Chapter 36: Epilogue

Part 1

MC's POV

Somehow, there is a strange mood going around the girls. It was quite unsettling that it suddenly appeared without anyone saying a word. Art who was beside me snorted at me and muttered in a low voice that I deserved this, but I believe that I am innocent. However, those thoughts had to come to an end. This guy sang like a bird when I started asking questions, even things related to Kaa-san. Nevertheless, I could do nothing about many of the things I learned, but I could do something.

"…Your sister is waiting, I will lead the way." I spoke.

Art nodded and started to walk away. This idiot had refused to receive first aid until we find Alice, so there was a need to hurry. Art was about to collapse, but this stubborn person was dead set on confirming the safety of that girl.

"We will be back soon, please take care that this guy doesn't escape." I said.

I threw those words before leaving, but no one replied. I was sure that someone heard me, but they were busily (?) staring each other in the eyes for some reason. Wait, One, two, three, four… and even more than that, why are there so many catgirls? I just have two, and somehow those are staring at me. It feels dangerous somehow so I just left. Maybe I hit my head during the fight? No, I could be hallucinating as well. With one cursory glance using my ability, I tried to find that weird presence (?), no, glare (?), yes, a glare I felt before. It was like someone was observing us, but there was no ill will. Nonetheless, I couldn't find anything.

…

…

…

"What do you plan to do from now on? You planned to escape as soon as you got a hold of Alice, right?" I suddenly said.

While Art and I followed the path to find 'his' sister, which I confirmed with my ability to be safe, I spoke my mind. Art paused 'his' steps and turned 'his' face at me. With my ability, I saw through the mask and noticed how Art bit 'his' lips and had a bitter smile a second later.

"You plan to stop me?" Art asked.

I shrugged my shoulders and kept walking. 'He' started to follow after me.

"I did not say that. I just asked what you planned to do. Even if I wanted, I cannot stop you from running." I muttered. "That said, even I don't try to stop you or chase after you to fulfill your end of the deal, there are people who will do so. The church can be quite persistent."

"Is this one of those tricks of yours? I won't get fooled like the group of girls you left behind." Art said in a blunt tone.

Oi, that sounded misleading.

"Staying with the youkais can be of help to you, the church has no way to interfere where we reside so you can disappear from their radar that way." I offered.

If I let it be, Art's body will not last much time.

I did not get instantly turned down so 'he' was probably thinking about it, I better let it sink like that and try again when the girl is safe. I recall that Art was quite the glutton when we ate, perhaps I could use food? Nah, who gets lured by that?

...

...

...

If it wasn't because I confirmed with my Ki that there was a human presence there, and my ability showed me that there was indeed someone there, I would doubt what I found at the pointed location.

"Dolls, huh." I muttered.

"Indeed, dolls." Art listlessly repeated.

A large number of dolls were standing guard in the place we walked. It was a surreal sight to see a bunch of dolls that were about 30 cm tall, dressed (?) in frilly dresses. Not to mention, there was familiar looking bear being pinned down on the ground by... several dolls.

I think that was the transformed bear that Tomoe-san and I avoided before.

"...Did she need to be rescued?" I asked.

No matter how I look at it, this was not made by the cultists, they wouldn't make something like this to keep her safe. Yet-

"...It must be her unleashing her hidden potential." Art said in an uncertain tone.

Oi, that was not a real answer.

"...Should we leave?" I suggested.

I felt useless, didn't she need to be saved? Wait, I recalled something. Art was speaking some nonsense about the Imouto having a Sacred Gear, something about a Longinus Fragment. I thought Art was delusional given my memories of the canon, but this world has proven to have many differences from the one in my memory, I can accept that some things are part of what I changed due to my actions, but some are beyond my scope.

"...Please, let's just pick her up." Art spoke in a defeated tone.

So you also feel like me huh. That said, I am feeling like curiosity got the best of me.

"Art, that child's Sacred Gear. You spoke about being a fragment before." I inquired.

"...Are interested in her as well?" Art spoke in a grim tone.

'He' stared at me, or I feel like he did so I got a bit closer and let 'him' do so. Honestly, I am just curious, what kind of things were the sacred gears? What were they made of? I was rather curious about it, but I never had the opportunity to delve deeply into such a thing.

"...looking at you, I can't feel any greed. Are you really a devil?" Art sighed. "However, I don't feel completely at ease. Putting aside her Sacred Gear, she is a girl... a beast like you could put his hands on her."

I see, this 'guy' wants to pick a fight, bring it on.

"Alright, relax. I am not in the mood to fight, I am exhausted." Art spoke and 'he' used 'his' hands to lower my fists. "...telling you won't change anything, it is easy to reach the truth now that you know so much already. Alice has a fragment of Annihilation Maker. Well, it can't be called as such given how limited is the power she can access."

Despite the hesitation, I could read on 'his' face using my ability, Art continued to speak.

"Yet, you cannot forget that it is a Longinus. Even though it lost a considerable amount of power and freedom to create any creature. It made the class of creatures it can create to be easier to use." Art explained.

Hmmm, I see. There is still a lot I find difficult to understand, but I am not a smart cookie, more study is needed. I should visit the Gremory's or the Sitri's library. I bet I can get access if I offer gifts.

"So you have an OP sister." I commented.

That sounds nice, I never had a sister. Well, now I got a Kuroka and a Shirone.

"...I am doing my best to resist this strange urge to knock your head despite not knowing what OP means, I am not sure why." Art said.

This child has much to learn, I will have to write a book about simple 'must-know' terms.

"Let's just pick her up so you can take a warm bath and go to bed early today. I will give you a glass of warm milk and I guarantee that tomorrow you will feel refreshed." I tried to walk closer to the door of the room but the dolls stopped me.

I must say, I was a little reckless, I am not sure what kind of orders were given to them.

"Why do you assume that we will be together by tonight?" Art muttered in a tired tone. "Also, are you my mother? What kind of luxury are you offering to a stranger you met yesterday? You... argh, why do I even bother to retort?"

Art grabbed 'his' head in an exasperated manner but soon took a deep breath and calmed down.

"We should call out to her, if she hears our voice she will leave the room on her own." Art suggested.

I was a bit impressed about how quickly 'he' got his bearing back.

"Alice-chan! We are here to pick you up! We are absolutely not suspicious people!" I called out.

Hmmm? I feel like something was not right, but I could not put my finger on it.

"Couldn't you choose a better way to call her? That was straight from the list of most suspicious phrases! We are here to pick her up, not to make her lock herself even more." Art retorted.

I see, 'he' is right. As expected, something felt out of place.

"I have some candy for you! You just have to follow Onii-chan- muguunnn, oi, Art, why are you covering my mouth." I complained.

Doesn't 'he' want to reunite with her?

"...why are you so reliable sometimes but you start acting like an idiot at other times?" Art muttered in a low tone of voice.

Huh? I am always reliable, how rude.

...

...

...

As soon as Art called out, the dolls let us get closer and the door opened at once. A missile, no, a little girl jumped out to hug the person closest to the door... me. Why? Art just pushed me in front and used me as a shield.

"Guh!" I groaned from the pain.

Pulling the little girl who was rubbing her face on my chest, I begrudgingly took my distance.

"Ah, I made a mistake. It was not One- Ahem, it was not Onii-sama." The little girl, Alice, apologized (?) to me.

I rolled my eyes at her words.

"He knows it all." Art suddenly spoke. "Alice, I am glad that you are ok, I am sorry I took so long to find you."

It gave me the shivers how Art used a warm tone, instead of 'his' cold and blunt one. There was no sarcasm or retorts. It made me wonder if 'he' got swapped for someone else.

"One- Ahem, Onii-sama!" Alice jumped on Art.

Sharing a hug, it would've made a heartwarming scene if the girl did not use too much strength again, pushing the already weakened Art to the ground.

"Heh." I couldn't help but smirk at that.

"Eh!? Are you alright? Ah, it was this person who put you in that state? Worry not, this Alice will bring you justice." Alice-chan turned around and glared at me.

This is no longer funny.

...

...

...

It got a little wild, but the girl was mostly playing around. She is quite the bright child, this girl, Alice-chan does not seem to be the type to be shy around strangers. I even offered her candies and she took them, which made me worry for her future for taking things from strangers.

I did ask her why she easily takes them, and she gave me a rather interesting reply.

"One- Ahem, Onii-sama never had a single friend, not even someone he trusted except the lady who helped us at that time to escape, but now he has warmed up to you." Alice-chan ate one candy and continued. "He never left anyone to get closer to me before unless it was necessary and that was reluctantly, yet... he is at ease with you."

It was quite an exaggeration, and I said that to her at that time. However-

"Not at all, if he planned to only get your help, he would've knocked you unconsciously once you were no longer needed to help us. But you are still calmly walking beside us." Alice-chan smiled.

Art kept his silence all the way, and 'he' limited 'himself' to grab Alice-chan's hand as they walked.

This child said something scary with a bright smile on her face.

? POV

Observing from a hidden position in the forest, two black-cloaked individuals were watching as Nora and the rest left the underground space. Thanks to the help of two orange-haired girls, they left smoothly.

"Even though they were warned to leave, they did something useless. Now many forces will point their blades at us as they search for every little thing we might do."

