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Ayane: ......It seems they have started.
While feeling the faint wind of death on her cheek, Ayane watches the blue world quietly.
Ayane: ------
Dressed in her black clothes, Ayane's task as Valkyrie consists of supporting Odin with her "Skill".
------Skinfaxi------
By enhancing her sixth sense, she is able to pinpoint the position of all magi that exist within this world, and is basically a form of radar.
By using it, she is able to accurately locate the three other remaining magi.
Ayane: Unexpected...I did not think he would move on his own...
She was aware of the fact that Odin had been lurking in some personal space of his own just as he had for so long,
but she can't understand why he would involve himself in a battle when he chose her to fight them for him.
It's no wonder that she had her doubts.
For Odin however, he truly must want to get his hands on the brooch that Sayuki possesses.
Ayane: But still, things might be good just like this.
If I defeat the other one that remains---than this ritual will also end...
Ayane: Wait for me, Reiji-kun. A little more---Just a little more and you will be revived.
Ayane: Yes...Even though I have sold my soul to the devil and become a villian...
Having a ruthless determination, Ayane takes one step in the direction she must head.
Ayane: ......
------However.
The moment Ayane takes her first step, she senses something behind her and stops.
As it happens she was still using Skinfaxi, and with her sixth sense sharpened she was able to barely detect the subtle fluctuations.
...However, this should be------impossible.
Now that Sagara Ichigo has fallen, the Irregular should have disappeared,
because this blue world is where nothing other than magi are supposed to exist.
???: Found you~
And, in order to find the truth to her question, Ayane quietly turns around.
Kuri: You are...a "bad person". You're pitch black...and not just what you said a minute ago.
Ayane: ...And who are you supposed to be to say something like that?
Kuri: I am me. To the "bad people" on this island however, I'm nothing but a cute, cute girl.
While she diverts her self-introduction on purpose, Ayane has a guess as to who she truly is.
If the person in front of her is not some kind of illusion...Then the possible answers are obviously limited.
Ayane: ...Heeh. You certainly are cute...But I wonder if you even work?
Kuri: ...
Ayane: You aren't---a magi it seems, but you are not human either, are you...? I cannot think of any other explanation.
Ayane: It seems like you are either a ghost or a doll after all, am I right?
Yes---That is the conclusion that Ayane has come to.
Ayane's Skinfaxi is a skill that can detect all magi in this world.
In other words, the girl in front of her isn't a magi.
And here within Eyespace, no other forms of "Life" are permitted other than magi...
In other words, this girl is an Irregular presence that exists outside the rules of this world---
She is neither human nor magi.
Perhaps she was born into this world by accident, or she's some kind of paranormal phenomenon...
If magi are the only forms of life that can exist here, than she literally cannot be alive.
Kuri: You're right. I am not human, just a mere doll. Understand? Therefore, aren't I truly amazing?
Ayane: Indeed, it seems you truly are a doll. And what business does a doll have with me?
Kuri: You're a pretty stupid human. Didn't I already tell you? You're a bad person.
Ayane: ...
Ayane studies Kuri, trying to figure out what she is doing here.
As she keeps up her poker face, she wonders what to do with her.
Since she's an Irregular, her battle potential is completely unknown---
While she was likely born as an accident, she could potentially have an ability completely different from Magician or Creator class.
But if she had to guess, it's probably of the latter.
Only magi can defeat other magi...So that means that even normally non-combat types can never defeat one.
Even if she doesn't have the ability to compete with magi, she still could be hiding a particularly nasty ability.
Than, perhaps she need not necessairly agitate her into becoming her enemy.
Ayane: ------
Just as she opens her mouth in order to test her theory---the blue world is suddenly dyed in crimson.
Ayane: Ah---?!
While she cannot bear to stand the tremendous impact that occurs miles away, for a moment Ayane shakes from fear.
Ayane: ...Has it subsided?
However, her fearing the worst quickly fades, as the crimson sphere stops moving and implodes inward on itself.
Ayane: ......
The fact that the world should have been destroyed by that sphere yet wasn't is a concept that is completely beyond her ability to understand...
The ground itself that she stands upon quickly causes the terror that overwhelmed her to fade.
No one other than Odin could have released such a terrible force.
That kind of attack could have destroyed a star with ease, but for it not to destroy the world is an inherent "Contradiction".---
While such acts that contradict themselves are normal when it comes to magi,
even Ayane couldn't help but tremble from the sheer absurdity of that event.
Even though he's supposed to be limiting how much magic he expends, she is convinced that there is no magi that could defeat him...
His power is too overwhelming.
As long as he fights, her help is completely unnecessary...In fact, she would only get in the way.
Ayane: ------
However, the fact that Ayane has "Resolved" herself to fight on the battlefield has not changed.
---Since she sold her soul to the devil, failure is not an option.
Even if the possiblity is within decimal points, there must be no doubt that the opponent has been completely obliterated.
All for the sake of meeting the one she loves again......
That's why doing anything else is a waste of time, she needs to find and defeat the remaining magi and starts to leave.
Kuri: ...Other than you, there is another..."Bad person".
Ayane: ...Yes. I guess that might be true.
