PART 1
Two and a half hours on the express line from the large terminal in the city
centre.
After that, moving on to a local line for thirty minutes.
Four hours after they left the Toujou home, Basara and the others arrived at a
particular station.
Passing through the station gates, Basara was greeted by a scenery that was
not much different from that which remain in his memories, "It's been five
years, since I even came to this station…"
It had been five years since they were banished from the village. In that time
neither Basara nor Jin had ever returned.
Feeling a deep sense of nostalgia, he could not help but to let out a
spontaneous mutter.
— But, the place they're aiming to go to is still beyond here. With that, Mio
appeared to stand next to Basara. Locking the wheel of the suitcase that
contain change of clothes and other things needed for their travel, Mio spoke,
"We'll be going on car from here?"
She asked as she took in the scenery that greeted her for the first time. What
Mio was asking was on how they'll get to their destination - the Hero Clan's
Village - from here. Hence, "Yeah, bus or taxi. I'm sure the transportation
network had changed in the last five years but… it should be fine around this
area right?"
As Basara ask this, Yuki, who took to Basara's side on the opposite side of
Mio gave a single nod, "It's fine. As briefed about before, this area had not
changed much since you were last here."
"But it's not climbing season, so a car could only go around halfway there"
Kurumi who was behind them said to supplement Yuki's words. Then, "What
should we do? Should we use my flying magic?"
Kurumi said, offering a different method than cars. It was something Kurumi
had suggested before even coming here. And without a doubt, using magic to
fly is definitely a plausible method.
With a barrier too, they would not have to worry about being seen by onlookers.
…But.
It was not something that could be entirely safe. In a different meaning from
the demon world, this visit is one they must take the utmost precaution for.
Hence, Basara shook his head and spoke, "Let's not do that… At the
moment, it's best to take the most regulated way. We should take regular
transportation until as far as we could"
Going into the mountain in just a bit from here, this area is already within the
Village's territory.
To be discreet and not be seen by normal people, and not reveal about the
hero clan — that is the rule of the Village.
— Of course, there are times where one could ignore regulation for
efficiency.
Cases for flying magic or super seed is not rare.
…However.
Those cases are those permitted by case by the Village. It's also restricted to
the members of the clans. Basara, who had been banished, and Mio, a demon,
is not part of the Village's rules and decorations.
At any rate.
The order for Yuki and Kurumi to return, and to bring Basara and Mio with
them, was without a doubt not one of jubilation and welcome.
"As such, for now Zest-san and I will remain here"
Maria said with a displeased tone. Basara used his right hand to pet the head
of Maria, who was pouting.
"Sorry… The elders asked for just me and Mio. It's not impossible for you
and Zest to come, saying you're our escort but"
Like the demon world, they could not do what the opponent say, and
prioritize consideration for their safety and go against the words of the elders,
that much had always been a choice.
And it was not a wrong way of thinking. But, "No, we must avoid putting
you and the others in a bad spot wherever possible, Basara-sama"
Zest, who had come all this way with Basara said firmly. However, despite
the resolution in her voice, Zest wore a gloomy expression. Most likely, her
true feeling is one the same as Maria, of wanting to go with Basara and the
others.
…But.
Bringing Maria and Zest, who are demons, will somehow serve as a sort of
impetus to the Village. Especially as Basara and the others have a special
connection to the moderate faction of the demon world, and through clauses
of peace that gives them a connection to the current demon lord faction too. If
they're to bring Maria and Zest too — at the worst case, they can't deny that
their current situation might end up being used against them.
For instance if the Village has some sort of secrecy going on in regards to the
demons that leaks out, they'll look to Basara suspiciously. At that moment,
the Village could judge to oppose Basara using how he had brought Maria
and Zest on his own free will, without getting permission from the Village.
…And in that case.
All of the hero clan will see Basara and Mio as dangerous — as their own
secrets are leaked out, it isn't impossible for them to accuse them falsely of
that conduct.
…Although he doesn't want to think about that.
Basara's anxieties came from how he doesn't trust the other party, of thinking
suspiciously. If it was his true feelings, he doesn't want to have misgivings
about his former friends — about his hometown. But, there was no harm in
making sure that he doesn't make any careless mistakes.
…Further
If they act strongly carelessly it could risk causing trouble for Yuki and
Kurumi — and not just them, but the Nonaka house that they were connected
to within the clan. Once instructed to exterminate Mio, Yuki had gone against
the Village's order on that point.
They must avoid making Yuki's standing any worse than it is now.
…That's right.
Think of the different situations that could arise, reading the different leads
that could get to it and have reactions and plan to counter them — then, if
such a thing happens, execute it as quickly as possible. With this, eventually
they would be able to match up an opponent much stronger than them. It's
not over thinking of things that would be unnecessary, but thinking as far as
possible for when it is — it is because of this that Toujou Basara was able to
overcome his adversity up to this point.
