Shinmai Maou no Keiyakusha - Volume 9 - Chapter 4

Chapter 4: Even So, Don't Give Up on the Future 

Part 1 

The morning of the decisive battle had arrived. 

At the first sign of morning light shone softly upon the << Village >>, Basara was already away from the Toujou household. 

Before dawn – Basara had left alone, leaving the sleeping Mio in the bedroom and headed to the corner of the mountain. This is where time had stopped during that day. 

It was a deep crater that was created by << Banishing Shift >> having ran havoc, remains of the place of that tragedy. 

…No, that’s not right. 

Standing at the rim of the crater he took in the sight of where he had once stood. 

This isn’t the remains – even now, and always, it will be the place of tragedy. 

Looking at it, the crater is washed over in morning light, flickering like it was on a mirror. This is most likely the substance of stopped time Shuuya had said. 

It had been six years since then. Despite that, not a single tree had sprout out in this place. “A dead land”, that is one meaning of those words. 

“…” 

It has been an hour since he arrived here. He has not a single word since. 

Coming here, Toujou Basara did not carry with him any words that he could vocalize. 

Coming here, Toujou Basara did not hold any expectation that anything would change. 

Much less, coming here, and having any illusion that something could be forgiven. 

Toujou Basara would not allow for that much. 

– The heroes of Japan, from now on too would continue to live in the << Village >>. 

Together with this place, scarred by the tragedy of that day. 

And – Basara too would live carrying the memory and truth of it. Remembering the crime he had committed, and could not take back. Even so, he will not look away from this truth – it is like this that he will fight Celis. 

…That’s right. 

His reason for coming here, is to reconfirm that much. 

What had he, in the past, caused her. What he, in the future, will do. 

The answer to that is all here. That’s why, facing it one by one, Basara thought of what he must do from here on. Closing his eyes quietly, staying there like that for a while. 

“–” 

And when he reopened his eyes, filled with determination, he turned his heels and began to walk. 

On the mountain road with cool early morning wind, he walked alone. And then, “– Basking in sentimentality?” 

An unknown voice from the side, and Toujou Basara stopped his tracks. Looking towards the row of trees there is one – at the giant bark, a young man rested his back while standing still. It was Shiba. 

“Getting all nostalgic about what’s lost in the past, carelessly regretting, instead of feeling self-satisfaction, it’s more of an intoxicating bad taste you know?” 

“…That’s not my intention” 

Despite Shiba’s mocking words, and his vigilance being one-on-one with Shiba, Basara stated without being agitated, to that, Shiba, “So, were you thinking more about what was lost yesterday?” 

I heard, said Shiba. 

“I can’t believe Yuki-chan and Kurumi-chan are leaving the clan… And disinherited, as to not trouble Shuuya-san and the others. While this escaped the condition I laid down, I can’t believe those girls picked such a reckless move” 

“…” 

Basara, saying nothing, walked away ignoring Shiba. The talk was going in a bad direction. It’s dangerous to keep on being here if he’s careless. However, Shiba did not let him escape with his cold words. 

“Hey… What’s a worse punishment to you Basara? The bond that Yuki and Kurumi lost with their family or” 

A pause. 

“The one just off from here – that place, where the corpses of your comrades had disappeared?” 

Those words stopped Basara in his path, he turned slowly towards Shiba. 

“Purposely taunting me with your words as I’m about to fight Celis… Do you want me to lose?” 

“Not at all . I don’t have any intention like that at all . Rather, you can say I’m cheering for you” 

Because, said Shiba 

“If Celis wins against you, she at least shows she can act as your deterrent. In that case, then the << Vatican >> would close in. Even if the << Village >> has lower combined fighting power, they could decide on how my existence is a risk and winning they’ll put me as a loyalist” 

That’s why 

“If you lose to Celis-chan, the << Village >> and << Vatican >> end up fighting – I’ll have to gut Celis-chan in retaliation” 

“–Shiba-san!!” 

At Shiba’s unbelievable words, Basara shouted out without thinking. 

“You’re loud Basara…. You’re going to turn me into Yamahiko.”[2] 

Shiba said that like he’s troubled, but his smile deepened. 

“Yuki-chan and Kurumi-chan left the clan, after making it so Shuuya-san and the others aren’t blamed… Surely you have thought of losing on purpose, letting Celis take credit for the victory? It would take some time to evaluate the strength of the << Village >> and << Vatican >>. With that, there is time to hurry and contact the Demons to negotiate peace and have it so you’re not taken to the << Vatican >> through that. Other than what that special envoy brought, surely they would be able to prepare other documents for you. At that too, it would excuse Celis’ responsibilities. In fact, winning against you, she would get a great evaluation from that” 

Shiba rambled on his reasoning, 

…This person really thought of everything, Basara thought, clicking his tongue. 

“But after you lose to Celis, and I kill her, the Vatican would surely follow on. I’ll be doubly sure to kill others they sent after that properly too. It’s fine if I give up after that but, on their honor, their pride as the center of the heroes, they will definitely take you with them to the << Vatican >>… I wonder what hand you can use then” 

Shiba said, like he was having fun, 

“You get it don’t you Basara? That I can do that. I’m sure your life surrounded by the holy knights and officers in a new land would be truly exciting. After all, it was because of you a number of their precious comrades would be killed. Their ill will, would surely extend to you more than to me, who would be far beyond the seas. Under the name of surveillance and deterrence, pretenses like that is easily degraded” 

“If you recklessly kill Celis like that, don’t you know what’ll happen to yourself?” 

“Of course. Even if I kill Celis-chan, nothing would change to how they treat me. Just like now, I’ll keep on being imprisoned” 

After all, said Shiba 

“Both the << Village >> and << Vatican >> – neither of them can kill me” 

“? What does that…” 

Shiba’s words, laced with a dark smile had a ring of truth to it, and at Basara’s puzzled question, “In any case it’s like that so, good luck on your duel” 

Shiba said, going around Basara’s words. 

“Celis-chan generally has her strength acknowledged by the << Vatican >>, coming here bearing the role of hearing officer and holy knight. By my diagnosis, her holy sword and your affinity is definitely not good” 

Furthermore, said Shiba, peeking through slit-eyes. 

