ALwv8mNy

1
2Preface 
3It was farther than the sea...
4 
5So far that it had become unreachable, a part of «fairy tales»—
6 
7
8
9 
10In a certain place there existed a beautiful princess.
11 
12She had beautiful golden hair that even the moon would admire. 
13Her shining eyes could overshadow stars.
14 
15Even the birds would be humbled by her amazing voice.
16 
17The fame of her beauty had spread across the seven continents. Men 
18from all over the world kept coming to propose to the princess. 
19
20 
21The princess said:
22 
23"Whoever can give me the best present in the world—I shall give my love to
24him." 
25
26Thus many a man came to propose with dazzling treasures. 
27Needless to say that there were gold and jewels.
28 
29The princess even received hundreds of territories, thousands of castles, 
30and tens of thousands of slaves.
31But the princess wasn't even one bit satisfied. 
32
33"I want things that are more beautiful, more valuable." 
34
35So there were more men who sent unique treasures to her. 
36Not to mention unique vows of love in the world.
37 
38The princess even received secret treasures unique in the world,
39heavenly objects that didn't even have another among gods. 
40
41 
42
43But the princess was still not satisfied. 
44
45No matter what degree the beauty, they could not rival the princess' 
46beauty. No matter what degree the love, they were like granted to the 
47princess.
48 
49No matter what degree the treasure, the princess had already gotten them. 
50—There were no more treasures in the world that could amaze the 
51princess. Even so, the princess still said:
52 
53"Someone come—is there a treasure that's even more amazing?"
54 
55
56
57 
58—Things went like this until one day. A prince 
59came before the princess.
60 
61He was different from any man the princess had ever met.
62He was young and strong, but dressed poorly. Didn't 
63seem like he was carrying any treasure too. But the 
64prince gave a "little treasure", and said:
65 
66"I am going to give the princess a treasure that she has absolutely never
67seen before." 
68
69Upon seeing what the prince gave—the most beautiful treasure in the 
70world.
71 
72The princess could not stop being amazed...
73 
74And thus she gave her promise of love to the prince. And 
75that treasure was——
76 
77
78...... 
79
80"—That's it! It was 'true love'!" 
81
82«She» closed the book in her hands, and screamed. 
83
84In this manner, «she», in order to look for her 'true love', entered a long, 
85long sleep.
86 
87Waiting for the day that the man with that 'little treasure' in the fairy tale
88would appear. 
89
90—Without any consideration for any possible consequences that might 
91be brought by her actions.
92...What «she» had read was really a «fairy tale». 
93
94But the story of «her» falling into a deep sleep for the fairy tale, isn't a «fairy 
95tale».
96 
97That's farther than the sea, so far it was 800 years ago—
98 
99
100 
101So silly that any of the Exceed would be laughed at for this—'history'. 
102
103
104
105
106
107
108
109 
110Prologue - Easy Start 
111Part 1
112The Werebeasts’ nation –– the Eastern Union. The countryside of Kannagari 
113City.
114 
115There is a building where the former Eastern Union’s ambassador resides
116–– Hatsune Izuna’s mansion. 
117
118In a wooden room which has architecture resembling a Chashitsu
119[1]
120, the
121smell of incense drifted over the newly laid tatami mats. 
122
123The room was so silent, one would think that only unmoving plants 
124were present within. A single silhouette was seen shivering inside.
125
126“……Shiro, are you awake?” 
127
128The figure quietly climbed out of his bed, and whispered to his side. 
129
130……No reply. 
131
132Only her smooth and steady breathing could be heard next to him. 
133
134Confirming what he heard, the figure nodded his head, and snuck into 
135action.
136 
137Despite being in a rush, he was holding his breath, while holding tightly
138onto his pillow and not making any sounds. 
139
140Then, his hand grabbed the item he had targeted, and at once, he quietly 
141moved to the corner of the room.
142 
143“Nobody on the right, nobody on the left. Other than Shiro, no one else is
144present.”
145The figure recited these words, and begun his operation. His face began
146to emerge through the darkness. 
147
148It was a black-eyed and black-haired teenager, who had dark circles under 
149his eyes which decreased his attractiveness greatly.
150 
151He was Sora, 18 years old, and Imanity’s latest King. He was one of the two
152rulers of Elchea. 
153The king carefully investigated his surroundings. He used his left hand to
154hold his tablet PC and his right hand to hold a box of facial tissues. He
155began his declaration as softly as possible. 
156
157“Now is the time –– I can discharge the long accumulated toxins in my 
158body!”
159 
160
161–– Truly a pervert. 
162
163If the citizens were to witness their 『King』 in his current manner, they 
164would probably sorrowfully cry out with a long “Oh……”
165 
166But, please first wait a while.
167 
168It has been two months since he and his sister had been summoned to
169this foreign world named Disboard, a world where everything was
170decided by games. 
171
172In that short period of time, not only had he ascended the throne of the 
173Imanity who were on the verge of destruction, together with his sister, he
174had went through several death matches –– subduing those with the ability
175to use magic, surpassing various cheats, and recapturing the territory of
176the Imanity. Today, they merged their country with so many lands that
177they have become the third largest country in the world. 
178
179Sora –– during these series of fierce battles with countless women –– not 
180limiting to the Imanity, but also including the Flügel, Elves, and Werebeasts
181–– there had been several times where people were practically naked, be it
182in games or during baths. During all these times, he was forced to turn his
183head away. He was like a man playing in a sandbox. Within his tablet PC and
184smartphones was the residue of these paradises in the form of videos he
185had recorded. However, as he is always by his sister’s side, he had never
186once had a chance to view these… 
187
188So it is to say… 
189
190He was never able to vent his urges ––! 
191
192For a man in such a situation, would accusing him of being a pervert be 
193reasonable?
194 
195–– Ahh, that’s right. Women, you can despise me for all you want. 
196But fellow men, you should be able to relate to this!
197 
198For an eighteen year old virgin to endure to this very day, just think of his
199iron willpower! How can it not bring you to tears?! 
200
201That should be awe-inspiring enough, no? 
202
203That should be enough to call it –– 『Love』, no? 
204
205I need not speak for my sister who is still so young. 
206
207In order to protect the several maidens around him, he had to resist all of 
208his urges ––
209 
210Such noble ambitions –– what would it be if not 『Love』?
211 
212……Is there anyone out there who can refute this –– No, there is not!
213I think there isn’t… probably? 
214
215“I don’t care if you’re going to scold me as a pervert, I’m already at my limits 
216and on the verge of bursting –– No, this is indeed a noble act of the highest
217order!!” 
218
219With such tragic thoughts in his consciousness, Sora… put his hand to his 
220crotch…
221 
222
223“Um, Um… Ex-Excuse me…” 
224
225“KYAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAA!” 
226
227Upon hearing that voice behind him, Sora let out a scream like a girl, so 
228scared that he fell on the tatami.
229 
230A sigh was let out –– there were three people who were responding.
231 
232“……Ni……Do it more quietly……”
233 
234Getting up and no longer pretending to be asleep, a pure-white haired
235sister with red eyes coldly stared on at him –– Shiro. 
236
237“Ugh… there are other people right, des? Izuna wants to sleep together, 
238des.”
239 
240Sticking her head out from the side of the ceiling was a black haired
241Werebeast girl with animal ears –– Hatsuse Izuna. 
242
243“Who dares to offend my master? Can I cut it off? Can I cut off this thief’s 
244head!?”
245 
246Appearing out of thin air with an abstract halo floating on her head was
247a Flügel girl –– Jibril.
248The owners of these three voices had an air of discontent around them… 
249
250Sora, who had fallen on the tatami, could not resist shouting while he 
251was putting his pants back on.
252 
253“Doesn’t this world have any concept of 『privacy』?! I just suffered a
254serious violation!!” 
255
256Then, when he was in the middle of pulling up his zipper… 
257
258 
259“Who～～ are you to say that!? How dare you act like a sage while peeping
260on others!” 
261
262While Sora was pointing and shouting in their direction, everyone else had 
263finally realized that something was amiss, and redirected their gazes onto
264that person. 
265
266Only a figure could be seen. The person sat quietly on the floor, as if the 
267person had merged with the night sky.
268 
269The room was dark and hazy –– but even so, the person gave off an
270unnatural sense of lacking a shadow. 
271
272“Sigh…” 
273
274With light illuminating from her finger tips through magic, Jibril unhappily 
275tilted her lips to the side.
276 
277
278“I was wondering who was capable of approaching master this closely 
279while avoiding my notice –– a Dhampir, I see.”
280 
281“Dh-Dhampir?”
282Upon hearing Jibril’s words, everyone looked towards that figure once
283more. 
284Through the illumination of light, a girl wearing a black dress emerged. It
285was as if she was wearing the night sky on her body. 
286
287She had short blue hair, and her glowing purple pupils shone brightly 
288through. Her teeth were white, and on her back were small bat-like wings.
289
290Although she looked to be around 15 or 16 in human age, that would not 
291be so since she was a Dhampir.
292 
293Her appearance matched Sora and Shiro’s impressions of vampires
294exactly, as it was completely like what was depicted in a regular vampire
295story. 
296
297–– 『Those who transcend death (Nosferatu)』, 『The rulers of the undead 
298(No Life King)』, 『Dominators of the night (Nightwalker)』……
299 
300As shown in these countless different names, they were a race that
301were greatly feared by humans –– but, as for this girl’s case…… 
302
303“…… I, I can’t do this anymore…… Please…… Please save me……” 
304
305Her face was haggard and she spoke in a weak voice which completely 
306offset any prior impressions of terror.
307 
308“You lot are still the same. Using your illusions to stay hidden ––
309surreptitiously sneaking around to hide from place to place, and using
310your ability of bright eyes.” 
311
312“It’s such a pity…” Jibril then laughed as she sarcastically continued on. 
313
314“And I thought your race had finally made good use of your abilities, 
315but you’ve silently died out without a sound. Such a sorry state you’re
316in.” 
317
318“J-Jibril… you’re still speaking as sharply as ever.” 
319Even Sora could not help but find it terrible while he watched her scold
320the dying girl. 
321 
322However, Izuna lightly jumped down from the ceiling without making a 
323sound, and tilted her head while showing a puzzled expression.
324 
325“Izuna heard from grandpa, that the Dhampirs had already died on the
326roadside, des.” 
327
328“…Eh?” 
329
330So Jibril’s bitter words were actually the blatant, unsparing truth. 
331
332But Izuna was merely using the wrong choice of words. She meant no ill 
333will. So that means… the race was supposed to have already perished…? 
334“…… the Exceed’s…… twelfth ranked race…… the 『Dhampirs』……”
335Seeing Sora was at a loss, Shiro stepped in to help. 
336
337She crawled out of bed, and began reading out the information she 
338memorized.
339 
340“……The race that…… sucks on the blood of the rest of the Exceed –– for
341their souls…… to continue living.” 
342
343Shiro continued to speak. 
344
345“And with…… the 『Ten Oaths』……” 
346
347Shiro let out an exclamation and her mouth twitched slightly. 
348
349–– 『Ten Oaths』. 
350
351That was what the sole god had set, and these oaths were to be absolutely 
352obeyed in this world of Disboard.
353 
354One of which stated “All murder, war and robbery is forbidden in this
355world.” 
356
357If these were the vampires that Sora was familiar with, that would mean 
358that under these oaths…
359 
360Attacking others or biting them… would inflict harm on the other party,
361and thus a race that needs to win in order to suck others’ blood would… 
362
363“Eh? Is that so? So that means the Dhampirs… would not be able to suck 
364blood without the other party’s consent, right?”
365 
366The dying girl did not even need to speak for Sora to know the answer. 
367…From this, Sora could understand why her face was so haggard. Jibril then
368nodded and spoke. 
369
370“To add on to what master has said, if a Dhampir sucks the blood of 
371another…”
372 
373“They would turn into a Dhampir… Nothing unusual there.”
374 
375As a result, unless the other party wanted to become a Dhampir, it would
376be impossible to obtain consent to suck anyone’s blood… 
377
378“……Huh? No, that isn’t the case.” 
379
380“Eh? That’s weird. It doesn’t always turn out like that?” 
381
382“Dhampirs obtain 『soul essence』 from blood and body fluids, and when
383drawing these fluids, their own soul would be mixed with the other’s. That
384would promote a Dhampir’s growth and enhance their strength, while the
385one who gets bitten will have a mixed soul and catch a specific disease.” 
386So that means…
387 
388Jibril smiled and asserted, “It typically does a hundred times more harm
389than it does any good.” 
390
391“……How can there be such hopeless vampires.” 
392
393–– 『Let me offer to you the power to be ageless and the strength of the
394night. 
395
396』 
397
398Being unable to use this as a slogan to persuade others, they were just a 
399race that would bring about illnesses.
400 
401Hearing their helpless situation would make one weep. Sora turned to
402face the Dhampir girl, and sighed with nothing to say. 
403
404I see… It’s not surprising that they would go extinct with the 
405implementation of the Ten Oaths.
406 
407But then… if that is so… Sora felt rather confused.
408 
409……Why haven’t they gone extinct yet?
410 
411“Pl…… Please …… I, I’m at the brink of dying…… give me your 『soul
412essence』……” 
413The girl was practically begging. With disorderly breaths and a weak
414voice, she sought the help of Sora who was currently in deep thought. 
415
416As she spoke, her voice got more hoarse and weak. She was basically about 
417to die if……
418 
419“……No, after hearing that you’d catch some disease after sharing their soul,
420only ghosts would agree to that. Are you an idiot? Just die already.”
421He said that but… his conscience was not prepared to watch her die in 
422front of his eyes.
423 
424Sora was trying to find a way to save her but…
425 
426As he would become a sick virgin, it was particularly difficult for him to
427promise her. Sora scratched at his head in great annoyance. Then, all of a
428sudden… 
429
430“Ah! Master, I didn’t make myself clear. As long as you don’t get bitten, you 
431will not get the disease.”
432 
433……Ehh?
434 
435“Although without biting, Dhampirs would not be able to grow from their
436soul essence without using their teeth to suck the blood. However, if it is
437just to sustain their life… 『direct oral administration』 of the body fluids
438would suffice for emergency situations.” 
439
440“……You mean?” 
441
442“Second to blood, the body fluid where the 『soul essence』 is most 
443highly concentrated in, and not biting to ingest the fluids, that would be
444the…” 
445
446……When he heard what Jibril was about to say next, Sora’s next action 
447was……
448 
449“Semen…”
450 
451“Miss, are you alright!? I’ll save you right now!! I definitely won’t let you
452die!!” 
453
454Everyone present at the scene was stunned… –– not to mention Shiro. 
455
456Even the vision of the Werebeasts or the Flugel could only catch his after- 
457image.
458 
459–– His attitude changed so quickly that even a blink of an eye would suffice
460at describing his speed. 
461
462Sora carried the Dhampir girl to the corner of the room, and carefully laid 
463her down there……
464 
465He nodded his head in deep acknowledgement. “Now I 
466see, you aren’t vampires, you are succubi!” That’s why 
467they haven’t gone extinct.
468 
469Who would let such a wonderful race go extinct ––!
470 
471Sora cried out in his heart, and prepared to undo the buttons of his
472trousers, but then…… 
473
474 
475
476“……What is semen, des?
477
478  
479
480  
481“…… Ni…… M18 scene…… NG……”
482 
483The two children under 18 years old looked towards him, and that would
484mean…… 
485
486–– The 『heart-pounding scene』 had just been force closed. 
487
488“…… Ah, not this again.” 
489
490Sora looked up to the sky with hope in his eyes, with tears almost about to 
491fall.
492 
493Eighteen-year-old virgin Sora, don’t tell me you’re going to do as usual and
494not move any ground forward? 
495
496Having to turn my back countless times on these otherworldly paradises, 
497back to being a man playing in a sandbox…… Don’t tell me it’s really going
498to stay like this forever? 
499
500(…… No, it can’t!!) 
501
502Sora bit his lip tightly. 
503
504Whatever the case, you must use this brain of yours to get out of all kinds 
505of difficulties for your survival!
506 
507The moment that I must concentrate all my brain juices to cross over a
508heavy obstacle –– isn’t that time upon me right now?! 
509
510–– After this thought, he recollected on the events that had happened. 
511
512His sister looked on with resolute and cold eyes. 
513
514“…… Shiro, please imagine a fully-clothed man drowning in a river.” 
515“…… Un.”
516 
517“Implementing the appropriate CPR, and removing the wet clothes that
518would drop his body temperature to a fatal degree, and giving that person
519your body heat…… would that be rated M18?” 
520
521“……………… It wouldn’t……” 
522
523“Right. And why’s that so? Because that is helping another, and saving 
524that person’s life. It’s the most noble of actions!!” 
525Sora nodded exaggeratedly in agreement with what he had just said, and
526with very sincerely clear eyes, he looked to the girl lying at the corner of the
527room –– She seemed so haggard and weak that no words could properly
528describe how she looked. 
529
530“Indeed, for us humans, it can easily be deemed as irrational, but this is to 
531save a life… it’s a noble act! Therefore, your brother is forced to abandon
532his shame, and entrust my entire self to the cultures of other races in order
533to save her life!! And so, can you please turn around and avert your eyes～
534～!?” 
535
536–– The most perfect and flawless reasoning has been stated! –– 
537That is, I am starting a rebellion!
538 
539“…… since it’s body fluids …… then 『saliva』 would also work……?”
540 
541Shiro gently worded her speech, which immediately let his perfect
542reasoning (laughs) end its life in less than a second. Sora could not help but
543freeze in his place. 
544
545Jibril thought for a moment, and smiled with compassion towards the 
546pitiful race.
547“I think there should be no problems with that. Though there would be less 
548soul essence within, but it should suffice for an emergency situation, I
549think?” 
550
551“…… Un, allow Shiro to……” 
552
553In this way, Shiro walked towards the Dhampir girl lying at her brother’s 
554feet.
555 
556Then, she put her face close to the girl’s face –––
557 
558“Wa-Wait a second, Shiro! That…… isn’t quite right! Nii does not agree to
559this!” 
560
561“…… CPR…… a noble act……” 
562
563Sora hurriedly tried to stop her, but Shiro coldly stared as she rebutted 
564him with his own words.
565 
566Sora hurriedly used all his functioning brain cells to think of a valid
567argument, but ––– 
568
569(––– no, shouldn’t a kiss between girls be perfectly fine?) 
570
571It is not M18, and it is also in a very healthy zone. To top it off, it is a 
572genuine act to save a life.
573 
574Incidentally, Sora –– in fact had no discrimination towards the yuri genre,
575but still…… 
576
577(––– I just never want to see Shiro do such a thing.) 
578
579––– And why is that so? 
580
581That question came to his mind in a flash, but Sora shook his head 
582straight-away.
583“No! A French kiss is not good for a child’s education! I veto against this!!” 
584
585Sora had yet to think what would happen after his statement, so he 
586hastily looked to his surroundings.
587 
588Izuna looked particularly bored, and Shiro still had her eyes half-open, not
589to mention ––– 
590
591“Ji-Jibril! Your body fluids –––” 
592
593Izuna was still young, and Shiro was a no-go, and it was greatly 
594regrettable that Steph was not present at this moment……
595 
596“Under master’s command, I dare not to disobey –– even though freely
597bloodsucking mosquitoes are still above this pathetic race by a few points,
598but to kiss –– though since you wish to save her life, master, I don’t really
599recommend doing it this way.” 
600
601Her chillingly poisonous tongue made even Sora a little scared, but Jibril 
602still continued speaking.
603 
604“If I were to give her my body fluids, she would likely evaporate, as the
605difference in the quality and concentration of our soul essences is too
606large.” 
607 
608––High in their position was the mighty sixth ranked race of the Exceed.
609 
610This race of Flugel-sama is just so…… hax, totally hax!
611 
612“…… then…… let Shiro……”
613 
614Shiro used a finger to lift her hair, and inched her face towards the girl –––
615 
616“––––––––––Oh, oh right～～! There’s also ‘sweat’, right!!”
617 
618Sora’s brain was on the verge of boiling. He spoke the ‘alternative’ he just
619thought of with no hesitation. 
620
621“Sw-Sweat is also considered a body fluid! Right? Jibril!?” 
622
623  
624
625  
626“…… It’s hard to say… Sweat contains the most minimal amount of soul
627essence……” 
628
629“N-N-N-No other choice! We’ve got to at least give it a try!” 
630
631Before Sora could leap into action…… 
632
633Shiro slowly took off her sock, and extended her foot towards the Dhampir 
634girl’s eyes.
635 
636
637 
638“……kneel on the floor…… and lick.”
639 
640Imanity’s queen, Shiro.
641 
642–– She smiled a sadistic smile unbefitting of a queen.
643 
644“Oh my sister, although I had long realized how you hide away your S
645tendencies, but for you to do so without any hesitation… your brother
646does feel rather shocked……” 
647
648Sora’s cheek twitched, and he dejectedly collapsed onto the ground. 
649
650However, at the other side, the Dhampir girl, who looked almost like a 
651corpse, suddenly moved.
652 
653She sniffed a few times, and her eyes suddenly widened while she jumped
654up. 
655
656Awaiting the right time to pounce from her position, she popped Shiro’s 
657foot into her mouth……
658 
659“–– This! What is this! What a delicious taste, so delicious!!”
660 
661…… Everyone who was watching the scene looked on with a cold gaze,
662thinking: 
663
664–– the Exceed’s twelfth ranked race, the 『Dhampir』… 
665
666Although it was far from the sixth ranked Flugel and the seventh ranked 
667Elves, it was still ranked above the fourteenth ranked Werebeasts.
668 
669But, she was kneeling on the floor before a sixteenth ranked girl and –––
670 
671endlessly praising the taste of her foot. 
672“Does that sound right……?”
673 
674–– Indeed, this is not M18.
675 
676But yet for some reason, it feels like something is very wrong.
677 
678The Dhampir girl looked like she was a character in a comic book, tasting
679the most gourmets of cuisine and with flowers filling the background as she
680wildly licked his sister’s foot while endlessly praising it for being delicious. 
681
682“…… Jibril, are Dhampirs perverts?” 
683
684Sora directed his question to Jibril, as if his consciousness had just 
685ascended Mt. Everest
686 
687“Yup…… but since it is master’s soul essence, wouldn’t it naturally be
688delicious?” 
689
690“––Eh? Why?” 
691
692“That, of course, is because master is…… tough, strong, and an extremely 
693rare, unique and noble soul that any common person who searches the
694entire world for such a presence will still never meet it.” 
695
696Upon hearing Jibril’s comments, Izuna, who was originally forced to watch 
697from the side, vigorously nodded her head in agreement.
698 
699“……Sora and Shiro’s soul essence……does not have a contaminated taste. I
700do not dislike it, des.” 
701
702However, Sora responded their remarks with a weary sigh. 
703
704“…… am I becoming delusional? I always get the feeling that people are 
705looping the words ‘stubborn’, ‘only concerned for his own good’, ‘an
706abruptly changing character’, ‘withdrawn’, and not to mention ‘a virgin’!” 
707
708“None of that sort ––– doesn’t that just show that you possess 
709『unknown soul essence』? There is not a thing that can compare to the
710greatness of that…… honestly speaking, I also want to try a taste of it,
711fuhuhu～” 
712
713“………………Sora, Sora……Can I have a bite to try, des?” 
714 
715The two looked up expectantly at Sora at the same time, with a stream of
716saliva dripping from each of their mouths. 
717
718“I say, is there not a normal person in this room?” 
719
720“…… is Nii qualified…… to say that?” 
721
722––– the people with common sense (Stephanie) who were not present at 
723Izuna’s house, were being quietly ridiculed by Shiro’s words.
724
725––––––………… 
726
727With her strength restoring and her skin starting to become shinier, 
728the Dhampir girl spoke.
729 
730“Huu…… It really was very tasty…… thank you for the meal.”
731 
732“…… ugggh…… it’s wet…… need to wash it…… uggghh…… baths are
733so troublesome……” 
734
735Compared to the girl with an absent-minded expression on her face and her 
736hands clasped together, Shiro was filled with regret…… but first, leaving
737that aside… 
738
739As he could finally begin to question her, Sora looked toward the girl. 
740
741“––– we’ve been at this for so long and we still don’t know who the heck you 
742are?”
743 
744“Ah, I was late in introducing myself. My name is Plum, and as you can see, I
745am a Dhampir.” 
746
747Sitting in an upright posture on her knees, the girl –– Plum –– 
748continued speaking with a stern expression.
749 
750“I have something to, ugh…… request of you today.”
751 
752She stuttered while taking out a thing that looked like a cheat sheet.
753 
754“Ahem!” She cleared her throat.
755 
756Then she slowly bent her three fingers as if drawing a bow, and read
757her script in a clumsy tone. 
758 
759“P-Please forgive me for my laughable appearance in our first meeting……
760the ones who joined with the Flugel and the Eastern Union, Elchea’s king
761and queen, Your Majesties Sora and Shiro ––– please save my race!” 
762
763……Having heard her words, Sora seemed to understand everything. 
764
765“Aaaahhh, being able to replace blood with semen but requiring the 
766other’s consent to proceed ––– and now coming to us for help.”
767The conditions to the entire scenario were like that of a fantasy. 
768
769––– And so? Is this fantasy upon us now? 
770
771Sora immediately gave his judgement, and a hearty smile appeared on his 
772face……
773 
774“The conditions are that you have to move to an H-game (somewhere else).
775Bye. Be careful on your way back.” 
776
777“How did this even happen, aaaaahhhhh!? Wait a minute youuuuu!!” 
778
779…… Needless to say, the M18 scenario was immediately rejected. 
780
781
782Part 2
783––– Long after the inter-racial war. 
784
785Sora brought up his grand plan to 『overturn the entire world』. 
786
787Within their world were very many races, which held a myriad of 
788problems just from their different histories, ideologies and cultures.
789 
790Yet, Sora wanted to break all the boundaries between races. She began to
791realize how undoubtedly ridiculous his plot was. 
792
793And that was to produce 『a single country of many races』. 
794
795In a world where everything is decided by games, it is possible to achieve it 
796in theory.
797 
798But it is still only a theory at the end of the day.
799 
800“…… is it really okay to give it to them?”
801 
802As she thought about the two siblings who were planning to bring the
803races together and obtain all their race pieces in order to challenge the
804One True God, her mouth slanted to a side. 
805
806With that ridiculous dream of obtaining a 『piece』 in mind, would they 
807really be able to escape from this 『chess board』?
808 
809Would they really be able to fulfil every one of those conditions……?
810 
811The girl who was deep in thought had animal ears of a fox and long hair,
812as well as two flitting gold tails. 
813She was the Eastern Union and the Werebeasts’ sole representative,
814『Miko』. 
815
816Within the courtyard of her shrine, she was standing on a small red bridge 
817that was built across a pond. As she looked across the railing to the
818reflection of the moon on the water, she was engrossed in thought. 
819
820There are far too many obstacles. 
821
822Breaking the boundaries between races was a difficult situation even 
823when it was just between two races ––– the Imanity and the Werebeasts.
824
825Even if all their citizens were from the same race, in order to unite 
826them towards the same goal, it was as impossible as ascending past the
827stars. 
828
829There existed countless werebeast tribes, and they had previously been in 
830civil strife for over thousands of years.
831 
832It was 『Miko』, who bet her everything and even forgot her own real
833name, in order to finally unite the entire Eastern Union. 
834
835…… But because she had done this, she knew very deeply how long and 
836difficult that such a road would be.
837 
838In addition, containing sixteen different races within a single country
839definitely cannot be achieved through normal means. 
840
841But if it were possible, then, by those two, it would have already been……
842 
843“Well whatever, I’ll look into it once more… hahaha.”
844 
845––– In the past, even she had found the dream of uniting the werebeasts to
846be so ridiculously high and unobtainable, but she still managed to achieve it
847in the end. 
848Compared to myself in the past, they might actually be a little more
849conservative? 『Miko』 deprecated herself in that very thought, while
850she poured wine into her glass. 
851
852“We’re playing together peacefully…… are we not?” 
853
854Miko recited the 『Ten Oaths』 while taking a sip of her wine. 
855
856––– In the past, when she had issued challenges, she had pretty much 
857given up on her dream.
858 
859Now 『those two』, who were brimming with confidence, were already
860speaking of how they would follow-up after their dream had been
861achieved 
862
863––– which was an even more distant future than what was impending on 
864them
865 
866––– but in contrast, she had already given up on this new chapter.
867 
868But…
869 
870“If they’re looking towards god when there are only flowers before
871them, they are most likely to stumble over a stone on the way.” 
872
873Anyone can dream big. 
874
875But if they wish to talk about their dream, they must be qualified to do so. 
876
877When they finally show all the cards in their hand to the public, while 
878displaying that they are fully qualified, and do all this in time……
879
880『Miko』 raised her hand towards the sky, and something began shining in 
881her palm…… The 『race piece of the Werebeasts』 had appeared.
882 
883That was what the One True God had allocated when he set the rules of
884the world. 
885
886Along with the implementation of the 『Ten Oaths』, he had given each 
887race a
888chess piece. 
889 
890Only the sole representative of each of the Exceed had the power to make it
891appear. It shone brilliantly, as if it was woven from light itself. 
892
893––– She finally realized the true meaning of these pieces. 
894
895Miko placed her empty wine cup on the railing of the bridge, and played 
896with the pawn with her fingers. She looked up hopefully towards the sky.
897 
898––– In her heart, she looked forward to 『the moment』 that would arrive
899in the near future. 
900
901
902
903
904
905
906
907
908
909
910
911
912
913
914
915
916
917
918
919 
920Chapter 1 - Encounter/lıʌǝ  ǝɥ⊥ 
921Part 1
922Kingdom of Elchea. 
923
924It was located on the western part of the continent of Andalusia, and the 
925last country of Imanity, who were the sixteenth-ranked of the Exceed.
926 
927After their battle with the Eastern Union less than half a month ago, [the
928king and queen] i.e. Sora and Shiro won their matches and restored their
929territory to double its previous size. 
930
931……Following which, the problems of the country also doubled. 
932
933There were two major issues. 
934
935The first was the idea of forming a federation with the Eastern Unions that 
936[the king and queen] i.e. Sora and Shiro had proposed.
937 
938Establishing a country across the racial barriers was simply unheard of,
939and thus a huge problem. 
940
941Even though they had regained a portion of their territory, Elchea still 
942lacked the technology to properly utilize these lands.
943 
944The other problem was that, while the Eastern Union had lost its
945mainland territories, its national strength still remained one of the top in
946the world. 
947
948…… their national strength, currency, not to mention social structures, 
949ethnicity and language were totally different, yet they were expected to
950have equal access to resources. 
951
952Since it is such an obviously difficult situation, I believe there isn’t any need to 
953further elaborate.
954This was the first time in history that Imanity was faced with such
955an impossible task. 
956
957And the second problem was…… 
958 
959“Really……”
960 
961Looking at the cards in her hand, the red haired girl breathed a long sigh.
962 
963Stephanie Dora.
964 
965Usually abbreviated as Steph.
966 
967She was a member of the previous royal family ––– a girl whose disposition
968was totally contrasting with what a previous king’s granddaughter should
969be. Even though she was harshly lacking in sleep and severely fatigued, her
970usually beautiful face …… was now filled with a scowl and she was emitting
971a dangerous aura. 
972
973The reason was the [second problem]. 
974
975And that was…… 
976
977“At such an important time, when the heck do those two bastards intend
978to come back ～～!?” 
979
980––– King City of Elchea, main conference room. 
981
982Her rant resounded through the entire conference room and it 
983shocked everyone present.
984 
985“……Dora-kou
986[2]
987, I understand how you feel… but it isn’t very good for a
988lady to say the word ‘bastard’, right?” 
989
990The one who spoke to advise Steph was standing by her side. He was a 
991mostly white figure, who looked older than any normal elderly man.
992 
993His face was mostly similar to Steph’s, as it was filled with a bitter
994expression. 
995
996His dog ears and tail were slightly drooping. Although he was draped in 
997a kimono, his robust physique was still unmistakable. He was one of the
998Werebeasts, Hatsuse Ino. 
999
1000He was the grandfather of the former Eastern Union ambassador (Hatsuse 
1001Izuna). The currently absent king and queen (Sora and Shiro) had forced
1002him to handle the problems of the country…… another victim following
1003Steph. 
1004 
1005“Dora-kou……? Eh? Were you talking to me?”
1006 
1007Steph lagged in responding. Ino nodded his head.
1008 
1009“Yes. As this is a formal occasion, I should use my better judgment and use
1010this suffix. Is there a problem?” 
1011
1012“And I was wondering who you were referring to…… please address me as 
1013[the errand girl of the king and queen] instead.”
1014 
1015Seeing Steph’s smile of low self-esteem, Ino shrugged his shoulders.
1016 
1017“I’m afraid that if I were to address you so impolitely, others would also
1018address me in a similar manner…… Back to the topic though, Dora-kou,
1019shouldn’t you be putting your focus onto the things at hand?” 
1020
1021Following Ino’s line of sight, Steph began to remember the present 
1022situation…… she then began to speak inwardly to herself.
1023 
1024“Sigh…… Well said……”
1025 
1026Just tell yourself that you’re just going through an important game right now.
1027The game was not anything particularly special, as it was just normal poker. 
1028
1029Other than the fact that Jokers were included in this game, it was just a 
1030regular game of poker.
1031 
1032–– Elchea had established a federation with the Eastern Union, with the
1033former as the leader. 
1034
1035With Elchea’s territory doubled, there was still the matter of who it should 
1036be distributed to and what it should be used to do…
1037 
1038The powerful feudal lords were the ones who were reaping tremendous
1039benefits. 
1040
1041From the current situation, the so-called [equal and multi-racial country] 
1042was just an illusion.
1043 
1044No matter how complex the system, the massive gap between the two
1045nation’s strength could not be offset. 
1046 
1047The day a free market economy is implemented, Elchea would probably be
1048totally and utterly trashed. 
1049
1050Thus, they were trying to allocate the [continental resources] that the 
1051Eastern Union had requested for.
1052 
1053Although it is relevant to say that such is simply Elchea’s fate.
1054 
1055–––– It is inevitable that whoever has the power to do so will clump
1056together to try to maximize their benefits during these times. 
1057
1058For these reasons, there was a constant stream of Elchea’s feudal lords 
1059challenging Steph, who currently held legislative power, to a game with
1060the intention of fulfilling their demands.
1061The result was… Steph could not sleep properly for the past two weeks, and 
1062was forced to continue playing games against them.
1063 
1064(Getting challenged to a game is such a good thing… yeah.)
1065 
1066Steph muttered in her heart, because… it was a trap.
1067 
1068Everything is moving smoothly as planned…
1069
1070That’s right…… all is good except for the 『volume』 that I’m up against. 
1071
1072“『All in』––– please hurry up and strip off your clothes?” 
1073
1074…… what happened to her lady manners? 
1075
1076Because she was immensely fatigued, deep dark circles emerged under 
1077her eyes, and rage had distorted her expression––– it was simply…
1078 
1079Her face gave reminiscence to their fear of the 『king』. The feudal
1080lords looked to each other. 
1081
1082Then they selected 『fold』 ––– which means that they were now forced 
1083to obey Steph’s proposal.
1084 
1085However ––– Steph used her loud voice to render them speechless. She
1086kicked aside her chair and stood up. 
1087
1088“…… Since you were willing to accept my proposal from the beginning, why 
1089did you make me waste all my time!?”
1090 
1091She threw the cards on the table and spread them. Her hand was……
1092 
1093––– Five of a kind.
1094[3]
1095
1096 
1097Even if they had not folded, it would have the same result. Everyone was
1098eliminated at one go. Looking at that hand of cards, the feudal lords 
1099turned pale.
1100 
1101But Steph chose to ignore them, and turned to walk away. “If you don’t win
1102everything, you lose everything (all or nothing)! Please only return once all
1103your hopes are shattered, okay!?” 
1104
1105Following which, Hatsuse Ino took over from Steph, and smiled pleasantly 
1106at them.
1107 
1108“Then, as ‘pledged to the Oaths’ earlier, I will now eliminate your
1109memories. Sorry about that.”
1110
1111
1112Part 2
1113–– To put it bluntly, it was a ‘conflict of interests’. 
1114
1115Managing the recovered territories properly would profitably contribute to 
1116the countries in the alliance.
1117 
1118Even if we’re unwilling to hand them over, we still have to let our
1119territories be managed by somebody. Naturally, benefits would be
1120reaped if there is a successful outcome. 
1121
1122–––– Or rather, we cannot do it any other way, so this is for the best after all. 
1123
1124The problem lay within the fact that the nobles would move against 
1125the original proposition of whose land is whose.
1126 
1127Thinking further, those were the territories that the former king ––
1128Steph’s deceased grandfather –– had lost in his gambles. 
1129
1130Since he had bet with them on his own volition, there would certainly 
1131have been some of the opposition that was left dissatisfied.
1132 
1133But…… if that was the case, why hadn’t they used a game to stop the former
1134king back then? 
1135
1136“How irresponsible of them! Whenever they lose out, they’ll cry that it’s the 
1137king’s fault! But once Sora and Shiro take the territories back, they’d rush to
1138seize a slice for themselves…… Do these nobles not have an ounce of shame
1139in them!?” 
1140
1141“Aristocracy is such a system. Wouldn’t anyone turn out like that after 
1142being like that for so long?”
1143Steph unhappily walked through a corridor in Elchea City. Behind her
1144was Ino, who was smiling while he spoke. 
1145
1146The problem isn’t that they are aristocrats. 
1147
1148No matter how corrupt they are, they are still rulers with excellent 
1149knowledge on how to operate and manage territory.
1150 
1151As long as they have the heart and capabilities to do so, entrusting the
1152territories to them to manage was unavoidable ––– that was what Steph
1153was thinking. 
1154
1155The problem was…… 
1156
1157“Just think of the nobles who were protesting earlier… each one of them
1158practically had the words 『I’m only here to gain profit. Don’t throw any
1159trouble my way』. AHHHHH……!!” 
1160
1161–––– And those who deliberately act that way are all feudal lords who hold 
1162power that is impossible to overlook.
1163 
1164If it is not managed well, a power struggle may result…… And once a revolt
1165has been instigated, it would give them an excuse to interfere in national
1166affairs. 
1167
1168At that time… 
1169
1170“Wouldn’t that be easy…… easy to deal with, that is.” 
1171
1172The one who had come up with that plan was walking behind Steph with 
1173a sinister smile on his face ––– Hatsuse Ino.
1174 
1175When Sora and Shiro were absent, the one left in charge of national affairs
1176was the former king’s granddaughter (Steph)…… Such a rumor was spread
1177on purpose. 
1178Subsequently, this situation brought about a great opportunity. The
1179challengers earlier, who were pursuing their own interests, had lost and
1180were punished in accordance to the oaths. They had promised to [lose all
1181their memories during the game], and to put it flatly, it was a [clean
1182sweep]. 
1183
1184As a result, the policies and beneficial punishment implemented by 
1185Steph were able to proceed smoothly with no resistance.
1186 
1187It was very effective, and had Ino’s style embedded in the plan ––– which
1188was a style developed by the multi-tribal Eastern Union to make others
1189fall into their trap. 
1190
1191However, once they thought about the reason the plan was proceeding 
1192smoothly and how frequently it worked……
1193 
1194“Just how much do they look down on me!? They practically treat me like I
1195am an idiot!” 
1196
1197–––– It was easy to see that those people looked down on her and her 
1198grandfather.
1199 
1200“Alright, alright now. Dora-kou…… thanks to this, everything could proceed
1201smoothly. That is the truth. We should instead be welcoming these ignorant
1202peoples’ contempt ––– and smile while we make use of them, no?” 
1203
1204“––– Ino-san, can you please not address me like that… Just Steph is fine.”
1205 
1206––– Steph was the head of the Dora family, which was the former royal
1207family. Naturally, that means her title is [Duchess]. 
1208
1209Nevertheless, Steph continued speaking with a weary face. 
1210
1211“I’m just an errand girl. Call me that which doesn’t sound like the position 
1212of any person with honor……”
1213“But, when Sora-dono and Shiro-dono are absent, Stephanie-dono is 
1214essentially the representative of the royal family –––– so if we were to say
1215you are the prime minister, then doesn’t that give you the status of the
1216noblest person in Elchea?” 
1217
1218Ino continued speaking with his actor-like tone. 
1219“–––– Duchess Dora is the prime minister of Elchea, Imanity’s last
1220remaining country, and the former king’s granddaughter. She delivered
1221such a large-scale and unprecedented plan to construct a multi-racial
1222country that merged with the Eastern Union under Elchea’s leadership.
1223Truly a beautiful, young and talented woman……! How would such a
1224person be addressed?” 
1225
1226–––– Who would that be? 
1227
1228Steph looked up blankly to the ceiling. 
1229
1230“The female protagonist of this heroic story is actually just an errand girl. 
1231The rich ironic twist to this story isn’t half bad, eh.”
1232 
1233Steph followed up by saying, “Do you intend to write the story and publish
1234it?” Upon hearing this, Ino smiled wryly and proceeded to change the
1235topic. 
1236
1237“But, within these two weeks, Steph did not even lose a single time. That 
1238is truly a great feat to accomplish.”
1239 
1240“That’s only because the opponents were weaklings.”
1241 
1242While Ino had given a sincere compliment, he was immediately shot down
1243in a sentence. Steph wrinkled her brow. 
1244
1245“Those guys are just some foolish idiots with crude ways of cheating. If the 
1246opponent was Sora or Shiro, I’ll definitely be ridiculed to their best
1247abilities, and then taken advantage of…… Surely I needn’t say more.”
1248“Well, that is indeed true……” 
1249
1250Nonetheless, Ino thought to himself. 
1251
1252Initially, Steph relied on Ino’s assistance as a Werebeast to accelerate her 
1253five senses.
1254 
1255But Steph continued her winning streak ––– and now, Ino was only
1256escorting her around. 
1257
1258Although this girl greatly underestimated her own strength…… the fact is 
1259that she is indeed –– very strong. 
1260
1261In comparison with 『those two (Sora and Shiro)』, they are simply too 
1262strong to speak of.
1263 
1264As for normal Imanity, very few would be able to beat her skill.
