Hagure Yuusha no Aesthetica:Volume 7 Chapter 2

Chapter 2 - Crossroad of Ideas

Part 1

Babel was responsible for management of all things related to alternate worlds.

Deep within the campus resides the engineering sector that studies the knowledge and technology of said alternate worlds.

That was where they combine technology from this and different worlds to develop new technologies that was unfathomable by current scientific standards.

The next day after the slumber party at the Ousawa home.

Akatsuki had left the house early in the morning to come to the engineering sector.

The purpose was to get Sleipnir checked out.

"It should be somewhere in this direction ....."

Akatsuki was causally driving down the road into the sector.

He was headed towards Kubota Kaito's workshop that visited once before.

The other day in the middle of the night -- Akatsuki was out driving Sleipnir around town.

When it just so happened that the convenience store he stopped at was robbed. Furthermore the criminals abducted a woman.

Upon arriving at the scene, Akatsuki pursued the getaway car. He eventually caught up with the kidnappers and saved the female hostage. In the process he destroyed their car and tossed several of the kidnappers into the ocean.

However, while pursuing them Akatsuki did the unthinkable. He drove Sleipnir on top of the water, not just the shoal of a beach but over several hundred feet of water.

Sleipnir was able to travel beyond the speed of sound with no obstructions at sea level -- because of those two factors, he achieved the unimaginable.

And Sleipnir lived up to Akatsuki's expectations. The motorcycle ran across the ocean as stable as a Mercedes-Benz driving on an asphalt road, and finally even climbed over the precipice of a cliff.

Akatsuki marveled at the spectacular performance of Sleipnir, deepening his attachment towards it.

After returning home Akatsuki immediately thoroughly washed Sleipnir to avoid any corrosion caused by the seawater.

However, there was a limit to the maintenance that could be done by an amateur.

If you really want what was best for your vehicle, a professional was needed to look at it on a regular basis.

"I won't find a gas station mechanic able to inspect it."

The motorcycle's body was made ​​of orichalcum, and was powered by spirits rather than gasoline.

Only an expert with extraordinary knowledge would be able maintain Sleipnir.

And there was only one person in the special autonomous region that Akatsuki could leave it with.

"...... Ah, I finally made it here."

In front of an Showa era inspired automobile factory, Akatsuki parked Sleipnir.

"No way... there is no one here."

Since it was now spring break for JPN Babel almost no one was on campus. At the entrance he asked the security guards about the circumstances. Apparently there was a large-scale system update tonight, and he had also said there was only a handful of staff members still on campus.

Akatsuki wanted to make sure he wasn't wasting a trip, so he had asked the guard to check the online database to confirm whether or not Kubota was on campus, and for the time being at least he was in his workshop.

"Eh..... Where are you old man?"

Although he was usually in his small workshop working on one of his hobbies, Professor Kubota was also in charge of Babel's special systems, which he designed. It was extremely likely that the Professor was in a conference or conducting some kind of research somewhere else.

Therefore Akatsuki cleared his mind, and searched the surrounding area for signs of life using Renkan Keikikou.

As long as Akatsuki meets with someone once, he will basically never forget their Ki.

"......Good, seems to be no problems."

In front of the workshop Akatsuki was able to sense a familiar Ki, he was convinced Kubota was here.

"Old man, I'm coming in."

Without waiting for a reply, Akatsuki went into the workshop.

Once inside he saw a person he met before. The young man wearing overalls also noticed Akatsuki's presence.

"Oh, Ousawa-san long time no see."

"Hey -- is the old man around?"

"I think he is in the back right now. Is there something you need?"

"Ah, I just wanted to have the old man do some maintenance on Sleipnir."

Akatsuki raised his thumb over his shoulder pointing -- outside the workshop.

"There is something he is working on right now, but I can go ask the old man, okay?"

Part 2

"-- Please wait here a minute."

The youth wearing overalls disappeared into the back of the workshop.

However, Akatsuki was not left there all alone.

In fact, before Akatsuki arrived the youth wearing overalls was talking to another person.

So ......

"Yo Akki. Did you specially come here to ask the old man for maintenance? Also, it's unlikely that you did something reckless, right?"

The previous visitor was Kaidou Motoharu. With a friendly smile he raised his right hand as to say hello.

When Akatsuki searched the workshop for Kubota's Ki, he had also sensed Kaidou's.

"You flatter me......"

Akatsuki returned with the same smile.

"The other evening you abducted an underage girl off the street, indeed that is just a little matter."

"A misunderstanding, it really was a misunderstanding. I think the entire world believes the man who followed us is a bigger pervert, right? I walk a pure line."

"So an underage girl forced you into a dark alley, this is your so-called pure line. "

Akatsuki had a conversation with Kaidou in the back alley, and he remembered the appearance of young girl go-getter.

Then.....

"Believe it or not, she is in fact several years older than you or I."

"...... Seriously?"

"Of course it's true. You should know you can't judge a woman's age from her outward appearance. Even you know that, right Akki?"

"Ah, well."

Kaidou's did have a somewhat convincing argument.

But Akatsuki couldn't imagine that that petite girl was actually older than himself.

...... That means, Cecil may be a couple of years younger than me.

Akatsuki recalled an encounter that night with a peerless beauty. The probability was low, but not impossible. Women really are devilish and mysterious creatures.

Akatsuki was lost in thought .....

"-!? Akki are you all alone today? Usually you have several woman attending to you."

"Several woman attending to me? Don't exaggerate so much."

Akatsuki couldn't help but smile while shaking his head.

"Izumi, Class Rep and the Vice President all spent the night at your house. It seems several people had a lot of fun, perhaps they are still in bed right now."

This morning when Akatsuki woke up, he went downstairs and found no one else was up yet. Even after he waited some time, they still didn't get out of bed. Without any other choice he cooked and had breakfast alone. Also before leaving he knock-knocked on their door, but still there was no response.

It seemed like nothing was wrong when he checked their Ki in the room, but just to be sure Akatsuki gently opened the door to confirm they were safe. He was surprised to find everyone lying side by side on the bed. They were all sleeping weirdly with something like a faraway look on their faces, probably because of a happy dream.

"...... It seems the Vice President has already left."