“In addition to it, this << Village >> is a place where your spiritual power is easily felt” 

Good luck… Saying that, Shiba stepped down the mountain. 

Pushing down his words within him, Basara was left in that place. 

Part 2 

And then – as the sun appeared in the perfectly clear sky, rising as high as it could go. 

The time of Basara and Celis’ duel finally arrived. 

In an area of the mountain outside the << Village >> used for real battle training – in the middle of that, a large basin much like caldela. There is wild grass growing within the depth of the crater, as well as on the surrounding slope, separating out the soil from the flatness. 

– It was much like a natural arena. 

And then, on top of the slope from this site of battle are those who came as audience, having already gathered to watch Basara and the others, belonging to various factions. 

The eastern clan of heroes – together with the three leaders, others of the << Village >> are seen in all directions. There are those who come from houses of influence like Shuuya and Kaoru, as well as those with considerable battle skills such as Takashi. And then, those who are related to the sacrifices of the tragedy and wished to watch was also present. And then Shiba, who had instigated this battle, was right at the elders side with a thin smile on his face. Among the varied members of the village, Cleo Anzels, who was dispatched from Vatican was present. 

And on the west side are those who came with Basara to << Village >>. Naruse Mio, Nonaka Yuki, Nonaka Kurumi. That is, the girls who live together with Basara, deciding his future. Yuki and Kurumi, who should be standing on the heroes’ side till yesterday happened, is now there – existing on Basara’s side. The envoy from the demons, Takigawa, is also seen near them, Those who gather there all came to watch, for their own future. 

The result of this battle would decide each of their destiny. 

And the two of them who fight carry many futures on their backs – Toujou Basara and Celis Reinhardt’s figures, were already standing in the midst of the field in the eyesight of the audience. 

“…” “…” 

However they stayed silent, not exchanging even a word. 

Basara closed his eyes, concentrating on his spiritually, while Celis gazed down, regulating her breath. 

That is, a body and mental preparation for them to unleash their full strength. 

Childhood friends who are reunited after seven years, forced to fight due to Shiba’s schemes – it’s easy to imagine how Basara and Celis both lament over this situation. 

“Why do we have to” “Why is this happening” …Thinking of saying that, there are many words that could be said. 

– But neither Basara nor Celis said anything. 

A peaceful method – a path that could end without any fighting, surely that exists. 

However, the situation is as they could see it now. There, they have not even the slightest all owance for sentimentality or presumption of kindness. Basara who holds the demon sword Brynhild, Celis with her holy sword Georgius. That is the indisputable truth of this reality. 

And then, at the apex of this anxiety – the air surrounding them twisted for a second. 

At that moment, the figures of those who watched them from the slopes disappeared. 

The boundary had been set up. With that, a booming voice, an announcement using magic came from somewhere. 

“This fight, is to the end between us the << Village >> and << Vatican >> to establish our effectiveness in being able to suppress Basara and his group.” 

It was the voice of one of the three elders – Fuji. 

“To prevent any major damages as a result of this fight, the space within the barrier will be recovered to its original state after” 

That is, the same barrier as the time they had fought Takashi and “Byakko”. 

“That is not just to do with the surrounding. Of course, to prevent you from losing your lives… And any huge damage to your bodies would be contrary to our goals to evaluate properly, and hence this barrier is akin to a training space that would convert damage to your bodies to one of stamina and spiritual damage. It is fine for both of you to not hold back.” 

It is a popular boundary for training matches between heroes. 

– That’s right, this battle does not gamble on their lives. 

But – the end of this battle holds the future and destiny of Basara and Mio and the other girls who live with him, of the heroes clan in Japan, << Village >> and of the heroes clan in Europe, << Vatican >>. 

… Beside. 

This practice barrier has both its merit and demerit. With the no death safety, they can go out with their full strength – what kind of moves and attacks would that hold would really grow to be sublime. It’s also not for themselves but for the << Village >>, and it’ll be accomplished earnestly. 

And then, though they will not sustain physical damage there are other factors. Changing it to spiritual damage, and in that losing out stamina – in other words there is still pain involved in the process. 

The death that is possible in a fight, while at times cruel and ghastly, also could be a saving grace that ends it. With gaps in power, to avoid useless suffering it could lead to another choice. 

– So, if it’s between two with balanced strength, in a fight with no death, what would happen? 

It’s a fight about killing each other’s hearts, very easily becoming intense. 

And then Basara and Celis both have things they do not want to lose, with that they pierce through with their resolutions… And then in a bit, they can no longer avoid the intensity of battle. 

Even if that is exactly as Shiba planned. And then, “—” 

Toujou Basara, slowly unsheathed his blade. At that directly in front of him, Celis who no longer looked down stood. She looked at him with clear eyes, composed and beautiful – her emerald eyes showed the same determination as Basara. So, …Yes, that’s right. 

Basara once more thought of the meaning of this battle. There was a possibility he was swayed by Shiba’s threats. But with the truth it contained he cannot lose. He cannot let Shiba kill his precious childhood friend Celis. 

If Basara lost, it is likely that the battle to prove the power between << Vatican >> and << Village >> would too, use this kind of boundary. 

…But 

There is no doubt that even so Shiba would find a way to kill his opponent. 

And then, Basara had not forgotten the words of his childhood friend Takashi last night. 

– Takashi had asked of Basara’s resolve. 

It had been half a year since he fought Takashi and the spear “Byakko” – how much had he been able to change since then, Toujou Basara isn’t sure. Furthermore, he had not yet found a way to truly face the tragedy of that day. However, almost greedily, the number of things he must protect kept increasing, and to protect that all he can do is to fight to his utmost. Still, the strength to protect all that is not something he has yet. 

….But. 

It’s good to just ignore his own place now. Despite that, he would still not give up – So “Begin” 

At the same time as Fuji, who announced the start. 

“—!” 

Toujou Basara stepped off from the ground, charging forward. 

Part 3 

Under the blue sky, the battle between two who hold wishes they can not give up on unfolds. 

