is truly shameful for me to be unable to control it properly despite being the owner of Durandal... How can I call myself a Knight? Am I better off dead...? Oh, Lord..."
And there goes the self-abuse…
"Alright alright, no more self-loathing. If anything happens, just use Ascalon."
I said as I took the Ascalon out of the Boosted Gear and give it to her.
"Yes. Much appreciated for always lending me this sword.", said Xenovia as she receives the sword.
"It's fine, I have other swords. Just make sure you yourself improve, okay?"
"Thank you, Vergil"
Having said that, Xenovia left.
As I was about to close the door, I noticed Kiba came into this car after Xenovia left.
"Ya, Vergil-san", he greeted me.
"Kiba"
"Can I sit beside you?"
"Hmm…Sure"
Kiba then took the empty couch in the cabin.
"By the way, Vergil-san, where is Alex-san?"
"He's taking a piss in the WC"
And a rather long one, it's already been 5 minutes.
"So what is it?", I asked.
"I wanted to know your itinerary once you get there. So that there's a plan in case of emergencies.", said Kiba.
Hmm, preparing beforehand huh.
Clever boy.
"So what's your class' plan tomorrow?"
"We'll starting our tour from Sanjuusangen-dou, you?"
"Alex and I have a rather messy itinerary, we'll be at various places for the investigation, but the most notable, in order of travel, would be Kinkaku-ji, Ginkaku-ji, the temple of Kiyomizu-dera. And finally, Tenryuu-ji."
"Tenryuu-ji? Our class is planning on going there on the third day. We may very well meet at the Togetsu bridge. What about the last days?"
"Town travel and finishing the alibi assignments"
Our course is basically almost opposite to that of the kids, we might meet up at Tenryuu-ji though. But that's not the main concern. Also, we have to finish the assignments to make our alibi viable, so we have one more day than the kids.
"Vergil-san, did you join the activity with the various Maou-sama?"
"Yeah… a rather ridiculous activity."
A few days ago, Rias and I participated in a mysterious Gremory family ritual. In the banquet that night, her parents were very happy and lavished me with praise. At the banquet, there were also things like banners proclaiming 'Congratulations young mistress, young master!'. I have no idea about the purpose of the ritual, but since it seems that it did no harm, I decided not to care too much about it.
"After the ritual, Ajuka Beelzebub gave me a special suggestion."
"Special suggestion?"
"It's about the compatibility between the characteristics of the Mutation Pieces and the Sekiryuutei's power. So far, when using Ddraig's power, I have been unable to fully unleash the [Queen]'s potential."
It's not about my limit, but rather despite the [Juggernaut Drive] has been conquered, for some reason, my [Queen] promotion became unstable as the exchange. I was a bit lucky that it didn't go nuclear and blew up the whole Kuoh town, due to the potency of my Nephilim powers. Thanks to the training I've been personally conducted, as well as the spars we had as a group, the other promotions, [Knight]; [Rook] and [Bishop] are all balanced, but still unrefined.
I rarely used promotion, due to like I already stated, the enhancements aren't exactly worth mentioning, even though my pieces are all Mutated Pieces. But it seems that the path to greater strength would requires me to make use of this, by extending it beyond the basic of a [Pawn]'s functions.
"Ajuka Beelzebub suggested me to master the use of [Rook] and [Knight], in order to make full use of the enhancement that the Sekiryuutei's powers will provide. Thanks to that, I was reminded that I barely used [Promotion]"
"Is that why you used the [Rook] against Sairaorg-san?"
"Yeah, also to test out the Nano Gilgamesh reinforcer. I need more power, and to do so… it's seems that I'll have to focus on the promotion of each specialized pieces, which will potentially augment the Sekiryuutei's flexibility."
After all, even the immense [Juggernaut Drive] can't be unleashed so freely. First, it's too big for combat in enclosed space. Two, despite its' blinding speed, the mobility is somewhat even worse than the basic Scale Mail, which is already inferior to the Scale Mail Omega. Finally, its' destructive powers are too wild to manage in small skirmishes, so it's best to use in open warzones.
Hearing that, Kiba laughed.
"Hahaha! It seems that Vergil-san will become stronger again. You really work hard towards exploring your new powers."
"If I can't control it properly, then Urizen or Khaos Brigade would have all the time in the world to sit back and watch."
"Yes, though to be honest, for a devil from Buchou's generation to fight evenly with you on a pure contest of power, he is truly a great threat. And with bare hands too. Amongst the young devils, no, all upper-class devils, Sairaorg-san must be the only one who can damage Vergil-san's armor unarmed. In fact, my own defense would be like paper to him. Furthermore, his speed was amazing and he clearly wasn't going all out. Not only me, but all the other servants will be critically injured if they receive a direct hit from him. Though, you were able to send him flying on him at the start. You sure are amazing."