1265 
1266Steph had no idea what Ino was thinking about, and continued complaining.
1267 
1268“And they totally didn’t realize I was cheating. Was it those feudal lords
1269true motive simply to make me suffer from lack of sleep and die of
1270fatigue!?” 
1271
1272“…… Stephanie-dono, you’re starting to sound more and more like Sora 
1273and the like.”
1274 
1275––– Wham!
1276 
1277Steph stomped on the floor, and stopped walking.
1278 
1279“––– What did you just say?”
1280 
1281Her body was motionless while she turned her head, and emitted a sound
1282like her bones were vibrating.
1283“Did you just say…… I’m similar to that loose king who’s playing around in
1284the Eastern Union!?” 
1285
1286“Pl-Please calm down! I only meant that your style of gameplay is very 
1287similar!”
1288 
1289––– The ways Steph had adopted to win…
1290 
1291They were to calculate the opening attack, hide her cards, swap her
1292cards, and shuffling skills… 
1293
1294Then to see through the opponent’s cheat and use it against him, and even 
1295to bluff and mind-game
1296[4]
1297 the opponent.
1298 
1299Those tactics were all learnt from ––– challenging Sora and Shiro, after
1300having failed time and time again. 
1301 
1302The fact was that Steph was initially so afraid that if she were to lose, she 
1303would make the implementation of a federation even harder. Thus, she was 
1304so nervous that she was able to realize what Sora and Shiro would do in
1305such a situation while in her games. 
1306
1307However, her lack of sleep coupled with the fact that those two had yet to 
1308come back had ignited a flame within her, thus easing all her nerves.
1309Eventually, Steph began to unconsciously play as if she was playing
1310against Sora and Shiro in her games. 
1311
1312However, the opponent was too weak and practically just trash. Steph 
1313could not tolerate herself thinking of those people as Sora and Shiro for
1314even a second. 
1315
1316––– She and her grandfather… 
1317
1318–––––– were being looked down upon by such trash.
1319––––––––– That fact made it ––– even harder to tolerate –––––– “Ah.” 
1320
1321Suddenly, Steph looked as if she had suddenly been enlightened. Her 
1322expression changed completely.
1323 
1324“Aahh, that’s right. The nobles are just trying to get in the way of the
1325establishment of a federation. That’s why it’s been so difficult.” 
1326
1327“St-Stephanie-dono?” 
1328
1329Seeing her change into a different person, Ino uneasily called out to her. 
1330
1331But, she did not seem to hear a thing…… rather, she seemed to be looking at 
1332something that was not there.
1333 
1334Steph’s eyes suddenly lit up with brilliance and excitement. She happily 
1335turned on the spot. 
1336
1337“––– Ino-san, regardless of whether we’re approached by nobles, 
1338merchants or guilds, let’s win away all their possessions, and force them to
1339step down from their positions with nothing left on them. Everything can
1340just be managed by the government instead!? If we’re short on manpower,
1341we’ll just grab some of the citizens and appoint them as officials. If anyone
1342dares to do anything corrupt, we’ll just force them to spit out their guts till
1343they’re nothing but bones. If they continue to be rotten, we’ll just arrest
1344them and get all of them deported. This way, we can make the treasury rich,
1345and negotiations for laws and policies can just be decided by ourselves. All
1346our problems would be solved, right? I’m such a genius! I, I’m not an
1347idiot…… Not an idiot～～ 
1348 
1349～～～～!!”
1350 
1351––– And then she collapsed.
1352 
1353“St-Stephanie-dono, please get ahold of yourself! Such is an act of
1354abolishment ––– an act of terrorism!!”
1355Steph was shouting while crying and smiling. She then hit a wall with
1356her forehead. 
1357
1358All of a sudden, she felt something move… as she looked to the moving 
1359sight…… in front of her was –––
1360 
1361––– Sora was there.
1362 
1363“Aaaaahhhh……!”
1364 
1365Where had you run off to slack around at?
1366 
1367He threw all the preparatory work to me, and went off to have fun by
1368himself. 
1369
1370Although there were many feelings in her heart, what she was feeling most 
1371was so much joy that she was blushing because of the fact that Sora was
1372right there. 
1373
1374She had no way of hiding the joy in her chest, and many complex 
1375feelings started swelling up……
1376 
1377“So-Sora! You’re back–––– HIGII––!?”
1378 
1379Steph was rushing forward, but her face hit a pole and her nose started
1380bleeding while she made strange wailing sounds. 
1381
1382Her body laid on the floor like a stick figure
1383[5]
1384, and she stared at the
1385ceiling above her…… then, she suddenly realized… 
1386
1387The ‘Sora’ that she saw was…… 
1388
1389Was a reflection of something in the shiny polished marble column ––––– 
1390[her own face].
1391 
1392Upon realizing this, Steph mustered a single sentence while in pain…
1393“……………………… I can’t go on any longer.” 
1394
1395 
1396“Stephanie-dono, you should get some sleep. No, I should say, please, you
1397must get some sleep. I beg of you.” 
1398
1399Ino propped up Steph who was lying paralyzed on the floor while he 
1400continued speaking.
1401 
1402“…… Do not worry. Sora-dono and Shiro-dono are… indeed two people who
1403are difficult to understand.” 
1404
1405He put in his best effort to think optimistically about the siblings who 
1406were impossible for anyone to comprehend.
1407 
1408“But since they are stranded in the Eastern Union, they are probably
1409arbitrating upon certain conditions with Miko-sama…… probably?” 
1410
1411While the federation was established with Elchea as its leader, it was still 
1412not enough to rely only on Elchea’s efforts.
1413 
1414“I also think that that’s where they are…… they definitely should be
1415progressing through a [summit].” 
1416
1417––– Maybe it was like that. 
1418
1419The actions of Sora and Shiro were always never on track. 
1420
1421 
1422However, their actions –––– had always played a huge role in Elchea.
1423 
1424That was the truth.
1425And so they should put their faith in them –––– but –––– 
1426
1427“…… Who knows? Judging from the way that those two usually speak and 
1428act, they’re sure to confuse public and private matters, ah……”
1429 
1430Indeed, the fact was that their actions were always in line with their own
1431desires. 
1432
1433Looking in the direction of the Eastern Union, Steph complained angrily. 
1434
1435“…… In any case, they’re definitely fooling around with the Kemonomimi 
1436girls right now, holing up in a room engrossed in their games, or doing
1437something that any human being would deem incorrigible.” 
1438 
1439…… Ino had no way of denying that statement.
1440
1441
1442Part 3
1443–––– Now changing location. The Eastern Union’s capital, Kannagari. Similar 
1444to Elchea’s King City, the representative of the Werebeasts lives in Miko’s
1445Shrine
1446[6]
1447. The courtyard of the central edifice. It was filled with a lavish
1448natural landscape, and where there were gaps, it was painted with either
1449red or black. One cannot help but think that it is a Japanese garden. 
1450
1451This area was normally prohibited to unrelated people and the like. 
1452However, at that moment, there was a mass of people gathered next to the
1453sacred pond. 
1454
1455“…… Miko-sama, what is love?” 
1456
1457“……Tell us, Miko-sama……” The one who was asking these questions
1458seriously had a head of black hair and black eyes. He was a teenager who
1459wore a shirt with 『I ♥ Imanity』 on it. Sitting on his lap was a girl with
1460white hair and red eyes. 
1461
1462They were the king and queen of Elchea –––– the sole representatives of 
1463Imanity, Sora and Shiro.
1464 
1465The truth behind the crowd was that those two were petting several
1466species of Werebeasts ––– Kemonomimi girls ––– while making delicate
1467and charming sounds. In addition, there was a long queue of Kemonomimi
1468girls looking on with faces that were bursting with envy. 
1469
1470“…… What should I say? Even though there’s so much to say……” 
1471
1472Speaking with a voice that sounded like wind chimes was a woman who 
1473was sitting on the opposite side of the game board.
1474 
1475No one knew her real name, and she was a golden fox with two lush tails.
1476She was the Werebeasts’ representative who had total authority over the
1477race 
1478
1479–––– [Miko]. 
1480
1481“…… I’ve been meaning to ask the two of you…… What on earth is in your 
1482heads?”
1483 
1484The three people were in the middle of a game called [Corner Sparrow]. It
1485was a unique traditional game of the Eastern Union. 
1486
1487––– Although it was some aspects in common with [Mahjong], it was 
1488essentially a completely different game.
1489 
1490“What? Ah, okay, I win again.”
1491 
1492“…… This game…… is pretty…… interesting……”
1493 
1494––– They were petting the countless Werebeast girls while asking the
1495flippant question of ‘what love was’. 
1496
1497––– Yet, they had easily mastered this game, which they had just seen for 
1498the first time and heard the rules of only a few tens of minutes ago.
1499 
1500In that very short period of time, they had formulated strategies that
1501maximize in efficiency and countless arrangements –––– and even worked
1502out a few ways to cheat. 
1503
1504But that was not the biggest problem…… Miko had mixed feelings, and 
1505smiled bitterly while she sighed.
1506 
1507“How the heck did your cheat escape my notice? Tell me?”
1508 
1509––– Even though she was depending on her five senses, Miko could not
1510perceive the slightest of flaws in their movements. 
1511
1512Sora smiled like a hippie while replying her. 
1513“Oh? You’re going as far as to say that we cheated? How disgraceful. But,
1514Shiro did memorize all the cards that were facing down while tracing their
1515positions, and I only pretended to shuffle so that I could control the cards
1516that Shiro might need –––– This isn’t to be called a cheat.” 
1517
1518Indeed, one of the two reasons why what they did could not be deemed as 
1519a cheat–––
1520 
1521––– was that those two had not seen their opponent’s cards at all, and
1522were only speculating what was in each other’s hand. 
1523
1524“Also, Miko did the same. We’re both in the same boat, eh?” 
1525 
1526The second reason was that she still lost to them when under the
1527same conditions… 
1528
1529They had only chatted with her for a while, yet they had already beaten her 
1530in a game that she was playing for over fifty years.
1531 
1532–––– Her opponents had faced her directly with the strength to win, and
1533had exceeded her in terms of points…… There was nothing she could do
1534about that. 
1535
1536She had been so thoroughly defeated, yet she felt overjoyed. 
1537
1538Miko’s cheeks perked up as she forced a smile, while Sora began to state his 
1539demands.
1540 
1541“Alright, ‘as pledged to the oaths’, I may request of three things from you
1542 
1543–––– no problems there, right?”
1544 
1545Facing the helplessly smiling Miko, Sora continued his speech.
1546 
1547“Firstly, I ask you to take into account the interests of both nations, and
1548to objectively create a tax table in accordance with the import and export
1549of
1550different goods.” 
1551
1552Compared to Elchea, the Eastern Union knew their mainland resources 
1553like the back of their hands. That should have been obvious enough.
1554 
1555Then, the only person who could accurately evaluate the gap between the
1556two countries’ national strength, and also to strive to meet the interests of
1557both sides, was [Miko], the sole representative of the Eastern Union. There
1558was not a more appropriate candidate around. 
1559
1560Since it is to implicitly ‘take into account the interests of both countries’, 
1561the benefits cannot go unilaterally to the Eastern Union.
1562 
1563Miko admired in her heart the fact that there were never any holes in
1564their plans, but… 
1565
1566“…… In other words, you guys are throwing all the work onto me once 
1567again……”
1568 
1569In the past half a month, Sora and Shiro were really hard at [work].
1570 
1571They visited Miko’s residence every day, and bet for the interests of both
1572countries in games. 
1573
1574…… Indeed, they were remarkably efficient in their work. They had been 
1575victorious over Miko in every single game. If you were to overlook how
1576they threw all of their substantive workload onto Miko, it was an
1577impeccable feat. 
1578
1579“Specialized work should be assigned to those who specialize in it. Since 
1580Miko-sama only spent half a century to unite this huge country, I believe
1581in your abilities ♪ ” 
1582
1583Upon hearing how easily Sora replied her, Miko laughed while scratching 
1584her hair.
1585The federal system used by the two combined nations… 
1586
1587It seemed to be a reference to their original world’s United States of 
1588America. This move was unprecedented, and thus involved numerous
1589obstacles which needed solutions and compromises to be made. The
1590friction between the two countries also needed to be reduced to a
1591minimum. So, they decided to throw all of these things to Miko to get
1592resolved. 
1593
1594In truth, that was the most correct approach. Although Sora and Shiro 
1595were super gamers, they were no politicians.
1596 
1597However, Miko’s forced smile was for a different reason.
1598 
1599As of that day, she had attempted to win against Sora and Shiro several
1600times 
1601
1602––– and failed. 
1603
1604This time, she thought she would be able to win with a game they had 
1605never seen before, but she still suffered a beautiful defeat.
1606 
1607In addition, she had used a lot of tricks, hoping to win some benefits for
1608the Eastern Union…… but the result was that she completely failed to
1609trick or win against them. 
1610 
1611However, to formulate the policy in this way, as Sora and Shiro said, it
1612would thoroughly meet the ‘interests of both countries’. However, be it
1613Elchea or the Eastern Union, there would be some short-term losses, but
1614long-term benefits will definitely be reaped on both sides –––– looking at
1615the records of these documented policies, Miko could not help but sigh. 
1616
1617She had no complaints. 
1618
1619However, since she was always trying to deceive those two with cheats, 
1620she began to feel a little guilty.
1621 
1622The problem lay with their second request which was incidentally…
1623“Okay, the second request is as usual –––– let us stroke Miko-sama!” 
1624
1625“…… stroke……” 
1626
1627––– Indeed, they would senselessly bet for the rights to stroke Miko every 
1628time before starting the game.
1629 
1630“Well, since you are seriously considering government policies, I’ll let
1631you have a touch……” 
1632
1633Miko sighed while looking at the stack of documents that was 
1634constantly piling up.
1635 
1636Then, she slowly swung her two golden tails over to them to let them touch.
1637 
1638“OKAY! It’s here! Let’s go, Shiro!”
1639 
1640“…… Today we must definitely…… make Miko moan……”
1641 
1642With shining eyes, Sora and Shiro pounced onto Miko. Miko laughed bitterly
1643while she thought ––– 
1644
1645––– the Werebeasts who are the Exceed’s fourteenth ranked race… 
1646
1647They could exceed the limits of their body’s physical capabilities. 
1648
1649This was naturally impossible for humans to achieve, and needless to say, 
1650it defied the laws of physics.
1651 
1652The way they used to make this possible ––– was to rely on the
1653elementals within their body. 
1654 
1655…… All life in this world had some amount of ‘Elemental’ within their
1656bodies. 
1657
1658There were elemental corridors to retain strength or make connections that
1659were like nerves –– and the [external elementals (magic)] was what 
1660determined the ranks. As the fourteenth rank, the Werebeasts had a
1661meagre connection, and were thus incapable of using magic. 
1662
1663But as for [the elementals within each body], the only race who would 
1664be unconscious to their use was the Imanity.
1665 
1666The Werebeasts utilized the strength of their body’s elementals to
1667achieve heights that humans would be amazed at. 
1668
1669A good example would be [Bad Blood] which was used by Izuna and Miko.
1670 
1671By controlling the elementals within their body, they could enhance the
1672performance of their body and cast a field of self-destruction. That was
1673the skill of the Werebeasts. 
1674
1675But the price paid for circulating elementals through their bodies was a 
1676special phenomenon that endlessly causes disorder.
1677 
1678And that specific phenomenon had a greater impact depending on how
1679weak the body of the Werebeast is. 
1680
1681The result on the Werebeast race was a chronic disorder of the 
1682elementals within one’s body, especially seen in women and children……
1683which was followed by discomfort. 
1684
1685It was not easy to solve this problem alone. 
1686
1687………… after saying so much, what was trying to be conveyed was…… 
1688
1689“…… Fluffy fluffy …… pet pet…… hehe……” 
1690
1691“ ––– !” 
1692
1693Under Shiro’s touch, Miko almost let out an ecchi sound, but managed to 
1694keep it in by dispersing her attention.
1695 
1696Sora and Shiro…… those two’s technique of leading around the elementals
1697within her body was ––– abnormally clever. 
1698Imanity should not be able to see elementals though.
1699 
1700Even if they were from another world, the technique to lead around
1701Elementals belonged to the field of high magic. 
1702
1703And yet, those two were…… 
1704
1705“––– Hng, right here!” 
1706
1707“–––––––––––– ! !” 
1708
1709…… The reaction was instantaneously captured with the touch that had 
1710substantially leaded around the elementals.
1711 
1712The result was inadvertently the elimination of the chronic disorder in
1713the Werebeasts due to the disorder in their body’s elementals. 
1714
1715This is… how would you call it –––– probably an exceedingly charismatic 
1716masseur?
1717 
1718–––– It’s only natural that this would attract such a long queue, right?
1719 
1720“…… What else? You did say that you wanted ‘three’ requests today…… Ah.”
1721 
1722Because of the accurate touch, she almost let out an ecchi sound. Miko
1723forcibly repressed it and bet on this opportunity to ask the two of them a
1724question. 
1725
1726“…… It’s about time to state it, right? Of course, I think it has something to 
1727do with this situation, right?”
1728 
1729She looked to Sora and Shiro who were being hugged by Werebeast girls
1730who were strangers to them, while they alternated between petting the
1731crowd. 
1732
1733To this point, Miko had been pretty much dying to say that. But, first 
1734putting that aside……
1735 
1736The two of them had their mouth and nose covered, and each wrapped with
1737a towel that seemed to be borrowed from Izuna. 
1738
1739Sora was wearing what looked to be cat ears, and Shiro was wearing 
1740rabbit ears. Jibril stood behind them, and for some reason or another, she 
1741had slightly drooping dog ears on her head. Izuna stood by her side, with
1742eyes eagerly looking onto Sora and Shiro who were petting Werebeast
1743girls, as if waiting for her turn. 
1744
1745 
1746
1747Miko then narrowed her eyes to look at the last person.
1748
1749  
1750
1751  
1752In her line of vision was a Dhampir girl who crouched in the corner of
1753the room whose body was constantly shivering. 
1754
1755“Last night, after I rejected the request issued by Plum, –– the Dhampir 
1756over there –– she went all over Kannagari to advertise the petting skills of
1757Shiro and me.” 
1758
1759The result seemed to be the long queue of Werebeast girls waiting to be 
1760stroked.
1761 
1762They had clearly covered their faces and used the space to divert others’
1763attention while going to Miko’s shrine, but the moment they stepped out
1764and walked a little, the scenario completely changed…… Sora shrugged his
1765shoulders and laughed bitterly. 
1766
1767“She threatened to keep up this troublesome behavior until I promised 
1768to rescue the Dhampir race.”
1769 
1770“………… Is that so……”
1771 
1772“Master, this should be enough. You should just use a game and bet for her
1773head, win, then chop her head off ♥” 
1774
1775“I’m s-s-sorry…… b-but this is an important matter which involves the 
1776survival of an entire race!”
1777 
1778A single glance by Jibril who was emitting a murderous aura caused Plum
1779to huddle in her corner and let out a cry of misery. 
1780
1781“–––– That is, regarding my third request……” “Un.” 
1782
1783“Please use your status as the werebeasts’ sole representative to order 
1784them that, whenever we take the initiative to go out, they are not to come
1785looking for us. If not, they’d just line up outside the main door of Izuna’s
1786house, and we’d be too scared to enter their line of sight that we wouldn’t
1787even touch the
1788door, and thus be unable to state the original purpose of our visit.” 
1789
1790………… 
1791
1792––– Miko looked as if she had much to say. 
1793 
1794But, in order to hear what his original purpose was, she used a sharp tone
1795and spoke. 
1796
1797“––– Step down.” 
1798
1799With only that sentence, the Kemonomimi girls were immediately so 
1800scared that their hairs stood on edge, then they repeatedly bowed their
1801heads while scrambling to escape from the shrine’s garden. 
1802
1803Moreover, Shiro was waving goodbye in the direction of their backs. 
1804
1805“That should be it. –––– So, what was it you wanted to talk seriously about?” 
1806
1807Miko had an intolerant expression when she asked. Sora nodded solemnly 
1808in response.
1809 
1810“Yup, –––– it’s a major issue that puts both Elchea and the Eastern Union at
1811stake.” 
1812
1813Sora started the topic, and no longer had his usual slovenly appearance. 
1814He wore a very serious look on his face, like he had encountered a
1815problem which was extremely difficult to solve. 
1816
1817Accordingly, Miko proceeded to sit opposite Sora. 
1818
1819Sora said, “You know the capital in the sea that’s south of the Eastern 
1820Union; the country called Oceando?"
1821 
1822“That’s our neighbouring country. Of course I know of it. It’s the nation of
1823the
1824Seirens.” 
1825
1826––– Seirens. 
1827
1828The Exceed’s fifteenth ranked, which was above Imanity by a single rank, 
1829and below the Werebeasts by a single rank.
1830 
1831Their capital was located beneath the deep sea, and because they could only
1832live underwater, they were not interested in acquiring territories. 
1833
1834They were also a race with a special ecology, and thus they have minimal 
1835transactions with other nations and were closed off to the rest of the
1836world. 
1837What on earth is the purpose of bringing up the country composed of
1838those people……? 
1839
1840Miko stared with that question in her eyes. Sora responded with a 
1841vigorous nod. “Indeed. This is something that involves them, Miko-sama…”
1842 
1843Sora inhaled deeply.
1844 
1845“… Like I was saying, Miko-sama, what is love?”
1846 
1847“I’ll say this one more time. If you’re asking for a fight, I can take you on. ♥”
1848 
1849Miko’s smile stretched through her face ––– but she exuded an aura which
1850looked as if she was preparing to activate [Bad Blood]. 
1851
1852Her fur turned slightly reddish, and she let out a low growl. 
1853
1854
1855Part 4
1856––– Returning to a time some time back: last night. 
1857
1858The H-game was set at a different location, so as Sora had declared, he 
1859coldly rejected all demands.
1860 
1861Plum clung onto Sora’s feet, begging wildly while on the verge of bursting
1862into tears. 
1863
1864“P-Please wait! I can only ask this of you, Your Majesty!” 
1865
1866“You’re irritating! I do not intend to get involved with something that 
1867clearly rated M-18! Please get yourselves acquainted with these limits!”
1868
1869The race known as the [Dhampirs] used a white turbid liquid to substitute 
1870for blood as food.
1871 
1872––– Regardless of whatever manner it was to be implemented, it would
1873be sent to the restricted area of the room with no excuses. 
1874
1875“No, it’s ––––– Ahh, no, some people also became like that……” 
1876
1877“This has indeed turned into an H-game story!” 
1878 
1879“P-Please listen to my explanation! If we go on like this, our race will
1880perish!” 
1881
1882“…Uhh?” 
1883
1884“……Un?” 
1885
1886Sora and Shiro suddenly stopped what they were doing. Hearing those 
1887words made it impossible for them to ignore the situation.
1888The line of vision of those two intersected to confirm something. 
1889
1890––– A race perishing is a worrisome issue. 
1891
1892“…… I’ll listen to what you have to say. But hear this. If I judge the topic to 
1893touch on hentai, we’re ending this conversation immediately.”
1894 
1895Sora reluctantly sat on the floor cross-legged, and sighed when he finished
1896his sentence. 
1897
1898Shiro sat on Sora’s lap, and Jibril followed to sit beside them. 
1899
1900As for Izuna ––– perhaps due to fatigue, she huddled next to Sora’s body, 
1901and nodded off into sleep.
1902 
1903“Th---Thank you very much!”
1904 
1905Plum wore a teary eyed expression, and repeatedly bowed at Sora.
1906 
1907“Ugh…… Please hold on a moment……”
1908 
1909Some irregular patterns emerged out of her purple pupils……
1910 
1911All of a sudden…
1912 
1913…
1914 
1915––– What on earth were they doing?
1916 
1917In that short time, Jibril appeared before Plum’s face, and Izuna jumped in
1918a spiral to go behind Plum. 
1919
1920The actions of those two resulted in a surplus of air, which was still 
1921blowing through the room.
1922 
1923“……Eh?”
1924Plum screamed while staring blankly at Jibril’s sharp eyes who were 
1925staring back at hers.
1926 
1927“Don’t think you’re something great just because you managed to get close
1928to Master. But if you really think I will be silly and let you succeed a second
1929time, let me tell you this ––– know your place, you little worm.” 
1930
1931“Grandpa said that once I sense the scent of the magic of Dhapmirs, I must 
1932immediately avoid the other party’s eyes, des.”
1933 
1934Izuna growled. Her voice was cold and filled with wariness.
1935 
1936At this point, Sora trembled in fear and trepidation. To the two people who
1937had their guards up, he said, “I-I think…… because of the [Ten Oaths], she
1938should not be able to cause any harm, right?” 
1939
1940“Even if it does not result in harm, it is possible to disguise another’s 
1941cognition. That is to say…”
1942 
1943Her hostile gaze shifted to Plum’s [side].
1944 
1945“Concealing over there, a gigantic luggage ––– or such.”
1946 
1947Jibril stared to an empty space as if there was something there. Plum
1948waved frantically while she tearfully explained the situation. 
1949
1950“Th-This is a misunderstanding! I had only applied the disguising of 
1951cognition to myself!”
1952 
1953––– With a thunderous sound, numerous suitcases appeared from nowhere.
1954 
1955“…………Un.”
1956 
1957
1958Izuna sniffed with her nose, and then let her down her guard and returned 
1959to
1960Sora and Shiro’s side. 
1961
1962“As I had too much luggage, because of that… I just disguised the existence 
1963of the bags so that it would be easier to carry……”
1964 
1965It was at this time that Sora and Shiro grasped the situation and widened
1966their eyes in surprise. 
1967
1968“In other words… you hid the [existence] of your luggage, thus 
1969eliminating their weight?”
1970 
1971“No, it only removes the feeling of the volume and weight. It does not
1972imply the luggage disappeared.” 
1973
1974“So, when you first appeared, you were so fatigued because of…” 
1975
1976“…… This reason……?” 
1977
1978“S-Sorry…… ‘cuz it’s too heavy……” 
1979
1980Plum constantly bowed to apologize, but Jibril on the other hand… 
1981
1982“The Dhampirs’ [disguises and illusions] ––– they are at times superior to 
1983the Elves in regards to affecting one’s cognition through magic. Those
1984trunks of luggage had always been here…… we were just not aware of
1985them.” 
1986
1987“Uwa, but Jibril was aware of them?” 
1988
1989“It makes me sad to admit this but if I was not paying attention, I would 
1990have overlooked it. There will never be a second time.”
1991 
1992Jibril spoke with clenched fists and a lowered head. Nonetheless, Sora’s
1993gaze moved to her side. 
1994
1995“…… Izuna, why did you drop your guard?” 
1996“……? Because I did not smell the scent of lies, des?”
1997 
1998Perhaps she had become fatigued from moving so suddenly. Izuna had
1999curled up into a ball, and yawned when she replied. 
2000
2001“Un.” ––– Sora and Shiro narrowed their gaze. 
2002
2003In front of their eyes was Plum. She had flipped over her luggage and 
2004looked as if she was searching for something.
2005 
2006Then, she said, “I-I found it!” She unfolded a document…
2007 
2008“Umm, ugh…… rumor has it that Sora-sama intends to unite all the races.”
2009 
2010“……Yeah.”
2011 
2012That was the external reason.
2013 
2014They had merged with the Eastern Union and were preparing to create a
2015federation ––– such a large matter should have already been exposed to
2016the public. But as for who was controlling the race pieces, it should be a
2017secret kept between Sora, Shiro and Miko. 
2018
2019As he did not feel any special need to mention this, Sora simply expressed 
2020his affirmation.
2021 
2022“Let me get right to the point…”
2023 
2024Feeling satisfied at Sora’s reply, Plum continued her speech.
2025 
2026“Currently, we, the Dhampirs and Seirens, are on the verge of extinction.
2027Although we’ve tried every possible way…… we are still powerless. So we
2028hope to rely on the assistance of Sora-sama and his companions.” 
2029
2030……––––– Umm. 
2031
2032“Jibril, can you explain to me how the Dhampirs are related to the Seirens?” 
2033
2034Upon hearing Sora’s inquiry, Jibril quietly accepted his order and lowered 
2035her head. She began her explanation to Sora.
2036 
2037“After the implementation of the [Ten Oaths], the Dhampirs could not
2038absorb the blood of others without permission. Thus, they have to live
2039relying on others ––– the Seirens are also in a similar situation.” 
2040
2041“…… Heh?” 
2042
2043“…… the [Seirens]…… the fifteenth ranked…… are a race that can 
2044only…… live in the ocean.”
2045 
2046Shiro began to proceed with her explanation.
2047 
2048The Exceed’s fifteenth ranked Seirens ––– to simply put it, they were a
2049race of [mermaids]. 
2050 
2051They lived in the shallow portion of the ocean, and had the upper body of
2052a human and had a fish tail instead of legs. 
2053
2054Their ecology had certain particularities. The first of which was… that 
2055they could not leave the ocean for a long time.
2056 
2057Because of this, they built an undersea city named [Oceando] which was
2058a vast maritime territory. 
2059
2060The second particularity was that they were a race with only females. 
2061
2062In other words, their way of reproducing… 
2063
2064“…… requires…… [a male of a different race]……” 
2065
2066After hearing Shiro’s explanation, Sora looked to Jibril with half-open eyes.
2067“I say, be it the [Dhampirs] or the [Seirens], aren’t the biological defects of 
2068this world too serious?”
2069 
2070“There were no issues in the beginning… only after the implementation of
2071the [Ten Oaths].” 
2072
2073Jibril continued her speech. 
2074
2075“As the Seirens only needed to catch another race’s male and eat him, and 
2076the Dhampirs can just suck blood without saying anything, there were no
2077problems. But, they cannot do harm to others because of the [Ten Oaths]
2078––– perhaps other races had been hurt ––– but they should be the ones 
2079who were most deeply hurt.”
2080 
2081Jibril had a smile on her face, and emitted a murderous aura while
2082talking about the past. Sora directed a question to her. “……Sigh, what
2083do you mean by…… catching to eat? Exactly as it implies?” 
2084
2085At that moment, a grim image of girls, whose lower half was that of fishes, 
2086taking big bites and chewing up other races flashed through his mind… This
2087may have fallen under the M-18 ban for a different reason. Sora shuddered
2088at the thought. 
2089
2090However, Jibril shook her head. 
2091 
2092“No, because Master said to be healthy, so I put it subtly. It has a sexual
2093meaning.” 
2094
2095“How can there be such a heaven in existence?! I want to go! Jibril, let’s set 
2096off immediately!”
2097 
2098Sora joyfully stood up, but Jibril replied in surprise.
2099 
2100“You’d be extracted until exhaustion or even death. Is that really okay?”
2101“How can there be such a hell in existence… I don’t want to go…… I’d 
2102never go there in my life!”
2103 
2104…… The mermaids could not reproduce unless they drained the life of
2105someone of another race. 
2106
2107How much does this world want to betray my hopes and common sense until 
2108it is satisfied……
2109 
2110Sora’s mood instantly hit bottom. He sighed and sat back down.
2111 
2112Not understanding why Sora was dejected, Jibril continued her explanation.
2113 
2114“Anyway, the Dhampirs and Seirens are races that cannot live without
2115causing harm onto others. With the [Ten Oaths] hurting their survival, at
2116such a time, the Dhampirs must have set their target on the Seirens.” 
2117
2118Sora nodded. 
2119
2120“Yeah, ranking them as fifteenth between Imanity and the Werebeasts was 
2121a fitting choice. That means they cannot use magic either, right? No wonder
2122the Dhampirs, who are experts at illusions and disguise magic, unilaterally
2123intend to bait them out for food.” 
2124
2125Both races which were on the verge of extinction would not be worried 
2126about bets, I suppose.
2127 
2128The atmosphere was still full of murderous intent, but as it pertained to
2129a matter of survival… 
2130
2131Jibril was smiling happily instead. 
2132 
2133“Unfortunately, this matter seems to have turned a right angle and
2134dramatically changed…… it has become an issue well known all over the
2135world.”
2136––– Rather than going up a ramp, they were growing in the direction of a 
2137right angle. Jibril continued her speech happily.
2138 
2139“Getting bitten by a Dhampir will result in a [disease]…… I believe I’ve said
2140this before.” 
2141
2142“Yeah……” 
2143
2144“To simply put it, the disease is that [you will die if you get exposed to 
2145sunlight]. Since they are already unable to go ashore and have always lived
2146under the sea, the disease does not constitute a problem to the Seirens.” “––
2147– Un? Eh, that is to say?” 
2148
2149At that point, Plum smiled weakly and replied, “……Yes, we Dhampirs ––– 
2150
2151made this [symbiotic] proposal……” 
2152
2153Jibril continued speaking. “They adopted a strategy for the Seirens to 
2154provide blood, and the Dhampirs to provide magic to bait out other races
2155for food. The Dhampirs intended to put up a [united front] with the
2156Seirens.” 
2157
2158“That is really…” 
2159
2160“…… Amazing……” 
2161
2162Sora and Shiro praised them together in their hearts. 
2163
2164Even though they were facing the crisis of extinction, and it was impossible 
2165for them to pull any tricks –––
2166 
2167To think they managed to come up with the perfect escape route that
2168takes each other’s interests into account, and it was a correct and
2169problematic proposal ––– 
2170
2171“Yeah, they really are a race that greatly stupefies others ––– I’m referring 
2172to the Seirens.”
2173––– What? 
2174 
2175Jibril then smiled towards the pitiful Plum while she continued speaking.
2176 
2177“Because, to the Dhampirs who they are coexisting with ––– the Seirens
2178have actually [taken a bite] ~♪” 
2179
2180…………Eh? 
2181
2182“The result is that the Dhampirs lost tragically to the Seirens. The Dhampirs 
2183are now forced to find males to help the Seirens reproduce, and the males
2184of the Dhampirs are forbidden from sucking the blood of any race other
2185than the Seirens. What a baffling contract.” 
2186
2187…………–––––– Huh? 
2188
2189Perhaps even with Shiro’s intelligence, she had not foreseen such a 
2190situation. She looked towards Jibril and could not help but suspect that she
2191misheard those words. “…… Haha…… this is really so hilarious.” 
2192
2193Opposite them, Plum had somewhat of an expression of despair. 
2194
2195“My ancestors probably did not expect that ––– the Seirens did not 
2196understand the consequences of the [Ten Oaths], and unconsciously
2197contributed to their own extinction, I think…… haha.” 
2198
2199––– With her face full of misfortune, a gloomy smile emerged on her 
2200considerably fatigued face. “…… Ugh……? …… Nii…… What’s…… going
2201on?” 
2202
2203Shiro tilted her head in confusion, as if she had just been handed 
2204someone else’s big mess.
2205 
2206Sora responded to her and said, “––– Ahh~ In other words, I hope it
2207isn’t……”
2208Although it was an incredulous thought… Sora still proceeded to say it. 
2209
2210“The Dhampirs did not use their magic and made a fake game, and proposed 
2211that if there was a tie, they would have a symbiotic relationship with each
2212other… But, the Seirens did not understand the intentions of the Dhampirs 
2213and won the game unilaterally, and were so happy with the outcome ––– am 
2214I right?”
2215 
2216From Jibril’s pitying smile and Plum’s exhausted smile, one could tell it
2217was [totally correct]. 
2218
2219“……Sigh, the Seirens are idiots after all…” 
2220
2221“Their reputation reverberates to the heavens. The super idiots of 
2222three thousand worlds ♥ ”
2223 
2224“They really are a race that’s stupid to the extreme……haha.”
2225 
2226“Grandpa said that they were more stupid than hairless apes, des.”
2227 
2228Jibril who looked full of contempt, Plum, and even Izuna who should
2229have been asleep, answered Sora’s question without hesitation. 
2230
2231“…… This is too much. To think there was a race that could be looked down 
2232on more than the Imanity…… I am a little touched.”
2233 
2234However, Jibril continued her speech with a smile on her face.
2235 
2236“Well, that way, things get very interesting too ♪”
2237 
2238First, she put up a finger.
2239 
2240“To begin with, the Dhampirs can [survive] by consuming body fluids
2241other than blood.”
2242Then, she put up two fingers. 
2243
2244“But [growth] requires blood ––– if they do not mix their souls, they 
2245will always maintain a child-like appearance.”
2246 
2247Then, three fingers were put up.
2248 
2249“Because the Seirens need to suck the blood of only the males of other
2250races, but are barred from doing so because of the Oaths. However, because
2251they will maintain the appearance of a child, the Dhampirs will be unable to
2252reproduce amongst themselves. Thus, in order to obtain blood, the males
2253have to obey the Seirens, and in order to give birth, the females also have to
2254obey the Seirens.” 
2255
2256Following which, she put up four fingers. 
2257 
2258“Even if a Seiren were to disobediently flee from the city, they would
2259still carry a [disease] ––– that should be enough to understand, right?” 
2260
2261Finally, with a smile, Jibril put up five fingers. 
2262
2263“Because the Dhampirs have such idiotic opponents, they have been 
2264accidentally been driven to a corner. ♪”
2265 
2266…………
2267 
2268Shiro had already lost interest in this foolish story and was playing with
2269her nails. 
2270
2271Sora was also looking confused at the ceiling. Suddenly… 
2272
2273What Plum said flashed through Sora’s mind. 
2274
2275––– “Ahh, no, some people also became like that.”… 
2276…… Let’s try to sort out this information and think through before
2277judging them. 
2278
2279First of all, the Dhampir females have no obligation to obey the Seirens, 
2280so they can leave.
2281 
2282It’s just that they would continue to have a child’s appearance.
2283 
2284But as long as they have the body fluids of other races, they can survive.
2285 
2286Under such conditions, the appropriate body fluid ranked behind blood
2287is [that]? 
2288
2289And she said that ––– some people also became like that……? 
2290
2291––– Wait, just wait a moment. 
2292
2293––––––………… then that’s a –––––– legitimate loli
2294[7]
2295––––––
2296 
2297“B-But, we have solved this issue once in the past……”
2298 
2299“Eh, aha, ihh? What did you say?”
2300 
2301Sora had just become completely biased. 
2302
2303Everything Plum said seemed to somewhat confusing so she pulled back. 
2304 
2305“What we said after speaking about the [Ten Oaths]… The Dhampirs have
2306been successful in establishing a symbiotic relationship.” 
2307
2308Jibril nodded, and continued speaking. 
2309
2310“The essence that the Seirens require from males ––– the [soul essence] 
2311must be won and depleted before reproduction ––– however, when [a
2312single generation comes from a single person], and the rest are still living,
2313the amount
2314of soul essence required for breeding that is to be extracted will not cause 
2315the death of the ingested individual, so…”
2316 
2317“The Dhampirs are only with absolute compliance to [her] for [assistance
2318with reproduction]. ––– With her identity as the [queen], every generation
2319of Seirens come from the sole representative. They take the approach to
2320[only have the Queen reproduce].” 
2321
2322“––– Ohh!” 
2323
2324“…… a clever trick……” 
2325
2326Sora clapped his hands to express his admiration, and Shiro clapped 
2327similarly as if she was presenting an offering to the Gods.
2328 
2329“The Dhampirs are pretty much just [assisting the Seirens with
2330reproduction], and it isn’t in violation of the Oaths. On the other hand, they
2331can also deny the Seirens if they mean to extract energy from them until
2332they die. The Dhampirs also have blood they can suck… Wow, is this not a
2333perfect situation to be in?” 
2334
2335So it was like this… although major mistakes were made, this gorgeous 
2336drama had a nice plot twist.
2337 
2338They managed to make it such that neither will perish while
2339establishing a system that ensures the continuity of both races. 
2340
2341In other words, they had successfully achieved the [interracial 
2342coexistence] that Sora and his companions were trying to achieve, and did
2343so earlier than them. 
2344 
2345“… This is sure enough of a great feat. The Dhampirs aren’t ranked twelfth
2346for nothing.” 
2347
2348“Unfortunately, Master, that system had collapsed because of the queen of 
2349that generation.”
2350 
2351––– Just how many plot twists are there in this story?
2352 
2353“…… Then what good did the queen of that generation do?”
2354 
2355Sora asked with cold eyes, but Jibril remained smiling, though this time
2356she had her fingers on both hands stretched open. 
2357
2358‘––– Nothing-at-all~ ♥’ was Jibril’s reply. 
2359
2360Plum, who originally wore an expression of misfortune, now looked as if 
2361her soul was about to come out of her, and she laughed bitterly for a while.
2362 
2363“She left me with the message, ‘Let me sleep until my prince comes. I will
2364not wake up till then.’ …… And then she was out cold.” 
2365
2366––––––––– Ah? 
2367
2368Jibril was grinning madly. What made her smile that much? 
2369
2370“In other words, the Dhampirs can undergo reproduction with the Seiren’s 
2371[current queen] as long as they do not die… But when her mother was still
2372the queen, she was affected by some fairytale and pledged to the Ten Oaths
2373then left that sentence and entered an eternal sleep.” 
2374
2375…… Hey, hey, are you kidding me? 
2376
2377“Until the prince that makes her fall in love appears –– in other words, only 
2378if someone [pledges by the Oaths] through the [game] that she had set
2379would she ever wake up. Also, this [Cold Sleep] that she is in is similar to
2380the [Bad Blood] ability of the Werebeasts. It is an ability of the Seirens to
2381continue sleeping for a thousand years or more. But!” 
2382
2383Jibril said this while sitting with good posture, then started fanning herself. 
2384“Okay, my audience. The world’s stupidest [truth] is finally coming to an
2385end. ♪” 
2386
2387…… Did she take herself for a storyteller? 
2388Jibril happily continued on with her unique manner of speech.
2389 
2390“Ah, well then!! The queen did set a certain [game] –– But!”
2391 
2392“In the end, how would one make her fall in love with him while she
2393was sleeping!!” 
2394
2395–––…… Everyone had nothing to say. 
2396
2397Plum just watched from afar with a weak smile. 
2398
2399Sora looked like he was enduring a headache, and Shiro was already 
2400yawning, while Izuna was sleeping soundly.
2401 
2402Jibril, who was the only one in high spirits, continued her speech.
