Kaze no Stigma:Volume1 Chapter4
Chapter 4 - Returning to Visit, and Then―― (帰参、そして――)
1
When a distance of about 10 meters away from the front door.
“K, Kazuma!?”
Facing the embarrassed door guard’s cry, Kazuma looked down upon him with condescension.
(Too slow.)
Really laid-back, in this unsafe time period where there should be a high alert, at this kind of distance and unable to be responsive is really useless to such an unforgivable state.
But, after this the reaction speed is fairly good. Hearing the guard’s sounds of alert, jutsu practitioners waiting in various locations fly out.
After about 10 seconds, Kazuma is already surrounded by 10 or more jutsu practitioners.
“Call forth the Suzerain.”
Kazuma arrogantly commanded, completely ignoring the killing intent from all directions,
“Hearing and complying with the summon, then I will feel very grateful.”
(Appears to be looking for a fight.)
Even though knowing doing so is useless provocation, but completely have no will to control it. Actually should say, that Kazuma suddenly became angry.
Not long after returning to Japan, unhappy situations constantly approach. Brought into a conflict of Kannagi Clan and someone else. Ambushed by don’t know whom, right in front of own eyes Ren gets captured. In order to inform this incident, swear won’t ever get into situations of Kannagi main family.
All this has stressed Kazuma’s nerves, resulting in his extreme annoyances. He wanted to beat the crap out of somebody and it didn't matter who. This kind of mental situation cannot be explain in one line, but Kazuma is currently residing in this kind of mental state.
Furthermore right here there is, idiots asking him, please hit me, even lining up waiting such, Kazuma certainly cannot let go of this opportunity. Breaking this confrontation, among all one idiot steps forward. Maybe it is somebody recognizable, but Kazuma now doesn’t not have the “American time” or the need to go recognize each one of them.
“In this extraordinary time period, you think that you can stand in front of us and begged for mercy…?”
That kind of words, look like fighting to the death trying to control the about to erupt fury.
Not trying to waste time, Kazuma slowly opened his mouth and said.
“Although I said to summon the Suzerain… but it seems like it wasn’t heard?”
“Kisama!” (You!)
Crrackk!
Sounds like a blunt object, angrily firing away fireball jutsu practitioners all didn’t see the like a giant using an uppercut punch sent into the air. The chin was pummeled to pieces, in the strength less to open mouth, spitting out blood mix with broken teeth. (! )
Among the jutsu practitioners have begun to disbelieve and retreat. They, with regards to Kazuma’s attack method, never have seen it before. But also realize that the battle has begun, starting to collect the fighting spirit.
Of course the goal of Kazuma visit isn’t for fighting. Just act that this world would be better off is those idiots were to die — — seems like someone inside his mind continuously to say. Kazuma let that voice persuade him and forget about what should be done.
[Fist of Air] — — blocks of air that are highly compressed, using speed of sound and sent forth. The instance of the contact, about 100 points of air compressed into 1 point instantaneously — —pointing to a certain direction — — recoiling to original state and at same time the strength of that force far exceeding a professional boxer’s finishing blow. The jutsu practitioners couldn’t do anything, one after another was knocked down.
Then continuing combos — — attacking targets without regards to accuracy air bombs in the general direction, digging up the surface, fracturing the wall. The people that were standing were completed knocked down and left laying on the ground.
Kazuma still has his hands in the pockets of his leather jacket, standing there all alone. People that are able to stand and stop him are no where to be found.
The jutsu practitioners are all knocked down on the ground; some have broken lower jaws, some with sunken noses that continuously spew out blood, some moaning about with serious internal damage. Laying around in many different positions, but the common point is that all have no fighting capabilities remaining.
Even though knocking down this 10 or so jutsu practitioners didn’t even take 30 seconds, but Kazuma’s expression did not have the feeling of arrogance. Simply accepting this landslide difference in strength this kind of thing happening is logical certainty.
But, that expression unexpectedly became pensive.
“…Doh…”
Not seeing an uninjured person, Kazuma finally realize that he had committed a deadly mistake.
“Thought carefully, then communicate clearly to these people then this kind of situation would not have happened…”
Before this a phone call would probably accomplished. Also, there is no need to talk directly with the Suzerain. Even if suddenly meet up, in a short time won’t know what to say. This time is only because Ren was captured in front of his own eyes, making him waver, also — —
“Also I, would very like to come back, huh?”
This place in the past where I called home, already abandoned the place I returned.
Kazuma shakes his head, breaks the thought pattern, fearing deepening questing will recall of a quite unhappy answer.
“Hey, wake up. Don’t leisurely sleep on me!”
Kazuma in order to change mood, yelled and kicked the less hurt and younger jutsu practitioner. But, the jutsu practitioner weakly opens the eyes and slow closes them, seems to realize extreme pain so allowing Kazuma do what he likes.
“— — Damn!”
Kazuma abhorrently throws him away then, walks toward the main door. Directly, even if the ground has jutsu practitioner lying around without care stepping on and moving forward.
The door has already opened; because the people that opened the door have been defeated, an opened door is a logical thing. And that place has compared to before more than two times the amount of jutsu practitioners waiting.
At the same time Kazuma stands in front of the door, at the same time 30 lines of fire lines arrive to kill.
Honng!
That kind of enormous amount of heat, transformed into plasma completely surrounds Kazuma. The light from the heat seems to burn even the eyes, jutsu practitioners believe that they have already won.
(We killed him!)
(If like this and still not dead then — —)
(— — already is not human!)
