At this moment, Sara's heart was filled with unease. To say she was anxious would be more accurate than worried—the reason was obvious.
This was the first time she had gone on a trip alone with the Shogun. Perhaps it could be called a trip? After all, it would take nearly an hour by boat to reach Seirai Island from Narukami Island. During that whole time, it would be just the two of them… like a date. The thought of a date made her even more nervous. She feared that one careless mistake might ruin everything. Should she dress up a little? Or perhaps… put on some makeup?
But… she had never done such things, nor was she good at them. Besides, this wasn't a date—it was official business, accompanying the Shogun. Her current attire as a general of the Tenryou Commission was already suitable.
Now she stood waiting alone outside the Tenshukaku's main gate—not within the courtyard, but on the street, to appear less conspicuous. She thought the Shogun would come out from the main entrance, but unexpectedly—
Tap, tap…
Behind her came the sound of light footsteps. Even with the crowd bustling on the street, this particular step stood out to her. Startled, she turned her head.
The sight left her frozen in place.
Before her stood a graceful figure, holding a parasol and wearing a kimono.
A shapely body was wrapped in a white-and-lilac kimono, just like when she had first met her as a child. A delicate hand held the purple oil-paper umbrella resting upon her shoulder. The fair skin of her face and the soft strands of her loose hair framed lips of natural cherry pink, untouched by any rouge. Beneath the kimono's short hem, white thigh-high stockings outlined exquisite legs, the feet clad in black high-heeled sandals.
It was exactly the same as back then.
The girl could not help recalling that rainy night when they first met—the same attire she sometimes saw in her dreams, like a celestial maiden.
So, the one she had met that night was indeed her Shogun…
The Shogun stood before her, lifting the edge of her umbrella just enough to reveal a face so beautiful it felt unreal, raising her eyes toward the taller girl.
"…Have you been waiting long?"
Her gentle voice entered Sara's ears. It sounded just like the words of a lover late to a rendezvous.
Originally, the Shogun had intended to leave directly from the front gate, but to avoid attracting attention, she had changed into casual attire, left from the rear, and circled around to approach Sara quietly from behind. This way, she would not be recognized.
"N-no, not at all///. While Shogun-sama took the time to dress in disguise, how could I mind waiting?"
Sara's face flushed red as she stammered out an explanation. Rather, she felt joy at seeing such a beautiful side of her once again.
"Shh… say nothing of it. I don't wish for others to notice."
The Shogun raised a slender finger to her lips in a shh gesture, softly warning her.
"Yes…"
Sara answered.
"Hah…"
The Shogun let out a faint sigh, shaking her head lightly.
"Sara… in private, you need not treat me with such stiff formality. Address me as you would a friend. Between us, it is enough."
This child was always too serious… and a little awkward. Though she herself was no different at times, it was rare to relax like this. To keep speaking only in rigid commands would be a pity.
"Yes… mm."
Sara listened obediently. At her words, she quickly corrected herself, replying in a more natural tone—just like a child from long ago.
"Then, let us go…"
The Shogun turned, parasol in hand, and walked toward the bustling streets of Inazuma City, leaving Sara with a graceful back view and a drifting fragrance.
Sara followed quickly, instinctively walking a step behind her like a guard.
"Walk by my side."
Noticing her behavior, the Shogun sighed softly and turned back to instruct her.
"!"
Sara's body trembled.
"…Could it be that you're afraid of me?"
She thought she had already lowered her aura as much as possible, even softened her tone. Yet still this girl seemed so stiff?
"It's not that—"
"I already told you to treat me as a friend. Or… do you not see me as one?"
Her words carried a subtle pressure, yet also a teasing hint. She even feigned a touch of disappointment, alluringly so.
"That's not it… I—!"
"Then come forward, and walk with me."
"…Yes… alright."
Like a flustered little puppy, the girl blushed as she timidly moved to her side, walking shoulder to shoulder with her along the street. She felt so weak-willed now… perhaps it was simply nerves.
...
Inazuma City was the most bustling district of all Narukami Island. Most Inazumans lived here. From Hanamizaka to the central streets, one could follow the rising terrain, explore traditional shops, and taste local specialties. To the Shogun, such scenery was nothing new—just a casual stroll. But to Sara, simply walking quietly at her side was already enough to fill her with contentment.
It was still early, around ten in the morning. The streets were crowded—merchants peddling their goods, snack stalls open for business, parents bringing children out to play. The scene was lively and vibrant.
The Shogun wore her usual casual attire for going out. It was elegant, but more importantly, no one could recognize her.
Along the roadside stood bulletin boards for notices, public opinions, missing persons or items, and adventurer commissions. Sometimes there would even be tasks related to Seirai Island. Seeing this, the Shogun turned toward one of the boards, and Sara followed.
Standing before the board, the Shogun lifted a slender finger, brushing along its surface as her eyes scanned it. She was searching for any commission about Seirai, perhaps even to take one herself. Despite appearances, she was something of an adventurer incognito.
"Shogun-sama… are you looking for commissions?"