Early in the morning, he thought he sensed Haruka's Ki leaving the house.

And sure enough, when he entered the room Haruka wasn't there.

However, she left a note on the table saying she was otherwise engaged and had to leave early.

On the back of the note she had written "last night was really fun" and "thank you". Akatsuki was very pleased. It looked like Haruka decided to join their group, and last night wasn't all for nothing.

Through last night's party, they hoped to cultivate a strong sense of friendship.

But the last sentence she wrote, "Everyone defended with their lives!" was a little difficult to understand.

After he disentangled Chikage's heart, Akatsuki accidentally fell asleep and had absolutely no idea what happened after.

Maybe all of the girls played some sort of game of chance right after that.

Akatsuki drew two conclusions while looking at Miu's unladylike appearance as she was sleeping.

She must be dreaming about baseball or boxing.

"Oh, your relationship seems to be pretty good."

Kaidou laughed.

"–- And by the way, I just saw the Vice President walked into the school building."

"Hmm ...... so?"

"...... Huh? Akki, isn't your response a little too weak?"

"What do you mean?"

Akatsuki was slow to understand the situation.

"The other day..... when we met in town, you asked me if I was planning on killing the Vice President? and just now I said I saw the Vice President, could it be that you're not worried?"

Kaidou replied.

"...... Ah, now I get it"

Akatsuki said with a wry smile.

"And at that time, I made it clear that I didn't intend on making you into my enemy."

"..... I probably said something like that."

Kaidou thought Akatsuki's reaction was anticlimactic.

"You were actually very direct. Akki at that time..... the murderous intent towards me was really scary. I always thought you were somewhat skeptical of me, but now it seems that you sort of trust me?"

"Your thinking too much. If what you said is true, it is not necessary to worry. And if what you say is a lie, I would just kill you. No problems."

Kaidou dropped his shoulder feeling extremely disappointed, Akatsuki laughed "Oh",

"-- Is it possible that it was just a lie?"

He stared at Kaidou with eyes filled with murderous rage.

But ......

Kaidou lowered his shoulders, dodging Akatsuki's glance while smiling wryly to ward it off.

"Come on Akki, I'm not stupid enough to tell you directly –- Ah!"

While in the middle of talking his cell phone started ringing.

Akatsuki couldn't see the caller ID on the LCD screen.

"Uwa......"

Kaidou had a slightly cramped expression as he glanced at Akatsuki.

"You don't have to worry about me, answer the phone."

Akatsuki motioned to Kaidou to pick up the phone.

The scene from the dark alley repeated itself, except this time the roles were reversed.

"You have a pained look. The caller seems to be a troublesome character."

"Yes, a very troublesome and scary women."

Kaidou roughly replied, and grudgingly pressed the call button.

"...... Hey, it's me. It's okay, you can..... before you called you should have already known where I am, and what is to be done, right? -- EH, What? You are a troublesome and scary woman?"

Kaidou was surprised, and momentarily matched Akatsuki's eyes.

"No, I would never say such a thing... ... Haha... ha..."

Then he turned his back to Akatsuki, letting out some dry laughter.

After Kaidou waved, he stated heading towards the back of Kubota's workshop.

He just watched as Kaidou's back disappeared from the other side of the garage.

Ousawa Akatsuki couldn't help muttering:

"Troublesome and scary woman... ... Sounds like that guy doesn't have it easy."

Part 3

Just as Kaido left, a burly man suddenly appeared in front of Akatsuki. He was wearing oil-stained overalls, and a little stubbly beard with a rough-hewn face.

At first glance he looked to everyone like an obstinate father figure -- Kubota the owner of the workshop.

".....I'm waiting."

Kubota coldly said, before going over to Akatsuki.

Then he went straight to Sleipnir parked outside the workshop.

He was not in a bad mood. Akatsuki knew that Kubota always had this type of attitude.

So Akatsuki nonchalantly followed behind him.

"I'm sorry old man..... Even during spring break, you must be very busy."

"I don't particularly mind. In the first place I handed it over to you, and I suppose I should be in charge of its maintenance."

"Can't thank you enough. I know nothing about machines. I would just have ruined it."

After walking outdoors, Kubota immediately started checking its condition.

First he looked over every inch of Sleipnir with the naked eye.

"...... You seem to treasure this like a baby."

"Would you? I ride up mountains and on top of oceans."

Akatsuki answered.

After all, he came to ask Kubota for maintenance mainly because of driving it on top of the water for quite some time.

Admittedly, it might be difficult say that he believed in Sleipnir's ability to take action, but not enough to cherish it.

But ......

"A professional technician at a glance can see what type of attitude the rider has towards their vehicle. You were a little rough, but not to the point of destroying it."

"Umm, I guess your right."

"The most important thing is that you enjoy the ride. Such intentions are transmitted to the machine. In particular this guy, who picks its owner. At least in my eyes, this ill-tempered and unruly guy is in a fairly good mood today."

"It is?"

"Hmph..... to be able to meet an owner worthy of trust you would also be happy."

Kubota said as he finished the visual inspection.

"There shouldn't be any problems...... but to be prudent I still want to conduct a detailed inspection. And by the way, you should take this opportunity to link with your AD as well. "

"Thanks, but why link with my AD?"

"Vice President Nanase should have given you a new AD, right?"

"Ah, you mean this thing?"

Akatsuki pointed at his wristband.

-- It was the new type AD that Haruka gave him the other day before going to Alayzard.

Originally he needed seven AD's to activate his black magic sword, but now he only needed one.

The new model was originally going to be given out at the end of spring break -- the scheduled start of the new year for the students, but in the fight against Phil/ Zahhaku during the ranking tournament Akatsuki's older model AD broke. So Kubota had the new type of AD delivered to him ahead of schedule.

Kubota confirmed that Akatsuki was wearing the new AD.

"Both the old and new AD use the same telepathic stone as Sleipnir. The biggest difference between the old AD and the new AD is that the latter can lift restrictions according to the user's will, and has a new feature that allows your uniform or other clothes to transform directly into combat clothes."

"I have somewhat heard about that."

Akatsuki looked at the new AD.

"When she handed me this, I remember receiving a similar explanation from Haruka."