But then in the quitting fire, they saw something that they cannot believe.
“Wh, What?”
Surrounded by the bluish/greenish white flame, Kazuma safely stands inside.
“So boring…”
Kazuma without elaborate procedures waves his hand, removes the collected strength of 30 people’s fires. The strength of the fire and heat completely could not harm a single hair of Kazuma.
“Impossible… Is that guy a youma god… ?”
Now the jutsu practitioners were so shocked it appeared that they had even forgotten about breathing. If they looked calmly, they might have been able to see that the matter separating Kazuma and the flames is a thin layer of air.
High level jutsu-shi can even surpass the laws of physics. No matter if it is an enjutsu-shi or a fuujutsu-shi, igniting a fire where there is no oxygen, blocking the heat transfer in the air is not impossible.
Kazuma has complete control of the surrounding air inside this space; compared with laws of physics his will has primacy. No matter how large the amount of heat, it cannot be transferred to Kazuma’s body.
The requirements in order to be a first rate jutsu practitioner is not strength of the spells, nor the knowledge and technique, but the willpower. To deny the present reality, and having the《willpower》to construct one’s own fantasy world.
Magic Jutsu comes from by mixing your own will into《Initial Principle》, then simply create new laws to control the effects.
Describing it as an obstruction system of the《World》, then writing in procedures in exchange for reality. !
In other words, in order to transfer the flames to Kazuma, would need a strong will in comparison to what Kazuma employed to deny the laws of physics, so what is needed is to use an even stronger will to then deny the《Kazuma fabricated Laws》.
Realistically speaking, if you don’t have a belief of《Will you burn you up》that’s stronger than Kazuma’s belief of《I won’t get burn up》 then nothing will be achieved.
Then when this is not achieved, it can be said that Kazuma’s will is greater than the sum of the will of the 30 people combined.
“Impossible… impossible…”
The jutsu practitioners mumbled with shocked looks.
Ought to say that they can only mumble.
The reasons for the ineffectual jutsu they can also understand; they understand it too well, just like they understand things such as arms and legs.
Of course they didn’t considered Kazuma’s existence as beyond common sense, but only considered him as a first-class spiritual jutsu practitioner. And from that point of view, Kazuma only commanded a huge wind spirit.
Kazuma’s strength has already surpassed what they previously considered, completely achieving another dimension; the difference is clear.
But Kazuma haven’t proceeded to counterattack the jutsu practitioners, naturally it isn’t to forgive them, but from the start he just simply ignored the practitioners from the branch families.
Kazuma from the situation of the practitioners recalls the days spent for 18 years in this mansion, memories of a home that contains almost no happiness. No matter whom, they all disregard him, even to the point of ignoring his existence. Inside such an excessive clan, people that kindly accepting him are almost nonexistent.
Although restricting the thoughts of homesickness, no matter receiving what kind of persecution, after all it’s the place of his roots.
(That’s right… I have returned here…)
Kazuma can’t not deny that kind of thinking, whether ignored, whether bullied, this place also have protected him before. When before entering society, before relying on one’s own effort to survive, protecting him during his childhood.
Hope to be protected, although this is weakness and escapism.
Kazuma recalls 4 years ago when he abandoned weakness although agrees to this truth, but that made him very unhappy. !
(In conclusion, can’t allow this home to continue existing)
Kazuma surrounded by large amounts of《unhappiness》, blaming the roots of evils — — of course by his own stubborn decision — — on the Kannagi main family, and further intends to crush it with his own hands.
Following Kazuma’s will, even bigger wind spirit is summoned, condensing within his palm a wind pressure that can challenge a typhoon.
If he releases all of it, inside an area with a radius of 200 meters all things will be destroyed in a moment. But they already have prepared for thoughts of death.
At this moment Kazuma completely didn’t think about the Kannagi clan or the people living close by; only thinking to erase the annoying things right in front of his eyes.
Even Kazuma himself didn’t notice that he already accumulated quite an amount of pressure. In obtaining this kind of opportunity, Kazuma was already directed by such self-satisfied thoughts.
“Wo… Wah…!”
“What, what is this kind of strength…!”
No matter what, the practitioners certainly have no way to understand what Kazuma was thinking. In front of such crushing strength without even thinking to apply jutsu in resistance just dumbly standing there.
Certainly this is not without reasons, the wind spirits that Kazuma summoned, no matter whether releasing as a jutsu, or an out-of-control rampage, could eradicate this mansion.
“………..”
The older jutsu practitioners without speaking exchanged a look, they in comparison are more unruffled. For them, knowing Juugo, like a sun when younger, isn’t the first time seeing such control of spirits in the category of a natural disaster. Although at that time, felt that (they) could be protected by such extreme strength.
Making an enormous inner determination then making a guess from Kazuma posture, the only remaining method of attack is only one, and there is no other.
Gambling their lives performing summoning of such major proportions, just like what the words proposed it is the last method, and it’s possible it’s a mutual suicide. But they have already prepared for death.
(If only to protect the Suzerain…)
(Before Ayano-sama returns…)
There is none other motive for them in gambling their lives besides trying to defeat Kazuma. Because if Kazuma is standing here, then it can be presumed that Genma was already defeated.
Then in that case, only Ayano would have the ability to fight on par with Kazuma. They gambled their lives in order to gain time for Ayano’s return.
“Let’s go…”
“Waiting a second.”
In the instance before the assault, a calm voice detained them. That voice seems to have immense《power》, all members stopped.
