Unmatched † Lovely Princess ~Maidenly Romance of Three Kingdoms~
Chapter 011: The White Cloths Ambush
Disclaimer: I do not have any ownership over any version of the Romance of the Three Kingdoms, that includes the TV series of 2012 "Three Kingdoms", the Koei Game series "Dynasty Warriors", the visual novel, manga, and anime version of "Koihime Musou", etc. Please refrain from suing me~!
Also, I would like to point out that when I began writing this story, in the midst of writing the previous chapter I discover videos on Youtube about the second Koihime Musou game focusing on the Sho-Ku route. From there, I have also used some lines that, like mention before, were too hardcore and impossible to put into my own words or replace. If you are familiar with the game, then you shall see more lines like such or even some events like so.
So I like to repeat myself again: I am not plagiarizing! I am giving credit to those who gave me these resources to write this. So thank you, Akumu Ryuu from Youtube for taking the time out of your precious life to translate all those Japanese words that had taken you hours just to do! And if you are reading this, I would like to say your translations are superb~!
In the last chapter, Kazuto and the Yuu-Shu Army are force to investigate the extremely quiet city of Raku-You and to secure Ren's (Ryo-Fu) residence. On the other hand, Son-Saku and the Kou-Tou Army have agreed with Sou-Sou to secure the Palace of the Imperial Kan, which Taiki would like to comment as "a place that looks like he tried to cook in". Sou-Sou, along with Izumi and the Kyo-Shou Army's Elite Calvary, is now in pursuit of Chou-Jou with the prize being the Emperor if it were to be successful, with Izumi having an uneasy feeling.
But a shadow lurks among them as these three "Messengers from Heaven" will soon make an encounter none of them will forget anytime soon…
Kazuto's P.O.V.
Under Aisha's impressive command, our army broke through Raku-You city gate and pressed onward into the city. We kept our momentum and secured Ren's residence, stationing soldiers there to guard it.
"… …Now one of your conditions is met, right?" Touka-chan smiled brightly at Ren and Nenene.
Ren nodded vigorously, evidently happy.
"Mou~," Nenene pouted, "I did not really think you were going to do it…"
"Was I really that doubtful?" I asked.
"In this time chaos, it is hard for anyone to keep even the simplest of promise…"
"I see…"
"Especially an idiot the like you…"
"Hey… [Cut me some slacks], would you?"
"…? Cud-a mi so-mom s-lack-s? What is that supposed to mean?"
"…Uh~, basically I'm asking you to give me a break from calling me an idiot…"
"Oh~… … …No…"
I comically sulked at her answers, until Red Hound (whom we release early) gave a loud bark. Another series of bark answer its call as a smaller dog with a red cloth around its neck rush out towards Nenene, Ren, and Red Hound.
"… …Seki-Tou," Ren identified.
"Hey, Seki-Tou," Nenene chimed sweetly as Seki-Tou hopped up-an-down in front of them in excitement, "You miss us?"
"Woof!" Seki-Tou barked in acknowledgement as Red Hound nuzzled it gently with its snout.
… …It's kind of weird and bizarre at the same time seeing one of the most hyper-carnivore in history nuzzling a small dog as gentle as a mother would have done with her child.
"Oh~!" Touka-chan squeaked at the sight, "How precious~!"
"… …Where…everyone?" Ren asked Seki-Tou as she glanced around worryingly.
"Woof!" Seki-Tou barked in reply to Ren's question. Then, out of nowhere, kittens, birds, and dogs of all kind all kinds ran up to the Ren, Nenene, and Red Hound.
"… …Ren…glad…everyone…safe," Ren muttered kindly, full of compassion, in relief as she sat among her animal friends, caressing each one of them; the birds either flutter around her head or perched on her shoulders.
"…Yeah, everyone is accounted for," Nenene informed Ren with an ease smile as she too sat down with a kitten on her lap; the rest of the kittens were meowing as they tried to climb on all over Nenene, "Mou~, do not be so naughty~…"
Red Hound growled in affection as it lay down behind Ren and Nenene, allowing the smaller dogs and puppies to climb on top of it.
"Are they the friends you were talking about?" I wondered.
Ren nodded with a smile.
"Aw~~~!" Touka-chan squeaked again as she bent down and gently petted a kittens head, receiving an affectionate meow in return, "If only I can quickly draw out this wonderful scene~! Hah~!"
It was time like this I wish had my cell-phone with me at least, that way I could capture and keep this scene for Touka-chan.
"I see now, you requested not to destroy your residence because they are there, yes?"
Ren nodded to Touka-chan's question.
"I'm glad they're all safe," I told her.
"… …Thank to…My Lord…"
"…Uh, well," Nenene turned away a bit in embarrassment, "…Same here…"
"Me?" I blinked, "I don't think I did much…"
"…!? Mou~! Being modest when Nenene had actually took the liberty to thank you! You really are an Idiot…"
"…Sorry…"
"Quit apologizing!" …What does she from me then?
Ren shook her head, denying my earlier statement. "Ren… …keep promise…"
After saying that, she let go of the animals and stood up. Red Hound also stood up too…but it immediately began to growl threateningly.
"Wah!?" Touka-chan yelped at Red Hound's sudden change in attitude, "W-What is wrong, Red Hound!? Did I do something wrong!?"
"… …Chin-Kyuu," Ren called.
"Eh-Yes!?" Nenene exclaimed as she got up.
"… …Halberd!"
"Huh?" I sounded off in confusion.
"W-What is the matter Ryo-Fu-dono?" Nenene exclaimed seriously.
"Why would ask for that?" Touka-chan wondered.
"… …Enemies!" Ren simply informed.
"What!?" Nenene and Aisha (Who, along with Shuri and Rinrin, had stood a good distance away) exclaimed, "Where!?"
No sooner did Aisha and Nenene ask that, the soldiers who were guarding the gate started screaming.
"…!? What!?" I exclaimed in surprised from the scream.
"What is happening!?" Touka-chan called out in concern.
A soldier ran up to us when Touka-chan's words were heard. "We sheltered a coach with a girl who appears to be aristocrat, but a group of men in white clothing chased after and attacked us! Furthermore, a mysterious giant appeared and entered the fray. The area in the front of the gate is in chaos!"
"White clothes?" Shuri exclaimed as she turned to Nenene, "Are they-…?"
"Yeah!" Nenene exclaimed bitterly with a serious nod, "It has to be them!"
"But who is the giant?" Rinrin wondered.
"…Ugh, Nenene has no clue about THAT one…"
"We shall figure that out later!" Aisha declared, "Our priority is to protect the civilians!"
"Yeah," Rinrin nodded, "Got it!"
We passed through the gate to find our soldiers in a fierce battle against a mysterious army clad white.
"Rinrin, you secure the civilians!" Aisha dictated.
"Alright," Rinrin nodded and took her units to do so.
"Ren, Nenene, you two protect Our Lord, Our Lady, and Shuri!"
"… …Okay," Ren nodded, tightening her grip on her Halberd.
"Easily done!" Nenene smirked as she ready her Chained Sickle.
"I am counting on you two," Aisha nodded before turning to the troops, "The rest of you follow me! We shall wipe out those White Clothes!"
Aisha smartly took command of her units and brandishes her Green Dragon Crescent Blade as they commenced their attack on the white clothed army. However…
"W-What!? They are-!" Just as she began charging out, a group of white clothed men appeared out of nowhere and surrounded Aisha, stopping her, "…! Curse thou!"
WHOOSH! With a mighty swing, Aisha showed no mercy as she cut them down.
"I am Kan Unchou! If you do not wish to die, then turn back! If you are here to fight, then I will not hold back!"
"…Comrades!" one of them shouted, "Fear not death! Isolate Kan-U! Then we can kill Hongou, the root of all evil!"
"…! What!? Art thou after My Lord's life!?"
"Hongou is the evil that will destroy the world! It is duty of justice to destroy evil!"
"What evil!? My Lord is a Messenger from Heaven who, alongside My Lady the Descendant of Imperial Royalty, here to save our realm!"
"Thou art an ignorant fool! Thou hast already been entranced by his evil!"
"How dare thee! My Lord is anything but evil!"
"If thou deigns believe so, then so be it! But the commandment to hunt down his evil has already descended! Kan Unchou, curse thy powerlessness and behold how evil dies…!"
"…Wait, wait!" I exclaimed as I knocked out the twenty-sixth enemy up to this point, "What's going on!?"
"Yes!" Touka-chan added as she slashed what could be her fifty-eighth opponent already, "Why are they after Kazuto-kun!?"
"… …My Lord, My Lady," Ryo-Fu called…WHOOSH! SLASH! WHOOSH! SLASH! …as she slays my potential assassins, "Step back… …"
"Curse thou, taste my Sickle!" Nenene declared as she threw her Chained Sickle at a group…WHOOSH! SLASH! SLASH! SLASH! …They quickly joined the number of fallen corpses.
"…Ren, Nenene, Touka-chan," I panted, "Thanks…"
"You better thank me!" Nenene huffed as she twirled her Chained Sickle, ready to launch it at a moment's notice.
"… …There are more," Ren warned, "Be careful…"
"O-Okay," Touka-chan nodded.
One of the White Clothes suddenly raced toward towards me with a knife, screaming like a psychopath.
"… …Not happening," Ren quickly got in the way and…WHOOSH! SLASH! …took him out.
But in a last ditched enough, the person threw his knife at me with all of his might before succumbing to death. I was caught completely off-guard as the knife flew right towards me when…SMACK! …a feathery fan knocked it away.
"Thanks, Shuri," I thanked my savior how had seen the move coming.
"Y-You are welcome, My Lord," Shuri puffed tiredly, evidently not use to combat, "S-Still, who are they? Why are they only aiming for Our Lord? They are even ignoring My Lady to an extent…"
"I agree," Touka-chan nodded, "I am sure these must be the white people Nenene-chan and Ren-san was talking about, but…"
"… …They come…another!" Ren warned as Red Hound, who had practically torn apart fifteen already, growled fiercely at the oncoming White Clothes.
"Root of all evil!" one of the White Clothes shouted, "Taste my iron hammer of Justice!"
"… …Not today!" …WHOOSH! SLASH! … "… …Nor ever…"
"… …The root of all evil?" I muttered to myself disturbingly, "… …Do they mean me?"
"Impossible!" Touka-chan exclaimed in shock.
"My Lord cannot be evil!" Shuri added.
"But they-…" I managed before Shuri cut me off.
"Please do not let them confuse you! We have our way of looking at things, and the enemies have theirs, desu! Do not just believe anything without questioning, desu!"
"Shuri…"
"Shuri-chan is right!" Touka-chan added, "Think about everything we have done together! There was not a single moment in which you have not been the kindest among the situation! Remember and believe that it is that which prove you are not evil, Kazuto-kun!"
"Touka-chan…"
"Indeed!" Shuri nodded, "But right now, we have to overcome this crisis! Ren-san, Nenene-chan, we must insure Our Lord can escape! Help us!"
"Okay!" Ren and Nenene nodded and began to fight the oncoming White Clothes
"My Lord and Lady, we shall run and buy ourselves time. Meanwhile, we shall have Ren-san, Nenene-chan and Rinrin-chan gathers the soldiers then, counterattack…"
"… …Okay, I trust you with it, Shuri," I nodded.
"We are counting on you, Shuri-chan," Touka-chan added.
"Yes!" Shuri nodded, "Now let us go!"
With Shuri's words as our signal, we shook off the group of White Clothes and joined Rinrin. Then we gathered our soldiers and counterattacked.
"Get out of Rinrin's way!" Rinrin roared as she swung her Viper Spear with great force…WHOOSH! SLASH! …Ren, by Rinrin's side, also swung her Halberd in unison with Rinrin…WHOOSH! SLASH! …The White Clothes fell to their combine might as they finally manage to reach where Aisha and her units had been isolated. "Aisha!"
"Rinrin!" Aisha called, seeing us coming, "Thank you for the help!"