There was a vibration. Yet it was not simply one thing that did – At the clashing of their swords with loud metallic echoes, the waves that came from the attacks they unleashed made the ground shake in its destruction. 

– The source of all that was Toujou Basara and Celis Reinhardt. 

With the slopes of the large crater serving as a wall, the sounds of their fight reverberate. The echoing sound had a complex twist, it was due to the sound waves – after one is generated, it was soon intervened by the following. 

That phenomenon is due to the super high speed of the unfolding of their fight. Basara and Celis attacked with exchanges faster than the wind – that is the curtain lifting on the clashes of their respective blades. 

To the demon blade “Brynhildr” Basara used, Celis met with her holy sword “Georgius”. Though he did not understand this from the time Celis had unsheathed the blade against Shiba the day before, now he knows it as she unsheathed the blade and called out the name “Georgius”. That is the name of the famous dragon killing saint – and the sword that bore that name is one of the prided weapons of the << Vatican >>. In this storm of swords which did not all ow for even a breath or a blink. 

…For sure. 

Basara thought of the Georgius Celis wields. The sword meeting his demon sword that can control all four elements fire, wind, water and earth – is that “Georgius”. A name that meant “farmer”, its name originated from the dragon-slaying saint who protected the common people. 

For farms, it is important to be blessed with land that is blessed by the heavens. In short, the plentiful earth would contain an earth element, the rain that falls upon it, water element, the clouds that brought rain would have the wind element, and the sun that shone bright upon that land would be a fire element, all these are needed, the sword Georgius would then be able to wield all these elements. The namesake, Georgius had slain a dragon using a spear, so for it to be a sword, it must be because it was decided that this is a more effective fighting style for the four elements. 

That being said, Basara’s Brynhildr is also considered the strongest of demon swords. Therefore there is no lethal difference between their weapons’ potential. The victor of this battle, will be decided by the skill of the person who wields those weapons. However, as he crossed swords with Celis, Basara realized the difference between himself and Celis. There is no doubt he is stronger physically. However, …In swordsmanship, Celis is unmistakably better… 

She take the blows he dealt out – and then, the sharpness and break in how she attacked is beyond his skills. While there is still a way to climb up to bridge these differences, the sensation he felt is similar to the fight with Zolgia or Leohart . 

– Once, when Celis had came to the village for the visit when they were young, Basara had a practice match against her. Due to her skill even then being amazing, of the Village children only Basara could square off with her. 

And then, as Celis grew older, to compensate for the physical gap between men and women, she surely had focused on her swordsmanship. 

However, back then Basara had managed to somehow win against Celis. 

The aspect that broke their match at the time – is what Basara has that remained unchanged. 

What he trusted on, even during the match with Zolgia and Leohart. 

Speed. So then, 

“—Let’s go” 

Putting strength in how he stepped off the ground, – As a result, Basara brought out his fastest. 

During the time he was away from Celis, she continued to hone her swordsmanship – Basara too, with the battles up to now and his contract with Mio and the others, continued to hone his speed. 

During the time against Zolgia and Leohart, he didn’t win with just speed, there are other aspects of his swordsmanship too. But his opponent now is Celis, Hence, Basara brought his speed and physical strength to surpass Celis’ swordsmanship. 

“….!” 

Instantly, a pained expression on her face. Basara’s speed and strength began to pressure down on Celis’ sword. The clashing is a one way attack from Basara. With this he pushed down all at once – with that thought, Basara continued on his relentless attack, breaking Celis’ posture, 

“–” 

Celis, who unknowingly gulped down, her posture shaken at the exchange - At a small moment of opening “Haaaaaaaaaaah!” 

The cutting scream that Basara let out, comes with a full power sweeping attack. 

It wasn’t possible for Celis to dodge by moving back. That being said, taking this carelessly would cause her to be overpowered, she leaped to the side and moved up to meet his attack. 

Hence, Brynhildr moved down in one swing – yet it did not manage to do as it intended to the end. 

What Brynhildr cut through was just air. Celis surpassed Basara’s attack. She had moved back to dodge, again, then flew up. That seemed like it was impossible physically. Celis’ figure completely disappeared from Basara’s sight – which is why Basara looked up. There, around 20m from the ground, Celis’ figure could be seen with her white cape fluttering behind her. The sword she held in her right hand had brought her up in an instant – the Holy Sword “Georgius”, the magic blade with four layers configured in its blade, was lit up as it was surrounded by green-colored particles. 

“I see, that’s—” 

Basara understood as he gazed up – at the end of his gaze, was the power of one of four elements within Georgius. And then, “I have received reports but… You’ve truly grown strong Basara, you truly have” 

Celis said, looking down to the ground. 

“If that was the strength you’ve cultivated since we were away then —” 

A pause. 

“–This time, it’s my turn to show you mine” 

Her eyes glinted coldly. Celis who’s unleashing Georgius’ power has the same long range as Mio and Kurumi, as a long range mage. However, from how she had dodged his attack in an instant, she must not have a need for any special arrangements or incantations. Hence, “–I won’t let you!” 

In an Instant, Basara moved. With an opponent who can wield the four elements, having an opening here is fatal. 

Hence Basara lashed out Brynhildr, swinging it to the side from his posture starting at his hips. With that, he’s releasing Brynhildr from its dimensional shaft, unleashing “Jigenzan”.[3] However Celis is now, completely out of Brynhildr’s reach – Hence, Basara’s goal in unleashing his demon sword and dropping his spiritual energy is to respond to her. From its base to its tip, the sword trembled as its unsheathed, with a high pitched shrill noise, it shook the air around it, as well as the unclear dimensional space as it launched. With that, with Brynhildr ahead of him – 

Basara launched himself up to Celis. While Basara could launch himself up at high speed, cutting through the air, there’s a high chance Celis would counter it. However, …With this! 

If he could take on the sword, Basara who knows magic would be able to cut it off. And then, this should be the first time Celis sees this move – with it, there’s a large enough chance he would be able to respond to her. 

“–” 

Basara chose to come flying with “Jigenzan” and met with Celis’ brandished Georgius. Just as he aimed – Basara thought as Celis swung her sword in the opposite direction. There was a clang however, it was Basara’s “Jigenzan”. 

