Duel / Princess and Diva / Dual Act

One hour remaining to start the duel, Hayato was in the reception room of the palace.

He was in the room that was brought yesterday for the first time. There are two reasons about why Hayato is here. One of them is to wait for Kilfelthar and Claudia who went to pick up Sakura who was coming to Gudenburg using the high speed train and the other to wait for Emilia who had gone to change clothes. Emilia had been wearing the uniform of Little Garden during the morning, but since today was the duel, she was asked by Kate to change clothes, since there would be many high-ranking officers who would be present, including King Gra.n.a.ld. Of course Emilia was reluctant to change her clothes like yesterday, and although she put up resistance, she finally had to do it against her will. He had separated from Emilia for about fifteen minutes.

The moment for the duel was approaching minute by minute.

(Sakura hasn't contacted me, will she be really ok?)

While anxiety dominated him, *TON* *TON*, the door made that sound.

– Hayato-sama, we have already finished the preparations. Hime-sama is already waiting for you in the vehicle.

It’s Kate’s voice.

He opened the door and she entered the room. Hayato got up from the couch together with the bag he held in his hand. What was inside is his Variable Suit. He was told that he should take it when he left Little Garden, since it can't be predicted when and where he has to fight against the Savage.

When he got out from the corridor and left the palace, there was a vehicle exclusively for the royal family, the same one he used yesterday.

– Should I store your luggage?

Kate stops walking right in front of the vehicle and asks him. It was to know whether or not to place the bag in the trunk of the car.

– I’ll take it with me inside, so I’ll do it.

This is the situation. It is not known what can happen.

It would be a problem if it were to damage even the Variable Suit, which is why it is better to keep it by his side.

That was Hayato’s decision.

– As you say. Now, get in please.

When Kate said that, a man who looked like the driver and who was standing in front of the vehicle, opened the backseat door.

– Ah, Hayato…

Emilia, who looked at Hayato’s appearance and murmured his name, was wearing the same dress as when she went to meet the king. Also, for some reason she looked nervous.

– Ah! Wait a minute!

When Hayato got into the car, Emilia told the driver that tried to close the door from the outside, and Emilia turned her eyes to Kate.

– Will you stay to do homework, Kate?

– Yes

Kate nods and continues.

– I have a duty to clean the rooms of Hime-sama and Hayato-sama.

– Would you like to go with me? Being surrounded by Otou-sama, Douglas and the cabinet of ministers, it will be a nuisance to keep their company.

She had thought about it since, after this, Hayato will not be with her.

Emilia considers that she only wants to have an ally close to her, she does not ask for more.

– For much that you say that, Hime-sama, because I have work to do, I will not be able to be with you. And, that reminds me, Claudia-sama and Kilfelthar, why are not they next to you?

– Oh, Claudia and Kilfelthar are in another task at the moment.

– All right, then I’ll pray for Hayato-sama’s victory while I clean up. Have a good day, Hayato-sama, Hime-sama. I pray that you have good fortune in the war―

Then the conversation with Kate ended.

With a *BATON*, the door was closed, and the car began to move.

Then, Emilia immediately approaches his ear and asks him.

– Is it like you still haven't had contact with Claudia and the others?

– Uhmm…

Hayato frowned indicating that he was worried.

– I also sent an email to Sakura, but she hasn't answered either.

Emilia speaks slowly and close to his ear, taking into consideration that the driver did not listen to them. Similarly, Hayato also responded with a low voice.

– For some reason I have a bad feeling. Even if the Hundred was originally sent, it is very strange that they haven't arrived at this time, I will call Claudia again. It is also absolutely necessary to tell them immediately that we are heading towards the arena.

Emilia takes the PDA out of her pocket and tries to contact Claudia. But, it’s impossible, it does not call.

– Hmmm, I can't connect…

– In that case, I’ll try with Sakura.

Hayato also takes his PDA and tries to contact Sakura, but the result is the same. It is announced that there is no coverage or that the device is turned off.

– Why is this happening? I don't think there is no coverage area around the station…

Emilia tilts with the sound.

The vehicle keeps moving towards the arena.

– How much more is it for us to get to the stadium?

– Hmm, would you say about ten minutes?

It has been five minutes since the vehicle began to move. This means that the distance between the arena and the palace is about fifteen minutes.

*TURURURU*, *TURURURU*…

– Oh…!

The melody of the incoming call emitted by Hayato’s PDA resonated inside the car.

Looks at the screen. It’s an incoming call from Kiris.h.i.+ma Sakura.

[It finally connected!]

When Hayato pressed the b.u.t.ton, Sakura’s voice of emotion was so loud that his ears ached.

– Why, so suddenly the voice so strong?

[Because it has finally connected! I’m grateful that after getting here you’re fine!]

– Get here … Could you meet Claudia and Kilfelthar?

[Err, somehow … but, after this, the worst is really coming. The traffic lights are off due to a big blackout and this has turned into chaos. Therefore, the car is stuck in the middle of traffic congestion. In addition, radio waves from the PDA are outside the prefecture *. Honestly, this is a terrible sabotage]

TN: Textually says like that the kanji.県 外 = kengai, outside the prefecture.

– “Sabotage” … don't tell me―

[Claudia says that what has been happening at this moment, is definitely due to an intervention by Prime Minister Bratt who is related to Douglas]

– … for real…?

[But we’re fine. Leaving Kilfelthar driving the vehicle, and being armed here as well as Claudia, we will arrive quickly using energy. Where are you now, Hayato-kun?]