Seems like the time has stopped, in many seconds, nobody moved, in such tranquil space, (one) can only hear sounds of the bamboo hitting the stone.
“Suz, Suzerain!’
“It’s too dangerous! Please withdraw!”
The practitioners all recommended withdrawal to the Suzerain.
Although all the practitioners’ sight was gathered on him, Juugo still walked with ease, while his line of sight is directed at Kazuma.
Kazuma also didn’t avoid Juugo’s look.
Juugo was all the time very gentle with Kazuma, disclosing in the strict words feelings of loving concern. In his shonen era when the surrounding were all enemies, only in the time spent with Juugo could he feel slightly relieved.
Kazuma when facing Juugo is similar to when facing an admired father, in contrast only having terror for Genma.
That kind of ancient yearning again surges, but now Kazuma even if wanting to cry would not have any tears.
Certainly it seems like Juugo completely detected Kazuma’s expression. Just like speaking to a relative that haven’t been seen in a long time, greeting in this manner.
“Long time no see, Kazuma. How’s are you doing?”
“…Ahh”
Knowing that Juugo still believes in him Kazuma laughs like again attaining release from prison.
And seemingly identifying with such, Juugo laughs energetically seeing the typhoon in Kazuma’s hand says.
“If it’s like this, then, what is that thing?”
“Um? Ah, only trying to surpass the past.”
Kazuma clumsily waves his hand, dismissing all the accumulated spirits, even forgetting the etiquette to say thank you to all the spirits.
“Huh? Um, ok, standing here is difficult to talk. Come in for cup of tea.”
Of course like this, Juugo had not thoroughly understood what Kazuma had said, further treating such as neglected mumblings. The practitioners were standing there as if force feed some mute medicine when perceived that Juugo without care turned back facing Kazuma. They probably thought that Kazuma will attack with the back turned.
“S, Suzerain, Kazuma is our traitor!”
Juugo gazed using a very sorrowful appearance at the still not understanding anything practitioners, then slowly turns around facing Kazuma and asked.
“Uh, is it like that?”
“No?”
Kazuma shrugs his shoulder then said, seem like being puzzled by bunch of idiots, having a mouth but can’t explain.
“Looks like it’s like that.”
“No, we can’t trust him!”
The practitioners shouted with voices of dissatisfaction, believing that Juugo had been deceived.
“Calm down, idiots!”
Juugo scolded accompanied by sounds of sighing.
“If Kazuma was serious, will you still be alive? Now do you understand?”
The jutsu practitioners all looked towards Kazuma, that careless appearance, completely could not sense the previous strength that would have knocked them down. Can’t be disputed that the useless man has return as a super first class practitioner.
“— — Say why did you return? Can’t be only for a gathering?”
“Ah, that’s right, there is something to convey.”
Kazuma finally remembered the motive for his approach, although conveying such to someone else is a very humiliating situation.
(Ah, no way out, after all losing the initiative was my fault.)
“— — Ren was seized. A guy using wind, probably a colleague of the person that killed your people.”
“You’re joking! You were the one who killed Shinji and Shingo!”
Kazuma at this time finally encountered the Yuuki family head.
(Other people’s deaths besides the death of his sons are ignored?)
In that instance, suddenly realize his impulsive interruption, no matter what couldn’t be restrained. Then became silent because basically he as a speaker didn’t have any value as an opponent.
“He was seized?”
Juugo also ignored Yuuki’s words questioned Kazuma, in this case was he killed.
“It’s like this, the detailed situation isn’t really clear without doubt still alive is not a mistake. The reason (to still being alive) I think besides the criminal only Ten (天) would know. Came especially to tell you, and are there any leads to who did it?”
“No, not yet, but thank you very much for bring that information.”
Seems like Juugo though of something, facial expression became very serious. The man standing beside — — within Kazuma memories seems like Juugo side or close by — — to him told him something.
Then that man bowed, quickly departed from the house.
“Did you see the features of that guy?”
“… Although it was seen, but feels like it isn’t of much significance, because that isn’t a human appearance.”
Just thinking about it can recall feeling the compelling cold air. Furthermore that kind of irregular youma ki, that kind of thing isn’t possess by human beings.
[image:Kaze no Stigma vol 01 149.jpg|thumb]]
“Is it like that… Say what happened to Genma?”
Faced with Juugo’s question, Kazuma sincerely started to laugh. Unlike a grown man, but laughing like a shonen. That kind of grin cannot be practiced, grin of mischievous child fully covering the face.
Then Kazuma shows his thumb then turns it down, then the chin moving backwards braggingly said.
“Was sent flying.”
“huh, haha, hahahahahahaha ! That, that’s how, was sent flying?”
Faced with this kind of over energetically and without any evil intention reply from Kazuma, Juugo uncontrollably started to laugh, unstoppable roaring laughter.
“Suzerain! This is not a funny matter!”
Faced with unstopping laughter of the Suzerain, the practitioners worriedly admonished.
“Hmm, certainly is like that.”
Then Juugo pulls taut his face, using a severe, unyielding and steadily stare said at Kazuma.
“Don’t tell me, already killed him?”
“Hey, I was quite merciful. I even called an ambulance, quite kind of me!”
“If that’s the case then it’s alright.”
“Absolutely not!”
The person interrupting was, like the practitioner before. Because of too much anger, was dizzily standing there with anger.
“If you body is not well, you can withdraw.”
“My situation is of no importance! If Kazuma knocked Genma-sama, then it is absolutely certain that he is rebelling!”
“… That’s only a father and son argument it is only this kind of crude situation.”