"In short, the new model reacts quicker than the old to the user's consciousness."

Kubota added.

"As long as the new AD and Sleipnir's telepathic wave lengths are synchronized to the same frequency, even if both are in separate locations, you can also convey your consciousness through the AD."

"You mean I can remotely control Sleipnir?"

"Yes."

Kubota nodded. Surprised by that, Akatsuki whistled.

"This seems to be quite a useful feature."

But ......

"This ferocious looking motorcycle driving unmanned down the road in the city is sure to terrify anyone passing by on the street. Probably the traffic cops would immediately be called to stop it."

"I can't deny the possibility, but this is a function that in case of an emergency you can call upon the power of this guy to help you weather the storm. At the same time, I believe this guy is happy to have this feature. Either way, it is up to you to determine whether or not is the right occasion to use it."

"Oh ... ... Well, please do that. "

Akatsuki said while looking at Sleipnir.

"If this guy can have greater functionality, naturally it is going to be happier."

At the same time, Akatsuki handed over his AD to Kubota.

"About how long will it take?"

"That depends, however is seems your synchronization is still good, so it shouldn't take that much time. I'll do the adjustment and this guy's maintenance at the same time, but probably won't be done until this evening."

"Well that being the case, I guess I will have to find a place to pass the time."

Akatsuki bowed his head while deep in thought.

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

Suddenly, Kubota looked at Akatsuki, not saying a word.

"......EH? Old man what's wrong? Beating around the bush isn't your style. You're always unfriendly and stern, and do not hesitate to tell it how it is. I don't want to play a guessing game with you."

Akatsuki could not help but frown.

"Since idle is idle......"

Kubota still had on a poker face.

"In the spirit of saving some time why don't you assist me a little -- Ousawa Akatsuki."

Part 4

Akatsuki's was taken by Kubota to a facility built on the edge of the engineering sector. It had a gigantic open space comparable to the school's arena.

"-- What is this place?"

"Its one of my labs mainly used to test each system."

"Oh ...... after all Old man, your true identity is great professor of Babel."

Akatsuki said, as he looked round.

"..... So, why bring me to such a place? and what do you want me to do?"

"To test a newly developed combat program."

Kubota answered.

"You should have received combat training lessons, right?"

"Well, a couple of times."

Akatsuki said with a wry smile, suddenly remembered something.

"The first class training program went out of control and caused a lot of controversy."

The training program level was significantly increased to the point the students couldn't withstand the power of the summoned chicken snake beast they were to fight against. The program even refused to accept any commands until it finally went on a rampage.

It developed into a seriously dangerous situation as a lot of students fell victim to petrifaction though the cry of the chicken snake beast. When Akatsuki got wind of it in another arena next to that one, he rushed over to defeat the beast.

-- Of course, the person responsible was not the program's designer.

The student terrorist belonged to the same B class as Akatsuki, Tanaka. He intentionally set the program to go out of control.

"-- What do you want me to do exactly? Test a new more stable training program?"

"It is indeed a fighting program, but it has nothing to do with practical combat training used for teaching."

Kubota operated the control panel set in the wall.

"The existing training programs focus on building team chemistry and acquiring practical experience. This new program's purpose is to enhance an individuals fighting capabilities. In order to avoid confusion, just call it an 'exercise program'."

"Hmm...... Okay."

In short, it was a physical education training program, or an exercise program like a sports club training activity.

Although the purpose of both was movement, compared to the former academic course, the latter focus was more on strengthening and developing an individual's ability.

However, Babel always divided them into groups, and the staff was unlikely to force a student to receive training. As long as a student gets enough basic educational subjects credits, their next phase of development was left to the student's discretion.

Therefore Babel school clubs were as varied as any other schools, big and small, liberal arts courses to the physical education clubs, as long as you were student at Babel you could freely sign up and join any club. Of course, not belonging to any club was also allowed. Akatsuki was currently in the go home club.

But the school also opens the training facilities during non-school hours for any students who wanted to enhance their ability to fight and raise their class in the ranking tournament. Kubota had further developed a separate combat program for those individuals.

"-- No way, Are they going to mandatory enforce all students to become stronger from now on?"

The students and the staff in Babel certainly have the possibility of being dispatched as soldiers to the battlefield in case of an emergency.

However recently, COCOON's position as an administrator of the world was rock-solid, and the authority of Babel was also very high, there were now very little wars and conflicts around the world, almost no need to send in troops.

And Babel was an educational institution, not a military force.

At least nominally it was true.

"For a fighter like me, I have no objections. But for some of peaceful students that try to avoid fighting, even they must receive mandatory training?"

Akatsuki's tone revealed an obvious displeasure.

"No, you are mistaken."

The expressionless Kubota shook his head.

"But during the last ranking tournament, didn't an unidentified higher dimension being appear?"

"......Ah."

Akatsuki nodded. Kubota was talking about a young person who was sent after Miu from Alayzard, Phil Barnett. When Phil changed into a dragon he was defeat at the hands of Akatsuki.

"That Dragon, right?"

"Perhaps it was its considerable size, but when they suspended the tournament almost all the students and staff taking refuge saw that dragon flying over head. Although there were no eyewitness that Ousawa Akatsuki took down the dragon, rumors having been running rampant between the students and faculty ....."

Kubota said.

"As a result, a small number of students and staff have put in requests -- hoping to get stronger. Even if they can't defeat a dragon, or reach the same level as the Ousawa Akatsuki, if something happens they don't want to sit on the sidelines and watch."

After a short pause ......

"Do you understand? These people have been inspired by you -- Ousawa Akatsuki."

"Me......?"

"Yes. You were the first person in Babel's history during the Norn screening to be screened as the "True Hero", and you are able to stand toe to toe with the student council, and then during the ranking tournament you defeated a gigantic Dragon. A portion of the schoolgirls sees you as romantic interest, while some people acknowledge your strength and wish to emulate you."

After finishing setting up the controls, Kubota looked at Akatsuki.

"Ready. Come with me, I'll teach you what to do."

"I get that, and I think its an honor to be the motivation for others to become strong, but in my heart I'm not all that happy......"

Akatsuki sighed, then he walk over to Kubota's side.

