No one's POV

Later that evening, Yuka was on her way to her room after a long day of work. Working to restore the capital to its former palace really took a toll on her.

Yuka: Phew... I guess I overdid it, this time...

Yuka's walking was wobbly. Her exhaustion was at its peak. Though she did her job according to she was tasked to. Moreover, Yuka was the one who'd taken care of all the other kids who'd stayed behind at the castle. The one who had lost all will to fight were especially fond of her. They knew she'd always done her best, even when she'd been beaten down by despair. She was far more reliable than a faraway Hero who fought on the front lines.

Yuka: He will be leaving tomorrow, huh...?

Yuka's mind wonder to a certain boy. Before she realized and her cheeks started flushing.

Yuka: Haaah... Haaah... Ahhh, jeez! Wait! Why am I thinking of him? Calm down. I need to calm myself down.

However right now, the image of a certain boy kept popping into her mind. The more Yuka tried the not think of him. The more she did. He already saved her three times. He'd saved her at the Great Orcus Labyrinth, then during the Black Wyvern, and now during Lucius's attacked. No matter what she tried, the boys was always on her mind.

Yuka: Noooooooooooo! He's just a friend! That's aaaaaaaaall!

Yuka was acting totally out of character. Normally, this was around the point that Yuka would attempt to calm herself down, but she was so flustered that she continued seeing image of the calm boy her mind had conjured. The moment she'd turn away from the illusion, another one appeared, this time with the same gentle smile he'd had after leaving her to save Kaori.

Yuka: Phew...

She tried to shook her head to clear her mind. But all that out of character stuns made her even more restless that she started to fall unconscious. Her exhaustion was already at it's peak. Her body fell forward, but never reached the ground. Instead, her head rested on a certain person's shoulder.

Yuka: Y-Yatagami.

The boy that she'd been trying not to think of was now standing in front of her lending his shoulder.

Sora: Geez. Did anyone ever told you, you work to hard? Take it easy once in awhile. Your body needs rest. Stay still. I'll carry you to your room.

Yuka: N-No! I can walk by myself!

Sora: Tell that to your own body.

Yuka: Ugh...

No matter what she tried to do, her fatigue is already reaching her. With no other choice, she allowed herself to be carried by Sora. She wrapped her arms around the boys shoulder as he lifted her up and started heading towards the room.

Yuka:...

Sora:...

There was a wave of silent between them until Yuka started to speak.

Yuka: Did you hear...?

Sora: What is there to hear? All I see was you acting weird and you're clearly exhausted...

Yuka: Ugh... I'm sorry...

Sora: Why are you apologizing?

Yuka: You saved me bunch of times, but all I did was caused you so much trouble.

Sora: What are you talking about? You didn't caused me any trouble.

Yuka: I did. Saving me at the Orcus Labyrinth lead you to your fall, trying to help you fought the Black Wyvern just leads into getting in your way. And finally Lucius, you got hurt because you were protecting me.

Sora: I just did it on my own accord. I want to stop Lucius from whatever plan he had.

Yuka: Still, thanks for coming to save us.

Sora: It wasn't on purpose. Things just ended up that way. If something were to happen to you, Kaori and Celia might kill me.

Yuka: Fufu, you're like a hero from a fairy tale. Back when you saved me in Orcus, then the Black Wyvern, and in the palace, you always showed up at just the right time. Are you sure you're not doing it on purpose?

Sora: Don't be stupid. Every time something happens, I just barely make it in time... Hell, in Kaori's case it was actually too late. Anyway, it's bad for my heart, so really I'd rather make it before things get that bad rather than just on time.

Though Sora always appeared overwhelmingly strong and in control of the situation, in truth he was just desperately running around trying to keep things from falling apart. At every major conflict, if he'd made even a single misstep, he would have ended up losing everything.

Sora: If showing up at the last minute every time is what makes a hero, then I don't wanna be one.

Seeing Sora's annoyed expression, Yuka giggled.

Yuka: Anyway, what I'm trying to say is, I'm really grateful to you for always showing up to save me when I'm in a pinch, Yatagami.

Sora: You're exaggerating. Besides, the reason I can't let you die, Sonobe, is —

Yuka: Because if I died, Kaori and Shizuku and the others would be sad, right? I know.

Yuka finished Sora's sentence for him. Her tone wasn't self- deprecatory, though. In fact, it was surprisingly light.

Sora: It's true that it was partly for their sake, but not completely. I'd say it was only 80% for them.

Yuka blinked in surprise. For a second, she didn't comprehend what Sora was saying, but then it hit her. She always had been quick on the uptake. Her chest grew hot, and she felt a faint glimmer of hope. If the reason Sora had saved her was only 80% for Kaori and Shizuku's sake, that meant the remaining 20% was—

Yuka: So what about the other 20%?

Sora: You're a good person, Sonobe. So I'm not going to abandon you.

Yuka:......

It wasn't the nicest way of putting things, but Yuka understood. She understood completely. Somewhere inside Sora's heart, Yuka existed too. She wasn't just another random person to him, but someone he'd be willing to save. Squealing to herself, Yuka buried her face in the nape of Sora's neck. She was blushing to the tips of her ears. Of course Sora grumbled about how she was tickling him, which killed the mood.

Sora: And I did tell you to keep on living. You've got guts, Sonobe.

Yuka:...

Sora: Sonobe?

Sora was confused by the sudden silence. He looked back only to see Yuka sleeping soundly on his back. Sora frowned, furrowing his brows. He opened his mouth to say something, but when he turned around and saw Yuka's expression, he thought better of it. Sighing, he just smiled wryly to himself and resumed walking.

(Timeskip)

That evening, a single figure stood in front of the massive monument honoring the spirits of Heiligh's dead. The sun's final rays cast the palace grounds a dazzling shade of crimson, and the monument cast a long shadow into the mountain wall from which it had been carved.

Aiko: I'm so sorry...

