Undefeated Hollow Devil Chronicle

by Gaevontracey24

Nhazul, who was a prince from the Empire that was destroyed five years ago due to the revolt, met with the princesses of the new Kingdom, Lizsharte and Rias, by accidentally breaking into the bathroom of the girl's dormitory. The ancient weapons found from the ruins, the Drag-Ride. Nhazul was now known as the "Stronges Undefeated Emperor"

3. Chapter 2

Chapter 2

…

Nhazul woke up with his alarm as usual switching off the annoying sound as he turned over and snuggled into the warmth next to him in an attempt to savour a few more moments of sleep, his eyes widening upon hearing the soft moan from it as he found himself looking into the peaceful face of Rias Gremory.

Backing up instantly, Nhazul swore he didn't go to bed last night with her before his eyes widened at not remembering going to bed at all the previous night. He caught his traitorous eyes trailing down her beautiful body, his cheeks reddening as he looked away to calm himself down.

'Rias Gremory…is sleeping in my bed…naked…' He thought, his mind frying for a moment before he found himself recalling that he'd been killed the night before as he moved his hand to his stomach to find not even a scar.

"Nhazul-kun! Wake up" Leeanna called, Nhazul jumping slightly at what his sister would think of Rias being in here with him as he turned to wake her. Leeanna had always been protective of him in that manner and even if he didn't know what had happened last night she'd assume the worst and blame it all on Rias.

"Come on Sempai…you need to get up and dressed" Nhazul spoke, trying to keep the panic from his voice as he gently shook her shoulder, Rias stirring as Nhazul threw her shirt on her head as he started to pull on his own clothes.

Rias pulled the shirt from off her head as she sleepily looked around the room, giggling as she watched Nhazul hop around his room as he attempted to pull his slacks up, his shirt was open and a panicked look was on his face.

"Nhazul…?" She asked, confused as Nhazul finally managed to fasten his slacks as he turned to face her. He blushed as he remembered her state of dress, turning back around as he spoke seriously

"You should hurry and get dressed before my sister suspects something…but you're going to have to explain things later"

"Nhazul-kun, come on you're breakfast is done" Leeanna called, Nhazul fastening his shirt before pulling on his new blazer as Rias asked

"Why…?"

"She's protective of me and finding you in here like that…well you may have her temper directed at you at full force…not a good thing…I swear she could take on the Maou with her death glare" Nhazul spoke, shuddering at the last time he was the target of it. Rias' eyes were wide as she decided to get dressed not wanting to get on the bad side of her new servant's sister.

"Please just wait here till I call for you Sempai…" Nhazul spoke as he checked there wasn't anything else he needed to do before leaving the room closing the door behind him before heading downstairs. He smiled sheepishly as he spotted Leeanna looking at him sternly with her hands on her hips as she spoke

"You're going to be late now…and you're going to need this" She held out an elastic band for him, Nhazul scratching the back of his head as he accepted it with his other hand. Fixing his hair in a few seconds he thanked her as she turned to head into the kitchen as she spoke

"Who is she?" Nhazul froze for a moment, looking at her back as he wondered how she knew as he lied

"I don't know what you're talking about, Onee-san…I just had trouble getting up today"

"Don't lie…it's not something you can do" Keiko spoke seriously as Nhazul gulped as she turned to look at him angrily

"She had better not have corrupted my little Nii-kun otherwise I'll have to teach her a lesson" Her eyes were ablaze as she tightened her clutch on the wooden spoon in her hand, Nhazul stepped back from her as he spoke

"Nothing happened…" Leeanna searched his face for a few moments before nodding to herself as she turned to enter the kitchen as she called behind her

"I suppose she will want some breakfast as well" Leeanna sighed in relief, having managed to take the brunt of his sister's anger as he headed back upstairs, jumping at seeing a dressed and ready Rias waiting on the landing, nervous over what she had heard

"Don't worry Sempai…You'll just have to endure a twenty questions now" Nhazul spoke with as best a relaxed smile that he could manage, given the whole confusing morning he'd been having.

…

Sitting in the kitchen, an uncomfortable atmosphere filled the room; Leeanna seemed to keep her stern gaze between the two others, Yukio avoiding it as much as possible by looking at his plate while Rias answered "Yukio-kun was just helping me with my studies last night…we must've fell asleep when we took a small break"

Leeanna took a moment to swallow the mouthful of food before looking to Nhazul as she spoke "I didn't know Nii-kun was that smart"

Nhazul blushed as he looked up to his sister; she only called him 'Nii-kun' in front of any girl. His eyes widened at the hollow look in his sister's eyes as he heard Rias whisper into his ear "I'm sorry... It looked like it would become troublesome, so I used my power"

'Power? What power?' Nhazul thought as he turned to look at her, Rias smiling friendly as she turned back to Leeanna who seemed to have calmed down with the story she'd given her, Nhazul looking confused between the two before jumping slightly as Rias spoke

"Don't waste Onee-sama's food..." Nhazul blushed as he finished his meal, catching glimpses of Rias' elegant eating next to him.

…

The pair's walk to his new school seemed to be filled with the confused and, mostly, angry stares from other students

"Why is he with Rias-oneesama?"

"How could she pick him…I'm so much better?"

"No! Nhazul-kun has been taken by Onee-sama" The last comment was from one of the few girls that liked Nhazul, the silver haired boy blushing as Rias giggled as they reached the school gates, accepting her bag from Nhazul as she spoke

"I will to get you afterwards. I'll see you after school."

"––With that said, he is Nhazul Ryuadia who will be attending this school from today. Everyone, there are probably many things which you aren't used to, but I hope you will get along with him."

(In The Classroom)

The school building: second floor, second year's classroom morning.

Receiving the introduction of the female instructor in charge of the class, Raigree Balheart, Nhazul made an expression showing that he did not know what to say.

Raigree, while being a woman, played an active role as a Drag-Knight in the Old Empire Era, and she also took the New Kingdom's side as the ally of women in the coup d'état.

In addition, including her beauty and dignified personality, she seemed to boast of great popularity among the female students.

It might have been some sort of fortune that he was put in the class which such an instructor took charge of.

That's –– if Nhazul was a female student officer candidate though.

"…"

Last night, since there was no vacant room in the girl's dormitory, Nhazul ended up staying at the drawing room for visitors and spent a night where he was not able to sleep very good.

However, it was because of that Nhazul's stomach hurt.

After the New Kingdom's establishment by coup d'état, Nhazul who was working as a chore Prince was used to busy and hard work.

What was the most toilsome was that when seeing the classroom, he was strongly feeling out-of-place.

It's impossible.

Even more than Lisha's coerciveness, as "a test entrance which considers a future coeducation", and frankly speaking, he did not know at all about what Principal Relie who also permitted it, though it was a temporary enrollment, was thinking.

(How can she easily permit it even though it's a girl's academy…?)

Nhazul knew that Relie had such a character from a long time, but as expected, she had too much freedom.

By the way, since it seemed that a substitute capable person would be arranged by the Kingdom to do the other miscellaneous jobs, which Nhazul was scheduled to do, he was relieved for the time being.

"Errr, I'm Nhazul Ryuadia. I hope to get along with you…"

For the time being, he made an awkward greeting.

By the way, Lisha who was in the same class, probably due to yesterday's fatigue, far from offering a lifeboat to Nhazul was sleepily rowing the boat.

Small buzzing and whispering voices filled the classroom.

Well, it's no wonder.

He was a Prince of the Old Empire which laid out the trend of androcracy for many years, so although the system changed five years ago, it was still the object of caution for girls.

Moreover, that a person like him was the only one admitted in a young ladies' academy––

(Haa… I want to go home.)

Everyone probably hates it, too, and honestly even I don't know what to talk about––

"…Ah. It's Nhaz-chan."

As Nhazul was inwardly shedding tears, he suddenly heard such a voice.

"––Eh?"

A pink-haired girl who was in a seat on the window side of the classroom.

Her fluffy hair was brought together with two ribbons, which properly suited the girl's absentminded atmosphere.

And, her rich chest which greatly pushed up her uniform brought about a mysterious charm to the girl's face where traces of childishness remained.

"Long time no see."

In a soft voice, the girl smiled at Nhazul.

Her slow way of talking and peculiar atmosphere rang a bell to Nhazul.

"Errr, are you by any chance, Philphie…?"

"Yes, that's right."

To Nhazul's question, the girl nodded and confirmed.

Philphie Aingram.

She was the second daughter of the great mercantile House, the Aingram Financial Conglomerate, and also Nhazul's childhood friend.

Furthermore, she was the Principal –– Relie Aingram's younger sister.

It had actually been seven years since the last time they met.

At that time, the Aingram House was associated with the Old Empire and there was also the fact that they were the same age, so Nhazul remembered that they played a lot together when they were children.

"So you are attending this school. I'm glad. Please, take care of me, Nhaz-chan."

With a tone which did not seemed that much happy, Philphie said.

Though, Nhazul knew that Philphie was originally a girl who was not very good in expressing her emotions.

And, the fact that she was not so talkative and also that she had an honest personality.

Therefore, even though she looked like this, she was probably really happy.

"Ah, yes. Likewise, take care of me."

As Nhazul exchanged greetings like this, the instructor Raigree pointed and said "Okay, Nhazul. Your seat is next to that child."

Nhazul was nervous, but as he sat down next to his childhood friend, he took a breath of relief for the first time.

Thank god.

Even if but a few, there was a friend whom he could speak with.

While Nhazul who was tired in various ways since yesterday loosened his cheek in relief, he looked at his childhood friend sitting nearby––

(But, we are in an age and position different from those seven years ago, we're in a classroom, so I should take that into consideration a little, shouldn't I?)

"Um, would it be better that I call you Philphie-san?"

The moment Lux said so, suddenly (in a bad mood) Philphie turned away with a serious look.

"Eh…?"

Lux was perplexed to that reaction.

Did I say something rude?

(But, I have memory that it was rare that Philphie got angry about something, but––)

"It's Phi-chan, isn't it?"

As Nhazul thought so, Philphie said that while still looking away.

"…Eh? Can I call you like that here!?"

"…"

Philphie affirmed as she nodded.

(N-Now that I think about it…!)

Nhazul remembered with cold sweat.

Philphie had, since the past, demanded a relationship where she and someone whom she took a liking to called each other by their nickname.

Nhazul was also doing so since they were very close when they were children, but––

"I-I'm happy you say that, but as expected, I can't call you that here… I mean look, we have already grown up, also we're officer candidates, and we're in the academy…"

Or should I say, it was very embarrassing to call you so in front of unknown classmates.

"Would you consider the situation at that angle?" Nhazul expected so, but––

"…"

Hmph.

Looking at Nhazulwho made excuses, Philphie looked away once again.

The noisy stir of the classmates could be heard.

"Everyone, don't make noise. I'm starting the lesson."

With Raigree's voice, the classroom regained calm instantly.

But, since it was a sudden admission, Nhazul did not yet have a textbook at hand.

"Philphie-san. Can I use your textbook together with you?"

"…"

He was ignored.

"Ph-Philphie. T-This much is all right, right? H-Hey, we're in class now…"

"…"

There was no reaction.

I soon wanted to cry.

"…Hey, Phi-CHAN."

"What…? Nha-chan."

As Nhazul somehow squeezed his voice, Philphie turned towards him and said so.

"M-May we read your textbook together…?"

"Yes, all right." At that moment, laughter leaked from all over the classroom.

"Cute"

"Phi-chan he says"

"Did those two have that kind of relation?"

Hearing many such voices, Nhazul's face turned red.

Ha, it's too embarrassing…!

What is this!?

What kind of situation is this!

"Pfftt.."

Incidentally, even the serious instructor Raigree was trying to suppress her laughter.

Nhazul endured the urge of wanting to run away right now and somehow took the class.

"…Hmph"

Lisha who woke up looked at this as she seemed to be in a bad mood.

And, Nhazul did not notice another female student's gaze

Part 2

However, unexpectedly his embarrassing exchange with Philphie seemed to bear fruit as Nhazul's classmates seemed to have dispelled their caution towards him.

"Hey, hey, were Philphie-chan and Nhazul-kun by any chance fiancés?"

"What kind of jobs does the chore Prince usually do?"

"Speaking of which, why can you fight against an Abyss alone? Isn't it great!?"

"Are men that good at using Drag-Rides? I heard that the aptitude rate was originally above for women, but––"

And then, the number of female students assailing him with questions and gathering in front of his desk, at every short break during lessons increased like a festival.

The duel with Lisha who was the Princess, and the repulsing of the Abyss.

For good or for bad, the bad impression of having intruded into the bathroom was completely wiped out and it seemed that only interest and favorable impression towards Nhazul remained in the students.

Just before the lunch break, a large number of onlookers flocked from other classes.

(Somehow, it's different from what I've imagined…!)

Knight candidates' academy which noble young ladies attended.

As Nhazul was perplexed to the atmosphere which crumbled too much regarding it––

"Nhazul-kun. That reminds me, you're still doing the miscellaneous jobs, aren't you?"

"Errr. Yes, well… it's my duty after all."

As he replied so being asked by one of the girls who surrounded his desk,

"So if I ask, Nhazul-kun will do jobs here. All right, shall I ask at once?"

"Ah, it's not fair. I also wanted to ask!"

"Nhazul-san. More importantly, would you like to have tea with me?"

"Everyone, if you've any request, I will collect them. If you approach him all at once, Nhazul-cchi will be troubled, right?"

Tillfarr who was a classmate came over and began to bring everyone together.

(I'm selfishly given a strange nickname…)

It looked like Tillfarr, who was one of the trio –– one of the "Triad" which seemed to be famous even in the academy, was the mood maker-like existence even in the class.

"Phew…"

However, honestly, he felt relieved.

It's a good thing if Tillfarr interceded for everyone––

"Yes, yes. Write your odd jobs requests to Nhazul-cchi and put them in this box. Carry them. Put in also the appointed date. They will be done in turns later."

"Eeeeeeeeeeh!?"

(Somehow, the talk has been settled in a bad sense!)

"Don't worry. Everyone is rich after all. Like this, Nhazul-cchi's debt can also be paid quickly!"

"…"

As far as he could see the written requests being thrown in the wooden box which Tillfarr prepared to the extent that they overflowed, he felt like he was going to collapse before the completion of requests.

And –– it was lunch break; as Nhazul who was mentally tired laid face down on his desk for a while,

"H-Hey. If it's fine with you, how about going to eat a meal together? Nhazul."

"Uwah!?"

Being suddenly called out to from above his head, Nhazul jumped.

Standing before him was Lisha.

He had the feeling that she had been half sleeping nearby during the lesson, but she seemed to have woken up before he noticed.

"Errr, do you mean –– the two of us?"

"T-That's right … Don't you want to go with me?"

While faintly reddening her cheeks, Lisha looked away.

