The Rise from the Brink of Death

Due to the excessive use of magic earlier, every step now felt like a heavy blow to my exhausted body. I reactivated the armor, removed the mask, and stored it in the suitcase, revealing my pale skin, blurred vision, and pain running through my body, as if every cell wanted to dissolve. The effort to keep myself upright grew more difficult as the sense of exhaustion overwhelmed me. The path to the museum seemed endless.

Finally, after what felt like an eternity, I arrived at the museum. The large doors appeared before me, like an entrance to a new world. Before I realized it, the other teachers noticed my exhausted state. They quickly approached, guiding me to the infirmary to rest.

"What happened? Are you hurt?" one teacher asked, worried.

"I'm fine. Just a bit tired," I replied weakly.

In the warm infirmary, I was laid on a bed and taken care of meticulously. The gentle light and the concerned voices of the teachers around me brought a sense of safety. Though the pain remained, my eyes gradually closed, letting my consciousness sink into deep sleep.

A while later, I woke up still aching all over. The light outside the infirmary had dimmed, signaling that it was evening. I smelled antiseptics and heard the soft sounds of nurses at work.

Miss Tama-chan, always caring for students, noticed I was awake and rushed to my side.

"How do you feel? Any better?"

"I feel better, thank you."

"You need to rest more. Don't overexert yourself. We'll take care of you until you fully recover."

"What time is it now?"

"It's 6 PM. The group hasn't moved to the hotel yet; we're waiting for you and Yatogami-san to wake up. She's on the bed next to yours."

"I'm really sorry for causing trouble for everyone!"

"Don't blame yourself. Accidents happen, especially with the sudden storm."

"By the way, we have new transfer students joining our trip."

"New students? Who are they?"

"Let me remember… I think their names are Yamai Yuzuru and Yamai Kaguya."

Hearing their names, I recalled that Reine had convinced them to pose as students of Raizen to infiltrate and get closer to Shido. Their presence would surely complicate matters, akin to "bringing wolves into the fold." Given their past crimes and recent actions, I knew I had to stay vigilant and find the right moment to act.

"Are you sure you're alright?" Miss Tama-chan asked again.

"Yes, I'm very well."

"Then go outside for some fresh air, but remember not to exert yourself," she advised before letting me leave the bed.

I grabbed my luggage and left the infirmary. Since we had to wait for Tohka to wake up before heading to the hotel, I decided to take a walk around the museum to kill time. Besides the exhibits on Japanese history, there was also the history of the island itself.

The northern part of the island was wiped out by the "Super Spacequake" thirty years ago, a series of earthquakes that killed countless people and left the population sparse. Only a few natural areas retained their pristine beauty, attracting tourists.

As I passed each artifact and photo, I deeply felt the islanders' pain and resilience. Stories of survival and rebuilding after the disaster came alive, like indelible memory paintings.

The clock struck 6:50 PM, and Tohka had woken from her coma. The class began to load their luggage onto the bus to be taken to the island resort. However, strangely enough, Shido and the Yamai sisters were absent.

When the bus stopped, students disembarked, marveling at the grand resort. The resort stood with elegant architecture, luxurious buildings amidst majestic nature. Warm yellow light from high-hung lanterns created an enchanting and friendly space.

"Bring your luggage to your assigned rooms, then freshen up and come to Room 40 for dinner!"

"Yes," everyone chorused.

I took my luggage to my group's assigned room. Inside, I saw Shido's suitcase already there. Reine must have found a way to send Shido ahead with the Yamai sisters.

After a shower and change, my fatigue and soreness eased somewhat thanks to the warm water.

Heading to Room 40, just as I was about to enter, I heard the voices of Yuzuru and Kaguya inside.

"Kaka… Lowly beings. Consider it a privilege to dine with me. Engrave my name deep in your hearts, the child of the storm, Yamai Kaguya."

Hearing her arrogant tone, my anger flared. Spirits like her, always conceited, never concerned about the suffering they caused humanity.