Aiko muttered. Numerous flowers and offerings dotted the monument; many brave soldiers had died recently. The battle was still too recent for the dead to have all been tallied, so the most recent casualties didn't have their names carved into the stone yet. Once all of the names were in though, Captain Meld would be the first to be added here.

Among the offerings, Aiko spotted a pair of weapons that she recognized. A longsword and a spear. They had been the artifacts of choice for two of Aiko's students— Daisuke Hiyama and Reichi Kondou.

Aiko wasn't even sure what she was apologizing for anymore. Was she sorry she'd never be able to bring them back to Japan? Sorry that her students had caused the deaths of innocent people? Or sorry that she herself had killed so many? Dispirited, Aiko hung her head. She only stirred when she heard footsteps heading her way. Aiko knew he'd made his footfalls heavy to alert her of his presence. Sora normally walked much quieter. Aiko slowly turned around.

Aiko: Yatagami...

Sora: Fancy meeting you here, Sensei.

Her eyes met his. The fading orange light of the sunset was reflected in his clear pupils. In his hands he carried a single flower. It appeared he'd come here to make an offering. Aiko was surprised that Sora of all people would do such a thing. Sora saw the bewilderment on her face and smiled awkwardly.

Sora: Even I feel a little sad when people I know die, Sensei.

Aiko: Huh? Oh, uh, I didn't mean to imply that...

Flustered, Aiko flailed her arms around wildly. She hadn't expected to hear such hurt in Sora's voice. He shrugged his shoulders, indicating that it wasn't a big deal, and silently walked up to the monument. Aiko kept shooting him sidelong glances, but his attention was completely occupied by the memorial in front of him. It seemed he had no intention of talking, either. Aiko found the silence unbearable, and spoke more to dispel the gloomy atmosphere than anything.

Aiko: Umm, are those flowers... for Hiyama and Kondou?

Sora: Hell no. They're for Meld.

Sora raised an eyebrow at Aiko.

Sora(mind): You seriously thought that?

Aiko: Why Meld-san...?

Sora: Well, it's not like we knew each other that well or anything, but I respected that guy. He was the country's knight commander. He could have had anything, but he still worked so hard for us. And even though he messed up a bunch of times, he always kept on trying to improve himself... He deserves at least this one flower for all of that.

Aiko: Yatagami... Yes, I suppose he does...

Aiko watched Sora with a gentle look in her eyes. She was glad there was still so much humanity left in Sora. He might kill his enemies without any mercy, but he also mourned for those he cared about. Enough that he was willing to bring an offering to their graves.

In truth, Sora had just wanted to escape being dragged into the bath by Aishia and the others. He'd been walking down the palace halls and spotted a flower in a vase, and had thought bringing Meld an offering would be a good way to kill time. Of course, he didn't mention that to Aiko. Besides, he'd meant what he said. He may have come here on a whim, but he truly believed Meld was someone who deserved to be remembered. Sora put thoughts of Meld in the back of his mind and focused his attention on Aiko.

Sora: You're not blaming me...

Aiko: Huh?

Aiko tilted her head in confusion.

Sora: About Hiyama's death. This isn't like what happened with Shimizu. Sure, maybe monsters were the direct cause of his death, but I'm the one who killed him. I killed one of your precious students. Kondou too. Even if he was already dead, I was the one that blew apart his body. I figured you'd be mad at me.

Aiko:......

Aiko's smile vanished, replaced by a brooding frown. Sora waited patiently, giving Aiko as much time as she needed. The two of them stood there silently for what seemed like hours. Finally, Aiko spoke hesitantly.

Aiko: To be honest, I'm not sure it's that simple. Hiyama murdered Shirasaki. That's not something I think can be easily forgiven. Of course, I do think he should have lived so he could repent for his crimes, but I can understand your choice. The same goes for what you did to Kondou. You must have been furious, Yatagami. You cared deeply for Shirasaki, and she had been murdered before your eyes... It would be unfair of me to get angry at you just because this wasn't the outcome I hoped for. Besides, I no longer have the right to judge you.

Aiko crossed her arms and absently rubbed her elbows, as if trying to warm herself up.

Sora: Because of what you did to the Holy Church?

Aiko:......

She nodded silently. Sora was informed later on by Hajime that Aiko had assisted Tio in destroying the church, resulting in her response for multiple deaths. Sora's words and Tio's restoration magic had helped Aiko keep her sanity right after the event. But as time passed, the guilt had started eating away at her again.

Sora noticed that there were dark circles under Aiko's eyes that she'd hidden with makeup. She hadn't been sleeping well the past few days.

Sora(mind): She probably sees nightmares about that explosion.

Silence returned to the small field they were in. Sora didn't know what to say. Unable to withstand the oppressive silence, Aiko once again spoke up. "

Aiko: Yatagami... doesn't it ever bother you?

Sora: The fact that I've killed people? It used to bother me too, sensei. Remember what I told you about Lucius, and how I killed three of his friends.

Aiko nodded her head. Just like how Sora had told Celia and the others, Aiko was one of the few people who knows the real him.

Sora: After I fell into the abyss. I think the time I spent in the abyss broke those parts of me, so I can't really sympathize.

Aiko:.....

Aiko's looked sadly up at her student. It pained her that Sora had suffered so much that he'd been forced to throw away parts of his humanity to survive.

Aiko: No one... blames me.

Sora: Hm?

Aiko's true feelings spilled out.

Aiko: No one blames me for killing them. My students still look at me the same, and the people in the palace even thank me for what I did.

It was true. The other students had been too shocked by Sora's display of brutality to think much of the fact that Aiko had killed a couple of bishops and the pope. In fact, they respected her for fighting on their behalf. The nobles and ministers, too, all were grateful to Aiko for saving them from Noint's brainwashing.

Aiko: I told David and the others what I'd done, but all they said was that they needed some time to think. Even though I was the one who destroyed the foundations of their faith, even they didn't blame me.