2403 
2404“The original excuse that the Dhampir males used to reject reproduction
2405was that they would only help by undergoing reproduction when the other
2406party, [the queen], was on the verge of death ––– But, here comes the
2407question!
2408What would happen if the queen sleeps and never wakes up?” 
2409
2410She then opened the fan…… and acted as if she had become limp. 
2411
2412“The current queen has entered [cold sleep] for eight hundred years now, 
2413and the former queen has already passed on. They waited for the current
2414queen to see if she could wake up naturally after a few hundred years……
2415the result was ––– the Dhampir males gradually got eaten –––” 
2416
2417Following which, Jibril bowed deeply. 
2418“This infamous situation reverberated throughout the seven continents as
2419the stupidest history to have ever existed in the world. What do you think
2420about this, my audience? ––– the next performer seems to be ready to
2421perform now. Let me take a bow, and adieu.” 
2422
2423“…… I’m not particularly ready, but whatever…… I get where this is going.”
2424 
2425It was no wonder why everyone thought those races had perished long ago.
2426 
2427––– However, there was still a single doubt.
2428 
2429“After the last Dhampir male had been eaten, wouldn’t that result in
2430the Seirens’ extinction?” 
2431“…… If the Seirens even had a brain to understand this situation…… I
2432wouldn’t have to go through all this trouble……” 
2433
2434“……Eh? Don’t tell me ––– they didn’t do this intentionally……?” 
2435
2436Seeing Plum’s voided eyes stare blankly at him, Sora could not help but feel 
2437a little scared.
2438 
2439So that’s how it turned out like this?
2440 
2441“––– Truth be told, there is only one male remaining…… and he is still too
2442young……” 
2443
2444…… Which means there’s only five seconds to their extinction. Sora 
2445understood that, but……
2446 
2447“How are we supposed to help in such a situation? From what I just heard,
2448all the cards are already down on the table.” 
2449
2450“Ah, the story told by the Flugels actually has a follow-up!” 
2451Since they were finally getting to the topic, Plum’s expression
2452suddenly brightened up. 
2453
2454“Although the queen is currently in the state of [cold sleep], she still retains 
2455her consciousness! So if we were to gather all the fragments of her
2456conscience 
2457
2458––– and intervene with a spell in her [dreams] so that she can meet her 
2459love within her dreams ––– such a [Dating Sim] would thus be possible!”
2460 
2461…… Oh ––– so now it’s a [dating sim], eh…… Sora could not help but laugh.
2462 
2463“Jibril, does interfering with dreams violate the [Ten Oaths]?”
2464 
2465“Yes, if no harm is intended and no danger will be caused directly ––– and
2466more so in this case, the queen is waiting for her beloved prince. The fact
2467is that this counts as her consent to the situation?” 
2468
2469Plum nodded and proceeded to renew her request. 
2470
2471“––– Please let the [queen] fall in love with you! In order to do this, I’ve 
2472prepared a countermeasure!”
2473 
2474Sora and Shiro looked to each other’s’ faces ––– they already had their
2475answer. 
2476
2477Sora and Shiro had the goal of [conquering the sixteen races] ––– so 
2478helping out was the only option from the beginning.
2479 
2480But Sora expressed that even so, there were still things that must be
2481confirmed. 
2482
2483“When we win that game, what will be our reward?” 
2484
2485Plum removed her cheat sheet once again. 
2486“Uh…… [Providing 3% of the underwater resources of Oceando, and
2487establishing permanent friendly relations].” 
2488
2489Plum was sighing while reciting that sentence. 
2490
2491“…… it took me a week to make the Seirens understand the reality of the 
2492situation, make them accept and obtain this condition…… sigh……”
2493 
2494As it turned out, this condition was not too bad.
2495 
2496But Sora’s stern expression showed he was very concerned about one thing.
2497 
2498“…… And, and also…… that……”
2499 
2500Plum coyly played with her fingers ––– and then aimed with her eyes.
2501 
2502Looking towards her great volume of luggage, she bowed her head while
2503her face was fully flushed red. 
2504
2505“I, I can be at your disposition…… so, so I brought all my household items 
2506(luggage) along with me. –––”
2507 
2508“Quit stuttering. Everyone! We’re gonna step in earlier and save the people
2509on the brink of extinction!!” 
2510
2511–– Sora completed his preparations and looked like he was ready to run out 
2512the door.
2513 
2514With loving eyes, he spoke to Plum.
2515 
2516“Please rest your worries, Miss. There is no [Dating Sim] game I have not
2517mastered.” 
2518
2519So hurry and tell me the details. 
2520Then we’ll leave as soon as possible for me to obtain my legitimate lolis
2521 
2522––– !
2523 
2524Looking at how intense Sora’s gaze was, Plum exposed an expression of joy.
2525 
2526“Y-Yes! Uh, because of the [dream interference], you can freely set the
2527location, and basically… the aim of the game is to make the queen fall for
2528you and confess to you!” 
2529
2530What flashed through Sora’s mind was ––– [Tokimeki Memorial].
2531[8]
2532
2533 
2534For a G-rated dating sim, Sora confirmed… that there would be no
2535problems. 
2536
2537‘There are no characters that I cannot conquer’ was what Sora affirmed in 
2538his heart, but–––
2539 
2540“That’s for a dating sim where there are conditions set to fulfil and all
2541dialogues and actions are immediate!” 
2542
2543………… 
2544
2545Sora and Shiro exchanged glances, and smiled while nodding at each other 
2546
2547––– then, they decided that their original verdict should be…… 
2548
2549…… Overthrown. 
2550
2551“No need to discuss any further, I refuse. Please return.” 
2552
2553“…… byebye…… gambatte…… don’t go extinct.” 
2554
2555The two of them laughed while saying those words. 
2556
2557
2558Part 5
2559“… But why? The conditions aren’t bad, are they?” 
2560
2561Miko, who had been quietly listening to the situation, briefly expressed 
2562her feelings.
2563 
2564“Well, I had long wanted the undersea resources of the Sirens, so what’s the
2565problem? You should go save them and establish friendly relations ––– 
2566
2567wouldn’t that be a pretty good condition for the Elchea Federation (of 
2568yours)?”
2569 
2570Indeed, she was Miko ––– a faint smile surfaced on her face, and she
2571understood everything clearly. 
2572
2573What Plum had said about [only being able to beg Sora and his companions] 
2574had come to be spread around.
2575 
2576The Dhampirs and Sirens ––– were left with nothing to gamble.
2577 
2578In general, the friendly relations alone or that degree of resources did
2579not constitute enough of a reason to help them. 
2580
2581If one wanted their territories or resources, they’d get it as long as they 
2582ignored them and let them perish.
2583 
2584As being subdued did not add any harm on their side or affect the race’s
2585survival, there was nothing to be earned to begin with. 
2586
2587But ––– 
2588
2589With the goal of uniting the [exceed] ––– Sora and Shiro were the 
2590exceptions.
2591It would be bothersome even if a single race were to perish. 
2592
2593The Eastern Union wants their resources, and it can also be used to lessen 
2594the gap between the national strength of the two nations.
2595 
2596Also… if they were successful, the Elchea Federation will have two races
2597added in. 
2598
2599Impeccably, it was indeed good terms. 
2600
2601––– Sora shook his head in anguish and stared at Plum. 
2602
2603“…… But this is impossible, Miko-sama…… didn’t you hear earlier? The 
2604[game] that Plum was speaking about.”
2605 
2606“Mhmm, [a romance game], right? What’s the issue?”
2607 
2608The perplexed look on Miko’s face remained, and she sounded surprised
2609when she asked that question. But Sora clutched his head in irritation,
2610and revised what he had said. 
2611
2612“––– No, it is a [romance game where the likability factors are uncertain 
2613with real-time dialogue and actions].”
2614 
2615“……What’s the difference?”
2616 
2617“Very much of it! That’s not a dating sim! That’s an [actual romance game]!”
2618 
2619Sora exaggeratedly waved his hand and shouted.
2620 
2621“No, a real romance game…… Is that even a game!? And then again… what is
2622love!?” 
2623
2624It was a really philosophical question. 
2625…However, since it was proposed as a game, Sora naturally did some
2626incomparably serious investigation on it. 
2627
2628He said, “If it was like usual romance games, things would be easier. To put 
2629it simply, all you need to do is reach the conditions and increase your
2630[likeability]. But what about this situation? This guy actually just casually
2631said that this is where the likeability factors are not certain, and the
2632dialogue and actions are unrestricted, and it’s even going to happen in real
2633time! I’ll ask again. Is that even a [game]!?” 
2634
2635……Ancient Greece. 
2636
2637The philosophers and debaters of that time would probably have asked 
2638themselves questions similar to this.
2639 
2640Sora gave off an aura similar to them. With fist still dramatically raised,
2641he began an unceasing torrent of loud declarations. 
2642
2643“What is the reality of [love]!? Can games with such an ambiguous concept 
2644be called a game? With no meaningfully stipulated cards, combos, or
2645playing style, can a poker like this even be called a game!?” 
2646
2647… To add on, what is love (恋爱)? 
2648
2649Love – is longing (恋) and affection (爱). 
2650 
2651…… it’s two words.
2652 
2653First, the forms of these words are different.
2654 
2655Since they’re of different forms, the pronunciations are also different.
2656 
2657With different pronunciations, the meaning is definitely dissimilar.
2658 
2659Longing and affection… At the end of the day, what exactly are they?
2660The sages of the past had said before to love thy neighbor. But he does not 
2661tell you to go sleep with your neighbor’s wife.
2662 
2663……Sora spoke with sincere eyes.
2664 
2665In contrast, Miko’s eyes were icy cold when she replied.
2666 
2667“…Isn’t that just nice for you? You can use your silver tongue to deceive her
2668into falling in love with you, yeah? Isn’t constructing frauds something
2669you’re a master at?” 
2670
2671However, when Sora and Shiro heard what she said, they looked in pain as 
2672they shook their heads in reply.
2673 
2674“……Can’t do it……”
2675 
2676“Yeah, seems like there’s still something I must state, Miko-sama.”
2677 
2678The sharpness of their gaze increased intensely.
2679 
2680“… No matter what the game, Kuuhaku is undefeatable. There are only [two]
2681games…… we have never broken through, no, we have never understood
2682the rules of, and thus never played it well.” 
2683
2684And those are… 
2685
2686“–––[reality life simulation games] and [reality love simulation games]…!” 
2687
2688In the world of the past, what was at the peak of over two hundred and 
2689eighty games was a blank. This made the siblings become an urban legend
2690only passed on by word of mouth. They were the flawless two-man team ––
2691– 
2692Imanity’s strongest gamers 『  』.
2693 
2694––– But please do not forget that…… 
2695In reality, they are just two virgin otakus without friends and with
2696communication disorders…!! 
2697
2698Upon saying this, Sora and Shiro had an immaculate gaze… and their 
2699upright figures exuded an immense amount of pride.
2700 
2701Turning their beliefs into a reality, they changed to grandeur existences.
2702 
2703Also, the aura they were emitting…… made the particles in the air tremble.
2704
2705  
2706
2707  
2708“Y-You certainly are my masters ––– so shocking and grandeur!”
2709 
2710“I don’t really get it, but, you two are really cool, des.”
2711 
2712Jibril and Izuna swallowed a gulp of saliva in surprise.
2713 
2714“Being proud of being amateurs at something made you guys into this
2715state, eh…… It feels rather awe-inspiring.” 
2716
2717“…… For me, having such a state of mind is greatly perplexing……” 
2718
2719Miko and Plum gave their calm opinions. 
2720
2721“Thusly, we wish to discuss the conditions with Miko-sama, and keep our 
2722stance of giving no reply to the request for now.”
2723 
2724“…… Oh, is that so……”
2725 
2726“So Miko-sama, please tell us what love is?”
2727 
2728“…… tell us…… Miko-sama……”
2729 
2730They asked with serious faces, but Miko only sighed.
2731 
2732She returned to her seat and played with her tails as if she was
2733grooming herself. 
2734
2735“…Well, what is love?” Miko replied coldly. 
2736
2737“From when I could first think sensibly, I had only ever considered the 
2738Werebeasts ––– that is to say, the Eastern Union’s matters. I’ve been
2739struggling with that till now…… So to say what love is? Once upon a time, I
2740had even forgotten to think about such a thing……” 
2741
2742With withdrawn eyes, Miko murmured as if she was recalling her distant 
2743past.
2744… And why is that? 
2745
2746Sora and Shiro were tremendously familiar with what she was going 
2747through.
2748 
2749“Is that so……”
2750 
2751“……then we’re left with no options……”
2752 
2753After saying that, the two sighed simultaneously and then turned to face
2754Plum. 
2755
2756“Sorry, Plum. All we can do now is ask you to give up. Hope you don’t go 
2757extinct!”
2758 
2759“…… persevere and survive!”
2760 
2761Being so easily discarded for the third time, she began crying with
2762distressed shouts. 
2763
2764“Please just listen to what I have to say? I had said I had prepared a 
2765[countermeasure]!”
2766 
2767Plum shouted with tears in her eyes while pointing to her cheat sheet.
2768 
2769“T-The Dhampirs didn’t just get eaten away without doing anything…… We
2770have been analyzing the queen for many years… and at last we came up
2771with an absolute strategy for this game!” 
2772
2773However, Sora and Shiro looked to have no interest in it. 
2774
2775They were following Miko while trying to find the bifurcation of their 
2776own hair. It looked like they had no intention of replying.
2777 
2778“…… there’s a method to win on your own…… so gambatte……”
2779 
2780Plum groaned and went ‘Waaaa～～’, then shouted at the top of her lungs.
2781“～～～～ rather than just speaking about it, why don’t you look at my
2782evidence! Sora-sama!” 
2783
2784Then, she extended her hand and pointed at Sora while shouting. 
2785
2786“Please name anyone who can never fall in love with you!” 
2787
2788“Anyone.” 
2789
2790“……Eh?” 
2791
2792Sora played with his nails. His reply was calm and immediate. When 
2793Plum heard it, she froze in that moment.
2794 
2795In contrast, Sora was gazing in the distance ––– like a monk giving a
2796sermon, he looked calm and at peace. 
2797 
2798“If not for the use of the [pledges], no one would fall in love with me even
2799if the world were to end.” 
2800
2801As if he had just set forth the truth of impermanence… he continued 
2802preaching his situation like he was an enlightened one.
2803
2804“…Th-That’s… I really sympathize with you.” 
2805
2806The grandeur-turned-Buddha-like Sora had indirectly forced Plum into 
2807saying that.
2808 
2809Then, she tried to put forward alternative solutions…
2810 
2811“Th-Then, can we use that on Sora-sama……?”
2812 
2813“Hngh?”
2814 
2815“Use a magic to make the queen –– [forcibly fall in love]!”
2816––– Sora unconsciously let out an ‘Oh.’ 
2817
2818Of course. Since the condition for her to awaken was for her to fall in love, 
2819if there was that kind of magic, it does count as a victory.
2820 
2821If that’s the case, the situation is different…
2822 
2823On the other hand, Jibril began to harbor doubts and suspicions in her
2824eyes after hearing that statement. 
2825
2826“…What does it mean to forcibly fall in love? Because of the [Ten Oaths], 
2827that should not be possible…”
2828 
2829But Plum looked like she had long waited for that question to be asked.
2830 
2831“Yup, it should not be possible under normal circumstances! However, the
2832queen intentionally fell asleep hoping for someone [who can make her fall
2833in love]… in other words, it is her [consent]. Thus, we can use this to
2834interfere with her feelings!” 
2835
2836Her reasoning followed the same reasoning with interfering in the 
2837dream… Plum had both hands on her hips when she spoke.
2838 
2839Seeing Plum stand tall, it added a sense of confidence to her face that
2840was usually oozing with misfortune. Sora judged that… she actually
2841looked confident. 
2842
2843Thus, he winked at Jibril and nodded his head. 
2844
2845“Well, if even I, who does not understand the feelings of love, can be 
2846effective in this, I guess there is indeed a way to emerge victorious.”
2847 
2848Sora spoke while he walked forward.
2849 
2850“Then why don’t you try it out on me, and let Shiro be the judge of its
2851effectiveness…” 
2852
2853But… 
2854
2855“…… can’t……” 
2856
2857Seeing Sora walk forward, Shiro pulled his shirt to stop him. 
2858
2859“Eh? What is it? Shiro.” 
2860
2861“…… can’t.” 
2862
2863“…………” 
2864
2865Shiro’s gaze wavered for a split second… and really only a very short split 
2866second.
2867 
2868And Sora could not detect the reason why.
2869 
2870Thus… Shiro’s mind was currently running at full speed to think of a
2871reason…… to think of an [excuse]. 
2872
2873And then, when Shiro finally found an excuse, she spoke it choppily. 
2874
2875“…… Nii…… if I fall in love…… I don’t know…… what I’d do……” 
2876
2877“Sh-Shiro… Are you doubting your brother’s iron will!?” 
2878
2879Sora asserted his grief, as he took sufficient pride in his ability to maintain 
2880self-control.
2881 
2882But ––– for Miko, who had the Werebeasts’ ability to exceed standard
2883practices, and even look into the changes in another’s heart…… 
2884
2885Unlike Sora, she seemed to better understand the changes in Shiro’s 
2886emotions. Miko began to giggle.
2887“––– Alright, why don’t you try it on me?” 
2888
2889“Miko-sama?” 
2890
2891Miko’s gaze seemed as if she had just seen something amusing. She 
2892continued speaking.
2893 
2894“I, too, do not understand the feelings of love, so this should not be a
2895problem, right?” 
2896
2897But Shiro was still on high alert, so she asked Plum, “…… can it …… be 
2898undone?”
2899 
2900“Eh? It-It can! No problems at all!”
2901 
2902“Hahaha, feel at ease. The type I like is different from that.”
2903 
2904Shiro and Miko seemed to mutually understand the meaning behind
2905their words, and Sora was the only one who could not keep up with what
2906their conversation. 
2907
2908“…… Do you guys know what those two are talking about?” 
2909
2910“My deepest apologies, Master, I do not.” 
2911
2912“……? Sorry, I wasn’t listening then, des.” 
2913
2914Jibril did not get the reasons behind it. 
2915
2916And it was naturally impossible for Izuna, who was already yawning, to 
2917know what was going on.
2918 
2919Ignoring the three of them, Miko stood up… and took a step.
2920 
2921Then she silently and immediately appeared in front of Plum.
2922“Come on, weren’t you going to try it out on me?” 
2923
2924“Y-Yes. Then, Sora-sama, and everyone…” 
2925 
2926Plum had instantly flinched in reaction to Miko’s actions, but she
2927immediately pulled herself together, and spread her wings while she
2928spoke. 
2929
2930“When lacking the supply of blood, this magic cannot be used too many 
2931times, so please pay attention!!”
2932 
2933Complex patterns emerged in Plum’s eyes, and concurrently, a breeze
2934blew within the room. 
2935
2936Plum’s wings looked like they were woven from the night. The light 
2937circles that appeared had completely different geometrical patterns than
2938Jibril’s... 
2939
2940With irregular vibrations and uncountable red lines scuttling, the room 
2941was dyed red.
2942 
2943The irregular streaks of red looked like veins. They gradually corroded
2944until they reached Plum’s right hand. 
2945
2946That hand… began to move again, slowly and complexly. 
2947
2948Feeling the elemental particles… the compilation of techniques turned 
2949into a smell of magic. The ears of Izuna and Miko had subtle reactions.
2950
2951Nonetheless, the magic was completely undetectable by Imanity… so Sora 
2952and Shiro did not feel a thing.
2953 
2954The only one who could correctly identify the magic, and even see through
2955the meaning of the compilation of techniques was Jibril, but… 
2956
2957“…What…… it can’t be, can it?” 
2958
2959From her tone, it seemed that she was surprised. 
2960After a few seconds… Plum slowly brought her palm to Miko.
2961 
2962…In a flash.
2963 
2964It sounded as if things were exploding, and the space surrounding Miko
2965gave of a red glow, as if a whirlpool was scattering in all directions. 
2966
2967–––––––––––– 
2968 
2969………… Um?
2970 
2971“…… What? Was the magic was carried out well?”
2972 
2973Miko did not look to feel any changes to herself.
2974 
2975But Plum smiled in fatigue and said, “Right! After this would be… Sorasama,
2976please…!”
2977
2978
2979“Rub Miko-sama’s chest～～!” 
2980
2981“……Ah?” 
2982
2983Sora and Miko exclaimed at the same time. 
2984
2985“After this [command] ––– the spell will be…… complete!” 
2986
2987Plum did not seem to notice the implications, and was still speaking 
2988while filled with confidence. In a flash, Sora and Shiro exchanged
2989glances. 
2990
2991Seeing Shiro nod in agreement, Sora… 
2992
2993“Ah～Then Miko-sama, can I?” 
2994
2995“…… Well, I agreed to try it out….. But I’m very unhappy that none of this 
2996was stated in advance.”
2997Miko looked reluctant, and she sighed while swaying her chest away. 
2998
2999“…… If it doesn’t feel good…… I would lose face……” 
3000
3001Sora said that, then with fear and trepidation, he covered Miko’s breast with 
3002a hand.
3003 
3004Then, looking determined… he applied some pressure.
3005 
3006… Sora almost let out a gasp of admiration towards the elasticity of it
3007bouncing forward then sinking back. 
3008
3009While Sora felt touched by the feeling of something different than Steph’s…
3010 
3011“Oooo…?”
3012 
3013Miko, who was originally frowning with displeasure…… 
3014…felt as if something in her body had been unleashed. Her expression…
3015changed. 
3016
3017Following which, she slowly shifted her gazed towards Sora… 
3018
3019Intoxicated… 
3020
3021She said, “Wh-What is this? This feeling that makes all the hair on my body 
3022stand on edge…… This sickening barf-worthy smile, from being in a bad
3023mood then now with a fire burning inside… Oh-Oh right, is this ––– is this
3024what [love] is!?” 
3025
3026“It can’t be～～! That really hurts my feelings!”
3027 
3028… Miko was looking into the disgusting thing’s eyes when she spoke, and
3029Sora immediately shouted back in response.
3030Still, Miko continued speaking as though she had not heard Sora’s yells. 
3031
3032“Th-This is probably love. It’s obviously impossible, but I can assert that I’ve 
3033[fallen] for Sora, and so…… this nauseating feeling is called love…… what a
3034wonderful world we’re in.” 
3035
3036“…I say, Plum, haven’t you failed?” 
3037
3038No matter how you’d look at it, it’s a mistake. Sora’s mouth twitched 
3039uncontrollably.
3040 
3041But Plum still stood tall and replied confidently.
3042 
3043“Hahaha, please listen to my explanation…… This is the main point.”
3044 
3045––– As if speaking of the Dhampirs’ only technology, her usually
3046misfortunate face was presently gleaming with shining eyes. 
3047
3048“[Love Magic (plug-in)] ––– although there were rumors of it in past and 
3049present, no one has ever implemented it…”
3050 
3051“…… Is that so? Jibril.”
3052 
3053Love potions and love magic… were frequently used in the plot of fantasy
3054stories. 
3055 
3056“…Yeah, although I’m reluctant to admit it, we have no leads on the
3057principles of love magic.” 
3058
3059Jibril had difficulty concealing her amazed face when she spoke. 
3060
3061Despite her reluctance to look, she was still nodding in recognition of 
3062Plum’s great undertaking.
3063 
3064“To interfere with the emotions of love is something that practitioners of
3065magic
3066were never able to define the ambiguous key constituents to. From my 
3067knowledge, this magic is something even the Elves have yet to achieve……”
3068 
3069Though they were prominent in their illusionary magic spells, the
3070Dhampirs were still only ranked in twelfth place. 
3071
3072The seventh ranked can practically be addressed as a magic spell itself. 
3073They were a synonym to complex technique compilations (magic).
3074 
3075It was something the Elves could not accomplish, but Plum could.
3076Despite this, she still nodded her head in agreement. 
3077
3078“Yes, the difficulty lies in defining [feelings of love] because it’s never fixed 
3079
3080––– as everyone has a different definition.” 
3081
3082Plum was happily flapping her tiny wings while she spoke. 
3083
3084She had a triumphant look and straightened her chest before she went on 
3085with her speech.
3086 
3087“When [the uncertainty factor is impossible to be set], no matter what spell
3088is cast, it’d be meaningless. That is why what the world terms as the spell
3089of [Love Magic (plug-in)] is at most just a cause of [estrus magic]… but!” 
3090
3091“Ah, wait a second, Plum, I’m more interested in [estrus magic]…” 
3092
3093But Plum ignored Sora’s concern and was standing so proud and tall that 
3094it looked as if he was about to bend backwards. “We Dhampirs have
3095finally succeeded in this!” 
3096
3097“…………” 
3098
3099Then she began her story… 
3100About something the Elves would never be able to reach……
3101…And the truth ––– about the magic that would even make a Flugel marvel 
3102at.
3103 
3104“Sure it’s uncertain, but we can just set it as something. Since everyone has
3105a different feeling when in [love], then let that definition be arbitrarily be
3106decided by us!” 
3107
3108––– What kind of preposterous reasoning is that? 
3109
3110Having played games which often have the appearance of love magic, Sora 
3111had never felt such a strong sense of violation till today.
3112 
3113Sora glanced towards Miko… Miko’s gaze looked as if she was staring at
3114garbage when directed at Sora. 
3115
3116“…… No, but this should not be a state where she’s in love with me, right?”
3117 
3118Sora rolled his eyes and murmured.
3119 
3120“No, if Miko-sama identifies such a feeling as [love], then that is [love]! After
3121all… love is just a misconception!!” 
3122
3123Plum was filled with confidence. 
3124
3125Disguises and illusions… this was what was so categorically asserted by 
3126the race who is the most adept at the manipulation of one’s spirit and
3127cognition. 
3128
3129“…… Shiro, I now feel a totally unprecedented disappointment towards the 
3130feeling of love.”
3131 
3132“…… Love…… what is it……”
3133 
3134In spite of the philosophical contemplation of the problem at hand by
3135the siblings, Plum grew even more excited as she spoke.
3136“Alright, Sora-sama, Miko-sama must have identified [disgust] as the feeling 
3137of love! Now, if you strike while the iron is hot, and tell her the most 
3138disgusting of disgusting lines you have!” 
3139
3140Being called disgusting time and again, although Sora had many things to 
3141say… he temporarily swallowed his words. 
3142“Ah…… [I really want to lick Miko]……”
3143 
3144Upon hearing the random line that Sora had just thought of, Miko’s reaction
3145was… that she could not retreat. 
3146
3147“Ahhh…… you can’t, Sora. You can’t! If you talk like that… wouldn’t that 
3148make me fall for you even harder ♥”
3149 
3150“Hey! Plum!! Aren’t her words totally inconsistent with her attitude!? She
3151looks to be incredibly disgusted at me!! No, I should say instead that those
3152eyes are obviously telling me to [go to hell]!!” 
3153
3154Sora was gleaming with tears. He looked like he wanted to grab Plum and 
3155scream into her chest.
3156 
3157However, Plum still shook her head with immense pride in herself while
3158she spoke. 
3159
3160“That is Miko-sama’s form of love. It turned into such a thing, isn’t that 
3161terrific?”
3162 
3163“It’s too great, so hurry up and cancel it! My spirit is on the verge of
3164collapsing!” 
3165
3166… This can’t be right. Love Magic (plug-in) should not be as such…… 
3167
3168––––––––––………… 
3169“Ahhh, such an interesting experience…… Living for such a long time has its
3170perks.” 
3171
3172With the spell broken, Miko was delighted and laughing out loud. 
3173
3174Sora moved to the side –– in an effort to prevent others from seeing how 
3175hurt his heart was –– then he spoke to Plum.
3176 
3177“So as it turns out, now I know your [countermeasure for victory]. Yet, why
3178do you not just use this by yourself?” 
3179
3180With such a means to make another fall in love unconditionally, the 
3181Dhampirs should be able to manage this by themselves, right?
3182 
3183But, Plum dropped her shoulders and replied dejectedly.
3184 
3185“Because the Dhampirs’ last male is still a child…… and the queen requested
3186for a [prince]…” 
3187
3188Plum drew a circle with her hand, and something seemingly magical 
3189emerged. She continued her speech.
3190 
3191“This magic is an illusion that feigns one’s cognition…… it works best when
3192used with a male with reproductive capabilities.” 
3193
3194––– At that moment, Shiro was still wordlessly pulling at the hem of Sora’s 
3195shirt. She passed her phone to him.
3196 
3197Sora glanced at the words typed onto the phone…
3198 
3199“…… Un…… [That doesn’t sound like Nii has to do it]. Well said.”
3200 
3201––– Hearing Sora’s words, Miko and Izuna’s ears moved.
3202 
3203“Plum, let me ask you, can the queen’s game be challenged by multiple
3204people at once?” 
3205
3206“Eh? Ah, it can. It should be possible…… because the interference spell with 
3207the queen’s dream will become large scale, so it may result in problems……
3208but, conversely, why can’t Sora-sama just challenge the game by himself?” 
3209
3210“Sorry to say this, but since [plug-in] is our final measure, and we do intend 
3211to issue the challenge, a frontal attack should be launched. We must first
3212raise our chances of victory.” 
3213
3214“The swindler still has the cheek to say that……” 
3215
3216“Hey hey, why is Miko-sama saying something I cannot make heads or tails 
3217of… In [plug-in], frauds are specified to win. It’d be different if the cheat to
3218pull was to [ensure that we have a trick if we are caught cheating to
3219prevent a loss], right?” 
3220
3221––– Miko and the rest did not understand, but in Sora and Shiro’s original 
3222world…
3223 
3224Though they use psychological warfare and pull cheats, they kept a
3225consistent principle to never use [plug-ins]. 
3226 
3227“Games in particular require one to exhaust all means of winning in the
3228range of the rules. When the fundamental rules are ignored, it cannot be
3229called a game. It’s fine to make use of a game’s bug, or an OP
3230[9]
3231 character, as
3232long as it is [officially recognized] that it can be used for the sake of an
3233unscrupulous victory… But using a means that defies the rules is absolutely
3234out of the question.” 
3235
3236After that, Sora nodded and ended his topic. 
3237
3238At that instant, Sora suddenly… shifted his line of sight to Miko, and 
3239nodded again.
3240“––– I say, Miko-sama, can… you swim?” 
3241
3242To this question, Miko shook her head in response. 
3243
3244“… Since you don’t know how to swim, you can just walk about in the 
3245water, somehow?”
3246 
3247“As long as Miko-sama agrees, I will agree to her request ––– to advance to
3248Oceando.” 
3249
3250“…… Un, that makes sense. The remuneration is not bad, and it will be a 
3251[sure-win].”
3252 
3253“R-Really!?”
3254 
3255“…Miko-sama, among the people you know, aren’t there any suitable
3256candidates?” 
3257
3258Upon hearing this question, Miko stopped for a while to think about it. 
3259
3260And then, she stopped her mouth from speaking by covering it with her 
3261hand.
3262 
3263But after thinking of how Sora’s expression would change, Miko concealed
3264her smile while she spoke. 
3265
3266“––– [Hatsuse Ino], that man should have about [t-h-i-r-t-y wives], yo.” 
3267
3268
3269
3270
3271 
3272Part 6
3273Elchea’s King City, the King’s bedroom. 
3274
3275Steph was greedily enjoying a comfortable sleep she had long been 
3276missing. She wandered about in her dream…
3277 
3278“Old man～～ hear me when I say this! I damn you to hell!!”
3279 
3280Suddenly, sounds of explosions shook the city, and further muffled
3281explosions roared through. Steph rolled off the bed. 
3282
3283“Wh-What happened!?” 
3284
3285Steph cried in pain for she had just bumped her head, but once she 
3286realized what she had just heard… the sound she just made was more of a
3287scream. Steph even forgot that she was still in pajamas. She lifted her
3288quilt, and immediately ran towards the direction of the sound ––– which
3289was the direction of the main conference room. She practically flew out
3290the room. 
3291
3292Right on cue, it looked as if the door to the main conference room had 
3293been kicked down. What Steph, who was frantically rushing over, saw
3294was… 
3295
3296The cause of the earlier explosion ––– should be…… no, it definitely was 
3297
3298––– none other than Jibril. 
3299
3300Perhaps it was because of the sound of an explosion… 
3301
3302“H-How did this horror come about……” 
3303
3304Hatsuse Ino, who was substituting for Steph in a game, and his opponent ––
3305–
3306 
3307who was probably one of the feudal lords ––– were there. Their cards were
3308fluttering in the air with a large number of documents. Smoke filled the
3309main
3310conference room, and one of the walls was utterly destroyed. The source 
3311which caused this heaven-and-earth surprise seemed to have noticed Steph.
3312“Iyaa, Dora-chan, hi. Master commanded for his space to be transferred 
3313right now to Elchea, but because there were too many people, I had to open
3314a slightly larger hole in this space… Are you okay?” 
3315
3316… Actually, I might not be okay? 
3317
3318But compared to this… Steph suddenly started tearing up as she stared on. 
3319
3320The smoke was torn through. With great momentum, Sora closed in on 
3321Ino with ground-piercing paces, and began to yell at him.
3322 
3323“Defendant Hatsuse Ino! Not only are you a Riajuu, you’ve even taken more
3324than a single maiden as your wife! I have simply tried this great sin through
3325my brain, and based on my prejudiced decision alone, your verdict is fully
3326and absolutely guilty, and you are henceforth sentenced to death! By the
3327laws of the galaxy, I will now obliterate you into the dust of the universe,
3328gaaaahhhhh!!!” 
3329
3330“…… Ah…… Sora-dono, the mass of what I have to say to you has piled up 
3331all the way to the sky.”
3332 
3333When faced with the king who had just returned after roaming around for
3334half a month… and came back as a mad king… 
3335
3336Ino looked like he was suppressing the fire of his anger, but… 
3337
3338Izuna unexpectedly appeared from behind Sora’s back. Her words made Ino 
3339immediately freeze in his place.
3340 
3341“…… grandpa…… are you a [sex-craving monster], des?”
3342 
3343“EH!? Izuna, where did you learn such words….!”
3344Conversely, as she may not have understood the meaning of the words, 
3345Izuna tilted her head to a side and widened her eyes.
3346 
3347“…… That’s how Sora calls grandpa, des.”
3348 
3349“Oi! You damn monkey!! Not only had you thrown a mountain of work onto
3350others, you even instilled strange vocabulary to my granddaughter!?” 
3351
3352Ino could not help but reveal his true nature, and broke the table with 
3353an angry roar.
3354 
3355But Sora was literally looking up towards the sky, and waved his hand
3356then pointed to Ino’s face. 
3357
3358“Ah! Look, Izuna! This is the face of a great sinner whose immoral 
3359thoughts were just exposed. Ugly, isn’t it?”
3360 
3361Izuna had a look of defeat on her face.
3362 
3363“…… Grandpa, quit making a scene, des.”
3364 
3365“Wha ––––––– No, no, it’s not like that, Izuna! Grandpa is honestly in love
3366with these girls……” 
3367
3368“Ah～Ahh～ Shut up, shut up, you lower bodied slave! Don’t make excuses, 
3369and just get ready to die ––– aarrgh!!”
3370 
3371“…… Nii…… noisy……” Shiro said this while being carried on Sora’s back.
3372 
3373Holding his neck with her arms, the then noisy Sora was subtly forced to
3374shut his mouth. 
3375
3376––– And then, when the smoke began to disperse …… 
3377“Hahaha, it sure is a ruckus every time……”
3378 
3379With a voice like the ringing of bells, her footsteps were heard as she
3380stepped to the floor… A golden fox had appeared. 
3381
3382“Wha–––– Mi-Miko-sama!?” Seeing her figure, Ino instantly lay prostrate to 
3383greet her.
3384 
3385Miko said, “Hatsuse Ino… We are now to [have everyone together] and
3386advance to Oceando.” 
3387
3388With her crisp and pleasant voice, she continued on. 
3389
3390“On the way there, please take your time to elaborate on your romantic 
3391nature. I take it there are no issues?”
3392 
3393“Mi-Miko-sama…… Even Miko-sama is looking at me like that…”
3394 
3395Ignoring that Ino was about to wet the ground with his tears, Miko chose
3396to lower her voice and repeat herself… 
3397
3398“… There are no issues?” 
3399
3400… Such a question. 
3401
3402… Ino raised his head to observe his surroundings. Although he did not 
3403fully understand everything… he could only give this reply.
3404 
3405“…… As you wish, please leave it to me.”
3406 
3407“–––……”
3408 
3409Steph could not keep up with what was happening, and just innocently
3410stood by the front of the door.
3411“Hey, Steph, you look quite well. We haven’t seen each other in two weeks,
3412yeah?” 
3413
3414––– Sora’s tone relaxed when he spoke, maybe because he finally noticed 
3415her there.
3416 
3417Looking at his face… the countless emotions in Steph’s chest were like
3418waves surging forth. 
3419
3420Anger, blame, accountability, interrogation… 
3421
3422But compared to all of those, seeing Sora’s face after such a long time… Her 
3423vision went blur.
3424 
3425The many lines she had originally decided to say when she met Sora
3426had already flown beyond the topmost clouds. 
3427
3428Steph closed both eyes tightly, and deliberately did not wipe away the 
3429tears emerging in her eyes.
3430 
3431She was not thinking about what the feeling the tears were stemming from,
3432but just letting her emotions out before she spoke… 
3433
3434“Oh, Elchea’s policies have already been implemented to such a state, ah… 
3435Was it under Hatsuse Ino’s directive?”
3436 
3437“It was Steph. She left Ino with only the restrictions and recommendations
3438of the job.” 
3439
3440“……Eh?” 
3441 
3442––– Not speaking.
3443 
3444Hearing Miko and Sora converse, she made that sound as she fell into a
3445blank stare.
3446Steph widened her eyes in surprise at Sora’s unexpected answer. Miko, on 
3447the other hand, smiled as she intuitively knew what was going on.
3448 
3449“––– So that’s what happened. After unveiling your slogan that a federation
3450would be constructed, the two [rulers] went to leisurely stay in the
3451Eastern Union, and caused such a situation…… Such a devious man you
3452are.” 
3453
3454Miko stated this boldly, but Sora smiled all the same when replying. 
3455
3456“Professional issues should be handled by professionals… Politics is 
3457something Steph can handle with absolutely no problems.”
3458 
3459“…… Adding on the fact that [you two were not present] is even more of a
3460blow.” 
3461
3462“Yeah, because we were worried that other countries might take the 
3463opportunity to interfere with stately affairs.”
3464 
3465––– Ino and Steph were shocked back from their frozen states when they
3466heard that statement. 
3467
3468However, it was Shiro who continued the speech while she looked over 
3469several documents.
3470 
3471“…… [when Nii and Shiro are absent]…… no matter how you think of
3472it…… [it’s a trap]……” 
3473
3474Then… she continued speaking. 
3475
3476“…… only an idiot……. would jump straight into such a trap.” 
3477
3478“That crowd of idiots was comparing you against the game matches they 
3479usually have with Shiro and I… But Steph had continuously learnt from her
3480defeats, so they didn’t have even a 10,000 to 1 chance of defeating her.
3481That’s why we could feel at ease when we focused our efforts on the
3482Eastern 
3483Union ♪”
3484 
3485Steph and Ino were at a loss for words. They stood stunned and speechless.
3486 
3487But Sora’s expression turned more serious than ever.
3488 
3489“But that’s too many, right, Steph? Why did you accept all those challenges?”
3490 
3491––– Hearing those words made Steph froze in that moment.
3492 
3493In other words…… if that really was true… then why did I accept all of those
3494challenges? 
3495
3496The contents of the game and the choice of whether to accept it were all to 
3497be decided by the party who was challenged.
3498 
3499Why did I force myself to be so busy…
3500 
3501Steph’s eyes were wide open while she questioned herself, but Sora
3502continued with his next sentence…… 
3503
3504“Steph… although I rely greatly on you, you don’t have to push yourself too 
3505hard, and also… how do I put this.”
3506 
3507Sora was scratching his head and slightly embarrassed when he spoke.
3508 
3509“Thank you.”
3510 
3511––– The very line she wanted to hear.
3512 
3513She had worked so desperately to her current state just for him to think
3514that way. 
3515
3516When her mind began to understand the meaning behind her falling tears, 
3517she felt her temperature rise… and her cheeks flushed concurrently…
3518“N-No…… It’s because you guys are such an unfathomable mystery so I’m 
3519just trying to deal with all the work as fast as I can… That’s all there is to it!”
3520 
3521Steph spoke in stammers as Sora was moving closer to her.
3522 
3523The rate of her heartbeat was increasing endlessly.
3524 
3525Sora said, “Then, Steph, I’m sorry to trouble you when you’re already so
3526tired. As Miko-sama said, we have to advance to the capital of the Sirens.” 
3527
3528“Eh? Ah, ok…… th-then what?” 
3529
3530Steph avoided his line of sight. 
3531
3532But Sora was glancing in a different direction. 
3533
3534Over there was a black girl with an appearance of great misfortune on 
3535her face she never seen before.
3536 
3537“The Sirens and the Dhampirs are about to go extinct, so we’re going to save
3538them, or rather I’d say…” 
3539
3540Then, he resumed his usual deemphasized tone when speaking. 
3541
3542“We’re going to get the resources and territories… which are what we are 
3543fatally lacking to construct a federation with the Eastern Union.”
3544 
3545Hearing Sora’s declaration, Steph’s eyes felt slightly hot.
3546 
3547Indeed…
3548 
3549Sure enough… this man was thinking for the sake of all of Elchea…
3550 
3551It was Shiro’s turn to close in on her.
3552 
3553“…… Steph…… Do you know how to sew……?”
3554“––– What?” 
3555
3556“To put it simply, we want to go to the beach. Can you please make a 
3557swimsuit for everyone? We’ll pass the designs to you.”
3558 
3559––– In other words, more work.
3560 
3561With a smile on her face, Steph fainted without speaking a word–––…… 
3562
3563
3564
3565 
3566Chapter 2 - Strategist/The Sun 
3567Part 1
3568- The sea. 
3569
3570When it comes to vacation spots, they could probably be divided into two 
3571main categories, mountain regions and areas close to seas or oceans.
3572 
3573During summer, many people will instinctively flock to these places,
3574like moths gathering at a lamp. 