“Wh–!?” 

Basara let out his surprise without thinking. He was not surprised at how Jigenzan was stopped – but rather, in the method of which Celis had chosen to do so. What blocked Jigenzan was not Georgius itself – but rather, a Basara made of air that was produced by it. And that also means that it met him at equal force. Though he’s stunned at this as is, …So the opposite swing was…!? 

The way Basara had cut upwards, has set his course with how he had unleashed it. 

However, Celis had come down to meet him with a swing with force. With that, “— What are you so surprised at?” 

A calm voice said from above him. 

“An unsheathing using the dimensional barrier… That kind of move is truly sharp but, but to say simply, it is in the end a sword of air. It is inevitable as it cuts up to here that it will have its strength decreased by friction, won’t it?” 

And then. 

“Even as I unsheathe it, my Georgius can sharpen past the air and cloak it. Repelling it is a simple maneuver.” 

Celis said casually as she looked down upon Basara – And Georgius in her hand, had somehow changed from the color of wind to that of red flame, the blade surrounded with a super high temperature, blazes flickering. 

“– Could it be, what is meant by using it ‘at will’ is that, you can use the elements at the same time –?” 

“That’s obvious. There are many others who can use the four elements, and many types of magic that does that. When I said at will, this is what I meant” 

Celis who said that, readied Georgius to her side. 

“And then, with this I will cut through again – haaaaah!” 

“–!” 

Celis took the same stance as Basara as she came down with her attack again, Basara took a large leap back – Right after, the basin they were in had all its wild grass cut down in one stroke. Even so, there was not a single noise or strike. It was all in the aftershock. The moved Celis unleashed far exceeded Basara’s “Jigenzan”, and like a polished mirror it spread over the crater and to the area around it – and continued on further. 

“…What’s this power…” 

With the careless words, Basara’s impression of it was wrung out. 

“That speed… Indeed, you’re indeed quite difficult” 

So then, Celis said that, but she brandished a single sideways sweep. Basara responded by moving back. However this time, she did not cut through the area. Instead, in its place, when Basara is about to land, “–What?” 

The ground beneath him shook strangely, catching down Basara’s feet as he landed – and then, as he looked. 

Celis’ Georgius is no longer wind or fire, but shone with the color of water and earth, with that, the trembling of the ground increased “It can’t be —” 

In that instant, Basara saw the route of Celis’ swing go upstream. With that, it included the slope up north – As he just thought of that, in the next moment he saw an avalanche of earth and stones moving much like a tsunami. 

“–!” 

Basara had a moment to judge his initial response to it, and on the trembling ground he began running to the south. 

The area permitted for the fight between Basara and Celis is not just this crater. It spreads in the valley of the mountains for this training space. As such, there’s no reason to stay in this crater facing an opponent like Celis, who wields Georgius. Perhaps he could move somewhere that’s at least a little better to fight on. Yet – seeing Basara’s plan to run to the forest to the south to fight. 

“– Do you think I’d let you go so easily?” 

Celis’ next attack quickly smashed through. The attack she just unleashed, this time hit the slope of the south to go down on Basara. 

“Kuh…!” 

Even with the path closed off, Basara continued to run south. Switching to east or west, would simply cause Celis to do the same to those sides. 

“In that case, then it’s better to just keep on like this– Uoooogh!” 

As Basara kept running on ahead, he used Brynhildr’s tip to dig into the ground, swinging it upwards. With that impact which thrust up the earth, Celis’ avalanche which blocked his path flew off for a few meters, opening up a path. 

“Tch, with this – Gah!?” 

However, right as he leap on forward – Basara went upwards from below. The earth that rose up with Celis’ Georgius, hit up Basara’s torso. 

In one moment to the sky – Basara’s body which was brought up to the same height as Celis was completely defenseless. 

“Didn’t I say… I won’t let you go so easily” 

Celis let out a cold voice, which Basara could hear from right behind him. With that, 

“Guh…. Ooooooooooooooooooh!” 

Basara forced his body to twist back, attacking to his back. 

“– Take this” 

As Celis’ voice could just be heard – Basara received an attack straight to his side. 

Georgius used the wind around it, unleashing the air it wrapped around itself on him. 

Part 4 

It was inevitable for Basara, who received the brunt of Celis’ attack to come flying off. 

Tossed off to the corner west side – and soon after, a thundering came from the far off forests. 

Basara had crashed into the forested area. And then, a rumbling impact came from the forest. It was not just Basara that fell to the ground as he was blown off by Celis, the impact also hit the floor of the forest and some of the trees fell. Mio, who watched as that was shown outside the barrier, “Basara…!” 

She let out a pained voice without thinking. She had never thought that Celis would be an easy opponent but, even so Basara was able to fight the present demon lord Leohart and succeed in facing off against the demon god Chaos. Of course, in general, one can’t say if Celis is stronger than Leohart or Chaos. In the demon realm, where demon particles are stronger, Celis of the hero clan and the sword Georgius would be considerably weakened. If so, “What’s with, that sword… Isn’t this cheating!” 

As a demon magic user herself, Mio finds herself growing irritated with Celis’ all -purpose fighting style. The High Wizard Mio and the Element Master Kurumi too, can wield all four elements – but something like using them at the same time, as well as without incantation is preposterous. Though that magic usage itself is plenty overwhelming, Celis also had amazing sword skills. 

There are those magic sword users that did not fully excel in either magic nor swordsmanship, but combined them together, but Celis is on an exceptional level for both her magic and swordsmanship. Furthermore, there is another reason why it’s one-sided in her favor. That is, “As expected, Basara is–” 

The words spilled from Yuki, who’s beside Mio – something that Basara had been in distress about. 

From the beginning of the fight, Basara had not been using Banishing Shift. 

If he had used that or a similar move, he surely would be able to go against Celis’ rock avalanche. 

However, Basara did not – no, he cannot. 

…Basara… 

He’s surely hesitating in using the ability that had caused the tragedy once, in this place where it happened. However, Celis did not have any hesitation and doesn’t feel lost about it. 