"Do not mention it! Hurry up and gather your men! We are going to counterattack!"
"But they just pop up one after another!"
"Then we shall just simply take them down one at a time!" Nenene declared, "At this point, that is all we can do!"
"I know that, Nenene-san, but…" Looks like even the confident Aisha is feeling overwhelmed.
I glared at the group of White Clothes. They were practically so dense in number there was hardly any room between them. They were all wearing white clothing of course, but when I looked closely, I found that they were all Taoist clothing, just like the Yellow Scarves' Sorcerer. The only difference, aside from the color, is the fact they had their face covered as well. I swear, had this been any other situation, I thought I was looking at the Ku Klux Klan.
Now, they are practically waiting to pounce on us. I had to come up with something soon; they are after me after all, so I got to think of some way to get me and my comrades out of here. But before I can even contemplate on it…
"HHHNNNNNNNNNNNNGH~!" I heard a roar from behind the White Clothes. It was otherworldly; it definitely didn't sound like it could have originated from this world, or any other worlds for that matter.
"W-What is that queer sound!?" I spoke everyone's mind.
"I…I have no idea!" Touka-chan managed, "I cannot think of any creature with such a sound…"
"Is it perhaps the enemy new weapon?" Shuri wondered.
"Are you JESTING Nenene?" Nenene screeched, "What madman would make a weapon sound like that!?"
"WAHTATATATATATATA~!" the queer noise erupted again; it was soon accompany by the sound of flesh smash flesh, the agonizing scream of people, the sound of something rushing through the air, and finally several White Clothes member landing on the ground, roofs, and walls around us with a sickening THUD, "HNNNNGH~!"
"… …W-What is going on?" Rinrin managed with sweat dropped, taken aback by the scene we're witnessing, "The White Clothes are flying through the air…"
"…You cannot just destroy my home~ and scamper off like that~!" the queer noise sounded again, this time in, what suppose, a language more understandable.
"GYAH! What is that noise!?"
"I-It is not a noise," Shuri exclaimed in horror, "it is a human voice, desu!"
"A-A voice?" Aisha gasped, "Are you telling me that is a human voice?"
"L-Look!" Nenene exclaimed, "There is a cloud of dust behind the enemy!"
"NNNNNAAAAAAAAH~!" The "human voice" roared. There was a huge shadow howling like a beast at the base of dust cloud, plucking up White Clothes and hurling them away.
"… …Is that a human?" I managed. We were all stupefied at the unbelievable scene.
"Ho~… …Hawa!? W-We cannot just stand here and watch this!" Shuri came back to her senses first, "Aisha-san, Rinrin-chan, this is our chance to counterattack!"
"Y-Yeah!" Aisha started weakly before finish strong, "All units, fall in! We are going to avenge all the punishment they gave us!"
"Yeah!" The soldiers called in approval.
"Follow me! All units, charge~!"
Taiki's P.O.V.
Sheren sure is daring. Without even getting permission from En-Shou, she had the army charge into the city and into the palace ground.
"Search every inch of the Holy House of the Imperial Kan!" Meirin ordered, "Leave no stone unturned!"
"Kan-Nei Units!" Shishun ordered, "Follow me! We shall secure the palace courtyard!"
"Kou-Gai Units!" Sai called, "We shall secured an escape route for our troops should we need one!"
"Riku-Son Units~!" Non called, "Let us join Kou-Gai Units as they secure the escape route~!"
"…No I can do that myself, Non. Go aid Kan-Nei Units…"
"…No," Shishun shook her head in disagreement, "The escape route is more important…"
"… …You know~," Non comically wept, "You two could just say that you do not want me instead of dodging the subject…"
The two grumbled, ashamedly, before Renfa stepped forward.
"Non," Renfa began, "Have your squad come with us then…"
"Okay~!" Non chimed, pleased at being needed.
"Alright everyone," Sheren smirked as she pointed her swords at the palace, "Let us storm the castle! Take out anyone you find suspicious!"
"Yeah," the army shouted as they follow their designated generals.
"… …Sigh~," Sheren sighed in disappointment not two minutes into the raid, "Even if I say, to the looks of this building, I highly doubt there will be anyone left to entertain us…"
"Sheren," Meirin sighed tiredly, "Our actual goal during this entire raid is so that we remain the strongest reliable force in the Coalition, remember?"
"I know that," Sheren sighed, "Still, it is boring nevertheless…"
"I am actually glad about that," Renfa voiced, "I am still worry about that prediction Kou-Ro made…"
"Oh, Renfa," Sheren chuckled, "You really do worry too much. There is no need to worry as long as Taiki is here…"
"…Assuming he is the one that Kan-Ro foretold," Meirin mumbled.
"…Well," I shrugged, "Whether or not I'm the Messenger from Heaven or not, I'll protect Sheren with all I got…"
"You had better!"
"Now, now, Meirin," Sheren cooed, "Do not break into another ridiculous lecture now…"
Meirin grumbled to herself as we enter deeper into the palace house. That was when the soldiers at our rear suddenly began screaming in agony.
"…! What!?"
"W-What is happening all of the sudden?" Renfa exclaimed.
"Well instead of waiting," I spoke as I sprinted towards our rear, "Let's go find out!"
"Ah-! Wait a moment, Taiki Sonoma!" Meirin called to halt me, but I ran ahead anyway.
"…HWEH~!" I found Non whimpering as she actively ran away from her pursuers, "S-Someone save me~!"
"Get a hold of yourself, Non!" I cried comically before swinging my baseball bat at the enemies…WHOOSH! BAM! …knocking them away.
"…T-Thank you very much, Taiki~," Non managed through her panting.
"No problem~! … … …But seriously, you need a way to defend yourself…"
Non grumbled with a pout.
"Anyway~," I turned back to the strange army that had appeared out of nowhere behind us. They were all wearing white clothes (no individuality whatsoever) and they had their face covered; they kind of remind me of that one racist b**t**d group that was set up years ago in America. The only difference is that the clothing was nearly the same as that Sorcerer in the Yellow Scarves, only white. "Who are these guys?"
"I have no idea," Non managed, "They just suddenly appear behind us out of thin air and started shouting 'Destroy the root of evil', or something like that…"
"Seriously~?" I comically frowned, "People with low fashion statements really have a lot of time on their hands…"
"Root of the evil!" One of those White Clothes exclaimed as he pointed his weapon in my direction, "Thou shall be vanquished here today!"
"Root of evil? Who is that?" I turn around, but I didn't see anyone who looks evil.
"It is thee!"
"… …I'm evil?"
"Yes you!"
"Look, I've been jumped a lot of times in the past by 'evil' people because I was 'goody-goody', but you are the first to say I'm the evil one…"
"Thou shall not entrance I like these weak minded soldiers!"
"Entrance? …I'm not THAT handsome!"
"Say no more! Die by my hammer of justice!"
He ran up to me and swung down his weapon, but I caught his hand before he could gain momentum and threw him aside.
"Well, whatever," I shrugged as I pulled out my hockey equipment, "the point is, you see me as an enemy, huh? That's just fine with me; I'll just take you all down like others before…"
With that I raced forward…
Izumi's P.O.V.
The sun was already beginning to set by the time Sou-Sou-sama's Army enter the mountain route, following the foot tracks of the Hei-Shuu Army's retreat. Steep cliff face array on one side of the path while the other is occupy by a river; though not a problem for the moment, the fact that the distance between them are steadily decreasing makes the situation ideal for ambush eventually.
"… …Sou-Sou-sama," I called to My Lord, "I advise taking extra care from now on…"
"Oh?" Sou-Sou-sama turned to me curiously, "And why is that?"
"We are traveling on mountain routes now, enemies can be hiding anywhere. We must be cautious of being ambush ourselves…"
"I highly doubt that," Jun-Iku-dono huffed, "Chou-Jou may be the type to do that sort of thing, but she has only about a few hundred Royal Guards with her. She would not even dare try to ambush us with such few numbers…"
"…I agree with Keifa on this one," Sou-Sou-sama nodded, "Chou-Jou is probably only going to rely on using the citizens of Raku-You as meat shields, nothing more. She would not be so willing to bring them along if that was not the case…"
"… …There is truth in that," I admitted.
"As I thought, now hurry everyone! We shall reach them soon…"
"… … …Hmm~," I hummed to myself in worry, which was caught by Ten-I-dono.
"What is the matter, Shiba-san?" Ten-I-dono asked out of curiosity.
"… …I believe Our Lord is being a bit reckless, though I cannot say that out loud as I am…"
"How so? Shiba-san, you yourself agreed that Chou-Jou would not set up an ambush for us and would rely only on the meat shield citizens for defenses…"
"Yes and, under normal circumstances, that would be the case but…"
"…? But…?"
"…But that would only be the case had it not been for those strange reports from Chou-Ryou-dono about the 'white people'…"
"Eh? You mean that mysterious army?"
"That is right… …Something about those people worries me. What it is I cannot say for sure and thus cannot address to Sou-Sou-sama…"
"Why not?"
"…Ten-I-dono, if were to tell you that you are going to die a virgin, would you believe me?"
"EH!? Uh…well…"
"I did not think so. Because I could not give you a reason why that is so. A groundless warning is a lost warning. Even mentioning it is just a waste of time…"
"But it upset you, no, Shiba-san? Is that not enough?"
"It would have been had I've been the only strategist here. But no doubt Jun-Iku-dono would dismiss my anxiousness…"
Ten-I-dono sweat dropped. "Yes~, that is highly possible…"
"… … … …Ten-I-dono…"
"Eh?"
"Do not leave Sou-Sou-sama's side even for a bit from now on, understand?"
"… …I can do that much, even if Shiba-san did not requested it…"
"Good…"
"…Sou-Sou-sama!" Jun-Iku suddenly called, "I see the fortress of Shi-Na up ahead! With guards! I believe we have finally caught up with Chou-Jou!"
"Excellent!" Sou-Sou-sama smirked, "All forces, form ranks and charge immediately! Such a puny castle stands no chance before us!"
"Yeah!" the army of horsemen charged upon forming the ranks.
The force in Shi-Na Castle try to hold us off with arrows, but only a few fell before some of our soldiers managed to scale the wall and reach the gate to open it for us. The raid of the castle lasted only for a few minutes.
… …That itself was odd. Even if we had outnumbered the forces of Chou-Jou three-to-one, they should have not allowed the gates to be taken in a matter of minutes. Unless there were an incredibly low amount of soldiers, say forty to fifty which is equivalent to a unit or two, that were charge to fortify the castle. Even Chou-Jou would not make that kind of move unless she is seeking a death wish or…
"Sou-Sou-sama!" I called, "Chou-Jou must have fled already and this castle is only to buy time!"
"What!?" Sou-Sou-sama exclaimed.
"We could not have taken the fortress down so easily any other way…"
"That is ridiculous!" Jun-Iku-dono exclaimed, "Chou-Jou could not possibly have foreseen us arriving this early…"
"…We shall soon find out!" Sou-Sou-sama stated, "All force through the gates!"
Our forces raced through the gates once the enemy soldiers were eliminated. But, as I expected, we only arrive to find the fortress void of life.
"They really did flee already!" Ten-I-dono gasped.
"Damn it! Again!?" Jun-Iku-dono hissed.
"…It matters not!" Sou-Sou-sama hissed as well, "Keep on the pursuit! Chou-Jou could not have gone far!"
CHEER! The army race after us as we exited the fortress and charged forward on our horses. But the army had barely left the fortress for ten minutes when the sounds of gongs were heard above us.
"What-!?"
"…!? Karin-sama it is a trap!" Jun-Iku-dono exclaimed.
I felt the silent rumbling and knew immediately what was coming. "Avalanche!"
"Eh!?" Ten-I-dono managed as huge boulders came tumbling down the cliffs, crushing and killing some of our horses and horsemen.
"…! F-Fall back!" Sou-Sou-sama managed as she led our forces towards the river, the only safe route out of the rock falls.
… …Or is it!?