Kuri: Than after I defeat you, I'll go and defeat him.
Ayane: ...I believe you are mistaken. I am not a "Bad person". I am-
Kuri: Liar.
Ayane: Eh...?
Kuri: You are a "Bad person". I can understand by your color. You have the same color as the one that Onii-chan tried to defeat.
Kuri: I've seen and understand the color of your "Heart". Therefore I will defeat you.
Ayane: ......
Snap.
The air around Ayane changes after Kuri speaks her words.
While she may be able to see her opponents' nature, Ayane quickly shuts down the superficial conversation.
She is a troublesome "Enemy" that looks down on all humans beneath her as weak, clouding her own judgment---
Ayane is now convinced that she never intended to talk with her from the beginning.
And at the same time, she has to be aware of this Irregular opponent---
Before this ritual can suffer from even further stagnation, she changes her mind and decides that she must be defeated.
No matter who it is that obstructs Odin's plan---She will eliminate them.
That "Murderous intent" is what rules her whole body.
Ayane: You are right, I guess I certainly might be a "Bad person" now...But, I cannot disappear.
Ayane: There is only one person who can save me now---And I will not let anyone stop me from meeting him.
Ayane: Least of all, a doll like you!
Kuri: Kukuku, good. Than I guess as a reward---
Kuri: I'll punish you for being a "Bad person"!
The situation is volatile.
In order to defeat the one in front of them they cannot allow to exist, thier "Magic" begins to billow around them.
Kuri: Come out, everyone---
Kuri: Let's all play together, shall we?
Souls appear at her signal, looking like lumps of light that shine with magic as they circle around Kuri.
The balls of burning magic look like will-o'-the-wisps, and they float independently, as if they have a mind of their own.
Ayane: What a mysterious "Ability". No, an "Ability" that looks like a magic trick of sorts?
Kuri: They are all my friends. Now, let's play tag, shall we?
Kuri: Your target is that "Bad person". ------Now, go!
Ignoring Ayane's provocation, Kuri launches both floating balls of magic at her.
At her signal, they swoop down upon Ayane like tracer rounds...!
However, an attack of only that extent is insufficient for a magi like Ayane to fear.
She uses her String Load to easily intercept and wipe out the balls of light.
Ayane continues to handle her attacks one after another with ease.
She wears the title of Valkyrie, and her battle theory allows her to flawlessly demonstrate
the true value of her ability to see an object, analyze it, and cut it down.
By viewing an object with her "Eyes", she is able to instinctively "Analyze" the full strength and capabilities of an opponent,
and than forms a strategy with that analysis and use it like a "Sword" to attempt to achieve victory from her first attack.
Understanding the battlefield while keeping herself hidden for so long allowed her to measure the abilities of her opponents up until now,
and she is able to showcase such an outstanding talent perfectly.
Of course, there is a noise mixed in with such flawless music------The one act to protect Yoshino Reiji.
Ironically, now that she's lost the person she's wanted to protect,
she is now able to return to her original form as she no longer has any limitations,
and can keep a level head as she slaughters her opponents.
She will also not neglect to analyze those that are beneath her, but as long as an attack that goes beyond her ability to understand is not used---
Kuri will have no chance of winning.
The amount of time Kuri has left is the time it takes Ayane to "See", "Analyze",
and use the resulting strategy as her "Sword" to obtain victory...!
Kuri: ------
Therefore.
Kuri: ------Skithblathnir------
It wouldn't be wrong to say that Kuri has no qualms about using her "Trump card"...!
Ayane: !
Due to Kuri's unusual existence,
Ayane can guess that this "Ability" has to be a side effect of her phenomenon, and her analysis of the full picture continues to be painted.
------Skithblathnir------
Her "Ability" is that to manipulate all souls---
The "Ability" to evoke the spirits of the dead to work for her---
Unlike the forbidden act of reviving the dead, she is able to temporarily create rather than summon a dead soul.
What is really taking place is that she is Creating something---And as Ayane thought, she isn't a magi at all.
But although she is a Creator, they aren't normally capable of challenging magi since they are of lower rank.
???: What what, it's been a while. I'm feeling pretty excited---
However.
???: I get to go on a hellish rampage again thanks to this guy---!
That assumption is easily overturned when even magi can be evoked from the dead---!
Ayane: Na---
Kuri: Well? These are my new servants. If it's them, than they won't lose to a "bad person" like you...!
Ayane: I am surprised...I did not think you could evoke the spirits of those that were of higher rank than you.
Kuri: Higher rank? I'm so cute and gifted that it's only to be expected.
Ayane: ...Ufufu. For someone like me to fight against someone with the "Ability" to employ the dead---This is just far too ironic.
Kuri: Now, you two---There's no need to hold back, go on and take care of this "Bad person".
Kengo: Well, why not. Good to see you, Prez.
Ayane: ...It has been a while, Kirisaki-kun.
Kengo: Even so, I never expected that I would be called back like this to fight the same person I did before, and it turns out it was you, Prez.
Kengo: You seem like you're a real woman after all---For some reason or another. Well? Do you want to overlook this setting and go on a date?
Ayane: My, you are quite the gentleman. I wonder if you would be alright with a date, however?