"That's the case so, I'm sorry but you two should be on stand-by while we go
there. Are you okay for accommodation?"
"Yes, as you have instructed, Basara-san, we have a reservation at an inn near
the last station we changed at"
Maria answered his question with a smile.
— It wasn't that there is no accommodation near this particular station.
As it was closer to the area of the village, and with how there are still open
inns despite the fact it wasn't mountain climbing season, Maria and Zest
initially wished to stay in this area. In the slimmest case that they may be
required, that would mean that they were able to go to Basara as quickly as
possible.
…But.
If they stay so close to the village, there may be claims that he had them on
reserve for a time. While he must think of a time if something may happen,
Basara did not want to cause issues with the Village. With that, he got their
understanding for them to go back to the other station and to stay at an inn
near there for stand-by. However, "Everyone… if something happens,
contact us and we will be there right away"
"Yeah, I got it…"
That's right — if it comes to it, there's no need to be particular about their
method. They're to meet with Maria and Zest right away and work it out
from there together. Then, after they confirmed each other's movements from
this point.
"Anyway, from here on we will go by bus and taxi. As we have quite a bit of
luggage if it's taxi it'll be pretty tight unless we get a minivan of some sort…
It'll be good if we can get one with good timing but"
As he said that, a SUV approached them, at that moment, "It's one of the
Village's cars…"
Saying that, Yuki thinned her eyes to focus on it. The Village sending
someone to pick them up, wasn't something they did not think about, they
had thought if that was to happen the Village would've arranged for the car to
wait for them before their arrival. Upon arriving and seeing such, they had
thought that the possibility was no longer there but, it could be — that they
were being watched from a distance.
…How difficult.
Being able to outwit Zolgia, Belphegor and other demons, had come from the
fact that they do not know Basara and his group. But the Village knows
Basara. Even though this does not mean that they could read everything about
him, they would be able to read his plans better compared to the demons. He
has to brace himself for this — thinking about this, Basara watched the car
with vigilance.
"Eh…?"
In front of Basara with furrowed brow, the car went past them without
stopping.
"…"
All of them were dumbfounded, as the car went past their backs, the brake
ramp seems to be in a panic as it suddenly stopped with a halt, then stopping
right at their gazes. And then, the door of the driver seat opened, "Hmm…
I'm not used to driving after all "
A man came out shaking his head exasperatedly as he exited the car. Upon
seeing this man, with Japanese-styled clothing and long hair up to his waist
exiting to stand, Kurumi exclaimed, "Eh… D,dad?"
At how his own daughter exclaimed in confusion, the man — Nonaka
Shuuya — said "hi"
easily to them, and then walked towards them, and then, as he arrived in front
of them, "Welcome home… I'm happy you two seem well"
Saying that to Yuki and Kurumi both, he has a relaxed smile. And then to
that, "…I'm home, but why you dad?"
Yuki spoke the words of reunion with a soft look on her face, then with her
question, her expression stiffened, "Is it that strange for a father to pick up his
daughter?"
"…To the point of doing things like driving a car that you're not used to?"
Kurumi said, eying him. At being questioned by his puzzled younger
daughter, Shuya gave a bitter smile.
"Your return this time is an order. As soon as you get to the Village you will
be required to report to the elders right away. In this way, whether you want
to or not you'll be involved in the tension. That's why I wanted a chance to
be able to talk to you personally in this way before all of that. With you girls
—"
And then, his gaze shifted over.
"And with them too"
Saying that much, he fixed his gaze on Basara.
At Shuuya who, from a long time ago — from five years ago, had not
changed much, "Ojisan…" "Basara-kun, it's been a while, you have really
grown"
As Basara searched for the appropriate words for their reunion, Shuuya
remarked on his growth, seemingly happy to see that, his voice nostalgic.
Shuuya's eyes thinned naturally at this. Basara, who stood in front of him,
surely had let him see the past. To the Basara five years ago — the Basara
who at the time was expelled from the Village.
— Thinking of that, he has no reply. He felt he must say something, but it
also seems like saying anything would gloss over the present and the past.
But thinking staying quiet is cowardice, "Ojisan, I…"
Shuuya placed his hand on the shoulder of Basara, who seemed desperately
trying to tie words together, "Surely you have a lot of things to say, piling up
after all this time… It's the same for me too"
But.
"That isn't something that will come with thinking about it. The more you
think, the further away words get from the truth. That will increase the
distance between those who had been apart"
However, said Shuuya.
"There is one thing I must say to you"
"?"
