Translator: “Hakou” Editor: “Weasalopes”
A city that exists between the kingdom and the empire. It is a city-state where many temples have been built, hence the name 『Holy City』.
It is always crowded with worshippers throughout the year, but it is even more crowded this time of year. This was because a certain event was being held at the temple of the god of business.
『Compete against each other with your trained body, polished skills, and courage in your chest』
A match between a man and a woman dedicated to God, it was no wonder that people were attracted to it.
It was now considered to be the top of the Grand Slam tournament and the most popular festival in the Holy City.
「It’s about time, huh」
「Even I who just watching is getting nervous」
The circular hall in the center of the temple. Six stages which were also circular were set up there.
Around one of the stages, the spectators were exchanging words, expressing their excitement. The reason was the players for the next game.
『The Queen who condemns sin and brings punishment』
She is the most popular girl in the tournament, despite the controversy that surrounds her play.
The second round of the tournament was just finished. Again, she won overwhelmingly, as she did in the first round.
Her opponent is a regular who has no one doubting his ability.
『The farmer of Gods who wields the Scythe of Death and reaps life.』
It was the Grim Reaper. He, too, instantly defeated his opponent in the second round.
The female player lost consciousness as she was being lifted into the air by his Death Scythe. The sight gave a shiver to those who saw it.
『We will now begin the third round. Kingdom Lady B!』
The priest who was present made an announcement with a microphone. Hearing this, a loud cheer erupted from the people in the surrounding area.
「Here she comes!」
A young woman with a slender body appeared from the side of the stage.
She was clad only in black leather over-the-knee boots and a crimson butterfly mask. You could say she was almost completely naked.
「It’s the Queen!」
In her right hand is a black leather bullwhip, bound in a loop.
Wrapped around her left thigh was a black leather holder. Inserted into the holder are two red and black candles.
PAN!
A leather-braided bullwhip is swung in the air to intimidate the audience. The tip of the whip goes beyond the speed of sound and makes a sharp cracking sound.
「Uhyaa!」
This was accompanied by a joyful squeal from the audience. Clapping with the whip was already a part of her entrance.
「Oooohhhh!」
The audience was once again in a state of high excitement.
The Plain Queen pulled the candle out of the holder on her thigh with her left hand. She spun it around and put it back in the holder.
There was no particular meaning to this. It was just a simple performance.
『Empire Man A!』
The next person to appear from the opposite side was a tall, hunchbacked man.
He was thin, but well-built, and his hunched back reminded someone who saw him of a cat.
His hollow cheeks, dark circles under his eyes, and dark eyes made him look sinister.
「As I thought, it’s amazing isn’t it, the Death Scythe」
A gentleman frowned and put his hand to his chin while letting out a groan.
「So that’s the Death Scythe, huh? That would be impossible for me」
The lady next to him held her mouth with her hands and glued her eyes to the ground.
As if trying to compete with the almost naked Plain Queen? The Grim Reaper also made his appearance without a bathrobe.
And he was fully prepared for battle. The tip of his scythe was pointing upward so high that it was piercing his midriff.
「The Grim Reaper is serious this time」
「A skinny girl like her… he’s going to destroy her」
She surely must’ve heard her, but the air of composure doesn’t disappear from the Plain Queen.
As long as she has her crimson butterfly mask on, she is not the usual Plain-chan, but a Plain Queen.
『Begin!』
The priest declared and the match finally began.
First, the Plain Queen flashes her whip in the air, sending a shockwave through the air. She looks at the Grim Reaper, but he doesn’t seem to be afraid of her.
He is standing with his arms crossed with a relaxed expression on his face. He looks at her as if saying, “Come and get me”.
「Acting strong now, huh? Just you wait, I’ll make you cry!」
The Plain Queen swings her arms wide in a side swing.
The tip of the whip, which strikes alternately from both sides, hits his shoulder, side, and thighs fiercely. However, Grim Reaper’s expression doesn’t change one bit.
Seeing this, the Queen in the butterfly mask licks her lips.
「Excellent… If you don’t have at least that much spirit, I won’t be able to enjoy this myself」
As soon as she finished speaking, the Plain Queen drew a number eight horizontally in front of her.
The tip of the whip from the beautiful form goes around the front, side, and back of the Grim Reaper like a living creature.
Even so, the Grim Reaper still keeps his arms crossed. He just lets a thin smile appear on his face.
「Don’t underestimate me! You sleep-deprived, hunchbacked bastard!」
It must have hit a nerve with her. The storm of pain hit him even faster and harder.
Seeing this sight in front of their eyes, a cry of admiration leaked out from the spectators.
「As expected of the Grim Reaper… It’s not working at all」
At the young man’s muttering, the old man next to him nodded with an expression as if he already predicted this.
「Just as I thought. A toy whip like that wouldn’t do」
The Plain Queen tightened her arms and continued to swing compactly. Cold sweat was beginning to spill out from behind her butterfly mask.
(It’s a lie, right? How can he still endure this!?)
Fear welled up in her as she felt as if she were dealing with a statue made of bronze.
(But, this is all I have)
Compared to the other contestants, her defense was significantly lower. If she get caught, it will be the end for her.
That’s why she had to avoid close combat and keep attacking from afar.
「What an eyesore, that Death Scythe!」
A vicious blade, capable of cutting off one’s consciousness with a single swing. The Plain Queen sends her whip towards it.
「The Queen took a step forward!」
A voice rises from the audience.
The Plain Queen, who had never taken a single step until now. She finally took a big step forward.
The whip extended from her outstretched right hand.
The body of the whip swung down from above, hitting the base of the Death Scythe. The body of the whip struck the base of the scythe, and the blade rolled up and around it.
(This is!?)
At this point, even the Grim Reaper’s expression changed.
Even though the tightness of a single wrap was weak, the force accumulated as the number of wraps increased. By the time the wrapping had reached the bottom of the loop, the pressure was too much for the human body to handle.
