I don’t feel like losing
It was a close call. A ray of hope shone in the last moment.
The humid and hot night jungle was naturally fortified with magical beasts, and reaching the boss Benante was a hard task in itself.
But their current situation was a massive improvement compared to before.
“…. Haa–.. Haa–…”
Niina was recieving orders continuously from Ikeno, analyzing them and putting them into action.
< Are you listening? Niina. >
< Ah, yes.. Sorry. Please continue >
Hearing his panting voice, Ikeno stopped and asked him in a harsh tone.
‘This Ikeno guy is no joke.. Not only does he have the talent, but also the looks”
Niina had to snap himself out of his thoughts.
Not only was Ikeno relaying orders, he was in the middle of combat too.
Niina could see the battle occurring in the night skies.
The aerial squadron was still engaging the wyverns, cutting and pushing through them. No doubt Ikeno was the one leading the charge.
Ikeno was leading the aerial squad all the while staging the other ground squad’s movements while in combat.
Sounds of slashing, gun fire and wyvern screams could be heard periodically as Ikeno gave his orders to Niina.
Frighteningly, Ikeno was still able to keep his cool despite engaging in multiple fronts. The breaks in relaying his orders were at most a second. No doubt it was spent in dealing with a wyvern.
‘Then..’
Niina thought to himself,
‘.. Then I should also do what I can’
< We will continue to break through the enemy’s center and land near the center of the island. We will then rendezvous with the squads deployed in the west of the island and continue pushing towards point A54 >
There were no hints of hesitation in Ikeno’s voice.
< Point A? But there’s a river there.. Ah, understood. Then the Santäna will be on stand by there then >
Half a year ago, when the residents of Okinawa were held hostage by the half merman Santäna, their most useful and outstanding trait could be realized while they were underwater.
If they can utilize this strong point and lead the enemy to a corner, no doubt they could crush their enemies thoroughly.
The problem lied with ‘how’ they were going to corner them towards the river, but with the aerial squadron linking up with the western forces, their combat prowess would also rise up.
Ikeno’s combat prowess was also a league on its own, but they still needed a way to properly execute the plan.
< Haa.. compared to your ‘Senpai’, you sure do have the brains.. >
< Ah, thanks. But what about the eastern forces? >
As soon as Niina sent out the necessary info to both the western forces and the Santäna, he proceeded to address the next problem.
< Send everyone deployed in the center to the eastern side. They should be able to hold on then.. All they need to do is suppress them for a few minutes and buy enough time. We will breakthrough the enemy’s lines from the west >
< Ha? Eh? W-wait, are you serious?! >
He doubted his ears for a bit. For a second, he thought Ikeno’s plan was ingenious.(1)
The eastern side would amass a force equal with those of their enemies deployed on the eastern front, all the while the western side would use the waterbed to pincer and annihilate.
This was built on the hopes that they could somehow suppress Benante and make a breakthrough somewhere and reach the enemy fortress. As the enemy forces were busy dealing with the eastern front, they wouldn’t have enough to send reinforcements towards the western side.
But for this plan to proceed, there was a flaw to Ikeno’s plans.
For the eastern force to stand toe to toe with their enemy. Both he and Tsurugi had to leave the center, as well as all squads present would diverted to the east.
‘Then there’s no point doing it!’
< W-wait a moment Ikeno-san! What about us? If we divert the central force to the east , the enemies in the center will just follow us! We will then end up with the same situation! >
Niina and Tsurugi were in the midpoint of both the eastern and western forces. They couldn’t leave this place, as if they left, the enemy’s center would have no one facing them.
Ikeno’s next words went beyond Niina’s expectations.
< Now who said that ‘everyone’ would leave for the east? Both of you stay there. You and Gardner >
< Haa?! Wh-.. are you telling us to handle all the enemies that come our way by ourselves?! >
This was simply outrageous. No matter how strong Tsurugi F. Gardner may be, he was no match against a horde of magic beasts.
There were reports of 12 magical beasts heading their way, and no doubt more would come.
< That would impossible to do! >
< I’ll say this ahead, it wasn’t me that said you both would be fine there.. that’s all orders for now >
As Niina stood there dumbfounded, Ikeno nonetheless close the connection.
‘Are you serious..’
But this order didn’t come from Ikeno, then who else?