"Some idiots will remain fools even if they are given a chance to start over with our glorious God. Nevertheless, that is ok as well. If they wish to start looking for us, we will give them something to get hooked into. Make preparations to release the seals of those. That will keep them distracted for a bit while we focus on our remaining task."

"The killing stone, is it? If we are going to release that dangerous beast, then Hunger must be released as well. Kuh, this presence...!"

Suddenly, one of the black-cloaked individuals created a magic circle and teleported both individuals somewhere else.

In the place they were located, there was a literal opening in the space and several eyes could be seen. A hand had extended and a ray of dual colors was realized from the magic circle floating in front of the hand, with a contrasting color of white and black, it struck the location of the black-cloaked individuals but they were gone by the time it happened.

"Tsk, I was slow."

A somewhat lazy voice female voice said that.

"Should we go and give chase? The magic circle they used was not protected against tracking."

"If I give chase, they will be too slow to escape-nya."

A serious voice suggested and another somewhat playful offered.

"No, it could lead us to a trap and I don't feel like getting involved in anything like that for now. We have to pick up those two as well so let them be, there will be another opportunity to hunt them down soon."

"Yes!" "As you wish-nya."

The voices came from that opening in space and just as suddenly it opened, it closed. No one else was left in the place, and the only evidence that something happened was a large hole left in the ground.

"On second thought, Ran, could you fix that for me? It would be terrible if someone felt down there."

The opening was there again and this time it enlarged enough for a person to leave.

Part 2

MC's POV

Finally getting out of that place did not take long after we regrouped. Alice-chan started acting more reserved as we got closer to the others so the reunion was not as cheery as I expected given how bright she acted when Art and I were the only ones around.

From the hole that Kuroka-chan, no, Shizuku-san dug, a pair of familiar-looking girls came flying. Those two, who were the children of Kaa-san's friend, had lent me a hand before during the fight to protect Shuri along with Shion-san. They are funny pair so it will always be lively with them around. In fact, Kaguya-san hit off well with Musashi-san.

Chunnibyo, I am worried about Kuroka-chan and Shirone-chan, will they get sick with second-grade symptoms? I can only be prepared, there is not a particular cure so I might get an even crazier catgirl.

...

...

...

"Suzaku, I think you should communicate with your people as soon as you can. I have some information that you need to give them." I called out. "Those girls found some of the exits from those underground tunnels. There is quite the number and they are located far apart from each other so we need enough people to cover that ground. If those creatures escape, stopping them might become an issue."

As soon as I had some free time after attending to everyone's injuries, Kaguya-san and Yuzuru-san informed me what they had found while they looked for a way to access the tunnels. Different from the human version of those creatures, the ones created using animals last longer for what I have been observing. It is just a hypothesis or perhaps a coincidence, but it is worth being wary of those things escaping, so I brought Suzaku to one side far from everyone and talked about all I heard.

"...Thank you." Suzaku expressed her gratitude. "I will definitely repay you."

Shaking my head, I contained my inner self that wanted to joke by asking her for her hand in marriage. Somehow I feel like she won't be happy if I joke about such a thing. Nevertheless, I don't think she needs to thank me.

"No, consider that we owe each other nothing. I learned quite a bit about Kaa-san thanks to this small adventure. Without this opportunity, I would be clueless." I said.

Suzaku had a troubled smile on her face as I said that. I am sure that for her, this was far from what you could call a proper payment. However, she soon put a pondering expression.

"...So, with what you told me. We do not owe anything to each other, right?" Suzaku asked.

Feeling that it was strange that she was repeating my words like that, I nodded with a clueless expression.

"I am glad." Suzaku directed a sweet but slightly mischievous smile my way. "That means, that the payment for hiring Mister Devil is still pending, right? We will discuss your reward at a later date, so we will meet up again."

What a powerful weapon that smile was, she is so young but she is already quite dangerous for the heart, as expected from a beautiful woman who has an extreme alike-ness to Akeno-san (Canon version).

Chanting Yasaka-san's name in my heart, I controlled the impulse born in my heart.

She clearly played me, but I can't really say I am mad.

"...I won't accept money." I spoke in a determined tone. "However, I can join you if you want to hang out anytime. That much, I would be happy to do so."

Hearing the first half of my words, her expression clouded but she did a turn around when she heard the second half.

I have this subtle feeling that her pink aura got stronger, but it is probably my imagination... nope, no, impossible. I can almost see her eyes in heart shape.

Whatever, I am too tired to solve this now. Nevertheless, I feel like scum if I leave it like this for too long.

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...

Kaguya-san and Yuzuru-san left at my orders, or so they called my simple request to look for Shion-san.

Her safety worried me for a bit since I had done some checkups on her before, and being aware of her injuries, I am sure that pushing herself too hard can be tough. She is a rather stubborn lady who joined my crazy cause to save Shuri while hiding a grave injury that leaves her pretty weakened if she fights for too long. It was terrible that time after arriving at Urakyoto, she fainted after coughing blood. Honestly, I scolded her a lot for being reckless, but she just smiled fondly and in a nostalgic way so I did not continue. As Kaa-san's friend and traveling companion, they went through a lot together so she told me how I reminded her of Kaa-san.

The pair of Tengu girls were literally as fast as the wind, or so they seemed to be as they flew at high speed. Their father was an amazing Tengu from what I heard, but unfortunately, the guy was too old to lend a hand so he sent his daughters instead. It was quite strange how the guy said 'I leave my daughters to you' while looking both happy and sad at the same time. The girls determinedly nodded when their father spoke, but I decided to ignore that nonsense. That old man felt like he had a screw loose.

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...

Offering refreshment to everyone while we waited, I prepared an improved kitchen to feed Alice-chan. The poor girl had not eaten anything since being caught and she was already feeling weak. The blonde-haired girl was laying her head on Art's lap as she slept.

However... why was there a line of girls eying what I am making? Starting with-

"Etto, Kuroka-chan... I have been meaning to ask you, those girls are not part of my imagination, right?" I asked.

Pointing behind her, where the new addition to our group was.

"My subordinates-nya. They are friends-nya, catgirls stick together-nya." Kuroka-chan replied in a happy tone.

No, no, that does not tell me anything... well, more or less.

Since this was for Alice-chan who would struggle with anything tough, I made a simple porridge, and despite the puppy eyes I received, I first and foremost gave the first serving to those who were in a worse state. Alice-chan, Akiko-san, and Shizuku-san, those three had been examined by me, and I concluded that even though there were different things I needed to do to leave them at 110%, they needed to eat first. I am not as heartless to give them those pills Kaa-san made.

"Ok, I understand what they are, I think. However, why are they with you? Why are they following your words? And most importantly, why do you call them catgirls? There are a pair there that obviously have fox ears, they are clearly kitsune." I muttered.

Receiving her bowl of porridge, Kuroka-chan directed a few words at me in a serious tone of voice.

"Catgirls at heart-nya." Kuroka-chan said and turned around.

Grabbing Shirone-chan's share as well, the pair of sisters went to sit nearby.

I honestly had no idea what to say about that. Is there even a retort for such a thing?

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...

Feeding everyone took a while, and yes, I meant everyone. Not a single person missed their chance to eat a bowl of porridge.

The catgirls sent me suggestive looks when they were about to receive theirs but something weird happened when they tried eating it. Some of them even cried as they are it, the craziest ones even muttered something weird about finally tasting happiness, but things got even scarier after they ate. Those fox girls, no, catgirls (at heart) stared at me in a really intense manner.

I decided to ignore all that. Kuroka-chan's friends were never bound to be normal anyway.

By the time Suzaku (who also ate, even two bowls) managed to contact her people, I ran out of ingredients. Well, I only carried a few things to fill my new property with food in case Marion-san got to stay there.

Thinking about it, what is that girl doing? I am worried since a beautiful girl dressed in a maid outfit is eye-catching some she could get into trouble. Nevertheless, my real worry is about what Shirone-chan told me about. That maid protected the white cat even though she could've run.

Marion's POV

Biting her lips, Marion carefully left the tent to not be detected. Despite her spell being able to hide her presence, she won't put her complete trust in it. Today, she already saw it being useless when face with those more powerful than her, so she can not deny that those more skilled could dispel it or detect her. Houjutsu (Japanese Magical Arts) is a technique that has a large branch dedicated to concealment after all, and being one of the Five Clans that has protected Japan from long ago, there are bound to be many skilled individuals, however, she was in luck since no one caught her.

She did not relax until she was at a good distance and alone, only then did she undo the spell.

Sighing in relief, she put a hand on her chest and tried to calm her beating heart. She was not used to being sneaky despite receiving basic training in the guild. Perhaps she should join an advanced course to master the skill, it seemed very useful to learn.

Once again, she confirmed that she was alone. Pulling a piece of burnt paper she hid in her maid uniform, the girl confirmed the contents of the paper again.

"As expected, it was the right choice to keep my eyes on that suspicious woman. She received a letter from a strange man in a black suit and immediately went to read it in a vacant tent." Marion hid the paper again. "Burning the letter and leaving the scene after acting like nothing happened is suspicious."

It was something to be proud of that she managed to find something like that by pure coincidence, although the information is written there was not complete. She was not sure what the Fiend protect was about, but given that part of the paper was burn just before it, she missed an important clue.