“–” 

With a cold expression, she used Georgius’ wind to fly over, following after Basara who had flown to the forest in the west. Yes… The fight is not over. 

And then – Mio can do nothing but watch on in this situation. 

Part 5 

Basara who fell to the west forest, is now in the midst of earth and trees that were as such, still being slashed down. 

“Guh… Gah… Ah… Guh…!” 

Though he frantically moved Brynhildr to counter the earth and large trees, there’s no break in the earth and trees from all directions. 

– But, there’s something that stopped Basara from moving back. However, it was not any of the ruins. It was a large opening on the ground he could not see the bottom of – a ten meter wide cliff. 

Furthermore, the cliff on the opposite side is a rock wall which is tall enough he would have to look up to see the top of it, moving hard towards it, Basara would have to get to the rocky wall without falling. 

“Gah… Ah…!” 

Releasing all the oxygen he had taken in, he let himself fall into the valley of unknown depths as he took in and held another breath. He was flown off to the forest to the west of the field. With the geography of this in mind, Basara had a grasp of the bottom of the valley. As he heard the sound of water flowing under him, he could ascertain there was indeed a stream below him, “—Damn!” 

He moved Brynhildr, previously thrust towards the rocky walls of the opposite cliff, choosing to escape to the waters below. 

He thrust at the water not due to the possibility of attack. As Celis is compatible with all elements, falling into water could be a decisive moment when not careful. With that, “—That is not the wrong decision” 

Celis’ voice could be heard from right over him. She had surely chased him here with her flight magic. 

“However, how naïve… Did you forget the attack that sent you flying at the field?” 

“—!” 

At once, Basara kicked off the stone walls to fly to the sky. With that, the stone wall he had thrust Brynhildr to, had pillars shooting up with a loud sound. 

It was a close cal . Yet, Basara’s mind was already on the next move. In the field earlier, he was trapped by the stones Celis sent at him from both north and south. Hence – the moment he thought of that, the stones he had flown off then had a pillar of stones as well, “So it is like that…!” 

At the condition he successfully read, Basara arranged his body towards the sky, and as the stone pillars rose up he was able to rush away from the way it leaned upwards, in the opposite way of that. With how Celis’ next attack runs up to him, he let his body fly into the thickly growing forest. 

…Even when they fight like this, Celis won’t win… 

As he run through the line of trees, Basara gritted his teeth. 

Firstly by hiding he will gather himself – he will challenge Celis after that. 

Celis lost track of Basara’s figure as he ran into the forest. 

Even as she surveyed the area carefully, she could not feel an indication of Basara. 

“….” 

Wordlessly, Celis used Georgius to descend down to the ground from the sky. 

Because of the way the trees cloak, if she was to attack from above with wind too, it would not be of considerable strength. 

Besides that remaining in the sky, is like telling Basara who’s hiding to come and aim at her. She could respond in her earlier dimension wrapping as she drew her sword. 

…But 

She isn’t sure if Basara really does not have something to be able to respond from a further distance with greater power. If she wasn’t able to escape from an attack coming from a blind spot properly, there is a chance that it could end up being a one stroke victory for Basara. Besides, 

…It was certainly exhausting. 

With a light dizziness on her, Celis thought of her own condition. The sword Celis carries, Georgius could be called all purpose in how it fights but, it has one weakness – in that it is exhausting to both the user’s physical and magical strength. With how it has no need for an incantation, and its ability to wield more than one element at the same time, it takes up four times more the magical and spiritual energy of a regular magic sword. With how she’s fighting right now, she would most likely be able to last for another hour. There’s also a chance Basara who’s hiding himself is trying to fight on terms of exhausting energy. Here too, she may have to soon suppress Georgius’ power and use regular swordsmanship. 

…No. 

Basara had that godly speed. He is running through the line of trees at top speed but, that means that her visibility is further lowered. Though he was exiled from it, this forest was once akin to a backyard to Basara. There’s a possibility he was able to move effectively through it without wasting energy. This condition could be of risk to her later. 

That’s why, Celis Reinhardt has to make her launch with preparation of exhaustion on her. 

“–” 

Concentrating her will, on a single magic as wielded by Georgius. 

The result of that is from the sky – rain began to fall. 

With Celis’ movement, Toujou Basara who’s hidden in the shade of trees nearby began to be unclear. 

What kind of attack type is coming – and with that too, …What is she aiming at? 

The sound of rain erases all presence. Of course, the wet ground would betray his footsteps, but by the time she caught up with that sound he would’ve been at a different location. With the fog and mist too, the low visibility of the forest would simply be lowered. 

Thinking about it, it could be a way to reduce his speed and movement with how muddy the ground is. If that is the case, then she was definitely taking away his greatest weapon. However, Basara will not sit still and be cornered. Though he isn’t sure what Celis’ aim is, if he goes on it’ll be clearer. 

Thinking of that – Basara began his movement with a shout. 

He will flip this from a defensive fight on his side to an offensive one. As he flew out from the shadow of the trees, Basara is already at his top speed. Using the rustling sounds of thick trees to mask and fake himself, Basara aimed to confuse Celis from outside her field of vision – angling himself to her weak point, he planned to cut Celis from there. With the single stroke, it’s best to go straight for her neck – and that’s what he did. Basara comes with his all from the side, swinging the back of his sword “–” 

But Basara’s attack did not touch a hair on Celis. 

It wasn’t a close dodge – he completely missed her. 

Part 6 

“Wha–?!” 

Celis Reinhardt heard Basara’s surprised voice as she slightly opened her eyes. 

— Celis is presently, able to completely read Basara’s movement. 

As Basara moved within the forest at his top speed, she could not completely follow him using her sight of movement and she solved it by a surveying attack from outside it. That’s why she chose to use Georgius to completely cover the area. She is using water, wind and earth all at the same time. The raindrops that fall upon Basara sense the flow of Basara’s movement, the earth he stepped on – feeling that movement, with that Celis could see Basara’s movement. And then, 

…No, more…! 

Without balking at the strain on her body and spirit, Celis further rose Georgius’ responses. 

With that she has complete view of the spiritual levels of the area – from understanding Basara’s movement it rose to being able to predict it. 

“– Over there!” 