It was definitely him. Then,
Niina navigated through his terminal, coordinating and relaying Ikeno’s plan into action. He then saw Tsurugi a couple distance away.
Tsurugi was also recieving orders through his headset. No doubt he was talking with ‘him’
“.. Understood..”
In a calm and low mannered tone, he said ‘those’ words.
In the entire world, there was only one man he would reply that way to
Niina rushed towards Tsurugi,
“Tsurugi-san, we’re to remain behind, is what I got but,”
Niina spoke in a surprised tone.
Tsurugi, as if to affirm him, lit up a cigarette and took a good whiff.
“This is crazy..”
Yes, it’s crazy. But it always had been.
“Fuu~, indeed.”
Whether he agreed or was impartial, Tsurugi didn’t show it in his face.
“It looks like you’re done giving orders to the squads”
“Well, I guess there’s no choice.. might as well give them a good one”
Orders had already been sent out. The squad that were with them a few moments ago were already moving towards their designated area.
Only Niina and Tsurugi were left.
“I guess it’s our time to shine”
Setting his sights at the distant rain forest, they heard growls within, and a ray of light shone from the beasts’ eyes.
“Haaa…”
“Stand down Niina”
‘Ha?’
As if to ask Tsurugi the meaning behind his words, their eyes met. He understood what he meant with the gleam on his eyes.
“You’re going to transform.. aren’t you?”
The person he was on line back then must have been his Senpai. Now that he thought about it, his senpai said he would be moving secretly and unassisted from now on. He must have then given the permission for Tsurugi to transform.
From that alone, he understood how perilous their current situation was.
“Got it”
There were no hints of hesitation in Tsurugi ‘s eyes. All he saw was a man with determination and pride.
Looking at him, Niina silently gulped.
4 months ago, Tsurugi undertook the surgery to integrate the [Silhouette Series] unto his body. With Maki suggesting, and Neito actualizing the idea, they were able to use the individual’s [Will] and condense it into a raw form of energy(2). This was entirely a new form of concept to Metallica.
The [Silhouette Series] progenitor prototype, was Komori Neito’s [Evil Silhouette]. The generic [Silhouette Series] being used on modified humans had weakened conversion rate, resulting in a far weaker enhancement.
But why?
Subsequent tests have revealed that raw intake of such energy was deemed too dangerous. There had been cases of rampaging subjects, as well as subjects that lost themselves to the energy, turning into mindless beasts that acted on instinct. Some cases also showed that if the physical container couldn’t handle the energy, they would burst from within, leaving a gory mess. With that in mind, it was deemed necessary to lower the energy intake.
It could be said that taking the operation now would be far more safer than when the idea was first introduced. The [Silhouette Series] grew with their owners, so devices were in place to accommodate that growth via increased energy intake.
With a high amount of [Will], and the energy taken from the [Beetle Crystal] to offset the counteractions, Neito was able to exit the prototype phase and fully integrated all of the energy into his being.
Then what about the second version of the [Silhouette Series]? The so called ‘test subject’ named Tsurugi?
He wasn’t operated on the basis of low output – low risk balance.
Similar to the prototype, but without the [Beetle Crystal] to offset the imbalances. He was operated on with high chances of conversion rate.(3)
Even the head researcher, Maki opposed to it, but through the individual’s strong wishes and support from Neito, they proceeded with the surgery.
Tsurugi transforming would only bring anyone near him into danger.
“Are you sure you’ll be alright Tsurugi-san?”
Remembering Tsurugi’s enhancement operation, Niina wanted to be sure. Just in case.. but he already knew what his answer would be.
“Of course. If you’re that concerned, then get out of here”
There was a chance the he would go on a rampage if he transformed. If the transformed Tsurugi would set his eyes upon Niina, there would be nothing left of him but a meat pulp.
“… I guess you’re right.. But I’ll be sticking close by to see your live action scenes play out. Also Maki-san also told me that even if it’s ‘that’ Tsurugi-san, you won’t last for more than five minutes with that transformation”
As they were conversing, the magical beast were already in approaching them. A large carnivorous form and a black body, their low growls were heard as they barred their sharp fangs(4) and claws towards them
“Five minutes..? Fuu~”
Tsurugi laughed at his nihilism and he walked forward. He was approaching the magic beasts steadily.
