It was a stone shrine that seemed to be an integral part of the garden, but for some reason, this shrine was different from the other things in the garden in that it was noticeably older.
But Shii’s eyes were not focused on the shrine.
What she was looking at was the center of the shrine – something white, bone-like material.
Floating by itself in the center of the shrine, as if it were a sacred object, it was so battered that at first glance it was difficult to tell what it was… But from the shape of the handle and sword guard, it was probably a sword.
However, it did not have a blade. The blade was broken completely at the root, so this sword could not even be used as a knife.
Even if one were to touch the only small portion of the blade that remained with bare hands, it was so mangled that one would most likely not be injured at all.
It was a sword that seemed to have no offensive power left… However, the pressure emanating from it said otherwise, indicating that it was not just a broken sword.
It was a pressure even stronger than the hostility Lefi showed when she saw any adversaries.
Shii, who had never shown fear up to this point, became frightened for the first time.
As if to say, “It’s okay,” Sakuya reached out with his short hands and grabbed Shii’s hand as she stood beside the stroller.
After being encouraged by Sakuya, Shii recovered slightly and asked the skeleton beast, “Uncle… What is that?”
[It’s the nucleus of the garden. It’s what allows this place to survive, and it’s what keeps me conscious.] (Mukuro)
With these words, the skeleton beast approached the shrine and carefully put the rotting sword in its mouth.
He then returned to the two and gently put the sword onto the stroller. He was cautious not to injure Sakuya.
[Shii, when Sakuya becomes big, give this sword to him.] (Mukuro)
“…Is it okay? It’s important, isn’t it?” (Shii)
[Ah. It’s okay. Just before my body was about to decay, someone appeared who possessed the scent of the Divine Age. This is my role.] (Mukuro)
“Divine Age…?” (Shii)
[Far, far away in the past. The role of relics was to help those who lived in that time and to weave a new life, and celebrate life. How nostalgic.] (Mukuro)
Shii did not know what Mukuro’s words meant.
But somehow, she thought it meant something good from the way he spoke it.
His words were easily accepted by Shii and filled her heart with joy and with vitality.
“Weave your own life… It’s a nice saying!” (Shii)
[I also think so. It’s what My Lord, my friend used to say when he was drunk. He always looked fed up when said it, but secretly, he liked to say it.] (Mukuro)
“You were close with him!” (Shii)
[Ah, just like your family.] (Mukuro)
The skeleton beast continued to speak, its voice sounding like it was in a good mood.
[That sword has tremendous power, but it’s in a state of sleep right now. Do not use it recklessly. The sword is a great weapon, but sometimes it can bring about disaster.] (Mukuro)
“Yeah… I understand that. I’ll also inform Sakuya’s mom and dad about it.” (Shii)
The skeleton beast nodded in satisfaction.
[The sword’s name is Hell Daze. Scripture says: Show me your courage, my sword]. (Mukuro)
“Show me your courage…” (Shii)
[‘This sword is a heavy responsibility to wield, but when you are in a situation that you need help, you can wield it as you see fit’ Teach those words to Sakuya.] (Mukuro)
“Yes… I understand.” (Shii)
The beast, who directed a benevolent gaze at the two, continued in a much lighter tone.
[I’m not sure what to say. When I have flesh, I have another name, not Mukuro. I want you to listen to it.] (Mukuro)
“Mukuro uncle’s other name? …Let me hear it.” (Shii)
[I’m Cerberus, a guard dog under the command of the primordial demon tribe. Shii and Sakuya’s friend, Mukuro.] (Mukuro)
He called himself their friend and told them what wanted to convey.
Shii had a vague understanding of what was about to happen.
“… I’ll never forget it. I’ll definitely, definitely keep it in my mind.” (Shii)
The skeleton beast – Cerberus – laughed.
The next moment, Shii’s vision suddenly shook.
It was as if she were in a dream, before waking up.
The landscape of the garden faded into stupefaction, the serenity and the scent of the trees was also rapidly fading away.
However, his words echoed in their ears.
[Shii, Sakuya, it was good to see you two. Thank you.] (Mukuro)
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