Chapter 2 - The Streets of Ansarivan
The news of the number one problem child in the Academy Ash Blake gotten in an accident in the dragon riding festival and his Pal was finally born spread like wild fire.
However, his finally born young dragon Eco is a girl with horns.
Just to settle Ecoâs problem, there were two main opinions given during the staffâs meeting.
One of the opinions was to send Eco to the dragon house for strict discipline. While the other opinion stated that Eco shouldnât be sent to the dragon house because she looked like a human.
In the end of the day, they couldn't come up with a good solution. That is why all of them agreed on letting Ash took care of Eco in his own room for the mean time.
At the end of the walkway, in the third floor of the Apollo House,
âThis is my room. Hurry!â
After he opened the door, he gave Eco a push on her back.
âGrrrrâŠ. How dare you as a dog to order your master.â
Eco turned around and glared at Ash.
âI donât remember becoming your dog at all!â
âThen you can just be my meat slave!â
âDo you even know what does that mean?â
Eco crossed her arms and smiled proudly.
As usual, she was going to show off her knowledge she get from the Dragweiss.
âIt is a slave who provides its hungry owner with its own meat.â
âI am not some food!â
Ash was getting uneasy with the Dragweiss but he still shoves Eco into the room and ran in himself.
Then he quickly had the door locked.
Students were standing outside along the walls of his room with their ears glue towards the wall. Ash doesnât even have the strength to chase them off.
Apollo House is a dormitory for males.
Every time a beauty with comparable standards to Eco came, there was always a huge uproar.
âHmm⊠What a poor looking room.â
After giving it a glance, Eco stated her first impression.
âI guess this is for today⊠I am gonna sleep.â
Until just moments ago, Ash had been kept held in the infirmary.
After he was found in the ravine and was brought back to the academy, he was questioned by three parties, the board of directors, the staff and the student councils. He was now tired in both physically and mentally.
Eco was blocking Ash who was going to jump into the bed.
âSince I am your master, this bed is mine.â
âHey! Where am I supposed to sleep then!â
âHmph! You can just sleep on the floor!â
âYou gotta be joking!â
âI am not! If you continue to disobey, I am gonna squash you!â
Eco was pointing her fingers at Ash. She then removed the shirt that Ash gave her and move towards the bed.
Her white skin and curves can be seen.
âW-Why are you removing them!â
Ash immediately turn aside, his heart was beating none stop.
Didnât I mention it before, that a proper dragon doesnât need clothes! Canât I have some freedom during my sleeping time!â
Eco angrily answered and moved towards the bed.
In just a while, she was already fast asleep.
Her previous glare had turned into pure angel like.
Ash rest himself on the laid out the futon and blanket.
Although he was not used to sleeping on the floor, he still couldnât resist the urge to sleep.
Since it was a holiday on the next day, he doesnât have to worry about waking up early.
In just a few moments, Ash was already in a deep sleep.
Ash felt something was in his futon and he woke up.
He doesnât have the luxury to continue sleeping.
He felt as if his heart was going to burst.
Before this, Eco had just occupied his bed.
It seems weird that she was now squeezing herself into the futon.
Eco who was still sleeping was gluing herself to Ash. The feel from her skin also caused his heart beat to speed up. Then, he remembered that Eco was naked.
Although Eco was not as sexy as Navi, Navi only appeared in his dreams.
But right now is reality. The softness of her skin and her body heat was not something from a dream could match with.
âThis looks⊠Delicious.â
What kind of dream was she actually dreamingâŠÂ Just when Ash was wondering, Ash felt an unknown feeling on his body and he trembled.
It seemed that Eco had given him a bite.
It can usually been seen doing by a young dragon.
Being nibbled by a Pal was a breederâs privilege.
Every time Ash saw his friends being nibbled, he was full of envy.
But, this nibbleâŠ. Is a little bad for his heart.
Although he knew that Eco is a dragon, she still looked like a girl. Right now, Eco was nibbling his chest.
âPleaseâŠ. StopâŠ!â
Although he asked her to stop, he never really forced it. It doesnât feel bad being nibble by Eco. No, it even felt great.
Unfortunately, it had ended.
It was possible that she was sleeping or even possible that this was a different type of nibble from Eco.
Without any reason, Ecoâs bite was getting stronger and stronger.
âUoooo! It hurts! I really hurts!â
He was horrified by the thought of being eaten. The word food kept on echoing in his mind.
Even though she looked like a girl, Eco was still a dragon.
In the worst case scenario, it would even danger his life.
Ash pushed Eco to the side with all his might. Her teeth marks were left on his chest. Though there was no bleeding, it would probably take a few days for it to disappear.
Without knowing Ashâs troubles, Eco continued to sleep.
-Are days like this going to continue?
She should really be sent to the dragon house for strict disciplineâŠÂ Or at least that was what Ash thought of.
The next morning, Ash was woken up by an unexpected guest.
Since some times before, there seemed to be someone knocking on the door nonstop.
Ash who doesnât have many friends could only think of Raymond and Max.
âCanât I at least have a good rest during my precious weekendsâŠâ
Ash was mumbling while he was walking towards the entrance.
Ash was shocked the instant he opened the door.
âGood morning Ash Blake. You shouldnât oversleep even if it is a weekend.â
Rebecca was standing at the doorway. Right behind her stood Max who was in charge of the accounts with a sour look.
âP-President! This is the boyâs dormitory!â
âBeing called president is a little too stiff and unnecessary.â
âErmm⊠Rebecca-san?â
Ash called out without a second thought which made Rebecca smile.
âHmm⊠Thatâs great. I am here for Eco.â
âI am grateful for you to take your trouble to come here.â
âThat is not necessary. By the way, howâs Eco?â
âShe is still sleepingâŠâ
Ash was startled when he turned around and looked at the bed.