You would surely make more 'adult' suggestions, would you not?
Kengo: A date is naturally how more adult actions begin. It would be fun for us to play after we've been opponents up until now.
Kengo: ...Well, I also hate being tied up, and I don't think I'll be here for long anyway.
Good grief, I really do have no luck with women---I lack the characteristics it would take to land a tiger like you.
Ayane: Though I am interested in how you planned to escort me, I have to regrettably decline.
The only one who can do what he wants with me is Reiji-kun.
Kengo: Than unfortunately it seems that negotiations are over. Let's go, Hagane---Time for us to show off our tag team ability!
Hagane: Ha! So you've finally finished chatting. Than it's fine to go, right? I'm ready to rampage plenty!!
Kengo: Of course. However, a half-baked strategy won't work against the Prez. We'll use that formation, Hagane!
Hagane: Tch...I still think it's too flashy, but alright!
Kuri: Now, it's time for the second act of our game of tag, Onee-chan.---I won't go so easy on you this time---!
Kengo: First off, take this as a greeting!!
Hagane: Allow me to also cover you!!!
With a *** roar along with that of the 666 knives, a storm of destruction darkens the sky---!
Ayane: A waste. Did you truly think an attack that weak would work?
But the maiden of war is untouched by their deadly attacks.
Playing her own special music, she turns away all threats.
Kengo: Whoo. That's the Prez for you. That didn't even graze you.
Ayane: Your attacks are too simple. Rather than hiding knives in my blind spots, how about using a bit more effort, hm?
Kengo: Ha. I don't plan on resorting to have to mimic stupid tricks like that other guy.
Kengo: If I'm to be a real man, than I've got to put up a front and look like one, don't I?
Ayane: Ufufu, well said. But is that really how you feel deep down?
Ayane: While you seem to have a powerful magical weapon, it still has not cut me yet.
Kengo: No no, I just wanted to look cool in front of you, Prez...There's no deep meaning behind it, just how it is.
Ayane: ------
Even though it looks like she's joking around, Ayane is now convinced that her analysis is correct.
Just like Momiji, he is able to manipulate his magical weapon with his mind, making it a remote-controlled type of weapon---
In addition to that, he is able to manipulate many more knives at a time with his "Ability" than Momiji can with her Grimoire.
Even a special talent such as Momiji would have trouble dealing with someone who can use as many daggers like this at once,
but he has had far too little experience in actually using them.
He cannot manipulate his Stream Field to formulate a good strategy,
and even though he has the advantage in numbers, it's in fact a large handicap to him.
Ayane: While you can make as many knives as you want as long as you stand there, it does not seem as if you have any strategy, do you?
Ayane: And in order to maintain those knives, you constantly have to use your "Ability" to keep them moving---
Ayane: Maintaining that kind of telekinetic "Ability", you have to consume much more Willpower than you would like.
Ayane: Therefore, that is why you cannot just conceal your knives. That is as much as you can do now...!
Kengo: ...
While he's normally quick to respond, Ayane's words cause Kengo to shut his mouth.
Her ability to analyze her opponent's capabilities truly is unrivaled.
Due to the nature of his Stream Field, it is impossible for him to use a small number of them as a cohesive unit,
so even if he was able to hide some of his knives and fight with the rest, there would be little to no reward for doing so.
Although it's impossible for them all to be destroyed with merely a single blow,
if the majority of them are destroyed than it will cause him to use a corresponding amount of magic in order to replicate them.
As long as the core exists he can replicate them almost indefinitely just as Keisuke could, up to 666 of the same weapon.
If most of them are destroyed, than he'll have to consume a large amont of magic in order to restore them,
and his future combat power will be reduced substantially as a result.
That's why he isn't used to resorting to any petty tricks, and likes fighting his opponent with everything he has.
However Ayane with very little offense or defense had studied his ability
just from this fight and the first one he had with Reiji, and figured out it's weak point.
And after ascertaining the truth with her words, with his reaction she'll only be able to improve upon her initial analysis.
While she's a little different than Momiji, she is a magi that is able to fight not only with her weapon, but with her words.
And with Kengo's uncommon silence after telling him of her analysis, she smiles, convinced that she is correct.
And, now Kengo feels as is he has been seen through completely, as if he were stripped bare before her.
After only a few words and a couple exchanges she is able to fully understand her opponent's capabilties; she truly is the maiden of war---!
Kengo: Stop joking, Prez. Saying something might make me nervous, you know? You're going to jeopardize my image a popular guy, you know.
Ayane: It is no use trying to bluff me. My heart will not waver from a few simple words.
Ayane: While you may be strong in a fight, you have no sense of how to communicate with life. That is critical.
Ayane: In a fight where life and death is on the line, you seem resistant to kill your opponent, no?
Despite your appearance, your personality has far too much gentlemanly kindness behind it. That is your biggest flaw.
Kengo: ...Looks like I've been found out.
Kengo: Heh...But you know, Prez---
Kengo: Save a speech like that for after you've won!
Kengo: Gheh...!
Ayane: True. Well than------
Ayane: I will do just that!!
Calmly finishing her analysis, Ayane throws Kengo's balance off by making a cut in his arm,
than launches her vermillion threads at him for the coup de grace.