“This… this kind of question is…!”
“Understood, that kind of situation has already been heard earlier. Okay, you can withdraw.”
After Juugo disrupted his words, gestures at Kazuma, then enters through the door. Kazuma simply follows Juugo.
In result just like this, Kazuma returns to where 4 years ago the birth place where he treaded every day.
2
Faced with this mansion where he hasn’t tread since 4 years ago, Kazuma look about slowly and seriously. Inside — — although the outside is the same — — completely have no changes. A mansion constructed during the Warring States Period, certainly in only a short 4 year period there is no changes.
Kazuma continued to follow behind Juugo, without speaking continued to walk along. The place that he was brought to was Juugo’s private room.
“Here we can talk straightforwardly, what would you like to drink?”
“It doesn’t matter, besides I’m not thirsty — —.”
With regards to Kazuma’s casual reply, Juugo seems to stare at Kazuma as if looking for something.
“Hm, don’t you trust me?”
“Not that I’m suspecting you.”
Suddenly a discordant atmosphere spreads throughout.
Indeed viewing Kazuma from the point of view of the Kannagi clan, there can’t be found even one shred of reason to believe him, without saying now besides Juugo, basically all members believe that he is murderer.
Then it is to say, this is base of the enemies pursuing Kazuma’s life. To appear in such a place, really is unbelievable.
“Why did you leave the house?”
Juugo breaking the silence said. Only this is what he would like to hear about the most.
“Only heard that you were disowned, leaving without discussing a single line with me. Am I this untrustworthy?”
“Ah— — this kind of circumstances entirely hadn’t considered, at that time without delaying an instant quickly leaving Kannagi clan. Furthermore, both otou-san and oka-san both said together《not needed》, then besides leaving there isn’t another way right?”
“What did Miyuki say?” This kind of condition was only heard for first time, Kazuma had seen his mother before leaving home.
“Now thinking about it, it was such foolish matters, it’s not you, I was requested by that woman. Go together to apologize, at that time, I still fancied that still had my parents concern.”
Kazuma crooked his mouth, ridiculed himself of the past.
It’s not about hating Miyuki, but him being too foolish. He that took things such as ties of blood, things such motherhood to be absolute.
“What did Miyuki… say?”
Juugo’s voice seems to be sent from a far distant place but unsure where, bringing Kazuma back to that day 4 years ago.
Kazuma when first entered his mother’s room, couldn’t not calm down, constantly waiting for his mother’s reply.
In contrast, Miyuki with a type of tranquil attitude sitting opposite was absolutely not affected, simply showing the same composure as when idly chatting.
Although it felt like an absolute eternal silence, but in reality it isn’t even 1 minute, then slowly saying towards the son that came to ask for help.
“Kazuma, your learning is very good, physical education is quite above normal; the teacher from the school also praises you!”
“Oka, Oka-san…”
Miyuki’s words greatly failed Kazuma’s hope, due to being requested by Genma, this is like… !
“It’s very regretful, if you had qualities for en-jutsu, then (I) can treat you as a worthy son and then deeply loved and concerned.
This is like… biding farewell.
Kazuma realize that Miyuki was continually discussing events of the past, for her everything is over. The situation where her son was disowned, accepting this knowing this is a reality that can not be changed. Don’t need a useless son, without hesitation abandoning him.
“Oka-san…”
Faced with the son begging for help with a quaking voice, Miyuki smiles as she hands him a card.
“Inside there is 10 million, although it is a small amount, but it can still fulfill the needs of your life. Don’t get sick, should stay alive energetically.”
Those were already the words of departure. Kazuma like escaping fled to his room then, the second day, without almost anything solely one person left home, seems like no one even noticed.
Then leaving Japan, that wasn’t done as choice for one’s survival.
Was afraid, when pronounced as a useless unneeded person, and in order to accomplish such things parents were like monsters such as youma. !
Going to a place where their hands cannot touch. Although he also understands, they wouldn’t pursue him, but his body could not accept this reality.
When arriving at Hong Kong, Kazuma for the first time could unwind, and that it is the tragedy that occurred in that place that he completely did not notice.
“Ahh, probably is like that.”
“……………..”
Juugo did not say anything, burying his head in deep thought, the woman who used to like to indulge in flights of fancy, was truly unthought-of to do such things…
“Ahh, there is not need to focus on this, after all they are already circumstances of the past.”
“…truly tenacious, Kazuma.”
Juugo said with this kind of meaning. 4 years ago that youth who was like a useless pronoun, became an outstanding man, possessing a large power and having the mental strength to control such power, Juugo felt very happy.
Although he really will like praised him from his heart, but first it not viable without washing away the suspicions, everything starts from now.!
“…What…”
“Is it not enough? Why do it until such a degree in order to pursue power?”
But, contrary to Juugo’s thoughts, it appears that Kazuma with regards to his current power is still not satisfied. Is it still like that kind of greedy unrelenting pursuit of power, carry some fraction of criticism. !
But the appearance from Kazuma eyes showed that he hasn’t fallen into drunken pursuit of power; just like a lost and desperate youth trying to find a place to repose.
“Indeed have become stronger… nor cry anymore. In order to achieve that even if betraying the soul to devils is not a problem, absolutely cannot allow me remaining weak.”
Kazuma said while hiding his head with two arms encircling the one raised knee.
That day where he was cried feebly, pupils frozen by hopelessness and horror, still clearly remembered until now, certainly won’t forget it in all his years.