3575
3576- To be honest, the stubborn grains of sand that refuse to get off the body, 
3577one’s skin being exposed to the sun for long periods of time, such that it
3578brings pain and discomfort to the body, while the sea wind corrodes
3579one’s hair every second; thinking about it, it’s hard to understand why
3580exactly people come to places like these. 
3581
3582But – a hateful place like this, once certain conditions change, it’s an 
3583entirely different matter.
3584 
3585“- Phew… how blissful.”
3586 
3587Under a parasol that looked like a Japanese oil-paper umbrella, Sora lay on
3588a grass-woven bed, with a glass in his hand. 
3589
3590At both sides of Sora, were multiple Werebeasts that appeared to be Miko’s 
3591followers who were fanning him with giant leaves.
3592 
3593Their hanten
3594[10]
3595 that were spread open at the chest area – which apparently
3596was the preferred swimsuit of the Eastern Federation – revealed their
3597breasts, and their skin revealed underneath the cloth that covered only the
3598lower half of the body, in comparison with their ears and tails covered in
3599animal fur, appeared even more flashy and attractive than the sun itself.
3600Sora shook the cup in his hand, and thought – This is Heaven. 
3601
3602“…Sora-san, to think that you can remain unfazed under this sort of heat… 
3603you must be enjoying yourself.”
3604 
3605“Yeah! Isn’t this all because of Jibril’s secret sunblock concocted from light
3606spirits? Moving on –“ 
3607[11]
3608
3609 
3610Ino spoke calmly, while Sora replied with a hint of suspicion in his
3611voice without even turning around: 
3612
3613“Old man, I’m not intentionally looking at you, but you aren't wearing just 
3614a loincloth again, right?”
3615 
3616“Sora-san, what you just said was pretty strange… besides loincloths; do
3617men have any other clothing choices when it comes to water-related
3618activities?” 
3619
3620As Sora had predicted – wearing only a loincloth – a muscular old man 
3621replied while tilting his head.
3622 
3623Sora sighed in frustration, then spoke while pointing at himself:
3624 
3625“Let me tell you something old man, look at me, what do you think?”
3626 
3627“- Sora-san, you have that sort of fetish?”
3628 
3629“Are you senile!? Old man~~!! Shorts and a shirt! This is standard
3630swimwear as well!” 
3631
3632Sora stood up and backed down a few steps, then yelled after hearing the 
3633reply filled with disgust.
3634 
3635Ino shook his head helplessly.
3636“You don’t wish for other people to see your frail body, but that's fine, Sora-
3637san, since it’s plain manners to cover up one’s embarrassing spots.”
3638 
3639“I just don’t want to become a muscular guy like you! Also, don’t call me
3640frail! Since the FPS match I had against Izuna, I realized that stamina is
3641important as well, I may not look like it, but I have been training!” 
3642
3643Sora yelled, choked slightly, then lay down again. 
3644
3645- He was surprised himself as he could only do fifty push-ups and sit-ups 
3646each, but he didn’t need to say that.
3647 
3648“…Let’s change the subject, aren’t they done yet?”
3649 
3650“Girls take a long time to change you know, Sora-san – pardon me, haven’t
3651you heard?” 
3652 
3653“It’s hard talking to Old Man Muscles, can’t you detect my sarcasm!? Can’t
3654you!?” 
3655
3656Sora yelled coldly, then looked behind him. 
3657
3658“Hey, Shiro, you’re not done yet?” 
3659
3660“…Mm, I need… a bit more time…” 
3661
3662Behind Sora – Shiro’s reply drifted from the shade behind a clump of trees. 
3663
3664Something that sounded like clothing scraping about could be heard, 
3665it seemed that she was having trouble wearing her clothes by herself.
3666 
3667“Wouldn’t it be fine if she’d changed with the other girls in the
3668changing room?” 
3669
3670“Yes, that was what I suggested, after which I was chased out by someone… 
3671and that someone was you!”
3672 
3673Sora and Shiro cannot be apart, not even when changing clothes.
3674 
3675That was an unspoken fact, so Sora as usual, naturally, automatically,
3676attempted to enter the female changing room with Shiro – 
3677
3678But then he was chased out, which resulted in the current situation. 
3679
3680“Trying to peek at Miko-sama naked, even if that sort of thing were to be 
3681permitted by God (Tet), I would still refuse!”
3682 
3683“Miko-san already said she doesn’t mind -!”
3684 
3685Sora felt only remorse at retreating from the changing room only due to
3686a menacing glare from a loincloth-wearing muscular old man. 
3687
3688- Now let’s think of a way to cheat Ino, and sneak into the changing room. 
3689Just as Sora began to formulate his master plan –
3690 
3691“…I’m done, des.”
3692 
3693“Oh... it’s Izuna indeed, you look cute no matter what you wear.”
3694 
3695- Hearing the voice of a young girl, Ino suddenly took on the voice of a
3696compassionate grandfather and turned around. 
3697
3698Upon seeing Izuna who was the earliest to finish changing, Ino sighed in 
3699relief.
3700 
3701“I heard the swimsuit was suggested by Sora-san – I initially thought it
3702would be some immoral clothing.” 
3703
3704“You’re too shallow, old man, first! It’s common sense that young girls have 
3705to wear 「School swimsuits」!”
3706Izuna waved her large tail around while stepping lightly on the beach. 
3707
3708That swimsuit was – from Sora’s world… an old-fashioned school swimsuit. 
3709
3710Of course, that was something that didn’t exist in this world. 
3711
3712To elaborate further, even the Eastern Federation didn’t possess a 
3713chemical fiber like polyester.
3714 
3715But – school swimsuits were originally woven with silk before the
3716Second World War. 
3717
3718So this was a perfectly woven product created by Steph, closely following 
3719the detailed instructions listed on Sora’s tablet.
3720 
3721Steph – you’ve really outdone yourself.
3722 
3723“…But it really doesn’t reveal a lot of skin.”
3724 
3725“Let me say this again, you’re too shallow, old man. Without the seasoning
3726of culture, how could this be considered romantic!?” 
3727
3728- Yes, on top of the school swimsuit Izuna was wearing, she also had on a 
3729long-sleeved kimono resembling a hanten not unlike what the
3730Werebeasts around her were wearing. 
3731
3732Kemonomimi, young girls, school swimsuits, not to mention the seasoning 
3733of the Eastern Federation’s culture -!
3734 
3735- This is – - Sora’s - 「Solution」…
3736 
3737Izuna walked in front of Sora, then as though wanting to see how she
3738looked like from behind, twirled around in a circle. 
3739“Is this alright, des?”
3740“It’s perfect… you were almost criminally cute in the first place, but now 
3741you could be classified as a national treasure.”
3742 
3743Looking at Sora who had a smile of a normal,cheerful teenager on his face
3744and was giving a thumbs-up of approval, Ino – 
3745
3746“...I don’t really understand but, I give my sincerest approval of this since 
3747you didn’t let my granddaughter wear any immoral clothing.”
3748 
3749- spoke.
3750 
3751“U, um… I’m done changing.”
3752 
3753“Oh, Steph, you really did a great job –“
3754 
3755Hearing Steph’s embarrassed voice, Sora turned around to thank her – but
3756froze momentarily instead. 
3757
3758Steph’s cheeks were bright red, just like the impression her normal 
3759clothes left on others, the swimsuit she was wearing was a modified twopiece
3760with
3761added
3762ruffles
3763and
3764a
3765belt
3766made
3767from
3768semi-transparent
3769material,
3770
3771and
3772her
3773eyes
3774continually
3775darted
3776from
3777side
3778to
3779side.
3780
3781
3782From what Sora knew, Elchea shouldn’t have possessed that sort of 
3783「Swimsuit」.
3784 
3785Speaking of Elchea’s swimsuits there was only – that.
3786 
3787Like 17th-century Eastern Europe, their swimsuits were full-bodied
3788female lingerie and looked old-fashioned, which was the only swimsuit
3789Elchea possessed. 
3790
3791Because of that, Sora had to plead Steph to make a new swimsuit. 
3792
3793  
3794
3795  
3796From her expression, she had probably selected a swimsuit she liked
3797from Sora and Shiro’s catalogue as well. 
3798
3799But the reason why Sora froze on the spot wasn’t the swimsuit. 
3800
3801The real reason was because he saw 「That」 which was large enough to
3802the point of almost bursting from the swimsuit – and the numbers
3803endlessly flashing in his brain made him freeze. 
3804
3805“- I, impossible! Eighty-nine, fifty-eight, eighty-nine… the power levels are 
3806at five hundred thousand -!?”
3807 
3808“You – how did you know – No! What are you talking about!!”
3809 
3810The power level scanner within his head calculated Steph’s stunningly
3811high 「Bust measurements」, making Sora tremor uncontrollably. 
3812
3813Things like this existed! 
3814
3815Did I miss it since the steam was too dense earlier!? 
3816
3817“…Ugh, ugh… to think that a mere Steph would have such high standards -!” 
3818
3819“Eh, ah! R, really? I, it’s nothing…” 
3820
3821Steph wiggled nervously, appearing rather glad with herself. 
3822
3823Sora was about to say something else to her, but – 
3824
3825“I apologize, Master, because it took a long time to 「Weave」 this into
3826a fashion of your preference.” 
3827
3828“Haha, it’s fine, making men wait is a custom of a good woman as well!” 
3829
3830Hearing the two voices, everyone turned around at once – suddenly, Sora’s
3831power level scanner exploded and flew away. 
3832
3833Sora and Ino didn’t have the time to think, instead following their 
3834instincts, both of them kneeled on the floor in a worshipping fashion, as
3835though it was obligatory for them to do so. 
3836
3837What they saw when they turned around was – two goddesses. 
3838
3839The two goddesses – one of them was Jibril. 
3840 
3841Her hair that was changing colors seemingly endlessly according to the rays
3842of light shooting down from the sky was waving around in the sea-wind and
3843sun, appeared even more beautiful and dazzling. 
3844
3845That structural beauty almost at the point of perfection would make 
3846any sculptor’s heart melt upon first sight.
3847 
3848And that artwork of a body, was wearing the swimsuit Sora had
3849recommended. 
3850
3851Jibril normally wore extremely revealing clothes as well, so Sora had 
3852selected a swimsuit resembling a coverall with the abdominal area woven
3853with silk. 
3854
3855She had used a large female shawl as a sort of belt wrapped around her 
3856waist, and her faintly glowing wings protruded from it.
3857 
3858The halo spinning around on her head, added a sort of holy aura to her.
3859 
3860Her indisputable beauty would unquestionably convince others that she
3861was a goddess descended from the heavens. 
3862
3863The two goddesses – the second one was Miko. 
3864
3865Her golden hair, ears, tail and snow-white skin, under the bright glow of 
3866the sun, was exactly like – a Buddha.
3867With her subtle body curves, if Jibril was considered an extreme beauty
3868– then she would be a supreme one. 
3869
3870Her delicate skin that was usually hidden under a kimono was now 
3871completely coated with a swimsuit resembling another hanten.
3872 
3873But the swimsuit was spread out like a butterfly in the night, revealing her
3874pink and tender shoulders, making her appear unbelievably beautiful. 
3875
3876Her golden hair and twin tails would shake as she stepped along the 
3877beach, along with the flirtatious smile on her face would convince anyone
3878that an immortal, godlike fox demon – a heavenly fox presiding over one
3879actually exists. 
3880 
3881The two men still kneeling on the ground, had tears flowing down
3882their cheeks. 
3883
3884They were praying to an unknown existence for reasons they themselves 
3885did not know.
3886 
3887“…Hatsuse Ino, has finally realized why he lives and exists upon this earth -
3888!” 
3889
3890“Oh, dear god! I don’t know where you are, nor who you are, but you are a 
3891God of exceptional tastes for creating Jibril and Miko upon this earth – ah,
3892please take me in as your disciple…” 
3893
3894- The creation of a religion. 
3895
3896Steph and Izuna witnessed this precious moment, however – 
3897
3898“- Well, it’s true that something like this would happen when compared 
3899to them… but isn’t the way we’re being treated a bit too far off?”
3900 
3901“…? Did they get sand in their eyes, des?”
3902Looking at the two men who were still kneeling in complete reverence, 
3903Izuna tilted her head in confusion.
3904 
3905“Ah, Master, I am not worthy of such praise, please get up!!”
3906 
3907“Mm, rise, how about you lift up your heads, and properly enjoy the
3908privilege of witnessing me in a swimsuit?” 
3909
3910Jibril immediately knelt and began kowtowing upon seeing Sora’s 
3911actions, while Miko laughed aloud instead.
3912 
3913Hearing the words spoken by the two women, Sora and Ino stood up in
3914trepidation. 
3915
3916Again setting their eyes upon the two’s sacred figures, Sora and Ino looked 
3917up to the sky at once.
3918 
3919“…I feel like I’ve enjoyed myself immensely already.”
3920 
3921“…Yes, I feel accomplished as well.”
3922 
3923“..Let’s go back.”
3924 
3925“…It’s rare that we see eye-to-eye, Sora-san.”
3926 
3927- Both of them were becoming philosophical.
3928 
3929The two that were usually like fire and water, at that point, didn’t have
3930any barriers between them, and the gap between races had been bridged. 
3931
3932They were instead both men, looking up at the same sky, carrying the 
3933same thoughts within themselves, sympathetic towards each other.
3934 
3935- Why does everyone have to fight amongst each other?
3936The world is such a beautiful place – 
3937
3938“No, please wait! Why did we come here in the first place?” 
3939
3940Steph yelled at the two men who were still undergoing revelations in 
3941the horizon.
3942 
3943- Eh?
3944 
3945“…Why is that?”
3946 
3947“Please allow me to answer, Master, I believe we were here to pay a visit to
3948the capital of the Seirenes.” 
3949
3950…Ah, right, Sora finally remembered. 
3951
3952- Yes, exactly as Jibril had said, they hadn’t come here to play in the ocean. 
3953
3954It was Plum who had said that the Seirens would send a boat to fetch 
3955them, which was why they came.
3956
3957Because the capital of the Seirens – 「Oceando」 was at the bottom of 
3958the sea.
3959 
3960Jibril had never been there and she couldn’t see it as well, so she couldn’t
3961teleport them there. 
3962
3963So, according to their earlier arrangement, Plum would guide them from 
3964here, but –
3965 
3966“Hmm? What happened to Plum who said she’d guide us earlier?”
3967 
3968“I, I’m here…”
3969 
3970“Whoa!?”
3971A soft voice drifted up from near his feet, making Sora jump in surprise. 
3972
3973He didn’t know when it had appeared, but a pair of eyes looked up at him 
3974from a wooden crate which presence he couldn’t detect until earlier next
3975to his legs. 
3976
3977“…Eh, is this Plum? What are you doing, this is the sea, the sea you know.” 
3978
3979“D, don’t be so inconsiderate… t, this is already my limit!” Plum answered. 
3980Patterns began appearing around her not unlike those when she used
3981magic – and tears appeared in her eyes. 
3982
3983“Master, sunlight is fatal to the Dhampir, even when she’s hiding in the 
3984box, she still needs to avert the rays of the sun –“
3985 
3986Hearing Jibril’s words, Sora recalled the 「Disease」.
3987 
3988Since it was transmitted through blood-sucking, it would mean that
3989the Dhampir themselves wouldn’t be able to see the sun. 
3990
3991“…Oceande only sends their 「Reception Boat」 at night! Why did we have 
3992to come during the day…”
3993 
3994- That’s right.
3995 
3996She had said earlier, the boat would only come after sunset.
3997 
3998Plum complained in frustration, why had they come in the daytime which
3999was like a hellish frying pan to her. 
4000
4001“No, but this is the sea, you want me to skip the swimsuits in a situation 
4002like this, are you for real?”
4003 
4004- If not for Jibril’s secret 「Sunblock」, Sora wouldn’t have come in the
4005day either. 
4006“Oh yeah, Jibril, is the sunblock useless on Plum?”
4007 
4008“Sadly, Master, for the Dhampir, 「Being hit by sunlight」 is the cause
4009of death.” 
4010
4011Jibril stated that there was no possible solution, but was corrected by Plum. 
4012 
4013“Ah, no… it’s fine if an even stronger spell is cast… but it would use up too
4014much energy.” 
4015
4016They remembered how exhausted she had looked when she had first came 
4017to Sora’s and everyone else’s residence.
4018 
4019Which means, for her to walk around unfazed under a blazing sun like
4020this, she would probably end up in that state again. 
4021
4022“Um, about that… because of the quality of the Seirens’ blood, well, I’m 
4023unable to use too much of my strength… so…”
4024 
4025Suddenly, a sweet smile appeared on Plum’s face.
4026 
4027“Again! As long as you let me lick Shiro-sama’s feet, I can successfully use
4028magic ~ ehehe ~ ☆” 
4029
4030“Absolutely not, you’d better stay quietly in that box.” 
4031
4032With her suggestion immediately rejected, Plum could only shut the box 
4033again while sighing.
4034 
4035“…Hey, considering that they’re ranked twelfth place, aren’t the Dhampir a
4036bit too weak?” 
4037
4038- Even when comparing with the preset abilities of the vampires back in 
4039his world, Sora still thought this way.
4040“The ability of the Dhampir corresponds with the blood that they have 
4041consumed – the thicker the soul essence, the stronger their power.”
4042 
4043Jibril replied.
4044 
4045“If combined with something that has a high affinity with confusion or
4046concealing magic – like let’s say, the blood of an Elf, 「Assassins」 that are
4047extremely hard to deal with would be birthed, and those actually do pose
4048a large threat on the battlefield.” 
4049
4050…So that’s how it is, Sora remembered the first night. 
4051
4052It was a moment of carelessness, but even Jibril was tricked by her, and now 
4053
4054– 
4055
4056“- Now it’s been reduced to this…” 
4057 
4058Looking down at the box at his feet, Sora spoke with his eyes half open.
4059 
4060It was obvious that she was still trembling within the box, with more tears
4061in her eyes. 
4062
4063“- I was thinking since earlier, the Elves and the Flügel, have only a one-
4064rank difference, so wouldn’t your strength be about the same? She can
4065drink the blood of an Elf, but she would evaporate upon drinking Jibril’s
4066blood right?” 
4067
4068Sora asked while pointing to the wooden box at his feet, while Jibril replied:
4069 
4070“Yes, because on the rankings there is a 「Segmentation」.”
4071 
4072“Segmentation?”
4073 
4074“Essentially speaking, those below the seventh rank are 「Living
4075Beings」, while those above are classified as 「Life」.” 
4076“…Which means?”
4077 
4078“Those that possess a physical body of flesh, and use typical methods of
4079reproduction are commonly classified as 「Living Beings」, which end at
4080the Elves that are ranked seventh; while those above possess the strength
4081of will or concept, which you could think of those as 「Life」.” 
4082
4083- Mm, so essentially speaking – 
4084
4085That was a watershed incomprehensible using common sense, was how 
4086Sora interpreted it.
4087 
4088“Also, the ones ranked just above Jibril – are the Gigants right? What’s the
4089difference in strength between you and that race?” 
4090
4091“…Let me think, for a standard Gigant, it would be too inadequate to kill it 
4092with the strength of just one, so more realistically speaking, I think I’d
4093need five other companions – eh? Do you have plans of hunting one?” 
4094
4095“No, I don’t, so stop looking so excited!” 
4096
4097This person over here with a disappointed expression on her face – could
4098single-handedly take down an Elf at the top of those classified as 「Living
4099Beings」. 
4100 
4101But she needed the strength of six to take down a Gigant ranked in the
4102fifth position. 
4103
4104- It was a miracle that those below the seventh survived the 「Great War」. 
4105
4106Especially the Imanity, or should I say us – ah, right. 
4107
4108“Speaking of us… hey~! Shiro, are you still not done?” 
4109
4110Suddenly, Sora realized a long period of time had passed, so he directed his
4111question to the shrubbery behind him. 
4112
4113“…Mm.” 
4114
4115Reacting to Sora’s voice, Shiro stuck her head out from behind a tree. 
4116
4117She looked hesitant as though she didn’t dare to come out. 
4118
4119“What is it? Shiro, do you still hate the sunlight? If you’re uncomfortable 
4120you don’t have to force yourself!”
4121 
4122Although she had Jibril’s special sunblock on, Shiro still hated the sunlight.
4123 
4124Not to mention Shiro’s hatred of it was even greater than Sora’s, which of
4125course Sora knew – in response to Sora that cared for her, Shiro – 
4126
4127Shaking her head continually, although still hesitant, she still slowly walked 
4128out from behind the trees.
4129 
4130“…Oh~ how beautiful.”
4131 
4132“Ah, isn’t this cute?”
4133 
4134“…Shiro, you’re really pretty, des.”
4135 
4136Ino, Miko and Izuna had expressed their own opinions – but Sora froze yet
4137again instead. 
4138
4139The one standing there was unquestionably his dear sister. 
4140
4141- That’s how it was supposed to be, but – 
4142
4143“-…Eh?” 
4144
4145The one that was nervously walking out was - 「A gemstone-like young
4146girl」. 
4147Her long hair that was already as white as snow usually, was tied up at
4148the back of her head after careful preening. 
4149
4150Under the rays of the sun her hair wasn’t like snow anymore – but was 
4151more like a crystal or a diamond.
4152 
4153The skin that was revealed between her white bikini and red cap, was as
4154though to compliment her beautiful hair or ruby-like eyes – 
4155
4156“…Nii…?” 
4157
4158- Just like her cheeks, that flushed slightly red as well. 
4159
4160“-Eh? Strange? Eh?” 
4161
4162The sense of violation from looking so dreamily at his 「Sister」, made
4163Sora mumble questions unconsciously. 
4164
4165While those mumblings made Shiro appear somewhat uneasy. 
4166
4167“…So it really…doesn’t look good…?” 
4168
4169Upon seeing Shiro say this while looking down and preparing to retreat 
4170again into the trees, Sora appeared to return to normal again.
4171 
4172He hurriedly – he himself questioned as to why he was being so panicky –
4173shook his head forcefully. 
4174
4175“N, no! No!! I was just surprised since Shiro’s so beautiful – no, wait, Shiro 
4176is a completely flawless beauty, this your brother knew since long ago! You
4177know that… right? Eh?” 
4178
4179Sora tilted his head, curious as to why he was so shocked earlier. 
4180
4181Jibril and Steph who were beside him looked immersed in her beauty as 
4182well.
4183- Shiro looked down in embarrassment. 
4184
4185As her heart rate increased, her expression hinted at something else – a 
4186tiny, appeased smile.
4187 
4188“…Really? That’s… good…”
4189 
4190…
4191 
4192“Master really is worthy of his title… isn’t this an unbelievably precious
4193piece of eye candy?” 
4194
4195“No, that’s not how it is, it’s normal to react to cute things ahhhh.” 
4196
4197Jibril appeared refreshed, with her skin pale and smooth… let out a breath 
4198of air.
4199 
4200Steph wrapped her hands around her head, appearing to be undergoing
4201some sort of internal conflict. 
4202
4203“…Nii…?” 
4204
4205“Oh, hmm? Mm, yes, you look great! You, my sister, are my greatest pride 
4206after all!"
4207 
4208Shiro walked closer to Sora, which was when Sora returned to his normal
4209self. 
4210
4211Being patted on the head by Sora, Shiro nodded her head as though finally 
4212appeased.
4213 
4214“-Uh, right, Plum, can you give us an estimate of when the 「Reception
4215Boat」 will arrive?” 
4216
4217Sora felt slightly awkward, and remembering his original aim, questioned 
4218Plum.
4219 
4220Hearing Sora’s words, everyone at once – looked over at Plum.
4221 
4222Plum revealed her face slightly from within the box, and replied:
4223 
4224“Um, about midnight or so –“
4225 
4226“-Oh, we have quite a lot of time left.”
4227 
4228Plum replied in a defeated voice:
4229 
4230“That’s why we didn’t need to come so early… waaaahhhh.”
4231 
4232After finishing her sentence – maybe because the sunlight was too
4233uncomfortable – Plum closed the box again. 
4234
4235“It’s fine, what difference does this make?” 
4236 
4237Miko spoke casually, and undetected by everyone else, she had already lay
4238down on the grass bed Sora was using earlier, allowing her followers to fan
4239her with the giant leaves, she gave an elegant reply. 
4240
4241“Just take this as a well-deserved vacation, relax and wait for the boat, after 
4242all one always needs a break in life right?”
4243 
4244Sora and Shiro scratched their heads while smiling bitterly, and exchanged
4245a knowing glance. 
4246
4247Shiro nodded her head. 
4248
4249“Thinking closely, this is the first time Shiro and I have been to the seaside.” 
4250
4251Sora’s eyes swept over Steph, Jibril, Izuna and Ino each briefly, then spoke 
4252with a laugh.
4253“Wanna try having some fun suitable for the seaside? 
4254
4255
4256Part 2
4257The blindingly white beach. 
4258
4259Light shimmered on the surface of the ocean, reflecting the sky like a 
4260mirror.
4261 
4262Through the blue sky that appeared as though sprinkled with paint,
4263sunlight pierced through, and the clouds swam in the distance. 
4264
4265There were only the noisy sounds of the waves and in the scenery 
4266with seagulls chirping, a few ripples sprayed about.
4267 
4268A group of people appeared to be playing on the section of the beach where
4269the water was only up to their ankles, and Shiro tossed the beach ball they
4270brought to the others. 
4271
4272“…Steph…catch.” 
4273
4274“I just need to pass this down right? I’m going to pass OK, Izuna?” 
4275
4276Nimbly catching Shiro’s pass, Steph passed the ball high in the air to Izuna. 
4277
4278Izuna stretched her hand out to catch the ball flying in her direction. 
4279 
4280She tilted her head.
4281 
4282“…? I don’t know the rules, des.”
4283 
4284Maybe because she was different from Steph who could read the situations
4285based on the actions of others, as she didn’t understand the point of the
4286entire affair, Izuna spoke somewhat in a confused manner. 
4287
4288“Ah~ we weren’t really going to play games in the first place… but how 
4289about this, you can’t catch the ball, just touch it once and take turns passing
4290the ball to each other, whoever can’t catch it will be considered the loser –
4291something like that.” 
4292
4293“…I understand, des…” 
4294
4295Steph smiled and looked at Izuna who nodded her head in agreement. 
4296
4297“This really gives off a relaxing sensation… isn’t it great to just play relaxing 
4298games like this once in a while?”
4299 
4300- Just like that, Steph still had a cheery expression on her face, but she still
4301hadn’t realized. 
4302
4303Sora, Shiro and Izuna’s gazes, had become as sharp as knives. 
4304
4305Since the rules had already been set and elaborated upon, this – is now a
4306「Game」. 
4307
4308Which means – 
4309
4310(-I must win-!) 
4311
4312Just like that, aside from Steph who was still as relaxed as ever, the three of 
4313them – released a burning fighting spirit…
4314 
4315“…Then…Shiro will start…”
4316 
4317Shiro spoke while asking for the ball back, silently exchanging a glance with
4318Sora. 
4319
4320- Shiro who took the ball back, nonchalantly dipped it in the seawater. 
4321
4322“…Here…Steph, catch…” 
4323Just like that, the paper-made beach ball with only its bottom drenched
4324in water flew towards Steph without twirling in the air even the slightest. 
4325
4326It had even accurately – grasped the instant where there was no wind. 
4327
4328“OK, I’m going to pass~?” 
4329
4330It was a wordless exchange of schemes, but Steph passed the ball just the 
4331same without realizing.
4332 
4333Shiro had messed with the ball – if Steph were to pass the ball directly,
4334the ball would slightly veer from the point she were to aim at. 
4335
4336As a result, the ball passed by Steph to Izuna spun slightly in the air. 
4337
4338- Because only the underside of the ball had absorbed the weight of the 
4339water, the path of the ball would shift irregularly.
4340 
4341“-!”
4342 
4343Izuna instantly spotted the slight shift of the ball.
4344 
4345She kicked the floor, creating a small spray of seawater, caught up to the
4346ball and saved it. 
4347
4348It was a normal save, lightly caught by Izuna’s arm. 
4349
4350But, Izuna’s petite body had released the overwhelming strength of a 
4351Warbeast when saving the ball.
4352 
4353- Because of that, the ball flew at an abnormal speed, approaching closer to
4354Sora. 
4355
4356However Sora remained calm, and grumbled to himself. 
4357(So she really won’t let us win so easily!)
4358 
4359Izuna’s save became as if it was a deadly smash from a professional
4360volleyball player, and when faced with the approaching ball, Sora
4361intentionally dove into the sea, creating a pillar of water. 
4362
4363The ball went through the pillar of water – and continued to move 
4364forward, but when it reached Sora’s position, it had nowhere near the
4365original speed. 
4366Sora barely managed to use his foot to putt the ball towards Shiro.
4367 
4368- That was an extremely heavy ball that was completely absorbed with
4369water. 
4370
4371“…Mm! Steph… keep it up…” 
4372
4373Shiro passed the soaking ball that had become heavy in an instant to 
4374Steph with some effort.
4375 
4376“Eh? Ah, eh!?”
4377 
4378Yes – she had impeccably accurately passed the ball over to a position
4379where Steph could just catch it. 
4380
4381Judging from the angle of incidence and the turning angle, even if Steph 
4382could catch it –
4383 
4384“Ah, I’m sorry Izuna –“
4385 
4386Even if she could catch it, it would only fly to a position a fair distance
4387from Izuna. 
4388
4389- Can’t catch it. 
4390
4391The ball flew towards a direction where it would be impossible to catch, but 
4392–
4393- Upon seeing Sora and Shiro whose mouths were curled up in victory and
4394were muttering 「We win」under their breaths, Izuna clenched her teeth. 
4395
4396 
4397“…Don’t look down on this little girl – des!!”
4398 
4399She kicked the floor and stepped forward – creating a pushing force.
4400 
4401The water originally swirling around her feet explosively spread out,
4402revealing the surface below it. 
4403
4404Izuna boosted forward as though intending to rival the force she had 
4405just created.
4406 
4407Chasing the ball that was almost hovering over the ocean surface, Izuna
4408maintained her speed and stretched out her arms. 
4409 
4410The ripples created by waving her arms about were strong enough to
4411create waves – but – 
4412
4413With a boom… 
4414
4415The surrounding water evaporated into mist, and as he saw the ball in 
4416Izuna’s hands explode, Sora yelled loudly:
4417 
4418“OK, Izuna has lost!”
4419 
4420“-? …! Y, you cheated, des! You’re despicable, des!”
4421 
4422Only realizing what had happened a beat slower than the others, Izuna
4423protested in dissatisfaction. 
4424
4425Shiro replied only after exchanging a high-five with Sora. 
4426
4427“…The person unable to catch the ball will be considered the loser… as long 
4428as Izuna-tan were to use her full strength… she would lose.”
4429 
4430That’s right, if Izuna as a Werebeast were to hit the ball that had become
4431heavy due to the absorbed water with her full strength, the ball would burst
4432as it wouldn’t be able to take the impact, thus it cannot be passed to the
4433next person – 
4434
4435Despite understanding that this was what Sora and others had planned 
4436since the very beginning, Izuna continued to protest.
4437 
4438- If the ball hadn’t burst when it did, what would’ve happened?
4439 
4440Under the noise of the violent waves and ripples that Izuna had created
4441from stepping and waving her arms about… Steph asked as though
4442complaining: 
4443
4444“…You guys… don’t you ever think of just having fun normally?” 
4445
4446“Eh? Since it’s a game, then of course not.” 
4447
4448“…Not…at all…” 
4449
4450“Since it’s a game, isn’t it normal to strive for victory with one’s goals, des?” 
4451 
4452Hearing the unhesitant, somewhat childish replies from the three, Steph
4453could only allow herself to be swept away with the waves… 
4454
4455Miko who was watching them from a distance spoke reverently: 
4456
4457“Oh… they managed to beat Izuna in sports, that’s really something… even 
4458though they weren’t planning on using legitimate ways, but it’s really some!?”
4459
4460
4461- Her sentence was interrupted. 
4462
4463Feeling a presence behind her, Miko immediately shifted her hands to 
4464her breasts!
4465But even with the superhuman reflexes of a Werebeast, she was still a
4466few milliseconds too slow. 
4467
4468With her swimsuit suddenly stripped away, she could barely shield 
4469her breasts, but Miko managed to glare sharply at the 「Culprit」.
4470 
4471“-What is the meaning of this? The vermin over there?”
4472 
4473Jibril who was facing the brunt of her gaze feigned ignorance instead.
4474 
4475She was fiddling with the swimsuit she had stripped from Miko.
4476 
4477“According to Master’s literature, to 「Expose one’s breasts」 at a place
4478like this would be fate ☆” 
4479
4480“Oh~ really… so you must adhere to the same fate as well then?” 
4481
4482Miko shielded her chest, but – she slightly lowered her center of gravity. 
4483
4484Miko had unquestionably taken on a 「Battle Stance」, while Jibril chuckled
4485in response. 
4486
4487“Fine, no problem, but if you think a dog that can merely crawl on the floor 
4488can take away something from me – then I advise you to quickly change
4489your mind-set?” 
4490
4491“Huh? It appears you’re in the wrong here, I clearly don’t merely crawl on 
4492the floor you know?”
4493 
4494She had a smile on her face.
4495 
4496While their killing intents impossible to detect with the naked eye clashed
4497and produced sparks – 
4498
4499-… 
4500“Ah, Shiro you can’t swim?”
4501 
4502“…Eh? Steph… you can swim?”
4503 
4504She had initially thought that Shiro was omnipotent, but the shock
4505stemming from that an astounding truth like that existed, caused Steph to
4506question her. 
4507
4508But instead Shiro was shocked by the fact that Steph could swim – 
4509
4510“…Amazing, des.” 
4511
4512“Indeed Stephanie-san is truly worthy of her name, you’re capable of not 
4513only politics, cooking, sewing… but even proficient at swimming, however I
4514have a simple question – for a land-dwelling animal, is there a need to swim
4515in the water!?” 
4516
4517“Old man, you’ve spoken the best sentence of the century! A land-dwelling 
4518animal should remain on land!!”
4519 
4520- The group that couldn’t swim replied as one.
4521 
4522Steph smiled bitterly and grasped Shiro’s hand.
4523 
4524“I really don’t know how to deal with you, it’s more fun to know how to
4525swim, here, I’ll teach you.” 
4526
4527“…Oh…” 
4528
4529“Here, I’ll hold on to your hand, just start from kicking the water with 
4530your feet.”
4531 
4532Steph comforted the uninterested Shiro and began teaching from the basics.
4533 
4534Steph took hold of Shiro’s hand.
4535But – 
4536
4537“Uwaaaahhhh!” 
4538 
4539“Aaaaahhhhh!”
4540 
4541A sudden huge wave reeled in, sweeping everyone onto the beach in an
4542instant. 
4543
4544“…Poof…aahhh…Nii…” 
4545
4546“WaaaaaSHIROaaaaaa!” 
4547
4548Seeing Shiro who was about to be swept away by the waves, Sora dashed 
4549up to grab her.
4550 
4551Shiro gasped for air while grabbing onto her brother, and mumbled:
4552 
4553“…Nii…Shiro wants to learn… to swim!”
4554 
4555Maybe because the seawater got into her eyes, Shiro spoke determinedly
4556with tears streaking down her cheeks. 
4557
4558But Sora yelled towards 「The ones that created the wave」instead: 
4559
4560“You two over there! Can you at least respect – or at least obey the laws of 
4561physics… can you?”
4562 
4563His emotional voice gradually got weaker after seeing the scene that lay
4564before him. 
4565
4566What was before him was – 
4567
4568On the distant sea were two battling – monsters. 
4569
4570“Hah, despite being so arrogant, you’re only at this standard, right, huh?” 
4571Jibril mocked while flying across the water surface.
4572 
4573Right below her, Miko who had jumped out below from below the water
4574surface turned completely red in an instant, and stretched out her hand to
4575grab her. 
4576
4577- Miko even used 「Blood Devastation」, but Jibril still managed to dodge 
4578that outstretched hand by a few millimeters.
4579 
4580But Miko directly – ran on the surface of the water – while shielding
4581her breasts with both hands. 
4582 
4583Miko’s clothes that she had worn on her swimsuit, and even her hanten
4584appeared to have been snatched away, so she released a murderous
4585aura unreservedly, chasing after Jibril in an attempt to get her swimsuit
4586back. 
4587
4588“Heheh ☆ Say your prayers, I’m gonna skin you alive ☆” 
4589
4590So this is Miko, the representative of the Werebeasts - 「The strongest
4591Werebeast」? 
4592
4593She ran on the surface of the water – and occasionally despite only for an 
4594instant, even soared in the air.
4595 
4596Every time she dove into the sea, Miko who basked in the water and
4597wind, had her body change from red to golden – 
4598
4599“…Miko-sama does live up to her name… how powerful, des.” 
4600
4601- Upon seeing the events unfolding before her, even Izuna couldn’t believe 
4602her eyes, it was unquestionably a situation with no room for others to butt
4603in. 
4604
4605Sora decided to give up, and instead turned around, ignoring them. 
4606
4607“Mm… what a beautiful sight.” 
4608Sora spotted Ino as he turned around, and followed his line of sight.
4609 
4610What he saw was a group of people swept to the shore – not only Steph and
4611Izuna. 
4612
4613The waves had appeared to strike the shore as well, dragging Miko’s 
4614followers into the chaos as well, all of them were completely drenched –
4615 
4616Their subtly transparent swimsuits, created an indescribable scene.
4617 
4618“Oh… I see, it’s still unforgivable on their part to almost let Shiro drown,
4619but this is pretty stunning as well.” 
4620
4621Sora carried Shiro back onto the shore. 
4622
4623“Ah, this really is a treat for our eyes, Sora-san.” 
4624
4625“Yeah, it would be perfect without you.” 
4626
4627Trying his best not to let him enter his field of vision, Sora complained to 
4628the muscular old man wearing only a loincloth.
4629 
4630Watching the group of noisy people being swept away by the waves, Steph
4631smiled cheerfully. 
4632
4633“Hah… I’ve been so busy with work recently…” 
4634
4635The dazzling sunlight and the white beach. 
4636
4637Steph returned to the waterside, and kicked the water surface lightly. 
4638
4639The waves created by her feet, and the wind blowing in from the sea, 
4640seemed to drive away the fatigue from her daily routine –
4641 
4642“…I guess I need a rest once in a while.”
4643Steph spoke passionately. 
4644
4645Smelling the salt of the sea breeze, Steph suddenly thought to herself 
4646when was the last time she had got the chance to relax like this?
4647 
4648Since Sora’s bunch came along – no, since her grandfather passed away.
4649 
4650It felt like she hadn’t relaxed in a few years – Steph breathed deeply.
4651 
4652“Isn’t it great to be able to come here…?”
4653 
4654Steph spoke, seemingly seeking approval from no-one.
4655 
4656- Beepbeepbeep.
4657 
4658“OK~! Cut~~ pack up! Thanks for everyone’s hard work!!”
4659 
4660Sora yelled with both his eyes half open.
4661 
4662…One after the other… everyone dragged themselves from the sea back to
4663the shore with the spirit and energy of half-dead bodies. 
4664
4665“…Ugh…my hair’s sandy…sand everywhere…” 
4666
4667“Phew… I apologize, Master, I really can’t enjoy the ocean… when the sea 
4668breeze gets into my wings it makes me feel inexplicably unhappy.”
4669 
4670“My tail’s so heavy after absorbing all the water, des… how troublesome,
4671des.” 
4672
4673“Phew~ this feels terrible, who exactly thought of thalassotherapy
4674[12]
4675, it’s
4676just plain ridiculous.” 
4677
4678“My sincerest apologies, Miko-sama, for troubling you to play along with 
4679Sora-san’s tricks.”
4680Everyone’s moods seemed to have taken an about turn for the worse,
4681just like a group of actors after finishing a performance – 
4682
4683“…Eh? Eh?” 
4684
4685Steph was the only one that couldn’t keep up with the situation and was left 
4686in the middle of the sea alone, watching everyone else return to shore.
4687
4688“-Hmm? What are you doing? Steph, the filming’s done, you can come back 
4689to the shore now.”
4690 
4691Sora spoke while closing the recording applications of the smartphone
4692and tablet computers set up at the trees along the shore. 
4693
4694“…Eh? Huh? What’s going on?” 
4695
4696“-Hmm? Sigh, Steph don’t tell me you were actually having fun earlier?” 
4697
4698After moving into the shade, everyone had shocked expressions on their 
4699faces while massaging their bodies.
4700 
4701“…Ah, sorry, about that, Steph… actually.”
4702 
4703Maybe because he didn’t think that she wouldn’t notice at all, Sora spoke
4704somewhat awkwardly: 
4705
4706“…Among everyone here…none of us like the ocean at all…” 
4707
4708- 「…Mm…」 
4709
4710Everyone agreed while nodding vigorously. 
4711
4712Amongst them Miko looked particularly disturbed. 
4713
4714She spoke while grooming her golden fur: 
4715“Although I was trying to play along with the 「Common practices」 that
4716Sora was talking about… I still don’t really understand… there’s a ton of
4717sand on my tail… how am I going to get this off?” 
4718
4719“Shiro-san – now!” 
4720
4721Jibril’s eyes lit up all of a sudden, and she quickly passed something to
4722Shiro. 
4723
4724- At the same time, Shiro’s eyes lit up as well and gave Jibril a thumbs-up, 
4725saying “Good job.”
4726 
4727“…Miko-san…I suggest that you use…this brush and…hair conditioner.”
4728 
4729“R, really? Thank you very much.”
4730 
4731“…Fondle…phew…”
4732 
4733Ingeniously finding an excuse to achieve her goal, Shiro let out a
4734conniving laugh, and buried her head in Miko’s golden tail. 
4735
4736And Sora was holding the exact same thing that had mysteriously appeared 
4737in his hands.
4738 
4739“Ya~hoo~! Then I’ll help Izuna as well –“
4740 
4741“I’ll help Izuna groom her fur, here, Izuna come over here.”
4742 
4743Ino blocked his path instead.
4744 
4745Their eyes met – and both men glared at each other.
4746 
4747“…Old man, how about you go clean your own tail?”
