Well, well, well, if it isn't the consequences of my actions.
Due to various reasons, this chapter takes a long time to complete. And I am afraid the future chapters will suffer the same fate. Don't worry this story is still far from abandoned.
HehLikuHei: Thank you and I hope you enjoy this chapter too.
ex555: No matter where the world is, the kamiyan disease is always strong!
PlainSalt: Not too many, unfortunately, considering there are only a few antagonists in HI3.
Sekryuushintei: I think that because there are too many reliable ways and loops to affect the whole world in Toaru. Where in HI3 the only reliable method is via Imaginary Tree, which is whatever Otto doing right now.
PHAZE1NE: No, but if you're wondering how the other characters will react to Touma's death, I recommend "The Lost Light" by Tensouls.
GoldStar77: Fair point I guess.
PanickingNoob: You're actually right, but Sky People and Sugar are exceptions. The Sugar race lost their physical body, so they fall in the same case as Kazakiri. Sky People is a race powered by Honkai, which makes them similar to a golem.
Zatil Hidayah Spensa: In Touma's defense, someone with illusion does not count.
ElDragonZangetsu25: No, the only character from Index is Touma.
JD91B: Sorry about that, my English is not too good. I hope that does not bother you so much.
GG Vegito: Yeah I can see somehow that happen in LN.
5had0wHand: That was his name though Siegfried Kaslana. Sorry, but I can't understand Russia
zerofire210: I read somewhere that the Current Era Herrscher is not reaching its full potential. This makes me think if the full power Herrscher might equal to level 6. This is not considering that their power is so similar to esper.
Kurokawa Uzuna: They are from the official HI3 manga entitled Alien Space.
Mr. X: I gave Touma a lot of gifts in this fic. And one of them was that he could use his new body just like his old one.
Alex Crowley: I'm glad you like it. One of the main reasons I wrote this fic was that I wanted Touma to have a happy childhood in a loving family.
Serosen Seren: He will meet Bronya, the question is just when.
WSarcasm: Kamachi is still vague about the whole Imagine Breaker thing. And the fact that the Index series is still far from finished means there gonna a long time before that gonna happens. Not that I mind about that, because more volume means more Touma anyway.
ArcherShirou: Sirin herself had been through a lot, so I hope I can avoid that.
M2R: I mean, most of those tragedies and the struggle wouldn't have happened if Otto had respected Kallen's wishes a little bit.
Guest: Gone. Reduced to atoms. Just kidding, I hope you enjoy this chapter.
Achmaitilli: "Chapter updated if they are finished." Definitely not a certain eroge protagonist.
SkyChaser17: Yeah, I saw the recent leak and it was very good. Mihoyo is seriously doing a very good job making that chapter. I never thought I would be so happy seeing Otto win.
Note:
I stole this one from vilhelmine in Reddit, I hope they don't mind I use it:
"Hey. Thanks for all your comments. It is very flattering to know someone likes my story that much. I really appreciate all the comments, but the multiple demands for an update are having a negative effect on my motivation to write. I'd prefer if you commented about the story itself instead of asking for more, because begging for updates tends to make me write slower, not faster."
Trivia:
Shamash: The 7th Divine Key created by humanity in the previous era used the core of the Herrscher of Fire. It was considered the most destructive even among the other Divine Keys. To control terrible power of the core, it was split in half and housed in twin pistols. Combining the two transforms it into a greatsword that can unleash a storm of fire that brings destruction to all things, including the Divine Key wielder itself.
Draft:
After seeing the truth about Bianka in chapter 28, I can't say I was too surprised. I mean the hint is pretty obvious. The funny thing is my earlier draft would go that same route. But instead of getting amnesia, Bianka's memories were modified using Fenghuang Down. Later in the story, she would meet Touma in St. Freya. And by accident Imagine Breaker would dispel the effect of Fenghuang Down.
A certain spiky hair boy looked at his reflection in the mirror.
Kamijou Touma can't say he is fond of doing this action. It's not like he doesn't like his face or something like that. It's just because every time he sees his reflection. He always wonders if he truly 'Kamijou Touma' or not. You can say this is something that happened often since his first wake up after losing his memories.
What was his past like?
Who is his parent?
Why does he live with a nun?
There are also many other questions that appear in his mind from time to time. Sometimes those are just silly questions that he can ignore. But there is always one question that nagging in the back of his head that bothers him the most.
Who is Kamijou Touma?
Ever since his first wake up in the hospital room he always acts like he is "Kamijou Touma". He does this because he can't bear to see the sadness in the eye of a certain silver-haired girl. And from then on he kept telling this lie, lie again, and lie again and again. He lies and keeps the facade that he is Kamijou Touma. To his friend, to his family, and to everyone else he knew.
Of course, as time goes Kamijou slowly stopped minding those questions. He finally manages to stop it completely and accept himself as he is after coming back from England. Which unfortunately only a day before his demise.
If this was the first time happen he might go insane for questioning his identity. Fortunately, he already got an answer to that. He is Kamijou Touma. He is no one but Kamijou Touma. But just because he gets used to it doesn't mean it does not bother him.
As he sees the mirroring of 'Kamijou Touma' a furball suddenly appears over his left shoulder.
"Good morning Peppermint."
"Good morning Touma. What are you doing?"
"Looking at my reflection in the mirror."
"Really?"
"Yes, really, is something wrong?"
"I guess it's just my feeling, but you seem very fixated on your reflection."
"Thank you for your concern Peppermint, but I am fine."
"Well, if you say so."