“I will cut down those who stand in my way”
Unsheathing his Katana, he stabbed it towards the ground.
Gripping the hilt tightly, he looked straight and roused his spirit. With a ferocious tone and a heavy voice, he yelled
“Trans…form!!”
A blast emanated from him, and a light lit up the surrounding thicket. Flames rose up and,
“Five minutes.. is plentiful enough”
With the light and flames at its center, something came out.
A body that was a mix between human and wolf, an armor with a fang as its insignia, and flames surrounding his body.
The Katana that he always carried with him, turned into a Great Sword. The sword emanated heat from within, distorting the air around it.
※※
A few black beasts stood before him. Before long they were charging at him
Tsurugi spent no time checking his transformed self.
It is said that the [Silhouette Series] would often embody the individual’s [Will] when transforming.
His master, Komori Neito often pondered on that. “Eh? Then I’m a demon inside?”
‘I guess it was true Boss..’
The Sword Wolf Spadalfo(5)
That was his nickname before he joined Metallica. In other words, back when he was still with the Italian Mafia
Being picked up from petty turf wars to serve under his master which he recognized as ‘truly evil’ who was against the world, no matter what he did, he still couldn’t escape his nickname.
“How does [Fanged Silhouette] sound? I think it’s cool taking into account Tsurugi-san’s appearance”
He could hear a light and easy going voice behind him. There was a risk of him going berserk when he transformed, not differentiating friend from foe, but this man, Niina, still sounded like his usual self.
The guy had nerves of his own. At first he thought of him as a coward, yet now he would leave his back to this man.
“[Fanged Silhouette]… Not bad.. then. Haa-!”
His newly acquired strength, [Fanged Silhouette] certainly took a toll on him. He wanted to destroy everything. His impulses were trying to overcome his will.
But he had far more important things he needed to do than succumb to his impulses. His sword was meant to cut a path. For the man who would change the world to walk straight without obstruction, he needed to swing his sword. This was the role given to him.
‘For my [Will] to be tainted and corrupted..’
‘That will never happen’
Tsurugi kicked off the ground, charging head on to the magic beasts.
“Gaaaaaah–!!”
In response to the approaching [Fanged Silhouette], the magical beast brandished they claw towards it.
“Fn-!”
The magic beasts were never able to complete their actions.
Faster than them, the [Fanged Silhouette]’s great sword bisected the beasts in half, burning each half into ashes as flames raged on.
“Seiyah-!”
The [Fanged Silhouette]’s attacks never stopped. As a gorilla like magic beasts appeared, the [Fanged Silhouette] kicked it to disrupt its balance, then aimed for its ankles. Unable to move, he pierced his great sword onto it and drove the sword to the ground.
“Burn”
With those words, the sword burst into flames, burning and leaving the ape like body to ashes.
“Kiyiiiiii–!!”
Loud shrieks sounded all over as a boar like magic beast rushed at him.
“Fu-…”
The [Fanged Silhouette] took it head it head on, grabbing it and using its momentum spherically to throw it away
Matching the time it landed on the ground, Tsurugi drew a slash towards it, ending it’s miserable life in a flash.
“That makes three.. which bastard is next?”
It was quiet, but a strong killing intent could be felt. For the shaman controlling the beast to feel it, he had to release a stronger killing intent.
“G-gyiiiii-!!”
One magic beast was trying to get away. It created distance, and hid behind a log.
“…”
The [Fanged Silhouette] did not stop walking towards it. He slowly walked up to the hiding magical beast and,
“Haa–!!”
He split the log in half, along with the magical beast and set it aflame.
“Bingo! You were right on the spot!”
Behind him, he could hear Niina cheering.
“Hm? What happened Niina?”
“Ah, yeah. Those shaman bastards were hiding themselves as they were controlling those magic beasts. After that battle, I could generally pinpoint their location using an angle of inference as well as distance.. I already sent out a small drone to scout the area”
Niina made it sound easy, but it would no doubt be hard to do if it was anyone else.
“It was hard pin pointing them before since they constantly switched positions, but with the defeat of those four beasts, they shouldn’t be able to move that much due to damage feedback.. Hm, I guess I’ll be taking a leave for a while”
Saying those words, Niina put his foot up on his [Sonic Board]
That board was made with Crimson’s technology, a simple version of [Sonic Rollers], but Niina had talent in using it. Even if it couldn’t rival Sonic Youth, it would pose no problem in handling the shamans.