-- While in Alayzard, Leon was worshiped as the Hero and Akatsuki, the Rogue Hero, was just boy with a sword looking up to him.

...... Headache.

Becoming the target of worship was definitely not a bad thing.

However, the thought of his fighting spirit inspiring everyone, even a pacifist to strive to be like him. In his heart, nevertheless he felt a little sorry.

Akatsuki never claimed to be a Hero, in peacetime he would abandon it and deliberately vilify his own image. However, there will be still many young admirers who would enter the army, and lose their lives on the battlefield.

If you include the people Akatsuki doesn't know, the number should be quite considerable.

Becoming a symbol of hope was the inescapable fate of a Hero.

Due to their existence, the irony was that more people will lose their lives.

"-- I don't know how you will spend your time in this world, or what you will accomplish."

And Kubota said,

"As long as you continue to fight and continue to win, there undoubtedly will be more and more people looking up to you. In fact, you don't have to take responsibility for those people, or be concerned with how it effects the world, but --"

"...... I know."

Akatsuki nodded,

"I still have to be true to myself, and because of that I have no choice. Even if someone was to change because of me, I still can't run away."

In the end, what does it mean to shoulder someone else's feelings......

Ousawa Akatsuki was already somewhat aware.

So he firmly said:

"The only thing I can do for them now is to continue being myself, and live up to their expectations."

Part 5

After roughly explaining to Akatsuki how to use the terminal to control the program, Kubota left the facility.

"It is a really strange development, huh......Exercise Program."

Akatsuki smiled wryly.

Well good. Until Sleipnir's maintenance is complete, he has time to kill, so might as well take this opportunity to move around a little.

Therefore, Akatsuki looked around this place again.

This is a huge space, in addition to the special barrier that converts psychical damage to mental damage the ceilings, walls, and floors also seem to be covered with a barrier that absorbs physical damage and magic. Akatsuki tried to hit a nearby wall.

After a loud bang, he clearly felt his hand hit the wall.

But ......

"Not even a scratch, huh......."

It seems even if he went on a rampage the laboratory would be safe.

Akatsuki's AD is still having its wavelength adjusted, so he is currently wearing another AD provided by Kubota. He put on the new uniform he got from Haruka last night.

He hopes this will be a decent workout –- but it depends on the opponent.

"-- Well, either way, lets get started."

Akatsuki turned to face the Control Panel on the wall.

In Kubota's exercise program, it seems you can select your opponents strength depending on the purpose of the exercise.

The system first measures the persons fighting ability, then change its strength accordingly. On top of that, there are another three modes to choose from.

"NORMAL" the strength of the fighter and opponent are equal. To win the fighter is expected to enhance combat abilities.

"EASY" the strength of the fighter is greater than the opponent. It is usually used for testing weapons or correcting war strategies.

"HARD" the strength of the fighter is weaker than the opponent. The opponent significantly increases its strength for a short period of time.

On default the system automatically choose the appropriate option, but fighter can choose the type of enemy.

Of course, because of Akatsuki's personality, naturally he want to do hard mode, but .....

"Ah, the Old man wanted me to test out the tutorial first. To test out the strength recognition software on a low-level opponent, a warm up then......"

Without a choice, Akatsuki reluctantly pressed the start button on the LCD screen.

Then numerous particles of light began to gather in the center of the laboratory.

The light particles gradually began to take shape, creating a gigantic bird much larger than normal.

He was looking at a cockatrice.

"......Are you kidding me? A cockatrice? This level of a monster is supposed to be a warm up? Skip it. "

Akatsuki disapproved of the cockatrice, and went back to the control panel.

"Oh... ... this one? Nah... ... What about this?"

Akatsuki was still looking at the LCD screen, when the cockatrice suddenly screamed.

Low and heavy footsteps could be heard, the beast was approaching him at an alarming rate.

"-- Noisy."

Akatsuki used his AD to instantly summon a black magical sword -- the <Demon sword>.

He swung the sword down behind his back. The flash of his sword, instantly chopped the cockatrice in half.

"....."

It became particles of light and disappeared without a trace.

His AD also respond to Akatsuki intention to fight, and automatically switched his uniform to combat clothes.

"Oh...... these new clothes look just like the Demon King outfit I wore our there."

After countless battles in Alayzard, the AD determined these were the clothes most suitable for Akatsuki.

At the end of the tutorial a messages displayed on the screen.

"Give me a break Old man. This isn't a way to pass the time, its simply a waste of time, okay?"

With a bitter face Akatsuki continued with the control panel. He change the system to hard mode, and now is searching the list of opponents that would seems the most interesting to fight.

Goblin, ogres, orc, cyclops, minotaur, gryphon, cerberus.

The screen showed beasts in the same family as the cockatrice, but.....

"......Not interested."

These monsters levels aren't that much different from the cockatrice.

But still with the level monsters fighting it would be no fun at all. Since you want me to test it out, a strong one would be best.

"Nothing decent, huh......?"

Perhaps further down the list the monsters will be stronger. After thinking that, Akatsuki advanced to bottom of the list.

The last monster was --

"What is this ......UNKNOWN DRAGON?"

Akatsuki moved the cursor over it.

While hovering over the icon the detailed data was displayed, Alayzard's evil dragon Zahark.

"During the ranking tournament he must of secretly captured its data. "

"Hmm", Akatsuki forced a smile.

But according to Kubota, some the teachers and students who witnessed Zahark wanted to get stronger, this is probably why the exercise program was born. It might be significant for them if Zahark were to be listed in the program.

And to Akatsuki, he was definitely a powerful enemy.

Plus in hard mode, Zahark's power undoubtedly will higher now.

"However..... to fight it right here?"

Akatsuki look around to confirm the size of laboratory.

It is a large space, but the space might be a little tight since Zahark was well over twenty meters. If it tried to spread its wings, it simply would not be able to fly around.

For others who wanted to challenge Zahark, the spatial conditions would be very advantageous to them. However in Akatsuki's eyes who wants a good challenge, it totally is not the case.

"That sucks......"

So Akatsuki scroll up the list again, scrolling all the way back to the first page. Until he was pointing the cursor over the Goblin's options.

