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1魔法科高校の劣等生
2Mahouka Koukou no Rettousei
3Master Clans Conference Chapter (I)
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6Satou Tsutomu
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8Illustrations by Ishida Kana
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19Chapter 1
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24January 2nd, 2097 A.D., the news that had spread from the Magic Association early into the New Year had produced a big shock among related parties.
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26The person who made such an announcement was one of the Family Heads of the Ten Master Clans, Yotsuba Maya, from the Yotsuba Family.
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28The included contents were the chosen heiress of the Yotsuba Family, as well as the engagement of the next Family Head.
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30It meant that the Yotsuba Family was moving forward to the next generation. Shiba Miyuki was named as the next Family Head of the Yotsuba, and unexpectedly, Shiba Tatsuya was also chosen as her fiancé. Both pieces of news became a major announcement for the next era of Japan’s Magic Community.
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32However, this news didn’t just place expectations on the “New Era”.
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34Anxiety and shock rippled through those who knew about Tatsuya and Miyuki. Leaving out the fact they were both related to the Yotsuba Family (in some way) which they had hidden up until now, it was revealed they were also not real siblings. The emotional rivalry among the girls and boys had, perhaps, seen this as a “bolt from the blue”, which was a natural outcome with the events as they were.
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36Among those to be jarred from this was the Ichijou Family’s eldest son from the Ten Master Clans, Ichijou Masaki.
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42January 2nd, 4 P.M., Masaki came back from the New Year’s Ritual and went to his father’s parlor after being summoned.
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44It was rare for Masaki’s father to be around the house at this time. He was usually moving around the seabed looking for resources for his mining company, as that was the official family business. Otherwise he would be overseeing the training of Magicians under the Ichijou Family, hence he wouldn’t return home before dinner. However, during the first three days of the New Year, he had to receive greetings as the Head of the Ichijou Family of the Ten Master Clans. For better or worse, his obligation as a Family Head required him to stay put in the house.
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46The Ichijou Family’s Mansion has a Western-style partitioned structure, and the room to greet the guests was located at the end of a long hallway attached to a parlor which was designed according to Japanese-style architecture, like a Samurai-styled mansion.
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48Masaki arrived in front of his father’s parlor, and knelt down in the hallway before knocking on the door rather than suddenly barging into the room.
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50“It’s me, Masaki.”
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52“Come in.”
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54He received a rough response from the other side of the sliding door.
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56The voice was unlike Masaki’s who had the tone of a young nobleman, but it was not an uncouth voice. Rather, it had a wild vibe to it that you could feel in your belly regardless of the volume.
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58“Excuse me.”
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60He opened the sliding door while kneeling down, and soon after entering the room, he knelt down again. It might appear as excess politeness between parent and child, but it suits the good behavior and sensibility of Masaki.
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62On the other hand, his father, Gouki, who was wearing a haori hakama with the family crest hanging on his chest, broke his posture by attaching his elbow to his foot. He looked like a “Lord” in a popular drama which was set in the late Showa Era, but Gouki was spared from scrutiny for his rough attitude.
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64Masaki sat in front of his father. They didn’t resemble each other well for a parent and child. The Ichijou Family’s son and daughters take after their mother, and that was a widely known fact.
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66Gouki was 42 years old this year, and if he was to be described in one word, it would be “manly”. His whole body was overly tanned, and on his head was short and cropped hair, all acquired due to the long time he spent under intense sunlight. His appearance suited his dignity quite appropriately for his age. In contrast, his body did not appear to age as much, his muscles were firm, albeit not voluminous, but toned and edgy.
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68Despite his harsh features, he left a strong yet tasteful impression.
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70“Well, don’t be so uptight.”
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72That was the first sentence he offered to his son, who was sitting with an upright attitude from the very beginning.
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74“Then, I won’t hold back.”
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76He was dressed up throughout the New Year——with his student uniform——so Masaki followed his father’s recommendation and relaxed his posture. Gouki did not like formal manners, but he still exercised some degree of distinction. Whoever it may be it, as a member of the Ten Master Clans, or as the Ichijou Family Head, any human being must exercise the appropriate behavior. Now, as soon as he asked his son to “not be uptight”, he was acting as Masaki’s father, instead of the Head of the Ichijou Family.
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78“Masaki. It’ll be hard to answer this question honestly to your parent when you’re at this age, but please make your best effort.”
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80“What happened? Is it something serious?”
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82It was unusual for Gouki to give such a prelude. He was usually a cut-to-the-chase, blunt-to-a-fault kind of person. Especially towards his own son. Masaki was naturally mystified.
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84However, Masaki also decided to go along with him, since he was already there.
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86“You really need to answer honestly. Do you know a girl named Shiba Miyuki?”
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88“Wh-why are you asking such a thing!?”
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90Masaki spoke in a panicky voice, which indicated that he had a positive answer to the question given.
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92“Do you, Masaki?”
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94However, Gouki wanted a clearly worded answer, so he asked Masaki again straightforwardly.
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96“…I know her.”
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98He still didn’t know what his father was thinking. After being persistently asked, Masaki decided to answer obediently.
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100“When and how did you meet her?”
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102Masaki almost shouted “Why do I need to answer a question like this for my father?”. Although he had it on the tip of his tongue, Masaki held back, realizing the act would be meaningless. His father may have an assertive personality, but he wouldn’t say something like that without reason.
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104“At the Nine Schools Competition, two years ago. I’ve known her since the Opening Ceremony. I got to know her during the Celebration Party when I got to be her dance partner.”
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106“So you had an eye on her first. Since she didn’t reject your offer to dance, at the very least you weren’t disliked by her.”
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108He didn’t have enough information from just that, and his frank guess of the situation made Masaki’s face grow hotter. However, this was still just testing the waters.
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110“Then, do you like Miyuki-jou?”
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112In the following instance, an intense stare emitted from Gouki, and Masaki seemed to skip a heartbeat.
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114“Wha-what are you talking a——!?”
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116“I asked you, are you in love with her?”
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118“Why do you need to ask me such a question!?”
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120His tongue was tied due to his agitation, so Masaki’s speech didn’t come out well and was similar to a scream. This time, he was unable to suppress his feelings.
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122“Approximately 30 minutes ago, I received a message from the Yotsuba via the Magic Association.”
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124Gouki answered his son’s question with a grave tone. He would never, ever, tease his son about love, and neither would he ridicule him.
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126“From the Yotsuba?”
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128He immediately told Masaki about it. The word “Yotsuba” which came out of Gouki’s mouth made Masaki disrupt his cool consciously.
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130“What business does the Yotsuba have with the Ichijou?”
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132“It’s not only between the Family Heads. The Yotsuba Family announced to the Ten Master Clans, the 18 Assistant Houses, as well as the Hundred Families. It is some sort of a greeting towards the major houses of Japan’s Magic Community.”
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134“Greeting? How amusing, for that unfriendly Yotsuba Family to do such a thing… What exactly is happening that would make them send such a greeting?”
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136Masaki and Gouki stared into each other’s eyes for a while. Masaki made sure that there were no lies in the information that his father was about to deliver, and he confirmed that Gouki was prepared to tell Masaki the truth.
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138“The Yotsuba Family has named their next Family Head. She is a First High sophomore student, Shiba Miyuki.”
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140“Shiba-san is, from the Yotsuba, the next Head…?”
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142Despite keeping his polite tone, Masaki was deeply shaken. The fact that Miyuki was a Member of the Yotsuba Family, on top of the fact she was of a close lineage that would be appointed as the next Family Head. A fact that he’d never dreamt to hear rocked Masaki’s heart hard.
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144Gouki kept his strong gaze upon Masaki while continuing to retell the story upon Masaki’s drifting consciousness.
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146Soon after, a bigger bomb was dropped on Masaki.
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148“Masaki, the Yotsuba named Shiba Miyuki as the next Family Head. Additionally, it was announced that Shiba Miyuki is engaged to her cousin, Shiba Tatsuya.”
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150“Shiba-san is engaged…?”
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152Masaki was stunned in surprise. However, he only needed a short time to realize the details of the fact.
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154“Cousin, you said? Shiba-san and Shiba Tatsuya are supposed to be siblings!”
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156Gouki nodded lightly to his son’s words.
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158“I have also confirmed about that fact. Certainly, they were supposed to be siblings up to now. However, the truth seems to point out that they are cousins.”
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160“Seems?”
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162Despite his overflowing upsetness, his father’s words were still a problem. He recognized an unnatural part.
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164“Shiba Tatsuya is Yotsuba Maya’s son who was born via artificial insemination from her egg. Please read carefully, his family registry data was modified at the end of last year.”
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166Gouki was also displeased about this fact.
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168“Certainly, it is a plausible tale. At the very least, there is no evidence that Yotsuba-dono did not tell a lie. However, there is no evidence that what Yotsuba-dono said is the truth either.”
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170“Dad, do you think… that the Yotsuba are lying?”
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172Masaki’s voice came out sounding like he was almost sniveling.
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174“That’s not the main problem right now.”
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176However, Gouki shook off his son’s accusation.
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178“Whether they are siblings or cousins, it’s still no good for close relatives to marry each other. The genes of Magicians in this country are at stake. Marriage between close relatives might compromise their genes, so it must be avoided. It’s a natural responsibility of the Ten Master Clans towards the nation.”
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180Masaki changed his legs’ positioning, and broke his posture unconsciously.
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182“This was a one-sided decision by the Yotsuba Family. Even so, they can’t ignore that the possibility exists. That’s why I asked you. Masaki, do you like Shiba Miyuki-jou? Are you in love with her?”
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184Gouki stared hard at Masaki. He has strong eyes, which might even stay open without blinking even in the midst of a raging ocean. However, Masaki had no reason to be afraid of them.
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186“Yeah. I’m in love with Shiba-san. It was love at first sight.”
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188Masaki had no reason to feel guilty about his feelings.
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190“I see.”
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192Gouki nodded in satisfaction after eliciting a confession from his son.
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194“Then, as a parent, I should assist with realizing your feelings. Oh, don’t worry. The Ichijou Family can still be inherited by Akane. You are free to go as the son-in-law without refrain.”
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196“Dad?”
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198Masaki was confident that his love for Miyuki was earnest. He was convinced his feelings were real.
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200“First of all, we must force the current engagement to stop. To do so, shall we express the wish from our side now?”
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202“Wait a minute, Dad!”
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204However, for his parent to convey his feelings before he had any chance to say it by himself simply felt wrong to Masaki.
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206“There’s no time to wait. The other party has announced to the world that they have been engaged.”
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208However, after seeing the “don’t be a loser” look in his father’s eyes, Masaki was unable to say anything to his father’s unreasonable argument.
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214January 3rd. The previous day, the Yotsuba Family sent an engagement announcement to the main Magic Families of Japan, and the Ichijou Family made an objection via the Magic Association.
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216Yet, the one who felt the most intrigued was not the Yotsuba Family, but rather the Head of Saegusa Family, Saegusa Kouichi.
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218Ichijou Gouki sent a written rejection to the Magic Association as displayed on the electronic paper, and Kouichi read it with a thin smile.
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220(You’re bold as usual…)
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222Kouichi and Gouki have been old friends since they were young.
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224Although they didn’t have a very close relationship, they didn’t particularly hate each other, either. Since they have completely different personalities from the other, it was natural for them to be distant. They were more suited to be called acquaintances.
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226Furthermore, the age gap between them was adding to the reason that the relationship between them didn’t turn hostile. Kouichi was six years older than Gouki. When they first met, Kouichi was a university student while Gouki was still a middle school student. Perhaps, that was the reason why Kouichi couldn’t shake off the image that Gouki was “a time consuming naughty little brother”, and did not feel any hostility towards him. Even with this objection, Kouichi felt like saying “You’re doing another reckless thing again”.
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228(One wrong step and the Ichijou Family will be exposed to crossfire criticisms.)
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230The Ten Master Clans was set to be of equal allies to each other, and not in any position that could interfere with the internal situations of the other families. There is likely to be damage to valuable genes due to close-relative marriages, so regardless of the justification, it was not allowed to deny the engagement of other families.
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232However, if the situation affected himself, then it was a different story altogether.
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234This time, the ones who opposed this engagement of the Yotsuba’s next Family Head was not just the Family Head of the Ichijou Family.
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236Together with his opposition of the engagement between cousins who have monozygotic twin mothers, he also proposed to engage the eldest son of the Ichijou Family, Ichijou Masaki, to the Yotsuba’s next Family Head, Shiba Miyuki.
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238Proposing an engagement to a party who had already decided on a fiancé would normally be seen as a hint towards illicit love. However, in this case, the main underlying reason was to avoid the risk of impairing the genes of excellent Magicians.
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240The fact that the Ichijou Family was interfering with the Yotsuba Family’s next Family Head due to Gouki’s support of his son’s love was unknown to Kouichi. It would impossible for Kouichi to come out with such a gamble for the love of his children, but the Gouki he knew of from the past would be able to do so.
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242(However, it doesn’t really matter with this kind of timing.)
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244The fact that Shiba Miyuki was going to be named as the next Head of the Yotsuba Family, and that Shiba Tatsuya would be chosen as her fiancé were already deduced by Kouichi.
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246Despite being a freshman, Shiba Miyuki had mastered high-end magics like “Inferno” and “Niflheim”, and she also exercised an unknown deadly magic during the Yokohama Disturbance. The range of that magic and the effect of which were unknown as an interpersonal magic, but its power was comparable to the “Meteor Shower” from what the Saegusa Family Researchers have predicted.
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248Then, Shiba Tatsuya, who holds the strongest counter-magic and unidentified Decomposition Magic as well as a miraculous kind of magic. Kouichi also received a report that Tatsuya was likely to be the Strategic-Class Magician who caused the “Scorched Halloween” incident. Moreover, he was closely related with the JSDF 101st Battalion, which was said to be the world’s first Flight Combat Independent Magic Battalion.
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250Kouichi also knew beforehand that the two were related to the Yotsuba.
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252Although he didn’t know that Shiba Tatsuya was Maya’s son, he only knew that there was no concrete evidence that Shiba Miyuki was a daughter of Miya. When these two individuals become the center of the Yotsuba Family, the other 27 Houses constituting the Ten Master Clans— 18 Assistant Houses might become useless in terms of suppressing the Yotsuba Family, even as a group. It was not known to Kouichi, but Kudou Retsu had similar fears.
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254Regarding the appointment of Shiba Miyuki as the next Head of the Yotsuba Family and that Shiba Tatsuya was chosen as her fiancé, Kouichi was responding impatiently to this news. He thought that Tatsuya and Miyuki were siblings (although they are siblings), and if one of them were to leave the Yotsuba Family, perhaps it would be Tatsuya. Although it wouldn’t be enough to completely weaken the Yotsuba Family, Kouichi thought that it would keep the domestic power balance of persuasion power over time. ——Of course, it also meant that he would set a trap to get that persuasion power.
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256That was why when Maya announced that Shiba Tatsuya was not Shiba Miyuki’s brother, and that the both of them were engaged, Kouichi was taken aback by his complete miscalculation. It didn’t matter whether they were real siblings or not since he couldn’t extort such a precise inspection of them, since published news is the truth. If they do get married in the future, Shiba Tatsuya would become an unwavering pillar of the Yotsuba, together with Shiba Miyuki. Kouichi was afraid of the time when that reality would be realized.
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258When that happened, there wouldn’t be any more ways of stopping them. The fact that they already sent out an announcement through the Magic Association regarding the formal engagement meant that they could no longer be stopped. Kouichi was chewing bitterly, but——
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260(There is still that method, huh.)
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262Although Gouki’s reaction was rude, it was not reckless. He knew that Gouki had calculated at least that much. Yet, given Gouki’s nature, Kouichi concluded that the greater possibility was that Gouki did it based on his intuition rather than thinking it through.
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264However, there was no doubt it was a valid move.
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266Kouichi immediately called his daughters to the living room.
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272Kouichi was wearing a suit while his daughters gathered wearing glamorous, long-sleeved kimonos. Although they were not wearing the furisode willingly, the three of them nevertheless wore the clothes. It wasn’t due to their parent’s preference either. Such a factor wasn’t nonexistent, but their getups were primarily done to entertain the visitors.
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274While the eldest son of the Saegusa Family had the role of entertaining the guests, the three daughters had the role of guiding guests. On a side note, Mayumi’s mother was estranged with pretext of medical treatment.
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276“Otou-sama, what’s the matter?”
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278Mayumi suddenly asked Kouichi who sat across from her. Although she was dressed up in a furisode every year during this time, she was not so amiable this year despite the kimono that she put on.
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280“I haven’t told you about this, but yesterday I received an announcement from the Magic Association, from the Yotsuba Family to the Ten Master Clans, the 18 Assistant Houses, and the Hundred Families.”
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282“Not only the 28 Houses, but the Hundred Families as well? Was it such an important announcement?”
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284With Kouichi’s suggestive words, Izumi did not show any tense response in contrast to her sister, and showed up as per her father’s order.
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286Looking at Izumi who got quite interested in the topic despite her reluctance to listen to her father’s story, Kouichi nodded with satisfaction. His youngest twin daughters were cute, even Izumi when viewed from an adult’s point of view, and seemed to sweeten Kouichi as well.
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288“It is important. To the Yotsuba Family, and to you all as well.”
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290“To us as well?”
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292Mayumi raised her question with a louder voice. Kouichi paid no heed to her.
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294“The Yotsuba Family’s next Family Head is named to be First High Student, Shiba Miyuki-jou.”
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296“Ehh!?”
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298The one who raised her voice was Mayumi. Izumi, on the other hand, widened her eyes while holding both of her hands tightly. Kasumi remained relatively calm, although she had a hard time believing the news so suddenly.
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300Mayumi, who had the closest relationship with the Shiba siblings in her family, originally had the notion that Tatsuya was from a Family as an “Extra with the Number Four” at best. However, the three of them never imagined in their wildest dreams that Miyuki was a Member of the Yotsuba Family.
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302“Also, it was announced that Shiba Miyuki-jou is engaged to a student from First High, Shiba Tatsuya-kun.”
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304“Huh!?”
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306“It can’t be!”
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308“Even if they’re from the Yotsuba Family, siblings still can’t marry each other, right?”
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310Izumi remained speechless, while Mayumi started to sound like she was screaming, before Kasumi asked her to remain calm.
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312“They are actually cousins.”
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314“Cousins?”
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316Kasumi was not as upset as her sisters due to her calm personality, but she had little fondness for Tatsuya and Miyuki. Kouichi, who understood his daughters’ temperaments, was able to understand this.
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318Kouichi also knew that Izumi is attracted to Miyuki’s beauty.
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320That was why the point of Kouichi’s interest was Mayumi’s violent upsetness.
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322“Shiba Miyuki-jou’s mother is Yotsuba Miya-san. Shiba Tatsuya-kun is the son of the current Family Head, of Yotsuba Maya-san who was born from a frozen egg cell of hers.”
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324“Tatsuya-kun is… the son of the Yotsuba Family’s Head?”
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326Kasumi decided to focus her sight downward rather than to watch her sister stunned. The twin sisters seemed to have decided to leave them alone for the mean time since they had nothing to say as well.
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328“On the contrary,”
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330However, the sharp tone in Kouichi’s voice continued, and Kasumi was aware of the voice of her father.
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332“The Ichijou Family’s Head, Ichijou Gouki-dono, has challenged the engagement of the two from the Yotsuba Family through the Magic Association.”
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334“The Ichijou Family has?”
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336Mayumi made a confused face after listening to her father.
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338“That’s right. He didn’t only go against the engagement, but he also proposed the engagement between his eldest son, Masaki-kun, and Miyuki-jou to Maya-dono.”
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340“Is that so?”
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342Mayumi seemed to have overcome her upsetness. She tried to mull over some behind-the-scene speculation of the engagement of the eldest son of the Ichijou Family and the Yotsuba Family’s next Family Head.
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344“Mayumi, has some idea come to mind?”
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346There was no evidence seen that Mayumi was shocked to the unexpected “new facts” about Tatsuya and Miyuki anymore. Her speed of regaining her composure was evaluated as an advantage for Kouichi.
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348Rather than taking an interest in what Mayumi knew, Kouichi asked the question to get her comments on the matter, as he wanted to know what she was thinking since she was able to regain her composure in such a short amount of time.
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350“No, it’s nothing important. I was simply reminded that Ichijou Masaki-kun has a strong favor towards Miyuki-san.”
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352“I see. Mayumi, I wonder, when did you notice that?”
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354“The Nine Schools Competition from two years ago, during the after party. I am pretty sure I’m not the only one who has noticed this.”
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356However, unexpectedly, the content of what she said was helpful for Kouichi. Apparently, the motive of the Ichijou Family Head seems to be helping the romance of his son.
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358“I see. Hence, rather than acting from the political arena, he chose to consider his son’s feelings.”
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360Kouichi couldn’t consider the same thing as Gouki. He would never take any action that would disadvantage the Saegusa Family for the sake of his daughter’s love. However, he understood the principle behind Gouki’s actions well, more than his daughters.
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362“By the way, how do you see Shiba Tatsuya-kun? Mayumi, what do you think about him?”
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364Being questioned by Kouichi, Mayumi’s eyes began to show a hint of anxiety.
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366“Even if you ask me… I think he’s an excellent junior.”
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368Kouichi did not miss the fact that his daughter was slightly blushing when Mayumi tried to answer him blandly.
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370“How about you, Kasumi?”
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372“I have very little contact with Shiba-senpai so my knowledge is only on the surface. I only know that he is someone who excels greatly in Magic Engineering.”
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374Kasumi said so in a vague manner, before she turned her eyes to Izumi.
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376“I think Izumi knows better than I, since she’s working with him in the Student Council.”
377
378“I see.”
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380Kouichi moved his eyes towards Izumi.
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382“Izumi, what do you think of Shiba Tatsuya-kun?”
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384Izumi changed her hollow eyes instantly when her name was called. She understood what the question was about, so she was not pretending to answer seriously, but had a naturally firm countenance.
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386“…I think Shiba-senpai… is someone who can’t be measured by normal standards.”
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388“Really.”
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390The one who showed a hint of surprise was not only Kouichi. Kasumi revealed her surprised look to Izumi, while Mayumi turned her body to Izumi with rounded eyes.
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392Without flinching from the attention she brought on herself, Izumi continued her words and returned a straight gaze to Kouichi’s face.
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394“I believe you remember that the First High conducted a Stellar Furnace experiment last April.”
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396“Ah, if I remember correctly, Shiba Tatsuya-kun was the one who had the initiative to do so.”
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398It was an event which overturned Kouichi’s plan to damage the Yotsuba’s reputation in the public’s eyes. He wouldn’t easily forget it.
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400“At the last Nine Schools Competition, Shiba-senpai contributed greatly as a member of the Technical Staff. Even during the previous year’s Nine Schools Competition, Shiba-senpai also introduced Flight Magic which had just been published just before the Nine Schools Competition had started for the Mirage Bat event.
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402Kouichi also knew about this, but he directed his sight to Mayumi for confirmation.
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404“It’s true. He did implement the Flight Magic to the specified CAD. He also developed a new magic which has been recorded in the Magic Index.”
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406“This year, he was selected to improve high level magics such as Invisible Bullet and Phonon Maser.”
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408Mayumi further added to Izumi’s testimonies.
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410“That’s something else.”
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412What his daughter said were all known to him, yet he looked naturally surprised, as if he was hearing this for the first time.
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414“However, what I find unfathomable about Shiba-senpai, is that on the surface he doesn’t appear to see any of his actions as achievements.”
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416Izumi did not end her comment there.
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418“Shiba-senpai… and us, are seeing a different world… While he lives here, he’s fundamentally living in a different world… Sometimes, I get this kind of feeling.”
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420“Is that because he has a similar special vision like Mayumi?”
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422“…I don’t know. Sorry, Otou-sama, it’s just a vague feeling.”
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424Izumi looked down as she was not able to explain her feelings properly.
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426Kouichi stared at Mayumi.
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428Mayumi also shook her head, hinting that she had no idea.
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430Although Izumi’s impression of Tatsuya had piqued Kouichi’s interest, she missed a fact in her conclusion. Kouichi decided to temporarily shelve his curiosity.
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432“Then, what do you think of him as the opposite sex?”
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434Izumi turned her face up due to the unexpected question, while opening her eyes wide due to the surprise.
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436“He’s not someone that I could lay my hands on! …It’s regrettable, truly regrettable.”
437
438“Izumi, what do you mean?”
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440Suddenly, Izumi’s calm and collected appearance crumbled down, Kouichi looked rather anxious than worried at this sight.
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442“From my point of view, Shiba-senpai seems to be very manipulative… Even if he’s rather suitable for Miyuki-senpai, still…”
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444“Izumi, do you know what you are trying to say? Even for me, this is quite a surprise you know?”
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446It seemed like Kasumi had forgotten that her father was watching her, she involuntarily turned to Izumi with a surprised face.
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448With an uncomfortable face, Kouichi cleared his throat.
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450Kasumi and Izumi shivered as if shocked by electricity, and aligned their downcast heads shyly.
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452“Mayumi, how about you? How do you think of Shiba Tatsuya-kun as a member of the opposite sex?”
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454Kouichi went about without scolding Kasumi and Izumi——who were now, hesitant to continue their comments——then proceeded with Mayumi.
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456“Even if you ask me…”
457
458Even though it was expected that she would be asked this, Mayumi’s eyes wandered around in a panic. However, despite her nervousness, there wasn’t a hint of dislike to be seen.
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460There wasn’t even a tinge of a troubled expression either.
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462“Shiba Tatsuya-kun is two years younger than Mayumi, but that much shouldn’t cause any significant problems. Especially considering his position as the son of the current Head of the Yotsuba Family, the age gap is balanced out.”
463
464“About that, he has a very mature air around him…”
465
466If everything fell in place neatly as Kouichi planned, this might go well.
467
468Aligned with Gouki’s pace, he might be able to destroy Maya’s plan.
469
470“Mayumi, if you have such feelings, you should officially date him.”
471
472Kouichi told her so with respect to his plan,
473
474“I disagree!”
475
476Kasumi raised her objection.
477
478“Kasumi, restrain yourself.”
479
480Not only did she disturb him in an untimely manner, it was also a behavior unsuitable for a high school student. This time, Kouichi reprimanded her instantly.
481
482“…I’m terribly sorry.”
483
484Kasumi was also aware that her attitude was inappropriate. Although she was unhappy, she did not rebel against her father.
485
486“Otou-sama, if Onee-sama has such feelings for Shiba-senpai, I would suggest for her to have a proper relationship with him, but I’m also against this.”
487
488“Izumi. Do you have any reason?”
489
490Kouichi, though serious in dealing with Kasumi, did not intend on immediately reprimanding Izumi but instead wanted her to continue.
491
492Although Izumi’s polite manner of speaking was part of the reason, the main reason was Kouichi doted on Izumi more.
493
494“For a female to actively approach a male who has already formally announced his engagement to the public, if news got out of this, it would be absolutely unacceptable. The Ichijou Family can only do what they’re doing because Ichijou-san is a male. Shiba-senpai is a male so he can just laugh it off if his love gets snatched away, but for Miyuki-senpai, it would very likely hurt her.”
495
496“…Is that so?”
497
498When it came to such unique female sensibilities, even Kouichi could not refute them. In fact, just asking such a thing already pushed him to his limit.
499
500“Yes!”
501
502The one who exclaimed thus was Mayumi.
503
504“To ask a guy who has just announced his engagement, if word got out it, that would be unacceptable. Not to mention I’m older than him. I don’t want to spread rumors that I’m a senpai who tempts her kouhai or that I’m lacking in morals.”
505
506“Is that so.”
507
508Kouichi could only leave things in such a disadvantaged position.
509
510Henceforth, Kouichi never again brought up the issue of the Yotsuba Family announcement of the engagement. From this point out, he had to fully focus on matters concerning Miyuki and Tatsuya since they were now known to be from the Yotsuba Family. Kouichi dismissed his daughters after that.
511
512
513
514
515
516After 8 P.M. in the evening, visitors to the Saegusa household had all but left. There were no more prior engagements to any dinner banquets before tomorrow. Kouichi and his daughters, changed out of their kimonos into normal clothes, and he finished dinner before settling himself in his study.
517
518This did not differ much from his normal routine. Although having dinner with his daughters was a rare sight, retiring back to his study after dinner was a perfectly normal occurrence. After completing the work required of him as a Head of the Ten Master Clans and that of a businessman, as well as reading the reports of clandestine operations, the call that Kouichi had been waiting for finally arrived.
519
520[New Year’s greetings, Saegusa-dono.]
521
522“Happy New Year, Ichijou-dono. Apologies for having you specially make this call.”
523
524Ichijou Gouki was precisely the person Kouichi was waiting for.
525
526[No, I’m the one who made you wait, sorry.]
527
528“I didn’t have to wait long at all.”
529
530It was two hours ago when Kouichi sent his request for Gouki to give him a call when Gouki was free. Hence, to say that he didn’t have too long to wait really was too subtle.
531
532[Then, what you wanted to discuss, is it about the Yotsuba Family?]
533
534Although, in terms of age, Kouichi was older than Gouki by seven years, the one speaking to the other in familiar terms was Gouki. However, there was an unwritten rule when it came to the Heads of the Ten Master Clans owing to their equal standings and it was Kouichi’s attention to formal speech that was inappropriate.
535
536Kouichi was probably the only one from the Ten Master Clans who was such a stickler for those kinds of details.
537
538“Yes, but to be accurate it’s about the request Ichijou-dono made of the Yotsuba Family, specifically about your son.”
539
540While Kouichi said so with a smile, Gouki started frowning.
541
542[Please, don’t pretend as if you know everything, will you?]
543
544As Gouki’s response was within his calculations, Kouichi replied unhurriedly.
545
546“I am considering supporting your son’s pursuit of love.”
547
548Perhaps complaints about Gouki’s highly unreasonable act had already started to show. To move the conversation forward, Kouichi clearly stated his intentions before Gouki got annoyed.
549
550[Is that so. Thanks.]
551
552Gouki thanked Kouichi while trying to guess at his true intentions, causing Gouki to reveal a weird expression.
553
554“I, too, am saddened by the engagement announced by Yotsuba-dono.”
555
556Gouki’s expression changed from one of surprise to agreement.
557
558Compared to feeling sorry for his own son, objecting to the next Head of Yotsuba Family’s engagement was a more palatable excuse.
559
560[Then, I’ll assume Saegusa-dono feels that the marriage between two close relatives that the Yotsuba Family is proposing is too dangerous?]
561
562“Yes, exactly. I also frequently hear of the next Head of the Yotsuba Family, Shiba Miyuki-jou’s outstanding qualities from my daughters.”
563
564This was a lie. Kouichi and his daughters didn’t even hold conversations “frequently”. Intel on Miyuki and Tatsuya had been entirely obtained through private investigations.
565
566If he was honest about it, however, the question of how Kouichi knew about Miyuki and Tatsuya despite the Yotsuba Family covering up the two’s relationship would arise. Whether or not Kouichi had been secretly conducting investigations would also rise into suspicion, so it was more convenient to simply say he had heard it from his daughters.
567
568“It’s impossible to overlook the possibility of her talents not being passed on after all.”
569
570Kouichi’s words were meant to echo Gouki’s intentions. Unexpectedly however, Gouki bit his lips unhappily, which was outside of Kouichi’s calculations.
571
572[——Not only Miyuki-jou, Shiba Tatsuya-kun, too, is a Magician who has achieved victory over my son. Although I might sound like an idiot for saying so, but I think those that win over Masaki are pretty valuable.]
573
574“Yes. It is as you say.”
575
576Kouichi immediately corrected his stance. Though Gouki might think himself stupid just now, winning over Masaki was definitely a huge accomplishment. In actuality, when the Third High team led by Masaki lost to the First High team led by Tatsuya in the 2095 Nine Schools Competition, the shock was so great that the Magic Association almost convened an online meeting via its direct line to discuss their response.
577
578“Shiba Tatsuya-kun’s abilities must be treasured as well.”
579
580Kouichi’s was not merely paying lip service with his immediate agreement with Gouki’s words.
581
582[Then, Saegusa-dono, what do you want to do? Is it to plead with Yotsuba-dono to dissolve their plans for marriage, or to support my son?]
583
584Although Kouichi appeared to support him on the surface, Gouki revealed an unhappy face, obviously suspecting that Kouichi was trying to make use of his son.
585
586That was beyond Kouichi’s calculations, or rather perhaps, it was even within his calculations.
587
588“In truth, I am considering having Shiba Tatsuya-kun become my son-in-law.”
589
590Here, Kouichi had revealed that he was acting humble while bowing down his head.
591
592Gouki couldn’t help but waver for having arrived at the same conclusion as Kouichi.
593
594[…Isn’t your Mayumi-jou currently dating the young son of the Itsuwa Family?]
595
596Gouki probed Kouichi with expression and tone speaking of his inability to hide his surprise.
597
598“Yes, putting aside the lack of progress between Mayumi and Hirofumi, the two do not seem to intend on continuing the relationship, to the extent that they might be going back to square one.”
599
600[If it’s Shiba Tatsuya-kun, are you saying that Mayumi-jou thinks that way too?]
