"I acknowledge your small-minded cleverness, but to treat it as the talent to be a king's adviser, is that not boasting too far? Trust is the most important thing between a king and a knight. In this regard, I will prevent his sincere heart from being stolen by others."
Liliana was extremely calm. In a serious debate, Erica would have won, but the current development was unprecedented.
"If you say so, then show me your ability as the premier knight... How about the current issue about Lu Yinghua's arrival in Japan, what's your opinion?"
"Oh, you mean that matter of Cult Leader Luo Hao's direct disciple."
Liliana lightly nodded at Erica's playful question.
"Well, though it is an unsophisticated reaction, I think being on alert is the most crucial. There is a possibility that the demonic cult leader is planning some kind of commotion in Japan, and sent her disciple over."
"Yes, just like Marquis Voban. So being prepared is best."
Erica responded to Liliana's sudden unlikely suggestion.
"The likelihood of that is close to impossible. However, in the past six months, I've finally realized it. Campiones always light up every glowing ember around them into a fire disaster. Godou is this type, and so are Voban and Sir Salvatore. Cult Leader Luo Hao should be no exception."
"That is correct, they are all notorious for causing trouble for no reason."
The two knight's predictions were akin to delusions of persecution mania, and Godou simply dismissed them as impossible speculation.
By the way, please don't lump me with that group of people in such a matter-of-fact manner.
"Anyway, the point of contention lies on Cult Leader Luo Hao, whose appearance and personality are complete unknowns, as well as what kind of deities she had fought in the past. Erica, you once stayed in Hong Kong, please let me know if you have any information about her."
"Regarding information on the Cult Leader, those involved in Chinese circles are even more strict in guarding their secrets. It is rumored that cult believers are obliged to blind themselves if they see her person, and cut off their own ears if they hear her voice."
As the conversation progressed to this point, Yuri returned from her phone call.
"Godou-san, I really must thank you for this."
Yuri's sudden expression of thanks puzzled Godou, what on earth happened?
"The call just now was from Amakasu-san. Yesterday, Godou-san requested a temporary trial at Saitenguu, and the Kuhoudzuka family has already agreed."
"Uh, really? Didn't they say we had to wait?"
"Though there are no precedents, but it is the [King]'s request after all, so they can only accept. They told us we can go over to Nikkou any time as soon as we are ready."
Her head bowed respectfully, Yuri's excellent upbringing from early childhood was apparent to all, acting like a true Yamato Nadeshiko[38].
"For you to lend your power for the sake of my little sister Hikari, I am truly thankful. As the older sister, let me express my gratitude here."
"Gratitude is not necessary, I virtually did nothing."
"Of course, I will also thank Kaoru who did the actual negotiations, but first let me express my gratitude to Godou-san here."
Yuri replied with a calm and grateful smile. Due to her elegance and respectful attitude, it was hard to take offense. If Godou did not accept, he would feel like he was the unreasonable one. Smiling wryly, Godou nodded.
"So, Mariya Hikari's problem is solved now. I should say it is wonderful."
Liliana concluded.
Godou suddenly had a thought. The (supposed) leader of this group here should be Kusanagi Godou, while his next-in-command was Erica Blandelli. This has always been the distribution of roles.
Now that Liliana wants to squeeze in as his next-in-command, was it a good or bad idea after all?
"Right, Yuri, has the dates been set for the trial?"
Erica suddenly asked.
"Yes, this coming weekend happens to be a three day holiday, so that will be the time."
"Oh... I suppose Yuri will be going along?"
"Of course, since I am her older sister, and a Hime-Miko like her... Is there a problem?"
Erica's subtle question made Yuri reply in puzzlement.
"Then I have a suggestion. Yuri's sister is equivalent to being the younger sister of Godou -- as well as all of us here. Therefore, why not have everyone go along together?"
"What did you say?"
