“No, you see……” Mushiki wanted to deny this immediately, but he could only fumble on his reply. Defending Mushiki too much might raise suspicion. And more important, there was a moment in the past where he had unknowingly fondled Saika’s breasts when they first fused. Mushiki was worried the guilt in his voice would be all too apparent. Incidentally, the last time Mushiki touched Saika’s breasts outside of necessary situations was that incident. Since realizing he had fused with Saika, he had intended to be as considerate of her dignity as possible. ……Well, hopefully sleeping habits can be left uncounted. “Please calm down, Ruri-san. That’s just a hypothetical scenario where Mushiki-san’s consciousness is still present. Please rest assured that isn’t the case. ──Isn’t that right, Saikasama?” With that said, Kuroe turned to look at Mushiki. “……Yes, of course.” Mushiki thought this was a warning towards him……but he also didn’t miss the somewhat playful look in Kuroe’s flat gaze, It seemed to include a bit of teasing. Honestly, this was a little nerve-wracking. And then──at that moment. The chime announcing the beginning of class rang throughout the training grounds. “Oh, is it time already?” Kuroe straightened her posture while saying this. Other students also began to gorm lines in preparation for the teacher’s arrival. As if on cue, a tall figure emerged from the entrance of the training grounds. However. “……Hm?” Upon seeing that figure, Mushiki widened his eyes in surprise. No, it wasn’t just Mushiki. Ruri and the other students also had similar expressions. But that was only a natural response. After all, what appeared there was Anviet with an adorably designed backpack on his right shoulder and holding the hand of a little girl.
“Anviet-sensei, who is that child……?” “Ah, could it be the rumored……?” “Rumored?” “You don’t know. Look, Anviet-sensei had a secret love child──” “──Mhm!” As if to silence the suddenly noisy students, Anviet purposefully cleared his throat and glared at everyone. “Who was it……? The bastard talking during my class. If you’ve got so much energy, how about I put together a special menu just for you? Huh!?” Anviet’s tone was filled with menacing intensity. He usually stood out for being rough around the edges, but today his intimidating presence was especially strong. He was like a wounded beast, determined at all cost not let anyone bring up his personal affairs. There was no way an ordinary student could talk back when confronted by the serious intimidation of an S-rank magician. Despite being incredibly curious about the girl, they had no choice but to keep their mouths shut. “──But, before speaking that much, why did you bring your daughter to class?” However, Ruri, who was also an S-rank magician, wasn’t bound to the same limitation. With a half-lidded gaze, she casually pointed out what everyone else was dying to ask. “Guh……I told you, she’s not my daughter!” “Then why did you bring her……?” “I didn’t bring her! She followed me here on her own!” “Huh, but then why were you holding her hand…...?” “If I didn’t, she’s trip and fall right away!” “Then that backpack is……” “I can’t just leave a kid in the training grounds for over an hour!”
While yelling in frustration, Anviet took out a cute-patterned plastic sheet from the backpack hanging on his shoulder and spread it on the ground in the shade. He made Surya sit there, pulled a hat from the backpack and placed it on top of her head, and took out a water bottle and a bag of portioned sweets. After doing all of that, Anviet glared at Surya with a demonic expression. “Listen, don’t you dare get in my way, got it?” “Yeah.” “Stay hydrated!” “Yeah.” “We just ate lunch, so wait a while before eating the snacks!” “Yeah.” Surya obediently nodded to what Anviet had said. She didn’t seem particularly frightened at all. On the contrary, she looked somewhat happy. “……Are sure she isn’t your daughter?” “I told you already!” Anviet forcefully replied to Ruri’s accusatory question. His intensity was impressive, but his persuasiveness was nonexistent. At that moment, Surya tugged on the hem of Anviet’s clothes. “Papa, Papa.” “……Huh? What did I say about not interrupting the class?” “Can you take Su to the bathroom?” “…………” Anviet, after hesitating for a moment, glared at the students. “……Pair up and start stretching! When you’re done with that, run three laps around the track!” After giving his instructions, he held up Surya under his arm and ran towards the entrance of the training hall.
“…………” “…………” “Saika-sama.” “O-Oh, right.” The students were left dumbfounded as they watched them go. Then, Mushiki, along with Kuroe, began stretching as instructed. ◇ ──Three days had passed. Surya continued to follow Anviet around, calling him “Papa, Papa” each time. Anviet, who was foul-mouthed but fundamentally diligent and surprisingly caring, couldn’t ignore Surya and reluctantly continued to look after her. As a result, sightings of them together became commonplace throughout <Garden>. And the previously baseless rumor of Anviet having an illegitimate child now seemed like an established fact. One day after school. “Excuse us──oh, wow.” As Mushiki and Kuroe were visiting the staff room in the central school building, Mushiki couldn’t help but widen his eyes and let out a short exclamation. <Garden>’s staff room was designed to have wider space for an individual than in a regular school, with the area separated by partitions……but Anviet Svarner-sensei’s booth was still a fancy sight to behold. A computer was set up at the center of the desk, with various documents and Anviet’s favorite mug beside it. Glittering stickers were placed on the computer and mouse, and a child-like drawing of Anviet was taped to the partition wall. “Huh……? Kuga and Karasuma, huh. What do you want?” From that weary voice, he seemed to notice their arrival. Anviet, who was operating his computer with a somewhat tired expression, glanced over to them. Looking closely, faint dark shadows could be seen under his eyes.
Next to Anviet’s seat was a child-size chair and table where Surya was soundly sleeping. Apparently, with a colored pencil in hand and half-finished drawing under her cheeks, she had been in the middle of working on her next project. “Ah, yes.” Mushiki briefly replied as he turned it over to Kuroe. Kuroe gave a small nod as if she took the baton from Mushiki. “We’ve come to deliver the investigation results regarding Surya-san.” “……! Did you find something!?” Anviet raised his voice as he abruptly sat up, but then quickly covered his mouth after looking at the sleeping Surya. And then, after breathing a sigh of relief over Surya still being asleep, he continued in a softer tone. “……That was close. Don’t startle me like that when she’s just fallen asleep.” “You’ve completely become a parent now.” “Shut up. So, what are the results of the investigation?” Anviet urged them to continue. Kuroe answered while taking out a small tablet. “First, the heretic magicians chasing after Surya-san are members of an organization called <Salix>.” “……Oh?” “Uhm, sorry, but what is <Salix>……?” When Mushiki asked, Kuroe replied without looking up from the tablet screen. “It’s one of the organizations formed by heretic magicians. It’s medium-sized and led by former A-rank magician Doug Willows. Their main activity is dispatching personnel to gangs and illegal organizations──essentially, they act as bodyguards for the underworld. Even basic magic is seen as miraculous by outsiders. ……Of course, it’s an unacceptable practice for us, but in reality, we have yet to be able to address it completely.” “I see……”
As Mushiki murmured with a trouble look, Anviet nodded his chin as if urging her to continue. Kuroe then resumed reading the report. “We have interrogated the captured members, but they couldn’t answer why they were after Surya-san. To be more precise, they don’t even seem to understand what is going on.” “Huh? What do you mean by that?” “Likely, in order to prevent information from leaking, they had their relevant memories processed to be erased when captured by the enemy.” “Memory processing……? They went that far to hide the reason why they were chasing her? Who is she really?” Anviet said that while look at Surya, who was peacefully snoring. “We’re still looking into that. We still haven’t identified her yet. However──” “However?” “According to the results of the genetic test, it is highly unlikely Surya has any blood relation to Knight Anviet.” “……Well, I figured as much.” Anviet folded his arms while responding to Kuroe’s words. Anviet, who had denied any parental relationship with Surya at every opportunity, didn’t seem too surprised that the results came as expected. But──for some reason, his expression seemed a tad different than usual. “Anviet-san, could it be──” “If you dare to say something like, “Are you feeling lonely?”, I’ll send electricity through you from head to toe.” “……Are you hungry? Should I go buy something?” Mushiki quickly changed the topic to gloss over the issue. Anviet seemed to notice it was forced, but without pushing the matter further, he let out a faint sigh. “……Well, I get the gist of it. Let me know if you find anything else.”