Shaking her head, she wondered if such half-assed information can be useful for her future master. She can also offer him the description of the woman, and it could be useful for him to use as a bargaining chip if he has to negotiate for something with the young lady of the Himejima Clan. Nonetheless, they seemed friendly enough so perhaps it would be used to establish a stable information exchange network. Having the lady of such a clan watching your back when you are a Youkai was rather useful.

"Uh? It is getting rowdy over there." Marion directed her attention to the place where the Himejima were gathered at. "Are there any news about Murmur-sama? I should make enough preparations to receive him if that is the case."

Marion thought for a moment and decided to make more reservations in the hotel they were staying at. That black-haired girl could be an acquaintance of the boy, and she even brought that large number of girls with her. It is quite a numerous group, and that is without including the woman with the spiderweb kimono and the orange-haired twins, perhaps a new lodging was a better idea.

There might be more people joining in later if he had more acquaintances nearby so she needs to prepare a lot of spare rooms. Thankfully, Zekram had been kind enough to provide an absurd sum of money for her to settle down properly as well.

Part 3

MC's POV

On the way back, I kept thinking about several things. What should be done about these children?

Akiko is finally rescued, but what kind of future awaits her if I hand her over to the Imperial Family? The girl showed a clear repulsion to the idea and after I managed to coax her (it was easy once I used a strong tone, the girl happily started to tell me about it after being hesitant) to speak, she explained the kind of life she led. The important point here is the way she had a change of fate after getting the Sacred Treasure, the Ame-no-Murakumo is considered a way to choose the ruler of the nation similar to Excalibur in Japanese culture so it was obvious why she became the focus as soon as she was chosen by it. Nevertheless, she does not have it now, we did not get the chance to recover it since it had been already sent away. Now that she does not have her sword, what kind of treatment will she receive? It is not hard to imagine that she won't get the 5 stars one.

About Art and Alice-chan... It is hard to say what kind of life they will lead given that they are on the run.

I am sure Suzaku has her own ideas of what to do with them, the question is if I can convince her to allow me to do so in her stead.

To save Kaa-san, I need people. Skilled people don't fall off from trees, otherwise, I would be planting several of them. Putting aside people like Tomoe-san and Musashi-san who are probably working for some organization already, I am interested in pulling Art, Alice-chan, and Akiko into my own just-thought-of-it group. I already have Shizuku who somehow became a ninja when I left her to protect Kuroka-chan, by raising the number of people who follow my orders, I can extend the range of activities I can do.

One of my biggest worries is to find Kaa-san and be unable to do something for her so I will try to get as many people I can trust to help me. There is a little bit of reluctance to continue using Shion-san and the twin's goodwill for my mother as I please, but beggars can't be choosers.

I will have another chat with Art, Alice-chan, and Akiko before talking to the red-eyed girl.

...

...

...

"Nora... You know that what you are asking is rather troublesome?" Suzaku directed a serious look at me.

I am glad that she did not instantly agree with my suggestions. I would get worried if she went full-otome mode for something so serious. That said, it would've made it easier.

"Yes, I want you to hand over the custody of them to me." I nodded.

Suzaku sighed in response.

"Art and Alice-chan aside, you are aware of the identity of that girl, right?" Suzaku pointed at Akiko who was chatting with Tomoe-san.

I just nodded again which earned me another sigh.

"I can easily let you handle those two since they are basically irrelevant to what I wanted to accomplish. Not to mention, that even if I used them to earn the church's favor, it would not be worthy." Suzaku spoke calmly. "However, that child. The one chosen by the Sacred Treasure of Japan is not the same. Despite the bad news of losing it, she is someone who has a high chance of succeeding the throne to become the 'emperor'. The judgment of that sword is close to this land's God's judgment. Her qualifications are there and with the proper support, she could become an outstanding ruler... or such a thing we were said. It was almost like they expected this to happen."

Suzaku paused when she noticed my look.

"Alright, I get that you won't get what I am trying to say like that." Suzaku pondered for a moment before speaking again. "First of all, it is a request formally made by the rulers of Japan and the Five Clans cannot turn down such a request for no reason at all. We are bound by rules, and despite my wishes, I cannot simply ignore it."

Biting my lips, I thought of a way to solve this.

"...you are aware of the state of her body, right?" I muttered.

Suzaku raised an eyebrow and motioned me to continue after nodding.

"She was basically crippled by those people so she could not escape. I managed to save her life but even then, I am not sure if she will remain in a healthy state while I am not looking. To keep an eye on her, I suggest that she stays under my care until it is considered that she is healthy again." I said.

Suzaku furrowed her eyebrows and did not give a reply at once, she even took a full minute to think.

"...I understand your point. Nora is young but you already have outstanding skills as a doctor. *Sigh*" Suzaku said. "However, it is not beyond the Imperial Family to get skilled physicians. They have connections in places you cannot imagine so that wouldn't work."

I know that, but I think that it is not a reason to give up yet. Several ideas courses through my mind, and I was impressed by the number of them that involved coaxing Suzaku by whispering sweet words close to her ear.

"If... I had proof that they wouldn't treat her kindly, would you help me?" I inquired.

"...are you that interested in her?" Suzaku glared at me. "You are being insistent, you just met her, right?"

I smiled wryly at her obvious jealousy, but I thought back at my real intentions. I don't want to abandon that girl after she went through that. I made a promise, and regardless of the fact that it was something spontaneous, I don't think it is too hard to help her. In the worst case, I can kidnap- ahem, poach her and take her to a place where she can live peacefully while she recovers. From there, it will be up to her to face her problems or just leave behind her previous life. Well, if I manage to convince her to join me in my search, that would be great.

"You know why I am trying to help her." I spoke. "Suzaku, you were not there, but that girl almost died. Her eyes almost lost their light. It was a miracle that she is still alive."

I am not the most religious person, but she did survive by chance. I did help her, but her will to live was what pushed her to fight against the grim reaper.

Suzaku bit her lips and lowered her head.

"I know, but I... feel frustrated that you pay attention to her. Sorry, it is unbecoming of me as the older one." Suzaku lightly slapped her cheeks and returned to her serious mode.

"I do not dislike that part of you, you know?" I commented.

The girl blushed but managed to keep her serious mode.

"I owe you too much so your request is nothing compared to what you have done for me." Suzaku tapped her chin with her finger. "I could do something about it on my end, but I am afraid that the Clan Head will not approve of it."

In that case-

"What if I provided you with some interesting information. One that includes a group of renegades from the Five Clans, a group that is trying to cause the downfall from the ones who pushed them aside." I lowered my tone.

The girl responded by pulling an Ofudas and hastily chanting a short verse. It was probably a spell that was taught in her clan. A sphere expanded from the Ofuda and enveloped us.

Thankfully, we took our distance from the rest of the group before we began our chat so no one noticed what she did.

"...you can speak freely now." Suzaku said. "Please, warn me before you want to drop a bomb the next time."

I handed her a handkerchief, and she wiped the sweat that had appeared on her forehead. Somehow, I feel bad for doing that... yet, there is this feeling of fulfillment. Bullying girls is childish, but she looked cute when she panicked.

"Sorry." I apologized but it might've looked like I was not being honest since I got glared at.

"How do you know that?" Suzaku inquired.

Shaking my head, I only smiled back.

"My source is a secret, however, I think you are interested in the topic." I said.

Thank goodness, I thought I could've made a mistake given the differences between the canon and this world, but Suzaku is giving me her full attention. No, she is getting closer, perhaps a bit too much.

"...are the youkais...?" Suzaku asked with a worried look.

Alright, I got misunderstood. I think I better explain.

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...

...

"That is a lot to take in at once. A secret research about Artificial Sacred Gears, and they are planning to focus on independent avatar types. This is quite detailed... I can't even say how much damage they could be causing under our noses." Suzaku said.

I shrugged my shoulders in response.

For now, I simply provided her with the information about the experiments to created Independent Avatar Sacred Gear, and the possible collaboration with magicians and fallen angels. I pointed out that they were just a group of misfits. However, I abstained from giving them any clue of the four fiends or that overpowered Longinus user. They might try to erase them to avoid future problems knocking on their door. The Clan Head of the Himejimas even tried to kill Akeno-chan who was his flesh, so he will certainly not hesitate to kill the members of the Slash Dog team before they become troublesome to deal with.

"Do you think I could get his collaboration?" I asked.

The girl pulled my cheeks and gave me an accusatory glare.

"You are really a troublemaker, but... thanks. I can help to avoid innocent people from getting hurt with this information. Leave the talks to me, I will get you what you want." Suzaku smiled.

Her sweet smile made me feel bad. She wholeheartedly tries to protect others.

"Hey, aren't you-" I spoke but she put a finger on my lips.

"You had your reasons for only telling me now. Regardless of what they were, I will not condemn you." She gently rubbed my cheeks with her fingers. "You probably would've done something about it on your own, so don't put that sad face. Your kindness is precious, however, do not mistake one thing. It is not your duty to solve every incident you hear about. I have responsibilities, and that makes it my job."

I felt the temperature rise a bit, but I knew the reason. There was not a sudden temperature rise, but I got shy and blushed.

As expected, she is a fearsome child. Her charm is dangerous for the poor lil' old me.

...

...

...

So, there is something I do not understand.