With a certain shout Celis shouted and swung Georgius with a water magic. 

The water that came from the tip of her sword, in a second it enveloped in Basara. 

“Guh… Koh…. Nnh…” 

Basara frantically struggled to be able to escape what captures him, enveloping his body but, the water transformed to a whip, wrapping itself around him and not letting go. With that, “I won’t let you go now–” 

Celis said, this time changing to attack. 

She waved Georgius like a conductor’s stick. 

Right after – she sent a shock right through the forest and Basara within that space. 

“–” 

Celis moved at the speed of which her hands looked hazy, swinging Georgius and cutting through with it, a 8 beat super speed. In a normal space, he would not escape death as it breaks all the bones in his body and ruptures all his organs and vessels. But here within the barrier – he isn’t going to die. 

In exchange of that, Basara is quickly losing both stamina and spiritual power. At the start Basara was able to escape effectively, but due to how Georgius’ water whips catching to him and him feeling that,his body had been weakened. 

And then – after three minutes passed he began to no longer feel all the resistance. The trees, the ground, the rocks all came to attack Basara, the shock on his body had exceeded over a thousand hits. The trees falling around Basara that’s cut by him, it began to form a clear space. 

…It’s about time. 

Celis stepped light to the left-front, like she’s thrusting forward her hips, and she swung Georgius – With that, the tip of the sword which she had been releasing the water whips from, mince forward to Basara with a wind cutting vooon sound. It was a bedrock, high enough you could look up to it crashing into Basara’s back – with the intense vibration came the loud sound, a large spider nest ran up. With that, “…” 

It topped Basara, letting him fall on his backside. By then, Brynhildr and armor are both gone — 

- the physicalization of them having broken off during Celis’ attack. 

Basara was expressionless as he leaned against the bedrock, it wasn’t visible as he hung his head down, his face covered by his long bangs. Though there is no damage on his actual body, his clothes are torn up, dirtied too by the dirt that clung on as trees and earth attacked him – it’s long near destroyed. 

“–Basara, what are you doing?” 

Celis Reinhardt asked, Georgius in hand, she began to shoot another. That question was, “The attack just now – You could’ve escaped it with Banishing Shift” 

Toujou Basara heard the question Celis asked. 

The damage he had taken due to Celis’ water whip is considerable, he is in no place to waste energy with just any answer –but he heard her. With that, “With this, there is no doubt you will lose to me… Even so, do you still plan to not use your strength to the very end?” 

Could it be, said Celis. 

“To begin with, the risk that is seen in you is how your power could run wild like the time of that tragedy. Even if I’m to win against you like this, it still does not prove that the Vatican has enough power to act as a deterrent against you… Could it be you’re planning something so naïve?” 

Her merciless words pierced through. At Celis’ words, …Why… 

Basara didn’t understand the situation, He didn’t understand why Celis said those words. 

She’s thick skinned even though she knows of the tragedy Basara had caused here – he isn’t planning to say that. It’s more on how her duty as an officer of << Vatican >> is to win. She could go on without thinking much of it, and should aim to do so quickly – but that isn’t what Celis is doing. 

In short, Celis is trapped by the doubt she voiced. 

Winning without Basara using Banishing Shift would not solve the political problems. 

– But there’s a reason Toujou Basara isn’t using Banishing Shift in this battle. 

It’s due to the balance that’s tipped within his body. As he tied the contract with Hasegawa and received great strength, a negative side effect of adding the power of a heavenly being is he’s imbalanced and isn’t able to quite use Banishing Shift without the activation condition. Although he cannot disappear completely, it is still possible to have it forcefully in burst, as well as work out Shoumetsukensen*, (*literally Extinction Sword*) as per his training with Jin in the demon world. As Celis said, it was possible for him to use this to escape from her water whips earlier. 

With that, 

“Or is this – your atonement in regard to that tragedy?” 

Basara did not move at Celis words – however, atonement was not in his plan. If it was, then it would just not be in this village, but he would refrain from ever using Banishing Shift ever again anywhere, it would be meaningless otherwise. Yet since he’s met Mio, in all the fights since he repeatedly used Banishing Shift. To do so holding back on it as he goes to the village would not be atonement – it would just be deception. 

But, it is the truth that in the Village, in that site of the tragedy, using Banishing Shift or Shoumetsukensen* (*Extinction Sword*) is something he hesitates to do, feeling the obligation of that much. 

…Besides, 

There’s a reason why Basara cannot use Banishing Shift or Shoumetsukensen* (*Extinction Sword*). But it isn’t a reason he has to say to Celis. Finally, at Basara’s silence, 

“–So be it, then watch” 

With that Celis put energy into Georgius in her hand, it shone with the four colors of her magic. 

That means it holds Fire, Water, Earth and Wind. 

“Haaaah–!” 

In that condition Celis swung down Georgius, it happened. 

The bedrock behind Basara – it had disappeared without a trace. 

Part 7 

Those outside the barriers too, saw that Celis made the bedrock behind Basara disappear. 

There was just one person who could speak during that, when everyone was so surprised that they were at a loss for words. 

“Could it be… Celis can do Banishing Shift too?” 

It was Takashi who spoke in a way that showed he did not believe his own eyes, to that, “No, that’s something else” 

Came a voice with a smile lacing it – it was Shiba. They did not realize when the thin-eyed young man who should be standing a distance away closed in nearby. However, Takashi was not surprised by Shiba’s sudden appearance by him – Shiba Kyouichi after all, was a man of such powers. 

“…What do you mean, Shiba-san?” 

Only questioning the words Shiba said, Shiba nodded with a “hm”, “The material of this world is configured in three dimensions. But, that is all to do with the shape of the material and the existence of a material also has two more factors to it that can be moved. The first is the weight… The other, is the flow of time. The material could simply disappear there… However using the passage of time the material could also disappear from the place and it could be counted like that. In short, using the power of the four elements, an item that would be erased when it hit with it will disappear – And hence, that’s the role it can play” 

“So it’s through the circumstance of “Georgius”, which can wield the four elements…” 

Takashi murmured, being convinced of this argument. 

