Hagure Yuusha no Aesthetica:Volume 5 Prologue

Prologue - Everyone's goal we hope

Part 1

Blowing sand and dust is flying outside the window.

Sand obscured the view, signifying the start of the storm.

The strong winds made the window rattle, yet inside the room there wasn't the slightest amount of noise.

Disidiya's imperial palace stands in the heart of the desert. The imperial palace main body uses the special design in order to not be affected by the sandstorm. Without the slightest gap between the external and the internal walls of the city, even the faintest sound is almost completely cut off from the outside.

As a result, a person in the imperial palace cannot even hear roaring from the village.

"- Father, What is this all about!"

Disidiya IV Prince Alphonse is fired up.

Location is the Emperor's Office. Alphonse questions the person sitting on the throne.

Baram Dy Alon Disidiya

But ......

"............."

Baram not only remains silent, but he doesn't even look at Alphonse.

So Alphonse speaks again with a clear tone expressing dissatisfaction.

"Why ... ... Why do you ignore the resolution, and aim to attack the Wandering forest!”

After the fight between Akatsuki, Listy and the others ended, Alphonse was dispatched to investigate the nation's border. En route he learned about Galevain formally declaring war on Disidiya.

The cause of the declaration of war, was Disidiya's unauthorized invasion of the Wandering forest, clearly a hostile action.

After receiving the report, Alphonse almost suspected it to be false. Sherfied held a meeting with the four-nations, although not an official conference. At least, the international meeting involved the leaders of the four countries.

The meeting concluded with an agreement between the leaders of the four countries - Its binding nature was on an international level.

Furthermore, Akatsuki demonstrated his strength and received international public opinion support.

In accordance with the conference agreement, Alayzard will re-investigate the attack against the surveillance force by Galevain, expanding the investigation in order to uncover the actual facts and make them ​​public. However, Disidiya is ignoring the agreement made be the four countries and at this point in time is on track to attack the demons. This undoubtedly will attract criticism from international public opinion, and bring about domestic people's doubts and worry. Although the majority of people hate or even fear Demons they hope a devastating war between the two can be avoided.

The biggest problem, however lies in the fact that they are launching an attack on the eve of the re-investigation of the events Galevain was initially blamed for.

Attacking at this sensitive point in time will inevitably lead the people to think Disidiya aims to destroy evidence, and the attack against surveillance force by Galevain was actually Disidiya's doing.

However Alphonse does not believe that, he believes that Disidiya is innocent.

The results of investigations along the border seemed to indicate that Alphonse's opinion was correct.

However...... who issued the investigation order......

Alphonse silently gazed at his father, Baram.

He wants Baram to personally confirm.

"A few people...... believe that the attack on the surveillance forces was in fact carried out by our country's military – In order to stimulate the weapons and ammunition trade by directing this farce."

Alphonse tone is full of doubt, and he hopes his father will deny it.

"Father ...... the attack on the surveillance forces wasn't done by your orders, right?"

"...... No."

Baram shook his head, meaning that he had nothing to do with it.

However this is not the answer that Alphonse wanted. Baram's eyes are still staring at the void, avoiding contact with Alphonse's eyes. Such a perfunctory reply doesn't satisfy Alphonse, but instead makes him doubt Baram in his heart.

"Why must we invade the Wandering forest!? Sherfied and Aleclasta and our country have a military alliance, so long as our country sends a request both countries will not sit by and do nothing. However, if this aggressive action is initiated by our country alone, our country alone must shoulder the responsibility of the war. Not to mention the agreement made by the four countries, Galevain along with the human world -- In other words, Alayzard's peace agreement will be torn up with any military action, and will force our country to face condemnation from around the world. Your Father should understand that!"

Compared to the very impassioned Alphonse, Baram's response was very cold.

"The world's condemnation ......"

Until now, Baram looked straight ahead, but now took a look at Alphonse.

"-- It seems you don't know anything."

"Of course I know very well. Father's decision was a big mistake!"

After a bitter retort, Alphonse turns around at once, and is about to leave the office.

Then Baram's voice came from behind.

"Where are you going?"