“Then, in order for them to not bother you, I’ll handle them here properly”
“I’m counting on ya”
Niina accelerated, heading up against the cliff.
“Fu–…”
Tsurugi slaughtered one more beast and laughed.
Thinking about the five minute limit, if he could deal with the magic beasts within then, then Niina would have easier time dealing with the shamans.
He never spoke it out loud but he was glad.
The fact that Niina didn’t run when he transformed, and also the fact that he was willing to confront the shamans on his own.
‘That guy has also grown quite strong. That easygoing bastard that didn’t know manners, was now reliable. He is an idiot, but still very sharp’
Tsurugi F. Gardner recognized the newbie that recently entered.
He only had 3 minutes left till he reached his limit. If Niina were in his shoes, he wouldn’t lose at all. With Ikeno as their strategists, their chances rose up. Their plan was sound, and they were able to match the enemy’s forces.
On top of that, his Boss was also here.
Neito had an idea of his own. He landed in a different area secretly and acted solo.
“This battle… I don’t feel like losing”
He gripped his sword tightly as flames surrounded it. Making his resolve, he jumped towards the group of magic beasts
※※
Notes:
1. I’m assuming Ikeno is trying to prevent defeat in detail. To clarify the situation, they are currently fighting on three fronts. East, Center, and West. Four if you count the air battle. If they lose even a single front, everything would collapse, but merging two fronts into one would temporarily solve that problem.
2. Changed [Spirit] into [Will] as it is more appropriate. Also, it’s been 10~20 chapters overdue since the author introduced the Silhouette series on how they work. Then again, I might have just mistranslated. Will append if any
3. Conversation rate being the synchronization capacity. “How much one can embody one’s will” if you will.
4. Fangs and tusks basically have the same kanji 牙
5. 剣(Sword)狼(Wolf) Spadolfo. Not sure if there’s an italian word like “Spadolfo” but it must mean something. I could take a guess, but I don’t speak pizza
I guess it’ll be a chapter every 2 weeks? Might translate Fiance to the Duke’s Daughter in the meanwhile
I don’t feel like losing
It was a close call. A ray of hope shone in the last moment.
The humid and hot night jungle was naturally fortified with magical beasts, and reaching the boss Benante was a hard task in itself.
But their current situation was a massive improvement compared to before.
“…. Haa–.. Haa–…”
Niina was recieving orders continuously from Ikeno, analyzing them and putting them into action.
< Are you listening? Niina. >
< Ah, yes.. Sorry. Please continue >
Hearing his panting voice, Ikeno stopped and asked him in a harsh tone.
‘This Ikeno guy is no joke.. Not only does he have the talent, but also the looks”
Niina had to snap himself out of his thoughts.
Not only was Ikeno relaying orders, he was in the middle of combat too.
Niina could see the battle occurring in the night skies.
The aerial squadron was still engaging the wyverns, cutting and pushing through them. No doubt Ikeno was the one leading the charge.
Ikeno was leading the aerial squad all the while staging the other ground squad’s movements while in combat.
Sounds of slashing, gun fire and wyvern screams could be heard periodically as Ikeno gave his orders to Niina.
Frighteningly, Ikeno was still able to keep his cool despite engaging in multiple fronts. The breaks in relaying his orders were at most a second. No doubt it was spent in dealing with a wyvern.
‘Then..’
Niina thought to himself,
‘.. Then I should also do what I can’
< We will continue to break through the enemy’s center and land near the center of the island. We will then rendezvous with the squads deployed in the west of the island and continue pushing towards point A54 >
There were no hints of hesitation in Ikeno’s voice.
< Point A? But there’s a river there.. Ah, understood. Then the Santäna will be on stand by there then >
Half a year ago, when the residents of Okinawa were held hostage by the half merman Santäna, their most useful and outstanding trait could be realized while they were underwater.
If they can utilize this strong point and lead the enemy to a corner, no doubt they could crush their enemies thoroughly.
The problem lied with ‘how’ they were going to corner them towards the river, but with the aerial squadron linking up with the western forces, their combat prowess would also rise up.
Ikeno’s combat prowess was also a league on its own, but they still needed a way to properly execute the plan.
