Campione 03 Read online

  Prologue

  Summer vacations.

  The extended break that countless high schoolers longed for.

  For this month and a half, some went out to play and have fun, others engaged in sports, still others toiled with sweat and devoted their passions to work, love, supplementary lessons, or doujinshi conventions.

  But now, to Kusanagi Godou, his summer vacation was synonymous with disaster.

  "—Hoho. Did you hear that, Godou? You'll be traveling together with me for the summer vacation. This is a foregone decision and your highest priority, so you'd better accept it... I won't take no for an answer."

  The blond-haired girl dressed in red had already declared this half a month ago.

  The smile floating on her face was so magnificent, and yet so evil.

  To his knowledge, Godou did not know another girl apart from Erica Blandelli who could smile this way. Possessing outstanding beauty and intelligence, crafty ingenuity, and genius talent in swords and magic, plus total confidence in these areas — a noble smile that concentrated all these qualities together.

  Godou was a healthy sixteen-year-old high school student.

  To be asked to travel together with such a beautiful girl as Erica, he was very happy, no doubt about it.

  Very happy, but there was a catch.

  He definitely could not agree with her wishes as promptly as this. If he did, it would end up being a progression of travel—wedding—pregnancy—child-rearing, and by the latter half of his twenties, the majority of his life would be semi-automatically decided just like that—something as scary as that could happen.

  “Young man, what you are trying to say is that, the reason you are not willing to accept Erica’s proposal is because... like a lover you have known for six years, to have someone who shares the same personality and preferences as your girlfriend, to share a warm and fuzzy relationship, it makes you feel assured and comfortable, yet lacks a certain excitement.”

  Godou naturally recalled the words of the older friend who lived in that oh so nostalgic Sardinia.

  “Then one fine day that girlfriend says ‘hey, we have been together for quite a while now. How about we go and visit your parents next time.’ At that time, that boy thought ‘Even if you say that, I still want to remain a free man, even if it is for a while longer,’ and such. Thus he uses an ‘ok, maybe next time’ excuse as an answer. Just like how you are now.”

  “I have not even known Erica for six months, your analogy is completely off!”

  “Ah ha ha, doesn’t that make the analogy even better? A milestone that usually happens after at least five years into a relationship has already occurred in the short time that you two have known each other. It's natural for you to get cold feet.”

  Even though Godou did not agree with such a tactless description, deep in his heart he concurred completely.

  Thinking carefully, he did not have any reason to reject Erica.

  Even without mentioning her beauty and ability, there existed a wonderful sense of unspoken understanding between the two of them.

  Other than a massive difference in values, there was no other critical flaw. Most importantly there were her displays of affection—passionately, verbally, through her attitudes and behaviors.

  (...Even if it was just a verbal marriage proposal, from that moment onwards, my life would have been deemed a [called game][1]! Even a playoff would be impossible.)

  However, there was one point on which Godou was certain.

  Erica Blandelli's decisiveness, planning ability and initiative were second to none.

  If she put her mind to it, even the impossible could become possible in most cases. On the same note, she could even make Godou think that a marriage might not be so bad after all, that was the kind of attraction she held.

  Thus, Godou felt that he must never ever lower his guard and resist with all his might when he is around her.

  So for this summer, he believed that he should be fine if he stayed out of her clutches.

  With all that in mind, Godou's final conclusion was to flee.

  He could never win in physical strength, much less in terms of wit and resourcefulness. The best self-defense strategy was to not go directly against Erica, so what about the escape routes and potential hiding places?

  In order to make sure there were enough funds to escape, he had no choice but to get himself hired by familiar acquaintances for jobs every day.

  At the same time, escape plans must be made.

  But where to escape to? It would be best if it was a place where she couldn't do as she pleased.

  Did such a place even exist on earth...

  As summer vacation drew near, Godou became more and more lost in this thought.

  "Then, Godou-san... The thing you said before, what happened next?"

  With only one week left till vacation, Godou was questioned about this.

  It was after class at the upperclassmen block of Jounan Academy.

  In an empty classroom corner, the one he was facing was Mariya Yuri, the school idol renowned for her beauty, charm and delicacy.

  ...Thinking back carefully, it was difficult to believe he once did such a daring thing to this lady.

  Godou tried desperately to act normal. If he became too aware of the past, he would be too embarrassed to look her in the face.

  "Haha, the thing about running away from Erica? Aye, even though I have made all sorts of preparations, there is still no place for me to escape to. To be honest, it's really troubling."

  "Is that so..."

  Yuri nodded and muttered beside him.

  Somehow, it felt like she was deliberately avoiding looking Godou straight in the face.

  As expected, that incident has become a burden for her.

  The Hime-Miko of Musashino — the sacred miko responsible for protecting the Kanto region with their spirit powers.

  Amongst them, Yuri possessed outstanding powers of spirit vision. But due to circumstance, to think that she did that with Godou... How he wished he could find a hole to hide in.