"Sou-Sou-sama!" I exclaimed, "Not towards the river-!"
"What!?" Jun-Iku-dono exclaimed, "Are you out of your mind!? Do you want to be crush!?"
"Of course not, but-!"
"But nothing!" Jun-Iku-dono turned back to Sou-Sou-sama, "Karin-sama, the route to the river is our only chance!"
"Yeah," Sou-Sou-sama nodded (to my displeasure), "All forces, into the river!"
I sighed grimly, but nevertheless followed a horse behind Our Lord. All the cavalries followed and we began to waddle our way slowly through the river current, even with our horse.
Then the worse scenario happen just as I thought it would have…
"…Now!" A voice rang out from the outcrops of trees besides the riverbed. A force clad in white rained arrows on us, taking several more horsemen and their horses.
"…!? H-How-?" Jun-Iku-dono managed as she used her Short Rod to knock away the arrows that had aimed for her and Sou-Sou-sama.
"…!? They anticipate our moves!?" Sou-Sou-sama exclaimed in shock.
"Destroy the Root of Evil!" The enemies cried, "Let the one we seek face the Iron Hammer of Justice~!"
With a roar, the mysterious White Clothes Army sailed forward like a flood and started hacking at the soldiers and horses.
"…! I-Is this the end-!?" Sou-Sou-sama managed in horror before I interrupted her.
"Jun-Iku-dono," I called, "Ten-I-dono! Lead Sou-Sou-sama to safety! Leave this battle to me!"
"Eh!?" Ten-I-dono exclaimed, "But-!"
"Do not forget your duty!" I reminded as I armed myself with my razor-tipped gloves, "GO~!"
"… …Very well," I managed to catch Sou-Sou-sama's mutter of regret, "I shall do as you say…"
I smiled as I leapt off my horse and into the midst of the White Clothes. As I did I caught sight of Jun-Iku-dono and Ten-I-dono leading Sou-Sou-sama away with a few dozen other horsemen.
SLASH! SLASH! SLASH! SLASH! I ripped through the White Clothes with my skill and speed. There were a good number them, the impending thought of death came to me. But I wasn't willing to go down so easily.
SLASH! SLASH! SLASH! SLASH! I kept on hacking away at them. When I was done with some, I immediately moved on to the next set of targets. My aim was simple: I no longer worry about numbers of the enemy or the soreness of my joints. I geared my mind and body to find and take out the next opponent.
SLASH! SLASH! SLASH! SLASH! It's strange. Maybe because of adrenaline rush, or maybe because I accepted my inevitable coming death… … …or even, I guess, because I've spent so much time with Sonoma-senpai and Hongou-san, but I found myself enjoying the fact that I was letting myself loose, without a care in the world.
SLASH! SLASH! SLASH! SLASH! I was no longer thinking or calculating. I moved, my body moved, based on my instinctive premonition. My lips, meanwhile, twisted slowly into a smile of an insane person. I don't know when, but I no longer thought about survive; it has now gear towards slaughtering as many as I can.
SLASH! SLASH! SKASH! SLASH! Finally, when I return to my senses, I found that I was the last one standing. My clothes were torn and dyed with blood, some still drips from my razor-tipped gloves. My arms riddled with broken arrows but I could not feel the pain they should be giving me. Scratches decorated my face, though they were small and would heal in time if it allowed so. The feelings in my leg were nearly non-present, but they were spare of any arrow wounds due to my robe, which, I suppose goes for the rest of me.
I was breathing heavily, but miraculous alive. No one else was alive as far as I could see or sense. But there was something else that had made it out alive. It was my horse, by some sheer luck it had avoided being slaughter by escaping onto the other side of the river bank.
I whistle it over and got onto its back. Fatigue was beginning to take hold of me, but I was, now that I am thinking straight, in enemy's territory. I cannot be allowed to rest yet. I instructed my horse to gallop on.
How long was I fighting? Which way should I go now? Did Sou-Sou-sama managed to escape? There were many questions racing through my head, but I could not answer them.
I continue to ride on until a voice echoed a bit to my left. "We have managed to arrest one of the leaders of the rebels!"
When I heard that, my heart nearly stopped as I immediately directed my horse towards the direction of the voice. I soon saw it: there were a few soldiers, fortunately not clad in white, preparing to pick up a small girl with curly blond hair in dark bluish purple clothing and silver armor. It was Sou-Sou-sama!
"Get your Filthy hands OFF of Sou-Sou-sama!" I roared as I approached, alerting them of my presence in the area.
"…!? What the-!?" several soldiers managed before…SLASH! SLASH! SLASH! SLASH! …I cut them down.
I did not slow down one bit as I had my horse race by Sou-Sou-sama and, in one movement, swept her up onto the horse. Then we bolted away as I could still hear the remaining soldiers screaming in scorn.
"Sou-Sou-sama!" I called to My Lord who was silent in my hands, "Open your eyes, Sou-Sou-sama! … …Karin-sama!"
That did it; at last with a slight moan, Sou-Sou-sama opened her eyes weakly. It was a start, but it proves she is alive.
"…S-Shiba-san…?" Sou-Sou-sama managed with a weak but grateful smile.
I sighed in semi-relief, fearing that if I did in full my body would loosen to fatigue. I checked Sou-Sou-sama's wounds: an arrow in her back and a stab wound to her abdomen. I was no master doctor, but I say had they been fatal Sou-Sou-sama would have been long dead. But I should seek for her treatment soon.
"…You are…alive…"
"So it would seem," I answered. I had to keep Sou-Sou-sama talking, or she may drift back towards the steps of death's door. "What happen to the others, Sou-Sou-sama?"
"…W-We…we were ambush even more… …Ruru-chan and Keifa stayed back to fend them off… …but my troops and I…were ambush soon afterwards again…"
"I see… …!? … …Oh no…"
"Eh?" Sou-Sou-sama turned to see what I have seen.
I had stopped my horse because before us was a large and violent river. No horse could possibly enter this river and get out…let alone two injured people. But as I was considering my options, noise from behind me alert us of the coming of the enemy.
"…A river…in the front," Sou-Sou-sama sighed in disbelief, "and the enemies…behind. It would seem…our fate has been…sealed, Shiba-san…"
"…Maybe," I noted before Sou-Sou-sama attempt to demount the horse rather recklessly, "…!? Sou-Sou-sama! What do you think you are doing?"
"Let me…down, Shiba Izumi!" Sou-Sou-sama struggled as I try to stop her, "I refuse…to let them capture…me! I shall take…my own life before-!"
"Why are you speaking so hopelessly for, Sou-Sou-sama!?" I roared, silencing Sou-Sou-sama, "The world needs a Heroine like Sou-Sou-sama now more than ever! We mustn't lose hope to the very end! Or what? Has Sou Moutoku decided to let Heaven dictate your life?"
"…No, of course not!"
"That is the Sou Moutoku I know and serve," I nodded as I gently got Sou-Sou-sama off the horse and towards the river, "Now, Sou-Sou-sama! Take off all your armors…"
"…Eh? What are you-?"
"Is it not obvious? We are crossing the river! It is our only option now," I explained as I helped stripe Sou-Sou-sama of her armor before looking down at myself, "…Mm! I cannot swim in this…!"
"Eh?" Sou-Sou-sama managed before I took off my torn robe and hat. I was left only with my underwear, my glasses, and my razor-tipped gloves, "… … …EHH~!? S-Shiba-san-!?"
"We can talk about shameless sex appeal in a decisive event later, Sou-Sou-sama," I rushed with a slight blush. I am still a girl after all, so striping myself this far is embarrassing. But I shook it off as I mounted Sou-Sou-sama onto my back, "Sou-Sou-sama is not dying today!"
With that resolve, I with Sou-Sou-sama on my back dived into the cold and violent moving water…SLPASH! …The wounds of mine stung as they touch the freezing water, especially the arrow wounds on my arms, but I ignore them. History did not dictate that the historical Sou-Sou ended his ambition here, so there is no way I am allowing Sou-Sou-sama to die here!
I swam and I swam, as if my life depended on it. Which it was, but the life of Sou-Sou-sama was also depending on me. I swam for a long time, going with the current to get even further away from our pursuer who must be think us insane for doing so. I swam, checking every now and then to make sure that Sou-Sou-sama was with me and alive. I swam for what seems like hours.
Fortunately, I had always been a good swimmer so even with Sou-Sou-sama as a little extra weight I could still manage even in water this badly unsuited for swimming. But it wasn't long before I felt, or rather lack feeling in, my arms slowly disobeying me. I was nearly at my limits and I've also lost a lot of blood during the entire ordeal. So I slowly began heading back to shore.
"Hang on, Sou-Sou-sama," I called weakly, "We shall be at shore soon…"
"… …Shiba-san," Sou-Sou-sama managed weakly as well, "Are you…alright? …You do not…sound so well…"
"… … …Just a tad tire, perhaps…"
At last I reach the swallow part of the river and began to waddle slowly inland. My feet barely reached dry land when…
"…!?" I had collapse to my knee and began to feel my entire body getting extremely heavy, "…No…Not…now~!"
"…! Shiba-san!?" Sou-Sou-sama exclaimed weakly, "Hey, g-get a grip…"
I grunted as I try to muster my energy to get back to my feet when I heard approaching footsteps.
"…!? W-Who is there!?" Sou-Sou-sama called.
By then, my vision has become foggy, so I could not make out figure that was approaching me… …Wait! That smell!
"Hey!" the figure spoke in worry voice; a man's voice, "Are you alright?"
"…Sir," I managed as I began to fade, "Are you… …a doctor!?"
"…! Y-Yes, I-!"
"Treat…the person… …on my… … …back… … … …first!" I managed those last few words before I succumb to unconsciousness.
Kazuto's P.O.V.
Although they were taken by surprise by the unexpected intruder, Aisha and Rinrin quickly recovered and launched a fierce attack which overturned the tide of the battle as they began destroying the White Clothes. Their pace was daring and harsh. It didn't take but a moment for the White Clothes to pile up on the ground.
"Somehow we managed to repel them," Aisha sighed, "But who were they…?"
"… …'Who were they' indeed," Shuri mutter in agreement, "They seem to be aiming for Our Lord alone…"
"I don't recall any reason my life should be in jeopardy…" I admitted.
"… …They all…with Chou-Jou…" Ren informed.
"The White Clothes, right?" Shuri checked, to which Ren nodded, "But… …Chou-Jou should not know about Our Lord…"
"But they came after Onii-chan," Rinrin frowned, "There must be a reason…"
"That's true. But I have no clue what that reason is though…" I sighed.
"… …Let us not think about that for a while," Shuri suggested.
"Yeah," Nenene nodded, "We need to concentrate on conquering Raku-You now…"
"You're right," I nodded.
"By the way," Touka-chan pondered, "…What was that thing behind the White Clothes anyway?"
"Tee-Heh~! That was me, dear~!" A rough voice with a girlish tone spoke up.
I turn to the source to see… "GAH-! I-It's a monster!?"
I couldn't help but scream that. What stands before us was a giant, no less. He was bald, save for the two pigtails that hang down from the side of his head. He had brown eyes and goatee, with his lips gloss in heavy makeup. Aside from the shoes on his feet and the thong covering his private area, the rest of his heavily muscular tanned body was left bare.
(Note from Normama: I literally REGRET having to describe him. I nearly threw up five times as I did…)
"A monster? How cruel!" The man frowned before looking at me with a sickening consideration, "… …But you are just such a cute man~! Since you're so cute, I shall make an exception just for you and forgive you~!"
"I do not think it is a matter of forgiveness… …but whatever," Aisha sweat dropped, somewhat disturb as was everyone else, "We thank you for your aid. But…who exactly are you?"
"I am Chou-Sen. I am just a frail~ dancer~!"
Rinrin sweat dropped. "Rinrin would like to know just what part of you is frail…"
"Oh? Really? Can you not see~? I am so frail and weak~…"
"No, no, calling you 'frail' would be an insult to the word 'frail'…" Nenene waved her hand rapidly in front of her face with a sweat dropped.