Well, in this world, there are too many mysteries and I don't think that there exists anyone who truly knows all about them. Nevertheless, I cannot explain... why we are going to an open-air bath? A hot spring, an onsen.

Riding the vehicle that had come to pick us up, the whole group boarded it, and now we are going to an Inn with an Onsen, the type Witham open bath.

Truly a mystery.

It all started when-

-Flashback back starts

"It is a pressure to see that you are fine, Shiki-sama." Marion bowed as soon as we meet.

Trying to act composed, I noticed the small gesture of pain on her face when she bowed. It seemed that her injuries were worse than I was told. That said... what is with that sloppy and strange bandage wrapping her? Shirone-chan mentioned that she did a wonderful job and had me praise her with many head pats but I am not sure what to say. If I take her head pats back... would that work by patting her head in reverse motion, no, that is just giving her more, right?

"I heard from the little one, thanks for protecting her." I expressed my honest opinion.

I do not have the Boosted Gear or the Divine Dividing, but I might go Juggernaut Drive mode if something happened to Shirone-chan... well, that includes Kuroka-chan as well.

"I was just doing my job as a maid. Being entrusted with her, I cannot allow anything to happen to Shirone-sama." Marion-san shook her head.

Quite modest, Shirone-chan spoke wonders about her.

"I will take a look at that arm do with your permission..." I said.

Using swift movements, I took her injured arm. Doing a simple examination, I used my Ki to relive the affected areas.

"It is a maid-nya! My greatest enemy has shown itself in front of me-nya. My blood is burning-nya." Kuroka muttered behind me.

Isn't it boiling? Burning blood is scary.

"Don't worry, Anego-nya. We have your back-nya."

"If things go south, we can join you and keep his attention-nya. He won't be able to resist if we all collaborate-nya."

"Reiko-nee, what are you doing-nya?"

"We must write everything we can compile about him-nya. He likes maids, I can tell-nya. We can use it to trap him-nya."

I heard some strange remarks from the cat camp so I decided to ignore them.

More than once did Marion-san try to pull her hand away, saying something about a Master not having to worry about such a thing but I ignored that too.

"Tomoe, where did you pull that from? Eh? A gift? I did not get a thing though. I wonder if I appeal to him, he will give me something. Food would be nice, yeah, Udon would be wonderful, but Udon is not bad either!" Musashi-san exclaimed full of vigor.

Aren't both options the same?

"...If you play around too much with him, he will not miss his chance to catch you." Tomoe-san advised in a sage tone... without moving her eyes from the console I gave her.

Oi!

"Hahaha, you are so funny. I won't let myself be caught so easily. I was known as Musashi Swift-feet back in my childhood. I can run faster than him." Musashi-san boasted.

"...You are hopeless." Tomoe-san lamented.

Musashi-san is quite pure huh.

"Onee, ahem, Onii-sama, why are you covering my ears?" Alice-chan commented.

"Too many idiots, you must not learn from them." Art said.

No comment there.

"Shiki-sama, eh, is the treatment over?" Marion-san timidly asked.

Right, I am still holding her hand. I finished when I started to pay attention to the detective duo but I kind of forgot to release her hands.

With her hand free, the girl blinked as she moved her arm, which was already healed and movable (since I removed Shirone-chan's 'master-piece').

She immediately bowed.

"Thank you very much for your kindness." Marion-san said.

What a serious child.

"Don't sweat the small details." I shook my head, however, I soon noticed several vehicles parked nearby.

The drivers were directing their eyes our ways.

"Are they his enemies? Should I smash them?" Akiko muttered in a low tone.

That's dangerous, girl. She was silent until now, but this gal kept her distance from anyone else other than Tomoe-san and me. She was even standing a few steps behind me. I am glad that she recovered enough to stand up on her own, but her scary mutters are no joke.

"...what are those people doing there?" I asked.

I hope the twins pick up Shion-san quickly. I don't think I can handle this many problem children on my own.

"Ah, my apologies. I was about to inform you of that. They are waiting to drive us to the Inn I reserved. I thought that Shiki-sama and his companions would be weary after all they went through so I prepared lodgings to spend the night." Marion-san said something outrageous like it was nothing strange.

This child did what?

"Considering several options, I thought that a relaxing warm bath would be the best to wash away your fatigue, Shiki-sama." Marion-san continued. "That is why, please follow after me. This maid, Marion, might be lacking in experience but she hopes you will enjoy it."

Gesturing me to follow after her, Marion-san walked away.

-Flashback ends

The Inn was rather far so I had enough time to recall everything in a detailed manner. However, I still think that it is nonsense.

Was that girl that wealthy in the canon? It was never mentioned.

Either way, this is quite a problem. The female camp should be ok, but... I am worried about the problem children, Akiko, she is not going to cause a ruckus, right? Not to mention, Art's little secret, can it be kept? That child won't enter fully dressed, probably.

...

...

...

"What do you mean with 'You cannot enter in the men's side'!? Nora-nya is going there, why do you stop me-nya!?" Kuroka raised her voice. "My place is at his side-nya, right, Shirone-nya?"

I forgot that this problem child might be another trouble maker.

The smaller one that is on the way to becoming one, she is vehemently nodding.

Well, I will not interfere and turn a blind eye. We got offered a bath as soon as we arrived and I am honestly quite happy about that. I want to get rid of the sweat and blood covering me.

"Because you are a girl and he is a boy, you cannot bath together, period. Stop causing a ruckus and follow the rest obediently." Suzaku, who joined us after arranging everything on her side, muttered.

You can do it, Suzaku.

3rd Person POV

Having been divided, the group took one side with Nora and Art, while the rest of the group went to the other side. The bath was divided by a tall bamboo wall, making it one open-air bath is they took it down. Which certain cat-eared girl considered but could not archive under the watch of Suzaku, who would never permit it, and Shion who was told to maintain the order by Nora.

"Gununu, Nora-nya has left me again-nya." Kuroka bitterly groaned.

Soaking in the bath, everyone was relaxing in their own way. Some were playing around in the water, such as the twins who were competing with each other to see who could remain more time underwater. Some took the hot bath as a relaxing time, such a Shion and Tomoe who hit off unexpectedly well. Marion and Shirone who were on friendly terms were washing each other's hair before entering the bath, with Alice who found Shirone's company fun to have around, along with the group of catgirls who were playing around with the soap and shampoo, and there was even one flooring on the water with a blissful expression, Shizuku had a smile on her face as she aimlessly floated. However, like Kuroka, some threw glances at the bamboo wall dividing the bath, and those were Akiko who was taking her distance from everyone else, Suzaku who sneakily glanced that way before blushing, and Musashi who had a pondering face as she stared that way.

Feeling that she might get some strange looks, Suzaku decided to distract herself, and noticing the pondering expression that the other girl had, she got curious.

"Eh, is there a problem? You seem to have been staring at the wall for quite some time." Suzaku asked.

It was obvious that she left out the part where she was doing something similar.

Her question brought Musashi out of her stupor.

"Hahaha, sorry. I was too focused on my thoughts." Musashi scratched her cheek.

Suzaku was even more curious so she pushed her question again.

"Well, you have been glancing that way since a while ago, and I was wondering if there was a problem." Suzaku inquired.

The other party hesitated before speaking.

"No, well... you see... It might be just me but..." Musashi got closer and spoke in a lower tone. "Isn't Art a bit suspicious?"

Glancing from one side to another, Musashi tried to keep it between Suzaku and her. Nonetheless, her luck was not good enough because a sulky Kuroka happened to overhear her thanks to the catgirl's sensible hearing.

"Suspicious...? Well, he does wear a mask, and only Nora saw his face. Putting aside his hooded appearance, and his background... I guess he is a regular guy." Suzaku spoke in an uncertain tone.

Shaking her head, Musashi also raised her finger and shook it left and right.

"Certainly, he can't be more suspicious. However, I did not mean that." Musashi said. "It might be just me, but... he is strange. I have seen a mask like that before, and it is used as a tool to hide your voice. Besides, Nora and he were reluctant to bath together."

Tilting her head, Suzaku was not completely sure what the topic was about, but she felt that something was not quite right.

"You know, my fetish- I mean, my sharp senses are telling me that 'he' is not what we believe." Musashi muttered. "I could be wrong, but what if... what if Art was hiding something, and that something is..."

Leaving the rest of her words unsaid, Musashi gulped.

"No, you don't mean... Art is a..." Suzaku covered her mouth in surprise.

"Girl-nya! No fair, that Art is bathing with Nora-nya! Why can't it be me-nya?" Kuroka suddenly said.

Getting between the two chatting girls, the catgirl complained.

"Wait just a moment, I am not completely sure yet!" Musashi hastily tried to appease the girl.

However, Kuroka was getting ready to leave the bath. A hand grabbed hers, stopping Kuroka in place.

"Don't stop me-nya. Yours might be big now, but mine will catch up in no time." Kuroka complained about an unrelated matter as she stared at Suzaku.

"No... I don't know what you are trying to say. However, I think it is improper that a boy and a girl bathe together if they are not... if... if they are not a couple!" Suzaku stuttered her words at the end.

Understanding what the other girl's motives were, Kuroka thought that it would be easier to hoodwink- no, to entice- no, to convince the red-eyed girl. Musashi who was looking at them could read them like an open book, but she did not stop them because she was curious... and the way things were developing was amusing.