At that moment, a small stir filled the classroom.

"A-And if possible –– I would like you to become my exclusive care taker from here on. Coincidentally, I also wanted one servant after all."

As Lisha said so while restlessly twining her finger in front of her chest,

"Eeeh!?"

Along with Nhazul's scream, the whole class rustled once again.

"Eh? What does she mean?"

"If I remember correctly, Lizsharte-sama didn't apply even a maid for her care as she is misanthropic, right?"

"To make him, a 'man' her servant is––"

"No way…"

From the female students of the class, he could hear such voices from afar.

"S-Such a thing––"

Since he could not reject it in a loud voice, he was troubled.

"This much is fine, isn't it? At that time, you forcibly saw even my naked body after all––"

At Lisha's words, "kyaaaaaaaaah" high pitch voices rose from the classroom.

As expected, the incident of the bathroom had become a rumor, but there seemed to be students who did not know the details.

"T-That was –– um"

As Nhazul completely panicked––,

"…"

A girl quietly approached Nhazul.

"…Phi-chan?"

It was Philphie.

While already eating something which looked like baked doughnuts silently probably for lunch break, she stood just beside Nhazul and Lisha facing each other.

She was expressionless as usual, but she revealed a strong presence.

"*gulp*. Nha-chan is troubled. Lizsharte-sama."

Swallowing the doughnut in her mouth, Philphie said.

"What. I was wondering who it was, but it's just the airhead daughter of the Aingram Financial Conglomerate, huh. It's troublesome. Okay, I'll give you my snacks, so step back calmly."

After knitting her brows only for an instant, Lisha took out paper packages from her bosom and ordered Philphie.

Judging from the faint sweet smell and the package, a golden gloss (luster).

The contents seemed to be bread seasoned with honey.

"…"

It was specified in the school regulations that there was no hierarchical relationship between nobles and that they were treated as equal knight candidates within the academy.

But, that was to the bitter end an official stance, and it was not going on like that in reality.

A Princess was after all a Princess.

"It's not as if Nhazul himself really asked for help, right? I don't know about you being childhood friends or whatever, but I advise you not to thoughtlessly poke your nose into other people's affairs."

Lisha told so as to persuade her.

Philphie silently gnawed the bread from the package she received like a small animal.

"Ah, so you're eating it…"

Philphie was extremely fond of sweet things. And, she was doing things at her own pace.

She also seemed to have not changed on that side since a long time.

"Everyone would understand just by seeing that Lu-chan is troubled. So stop. Princess."

A slow and loose tone.

But, Philphie told so clearly.

One did not know what Philphie was thinking as she was usually absentminded, she firmly insisted unexpectedly and she was the obstinate type.

The exchanges of the two girls became incandescently calmly.

The classmates of the classroom brightened their eyes to that scene and began to get greatly excited.

"I wonder who will win."

"The New Kingdom Princess or the childhood friend of the Aingram Financial Conglomerate…"

Nhazul who became unable to endure being here, hurriedly,

"W-Wait, you two, calm down––"

The moment when he raised his voice,

"––Sorry for meddling as you're busy, but can I?"

A dignified sound.

He heard a translucent voice in the classroom.

Nhazul remembered the girl with beautiful features like a fairy and The crimson haired girl .

Krulcifer Einvolk and Rias Gremory

She was a fellow knight candidate classmate who was a foreign student from the religious country Ymir, a powerful nation in the north.

It was that girl who made the escaping Nhazulswoon; flinging him away in the incident of the day before yesterday.

"Krulcifer and Rias, huh. If you have business, leave it for later. I'm in the middle of an important talk now––"

Lisha swelled her cheeks (as if pouting) and protested so, but

" We was asked for a little business from the Principal of the school. There is a place that she wants us to guide that child to at lunch break. Understood, Nhazul-kun?"

"Errr… ah, yes."

It was the first time he heard about the matter of being guided, but thinking that it was a lifeboat, Nhazul rode on the talk.

"Then, it's like that, so."

As Krulcifer and Rias told so and softly held Nhazul's and, she pulled him to the corridor without waiting for Lisha's and Philphie's reply.

"––No way, to think even the talented Krulcifer-san and Rias-senpai is interested in him"

"It has become interesting."

To his classmates' shrill voices which he could hear from behind, Nhazul walked down the corridor while bearing some anxiety.

Coming out from the classroom to the corridor, they went up the stairs.

When they arrived at the rooftop where there was no one, Krulcifer approached the handrail and quietly looked down below.

The scenery of the large school site could be overlooked from here.

A vividly green courtyard and great school buildings.

In a slightly remote place, there were the girl's dormitory and the boy's dormitory and the Machine Dragon practice field and the fourth Machine Dragon hangar.

And, there were some buildings which he did not know yet.

"Um, thank you. Krulcifer-san"

For the time being, Nhazul who took a breather thanked her first.

He had heard rumors about Krulcifer Einvolk and Rias Gremory only a little from his big sister Leeanna.

A foreign girl who possessed first-class skill in studying, body techniques, and Drag-Ride's handling.

Including her beauty which exceeded that of an ordinary person, she was a talented woman whose superiority was acknowledged by the people in the academy.

"You both helped me… didn't you? Probably."

"Despite your childish face, you're incredibly sharp."

"T-That has nothing to do with it, right!? Why do you say such a thing!? Even though I mind it!"

As Nhazul unintentionally reddened his face, Krulcifer chuckled.

"The fact that you immediately become irritated like that, despite being a Prince of the Old Empire is what I call childish. Though former, you're also of royalty, so I wanted you to return such an obvious provocation with sarcasm."

The school day seemed to stretch by as he had to put up with the rumours about him and Rias, some of the boys making threats to kick his ass if he didn't break up with her. The thought of them trying made him laugh, even if he'd stopped taking martial arts classes he still remembered most of it.

He was curious over who Rias would be sending to collect him as he packed his schoolbag up, looking up as he heard a voice from the door

"Hi, how are you doing?" Looking over he found Yuuto Kiba standing before his desk, the girls screaming with joy at the handsome prince's appearance in there class room.

"I'm fine…Did Gremory-sempai ask you to…?" Nhazul spoke confused as Yuuto nodded as he added

"Would you follow me?" Nhazul tood up as he grabbed his bag, the girls screaming up about the pair of them being some sort of couple as Nhazul thought confused

'What the big deal about us walking together'

(It's no good. We should be the same age, and yet she completely has the upper hand.)

When Nhazul was inwardly snubbed so,

"But, other than it, I praise you. You might say that I admire you. For noticing my intention. It saved me the trouble."

"…Um. Then, as expected, is there something you want to talk to me about?"

"Yes, there are several things. But, first of all."

She said so and turned her transparent pupils towards Lux.

"Why didn't you give the finishing blow yesterday –– at that time?"

"…Are you talking about Lizsharte-sama? Or about the Abyss…?"

"I think that you could have defeated both though. Only if you felt like it––"

At Krulcifer's glance as she saw through it, Lux hesitated for an instant,

"…You overestimated me too much."

After several seconds, he replied so.

"Certainly, I have never lost in an official mock battle of Drag-Knights. But, I never won, either."

The nickname "Strongest Undefeated" named from the style where he devoted himself entirely to Offense and evasion and delivered strong attacks.

But, as that name showed, all his war records were Victories.

Nhazul had also never lost.

"Don't worry. I don't intend to force you to speak about something you don't want to speak about."

(I-I'm not trusted…!)

As Nhazul hung his head, Krulcifer said as if reading his thoughts.

"Oh my, there is no way I would trust you, right? You, the peeping tom and underwear thief Prince."

"L-Like I said! You're wrong––"

As Nhazul blushed and became confused, Krulcifer chuckled.

It was a graceful smile hardly thinkable of a girl of the same age.

Nhazul's heart throbbed for an instant to that expression.

"I'm a little relieved."

"Eh…?"

"It's because you are a more harmless boy than I expected. Your not that much like the Empire's royalty."

"…"

A tone with which he didn't know whether he was praised or made a fool.

But only a little, she seemed to be having fun.

"It can't be helped. After all, I'm the seventh Prince, and moreover––"

"You've a childish face and you're also short?"

"NO!? Um…, for various reasons, we were driven out of the Imperial Court when I was a child. So, We're not that much familiar with the Old Empire––"

After the coup d'état succeeded, Nhazul and Leeana were released by the New Kingdom's amnesty.

With the criminal's collar attached to their necks and a large amount of debt as a mark of atonement.

And also another deal––.

"Is that so."

Krulcifer curtly muttered these words without showing any feelings in particular.

"So, Krulcifer-san came abroad to study from the religious country Ymir, to learn about Drag-Knights?"

"Certainly, that's also one of my goals."

How to put it, this girl seemed to always like an elusive way of speaking.

"Then, what kind of other purpose do you have? I heard that you're an Earl's daughter, but is it in order to connect interchanges with the New Kingdom or something like that––"

"…Hey, do you know about the "Black Hero"?"

Interrupting Nhazul's words, Krulcifer asked.

"Eh…?"

"The monster that destroyed about 1200 of the Empire's Drag-Knights using only an unknown Drag-Knight, and drove the Empire to defeat. Both his affiliation and purpose were unknown. That user's figure hasn't been confirmed in the current New Kingdom. Therefore, he is handed down as a demon of destruction for the Old Empire and as a legendary hero for the New Kingdom."

"…If it's only the rumor, I've heard about him, but––"

"…"

At Nhazul's answer, Krulcifer said nothing.

She was just overlooking quietly the scenery below in front of the handrail of the rooftop.

"Um…?"

"I have one job request for you."

"Eh?"

"Look for the "Black Hero". I have business with that person."

"…!?"

The moment when Nhazul unintentionally gasped.

dong, the sound of the big bell resounded from the clock tower.

"Ah…"

"The afternoon lesson will soon start. Next is the Practical training exercise for Drag-Rides, so we better hurry up."

While saying only that, Krulcifer got down from the rooftop ( you get down from the roof by taking stairs so this sentence doesn't really make sense in my opinion, )and slowly walked to the stairs.

"U-Um… Krulcifer-san!"

When Nhazul called out to her back, Krulcifer stopped for an instant and turned around.

As Nhazul was perplexed as he didn't even know what he was going to say,

"Speaking of which, Nhazul-kun, did you eat lunch?"

"Eh…!?"

(N-Now that she mentioned it, I hadn't yet!)

It was because he was completely exhausted at the beginning of the lunch break and was rolled up in trouble afterwards––.

The moment he became conscious of so, Nhazul's stomach growled and his face turned red.

"Do your best. Cute chore Prince."

Krulcifer suddenly smiled and left just like that.

"…"

Somehow, she was too mysterious a person, but there was only one thing made clear so far.

This person is too tough, in various ways…

Nhazu held these indescribable feelings and his hunger, and took the afternoon lesson.

Part 4

"Haa, I'm already tireeeeeed…"

Night time.

The large public bath linked to the girl's dormitory.

While strongly brushing the bathtub and floor where he intruded into the day before yesterday, Lux was exhausted.

After finishing the afternoon class, the number of requests of "odd jobs" which dropped into Lux's hand had increased.

Was the first ever man to move into this girl's academy? –– the Old Empire's chore Prince that rare (unusual).

Or, did he attract attention in various ways because of yesterday's duel and incident?

The requests, including those from the academy and students, exceeded dozens of matters only today, and the number of reservations still kept increasing.

Originally, if Lux had not organized the odd jobs which reached a hard schedule, he might have given up long ago.

"Even so, I think that it's a place like a paradise though."

About five years after Lux was released by the amnesty of the New Kingdom.

His life as the chore Prince was by no means comfortable.

Of course, there were also good people at the work place.

But, during the countless requests, there were also many painful and difficult things.

He was awfully cursed (abused) by the people who resented the Old Empire.

Conversely, he had also been spoken ill of as the "dog of the New Kingdom" by the Old Empire's adherents.

"But––. This place is"

While working hard at studying, he could pay his debt and moreover, his safety was guaranteed.

And above all ––daily Drag-Ride training was possible.

It could be said that the fact of the burden of the expensive management, and maintenance fees of his Machine Dragon also disappearing was ideal for the kind of life that Nhazul aimed for.

However, the only thing which he was concerned about,

"Was it all right for someone like me to stay in such a place?"

In this place where Nhazul muttered, after a light knock, the door to the dressing room was suddenly opened.

"W-Waaaah!? Sorry! The bath cleaning is already over, can you just wait a little bit now––!?

Damn!?

Have I by any chance forgotten to put the note "under cleaning"?

As Nhazul raised a voice of explanation in panic––

"I'm sorry for not meeting your expectation, Nii-kun. Did you want to see it? My naked body."

There was his little sister Airi and the Triad's first-year student who was her friend, Nokuto.

By the way, both of them were properly dressed.

"W- What are you saying!? Ah, Nokuto-san, good evening…"

"Yes. But, it can't be helped. I hear that adolescent males usually have it tough in various ways. I wonder about how they lust (crave) for a blood relative, but"

"Why did you assume that I was expecting a naked body!?"

"Well, it's fine though. Shall we, the only family members, enter the bath together next time? Nii-kun."

"Airi… It's embarrassing, so could you please not tell such a joke in front of people?"

When Nhazul's cheeks reddened and he protested, as Leeanna was also a little embarrassed, she deceived it by clearing her throat *cough*.

"So, do you have business with me? This bath cleaning is already the last for today's requests, so if it isn't a pressing business, I want you to wait a little––"

To Nhazul who straightened his back, Airi and Nokuto smiled wryly.

"Yes, it's a little work. Afterwards, please come immediately to the grand hall of the girl's dormitory. A detour is out of the question (prohibited). Well then, later."

Leeana smoothly said and turned her back.

"Understood. I'll go immediately."

"Yes. Please look forward to it."

When bowing to Nhazul who answered, Nokuto also left the bathroom together with Airi.

"Look forward…?"

Nhazul cocked his head in puzzlement, but in the end he did not understand.

Part 5

The evening when the sun also went down completely.

After having the housemother who made the request check the cleaning, Nhazul headed to the grand hall without break like he was told by Leeanna and Nokuto.

As he walked in the dormitory, wide like a high-class hotel in the capital, he unintentionally smiled wryly to himself who felt that he was "out of place".

"Speaking of which, I was royalty, too…"

He had lived in the imperial court until 6 years old, but after being deprived of the right of succession to the throne, he lived out of the castle, and it was not that rich (affluent) of a life.

The coup d'état occurred when he was 11 years old, and with a short-term war of about one month, after the Atismata chief officials won, he was imprisoned with his Big sister Leeanna and they were detained for a while.

And–– at the same time as the New Kingdom government was born, Nhazul became a criminal and it had been decided that he would bear the mission of undertaking odd jobs and a debt with an amnesty.

They were the only two survivors of the Old Empire's royalty.