– To be honest we are heading towards the arena.

[In that case, I will personally leave the Hundred in the arena]

In the same instant Sakura said that.

[It’s dangerous, Sakura-san!]

Claudia’s voice was heard, and at the same time he heard *PAAAAAAN*, the firing of a gun.

[―KYA!?]

What he heard next was Sakura’s scream.

– Hey, Sakura! What is happening!?

Even though Hayato shouted, he did not hear the return voice. And the call was also disconnected.

– Hayato, what happened?

– Suddenly a shot was heard accompanied by Sakura’s scream, and then the call was cut off.

– Huh? … That, don't tell me that was the bad feeling…?

– Sakura’s words, she told me that they had received sabotage.

-…Sabotage? Why something like that…?

– There was a blackout at the station and the signal stopped, then they were stuck in traffic, among other things.

– Wait a minute. That means they will not be able to deliver the Hundred on time….

– Sakura and Claudia seemed to get out of the vehicle, armed, saying that using energy they could deliver it quickly and―.

He heard the scream moments ago.

He was anxious. It was the same for Emilia.

– I can't be helped. I will go to pick it up myself.

As soon as the private vehicle stopped at the traffic lights, Emilia opened the door and went down the road.

– Hey, where are you going…?

– Emilia smiled sweetly at Hayato, took the Hundred that was on her chest, squeezed it firmly, then shouted.

– HUNDRED, ON!

With a radiant bluish white, she displayed

> Arms Shroud, in the waistband of the dress, and created a kind of propulsion device “Thruster“, similar to wings, which is the same as Claire uses, in her back.

– Using this I will fly and get to where Claudia and the others are, to get the Hundred. In this way I will get there faster, and even if I don't know what the situation is or what might happen, it will be better to face them with all my might.

– … “Might”, are you okay with that suit?

Emilia is not wearing her Variable Suit now. But her appearance is of a dress.

– No problem, no problem. This clothes, its skirt is long, and by flying through the skies, even if I’m in a fight, nothing will be seen inside of it. So far, I feel comfortable not having to strain and have to be hiding things like other women.

– No, I didn't mean that…

Okay, if Emilia’s ability is enough, then it may not be a matter of concern.

– In any case, we don't have time. I will definitely deliver the Hundred before the battle starts. Hayato, trust me and wait for me. Tell my father that I'll be late. Until then, take care!

Emilia injects energy into the gun barrel and flies powerfully in the direction of the station.

***

– You, don't move!

Sakura and Claudia turn their eyes towards the place where the voice came from.

There were more than ten people belonging to the Gudenburg police, and each of them pointed their gun.

– Hey! Why is it now that we are being targeted by the police!? And as if that wasn't enough, they shoot my PDA! I will sue them!

– Silence! Surrender and raise your hands right now, terrorists!

That was what a man of average height said and who was in his forties. He is the captain of the Public Order Maintenance Unit under the direct control of the Privy Council. It was also he who shot Sakura’s PDA.

– Huh? Wait a minute. We terrorists? What nonsense are you saying!?

– There’s no point in continuing to deny it. You are being sought internationally for being members of the anti-Slayer organization. You are some dreadful and terrible terrorists!

– Huh?

– Check this out!

The captain of the law enforcement unit pulled out two sheets of paper. In them, the faces of Sakura and Claudia were printed.

– Hey! What the h.e.l.l does this mean!?

Sakura, who is next to Claudia, asks her the question.

– It seems that the Prime Minister of this country has influence on public safety and wanted us to be on the list of those wanted by the police. Currently the Prime Minister is our enemy, as he has links with Emilia-sama’s fiancé―

– Whaaaaat! How did something like this happen!?

Holding their weapons, the members of the POMU approached them. As Sakura stepped back, carrying with both hands the small box that contained Hayato’s Hundred, she raised her voice to the forces of the POMU.

– Hey you, is it that you don't know who I am? I am the Idol that travels around the world, the

> Oriental Wizard, Kiris.h.i.+ma Sakura!

– Ha! Trying to fool us with your lies, impostor!

It was the captain who screamed.

– We have information that the terrorists have stolen reports from Gudenburg’s army and that they are acting with someone trying to impersonate an Idol!

– But what are you saying! If you think I’m an impostor, then listen to me sing a song and―.

– Shut up!

– Wha―

Simultaneously with a dry sound, Sakura is left with an impressed view. The captain fired a bullet at Sakura’s feet.

– If you continue to put up resistance, next time I will not fail!

– … Tch!

Sakura leaves her face tense.

– At this point, there is no other method but to use force.

Muttering very low, Claudia continued.

– Sakura-san, leave this to me. Please deliver that Hundred to Kisaragi Hayato.

– I'll do it.

Saying that with a small voice, Sakura nodded. The public security staff was getting closer and closer.

Claudia quickly pulls out the Hundred that was on her chest, holds it firmly and then screams.

– HUNDRED ON!

Particles of a light brown color form a huge steel ball in her right arm. Seeing that scene, and while the forces of the POMU were disturbed, Sakura also picked up her Hundred from her chest and screamed.

–

> HUNDRED ON!

Along with the appearance of emerald green particles, four wings appeared on Sakura’s back.

– Ack, are these guys from the anti-Slayer organization capable of deploying weapons? Is the rumor that they are artificial Variant true?

One of the members of the POMU shouted.

– d.a.m.n, but that person really is a Variant!

