Chapter 54: Inferiority
Alter, now identifying as a new S-Class Slayer, watched with an unwavering, piercing gaze.
"If I remember correctly, Legacy No. 8’s ability is... Future Computation."
"Precisely. It simulates every possible future, and these are the Breadcrumbs—the markers that guide me toward the optimal conclusion."
If that’s the case, then if I just destroy that machine...
"It’s futile. I don't make the same blunders as Burnatville. Besides, you don't even have a Phantasm Girl with you. How do you intend to stop me?"
"I'll figure something out."
I fired a single shot at the massive target of No. 8. However, the bullet was effortlessly intercepted by a barrier and dropped to the ground like a swatted insect.
"Then how about this!"
I threw a grenade.
"How pointless."
"That’s what you think!"
I followed up with a two-stage play, pulling a laser pistol I’d hidden on my left hip while the grenade acted as a distraction—!
"Naïve."
"Wait... what?"
The distance between us vanished in an instant, and a heavy blow buried itself in my stomach.
"Gha... *heave*... cough...!"
"Did you not understand? In my current state, I can see the future."
Alter spoke with a cold, ruthless tone, devoid of even a hint of mockery or laughter. She was simply stating a fact: she saw right through my little tricks.
"Then I’ll just wait for King and the others—"
"They aren't coming. I’ve already received word that things are wrapped up on their end."
"You’ve... you’ve got to be lying."
"Now then, let’s see you struggle, Amane Kazuto."
POV - King
"Royal King Punch!"
"Onigoroshi: Ethanol!"
Lancelot launched an unorthodox, drunken-style assault, which I followed with a straight punch. My fist, which dictated the flow of the space around it, created a synergistic effect that further accelerated Lancelot’s strike.
We’ve got her.
Or so we thought.
"Still not enough."
It should have been a perfect hit, yet the attack was blocked. No... was it being minutely redirected?
"Allow me to return the favor."
"Ghu...!!?"
Our arms were forced together at the point of maximum impact, and both Lancelot and I were sent flying back.
The feeling of déjà vu was overwhelming.
"Hah! I never imagined you would be this formidable, Undo!!"
"Of course I am. I’ve replaced Asuna as Alter’s partner."
Yes, this sensation... I know it.
"Is that the Togetsu Style!?"
"Bingo."
This was the same feeling I got when I sparred with Esil—a transparency that allowed the user to slip through one’s grasp like mist. It was the Togetsu Style, the ultimate defensive and anti-personnel martial art.
And his proficiency... was even higher than Esil’s.
"Lancelot! I’ll take the lead! I have experience fighting this style! You need to grasp his habits first. Otherwise, this will be like trying to pick up beans with cutlery you’ve never used before!!"
First, we had to get used to his movements, and then the real fight would—
"You think I’ll give you time to adjust?"
".....!"
Close-quarters combat was impossible. Our only choice was to force some distance and then spray him with lead!
First, I had to tear her away from me—!
"Guh... ugh!!"
I was slammed violently into the floor!
"King!"
"Fire! Now!"
"Understood!"
Lancelot fired without a moment’s hesitation, following my order to shoot right through me. Since I was pinned to the floor, the bullets would miss me and hit her!
But even that plan was thwarted.
"Togetsu Style: Mizunagashi."
Like ripples spreading across a pond, the bullets were all caught and redirected... straight toward me.
The roar of gunfire tore through the air as a hail of bullets struck home.
"Ah..."
"N-no... King..."
"And that’s the end."
Bang!
Comments (0)
Please login or sign up to post a comment.