Prologue
■ Tsuan
(Her halberd was twirling around. I noticed as I turn to look over her shoulder. She is staring blankly and slanting her head. After being asked for an interview, she slanted her head even more.)
Interview? What do you mean? Just talking is enough? To you? Why? Being asked a question, it’s good to answer? Where did you come up with that? …Well, fine.
Then please tell me your name.
Hmm. Tsuan. It means blue. It’s cool. I’ve taken a liking to it myself.
Can you talk about your past?
I──woke up in this Neighboring World. There are no memories of the other world besides my name. When I noticed a halberd in my hands, I realized it was my mission to fight. But at first, I was scared, and remember running away in fear.
You did well in surviving.
Master…Kagarike Haraka picked up and taught me. I was talented in fighting, I loved fighting, and I was able to live my life without any issues.
When hearing it like that, I have to wonder. Did you have any hesitation in fighting and defeating your opponents?
…Not so much. I would overlook them if they were begging for their lives, but otherwise I would erase my opponents. I gambled my life like a chip and my opponents would do the same. There is a weight in taking a life, but that weight was also my livelihood. …Thinking like that, I…
What’s wrong?
No, it’s nothing. In any case, I did so without hesitation. A paradise where fights lasted forever just like Valhalla in Norse mythology. I felt like I was there. I thought I was invincible. …. Until I encountered Tokisaki Kurumi.
…How was Kurumi-san?
Tokisaki Kurumi is a Spirit, and I am a Quasi-Spirit. But there isn’t much of a difference in terms of body specs. The speed of her bullets isn’t too difficult to grasp. If she was a phenomenon that could only scatter disaster like the legends say about Spirits, then I think I would have been convinced of defeat and run away. But she wasn’t like that. It was much more humiliating. I lost in strategy, I lost in tactics, I lost in wisdom, I lost in fighting. …I lost the battle with a paper-thin difference. Well, strictly speaking, Higoromo Hibiki was using Tokisaki Kurumi’s powers, so it can be said to not count.
Hahaha, okay…okay.
However, even if I fought against the real Tokisaki Kurumi at that time…I think the results would have probably been the same. Tokisaki Kurumi is…by no means the strongest. At the very least, I can win in a comparison of strength, and I’m proud to say that I would be superior in close quarters combat. But if we fight, I would lose.
Why’s that?
Huge amounts of combat experience, tactics that fully make use of the special characteristic of her weapons, or various other things, but…in the end, I think I can’t win against her survival
instinct and sense of purpose. I’ve never experienced it before, but I think it’s called memory of him or prince? I can’t recommend it personally. Anyway, that’s why I feel like I would lose.
That means…it’s like winning through the power of love?
…Love…love is…I don’t know, but maybe that’s the way to describe it. If I love someone too, I wonder if that power can be obtained. Or since I’m thinking it with that intent, I wonder if that wouldn’t be considered loving somebody.
I don’t know. The shape of love is different for each Quasi-Spirit. By the way, can I change the question now? I would like to ask you about your likes and dislikes.
What I like is fighting, and what I dislike is losing. Nothing else in particular. I like idol activities…well, only just a little. I also quite like undergoing maintenance for <Lailaps>.
Hmm, there’s an overflowing impression of a lack of interests. Ah, do you have any message for yourself in 10 years?
Me in 10 years… To me. Am I still fighting? If I’m not fighting, then keep fighting by any means possible. That is my hope.
There’s one last question. Tsuan-san, you’re──what do you want to do after this?
I want to start my journey. That is what I’m dreaming of. Isn’t Higoromo Hibiki proceeding to do the same?
Well, for the time being…
It's fine. You won't die even if killed. I guarantee.
That's a bad guarantee!
■ Sagakure Yui
(Sagakure Yui can perform mutual coordination with beings that look identical to herself. She is a mass-produced doll…but actually, her abilities and level of intelligence are the equivalent of a Quasi-Spirit. How unexpectedly amazing.)
Uhh…an interview? Well, it’s not a word I have much of a connection to… I wonder what I should say even if you call it an interview. Just answering the questions is enough? Yes, I understand. In that case, anything is fine besides highly-classified information about the Neighboring World. Ah, you say the secrecy of the Neighboring World is fine to leave aside? Then all right, please ask away.
First, what is your name?
My name is Sagakure Yui. The little sister of Sagakure Yuri, the former Dominion of the Seventh Region Netzach…being a man-made imitation, I suppose it’s fine to define myself as an artificial Quasi-Spirit? For convenience, I was given the name of Sagakure Yuri-sama’s little sister. This body was manufactured by my older sister, but strangely──or perhaps understandingly, I was also mass-produced. As an artificial body, I don’t know whether my older sister’s favoritism towards her little sister was superficial or just twisted love. However, I wasn’t born as a disposable entity. I was able to synchronize with another Sagakure Yui to pass along information.