“Yes. Then, we’ll be on our way.” “Ah, wait a moment.” Anviet called out to them just as they were about to leave. “Sorry, but I still have some work to do. Can you take her to the night duty room and let her sleep there?” “Huh? Oh, sure. That’s fine……but isn’t it okay here?” “What? It’s not good for your body to sleep face down on a desk. It makes blood clots all the more likely, Don underestimate economy class syndrome. You guys should be careful too.” “Y-Yes……” After hearing a sound rebuttal, Mushiki couldn’t help but agree with sweat dripping down. “Uhm……well then, Kuroe.” “Yes,” Kuroe seemed to understand Mushiki’s intention as she gently lifted Surya’s body. And just like that, Mushiki lower his knees as Surya was settled onto his back. “Here we go……then” Mushiki hoisted Surya on his back and stood up, placing more strength into his legs. “Please excuse us.” “Sure.” Anviet waved good-bye as they left. Mushiki lowered his head slightly and left the staff room together with Kuroe. If he wasn’t mistaken, the night duty room was at the end of the first floor of the central school building. Mushiki walked slowly down the hallway, taking careful steps in order to not wake Surya. The time was 18:00. Since classes had ended for a while now, there weren’t many people around. The setting sun shined through the array of windows, creating a fantastical sight by painting the hallway orange. “Are you okay, Mushiki-san?”
Kuroe quietly asked as they were walking side by side. “Eh?” “Even though she’s a child, an unconscious person’s body feels heavier than usual.” “Oh──” After hearing this, Mushiki gently shifted his body to adjust Surya’s position on his back. “Don’t worry I can manage this much. Maybe my training in <Garden> has given me a bit more muscle.” While he said that jokingly, Kuroe lowered her eyes and replied with, “Perhaps.” “Time flies, doesn’t it? It’s been nearly three months since Mushiki-san arrived at <Garden>. ──It’s been hectic lately, so it doesn’t even feel like it’s been that long.” “That’s true──” Mushiki let out a sigh that was filled with emotion. Certainly, since fusing with Saika and arriving at <Garden>, so much had happened that they barely had time to breathe. The mysterious attacker targeting Saika, the struggle against <Palace> due to Tokishima Kurara’s secret maneuvers, and the incident at <Ark> with Ruri’s engagement trouble. It wasn’t an exaggeration to say Mushiki had been involved in worldaltering events more than once. “But magicians have always lived by working behind the scenes, right?” “Although that is true, the events during the past few months have been unprecedented in the history of <Garden>. After all, mythical-rank Destruction Factors have been appearing one after the another.” “Ah, I see……” Now that she mentioned it, Mushiki realized he had an unbelievable timing when coming to <Garden>. “It’s no exaggeration to say that we wouldn’t have been able to overcome those situations if Saika-sama wasn’t here. ──Once again, I want to express my gratitude.” “No, it’s not like that.” When Mushiki said that, Kuroe continued on.
“Besides, even for me, these past three months have been nothing but new experiences. After all, this is my first time attending <Garden> as a student. It has been quite refreshing……and enjoyable. ──To the extent that I wouldn’t mind living like this for a while longer.” “Kuroe……” After Mushiki said this name, Kuroe slightly shook her head. “Don’t worry. I haven’t forgotten our goal. I assume it’s the same for you, Mushiki-san?” In response to Kuroe’s question, Mushiki agreed and said a decisive, “──Yes.” “My goal remains unchanged. I──want to separate myself from Saika-san and meet her again. Not through a mirror or through another body, but as one person meeting another.” “────” The moment Mushiki said that, Kuroe’s brows twitched as she hurriedly looked around. “Ah──” Seeing that quick response, Mushiki choked up a little. Even though school was empty during afterschool hours, they were still at the central school building. There was no guarantee that no one would overhear them. Of course, it’s unlikely anyone would take what was just said seriously, but it didn’t mean they could be careless in spreading such information. “I’m sorry. That was careless of me.” “……No, that’s not it. Did you hear something just now?” “Huh?” Mushiki blinked his eyes in surprise. “No, I didn’t hear anything……” “Is that so.” After looking around once more, Kuroe let out a thin sigh. “My apologizes. My nerves might have been a little too oversensitive.” After saying that, she cleared her throat as if to regain her composure.
“──Now, there’s a lot going on today, but we mustn’t forget our daily routines. After we leave Surya-san in the night duty room, let’s continue from where we left off yesterday.” “Yes. Actually, I just made a new card game with Ruri.” “Who’s talking about the Saika-sama card game?” “Ah……sorry.” After Mushiki apologized, Kuroe let out a sigh. “……Just one game. Then we train.” “Huh? Ah──sure!” Mushiki was left surprised, but strongly replied as they walked down the hallway dyed in the color of the setting sun. ◇ The next morning. Mushiki, who woke up a little earlier than usual──frowned from feeling a faint sense of discomfort. “…………” A question floated in his head as his hazy consciousness was slowly waking up. However, he didn’t particularly have any bad dreams. Although the morning sun shining though his window was stronger than usual, it wasn’t as if he had woken up to the sound of construction work happening right next to his dormitory. He didn’t exactly know what felt wrong. As time passed, his consciousness gradually became clearer. ──The first thing he noticed was the smell. It was a floral, soap-like……just like a faintly sweet scent. A fragrance, which seemed out of place for the boys dormitory, tickled Mushiki’s nostrils. “Hm……” He slowly opened his eyes like a bee drawn to honey.
And then. “………………Huh?” The next moment, Mushiki froze on his bed. But that wasn’t surprising at all. In more ways than one, an incredible sight was unfolding right before his eyes. Next to Mushiki on the cramped bed, a girl was sleeping and softly snoring. That alone was shocking enough for Mushiki’s heart to almost leap out of his mouth. His heartbeat, which had been slowly pulsating from just waking up, began to violently race due to the unexpected situation. But──that wasn’t all. There was something more. That wasn’t the only astonishing situation. There was something else that made Mushiki so confused. The question of the identity of this girl. With his vision trembling slightly alongside his heartbeat, Mushiki took another look at the girl’s features. Sunshine colored hair that shimmered as if bathing in the morning glow coming from the window. Graceful facial features that could only be thought as possible from receiving the blessing of the gods. Both eyes were closed, so it wasn’t possible to look into her gaze. ──But Mushiki, could clearly imagine the color of the pupils hidden behind her eyelids. The reason was almost deceptively simple. Mushiki had stared at this girl’s face for almost every day. Yes, in other words, she was── “……Hmm, hmm……” Just as Mushiki’s brain was about to draw a conclusion, the girl stirred slightly and slowly opened her eyelids. It was exactly as Mushiki had imagined. Her phantasmal, vividly colorful eyes stared at Mushiki at such a close distance that their breaths overlapped.
“Oh……good morning, Mushiki. What a lovely morning.” And then, the girl──Kuozaki Saika, faintly smiled. “…………” Mushiki’s eyes widened in astonishment. Unable make a sound, he rolled backwards and fell off the bed. “Ouch……!” “Oh dear.” A dull thud echoed as the pain reached his back. This apparently wasn’t a dream. As he watched the scattered dust glisten in the sunlight, Mushiki looked up at the sky in disbelief. “Are you okay, Mushiki?” From the top of his bed, Saika’s face peeked out. Looking down from above, she was just like an angel. “Saika……san? H-How──” Face with this surreal scene, Mushiki spoke as if in a daze. However, his question was natural to ask. “How──are you here!?” Mushiki uttered those words staring at those vividly colorful eyes. Mushiki was aware that it was a naïve question to ask, but he couldn’t think of any other way to express it. Then, as if only realizing it after Mushiki had mentioned it, Saika blinked her eyes several times. “Ah……now that you mention it. This is quite strange.” “S-Saika-san doesn’t know what happened either?”