(Couldn’t do anything…)
No matter what kind of crazy assiduous training, several times on verge of the boundaries of death, yet impossible to return to that moment, and yet couldn’t save……. her.
— — Why do you pursue power.
That question Kazuma himself cannot even reply.
In order to prevent tragedies from happing again?
In order to protect better this time?
No
That kind of ideas cannot not satisfied oneself, she cannot return once again — — being blocked by the bottom of hell.
— — why do you pursue power?
(Don’t know!)
There aren’t any reasons, and there aren’t any motives. Only to possess abilities; power instep with the wind spirits, an ability in the Kannagi clan that definitely will not bloom nor produce fruit.
— — Why do you pursue power?
“… Once wanted to protect…”
Muttered like when squeezing toothpaste, at the end, still couldn’t say such. Because still could not overcome. There will be one day, until when discovering the real meaning of power— —
Juugo didn’t say anything, quietly watching Kazuma.
(“…Once wanted to protect…”)
Juugo didn’t know Kazuma’s past, only can imagine it. The meaning of unable to complete a promise, so far the wound that still hasn’t recovered.
“This time, like this, when the situation concludes let’s drink a glass, you can chose the place.”
Even just listening to such will certainly producing unrest. Vomiting things that are already eaten, maybe there is some expectation. Juugo in past being《father》supporting《son》, although don’t know until what degree. !
“Ah, alright”
Kazuma calmly smiled, hiding the until today still bleeding wound.
3
“Suzerain, the information is here.”
Suddenly from the other side of the pull door a sound was transmitted. Juugo immediately gave him permission to enter.
Entering through the pull door was the man that was previously commanded by Juugo to go do something. In the hand was a folder.
“It’s this one.”
“Hm”
Juugo accepted the file then slowly and indifferently opened it, then passed the information to Kazuma.
“Although only having a 10 year old picture… is it this person?”
“— — Ah, that’s right.”
Seeing the photo that accompanied the information, Kazuma immediately replied. This shonen through the ten years, adding on to himself the ki of youma that could send shivers down the back, becoming that kind of monster.
(Hey, that means, that that thing used to human?)
“Is it like that? [helper], go detain all the Fuuga clan members, quick!”
“Yes!”
Juugo eyed Kazuma still looking at the photo, then to that man — — gave commands to [helper]. [helper]’s being immediately disappear, just at the words have described, disappearing very prettily and without a trace.
“That person… what kind of person is he?”
Kazuma seeing the place where [helper] was one instant before, dumbly mumbled. How the person moved, seems to not understand.
“My attendant, don’t you know?”
“No.. uh… that kind of things don’t matter.”
Juugo smiled happily and quietly being able to surprise Kazuma, Kazuma also gave up the questioning.
Again moving his eyes back onto the file, discovered on there it is written one name, Kazamaki Ryuuya.
(— —Kazamaki?)
That is the last name of the Fuuga captain.
“This guy is the son of Hyoue. About 10 years ago, due to sickness after the recovery I haven’t seen him even once.
“So that’s how it is, rebellion, gah? Tormented them too much?”
From the limits Kazuma’s knowledge, although the Fuuga clan is described as a subordinate organization of the Kannagi clan, but in reality it is no different from slaves, that is the reason that created the rebellion.
“Maybe it is like that.”
Juugo’s voice became very grave. Such things as rebellions are much more problematic compared to attacks from exterior enemies. Being a suzerain having headache is part of the job.
On one side, for Kazuma this is completely someone else’s problem. No matter what the problem is there is no connection with him. In conclusion the first thing to think about is to rescue Ren, whether the Kannagi clan survives simply doesn’t interest him.
“Then, why did the Fuuga clan kidnapped Ren? As a hostage his value is quite insignificant?”
Although Ren is from the main family of the Kannagi clan, his existence is not irreplaceable. It is arguable if it was Ayano as the successor of the Enraiha, but using Ren as a hostage will not force the Kannagi clan to move carefully and avoiding rash acts.
“It’s not to become a hostage … but a living sacrifice!”
“You said living sacrifice!?”
Unpredictably the old scars are torn anew, Kazuma face became very red.
— — Maroon hair dyed red by fresh blood, the deep green eyes which was once overflowing with life is now blurred like old glass marbles. Lips that seem to create songs will never open again — —.
《You、can you protect me?》
(Rin ------!)
Kazuma tightly clenches his fists; the pain from the fingernails breaking skin brings him back to reality.
(Forget it! Now only is also fine!)
Kazuma punched the floor with his fist which was dripping blood, breathe filled with lots of frustration.
“Sorry, I interrupted you, please continue…”
Kazuma suddenly stopped talking and looked through the window towards the outside. Although it was only late by a couple seconds, Juugo also looked at the same direction; he also noticed that kind of ki of fire spirits that was increasing explosively.
“Ayano…?”
Walking close to the window and seeing Kazuma’s form, directly jumping in through the window furthermore one hand holding the Enraiha was Ayano’s posture.
“Kazuma!!”
Ayano after visually confirming Kazuma’s position, shouted and raised the Enraiha to the Jodan no Kamae position.。(Note: Jodan no Kamae is attacking position in kendo, where you hold the ken above your head.)
Then without any doubts or hesitation swings downwards. Without paying attention to the surrounding environment, this kind of decisive decision making is quite commendable!
“Hey!”
Kazuma was also surprised by this kind of sneaky attack; couple seconds, although the reactions was late by only a couple seconds. But that is already a deadly delay. In order to receive the thousands degrees of plasma attack, although having constructed a kekkai…
(Damn, not enough!)