4748 
4749“If Sora-san were to groom her fur Izuna would be contaminated by your
4750malicious air, how about Sora-san you take care of your frail body
4751instead!?”
4752Izuna ignored their quarrel, and unhesitatingly walked forward – 
4753
4754And sat down in front of Ino. 
4755
4756“Hurry up, des.” 
4757
4758“…” 
4759“..Old man, being able to incur the killing intent of others without speaking,
4760is that sort of expression a special ability of the Werebeasts as well?” 
4761
4762Looking at Ino’s expression that was so cheerful he could almost hear cries 
4763of pleasure coming from him, Sora’s veins began to pulsate violently on his
4764forehead. 
4765
4766…With a whishing sound, the waves brushed against Steph’s feet. 
4767
4768- It seemed that everyone had forgotten about Steph’s existence 
4769completely…
4770
4771
4772Part 3
4773- The sun was about to sink below sea level. 
4774
4775“…Heheh, the sunset is so beautiful… heheheh…” 
4776
4777Sitting on the beach while hugging her knees, as though she had escaped 
4778into a world of her own, what was on Steph’s face was… a smile.
4779 
4780- Suddenly Sora shouted.
4781 
4782“- I’m bored.”
4783 
4784Hearing that, everyone turned to look at Sora.
4785 
4786“Ugh, how despicable to run away after you’ve won, des.”
4787 
4788All this time until sunset, Sora and Izuna were playing with the DSP, Shogi,
4789tic-tac-toe and other games in the shade of the trees, all these activities that
4790would make one question why they’d bother to come to the sea in the first
4791place, and upon hearing Sora’s exclamation, Izuna protested, refusing to
4792give in. 
4793
4794“Ah, it’s not that, it’s not because I’m bored of playing games with Izuna.” 
4795
4796Sora stood up while speaking and shouted at the wooden box: 
4797
4798“Hey, Plum, shouldn’t the Reception Boat be here by now?” 
4799
4800“”Ah!”” 
4801 
4802- It appears that everyone had forgotten their original purpose, and cried
4803out in surprise involuntarily.
4804Plum stuck her head out from under the box. 
4805
4806Maybe because she was using magic continuously for a period of time, 
4807Plum’s exhausted expression once again reminded everyone of her
4808expression when they first met. She replied: 
4809
4810“Um, I, didn’t I say that they’d only be here about midnight…” 
4811
4812“The battery power of my handhelds and my tablet computer is running 
4813out, and I’m getting bored.”
4814 
4815“That’s why I said we came too early…”
4816 
4817The still-exhausted Plum complained dissatisfiedly.
4818 
4819While Sora behaved like a kid throwing a tantrum.
4820 
4821“No, I’m bored, I want to go now, either that or I’m going back.”
4822 
4823“Why’re you saying something childish like that…”
4824 
4825Plum appeared defeated, while Sora ignored her and exchanged a glance
4826with Miko and Shiro. 
4827
4828Ever since they reached the shore, Miko was being stroked by Shiro in the 
4829shade of the trees, and Shiro was stroking Miko all this time as well.
4830
4831- They nodded slightly, and spoke at once. 
4832
4833“Exactly… it is pretty boring here.” 
4834
4835“…Mm…Shiro is…tired…” 
4836
4837“Eh… why’re even you two saying such capricious things…” 
4838
4839Plum appeared heartbroken, while Sora opened his mouth to speak. 
4840“Jibril.”
4841 
4842“Here.”
4843 
4844At his call, Jibril immediately appeared from thin air.
4845 
4846“Have you got the position?”
4847 
4848“Yes, the position calculated by the Masters should be correct.”
4849 
4850- Calculated?
4851 
4852Plum appeared confused, while Sora took out his tablet PC.
4853 
4854On the map detailing the perimeter of the Eastern Federation, the records
4855of their trading with Oceande had been recorded as well, and thus he had
4856deduced the rough position of the 「City」. 
4857
4858Pointing to the direction indicated by its position – Sora looked towards 
4859the horizon and said:
4860 
4861“OK, that’s enough – do it.”
4862 
4863“- I obey?!”
4864 
4865Hearing Sora’s words, Jibril was unable to hide the jubilant expression on
4866her face while kneeling on the floor to accept his order. 
4867
4868“Eh? W, what are you doing…?” 
4869
4870Plum asked uneasily, but Ino was about to ask the same question. 
4871
4872Ino’s 「Instinct」as a Werebeast warned him of something. 
4873
4874To elaborate, it seemed that the situation needed to be stopped. 
4875Whatever these people were about to do – it definitely wouldn’t be
4876something good. 
4877
4878So Ino glanced sideways at Miko. 
4879
4880He let out a breath of relief only after seeing Miko nod her head slightly
4881to indicate 「It’s all right」. 
4882
4883But as he saw Miko smile as though to say 「Be careful though」, Ino’s 
4884face paled.
4885 
4886Sora lifted up Shiro, and spoke a single sentence.
4887 
4888“We’ll go off ourselves, everyone back off.”
4889 
4890After which, Sora and others left the waterside, which was when Jibril
4891asked: 
4892“- Master, is it really OK to be doing this?”
4893 
4894She appeared impatient – but she still made the final confirmations
4895excitedly. 
4896
4897“It’s fine, besides won’t the power of the 「Ten Oaths」 come into effect?” 
4898
4899「The First」 of the Ten Oaths. 
4900
4901- All bloodshed, war and pillage is forbidden throughout the world. 
4902
4903“Any actions with harming intent, and any actions seen as involving
4904violence, will be canceled due to the limitations of the oaths – conversely
4905speaking, actions not involving harming intent won’t be cancelled. Which
4906means the 「Only God (Tet)」has guaranteed that when we do it, that
4907action won‘t be considered as violating the rights of anyone, so –“ 
4908
4909Sora revealed a daring smile, and gave a thumbs-up. 
4910“Make it as large as you can.”
4911 
4912Hearing his response, Jibril as though receiving a sacred order
4913ceremoniously bowed, but her facial expression contrasted with her actions
4914as she smiled in relief. Jibril stood up. 
4915
4916“Hahah, hahahahah~ I don’t know how many years it’s been since I’ve last 
4917used this, hehehe~ I’m looking forward to this~…”
4918 
4919Jibril had an intoxicated expression on her face, and mumbled to herself
4920so. At this time her surroundings – 
4921
4922- Suddenly distorted. 
4923
4924Apparently the light – no, as though space itself had twisted, everything 
4925became distorted with their shapes changing.
4926 
4927- 「The Ten Oaths」.
4928 
4929The usage of violence in this world – any actions intending to cause harm
4930will be prevented by the power of the oaths. 
4931
4932Regarding this, Ino understood perfectly, but when personally faced 
4933with those events, goosebumps still appeared on his skin.
4934 
4935“OK, everyone get back!”
4936 
4937Miko ordered calmly but sharply.
4938 
4939This sentence, made all present Werebeasts, as though their bodies and
4940free will had separated from themselves, reflexively leap backward. 
4941
4942“…Eh? What’s happening?”
4943 
4944Due to Miko’s loud yell, Steph finally snapped back to reality. 
4945[13]
4946
4947- Suddenly, she realized she was the only one that was particularly close to 
4948the ocean.
4949 
4950Crash – a sound outside of the audible range caused the area to tremor.
4951 
4952The sand on the beach even ignored gravity and began dancing about,
4953while space continued to distort. 
4954
4955The space that was slowly distorting and changing shape began to gather 
4956at Jibril’s hands.
4957 
4958Plum was the only other one there who could see magic – the only other
4959one that could see Spirits. 
4960
4961But as she looked at what Jibril was doing, she still appeared completely 
4962confused.
4963 
4964Judging from Sora’s explanation earlier… it wasn’t surprising.
4965
4966What Jibril was doing was – 「Absorbing all Spirits in the area」. 
4967
4968When the Spirits that are supposed to be in a place are removed, then one 
4969naturally wouldn’t be able to see anything, just like a black hole.
4970 
4971And – in Jibril’s hands, the absorbed Spirits were being compressed,
4972squeezed, condensed, minimized, concentrated, and finally let out a glow of
4973light. 
4974
4975Even though Imanity that can’t see spirits, Sora and Shiro were able to see 
4976clearly what was going on.
4977 
4978In Jibril’s right hand, a swirling vortex-like pillar of light gradually began
4979to form.
4980
4981  
4982
4983  
4984Regarding things related to magic or Spirits, Sora and Shiro could neither
4985comprehend nor detect them, but – 
4986
4987The halo on Jibril’s head had become a ball of light from spinning way too 
4988fast.
4989 
4990Which could only mean one thing.
4991 
4992“…Hey, eh? You’re joking! Eh? Eh~~!?”
4993 
4994Plum who had finally realized what was going on, hurriedly tried to seek
4995shelter, yet yelled instead as she was unable to free herself from the box. 
4996
4997Yes, this scene could only mean one thing. 
4998
4999And that is Jibril was preparing to cast a spell that was, at least by Sora and 
5000Shiro’s standards, never-before-seen, at a completely inhuman and
5001irregular dimension. 
5002
5003As the shape was not fixed at all, 「It」 could neither be classified as a 
5004sword or a spear.
5005 
5006But Jibril was grasping tightly onto it with her right hand.
5007 
5008And she – slowly raised it – revealing a sweet smile.
5009 
5010“So then Master…”
5011 
5012“I will use - 「A B O U T F I V E P E R C E N T」 of my full power then?”
5013 
5014Jibril’s right hand descended with a speed as though to leave her previous
5015sentence in the dust. 
5016
5017That was all Sora and others could witness. 
5018It was like hearing thunder only slightly after lightning strikes.
5019 
5020After a few seconds, along with an exploding sound loud enough to quake
5021the earth, a huge wave swept up tall enough to reach the heavens – 
5022
5023It was almost as if jokingly - 「The sea parted」. And 
5024then –
5025 
5026“Kyaaaaaaaaaahhhh!”
5027 
5028“Aaaaahhhhhhhhhh!”
5029 
5030The aftershock from the impact, swept Steph and Plum still in the box over
5031to Sora and others. 
5032
5033- This is what they saw after that. 
5034
5035“Phew…? It’s such a great feeling to be able to use my powers.” 
5036
5037As though greatly relaxed, Jibril had an invincible, cheerful smile on her 
5038face. “I hope the time will come – where I get to use 100% full power?” 
5039Hearing that, even Sora and Shiro released a cold sweat.
5040 
5041Only 5% was enough to part the ocean, shaming even Moses… they
5042suddenly recalled – 
5043
5044Jibril had previously unleashed full force upon the Elves, which means a 
5045100% 「Airstrike」.
5046 
5047They hadn’t completely blocked it, but they did manage to deflect it
5048partially 
5049
5050– 
5051
5052“…The Elves…Fii’s bunch really is amazing.” 
5053“…Nod.”
5054 
5055The both of them couldn’t resist commenting – while Shiro nodded in
5056respect for her who wasn’t present at the time. 
5057
5058As for their inner thoughts, Jibril of course knew nothing. 
5059
5060“Anyway we can now 「See」 the capital of the Seirens, so I can teleport
5061you anytime.” 
5062
5063…The five senses of the Werebeasts were at their physical peaks. 
5064
5065Certainly not to say Ino, Izuna and even Miko could only see the horizon. 
5066
5067Maybe because the previous strike had bent the light, for Jibril that had
5068said she could 「See」 it earlier, everyone remained speechless. 
5069
5070- Sora looked at everyone who had backed away earlier. 
5071 
5072“OK, everyone, let’s go, grab onto Jibril.”
5073 
5074Miko and the Werebeasts appeared defeated, and returned to the beach in
5075trepidation. 
5076
5077“I had known this since earlier… but to see it myself, it’s just like a bad 
5078joke.”
5079 
5080“…Ugh… the best course of action would be not to get involved with the
5081Flügel at all…” 
5082
5083Plum climbed out from the broken wooden box, and spoke after Miko, 
5084luckily, the sun had already set.
5085 
5086Ino then yelled in panic:
5087“Sora-san! Please don’t let Miko-sama hear 「That noise」!” 
5088
5089Ino called out, apparently afraid of the sound of space distorting created by 
5090long-distance teleportation.
5091 
5092“Ah, he’s right, Jibril.”
5093 
5094“Yes, I understand, so – everyone please grab tightly… ah, hey, Dora-chan
5095stop sleeping already, get up.” 
5096
5097“…Eh? Huh? What happened – w, what is this!? The sea parted!?” 
5098
5099Steph yelled alone, while everyone else ignored her reaction and gathered 
5100around Jibril.
5101 
5102“So we’ll teleport now, off to the capital of the Seirens – Oceande.”
5103 
5104Jibril’s wings began glowing again, and her halo spun faster and faster.
5105 
5106“The distance is three hundred and seventy-eight point twenty-three
5107kilometers, but the parted ocean waters are about to return to normal.” 
5108
5109As though in response to her words, the seawater rumbled and began to 
5110return to their original position.
5111 
5112“So, I predict that Oceande won’t have any air.”
5113 
5114“Ah, I, it’s fine, I have a spell for breathing underwater –“
5115 
5116It was unclear whether they didn’t hear Plum, or whether they were
5117simply ignoring her – 
5118
5119“So – I’m going to teleport the air in a radius of two hundred meters along 
5120with us then?”
5121“-Eh?” 
5122
5123“Get back!” 
5124
5125Miko’s voice rang out once again. 
5126
5127Hearing this, aside from Ino and Izuna – even the Werebeasts that were 
5128with them at the seaside previously hurriedly left as well.
5129 
5130- In an instant.
5131 
5132Leaving behind only the exploding noise at an extremely high
5133frequency created by space shattering, the group disappeared. 
5134
5135“”Kyaaaaaahhhhhhhh!”” 
5136
5137As the air that was removed refilled itself, an explosively low air pressure 
5138was created.
5139 
5140A miniscule tornado began blowing, and the remaining Werebeast
5141females grabbed onto tree trunks in defense – while any who could
5142witness that scene… were gone. 
5143
5144
5145
5146
5147
5148
5149
5150
5151 
5152Chapter 3 - Charmer/ssǝɹdɯƎ ǝɥ⊥ 
5153Part 1
5154- 「Oceande」…the underwater city where both the Seirens and
5155Dhampir reside. 
5156
5157It did not carry out trade with any other nation, being a truly self-
5158providing hermit country.
5159 
5160Being at the bottom of the sea, it cannot be reached through normal means.
5161 
5162And exactly because of this, a bunch of people came forth with abnormal
5163means. 
5164
5165Jibril parted the sea, and the place she teleported to was a tower high 
5166enough to overlook the whole of Oceande.
5167 
5168The depth was about two hundred meters, and if that amount of
5169seawater were to flow back in… 
5170
5171“Something like this would happen…” 
5172
5173Miko, who was standing behind Sora let out a sigh, and what she was 
5174looking at was – the other side of the air bubble Jibril had created.
5175 
5176The sand and rocks at the bottom of the ocean were violently tossed and
5177turned as though they were in a gigantic blender. 
5178
5179No matter how powerful Jibril was, she would be unable to use violence 
5180due to the limitations of the 「Oaths」.
5181 
5182If the 「Oaths」 did exercise their power, then no harm should have
5183been caused to anyone… 
5184“…You’re sure that this won’t hit the city or anyone else, right?”
5185 
5186“No, not at all. The 「Ten Oaths」are absolute, so it’s fine. There won’t be
5187a problem… probably.” 
5188
5189Sora attempted to comfort himself as the tides calmed around him. The 
5190sand settled, and the seawater became clear once again.
5191 
5192“- Oh, this really is something.”
5193 
5194“…Beautiful…” 
5195Sora and Shiro spoke their thoughts regarding the huge and wide city
5196below them. 
5197
5198Completely different from how fairytale-like and simplistic Sora thought 
5199it would be, it was really a great 「City」.
5200 
5201Immeasurable amounts of buildings that appeared to be built from stones
5202from the bottom of the sea stood side by side. 
5203
5204The walls that were giving off a pearly glow had shells and corals pasted on 
5205them like bricks, creating wonderfully bright and fresh colors. Possibly due
5206to the buoyancy of the water, complex formations and reverse cone-shaped
5207buildings could be seen – which was when Sora spoke: 
5208
5209“…Hmm? Why isn’t everything blue?” 
5210
5211At the bottom of the sea, only blue rays of light from the sun should be able 
5212to reach. The person to answer his question was Shiro.
5213 
5214“…Nii, it’s probably… those.”
5215 
5216Shiro pointed to the countless glowing seaweeds and jellyfish –
5217completely natural 「Streetlights」. 
5218- It was no wonder that the city itself was glowing.
5219 
5220“Oh come on, don’t treat me like an idiot. Anyway, isn't this a great-looking
5221city?” 
5222
5223“…Hah, thanks for the compliment…” 
5224
5225Plum replied with a bitter smile that carried hints of defeat and 
5226humiliation. “Because this place was built and maintained by the 
5227Dhampirs… haha…” …Sora couldn’t find any words to say to her, and 
5228instead turned around.
5229 
5230Jibril, Izuna and Steph were surveying their surroundings curiously,
5231while Miko appeared as composed as ever. 
5232
5233And – 
5234 
5235“- Sora-san…what is the meaning…of this…?”
5236 
5237Ino asked painfully, apparently impacted by the noise from their
5238teleportation. 
5239
5240“I did adhere to your request since Izuna and Miko appear to be fine, so you 
5241have to thank Jibril for this!”
5242 
5243“…Ah~ I have no problem with that, but could you just let me say
5244something?” 
5245
5246Miko looked at Sora, Shiro and Jibril in turn, and took a deep breath. “- 
5247You people, there’s got to be a limit to your ignorance…” 
5248“Eh?”
5249 
5250“…Is there…a problem?”
5251“Oh, does the carnivorous subgenus of a mutt have something to say?” 
5252
5253The three ignorant people tilted their heads in curiosity at once. 
5254
5255While the few with some common sense – Steph spoke loudly as though 
5256representing Miko:
5257 
5258“P-parting the sea like that, no matter how you look at it it just seems like
5259an act of hostility doesn’t it!? So, how are you planning to get us to their
5260queen at this rate?” 
5261
5262“They invited us in the first place, and it was they as well who made us 
5263wait, so since we’re running out of time and in a hurry we came here
5264ourselves. Considering Jibril’s hard work, they should be thanking us and
5265receiving us with song and dance, shouldn’t they?” 
5266
5267Miko and Izuna’s senses told them that Sora was spouting lies yet again, and 
5268they shut their mouths half-heartedly.
5269 
5270The remaining Werebeast – Ino continued to rub his ears while moaning
5271in pain. 
5272
5273“…Ah~ about that don’t you worry… look over there.” 
5274 
5275But as they heard Plum speak, everyone looked in the direction she was
5276pointing at once. 
5277
5278Countless people began darting out of the city and hurriedly began 
5279proceeding in their direction.
5280 
5281- Females with the lower half of their bodies covered with scales and
5282resembling fish tails, and the upper half of their bodies human-shaped. 
5283
5284Their breasts were shielded with small wraps of cloth, and their necks 
5285and hands had what appeared to be leftover jewelry on them.
5286Their resemblances were exactly the same as fairytale beings - 
5287「Mermaids」.
5288 
5289“…Ah, so those are the Seirens? Great, luckily everything’s going as
5290planned.” 
5291
5292If the things that came out were beings like Cthulhu Sora would be more 
5293than ready to flip tables, but he felt relieved at this development. 
5294[14]
5295
5296 
5297“G-guys look over there, all those people are panicking… they really must be
5298angry.” 
5299
5300Steph spoke uneasily while looking at the Seirens standing in front of their 
5301air bubble, after which –
5302 
5303“Eh, eh…?”
5304 
5305Steph opened her eyes wide in shock.
5306 
5307The Seirens were gracefully swimming while spinning round and round in
5308the water, displaying their glittering scales. 
5309
5310Their incredibly colorful jewelry made of corals and pearls displayed on 
5311their smooth, snow-white skin swayed about along with the current.
5312 
5313No fixed rhythm could be detected from their movements.
5314 
5315The glowing jellyfish were lit up by blue rays of light, the schools of fish
5316of varying colors, not to mention the mermaids gracefully swimming – 
5317
5318Such a dreamlike sight would attract anyone’s attention, which 
5319probably meant – 
5320
5321“…Nii, this is their grateful and welcoming…dance.” 
5322
5323“- Apparently so… l-look here, Steph, didn’t I say there wasn’t a problem!” 
5324“These people really are magnanimous as the ocean is deep…”
5325 
5326After a while, a Seiren that appeared to be wearing the most beautiful
5327jewelry swam forth – 
5328
5329She waved both her hands, and her mouth opened and closed randomly. 
5330
5331Observing her motions, Steph tilted her head, not understanding what 
5332was going on, while Sora realized what was going on.
5333 
5334“We’re in the air Jibril created for us, and they’re out there in the water –
5335sound probably won’t travel.” 
5336
5337“Yeah… I’ll go explain and drink some blood along the way so I can use the 
5338power from that to cast a spell that will allow all of you to breathe in the
5339water, so please remove this air barrier after that…” 
5340
5341As she finished her sentence, Plum immediately sprinted forward, 
5342broke through the air bubble and swam into the water.
5343 
5344They glanced at her as she left.
5345 
5346“Even if we really are saviors of their species…”
5347 
5348“- They still welcomed us this warmly after the gates to their city were
5349forced open with an attack like that?” 
5350
5351Hearing Jibril and Miko’s whispers with sharp glances on their faces, Sora 
5352laughed coldly as well:
5353 
5354“…The Seirens, are they really idiots? Or –“
5355
5356
5357Part 2 
5358“Hello~ everyone~, hehe ☆ I am Her Majesty the Queen’s representative,
5359Amira~! Everything’s OK~ ☆” 
5360
5361They’re idiots. 
5362
5363Sora managed to swallow his blatantly honest thought. 
5364 
5365After Jibril removed the air bubble, a Seiren had rushed up immediately.
5366 
5367「This Person」 who called herself Amira, if her words could be trusted –
5368but the scary part was they probably could be – she was the sole
5369representative over all the existing Seirens at the moment. 
5370
5371She had silky green hair, snow-white skin that was almost transparent, 
5372and clear blue eyes.
5373 
5374She wore coral jewelry all about her, but she didn’t give off a vulgar air.
5375 
5376Considering she was a mermaid, it would probably be a legitimate form of
5377dressing, but her personality was – 
5378
5379“Thank you all for coming specially, like really thanks a lot~ ☆ ~~~Really, 
5380
5381the only way I can express my feelings right now would be through a 
5382kiss~! Fufu ☆ Right?”
5383 
5384
5385“...No thanks, I’ll cherish your well wishes though…” 
5386
5387It wasn’t a matter of honorifics or anything like that, although what she 
5388spoke could be considered as Imanity, everything about it was strange.
5389Sora and the others were gaping in shock, while Amira continued to
5390swim around busily. 
5391
5392“Even in the depths of the ocean, rumors of the conquests of both of you 
5393have reached here as well~ ☆The miraculous king here to save the Imanity
5394sounds like an incredibly handsome person just by hearing about him, and
5395your looks suit Amira’s preference as well~!! Right ☆” 
5396
5397“…Oh, really?” 
5398
5399It was the first time that he was called handsome by a girl… but why was it? 
5400
5401He wasn’t happy at all… thinking of those miscellaneous things, Sora 
5402nodded in agreement.
5403 
5404“Aha ☆ Your voice is so cool as well!! Amira’s so wet~ ah, because I’m in
5405the ocean~ hehe☆” 
5406
5407Sora glanced at Plum wordlessly, while she silently returned his gaze 
5408while shaking her head in sadness.
5409 
5410Amira didn’t seem to mind that sort of attitude at all, and instead
5411continued with a smile plastered on her face: 
5412
5413“Oh~ we’ve prepared a feast, hehe ☆ Would you like to have the food? 
5414Or•perhaps•have •me? ♥”
5415 
5416Amira shook her body in an attempt to seduce Sora.
5417 
5418While Ino accidentally revealed a lecherous expression on his face, and
5419his temperature rose – 
5420
5421“First let us see 「The Empress」, your welcome can wait until after that.” 
5422
5423Hearing Sora’s obvious rejection, Ino perked his ears up in surprise. 
5424But Amira didn’t seem to mind.
5425 
5426“Ah, you really are as focused as they say ☆ But if so Amira might like you
5427even more, you know ☆” 
5428
5429“…Really…anyway please lead us there.” 
5430
5431“OK~ ☆ So let’s swim into the city~ follow me, over here~ phew~ ♥” 
5432
5433With Amira leading the way, Sora and others descended the tower and 
5434headed in the direction of Oceande.
5435 
5436Sora heard Ino speaking behind him.
5437 
5438“…Sora-san, it’s amazing that you could reject her so quickly.”
5439 
5440“Huh?”
5441 
5442“No, in the ocean even the senses of us Werebeasts will be limited, so I can’t
5443grasp Sora-san’s true intentions… but considering that even when being
5444seduced by such an attractive woman you still can remain composed, Sorasan,
5445do you
5446have
5447superhuman
5448self-control
5449–“
5450
5451
5452However Sora glared at Ino coldly in response, and he spoke as though 
5453spitting:
5454 
5455“Old man, are you that desperate, even though I’m a virgin, what do you
5456expect me to feel about someone of that standard… let’s go, Shiro.” 
5457
5458“…Mm…” 
5459 
5460Leaving behind the speechless Ino, Sora swam towards the city while
5461carrying Shiro –
5462
5463
5464Part 3
5465Immediately as they stepped into Oceande, they were welcomed by
5466extravagant cheers. 
5467
5468Every single Seiren had joyful smiles on their faces, and were dancing 
5469seductively while playing completely out-of-tune music.
5470
5471As for the language – there was probably no need for them to speak 
5472Imanity anyway, as although they couldn’t understand the Seirens, they
5473could definitely sense their welcoming intent. 
5474
5475In the midst of the joyfully frolicking crowds of Seirens, what appeared to 
5476be female Dhampirs could be seen occasionally.
5477 
5478Their facial expressions were in contrast with the Seirens, not all that
5479different from Plum’s. 
5480
5481Those were pitiful… tired smiles, and their expressions as they 
5482welcomed Sora’s bunch seemed to say 「Thank you for coming this
5483far」. 
5484
5485- In exchange for a constant source of blood from the Seirens, the Dhampirs 
5486were to assist the Queen in reproducing.
5487 
5488Before their Queen was hibernating the two races were in a state of perfect
5489mutualism, but now their relations were like a candle in the wind –
5490however – 
5491
5492“I’m curious, how can these people remain so cheerful and lively even 
5493when their race is nearing extinction?”
5494 
5495Yes – leaving out the Dhampirs, the Seirens didn’t appear gloomy in the
5496slightest.
5497“- Didn’t I explain before … they completely don’t understand what is
5498happening to them.” 
5499 
5500Plum replied with a weary smile, while Jibril continued:
5501 
5502“Because the Seirens are so incredibly dumb that their stupidity has
5503reached legendary status, and in the languages of all the nations the very
5504mention of their species have become synonymous to 「Idiots」, and even
5505that term itself has been used to refer to the 「Seirens」as well, even being
5506used as verbs in sentences.” 
5507
5508Sora and others walked along the sea floor with Amira leading them. 
5509
5510- Walking in water. 
5511
5512It didn’t feel like walking nor swimming, which caused Shiro to feel curious 
5513at this new sensation, while Sora walked forward while carrying her just
5514the same. 
5515
5516Ino and Izuna, not to mention Miko – they truly were Werebeasts. 
5517
5518They had quickly mastered the act of walking under these circumstances, 
5519and were bounding forward naturally.
5520 
5521Even when in the ocean Jibril still 「Flew around」.
5522 
5523“- Or should I say, Imanity are even more inferior to the idiot Seirens?”
5524 
5525To be perfectly honest, the ones there that were clearly unsuited to
5526moving underwater were obviously Sora and Shiro. 
5527
5528“Before I met my Masters, I would reply 「Yes」 - but to put it more 
5529eloquently, they’re only ranked higher because they have special abilities,
5530but otherwise they’re a really stupid species.” 
5531Jibril spoke all smiles, while Plum continued wearily:
5532 
5533“These people only know how to eat, sleep, have sex and play, nothing
5534more… fish do contain nutrition that can make people smarter, but the
5535fish themselves are rather stupid… isn’t it unbelievable?” 
5536
5537- This world really doesn’t have species that can get along with each other… 
5538Sora thought and looked into the horizon.
5539 
5540“…That’s true… even their representative is someone like this.”
5541 
5542“No… the fact that Amira-sama can speak Imanity is already good
5543enough…” 
5544 
5545Good enough - Sora looked towards Plum sympathetically.
5546 
5547When faced with Sora’s gaze, Plum’s expression immediately turned into
5548that of someone that has accepted his/her fate and spoke: 
5549
5550“Because we’re all in the same boat… I sincerely plead Sora-dono and 
5551others to help them find ways to solve this problem – even the ones that
5552suggested previous methods were Dhampirs… since the Seirens don’t have
5553any sense of urgency, they’re only good at mating… hahah… sigh…” 
5554
5555“…It’s really been hard on you…” 
5556
5557With Amira at the lead, they entered a particularly tall building in Oceande. 
5558
5559During the course of their journey, Sora raised a question that had come 
5560to him suddenly.
5561 
5562“Speaking of mating, Jibril, the Seirens mate with males of other species
5563right?” 
5564
5565“Yes, you’re absolutely right.” 
5566“The sixteen races don’t have any 「Hybrids」 between races?”
5567 
5568- Although Sora and Shiro were only in this world for a short period of time,
5569but regarding things like half-elves commonly seen in fictional worlds -
5570「Hybrids」, they had yet to hear of. 
5571
5572“That’s perfectly normal.” Jibril replied. 
5573
5574“The reason why they don’t exist is because although the sixteen races all 
5575have certain similarities with each other, their souls are completely
5576different.” 
5577
5578- Souls again? 
5579
5580「Souls」 that were yet to be proven to exist in Sora’s original world,
5581appeared to be commonplace knowledge in this one. 
5582
5583Those were probably something like chromosomes, Sora told himself, and 
5584continued:
5585 
5586“But don’t the Seirens mate with other species? Won’t their offspring be
5587Seiren hybrids?” 
5588“No, their offspring will be pure 「Seirens」.”
5589 
5590“Even though they are two different types of souls?”
5591 
5592“It’s just like how the Dhampirs absorb souls by drinking blood, Seirens
5593obtain souls from mating and carry out 「Metamorphosis」, creating their
5594own clones, so their methods of mating are even more ineffective than
5595「Living beings」, sapping the other party dry in the process as well.” 
5596
5597“…That really is lethal.” 
5598
5599“Really? According to textual records – the act itself brings 「Joy 
5600paralleling assumption」.”
5601“So they really go through assumption quite literally… and it’s a 「Journey
5602of no return」.” 
5603
5604But forget it – no matter how you put it. 
5605
5606“Because of that, to produce hybrids – to produce offspring carrying 
5607characteristics of two different species is impossible.”
5608 
5609Sora thought for a moment, and figured – Tet probably let there be
5610「Sixteen Races」 since they can’t produce hybrids. 
5611
5612“- Jibril, is there something on my face?” 
5613
5614Sora noticed that Jibril was staring at him intently. 
5615
5616“I think I’ve told you before that the Flügel aren’t 「Living beings」.” 
5617
5618“Yeah, you said that your species aren’t 「Living beings」 but 「Life」
5619right.” 
5620
5621“Yes, and it’s because of that that souls have no fixed shape, so as long as 
5622you extract a part of someone else’s soul and combine it with mine, you
5623could produce an offspring belonging to the other party’s species – it’s like
5624physical coitus, but in theory it’s still possible to transcend species and
5625produce a hybrid.” 
5626
5627“- I still don’t get what you’re trying to say.” 
5628
5629At this point she lowered her head reverently, moved her halo to the back 
5630of her head, and folded up her wings –
5631 
5632This was a gesture of loyalty to her Master alone, and Jibril clasped her
5633hands together tightly and spoke as though a prayer: 
5634“As long as Master wishes to have a child, the inferior Jibril is willing to do
5635it anytime –“
5636“…Jibril…shut up…” 
5637
5638Shiro’s razor-edged words, forced Jibril to shut her mouth. 
5639
5640“We’re~~~~ here~!” 
5641
5642Sora heard a loud and bright voice all of a sudden, and looked up. 
5643
5644“Sorry to keep you all waiting! This is the Empress’ room~ ♪” 
5645
5646Amira stretched out one hand and pushed open the door slowly – 
5647
5648- Light spilled out from the opening. 
5649
5650The Empress’ room was rather wide, and the carpets and atrium were pink. 
5651
5652Faintly glowing seaweeds were placed on the walls, and what appeared to 
5653be decorative woven patterns lit up the room.
5654 
5655Painted glass was etched onto the tall ceiling, causing sunlight that
5656had reached the floor of the ocean to spill into the room. 
5657
5658Although the faint sunlight seemed unnecessary – as on the glowing 
5659throne right below them, there was a gigantic, beautiful crystal glowing
5660noticeably. 
5661
5662No, it was a pretty-looking transparent imitation crystal… a block of ice.
5663 
5664“-……”
5665 
5666Everyone was speechless when faced with that sight.
5667 
5668At this point Amira solemnly – or at least attempted to act solemnly –
5669announced: 
5670
5671“Now I will introduce to everyone… this is the Empress of the Seirens… 
5672Leila•Lorelei-dono.”
5673- A beautiful woman was sleeping within the block of ice. 
5674
5675Wave-like blue hair fell on her youthful face. 
5676 
5677Her snow-white body was decorated with blinding strips of gold and
5678the lower half of her body had attractive scales on it. 
5679
5680Those scales reflected the light in the room, appearing extremely colorful.
5681 
5682The 「Empress」 ornamented in light and gold and encased within the
5683coffin of ice, silently sat on the bivalve throne with her eyes closed. 
5684
5685Plum and Amira were quietly discussing behind everyone who was 
5686still speechless.
5687 
5688“A-Amira-sama… regarding them awakening the Empress… Sora-dono and
5689the rest said that they wish to challenge everyone here to a game… is that
5690all right?” 
5691
5692Hearing Plum’s words, Amira appeared momentarily troubled, but then 
5693she replied:
5694 
5695“Alright, no problem ☆ But do you have any issues over your side?”
5696 
5697“Nope… s-so I wish to get the help of about thirty people to help with the
5698spells involved.” 
5699
5700“Mm.” Amira nodded her head. 
5701
5702“OK ☆ So I’ll be off to make preparations for Her Majesty’s awakening~ ☆
5703Since you want everyone to use magic at once, you’ll need blood right~
5704Hehe ☆ Amira will go get everyone else, so I’ll leave everything to Plum for
5705now ☆” 
5706
5707“Alright… t-then I’ll make preparations for the spell to enter Her Majesty’s 
5708dream state…”
5709 
5710She took a bow and left the room with Amira.
5711 
5712- But everyone else didn’t seem to have noticed her departure.
5713 
5714They were merely focusing on the block of ice with the Empress
5715sleeping within. 
5716
5717“W-what a beautiful woman…” 
5718
5719Steph seemed to have forgotten that she was a woman herself, and 
5720complimented her passionately.
5721 
5722When faced with her stunning appearance, no elaboration was needed
5723for Ino’s reaction, while Jibril, Miko and even Izuna felt the same way. 
5724
5725Their gazes were blindly attracted to her, but – 
5726
5727“Hmm…? Is she that pretty? Shiro?” 
5728
5729“…I…don’t really understand…” 
5730
5731“”What!~~~?” 
5732
5733Everyone else was stunned by their reactions. 
5734
5735“A-are the both of you not right in the head!? I-if this woman isn’t a 
5736beauty, then who is!?”
5737 
5738“…You’re the one that needs to calm down, she’s not beautiful to the extent
5739where you have to be this shocked right?” 
5740
5741Faced with Steph’s protests, Sora merely spoke with his forehead wrinkled 
5742in impatience.
5743He looked at the Empress once again. 
5744
5745- Leila Lorelei, the Empress of the mermaids asleep within a coffin of ice. 
5746Her appearance was certainly beautiful.
5747 
5748But Sora could confidently say – she was 「Different」.
5749 
5750For example, her beauty was different from Jibril’s that could shame even
5751a work of art. 
5752
5753It was different from Miko’s bewitched, almost holy beauty under the 
5754moonlight as well.
5755 
5756It was different from Izuna’s pure, untainted cuteness as well, not to
5757mention 
5758
5759– 
5760
5761“…? Nii…?” 
5762
5763Sora looked beside him – at his confused-looking sister, and he confirmed 
5764his thoughts.
5765 
5766“- She’s no contest at all, or should I say, even Steph is superior to her?” 
5767“…F-flattering me that obviously, even I’ll get angry you know!?”
5768 
5769“No, what use is there even if I flatter you…”
5770 
5771Sora looked at her in irritation, while Ino patted him on the back. 
5772“Sora-san, no, it’s fine, don’t worry.”
5773 
5774He continued kindly:
5775 
5776“Don’t worry about it at all – impotence is curable, I’ll take you to eat softshelled
5777turtle
5778steamboat
5779next
5780time…”
5781
5782“It’s
5783not
5784like
5785that
5786at
5787all,
5788stop
5789ruining
5790my
5791reputation!!”
5792
5793
5794Sora pointed to the block of ice and yelled. 
5795
5796“Can you all calm down!! I’m not calling her ugly, but when compared to 
5797the likes of Miko-san, Jibril, Izuna and Shiro, is she really something to fawn
5798over!? I mean what I say, everyone here are all supreme beauties!!” 
5799
5800Steph and Ino continued to look at Sora pitifully, but – 
5801
5802Hearing Sora’s words, only Jibril and Miko came back to their senses. 
5803
5804“Amazing, Master… this is what I was referring to earlier, the Seirens’
5805「Ability」.” 
5806
5807“- Ah?” 
5808
5809Miko and Jibril tore their gazes from the block of ice, and Jibril continued: 
5810
5811“The Seirens don’t have special bodies or magic, but the fact that they’ve 
5812managed to survive for this long can be attributed to their greatest and
5813only weapon, which is –“ 
5814
5815Jibril took a deep breath. 
5816
5817“As long as they’re in the water – they have 「The ability to attract
5818anything」.” 
5819
5820“The Seirens are a species that have received the blessings of the water –
5821the reason why they stay in the ocean and cannot leave it is because of the 
5822large amount of Spirits in their bodies… 「Water Spirits」, and they can
5823「Attract」 all other spirits.” 
5824
5825“…Ah…” 
5826
5827“Ah, I see.” 
5828Sora and Shiro nodded their heads in understanding, seeming to have
5829understood what was going on. 
5830
5831Before the 「Ten Oaths」, the Seirens reproduced by consuming males of 
5832other species.
5833 
5834Since they didn’t have any superhuman strength nor any magic and couldn’t
5835leave the sea, how did they survive? 
5836
5837The answer was – they 「Seduce」 others and attract them. 
5838
5839This would explain why they could swim along with the fishes and could 
5840withstand the water pressure of the deep sea without magic.
5841 
5842“Isn’t that like seduction magic?”
5843 
5844“Yes, to put it simply they control the movements of spirits – something like
5845using magnets to attract them, which is the ability of their species… which
5846wasn’t something particularly important originally, but –“ 
5847
5848Jibril glared over at the Empress, and once again averted her eyes. 
5849
5850“But, this mermaid over here – the amount of spirits she possesses can be
5851considered an 「Anomaly」.” 
5852
5853Jibril spoke unhappily as she was unable to resist the Empress’ charms. 
5854
5855While the other person who should’ve known what was going on as well – 
5856Miko scratched her head with a helpless expression on her face.
5857 
5858Changing the subject –
5859 
5860“But… why doesn’t it work on the Masters?”
5861 
5862Jibril asked curiously.
5863“…Hmm…? Jibril said it herself…we don’t have…spirits.” 
5864
5865“Yeah, you did say that, everyone in this world has spirits within them, 
5866but Shiro and I don’t.” 
5867When they had first met, to prove to her that they were from another
5868world, they had let Jibril scan their bodies for spirits. 
5869
5870If their ability was to attract spirits like magnets, the fact that it didn’t work 
5871on Sora and Shiro should have been obvious, but –
5872 
5873“No, as long as there are souls, there should be spirits presents. Maybe
5874Master’s spirits are too faint for me to detect, or maybe your spirits are
5875undetectable – but if so, why would there be no effect – this is strange.” 
5876
5877Jibril muttered to herself, with her interest once again returning to Sora 
5878and Shiro, and she looked at them excitedly.
5879 
5880- While Ino who was standing beside her spoke:
5881 
5882“Or is it simply because Sora-san can’t get erect as a man?”
5883 
5884“You shut the hell up, old man, you only think about the lower halves of
5885the body, don’t you, but I am a man of reason.” 
5886
5887“Sorry to keep you all waiting~!” 
5888
5889- Plum and Amira returned noisily. 
5890
5891Was the spell to enter the Empress’ dream state ready? 
5892
5893The two of them approached the block of ice where the Empress was 
5894sleeping.
5895 
5896“So now we’ll use Plum’s magic to let you all into Her Majesty’s dreams.”
5897That cheerful smile was still on her face. 
5898
5899Amira nonchalantly continued: 
5900
5901“To all of you who wish to awaken the Empress, please 「Swear to the
5902Oaths」 and bet all that you have, then touch the crystal~” 
5903
5904-…… 
5905
5906“Huh? Hey, what did you say?” 
5907
5908Steph broke the silence and asked. 
5909
5910Amira replied with another question in shock: 
5911 
5912“Eh? Is there a problem?”
5913 
5914“Of course there’s a problem, what are you talking about!?”
5915 
5916…Bet all that you have?
5917 
5918Does that mean in the sense where the person’s wealth, identity, freedom,
5919life 
5920
5921– everything is put on the line? 
5922
5923“Is there a need for that? We came to help you upon your request!!” 
5924
5925“Sigh~ Plum, did you bring them here without telling them everything?” 
5926
5927“Um… I’m sorry…” 
5928
5929Amira prodded her cheek with a troubled expression on her face, while 
5930Plum insistently apologized.