I took a deep breath, trying to calm my emotions, then opened the door. The class was already seated, the room filled with laughter. Shido sat between Yuzuru and Kaguya, all three chatting happily.

But their laughter died down at my presence, the Yamai sisters retreating into a defensive stance, a reaction I had come to expect.

"Shido, what exactly is that creature?" Kaguya asked.

"Question: I have the same question as Kaguya."

I didn't respond, but my eyes had changed. No longer innocent or naive, they had become sharp and cold, like a blade ready to strike anyone in my way.

"What's the matter, you two? This is Watano, a friendly and energetic classmate," Tonomachi tried to ease the tension.

"Right, he's a good person, don't worry," Shido added.

"It's okay, no need to explain," I cut in, sitting in the remaining empty seat.

After Shido's words, Yuzuru and Kaguya returned to their meal, though still wary. Once dinner ended, I headed back to my room, taking advantage of the moment alone to maintain my CR-Unit armor and mask.

The dim light from the room lamp cast shadows on the armor's details. I meticulously checked each piece, ensuring nothing was damaged or missing.

"Thank goodness, the magic core is intact!" I sighed in relief.

The mask, scratched from the storm's sand and dust, was cleaned and carefully repaired. Every touch reminded me of my helplessness at that moment.

After finishing the maintenance, I stored the armor back in its chip and placed the mask in the suitcase, deciding to sleep early to regain strength. For tomorrow, a brutal battle between D.E.M., Shido, and the spirits would erupt, and I wouldn't miss that opportunity.

◊

The second day of the school trip began. Dim light from the window pulled me from sleep. I sat up slowly, feeling the lingering fatigue from the previous day.

Drawing the curtains, I looked out at the blue beach. The bright sunlight and seagulls soaring in the sky created a serene atmosphere, completely opposite to yesterday.

Shido, Tohka, and Origami had left early. I quickly changed and stepped out. Everyone was excited, but I couldn't fully relax, thinking about the upcoming battle.

"Today you can go to the beach, but remember to follow safety rules," the teacher instructed.

"Yes!" everyone responded in unison.

I followed the group to the beach. The lively chatter and gentle waves created a peaceful space. Yet oddly, Shido, Tohka, Origami, and the Yamai sisters were nowhere to be seen, nor was Reine among the teachers. But that was fine; avoiding them now was probably for the best to minimize trouble.

"Enjoying the peaceful scenery before a brutal battle, I guess?"

I walked slowly along the beach, feeling the cool waves lap at my feet. The golden sunlight sparkled on the water.

"Hey, Watano! Come play volleyball with us," Tonomachi called out.

"Can I join?"

We started playing volleyball, the laughter and energetic rallies making the atmosphere lively. Each powerful spike and skillful catch made us forget our worries for a moment. I felt relaxed and comfortable, something I hadn't experienced in a long time.

After tiring ourselves out, we sat under the shade, enjoying cold watermelon. Each sweet, cool bite melted in my mouth, soothing the summer heat.

"This is so good!"

"Yeah, really delicious."

"Hey, Watano. Can I ask you something?"

"What's up?" I asked, sensing curiosity in his voice.

"Why did the Yamai sisters react so strongly to you? Do they know you?"

"No, they probably mistook me for someone else."

"And Tohka reacted similarly, even told me some weird things."

"Weird things? Like what?"

"She said you looked like a monster and to stay away."

"Really? HAHAHA," I laughed.

"Watano? Why are you laughing like that?" Tonomachi was surprised.

"Oh, I'm sorry, it's just funny to me."

Being with friends, laughing and chatting made me truly happy. These moments made me forget the heavy responsibilities I bore. The laughter, small talk, and friendly atmosphere erased all worries and pressures. But deep inside, I could never fully escape the anxiety about the upcoming battle.

As that thought crossed my mind, a wave of responsibility washed over me. I knew I couldn't avoid it forever. So, I decided to stand up, leaving my friends and heading back to my room.

"Sorry, everyone, I have to go now. There's something urgent to handle."

"What's wrong, Watano?"

"Nothing, just some small tasks. You guys continue to have fun."