Screaming, Sakura made a high jump, landing on the branch of a tree.

– Do not let the impostor of Kiris.h.i.+ma Sakura escape! Shoot!

– I won't allow it!

Claudia uses the steel ball and knocks down the forces of the POMU that were ready to shoot.

– Sakura-san, now!

– Understood!

Sakura jumps to the opposite side of where the POP staff is located. Her destination is further ahead, the observation platform that is located on the cliff.

– Although I am mainly a singer, I must fulfill my role as Slayer. Even if I can't fight, I know there’s something I can do!

Sakura jumped very high, landing on the parapet of the observatory with her feet. After manipulating energy for about a hundred meters, she landed on the ground, subtly began to float and then immediately began to accelerate while she was in the air. She was heading to her destination, the arena, which is where Hayato is waiting.

***

Has she got rid of her persecutors, since five minutes have pa.s.sed?

Sakura is impatient and looks at the clock located in the park.

(Faster, faster, I can't be late for Hayato-kun!)

But, her speed is already at her limit. By the time she reaches the arena, the time for the start of the duel will have been reached.

It may be that she won't make it.

– ―Wha…

Sakura looks back quickly as she suddenly feels a presence of energy approaching from behind. She tried to deploy the barrier but, at that moment, it was too late.

In the very moment she turned back, something brushed Sakura’s face, and one of the wings on her back was cut off.

– But what was that, right now?

Looking back to the place to where that happened a moment ago, a blade was falling towards the ground. It seems that it was created using energy. It becomes particles and disappears.

(Where the h.e.l.l will it have thrown that? And to top it off, it dares to make a wound on my face, I’m an Idol! Tomorrow I’ll be live!)

While she was filled with anger, looks around her. Then she feels an approaching energy. This time it’s from the right. When she looks in that direction, an object that shone for a brief moment approached at high speed.

– Is it another blade made of energy?

Sakura changes the box to her left hand, extends her right hand in a hurry and deploys the barrier. This time, the blade was blocked.

(Now, where will it be from?)

She looked toward the top of the Jungle-gym that was on the right. However, she could not see the figure of the person.

– … Agh, who is it?

When she noticed, she felt a presence on her back. She tied her hands behind her back to Sakura.

– Appearing in the back without me noticing…!

Turning her head, she saw that it was a woman dressed in a black suit. She put the tip of the blade in Sakura’s nape with the intention of stabbing her.

– Give me the Hundred.

Without even having heard her words, this woman was on Douglas’s side―She must be a murderer with the mission to steal the Hundred.

– Oh? What are you talking about? By Hundred do you mean the one I have, I suppose?

Said Sakura trying to make fun of her. But the woman remains calm.

– I don't mean yours, but the Hundred of Kisaragi Hayato.

Along with this, she puts the blade closer to the nape of the neck.

– But I don't know what you mean by what you’re telling me!

– Give me the content of that box! Give it to me!

The woman was rus.h.i.+ng to take the box from Sakura.

– Stop!

Sakura protects the box by covering it, surrounding it with her body.

(What, what should I do?)

The strength of the woman was considerable. Also, she had a blade. In this way, it would be a matter of seconds to be stolen. If that happens, all the efforts made will be in vain.

– Hand it over!

– Kyaa!

Tossing Sakura aside, the woman took the box by force.

– Please, give it back!

Sakura, who was knocked to the ground, quickly got up and jumped in the direction of the woman to retrieve the box.

– Gaah! Don't bother!

The woman swung the blade and tried to keep Sakura’s body at a certain distance.

A voice arrives there.

– Sakura-san, stand aside!

A smile bloomed on Sakura’s face like a rose.

That’s because the person who owns that voice, fell from the sky, and landed in front of Sakura standing in the way of the woman.

– Emile! Why are you here…? Also, in that appearance. You seem like you are an Ohime-sama. In fact, it really is as if you were an Ohime-sama…

– I have to say that as for that, I’m not Emile, but Emilia. If you allow me.

Saying that, she reduced the Thrusters of her Arms Shroud to particles.

– Tell me, is that box where Hayato’s Hundred is located inside, right?

Emilia looks at the woman’s hand and s.n.a.t.c.hes the box from there.

– … Kuh

– Ok, I must quickly deliver this to Hayato.

– Like I would let you do something like that!

The woman used the ability of her own Hundred to a.s.similate with the environment that surrounds her, doing this to leave under the feet of Emilia. And then as soon as she revealed herself, she attacked Emilia with the blade she produced in her hand.

– Ups…

Emilia suddenly loses her body balance, but quickly manages to recover, and creates a rapier sword using Arms Shroud, to block the woman’s blade.

– Sakura-san, hold this for a moment.

Emilia throws the box to Sakura, handing her Hayato’s Hundred.

– Give me that!

The woman tries to change the target to Sakura, but Emilia does not allow it.

– This is bad, the start time of the duel is approaching. I can't keep you as an enemy in this situation. I will have to act seriously.

Day after day, being the training partner in the use of the sword with Hayato, the expertise of Emilia with the sword is decent.

With this she quickly blows the blade out of the woman’s hand, reduces the sword into particles, and with Arms Shroud, pulls out a Hula Hula * and throws it as if she were going to wrap something with her ring.

If it is thrown from the head and her body is kept inside, then it can be restrained, it is something that is made to capture. The woman, seeing this, she realized. She quickly disappeared from sight using the skill of her Hundred.