"Welcome home, Basara"
Smoothly, like a breath, the words that left Shuuya's lips were gentle.
"—"
At his own self who was happy of the words given to him, Basara wondered
if he was worthy of such, and his body trembled a little. It was to the point he
was unable to find a reply.
At that Basara, Shuuya grasped onto Basara's shoulder tighter with his
kindness, then, he moved his glance away to the girl beside Basara — and
then he spoke,
"So you're Naruse Mio-san… right?"
PART 2
At the question Shuuya asked quietly,
"…Yes"
Naruse Mio thought, as she bowed down her head lightly, as she responded.
…This person, is Yuki's and Kurumi-chan's dad.
He seemed like a kind man, that was Mio's first impression of Shuuya. From
earlier on, he had given a kind and calming smile towards his daughters, and
he interacted with Basara who was banished from the Village gently. He has
this air which made it hard to believe that he was one of the Hero Clan,
fighting against the demons.
— However, Shuuya's position within the village was not by any means low.
In fact, it was the opposite. Not counting the elders who govern the Japanese
heroes, Shuuya was supposedly one of the most influential voices within the
Village. Mio had received an explanation before coming by from Yuki, about
her parents who she was to meet, as well as the elders of the Village and
other things such as that. She had heard about Shuuya's standing during that
explanation too, and after that she had this thought that Shuuya must've been
a strict person. Of course, it was not that the opposite, in which he seemed to
hold a kind aura meant that he was lacking in abilities. There are a number of
people who has hidden abilities despite how they look at first glance.
…Really.
Mio took a glance behind her. With that, "…"
Maria and Zest, who had been silent all this time — they had taken a step
back as if to not disturb the reunion, but they are vaguely tense. Looking at it
from their perspective as demons, it was natural for them to be cautious when
meeting a member of the Hero Clan for the first time. However, on the other
side, a member of the Hero Clan like Shuuya should have some tension
building in front of the daughter of the previous Demon Lord Mio, and
demons like Zest and Maria, but yet there was no such mood from Shuuya.
— It was not to say that Shuuya had no awareness. He noticed the tension
from Zest and Maria. Even as he stood like this so naturally, there was no
opening to him whatsoever. In his thirties like Jin, it was not yet suitable for
him to be a figure of authority yet, but even so in this Village right now
where Jin had left, Shuuya was a strong candidate for the position of the next
elder. Having that Shuuya come all the way here to pick them up, was
perhaps in a way treating them somewhat like a guest of honor.
"…"
Shuuya noticed the grim expression that came with Mio's silence, and he
smiled sadly.
"It's hard to say not to worry as you're heading to the Hero Clan's Village,
you may end up with some unpleasant memories of our home… That is a
possibility I cannot deny, as unfortunate as it may be"
At those words,
"…Yes, I understand"
She was resolved for that much before coming here. During the incident at
the Demon Realm, knowing their own bad standing, Yuki and Kurumi had
come along. Of course, that was in large part for Basara's sake, but in the
same time it was for Mio's sake too. Up to this point, Mio had been helped
by Yuki and Kurumi of the Hero Clan multiple times.
…That's why.
This time it's my turn, Naruse Mio had thought. She wasn't sure what she
can do. Perhaps, it was even better for her to not be around and she may do
something bad for this. But, if Mio's and Basara's actions may have worsen
Yuki and Kurumi's standings, she cannot run from it. If she was to take such
a cowardly action, she would be ashamed to be by their side from there on.
She would want to avoid that much. At Mio, who clenched her fist as she
vowed that in her heart, "—The place you are to visit now, is an area of the
Hero Clan"
Shuuya spoke once more.
"But, it does not mean that you are without all y. You have my daughters and
Basara. My family and I too, plan to support you as much as we can. Of
course, this isn't something I can absolutely guarantee. But, I would be happy
if you could believe that you can at least breathe"
Those words contain the weight of truth in them. Hence, "Yes… Please take
care of me."
[1]
Mio finally made eye contact with Shuuya as she said that. With that, Shuuya
gave a nod to affirm and went towards Maria and Zest who stood behind
Basara and Mio, "It is unfortunate but the two of you can't come to the
village this time… I have previously heard about how you two had taken care
of my daughters in all sort of ways, so it pains me"
It was the most concern that Shuuya could express for demons like Maria and
Zest due to his position as a member of the Hero Clan.
"…Understood" "Well, it really can't be helped"
To that Shuuya, Zest and Maria said words of understanding.
— But, it wasn't simply because Shuuya had told them that.
The two of them accepted their role to be on standby as Mio and the others
requested it of them. Like Mio, Maria and Zest do not wish to make things
harder for Basara, Yuki and Kurumi. Like Mio had chosen to go, the two of
them had chosen to be left behind.