…Ah, now that you mention it, Tokisaki Kurumi can also create clones. I’ve heard that she too can do something similar. Synchronization…is that really necessary? I mean how many uses do those bullets in her possession even have in the first place? So convenient…
My role in the past was to gather information about this Neighboring World. Either that or erase Quasi-Spirits whom have become unnecessary, hinderances, and obstacles. Well, leaving the first part aside, the second half…I wasn’t really successful.
Huh? How so?
My senses, thoughts, feelings, and ethics are all based on the original Sagakure Yui. Therefore, uhm, combat ability is──difficult to describe as abundant. Even if I include the abilities granted by my Unsigned Angel and Astral Dress, I would say that I specialize in espionage after all.
Just like a kunoichi.
Why is it like a kunoichi? I’m not quite sure about it myself. But I’d be pleased to say it’s my own ideal way of handling matters.
Is it okay to ask about your older sister?
My older sister, she probably wouldn’t affirm to being broken if asked. Um…the nameless boy that Tokisaki Kurumi is chasing after. She also fell in love with the person in that distant world. …I guess she wanted to go to that other world. It should be considered a sin to betray everyone for that──but I would still like to understand her motives.
I see. May I ask you about your likes and dislikes?
For my likes, it would be…reading and meditation. As for dislikes, nothing particularly…ah, there is one. Going about in every direction to help realize my older sister’s unreasonable goals. However, nowadays I do feel nostalgic for moving about.
Reading is a standard answer, but what about the genre? Could it be a romance novel after all?
I’m not sure what that is, but that’s not it. Can you promise me that you won’t tell anyone else? You will? Really? Then, let me confess. It’s about idols. It’s a novel about the rise of a hot-
blooded idol’s youth. The novel Kirarin Revolution, which is based on the successful life of Kirari Rinemu, (author: Hazumin IOB) was the best. As expected, the author in question must be Kirari Rinemu-san.
I don’t think she’s the person in question. …Or rather, considering the author’s name…
Idols are amazing, aren’t they? Shinning so brightly…good at singing…good at dancing… S-rank idols are a work of art, aren’t they? The one night only performance between Banouin Mizuha-san and Kirari Rinemu-san was the best…
O-Oh. An unexpected hobby was finally discovered. Leaving that aside, what do think about the future? This may feel like a strange way to ask this, but what do you what do from now on? Please answer as if leaving a message for yourself in 10 years from now.
What do I want to do? I have already decided. I will stay in this Neighboring World and help keep it running. As long as my older sister is gone, we will continue to deteriorate over time and eventually disappear.
But I think that’s fine. A message for myself in 10 years…hmm, I’m not sure I’ll still be alive in 10 years. Because of that, I would need to put my answer on hold. If I’m still alive, then I would consider it very lucky.
Yui-san doesn’t want to go to reality?
Not particularly. I have no memories of the other world, nor anything resembling lingering attachments to it. In the first place, it’s doubtful whether my existence can even live in reality. The other surviving Sagakure Yui models agree with my opinion. We shouldn’t go to reality.
…Ah, that’s right. There’s still that occasion. I just said that I shouldn’t go, but that also means saying that I can never go back home.
After all, I──I think I’m a resident of this side.
(As Sagakure Yui-san said that, she displayed to me a smile that looked heartbreaking and a little painful. It was a smile that gave the sense of resignation and loneliness.)
It was a case of having a little bad luck. Neighboring World…surely it will become a bit lonelier.
■ Kirari Rinemu
(Kirari Rinemu-san never gets lost. As soon as I discover this, I approach with a big smile on my face. Behind is Banouin Mizuha-san, who is motionlessly staring at Kirari-san and me. A
transparent gaze that contained a fever that couldn’t be concealed in a cage. Hmm, can I say that this is liking someone too much?)
Is it okay to have just a little of your time?
Sure, what is it? An interview? No problem! What’s the theme? Is it about my new song? I was told it was only in poor taste, but Hibikin should understand!
No, no, please stop selling this as compliance for a head-on scuffle. …For now, even though this already a mess, please just give me your name for the time being.
Me? Kirari Rinemu, age is around 16 to 17 years old? Three sizes are a secret. Then again, with my splendid self-confidence it should be super acceptable. Hobbies are being an idol, special skill is being an idol, favorite thing is idols, which includes singing as well? Oh yeah, thank you very much for that time!
H-Hey. No, don’t let the rage flow over this self-introduction… Well then, next I would like to ask.
Fighting is regarded as necessary in this Neighboring World, but I think that not fighting is not necessarily a weakness. Fortunately, the number of Quasi-Spirits who agree with this have increased…the Ninth Region Yesod has come to an understanding as region where fighting is not needed.
Uhm, excuse me. I have a small question to ask first.
But, now. It feels a little strange these days. It’s not that I’ve ended up in a slump, and everyone is going around working really, really hard. Everything is going well. But that’s just it. It means that there are no idols above me and Mizuha. Don’t you think that staying as a regular on the hit charts for over a year means stagnating or regressing? Of course, I still have new songs.
And they keep getting first place every time they’re put out. But something like this…I’m sick of it!
Please listen to me! You’ve already reached the part of the story I wanted to talk about! Yes. This is what I think. If you can go, you should go!