"Really is useless....."

Akatsuki sighed, and once again moved down the list, returning to Zahark's options.

"Ah... ... what's this all about?"

Akatsuki was stunned for a moment.

He press the menu and nothing happened, Akatsuki pushed it several times, then pushed the right and above options, etc., only to find at the bottom menu option was not Zahark, and there was a new screen never seen before.

"Hey, this is not broke, right?"

While staring at the screen he got an ominous feeling, unexpectedly at the top of the screen it read.

"DEBUG.....What is debug mode？"

It is a special screen only for developers.

It seemed to be because of his indiscriminate actions, unfortunately –- correction, fortunate he hit the jackpot.

By changing the parameters of the program, you can intensity the strength of the program.

"The level limits... ... the difficulty... ... aha, ultimate mode. This looks like fun. "

Akatsuki also search around for some more interesting options, but didn't see any other.

"It seems like a hidden boss and not on the list.....--eh? "

Akatsuki noticed in the lower right corner of the screen in debug mode there was an unnatural data space.

"......"

Nothing was displayed on the screen, but he couldn't look away for some reason. He did wondered why there was such a thing, however it seemed like the space was calling out to him.

Akatsuki subconsciously move the cursor over.

Then he selected the blank space for some reason.

And simultaneously the the blank space now displayed a name.

"G · OUSAWA."

"This is ......"

A little skeptical, Akatsuki pressed the button.

Final confirmation -- YES.

After finally choosing, light particles once again gathered in middle of the laboratory.

Akatsuki's opponent soon appeared before his eyes.

If a person just met Akatsuki for the first time, they might be able to mistake him with this young person. The youth's appearance is almost exactly the same as Akatsuki.

His eye color, physique, hair, and even his fearless smile are a spitting image.

-- However, if you look closely there is little difference between the two.

The youth is slightly taller than Akatsuki, and his hairstyle is different.

Also he has a longer Japanese sword in his hands than Akatsuki.

The youth isn't Akatsuki.

However, it is not a accidental resemblance. Ousawa Akatsuki recognizes the man in front of him.

Akatsuki slowly said:

"Father--"

Exactly.

His opponent was Akatsuki's father -- a young Ousawa Gouki.

Part 6

"So it turns out like this.....Now I see what Old man Kubota meant."

The time when Akatsuki attempted to tame Sleipnir .....

Kubota said he knew a little bit about Gouki.

.....Oh, that's right

Kubota and Gouki should be about the same age.

Those two people were both around Akatsuki's age, probably the same age of the Gouki standing in front of him, when they were summoned to an alternate world is just getting started. Babel had not been organized yet, and also there weren't that many people who returned from another world. At that time, if those two meet after going through similar circumstances, is would be very natural if they became friends.

"Okay, however that's not why I am here...... "

Akatsuki raised his Black Sword, and took a step forward.

He laughed a little.

"Even if it's just a computer program......I will not miss this opportunity to compete with you! "

With a loud roar, Akatsuki made the first move.

He launch himself forward at full speed.

Closing the distance between the two in no time, then he put all his power into one strike.

But ......

The computer generated Gouki slightly waved his Japanese sword.

"Gakiiiiiin--"

A metallic sound rang out as the Demon sword and Japanese sword slammed together.

"Uhh, Ahhhhhhhhhhhhhh!?"

Akatsuki's body was sent flying more than a dozen feet backwards.

It was too late for him to adjust his body in the air, he slammed into the wall.

"Gahhh......!"

The strong impact in his back, forced all the oxygen out of his lungs.

He stop breathing for a moment, because of the special barrier there was no possibility that the wall was broken.

However the impact on the human body was not lost. Even so, Akatsuki withstood the pain and got off the ground.

"...... Aha, this is more like it."

Akatsuki laughed fearlessly.

His opponent is one of the most powerful people in the world, and is one of the people Akatsuki must defeat.

Even if this is a hopeless battle, he cannot pass on this a rare fight.

The difficulty of training programs adjusts according to the user's strength, In NORMAL mode the enemies would be evenly matched with the user. However, Gouki is part of debug mode, and appeared as a blank space. It is on a completely different level than the rest.

Then.....the different between himself and his father's power at that time was so much.

Ousawa Akatsuki doesn't actually know how big of a gap in strength there is between him and his father or his brother.

However ......

If he were to able to defeat a young version of his father, it would be tantamount to obtaining the right to challenge those two people.

But on the contrary, if he can't against a virtual opponent, let alone a copy of his father, there is no point. The genuine Gouki would have over many years accumulated much more experience, and is probably a lot stronger.

Plus it is safe to assume that his physical condition is unlikely to decline because of age.

At that very moment Akatsuki thought this was a fight he absolutely can't lose.

-- However, the spectacle that appeared before his eyes was incredible.

The Japanese sword in Gouki's hands disappeared, as if saying it does not need a weapon to face this level an enemy. The computer generated Gouki stood firm with a fearless smile.

"How dare you look down on me ......"

Akatsuki confronted the calm Gouki, unable to hide his inner anger.

"Good, I prefer using my hands anyway... ... Come on!"

He released his magic sword, and walk over to Gouki empty handed. And then at an arm's distance away he stopped.

"I'm a the challenger, so I get the first strike."

After saying that, Akatsuki immediately channeled renkan keikikou.

Concentrating all the kei inside his body into his right fist.

"--Eat my fist, FATHER!"

He drives his right fist into Gouki's face.

"Bakii!"

A dull thud could be heard.

However, even after receiving Akatsuki's fist, Gouki never moved as much as one step from where he was standing.

He stood there grinning at Akatsuki, then in a similar fashion gave Akatsuki a right hook.

"Gah -- Gaaaaaaaaaaaaa!"

He felt an acute pain running through his abdomen as he looked down at the ground.

However, he didn't see Gouki standing there.

"Crap -- Above!"

Akatsuki reflexively punches behind himself.

After a muffled bang, he clearly felt the impact of hitting his target.

However his attack didn't land, it was blocked.

Akatsuki turn around after his punch, only to see a furious Gouki with an impending kick awaiting.

He had no time to either defend nor evade.

Gouki's kick landed cleanly, smashing Akatsuki into floor with a vengeance.