"…Hey, can you tell me your name again?" I asked. His introduction caught my attention…in a bad way.
"My name~!?" the man squeaked in a disturbing way, "Oh my, oh dear~! Do you have that much interest in me~!?"
"No, not really… …I'm just a bit shocked by the proper noun you just used… …"
"You found me so appealing you were left speechless, huh~? U-Heh-Heh, it is all right, I am interest in you too~!" He wiggled his hips with a blush and gave me a wink so strong I could've sworn I felt a breeze.
"… …Come on, what's your name?" I tried very hard at this point not to run with my tail between my legs.
"You just cannot wait~…My name Chou-Sen, the world's most beautiful~ woman~, who found her calling~ in dance and song~…"
A moment to allow me to vomit, do slapstick, cricket noise, and whatnot more. "C-Chou-Sen!? No way… …"
All my strength left me. I mean, come on! Chou-Sen was the tragic heroine who could easily be called one of the world's three most beautiful women.
"H-How did she… …become so manly… …?"
Suddenly, without warning, Chou-Sen's eyes glowed with anger and got into a stance that look like he was charging up some unseen energy. "GYAAAAAAAAAAH~!"
"HAYAH!?" I screamed in horror from his roar and from the quaking of the area all around me. The ground shook violently, cracks formed underneath his feet. The trees were bending away from him from the force of his roar. My comrades and I all found ourselves staggering and trying to remain on our feet; the girls had even drawn their weapons instinctively.
"Who is manly~!? Where is this manly person~!?"
"That'd be you-…"
"GYAAAAAAAAAAH~!" He roared again.
"HIYAH!?" I screamed again as the calamity took hold again.
"How mean! How cruel! … …How can you call a maiden in her first flush of youth manly!?"
At this point, I realize that I cannot live through something like THAT again so I quickly began thinking of a way to salvage the situation that has gotten off on the wrong side. "O-Oh, s-sorry…I just meant that as a figure of speech…"
"Then, does that mean… …I am not manly~?"
"… …Oh, no, of course not!"
"… …U-Heh! Okay~, then I forgive you~!" Chou-Sen finally smiled again, content, "You are totally my type too~!"
… … …This dangerous. This is FAR too dangerous… …This guy is absolutely homosexual. "Ha-ha-ha, good. Okay, then we shall be going-…"
"Wait a moment, My Lord," Aisha suddenly stopped me as I was about to leave (or rather flee) the area, "Maybe we should ask him about Raku-You…"
"A-Aisha… …" I plead with nearly watery eyes.
"…? We must gather some information, is that okay?"
"… … …Sigh~… …Sure. You are right, Aisha…" When Aisha gets like this, there's no way out of it.
"Okay, Chou-Sen, I have some things I want to ask you. We just arrived in Raku-You. Could you tell us what is going on here?"
"You want me to tell you about Raku-You?" Chou-Sen tilted his head, "Well, I guess I do not mind, but… …who are you all~?"
"We are with the Anti-Tou-Taku Coalition!" Rinrin answered.
"Well, Ren and Nenene just joined though," Nenene added.
"We came from Yuu-Shu to save the people of Raku-You from the tyranny of Tou-Taku…" Touka-chan confirmed our intent here.
"Tou-Taku? Tyranny?" Chou-Sen gave us a puzzled look, "What tyranny?"
"Tou-Taku manipulated the Emperor and applied political pressure on the people of Raku-You-…" Shuri began to list out, only to be interrupted by the puzzled Chou-Sen.
"Tou-Taku!? No, that did not happen…"
"What!?" Touka-chan gasped, "What do you mean by that, Chou-Sen-san?"
"What do you mean 'what I mean'? I mean exactly what I just said. The people of Raku-You did suffer from political pressure, but it was not under the orders of Tou-Taku~…"
"W-Wait a moment please!" Shuri exclaimed, "Are you sure about that?"
"Yes~. We were living peacefully under the rule of Tou-Taku… …until just a little while ago…"
"Do you mean you are not now?" I asked.
"Not really… …Some strange men with Chou-Jou force many people of Raku-You to follow her. My house was destroyed by the white people too~…"
"So the Tyranny of Tou-Taku really is a lie? But who would spread lies like that, distorting the truth that much, and for what purpose… …?" Shuri put her finger to her lips and began mumbling as she thought to herself.
"Shuri, what is it?" I wondered.
"… …My Lord, I have a bad premonition about this…"
"A bad premonition?" Aisha blinked not understanding.
"Yes. The reason why the Anti-Tou-Taku Coalition was put together was to free the people from the tyranny rein of Tou-Taku. But Chou-Sen-san says that the tyranny was done by Chou-Jou and the White Clothes. In other words, what we have been hearing outside of Raku-You City and what is really happening inside of Raku-You are completely different. Realistically, that is impossible…"
"They are completely opposite…" Rinrin frowned.
"Yes. If it was just a little difference then it would just be miscommunication. But in this case, they are polar opposites, desu. What is supposed to exist does not exist, and what should not exist exists. That is the kind of difference we are facing. Beside, hundreds of thousands of people are involved. Is that a realistic scenario?"
"If this was about a few, or even a couple dozen people, it would be possible," I scratched my head in worry, "But with hundreds of thousands? That's impossible…"
"That is right. But neither the people of the allied armies nor the people of Raku-You have noticed it…"
"Until we told you about it," Nenene added, "Now thinking about…I was surprise that people actually firmly believe Tou-Taku-san was the bad one…"
"Indeed…that can mean only one thing…"
"What would that be?" Aisha questioned.
"Someone intentionally manipulated the spread of information. Whoever it was, they were also able to manage the great task of evacuating the entire population of Raku-You, all while being very careful not to let any information leak. Who could it be? Who would gain from spreading information like that…?"
"… …Could it be the White Clothes?"
"Yes, desu! And their purpose is to kill Our Lord…"
"What does that mean?" Touka-chan wondered nervously.
"I believe this war was set up purely to take your life, My Lord…"
"Purely to take my life?" I frowned in concern, "But… …who would gain from that?"
"I am sure someone does," Chou-Sen spoke again, "Or perhaps something will [go back to how it was] by killing you… …"
"…! [Go back to how it was]!?"
"Hawa!? You just spoke in the strange language My Lord sometime speaks…"
"… …Did I~?"
"… … …Well, leaving that aside… [Go back to how it was]…" When I repeated Chou-Sen's words, something flashes in my head, "…So there's a force that wants to eliminate me from this world… …"
A force that knows that I came from the real world, and know that I don't belong in this world.
"… …It's that guy…" I remember the guy in Saint Francesca uniform, the same one I'm still wearing now.
"Does My Lord have an idea who it might be?" Aisha question when she notice the shock look on my face.
"Yeah, but… …I don't know if I'm right or not though…"
"Then maybe you should not worry about that right now~?" Chou-Sen suggested.
"Yeah, but… …" I nodded and looked at Chou-Sen. He was wiggling his huge body. "… …Do you know something?"
"What do you think I know?" Chou-Sen returned my gaze with a look of shock, but the only suspicious thing about him was his creepiness…and the fact that not a moment ago, he was speaking English.
"… …Well, I guess you're right. This isn't the time to be thinking about that, huh?"
"…You are being strange…"
"Not as strange as you are, that's for sure. By the way, Shuri…"
"Yes?" Shuri blinked.
"We'll worry about what the White Clothes are thinking, and why they want my life, later. I think we should concentrate on conquering Raku-You for now… …What do you think?"
"…Mm~. That is true. If we cannot come up with a conclusion, then we should worry about it later…"
"Nenene think we should do what we can do right now…" Nenene offered.
"Okay, then the rest is a job for Rinrin and myself…" Aisha huffed with a smile.
"Ah-! Do not forget Ren-dono!" Nenene reminded.
"Nyah-Ha, that is fine," Rinrin chimed, to which Nenene pouted, "Let us take care of it!"
Shuri giggled. "I knew you would Rinrin-chan! But before that, we need to gather some information, desu…"
"That is why we have Nenene and Ryo-Fu, no?" Aisha reminded.
"That would be the case if Chou-Jou had remained here. But the situation has changed…"
"That is true," Nenene pouted, "We need some more recent information…"
"We rescued a couple of civilians, right?" Touka-chan suddenly remembered, "Maybe we should ask them some questions…"
"That is a good idea, My Lady," Aisha smiled in approval, "The more we know the better we shall be able to handle unexpected circumstances. Rinrin, where are they?"
"Right now they are resting in a different spot," Rinrin informed before meowing in awe, "They are amazing though. One of the girls is just like a doll…"
"I see… …But the people of Raku-You had to leave with Chou-Jou because of the White Clothes, right?" I strain my expression in worry, "Why were they the only ones left behind? That bothers me…"
"My Lord is right," Shuri nodded, "… …We may need to interrogate them…"
"I agree," Touka-chan nodded, "Perhaps they know something…"
"Okay. We'll ask them some details," I turned to Rinrin, "Can you bring them here Rinrin?"
"Sure!" Rinrin nodded and left to fetch the civilians.
Taiki's P.O.V.
"…Curse it all," Meirin sighed in disappointment, "even though the enemy has fled, all we have gain is just an empty city and a burnt-down Imperial Palace…"
"The traitor, Chou-Jou," Sai muttered in anger, "has brought disorder to the court and disaster to the nation. The Four-Hundred-year-old House of the Imperial Kan, which Bundai-sama had served to her death in faith, was burnt to the ground in mere hours…"
"…Look at this," Sheren growled under her breath, "Those animals; we should not have let them leave so easily. I am glad Sou-Sou had decided to give chase…"
I solemnly stared around at my surrounding, taking in the scene. Just a few hours ago, I single-handedly beat the s**t out of those strange White Clothes. They had numbers on their side, but I was used to tackling those kinds that rely on numbers. Ask the gang in my old neighborhood; ask the Yellow Scarves. Either way, I did it without any help from the Kou-Tou Army. Meirin had suggested that they did something constructive while I took care of them, so they went on to secure the rest of the palace. When I was done, I joined up with them again in what I guess used to be a garden. It was burned down too so there really was nothing much to look at.
That was when my eyes caught sight of a well. At first, there wasn't anything noteworthy about it but as soon as the ray of sunlight penetrated the thick cloud of smoke above and hit the well, a golden glint illuminated from inside the well. It quick disappeared as soon as the clouds of smoke block the sunlight again, but the tiny glint lasted long enough to be spotted by me.
"…! Hmm?" I blinked and slowly made my way over to the well and peered inside, "… …This is…"
What I saw was a small bucket floating lightly inside the well. Inside the bucket was a small object that was obviously made of gold. It looked like a Chinese Dragon sitting erected on top of a pedestal. It was no bigger than my hand, evident when I picked it up to inspect it closely. Beneath the pedestal of the object, there were several words that I could not read.
"…What is this…?" I wondered. If it were any other object, I wouldn't pay too much attention to it. But I had enough knowledge to know that anything that was made with gold in this era had some sort of important mean to it. Curious about and its origin, I turn towards my comrades, who were still inspecting the area, and called out. "Hey, everyone~!"
"…? What is Taiki?" Renfa wondered as she and everyone else came over.
"I found this in that well over there. Anyone has the faintest idea about what it is?"
I held up the object so that everyone could see it. As soon as everyone could see the golden object, everyone gasped and jumped back in shock.
"…! OH!" Sai managed as she immediately closed in again and hesitantly took the object, "Is that what I think it is? Yes, it is! It the Imperial Seal of the ancient Imperial Family!"
Suddenly, everyone in the area divert their gaze at the object in Sai's hand as they began to gather around her.
"What did you just say?" Son-Saku exclaimed.
"Are you sure, Sai-dono," Meirin managed.
"Yes, I am sure of it," Sai nodded happily.
"…! The one and only Imperial Seal…?" Renfa managed as she cautiously took the Imperial Seal out of Sai's hand and began to observe it carefully, "Really?"