It is impossible to find the location of the target if it can't be seen, but Emilia is not at all exasperated.

– Sakura-san, do you know where she is?

– Over there!

Immediately after answering the question, a spot on the ground began to glow with emerald green. With this, the figure of the woman was exposed.

– How, what did you do to know where I was?

– The ability of my Hundred is that of field control. It is as easy as feeling the energy of the place that I explore and thus find where you were hiding.

– … Already here with this, is the end, don't you think?

Emilia manipulated the s.h.i.+ny ring of her hand, pa.s.sed it over the woman’s head, and restrained her body.

– Even if I leave this place, the ring will not disappear for at least fifteen minutes. The duel has already begun.

With that said, Emilia approached Sakura.

– Well, then, give me the box.

– Huh? I can't do something like give it to you. That’s because I’m the one who will take it to Hayato-kun.

– What are you talking? We don't know if there will be traps along the way, I will also fly faster if I go on my own.

– But, thanks to me now you, you could do something, don't you agree?

– That may be true, but…

– Then, take me with you. Or should I say, I will not give it to you unless you take me there. First of all, it was a promise with Hayato-kun that I would see his duel!

It was certainly that kind of promise. Emilia remembers that.

– Aaa fine, I'll do it. There is no point to continuously discuss here. Let’s go immediately to the arena. We don't know if the duel has really started.

***

– Is time.

That was told to Hayato, who had just changed to his Variable Suit, by two soldiers who wore the uniform of Gudenburg’s army. Both soldiers seem to be almost thirty years old and it is likely that they are not Slayers.

– Emilia is already here?

– ………

Trying to get their attention, he got no response.

(How complicated …)

As things are, he will have no alternative but to fight with that poor quality Hundred he has in his right hand.

(I wonder if with this I'll be able to carry out Dr. Charlotte’s plan…)

Honestly, I no longer believe in myself.

– Come on, hurry up!

If he decides to move at a slower pace to gain time, he is rushed by the soldiers in front.

He already reached the battlefield. Douglas, who is dressed in his Red Variable Suit, is waiting in the center. Looking sideways briefly, he could see the figure of the king, the Pope, and of Prime Minister Bratt in a room closed with gla.s.s at the top of the seats of the spectators.

Unfortunately, both Emilia’s and Claudia’s figures, he could not find them.

– How unfortunate for you, Kisaragi Hayato.

Laughing in a burlesque way and looking down on him, Douglas spoke.

– Unfortunate you say, and why?

– Princess Emilia is not here. I guess it’s because she doesn't want to see the person she loves to lose?

He laughs provocatively.

– You shouldn't say that kind of thing as if was nothing. Although I wonder if it’s a habit, but why did you do it?

– What are you saying?

Laughing, Douglas deployed his armament.

– HUNDRED ON!

The ring on his right hand shone in a red color, and a red sword appeared. His Hundred,

> Red Glory, is of the Chevalier type.

Douglas says pointing the blade of the sword at Hayato.

– b.a.s.t.a.r.d, you also deploy your weapons, fast.

– Emm, I think Emilia will be here shortly. Would it be impossible to make you wait until then?

Of course he would not even consider accepting it. It is a proposal that considers extending the time, even for a single second.

-You b.a.s.t.a.r.d, what are you saying! His Majesty and the Pope are very busy people who are watching this duel. It isn't possible to extend the start of this fight for a second. Also, why are you so sure that Princess Emilia will be here soon?

Douglas has a totally inadequate laugh that floats on his face. He won't give at all even a fraction of a second.

Maybe he should have said he forgot to bring his Hundred, surely he would have gained some time. But, there is also the possibility of being given a multi-purpose Hundred. And with that he only could demonstrate the level of force as if it were the same as a product of poor quality, therefore, his situation would not change.

(Being already in this situation, is there something I can really do?)

Maybe he can't do anything about the duel, but he can try to buy time. After all, he had no choice but to trust Claudia, Sakura and Emilia.

Hayato, who had prepared for the worst, screamed taking the Hundred and holding it in his chest to move it forward.

– HUNDRED ON!

The reddish Hundred became particles and Hien appears in the hands of Hayato.

(It’s the same as last night, it has the same appearance and weight as the usual one…)

But, there is no doubt that it is a product of poor quality.

Even if he tries to concentrate energy sense, he can't feel it in the pattern of the sword.

– Then, let’s start the duel.

When Douglas said that, the soldiers inside began to leave the battlefield, one after the other. Then, the doors leading to the waiting room were completely closed.

(Now, what will we do?)

Even if Emilia brings the Hundred, she will not be able to enter the battlefield. Although it is not visible from the seat of the spectators, there is a barrier based on tempered gla.s.s.

(But, if we talk about them, they will think about something)

He will have to trust them to the end, since apart from gaining time, it is unlikely that he can do anything else.

– Get ready, Hayato!

Douglas affirms his sword.

Preparing, as he was told, Hayato also prepared his sword.

Along with the sounding of the ring on the battlefield, the battle began.

However, neither Douglas nor Hayato move. Time runs, five seconds, ten seconds pa.s.s.

– You'll not come?

Asks Douglas, as if his patience was running out.

– If you don't move, then I’ll go there!

Douglas raises his sword, pointing to the sky.

– Red Dragon*―Glory to the Kingdom of Wenz!

* TN: This dragon is Chinese, using the kanji 竜 = tatsu

Along with that scream, his body is completely covered with a thick red armor.

Full armament, so unexpected―.