Eco who had just woke up was rubbing her eyes and sat up.
The blanket fall off and her white chest was exposed.
âWha-! Thatâs not the case!â
Max pulled his collar as he was trying to explain the misunderstanding.
âYou beast! Do you even know what you had done!â
Luckily, Rebecca interfered and stopped Max.
âMax! Calm down! They didnât seemed to be sleeping together since there was a futon on the ground. Am I right?â
âThen explain why she is naked!â
Ash started stuttering because of the tone Max was using.
âErm⊠No, that is⊠Eco said she is a proud dragon and she does not require any clothes. Apart from that, I donât have any clothes for her.â
âHmm⊠Just as what I expected. I had brought something for you, donât worry about it.â
After a glance from Rebecca, Max handed Ash a bag unwillingly.
âI gave some clothing to Eco. Though she is a dragon, her appearance is of a girlâs. You canât expect her to be moving around naked. Just take it as a birthday present from the student council.â
âT-Thank you very much. I am savedâŠâ
âHowever, as for the daily needs, you have to buy it yourself. Do you have enough money?â
â⊠It is a little tight.â
Be it a noble family or a traders family, it had nothing to do with Ash who was born in a small village at the borders.
âIf thatâs the case, you just have to fill in this form and pass it to the management.â
The piece of form that Rebecca gave him was used by student to apply for the up taking funds for their Pals.
âStrictly speaking, this is only used to apply for the riding equipment⊠Well, Eco should be a special case. Then, there is one more thing.â
Suddenly Rebecca turned serious. Though she still maintained her statue like beauty, her muscle was all tensed up.
âActually this morning, it had been decided in the staff meeting that Dr.Cornwell was asked by the academy to examine Eco.â
âHuh! By saying Dr.Cornwell you are saying she is thatâŠâ
She owned a laboratory in Ansarivan City and held the highest authority in dragon research. Ash had never seen her before.
âThatâs right. She is that famous person. Since she was always busy, the date to examine Eco had not been decided yet.â
âI understand. No worries, I will take care of Eco until the time.â
Ashâs serious expression made Rebecca smile.
âGood answer. One more thing, after you are done with everything, please drop by the student councilâs office. I had many things that I want to ask you.â
âHmm⊠I will be waiting for you then.â
Rebecca left with a smile while being followed by Max.
âTry putting this onâŠâ
While trying to avoid looking at Ecoâs body with the sun right at her back, he handed her the bag.
Eco suddenly turned angry.
âDidnât I mention it before? I will get into trouble if you donât at least put on some clothes.â
âHmm. Are you trying to say that you are not pleased with my body?â
Eco walk approaching Ash while being fully naked.
Ash was panicking and immediately turned around.
âThat is why I had told you that it is a common knowledge to wear clothes in the human society. Anyway, donât you feel cold with nothing on?â
âHmph. This sunny day is like a give for me who had just been born. It is not necessarily for me to-â
Right at that instant, a yellow butterfly that had lost its way flew into the room and landed on Ecoâs nose.
Ecoâs nose twitched.â
Strong winds were created from her sneeze. Ash was blown up and bang into the ceiling like a frog being ran over.
âOuch! It is just like a dragonâs sneezeâŠâ
Ash who had just crawled up found that he lost the bag. After a quick search, he found out that Rebeccaâs belongings were scattered all round the ground.
To his surprised, Eco was actually holding one.
It looked like she seemed to have interest in it since she was at that age.
Just like what he hoped for, Eco had put on the clothes.
The clothes given by Rebecca was a cute dress that had a similar design to the schoolâs uniform.
Regardless of the collar ribbon or the puff sleeve, it matched Eco perfectly. As for the beret, it could be used to cover up Ecoâs horns.
On the other hand, her boots were stylish and the size fitted perfectly. Ash was amazed at how sharp Rebecca was.
Eco didn't seem dissatisfied when she was looking at the mirror.
âHmm⊠Not a bad design from a dumb human.â
âNnn. By the way, is this Ansarivan, the academic city?â
Ash was surprised by the sudden question.
âAccording to the Dragweiss, there should be many shops on the streets of Ansarivan.
Ash was starting to admire the Dragweiss. It seemed that Eco inherited a huge amount of knowledge. It would be perfect if they didnât have any knowledge on those weird stuffs.
âHuh? What did you just say?â
âI said⊠I will allow you to bring me to look around the streets!â
Eco turned aside with her cheeks blushing.
Ash gave a wry smile. It seemed that Eco wanted him to bring her for a walk in the town.
Though the Dragweiss may be useful, it still didnât feel safe walking on the streets alone. The reason she didnât ask Ash directly had probably to do with her honour as a dragon.
âAlright then, even a dragon needs a walk.â
âDonât say it like you are bringing a dog for a walk!â
Ash almost fainted from being punched right in the belly.
After claiming two thousands Eccles for the up taking of his Pal from the management, Ash brought Eco to the city.
Two thousand Eccles is equivalent to a month worth of job pay of a government official. Of course this was the first time he held such a large amount of money.
âThis is AnsarivanâŠ!â
Eco was amazed the moment she stepped into the streets. Even though she had knowledge regarding this, still, the real thing never failed to amaze her.
The amount of people increased the moment they entered the main street. Since today was also a holiday, most of the people were students.
On both sides of the streets were stalls and the street was full of the smells of foods.
Suddenly, Ecoâs stomach gave a loud growl.
All the pedestrians around were shocked. Nothing less could be expected from a dragon.
âI-It is not like I have any choice. I havenât even taken my breakfast yet!â
Ash could understand why she was embarrassed about her stomach rumbling while she can walk around naked.