Her attack is much faster than either Hagane or Kuri can react as support while also rendering Kengo's knives useless!
Ayane: You will be first------!
------However.
While Ayane's "Sight" and "Analyze" steps were completed, her "Sword" cuts through nothing but empty air---!
Kengo: Aha, there!
Ayane: Kheh---!
Kengo: Not yet!
Ayane: ...!
Kengo: Ha---As expected of you, Prez. Even now you can stop surprise attacks like that, I'm amazed.
Able to avoid her attack by moving faster than a normal human ever could, Kengo says so like it was perfectly natural,
and quickly fired a counterattack at Ayane in that short timeframe.
It's clearly different from the way Kengo fought up until now---In fact, it's far too different.
Hagane: Tch. Those annoying threads keep flying around like insects. Just watching them from here causes me a lot of stress.
Kengo: Sorry, but leave this to me for a while and keep supporting me, Hagane.
Ayane: ...I understand now. So that is the trick as to how Kirisaki-kun's movement improved so suddenly.
Kengo: Sorry about that. I utilized Hagane's Graviton Press to help me out.
Hagane: Yeah! My "Ability" is able to make others lighter, haha!!
Kengo: ...Well, to be precise his "Ability" allows him to manipulate gravity.
I was the one who figured out that if he could make anything heavier, he could also make them lighter.
Kengo: At best, it removes physical limiters and allows the body's cognitive movement and physical performance to go up,
allowing one to do things they normally couldn't.
Ayane: ......
As Kengo explains, Ayane quickly comes to the same conclusion about Hagane's "Ability".
Similar to her own Brisingamen, his "Ability" is one that specializes in manipulating kinetic energy...
In other words, the ability to freely increase or decrease the amount of force an object has to exert to perform efficiently,
in exchange for more strain on the one effected.
If the opponent's kinetic energy becomes zero, than their attack will be nullified,
but it's strength can also have it's output increased to near infinity...
If Kengo focuses on utilizing Hagane's "Ability" like that, than a similar effect can be achieved thanks to it.
The biggest advantage of all however is that her opponent can operate at the peak of his capability without exerting much force,
and is a disadvantage for her.
With the man named Hagane as his partner, Kengo can fight with no strategy while actually having a strategy, and may in fact be his best card.
Ayane: ...!
In addition, with the current state he is in---Ayane notices that this choice makes it an even stronger tactic than it normally would be.
The primary disadvantage of this combination technique would be additional stress put on the body,
but that does not apply here as the two of them are souls with physical form.
In other words------
Kengo: It seems you've noticed, Prez. As long as Hagane backs me up, I can always fight in such a way.
Ayane: Ufufu. You do not really think you can defeat me by being able to move a little faster, do you?
Kengo: Yeah, I do. If Hagane and I work together---There's no one that can beat us!!
Ayane: Alright. Come than---No matter how much stronger you become, I will show you the absolute difference in our abilities!
Kengo: Alright---Here I go!
Using Ayane's provocative words as a signal, Kengo bursts off and vanishes from sight.
Hagane: Take this!!!!
And at that moment as Ayane focuses on trying to assess Kengo's whereabouts after he vanished,
Hagane brings down his gigantic axe and launches a shockwave at her...!
Ayane: Kheh...!
Barely evading the blow, Ayane jumps back while weaving a defensive network around her for any follow-up attacks.
However, Hagane didn't launch a direct attack because his aim was to shatter the earth and take away her vision with the resulting debris.
Hagane: Now, Kirisaki!!
Since Ayane relies on her vison to manipulate her String Load, with it drastically reduced Hagane has created an opening for his partner...!
Kengo: This here------will end it!!!
Kengo suddenly appears behind Ayane after she completely lost sight of him through the debris, and hurls a punch with all his strength behind it.
However, that turned out to merely be her trap.
Even though she can't see him, she catches and entangles Kengo in her threads.
Not only did she lay threads to block a follow-up attack from Hagane,
but she also waited for the chance to volunatarily jump back in order to "Create" the trap.
It is just one of the many strategies that Ayane had prepared to use against Kengo,
who is nothing but easy prey since he doesn't think of strategy.
Kengo: Na?!
While his physical strength should far exceed the toughness of Ayane's threads,
her String Load still captures him and easily takes away his freedom to move.
It is exactly like the predator style of a spider that captures a fly when it flies into it's web---!
Ayane: Oh dear, how unfortunate. It looks like you are out of tricks.
Kengo: Kheh...I didn't know you liked restraints, Prez. Sorry, but I'm not an M, so please let me go.
Ayane: It is futile, I will not let you go, Kirisaki-kun. With you wrapped like this, it is impossible for you to fight.
While Kengo struggles to somehow escape, Ayane throws him to the ground and binds him even further.
He becomes unable to launch any blow in such a position as he is bound more, and Ayane smiles victoriously,
knowing that he'll be ripped to shreds should he truly try and escape.
Ayane: I will tell you one good thing here at the end, Kirisaki-kun. While you truly seem like a nice guy, I do not care much for feminists---
Ayane: For example, not acting like a coward, and being a man who defeats his opponents without trying to act cool is what appeals to me.