“Yes, that is indeed so. Well, from a while ago Celis has been using a lot of energy as she attacked using the five powers but, there is a necessary vector to release this from a distance. Oh dear, this is truly the holy sword the Vatican took so much pride in.” 

Said Shiba. 

“Anyway, being able to utilize the power of Georgius in this way, and on top of it completely showing us its capabilities… Celis-chan is really something. Well, even so as Celis-chan is able to do so with Georgius, it’s still dependent largely on external factors.” 

But, said Shiba. 

“Her opponent Basara’s Banishing Shift, even before he held Brynhild he had always been able to do it. In short, it is entirely an internal power – a power Basara himself possesses. Furthermore, regarding the bedrock Celis erased within the barrier that could recover, Basara could erase it, as is using his magic sort of super power.” 

At this Shiba opened his eyes slightly. 

“If the target is a something with a sort of magical power – a being with some sort of spiritual energy, it has to be erased alongside that. Further, the internal spiritual energy and, the external energy that comes with the relating surrounding goes both ways. And in that flow of time, all of it exist. If that is sent to the Zero Dimension where time does not exist, all the axis of time too must also cease to exist… There won’t even be a miniscule amount of twist to it. Furthermore, as it completely ceases to exist, it also causes friction with the small details regarding the surrounding of the materials and that must be calculated for.” 

Do you understand? 

“Basara’s Banishing Shift erases it completely… At the worst it intervenes to the ninth dimension, it’s an ability that consist of unleashing out the perfect balance. It’s completely twisted.” 

“…” 

At Shiba’s words, Takashi found himself at a loss for words. It is true that Banishing Shift is an ability unique to Basara alone, so they had thought of the mysteries and logic of it among themselves. Even asking Basara himself, they would not be able to get roughly what it is, but not the full gist of it. If what Shiba says is true, …Basara, what are you…? 

Just as Takashi thought of his childhood friend who held incomprehensible power. 

“– This is the power I’ve developed during our time apart” 

Celis’ voice could be heard, alongside the image for what’s inside the barrier. 

Part 8 

Toujou Basara looked up to see Celis. 

With that, in front of him Celis looked down upon him with coldness in her eyes. 

“I understand your evasion that came from a fear of your own power… However, even if you look away from it, your regret will not disappear. That power exists with you. You cannot run from it.” 

But. 

“Those girls who you wish to protect – even now, in this moment where you are trapped by the tragedy of your past that cannot be undone, they stand by your side. They let you lean on them and support you. They try to understand the pain that you hold. But Basara… The you right now, don’t you take advantage of their kindness, and drag them into the pain of your own tragedy?” 

Celis had said that, expressing another side to Basara. 

“Celis—” 

Basara who called out her name dumbfoundedly, now understood Celis’ true aim. 

Her harsh words and attacks, they’re all done thinking of Basara. With that, “Please don’t misunderstand me. Of course you should not forget your past. It’s most likely that you have to resolve yourself to carrying the burden of that tragedy as you live on, for the rest of your life. I do not mind that being the case… But, you are due to give your ‘answer’” 

Do you get it? 

“Atonement isn’t something you can find in the past – It’s only in the present and the future. So the answer should be from what you hold dear now, as it should be of those who currently hold you dear to them. For you live on into the future” 

Hence. 

“If, your power now might endanger those you love, as well as endanger this world… It is in that time I will stop you, Basara” 

A pause. 

“Even if – I have to kill you with my own hands” 

That answer is Celis’ resolve, and she wiped her tears with her left hand. 

“— It’ll be decided by this next move.” 

Saying that, she raised Georgius up high, holding it with both her hands. At the same time, at the tip of that, a large magic formation could be seen. It grew bigger gradually – at that, the surroundings grew dark. When you look, over the large amount of magic forming, a large blazing rock floats, and then Celis swung down her Georgius – At that moment, Basara clenched his fist tightly, Celis’ resolve resounding at the back of his mind, it is precisely because of that he thought of those he cannot let go of, and then he remembered. 

Last night, what Takashi said to him – that Basara has to show his resolve now. 

– That time, Takashi is asking him what Basara is. 

Is it alright for the answer to be someone that is trapped in the past, as he lost to Celis? 

…No, way… 

That’s why he has no time for hesitation. Finally, Toujou Basara will play his trump card. The power he received from Hasegawa Chisato – he will unleash the power of Brynhildr. 

– And then, as Basara who seemed like he was deliberating was about to move. 

The blazing rock Celis had for him, akin to a small sun, was already closing in on him. 

At that time, Celis Reidhart’s figure could be seen in the sky. 

So she was not hit by the effect of an explosion, she had used her magic to fly up to the sky. 

Celis waited for the decisive moment around 1 km away from the place. 

– Just now, she had used Georgius’ all four elements for the Banishing move. 

But now Celis has water and wind turned off, and in turn she has a forceful earth and fire element with each other – releasing a super high heat ball and letting a meteorite descend down. 

The intense force combined with the super high heat flame, would easily scorch Basara’s surrounding. 

If he does an incomplete Banishing Shift, it’d be the same as it splintering out into the surrounding. In this condition, it shouldn’t be possible for him to completely make it disappear. Hence, 

…With this. 

She would win against Basara – And then, she would be able to take him to the Vatican. 

– When she heard about the tragedy at << Village >> when she’s overseas. 

Basara was already expelled, Yuki and Kurumi, and Takashi and others too had changed, and more of their friends lost their lives, these were the people Celis befriended when she could visit Japan. 

All Celis Reidhart held dear was completely lost. But as she watched Yuki and the others grit their teeth and eagerly grow stronger, Celis had a new resolve. 

That she too would grow stronger. That she would achieve power where she could protect those she held dear. 

And then, she finally came this far, a Vatican Holy Knight, chosen to wield Georgius – she’s now in a place where she could protect Basara and the others. 

Among her comrades in Vatican, there are those who would see Basara’s group as an enemy, and her superiors may use them for their political advantage. But expecting such a situation, Celis and those she trust would protect them from it. Besides, expelling Basara was decided by the Village in Japan alone. The Vatican could refute that, and restore Basara to the hero clan, for him to be a holy knight like Celis then, would not just be a dream. In that case, Yuki and Kurumi who had left the clan could return too. While Mio and the other two demons may be more difficult, as their contract with Basara is recognized, surely something could be managed somehow. 