Even if I’m gone, the Ninth Region Yesod will still somehow be managed. ──I, see. Is that your choice? So that’s it.
That’s what Hibikin wanted to hear, right? Now, ask to the rest to Mizuha! Even for me, while I’m not that stupid, I am quite foolish. I want to cherish Mizuha’s feelings, and I want to respect Mizuha’s thoughts no matter what. Come on, come on! (Forcefully pushing her)
F-Final Question! Say something to leave behind for yourself in 10 years!
Nothing! I haven’t given a thought to myself in 10 years!
A-Alright! Then next up is Mizuha-san!
■ Banouin Mizuha
(Naturally, the baton was passed to Mizuha-san. Even if she didn’t listen to the prior interview, she could read the mood to tell that what was being asked was important. No, was she really eavesdropping? Well, leaving that matter aside for now, she took a few deep breaths and looked on to her staff. They looked reluctant, giving the impression of taking up a little more distance than usual from Mizuha-san.)
Uh, is this, okay?
Yes, of course. You have something to ask, right? As Banouin Mizuha, I will do my best to answer.
A beautiful girl with a face that can make the crowd go wild, but in contrary to that this person is also quite adorable… Anyway, be that as it may, I would appreciate it if you could introduce yourself.
R-Right. Banouin Mizuha. Age is unknown. I have already publicly disclosed my height, but weight is a secret. Sorry.
Ah, as expected is that because of being an idol?
No, there are rare fans who try and exactly match their weight with mine… They do this through unreasonable diets or conversely through forcibly gaining weight. That is poisonous to the body. So that’s why except for my height, I keep it confidential.
It was a much heavier reason than I expected… Uhh, well then please continue.
Yes. Of course, I like idols. I like singing, dancing, being photographed, just about all of it. What I dislike…nothing really comes to mind. Ah, no. Being hated, or rather I should say I’m scared of that. Um, to be disliked.
W-Well, I don’t think you would normally be disliked. Ah, could it be? Is it being disliked by a specific person?
T-That may be true. Ah, but it’s not good to single-out a person. It’ll be definitely not good, right?
…Yeah, I have no intention of pursuing this, but… it’s kind of obvious. I mean, I don’t think the person you don’t want to identify would hate Mizuha-san.
Really!? It would be great if that was the case, but…Rinemu-san is always in trouble because I can’t get a grip. Uu, I wonder if my feelings have been conveyed… I hope that they’ve been conveyed…
(Did this clumsy idol just give away the name!?)
Maybe I wanted to be asked about this…you think? Yes. I have decided. If Rinemu-san decides to go, I will also go. If she decides to stay, I will also stay. Being passive and easy to be swept away, I wonder if okay to decided my life in such a manner? A lot…I’ve thought about it a lot. But I want to be together with the person I like after all. …Huh? Did I say something very awkward just now?
(You realize it this late in the stage) Ah, but isn’t that fine…
It seems like I gave quite the crude reply… Well, that’s all for me. Whether or not my fans will follow me…I’ll leave that to them. …Everyone should think calmly, the world over there is probably…no, uhm…never mind. I’m not that bright. Someone else can explain it better.
One last thing. Please give a message to yourself in 10 years.
To myself in 10 years. Maybe I be together with that person. Don’t drift apart even if you have a quarrel.
■ Carte À Jouer
(Carte À Jouer, the former Dominion of the Third Region Binah, challenged and lost to the White Queen, and encountered Tokisaki Kurumi when running away. She seemed to have been her fan for a long time, and would make passionate love calls. However, I feel that Kurumi-san fairly gives that a cold reception. That aside, the important part is the four playing cards. Ace of Spades, Twelve of Hearts, Nine of Diamonds, and Four of Clovers, each playing card can move around with something resembling self-consciousness.)
Hello everyone, how are you?
Ah, Higoromo Hibiki has come! I’m always so jealous that you always move together with Tokisaki Kurumi-sama! But I can’t say that I want to take your place! Because I don’t know what to say when I’m nervous! So let me just say, “I’m so jealous…I’m so envious…. I hate…” Opps, that last part of the dialogue just got changed to a frightening font.
Is this how you break the ice, you dimwitted prince? Ah…do you even have a self introduction? You must not have one.
Aren’t you the one treating me rudely!? Ah, ahem. My name is Carte À Jouer. Former Dominion of the Third Region Binah…no, I mean current Dominion. Why do my own underlings look like they’re casting doubt? Anyway, you can think of me as a genius Quasi Spirit overflowing with talent and beautiful looks! And also, I am Tokisaki Kurumi’s number one fan! All done.
Number one fan gives off a dangerous scent like an impression of Annie Wilkes.
Don’t compare people to that confinement yandere murderer. Generally, I’m── “Ah, I understand. I can’t deny master may have a little bit of that desire.” (Ace of Spades) “I can’t deny that our master tends to be a psychopath.” (Four of Clovers) “Right? That means we are always in a big pinch, aren’t we?” (Nine of Diamonds) “Call a police officer!” (Twelve of Hearts)
It got noisy all at once!! This is getting complicated, so hurry up and do something about it!