「Uohh!」
And finally, a voice leaked out of him.
The tip of the whip, coiled up to the end, struck the tip of the Death Scythe.
(What an accurate control!)
The whip is uncoiled and pulled back to his opponent’s hand. He just watched in amazement.
A technique that requires high precision. She had unhesitatingly unleashed it in a match, and had succeeded.
(Is it her competitive spirit? No, not just that. This is something she honed in real combat)
Mere repetition will not be enough to master it.
Because she would receive a fatal counterattack if she missed. She must have built up her experience under such circumstances that do not allow for leniency.
(How many defeats have she suffered to reach this point?)
The image where the Plain Queen is pushed down by a man who jumps into her bosom is vivid. The man takes up the whip and begins to wield it violently.
(There will be no mercy in that)
The pain from the whip must have made him extremely aggressive. Even if she ask for forgiveness during the process, he will never stop.
And an amateur whip is no different from violence. The pain without a trace of gentleness must have been extraordinary.
(But she didn’t give up, and continued to stand up as Queen)
The result of that is where they are right now. He even thinks that her indomitable spirit is admirable.
(Now then, what should I do about this?)
You can’t hold back a reaper with a whip wielded by a mere mortal. With a single step, he could easily bring her into melee range.
If he did, she would not be able to use the whip, and his Death Scythe would cut off her consciousness.
(…But that would be a shame)
A certain victory. Although it was there within his grasp, he didn’t want to get it.
『I want to enjoy this moment, even if that meant I have to lose』
Such a feeling was growing in his heart.
(…It seems I’ve changed, huh)
He sighs heavily, disgusted with himself in his mind.
He has lived his entire life hoping only to defeat his opponent. Just a few months ago, this kind of feeling would have never occurred to him.
But it is different now. He has found something in his life that is more valuable than victory.
(Did I grow weak? …Maybe I am)
With a self-mocking smile, he looked at his opponent in front of him.
(Hm?)
Translator: “Hakou” Editor: “Weasalopes”
A city that exists between the kingdom and the empire. It is a city-state where many temples have been built, hence the name 『Holy City』.
It is always crowded with worshippers throughout the year, but it is even more crowded this time of year. This was because a certain event was being held at the temple of the god of business.
『Compete against each other with your trained body, polished skills, and courage in your chest』
A match between a man and a woman dedicated to God, it was no wonder that people were attracted to it.
It was now considered to be the top of the Grand Slam tournament and the most popular festival in the Holy City.
「It’s about time, huh」
「Even I who just watching is getting nervous」
The circular hall in the center of the temple. Six stages which were also circular were set up there.
Around one of the stages, the spectators were exchanging words, expressing their excitement. The reason was the players for the next game.
『The Queen who condemns sin and brings punishment』
She is the most popular girl in the tournament, despite the controversy that surrounds her play.
The second round of the tournament was just finished. Again, she won overwhelmingly, as she did in the first round.
Her opponent is a regular who has no one doubting his ability.
『The farmer of Gods who wields the Scythe of Death and reaps life.』
It was the Grim Reaper. He, too, instantly defeated his opponent in the second round.
The female player lost consciousness as she was being lifted into the air by his Death Scythe. The sight gave a shiver to those who saw it.
『We will now begin the third round. Kingdom Lady B!』
The priest who was present made an announcement with a microphone. Hearing this, a loud cheer erupted from the people in the surrounding area.
「Here she comes!」
A young woman with a slender body appeared from the side of the stage.
She was clad only in black leather over-the-knee boots and a crimson butterfly mask. You could say she was almost completely naked.
「It’s the Queen!」
In her right hand is a black leather bullwhip, bound in a loop.
Wrapped around her left thigh was a black leather holder. Inserted into the holder are two red and black candles.
PAN!
A leather-braided bullwhip is swung in the air to intimidate the audience. The tip of the whip goes beyond the speed of sound and makes a sharp cracking sound.
「Uhyaa!」
This was accompanied by a joyful squeal from the audience. Clapping with the whip was already a part of her entrance.
「Oooohhhh!」
The audience was once again in a state of high excitement.
The Plain Queen pulled the candle out of the holder on her thigh with her left hand. She spun it around and put it back in the holder.
There was no particular meaning to this. It was just a simple performance.
『Empire Man A!』
The next person to appear from the opposite side was a tall, hunchbacked man.
He was thin, but well-built, and his hunched back reminded someone who saw him of a cat.
His hollow cheeks, dark circles under his eyes, and dark eyes made him look sinister.
「As I thought, it’s amazing isn’t it, the Death Scythe」
A gentleman frowned and put his hand to his chin while letting out a groan.
「So that’s the Death Scythe, huh? That would be impossible for me」
The lady next to him held her mouth with her hands and glued her eyes to the ground.
As if trying to compete with the almost naked Plain Queen? The Grim Reaper also made his appearance without a bathrobe.
And he was fully prepared for battle. The tip of his scythe was pointing upward so high that it was piercing his midriff.
「The Grim Reaper is serious this time」
「A skinny girl like her… he’s going to destroy her」
She surely must’ve heard her, but the air of composure doesn’t disappear from the Plain Queen.
As long as she has her crimson butterfly mask on, she is not the usual Plain-chan, but a Plain Queen.
『Begin!』
The priest declared and the match finally began.
First, the Plain Queen flashes her whip in the air, sending a shockwave through the air. She looks at the Grim Reaper, but he doesn’t seem to be afraid of her.
He is standing with his arms crossed with a relaxed expression on his face. He looks at her as if saying, “Come and get me”.
「Acting strong now, huh? Just you wait, I’ll make you cry!」
The Plain Queen swings her arms wide in a side swing.
The tip of the whip, which strikes alternately from both sides, hits his shoulder, side, and thighs fiercely. However, Grim Reaper’s expression doesn’t change one bit.