And after establishing his place in Vatican, surely he could return to Japan on a transfer or dispatch in the future as well. 

Celis, who envisioned that future, watched the moment as she flew in the sky. 

As the large meteorite she cast fell to the ground. 

“—?!” 

She gulped down with her surprise. No explosion happened. The large meteorite, was dispersed by an attack – it’s different from an incomplete Banishing Shift, as it flew in a completely different way. What happened… The shocked Celis realized that. 

That in front of her is Basara, cloaked with a crimson aura. 

Toujou Basara had used a certain power to guard against the large meteor. 

It’s the power of one of his two mothers, the demon side – the power of Sapphire. 

When he faced Leohart and the demon Chaos, he had fought in a similar way. 

– But now, Basara had used the power in a different way than at that time. 

The soul inside Brynhildr – using the soul of that man. 

That is, the power of the high ranking demon that long supported the demon world in the background. 

The magic of the cardinal sin Belphegor. Basara is controlling and amplifying the power of the highest reigning power of the demon world type. 

To turn over the magic that is already there and further amplify it, then opening it fixed to anti gravity – With that, in all nature of things it’s difficult to pull, a snapping power. 

Creating a space that should be said as infinite, it holds a power that expands to all that, it is the exact opposite of Banishing Shift which deletes everything to the zero dimension. 

It is << Banyuusekiryoku >>. In short it is complete defense against all physical and magic attack.[4] 

With that he’s able to repel Celis’ attack – but it didn’t delete the effect. As such, Mio, the others, the elders who are outside presently that were affected by the sight-related magic, should not be able to see how Basara is now. As such, this is his chance to use his utmost power. Then, the moment is coming up. 

“—” 

The Banyuusekiryoku he used for defense earlier, Toujou Basara will use it to attack. 

Celis Reidhart’s Georgius is currently using absolute zone. 

Basara is away from that right now, and knows the exact moment to make his decisive strike. Further, if she knew Basara had escaped her attack, he could turn it around on her in an instant. 

And then – Celis could feel Basara planning to attack her. 

“Eh—” 

But then, right after she let out a surprised noise, when she realized it, Basara was already right in front of her. The magic blade of Georgius in her hand was cut off as a result of that, the magic she’s using to fly was rendered as negated, and she inevitably began falling from the sky. 

“–?!” 

When she gulped down, Basara’s already made her drop down from the sky. 

However, even just a little the blade of Georgius remained – hence “Kuh…!” 

At once, Celis recovered her concentration. She put all her power into the element wind, creating wind that helped carry her to the ground, but still, Celis fell on both her thighs to the ground. Due to the large amount of magic used for the meteorite and absolute defense, then to muster in magic into the wind to help her land, her magical and spiritual power is significantly depleted. 

And then – There in front of her, Basara stood. 

He did not descend after Celis. He was there before Celis even landed. 

Surely he had been there before Celis even prepared her wind. 

It was an unbelievable – no, it was an unthinkable speed. 

…Most likely. 

The power which he used to attack Celis, it too gave his own body and heels godly speed – 

one that exceeded the sound wave barrier without making waves, much like scattering it. She could guess that much of a theory, and think of it as such. 

However it was the fastest – a speed that cannot be done by humans, and is in the realm of gods, surely? 

Up till now Celis had never thought of Basara as a threat. 

The one who thinks that is the upper echelons of the << Vatican>> and <<Village >>. 

To Celis, Basara had always been a childhood friend of hers in Japan, and even as he was assigned an S-class assignment, that did not change for her. 

However, who could stop such an overwhelming power – with that thought, Celis felt something akin to fear. Yet, “Hey… Celis, do you still want to go on?” 

Basara’s voice spoke softly, tainted with the colors of hesitation – Once you see it, you can see the reddening of his cheeks as he averted his gaze away from Celis. 

“? Why are you looking awa—” 

As she said that, Celis grasped her own condition. The clothes she wore were torn apart, and her white skin was mostly exposed. 

“…Kyaaaaa, when did this happen..?” 

With a screech, Celis covered her chest and her precious place, and at that, “Umm… It was scattered about around the time you fell down from the sky using your wind, I think” 

Basara said awkwardly. 

While their physical bodies are preserved within the barrier, their clothes are not within that limit. 

And then, to be able to overtake the strength of the Vatican’s holy knight battle armor, Basara must’ve overwhelmed it earlier with great speed and rendered it useless – And the moment it reached its limit, was likely the last bit before she landed with the wind. 

In short – Her clothes came flying off right in front of Basara’s eyes. 

To Celis, who was obviously embarrassed with a good reason “…In any case, if it’s okay please wear this first” 

Basara stripped off his own top and passed it to her, then he turned around facing away from her. 

He left his back uncovered. Hence, 

“–” 

Celis thought. When Basara asked her if she’d still want to continue earlier she did not give an answer, and hence the battle still continued. If she used all her remaining strength she would be able to recall Georgius again – she could attack his back right here. Yet, “…Haaah” 

Celis Reidhart sighed, and with it came a bitter smile. 

For Basara who could not be taken with Georgius to be taken with her naked body… Somehow it makes her feel relieved. Indeed, Basara’s strength may be fearsome. However, stopping him probably did not require some sort of greater power. 

– To begin with, that tragedy happened when Basara’s power ran berserk while he wanted to protect Yuki. 

Basara is kind – Hence, that horrible tragedy happened. Hence, what’s needed is not a power that’s greater than him, but a way for what’s precious to him to be protected. In that the condition suggested by the demons, that might be the best after all . 

Although the feeling of not being able to forgive the village for making the decision to expel Basara without consulting the others still burns within Celis, …I too, am trapped by the past aren’t I? 

To protect what’s important to him, Basara had won against Celis. 

While holding onto the past, Basara is moving forward – holding on to the kindness that remained unchanged from that time. 

“I acknowledge it… I have lost” 

Saying that – Celis Reinhardt lowered the curtain on this fight.