The Reunion With Twelve Fascinating Goddesses - LightNovelsOnl.com
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This happened in the past.
It’s a page------of an ended story.
“So you’re here, Tooi.”
In a small castle standing on a slightly elevated hill-----the Shrine of [Violent Wind].
A male and female was standing on the highest balcony that allows the full view of the surroundings.
One of them was a young man with a calm face----Tooi Cross.
The other person was the beautiful deity who went there because she was worried about him----Ryura Vega. While pressing down her silver hair which was fluttering about by the soft wind, she talked to Tooi.
“I was looking for you, sheesh. We finally got back to my [House] but, you’re wandering around on your own…………”
Tooi [Sorry] lightly apologized towards Ryura who was puffing her cheeks out.
“What are you doing?”
“A little something, I was looking at the scenery.”
“Scenery, you say?”
“Un. I enjoy looking at the scenery from here.”
Urged by Tooi, Ryura moved her sights too.
What unfolded in front of her eyes-------was a wide and grand land. Showered with sunlight from the sky, the vegetation, river, lake, plainly everything was glowing.
“That’s true, it’s beautiful.”
“Ryura’s more beautiful though.”
“…….Eh?”
“………………..”
“………..E-err.”
“…………….Give me a sec, sorry, forget that!”
When Ryura was having problems responding, Tooi carried his head and crouched down.
“No no, you’re mistaken Ryura! In my world, that line is basically an iron rule for this kind of situation……….but, I understood it once I said it myself……….It’s kind of tough, or just lame so……..UAaAAaaa”
In response to Tooi’s groaning, Ryura was shocked at first but she started bursting in laughter soon later.
“Ufufu. Ahaha. Thank you very much, Tooi. I am very happy you praised me.”
When Ryura was expressing her happiness, Tooi scratched his cheeks embarra.s.singly.
At that time-------a breeze pa.s.sed by. The gentle breeze tickling his cheeks was filled with the scent of the flowers and forest.
“As expected from the Shrine of [Violent Wind], that sure was a nice breeze.”
“The wind blowing here, and the view you see here, all belongs to you Tooi.”
Ryura said that.
“Only people who conquered my Shrine----basically, the people I recognized, is able to come to this place. Which means, you’re the first visitor to come to this place aside from me.”
“I see. Ryura has not made any contract with others before except for me.”
“Yes. Tooi, is my fist male. Tooi’s the first person who took my first.”
“…………That sentence is going to bring so much misunderstandings.”
“Well, I am the one who took Tooi’s first anyway.”
“Like I said, that’s going to bring in misunderstandings.”
“But even so………..oh Tooi, don’t you think you’ve been ignoring me recently?”
Ryura joined her hands behind her and showed an obvious sulky att.i.tude.
“No, no way, even if you call me someone that would pick up girls every time we reach our destination……….”
“So the Tooi Harem is still expanding huh.”
“Don’t call it a harem……….”
“Because of that, I feel that Tooi’s been acting cold towards me. I feel that you have been focusing on the new characters. Is that it? Do you have some kind of rule to not feed the fishes you caught?”
“I-it’s not like I am trying to…………”
Tooi got fl.u.s.tered from being stared at. After getting satisfied by that fl.u.s.tered scene, Ryura spilled a giggle.
“Fufu, it’s just a joke. I know full well that, we still need more power to defeat the [Demon King], and Tooi is working hard to complete our newly joined comrade’s [Deus AlmaDeity Equipment]”
“Ryura………..”
“You praised me with a [Beautiful] just now. That’s enough. I can eat 3x more now.”
Ryura said that happily. Tooi scratched his head because it was embarra.s.sing but, he soon looked at Ryura with a serious gaze.
“Thanks.”
He thanked her straightforwardly.
“You brought me here for a change of pace because I have been thinking hard recently right?”
*Gulp* Ryura’s expression tensed up.
“………….I-I wonder what you are talking about. I just wanted to come back to my castle since it’s been a long time. Y-yes, it’s homesick.”
Since it’s embarra.s.sing that her plan was seen through, she averted her sights away by reflex. However, Tooi looked over to her with a straightforward gaze.
“I’m glad you made a contract with me.”
There’s no decorations in his words, it was just plain straightforward appreciation, respect and affection.
A hot emotion swelled up in Ryura’s chest. Having spent time lonely deep inside her Shrine for eternity and not exchanging any contracts with any humans before, this emotion was a first for her.
Being recognized by her master.
Being wanted by her master.
Being pinpointed out by her master.
Falling for her master.
She never would have imagined that she would feel this happy, comfortable and sweet.
The wind came by again.
The wind carrying the scent of flowers pa.s.sed by them and shook the scenery seen from the balcony. The scene of the vegetation swaying and forest rustling looks like the earth was laughing and dancing.
“It’s beautiful.”
“Which one?”
After Ryura asked with a teasing smile, Tooi scratched his head because of the slight embarra.s.sment while, answering her with a wry smile.
“Both”
This was in the past.
This was an event that occurred 10 years ago to Ryura Vega.
It’s a single glowing gold page that can never be returned again.
Part 2
*Crisp crisp*. Countless ero magazines and Adult Videos were thrown into the incinerator.
It got annoying half-way so; Tooi turned the carry case around and flipped the inside. His precious collection that took him many years to collect was surging into the ash.
(I never would have thought that I would part with you guys again………Kuh……….)