"Sherfied. I can order the Disidiya military to cease fire, but this may not prevent Galevain and Akatsuki-dono. Queen Listy can stop Akatsuki-dono because of their personal friendship. There is no other person who can avert this war."

"So ...... seems to be no choice."

Baram's voice trailed off, the office door was abruptly pushed open.

Several soldiers filed in from the door.

Royal Knights - Baram's personal guards.

Alphonse found himself immediately surrounded.

"...... Father, what does this mean?"

"This is the meaning. Just as you thought."

Baram said:

"This is the point of no return, your actions will only prevent our country and our people from justice. From now on, you are no longer the director of Disidiya's state affairs. I must detain you until I remove the order."

"Nonsense ...... Isn't the fall of countries because of unrighteousness men, right Father?"

Alphonse tried to approach Baram, but unfortunately he could not do so.

A Royal knight stands in the middle of the two, the rest of the knights have stepped forward to subdue Alphonse. Baram, gazing quietly at this scene, coldly orders:

"Away."

"This is wrong ...... Father, please reconsider!"

Several Knight's were dragging Alphonse out of the Office, Alphonse still did not give up and turned around –

He shouted towards the office door that was slowly closing:

"Turn back now, It's not too late ...... I beg you, Father!"

However, the cries of grief from Alphonse did not reach Baram's ears.

After a loud noise, the thick door closed completely.

Part 2

"It is not too late ......?"

After the office calmed down, Baram mutters.

At the same time, in his heart he thought over Alphonse's advice.

However, Baram still believes his decision is correct.

"Now it is too late ... ... there is no turning back."

After a short pause -

"Whether it is for ourselves...... or for all of Alayzard."

Part 3

A strong shock-wave swept across the battlefield.

Total annihilation, an unrivaled shock-wave emanated from Akatsuki's Demon Sword.

Focusing on a full critical attack, the shock-wave radiating out in every directions leveled the Disidiya vanguard army situated above the surrounding plains of the "Wandering forest".

Despite the devastation, the Disidiya army isn't thinking about withdrawal.

"Do not fear! Swordsman squadron 2, attack! Tank unit, launch -!'

At the forefront of the division a young commander gave the orders, suddenly on the battlefield bursts of gunshots.

Disidiya's pride tank unit, looking like armored beasts, one after another issued a terrifying ROAR.

But -

"This kind of thing is child's play against me!"

Facing the High-speed artillery shells, Akatsuki screamed.

Akatsuki can sidestep or can use his demon sword to cut the shells in half, this much isn't even a problem for him.

However, Ousawa Akatsuki has actually abandoned those options.

His Ki passed through his feet, and building up "Renkan Keikikou" he spun his sword at a high-speed circular orbit striking the shells, redirecting them into the sky. The raining shells landed right in front of the swordsman squadron that intended to join the assault. The bursting shells caused the earth to shake, and sent sand flying up to the sky, obscuring the battlefield.

But the Disidiya soldiers continued to break through the smoke and dust, and bravely launched an assault.

But -

"No, he disappeared? How is it possible!"

"He didn't escape, right?"

Disidiya's soldiers fell into confusion.

Akatsuki sat and waited, overlooking the soldiers.

"Do I look like a run away coward?"

"There, There above us!"

One soldier noticed Akatsuki, but unfortunately he was a step too late.

Jumping in the air Akatsuki easily crossed over the front line, approaching the commander.

Seeing this, the members of long bow squadron immediately lifted their bows. The swordsman squadron was predicting Akatsuki's descent orbit, ready to attack Akatsuki the moment after he landed.

However, Akatsuki is unperturbed. He stretched out his left hand aiming at the feet of soldiers. Then suddenly Akatsuki's left hand let out a huge ball of light - This utilized "Renkan Keikikou" to refine the "Ki" within the body with the atmosphere outside of the body, creating an "energy bomb". A loud BANG! It was aimed below Akatsuki, directly impacting dozens of soldiers of the Disidiya army, who were suddenly blown away by the power.

Allowing Akatsuki to cleanly descend to the now unoccupied ground.