“It’s a shame, but no. And……my consciousness seems a bit hazy. There are parts of my memory that aren’t clear.” While saying this, Saika lightly touched her forehead. It didn’t seem like a particularly serious issue. Rather than having an actual headache, it appeared more like a gesture to make the concept of her hazy consciousness easier to understand. “──A-Are you okay!?” However, Mushiki jumped straight up as if completely losing his head. There was shame felt from his own inadequacy. He had been so surprised by the situation of being separated from Saika that he hadn’t even considered how it might affect her. Defusing with Saika, with both of them existing in parallel, was Mushiki’s long-cherished wish and deepest desire. Whatever the reason, if it had been achieved, there was a need for rejoicing rather than grieving. However, that was only truly the case if the two them could be separated without any issues. “Anyway, let’s check if there’s any issues with your body. To what extent is your consciousness hazy!? Can you move your limbs properly!? Are there any painful spots──” Then, Mushiki, who had been talking so rapidly, ceased speaking. It wasn’t because Mushiki realized there was something wrong with Saika or his own body. It was a much simpler, deeper, and more fundamental reason. Yes, until that very moment, Mushiki hadn’t realized── ──Saika, who was sitting up in the bed, wasn’t wearing any clothes. “Ah, ah, ah……” Mushiki’s eyes were pried open as much as possible. He let out trembling, intermittent sounds from his throat. He could tell that his face was turning bright red. It felt that smoke might even coming out from the top of his head. Her slender neck, glossy collarbones, and delicate shoulders── Either fortunately or unfortunately, due to the blanket covering her body, only that much was exposed to Mushiki’s eyes. But for him, it was already more than enough stimulation. The outline of her body shown through the fabric excited his vivid imagination to its utmost limit. But it didn’t end there.
“Hmm? Is there something strange going on?” Saika wondered, seemingly puzzled by Mushiki’s behavior. She then began to twist and stare at her own body. At that moment, a grave matter occurred when she lifted both arms. The blanket that barely clung to her body fell, exposing her white skin to the air. “Ah.” “──────!?” The moment Mushiki’s brain recognized what happened, his body reflexively jerked back── As a result, he strongly hit the back of his head and passed out for a while.
◇ “Ruriiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiii!” About an hour had passed since the morning commotion. Mushiki, who had regained consciousness and somehow managed to get ready, screamed while running across the grounds of <Garden>. He was on the main street extending from the dormitories in the southern area to the central school build. Although it was still a bit early, some students could be seen here and there. They looked at Mushiki running and shouting on the paved road with either amusement or suspicion. However, Mushiki didn’t care about the other students viewing him oddly. Or more accurately, he didn’t have time to worry about them. While relying on raising his voice, he desperately ran in search of the person he was looking for. Then, as if Mushiki’s prayers had been answered, he soon saw a familiar figure up ahead. ──Needless to say, it was his younger sister, Fuyajo Ruri. “……Why are you shouting someone’s name this early in the morning? It’s embarrassing, so can you stop it?” “Ruri!” Upon recognizing her, Mushiki rushed to Ruri with great enthusiasm and grabbed her by the shoulders. “I’m glad! I’ve been looking everywhere for you! I wanted to see you, Ruri!” “W-What’s……going on?” Ruri replied back with a look that seemed both overwhelmed by his eagerness and also somewhat pleased. “Geez……if you wanted to walk to school together, you should have just told me sooner.” “No, that’s not it!” “Then what is it?” Ruri suddenly became displeased, but Mushiki didn’t have time to address her concerns carefully. He continued to speak anxiously.
“I’m sorry! But this is huge! I-I don’t know what to do……!” “…..? What happened?” Ruri furrowed her brow suspiciously. However, Mushiki didn’t need to explain. The reason was simple. In the next moment, there was no need for an explanation. “──Hi, Ruri. Good morning. You’re up early today. How admirable.” That’s right. From behind Mushiki, Saika suddenly appeared and waved her hand at Ruri. Of course, she wasn’t in the same state from when she first woke up. She had already changed into <Garden>’s school uniform. ──Mushiki was grateful that they had kept a spare uniform in his room just in case. “Ah! Good morning, Witch-sama.” Noticing Saika’s presence, Ruri turned around and politely returned the greeting. “………………Huh?” Ruri, having noticed something was amiss, alternated looking back and forth between Mushiki and Saika with a bewildered expression. And then. “──Uwaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaah! It’s Witch-sama!?” She let out a tremendous scream as if she had just seen a ghost. Nevertheless, it was natural for her to react this way. After all, Mushiki and Saika, who were supposed to have fused, were now standing side by side. The unusual situation attracted the attention of nearby students. “Uhm, what? What’s going on?” “Looks like it’s Fuyajo-san.” “Oh, it’s just Fuyajo.” “Did Witch-sama trim her hair or something?”
“No, from this amount of tension……her hair ornament must be different than usual.” Somehow, everyone seemed to accept the situation quickly. After bowing to Saika, they resumed going to school. It was as if this had already become a regular event. Well, this was a welcome response since they didn’t want to attract too much attention at the moment. Mushiki followed the two of them from the main road and entered into the shade provided by trees. Ruri, who had regained a little of her composure since earlier, still had a bewildered expression on her face while turning to look at Mushiki. “D-Don’t surprise me like that. ……So, what’s going on, Mushiki? Does this mean you were able to sperate from Witch-sama……?” “No, I don’t know what happened either. But when I woke up this morning, it was already like this……” “Huh, so it’s like a bug that got fixed after rebooting?” Ruri furrowed her eyebrows as sweat dripped down her cheeks. Well, what she felt was certainly understandable. Even Mushiki and Saika, who were involved in this situation, couldn’t fathom what had just transpired. It’s only natural that Ruri would be left perplexed. Then, Saika apologetically shook her head. “I’m sorry for surprising you. Originally, I should be the one explaining the circumstances, but my memory is quite hazy. Before I knew it, I was in this state.” “──! N-No, Witch-sama, it’s not your fault! Regardless of the reason, it’s good that you’ve returned to normal!” Ruri responded in a flustered manner. Indeed, she had a point. Separating their bodies had been a major goal for Mushiki and Saika. However, even though their wish had been granted, Mushiki couldn’t feel completely happy about it. ──Once beings have fused, they can’t be separated so half-heartedly. That was something Saika herself had told Mushiki after they had fused. It wasn’t absolutely impossible, but even with Saika’s knowledge and power as the world’s strongest magician, it wasn’t easy and required fulfilling several conditions.
That’s why Mushiki vowed to fight and protect the world and her body as Kuozaki Saika until Saika could finish the necessary preparations. To think it could be achieved in this manner without even knowing the cause── “──What’s wrong, Mushiki? You don’t seem very happy even though you’ve returned to normal.” However, Mushiki’s worries and thoughts were instantly dispelled. Saika mischievously smiled and stroked Mushiki’s chin as if she was soothing a puppy. “Ahhhhhhh.” Overwhelmed by her sweet caress, Mushiki couldn’t help but let his voice leak out as his face flushed red. For the past few months, he had been looking at her reflection in the mirror for almost every day. However, facing her like this, talking to her, even being touched like this was a completely different type of stimulation. Incidentally, Ruri blushed and covered her mouth, stammering “W-Wow…….” as she watched the unexpectedly intimate exchange unfolding between her brother and the person she admired. “Certainly, there are several things to be concerned about, but for now let’s rejoice over our reunion. ──Or am I the only one who was looking forward to seeing you like this?” “N-No way……I’ve been waiting for this moment too……” “Fufu, I’m honored. You’ve been such a great help. If there is anything I can do for you, please just let me know.” “I-I, um……” Mushiki struggled to continued speaking as his expression turned intoxicated. However. “──What are you doing outside so early in the morning, Mushiki-san?” The voice echoing from behind pulled his sinking consciousness back from its murky state.