Ayane: Yes---Just like Reiji-kun!!!
Kengo: It seems that no matter what I do, you really have no intention of letting me go...
Kengo: Heh---Than, in that case...
Kengo: Than I'll just have to defeat you like this, Prez!!
Ayane: *Gasp*
The moment she hears his words, Ayane stops just before she delivers the finishing the blow.
And after taking a moment to understand the meaning behind Kengo's words, it hits her...!
Ayane: There's no knives...Don't tell me?!
While Ayane had predicted his last-ditch effort, in the resulting silence she failed to notice that Stream Field had disappeared.
Yes---Possibly, just as Hagane's attack had been a decoy for Kengo to attack, it was all a trap to leave no room for Ayane to move---!
Kengo: Looks like my plan worked, and you fell right into it. Did you really think I would allow you to capture me so easily?
If I wanted to, I could have protected myself easily...!
Kengo: Let's go, Hagane..."With our best"---!
Hagane: Yes! I've been waiting all this time for that!!!
Ayane: Ugh...!
Kengo: Too slow! You won't get away that easily!!
Hagane: Eat...THIS!!!!
Kengo and Hagane: -----GRAVITON-NAEUS-----!!!
Falling from the sky at Ayane's blind spot, the entirety of Nero Apocalyse is strengthened by Graviton Press,
a perfect and literal fusion of their magics.
In addition to limiting movement inside the super-dense sphere of gravity,
it greatly increases the time the threads entangling Kengo can be unwound before they can be used for defense.
With Hagane's combination technique, Ayane realizes her blunder for underestimating their combined strategy as
the attack with all of Kengo's magic behind it pours down upon the maiden of war---!
Ayane: Kuh, ---BRISINGAMEN---!!!
However, just as the attack reaches her, the maiden of war envelops herself in her absolute defense, and mercilessly stops it---!
But just touching her is not enough---It should be noted that even with their cooperation that unless an attack actually reaches her,
it doesn't matter how much magic is poured into it.
Ayane: Haa, haa, haa...
Kengo: OOOOOOOOOOOOOOOHHHHHHHHHHHHH!!!
However.
At the moment when everyone is convinced of that, one man kicks off the ground in denial and runs to the heavens.
Ayane: NA?!
The maiden of war's defense can be declared to perfectly cover and protect her from any kind of magical attack.
That's why Kengo was already convinced that this outcome would happen, and had one hidden play to make should it happen...!
Kengo: -------THIS TIME-------!
Timing his move, Kengo puts himself in danger and seizes his chance, threading the needle with his attack.
Kengo: ------IS WHAT I WAS WAITING FOR------!!!
While Ayane wins in a battle of offense and defense, she will not make it in time because of Kengo's perfectly timed trap---!
Ayane: Guh...?!
Even with her many layers of offense and defense and though she was able to stop Kengo's repeated rushes,
she is forced to protect her body at the last moment with her arms.
No matter how strong one is, a physical defense is a poor shield---Only a magical weapon is capable of destroying another magical weapon.
That's why Ayane, left with no other option, is forced to use her arm to intercept Kengo's attack.
Ayane: Ho...w...?!
Her judgment was correct, she definitely surpassed Kengo's strategy.
But even still at that close range it should have been impossible for him to control his Stream Field so efficiently with his "Ability".
Even though his "magical weapon was destroyed", one of Kengo's knives is sticking out of Ayane's arm.
Kengo: Heh. It's as you think Prez, but I can still exert control to a degree.
Kengo: However, whether it was smart of me of not, I kept a single piece of Stream Field with myself.
Ayane: Na---
Kengo: It would be strange if I could exert direct control over my "Ability", but not know how to wield it myself...!
Ayane: Khuh...!
With Ayane unable to use String Load with the one knife from Stream Field sticking out of her arm as she grasps it with the other, Kengo smiles.
For the maiden of war who takes so much pride in protecting herself from all damage, this scar is the proof of her loss in that regard.
Kengo: Just one thing---That's all I have to say to you, Prez.
Kengo: Even though we may look cowardly or cool, men can also defeat their opponents with a little craftiness.
Kengo: Yes---Just like this!!
Ayane: ......
She sways in place as Kengo says his words of revenge.
Ayane's injured arm hangs loosely at her side as she stands in place.
From her eyes, she penetrates Kengo with a cold, sharp stare.
Kengo: Ha! At last, you show a little emotion. Are you finding things to be a bit more interesting now, Prez?
Ayane: ...re you...How dare you...inflict damage upon me...! I will not forgive you---You damaged the body I was keeping pure for Reiji-kun...!!
Kengo: Even if you're strong, it's pointless. That arm's combat power will have drastically decreased by now. Let alone this three on one situation-
Ayane: -------Dainsleif-------
Kengo: NA---?!
Although he was watching in case his words provoked her---he couldn't move one millimeter as he takes a direct hit.
It happened at literally the speed of light---In accordance to the color of the vermillion threads, his lifesblood begins to flow freely...!
Kengo: Ku...! What, about your...?!
Ayane: Ufufufufufu---What about my arm, you ask...? My left hand will be enough to defeat you all.