Although they were almost ousted from the imperial family, to let Lux and his little sister, who had imperial blood live and release them, various agreements were necessary.

Along with another secret which could by no means be said––

"…Errr, was it the grand hall?"

Nhazul noticed and stopped.

(––But, for what reason would they call me at such a time?)

Even though there are many jobs I can't do when the night comes.

As Nhazul was thinking so, he saw Leeanna's figure in the hall which was down the stairs.

"You seem to have straightened your appearance. I've gotten a better opinion of you, Nii-kun."

"E-Even I will at least do that much! Um, about the request from the girls––"

"Well then, please come here. Everyone is waiting."

Ignoring Nhazul's words, Airi took his hand.

Just like that across the passage, to the cafeteria (dining hall).

"Huh…? If I remember correctly, this place is––"

Even though it was already the time when the cafeteria (dining hall) was closed.

As Nhazul thought so, looking puzzled and entered,

"CONGRATULATIONS FOR YOUR ADMISSION!"

He heard the girls' voices all at once.

"Eh…?"

When looking at the front, many dishes were placed on a big table.

Meat pie with sauce was put and all sorts of sandwiches with vegetables were put.

Pasta with mushroom dressed with plant oil. Chicken sauté seasoned with spice.

Soup with cooked vegetables, drawing out sweetness.

Even a red wine bottle and teapot were prepared.

"Don't tell me this is––?"

"Right, it's the celebration of your admission. Nhazul-kun."

Seeing Nhazul's reaction, Sharis of the Triad lightly smiled.

When looking, the dining hall was set like a small party meeting place, and many students gathered there.

Lizsharte, Krulcifer, Philphie.

Sharis, Tillfarr and Nokuto of the Triad.

And, several students of the same class and also the instructor Raigree also sat in a corner.

For a moment, he could not believe that sight.

It was like a dream.

Nhazul was absentminded for a little while.

"Um, by any chance –– is it for me?"

"…Well, it's something simple we gathered and planned after all. It might be a little plain to entertain you, a former Prince, but please do with it."

As the third-year student Sharis said so,

"Uh-huh. The dishes are everyone's handmade dishes, but don't get your hopes up for the taste of what I made! I'm extremely clumsy after all!"

Said Tillfarr with a face (smile) on her whole face.

"No. I don't think that it's something you should say in this (first) place."

Nokuto threw in a calm response to it.

"Nha-chan. We will be together from now on."

"I'm expecting various things from you."

After Philphie and Krulcifer respectively called out to Nhazul,

"Yo. Ah, um, how to say it."

Lisha who was sitting on a chair in the back lightly raised her hand and stood up.

"U-Um –– frankly speaking, I'm not very good with such a party or event. Therefore, um, I don't really know whether you're happy. But, I thought we should finally do it… Good work… No, it was a great honor on this occasion. Nhazul Ryuadia."

While shyly averting her eyes a little, she muttered.

Her attire was a red dress which Nhazul saw for the first time.

"Yes. Lizsharte-sama seems to want to say "I wanted to thank and congratulate you, and so I planned it. I will be happy if you enjoy it even a little"."

"Y-You're wrong!? Don't translate it on your own! Even though you're just a first year!"

Seeing that exchange, the other students suddenly burst into laughter.

"…"

Because of too much shock, Nhazul was stiff for a while, but

"––Thank you. Lisha-sama. I'm happy."

He said so with a natural smile.

"N-No… Well, um, how to say it. It's only one, but I also tried and made a dish. Errr…"

cough, with a sidelong glance to Lisha who blushed and began to panic, Sharis cleared her throat.

"Well then, shall we already go with the toast?"

To these words, everyone poured wine in their glasses and raised them.

The lively night wore on.

(Next day after School)

Nhazul followed Yuuto as they headed out the back of the school building and towards the building know as the old school building which is surrounded by trees. The building itself looked creepy and considered one of the seven wonders of the school but it was just an old building made from wood. Nhazul seemed surprise that all of the windows looked to still be in place, turning his gaze to Yuuto, who spoke "Buchou is here"

'Buchou…? I guess he means Gremory-sempai' Nhazul thought as he continued to follow the blonde haired second year, looking in surprise at the clean corridors and empty rooms they passed as they headed up to the second floor.

Yuuto stopped before a particular classroom, Nhazul looking confused as he noticed the sign on the doorway

"Occult Research Club" Nhazul spoke to himself confused, Yuuto seemed to smile before calling out

"Buchou, I have brought him" A reply soon following from Rias

"Come in" Yuuto entered first with Nhazul close behind, the latter freezing in surprise as his eyes roamed the room, picking up on all the weird signs and words all around the classroom. His eyes lingered on the large circle written on the floor, getting a creepy vibe from the whole room before he picked up on the couple of sofas and desks in the room.

"This is Ryuadia Nhazul-kun" Kiba introduced as Nhazul 's eyes finally met with Koneko's as he spoke lowering his head as she did

"Nice to meet you" Koneko didn't reply, reminding Nhazul of the rumours about her not talking much, as she continued to eat the plate of youkan.

The sound of water caused Nhazul to turn wondering where it was coming from, his eyebrows knitting in confusion at seeing the shower curtain at the back of the room.

'I swear I've fallen asleep again…A shower in a classroom which is filled with unusual signs and a magic circle on the floor' Nhazul thought, opting to pinch the back of his hand to be sure as he was awake.

"Here, take this, Buchou" A female voice spoke, Nhazul wondering who else was there as he heard Rias

"Thank you, Akeno" Nhazul decided to sit down on one of the sofas, sighing as he found himself remembering what had happened that morning, his face darkening for a moment before paling as he found Keiko's glare from this morning at the front of his mind.

'I'm glad Nee-san didn't come into my room this morning…' He thought with a shudder, looking up to find Koneko looking confused at him before finding Rias looking at him as she spoke

"I'm sorry. I couldn't take a shower last night because I stayed the night at your place. So I took a shower now."

Nhazul nodded understandingly as he scratched the back of his neck, still a part of him wondering why there was a shower in a classroom before he picked up on the black haired girl behind Rias.

"Oh my, how do you do? My name is Himejima Akeno, pleased to make your acquaintance." Akeno introduced herself politely with a smiling face, Nhazul surprised at the two school idols in the same club as he spoke up formally

"My name is Ryuadia Nhazul. Nice to meet you too, sempai"

"Looks like everyone is here. Ryuadia Nhazul -kun. No, let me call you Nhazul" Rias spoke, taking Nhazul's nod as an agreement as she continued

"We, the Occult Research Club, welcome you…"

"Um… okay" Nhazul spoke, hoping to get some explanation over all that had happened as Rias finished speaking

"…as a Devil" Nhazul's mouth dropped open as he looked confused at her.

…

"Here's your tea" Akeno spoke handing a cup to Nhazul who'd regained some of his mind as he spoke

"Thank you…" Taking a quick sip out of courtesy, he'd never seemed to like drinking it before, he found himself surprised as he added

"It tastes great…I don't normally like tea"

"Oh my. Thank you very much." Akeno replied as she started to laugh. Yuuto, Koneko and Rias also sitting on the sofas surrounding the table as Rias put down her own cup of tea as she spoke

"Akeno, you sit over here as well."

"Yes, Buchou" Akeno spoke as she moved to sit next to Rias, everyone looking at Nhazul, who fidgeted slightly nervous before Rias spoke to him

"I will tell you directly. We are all Devils."

'Definitely direct…' Nhazul thought as he sweatdropped, wondering whether that would explain what had happened the previous night before settling on the fact it didn't explain anything and just gave him more questions.

"Your expression says that you don't believe what I am saying. Well, that can't be helped. You remember the girl yesterday that killed you?" Nhazul's eyes widened as he now figured it was relevant as she spoke

"That's a Fallen Angel. They were former Angels who served God, but they fell down to hell because they had evil intentions. They are also the enemy of us Devils."

Rias continuing so Nhazul would understand things better "We, the Devils, have been in a war with the Fallen Angels since ancient times. We have been fighting over the possession of the Underworld, also known as Hell in the human world. The Underworld is split into two areas of the Devil and Fallen Angel. The Devil forms a pact with humans and receives their sacrifice and increases their strength. The Fallen Angel on the other hand controls humans to eliminate Devils. And here, the Angels come to destroy the two races on God's order. So the war is split into three groups: Devils, Fallen Angels and Angels. This has been going on since ancient times."

"Wait what has that got to do with me being killed?" Nhazul asked confused, feeling as if he'd stepped into a fantasy game as Rias answered

"The reason why your life was aimed for by her is because that you were a human who possessed the Sacred Gear."

-Sorry. You were a threat to us, so we decided to get rid of you early. If you want to hold a grudge, then hate the God who put the Sacred Gear inside you.-

Nhazul remembered the girl saying that to him after she'd stabbed him with whatever she was using as Rias continued "That day you were killed by the Spear of Light."

Nhazul wondered if she could read his mind as he turned his thoughts onto whatever a Sacred Gear was as Yuuto spoke up to answer "Sacred Gear is an irregular power that is bestowed to certain humans. For example, most of the people whose names are recorded in history are said to be possessors of Sacred Gears. They used the power of their Sacred Gear to record their name in history."

'Now that's weird' Nhazul thought as Akeno continued from where Yuuto finished

"Presently, there are people who have a Sacred Gear within their body. You know those people who play an important role worldwide? Most of those people possess a Sacred Gear within their body."

"Most of the Sacred Gears have functions that are only usable in the human society. But there are exceptional Sacred Gears that are a threat to the Devils and Fallen Angels. Nhazul, raise your hand high." Rias spoke, Nhazul complying even if he was confused, his left hand held up as she continued

"Close your eyes and imagine the thing that you think is the strongest."

Nhazul closed his eyes as he trawled through his mind for a few moments before settling on Tsuna from Katekyo Hitman Reborn

"Strongest being? Umm…Tsuna from Katekyo Hitman Reborn"

"Then imagine that person. Now imagine him in a particular pose where he looks the strongest." Rias spoke as Nhazul gave her a look which asked 'are you serious' for a few moments before closing his eyes and focused on how Tsuna stood for his X Burner.

"Lower your arm slowly and stand up." Rias spoke, Nhazul complying as he got up from the sofa, awaiting her next instruction

"Now mimic the pose of that person. You have to copy it properly, and you cannot hold back."

Nhazul blushed slightly at the idea of copying the move in front of them even with his eyes closed he could still tell they were there.

"Hurry and do it." Rias urged him again, Yukio gulping as he took a calming breath and moved his feet apart, putting his right arm behind him with his palm facing the wall behind him while his left was held up in front of him, his hand scrunched up in a fist

"X Burner!" Nhazul called, thrusting his left palm forward as he copied Tsuna's attack, embarrassed, Rias soon speaking up

"Now, open your eyes. Since this place is filled with magic powers, the Sacred Gear will appear more easily."

Yukio opened his eyes, a flash of light starting to glow from his left arm and right hand. He found himself shocked as the light started to form over his left arm, the light soon fading to reveal a red gauntlet, a green orb set in the back of his hand, while in the right hand he now held the hilt of a giant cleaver shaped weapon which was about the same height as he was, completely covered in crimson clothe with black borders which wrapped horizontally down it to hide the blade underneath. Looking closer he could see that the clothe covering had come from that which was wrapped around the hilt and there was even a little piece of it sticking out of the top of the hilt.

"What the hell are these?" Nhazul spoke confused and surprised as he looked between his two weapons, not noticing the surprise on the others faces as Rias spoke

"A multiple Sacred Gear user…" Her voice sounded as shocked as she looked at them and him, Nhazul feeling his body becoming heavier as he started to pant, dropping to one knee as the clothe covered weapon disappeared.

"Looks like you can't handle both at the moment but that's ok…Those are Sacred Gears, and they are yours. Once they've appears, you could use it anywhere and anytime as you will." Rias spoke with a smile as Yukio pulling himself back to his feet easily, the weight having disappeared as soon as the large weapon had, while looking surprised at his hands and the red gauntlet that covered his left arm.

"You were killed by the Fallen Angel because of the big threat you're Sacred Gears poses and you called me when you were on the verge of death. I was summoned by this poster." Rias spoke as she pulled out a single leaflet, Nhazul recognising it as one he'd been given during his walk home

The leaflet had a weird magic circle and a catchphrase that read, "We will grant your wish!" If someone looked carefully, the magic circle on the leaflet is the same as the big magic circle on the floor.

"This is one of the leaflets we give out. This magic circle is used to summon us Devils. Lately, not many people draw this circle to summon us. So we give these leaflets to people who look like they would summon Devils. This magic circle is safe and easy to use. That day, one of our familiars that was disguised as a human was handing this out amongst your route home. You got it at that time, Nhazul. After you were attacked by the Fallen Angel, you called me while you were on the verge of death. You wished so hard that it summoned me. Usually, Akeno and the others from my household are the ones who are summoned."

'Did I wish that hard…?' Nhazul thought confused, he remembered wishing for something but what he wasn't sure of.

"When I was summoned and saw you, I knew right away that you were attacked by a Fallen Angel and that you were the possessor of the Sacred Gear. But there was a problem, and that was that you were on a brink of death. Not just Devils, but humans also would be killed instantly if impaled by Fallen Angels' Spear of Light. You were also in a state like that, and I decided to save your life..." Rias spoke, Nhazul understanding how he was still alive now as she continued

"...although, as a Devil. Nhazul, you were reborn as a Devil of mine, Rias Gremory, household, as my underling Devil."

She clicked her fingers and at that moment wings grew out of the back of everyone besides Nhazul. They looked like the wings of a bat. Rias clicked her fingers again and from his back a pair appeared, looking back over his shoulder to look at them.

"Let's introduce everyone anew. Yuuto." Rias spoke, Yuuto smiled at him as he spoke

"My name is Kiba Yuuto. Like you already know, I'm a 2nd year like you, Ryuadia Nhazul-kun. I'm a Devil too, nice to meet you."

"1st year... Toujou Koneko...Pleased to make your acquaintance...I'm a Devil..." Koneko spoke, bowing her head slightly.

"My name is Himejima Akeno, and I'm in 3rd year. I'm also the vice-president of this Research Club. Nice to meet you. Even though I'm like this, I'm also a Devil. Oh my." Akeno also bowed her head very politely, leaving Rias to introduce herself as she waved her crimson hair and spoke directly

"And I'm their master, devil Rias Gremory of the house of Gremory. My house holds the rank of a duke. Let's get along from now on, Yukio"

"Yes, Sempai" Nhazul spoke as Rias corrected him

"No, that's not it. You will have to call me 'Buchou' as its more fitting in school"

"Alright, Buchou" Nhazul replied with a nod.

…

A few days had passed since then as Nhazul walked back to his home. He'd been delivering leaflets since the day he found out everything from Rias, his master. He silently sighing as he ran through what Rias had explained that he needed to know. His devils wings and the red gauntlet were gone so he could continue with his daily life although he was curious to learn to fly even if it was impossible to be taught in the city.