âYeah right, I almost forgottenâŠâ
Ash had not taken any breakfast because of Rebeccaâs visit. All of a sudden, Ash started to feel hunger too.
Eco was puffing her checks in protest to Ash.
âA dragon must eat five time a day, donât you know that!â
âI heard about it during my years in the basic class⊠But is that really a necessity?â
Ash was looking at Ecoâs small body frame in disbelieve.
âThe daily cost is going to increaseâŠâ
âWhat did you just say?â
âMm⊠Whatâs that? What a nice smell!â
Eco was pointing at a stall. A noisy group of girls of Ashâs age were gathering there.
âThatâs a crepe stall.â
âHuh? Is it not recorded in the Dragweiss?â
âIt is just a food. There is no need to purposely access the Dragweiss. It requires magic to make a search!â
âI see⊠Crepe is a popular dessert in Ansarivan. Do you want to have a try?â
Basically, dragons are omnivores. They shouldnât have any problems eating crepes. At least that was what Ash thought.
There were three girls before them and Ash and Eco were queuing up at the back.
âIs it our turn yet?â
âWe need to be patient. It is bad to cut queue.â
âHmph⊠Looks like we donât have a choice. However, since they have the guts to make a dragon wait, it better be good or else I will have this store crushed.â
âThat doesn't sounds goodâŠâ
Suddenly Ash felt that someone was staring at him.
âNothing. I just thought that I felt someone staring at us.â
âHuh? It is impossible for someone looking at us in such streets.â
â⊠I donât think that I have enough confidence to say that.â
Since ages ago, Ash's intuition had always been sharp.
If it was not because of that, he wouldn't be able to spot Milgauss in the forest.
â⊠It must have been my imagination.â
He had become oversensitive due to that incident.
Right at that moment, the girl standing right in front of him had ordered an Ansal flavored crepe.
In just a moment a rose-like smell filled the air.
âI think I am going to have an Ansal.â
After taking a look at the price list, an Ansal crepe cost about a hundred Glorins. While the rest cost only fifty Glorines. Although it was a little expensive, with the money he received for up taking a Pal, this is nothing.
âWhat about you, Eco?â
Without any reason, was straightening her chest proudly.
âHuhu, of course it is Ansal. It is the etiquette of a dragon.â
The so called Ansal was a high quality herb that was produced in Ansarivan. Apart from the usual use as spice, it was also loved by the dragons. To them, it was similar to cigarettes and booze to humans.
Finally it was Ash and Ecoâs turn.
âTwo Ansal crepes please.â
After receiving the orders, the shopkeeper roasted the batter with an amazing speed. When it was almost done, the shopkeeper place some pale green coloured cream on it.
The area surrounding them was full of the smell of Ansal.
Eco was looking at the shopkeeper in amaze. Ashâs heart skipped a beat for a moment when he saw Eco with a look of curiosity.
Stop! Eco is a dragonâŠÂ Ash hurriedly reminded himself.
There was a public bench not far away from the store. Since it was empty, both Ash and Eco sat on it.
Eco was eating her crepe.
âNnn⊠It is delicious!â
âThank god. The store is now safe from being crushed.â
âDonât joke with me! Whoever dare to lay a finger on it have to go through me first!â
âHmm⊠Anyway, I think only you have to ability to crush it.â
In just a few seconds, Eco finished her crepe completely. She seemed to be not satisfied with it and was eying Ashâs.
Since he was surprised by Ecoâs eating speed, Ash havenât even taken a single bite.
âHaa⊠Guess I donât have a choice. Wanna have a bite?â
âWell, I can't bear seeing you with that kind of face.â
Eco was overjoyed when Ash handed her his crepe.
Her innocent looks while eating the crepe was like a small animal. Ash suddenly felt like he was feeding his pet.
After eating, tightening her fist and declared:
âIt had been decided! This will be my meal!â
âThis is just for dessert. You have to eat meat if you are a dragon! Or else you wonât grow!â
âHow dare a mere dumb human like you order me! Have you forgotten that I am your ownerâŠ. Aaa!â
Suddenly, Eco was blushing and was panting.
âHey⊠are you alright?â
âM-My bodyâŠ. It is hotâŠâ
Eco was suddenly embracing Ash with watery eyes.
Their limbs were rubbing against each other.
Ash could feel Eco body heat through the clothes.
âHey⊠What are you doing?â
âN-No more⊠I canâtâŠ.â
Ash could feel her chest.
Then, Eco started licking his the area around his collar.
Ash turned numb from being licked by her soft and warm tongue.
ââŠ.Eco? What is happening?â
âPlease⊠Do something⊠I-I canâtâŠ. No moreâŠ!â
Just when Ash was getting confused, the rosy lips was approaching him.
Beneath the lips were pearl like teeth.
There were smells of Ansal mixed in within her hot breath.
âCould it be thatâŠ!â
Ash could only think of the only explanation.
This is caused by the Ansal.
Ansals were loved by dragon. To them, Ansal were like tobacco and booze in the human world.
Though she was born with the look of a girl, at the same time she is also a young dragon. It seemed that it was bad to her if she took in a huge amount of Ansal.
âEco! P-PleaeseâŠ. I beg you!â
Eco was approaching him like an animal in heat.
If this were to be left alone, they will be caught for disrupting the peace of the city.
âMama, what are both of them doing?â
âDonât look! Just keep moving!â
Just as expected, glares from the people around were piercing him. Although Ash felt like running away right at this moment, he couldnât even stand up from being held tightly by Eco.
At that moment, someone was standing beside Ash.
âW-What are you thinkingâŠ.? Doing something as shameless as this in the public!â
The scold shocked Ash. It sounded familiar. No, it doesnât just sound familiar.
As expected, he saw Princess Silvia her royal highness herself.