“…………!” With his shoulders startled, he straightened his posture. It wasn’t just the surprise of suddenly being called upon that affect him. That voice held a very special significance for Mushiki. He hurriedly turned around and saw Kuroe, who was standing there as expected with her eyes half-closed. “N-No Kuroe, this is──” Just as he started to explain, he suddenly stopped himself. It was neither because there was no room for explanation, nor was it from not being able to find the words to speak. The reason was much simpler. He had just realized he was witnessing a clearly bizarre sight. “──K-Kuroe!? What are you doing here……?” Mushiki’s eyes widened as much as possible in shock, and he shrieked so much that turned his voice inside-out. “Well, I’m also a student of <Garden> as well, so I am on my way to school──” Kuroe replied in her usual indifferent manner, but then it seemed she noticed the person standing opposite of Mushiki midway through her sentence. Her shoulders twitched, and she fell silent. Saika, having noticed Kuroe as well, cheerfully waved her hand and said, “Hello.” “Kuroe……? Is there something wrong?” Seeing Kuroe’s reaction, Ruri curiously asked. But it was only natural for her to be curious. Ruri believed that Kuroe and Saika were two different people. “…………” But Kuroe herself didn’t share this view. Silently staring at Saika, she slowly raised both of her hands and began to gently touch her cheeks. “Kuroe. It tickles. Kuroe……?”
“…………” No, it wasn’t just touching. Gradually, she applied more pressure. And eventually, she started kneading Saika’s cheeks like an udon artisan. It was almost as if she was trying to expose a disguise commonly worn in anime. “Guh. Mugyu…...” “K-Kuroe! What are you doing!” “Witch-sama’s cheeks are going to be pulled apart!” Depending on how one listened, Ruri stopped Kuroe while describing it like she was eating an exquisite dish. However, even after restrained from behind, Kuroe continued to knead the empty air. “Mushiki-san, Ruri-san.” “Y-Yes?” “What……?” “What kind of game are you playing this time? Are you playing house with a doll that looks just like Saika-sama?” “What are you talking about, Kuroe? This is the real deal!” “What the hell has gotten into you!?” Mushiki and Ruri could help but raise their voices at the unusual behavior displayed from the normally calm Kuroe. ……Upon closer inspection, although her facial expression hadn’t changed, her pupils had completely dilated. It was a little scary. However, her reaction wasn’t entirely unreasonable. Yes, both Kuroe and Saika were present at this location. Each was speaking and acting independently. However, this seemingly ordinary scene was even more bizarre than Mushiki and Saika coexisting side by side. That’s because Karasuma Kuroe was the name of the faux body imbued by Saika’s consciousness.
In other words, this situation was as if there were two Saikas existing simultaneously. “…………Hmm.” A few minutes later, Kuroe, who seemed have regained her composure, was released from Ruri’s restraint and respectfully bowed to Saika. “Good morning, Saika-sama. This is the first time I’ve seen you and Mushiki-san together like this.” “Yes. Good morning, Kuroe. You’ve been through a lot as well. Thank you.” In response to Kuroe’s greeting, Saika offered her words of appreciation. At first glance, there seemed to be no further issues. In fact, Ruri, who was unaware of Kuroe’s true identity, seemed relieved that Kuroe had returned back to normal. However, Mushiki continued to be in the same state of confusion from earlier. It was already an unusual situation for two Saikas to be facing each other, but both had exchanged greetings as separate individuals. Was he still in a dream? Mushiki pinched his cheek with all his strength to confirm. It hurt quite a bit. “──So then, Mushiki-san. What exactly happened? The fusion technique’s cancellation shouldn’t be easy to accomplish.” “Huh? Ah……yes. Actually──” When asked by Kuroe, Mushiki briefly explained the events of this morning. Well, he wasn’t sure whether the word explained was appropriate or not. After all, the story could be summed up in two sentences. They woke up separated this morning. They didn’t know the cause. “……I see.” After hearing the story, Kuroe placed her hand on her chin and let out a small groan. “I understand the rough summary events. Let’s go to Knight Elluc before class starts.” “To Elluc-sama’s place?” As Ruri titled her head, Kuroe nodded and continued.
“While it’s delightful that Saika-sama and Mushiki-san have been separated, it impossible for the fusion technique to unravel naturally. There’s no doubt that some force was at work, even if it’s not apparent. Since we don’t know what kind of impact it could have on the two of you, I think there we should at least get a physical examination from the medical department. ──Of course, since Knight Elluc is unaware of your fusion, we’ll need to think of a suitable reason.” “……That’s certainly true.” Ruri agreed with a grave expression. There was a hint of embarrassment in her voice. It was as if she was ashamed of not reaching the same conclusion quickly enough after being surprised by the sudden appearance of both Mushiki and Saika. “I agree with Kuroe as well. What do you think, Witch-sama?” “Ah, sure. I don’t feel any abnormalities in my body for now, but if you guys think so, I’ll leave it up to you.” Saika nodded in agreement to what Ruri had asked. In response, Kuroe offered an even deeper bow. “Thank you. ──But before that, I’ll confirm what we can do now.” “Confirm?” “Yes.” Kuroe briefly replied and stepped forward towards Mushiki. Huh?” With fluid movements, she grabbed Mushiki’s head and brought his lips closer. “Uwaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaahhh──!?” Ruri screamed as she wedged herself between the two. “Hey……what are you doing all of a sudden!?” “What else? It’s to verify the existence conversion caused by supplying magical power.” Kuroe stated so as if it were obvious.
“This is to confirm if Saika-sama and Mushiki-san are completely separated. If nothing happens, then all is well. But if there is any change in Mushiki-san’s appearance due to this, it might lead to a solution.” “That……that might be true, but still!” Although Ruri raised her voice, she still seemed to think Kuroe’s argument was calid. She scratched her head in distress. And after a few seconds, she raised her head as if having made up her mind. “……A-Alright, I’ll do it!” “If someone other than me performs the procedure, we’ll need to apply a spell first.” “No, that’s fine! This isn’t about efficiency!” At this point, Saika raised her voice with an amused grin. “Hmm. Should I give it a try then?” “──That’s not allowed!” In response, the voices of Kuroe, Ruri, and Mushiki splendidly overlapped. Well, even though they said the same thing, Kuroe’s ration seemed to be based on, “We don’t know what will happen if two people with unknown conditions exchange magical power.” Ruri probably meant, “Witch-sama, you shouldn’t sell her lips so cheaply!” And Mushiki meant, “I haven’t prepared myself yet!” Their intentions were all quite different. And then──it happened as Saika amusingly smiled at the trio’s intensity. An announcement began to flow form the speakers installed throughout <Garden>. “──We are calling for the headmaster. Please come to the central command center immediately. Knight Elluc Flaer is waiting for you. I repeat──” “Huh……?” They all look at each other from the strange timing of this summons. “──Ah, sorry for calling you out, Saika.” The one who greeted Mushiki’s group at the central command center was a petite girl who was oddly dressed in a white lab coat over light innerwear.
She looked around 13 or 14 years old, but everyone in <Garden> knew that her appearance didn’t match her actual age. Elluc Flaer. A member of the <Knight Order> and a senior magician second only to Saika. “No, it’s not a problem. We were actually planning to come to you.” “Hmm, did you need something?” “Something like that. ──But first, let’s hear what you have to say. What happened?” “Oh──” As Saika urged her to speak, Elluc scanned Mushiki’s group and wryly smiled. “You’ve got quite the large group here.” While saying that, she slightly shrugged. Mushiki and the others apologetically drooped their shoulders. “Ah……sorry. We were just on our way to school together.” “If it bothers you, we can step out.” “No, I don’t care. This will be known soon anyway. It’s too big of a matter to try and hide.” Elluc crossed her arms and let out a thin sigh. “Well, it’d be faster to just show you. ──Big sis.” Elluc raised her eyes to an empty part of the room and called out. “Yes!” Then, as if answering the call, a lone girl appeared above the large table in the command center. She had long silver hair and pale white skin. Her surprisingly large bust was covered by a robelike designed outfit. “Silber──onee-chan.” When Mushiki said that, the girl playfully twisted her body mid-air and smiled contentedly. “Great! Well done, Mukkun! I’m everyone’s big sister, Silber!”