Aiko bit her lip so hard she drew blood. She wanted someone to condemn her. After all, she was a murderer. Knowledge of that sin was a heavy burden. Only madmen and monsters thought nothing of killing. Most people would be agonized by guilt. It would actually have eased her pain if someone condemned her for her crimes, which was why Aiko had unconsciously looked for someone to denounce her. However, no one did.

Sora was confident that Tio would have been able to obliterate the Holy Church even without Aiko's help. It might have taken some more time, but she would have done it. So to Sora, it felt like Aiko was taking on too much responsibility for something that wasn't really her fault. He scratched his cheek awkwardly, looking for the right words to say.

Sora: I mean, in the end, it was Tio's breath that killed everyone. You just helped her do it, right, Sensei? You don't have to take responsibility for all of their deaths...

Aiko: That doesn't matter! At that time... I helped Tio knowing that it might lead to their deaths. That makes me no different from a murderer!

Aiko retorted with more vehemence than Sora expected. Embarrassed by her outburst, she shrunk back into herself. After a moment's silence, Sora asked her a question.

Sora: Do you regret helping?

Aiko: Ah... No. I was prepared for the consequences... There was no way I could ignore what the pope and the bishops were trying to do... And I didn't want you to die... Plus, if I'd left them alone, it would have been my students who would have suffered later, so...

Pained though her voice was, there wasn't an ounce of regret in it. She'd known Ishtar was trying to help Noint kill Sora and Hajime. And she'd also known that the rest of her students would be next. She'd resolved herself to dirtying her own hands, if it meant saving them. Even now, she still believed that was the right decision. But that logic didn't help ease the anguish she felt at being a murderer. Feelings weren't rational, after all. Sora let out an inaudible sigh.

Sora(mind): I'm the student here, so how come I'm the one who has to give out advice? I just came here to kill time, too...

He thought back to what Aishia, Celia, Yue and Shizuku had said about Aiko being in love with him. Maybe that was why she was confiding to him now. She was starting to see him more as a man, and less as a student. Sora glanced about, trying to think of the right words to say.

Sora: Sensei, are you going to continue being my teacher?

Aiko: What?

Aiko didn't expect that line of questioning. She remembered Sora asking her something similar before. Back then she'd replied "Of course!" without hesitation, but now...

Aiko:......

She hesitated. Was it really alright for someone who'd murdered to guide others? Aiko grit her teeth so hard they almost cracked. She felt incredibly conflicted. Sora knew she'd have a hard time replying, so he continued.

Sora: If you still want to keep being our teacher, even after this... could you listen to this one selfish request of mine?

Aiko: A selfish... request?

Aiko looked up at him in confusion. Her face was pale, and she looked ready to collapse at any minute.

Sora: Yeah.

Sora turned away from the monument and looked Aiko in the eyes. There was a warmth to his gaze that sucked Aiko in. She felt a little more reassured. Sora saw himself reflected in Aiko's eyes, and felt the weight of responsibility settle on his shoulders. He made sure to choose his words carefully. But no matter how carefully he phrased it, his request was certainly the epitome of selfishness.

Sora: Sensei... I want you to hold on to that guilt you feel forever. I want you to feel burdened by it. I want you to do things the right way. Fight for the right reasons, agonize over those you kill, and cry about what you've done. To me, you're the most human person here. You feel all these emotions I've long since lost... You're the role model I look up to as what it means to be truly human. That's why I want you to continue suffering. Because you're the example I'm learning from. I think, if I keep watching you, I'll at least be able to act more like a human should when we return to Japan.

Aiko: Yatagami...

Aiko's eyes opened wide in surprise. Sora hadn't tried to comfort her, or condemn her. No, he'd asked her to continue suffering. Yet it was these words that chased away the dark clouds that hung about her heart. This selfish request had done what no amount of comfort or condemnation could have.

Accepting the consequences and necessity of her actions would be the hardest thing Aiko had ever done. Especially because of how traumatizing the event had been. There had already been so many times she'd wanted to just run away from what she'd did, or broken under the strain. There would probably many more times like this in the future, too. But her personality and her resolve wouldn't let her. That would just make the ordeal more painful.

She only knew she could do it because there would always be someone there to prop her back up if she was about to collapse. Someone who'd lost his humanity, but was trying his best to remember what it meant to be human.

Aiko(mind): This really is the most selfish request I've ever heard.

It was a merciless, kind request. Clear teardrops streaked down Aiko's cheeks. She'd held in her tears all this time, but now the dam finally burst. Sora turned away awkwardly and mentioned one last thing.

Sora: Well, if you absolutely feel like you can't bear it anymore... and there's no one else you can rely on... and I mean no one else... I don't mind lending you a shoulder to cry on.

Aiko: You... really are...

Aiko smiled weakly and leaned against Sora's back. He was purposely acting like he hadn't seen her already start crying.

Aiko: In that case, I'd like to borrow your shoulder for a little bit, Sora.

Sora: Go for it, Sensei.

Aiko leaned into Sora, entrusting herself to him. Crying, she reaffirmed her dedication to always being everyone's teacher. And to always bear the sins of what she'd done. She felt that as long a certain selfish student of hers was watching, she could keep on going. Their shadows elongated as the sun slipped below the horizon. Aiko's sobs were the only thing that could be heard in the darkening palace grounds.

Once Aiko had finished crying everything out, the two of them had returned to the palace. Aiko's flushed face and embarrassed expression raised a lot of eyebrows, and Sora broke out into a cold sweat when he realized how this looked to Aishia and the others. As always, Aishia, Celia, and Shea had then dragged Sora into their room.

Shea's noisy complaints did bother him a little, but what truly terrified him was Celia's silent glare. In the end, David and the others returned to serve under Aiko again. It appeared their love for her had won over any loyalty they might have felt to the Holy Church.