That fellow gave his frank opinion as usual.
Maybe that's among the reasons why I can trust him this much.
Though, Sairaorg wasn't at full strength at the time, so we can't be sure just yet.
"Also, Vergil-san, will you buy souvenirs?"
"Don't worry about us. We have more time the you kids do… I'll think about it then."
There's still a missing Kitsune to find, and a very important one.
"I understand"
After that, Kiba left. I closed the door.
I then stretched my back and closed my eyes. ...There was still some time till we arrived in Kyoto. I decided to delve into the depths of the Sacred Gear. There's only one goal doing this: To talk to the past Sekiryuuteis.
Closing my eyes and entrusting my consciousness to Ddraig, I dived into the depths of my Boosted Gear.
...
...Leaving the darkness, I arrived in a white space. A vast, pure white space. On the various round tables and chairs, the Boosted Gear's past possessors were sitting with their heads high and blank expressions on their faces.
"Hello, idiots. It's me again"
…
Still silent treatment, aye…
Whatever. I then checked the Harvester to see that it still purrs wonderfully. As expected from our joint creation.
I then randomly walked around. Suddenly, a figure caught my eyes. A young man who seems to be at my exact age, with a small build than me.
I had no response either. I then heard Ddraig talk.
[Amongst the past Sekiryuutei, he is probably the youngest. A real genius who awakened Juggernaut very early. -However, he was drunk on power and was carelessly killed by another Longinus wielder.]
"Not the Hakuryuukou?", I asked.
[When drunk on power, they will rampage even if the opponent is not the Hakuryuukou. There are also others like that amongst the Hakuryuukou. Juggernaut can allow a person to become a tyrant for a period of time... But no matter what era, tyrants will not prosper for long, it is something that cannot last. This is the truth.]
Ddraig's tone of voice sounded like he was talking about himself. After all, he used to be drunk on power too.
"I have to admit, my opinion about them hasn't change… still, these dumbasses must have treasured whatever that was precious to them at some point of their lives."
I can sense that some of them are tyrants without remorse, yet some… actually give off the feeling that they seek power to compensate for the loss of that they hold dear.
Just like me once…
"I, who am about to awaken, am the Heavenly Dragon who has stolen the principles of Domination from God...?"
[Partner.]
"Don't worry, I'm not going to chant it all. We already have countermeasures, and I rather use this conquered power on the scums."
Now that I just mention the chant, there's a part that intrigues me.
"I laugh at the "infinite", and I grieve at the "dream"… I can already deduce that the "infinite" implied Ophis, the Uroboros Dragon, but what about the "Dream"?"
It was just as I raised questions about that key word in the [Juggernaut Drive] chant.
[Infinite refers to Ophis, while Dream means Great Red. Sneering at Ophis and despising the mysterious Great Red, who is also a red Dragon. It's a mystery who came up with this chant. I wonder if it was God himself?]
—!
A third voice?
I turned my head around to find a young woman with long wavy blonde hair, as well as a slim and trim figure, standing there. She was a beautiful lady wearing a full-body dress with a high slit.
Full of smiles, she looked at me.
[Elsha?]
[Yes~, Ddraig. It's been a while.]
The lady casually greeted.
[Partner, this is Elsha, foremost among the past Sekiryuutei. Of all the female wielders, she is definitely the strongest.]
Hoh? So she is the strongest female Sekiryuutei?
Come to think of it, I have never seen her before.
Where did she come from?
[Among all the lingering memories, there are only two exceptions. I am one of them. Well, even within the Sacred Gear, I am hidden very deep, so I usually don't come out here much.]
[...I thought you and Belzard were never coming out again.]
[Don't say something like that, Ddraig. Belzard and I are always silently supporting you from the depths. We used to be partners after all. Anyway, he is going to lose his consciousness soon...]
The lady showed a slightly lonely expression.
[Belzard seems to have taken an interest in the current Sekiryuutei, who has reached the realm of the gods and subdued [Juggernaut Drive], so I came.]
"By the way, who is Belzard?"
Ddraig answered my question.
[He ranks up there with Elsha. Belzard is the strongest male Sekiryuutei. He's truly a strong one who even defeated the Hakuryuukou twice… Though if we were to compare to you now, then he is now the second strongest male Sekiryuutei]
That'll depends, since I don't really consider the fight at Kuoh Academy I had with Vali a win, a draw at best.
[Anyway, I would like you to have this.]
What she took out was—a box with a keyhole.
[You already received a 'key' from the current Beelzebub, right?]
"A key?"
Suddenly, with a flash of light, a small key appeared in my hand. Without involving my conscious will, the key popped out by itself. Was this the 'key' I received from Ajuka Beelzebub? The once strongest female Sekiryuutei, Elsha smiled and said.