"You-nya! I can tell you are friends with Nora-nya! It is time to help him-nya! A bad woman is taking advantage of him-nya." Kuroka said.

Perhaps it was the heat of the bath, or perhaps she was just tired, but Suzaku was in a state that was easy to influence (no one was aware of it), and adding her feelings of friendship (she believes so) and camaraderie, Suzaku thought it was her job to lend a hand to the boy so she felt that Kuroka's words were correct and there was nothing strange.

Covering her face with her hands, even Musashi found that strange and she thought Suzaku would stop Kuroka in her tracks. In fact, their conversation had attracted quite a bit of attention and most of the people in the bath were curiously staring at them.

"You are right! As his friend, this Suzaku must make sure that he is safe and nothing wrong is happening." Suzaku spoke full of conviction.

Kuroka smiled mischievously for a moment but she hid it right away, since showing that smile would make her suspicious.

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"Let's go-nya. Let us bring salvation to that poor cat-nya." Kuroka made a compassionate expression as she extended her hand.

Immediately, Suzaku grabbed that hand and both shook hands with a smile on their faces.

Musashi sweatdropped but she decided to not interfere.

Thanks to the last words, the peeping- no, the attentive people in the bath got the gist of what was going to happen, so they followed Kuroka and Suzaku who left after wrapping a towel around their bodies. Of course, it was the whole group minus Shion who took longer to leave.

"He did say to keep them from causing a ruckus in the bath... since they left the bath, it should be ok, right?" Shion muttered as she wrapped with a towel. "This should be amusing so I better hurry."

...

...

...

With hurried steps, Shion caught with the group of girls who were standing inside the men's bath.

There was complete silence, and Shion understood what caused it when she got closer.

Lying on the floor was Nora, his towel was nowhere to be seen so he was in his birthday suit. Some of the girls were covering their faces, although some of those were peeking even like that. However, many were staring boldly, one was even drooling. However, Nora's nudeness was not what caused the silence.

In a rather compromising position, a girl was straddling the boy. Her body had already started to develop so she had enough curves in the right places to be called a lady, basically a slender body with soft skin. Her golden blonde hair was cut short, reaching the shoulders, but it was shiny, almost like it was sprinkled gold dust. Her beauty was close to that of a doll, but there was an aspect that made her appearance regrettable and evoked pity. Her eyes, the green eyes that would've complemented her beauty lacked the usual light you see normally in a regular person, no, her face also had something distinct, the area around her eyes had burn scars.

The young girl blinked and a little sweat could be seen running down her face, she looked a bit nervous despite trying to keep a calm expression.

Such a situation left everyone speechless, no matter if it was her gender reveal or what laid below the mask, although for some, her current position might be more important.

Shion calmly analyzed everything around her and found a soap lying close to them, and given how dangerous is for someone to step on one, the result would be quite obvious. Knowing how meddlesome Nora can be, Shion deduced that he got in the way of the girl's fall. She could contribute it as a simple mistake or accident, but the state of her eyes opens a new possibility and that is quite simple. Art has problems seeing, or she could even be blind. Perhaps the boy felt pity and he tried to save her but ended up in that position. That said, the timing was truly the worst, Shion could bet her secret stash of Nora's candies that the boy never expected such a thing.

Wondering how he planned to get out of this one, Shion stared at the boy. He looked at a loss, but it was in a split second that his lips curled into a smile before he instantly changed his expression. It was an amazing display, Shion would like to praise the speed at which he changed gears. His expressions turned into a shy one and he added a slightly trembling to his body, with his ears lowered.

"...please be gentle." Nora muttered in a low tone as he turned his head to one side.

Shion had to do her best to cover her mouth or she would've started to laugh right there. Knowing the truth, she knows that he was playing around. But the rest of the girls were not on the same page. Quite a good number of precocious ones blushed, but some were not amused. Kuroka and Suzaku were making expressionless faces as they stared at Art.

"Since the moment I met you, I know we wouldn't get along." Suzaku started to walk forward.

"I will protect Nora-nya." Kuroka followed after her.

Art quickly stood up but the floor was slippery and she let her body fall over Nora again. She was now lying on top of the boy.

"This is a misunderstanding... Kuh, damn you, Nora." Art cursed when she noticed that the girls did not stop.

Hastily standing up, she ended rubbing her body on Nora more than necessary, making the angry girls even angrier.

Managing to stand up, Art ran away and she was chased by Kuroka and Suzaku. However, they did not last long until they all slipped.

"That is why you shouldn't run in the bath, it is common sense." Nora nonchalantly stood up.

Shaking his head, he picked his towel and wrapped himself on it.

"Now then, how do I fix this?" Nora muttered before shrugging his shoulders.

Shion had the urge to scold him because he caused the ruckus, but she lost all energy to do so. It was not her problem anyway.

Part 4

MC's POV

It took quite a bit of time to calm down Kuroka and Suzaku, they were very angry at Art. Well, it is about time she introduced herself. The cat is out of the bag already so there is no point in hiding it anymore.

"The name is Artoria, for several reasons I had to hide my face and gender. I apologize for all the trouble I caused." Artoria bluntly said.

It is a rude way to apologize, but this is more than I expected. It was worth bribing- I mean, convince Alice-chan to resolve this peacefully. The big sis listens to the lil sis huh.

Nonetheless, Suzaku who was receiving those words was not exactly happy despite Artoria's efforts.

Currently, only Suzaku, Artoria, Kuroka-chan and I were talking on our own. The rest went to eat, while some were taken to bed.

Marion told me to visit her later since got something important to tell me so I am was hoping to end this problem soon.

"You... *Sigh* never mind, I was too rash with my action as well." Suzaku spoke. "Wait, your appearance... a pair of girls, Alice... Artoria, ah!"

Suzaku gasped but soon quietened down.

Artoria started to look tense as well. I noticed how a golden aura was forming on her hand. It was not hard to do so since we were all sitting on seiza in this room. That said, Kuroka-chan was clinging onto me.

"Nora-nya, you smell nice-nya~" Kuroka-chan muttered as she sniffed my body.

Aren't you a cat? You are acting like a dog now.

"Are you planning to hand us over?" Artoria broke the silence.

Hmmm, that would be-

"No, I won't." Suzaku shook her head. "Nora wouldn't like me anymore if I did that. Not to mention, I don't blindly believe what the church said about you."

I am a bit lost, so I better check about this at a later date. Also, Suzaku, could please not phrase it that way? I am being glared at by Kuroka-chan.

"Punishment-nya!" Kuroka-chan bit me.

Ouch, that hurt. What sharp teeth... no, fangs?

"You are very kind. Are you ok? You hated me, right?" Artoria coldly asked.

Her voice now the mask is off is pleasing to the ears... if she is not being cold.

"I dislike you, but I won't let my personal feelings affect my beliefs. You are righteous and tried to fight for your family. For me, it is enough." Suzaku muttered. "I almost lost people who I was really close with, and by a miracle, they were saved. There is no way I could cause the pain that almost befell on me to someone like you."

Please don't stare at me with those eyes and that sweet smile, it is embarrassing and Kuroka-chan is- ah? She is not biting, no, she is licking me?

Lowering my sight, I noticed a feral Kuroka-chan licking my hand. In 5 or 6 years this would be quite erotic but now it just feels strange.

"Sweet-nya *lick*" Kuroka-chan shamelessly continued despite my intents to push her away.

"...your Savior was him? The guy being kicked by a little girl?" Artoria had an amused expression.

Suzaku sweet dropped and got closer to help me out.

Nevertheless, after a dual effort, a drunk Kuroka-chan was what we got.

"Nyahaha! There are two Nora-nya! Pamper me-nya!" Kuroka-chan laughed.

What the heck?

"I am impressed, you even got that girl drunk without us noticing. Although I doubt she would even resist in her normal state, I have to applause your foresight to leave her at your mercy." Artoria found my situation funny.

"You took advantage of me in the bath! Don't think I forgot where you put your hands first." I dropped that.

Suzaku instantly turned to Artoria for an explanation.

"So you did take advantage of Nora huh. A child younger than you..." Suzaku angrily went after Artoria.

"Damn you, Nora!" Artoria complained.

And so, a fight broke out.

In the meantime, I tried to figure out how Kuroka-chan got drunk.

...

...

...

"She got drunk because she was liking you?" Artoria asked in a disheveled appearance.

The kimonos that the Inn provided were comfy and had a simple design so everyone wore one, Artoria and Alice-chan had their problems wearing them but Marion-san took care of it. That said, her appearance was because she and Suzaku were wrestling since I told them to keep things peaceful.

"I took off this bracelet during the bath so my demonic powers went a bit out of control." I explained.

It had already turned water into wine before, and now my sweat had the same flavor. I might have to take a bath again.

"Is it really like that? I don't recall hearing about such a special ability among devils." Suzaku stared at my hand with a dangerous glint in her eyes.

Easy there.

"Sorry for not having any cool power." I shrugged my shoulders.

Well, if I had something like the power of destruction it would be a pain in the ass. A lone youkai having devil powers of such a bloodline? I would get killed or get involved in troublesome stuff such as fights for power between that family.