And then, as Shuuya finished greeting the group that gathered there, "—
Sorry, but can we have one more person come along with you?"
With a cheerful tone, the voice came from behind them.
"That's a pretty big car, surely you still have plenty of space"
There, a young man clad in black coat stood.
"Takigawa… Why are you here!?"
Basara asked, surprised. Basara and Takigawa had all sort of things done at
the back — they had the kind of relationship where they had done important
things together. But, seeing Basara's surprised reaction, …Basara didn't
know about this?
If so, then for what reason and aim is Takigawa here for? Mio and the others
had their guard up as they're unable to read the situation, "Is it that
unexpected? I'm put in charge of watching over you guys remember?"
Saying that, Takigawa became the center of attention right there, and he
simply said good grief at them, "Besides, this isn't some sort of travel. For
Naruse to be called in by the Hero Clan, whether you want to or not that
holds a potential for political problems among the demons. There's no way
they can approve of you guys going without them getting involved,"
Have some self-awareness,
"You guys are now in a pretty high political position and situation. Of course
we can all ow you guys some level of freedom, but it has to be within scope
of the higher ups. If not it would cause trouble for me on this position,"
Takigawa said with a sigh, and at him,
"I see… So you're Takigawa Yahiro-kun, the demon in charge of watching
over Naruse Mio-san"
Shuuya said, narrowing his eyes. Information regarding Takigawa, was
something already ascertained to the latest information with reports through
Yuki and Kurumi after the incident with Zolgear — before the sports festival,
ahead of the time Takigawa was returning to the Demon Realm. In short, how
he was a spy from the Moderate Faction towards the Current Demon Lord
Faction, and how he was dispatched by the Current Demon Lord faction to
watch over Mio. As such, the details of the condition and position from the
Demon Realm was yet to be reported. Even so, the Hero Clan's precaution
was plentiful.
"Considering the responsibility you have, I must say I understand that you
cannot stay quiet and just let Naruse Mio come to the village without you"
However, he said, taking a glance at Maria and Zest before returning to
Takigawa, "Those two girls who served as her protectors have to hold
themselves back. So I would be grateful if you would do the same. We
simply cannot just have any uninvited guest come to the Village. Especially if
that person is a demon"
"Well, I thought you would say as much, considering your position"
Takigawa said with a shrug, as he reached inside his coat pocket.
"—"
At once, Yuki and Kurumi had a sharp expression on their faces, "—
Takigawa"
Basara said in a low tone, with the intention of controlling the situation. With
that, "Don't worry. I'm not going to do anything rash"
With a sad smile, Takigawa took out a white document. Then, he showed the
back of the envelope. It was sealed with a red seal — Naruse Mio knew the
two emblems that were put side by side on it. Because not too long ago, she
had seen it time and time again while in the Demon Realm.
"Truth is, this time, other than as someone who watches over them, I also
hold the role of an envoy. From the current demon lord faction and the
moderate faction — I came here as a representative for the two sides of the
Demon Realm, to deliver this confidential document… As such, can't you
understand me wanting to go with you guys?"
"——I see. If what you say is true, then it is without a doubt that the letter is
of utmost importance"
After listening to Takigawa, Shuuya muttered in understanding. However,
"Unfortunately, this isn't something I can determine by myself personally…
As a messenger who represents the demons, I would think that one can use
the same route as the time of the last armistice?"
At how Shuuya was unwilling to budge, Takigawa shrugged, "It's not like we
didn't consider that you know? However, unfortunately, this has all sorts of
situations. We can't just use a window like last time. The reason why is that
this secret document is addressed for the Japanese Village of the hero clan. If
it's not something you can determine, it's too rash to turn me down right
here. I'm sorry that it's so much trouble but get me an elder who can
determine it. Surely you can just call them to ask?"
The words have logic in them. Watching the banter between Takigawa and
Shuuya, Mio tensed and gulped down, "…I understand, let's do that"
Perhaps thinking that a demon like Takigawa won't abide so easily, Shuuya
said words of agreement.
And then he took out a phone from his pocket, and began to use the screen to
navigate the options, "I'm sorry, but please wait a bit…"
He said with a serious face, he then walked towards Yuki and Kurumi, "…
You two, what should I do with this?"
"Dad… do you still not remember?"
Kurumi said like she was tired of it, as she was asked on how to use the
phone, "No, I'm just really bad with technology…" "Let me do it"
At Shuuya who spoke while tilting his head, Yuki took the phone and began
going through it, Looking at this sight, Takigawa said quietly, "Hey
Basacchi… Are we really going to go on this mountain road with this old
man who can't even use a phone driving? It seems pretty dangerous"
"…No, that's, well"
As Basara found it hard to say much, Shuuya received his phone back from
Yuki and began talking to someone on it.