[The so-called 'key' isn't literal. The box and keys are just metaphors to make things easier to understand. What is contained in this box are the delicate possibilities of the Sekiryuutei. Originally, it is something that cannot be opened nor recklessly faced. However, Belzard says 'You can definitely do it'. Of course, because it is you who has received the Evil Pieces, that is why we feel you will be able to do it.]
Suddenly, she began to laugh.
[Fufufufu! Dragon Overlord! Oumaryuutei! I watched it with Belzard together. After coming to this place, it was the first time he and I were able to laugh to our hearts' content. Truly it intepreted the strength of a true Heavenly Dragon]
That anime huh…
It's not a bad show…
Still, for them to see it…
[Don't be shy. And Ddraig, please don't get depressed. Lighten up a bit. There has never been a Sekiryuutei this fun. By blowing apart that ominous Juggernaut Drive chant, the gentle, soothing song of Oumaryuutei who breaks all the unreasonable really made Belzard and me happy. Since whether it was Belzard or I, neither of us came to a proper end...], she said as she handed the box to me.
…
So they also heard it… her song…
…
[So he and I, we decided to believe in you.]
I took the box and inserted the 'key' into the keyhole... A perfect fit. It must have been made as a set.
[You and the current Hakuryuukou are unique existences. Not only competing between the two of you, but each having your own set of targets. How should I put it, it makes the rest of us look like fools. Please open it. But remember to take responsibility and not give up halfway. No matter what happens, you must accept it joyfully.]
I know…
For I still have my nightmares to face…
I then turned the key—and with a click the box unlocked. In that instant, I was enveloped by a blinding light—
…
...Opening my eyes, I was on the bullet train once more.
'...Was that a dream? Ddraig?'
[No, you did receive the box from Elsha and opened it.]
'...Is that so? Then, what was in the box?'
[No idea.]
Oi oi oi.
Hmm?
…
'Why didn't I feel any different? How's the Sacred Gear?'
[No change either... However, I noticed something flying out from the box...]
…
...Whaaaaaaat!?
What kind of blunder is this!?
I then hurriedly searching around the closed. If that thing, my new line of possibilities, just disappear like that, then that is no laughing matter!
[Don't worry. It is something that belongs to you, so it will surely come back to you. Your fate is in your hands.]
…
You not even slightly worry, aren't you? Be more cautious, even if it just a little.
"Yo, Vergil, what are you doing?", said Alex as he returned from the WC.
…
No, let's not tell him for now, too many uncertainties, now that the thing is missing.
"Oh, nothing, I just slipped as I woke up, that's all. You took a rather long piss", I said.
Alex replies with a wry smile.
"Yeah, I had a rather… extensive breakfast this morning."
Why is he blushing?
…
!
Perhaps…
"Does that breakfast relate to that girl back in the peace conference?", I asked with an amused tone.
"B-Bruh!", said Alex as he frowned, his cheeks got even redder.
"Whatever you say, pal. Anyway, we'll be arriving to Kyoto soon, be ready", I said as both of us became serious.
Let's hope that this mission goes well.
So that this country won't be plunged into chaos and destruction. Both which are the last things I need right now.
*Arrival*
As I finished eating the seaweed rice balls specially made by Asia, an announcement came on.
"We are arriving at Kyoto presently."
Were here. Alex was already up. We got our luggage and got off the train.
Hmm…
My first time at this ancient capital. The air… is rather refreshing.
We went through the tickets checkpoint. Such a huge station. The roof of the station was covered by a huge atrium.
Well, Kyoto is a major tourist attraction, of course they would go all out.
"Look, Asia! It's Isetan!"
"Yes, yes! Xenovia! It's Isetan!"
I looked to see among the kids, Xenovia and Asia are excited. They were pointing at everything. They sure look happy.
"Come on, let's not make a scene.", said Raynare, being responsible.
"I really want to build a spectacular train station like this in Heaven too.", said Irina.
What's the point of a train when Angels can fly?
"Let's go, we still have a mission to complete", I said.
"Yeah", confirmed Alex.
I then took out my phone, and opened the Map app.
"Hmm, the hotel is quite near the station... Just now we exited from the west checkpoint... Walking in the direction of the bus station, and then taking a right..."
We look at the direction as we walked to the hotel. The base that we were provided is a high-class twin room in a hotel owned by the Grigori, with Azazel's human guise name being the front. It's called "Kyoto Grigori Hotel".
On the way, we walked pass the "Kyoto Sirzechs Hotel". So the guy's name is influential even in the ancient capital's tourism industry. I see that the students of Kuoh Academy moved into that Hotel.
So that's where the kids are gonna stay. The hotel was said to be run by the Gremory family from behind the scenes since the students could book rooms for very cheap.