Seeing this, the Queen in the butterfly mask licks her lips.
「Excellent… If you don’t have at least that much spirit, I won’t be able to enjoy this myself」
As soon as she finished speaking, the Plain Queen drew a number eight horizontally in front of her.
The tip of the whip from the beautiful form goes around the front, side, and back of the Grim Reaper like a living creature.
Even so, the Grim Reaper still keeps his arms crossed. He just lets a thin smile appear on his face.
「Don’t underestimate me! You sleep-deprived, hunchbacked bastard!」
It must have hit a nerve with her. The storm of pain hit him even faster and harder.
Seeing this sight in front of their eyes, a cry of admiration leaked out from the spectators.
「As expected of the Grim Reaper… It’s not working at all」
At the young man’s muttering, the old man next to him nodded with an expression as if he already predicted this.
「Just as I thought. A toy whip like that wouldn’t do」
The Plain Queen tightened her arms and continued to swing compactly. Cold sweat was beginning to spill out from behind her butterfly mask.
(It’s a lie, right? How can he still endure this!?)
Fear welled up in her as she felt as if she were dealing with a statue made of bronze.
(But, this is all I have)
Compared to the other contestants, her defense was significantly lower. If she get caught, it will be the end for her.
That’s why she had to avoid close combat and keep attacking from afar.
「What an eyesore, that Death Scythe!」
A vicious blade, capable of cutting off one’s consciousness with a single swing. The Plain Queen sends her whip towards it.
「The Queen took a step forward!」
A voice rises from the audience.
The Plain Queen, who had never taken a single step until now. She finally took a big step forward.
The whip extended from her outstretched right hand.
The body of the whip swung down from above, hitting the base of the Death Scythe. The body of the whip struck the base of the scythe, and the blade rolled up and around it.
(This is!?)
At this point, even the Grim Reaper’s expression changed.
Even though the tightness of a single wrap was weak, the force accumulated as the number of wraps increased. By the time the wrapping had reached the bottom of the loop, the pressure was too much for the human body to handle.
「Uohh!」
And finally, a voice leaked out of him.
The tip of the whip, coiled up to the end, struck the tip of the Death Scythe.
(What an accurate control!)
The whip is uncoiled and pulled back to his opponent’s hand. He just watched in amazement.
A technique that requires high precision. She had unhesitatingly unleashed it in a match, and had succeeded.
(Is it her competitive spirit? No, not just that. This is something she honed in real combat)
Mere repetition will not be enough to master it.
Because she would receive a fatal counterattack if she missed. She must have built up her experience under such circumstances that do not allow for leniency.
(How many defeats have she suffered to reach this point?)
The image where the Plain Queen is pushed down by a man who jumps into her bosom is vivid. The man takes up the whip and begins to wield it violently.
(There will be no mercy in that)
The pain from the whip must have made him extremely aggressive. Even if she ask for forgiveness during the process, he will never stop.
And an amateur whip is no different from violence. The pain without a trace of gentleness must have been extraordinary.
(But she didn’t give up, and continued to stand up as Queen)
The result of that is where they are right now. He even thinks that her indomitable spirit is admirable.
(Now then, what should I do about this?)
You can’t hold back a reaper with a whip wielded by a mere mortal. With a single step, he could easily bring her into melee range.
If he did, she would not be able to use the whip, and his Death Scythe would cut off her consciousness.
(…But that would be a shame)
A certain victory. Although it was there within his grasp, he didn’t want to get it.
『I want to enjoy this moment, even if that meant I have to lose』
Such a feeling was growing in his heart.
(…It seems I’ve changed, huh)
He sighs heavily, disgusted with himself in his mind.
He has lived his entire life hoping only to defeat his opponent. Just a few months ago, this kind of feeling would have never occurred to him.
But it is different now. He has found something in his life that is more valuable than victory.
(Did I grow weak? …Maybe I am)
With a self-mocking smile, he looked at his opponent in front of him.
(Hm?)
Translator: “Hakou” Editor: “Weasalopes”
Inside her eyes behind the butterfly mask, was the fire of rage. She must have taken the Grim Reaper’s smile as a mockery.
She took another step, farther and deeper. Then, in a low stance, she swung a flash of horizontal whip that seemed as if it was crawling on the ground.
The whip struck the floor like a snake.
(What is this technique? This is the first time I’ve seen this)
He doesn’t want to avoid it in the first place. So he just stared at it with his arms crossed.
The whip is quite close to his body and comes in contact with Grim Reaper’s ankle. The tip of the whip begins to move in a circular motion around the Grim Reaper.
(Hou… Interesting)
This is a full-body version of the technique that attacked his Death Scythe earlier. The whip coils up Grim Reaper from the feet up.
A few seconds later, the figure of the Grim Reaper appeared, bound from ankle to shoulder by the whip, except for his Death Scythe.
He looked like a mummy found in a ruin.
「Don’t just stand there!」
Letting go of the whip, the Plain Queen kicked the mummy in the leg and rolled it to the floor.
Then she glared hatefully at the Death Scythe, which was bending upward from between the whip coiled around his body.
「Isn’t it dangerous with it all exposed? You should at least have a sheath!」
She pulled out the candle out of the holder on her thigh with her left hand. She then snaps her fingers with her right hand, and the wick burns up at once, as if it was magic.
Seeing this, the crowd also fired up.
「What is she trying to do, that woman?」
Those who had no knowledge about it muttered between themselves. In the midst of all this, the Santa Claus-like vice guild master swallowed his breath.
(The black candle!)
The two candles she had prepared. The red one was low temperature for ordinary people, and the black one she just picked up was room temperature hot.
If he received those candles, he would not be able to avoid getting a burn. It was an act of injury that could even result in disqualification if the opponent requested it.
(Does it mean that the Grim Reaper has already reached that territory?)
It could only be used against skilled opponents who would feel pleasure instead after being inflicted with it.