  “About, about that Mariya-san, how should I say this, that—”

  “G-Godou-san, that thing, erm, about that thing—”

  Speaking together coincidentally at the same time just made the situation more awkward to both parties.

  "...If you have something to say, don’t mind me and please go ahead."

  "No, no, there is no such thing. You should speak first, Godou-san."

  While they continued to allow each other to talk first, their faces inevitably met.

  At that moment, Godou realized that his face was as red as an apple. Yuri was no different, turning red due to embarrassment.

  ...Erica Blandelli, he had never met anyone who understands him more than her.

  Having played baseball for so long, Godou had partnered as a catcher with many people before.

  But nobody had ever been 'as one' with him as her, one of the opposite sex.

  Having only known each other for just four months, they understood each other on a heart to heart level, whereby with just a single glance, they were able to communicate what the other was thinking perfectly.

  But now, the girl in front of him, Mariya Yuri, was equally in tune.

  The way this girl spoke, thought and acted under numerous circumstances, matched him to an uncanny degree.

  Even for someone who admitted he was not skilled in handling girls, Godou clearly noticed recently.

  Being with Yuri was never unpleasant.

  Godou could spend a day with her without saying anything, and he still would not feel uncomfortable around her.

  Even without explanation, Godou could understand. Her harsh and severe words were an expression of her concern. Mariya Yuri w
as the kindest and most gentle person that Kusanagi Godou knew. Thus he believed that he would receive retribution if he did not express his gratitude to her.

  "Umm... Sorry Mariya. I've... always caused you so much trouble."

  "W-What are you saying? Not once have I felt that you have caused me trouble, so you should stop blaming yourself. Pull yourself together."

  Said a red-faced Yuri, making Godou unable to do anything but laugh awkwardly.

  She had most likely said this to help him get his act together, guess like he had no choice but to accept it.

  “Haha, I got it. I will work hard... what was it that Mariya wanted to say just now again?”

  “Ah, right... About that, Godou-san, about your earlier problem of finding a place to hide... If you do not mind, how about leaving it to me?”

  Being suddenly told about this, Godou was shocked and could only stare at the embarrassed Yuri.

  The Hime-Miko—a true 'hime'[2], having a pitiable yet elegant stature, abruptly brought up such a thing.

  “Actually, it was Amakasu-san from the History Compilation Committee who will be preparing it for you. He seemed to sincerely wish to help Godou-san...”

  The History Compilation Committee.

  The organization whose goal was to hide from the general public all sorts of bizarre incidents—magic, spells, supernatural phenomena, gods, and other supernatural existences.

  When he heard the name of the History Compilation Committee member, Godou couldn’t help but think.

  Can I trust such an organization which I haven’t even got the slightest clue of? Can I count on them?

  “Of course, when we reach there I would act as your tour guide. So even if you are on a foreign land, you will not feel any inconveniences. I will take good care of you—you better not take this wrongly, this is a request from the committee, it cannot be helped...”

  “Oh, even though it is great, but this time, I think I will pass.”

  “This is definitely not because I want to go on a trip with you that I requested for this—eh? This time? Pass...?”

  Seeing Yuri in shock, Godou replied.

  “Ah, even though you have done so much for me, but sorry, I have to say no this time.”

  “H-How can this be! But Godou-san, didn’t you seem like you were in so much trouble just now!?”

  Though Godou was grateful for her honest offer, he still had to reject her.

  “No, though I asked for your help, I don't think I can accept the assistance of civil servants for a matter like this. That is what I think, I am very sorry.”

  If it had been Yuri’s personal offer, he would have gratefully accepted. But if the name of such an unknown and suspicious organization was involved, it would be best to think twice before agreeing.

  Campione. The name of a devil king who had usurped a god’s authorities. A warrior both human and superhuman.

  Regrettably, Godou now belonged amongst the ranks of these existences beyond common reasoning. If he sought help from others, he must think carefully and be wary of them. No matter how much Kusanagi Godou hated it, he was now the [King] who possessed great influence over the world of magic and wizardry.

  For example, Erica was a mage from the magic association Copper Black Cross.

  Godou would obediently accept her assistance — as well as the association behind her. This was mostly because the leader of the organization, Erica's uncle, was a well-known man.

  The noble knight of knights. The red and black living legend.

  The only person that Erica, the beauty with her overweening pride, respected and looked up to.

  Godou only met him once, but once was more than enough for Godou to foster the same respect for him. If anyone in this world fully embodied the ideals of chivalry, it had to be him.

  The strong sense of feeling when they shook hands to bid farewell was still vivid in Godou's mind.

  “...Godou-san, you look happy for some reason.”

  Yuri spoke suddenly.

  With suspicious eyes, she stared at Godou with a tinge of resentment for some reason.

  “Looking into the distance, as if remembering someone you really missed very much—”

  “Ah, sorry, I suddenly remembered an old acquaintance.”

  Responding without thought, Godou was thinking of one point.