< Haa.. compared to your ‘Senpai’, you sure do have the brains.. >
< Ah, thanks. But what about the eastern forces? >
As soon as Niina sent out the necessary info to both the western forces and the Santäna, he proceeded to address the next problem.
< Send everyone deployed in the center to the eastern side. They should be able to hold on then.. All they need to do is suppress them for a few minutes and buy enough time. We will breakthrough the enemy’s lines from the west >
< Ha? Eh? W-wait, are you serious?! >
He doubted his ears for a bit. For a second, he thought Ikeno’s plan was ingenious.(1)
The eastern side would amass a force equal with those of their enemies deployed on the eastern front, all the while the western side would use the waterbed to pincer and annihilate.
This was built on the hopes that they could somehow suppress Benante and make a breakthrough somewhere and reach the enemy fortress. As the enemy forces were busy dealing with the eastern front, they wouldn’t have enough to send reinforcements towards the western side.
But for this plan to proceed, there was a flaw to Ikeno’s plans.
For the eastern force to stand toe to toe with their enemy. Both he and Tsurugi had to leave the center, as well as all squads present would diverted to the east.
‘Then there’s no point doing it!’
< W-wait a moment Ikeno-san! What about us? If we divert the central force to the east , the enemies in the center will just follow us! We will then end up with the same situation! >
Niina and Tsurugi were in the midpoint of both the eastern and western forces. They couldn’t leave this place, as if they left, the enemy’s center would have no one facing them.
Ikeno’s next words went beyond Niina’s expectations.
< Now who said that ‘everyone’ would leave for the east? Both of you stay there. You and Gardner >
< Haa?! Wh-.. are you telling us to handle all the enemies that come our way by ourselves?! >
This was simply outrageous. No matter how strong Tsurugi F. Gardner may be, he was no match against a horde of magic beasts.
There were reports of 12 magical beasts heading their way, and no doubt more would come.
< That would impossible to do! >
< I’ll say this ahead, it wasn’t me that said you both would be fine there.. that’s all orders for now >
As Niina stood there dumbfounded, Ikeno nonetheless close the connection.
‘Are you serious..’
But this order didn’t come from Ikeno, then who else?
It was definitely him. Then,
Niina navigated through his terminal, coordinating and relaying Ikeno’s plan into action. He then saw Tsurugi a couple distance away.
Tsurugi was also recieving orders through his headset. No doubt he was talking with ‘him’
“.. Understood..”
In a calm and low mannered tone, he said ‘those’ words.
In the entire world, there was only one man he would reply that way to
Niina rushed towards Tsurugi,
“Tsurugi-san, we’re to remain behind, is what I got but,”
Niina spoke in a surprised tone.
Tsurugi, as if to affirm him, lit up a cigarette and took a good whiff.
“This is crazy..”
Yes, it’s crazy. But it always had been.
“Fuu~, indeed.”
Whether he agreed or was impartial, Tsurugi didn’t show it in his face.
“It looks like you’re done giving orders to the squads”
“Well, I guess there’s no choice.. might as well give them a good one”
Orders had already been sent out. The squad that were with them a few moments ago were already moving towards their designated area.
Only Niina and Tsurugi were left.
“I guess it’s our time to shine”
Setting his sights at the distant rain forest, they heard growls within, and a ray of light shone from the beasts’ eyes.
“Haaa…”
“Stand down Niina”
‘Ha?’
As if to ask Tsurugi the meaning behind his words, their eyes met. He understood what he meant with the gleam on his eyes.
“You’re going to transform.. aren’t you?”
The person he was on line back then must have been his Senpai. Now that he thought about it, his senpai said he would be moving secretly and unassisted from now on. He must have then given the permission for Tsurugi to transform.
From that alone, he understood how perilous their current situation was.
“Got it”
There were no hints of hesitation in Tsurugi ‘s eyes. All he saw was a man with determination and pride.
Looking at him, Niina silently gulped.
4 months ago, Tsurugi undertook the surgery to integrate the [Silhouette Series] unto his body. With Maki suggesting, and Neito actualizing the idea, they were able to use the individual’s [Will] and condense it into a raw form of energy(2). This was entirely a new form of concept to Metallica.
The [Silhouette Series] progenitor prototype, was Komori Neito’s [Evil Silhouette]. The generic [Silhouette Series] being used on modified humans had weakened conversion rate, resulting in a far weaker enhancement.