However, Ousawa Akatsuki didn't land, but rose slightly.

"Woo oh oh oh oh!"

Using the momentum from falling out of the sky, the <Demon sword> was stabbed into the earth.

The black <Demon sword> blade was already filled with Akatsuki's "ki".

The sword thrust into earth, immediately triggered an astonishing explosion.

Waiting for the impact to fade away, the smoke gradually dispersed revealing–

Inside the blast radius, located in the heart of the explosion was only a single figure.

Rest assured, that was Ousawa Akatsuki.

"H...how is this possible ......?"

After witnessing Akatsuki's astonishing power, the dazed young commander almost cannot believe his own eyes.

When the explosion occurred, he immediately created an earth magic shield, barely escaping.

Although escaping physical injury, mentally he still suffered a heavy blow. He commanded more than 10,000 soldiers and all were defeated as if a mountain collapsed on them. Even Lien Chan's Tank Squadron was unable to defeat Akatsuki. It was certainly understandable for him to be terrified to his core.

"How...... How can it to possible for one human being to have this much devastating power......"

"- Why?"

The commander muttered to himself. Akatsuki, disdainfully looking out of the corner of his eye, clenched his teeth and shouted loudly:

"You - don't even realize at this point!"

Akatsuki dashes.

Surrounded by an innumerable number of soldiers Lien Chan was panicking and struggling to fight back.

Ousawa Akatsuki couldn't help but recall when he was in pursuit of attaining a higher level of power, and when he had been asked the same question about strength before.

It was about five years ago, when he was first summoned to Alayzard.

While under Sherfied's protection, and living in Erdia castle as a guest.

After receiving swordsmanship training in the palace courtyard, Akatsuki was asked a similar question by Sherfied's -- No, Alayzard's proud "hero".

Leon · Aceperio.

Part 4

"--The reason for strength?"

Aceperio Rushao Leon asked, Akatsuki just nods as to say "ah, yes."

Compared to the out of breath Akatsuki, Leon's composed appearance even more highlighted the power gap between the two.

"You seem to be stronger now then before, right?"

"Uhm, so yeah ... ... But I really didn't think about it."

Leon smiled awkwardly, but Akatsuki is unlikely to give up so easily.

"Then think about it now - what is the reason for your strength."

Since a month ago, Akatsuki has been receiving Leon and Zechs sword training.

After one month of rigorous training he finally managed to grasp the basics of swordsmanship, but it is clear to Akatsuki that even if he continues to train it will be impossible for his sword skills to attain equal footing with Zechs and Leon. General sword training will only increase your general strength. It is insufficient to proceed towards the strongest realm.

In fact, Ousawa Akatsuki's idea was not to become the strongest swordsman, he only wanted obtain enough power to stop his father and brother. The fact is Akatsuki's father and brother are two of the world's most powerful people.

So ...... I must surpass the realm of the strongest ......

Akatsuki's expression is serious, Leon suddenly somewhat understood.

"Maybe it is .... anger and despair....right?"

While hanging his head Leon muttered, his easy-going face is covered with a layer of haze.

"My father and sister died at the hands of Demons ... ... You might of known that, right?"

"Umm, this also is the reason that you, a commoner, aspired to become a knight."

Leon performed very well on the battlefield and acquired countless achievements, thus obtaining the title of a "knight". Leon's strength is unquestionable, in Sherfied and throughout Alayzard he is accepted by all the people as a hero. Everybody thinks that he is the only candidate to overthrow the Demon King Garius.

"Is that all... ...? This is the reason for your strength?"

Leon's answer was apparently unable to convince Akatsuki.

The pain of losing a loved one really might be converted into a powerful motive to improve oneself, but this does not mean that you will be able to ascend to the most powerful throne. This is Akatsuki's personal experience, he experienced even more pain.

Leon isn't the only one who experienced the loss of a loved one... Akatsuki lost his little sister. In Alayzard there is no lack of residents who lost their friends and family, who all felt the same pain and grief.

That being the case, what is the difference between Leon and the other people?

"...... The weight must be different...right?"

Due to Leon's unusually calm tone, Akatsuki can't help but look up.