Too──noisy! Shut up!! …Fuah. Sorry, let’s continue talking. As you can see, my ability is anthropomorphized trump card…people…well, maybe the ability for trump cards to move about freely is easier to understand? Still, convenient is convenient. Under any circumstances, thanks to the blessing of these trump cards, a minimal level of war strength can be preserved. Above all, I was able to act as a king (leader).
Did you want to be a king?
No, not in the slightest. This may come off as a surprising fact, but I am rather shy. Shyness…communication being too troublesome…I just want to look up to someone else to support.
It is a really surprising fact…that you used to be a Dominion…
I’m not such a useless Quasi-Spirit to turn a blind eye when they are being persecuted. Ahahahaha. But well, I think this a good opportunity.
Ah, that means──
Yeah. I’m…I’m thinking of going over there. Uhh, at the end of the day, I have the disposition of a wanderer. Somehow becoming a Dominion…was more or less because I was asked for help. But, from now on it should be more peaceful than it used to be. Considering the lineup of the remaining Dominions, the future is secure. So then, I want to keep going where the wind is blowing. However, I do have one concern. Can you hear me out?
Yes. What is it?
──Is it okay for these guys to go over there?
(While saying so, Carte À Jouer sighed and pointed to the Trump solders surrounding her. The trump cards made a fuss while chattering away.)
Ah…what do you think? I don’t know what will happen.
That’s right. If it won’t work for these kids, then it can’t be helped. Let’s revoke the previous statement and stay. Although, it’s a little lonely that I won’t be able to meet up with Kurumi sama anymore. “Don’t use us as an excuse!” (Ace of Spades) “If you care about us, please decide for your own sake!” (Twelve of Hearts) “It’s the end of the line if you don’t do what you want because of us!” (Four of Clovers) “If you decide it like that, you’ll regret it for the rest of your life!” (Nine of Diamonds)
(Carte À Jouer looked on at her trump cards with a surprised expression. Pressured by the serious looks of her normally playful trump cards, she cleared her through under the disguise of a cough.)
…Let’s withdrawal the previous statement. I want to go to the other side. No matter what I need to depend on or what I need to part ways with…I will go to the other world. Damn it, to think the day has come where you guys can persuade me. Do you noisy playing cards want your corners bent?
(Gyaah, the trump cards let out a noisy scream. Was having their corners bent really something that scary?)
Ahem. Finally, please give a message to yourself in 10 years.
Message…even if you say that. I have no choice but to pray that I will not be lost on the road 10 years later! In the first place, we can get old there! Well, I want to believe I’ll make do somehow!
Thank you very much!
By the way, Higoromo Hibiki. What are you going to do? Are you…also going to the other side?
Hmm, about that. I think it’s impossible for me to go to reality.
How come?
My body may not be from there in the first place. That is to say, I might disappear if I go over here.
(Hearing my words, Carte looked taken aback as her expression stiffened. Then, as she muttered an apology, I reassure her it was fine.)
But well, it may be okay. There are various secret measures.
Well then, I feel relieved. I’m sure you can live strongly anywhere. Just like a rat in the city! That’s not a compliment!
■ Ariadne Foxrot
(Ariadne Foxrot looked sleepy from the bottom of her heart. She was flatly sitting down, but sometimes she would steer around to look at the other Quasi-Spirits. Next to her were Yukishiro Maya and Kagarike Haraka. Both of them were taking a break and looking up at the sky. She was a fluffy girl with soft golden hair that was lightly tied up. Cute rather than sweet and pretty, her looks were the type to speak with a heart symbol attached. But right now, this person had drool attached to her mouth.)
Excuse me, can I have a small bit of your time?
Hm? Hmm? …Hm…hm…?
This person seems to have hopelessly fallen asleep. Haraka-san, please wake her up.
Munya…munya…higya!? Hey Haraka, that’s a little bit too much. I’m up, I’m up. Eh? An interview? Too troublesome…oh, but it’s Hibikin. …Well, then it can’t be helped. I’ll answer.
I don’t know if that was polite or rude. …Well, it should be fine. Let’s start by introducing yourself, please!
Ariadne Foxrot. ~The end.
Hey, is saying your name in that catastrophically cutesy sleepy voice any way to end it? There should be more to say. What about being a Dominion?
Hmm…Dominion of the Fourth Region Chesed. Unsigned Angel that I use is called <Taiintaiyounijuyonsetsuki>. It resembles threads of mercury that can be used to slice or capture anything. I can also classify emotions under seasons to measure and manipulate.
That’s the reason why you were absurdly strong in the casino card game contest. Well, with Kurumi-san being Kurumi-san, various other things still influenced the end result.
That’s for sure. Kurumin was very clever, wasn’t she? But well, it was a good game that I will never forget. I wanted to do it again.
May I ask you about your likes and dislikes? Ah, as for likes I have a general inkling on what it may be.
The thing I like is a collection of bedding goods?
Eh, what about sleeping?