Traveling with Aiko had introduced them to many different ways of thinking, and their perspective on the world was different from when they'd first been assigned as her guards. Plus, they'd started growing suspicious of the Holy Church when Ishtar had refused to let them meet Aiko and ordered them to remain on standby in the capital.

Naturally, the knowledge that Ehit cared nothing for them and that the Holy Church had been decimated had still come as a shock. But in the end, they'd come to accept that they couldn't hate Aiko, and that she'd made the right decision.

It was of course possible that they were just looking for something to cling to. For they had converted and become adherents of the Fertility Goddess Aiko. Either way, they had sworn to protect her with their lives. Their love for Aiko had sublimated into a kind of cult fanaticism, but it was possible that was what they needed to accept the destruction of the Holy Church.

Shea: I can't believe you! Why do you keep doing this!?

Kaori: Sora... You really should be more careful about what you say to people.

Tio: Fufufu, I expected no less from My King. We take our eyes off him for a moment, and he has already gotten another woman to fall for him...

Celia: Well, since it's Sora we're talking about, it can't be helped.

The fours girls complained about Sora while eating dinner in the main hall. Sora averted his gaze away from their pointed glares and continued enjoying the splendid feast laid out before him. Next to him, Aishia said nothing, but she did shoot Sora a dirty look. Considering the situation, she couldn't really blame Sora for doing what he had, but that didn't change the fact that Aiko clearly thought of him more as a love interest than a student.

It was a complicated situation all around, and Aishia did have a little sympathy for Aiko. After all, Sora's plan for dealing with her feelings was to pretend he hadn't noticed them.

Aishia: Sora, do you think Aiko will break?

When Sora had told her what had happened between him and Aiko, Aishia had grown a little worried. Sora lowered his fork and thought about it for a few seconds.

Sora: Hmm, I think she'll be fine. Knowing her though, I don't think we have to worry. She'll get better in time.

Aishia: I see. That's good.

Aishia's gaze softened, and Sora smiled.

Sora(mind): You really see through everything, Aishia...

That made Sora embarrassed.

Celia: Typical of Aishia...

Shea: Aishia... I should have known. You're always two steps ahead.

Tio: Impressive. I know not whether she does it unconsciously or on purpose... but she always knows how to tug at My King's heartstrings. She truly is a master of seduction. I cannot help but be amazed.

Aishia: That doesn't feel like praise.

Shea looked shocked, and Tio watched Aishia in admiration. Aishia grimaced slightly in response, but Sora simply stroked her hair reassuringly and smiled wryly.

Tio: Oh? You seem rather composed today, Celia.

Tio, who was seated exactly across from her. Taken by surprise, Celia tilted her head.

Celia: Huh? What do you mean?

Tio: I just expected you to start a back-and-forth with Aishia like always.

Tio replied honestly.

Aishia: Celia's become Sora's Fiancée, so she's gained the upper hand. Shea, we need to step up our game.

Aishia casually stated.

Shea: F-Fiancée?

Tio: Wh-What's this? You got engage My King? As expected of a womani— Thank you ver much!

Sora immediately throw his shoes at Tio's face making her moan in ecstasy.

Shea: What?! What do you mean you become his Fiancée, Celia?!

Shea who's sitting beside Celia along with Kaori, Hajime, Yue and Tio whom seated on the other side of Sora, Aishia , Celia and Shea turned their attention to Celia.

Celia: Th-That's wrong. I'm not a Fiancée; I'm his assistant! His assistant!

Celia pointed out in a fluster.

Aishia: Is that because Sora's more like your caretaker, always taking care of you?

Celia: I-I can't deny that...

Celia had no means to refute Aishia's puzzled question.

Shea: More importantly! What's the meaning of Celia becoming your assistant, Sora?!

Shea impatiently pressed Sora for answers.

Sora: Erm... I meant to mention this earlier, but from now on, Celia will be leaving the Kingdom and staying by my side. It was more convenient for the Kingdom this way too.

Shea: Hmm...? Does that mean Celia will be joining on our journey?

Sora: In short, yes.

Shea: Really? Yay!

Shea rejoiced. The others were also smiling.

Yue: If anything, I would like for you to teach me some of your magic.

Celia: Same goes for me. I would like to learn some of your spells.

The two best mage in this generation smile at one another. Kouki and the other students walked into the dining hall, interrupting the party's lively meal. Aiko was with them as well, so everyone who'd been summoned from earth was gathered here. Hajime looked over at them and raised an eyebrow. He'd actually asked what time Kouki and the others usually ate so that he could pick a time they weren't there. However, it seemed his plan had failed.

Hajime(mind): Well, it's not that big a deal.

Hajime thought and returned to his meal. Sora went back to eating as well. The classmates all milled about uncertainly. Some were brimming with curiosity, others weren't sure how to approach Sora and his friends, while others felt uncomfortable in their presence. They kept on shooting Sora and Hajime furtive looks throughout their meal. The students all knew by now that they had absolutely no interest in any of them, and didn't see themselves as one of their comrades anymore, which was why they hesitated to speak to him. Aiko and Yuka were shooting Sora glances as well, but for a very different reason.

Kaori: Ah, Shizuku! Come sit with us!

Shizuku: Is it really alright if I sit next to you guys?

Kaori: Of course it is.

Hajime wasn't sure he'd ever get used to Noint's grim face smiling so openly. Shizuku didn't seem to mind though, and she took a seat next to Kaori. The other students had found it hard to believe that Kaori had really been reborn in a different body, but that smile was just so her that they had to accept it was really Kaori in there.

Even in Noint's body, Kaori's warm smile had the power to make an entire room relax. Compared to the time everyone had thought Sora and Hajime had died, Kaori's temporary death had been far less of a shock.

Kouki sat down next to Shizuku, and Suzu and Aiko settled in across from them. That put Aiko directly next to Aishia. The other classmates all settled in on either side of Hajime's party. Suzu appeared to be rather nervous in the presence of Yue. When she first sat down she stammered some odd words.