As a side note, also nearby was the 'Kyoto Serafall Hotel' under construction. It seems like they really want to take over the entire Tourism industry
It took us a good 15 minutes to finally arrive at that place.
As we are now standing in front of the hotel.
"*Whistle*… this is fancy", said Alex.
"Indeed", I agreed.
The place we'll be staying for the next 4 days and 3 nights, is a massive skyscraper hotel. A giant, 30 story-tall, black building that looks more like an international corporation tower than a hotel. As we entered the place, Alex and I showed our ID to the employees.
"Ah yes, Takeru Silver-san and Alex Nash-san. Please wait for a moment, we'll finish the preparations of the room for you."
Said the staff as he left after giving us detailed instructions to the lobby.
We then entered the lobby filled with luxurious, shiny, obsidian black-colored décor and took our seat at a sofa to wait.
"Usually, if we were to go on a covert investigation, a luxurious hotel such as this would be a rather bad choice", I said.
Buildings of this kind literally stood out the most in a city. And since we actually got a room among the top floors, a perfect spot for assassination.
Hearing that, Alex said.
"Maybe, but as students of Kuoh University, we need to look the part and took residence at places assigned by the new Principal. Besides, I doubt that the security of this place, provided by the Grigori, would be that loose."
Hmm, I would have bought that had it not been for the hassles made by Azazel's inventions.
Still, since it was Shemhaza who requested us, maybe I can trust this place a bit more than I usually would.
As we continued with the random chit-chat, a female employee approached us.
"Your room is ready sir."
We stood up and followed her to the elevator. Upon getting in, she pressed the button with the label of number 20 on it.
After a while in the elevator with the music played all the way, we finally arrived at our floor. We walked through several rooms in a rather long corridor, before stopping at our designated room.
"Here's your key sir. Please, enjoy your time", said the female attendant as she gives us the key.
"Thank you", I replied as I received the key.
After the attendant left, we opened the door to see a spacious black and white western-styled twin room, with a full window view to the local area, included the Kyoto station.
We started unpacking our luggage. Most of them are huge bags that carries the equipment sent to us by the Grigori.
Inter-dimensional scanner, spiritual influx scanner, multi analyzer…
It's like we're setting up a lab here.
"You know, with you "Eidos Senses", we won't even need these.", said Alex as he assembles the components of the analyzer.
"The higher functions of "Eidos Senses" that will cover more purposes than these devices here would consume too much magical energy to use, I'm not a fan of being low on energy if we were to have a sudden fight. Besides, even if it's me, analyzing the evidences and surroundings would take the amount of time that is a luxury we can't afford. Having these would solve that issue."
"And not using the devices would make the researchers and engineers of the Fallen Angel side feel bad, right?", Alex asked.
"Yeah, after all, they did put a lot of effort in making them. Also, these will be a great support for us to finish the assignment quickly", I replied.
Our alibi assignment will involve tons of measurements and analysis, so having all of the equipment to help us shorten the time to finish significantly. By the way, finishing the assignment also came with a perk: We can choose to skip any 3 classes in the later years of our choosing. A perfect score will be registered into our resumé, and we'll have free slots to select other subjects.
This is good, since I can rid myself from studying ridiculously boring subjects, while having more free time to do what I need to do… which is obvious.
The war with Urizen is going to be a long one, for my journey of pursuing new strength will also be a long one.
…
SHAKE.
No, now isn't the time. First thing's first.
"We already sum things up back home, but I'm going to revise everything again, just in case. Within the first 3 days, we'll go through the streets of Kyoto that showed signs of abnormalities and the specific landmarks of Kinkaku-ji, Ginkaku-ji, the temple of Kiyomizu-dera. And finally, Tenryuu-ji, all are major power spots of Kyoto. We'll investigate, and try to find the missing Kyuubi, who had likely been kidnapped."
Alex nodded.
"And after that, we'll spend the remaining time to finish the assignment, and then everyone goes home, happy", he said.
As expected from my best friend, you know things right away when it's serious.
"Now then, 1 hour to take showers and rest. Then, we'll begin", I finalized the revision.
Hopefully we can get this done in time.
So I can go back and deal with that thing, Urizen…
*Later*
After our 1-hour rest, Alex and I walked through several streets that shows high level of abnormal fluctuations in the spiritual laylines.
Another hour of walking and scanning the streets passed…
"Nothing, again…", I said holding the palm-size scanner that only shows normal readings.
We took a seat on a random stone bench. I went to a vending machine and bought two canned juices. I handed one for Alex, before opening mine to drink.
As we were refilling, even though we can still go on…
"Whoever kidnapped the Kyuubi must be good at hiding their tracks.", said Alex as he gulped his can.
"And they were wise at choosing their routes. These streets are usually crowded with people, coupling with the occasional position shift of the leylines, skilled individuals would be able to slip into that massive flow of combined spiritual energy, and hide away their presences."