  If he, Paolo Blandelli, knew that Erica was trying to seduce Godou, he might just come up with a plan to educate that niece of his into a proper lady.

  But Godou did not know how to contact him personally.

  No, wait a minute, didn't he have a friend who knew these things...!

  Godou couldn’t help but get excited.

  Even if the chances were slim, it was still worth a try, all prospects must be explored!

  “I suddenly thought of urgent matters to attend to so I will be leaving first. Anyway, thanks for everything.”

  “Ah, Godou-san!? Just who did you recall, I wish to know—”

  In order to reach home quickly, Godou started to run.

  What was it that Yuri tried to say to me just now? I guess I will just ask her again the next time we meet.

  Two nights later, Godou was checking for the answer he had waited so eagerly for.

  Firing up his mother’s old notebook computer to open his email, the long awaited reply finally came.

  The sender’s name was Zola. The name of the mage Godou had come to know when he was at Sardinia.

  “How is it?... I hope it is a good reply!”

  Godou continued to pray as he opened the email.

  'It's been a while, young man. I have been hearing a lot about your many deeds. Your name as a devil king sure is spreading far and wide. It makes me proud to know I played a part in your birth.'

  Written in Japanese with full mastery of kanji, she opened with such an outrageous greeting.

  'Next, about your request on how to contact Paolo Blandelli personally, I’m sorry but I do not know. After all, he is the leader of a famous group and the highest ranked Templar Knight. On the other hand, I'm just an old mage in the countryside. How could I possibly know personal channels of communication?'

  At this point, Godou started to feel dejected, but continued to read on.

  'But, I understand your dilemma and am not so cold-hearted as to just ignore it. Thus, this summer I welcome you to my humble abode here in Sardinia. After all, for a mage of Erica Blandelli's level, she would find you almost immediately no matter where you hide if she was to become serious. The only way to escape from her is with the help of an excellent mage, and I am willing to help you on this part.'

  Right, it was just as she had said, this was the problem troubling Godou, and he couldn’t help but nod in agreement.

  'As for plane tickets and the like, just leave everything to me. You're welcome. Consider it compensation for bringing you into this kind of trouble, into this world of cause and effect. I look forward to seeing you after our last meeting a few months ago.'

  Signing off her email with 'Your Friend.'

  "...How superficial of me. I thought she was just a meddlesome and hopeless fellow, but I never expected her to be so considerate."

  Like watching a delinquent feed a stray cat — Godou felt touched as if witnessing such a scene. He felt ashamed of his ignorance.

  Friends are still the best! He felt deeply moved and thanked her from the heart.

  —Everything that happened after that went smoothly.

  Informing his grandfather and mother he was going on vacation alone, he made a deal with his grandfather to keep things secret, and discreetly made preparations without his sister Shizuka knowing, finally confirming the duration of his stay in Sardinia.

  Then, in latter half of July, it was the day before the closing ceremony.

  In contrast to Erica who was recently in a happy mood, Godou had been agreeing to the 'pre-marital trip' in a displeased and uncaring manner.

  His heart burned with fighting spirit as if playing a role in a r
eversal drama, but he did not show any outward signs.

  The plan was set in motion, calmly and silently.

  This was the path to victory. Even if it was against his nature to harbor secrets, it was all needed for such a situation.

  ...That day, after school, Yuri said to Godou:

  “Godou-san, I have something to say to you, could you come with me for a while.”

  Facing the sudden cold words from Yuri while following her to a deserted corner of the school, Godou felt a sense of unknown nervousness. As if something inauspicious was about to happen, he had a bad feeling.

  “...I will ask directly, Godou-san, are you going anywhere this summer?”

  Godou could not tell if Mariya Yuri didn't know how the world worked or just couldn’t read the mood.

  Even though she was very smart and thought things through deeply, she was just a sheltered high class lady.

  Thus she was unable to read the atmosphere. But likely due to her strong natural instincts, which were sometimes very sharp, she was still able to guess at situations without doing anything beforehand.

  It was the same this time.

  “...If so, where are you going?”

  “Even if you ask me, it is a secret, is that ok?”

  Yuri was speaking as a result of sensing rather than reasoning.

  There was no point in acting ignorant in front of her, Godou lowered his head as a gesture of pleading.

  Even his family members didn’t know where he was going... Thinking back, the grandfather and mother who allowed him to secretly plan this trip, were really quite awesome in a certain sense.

  “Of course it is not ok! Without me around... No, without anyone else around, what indecent acts are you planning to do!? If you do not tell me the details, I will not let you go!”

  Her words carried a sense of family greater than even his own.

  Yuri’s facial expression suddenly changed; she realized she had uttered rather strange concerns.

  “S-So it is like this, even though I have never thought it would really happen, it is like this right...? Like going on vacation with just that woman whom you are slightly closer to... Are you planning that and making it happen?”

  Why does she have such a thought? Godou was puzzled by this.