601
602“For Mayumi, Shiba Tatsuya-kun is also a Kouhai, but for her to feel that way should not be a surprise. Mayumi is already twenty now, and as a father, she is approaching the age when I wish she would start making plans for marriage.”
603
604Gouki’s intuition was telling him that Kouichi wanted to make use of the Ichijou Family, but his level of understanding failed to allow himself to understand this. Kouichi’s words contained absolutely nothing to arouse anything suspicious, and it helped that he was approaching Gouki at this point in time.
605
606“I’m embarrassed to say this but I’m still at the stage where I’m negotiating with my daughter, and still not at the stage when I can propose a marriage. Hence, in place of a proposal I’m hoping I could add my name to your voice of dissent.”
607
608Gouki felt that he was slowly slipping into an ingenious trap.
609
610[Then as the Family Head, it’s something I should feel grateful for.]
611
612However, he was now only considering whether to accept Kouichi’s proposal.
613
614[If you could give me a reply as soon as possible, I would be very grateful. As a Family Head, I plan to contact others who also consider Yotsuba-dono’s plan dangerous, what do you think?]
615
616“If such people really exist, please do introduce them to me.”
617
618It wasn’t really a request made of Kouichi, but rather Gouki trying his best to maintain his position as the main party involved. However, in the current state of affairs it was all Gouki could do.
619
620[Oh, of course.]
621
622Kouichi while smiling, nodded. Gouki understood from the start that to see through Kouichi’s real thoughts on the phone was impossible, so he gave up.
623
624[Then, I’ll send you the original document sent to the Magic Association later.]
625
626“In case of any errors I’ll send the co-signed document back to you first, so please do a thorough check.”
627
628[Understood.]
629
630“That’s concluded, then. Ichijou-dono, thank you very much.”
631
632[No, I should be the one feeling thankful. I’ll take my leave now.]
633
634The conversation with Gouki over the phone ended satisfactorily for Kouichi.
635
636
637
638
639
640As Tatsuya and Miyuki brought Minami home, it was already Friday, January 4th.
641
642Those who knew of Tatsuya and company’s relationship with the Yotsuba Family were only limited to those at the top of the magical community. However, it would not take more than a few days for this intelligence to proliferate through the people connected to magic. The existence of the location of their house, too, was only a matter of time.
643
644Hayama had mentioned of preparations being made in Tokyo for a second Yotsuba Family Residence; Tatsuya mused that considerations will have to be made about a possible move to there.
645
646Even if such a move was made, however, Tatsuya anticipated that it would only happen in one to two months’ time. He had to take care of some errands first before that.
647
648If it was the end of the last century, that would mean cleaning up the house, clearing out everything together with everyone. For homes in the modern age where domestic chores have become highly automated, however, it was no problem leaving the cleaning up to automatons. After finishing lunch at home, Tatsuya and Miyuki left for Yakumo’s Temple— Kyuuchouji Temple, leaving Minami behind.
649
650Tatsuya changed into a suit while Miyuki changed into a kimono. Riding Tatsuya’s motorcycle was out of the question; the skates didn’t even need to be mentioned. Fortunately, both Tatsuya’s house as well as Kyuuchouji Temple were within the public transportation grid where driver assistance AI could take them there automatically. Hence they used their private car instead of a public one.
651
652The trip to Kyuuchouji Temple only took around ten minutes. A call made before leaving ensured they didn’t show up with no one not being home.
653
654Nonetheless, Tatsuya who had arrived punctually was instead asked to wait. Yakumo was definitely in the temple. However, an earlier visitor was in fact present. Arriving just before Tatsuya, the individual had suddenly appeared without having made any arrangements beforehand.
655
656Looking like he was a visitor, who Yakumo simply could not turn away.
657
658One of Yakumo’s most talented disciples who was close to Tatsuya apologized to him profusely.
659
660Tatsuya was deciding if he should pay a visit on another day though ultimately was stopped by that disciple, and so the decision was made to wait longer. Tatsuya didn’t have anything important on his schedule today and he was in no mood to work anyway, so with the thought that it was fine, Tatsuya continued waiting.
661
662
663
664
665
666When Tatsuya was finally summoned, it was already 30 minutes since he arrived.
667
668Leaving the lecture hall for the main hall, Tatsuya passed the courtyard when he saw the back of the previous visitor at the main gate.
669
670It was a bald old man. Perhaps he was from the same Buddhist sect, Tatsuya thought, but he immediately dismissed it. Although the bald head suggested the visitor was a monk, what he was wearing however was a high-end suit and coat. Although monks who wore suits probably still exist, the old man was definitely not one, Tatsuya’s intuition told him such. At the very least he wasn’t a monk, and he gave off the impression of being one in a position of authority.
671
672Probably feeling Tatsuya’s stare, the old man turned his head around from the left.
673
674The old man’s left eye, it was cloudy white.
675
676The old man’s movement caused Tatsuya great unease. If the sight of one’s left eye were impaired, one would usually turn his head from the right.
677
678In that eye, contained an extraordinary sight…
679
680The old man immediately returned to his previous position, then he left walking away through the temple gate.
681
682“Onii-sama?”
683
684Hearing Miyuki’s call, Tatsuya instantaneously regained himself. His attention was drawn to that old man by such a degree.
685
686Being unsure of what he was afraid of, Tatsuya shifted his focus.
687
688
689
690
691
692Kneeling in front of Yakumo, Tatsuya did not inquire as to the old man’s identity.
693
694“Sensei, we’ve visited at such a late hour. Happy New Year.”
695
696Tatsuya was at the moment considering if he should investigate his other visitor. Though he had no reason to think so, asking would probably yield no answers.
697
698Miyuki formally bowed, in harmony with Tatsuya.
699
700“Congratulations. I already understand the situation so let’s not care too much about that.”
701
702Receiving Yakumo’s answer, the pair of siblings raised their heads together.
703
704“To already know, as expected of you.”
705
706To Miyuki’s admiring look filled with respect, Yakumo smiled while shaking his head.
707
708“No, no. This is nothing worthy of admiration. Because news of Miyuki-kun being made the next Head and the marriage between you two is spreading fairly quickly.”
709
710“…Do so many people already know?”
711
712To the vexed Tatsuya who asked so, Yakumo melodramatically widened his eyes in surprise in an act.
713
714“Of course. For people related to magic, this is big news. Plus, it’s intelligence related to the Yotsuba Family that’s surrounded by mystery and doubts, receiving attention is expected. In addition to that, it’s almost time for the Ten Master Clans Conference. Especially since this year’s the quadrennial Ten Master Clans Selection Conference? Events that happen just before it would be impossible to keep a lid on.”
715
716Tatsuya furrowed his brows while Miyuki appeared distressed. Although the notice was limited to the 28 Houses and the Hundred Families, news would rapidly spread once the Magic Association made the announcement. This news was originally meant to let third parties know of Tatsuya and Miyuki’s existence. To let the majority of those related to magic remember this was another intention of the Yotsuba Family.
717
718That was at most only Maya’s plan, though. Tatsuya did not wish for things to be done this way. Putting aside the rumors on the street, how First High’s students would react during the new semester, was more than enough to depress the two.
719
720“Speaking of which… To think that you two were not siblings but cousins, and engaged to each other.”
721
722Yakumo laughed nastily.
723
724“Even I was completely cheated. Congratulations.”
725
726Hearing Yakumo’s congratulations, Miyuki blushed while shifting her line of sight.
727
728However, Miyuki’s expression froze at Yakumo’s next sentence.
729
730“Well, where does the truth end?”
731
732“We heard that it is all true.”
733
734As Yakumo revealed a smile filled with interest on one side, Tatsuya, immediately turning expressionless, replied without confidence.
735
736“Hmm, so you heard, huh.”
737
738“Since I have no memories on this matter, I can only learn from others.”
739
740“Is that so, is that so. Even if it’s Tatsuya-kun, you wouldn’t remember what happened immediately after you were born. Not to mention things that happened before that, you will only be able to know of them by hearing from others. You have a point.”
741
742Yakumo smiled while glaring coldly at Tatsuya.
743
744Tatsuya, as if saying “It’s just as you’ve said”, lowered his head silently.
745
746
747
748
749
750After this, only small talk took place and after about 20 minutes had passed Tatsuya and Miyuki stood up.
751
752Yakumo as if naturally, stood up as well, following behind the siblings.
753
754Under such circumstances, regardless of any misgivings they might have had, Tatsuya and Miyuki understood that it was meaningless to Yakumo.
755
756The two, thus sandwiched between the disciple tasked with leading the way and Yakumo, proceeded towards the gate heading to the parking lot.
757
758At the gate, Miyuki and Tatsuya stood properly once more, preparing to say their greetings once more.
759
760However, the one faster to speak was Yakumo.
761
762“Tatsuya-kun. Tomorrow, I will give you a more rigorous training, you would better prepare yourself mentally.”
763
764Tatsuya, unprepared, widened his eyes. Yakumo’s words just now implied that Tatsuya need not mind this matter and should come here to train as before. Yakumo meant this, despite Tatsuya’s identity as being someone from the Yotsuba Family going public, getting along like how they used to, is just fine.
765
766“Please take care of me this year as well, Sensei.”
767
768Although Tatsuya did not reveal any indication that he was moved,
769
770“Sensei, thank you.”
771
772Though in Miyuki’s eyes, tears welled up.
773
774
775
776
777
778On the day after Tatsuya paid his visit to Kyuuchouji Temple, he left Miyuki at home to head to the JSDF 101 Brigade Base situated in Tsuchiura, Ibaraki to pay a visit.
779
780The destination was the Independent Magic-Equipped Battalion Headquarters. It was not for training but rather to greet Kazama.
781
782Although Tatsuya was in a normal suit, the ID card he held was no less different than that held by a regular soldier. He only needed to pass through a card scanner and a bio-scanner before Tatsuya easily passed through the gate, after which he walked towards the building that the Independent Magic-Equipped Battalion was in. Tatsuya initially planned to go straight to where Kazama was, but in the sturdy plaza spanning three floors both above and below ground, he saw a familiar figure, so he walked towards it.
783
784“Happy New Year, Special Lieutenant Ooguro.”
785
786“Happy New Year and congratulations, First Lieutenant Fujibayashi.”
787
788As they saluted one another, Tatsuya and Fujibayashi exchanged New Year’s greetings. Tatsuya, though, appended his congratulations not only for the New Year’s well wishes.
789
790“Thank you, Special Lieutenant. The increase in salary at this point really sincerely makes me happy.”
791
792Fujibayashi replied in a joking manner. Tatsuya felt that her words contained some complex undercurrents, but did not point them out right then.
793
794“I also wish to give my New Year’s greetings to the Lieutenant Colonel.”
795
796“Of course, the Commander is waiting for us as well. Let’s go.”
797
798Fujibayashi gave a bright smile before turning around.
799
800Tatsuya followed behind her.
801
802
803
804
805
806“It’s Fujibayashi.”
807
808“Come in.”
809
810Kazama gave his permission to enter the room, in response to Fujibayashi’s knock on his door. There was only one person in the Commander’s Office.
811
812“Excuse me. I brought Special Lieutenant Ooguro along.”
813
814“The two of you, stand there and wait a moment.”
815
816As he was speaking, Kazama operated the end of the desk. At the wall near the entrance, a part came down to the height of his hand, and stopped as it became parallel to the ground to form the seat of a chair.
817
818Tatsuya and Fujibayashi sat down on the chairs that were prepared.
819
820There were cushions placed on the seats, so it didn’t feel uncomfortable sitting on them.
821
822Kazama continued repeating movements using his stylus on the monitor reclined at a 15-degree angle, as if signing documents, before raising his head.
823
824Fujibayashi and Tatsuya stood up together in front of the table where the monitor was stowed away. Tatsuya moved forward half a step before saluting Kazama.
825
826“Commander, New Year’s greetings to you. Also, congratulations on your promotion this time.”
827
828“Well. Special Lieutenant, I’m looking forward to your being active this year as well.”
829
830“Yes. Thank you very much.”
831
832Kazama loosened his expression, then stood up.
833
834Behind Tatsuya and Fujibayashi’s backs, appeared a sofa that came up from underneath the floor.
835
836“Well, sit down.”
837
838While saying this, Kazama sat down on a simple inflatable sofa. Tatsuya then sat down on the sofa by the door as well.
839
840The ceiling descended between the two, forming a suspended coffee table. A teapot, teacups and saucers had already been prepared on the table.
841
842Fujibayashi, still standing, picked up a kettle, filled the teapot up with hot water, then poured the tea into the teacups after a while. She then placed the two teacups, on saucers, and teapot in front of Kazama and Tatsuya. Smiling in response to Tatsuya who thanked her, Fujibayashi started moving to the left of Kazama.
843
844“Although I don’t think you have any matters which you specifically need help with, you didn’t come here today just for New Year’s greetings did you?”
845
846Kazama asked Tatsuya as he picked up the teacup. Although the cup was not filled with boiling hot water, the teacup made of thin celadon should still have been pretty hot, Kazama however did not reveal any reaction to it.
847
848“I heard the Commander received a promotion, so of course I can’t pretend I didn’t know about it.”
849
850In response to Kazama’s direct question, Tatsuya answered while smiling. Although it was just to be civil, the smile was not accompanied by any emotions. Instead of a sincere expression, a smile was chosen instead.
851
852“Although it’s called a promotion.”
853
854Kazama responded to Tatsuya’s faked smile with a smile of his own.
855
856However, Kazama’s was a forced smile.
857
858“My salary hardly increased and compared to my contemporaries, I’m already one of the last. Well, even though I feel better that I was promoted, it’s a good thing that situations where my subordinates will be put under pressure will disappear.”
859
860Just as Kazama had said, in the official routine orders sent out on January 1st, the promotion list wasn’t limited to just Kazama. As Tatsuya pointed out, Fujibayashi was promoted from a Second Lieutenant to a First Lieutenant, Sanada and Yanagi were both promoted from Captains to Majors, their military ranks increased.
861
862When Kazama was younger, in carrying out some of his missions, he once displeased the Central higher-ups, causing his records and deeds, strength, reputation and position to be suppressed, inconsistent with his accolades. After becoming the Commanding Officer of the Independent Magic-Equipped Battalion, it was thanks to the efforts of the Brigade Commander-Major General Saeki that he finally became a Field Officer, but the Bureaucrats in charge of Military Affairs and Politics did not plan on allowing Kazama to get promoted again.
863
864However, the results achieved in the Yokohama Incident was not something that the Ministry of Defense could overlook. Instead, reasoning that the Independent Magic-Equipped Battalion was a secret unit, the excuse that immediate promotions would expose them as the operatives of the Battalion was given. Thus the promotion that should have been decided in January and July of the previous year was delayed, but they could not keep ignoring the protests of those who had achieved victory and had not been given what they deserved. Hence, they could only send out the routine orders that Kazama was among the ones being promoted.
865
866He was accompanied by Sanada, Yanagi and Fujibayashi, the three of whom received similarly delayed promotions by one rank.
867
868“A raise in rank shouldn’t be a bad thing. Even if it’s just a little, if there’s an increase in income, nothing beats it.”
869
870“You have a point. Speaking of the matter on the Special Lieutenant’s income, my feelings are a little complex.”
871
872“The difference in my income isn’t that great. Since CADs are a product of the budding Magic Engineering sector, its market remains very small.”
873
874Tatsuya and Kazama both smiled at the same time. After which they simultaneously tightened their expressions.
875
876“Lieutenant Colonel, how are the anti-spy measures?”
877
878“They are complete.”
879
880In response to Tatsuya’s question, Kazama nodded while answering.
881
882Tatsuya took in a small breath of air.
883
884“Lieutenant Colonel, has the structure of the Independent Magic-Equipped Battalion changed?”
885
886“There are no changes this time. Because our Independent Magic-Equipped Battalion is positioned as a secret unit, the Major General feels that it’s not a problem even if the ranks and the job scopes don’t match up.”
887
888“Understood.”
889
890Tatsuya was deployed with the Independent Magic-Equipped Battalion as a Special Forces Soldier and his identity was closely related, in a personal way, with Kazama or Sanada. If the head changed, then considerations had to be made if he would be affected as well.
891
892Those words just now were not just polite remarks, rather they were instead sincere in respect to the interests of the Yotsuba Family. If he must be placed under the command of someone who couldn’t be trusted, he would have to re-examine if he should cut ties with the military. This time however, it looked like this worry was unwarranted.
893
894“Tatsuya, we can be just like how we were before, so do you think we can receive your support?”
895
896This time, Kazama questioned Tatsuya with a nervous expression.
897
898“Yes.”
899
900Tatsuya lightly nodded his head, indicating assent.
901
902“Weren’t you entrusted with a new identity by the Yotsuba Family?”
903
904“That does not conflict with the interests of the Independent Magic-Equipped Battalion.”
905
906Tatsuya replied not with “the JSDF” but with “the Independent Magic-Equipped Battalion” in response to Kazama’s question, after he consciously thought about it.
907
908“At least, for now.”
909
910The meaning of then adding “for now”, Kazama clearly understood.
911
912“Is that so.”
913
914In this way, Kazama quickly accepted it.
915
916“We predict that in the coming months, the international situation will start to escalate rapidly, including within Japan. Even if it doesn’t reach the scale of another World War, the possibility of mid-level military conflicts happening in the near future, specifically within a year, in the East Asia region is significant.”
917
918“Are we referring to the Army Staff’s views? Or the General Staff’s views?”
919
920Leading up to World War III which lasted for 20 years, the JSDF as an organization changed on a massive scale. The Ministry of Defense was shuffled into the consolidated Joint Staff, which now included the General Headquarters of the Defense Army, Defense Navy and Defense Air Force. The Joint Staff became affiliated with the Joint Staff Office and reports directly to the Chairman of the Joint Staff, that now, at the same time, assumed the position of Director of the Joint Staff Office.
921
922The function of the Joint Staff Office was to convene during emergencies to act as the JSDF’s highest decision-making body.
923
924For example, during last year’s Yokohama Incident, within two hours of the start of the invasion, the Joint Staff Office convened and subsequently decided for the authorization and use of “Material Burst”.
925
926Within the current system, under the Army, Navy and Air Force, each had set up their own respective General Headquarters responsible for managing intelligence, combat and deployment. Their difference from the consolidated Staff Office was that they were only responsible for analyzing military intelligence as well as providing suggestions.
927
928Tatsuya’s question was asking about which level of analysis Kazama’s earlier statements had passed.
929
930“No, it’s Excellency Saeki’s analysis.”
931
932Kazama’s answer was not one Tatsuya expected. Looks like it was, at most, the 101st Battalion’s informal internal analysis. However, Tatsuya’s trust in the prediction of military conflicts instead soared.
933
934It came from an excellent and experienced expert without considerations of politicians’ judgment, without considerations for popular opinion or political bias. It could be said that it was the result of pure analysis.
935
936Although Tatsuya did not at all want the prediction to be realized, he didn’t have the confidence to optimistically pronounce it as baseless.
937
938“Although the Ten Master Clans is an organization for the protection of Magician’s rights, they will not shy away from the duty of National Defense. Based on this, the Yotsuba Family and the JSDF share the same interests.”
939
940“I won’t involve you with matters unrelated to National Defense, meaning I won’t impose upon you any obligations. Tatsuya, I’m looking forward to working with you this year.”
941
942With the same phrase that started it, Kazama ended the conversation with Tatsuya.
943
944
945
946
947
948After greeting Kazama, Tatsuya had originally planned to greet Sanada, Yanagi and Yamanaka. However Yamanaka was not in the base at the moment, while Sanada and Yanagi were currently occupied. In a dilemma as to whether he should wait somewhere or go straight home, Tatsuya was invited to the officer café by Fujibayashi, who helped ascertain the three’s status, instead.
949
950The time now was 10:50 A.M. Although it was still too early to be having lunch, it was just right to have a cup of coffee. Especially since it was still the New Year period, the Brigade as a whole had not started training in earnest, causing the use of the café by officers making it crowded and rather lively.
951
952Although it was the New Year period, the personnel were still on duty, and the officers were all in uniforms. Fujibayashi, too, was wearing the female logistics personnel uniform. Conversely, Tatsuya was wearing a three-piece suit. If he had been holding his coat in one hand he might not have been feeling so indisposed, but in the present situation, he was subtly conspicuous in the café.
953
954Fujibayashi looked on in interest at Tatsuya who was taking his discomfort calmly.
955
956“…So Tatsuya-kun you can be shy like this too.”
957
958Since Tatsuya was trying to preserve his dignity, he didn’t say it aloud but looked at Fujibayashi helplessly.
959
960“I don’t really like attracting people’s attention.”
961
962Hearing Tatsuya’s reply, Fujibayashi almost burst into laughter.
963
964“Then, this time could be said to be a catastrophe for you.”
965
966“There is nothing to be done about it. Especially since the choice to refuse doesn’t exist.”
967
968Fujibayashi, as if attempting to probe Tatsuya’s innermost feelings, gazed at Tatsuya.
969
970“Is this about the marriage?”
971
972“Of course.”
973
974“Do you hate it?”
975
976“It’s only that there is no other way. Being ordered to get engaged to someone who has always been your sister, my brain can’t switch tracks so quickly. Especially understanding that Miyuki must have a fiancé, makes it harder to resist…”
977
978Tatsuya’s reply was merely a polite remark. It wasn’t because he was required to be the fiancé but probably rather because he absolutely could not let go of Miyuki.
979
980If anybody who knew the sibling’s feelings for each other could think of it, it wasn’t difficult for Fujibayashi to see through Tatsuya. However, out of Fujibayashi’s mouth didn’t come words of teasing Tatsuya.
981
982“A fiancé is necessary, huh…”
983
984Tatsuya looked at Fujibayashi, surprised.
985
986However, he didn’t ask about it. Because considering Fujibayashi’s age, it was easy to infer that her relatives must have demanded she get married.
987
988“…Recently, it’s been irritating. Speaking of which, I’ve been told I should be getting married too.”
989
990Although Tatsuya wanted to avoid the topic at hand, it was instead brought up by Fujibayashi.
991
992“Even though I also know that I’m already at this age…”
993
994Considering the modern trend of Magicians being required to marry early, it wasn’t difficult to imagine that Fujibayashi was under enormous pressure from her family. It was because of this that Tatsuya didn’t say anything to Fujibayashi.
995
996Precisely because of knowing Fujibayashi’s reasons for not wanting to marry, it was even harder to say heartless things.
997
998“I know. It’s about time to properly straighten out my state of mind. If I keep being stuck on that person, he probably won’t be happy either.”
999
1000Today, unexpectedly, Fujibayashi stepped on a landmine even Tatsuya wanted to avoid. Compared to the other Officers’ curious eyes, listening to Fujibayashi’s words now, instead, made Tatsuya even more uncomfortable.
1001
1002In the Defense Battle in Okinawa in the year 2092, Fujibayashi lost her soon-to-be-married fiancé. Even though it was one arranged by their parents, she was still never able to forget him.
1003
1004Her fiancé was new. He was killed-in-action in his first deployment.
1005
1006Fujibayashi, who was previously a researcher, also became a uniformed military personnel because of the death of her fiancé. She didn’t hate the military for losing him, but perhaps because in his place, she wanted to fulfil his dreams. Tatsuya had not heard the details to this degree.
1007
1008What Tatsuya understood was that Fujibayashi was unable to forget her fiancé who was killed-in-action, and the people surrounding her could not forgive that.
1009
1010“Ah, sorry! I really… To make you listen to my complaining, it would only annoy you Tatsuya-kun.”
1011
1012Sensing Tatsuya’s difficult position, Fujibayashi was embarrassed and hurriedly apologized.
1013
1014“No… I think your family is only worried about you.”
1015
1016To the Fujibayashi of now, Tatsuya could only say something to this degree.
1017
1018
1019
1020
1021
1022Just as Yakumo had said, rumors of Tatsuya and company had speedily spread among the Magicians.
1023
1024“Shizuku, that, is it true!?”
1025
1026“…There’s no mistake.”
1027
1028Moving her line of sight away from the Honoka who was standing on the other side of the table, Shizuku replied with difficulty.
1029
1030“Miyuki is the next Head of the Yotsuba Family!?”
1031
1032“Yeah.”
1033
1034As if losing her strength, Honoka lightly sat back down.
1035
1036In front of the two were bite-sized cakes and red tea.
1037
1038Today was Sunday, January 6th. Shizuku and Honoka were in the Kitayama household’s dining room enjoying desert time after the meal.
1039
1040——Although the atmosphere was turning anything but “enjoyable”.
1041
1042With Honoka, who rarely came over to play (to be precise, it was Shizuku who invited her), talking about this topic made Shizuku herself uncomfortable, but compared to telling her suddenly after meeting her again in the future, she felt it was better to tell her right from the start.
1043
1044As Shizuku had thought, Honoka did indeed suffer a serious blow, and she was now sitting in the chair, in a listless state.
1045
1046“Miyuki is… So it’s like this…”
1047
1048However, the listlessness persisted for a surprisingly short time. Honoka muttered, as if accepting it, then resolutely looked at Shizuku.
1049
1050“Although it gave me a fright, I can accept this. If it’s the Ten Master Clans and even one of the Yotsuba Family, it feels like having that kind of ability and power is understandable.”
1051
1052Although Honoka’s expression was tinged with loneliness, she looked at Shizuku with an understanding expression.
1053
1054“Well, from who did you hear that from? Auntie? Or from Uncle?”
1055
1056“The Yotsuba Family contacted the Heads of the Main Members of the Hundred Families through the Magic Association. It was one of my Mom’s contacts from the old days that told her.”
1057
1058“Ah, if Papa were home he might have told me.”
1059
1060Honoka’s dad was a subordinate of a strong member of the Hundred Families. Because the news was not specially designated a secret, the possibility that the source of the rumors came from the workplace wasn’t low.
1061
1062Initially, Shizuku was feeling slightly lucky at the fact that Honoka’s dad was not home. Honoka’s dad did not know about her being in love. Just bringing up anything related to Tatsuya and Miyuki to her dad might have caused him to warn her to stay away from the two.
1063
1064“Honoka.”
1065
1066“Yeah, what is it?”
1067
1068However, for Shizuku, it was not easy to properly handle this matter.
1069
1070Especially knowing she wasn’t good with words, the trouble of exactly how she should tell her started growing heavier.
1071
1072(But… I really must tell her.)
1073
1074Honoka might cry. No, she will definitely cry. At that time, the only one able to let her cry out honestly was herself, and Shizuku’s sense of duty began to well up.
1075
1076If she didn’t do so, it would feel like running away from the topic.
1077
1078“Actually, there was a follow-up to what I heard from Mom.”
1079
1080“Follow-up? Exactly what is it?”
1081
1082Shizuku took a small breath,
1083
1084“It’s that Miyuki and Tatsuya-san are not actually siblings but rather cousins. Also, it looks like even Miyuki and Tatsuya-san did not know this. Following that, Tatsuya-san has also been chosen to be Miyuki’s fiancé.”
1085
1086Finished in one breath.
1087
1088“It cannot be…”
1089
1090Honoka’s face tried to remain strong, then immediately broke into a smile.
1091
1092“Rea-aaa-lly, Shizuku. Just stop with this type of cruel joke. April Fools is still three months away.”
1093
1094Honoka waited for Shizuku to smile as well. Waiting, for Shizuku to reply with something like “I’ve been found out” with an expression without malice.
1095
1096However, Shizuku only looked into Honoka’s eyes with a calm expression.
1097
1098“Hey, Shizuku. Stop joking.”
1099
1100Fear appeared in Honoka’s eyes. Even so, maintaining a smile, she implored Shizuku with a half-joking tone to tell her that this was a joke.
1101
1102“Honoka.”
1103
1104However, Shizuku’s tone wasn’t what Honoka was waiting for, but was a sincere tone.
1105
1106“…It’s true?”
1107
1108Honoka asked, while shaking.
1109
1110“…Yeah.”
1111
1112Shizuku affirmed painfully.
1113
1114“How could…!”
1115
1116Honoka stood up, wanting to run out of the dining room.
1117
1118“Honoka!”
1119
1120While her back, was tightly hugged by Shizuku.
1121
1122“Let go of me!”
1123
1124Honoka struggled with slightly rough actions. She was not in fact conscious of who it was that hugged her. More importantly, even where she herself wanted to go, no, what she wanted to do, she did not know.
1125
1126However, a type of survival instinct to escape from what she feared made her want to run with all her might, away from the darkness.
1127
1128With the hands pushing away, their strength was totally uncontrolled.
1129
1130“Kya!”
1131
1132A wail. As well as the sound of a body hitting the table. The sound of the grinding of table legs. The sound of chairs flipping. The sound of forks being strewn across the floor, and of utensils breaking.
1133
1134“…Uhh.”
1135
1136Followed by a moan suppressing the pain, which pulled Honoka’s consciousness back to the present scene.
1137
1138What she saw upon turning her head in panic, was Shizuku lying beside the flipped chair. While on the floor behind her, were fragments from all the broken utensils.
1139
1140“Shizuku!? S-Sorry! Are you alright!?”
1141
1142Forgetting what she was crying about——changing into a face like she was about to cry about something else, Honoka hurriedly ran to Shizuku’s side.
1143
1144“It’s nothing.”
1145
1146Lightly holding onto the hand that was trying to help her, Shizuku stood up almost with her own strength.
1147
1148“It was only a light bump. There’s no injury.”
1149
1150This sentence was not said only for Honoka’s benefit, but at the same time also for the maids who had rushed in upon hearing the commotion.
1151
1152Shizuku stood up as if wanting to prove her point, not revealing a single sign of pain. However, upon looking down at the skirt of her dress, she frowned slightly.
1153
1154“Spilt on myself as expected. Let’s change in my room.”
1155
1156The skirt of the dress, was ruined by the milk tea that was sent flying.
1157
1158“That, let me help——”
1159
1160The speech of one of the maids, was cut off by the expressionless Shizuku.
1161
1162“No need. Compared to that, I’m sorry to bother you with this instead.”
1163
1164“Understood.”
1165
1166However the maids, knowing that this family’s “Ojou-sama” did not like people helping her enter the bath or change clothes, no longer brought up the above-mentioned request and immediately attended to Shizuku’s request.
1167
1168“Honoka come with me.”
1169
1170“Y-Yeah.”
1171
1172Shizuku got slammed onto the table and the floor——although slightly exaggerated——the shock that Honoka had received just now was overshadowed by the shock of pushing her to the ground, and she agreed to Shizuku’s words without even thinking about it.
1173
1174
1175
1176
1177
1178“That, Shizuku… I’m sorry, I was so violent against you…”
1179
1180Upon arriving in Shizuku’s room, Honoka looked like she had already calmed down. In the room with only the two of them, what Honoka said, was an apology to Shizuku.
1181
1182“Don’t mind it. There were no injuries, and it doesn’t look like it will leave any scars.”
1183
1184As she was replying, Shizuku who had already taken off her dress, dropped it to the ground. After which she let Honoka examine the left side of her waist, shoulder and elbow that were hit. Indeed, Shizuku’s snow-white skin showed some redness, but it was apparent that it wasn’t to the degree that it would leave scars.
1185
1186“Honoka, sit anywhere you like.”
1187
1188Having changed into a maximum-length one-piece dress made of thick cloth, Shizuku told Honoka while standing.
1189
1190Honoka looked around the room, then sat down on a side of the big bed.
1191
1192“I’ve kept you waiting.”
1193
1194Shizuku who had finished changing sat down beside Honoka. The fact that Honoka was taller, was reflected in their height when sitting down.
1195
1196Naturally, Shizuku’s peeking from below, collided directly with Honoka’s face.
1197
1198“Honoka, are you okay?”
1199
1200This sentence became the trigger, causing the sorrow in Honoka’s heart to awaken.
1201
1202Tears welled up in Honoka’s two eyes.
1203
1204Shizuku straightened her back, putting her hands around Honoka’s shoulders, hugging her.
1205
1206“Tatsuya-san and Miyuki are cousins, is it really true?”
1207
1208“Mhm.”
1209
1210“Tatsuya-san and Miyuki, it’s confirmed that they’re engaged…”
1211
1212While sobbing, Honoka asked.
1213
1214In response to the question she had already answered once, Shizuku tightly hugged her friend as an answer.
1215
1216“How could this be… It’s too cruel…”
1217
1218Just like a dam breaking, Honoka started crying continuously.
1219
1220“Tatsuya-san said before… Clearly that they were siblings… Miyuki too… Said that we were friends…”
1221
1222Shizuku, without saying anything, put one knee on the bed and hugged Honoka’s head tightly against her chest.
1223
1224As the sounds of Honoka’s crying started to weaken——not stopping, but rather tiring from crying——Shizuku remained hugging Honoka tightly against her chest while moving her lips towards Honoka’s ear.
1225
1226“Honoka, you have three paths to choose from.”
1227
1228Honoka’s body, revealed a reaction different from sobbing. Confirming that her words had indeed been registered, Shizuku continued speaking.
1229
1230“The first path would be to give up on Tatsuya-san. I’m afraid this is the option that will hurt the least.”
1231
1232Honoka did not react. She was waiting for the next option.
