Chapter 15: Formation of the Paladin’s Dust / Battle Against the Dragon ①
Upon hearing my call, Pulmy-san’s ears perked up. Recognizing my voice, her stern expression softened into a smile.
“Ichi-kun… you came for me.”
She seemed somewhat overwhelmed with emotion, but then her gaze shifted to Orphelia behind me, and—
“Ange is here too…”
Seeing Angelica, who could almost be called her beloved daughter, brought a complex look to her face. I couldn’t blame her for that.
“Pul-san…”
Angelica murmured, her eyes cast down. Whether it was out of guilt or regret, I couldn’t discern her expression hidden in the shadow of her hat.
Since leaving the town, Angelica had not returned to Pulmy-san. In fact, she hadn’t even sent a single message. Moreover, she had committed the foolish act of stealing the 《Affirmative Sword》 and breaking its seal.
I couldn’t fathom what feelings Pulmy-san harbored regarding Angelica’s series of actions.
“She’s coming.”
Orphelia announced. Then, far ahead, the three-headed dragon— the 《Liquid Dragon》, which should have been cleaved in two by Pulmy— began to liquefy and fully regenerate.
“We need to share information to fight that thing. Step back and wait. I’ll buy us some time.”
With a roar, the 《Liquid Dragon》 charged, and Pulmy-san swung her Demon Sword from an even greater distance than before. The radiant blade whipped through the air, leaving a trail of light, and in an instant, it disassembled the three-headed dragon, rendering it immobile.
This reality wasn’t exactly the same as the dream I had seen. The fact that I was here was proof of that. However, it was certain that this wouldn’t be the end of the 《Liquid Dragon》, just as it was in my dream.
“《Azure Flame》, it’s been a while. I came here at Anon’s request to lend my assistance.”
“Orphe, huh… I’ve heard about your exploits many times since then. With you around, we have the strength of a hundred men.”
Wait, this person can use honorifics?! My gaze must have shown my surprise, as Orphelia shot me a glare.
“More importantly, 《Azure Flame》 is calling you ‘Ichi-kun.'”
Wha—?! Wha—?! Wha—?! Wha—?!
“Come on! I mean, ‘Ichiro’ is such a common name! There’s even the former Major League player Ichiro Suzuki, and the guy who goes ‘Zeeeeeeet!’ and, oh, there’s even Yamada Ichiro who does rap battles… wait, that’s my name too!!”
I was in a total panic. As if to pile on my embarrassment, Orphelia continued.
“I only know one person named Ichiro.”
Pulmy-saaaaan!! Thanks to you, my secret is out nowwwww!! What’s with that expression, covering your mouth like ‘Oops, I got caught!’? That’s so cute, you silly girl!!
“Don’t worry. I dislike rumors. I believe in discerning the truth with my own eyes.”
Her eyes seemed to peer deep into my soul, leaving no room for lies—I felt the need to choose my words carefully.
“Just as you suspect, I am Holy Knight Yamada Ichiro… If it’s after the battle, I’ll explain everything. If you join the fight, I’ll pay you whatever you ask. So, for now, I just want you to lend me your strength without any questions.”
At my words, Orphelia’s voice grew firm.
“Don’t underestimate me. I made a promise to that fool Anon. I vowed to help you all. I will never break a promise once made.”
Well, she concluded, we could talk properly after the battle. I felt fortunate. There were many people who believed in me, even in this dire situation. Yet—
“This place is a good spot, you know.”
Behind us, the 《Liquid Dragon》, now revived, let out a ridiculous beastly roar.
“Go back to sleep, you idiot.”
I turned around and struck with a swift motion. I extended the 《Condenser》 I had infused into my index and middle fingers to their limits, cleaving the monster in two. If it was going to return anyway, I might as well reduce it to dust. I swung my arms repeatedly.
“Orphelia-san, I look forward to working with you again.”
I extended my hand toward her. The atmosphere around Orphelia seemed to shift. It felt like she was scrutinizing me closely…
What’s going on? What’s happening?
Hmm, more importantly—
“For now, I’ll temporarily name our team the 《Paladin’s Dust》, consisting of me, Pulmy-san, Orphelia-san, and Angelica.”
I could hear exclamations like “Wait!” and “So lame!” but I wouldn’t entertain any objections! I actually like teams. And while the name was decided on a whim, I thought it wasn’t half bad, right? What? Too self-deprecating? Well, that’s a bit late to worry about.
“First, Angelica and I will conduct a few experiments on the 《Liquid Dragon》 that will likely revive soon.”
I could tell the three of them were listening closely to my words.
“I know that monster to some extent. As you can see, the three-headed dragon— the 《Liquid Dragon》 can regenerate no matter how much you slice it. Not only that, but even if we attack with magic, it seems to have some resistance, so we can’t deal much damage.”
However, that didn’t guarantee it would be the same as in my dream.
“Now, let’s see if my knowledge holds true.”
I could manage a very short incantation. Standing before them, I began my chant.
“《Rain》.”
It was my signature light magic. I knew that just a little wouldn’t suffice for an experiment.
“So, brace yourselves.”
My light needles filled the sky, raining down continuously upon the 《Liquid Dragon》.
You may be wondering why Pulmy-san is safe. Allow me to explain a bit.
The “Never Bend” series is the story of Ichiro’s dream.
As a plot device, this work consistently presents the perspective of ◯◯◯ as the protagonist, while ◇◇◇ serves as a third-person viewpoint. However, the “Never Bend” series progresses from a third-person perspective, whereas it should have continued from ◇◇◇.
It might be confusing, but I appreciate your understanding.