5931 
5932While the one that interrupted them was –
5933 
5934“Calm down, Steph, you’re the one that doesn’t understand.”
5935Sora’s tone was calm as always. 
5936
5937Seeing how calm he was, Steph turned around and observed everyone’s 
5938reactions.
5939 
5940Not just Sora and Shiro – but Miko, Jibril, Ino and even Izuna had
5941expressions of understanding on their faces. 
5942
5943“We were invited here to – awaken the Empress through the 
5944「Empress’ Game」, right?”
5945 
5946“The third of 「The Ten Oaths」 states that in games, wagers will be made
5947on what both parties decide to be of value – while the Empress 「Swore on
5948the Oaths」 to hibernate, since the requirements of the 「Game」 to
5949awaken her is to make her fall in love with the other party, a 「Bet」 of
5950equal value is needed for her love – right?” 
5951
5952“Completely right, handsome man, not only your appearance, but your 
5953brain is handsome as well!”
5954 
5955Amira laughed and nodded her head in agreement, but –
5956 
5957Only Sora had noticed, which was when Miko and Shiro revealed thin smiles
5958on their faces. 
5959
5960Steph who hadn’t noticed still couldn’t agree. 
5961
5962“T-that sort of thing is just too weird –“ 
5963
5964- She continued to question them. 
5965
5966“They’re the ones that are on the brink of extinction, we’re here to help, so 
5967why do we have to face that kind of risk!?”
5968 
5969Sora replied as relaxed as ever.
5970“Plum did say earlier, to interfere with relationships and dreams
5971should’ve been impossible under the 「Ten Oaths」, it was only possible
5972because the Empress agreed on it – but her agreement is merely within
5973the game itself.” 
5974
5975- Which is to say – 
5976
5977“If we don’t begin the 「Empress’ Game」, all sorts of spells wouldn’t be 
5978able to be used, so there would be no other way to awaken her, and to
5979obtain the rights to play a game against her, the 「Bet」 she requires is –“ 
5980
5981Sora looked over at Plum and Amira and spoke in a joking tone: 
5982
5983“「If you want my love you must have the drive to sacrifice
5984everything!」… something like that right?” 
5985
5986Steph remained stunned, while everyone else appeared defeated. 
5987
5988Only Amira continued to ramble on. 
5989
5990“Co~rrect~ an~swer! Ah~ I really don’t want to give you to the Empress, 
5991are you sure you don’t want to be with me instead?”
5992 
5993Ignoring Amira, Sora spoke:
5994 
5995“Anyway since we have magic that will allow the Empress to fall in love
5996with us, there shouldn’t be a problem.” 
5997
5998“Y-yes! I can confirm it, leave everything to me!” 
5999
6000“S-something like that – what if the magic doesn’t work!?” 
6001
6002Steph still couldn’t lose her sense of apprehension, but – 
6003“Just leave that to Amira~”
6004Amira spoke clearly: 
6005
6006“Even if you guys can get into the game successfully, the Empress in charge 
6007of the bets is still hibernating, so her possessions will be in my care! If the
6008magic doesn’t work I’ll return everything, so there won’t be any risk ♪” 
6009
6010“No, that sort of verbal promise –“ 
6011
6012Sora interrupted her mid-sentence. 
6013
6014“OK, there’s no problem – let’s begin the game.“ 
6015
6016Steph felt something was amiss. 
6017
6018She felt that something wasn’t right somewhere, why would such high-
6019risk conditions only be mentioned now?
6020 
6021Steph looked at Sora, why didn’t Sora feel any suspicion about the entire
6022affair? 
6023
6024This wasn’t like the usual Sora, to accept such a suspicious-sounding game –
6025 
6026Steph once again surveyed her surroundings.
6027 
6028Aside from her, everyone else didn’t seem to have any queries, and didn’t
6029have anything to say. 
6030
6031(W-what’s going on…? What’s happening here?) 
6032
6033Plum then began explaining the rules of the game. 
6034
6035“So – after all of you bet everything you have, please 「Swear on the
6036Oaths」and touch the block of ice… after which the Dhampirs under the
6037platform and I will cast a spell and lead all of you into Her Majesty’s
6038dream… to perform the 「Love Magic (cheat)」 I’ll follow you as well…” 
6039Plum began planning out the spell accordingly while explaining at the
6040same time: 
6041
6042“Since it’s a dream, the surroundings can be set according to whatever all 
6043of you want… so – Sora-dono will decide right? I will try and go according
6044to Sora-dono’s imagination and construct Her Majesty’s dream
6045correspondingly… no matter the situation – the victory condition remains.” 
6046
6047Sora helped Plum continue her sentence: 
6048
6049“As long as someone makes the Queen fall in love with him and awaken her
6050it will be a 「Victory」, but if you get dumped it will be considered a
6051「Loss」-while the loser will leave the game and give away 「Everything」
6052according to the bet – so we just have to swear to the oaths along the lines
6053of this right?” 
6054
6055“Y-yes… b-but…” 
6056
6057Sora interrupted her in understanding: 
6058
6059“I get it, we have Plum’s love magic (cheat), and even if we lose we can just 
6060get everything back from Amira – that’s what you were planning to say
6061right? Take it easy.” 
6062
6063Sora smiled fearlessly. 
6064
6065Steph sensed something amiss about that smile, however, while Sora 
6066continued:
6067 
6068“With our current lineup and the conditions provided the possibility of
6069us losing is zero, so hurry up and start the game already.” 
6070
6071“A-alright – so Sora-dono, please imagine how you want the dream world 
6072to be like, and then –”
6073 
6074Hearing her words, Sora began imagining it.
6075As long as dating games were mentioned, he wouldn’t make the normal
6076kind. 
6077
6078“Please swear to the oaths!” 
6079
6080“ - 「Aschente」!” 
6081
6082Sora, Shiro, Steph, Jibril, Miko, Ino, Izuna and Plum. 
6083
6084As all of them spoke that single word at once, their surroundings turned 
6085white.
6086
6087
6088
6089
6090 
6091◇◇◇
6092 
6093◆◆◆
6094 
6095◇◇◇
6096 
6097- After which it turned from white to blue instantly.
6098 
6099As though just waking up from a dream, they slowly regained their
6100consciousness. 
6101
6102Throughout their lethargic bodies, blood began circulating normally, 
6103their senses returned to them, and –
6104 
6105“Aaaaahhhpfffffftttt!?”
6106 
6107- They were drowning.
6108 
6109In the middle of the sea, Sora and Shiro, Izuna, Ino and even Miko were
6110being tossed around by the waves. 
6111
6112They could only smell the burning odor of the tides, and pain assaulted 
6113the deepest parts of their nostrils.
6114 
6115As their calm thoughts were being flung into a distance – a video
6116began playing within their subconscious.
6117 
6118“-With every end there is a beginning-“
6119 
6120There were overly flashy special effects, and sound effects that sounded
6121like stars collapsing. 
6122
6123A narrator that sounded like it was reading off a script continued blandly. 
6124
6125“There are meetings and there are separations –“ 
6126
6127“THIS ISN’T THE TIME TO BE PLAYING THE OPENING CREDITS, RIGHT!?” 
6128
6129Sora struggled to raise his head above the water level, and roared angrily. 
6130
6131“Which bloody universe’s version of 「Toki〇 Memorial」 starts with the 
6132protagonist drowning? My heart isn’t exactly beating hard right now!” 
6133[15]
6134
6135 
6136No, their hearts were beating violently.
6137 
6138But Sora didn’t want to use the term 「Heartbeat」 to describe the
6139dying throes of one’s heart when faced with a life-threatening situation. 
6140
6141“Ah, s-sorry… I confused Sora-dono and Her Majesty’s imaginations of 
6142what the dream world should be like, it takes time to create the scene…
6143please wait a while more…” 
6144
6145Thinking closely, this was rather unavoidable. 
6146
6147Since they were able to interfere with the Empress’ dreams, this world
6148couldn’t have a 「Schoolyard setting」 like in Sora’s world. 
6149
6150Of course, Sora’s imagination needed to be combined with the Empress’ 
6151knowledge, and –
6152 
6153“…Nii…I lived…a good life…”
6154“Plum~! My sister’s already giving up on survival, so hurry up already~~!” 
6155
6156Shiro closed her eyes with a blissful expression on her face, while Sora 
6157hugged her and yelled loudly.
6158 
6159“- Ah, ah, the spell is complete, I’ll construct the setting now!”
6160 
6161- In an instant.
6162 
6163The original 「Setting (scene)」 of them drowning in the ocean was
6164removed, and changed immediately like flipping the pages of a book. 
6165
6166The 「Stage」 switched from the ocean itself to the sea floor, and 
6167unnecessary 「Settings」 like breathing were removed.
6168 
6169Like flipping over poker cards face down one by one, various changes to
6170make the game run smoothly were implemented, and the dream world
6171was able to accept 「Unreasonable」 settings. 
6172
6173“- Master, are you alright?” 
6174
6175Hearing Jibril’s loud cries, Sora returned to his senses – not realizing that 
6176he was now on solid ground.
6177 
6178“…T-that was…horrifying…”
6179 
6180In the clear blue ocean, Sora spat out 「a single breath」, and wiped off
6181「the sweat on his brow」. 
6182 
6183Shiro was shivering in fear due to nearly drowning early, and Sora hugged
6184her while complaining dissatisfiedly. 
6185
6186“The game hadn’t even started and we were already facing a death end, 
6187can you please not use that sort of weird plot settings here?”
6188“…I still…hate the ocean…” 
6189
6190“The 「Sea」 that caused the Masters harm… it appears there is a need
6191to remove it completely.” 
6192
6193“Wouldn’t it be fine if you were to just learn to swim…” 
6194
6195At this point, Steph who appeared to be the only relaxed one spoke with her 
6196eyes half open.
6197 
6198But Miko and others beside her – all the Werebeasts in frustration – agreed
6199with Jibril’s words. 
6200
6201“…Yeah, who cares about the ocean, who created these weird puddles 
6202anyway?”
6203 
6204“I have to agree with Jibril-san for once, just let the sea dry off already.”
6205 
6206“Also the sea is so stinky… if only the sea could just disappear and leave
6207behind all the fish.” 
6208
6209Everyone had completely entered the dream, and even though they 
6210were cursing, they were gradually returning to their usual calm selves.
6211 
6212- Sora, Shiro, Steph, Jibril, Miko, Ino and Izuna.
6213 
6214They stepped on the floor individually, and the 「Setting (scene)」 in
6215front of them constructed slowly. 
6216
6217Even though they were at the bottom of the sea the sky could be seen, and 
6218clouds were moving about on the water’s surface.
6219 
6220The uneven terrain was re-flattened, and 「School buildings」 appeared on
6221the sea floor originally filled with rocks and corals. 
6222The schools of tropical fish swimming around them gradually transformed
6223into nameless normal students (NPC). 
6224
6225In the blink of an eye a virtual stage known as the 「Underwater school」 
6226was built. 
6227That was a 「High school」 built in the same style as the other buildings
6228around Oceande – 
6229
6230Glancing at their surroundings, beside Sora – 
6231
6232“What shocks me is that Her Majesty actually knows about 「Schools」…
6233did she read about them in books?” 
6234
6235Plum who had appeared to have snuck into the game (dream) 
6236successfully, spoke.
6237 
6238Understanding the meaning behind Sora’s glance, Plum smiled wearily,
6239and explained bitterly. 
6240
6241“Haha… Oceande doesn’t have anything like schools… what would those 
6242people need to learn anyway.”
6243 
6244As the scene around them stopped changing, Sora and others began
6245showing changes instead. 
6246
6247First – countless signs lit up, entering their field of vision. 
6248
6249“…? What is this?” 
6250
6251Steph wanted to touch the signs that appeared, but grabbed air instead, 
6252and Sora explained:
6253 
6254“That’s the UI (User Interface)… the 「Command Selection Screen」.”
6255- It was exactly like a status screen in a standard dating simulator. 
6256
6257It brought back memories, like the title screen of 「Toki〇 Memorial」,
6258but Sora complained instead: 
6259
6260“…Since you could generate something like this this perfectly, then you 
6261shouldn’t have let us drown in the first place.
6262 
6263“Because this only causes any effect on the players… when the scenes are
6264being constructed, it’s actually the process of combining Sora-dono and Her
6265Majesty’s memories, something that took us quite a lot of effort to do, but –
6266“ 
6267
6268Plum spoke in shock all of a sudden: 
6269 
6270“Where did Sora-dono get your information? I’ve never seen anything
6271like that before.” 
6272
6273Plum didn’t know that Sora came from another world, and indicated 
6274curiosity at how he was able to imagine such things – but Sora merely
6275ignored her. 
6276
6277“Speaking of which since what you’re doing is reflecting the imaginations 
6278of the players, the settings should be rather easy to change right?”
6279 
6280“Ah, yes, because the spell is being constructed… so as long as Sora-dono
6281wishes it anything can be changed.” 
6282
6283Plum continued: 
6284
6285“But one’s appearance, age and sex are unchangeable… please take care.” 
6286
6287- The Empress was hibernating in wait of a 「Prince」. 
6288
6289If she were to fall in love only to realize that the person that had awoken 
6290her was completely different from the character in her dream, like a photo
6291scam – she would probably resume hibernation.
6292They didn’t have any problem with that, but what was important was: 
6293
6294“Since we can change our names, please set my name as 「Ko〇man」.”
6295 
6296“…Nii, setting all base stats…to 573 is cheating…”
6297[16]
6298
6299 
6300Facing his sister’s accusing gaze with her eyes half open, Sora shook his
6301hand while chuckling in denial. 
6302
6303“Using official cheats are technically allowed according to the rules, and also 
6304if this cheat is used as long as you perform any actions you will be afflicted
6305with neurosis, causing you to miss the entire first year and all the flags in
6306it… so it does have its negative side effects!” (TL note: See what I mean by
6307negative stats?) 
6308
6309“…Then Shiro will… use the name「Se〇ponume」.” 
6310[17]
6311
6312 
6313“Um… is there any particular reason for that…?”
6314 
6315As they were conversing – Sora and others’ appearances changed according
6316to Sora’s imagination made reality by the spell. 
6317Sora’s dressing was merely an extra uniformed suit over his usual Tshirt
6318saying
6319「I
6320♥Humans」.
6321
6322
6323“…Oof, this clothing is rather stuffy.” 
6324
6325Wearing a male school uniform as well – a ninety-eight year old man 
6326with bulging muscles spoke beside him.
6327 
6328“…A uniform that bulges tightly due to overly large muscles…I think I’m
6329going to have nightmares tonight.” 
6330
6331Sora spoke while averting his gaze from hell (Ino) over to heaven 
6332(playground) – which was essentially the female members of their
6333posse.
6334Shiro who was standing on the other side of him wasn’t wearing her usual 
6335full black uniform – but instead a brightly colored female uniform.
6336 
6337- Maybe because it was mixed in with the Empress’ impressions as well, it
6338was a sailor uniform slightly more revealing than Sora had expected it to
6339be. 
6340
6341And around her were Izuna, Jibril and Miko who were wearing the same 
6342uniforms –
6343 
6344“…Miko-san’s sailor uniform, really does look amazing…”
6345 
6346“Do you have something to say about it?”
6347 
6348Stroking her long golden hair, Miko spoke while wearing a sailor
6349uniform identical to Shiro’s. 
6350
6351Her twin tails lifted her skirt slightly as they shook about, and her 
6352beautiful legs underneath were extremely attractive, but –
6353 
6354“…Miko-san, how old are you?”
6355 
6356“Didn’t anyone tell you that asking for a lady’s age is extremely rude?”
6357 
6358“Oh, right… speaking of which the one that created the Eastern Federation
6359was Miko-san right?” 
6360
6361Miko’s ears twitched slightly. 
6362“You kept saying things like since you were matured or whatever, Izuna’s
6363eight years old but she’s already matured, while the Eastern Federation
6364prospered rapidly within fifty years (half a century) – even when you leave
6365out the time taken to take care of the entire Eastern Federation, you at least
6366have to be about fifty-eight –“ 
6367
6368“Let me give you a piece of good news OK? Imanity (bald monkey).
6369Werebeasts – especially in their 「Blood Devastation」 form, age
6370extremely slowly. 
6371
6372Miko interrupted Sora’s accurate deduction, and spoke with a dazzling 
6373smile.
6374 
6375- After which a dangerous smile appeared on her face, and she spoke
6376clearly: 
6377
6378“If you dare to call me 「Auntie」, you know what will happen, don’t you ♥” 
6379
6380“- Phew… and I was the one about to tell Miko-san some good news.” 
6381
6382Sora met her smile head on, and replied: 
6383
6384“Looks are everything! Miko-san gives off an air like she’s older than she 
6385actually is because of her actions and tone of voice, but appearance-wise
6386you look no older than a beautiful twenty-year-old lady –which means
6387actual age is no more than a title, which is what we Imanity believe.” 
6388
6389“…That is what you believe.” 
6390
6391Despite clearly hearing Steph’s words, Sora excellently ignored her, and 
6392pointed beside him.
6393 
6394“Also there’s someone here who is 「Over six thousand years old」, so
6395there’s nothing to worry about right?” 
6396
6397“Ah, Master, to be precise I’m 「Six thousand four hundred and seven」 
6398years old.”
6399 
6400Jibril who was looking at her garb curiously since earlier, replied with a
6401smile on her face. 
6402
6403Her shirt was lifted up slightly by the wings on her waist, revealing a 
6404short snatch of bellybutton, while the rest can be omitted.
6405On the other hand – 
6406“…Speaking of which, may I ask a question?” “Hmm – 
6407is there a problem? Steph.”
6408 
6409“Why am I the only female along with you and Ino – that’s wearing male
6410clothes?” 
6411
6412- That was true. 
6413
6414Shiro, Jibril, Miko and Izuna. 
6415
6416They were all wearing sailor uniforms, but only Steph was – wearing a 
6417male uniform identical to Sora and Ino’s.”
6418 
6419Sora nodded his head meaningfully, and explained his reasoning.
6420 
6421“Good question – this is what is known as 「To kill a general, first shoot
6422his horse」.” 
6423
6424“…What?” 
6425
6426Sora spoke with a serious expression, and everyone’s eyes were on him. 
6427
6428“- First, there are 「Two」 reasons why I didn’t let everyone wear
6429male clothing.” 
6430
6431Sora continued while lifting up a single finger. 
6432
6433“First, if we’re going to conquer the female lead, I want to have help from 
6434her friends – the girls.”
6435 
6436“…You really say all these dastardly things without hesitation.”
6437 
6438Miko spoke her thoughts on everyone else who was glaring at Sora coldly.
6439However Sora ignored her and raised another finger: 
6440
6441“Secondly – I considered the possibility that a trap like the Empress
6442「Never was interested in men」 in the first place might exist.” 
6443
6444“…I did say earlier that the Empress was looking for a fertile male…?” 
6445
6446“There’s insufficient evidence to prove that.” 
6447
6448Sora rebutted Plum who objected while staring daggers at him as well, 
6449and continued: 
6450“Next up is the reason why I let specifically Steph wear male clothing –
6451Steph has strong communication skills, so she can be our scout for
6452information.” 
6453
6454If they were only looking at political power, Miko could be a stand-in for 
6455her as well.
6456 
6457But according to Sora’s instinct, Steph was the correct choice as she could
6458make friends easily. 
6459
6460“I want a male comrade that has the social skills and ability to collect 
6461information like Saotome-kun – but…” 
6462[18]
6463
6464 
6465Sora turned to Steph and sighed.
6466 
6467“…But compared to Saotome, you’re more of a… someone like Ijuuin…”
6468 
6469[19]
6470 
6471“- What? I don’t really understand…”
6472 
6473- A redhead with rather proper looks.
6474 
6475She looked like a rather high-classed handsome teenager – the maledressed
6476Steph
6477tilted
6478her
6479head
6480in
6481confusion.
6482
6483Her
6484attitude
6485was
6486nonchalant
6487as she
6488hadn’t
6489particularly
6490noticed
6491her
6492
6493appearance, but she was proficient in both physical ability and studies,
6494even being a decent homemaker. 
6495
6496She had social skills, a drive to get things done – and had a set of 
6497determined blue eyes.
6498 
6499And deep in her eyes, one could even get a glimpse at her overwhelming
6500gentleness and resilient personality – she was quite literally a model
6501teenager. 
6502
6503- To be honest. 
6504
6505Sora wanted to punch her, as she was the enemy of unpopular people 
6506(the world) – once again glancing at her riajuu appearance, Sora sighed. 
6507[20]
6508
6509 
6510“…Ijuuin? Who’s that?” 
6511“…It’s first-gen… don’t bother about it…” 
6512[21]
6513
6514 
6515“…Speaking of which, how about we not bother about Gramps over here
6516and just let Steph go talk to the girls?” 
6517
6518“What? No, for me to go talk to the girls – and about that… S-Sora and I –“
6519 
6520“…Ah, it appears the spell is complete.”
6521
6522
6523Part 4
6524“Hmm, so let’s play the opening cutscene all over again – after which I’ll 
6525infiltrate the Empress’ subconscious.”
6526 
6527Following Plum’s announcement, a giant screen appeared in the middle of
6528the air. 
6529
6530The badly made advertising clip that had just played in their minds once 
6531again made an encore accompanied with relaxing background music.
6532 
6533Following the narrator’s descriptions, after photos of the school buildings
6534and classrooms were shown on screen, the image cut to the courtyard,
6535where a giant madder-red colored piece of coral that seemed to have
6536branches extending in all directions was shown with the camera angle
6537slightly tilted. 
6538
6539The narrator explained calmly. 
6540
6541“Marinal Kagayaki High… there is a legend that as long as one confesses 
6542under the magical coral, one will acquire 「True Love」.” 
6543[22]
6544
6545 
6546Hearing these recycled words, Sora complained with his eyes half-opened:
6547 
6548“…Hey, I wouldn’t care if it was like a magical tree or something, but what
6549the hell is a magical coral…?” 
6550
6551To confess under an ancient tree was somewhat understandable. 
6552
6553Confessing in the midst of bells ringing or on a slope with Sakura 
6554blossoms blowing around would be acceptable as well.
6555 
6556But no matter how you think about it, 「Under the magical coral」 just
6557seems a bit too over-the-top, don’t you think? 
6558“Even if you say that I can’t do anything about it… there aren’t any trees in
6559the ocean…” 
6560
6561- Speaking of which stuff like corals would probably look disgusting up 
6562close.
6563 
6564The opening cutscene continued to play, disregarding Sora’s inner
6565thoughts and protests. 
6566
6567- After a while. 
6568
6569The boring narration ended, and pop music began playing. 
6570
6571Under the pink-colored 「Magical coral」, a mermaid with blue hair
6572flowing along with the waves appeared. 
6573
6574- The empress. 
6575
6576The uniform-wearing empress – Leila swam quietly under the giant red 
6577coral as though dancing.
6578 
6579Her colorful uniform covered up her firm body that was shaking from side
6580to side unpredictably in the water brought out her natural sexiness and
6581charisma even more, and the very action of her scaly tail sticking out from
6582her short skirt while flapping about in the water was attractive. 
6583
6584The Empress’ eyes carried a hint of melancholy, and she stretched her 
6585hand out to the sky as though earnestly waiting for something –
6586 
6587“La - ♪”
6588 
6589She began singing.
6590 
6591- Upon hearing her voice, everyone simultaneously inhaled sharply.
6592“Ah…!” 
6593
6594“Oh, this is… she really is a beauty, even her voice is exceptional.” 
6595Steph and Ino began praising her.
6596 
6597An Empress that could bewitch anyone through a single glance.
6598 
6599Her beautiful voice brought a sensation to the listener’s soul that was
6600almost like taking drugs. 
6601…Except for Sora and Shiro.
6602 
6603Sora and Shiro stared at the screen in boredom.
6604 
6605“Even I’m beginning to think that there’s something wrong with our 
6606taste…” Ignoring her voice for now –
6607 
6608The song and video that was playing were completely mismatched with
6609her sensual actions and melancholic expression. 
6610
6611But before that, the Empress wasn’t suitable to wear sailor uniforms at 
6612all because she’s too sexy.
6613 
6614It was like a thirty-year-old woman (laugh) pretending to be a female
6615high school student – 
6616
6617“Well it’s true that everyone’s preferences are different… but you want me 
6618to conquer her?”
6619 
6620I can’t seem to get excited… Sora took a small breath.
6621
6622
6623
6624■「The First Day」■ 
6625
6626- All of a sudden, the words 「The First Day」 appeared in front of
6627everyone. 
6628Sora and Shiro were undoubtedly already used to it, but Plum continued
6629to explain it to the others. 
6630
6631“Um, I believe a few 「Commands」 should have appeared in front of 
6632everyone, if you use those you can perform specific actions… like giving
6633presents and things like that.” 
6634
6635Hearing Plum’s explanation, Sora tilted his head in curiosity instead. 
6636
6637“It’s like that in theory, but this is a realistic romance game right? So 
6638there shouldn’t be a hidden affection meter…”
6639 
6640“…Nii.”
6641 
6642As Sora was complaining, Shiro quickly passed something to him.
6643 
6644“…Command…present…Nii, did your affection gauge rise?” 
6645
6646Shiro’s eyes appeared to be expecting something, while Sora smiled 
6647bitterly and replied:
6648 
6649“Sorry, sis, my affection for you is already at maximum levels, so even if
6650you try nothing will –“ 
6651
6652“So Master, if you allow me to, I will –“ 
6653
6654Jibril gave him a gift as well. 
6655
6656Plum looked away from them and continued her expression. 
6657
6658“Also…among the commands displayed, there should be two heart shapes 
6659as well.”
6660 
6661Everyone carried out individual confirmations and found them
6662almost immediately.
6663It was in the lower-half corner of a screen with multiple signs on it. 
6664
6665There was a normal heart shape and another heart shape with a 
6666「+」marked on it.
6667 
6668“That heart is the confession command…it’s up to you how you wish to
6669confess, but if you choose this and get 「Dumped」, it will be regarded as
6670a 「Loss」… while the one with a + on it is…” 
6671
6672“Your 「Love Magic」 right – a cheat command right, OK, I think I’ve got 
6673it… yep.”
6674 
6675Sora had figured out the system since earlier, and turned towards Ino.
6676 
6677“So Gramps, since you’ve married thirty wives, the amount of people
6678you’ve slept with must be more than that right? So how about you use
6679those skills that even Ka〇 Taka can’t beat to quickly conquer the Empress
6680and get her heart.” 
6681[23]
6682
6683 
6684“The way you put it is rather displeasing…”
6685 
6686Ino wrinkled his forehead, but after that –
6687 
6688“I’m looking forward to your lover’s skills that seem to be your pride,
6689Hatsuse Ino.” 
6690
6691“…Good luck Grandpa, des.” 
6692 
6693“Yes! As Miko-sama orders…!”
6694 
6695Hearing the two women’s encouraging words, Ino replied respectfully
6696and turned towards Sora. 
6697
6698“…But Sora-san, I was quietly listening to you since earlier, all that stuff 
6699about shooting generals and horses, helpers, scouts for information and
6700others
6701seems pretty hard to comprehend.” 
6702
6703“…What?” 
6704
6705Sora replied with his forehead wrinkled, and Ino shrugged his shoulders 
6706and continued:
6707 
6708“…Could it be that Sora-san believes that ignoring women’s preferences and
6709forcing one’s own preferences onto them – even stooping to the point of
6710changing one’s appearance to suit them is 「Love」?” 
6711
6712…He got me, Sora thought. 
6713
6714“To be precise, that’s how it is in a 「Romance Game」.” 
6715
6716Noticing that Sora was unable to answer, Ino looked at him solemnly. 
6717
6718“Phew… so that’s how it is, it was a good idea after all to leave it to me after 
6719all, it seems that just like how being good at fighting games doesn’t make
6720one a good fighter, mastering romance games doesn’t allow one to talk
6721about real romance and love.” 
6722
6723- He was right, but Sora somehow felt angry as he realized that his self-
6724confidence probably came from the fact that he’d slept with many
6725women. 
6726
6727“Sora-san do you know why you’re a virgin – an unpopular, antisocial, 
6728incurable man now?”
6729 
6730“…Old man, don’t make me get Jibril to teleport you to the ends of the
6731universe.” 
6732
6733Ino didn’t appear to be the slightest bit threatened by Sora’s devilish glare.
6734 
6735“Some say that 「Love is the art of reading hearts」- if so, why can’t Sorasan
6736do it?”
6737
6738“…Hmm?”
6739
6740- If it was 「Reading hearts」. 
6741
6742Then Sora who was way above himself (Ino) should be able to do it. 
6743
6744Ino’s words carried absolute confirmation at Sora’s ability with it as 
6745well, leaving Sora speechless.
6746 
6747“I see, there are many different ways to love, but… the end result is always
6748to 「Convey one’s feelings to the other」, and –“ 
6749
6750Ino stared at Sora sharply. 
6751
6752- His eyes didn’t carry any hint of condescension. 
6753
6754It wasn’t a look of sarcasm, hate, pity, nor underestimation. 
6755
6756It was a look that Sora – knew all too well. 
6757
6758With the look in his eyes that Sora never wanted to see again in his 
6759original world – Ino continued:
6760 
6761“The words spoken by a liar that lives on mountains of lies do not have
6762the power to convey one’s feelings at all!” 
6763
6764No doubt about it, it was – a look of 「Distrust」. 
6765
6766“But, it’s true, if it really is about reading hearts, there’s only one way, 
6767which is –“
6768 
6769Ino spoke while glancing towards his own command screen.
6770
6771“「Seize the upper hand」.” 
6772
6773Unhesitatingly choosing the 「Confession Command」- Ino dashed
6774forward. 
6775
6776“”Eh-!?”” 
6777
6778Leaving behind Sora and others who were still frozen in shock – 
6779
6780Using his physical ability as a Werebeast to the fullest, Ino launched a 
6781surprise attack with a blinding speed. 
6782His footsteps even caused loud booming noises, while his eyes were
6783focused only one thing. 
6784
6785Which was the Empress that was about to step into the school gates – Leila.
6786 
6787Ino yelled at the figure that was being surrounded by several NPCs:
6788 
6789“The pretty lady over there! Please wait!”
6790 
6791His voice was like a knight reporting his name on the battlefield, and
6792hearing his booming voice, the Empress turned around slowly. 
6793
6794Her sapphire colored eyes spotted Ino – and she replied: 
6795
6796“Are you talking about me…?” 
6797
6798- Those few words alone were like a force of nature. 
6799
6800“…! Of course!” 
6801
6802For a moment, Ino forgot he was in a game. 
6803
6804Every word, sentence, action, and smile of the beauty in front of him 
6805was melting his soul.
6806 
6807But he shook his head in self-warning, and focused his strength at his
6808abdomen. 
6809[24]
6810
6811- There wouldn’t be a problem if he was to fall in love with her, or more 
6812appropriately, he needed to fall in love with her.
6813 
6814He clenched his jaw and focused his energy with a determined look in his
6815eyes. 
6816
6817- But he couldn’t be consumed; he needed to consume the other – 
6818
6819“Oh beautiful lady, please forgive me for interrupting you suddenly, if 
6820it’s convenient for you – I would like you to hear a few words of mine.”
6821 
6822“Ah – and what would those words be?”
6823 
6824The Empress smiled sweetly.
6825 
6826Ino’s heart felt like it was being grabbed onto tightly just from those words.
6827 
6828He wanted to forget everything – at least, he was tempted to.
6829 
6830The Empress’ eyes, the Empress’ voice, the Empress’ expression, her snowwhite
6831neck.
6832
6833
6834The angle at which her fingers touched her breasts unintentionally, 
6835the shadows created by her waving hair –
6836 
6837Those things, he considered them priceless treasures…!
6838 
6839- Ino thought, there was a possibility –
6840 
6841The previous challengers were all consumed by the Empress’ beauty and
6842were unable to even confess. 
6843
6844She had that standard of beauty, a radiance that was almost violent in 
6845nature.
6846 
6847In conclusion, in front of this woman, a normal young man wouldn’t even be
6848able to open his mouth. 
6849
6850But Ino… replied with a smile. 
6851
6852- He wasn’t at ease; he was already at his limit. Love isn’t 
6853about reading hearts – yes, love is a battle. The action of
6854「Laughing」 was an act of war. 
6855
6856- It originated from how beasts would bare their jaws at their pray. 
6857Ino calmly, carefully, solemnly kneeled on the ground.
6858 
6859- Love.
6860 
6861He raised his two palms towards the heavens and beat them on the ground
6862violently as though in prayer. 
6863
6864- The so-called love. 
6865
6866He looked at the girl with a powerful gaze – it wasn’t a threat, but a silent 
6867declaration of war.
6868 
6869- Must be won with one’s own hands.
6870 
6871  
6872He clasped his hands that were plastered onto the floor onto his knees, and
6873pressed his forehead sharply down onto the concrete, head, bones and all…! 
6874
6875- It was … Impeccable. A 
6876glorious –
6877 
6878“Please! I beg you to spend a passionate night with me -!”
6879 
6880- He kneeled and kowtowed.
6881 
6882-…
6883 
6884“”-What!?””
6885 
6886- Whose voices were those?
6887 
6888Or were those possibly everyone’s voices?
6889 
6890Sora and others didn’t need mentioning, as even the Empress was frozen
6891in shock, however Ino continued, ignoring everyone else! 
6892
6893“Since the first time I saw you, my heart has been boiling like lava, 
6894please look! My sword is hard and erect like steel -!!”
6895 
6896“Eek…”
6897 
6898The Empress breathed sharply, and backed away continuously with a
6899flustered expression. 
6900
6901While Ino increased his volume, and pressed his attack…! 
6902
6903“Oh, please forgive me, dear Empress of the ocean! It’s all because you’re 
6904too beautiful! Since the first time I saw you, I’ve been having this
6905overflowing,
6906unstoppable urge to hold you and penetrate you! Please forgive my 
6907burning feelings!”
6908 
6909“It’s a straight-up kowtowing strategy that doesn’t give the other party time
6910to back down at all - !?” 
6911
6912Sora felt a sense of immense trepidation. 
6913Was this the sure-win tactic of a man that has married thirty women!?
6914 
6915As the surrounding atmosphere dropped to absolute zero temperatures,
6916Ino’s passionate kowtowing strategy was still being carried out in full. 
6917
6918“Please! I beg you! Please carry out intercourse with me! Please have 
6919passionate intercourse with me!”
6920 
6921“Eh? No, wait, um… that…”
6922 
6923Since she had begun hibernating, the Empress’ dreams had been
6924interrupted countless times, and she had received countless confessions
6925as well. 
6926
6927Even if she was really an Empress that had rejected all sorts of men, it 
6928was probably her first time receiving such a direct confession. She
6929hurriedly attempted to run towards the school blocks. 
6930
6931But -! 
6932
6933“Please wait!” 
6934
6935(Grasps) 
6936
6937Ino’s muscular hand grabbed onto the Empress’ arm, stopping her in 
6938her tracks.
6939 
6940“No, hey, let go -!”
6941“I’m not going to! I won’t let go! I want you to feel the beating of my heart, 
6942the burning heat of my loins! My body is old and insignificant, but I will
6943make you satisfied even if it costs me my life!!” 
6944
6945“Noooooooooo!?” 
6946
6947- They were speechless. 
6948
6949It was literally a crime – no, what was occurring in front of them was an act 
6950of complete pervertedness.
6951 
6952If a temperature below absolute zero existed, Sora and others
6953spectating would definitely feel like they were in it. 
6954
6955“…No, but…” 
6956Sora who was watching the events unfold from a safe distance asked
6957Miko nervously: 
6958
6959“Did that old man use this method to get himself thirty wives…?” 
6960
6961“…No, I don’t know, why are you asking me?” 
6962
6963“No, unless those methods when used on Werebeasts actually…” 
6964
6965(How could it possibly work!? I’m not even there and I feel like refusing 
6966myself!!)
6967 
6968“No, wait, let go of me! I said let go of me!!”
6969 
6970The Empress began crying out mournfully, and finally managed to shake
6971off Ino’s grasp. 
6972
6973After which she turned, cut through the crowds and disappeared into 
6974the school blocks with her tail flailing about.
6975“Please wait, Empress! EMPREESSSSSS!!” 
6976
6977Ah…ah… - 
6978
6979Ah… - 
6980
6981…Ah – 
6982
6983Ino’s mournful cries echoed in the clear blue ocean – and disappeared 
6984suddenly.
6985 
6986The rejected Ino lay motionless, appearing extremely depressed.
6987 
6988- Seeing his current state, everyone else had the word ‘Disappointment’
6989engraved in their hearts. 
6990
6991“…He can’t make it anymore right?” 
6992
6993“…” 
6994
6995- No one bothered to rebut Sora’s words. 
6996
6997“…B-but that doesn’t count as being dumped yet, doesn’t it?” 
6998 
6999Ino did kneel down in pursuit of her love earlier, but the Empress didn’t
7000officially reject his love. 
7001
7002So according to the system, the game – the dream should still continue…
7003 
7004Regarding Sora’s question, Plum replied somewhat hesitantly:
7005 
7006“…Before that, I think the real problem is whether that sort of action should
7007be considered as a confession or not…” 
7008
7009Hearing Plum’s words, Sora nodded and said: 
7010“- Anyway, let’s have some fun normally, select command…「Leave the
7011school」.” 
7012
7013“…Nod.” 
7014
7015“…Why did you people choose this setting anyway?” 
7016
7017However, no one bothered to answer Miko’s question… 
7018
7019
7020
7021■「The Second Day」■ 
7022
7023Immediately after they woke up, the date and the 「Attend
7024School」 commands appeared in front of them. 
7025
7026As they selected the command, the scene immediately changed. 
7027
7028When they returned to their senses – Sora was already walking on the way 
7029to school with Shiro.
7030 
7031The activities that they had all done so far – eat breakfast, change into
7032their uniforms, get out of the house. 
7033
7034 
7035Those were completely shortened out, and their memories of actually
7036doing those tasks merely remained fuzzily in their heads. 
7037
7038“…Nii, good morning…” 
7039
7040“Good morning…since in this game we’re under the 「Sibling Setting」 as
7041well, we’re allowed to be together from morning.” 
7042
7043Not to mention that they were set to be in the same grade. 
7044 
7045An eighteen-year-old and an eleven-year-old in the same grade – it could
7046be somewhat dismissed as a result of continuous grade-hopping.
7047Just like that, as Sora, Shiro and the NPCs were going to school together,
7048someone called out to Sora from behind. 
7049
7050“- Ah, Sora, g-good morning.” 
7051
7052“Oh…?” 
7053
7054Turning around, Steph (male-dressed) was standing behind him. 
7055
7056Sora raised one hand in response to her greeting, and then spoke with 
7057his forehead wrinkled:
7058 
7059“…Good morning, speaking of which the fact that you’re dressed like that
7060but you’re still speaking like a girl is somewhat disgusting.” 
7061
7062“Didn’t you set this yourself…” 
7063
7064Steph’s eyes narrowed in a devilish glare, and she took out a thick stack of 
7065papers from her bag and passed them to Sora.
7066 
7067“…What is all this?”
7068 
7069“It’s the Empress’ personal information in this game and also her
7070contacts… I’ve also done some slight research on the characters that may
7071be acting as her friends in-game.” 
7072
7073“- Eh? You’ve already done research!?” 
7074
7075Sora’s eyes widened in shock as he began flipping through the information. 
7076
7077Steph did say it was merely rough research, but what Sora saw was
7078「Information」 regarding tens upon tens of characters from their
7079contacts to their hobbies. 
7080
7081- To have such staggering amount of information in only the second day of 
7082school.
7083 
7084She had a speed that even Saotome would envy, and Sora continued halfsuspiciously:
7085
7086
7087“How did you research about this sort of thing?” 
7088 
7089Steph widened her eyes as well in response, and replied nonchalantly:
7090 
7091“It’s exactly the same as a 「Social Network」, as long as you get close to a
7092few of her attendants, you get all their information, including things from
7093interests, dislikes, injuries, even relationships they’re in. Also there
7094apparently won’t be any consequences for talking about private matters
7095here unlike in the real world.” 
7096
7097- Cheh! 
7098
7099“What was that for!? Why did you go ‘cheh’ at me earlier!?” 
7100
7101Her communication abilities were stunning. 
7102
7103Although it had achieved the effects he had intended it to, but Sora felt 
7104anger first instead of gratitude at her superhuman social skills.
7105 
7106“Ah, I’m sorry, it was an accident… I-I’ll be using these as references,
7107thanks for everything.” 
7108
7109Sora rallied once more and began comforting her. 
7110
7111“- A-about that, speaking of which, just now, earlier, that… did the
7112「Affection Gauge」 rise?” 
7113
7114Steph (male according to the settings) asked while twiddling her fingers 
7115shyly.
7116 
7117“…What?”
7118“No, the gift command earlier – “”””Steph-sama♪”””” – Ah!?” 
7119
7120A flirtatious voice sounded from behind her, and Steph let out a cry, 
7121falling onto the floor.
7122 
7123As she hurriedly turned, she saw a group of girls with heart shapes in
7124their eyes struggling and fighting amongst each other to get to her. 
7125
7126“Steph-sama! Let’s walk to school together!” 
7127
7128“Hey you, don’t ask so chummy with her! Here, Steph-sama, this way –“ 
7129
7130“Eh, wait…I haven’t finished – someone, someone help me ahhhhhhhh -!?” 
7131
7132Upon seeing Steph being dragged away by a group of girls, Sora responded 
7133by half-closing his eyes. 
7134
7135“…Just let yourself be chased to the ends of the earth.” 
7136
7137He let out a small choking noise, then left her behind and resumed his walk 
7138to school.
7139 
7140As he reached the school gates, he noticed Ino was still there in a
7141kowtowing position. 
7142
7143 
7144
7145■「The Third Day」■ 
7146
7147Izuna used the 「Gift」 command on Sora. 
7148
7149What she gave was a can of mackerel. 
7150
7151However Izuna was drooling while staring at the can of mackerel, and 
7152she appeared to be undergoing an internal struggle.
7153 
7154Sora couldn’t help but consider giving up and going on the Izuna route
7155instead, but he managed to control his urge. 