But why?
Subsequent tests have revealed that raw intake of such energy was deemed too dangerous. There had been cases of rampaging subjects, as well as subjects that lost themselves to the energy, turning into mindless beasts that acted on instinct. Some cases also showed that if the physical container couldn’t handle the energy, they would burst from within, leaving a gory mess. With that in mind, it was deemed necessary to lower the energy intake.
It could be said that taking the operation now would be far more safer than when the idea was first introduced. The [Silhouette Series] grew with their owners, so devices were in place to accommodate that growth via increased energy intake.
With a high amount of [Will], and the energy taken from the [Beetle Crystal] to offset the counteractions, Neito was able to exit the prototype phase and fully integrated all of the energy into his being.
Then what about the second version of the [Silhouette Series]? The so called ‘test subject’ named Tsurugi?
He wasn’t operated on the basis of low output – low risk balance.
Similar to the prototype, but without the [Beetle Crystal] to offset the imbalances. He was operated on with high chances of conversion rate.(3)
Even the head researcher, Maki opposed to it, but through the individual’s strong wishes and support from Neito, they proceeded with the surgery.
Tsurugi transforming would only bring anyone near him into danger.
“Are you sure you’ll be alright Tsurugi-san?”
Remembering Tsurugi’s enhancement operation, Niina wanted to be sure. Just in case.. but he already knew what his answer would be.
“Of course. If you’re that concerned, then get out of here”
There was a chance the he would go on a rampage if he transformed. If the transformed Tsurugi would set his eyes upon Niina, there would be nothing left of him but a meat pulp.
“… I guess you’re right.. But I’ll be sticking close by to see your live action scenes play out. Also Maki-san also told me that even if it’s ‘that’ Tsurugi-san, you won’t last for more than five minutes with that transformation”
As they were conversing, the magical beast were already in approaching them. A large carnivorous form and a black body, their low growls were heard as they barred their sharp fangs(4) and claws towards them
“Five minutes..? Fuu~”
Tsurugi laughed at his nihilism and he walked forward. He was approaching the magic beasts steadily.
“I will cut down those who stand in my way”
Unsheathing his Katana, he stabbed it towards the ground.
Gripping the hilt tightly, he looked straight and roused his spirit. With a ferocious tone and a heavy voice, he yelled
“Trans…form!!”
A blast emanated from him, and a light lit up the surrounding thicket. Flames rose up and,
“Five minutes.. is plentiful enough”
With the light and flames at its center, something came out.
A body that was a mix between human and wolf, an armor with a fang as its insignia, and flames surrounding his body.
The Katana that he always carried with him, turned into a Great Sword. The sword emanated heat from within, distorting the air around it.
※※
A few black beasts stood before him. Before long they were charging at him
Tsurugi spent no time checking his transformed self.
It is said that the [Silhouette Series] would often embody the individual’s [Will] when transforming.
His master, Komori Neito often pondered on that. “Eh? Then I’m a demon inside?”
‘I guess it was true Boss..’
The Sword Wolf Spadalfo(5)
That was his nickname before he joined Metallica. In other words, back when he was still with the Italian Mafia
Being picked up from petty turf wars to serve under his master which he recognized as ‘truly evil’ who was against the world, no matter what he did, he still couldn’t escape his nickname.
“How does [Fanged Silhouette] sound? I think it’s cool taking into account Tsurugi-san’s appearance”
He could hear a light and easy going voice behind him. There was a risk of him going berserk when he transformed, not differentiating friend from foe, but this man, Niina, still sounded like his usual self.
The guy had nerves of his own. At first he thought of him as a coward, yet now he would leave his back to this man.
“[Fanged Silhouette]… Not bad.. then. Haa-!”
His newly acquired strength, [Fanged Silhouette] certainly took a toll on him. He wanted to destroy everything. His impulses were trying to overcome his will.
But he had far more important things he needed to do than succumb to his impulses. His sword was meant to cut a path. For the man who would change the world to walk straight without obstruction, he needed to swing his sword. This was the role given to him.
‘For my [Will] to be tainted and corrupted..’
‘That will never happen’
Tsurugi kicked off the ground, charging head on to the magic beasts.
“Gaaaaaah–!!”
In response to the approaching [Fanged Silhouette], the magical beast brandished they claw towards it.