Kamijou appreciated Peppermint's concern but it was unnecessary. The spiky-haired boy had dealt with this before, so he knew what to do. But even he himself starts to feel have enough of identity crisis in his life. This is like the fourth time he got an identity crisis and he prefers not to deal with this anymore.
"How was your escape today?"
"No one can contain me! Though unlike before it somehow became a lot easier."
"Easier?"
"Yeah, before it was really hard to sneak out. But lately, it feels so easy for me to do that."
There was a disappointed tone in his friend's voice. It seems Peppermint sees that as a game. The more challenging it the more satisfied to beat it. The other Sugars maybe start to realize that is useless to stop Peppermint and not worth the effort anymore. Kamijou feels bad for them to deal with his friend's behavior.
"Hey Touma, do you still have the cookies left?"
"Sorry about it, I already prepare the cookies, but Kiana somehow found and ate them."
"What?! How cruel?! How I can survive this world without your cookie!?"
"Please lower your voice, also isn't you too exaggerating? Arent, you already eat from your home?"
"Don't worry about it I can sense if there a people or not. And this case is different! Your food is very delicious that no other can not match it!"
"I appreciate your opinion on my skill. But I think that was a bit too high."
"I am serious Touma, you have amazing skills even though still a child."
"Thank you, but I don't think it's fair to compare my abilities with children."
"Huh? What do you mean?"
"I fifteen and will be sixteen this year."
"That still a child for me though."
"How old are you?"
"Around 100."
"Alright, I guess it's my fault for not taking that into consideration."
Sometimes Kamijou forgets that Peppermint is in fact an alien and does not know a lot about the human norm.
"For humans, it not normal for someone more than 10-year-old have a body like this. That doesn't mean they do not exist but they are more exceptions than rules. Like Theresa-san for example. "
"You not this exception?"
"Ignoring Imagine Breaker, I guess I was born with a normal body. My height and weight are pretty standard. But that was my body in the old world."
"Then what happens to your body now?"
"I also don't know. It's just like this when I wake up like this in this world."
Even until now he still doesn't know what happens to him. He is still not convinced of what Zeal told him about it. It seems everyone is way overestimating him. If someone wants to save a world there are a lot better people than him. And if Zeal really wants him to save this world then why does he give him a handicap. Obviously the main noticeable is his body.
Why did his body change to a child's?
The spiky-haired boy was really hoping this s just a side effect of being reincarnated. Because he fails to see any reason and benefit of being a child. Well, that is not entirely true either. He knew a few benefits of being a child. And it seems to retain all if not the most trait of his old body.
There is maybe a few demerits fighting in a smaller body. Though there is also a benefit of it. But if only that then it's not a big problem. Rather it came from something invisible that he needs time to realize it's gone. And this is also the thing that bothers him the most is.
Why is he have normal luck?
The misfortune he has been known with him since he woke up disappears. The very moment Kamijou realizes this he can't stop thinking about it. As long as he remembers Kamijou life is filled with misfortune. Losing it is like losing some part of his life.
It was because of his misfortune that he get into much trouble. But also because of that, he can save many people. As long as he has his misfortune trouble will eventually come to him. Kamijou Touma is also not blind that is his misfortune that keeps him alive. He realizes this after don't care how many wound he take he will not die. But it seems the misfortune has a limit of how many it can save him.
And right now he got to save the world without misfortune. Which means he will die like a normal person. And it is harder because he will not "coincidentally" get a problem. Which is a very bold assumption to think that Kamijou Touma needs a misfortune in the first place in order to get dragged into a problem that would decide the fate of many.
"Touma, someone is coming."
Peppermint then immediately hid. And not long after the door of his room opened.
"Touma!"
The voice belongs to no other than Kiana Kaslana. Kamijou notices the picture book the little girl hold.
"Yes, Kiana? What is it?"
"I draw this!"
The little girl approaches him and with a proud face shows one particular page of the picture book.
"What do you think? Do you like it?"
There was a split second where his expression changed upon realizing what the drawing was. Kiana's drawing is full of scribbles here and there. As expected of the child's drawing, but even then the spiky-haired boy could easily recognize what it was.
What Kiana drew was a picture consisting of five people.
In the center of the drawing is Kiana, with him and Siegfried on her right. And on Kiana's left is a drawing of Theresa and Cecilia.
"It's very good Kiana."
"Hm~hm~hm."
"I think you deserve a reward for drawing this."
"Reward?!"
"Yes, a reward. What do you want Kiana?"
Kiana thought about what reward she wanted to ask for. And Kamijou Touma would do his best to deliver that reward. At least this is what he can do. At first, Kamijou thought Kiana would ask him to cook some food. But it wasn't the reward Kiana asked for.
"A head pat."
"A head pat?"
"Hmm, I want Touma to head pat me."
From the look in her eyes, Kiana really asked that as a reward.
Then what right does he have to refuse?
The spiky-haired boy moved his right hand to pat the white-haired little girl's head. For Kiana, that simple act means more than eating her favorite food. Kamijou wondered if this was the relationship between him and his cousin when they were little look like. Kamijou stop what he doing upon hearing the sound of the camera. This makes both him and Kiana look in the direction of the sound. And the one who takes the picture is Cecilia.
"Cecilia-san."
"Mama."
"Sorry I can't resist it. I hope not to disturb you."
"Not at all Cecilia-san."
"Mama, Touma says my drawing is good!"
The little girl then ran towards her mother with a happy expression on her face.
"I agree with him Kiana, it looks amazing. I think it's a shame to let this masterpiece just lie around. Do you want to display it somewhere?"