On his head appears a helmet with the figure of a dragon.

– Here I go, Kisaragi Hayato!

Douglas kicks the ground and launches to attack Hayato.

And, right at that moment.

With a *BANG*, all the lights in the arena went out.

– Wh- What?!

The battlefield abruptly turned dark.

Confused by the unexpected fact, Hayato looked around.

Before such Hayato, and without a doubt, Douglas decides to attack.

– …Kuh!

Hayato, at the last moment, managed to repel Douglas’s attack with his Hien.

– Wait a minute! Don't you see there's something wrong?

– Whether you acknowledge it or not, the duel has already begun!

Douglas raises Red Glory high above his head.

– Begun you say, but not in this type of situation, which is not appropriate! Even in the audience, the situation there is also in chaos!

Hayato yelled while dodging Douglas’s attack.

With this darkness, he can't see anything in the field, not even what is in front of him.

– Don't tell me, you b.a.s.t.a.r.d, that you think this is a coincidence?

Mocking, Douglas smiled evilly.

That is why Hayato is confused.

– No way, you’re also involved in this!?

– Hahaha, that’s right! It’s the same as with your Hundred!

– Kuh…!

Uncovering his own crimes, Douglas makes another attack.

– I knew it, so there was really someone who was hurting Sakura and Claudia, it was you!

– It doesn't matter a single s.h.i.+t what you say!

Douglas executes another attack. The trajectory of a red sword that comes from above is seen in the darkness.

Hayato flew and dodged it.

– Are you happy, winning this way?

– …Win you say? Haha, what are you saying!? My goal is not to win against you, Kisaragi Hayato!

-… What…?

– My goal is to steal your fiancee and kill you, for shaming me!

Douglas declares that, with the tip of his sword in his right hand, Red Glory, pointing towards Hayato.

– … You'll kill me…?

– That’s right, make it look like an accident in the middle of battle!

In other words, it was to not show the circ.u.mstances to the audience.

Eventually, not being stopped by anyone, for sure end up leading to oblivion to Hayato, thanks to the blackout that has occurred.

And in this particular situation, it would not be known who could attack and from where. Since there is the possibility that the female escort is hiding. If you add to that, the constant kicks from Douglas, the use of energy to exert pressure with his sword, to those attacks, is considerable.

Of course, the sword is also granted energy. In this situation, it is impossible to judge to what extent it is able to withstand the product of poor quality.

– How persistent, Kisaragi Hayato!

– That’s it, because I can't give up. I will resist until Emilia and the others arrive!

Douglas, who exchanged attacks on the low quality product, turned his body, and lifted Red Gloria over his head. Energy covers the sword, looking like a burning flame.

– Even if she came now, what will you do!

– …kuh!

It is the most powerful attack Hayato has received so far, and by using his two arms to block it, they are numbed.

– Wow, how unexpected that you have blocked it at this point, Kisaragi Hayato.

– I trust that Emilia and the others will do something … Until they arrive, I can't afford to lose!

– … Tch, you’re a completely irritable man!

Saying that, as if he were spitting saliva, Douglas continued.

– If you say you want to go so far, then I’ll give you d.a.m.n true despair, I’ll make you talk no more of hope! Dual Act!

The ring of his left hand s.h.i.+nes and transforms into a black sword, with a sinister appearance that merges with the darkness.

– … Kuh, to challenge that is a little…

– Obviously, deploying it when you are attacking is something unexpected to do, but, you are special, Kisaragi Hayato. Make sure you die with enough desperation while

Holding Red Gloria in his right hand―and in his left hand to Death Star, Douglas prepares to attack.

– Hahaha, with this darkness, you will not be able to see Death Star's trail!

Certainly, it is as Douglas says. Compared to Red Gloria, Death Star’s trajectory is quite difficult to see. Apparently, it is for that reason among all that there was a power shortage.

His hands are being completely occupied. Moreover, since there are two swords now, the number of movements has doubled. The blade of the product of low quality, by intercepting so many slashes, it would not be surprising that it is on the verge of breaking at any time.

Douglas has also noticed.

– Apparently the time is soon over for you, Kisaragi Hayato! Better yet, this will be your

end!

Red aura on his right arm. Black aura on his left arm.

Wrapping the two swords with a powerful energy that completely covers his body, enough to make the body seem to be split in two, Douglas attacks.

– Now, this will really be your

end, Kisaragi Hayato! Your life too, of course! You, before my Dual Act, you will receive the blow of defeat!

A blade wrapped in something similar to a burning flame, hits hard to the product of bad quality.

Somehow it has been able to hold up until now, but, nevertheless, with the impact of the attack of the black blade, finally its limit has arrived.

– Ah…!

The blade of the poor quality product broke, becoming particles, disappearing as if they were bubbles.

– Hahahahaha, this is the power of my Dual Act! You saw it, Kisaragi Hayato!

One thrust of Red Gloria was projected from the right arm that was thrown from the side. With this, Hayato’s body was sent to the border of the field.

– Aaghh!

He received a very strong impact on his back.

– Kh, agh … d.a.m.n…

The blow he received on the side of his chest was fierce and painful. It may be that he has two, or maybe three, broken ribs. Still, Hayato tries to get up off the ground, with his poor quality item broken. Then, Douglas comes to him.

– Aren't you going to pray for your life?

While looking down at Hayato, who was trying to get up, Douglas kicked Hayato’s body, sending him flying.

– Gaah!