Sara's tone was already less stiff, her voice softened with familiarity.
"Indeed. Generally speaking… commissions for Seirai Island are few and far between. Perhaps one every several dozen days."
"..."
Sara lowered her eyes in thought.
"But the rewards… are usually generous."
The Shogun added, turning her gaze back to Sara.
"Shogun-sama… you also accept commissions?"
"Strange, is it? Think of it as an occasional pastime."
Sara was slightly surprised. Was the Shogun truly so approachable? Looking at her posture now, it was clear few could guess her true identity.
However…
The Shogun's finger stopped on one particular sheet. Her violet eyes narrowed slightly before she tore it from the board, scanning the clumsy handwriting. At the bottom was the name of the original poster—somewhat unfamiliar.
"Arataki Itto… who is this?"
She looked toward the girl beside her with puzzlement.
"!"
Sara's body jolted at once. A wave of embarrassment surged over her. Why did that guy's name have to appear here of all places?!
"How… how does Shogun-sama know of him?"
"Hmm? It is written here. The contents mention you."
The Shogun opened the paper slightly so she could see.
The signature read: Arataki, Sumo King, Itto!
The contents:
[Hey Kujou! This boss has come to Ritou! Don't keep bullying foreigners!! That beating you gave me—I'll remember it well! Our duel of revenge, you're not escaping it!]
"..."
Sara's face darkened instantly, her teeth clenched as though she could bore holes into the paper with her glare.
"Who is he? Why does he call you so? Are you close?"
The Shogun, perplexed by her reaction, asked three questions in quick succession.
"No, not at all…! That guy is just an idiot. Please, Shogun-sama, don't waste any thought on him—he's not worth it."
For him to write such outrageous things on a public board… it was utterly humiliating. Worst of all, it had happened in front of the Shogun.
"Is that so… yet there are more of these."
The Shogun calmly pulled down several more sheets filled with similar scribbles, examining them one by one.
"Sh-Shogun-sama~! P-please stop looking at those…"
Sara wanted nothing more than to crawl into a hole and disappear. But she could do nothing to stop the other, forced instead to endure this storm of shame. Even her normally firm, commanding voice softened into a tone tinged with flustered sweetness. If only she had torn them down earlier… ahh~!
"Oh? So serious? It seems he troubles you quite a lot."
The Shogun observed every flicker of her expression clearly. This was no mere passing acquaintance—there had clearly been encounters. That such a fool could make Sara so flustered and indignant… how amusing.
"Worried is… putting it lightly."
Sara answered softly.
"This Arataki Itto… every single sheet mentions you. He seems quite fixated on you. Do you two have some grudge?"
The Shogun frowned as she looked over the papers. Each one contained the name "Kujou Sara," always paired with words about duels, sumo…
"Hah… it's like this: he's part of the oni clan. I once confiscated his Vision, and he tried to fight back. I defeated him, but ever since then he's been clinging onto this idea of revenge. Almost every few days, he posts these papers on the notice board—like a provocation."
Sara finally gave in, patiently explaining.
"I see… and did you accept his challenge?"
She asked.
"I've never accepted… all of my free time is for you, Shogun-sama. How would I waste it on him?"
Sara crossed her arms in a pout, like a sulky child.
"Hah… Sara. Sometimes, you must also keep some time for yourself. Hearing you say this today… I feel I bear some responsibility."
The Shogun lowered her eyes slightly, a trace of a sigh in her tone, as she neatly organized the sheets in her hand one by one.
"Shogun-sama, you misunderstand… I—I willingly spend this time on you. I've never once complained. It's my choice… you bear no responsibility!"
For some reason, hearing her speak so gently to her made her chest ache. That kindness only stirred her heart more.
"Your loyalty pleases me, but… don't force yourself. Here, take these."
She handed the neatly stacked sheets to Sara.
"This is…?"
Sara blinked in confusion, adorably dazed, though her hands instinctively reached out to accept them.
"I guessed you'd tear them down later anyway. This saves you the trouble of ripping them off one by one. I even organized them for you. Collect them all at once when you wish."
The Shogun's lips curved faintly into a playful smile, her words teasing. Sara nearly laughed aloud.
"Pfft… mm."
She couldn't help but smile, her expression softening as she tucked the stack into the small pouch at her waist—one she had prepared specially.
The two continued on their way. This time, Sara finally grew comfortable walking at her side, her posture relaxing a little. Seeing her like this, the Shogun felt relief. She had worried Sara might truly fear her. If that were the case… what then?
They passed by countless shops—the clamor of merchants, the chatter of adults, the cries of children, even the mewling of cats and barking of dogs.
Looking upon the peace of Inazuma, the Shogun allowed herself a faint, beautiful smile. But beneath it was a trace of complexity. She knew too well: appearances could deceive. What lay behind this tranquility? The Statue of the Omnipresent God seemed to whisper the answer.
Was the Vision Hunt Decree truly right? She knew the truth. Yet duty bound her. She could not betray her.