âThe enemy of women shall face the hammer of death! This is my family motto!â
An iron fist that had enough force to break a rock swung at his face.
âWith this, you should be alright.â
The person who took care of Eco was Silviaâs maid, Cosette Shelley.
Since she herself was quite a famous person in the academy, Ash knew a little about her. Even though they were on the streets, Cosette was wearing the palaceâs maid attire. Quite a number of people were looking at her out of curiosity.
Eco started to regain her sense after drinking the water given to her by Cosette who had gotten it from a nearby shop. According to Cosette, the Ansal will be diluted if a huge amount of water was drunk.
Although her checks were still red, at least she could finally sit still. Ash breathe a sigh of relieve.
âThank you, Cosette-san. You really help me thereâŠâ
âTee Hee, you are welcome.â
âTsk. I am surprise that you fed a young dragon Ansal! What had you learn in class!â
âDidnât Princess-sama fed the newborn Lancelot with Ansal Tea too?â
âDonât talk about the past!â
Silvia was blushing. It seems she too had the same experience.
âBefore that, why was she born in the form of a human and not a dragon? It had become a rumor in the entire academy.â
âHuh? I didnât knew that Princess-sama who donât even have a friend would be interested in gossip.â
Silvia was blushing again.
âBe quiet! I-I had not interest in any kind of gossip. Cosette was always talking about all kinds of things, it was just by chance that I heard it!â
âHuhu⊠Every time I mention about Ash-sama, didnât you become excited?â
In truth, everyone knew that Silvia was always alone.
She would make everyone nervous with just her presence alone.
It happened not because of her status as a Princess. Alright, it is probably one of the reasons. However, the main reason was because of her stubbornness.
âWell, doesnât everything turned out well. At least you had found Ash-sama.â
After being pointed out by Cosette, not only her checks, even her ears were red.
âWhat are you talking about! I did not come to the streets on purpose just to search for him!â
âAlright, alright. We will take what you said as the truth. Heehee...â
Although Cosette looked like an honest person at a first glance, she was actually a bully. Silvia was almost in tears.
âDidnât Princess-sama have something to say to Ash-sama? Please donât worry about me. I will turn around and face the other side.â
âDon't joke with me! Even when you are facing the other side, you will still try to listen!â
âHuhu. That is the duty of a maid. Just take me as the statue of Venus at the end of a street.â
âVenus! You look more like the reincarnation of MĂłrrĂgan herself!â [1]
At that moment, Ecoâs nose twitched.
A strong wind was created in front of Eco and it had flipped up Silviaâs skirt.
Also, the knots on both sides of her waist were all imprinted in Ashâs mind.
Just when Silviaâs iron fist was going to knock into Ashâs face, Eco made her move.
She stretched her arms from under Ashâs armpits and stopped Silvia. It seemed to be a reaction only possessed by dragons. It seemed that she was no longer drunk.
Ash was surprised that Eco protected him.
âWhat are you doing?â
Silvia asked in a cold voice.
âYou on the other hand. What are you trying to do when you are just a dumb human. This personâs master is no other than me. The only person in this world who can punish him is me!â
âWhat kind of logic is that!â
Eco and Silvia were confronting each other as if Ash was unrelated.
Silvia was the first one who backed off. She lowered her fist and turned around. Her golden hair looked dazzling while being blown by the air.
âAsh Blake! I have only one thing to tell you!â
Silvia turned around facing them.
âT-That is⊠What I had told you previously was wrong.â
âDuring that time, I lost my temper. In truth, your Pal was born successfully.â
Silvia who was embarrassed had her sight wandering around. At one moment when her sight and Ashâs connected, she immediately looked away.
Seeing that, Cosette was grinning with a hand in front of her mouth.
âI-In another words⊠Err⊠How should I put this⊠I will take back what I said. Admitting oneâs fault is one of my familyâs motto!â
âThen I too will take my leave.â
After announcing her leave, Cosette gracefully waved her skirt and left following Silvia.
Ashâs mind turned blank after being suddenly apologized to.
-Like master, like dragon, maybe it died long ago!
During that time, Ash challenged Silvia just to make her take back her words. Since he lost the race, he didnât think it is necessary for her to apologize. Furthermore, he was no longer haunted by her words since Eco was born safely.
However, Silvia still insisted on apologizing even though she was the winner.
âHmm⊠She would definitely be the most popular person in the entire academy if she had always acted this way.â
Ash grinned. The next moment, he felt pain on both sides of his cheeks.
It seemed that Eco was squeezing the both sides of his checks.
Eco was glaring at him with a half-opened eye.
âCould it be that⊠You have some special feeling for that female? Or is that you have forgotten that I am your master?â
âF-ForryâŠ(S-SorryâŠ).â
If he ever tried to object, he feared that his face would be squashed. Thus, Ash apologized.
After buying Ecoâs daily needs, Ash was standing in front of a public toilet with both of his hands full of grocery bags. Eco had mentioned that she needed to use the toilet and that is why Ash was standing there.
âHow long is she going to make me wait!â
She had entered the toilet for some time and had no sign of her coming out. To make it worst, Ash could take a peek since it was the ladies.
âWhat is it? Please donât bother me.â
âAre you interested in the ladies?â
âOf course. If I am allowed, I would even enter and take a good look...â
âSo you are this kind of a person⊠It was wrong of me to think highly of you, Ash Blake!â
Ash immediately came back to his sense. Who exactly was the person who was talking to him?
Unfortunately, the moment he turned around, he was kicked.
âOuch! What the hell are you doing!â
Ash regretted what he just said.
âWhat the hell are you doingâŠ? Yeah, right. That was what I was going to ask you!â
The person in front of Ash was not some stranger. Right now, she was scolding with her arm crossed. Her golden hair at this moment looked like a lion.