"In here."
"In Touma's room?"
The little girl nod as confirmation.
"So Touma can always see it."
Cecilia was happy that Kiana accepted the boy's presence. Although her daughter took it a little too well. Since Touma lived with them, Kiana used her room less and less. They spend so much time together that they look like siblings. Not that she would complain about it.
Cecilia guesses it's because Kiana has never had friends the same age as her. And coupled with the good nature of Touma who acts like an older brother causes Kiana to like being with him.
"I see, is it fine Touma?"
"It's alright Cecilia-san, I don't mind it."
"We just need a frame to display it then. But before doing that, we are going to photoshoot first. Touma, do you need help to prepare too?"
"Don't worry about it Cecilia-san I can do it myself."
"Alright then, but if you are troubled no need to hesitate to tell me."
"Bye bye Touma!"
"Bye bye Kiana."
After saying that both Kiana and Cecilia left the room.
"What do you think Touma? I look amazing in my new outfit right?"
Siegfried is obviously preparing for this day. For this special day, he wears a gray shirt with a blue jacket and long brown jeans.
"It looks good on you Siegfried-san."
And what Kamijou Touma wears grayish pants and a casual white shirt with a black-colored jacket on top of it.
"Right? I know I'm still amazing in my regular clothes but with this outfit, it's increased by 2 times."
(This guy has too much confidence.)
(You're right, and I don't think that is a bad trait.)
It took some time for Kamijou and Peppermint to talk to each other with telepathy. Because of what the nature of Imagine Breaker is, it hard to find a way for telepathy without getting disrupted. Fortunately, they finally manage to figure out how to bypass it.
As Siegfried proudly put on his new uniform, there was a knock at the door.
"Hello Cecilia, it's me, Theresa."
It seems the awaited guests finally come. Obviously, Theresa is also invited to this special day.
"Let me Siegfried-san."
The spiky-haired boy walked from the living room to the front door to greet the nun. As he opens the door Kamijou's vision is welcomed by a girl who wears black color nun outfit. Similar to a certain pink-haired teacher in his world even if Theresa looks like a child she is actually an adult.
"Good morning Touma, can I ask where Cecilia is? I'm not late am I?"
"Good morning too Theresa-san. Don't worry you are not late, the photoshoot hasn't started yet. And Cecilia-san right now is prepared with Kiana."
"I'm very glad then. I am so afraid I will be late."
"I don't think you need to worry about that, Theresa-san. Even if you are late we will wait for you."
"Thanks for reassuring me, Touma. But that still makes me feel bad you knew."
"I guess you are right. Please come in Theresa-san"
Both Kamijou and Theresa then came to the inside house.
"Finally you come too, Theresa. If you search for Cecilia, she is still preparing with Kiana."
"I know, Touma just told me about that."
"Don't worry about it. I gonna told them for your arrival."
"Is that so?"
"Hmm? What is it, Theresa?"
"Say, Siegfried, are the reason is because of me? Or because you want the first to see your wife dress?"
There was a pause of a few seconds after Theresa said that and before Siegfried burst out laughing.
"Hahaha! You knew me so well Theresa."
The man went inside after confirming the accusations that Theresa had leveled at him.
"Seriously that guy."
Kamijou knew this is what friends usually do. Fight and bickering each other even the simplest thing. They also do stupid things together and have fun together. It seems he missed his friend more than he thought.
(Touma?)
(It's nothing, just remembering something from my world.)
People never truly realize the value of something except when they lose it. Kamijou Touma knew this and is not too diferent. That is why he always cherishes every moment of his life. Or maybe it is because he always cherishes every moment of his life it hurt him so much when he loses it.
"How about you, Touma? Are you used to living here?"
"Yes, Cecilia-san and Siegfried-san take care of me."
"How it like to live here? Are you happy? Or is there something that bothers you? If you have any of that you can always tell me. Don't worry Teriteri always gonna hear you out!"
"Thank you, Theresa-san. I will remember that."
She already knows that her best friend would become a great parent, the problem lies in Siegfried. Not to say he is a bad parent, per see. Well, maybe he is, at least compare to Cecilia. But overall, Theresa knows Siegfried is a good person. If he doesn't, she never gonna let him marry her best friend.
After all, she had been seen it with her own eye of how much Siegfried would go to see Cecilia. And her best friend's smile was so genuine when the two finally met. Even though Theresa hopes Cecilia finds someone who is appropriate with her. She finally ended that mindset, Theresa couldn't deny her best friend's happiness. If this is what Cecilia's choice is, she would support it wholeheartedly.
And it seems that was the right choice. Right now they are a happy family with a daughter and a son. If only that man could stop flirting with every woman he meets, it would be much much better.
"Theresa-san, can I ask something?"
"You can always ask anything to Teriteri, Touma."
There hesitant in the boy's face before asking the question.
"What is it like to be a Valkyrie?"
"What it like huh? That is a difficult question you have Touma. "
Even if she said like that her cheerful expression didn't match it at all. Theresa actually predict that the boy would be curious about that job. She has been carefully planning to answer that question.
"Work as Valkyrie is many things, Touma. There are hard parts, but there are also easy ones. If I have to select the word to describe my experience as Valkyrie, it was exhilarating. The feeling of meeting many wonderful people that I can talk to and befriend with them is incredible. And the fact it also let me save many people and protect them from the danger of Honkai my heart very happy."