That’s what Plain Queen’s eyes saw in the Grim Reaper. Unsatisfied with a low temperature candle, he didn’t mind a room temperature candle used on him, rather he was pleased with it.
(I had heard rumors that he had opened the 『Sin and Punishment』 store himself. But I never imagined that he would be able to train himself to this level by himself)
In the red-light district of the royal capital, many stores have adopted this play and can compete with each other in friendly competition. However, in Landbarn, there is only one 『Sin and Punishment』 store, and it’s a store he owns.
Even in such a disadvantaged environment, the Grim Reaper was able to shine.
(Should I say as expected of him, I can’t lose to him)
Even in the kingdom’s red-light district, he was a top-ranking member of the Sin and Punishment category. The shock the vice guild master received was great as he was aware of this.
He promised himself that he would train harder when he returned.
「Uwaaaa!」
「Stop this immediately!」
In the audience seats, there was a continuous stream of protests and screams from both men and women.
Droplets of wax fall onto the tip of the Death Scythe. Each time, the Grim Reaper screams in pain and bounces his body up and down like a shrimp.
They couldn’t stand the sight of it.
「Kyahahahahaha!」
The Plain Queen’s laughter echoed. She was greatly relieved that she was able to bring out this kind of reaction different from the whip.
「Stop moving! I can’t apply a good coating if you keep moving like that!」
She stomps her foot on his belly and holds his bouncing body down with her weight.
And gradually, a long chocolate banana is formed.
(This must feel good for you, right~?)
How many times have the tables turned on me? I can’t even begin to count the number of times I’ve had my candle taken away and dripped on me.
Recalling the days when she had the one who screamed, the Plain Queen bit her lip.
(I can hear it, the hint of sweetness in your scream)
The Plain Queen places a shortened candle on the tip of the banana.
It’s an uneven place. However, thanks to the wax that has not yet hardened, it becomes one with the banana.
「Alright~ Candle service complete」
She waited until it was just about to burn out, and then blew it out in one go like candles on a birthday cake.
The Grim Reaper, who had been staring at the candle, let out a breath of relief and satisfaction and released the tension in his body.
(You’re really advanced beyond help, huh)
The base of the coated banana. From there, the mark of defeat overflows in large quantities.
Seeing this, the Plain Queen exhaled. Then she looked at the priest who was present.
He must have noticed. The priest nodded and took a deep breath.
『Winner, Kingdom Woman B!』
The declaration was made.
But there was no cheer in the air. There was only a disgruntled murmur.
「Isn’t he just standing still?」
「A match? An Offering? What the hell is this?」
It was only natural that such a comment would be uttered.
The Grim Reaper has a single-digit ranking skill-wise. And yet, he was defeated without making any move at all.
「Don’t joke with me! This is bullshit!」
Grim Reaper who gets abused over time.
The same tournament where he lost to Explosive onee-san last year. Even though the result was the same, that match was a very exciting match.
This year, however, he was just beaten one-sidedly.
「This is the end of Grim Reaper」
「Well, that’s for sure, with how he fought just now」
Grim Reaper was still lying on the stage. Some of the words that were spat out loudly must have reached his ears.
However, they never reached his heart. Although his expression did not change, he was still dreamily enjoying the aftermath.
***
Meanwhile, Andale who runs an apothecary store in the royal capital. He was enjoying watching the game on a different stage of the same hall.
「Gooo Lightning! Use Lightning Sword!!」
He fanned the cold ale with his left hand and swung his right fist around.
The naked, young man with short mustache receiving the cheers had his hands clasped behind his head and was timing back and forth on his mid-waist.
「Uooohhhh! Go Lightning!」
A shout rose as he dove. Lightning thrusts into the woman from out of her range and retreats without allowing her to counterattack.
Again, he begins to swing his hips back and forth in mid-air.
「It’s working, it’s working!」
The crowd erupted in cheers and shouts.
It must have been repeated so many times that the opponent could barely stand.
Suddenly, Lightning’s figure disappears. At the same time, a burst of energy ripped through the air.
「Here it is! It’s the Lightning sword!」
Andale and the rest of the audience cheered loudly. The crowd was very excited at the appearance of this long-awaited special move.
Lightning stepped in so fast that he seemed to disappear. And now he had already caught the woman and was thrusting diagonally downward.
『Match over! Winner, Black Locust country!』
The young beauty collapses and falls on her back with her legs spread wide.
Even though he let go of her body, she still could not stop. From the center of her body, like a whale, she kept fuming over and over again.
The audience stood up and shouted at the sight.
「Lightning! Lightning!」
He turns his waist and takes a swing with his piercing sword. A young man with a mustache cutting off a drop.
When the priest raises his one arm, he answers the call with a smile he’s not used to.
「Wow, it was great. I always wanted to see it, that high speed thrust」
After the match was over, Andale left his seat in a great mood.
This bald-headed old man had been curious about it since he first saw it in a magazine.
「Lightninggg Swoorrdd!」
He puts his hands on the back of his head and shakes his hips. He wasn’t the only one imitating Lightning, he could see others doing the same here and there.
They are probably still in a state of excitement, a common sight after a sports match.
「All that’s left is tomorrow’s match. Now we’ll eat, take a bath, and then go to the stall」
Uhihihi, he smiled happily.
As a store owner in the shopping district, he is also an E rank merchant. As such, he can watch the tournament and enter the stalls in the inner sanctum of the temple.
(Ah… I’ll also have to think of some souvenirs for everyone)
Because he is the representative of the royal capital’s shopping district, he was able to get tickets to watch the tournament. He also received donations from everyone, so spending some money for souvenirs would hardly hurt his own pocket.
Even so, he thinks that he has to be smart and careful about what to buy.
(Oh well, let’s figure it out after the final tomorrow)
Andale quickened his pace, thinking that he might be able to meet the idol group.
He didn’t know yet that the best goods would be sold out on the last day.