"…The Imperial Seal?" I noted in confusion.
"An almost legendary object of great power!" Sai explained with passion, "When I was a child, I heard my father say that there are eight words inscribed on the seal: 'By Heaven's Mandate: Long Life and Everlasting Prosperity'. They are the words inscribed here on its bottom. It is said the one holding the seal is destined one day be seated on the Imperial Throne…"
"This is incredible! It is as if the Heavens themselves have chosen you Sheren!" Meirin exclaimed as she snatched the Imperial Seal and stared dreamily at it, "I mean it must be! What are the odds of this happening!?"
Despite the excitement that everyone else seems to be displaying, Sheren remain silent, thinking deeply about something. Only Renfa and I noticed this though.
"…?" Renfa inquired, "Nee-sama?"
But before Renfa could inquire any further, Meirin suddenly went up to Sheren and presented the Imperial Seal to her.
"Sheren," Meirin began, "No, My Ladyship, today the heaven has bestowed the Imperial Seal onto you. It is proof that My Ladyship has an Imperial Destiny…"
"I agree~!" Non exclaimed excitedly, "Sheren-sama could easily become the next Emperor like this…"
"…Uh, no offense people," I began, catching everyone's attention, "but don't you all think this is silly?" Everyone traded confusing glances at each other as I continue. "That sounds more like an old wives' tale; superstition. You all can't possibly tell me you all really think the fate of a country depends on who finds a seal, right?"
"… …There is…truth in what Taiki stated," Renfa frowned.
"And yet, Taiki, Renfa-sama, allow me to point out something," Sai intervened, "Although it is superstition, people believe it really does possesses power…"
"Seriously…? It's no wonder why the dynasty is in such chaos…" I shook his head in disapproval.
"It may not be such superstition, General Taiki Sonoma," Meirin huffed out as she watched in glee as Sheren slowly took the Imperial Seal into her hand, "After all, it is Sheren's ambition to conquer the land. What are the odds of one such as Sheren finding the one object that people said to make that a possibility-?"
"No, Meirin," Sheren suddenly stated, "Imperial Destiny does not fall to me…"
"… …Huh?" Meirin exclaimed as did everyone else, "But the Imperial Seal-…"
"Was not found by me," Sheren huff a chuckle, before turning to me, "It was guided to and found by the Young Tiger of Kou-Tou, the Messenger from Heaven who housed the soul of the Moon-Healing Tiger Sovereign of the past. If we are going by the legend, Taiki is the one with Imperial Destiny, not I…"
"…! S-Sheren?"
"If anyone truly deserves to hold such a legendary object, it would be Taiki. I am unworthy; already my judgment upon seeing and holding the Imperial Seal are beginning to cloud up. I will no doubt abuse whatever power it may possess. Taiki on the other hand is not affected by any greed that the Imperial Seal will undoubtedly elicit. I truthfully am not confident in my own will against it; so Taiki, you take it…"
"Whoa, hold on there!" I raised my hands up, backing up a bit, "I never said I wanted it! I don't have a use for it either!"
"All the more reason why you should decide its fate, Taiki. No one else could decide properly how to use it…"
"But Sheren!" Meirin exclaimed, "If words spread among our troops that Taiki Sonoma is the one who obtain the Imperial Seal, their loyalty may divert to him instead!"
"If Heaven decrees it so, what right do I have to say otherwise?"
"…Well…"
"Taiki," Sheren turn back to Taiki, "You take it. You should decide what will be done to it. I have that much faith in you…"
I frowned before hesitantly taking the Imperial Seal. To me, it was just a lump of gold that everyone else would actually fight over for; that was something that I didn't like happening if I can avoid it. Besides, it was an object that has a bunch of nonsense on it. I frown and tighten my grip on it for a moment; if I choose to then I could simply crush the annoying thing, solving everything. That is, until I remembered one particular scenario in a "Three Kingdom" game I'd played in the past. Could the Kou-Tou force and I do the same here? It was definitely worth a shot, and it could get interesting that way. "…Hey, Sheren, while I don't believe in that nonsense, maybe we can keep it around…"
"…? Whatever do you mean?"
"Well~, I was just thinking. If even someone as ambitious and adamant as Sheren feel as if they could be corrupted by this Seal would not keeping it make those with true ill-intent show their true color too?"
"…! … … …Hmm~," Sheren hummed before her mouth slowly turned into a smirk, "Yes I see, it might be useful that way…"
"I'm sure that your mother would have thought of that too…"
"…? What are you talking about?" Renfa questioned.
"… …Oh~!" Non clapped her hands together, understanding, "I get it. We can use the Imperial Seal to attract despots that could further harm the Kan Dynasty!"
"Eh?" Shishun blinked, "Is that even possible?"
"…It is," Meirin nodded after thinking about it carefully, "If we are to follow Bundai-sama's wish and protect the Kan Dynasty, we must be able to dispose those who would harm them, like Chou-Jou. As long as we have the Imperial Seal, we need not find them, they will find us…"
"Indeed," Sheren nodded, "… …Now that I think about, I almost forgot my reason for being here. I am supposed to be supporting the Kan not seeking to take over…"
"Yes… …I too am a little ashamed by getting excited about it…"
"As am I," Sai sulked, "Bundai-dono, you must be scolding us for our foolishness at this moment…"
I laughed. "I'd bet she would…"
"…Nee-sama," Renfa suddenly spoke up, "Perhaps there is a greater more immediate use to the Imperial Seal than we thought…"
"…Oh?" Sheren blinked, "And what would that be?"
"We live in the region of Kou-Tou, but we do not have a solid control of the region, especially when Mother was no longer there. Ashe has been telling me about some of the more influential magistrate in some cities are beginning to show signs of seeking independences. Not to mention, the region of Kou-Tou is not complete, as even before our Mother's time other region that was Kou-Tou had already gain independence and became a region of their own. Can we not use the influence of the Seal to unit them again?"
"Oh~!" Sheren gasped as did everyone else, "I did not even think that far. I am impressed, Renfa…"
"Uh, no, I am pretty sure Nee-sama would have thought about it eventually so…"
"It is important for a leader to recognize and expand the benefits resulting of their advantages," Meirin smiled, "Renfa will be a formidable ruler one day…"
"Yes," Sheren chuckled, "Even I am feeling nervous about the idea…"
"You all jest too much," Renfa nervously retorted, "A-Anyway, about the Seal…"
"Ah, I'll hold onto it," I nodded as I pocket the trinket into my pack.
"What-!?" Meirin staggered a bit, "If you have no use for it, return it to us…"
"We're on the same team, so it wouldn't matter who has it right? Besides… …uh, do any of you have a 'pocket' to keep it in anyway~?" I asked with a sweat dropped as I glance at my comrades' clothing.
"…!? Well, excuse ME!"
We all laughed as Sai and Meirin blushed heavily as they grumble about the lack of functional pouch.
Izumi's P.O.V.
… …Darkness. That was the first thing I remember when my conscious return to me. I still had my eyes closed, so that is understandable. But in what condition was I was in? Have I become a captive? And what of Sou-Sou-sama? I knew nothing, and I would remain that way if I do not open my eyes already.
I open my eyes to see myself near a camp fire. It was heating a pot that was over it so it's obvious that it wasn't used to be a source of light. Tending to the fire was a man with fluffy red hair and serious green eyes. He has a somewhat strong built, not the point of being muscular since he was still rather skinny, and wore a white cloak with some furry white linings over black shirt and brown pants. He wore white detachable white sleeves connected to his black fingerless gloves, and white boots.
When he notices that I was awake he smiled at me. "Are you alright, Young Lady?"
"…I have been better," I answered as I sat myself upright. It was then that I realize that I was wearing a cloak as well, when I should have been nearly naked. "…This is…?"
"That was mine. You hardly had anything on so after I addressed your wounds, I put that on you…"
"…I see…"
"…Just to let you know, I did not do anything unsightly…"
"I believe you…otherwise I would not be alive right now…"
"I see…"
"… …! Where is the person that was-?"
"With you?" The man pointed to a person in a fetal position on the opposite side of the fire, "I treated her before I treated you as you requested. But you were in a much worse state then she was so when we almost lost you, she has been like that since. She is okay now though…"
"I see…I thank you," I thank the man before heading over to Sou-Sou-sama. She, like I, was covered in bandages over our wounds, though she has considerably less than I am. "…Sou-Sou-sama?"
"…! Shiba-san!" Sou-Sou-sama immediately jerked her head up when I whispered into her ear.
"Yes, I am alive, Sou-Sou-sama," I huffed before indicating my greatly damaged body, "though numerous times I should be otherwise…"
"I see," Sou-Sou-sama sighed in relief before turning to the man, "I thank you. Your words were true when you say you could still save her…"
"As long as you do not bring me a dead corpse, I can heal just about anything," the man stated, "but the credit is not my own. To be honest, I did expect her to be alive after I treated you. Her will to live is the greatest I have seen, with some of the worse wounds I have also seen…"
"…I see…"
"…So I was just lucky," I sighed as I sat myself down next to Sou-Sou-sama, "Did Hongou-san's 'dumb luck' infected me as well?"
"… …That would be mildly disgusting…"
"That it would be… …Anyway, I thank you once again doctor for healing us. I know this is rude of me to ask after you save us, but just who exactly are you?"
"Me?" The man smiled, "My name is Ka-Da Genka, at your service…"
"…! Ka-Da Genka?" I muttered to myself. Ka-Da Genka was a renowned physician of the late Eastern Kan Dynasty. He has been portray as a great doctor whose life was cut short because Sou-Sou had him executed for the crime of attempted assassination, from the idea that in order to remove the tumor that was causing Sou-Sou massive illness Ka-Da must open his head. Ironically, with the death of Ka-Da so was Sou-Sou only chance to survive.
"…I have heard of your name as well," Sou-Sou-sama awed, "You are a famous doctor from The Way of Five Grains, no?"
"That's wrong!" Ka-Da-dono suddenly exclaimed, "It is not 'The Way of the Five Grain' but 'THE WAY OF THE FIVE GRAINS'!"
Sou-Sou-sama and I sweat dropped. "…In what way have I said it wrong?"
"You must put enthusiasm into it as you say it! Just like there is a difference in saying [it is party time] in comparison to [IT IS PARTY TIME], see?"
"… …If you say so," Sou-Sou-sama sweat dropped.
I, on the other hand, am speechless. "… …Ka-Da-dono…"
"Hmm? Yes?" Ka-Da-dono blinked.
"That language you spoke…where did you get that knowledge?"
"… …I cannot tell you that, sorry…"
"…I see…"
"If I could I would have tell you, but I cannot. On that topic, Young Miss, I am sure you can answer my question: how did you know I was a doctor. You ask me that before you fell unconscious…"
"From the smell. My vision was blurry, but I still had my sense of smell. I detected the odor of herbs and alcohol on you. Herbs are obviously from the medicine a doctor formulates and alcohol is commonly used to sterilize medical utensils. Unless you are a drunkard with a serious taste for herbal plants, you can't be anything other than a doctor…"
"Ah~!" Ka-Da-dono nodded to my reasoning, "So that is how you knew…"
"Well," Sou-Sou-sama huffed as she got up, "That answer clears away my questions as well…We must be off now, Shiba-san…"
"Whoa, hold on there, where do you two think you are going?"
"…? I need to get back to Raku-I mean, I must regroup with my allies," Sou-Sou-sama saved herself from adding unnecessary information. Even if Ka-Da-dono was courteous enough to heal us, we still have no idea where his allegiance lies. This is the reason why I had addressed Sou-Sou-sama by name in a whisper earlier.
"…I am sorry, but you two will have to bear being under my care a bit while longer…"
"Huh~?"