1233
1234“The second path would be to still not give up, continue to go on the offensive against Tatsuya-san. Tatsuya-san views Miyuki as a sister, I am pretty sure this point is true. For Tatsuya-san, and for Miyuki, the matter of them not being siblings should be very surprising.”
1235
1236“…Is that so.”
1237
1238Honoka’s voice was mixed with crying.
1239
1240“Mhm.”
1241
1242Shizuku specifically did not use words such as “probably” and “I think”, tersely making a stronger statement.
1243
1244“Miyuki probably saw Tatsuya-san as a love interest of the opposite sex from the start but Tatsuya-san’s feelings are at most love for a sister.
1245
1246Hence, to suddenly confirm their engagement, Tatsuya-san should be confused as well.”
1247
1248“But, they’ve already confirmed their engagement…”
1249
1250“They’ve only yet to reject it. It doesn’t mean he has accepted it, hence, the chances are not zero.”
1251
1252Shizuku did not say “there was a chance” but rather “was not zero”.
1253
1254As for its meaning, to the Honoka of now was rather easy to understand.
1255
1256“…The third path is?”
1257
1258Shizuku briefly sucked in a breath of air, and then said so hesitantly.
1259
1260“…The third is, the matter of becoming Tatsuya-san’s mistress.”
1261
1262“Mistress!?”
1263
1264Perhaps it was too much of a surprise. Honoka raised her tear-stained face to look at Shizuku.
1265
1266“Of course, it doesn’t need to be right away. Miyuki might not immediately become the Head of the Yotsuba, either, and I think the marriage is something for the future. Becoming his mistress is a matter for after Tatsuya-san and Miyuki get married.”
1267
1268“Being a mistress.”
1269
1270
1271
1272
1273
1274“Honoka, you can’t bear to not have Tatsuya-san all to yourself?”
1275
1276“This! …maybe a little, but, compared to not being able to be together.”
1277
1278Honoka, blushing and lowering her head, was hugged by Shizuku again.
1279
1280“Tatsuya-san possesses a rather special magical disposition. The matter of having his hereditary genes being inherited by more people, is something the Yotsuba Family should consider as well.”
1281
1282Against Shizuku’s chest, Honoka tightly clasped her hands.
1283
1284“…The one that will hurt Honoka the least is the first path. Giving up on the second path at the time when it becomes untenable will stop you from being hurt again as well. With the third path, however, even if everything is smooth sailing, you will have to live on while bearing irreparable wounds. Not only for you Honoka but even for Miyuki as well.”
1285
1286“……”
1287
1288“As for me, I would actually prefer you to take the first path. However, the choice is yours.”
1289
1290Shizuku knew that the problem was very cruel. However, if things were left as they are, Honoka would only drown in the abyss of sorrow, unable to float up. Shizuku was rather afraid that it could become like this.
1291
1292If she was left to continue like this, Honoka’s sorrow was far too close to extinguishing her dreams. Shizuku was even more afraid that this would happen.
1293
1294Shizuku no longer said anything, awaiting Honoka’s reply.
1295
1296“…I can’t give it up.”
1297
1298That was Honoka’s answer.
1299
1300“I, as of yet, I am still unable to give up. However, I hate that I am not the one that he loves the most. Miyuki and I have the resolve to hurt each other, but to hurt her over and over again, I definitely can’t do it.”
1301
1302Shizuku started feeling heartache. Somewhere in her heart however, she breathed a sigh of relief.
1303
1304“Then.”
1305
1306“I will choose the second path. Until the possibility reaches zero, no matter how many times it takes, I will approach him. …Although, I can’t do anything right now.”
1307
1308To the last part of what Honoka said, Shizuku did not know how to reply and furrowed her brows.
1309
1310“…A bit of rest is a must.”
1311
1312“A rest in love?”
1313
1314“The rest of a heart in love.”
1315
1316Honoka lightly laughed against Shizuku’s chest.
1317
1318Shizuku let go of Honoka then sat down properly, before revealing a shy smile.
1319
1320
1321
1322
1323
1324Chapter 2
1325
1326
1327
1328
1329January 8th, the first day of the new semester. Tatsuya’s group of three people went to school 30 minutes ahead of the usual time.
1330
1331It wasn’t because of some sort of opening ceremony. Even though the three of them were members of the Student Council, it wasn’t because they needed to make preparations for an event related to the beginning of the new semester either.
1332
1333The reason they were going there earlier was because they had received a direct message from school. Yesterday, Tatsuya and Miyuki received an email asking them to come to the Principal’s Office before the school opened.
1334
1335The email had arrived in the afternoon. At the time, even though Miyuki was still in the house, Tatsuya was already headed towards FLT.
1336
1337Therefore, it was only after dinner that they had a chance to talk about it, they immediately understood the reason behind the summons.
1338
1339It would be hard to think of any other reason than the recent confirmation to the Magic Association about Tatsuya and Miyuki’s positions about being a part of the Yotsuba Family.
1340
1341A mix of questioning, and reprimand for reporting false information about their identities to the school and pressure to ensure that, despite the fact they were engaged, they would still act with moderation within the school grounds. These kinds of things were expected.
1342
1343This prediction would prove to be spot on.
1344
1345In front of Tatsuya and Miyuki was the Dean Yaosaka, and deeper into the office, behind an imposing desk, was the Principal himself, Momoyama Azuma. Meanwhile, Minami was in her classroom. The mail had been addressed to Tatsuya and Miyuki only.
1346
1347“Then, you’re saying that you never intended to report false information to the school?”
1348
1349“Indeed. Since it was even recorded in the Family Registry, up until now, I too believed it.”
1350
1351Momoyama could have been frowning due to the militaristic tone of Tatsuya, or it could have been because of his composed attitude, devoid of any tension, that he felt was bordering on insolence.
1352
1353Yaosaka had become quite perceptive of the Principal’s mood changes over the years and he was starting to get nervous himself as he continued to interrogate Tatsuya.
1354
1355“Then that means the Family Registry was falsified? In the eventuality that your custodians intentionally falsified official papers, there is a possibility of you being erased from the School Registry.”
1356
1357“About that, I have heard that you have already received a letter of apology from my father as well as documents explaining this whole affair.”
1358
1359“I certainly received such a letter. That there was a writing error from your departed mother on your birth certificate and that you had never noticed until now, was that it. However, I question the idea that it is impossible not to notice such a mistake for as long as 17 years.”
1360
1361“My father holds no interest in me. Now that I think about it, it might have been because I was never his biological son.”
1362
1363Even after hearing of a parent never caring about his son, Yaosaka’s expression didn’t particularly waver. That’s because these sort of stories, whether in the present or the past, were not that rare.
1364
1365Therefore, he did not think of Tatsuya’s excuse as a lie.
1366
1367“Principal, I do not think that Shiba-kun’s explanation has any particularly strange points.”
1368
1369Momoyama did not return an answer immediately.
1370
1371“The Public Data, including the Family Registry, has already been corrected. If we take their family’s special circumstances into account, I do not think that there is a need for punishment, what do you think.”
1372
1373“I understand the circumstances.”
1374
1375Momoyama was solemnly nodding. On the other hand, Yaosaka was showing clear signs of relaxation.
1376
1377“Indeed, neither of you is responsible for this. It is not the place of the educational team to inflict punishment on the innocent party. However, even if your revocation from the school registry will be canceled this time, do not forget what such errors can bring about. Please transmit this important reminder to your parents.”
1378
1379“Understood.”
1380
1381In order to match the bowing Tatsuya, Miyuki made courteous bows as well.
1382
1383“From here on, even though you are engaged, I will require that you act with moderation within the school’s premises. With your special circumstances in mind, I don’t plan on opposing your cohabitation.”
1384
1385“Thank you very much.”
1386
1387The siblings bowed to Momoyama once again.
1388
1389“…Up until now there were a lot of things that were excused because you were siblings, however, do not forget that from now on you will be seen as engaged.”
1390
1391“Understood.”
1392
1393After Yaosaka brought this fact to their attention, the questioning and admonition in the Principal’s Office came to an end.
1394
1395
1396
1397
1398
1399The “sermon” from the Dean and the Principal ended much quicker than expected. Still, compared to the usual time Tatsuya was a little late in going to Class 2-E.
1400
1401“Ah, there he is.”
1402
1403That was probably the reason why Erika had been waiting by the window until he arrived.
1404
1405“Yo, Tatsuya. Been a while.”
1406
1407It seems like Leo, after learning that Tatsuya hadn’t yet arrived, had went back to his own classroom for a while. Leo greeted him from behind when he passed by Class-F.
1408
1409“Erika, Leo, long time no see.”
1410
1411Tatsuya stopped in the hallway and answered them like this. By the way, the reason Erika’s name was the first to come out of his mouth was because otherwise she would enter a bit of a sulking mood.
1412
1413“Tatsuya-kun, when did you return from Tokyo?”
1414
1415The moment Erika enquired so, Tatsuya recalled that he had made a promise to report as soon as his business was finished.
1416
1417“Four days ago. Sorry about not keeping you informed.”
1418
1419Tatsuya wasn’t the type to forget things. To be more precise, he was unable to forget things. However, this once, he didn’t even have the spare time to remember it.
1420
1421“It’s okay. It must’ve been pretty tough right?”
1422
1423“I know right, but anyway, it’s probably going to be even worse from now on. I’ve already got past the initial shock so, no problem on my end.”
1424
1425Tatsuya felt a slight surprise at Leo’s unexpected speech. It was no surprise at all for Erika to be aware of the latest letter from the Yotsuba Family to the rest of the Magic Association. The Chiba Family was included in the list of the various Families to which duplicates of said letter were sent to after all.
1426
1427However, Leo’s house had no relationship with the Japanese Magic Community. As a matter of fact, Leo’s magical genes came from his grandfather who was a refugee originating from Germany, he has no blood ties to any other Magician Family that Japan exploits. That is why he shouldn’t have the means to get information from the Magic Association nor even hear rumors from any of the Houses that are part of it.
1428
1429Has the information about me, Miyuki and the Yotsuba Family’s relationship already spread that far… The answer to the question Tatsuya was asking himself was soon afterwards given to him.
1430
1431As soon as he entered the classroom, all of his classmates’ stares gathered on him, then immediately turned away.
1432
1433“Good morning.”
1434
1435Tatsuya more or less understood what the others were thinking of him, still, he greeted Mizuki who was sitting next to him as usual.
1436
1437“Ah, umm, good morning…”
1438
1439As expected, Mizuki immediately averted her eyes after returning the greeting. It was made obvious that she had heard about Tatsuya and Miyuki’s situation.
1440
1441Tatsuya also turned his eyes away from Mizuki and ejected the terminal attached to his desk.
1442
1443The two people who had talked with Tatsuya before he entered the classroom. Erika, who was resting her elbow on the window’s bottom frame, and Leo who was right behind him, sent anxious looks his way.
1444
1445Tatsuya met their gazes and wore an expression that said “don’t worry”.
1446
1447This morning, Mikihiko didn’t appear in Class 2-E.
1448
1449
1450
1451
1452
1453The morning classes came to an end. It looks like Tatsuya’s classmates’ way of dealing with him was to ignore him as much as they could.
1454
1455Tatsuya typically didn’t talk much with his classmates in the first place; however, it was the first time not even a single person addressed him for half a day. Despite the fact he had kept his distance, it had been a daily occurrence that people asked him for help when they had problems.
1456
1457Tatsuya didn’t care about his classmates’ stares, even if they were filled with ill will or hostility. If they were ready to ostracize him then he would just have to shut out and deny their very existences.
1458
1459It’s not as if Tatsuya hated humans.
1460
1461But at the same time, it’s not like he particularly liked them. ——Himself included.
1462
1463Tatsuya strongly felt that so long as Miyuki was near him, he didn’t need anything else.
1464
1465The existence of people other than Miyuki was of no real importance to him, although it was preferable to have people around in order to live a pleasant school life, it went no further than that. For that reason however, he wanted to maintain at least reasonably good relationships so as not to let them turn into clear hostile ones.
1466
1467In the current atmosphere, it would be unpleasant to make the first step.
1468
1469That was what Tatsuya thought.
1470
1471“Mizuki, I’m going to the Student Council Room, could you please relay so if anyone asks.”
1472
1473“Y-yes!”
1474
1475Her voice to Tatsuya, Mizuki’s reaction showed signs of fear.
1476
1477So as to not lose Mizuki completely, it had been necessary to interact, even at the cost of scaring her.
1478
1479
1480
1481
1482
1483Tatsuya wasn’t lying when he said he was heading towards the Student Council Room. However he made a U-turn in front of the door.
1484
1485That was because Honoka and Shizuku were inside.
1486
1487Without opening the door nor using his “Elemental Sight”, he could understand this much, if they were only separated by a single door. It would be another story if they could make their presence difficult to notice like Tatsuya, for him, this had become an unconscious act, regular students however were unlikely to conceal their presence on the school grounds.
1488
1489Since Honoka was a member of the Student Council it wasn’t surprising that she was present. He was also used to Shizuku spending a lot of time there as well. However, the fact that the two of them were present on this particular day was indeed surprising.
1490
1491Contrary to his expectations, Miyuki wasn’t present in the Student Council’s Room.
1492
1493Tatsuya left the place as it was.
1494
1495
1496
1497
1498
1499The reason Honoka and Shizuku were in the Student Council Room was to escape the curious glances they would be exposed to in the dining room. It was a pretty well-known fact in First High that they were close friends of Miyuki’s. The number of girls in their second year who also knew about Honoka’s feelings towards Tatsuya were not just a few.
1500
1501For the same reason, Miyuki avoided the dining room. Even more so because she was the one who the rumors were talking about. As the Student Council President, Miyuki often ate her lunch in the Student Council’s Room. Tatsuya thought it’d be the case today as well. If anything, Tatsuya thought that the one who would want to avoid Miyuki was Honoka, but it seems like it was the opposite.
1502
1503Keeping in mind what the Principal told to them this morning, for the time being Tatsuya thought it would be best to avoid having lunch together. It seems like Miyuki thought this would be a necessity as well, Tatsuya had come up with this proposition as soon as they came out of the Principal’s Office, wearing a dissatisfied expression she had reluctantly accepted.
1504
1505For that reason, they hadn’t determined any particular meeting spot.
1506
1507However, by focusing his senses even just a little, Tatsuya would be able to immediately tell where Miyuki was. It wasn’t that difficult to imagine what she was up to either, after confirming her position, Tatsuya headed towards the place she was.
1508
1509
1510
1511
1512
1513The door to the rooftop was opened. And without a shadow of a doubt, Miyuki was there.
1514
1515Even though snow hadn’t fallen or anything like that, the temperature was still only in the first half of the single digit range. If you think about it, there really wasn’t any other student who would come here with such cold weather. It was a good place for someone who wanted to be alone.
1516
1517“Ah, Onii-sama. I’ve been waiting for you.”
1518
1519Well, it wasn’t exactly “to be alone” though more like “for the two of us to be alone”. It seems like that was Miyuki’s plan from the very beginning.
1520
1521“If you had told me I’d have come immediately you know?”
1522
1523Miyuki softly smiled at Tatsuya’s answer.
1524
1525“There is no way Onii-sama wouldn’t know where to find me.”
1526
1527Befitting of the smile turned towards him, Tatsuya’s body was being enveloped in a gentle warmth. It wasn’t just his imagination. That was Miyuki’s magic.
1528
1529“Onii-sama, you still haven’t had lunch right? Please sit over here.”
1530
1531Miyuki offered the seat next to her. She was currently sitting on a three-person bench, at the right end of it. Since Tatsuya had originally planned on sitting next to her, he accepted her offer without any reservation.
1532
1533Miyuki took out two boxes of varying sizes from the insulated pack that was resting on her lap. The small one was left on her lap and she presented the bigger one to Tatsuya. Needless to say, they were bento-boxes.
1534
1535“So you even prepared bento-boxes?”
1536
1537“Yes, I prepared them after Onii-sama went to his morning training. I thought they would be useful today.”
1538
1539Now that she mentioned it, Tatsuya remembered that Minami was carrying a fairly large bag while they were headed towards the Principal’s Office.
1540
1541“I see. Thank you, Miyuki.”
1542
1543Tatsuya thought that it’d have been pointless to not express his gratitude beforehand. However that’s not exactly what he should have said, or so he thought. Miyuki most certainly prepared the bento-boxes because she anticipated what would happen today. And the reason for keeping silent about them was probably that she didn’t want him to realize how bad the situation would be.
1544
1545“Don’t mention it. Still, it looks like we’ll end up having lunch together after all.”
1546
1547Tatsuya couldn’t help but turn a wry smile at Miyuki’s words mixed with a little scorn.
1548
1549“If you had told me about the bento-boxes this morning I wouldn’t have suggested we take our lunches separately.”
1550
1551“Oh my, is that true?”
1552
1553Despite her dissatisfied tone Miyuki was in a cheerful mood. Probably because, setting the small details aside, they were having lunch with only the two of them.
1554
1555However, in Tatsuya’s eyes, a little bit of bravado might have been mixed in as well.
1556
1557“Alright then. Then, allow me to dig in.”
1558
1559“Please, do so.”
1560
1561Receiving the authorization to, Tatsuya opened the lid of the bento-box.
1562
1563Showing a mischievous smile, Miyuki held out a pair of chopsticks for Tatsuya.
1564
1565“Anyway, there should be no problem in allowing me to feed you as well.”
1566
1567Maintaining her balance so as not to drop the bento-box on her own lap, Miyuki picked up a piece of Tatsuya’s lunch with her own chopsticks.
1568
1569She then brought it near Tatsuya’s mouth.
1570
1571“Allow me.”
1572
1573Saying so without any sign of panic, Tatsuya moved his neck so as to eat what Miyuki was holding with her chopsticks without touching them.
1574
1575Miyuki’s face quickly reddened.
1576
1577Miyuki rearranged her sitting posture in a panic and opened the lid of her own bento-box.
1578
1579In other words, she had just performed a self-destroying move.
1580
1581“The bento-box prepared by Miyuki is as expected, really delicious.”
1582
1583While openly stating so, Tatsuya stole side-glances at Miyuki’s face.
1584
1585And, he estimated that the teasing should not go any further. To tell the truth he really wanted to follow up with a “Won’t you feed me for a bit longer?” but restrained himself.
1586
1587“…Being just the two of us is nice, however, having only the wintry sky as a scenery can get pretty depressing. If we could find a suitable, unused classroom I’d like to relocate there from tomorrow on.”
1588
1589Tatsuya didn’t want this little joke to take a bad turn so he changed the subject, Miyuki, who was hanging her head down, looked up at him.
1590
1591“Is it okay for us to… eat together from tomorrow on?”
1592
1593“I think it might be preferable to do it like this for a while. Although, the days when the Student Council has a lot of work will be different.”
1594
1595Even though that was going in the opposite direction from what they had planned this morning, Miyuki didn’t object.
1596
1597“Let’s find one before the end of the day.”
1598
1599Clenching her hands into fists, Miyuki powerfully declared so.
1600
1601“I’ll search for one on my own as well, so don’t push yourself too hard.”
1602
1603At Tatsuya’s smile, the younger sister’s burning enthusiasm calmed down.
1604
1605
1606
1607
1608
1609“——How was Class-A?”
1610
1611Tatsuya started this conversation after the both of them had finished their bento-boxes and cleaned up.
1612
1613“I know it can’t be helped but it’s still uncomfortable. It looks like everyone is looking at me from afar and it feels like they’re all talking behind our backs.”
1614
1615“No one addressed me either today.”
1616
1617“I wasn’t even able to talk to Honoka or Shizuku.”
1618
1619Hearing this, Tatsuya slightly frowned.
1620
1621“…Were they angry?”
1622
1623“As long as I was directly talking to them they responded but… Yes. At the very least I got the impression that they were avoiding me.”
1624
1625Miyuki seemed a little lonely while answering.
1626
1627“Won’t it be alright even if we don’t talk to them about it? I think these two will understand that we had no choice in the matter.”
1628
1629“…It would be great if that was the case.”
1630
1631Miyuki’s smile had a tinge of sadness mixed in it.
1632
1633“I think it’ll be alright. There’s no use worrying about something we can’t do anything about.”
1634
1635Tatsuya put his hand on Miyuki’s cheek. Miyuki pressed her own hand against his and shut her eyes.
1636
1637“Understood.”
1638
1639“Time might settle all of this on its own. For now, it’s not to a point where we should be pessimistic about it.”
1640
1641“I see… However, that is the same for Onii-sama.”
1642
1643Miyuki turned a playful gaze towards Tatsuya.
1644
1645“Since we’re talking about Onii-sama, maybe your friends are thinking of leaving you alone ‘until time settles things’ as well? I think that occasionally, one should step up to solve these kinds of problems, don’t you think?”
1646
1647“You got me.”
1648
1649Tatsuya smiled wryly with a “touché” expression.
1650
1651
1652
1653
1654
1655After returning home, Tatsuya called the direct number for the Yotsuba Family’s Head.
1656
1657Even though Tatsuya wasn’t allowed to directly call Maya up until New Year’s Eve, their current relationship was officially that of a Mother and Son.
1658
1659Miyuki was next to Tatsuya. Even though this was usually the time to start preparing dinner, Miyuki knew this matter took precedence.
1660
1661Tonight’s dinner had been left in Minami’s hands.
1662
1663[Sorry to have kept you waiting. The timing on Tatsuya-san’s report is excellent.]
1664
1665In fact, this call was the second. During the first call it had been Hayama that appeared on the screen. He asked them to call back in roughly 20 minutes, instruction that Tatsuya followed to a T.
1666
1667“Do you have an order for us?”
1668
1669[Would you let me hear your story first, Tatsuya-san?]
1670
1671Even though Tatsuya was slightly anxious about what business she might have with them, he obediently followed her request.
1672
1673“Today we were called by Momoyama, the Principal of First High.”
1674
1675Starting like this, Tatsuya reported what had been said during their meeting.
1676
1677[Momoyama-sensei is pretty strict…]
1678
1679Maya let out an amused tone for some reason. Judging by the way she was talking about him, they were probably acquaintances.
1680
1681[In any case, thanks for reporting. Tatsuya-san doesn’t need to do anything in particular.]
1682
1683“As you wish.”
1684
1685Tatsuya and Miyuki bowed towards the camera.
1686
1687[There is something I need to inform you of, on my side.]
1688
1689After the both of them looked up, Maya began explaining.
1690
1691Apparently, they were about to receive a new mission. Thinking so, Tatsuya adopted the posture of someone listening with attention.
1692
1693[Regarding the matter of the notification to the Magic Association about your engagement, it seems like we have received a formal protest from the Ichijou Family.]
1694
1695“Oba-sama, why would the Ichijou Family do something like this?”
1696
1697Even though Miyuki’s voice had remained calm on the surface, a strong resentment was hidden beneath it. Understanding this much wasn’t that hard for Tatsuya and Maya.
1698
1699[It’s not easy to say but.]
1700
1701While that might have been true, Maya didn’t keep it to herself and started explaining. It wasn’t because she was sensitive about Miyuki’s feelings that she hesitated, rather, it seemed like she was thoroughly enjoying the sight of Miyuki struggling to keep her emotions in check.
1702
1703[The Ichijou Family’s argument is that the blood ties are too close. The talent of a Magician is a property of the Nation, it would do no good to have the next generation plagued by genetic abnormalities.]
1704
1705“Such.”
1706
1707“Surely this isn’t all there is to it.”
1708
1709Interrupting a Miyuki that was about to shout, Tatsuya presented Maya with a question.
1710
1711“The prevention of future generations’ gene abnormalities is not a concern limited to Magicians. That is why the law might forbid a marriage depending on the degree of kinship.”
1712
1713[This might not be the only reason but it certainly makes up the largest portion of their objection.]
1714
1715“Conversely, the Ten Master Clans shouldn’t have the power to question the validity of a lawful engagement. Surely the Ichijou Family had something else to say?”
1716
1717Hearing Tatsuya’s point, Maya expressed a satisfied smile and nodded.
1718
1719[It’s exactly as you said. As expected of Tatsuya-san.]
1720
1721Tatsuya on the other hand didn’t express any satisfaction at being praised.
1722
1723“Then, just what exactly did they say?”
1724
1725[Well, that is… They proposed that their eldest son to become Miyuki-san’s betrothed.]
1726
1727“Please decline!”
1728
1729To Maya’s answer, Miyuki’s voice rose in a flash.
1730
1731“Miyuki.”
1732
1733[It’s alright, Tatsuya-san.]
1734
1735Although Tatsuya was about to reprimand Miyuki for raising her voice like that, Maya showed tolerance towards her pleasant response.
1736
1737[It is natural that Miyuki-san is angered. I also have a problem with the fact they replied with a notification of marriage with a marriage proposal of their own.]
1738
1739“In that case, the rejection answer…?”
1740
1741Miyuki expectantly asked this.
1742
1743[No, not yet, Miyuki-san. I don’t plan on answering the Ichijou Family for a while.]
1744
1745However, contrary to her expectations, Maya’s answer was a subtle “No”.
1746
1747“If that is the case, won’t our position suffer?”
1748
1749Maya answered Tatsuya’s question with a nod carrying the meaning of an “I know”.
1750
1751[I do not intend to leave it as is forever. That’s why the two of you shouldn’t worry about it too much, alright.]
1752
1753“No imprudent moves, is it?”
1754
1755[Indeed. You two just have to happily spend time together as usual.]
1756
1757To Maya’s sentence who emphasized the word “Happily”,
1758
1759“Oba-sama…”
1760
1761Miyuki looked away with an embarrassed expression.
1762
1763“Understood.”
1764
1765However, Tatsuya bowed towards the camera while keeping a serious expression.
1766
1767
1768
1769
1770
1771Even though it was now the second day of the school semester, there was no change in the current life of Tatsuya and Miyuki at First High.
1772
1773The other students hesitated to approach them, yet but they were unable to hide their curiosity. Oh well, this isn’t the kind of situation that can get better in just a single day after all. ——It could easily get worse in a single day however.
1774
1775Originally, Miyuki had a tendency of being idolized in First High.
1776
1777Appearance, Ability, just because of those two traits of hers alone, she was hard to approach. And now, lineage was added to the mix. Not only her classmates and underclassmen but even her upperclassmen were nervous in her presence.
1778
1779On the other hand, the number of people who deep in their hearts felt “fear” towards Tatsuya were not just a few.
1780
1781Fear. Horror. Anxiety. The kind of fear, dread and awe that an exceptional warrior would inspire.
1782
1783And after they learned that Tatsuya was a part of “the” Yotsuba Family, these feelings were amplified. Getting closer is too scary and at the same time, they’re too afraid to completely ignore him. This contradiction made it look like they were being cold towards him.
1784
1785The interest they bore towards them, of course, wasn’t only because of their youthful High School Student curiosity. Stars and Idols being the center of scandals was not something new. They couldn’t help being curious about the story of the siblings that had too good of a relationship, were later revealed to be cousins, got engaged and are, even now, still living together.
1786
1787Before the start of morning classes. Soon after arriving at Class 1-C, Minami was encircled by a crowd of people who seemed to be mainly composed of girls.
1788
1789“Like I said already, nothing has changed from before.”
1790
1791Minami had been repeating this answer many times already since her arrival. Her responses sometimes varied between “They didn’t do such a thing” to “I am not allowed to respond to this” or even “Sorry, I can’t answer.”
1792
1793“Eeh, but, you are together all day long right?”
1794
1795“That means, when they’re going to sleep as well… right?”
1796
1797A high-pitched shriek shot up from the crowd. Minami on the other hand emitted a discreet sigh.
1798
1799“As I said already, Tatsuya-sama and Miyuki-sama never do these kinds of things.”
1800
1801Despite the fact that Minami was well aware that they wouldn’t listen, she kept answering faithfully. She did so because they might take her silence as consent otherwise.
1802
1803Maybe her perseverance won out in the end because the next questions were different.
1804
1805“By the way Sakurai-san, up until December you were calling the Shiba siblings ‘Tatsuya-niisama’ and ‘Miyuki-neesama’ right? Could it be, Sakurai-san is also a member of the Yotsuba Family?”
1806
1807The chattering of the crowd that was around Minami stopped immediately. What would she answer? They were waiting with bated breath for her response.
1808
1809“I have been addressing them this way until now because it was a direct order from Tatsuya-sama. I am, well, I have a debt towards the Yotsuba Family, so…”
1810
1811Her original answer would have sounded too much like the truth that “she is a being dedicated to serve the Yotsuba Family” so she hurriedly changed it. However, due to this, she stumbled during her explanation, this really betrayed the given impression that “she’s hiding something”.
1812
1813“Hmm, really?”
1814
1815“It is the truth.”
1816
1817Because it was a fact that she was lying, even the voice that she used to refute the others’ doubts was pretty weak. If she had raised her voice and used a strong denying tone, it might have been easier to deceive the students.
1818
1819“Eh… So the Yotsuba Family also does these kinds of things.”
1820
1821There are plenty of dangerous things in a Magician’s work. It wasn’t that unusual to hear reports of Magician’s sons and daughters dying while performing their work or accomplishing their duties. In First High. No, in this very Class-C classroom, there have been such cases already. That was the reason there wasn’t any particularly awkward reaction at Minami’s “they helped me” explanation.
1822
1823“However, since you actually received help from the Yotsuba Family, that means you can’t be considered to have no relation whatsoever with them right?”
1824
1825“That may be the case but was it natural to investigate by directly asking the concerned person persistently?”
1826
1827“No, not really…”
1828
1829“Alright everyone, the lesson will begin pretty soon! If you don’t go back to your seat as soon as possible you might lose a few points on your evaluation scores.”
1830
1831The person who had just saved Minami from the very inconsiderate questions from her classmates was the person who was pretty much the leading figure of this class.
1832
1833“Saegusa-san? But we still have some time.”
1834
1835To Kasumi who had loudly interrupted the questioning from the back, a single female student had a look at her terminal to confirm the hour and answer back.
1836
1837“The lesson will begin pre-tty soon right?”
1838
1839However Kasumi countered her complaint by repeating the exact same phrase with a smile.
1840
1841“I-I guess.”
1842
1843It wasn’t because what Kasumi said was correct, but rather, there wasn’t a student who could resist the overpowering feeling that her smile gave off and thus, Minami’s surroundings slowly cleared as students were returning to their seats in groups of two or three.
1844
1845Kasumi folded her arms and saw off the remaining students before proudly sitting at her own seat.
1846
1847“Um, Saegusa-san. Thank you very much.”
1848
1849Minami expressed her gratitude to her back.
1850
1851“Don’t mention it. I hate these kinds of things too.”
1852
1853Kasumi turned her head towards Minami and winked.
1854
1855
1856
1857
1858
1859During recess time Minami managed to avoid being the center of the usual crowd. However that was only because second period was a practical class and they couldn’t do that while moving towards the classroom. Unfortunately, it wouldn’t be that easy to dodge during lunch break. The number of classmates who thought this would be the best time to talk freely weren’t just one or two.
1860
1861More than half of Class-C stood up as soon as the bell rang to signal the end of the morning classes.
1862
1863“Sakurai-san, you’re going to the Student Council Room right? Let’s go together.”
1864
1865However, the one who was the fastest in inviting her was Kasumi.
1866
1867In a sense, it was a natural result since the seating arrangements for the First Year’s was the traditional gender-based syllabic order. Kasumi’s family name was, of course, “Saegusa” while Minami’s was “Sakurai”. In other words, Kasumi’s seat was just in front of Minami. So it was indeed natural that, given everyone reacted at the same time, Kasumi would be the first to reach her.
1868
1869“Ah… Yes.”
1870
1871Minami was slightly surprised at this sudden conversation. Her surprise was understandable, after all, despite the fact they had been classmates for nine months now, it was the very first time that Kasumi directly invited her somewhere.
1872
1873Kasumi didn’t have anything against Minami herself. Since she was a close acquaintance of Tatsuya’s however, she kind of avoided her up until now. And suddenly, this happened. Minami wasn’t the only one who was surprised.
1874
1875“Come on, let’s go.”
1876
1877Being urged on by Kasumi, Minami reached the bag that contained her bento-box in a bit of a panic and stood up from her seat.
1878
1879
1880
1881
1882
1883“Well, Saegusa-san.”
1884
1885They were headed towards the stairs leading to the Student Council Room when Minami matched Kasumi’s pace and started up a conversation, her expression was that of someone who had a few questions.
1886
1887“Hmm, what is it?”
1888
1889After stealing a glance at Minami, Kasumi replied with a curt question.
1890
1891“Just like this morning, thank you very much for what you did. However, may I ask why you are helping me.”
1892
1893Up until now Kasumi never gave Minami any reason to think she disliked her, but it’s not like she gave her any reason to think she liked her either. That certainly wasn’t just an impression on Minami’s part. It was a fact that there had never been any degree of conversation above the expected minimum between the two classmates. Minami herself never really tried to proactively talk to Kasumi, hence why she still couldn’t understand the reason behind her actions.
1894
1895“I told you before. That I hate these kinds of things.”
1896
1897The smile that Kasumi turned towards Minami seemed a little awkward.
1898
1899The reason was that being openly told by someone who you aren’t well acquainted with to begin with, “you helped me”, was a little too much for Kasumi, in other words she was shy.
1900
1901“I know how these sort of things feel like. They likely don’t have any bad intentions, they’re just satisfying their curiosity, but they can get pretty insensitive sometimes.”