After saying that, she spun once more in the air before descending to join the group. <Garden>’s management AI, Silber. More precisely it was the appearance of the communications interface she operated for interpersonal communication. After being damaged in the previous Kurara incident, she had been undergoing restoration work for a while, but she had finally been restored just the other day. She was a highly-advanced artificial intelligence in charge of <Garden>’s security and management. But for some reason, she identified herself as an older sister so much that she wouldn’t respond properly unless called onee-san. Mushiki couldn’t help but wonder how an AI would reach this conclusion. “Big sis, show them the video in question.” “Understood, El-chan!” When Elluc spoke, Silber raised both of her hands with an exaggerated gravitas. Then, sparkling effects surround them as a three-dimensional image took shape above the table. It was a scene from outside. There appeared to be a huge crater-like traces spread on the ground. “……This is?” As Saika curiously asked, Elluc answered while keeping her eyes on the image. “It’s an urban area in America. Geographically, it’s somewhere between Baltimore and Philadelphia.” “…………Huh?” Unable to understand what Elluc had just said, Mushiki couldn’t help but reply like that. But that was only natural. After all, this didn’t look like a cityscape at all. However, Elluc calmly continued as if she had expected such a reaction. “At 4:30 this morning, a mysterious magical reaction was detected in a city on the eastern coast of the United States. ──This was filmed as the aftermath.” “Wha…...?” “What does this mean……?” Seeing Mushiki’s group left in shock, Elluc informed them once more. “──An entire city disappeared in an instant.”
Chapter 3: Did You Want to See Maid-san? “I am gentle and generous, but……there are three things in this world I cannot stand.” Magician Doug Willows slouched in his chair, idly closing and opening the lid of a metal lighter held in his hand. He was a man in his mid-thirties, dressed in a dark, expensive-looking suit. His sharp eyes and hollow cheekbones gave him a somewhat nervous appearance. “……! ……!” In front of him stood a man, bounded hand and foot to a chair, with a gag in his mouth. Tears filled his eyes and he occasionally let out a muffled plea that rattled the chair. However, Willows displayed no signs of listening to his appeal. The interrogation was already over. The man was here because he hadn’t given a satisfactory answer during the questioning. There was nothing left to listen. “First is margarine toast. Second is a woman who reeks of perfume. And the last is──” Willows narrowed his razor-sharp eyes and snapped the lighter shut with a click. “Incompetent subordinates who can’t even babysit properly.” At that moment, one stroke of the world crest appeared at the tip of his finger. At the same time, a thin, thread-like string of light extended out from there. As the light touched the man bounded to the chair, he violently shuddered. “────────!!” A muffled scream drowned out by the gag had echoed throughout the room. As the man’s body convulsed, the chair’s legs carved out a violent rhythm and clattered noisily. Willows’ First Manifestation directly damaged the nerves of the target connected by using his magical power as a pathway. It felt like a barbed rod had been suddenly been inserted inside the body. The excruciating pain was beyond description. However, Willows had no intention of killing this man. He had certainly made the worst possible blunder, and Willows was extremely pissed. But Willows was a businessman before he was a magician. No matter how enraged, he never forgot taking profit and loss into account. Punishment was necessary, but letting his emotions dictate killing a subordinate wouldn’t gain him a single penny. Rather than killing for temporary satisfaction, it was more profitable to make them work as if their lives depended on it.
“…………! ────” Before long, the man lowered his head. He had apparently fainted. Worse than death, but not lethal if done correctly. Willows was extremely fond of his spells. Pain breeds fear, and fear became a collar. Willows believed that instilling fear was essential for controlling an organization. But──that lone wasn’t enough. It wouldn’t be sufficient. Slowly lifting up his head, Willows turned his gaze towards the subordinates lined up against the wall of the room. “──Do we still not know the whereabouts of the Child of Fortune?” “Yes……we are still currently searching with all our efforts.” A faint hint of fear was revealed in the voice of the subordinate who responded. However, that was only natural. After all, the Child of Fortune, who was arguably the most important person for both Willows and the organization, had escaped during the transfer. Moreover, they had lost contact with the subordinates responsible for tracking her. Were they attacked by someone? Have they fallen victim to being spirited away? Or had the subordinates conspired to steal the Child of Fortune for themselves? In any case, it was still the worst possible situation. With a deepening his voice to strengthen the sense of intimidation, Willow issued his orders to the subordinates. “Find her. It’s impossible for a human to simply vanish. Find the Child of Fortune by any means necessary. And the same goes for whoever was insolent enough to attempt stealing my fortune.” “Y-Yes, sir……!” In response to Willows’ commands, the lined-up subordinates replied with tense looks. And then──at that very moment. The door to the room was suddenly opened as a young subordinate rushed in while looking flustered. “B-Boss! It’s an emergency!” “What happened?”
Willows replied with an extremely calmed voice. Although he was surprised, he was aware that an open display of shock could gradually chip away at this reputation. “We found the location of the Child of Fortune! And the ones who attacked Jeff and the others……!” “Oh? That’s excellent news. So where is the Child of Fortune?” When Willows asked, the subordinate hesitated for a moment before answering. “──<Garden>──” “What?” “<It’s <Void Garden>……! The Child of Fortune appears to have been taken away by <Garden> Knight Anviet Svarner……!” “────” At those words, the room fell into complete silence. The lighter slipped from Willows’ hand and dropped to the ground with a dry sound. “<Garden>…… you said?” The magician training institution <Void Garden>. If Willows and his group were considered outlaws as heretic magicians, then the <Garden> was a militant organization that could be likened to a regular army. The title Knight indicated a member who was among the highestranking magicians within the group. And above all else, if <Garden> was connected to this matter, it was almost certain that woman would be involved as well. <Garden>’s headmaster and the world strongest magician, the Witch of Brilliant Colors, Kuozaki Saika──” “…………────” As soon as he became aware of that name, a hoarse breath escaped from the depths of his throat. Accompanying this, a wave of uneasy spread among his subordinates. Things were taking a turn for the worst. Willows took a deep breath to calm down and cleared his throat to regain his subordinates’ attention. Their shoulders shook faintly as they straightened their postures.
The opponent was <Garden>. To be honest, they were a group he never wanted to get involved with. However, no matter who the opponent, he couldn’t afford to show any fear to his subordinates. Moreover, they couldn’t afford to lose the Child of Fortune right now. Willows pondered with his eyes lowered, and then he eventually muttered a name. “──Contact Zhuyan.” “……! Did you say……Zhuyan? His subordinates’ eyes widened in surprise after hearing this order. It was only natural. The name Willows had mentioned belonged to an infamous freelancer among heretic magicians. “Yes. I don’t care how it’s done. Convey that the reward will be paid in any price asked if the Child of Fortune is safely brought back.” “But that person──” Do you intend to make me repeat myself?” When Willows directed a sharp glare while speaking, the subordinate replied with a barely audible “No, sir……” and left the room. ◇ “──Let’s sort of out this situation.” In the headmaster office located at the top floor of <Garden>’s central school building, Kuroe quietly spoke. The only people present in the room currently was Mushiki, Saika, and Kuroe. Mushiki and Saika were seated on the sofas facing each other while Kuroe stood beside them. In the headmaster's office, located on the top floor of the <Garden>'s central building, Kuroe spoke quietly. Present in the room were only Mushiki, Saika, and Kuroe. Mushiki and Saika were seated on the sofas facing each other, while Kuroe stood beside them. Several hours had based since they had been summoned by Elluc. The students were supposed to be in the middle of classes right now. However, given the circumstances, Mushiki and the others were absent from their classes today.