As usual, Cosette was following Silvia from behind and was smiling.
âWhy were you standing around suspiciously in front of the ladies? You look like a total pervert no matter how I look at you.â
âNo⊠It is just that Eco had not come out from the toilet yet and I am a little worried. That all is what I was thinking. Nothing apart from that.â
âWhy donât you mention it earlier? I will take a look in your stead if you are okay with it.â
Ash was grateful for Cosetteâs help.
âLetâs go, Princess-sama.â
âHelping those in need is the responsibility of a royal. Thatâs is from the proud family motto of the Lautreamont Knight Family.â
Silvia was in shock when the driving seat was taken away from her by Cosette. She then hurriedly entered the ladies.
Moments later, Silvia and Cosette returned.
âWe didnât see Eco but in exchange, we found this on the floor.â
What Silvia was holding was Ecoâs beret.
âThis⊠This is definitely Ecoâs hat. But why?â
Since Eco entered the toilet, Ash had been standing all along at the entrance.
He will defiantly see her if she had walked out.
âApart from the hat, we also collected these.â
Cosette who was standing beside Silvia showed him a handkerchief.
Inside the handkerchief were sparkling powders.
âIn my opinion, it should be the powders of a Bright Dragon crystal.â
A Bright Dragon Crystal is the crystallization of the dragonâs magic. At the same time, it was used to activate the Oracle.
Without borrowing the powers from the Bright Dragon Crystal, humans were unable to use magic. In the first place, it was the dragons that brought magic into this continent.
âIt was possible that someone kidnapped Eco with the use of the oracle.â
Ash was full of shivers when he heard Silvia.
âThat is why I kept on having the feeling of someone peeping at us.â
âReally? Then the culprit must have been targeting Eco since the start.â
âStop panicking! Try thinking what you had learned in class.â
She was staring at him with her ice blue eyes.
âThe bond between the breeder and his dragon will not break this easily. Even if you canât see it, there is the Astral flow.â
âOf course I knew that. It is just that what am I suppose to do?â
âIf she is a Maestro, you just have to summon her⊠But it will be impossible for a newborn. In another world, you have to go to her.â
âBut how the hell am I to know where she was!â
âThat is why you must stop panicking. As a breeder, you should have a Seikoku branded on your skin given to you by the mother dragon.â
Ash certainly has the Seikoku branded on his left arm. Unfortunately, he had lost his memories of the meeting with the mother dragon. But, of course this is not a good time to discuss that.
âTell me what should I do?â
âThe Seikoku is not just a mere tattoo. It is the door for the Astral Flow.â
âBy the way⊠During the time when Eco was born, I certainly remember that my Seikoku reacted.â
âPut your thoughts on remembering that feeling. Then call out to Eco.â
Ash finally knew what she was asking him to do.
âI will give it a try. Thank you, Princess-sama.â
âN-No need for that! Dragons are holy beasts that symbolized our country. It is my duty to help those who are in need!â
After saying, she turned around.
Cosette was grinning from behind.
Ash rolled up his sleeve and removed his bandage. The sight of his Seikoku gave Silvia a shock.
âT-That is your seikoku?â
Ash had always hated his Seikoku. If it is possible, he wouldnât even want anyone to know about it. But, right now, it is an emergency.
âWhat should we do next?â
âIt is hard to describe this in wordsâŠ. First, focus your thoughts on the Seikoku. Then, think strongly about Eco.â
âThis seems to be overly abstract. Are you sure about this?â
âIt is not like I have a choice. The Seikoku was the product of magic. It would be impossible to describe it using a human language since the beginning.â
âWell, anyway⊠I will give it a go!â
Under the sight of both Silvia and Cosette, Ash lifted his left arm and held his left wrist with his right hand.
Next, he focused his thoughts on the Seikoku on his left arm.
Ash could somehow feel the Seikoku being heated up.
âPlease⊠Tell me Ecoâs locationâŠâ
After a few mumbles, Ash was thinking only about Eco.
Since he was seven, Eco who was in his body had never left his side even once.
Eco should had born earlier, had overslept for an extra three years.
Even so, Ash had always been waiting.
Even when he was looked down upon, he had always been waiting.
Eco was finally born. Although it was unexpected and there were many unexplained stuff going on, still there was one obvious truth.
âAnswer me, pleaseâŠâ
Suddenly, Ashâs Seikoku had turned red.
The magic from the Seikoku had taken the form of a butterfly. It seemed to be leading Ash.
The location should be where Eco was.
Comapre to Ash who was over the moon, Silvia and Cosette seemed confused.
ââŠWhat do you see?â
It seemed that Silvia and Cosette were unable to see the butterfly formed from his Seikoku. First, Ash donât have the time to explain to them and secondly, he did not know how to put this into words.
âI am heading to where Eco is!â
Ash started chasing after the butterfly.
âHold on! It is dangerous to go there alone! I will go with you!â
âI will follow Princess-sama even if we are heading to hell.â
âPlease donât speak off such unlucky stuff!â
Ash was not bothered by any of them and continued to chase after the butterfly.
The butterfly that was formed from magic could easily fly pass humans. Ash and the rest were avoiding the other pedestrian while they were running along the alley.
The butterfly had finally arrived at an isolated corner of the eastern district. It was a mansion built in the middle of a huge land. Since it was old, it looked like a haunted house. It had not yet been confirmed whether there is anyone staying there.
âA-Are you sure that Eco was here?â
Silvia who was usually full of confidence had turned pale.
âThe Seikoku had certainly showed us this place.â
âHey, you donât look good at all. Could it be thatâŠ. You are scared?â
Though Ash was just fooling around, Silvia overly responded.
It was obvious that Silvia was lying. Although she doesnât look like it, she was actually very timid.