1902
1903“You’re right.”
1904
1905Minami wasn’t hurt because of the barrage of inconsiderate questions in itself but by the fact that there were a lot of questions she couldn’t answer due to her position. Still, since she also wanted the other side to take her feelings into account, she couldn’t help but nod at Kasumi’s words.
1906
1907“Sigh. I also have had quite a few bad experiences.”
1908
1909Minami understood that she was trying to cheer her up. Kasumi unintentionally referred to herself using “Boku[1]”, something she had never done at school.
1910
1911Kasumi didn’t notice her blunder.
1912
1913When it reached her ears, Minami was a bit taken aback, due to her training as a servant however she managed to keep a straight face.
1914
1915
1916
1917
1918
1919Saturday, January 12th, it was the first weekend since the beginning of the new school semester.
1920
1921Even though the classes on Saturday were only in the morning, the dining hall was still left open for the students with Club activities and members of the Committee. Erika, Leo and Mizuki had Club activities while Mikihiko had his duties as a member of the Disciplinary Committee, they all gathered in the dining room to prepare for the afternoon.
1922
1923Compared to a month ago, the number of people present during their lunch break had been halved. Since Tatsuya, Miyuki, and Honoka were members of the Student Council they should be having lunch in the Student Council Room——though in Tatsuya and Miyuki’s case, it seems that since the beginning of the new school semester until yesterday they had taken their lunch in secret in another classroom. This is what information Erika had heard from Shizuku.
1924
1925The reason there wasn’t much of a conversation at their table wasn’t only because of their decreased number. The usual mood-maker, Erika, her expression and her every gesture were practically oozing of irritation.
1926
1927Maybe Mikihiko thought it was best to quickly disperse, he finished his lunch in a hurry and was about to stand up from his seat.
1928
1929“Miki, wait for a bit.”
1930
1931However, Erika who forced him to sit down again stopped his movement dead in its tracks.
1932
1933“What is it.”
1934
1935In order to hide his trembling due to his escape attempt being found out, he answered with a strong voice.
1936
1937“Wait until Mizuki finishes her lunch.”
1938
1939Of course, Erika wasn’t the type to back down that easily. The one who tremblingly calmed down the two’s arguing was Mizuki.
1940
1941In the end, Mizuki put down her chopsticks on her plate which still had about a third of its original contents left.
1942
1943Currently, the four of them were sitting in the following order, Erika and Mizuki were next to each other while Leo was in front of Erika.
1944
1945Erika directed a sharp voice towards Mikihiko, who was sitting diagonally from her.
1946
1947“Miki, just what are you doing exactly?”
1948
1949“What do you mean.”
1950
1951Mikihiko once again answered in a strong tone however, his voice was unnaturally stiff.
1952
1953“I see, so you won’t understand unless I say it directly? In that case I will!”
1954
1955Erika’s swung her palm down on the table.
1956
1957She paid no attention whatsoever to the numerous stares that turned towards her due to the loud sound she had just made.
1958
1959“I’m asking you why the hell are you avoiding Tatsuya-kun!”
1960
1961The dining room instantly became silent. Everyone’s gazes were concentrated on Erika and Mikihiko. While Erika could ignore the others’ stares, Mikihiko didn’t have such composure.
1962
1963“I’m not really… avoiding him or anything.”
1964
1965“Huh? So you’re gonna play dumb?”
1966
1967Mikihiko faltered in the face of the fire that was in Erika’s eyes.
1968
1969“It’s obvious that you’re avoiding Tatsuya-kun, even to this idiot over here.”
1970
1971The person Erika was pointing to with her finger was Leo.
1972
1973“Who are you calling an idiot! …Putting that aside, Mikihiko. It’s just as this tomboy is sayi—”
1974
1975After having said that, Leo suddenly let out a scream.
1976
1977“Ouch! You…! You have something on your shoe!”
1978
1979“Don’t worry, it’s not an iron tip or anything like that.”
1980
1981If you were to ask what just happened, it seems like Erika kicked Leo’s leg under the table.
1982
1983The atmosphere loosened a little. For Mizuki and Mikihiko, this wasn’t that rare of an occurrence.
1984
1985“Sigh… Somehow I feel exhausted.”
1986
1987This allowed them to take a breather before going right back in, even for Erika, this had been convenient.
1988
1989“Oh well. Miki, to be honest, I don’t even want to hear why you’re avoiding Tatsuya-kun. However, if it’s just because Tatsuya-kun is from the Yotsuba Family, then it’s not a reason to avoid him like you do. If you think it is, then there is no point in calling yourself his friend.”
1990
1991Erika quietly stared at Mikihiko in the eyes. It was because Erika had been so aggressive that Mikihiko had been obstinate a few moments before. However, with such sincere eyes turned towards him, the guilt that he felt deep inside didn’t allow him to feign ignorance anymore.
1992
1993“…It’s not because he’s a member of the Yotsuba Family. No, to be honest that is one of the reasons. Rather I resent Tatsuya for not telling any of us sooner.”
1994
1995Despite saying that he was resenting him, the expression that Mikihiko wore was one of regret.
1996
1997Erika and Leo instinctively looked at each other.
1998
1999“Wait a second, Mikihiko. Don’t you think it’s a bit wrong?”
2000
2001Leo kept on talking to a Mikihiko that couldn’t look at him in the eyes.
2002
2003“Don’t you think Tatsuya felt bad being forced to hide this from us? You should understand better than anyone that this was some kind of tradition he had to abide to right?”
2004
2005“Miki.”
2006
2007Erika sent a sharp voice flying towards a Mikihiko that still didn’t show any reaction to Leo’s words.
2008
2009“Let’s assume you had heard of this directly from Tatsuya-kun, what would’ve changed?”
2010
2011Mikihiko was at a loss for words. No, even if he tried to answer back he was unable to form a coherent response. Using this opportunity, Erika pressed even further.
2012
2013“If you had heard this from Tatsuya-kun directly, do you think it’d have ended with a simple “Oh, I see”? Do you think you’d have been able to hang out like before? Looking at the way you reacted to this affair, I really don’t think that’s the case.”
2014
2015Mikihiko couldn’t answer back. He couldn’t even come up with a makeshift lie.
2016
2017“In other words, Miki, you’re just afraid of the Yotsuba name.”
2018
2019“…What about you Erika.”
2020
2021Mikihiko finally abandoned the tough act he was putting on until now.
2022
2023Taking a defiant attitude, he answered back at Erika with a somewhat pouting voice.
2024
2025However, that was a silly question.
2026
2027“What do you think, of course I’m terrified.”
2028
2029For Erika, bluffing about her own weaknesses was something she simply couldn’t do.
2030
2031“He’s a member of that Yotsuba Family. If we ever found someone who wasn’t afraid after hearing that, he’d just be a gigantic fool. We’re way past the limits of the things you can just hear about for the first time and be done with it.”
2032
2033“Then how can you just keep going on like nothing happened!?”
2034
2035“Isn’t it obvious, it’s because we’re friends.”
2036
2037Erika answered his question wearing the exact same expression that she had when she admitted that she was afraid earlier.
2038
2039“The Yotsuba Family is scary. No one knows what they do and it makes me uneasy. But still, Tatsuya-kun is my friend. Even if I don’t trust the Yotsuba Family, I trust Tatsuya-kun. And that holds true even if there are a lot of things he needs to hide.”
2040
2041Erika was stared at Mikihiko in the eyes and delivered the finishing blow.
2042
2043“To begin with, there are things Miki hides from us as well, and they’re not limited to a mere 10 or 20 things either.”
2044
2045“That’s…”
2046
2047“I won’t let you say that it’s not the case. We’ve been hanging out for a long time after all.”
2048
2049“……”
2050
2051“It goes for me as well. Things I don’t want you guys to know, things that I absolutely don’t plan on sharing with you, there are a lot.”
2052
2053Mikihiko looked away awkwardly. The reason was, he actually had an idea as to what her “things she doesn’t want known” was referring to.
2054
2055“There were things he couldn’t share with us? Well of course, we’re not married or anything, so isn’t it actually normal.”
2056
2057Mikihiko looked away dejectedly. As he was right now, he didn’t have any excuses left.
2058
2059“How come… Erika and Leo were able to find so quickly the correct way to deal with all of this?”
2060
2061Outside of Mikihiko’s field of view, Erika stole a glance at Leo.
2062
2063“I guess that’s because I’ve never faced a Yotsuba. I don’t even know how dangerous Yotsuba Magicians are. However, I know Tatsuya.
2064
2065Despite knowing how dangerous Tatsuya can be, I also know that I can trust him to the end.”
2066
2067Leo felt embarrassed at his own speech and forced a clumsy smile before continuing.
2068
2069“Well, it might be a misunderstanding. Though I figured it out on my own. I understand why he was keeping silent about it and above all, I trust Tatsuya because he’s my friend. Letting this ‘possibility’ ruin our relationship would be stupid.”
2070
2071“Leo… you’re an amazing guy.”
2072
2073Mikihiko wasn’t the only one watching Leo with an amazed expression.
2074
2075Erika was the same. When she caught Mikihiko’s eyes turning towards her she hurriedly regained her composure.
2076
2077“Was it the same for you Erika?”
2078
2079“Not exactly… Even I wasn’t able to immediately come out with the appropriate reaction. However, I didn’t need to dwell on it for three or four days.”
2080
2081Erika learned about Tatsuya’s lineage in February of last year. Even if she was aware of that fact, the shock she received was exactly the same as the others. However, even if their situations were different, Erika managed to recover from the mental damage in less than a day.
2082
2083If Erika hadn’t suffered the same kind of shock then it would have been impossible for her to understand Mikihiko’s dilemma to this extent, that’s what he thought. However, he couldn’t come to terms with the fact that while he had been indecisive, she had overcome the trauma.
2084
2085“…I see.”
2086
2087Mikihiko shut his eyes and ceased all movement. His posture didn’t have the serenity of someone meditating, but the suffering of an internal conflict.
2088
2089“…I understand.”
2090
2091After opening his eyes, Mikihiko reported so to Erika.
2092
2093“I also think of Tatsuya as a friend. I will do my best. On Monday of next week, everything will be settled.”
2094
2095Mikihiko’s expression seemed a little refreshed.
2096
2097Erika smiled with satisfaction, she then turned her eyes towards the nearby Mizuki.
2098
2099“Mizuki, this goes for you as well.”
2100
2101“Eh!?”
2102
2103Mizuki’s reaction wasn’t that of someone who had just been suddenly greeted, rather, it was as if she had just dodged a spear by a hair’s breadth.
2104
2105“You must stop treating Miyuki and Tatsuya-kun so coldly. Even Miki said he’d do his best, so you should be able to do it as well, right?”
2106
2107“Hmm…”
2108
2109“You-can-do-it-too, right?”
2110
2111“Y-Yes… Understood! I will do something about it!”
2112
2113Erika forcefully pressed the indecisive-looking Mizuki.
2114
2115“Shibata-san, I will do my best as well. Let’s do it together.”
2116
2117To answer Mikihiko’s words of encouragement,
2118
2119“…Yes! Let’s do our best.”
2120
2121Mizuki cheerfully nodded.
2122
2123Admonishing Mikihiko in front of Mizuki had been Erika’s plan. Erika expected Mizuki to be difficult to persuade if she had tried to do it alone, that’s why she first made Mikihiko promise to amend his relationship with Tatsuya, to get her to do the same.
2124
2125The result was just as she had predicted.
2126
2127However, as she had planned, faced with the two people who (mentally held their hands in encouragement, Erika showed an “I can’t stand this” expression and turned her head away.
2128
2129
2130
2131
2132
2133Due to Erika’s (and Leo, a little) persuasiveness, Mikihiko and Mizuki decided to abandon their current attitude towards Tatsuya and Miyuki.
2134
2135However, fighting her feelings wasn’t that easy for Honoka.
2136
2137She had already decided how she would act towards Tatsuya in the future. However, she had yet to muster the courage to actually do it, not to mention how she should act towards Miyuki.
2138
2139Honoka honestly thought of Miyuki as a friend.
2140
2141However, at the same time, she was a strong rival in love. Moreover, she was leading by two or three steps already.
2142
2143After being admonished by Shizuku, she no longer cared about the fact Tatsuya and Miyuki had deceived her. After all, it seemed like Tatsuya and Miyuki themselves had been deceived.
2144
2145Still, it wasn’t possible for Honoka to smile at them like before. Due to Honoka’s behavior, Miyuki herself didn’t know how to act and the atmosphere had become awkward between them, it was a vicious cycle.
2146
2147Even now, Honoka was running away from the Student Council Room and was heading towards the Club Management’s Headquarters. Honoka was the Student Council Treasurer. Allowing a supplementary budget to the various Clubs was part of her job. As such, there wasn’t anything strange in her visiting the Club Management’s Headquarters. However even if the people in her surroundings didn’t think it was strange——she herself knew that she was just avoiding Miyuki. The fact she was actually aware of that fact depressed her even more.
2148
2149The current head of the Club Management Group was in the same club as Honoka, an acquaintance of hers since their first year, his name was Igarashi. A boy whose temperament was a subtle balance of gentleness and timidity. There was a saying that went “He’s neither sugar nor salt” though in Igarashi’s case, you could definitely say that he was sugar.
2150
2151He wasn’t to Honoka’s taste but in her current emotional state, he was an agreeable partner. He had become a suitable person to speak to when she wanted a change of mood.
2152
2153“Excuse me. It’s Mitsui from the Student Council.”
2154
2155“Please, you may enter.”
2156
2157After she reported her visit through the interphone, the answer didn’t come from the speakers, the door opened and she was directly invited in.
2158
2159The student who had come out was the first year Shippou Takuma.
2160
2161Even though, at first, there had been a lot of bad rumors about him from his classmates, his attitude greatly changed near the end of April.
2162
2163His self-assertiveness was just as strong as usual, however he did not feel the need to push it anymore.
2164
2165His ambitions and desire of taking over leadership was still present, however taking a good look at him, you could notice that his former complacent attitude had for the most part, totally vanished.
2166
2167Well, to begin with, his hot-blooded nature couldn’t be easily changed but he had come to a point where he could honestly apologize and reflect if you pointed out his mistakes.
2168
2169Above all, anyone could tell that he was putting in the effort to “change” and “grow up”, he thus garnered the sympathy and even trust from his classmates.
2170
2171It had accumulated to a point where during the Nine Schools Competition, he had spontaneously become the manager of the nine first years registered on First High’s team.
2172
2173Without any arrogance, he steadily increased his abilities. As of today, not only his classmates but also various seniors openly recognized his efforts.
2174
2175Honoka as well bore ill will towards Takuma at first, after the incident with Tatsuya. However, right now, she didn’t have a bad impression of him. She could humbly recognize that he was a promising junior.
2176
2177“Excuse me, I had an appointment with President Igarashi.”
2178
2179“With the President? There was a call just a few moments ago and he had to go out.”
2180
2181Honoka reported that she would be coming over just before going out of the Student Council Room. However, it seems like some sort of trouble had risen. Even though the former President Hattori’s efforts had been concentrated on abolishing the stigma that only top students could attain important posts, Igarashi seemed to have had a negative effect on peoples’ attitudes.
2182
2183Honoka thought it would be great if that was just a coincidence. Even though she shouldn’t be one to worry about others’ situation considering her own mental state, this was undeniably her good nature speaking. In that respect, Honoka couldn’t really complain about Igarashi.
2184
2185“Was it urgent business?”
2186
2187While Honoka thought it couldn’t be helped and started to go back, she was stopped by Takuma’s voice.
2188
2189“Yes but since he’s not present I thought I would come back later.”
2190
2191“Wait a moment please.”
2192
2193Was Takuma in charge of the communications, rather he took the wireless headset that had a microphone attached. It was a device that had integrated brain wave assistance. He put on the headset and turned towards the desktop terminal.
2194
2195“This is Headquarters, Shippou speaking. …Mitsui-san from the Student Council is here. …Yes, understood. I will transmit the message.”
2196
2197Takuma took off the headset and stood up, he then turned towards Honoka.
2198
2199“Mitsui-senpai, the President asked me to tell you to wait, if possible, as he is on his way.”
2200
2201“On his way… How long will it take?”
2202
2203“He wasn’t that precise but if we take past examples into account, I would say about five minutes.”
2204
2205Five minutes was roughly the amount of time it would take her to go back to the Student Council Room. Since she didn’t really want to go back there yet, Honoka decided to go along with Takuma’s recommendation and wait.
2206
2207(Still, these days, I did nothing but out of office work, the desk work must have been accumulating…)
2208
2209However, it was especially when she wasn’t doing anything that Honoka unintentionally cornered herself the most. This too, was because of her nature.
2210
2211(It would probably end in the blink of an eye if Tatsuya-san were to help… Though I can’t ask him, it would definitely be awkward…)
2212
2213(But, Miyuki is sure to handle the task… Even without me saying anything, and if she was to ask for Tatsuya-san’s help… Then, won’t they think that I am unneeded!?)
2214
2215Honoka made her face go pale by herself.
2216
2217“Um… Mitsui-senpai, are you feeling unwell?”
2218
2219If you were to look at her from the outside, then eight or nine times out of ten you’d reach that conclusion. Even if you were someone as self-centered as Takuma.
2220
2221“Eh!?”
2222
2223However, in her current state, of course the meaning of that question would fly over Honoka’s head. In the first place, she wasn’t so much thinking as she was being caught up in intense delusions, she wasn’t the type to be able to shelve these sort of thoughts instantly when someone interrupted her.
2224
2225“Really, it’s nothing.”
2226
2227Still, this reaction, no matter how you looked at it was just a bluff.
2228
2229Takuma thought so as well.
2230
2231And in his mind, he even added his own explanation.
2232
2233“Mitsui-senpai, how should I say this…”
2234
2235“Yes?”
2236
2237“Um… I fully understand that this is none of my business but, about the matter with Shiba-senpai…”
2238
2239“Wait a moment, Shippou-kun? Just what are you talking about?”
2240
2241A flustered Honoka tried to stop the words coming out of Takuma’s mouth.
2242
2243However, even if Takuma was wrong about Honoka’s condition, he certainly wouldn’t misunderstand the reason for her depressed attitude.
2244
2245It was precisely because he was right that Honoka was flustered. What Takuma was about to say, Honoka didn’t want to hear it.
2246
2247“I think you should give up on Shiba-senpai.”
2248
2249Despite that, Takuma had said it.
2250
2251“Stop!”
2252
2253“But at this rate, Senpai will suffer from it!”
2254
2255Takuma had changed his attitude these days, his behavior had greatly improved. Still, he hadn’t given up on his ambition just yet. He still had hope that as a promising Magician, by making Honoka his ally, he could get close to Shizuku eventually.
2256
2257But above all, Takuma was attracted to Honoka.
2258
2259It happened the day Takuma and Kasumi had gone overboard, which ended up with a fight between the Saegusa twins and himself. A lot of people had rebuked him, Honoka however had stretched a helping hand towards him. Speaking objectively, the only thing she did at the time was lean on him and ask “Can you stand?”, it wasn’t as if she had lent him her hand or anything.
2260
2261What started with the one-sided embellishment of that memory hadn’t yet bloomed into fully romantic feelings. They didn’t really have many occasions to talk to each other either so that description was appropriate.
2262
2263Though today, by chance, the two of them were all alone, and coincidentally, he also witnessed Honoka’s distress due to her unanswered feelings. You could say that Takuma short-circuited, he was running wild.
2264
2265“Senpai! I’m-!”
2266
2267Honoka closed her eyes and covered her ears with her hands.
2268
2269Takuma stretched his arm towards Honoka’s hands.
2270
2271“Shippou, what are you doing…?”
2272
2273However, that was as far as he would go. The voice of President Igarashi, who had just arrived at the Headquarters, stopped Takuma’s rampage.
2274
2275Igarashi was not alone. Shizuku walked out abruptly from behind him and stopped in front of Honoka, she buried Honoka’s head in her chest.
2276
2277“Shizuku…?”
2278
2279“Yeah.”
2280
2281Shizuku gently patted Honoka’s back several times to tell her that everything was alright now.
2282
2283The stiffness left Honoka’s body.
2284
2285Shizuku turned cold eyes towards Takuma while still holding Honoka.
2286
2287“What were you saying?”
2288
2289The tone of her voice was fitting for the look she was giving him.
2290
2291“Well, that’s…”
2292
2293Takuma had intended to finish his sentence that started with “I’m-” by saying “I’m worried about you!”.
2294
2295“Trying to seduce someone when they’re feeling down, you’re the worst.”
2296
2297Shizuku had accused him. Still, it wasn’t entirely wrong.
2298
2299The reason Takuma wasn’t able to answer was certainly because he himself was conscious of that.
2300
2301“Let’s go, Honoka?”
2302
2303Shizuku took Honoka out of the Club Management’s Headquarters.
2304
2305No word of protest came out of Takuma’s mouth.
2306
2307Igarashi, who had come to fulfill his promise, could do nothing but stand there dumbfounded.
2308
2309
2310
2311
2312
2313That day, Honoka didn’t return to her house. As usual they were coming home from school separately from Tatsuya and Miyuki, when they arrived at the station Honoka was ordered by Shizuku to stay at her house.
2314
2315She didn’t even ask if she was okay with it. It was a unilateral decision.
2316
2317It’s not like staying at Shizuku’s house was unpleasant or anything. She was aware of her own current indecisiveness and if she was left alone she would probably feel depressed very quickly, that is why Shizuku’s invitation was welcomed.
2318
2319She had dinner with Shizuku’s parents, who had hurried back home, and as usual they stepped in the bath together. However, once there, the usual chattering didn’t come out.
2320
2321What differed from usual was the fact that Shizuku took Honoka to her room afterwards.
2322
2323Honoka had her own room in the Kitayama Family’s house. Although it was just a guest room on paper, the reality was that this was a room for her use only. The interior matched Honoka’s tastes and you could even find her underwear in the closet.
2324
2325Though aside from that, there wasn’t much Honoka herself used in this room. When Honoka stayed overnight, she would usually hang around in Shizuku’s room, and even sleep there in fact. Today however, Shizuku took her towards “Honoka’s Room”.
2326
2327Honoka obediently sat on her bed, compared to just a few moments ago however, while she had been wearing a happy expression during dinner, a grim, painful one now floated on her face.
2328
2329Shizuku sat in front of her.
2330
2331She kneeled on the floor seiza-style.
2332
2333Of course, sitting on the bed, Honoka’s face was higher. Shizuku looked at the downcast, pained face of Honoka directly.
2334
2335“Honoka.”
2336
2337“I know…”
2338
2339Honoka tried to escape Shizuku’s look by looking even more downwards.
2340
2341“You’re probably pitying me right now…”
2342
2343With a trembling voice that threatened to turn into sobbing any minute, Honoka said so.
2344
2345“Even though I’m completely fine.”
2346
2347“But, you’re making such a face.”
2348
2349“Eh…?”
2350
2351Honoka lifted her head.
2352
2353Shizuku’s stare hadn’t changed from the time she sat on the floor, it was still fixed on Honoka.
2354
2355“Honoka, this entire week you wore such an expression.”
2356
2357“What kind of expression…?”
2358
2359“A crestfallen one.”
2360
2361Honoka couldn’t help but gape in shock.
2362
2363“It can’t be…”
2364
2365“Even worse than Shippou’s.”
2366
2367Without holding anything back, Shizuku pointed that out.
2368
2369“Everyone in your surroundings who’s looked at you has said the same.”
2370
2371“I don’t want that! I don’t want others to take pity on me!”
2372
2373“It doesn’t matter what Honoka thinks. They’re thinking like that for their own good.”
2374
2375Shizuku, firmly grasped both of Honoka’s hands away from covering her eyes, and she stared straight into her eyes.
2376
2377“They’re showing sympathy because they pity you, but doing so, they can reassure themselves that they’re not miserable.”
2378
2379“I’m… I’m not miserable!”
2380
2381“Hmm.”
2382
2383Shizuku nodded at the words Honoka managed to squeeze out.
2384
2385Honoka matched Shizuku’s gaze by her own volition.
2386
2387“I know that Honoka isn’t miserable. It’s just that everyone else doesn’t know that.”
2388
2389Shizuku had been looking at nothing but Honoka this entire time.
2390
2391“They don’t know about Honoka’s determination. They don’t know that Honoka is strong.”
2392
2393Honoka nodded with her eyes.
2394
2395“That’s because Honoka didn’t show them that she wasn’t miserable.”
2396
2397Shizuku released her hands and stood up.
2398
2399“Honoka.”
2400
2401This time, it was Shizuku who was looking from above.
2402
2403“Monday.”
2404
2405Honoka inhaled with a serious expression on her face.
2406
2407“Show me that there’s no reason for anyone to pity you.”
2408
2409Without waiting for either a “Yes” or a “No” from Honoka, Shizuku left the room.
2410
2411
2412
2413
2414
2415Sunday, January 13th. Tatsuya was going to FLT. The CAD Development Center, in other words the Third Division, wasn’t particularly different from usual despite today being a holiday.
2416
2417Even though as its name suggests, this place is mainly about CAD Development, Tatsuya wasn’t currently working on developing a CAD nor a software related to CADs.
2418
2419He was working on his Stellar Furnace, the energy providing resource, the design for the model plant of non-military Magic usage.
2420
2421The company wasn’t aware that Tatsuya started making such a thing.
2422
2423Mainly because he didn’t report about it. After all, Tatsuya wasn’t exactly an employee of FLT, he was a researcher currently under contract. Meaning, aside from confidentiality clauses he had to respect, he had quite a bit of freedom.
2424
2425Due to his position, Tatsuya benefitted from a private room at his disposition in the Third Division, so if he really wanted to do things secretly it was doable. Even Ushiyama, who is considered the second half of Taurus Silver, wasn’t aware of it yet.
2426
2427Nevertheless, the other members’ attitudes never changed.
2428
2429“Ah, good morning Young Master.”
2430
2431“Young Master, good morning.”
2432
2433While heading towards his private room, many people greeted Tatsuya.
2434
2435They were already aware of his identity as a member of the Yotsuba Family. That was because Tatsuya had already gathered all of them and publicly made that revelation known earlier this year.
2436
2437Still, their attitude didn’t change and they addressed him as usual “Young Master”. It seems like positions in the Third Division attracted people who turned their backs on authority, so it’s not surprising that learning he was part of the Yotsuba Family didn’t trigger any reaction beyond the “What of it”. Thanks to that, he could concentrate on his plans for his own project.
2438
2439The non-military Magic Usage Project (Extract both useful and harmful Substances from the Coastal Area of the Pacific using Electricity generated by the Stellar-generator), construction plan “ESCAPES”. It was the “means of escape” for Magicians from their fate as living weapons.
2440
2441At first, this Project was made as a means to “escape” from the Yotsuba Family’s influence and provide him with the means of living afterwards.
2442
2443Even though his motives were now slightly different as a part of the head family of the Yotsuba, it didn’t change the fact that it would be a large advancement for the non-military applications of magic. With the nuclear fusion reactor operated by magic, stable electricity and fuel can be produced. Moreover an important position in the industrial society can be secured just with the by-product of supplying mineral resources from the Sea. As a result, Magicians will be able to provide for themselves without being forced into the Military. That was the baseline thinking behind his project.
2444
2445The current sources of electrical power were natural energy such as the heat from sunlight, the force of the wind, the biomass. ——As a result of increased reliance on such renewable energy, modern industries had become extremely dependent on weather conditions.
2446
2447Of course, this was much preferable to a society dependent on fossil energy and nuclear fission energy. Especially for long-term development, it was crucial for mankind to actively protect the environment. However, it was undeniable that this provoked an unstable fuel delivery situation. The system behind orbital satellites equipped with photovoltaic solar panels was also one of the projects destined to lower this reliance on weather conditions for energy supply.
2448
2449The rough outline of Tatsuya’s Stellar Furnace was composed of four crucial points: The furnace itself produces Electricity. It then uses this electrical power and from its high temperatures creates hydrogen gas by electrolysis. Thus again using the electrical power of the furnace, fresh water is produced using reverse osmosis on sea water. The leftovers from the previous operation are thus highly concentrated sea water, in which useful resources as well as toxic substances can be extracted.
2450
2451Although, Tatsuya’s knowledge of industrial technology stayed at a High School Student level. It wouldn’t do any good to not cooperate with specialists for matters other than the Stellar Furnace itself. Even though the manufacturing of hydrogen gas and collection of all usable resources in sea water could be done directly with Magic, the responsibilities of Magicians would be too consequent. Using Magicians as part of the engineering process itself would be mistaking the means for the end, moreover it wasn’t what Tatsuya desired.
2452
2453(The ones who should approach the non-Magic Community should be the Magic Community itself. It will be easier to find partners if the Yotsuba name is used, moreover the opposition from the Magic Association will be avoided. So the problem will lie in making concrete arrangements.)
2454
2455The groundwork was already completed. The conceptual plans for the Stellar Furnace should be ready within 3 months, the baseline design could be expected within half a year. From then on, even Tatsuya had to admit that he would need cooperation.
2456
2457(It might be a little too fast considering I’m still only a High School Student…)
2458
2459He wouldn’t be able to find anyone willing to participate due to his young age. That was Tatsuya’s greatest cause for concern at the moment.
2460
2461
2462
2463
2464
2465Chapter 3
2466
2467
2468
2469
2470Wednesday morning, the second week of the new semester.
2471
2472“Good morning.”
2473
2474Having entered Class 2-E, Tatsuya received the morning’s greeting from Mizuki, who sat beside him as before.
2475
2476“Good morning, Mizuki.”
2477
2478Mizuki answered Tatsuya’s reciprocation with a smile. Except, her smile was a bit awkward.
2479
2480It would have been rather suspicious if she gave a natural smile, Tatsuya thought without a hint of doubt.
2481
2482He felt blessed that his friends would strain themselves nonchalantly trying to smile.
2483
2484There’s no mistaking, from Mizuki’s perspective at least, that she would prefer to keep her distance from a suspicious character such as himself, Tatsuya thought. Mizuki is not privy to the World of Magicians. She’s bound to dread the infamy of the Yotsuba Family more than one normally should. On top of that, here’s a suspicious character who’d been covering up his real identity for close to two years now. Even then, a normal girl like Mizuki has been trying to connect with him as a friend. Tatsuya is not irritated about this, rather he’s come to think it’s normal.
2485
2486He approached his own seat while wearing a faint smile on his lips.
2487
2488A sound echoed from the windows to the hallway that were right beside Tatsuya as he took his seat.
2489
2490“Good morning, Tatsuya-kun.”
2491
2492“Good morning, Erika.”
2493
2494It was Erika who spoke to him from the other side of the window. She wasn’t with Leo today, but Tatsuya didn’t point this out. He remembered the last time when Erika had gotten mad at him for treating them like a couple. Besides, it’s not like Erika and Leo were dating.
2495
2496Them not being together was not something strange in particular.
2497
2498“Good morning to you as well, Mizuki.”
2499
2500“Good morning, Erika-chan.”
2501
2502Erika gleefully nodded her head with a satisfied smile akin to a bright day in spring, no less than what Mizuki would normally do.
2503
2504With that smile alone, Tatsuya could tell that Erika’s meddling was intended to cheer Mizuki up. Even so,
2505
2506“What’s the matter, Erika? You seem energetic.”
2507
2508Tatsuya dared to ask.
2509
2510“Eh, it’s nothing.”
2511
2512Erika returned an answer that Tatsuya had expected.
2513
2514
2515
2516
2517
2518With the afternoon classes having ended, Miyuki got up from her seat and turned toward the Practical Building where Tatsuya was waiting.
2519
2520The Practical Building also had a meeting room for mass fighting instruction.
2521
2522And so, a week passed with them having lunch at a specific time to try and avoid attention. It had been pleasant for Miyuki to be alone with Tatsuya, but she felt lonely when she reminded herself of their relationship.
2523
2524“Miyuki.”
2525
2526Miyuki suddenly heard her name called from behind her, and she dashed onwards thinking she shouldn’t make Tatsuya wait.
2527
2528“Honoka, what’s the matter?”
2529
2530Honoka let out a noise.
2531
2532Her face was stiff with tension.
2533
2534Miyuki, despite wearing an unchanging expression this whole time, was also tense. It had been almost a week since her last exchange with Honoka that didn’t have to do with work.
2535
2536No, tense would be better applied to the state of Class 2-A who had fixed their eyes upon the two girls, making no sound.
2537
2538“Oh, this must be about that thing later this afternoon, right? Shall we go to the Student Council Room?”
2539
2540Miyuki had been unable to instantly craft a response. She wanted to make amends with Honoka, but she didn’t fathom that Honoka would meet her halfway.
2541
2542“Would it be alright if I went along with you?”
2543
2544Shizuku raised her voice from the side before it turned into an awkward situation where Miyuki’s silence could be interpreted as her refusal. That single utterance from Shizuku was hospitably received by both Miyuki and Honoka.
2545
2546“Alright, go ahead.”
2547
2548Miyuki wore a small yet bright smile and nodded to Honoka and Shizuku.
2549
2550
2551
2552
2553
2554Miyuki, Honoka and Shizuku had already made it to their seats by the time Tatsuya, who was contacted through his mobile terminal, had entered the Student Council Room.