"Ah, no. I did not mean it like that... After all, Nora..." Suzaku but her lips.

So she had done her research on me. I don't know how to feel about it. That said, I smell trouble. That information should've been sealed or so I heard, if she managed to learn about it, there might be more people knowing about me.

"Don't mind it, it was not intended to make you feel bad. It is normal to expect a special superpower emerging from your body after all that." I patted the girl.

Part of me felt a bit mischievous so I put my hand in front of Suzaku.

"Would you like to test?" I asked with a mischievous smile.

The girl turned red, and when I thought she would scold me... she pulled my arm and put my index finger in her mouth.

"Well, I cannot be completely certain what happened but that sure is a lewd sound, should I leave you alone?" Artoria said.

I don't have time for your nonsense, although the lewd part is accurate. Suzaku licked my finger for a bit more while she gave me a timid look. She looked embarrassed, and she would probably stop if I spoke, but before I could do so, the girl read my expression and pulled back. Licking her lips after her actions, she looked satisfied.

"...sweet." Suzaku mischievously smiled.

Is the Himejima bloodline lewd? Akeno-chan will turn out the same as her if it goes like in the Canon. What to do? Akeno-chan is like this gal here, with an overly positive opinion of me. If their feelings continue, will I be able to resist? Ah, Yasaka-san, I will face many hardships, please lend me your lap more often so I can resist the temptations.

"...what? You want me to do the same?" Artoria gave me an unamused look.

"Nope, no need. I am cool." I immediately turned down her request.

"Despite crossdressing as a guy, I am still a maiden... so it kind of pisses me off your immediate rejection." Artoria complained. "Well, not like I would do it. If you guys are not going to ask anything else, I will leave."

Standing up, she kept walking until she was almost out of the run before stopping and turning back.

"...thank you for all you did." Artoria left those words before leaving.

Even though Suzaku was dangerous eyeing my hand, she spoke.

"She is surprisingly polite." Suzaku commented.

"She is like a regular person. Be good and you are going to be treated well. I feel like she lives like that, although... she might've been receiving hostilities on a regular basis so she is like a feral cat." I shrugged my shoulders.

"Fufu, she must be a bigger cat than you then." Suzaku giggled. "Do you think she will get attached to someone like cats do?"

"Who knows, cats are whimsical so they can't be completely tamed." I muttered as I stood up.

I guess I need to meet Marion-san.

"Ara ara, is that so?" Suzaku spoke in a cheerful tone. "I might have a tough road ahead."

Her last words were said in a whisper but I clearly heard them. Right now, I decided to not say anything back, despite having an idea what she meant, I decided to do this properly. I will wait until she decides to speak her mind.

...

...

...

What a headache, Marion-san sure handed me something troublesome.

I had even begun explaining that topic to Suzaku before. The four fiends project is a large-scale plan where the rejected people of the 5 Clans try to oppose the Clans using four sacred gears housing the 'evil' equivalent to the four auspicious beasts. Planning to overthrow those who forsake them, they are willing to do many low-handed actions.

The info I told Suzaku did not involve the four Sacred Gear users, however, it is a matter of time before they learn of it.

Gununu, the most troublesome thing is the traitor among Suzaku's people. Even if I try to think positively and consider that person a spy that Suzaku planted, it is not possible. The actions of that person do fit that profile.

This was never mentioned in the Canon so I can't be certain how Suzaku handled it, but the knowledge about such a thing would be helpful for her.

"Oya? If it isn't the boy. That is some complicated face you are making." Musashi's voice pulled me out of my musings.

This was a traditional Inn so they had a small garden, I was taking my time to think here while I gazed at the moon.

"Oh? If it isn't the beautiful detective Musashi. What brings you here?" I said.

The girl blushed in response even as she sat beside me.

"Hahaha, please don't tease me." Musashi scratched her cheek.

"It is an amazing title to use, but you are not lying. There is no need to feel embarrassed." I shrugged my shoulders. "So, what are you doing here? Can't sleep?"

"Jeez, you have a pretty sweet tongue. Thanks for that." Musashi happily said. "You are right, but that is not the only reason, actually, I was looking for you."

This is probably-

"Tomoe and I split to look for you, so I guess I was lucky." Musashi giggled. "We have to go, sorry, you even made arrangements for us to stay and we are leaving like that."

So they are going, it feels kind of lonely but it was bound to happen.

"I don't mind, you guys had been a great help so preparing something like this was the least we could do... although I did not do it." I stuck my tongue out. "Thanks for your help, we managed to get out of that one alive because of you guys."

I wish I could express my thanks better, since I had their help I got better clues of Kaa-san's fate.

"Don't sweat it, we just happened to be investigating a mystery." Musashi patted my head. "You are the one I am thankful for, you kept my best friend safe."

Her appearance as she smiled and the moonlight illuminated her face was breathtaking.

Why is everyone from this world either handsome or beautiful? I wish I had a bit of that.

"She is my friend as well so that much is obvious, if you don't mind, you too." I muttered.

I feel like hiding in a hole, why are those words so embarrassing? I did not get a reply and instead I was hugged. Musashi, as expected you are quite-

"Next time, I will invite you to eat Udon, consider that my treat, I know of many places you will surely like." Musashi spoke.

While I am enjoying my position, even as a supernatural creature I need air to live.

It was a few minutes later that this affectionate girl released me, I swear I saw Hades playing golf in the Underworld, and the skeleton was on a roll.

...

...

...

After that, Tomoe was a bit more composed- or not, she was not as exaggerated as Musashi but she also hugged me as she cried something about being friends despite the distance. I felt bad so I exchanged numbers with both (since Musashi had a lonely appearance when I did it only with Tomoe).

3rd Person POV

A pair of girls that seemed to be in middle school were walking around a lonely street. They would sometimes find themselves stared at by suspicious men, but those men would run away immediately after being glared at by them. Musashi and Tomoe had a different air to them whenever someone lustfully stared at them, they cold glared back and released their killing intent to scare anyone.

"Did you call her already?" Musashi asked.

"I did, you can tell that she is watching us, right?" Tomoe smiled wryly.

"She is not being subtle so she most likely is waiting for us to go to a more desolate area." Musashi commented.

Nodding at that, Tomoe glanced at the area she felt a stare. Deep into a back alley, there was a small opening in space, several eyes could be seen if you paid careful attention.

...

...

...

In a desolate park, Musashi and Tomoe stopped after confirming they were alone. As soon as they did, just in front of them, the space seemed to split into an oval shape.

"You might come in, the mistress is waiting for you."

"Nya! Quickly-nya!"

A pair of voices that the girls could recognize called them so they followed those words and walked in.

It took but an instant for their surroundings to change, from the desolate park to a wide high-class Japanese-styled room. In the center of the room, a sofa was laid and a figure lazily had her body resting there. Another pair of figures were standing at each side of the sofa, and they seemed to be guarding who was lying there.

Musashi and Tomoe gulped upon feeling the aura of the three figures.

"Yukari-sama, I will take that 'thing' to another place. Chen, you will stay here and protect Yukari-sama if the needs arise, understood?"

One of the figures spoke, she was a young-looking woman in her twenties with golden eyes, short blonde hair, and nine foxtails. She wears a white dress with purple cuffs and collar, an indigo tabard with a white print, white and blue footwear, and a light pink two-tailed hat with many amulets that hide her fox ears. Having a tall figure, close to 1,80 cm, and a curvy figure, she would surely make men take a second glance at her if she walked on any street, that is if she did not have such an unapproachable aura.

"Yes~ Ran-sama! I will make sure of it-nya."

The one who replied to the fox-eared one was someone with a similar figure, however, this one had dark brown eyes, brown hair, and was wearing a green mob cap. She had black cat ears, with a gold earring in the left one, and four tails. Her dress was red with a white bow on the collar, with gold trimming, and light pink frills at the bottom. The dress had light pink sleeves. She was wearing socks and had long hot pink fingernails. One head shorter than the first figure, but she also had a buxom body.

Nodding in response to what Chen said, Ran bowed to her mistress once before moving to one corner of the room and dragging a cage. Inside, an ominous and creepy black splatter was changing shapes as it crashed against the cage.

A little disgusted, Tomoe and Musashi focused on the figure lying on the sofa.

With a perfect figure, the person lying on the sofa did not look older than twenty. She had long blonde hair and deep purple eyes. She was wearing a deep purple dress, a pale pink mob cap with a thin red ribbon, and smaller ribbons tied liberally on her accessories and the tips of her hair. A pink parasol was lying on the ground in front of her, but the young-looking woman did not seem to mind. She had directed her eyes at Musashi and Tomoe.

"...You girls did a good job, although you left a loose end." The woman, Yukari, spoke as she pointed at the cage that Ran was dragging. "If I hadn't been keeping an eye on you, it could have escaped and caused quite the ruckus."

Yukari seemed to be chiding the two, but she never raised her voice. In her hands, she was holding a strange stone with symbols that gave off an eerie aura.

"They also would've escaped if I did not steal this either." Yukari commented as she raised the stone.

Musashi and Tomoe recalled that the cultists never escaped using the magic circle because a catalyst was missing.

"That said, your objective would've been accomplished even if you had failed at stopping them." Yukari smiled. "...how is it? Did you met him?"

Tomoe and Musashi shared a look.