âA-Anyway, we can only depend on the Seikokuâs lead. In the worst case scenario, I just have to summon Lancelot and have this place burnt down.â
âHuhu. This is more like it.â
âNo, it is bad to summon Lancelot in the middle of the streets! Cosette-san, please donât encourage her!â
Just when they were arguing, the butterfly flew into the house.
Silvia was right, right now, they could only depend on the Seikoku.
Ash pushed open the metal door. âCrrrreeekâ comes the sound for the rust rubbing against each outher.
âWhat in the world is that?â
Once they stepped into the garden, Silvia turned shocked.
Every certain distant was a stone slab. It looked as if it was a magic circle. At the top of the stone slab was a Bright Dragon Crystal. All of them were glittering.
Although they were unclear of its usage, it seemed to be able to activate the Oracle.
âThese stone slabs certainly looked weird.â
Ash too had stopped his tracks and was looking at the stone slabs.
âFor a rundown looking house to posses such a huge amount of bright dragon crystal, it certainly doesnât look natural. You usually have to have a huge amount of money to buy this amount of Bright Dragon Crystal⊠I have a bad feeling. First, let us check the background of the owner of this houseâŠâ
âWe donât have time for that. We must first save Eco.â
Ash rejected her suggestion and rushed in. It is not that Silviaâs suggestion was wrong. It was just that they donât have the time to do any investigation before they found about Ecoâs condition.
âH-Hold on! W-Wait for me!â
As expected, Silvia who was timid hurriedly chase after Ash.
Being shone under the familiar warm light, Eco woke up with a yawn.
She still remembered that she was in the toilet of the shopping district and was going to wash her hands. Her memories after that were blank.
After realizing in what kind of a situation she was in, Eco was horrified.
âW-What is the meaning of this!â
Eco was lying down facing the ceilings while she was being tired up. Apart from her knee socks, she was stark naked.
The tools that were used to tie her up were made from strong materials. Eco couldnât move an inch even after she tried with her entire might.
âWhat is happeningâŠ?â
There was not even a single window. The sources of lights were from lamps powered by Bright Dragon Crystals. Eco was probably familiar with this kind light because she is a dragon.
In the area around her were many medical tools. The bookshelves by the walls were also stuffed full with documents.
There was a dragon model that was being placed on a table. It was not just a model but also a specimen. It doesnât feel good looking at it.
At that moment, a door was opened slowly.
The person by the door was a woman wearing a spectacle.
âWho are you? How dare you to do such a thing to me!â
âI can see that you are in a high spirit. I like it.â
Ecoâs threat was useless against the woman.
âClank! Clank!âIt was the sounds of her heels when she approached Eco.
âIt is really unbelievable that a dragon was born in the form of a human.â
The womanâs words had caught Ecoâs attention. It seemed that she kidnapped her while knowing that she is a dragon.
âWhat actually was the dragon thinking? For them to send a young dragon like you into this world?â
âH-How am I to know!â
The woman had become more curious.
âDid you really not know? Didnât you share the memories of your dragon ancestral? According to the ancient documents, such a thing happens.â
âIf you are talking about the Dragweiss, then to further disappoint you, I canât access it on my own yet.â
âI see. So, I just have to question your body directly.â
Suddenly the womanâs hand started to move.
There was a silver flash right in front of Ecoâs nose.
With a closer look, the thing that pierced the wall was a scalpel.
âD-Donât tell me thatâŠ. YouâŠâ
The woman replied naturally while taking out a second scalpel.
âDissection is the basic for biology.â
Ash was running on the corridor where its floor had started creaking.
Every time they saw a spider or a rat, Silvia would give a squeak. Although Ash would like to look at her while she was making those looks, his priority was to save Eco.
Ever since just moments before, a change occurred in his Seikoku on his left arm. It was getting hotter and lights started glowing. Though all the windows in the house were sealed up, thanks to the lights from his Seikoku, they were able to see clearly.
Finally, the Seikoku led them to a door that led to the basement.
Just when Ash was wandering whether he should try calling out or bang in, Silvia made her move.
âMove to a side! I will have it blow open!â
Ash who turned pale took a few steps back. Silvia took out a red Bright Dragon Crystal.
At the same time the Bright Dragon Crystal glows, a power was shot at the door.
After a loud bang, the door blast opened.
Ash shouted the moment he entered the room. Because it was excessively done by Silvia, dark smokes appeared all over the place.
Ash was worried that Eco was injured by it.
Finally the smoke cleared.
ââŠWhat a rude bunch of brats.â
Standing right in front of Ash was a lady in white.
Her spectacles made her look like someone knowledgeable. As for her age, she looked like she was around twenty five. Also, she was wearing a white lab coat which made her look like a doctor or a researcher.
Right behind her was Eco lying stark naked while being tied up.
âWhat are you doing to my Pal!â
Ash was full of rage when he saw Eco lying in that condition.
Eco was almost in tears when she saw Ash.
âYou are late! Untie me this instant!â
âSorryâŠ. Why am I apologizing?â
Eco was getting mad but since she was tied up, Ash couldnât feel her imposingness. On the other hand, her looks made it bad for Ashâs heart.
After moving his sight away from Eco, Ash was glaring at the women in white.
âWhat is the meaning of this?â
âI am just performing my duties given by the academy. Alright, I admit that my method is a little too forceful.â
The woman answered calmly.
âDuties given by the academy?â
Just when Ash was being confused, Silvia who was standing behind him suddenly shouted.
âShe is⊠Dr.Angela Cornwell.â
âI had heard rumors that the professor had a laboratory in the city⊠Never in my entire life had I ever thought that it is located in this kind of a place.â
âYou must be kiddingâŠâ
âDoctor, I had always been a fan of your thesis.â
Silvia took a step forward and shook hands with Angela in the same way she would have treat a countryâs guest.