Then — Getting permission for Takigawa to go with them, was yet another
twenty minutes.
PART 3
With the Basara and the others on board, the car runs through a road
surrounded by mountains.
The large SUV has a spacious interior, and Kurumi sat next to the driver
Shuuya — in the second row, Mio and Yuki sat side by side, with Kurumi in
the passenger seat, the three girls chatted among themselves, with Shuuya
sometimes joining into their conversation.
The topic of their conversation was answering Mio's questions regarding the
Village. That being said, the content of the conversation was generally things
that had been covered before, and it was a means of ice breaking with
Shuuya.
And then, behind them were three seats.
"Hmm… So that's one of the dams. Even though deep in this mountain is the
mysterious Hero's Village, it is relatively close to tourist spots."
Takigawa spoke as he looked up information from his phone.
At that, Basara nodded a yes to Takigawa, "It seems like this area being a
tourist spot was nothing recent."
To have the elders approve of Takigawa coming along, surely they had given
them a gist of the situation. They were told it was unrelated to Basara's
problem and was related to the Village itself.
With that, "Well, if you think about the duties of the hero clan, while they
can't have regular people know of their identity, they have to be able to grasp
the knowledge and situation regarding this world. They chose a way to not
reject any sort of development while hiding themselves, it seems"
Takigawa's guess the bullseye. The hero clans' duty to begin with is to
protect the human world from the magic of the demon realm. And then
throughout human history, technological innovation happened. If they were
to themselves from present society, it would make it close to impossible for
them to do their duty. Presently, the Japanese hero clan took a form of the
Village, a form present in other places such as Oceania or Africa, on the other
hand, other districts of the clan may be located in places that is more
intermingled with regular society.
"I don't know the details but… If I'm not wrong in the US, they have this
department for the Hero Clan in a secret information agency directly under
the government?"
Takigawa's casual words were new to Mio who was sitting in front of him.
Even as she was engaged in talking to Yuki and the others.
"——"
Perhaps hearing the talk behind her, she turned her back a little towards them.
— They're only grazed lightly upon the hero clan overseas. Though even on
that, the talks about the Japanese village had been limited to the scope needed
so that there will not be any trouble. As Mio has demon blood in her, and
Maria and Zest are demons themselves, if they were given deeper
information, they may be perceived as dangerous by the hero clan.
The political fuss that happened in the demon realm over Mio was finally
sorted. There is no more risk of Mio being targeted, and as long as they
understand there's no risk to this world, even if they can't be released from
under observation, there was no more risk of something as deeply dangerous
as an extermination.
However — Takigawa was not in the same position. As he was being
deployed as a special envoy, Takigawa was a representative of both the
moderate and current demon lord factions. For the village to approve of him,
surely he must've had to demonstrate himself as suitable for this position.
That being said, "You know quite a lot about the situation here…"
"Well, I have to know this much to do my job"
At Basara saying that dumbfounded, Takigawa shrugged.
Hence Basara sighed — his gaze then fell to the interior of the car, to his feet.
…Most likely.
Even though the elders agreed to have Takigawa go with them, they most
likely have ordered Shuuya to ascertain if Takigawa is truly an envoy. In a
moment, Basara's gaze ran to the rear view mirror and did not see a change in
the driving Shuuya's expressions. While gripping on to the steering wheel,
Shuuya occasionally joined in with the girls' talk — even so, there is no
doubt he's listening in to their conversation in the back too.
How much relevant information one knows is a barometer to determining
one's standing. It's the same with human society, where management would
know information the regular workers don't, while the top admin knows
information the management don't. However, by saying all the information
he knows like that, besides ensuring his position with the demon realm, he
put a higher risk on Mio as she's hearing more of it. That is something Basara
and the others wish to avoid. However, he does not think that Takigawa
would purposely put them in a bad position.
Hence Basara spoke with his voice lowered, "You're being so aggressive,
what are you thinking?"
"I want to ask that too… It's not like I particularly want to have to watch
over you guys, or be sent as an envoy, you get that right?"
Takigawa said with an annoyed tone,
— Presently Yuki and Kurumi, had made notes on Takigawa's presence to
the Village.
That was in part due to various situations, problems regarding the period they
know of Takigawa's true form, how they had cooperated with Basara and
other conditions. However, there are parts where they neglect to tell the
Village as part of their duty, as if they're not careful with the information
regarding their relationship, it may cause Yuki's and Kurumi's position to
worsen. And then between Basara and Takigawa, they have secrets to keep,
not just from Shuuya but the girls too. As such they don't all ude to any great
depths, only letting their conversations reach the surface. Even so, with word
play, Basara and Takigawa were able to come to a mutual understanding with
each other. At Takigawa's displeased words, "So that thing about being a
special envoy earlier, it isn't just a means to go with us?"