Hien, the poor quality item, separated from his hand, falling on the sand.

– Something like this, I must resist!

This time, Hayato continued talking as he laid his hands directly on the ground and tried to get up again.

– Unfortunately, I don't have the slightest intention of being cornered. Definitely WE can't be defeated by someone like you!

– We? What, you rascal, are you still thinking that Emilia will arrive here?

– Of course.

Hayato responded immediately.

– Emilia and the others being here, and even the ones in Little Garden against the Homunculus, for no reason we will be defeated!

When Hayato gave those names, Douglas’ eyebrows began to move.

– Why mention here Little Garden and the Homunculus?

He caught the bait, Hayato thought.

It is for that reason that, he decided to follow that line. All in order to gain time.

– We already know. It was you who released the Homunculus in the city of Sangria.

– Haha, HAHAHAHAHAHA!

With a very strong tone, Douglas laughed.

– What are you saying so suddenly, huh? I wonder, if perhaps it is just conjecture or something like that?

In fact, it is as he said.

But, he can't say it out loud.

That is why he must make Douglas let the evidence escape through his mouth.

– Well, even so, I think it’s fine. I will tell it especially to you, totally. Yes it is true.

– Huh…?

Hayato was surprised by the sudden confession. And this because he did not think he was going to talk so easily.

– Why do you put a surprised face? What did you think that I wasn't going to do it? Or is it that you even thought you could buy time with this question? Anyway, this is a stupid conversation. No matter what I say to a man who is going to die right now, I won't have any issues. I will admit it obediently.

– Then tell me, why you decided to do something like that! There have been victims in Sangria! Even my sister was attacked by the Homunculus!

– Hahaha, why, you ask? Well, that’s it, it’s decided that you’re not the only one who has embarra.s.sed me, Kisaragi Hayato!

– What have you just say?

Douglas continues with his words, with a look of madness lodged in his pupil.

– To summarize, to me, Princess Emilia, who has rejected my engagement, and was after you, even reaching Little Garden, has committed the same offense! That is why if I kill the person that Emilia loves, I will also destroy Little Garden, which is where she now resides, and experience the sufferings of h.e.l.l! All this has been said by G.o.d for it to be done. Otherwise, the battle weapons used for Little Garden could not have reached my hands by mere luck. That is why the suffering I have experienced―no, the people of Wenz's suffering, who have lived it for years, I will give it to you!

Hayato dodged Red Gloria that was thrown down by Douglas, while rolling on the ground. While aiming there, Douglas began to attack with his other weapon, Death Star.

– As long as I win this battle, I will become the commander of the Unified Slayers troops of the army of Britannia, so at dusk, with Bratt carry out a coup d’etat and take full control of the Federation of Britannia! Later, we will join Al Saram, and taking Warslan and Liberia beyond destruction, this change within the world will make Wenz definitely stand on top of the world! That is what G.o.d has demanded!

– That’s your goal! But it’s ridiculous! To achieve that goal according to what you say, many lives are going to be sacrificed!

Hayato continued trying to block the attacks of Douglas who was attacking with both swords frantically, picking up from the ground what was left of Hien.

– … Sacrifices? And what about it!? Our nation was treated like real slaves, while Gudenburg was developing itself! What I am doing is nothing different from it! But the world has changed! And now is the time to take the opportunity to revenge! It’s because now I have the power to use that opportunity! All thanks to this power that G.o.d has given us, Homunculus!

– Don't be kidding with that! Utilizing G.o.d for your convenience, and what is that, create hatred with hatred! The cycle is repeating itself once again! And even to you, the day will come when they will want to revenge themselves!

– Silence, meddlesome!

Douglas uses Red Gloria to send flying the bad quality item out of Hayato’s hands, breaking it. When it falls to the ground, it becomes particles and returns to being a Hundred.

Simultaneously, Hayato’s armament disappears. Giving as a result, that is in a state of being totally cornered in the field.

– This is the end. Die, Kisaragi Hayato!

Douglas raised very high Red Gloria against Hayato, who nothing else can do.

*DON*, a sound resounded, one of the doors in the audience opened completely.

– Hayato!

– Hayato-kun!

– Emilia, Sakura!

When he looked in the direction where he subtly heard the voices that said his name, he could see the figure of two people who appeared from behind the door. Both were with their armaments deployed, and they were s.h.i.+ning.

Emilia has the rapier sword in her hand. From her back, the voices of the security guards of the arena and the ones that respond directly to the Privy Council, the POMU are heard. In addition, there is Prime Minister Bratt. He strongly gives the order to the guards and to the POMU.

– d.a.m.n, hurry up and arrest the terrorists!

– Emilia, hurry!

– I know that!

Emilia kicks the concrete and jumps. Using the rapier sword, it gives a hit to the reinforced gla.s.s. If the barrier had been in normal conditions, even Emilia, with all her strength, could not have made a single scratch. But, due to the power outage, the barrier is not deployed.

In an instant she knew. Then, Emilia kicked out with her foot, and with her armament aimed at the tempered gla.s.s, she drew a line, making a big hole.

– Quick Sakura, the Hundred!

– Yes!

Sakura got rid of her persecutors who were the arena's guards and the POMU, taking the Hundred out of the small box, throwing it to Hayato.

– Receive it, Hayato!

– As if I would allow something like that!

Douglas halved the Hundred that was thrown at Hayato, using his Red Gloria.

– …It can't be…

Sakura’s eyes that saw that, were painted in despair.