âIt is my honour, your highness.â
Angela who answered without hesitating had somehow loosen the tension.
Ash was staring at her with his mouth wide open.
It was a name he had heard from Rebecca that morning itself. She was a highly rated scholar whom was asked by the academy to examine Eco.
However, Rebecca had mentioned that she was busy and it may require some time before she could examine Eco.
Since everything was written on Ashâs face, Angela smiled.
âI always receive many boring request from the academy. Though at first I was not at all interested in this at allâŠ. My motivation gushed out when I heard that a dragon was born in the form of a human. I had been spying at both of you since this morning.â
It appears that the feeling of someone spying on them that Ash had was from Angela.
âSince you just received your request from the academy in the morning⊠How did you manage to spot us?â
âAsh-kun, I had always been noticing you. Arenât you the Breeder who doesnât have a Pal? At the same time, arenât you also the genius who can ride on any dragon? It is you who didnât knew that you are famous through the school.â
âI see⊠Wait! Hold on!â
Ash was overjoyed when he was praised by a beautiful adult woman. However, he regained his sense immediately.
âNo matter what the reasons are, what you are doing is kidnapping! On the other hand, what are you trying to do with that scalpel!â
âOf course for dissecting.â
Angela answered as if it was a natural thing to do.
âD-Dissecting! Are you serious!â
âThatâs right. Even if it is a dragon, we would have to dissect it if we want to know more.â
ââŠYou disappoint me! Eco is going home with me!â
After he declared, Ash moved towards Eco.
âI wonât allow that.â
Angela blocked right in front of Ash.
ââŠWhat are you trying to do?â
âHow would I let such an interesting sample walk away easily. Also⊠Apart from her, there is another thing that caught my interests.â
Angela was staring at Ashâs Seikoku.
Only then Ash remembered that he had forgotten that his Seikoku was exposed.
âSo thatâs a Seikoku huh? Until today, I had seen many Breederâs Seikoku, but something like that is a first time for me. Can I take a closer look?â
âAbsolutely not! You donât even know the reason why I tried so hard to hide this!â
When Ash was enrolled in the academy, there were many students who noticed his abnormal Seikoku and treated him like a monster.
In truth, to the rest of the people, it looked like an ill omen.
âI see⊠You are afraid of your own Seikoku.â
Ash cheeks were getting hot. Just as Angela had said, Ash was afraid of his own Seikoku.
âHey! Donât ignore me!â
Ecoâs call had averted his attention away from his Seikoku.
Eco was still being tied.
âAnyway, please move aside!â
âThen we will have Her Highness to decide this.â
Silvia was troubled because the topic was suddenly shifted to her.
âA-About this⊠I can more or less know how the professor feels. Since Eco was undeniably a special dragon.â
âAs expected from Her Highness.â
Her words made Angela smile. However Silvia still continued to speak.
âBut, dragons are holy beasts that symbolized our country. I will not allow you to dissect her!â
Although her explanations seemed to be slightly off topic, Ash was still thankful for that.
â⊠How disappointing.â
At that instant, Ash felt that the air in the room had turned sticky.
âPrincess-sama, please stay alert! Angela is well known for doing what it takes to make her research a success.â
Although she was speaking in a calm tone, Cosetteâs face had gotten serious. She stood in front of Silvia and was facing Angela.
â... Not bad for just a maid.â
Angelaâs facial expression had changed. Killing intents were gushing out from behind the two lenses.
âProfessorâŠ. Donât try anything rash. I can summon Lancelot anytime.â
âThat doesnât bother me at all. Why donât you give it a try?â
Silvia was holding her Bright Dragon Crystal.
âIn the name of Silvia Lautreamont! Lancelot! Answer my summon!â
There was just only the sound of her voice.
Ten seconds had passed, twenty seconds had passed⊠A minute had passed.
Nothing had happened at all. The room was full of silent. Ash was hoping for Lancelot to make a magnificent appear.
âH-How is this possible!â
Silvia was speaking out her mind.
âHave you not notice? This mansion is being protected in an Oracle field.â
âCould it be those stone slabs in the gardenâŠ!â
Angela gave a victorious smile.
âCorrect. That device was used to create a barrier by using the Oracle. No matter what you do, as long as you are in this room, Lancelot will never arrive. This device was normally used to prevent any break in.â
âPrevent any break in? Then the reason that we are able to enter easily isâŠ?â
âJust as expected from Her Highness herself. When I found out about the both of you, I had the device shut off.â
Then way of Angelaâs speech had become crueler.
âPrincess-sama⊠This person is dangerous. We have to leave this place even if we are forced to use Ash-san as a meat shield.â
What Cosette said was bothering Ash and he made a comment on it, then he immediately turned around facing Angela.
âAre you sure that you want to do this? You will be charged for treason by just pointing your knife at Princess-sama.â
âSo? Even a Princess shall not bother with my research.â
âSeems like we have to resolve this by force.â
While she was speaking, she activated the Oracle.
After a shout, a flash came from her Bright Dragon Crystal and then it was followed by a bang.
While trying to keep himself from being blown away from the blast, Ash grumbled:
âI think you over did this! Even with all this, she is still a professor that be considered as the countryâs treasure!â
âIt is not like I have a choice! This magic itself is hard to control!â
âBoth of you, donât you think that this is not a right time to argue?â
The person who had interrupted the both of them was unexpectedly Cosette. She was staring at the pile of smoke.
âYou thought that you could win by using Oracle?â
Angela remains standing even after the smoke had cleared. Apart from her lab coat being torn and smoked, she was totally fine.
Ash noticed her bracelet had a black stone on it.