The number of spirits was absolutely inadequate.
Spiritual practitioners when interfering with the《Initial Principle》, is to use the spirits within one’s control to alter the environs.
In order to do that, without spirits or without accumulating spirits of enough strength, then no matter how strong the will, it is still impossible to realize.
No matter how strong is the will, it will not transform into real power if you don’t use this world’s medium for guidance. No matter how strong is the curse, only with this, people will certainly not die.
The scorching plasma already severed the kekkai, this is a strength that the branch families cannot even compare. Just like arrival of the sun. No matter how fast Kazuma can summon, in this short time frame there is no way to create a strong enough kekkai.
The kekkai that existed outside the room was destroyed; plasma contacted the glass of the window. Unable to withstand a pincer attack of both wind and fire; the window frame, even the constructed material of the wall is weathered and about to collapse.
(Damn, about to get stabbed)
In the instant that Kazuma without doubt sensed the danger to his life
"Huh!!!"
A fierce kiai assails, turning the plasma, which could evaporate Kazuma into dust, into something like a dream disappearing without a trace.
“Quite powerful?”
Kazuma from deep within praised Juugo, Juugo not only seized the spirits under Ayano’s control, but by using a strong kiai completely sent them away without a trace.
It really is willpower beyond normal people. —— Although already retired from the very front line, but that power that was proclaimed as the strongest in history hasn’t not diminish.
“Otou, Otou-san?”
Although unclear of the reasons, but sensed that Juugo wasn’t very happy because of her own actions. Look as if spying around for a chance to flee, bending the back while retreating backwards.
But, that chance will never come.
“This, you big fool!!!”
“Ah!”
As if the angry roar punched the entire body, Ayano like a little child fearful rolled into a ball.
That roar was so loud to a degree that was hard to believe. The wall that avoided the disaster started to shake. If there glass that remained, it would also be shattered by the sound’s attack. That roar was such a roar with this kind enormous force.
“This idiot daughter! I don’t know how many times I told you don’t swing that sword around without thinking! You still don’t understand that the one that holds the Enraiha should not using casually and carelessly use strength! At least have some intellect to accompany the strength! Idiot!”
“Ah…”
Faced the heartless reproach from her father who almost always was very gentle and nice, Ayano couldn’t even stand, so shocked that she fell towards the garden with her butt to the ground, as if about to cry with her eyes starting to moist.
Then Juugo again faced Kazuma, apologizing for his daughter’s reckless behavior.
“Sorry, my daughter did something disrespectful, very sorry… hmm?”
Kazuma who should be standing besides wasn’t there. As if noticing something and then looking downwards, the position of Kazuma using his two hands covering his ears enter his sights.
“What are you doing? ...”
Faced with Juugo’s surprising question, Kazuma used a hoarse sounding voice replied.
“Nothing… Next time if you are going roar like please warn a little. Almost scared me to death…”
Although Ayano who was several meters away also felt the loud voice that would expand you bones, but in comparison with the impact Kazuma felt who was at a very close distance, that is simply incomparable.
The thing that Kazuma felt, compared with sound was closer to shockwaves. Although the ear membrane was numbed the brain is still ringing, the membrane can’t block that kind of strong waves from penetrating the body.
“… even the brain is broken by that.”
Kazuma stood up unsteadily. Although the brain is ringing from reverberations that sounds like percussion instrument, but he ignores them with his willpower.
"Let’s continue, please ignore that idiot daughter."
Kazuma sits down at that spot and doesn’t move, then acts calmly and says. The ossicles are numb until now; to keep standing isn’t a very easy matter. (Note: Ossicles or three ear bones are found in the ear.
“…No, Ayano only doesn’t know what going on, let her listen it will be easier for me.”
After a slight hesitation, Juugo calls Ayano over. Ayano give thanks to Enraiha then hangs it in a crevice in the wall, then closes in the distance to Juugo bows and lowers her head.
“… Ayano.”
“I’m very sorry.”
Ayano immediately get on the ground and bows, although not really clear about what’s happening, she preemptively selects this in order to apologize.
"That’s enough, in the future pay more attention!"
Juugo doesn’t want to repeat this topic, because right now isn’t the time for it.
“Listen closely, Ayano. The guilty one isn’t Kazuma, it’s the Fuuga clan!”
“Fuuga? What can that kind of weak people do…?”
Juugo slightly glanced at the interrupting Ayano telling her to be quiet.
“The one that did the act was Kazamaki Ryuya, but more accurately it was the youma that possesses him.”
“It doesn’t matter on that side, what is going on with Ren becoming a live sacrifice?”
Kazuma hurried the topic. At that instant, Ayano again interrupted.
“What is this? Ren was captured?”
《You should be quiet!》
Juugo and Kazuma accidentally and perfectly said at the same time. Ayano pouted very unhappily, but given her recent disrespectful behavior and actions her current situation is in a weak spot, so without better ideas she could only sit there quietly and listen.
“Then continuing what was discussed before. Say, the ancestors of the Fuuga and Kannagi were doing completely different things — —.”
(That’s also right.)
Kazuma mumbled to himself. Things manipulating the wind and manipulating the fire, so the composition of the strength is different, the characteristics are also different. Compared with the same clan, the Kannagi clan absorbing the Fuuga clan is quite natural.
“That was a occurrence of already 300 years in the past, at that moment the Fuuga clan was proud of themselves for being able to manipulate strong and powerful wind. While living in the shadows assassinating, cheating, destructive type of jobs, and a shadowy organization that in order to accumulate wealth they would do all jobs no matter what kind. But too much of these kind of evil deeds were done, and the Kannagi clan was given a direct order from the shogunate to proceed to eliminate them.