Even with "Eidos Senses", I wasn't able to detect a thing, even if I isolated the distinctive signals of the laylines and others, it's either normal humans' or animals' spiritual flows, no sign of supernatural signals. Whoever managed to hide from this, must be able to blend in to the aura lines of humans…
… or humans disguised their special powers…
If I have to take a chance…
Then it would be the latter.
Khaos Brigade, despite the Old-Maou Faction are now effectively collapsed, there's still the Hero Faction that is still at large. Since the latter is now the largest Faction in that terrorist organization, it's only logical to conclude that most of the current terrorist activities would be their doing, especially with the hassle of those Hero Faction teams that has been disturbing the town recently.
"*Sigh*… it seems that the power spots are still the most viable place, right?", said Alex.
"They're the only option left", I replied as I shrugged.
…
A silence took place as we both enjoy the fresh air of the old capital.
I took a breath in…
…
Warm, peaceful, yet also filled with the upbeat spirit of the people living here…
No wonder why Rias loves this place so much.
…
"Now that I remembered it, how did you come up with the idea to use Gilgamesh nanomachines to reinforce your defenses?", asked Alex, breaking the silence.
"Hmm? Oh, that. Nothing special really. I just randomly came up with a few ideas to make use of the leftover supply of Gilgamesh, the application of Nano technology just came in the right moment, that's all."
"I see… but I think you could have used the metal to make a sword, like… a katana, that at least will temporarily substitutes for the Yamato. I know that the end product won't be as good as your original sword, but it's still better to bring out your original combat style, right?"
Substitute for the Yamato…
SHAKE.
No, not a good idea.
"That might look good on paper, but it won't do, Alex. I'm in hiding, the less resemblance of my past self that I give off, the less likely for my enemies to recognize me."
"Oh…right…"
…
Another silence huh…
But we don't have time to waste.
"Come on, let's go, we don't have all day."
Hearing that, Alex said.
"Ah! Two more questions."
"Then we'll talk along the way."
We then embarked to the first power spot.
*At Fushimi Inari*
We are now inside the Fushimi Inari temple.
No… it's not part of the pre-planned destination, but the scanners picked up abnormal signals here.
Along our way here, Alex asked me about the Holy God Sword Zea's condition, as well as the black sword that I commonly use.
For the latter… well… it's rather complicated.
*Flashback*
"You lost Zea!?"
Azazel screamed.
"Hey, don't even think about throwing a tantrum at me. I didn't even think that it would just disappear."
*Flashback ends*
Yes…
During the battle with Loki, I was dragged into the Boosted Gear by both the negative influences of the past possessors and Urizen's interference. I was saved by not only Akeno's mother, Shuri, but also by an unexpected figure, the Legendary Holy Hero, Kanon Nedra I. Using the Holy God Sword Zea, he drove Urizen away and gave me the opportunity to not only conquer [Juggernaut Drive], but also saved a tragic family from suffering further.
After the battle, I checked on the Zea to see whether it was still in me, as the figure of Kanon was too real to be a simple projection. And the result… it was gone.
Kanon took it with him…
No.
It was natural for him to take it, it was his sword after all, and he needed it to fight against Urizen. Talking about that, I haven't seen any of Urizen's activities since that battle.
Is he locked in battle with Kanon? Or…
…
Why am I thinking about it?
I'm grateful that Kanon was there to help us, but this battle, and Urizen, they're mine.
As for the black sword that I use, Alex questioned me of whether I simply made it using my demonic power.
The answer is… no.
I did not create this sword.
It is something rather… mysterious.
Back before the engagement party that Rias was forced to marry to Riser, when I just awakened and got back to the real world, I already had it in my hand.
It is a typical colored Western sword with a length of ninety centimeters and a width of twelve centimeters. There wasn't a single simple engraving on the sword. Just a plain jet-black color coated the entire weapon. Though its' silhouette does resemble the Excalibur in the old books of Camelot.
I didn't find a single thing special about this sword that I've been wielding. But as a rather strong demonic weapon that can even clash with the likes of Kokabiel, or Kiba's Holy Demonic swords, which completely surpassed 4 Excaliburs merged together, it's too good of a weapon to throw away.
So I decided to keep it, maybe I'll find out the "special" of it someday? One can only tell so much.
Anyway, back to the present. We followed the strange signals on the scanner to the Fushimi Inari temple. Right now, we're climbing the stairs filled with red Toriis. After a few minutes of speeding, we reached the top of the mountain.
...At the top of the mountain was an old shrine. Was this the peak? T he path did branch off to other directions along the way. Due to the dense foliage, there was barely any sunlight, and we were surrounded by a slight shade. The sound of rustling... The wind was blowing through the trees. It really felt deserted. Other than me and Alex, there was not a single soul.