2555
2556Neither of the girls had picked up their chopsticks yet. Miyuki hadn’t opened the lid of her bento box; Honoka and Shizuku hadn’t gotten anything in front of themselves yet either.
2557
2558“Onii-sama, thank you for waiting.”
2559
2560“Tatsuya-san, go ahead. Please, over here.”
2561
2562Miyuki and Honoka stood up to guide Tatsuya to his seat. It was located beside Miyuki’s and in front of Honoka’s. Shizuku also stood up, but she went to the dining server and took out trays for two which had been warming on standby.
2563
2564The four congenially started to eat. It was just Honoka and Shizuku who offered topics for conversation at the dining table, while Tatsuya and his sister never brought themselves to break the ice. It felt like Honoka and Shizuku were avoiding having a conversation about the Yotsuba Family.
2565
2566It was Tatsuya and Miyuki returning their bento boxes to their valises that broke the calm atmosphere. This was after Honoka and Shizuku had returned the trays to the dining server’s inlet, and Miyuki distributed tea to everyone.
2567
2568“Miyuki.”
2569
2570Standing up, her voice and expression betraying her stress, Honoka raised her voice.
2571
2572“What is it?”
2573
2574Miyuki, too, shed her smile and looked up at Honoka with a serious face.
2575
2576Shizuku gazed at the two of them intently from Honoka’s side.
2577
2578Tatsuya, too, silently observed the situation from Miyuki’s side.
2579
2580“Umm… Umm… I…”
2581
2582Honoka was wringing out words with a frantic expression.
2583
2584Miyuki, while waiting, had never averted her eyes from Honoka’s.
2585
2586“I won’t give up!”
2587
2588
2589
2590
2591
2592Miyuki, Tatsuya and Shizuku turned to Honoka. To ascertain Honoka’s intentions, and to see Honoka’s resolve with their own eyes.
2593
2594“I will not give up on Tatsuya-san!”
2595
2596Honoka successfully spoke her feelings without faltering, even with everyone’s eyes fixated on her.
2597
2598“I will not yield.”
2599
2600Miyuki responded without a moment’s delay.
2601
2602She then courtly stood up and held her right hand out to Honoka.
2603
2604That hand was in a position that demanded it be shaken.
2605
2606“I will definitely not be defeated.”
2607
2608Honoka gripped Miyuki’s hand. Her competitive spirit was showing through her face.
2609
2610Miyuki showed a smile. Though it was much more than just a “smile”, it was the manifestation of her aggression and competitiveness.
2611
2612Tatsuya tried to put on a bitter smile, but it failed miserably. The two women in front of him just declared rivalry over his affections. It was only natural that he would be dumbfounded in regards to what expression he should make.
2613
2614Shizuku, on the other hand, was more expressionless than usual. No, since she was always bereft of changes in her expression, we can’t say she was “now” expressionless. Rather, this time she deliberately rid herself of expression.
2615
2616Speaking of one’s true feelings, Shizuku hoped Honoka would immediately give up on Tatsuya. But Honoka chose the path of battling it out with Miyuki on her journey to Tatsuya’s heart. She frowned at the thought that Honoka would choose such a harsh, thorny path—a frown which Shizuku endured for dear life.
2617
2618
2619
2620
2621
2622After school in the Student Council Room, things were progressing with the friendly attitude that existed before the announcement. Izumi and Minami noticed this minute change, but neither wanted to investigate into the reason why. They were relieved that the tense atmosphere had abated, which showed through their facial expressions and actions.
2623
2624However, they weren’t the type of people that would just act carefully.
2625
2626That would put them in the minority in High School.
2627
2628“Hey, Izumi. Doesn’t the atmosphere feel sort of different from usual?”
2629
2630Kasumi had come up the stairs since it was nearly time for the school gate to close. She had stealthily gotten close to Izumi——and asked in a fairly loud voice.
2631
2632“Is that so? Everything seems normal to me, Kasumi-chan.”
2633
2634With a calm expression on her face, Izumi responded with an intensity that was difficult to oppose.
2635
2636Sensing that she had somehow angered Izumi, despite not understanding why, Kasumi nodded lightly and dropped the subject.
2637
2638“Huh? …Uh, yeah.”
2639
2640Having also just come up from the Public Morals Committee Headquarters, Mikihiko’s reaction was slightly more guarded than Kasumi’s.
2641
2642“What’s the matter?”
2643
2644His reaction was even greater when hearing Tatsuya’s voice,
2645
2646“No, it’s nothing.”
2647
2648He was responding in the same way he had prior to Winter Break. ——It was different from last week.
2649
2650Tatsuya had thought that Mikihiko got yelled at by Erika. Tatsuya thought so, but of course he didn’t say this.
2651
2652Despite that, he couldn’t help the fact that his lips were trembling.
2653
2654“What’s the matter, Tatsuya? Did something good happen.”
2655
2656“Yeah. But, it’s nothing important.”
2657
2658Yes, it was nothing important. It was definitely a “good thing.” For Miyuki, and for himself.
2659
2660Having reached that conclusion, Tatsuya decided to change the mood.
2661
2662“Moreover, show me today’s report.”
2663
2664“Alright. It’s no problem if I show it to you while we’re at school.”
2665
2666Tatsuya quickly looked over the e-reader that Mikihiko gave him, and entered his hard key for the Student Association confirmation signature.
2667
2668“Has some kind of trouble started outside of the school?”
2669
2670Tatsuya asked as such when he returned the e-reader to Mikihiko.
2671
2672Mikihiko had agreed to show him “at school” which had drawn Tatsuya’s attention.
2673
2674“Yes… after those candid photographs, the number of students following us has increased.”
2675
2676“Stalkers?”
2677
2678Unaware, this was the first time Tatsuya had heard of it. His hands had been full lately and he had eyes only for what was directly around him.
2679
2680“You could call them stalkers… it seems to be a ‘Humanist’ Organization.”
2681
2682“You’re saying the students at this school have become the target of an anti-Magician organization?”
2683
2684Tatsuya’s eyes glimmered sharply.
2685
2686Mikihiko had also drawn the attention of Miyuki and Honoka as they were preparing to head home.
2687
2688“It looks like no students have been threatened or assaulted yet. That being said, ever since the group formed, some students have reported being verbally abused.”
2689
2690Mikihiko answered Tatsuya’s question in a provocative tone.
2691
2692“Minami-chan.”
2693
2694Returning to her designated President’s seat, Miyuki spoke to Minami.
2695
2696“Yes, President.”
2697
2698Minami stood up and moved to stand in front of Miyuki. However, Miyuki stopped her in place with her gaze.
2699
2700“Regarding the case we heard from the Public Morals Committee Chairman, has the Student Council noticed it?”
2701
2702“One moment please.”
2703
2704In response to Miyuki’s question, Minami hit the switch on her desktop terminal that she had already shut down. Contrary to how information systems from half-a-century ago worked, it booted up near-instantly.
2705
2706The operating system appeared on the screen immediately.
2707
2708Minami entered a search term and then read out the results that were displayed.
2709
2710“The number of people and events discussed at the Student Council includes 24 people spanning a total of 38 events. They’re already reporting these to the police, but there are no reports of any concrete crackdowns being reported.”
2711
2712“They’re ignoring it!?”
2713
2714Honoka had raised her voice as if to say “I can’t believe it” in response to the facts Minami had read out loud.
2715
2716“They may be speaking rashly, but a crackdown would be difficult.”
2717
2718Shizuku replied with a sigh.
2719
2720“Despite the candid photographs, it’s difficult to present evidence of stalking.”
2721
2722Mikihiko muttered irritably.
2723
2724If it had been like the obvious enemy in the Yokohama Incident, they could easily counter-attack and crush them. But they had no way of counter-attacking a divided, vague attack coming from among the otherwise virtuous townspeople. If they raised a finger, they would be branded criminals. To begin with, they had no idea who the enemy was, or even how to defeat them.
2725
2726“We should likely urge all students to be careful. Be on the lookout for any direct assaults and also be careful not to overreact at risk of appearing to be in the wrong. Or rather, so that you are not branded a criminal.”
2727
2728“Understood. I will handle it immediately.”
2729
2730Tatsuya had shown concern in response to Miyuki’s reaction.
2731
2732
2733
2734
2735
2736Saturday, January 19th. The end of the second week of the new school term.
2737
2738Morning lectures were over, and now it was time for club and committee activities.
2739
2740Kasumi and Izumi had previously dropped by the dining hall to replenish their energy. Izumi had wanted to eat lunch with Miyuki in the Student Council Room, but she couldn’t resist Kasumi who had insisted on a whim “We should eat together once in a while.”
2741
2742Kasumi and Izumi were both popular among the Year 1 students. No, they also boasted high popularity with the Year 2 and 3 students, but they were especially popular people to the Year 1 group. The twins weren’t the type to be very helpful so they couldn’t form factions like the “Kasumi Army” or “Izumi Guard”, but at the same time they were unrelated to any factional disputes so they were adored as though they were “Everyone’s Idols”. It left a stark contrast compared with Takuma who steadily formed the “Shippou Group” because of his outgoing assistance.
2743
2744Kasumi and Izumi didn’t normally have anybody in particular who followed them around so it wasn’t difficult for them to keep to themselves. On the other hand, when it came to lunch, they had continually accumulated a group of Year 1 students with their lunch trays in hand.
2745
2746What stood out about the two was that the students who came close to them were mostly girls. That said, boys weren’t intimidated by them like they were by Miyuki, so the boys could express affection for them much like they would for a mascot.
2747
2748For that reason, although they constantly had lots of people around them, not a single one would interrupt them when they were talking. Under these circumstances, the two of them engaged in unrestrained conversations while slurping their noodles.
2749
2750Izumi ate, true to her proper image, but Kasumi also ate carefully. She slowly cut her kakiage into bite-sized pieces and ate them with good manners. She never talked with food in her mouth which meant her pace was fairly slow. Without a doubt, this calm lunch scene made it hard to guess what they were talking about.
2751
2752“In these last two or three days, the atmosphere at school has become really gloomy, hasn’t it.”
2753
2754“Those rumors about Shiba-senpai and Miyuki-senpai? It’s going to be a real problem if senrou people like them run around making a fuss all the time.”
2755
2756“…What’s does ‘senrou’ mean?”
2757
2758“It means abject.”
2759
2760“Ah, you mean they should keep their lowly curiosity in check and not make a fuss all the time, right?”
2761
2762“If you want to be direct about it, yes.”
2763
2764“Then you should have said that in the first place.”
2765
2766“I don’t even call my classmates ‘lowly’, much less an upperclassman. I believe every student at this school are proper gentlemen and ladies.”
2767
2768“I said the same thing you did, but you need to be less cruel, Izumi.”
2769
2770“That isn’t true, Kasumi-chan. I simply think while nobody’s true character is ‘lowly’, occasionally they become delusional when obsessed with such base things.”
2771
2772Izumi, having said that with an unruffled expression, picked up the rice bowl that she had placed on her tray. (Inside: the lunch menu has small/medium/large sizes for lunches.)
2773
2774“Well, I don’t think you should hide your real feelings with complicated words.”
2775
2776Kasumi had quietly muttered this while Izumi was focused on her hands.
2777
2778If she didn’t let off any steam during conversations with Izumi, even though she knew her twin sister’s true character, things would become too tense for her.
2779
2780“Kasumi-chan, did you say something?”
2781
2782But her timing had been a little too quick, and Izumi raised her face as she was putting her chopsticks in her rice bowl.
2783
2784“No, I didn’t say anything.”
2785
2786Kasumi said so, while picking up her rice bowl as Izumi had done.
2787
2788Kasumi slurped her soba with a little more enthusiasm than Izumi. With her brows furrowed at her twin sister, Izumi also moved her chopsticks.
2789
2790Having used her manners as a shield to redirect the conversation, Kasumi set her bowl down and spoke to Izumi as though nothing had happened.
2791
2792“By the way, how do you feel about the Student Council Room? I only had a glance but it looks like they’ve made it peaceful again.”
2793
2794“Although they are only slightly different from us, I believe all involved parties are adults.”
2795
2796Izumi had answered Kasumi’s question in a not-entirely-complimentary tone of voice.
2797
2798“I think Mitsui-senpai in particular has a lot of good things about her… Miyuki-senpai and Shiba-senpai are both excellent at behaving themselves as well.”
2799
2800“Hmm… Well, the President has reined in how clingy she is with Shiba-senpai, and it looks like she’s finally paying attention to other people.”
2801
2802Izumi had knit her face at the words “clingy”, but Kasumi was indisputably correct.
2803
2804“No matter how close you are as friends, ignoring each other will cause you to drift apart for sure.”
2805
2806“Even close friends have to be courteous, right?”
2807
2808“Correct. Disregarding the fact that plenty of people lack that level of intimacy, rather, they look down on it, and prefer to amuse themselves by spreading irresponsible rumors. It can lead to an inevitable drop in the overall relationship.”
2809
2810Izumi stopped for a moment, then added as though remembering something.
2811
2812“At the utmost, that’s a general rule.”
2813
2814Kasumi and Izumi’s classmates all hung their heads and huddled up.
2815
2816
2817
2818
2819
2820Around the same time——well, it was actually a fair amount of time thereafter——the Magic University’s cafeteria was thronged with students.
2821
2822Mixed among them are students who are visiting from the National Defense Academy’s “Special Warfare Research” course. Out of all these students, two girls were facing each other, a normal student and a magical officer trainee. There wasn’t a real difference in how the two students looked, just glancing them over wouldn’t help. The officer’s brilliant smile was making it difficult to tell if she was a normal or Magic University student.
2823
2824“Hey Mari! You don’t have to laugh like that, do you?”
2825
2826“Sorry. But still, him and you…”
2827
2828Watanabe Mari, a visiting student and the former Chairwoman of the First High School Disciplinary Committee, apologized as she continued to suppress her laughter. Opposite of her was Saegusa Mayumi, the former First High School Student Council President, her face blushing red and her eyes glaring into Mari’s.
2829
2830The blush on her face was not out of anger but of embarrassment. She glowered at Mari with teary eyes, yet they did not feel threatening at all.
2831
2832“Hey!”
2833
2834“No, I’m really sorry.”
2835
2836In the end, it was Mayumi’s sulking and turning away that made Mari stop laughing.
2837
2838“Are you seriously telling me that the Head of the Saegusa Family wants to make you and Tatsuya-kun marry?”
2839
2840“It’s an engagement! Not marriage!”
2841
2842Keeping her face averted and her arms crossed, Mayumi snapped at Mari’s statement.
2843
2844Mari suddenly asked herself how that was supposed be different, but she decided to keep those words to herself.
2845
2846“Well then, why are we even talking about Mayumi and Tatsuya-kun’s marriage?”
2847
2848The Magic University is more flexible in regards to breaks and lunches than the National Defense Academy. At the same time, it’s not like the students can have lunch as long as they want. Mari decided to move on to the main topic.
2849
2850“You heard about it as well, Mari?”
2851
2852This conversation was originally started by Mayumi, who wanted to voice her idle complaints. Still sulking, she realized that their respective breaks were almost over, and her face regained a serious expression.
2853
2854“Is this about the Yotsuba Family? Well, I can’t say I expected it, but it’s also not that surprising.”
2855
2856In this case, expecting and being surprised are two completely different things, but Mayumi did not press her to make up her mind. She felt the same way as Mari after all.
2857
2858“How much did you know about this, Mari?”
2859
2860“How much… Those siblings are actually cousins and direct descendants of the Yotsuba Family. And wasn’t Shiba appointed as the next Head of the Yotsuba Family and hasn’t Tatsuya-kun been engaged with Shiba? Isn’t that all there is to it?”
2861
2862Mayumi closed her eyes and shook her head to Mari’s doubtful inquiry.
2863
2864“That’s all that was publicized. There’s more to the story, you know.”
2865
2866Mayumi leaned toward the table.
2867
2868Having lured Mayumi, Mari brought her face closer.
2869
2870“The day after the Yotsuba Family announced Tatsuya-kun and Miyuki-san’s engagement, the Ichijou Family raised their objection to the engagement.”
2871
2872“Objection to the engagement?”
2873
2874It was as if Mari’s face was asking, “Can they do that?” Mayumi hinted a forced smile.
2875
2876“They said they’re too related by blood that there is a risk the marriage would harm magician genetics, which is an invaluable resource of the country.”
2877
2878“They said ‘resource’ now?”
2879
2880Mari looked stunned. This way of thinking, which is quite contentious even within the Ten Master Clans, would sound like a suspicious excuse by the Hundred Families to Magicians not in the know.
2881
2882Mari’s conclusion is most likely correct. Rather, it’s spot on. “Resource”, in this context, is being used synonymously with property. Calling a person’s genes “property” makes that person no different than livestock.
2883
2884One wrong step could lead this whole situation into a dangerous political mess of placing genes above all else.
2885
2886“I can never find myself to like that aspect of the Ten Master Clans.”
2887
2888“If I were to choose between saying whether I like it or not, I’d go for the latter, but this decision is for the greater good. Even so, I won’t consent to them meddling with my private life, such as this whole engagement business.”
2889
2890“Is there anything else?”
2891
2892As the topic approached the climax, Mayumi let out a sigh.
2893
2894“The Ichijou Family raised their objection, citing close blood relations as their grounds. At the same time, they proposed Miyuki-san’s engagement with their eldest son, Masaki-kun, to the Yotsuba Family.”
2895
2896“I don’t know whether they’re just shameless, or insensitive…”
2897
2898Looking at Mari who had turned speechless, Mayumi shrugged her shoulders.
2899
2900“But surely a marriage between Miyuki-san and Masaki-kun would be more preferable than one between Tatsuya-kun and Miyuki-san. They just have to ignore the feelings of the people personally involved.”
2901
2902“So, this would be what they call a marriage of convenience, which the magical community is celebrated for.”
2903
2904Mari thought of it more as the mating of thoroughbred livestock more than a marriage of convenience, but she hesitated describing it as such.
2905
2906“That’s true, but… I don’t think it’s purely out of the convenience for the families. I mean, Masaki-kun is the eldest son, so normally he would be in the position to accept a bride.”
2907
2908Having gone as far as to say it, Mayumi turned her eyes away for some reason as if a little embarrassed.
2909
2910“The Ichijou Family’s display of bravado is because Masaki-kun likes Miyuki-san, I think.”
2911
2912“…Oh.”
2913
2914Mari, who was frowning just earlier, grinned wilily as if she had just discovered something groundbreaking.
2915
2916“So that’s it. …Your Father is trying to make you marry because you like Tatsuya-kun. Is that it?”
2917
2918“No, it’s not!”
2919
2920Mayumi’s face turned red as she hit the table with both of her hands.
2921
2922There was no mistaking the disruption field in place around them was the only thing preventing the entire school cafeteria from looking at them. Mayumi’s reaction had been that fierce.
2923
2924“That sly dog just got it wrong! He’s just trying to use me to annoy the Yotsuba Family!”
2925
2926“Really now?”
2927
2928“Why do you look so unconvinced!? I’m really the one being inconvenienced here!”
2929
2930“So you would rather not?”
2931
2932Mayumi was rendered speechless, without her even realizing it, by Mari’s quick questioning.
2933
2934Mari raised both ends of her lips as if to show she had got it all according to plan.
2935
2936Impelled by the sense that she is in danger of actually acknowledging Mari’s words, Mayumi forced her frozen tongue to move.
2937
2938“It’s not that I would rather not, but… But I just can’t see Tatsuya-kun that way. I can’t imagine being engaged to Tatsuya-kun.”
2939
2940“Why is that?”
2941
2942Mari attacked without delay.
2943
2944“Why you say—”
2945
2946“Surely Saegusa Mayumi won’t make a good match with Shiba Tatsuya.
2947
2948However, the story changed when he became a direct descendant of the Yotsuba Family. He is not unqualified to become the husband of the eldest daughter of the Saegusa Family, both in terms of blood relations and power.”
2949
2950“I mean, Tatsuya-kun is even two years younger than me!?”
2951
2952“I don’t think an age difference of just two years would be a big problem though. …Does he even look younger than you to begin with? You look younger than Tatsuya-kun from my point of view.”
2953
2954“How rude! If you’re going to say that, then you don’t look any much older than him, you know!”
2955
2956“In what universe do I look younger than Tatsuya-kun?”
2957
2958“ ‘Oh, I can’t do this,’ ‘Oh, the terminal isn’t working right,’ ‘Oh, it won’t print out a report.’ You’re always just cozying up to Tatsuya-kun! Actually, isn’t it you who likes Tatsuya-kun more!?”
2959
2960“I have Shuu, you know!”
2961
2962“That’s not a reason to like or not like Tatsuya-kun, now is it!”
2963
2964Mayumi and Mari glared at each other face to face, then immediately averted their eyes.
2965
2966Both their faces were red. Normally, this would be the scene where they would exchange empty smiles, and move on to a completely different topic from their petty argument.
2967
2968However, that didn’t happen this time.
2969
2970Mari ended up flustered from their exchange of inflammatory words, but she immediately recovered her serious composure. A smile could be seen on Mari’s face as her eyes once again fell upon Mayumi.
2971
2972“Mayumi, what do you really want to do?”
2973
2974Mayumi, surprised by Mari’s unimaginably serious voice, looked back at Mari.
2975
2976“What’s with you all of a sudden?”
2977
2978Mari stared at Mayumi fixedly. That face could not possibly be joking.
2979
2980“It doesn’t benefit Tatsuya-kun’s sister, but is also holds no real downsides for you, Mayumi.”
2981
2982“What’re you getting at? I mean, I don’t think of Tatsuya-kun as anyone special…”
2983
2984“You don’t have to say any more. Just shut up and listen.”
2985
2986Having heard Mari’s strong words, Mayumi stopped making up excuses.
2987
2988“I intend to know why you haven’t had a boyfriend up until now. Regarding your lacking pursuit of a relationship between you and the eldest sons of the Juumonji or Itsuwa Families, I understand that it’s a modest protest against the future that was decided for you.”
2989
2990Mayumi didn’t object to Mari’s statement. It wasn’t that Mari hit the mark with her words, but Mayumi wanted to listen to everything Mari had to say first.
2991
2992“Didn’t you always tell me you never looked at Juumonji as a possible boyfriend? Is that because he’s the type of partner who would notice right away? Juumonji has always been a fellow Magician from the Juumonji Family to you, not even a fellow student. That’s why he sees you as Mayumi, the eldest daughter of the Saegusa Family, not someone who came from an all-girl’s school.”
2993
2994Mayumi listened to Mari’s words without saying a word nor showing a reaction. Her expression was reminiscent of a Noh mask.
2995
2996“You’re looking at him to see if he’s suitable as a member of the Ten Master Clans, not if he’s suitable as a partner. There’s no way feelings of love would arise like that. Respect, maybe, but not love.”
2997
2998Mari continued to speak, not paying attention to Mayumi’s lack of response.
2999
3000“But Tatsuya-kun is different, isn’t he? You were first introduced as someone older than him, and gradually came to like him, and then found out he was from the Ten Master Clans. I would like to consider my usage of like to mean affection towards the opposite sex, but I wouldn’t go so far as to imply it. However, you at least like him. Am I wrong?”
3001
3002“You are not wrong. I don’t think my liking of Tatsuya-kun is love, but everything else is as you said.”
3003
3004Mayumi answered disinterestedly; Mari nodded.
3005
3006“Incidentally, the person that you like is the person that they allowed to date the eldest daughter of the Saegusa Family. This would be your first experience.”
3007
3008“Hmm, that’s right.”
3009
3010“Well then, what’s your first step? No, wait, that’s not how this should be asked. Mayumi.”
3011
3012“What?”
3013
3014“Do you just want to wait without doing anything? Or do you actually want to do something?”
3015
3016“I don’t want to be passive, but what can I do?”
3017
3018“I want to tell you, ‘Find the answer yourself,’ but yeah. Well, here’s an idea; you have the chance to confirm how you really feel about Tatsuya-kun.”
3019
3020Mayumi said, “I know,” then she stopped.
3021
3022“What do you mean by that?”
3023
3024“If you know if you have feelings for Tatsuya-kun, you can align your interests with your father’s. You can act like you are being used by your father, but in reality it’d be you who’s actually using him.”
3025
3026“Using that sly dog, you say… That’s tempting.”
3027
3028Mayumi stopped short of hinting at an evil smile without realizing it.
3029
3030“…But that would involve a lot of work.”
3031
3032“You’ll know that once you actually try dating him, now won’t you?”
3033
3034“Date someone I don’t like? Rather, someone I’m not sure I like or not?”
3035
3036Realizing they had almost gone full circle with the denial, Mayumi surrendered and spoke her thoughts.
3037
3038“That wouldn’t be too weird, would it? Isn’t that a common saying? ‘Let’s start by being friends,’ or something along those lines?”
3039
3040“That’s not what you’d say to someone you don’t really know. We’re bound to start out as friends with our current relationship. And just what do I do when that fails? Say I dated him, and we went straight to being engaged. I can’t back off with just ‘Turns out being lovers won’t work out’ after going through all of that!”
3041
3042“So that’s how it is?”
3043
3044“Of course!”
3045
3046“I see… Well then, it seems your only choice is to date Tatsuya-kun without his sister finding out.”
3047
3048“How did you even reach that conclusion!?”
3049
3050“Didn’t you want to confirm it for yourself? How you feel about Tatsuya-kun?”
3051
3052“I told you that wasn’t the case…”
3053
3054“Well then, why are you discussing this with me?”
3055
3056Mayumi’s expression froze.
3057
3058“Haven’t you always come to me when you’re troubled? Even though it may be your first time dating someone who’s already engaged, isn’t being unable to solve this on your own the problem? If you think hard enough, shouldn’t you have just declined the proposal? Since he’s already engaged, the situation is borderline impossible as it stands.”
3059
3060
3061
3062
3063
3064“…I did decline. But that sly dog would keep bringing it up again and again.”
3065
3066“Your father probably has seen through that, you know. The fact you don’t really object to it.”
3067
3068“……”
3069
3070“Mayumi. At this rate, you’d just end up going with the flow, indecisive until the end.”
3071
3072“Even if you say that…”
3073
3074Mayumi was stumped. She might break down if she went any further than this. Mari pretentiously turned her eyes to the multifunctional military watch wrapped around her left wrist.
3075
3076“——Our time’s up. Mayumi, you should properly think it over.”
3077
3078“Yeah. …Thank you, Mari.”
3079
3080Mari stood up while Mayumi also nonchalantly left her seat.
3081
3082
3083
3084
3085
3086Tatsuya who had just arrived at home saw he had mail, which was unusual and forced a frown out of him. It wasn’t an email, but rather a discrete communication using the message board for First High’s students and alumni.
3087
3088The sender was Mari.
3089
3090Tatsuya thought that she might have sent it to the wrong person, but he couldn’t check that without opening the letter. He also thought of opening it using a trick to prevent the read receipt, but it would lead to a more cumbersome after effect. He wouldn’t mind if he didn’t have to meet Mari afterwards, but that didn’t seem to be the case.
3091
3092Even though he had a hunch this would lead to a meddlesome situation, he opened the message.
3093
3094The first thing he concluded was the message was, indeed, for him.
3095
3096The message started out as a simple seasonal greeting, asking about his recent condition, and how he had been doing as of late. It was unexpectedly written in a polite manner. It was probably the result of her military education.
3097
3098The heart of the mail was very simple.
3099
3100It was merely a question of whether they could meet the following night.
3101
3102It would be a good idea to keep this a secret.
3103
3104Well, normally that would be the case, but now that he had a fiancée, he needed her permission to meet a girl alone.
3105
3106Without sending a reply, he knocked on the door leading to the room next to his.
3107
3108“Watanabe-senpai said she wants to meet with Onii-sama?”
3109
3110Tatsuya saw abundant suspicion in Miyuki’s expression. If it was just a little flicker of doubt, he would write it off as an inevitability, but being distrusted to this extent was totally unexpected.
3111
3112“I’m as surprised as you are about this sudden invitation. The last time I saw her was during the graduation ceremony.”
3113
3114Tatsuya was nonchalantly playing the innocent.
3115
3116“Then what is her intention with this?”
3117
3118Miyuki didn’t think that Tatsuya was cheating on her, it was actually Mari who she was doubting.
3119
3120Tatsuya (in Miyuki’s perspective) is a very attractive man. Even though it was known that Mari has a boyfriend, Tatsuya would be a very desirable partner to have in an affair (again, in Miyuki’s perspective).
3121
3122“It isn’t a love affair.”
3123
3124He wasn’t only aware of what his sister was thinking, but he also frankly expressed that he saw through her.
3125
3126Miyuki’s face quickly became red.
3127
3128While observing his innocent sister, Tatsuya feigned ignorance and continued speaking.
3129
3130“Chiba Naotsugu-san is a good lover for Watanabe-senpai.”
3131
3132“…She might have had a fight with him.”
3133
3134Miyuki hid her embarrassment by stating her opinion with a disgruntled tone.
3135
3136“If she just wanted to grumble, she would have called Saegusa-senpai, right?”
3137
3138Miyuki’s easy to understand behavior made Tatsuya chuckle during their exchange.
3139
3140“…No, actually, it’s the opposite.”
3141
3142Taken by surprise, she put on a serious, albeit dazzling, expression.
3143
3144“The opposite… So that means Saegusa-senpai vented to Watanabe-senpai?”
3145
3146Tatsuya put on a completely serious expression and nodded back to Miyuki’s question.
3147
3148“It isn’t limited to just Watanabe-senpai. If a First High alumni had something to discuss, considering what’s happened recently, it would most likely be about the Yotsuba Family matter.”
3149
3150“Ah, that’s right.”
3151
3152There are also people who give suggestions without considering the time or place, and merely say it for their own convenience. Miyuki’s first thoughts went to that by reflex, but she also understood that there are some exceptions to this.
3153
3154“Even if you think about it, I’m going to ignore the exceptions we can’t do anything about.”
3155
3156Miyuki’s thoughts were plainly seen through again by Tatsuya.
3157
3158“……”
3159
3160Miyuki’s white skin became vermillion again.
3161
3162Without concerning himself with her looking at the floor, Tatsuya continued his reasoning.
3163
3164“If I were to guess as to who will take action regarding the notification given by the Yotsuba Family, the most likely culprits would be those from the Ten Master Clans. I assume that Saegusa-senpai was dragged into a scheme conceived by the Head of the Saegusa Family. Then, the puzzled Saegusa-senpai went to Watanabe-senpai for advice. Considering their relationship, this invitation isn’t a mystery at all.”
3165
3166“It can’t be!”
3167
3168Miyuki vigorously lifted up her face which still had a tinge of red to it.
3169
3170Intense anxiety surfaced on her face.
3171
3172“Why are you panicking like that?”
3173
3174He couldn’t understand why Miyuki got panicked, because of that Tatsuya paused his reasoning and asked why.
3175
3176“Could it be that… the Saegusa Family is scheming to make Onii-sama Senpai’s fiancée?”
3177
3178Miyuki’s thought took Tatsuya by surprise. This would definitely warrant her concern.
3179
3180“…No matter how you look at it, isn’t that progressing a little too quick?”
3181
3182Of course it wasn’t an impossibility, but Tatsuya was of the mindset it wouldn’t happen even if the chance was there. Mayumi’s nature wasn’t one that would be obediently married as a political piece.
3183
3184“I wonder…”
3185
3186Miyuki and Mayumi shared that trait, neither would readily become a puppet of their own parent. But if Mayumi shared her father’s decision——it would be a whole different story.
3187
3188“No, it isn’t like that.”
3189
3190To shake off her anxiety, she spoke words of denial to herself.
3191
3192“So then Onii-sama, what are you going to do with Watanabe-senpai’s invitation?”
3193
3194“I don’t have the luxury of ignoring it. Plus, I’m curious about why she went through so much trouble to contact me.”
3195
3196Tatsuya nuanced his words to mean “there is no other way” so he could avoid distressing Miyuki.
3197
3198
3199
3200
3201
3202The next day, in the afternoon at 5:55 P.M., Tatsuya visited a café near the National Defense Academy’s Special War Skills Research Department’s auxiliary building.
3203
3204To make it brief, the Special War Skill Research Department is a course with a curriculum for Magicians focused on research and also training for combat Magicians. They conduct a lot of joint research and also have a secondary building near the Magic University.
3205
3206The Special War Skill Research Department’s students have been exempted from a dormitory lifestyle. Even so, Mari made the location for their appointment to be near the school building due to military drills they have on Sunday.
3207
3208Tatsuya arrived 5 minutes before the meeting time. Then at 5:59 P.M., he saw Mari’s figure.
3209
3210“Hey, sorry to make you wait. It’s been a while Tatsuya-kun.”
3211
3212“Yes, it has.”
3213
3214Under the coat, Mari was wearing plain clothes. Her pants-suit combo wasn’t rare in the university, nor in government or company offices.
3215
3216Chances are that she got it from the National Defense Academy, and it was a uniform.
3217
3218“I rented a room in this area.”
3219
3220Mari gave an explanation when she noticed Tatsuya gazing at her clothing. It seems she picked this place not because of being near the school, but rather that it was conveniently close to her place.