"Godou, with just the answer from the Committee, it doesn't mean your duties are over. You have to take full responsibility, and protect Hikari to the very end. If that child receives unfair treatment, what are you going to do?"
The [Diavolo Rosso]'s words were correct, but the corners of her lips showed a smile of anticipation, and her eyes flashed like a mischievous child.
"Actually I have some things I want to investigate, and there are famous sightseeing destinations and scenic spots in the surroundings of this temple. The timing is perfect, everyone, let's go for a visit."
Godou sighed. In the middle of her speech, he already discovered her motives.
Erica had made a very good point about taking full responsibility, causing him to recall what Sayanomiya Kaoru had mentioned. The divine monarch was definitely not a safe existence.
And though it was sealed, but what if there was a [Heretic God] --
Godou made his decision to travel to Nikkou.
Nikkou National Park's boundaries were very broad and not only included Tochigi Prefecture but also Gunma and Fukushima.
And speaking of Nikkou, of course there was Toushouguu, Futarasan Shrine, Rinnouji's Nikkou Mountain as well as the area around Okunikkou. Not to mention scenic spots like Nantaisan, Lake Chuuzenji, or Senjougahara.
Saitenguu was a shrine built in a corner of Nikkou Mountain.
Compared to the splendor of Toushouguu and Futarasan Shrine to the west, it was a quiet holy sanctum removed from the usual tourist destinations.
Within its confines, Kuhoudzuka Mikihiko was making a cellphone call while wearing shrine attire.
"Even Kusanagi-sama will be making his grand arrival? Of course we extend our utmost welcome. Right, yes, please pass along my greetings to Hikari-san..."
A young boy and girl were listening in beside him, they were Lu Yinghua and Asherah.
"How amazing, from that manner of speaking you really can't tell that he is being controlled by Sis."
"Of course, I am one who stands amongst the pinnacle of witches."
The girl answered the youth's praise with disinterest.
She stared at Kuhoudzuka Mikihiko like a puppet she had grown tired of playing.
"The only trouble is, not only is the miko who will be used as the key, but even Kusanagi Godou -- this country's [King] is coming, that presents a slight problem."
Lu Yinghua's ears not only heard Kuhoudzuka Mikihiko's voice, but even all the sounds on the other side of the phone. What a beautiful voice, slightly high pitched for a male, but a bit low for a female...
"Hmph, let him come if he dares. I was willing to take a gamble against John Pluto Smith. For a brat who hasn't even been a Campione for a year, it will be a piece of cake."
"I see, the reason Sis failed in Los Angeles, I finally understand now."
Lu Yinghua sneered at the evil-eyed witch in high battle spirits.
"...Damn you."
"Sis hasn't truly understood what troublesome existences these [Kings] are. It has nothing to do with experience for these people. At the time they usurped a god's authority, before they even became a Campione, they were already transcendent existences. Though Sis and I are both masters of our craft, even the weakest [King] will be far more powerful than us."
Lu Yinghua described the Campione with depressed eyes.
"They are not people who can be defeated by the likes of techniques, spells, strategies or traps. Even though my martial ability likely surpasses five of the seven [Kings], I dare not compete in a fronta
l confrontation. People like them always find a 'path to victory' no matter what kind of opponent they are facing. Whether you have exceptional talent, or a hundred years of training, everything is futile against them. That is why they are called kings."
The youth who had spent ten of his fourteen years of age with his master, explained gloomily.
"Letting kings fight it out is the best course of action. We just need to stick to our own duties."
"Then... Are you going to call for your master?"
The most vicious, the one who had reached the martial pinnacle, the Campione who sought defeat but never found it.
Lu Yinghua nodded.
"It is necessary. Tell her that if she doesn't show up, the plan will be obstructed. Persuade her with everything you got, and then respectfully welcome her grand arrival. After all, she has to come sooner or later for the sake of meeting the divine monarch. Earlier should be better than later... That is what I think..."
Recalling his master's unreasonable obstinacy, the vigorous youth sighed.