Isn’t it a natural habit for humans to sleep? Then, don’t you think likes and dislikes would be irrelevant? I mean if sleeping was something you hated, would you not sleep? I don’t think that would be very good for your health…?
I was suddenly struck by a sound argument!?
Hmm, what I hate… I wonder if it’s something that prevents me from sleeping. No…it might be different after all. Since I don’t mind if Haraka or Maya disturb my sleep. Ah, did I just say something embarrassing right now? Hmm…assuming that…ah. What I dislike…there was only one person that I disliked.
Miyafuji Oka. I hated that child. Yeah. Because that girl…was a really good girl, right? Always moody thinking about the future of the Neighboring World, she did her best taking over from her predecessor in the leadership role for us in the region conference. Maybe it was noblesse oblige that made her exert herself through all the difficulties. …Even nobles wouldn’t go that far. I’m special. I’m amazing. So, it’s not painful at all. So, I’ll always do my best. She was completely different from someone like me. Every time I would fall asleep, she would preach to me about what it meant to be a Dominion… Even so, before I knew it, she was led around by the nose and brainwashed. To be used like that and then die. Immediately after she died, I wasn’t shocked, but…done like that, something would slowly come out.
…Is that so…that’s…yeah, you’re right. I would hate that as well.
But thanks to that, I was able to decide. I think this is the most important thing Hibikin wanted to ask. I’m going to stay in this Neighboring World. This world that child worked so hard for. I want to see it till the very end. Even if it may disappear after this. Still…still. I can’t stand that the proof of a person who has worked so hard will completely disappear.
…I understand. Thank you very much. Then, please give me a message for yourself in 10 years.
May I still be on good terms with everyone 10 years from now. That’s about it. Do you have anything else to ask?
I don’t have anything more to ask, but I do have something to say. Best regards for world peace.
Understood. Then, I’ll take a nap until something happens next. Good night. ■ Kagarike Haraka
(Kagarike Haraka. The oldest Quasi-Spirit, a shrine maiden battle enthusiast that is accompanied by several disciples. Both mature and childish, she is a Dominion that kept fighting and winning. When she saw me, she bluntly said, “oh” and pointed to herself.)
Thank you very much for your hard work.
Yes, yes, it’s exhausting. No, it really is. I don’t think I’m getting up there in years. There seems to be no physical aging in this world. But mental aging will be inevitable. Well, leaving that aside, you want an interview?
Oh, yes. Uhh, can I ask you introduce yourself first?
Kagarike Haraka. Age is unknown. I don’t know height, weight, or three sizes because I’ve never measured myself. I should be around 2 meters? Something like that. Unsigned Angel is <Slap Curse Maker>, an Unsigned Angel that can manufacture spirit talismans.
Oh, I feel like I’m hearing this for the first time. Instead of attacking with an Unsigned Angel, you make spirit talismans through your Unsigned Angel.
There is a handicap in placing something that may cushion the blow, but that’s part of the reason it’s almighty in versatility. I am confident that I can handle everything no matter the battle situation. I can stand my own ground or construct an advantageous team to secure the win. In the end, no disciple reached my level. Tsuan grew in a completely different direction.
Kurumi-san may come close. That person has an absurd performance when it comes to making the war situation advantageous.
Ah, I get what you mean. Calling it almighty is narrow-minded and gives the impression of being forcefully overturned through strategy and tactics. Honestly, that’s my favorite fighting style. I wanted to fight her at least once. But since we would certainly end up trying to kill each other, that would probably be bad.
Kurumi-san enjoys winning fights, but she dislikes struggling in a close game. So, unless there is a good reason, I think it’ll be difficult. To Haraka-san, she would say, “fighting the type where tactics are in conflict really is too troublesome. I’d rather not open the possibility of having to overturn a reversal of a reversal.” That’s why it’s probably impossible.
I see, so it’s impossible. Then, we don’t need to worry about killing each other!
I have various things I want to add to that, but leaving that aside, can you still only build yourself through battle?
At the moment, yeah. Maybe I can find another way of life if the situation changes a little more. I can’t say either way.
That means, you are…staying behind.
Yeah, that’s right. But not being able to find a way to live outside of fighting is a secondary reason. I’m staying because of an even more important purpose. Well, I’m sure there’s nothing wrong with the world beyond.
That’s──
Not to mention, I have friends staying. Then, I will also remain here. The disciples as well…it seems that about half are going, but some are choosing to stay. I don’t know if a new tomorrow will be waiting or if the same today as yesterday will be continuing. However, I want to believe that it will be fine.
Well, it is a little painful to have some friends stay while bidding farewell to others.
But I want to protect this world. The Quasi-Spirits who have died, as well as our predecessors Dominions who entrusted us with the future, would want that. Of course, that includes Miyafuji as well.
Miyafuji-san, surprisingly…forgive me for saying that. She was certainly loved.
We have socialized well for a long time. For that reason, having to endure the incident in the Seventh Region Netzach was quite the sobering affair. Maybe that’s why I thought I couldn’t forgive the White Queen. Until then, I mostly considered her a somewhat unknown and eerie existence that was causing a lot of damage.