Obviously, there is also a victim of civilian and Valkyrie alike but Theresa feels she no need to tell about that. If she can be honest, she doesn't want the boy to follow in their footstep because of the dangers that need to be faced. She also has the same opinion about Kiana, but she doubts her grandpa would let such potential go to waste.
Theresa knew her grandfather did a lot of shady things. She is not blind to what Otto Apocalypse doing as The Overseer of Schikscal. It is a public secret at Schikscal that Theresa was the result of one of the many experiments carried out by Otto.
But that was not only the side of The Overseer has. There is also a side of Otto Apocalypse not known to many people. And that is a gentle and kind side of her grandpa that she knew very well.
"I see, thank you for the answer my question."
"No problem! If you have another question you can ask it right away."
"No, that was the only question I have."
He could feel that Theresa means every word she said. Kamijou doubts if he truly needed on this world. As long people like Theresa exist in the world there is nothing to worry about. No matter what happens humanity will be alright.
"If you don't have anymore, then it's my turn to ask the question."
"What it is Theresa-san?"
"Can I know where your cooking skill came from, Touma? Did you meet Dream Elf and they teach you?"
"Dream Elf?"
"What? You also never heard of them?"
"Sorry, it's my first time hearing about them. Can you please explain to me what Dream Elf is?"
"Well, if you place ingredient and recipe on the table and sleep. A Dream Elf will come and cook it for you. And sometimes they would do the chore as well. Or at least that was the case for me."
Kamijou thinks Dream Elf was very convenient. From Theresa's explanation about them, Dream Elf suits their name very well. And no matter how he look about it, that was definitely very suspicious.
(You knew anything about this Peppermint?)
(No, I don't know anything about this. There is just one other Sugar that interacts with a human. But I can guarantee you, this girl is not the host.)
At first, Kamijou thought this would be kind of magick. But he knew it would be a bad idea to jump to conclusions right away.
"Just curious, but where did you hear it from?"
"My grandpa told me about them."
(Okay that finally makes a lot of sense.)
(I don't like that guy. Something about him is just... off.)
The spiky-haired boy was a little surprised that his little friend knew about the Overseer. That aside he understood what Peppermint was talking about.
"If Dream Elf didn't help you, then how are your cooking so good Touma?"
"There is no secret or anything like that about my cooking skill Theresa-san. My skill is come from learning it myself."
"You learn it yourself?! Touma are you perhaps… a genius?!"
(See! I told you! Your cooking is amazing!)
It seems everyone thinks highly of his cooking ability. It bit embarrassed him but this also made him feel proud of his skill.
"If only Siegfried can have just a little of your skill. Maybe he can make at least an edible food."
"Not to be rude but I doubt it helps the case with Siegfried-san."
(Was his cooking that bad?)
(It was that bad.)
"I guess you are right. Seriously though what makes me wonder is how he can cook so bad, and more importantly, I don't know how Cecilia can like his food either."
Theresa gets a warning from her grandfather about Kaslana's cooking skills. He tells her that the food made by a Kaslana is very bad. There are also rumors about a Kaslana accidentally setting fire to the entire kitchen just to boil water. His grandfather even made a rule forbidding anyone with the Kaslana lineage to approach the kitchen in Schicksal.
At first, Theresa just thinks that the rumor is false and that her grandpa's warning is very exaggerating. Ever since she was adopted, her grandpa always shower her with love and always doted her. She doesn't believe that somebody's cooking could be that bad. She also doesn't believe a rumor too much except she sees it herself.
And how much she regrets that.
That is something that Kamijou agrees with. Which is say something about how bad the cooking is. He also doesn't know how Cecilia likes the food Siegfried made. Perhaps this is what people mean by the power of love.
"Though I hear from grandpa that all Kaslana like this."
"Every Kaslana?"
"Yes, my grandpa says it's been like that from the start."
(Must be genetic then.)
It had never crossed his mind in his entire life that Kamijou would encounter a whole lineage of people unable to make proper food. Then again, he didn't expect to be reincarnated or meet aliens either.
If Kevin hears this, he would object to the boy's statement. Because so far he been proven himself the ability to can cook normally. Even though what he always cooks is just a cup of instant noodles. Which is considering he is the progenitor of Kaslana, can say what he does as a miracle itself.
"Don't worry Theresa-san, I will ensure that Siegfried-san does not touch the kitchen."
"I am glad we have same opinon Touma! I am so proud of you Letting a Kaslana cook in the kitchen is a crime against humanity!"
"Hm, what is it about me?"
The voice came from Siegfried and beside him was Cecilia who was holding Kiana.
"Aunt Teri!"
"Sorry, Theresa it took longer to wear the dress."
"Not at all, I just came here too. But … wow, you look so beautiful in that dress Cecilia."
What Cecilia wears is a pure white one-piece dress that matches her hair color. There is also jewelry such as a white pearl necklace around her neck and a purple square earring on her left ear.
Kiana also wears a similar one-piece like her mother but without any jewelry.
"I'm flattered. Thank you."
"Of course she is beautiful. She is my wife after all."
"Then can you explain why you are still after another woman's skirt Siegfried?"
"Chasing after another woman's skirt? Who? Me? Haha, what you're talking about Theresa? "
Siegfried lied as naturally as he breathed.
"Don't worry about it, I believe my husband would not such thing. Isn't it, dear Siegfried?"
Cecilia said those words easily and with a smile. But even Kamijou could easily tell it is not the expression of a wife who trusts her husband won't look at other women. Rather it was the expressions that say there is a fate worse than death awaiting you if that is true.
"O-of course not Cecilia!"