"Oh, and tonight, remember to stay within the resort."

"Why?"

"Just trust me, okay?"

My steps grew heavier, but my resolve only sharpened. To emerge victorious, I had to take the initiative in this battle, despite my current inadequate equipment. With the knowledge and skills honed over months of relentless training, nothing was impossible.

In the room, to monitor the movements of Yamai sisters, Tohka, and Shido, I used a small drone equipped with a camera connected to my laptop. The drone hovered silently, tracking their positions and sending back crystal-clear, detailed images. The laptop screen displayed their every action, allowing me to observe and assess the situation closely.

I watched them throughout the morning and afternoon, yet the right opportunity never arose. They stayed together, blending in with other students, leaving only one chance—tonight.

◊

As night fell, I donned my Cr-unit armor, loaded my magazine, and put on my mask before setting off. Knowing the location of the impending battle, I arrived early to gain a strategic advantage. The beach was serene, with Shido and Tohka strolling under the sunset. The gentle waves and their cheerful laughter created an almost unbreakable tranquility. But they weren't my targets tonight. Finally, they appeared.

Hearing Shido and Tohka's conversation, Kaguya and Yuzuru grew enraged and began fighting "like rabid dogs," just to determine who the true Yamai was—utterly absurd.

"<Raphael >, [El Re'em]!!"

"Merge, <Raphael >, [El Nachash]!!"

Both sisters donned their astral dresses and summoned their angels. Blinding light and raging winds enveloped them, transforming the peaceful beach into a dazzling, perilous battlefield. The crashing waves were drowned out by the sounds of their fierce combat.

Each clash of their angels sent shockwaves rippling outward, uprooting everything in their path. The beach turned chaotic, with violent waves smashing against the shore and sand and rocks whirling into the air.

Shido screamed, his voice cracking with desperation.

"Stop it, both of you! Don't you love each other?"

But his pleas were lost in the tempest, or perhaps they only heard the sounds of their attacks and defenses. The furious exchanges and powerful gusts created a horrifying spectacle.

"Shido! Be careful! There's something here!" Tohka's warning startled me. Had I been discovered? I struggled to stay calm and continued observing from a distance.

About ten human-like shadows surrounded Shido and Tohka as they chased Kaguya and Yuzuru. These figures were slender, with smooth, helmet-like heads, and their joints bent opposite to human norms. Most strikingly, they bore components resembling a Cr-unit.

"Bandersnatch!" I gasped, recognizing DEM's fearsome combat machines.

A young girl emerged behind them. "You've finally come to a deserted place, Tohka-san. And it seems there's an unnecessary person here, but this will do."

She smiled coldly, her sharp gaze sweeping over Tohka and Shido. At last, her true nature was revealed. But that was all the better—no one would interfere in the battle between me and the Berserk spirits.

Seizing this crucial moment, I activated my Cr-unit, its light blazing in a blinding flash. I launched myself into the air, heading straight for the battling Kaguya and Yuzuru.

Their angels' winds lashed at me, but they couldn't stop my advance. My speed shattered every barrier, tearing through the air around me.

As I approached, both spirits noticed my presence. Kaguya and Yuzuru turned, their eyes filled with shock and dread. Before they could react, I struck, knocking them both away.

Kaguya was flung back, struggling to regain balance, her face a mask of astonishment. "What are you doing?" she screamed, eyes blazing with fury.

Yuzuru steadied herself, her expression calmer but eyes vigilant. "Question: Is this the one who appeared at the meal the other day?"

"Now that you mention it. Isn't his name... Watano?"

"Affirmative. It's him, without a doubt."

I laughed, a cold, mocking sound echoing like a death knell. "Watano? How ridiculous. You're mistaken," I said, my voice carrying an eerie curse.

My gaze pierced the space, imposing and terrifying behind my mask. "I am not Watano, and my name doesn't matter to you," I continued, my voice icy. "I am your nightmare, the embodiment of vengeance and justice for those you have mercilessly slaughtered."