Sakura, who was dismayed to the point that she did not resist the guards who came to attack from behind. Hayato and Emilia were the same.

All they did was be completely lost, staring at the Hundred that had been cut in half.

– Haha, hahahaha! G.o.d, G.o.d is my ally!

Douglas yelled as if he had already been the winner, and for a second time he lifted Red Gloria over his head.

– Die, Kisaragi Hayato!

– Hayato!

– Hayato-kun!

With the screams from the bottom of the hearts of Emilia and Sakura, Hayato rolled on the sand, dodging the sword that came down, and picked up one of the halves of the Hundred that was cut in two.

– Don't you know when to give up!? Is it that you will get something by grabbing that!?

Douglas tried to cut Hayato who was crawling on the ground. At that moment, Hayato increased the energy of the Hundred fragment that was in his hand. With this, the Hundred s.h.i.+nes tenuously, showing a reaction.

(Even in this condition, it can be used…!)

The first and most important thing to do is to prevent Douglas’s attack. With his hand extended towards the front of his body and holding the Hundred, Hayato exclaims.

–

> HUNDRED ON!

A barrier deploys in front of him. After containing the attack of Douglas, Hayato rolls on the ground, picking up the other fragment of the Hundred and gets up.

(In this fight, I absolutely will not lose!)

When he looks at where Emilia and Sakura are, they were captured by the guards led by Bratt and forced against their will to lie on the ground face down.

(Neither Douglas nor Bratt, I absolutely will not forgive them!)

His heart jumped, giving very strong beats.

Under this strong emotion, it seems that the Variant Virus within the body is responding to it.

And as planned by Charlotte, Douglas told everything about his plan.

All this should have been recorded by the small voice recorder, which is inside the case where he can store the Hundred, located at the base of the neck of the Variable Suit.

If he manages to win this battle and make a broadcast of this recording, then it will be the victory of Hayato and the others.

(That’s right, I have to win!)

When deciding that with all his might, the fragments of the Hundred, held one in each hand, shone brightly.

(Anyway, they’ll become particles.) Even if it’s split in two, it should somehow―)

In the end, that would be no more than the ideal scenario.

But―.

(This Hundred should be able to respond to my emotions, since, this is the Hundred that was made for me!)

Hayato says himself with much conviction.

– Kisaragi Hayato, you, don't tell me…

– Yes, that's right.

Actually, I do not know if I can do it. But, I have to try it, I will not stay like this!

Hayato screamed loudly as he held the Hundred in both hands with all his strength.

– HUNDRED ON!

His body is covered with thicker than normal armor.

– Full armament!

Emilia gave a voice of joy.

– And besides that―.

Sakura looked surprised.

– Yes, it has the same Dual Act as Douglas!

– …Why you, b.a.s.t.a.r.d, can you have Dual Act!?

Douglas yelled, as he stepped back, giving the impression that he was scared.

– About that, I don't know.

I never heard that I could do a double deployment from a broken Hundred.

However, in the hands of Hayato, there is certainty that he possesses something similar to a katana.

Although the one with the right hand is a bit smaller, it is the black katana Hien as such that is in his left hand. On the other hand, in his right hand, something he has never seen has manifested, it was a white katana. Its color looks exactly like Emilia’s armament.

– But, this Hundred is able to respond to my emotions. I wanted that, that I would not lose this fight. For all those who put their effort into bringing the Hundred to me, I will definitely win!

Hayato prepares his two katanas and goes after Douglas. To that attack, Douglas tries to block it with his two swords. A total of four swords are found, which collide in pair. But in terms of sword handling, Hayato is superior.

– … Kuh, d.a.m.n! What is this power…!

– It’s our power! It’s the power of Little Garden's Slayers! You, who tried to win with that cowardly form, I will not be defeated!

– Gah…!

Douglas Red Gloria is broken by the black katana that Hayato balanced.

Seeing the opening he achieved with that maneuver, Hayato launched an attack with his white katana.

– Haaaaaaaaaaaaaa!

Even though he hit him over the armor, he struck splendidly on Douglas’s shoulder.

– Gah … s.h.i.+t…!

Douglas’s body collapsed, falling with his knees on the ground.

Picking up Death Star from the ground with his left hand, he tried to get up once more, but apparently he is not able to achieve it.

He falls back to the floor again. This time, his full armament was also cancelled.

Hayato stands in front of that Douglas and asks him.

– Does it look like you give up?

– …So I see.

Muttering as if surrendering, Douglas extends his hand to Hayato. It is then that the tension in Hayato’s body disappears. And with that, Hayato presents his hand.

But the eyes of Douglas that captured that moment, shone with rage.

– Stupid, as if I was going to give up!

Douglas, who was already holding the red sword in his other hand, aimed it at Hayato’s throat in order to cut it.

But instantaneously, Hayato’s eyes shone a golden color. This made him move in a hundredth of a second to avoid him.

Hayato’s Variant power responded to the crisis that was shown.

– Wh- What…? How did you dodge it…?

He has the impression that it was a last attack, using all the strength he had left.

Douglas’s body fell to the ground.

*BATAN*

– It seems that I arrived late somehow.

That was the voice that was heard in the field. It belongs to Serivia.

She came down to the field from the audience, which was where she was.

– Who the h.e.l.l are you!?

The guards who had Emilia and Sakura under control, complained to Serivia.

– Don't put your hands on Serivia-sama.

– I will not forgive you if you do something to her.