And Siegfried knew far too well not to make his wife angry. It would be not funny if he ends like what happened to Sigurd and Brynhildr in the legend.
"Now then, I guess It's your turn to wear the dress, Theresa."
"Eh?"
"Erm, Do I really have to wear this?"
Unlike the previous nun's attire, Theresa's current outfit is a Chinese dress in a combination of white and black with a bit of red here and there. The hair which is usually braided turns into two buns with a red ribbon used to tie it.
"Aunt Teri~"
And Kiana seems to enjoy herself in her aunt's arms. Right now they were in a field covered by green grass. The trees here and there give a beautiful and natural impression to look at.
"Sorry Theresa but Kiana loves seeing you in that dress."
And a few steps away from them was Siegfried holding the camera and trying to find a good angle to take a photo.
"Anything for Kiana I guess."
Even Theresa couldn't resist if it was for her cute niece.
"On the count of three, girls. 1, 2, 3, and say cheese!"
"Cheese!"
"Cheese!"
On a bench not far from them, sits a certain spiky-haired boy. Not long ago his little friend must go. It seems something important is happening. His part of the photoshoot was over a few moments ago.
And since then Kamijou has been seeing how the other photoshoot session going. He actually didn't expect the photoshoot will drain so much energy. Not too tired but at least sufficient to keep him from concentrating enough so he doesn't notice that he's being approached by someone.
"Are you tired?"
The soft voice immediately woke him up.
"You don't need to force yourself. The photoshoot is almost over, so it's alright if you want to go rest."
"Thank you for worrying me Cecilia-san. But I am fine really."
After a moment, Cecilia then decided to sit beside Kamijou. The spiky-haired boy then felt a sense of deja vu just like when he was with Siegfried. But somehow, he knew this one would be different from when he was with that man.
"Touma, Can I ask about something?"
"Yes?"
"What do you think about us?"
At first, there is a surprised expression on his face, but that didn't last long. His expression right now is turned into a smile.
"I think all of you is a good person."
"Thank you for your kind word Touma, but that was not what I asking for."
"Huh?"
"When I said us, it include you too."
He didn't have enough time to understand the implication of what the woman said, because once more Cecilia embrace him tightly.
"Ich Liebe Dich."
And once more Cecilia said those words.
"Touma, are you afraid to accept us?"
Kamijou opened his mouth to deny it, but no voice came out of it. And that was enough to give Cecilia a confirmation.
"You knew, before I meet Ziggy I never what is felt to have freedom before. As a Valkyrie, I am always busy doing a mission that Overseer gives."
Cecilia recalled the dark past where she thought it was fine to live like that.
"But all of that changed at the night when Ziggy save me who unconscious. Not only does he give me a place to stay and take care of me, but he also offers to take me to my base."
Even though he had been hearing this from Siegfried, Kamijou still decided to listen to it carefully and attentively.
"When we arrive at a town, I was in awe seeing that. And Ziggy who realized that invited me to have a look in the town. Together we go for a walk in Town. We go to the library and read the book there. enter the clothing store and see the clothes on display. And do much much more. For the first time in my life, I could sense something like that, and that make me very happy. But when he asked me to explore the world more with him, I refused it."
He resists the temptation to ask why the reason Cecilia refuses that.
"This is because at that time I think it was not my place to be."
Kamijou Touma has only one home, a place for him to return. And this beautiful and kind place is not his home. That place belongs in his dorm dormitory together with Index and Othinus. Even until now where he already knows he can't return to that place anymore.
"Since then, I always convince myself that the choice I made is right. But it seems Ziggy is not agreed with that. Because he comes to see me again to destroy that illusion and save me. "
She heard that Siegfried must manage to best Valkrie as a condition from Overseer to be able to meet her again. And he spends two years doing that before finally managing to save her. Right now, like him, Cecilia would go all out to save Kamijou Touma.
"This time I will in his place. All of the fear you have and whatever doubt is inside your heart. You don't need to worry about it anymore. We – I, Ziggy, Theresa, and Kiana will accept you as you are. Because of that, you don't need to be afraid anymore. No matter what your past we will never abandon you. and Whatever happens, we will always stay with you."
For her, Kamijou Touma is nothing more than a lost child who has been through a lot and is too afraid to accept them. And it was far from enough for Cecilia to do the best she could to save him.
Kamijou Touma unconsciously avoids getting close. This is because he is afraid the other person would be affected by his bad luck. But that excuse expires the moment he realizes the misfortune is no longer with him.
Then why does he still avoid getting close?
That is because the scar in his heart still remains until now. The moment he realizes he can't meet with those who are close to him hurts him so much. Even if his mind has accepted the farewell, his heart is not.
Kamijou then recalled the words he said to a girl whose real name he didn't know on Christmas Eve.
"I mean, we've got a whole world out there. I'd be missing out if I didn't enjoy that along with everyone else. Smiling and running around together is the much easier path."
It was what he said to "Maidono Hoshimi". A girl who let herself be forever bound by what she lost. And see where he is right now.
Well, well, well, how the turntable.
He can't meet Index and Othinus again. The one who will always stay with him no matter what.
But so what?
His family, his friend, and everyone else he knew right now is gone. There is no hope for him to see them again.
SO WHAT?!
Right now he was given something that he couldn't ever imagine before. Something that many people would kill to get. A second chance to live.
Is he gonna waste this chance just because he is afraid?
Is he gonna let his past deter him to life?
Is he gonna do that same mistake again?
Is he gonna forever be trapped in his own illusion?
The answer to all that question is no.