I paused, letting my words sink in before delivering my final, powerful statement: "I am The Merciless. Remember this name, for it is the name of the one who will end the vile spirits like you."

Kaguya sneered, her eyes gleaming with arrogance. "They should be grateful to die under our noble storm. They don't deserve to exist in this world."

Yuzuru, equally contemptuous, glared at me. "Agreement. Those weaklings were a burden to humanity. Their existence was meaningless."

Rage surged within me, stronger than ever.

"You really think you have the right to judge others' lives and deaths?"

"Deploy Territory."

I charged again. The light from my Territory flared up, enveloping me in a powerful, majestic armor. I slashed at Kaguya with my laser sword. She dodged swiftly, moving with agility.

"Tch!"

"You think you can defeat me with that speed?"

Yuzuru attacked from behind, but I was ready. I spun, deploying Territory to block her strike.

"Don't underestimate my power," I roared in anger.

I retreated, creating distance, then pulled out my rifle and magic magazine, firing relentlessly at both. The magic bullets streaked through the air, forming a continuous light storm of attacks.

"Pathetic."

"Scorn. Do you think such weapons can oppose our power?"

"You're naive."

I grabbed a smoke grenade from my side, hurling it at them. White smoke spread, obscuring Kaguya and Yuzuru's vision.

"Such petty tricks!"

" <El Re'em> !"

Kaguya's spear technique dispelled the smoke in an instant. But everything was according to my plan.

"Gotcha."

I immediately used my magic to create a Territory that could lock the target.

"Now, you can't dodge."

"You dare."

"KAGUYAAA!" Yuzuru screamed, rushing to save Kaguya.

"<El Na'ash>!" Yuzuru's pendulum hurtled toward me like a fierce storm. I dodged, using Territory to create a launch pad, but the pendulum grazed my face, cracking part of my mask, revealing a portion of my face.

"Release Kaguya now!" Yuzuru shouted, her voice filled with determination and fury. She continued her relentless attacks, never taking her eyes off me.

Feeling the pain from the wound on my face, I had to remain calm, for my opponent was a true spirit. A single mistake could cost me my life in this battle.

"Dragging this out isn't an option. I'll have to use it." I muttered, preparing for the decisive strike.

"What are you mumbling about?"

I didn't respond, focusing on unleashing nearly all the magic within me. The blue light from my Territory expanded, enveloping us all, creating an invisible pressure. It felt like the space around us was being sucked into the heart of the battle.

"Either I die, or you both will."

With the space confined, I discarded my rifle and drew two short knives. These were no ordinary knives; they were infused with magical cores, nearly equivalent to my own magic, capable of cutting through anything or releasing energy beams to annihilate enemies within a certain range.

"You'll regret facing us," Yuzuru growled, her eyes full of killing intent.

"Let's see who regrets," I retorted, gripping the knives tightly.

We clashed, the battle reaching its peak intensity. Every strike, every attack was unleashed with full strength and skill. Without enough magic to create another Territory around myself, dodging Yuzuru's attacks became more challenging. She attacked ferociously, each blow intent on crushing me.

The light from our strikes illuminated the area, creating a grand, brutal scene. I used the short knives to parry and counterattack, seizing every opportunity to turn the tide. Sparks flew from our clashing weapons, and the sound of metal against metal echoed continuously.

Yuzuru moved with lightning speed, her pendulum launching a barrage of relentless attacks, leaving me no room to breathe. I struggled to maintain focus, trying to keep my composure under the mounting pressure, but the situation was becoming increasingly dire.

"Damn it!"

"DIE, YOU BASTARD!"

Then, a single mistake turned the tide of battle. In a fleeting moment of distraction, I misjudged Yuzuru's next move. She seized the opportunity, delivering a precise strike with her pendulum, piercing straight through my heart and leaving a gaping hole in my chest.

Agony erupted, blood flowing freely from the wound, soaking my clothes and skin. My vision dimmed, limbs trembling, as life seemed to drain from my body. I struggled to stay afloat in the air, but my Territory began to dissipate, and Kaguya broke free from my grasp.