'I'll have to avoid any Fallen or Angels from now on' He thought as he continued to walk towards his home, replaying most of the important details he'd been told by Rias in his head. Nhazul soon found the hairs sticking up on the back of his neck as he felt like he was being followed, turning to look behind him he found no one standing there before deciding to hurry home in a jog.

{Jump} A deep male voice spoke out inside his mind, Nhazul reacting before he could question it before looking back to find that a spear of light slammed into the pavement where he'd been only a few moments ago.

'Who the…' He thought looking around for the person who'd thrown it as he landed a few feet away.

"Just my luck" He spoke to himself quietly.

{Left} The voice spoke again, Nhazul moving to the left as another spear hit the ground, right where he'd been standing, turning to see a middle aged man flying there with his black wings spread out behind him

"How did you avoid those, little devil?" He asked curious, Nhazul adopting a fighting stance as he wondered how he'd get away without getting killed again.

{You would not get away unless you could fly} The voice spoke back to his idea, Nhazul looking confused as he spoke quietly

"I'm going mad…"

{You are not…} The voice replied as the Fallen prepared another spear in his hands as Nhazul spoke quietly

"So what is your plan?"

{Your Gauntlet will be sufficient to give you enough of a distraction} The voice spoke, Nhazul arching an eyebrow in confusion as the fallen spoke

"You seem to be an "Exiled Devil" who's gone mad…Don't worry I'll soon put you out of your misery"

{Wait till he throws it before attacking…and if you wish to speak with me you only have to think} The voice spoke up, Nhazul gulping as he readied himself to dodge the incoming attack.

The fallen threw his spear Nhazul jumping over the attack, activating his gauntlet as he threw a punch, hitting the fallen in the face cause of his surprise. The fallen taking a few moments to stabilize his flight before looking around for Nhazul only to find no one around, cursing under his breath as he flew off again.

…

Nhazul panted as he finally reached home, letting himself in as he found Leeanna taking off her shoes before him. She looked over her shoulder to him, giving him a smile as she spoke "Welcome home"

"I should be telling you that, Leeanna-nee" Nhazul spoke, as he regained his breath remembering that Rias had said something about using her magic on her so he would be able to return and go as he needed to during the nights, quickly pulling off his shoes before heading into the kitchen as she asked

"Did you eat earlier?" Nhazul smiled as he nodded as he replied

"I just wanted some water before I go to bed" Filling a glass from the drainer he headed out of the room but not before bidding Keiko good night. Heading upstairs to his room, draining the water before setting the glass onto his desk as he decided to find out more from his saviour.

'So who are you?' Nhazul mentally asked to the voice that had saved him before soon getting an answer from it

{I am the spirit inside your power…I am known as Lucifer}

'My power…but you referred to the gauntlet as mine…so are you to do with that clothe covered thing I've got, Lucifer'

{Yes…The gauntlet still sleeps although you can use its current form to protect yourself…my power, , is too strong for you to use at the moment and even holding its sealed form drains you greatly} He answered, Nhazul finding himself confused as he slumped onto his bed.

'Oh…Thank you anyway, I'd have had a spear in my back if it wasn't for you' He thought back, as he looked at the ceiling for a few moments as he felt himself drift off to sleep, Lucifer speaking up once Nhazul was asleep.

{I would not wish my descendant to die so young…although I was lucky to call Gremory-hime to save you through that leaflet}

...

(Next Day)

Nhazul walked to the old school building, some of the students were still whining about why he was able to join the Occult Research Club but he'd managed to explain that Rias had found out that he had a curiosity for old folklores and asked him to join cause of it.

In the fort city of the country of morning glow, the bell's sound which conveyed caution and Machine Dragons' roaring were resounding.

Several Drag-Knights were flying all over the town in order to inform of the Abyss's attack.

In the school, the emergency meeting which gathered the instructors and top brass of the city was held immediately.

Meanwhile, Nhazul and the officer cadets received orders to wear their Dress Gear and stand by, they had gathered in the Machine Dragon Hangar.

Fort City Cross Feed, the Fourth Machine Dragon Hangar.

That building which was located in the school premises was wide in itself; it was a shelter with bulky stone walls as well as a depository of Drag-Rides before transfer.

It was said in case of emergency, that this place was the waiting place and could also become an evacuation site.

"Well then, as everyone gathered, I shall notify you, ladies and gentlemen officer cadets."

The reason for the alarm bell was due to the appearance of the Abyss.

According to the report of Drag-Knight scouts, the kind was a large-sized one.

The place of emergence was estimated to be the ruins in the south west, and the appearance time was late at night.

There was talk about the fact that between the Fort City and the ruins, three strongholds existed, but the security network around the ruins and the first stronghold were already broken through, and the situation was urgent.

"Currently, we are being stationed in the second and third strongholds and several Drag-Knights of the district defense unit are heading to the subjugation. But, the enemy is a large-sized one. In preparation for the possibility that it breaks through and damage extends to the Fort City, we will also form an interception unit and prepare for battle. Get ready and stay on alert while waiting for orders."

In an unusually serious voice, instructor Raigree explained so and ended the talk.

There was the explanation that a reinforcement demand had already been sent to the Capital.

Some female and male students sighed in relief after hearing that, but––

"They really are a bunch of peace idiots, eh. The young ladies and gentlemen of this academy."

"Eh...?"

To the mutter of Krulcifer who was standing alongside the wall of the hangar, Nhazul unintentionally asked back.

"They shouldn't expect reinforcements from the Capital so easily."

"What do you mean? Everyone who is here are officer cadets, right? Unless the Drag-Knights of the army from the Capital come––"

"Your voice is too loud, Nhazul-kun."

Sharis who came around suddenly put her index finger on his mouth and smiled wryly.

"Just to note, you're a former Prince and a Drag-Knight. I thought you knew the circumstances on that point about this country's military situation."

"To put it simply, there is a lack of manpower. That's the practical problem."

Tillfarr who was on the side supplemented so while shrugging her shoulders.

"Yes. Even you should know that this isn't an ordinary city."

And as Nokuto added, she slowly walked towards the door going outside.

"Where do you intend to go?"

"We are of the "Knight Squadron". So we should proactively take the initiative in case of emergency. Those living in this place certainly have some benefits; but there are always ups and downs."

Now that the Drag-Knights of the army were almost all out, there was military power which could oppose the Abyss.

Sharis returned a smile and the three girls went out as such.

They would probably wear their Machine Dragons in the practice field and head to the subjugation of the Abyss.

"Well then, Nhazul. I'm going."

Coming to pat his shoulder with her hand was Lisha wearing a Dress Gear.

The attack of a large-sized Abyss.

In spite of the tense situation, Lisha's expression showed no signs of tension.

"Please, be careful."

"I'll be all right. I'm strong after all. However, it's regrettable that you can't accompany me. Even though I intended to use this opportunity to teach you how to attack."

Lisha showed a smile as if her depression from yesterday had never existed.

She should be all right at this rate.

Nhazul felt relieved and saw off Lisha.

Upon close inspection, from within the hangar, most of the members of the "Knight Squadron" were not there.

Only Philphie who could use a Divine Drag-Ride seemed to remain for the defense of the Fort City, almost all the others seemed to have sortied for the Abyss subjugation.

Nhazul was at a loose end since familiar faces temporarily disappeared.

As he turned his gaze to the vicinity, the face of Krulcifer who was leaning her back on the wall could be seen.

"Krulcifer-san, even though you're of the "Knight Squadron", you didn't go for the subjugation?"

As Nhazul stepped up and asked so,

"For overseas students from foreign countries like me, an original battle standard is established by the school regulations."

She plainly answered with her expression which did not change at all.

"I have no obligation to be involved in a direct battle with the Abyss. Otherwise, I can at least cooperate with other forms of support, such as information transfer and goods supply beyond the scope of danger to my life. I can help if I want, but a complain will come from my country, so I don't intend to do so."

Krulcifer was an overseas student from Ymir, a large country in the north.

If learning the technology and knowledge of Machine Dragons was the purpose, to take the initiative, and fight in the crisis of other countries and lose their life would be the most unreasonable.

In other words, it meant that the "Knight Squadron" led by Lisha would be exposed to danger.

"..."

As Nhazul was at a loss for words to that fact,

"You don't really need to worry about it."

"Eh...?"

"We aren't people who should fight now. It's natural that even such situation happen. You're a general student who hasn't even joined the "Knight Squadron". So, there's no need to be concerned about being unable to fight. You should just obey the directives of the instructor."

"..."

Nhazul could not answer anything.

"Nii-kun. You mustn't go."

As Nhazul was separated from the crowd, Leeanna came over in front of him.

"With that Wyvern, you can't attack and you can't use the other sword. There is nothing that your current self can do, Nii-san. If it's Lisha-sama and the "Knight Squadron" who are there, they can defeat even a large-sized Abyss. So––"

"I know. I know, but…"

Nhazul spoke ambiguously while nodding.

The military power of the "Knight Squadron" was reduced to half, by the fact that the third-year students who accounted for half the number of the members, had gone to the Capital for practice.

Even so, about ten Drag-Knights were strength enough to be able to find a chance of victory against a large-sized Abyss.

But, something seemed awry.

He remembered that the Abyss which attacked them at the time of the duel with Lisha a few days ago.

For the Abyss whose appearance rate was always low, two had appeared in this short period of time.

When Lux had guarded the ruins of the frontier before as an odd job, the Abyss appeared only once a month.

Of course, there was also the possibility of coincidence, but––

"Is there anything bothering you? From now, I plan to only see the situation from a distant position, but––"

"No…"

"Then, I'm going."

"Please, be careful."

As Krulcifer got up to leave, Nhazul began to walk slowly in the hangar. In order to look for unknown questions and answers.

...

A very spacious wasteland about 3km away from the Fort City.

At one time, it was covered with a carpet of grasslands and there were several villages and settlements, but due to the influence of ruins and the Abyss which appeared more than ten years ago, all these were destroyed and there was only abandoned wreckage.

The first stronghold which was the closest to the ruins, and the second stronghold had already been broken through.

It was said that the guard troops of the Kingdom army that could fight, was in the middle of gathering neighbouring soldiers and reorganizing.

Stopping the Abyss heading to the Fort City would depend on the "Knight Squadron"'s activity.

"Is this thing –– that Abyss?"

From the ground and the sky about 200 miles away from the target, about ten members of the "Knight Squadron" confirmed the Abyss.

It had no legs. From its trapezoidal large build like jelly, two arms like spires stretched left and right, and two purple spheres like eyeballs were floating inside the body close to the top of the head.

It was just that much a creature.

A Slime type said to have almost no intelligence.

However, that Abyss, a large-sized one as the report said, boasted of an extraordinary large build which could swallow a castle.

In the inner part of its translucent body, a slightly dark red sphere –– the thing called the core could be seen.

And the frightening thing was that castle like large build was moving.

It looked like the speed of the degree which a child runs at, but considering its huge size, it was too fast.

The question now was how they should conquer it––

"Okay, I will fire."

Lisha who was left the command suddenly set up her Breath Gun with a smile.

It loaded energy from the Force Core to the cannon.

The main weapon of the Chimeric Wyvern took aim at the Abyss' core.

"Are you going to shoot all of a sudden!?"

One member of the "Knight Squadron" that was behind her shouted so as she was frightened.

"It won't begin unless I try, right? Here I go!"

Lisha, showing no signs of being scared pulled the trigger of the cannon.

*boom*, the huge light pillar which was released hit the slime's abdomen.

"Goboh… Gubaaah!"

Immediately after, the shock dashed across the Abyss' body surface.

And *splash*, its mucus scattered.

"…!?"

Since they took enough distance, the mucus did not reach the "Knight Squadron".

But, the mucus which scattered to the ground fell onto the grass and melted it in no time.

The third-year student Sharis who saw that called out to the whole "Knight Squadron" using dragon voice.

『If you touch its body, you'll turn out like that. It looks like we can't count on the Machine Dragon's barrier that much.』

『Yes. It would be best for us to avoid close combat. I think we should all prepare our shooting armaments. Lizsharte-sama.』

Nokuto asked for instructions.

But, before Lisha could answer,

"Hey!? More importantly, look at that!?"

Tillfarr in a panicked voice pointed at one point with the blade in her hand.

There, a shadow––,

"Gopoh, Gopopopoh…"

Without caring about Lisha's bombardment, the Abyss continued its advance.

No, it reacted to the attack and increased its movement speed.

Climbing over the third stronghold which was before it, it was imminently approaching the last defense point –– the rampart of the Fort City second block.

"The bombardment didn't work…?"

Among the general-purpose Machine Dragons that posseses a Breath Gun, the Chimeric Wyvern used one which had the highest power.

However, the bombardment only flipped a part of the body surface it didn't touch the core at all.

Even the holes pierced on its body were filled by the surrounding body fluids, and it regenerated in less than ten seconds.

"Tch… It looks like that big thing's body is made of a troublesome mucus. It seems to scatter the Breath Gun's power by conveying the impact and heat to the whole surrounding body fluids"

Lisha, though subtly clicking her tongue, kept her calm.

"So, what's the strategy? Commander."

To the question of Sharis who was staying in the air nearby, Lisha snorted,

『It's obvious. Simultaneous shootings while aiming at the core. Everyone, take a distance of 200 miles and load to the maximum. The power will fall if you're too far. I'll do the countdown. Understood?』

As she also called out to the "Knight Squadron" above ground using the dragon voice, Lisha let the energy fill her own cannon.

(With this, we can surely defeat it. It's our win.)

Lisha was convinced of her victory.

A concentrated fire (barrage) released by a dozen Drag-Knights.

Based on the previous bombardment, as long as she confirmed the situation of the body fluids scattering, this power should be able to go through.

"I'll begin the countdown. We all shoot at zero… 5, 4, 3…"

Following Lisha's orders, all the machines set up their cannons loaded to the maximum.

––Iiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiii!

"2, 1, sho––"

At that time. The strange sound of a flute resounded from somewhere in the neighbourhood.

(Where is this sound? From the rear of the Abyss––)

When Lizsharte thought so in the corner of her head, the shock of the salvo shook the atmosphere.

At the same time, something unusual occurred to the Abyss before their eyes.

"What…!?"

The dark red core inside the body that they were aiming at.

It suddenly swelled like foam filled with wreckage.

"Goaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaah!"

Immediately after, before the bombardment hit, the Abyss burst itself.

The explosion of the core.

High heat and impact which far exceeded expectations painted out the field of vision and surged.

『Deploy a barrier! Also use the Machine Dragon roar!』

Lisha's shout was drowned out by a roaring sound and disappeared.

As Nhazul was aimlessly walking inside the Machine Dragon hangar, on the other side of an opened door there was a staircase leading to the basement.