3221
3222“That’s right, we also had a drill today too… I feel bad for calling you out at this hour.”
3223
3224“Let’s ignore that for now. What’s your business with me?”
3225
3226Tatsuya wasn’t trying to push Mari away. Just like she had said, it was quite late for a man and woman to be meeting. Since they were close to the National Defense Academy, it wasn’t a strange sight to see students visiting this place… But to avoid misunderstandings, they decided to finish their matters quickly.
3227
3228“That’s right. We both have classes tomorrow, so let’s save the idle chatter for next time.”
3229
3230After stating her piece, she ordered a hot coffee from the terminal on top of the shop’s desk.
3231
3232“But I’d rather not leave with just having water. Please wait a little bit.”
3233
3234Just as Mari said, she didn’t say anything until her drink arrived. She was planning her words during the lull.
3235
3236By happenstance, the shop they were meeting at wasn’t an “old school” shop. It didn’t even take a minute from ordering for the completion ring to sound out. Mari came back from the counter and sat in front of Tatsuya, suddenly moving her face close to his.
3237
3238“Tatsuya, what do you think about Mayumi?”
3239
3240Without any preface, she whispered a question.
3241
3242“I think she’s a great Magician. She has talent, and also experience. As for her life and stature, she can separate them well. I have a good impression of her because of that.”
3243
3244In spite of that sudden question, Tatsuya answered it without any hesitation.
3245
3246“…You know, I hate that part of you.”
3247
3248Mari glared at Tatsuya with an annoyed expression. She could tell that he knew what she was getting at, even if he put on a face feigning ignorance.
3249
3250Tatsuya reacted to Mari’s glare without faltering. She didn’t even put her drink down.
3251
3252“Why do you want to know about something like that?”
3253
3254Tatsuya’s expression changed to a frown as he fired a question back.
3255
3256Mari didn’t answer Tatsuya.
3257
3258“I’m gonna ask again. What do you think of Mayumi as someone of the opposite gender? Do you like her? Do you dislike her? Please answer seriously.”
3259
3260“As someone of a different gender, it can’t be explained in such black and white terms.”
3261
3262“Even so, I want to hear it.”
3263
3264Tatsuya didn’t have any obligation to answer Mari’s question. With Tatsuya’s current situation, answering would bring him more trouble than merit.
3265
3266“I will say that I like her.”
3267
3268But he still answered. Not because of the pressure the girl in front of him was putting out, but rather out of curiosity as to what would come next.
3269
3270“As someone of the opposite sex right?”
3271
3272“Yes.”
3273
3274“I see…”
3275
3276Tatsuya didn’t have any sensibility on the feeling of “liking someone from the opposite gender.” It wasn’t within the extent of his limited emotional processing. Affection for a member of the opposite sex was of far lower priority than his fondness towards Miyuki. But he didn’t have to explain any of that to Mari.
3277
3278“Is that affection considered love?”
3279
3280“It is not. If I must say it, these feelings are more like sexual desire.”
3281
3282Tatsuya showed no embarrassment when delivering that line. Mari, on the other hand, was blushing.
3283
3284“Y-you have that kind of desire as well, huh?”
3285
3286“Mari was quite inexperienced on this topic,” Tatsuya thought. Even though premarital sex was a taboo in this generation, her reaction was very innocent for someone who had been in a relationship for a long time.
3287
3288Of course, Tatsuya had the common sense to not sexually harass Mari with those words.
3289
3290“Of course I have it. It’s a primordial desire to preserve one’s own lineage.”
3291
3292That wasn’t a lie. But Tatsuya didn’t share the whole truth that his upper sexual limit was predetermined. It has no capability to rule over his actions or thoughts. Miya’s Mental Interference Magic ensured this.
3293
3294Because of that, Tatsuya’s matter of “sexual desire” isn’t about to entice him to make out. This had no need to be said either.
3295
3296“Watanabe-senpai. You asked me about how I feel towards Saegusa-senpai. What do you plan to do with this information?”
3297
3298Mari hadn’t recovered from the shock she originally got from Tatsuya.
3299
3300Having the main subject of their meeting suddenly brought up, she consoled herself to stop her flustering.
3301
3302“Tatsuya-kun, would you want to try going out with Mayumi?”
3303
3304“…By going out, you mean like that, right? Does Senpai not know about Miyuki and I?”
3305
3306Tatsuya’s cold glare disheartened her, but she gathered her courage and continued.
3307
3308“I know that your little sister is actually your cousin, and you both are engaged to each other.”
3309
3310“So you should understand that Saegusa-senpai and I shouldn’t be going out.”
3311
3312Tatsuya’s gaze became even more frigid.
3313
3314Cooling magic should be his little sister’s domain, but Mari felt his look could freeze her to death. She was screaming internally at herself to stay awake, for some reason she had started hallucinating that falling asleep could cause her to die from frostbite.
3315
3316“Your engagement is being contested by the Ichijou Family. Isn’t that right?”
3317
3318“You are quite informed. Did you hear that from Saegusa-senpai?”
3319
3320The formal objection made by the Ichijou Family shouldn’t have reached her ears. The engagement between Tatsuya and Miyuki was legal——though, if the actual link between Tatsuya and Miyuki got leaked, they would be punished for forgery of official documents——, the Ichijou Family had already caused a scandal in the world of magic. With that in mind, this whole topic has been kept more or less private.
3321
3322“Oh yeah. Also, Mayumi is in the same situation as well. Hmm, saying this the wrong way will cause misunderstandings… Mayumi is in the same boat as the Ichijou Family’s eldest son. They’re both being ordered to fill the same role.”
3323
3324The iciness in Tatsuya’s glare vanished. It was replaced with a chill that made Mari shift uncomfortably in her seat.
3325
3326“That… is a shocking story.”
3327
3328Tatsuya’s remark was his evaluation of the Saegusa Family’s decision, but his heart was different. He shuddered in amazement at the revelation that Mayumi was made to be a fiancée candidate for Tatsuya. He was awed at Miyuki’s intuition being so spot on. Even though she is still considered a young lady, a female’s intuition is scary… that was the only thought in Tatsuya’s mind.
3329
3330“I think so too.”
3331
3332Mari’s casual remarks were welcomed by Tatsuya’s sharp tongue.
3333
3334“Do you really understand what will happen?”
3335
3336“What?”
3337
3338“The one who will be slandered by the public won’t be me, but Saegusa-senpai.”
3339
3340Mari’s eye suddenly tinged with soft light.
3341
3342“How kind of you.”
3343
3344“This amount of concern is normal.”
3345
3346Tatsuya’s gaze didn’t relax.
3347
3348“If Mayumi didn’t have feelings for you, I would have dropped this a long time ago. I told her she didn’t have to suffer from this, but she doesn’t understand her own feelings.”
3349
3350And then? Tatsuya asked back with his eyes.
3351
3352“Mayumi doesn’t comprehend how she feels about you. She doesn’t know the depth of her affection. No, it’s more like she doesn’t want to admit it. She’s running away from her emotions.”
3353
3354“Isn’t that because she understands her position in this matter?”
3355
3356“She does. Mayumi isn’t able to just choose someone based on love interest. Having a lover and being married are different things, so falling in love is pointless. That’s how she feels about it.”
3357
3358“Are you sure you aren’t overthinking this? There’s certainly a tendency to prevent high level magicians from being single, but it isn’t to the point where you can’t pick your marriage partner.”
3359
3360“How about you? Your little sister?”
3361
3362This time Tatsuya stayed silent.
3363
3364Mari didn’t pursue any further for information about those two.
3365
3366“I want to make her experience love. It may be an unneeded and meddlesome thing to do, but after thinking about her situation, I don’t want her to just throw in the towel. You’re a guy so you probably don’t understand what I’m getting at.”
3367
3368“You’re right. I don’t.”
3369
3370“Ok… well at least just understand this; Mayumi has recognized that she has feelings for you. You might be the first and last love that she has.”
3371
3372Mari’s words were full of sincerity. She was only thinking about her friend’s feelings.
3373
3374“You’re overthinking it again.”
3375
3376But Tatsuya threw that sincerity aside with only those words.
3377
3378“Tatsuya-kun, you!”
3379
3380“I don’t know her as well as you do, but Saegusa-senpai doesn’t seem like she’d be that weak.”
3381
3382Mari’s enraged tongue was stopped by Tatsuya’s objection.
3383
3384“Give up on this matter. Abandon it. She won’t be seen as an obedient child if she pursues this road. Even if I don’t return her feelings, she would eventually find someone. Right?”
3385
3386Tatsuya stood up, looking down at Mari who was at a loss for words.
3387
3388“And above all else, it’s impossible because I am Miyuki’s fiancée.”
3389
3390The payment for Mari’s drink had already been taken.
3391
3392And like that, Tatsuya left the shop.
3393
3394
3395
3396
3397
3398Chapter 4
3399
3400
3401
3402
3403Raymond S. Clark. He’s currently a high school sophomore located in USNA Berkeley, California. He had been one of Shizuku’s classmates during her foreign exchange student program.
3404
3405The high school he attends differs from a Japanese Magic High School in that it isn’t a facility that specializes in Magic Training. In this school, Magic Studies and Magic Practice are optional subjects. However, even the USNA can’t escape from the cruel lack of teachers related to Magical courses. Since the number of student applicants vastly outnumber the amount of teachers, each and every school comes up with its own entrance exam to select future students. Objectively speaking, Raymond’s school had turned into a “Magic High School”.
3406
3407That wasn’t implying he was a poor Magician. Among his peers, Raymond was at the top of his class. Still, it wasn’t enough talent to enter the Stars or something similar. His value and talent lay in another area.
3408
3409That’s how they’re called by the USNA’s Intelligence Agency. In reality, they aren’t so much an organization as they are a group of unaffiliated individuals with the same special ability.
3410
3411“Hliðskjálf” is the hacking system concealed within the USNA’s worldwide communication interceptor “Echelon III”. Only seven “operators” have access to it. That’s the ability shared between “The Seven Sages”, using Hliðskjálf, which greatly surpasses Echelon III’s legitimate operators, to gather information from anywhere in the world, earning them this title.
3412
3413Among the seven operators of Hliðskjálf, there was only one person who actually used the title. This person, on a whim, gave information to the USNA about an anti-government organization and introduced himself as one of “The Seven Sages”. This was, of course, none other than Raymond.
3414
3415Today as well, Raymond was swimming in the sea of information brought to him by using Hliðskjálf. He was a person who was zealous about acquiring knowledge. He also liked to investigate about specific things here and there, but amassing information without a specific topic was closer to being a hobby of his. For Raymond, Hliðskjálf was the greatest of his toys.
3416
3417That being said, in order to actually use Hliðskjálf, one has to define search parameters first. That is because the nature and the function of Hliðskjálf is to answer questions.
3418
3419Rays of light became characters as the search conditions were being specified. The terminal of Hliðskjálf was operated by the user’s brain waves and gestures in a VR (Virtual Reality) like environment made possible by the HMD (Head-mounted Display). The camera caught the movement of his fingertips, rays of light were projected in the virtual environment. The operator inputs the search criteria with characters of light, determining the settings with the assistance of their brain waves.
3420
3421Right now, Raymond was using the broad “Scandal of the USNA Army” terms for his research. A massive amount of information opened in the sky, being displayed in various “windows”. The window in the distance displayed only the titles of articles while the window close-by was displaying their contents. Another window was composed of diagrams with their accompanying text, another contained images, and another was a video. If you directed your eyes on a window, it would come closer, while looking away would send it away. As far as the eye could see, there were innumerable windows in every direction.
3422
3423Speed reading and memorization were Raymond’s forte. Tens of windows queued up as he progressively carved their contents into his head. However, he unexpectedly stopped this operation. A certain window’s content attracted Raymond’s attention.
3424
3425(The contents of an old depot for small missiles went missing…?)
3426
3427It would be no surprise if this fact had made headlines. Sadly, it wasn’t unusual to hear that old weapons that were planned to be scrapped had up and disappeared.
3428
3429The missiles that went missing were using C-20 (cyclotrimethylene trinitramine) as the main explosive ingredient for an infantry-usable anti-aircraft missile. Even though it had been used quite a bit during the war that lasted until 2020, the progress on nanotechnologies allowing explosions to surpass the previous limits had forced these weapons into obsoletion.
3430
3431(Still, it’s a well-tried warfare tool… I can’t think of this affair as just a matter of control negligence.)
3432
3433Raymond licked his lips at the perspective of having found something suspicious. His forté was his fast reading speed and good memory, but he also had some kind of sixth sense for detecting fishy affairs.
3434
3435For Raymond, the events occurring in the real world were like the grandest shows. The more substantial and serious the event was, the greater his interest became.
3436
3437He knew full-well that he was no superman. Even if his magical talent was first-class, it wasn’t anywhere near the world’s finest. He knew that he would never be an influential Magician. Nor will he ever become a hero travelling the world. ——No matter how much he wished for it.
3438
3439Raymond looked at his potential that way. That is why, by lending his power to real heroes, he could feel like he shared in their adventures. He could then enjoy watching the events unfold on the stage he had set.
3440
3441That’s what he thought, and Hliðskjálf made this a possibility.
3442
3443It was like Hliðskjálf had been made to allow him to do so.
3444
3445(Should I start by examining this from the management situation of the depot?)
3446
3447Even if he finds out where the missing missiles went, he wasn’t sure that this whole thing would end there. No matter the affair, it was always a human’s hand that caused it. Who could’ve put those weapons on the black market? Raymond started a search with a now all too familiar procedure.
3448
3449
3450
3451
3452
3453Before Raymond noticed the disappearance of the old missiles——two days before in fact——this matter had become a problem for the USNA Army. This wasn’t a matter that could remain within the base’s jurisdiction, so the Joint Chiefs of Staff of the USNA’s Intelligence Division had begun an internal investigation.
3454
3455The reason this matter wasn’t entrusted to the gendarmerie was because they suspected a terrorist organization was involved. Those missiles could be put on the black market and end up in the hands of terrorists. If that disaster became reality, it would mean that once those missiles had been used and their origin discovered, it would provoke a worldwide scandal. The Department of Defense was ready to do anything to prevent that.
3456
3457However, the investigation had already started six days ago, but it was now January 27th and things had hardly progressed. Despite the fact that it was a Sunday, the Number 2, Colonel Virginia Balance, was present in the office. She had a grim expression as she read the presented report.
3458
3459There were almost no clues whatsoever that would help in this affair.
3460
3461She understood from the very beginning that the perpetrators must’ve received inside help. To begin with, it was practically impossible to steal weapons from the military, as old as those weapons were, without the cooperation from the inside. However, even if they somehow managed to bribe the captain of the unit charged with guarding the warehouse, there was no way they could’ve taken the weapons without leaving any trace whatsoever.
3462
3463The comings and goings of weapons are double, if not triple-checked. In addition to an RFID[2] tag, the warehouses are equipped with biometric sensors, and moreover, it is impossible to open or shut the accesses if you are alone because the need for two people cannot be bypassed. They were investigating if there had been any anomalies in those systems, to no avail.
3464
3465Virginia was reminded of a point that was particularly perturbing her: how did they notice that something went missing?
3466
3467The loss of the missiles was noticed by the people responsible for checking stocks. However, if this theft was performed by an organization capable of completely bypassing the security of the warehouse, why didn’t they also falsify the stock records? These were obsolete weapons awaiting disposal. If they had modified the data to make it seem like they had been disposed of, no one would have noticed.
3468
3469It was as if someone had stolen them and allowed them to notice on purpose. Colonel Virginia genuinely felt that this was the case.
3470
3471(But then, who could’ve done that, and for what purpose? No, to begin with, who even has the capability to pull something like this off?)
3472
3473The lack of information made it impossible to reach a conclusion.
3474
3475Knowing so, Virginia was lost in unnecessary thoughts.
3476
3477Virginia collected herself at the sound of her phone’s ringtone, signaling a new email. It wasn’t an ordinary email either. It was a communication using a code that only top-level members of the Intelligence Division knew about.
3478
3479With practiced, machine-like movements of her hands, she transferred the contents of the email to an offline decoder as per procedure. It wouldn’t be readable on a device available due to the masses to prevent sharing information in plain text. When she saw the deciphered message and spotted the name of the sender, Virginia wore an amazed expression.
3480
3481“The Seven Sages”.
3482
3483Her eyes glistened as she read the contents. Forgetting to breathe as the pored over the contents, it took a few moments for her to compose herself after reading the email.
3484
3485“Are these kinds of things even permitted?”
3486
3487The secret information received from “The Seven Sages” stated that the President’s Assistant of the Deputy Chief of Staff took part in the matter.
3488
3489And even worse was the motive. If what was written here was true, then all of this was part of a much larger-scale plan that vastly exceeded Virginia’s expectations.
3490
3491Virginia stretched her hand towards the visiphone when her hand stopped.
3492
3493She was hesitating about who exactly she should call. No, to be more precise, she had no idea.
3494
3495To whom she should share this information with, and if she can even trust anyone with this, Virginia was at a loss.
3496
3497
3498
3499
3500
3501Angelina Sirius, High Commander in direct command of the USNA Army’s Magician Force, Stars, was enjoying a rare shopping break.
3502
3503Of course, she currently wasn’t walking around as the “Strategic-Class Magician Angie Sirius” but as the 17-year-old, Lina.
3504
3505Instead of going to the nearest town Roswell, Silvia Mercury First, nicknamed Silvie, who was accompanying Lina, strongly recommended that they extend their travel to Albuquerque.
3506
3507Since their mission last year in Japan, these two have been spending quite a lot of time together. Despite their age difference, Silvie treated Lina as if she was her younger sister. Lina’s utter lack of what could be called a normal girl’s common sense provoked a swirl of emotions inside of her, and she simply could not leave Lina alone.
3508
3509Today, like prior ones, was Silvie playing dress-up using Lina as the doll. However, Lina was also enjoying herself. Even though her fashion sense was on the questionable side, she like dressing up. To be fair, if the subject’s tastes were fine, there wasn’t much need to improve them.
3510
3511In this case, Lina didn’t have someone to look pretty for in comparison to Miyuki, which lead to a huge gap.
3512
3513But putting all of that aside, Lina was going back to the base’s lodging house in a very good mood, carrying her spoils of war. You could say that those were very fulfilling holidays. Even though she didn’t receive any mobilization orders as Sirius, a harsh session of training was waiting for her tomorrow. Today had been pretty refreshing, Lina was quite satisfied.
3514
3515However, her cheerful mood was immediately blown away by the mail she received on her room’s terminal.
3516
3517“An encrypted mail!?”
3518
3519It wasn’t that unusual for her to receive an encrypted mail containing secret orders. However, that a mail using the special encryption code only known of the High Commander, the Chiefs of Staff and the Captains of the Stars, arriving directly on her room’s terminal was a first.
3520
3521Could it be an emergency? In a mix of impatience and nervousness, Lina was waiting for the decoder to transcribe the contents of the mail.
3522
3523Shocked feelings surfaced in her expression as she started to read.
3524
3525“The Seven Sages…?”
3526
3527The name of the sender was “The Seven Sages”.
3528
3529“A joke?” was Lina’s first reaction but she dismissed that thought as quickly as it came. There is no way a mere hacker could access the Stars special encryption code. To begin with, the title of “The Seven Sages” wasn’t known by those outside the direct control of the Joint Chiefs of Staff HQ.
3530
3531Lina hurriedly resumed her reading. A few events without seemingly any relation to her duties were recorded.
3532
3533“Eh!? The mastermind behind the Parasite event!?”
3534
3535However, as she reached the end of the mail, information that was strongly connected to Lina started to appear.
3536
3537Lina had been sent to Japan due to the event that occurred on October 31st, 2095 A.D. She had been sent to uncover the identity of the user of the Strategic-Class Magic that ravaged the southern tip of the Korean Peninsula, the “Great Bomb” (this was the name given to Material Burst by the USNA). However, once the Stars Members possessed by the Parasites started to desert and flee to Japan, as a part of her High Commander’s duties she ordered their “Disposal”.
3538
3539Lina was told that the Parasite outbreak was the result of an accident.
3540
3541Due to that fact, it was supposed to end with the deaths of the affected people. However, if this source was to be trusted, then the Parasite Affair had been purposely started and the perpetrator was responsible for the comrades that Lina was forced to kill. The added despair from her assassination duty would also be the instigator’s fault.
3542
3543This was definitely something that couldn’t be forgiven.
3544
3545“…The Mastermind of the Parasites is going to try to perform acts of terrorism in Japan by using old missiles he stole? This can’t be real!?”
3546
3547After she finished her reading of the mail, Lina found herself instinctively shouting about.
3548
3549This was information coming from a dubious source. There was no guarantee that it held any truth.
3550
3551A profiler working for the USNA Army had analyzed “The Seven Sages” and came to the conclusion that they most likely enjoyed the reactions provoked by their whimsical acts. Even if that mail truly came from “The Seven Sages”, Lina couldn’t shrug off the possibility that this was all part of an elaborate plan to play some kind of trick on her.
3552
3553Despite that, Lina believed this information.
3554
3555During the last stages of the Parasite Affair of last year, just like today, Lina had received information from someone using the name “The Seven Sages”. At that time, she didn’t have any reason to believe the information given either. But even still, she had believed it was the truth.
3556
3557This time was the same. Her believing it had no basis. There was no real reason for her to believe it.
3558
3559However, if she ignored this information and something happened afterwards she would deeply regret it.
3560
3561Being tricked, being manipulated and becoming a laughingstock wouldn’t compare to that.
3562
3563If the conspiracy recorded in the mail was the truth and became reality, then the USNA would have a great debt towards Japan. Considering Japan’s current state of tension, if USNA-made weapons were used in terrorist acts… Then it wouldn’t be surprising if Japan accused them of instigating terrorism on their territory.
3564
3565If you think about the difference in power between the two countries, the possibility of a war happening was rather small. However, that is if we’re only taking conventional war potential in account, and not something like the Strategic-Class Magic responsible for “Scorched Halloween”. If the range of that magic can extend even further than the Pacific Ocean——as another user of Strategic-Class Magic, Lina’s common sense denies the possibility of… the worst could happen.
3566
3567That is why she believes the information.
3568
3569Lina was convinced she had to stop this plan from reaching fruition. Not just obstructing, but actually killing the mastermind behind it as well.
3570
3571However, according to the information provided by “The Seven Sages”, the Mastermind “Jiedo Heigu” had already left the USNA for Japan.
3572
3573Indeed, it would be difficult for Lina to act outside of her country, let alone in Japan.
3574
3575Lina decided to consult about this entire scenario with the only person she thought could help.
3576
3577
3578
3579
3580
3581Virginia extended her hand towards the ringing visiphone.
3582
3583Her posture crumbled for a moment. She quickly recovered and pressed the button to accept the call.
3584
3585[Colonel, forgive me for calling unannounced.]
3586
3587Lina appeared on the screen, saluting in her purple-black Stars uniform.
3588
3589Seeing Lina’s appearance, as if she had just changed in her fresh, tight uniform, Virginia felt slightly nostalgic.
3590
3591“Major Sirius. Weren’t you on leave today?”
3592
3593Lina’s expression betrayed her surprise. She struggled to understand why Virginia was aware of her schedule despite the fact that she is not even under her direct command. From Virginia’s point of view, it was part of the course for her to know everything about the movements of a Strategic-Class Magician, one of the “Twelve Apostles”, the strongest magician of the USNA and High Commander of the Stars, Angie Sirius.
3594
3595“Don’t pay attention to what I just said. So, do you have any business with me?”
3596
3597Sincerely apologizing for the idle talk, Virginia enquired about the reason of her call.
3598
3599[Yes. Being blunt I require assistance from the Colonel about a report I received.]
3600
3601Being urged on by Virginia, Lina began exposing the matter.
3602
3603“Go on.”
3604
3605[Understood. To tell you the truth, in the period of time ranging from 0900 hours to 1632 hours when I was out, I received an encrypted message from someone who claimed to be a member of “The Seven Sages”.]
3606
3607“When you say the Seven Sages, are you talking about ‘those’ ‘Seven Sages’?”
3608
3609Hiding the shock, she received behind a poker face, Virginia responded so.
3610
3611[It was indeed the sender’s name. Although, I have no way of knowing whether it is the truth or not.]
3612
3613“Hmm.”
3614
3615Virginia nodded and urged Lina to continue through the camera.
3616
3617[Assuming that the source of information is indeed “The Seven Sages”, the report stated that weapons stolen from our army are going to be used in a terrorist attack. The target would be Japan.]
3618
3619“What kind of weapon?”
3620
3621[Infantry-Carried Anti-Aircraft Missiles.]
3622
3623“…Major, do you think such a case of theft actually occurred?”
3624
3625[I don’t have a definite answer. However, there are indeed rumors about weapons awaiting disposal being stolen from us.]
3626
3627Virginia uttered a sigh. If someone like Lina who was pretty much isolated from the regular military troops…
3628
3629If the information leaked so far that even a “Sheltered Official” such as her was aware of this matter, then that means it wasn’t just the staff in-charge of the weapons’ surveillance whose discipline was lacking.
3630
3631[Colonel?]
3632
3633A worried expression started to appear on Lina’s face. Knowing her, she might be thinking that she offended Virginia in some way.
3634
3635Virginia herself interpreted it so anyway. For her, this was rather vexing.
3636
3637“No, it’s nothing. Please go on.”
3638
3639[Understood. Even though there was no mention of a specific target, there were references concerning a Mastermind. The name was Jiedo Heigu. He became a political refugee following Dahan’s ruin, his Chinese name is Gu Jie. His estimated age would be between 60 and 90 years old. Black eyes and white hair, it appears that despite his Eastern Asian lineage, he possesses dark skin. There was a special note mentioning that he might be a survivor of the Kunlunfang Institute.]
3640
3641“The Kunlunfang Institute? Isn’t that the Magic Research Laboratory of Dahan that was exterminated by the Yotsuba?”
3642
3643[I think that is indeed the case.]
3644
3645They couldn’t possibly be thinking of taking revenge on the Yotsuba by using the missiles, could they? Virginia thought, but she immediately dismissed that hypothesis as nonsensical. If the Yotsuba could be dealt with as simply as that, they wouldn’t be feared as “Untouchable” throughout the world.
3646
3647[Furthermore.]
3648
3649While Virginia was lost in her thoughts, Lina continued her report.
3650
3651[It appears that Jiedo Heigu was the Mastermind behind the Parasite Affair.]
3652
3653Virginia had a look of understanding.
3654
3655“I see, so this was the main reason of your call.”
3656
3657Even if her intention was discovered, Lina didn’t cower.
3658
3659[Colonel. Even if the information about Jiedo Heigu’s relation to the Parasite Affair is the truth, I would like to know his degree of involvement. The deserters might have had no relation to the Parasite Outbreak, and could have been mere pawns. However, if this Jiedo Heigu has even the slightest link to this affair, I cannot overlook it. If I don’t pay him back with my very own hands, I won’t be able to get over it.]
3660
3661“Major Sirius. Are you telling me you want to go to Japan once more?”
3662
3663[Affirmative, Colonel.]
3664
3665Virginia frowned as if taken by a sudden headache.
3666
3667Allowing Lina to leave the country was a difficult matter. Even under the best circumstances, dispatching magicians to other countries should be done carefully. The degree of difficulty increases by several orders of magnitude if they were talking about the Strategic-Class Magician “Sirius”. One of the Strategic-Class Magicians of the USNA, Roland Bart, had been placed in the British territory of Gibraltar, but even then, there was almost no record of him going out of that base. To the extent that he is purposely called back to the USNA during his vacations.
3668
3669Having sent Lina in Japan last year was an exception among exceptions.
3670
3671Lina herself probably understood all of this very well. That is why Virginia also understood what this was about when Lina decided to call her. Moreover, Virginia fully understood Lina’s desire to take revenge on Heigu with her own hands.
3672
3673“…At this time I cannot give you an answer. Major, you will have to give me some time.”
3674
3675Lina couldn’t hide her surprise in front of the camera. For her, who thought that she would be immediately rejected, Virginia’s response was going in a surprisingly good direction.
3676
3677[Yes, I’m counting on you, Colonel.]
3678
3679The call ended with Lina’s appearance saluting on the screen.
3680
3681
3682
3683
3684
3685Meanwhile, Jiedo Heigu, or Gu Jie, was at sea.
3686
3687Even though up until a few days ago he had lived on the USNA’s West Coast, he didn’t possess USNA citizenship.
3688
3689Gu Jie’s homeland was Dahan, a country that had already disappeared.
3690
3691He used to belong to the Magician Development Institute of Kunlunfang. In the eventuality that Dahan would collapse, the USNA’s government would grant him refugee status, and as such, his social status was currently that of a normal refugee.
3692
3693However, at the time Gu Jie arrived on the North American continent in 2054, the country’s name was still the USA. Dahan’s collapse occurred in February of the year 2064 A.D., merely a single year after the destruction of the Kunlunfang Institute.
3694
3695After the collapse of Dahan, rather, the destruction of the Kunlunfang Institute, Gu Jie didn’t seek asylum from North America. He ran away from Dahan.
3696
3697The Kunlunfang Institute predated the division between the Great Asian Alliance and Dahan, and one could think of it as the main Modern Magic’s research laboratory of the old Eastern Asian region.
3698
3699However, that wasn’t the entire truth.
3700
3701The Kunlunfang Institute had earned quite the renown as a laboratory developing Modern Magic. But that wasn’t the only thing they had been working on.
3702
3703Both Ancient Magic and Modern Magic were being researched.
3704
3705However, just like the other countries, those two “factions”, so to speak, were at odds.
3706
3707Originally, the Ninth Institute in Japan was supposed to use the know-how of Ancient Magic to develop Modern Magic. That being said, it wasn’t researching both Ancient Magic and Modern Magic simultaneously. In the end, the Ancient Magic Users revolted, and the rebels also took over the Ninth Institute after the lockdown.
3708
3709Both groups turned into something similar to organizations, competing for leadership. Ancient Magic and Modern Magic users argued about each and every policy for the Research Laboratories, including objectives, budgets, and human resources.
3710
3711Even in the Kunlunfang Institute, both Ancient Magic users and Modern Magic users fiercely competed for control.
3712
3713Despite the fact that the Kunlunfang Institute was the main laboratory of Dahan, the internal dispute continued. No, rather, it intensified and this escalation would bring about a catastrophe before long. The Modern Magic side ended up winning the power struggle and banished the Ancient Magic users from the Institute. This happened in the year 2054.
3714
3715It was at that time that Gu Jie, as an Ancient Magic User, fled to North America along with his apprentice Zhou Gongjin. That’s why, under normal circumstances, Gu Jie shouldn’t have any grudge towards the Yotsuba nor Japan’s Magicians. The Yotsuba were the ones who crushed the Modern Magician sect, the ones who had taken over the Kunlunfang Institute. They should have been something similar to a “the enemy of my enemy is my ally” existence to Gu Jie.
3716
3717However, after Dahan’s collapse, Gu Jie decided that the Yotsuba and the Japanese Magic Community were targets for revenge. Exactly what kind of mental thought process led him to that conclusion, no one really knew.
3718
3719Was it patriotism?
3720
3721Did he feel like his own revenge of Dahan had been taken away from him?
3722
3723Was an enemy simply needed to maintain his subordinate’s cohesion?
3724
3725The only thing that was certain was that Gu Jie constructed a criminal network made up of Dahan’s deserters, that he exerts a powerful control over them and that his only known objective so far is revenge. As for the person in question, nothing else is known.
3726
3727When he was still alive, Zhou Gongjin had apparently compared his obsession to that of a “vengeful spirit”.
3728
3729Due to the lack of apparent reason behind his acts, it was impossible to convince him to stop. Having lost his last apprentice, Zhou Gongjin, he decided take matters into his own hands.
3730
3731However, Gu Jie’s direct, immediate fighting potential was low. Even though he was also a user of Ancient Continental Magic, the Magic that he possessed wasn’t suited for direct confrontation. If we’re talking strictly about duels, Zhou Gongjin was his superior. This was something Gu Jie himself was willing to admit.
3732
3733Gu Jie was proficient in techniques that used human organs or parts to create magic devices, like with the case of “Sorcery Boosters”, that is, to turn a human into a tool functioning similarly to a “Generator”, and magic for controlling corpses.
3734
3735He was the practitioner of the side of Magic that concentrated all of its vilest aspects, but ethical questions aside, he really wasn’t the type to fight head on. Actually, he had kept himself to just being a manipulator until now.
3736
3737For Gu Jie himself to come to Japan was proof that he had been cornered, and had no other choice.
3738
3739The international Anti-Magic Political Organization that he had been supporting, “Blanche”, had been considerably weakened by the pressure and measures taken by the governments of several nations. As the leader of the criminal syndicate “No Head Dragon”, he had also tried to spread rumors in both Japan and the USNA (with the cooperation of the Great Asian Alliance) but his plan ended in failure as well.
3740
3741Finally, he lost his envoy in Japan, Zhou Gongjin. Zhou Gongjin had been under Gu Jie’s command for more than 40 years, the last remaining person who had fled Dahan with him. With this loss, Gu Jie was forced to act by himself.
3742
3743Zhou Gongjin had been killed in October of last year.