Alex, while there, paid his respects to the shrine. I didn't care and continued to look around with the scanner… until I felt several presents.
"...Not from Kyoto?"
—
A voice was suddenly heard. As I look around… so we're surrounded.
"Vergil", said Alex as he runs over.
"Back-to-back"
Upon my words, we have our backs on each other.
There are clearly many inhuman presences, not very strong individually, but they are numerous. In that moment, a little girl in a Miko outfit appeared before me.
"…A child?"
Her blonde hair was shining, and both her irises were also gold-colored. She seemed to be around the age of a young primary school student. But she was clearly not human judging from the things on her head. —Animal ears. They were similar to Koneko's, but they are fox ears instead of cat's ears. That furry mass behind her must be the tail, and by its' appearance… a fox tail.
Hmm… a young Kitsune huh…
"Outsider! How dare you...!? Attack!"
At the girl's command, many fellows with black wings and crow heads who were dressed like mountain hermits stepped out of the trees. There were also some others with fox masks who were dressed like priests.
"Karasu-Tengus… and foxes?"
The young Kitsune pointed at us and yelled.
"Give my mother back!"
The Tengus and the fox priests began to attack. We dodged their blades and spears with minimal movements and pushed them away.
"Mother!? What are you talking about!? We don't know who your mother is!", Alex shouted at the girl.
"I don't even know who you are, child.", I said with a low voice.
"Don't lie! My eyes cannot be deceived!"
This brat…
As I was about to move to the offensive, a Tengu's staff came smashing down upon me.
As the staff was closing in…
CLANG!
The one who blocked the opponent's staff was—
"What's the matter, Vergil?"
"What are these? Youkai?"
"Of course. What did you expect?"
Xenovia, Irina and Raynare arrived out of nowhere. Xenovia and Irina were carrying wooden swords. They must have purchased them from the local specialty stores that scattered around here. Asia also hurried over a little later. Seeing the six of us gathered, the young girl and her group showed surprise, but instantly became even more angry.
"...Is that so? You people are the ones who... My mother! Unforgivable! Unclean Devils! Unclean fallen angel! You have tainted this sacred place! I will not forgive you!"
We closed in to make a group. I then asked the 4 of them.
"Why are you kids here?"
"We came here quite a while ago and was coming down, Senpai. But then all of us noticed strange presences up here, so we came back.", said Raynare.
Hmm, their instincts have gotten sharper.
But now isn't the time for pep talk.
"Asia, focus on healing", I ordered.
"Yes!"
I then move to give order to the other three.
"Irina, Xenovia, Raynare. though I haven't figured out the situation yet, remember that this is Kyoto. Though they attacked unreasonably, we can't hurt them or the area. Just drive them back."
I don't want to do the clean-up of this place because we were reckless.
" " "Understood!" " "
The three of them immediately agreed.
WHACK!
The young girl's companions attacked all at once. Xenovia and Irina used their wooden swords to knock them down, breaking their enemies' weapons as they defeated them. Alex and Raynare skillfully employ their light swords and light spears, disarming the attacking Youkais. I casually took out the assailants as I guarded Asia, who has little offensive capabilities.
Feeling they have lost the upperhand, the attackers begin to retreat. The girl glared hatefully at us and raised her hand.
"...Retreat. We don't have enough numbers to beat them. Damn you, evil existences. I will make you give mother back!"
Leaving behind those words, the girl and her followers disappeared like a gust of wind.
What the hell is this?
First the Kyuubi went missing, and now a Kitsune little girl want to find her mother?
All of us puzzled over why we would suddenly get attacked.
Hmm…
Maybe there's a connection…
*Night*
First night of the investigation trip, as well as the first night at Kyoto for the kids.
[Thanks for the meal!]
We had dinner at the hotel me and Alex are staying in. It was a luxurious feast of Kyoto cuisine. The boiled tofu was really delicious. The tofu skin felt so tender and soft... Kyoto vegetables were also uncommonly tasty. The kids insisted to come here and have a meal with us, instead of joining their classmates by the way, I was unable to refuse.
After the hassle with the young Kitsune and her subordinates, we came back to the Grigori hotel, only to see Azazel and Rossweisse waiting at the lobby. It was natural for Azazel to be here, since he's the owner, Rossweisse seems to simply tagging along with him.
We reported what happened to the two of them, who became puzzled greatly.
'Why would we get attacked in Kyoto?'. This was the hardest point to understand.
The fact that the kids, who are Devils and Angel, were visiting Kyoto for a tour, as well as us who went for the investigation, should have been conveyed to the rulers of this place beforehand. Azazel said he would confirm it once again.
By the way, my new possibilities are still missing. I also told Azazel about it.