7156
7157- In school, he bumped into the Empress and Steph at the school gates, was 
7158there a flag being triggered?
7159 
7160But Sora didn’t know her yet, so he ignored her and continued towards
7161the classroom. 
7162
7163Immediately as he reached – probably because she was set in the same 
7164grade as well – Plum walked over in a female uniform.
7165 
7166“U-um… why is everyone ignoring the Empress…?”
7167 
7168“Because we need to begin our assault only after we achieve the stats
7169required to conquer the character in order to easily gain affection
7170points.” 
7171
7172“…Early game…except for scripted flags…ignore everything…focus on 
7173raising stats…”
7174 
7175Shiro and Sora raised their opinions with focused expressions, while
7176Plum looked somewhat troubled. 
7177 
7178“…That’s how it works…?”
7179 
7180Ino was still kowtowing at the school gates.
7181
7182
7183
7184■「The Fourth Day」■
7185
7186Miko used the 「Ask on a Date」 command – on Sora. 
7187
7188He was stopped on the way to school, and Miko took the initiative. 
7189
7190“I’m pretty interested in this 「Sakura Coral Park」 set in the spring
7191season, so would you like to go together?” 
7192She appeared to be reciting lines off of the UI (User Interface), but it was the
7193first time Sora had heard of the place. 
7194
7195“Eh? What’s that? Where did you see that?” 
7196
7197“Really, you hadn’t noticed? There’s an icon shaped like a small book in the 
7198lower right corner.”
7199 
7200“Ah… really. The Oceande Messenger – I actually fell behind Miko-san in a
7201romance game of all things…” 
7202
7203“Heheh… so? Could it be that you’re not interested in what Sakura corals 
7204may be?”
7205 
7206“Fine, I’ll go, Shiro can follow along right?”
7207 
7208“…Mm, I want to… see.”
7209 
7210“Since we’re going, let’s invite everyone else as well, Izuna, Jibril, Steph –
7211does Plum want to go?” 
7212
7213“Master, there’s a 「Make Bento」 command under the 「Hobbies」 
7214command section, I’ll make some for our visit.”
7215 
7216“…Um, are you sure all of you haven’t forgotten what we’re here for…?”
7217 
7218Ino was still kowtowing at the school gates.
7219
7220
7221
7222
7223 
7224■「The Fifth Day」■
7225 
7226Today was the day that they were to select their clubs, and everyone chose
7227the go-home club. 
7228[25]
7229
7230 
7231Only Steph joined the students’ council, and for some reason she was
7232glaring hatefully at Sora.
7233- After school, Shiro was tugging on his sleeve, and he looked up – 
7234
7235“…Nii, over there.” 
7236
7237She pointed at the Empress that appeared to be going home as well. 
7238
7239“A go-home flag…?” 
7240
7241“I think so, forget it, it’s too troublesome, let’s go home.” 
7242
7243“…「Going home together…if anyone were to spread rumors… it would be
7244very embarrassing」.” 
7245
7246“Hey sis, can you not say that line again?” 
7247[26]
7248
7249 
7250- Memories from his past awakened.
7251 
7252The other party was his childhood friend, and as he nonchalantly invited
7253her to walk home together, he heard that line instead. 
7254
7255“Thinking about it, I think that was the time when I stopped trusting people.
7256 
7257Plum appeared to be hurriedly saying something, but Sora ignored her
7258and replied with “OK yeah it’s very funny” dismissively. 
7259
7260Ino was still kowtowing at the school gates. 
7261
7262
7263
7264■「The Tenth Day」■ 
7265
7266They were having a meeting in preparation for the sports meet next month. 
7267
7268Since it would probably end up with Jibril performing alone, they reached 
7269an unanimous vote that they would select the leave school command
7270immediately after classes ended. 
7271As they were stepping out of the school gates, Sora finally tried to use the
7272「Date Command」. 
7273 
7274- And his target was Miko.
7275
7276“Ah~ um, how about we all 「Go shopping」 together?” 
7277
7278“Why do you sound like you’re reading from a script?” 
7279
7280“Nah, it’s just a habit.” 
7281
7282“Speaking of which wouldn’t it be no fun if we were to go shopping without 
7283having anything to buy?”
7284 
7285“…I think there’s…a food fest…”
7286 
7287“Alright, let’s go, there should be wine right? Ah, does Izuna want to come
7288along as well?” 
7289
7290“As long as there’s meat or fish then definitely, des.” 
7291
7292“Ah, I’ll definitely go as well, Master.” 
7293
7294He had planned to invite Steph, but possibly because she was busy with 
7295council activities, they didn’t see her after school at all.
7296 
7297- Although they spent all their 「Money」, everyone got to try pretty
7298delicious food. 
7299
7300Ino was still – never mind. 
7301
7302
7303
7304■「The Fifteenth Day」■ 
7305
7306“- Everyone, do we really need to go to school?” 
7307
7308Hearing Sora’s words, everyone realized something. 
7309After which their actions were very fast-paced.
7310 
7311Everyone began making plans in order to try out all the dating spots
7312within their reachable radius. 
7313
7314Sora and Shiro dressed up carefully, wore dress suits and went to their 
7315meeting point, but –
7316 
7317“…Disappointed…”
7318 
7319Shiro sagged her shoulders in disappointment, while Sora helped her ask
7320her question. 
7321
7322“…Miko-san… allow me to ask, why are you wearing that?” 
7323
7324Miko who had arrived on time was wearing a tracksuit and a pair of 
7325slippers, appearing particularly pathetic.
7326 
7327It was no different from an old man’s home clothing, but Miko shrugged
7328her shoulders. 
7329
7330“Because there aren’t any straw shoes or skirts or pants. Although these 
7331may look cheap, they’re easy to move about in, and they’re comfy as well.
7332Shouldn’t I be the one asking you why you’re wearing suits and dresses off
7333for a hike?” 
7334
7335“Hey Jibril, could you tell me why you’re wearing a swimsuit over?” 
7336
7337“Eh? Because there was a clothing selection, so I just chose something that 
7338was the closest to what I usually wear.”
7339 
7340…On another note, according to Steph who was still going to school
7341diligently, Ino was really still… never mind. 
7342
7343 
7344
7345■「The Twentieth Day」■ 
7346- Everyone was just about bored of playing.
7347 
7348On a spur of the moment, Sora attempted to actually begin going to school.
7349 
7350Immediately after that, he noticed that for some reason a rumor had spread
7351that 「Sora hurt Steph (male)」. 
7352
7353In order to find out what exactly was going on, he went to find Steph during 
7354recess, and –
7355 
7356“…!”
7357 
7358Upon seeing Steph, she glared at him fiercely and ran off. 
7359“What’s going on here?”
7360 
7361“…The game’s…like this in the first place…” 
7362The fact that 「Bombs」 would appear without the player doing anything
7363was really the way the game was designed. 
7364[27]
7365
7366 
7367But why would the bomb icon – appear on a male (by setting only)? 
7368“Hey, Plum, there seems to be a bug with the system of the game.”
7369 
7370“…Compared to that, you’ve really forgotten the main aim of the game,
7371haven’t you?” 
7372
7373Sora complained to her that the game should be properly debugged. 
7374Plum looked to the horizon and let out a long, sad sigh instead.
7375 
7376- While – Ino, was still, kowtowing, at the school gates…
7377
7378
7379
7380■「The Twenty-fifth Day」■ 
7381Nothing much happened.
7382 
7383It was almost as if the entire affair had become the second half of a
7384summer holiday. 
7385
7386 
7387
7388■「The Thirtieth Day」■ 
7389
7390Nothing much happened. 
7391
7392
7393
7394■「The Thirty-fifth Day」■ 
7395
7396Nothing much, basically. 
7397
7398
7399
7400■「The Thirty-ninth Day」■ 
7401
7402- Let’s just go check out the school tomorrow. 
7403
7404Ino somehow began regaining realization of what was going on… 
7405
7406
7407 
7408■「The Fortieth Day」■
7409 
7410- The sky was dyed with the dawn sunlight.
7411 
7412In front of the school gates that were bathed in the sunlight as well, there
7413was a frail-looking, thin, stone statue that was covered in barnacles and
7414appeared to have become one with the ground. 
7415
7416This solemn, serious, memorial that even let out a saintly air was – 
7417“…C-could it be… the old man?”
7418 
7419Everyone took a breath in shock as they finally went to school once again.
7420 
7421- Sora and others who had retreated from the scene earlier… had nothing to
7422say at that point.
7423His back even appeared to be emitting light… 
7424
7425He – unquestionably was more of it than anyone else – like a real man. 
7426
7427…This man had done it ever since the day the game started, to the 
7428Empress that passed by him without a word daily –
7429 
7430Kneeled and kowtowed.
7431 
7432Like a statue, he didn’t budge at all.
7433 
7434Even until now, he continued to request.
7435 
7436No, his very appearance was his very best articulation, and he was letting
7437out a single sentence. 
7438
7439Which was – 
7440
7441Let me have you -  !! 
7442
7443Faced with his awe-inspiring image, Sora couldn’t help but admit that he 
7444truly had the dignity of a man –
7445 
7446Ah… so love isn’t about reading hearts.
7447 
7448- It’s the act of proving one’s love.
7449 
7450The old man succeeded in doing that.
7451 
7452If so – the fact that he didn’t understand love wasn’t surprising any more. 
7453Sora swaggered towards the stone effigy – no, the true man within it, and
7454his body was trembling uncontrollably. 
7455
7456“Too small – I’m so incredibly insignificant.” 
7457Compared to that man, what was he?
7458 
7459For a mere – he couldn’t help but think of it so - 「Romance」, could he
7460bear kneeling for forty days? 
7461
7462Sora could only say no. 
7463
7464He – Ino didn’t disguise himself, and shamelessly, fearlessly pulled out 
7465his heart and gave it to her.
7466 
7467Was there a love more sincere than this – no, there wasn’t!
7468
7469“So… so this is… this is 「Love」…” 
7470
7471“…Absolutely…not…” 
7472
7473Sora spoke while almost at the point of tears as though he had reached 
7474some sort of spiritual awakening, while Shiro immediately rebutted him.
7475
7476But – suddenly. 
7477
7478As though it was hiding from the sun – a shadow fell upon that holy statue. 
7479
7480Looking at the owner of the shadow that was swimming through the 
7481waters gracefully and appeared to be on the way to school –
7482 
7483It was – the Empress.
7484 
7485Her line of sight brushed past Sora and focused upon the sacred statue – no,
7486focused on Ino. 
7487
7488- Could it be? 
7489
7490“…Impossible – it can’t be…?” 
7491
7492Miko who was looking from a distance couldn’t help but mumble to herself. 
7493The Empress continued to approach Ino. And 
7494then she clasped Ino’s cheeks lightly.
7495 
7496In that instant… as though it had finally recalled that it was a human being,
7497the statue moved. 
7498
7499The barnacles, the floor and even the rocks and stones on it began to peel 
7500off.
7501 
7502The Empress’ hands gently support Ino’s cheeks and raised his head up,
7503and as though receiving some divine guidance, Ino raised his head. 
7504
7505After which – she spoke with a voice that would enchant any listener – 
7506She smiled a smile that was more valuable than any treasure on earth. 
7507She spoke a single sentence.
7508 
7509“…It’s impossible for us to be together.” - I knew 
7510it~…
7511 
7512Everyone’s inner thoughts seemed to overlap. “- 
7513Ah…”
7514 
7515However Ino clenched his teeth and thought, it can’t end like this. 
7516It was true – his love was rejected.
7517 
7518It was crushed into dust.
7519 
7520But now – since it’s come to this, there’s no other way -!
7521 
7522In order to fulfil Miko’s orders – Ino selected a command from the UI (User
7523Interface). 
7524- The heart shape with a 「+」 sign on it.
7525 
7526Which was – the command for Plum’s 「Love Magic (cheat)」.
7527 
7528And then –
7529 
7530“- Forgive me, Empress! Hnng~~~!!”
7531 
7532He exerted a force strong enough to rival a sumo wrestler.
7533 
7534- He grasped onto the Empress’ breasts firmly. 
7535Yes – in order to complete Plum’s「Spell」, he used the command.
7536 
7537“- Eh!?”
7538 
7539In an instant, a red light began glowing around the Empress, and she
7540opened her eyes wide in shock. 
7541
7542- At the same time. 
7543
7544“- Ah, ugh -!” 
7545
7546Complex patterns formed in Plum’s eyes, and she let out cries of pain. 
7547
7548Maybe because her powers were being taken from her, her black wings 
7549became blood-red in an instant, and she fell onto the floor in a sitting
7550position. 
7551
7552“…Ah, aahhh…” 
7553
7554On the other hand the Empress let out weak noises with her breasts 
7555being fondled by Ino.
7556 
7557Her face was beet-red – even Sora and others could tell obviously that her
7558heart rate was rising.
7559“We, we did it – now we can – !” 
7560
7561Plum spoke in a convincing manner. 
7562
7563“N-now, no matter how appalling of a person Ino-sama is, even with the fact
7564that he only cares about the lower body, and no matter what kind of
7565feelings the Empress may have… she will take those feelings – and
7566recognize them as 「Love」!” 
7567
7568Plum seized her opportunity to insult Ino to the point of worthlessness 
7569while speaking tiredly.
7570 
7571- Sora was grumbling to himself that it was a really low form of magic as
7572well. 
7573
7574But no matter by hook or by crook, the Empress would 「Fall in Love」. 
7575
7576Which means Game Over. 
7577
7578And then – 
7579“- No, nonono, even if you want love it shouldn’t be this way, this is
7580impossible, sorry!!” 
7581
7582- Just like that, she clearly rejected Ino. 
7583
7584The Empress waved her fins, and almost flew – towards the school 
7585buildings.
7586 
7587…
7588 
7589- …
7590 
7591…Sad~ depressing~ melancholic~… -
7592 
7593That sort of background music began playing in Sora’s mind.
7594 
7595That man was reduced to ashes.
7596He was burned white – no, his fur was white in the first place – burned into 
7597a white pile of ash.
7598 
7599The words 「Hatsuse Ino•Lose」 appeared in the world.
7600 
7601While in front of the gates, although he had been shattered and burnt –
7602 
7603- The man who was still maintaining his posture from squeezing the
7604Empress’ boobs earlier – Hatsuse Ino turned into ashes. 
7605
7606Sora stumbled over. 
7607
7608He didn’t know what to say to him, 
7609
7610- But despite that, Sora felt like he had to say something. 
7611
7612“Old man – no… Hatsuse Ino, I’ve misunderstood you all this time.” 
7613
7614Sora’s voice was trembling as he searched for the correct words to say. 
7615
7616“You are truly a – great man, just for that woman… for that woman that 
7617can’t appreciate truly great things, you’re too great for her…”
7618 
7619But, even though Ino was about to turn into ashes and disappear –
7620 
7621He still spoke –
7622 
7623“- No, Sora-san… it was my love that wasn’t enough, for love is without sin.” 
7624After finishing his sentence – as he was 「Rejected」, Ino would lose all
7625his rights and be removed from the game. 
7626
7627He gradually began slowly changing colors from a dark, charred gray until 
7628he appeared almost transparent, and then –
7629 
7630“Ino…? Ino, hey, wait! You’re joking right!?”
7631Sora yelled while grasping onto Ino’s shoulders, but Ino’s body ignored 
7632him and gradually began disappearing from the game.
7633 
7634- Just like that, Hatsuse Ino’s high school life was over.
7635 
7636It was a high school life that was rather eventful, but ended up with
7637him kowtowing all the while. 
7638
7639If he could go through it again, he wouldn’t leave behind any regrets – 
7640
7641- At this time, some weak-sounding closing transcript along the lines of 
7642that would probably be heard, but Ino instead –
7643 
7644“Phew… I have no regrets… if there’s a next time, I’ll do it, all over again –“
7645 
7646With a blissful smile on his face, blatantly refusing to speak such weak
7647words, and disappeared from Sora’s arms. 
7648
7649- In complete silence, Sora looked up to the sky. 
7650
7651His face which was that of real man’s was covered in tears. 
7652
7653“Hatsuse Ino… how could a man like you – ugh!” 
7654
7655Ignoring the emotional Sora, everyone else appeared cold. 
7656
7657- This wasn’t just an awkward moment. 
7658
7659Ino wasn’t dead, nor had he disappeared. 
7660
7661He was merely brought out of the dream – and returned to the world 
7662outside the game.
7663 
7664But Sora was so emotional that his body was shaking uncontrollably as
7665though he had lost an irreplaceable brother-in-arms.
7666“How could this be -…!!” 
7667 
7668Sora yelled to Plum who was looking at him coldly as well with a tone
7669that suggested he was about to vomit blood. 
7670
7671“What is this!? Wasn’t that a sure-fire way to win!? That man – he even 
7672sacrificed his aesthetics!! Why did this happen even after using
7673「Cheats」, why… why – didn’t the Empress let him in!!” 
7674
7675“- No, it’s not that… w-with the way he was acting any sort of magic 
7676wouldn’t be able to help, probably…?”
7677 
7678- Plum’s words did make a lot of sense.
7679 
7680Miko suddenly recalled something Plum had said.
7681 
7682To fall in love with someone like that, even a rock would have a better
7683chance against him. 
7684
7685But -… 
7686
7687Just as Miko revealed a thin smile, Sora knelt and began pounding the 
7688floor beside her emotionally.
7689 
7690“What kind of joke is this!? Is there anyone that’s more of a 「Man」 like
7691him 
7692
7693– do you agree? Shiro, Miko-san, Jibril!” 
7694
7695Sora yelled, almost roared at them. 
7696
7697The three of them that were called out merely – 
7698
7699- Nodded in approval. 
7700
7701“…Eh, eh~~?” 
7702Steph was so shocked that she stepped back upon seeing them nod their
7703heads. 
7704
7705On the other hand, Plum was utterly stunned by Sora’s angered stance –
7706 
7707She hurriedly attempted to comfort him.
7708 
7709“P-please calm down… t-this is just a really extreme example… I’ll ask
7710Amira-sama to return Ino-sama, I just want Sora-dono to try the game
7711properly one more time –“ 
7712
7713Speaking those words – 
7714She looked over at Sora’s face –
7715 
7716And Plum –
7717 
7718“- …!?”
7719 
7720Her heart was crushed.
7721 
7722No, more correctly she thought it had been.
7723 
7724The person there was – not the Sora from earlier.
7725 
7726It wasn’t the emotionally charged, begging, pleading man from earlier.
7727 
7728It wasn’t the cheerfully laughing, carefree man that had listened to Plum’s
7729request. 
7730
7731The person there was – someone else that Plum didn’t know. 
7732
7733A man with the eyes of a hunter that pitied the 「Prey that had fallen into
7734the trap」. 
7735
7736The man spoke a single sentence with a cruel, strange tone: 
7737“Again? – Why?”
7738 
7739- Because –
7740 
7741“…We’ve…already won…” “- Eh…?”
7742 
7743The man stood up nimbly with a gaze that didn’t carry any warmth, and
7744Shiro followed suit. 
7745
7746No – Shiro as well…Plum didn’t know her – she was a girl with eyes at 
7747absolute-zero temperatures.
7748 
7749Faced with their sudden, drastic change – Plum took a step back. 
7750Plum didn’t understand the two of them.
7751 
7752While Steph, Jibril, Miko and Izuna… they all knew. The 
7753ones that didn’t know could just die –
7754 
7755They just had to stumble upon them of all people – Sora and Shiro – these
7756two siblings – 
7757And those unknowing ones were Plum and others that stood against them.
7758 
7759They would only appear when their plan to drive the enemy into the
7760corner has been completed. 
7761Kuuhaku
7762 
7763- 「The most vicious enemy」- 『   』. “- That’s enough,
7764Miko-san, Jibril.” 
7765
7766Sora turned around and asked while looking behind him. 
7767“Yeah, we’re done playing, it’s complete.”
7768 
7769“I’ve already confirmed it; I’m ready anytime – just waiting for your
7770command.” 
7771
7772Seeing the two of them nod in approval, Sora spoke in an emotionless voice:
7773 
7774“Do it, Jibril.”
7775 
7776“- Your wish is my command.”
7777 
7778Jibril took a deep bow, and spread her wings.
7779 
7780- Just like that.
7781 
7782The spell that had been held together by tens upon tens of Dhampirs –
7783the 「Magic (Game)」 that was interfering with the Empress’ dreams. 
7784
7785Just like blowing daffodil seeds into the wind, it was scattered easily – and 
7786the scenery around them shattered. 
7787
7788
7789
7790
7791
7792
7793
7794 
7795Chapter 4 - Wild Card/The Fool 
7796Part 1
7797The surrounding space exploded. 
7798
7799And Amira, who was spectating the game from the real world, got the 
7800brunt of the impact.
7801 
7802“…Eh?”
7803 
7804- Plum and Amira were frozen in shock as they saw that everyone had
7805broken out of the dream world and woken up. 
7806
7807The reason why they were surprised wasn’t simply because Jibril had 
7808easily shattered a spell that had been constructed by tens upon tens of
7809Dhampirs that had recently consumed blood with the force of her will
7810alone. 
7811
7812It was because of what Sora said as he stood up. 
7813
7814“- Alright, checkmate, we win.” 
7815
7816“…Eh, about that, Amira doesn’t really get the situation~ ☆” 
7817
7818Amira spoke with a stiff smile. 
7819
7820However, Sora and Shiro told her nonchalantly: 
7821
7822“…The rules didn’t say we can’t… 「Save and Quit」…” 
7823
7824“In other words you never said that we couldn’t leave the game until every
7825one of us was rejected, so there shouldn’t be a problem with us
7826「Quitting」 the game for now… you have to uphold the 「Pledges」 as far
7827as you can, you know!” 
7828Sora replied impatiently, and spoke to everyone else who had just woken 
7829up: “Alright, Jibril, we’re done here so restore the air.”
7830 
7831“- I obey.”
7832 
7833Jibril nonchalantly began drawing out the outline of a spell with her 
7834fingertips. - Suddenly, a gust of strong wind attacked the Empress’ room. 
7835In an instant, the water parted and inside the room – air began 
7836expanding. “…Eh…?”
7837 
7838Plum and Amira were completely stunned, while Jibril smiled thinly.
7839 
7840“Pardon me… I just restored the air that I compressed into a bubble
7841earlier to its original state.” 
7842
7843In the room, the air continued to expand, pushing and splashing apart 
7844the waters.
7845 
7846“- Cough -! …Phew…ugh…hah.”
7847 
7848- She hadn’t said anything since earlier, when they were in the dream.
7849 
7850Miko who had been pretending to be calm since earlier, suddenly revealed
7851an expression as though she was in pain. 
7852
7853Breathing fresh air that she hadn’t got the chance to breathe in a long time, 
7854her shoulders heaved up and down almost as if she was laughing.
7855 
7856In an instant, steam began rising from her completely blood-red body. 
7857- She revealed the truth straightforwardly. 
7858“To bear water pressure twenty times higher than normal with a body of
7859flesh and blood for such a long period of time… it feels pretty uncomfortable
7860even after using 「Blood Devastation」.” 
7861
7862Miko appeared to be at the verge of collapsing, experiencing a liberating 
7863reaction from the overbearing pain instead.
7864 
7865However, she strengthened her will, sat cross-legged and cupped her face
7866in her hands while smiling. 
7867
7868“- Eh?” 
7869
7870Plum, Amira and Steph appeared completely clueless as to what was going 
7871on.
7872 
7873Sora didn’t appear to pay any attention to them, and instead he
7874continued emotionlessly as if he was wearing a mask: 
7875 
7876“- But 「Due to the water pressure, blood won’t flow out of the body」 - so
7877even if she used 「Blood Devastation」 it would be undetectable, which
7878was why we weren’t noticed and we were able to listen to your heartbeats
7879to our heart’s content – thank you very much, Miko-san, please give us your
7880verdict.” 
7881
7882- Miko’s expression was… 
7883
7884“…You really like ordering people around huh… ah, forget it.” 
7885
7886Miko thought from the deepest recesses of her heart 「Luckily these 
7887people are on our side」, and replied with a thin smile.
7888 
7889“That Seiren over there – she doesn’t want to awaken the Empress at all.”
7890 
7891- Hearing her words, Amira appeared visibly shaken.
7892And then… hearing her next sentence, she positively froze in place. 
7893
7894“Next up we have Sora’s deduction – all that about complying with the
7895Empress’ 「Bet」 was a lie as well – ah~ and…” 
7896
7897Upon seeing Plum and Amira’s reactions, she appeared genuinely happy, 
7898and smiled bitterly.
7899 
7900Miko looked towards Sora gently and continued:
7901 
7902“All that stuff about you being just her type, being a handsome guy and
7903all that, those were all lies as well.” 
7904
7905“I realized that long ago - …dammit.” 
7906
7907Miko laughed cheerfully upon seeing his reactions. 
7908
7909And then – as though she was looking down upon Plum and Amira. 
7910
7911“…Did you really think being in the sea would be able to seal off my senses?” 
7912
7913She spoke painfully, but with the highest degree of mockery, and laughed 
7914with a twisted smile on her face.
7915 
7916“- The fact that I’m the 「Full Representative (Strongest) 」 of the
7917Werebeasts isn’t a fluke, you know.” 
7918
7919Sora tried extremely hard so as to not show how hurt he was, and looked 
7920away instead.
7921 
7922“Yes, Master, same goes with me.”
7923 
7924Jibril replied while kneeling reverently at Sora’s feet and meeting his gaze.
7925 
7926“Plum’s spell actually did work properly, as in that it did make the Empress
7927fall in love with others.” 
7928
7929- After which – it was Plum’s turn to freeze. 
7930
7931“- There’s no question that it worked properly, and the Empress was 
7932actually affected.”
7933 
7934- Was there a possibility that it was a fake?
7935 
7936Sora confirmed it with her wordlessly, but Jibril laughed and replied:
7937 
7938“Please don’t worry, that’s the reason why you let Miko-sama experience it
7939herself, didn’t you?” 
7940
7941Sora replied her with a smile, and lastly – turned towards Shiro. 
7942They didn’t need any form of verbal communication – 
7943“…Mm…memorized…everything…”
7944 
7945- With this sentence alone, Shiro fulfilled all of her brother’s requests. 
7946Seemingly satisfied with everyone’s answers, Sora nodded.
7947 
7948He still had a cheerful smile on his face.
7949 
7950Above that smile however – was a sinister shadow created by his fringe
7951and an unbelievably sharp gaze. 
7952
7953With a gaze that could make anyone feel as if they were being glared at by 
7954a wild beast, he spoke:
7955 
7956“- Hey you, Dhampirs and Seirens (you bastards), did you really think that
7957you could use us as 「Food」?” 
7958
7959Hearing those words, Plum and Amira’s gazes shifted slightly.
7960If they really thought that sort of suspicious action wouldn’t be noticed
7961by Sora that he was 「Exactly correct」- that would be too – 
7962 
7963“Eh? Huh? Um, well, what’s going on?”
7964 
7965“…?”
7966 
7967Steph and Izuna still didn’t appear to understand what was going on.
7968 
7969They looked at each other in disbelief.
7970 
7971But Sora didn’t appear to want to explain any further, and instead clapped
7972his hands and turned to leave. 
7973
7974“Alright, we’re going back, Jibril, take us to the beach.” 
7975
7976“I obey.” 
7977
7978Jibril spread her wings and her halo began spinning, while everyone 
7979hurriedly got in contact with her.
7980 
7981“Eh? Um! P-please wait!”
7982 
7983Plum hurriedly ran over as well –
7984 
7985“You’re pretty observant, Dhampir – can you stop acting the errand girl
7986(victim) now?” 
7987
7988What welcomed her was – Sora’s thin smile, which caused a chill to run 
7989down her back.
7990 
7991- Amira spoke.
7992 
7993“Eh~? Ino-sama~ Is 「Still here」~! Is it really alright to leave this early~
7994♥” 
7995
7996Beside Amira, Ino was lying motionless, and everyone looked over at him. 
7997Izuna began looking uneasily at Ino and Sora –
7998 
7999But Sora replied casually:
8000 
8001“Yeah, it’s fine.”
8002 
8003“Because…the consequences if you do anything to Ino – you know them
8004very well, don’t you?” 
8005
8006Amira’s eyes grew wide in shock, and Sora laughed mockingly. 
8007 
8008“Acting like an idiot in front of me – you’ve got to have a limit
8009somewhere when you underestimate others, outsider.” 
8010
8011Sora turned around. 
8012
8013“- We’ll be back, Seirens, and don’t forget that the price for looking down on
8014「Us」 - is great indeed!” 
8015
8016After which Jibril teleported them out, only leaving behind Amira and Ino. 
8017
8018
8019Part 2 
8020
8021They were back at the seaside. 
8022
8023The sun had set long ago, leaving behind a reddish moon and countless
8024stars 
8025
8026– and a beach lit up by bonfires. 
8027
8028Amongst the crashing of the waves and the explosions of the fireworks on 
8029the bonfires, Sora spoke cheerfully:
8030 
8031“Oh, Shiro, it’s almost done roasting right?”
8032 
8033“…Tropical fish…can we eat it…?”
8034 
8035“It’s a saltwater fish called 「Lelite」, I heard it tastes pretty good.”
8036[28]
8037
8038
8039 
8040- Everyone was teleported from Oceande back to the seaside by Jibril.
8041 
8042Since they had teleported a large amount of seawater with them, they
8043were currently grilling the fish that were swept along as well. 
8044
8045“Hah -! …This stuff is usually what I eat as side-dishes with alcohol after 
8046work anyway… if only it was –“
8047 
8048Miko finished her drink in one gulp, ate her entire fish after which
8049Sora continued her sentence. 
8050
8051“If only it was 「Fried tofu skin」 - am I right?” 
8052
8053“- How did you know that’s my favorite food? Did I mention it?” 
8054
8055Ignoring the shocked Miko, Sora and Shiro began laughing. 
8056And a few paces behind that peaceful scenery – “W-
8057what is this… what’s going on?” 
8058Steph still appeared to not have understood what was going on, and was
8059asking herself this question. 
8060
8061Beside her Izuna was looking down, speechless. 
8062While further ahead – Plum was silent as well.
8063 
8064Sora glanced at Steph, and spoke while chewing on a piece of grilled fish: 
8065“It’s nothing – it’s just that Plum wanted to trick us, that’s all.”
8066 
8067- As Steph was looking wide-eyed over at Plum, Sora continued as though in
8068reply to her query: 
8069
8070“You’re going to ask when did I realize that – right? Plum.” 
8071
8072…No, he was speaking to Plum who was looking at the ground – and he 
8073continued mockingly.
8074 
8075Upon seeing Plum lift her head up in trepidation, he smiled bitterly
8076and continued nonchalantly: 
8077
8078“It was 「From the beginning」 - your story was pretty suspicious from 
8079the start.”
8080 
8081As though imitating Sora, Shiro, Miko and Jibril sneered as well. - 
8082The Dhampirs and Seirens had a relationship of mutualism.
8083 
8084And their relationship was crumbling due to the Empress entering
8085hibernation. Plum did not rebut Jibril’s words at the time – but…
8086Sora smiled bitterly again as though he had just heard a bad joke, and 
8087continued:
8088 
8089“「Since we’ve created a form of magic to awaken her, please help us」-
8090hah, that’s impossible.” 
8091 
8092“…Eh? W-why is that?”
8093 
8094Steph was the only one that hadn’t caught on, while Sora passed a stick of
8095grilled fish down – 
8096
8097“Pretending to have a sure-win method in order to cheat us into playing a 
8098game where we have no chance of winning, causing us to lose everything,
8099doesn’t this sound like an extremely profitable method to you? Wouldn’t
8100you do the same?” 
8101
8102“-…” 
8103
8104Steph’s face twitched instinctively upon hearing Sora who was uttering 
8105such cruel methods with a smile on his face.
8106 
8107“That’s true, but there’s still something that 「Worries」 me.”
8108 
8109Sora spoke while chewing a grilled fish:
8110 
8111“I couldn’t seem to tell whether Plum was lying, and Izuna who was in the
8112same room couldn’t detect it either – ah, Izuna, aren’t you going to eat the
8113fish?” 
8114
8115Sora held out a stick of fish while recalling the night when they first 
8116encountered Plum.
8117 
8118“…No thanks, des.”
8119 
8120Izuna shook her head slightly.
8121Miko who was drinking wine opposite them – closed her eyes and shook 
8122her head as well.
8123 
8124“So just in case she really was lying I even took her to Miko – but she still
8125wasn’t lying.” 
8126
8127If Jibril was on alert, magic that could conceal a person’s lies would be 
8128revealed instantly.
8129 
8130So in front of the strongest Werebeast 「Miko」, any lies would be
8131completely exposed, or at least that was what Sora had thought. 
8132
8133Sora began grilling another piece of fish over the fire. 
8134 
8135“But what Plum casted back there really was - 「A magic that could make
8136people fall in love」.” 
8137
8138Under the glow of the fire, Sora appeared to be genuinely enjoying 
8139himself. However, he then took on a sinister smile and continued:
8140 
8141“So she really had a spell that could guarantee victory – but why ask for
8142our help then?” 
8143
8144“Essentially, w-what that means is, she really wasn’t lying?” 
8145
8146So that would mean that she really needed Sora and the others’ help -? 
8147Hearing Steph’s question, Sora began twirling a fish stick and replied:
8148“Yes, she wasn’t lying – and that’s 「The source of the problem」.” 
8149
8150- Sora looked down at Shiro who was at his knee-height, and she replied: 
8151
8152“…UTC (Universal Time Coordinated) 6/20 22:42…「Nii」…” 
8153As though she was a recorder, she recited his words out perfectly –
8154
8155“…「If we win the game, what will we get in return?」…” 
8156
8157Shiro adhered to the accurate time displayed on her phone from their
8158「Original World」- to organize her memories, even 「Completely
8159memorizing」 his pitch as he spoke those words. She spoke Sora’s previous
8160words completely accurately, just like a 「Replay」, causing everyone there
8161to widen their eyes in shock. 
8162
8163“- And in reply to this, what did Plum say?” 
8164
8165“…UTC (Universal Time Coordinated) 6/20 22:43…「Plum」…” 
8166
8167She emotionlessly, calmly – 
8168
8169“…「Um… we will reward you with thirty percent of Oceande’s
8170underwater resources, and permanent good relations between our
8171nations… a-and… um… I-I will do whatever you wish.」...” 
8172
8173This time she 「Replayed」 Plum’s words and Sora smiled bitterly 
8174upon hearing it.
8175 
8176“Exactly – right 「Here」, she wasn’t lying – but 「There was also no
8177truth」.” 
8178
8179Sora pointed the stick he was playing with previously at Steph. 
8180“Steph, didn’t you have something to say about us having to bet
8181「Everything」 in their game?” 
8182
8183“Y-yeah… because they’re requesting for our help, aren’t they?” 
8184
8185“Yes, you’re correct.” 
8186
8187“- Eh, huh?” 
8188Sora chewed on his fish while nonchalantly uttering shocking revelations,
8189and continued: 
8190
8191“I shot your protests down only because I needed to gather the 
8192necessary information. In apology, I’ll explain why you’re feeling such
8193incongruity.” 
8194
8195At that moment Steph’s incongruity could only be described as she felt 
8196「Something wasn’t right」, and that was –
8197 
8198“This 「Game」- is like a 「Horse race」.”
8199 
8200“H-horse race? The kind where you bet money for horses to win?”
8201 
8202Sora nodded in relief at the fact that this world had horseracing as well.
8203 
8204“Horse racing is to let horses race, a 「Game (Gamble) 」 to predict which
8205one will win… but in its most basic form it’s just the act of letting horses
8206race against each other – which is also a 「Contest between the riders」
8207isn’t it?” 
8208
8209To be precise, what he meant was – 
8210
8211“Horse racing is - 「A gambling sport created from a rider’s sport」- a 
8212double-layered game.”
8213 
8214“The riders (us) race against each other (romance game) to win the
8215Empress’ love.” 
8216
8217And – 
8218
8219“On the other hand, the resources and relations given as rewards by
8220Amira and Plum is a 「Prize」 merely directed at the aim of「Awakening
8221the Empress」- racing and horse racing (gambling) are clearly two
8222different games, but we were forced into the game as both horses and
8223gamblers – of course we would feel something wasn’t right.” 
8224…Steph inhaled sharply, realizing what was going on.
8225 
8226According to Sora’s example, they were the riders in a horse race.
8227 
8228But they were forced to bet all they had on themselves - 「Also」 being
8229forced to take part in a second game. 
8230
8231And Sora appeared to read Steph’s thoughts… 
8232
8233- He shook his head and said “That’s not the problem.” 
8234
8235“So if this is a horse race, where did the riders’ (our) – 「Prize」 for
8236the competition go?” 
8237
8238Sora looked evilly at Plum. 
8239
8240“…Huh, it’s the love of the Empress of course… allowing her to wake up?” 
8241
8242“- If you make the Empress fall in love with the person, the Empress would
8243love the person forever? And she would wake up for her prince? – This
8244doesn’t make sense at all, and only the Empress benefits right? Where’s
8245the 「Equal」 reward for the winner?” 
8246
8247Finally, Steph found the 「Source」 of her incongruity.
8248 
8249Resources, good relations, and Plum’s free will – none of them sounded like
8250what the Empress would’ve bet. 
8251
8252So, the game that allowed the Empress to hibernate after 「Swearing by 
8253the Pledges」.
8254
8255The 「Bet」 of equal value to both parties – to be given to the victorious 
8256rider
8257 
8258–
8259 
8260- Regarding that reward –
8261- She hadn’t mentioned it all!? 
8262
8263Miko laughed bitterly and began playing with her fish stick as well. 
8264
8265“This series of games has two sides to it, but when Sora mentioned 「The
8266rewards for winning」, the Dhampir over there intentionally avoided the
8267two-facedness of it, so she didn’t lie.” 
8268
8269She smiled and continued. 
8270
8271“But even though she didn’t lie – it doesn’t mean she was telling the truth.” 
8272 
8273Miko immediately sensed something in Plum’s heartbeat that told her 「I
8274was found out」, and she smiled again thinly. 
8275
8276Sora spoke in an exaggerated fashion as though deep in thought – 
8277
8278“Alright, here’s where the 「Problem」 comes in – why couldn’t she
8279mention the two-facedness of the game?” 
8280
8281Sora looked at Plum while twirling the stick in his hands and continued: 
8282
8283“Before we reached the sea floor – the place where you thought you could
8284seal Miko-san and Izuna’s senses, you ignored the topic, why couldn’t you
8285just say something like 「Amira said there won’t be any risk」?” 
8286
8287At this time Jibril who was busily preparing the fish and piercing them 
8288on sticks behind Sora passed him a fish stick that was coated in salt, and
8289continued for him: 
8290
8291“- Because as long as she were to say that it would be 「Lying」… right?” 
8292
8293She smiled thinly, having answered the question. 
8294
8295Sora nodded, so what that meant was – Sora glanced at Shiro meaningfully.
8296“…UTC (Universal Time Coordinated) 6/20 04:28…「Plum」…「Please 
8297save our species!」…”
8298
8299Nibbling on her fish lightly, Shiro skilfully - 「Replayed」 Plum’s initial 
8300words.
8301 
8302“If the words 「Our species」 wasn’t a lie – that would mean she really
8303wanted us to save the Dhampirs.” 
8304
8305Which would mean – 
8306
8307“Which means – only – save the Dhampirs – so what should we do?” 
8308Sora ignored Steph whose eyes were wide as marbles.
8309 
8310He flicked the stick he was playing with earlier – towards Plum who was
8311sitting on the beach, and it stuck in the sand beside her. 
8312
8313“Alright, so we have all the materials we need for the verdict, don’t we?” 
8314Sora began throwing stick after stick in her direction in the same 
8315fashion. “There are three questions. And, only one conclusion.” 
8316Looking over at the beach sand that had three sticks lodged in it, Sora
8317spoke to Plum. 
8318
8319“- Are you prepared for this? Plum.” As 
8320though in reply to Sora’s words.
8321 
8322- Under the light of the bonfire, the red moon and the stars.
8323 
8324Four pairs of equally mysterious eyes each began exhibiting a unique 
8325glow. The first to react was Miko. 
8326“- Why would you avoid talking about anything related to the twofacedness
8327of
8328the games?”
8329
8330
8331Miko threw out a stick at a speed that broke the sound barrier, hitting the 
8332first stick Sora threw, causing it to split into halves.
8333 
8334“Because you can’t lie.”
8335 
8336After Sora replied, Jibril was the next to act.
8337 
8338“Why would you request for our help even if you clearly have love magic?”
8339 
8340Jibril shot out a stick that broke the sound barrier as well, hitting
8341Sora’s second stick – crushing it into pieces. 
8342
8343“Because Plum can’t lie.” 
8344
8345Sora replied, and the last to react was Shiro who was sitting on his lap. 
8346
8347“…Getting to the bottom of it… why – can’t you… tell a lie?” 
8348
8349The stick Shiro threw drew an arc in the air and hit the center of Sora’s 
8350third stick… connecting the two.
8351 
8352“Because if she lies – she would be exposed.”
8353 
8354- Exactly.
8355 
8356“If this is a 「Horse race」, then one mustn’t forget – each of us is betting
8357on different horses.” 
8358 
8359The Seirens bet on – the Empress.
8360 
8361The Dhampirs bet on – Sora and the others.
8362 
8363Two games, two aims.
8364Combining all the conclusions they had made. 
8365
8366Yes, there was - 「Only one」 conclusion. 
8367
8368“The Seirens plan to use 「The Empress’ hibernation game」 to 「Feed on
8369the Imanity」.” 
8370
8371“What -!” 
8372
8373Steph was the only one shocked by this. 
8374
8375The Seirens had done what Sora had said initially. 
8376
8377Pretending that the game they were participating in would be a sure win, 
8378to lure Sora and the others – the full representatives of Imanity into their
8379game. 
8380
8381In order to get new 「Materials for reproduction」- in this case the Imanity, 
8382to avoid the crisis their species was in.
8383 
8384But –
8385 
8386“The Dhampirs took advantage of this plan to betray the Seirens – they plan
8387to 「Free the Dhampirs」.” 