Getting rid of his approaching lingering affections, Tooi continued disposing his collection. After finis.h.i.+ng a fully awkward breakfast with Laila and Alua, Tooi immediately headed to the incinerator behind the mansion. In order to completely dispose the goods he brought over by mistake. “Aaaah………now I’ve done it.” Endless regrets attacked Tooi. Getting destroyed by Laila’s teasing and being looked at by Alua with a gaze of scorn was tough but------the most important mistake was losing all the modern age items he prepared. The number of goods that he planned for fully use in this world probably turned into dust a long time ago at the garbage incinerator plant at the other world. He made a deep sigh and drooped his shoulders-----but, after 10 seconds. “Well, I guess what’s done is done.” Tooi looked up after getting rid of his regrets. “Nebulosa12 G.o.ddesses said this [Hobbies are shallow but wide, and regrets are deep but short]. I can’t do anything if I keep feeling down. Yeah, it’s important to switch gear as if nothing happened.” “…………….” “Forget that, rather, this might be the best choice.” “…………..…” “A Smartphone even after coming to another world……..as expected, it’s kind of lame now that I think about it. Recently, everyone’s been stuck with their own smartphones. Smartphone in the train, smartphone while walking, smartphone when eating. It’s kind of turned into a lonely world huh, was what I gradually thought. I don’t want to be a slave of the smartphone even after coming to another world. Yup, this is good this is good. This is the best choice.” “…………….who are you making excuses for?” A cold retort entered. Accompanying him with the intentions to give him a lecture on how to use the incinerator, Alua mumbled coldly behind him. He’s extremely glad that she finally opened her mouth since she was ignoring him the whole time during breakfast but, those eyes of scorn was still rooted into her eyes. “Is it, really okay to dump your Ero magazines? Tooi Onii-chan? It should be quite important since you brought it all the way here right?” Where has that respectful tone and gaze? She said that with an oddly grudge filled tone. Apparently she’s completely disappointed. “Alua-chan…………..like I said, I explained this many times already but, I brought the wrong bag…………” “If that is the truth after we take 100 steps back……..I-it’s still fact that those ero magazines all belong to Tooi Onii-chan!” “……………..” No reply could be made after she told him that. Complete checkmate. In a sense, it’s kind of a crime. “T-to possess such perverted books…………I can’t believe this! How dirty!” “………..Don’t call me dirty. It hurts. Even I’m a healthy male in my 10’s. it’s natural to have interest on the opposite s.e.x.” “I understand that……….but, the problem is the quant.i.ty, the quant.i.ty! What’s with this laughable quant.i.ty!? Even the incinerator is about to fill up!” “No, how should I say this……………in my world, there’s a huge expansion in circulation and trading routes so, it’s really easy to get a hold on them. I keep on finding ones that fit my preference so, I just can’t help collecting it………..” “Then in Tooi Onii-chan’s world……..a-all the males there, possess this many perverted books with them…….!?” “Y-yeah!” The man who sold his hometown, world to save himself, that’s Tooi Cross. Alua made a shocked expression. “………Wha-wha-wha-what a terrifying world……….” “W-well………..whatever the reason Alua-chan. There are 1 or 2 things that everyone doesn’t want to show……no, 10 or 20 right? Even you have things like that right?” “Wha-wha-wha-what are you saying! I-I don’t have, any of that sorts! Yes, none what so ever!” Yup you have them, Tooi thought. “O-okay Tooi Onii-chan! Nothing will be accomplished after talking so, let’s continues our work!” Alua switched the conversation since it got tough for her. Since Tooi wants to switch the conversation too, both of them returned to their work. Lastly, he took out the Zippo from his pocket and lit it; once that metal lid closes, the incinerating work will be done. “Oil lighter……….?” Alua looked at his hands and asked. “Tooi Onii-chan, do you smoke?” “No, I don’t smoke. I’m still underage……..wait, that law does not apply in this country.” In Arludea Empire, 16 year old are treated as adults. On top of that, in relation to alcohol and smoking, it’s not like there is a law set as strict as the law in modern j.a.pan. That’s why; the 17 year old Tooi smoking in this country isn’t going to cause any problem at all------ “Well, I don’t plan on using it from now on.” Tooi said that. “This is a memento of my grandma.” He played with the Zippo with one hand. It’s commonly known as a Zippo technique. Rotating the Zippo between the tip of the fingers and by spinning the Zippo several times by using the hinge of the opened lid as the reference point, the flint will be scratched causing the flame to be produced. “Uwa, amazing.” “Maybe it’s a withdrawal symptom caused by no smoking, my grandma was hooked with hand tricks. I’ve been looking at it this whole time so, I kind of remembered it. I can do this too, take a look.” “Eh? Eeh? Wh-what’s up with that? D-do it one more time but slower.” “Slower……….now that’s going to be tough in its own way.” While making things lively with his Zippo techniques, both of them left the incinerator. Right in the middle of heading to the front gate from the back garden of the mansion, “Now that I think back, hey Alua-chan.” While closing the zippo, he started talking. “Several people from the military came over just now so, what’s up?” “It’s Captain Duffman and his subordinates. Currently, he is taking command of [Ryura Vega]’s suppression team and is most likely here to report yesterday’s results.” “Aah, the captain of the troops I saw yesterday.” Reporting about the war, though she said that, it’s most likely going to be a sad one. Judging by the forces he saw yesterday, there’s no way that’s enough to do anything to Ryura. “But, Duffman, duffman………where did I hear that from…….” “Captain Duffman is previously Laila Onee-chan’s superior.” “Aah! I remember now! It’s that old man with the beard!” He has not met him directly but, he has seen him from afar when Laila was talking to him. He is a well built man in his prime with a beard that does not match him. He was somewhat strict on Laila because he did not find it interesting that Laila was standing out a lot when she was that young. “Wait a sec? But, If Laila is a major general and Duffman is