"It is my principle as a doctor that I treat a patient to the very end. When I treat someone, the only time they leave my care is when they are fully healed or die. That is how I see it…"
"Ah~!" In other words, he takes his job as a doctor very seriously. Even Sou-Sou-sama became somewhat impress by that. "That is very honorable of you…"
"But foolish at the same time," I began. I decide to test Ka-Da-dono out and see whether or not he spoke the truth, "What if we are members of the force that seeks to capture Raku-You, for instances, and we receive these wounds for trying?"
"To a doctor a patient is a patient, there is no such thing as good or bad guys," Ka-Da-dono answered immediately, much to my surprise, "A doctor's job is, after all, to heal not to judge…"
"Even if you had joined a side, would you then still treat an enemy?"
"Of course!" Another immediate answer.
"… …Humph, you are a straightforward man…"
"Say what you wish," Ka-Da-dono grumbled as he tends to the fire, as if he heard that line dozens of times, "I shall stick to my belief even to death…"
"… … …Puh-Ha-Ha-Ha-Ha!" Sou-Sou-sama laughed, forgetting the situation we were in, "I like that! I, Sou Moutoku, respect that…"
"… … …Huh!? Sou Moutoku!? As in the Warlord of Kyo-Shou!?"
"That is right," Sou-Sou-sama beamed as she stood tall, "And this person with me is one of my strategists, Shiba Izumi. Are you surprise?"
"… …I see," Ka-Da-dono nodded to himself before turning to one of his belongings, "Now I understand why it has been resonating…"
"…I beg your pardon?" Sou-Sou-sama obviously was not expecting that kind of response.
Ka-Da-dono didn't speak a word as he went over to his belonging and grab what looks like a large object that was as long as Sou-Sou-sama was tall. He removed the cloth that wrapped around to reveal it to be a sword of shiny bronze-color with seven blue jewels embedded in the fuller part of the sword, arrange in a manner that looks similar to a Dipper. The sword possesses no cross-guard, with the blade making up Eighty percent of it. The blade was as wide as Sou-Sou-sama is.
"Sou-Sou-san!" Ka-Da-dono called as he present the sword to her, "Give it a try…but be careful…"
Sou-Sou-sama stared skeptically at the sword, no doubt thinking Ka-Da-dono has lost his mind. The sword was as tall and wide as she is after all, normally it would be impossible unless she possess immense strength. Even Ka-Da-dono seems to strain from just lifting the sword to her.
Nevertheless, Sou-Sou-sama took the sword by its grip. A look of shock decorated Sou-Sou-sama's face as she lift the sword up with surprising ease. After a second of pondering, she gave the sword a couple of good swings to test it out…ZOOM! ZOOM! …After a second of consideration, Sou-Sou-sama smile, impressed.
"It is surprisingly a light but great sword," Sou-Sou-sama complimented, "I can tell, this is no ordinary sword…"
"Indeed," Ka-Da-dono nodded, "You manage to lift it quite fine, Sou-Sou-san…"
"Yes… …I was not expecting that…"
"Then it is proof that you and Shi-Chi-Sei-Ken (Seven Star Sword) are destine together…"
"…!? Shi-Chi-Sei-Ken?" I muttered to myself. There has been mention of such a sword in the era of Three Kingdom. It was a sword used by Sou-Sou in an attempt to assassinate Tou-Taku.
"That is right. The Shi-Chi-Sei-Ken is one of the sharpest blades in swords history. It cuts anything that touches the sharp edge of its blade; one needs little strength while swinging it to do so even. However, not anyone can wield with ease. Those seven jewels embedded in it testify the will of the Heavens. Only one destine with it can wield and harness it sharpness fully. It is a sword that allows its true owner to defy and pierce whatever that stands in their way…is how the legend of this sword goes…"
"…Shi-Chi-Sei-Ken, huh?" Sou-Sou-sama examined it with awe, "…But, for me to wield means…"
"The sword belongs to you, Sou-Sou-san. You are its next true wielder…"
"… …And you are simply giving it to me?"
"Aside from my other task, it was my intent from the start…"
"…? Explain!"
"I travel this far east from THE WAY OF THE FIVE GRAIN in order to find someone who can wield this legendary sword in this time of great need. When I heard that the Warlord of Kyo-Shou managed to quell the Yellow Scarves Rebellion, I thought that you were a very likely candidate for it. Though, I never imagine that I would end up treating her without knowing it is her…"
"I see…"
"Anyway, may I ask what you are doing in such a state?"
"…Shiba-san…"
Nodding I answered in her place. "We were in pursuit of Chou-Jou of Raku-You who has fled from the Capital with the Emperor. However, we were ambush, and in the attempt to escape…"
"You came by the river," Ka-Da-dono offered, to which I nodded to, "Now I know why you were so desperate…"
"Yes, an unfortunate setback…"
"That means it is possible that Chou-Jou brought that with her as well…" I almost missed that mumble.
"Care to illuminate what you were speaking about?"
"…I can do that," Ka-Da-dono nodded, "Aside from delivering the Shi-Chi-Sei-Ken to Sou-Sou I am on a mission order by the elders of THE WAY OF FIVE GRAIN to seal the Crucial Key to the Way of Peace…"
"…? Crucial Key to the Way of Peace?" Sou-Sou-sama wondered.
"Yes, it is to the less knowledgeable folks a book of magic spells. But what set itself apart from other books is that it contains magical energy itself…"
"It contains…magic energy?"
"That is right, anyone can learn magic, you see, but there is still a certain degree of logic in them. In magic, even if a caster knows how to perform a spell, if they lack the required power, or magical energy, they cannot use it…"
"…? Huh?"
"…How should I put this," I mumbled to myself, thinking of the best way to explain to Sou-Sou-sama about a topic I understand but have hardly any experience in, "I suppose, Sou-Sou-sama, it is similar to how it is in martial art. Even if someone knows a form, if they lack the stamina or physical training for it, it's useless…"
"Ah~!"
"Yes. That is about right," Ka-Da-dono approved my explanation, "But the Crucial Keys contain its own energy. Therefore, anyone with the slightest talent for magic can use it to perform many spells. And fueling this magical energy are the land's oppressed people's cries of hatred. In short, the negative emotion of the people during times of turmoil and despair…"
I thought about what Ka-Da-dono stated before I widen my eyes in realization. "And you believe Chou-Jou has the book because she cause suffering to the mass on purpose, yes?"
"That is right. Under normal circumstances, the book can use the power it obtains from the suffering people to make life better. But in reverse, someone can purposely create suffering to have the book receive more power…"
"Understandable," Sou-Sou-sama nodded, "But why are you sent to deal with it? The Way…" Ka-Da-dono coughed a bit, causing Sou-Sou-sama to grumble with a sweat drop. "…ugh, THE WAY OF THE FIVE GRAINS is a Taoist prominent in the Kan-Chuu Region. Practitioners are known for aiding the poor and healing the sick. That is pretty much it; they hardly mingle with the affairs of the world outside their own…"
"You have a reason to wonder. The Crucial Key, you see, was once under our ownership, with the idea to use it when times are tough. However, like any available great power, there are some who has good intention and some with hidden ambition. About a year ago, the book was stole and a few members of our organization disappear along with it. We later learn about what was going on in Raku-You and also learn that one of our own has been sighted there. Fearing the worse, the order issued me to seal the book. It is a pity, but we cannot allow the book to use for evil purpose no matter how much good it can do…"
"I see. An honorable goal. But I can somewhat understand what this war is all about…"
"Anyhow, since it would seem you all need to return to your forces soon, I shall guide back to Raku-You then…"
"That is generous of you," I smiled.
"A doctor must take care of his-," Ka-Da-dono began before he suddenly stop and listen. I did so too and heard what he heard: the sound of horses galloping closer. "Someone is coming…"
I nodded and immediately helped Ka-Da-dono extinguish the camp fire. Once we rid the evidence as best we could, all three of us hid into the tall grass field nearby.
A cavalry of a few dozen horsemen soon came into sight. They didn't have flag banners, but Sou-Sou-sama and I did not need them to see two familiar faces leading them.
"Oh! It is Keifa and Ruru-chan!" Sou-Sou-sama identify with a hint of joy, "…Oi~! Keifa~! Ruru-chan~!"
Hearing Sou-Sou-sama's call, the two stop their horses and turn in joy to see Sou-Sou-sama stumbling out of the tall grass with Ka-Da-dono and I following.
"Karin-sama~!" Jun-Iku-dono practically leapt off her horse as she ran up to Sou-Sou-sama and embraced her in joy, "You are alright! I knew you would be! I just knew it!"
"Yes, yes," Sou-Sou-sama cooed Jun-Iku-dono who broke into tears, "I am alive…though somewhat still on the road to being well…"
"Karin-sama~!" Ten-I-dono cried as she got onto both knees and bowed so deeply she slammed her forehead into the ground, "I am SO~ sorry! Death cannot wash away my crime for abandoning you~!"
"W-Oi! Ruru-chan, do not do that!"
"B-But-!"
"Sou-Sou-sama understands your pain, Ten-I-dono," I spoke up, "But do not bloody your head. It just makes Sou-Sou-sama worry even more…"
"…!? Shiba Izumi!?" Jun-Iku-dono exclaimed in shock, "What are you-!?"
"…! SHIBA-SAN~!" Ten-I-dono exclaimed as she practically pounce me in tears, "You are alive as well~! Forgive me for not being able to protect Sou-Sou-sama like you instructed~!"
"Ah-! OI~~!" I hissed, since I was injured and Ten-I-dono's action were in direct contact with those injuries, "I'm injure; mind you Ten-I-dono!"
"Eh? …Wah~! I-I-I am so sorry~!"
"No, it's alright," I managed as I rubbed my injuries.
"But…how is it that Shiba-san is alive?"
"If she was not," Sou-Sou-sama huff a chuckle, "I would not be here right now, Ruru-chan…"
"Eh!?" Jun-Iku blinked as she finally notices Sou-Sou-sama's bandages, "Ah-! Karin-sama!"
"Yes, I was ambush a while after parting ways with you two. Shiba-san, despite being heavily injured already, risked her life to ensure mine to this point. I would have joined the dead otherwise…"
"Shiba Izumi did that!?"
"I am a vassal of Sou Moutoku after all," I simply reasoned as Jun-Iku-dono glared at me with an unsure expression, "Until her death, I shall remain loyal so…"
Later, Ka-Da-dono tended to the remaining soldiers that came with Jun-Iku-dono and Ten-I-dono. Sou-Sou-sama in the meantime gaze at the few dozen soldiers being treated, a look of regrets appearing on her face.
"… …Is this all the brave warriors that managed to survive?" Sou-Sou-sama muttered, "From my force of Seven Thousand horsemen…?"
"Unfortunately it is," Jun-Iku-dono sadly informed, still with tears of joy in her eyes, "But as long as Karin-sama is still alive, we still have hope of rising once more…"
"We shed our tears of joy for that very reason, Karin-sama," Ten-I-dono added.
Sou-Sou-sama thought about what Jun-Iku-dono and Ten-I-don stated before turning to me with a gentle smile.
"Shiba Izumi," she began, "This is three times I find myself in your debt…"
"…!? In her debt!?" Jun-Iku-dono exclaimed angrily only to be silenced by one glance from Sou-Sou-sama.
"Three times?" I questioned, a bit startled by the number, "Sou-Sou-sama, be it that I can claim one credit for saving Sou-Sou-sama, but about you being heal was Ka-Da-dono's doing. And even if Sou-Sou-sama still counts that, where would I find my third achievement?"
"…Yes, your first achievement was rescuing me from being capture. Your third achievement was placing me in the hands of Ka-Da. As for your second achievement, it was when I was about to take my own life, remember?"
"… …Ah~!"
"Instead of being capture, my resolve was to preserve my honor by taking my own life. But you stopped me and even lecture me to break that foolish resolve. And now I see the sowing of your effort…"
"Karin-sama," Ten-I-dono wondered in confusion.