8388
8389Yes – Plum did want the Empress to fall in love and awaken from her 
8390slumber.
8391 
8392While Amira – did not. 
8393
8394“Since Werebeasts were present she couldn’t lie, but since she had another 
8395plan entirely she couldn’t reveal the truth either.”
8396 
8397Once again, Steph was the only one who remained speechless.
8398 
8399But – as though requesting everyone to stop, Sora raised up one hand.
8400- As though to say 「The fun has only just begun」. 
8401
8402“Alright, so let’s all recall, what was the 「Prize」 if the Empress were to
8403win the game?” 
8404 
8405Sora smiled at Plum genuinely, and he looked away.
8406 
8407After which – under the glow of the moonlight, four pairs of sharp and
8408unusual eyes began discussing. 
8409
8410“Would that bet let Amira – let the Seirens choose maintain their 
8411current situation over awakening their Empress?”
8412 
8413A pair of bewitching golden eyes, Miko smiled thinly.
8414 
8415“Would that 「Bet」 let Plum – let the Dhampirs achieve freedom if they
8416were to win it?” 
8417
8418A pair of cold amber eyes, Jibril smiled mockingly. 
8419
8420“…Regarding the survival of the Seirens…something that could return 
8421the rights of the Dhampirs…”
8422 
8423A pair of emotionless ruby eyes, Shiro smiled sympathetically.
8424 
8425Each one of them spoke in order, and a pair of obsidian eyes, Sora
8426emotionlessly – revealed his conclusion. 
8427
8428“What the Empress bet was –「Everything she had」… am I right?” 
8429
8430- Plum bent her head down while Steph inhaled deeply. 
8431
8432Back when the current Empress first entered her hibernation, she wasn’t
8433the Empress yet – which meant she wasn’t a 「Full Representative」. 
8434But now it was different.
8435 
8436Now regarding the 「Bet」, as long as they were to fulfill the victory
8437conditions 
8438
8439– they would win all the Seirens had as well. 
8440
8441- Including the Race Piece as well, winning 「Everything」 just as the 
8442bet implied.
8443 
8444Sora smiled bitterly again, completely ignoring Steph.
8445 
8446He casually uttered words that made Steph question her own hearing.
8447 
8448“I’ve deduced everything up to this point before we even reached the 
8449beach.”
8450 
8451“- What?” 
8452
8453“But…since I didn’t have enough evidence, I decided to go to Oceande 
8454anyway.”
8455 
8456Sora sounded like he was joking, but his voice carried a hint of seriousness
8457as well. 
8458
8459“We don’t get to go to the beach very often, so we definitely have to enjoy it 
8460
8461– which is to say…” 
8462
8463As he said this, Sora flashed an unbelievably cruel smile in the direction 
8464of Plum.
8465 
8466In a single breath – he provided the solution to the rest of the riddle.
8467 
8468“We brought you to the beach in broad daylight to weaken you.”
8469 
8470“We let Miko-san and Jibril pretend to fool around to test whether
8471「Blood Devastation」 could be disabled underwater.” 
8472“We also made Jibril venture forth to the oceans in order to confirm the
8473location of Oceande.” 
8474
8475“The strain of using 「Blood Devastation」 the entire day was partly 
8476alleviated by Shiro who was fondling Miko-san until nighttime.”
8477 
8478“We didn’t wait for the 「Reception Boat」 that could very likely be a
8479trap, and instead we proceeded using Jibril’s teleportation. 
8480
8481“We forced you, Plum, into a situation where you had to top up on fresh 
8482Seiren blood to allow us to breath underwater and part ways with us;
8483while Jibril used that time to compress and save the air that we brought
8484there; casting extra preventive methods on Miko-san as well to prevent
8485your underwater breathing magic from taking effect; allowing us to meet
8486Amira with her Werebeasts senses fully awakened. 
8487
8488“- That’s it. Do you get it now?” 
8489
8490… 
8491
8492… - 
8493
8494- Steph and Plum were both shocked to the point of speechlessness. 
8495 
8496While Sora was nonchalantly checking on whether his fish was grilled
8497properly. 
8498
8499“It was impossible for you to 「Not lie at all」 before the game started, 
8500since you had to make us swear 「Everything we had」 on the pledges, and
8501to expose your lies Miko-san had to be – in a condition where she couldn’t
8502be affected by your suspicious magic.” 
8503
8504A magic that allowed them to speak and talk underwater – 
8505
8506And the caster was Plum who was confirmed to be an 「Enemy」 as well,
8507so 
8508there was a high risk of her managing to cheat their sensory devices.
8509 
8510After uncovering all the solutions, Sora continued:
8511 
8512“The Seirens and Dhampirs may be different – but have you forgotten? They
8513made us bet everything we have on ourselves, taking part in both a horse
8514race and a gamble – so we have a sweepstake as well.” 
8515
8516- Exactly. 
8517
8518“- A sweepstake of 「Cheating all of you and allowing us to take victory」.” 
8519
8520“Ah, Plum, you’re quite something, that’s a strategy rather suitable for a
8521weakling, no doubt a level of intelligence only achievable by the race that
8522had all their power taken by the 「Ten Pledges」. Since even if Amira’s evil
8523plot were to succeed and Imanity were to be used as 「Food」, the
8524Dhampirs could still survive, as let’s say the Empress was actually
8525awakened –“ 
8526
8527Sora clapped in genuine admiration, not carrying any malice. 
8528
8529“What made the Empress fall in love was your magic and not us, so you 
8530alone won”
8531 
8532- Even managing to deduce Plum’s reason for joining in the game as well,
8533Sora continued. 
8534
8535“Just a disclaimer, I don’t praise others, I just genuinely think that – this is 
8536a great strategy.”
8537 
8538She had managed to create a situation where she would win no matter
8539what happened. 
8540 
8541Also she virtually didn’t need to do anything except sit back while others
8542do the work.
8543It was an ideal method of victory, but – 
8544
8545“You left out one thing!” 
8546
8547“- Eh?” 
8548
8549Plum lifted her head up. 
8550
8551“Didn’t you realize? The problem here isn’t because your plan was revealed,
8552nor was it because you hid the fact about the true 「Reward」we receive
8553when we win the game in order to free the Dhampirs; and neither is it
8554because – your magic can’t awaken the Empress.” 
8555
8556Sora’s mouth twitched at a corner. 
8557
8558And then he spoke as ironically as he could: 
8559
8560“It was because Amira assured us that we 「Absolutely couldn’t」 awaken
8561the Empress.” 
8562
8563“-…Ah!” 
8564
8565Plum inhaled sharply. 
8566
8567Because of that, everything made sense. 
8568
8569Why – Ino couldn’t beat the game – 
8570
8571Plum’s magic worked properly. 
8572
8573Jibril confirmed as well that the magic unquestionably achieved its effect 
8574on the Empress.
8575 
8576But despite this, the Empress did not awaken.
8577 
8578Which would mean –
8579“The condition to awaken the empress - 「Isn’t making her fall in love」.”
8580 
8581-…Only gnawing noises could be heard.
8582 
8583Those were the sounds of Plum clenching her jaw, while Sora continued:
8584 
8585“Amira knew that from the start, as no matter how much you beg her she
8586would never give you 「An actual opportunity to awaken the Empress」, 
8587because it would be a huge blow to the Seirens – you understand that
8588right?” 
8589
8590Sora even kept his smug smile. 
8591
8592“The Seirens that you’ve been looking down on since earlier – even took 
8593your betrayal into consideration.”
8594 
8595“…-!”
8596 
8597Plum collapsed onto the beach in a sitting position, unable to believe that
8598the Seirens that she had always looked down upon on had tricked her. 
8599
8600However Sora continued to add fuel to the fire. 
8601
8602“A strategy befitting of a weakling, an excellent strategy. But – in the end 
8603it’s all just futile.”
8604 
8605- Exactly.
8606 
8607Even if the strong were to use the knowledge (weapon) of the weak, they
8608wouldn’t be able to exercise its full potential. 
8609
8610Because the weak had something they didn’t stemming from self-pity – 
8611
8612Stemming from their weakness – cowardice. 
8613
8614Sora’s expression changed once again as he stopped smiling, instead
8615continuing solemnly: 
8616
8617“The natural enemy of the strong is the weak, but the natural enemy of 
8618the weak is not the strong – it is the ones that are even weaker.”
8619 
8620The weak – the man that was the very personification of this term
8621began approaching Plum dangerously. 
8622
8623He crouched down, meeting her exact line of sight, and spoke softly and 
8624directly:
8625 
8626“An idiot that knows he’s an idiot – is even harder to deal with than an
8627idiot that thinks he isn’t.” 
8628 
8629- Whoever that was referring to, Sora chose not to reveal. 
8630“Alright – checkmate.”
8631 
8632- Plum’s face was pale.
8633 
8634Originally only Sora’s bunch had accepted her terms.
8635 
8636But since they had saw through her deception and interrupted the game,
8637Plum had no other choice.. 
8638
8639In order for the Seirens to survive, they could only devour the 
8640Dhampir’s 「Hidden last living male」.
8641 
8642Since they had confirmed that the Dhampirs had betrayed them, they
8643would definitely do it. 
8644
8645- If so, the Dhampirs would be the first to 「Checkmate」. 
8646
8647And after the Dhampirs turn extinct, the next up would be the Seirens. 
8648The Seirens – needed to find a partner that would allow them to carry
8649out reproduction. 
8650
8651But what they needed in return for that was the partner’s 「Life」, so of 
8652course no one would agree to it.
8653 
8654- Just like that, the Seirens would reach 「Checkmate」 as well.
8655 
8656In order to survive, they could only unconditionally surrender and
8657become -「Domestic slaves」. 
8658
8659“Plum, do you know what the ultimate way to win a game is?” 
8660
8661He had a devilish smile on his face – that could make anyone tremble in 
8662fear.
8663 
8664“- It’s 「To win without fighting」. Even if we don’t win the Empress’
8665game, we still win.” 
8666
8667After which it was something that dragged Plum into the depths of hell – 
8668a smile.
8669 
8670“Trying to beat the Imanity with 「A weakling’s strategy」, you all are
8671too inexperienced – rookies (beginners).” 
8672
8673- One move. 
8674He was a man that had the survival of two species in his control in just
8675one move. 
8676
8677He laughed creepily, sinisterly and continued. 
8678
8679
8680Part 3
8681“Alright, you should have got the gist of it, so…” 
8682
8683Sora appeared restless. 
8684
8685Looking closely, Shiro who was sitting in his lap appeared awkward as well
8686– 
8687
8688“Hmm? Master, is something the matter?” 
8689
8690“- W-where’s the toilet?” 
8691
8692… 
8693
8694Sora asked with a pitiful expression that completely shattered the 
8695serious situation from earlier.
8696 
8697“The toilet you speak of… is the chamber where Imanity excrete –“
8698 
8699“What kind of toilets are there other than that!”
8700 
8701Sora yelled while pointing at everyone else.
8702 
8703“Speaking of which what kind of inhuman bladders were you all born with!
8704Being by the sea for an entire day, diving into the ocean itself, coming back
8705to the beach at night, even eating fish, a normal person would be at his limit 
8706by now!” 
8707
8708“…N-Nii…S-Shiro is…” 
8709
8710Shiro signaled with tears in her eyes, while Miko laughed heartily: 
8711
8712“Beautiful ladies don’t do that sort of thing, although I don’t really 
8713understand
8714how you feel, but shouldn’t it be alright as long as you find somewhere 
8715nearby to take care of business?”
8716 
8717- Not counting Jibril for now, Miko-san is a 「Living Being」 right –
8718Sora stood up, sensing that it wasn’t the time for such comments.
8719“W-we – no, I’m going to the toilet, Shiro’s going to pick flowers!”
8720Sora suddenly ran off while carrying Shiro. 
8721
8722“…N-Nii – d-don’t… shake…” 
8723
8724“Ah! This is the beach so there should at least be some 「Seaside
8725Teahouse」! Where is it!?” 
8726
8727Sora and Shiro noisily ran off. 
8728
8729Leaving behind the perfectly silent beach. -… 
8730
8731There were only the noises of the waves and fireworks exploding.
8732 
8733“Alright, now we just have to wait for them to surrender unconditionally.
8734I’m tired, so I’ll be heading back first.” 
8735
8736Miko appeared extremely tired, and she stood up in preparation to 
8737leave. “Ah, wait a minute! What should we do about Ino-san!”
8738 
8739Steph asked hurriedly, having finally come to terms with the 
8740situation. - She understood that the Seirens wanted to take the 
8741Imanity as food.
8742 
8743She understood that Plum wanted to take advantage of their plan to free the
8744Dhampirs as well. 
8745
8746She also agreed with the fact that Sora had saw through everything and 
8747was on a whole new level above them.
8748 
8749But –
8750
8751The Seirens still possessed a card known as 「Hatsuse Ino」. 
8752
8753Steph yelled loudly as this problem was yet to be solved. 
8754
8755And – Miko turned around. 
8756 
8757She appeared even more enchanting under the moonlight – and she spoke
8758with a monster-like sinister smile: 
8759
8760“We won’t do anything. Just like that we get two races – isn’t it a good 
8761deal?”
8762 
8763Miko indicated that there was 「None」 of that sort of option, allowing
8764Steph to finally understand everything. 
8765
8766Which is to say – she could summarize the incident. 
8767
8768(Neither Sora and the others or Miko-san planned to save anyone from the 
8769start -!)
8770 
8771Sora and Miko and the others had discussed – a single move that could put
8772the two races in 「Checkmate」. 
8773
8774Just for this purpose, only for this purpose, they had actually so easily. 
8775
8776- Treated Ino as a sacrifice - ! 
8777
8778“…That sort of thing… I don’t approve of it.” 
8779“Huh?”
8780 
8781Golden – exactly like a 「Monster」, even though Miko’s beastly eyes
8782were causing Steph’s knees to wobble. 
8783
8784But, even if so – Steph continued to survey her surroundings, squeezing 
8785out her voice with all her might.
8786 
8787In an Elkia without Sora and the others, the only Werebeast that had
8788supported Steph was – Hatsuse Ino. 
8789
8790Although he had only been with them for two weeks, playing together and 
8791struggling to rebuild Elkia, he had spent a tremendous amount of effort on
8792the establishment of the Elkian 
8793[29]
8794 Federation, without him, they might not
8795even know where to begin. 
8796
8797No matter to the Eastern Federation or to Elkia – to Steph, he was 
8798definitely not a cheap talent, and if a sacrifice were to occur for the sake of
8799uniting multiple races – it would cause unbelievably negative
8800repercussions. 
8801
8802Miko couldn’t possibly fail to understand this unspoken rule – 
8803“Hatsuse Ino is undoubtedly a man of great talent, a man who had
8804supported me since the very beginning of the Eastern Federation, and a
8805man who would undoubtedly reply 「I obey」 if he was given the order to
8806die for it – this sort of man really cannot be considered worthless – but in
8807the end he still remains an impeccable man that has achieved great things.” 
8808
8809Miko spoke regretfully while looking up at the moon. 
8810
8811For their own benefits, they could even sacrifice someone like that so easily
8812-! 
8813
8814(Then I might be sacrificed at any time then – who could trust someone 
8815like that!!)
8816Within the emotionally charged Steph’s field of vision. 
8817
8818Izuna appeared, sitting slightly further away from them. 
8819
8820- Of course, Izuna couldn’t possibly come to terms with a situation like this. 
8821
8822With her own grandfather being sacrificed, even for the sake of Izuna, 
8823Miko still –
8824 
8825“I-Is Izuna -?”
8826 
8827- Fine with this? Before Steph could finish her sentence, Izuna began
8828hugging her knees as though attempting to hold herself in, rendering her
8829unable to continue. 
8830
8831Even though she couldn’t see her properly in the dusk – she could still 
8832hear Izuna’s voice.
8833 
8834“…Grandpa was prepared long ago, des…”
8835 
8836Far away from the bonfire, under the faint glow of the moon and stars,
8837Izuna’s expression couldn’t be seen. 
8838
8839“…No matter it be Grandpa’s heartbeat or smell, they are good sounds and 
8840good smells, des.”
8841 
8842However, Izuna’s voice.
8843 
8844It carried sounds of her crying as well – despite the pitch darkness, her
8845emotions were sufficiently conveyed. 
8846 
8847“I don’t want Grandpa to die… but it’ll be fine as long as Izuna bears it alone,
8848so – s-so! More people… can be saved… de, des –“ 
8849
8850Steph recalled a scene from the beach earlier. 
8851After the ruckus at the seaside – when she was deciding whether to let Sora
8852or Ino help with her fur. 
8853
8854Izuna who should have been sick of being fondled by Ino, instead – walked 
8855towards him without hesitation.
8856 
8857- She understood… it would be the last time.
8858 
8859Izuna had accepted this outcome from the start.
8860 
8861Werebeasts – they had supernatural senses, and they were done
8862communicating by then. 
8863
8864Steph was the only one not in the know, but – 
8865
8866“- Still, don’t you feel sad?” 
8867
8868“I’m not sad – I just… don’t understand some things, des.” 
8869
8870She clenched her teeth, appearing to exhale. 
8871
8872Izuna asked a question with a shaking voice. 
8873
8874“…Because Sora said – no one will die, no one will suffer, des! …B-but 
8875then, why – is Izuna suffering, des? Is Izuna weird, des…!?”
8876
8877- Her tears fell like rain. 
8878
8879Even in the darkness, it was obvious from Izuna’s voice that she was crying 
8880large tears.
8881 
8882However Steph – felt the blood that was concentrated in her head dissipate
8883slowly. 
8884
8885Hatsuse Izuna – this child was too young. 
8886Too obedient, too pure, too smart – too clever.
8887 
8888To make a girl like that, a girl merely eight years old take part in games she
8889does not wish to, even causing her to feeling guilt towards pleasurable 
8890things, making her shoulder the burden of the lives on an entire continent.
8891This truth made Steph realize: 
8892
8893- The Eastern Federation’s actions – didn’t start from here. 
8894
8895- Sacrificing the minority for the greater good – was normal for them. 
8896
8897“You created the Eastern Federation with such ways that make children cry 
8898like this, didn’t you – you’re despicable.”
8899 
8900- The Werebeasts had previously split into many small tribes and
8901continued their disputes. 
8902
8903A method like this that united them within the short time of half a century 
8904and made the Eastern Federation a great power –
8905 
8906Steph suddenly felt that she had a small glimpse of the big picture, and she
8907– even scolded Miko in an underestimating fashion. 
8908
8909Miko met her gaze head on, and replied: 
8910
8911“Sacrificing some for the greater good – it’s not even a necessary evil, but a
8912「Natural」 one. If you want to care about every single person – then
8913every single person would express his/her opinion, how are you going to
8914run a government like that… little wench.” 
8915
8916…Steph had no way to rebut that. 
8917
8918To be honest, Elkia’s nobles acted the same way. 
8919
8920They had tried their best to not let anyone suffer any losses, but completely 
8921equality was impossible in the end.
8922 
8923Steph clenched her fists, which was when Jibril began attacking her.
8924 
8925Maybe because she was unable to understand Steph’s opinion, her
8926expression was that of genuine curiosity. 
8927
8928“Does Dora-chan have something to say? Just by sacrificing one person, we 
8929can save two dying species; and we might even move one step closer
8930towards uniting with the Eastern Federation through strengthening Elkia’s
8931forces – what else is there to be desired?” 
8932
8933- Steph still was unable to rebut them. 
8934 
8935“Could it be –“ Jibril continued.
8936 
8937“You think that without sacrifice and unhappiness, we can conquer the
8938world 
8939
8940– no, taking a step back, we can reclaim Elkia?” 
8941
8942“…!” 
8943
8944“Or maybe you simply –“ 
8945
8946Jibril continued with an even more provocative smile: 
8947
8948“You simply don’t want to hurt those close to you – how selfish of you ♥” 
8949
8950Steph clenched her teeth – she understood clearly. 
8951
8952Just by sacrificing one person, they could unite two races. 
8953
8954They could save two races that would go extinct if they did nothing. 
8955
8956If it was not good of her to feel bad for sacrificing Ino alone, then – 
8957
8958“- So what…!”
8959Steph spoke determinedly. 
8960
8961Looking at Izuna who was trembling in shock, she yelled – as though she 
8962was awakened.
8963 
8964“I don’t care what you call me, be it selfish or self-interested, but despite
8965this, there’s only one thing I truly know! It’s that using this method to unite
8966all the races – is impossible!” 
8967
8968- She had no concrete evidence. 
8969
8970Miko and Jibril’s words were very true, and what they spoke of sadly was 
8971the unquestionably more realistic thing to do.
8972 
8973But, Steph was confident that it 「Wasn’t the way」.
8974 
8975As for why – probably because – it was 「Common sense」.
8976 
8977The two of them made perfect sense, and it was a proper method of
8978attacking head-on. 
8979
8980- But, getting down to it. 
8981Attempting to unite all the races by attacking head-on – would probably
8982be an impossible feat –
8983
8984
8985Part 4
8986Sora and Shiro returned calmly after wiping their hands. 
8987
8988What they were met with was Miko who was returning home and a 
8989solemn atmosphere.
8990 
8991And – Steph’s gaze pierced them like a needle.
8992 
8993“Ah… what’s up with this atmosphere?”
8994 
8995“Essentially speaking you choose to run away right?”
8996 
8997“- What?”
8998 
8999“I get it, you want to sacrifice Ino-san alone to get two races – that’s just a
9000「Threat」… I’ve overestimated you! How do you still have the guts to
9001say you want to unite all the races after you’ve used this sort of method!!” 
9002
9003Faced with Steph’s harsh words and expression, Sora scratched his head 
9004and looked at Shiro in confusion instead.
9005 
9006“Eh, um, Shiro, why am I being scolded?”
9007 
9008“…Because…you took too long…?”
9009 
9010“Of course I didn’t take long, I just went to take a piss!! F-forget it, I don’t
9011really understand but my bladder’s empty now.” 
9012
9013- With a grunt, he cleared his throat, and Sora said “Let’s get back to the 
9014original topic.” –
9015 
9016“So let’s start over – to awaken the Empress, let’s get moving.”
9017…- Huh? 
9018
9019Everyone was speechless, while Sora continued calmly: 
9020
9021“Without Plum’s magic, as long as we actually awaken the Empress the
9022Dhampirs and Seirens won’t go extinct; and we can use that as a condition
9023for them to release Ino as well, which would resolve the entire situation – 
9024speaking of which we only 「Interrupted」 the game,「Giving up」 is
9025against my personal policy, so we’re going to try again –“ 
9026
9027Ignoring the stunned masses, Sora stroked his chin and spoke: 
9028
9029“The problem is 「How do we awaken her」.” 
9030
9031Sora looked sharply at Plum: 
9032
9033“I can just about guess – no one knows the condition… right?” 
9034
9035“…Y-yeah…” 
9036
9037“Huh? You said no one knows… how is that?” 
9038
9039Steph peeked at Izuna. 
9040
9041Izuna who was crying since earlier looked up attentively, seemingly 
9042transfixed by Sora’s words.
9043 
9044She closely observed Plum’s reactions – then she nodded her head,
9045indicating she wasn’t lying. 
9046
9047However Sora nodded, as though he had expected that. 
9048
9049“The Seirens can’t use magic while the Dhampirs can – if anyone knew
9050the plan would’ve failed a long while ago, and Amira only knows -「It’s
9051not a game to make the Empress fall in love」.” 
9052“…How can you be sure?” Steph asked.
9053 
9054“The Empress went into hibernation before she became the Empress… but
9055in her standpoint she would become an Empress sooner or later… if
9056someone like that said she would give all her rights to you… what would
9057you do?” 
9058
9059Plum sighed and spoke, originally thinking that she had found the 
9060real condition.
9061 
9062Sora and Shiro nodded and continued:
9063 
9064“If such a dangerous truth were to be mentioned with someone like Amira
9065in the vicinity, she would definitely conceal it – and what is the ultimate
9066method of doing so?” 
9067 
9068“…If no one knows the truth…then…no one will find out…”
9069 
9070- Exactly, which is to say.
9071 
9072To beat the Empress’ game…
9073 
9074One had to find the victory condition that no one knew except for the
9075Empress herself. 
9076
9077It was – a game called 「Victory Condition」. 
9078
9079It would be nearly impossible to beat, and could be described as 
9080extremely difficult.
9081 
9082But –
9083 
9084Kuuhaku
9085 
9086“As long as it isn’t a 「Realistic Romance Game」-「 」won’t lose!”
9087 
9088“…Mm…!”
9089The two of them powerfully – uttered their maxim that was both reliable 
9090and embarrassing.
9091 
9092But upon seeing the siblings’ actions – Steph asked nervously:
9093 
9094“…A-about that… Sora, didn’t you – wanted to sacrifice Ino-san?”
9095 
9096“Huh~? What are you talking about, you’re such a Steph.”
9097
9098Hearing Sora’s words, they carried an unmistakable 「Denial」. 
9099
9100She didn’t care even though her own name was being used as an insult. 
9101
9102“I can’t possibly let a living cultural artifact like Izuna get depressed, and 
9103Ino
9104 
9105– that real man among men, how could I leave him… Steph, it’s not possible
9106to not get tired, but you need to wake up before you start sleeptalking
9107nonsense like this!” 
9108
9109…Sora spoke as though Ino’s value to him had risen multiple folds like a 
9110profitable company in the stock market, and he didn’t seem as though he
9111was faking it. 
9112
9113“Also – I said I would come back, didn’t I? Amira can’t lay a hand on Ino 
9114since he’s the only way they can get us to rejoin the game, and if they do
9115they can only become 「Slaves」.” 
9116Steph spoke once more:
9117
9118“B-but about Ino-san, Miko-san said 「We won’t do anything」-“ 
9119
9120“Of course, Miko-san let us use Ino as 「Proof」, while the rest is our job.” 
9121
9122Hearing Sora’s crisp and blunt response, Steph’s eyes grew even wider. 
9123
9124Yes, Miko – didn’t need to do anything. 
9125Because after this – Sora and the others 「Wanted everything」.
9126 
9127“Miko-san continuously used an ability 「Blood Devastation」 that might
9128cost her life, even offering an important subordinate of hers to us – now it’s
9129our turn to do our best – exactly what it sounds like, we need to put our
9130lives on the line.” 
9131
9132Sora announced cheerfully, while Shiro nodded in agreement. 
9133
9134However – the process of undergoing a chilling revelation and their next 
9135words caused Steph to inhale sharply.
9136 
9137“That’s called -「Working together」 right?”
9138 
9139A small shadow passed by Steph.
9140 
9141Izuna looked up with her eyes red and swollen at Sora and Shiro somewhat
9142uneasily. 
9143
9144“You all are planning to save Grandpa, des?” 
9145
9146Sora and Shiro didn’t know why she was crying. 
9147
9148But – Sora placed his hand on Izuna’s head, fondling it somewhat forcefully, 
9149then spoke with a laugh:
9150
9151  
9152
9153  
9154“But of course, I’ll definitely get the old man back – I’ll make a
9155「Promise」 with you.” 
9156
9157The uneasy gaze shifted towards Shiro – and what welcomed it was 
9158「Confirmation」.
9159 
9160“…Izuna-tan…believe in Nii…”
9161 
9162It was unavoidable that Izuna didn’t know. It 
9163was… something only Shiro knew.
9164 
9165When Nii – Sora – said the word 「Promise」.
9166 
9167Even the 「Ten Pledges」 falter under the might of it – for that word meant
9168an absolute oath. 
9169
9170But – 
9171
9172“…Nii absolutely…won’t go back on it…” 
9173
9174Hearing Shiro’s confirmation, Izuna looked up at her once again. 
9175The hand that was caressing her head – Izuna smelled it.
9176 
9177And then – she wiped her wet eyes and spoke: “…Mm, 
9178I believe you, des.”
9179 
9180“Alright, someone believes me, des.”
9181 
9182Sora spoke jokingly, while Steph looked on from a distance. 
9183Jibril stood beside her.
9184 
9185“Sorry, Dora-chan, I went too far.”
9186“…What?” 
9187
9188“I was curious as to how you would react, so I couldn’t resist… but Dora-
9189chan is right.”
9190 
9191- Her expression looked like she was going to jut out her tongue, as the
9192overly curious person spoke. 
9193
9194And as Steph glared at her, Jibril continued solemnly: 
9195“The Masters will undoubtedly change this world.”
9196 
9197But the method – Jibril continued:
9198 
9199“Because no currently known methods will allow it.”
9200 
9201“…”
9202 
9203- So regarding the true way to awaken the Empress –
9204 
9205Steph was only half listening to Sora’s next words.
9206 
9207…At that time, hearing Miko and Jibril’s words – she felt something
9208「Wasn’t right」. 
9209
9210As she was searching for the reason why she felt that way – she finally 
9211realized why as she looked at the two figures standing before her.
9212 
9213Sora... Shiro… the two of them…
9214 
9215They wouldn’t use any legitimate methods.
9216
9217They snorted and laughed at things like 「Reason」. 
9218
9219They sliced away and ignored things like 「Common sense」. 
9220The two had said – they wanted to rule over all the races without any
9221deaths nor bloodshed. 
9222
9223It was like a dream – a completely unrealistic goal, impossible to achieve 
9224through reason and common sense.
9225 
9226- But their shadows told people that they 「Could do it」.
9227 
9228On that day – on the day of their coronation – Steph might have seen it.
9229 
9230She might have seen the same thing Jibril who was standing beside her saw
9231– 
9232
9233- As she began to understand the future she was predicting for this world, 
9234she began feeling emotional.
9235 
9236“Ah~ right, Steph, you said something that I can’t ignore.” 
9237“Huh?”
9238 
9239Steph snapped out of her frozen stance upon hearing Sora’s words. 
9240“Sacrificing Ino to get two races – firstly sacrificing Ino is wrong, and –“ 
9241She once again heard something that made her freeze.
9242 
9243“It’s not two races – it’s 「Three」♪”
9244 
9245…
9246 
9247…- Huh? 
9248
9249
9250
9251
9252
9253
9254
9255
9256
9257
9258
9259
9260
9261
9262
9263
9264
9265
9266
9267 
9268Epilogue - Interrupted End 
9269Part 1
9270She felt voices conversing behind her by the beach. 
9271
9272Miko, who was walking alone in the darkness, looked up at the moon and 
9273began mumbling to herself.
9274 
9275“...Did he realize – I was testing him?”
9276 
9277No...Miko shook her head, denying her own words.
9278 
9279Even if he did find out, that man’s actions still wouldn’t change. 
9280Sora from the start – never planned to sacrifice Ino at all.
9281 
9282The sounds of his heartbeat didn’t change at all from the beginning, and
9283it sounded incredibly relaxed. 
9284
9285- Yes, Miko was testing Sora and the others. 
9286
9287If Miko was in that position, being forced to make the same decision, what 
9288would she have done?
9289 
9290It was very possible – no, it was unquestionable that she would choose to
9291sacrifice Ino. 
9292
9293Because it was an unnecessary risk, and that just by one sacrifice they 
9294would acquire many benefits.
9295 
9296Because to ask for even more – would be 「Idealism」.
9297 
9298And to give up on her ideals -
9299- Was her limit. 
9300
9301“...Can we expect them?” 
9302
9303If it was those two, they would simply nonchalantly overcome their limits. 
9304
9305Just to confirm this – Miko who had used the decision to 「Save or sacrifice
9306Ino」 to test them, closed her eyes. 
9307
9308Sora and Shiro – would they choose to 「Sacrifice him」 like she would... 
9309 
9310She had stubbornly 「Tested」 Sora and Shiro, attempting to make
9311them surpass limits that even she could not. 
9312
9313- To punish herself, to force her to live with extreme guilt for the rest of 
9314her life, she had intentionally chosen Hatsuse Ino (him) as the sacrifice,
9315and - 
9316
9317“...Maybe we really can expect them.” At this 
9318point, Miko finally realised.
9319 
9320The ruckus coming from behind her – Imanity, Werebeasts, Flügel and even
9321Dhampirs. 
9322
9323- Sora and Shiro never had the concept of 「Racial Discrimination」. 
9324“...If it’s them – maybe we can trust them with it.”
9325 
9326As she spoke, she clutched her chest.
9327 
9328Miko felt her own heartbeat – an emotion long forgotten.
9329 
9330She murmured to herself while looking up at the blood-red moon.
9331
9332
9333Part 2
9334“Jibril.” 
9335
9336“I’m here.” 
9337
9338Upon hearing Sora’s calls, Jibril immediately teleported behind him. 
9339
9340“You know how the Empress went into hibernation, and the conditions to 
9341awaken her, don’t you.”
9342 
9343When they met Plum, it was Jibril that had explained the situation to them.
9344 
9345“Yes – but that was false information...”
9346 
9347Thinking that she would be scolded again, Jibril’s voice softened slightly,
9348but then Sora said: 
9349
9350“It’s not that, where did you get the information?” 
9351 
9352“My hometown – Avant Heim.”
9353 
9354Sora continued half expectantly, half helplessly:
9355 
9356“...Anyway with the way you Flügel do things, you must have gathered all
9357sorts of written resources from all over the world, right?” 
9358
9359“Yes, of course ♪ “ 
9360
9361Jibril nodded proudly in confirmation. 
9362
9363Looking at her expression, Sora couldn’t help but smile bitterly in 
9364helplessness, thought to himself “Never mind” and continued pondering
9365the
9366situation at hand. 
9367
9368- To beat the Empress’ game. 
9369
9370Victory conditions that nobody knew and practically didn’t exist, and 
9371there were extremely limited ways to find them.
9372 
9373But – there were still ways.
9374 
9375They needed – information, and -
9376 
9377“Steph, please work together with Izuna to search for information in the
9378late king’s books.” 
9379
9380“- Huh?” 
9381
9382“Regarding the continent Elkia originally possessed that bordered the 
9383Seirens’ seas.”
9384 
9385And then – Sora said:
9386 
9387“I don’t believe that the king that had exposed the Eastern Federation’s
9388game wouldn’t do any other research regarding neighboring nations.” 
9389
9390The man that had pretended to be a foolish king with noble aspirations 
9391– probably wouldn’t have a complete answer.
9392 
9393Because if he did, the Empress would’ve been awakened by now – but -
9394 
9395“...Even if there’s no answer, there could be observations that might lead
9396us to them.” 
9397
9398Upon seeing Sora’s eyes that contained trust in the King, trust in her 
9399grandfather.
9400“Please, Steph.” 
9401
9402“- Alright, leave it to me.” 
9403
9404“...I understand, des.” 
9405
9406Izuna and Steph nodded in agreement at once. 
9407
9408“...Um, about that...w-what should we do...?” 
9409
9410“Ah yes, Jibril, Shiro and I.... and Plum, you come along as well.” 
9411
9412“Oh, a-alright... huh, where are we going?” 
9413
9414“Didn’t I say it earlier? - We intend on conquering three races, not two.” 
9415
9416Sora continued with a smile: 
9417
9418“Alright, here’s the problem, in order to find out about this game where the 
9419victory conditions aren’t clear, the only surefire way is to look for records
9420of people that have taken part in the game previously, and deduce the
9421victory conditions by comparing them – so where’s the only place we can
9422go that probably has the most records?” 
9423
9424… 
9425
9426- A second’s pause, and then... 
9427
9428A whooshing sound was heard, and another one – but that was a sound 
9429carrying a completely opposite meaning.
9430 
9431“Finally – finally! A new Master to rule us Flügel are to sit on the throne –
9432ah, to think that such a grand day would come so early!” 
9433
9434“Kyaaaaaaahhhhh please no! I don’t want to go to the lair of monsters like 
9435those!”
9436 
9437Jibril knelt on the ground and began to pray with a force that kicked up all
9438the sand around her. 
9439And the sounds of Plum struggling, yelling in an attempt to get away but
9440was being restrained by Jibril. 
9441
9442Sora ignored the commotion, and grasped Shiro’s hand. 
9443
9444He nodded slightly. 
9445
9446“Alright, let’s go – we’re heading to 「Avant Heim」.” 
9447 
9448
9449
9450
9451
9452
9453
9454
9455
9456
9457
9458
9459
9460
9461
9462
9463
9464
9465
9466
9467
9468 
9469Afterwords 
9470Phew~ I’m really tired w. That’s it for now! (TL note: Japanese people often
9471add ‘w’ to the end of words. Kind of how we say ‘lol’ a lot.) 
9472
9473To be honest, it all started with my editor discussing with me to turn 
9474the episode preview I made originally as a joke to a reality.
9475 
9476Honestly, I never really thought about what I was going to write ←
9477 
9478But I couldn’t turn down the editor’s well wishes, so I decided to try it
9479out anyway w. 
9480
9481So here are the messages to you readers from our editors - 
9482
9483Second-generation editor S: “Kamiya-sensei, please don’t adopt such poor 
9484work attitudes any longer.
9485 
9486If it weren’t for the fact that the author and illustrator is the same person,
9487this novel might even be delayed for another month. 
9488
9489Also on online message boards, please limit yourself to about three lines.” 
9490(TL note: The author’s first few lines came from the Japanese message
9491board 2ch, as one author there went overboard and got famous on the
9492internet for being overly emotional.) 
9493
9494- I’m sorry, I’ll work seriously from now on, and I’m Kamiya Yuu. 
9495
9496『NO GAME NO LIFE 』 that was supposed to be published every five
9497months or so – was delayed by one month. (TL note: Japanese publishing
9498time.) 
9499First, I deeply apologize for the delay.
9500 
9501“Sensei, please reflect on this deeply. Even deeper than the Marina Trench.”
9502 
9503Also, one of the reasons for the delay is because the editors got my work
9504progression completely wrong. 
9505
9506“I’m reflecting on this already, even deeper than the earth’s mantle.” 
9507
9508Alright, now regarding this time’s 『NO GAME NO LIFE Volume 4』. 
9509 
9510Just like what I had planned, I attempted to write a volume with a
9511rather cheery, relaxing atmosphere. 
9512
9513Because I wanted to let up on the plot from the first to third volumes, 
9514and continue from there.
9515 
9516Also, to help the story progress for the following volumes, just a cheery,
9517happy, relaxing volume - 
9518
9519...That was what I had planned, so how did it turn out like this? 
9520
9521“I had heard originally that this was going to have a cheery, relaxing plot, so 
9522why is the first draft over four hundred players long? I personally really
9523want you to explain this mysterious scenario that seems straight out of the
9524X-Files.” 
9525
9526...Yes, the truth about this entire affair is actually even deeper than the 
9527Gutenberg.” (TL note: A layer located between the earth’s mantle and
9528core.) 
9529
9530Do you want to know? 
9531
9532“Even deeper than the earth’s mantle? Spit it out then.” 
9533
9534I’ll be honest. 
9535Wasn’t it because some editor wanted to make this series into a manga
9536with my wife? 
9537
9538Because of that, I ended up spending one week of each month on drawing 
9539manga instead – essentially returning to my roots as a manga artist.
9540 
9541“...Eh...about that...”
9542 
9543Also it was because I took up one of the series my previous editor S sent
9544over. 
9545
9546Over here there isn’t much work since everyone cooperates on everything, 
9547but just as I was rushing to finish the volume up my typewriter broke, and
9548as I was going to get a new one I was run over by a car that smashed my
9549bones to bits, but luckily since I was short on cash my insurance helped my
9550purse quite a bit so never mind. 
9551
9552“...Is that all?” 
9553
9554The problem is after that, because my lead editor completely messed up 
9555my work progression, wanting me to work on three volumes, and due to
9556the process of dividing the workload being rather complicated, I was at my
9557limit just writing half a volume. 
9558
9559So it became four hundred pages, but since it’s half a volume the structure 
9560of the story began to have problems, with the most worrying one being the
9561story lacking a climax - 
9562
9563Thus, I began pondering and editing the structure of the story with regards 
9564to that.
9565 
9566So? Did this explanation reach the Guten-whatever?”
9567 
9568“It’s the Gutenberg, how should I put it, um – thank you for your hard
9569work ♥ “
9570Yeah, the situation could be mostly attributed to 「Human error」, so 
9571please say a few words about this incident ♥
9572 
9573“To think that such devilish editors exist... what a horrifying working
9574environment...” 
9575
9576Yes, to think that a devil could say such words with a straight face... how 
9577scary (trembling voice)
9578 
9579- Never mind, I won’t mention human error for now, but actually a lot of
9580other things happened that I just didn’t write down. 
9581
9582Such as diabetes, I was scolded by my doctor, and got food poisoning just 
9583from going out to eat yakitori once.
9584 
9585- But just let me say this, all this isn’t made up.
9586 
9587“Kamiya-sensei, I suggest that you go for an exorcism!”
9588 
9589I already have!
9590 
9591“...Huh?”
9592 
9593I went to Meiji Shrine before I got cancer.
9594 
9595I visited Fushimi Inari-Taisha after I got cancer.
9596 
9597This year I went to visit Kawashika Daishi. But all this still happened
9598anyway.
9599
9600If I hadn’t been to visit all these places, I might even be on the other side of 
9601the Sanzu River by now. (TL note: All the places above are places significant
9602to Japanese Buddhist beliefs. Sanzu River is a river that traditionally divides
9603the border between life and death.) 
9604
9605Ah, but at the end of the year I went to check my bank book only to see that 
9606it had only the number 「0」written on it, I don’t even have money to pay
9607the ferryman across the river... what happens if I don’t pay him? Will I come
9608back to life? 
9609
9610“No, I don’t think those sort of lifelines exist...” 
9611
9612Fine – just like that, I’ll stop here. 
9613
9614The content of this volume is relaxing, cheerful (with a deeper meaning). 
9615
9616But this is also approaching a sprint – the plot of this series entered its 
9617climax in the previous volume, so to surpass it! I will sprint forward even
9618faster, so please support - 
9619
9620“Ah, Kamiya-sensei, Kamiya-sensei.” 
9621
9622Huh? Ah, I’m here, what is it? I’m just preparing to finish this up. 
9623
9624“The editor of Alive is here to rush you, is your storyboard draft 
9625completed yet?”
9626 
9627…........
9628 
9629“And the special volume and the script for a booklet of some project, and
9630don’t forget – huh? Kamiya-sensei? Hey~ are you still there?” 
9631
9632
9633
9634 
9635Afterword