Ayane: Now, let us dance. Obey my will like the marionette you are!
Ayane: Haaaaaaa!!
Kengo: Guu, GAAAAAAAAAAAAAHHHHHHHH!!!
Ayane: AHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA! Let us see how much you can withstand!!
It is---literally and exactly sudden death.
Without leaving his hands or feet and even though he does what he can to resist being manipulated, Kengo is cut to pieces by Ayane's threads.
While String Load should have been partially destroyed, her "Last Resort" is enough to destroy any enemy---
And the "Violence" of the act is overwhelming.
Kengo: Ku...haa...This..."Trump Card" of yours, is incomparable...!
Ayane: This is the true "Power" of a magi---Kirisaki-kun. If you are afraid to kill your opponent and avoid those who live,
this is the difference in ability that comes from accepting ones' fate and training---I wonder.
Kuri: ...
Ayane: Now than...Ufufu. It looks like my prediction was correct.
Ayane: While you tried to sound all grown up not too long ago...It seems it was all just a bluff.
Even though she was open many times, Kuri never attacked her at all,
and Ayane finally spoke after having become thoroughly convinced that her prediction was correct.
Ayane: Even for you, it seems that summoning the high-ranking souls of magi comes at a corresponding cost to your magic.
Ayane: You never attacked me because you could not attack---Moreover, you have used it all up to summon these two, haven't you?
Ayane: I knew you were stupid, but is it not strange that you are not even trying to help Kirisaki-kun?
Hagane: ......
Ayane: She has her hands full just handling the two of you...It must be hard to do so. Right, Doll-san?
Kuri: ...
Ayane: Is it painful? You worked very hard. Ufufufu...Now, I will lighten your load.
Ayane: This is------the Finale!!
With Kengo completely incapacitated, Ayane is convinced of her victory and swings both arms at Kuri's small frame.
Hagane: ---I won't let you.
However---the vermillion threads are sliced away by the gigantic battleaxe and fall to the ground uselessly.
Ayane: And what is this mimicry? Do not tell me you are pointing that blade with the intent on opposing me?
Hagane: ...n't care.
Ayane: Eh?
Hagane: I said, I don't care!!
Hagane: No matter who you are, or what reason you have to attack this little girl...
No matter how strong you are young lady, I DON'T CARE---
Hagane: I simply wish to fight you how I want to fight.
Ayane: ---Yes. If you truly want pain so much---Than I will be happy to oblige!!
Ayane: Haaaaaaa!!
Hagane uses his Eckesachs to intercept Ayane's vermillion threads and protect Kuri.
But every magical weapon has a weak point, and using it to protect in such a way is reckless and suicidal...!
Ayane: ---Eh?!
Hagane: Useless.
------Therefore.
Hagane: A thin string like that cannot possibly break my axe...!!
This is the first time that Ayane has not be able to even make a scratch on an opponent's magical weapon when she's used hers like this.
Hagane: Even if we can't move...As long as I have this shield, what do you think you can do...?
Ayane: ...I cannot believe it. I didn't think that it would come out without even a scratch.
Ayane: ...I see. Your weapon was, Eckesachs...If I remember correctly?
Ayane: I do not remember too much about it from Norse mythology...
But I believe Dietrich used it several times in battle and it always emerged unscathed---
According to Ayane's memory, Hagane's Eckesachs was mentioned in many different battles,
and it's legend was that it was a weapon that couldn't be destroyed.
Even among magical weapons, it's durability is unrivaled and it's hardness is absolute.
Yes---No matter what kind of physical attack is used against it, it's "Legend" cannot be damaged.
The only reason the sword of the covenant was able to destroy it with a single blow was because it was able to overturn that "Concept."
Therefore he is completely convinced of his own victory and can just watch the fight from behind that axe.
If Hagane's magical weapon is to be destroyed, it has to be by a weapon that has a greater "Concept" than it...!
Ayane: I see, now I am convinced. It stayed intact even through the effect of my Dainsleif...That is a little troublesome.
Ayane: But---that does not mean that YOU are invincible...!
Ayane: ------DAINSLEIF------!!!
However, they stand on equal footing for only a few moments in this tale.
Exploting the fact that Hagane's body can be harmed, Ayane mercilessly swings his arms down towards his body---!
Hagane: GUUUUUAAAAAA...!!!
Hagane: Hggh...HNN, GAAA, HGGH, AH, AAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAHHHHHHHHHHHHH!!!!
Even as his body begins to be covered in his own blood, Hagane still continues to protect the quivering girl behind him without flinching.
When Hagane's presence disappears, it would be appropriate to say that Kuri will disappear shortly thereafter.
In order to protect her, that's why Hagane keeps exposing himself to the rain of vermillion threads.
Ayane: Ufufu...Ahahahahahahaha!! How unfortunate---Even if your magical weapon is invincible...it appears that your body is not---!
Ayane: ......
Ayane: ------
Ayane: Why...?
Ayane: Why do you go so far to protect that child?
Hagane: ............
Ayane: That child surely does not have the ability to manipulate you any more...
Even if you are indebted to her for bringing you back, what will you accomplish by doing this---?