"Otherwise if we are met with failure, I can't imagine what kind of terrible punishment -- I don't even dare think about it. We might as well go ahead and invite my master who is usually too lazy to go out. It'd be more practical to just suffer a few heavy punches and be done with it..."
Towards the holy sanctum of the temple in the Far East, the actors were converging onto this stage.
It would take a few more days before they gathered in one place. Meanwhile, the signs of the brewing storm intensified.
Chapter 4 - Palace of the Divine Monarch's Throne
Part 1
The Mariya sisters, Yuri and Hikari, as well as their guardian Kusanagi Godou.
...Plus Erica Blandelli and Liliana Kranjcar who were following along for some reason.
Using a three-day long weekend in early October, the five of them planned a little trip to Nikkou. Rather than taking a train, it was more cost effective to go by car.
A certain participant's maid volunteered to drive, but Godou politely declined. Even though his life was already full of peril, there was no need to add to his unnecessary troubles.
So, how should the driver problem be resolved? After some consideration, Godou called a certain person.
'If you don't mind, let me assist you guys. I'll also prepare the car. No no, don't thank me. After all, I'd also like to investigate the inner secrets of the Kuhoudzuka family.'
Godou happily accepted the proposal, and on the afternoon of the first day, everyone gathered near the Kusanagi residence.
That day when everyone made their way towards Nikkou --
"Hey, Amakasu-san."
Barely one hour into the trip, Godou already regretted the decision that he clearly didn't think through well enough.
From the passenger seat, he inquired from the driver next to him.
"From Tokyo to Nikkou in Tochigi, I think we should take the Touhoku Expressway, right? That should be the fastest route, so why are we going by surface roads?"
"When travelling, the process before reaching the destination is also very important."
Holding the steering wheel, Amakasu Touma replied seriously.
"Listen carefully, this Nikkou Kaidou[39] has existed since ancient times and runs from Nihonbashi[40] to Nikkou Toushouguu where Tokugawa Ieyasu is worshipped, and of the twenty shukuba[41] along the way we have already passed Senju-shuku, Souka-shuku, and Koshigaya-shuku. In the past, people used to walk along this path by foot."
Toukaidou, Nakasendou, Koushuu Kaidou, Nikkou Kaidou, and finally Oushuu Kaidou.
One of the Edo Five Routes[42], Nikkou Kaidou had become a national and prefectural route. Amakasu explained with great solemnity as they rode this seven-passenger minivan.
"Seeking convenience and doing things faster is a nasty habit of modern people. Kusanagi-san, don't you think we should learn about the journey of the ancients, and experience for ourselves the hardships of the past?"
"No! All I want right now is to get there as quickly as possible to end this hellish torment!"
As the two men conversed in isolation, the girls in the back were chatting away with great excitement.
This in itself was not a problem. However, it was what they were discussing.
"S-So Erica-neesama is Onii-sama's principal wife?"
"Yes, that is correct. Hikari will stay and serve by his side in the future, so you'd better be obedient, and assist your older sister Yuri well."
"In other words, group cooperation is very important...!?"
"Not exactly. Rather than have everyone getting along in harmony, it's better to maintain a level of competition. But competing has its time and place, otherwise there will be a problem during a crisis, so knowing the hierarchy is the key. As long as you know whose orders to take in an emergency, most problems can be solved easily."
"Wow... I've learnt a lot, Erica-neesama is just like Ena-neesama described, a very amazing person."
"Is that how Ena described me?"
"She said you are very powerful, possessing a mind that rivals Kaoru-san, plus a very arrogant personality."
"I am honored, but that last description is unnecessary. I am not arrogant, instead, it should be said that I am very great. Next time Hikari sees Ena, you'd better correct her on this."
"I got it, nee-sama!"
"Erica, do not take advantage of her innocence to indoctrinate her with a bunch of wrong ideas. Calling yourself Kusanagi Godou's principal wife, that is going too far!"