Of course, Mushiki fully understood the importance of daily lessons. But there were too many things that needed to be confirmed as soon as possible. Incidentally, Ruri was the only one still attending her classes. There were several matters involving Saika, Kuroe and Mushiki in this conversation that they didn’t want Ruri to hear. ……When thinking of the face Ruri would make when attending class without them, Mushiki felt a chill run down his spine. “When I woke up this morning, Saika-sama was next to me. ──Mushiki-san, you’re certain there’s no mistaking this.” “Y-Yes.” When Mushiki answered, Kuroe turned her gaze to Saika. “Saika-sama as well. Is there any discrepancy in what was just stated?” “Oh. When I woke up, I was laying on a bed in Mushiki’s room. I’m sorry, but I don’t remember what happened while I was asleep.” “I see.” Kuroe placed her hand against her chin and fell silent, seemingly unable to identify the cause even with her knowledge. For a few seconds, silence flowed through the headmaster’s office. Mushiki felt a slight tension as he couldn’t help but let his gaze wander. “Oh?” Then, as his eyes met Saika’s, she winked with a mischievous smile. “────” Thump, his heart skipped a beat. Mushiki half-consciously stood up form his seat and knelled before Saika. “U-Uhmmmm, Saika-san.” “What is it? Please speak clearly.” “P-Please allow me to──” “That’s enough.”
Just as Mushiki was about to speak, he felt a tight grip pull on the back of his neck. “Gueh!” Caught off guard, a pathetic sound escaped from his throat. Mushiki furrowed his brow and turned to Kuroe. “What are you doing, Kuroe……?” “That’s my line. What were you planning to do?” “Well, of course……I wanted to keep our promise.” Mushiki said that while acting like a cat who was just been pinched on the neck. Right, after they had fused due to the fusion spell, Mushiki had made one request to Saika. ──If they successfully separated and returned to their original bodies, he had asked for the right to purpose to Saika. And Saika had accepted with a fearless smile. From that moment on, this became Mushiki’s ultimate goal. “…………” Kuroe let out a sigh as if expecting this and then continued with a somewhat exasperated tone. “Of course, I remember that promise. And it can be said that this situation somewhat fulfills the conditions. However, the cause for the separation is still left unknown, and there is an ongoing incident that requires our attention. Don’t we have more pressing matters to deal with first?” “……!” Her words left Mushiki breathless. She was right. The promise was just for the right to purpose. Whether she would accept or not was a completely separate matter. It wouldn’t make sense to rush without considering Saika’s feelings.” “You’re right. It’s just as Kuroe says. I apologize for my lack of consideration.” “Do you understand now?” “Yes. It would be disrespectful to propose to Saika-san without even preparing a ring……”
“So, you didn’t understand.” Kuroe let out a thin sigh. “Mushiki-san.” “Yes. What is──” As Kuroe briefly spoke, she lifted Mushiki’s chin and kissed him. “…………!?” The movement was so smooth that Mushiki only realized the soft touch of her lips after a brief delay, causing him to gasp and widen his eyes. At the edge of his vision, he could see Saika. Saika observed their kiss with a curious “Oh my……” expression. From her perspective, it must feel like watching herself and Mushiki kiss from a third person view. It was a strange sight for sure. However, Mushiki wasn’t losing when it came to strange experiences. A kiss while being watched by the person he admired. Such a sinful experience. Yet, the person kissing him was also the very same person. Confusion, panic, and pleasure mixed in his head as he couldn’t make sense of anything. “……Hmm.” But soon, it came to an end, Kuroe broke their lips apart with a small moan. “W-What were you……” As Mushiki slurred his speech, Kuroe replied back nonchalantly. “Of course, I’m supplying magical power. It seems certain that your bodies have separated since existence conversion hasn’t occurred. Well, if I were to add one more thing──” While saying that, Kuroe slightly narrowed her eyes. “Assuming the conditions for the promise are met, I wonder which one of us you are planning to purpose to?” The next words that followed came not from Karasuma Kuroe, but rather from Kuozaki Saika. “……, ────” Mushiki couldn’t help but hold his breath over what had just been asked.
Indeed, that as true. While seeing the separate Saika had weakened his thinking, there were two Saika existing in parallel with this situation. “──What a strange situation.” Saika continued to speak while folding her arms her with a confused look. “It’s possible that when Mushiki and I were separated, the consciousness I had in the artificial body had split in two──something along those lines. Although I don’t have much self-awareness of that happening.” “Ah. Or it’s possible a new ego has emerged in the artificial body of Kuroe after separation.” “I agree. Of course, I believe to be Saika, but say if under the assumption of being born with the memories of Saika for only the last five minutes, it would be extremely difficult to prove not being a counterfeit.” “The conditions are same here. The only evidence I have to claim of being the real one is my own memories.” At this point, both Saika and Kuroe simultaneously turned their attention to Mushiki.” “Mushiki, we’d like to hear your opinion as well.” “──What do you think of this situation?” “Wait, I──” Mushiki looked back at Saika and Kuroe when asked. There were two Kuozaki Saika. One was wonderful enough, but the question coming from both made Mushiki strongly aware of this miracle once again. “I-I will……love both Saika equally……!” “…………” Saika and Kuroe were momentarily silent by Mushiki’s declaration breaking out into a small laugh simultaneously. “Good grief, you never change, do you?” “It’s reassuring that can be said so normally.” The two of them wearily shrugged their shoulders and exchanged glances again.
“Well, there are tow few clues at this moment.” “Let’s wait for Elluc’s examination results before discussing this again.” “──For now, let’s move on to the disappearance of the American city.” “Yes.” The moment that was said by both of them, the relaxing atmosphere tensed up once more. The abnormal situation reported by Elluc──the disappearance of a city. The outside media was in turmoil over this mysterious phenomenon. Various speculations were flying around on TV and social media. Some said it was due to cracks appearing on the ground from continental shift. Others believed it to be the result of a runaway experimental weapon of a major power. And some even considered it to be an alien invasion── However, it wasn’t unreasonable for people to think that way. It was extremely rare for people from outside to witness such an abnormal situation. Well, to be precise, it might be more appropriate to say that no one could remember the abnormal events that had occurred several times beforehand. “So then──is it a Destruction Factor after all?” As Mushiki asked with a solemn expression, both Saika and Kuroe nodded in unison. There’s no doubt about it. Destruction Factor is a generic term for entities capable of destroying the world. It’s not a word just limited to monsters.” “That’s right. No matter what kind of phenomenon, there’s no reason not to classify it as a Destruction Factor if it has such a significant impact. In fact, the system of the world has indicated a reversible annihilation period.” “Reversible annihilation period──” Mushiki repeated those words as if considering it over. Kuroe faintly nodded and continued as if to continue the explanation. “Whenever a significant abnormality occurs, the world preserves the state from just beforehand. If the cause of the abnormality is removed within a certain time limit, the damage that occurred during that period will be undone. ──That is the authority of my <World>. As long as that has been activated, there is no doubt that something worthy of being a Destruction Factor has appeared. But──” “──We still don’t know what it is.”
When Mushiki said that, the two lowered their eyes and agreed. Right. That was the mysterious part of this incident. Normally, when a disaster of this scale occurred, the Destruction Factor causing it should be quickly identified. However, that wasn’t the case this time. Whatever erased the city, it was something that left no trace or shadow to be found. “The reversible annihilation period is 240 hours. In other words, it is within approximately 10 days. We must find and eliminate the Destruction Factor that caused this abnormality, or else that scene will be engraved onto the world as a consequence.” “That is the only thing we must absolutely avoid. Do you understand?” “……Yes.” “<Garden>’s investigation team is currently looking into the cause. As soon as they find out, they’ll report it. Depending on the situation, it may turn into a large-scale operation. Don’t neglect your preparations──” Then, just as Saika was about to finish speaking, a chime echoed throughout the <Garden> grounds. Apparently, class had concluded. Soon afterwards, a rumbling noise resembling footsteps was heard approaching from the hallway. The source of the footsteps came to a halt right in front of the headmaster’s office (perhaps there was too much momentum because the sound of taking a few steps back was also heard) and knocked on the door. “Ah.” Mushiki let out a small sound. Just from the tone of the knock, he had a feeling he knew the identity of this visitor. “Come in.” When Kuroe briefly answered, the doot slowly opened. “──Muuuushiiiiikiiii──────” And then, through a gap in the opened door, a chilling voice echoed. As expected, the person──Ruri, showed her face.