He would take the kind hands of those who had been waiting for him for so long. This time for sure he will step forward from his past. No matter what future awaits him, he will accept it with a smile.
"I'm sorry to have troubled you all this time."
"Not at all, I've been said it before isn't it? I and Siegfried are more than happy to take care of you. Because of that, you didn't need to worry anymore."
This is nothing more than a sincere desire to save others.
"Thank you."
"You're welcome."
Kamijou didn't expect to feel this kind of kindness again. It is the same kindness that gives him the strength to move forward even if that means he must select the very cruel choice. Where his heart and resolve almost break because he must decide.
Himself or a perfect world without crime, debt, or broken hearts.
The answer to that is very obvious for anyone. Compare to the entire world what weight of one person has. The one who can trample on everyone else's lives for themselves is without a doubt evil.
"Why do you feel the need to unconditionally place yourself below everyone else /escape?"
But she told him it's alright to select himself over the world. He tried to argue if he decide to pick himself, the weight of that action definitely would crush him. She easily counters that by saying that there's nothing wrong with deciding for him who to prioritize. She ensures him there's nothing wrong with prioritizing himself just this once.
Kamijou Touma then rejects that world, he rejects a perfect world without crime, debt, or broken hearts. And because of that kindness, she give him at that time made Kamijou Touma can bear the weight of the sin of doing that very selfish action. One of many things he regrets is that he never gets a chance to be thankful to her for saving him.
Though he is very glad could feel this again, but there is just a little bit of problem.
"Uhm Cecilia-san?"
"Yes?"
"…How long you are gonna hug me?"
"Are you not like it?"
"No, it's just a bit … embarrassing."
What the spiky-haired boy said drew a chuckle from Cecilia. She then reluctantly let go of her hand. Cecilia actually still wanted to pamper the boy more. But she also doesn't want to make him uncomfortable
Because of his recklessness, Kamijou Touma is used get scolded. But the only time he remembers being scolded like this is when he is at the worst to the point of almost suicide. And even then he was not getting hugged and treated like a child.
If someone he knew saw this he gonna live with humiliation for his entire life. The embarrassment is gonna as worse as failing a grade. It was at this time that Kamijou Touma was happy for the first time that there was no one he knew in this world.
Not long after both Touma and Cecilia then saw Theresa walking towards them. While behind Theresa, Kiana and Siegfried were playing catch-up happily. Looks like the photoshoot is finally over.
"Thank you so much for the help, Theresa."
"Thank you for your hard work Theresa-san."
"No, at all! I am happy to help. And the photoshoot is actually less tiring than I thought."
From there they can see the little girl waving her hand at them inviting them to play with her.
"Are you not gonna join them, Touma?"
"Maybe later, they have too much energy."
"I know right! It's like they were never tired. I don't know how you can keep up with them Cecilia."
"You give me too much credit, Theresa. And to answer your question, that is because I am a mother after all. "
Both Theresa and Touma were stunned by the answer Cecilia give. The way the woman says it makes it look like that is the most obvious thing. The same of like need no reason to save someone. There is also no reason for parents more than make their children happy.
"Because you're a mother huh?"
"Yes, because I am a mother."
No matter what, a parent will always prioritize their children. They will ensure that their children are always safe, grow healthy, and live happily. Even if he just remember a few moments with his parent he knew that well enough.
He had seen his father's efforts so that he could live a normal life without his misfortune. He also knew that his mother would love him no matter what. It was because they were his parents, they had the strength to do that.
This is the same reason they decided to send their child far away in Academy City. Even if it means they can't spend more time together as a family. Because they hope in the city of science Kamijou Touma will be protected from the malice of people who believe he brings misfortune. The spiky-haired boy right now can only hope that they have the same strength to take the news of him well.
"You knew this moment is very pleasant and peaceful. It really makes me hope if a day like this never ends."
Of course, Theresa wasn't the only one who felt this way. Both Cecilia and Touma also have the same sentiment. Unfortunately, everything has an end at some point. This moment of peace was disrupted by a sudden call. The red symbol on the call is sufficient to indicate that this is an emergency call.
"Grampa Otto called. It looks pretty urgent."
Theresa immediately picked up the call of the Overseer. That this was rarely happening and she knew that there must be something important that required immediate action. Once the call is connected, a certain voice can be heard.
"Sorry Theresa, I know this your free day, but I got a mission for you."
"What happens, grandpa?"
"There is mysterious disappearance in Babylon labs and I hope you can investigate it."
"Babylon labs? The one in Russia?"
"Yes, more details about that will be explained on the way."
"Alright, grandpa, I will go there soon."
"Please be careful Theresa and once more I am sorry to give you a task in your free day."
After saying that the call was immediately cut off. That marked the end of Otto and Theresa's conversation. Theresa then turns her face to her best friend with a feeling of regret.
"Sorry Cecilia, but it seems I must leave early."
"It's alright Theresa, I understand. Please take good care of yourself."
The spiky-haired boy also overheard the entire conversation between Otto and Theresa. When he heard the word Russian, he felt like a sudden fear rose in his heart and mind. Kamijou Touma really wants to hope this is just a false alarm. Deep down he already knew a day like this would end one day. It's just that he didn't expect it to end now of all time.
This situation really reminds him of one of the scenarios in Infinity Hell. But there is a major difference between that and there. At least when Othinus tried to break him, he knew that will destroyed sooner or later. And even if he failed that time, there is still a chance to return to his world where everyone else he knew is still alright.