"Obviously… It's not that easy to come and go to the hero village?"
As Basara spoke like he knew of the real intent, Takigawa replied sounding
displeased. Considering his personality, the statement is like a sort of self
introduction for Takigawa. Most likely, this was something he meant for
Shuuya to hear. And then, the words also contained implications that this
particular instance had much to do with the higher ups of the moderate
faction as well as the current demon lord faction.
…In that case.
After the war that set itself as a landmark for the future of the demon realm
— the day Basara and the others returned to the human world, the current
demon lord Leohart arrived at the base of the moderate faction, Wildart. That
was to negotiate the terms for post-war peace. It had been three months since
— besides how Takigawa was to continue on watch over them and return to
the human world, the details on the development of the peace conference was
not passed on to them.
…But
While it's not something admitted publicly, the theory for Ramsus with
Wilbert, and how Basara was able to bring the truth out for so many people,
the mood for Leohart coming in for the peace conference was more peaceful
with that, and this is a bright component for the current Demon Lord faction
and Moderate faction to achieve peace. The letter earlier had two seals on the
envelope — that of both the current Demon Lord faction and the Moderate
faction. Basara would like to believe that was a sign of peace between them.
Hence, "…"
The situation at the Village they're heading to, the situation between the
current Demon Lord and Moderate faction that they left in the Demon World.
And then, thinking of his own position between the two, Basara considered
the choices they must take from here. And then, at the same time, he mustn't
forget for the time he - for Toujou Basara to do things by himself.
Yes — all to protect the things he will never give up on.
Basara slumped down into his seat.
…Somehow, he ended up thinking of a lot of things.
Regarding Basara, if it's about protect the family he treasures, Mio and the
rest, Takigawa Yahiro knows how cold he could be. For that sake, he would
do everything no matter what. And then, one of those things is Takigawa
himself.
After the first time they fought - the time he realized Takigawa's true form,
they decided to secretly join up. It wasn't a bad deal for Takigawa, and truth
is he was interested in why a former hero clan member like Basara chose to
protect the previous Demon Lord's daughter.
He had a feeling that being with Basara might put them in stalemate situation.
…But
He wasn't able to predict this situation.
Basara had killed Zolgear, Basara had killed Belphegor, he was able to drive
back Majin Chaos, he brought the current Demon Lord and Moderate Faction
of the demon realm to an armistice.
Of course, it wasn't that Basara did it all alone. On Zolgear and Belphegor
Takigawa had helped, and they have had Leohart's sister Liala help them as
well in dealing with the Cardinals. The current state between Current Demon
Lord faction and Moderate faction is also due to Leohart's and Ramsus'
charisma, and to begin with the path was carved by Wilbert, one lauded as
the strongest Demon Lord.
…Even so.
All of those were separate points. Without a doubt, the one who tied that
together, brought it to form into a solid shape was Basara.
But that Basara sometimes gives off an ominous feeling.
At the time Liala who just finished dealing with the cardinals and Jin came to
the same place.
Takigawa did not step into the special observation room. Or rather, he could
not have. It was not that he was scared. However, he had judged that if one
went into it carelessly, there was a risk of losing one's life. Most likely,
Basara had felt the same thing.
…This guy here.
However Basara, went straight in without even dropping his speed.
— Did the sense of fear from the overwhelming power of Majin Chaos numb
him?
No, that could not have been the case. Chaos at that time surpassed the force
exerted by both Liala and Jin. And surely Basara had seen Takigawa stop in
his tracks.
But Basara, without minding that stepped forward, stepped above it — the
line of certain death.
That's why Takigawa had decided. He would follow Basara for as far as he
can — but if the time comes, he would pull himself back.
…Well, up till now there had been a lot of times he wanted to pull back as is.
That being said, being entrusted with a secret document from both Ramsus
and Leohart is also a reason he must grit his teeth and not run. In particular,
he didn't want to play hide and seek with the murderous monster who said
"Don't shame Leohart, if not oneechan would be mad", betting his life on the
stage of demon and human world both.
…Seriously.
Hence Takigawa gave an exasperated sigh, and he put his hands behind his
head together.
There's no use in thinking about everything so pessimistically. He should just
do what he has to do. Basara too, in the same way, would do what he
personally would have to do. And then as silence falls between Basara and
Takigawa, and as the conversation between the girls fall to a close, the inside
of car then descend into a quiet state - but the car itself kept moving.
— And before long, they saw a traffic light.
At the right there's a tunnel, and there right in front of it, two guards stood.
The tunnel can't be used by cars without permission to do so all days of the
year, and the two of them are there to ensure that this is no ordinary car.