"Yukari-sama, wasn't Our goal to eradicate the cultists? We were also supposed to recover the seeds they use to transform." Tomoe timidly asked.

"...I don't recall ever saying that, I just told you to go to that school and wait until a ruckus happened. And even if I did tell you that, did you bring the seeds?" Yukari asked.

Lowering their heads, they didn't answer.

"Thought so, although you do not need to worry. He took them while you were distracted after all." Yukari absentmindedly said.

For a moment, she seemed distracted and had her eyes closed.

"...Yukari-sama, you asked before if we met him, you meant Shiki-san? Wait, he took them? Shiki-san did!? That is no good, please send us there to recover those. He might do something he will regret later, yes. Let this Tomoe talk to him, he is a good kid, so allow me to stop him before he is disposed of." Tomoe hastily spoke.

She tried to get closer but Chen smiled and a sudden pressure difficult to stand made her stop in her tracks.

"Please stay there-nya." Chen said.

Musashi pulled Tomoe backward and the pressure disappeared like it was a lie.

"...hmmm, as expected, whenever I try to peek at him at a close distance he detects me. Before the time comes, I should watch over him from a long distance. He has not discovered me, but it wouldn't take long. *Sigh*" Yukari opened her eyes. "Ah, about those. Don't worry, our leader orders are to never touch even one hair of him or else, hehe. Well, you get the idea. I am not personally interested in doing that either so rest assured."

Tomoe sighed in relief at that.

"Eh, sorry for this stupid question but... who is that boy? So far, those who were related to the cult were targets of subjugation. Sometimes we were sent to apprehend them, but we never allowed targets to move freely with those in hand." Musashi asked.

"Fufu, he is just a regular cat, I think you will hear him say that to you if you ask him." Yukari giggled. "Before you ask, no, I am not familiar with 'the boy'."

Musashi scratched her head and swallowed her question. She felt that there was something strange in the way Yukari spoke, but she pushed that on the back of her mind. She had many questions but Musashi was too tired to start asking, it had never been her forte so she was more than glad to leave that to another day.

"I have an idea of what happened, but do give me further details." Yukari spoke.

Musashi thought that she would be able to leave already, but it seemed that she still had work to do. Perhaps she should've stayed at the Inn for the night.

"Tomoe thinks that perhaps we should've stayed the night at the Inn." Tomoe commented with a wry smile.

Musashi smiled wryly as well, her friend also had the same idea as she did. However, they had duties to-

"Ara? I wouldn't have minded if you had done so. As long as you act friendly to him, our leader will be quite forgiving. So I was told to let you act freely if that was the case." Yukari muttered.

She made it seem like she had just remembered but the mischievous smile on her face was not hidden in the slightest.

Tomoe and Musashi had one thought... that this woman had done it on purpose.

Part 5

MC's POV

Lightly tapping my pouch, I thought back about my reckless idea of taking those things that man used to transform his people.

I slept like a log and it was a new day, Suzaku had left in a hurry since she had stuff to do. The poor girl had fallen asleep here and had to leave quickly in the morning, she did not originally plan to sleep here but simply take a bath and have dinner. Her earnest actions to solve issues were praiseworthy, however, I think she needs to rest some more. Next time we met, I will have to lecture her a bit about it.

With a new day, it was time to go back home. I had to talk to Yasaka-san about what I found, and... about what happened before.

Kuroka-chan woke up perfectly fine despite her drunkenness yesterday which made me wonder if she was good at drinking or not.

Funny thing, the group of girls tagged alone even as we rode the train. Those catgirls were probably following Kuroka-chan to play around so I did not see any harm. Aside from them, Artoria, Alice-chan, and Akiko were part of the group. Akiko was more than delighted to follow me, and I managed to convince Alice-chan, so that was as good as convincing Artoria.

Marion-san had a grim look as we got closer to our destination and I had an idea why. I reassured her during the travel, or so I had in mind, but I was still not good with trains so I only sat in a nervous state as I tapped my pouch, Kuroka-chan and Shirone-chan kept me company so it was not too bad. These machines are dangerous and I was waiting for the day I could learn teleportation magic.

...

...

...

I left everyone at the house I had bought, and Marion-san took care of our guests. Shion-san left to attend her store while the twins were going to report to their father they were home. I planned to show my appreciation at a later date since they basically escaped before I said my thanks again. I expected that from the twins but Shion-san was rather playful herself.

It was now time to talk to Yasaka-san.

...

...

...

As soon as I put a foot in Yasaka-san's workplace, Asamiya-san came to receive me and guide me to the kitsune I loved. Her glare was painful, but she kept her silence as she led me around.

It was not until we're close to Yasaka-san's office that she directed some words at me.

"Despite her looks, Yasaka-sama can be childish at heart, she was lonely and got hurt for what happened. Please, do keep that in mind." Asamiya-san said.

I could only smile wryly at her concern.

My actions bring a result, and our discussion from before was not one I would like to repeat.

...

...

...

When I entered, I saw a yellow blur and got myself caught in the most comfortable of the places, Yasaka-san's embrace.

"Do you have any idea how worried I was?" Yasaka-san asked.

I could not see her face since mine was planted in a wonderful place, but I could tell that her concern was genuine.

"To run away as soon as that happened, I did not know what to do. You know, I don't say it often, but I care about you a lot." Yasaka-san continued. "Why do you act so recklessly? *Sigh* No, that is what I wanted to say. That is not what I should be saying. Welcome back, Nora-kun."

That was a sneak attack, I expected you to scold me and you threw a curveball like that. I can't say I am not happy, I must be a simple cat.

"Hmm, I am back." I replied.

For a while, we remained like that.

...

...

...

Things did not last since Asamiya-san interrupted us to bring us some tea. I was thankful for the tea, but I wouldn't have minded if she took like one, no, two days more before interrupting us.

I even extended my arms to Yasaka-san while praying she would continue the hug, but she only stuck out her tongue out at me. Not all was a loss since when I lowered my head in defeat she bestowed me with a kiss on my forehead. I will say this again, I am a simple cat.

...

...

...

"Did you really confirm all that?" Yasaka-san asked.

With furrowed eyebrows, the kitsune had a difficult expression on her face.

"It is the best clue I have gotten, it is worth investigating. That said, I spoke a lot about it with Suzaku and she told me that there was not much she could offer me about them in the first place. However, the fact they had a log about Kaa-san makes them people of interest." I muttered.

Honestly, I could not hold myself back and spoke about what I found. The fastest Yasaka-san hears about it, the swifter she will take countermeasures.

"I am not sure I heard about them before. They-" Yasaka-san but her lips and did not continue her words.

Struggling for a moment, she stared at my eyes until she sighed. Raising her hand, the blonde-haired beauty started writing several symbols in the air, her actions were followed by a transparent bubble that expanded and as soon as covered the room, the sound from outside was gone. It was similar to what Suzaku used before.

"I can't tell you too many details since it would cause trouble for you." Yasaka-san spoke in a serious voice. "I focus mostly on keeping the safety of Youkais and maintaining order in Urakyoto, we also have friendly relationships with different forces in Japan. However, our jurisdiction is mostly centered in Kyoto and the western areas. That said, there is so much we can do given our limited staff and forces so there are bound to be holes in our system."

That is to be expected. Even in my last world where there were no supernatural trouble makers, the police and other order maintaining forces had trouble keeping everything in perfect peace.

"However, we are supported by an anonymous group. No, that is not quite right. If I had not learned of their existence through a mistake on their part, they would've remained hidden until now. Nonetheless, I learned about them and they send sometimes a representative to talk with me, offer information, or simply one-sidely leaving troublesome requests." Yasaka-san said with a slightly annoyed expression. "They always ask for stuff like 'we will probably destroy that building so could you handle the aftermath?' or 'sorry, I cut a few cars that bothered me, could you take care of it?'"

I remained silent, I think that butting in is not wise.

"The worst is... the worst is that they actually send me monetary remuneration of superior value to what it is needed to fix. I can't even complain, you know?" Yasaka-san complained. "The people they sent to talk to me are all unique individuals. *Sigh* Nora-kun is actually a normal kid if I compare you to them."

Could you please not diss me like that? For a while now I have noticed that everyone has some strange opinions about me.

"Not long ago, that woman walked in unannounced again, she just appeared to say hi." Yasaka-san pinched the bridge of her nose.

This ranting could take a while, well, I get to see a new side of the one I like so it is not that bad.

...

...

...

"Sorry, my ranting took longer than I anticipated." Yasaka-san apologetically said.

I am not sure who is that woman that Yasaka-san described but she seems to be someone amazing to push Yasaka-san to became like that.

"We delayed the topic, but I guess the reason you originally came to see me is that you brought new girls home. I heard they were quite the number, all cute girls." Yasaka-san muttered in a slightly sullen tone.

Well, I did want to eventually talk about that but-

"You made one big mistake, and that is to misjudge my presence here. I came here to tell you two very important things." I said as I stood up. "One is non-other than telling you about Kaa-san's info."

I walked until I was in front of Yasaka-san who was sitting in seiza on the floor. The tatami mat is softer so sitting like this is not unusual.