Translator: “Hakou” Editor: “Weasalopes”
A city that exists between the kingdom and the empire. It is a city-state where many temples have been built, hence the name 『Holy City』.
It is always crowded with worshippers throughout the year, but it is even more crowded this time of year. This was because a certain event was being held at the temple of the god of business.
『Compete against each other with your trained body, polished skills, and courage in your chest』
A match between a man and a woman dedicated to God, it was no wonder that people were attracted to it.
It was now considered to be the top of the Grand Slam tournament and the most popular festival in the Holy City.
「It’s about time, huh」
「Even I who just watching is getting nervous」
The circular hall in the center of the temple. Six stages which were also circular were set up there.
Around one of the stages, the spectators were exchanging words, expressing their excitement. The reason was the players for the next game.
『The Queen who condemns sin and brings punishment』
She is the most popular girl in the tournament, despite the controversy that surrounds her play.
The second round of the tournament was just finished. Again, she won overwhelmingly, as she did in the first round.
Her opponent is a regular who has no one doubting his ability.
『The farmer of Gods who wields the Scythe of Death and reaps life.』
It was the Grim Reaper. He, too, instantly defeated his opponent in the second round.
The female player lost consciousness as she was being lifted into the air by his Death Scythe. The sight gave a shiver to those who saw it.
『We will now begin the third round. Kingdom Lady B!』
The priest who was present made an announcement with a microphone. Hearing this, a loud cheer erupted from the people in the surrounding area.
「Here she comes!」
A young woman with a slender body appeared from the side of the stage.
She was clad only in black leather over-the-knee boots and a crimson butterfly mask. You could say she was almost completely naked.
「It’s the Queen!」
In her right hand is a black leather bullwhip, bound in a loop.
Wrapped around her left thigh was a black leather holder. Inserted into the holder are two red and black candles.
PAN!
A leather-braided bullwhip is swung in the air to intimidate the audience. The tip of the whip goes beyond the speed of sound and makes a sharp cracking sound.
「Uhyaa!」
This was accompanied by a joyful squeal from the audience. Clapping with the whip was already a part of her entrance.
「Oooohhhh!」
The audience was once again in a state of high excitement.
The Plain Queen pulled the candle out of the holder on her thigh with her left hand. She spun it around and put it back in the holder.
There was no particular meaning to this. It was just a simple performance.
『Empire Man A!』
The next person to appear from the opposite side was a tall, hunchbacked man.
He was thin, but well-built, and his hunched back reminded someone who saw him of a cat.
His hollow cheeks, dark circles under his eyes, and dark eyes made him look sinister.
「As I thought, it’s amazing isn’t it, the Death Scythe」
A gentleman frowned and put his hand to his chin while letting out a groan.
「So that’s the Death Scythe, huh? That would be impossible for me」
The lady next to him held her mouth with her hands and glued her eyes to the ground.
As if trying to compete with the almost naked Plain Queen? The Grim Reaper also made his appearance without a bathrobe.
And he was fully prepared for battle. The tip of his scythe was pointing upward so high that it was piercing his midriff.
「The Grim Reaper is serious this time」
「A skinny girl like her… he’s going to destroy her」
She surely must’ve heard her, but the air of composure doesn’t disappear from the Plain Queen.
As long as she has her crimson butterfly mask on, she is not the usual Plain-chan, but a Plain Queen.
『Begin!』
The priest declared and the match finally began.
First, the Plain Queen flashes her whip in the air, sending a shockwave through the air. She looks at the Grim Reaper, but he doesn’t seem to be afraid of her.
He is standing with his arms crossed with a relaxed expression on his face. He looks at her as if saying, “Come and get me”.
「Acting strong now, huh? Just you wait, I’ll make you cry!」
The Plain Queen swings her arms wide in a side swing.
The tip of the whip, which strikes alternately from both sides, hits his shoulder, side, and thighs fiercely. However, Grim Reaper’s expression doesn’t change one bit.
Seeing this, the Queen in the butterfly mask licks her lips.
「Excellent… If you don’t have at least that much spirit, I won’t be able to enjoy this myself」
As soon as she finished speaking, the Plain Queen drew a number eight horizontally in front of her.
The tip of the whip from the beautiful form goes around the front, side, and back of the Grim Reaper like a living creature.
Even so, the Grim Reaper still keeps his arms crossed. He just lets a thin smile appear on his face.
「Don’t underestimate me! You sleep-deprived, hunchbacked bastard!」
It must have hit a nerve with her. The storm of pain hit him even faster and harder.
Seeing this sight in front of their eyes, a cry of admiration leaked out from the spectators.
「As expected of the Grim Reaper… It’s not working at all」
At the young man’s muttering, the old man next to him nodded with an expression as if he already predicted this.
「Just as I thought. A toy whip like that wouldn’t do」
The Plain Queen tightened her arms and continued to swing compactly. Cold sweat was beginning to spill out from behind her butterfly mask.
(It’s a lie, right? How can he still endure this!?)
Fear welled up in her as she felt as if she were dealing with a statue made of bronze.
(But, this is all I have)
Compared to the other contestants, her defense was significantly lower. If she get caught, it will be the end for her.
That’s why she had to avoid close combat and keep attacking from afar.
「What an eyesore, that Death Scythe!」
A vicious blade, capable of cutting off one’s consciousness with a single swing. The Plain Queen sends her whip towards it.
「The Queen took a step forward!」
A voice rises from the audience.
The Plain Queen, who had never taken a single step until now. She finally took a big step forward.
The whip extended from her outstretched right hand.
The body of the whip swung down from above, hitting the base of the Death Scythe. The body of the whip struck the base of the scythe, and the blade rolled up and around it.
(This is!?)
At this point, even the Grim Reaper’s expression changed.
Even though the tightness of a single wrap was weak, the force accumulated as the number of wraps increased. By the time the wrapping had reached the bottom of the loop, the pressure was too much for the human body to handle.