"If they will return to you one day, then waiting is a solution. Just be patient for the duration of the investigation. However, I will ask some of my subordinates here to look out and report back for anything matching your description."
He replied so. Hmm… guess I'll have to wait then. Nothing good comes out from being rush.
After the meal, we walked the kids back to their residence. On our way back to our place, we heard a lot of explosive sounds came from the kids' hotel. We came back to check whether it was an attack, but the staffs just say that the explosion came from the area of the women's bathroom. My guess, is that either an accident occurred, or the Perverted Duo got punished for trying to peep.
Anyway, it's none of our concern. Alex and I returned to our room at the 20th floor to rest.
"Man, a whole day without finding any evidence, and the only thing new was an attack by a little girl who wants to find her mother.", said Alex as he lying down on his bed.
"No surprise, the attack that is. Understanding that little Kitsune's motive, you can't really blame her.", I said.
Looking at that child's eyes, I can tell that she isn't lying. She really wants to get her mother back, from whatever happened to her.
"Still, I have some concerns related to that little girl"
"What is it?"
"It's rather uncommon for one little girl to have so many subordinates, all of them are highly trained, as well as alongside the little girl, wear formal outfits. So they can't be any sort of Youkai gangs"
"Hmm…"
If we go with that flow, then the little girl must have belonged to one of the high-class families that governs Kyoto alongside the Kyuubi, who by the legends, obviously the queen who stands at the top.
Hmm…
KNOCK KNOCK.
We then heard someone knocking the door.
I stood up to look through the peaking hole on the door.
"It's me."
It's Azazel.
I then opened the door.
"Ya, sorry to disturb your brainstorming moment."
Azazel then enters our room.
"Wow, you changed the place a lot.", he said.
"We have to set up the equipment set, so there are changes that needed to be made. So what are you here for, Azazel?", I asked.
"Oh, we've been summoned. To a nearby restaurant."
"By who?"
"A very cute Maou Shoujo-sama."
*The restaurant*
I, Alex, as well as the Gremory group plus Irina and Raynare went to the restaurant at the corner of the street.
"...The 'Dairaku' restaurant. For Serafall to be here..."
Hmm, so she entered Kyoto. We received Serafall's invitation. At this point, after passing through the path filled with traditional Japanese atmosphere, a single room appeared.
Opening the door—Serafall was quietly waiting for us, sitting in the seiza stance and wearing a glamorous kimono.
"Hello! It's been a while, Vergil-chan and servants of Rias-chan!" , said Serafall as she greeted us with joy.
Her hair was tied up today to match the theme.
*Sigh*
Lucky that no one's around, some could have heard my real name. Who knows to trust among these people in this restaurant.
"Oh, Vergil-senpai, Alex-senpai, and you guys."
Saji and the second year Sitri kids were here too.
"Yo Saji, so how was your trip in Kyoto?", asked Alex.
"We're the Student Council, Alex-senpai. We spent the whole afternoon helping the teachers."
Saji sighed as he spoke. It can't be helped. As members of the Student Council, it's their duty to help lessen the teachers' burdens.
"The food here is really good. Especially the chicken dishes are exquisite. Vergil-chan, you and Saji-kun must really eat up."
We had hardly taken our seats when Serafall immediately ordered more dishes like mad. But we just ate dinner...
But since she already ordered, it would be a waste to not eat these…
I took a bite of a chicken…
…
Fine, maybe eating a bit won't hurt.
"So why are you here, Serafall?"
To my question, she made a kiraboshi pose and replied.
"I came here to secure the cooperation of the Kyoto Youkai forces. As well as assisting you and Alex-chan on your mission"
Hmm… As expected of the one in charge of foreign affairs, she was doing her job dutifully. So, she was negotiating with the Youkai forces.
Then, Serafall puts her chopsticks down, a frown appearing on her face.
"But...it looks like there is an unusual situation."
"Let me guess, because the Kyuubi is missing?"
She nodded immediately.
"I also heard your report from Azazel-chan. I fear... that is the situation.", said Serafall.
Azazel drank heavily as he downed his alcohol in one go, and then said.
"So the leader of the Youkai indeed has been kidnapped. The ones responsible—"
"Most likely, it's the Khaos Brigade."
Serafall concluded most solemnly.
Hmm… an unexpected Jackpot.
"Also, Vergil-chan, the little girl who attacked your group… she's the Kyuubi's daughter", the latter added.
…
…
"Y-you guys, what kind of trouble have you got mixed up in again?"
Saji's eye began to twitch slightly.
"Really, taking care of these kids for the trip is already tiring enough. How vexing these terrorists.", said Azazel as he wasn't amused by Khaos Brigade's involvement.
Serafall then poured another cup for him and continued.
"No matter what, this situation cannot be disclosed. We must solve it ourselves. I will continue to attempt to get the youkai to cooperate."