Part 7

Kubota Kaito was watching the spectacle a little ways away.

After returning to the workshop, Kubota monitored the laboratory through a holographic image projected midair while silently doing the maintenance on Sleipnir and linking the AD.

"......"

He even saw Akatsuki accidentally enter into debug mode, Kubota never made a move. After all, Akatsuki choose it on his own.

Even if Akatsuki is at a disadvantage, even if he is in a life-threatening situation, Kubota doesn't have any reasons to stop it.

On the screen, Gouki was just standing there while Akatsuki was laying on the floor. He was slowly rising to his feet. Kubota was watching Akatsuki's expression, it was still composed and he not lost his will to fight.

"......Good."

Kubota muttered.

Not that he had asked him directly, but Kubota Kaito knows what Ousawa Akatsuki's goal is and what he is fighting for.

-- And perhaps what he will do in the future.

That's why, for the possibility of teaching Akatsuki he put in a debug mode.

"The goals you set for yourself and the ideals you set for yourself to live by... ... however only a very small number of people are able to keep that willpower. Ousawa Akatsuki, if you really are unwilling to compromise, if you really are unwilling to back down –-"

Kubota pointed at the screen towards Akatsuki.

"That's a hero's aesthetica, the power to overcome all obstacles. At least that's how the man standing before your eyes did it."

He paused for a moment.

"Gouki's program is based on a tenth of his power during those days. Even if you beat a higher dimensional being during the ranking tournament comparable in strength, maybe even stronger. If you can't win against that Gouki, how can you possibly stand in front of that man now?"

Part 8

When Miu finally opened her eyes it was already noon.

However, that was not the reason she overslept.

It was because last night's "Test of courage" stimulation was too strong.

When Akatsuki was half asleep, he mercilessly gave the four pleasure until they collapsed from the bliss.

The girls were incapable of resisting, they had no choice but to accept it and fell into a deep sleep.

Only Kuzuha was able to escaped the magic hands of Akatsuki, however it was Chikage that brought the essential oil that led to the drunken deep sleep state. The only exception was Haruka.

Haruka had woken up, and had already left the Ousawa home. She did leave behind a note however.

It said she borrowed the bathroom, and had a prior engagement to get to.

Haruka seemed to have escaped any damage of sexual berserker mode of the half asleep Akatsuki.

Miu herself didn't know how she did it.

......Umm...... I can't remember much of anything......

At that time with Chikage and Listy, Miu's body and mind were completely under the control of the raging storm of pleasure by Akatsuki. After losing consciousness, it was no wonder that she couldn't remember what happened last night.

Akatsuki had already got up before everyone and had gone out. She thought that he mentioned something about needing maintenance for Sleipnir, so now he should be Babel. However, the truth about last night is now more and more of a mystery.

-- However, at the bottom of the note, Haruka wrote "Everyone defended with their lives!" After reading that, Miu was comforted a little. Akatsuki did do other things, however she is afraid to find out exactly what.

"......"

Just when Miu was contemplating.

"......Ousawa-san?"

Suddenly, someone called her name. She turned and looked towards the voice to find it was Kuzuha. Miu quickly regained her awareness.

"Oh, s-sorry. It's nothing, I'm just staring into space....."

Miu had stopped moving her hands. Right now, Miu was combing Kuzuha's hair using a brush.

Because of Akatsuki teasing last night, everybody woke up with a lot of sweat. Like Haruka the first thing they did was have good bath. The four girls divided into two groups, the first was Miu and Kuzuha.

After they bathed, it was Listy and Chikage's turn to use the bathroom. Miu and Kuzuha were fixing their appearance.

.....She called me Ousawa-san, Ah .....

Miu stared at Kuzuha's back sitting in front of her, Miu concealed her inner regret.

After wake up this morning, she had gone back to how she normally calls her name. Apparently, it seem that she doesn't remember a thing from last night.

That was probably impossibility anyway. Kuzuha at that time got fairly drunk off the effects of Chikage's aroma. But, at last Kuzuha, who doesn't let out her feelings, expressed her true feelings. After finally learning her true feelings, she still couldn't do anything.

...... Of course not.

Miu nodded.

"Hey....."

She took the initiative to talk to her irreplaceable friend sitting before her:

"Kuzuha......your hair is very beautiful."

Then,

"Huh--? "

Kuzuha turned her head back to look at Miu.

She had a slightly surprised expression, Miu sat there nonchalantly.

"Are you feeling alright, Kuzuha?"

This was the second time she called her by her first name with a calm tone.

However, since Kuzuha has no recollection of what happened last night, so Miu's move was very abrupt.

Kuzuha's inner desire had unexpectedly come true, and in that moment her cheeks turned red.

"...... No, nothing."

She turned her face forward looking somewhat embarrassed. After seeing such cute behavior, Miu put on a mischievous smile.

"Huh? Kuzuha, somehow your face is all red."

She softly hugged Kuzuha from behind, and lightly tokes her cheek.

Miu actions were implying that she also wants Kuzuha to call her by her name.

Then without a choice Kuzuha sighed.

"Its annoying to say nothing ... ... Miu."

Although the tone somewhat awkward, Kuzuha finally address her as Miu.

Then Miu smiled more brightly and pulled Kuzuha in closer.

No matter how precocious, Kuzuha is still just a kid.

-- And such a cute one at that.

Miu like a spoiled child began to tease Kuzuha.

"One more time Kuzuha ......okay, I want you to call me Miu again."

".....Unpleasant, hurry up and help me with my hair."

"Unless you call me Miu. Come on, hurry up."

"Don't just push someone's head into your chest, okay? You cow."

"Don't be like that! Your response is too cold now!"

Kuzuha said in a awkward way, Miu instinctively raised her voice resentful.

At this time ......

"–-Help, save me!"

The living room door suddenly flung open, and Listy ran in only with a bath towel.

"L-listy-san what happened? "

Miu asked, however Listy only blushed.

"Chikage said she wanted to wash my back, but then –-"

"Oh......""......It's not surprising. "

Both Miu and Kuzuha somewhat understood, as their eyes met for a second.

"There was no need run out so fast, was there?"