「Uohh!」
And finally, a voice leaked out of him.
The tip of the whip, coiled up to the end, struck the tip of the Death Scythe.
(What an accurate control!)
The whip is uncoiled and pulled back to his opponent’s hand. He just watched in amazement.
A technique that requires high precision. She had unhesitatingly unleashed it in a match, and had succeeded.
(Is it her competitive spirit? No, not just that. This is something she honed in real combat)
Mere repetition will not be enough to master it.
Because she would receive a fatal counterattack if she missed. She must have built up her experience under such circumstances that do not allow for leniency.
(How many defeats have she suffered to reach this point?)
The image where the Plain Queen is pushed down by a man who jumps into her bosom is vivid. The man takes up the whip and begins to wield it violently.
(There will be no mercy in that)
The pain from the whip must have made him extremely aggressive. Even if she ask for forgiveness during the process, he will never stop.
And an amateur whip is no different from violence. The pain without a trace of gentleness must have been extraordinary.
(But she didn’t give up, and continued to stand up as Queen)
The result of that is where they are right now. He even thinks that her indomitable spirit is admirable.
(Now then, what should I do about this?)
You can’t hold back a reaper with a whip wielded by a mere mortal. With a single step, he could easily bring her into melee range.
If he did, she would not be able to use the whip, and his Death Scythe would cut off her consciousness.
(…But that would be a shame)
A certain victory. Although it was there within his grasp, he didn’t want to get it.
『I want to enjoy this moment, even if that meant I have to lose』
Such a feeling was growing in his heart.
(…It seems I’ve changed, huh)
He sighs heavily, disgusted with himself in his mind.
He has lived his entire life hoping only to defeat his opponent. Just a few months ago, this kind of feeling would have never occurred to him.
But it is different now. He has found something in his life that is more valuable than victory.
(Did I grow weak? …Maybe I am)
With a self-mocking smile, he looked at his opponent in front of him.
(Hm?)
Translator: “Hakou” Editor: “Weasalopes”
A city that exists between the kingdom and the empire. It is a city-state where many temples have been built, hence the name 『Holy City』.
It is always crowded with worshippers throughout the year, but it is even more crowded this time of year. This was because a certain event was being held at the temple of the god of business.
『Compete against each other with your trained body, polished skills, and courage in your chest』
A match between a man and a woman dedicated to God, it was no wonder that people were attracted to it.
It was now considered to be the top of the Grand Slam tournament and the most popular festival in the Holy City.
「It’s about time, huh」
「Even I who just watching is getting nervous」
The circular hall in the center of the temple. Six stages which were also circular were set up there.
Around one of the stages, the spectators were exchanging words, expressing their excitement. The reason was the players for the next game.
『The Queen who condemns sin and brings punishment』
She is the most popular girl in the tournament, despite the controversy that surrounds her play.
The second round of the tournament was just finished. Again, she won overwhelmingly, as she did in the first round.
Her opponent is a regular who has no one doubting his ability.
『The farmer of Gods who wields the Scythe of Death and reaps life.』
It was the Grim Reaper. He, too, instantly defeated his opponent in the second round.
The female player lost consciousness as she was being lifted into the air by his Death Scythe. The sight gave a shiver to those who saw it.
『We will now begin the third round. Kingdom Lady B!』
The priest who was present made an announcement with a microphone. Hearing this, a loud cheer erupted from the people in the surrounding area.
「Here she comes!」
A young woman with a slender body appeared from the side of the stage.
She was clad only in black leather over-the-knee boots and a crimson butterfly mask. You could say she was almost completely naked.
「It’s the Queen!」
In her right hand is a black leather bullwhip, bound in a loop.
Wrapped around her left thigh was a black leather holder. Inserted into the holder are two red and black candles.
PAN!
A leather-braided bullwhip is swung in the air to intimidate the audience. The tip of the whip goes beyond the speed of sound and makes a sharp cracking sound.
「Uhyaa!」
This was accompanied by a joyful squeal from the audience. Clapping with the whip was already a part of her entrance.
「Oooohhhh!」
The audience was once again in a state of high excitement.
The Plain Queen pulled the candle out of the holder on her thigh with her left hand. She spun it around and put it back in the holder.
There was no particular meaning to this. It was just a simple performance.
『Empire Man A!』
The next person to appear from the opposite side was a tall, hunchbacked man.
He was thin, but well-built, and his hunched back reminded someone who saw him of a cat.
His hollow cheeks, dark circles under his eyes, and dark eyes made him look sinister.
「As I thought, it’s amazing isn’t it, the Death Scythe」
A gentleman frowned and put his hand to his chin while letting out a groan.
「So that’s the Death Scythe, huh? That would be impossible for me」
The lady next to him held her mouth with her hands and glued her eyes to the ground.
As if trying to compete with the almost naked Plain Queen? The Grim Reaper also made his appearance without a bathrobe.
And he was fully prepared for battle. The tip of his scythe was pointing upward so high that it was piercing his midriff.
「The Grim Reaper is serious this time」
「A skinny girl like her… he’s going to destroy her」
She surely must’ve heard her, but the air of composure doesn’t disappear from the Plain Queen.
As long as she has her crimson butterfly mask on, she is not the usual Plain-chan, but a Plain Queen.
『Begin!』
The priest declared and the match finally began.
First, the Plain Queen flashes her whip in the air, sending a shockwave through the air. She looks at the Grim Reaper, but he doesn’t seem to be afraid of her.
He is standing with his arms crossed with a relaxed expression on his face. He looks at her as if saying, “Come and get me”.
「Acting strong now, huh? Just you wait, I’ll make you cry!」
The Plain Queen swings her arms wide in a side swing.
The tip of the whip, which strikes alternately from both sides, hits his shoulder, side, and thighs fiercely. However, Grim Reaper’s expression doesn’t change one bit.