Suzu: S-Sorry for interrupting your meal, ma'am...

Yue tilted her head, wondering why Suzu had referred to her as "ma'am." The moment Kouki and the others were seated, the palace servants brought out food for them. It was the same high-quality fare they had served Sora. As everyone began eating, Aiko accidentally met Sora's eyes. She blushed beet-red and turned away. After a few more furtive glances, Aiko whispered,

Aiko: U-Umm, Yatagami... If possible... could you not tell anyone...

Aishia felt a little miffed that the two of them were talking with her sitting right in between them, but she held it in. She knew how embarrassing it must have been for Aiko to cry in front of Sora, and she could understand wanting to make sure he didn't say anything to anyone else. Sora mentally thanked Aishia for not saying anything and turned his gaze to Aiko.

When their eyes met again, Aiko blushed to the tips of her ears. Shizuku and the others knew it was already too late to do anything about Aiko's infatuation, but that didn't stop them from glaring at Sora. Fortunately, the other students couldn't see Aiko from their angle, so most of them didn't even notice. Only Kouki and the other frontliners sitting nearby saw, but they didn't immediately understand the reason for Aiko's blushing. Atsushi and the other male members of Ai-chan's guard squad all glared resentfully at Sora.

Atsushi: That bastard, he's totally gotten her to fall for him now.

Yuka, Nana, and Taeko tried to look uninterested, but it was obvious they were trying to sneak glances at Aiko and Sora. Yuka specifically, as she felt a hint of jealousy.

Sora: What are you talking about, Sensei? Did something happen?

Aiko: Huh?

Sora put on a perfect act. For a second, Aiko was confused, but then she realized he was playing dumb on purpose and smiled knowingly.

Aiko: No, of course not.

Though it was a little vexing that Sora was always looking out for her, Aiko felt a little happy about it too. She smiled faintly. The more they watched, the angrier all of the girls got at Sora. Only Aishia was still on his side. She patted his shoulder affectionately and started feeding him food. Such was the power of the main heroine. She was on a completely different level from the others.

Sora(mind): I really do have the best girlfriend in the world!

Sora fell for Aishia all over again. As he was mentally thanking Aishia, Shea tugged on his sleeve from the other side.

Shea: Sora, say ahhh...

Shea was tired of all these new rivals popping up, and was determined to remind them that she was vying for his affections too. Blushing slightly, she brought her fork to Sora's mouth. She made sure her bunny ears brushed against him as she did so. Shea was just as crafty as the others. Sora was used to this at this point, and he let her feed him without a fight. Shea's ears and tail twitched happily as she watched Sora eat her food.

Celia:...

Celia pout when she saw the girls that all had romantic feelings for Sora feeds him. In which Aishia noticed.

Aishia: Celia. Its's your turn.

Celia: Wh-What?! What are you saying, Aishia?!

Celia asked clearly flustered.

Aishia: Your his Assistant. And it's an assistant job to feed her Master.

Aishia said urging Celia to feed Sora. Of course what she was truly implying was " Your his Fiancée, and it's a Fiancé's job to love him". Only Sora's group clearly understand what she was trying to say. Still, Celia didn't move. She was too flustered to move. So Aishia stood straight up, then briskly walked over to Celia and stopped in front of her.

Celia: W-What?

Celia looked up at Aishia nervously.

Aishia: It's super simple. Just like this.

Aishia grabbed Celia's hand and gently made her feed Sora her food.

Celia: What?!

Celia raised a voice of objection in surprise, but Aishia continued to push her fork to Sora's mouth. Sora just sigh before eating the food that was on Celia's fork.

Sora: It was delicious, Celia.

Celia: Th-Thanks!

Celia was to flustered to say anything else. Celia's cheeks turned red as she nodded. However, her mouth was turned upwards in a happy smile. With Hajime, he was being fed by Yue, in turn Kaori and Tio had joined in.

Shizuku: This is... starting to get really awkward...

Shizuku muttered, her expression stiff. Suzu, Kouki, and Ryutarou all grimaced awkwardly. For a moment, Aiko considered trying to feed Sora as well, but then snapped back to reality and mentally berated herself for even considering such a thing. The others ignored her one-woman comedy act. Yuka, who was looking down started to get more jealous, pouting, wishing she could sit closer to Sora, which Nana and Taeko took notice of and giggled a bit.

Nana and Taeko(mind): She has a tough road ahead.

Fortunately, the other girls all started squealing to each other, dispelling the awkward atmosphere. They'd been afraid of Sora and Hajime before, but now they were gossiping about their love life. On the day Sora and Hajime had fallen into the abyss, no one would have even imagined that they would have returned with a harem of girls. It stood to reason that all of the girls in the class were burning with curiosity regarding his relationships.

Even the guys had stopped being so timid around Sora. Though that was mostly because they were burning with jealous rage instead. Every single one of the girls in their harem was a beauty without peer. Shea especially drew a lot of attention. Otaku or not, most guys found bunny girls irresistible. The way her bunny ears twitched when she smiled at Sora had everyone smitten.

But no matter how jealous they were, no matter how badly they wanted to ask either Sora or Hajime the secret to getting Tortus girls to fall for him, none of the guys had the courage to speak to them. They felt bad for making fun of them before, back when they'd all thought they were incompetent. Furthermore, the innate pressure Sora exuded made it hard to go up to him.

Only those who had spent some time with Sora were able to converse normally with him. And those that could, like Nagayama and Yuka, were eager to ask him questions. But before they could engage him, Sora and Hajime turned their attention to Kaori, who was blushing while looking at her fork. After a moment's deliberation she came to a decision and apologetically popped the fork into her mouth. She blushed even deeper.

Hajime was about to say something scathing like "What are you, twelve!?" but Yue beat him to the punch. Kaori noticed Yue's gaze on her and met her eyes. It was then that Yue pounced.