Ayane: You were just summoned...What reason do you have to cause yourself so much pain just to protect this child?
Ayane: ---Answer me, Todoroki Hagane!--- Why do you go so far to protect that child...?!
Hagane: ............
Hagane: Kheh...This may have already been decided...
Hagane: However---I don't care about taking a bit of damage...
Ayane: Eh...?
Hagane: I hate them. Weak people who...only bully others.
Hagane: What I do, what I see, I don't care about taking damage like this at all...
Ayane: Na---
Hagane: Whether they're an enemy or an ally, I don't care...As long as there are strong people to fight, I'll always be interested...!
Hagane: That's why it felt so great to team up with an ally that could make a fight interesting.
Hagane: If he's weak, than instead I'll protect him with my super-strong defense---
Hagane: However...All I wish is for it to be a good fight!!!
Ayane: For a reason like that------
Hagane: It doesn't matter how the fight goes...
Hagane: If a weak spot can be found little by little...Doesn't that make things fun? Huhhh?!
Hagane: Let the small things blur together! I'll forget how super-strong I am and beat the crap out of punks like you that like to bully kids...!
Hagane: Risking my life in a fight---As long as it's a worthy fight, than my soul will never be ashamed to fight!!
Ayane: ......And yet you only indulge in making noise.
Hagane: Heh...I don't give a ***. You have good eyes......Come than. I'll knock you around a bit than---Nee-chan!
Hagane: No matter how much you twist me around---I'LL SLAP YOU AROUND AND CRUSH YOU!!!!
Ayane: ...
While Hagane must be near death and can't even move a single step, his roar causes the atmosphere to quake, and gives Ayane pause.
Even though she tries to deny it, Ayane feels somewhat inspired by his desperate wishes and steps forward.
Ayane: There's no need to speak if you are only going to spout nonsense---Disappear! You ghostly relic!!
Kengo: Ku...I won't, let you...!!
However, seeing a chance, Kengo somehow forces himself to stand and binds Ayane's arms behind her back.
Kengo: Well said, Hagane...But if you do anything more unreasonable than you'll surely die...Guu...
Kengo: The two of you have to leave me...Hurry, run away! I'll hold her as long as I can...!
Ayane: Ku...! I cannot believe you still have the strength to resist...You really are persistant, Kirisaki-kun...!
Kengo: Geh...! W-What are you two doing...!
Kuri: ...
Kuri: No...
Kengo: Wha...?!
Kuri: I won't...I made a promise with Onii-chan...! I would get rid of the "Bad people" without fail...I promised him!
Kuri: Therefore, I won't give up...If this person is defeated, than Onii-chan will praise me---!
Hagane: ...Heh...I like you, young lady.
Hagane: I agree as well...If I'm going to die again, it will be right here...!
Kengo: Hagane...
Hagane: We've already died once to begin with, haven't we...?
There's no way we can run for fear of dying again, and coming back to the same battlefield would be boring.
Hagane: Even if I'm missing my soul, and nothing remains...If I can destroy my enemy by exhausting everything I have left---
Than that's what I will do!!!!!
Kengo: Haa---You really hate being bored, don't you Hagane...Fine...Let's do it than...!!
Ayane: *Gasp*
Kuri: Go...! While it will cost me the rest of my magic---I'll leave everything for you to use!!
Hagane: UUUUUUUUOOOOOOOOOOOHHHHHHHHHHH!!!!
Kengo: Truly...this is---THE END!!!
Kengo and Hagane: GRAVITON-NAEUS-----!!!!!!
Ayane: Nuh---AAAAAAAAAAAAAHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!!!!
Ayane: DAINSLEIF------!!!!!!
Ayane: Haa, haa, haa, haa------
Kuri: Ah...That's...
The attack that Kengo and Hagane put the remainder of what they had into---was however still not enough to defeat Ayane.
Ayane: ......
However, she has consumed the majority of her magic, and though she is now obsessed with killing Kuri,
she remembers to have a certain kind of respect for the two men.
However------Her flickering light is now about to be extinguished.
As compensation for backing Ayane into a corner, Kuri is unable to maintain the two men she summoned,
and they collapse to the ground and wither away.
Ayane: Finally, the noise is gone......
Kuri: ...They weren't...noise...
Kuri: From where I stand, your heart is the one full of noise...Because, you are a "Bad person"---
Kuri: Even you know what you are doing is wrong...In the depths of your heart, I understand...how irritated you are...
Ayane: ......
Kuri: That's why I...confronted you instead of that foolish human...
Kuri: To defeat you...So that everyone could smile.
Kuri: That's the future---That Onii-chan wanted...That's why.
Kuri: That's why, I......
Ayane: That is a noble aspiration. However, I have to disappoint you. I am no longer human.
Ayane: I sold my soul to the devil and swore my allegience to him as the maiden of war---All just to meet that person again...
Ayane: I will remove all obstructions, any and everyone that stands in my way.
Kuri: *Gasp*
With the maiden of war over her, for the first time since she died------Kuri remembers what "Fear" is.
Clenching her fists over her own powerlessness, she still confronts her...Seeking her ideal has led her to despair.
Kuri: ...elp me...
Ayane: With this------IT'S OVER!!!