It was not just a normal rock.
Judging from it special radiance, it should be a Bright Dragon Crystal.
âNow that I think of it, the professor was famous for using the OracleâŠâ
Angela smiled at Silvia as if she was pitting her.
âIt is too late. I will not allow you to leave this place until I am done with dissecting her. Dark Mother Lullaby!â
After she had summoned the Oracle, a flash came from the Bright Dragon Crystal on her bracelet.
At the same time, there was also a change on the floor.
Beautiful patterns started to appear.
âThis⊠A magic circle.â
Silvia lost her balance right after she cursed.
Cosette who tried to help Silvia had also lost her balance.
âUrgh⊠What is thisâŠ?â
Ashâs legs too had started to betray him.
Although his consciousness still remains, with just a little push, he would be baited by the Oracle.
âThis is a magic circle drawn using the powder of a Bright Dragon Crystal. We wonât be able to learn this in the academy. ButâŠ. How do you manage to remain conscious?â
Angela was looking at Ash with looks of unbelievable.
âWhat are you doing! If you fall asleep right now⊠I will never forgive you!â
Eco was shouting even when she had turned pale white.
Ecoâs tone was still being haughty. But considering Ash had fallen and she was going to be dissect, it was understandable.
Ashâs Seikoku was burning.
Ash's Seikoku was glowing with red colour similar to yesterday when Eco was born. Right now, it looked like a burning torch.
Ash was shocked from the amount of heat burning on his left arm.
For the first time, Angelaâs face looked shaken.
âCould it be that⊠Ecoâs magic was sent through the Astral FlowâŠ?â
Anyway, Angela seems to notice the change of Ashâs left arm.
Ash swung his left arm the same moment he stood up.
The winds created had blown off the magic circle. At the same time, Angelaâs bracelet was destroyed and the black Bright Dragon Crystal broke into pieces.
Angela who was always calm was definitely shaken.
âReturn my Pal right at this moment!â
While ignoring Angela who was stunned, Ash move towards Eco.
The strong binding tools were broken by Ash in just a blink of an eye.
â*Sob*⊠You are late!â
Eco who was freed was hugging Ash while complaining. Then she started crying.
This was an unexpected development for Ash and he started panicking.
For the time being, Ash tried comforting her by patting her back. But just as he touched her bare backâŠ
It was probably that Ashâs fingers were cold or Ecoâs body was over sensitive, her body jerked.
âYou⊠How dare a pet like you dare to touch me!â
Once again Eco swung her fist and Ash was knocked against the wall.
Time flew pass. Without noticing, it was already four in the evening.
After leaving the laboratory, the four of them were heading back to the dormitory.
Eco who was tired of crying was sleeping peacefully on Ashâs back. Her face looked like an angel.
âGood grief, what a bad day⊠Sorry for involving you even though it was our problem.â
âDonât worry about it. It was Princess-sama who chose to save Eco.â
Cosette who was walking side by side with Ash was smiling. Although she too was carrying Silvia who was fast asleep, her footsteps were steady.
Just like Eco, Silvia who was always acting strict looked just like angel after she was fast asleep.
âCosette, are you alright?â
After Ash had saved Eco, she immediately stood up. Since Silvia had yet to be woken up, it signifies that Angelaâs was using a strong magic. However, Cosette doesnât seem to be affected at all.
During the entire time, it was Cosette who found Ecoâs clothes, Cosette who coaxed Eco and Cosette who help Eco put on her clothes.
If it was Ash, he would be panicking all along in the laboratory.
âHuhu. That is because I am a maid.â
âIt is just because of this?â
Cosette was always replying him with a smile that could even ward off evil. Even Angelaâs anger was soothed by her smile.
âAsh-san I actually have a favour to ask.â
âPlease keep todayâs incident a secret. It is becauseâŠâ
Ash understood what Cosette was trying to say.
To save Eco, Silvia had trespassed Angelaâs mansion and was put to sleep from an Oracle. It is be a disgrace to the royal family.
âI understand. Though it is a pity that I am unable to announced Angelaâs bad doing, I still think that she had gotten what she deserved.â
Seeing Ash smiles, Cosette burst out into laughter.
âWhen she found out that her Oracle was useless against Ash-sama, she was in a shock. During that time, Ash-sama looked great.â
Ashâs heart was beating nonstop since this was the first time he was praised by a girl.
âThatâs not it. During that time, I was only thinking of saving Eco. Putting that aside, have you been watching the whole incident?â
As if she was trying to hide something, Cosette just replied with a playful smile.
Once again, a woman who is full of secretsâŠÂ Ash thought so.
Something happened out of Ashâs expectation.
Even before the first period, the students were silenced by a woman in white who entered the classroom.
Ash and Silvia shouted at the same time. Everyone around was staring at them.
The lady stood on the podium and smiled.
âI am Angela Cornwell. I came here as replacement of your previous homeroom teacher Sebastian-sensei who had retired.â
There should be one more year before Sebastian-sensei reached his retirement age. This should be the work of Angela.
According to the academy, it is an honour to be able to hire a person like Angela as a teacher.
âYou can call me âAngela-senseiâ.â
Both Ash and Silvia were staring at Angela with their mouth opened.
âS-She never learnsâŠâ
Since their teacher was suddenly changed into a beautiful lady, while being led by Raymond, all of the boys in the class were cheering except Ash.
Needless to say, Angela was still targeting Eco.
âPlease take care of me.â
Just as expected, Angela was glaring at Ash with her eagle like eyes with a cold smile.
"My Baby Dragon ~A.S.B.1365.4~" is closed.
References and Translation Notes
Jump upâ The MorrĂgan("phantom queen") is a figure from Irish mythology who appears to have been considered a goddess of battle, strife, and sovereignty