At the final period of the strenuous battle, finally our ancestors sealed the source of power of the Fuuga clan, then absorbed as the Fuuga clan who had lost most of their powers as followers.
“What is the source of that power?”
“— — it’s god!”
Although Juugo’s reply was simple and quick, but in order to understand the meaning of such took the other two many seconds.
“God~~!”
Kazuma glanced at Ayano who emitted a sharp sounding voice. Although Kazuma was also surprised, but due to Ayano’s earlier wavering, allowed Kazuma to again return to tranquility.
“That kind of thing, what do you have to do to seal it?”
Kazuma would like to hear this kind of situation is not without reason. After all evaluating from with a human’s rational, human sealing god, this kind of situation is quite impossible to achieve.
What is here mentioned as god, is not a creator that a religion adheres to, but instead it is a general term for something or someone that surpasses all existence. Just like the words described, surpassing mankind is the reason to be termed as god, in contrast, able to be defeated by mankind would not be a god. 《Humans sealing god》this phase itself is contradictory.
“This kind of situation is only passed down through oral stories through the generations, what really happened I’m not too sure… Probably, without borrowing the power of the King of Spirits is impossible.
What is referred to as a the King of Spirits, just like the words represent is the king of the spirits, governing all the existence of all the spirits of this planet, although it is speculated there exist earth, water, fire and wind this 4 types. Of course, no one has determined whether they all exist.
About a 1000 years ago, the first suzerain of the Kannagi clan and the King of Fire Spirits was able to achieve a covenant, and was gifted the Enraiha. Then due to blood relationships, the Kannagi clan received an ability to strongly perceive the power of the fire spirits, at least the legend is like this.
Truly if you have the power of the King of the Spirits, then it is not impossible to seal a god — —.
“But, even if the suzerain of 300 years ago again contracted the King of Spirits, but being human using that kind of power is limited, also you can’t surpass a god. Could you just directly summon the King of Spirits?”
“— — that kind of action, is impossible isn’t it?”
Let a king that exists in the upper world, directly descending onto this world. That event can be described a miracle which surpasses common sense. Even in theory it is still impossible, so given Ayano’s questioning Kazuma coldly replied.
“What would happen? Well, at least I cannot achieve that kind of matters.”
“We already know that a long time ago!”
“Back to the topic, Hyoue motive is to revive that god?”
Kazuma gritted his teeth and continued to ignore Ayano hurrying Juugo to continue explaining.
“Probably, about the entirety of the sealing, it’s passed down secretly through the generations of suzerains. Doing this kind of rebellion, it means that they probably found the place of the sealing and the method to remove the seal.”
As Juugo said this, his facial expression also becomes more impatient. This is not without reason, because if the sealed god is released then the Fuuga clan will receive a strength comparable to that of the Kannagi clan, also at the same time unmistakably is that the wrath of the god will descend.
“— — Then, Ren would become a tribute to recently revived god?”
Kazuma in comparison is much more calmed, after all he doesn’t have any obligations to help in the survival or destruction of the Kannagi clan. If things were really to change like that, simply running away is what Kazuma is thinking. Because for him matters such as running away are something he has absolute confidence in.
“No, in order to remove the seal Ren is needed, I should say that a main family member from the Kannagi Clan is needed.”
Stopping Kazuma from speaking Juugo then continued to say.
“Only the main family members can remove the seal. Because the seal is inside Samadhi Flame.”
What a Samadhi Flame means is a crystallization of a《fire》that doesn’t have any corrupting factors, a pure flame that should not exist in this world, whatever comes in contact with it, no matter what will be completely burnt, without leaving any ashes.
In order to send away such thing, to come in contact with place of origin of the seal, certainly without a Kannagi main family member would be impossible
“But, if the fire is a hindrance then you can directly blow it away, even if it is a Samadhi Flame, if I can do it, probably that guy also can.”
“The seal is inside the fire.”
Juugo again repeated what was just said, as if testing Kazuma.
“Then it is… hey, isn’t that?”
“That’s right, the fire is sealing that god, if the fire is blown away, the sealed god’s form will also disappear, so without those protected by the fire, removing the seal is impossible.”
The suzerain of that time established several layers of security for the sealing. The existence of the sealing is shrouded in a high degree of secrecy; the process of the absorption of the Fuuga clan was erased from the memory. For both the Kannagi and Fuuga, it appears that such matters never occurred.
That seal cannot be remove through the Fuuga clan is absolutely certain, if it was not done to such a degree, probably the shogunate that desired the destruction of the Fuuga clan would not accept the results.
“If the first thing the released god sees is the descendant of the person that sealed oneself. I would fear to think about what Ren would be transformed to”
“So that how it is… really, in the beginning if they were to completely wiped them out then there won’t be such annoying matters.”
“You… don’t you have things such as compassion for fellow humans?”“
From Ayano’s voice one can see that she completely doesn’t hide the inner despite for Kazuma
“Compassion for fellow humans?” You… do you really think that the Kannagi friendly rescued the Fuuga?”
“What, what is it, isn’t it like that?”
“Wind can strengthen fire, and as practitioners of lower standards, using them as subordinates will be more suitable?””
What Kazuma said was obviously pointed towards Juugo. Because right now using persuasive excuses concealing is useless, so Juugo honestly told them the truth.