"There was such a place, huh…?"

Nhazul's feet naturally headed to the basement.

As he quietly opened the door within reach, there –– Philphie was there.

His childhood friend who was a user of a Divine Drag-Ride was sitting on a small chair, absent minded as usual.

"…Philphie?"

She was a girl with an usually mysterious impression, but Nhazul felt a strange presence and called out to her.

"…"

But –– there was no response.

Something was strange.

As if she did not hear Nhazul's voice since the beginning.

"I can hear, a sound."

However, staring at one point of the wall as such, Philphie said.

"A sound?"

When Nhazul asked so,

"A sound."

Philphie muttered as she repeated.

Nhazul's ears could not hear anything.

But,

"I can hear the sound of a flute… from the other side."

"…!?"

*badump*

To her words spat out absent mindedly, Nhazul's heart bounced.

『After all, if you were done in without being able to properly defeat the army, I would have had no choice but to call the Abyss using the "flute".』

The tone of the flute.

The Abyss' sudden attack during the duel with Lisha.

The timing of the third-year students of the "Knight Squadron" being away.

All the gears were linked; one answer was born.

"Don't tell me––"

*Dooong*

Suddenly, a vibration like the ground rumbling shook the hangar.

"…I'll go check out the situation, Philphie."

"Yes. Please, Nha-chan." With only her voice, Philphie saw off Nhazul who left the basement with a serious face.

"Go help, in my stead––"

She muttered so at the end with a hollow expression.

…

The military unit "Knight Squadron" which was fighting the Abyss fell into a partially destroyed state.

"Ku, aah…!"

"U…ku, ah…!"

With the sound of acid burning, several Machine Dragons' armors melted.

There were also many members who switched from cannon or blade, which they had in hand, to a shield; their armaments had already become unusable.

Even the Drag-Knights who were flying were blown away due to the shock of the explosion, and all of them were dropped on the ground.

"…Kuh! To all machines of the "Knight Squadron" platoon, evacuate! We will rebuild our posture once again. Those who can't use any weapons, step back for the moment!"

The failure of the planned attack.

And knitting her brows at the reality of there being great damage, Lisha groaned.

"We can still fully fight! Don't panic!"

Calling out so to her comrades, she tried to raise their willpower.

But,

『Hou, you've really gotten used to acting like a Princess, eh, Lizsharte.』

"…!?"

Suddenly, through dragon voice from somewhere –– a man's voice which became hoarse could be heard.

It was not a member of the "Knight Squadron".

It was a Drag-Knight attached to the defense corps of the New Kingdom army that had chased after the Abyss which broke through the strongholds.

A man wearing a gray Machine Dragon and standing still in the sky, at the rear of the Abyss which charged, could be seen.

『But you know? You aren't of such caliber.』

"You bastard, what are you saying––…!?"

Immediately after her words, a flash bombardment was released by that Drag-Knight towards Lisha.

『Commander!』

『Princess!』

The screams of the Knight Squadron echoed in the dragon voice communication.

"Kuh…!"

It was at a timing where she was completely taken back, but Lisha barely evaded a direct hit.

But, the bombardment which grazed broke the armor and she fell over sideways on the ground with the Chimeric Wyvern.

『Uh… Kuh! What the hell are you trying do…!? Captain of the guard corps deployed from the Royal Capital––』

Lisha glared at the Drag-Knight standing still in the sky and shouted so.

In response, the man in his prime, serenely,

『You are mistaken.』

Declared so as if ridiculing her.

『It's from the Imperial Capital that I came, Your Highness Princess Lizsharte. Acadia Empire, Imperial Guards Knight Squadron Chief, Velvet Barth is my name.』

『…!?』

To the polite voice heard through the dragon voice, all of the "Knight Squadron" members present gasped in surprise.

After the Old Empire was destroyed by the coup d'état.

The Drag-Knights survivors which were on the Empire side were once put in jail as war criminals.

However, those who pledged allegiance to the New Kingdom and were proven of their innocence once again became officers as the New Kingdom's Drag-Knights, but––

Hearing the lines "I came from the Imperial capital", Lisha guessed the man's identity.

An enemy of this country.

The rebel army which was scheming the restoration of the Old Empire, and the man who carried that will in his body.

"So you betrayed the New Kingdom? And you even went as far as to expressly pull an Abyss from the ruins––"

『Do not say a disgraceful thing like betraying. I got back on the right track. I obtained power.』

The voice of a man who was elated with success could be heard in the head through the dragon voice.

『Did you think that you could beat me with one surprise attack? Your arrogance will cause your loss, Velvet.』

Being shot on the flight device, Lisha calmly set up.

Velvet who also saw that had a composed expression.

『I can win. After all, luring you out like this was also to create a chance for victory.』

The gray Drag-Ride got down from the sky.

Strengthened Flight Type Machine Dragon EX Wyvern where there was the Old Empire's army symbol on the coating.

The guard squad commander, Velvet picked up a small golden flute in front of the Abyss which fell in the mud.

『Now, hatch out. Eggs.』

And, he put his mouth on the flute with a cruel smile.

A never heard before harsh dissonance resounded on the rough earth.

Just after.

On the surface of the Abyss which had exploded and crumbled down in the mud, countless oil slicks bubblingly floated.

The small bubbles pimply increased in size at a high speed and popped off all at once.

"That is––!?"

The members of the "Knight Squadron" stared wide-eyed in surprise.

What came out were birdmen of black metal.

A herd of Gargoyles like the one which attacked the academy a few days ago.

They were born from the Abyss' body.

『O-Ohé, ohé…』

『Such a number…! Even though we have never fought more than two Abysses at the same time…』

『What do we do… I haven't heard about this––』

『In the first place, to think that the garrison in the army were enemies…』

Multiple voices overlapped on the dragon voice's line.

Giant bubbles of despair were born and burst.

*puff*

*puff* *puff*

*puff* *puff* *puff* *puff*

Black metal wings gradually covered the sky of the morning glow from which the day began to rise.

There were about 30 Gargoyle Type Abysses.

An enemy force of more than about 120 machines in terms of full-fledged Drag-Knights was born in that place.

"––Awaken, Founding Ancestor. King of the Dragon Gods that is an Army in itself. Tiamat!"

Lisha cancelled the connection to the damaged Chimeric Wyvern and wore her Divine Drag-Ride Tiamat.

However,

『Lisha-sama! Please, prepare for withdrawal! A fight with this level of military power is dangerous!』

One member of the Knight Squadron shouted so through the dragon voice communication, but Lisha gave her head a small shake.

『Sorry, but it seems to be impossible. The enemy has wings. Even if we run away into the Fort City, they will fly over the wall. We have no choice but to fight them here.』

『B-But––. We will gain time, so at least Lisha-sama must escape! You who is the Princess cannot die here. Also for the sake of the people of the New Kingdom which finally obtained peace.』

Moreover, another member shouted so as to urge her.

But––

『Do you mean–– surviving is also a Princess' duty?』

Lisha's wry smile came back through the dragon voice.

『Then, I'm not fit to be a Princess after all.』

With these lines, she lonely turned around.

『It's bothersome, I'm not good at it. At surviving by sacrificing someone, extolling someone's death as heroic, doing at least one speech to the citizens who survived and being exposed to applause.』

『…』

『That's why I will fight. It's surely the mission which I can do as a Princess.』

As soon as she asserted this, Lisha's Tiamat flew.

『Tell all the Knight Squadron's members, from here on we will engage the enemy. Those unable to fight as well as the injured should take shelter within the walls. The members who can fight, cover me. Go down a little to not be hit by the LegionAirborne Fortress.』

『Lizsharte-sama…』

Even the "Knight Squadron"'s members who felt her resolution in her tone regained their calm naturally.

『Nokuto. You return to the Fort City, explain about this situation to the academy and ask for orders; can you do it?』

『Yes. Roger.』

Immediately after her answer, Nokuto's Drake glided towards Cross Feed.

At the same time, the members of the "Knight Squadron" set up their remaining armaments all at once.

"Now, let's play. Traitors."

Wielding her Sword Device, Lisha summoned her auxiliary armaments.

Twelve more Airborne Fortress and the ultra-fired gun Seven-Headed Dragon.

"That's quite a foolish mouth you have, Princess."

The defense squad Commander Velvet twisted his mouth in an arc, and once again pushed his lips to the flute.

...

"––That's all, but I will confirm by sight from a long distance, the current war situation that I heard through dragon voice from Nokuto-san."

The students staying on standby fell silent to the fact which Krulcifer brought back with the speed of her Divine Drag-Ride Fafnir.

"Withdraw from Cross Feed? Or fight back? It is necessary to decide this. The enemy is already closing in right now after all."

"Understood. I thank you for your cooperation. Krulcifer."

At the same time as instructor Raigree answered, a heavy silence filled the Machine Dragon Hangar.

Having brought the Abysses was a man of the rebel army, who was the defense squad commander and somebody that inherited the will of the Old Empire.

The biggest military power of the Fort City at present, the "Knight Squadron" was on the verge of annihilation.

With that fact being thrust at them, the female officer cadet students were at a loss for words.

"…"

Meanwhile, Nhazul was about to go out of the hangar.

In front of the door heading to the outside, Airi was standing there with a worried expression.

"Where do you intend to go? Nii-kun."

Leeanna asked Nhazul who had an expression showing that he had already made up his mind.

With an obstinate expression which muffled something.

"I am going to help Lisha-sama."

"You can't!"

Leeanna flatly told so.

"With that Wyvern, even if you can defend, you can't defeat the Abyss; you also can't use the other sword. There's nothing that the current you can do, Nii-san."

"But––"

"I understand Nii-kun's feelings. But, in this world, there are things which can't be helped. No matter how much you do your best, there are many things which can't be reversed. We, the Old Empire's royalty should have seen it as unpleasant as it was!"

Throwing off her usually clear expression, Leeanna appealed to him.

knew what she meant by that.

"Weren't we fighting for justice? Don't forget our purpose. Do you plan to die here? Please. For this country, we––"

"You're wrong, Leeanna"

Nhazul interrupted Leeanna's words and suddenly smiled.

"My purpose isn't to defeat the Empire. It's to defeat the enemy who takes important people away from me."

"…"

"I'll be all right, Leeanna. I won't leave you alone, so––"

Leeanna calmly looked downward at those words.

"I've already finished the output adjustment of that Machine Dragon. It has to the bitter end been analyzed by me who's both a nurse and teacher , but… I cannot guarantee more than ten minutes…"

"Thank you."

As Nhazul smiled at his Big sister, he approached Krulcifer who was outside the door.

"Krulcifer-san. I have a request."

"…What is it?"

"Please activate your Fafnir. Not to cover me, but to save Lisha-sama. You are the only person who can go out of the Fort City right now."

As Nhazul turned straight eyes -[need to fix] and said so,

"Didn't I say it before? I cannot go fight using this life that belongs to the religious country Ymir."

Krulcifer told so in a calm tone until the bitter end.

But––

"I know the identity of the "Black Hero". Let's make a deal. I'll tell you if you listen to my request."

"…"

One could clearly feel even without seeing that Airi had turned her gaze away from Nhazul.

"All right."

Krulcifer nodded after a short pause.

"Then, let's go."

And then, the two people unsheathed their Sword Devices at the same time.

...

A mortal combat was unfolding in the battlefield of the wasteland.

30 metallic flying type Abysses; the Gargoyles' fierce attack.

And for some reason, the defense squad commander Velvet who wasn't attacked by the Abysses, was looking at that hell from the rear like a commander.

Was it the power of the flute which he holds in his hand? It looked like he commanded the Abysses and controlled their movements.

"Kuh…! Haah!"

Lisha roughened her breathing and put strength to all parts of her limbs.

She perturbed the opponents with a total of 16 LegionAirborne Fortress, blocked their movements with the Divine Raiment Heavenly Voice, Gravity Control, and surely consigned them to oblivion with the maximum bombardment of the Seventh HeadsSeven-Headed Dragon at last.

An extreme battle which fully used the three major armaments of the Divine Drag-Ride Tiamat.

She performed an attack with output beyond the limit consecutively and the Knight Squadron's members who covered her were also making frantic efforts, but they were still outnumbered.

Even so, without loosening the offensive, she continued to reduce the enemies' number little by little, but––

"Kuh… Haa!"

Finally, the limit which couldn't be extended with just feelings was approaching.

Her vision grew hazy and her hands and feet no longer did what she wanted.

"Haa… Haa…!"

There was about a dozen of the Gargoyle type Abyss remaining.

Of course, even if only one was remaining, it was not an opponent to which you could let your guard down, but finally the chance of being able to execute the last plan came.

"Sharis, Tillfarr… are you safe?"

Narrowing down the dragon voice to only the "Knight Squadron"' members, Lisha called out to them.

『…I'm sorry, but Princess, I was saved by a comrade and have already begun to withdraw.』

『Yes, it looks like I'm also at my limit… My armaments have been blown off along with the armor of both my hands––』

To the reply with a voice which got husky, Lisha smiled wryly.

She was rather thankful to her friends who fought with her in the middle of an overwhelming force difference.

『You guys should withdraw. Instead, I have a request. Tell the instructors who are in the Fort City to come out to attack. If my aim from now on succeeds, that is.』

『Princess. Don't tell me it's…?』

Sharis guessed Lisha's intention.

『Yes, I'm –– going to aim at the boss who possesses that flute.』

It was recorded that Abysses originally had the habit of attacking living things indiscriminately.

Nevertheless, that defense squad captain Velvet who sided with the Old Empire, far from being attacked, showed no signs that he could get caught up by their attacks.

And, the golden flute which the man possessed was not a Drag-Ride's armament.

It was probably a treasure of the ruins, and he was manipulating the Abysses using it.

In short, if she could even do something about that flute, or if she defeated even Velvet, it was likely that the Abysses would lose control.

She couldn't do it until now as the numbers were too much, but her chance had finally come.

"––How unsightly, Lizsharte. Originally, it was a mistake in the first place that the likes of a bitch like you, who must have lived waiting upon a man even if for a while, to sit on the seat of Princess."

Velvet who was staying in the air behind the Abysses was looking down at Lisha with a smile of mockery-

"Hmm. So that's to say, men are fellows like you who act conceited and make up repetitive excuses after it's over? And yet, they can only say things when they are in an absolutely advantageous situation, huh. I see; then it's natural that the Empire has been destroyed by we, the women."

"…You've some nerve. No, I shall give praise for that remarkable bluff. Even though you're exhausted to the extent that the Divine Drag-Ride which you wear has already begun its rampage."

As Velvet sneered at her, he put his lips to the flute and sent a breath.

A strange noise that was hard to describe resounded, and the Abysses came back behind Velvet all at once.

"As you wish. I'll ride on the one-on-one fight that you desire. I shall give a glorious death in battle to you."