"The second one, it isn't about those girls, but you." I muttered and took her hands. "I am sorry, I impulsively acted the other day. You are one of the people who always have my well-being in her mind. You are just trying to protect me, right? I know, and despite knowing, I still acted like that. Honestly, words can be cheap sometimes. Even if I tell you all this, it will just sound like the babbling of a kid... Yeah, well, I know what you had in mind there, but I can't express myself very well."

What I saw was a surprise Yasaka-san.

"Geez, could you not look like that? Is it that strange what I said? I just wanted to apologize for acting like an idiot. I didn't want you to act like the bad guy when you are one of the kindest people I know." I continued. "For me, the kind Yasaka-san wouldn't treat an innocent girl like that. Yeah, I know that Zekram had his reasons to send her, however, I don't think it is a reason to be angry at someone doing their job. She is earnest so please be the reasonable Yasaka-san."

"Nora-kun, when you are talking about a woman, do not mention another woman's name." Yasaka-san gently (?) chided me. "What to do, you got me there. I wanted to say the same thing to you...that I acted unreasonably."

She pulled me and made me sit on her lap.

"I might've acted a bit too overprotective and unconsciously treated her with hostility. It is a bit embarrassing that I lost my composture back then. Since that time, I thought about it a lot and concluded that I can't force you to throw her out. However, she will be watched over by my people, alright? I cannot make further concessions with your safety at risk. You cannot leave her alone in Saya's house either." Yasaka-san spoke. "If possible, and this is a request since that house is yours... I don't want you to bring strangers there."

That is... reasonable.

"Alright, I will do as you say... I had even prepared lodging for her in Kyoto just in case but it won't be necessary." I replied. "Don't worry, I will protect that place."

"I see, you were prepared. It makes me a bit mad that you planned that without telling me either but I will reluctantly let it go since I was being unreasonable before." Yasaka-san said in a sullen tone. "That leaves us with the parade of girls you brought."

I almost forgot.

"About that..." I began explaining.

...

...

...

"I will accept only under one condition, bring them to me. Regardless of what I think of them, I will offer those sisters a place to stay. They were good to you so it is the least I could do. That said, you are really something, the Ame-no-murakumo owner was found by you and now she followed you home. Nora-kun, you have to bring a girl home every time you leave, huh."

Yasaka-san was holding me in her embrace as I sat on her lap so I could not see her face, but I could tell that she was glaring at me.

"If only a certain someone married me, I wouldn't think of even leaving." I half-joked.

"You can joke all you want, however, I am worried about Kunou-chan's chances, at this rate, how many girls do you plan to marry? Those girls you brought, are they concubines? Then you should bring them, I must teach those girls that my daughter came first, she will be the main wife."

I almost choked, I was fairly certain that she was joking... although some parts were said in a serious tone.

"*Cough* No, no matter how you think about it, I was only talking about you, those girls, I do not even know their names. They are Kuroka-chan's friends, they came to hang out." I corrected the kitsune.

"Ara, you don't know?" Yasaka-san asked.

I have a bad feeling about it so I simply shook my head. I was half speechless, I did not shake my head because it was resting upon those heavenly treasures, certainly not.

"It happened about a hundred years ago, a male Nekomata was born, he was targeted by a group of catgirls, and it is said that they never gave up until they got married." Yasaka-san muttered something scary in an innocent tone.

No, no, no, no. That is scary, the poor guy could not escape, right? That was the point of the story.

"Unfortunately, he was sickly and died at a young age. His wives always took care of him, but he got worse even faster when he spent his time locked in his room. True story, yep." Yasaka-san said.

Rather than saying that he was sickly, didn't the Nekomatas lock him so they could... Nah, that is an exaggeration.

"He was just a Low-class, if his Ki reserves had been higher, his vitally wouldn't have run out." Yasaka-san spoke in a low tone.

Nope, I won't retort. No, Sir.

"...putting such a thing aside. I wanted to talk to you about something I want to do." I muttered.

"You want a mansion for your concubines, I can arrange that, but they must meet Kunou-chan first-" Yasaka-san said.

"I know that you are enjoying this, but to lease listen to me first." I exclaimed.

...

...

...

It took me a while, but the kitsune finally listened to me.

"It is your money, I will give you the freedom to use it as you wish. The worst case is if you waste it, but that could also become a good experience." Yasaka-san said. "I will explain the details to Asamiya-san she will take care it happens. Some of the things you asked will take a while to prepare so be patient."

Well, I plan to use my connection with my Kesaran-pasaran friend, to get a couple of properties for cheap. I will need a base of operations after all.

"Now then, it is about time." Yasaka-san stood up and carried me.

Despite her delicate looks, Yasaka-san used to practice with Kaa-san quite often so she is strong.

"Kunou-chan missed you so you will play with her for a while." Yasaka-san said in a tone that did not allow rejection.

Hmm, I do miss that little furball so why not?

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...

...

I must've had taken too much time to come back, my cat duo came to see me as I played with Kunou-chan alone since her beautiful mother left since something she needed to deal with personally came up.

"Come with Onee-chan! Here-nya!" Kuroka-chan called out.

My cute Kuroka-chan was trying to coax the smol kitsune to play with her, unfortunately, she was pretty comfortable on my lap. Kunou-chan even grabbed arms and crossed them in front of her. That was some easy-to-read wish, the girl wanted a hug. That said, whenever Kuroka-chan called her, she would vehemently shake her head.

"Onee-sama is truly clueless." Shirone-chan gave her sister a pitiful look. "Kunou-chan, I am usually the smallest, but I can be your Onee-chan. I have some candy here."

With a triumphant smile, Shirone took a candy from her pouch and put I in front of her. I could read the small label I had written on the wrapping saying Kuroka... huh?

"SHIRONE-NYA! That is mine! When did you take it-nya!?" Kuroka-chan angrily jumped on her sister.

The white cat hastily ate the candy.

"What candy are you speaking of?" Shirone-chan asked.

I must admit, that girl got guts to do that. However, she even forgot about the reason she pulled out the candy in the first place, Kunou-chan was left with her tiny hand stretched. I felt bad so I gave her one of the ones I brought as souvenirs and she happily ate it.

"Nya! Sneaky-nya! You became a bad kitty while I was gone-nya!" Kuroka-chan caught her Imouto.

The two started to fight (play) as they evaded each other.

Suddenly, Yasaka-san entered the room. She had her head lowered so her expression was not completely visible, although it did not seem to be a happy one.

"Congrats Nora-kun. It seems Saya-chan left a little bomb that she never told me about." Yasaka-san smiled (?).

"...I am not sure why that is something to be happy about though." I retorted.

"Fufu." Yasaka-san giggled. "You see, Saya-chan became friends with a famous valkyrie magician called Gondul, to the extend of being drinking friends. She is one of the people I considered to have as your magic teacher, and to my surprise, she finally replied to my messages after I had asked for her."

Gondul? I feel like that name is kind of familiar.

"You see, the funny thing happened after I told her that it was you who she would teach. Fufu, she suddenly started asking a bunch of questions about you, even wanting to see a picture of you. I provided all that information since I saw no harm to give that to Saya-chan's friend. However, she happened to remember something after pondering for a moment. Gondul went to look for something, leaving the communication spell working and she came back with a rather detailed document, signed by Saya-chan." Yasaka-san's smile started to twitch. "It seems like Saya-chan signed it, and it had a simple content. Saya-chan's descendant would marry one of Gondul's descendants."

Huh?

"Congratulations Nora-kun, you have a beautiful fiance. Gondul has a cute granddaughter and now you two are engaged. I am sure that you are curious about her." Yasaka-san pulled a photo from her cleavage and handed it to me.

I could only blink in confusion.

One look at the picture and I was even more speechless. A beautiful young girl with long, straight silver hair and aqua-colored eyes who appeared to be in her teens was what I saw. Her appearance, and the name Gondul's, this girl can't be anyone else but-

"She is called Rossweisse." Yasaka-san said. "Ah, next month you are supposed to go to meet her."

Kuroka-chan and Shirone-chan stopped playing around and were peeking at the photo, even Kunou-chan was doing the same thing.

"Nya!? She seems dangerous-nya!" Kuroka-chan muttered.

In a certain way, she is.

"A beautiful girl? What is a fiancee?" Shirone-chan asked.

You are too little to know.

"Aren't you glad?" Yasaka-san inquired with a smile that was not a smile.

No, don't look at me like that, it is all on Kaa-san. She wouldn't sign that in a regular state. Ah, drinking friends. Damn, she was drunk! Kaa-san! When did you plan to tell me such a thing? When I find you, I will have to scold you.

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Author's Notes

Finally closer to introducing the waifu Rose, she is a good girl and I hope to be able to write her well.

Many things happened in this volume, and plenty in this chapter such as Artoria's reveal. I tried to keep it as a simple crossdressing because it would be more amusing, and considering that you are running away, she considered that option to help her mislead her pursuers. As for her appearance, you can consider Artoria from type moon, she will look like Saber Lily or a bit older given her age (the one I plan to give her). I tried to be subtle with my hints about it, although it might've come to a surprise for some.

New characters, for those who never played touhou, they will not be aware of them, but they were Yukari Yakumo, Ran and Chen (although she will look like a maure version for something I will explain in future chapters). They are youkais and quite the strong ones at that

Any questions you have can be answered if you ask them, don't be afraid, I don't bite… really, I am pretty far and that makes me unable to do so.

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