“Yoooou left me behind so eaaaaasily────” “R-Ruri……it’s not like that, this is……” “Mushiki under the scrutiny of a gaze filled with resentment and anger, trembled in replying like a man caught in an act of infidelity. As Mushiki was fumbling his words, Saika sighed and let out a wry smile. “I’ve been waiting for you, Ruri. Don’t just stand there. Come and sit down here.” After saying that, she pointed to the seat next to her. “……Huh!?” Ruri widened her eyes as her voice cracked. In an instant, the aura of indignation surrounding her body had vanished. “B-But……that’s too presumptuous……” “Oh? If you don’t want to, I won’t force you……” “N-No! It’s not like that! It’s an honor……” Ruri’s cheeks reddened as she began to tremble slightly. Saika really seemed to have a way with people. Ruri felt like a completely different person when compared to just a moment ago. “Now then, shall we have some tea? Kuroe, could you please prepare it?” “Yes.” Kuroe gracefully bowed as she began preparing the tea. As expected, her tone and mannerisms quickly reverted back to those of the chamberlain, Karasuma Kuroe. Next, Saika shifted her gaze towards Mushiki. “──Mushiki, since we have this chance, could you be a dear and bring some tea snacks from the break room?” And while saying this, she winked at him. “……! Y-Yes!”
Mushiki, who had guessed Saika’s intentions from her gaze, straightened his posture. The tea snacks were also available in the headmaster’s office, so Saika must have requested them to give Ruri time to cool down by sharing a calm conversation. Mushiki silently thanked Saika in his head and left the office. “──Now, Ruri. Come here.” “A-Ah……yes!” After Mushiki left the headmaster’s office, Saika beckoned Ruri, who had walked over with clockwork movements like a mechanical doll. “E-Excuse me.” Then, while letting out a strained voice, Ruri sat down at the indicated spot. However, she remained sense even after sitting on the sofa. Her back was straight, and her body was faintly trembling. Even her bottom was slightly lifted up a little from the seat. Looking at this situation, Saika gave a wry smile. “Don’t be so stiff. You’re making me tense too.” “I-I’m sorry……!” Despite apologizing, Ruri still didn’t relax. Every time Saika moved, a floral scent wafted in the air, further overloading Ruri’s senses. Saika wryly smiled once again and continued quietly. “──I apologize. I was the one who asked Mushiki to leave class. There was something I wanted to check with him. Please don’t blame him too much.” “Ah……I see……” Ruri relaxed with a thin sigh as she began to speak. “……I understand. I’m a magician too. I know that Witch-sama has complicated circumstances, and I don’t think Mushiki has any ill intentions. It’s just that, should I put it──” Ruri’s fingers trembled as she struggled to put her lingering feelings into words. Saika, displaying a goddess-like smile, gently stroked Ruri’s head. “……! W-Witch-sama……”
“Ruri must really love Mushiki.” “────” Ruri, being stared by those all-seeing eyes, involuntarily gasped. “……Yes.” After saying that much, the rest of her words flowed out smoothly without any lies. “That’s right. That’s how it is. ……I thought I had moved past from this since the <Ark> incident. But when I’m in front of my Nii-sama, I can’t seem to express myself properly.” Ruri continued on with a small sigh. “──I wish I could be more honest.” The moment Ruri said that. A click sound echoed. Surprised, she looked forward and saw Kuroe. It seemed she had been arranging the teacups on the table. Her hand probably had slipped then. However, what caught Ruri’s attention was Kuroe’s expression. It seemed she had also heard an unusual sound and was cautiously scanning her surroundings. “Kuroe? Is something wrong……?” “…………No, it might have just been my imagination. My apologizes.” With that said and done, Kuroe bowed and resumed preparing the tea. Ruri blinked for a while, but soon she was drawn back to the feeling of the gentle touch of the hand stroking her hair. “──Don’t worry. Mushiki must be aware of your feelings too. It would be nice if you could gradually express yourself in your own way.” “Yes……” Overwhelmed by the kind words from the person she admired, Ruri shivered with emotion. “I won’t wash my head starting from today……”
“You should still wash it properly……” As Ruri spoke, Saika responded with a smile still on her face. ◇ Mushiki woke up next morning in the boy’s dormitory room. After checking himself in front of the mirror, he confirmed there was no abnormalities and recorded it on his smartphone. The cause of separation between Mushiki and Saika’s bodies was still unknown. Kuroe had advised them to check their physical appearance and condition every morning, since there was a possibility of something abnormal happening again. After he finished recording, Mushiki suddenly remembered what happened yesterday. ──In the end, by the time Mushiki returned to the headmaster’ office with tea snacks, Ruri’s mood had completely recovered. Mushiki was deeply moved by Saika’s incredible skill. Afterwards, they discussed the mysterious Destruction Factor again with Ruri and adjourned the meeting. Despite the grave situation, there was nothing they could do without knowing the cause. Waiting for the investigation’s report and continuing to train throughout their daily lives were also said to be signs of a magician’s strength. Mushiki greeted his morning the same as ever for the boy’s dormitory. He prepared himself like usual, exchanged greetings with other dormitory students, and left the dormitory to head to the central school building. “Hmm……” As soon as he stepped outside, the bright sunlight shone on Mushiki. Squinting his eyes, he walked down the familiar path. ──In retrospect, this was a strange feeling. When he first arrived at <Garden>, he was already in a fused state with Saika. This was his first experience going to school as purely Kuga Mushiki. And at the same time, this also implied something else. “──Oh. Good morning, Mushiki.”
“…………!” Mushiki gasped for air as he heard that voice called out from the main street. Looking for the source of that voice, he could see Saika there, as expected. “Saika-san──” Since there bodies were separated, this was an inevitable sight. However, the impact of the scenario where he was going to school with Saika in her student uniform, greatly exceeded Mushiki’s expectations. He had almost fell to his knees on the spot from the moment he saw her. “That’s enough.” However, just before that could happen, Kuroe stopped him. Naturally, Saika wasn’t alone. “Were you just about to propose to Saika-sama again?” “N-No way. I was stopped by Kuroe, so……” “Really?” “Yes. I was just trying to find out her ring size.” “You’re steadily making preparations, aren’t you?” As Kuroe spoke with her eyes half-closed, Ruri and her roommate, Nagekawa Hizumi, walked up from behind. “Ah, good morning, Witch-sama. And Kuga-kun and Karasuma-san too.” “…………” Hizumi greeted him with a cheerful smile. Mushiki’s side also responded by waving their hands as a greeting. However, for some reason, Ruri only stared at Mushiki without saying a word. And with slow steps, she approached him. “Ruri……?”
As he tilted his head over Ruri’s strange behavior, Ruri stared at Mushiki’s face. Her eyes narrowed as if she was a carnivorous animal checking the scent of its prey. And then── “You look adorable today too, Nii-sama. Are you tempting me? I’ll eat you up, grrr.” “……Huh?” Mushiki let out a bewildered voice over what Ruri had just said with a straight face. It wasn’t just Mushiki. Hizumi, Saika, and even Kuroe were surprised looking at Ruri. However, Ruri frowned, as if seemingly not understanding the meanings behind their stunned expressions. “……What’s wrong? Is there something on my face?” “No, there’s nothing there, but……Ruri-chan, what did you just say?” As Hizumi with sweat dripping down her cheeks, Ruri tilted her head in confusion. “What do you mean……? I just greeting my beloved Nii-sama. ──Ah, do you mean there’s not enough physical contact? Certainly, that might be true. As expected of Hizumi, you always keep me calm……” While saying that, Ruri clung onto Mushiki. And just like that, she began rubbing her cheek against him, nuzzling her head, burying her face in his clothes, and taking deep breaths. Far from calm, this was very passionate. “R-Ruri……!? Hey……what are you……!” “Uwaaaaaaaaaaah! Nii-sama, Nii-sama, Nii-sama, Nii-sama, Nii-sama, Nii-sama, Nii-sama, Niisama, Nii-sama────!” “Ruri-chan!? C-Calm down──” Ruri excitedly crushed apart Mushiki. It felt like coarse sandpaper grinding against a piece of wood.