“That’s right; our ancestors really used the Fuuga clan as a tool, additionally as very convenient tools…”
“No way…”
“Hey, from the standpoint of a slave matters such as rebellion is certainly a right, it’s a justice a revenge against you guys!”
“What, why are you speaking about it as if it is other people’s matters, Ren dieing is also of no consequence?”
Ayano gritted her teeth and angrily said to Kazuma with his sarcastic and unimpressed expression.
“Also Ren is also a practitioner of the Kannagi clan, it is impossible that he follows Hyoue commands.”
“That … it’ impossible!”
“What!?”
Kazuma ignoring Ayano who was ready for thorough argument then, said to Juugo.
“No matter how’s Ren’s talent, at this moment it still haven’t pass the 12 hour mark, but manipulating him will be quite easy, if there a day’s time then, probably would able to get him to kill his own parents.”
The calm and direct explanation really quieted the two Kannagi.
Brainwashing and possessing, there are many methods as desired. Although the strength of the Kannagi clan resides in the lineage, but it isn’t practical such as the body, even when losing conscious, or possesses by youma, the spirits will still protect Ren’s body.
“If we don’t hurry, then if the seal is released, there would be no way back. Before this we must rescue Ren.”
“Please work hard!”
Like adding water to the fiery Juugo who just made an insistent statement, Kazuma used a manner of speaking that showed that the matters do not concern him.
Ayano furrowed her forehead, thinking that people like him who don’t have a sense of responsibility are the one she really dislikes. People that have the ability but are not willing to do anything, compared to those without abilities are rotten at the core, Ayano often thinks like that.
“Don’t need you to remind me! Even without borrowing you power, I’ll show you, I alone am enough!”
“…Wait a moment!”
Juugo constrains her daughter’s aggressive manner, not because he suspects Ayano’s strength, but because it involves the clan’s survival, plenty of battle power is still useless.
“Kazuma, can you defeat Ryuya?”
“…very difficult, even optimistically won’t be able to last for 5 minutes.”
After slight consideration Kazuma replied candidly. He frequently uses an objective self-evaluation method to assess himself, meaningless over-evaluating oneself is a very dangerous matter, this is something learn from his past experiences.
“Is that true…?”
In Juugo’s brain an inequality is developed like this: Ryuya > Kazuma > Genma > Ayano, which means that Ayano alone will have no possibility of winning.
“Yare yare, where did they summon such upper level youma is quite unclear, an extremely powerful youma ki, in the interior of China, a vampire of 3000 years is still not comparable with it.”
“You, you can even beat… that kind of thing?”
In Juugo’s expression there is probably more incomprehension than astonishment.
“Don’t be a fool; there is way to fight against that. Patted my ass then tuck my tail in and then ran away.”
Kazuma using a mischievous tone avoiding the continuing questioning, because those were memories he does not want to recall, diverting the topic back to the original discussion.
“The problem is that that guy uses a wind that is not normal.”
”…What does this mean?”
“What is not normal is, although I don’t know how the way nature developed that thing, but the spirits around that fellow are all going crazy. Because of this I can’t interfere from that side, can’t even sense it. If he hides himself, it will be only when at very close distances and just before being attacked will I be able to sense it.”
“That’s quite… really bothersome!”
Juugo worriedly mumbled.
Spirits does have ability and wisdom, although unable to be differentiated they still have will. So, they will also get angry like human beings.
Putting spirits in a situation completely opposite its own characteristics for a long period of time — — such as putting fire spirits in water, sealing wind spirits in the ground — — will cause them to go crazy, this is something that is a fact that has already been confirmed.
But — —
“That kind of thing, how would you control them?”
Because they already lost their conscience, of course they wouldn’t be able to hear the words from a human — — probably.
“Who the hell knows, they are not normal similar types, of course there isn’t similar topics to talk about!”
Kazuma replied in very vague manner.
“To do it, maybe Ayano’s attributes would be better Compared with wind fighting wind, fire would be the main attacking force. Using the Enraiha from inside the body and then proceeding to burn, no matter how strong will still die.”
“Then you’re saying that you don’t want to help?”
“Only dislike working.”
“I’ll pay 100 million!”
”Thanks for the job.”
Without any hesitation, Kazuma agreed to the contract.
This is not because the huge amount of money blurred his vision. Asking for remuneration is to give him a reason so that he isn’t an outsider in regards to this situation. Of course, he will take what is his, but he joining in battle has already become an inevitable reality.
“You’re terrible, without money would you abandoned you brother?
In Ayano’s words were full of despite, Kazuma only grinned without reply.
Used to think that he was a《good person》, that would moved by people dear to him, but in conclusion describing him as a miser will be much better. Of course Ayano’s despite for Kazuma is unnoticed by Kazuma himself.
“Then, please.”
“Ah, leave it to me.”
Glancing at Ayano who as if about to shoot lasers from her eyes, the two men shook hands on the agreement.
Juugo certainly understood Kazuma’s purpose, in order for him to have a corresponding standpoint, using 100 million yen in order to sustain this kind of thing.
(Really can’t beat him…)
Juugo really felt that Kazuma’s consideration is not the same as before.
“Then, where is that place concretely?”
By now besides this there is no further question. Faced with this kind of direct question, Juugo also simply replied.
“Kyoto!”
In the northwest of Kyoto, the ceremonial mountain of the fire god; that location is a sacred place of the Kannagi clan, the contractual place where the earth has the fire of the heavens burning. Revolving around 300 years past of gratitude and grudges, gambling the two clans existence — — the place of the decisive battle.
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