a captain then………..oh man, his ranks has been crossed over by a lot. 10 years sure is scary. Rather, Laila, d.a.m.n you’re scary.” “Shhhh! Shhhh! Do-don’t do that, Tooi Onii-chan! Captain Duffman is really sensitive with that!” Alua made a commotion in panic. Being successful in the Empire Military, can be said from [Birthplace] and [Deeds]. Having the [Birthplace] of the Schut house which was been producing high officials every generation. And, the [Deed] of taking a part in the Demon King Suppression with the [Tyrant Slayer] under her command. In a sense, it’s only natural for Laila to burst through the elite highway since she has both but, for someone close to see that, it’s something not to be endured. “…………Incidentally, Tooi Onii-chan said [Bearded old man] but, currently, Captain Duffman shaved off every part of his old beard……..” “Heeeh. He finally noticed that it doesn’t suit him?” “No……..the moment Onee-chan went one rank higher than Captain Duffman, she ordered him to [This is a superior's order, shave off that irritating beard] as if to clear off her pent up anger.” “…………..She’s making enemies at all sides huh, that woman.” While having that conversation, both of them reached the front and---- “d.a.m.n! That d.a.m.n fox woman…….! Who does she think is the one fighting that monster……..! Forgetting all the favors I provided her before……….!” The same time the door slammed open, curse words started popping out. The ones who appeared from the mansion, was a really buffed military personal and 2 military personals trying to calm him down. Tooi remembers the man clearly in rage. (Uooo, he got old, that uncle Duffman. And, he seriously lost his beard) The man previous at the age of his prime, has turned into a middle-aged man after 10 years. After getting shocked leisurely, it seems that they were noticed too. “Hn. If I’m correct, you’re?” “Captain Duffman, it has been a long time!” When the angry man----Duffman looked over, Alua fixed her posture and lowered her head. “Aah, the sister of Major General Schut. We have not met since the graduation party of the military academy.” Anger disappeared from Duffman’s expression, and he made a social smile. “Seriously, hats off to all the excellent daughters of the Schut house. Both sisters are top students of the national military academy and has been producing brilliant achievements, which are rare in recent years.” “Yes. Thank you very much.” “However, Major General Schut has shown many achievements right after her graduation. Gaining exploits after standing on the battlefield on her own initiatives and, gaining results in the research field. Even in the [Demon King Suppression] from 10 years ago, the deed she established is huge. But well, although she’s gifted with a special talent, you are still quite amazing. Don’t worry about it.” “Y-yes…………” “It’s tough for you right? Being compared to such an excellent sister.” That social smile was slowly colored with scorn. “Well, err…….how should I say this. In regards to feminine, I feel sorry for comparing you with that sister but, don’t worry about it. Major General Schut, is gifted in that part too.” Right after, laughter occurred between Duffman’s subordinate. Having felt indecent gazes, Alua quickly covered her chest with both her hands. Both her cheeks were blus.h.i.+ng and her shoulders were trembling from embarra.s.sment and anger. However, since he’s her superior, she had nothing to say back. She looked down, clenched her teeth and desperately withstanding the insults. This kind of teasing is a daily thing within the military. Things won’t go smoothly if she can’t easily let one joke pa.s.s. However. There was one man at this spot that didn’t care about such military rule and culture. “-----Hey Old man. Mind shutting up?” His cold voice was mostly likely filled with astonishment. The moment that halt echoed, those filthy laughter stopped. All three of the military personal focused their sights at Tooi but, he continued his words indifferently. “There’s a limit on how little to no delicacy you have for talking about a female’s chest.” “…………….” He felt that Alua standing beside him looked at him with a [You don’t have the right to say that!] but, Tooi decided to ignore it. “I don’t care if you’re a captain or whatever but in my country, you’re sure going to be getting a salary cut after that s.e.xual hara.s.sment. If you slip up, it’s going to be a disciplinary discharge you know? Do those old man jokes at a snack bar at the outskirts.” “……What’s with you?” Duffman’s expression changed into a stern one and glared at him with a gaze filled with anger. He’s trying in his own way to overwhelm him. But----it wasn’t enough. Guts, spirit, glare; every one of those aspect of it was overwhelmingly insufficient to make Tooi back down. From his viewpoint after competing against warriors, Deities and the [Demon King] 1 year ago, Captain Duffman’s pressure brings nothing but sleepiness to him. “A traveler from another country huh. I’m a freeloader of this mansion.” “So it’s just a mere freeloader trying to oppose me huh. Do you know who I am?” “Yup. I know you. You’re still holding a grudge against your subordinate that got promoted over you within little time, and since you can’t do anything to the actual person, you’re refres.h.i.+ng your own superiority by s.e.xually hara.s.sing the sister instead; I am fully aware that you’re a pathetic old man.” “………! Yo-you b.a.s.t.a.r.d!” The enraged Duffman extended his hand to the saber under his arm. He attempted to pull out his sword from the anger-----but a moment faster than him, the hilt of was pressed down. “--------Give up on that” Shock and amazement filled the area. Tooi, who’s supposed to be beside Alua, approached Duffman before anyone noticed and was pressing the end of the sword hilt with his palm. It was an instantaneous move. There’s no one at that place that saw Tooi’s movements. Everyone was popping their eyes out blankly. Within them Tooi told him with a tone that can be taken as cool-headed. “As a captain, you won’t be even reach major general even if you have a 2 rank promotion by dying in duty you know?” Receiving a [Warning] at close distance Duffman’s expression looked as if he was poured with cold water. He jumped back and took distance from Tooi. “Guh. W-why you………..making fun of me…………” He was giving a demonic glare but, he’s getting cold feet. He was bewildered by Tooi’s words and actions so it’s clear that he’s being cautious. Then, the 