"Understood. I will act alone. Really, these terrorists bringing their trouble all the way to Kyoto."
"Alex and I will continue our investigation.", I said as Alex nodded.
I then turn to the kids.
"In any case, you kids should enjoy your School trip."
"Eh, but..."
Kiba tried to protest, but Azazel began to rub his head with his hand.
"If anything happens, We will call you guys. However, this is your precious school trip, right? We adults will try to handle the situation as much as possible. So you all go enjoy Kyoto for now. Also…"
He then whispers into Kiba's ear.
"I see… I understand", said Kiba with a smile,
I wonder what are they talking so secretly about.
"Yes. You all should enjoy your time in Kyoto. I will also enjoy myself!", said Serafall.
With that, the supper/discussion ended, and we all went back to our respective hotels.
*Later*
As we were walking back to our hotel, we enjoyed the air of the late night.
"So that little Kitsune is the Kyuubi's daughter huh…", I said.
"Quite a revelation today huh…", said Alex.
…
Everything is going to be alright, Vergil, Mia, everyth…
(Blood splatter violently)
NOOOOOOO!
…
…
!
I then felt a dark presence behind me, so did Alex.
As we both turned around…
"Grhhhhhhh!"
A black panther with muscular forelimbs, and red eyes with visible white sclera. Its body features glowing lines pulsating faintly whenever it moves.
"A black panther!? Here!?", said Alex.
Hmm…
No…
Somethings off about that "panther"…
UUUUNN.
The body of the beast started to ooze dark aura.
LEAP1
It then leaps forward… and morphs into a saw blade!
""Woah!""
We dodged to the sides just in time.
As I turned around to face the beast…
"Guryaaaa!"
It roared as it pounced on me!
"Vergil!", screamed Alex.
"Urghh!"
The beast then tried to bite me a few times. Then…
SPIN!
Its' head turned into a narrow drill, and it tried to pierce me!
DOON!
DOON!
I dodged twice to the sides in accordance to the trajectory of the drill.
"Get off me!"
I said as I kicked the black panther away.
As it was in the air, it then makes a backflip, before landing and crouching down, readying for another pounce.
"Ok… you want a piece of me? Come and get it.", I said as I draw out my black sword and also crouched down for a pounce.
Come on…
…
!
LEAP!
Both me and the dark beast pounced at the same time, but…
"Too slow!"
I was faster, as I caught its' neck. I spun around it like a spinning on a pole, before land both my feet on the ground…
PIERCE!
…and drive my blade through the exposed abdomen of the beast.
"Guraaaaaaaa!"
The panther cried out in agony as it tries to break free. Blood-like black substant splattered wildly to the ground
"Grhhh!"
I grunted as I twist my blade violently, ripping the beast in two.
"Fuuu."
I exhaled a breath as I wiped the black substant off the blade with a simple mean swing.
"Vergil! Are you alright?", asked Alex as he approaches me.
"Yeah… I'm fine", I replied.
"That was a…"
"…Shadow", I followed.
"A what?"
"A Shadow, a beast of a race of ancient bestial demons, they composed of pure darkness and shadow."
To think that I would see one here…
But something is unusual with this one, like I said…
Normally, there's no way to attack them head on without withering them away using projectile weapons. Yet, when I felt the abnormality, my instincts simply told me that a sword would be more than sufficient. I tried and won.
This one lacks the immunity to physical attacks when fully formed, unlike its' more common counterpart. Why? A defect?
"Hey, Vergil, what is that glowing orb that is being skewered by your black sword?"
Alex says it as I look to see that my sword has a purple glowing sphere being pierced by it.
Hmm… this must be the core of that Shadow… But why it it glowing? It wasn't supposed to glow.
!
Suddenly, the orb glows brighter, I covered my eyes and so does Alex.
I then felt a strange feeling… like I'm… absorbing something.
As the light dimmed down and died out completely, we opened our eyes.
"What the hell just happened?", asked Alex.
"I have no idea", I replied.
[Partner]
In that moment, Ddraig called me.
'Ddraig?'
I telepathically speak to him.
[That orb, the core of that "Shadow", that you absorbed. I think you got something back.]
I became surprised.
'Huh? Is that my possibilities? Tell me.'
[Not entirely sure, because it seems to be… fractured, but I'm mostly certain that it is the possibilities you managed to get from Elsha. I'll save it up for now]
'Fractured, huh… Then that means there are more pieces left to find.'
[Yes, if you get the others back, you might unlock the power that you got from the box.]
'Hmm… I'll keep it in mind, and expand my senses. Looks like we'll have another hunt tomorrow'
Having said that, I cut off my channel with Ddraig.
"Let's go back"
We then returned to our hotel.
Tomorrow is going to be very busy, regardless of whether we can find any evidences… or not.