"…I was…mistaken. How sad would my vassal be had I taken my own life back then when I lost all hope? I must never treat my life so lightly from now on," Sou-Sou-sama then gazed into the sky. "…Chou-Jou! …You have taught me a valuable lesson with your victory! I am not saying this to somehow excuse my loss. I truly have learned a lot from this defeat…"
"…A hero learns even in the midst of defeat, Sou-Sou-sama," I smiled, "I believe from now on, this battle would not mark in history as Sou-Sou-sama's greatest failure, but the moment when Sou-Sou-sama grew a hundred times the hero Sou-Sou-sama once was…"
Sou-Sou-sama chuckled at my worlds. "Well put, Shiba Izumi. I do feel a lot more worthy of being labeled a hero now more than ever. I have learned something else…"
"And that would be, Sou-Sou-sama?"
"…To never doubt you again, Shiba-san…"
"…? Karin-sama!?" Jun-Iku-dono exclaimed in astonishment.
"Shiba-san. From the very beginning, you have constantly made judgment in order to prevent all of this. Sadly, because of my own arrogances, I did not even pay heed to your words. Thus, I suffer this defeat and learn from it. I am sure that you shall continue to teach me more, with or without defeat. You even save my life while nearly costing your own. Your loyalty to me is pure, that is my conclusion. Therefore from now, you shall be my chief strategist…"
"…EH!?" Jun-Iku-dono and Ten-I-dono exclaimed together.
"…Chief?" I wondered, "Was not Jun-Iku-dono Sou-Sou-sama's primary strategist?"
"No," Sou-Sou-sama answered immediately, "I never designate her as one. That goes the same for Rin (Kaku-Ka) and Fuu (Tei-Iku) as well. I have only ever assigned one as chief strategist…and that is you Shiba-san…"
"…While I am honor, Sou-Sou-sama, is this not premature, achieving a new ranking despite the battle being lost?"
"You save the life of a Warlord, brought her under the care of a skillful doctor, help me reunite with my soldiers, and allow me to learn from all of this. I believe that is more than enough to earn you a high ranking… …would you not agree, Keifa? Ruru-chan?"
"Huh!? Uh, well," Jun-Iku-dono glared at me but nevertheless nodded to Sou-Sou-sama's question, "Yes, Karin-sama…"
"I wholeheartedly agree~!" Ten-I-dono nodded eagerly.
"… … …Very well," I sighed, "If Sou-Sou-sama wished it to be so, then I shall accept Sou-Sou-sama's most gracious offer…"
"Good," Sou-Sou-sama smirked before turning to an approaching Ka-Da-dono, "Well, Ka-Da? How are they?"
"They are all fine," Ka-Da-dono nodded in response, "They are a little fatigue, but with proper rest they shall return to full strength in time…"
"I thank you for that. Now there is something else I wish to discuss with you about…"
"…?"
"Ka-Da. The path I must follow is full of unexpected events, of which I am sure to be injured in. Your skills will be most need. Would you not care to join me?"
"…I appreciate your offer, Sou-Sou-san, but I must decline…"
"…?"
"I still have a task to fulfill. Until that task is done with, I cannot mingle with other sort of affair. Truthfully I would like to see the wielder of the Shi-Chi-Sei-Ken in action, but my duty to the order comes first…"
"…I see. That is regretful. However, my offer shall remain open to you. I owe you my life as well after all. If you ever need borrow my strength to fulfill your duty, do not hesitate to seek my aid…"
"Thank you for understanding. I shall be off then, but I am sure that the next time we meet you shall be an even greater person…"
"I shall not disappoint you. Farewell…"
Ka-Da-dono nodded before heading off.
"Karin-sama," Jun-Iku-dono called, "In all my imagination, I would not expect Karin-sama to recruit a man personally…"
"…I have change, Keifa," Sou-Sou-sama simply answered, "I am not as small as to not do so if necessary anymore…
Kazuto's P.O.V.
Rinrin soon came back, with a doll-like girl and a strong-willed girl with glasses coming into our meeting tent after her. Both of them were dead silent, the strong-willed girl with glasses kept on glaring at us, as if we wrong her somehow. The doll-like girl had an empty expression, as if she was caught doing something bad and was regretting it. Her expression did change for a bit when she laid her eyes on me, but it quickly vanished.
"Well," I began, "I'm Hongou Kazuto. Ryuu-Bi and I are part of the Anti-Tou-Taku Coalition…"
Touka-chan nodded. "We have some things we want to ask you two about Raku-You. Could you help us with that…?"
The two did not reply, like veteran victims of interrogation who [plead the 5th].
"…Uh…" I managed. It looks like they were being uncooperative. I was thinking of how to get them to open up, at least establishing a bond of some sort, when a change occurs unexpectedly.
"… …! …Yue!" Ren suddenly called to the doll-like girl.
"…! E-Ei-sensei!?" Nenene exclaimed as she identify the strong-willed girl with glasses.
"Eh?" Touka-chan blinked, "Yue and Ei!? Were those name not-?"
"… …! Could it be," Aisha exclaimed in surprise as she pointed to them, "These two are-!?"
"…T-Tou-Taku?" Shuri gasped at the doll-like girl before turning to the glasses girl, "and Ka-Ku!?"
"…! Ryo-Fu, Chin-Kyuu!" The now identify Ka-Ku exclaimed in alarmed when she saw Ren and Nenene, "What are you two doing here!?"
"…! E-Ei-sensei," Nenene began nervously, "This is-, well, what mean is-! Um-!"
"… …We…with My Lord…now…" Ren answered in Nenene's place
"Did you two betray us!?" Ka-Ku exclaimed.
"… …No…did not…"
"How can you say that!? What you two are doing is betrayal!"
"T-That is not it at all, Ei-sensei!" Nenene tried to recover the situation, "Please listen to what I have to say-!"
"Thou dare still call me 'Sensei' after this!? I am ashamed of thee!"
"E-Ei-sensei~…!"
"… …Do not…say that…" Ren sadly pleaded.
Touka-chan and I took a step forward to protect Ren and Nenene from her harsh accusation.
"Ka-Ku-san, do not blame," Touka-chan comforted the teary Nenene, "They did not sell you out! Really!"
"You expect me to believe-!?" Ka-Ku hissed.
"I'm surprised…" I interrupted, whether it was intentional or not even I didn't know. I reexamine the girl that is Tou-Taku, and the more I did the more I could not believe my eyes. Unlike her counterpart in history, who was known to be large and not exactly pleasant to look at, this Tou-Taku was a small girl with flawless white skin, nearly pale as a ghost, with gentle lilac eyes to match her gentle face and shiny silvery aqua-blue shoulder-long hair with a red threaded ribbon tied on her top hair to keep her bangs from covering her forehead.. She wore a blue-gold kimono with black sleeves over a dark red dress skirt that hides her feet, a maroon ribbon wrapped around her midsection, a black Jin-Xian Guanon top of her head with transparent silk that extend behind her down to near to the ground, and a fluffy cloth wore like a shawl. "I didn't expect Tou-Taku being such a cute girl…"
I could have sworn that when she heard that Tou-Taku blushed a bit.
"Who the hell are you!?" Ka-Ku suddenly stood between me and Tou-Taku, "I shall tell you right now, if you lay even a finger on Yue, I will kill you!"
"I have no intention of touching her…"
"Sure~ you do not," Nenene grumbled, "One does not need to have a brain to see that you were flirting with Tou-Taku-san…"
"… …I-I cannot deny that," Aisha sighed.
"… …I cannot either," Shuri sulked.
"… …E-Eh-Heh-Heh," Touka-chan nervously laughed, "Well…it is, um, one of Kazuto-kun's fine points…"
"… …Strange…" Ren finished off.
"…Thank you, everyone, for supporting me," I grumbled with sarcasm before turning back to Tou-Taku and Ka-Ku, "Anyway, I just want to ask you some questions…"
"Tou-Taku-chan, we now know that it is a lie that you were applying political pressure," Touka-chan began, "But… …Why did you not say it was a lie? If you had spoken up to say that the rumors, the information about Raku-You, was a lie, then this foolish battle would not have happened…"
Tou-Taku remained silent.
"Did you think you could win? Or was there some other reason?"
"… …It was," Finally, Tou-Taku spoke, it was in a sweet but sad tone, "… …entirely my fault… …"
"…Is that why you just let the Coalition armies attack without saying anything?" I wondered.
"No! It is not Yue's fault!" Ka-Ku roared, "Curse thou! How can thou talk that way without knowing anything!?"
"… …That's why I'm asking you two," I countered, "How did the curtain rise on this war, and what was the purpose behind it…?"
It seems like Ka-Ku understood now what I was doing; she suddenly began talking. "… …There was no real purpose for this war. The war was set up just to lure the 'Messengers from Heaven' to Raku-You…"
"…I see," So I really was the tar-wait! 'Messengers'! That means-! … …No, if it those two, they should be fine, I think. Still I better check them out later just in case.
"Yue and I got involved in this scheme and wound up being used to lure them. That is all…"
"A scheme?" Aisha wondered, "What do you mean?"
"First we were called here by Chou-Jou, and then the White Clothes threatened us, using the Emperors Dowager, who was a relative of Yue, as hostage…"
When Tou-Taku heard that, her depress frown grew even more.
"They lock Yue up, then with some kind of sorcery made it look as if she was a tyrant, letting those rumors to lure the rival armies, hoping that the Messengers from Heaven would join too. And we were…"
"Are you saying the White Clothes and Chou-Jou did all that?" Shuri questioned when Ka-Ku trailed off.
"That is right! It did not help when Chou-Jou used that to do actual tyranny. And somehow, even after Chou-Jou is revealed to be the culprit to the citizen of Raku-You, the rumors about Yue being the tyrant still persist. I figure the White Clothes were doing that too…"
"I see… …That is it…"
"Are the dots starting to connect?" I asked.
"I believe so. Manipulated information, an empty capital, and a mysterious group who wants to kill My Lord. What Ka-Ku-san says, fits with what we have seen here. It matches with our reasoning too. This war was set up purely to take your life, My Lord…"
"…!? What!?" Ka-Ku exclaimed pointing an accusing finger at me in shock, "Are you telling me THIS man is one of those Messengers from Heaven those White Clothes wants so badly!?"
"…? One of those…?"
"…Taiki is consider one," I informed, "the last one being Shiba-san. I think someone mentioned that back during the meeting. No one caught that…?"
"Eh!?" Touka-chan exclaimed in confusion, "Is that so?"
"Oh-! Does Onii-chan means the same two that help you beat Ren back at Kou-Ran Gate?" Rinrin exclaimed.
"The same ones you disappear off with during the banquet at Kou-Ran?" Aisha managed.
"The very two who made those interesting scenes back during the Coalition's last meeting?" Shuri gasped.
"Yeah, them," I nodded, "We were friends, you see, so we 'descended' from same place. I was going to tell you about this later…"
"I see," Touka-chan awed, "that would explain why you three could work together so well and why you seem friendly with each other…"
"…So those White Clothes got what they wanted," Nenene sighed, "They got all three of them to come…"
"But," Aisha frowned, "why do the White Clothes want to kill Our Lord and his friends?"
"Supposedly that's because I'm evil," I sighed, "I don't know about the other two, but I kind of understand that though…"
"What does Onii-chan mean?" Rinrin asked.
"As you all know now, along with the other two, I don't belong in this world…"
"You are a Messenger from Heaven, right?" Aisha affirmed.
"Taiki and Shiba-san as well, yes?" Touka-chan added.
"A Messenger of Heaven," I sighed at that phrase, "I guess that has something to do with why they're after my life. The other two as well I bet…"
"Eh!? They are also in danger!?"
"…That would make sense," Shuri muttered in concern, "All three are their goal if what My Lord stated about all three of them being called 'Messenger of Heaven' is true…"
"Then they could be in trouble right now!"
"I bet they are," I sighed before brightening, "But they're more capable than me so they can take care of themselves just fine. I believe in them that much…"
"…They do stand out more than Onii-chan," Rinrin smirked.
"… …Ren thinks…Taiki…strong…" Ren nodded.
"…And that slippery strategist has more brains than you too," Nenene sneered.