Miyafuji Oka was a girl that was as remarkable as she looked. She retained memories of the other world, with the person herself claiming she had come from a distinguished family there.
If times hadn’t changed, she said that she would have been a princess. Holding onto memories of the other world, she was frantically trying to control the Neighboring World.
There are no adults in this world. We don’t get old. Only experience inscribed in the soul barely puts us into the concept of ‘age’. All children, with only some having to grow up.
In short, a Dominion is an adult Quasi-Spirit. …Well, there’s also Kirari who became a Dominion without becoming an adult.
That’s why Oka did her best. Ruling, governing, influencing, occasionally purging, she prayed for this Neighboring World to be a better world.
…That said, she also wasn’t the type to make friends because of her personality. Ah, she really seems like the type who would be on bad terms with Kurumi-san.
Ah, definitely the type that would never get along with Tokisaki Kurumi. Then again, Tokisaki Kurumi does seem better at smooth-talking. She would probably groan and run away. Hmm, I really wished you guys meet in different circumstances.
Is this why Haraka-san is choosing to stay behind?
Well, I must admit. There are other people choosing to stay, so it would be a pity if it turned into chaos. From the perspective of the other world, the Neighboring World surely must be a mistake, an area that should be deleted… But still, I don’t think its necessary to choose to perish.
Well, that’s true. This doesn’t mean the same as wishing to perish. There will be many Quasi-Spirits who have no place in the other world.
Isn’t that the case with you, Higoromo Hibiki?
(Kagarike Haraka narrowed her eyes as if to search for my true intentions. I’m not scared as I look straight back. I’m not glaring, but I hold onto the courage to keep eye contact. I knew long ago that I didn’t have a place to belong. But still, I choose.)
It’s fine, I’m ready. One chance, one chance♪
…Well, if you say that, I won’t stop you. You also fell in love with a troublesome person. The person I fell in love with is wicked~♪ That’s the one.
You’re also too troublesome, so not changing your mind on staying is probably fortunate…
I’ll have to completely disregard being told off like that. Now then, finally please leave a message for yourself in 10 years.
Ten years later huh… Hmm, I hope the three of us can still laugh together 10 years from now. I don’t know what’s going to happen, but it should be somehow fine if it’s the three of us.
■ Yukishiro Maya
(Yukishiro Maya is the Dominion of the Second Region Chokmah. She is a girl who is always carrying around a heavy book. Slender body, bluish short-cut hair, and red under-rim glasses, all of that looked good on her. When she saw my face, she cutely slanted her head. This adorable person gives the impression of not making any noise.)
What’s wrong? Did something happen?
This is an interview. One by one. As much as possible to all the Quasi-Spirits that I know.
Hmm…I don’t mind. But I don’t think my story will be particularly interesting?
It’s me rather than Maya-san who gets to decide that. Now, please start by introducing yourself.
Uhh…Yukishiro Maya. Height is 141.4 cm. Weight is 39.8 kg. Three sizes are unknown because I’ve never measured that. Occupation…occupation? I am the Dominion in charge of the Second Region Chokmah. Hobbies are reading, special skills are reading, and Unsigned Angel is books. Its name is <Perfect Bookblock>. Under the declaration break the seal, books numbered from 1 to 10 can be taken out to exercise each one’s abilities. It’s very useful.
Like with Haraka-san, it’s an all-purposeful summoning type.
Unlike her who specializes in combat, I focus on a wider range of elements like rule design, tracking, concealment, etc. Numbers 1 and 5 are for direct attacks while the other 8 are not. Everything else is for getting around a situation by means other than direct combat. Oh, shall I open all ten books for a better explanation?
No, maybe at another time. Somehow it would feel too troublesome…
When said like that, it makes me want to forcibly explain them to you. Alright, please prepared yourself, I will explain them all to you without any breaks. To start, the First Book <Novum Testamentum> attacks with pieces of book pages in the form of a shinning sword. It’s used for close quarters combat. The Second Book <Bookwalking> is used when opening multiple books at the same time…it’s a bit complicated, but if I don’t use this, I can only use one book at a time. Third Book <Cats Rule> closes the surrounding space with a curtain, making so that you won’t be noticed even with a lot of noise. The Fourth Book <Light Law Apostles> as you know is the rule setting book. The Fifth Book <Firehouse Mystery>, is an attack-type book that, as the name suggests, releases a flame that burns vigorously. Incidentally, the flames won’t spread to the book itself. The Sixth Book <Golden Cube>, a book with a regeneration effect useful for recovery purposes. Also possible for discernment between allies and enemies. With the Seventh Book <Hopping Starlight>, I’m scared of how absurdly high I can jump when using it. The Eight Book <Glory Gravity Glory> crushes the target with its own weight multiplied by 100 times gravity…I don’t use it much because it’s grotesque. The Ninth Book <Soul Stalker> is a book used for tracking a specific target, with a drawback being that its speed is slow. And finally, the Tenth Book <All Paper Aegis> is a so-called defensive book. As its name suggest, it’s fairly strong through processed paper. When used together with the Third Book, it can also be used to create a campground.