2 subordinates standing behind him, “C-captain Duffman, if you cause trouble at the mansion’s front door any more than this, there’s a chance that Major General Schut might come out…….” “That’s right. Let’s ignore this nonsensical brat.” And, Duffman raised his voice. “………..Fuun. That’s true. I don’t gain anything from taking on this runt.” After leaving that sentence, Duffman and his group left the Schut house. Right when they could no longer be seen, “…….Puhah” Tooi let out a big sigh. It’s a sigh of relief. “Ahh, I was so nervous, aah, that was close…………” After he wiped off the sweat coming out from his forehead, Alua asked him in wonder. “Was it close……why?” “Unn, it was actually pretty bad. I was sure to lose if he got serious.” That exchange just now-----was all Tooi’s ploy. It might be okay if its 1 year ago but, Tooi currently has no contracted deities and no weapon. If he was made to fight, he will probably be taken out before even the fight started. That’s why to trick him; he produced the aura of an overwhelming strong man by talking smack, and the only thing left was his body movements. “But…….what’s with that move just now? It’s like you instantaneously teleported…….” “Aah, that, that’s footwork Zesca taught me. By borrowing the primitive Spirits dwelling in the earth, you then create a flow of Ether under the foot and------“ “Zesca………..when you said Zesca, you mean THE Zesca!?” Alua excitedly shouted. A member of the Nebulosa12 G.o.ddesses. The deity [War empress]------Zesca Aldebaran. “Zesca is a weapon maniac and martial arts maniac. She said [I can’t stand having a novice swinging the weapons I created] before, slamming sword skills, body movements, basically every martial arts into me thoroughly. Inside s.h.i.+’s Shrine by the way.” “s.h.i.+……..You mean the shrine of [Time & s.p.a.ce] right?” “Yup. Over there, the flow of time and s.p.a.ce is fundamentally distorted; it’s a place where 1 day pa.s.ses in 1 second or, in an opposite way 1 month pa.s.ses by in 1 day. By using that, I have enough time to train.” For that part of modern j.a.panese to understand here’s an easy example, it’s a place similar to [Time and mental room] and Tooi’s training acc.u.mulated there. Thanks to that, Tooi can manage off as a 17 year old currently but, if it’s about body age then even he is not very sure about that. “Even when I went back to my own world, I kept practicing so I won’t lose touch. Most likely, my body’s reflexes aren’t that different from before.” 1 year ago, even when he went back to j.a.pan, Tooi continued practicing the training routine he learned from Zesca. While taking care of his grandmother, he had not missed a single day of training. There’s a limit on what he can do in a world without Spirits but even so, that limit was enough to hurt his body. Even though the demon king was already destroyed and there’s no enemy he needs to defeat in his own world. Even he’s not sure why. Most likely----it’s lingering attachment. There’s an irreparable lingering attachment in this world which he had said farewell to. “B-but……….that was going too far, Tooi Onii-chan.” Alua made an extremely tired expression. “You were so rude to Captain Duffman……..I, I thought my heart was going to stop.” “Sorry sorry. But, I just couldn’t forgive him.” “Tooi Onii-chan………….” “I’m the only person in this world that is allowed to play with the happiness and sadness of the Schut sister’s breast difference.” “Who made that rule!” A few hours later, it was lunch time. A long table was placed in the middle of the dining room and the owner of the mansion, Laila was sitting at the edge. Tooi and Alua were surrounding the table by sitting on both of that side. While using the corners of the dining table which could easily fit 10 people, the 3 of them had their lunch. “No one? Really?” After Tooi asked, Laila nodded without stopping both her knife and fork. “Yeah, 0. The number of death and wounded in the suppression team led by Captain Duffman during yesterday’s fight in the Fior Region, is 0.” Just like what Tooi predicted, it’s the suppression team that lost. They could not suppress or repel Ryura Vega and retreated instead. Currently, other than Captain Duffman and his vice captains who came back to report about the war, they are all stationed at a nearby city. “….That’s weird. It’s weird that there are no fatalities when fighting with that Ryura. If Ryura is serious, she is able to destroy that small troop in an instant.” “Basically, it means she wasn’t [Serious].” Laila said that. “Ryura Vega was completely moving in defense. She would not move to harm our soldiers and once we withdraw, she would not pursue after.” “But………..with that number fighting, and 0 deaths; that’s normally impossible.” Death fills the battlefield. The more the people, the higher the danger of death proportionally increases. In the battlefield with over a 100 soldiers running about, the battle ended without any deaths at all------normally that’s something impossible. “So that means.” “Yeah. That’s what it means.” “Eh? Eh? What’s what? Don’t go agreeing between yourselves” After Tooi and Laila nodded at each other, a grief filled voice came from the sides. “Basically, Ryura was protecting them, Alua-chan.” “Protecting?” “She can freely control the wind after all. It’s like, she can make a wind barrier and block all the attacks” With the power of the [Violent Wind], controlling the death count on the battlefield is easy. For her, who’s able to put the whole atmosphere under her control, it’s possible to destroy the danger of death sleeping in the battlefield. (I knew it, it looks like she has no intention on hurting humans) They may be enemies but, she does not like killing in vain. The Ryura Tooi knows is that kind of Deity. But----that’s the reason why he’s curious about it. (It’s clear that she has no intentions to fight the Empire. But why, why is she fixed of that place…….?) Those sad eyes resurfaced in his mind again. When Tooi was wondering, Alua let out her voice of admiration. “Deities are amazing as expected. They not only can overwhelm their opponents, but also the power to freely control the opponent’s injuries too…….I knew it, they are on a whole other level compared to us humans and other Spirits……..” “But, there’s an idiot that does not know of the level of difference.” Laila made a fed up expression and spat those words. “Captain Duffman pleasantly misunderstood that it’s thanks to his instructions that there are no casualties. The report just now is mostly bragging. Even though he’s useless, he was desperately trying to make his appeal; it was troubling.” Those words were merciless in response to her previous superior. “What’s more of a headache, by using [0 deaths] as a s.h.i.