"Oh leave me alone," I frowned, "Anyhow, let's put that aside for now…"
"Yes," Touka-chan nodded, "We need to think about what to do with Tou-Taku-chan and Ka-Ku-san, as well as Raku-You…"
"…Well," Shuri frowned, "normally, we would take Tou-Taku-san to the Coalition Headquarters and she would be publicly executed since En-Shou-san still believe Tou-Taku is in cahoots with Chou-Jou no matter what we say…"
"…E-Executed!?"
"I shall never let you do that!" Ka-Ku declared.
"I know that," I told her, "And I don't plan to do so…"
"What do you mean, My Lord?" Aisha blinked at my statement.
"She was threatened and it was just a rumor, right? Chou-Jou was the only one that did anything significant. That means Tou-Taku-chan isn't guilty of anything…"
"You are right, My Lord… …but many lost their lives in the battle at Shi-Sui Pass and Kou-Ran Pass. Maybe Tou-Taku is not guilty personally, but I do not know if it is that easy to settle matters… …"
"Rinrin definitely do not think it will be," Rinrin agreed.
"… …That is true," Touka-chan sighed, "With Ren and Nenene, we can always say they deflect, but with Tou-Taku-chan and Ka-Ku-san…"
"Well, then," I huffed, "That means there's only one option for us to take…"
"One option?" Shuri and Nenene blinked in confusion.
"Yeah. We'll have Tou-Taku and Ka-Ku disappeared from history from this point on…"
"What!?" Ka-Ku exclaimed as she shielded Tou-Taku again, "Are you going to kill us!?"
"Hey, Idiot!" Nenene exclaimed as well, "What happen to all that talk about saving them!?"
"Don't worry you two," I laughed knowingly, "It's an expedient means…"
"HUH~!?" Both Nenene and Ka-Ku blinked in confusion, "What are you saying!?"
"…Oh~, I get it!" Touka-chan's smile blossomed in understanding, "We shall spread rumors that Tou-Taku-chan and Ka-Ku-san are dead, yes?"
"Exactly," I nodded.
"…I see," Shuri nodded in approval, "Aside from En-Shou, the rest of the Coalition do not know what Tou-Taku-san and Ka-Ku-san looks like. We found out that these two are Tou-Taku-san and Ka-Ku-san because of Ren-san and Nenene-chan. As long as En-Shou does not meet them, this plan is solid…"
"Exactly. Seeing her personality, I don't think En-Shou would even have taken notice of Ka-Ku to remember her, for one…"
"So we spread a rumor that the two of them are dead," Aisha hummed in thought, "to settle down the soldiers' hearts?"
"That's right…"
"But what are we going to do with them? I think it is too dangerous to let them go free…"
"…I think up to this point," Touka-chan began, "we just have to shelter them…"
"My thought exactly," I nodded and turn to Tou-Taku and Ka-Ku, "Sorry for the inconvenience, but we need you two to appear to be war prisoners. What do you think?"
Tou-Taku blinked at my question before slowly answering. "…Are you serious?"
"I'm genuinely serious…"
"That he is," Touka-chan nodded, "I can tell…"
"…What do gain by doing that, desu?" Tou-Taku muttered sadly, "I think it will more beneficial for you to get public attention first and then kill us… …"
"It is true that we can use public attention, but that is not our only goal for being here. We came here to help people who are suffering, and right now, Tou-Taku-chan and Ka-Ku-san are two such people. Besides, I never want to shed unnecessary blood if I can…"
"It's just as Touka-chan said," I helped, "Besides; there is benefit for keep you alive. We can get information about the White Clothes. And… …I can't kill a cute little girl like you. We've met and exchanged words…"
Tou-Taku blushed a bit. "Exchange…words…?"
"Yeah. Our eyes met, we exchanged words… …you're an acquaintance of mine now. I'm not heartless enough to say 'I'm finish with you' and toss you away…"
"…Just for that…You are going to shelter me?"
"That's one of the reasons, I guess. Also… …"
"… …?"
"…My life will be more fun with a cute girl like you around…"
"… …There is Our Lord's bad habit again," Aisha grumbled, glaring at me.
"Onii-chan has no fidelity," Rinrin sighed.
"How rude!" I comically exclaimed, "I do have fidelity in my own way!"
"Is My Lord's idea of fidelity what normal people would call fidelity?" Shuri frowned.
"… …Of course it is! I think," I flustered as I made excuses against their stunned verbal attacks.
"Well I think that is one of Kazuto-kun's fine point too," Touka-chan chimed, "Second only to his gentleness…"
Ah~! Touka-chan~! You're the only one on my side~!
"I would rank it third though," Nenene rolled her eyes, "his first 'fine point' is his 'Idiocy'…"
And Nenene shot me down…hard.
"… …What are you thinking anyway?" Ka-Ku had been silent for a while, but now she spoke up. She narrowed her eyes, trying to judge my true intentions.
"I just said it," I answered, "…I want to find out about the White Clothes for one thing. And for another, I can't kill a cute girl. Those are the two things I'm thinking…"
"And you are going to shelter us for those two reasons? Do expect us to believe that? Our existence may become your weak point one day. If the warlords find out you are sheltering us, the Anti-Tou-Taku Coalition will become the Anti-Hongou-Tou-Taku Coalition instead. Do you realize that?"
"She is absolutely right," Aisha nodded, "If the Coalition finds out we have Tou-Taku in our camp, they will turn against us immediately and try to kill us as criminals. We cannot kill them, but it is too risky for us to keep them in our camp…"
"B-But we cannot abandon them, can we?" Touka-chan intervened, "If we free them, can you imagine what will become of them?"
"The only armies in Raku-You right now are the Coalition's," Shuri answered after a moment of consideration.
"T-That means if we let Yue-san and Ei-sensei go," Nenene followed up, "they will surely be caught by one of the other armies…"
"If that happens," I frowned, "they won't survive. Therefore, we have to shelter them…"
Aisha thought about what was stated before sighing. "That is the best thing if their lives are the priority… …"
"Nothing's more important than human lives, Aisha…"
"I agree, but…"
"Aisha," Touka-chan chuckled, "It is best to give up. I am with Kazuto-kun on this one…"
"Yeah," Rinrin smirked, "When Onii-chan or Touka-nee-chan gets like this they would not change their minds. When they both gang up, they are definitely impossible to convince…"
Aisha grumbled a bit from that before smiling. "You are right. I just have to trust My Lord and Lady's judgment, I suppose…"
"Sorry Aisha," I bowed to Aisha before turning back to Tou-Taku and Ka-Ku, "So how about it? Do you two want to come to our camp?"
Tou-Taku blinked at me again before her downcast eyes return. "… …How can I accept your offer after what happened?"
"Yue…" Ka-Ku comfort Tou-Taku.
"People fought and died at Shi-Sui Pass…also at Kou-Ran Pass…I have to atone for those people myself… …"
"… …How do you propose to do that?" I asked. I couldn't stand seeing Tou-Taku immerse herself in remorse like this anymore, so I began doing what I do best (As Shiba-san say I do): a heart-to-heart talk.
Tou-Taku blinked at my question, not expecting that. "I do not know yet… …but people were sad because of me, because I was weak, so I have to atone for that sadness somehow… …"
"You can't die to compensate, okay? Like I said earlier, there's nothing more important than human lives," Tou-Taku listened to attentively. "If you really want to atone, you mustn't throw away your life. You must live and think about how you can atone…"
"But… …what can I do…?"
"Maybe you just have to keep thinking? Though, don't worry, I don't intend to make you do that by yourself…"
"…? What do you mean desu?"
"There is a good possibility that the battles of Shi-Sui Pass and Kou-Ran Pass only happened because I was supposed to come here," For the conversation sake, I didn't mention Shiba-san or Taiki. Though I'm pretty sure they would agree to what I would be saying next. "That means I cause them indirectly by coming to this world. That means you aren't the only one who's responsible. I am too. It's easy to use the word 'atone', but it's extremely difficult to actually execute it. But that's why I want to continue to atone by protecting the people who believe in me and who accepted me. And when I do that… …if you're with me, you'll give me courage…"
Tou-Taku blinked as she formed a slight blush. "Me…?"
"Hmm?"
"Can I atone… …by being with you?"
"Yes, you can. Let's continue to atone together…"
I offer my hand to her, a sign companionship. With some renew strength, Tou-Taku finally smile, nodded, and took my hand in her own and shook it gently.
"Yue," Ka-Ku managed watching the exchange with neutral expression, "Are you seriously going to let him shelter you?"
"Yes," Tou-Taku released her soft and gentle hands from me and turned to Ka-Ku with a gentle smile, "I think it was my destiny to meet him…"
Ka-Ku still looked skeptical, even when I raise my hand to her. But after another glance at Tou-Taku, she firmly took and shook my hand as well. "… …Okay. Hongou Kazuto, we ask that you shelter us…"
"Good," I nodded in approval before turning to Shuri, "Shuri!"
"Y-Yes?" Shuri stumbled a bit.
"How can best hide their existence?"
"Let me see," Shuri ran some calculation in her head, "How about if they become Our Lord and Lady's attendants?"
"Are you sure that would work?" Touka-chan questioned.
"As long as they do not go out to a battlefield, and as long as they have nothing to do with the government, they should be okay…"
"Okay," I nodded, agreeing with the logic, "Let's do that. Rinrin!"
"Nyah?" Rinrin meowed.
"Gather some soldiers and set up camp at Ren's house. No matter who comes by, don't let anyone in…"
"Are we going to hide Tou-Taku and Ka-Ku?"
"That's right," Touka-chan answered for with a relieve smile.
"What about controlling the palace of Raku-You?" Nenene wondered.
"We'll leave that to En-Shou," I answered that one, "If we move, someone might find out about Tou-Taku and Ka-Ku. Besides, I'm concerned about the White Clothes…"
"That is true," Shuri nodded to my reasoning, "They may attack us again… …Alright, we shall set up camp and stand by…"
"So we are going to forget about the achievement of controlling the palace of Raku-You and let the Coalition take credit for it?" Aisha frowned in disappointment, "I do not like that…"
"I understand," Shuri admitted but soon smile, "But Our Lord and Lady's name will be known all over the continent after this hard fight…"
"I hope so…"
"Do not worry," Touka-chan giggled confidently, "Everyone knows what a great job you all have done…"
I nodded alongside Touka-chan. Aisha was worry about things, as is her habit, so we tried to comfort her.
After I finished giving orders, I relaxed and heaved a sigh of relief. The long battle, the most significant battle of the End of the Kan Dynasty and the beginning of the Era of the Three Kingdoms, is finally over. The battle was rough and full of hardships, but I learned a lot about myself because of it, and I gained new friends while also reuniting with old ones.
But now, there's a new problem facing us. How should I live in this world from now on? I don't even know that. The Coalition successfully conquered Raku-You, with the Kou-Tou Army securing the Palace without us knowing. Raku-You was now under the control of the Anti-Tou-Taku Coalition.
This concludes yet another chapter in my Koihime Musou Fanfic.
Both Chou-Sen and Ka-Da makes an appearance. I didn't bother giving Chou-Sen a Common Name for various reasons.
Anyway, next time the Coalition comes to a close…but it's not going to end peacefully. Will Kazuto and his comrades be successful in faking Tou-Taku and Ka-Ku's death? How will Sou-Sou and Izumi react once they return to Raku-You? And will Taiki and the Kou-Tou Force be able to take the Imperial Seal back home with them? Tune in next time to find out~!
Mysterious Man: "I love it when that Izumi girl stripped like that~! I wanted to be that Doctor for that moment~!"
Normama: "Get out, Deadpool! I won't let you jack this story as you did with my Zettai Karen Children fanfic!"
Deadpool: "Make me~!"
Normama: "Chou-Sen! Sic him~~!"
Chou-Sen: "Yes sir~~~!"
Deadpool (Screaming and running away): "KYAAAAAAAAAHHHH~~~~! Boner deflat~~~!"