"Concern. Kaguya, are you alright?"

"Yes, thank you. I was so scared, I thought he was going to kill me."

"Reassurance. Don't worry, I won't let him harm you."

I looked at the Yamai sisters, my heart sinking with despair and defeat. The pain from my wound made it hard to breathe, and blood continued to flow, forming a red pool in the floating Territory. I knew I had lost, but my pride wouldn't let me fall so easily.

"Let's finish him off together."

"Agreed. I feel the same."

"〖Celestial Archers <El Kanaph>〗" The sisters chanted in unison.

Their combined ultimate attack, formed by Kaguya's spear, Yuzuru's pendulum, and their wings, aimed directly at me.

With every ounce of strength left, I made one final effort. "It won't... end... like this," I croaked, my voice hoarse and weak. Pressing the buttons on my daggers, the blades shot up, transforming into a shower of magical bullets.

The small orbs of magic, like dust in the wind, spread throughout the space, falling like rain with a glimmering light of destruction. They descended with incredible speed, targeting the area encompassing the Yamai sisters and me.

"Reminder. Be careful, Kaguya."

"You too."

To avoid the attack, they redirected their ultimate skill skyward, obliterating the magical bullets with a massive arrow that split the night sky and revealed the moon.

Seeing my final attack so easily thwarted, I knew I was truly defeated. The last remnants of my energy faded, and my Territory vanished. Unable to keep myself airborne, I began to plummet toward the sea. As I sank into the depths, I vaguely saw Shido and Tohka rushing towards me, shouting something, but my consciousness was slipping away.

The cold embrace of the ocean enveloped me. The pressure increased as I sank deeper, each impact against the water intensifying the heaviness and pain. Blood from my wounds mingled with the water, creating faint red trails in the dark abyss.

"Is this the end?" I wondered as silence enveloped me.

"Why does it end... like this?"

"All my efforts, all my plans, rendered meaningless?"

"I'm... dying..."

"Maybe... this is the best release for me..."

"Goodbye... everyone..."

Before I completely lost consciousness, a voice echoed in my mind. Was it an illusion brought on by impending death? The sound was unfamiliar yet oddly familiar, as if I'd heard it before. It seemed like the voice of the mysterious figure at Akura Airport. Then, my consciousness felt as if it was in another dimension.

"Why are you still holding back?"

"What do you mean?"

"Have you forgotten what they said to us? What they did?!"

"They think you're monster!"

"No one really knows you."

"But that's fine."

"Prove them right."

"FIGHT OR BE FORGOTTEN!!!"

From the ocean's depths, where darkness and pressure reigned, a violent movement began. The water started to bubble, large air pockets rising, disturbing the ocean's stillness. Dark energy swirled upwards, creating sinister whirlpools.

I emerged from the depths, seawater streaming off me, mingling with the blood from the deep wound in my chest. But the injury only fueled my strength and ferocity. My eyes burned with unyielding rage, every movement exuding a lethal aura.

A dense, dark mist surrounded me like venomous serpents. The water around me roiled, creating waves and echoing sounds. The dark energy spiraled, ripping through the space, carrying the wrath and despair of countless souls.

On the shore, everyone stood paralyzed with horror and shock at my emergence. Fearful whispers spread, disbelief clear in their eyes.

Shido stared, incredulous and worried: "It can't be... how is he...?"

Tohka, nearby, eyes wide, speechless. "Is that really him?"

Even the confident and arrogant Yamai sisters took a step back. Their shock and fear were evident. Kaguya tried to maintain her composure, but her voice wavered: "What... what are you? How are you alive in that state?"

Yuzuru, though calmer, couldn't hide her fear: "Observation. This power... it's different from when we faced him before."

I ignored their meaningless words. My face hardened, ready to purge the evil present.

"Channel all your hatred and despair towards them into your heart; it will surely answer your wishes," the mysterious voice echoed again.

I placed my hand on my chest, focusing. As I raised my hand, dark energy swirled and merged in the air.

"Come forth, demon king 〖TYRANT LORD <NAHEMAH >〗"