Chikage also followed wrapped up in a towel with a wry smile on her face.

After seeing Chikage, Miu can't help thinking--Chikage really had changed a little.

Maybe some weight came off her shoulder's, she looks happier than she was. Thinking back, Chikage has always been considerate of other people's needs. Although her behavior now seems to Miu a little unnatural.

......Must be that person did something.

Miu let out an smile filled with trust.

Akatsuki didn't simply sexual harass everyone last night, rather created a situation in which everyone would have to band together with Chikage, through actions and words to completely free her heart.

The same way that person help Miu up till now.

While she thought "Thank you Akatsuki" in her heart, Miu can't help but say:

"Chikage-san that's no good.....because Listy-san isn't immune to that sort of thing yet."

"From the sound of that sentence, it seems that you have produced immunity, right Miu ....."

Kuzuha said, then......

"Eh--" "Oh ......"

Listy and Chikage both noticed the change in Kuzuha at the same time, and both opened their eyes wide.

Chikage respond immediately.

"You said? Oh ....... "

"..................W-what?"

Chikage now has mischievous smile, as if finding a new toy to play with.

She leaned in close to reduced the height difference to Kuzuha eye level.

"Oh, hello there miss heartless, Kuzuha ..... earlier you called Miu by her first name."

"Uhm..... If you don't mind, can I also call you by your first name."

Kuzuha face turned red as she looked away from the embarrassment.

"Chikage ...... Like that, right?"

But ......

"With this perfunctory tone, how are you going to heal my broken heart?"

"......Then what do you want me to do?"

Kuzuha asked timidly while glancing up at Chikage.

"Well.....call me Chikage-oneechan in a exceptionally cute voice."

".......O-okay. You can get lost right now, stupid."

"Wow, rebellious."

Chikage smiled wryly, then shrugged her shoulders and stood up immediately.

"Listy, we haven't finished washing yet, come back to the bath with me."

"B-but wait..... Chikage？"

Chikage ignored the confused glances from Listy, and grabbed her by the shoulders and forced her out of the living room.

While watching them interacting in their own way, Miu mumbled: "I'm glad ...... "

Letting Chikage organize a sleep over here, really was the right decision. It looks like everyone got closer after all.

The only regret is probably that Akatsuki and Haruka aren't here right now.

Miu really wants to stick out her chest and loudly tell Akatsuki.

We've become really good friends.

But ......

"......I wonder if Haruka is all right?"

Kuzuha heard what Miu muttered, anxiously she said:

"She said she was going to be over latter, but her friendship with the other members of the student council should be deeper than with us. If a student Council Member strongly urge her to stay, I don't know if she'll change her mind....."

"-- Don't worry about it, Kuzuha."

Miu said so in a assertive tone, because she had an absolute confidence.

Last night we promised to support and help each other from now on.

At that time, in Haruka's eyes wasn't a hint of hesitation nor a lie.

Part 9

Early in the morning when Haruka Nanase left the Ouswa home she made a promise to herself to return.

On the very top floor of JPN Babel was the student council's room.

Currently there was only Haruka inside.

It was already past noon, as Ryohei and Minami were out for lunch.

Although they both invited Haruka, she had turned them down.

In order to protect Akatsuki, and to protect her other friends Haruka was finally going to fulfill the commitment she made to herself after returning from Alayzard.

On her desk sat a plate with her name and her official position on it.

"-- By doing this..... it will be over."

Haruka said as she shut down her computer.

After she was sure that the computer was completely off, she quietly sighed.

Haruka looked around at the items on her desk --

All this in three days, while performing the duties of the student council, she compiled the data by herself.

Who ever takes over after me, will be able to quickly adapt with these documents and materials.

The documents were printed out put in a folder, a folder was saved on a flash drive, and also there was a system backup on the network server.

"Then ......"

Haruka clutched her left breast.

Her uniform had a breast pocket, in which was an envelope.

In a little while, Kyouya will appear in the student council room.

Over the past few days, Kyouya also seemed particularly busy and she did not have the chance to properly talk with him. But yesterday before she went to the Ouswa home she fortunately met him in the hallway. Kyouya had said when he had time to spare he promised to talk with her.

After Haruka looking at her wrist watch, she slowly stood up from her chair and looked around the room. At the scenery she got so used to seeing.

It is place that Haruka Nanase will cherished forever.

"It's laughable.....me resigning. I am reluctant to leave me this place, but it is for the best."

Haruka said, with a wry smile.

The student council vice-president and the discipline chairman, were the important positions that Haruka Nanase held in JPN Babel.

Before Kyouya was a member of the COCOON, who managed this world, he asked her to join the student council -- Haruka immediately accepted the invitation.

-- The young boys and girls who are summoned to alternate world obtain special abilities when they return.

They are the hope for a better future for mankind, however they possess powerful abilities that some people view as extremely dangerous. Their situation can be said to be very difficult.

No matter how reluctant, alternate world returnees cannot change this fact.

To protect the returnees special institutions exists in each country of the G7, just like the special autonomous region of Babel.

COCOON in essence oversees Babel. COCOON regardless of its age is active in the political arena of each country in the world. Their status in Babel is not just a student, but rather chief executives of the plan for the world.

COCOON provides assistance to administer Babel, and all of them are adults.

-- But, throughout the Babel's all over the world the only exception is JPN Babel. Hikami Kyouya did not have to throw away his status as a student, and conducts the management of the organization as a student council president.

Babel protects practically only boys and girls in their teens.

Moreover, these teenagers were suddenly summoned to alternate worlds with no warning. They had to struggle to survive, and desperately fight to find a way back home. After they barely manage to get back to their original world, they are forced into special autonomous regions.

For physically and mentally immature adolescents this is undoubtedly a cruel fate. Only a person in the same situation can begin to understand their inner pain.

In order prevent those returnees from being hurt any further she wanted a student or staff member with a similar viewpoint in charge of Babel's operation, and he was exactly her idea of the perfect candidate.

So when Kyouya asked her, Haruka did not hesitate to join the student council.

If her own power and effort could help their plight even a little -–

Naturally she put her whole heart and soul into it.

Haruka secretly swore.