Only to see Leon with a wry smile, as if he saw through Akatsuki's inner doubts.

"If my strength really surpasses others, which means my inner pain and grief is greater than others ... ... the difference then is home."

Leon's answer leaves Akatsuki speechless and also surprised. In this world there aren't any rebuttal expressions whatsoever, hiding behind a wry smile makes this painfully clear.

Ousawa Akatsuki couldn't help thinking: If that is the case, what you say to yourself must also enhance your strength as soon as possible.

Otherwise, in fact if Akatsuki's determination is inferior to his father's or brother's, this will lead to the Akatsuki's strength being much less than the two of them. However, on the other hand, Akatsuki doesn't think that desperation alone is sufficient.

... Not only do you have ability, you have the faith to not back down.

-Am I right?

Enough desperation to make it hard to breathe and to overwhelm a person's heart - Akatsuki has similar experiences.

However, the demon's beloved wife died by human hands, and angered him enough to abandon the human race and become a Demon King. Perhaps his heart was the same, also dominated by despair and sadness.

"I say ... ... Leon, Eh!"

Akatsuki stared directly at the hero, who slowly started to talk.

"... Peace between human and demons, is it really that far fetched of a dream?"

In order to stop unreasonable opponents by force, your power must greater to compel them.

Thus the present Akatsuki is unable to stop his father and brother.

But Leon is different, his strength is not less than the Demon King's.

The war between human and Demon was virtually the same, except for minor racial difference.

Leon is the hope of mankind, Garius is the King of the Demons, these two are the same in that they each lost a loved one. If these leaders are able to compromise, perhaps they can succeed in stopping this senseless war.

However, Leon slowly shook his head.

"Unlikely, after all the two sides have shed too much blood. And if ...... I let off the murderer who killed my father and sister, I certainly can not forgive myself."

The reason is very simple.

"I've already been to both of their graves, as well as in front of mother, and pledged that I must overthrow the Demons."

"But they are also desperate and just trying to survive. If as you say desire gives birth to strength, then this battle, does it not become two sides of a desperate race? Really is there no other solution?"

Leon shows a faint smile, his expression is very calm.

"Akatsuki, you really are kind, it's no wonder Her Majesty has a crush on you."

Akatsuki hearing these words, can't help but awkwardly scratch the back of his head.

"Her Majesty is good to me, but it's because I come from a different world, and that is relatively rare that's all."

"No such thing, you have a particular charm about you that wins the favor of others. Zechs and Loutier became good friends with you so quickly, and you even became popular with the maids in the city."

"It happened right? It seems that I am actually hated by Listy...... "

"Can it be that you're thinking too much of it?"

"Otherwise, why didn't anyone believe in me? I still got into trouble."

Akatsuki looked helplessly.

"I obviously apologized for that so many times."

"Haha ... her first impression of you really was the worst."

Leon laughed.

"Who told you that she was in the bath when I suddenly dropped from the sky?"

"The summoning time and place is not up to me, yet I got blamed."

Akatsuki answered roughly.

"One second I was just about to lie down on the bed, the next second I suddenly appeared in a different world in a huge luxurious bathroom with my whole body pressing down on top of the Princess's body ... ... You absolutely are incapable of understanding how I was feeling."

The biggest problem was that both of us were without a stitch of clothing, which further increased our embarrassment. Akatsuki completely didn't know how to explain the awkward situation. As a result he was considered a suspicious person, so Listy loudly screamed and cast several magic attacks at him as he tried to escape in a panic. However when the maids heard the commotion they came running and Valkyria abruptly hit him on the head, knocking him out cold on the spot. Once again he opened his eyes and was surprised to find himself actually imprisoned in a dark Dungeon for not just one day but two days. Finally, it was found out that this was a big misunderstanding, clearing Akatsuki of any wrongdoing.

"Listy by nature is conservative and usually changes clothes alone with no maids present in order to not show off her bare body... ... Her fright at that time, of course, is predictable."

Leon smiled and continued.

"She's never shown her naked body in front of a man before, and probably that was the first time she saw a man's naked body too."