That was extraordinarily long and tedious, but I’ll take note of that for the time being!
Well with this kind of ability, I think it’ll be useful in the future. I intend to continue making use of it in this Neighboring World until my lifespan runs out.
Did staying behind come naturally to you?
There is no reason not to remain. Or rather, let me be honest. …Going to the world beyond…having to build various things from scratch…something like that is…painful…and troublesome…
It’s more of a pragmatic reason than I expected!?
Let’s say that I was a missing person named Yukishiro Maya. I also assume that I had a family. However, I have no memories of that family. Going over to the other side may help me remember, but I still won’t be able to judge if my family is good or bad.
Additionally, if I came back alive to a family that thought I was dead, I may be throw into an even more complicated situation. For instance…returning five minutes after disappearing from the other world would cause no problems. But if it was 10 or 20 years later…it would absolutely be bad for me to return looking exactly the same as when I left. Furthermore, if I came from a rich house, the issue of inheritance would be confusing.
Yeah, I get the gist of it! …Certainly, going over there means throwing away everything that has been accumulated here.
And there’s one more thing that can’t be overlooked. This Unsigned Angel and Astral Dress that are necessary to be Quasi-Spirits. I wonder if they can be used over there.
…A-About that…I wonder…
Assuming they can be used…a ridiculous number of troublesome humanoid battle weapons will be sent over to the other side. Assuming they can’t be used, a large number of girls will have to grow up with no residence or future. I haven’t so much made light of that world’s ill intent. Perhaps the majority will be placed in danger… So that’s why those two are reliable.
Those two?
Of course, I’m talking about Kirari Rinemu and Banouin Mizuha. The fact that they are heading over to the other world is the result of discussions between the Dominions. Whether they are capable or not, those girls do hold valued qualities.
They are both idols…oh, I see.
Right. They have talents that can be understood in the other world. We will also send backup staff members, so there is the possibility of success…but even without that, with Kirari Rinemu’s vitality, I think most things will work out. Banouin Mizuha can also takes a step back and look at every matter with a calm and modest point of view. And two more Dominions are also planning on going. They will be reliable as well.
Of course, the world beyond…I’m worried because the real world has much more malicious and fraudulent intent than the Neighboring World. In that sense, I would like to entrust handling that to Tokisaki Kurumi.
To Kurumi-san? Seriously?
…I should say it myself, but it’s impossible after all. Throughout heaven and earth, there seems to be no one more vainglorious than Tokisaki Kurumi. But well, I’d appreciate it if you could help me a little…I want to leave that to you.
Okay, well I’m sure Kurumi-san will do something about that!
Yes. A lot of things have happened, but I’m happy to be able to laugh now looking back. I’m glad Tokisaki Kurumi was there. Of course, you as well, Higoromo Hibiki.
H-Hey. My heart is not ready if you say that so suddenly… No, there’s no need to thank me. Well, I’m not a big deal. I think it could have been done without me.
Higoromo Hibiki. Speaking like that has already passed through humility and into what we call arrogance. You were Tokisaki Kurumi’s wand, sword, detainer, and booster. Will you also be going?
There is a 10% chance of dying. Yeah, well I’ll be going.
Is it because of lacking a body?
…Yeah, something like that. The other side is probably not where I belong. But being in a world without Kurumi-san would feel aimless. So well, I feel like I’m aiming for a one chance.
You don’t need to give up. Everyone, including Tokisaki Kurumi, lacks a body. But there’s a great difference between body and soul. A soul…cannot be made because the elements that compose it are completely unknown. But you can grasp what substances the body is made of. If you understand, there is something you can do. Because we have that power.
That’s──
Composition of chemical elements through Reiryoku. After all, a body is composed of substances that can be found anywhere. Then, it should be easy to build. With this, you should reach your desired conclusion.
What do you mean by this?
A body composition recipe for the substances the body is composed of. Just drum that into your head and do your best. That is exactly your one chance.
…So that’s it…! Hope, I can see it!
There you have it. In return, I got sick of looking at all those medical anatomy books. Since it’s a very heavy mental burden, I’m going to lie down or else I’m going to vomit a little.
(With that said, Yukishiro Maya expressed a faint, but exhausted smile. Plop, she laid down on the ground’s surface. I think it over while looking at the body composition recipe passed along. I wonder if there really is a one chance.)
Finally, please give a message for 10 years from now.
If I have ten years of time, it’ll be time to move on to the next action taken. Specifically, that would be writing. I’ve already decided on a plot, but the first line hasn’t been written yet.
Huh, what are you planning to write about?
A story of a girl who was reincarnated into the Neighboring World.
I know of a person like that. Tokisaki Kurumi is such a person.
But that would complicate the story to death. I plan on making a bland Quasi-Spirit the main character.
(No, I definitely think that Kurumi-san is suitable for being the main character!)