That one who still sat alone in the Plane of Euthymia, deep in meditation—how could she ever abandon her?
Even if this path was wrong, Ei… this vessel will walk it with you, until the day you choose to step forward yourself.
...
Within the Plane of Euthymia—
"!"
Ei suddenly felt a tremor in her chest. She opened her eyes, pressing a hand to her heart.
"Shogun…"
Just for an instant, she had felt the Shogun's thoughts turn to her. Was it only an illusion?
"Hah… am I overthinking again?"
She could only conclude so. Calming her heart, she returned to meditation.
...
At the far end of Hanamizaka lay the Adventurers' Guild—the favorite place of many adventurers. The Shogun and Sara approached the front counter. Behind it stood a bob-haired receptionist in uniform. Seeing customers approach, she began her usual greeting:
"Up to the stars, down to the abyss, welcome to the Adventurers' Guild, you two—"
Halfway through, she caught sight of their faces. Sara was no surprise, but the woman in a kimono, holding a parasol—her eyes widened.
"Oh my… isn't that the Sho—!"
About to say "Shogun-sama," she stopped herself just in time. Quickly covering her mouth, she lowered her voice to a near whisper:
"Isn't this Shogun-sama? What wind has brought you here today?"
The Shogun gave her usual slight nod.
"Merely traveling incognito, observing the people. Your reaction just now was commendable."
The Shogun offered mild praise. As expected of the Adventurers' Guild receptionist—sharp and quick-witted.
"Hehe… Shogun-sama flatters me."
Katherine lowered her eyes with a sweet smile.
"Katherine… how did you recognize Shogun-sama so quickly?"
Sara couldn't help but ask, puzzled how the other had seen through it at once.
"Oh… that would be because Shogun-sama has come here in casual attire several times already. To be honest, Kujou-dono, Shogun-sama is one of the Guild's more experienced adventurers."
Katherine explained with a touch of pride, introducing the woman before them in her kimono and parasol.
Sara's eyes widened in disbelief. Shogun-sama… an adventurer?
"There's no need for surprise. When in Rome, do as the Romans do."
The Shogun answered simply, idly twirling the handle of her paper parasol, its surface turning slowly along with her movement. In that moment, she seemed like an innocent young maiden.
"Hehe… yes, that's exactly how Shogun-sama answered me back then too."
Katherine said with a wry smile to Sara.
"I-I see…"
To Sara, it only made her admiration deepen. Surely, Shogun-sama worried for the safety of Inazuma's adventurers, and personally joined them to ensure their well-being. How kind she was!
But in truth, the Shogun had merely wanted to earn a little extra Mora. At first, she had none of her own, and demanding funds outright from below would be unbecoming. This had been her solution. Of course, she also thought of leaving something behind for Ei, knowing full well Ei had no money either.
"By the way… today, Shogun-sama—ah, this adventurer—what business brings you here?"
Katherine quickly corrected her words as more people passed by.
"How fares Seirai Island recently?"
The Shogun asked softly. Her tone was always gentle, much like Ei's, except when she assumed the full majesty of the Raiden Shogun.
"Seirai Island? Recently, the thunderstorms there have grown even more violent, their range expanding until nearly the entire island is covered."
Katherine frowned in concern.
"..."
The Shogun lowered her gaze in thought. Perhaps it was Kanna Kapatcir's feather at fault. All the more reason to intervene.
"Have the residents been evacuated?"
Sara asked. She recalled that during their previous monster purge, everyone had been ordered to leave. Had they returned?
"Yes… they were moved long ago. Now Seirai holds no one but Hilichurls and Abyss Mages."
So they hadn't come back. Sara sighed in relief.
"Also… today, a large group of adventurers is setting sail to investigate the storms. They'll be departing shortly. If Shogun-sama doesn't mind, you could ride along with them. The ship is large—there will be no need to worry about crowding."
Katherine suggested.
"Indeed, that is a fine idea…"
The Shogun thought it over. There was no rush—reaching the island would take an hour and a half by boat anyway.
"Mm, and I happen to have a commission here. Shogun-sama may wish to accept it."
Katherine bent to retrieve a slip of paper from beneath the counter, scanning its contents.
"The client is a young lady named Etsuko. She is also an adventurer, and she's leading a group to Seirai today to investigate the lightning storms. If Shogun-sama finds her on the island, that will complete the request. Moreover…"
Katherine leaned closer, speaking softly at the Shogun's ear. Sara frowned slightly at the sudden closeness.
"It's said… Miss Etsuko offers a very generous reward, Shogun-sama~."
Her delicate voice brushed her ear. The Shogun narrowed her eyes faintly and looked up at her.
"Oh? Such fortune is rare indeed."
Her lips curved faintly with a smile.
"Hehe… I was saving it for someone else, but since you've come today, I'll entrust it to you, Shogun-sama."
Katherine winked playfully.
"…Such honeyed words. Still… my thanks."
"No need for thanks. Up to the stars, down to the abyss~"
Katherine finished with her familiar phrase, her sweet voice lingering in the air.