Seeing this, the Queen in the butterfly mask licks her lips.
「Excellent… If you don’t have at least that much spirit, I won’t be able to enjoy this myself」
As soon as she finished speaking, the Plain Queen drew a number eight horizontally in front of her.
The tip of the whip from the beautiful form goes around the front, side, and back of the Grim Reaper like a living creature.
Even so, the Grim Reaper still keeps his arms crossed. He just lets a thin smile appear on his face.
「Don’t underestimate me! You sleep-deprived, hunchbacked bastard!」
It must have hit a nerve with her. The storm of pain hit him even faster and harder.
Seeing this sight in front of their eyes, a cry of admiration leaked out from the spectators.
「As expected of the Grim Reaper… It’s not working at all」
At the young man’s muttering, the old man next to him nodded with an expression as if he already predicted this.
「Just as I thought. A toy whip like that wouldn’t do」
The Plain Queen tightened her arms and continued to swing compactly. Cold sweat was beginning to spill out from behind her butterfly mask.
(It’s a lie, right? How can he still endure this!?)
Fear welled up in her as she felt as if she were dealing with a statue made of bronze.
(But, this is all I have)
Compared to the other contestants, her defense was significantly lower. If she get caught, it will be the end for her.
That’s why she had to avoid close combat and keep attacking from afar.
「What an eyesore, that Death Scythe!」
A vicious blade, capable of cutting off one’s consciousness with a single swing. The Plain Queen sends her whip towards it.
「The Queen took a step forward!」
A voice rises from the audience.
The Plain Queen, who had never taken a single step until now. She finally took a big step forward.
The whip extended from her outstretched right hand.
The body of the whip swung down from above, hitting the base of the Death Scythe. The body of the whip struck the base of the scythe, and the blade rolled up and around it.
(This is!?)
At this point, even the Grim Reaper’s expression changed.
Even though the tightness of a single wrap was weak, the force accumulated as the number of wraps increased. By the time the wrapping had reached the bottom of the loop, the pressure was too much for the human body to handle.
「Uohh!」
And finally, a voice leaked out of him.
The tip of the whip, coiled up to the end, struck the tip of the Death Scythe.
(What an accurate control!)
The whip is uncoiled and pulled back to his opponent’s hand. He just watched in amazement.
A technique that requires high precision. She had unhesitatingly unleashed it in a match, and had succeeded.
(Is it her competitive spirit? No, not just that. This is something she honed in real combat)
Mere repetition will not be enough to master it.
Because she would receive a fatal counterattack if she missed. She must have built up her experience under such circumstances that do not allow for leniency.
(How many defeats have she suffered to reach this point?)
The image where the Plain Queen is pushed down by a man who jumps into her bosom is vivid. The man takes up the whip and begins to wield it violently.
(There will be no mercy in that)
The pain from the whip must have made him extremely aggressive. Even if she ask for forgiveness during the process, he will never stop.
And an amateur whip is no different from violence. The pain without a trace of gentleness must have been extraordinary.
(But she didn’t give up, and continued to stand up as Queen)
The result of that is where they are right now. He even thinks that her indomitable spirit is admirable.
(Now then, what should I do about this?)
You can’t hold back a reaper with a whip wielded by a mere mortal. With a single step, he could easily bring her into melee range.
If he did, she would not be able to use the whip, and his Death Scythe would cut off her consciousness.
(…But that would be a shame)
A certain victory. Although it was there within his grasp, he didn’t want to get it.
『I want to enjoy this moment, even if that meant I have to lose』
Such a feeling was growing in his heart.
(…It seems I’ve changed, huh)
He sighs heavily, disgusted with himself in his mind.
He has lived his entire life hoping only to defeat his opponent. Just a few months ago, this kind of feeling would have never occurred to him.
But it is different now. He has found something in his life that is more valuable than victory.
(Did I grow weak? …Maybe I am)
With a self-mocking smile, he looked at his opponent in front of him.
(Hm?)
Translator: “Hakou” Editor: “Weasalopes”
Inside her eyes behind the butterfly mask, was the fire of rage. She must have taken the Grim Reaper’s smile as a mockery.
She took another step, farther and deeper. Then, in a low stance, she swung a flash of horizontal whip that seemed as if it was crawling on the ground.
The whip struck the floor like a snake.
(What is this technique? This is the first time I’ve seen this)
He doesn’t want to avoid it in the first place. So he just stared at it with his arms crossed.
The whip is quite close to his body and comes in contact with Grim Reaper’s ankle. The tip of the whip begins to move in a circular motion around the Grim Reaper.
(Hou… Interesting)
This is a full-body version of the technique that attacked his Death Scythe earlier. The whip coils up Grim Reaper from the feet up.
A few seconds later, the figure of the Grim Reaper appeared, bound from ankle to shoulder by the whip, except for his Death Scythe.
He looked like a mummy found in a ruin.
「Don’t just stand there!」
Letting go of the whip, the Plain Queen kicked the mummy in the leg and rolled it to the floor.
Then she glared hatefully at the Death Scythe, which was bending upward from between the whip coiled around his body.
「Isn’t it dangerous with it all exposed? You should at least have a sheath!」
She pulled out the candle out of the holder on her thigh with her left hand. She then snaps her fingers with her right hand, and the wick burns up at once, as if it was magic.
Seeing this, the crowd also fired up.
「What is she trying to do, that woman?」
Those who had no knowledge about it muttered between themselves. In the midst of all this, the Santa Claus-like vice guild master swallowed his breath.
(The black candle!)
The two candles she had prepared. The red one was low temperature for ordinary people, and the black one she just picked up was room temperature hot.
If he received those candles, he would not be able to avoid getting a burn. It was an act of injury that could even result in disqualification if the opponent requested it.
(Does it mean that the Grim Reaper has already reached that territory?)
It could only be used against skilled opponents who would feel pleasure instead after being inflicted with it.