Setting up a large-sized blade in an overhead position, Velvet declare so.

"What a funny joke. It will only be a shame even if my life was taken by a small thing like you."

As Lisha returned a smile to that, she pulled a small blade and flew up.

Divine Drag-Ride Tiamat vs. Strengthened Flying Type Machine Dragon EX Wyvern.

If the users' technique, stamina and equipment were equivalent, Tiamat was an advantageous combination in a difference of air frame performance, but now it was different.

Lisha accumulated fatigue to the extent of vomiting blood and her armor was also crumbly.

Her special abilities –– not only weren't there the Heavenly Voice Divine Raiment, there were also neither the strength to operate the LegionAirborne Fortress nor the spare energy to perform a bombardment with the Seventh HeadsSeven-Headed Dragon.

It was even difficult to fly straight to where Velvet was, who was waiting in the sky.

If it was a one-on-one fight, the result could be seen.

The enemy was also confident about it.

Precisely because of this reason–– there was a chance of victory

"Come on, you should scatter that life! False princess!"

The moment when the energy from the Force Core streamed down Velvet's large sword.

Lisha threw her set-up blade before his eyes.

"––!?"

The throwing of the small sword. At the same time, Tiamat which was rising suddenly stopped.

It wasn't limited to just Drag-Knights, if you lose your weapon on a battlefield, it will lead to an immediate death.

Velvet cut off the blade which was thrown with his large sword swung downward.

"Fool, did you think that such a move would work?"

There were no substitute weapons in Lisha's hands.

The fight was decided.

"Haha. It's you who made a mistake."

Lisha's small laughter reached the ears of Velvet who was facing her.

Her hands were holding slender twin swords.

The two Swords Devices corresponding to the Chimeric Wyvern.

Once one wore a Machine Dragon, the Sword Device could only be used as a control stick.

If the Sword Device to control the Machine Dragon was taken away or destroyed, one's defeat was decided.

Aside of using it that way, it was for self-defense before wearing a Machine Dragon, it could not be used as a weapon after wearing the machine.

Thus originally, it was an attack which could not be predicted.

If it was a Sword Device where the Force Core was used in a part of the sword blade, one could also break through the barrier of a Drag-Ride.

Velvet had completely exposed an opening immediately after shaking off his large sword.

(Got you!)

The moment when Lisha wielded her twin swords with conviction,

"It's a shame, bitch."

"Wha––!?"

Lisha's senses became dull as if time stopped.

As if the flow of time which she felt slipped through her recognition.

*dong*

Velvet's large sword was swung first.

The fragment of the armor scattered before Lisha's eyes.

In the blue sky where the sun rose, one red flower bloomed.

"Ku, ah…!"

The twin swords being flipped, Lisha who had a part of her armor broken fell to the ground.

As if seeking something, she stretched out her right hand to the sky and suddenly ran out of energy as such.

『Lisha-sama!』

A member of the "Knight Squadron" that was preparing for withdrawal screamed.

But –– it was no use.

The dozen of Abysses which had been on standby quickly moved and stood in the way, as they formed a wall between Lisha and the "Knight Squadron".

"Ha! Hahahahaha!"

Velvet's sneer resounded in the wasteland and the sky.

"W-What… is this…?"

Hearing Lisha's groan, Velvet fearlessly smiled.

"Quick Draw"––. It's a kind of Drag-Knight secret art once handed down to the Empire's army. After reaching the Imperial Guardsman Knight Squadron's head, and after five more years of training –– I finally mastered it."

"Quick Draw"

A mind control operation in addition to the body control operation.

A special move that dishes out unseen attacks with just one stroke, in an instant, through a sequence of movements from the perfect overlap of manipulating two differing systems.

The Drag-Knights' three secret arts had been handed down as a legend even after the New Kingdom establishment, and a person who mastered even one of them was praised as a super first class user.

"I have been sharpening my fangs for this time for five years after the day of the coup d'état. I endured the painful act of becoming the watchdog of you damn bitches. Hahahahahaha! It's the best feeling!"

"You low-life…!"

Lisha, still lying face up with her arms and legs outstretched, chewed her lower lip.

"With this, I've achieved my purpose. Afterwards, I'll hold you hostage and only use you as in a deal with the Queen."

Velvet played the flute and called back the Abysses behind him.

Lisha herself had no more cards to play.

"Kuh…"

She pulled the trigger with a fingertip as she struggled, but Tiamat no longer reacted.

(Finally, this time has come again…)

As her consciousness become cloudy due to fatigue and bleeding, Lisha suddenly heard a voice.

『Lisha-sama!』

『––N-Nhazul…?』

A dragon voice limited to only her could be heard through Tiamat which could no longer move.

Is it a dream, or an auditory hallucination?

Lisha though that either was fine if she could talk to him at the end.

『Haa… my bad. I've been defeated. Haha…』

『Only a little more. Please stay conscious only a little more. If you do so––』

『Forget about me, abandon me. You don't need to worry. It may be conceited, but you don't need to come help me, so…』

Thanks to that, a small of amount of strength welled up within her.

『Instead, listen; keep my secret until the end––』

...

… Like this, do you think that you won?"

While speaking with Nhazul through dragon voice, Lisha muttered so towards the enemy before her.

Her gaze was directed far backwards –– behind Velvet standing stock still in the sky.

"Hou. What do you mean by that? Very interesting indeed."

"I haven't given up yet. I still have a way to defeat you."

"Kuhahahaha! What a pathetic woman. I'm amazed beyond laughter. To think that you––"

Laughing so, Velvet looked back behind himself.

"I hope that you aren't thinking that those are reinforcements from the Capital."

"––––"

The moment she heard that, the face of Lisha who was desperately kept her consciousness turned pale.

Lisha who was lying down saw nearly 100 Machine Dragons from the other side of the wasteland –– behind Velvet coming their way.

But–– all of them were gray.

The same color as the coating of the Old Empire from before –– the rebel army!

"How foolish of you, Princess Lizsharte. No, just a slave who betrayed our Empire, right? That's your true identity––"

"…Kuh!?"

The moment she heard that, Lisha's voice was clogged.

The hand which was holding the Sword Device began to tremble with a clattering sound, and her crimson pupils shook.

"Hahaha! How nostalgic, young lady. That's right! It's me, Lizsharte. The one who put the mark of the Empire on your belly! To you who was abandoned by the Earl House, you had no value as a hostage. That's why I taught you how to use a Drag-Ride in order to make you live as an assassin…"

"Ku, a, aah…"

A soundless scream was squeezed out from Lisha's throat.

A scream of despair dyed in a bottomless darkness.

"But, the coup d'état succeeded and you, who was saved luckily, was declared Princess as if nothing ever happened. Your little sister who was left as the inheritor died, and it became inconvenient, so another one was picked up. Kukuku, what a cruel country, eh. This New Kingdom."

Before she could say something, Velvet set up his large sword while ridiculing her.

The 100 Drag-Rides which rushed in as Velvet's reinforcements had already surrounded the area.

Wyvern, Wyrm, and Drake. A total of a hundred machines of the three types of general-purpose Machine Dragons.

In addition, a dozen of Gargoyle type Abysses who waited for the signal of the flute.

It was a military power which could gain total control of the Fort City at this rate –– no, even take away the Machine Dragon Hangar and the academy, and invade the Capital as it is.

"But, it's convenient now. I'll have you become our bargaining chip as a "real Princess". Isn't it nice? Lizsharte. You are a person on the side of our Empire. If you understand, then kneel on the ground and say that –– you will be our slave."

"…"

Lisha did not react to the triumphant Velvet.

She was sending her voice towards Nhazul.

『… Listen, Nhazul Ryuadia. You know? I ran away. I wasn't able to die as a daughter of the proud Earl House.』

A hollow voice was sent to Nhazul through the dragon voice.

『Knowing that I was abandoned by my father, I was told to choose either becoming an assassin of the Empire or die. I was so scared that I wasn't able to kill myself. Therefore, I once gave up on everything and decided to become a person of the Empire. From the beginning –– I wasn't qualified to be a Princess.』

『…Lisha, sama』

『It was hard for me to behave like a Princess. But in fact, I wanted to become one, too. I, a person who betrayed the Empire once, might be saying something selfish. But you know; now I like everyone… I wished to be recognized this time for sure.』

『Me too––』

The voice of Nhazul who took a deep breath came back.

『I also have something to say. Sorry for having kept quiet about it. It's something important. I want you to hear it. So––』

『Ah, sorry, it looks like I have no more time. Well then––』

Lisha smiled wryly and looked up at the sky.

『Take care of yourself, Prince.』

*kin*

Immediately after, a long straight light ran straight through the atmosphere.

"Ku, ah… y-you bastaaaaaard…!?"

The first and last weapon which Lisha threw at high speed.

It was the Sword Device of the Divine Drag-Ride Tiamat.

Lisha threw that lifeline which one must absolutely never let go, aiming at Velvet high up in the sky –– and, although taken by surprise, it had been barely dodged.

On his cheek, a red line which was cut just now was running.

"Fufu. Aren't you a little good-looking now? You should be happy, underling; you will look good enough to be shown publicly when taking me to the Capital."

"Kuh, nuuh…!"

Holding his wound, Velvet glared at Lisha lying down face up.

"As a Princess even for an instant, I shall warn you. You should stop; someone of your caliber can't destroy this country. You're just an underling who was surely incited by someone's sweet words and rode on them. You obtained power, you say? Don't speak gibberish. You've –– changed nothing. You're just the same like in those days when you were only used by the Old Empire."

A momentary silence.

But meanwhile, Velvet's whole body was shivering and trembling in anger.

"––All right, Lizsharte. I changed my mind. I will tear you to pieces, throw your corpse into the royal palace and just invade it like that! Die here!"

Velvet set up the EX Wyvern's cannon.

Lisha stared at it in a slightly distant look.

"Haa. It's frustrating."

Shedding large drops of tears, she looked up at the high sky.

"Even though I was thinking that I'll behave like a Princess; without crying till the end this time even if I'm scared…"

When she muttered so, a shadow fell on Lizsharte's body.

It's over.

When she held such a conviction,

*dooh*, the bombardment was released and the atmosphere burst.

Soon after all was wrapped in huge flames––

"What…!?"

A blue Machine Dragon –– Nhazul's Wyvern was there.

He deployed the barrier at maximum output and defended against the impact with his armor.

But, the Wyvern which took a direct hit from the main cannon was smashed to pieces on the spot.

"Kuh…! I don't know who it is, but stop this useless struggle––"

Velvet, whose bombardment was repelled for the price of a Machine Dragon, chewed his teeth and set up his large sword.

The army of Machine Dragons which was waiting behind him set up their weapons all at once as it was the signal of attack.

"…? Why––"

"…Sorry, Lisha-sama. Even though I had you repair it with much trouble."

At the same time, standing in the way before Lisha lying down face up, Nhazul revealed a lonely smile.

Then, he cancelled the connection of the seriously damaged Wyvern and quickly put his hand on the other Sword Device remaining on his waist.

"I don't care about you crows and bastards !" Nhazul roared, Raynare and everyone from the revolution sneering as she shouted

"How dare you!? Just for that I'm going to make your death painful as possible"

"Bring it! When I kill you I will bring Asia back!" Nhazul shouted as he slipped into a fighting stance

[DRAGON BOOSTER!] The jewel on the gauntlet shone brightly before mysterious marks started to appear on the gauntlet as power started to flow into Nhazul, who charged to punch Raynare, who dodged easily as Lucifer quietly spoke to not disturb his host

{Amazing…}

"I will explain it so even a dummy can understand. It's a simple power difference. I have a power of 1000. You have a power of 1. You cannot shorten the gap between us. Even with the ability of that Sacred Gear, the power doubled is only 2. It can't be helped. How can you win against me!?"

[Boost!] The mark on the jewel changed from I to II as Nhazul felt the extra power course through his body, charging with his "Knight" class speed only to miss again as Raynare spoke

"Wow! Did your power increase a bit? Still it's not enough!"

{Yukio you can hold Amonusen in its sealed form now} Lucifer spoke up shocked; Nhazul summoning his other Sacred Gear to his gauntlet covered hand quickly after as Raynare's face dropped as she shouted

"Amonusen! But how?" She prepared a spear of light to throw at Nhazul, the silver haired teen batting it away with his sealed weapon as he shouted as he charged, intent to use the covered weapon against her

"Guaaaahhh!" Raynare managed to dodge again, only to find herself having to work harder to dodge his attacks around the sanctuary until Yukio's gauntlet shouted again

[Boost!] Raynare was surprised as Nhazul dodged her spear of light before bringing Amonusen over his head onto her back smashing her into the ground which spider webbed under her. Nhazul lifted the blade again, Raynare's wounds healing within a few moments before she was smashed further into the ground by his next hit.

"Let's end this Sacred Gears!" Nhazul shouted, lifting the blade again as the jewel shouted, shining bright piercing light.

[Explosion!] The sealing clothe started to glow a red as he brought the blade down on her again, a loud roar of an explosion echoing through the sanctuary as a fissure formed along the floor and up the wall from his attack.

{He used that attack so easily} Lucifer spoke surprised at how his host had pulled off such a move already as Nhazul rested Amonusen against his shoulder as he looked down at Raynare

"Impossible. What is this? Why? That Sacred Gear is suppose to be "Twice Critical", a Sacred Gear that doubles the power of the possessor…and you possess Amonusen…Why didn't I sense this power that surpasses mine before…the wave of demonic power is that of a High-class…no… that of a Super-class Devil…" Raynare spoke shocked as her wounds healed her body which was still weak. Nhazul's eyes widened slightly at that comment, sparing a glance to his red gauntlet which had changed during the fight as Raynare continued in denial

"Lies! This is all lies! I am the Fallen Angel that has the ultimate healing power! I turned into a superior being by obtaining this "Twilight Healing"! I received the right to be loved by Azarel-sama and Shemhaza-sama! I wouldn't lose to someone low like you…"

Raynare flew into the air, a spear of light in each hand, which she threw at him. Nhazul spun Amonusen to deflect both of them away as he rested the tip against the ground before him, a serious look on his face as he continued staring at her shocked expression, waves of killing intent coming from Yukio's body.

"No…!" Raynare shouted as she tried to make her escape flying up into the air.

"Sealing Clothe!" Nhazul called, the loose piece of clothe from the hilt wiggling slightly before shooting at her wrapping around her arm before he pulled her into the ground easily as he added

"I won't let you get away, crow" Walking calmly towards her he swung his weapon out to his left, the weapon gaining a red aura over it as she tried to break free from the part of clothe that was still attached to her. With a simple swing the wave of energy blasted out again smashing into Raynare before forcing her to into the now broken wall which fell down atop of her, a large fissure in the wall she'd been launched into.

Nhazul drew out his Sword Device from the black sheath and held it up to the sky with his gauntlet,The Boosted Gear.