But that convenience is not in here anymore. There is no fail-safe in this world. If he fails that means the end. The dead could not be brought back. Because the real world was not that convenient. He doubts his heart can take it well this time. At least not after the place he was accepted for was taken from him a second time.
"What happens, auntie?"
It seemed that their conversation had piqued the little girl's curiosity.
"Nothing happen, Kiana, auntie just got called for work."
"Aunty has to go?"
The sad face of Kiana gives critical damage to her heart. She wants to immediately do anything to erase that expression from her niece. Theresa was seriously tempted to negotiate with her grandpa, even though she knew that would be futile. But (un)fortunately, it seems Siegfried has an idea to handle this situation.
"Don't be sad Kiana, instead you should be happy for this good news!"
Siegfried's words got the attention of all other people. From their expression, they also don't know what good news from this situation.
"Dear, can you please elaborate to us what the good news is?"
"Of course, this is good news. You and Touma are plan prepare the food after this isn't it? This means, if Theresa left, more servings for me and Kiana."
This gives rise to different expressions from each person.
Kiana seems happier after realizing that she can eat more
Touma couldn't help but smile at the man's statement
Cecilia is amused by the way her husband comforts their daughter
And Theresa's reaction is…
"W-what?! How can you-! I hate you, Siegfried!"
She emits energy that screams "I am angry!", but Kamijou can help but think it failed miserably. The pout on Theresa's face doesn't help but only makes her cuter. This is a similar case to a red panda if cornered, they will stand on its hind legs and extend its claws to appear larger and threatening. Which doesn't work at all.
The spiky-haired boy finally understood why Siegfried liked to tease Theresa so much.
"Theresa-san, if you want I can cook for you."
"That right Theresa, both of us would gladly cook for you anytime."
Fortunately, it seem what they said finally calmed Theresa.
"Both of you are really kind! I am really touched thank you. And Touma, I really hope you never grow up to be like Siegfried."
"I am still here you know. And what does that even mean?"
"Kiana, auntie go first alright."
"Bye-bye, auntie!"
Ignoring the man Theresa really wanted to spend more time with this family. Chatted more with Cecilia, played together with Kiana, and ate Touma's delicious food. But she knew more than anyone not to disobey the Overseer's orders. After all, it wasn't like this shared moment was about to disappear. When she completes the mission she can come here again. It was as simple as that and Theresa could come back to this place once more.
"Theresa-san."
"What is is Touma? Why do you look so worried?"
"Please be careful there."
"Don't worry about it, Touma. Even though look like this I'm is one of the best Valkyries that Schicksal has."
"That right Touma don't let her sho-AHHH!"
"Sorry Siegfried, could you please repeat what you were about to say? What? Grandpa, you heard that! Siegfried says he is happily volunteering to replace me on this mission!"
"Wait no! Overseer, I didn't say anything about that! What your granddaughter says is a lie!"
Cecilia couldn't help but smile at this situation in front of her. Like Theresa, she too wished this could last forever. It is Cecilia's desire to live together with the people who are precious to her. She also hopes to see and accompany her daughter to grow up healthy and live a peaceful life.
Ever since Kiana was born, Cecilia couldn't stop picturing how she look when she grew up. Cecilia even prepare an outfit that someday her daughter would wear. A beautiful winter-themed dress in snow white and crystal blue which will be given as a gift on Kiana's 18th birthday. Though it looks like she'll have to prepare another outfit. Because there apparently appeared other people who she wanted to see the growth as well.
Unfortunately, this world is not that kind. Where people are doomed before they make their choice. The cry was lost before it reaches anyone. And the happiness must be paid with a heavy price. Or at least it was, before the presence of a certain spiky-haired boy in this world change it all.
"Every Kaslana Bold Must Live By Their Oath. Purge The Vile Honkai And Smash The False Gods.
Your Sires Sleep In The Fields As Humanity's Brave Shields.
By The Judgement Of Shamash, Kaslana's Die And Never Yield."
While watered down over centuries of history, this Oath has still remained. Its promise still compels the Kaslanas and urges them to protect humanity from the Honkai, even if their own life is at stake.
This oath has been followed by all who have the lineage of Kaslana. It was the same oath that pushed Kallen Kaslana to abandon Schicksal and her family to hide away a dangerous black box that contain the power to corrupt everything.
Legend has it that the oath was made by the first person to bear Kaslana in his name, Kevin Kaslana.
And right now he getting restless.
Kevin has snow-white hair and blue eyes, which are inherited by all his descendants. He wore a long black coat over his white turtleneck, with black pants and boots. There were splashes of blue here and there on his clothes.
The place he was currently in could only be described as otherworldly. This place is also filled with Honkai and would kill someone if they stayed here too long without proper equipment. And he had been trapped in this place for over 1000 years.
This place served as a prison to prevent him from interacting with the outside world. His best friend made this prison to protect the world and humanity from him. It's kind of ironic to think he was the one who was once hailed as the strongest warrior that humanity had in his era. The same era that he failed to protect and was destroyed by Honkai when Final Herrscher arrived more than 50000 years ago.
Fortunately, they were able to avoid complete annihilation. The survivor then made a plan to prevent the same thing from happening again. Project S.A.V.E. a series of plans to put in place in the face of humanity's threat. With this, they hope to avoid the fate that befell their era.
As long as these projects succeed there is still a glimpse of hope for humanity to survive. But reality betrayed their expectations. None of the projects yield the desired result and one by one start to fail.
The only Project that remains is Project STIGMA. Which Kevin and others agree is only meant as a last resort. Unlike the other, Project STIGMA has the highest chance of success to ensure the survival of the Current Era.