Further, as it's not in season, they should really walk from here. But, as
Shuuya used the car blinker, "—"
The two of them stepped aside so naturally, letting them push through.
"I see… So while there is a management company here for the regular
visitors, as needed the Hero Clan would use shikigamis as gatekeepers."
In a moment, they could see the guards are shikigamis. At that, "Indeed….
Well, as you can observe, leaving Shikigamis out normally is like saying
there's something here. The guards are usually just regular people."
Shuuya said with a small smile. Takigawa did not just possess sharp eyes,
saying "as needed", he spoke with understanding regarding the concealment
of the Village.
"—Then, let us keep going"
Shuuya said, the car continuing inside the tunnel — it ran just like that for a
while.
"—Ah"
Around just the middle of the tunnel, Mio who spoke in the middle raised her
voice softly.
Takigawa too, raised his eyebrow with a twitch. Just now —they could feel
the car they were in cross a dimensional barrier. And then, as they exited the
tunnel, "I see… So this is the reason why it's called a hidden village" "Yeah"
At his muttering, Basara who stood by him answered.
At the end of Takigawa's sight — right outside the car window, a countryside
view spread widely around them. which was a sharp contrast to what was
actually supposed to be on the other side of the tunnel. If they had continued
on to the other side of the tunnel, it should have taken them to a famous
tourist spot, littered with hotels and restaurants. There was nothing of that
sort here.
There was no denying that this was the 'Village' of the Hero Clan in Japan.
He could tell, even from within the car, that there was not a drop of demonic
energy in this holy area. From what he can tell, the surrounding mountains
were creating some sort of dimensional barrier to hide and cleanse the area.
No wonder the Elders of the Village didn't deny him entry to the village.
With the barrier in place, Takigawa couldn't even use half of his powers here.
He also saw signs of water pipes, power lines and telephone poles, suggesting
that the infrastructure was somehow connected to the outside world. Perhaps
this very car they were in had some sort of 'passport' which all owed it to
travel between dimensions.
No, that wasn't the case. It's the barrier itself.
"I see… So the barrier itself determines what goes through or not. So I guess,
packages addressed to this "Village" won't have any trouble passing the
barrier?"
"You are quite the clever one." Shuuya had to praise Takigawa's sharpness.
"Most people are unable to see the kinds of things we see. However, if for
some reason they found their way here, the barrier induces a form of memory
loss that makes the person forget the details and also makes him or her not
want to talk about the place."
"Well, that's quite the precaution…"
Takigawa snickered and looked out the window, only to stare in shock at the
sight before him.
It wasn't a sight of beauty. No, far from that.
"What the hell is that…."
PART 4
Basara could only stare at the scene in front of him.
He saw from the windows of his vehicle, a massive crater, - no -, a gaping
hole in the side of the mountain. If it was a meteor or something, it should
have left a crater in the side of the mountain. Instead, something punctured
through the mountain.
But what scared Basara wasn't the sheer size of the destruction unleashed on
the cliff side. What scared him was that this scene was identical to what
happened 5 years ago.
"Why…"
Mio heard Basara mutter to himself from her seat in front. But there wasn't
much she could do to comfort him. After all, she was not there 5 years ago, to
understand what exactly Basara was going through. Her words of comfort
will not do anything to alleviate the nightmare that Basara has been trying to
repress in the back of his mind all this time: the memory of wiping out entire
families and houses.
Mio glanced towards Yuki and Kurumi, in the hopes that they could comfort
Basara, but instead saw them maintain their silence as they stared down at
their feet.
"That area where your powers went rampant… it seems like time has simply
stopped in that exact area."
Shuuya spoke with a heavy heart as he continued driving.
"It's as if that area has been cut off into some separate dimension. Whether it
be physical matter or magic, nothing seems to affect that area."
In other words, Basara's sins will remain there forever, a gaping scar in the
beautiful face of Mother Nature.
"So that's why…"
Basara understood now. Understood why Yuki was so cold to him the first
time they met again at school. Why Takashi and Kurumi were out for his
blood, and why the girls were acting quiet. While Basara was trying to put
the events of 5 years ago behind him after being ousted from the village with
his father, the people of the village were reminded of the tragedy every single
time they looked outside. And this will not change for the foreseeable future.
Basara's sins and his mistakes were forever.
PART 5
Heavy silence settled in the car as they passed some houses. Yuki spoke up
softly, over the sound of the whirring engine, to break the silence.
"…Basara."
Basara looked up to look at Yuki, only to have his breath caught in his throat.
For right in front of him, towards the left side of the road, lay a building he
was very familiar with. His childhood home. The Toujou household. And on
the other side of the fence, the Nonaka household.