At the same time as he pressed the button on the handle, he muttered.

"––Manifest, Violent Dragon which devours the gods' flesh and blood. Cut off the cloudy heavens, Bahamut!"

At that moment, particles of light gathered at high speed.

What appeared was black.

A lump of Mithril Dite wearing an ominous blood lust and brilliance.

From the head –– which imitated a dragon's, two piercing eyes shining red peeped out.

"This is…––?"

To that uncommon power and presence, Velvet in the sky raised his voice.

"Connect On"

The Machine Dragon which appeared before Nhazul transformed into countless pieces of armor and wrapped his whole body.

"Don't tell me…you are––?"

Lisha who saw this stared wide-eyed and muttered.

Soon after, in front of the 100 Machine Dragons of the Rebel army approaching before him, Lux who wore the jet-black giant dragon Bahamut blocked their way.

In his hand, a large sword of a black deeper than darkness was held.

"I don't know who you are, but it doesn't matter! I will get rid of both of you!"

In accordance with Velvet's voice, the first three machines brandished their blades and charged.

They intended to load energy from the Force Core into them and cut down the whole barrier.

The simultaneous attack of the three machines from three directions, the right, the left and the front attacked Nhazul.

At that moment––

[BOOST!]The red gauntlet made a sound after Nhazul's words, the silver haired teen feeling the power going through his body.

*bakin*

"––Eh?"

[BOOST!] His power doubled again, Nhazul reminded back to when he'd first tried to see his limit which had been about only two or three minutes

The moment when the three Drag-Knight were about to swing down their swords, the Drag-Rides which the men were wearing burst into pieces.

The armor arm holding the Machine Dragon blade, the Force Core in both shoulders and the Sword Device hanging on the waist.

The three points which were vital points of attack, power, and control were pulverized in an instant.

And at the same time –– the three machines which came attacking all at once at that.

The jewel in the gauntlet made a sound [Burst] afterwards and then his body had felt heavier and it felt like all his senses froze which had made him realise that even if the Boosted Gear had no limits, the user, himself does have limits which meant he had to watch out for his own limit. It made the 20th power up.

"Let's go Boosted Gear" Nhazul spoke, the jewel glowing as it spoke

[Explosion!]

"What…!?"

The eyes of the men who were defeated were not able to see anything.

What on earth happened?

At a speed which the eyes could not catch, Bahamut swung its blade, and the moment when the swords crossed, the fight was decided.

––Why!?

"Devour time and accelerate, Bahamut."

Before they could understand the situation, Nhazul's large sword flashed once more with the power of boosted gear on it and knocked down the three machines before him.

"Guaaaaaaaaaah…!?"

The three Wyverns of the Old Empire that were already destroyed instantly lost their power and propulsion output, and fell headlong.

Although barely picked up by their friends' Machine Dragons which were on the ground, they were no longer able to fight.

"You bastaaard!"

After a pause of several seconds, five Drag-Knights of the Old Empire army once again attacked Nhazul simultaneously.

Nhazul understood that that was when it would allow him to fight at a certain level for a certain time which was affected by movement, attacking and stamina. Boosting seemed to be unstable compared to when he stopped at a certain level to fight, making him think that if he moved around too much there would be risks that that Boosted Gear would change him back to his normal level.

" Reload on Fire "

But, their attacks from the top, bottom, right, left and the front were fruitless and once again all five machines were simultaneously shot down.

"Kuh…!?"

"What does that mean––!?"

"What is happening, what the hell––"

"I-Is that a Divine Drag-Ride…!? Why does it easily, like that…!"

A great number attacked all at once, and faster than anyone of them could swing his sword –– or could pull the trigger of his gun, they were knocked down in an instant.

Just like a cheap-looking drama-like spectacle.

The rebel army stirred to the nightmare-like reality.

『D-Don't panic! That guy is just a Drag-Knight like us!』

Velvet raised his voice and rebuked his subordinates.

『There is no way that that guy –– a man has enough aptitude to use a Divine Drag-Ride for a long period of time! Besides, his movements will surely become dull soon after his attack! Aim for that chance!』

"Haah!"

The Drag-Knights who received instructions from their commander surrounded Lux and attacked him once again.

Certainly, Nhazul loosened his movements for a few seconds as he got tired from the processing of Bahamut.

"Guaaaaaaaaah!"

But, the next moment when his movements became slow and it looked like he showed an opening.

He pulverized the seven Machine Dragons of the Old Empire that entered his range in an instant.

"…Impossible!"

Once again, unrest ran among the Old Empire's Drag-Knights.

"A jet-black Divine Drag-Ride… You bastard…! Don't tell me –– your the one at the time of the coup d'état…!?"

When Velvet muttered, Nhazul looked up to the sky as if responding to it.

In the bottom of his eyes which closed just for an instant, Nhazul recalled the past.

『Do you want to cooperate with a wyvern along with my Bahamut? Or––』

What Fugil asked Nhazul before the execution of the coup d'état.

『Are you going to use Bahamut––?』

"Haa… So, you've done it. Nii-kun…"

On the other hand, Leeanna who asked Nokuto,who came back to the Fort City, went out of the rampart together with her, and was gazing at the battlefield as she deeply sighed.

At a site separated from the rampart and about several hundreds miles away from the wasteland of the battlefield.

Leeanna was carried by Nokuto's Drake to a distance where the dragon voice barely reached the battlefield.

She had to record the information about how long Nhazul could use a certain Machine Dragon.

In order to closely grasp the Machine Dragon's output and operation limit, Airi asked for unreasonable things, like wanting to go nearby, and had Nokuto take her.

"What's happening? Nhazul-san is… That black Divine Drag-Ride––?"

The usually composed Nokuto asked as her voice quavered.

The fact that though also correct for Divine Drag-Rides, Nhazul whose aptitude for the Machine Dragon should originally be inferior as he is a man, was handling it more than enough.

And, the incomprehensible high-speed movement which instantly shot down the enemy army which charged.

"…Nokuto. Can you keep secret what I'm about to tell you now?"

Unlike her usual straight atmosphere, Leeanna whispered in a slightly casual air.

"Yes. I swear on the pride and the master of the household of attendants, the Leaflet House."

As Nokuto nodded, Nhazul suddenly began to talk after a deep breath.

"That is Nii-kun. The strongest Drag-Knight riding the Empire's strongest Machine Dragon Bahamut. In the coup d'état five years ago, the one who destroyed 1200 Machine Dragons of the Empire army all by himself –– the "Black Hero"."

"––!? What do you mean by that? Leeanna Ryuadia."

Nokuto opened her eyes wide and asked Leeanna.

"It was a Prince of the Empire –– that destroyed the Old Empire? Why…?"

"…Diiiiiiiiiiiiiieeeee!"

Soon after Nokuto's voice quavered.

Screams and explosions echoed again in the sky.

A jarring tone of flute could be heard immediately after.

Probably–– Velvet gave directives to the dozen of Gargoyles, which were left behind to invade the Capital, to charge.

But, even if he used the Abysses, the results was the same as a little while ago.

The sword which Nhazul swung at lightning speed destroyed the Gargoyles' bodies to pieces and shot them down,

In mid-air where numerous explosions occurred, the Drag-Knights of the Old Empire army charged furthermore.

"Reload on Fire –– That is Bahamut's Divine Raiment. Its ability is a 10-second magic called Compression Strengthening."

A Divine Raiment of seal and release.

Or, repression and liberation.

An ability which rapidly decreases the energy and phenomenon until a fraction of it remains in the former five seconds, and then explosively unleashes their power in the latter five seconds.

"It decelerates the flow of time in the target to some fraction in the first five seconds, and accelerates it several times with the same power of the boosted gear in the last five seconds. Thus, the moment when the enemy showed the preliminary movement of his attack, he easily overtakes it with an accelerated slash with the explosion power of the boosted gear and destroyed the enemy. It's Nii-san's technique called "quick shot"."

"Quick shot"

A special move which saw through the enemy's attack's preliminary movement, used the acceleration by Reload on Fire and using Explosion and instantly destroyed the enemy's Drag-Ride.

Therefore, the moment when they brandished their swords and put a finger on the gun's trigger in Nhazul's range, the fight was decided.

It was the reason why he was called the strongest Drag-Knight.

"T-Then if he's so strong, why is Nhazul the "Strongest Undefeated"––"

"Yes, there is a reason. It's quite difficult to do the "quick shot"."

Nhazul muttered while watching the fight between Nhazul and the Old Empire army.

"In order to certainly crush the opponent's Machine Dragon, you have to perfectly strike that opening. Therefore, training was necessary in order to perfectly see through the Drag-Knight's movements and the attack's preliminary movement. For example, such as keeping to defending oneself by doing nothing, but dodging the enemy's attacks without attacking him even once in a match––"

In other words, the weakest in order to become the strongest.

The mock battle where Nhazul fought using the Wyvern was no more than training in order to use Bahamut's Divine Raiment.

A technique which he acquired after about several hundred thousand battles since the Old Empire's era five years ago.

So as to move with the same sensation even with Bahamut, he had been adjusting by calculating the weight and air resistance and adding armor on the Wyvern.

Therefore––

30 machines, 40 machines, 50 machines…

At the moment when they were about to attack, the Machine Dragons of the Old Empire army were shot down.

The Old Empire's Drag-Knights army of approximately 100 machines, which existed as Velvet's unit had been reduced to less than half in no time.

"Impossible…"

Velvet, who was watching this muttered, dumbfounded.

It's strange.

No matter how much he could use a Divine Drag-Ride, if he used its special ability, the Divine Raiment, it should put a considerable burden.

There was no way that Nhazul,whose Machine Dragon aptitude should be lower than a woman's could continuously fight for so long.

『It's useless even if you try to gain time. Nii-kun's Machine Dragon aptitude's numerical value is much much higher than the basic aptitude value of us, women.』

Leeanna's composed voice reached even Velvet through the dragon voice of Nokuto's Drake.

No way––

In the reality where he could only think so while doubting,

"D-Don't kid with me! Are you telling me that this bastard is that "Black Hero"!?"

Even while being flustered, Velvet furthermore issued instructions to his Drag-Knight subordinates.

But, even their movements to strike at the opening of Bahamut's Divine Raiment, Reload on Fire were seen through and they were crushed in no time.

"Who are you?! Why do you bastard––!"

"––Don't you remember my face, Imperial Guards Knight Squadron Chief Velvet?"

"Wha…!?"

Just an instant.

To the words of Nhazul who turned a cold, fathomless gaze, Velvet gasped in surprise.

A brief silence was born, and at the same time, even the Empire army's Drag-Knights stopped their attacks.

"Fu, kukuku…! Hahaha!"

Seeing that, Velvet burst into laughter.

His gaze was turned to Nhazul's collar.

"Well well, isn't it the seventh Crown Prince? Although I did not know, please excuse my repeated rudeness."

"Please stop."

To Velvet carrying out an impolite greeting, Nhazul returned to his usual self and curtly replied.

"Please surrender at once. Fighting anymore than this is meaningless."

"Fu, hahaha…"

Holding his lips so as to bear it, Velvet laughed again.

"More importantly Your Highness. I would also like to say some words. For what reason–– why are you siding with the New Kingdom –– the Empire's enemy?"

"…"

"Why?! Nhazul Ryuadia! Why do you, a Prince and survivor of the imperial family, turn your sword to us?! Do you intend to become a hero by fighting for the people!? You are wrong! With such superficial feelings, be it the people or the country –– you will not move anything!"

"I'm not a hero."

Nhazul answered so with a dry smile.

And,

"Please listen, Lisha-sama."

Nhazul looked at Lisha lying on the ground and gently called out to her.

"For this country, for the people–– I couldn't do anything as a Prince. I lost my mother and biological father who is the emperor's younger brother ; I was afraid of losing another close person again."

While he muttered, the memory of five years ago floated in his mind.

"I was not able to become strong for justice. I tried to save all the people, but failed. So that it doesn't happen so this time, in order to carry out my mission, I concealed myself as the chore Prince."

––You know nothing about the world. You aren't in the caliber of kings. The Strongest but the softest.

"But –– as expected, I want to help. I thought that I want you, who are suitable as the New Kingdom's Princess, to recognize me. So…"

"Nhazul…"

Lisha's scarcely audible voice.

While hearing it, he turned his large sword towards Velvet and declared.

"I am not a hero. I'm the strongest Drag-Knight who destroyed the Empire."

Soon after Nhazul defiantly declared,

"…All right."

Velvet raised his sword and sent a signal to his subordinates.

"In that case, you should die! As a cornerstone of a new Empire, rot away under the justice of the Ryuadia Empire that I serve!"

All the dozens of Machine Dragons remaining simultaneously began an all-out attack.

"Reload on Fire"

In response to it, Bahamut's Divine Raiment activated.

It ate time –– and accelerated.

The special move –– "quick shot" which saw through all the attack's preliminary movements, and pulverized the enemy in an instant.

At the same time that several Machine Dragons' armors were smashed to pieces, Velvet attacked as he wove his way to the momentary opening.

"Nhazul!"

Nhazul heard Lisha's scream.

The subordinates whom Velvet instigated were decoys.

And, it was just after Bahamut's Divine Raiment, Reload on Fire already activated its effect.

Before the time accelerated once again, it must first decelerate.

Even so, if it was an ordinary opponent, it was timing which Nhazul could prevent with his reading (see through).

But–– the enemy was not a mere Drag-Knight.

"Apologize to His Majesty the Emperor in the other world! Traitor!"

Velvet let out a sharp, straight line slash.

A high speed flash by quick draw.

When the inescapable slash attacked Nhazul's Bahamut–– Velvet saw it.

The cut line which he should've traced with the point of his sword running on Nhazul's Machine Dragon.

And another cut line was running on his own armor arm wielding that blade.

"––Wha!?"

*crack*

"Whaaaaaa…!?"

The damage minced on his Machine Dragon was reflected in the pupils of Velvet, who opened his eyes wide in surprise.

Soon after, as if tracing the irreversible fact that "it was cut", the EX Wyvern broke into pieces.

The wrist armor, the Force Core and the Sword Device.

Nhazul's "quick shot" crushed all of them.

"W-Why…!? Your Divine Raiment… You shouldn't have been able to use it yet ! Why was my quick draw defeated––"

Reload on Fire.

A Special ability of compression strengthening by the Divine Raiment.

The Divine Raiment cannot be re-activated immediately after he decelerates the time in the first five seconds, and accelerates it in the last five seconds.

Even though Velvet should have cut him after seeing through it––

『You are quite a reckless person, too.』

Soon after, a dragon voice through Nokuto's Drake –– Leeanna's voice reached Velvet.

『Just because you can use the quick draw, there is no way you can win with the same technique against the one who invented it, right?』

"Wha––!?"

To the indifferent voice, Velvet was at a loss for words.