Yue: Pervert...

Kaori: Y-You've got it all wrong! I'm not a pervert! I-I was just eating my dinner!

Yue: Dinner seasoned with a side of Hajime.

Kaori: Th-That's not true! Besides, Tio's way more of a pervert than I am! Look, she's licking her fork all over!

Tio: Slurp! Slurp! Slurp! Hm?

Red-faced, Kaori pointed to Tio. She stopped slobbering all over her fork and looked questioningly at Kaori.

Tio: What seems to be the matter?

Tio showed Kaori the fork, emphasizing that there was nothing on it. She was definitely tasting something other than the food. Hajime tried not to think about it. Over time, Tio had transformed from a perverted masochist into a plain regular pervert.

Hajime: Tio, stop that before I send you flying.

Hajime rubbed his temple and gave Tio her only warning.

Tio: Mrrr, if you insist. But you have yet to kiss me, Master. Unless I do this, I will be unable to sate my burning lust.

Her reply only irked Hajime more. Just then, Tio's eyes lit up as she remembered something.

Tio: Oh yes! I remember now! You still have not given me the reward you promised, Master! I demand you do so now!

Hajime: Huh? Reward?

Hajime scrunched up his face, but then clicked his tongue when he remembered what Tio was referring to. The others looked at him quizzically, and Kaori asked the question they were all thinking.

Kaori: What's this... about a reward?

Tio: You see, when we were fighting at the Divine Mountain, Master promised me a reward if I could keep Sensei-dono safe. And as you can see, she is still hale. Nufufufu... Master. You would never go back on your word, now would you?

Kaori: Hey, that's not fair!

Kaori yelled, but Tio wasn't swayed. With everyone's attention on him, Hajime turned reluctantly to Tio. He put his chin in his hands and responded to her.

Hajime: Alright, what is it you want? Don't forget, I only promised to do anything as long as it's reasonable.

Tio nodded in an exaggerated fashion, indicating that she understood. Then, fidgeting a little in embarrassment, Tio spoke her request.

Tio: Fear not, I shan't ask for the impossible. I just want you to punish my arse... like you did when we first met.

Tio put her hands to her cheeks and squirmed in shame.

Tio(mind): I can't believe I really said it!

As far as she was concerned, it was a reasonable request because Hajime had already done it before. Forget the fact that it was a pretty hardcore fetish.

Hajime(mind): I should have expected this from a pervert like her.

As Hajime had feared, everyone but Yue and the others shrunk back in disgust. They looked at Hajime as if he were some kind of heinous criminal.

Hajime: Hell no, you perverted dragon. And stop saying that in a way that people'll misunderstand.

Shocked at his refusal, Tio vehemently protested.

Tio: B-But why? Surely this is a reasonable request! All you have to do is drive that thick, hard, black pole into me like you did last time! Then, when I beg you to take it out you simply must ignore me and keep pushing deeper! All I wish is for you to mercilessly torment my arse!

Hajime: How many times do I have to tell you, stop causing misunderstandings!

Hajime had been upgraded from "heinous criminal" to "monster" in the other students' eyes.

Aiko: But you can't deny that that is the truth, right Nagumo?

Aiko followed up with a barbed statement.

Yuka: She isn't lying...

Nana: Yeah, he really did stab her with it.

Taeko: Yeah, Nagumo, you have no mercy!

Yuka, Nana, and Taeko decided to dogpile onto Hajime as well. They ostensibly sounded like they were whispering, but Hajime could tell they'd meant for everyone to hear. The students' suspicion transformed into certainty, and they all glared at Hajime.

Shea: Hajime, you can't really call it a misunderstanding...

Yue: Hajime, it's because of you that Tio's a pervert.

Aishia: Hajime, please take responsibility for your action.

Even Aishia, Shea and Yue had betrayed him now. Hajime glance at Sora asking for help, but his best friend only averted his gaze, saying he wants no part in any of this.

Shizuku: N-Nagumo... How could you do such a thing... to Tio...

Kaori: Hajime, I'm so jealous... I mean, you need to answer for your actions...

Celia: H-Hajime, as one of your teachers, I'm clearly disappointed with you.

Everyone was looking at Hajime as if he were the demon lord himself. Hajime abruptly stood up, his chair clattering backward. He raised his right hand high, and pulled his black pile bunker out of his Treasure Trove. It was already covered in red sparks. A bead of cold sweat dripped down Tio's face.

Hajime: Okay, Tio. I'll give you the reward you wanted. You wanted it in your ass, right? I'll gladly stick it in harder and deeper than last time. It'll be over so fast you won't even have time to scream.

It was only then that Tio realized she'd gone too far. He'd only driven it into her ass last time because they'd been in the middle of a fight. Seeing everyone look at him as if he were some kind of pervert had tipped him over the edge. Perhaps the most maddening thing was that he couldn't actually say Tio was wrong.

Tio: W-Wait, Master. I know this is what you used last time, but that doesn't necessarily mean I want you to use it every time. If you put that inside me, I'll truly die! I'll apologize for being so impertinent, so please put that dangerous weapon away!

Hajime: No need to be shy, Tio. Didn't you say you wanted this? You'll be instantly and eternally satisfied, you won't even have time to moan. Going to your room would take too much time, so let's just do it here.

Tio: Oh nooooooooo, Master's serious! My King, Aishia, Celia, Yue, Shea, Kaoriiiiii, help me! Stop him!

Sobbing, Tio turned to Sora and the others for help. Even she wasn't so much of a masochist that she wanted to die. Or perhaps she was. The fact that she was panting a little meant she was beyond help now. She fled to Sora and tried to hide behind his chair. Her terror was enough to satisfy Hajime, and he returned his pile bunker to the Treasure Trove with a hmph.

Though now the other students were convinced he was scarier than a demon lord. Rumors of a white-haired demon lord with an eyepatch started circulating through the capital after that, but fortunately for Hajime's sanity, he never found out.

