The room seemed to radiate a divine aura as Kanon wielded her newfound light-based magic. Natsuki stared in stunned silence, unable to comprehend the magnitude of the power before her.
This magic—pure, radiant, and potent—was unlike anything she had ever seen, surpassing even the most formidable priestesses. Only moments ago, Kanon had been human, yet now she stood transformed into an angel. Natsuki's sharp mind quickly connected the dots: this was undoubtedly the result of the mysterious crystal August had given her.
"It's incredible," Natsuki murmured to herself, her gaze flickering to August, who seemed as composed as ever.
"Kanon, there's more," August said, stepping forward.
"More?" Kanon tilted her head in confusion.
"This." August held up the Sword Birth, an artifact radiating with sacred energy.
"What is it?"
"A divine artifact known as Sacred Gear," August replied simply. Without further explanation, he placed the sword before her, and the weapon dissolved into radiant particles that were absorbed into Kanon's body.
A rush of energy coursed through her, and instinctively, she realized that she could summon the sword at will.
"The Sword Birth allows you to forge holy swords from your will," August explained. "As you grow stronger and your thoughts become more defined, the artifact will evolve. When your determination is strong enough to reverse the world's flow, you will unlock its forbidden realm."
"That… sounds amazing," Kanon replied, though her expression showed her confusion. As a middle school student, the weight of such words was beyond her grasp.
Even Natsuki, with her vast knowledge of magic, struggled to fully understand the artifact's intricacies. But one thing was clear: Kanon had hit the jackpot, transforming from an ordinary human into an angel with a divine artifact at her disposal.
"Divine Sword Creation!" Kanon exclaimed.
In an instant, multiple holy swords materialized around her, their blades piercing the floor. Each sword radiated sacred power, leaving even Natsuki awestruck.
Though the swords weren't perfect, their sudden creation was nothing short of miraculous. For a first attempt, it was an extraordinary feat.
"August, look! I did it!" Kanon beamed, her face glowing with excitement.
"You did great, Kanon. You're incredible," August said, his voice filled with pride as he gently ruffled her hair.
Kanon's laughter was genuine and unrestrained. It was one of the rare moments in her life when she felt truly happy. After her mother's death, such joy had been scarce, and even her adoptive father, Kensei, had never evoked the warmth she now felt.
Natsuki, watching the scene unfold, felt an uncharacteristic pang of irritation. The sight of Kanon basking in August's attention stirred feelings she couldn't quite place.
As her thoughts wandered, Natsuki's eyes drifted to the floor, now riddled with holes from the summoned swords.
"Kanon," Natsuki called, her tone sharp.
"Yes, Natsuki-sensei?" Kanon turned toward her, her expression innocent.
"Look at what you've done to the floor."
"Huh?"
Kanon followed Natsuki's gaze and froze, realizing the damage she'd caused. Her face paled as the reality of her actions sank in.
"I'm so sorry!" Kanon exclaimed, bowing deeply. Her apology was swift and sincere, diffusing Natsuki's irritation.
"Fine, just be more careful in the future. Don't use your powers recklessly at home," Natsuki admonished.
"Yes, Natsuki-sensei," Kanon replied, her voice small but respectful.
August chuckled softly, knowing Natsuki's anger had mostly subsided. He also knew that her scolding would be directed at him if it ever turned serious.
"Kanon," August began, a playful smile tugging at his lips. "You're a member of the Goddess Clan now, while I'm part of the Demon Clan. You have the power of light, and I wield the power of darkness."
"Wait, August—are we… different?"
"Well, technically, the Goddess Clan and Demon Clan were mortal enemies," August explained casually.
"Enemies? Then I don't want this power! I don't want to be your enemy!" Kanon's voice quivered, tears welling up in her eyes.
"Hey, don't cry," August said hurriedly. "That's ancient history. The Goddess Clan and Demon Clan are gone now. It's just the two of us. And when you're older, we can have a child together to put an end to that rivalry once and for all."
"A-a child?!"
The words hit Kanon like a thunderbolt, leaving her face bright red. Natsuki, on the other hand, exploded with rage.
"You idiot! Kanon is still a child, and you're already talking about having kids?!"
Natsuki delivered a swift kick to August, sending him sprawling. She then pulled Kanon behind her protectively, glaring at him.
"She's only fourteen! She's in middle school! What kind of monster are you?"
"I didn't mean now! I meant in the future!" August protested, rubbing his side.
"You're a shameless loli-loving creep!" Natsuki spat, her fury unabated.
"I… I don't mind," Kanon murmured, her voice barely audible. "If it's with August…"
"Stop right there, Kanon!" Natsuki interrupted, silencing her. "You're too young to be thinking about such things."
August sighed, realizing he'd stepped into yet another misunderstanding. One thing was clear: his life with Kanon and Natsuki was bound to be anything but dull.
___
If you're interested in reading more, feel free to visit my pat reon, https , // www .pat reon. com /XElenea