“Fn-!”
The magic beasts were never able to complete their actions.
Faster than them, the [Fanged Silhouette]’s great sword bisected the beasts in half, burning each half into ashes as flames raged on.
“Seiyah-!”
The [Fanged Silhouette]’s attacks never stopped. As a gorilla like magic beasts appeared, the [Fanged Silhouette] kicked it to disrupt its balance, then aimed for its ankles. Unable to move, he pierced his great sword onto it and drove the sword to the ground.
“Burn”
With those words, the sword burst into flames, burning and leaving the ape like body to ashes.
“Kiyiiiiii–!!”
Loud shrieks sounded all over as a boar like magic beast rushed at him.
“Fu-…”
The [Fanged Silhouette] took it head it head on, grabbing it and using its momentum spherically to throw it away
Matching the time it landed on the ground, Tsurugi drew a slash towards it, ending it’s miserable life in a flash.
“That makes three.. which bastard is next?”
It was quiet, but a strong killing intent could be felt. For the shaman controlling the beast to feel it, he had to release a stronger killing intent.
“G-gyiiiii-!!”
One magic beast was trying to get away. It created distance, and hid behind a log.
“…”
The [Fanged Silhouette] did not stop walking towards it. He slowly walked up to the hiding magical beast and,
“Haa–!!”
He split the log in half, along with the magical beast and set it aflame.
“Bingo! You were right on the spot!”
Behind him, he could hear Niina cheering.
“Hm? What happened Niina?”
“Ah, yeah. Those shaman bastards were hiding themselves as they were controlling those magic beasts. After that battle, I could generally pinpoint their location using an angle of inference as well as distance.. I already sent out a small drone to scout the area”
Niina made it sound easy, but it would no doubt be hard to do if it was anyone else.
“It was hard pin pointing them before since they constantly switched positions, but with the defeat of those four beasts, they shouldn’t be able to move that much due to damage feedback.. Hm, I guess I’ll be taking a leave for a while”
Saying those words, Niina put his foot up on his [Sonic Board]
That board was made with Crimson’s technology, a simple version of [Sonic Rollers], but Niina had talent in using it. Even if it couldn’t rival Sonic Youth, it would pose no problem in handling the shamans.
“Then, in order for them to not bother you, I’ll handle them here properly”
“I’m counting on ya”
Niina accelerated, heading up against the cliff.
“Fu–…”
Tsurugi slaughtered one more beast and laughed.
Thinking about the five minute limit, if he could deal with the magic beasts within then, then Niina would have easier time dealing with the shamans.
He never spoke it out loud but he was glad.
The fact that Niina didn’t run when he transformed, and also the fact that he was willing to confront the shamans on his own.
‘That guy has also grown quite strong. That easygoing bastard that didn’t know manners, was now reliable. He is an idiot, but still very sharp’
Tsurugi F. Gardner recognized the newbie that recently entered.
He only had 3 minutes left till he reached his limit. If Niina were in his shoes, he wouldn’t lose at all. With Ikeno as their strategists, their chances rose up. Their plan was sound, and they were able to match the enemy’s forces.
On top of that, his Boss was also here.
Neito had an idea of his own. He landed in a different area secretly and acted solo.
“This battle… I don’t feel like losing”
He gripped his sword tightly as flames surrounded it. Making his resolve, he jumped towards the group of magic beasts
※※
Notes:
1. I’m assuming Ikeno is trying to prevent defeat in detail. To clarify the situation, they are currently fighting on three fronts. East, Center, and West. Four if you count the air battle. If they lose even a single front, everything would collapse, but merging two fronts into one would temporarily solve that problem.
2. Changed [Spirit] into [Will] as it is more appropriate. Also, it’s been 10~20 chapters overdue since the author introduced the Silhouette series on how they work. Then again, I might have just mistranslated. Will append if any
3. Conversation rate being the synchronization capacity. “How much one can embody one’s will” if you will.
4. Fangs and tusks basically have the same kanji 牙
5. 剣(Sword)狼(Wolf) Spadolfo. Not sure if there’s an italian word like “Spadolfo” but it must mean something. I could take a guess, but I don’t speak pizza
I guess it’ll be a chapter every 2 weeks? Might translate Fiance to the Duke’s Daughter in the meanwhile