3744
3745It was slightly past mid-January when Gu Jie left from the Los Angeles’ port.
3746
3747It wasn’t because he was mourning the death of his apprentice, nor because his plan had failed that Gu Jie took more than two months to make his move. It was the result of him waiting for the most appropriate time. Truth be told, he wanted to leave for Japan immediately and retaliate, however, if he failed to, then things would be over once and for all. He was conscious of that fact.
3748
3749With his magical skills, being too aggressive was impossible. That isn’t to say that his magical skills are nonexistent, but against a first-rate Magician, it was nowhere near sufficient. That was why he first needed weapons.
3750
3751If Blanche and No Head Dragon had been in a better state, a simple word of his would have done the deal, and a single month would’ve been more than enough to gather the materials.
3752
3753That would include the arrangements required for a ship that would cross the Pacific Ocean. As things are, he had to set up all of that himself. To be more precise, he found a random punk that he used as a disposable puppet, but since he had to go through the trouble of preparing him as well as giving him various orders, it was basically as if he had done all the work himself. Furthermore, to make it so that this puppet wouldn’t be traced back to him, he embarked it on the boat to get rid of it in the ocean.
3754
3755“Sir Gu. We can be expected to enter the port of Yokosuka tomorrow morning.”
3756
3757The captain of the freighter reported so to a Gu Jie who was looking at the sea in front of him. The deck of the freighter was completely covered by solar panels.
3758
3759“Just as planned.”
3760
3761Without any trace of exhaustion from the long journey, Gu Jie answered in a firm voice.
3762
3763Gu Jie is currently 97 years old. His outward appearance however was barely that of someone in his fifties. His hair was completely white, however, the wrinkles, sagging and age spots that one should normally find on someone of his age were inexistent.
3764
3765“And also, umm… Sir, my reward.”
3766
3767“I understand. Tomorrow at the morning twilight, I will apply my Magic.”
3768
3769“Thank you very much! Even after this journey ends, I promise my unwavering loyalty to you, Sir.”
3770
3771Gu Jie nodded with a pleased expression. Behind this mask however, he had nothing but contempt for the captain.
3772
3773The reward this captain was talking about. Longevity and perpetual youth.
3774
3775It was the truth that Gu Jie’s “surgery” could maintain a perpetual youth, his very own face was the proof of that.
3776
3777However, even if he could guarantee a physical youth, longevity was out of his reach. He couldn’t give genuine immortality.
3778
3779This surgery of his was a magic developed in the Kunlunfang Institute, and it was the very reason of his presence in the Kunlunfang Institute.
3780
3781Unsurprisingly, coming from humans with power, the Leaders of Dahan longed for perpetual youth. And while the Modern Magic Users in the Kunlunfang Institute replied that it was impossible, Ancient Magic Users assured them of the opposite. For the Ancient Magic Users whose position had fallen behind Modern Magic in the race of arms that the Kunlunfang Institute advocated, it had been a godsend.
3782
3783The one who was developing the most promising magic among the Ancient Magic Users group was Gu Jie. Of course, it was his surgery of perpetual youth.
3784
3785It was in the year 2049 that he used his magic on his own body, like a test subject.
3786
3787To ascertain whether this magic could be used safely or not, he used it on nine apprentices in the year 2050.
3788
3789After 5 years had passed, it was confirmed that Gu Jie’s aging had come to a stop. His apprentices didn’t develop any side-effects either, and it was then thought that a magic of perpetual youth had been achieved.
3790
3791However, there was a drawback in this Magic. Certainly, this “Surgery of Perpetual Youth” appeared to stop the aging. However, if the person the magic is performed on doesn’t have the aptitude, the compensation for staying young is to consume their life force. In other words, one’s lifespan. There had been some cases of sudden death after three to six months.
3792
3793A magic that acts for eternity is impossible. This holds true for both Modern Magic and Ancient Magic. The surgery of perpetual youth consists of implanting the magic inside of someone who then continually applies it.
3794
3795This magic had been made specifically for Ancient Magic practitioners.
3796
3797What would happen if a Magician tried to perform a magic that he has no aptitude for?
3798
3799What would happen if this magic was used on someone who isn’t even a Magician?
3800
3801The surgery of perpetual youth gave the one answer to those questions.
3802
3803When the men of influence from Dahan, who had already received the “Surgery of Perpetual Youth” presented it to their kinsmen, Gu Jie explained to them the flaws in his Magic.
3804
3805The ensuing result was the purge of the Ancient Magic Users’ group.
3806
3807Quickly learning the failure of his experiment, Gu Jie took his apprentices and fled to North America.
3808
380920 years later, Gu Jie realized that his magic also didn’t prolong one’s longevity either.
3810
3811He realized it with his own apprentices’ deaths.
3812
3813In the end, the surgery that he had developed could only stop the degradation of one’s outward appearance. The only reason Gu Jie lived up to this age was that he originally had a long life ahead of him.
3814
3815It was this kind of imperfect Magic that the freighter’s captain hoped for.
3816
3817From Gu Jie’s point of view, it was quite a laughable matter.
3818
3819The one who told the captain about the surgery of perpetual youth was none other than Gu Jie himself. To earn the captain’s cooperation, he had told him “there is a secret art that allows one to conserve his youth until the day of his death”. If you cooperate with me, I will apply this magic on you.
3820
3821It wasn’t a lie. Without a doubt, this captain will conserve his current youth until his death. Which will probably happen within half a year.
3822
3823Gu Jie himself was aware that his own time was getting dangerously short.
3824
3825“I will be pretty busy from tomorrow onwards.”
3826
3827“I will also help you once we land on Yokosuka. Please, feel free to ask me anything, sir.”
3828
3829Without any knowledge about his real intentions, the captain stated so in an elated manner.
3830
3831
3832
3833
3834
3835Even though Virginia had asked Lina to give her some time, she went into action pretty quickly.
3836
3837She left her office the morning of the following day and made arrangements for her journey. Her destination was the Stars Headquarters situated in the city of Roswell, New Mexico.
3838
3839Wrapping up all the urgent deskwork she had to do for the day, she used the encrypting device at her home to safely transmit the data via email.
3840
3841This encryption machine had been a gift from Kuroba Ayako, and the recipient of the email was Yotsuba Maya. The content of the email was basically the same as what Lina had reported to her, that an act of terrorism had been planned in Japan using stolen missiles and that the possibility of the mastermind, Jiedo Heigu, being a survivor of the Kunlunfang Institute was high.
3842
3843Virginia didn’t include the secret information that Lina had shared with her however. That is, an information related to the scandal on the USNA government. Even though Virginia formed an alliance with the Yotsuba Family she did not completely trust them. She had no reason to hesitate on cooperating with them, however, she couldn’t endanger national interests.
3844
3845The reply from Maya arrived when Virginia was eating. The content of the letter had simple words of gratitude for the information provided.
3846
3847This kind of message had no real importance for her, but she didn’t particularly mind. That was because this mail’s purpose was simply to seal the deal regarding their alliance.
3848
3849Finally, after reconfirming the schedule of each Stars Commander, she headed for the bathroom.
3850
3851
3852
3853
3854
3855Maya had received Virginia’s mail at 8:00 A.M., Monday, January 28th, Japan standard time.
3856
3857“Hayama-san, it appears that remnants of the Kunlunfang Institute are plotting an act of terrorism here in Japan.”
3858
3859“That is quite the important matter.”
3860
3861Hayama’s answer was rather neutral. Of course, he was aware of what Maya had gone through in the Kunlunfang Institute. Taking her feelings into account, it was perfectly natural for him to not return a proper answer at once, even if neither anger nor hatred could be felt from Maya’s voice.
3862
3863“An important matter? A mere stray dog who lost his home?”
3864
3865However, it wasn’t like Maya was completely emotionless. You could hear slight disdain in her voice.
3866
3867“Mistress, if there really is a survivor from the Kunlunfang Institute then that means he managed to escape from the previous Head of the Family.”
3868
3869Hayama lightly reproved her. Maya’s pride, to be more precise.
3870
3871“We have no idea what sort of unusual talent he might possess. I strongly recommend we stay vigilant.”
3872
3873“I understand.”
3874
3875Despite responding so, Maya’s lips curved into a smile full of disdain.
3876
3877“Still, what are they hoping to achieve with small missiles? Japan is not a zone of conflict after all. Moving around carrying these is practically begging to be captured, don’t you think?”
3878
3879“During the Yokohama Incident, the guerillas who had concealed themselves in town beforehand had managed to prepare quite a few missiles.”
3880
3881“That was thanks to the camouflaged warship they had as backup, wasn’t it?”
3882
3883Objecting on reflex, Maya retorted.
3884
3885“…Yet, it’s true that there is no guarantee that we will be able to successfully prevent this planned act of terrorism.”
3886
3887“Even a Magician would die if hit by a missile while in a defenseless condition. Moreover, depending on their objective, we might have to deal with danger in another form altogether. There is a possibility of them dismantling the warheads and using them as bombs too. Back during the times of war, these kinds of suicide bombing attacks were regular occurrences.”
3888
3889Faced with Hayama’s numerous examples, even Maya couldn’t deny the necessity of dealing with it.
3890
3891“Understood. Then let’s look for this Jiedo Heigu. A lot of our workforce is focused on the preparation for the Master Clan Conference, however, so we won’t be able to field too much personnel.”
3892
3893The Master Clan Conference will take place next month, in the beginning of February in 2097. In particular, this period was the reunion of the Ten Master Clans which happens once every 4 years.
3894
3895The Conference will decide the members of the future Ten Master Clans for a duration of 4 years. There were 28 Houses which had the qualifications to become a Member of the Ten Master Clans, and everyone was in a hurry to perform the final tasks in order to have an advantage for the selection.
3896
3897The selection will be decided by internal voting, and since only 28 Houses can participate, it will be nothing like large-scale elections or anything. However, it was necessary to make various arrangements as well as finding faults in other Houses to have the best possible odds.
3898
3899“Should we talk about this matter with the other Houses?”
3900
3901Maya pondered for a few moments before shaking her head from left to right at Hayama’s suggestion of asking for the cooperation of the other Clans.
3902
3903“I would rather not be a subject of gossip. Let me think… Alright, spread the rumor that terrorists targeting magicians have infiltrated the country. With this, we should expect them to make the necessary moves.
3904
3905Could you work on this until lunch?”
3906
3907“Understood, Mistress. They will be ready in two hours.”
3908
3909Search and Information Manipulation, giving his words this double—meaning, Hayama politely bowed.
3910
3911
3912
3913
3914
39159:00 A.M., Japan standard time, January the 28th, Gu Jie’s freighter entered Yokosuka’s port.
3916
3917Immediately after landing, Gu Jie started to collect the required personnel for his plans. That being said, the arrangements had already been done beforehand. Despite losing the No Head Dragon Organization, Gu Jie had gathered quite the extensive know-how to make deals with the obscure sides of modern society during his days as a mastermind. As long as quality wasn’t a crucial factor, it wasn’t that difficult to gather personnel. No matter how prosperous a society is, unfortunate people exist.
3918
3919The target had been confirmed even before the landing. Of course, the location for the Ten Master Clans Conference had only been shared between the concerned. However, using Hliðskjálf would allow one to easily uncover that information.
3920
3921The super-hacking tool, Hliðskjálf. Gu Jie wasn’t the type to qualify anything as “super”, but the fact of the matter is, there wasn’t really any other expression strong enough to describe it.
3922
3923Hliðskjálf’s information gathering capability was effective worldwide.
3924
3925Gu Jie was aware that it was impossible to access information which only exists offline, however, in this day and age, information that couldn’t be found using the network was practically non-existent. No matter the complexity of the encryption, Hliðskjálf would decipher it.
3926
3927Even quantum encrypted transmissions that “cannot be intercepted without possessing the correct decryption key” can be completely overturned and rendered powerless.
3928
3929Who exactly invented this system? Who, and for what purpose, did this person send me this terminal? Even Gu Jie had first approached it with caution. Especially, when he discovered the hidden drawback in the system after having made a random search.
3930
3931This drawback became clear all too soon.
3932
3933Hliðskjálf records everything that the user investigates. The other Operators can also see it.
3934
3935Still, they have no way of understanding who exactly made the search.
3936
3937What they know is “what has been searched” and that’s it.
3938
3939Gu Jie remembered the disappointment he felt back then. That the system’s creator would be able to see what exactly he searched for had been within his expectation. Even though the identities of the seven operators was supposed to remain a mystery with this system, Gu Jie wasn’t the kind of person to take someone’s words as gospel (At least, that’s what he thought of himself). The administrator of this system, the person who most certainly sent this terminal to him, could probably understand who did what. If you were to acknowledge this fact and still wanted to use the terminal, then the fact that other operators could also search your history shouldn’t matter that much.
3940
3941Gu Jie didn’t have any hesitation in using Hliðskjálf.
3942
3943Of course, he always had in mind the possibility that the system could be lying. He didn’t use it for every piece of information he wanted, however. There have been plenty of times where he collected information without relying on it, for the reasons stated above. But still, Hliðskjálf was an extremely convenient tool.
3944
3945The problem he faced this time was that the Ten Master Clans might have predicted an attack if they had heard rumors of someone making investigations on the conference’s location. Gu Jie didn’t underestimate the power of the Ten Master Clans. It was also possible that if a person among the Ten Master Clans also had access to Hliðskjálf, an ambush would be waiting for him. Of course, he was extremely careful as to what keywords he used during his search, and just because things went smoothly up until now didn’t mean that this time would be the same.
3946
3947Taking this into consideration, he had prepared various plans in the eventuality of an ambush.
3948
3949Gu Jie’s purpose wasn’t to assassinate the Heads of the Ten Master Clans. Socially ending the Yotsuba Family that destroyed the Kunlunfang Institute was his goal.
3950
3951While seeing off his dolls who were heading towards the town of Hakone in freight vehicles, Gu Jie sneered at the dark pleasure swelling from within himself. These dolls had been made from various poor citizens of Yokosuka.
3952
3953
3954
3955
3956
3957Even though Lina was slightly surprised at her training’s interruption, she obeyed the orders and headed towards the base’s control room.
3958
3959Her companion was the Commanding Officer of the Stars First Unit, Benjamin Canopus. He was the person Lina was relying on the most, Stars’ Number 2.
3960
3961“Ben, what do you think this is all about?”
3962
3963Canopus shook his head at Lina, whose voice betrayed a certain anxiety.
3964
3965“Truth be told, I have no idea. However, nothing in particular has happened recently so I doubt this is going to be a scolding or anything of the sort.”
3966
3967It wasn’t that rare for Stars Members to break things during their training. Things like training equipment, vehicles, and even facilities.
3968
3969Considering the Stars were training for combat situations, a certain degree of destruction couldn’t be helped, and this was even more valid when Commander-Class personnel were training. Lina had heard various complaints about the budget from the base’s commander.
3970
3971“I-I guess so.”
3972
3973Canopus looked at Lina with a smile while she was mumbling to herself words of encouragement. He had a daughter who was only 2 years younger than Lina, and because of that, he’d sort of developed parental feelings for her.
3974
3975Without knowing that her subordinate was pointing such warm eyes towards her, Lina tightly clenched her fists and was psyching herself up.
3976
3977——Lina was unaware that her childish, cutesy gesture was further prodding Canopus’ feelings.
3978
3979Somehow successfully managing to put her uneasiness in a corner of her heart, she straightened her posture and adopted——or at least she thought she had——a proper expression for someone of the military, then knocked on the door of the Commander’s Room. With a voice signaling her to come in, the lock of the door disengaged. Opening the door for herself, Lina instinctively raised her voice at the unexpected person in the room.
3980
3981“Colonel Balance!?”
3982
3983Right next to the commander of the base, who was behind his desk, was Colonel Virginia Balance sitting in a chair.
3984
3985“Major, what are you doing. Come in.”
3986
3987Ordered by the irritated voice of the base’s commander, Walker, who also had the rank of Colonel, Lina moved in front of the desk in a hurry.
3988
3989Canopus followed Lina with a composed attitude.
3990
3991“Major Sirius, Major Canopus, at ease.”
3992
3993Walker talked to the two people who saluted in front of his desk.
3994
3995“Yes.”
3996
3997Lina and Canopus both adopted the resting pose simultaneously.
3998
3999“Colonel Balance has something to tell to the two of you.”
4000
4001Saying so, Walker stood up.
4002
4003“Then, Colonel Balance.”
4004
4005Virginia stood up from her seat slightly after him.
4006
4007“Colonel Walker. Thank you for allowing us to borrow your room for a few moments.”
4008
4009Walker and Virginia saluted each other, then Walker went out of the room.
4010
4011Locking the door using the remote control, Virginia finally faced Lina.
4012
4013“Major Sirius, even though I think you already figured out the reason for my presence, it’s about yesterday’s matter.”
4014
4015“Yes.”
4016
4017As she said, Lina had guessed that this could be related to the request she had formulated yesterday.
4018
4019“It is unfortunate, however, that the Major’s request cannot be granted.”
4020
4021And the answer was as Lina had expected.
4022
4023“We cannot carelessly allow the High Commander of the Stars, a Strategic-Class Magician to leave the country.”
4024
4025Even though she had become accustomed to this reason, she still couldn’t accept it deep in her heart. Despite the fact that she fulfilled her duty when she was sent to Japan last year, it didn’t change the fact that she really wasn’t fit for such a task.
4026
4027
4028
4029
4030
4031Thinking about it, dealing with a terrorist threat in a friendly nation that was allowed to exist due to her own army’s blunder was, in fact, considered an obligation of Stars. At the very least, those were Lina’s thoughts on the matter. Even more so considering the chances of the Mastermind being a Magician were exceptionally high.
4032
4033“——That is the official reason on the matter, anyhow.”
4034
4035However, Lina’s displeasure at hearing this was about to skyrocket.
4036
4037“The truth is, higher-ups are starting to wonder if the Major holds excess sympathy for Japan. Some are even fearing that the Major would consider exiling herself to Japan. In other words, there is an issue of trust.”
4038
4039“Wait a moment! I have sworn loyalty to this nation, haven’t I?!”
4040
4041“I know.”
4042
4043Virginia nodded with a calm expression at a Lina who instinctively reacted.
4044
4045“I am not doubting the Major’s loyalty. However, the fact you have Japanese lineage, and that you are still only a 17-year-old girl are causing them to doubt your allegiance.”
4046
4047Lina was mortified. For her, having mostly an Anglo-Saxon face, experiencing what basically amounted to racism was a first.
4048
4049Furthermore, considering it wasn’t face-to-face discrimination but instead being whispered behind her back, her head was starting to boil from rage.
4050
4051“I can’t really find any other word than utter stupidity to qualify this.
4052
4053However, it is specifically because such fools exist that we must avoid giving them any chances. Major, you are our nation’s greatest asset.”
4054
4055Still, despite her enraged state of mind, Lina wasn’t so far gone that she forgot her etiquette training and completely ignored the words of a superior. Those remarks had been spoken for her sake.
4056
4057“It is impossible to send Major Sirius to Japan. However, it isn’t like we can just leave this matter unattended.”
4058
4059Virginia took in a breath and put power in her next sentence.
4060
4061“That is why, we will send Major Canopus. Major Sirius, is this alright?”
4062
4063“…Understood. I will be on standby for further orders.”
4064
4065Swallowing her dissatisfaction, she saluted Virginia.
4066
4067Virginia slowly nodded with a “very well”.
4068
4069“In that case I will start to explain in more detail the mission to Major Canopus. Major Sirius, you may leave.”
4070
4071“Yes. Then, pardon me, Colonel.”
4072
4073Even though a part of Lina had wanted to explain things directly to Canopus, she had no confidence that doing so wouldn’t generate jealousy, and that was why she obediently left.
4074
4075
4076
4077
4078
4079“——The situation is as stated above. Major Canopus, do you have any questions?”
4080
4081After having explained to Canopus everything, from the stolen missiles to “The Seven Sages” information, Virginia inquired so.
4082
4083“No, I don’t, Colonel.”
4084
4085It is unknown if there will indeed be an act of terrorism in Japan, and their only source of information had been the suspicious “Seven Sages” as well. Is there any dissatisfaction to being given a mission based on such ambiguous intelligence? That had been the nuance in Virginia’s earlier question, but neither a question nor a complaint came up from Canopus.
4086
4087“I see. In that case, Major Canopus, there is something I would like to ask you.”
4088
4089“Yes, what is it?”
4090
4091Even though Virginia carefully scrutinized Canopus’ expression, not even a brow of his twitched. Feeling relief more than disappointment, Virginia carefully continued.
4092
4093“Major Canopus, no, allow me to call you Major Benjamin Lowes here.”
4094
4095In the middle of Virginia’s question, Canopus’ eyebrows moved ever so slightly.
4096
4097“The Major is blood-related to the Assistant of the Deputy Chief of Staff, Mr. Kane Lowes, right?”
4098
4099“Yes. I think the Colonel is already aware but the Assistant of the Deputy Chief of Staff and my father are cousins, and he is my mother’s cousin-in-law.”
4100
4101In other words, he is connected to the Lowes’ Family both by blood and marriage, and with this kind of close relationship it wouldn’t be exaggerated to say he’s part of the upper echelons of society.
4102
4103“To tell you the truth, the information brought to us by ‘The Seven Sages’ isn’t limited to what I talked to you about earlier. I wish it was some kind of mistake but…”
4104
4105Seeing Virginia hesitate, Canopus’ expression moved a little.
4106
4107His expression had a faint “It can’t be?” feeling to it.
4108
4109“It would appear that both the acquisition of the missiles and the terrorists leaving the country with them has been accommodated by the Assistant of the Deputy Chief of Staff, Mr. Lowes.”
4110
4111“…Are you saying that the Assistant of the Deputy Chief of Staff has been corrupted by the terrorists?”
4112
4113To Canopus’ question, Virginia shook her head with a gloomy expression.
4114
4115“If that was all there was to it, it wouldn’t be so complicated.”
4116
4117“So that means there are other points of concern?”
4118
4119Virginia frowned before opening her mouth to answer.
4120
4121“Truth be told, the possibility that he and the Deputy Chief of Staff decided to make use of Jiedo Heigu is higher than the corruption hypothesis.”
4122
4123While Canopus couldn’t hide his shock, Virginia decided to ask him something seemingly unrelated to the matter at hand.
4124
4125“Major. What do you think about the Humanist Ideology?”
4126
4127A popular opinion was that “humans have to live only using human abilities”, or at least that is the doctrine that the anti-Magician Catholic cults go by. Again, this was a mere excuse to agitate the anti-Magician sentiment.
4128
4129However, Canopus’ answer would be even more concise.
4130
4131“Mass hysteria. Still, to effectively use this, it would require influence as well as extreme prudence, I think.”
4132
4133“As a Magician yourself, don’t you feel threatened by all of that?”
4134
4135“If it seemed like it was about to escalate then I do think some measures should be thought of. We Magicians have no reason to bow down to false charges after all.”
4136
4137“…You seem to possess pretty radical opinions.”
4138
4139“Colonel, you’re misunderstanding something. I only think that it would be dangerous for the citizens if society didn’t allow them self-defense.
4140
4141Those calumnious would-be victims incite racism and discrimination, something that has a high risk of breaking down any country, ours included, so we shouldn’t take it lightly.”
4142
4143“I understand your stance. But that is not the problem at hand.”
4144
4145While saying this, Virginia had an unpleasant expression.
4146
4147“Lowes, the Assistant of the Deputy Chief of Staff, has a different thought process but appears to have arrived at the same conclusion as you.”
4148
4149Even though Virginia was peering into Canopus’ expression, he kept a cool, if somewhat brazen, expression.
4150
4151“However, this is the country of freedom. It is a necessity to guarantee freedom of speech. No matter how good the cause, we cannot suppress it. At the very least, politicians think so.”
4152
4153“I agree with this, Colonel.”
4154
4155“…That is where the group Lowes belongs to decided to act, and they planned on giving the Humanists a target other than them, another country.”
4156
4157“So that they can perform their act of terrorism in Japan, and feel satisfied enough to not do it here as well?”
4158
4159“Your sarcasm is unneeded, Major. This is something I don’t agree with.”
4160
4161Virginia reproved with a sour look, a Canopus that was wearing a smile full of derision.
4162
4163“Forgive my rudeness, Colonel.”
4164
4165Thinking that he had gone too far, Canopus genuinely apologized.
4166
4167Seeing Canopus apologizing, Virginia realized that she might have been too high-strung herself and decided to resume the conversation.
4168
4169“Putting that aside, if the information given by ‘The Seven Sages’ is to be trusted, Lowes’ group’s objective isn’t even the terrorist act itself.”
4170
4171“In other words?”
4172
4173“It is nigh-impossible to limit the damage of a terrorist bombing to only the planned targets. Citizens will also unfortunately get involved in this.”
4174
4175“That is…”
4176
4177It was the first time since entering this room that Canopus wore such an expression.
4178
4179“With this kind of weaponry, it would be impossible to harm a Magician unless they were taken by surprise. However, if you were to prepare a bomb using tens of those missiles’ destructive power, it would be difficult even for Members of the Ten Master Clans of Japan. Although a high-ranked Magician could definitely survive the explosion with a heatproof barrier, the civilians who happen to be in the area wouldn’t have a chance. If the explosion came from all directions, then even protecting the innocent would be next to impossible. As a result, only the civilians would suffer casualties. This was the scenario envisioned by ‘The Seven Sages’.”
4180
4181“And since Magicians of Japan let innocent civilians die under their very eyes, the Humanists would take them as their new target. Their energy would be concentrated on Japan, thus, the anti-Magician movement in our own country would weaken. Moreover, the risk of Humanists resorting to radical measures out of frustration would decrease, is that it?”
4182
4183“Indeed.”
4184
4185Canopus’ eyes had a sharp light to them.
4186
4187“In that case, my mission will be to restrain Jiedo Heigu’s act of terrorism before it happens?”
4188
4189“What I ask of you is in fact much more than that.”
4190
4191Virginia took a provocative stance.
4192
4193“After last year’s Parasite Affair, the Japanese authorities definitely won’t see us in a good light. It will probably be impossible to capture Heigu on Japanese soil without alerting them. That will lead to an inquiry as to why we captured Heigu, and then they’ll discover the weapons he planned on using had come from us.
4194
4195However, if this act of terrorism actually succeeds, the origin of the used weapons will probably be discovered as well. I think that it would be much more disadvantageous to not stop it beforehand.
4196
4197The difference between losing weapons and having them purchased from a black market by a terrorist versus letting a terrorist steal our weapons is quite vast.”
4198
4199“…So we’re going to let innocent Japanese citizens be massacred?”
4200
4201“I have already secretly warned Japanese Magicians about Jiedo Heigu’s group of terrorists.”
4202
4203It wasn’t as if Canopus could completely agree with Virginia. However, he couldn’t dispute the fact that there was a need for the USNA Army to cover their position. Before being a Magician, Canopus was a military man. This fact was one of the biggest differences between him and the virtuous Lina.
4204
4205“Major. Your duty is not related to the execution of Jiedo Heigu’s act of terrorism, whether it is before it happens or afterwards, your mission is to assassinate him. His plans will probably still be realized even if he is killed, but you need not worry about that. According to ‘The Seven Sages’, Heigu doesn’t seem to be using aerial transports. If he is on the sea, you may use ‘loud’ means to get the work done. Do not allow the Japanese to capture him.”
4206
4207“Understood.”
4208
4209Faced with the image of a saluting Canopus accepting the duty bestowed upon him, Virginia couldn’t help but feel guilty.
4210
4211“Forgive me, Major. Even though we understand this kind of dirty work isn’t part of your duties, considering the possibility of our opponent being a peculiar Magician is high, we need to meet him with an eminent Magician of our own.”
4212
4213Canopus stopped saluting and without putting on a tough act, shook his head.
4214
4215“You need not worry yourself, Colonel. If anything, I would like to express my gratitude for choosing me. I do not want the High Commander… I don’t want Lina to suffer the pain of assassination work, as much as I can help it.”
4216
4217Saluting once again, Canopus left the commander’s room.
4218
4219
4220
4221
4222
4223Canopus arrived at the Japan-USNA Joint-Base of Yokosuka on January 29th, 1800 hours, Japan standard time.
4224
4225Due to the frequent wars throughout the world over a 20-year period, most countries decided to call back all their troops to their respective territories, thus, things like the U.S. Forces’ Bases in Japan had disappeared. However, after the U.S became the USNA, the alliance between them and Japan had continued, but changed. Each country installed bases on their lands, bases that could be used freely by the other nation. The base of Yokosuka was one of those. (That being said, those bases’ activities were close to nonexistent).
4226
4227Of course, the fact that the Stars First Unit Commander, Canopus, came to Japan remained a secret. Immediately after arriving, without even going out of the base, he went on a destroyer ship towards the sea.
4228
4229The warship that Canopus was on headed south, towards the Sagami Bay, and it passed by a small cruiser of 20 meters in the middle of the sea area between the Boso Peninsula and Oshima. Canopus jumped from the destroyer to the small cruiser when the two were close enough. This boat had been camouflaged using Optical Magic which could reflect even infrared rays. Although a faint shadow would probably appear on stratospheric surveillance cameras, discerning its identity should be impossible. With this, Canopus could be smuggled into the country safely.
4230
4231This small cruiser was originally something that the USNA embassy possessed for leisure purposes, thus, to use it for information gathering, its power output and the hull’s outer armor had been reinforced. Of course, cutting-edge sensors had been installed as well. Despite the fact that this cruiser didn’t have many weapons, so long as Canopus was on it, this wouldn’t be a problem at all.
4232
4233Canopus turned the cruiser towards Sagami Bay. The cruiser went south, following the Izu Peninsula, then at Cape Irozaki turned north towards the Suruga Bay. Due in part to the slow speed at which he sailed, it was already nearing midnight when he found the target ship.
4234
4235It was a small freighter which had its deck entirely covered with solar panels. When sailing, the arms on each of the sides of the hull would open up, like a Tobiuo’s wings, and the thin solar films would then increase the power generation. This auxiliary power source uses a photocatalytic hydrogen production model built into a regular fuel cell, and with nearly all the energy required coming from the sun, this type of freighter had become the main transport model in the latter half of the 21st century.
4236
4237This freighter had been mentioned along with the presumed date at which Jiedo Heigu left the USNA. However, this ship was supposed to arrive yesterday in Japan. That is why the ship’s inspection was unnecessary, so they decided to search the port at which it had anchored.
4238
4239“Major, is it that ship?”
4240
4241The captain of the ship who served as an officer in the USNA’s Marine Corps talked to Canopus with a mix of awe and fear in his voice. As a temporary subordinate under his command for this mission, he had been told about Canopus’ background. The Stars were already a unit whose reputation was close to that of legendary, and factor in that he was now talking to one of its best field officers, and you get that result. Albeit, this captain wasn’t aware that “Canopus” the Number 2, was right behind “Sirius”, so he didn’t need to be that tense. If he had been aware of Canopus’ rank, it was quite possible that he wouldn’t have been able to focus on his work to begin with.
4242
4243To the captain’s question, Canopus expressed a bitter smile. Seeing this smile without an ounce of intimidation or malice, the captain’s tension softened a little.
4244
4245“My apologies but ships really aren’t my forté. You guys should have much more expertise on this subject than I do, right?”
4246
4247Understanding that Canopus implicitly asked “Isn’t this something you of all people should bring answers to?”, the captain straightened his spine.
4248
4249“Pardon me, Sir. There is no mistake that this is the ship in question.”
4250
4251“Of course, I will trust you on this matter.”
4252
4253Canopus adopted a serious look and nodded, and a breath of relief escaped from the captain’s lips.
4254
4255“Captain.”
4256
4257“Yes, Major?”
4258
4259The captain answered with a tone fitting of the serious expression Canopus was wearing.
4260
4261“Keep that ship under surveillance. Since Heigu brought this ship all the way from Yokosuka to Numazu, he might be tempted to use it again to escape.”
4262
4263“Understood. I will immediately contact local agents.”
4264
4265“We will continue observing the vessel tonight.”
4266
4267“Major, aren’t you going to the mainland?”
4268
4269“We’re already past the planned time for landing. If we are to successfully complete this mission, we must avoid drawing attention as much as possible.”
4270
4271“Sir, yes, sir!”
4272
4273Nodding silently, Canopus turned his attention towards the freighter.
4274
4275
4276
4277
4278
4279Persuaded by Virginia, Lina graciously decided to give up on going to Japan. She thought that sending Canopus wasn’t a mistake. Thinking about it, if they were to exclude Heavy Metal Burst, he might even be stronger than her, Sirius, since he was a veteran combat Magician. Lina kept repeating to herself that he never failed his duties.
4280
4281Still, Lina had come to a point where it was unbearable to not do anything.
4282
4283“…It’s true, I cannot do anything. I have to obediently remain here.
4284
4285However, if it’s about warning a fri… an acquaintance, then there should be no problem!”
4286
4287Despite the fact that no one was listening to her monologue, she felt the need to hurriedly correct herself before she could utter the word “friend”.
4288
4289Looking left and right with a red face, no matter how you looked at it, it was her excessive self-consciousness.
4290
4291Was she aware that her actions were a bit childish? Lina cleared her throat——which was quite a cutesy act in and of itself anyway——and looked towards the vision console.