"Ah, everyone knows that is the eventual future outcome, right?"
"At least I do not think so. From my view, you are just an evil scheming vassal who will lead the lord towards a dark future... Mariya Hikari, you would do best to first forget everything Erica said, then remember this: a real knight does not let oneself be bound rigidly to their position and responsibilities."
"Li...Liliana-neesama! What does that mean!?"
"Knowing your place is admittedly important, but it is not everything. No matter where you stand, silently offering your all to the lord is the most important, for that is the true way of the knight. Bragging that she is the principal wife or first lady, indicates that something is wrong with her cognition."
"Don't be bound by hierarchy, and devote myself to Onii-sama... Yes, that's the idea."
"Yes, for you to understand this kind of noble spirit, I expect good things from you."
"Right, so as long as we become Onii-sama's 'convenient women' it's fine right?"
"Con... Convenient -- little children should not say things like that!"
"Hikari! Where did you hear that from!?"
"Ena-neesama told me, the previous heads of the Seishuuin family had 'convenient women' everywhere, and treated them as their lovers, and would at least take up the minimum responsibility of supporting their daily needs... Onee-chan, Onii-sama will take care of me, right?"
"U-Ummm... I say... Our relationships with Godou-san are not that decadent..."
"But that is what Ena-neesama said, Kusanagi Onii-sama is very manly and generous, so all the surrounding women will be charmed by him. Though she regrets that she cannot monopolize him together with Onee-chan, it can't be helped if the king pursues a life of debauchery..."
"Please do not mention such things so loudly, too shameless!"
"Ooh, is that so? By the way, what does debauchery feel like?"
"Ah, Hikari sure is eager to learn. Fine, let me tell you, this is a real story I heard back in Hong Kong --"
"E-Erica-san! I am begging you, please spare her this kind of explanation."
Besides her sister, Hikari had become friendly with everyone else, without being aware of it, she already called them all "Onee-sama."
A personality that was nowhere near bashful. Godou liked that point about her, but her talkative character needed a little work... However, if he turned around to remind the back seats, it would only have the effect of alerting them without achieving his aim, so Godou spoke to the dr
iver instead.
"Hey, Amakasu-san, can you give me contact information for Seishuuin later?"
"Oh, planning on some love talk on the phone?"
"No, absolutely not. Later I am going to send her a text message of complaints. Also, could you let me off at the next station? I'm going to take the train by myself."
"Come on don't be like that, travelling requires companions. Let's admire this scenery on the road together. By the way, we are just about to pass through Kasukabe-shuku which is the first shukuba where Matsuo Bashou[43] stayed in Oku no Hosomichi[44].
Godou glared at the giggling Amakasu.
"How can I be happy with those kinds of conversations going on in the back! Do you understand the feeling of sitting on a bed of nails! If you aren't going to let me off the car, then at least drive quickly to Nikkou!"
"Hahaha, don't get angry, it's not often to have a chance to go for a spin like this, you should be a little more happy."
Wearing an unassuming outfit, the History Compilation Committee member laughed heartily. He probably picked this route deliberately to maximize delays.
Describing his boss as loving to play pranks, he was just the same.
The tormented Godou aside, everyone else was enjoying the trip to Nikkou.
After the lively journey, Godou and his group reached their destination at about one in the afternoon.
Despite many places being severely congested, the group was fortunate enough to be unaffected.
Nikkou Mountain was where Toushouguu, Futarasan Shrine and Rinnouji were located.
It was still too early for the season of red leaves, but true to its reputation as a tourist vacation spot, there were still many visitors paying respects, making it very lively and bustling, though not to the degree of being packed with people... There were many tourists of both genders and all ages, people travelling alone or as a family, lovers, or group tours, etc... Basically all sorts of people.
Amakasu stopped the minivan at the car park and everyone else got off first.
And then they reached the main visiting path[45].
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