And then──that’s when it happened. “──Calling for the following personnel. To the headmaster and all knights, please come to central command immediately. I repeat──” “…………!” As if recreating the scene from the previous meeting, the announcements for the summons echoed throughout <Garden>. “……Huh?” When Mushiki, accompanied by Saika, arrived at the central command room, he was met by Anviet’s puzzled stare. Well, it can’t be helped. After all, Mushiki was currently wearing Ruri like a cape. It was an odd description, but there was no other way to phrase this situation. Ruri had both of her arms wrapped around Mushiki’s shoulders, sniffing the scent of his neck while occasionally letting out a euphoric sigh. Incidentally, her legs were limply hanging and scrapping her feet on the ground. If they were on sandy ground, a magnificent train tracks-like trail would have been drawn behind Mushiki. “What are you doing, Fuyajo……? Have you finally lost it?” “How rude. Is your mouth only good for slandering others?” As Anviet spoke with a bead of sweat dripping down, Ruri replied back in a sharp tone. However, her posture remained unchanged, making the contrast quite striking. Incidentally, only Saika, Kuroe, Mushiki, and Ruri had come to the command center following the broadcast. Hizumi had said that she couldn’t possibly interrupt the meeting and instead went to class like usual. Well, in that regard, Mushiki was in the same position. But since the reason for his separation from Saika wasn’t clear, he was being accompanied by Kuroe and following her instructions out of fear of refusion. ……Or rather, even before all of this, Ruri had refused to let go of Mushiki no matter how hard he pulled, so being the one necessary to bring Ruri, who otherwise refused to move, was also a strong reason. “……In the first place, don’t bring an outsider to an emergency summons.”
Anviet said that while looking at Mushiki. Then, Elluc, who was standing next to him, shrugged with one eye closed. “Aren’t you in the same boat?” “Grr……” Anviet let out a low growl. But that was understandable. After all, Surya was clinging tightly to Anviet’s back just like Ruri was clinging onto Mushiki. “It can’t be helped! I told her to wait, but she won’t let go!” “Because Papa wants to be with Su……” “I never said that!” “Jeez, I didn’t expect to see two matching samba frogs together.” Elluc sighed in an exasperated manner. “……Samba frogs……Huehehe……what’s that? Sounds fun……” She said that while laughing with her shoulders shaking. Her voice was so soft that it would have been easy to miss if one was paying attention. However, her appearance was anything but inconspicuous. She was tall, with her silver hair long enough to almost touch the ground. Her entire body was wearing a tight black dress as if she disliked exposing her skin. But even then, that did nothing to hide the overwhelming presence of her large bust. That wasn’t all. Even though her elegant face was hidden behind dense bangs and glasses, she was the splitting image of Silber. Knight Hildegard Silber. She was the creator of the <Garden> management AI Silber, who used her as the model for her interface visual. She must have responded to the summons as well. “──It’s known as the midwife frog. It’s a frog that carries and raises its eggs on its back. It’s not the sort of frog that dances to musical rhythm.” “Huh, ah……, ……u-uhm……”
Hildegard became flustered over Elluc’s explanation. Her pale cheeks flushed red as she hunched her back even more. Well, rather than her misunderstanding being exposed, she seemed more embarrassed about her muttered words being overheard. “Well anyway, let’s start the discussion. Hilde, come closer.” “Eh……n-no, I’m fine here……” “Never mind that, just come.” “Hiun……” Hildegard reluctantly approached forward at Elluc’s instance. However, perhaps feeling uncomfortable from everyone’s gazes, she hid behind Saika as if clinging onto her. And thus, the third samba frog was born.” “Hi, good morning, Hilde.” “Good morning, Saika-chan……you smell nice today too……” Hildegard replied with an awkward smile in response to Saika’s greeting. Although she probably didn’t mean it that way, her words and expression were almost like a degenerate. Hildegard might be shy around people, but she seemed to be quite relaxed around people recognized as friendly. While not making eye contact, she greeted Mushiki and the others as well. “Ruri-chan and Mushiki-kun too…… Ah, Kuroe-chan, you’re not wearing your maid uniform today?” Looking at Kuroe’s outfit, Hildegard spoke in a slightly disappointed tone. Kuroe was currently wearing <Garden> girl’s school uniform. While there were minor differences, such as the Realize Device attached to the tips of the shoulder strap and her socks, her outfit was very similar to what Saika and Ruri were wearing. “I am also a student at <Garden>. Naturally, I wear the school uniform when attending classes.” “I-Is that so……” As Kuroe spoke, Hildegard seemed to droop her shoulders, looking somewhat disheartened. “……? Hilde-san, do you like maid outfits?”
When Mushiki asked nonchalantly, Hildegard averted her eyes and replied. “……Well, it’s not like I particularly like them or anything…… But while they’re supposed to be work clothes, they’re frilly and cute. I can’t deny they’re the perfect blend of functionality and style……just looking at them makes my heart skip a beat……I like the cosplay aspect too, but the monochrome classic style is truly the best…… I wish the girl uniforms for <Garden> were maid outfits……” “You really like them, don’t you?” Mushiki couldn’t help but wryly smile at her sudden, passionate speech. Then, he noticed Kuroe squinting her eyes and furrowing her brows. “Kuroe? You don’t have to make a face like that……” “No, that’s not it……” “Huh?” As Mushiki’s eyes blinked, Kuroe eventually shook her head “……No, it’s nothing.” “I-Is that so……” As Mushiki tilted his head in confusion, Elluc cleared her throat. “Can we start the discussion now?” “Ah.” “Excuse me, please go ahead.” Elluc let out a sigh and then addressed Saika. “Sorry for calling you here again, Saika.” “I don’t mind. More importantly, what happened between yesterday and today? You’ve even gathered the Knights this time.” “──Could it be that you’ve discovered the cause of yesterday’s disappearance phenomenon?” Kuroe was the one who continued where Saika had left off.
In response everyone held their breath. Ruri also reacted by burying her face in Mushiki’s nape and taking deep breath. His neck slowly grew warmer. “No, unfortunately that’s not the case. ──Big sis.” “Yes!” As if responding to Elluc’s request, a cheerful echoed as AI Silber appeared on the bale. Incidentally, Hildegard, visibly displeased with her appearance of the AI that looked identical to her. Apparently, even though Hildegard undoubtedly created Silber, the interface model was made by the AI without her permission. “For the sake of all the lovely brothers & sisters, Silber has arrived today as well. Oops, and today we also have Anvi-kun and the rumored Su-chan. ──Ah, Hildegard-san is here too……moving on ……” Suddenly adopting a business-like tone, Silber bowed her head. Hildegard furrowed her brow while scratching her hair. “I knew it! She’s only cold towards me……!” “Just kidding. Even if you are my creator, you are still my little sister. Hilde-chan, as an only child, wanted an older sister so much that she studied AI technology, right?” “Somehow my past is being fabricated……” As Hildegard spoke with sweat on her forehead, Silber seemed to ignore her. She gracefully twisted in midair and spread her arms towards everyone. “Now, let’s put this stylish sister talk aside and get to the main topic at hand. Take a look at this.” As Silber spoke, a 3D image unfolded in the air. Upon seeing this, everyone furrowed their brows. “This is──” A landscape resembling a foreign city was being displayed. But like the footage from yesterday, a portion of it had cleanly vanished. “Compared to yesterday’s location……it doesn’t seem to be the same place.” “Indeed. Earlier today, the disappearance phenomenon was observed in southern Australia. It’s on a much smaller scale compared to yesterday, but this undoubtedly the same phenomenon.