+eld; he requested an increase of soldiers. He said that the next time will be a success if the number of soldiers increased.” “Did you give a yes?” “Heck no. The situation won’t change even after a little increase of soldiers. Captain Duffman most likely knows that too. By increasing the number of soldiers standing on the front lines, he has an ulterior motive to make them to secure his safety.” “………He had no intentions of winning from the start huh. Well, it’s only normal since the opponent is a deity.” “We might be able to put up a fight if I invite a general cla.s.s Spirit knight to make one division but, I just can’t split our forces that much as expected. But……..actually, our situation is slowly turning into one that won’t allow me to say that any longer.” Laila’s expression was oozing with bitterness. “Recently, messengers from the Lectar Republic have been coming to check on the battle situation. If they found out that there’s no results at all……………..they will most probably request for an increase of soldiers.” Getting a request from her subordinates is one thing but, she can’t reject the request from Lectar since they are business partners. And what’s more, the Empire had created a debt because of the problem in Fior region. However, adding about 100 personals won’t mean anything; although with that said, if 1000 people attended then other places will be lacking personals this time. “But Laila. Is lacking in personals that big of a deal? The [Demon King] was destroyed already right?” “Fuun. It’s because the [Demon King] is destroyed that the opponent this time is humans. Various countries formed an alliance to become a giant rock when there was a giant enemy but, now that the [Demon King] is dead; the situation became critical on the East, South, West, North.” “Fuuun. This is a problem.” “Don’t make it sound like it’s someone else problem. Don’t forget that the problems related to the Nebulosa12 G.o.ddesses also play a part in increasing work for the Empire.” Having being told strictly, Tooi made a small shrug with his head. “No matter; I don’t need to think about this if you and Alua quickly finish solving the Ryura Vega problem. Did you think of any plan?” “…………….I’ve been thinking a lot but, it’s a day after yesterday after all. I still have nothing.” “I see” Tooi was dumbfounded when Laila nodded easily. (…………..This is weird. If I said [Haven’t thought of anything] to the Laila I knew, she would start launching sarcasms like an avalanche) Is this the real Laila? Did she eat something weird? Tooi was suspicious but-----he immediately found out that this is the one and only Laila. “Well then, once you’re done eating, get prepared for going out. Tooi, Alua. I want you all to meet someone.” “Meet someone?” “Us…….? Who is it Onee-chan?” After they asked, Laila smiled like a child who came up with something mischievous. “A member of the Nebulosa12 G.o.ddesses, the Deity of [Time & s.p.a.ce]-----La s.h.i.+ Fomalhaut.”
Getting rid of his approaching lingering affections, Tooi continued disposing his collection. After finis.h.i.+ng a fully awkward breakfast with Laila and Alua, Tooi immediately headed to the incinerator behind the mansion. In order to completely dispose the goods he brought over by mistake. “Aaaah………now I’ve done it.” Endless regrets attacked Tooi. Getting destroyed by Laila’s teasing and being looked at by Alua with a gaze of scorn was tough but------the most important mistake was losing all the modern age items he prepared. The number of goods that he planned for fully use in this world probably turned into dust a long time ago at the garbage incinerator plant at the other world. He made a deep sigh and drooped his shoulders-----but, after 10 seconds. “Well, I guess what’s done is done.” Tooi looked up after getting rid of his regrets. “Nebulosa12 G.o.ddesses said this [Hobbies are shallow but wide, and regrets are deep but short]. I can’t do anything if I keep feeling down. Yeah, it’s important to switch gear as if nothing happened.” “…………….” “Forget that, rather, this might be the best choice.” “…………..…” “A Smartphone even after coming to another world……..as expected, it’s kind of lame now that I think about it. Recently, everyone’s been stuck with their own smartphones. Smartphone in the train, smartphone while walking, smartphone when eating. It’s kind of turned into a lonely world huh, was what I gradually thought. I don’t want to be a slave of the smartphone even after coming to another world. Yup, this is good this is good. This is the best choice.” “…………….who are you making excuses for?” A cold retort entered. Accompanying him with the intentions to give him a lecture on how to use the incinerator, Alua mumbled coldly behind him. He’s extremely glad that she finally opened her mouth since she was ignoring him the whole time during breakfast but, those eyes of scorn was still rooted into her eyes. “Is it, really okay to dump your Ero magazines? Tooi Onii-chan? It should be quite important since you brought it all the way here right?” Where has that respectful tone and gaze? She said that with an oddly grudge filled tone. Apparently she’s completely disappointed. “Alua-chan…………..like I said, I explained this many times already but, I brought the wrong bag…………” “If that is the truth after we take 100 steps back……..I-it’s still fact that those ero magazines all belong to Tooi Onii-chan!” “……………..” No reply could be made after she told him that. Complete checkmate. In a sense, it’s kind of a crime. “T-to possess such perverted books…………I can’t believe this! How dirty!” “………..Don’t call me dirty. It hurts. Even I’m a healthy male in my 10’s. it’s natural to have interest on the opposite s.e.x.” “I understand that……….but, the problem is the quant.i.ty, the quant.i.ty! What’s with this laughable quant.i.ty!? Even the incinerator is about to fill up!” “No, how should I say this……………in my world, there’s a huge expansion in circulation and trading routes so, it’s really easy to get a hold on them. I keep on finding ones that fit my preference so, I just can’t help collecting it………..” “Then in Tooi Onii-chan’s world……..a-all the males there, possess this many perverted books with them…….!?” “Y-yeah!” The