Basara desperately tried to hold back the emotions that were bubbling within
him. After all, he didn't come here to reminisce. Of course he will forever
shoulder the sins that he committed that day 5 years ago, but for now, there
were other things that he had to do.
Because Basara now has things that he must protect.
"I know it's been a long trip from Tokyo, and I'd more than want you to take
a rest, but with unexpected guests and everything, time is really of the
essence. So I'm sorry but I'll have to take you to the elders right now."
Shuuya spoke apologetically, and the usually aloof Takigawa responded in a
rather mature manner.
"Oh, don't worry about it. We're fine."
But something seemed a bit off for Basara.
"Um, may I ask a question?"
"Of course."
"You just said 'unexpected guests', am I to assume that there are guests other
than Takigawa here today?"
Shuuya didn't respond to Basara's question, and in fact, you could see the
nervous look in his eyes from the rear view mirror.
"Hey, if you need to speak about something I shouldn't be listening to, do
you want me to cover my ears or something?"
Takigawa suggested in a joking manner, but Basara was once again the
serious one here.
"Uncle Shuuya, if it's about Takigawa, don't worry. He is someone we can
definitely trust. And if something was to happen, I'll personally take
responsibility."
"Hey…"
Takigawa gave a slight retort but he knew what Basara meant. If Takigawa
was to leak whatever Shuuya had to say, there will be consequences if the
information went to the wrong people. Even though Takigawa was one of the
few demon friends that he had, he was Basara's responsibility the moment he
decided to tag along to visit the village. So it will be on him to make sure
Takigawa didn't misbehave.
"The Vatican notified us that they are sending a Hearing Officer. The officer
will be arriving tomorrow."
"Th-the Vatican….!?"
Basara was at a loss for words. For this was the topic he was just talking to
Takigawa before in regards to other Hero Clans around the world. The Hero
Clan in the United States have found their way in the upper echelons of the
intelligence agencies and the military of the US government. The Heroes in
Europe, on the other hand, were able to move around their base of operations
for centuries, under the guise of 'religion'. Currently they occupied the
Vatican, and had an influential grip over the aristocrats and the ruling elites
throughout Europe. The European branch of the Hero Clan had the longest
history, and you could even say that they acted as the headquarters and
governing body of all Hero Clans.
And the Hearing Officer that Shuuya referred to, wasn't some priest to give a
sermon. They were the handpicked elites chosen from the best Heroes in the
European branch, to handle special missions like combat against high ranking
demons and to dispel any quarrels and infighting in the Hero community. But
as elites, they weren't just sent off to any random mission, but only those of
the utmost importance.
"Correct me if I'm wrong but… was it perhaps the Vatican who summoned
me this time and not the village?"
What Takigawa said before was starting to make sense. It wasn't surprising
that the village would want to make a move on them before Basara and co
become an even bigger threat to the village. But Basara did not, even for a
moment, expect that the Vatican will involve themselves. Of course Basara
now had something that he needed to protect, even to the point of taking on
the Vatican.
But Yuki and Kurumi can not just follow Basara's path. They had to think
about the trouble that they will bring to their parents. Even the meeting this
time wasn't just for Basara to introduce himself to the elders, but for him to
argue for the Nonaka sisters to continue living with him.
"Oh no, it was very much the elders who summoned you. The Vatican just
decided to interfere in the last minute. It took the elders completely by
surprise as well. That's why nerves are high. It's not always that we have a
Hearing Officer pay us a visit after all."
"I see…"
Basara considered what Shuuya just said and came to the conclusion that
things weren't at their lowest point but it still wasn't looking that great.
Currently he didn't know if the Vatican was going to butt heads with Basara
and co, or if they were going to quarrel with the Village.
Regardless, it probably isn't something that will sort itself out with just a
friendly conversation.
It also now made sense as to why Shuuya was chosen to escort Basara and
the others. Usually, as Yuki and Kurumi's father, and someone who is close
to Basara, he would not be a suitable choice to escort them. In fact, it would
have probably been better to have somebody else, somebody who won't
disclose any information to them. But the elders had to have their 'insurance'
in this situation. By having Shuuya speak to Basra about the Vatican, Basara
will be entering the talks without being surprised and would be able to act in
a clear headed manner in case something was to happen.
And the confusion that will occur with the sudden interference by the Vatican
might play to Basara's hand when negotiating with the elders. The fact that
the village already planned to invite Basara before the Vatican interfered also
proved that the village may have some certain issues and conditions that they
did not want the Vatican to change or to know about. So Basara was not
about to let go of such an opportunity.
"Thanks for everything ojisan."
Basara gave his thanks and looked ahead at the large manor. The building
that will host the swordless duel that is about to take place. The manor of the
elders.