Hajime: Alright, what do you really want? I don't mind giving you a reward, as long as it's nothing perverted.

Sighing, Hajime flopped back into his chair. Around him, everyone breathed a sigh of relief. No one present had wanted to see a beautiful young woman's ass ravaged by that deadly weapon.

Tio: V-Very well. In that case, may I request for the right to sleep next to you? Usually it's always Yue and Kaori next to you. I've never once had the opportunity to do it. Is that a reasonable enough request for you?

Hajime: Yeah, that's not a problem. You should have just said that from the start.

Tio: My surging passion cannot be quelled so easily. Please try and understand.

Hajime turned back to Kaori, who shrugged.

Kaori: I guess I have to let her.

Kaori said in a resigned voice. It appeared Hajime would be spending tonight sandwiched between Yue and Tio. Once they got in bed he had no doubt he'd be sandwiched by something else entirely, though.

Shea: Then I would like to sleep with Sora alone for once.

Celia: Wh?! What are you saying, Shea?!

Shea: It's always been Aishia whom sleep with him. I did sleep with the two of them, but never once by myself. And for once I would love too!

Sora: Uh...

Celia: Sora! This improper!

Sora: W-Wait! I swear, me and Aishia had never once done anything weird.

Sora said hesitantly, first trying to calm Celia down. Aishia only slept in the same room as him on the condition that she was in her spirit form, but he wasn't able to explain that on the spur of the moment.

Celia: A-A-Anything weird... B-But, you're sleeping in the same room together... right?

Celia questioned in a barely audible voice, unable to look Sora and Aishia directly in the eye. Celia seemed to be imagining something as she blushed.

Sora: We're in the same room, but its impossible for something physical to happen accidentally between us since, well, Aishia is in her spirit form.

Celia: Spirit... form...

When Sora explained the circumstances succinctly, Celia simply blinked.

Sora: Spirits like Aishia use magic essence as their source of energy. By binding a spirit contract, they are able to replenish their essence through their contract connection. And the closer they are to the contract party, the more efficient this is... Right, Aishia?

Aishia: There's that, too, but being beside Sora is calming.

Aishia nonchalantly revealed her true feelings, tightly clinging to Sora. At such an easily misunderstood statement, Sora froze. Celia came to a sudden stop and stiffened, too.

Celia: ...H-Huh, is that, so... H- How close of you?

Celia said in a horribly upset squeak. Worried about Celia, Sora hurriedly called out to her.

Sora: C-Celia.

Celia: W-What?

Celia once again feigned composure and awkwardly inclined her head.

Sora: No, umm, how should I put this...

Sora scratched at his head with a troubled expression.

Aishia: Then, why don't you sleep with Sora for today?

Aishia suddenly suggested.

Sora: E-Eeh?

Sora's eyes rounded in surprise.

Aishia: Celia should just sleep with you for today. It's no big deal. Your her Fiancé now.

Sora: No no no...

Sora murmured. There was most definitely a problem.

Aishia: You don't want to, Sora?

Sora: That's not the problem here...

Sora looked at Celia with an expression that was borderline pained. Celia froze, her face turned bright red. She returned to her senses when she noticed Sora's gaze, making her yell in astonishment.

Celia: W-What are you saying, Aishia?!

Aishia: If you don't want to sleep with him, then I want.

Celia: N-No!

Aishia: Then, you want to sleep with him?

Aishia seemed to come to her own answer as she looked between Sora and Celia.

Celia: Uhh...

Celia mumbled, not really wanting to reply. Until Shea whisper to her ears.

Shea: Might as well sleep with him, since your his Fiancé now. If you don't, who knows what they might do in there. Your rooms next to theirs, right. At night, you might hear something naughty. If you won't make a move, then I'll will after Aishia.

Sora: Shea! Stop corrupting her!

Shea: Fufu!

It would seems, Aishia and Shea loves teasing Celia, and by how close they are, people might've guess they've already best friends. After a brief moment of conflict, Celia made up her mind and called out to Sora, Shea and Aishia.

Celia: G-Geez! I get it, I get it already!

The three stopped and face Celia.

Sora: Umm... What do you get?

Sora asked timidly

Celia: I-I'll sleep with Sora for today.

Celia declared with a squeak of embarrassment.

Sora: E-Eeh?!

Sora let out a hysterical noise. He had never imagined Celia would say something like that.

Celia: W-What? Aishia and Shea can sleep in the same room as you, but I can't?

Celia glared at Sora's face reproachfully.

Sora: I-It's not a matter of whether you can or can't. Aishia sleeps in her spirit form anyway... and I never get anything physical with Shea too...

Sora said, trying to persuade Celia.

Aishia: If Celia and Shea sleeps with us, I won't turn into spirit form. It's no fair for only Celia and Shea to be in a material form.

Aishia said without missing a beat.

Shea: So we can sleep together, next time!

Sora: N-No no no... Are you sure, Celia? I feel like this might be the worst possible situation I can think of?!

Sora questioned in a panic.

Celia: Uhh... I-I don't care if it is! Geez!

Celia said unflinchingly.

Sora: W-Why?

Sora asked in shock.

Aishia: Then it's decided. Today, Celia will sleep with Sora. And next time, it will be us three. Agree?

Shea: Agree!

Shea said without missing a beat. The girls began gossiping with each other again, while the guys muttered angrily to themselves. After that, Sora was treated to a lecture from Aiko about how indecent it was to sleep with multiple women. Though she sounded respectable, her issue wasn't so much that Sora was sleeping around than it was simple jealousy. Aiko wasn't the only one to be jealous, as Yuka was also jealous, picking at her food, pouting, which Nana and Taeko noticed, giggling.