man who sold his hometown, world to save himself, that’s Tooi Cross. Alua made a shocked expression. “………Wha-wha-wha-what a terrifying world……….” “W-well………..whatever the reason Alua-chan. There are 1 or 2 things that everyone doesn’t want to show……no, 10 or 20 right? Even you have things like that right?” “Wha-wha-wha-what are you saying! I-I don’t have, any of that sorts! Yes, none what so ever!” Yup you have them, Tooi thought. “O-okay Tooi Onii-chan! Nothing will be accomplished after talking so, let’s continues our work!” Alua switched the conversation since it got tough for her. Since Tooi wants to switch the conversation too, both of them returned to their work. Lastly, he took out the Zippo from his pocket and lit it; once that metal lid closes, the incinerating work will be done. “Oil lighter……….?” Alua looked at his hands and asked. “Tooi Onii-chan, do you smoke?” “No, I don’t smoke. I’m still underage……..wait, that law does not apply in this country.” In Arludea Empire, 16 year old are treated as adults. On top of that, in relation to alcohol and smoking, it’s not like there is a law set as strict as the law in modern j.a.pan. That’s why; the 17 year old Tooi smoking in this country isn’t going to cause any problem at all------ “Well, I don’t plan on using it from now on.” Tooi said that. “This is a memento of my grandma.” He played with the Zippo with one hand. It’s commonly known as a Zippo technique. Rotating the Zippo between the tip of the fingers and by spinning the Zippo several times by using the hinge of the opened lid as the reference point, the flint will be scratched causing the flame to be produced. “Uwa, amazing.” “Maybe it’s a withdrawal symptom caused by no smoking, my grandma was hooked with hand tricks. I’ve been looking at it this whole time so, I kind of remembered it. I can do this too, take a look.” “Eh? Eeh? Wh-what’s up with that? D-do it one more time but slower.” “Slower……….now that’s going to be tough in its own way.” While making things lively with his Zippo techniques, both of them left the incinerator. Right in the middle of heading to the front gate from the back garden of the mansion, “Now that I think back, hey Alua-chan.” While closing the zippo, he started talking. “Several people from the military came over just now so, what’s up?” “It’s Captain Duffman and his subordinates. Currently, he is taking command of [Ryura Vega]’s suppression team and is most likely here to report yesterday’s results.” “Aah, the captain of the troops I saw yesterday.” Reporting about the war, though she said that, it’s most likely going to be a sad one. Judging by the forces he saw yesterday, there’s no way that’s enough to do anything to Ryura. “But, Duffman, duffman………where did I hear that from…….” “Captain Duffman is previously Laila Onee-chan’s superior.” “Aah! I remember now! It’s that old man with the beard!” He has not met him directly but, he has seen him from afar when Laila was talking to him. He is a well built man in his prime with a beard that does not match him. He was somewhat strict on Laila because he did not find it interesting that Laila was standing out a lot when she was that young. “Wait a sec? But, If Laila is a major general and Duffman is a captain then………..oh man, his ranks has been crossed over by a lot. 10 years sure is scary. Rather, Laila, d.a.m.n you’re scary.” “Shhhh! Shhhh! Do-don’t do that, Tooi Onii-chan! Captain Duffman is really sensitive with that!” Alua made a commotion in panic. Being successful in the Empire Military, can be said from [Birthplace] and [Deeds]. Having the [Birthplace] of the Schut house which was been producing high officials every generation. And, the [Deed] of taking a part in the Demon King Suppression with the [Tyrant Slayer] under her command. In a sense, it’s only natural for Laila to burst through the elite highway since she has both but, for someone close to see that, it’s something not to be endured. “…………Incidentally, Tooi Onii-chan said [Bearded old man] but, currently, Captain Duffman shaved off every part of his old beard……..” “Heeeh. He finally noticed that it doesn’t suit him?” “No……..the moment Onee-chan went one rank higher than Captain Duffman, she ordered him to [This is a superior's order, shave off that irritating beard] as if to clear off her pent up anger.” “…………..She’s making enemies at all sides huh, that woman.” While having that conversation, both of them reached the front and---- “d.a.m.n! That d.a.m.n fox woman…….! Who does she think is the one fighting that monster……..! Forgetting all the favors I provided her before……….!” The same time the door slammed open, curse words started popping out. The ones who appeared from the mansion, was a really buffed military personal and 2 military personals trying to calm him down. Tooi remembers the man clearly in rage. (Uooo, he got old, that uncle Duffman. And, he seriously lost his beard) The man previous at the age of his prime, has turned into a middle-aged man after 10 years. After getting shocked leisurely, it seems that they were noticed too. “Hn. If I’m correct, you’re?” “Captain Duffman, it has been a long time!” When the angry man----Duffman looked over, Alua fixed her posture and lowered her head. “Aah, the sister of Major General Schut. We have not met since the graduation party of the military academy.” Anger disappeared from Duffman’s expression, and he made a social smile. “Seriously, hats off to all the excellent daughters of the Schut house. Both sisters are top students of the national military academy and has been producing brilliant achievements, which are rare in recent years.” “Yes. Thank you very much.” “However, Major General Schut has shown many achievements right after her graduation. Gaining exploits after standing on the battlefield on her own initiatives and, gaining results in the research field. Even in the [Demon King Suppression] from 10 years ago, the deed she established is huge. But well, although she’s gifted with a special talent, you are still quite amazing. Don’t worry about it.” “Y-yes…………” “It’s tough for you right? Being compared to such an excellent sister.” That social smile was slowly colored with scorn. “Well, err…….how should I say this. In regards to feminine, I feel sorry for comparing you with that sister but, don’t worry about it. Major General Schut, is gifted in that part too.” Right after, laughter occurred between Duffman’s subordinate. Having felt indecent gazes, Alua quickly covered her chest with both her hands. Both her cheeks were blus.h.i.