Kuri: ...HELP ME, ONII-CHAN!!!!!!
A moment before Kuri tastes death again---The vermillion threads that race for her are torn apart by a flash of lightning.
???: Sorry, Kuri-chan. I was late------
Kuri: Ah...
"As long as I'm here, I want you to promise not to do anything dangerous, Kuri-chan."
------And she remembers the serious talk they had the last time they saw each other.
???: However------
"If it's an emergency than I want you to call me the moment things become dangerous. I'll come help you wherever you are."
However---For him, she is something precious to be protected.
Ryuichi: Just like we promised that day---I came to protect you...!
Kuri: Ryuichi...!
That's why even after the god of thunder and justice died, he came to fulfill his promise and blocks the path of the maiden of war...!
Kuri: Idiot...You were far too slow...!
Ryuichi: ...I'm sorry. However, everything is alright now...Sleep in peace, Kuri-chan.
Kuri: ...N-Nn...
Kuri: ......
Ryuichi: ------
After having been relieved upon seeing Ryuichi's face, he quietly watches as Kuri faints and falls.
Ryuichi gently catches her in his arms and carries her a short distance away before quietly laying her down.
Ayane: So you are alive...But not for long it seems.
Ryuichi: Yes. Surely it's thanks to this child's "Ability" that I was able to thus temporarily return to this world.
Ryuichi: While it's only my soul, as long as magic runs through this world, it can be manipulated...
I'm like a matchless flame, a miracle that can last for only a moment.
Ayane: ......
Ryuichi: Therefore, now that Kuri-chan has fallen unconscious...I will soon fade away as well.
Yes.
When she summoned Kengo and Hagane, Kuri had already exhausted almost all of her "Magic".
After summoning two magi, for Ryuichi to be summoned after such a ferocious battle truly is nothing short of a miracle.
Therefore...the time that Ryuichi has left is minimal at best.
Ayane: Although you went to the trouble to appear, I am afraid it was all for naught. You will not be able to protect this child, Sir Knight. Ufufu.
Ryuichi: Yes. Unfortunately, I cannot protect this child any longer...Therefore, this task...
I'll pass it to my friends.
Ayane: Your friends...? Though you may not know this, Reiji-kun is dead as well.
...And the other two people will not make it here in time.
Ayane: Therefore, give up on such a wish, and quietly-
Ryuichi: ...You're wrong. The person I wanted to ask this favor of isn't Reiji or anyone else either.
Ryuichi: Because, I don't need to leave to ask that "Someone", since she's right in front of me...President. You.
Ayane: Eh...?
For Ayane...It is far too much of a surprise.
------She cannot even begin to think of an answer.
Ryuichi: I think that Kuri-chan is finally starting to like humans...She wants to make everyone smile---
She finally became able to hold such kindness.
Ryuichi: Before I am a magi, I am still human...And for that, I'm very happy.
Ayane: ......
Ryuichi: I'm sure that in some time---I believe she will be able to make someone smile in my place. Therefore...
Ryuichi: Therefore...I ask that you protect her in my stead------I beg you, President.
Ayane: ...Do you truly think I would accept such a promise?
Ryuichi: Yes. Without a doubt.
Ayane: Na---
Ryuichi: Your nature isn't "Evil"...It's "Love". Therefore, I believe in you, President.
Ryuichi: I can't do much anymore, but my friends...I will continue to believe in them unquestioningly.
Ayane: Sumeragi-kun...You...
Ryuichi: President---About Nagisa...I'm sorry for being unable to protect your best friend.
Ryuichi: My regrets, my hopes, everything...I leave them to you, President...Therefore...
Ryuichi: Protect Kuri-chan...I beg you...
Entrusting his pure feelings when he should not have been able to anymore---Ryuichi vanishes after telling them to Ayane.
Only the victor remains standing.
Ayane: That person...really is an idiot.
Than Ayane, for her own purposes, should also obliterate the other loser, the Irregular.
Ayane: ......
Therefore.
The fact that she knows what the consequences will be for not choosing to end her life run wild in her heart.
Ayane: I really am too honest to a fault, I do not feel like doing this at all...
Once she realizes it, Ayane makes a decision that even she herself cannot believe.
Ayane: ...I can see now why Nagisa liked him so much---Even though I do not prefer childish types like him.
As her recalls the image of her best friend...Ayane's heart aches in her chest.
She now reconsiders her action to protect the mastermind who killed her...and Ayane's heart creaks terribly.
Ayane: ...I am sorry, Sumeragi-kun. But I cannot go back any longer---
Ayane: No matter what, I must win this fight---Because I decided that I would see Reiji-kun revived, without fail...!
Therefore---This is the first and only mercy she will show to an enemy.
Not as Valkyrie, but as Amamiya Ayane...She accepts his last wish, her best friend's wish.
Ayane: Kurobane-san...and, Momiji......I am sorry, but I will not allow you to stand in my way. I cannot...!
And with that, the maiden of war turns away from the fallen girl at the side of the road, and breaks into a run, headed for the target place.
To regain the person she loves...she must again become the ruthless maiden of war.
The flame that burns quietly in her chest---it's color is jet black.