That’s what Plain Queen’s eyes saw in the Grim Reaper. Unsatisfied with a low temperature candle, he didn’t mind a room temperature candle used on him, rather he was pleased with it.
(I had heard rumors that he had opened the 『Sin and Punishment』 store himself. But I never imagined that he would be able to train himself to this level by himself)
In the red-light district of the royal capital, many stores have adopted this play and can compete with each other in friendly competition. However, in Landbarn, there is only one 『Sin and Punishment』 store, and it’s a store he owns.
Even in such a disadvantaged environment, the Grim Reaper was able to shine.
(Should I say as expected of him, I can’t lose to him)
Even in the kingdom’s red-light district, he was a top-ranking member of the Sin and Punishment category. The shock the vice guild master received was great as he was aware of this.
He promised himself that he would train harder when he returned.
「Uwaaaa!」
「Stop this immediately!」
In the audience seats, there was a continuous stream of protests and screams from both men and women.
Droplets of wax fall onto the tip of the Death Scythe. Each time, the Grim Reaper screams in pain and bounces his body up and down like a shrimp.
They couldn’t stand the sight of it.
「Kyahahahahaha!」
The Plain Queen’s laughter echoed. She was greatly relieved that she was able to bring out this kind of reaction different from the whip.
「Stop moving! I can’t apply a good coating if you keep moving like that!」
She stomps her foot on his belly and holds his bouncing body down with her weight.
And gradually, a long chocolate banana is formed.
(This must feel good for you, right~?)
How many times have the tables turned on me? I can’t even begin to count the number of times I’ve had my candle taken away and dripped on me.
Recalling the days when she had the one who screamed, the Plain Queen bit her lip.
(I can hear it, the hint of sweetness in your scream)
The Plain Queen places a shortened candle on the tip of the banana.
It’s an uneven place. However, thanks to the wax that has not yet hardened, it becomes one with the banana.
「Alright~ Candle service complete」
She waited until it was just about to burn out, and then blew it out in one go like candles on a birthday cake.
The Grim Reaper, who had been staring at the candle, let out a breath of relief and satisfaction and released the tension in his body.
(You’re really advanced beyond help, huh)
The base of the coated banana. From there, the mark of defeat overflows in large quantities.
Seeing this, the Plain Queen exhaled. Then she looked at the priest who was present.
He must have noticed. The priest nodded and took a deep breath.
『Winner, Kingdom Woman B!』
The declaration was made.
But there was no cheer in the air. There was only a disgruntled murmur.
「Isn’t he just standing still?」
「A match? An Offering? What the hell is this?」
It was only natural that such a comment would be uttered.
The Grim Reaper has a single-digit ranking skill-wise. And yet, he was defeated without making any move at all.
「Don’t joke with me! This is bullshit!」
Grim Reaper who gets abused over time.
The same tournament where he lost to Explosive onee-san last year. Even though the result was the same, that match was a very exciting match.
This year, however, he was just beaten one-sidedly.
「This is the end of Grim Reaper」
「Well, that’s for sure, with how he fought just now」
Grim Reaper was still lying on the stage. Some of the words that were spat out loudly must have reached his ears.
However, they never reached his heart. Although his expression did not change, he was still dreamily enjoying the aftermath.
***
Meanwhile, Andale who runs an apothecary store in the royal capital. He was enjoying watching the game on a different stage of the same hall.
「Gooo Lightning! Use Lightning Sword!!」
He fanned the cold ale with his left hand and swung his right fist around.
The naked, young man with short mustache receiving the cheers had his hands clasped behind his head and was timing back and forth on his mid-waist.
「Uooohhhh! Go Lightning!」
A shout rose as he dove. Lightning thrusts into the woman from out of her range and retreats without allowing her to counterattack.
Again, he begins to swing his hips back and forth in mid-air.
「It’s working, it’s working!」
The crowd erupted in cheers and shouts.
It must have been repeated so many times that the opponent could barely stand.
Suddenly, Lightning’s figure disappears. At the same time, a burst of energy ripped through the air.
「Here it is! It’s the Lightning sword!」
Andale and the rest of the audience cheered loudly. The crowd was very excited at the appearance of this long-awaited special move.
Lightning stepped in so fast that he seemed to disappear. And now he had already caught the woman and was thrusting diagonally downward.
『Match over! Winner, Black Locust country!』
The young beauty collapses and falls on her back with her legs spread wide.
Even though he let go of her body, she still could not stop. From the center of her body, like a whale, she kept fuming over and over again.
The audience stood up and shouted at the sight.
「Lightning! Lightning!」
He turns his waist and takes a swing with his piercing sword. A young man with a mustache cutting off a drop.
When the priest raises his one arm, he answers the call with a smile he’s not used to.
「Wow, it was great. I always wanted to see it, that high speed thrust」
After the match was over, Andale left his seat in a great mood.
This bald-headed old man had been curious about it since he first saw it in a magazine.
「Lightninggg Swoorrdd!」
He puts his hands on the back of his head and shakes his hips. He wasn’t the only one imitating Lightning, he could see others doing the same here and there.
They are probably still in a state of excitement, a common sight after a sports match.
「All that’s left is tomorrow’s match. Now we’ll eat, take a bath, and then go to the stall」
Uhihihi, he smiled happily.
As a store owner in the shopping district, he is also an E rank merchant. As such, he can watch the tournament and enter the stalls in the inner sanctum of the temple.
(Ah… I’ll also have to think of some souvenirs for everyone)
Because he is the representative of the royal capital’s shopping district, he was able to get tickets to watch the tournament. He also received donations from everyone, so spending some money for souvenirs would hardly hurt his own pocket.
Even so, he thinks that he has to be smart and careful about what to buy.
(Oh well, let’s figure it out after the final tomorrow)
Andale quickened his pace, thinking that he might be able to meet the idol group.
He didn’t know yet that the best goods would be sold out on the last day.