+ng and her shoulders were trembling from embarra.s.sment and anger. However, since he’s her superior, she had nothing to say back. She looked down, clenched her teeth and desperately withstanding the insults. This kind of teasing is a daily thing within the military. Things won’t go smoothly if she can’t easily let one joke pa.s.s. However. There was one man at this spot that didn’t care about such military rule and culture. “-----Hey Old man. Mind shutting up?” His cold voice was mostly likely filled with astonishment. The moment that halt echoed, those filthy laughter stopped. All three of the military personal focused their sights at Tooi but, he continued his words indifferently. “There’s a limit on how little to no delicacy you have for talking about a female’s chest.” “…………….” He felt that Alua standing beside him looked at him with a [You don’t have the right to say that!] but, Tooi decided to ignore it. “I don’t care if you’re a captain or whatever but in my country, you’re sure going to be getting a salary cut after that s.e.xual hara.s.sment. If you slip up, it’s going to be a disciplinary discharge you know? Do those old man jokes at a snack bar at the outskirts.” “……What’s with you?” Duffman’s expression changed into a stern one and glared at him with a gaze filled with anger. He’s trying in his own way to overwhelm him. But----it wasn’t enough. Guts, spirit, glare; every one of those aspect of it was overwhelmingly insufficient to make Tooi back down. From his viewpoint after competing against warriors, Deities and the [Demon King] 1 year ago, Captain Duffman’s pressure brings nothing but sleepiness to him. “A traveler from another country huh. I’m a freeloader of this mansion.” “So it’s just a mere freeloader trying to oppose me huh. Do you know who I am?” “Yup. I know you. You’re still holding a grudge against your subordinate that got promoted over you within little time, and since you can’t do anything to the actual person, you’re refres.h.i.+ng your own superiority by s.e.xually hara.s.sing the sister instead; I am fully aware that you’re a pathetic old man.” “………! Yo-you b.a.s.t.a.r.d!” The enraged Duffman extended his hand to the saber under his arm. He attempted to pull out his sword from the anger-----but a moment faster than him, the hilt of was pressed down. “--------Give up on that” Shock and amazement filled the area. Tooi, who’s supposed to be beside Alua, approached Duffman before anyone noticed and was pressing the end of the sword hilt with his palm. It was an instantaneous move. There’s no one at that place that saw Tooi’s movements. Everyone was popping their eyes out blankly. Within them Tooi told him with a tone that can be taken as cool-headed. “As a captain, you won’t be even reach major general even if you have a 2 rank promotion by dying in duty you know?” Receiving a [Warning] at close distance Duffman’s expression looked as if he was poured with cold water. He jumped back and took distance from Tooi. “Guh. W-why you………..making fun of me…………” He was giving a demonic glare but, he’s getting cold feet. He was bewildered by Tooi’s words and actions so it’s clear that he’s being cautious. Then, the 2 subordinates standing behind him, “C-captain Duffman, if you cause trouble at the mansion’s front door any more than this, there’s a chance that Major General Schut might come out…….” “That’s right. Let’s ignore this nonsensical brat.” And, Duffman raised his voice. “………..Fuun. That’s true. I don’t gain anything from taking on this runt.” After leaving that sentence, Duffman and his group left the Schut house. Right when they could no longer be seen, “…….Puhah” Tooi let out a big sigh. It’s a sigh of relief. “Ahh, I was so nervous, aah, that was close…………” After he wiped off the sweat coming out from his forehead, Alua asked him in wonder. “Was it close……why?” “Unn, it was actually pretty bad. I was sure to lose if he got serious.” That exchange just now-----was all Tooi’s ploy. It might be okay if its 1 year ago but, Tooi currently has no contracted deities and no weapon. If he was made to fight, he will probably be taken out before even the fight started. That’s why to trick him; he produced the aura of an overwhelming strong man by talking smack, and the only thing left was his body movements. “But…….what’s with that move just now? It’s like you instantaneously teleported…….” “Aah, that, that’s footwork Zesca taught me. By borrowing the primitive Spirits dwelling in the earth, you then create a flow of Ether under the foot and------“ “Zesca………..when you said Zesca, you mean THE Zesca!?” Alua excitedly shouted. A member of the Nebulosa12 G.o.ddesses. The deity [War empress]------Zesca Aldebaran. “Zesca is a weapon maniac and martial arts maniac. She said [I can’t stand having a novice swinging the weapons I created] before, slamming sword skills, body movements, basically every martial arts into me thoroughly. Inside s.h.i.+’s Shrine by the way.” “s.h.i.+……..You mean the shrine of [Time & s.p.a.ce] right?” “Yup. Over there, the flow of time and s.p.a.ce is fundamentally distorted; it’s a place where 1 day pa.s.ses in 1 second or, in an opposite way 1 month pa.s.ses by in 1 day. By using that, I have enough time to train.” For that part of modern j.a.panese to understand here’s an easy example, it’s a place similar to [Time and mental room] and Tooi’s training acc.u.mulated there. Thanks to that, Tooi can manage off as a 17 year old currently but, if it’s about body age then even he is not very sure about that. “Even when I went back to my own world, I kept practicing so I won’t lose touch. Most likely, my body’s reflexes aren’t that different from before.” 