s Avatar, which had been sitting on the pebbles with crossed legs, had now unconsciously sat up straight. He balled his fists on his knees, straightened his back and continued on.

‘Of course, I understand that if we get killed by those Warriors or some stronger Enemies, we would fall into the absolute worst ?Inside Imperial City Infinite EK? state. I also understand that we shouldn’t take the risk because of some half-baked gut feeling. But, even then, I still feel like going.... no, I feel.... like I have to go....’

To Haruyuki, these words were ones in which he placed considerable effort, although as always, they ended in mumbles. At that exact moment, when he dropped his shoulders, feeling it was impossible to persuade a forerunning Burst Linker 2 levels above him.

‘I understand.’

Utai nodded her head, which was met by Haruyuki’s ‘Eh!?’. The maiden smiled as she moved skilfully while keeping her kneeling position until their knees touched. She reached out with her right hand while in this position and placed it upon Haruyuki’s tightly clenched fists.

‘Kuu-san. Back then, when you were being chased by Suzaku’s flames, you disobeyed Lotus’ retreat order to save me when I appeared at the altar. That instant, I realised. I can believe in you.... You are someone I can rely on. No.... actually, I have known that since the first time we met.... in Umesato High School’s garden, when you frantically cleaning the pet house by yourself....’

‘No....that’s not true. So.... someone like me, can’t, be....’

Haruyuki’s mumble came in a burst as he bowed his head deeply.

‘I, always do things without considering.... always fail.... ?that time I was cleaning too, I splashed water all over you....’

As if recalling that incident, Utai laughed slightly and gripped Haruyuki’s hands tighter.

‘I have said so before. Losing, falling, failing.... true strength means to press on even after experiencing these. Even if we are killed on the way into the inner shrine, I’m sure you will be able to do something about it.’

Those words were gentle while harsh at the same time. Haruyuki looked up into Utai’s extremely close and gleaming eyes, and nodded heavily.

‘.... Yes. I’m sure I can. We will return alive.... back to the real world, where everyone is waiting for us.’

(Translator’s comment: ???Kawahara Reki.... stop using Japanglish.... )