■ Jugasaki Retsumi
(Jugasaki Retsumi is the proxy Dominion of the Eighth Region Hod. And, in love with Banouin Kareha from the bottom of her heart, she was a Quasi-Spirit that had fallen in love. Perhaps that’s why I was overwhelmed by her voice at first.)
I’m thinking of going from the Neighboring World to the other world.
Huh, really!?
Yeah, I’m very serious. Oh, but I haven’t forgotten about Kareha. I remember her remarkably clearly. I haven’t forgotten her face at all. I’ve got a portrait just in case I forget. Fufu.
Honestly, I thought you would be staying in the Neighboring World. This is the world where Kareha-san passed away in.
On the contrary, if Kareha was alive and I was dead. I would think this, “don’t worry about me, I want you to go see lots of new worlds.” I definitely would say this, and I’m confident that Kareha would accept my words no matter what.
…And, Kareha-san would say the same thing?
Say, if it was the Kareha that I liked, she would absolutely accept that. While crying and saying that it is cruel, still──she would accept that I would be happy if I did that.
Love is invincible, isn’t it?
Oh yeah. My love is forward-looking, invincible, and cool! So that’s why, let’s do our best over there!
A number of Quasi-Spirits in the Eighth Region Hod also want to move to the other side.
My mission is protecting the children that Kareha tried to protect and achieving Kareha’s wishes for happiness by being happy myself. And surely, my happiness lies ahead in this venture.
Ah!
Ah?
I forgot! My name is Jugasaki Retsumi, the Dominion of the Eighth Region Hod! Nice to meet you! My hobby is shooting guns!
Isn’t it too late now!? Well anyway, it’s fine. Please hurry up and tell me more!
Life means keeping at it until one succeeds! Tomorrow is another day! The only thing that won’t change is my love for Kareha!
If I proceed to the other world, I would like to somehow convey the charm of that person! What’s one last thing you would say to yourself in 10 years?
I will love you even after 10 years, Kareha!
(Retsumi Jugasaki happily laughed while saying that. Quite as if she wasn’t afraid in the slightest of going to the other world. I imagine people like Kirari Rinemu and Jugasaki Retsumi are full of a pioneering spirit. But maybe that was the reason. The Quasi-Spirits who had decided to go from the Neighboring World to the other world weren’t scared because they were going together.)
■ Cistus
(Now, next up is a clone of Tokisaki Kurumi──strictly speaking, what would you even call a clone of a clone? Derived from the Tokisaki Kurumi that I know, a girl who is no longer Tokisaki Kurumi. That is the existence known as Cistus.)
So that’s why…you ended up coming here last. Well, will this serve as the last performance?
No, the last one is Kurumi-san. But I doubt if it will be an interview.
Oh, that’s right. Then here is my self-introduction. My name is Cistus. Or would it be more accurate to say I am a Tokisaki Kurumi that is no longer a Tokisaki Kurumi? I was captured by the White Queen. And once deprived of my power, my sense of self as Tokisaki Kurumi was shattered into pieces. And then, as Hibiki-san knows, I pointed my rifle at Tokisaki Kurumi to challenge her to a fight, lost──and was subsequently resurrected like this.
Are there any differences from before and after death?
In that regard, I think I’ve come to have a very different idea. Humans are like that, right? The Hibiki-san I know, and the Hibiki-san that I don’t know, are like different people entirely.
Ah…uh…that’s…certainly…
It’s not bad. People grow, and so do Quasi-Spirits. Even is there are no such changes in physical aspects, the mind is influenced by experience. Hibiki-san and me have engaged in such an adventure.
However, that also inevitably means moving away from the main axis of Tokisaki Kurumi. Having the same experiences and behavior would mean never deviating from that axis, but──
I have been filled with different experiences as well. Perhaps, I have been clearly disqualified as a Tokisaki Kurumi clone. In the first place, the color of this Astral Dress seems to be a good indication. I prefer yellow and white over red and black.
──Do you want to stay here?
Yes. I will stay. I want to travel around this area as I please. I want to live as I please. Forgetting my old purpose, forgetting my old dreams, leave behind everything including ties and sentiments. I──just want to live.
As Hibiki-san is aware, the other clones have a mission. However, I somehow think that it has likely already been fulfilled. Then, there is no need for clones anymore. That is to say──I am free. No matter where I go or what I do, I am free.
My name is Cistus. A person who was once Tokisaki Kurumi and is no longer Tokisaki Kurumi. Simply put, that is who I am.
Finally, do you have any words for yourself in 10 years?
To myself in ten years, you may come to regret this choice. You may lament that you should have returned back to the other world, to reality. But for me at this moment, this choice was inevitable. Your regrets are nothing more than begging for nothing. Please keep that in mind.
(Cistus said so with a fickle laugh. A little lonely, just slightly uneasy, but even with that she stood up trembling with hopes for the future. Something like that was tightly packed into her expression. Looking at that, I think to myself. Ah, I see. This person is no longer Tokisaki Kurumi. Even though she had the same face as her, it didn’t mean she was heading to the same destination as her. I can’t tell if that’s good or bad. I don’t know, but I think that’s fine for Cistus.)
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