Shea interrupted midway to point out that after the things Hajime had done with Yue, something as innocent as sleeping was hardly a problem. That led to Yue smiling seductively and flirting openly with him, which in turn led to the students getting even noisier, and a number of the male students got very uncomfortable boners. Needless to say, it was quite a chaotic dinner.

(Timeskip)

Later that night, Sora and Celia were in his room. Celia seemed flustered, that she was about to sleep with Sora alone and on the same bed. Sora didn't seem particularly mind. So he just lay on his bed. And Celia came down laying beside him.

Celia: Y-You really didn't do anything weird?

Sora: We don't do anything weird. I'm not as crazy as Hajime and Yue that they do it every chance they get. Even if I do love Aishia and you. I want to do it properly. Do you want to sleep in a separate room now?

Sora said with a faint smile, giving Celia an out.

Celia: N-No.

Celia pouted delicately and shook her head.

Sora: Umm, you don't have to be so worried. Almost nothing problematic ever happens.

Celia: Almost?

Celia said, staring.

Sora: N-No, I mean, nothing ever happens.

Sora rescinded his statement with an oddly high-pitched voice. He couldn't tell her that sometimes, Aishia would materialize half-asleep and naked.

Celia: I-I'm not worried anymore. It seems like Aishia is a bit airheaded, and Shea may be bold, but she wouldn't do anything weird without your consent, and I do trust you...

Celia began to say, slightly sulking.

Sora:...Then, why?

Sora asked, hesitantly prodding for what was really on Celia's mind. Celia blushed, turned away, and spoke.

Celia: B-Because... It's l-lonely having to sleep all by myself when the three of you are sleeping t-together under the same roof.

Sora:...I see.

Sora couldn't help but relax and smile with amusement.

Celia: Ah, you laughed!

Celia pouted further.

Sora: I'm sorry.

Sora apologized with a chuckle.

Celia: Geez. It's no laughing matter to me, you know?

Sora: Is that so?

Sora asked, looking up at Celia's face.

Celia: Yeah.

Celia nodded nervously. Her face darkened with anxiety.

Celia: B- Because if everything had gone according to that Evil Gods script, I would have become an undead zombie.

Sora: Celia...

With an indescribable expression, Sora looked at Celia's face. The person she was referring to was undoubtedly Eri Nakamura.

Celia: It scares me to imagine that this happiness right now might just be a dream I have to wake up from. That's why, for today... at least for tonight, I'd like you to let me sleep beside you like this, Sora. When I wake up in the morning, I'd like to see your face first and be reassured...

Celia said, clutching onto Sora's pajamas tightly.

Sora: It's okay, this isn't a dream. If it were a dream, then I'd will find a way to turn you back to normal, no matter how many times it takes.

Sora promised with determination, squeezing Celia's hand.

Celia: Sora...

Sora: Celia...

Celia teared up. The two stared at each other for a moment. Celia closed her eyes while leaning to him. Sora immediately knew what she wants, so he close his eyes as well and leaned on towards her to ease her tense. He gently kiss her on her lips. Celia immediately melted into the kiss and returned it. She wrap her arms around Sora's shoulder to deepen the kiss.

After a few minutes, the broke the kiss for air, and Celia smile with tears on her eyes.

Celia: T-That was my first kiss.

Sora: Yeah. Sorry that this was not my first.

Celia: It's fine. Because your here now.

Sora: Now, then. If you're feeling better, shall we get to sleep soon? We're going to have an early morning tomorrow.

Sora smiled gently. Celia also smiled as she nodded, lying back down once more.

Celia: Okay. You're right. Now that I feel better, I suddenly feel very sleepy. Good night, Sora.

Sora: Yep. Good night, Celia.

Sora whispered softly into Celia's ear.

(Timeskip)

The next morning...

Celia: Nguh...

Celia was the first to wake up. She blinked her eyes open to see Sora's sleeping face right in front of her.

Celia: ?!

Celia started with a shake.

Celia(mind): Ah, that's right, I said I'd sleep with Sora last night...

She immediately remembered the series of events that led to this situation and slowly relaxed. Sora was breathing peacefully in his sleep.

Celia: Fufu...

Celia giggled with amusement and gently reached a hand toward Sora's cheek. She was afraid he would wake up if she touched him, so she stopped a hair's breadth away from making contact.

Celia(mind): Warm.

Sora's warmth could be felt, making her realize anew that this wasn't a dream, much to her relief. Sora's body seemed to twitch for a moment.

Celia: Thank you, Sora. If there's anything I can do to pay you back, I'll do anything. Just say the word.

Celia muttered quietly. After that, with a small sigh, Celia closed her eyes once more and gave in to her sleepiness. The idea of continuing to stare at Sora's face was tempting, but right now, she felt like she could get some decent rest. Sure enough, Celia fell into a peaceful sleep minutes later, her breathing coming out in soft wisps.

Sora(mind): I guess she fell asleep, huh?

Sora opened his eyes hesitantly, checking Celia's sleeping face and smiling gently. Sora smile thinking back on the events that happen yesterday. He'd brought Kaori back from the Divine Mountain and showed everyone her new body. Gotten engage with Celia. Helping Yuka gained her confidence. And after all that, he'd run into Aiko while looking for a way to kill time, and ended up consoling her. Finally, at dinner he'd struck terror into the hearts of his former classmates.

All that, in a single day. It seemed that trouble and mayhem were fated to follow him, wherever he went. Today he would leave for the empire together with Liliana. He had no intention of actually stepping foot in the empire's capital, but he'd learned now to never say, or think, never.

Sora(mind): I wonder what'll be waiting for us in the east...

Sora smiled his usual fearless smile, ready for anything the world might throw at him.

A/N: Okay. Here's the final for season 2 of He who defies Gods. Official, Celia is now part of the Harem. Next season 3. Probably Shea, will enter the Harem in season 3. Judging by the poster and Light Novel, Season 3 should cover Volume 7 and 8. That's all. And as always, I hope you enjoyed this chapter and thank you for reading.