1 year ago, even when he went back to j.a.pan, Tooi continued practicing the training routine he learned from Zesca. While taking care of his grandmother, he had not missed a single day of training. There’s a limit on what he can do in a world without Spirits but even so, that limit was enough to hurt his body. Even though the demon king was already destroyed and there’s no enemy he needs to defeat in his own world. Even he’s not sure why. Most likely----it’s lingering attachment. There’s an irreparable lingering attachment in this world which he had said farewell to. “B-but……….that was going too far, Tooi Onii-chan.” Alua made an extremely tired expression. “You were so rude to Captain Duffman……..I, I thought my heart was going to stop.” “Sorry sorry. But, I just couldn’t forgive him.” “Tooi Onii-chan………….” “I’m the only person in this world that is allowed to play with the happiness and sadness of the Schut sister’s breast difference.” “Who made that rule!” A few hours later, it was lunch time. A long table was placed in the middle of the dining room and the owner of the mansion, Laila was sitting at the edge. Tooi and Alua were surrounding the table by sitting on both of that side. While using the corners of the dining table which could easily fit 10 people, the 3 of them had their lunch. “No one? Really?” After Tooi asked, Laila nodded without stopping both her knife and fork. “Yeah, 0. The number of death and wounded in the suppression team led by Captain Duffman during yesterday’s fight in the Fior Region, is 0.” Just like what Tooi predicted, it’s the suppression team that lost. They could not suppress or repel Ryura Vega and retreated instead. Currently, other than Captain Duffman and his vice captains who came back to report about the war, they are all stationed at a nearby city. “….That’s weird. It’s weird that there are no fatalities when fighting with that Ryura. If Ryura is serious, she is able to destroy that small troop in an instant.” “Basically, it means she wasn’t [Serious].” Laila said that. “Ryura Vega was completely moving in defense. She would not move to harm our soldiers and once we withdraw, she would not pursue after.” “But………..with that number fighting, and 0 deaths; that’s normally impossible.” Death fills the battlefield. The more the people, the higher the danger of death proportionally increases. In the battlefield with over a 100 soldiers running about, the battle ended without any deaths at all------normally that’s something impossible. “So that means.” “Yeah. That’s what it means.” “Eh? Eh? What’s what? Don’t go agreeing between yourselves” After Tooi and Laila nodded at each other, a grief filled voice came from the sides. “Basically, Ryura was protecting them, Alua-chan.” “Protecting?” “She can freely control the wind after all. It’s like, she can make a wind barrier and block all the attacks” With the power of the [Violent Wind], controlling the death count on the battlefield is easy. For her, who’s able to put the whole atmosphere under her control, it’s possible to destroy the danger of death sleeping in the battlefield. (I knew it, it looks like she has no intention on hurting humans) They may be enemies but, she does not like killing in vain. The Ryura Tooi knows is that kind of Deity. But----that’s the reason why he’s curious about it. (It’s clear that she has no intentions to fight the Empire. But why, why is she fixed of that place…….?) Those sad eyes resurfaced in his mind again. When Tooi was wondering, Alua let out her voice of admiration. “Deities are amazing as expected. They not only can overwhelm their opponents, but also the power to freely control the opponent’s injuries too…….I knew it, they are on a whole other level compared to us humans and other Spirits……..” “But, there’s an idiot that does not know of the level of difference.” Laila made a fed up expression and spat those words. “Captain Duffman pleasantly misunderstood that it’s thanks to his instructions that there are no casualties. The report just now is mostly bragging. Even though he’s useless, he was desperately trying to make his appeal; it was troubling.” Those words were merciless in response to her previous superior. “What’s more of a headache, by using [0 deaths] as a s.h.i.+eld; he requested an increase of soldiers. He said that the next time will be a success if the number of soldiers increased.” “Did you give a yes?” “Heck no. The situation won’t change even after a little increase of soldiers. Captain Duffman most likely knows that too. By increasing the number of soldiers standing on the front lines, he has an ulterior motive to make them to secure his safety.” “………He had no intentions of winning from the start huh. Well, it’s only normal since the opponent is a deity.” “We might be able to put up a fight if I invite a general cla.s.s Spirit knight to make one division but, I just can’t split our forces that much as expected. But……..actually, our situation is slowly turning into one that won’t allow me to say that any longer.” Laila’s expression was oozing with bitterness. “Recently, messengers from the Lectar Republic have been coming to check on the battle situation. If they found out that there’s no results at all……………..they will most probably request for an increase of soldiers.” Getting a request from her subordinates is one thing but, she can’t reject the request from Lectar since they are business partners. And what’s more, the Empire had created a debt because of the problem in Fior region. However, adding about 100 personals won’t mean anything; although with that said, if 1000 people attended then other places will be lacking personals this time. “But Laila. Is lacking in personals that big of a deal? The [Demon King] was destroyed already right?” “Fuun. It’s because the [Demon King] is destroyed that the opponent this time is humans. Various countries formed an alliance to become a giant rock when there was a giant enemy but, now that the [Demon King] is dead; the situation became critical on the East, South, West, North.” “Fuuun. This is a problem.” “Don’t make it sound like it’s someone else problem. Don’t forget that the problems related to the Nebulosa12 G.o.ddesses also play a part in increasing work for the Empire.” Having being told strictly, Tooi made a small shrug with his head. “No matter; I don’t need to think about this if you and Alua quickly finish solving the Ryura Vega problem. Did you think of any plan?” “…………….I’ve been thinking a lot but, it’s a day after yesterday after all. I still have nothing.” “I see” Tooi was dumbfounded when Laila nodded easily. (…………..This is weird. If I said [Haven’t thought of anything] to the Laila I knew, she would start launching sarcasms like an avalanche) Is this the real Laila? Did she eat something weird? Tooi was suspicious but-----he immediately found out that this is the one and only Laila. “Well then, once you’re done eating, get prepared for going out. Tooi, Alua. I want you all to meet someone.” “Meet someone?” “Us…….? Who is it Onee-chan?” After they asked, Laila smiled like a child who came up with something mischievous. “A member of the Nebulosa12 G.o.ddesses, the Deity of [Time & s.p.a.ce]-----La s.h.i.+ Fomalhaut.”