Then why not run the Project STIGMA from the beginning?
Because if Project STIGMA occurs, it will cost a lot to succeed. Based on the calculations there is a 99.9% chance of humanity dying. This is the reason why the Project is considered the worst of all the others. The only reason the Project STIGMA is allowed is if all other Projects fail. Which unfortunately did happen.
As the one who bears the signet of Deliverance, it was his duty to carry out this project to ensure the survival of humanity. And this is when he is confronted by Su. Kevin knew very well what his best friend nature is. He didn't resent his Su to make a decision to stop him. And it's not like he's trying everything to stop that from happening.
Kevin could have actually killed Su or escaped before the prison completely sealed him off. But he chose none of those and instead allowed himself to be sealed. Because even he knows that humans will have to pay a very high price if Project STIGMA is implemented. And he wasn't prepared to bear the burden of doing that.
Though he was glad Su made that decision, he knew there were only a few moments left before the descent of Final Herrscher and this make him restless.
The reason he knew this was because he sensed something familiar. This was the second time he had been struck by this feeling in this new era. The first time he felt this, he knew it was a sign that the first Herrscher was born in a new era. And now he felt the same way again, which meant the second Herrscher had finally woken up. But unlike before this one feel way stronger.
(It seems the second will made its appearance soon.)
"I know, I can feel it too."
(Compare to the previous era they much prepared. So I don't think there is something you must worry about. Still, I wonder what Second Herrscher it will be. Will it be Herrscher of Void like in the previous era or maybe another Herrscher entirely?)
"It doesn't matter, the moment Final Herrscher descent it would be the end."
(Pessimist one, aren't we? Are you not curious if Su already maybe found the way to defeat the Honkai or not?)
"I think the fact I still in here should be enough answer."
(And you not worry about him?)
"…"
(You are a bit selfish, isn't it? Forcing your best friend to do the dirty work. I don't blame you for this though. In fact, I'm glad you got sealed thus preventing Project STIGMA happen.)
"You are right, I am is very selfish and the most terrible person to have ever lived."
(*sigh* Here we go again with your self-hate. Not everything is your fault and I think it hurt him more than it hurt you.)
"I know, I owe Su apologize"
(I'm pretty sure the reason why he never visits and talks to you again is because he thinks he betrayed your trust and feels he doesn't deserve to do any of that.)
"Su was too kind for his own good. He will blame himself even if it's not his fault. Like what happened to Klein."
(You knew, even if you say like that you are not too different from him. Don't give me that look, both of us knew that you regret what happened to your descendent.)
"Kaslana's oath was a mistake that should never have been in the first place."
(Again, It's not your fault, I doubt even Mei could predict if the Honkai gene in your lineage would go dormant.)
"Maybe or maybe not, but one thing I know for sure. I doomed my progeny the moment I made those oath."
(Yet even if they knew how much it would cost, they still used that Divine Key. All of your descendants fell because they wanted to protect humanity and those close to them. They do it with pride and without regret.)
"It changes nothing. The fact that they did not resent me for made those and didn't regret following that oath only made it worse."
(...)
"Tell me, how many of my descendants died using it?"
(…23.)
"Has no one succeeded in awakening their Honkai genes yet?"
(No, so far is none. There is one who almost reach me, but instead of awakening her Honkai gene she got another thing instead. I already told you about her isn't it?)
"Kallen Kaslana."
(Other than her there is none that comes close to awakening their dormant gene. Though I got a feeling this won't last long.)
"I see."
(Well, the only thing we can do right now is just to wait and hope.)
"Then I already do both of it."
Kevin still patiently wait and hopes Su manages to find another way to save humanity before the arrival of Herrscher of the End. Because he knew there was no chance for humanity to win against the Final Herrscher. This is his opinion as the one who manages to single-handedly defeat the 9th and 11th Herrscher of his era.
The memories of the battle with Herrscher of the End are still fresh in his mind. The battle to decide the fate of humanity took a place on the moon. Where he and seven other people who are considered as greatest warriors were selected to carry out that task.
Unfortunately, it seems they underestimate the power of Final Herrscher. The Herrscher of the End had power that far outclassed the previous 13 before her. They were completely outmatched, with 2 of the warriors dying within 5 minutes of the Herrscher's arrival.
And even with all of that, they fail to deal a significant amount of damage. At that very moment, he knew humanity will not stand a chance to win. It was just by pure luck that he manage to land an attack that stun Final Herrscher for 12 hours. An at least enough time just for humanity to hide for the next era. But even then there is no victory for him at all.
The place where he rested and prepared himself for tomorrow.
The woman he loves more than anything else.
The peaceful day when he can just live without thinking about the future.
Now it's all gone and only a memory. A curse that reminds him that Kevin Kaslana is a failure who cannot protect what is precious to him. And no matter how much he hopes, what was lost cannot come back. This is the cold harsh reality.
Yet, he is not giving up. It wasn't that Kevin didn't want to give up, he just couldn't. Because he made a promise to her and everyone else.
No matter what the cost is
Humanity will surely emerge as a victor from the fight against Honkai.
No matter how many seasons pass, no matter how many ages gone by, Honkai still hunger after civilization in the dark. Even if he still has hope in his best friend, Kevin's patient grows thin. If the worst came true and he must carry Project STIGMA again
No one will stop him.
No one can stop him.
This grave sin shall be his alone. Nor his best friend nor his progeny will share the burden for what he did. All his sin would stop in him and no one can change his mind.
Chapter End