"Therefore I apologized to her."

"Actually I don't blame you. After all the summoning of a person from a different world is the desire of the world, and isn't something that can be controlled."

Just as Leon finished, the clock tower bells rang out.

"- Oh, Akatsuki, I have to go."

"Ah ...... now you have to go help your mother open up shop?"

Leon's mother Selina managed the "Wildcat Pavilion" restaurant in town. Even though he is a "hero" now, Leon is still set on going to the restaurant to lend a hand.

"Can't do anything about it, because it's only me...and mom left."

Everyone in the city knows Leon values his time with his mother Selina above all else. Therefore no one bothers Leon while he enjoys his mother and son time.

Naturally Akatsuki is the same, he quietly watched Leon leave.

Then Leon abruptly stopped and looked back at Akatsuki.

It seems that he suddenly remembered something.

"Don't worry Akatsuki, even without the gift of magic like Zechs, you can become an excellent swordsman, and you will get stronger than you are now."

"How can you be so sure?"

Akatsuki frowned skeptically at Leon's argument, but Leon understood and smiled.

"Certainly, because you are actually somewhat similar to me."

Part 5

--Ousawa Akatsuki's consciousness returned to the present.

The battlefield is riddled with smoke, not a trace of the enemy troops remained.

Akatsuki alone repelled Disidiya's tens of thousands of troops.

If he immediately chases after them he could completely wipe out the enemy, however Akatsuki doesn't intended to do so.

He decided to let the surviving soldiers take their wounded comrades, so that no one remains.

"Well... ... It's about time to return."

Akatsuki put the <demon sword> on his shoulder. Miu and the others in Forestnium were waiting for Akatsuki to return. Although they come to trust in Akatsuki's strength, however because of Akatsuki's delay they will inevitably be a little worried.

Thus Ousawa Akatsuki turned around to take measure of the battlefield and the path that lay before him.

"............"

The impact of the battle turned the wilderness into a mess. Debris littered the ground with broken swords, armor, big iron tanks, and blood smeared on Disidiya's flag.

The present scene is a relating of what previously occurred here, an earthshaking war.

This war was provoked by none other than himself, however Ousawa Akatsuki had no regrets. The moment the four-party talks ended, and everyone returned to Forestnium, no other options existed. No matter what Miu, Chikage, Kuzuha even Haruka and Kaidou supported Akatsuki's decision. Therefore Akatsuki became the newly-appointed Demon King, and officially declared war against Disidiya.

"True peace ......"

Akatsuki muttered.

In the past, I don't know how many people attempted to bring true peace for Alayzard, fought blood-soaked battles for this land, but no one has succeeded in achieving their dreams. These people also included the hero Leon and the Demon King Garius.

"Rogue Hero" Akatsuki and Listy fought bravely, but in the end, it ended in failure.

However Ousawa Akatsuki decided he will never abandon his oath, and pledged to overcome this cruel fate.

Therefore, I cannot be defeated at any cost, because if history has proven anything.

- Even if the Demon King is overthrown afterwards is still the same, peace may not arrive in this world.

Since ancient times stories have been handed down, foretelling of the Demon King's death as the symbol that marks the end of suffering and the arrival of happiness.

People around the world would rejoiced at the upcoming peace with smiles on their faces.

However the big happy ending is actually camera selectivity, actuality is built on the premise above.

While the ending credits of that movie rolls of the screen, the leading male and female are smiling and holding up their hands together, gazing at the sky -

However for leading actor and actress in the real world, the fact is that when the flames of war cease a thousands things are left to be done in this extremely broken world.

The satire is that everyone deliberately ignored the facts before their eyes, and became intoxicated with the idea that overthrowing the Demon King meant victory.

The joyful tears blurred the field of vision, brushing aside this frame from the movie to never be seen.

Consequently Akatsuki gazed at the scene before him.

Scenes from video games were not able to do justice to the real situation.

Ousawa Akatsuki's present picture will be firmly engraved in his heart.

After the overthrowing of the Demon King, mankind will only get a false HAPPY END.

I absolutely must not give up easily.

I still have many unfulfilled wishes.

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