– … Serivia?

– My name is Serivia Notredame, Paulo III, and the current Puritaria's Pope.

– What, what the?!

– Leaving that aside, what do you think you are doing to these people? She is Emilia Gudenburg, the third daughter of the King of the Kingdom of Britannia, Gra.n.a.ld Frederick Arthur Gudenburg. Release her immediately. Of course, also to her friend who is at her side.

– As you say, Pontiff-sama. But they were who short-circuited the distribution panel, causing the blackout―no, this was made by Bratt-sama…

– That, that…

He was babbling, given that his tongue was entangled in words while his eyes looked at the captain of the guards.

– As I’ve been saying, we’re not terrorists!

Emilia shouted.

– Let go of us at once!

Sakura continued exclaiming that.

The guards freed both, while an expression of bewilderment floated on their faces.

– Hayato!

– Hayato-kun!

Sakura and Emilia quickly run and descend towards the battlefield, pa.s.sing through the hole that was made in the tempered gla.s.s.

Then, they canceled the armament.

– Are you okay, Hayato?

– It looks like you’re a little hurt.

– Only a little. It’s thanks to you for bringing me the Hundred. Only the Hundred has ended this way.

Hayato canceled his armament, and turned his eyes to the two halves of his Hundred.

– However, that you could perform Dual Act, Hayato is awesome! Hey, what about the strategy we had planned? It was a success?

– Ah! I think it recorded everything perfectly…

While saying that, Hayato took out an elongated cylindrical machine, about two inches long from the case of his neck, and handed it to Emilia.

– Practically, Douglas told us everything under his own initiative. Not only about my Hundred, but also about the blackouts, the connection he has with Bratt and that related to the Homunculus.

– Did you say recording…?

Douglas murmured. He tries to get up with his knees on the ground. Looking at Douglas, Emilia speaks to him.

– If I inform my Otou-sama about this, you will be finished! You tried to kill Hayato, you tried to hurt Little Garden, I will not forgive you!

– d.a.m.n, give me that!

Douglas jumps, trying to steal the voice recorder. However, Emilia dodges it, and takes out her Hundred from her pocket, deploying it.

– HUNDRED ON!

Arms Shroud forms around the waist, while releasing a bluish white. Emilia changes one of the cl.u.s.ters into a rapier sword, picks it up, and charges it to Douglas who was again jumping.

– Surrender, realize that this is the end, Douglas! I will tell everything about you to Otou-sama, so immediately stop attacking Little Garden!

– Agh …

Douglas, cornered, twisted his face as he collapsed on the ground. At that moment, he heard a faint voice.

– Emilia, lower your weapon.

With that voice, the atmosphere in the arena changed completely.

– Otou, sama…?

– There was something strange that was happening, and Pontiff-dono thought there was a problem with you because you were not here, so she suggested that I should secretly come down here. Along the way, she told me everything―.

Surrounded by many soldiers, King Gra.n.a.ld appeared on the battlefield. Emilia, in view of the circ.u.mstances, removed her weapon, and canceled the armament.

– Prince Douglas.

King Gra.n.a.ld continued his words, glaring at Douglas.

– As king of Gudenburg―no, as king of the Federation of Britannia, I must make a trial without mercy on you. I hope you are prepared.

– …Kuh…

Douglas decided to prepare for the worst, but collapsed on the ground.

– Of course you too, Bratt!

– Hiii!

His name, when p.r.o.nounced by King Gra.n.a.ld, rushed on the concrete. With his body trembling, as if he had chills, he looks at the king and proposes to him.

– Oh, allow me to speak, your majesty! We have no relations.h.i.+p of any kind! Who did all this, was one person, that person is Douglas―.

– Seems like you do not know when to surrender, Prime Minister Bratt.

The door at the entrance to the audience opened, and a young woman appeared.

Seeing this figure, Emilia said raising the volume of her voice.

– Claudia! And also Kilfelthar!

– We apologize for making you wait, Emilia-sama. We have arrived a little late, but we have brought someone with us.

At the end of Kilfelthar’s words, Claudia clicked with her fingers. That made a man appear behind both of them.

– You, you are…

Douglas’s face turned pale at the sight of that man.

He is the captain of the POMU that responds directly to the Privy Council.

– He moved with the orders that Prime Minister Bratt gave him and confessed that he tried to arrest us. In other words, he is also a victim. That is why he was also deceived by Bratt.

– Wa-wait a moment! That is a lie! Tremendous slander! That man and that woman are the true conspirators! I also fell into their doing!

– It’s not a slander. In addition, we, the army of Gudenburg, have now captured the personnel of the electricity company, responsible for the power outage that occurred in the area surrounding the station, to the airport staff who called the technician who came from the Republic of Weimar a terrorist and the remaining individuals that caused the power supply to the arena, are in the process of investigation. All his misdeeds are being investigated and soon everything will be revealed.

– Guh…! False, that is false. I am totally innocent! Douglas did everything, that man threatened me!

– So, how on earth could the Prime Minister of the Federal Government of Britannia be threatened by Douglas? I would like if you could tell the same story and its details about it in a trial, what do you think, Prime Minister Bratt?

– …guh, aaaaa…!

The mentally cornered Bratt, falls from his waist to the ground, trembling.

Douglas and Bratt.

Kilfelthar screamed, with a glance at each of the men who were captured.

– We are the soldiers of Gudenburg, who are loyal to the king! Arrest Bratt and Douglas, and take them to prison!