In addition to the post of the Vice President, she voluntarily took the initiative to be part of the discipline committee. She does not want to see returnees get lost in their own power, or for them to feel inferior and feel that the future is bleak. In an attempt to reduce fights even a little between students, and as the president of the discipline committee she voluntarily stood on the front lines.

She has never regretted how she got to this point, and that wont ever change even in the future.

Haruka Nanase can only boast about her time spent as a member of the student government.

In fact she will continue to use her power to protect all of the students.

......But ......

Haruka closed her eyes, and silently shook her head.

Now, she wants to protect other people.

Also in her heart, she has a new dream.

Ousawa Akatsuki -- Ousawa Miu -- Listy Sherfied

As well as herself, Izumi Chikage and Doumoto Kuzuhais are committed to protecting those three.

She decided to work as one with them, and fight alongside them.

So I don't belong here anymore. After all, concealing Miu and Listy's true identity is in clear violation of policies of Babel and COCOON.

And even if she is on a different path, the members of the student council are still important companions to Haruka. She doesn't want to lie in order to stay near them, that would be tantamount to betraying them.

-- When people in key positions in Babel leave the Office, in order to prevent confidential information from leaking out, magical seals are placed on those memories.

These magical seals can never be removed.

However, Nanase Haruka doesn't care.

When she first joined the student council she was informed on the matter. This way, there will be no doubts of her betraying Kyouya, all of concerns about Haruka would be dealt with.

So in order for her to protect Akatsuki and others with pride it was a necessary step for Haruka.

-- And at last, the moment had finally arrived.

The door to the student council quietly opened.

JPN Babel's student council president, and one of COCOON's supervisors of the world -- Hikami Kyouya walked in.

Part 10

"Hello, were you waiting long?"

When he saw Haruka, Kyouya to put on a smile.

"Not really. The student council President sure is extremely busy. There was still some work left, and I have been using the time to finish it."

Haruka said, and while standing next to her desk,

"I'm sorry, that the President had to take the time out of his busy schedule to come here."

"No harm. You have something important to tell me?"

At the same time as Kyouya asked that he started to move away from the entrance of the room.

Kyouya took the lead, as Haruka waited for him to pass by before she followed after him. He went to the far end of the room, and sat at the desk for the student council president. Kyouya then urged Haruka, standing across the desk, to continue.

"-- So, what's the urgent matter?"

"Yes ......"

While nodding, Haruka pulled out a prepared envelope.

Then she placed the envelope on the table -- in front of Kyouya.

Written on it were the words "Letter of resignation."

"..... When you mentioned you had something important to discus with me, I had an inking of what you wanted."

Kyouya just sized up Haruka's envelope. He said in a calm tone that beforehand he expected this possibility. He had no intentions of opening the envelope.

"Can I hear the reason?"

Haruka lowered her head, when Kyouya looked up at her to ask.

"I'm sorry ... ...Its purely for personal reasons."

Haruka was looking down at the table, deliberately evading Kyouya's line of sight.

"..... That's regrettable."

Kyouya's response was also very brief.

After a short pause, he continued to say:

"Nanase-kun, you are an excellent Vice President and Chairman of the discipline committee. During this crucial time it is undoubtedly a great loss for the student government -- No, it is a great loss for JPN Babel. Those are my sincere thoughts, and not an exaggeration."

He said that while watching Haruka's expression to see if there was any chance she was willing to reconsider.

Then,

"I'm sorry ... ... I'm very happy being so highly praised by the President and I'm very honored, but......"

Haruka gently shook her head.

"......It seems that you are firm in your resole."

"Yes, this is a decision I made after careful consideration."

Haruka looked Kyouya in the eyes, and firmly expressed her own will.

Her decision to resign was her own choice, and it was also the path she wanted to take.

"......"

After Kyouya heard that, he became silent for a moment.

"Well then I have no choice, but to respect your wishes."

With a wry smile Kyouya picked up Haruka's resignation.

"...... So the folders on the desk are the necessary information for your successor?"

"Yes. The red folder is for the new vice president, and the blue folder is for the new chairman of the discipline committee."

Haruka continued,

"The reason for the two folders is that not necessarily will the successor be the vice president and be the chairman of discipline committee, so ......"

"I'm grateful. You certainly are an excellent talent to the end."

Without a choice Kyouya stood up, he changed his bitter smile into a smile.

"Thank you for your support until today, and all the hard work you put in."

Kyouya stretched out his right hand. It seemed to be a replay of the scenes when Haruka was invited to join the student council.

Then......

"Here....."

Haruka slowly took Kyouya's right hand.

Shaking his hand.

"To be able to work with the president was an honor."

After the farewell handshake was complete.....

"I am going to accept this resignation, however I won't processes his right now."

Kyouya also said,

"As you know, the student council is currently preparing for the upcoming system update tonight. Coupled with the memory seal formalities, you must wait until tomorrow to be formally relieved of your duties."

"Yes, that will be fine "

After Haruka nodded, she picked up the succession folders and return to her desk.

"--Oh, and Nanase-kun."

Kyouya suddenly called out to her.

"Something wrong president?"

Haruka turns back, Kyouya had a wry smile.

"In fact, there is one thing I would like you to. I know tomorrow you will be formally resigning so making such a request is a little awkward, but I hope you don't mind."

"It doesn't matter, is it about confirming the readiness of the system update?"

It was work that can be done in the morning together with Ryohei and Minami.

He took for granted that she would continue to work on that other matter.

The fact was Haruka already made up her mind. After all, the preparation before the update such as the confirmations were already done, also any work related to the end of the semester. She didn't want to delay her resignation any further.

But ......

"No......Ryohei and Minami-kun can handle tomorrow afternoon's unpleasantness."

Kyouya also denied what Haruka was thinking.

"I would like you to do another job ... ... Today is good if you have the time, please?"

"Eh? Currently I have no other prior arrangements. If it is within my abilities, then please tell me what the president wants me to do."

Haruka was puzzled as to what Kyouya intended for her.

"I'm grateful, then I wont stand on ceremony."

Kyouya floated a smile.

Haruka slowly asked what her last "work" was.

Translator's Notes and References

Back to Chapter 1

Return to Main Page

Forward to Chapter 3