The moment Velvet used the quick draw, the quick draw of Lux who saw through his preliminary movement overtook him with a Godspeed far exceeding it, and then did a "quick shot".

Be it the Divine Drag-Ride Bahamut's performance and output.

Or the skill and power of Nhazul' who became the Empire's strongest.

Or even the Divine Raiment of compression strengthening which could shoot down multiple Machine Dragons in an instant.

Nhazul's strategy to lure Velvet by making him think "I can beat him".

(This guy, really how many trump cards does he hide––!?)

In the midst, Velvet realized a certain fact.

"W-Wait! You invented it!? That can't be! You were still 11 in those days––"

"Good-bye, Velvet. Though I can't judge you as royalty anymore."

At the same time as Nhazul calmly muttered, the EX Wyvern was falling.

"I don't want to fight for the Empire as a Prince, nor for your sake. I want to fight for these girls, hoping to one day get their recognition––"

Velvet who was shot down fell to the dry earth.

All the Machine Dragons of the Old Empire's Drag-Knights were destroyed and the fight came to a close.

As Nhazul got down on the ground, Lisha who somehow managed to stand up stepped up while her legs were staggering.

And, she entrusted her small body to Nhazul wearing the Machine Dragon.

"––Thank you, Nhazul."

"…"

To the words of the Princess whose eyes were moist, Nhazul responded with a small smile.

Then suddenly, his body along with Bahamut slanted.

"H-Hey!? Are you all right? Nhazul!"

"Ahaha. It's been a long time; I got just a little tired."

He cancelled Bahamut's connection and replied so.

His consciousness became gradually blurred.

While faintly hearing the shouts of joy of the "Knight Squadron" audible from far away, Nhazul quietly closed his eyes.

"N, Ngh…"

With a small groan, Lux opened his eyelids.

He first saw a relatively new wooden ceiling, and the fragrance of flowers, medicinal herbs, and faint alcohol tickled his nose.

"…!? You woke up!? Thank god…! Nii-kun!"

The smile of the girl who embraced him was reflected in Lux's thinly opened eyes.

"This place––?"

As he somehow spoke while blushing, Leeanna hurriedly parted from Nhazul and after clearing her throat once, she quickly made a settled expression and straightened up her back.

"Um –– so, you finally woke up, Nii-kun?"

"Airi? Ugh…!"

Trying to get to his big sister's voice, Lux knitted his brows at the dull pain running throughout his body.

Airi dressed in her uniform who saw that, sighed once on the chair in front of the bed.

"You reap what you sow. After continuously using Bahamut's Divine Raiment that much, it's obvious, right? It's better than you sleeping for one week as in the old days though."

"…Perhaps, are you angry?"

As Nhazul laughed so awkwardly,

"Don't you understand if I don't say anything?"

She returned a grin.

Bahamut's Divine Raiment required a very intense consumption from the user.

Even for Nhazul, who had a Machine Dragon aptitude which far exceeded an ordinary woman's while being a man, it was a considerable burden.

Because of that, Nhazul who had almost died before made a promise to Leeanna not to use it directly until Bahamut's operation time limit including the Divine Raiment was accurately clarified.

It was also the reason why Leeanna, as a Teacher of civil official aspiration, was deciphering ancient documents of ruins involved with Machine Dragons.

And if by any chance, Nhazul's talents and the fact that he was the "Black Hero" and Welsh Dragon were known, Airi feared that he would be regarded as dangerous by various organizations including both inside and outside of the country, and would be targeted.

That's why she had tried to stop him.

Until Nhazul defeated "a certain man" whom he was chasing, in another sense, she had tried to stop his habit of exposing himself to danger––

He knew that Airi was worried about him.

So, when he tried to apologize,

"Nii-kun is–– a big idiot."

Airi said so and embraced Nhazul, burying her face in his chest.

"…Five years ago. When Nii-kun fell and did not wake up, do you know how much I was worried every day…?"

Leenna who had a usually settled attitude said as her voice got cloudy.

"Certainly, I'm a big idiot", Nhazul smiled wryly.

"I'm sorry for making you worried, Leeanna."

After patting his big sister's head for a while until she settled down,

"Speaking of which… is everyone safe?"

"…"

The moment when she heard Nhazul's words, Airi parted from Nhazul and turned scornful eyes towards him as she was amazed.

She seemed to be somehow dissatisfied.

"Ask that to them. I'm leaving already. Well then Nii-kun, take care of yourself."

"Yes, later then."

Leeanna stood up and quietly left the medical office.

She passed by three girls who entered the room.

"Hi, it's good to see that you look fine, Nhazul-kun."

"Oh! I'm glad you woke up! How is it, Nhazul-cchi? Do you remember me?"

"Yes. It seems that it's just fatigue, so I think it's all right."

They were Sharis, Tillfarr, and Nokuto of the Triad.

Each of them held fruits, flowers, and a silver work of charm, putting them on Nhazul's bedside.

"…Thank you"

To the fact that there were people who would do that much for him, he was unintentionally moved to tears.

"Fufu. You seemed to be so moved that you don't know what to say. But, you shouldn't mind it, Nhazul-kun."

"That's right. You know, Nhazul-cchi. When a young lady gives you a present, the way to return it is with a bigger one. Let's say that it's courtesy in the current New Kingdom."

"Yes. All of us expected it, so."

"….Ah, what to say, I will do my best."

To the three girls' smiles, Nhazul returned a complex smile.

"It will be bad to stay too long in a place of convalescence. We will excuse ourselves to leave early."

(In that case, I also wanted you not to put the pressure of presents on me…)

As he swallowed such words and saw off the Triad, two girls entered next.

"You seem to be more all right then I thought."

"Good morning, Nha-chan."

A slender girl with a cool impression, and a girl with a big chest giving off a fluffy feeling.

Krulcifer Einvolk and Philphie Aingram.

"Well, there are a lot of things which I want to thoroughly talk with you about, but––"

Krulcifer cast down her eyes and showed a thoughtful face for a short while.

Realizing that it was about the "Black Hero", Nhazul was startled.

"Still, you've quite a disadvantageous character."

Krulcifer said in a teasing tone.

"If you didn't request my cooperation, I wouldn't have known your secret. Why?"

He asked Krulcifer to protect Lisha and the "Knight Squadron".

In order to stop the enemy's attack in case he tried to aim not at Nhazul, but at Lisha and the "Knight Squadron" in the rear.

This time, Lux ended up defeating all the enemies as a result, but it seemed that Krulcifer had cleaned up afterwards in various ways, such as capturing those rebels whose Machine Dragons were destroyed after all was settled, and handing them over to the guards of the Fort City.

"It's because I thought that it was the only way."

Nhazul honestly answered back.

He would have done everything he could to save Lisha.

Therefore, so that he could fight without constraint, the cooperation of a talented person was indispensable.

"That's all good, but you should be careful. For some reason, you seem to be full of openings even though you are that strong."

"Eh––?"

Nhazul was shaken by Krulcifer's mischievous voice.

"I am not a cruel woman so as to continue this in front of a convalescent person. We will talk slowly and carefully sometime soon again."

"Ah, um, gently…"

As Nhazul somehow managed to return only that to Krulcifer whose smile contained an implication,

"…Philphie?"

"…"

Philphie silently approached Nhazul and clang her front on his.

"Uwah!?"

Approaching her lovely face at a distance enough to be able to kiss, Nhazul confusedly bent backward.

Even so, Philphie showed no signs of minding it in particular.

"Yes. You don't have a fever, so it's all right, I guess."

She muttered so as she nibbled a doughnut at hand.

"Welcome back, Nha-chan."

Philphie who seemed to be emotionless at first glance revealed a small smile.

"…Ah, yes. I'm back, Phi-chan."

As Nhazul who had become slightly embarrassed blushed, Philphie suddenly left his side and went out.

"Well then, see you later."

"Eh? Yes…"

"You've quite a pretty childhood friend."

"P-Please, don't tease me!"

Krulcifer also chuckled and left the medical home.

As Nhazul whose heart was still beating fast got up, several more classmates and "Knight Squadron" members visited the medical home.

"Ah, so you were safe! You've a strong bad luck, eh."

"It seems that you've protected Lizsharte-sama. You've my thanks."

"Next time, you should learn how to attack. Though you won't be as good as that, legendary –– "Black Hero"."

Hearing the talk of several female students, Nhazul guessed that his identity was not exposed.

Lisha of course, but also Krulcifer and Nokuto seemed to exercise tact.

"…Phew"

After all the visitors left, the woman who was the doctor of the medical office came by at last.

After first asking several questions to the awakened Nhazul, then taking a light examination,

"I have a message from Principal Relie. She wants you to come to the principal room after you settle down. That there's something important concerning your treatment––"

"…Understood."

Nhazul sighed once after leaving the medical room.

As expected, the important matter should have already been known by Principal Relie, too.

Now that the "Black Hero"'s identity, though to only several people, was exposed, Nhazul could not remain here.

Originally, the story that a person of the Empire took part in the coup d'état must not come to light.

If a member of the Old Empire's imperial family destroyed the Empire, it would be recognized by the citizens and feudal lords that it was not a revolution, but a fight for hegemony in the Empire or just an act, and the unifying force of the new Kingdom would weaken.

Therefore, even if the rumor that the "Black Hero" was there arose, it would be bad that Lux, the Prince who was that proof remained.

"Besides, it was a temporary enrollment to begin with…"

It was surely about that kind of talk.

(…It's finally a good bye, I guess.)

With a slightly deep emotion in his chest, Lux decided to head to a certain place.

he Drag-Ride's workshop smelled of metal and oil as usual.

Thinking about it, even though I came to the academy to do the work of a Dragon machine mechanic apprentice, I didn't do anything in the end, thought Lux with a wry smile.

Bahamut's storage location was not in the hangar of ordinary Machine Dragons.

It was quietly sleeping in a secret place called the top-secret hangar N° 0 which was in the basement of the Capital.

The Coup d'état's last day five years ago.

After having lost consciousness in the audience room, Nhazul was picked up by Lisha's aunt who later became the New Kingdom's Queen.

When he woke up, Fugil had suddenly disappeared, and his whereabouts were unknown.

Probably because of the collapse of the imperial castle, not only Bahamut was not taken to Nhazul, but he also miraculously regained consciousness.

The revolution succeeded, but Nhazul regarded Fugil, who intentionally led the Empire to collapse, as dangerous and afterwards he decided to chase him.

As the chore Prince of the New Kingdom.

And, in order to stack training so as to be able to freely use Bahamut whose burden was too big while wandering––

There was the danger of being assassinated as a Prince of the Old Empire, so he could not stay in the same place.

"But, I feel like I've been here for quite a long time…"

He was happy for attending the Drag-Knight Kuoh academy, and for also being able to meet friends of the same age for the first time ––or at least people whom he could call so.

It was a little regrettable that she did not come for a visit, but he wanted to greet the person to whom he was the most indebted to last, and thus came here.

"Hey! Isn't it Nhazul?! Is your injury already all right?"

As he was thinking about such a thing, a girl who was sitting before the work unit for Drag-Rides looked back at Nhazul with a smile.

A slightly dirty white gown put on top of her uniform.

Lisha's figure which did not seem Princess-like as usual was there.

It looked like she was still working hard in the research of the strongest Drag-Knight in this workshop.

Until very recently, I was thinking that she was acting like a Princess, but now –– I feel very relieved.

Nhazul also thought that it was sad after all that he could not see her anymore.

"Lizsharte-sama. Thank you for what you've done until now."

"Fufu. I'm moving for myself. So, there is no reason for you to thank me. More importantly, I want you to test something next time. I found an interesting equipment."

"Then, give me a request again then. I will come soon at anytime."

However –– I must already leave the academy though.

Thinking so, Nhazul was about to leave the workshop, but he suddenly remembered his purpose.

"Ah, speaking of which, it's about my Wyvern, but––"

It should have been greatly damaged by that fight, but he wondered how he would take it back.

Since Nhazul had only Bahamut's Sword Device at hand, the other one should probably be under repair, but––

"Ah, before that, look at this. Because you're a special person, you mustn't show it to other students, but –– you're the owner."

"Eh…?"

Suddenly, Lisha opened the garage storing Machine Dragons in the back of the room.

There––, there was a huge jet-black Machine Dragon.

It was Nhazul's Divine Drag-Ride Bahamut.

"Eeeeeeeeeeeeeeeh!? ––Why!?"

He unintentionally cried out.

"Now, I am repairing the very old scratches. Divine Drag-Ride repair is difficult, but I can't let anyone help me for only this much, either. After all–– it's an important secret in which only a restricted number of people know that this machine will be put in the academy."

"I'll go see the Principal a little!"

When Lisha was going to talk again, Nhazul had already started running.

Running up by skipping 2 steps at once while running up the stairs of the school building, he headed to the principal's room.

"What is the meaning of this, Relie-san!?"

*paff*

When he pushed the large door open with both his hands,

"Congratulations on your official admission! Nhazul-kun!"

With small cheers, thunderous applause arose.

In the wide principal room, other than Relie Aingram, girls whom Nhazul was familiar with.

Krulcifer, Philphie, Leeanna, and other classmates had gathered.

"Eh…?"

Nhazul who thought that there would surely be only the Principal, stiffened as he was taken by surprise.

And, a last person, a girl in uniform entered.

"Lizsharte, sama?"

"Ahem. Well then, instead of the Principal, allow me to carry out the greeting. Chore Prince Nhazul Ryuadia. I, the New Kingdom Princess, shall grant life to you, a criminal."

Lisha changed her way of speaking, said so and walked before Lux.

One Sword Device stored in a brand-new sheath in her hand.

"Thanks to your cooperation –– I was saved. You were able to protect not only this Fort City, but also our country. I admit that there is clear power and justice in yourself and extol you."

Declaring so, Lisha softly smiled.

"Therefore, here is an order from me. You stay here. As our chore Prince, as one of the Few male students, become our power. We shall admit you who should not originally be allowed here. There is no objection, Hero."

"Errr…"

A silence as if time stopped.

When Nhazul raised his face as he was embarrassed, Principal Relie smiled wryly.

"If you're like that, then you'll have trouble handling girls from now on, Nhazul-kun."

She just said that.

So, this is what she meant by "there's something important concerning your treatment".

"Therefore, how to put it. The sword of the Wyvern is still in the middle of repair, but–– Will you receive it? My sword."

While her cheeks were dyed red and she slightly averted her eyes, Lisha held out the sword.

The moment he saw it, Nhazul suddenly leaked a breath and kneeled down.

"As you command, my Princess"

Immediately after Nhazul received the sword, cheers arose from the surroundings.

Hung by Lisha's smile, Nhazul also smiled wryly.

Thus, Nhazul Ryuadia got a place where he belonged for the first time in the New Kingdom.

As the Prince of girls whom he should protect.

...

To Be Continued