4292
4293It was currently two hours past midnight. In other words, that meant Lina had been worrying until that time, but it also meant that it was just six o’clock in Japan. Even though that wasn’t planned at all, it was just what she hoped for.
4294
4295Although she had decided to phone them, if she gave herself the time to hesitate, it would have been too late. Lina psyched herself up in front of the console and dialed Miyuki’s number.
4296
4297After five blips, the screen’s light turned on. Looking at the display, her rival appeared, and compared to a year ago, her beauty had even further increased.
4298
4299[My! Lina, it’s been a while.]
4300
4301Neither envy, fear, reverence nor admiration transpired from her gaze, and she was only looking at the person named “Angelina”. Lina remembered the illusion of the water concealing her heart melting away.
4302
4303“Hello, Miyuki. It’s been awhile indeed. Is everything going well?”
4304
4305[Yes, thanks to you. Did you lose some weight I wonder? Are you alright? Aren’t you busy with your work?]
4306
4307Calling her role as the Stars’ High Commander, the duty of the Sirius, as just “work”. This spontaneous boldness gave Lina pleasant feelings.
4308
4309“My weight actually increased you know? Maybe I became more muscular.”
4310
4311[Hmm… It looks like you did shape up a bit. I’m a little jealous.]
4312
4313“Miyuki… I told you that when someone such as yourself talks like that, it sounds like sarcasm. Moreover, what’s up with you? Getting even more beautiful like that. When are you going to feel satisfied and stop?”
4314
4315[I could say the same to you, it really sounds like sarcasm when you say such things… If it seems like I look beautiful, then it’s only because of Onii-sama.]
4316
4317Lina suddenly had dejected feelings. Really, if the situation had been different… such thoughts wandered in Lina’s head, feelings of disappointment.
4318
4319“…Ah that’s true, Miyuki is now engaged to Tatsuya, right. Congratulations.”
4320
4321[Thank you very much, Lina. Still, the news spread pretty fast it seems.]
4322
4323“Well, we’re talking about the ‘Princess’ of the Yotsuba. It’s normal to bear an interest.”
4324
4325[Is that true? Then could it be that Lina called to congratulate us?]
4326
4327Lina was taken aback by Miyuki’s happy smile. And with this she remembered the purpose of her call.
4328
4329“Umm, no, sorry. It’s not really for that.”
4330
4331Hearing Lina’s apology, Miyuki slightly cocked her head to the side, but rather than being ill-humored, she was puzzled.
4332
4333[Oh my, in that case, is it an important matter?]
4334
4335Lina wanted to ask why Miyuki would show her such a cutesy face, but refrained from doing so and swallowed her retort.
4336
4337“Indeed. It’s probably a very important matter.”
4338
4339[…Would it be better if I called Onii-sama I wonder?]
4340
4341Thinking for less than a second, Lina nodded her head at Miyuki’s proposal.
4342
4343“Yes. It would be better for Tatsuya to hear this as well.”
4344
4345[Please, wait for a moment.]
4346
4347The screen entered suspension mode.
4348
4349It took roughly three seconds for the display to turn on again, and for Miyuki’s beautiful figure to reappear.
4350
4351[Lina, long time no see.]
4352
4353“Yes, Tatsuya. It has been a long time.”
4354
4355Tatsuya was sitting next to Miyuki. To Lina’s surprise, the distance between Tatsuya and Miyuki wasn’t zero.
4356
4357[I guess this would be the time where we slowly talk about how things have been going around each other, but you seem to have important business to talk about. Let’s leave the friendship talk for the next time, then. What did you want to consult us about.]
4358
4359“You haven’t changed, Tatsuya. I must say, I like that straightforward personality of yours.”
4360
4361Immediately after saying this, Lina thought “Damn it”. Using “I like” to qualify an aspect of Tatsuya while Miyuki is right next to him, isn’t that like pouring fuel on the already lit fire that is called “Miyuki’s jealousy”.
4362
4363However, once again unexpectedly, Miyuki remained calm and composed.
4364
4365This was incredibly eerie to Lina.
4366
4367“Umm… Miyuki. Aren’t you angry?”
4368
4369[Eh, about what?]
4370
4371Miyuki replied with a face that explicitly told she had no idea what Lina was talking about.
4372
4373From Miyuki’s point of view, it was natural that other women would be attracted to him, or at least find likeable points about him, so there was no reason to get angry about such trivial matters. Lina wasn’t aware of that fact however.
4374
4375“Well, let’s forget about it.”
4376
4377If she doesn’t care about it then there’s no reason to press the issue.
4378
4379Thanks to that, Lina was able to get down to business.
4380
4381“Tatsuya, Miyuki, do you remember about ‘The Seven Sages’?”
4382
4383Tatsuya and Miyuki looked at each other.
4384
4385[We remember.]
4386
4387The one who answered was Tatsuya.
4388
4389[Have you received some information from those Seven Sages?]
4390
4391While picturing Raymond Clark’s face, Tatsuya asked Lina this question. There should be no way for her to know about “The Seven Sages” identity. Never mind that Raymond was one of them.
4392
4393“Spot on.”
4394
4395As Lina didn’t have any telepathy or unusual mind powers, she couldn’t see what image went through Tatsuya’s mind at the moment. Lina also didn’t have observation powers on a level where she could see through Tatsuya’s poker face.
4396
4397“According to the information we received from them, remnants of Dahan have planned an act of terrorism in Japan.”
4398
4399Having received an answer to her own question, she answered Tatsuya’s.
4400
4401“The Mastermind is someone named Jiedo Heigu. His Chinese name is Gu Jie. He is a presumed surviving Magician from the Kunlunfang Institute… What’s wrong Miyuki?”
4402
4403Miyuki was about to raise her voice but quickly held it in, and having seen that, Lina inquired for the reason of her response.
4404
4405[The name Kunlunfang Institute holds a very special meaning for us… Forgive me for interrupting you.]
4406
4407The truth was that they had heard this name already from Raymond, that he was another member of “The Seven Sages”, Miyuki quickly covered up with a lie as Tatsuya didn’t have any reaction.
4408
4409“Ah, I see…”
4410
4411Lina knew about the connection between the Yotsuba and the Kunlunfang Institute. Considering it normal for the Yotsuba Successor to react vividly at the mention of a “Kunlunfang Institute Survivor”, Lina didn’t press the issue.
4412
4413“You might have already guessed, but we think that the possibility of the Yotsuba being Heigu’s target is pretty high.”
4414
4415[I see. Indeed, this line of thought seems to be the most plausible. Is that the reason Lina contacted Miyuki?]
4416
4417“W-well, yeah, that’s how it is.”
4418
4419Hearing Tatsuya say “I think the same”, Lina started to blush without any particular reason.
4420
4421[It’s true that both Miyuki and I are related to this matter. There is also the possibility that Miyuki would be directly targeted.]
4422
4423“Tatsuya… Don’t talk as if it’s someone else’s problem. There is a possibility that you could become a target as well.”
4424
4425To a Lina who stated so with an amazed voice,
4426
4427[It would be convenient if I was their target.]
4428
4429Tatsuya answered with a fearless expression.
4430
4431“…Well, I guess so. If they make you their target, I guess things would be wrapped up in short order.”
4432
4433Hearing his answer, Lina instinctively consented.
4434
4435Even Lina didn’t understand the extent of Tatsuya’s true power. Even though, at first, she had thought that he was a Magician skilled in Mental-Interference Magic, she came to doubt that assessment during their final battle with the Parasites.
4436
4437In a word, Tatsuya was, and still is a mysterious Magician. However, if anything, Lina couldn’t question his ability. Lina couldn’t even imagine how Magicians who had no choice but to rely on the little missiles they stole would go about dealing Tatsuya.
4438
4439[Lina, what’s wrong? You have the face of someone who just lost all her worries.]
4440
4441Lina violently jumped up at Miyuki casually revealing her thoughts.
4442
4443Why was she feeling so relieved after confirming that Tatsuya wouldn’t be done in so easily.
4444
4445“No, well, you know.”
4446
4447Hampered by the noisy sound her heart was making, she couldn’t form a proper sentence.
4448
4449“You see, how should I say it…”
4450
4451Looking at the wry smile of Tatsuya, Lina remembered how irritating it could be.
4452
4453“Ah, geez! See, to sum up, I just wanted to.”
4454
4455To tell you about Heigu, was what she was about to say, but she managed to seal her lips right before saying it.
4456
4457[I see… In other words, you were in such a hurry to tell us about Heigu that once you did what you called for, you felt relieved, is that it?]
4458
4459“Yeah, that’s right!”
4460
4461Lina showed quite the grand reaction to the figurative lifeboat that Tatsuya sent her.
4462
4463“Ah…”
4464
4465While Lina was rapidly getting redder,
4466
4467[I see. Lina, thank you very much.]
4468
4469Tatsuya ignored it and expressed his thanks to Lina.
4470
4471“Y-you don’t need to thank me! I just thought that if I didn’t tell you guys I’d have trouble sleeping, that’s all! Well then, Tatsuya, Miyuki, good night!”
4472
4473Forgetting the time difference between their countries, Lina cut off the transmission after rapidly saying her goodbye.
4474
4475She violently took off her clothes and slipped between the sheets without even putting on her pajamas.
4476
4477
4478
4479
4480
4481Chapter 5
4482
4483
4484
4485
4486A week had passed since Tatsuya and Miyuki had received that phone call from Lina.
4487
4488Lina’s communication had been last Tuesday, and since today was Monday, six days had passed. There were still no clues about the terrorist attack or Heigu. This was the case not only for Tatsuya, but also Maya and Canopus as well, none of whom had made progress in the search for Heigu.
4489
4490Furthermore, today was February 4th. The Master Clans Conference would be held in two days’ time.
4491
4492The Master Clans Conference is the summit for the Japanese Magic Community. Even for Ancient Magicians who didn’t even accept the Ten Master Clans as the Leaders of Magicians, they couldn’t deny the influence of the Master Clans Conference. Especially this year, the Ten Master Clans Selection Meeting would be held on the second day. It would decide the next Ten Master Clans for the next 4 years, which heightened the Magician’s concerns even more.
4493
4494The students of First High, too, were restless since early morning.
4495
4496Though they were only High School Students, being Magicians themselves, they couldn’t help being concerned. Especially for people who are related to the Ten Master Clans and the 18 Assistant Houses, or people associated with the Ten Master Clans whose probability for selection was low, were anxious to the point of being incapable of concentrating in school.
4497
4498As Miyuki entered Class 2-A, the students reacted by freezing in shock, and silence fell upon the room.
4499
4500“Good morning, Shizuku, Honoka.”
4501
4502Miyuki greeted Shizuku in the seat in front and Honoka standing adjacent to Shizuku. With a greeting, she removed the spell on her classmates.
4503
4504“Miyuki!? Why did you come to school!?”
4505
4506Honoka let out a voice similar to a scream. With that, Class 2-A was filled with the loud buzz of commotion.
4507
4508“Why… Isn’t today a weekday. For a High School Student to come to school is a given, isn’t it? Or since when have I been ostracized by my friends? Or could it be bullying?”
4509
4510Miyuki tilted her head with one hand on her cheek, making a troubled expression.
4511
4512In response to the unexpected counter-attack, Honoka was bewildered.
4513
4514Shizuku too had a face which indicated that she had no idea as to how she could assist her.
4515
4516However, the troubles of the two did not continue for long.
4517
4518“I apologize, that was a joke.”
4519
4520A quick smile slipped out of Miyuki that turned into a giggle.
4521
4522“I thought you would be absent? Today’s the Master Clans Conference after all.”
4523
4524“Y-Yeah!”
4525
4526Honoka who followed-up, anxiously drew closer to Miyuki.
4527
4528“Miyuki, is it fine to not go to the Conference? After all, this time, they’re holding the selection meeting, too? Since you’re the successor, ah…”
4529
4530Honoka covered her mouth with her hand, showing an expression that she messed up.
4531
4532The classmates who heard this, turned away all at once.
4533
4534“Even though I would prefer it if you weren’t so bothered about it…”
4535
4536Miyuki put on a smile of embarrassment. But the classmates who, until recently, were concerned about her, couldn’t help but worry about her attendance.
4537
4538“So Miyuki, is it okay to not go?”
4539
4540Following Miyuki’s statement, Shizuku asked a rather bland question to break the sour mood.
4541
4542“Well, I wasn’t invited to go.”
4543
4544As Miyuki answered while smiling, gazes which seemed to say “Eh?” gathered around her.
4545
4546“I wonder if Honoka and Shizuku don’t know this. The venue of the Master Clans Conference is a secret to everyone except the attendees. For the 18 Assistant Houses attending the Selection Meeting, as of today, they are only informed about the approximate location, with the specifics about the room being used still unknown.”
4547
4548“But Miyuki is…”
4549
4550To Honoka revealing her surprise, Miyuki pleasantly smiled.
4551
4552It paralyzed Honoka’s tongue and throat.
4553
4554“I wasn’t invited. Thus, I don’t even know where the meeting will take place. It’s not that I take no interest in the contents of the meeting but if I don’t even know the general location, there’s no way I can go, right?”
4555
4556“That’s true.”
4557
4558In place of Honoka who had started blushing quietly, Shizuku nodded in agreement to Miyuki’s words.
4559
4560
4561
4562
4563
4564At the same time, something similar was happening in Class 2-E.
4565
4566“Hmm? Tatsuya-san, why did you come to school?”
4567
4568“Good morning, Mizuki. To greet me with such a question in the morning.”
4569
4570“Eh, ah, no, about that… I’m sorry.”
4571
4572It wasn’t that Tatsuya particularly felt uncomfortable but for him to say such a thing was natural. Tatsuya had never taken long periods of absence from school, so to be questioned, “Why did you come to school”, on a Monday, the question coming out of nowhere was nothing less than a rarity.
4573
4574But on this day, it wasn’t just Mizuki who seemed to have forgotten her common sense.
4575
4576“Tatsuya-kun, is it alright for you to come to school!?”
4577
4578Opening the window noisily, Erika cried out loud without any prior greeting.
4579
4580“Erika… why do you all want me to be absent?”
4581
4582The sight of Tatsuya frowning in displeasure, beside an embarrassed Mizuki entered Erika’s sight.
4583
4584“A, ahahahahahahaha.”
4585
4586Realizing her attitude to be a little senseless, she revealed a false smile.
4587
4588Some things were impossible, even for her.
4589
4590“But still, Tatsuya. Isn’t today the start of the Master Clans Conference? Is it fine to not go there?”
4591
4592Fortunately for Erika, she wasn’t the only one who dared to venture into the minefield.
4593
4594“Why would you want to know?”
4595
4596In response to Leo’s question, without trying to play the fool, Tatsuya curiously asked a question of his own.
4597
4598“I think that to not be interested would be strange.”
4599
4600As Erika replied to Tatsuya’s question, Leo nodded his head in agreement.
4601
4602“These two are really getting along now,” Tatsuya thought while putting out another question.
4603
4604“As I said, why? Well, it does seem the amount of interested people is rather numerous but…”
4605
4606While saying that, Tatsuya glanced backwards, and his classmates hurriedly averted their eyes.
4607
4608“If you think that my relation to the Yotsuba Family is a good enough reason, then you would be mistaken. Just because a person is blood-related to the Ten Master Clans does not mean he or she can participate in the Master Clans Conference. For example, as the successor of the Juumonji Family, Juumonji-senpai attending is a given but, Saegusa-senpai is unlikely to be attending.”
4609
4610“…So that’s how it works?”
4611
4612Leo wore a face that lost interest. Conversely, Erika had an expression that seemed to express her content.
4613
4614“Therefore, even if I did know the location of the conference, I’m not interested in going. In the middle of the conference, rather than to be bored waiting, it would be more beneficial to go to school and take lessons.”
4615
4616“But still, aren’t you interested in the contents discussed in the Master Clans Conference?”
4617
4618“I’m not allowed to attend, so even if I wanted to go now, I have no way of doing so. All the results of the conference will be publicized. There’s no way for me to know the process of the discussion.”
4619
4620“Haa… in the end, we only need to follow the announcement huh?”
4621
4622“That is indeed the case.”
4623
4624If the discussion ended here, it would have been resolved under the category of small talk.
4625
4626“In the end, powerless small fry Magicians can only follow something you decided? That sounds like something Ten Master Clans-sama would say.”
4627
4628A loud monologue resounded throughout the quiet classroom which had been listening to Tatsuya.
4629
4630The source was diagonally behind Tatsuya. More accurately, it was diagonally behind Mizuki.
4631
4632“What? You have something you want to say?”
4633
4634Using her sharp eyes, Erika glared at Hirakawa Chiaki, the student who had voiced such words.
4635
4636Chiaki didn’t answer Erika’s question. If that was the extent of her reaction, it would have ended fine. But, Chiaki looked away.
4637
4638Erika’s eyes twitched upwards at the provocation.
4639
4640Erika, who was at the window, walked in through the door. Then, she headed towards Chiaki.
4641
4642“Wait a moment! Chiba-san, calm down!”
4643
4644The one who hastily blocked Erika’s way was a male student.
4645
4646Not yielding to Erika’s spirit, he tried to resolve the situation peacefully as if he was the class rep. The student in question was Tomitsuka, a man who fit the definition of a worry-wart.
4647
4648“Tomitsuka-kun, could you stand down? I have something to say to that girl.”
4649
4650“No, that will definitely end badly!”
4651
4652Tomitsuka, who certainly understood what Erika meant by “something to say”, tried desperately to dissuade Erika.
4653
4654But, as if to ruin his efforts, Chiaki stood up behind Tomitsuka.
4655
4656“Isn’t it true?”
4657
4658“What?”
4659
4660Over the shoulder of Tomitsuka, the two girls glared at each other.
4661
4662“Chiba-san, err, lessons will be starting soon…?”
4663
4664Acting like a shield for Chiaki, Tomitsuka still tried to arbitrate the issue.
4665
4666“There’s still 5 minutes.”
4667
4668But was tragically shot down.
4669
4670“So, Hirakawa-san, answer me?”
4671
4672The intensity of Erika’s gaze was such that it could even cause a grown man to shudder.
4673
4674Chiaki’s knees were currently trembling, but she still bravely replied.
4675
4676“The fact he’s related to the Ten Master Clans! Are you telling me I’m wrong?!”
4677
4678“And? It may be true that Tatsuya-kun is related to the Ten Master Clans, so what? Even if someone’s parents are from the Ten Master Clans, the children aren’t necessarily involved as well.”
4679
4680“Sophistry. Chicanery. Being a member of the Yotsuba Family behind our backs, he hid it and deceived us!”
4681
4682“Perhaps a young girl who was fortunately brought up in a normal household may not know, but children who do not take their parents’ surnames is not a rare occurrence in the Magician Community.”
4683
4684Chiaki’s tongue was tied and she was unable to reply due to the fact she knew Erika was telling the truth. That fact was common knowledge.
4685
4686“Wha-Why…”
4687
4688“Nn? If you have something you want to say, just be out with it.”
4689
4690Erika’s contemptuous tone angered Chiaki. Rage broke any reason left in her.
4691
4692“Chiba-san, why are you getting angry because of that guy!? Do you like him or something!?”
4693
4694The classmates who had been spectating the argument frowned. This was because Chiaki’s reasoning was sorely lacking in dignity for a High School Student. To put it crudely, “Whether someone likes someone or not, what does it matter? Aren’t you being an idiot?” was what they felt.
4695
4696“Are you an idiot?”
4697
4698Erika spoke those thoughts aloud.
4699
4700“Do I like Tatsuya-kun? I’m not so reckless.”
4701
4702Hearing Erika’s objection the students of Class 2-E tilted their necks in puzzlement.
4703
4704“To be a love rival against Miyuki, I’ve seen the horrors it can bring. I’d rather not risk my life in such a dangerous scenario for love.”
4705
4706If Miyuki had heard her, the situation wouldn’t have ended so simply.
4707
4708Even sympathizing with that statement would be dangerous. But, excluding Tatsuya, Chiaki and Tomitsuka——In short the spectating students of Class 2-E——deeply nodded in agreement at Erika’s words.
4709
4710“Ah, to seriously argue against such a dolt, I must look like quite the fool.”
4711
4712Saying that, Erika briskly walked out.
4713
4714“Tatsuya-kun, I’ll be returning. See you next time.”
4715
4716“Ah, see you next time.”
4717
4718Returning a wave to Tatsuya, she smiled and left Class 2-E.
4719
4720The end result was that Chiaki successfully drove off Erika.
4721
4722But Chiaki was left standing and trembling in embarrassment.
4723
4724
4725
4726
4727
4728For High School Students, the conference might seem like something casual, but for the participating adults, the Master Clans Conference is nothing less than a serious duel, which concerned their very lives.
4729
4730The venue was in Hakone, held in a rented conference room in a luxurious hotel. As the start of the meeting approached, the seats of the round table were filled.
4731
4732Casually dressed in a copper brown sweater, that wrapped his tall and sunburnt body, was the cutthroat Head of the Ichijou Family, Ichijou Gouki. Residing in Kanazawa, he had recently celebrated his 42nd birthday a few days ago. His occupation was being a Seabed Mining Company President.
4733
4734With her hair tied up, and donning an elegant kimono, was the Head of the Futatsugi Family, Futatsugi Mai. Residing in Ashiya, 55 years old. She was a major shareholder of a Food Industry Company.
4735
4736Wearing a jacket on top of a polo shirt, coupled with a rough look, was the petite yet athletic middle-aged Head of the Mitsuya Family, Mitsuya Gen. Residing in Atsugi, 53 years old. He, for lack of a nice way of putting it, was an International Arms Dealer.
4737
4738Enveloped in a wine red formal one piece was the beautiful Head of the Yotsuba Family, Yotsuba Maya. No matter how one looked at it she looked to be only 30 years of age, but she is actually 47 years old.
4739
4740Neatly dressed but also having a plain appearance, like an unrefined businessman was the Head of the Itsuwa Family, Itsuwa Isami. Residing in Uwajima, 49 years old. He was the director and the owner, of a Shipping Company.
4741
4742Short, yet straight, brown hair, and wearing a pantsuit, the glamorous woman was the Head of the Mutsuzuka Family, Mutsuzuka Atsuko. Residing in Sendai, 29 years old. She was the owner of a Geothermal Power Plant Excavation Company.
4743
4744Somewhat old fashioned and reminiscent of the elite businessmen of the 1980’s to 1990’s, was the Head of the Saegusa Family, Saegusa Kouichi. Residing in Tokyo, 48 years old. Wearing lightly colored spectacles, even indoors, was a characteristic trait of his. He is a Venture Capitalist.
4745
4746Wearing a three-piece suit without a tie and his hair gathered up, was the Head of the Yatsushiro Family, Yatsushiro Raizou. Residing in Fukuoka, 31 years old. He was a lecturer in at a university and a major shareholder of a Multi-Communication Company.
4747
4748Dressed in an overseas brand three-piece, the white-haired gentleman was the Head of the Kudou Family, Kudou Makoto. Residing in Ikoma, 64 years old. He was the shareholder, investor and creditor of various Military Industrial Companies.
4749
4750The bald man in full formal Japanese attire, a haori hakama, was the Head of the Juumonji Family, Juumonji Kazuki. Residing in Tokyo, 44 years old. He was the owner of a Civil Engineering and Construction Company that has a connection with the National Defense Force.
4751
4752These were the current Ten Master Clans, and their respective Heads. In addition, only Juumonji Kazuki was accompanied by his son, Katsuto.
4753
4754Once all the members were present, the door closed. The one who locked the door was the youngest of them all, Katsuto.
4755
4756“Juumonji-dono, has your condition improved?”
4757
4758The first to speak was the eldest, Kudou Makoto.
4759
4760All Families were equal within the Ten Master Clans. There was no hierarchy of any sort. Such a belief was obvious due to the usage of a round table in the hotel.
4761
4762But to carry out a meeting without a chairperson was unconducive. So among the Family Heads, it had become an unwritten law that the eldest would have the role of facilitating the meeting.
4763
4764Makoto inquiring about Juumonji Kazuki’s health condition was due to the fact that previously he had been absent from the Master Clans Conference, with Katsuto going in his place. For the other Heads, it had been actually 3 years since their last meeting with Kazuki.
4765
4766“In regards to that, I have an announcement to make to everyone.”
4767
4768Hearing Makoto’s words, Kazuki stood up. Speaking while seating was the standard in the Master Clans Conference so his attitude seemed to give the feeling that it was an important announcement.
4769
4770“This may be sudden but, I, Juumonji Kazuki, will use this meeting as a means of handing over the seat of Head of the Juumonji Family to my son Katsuto. With that in mind, I would like all of you present to bear witness.”
4771
4772Exchanging glances with surrounding members, while staring at Kazuki, each Head had varied responses but, not one of them freely chattered.
4773
4774“That is quite a brash thing to say.”
4775
4776Makoto said on behalf of all the other members present.
4777
4778“I have been considering this for quite some time. Having reached adulthood, I believe Katsuto has also been thinking about it. Occupying the seat of the Head and having no ability as a Magician… such a thing, not only speaking for the Juumonji Family, but for the Ten Master Clans, would not be desirable. Thus I’ve made such a decision.”
4779
4780“You mean to say, you can no longer use magic?”
4781
4782The person who asked this was Ichijou Gouki. In the Master Clans Conference, difficult topics that had to be broached were numerous.
4783
4784“Since 3 years ago, I have been suffering from a disease that has caused a decline in my magic power. 2 years ago, I was at the stage where I could no longer fight, as such virtually left all the duties of being Head to Katsuto. And then 3 months ago, I lost all use of my magical abilities.”
4785
4786Kazuki’s explosive message reverberated amongst everyone.
4787
4788“A sickness that causes a decline in magic? This is the first time I heard of such a thing. I know this is impolite but, as a Magician this is a big problem. Do you have more information? Are there no cures?”
4789
4790The person asking was Saegusa Kouichi. For him, when in the Master Clans Conference, talking came first and the debate second.
4791
4792“Saegusa-dono, such a worry is unnecessary. For it is unique to the Juumonji Family.”
4793
4794“Unique only to your family? Are you sure?”
4795
4796“Saegusa-dono.”
4797
4798As Kouichi tried to question further, he was softly chided by Maya.
4799
4800“It would be better if you refrain from asking anything more than that.”
4801
4802“That is true. Do not pry into the business of other families. That is a rule not only followed by the Ten Master Clans, but the Magic Community as a whole. It is as Yotsuba-dono says, shall we cease such questioning? Juumonji-dono has already said that Magicians of other families will not catch such a disease, isn’t that good enough?”
4803
4804Futatsugi Mai followed up on Maya’s opinion. After Kudou Makoto, as the next eldest, she held the role of being the arbitrator during the Master Clans Conference.
4805
4806“Very well, I understand. Juumonji-dono, I apologize for my actions.”
4807
4808Kouichi withdrew quietly. Let alone Maya, he had no reason to be stubborn towards Mai.
4809
4810“No, I don’t really mind it.”
4811
4812As Kouichi replied as such, Kazuki faced Maya and Mai and showed gratitude with his eyes.
4813
4814“Now then, everyone. Are there any opinions about the Juumonji’s Succession?”
4815
4816About Kazuki’s question,
4817
4818“Even without our presence, I know it would be fine for the Juumonji’s Family matters to be settled internally, but… I have no objections. I would happily bear witness to the succession of Katsuto-dono.”
4819
4820“I too have no objections. Rather, I think it’s quite an honor. I would happily be a witness.”
4821
4822As Maya raised her volume, Mutsuzuka Atsuko continued. Atsuko had an admiration for Maya, so often when disputes broke out, she would often take Maya’s side. One of the Yotsuba Branch Families, the Shibata Family’s eldest son, Katsushige commuted to Sendai’s Fifth High School. Such a thing was partially due to the friendliness of Atsuko to Maya.
4823
4824“I have no intention to protest against other family’s succession matters. I wish Katsuto-dono the best of luck in his future role as the Head. It’s unfortunate for Kazuki-dono, but, for putting forth so much effort for the Japanese Magic Community, thank you for your hard work.”
4825
4826Perhaps because of what happened earlier, Kouichi actively showed his support.
4827
4828With both Maya and Kouichi accepting Kazuki’s proposal in concert, the remaining Heads congratulated Katsuto, and gave words of appreciation for Kazuki.
4829
4830“Now Katsuto-dono. As the new Head of the Juumonji Family, please sit in that seat.”
4831
4832Lastly, Makoto prompted Katsuto, recognizing him as the Head of the Juumonji Family.
4833
4834
4835
4836
4837
4838Sent by Katsuto to this room, Kazuki left the room, Katsuto sat in the seat for the Head of the Juumonji Family. With that adjustment, the Master Clans Conference began.
4839
4840“Then Ichijou-dono.”
4841
4842“The mountain recesses of the Hokuriku-San’in regions have seen no movement that might become a problem. There have been no signs observed that the New Soviet Union and the Great Asian Alliance are working on an intrusion.”
4843
4844Prompted by Makoto, Gouki made a report on the observations of the activities of opposing governments.
4845
4846“Mutsuzuka-dono.”
4847
4848“The Tōhoku region has seen no irregularities.”
4849
4850“Futatsugi-dono.”
4851
4852“Hanshin is as usual. Should there be any eyesores, I will immediately set out to clean it up.”
4853
4854“…Futatsugi-dono, be careful. Itsuwa-dono.”
4855
4856“No movements have been observed in the Shikoku region.”
4857
4858“Yatsushiro-dono.”
4859
4860“Much like the Hanshin region, the Kitakyushu region is as usual.”
4861
4862“Is that so? Keep a look out and be careful.”
4863
4864This report was in regards to the activities in the areas which each family was in charge of. The Hokkaidō, Ogasawara and Okinawa regions were under the jurisdiction of the Magicians from the National Defense Forces, even the Ten Master Clans could not raise a hand so easily.
4865
4866Other than those areas, the mountain areas of the Hokuriku-San’in region is under the Ichijou Family, Tōhoku the Mutsuzuka Family, Hanshin-Chūgoku the Futatsugi Family, Shikoku the Itsuwa Family, the Kyushu area excluding Okinawa was under the Yatsushiro Family, and Kyōto—Nara-Shiga-Kii the Kudou Family. Furthermore, the Mitsuya Family actively provided the know-how to the Magicians of the Defense Forces and of the applications of the Third Research Laboratory, while cooperating with the other Houses of the “Three”.
4867
4868The Saegusa Family as well as the Juumonji Family were in charge of the Kantō region, including Izu, while the Yotsuba Family is in charge of Tōkai as well as the Gifu-Nagano Prefectures.
4869
4870“Saegusa-dono.”
4871
4872“The Kantō region has had an increase in anti-Magician activities. It’s not at the level where interference is necessary, but I think sooner or later we will have to make a move. Also, there was some suspicious activity in Yokosuka. Perhaps they are planning sabotage.”
4873
4874“Does Juumonji-dono share the same thoughts?”
4875
4876“In regards to the anti-Magician movement, the Juumonji Family and I share the same opinion as Saegusa-dono. In regards to the saboteur, it is unfortunate, but we couldn’t catch him.”
4877
4878“Hmm. Regarding the so-called Humanists, let’s discuss this later. Then, Yotsuba-dono.”
4879
4880“While absent in Kantō, the Humanists have begun encroaching upon Tōkai. Now then, Saegusa-dono, Juumonji-dono.”
4881
4882“Yotsuba-dono, what is it?”
4883
4884Addressed by Maya, Kouichi answered with a smile. In that smile, elements other than sociability were slightly mixed in. The only time Kouichi would show a fluctuation of any emotion was when the other member of the conversation was Maya.
4885
4886For Maya, she had never directed a gaze of concern towards Kouichi.
4887
4888No matter what, she would always return a look that seemed to say whatever.
4889
4890“There is suspicious activity in Izu. We propose tighter surveillance.”
4891
4892Now was no exception. Glancing coldly and uninterestedly at Kouichi, the eye that seemed to ask why are you looking at me, then only gave a perfunctory reply.
4893
4894“I understand. If you don’t mind, could you explain a little as to what kind of activity it was.”
4895
4896The one who said so in a dignified voice was Katsuto. Though surrounded by seniors, he seemed to be indifferent to such a fact.
4897
4898“I don’t mind. Last week, a small cargo ship that arrived at the Yokosuka Port via the North American route is currently anchored at the Numazu Port. We were observing that cruiser owned by the USNA Embassy. As of now, the embassy’s cruiser disappeared but, our surveillance of the cargo ship is still continued.
4899
4900“Yotsuba-dono, do you know of the whereabouts of the cruiser?”
4901
4902Kouichi posed another question towards Maya.
4903
4904“I don’t know. Perhaps it is at sea.”
4905
4906Though it seemed like Maya gave an irresponsible reply, originally it was supposed to be Kouichi that was responsible for investigating. The Juumonji Family is better suited for combat. so even though both were in charge of the Kanto-Izu region, the Saegusa Family was in charge of the investigation work.
4907
4908“Very well, our family will investigate this issue. With the increase in anti-Magician activity… if that cargo ship has humanist passengers, then the USNA authorities might chase it as well. Numazu is Yotsuba-dono’s territory but, the issue is that ship entered the harbor of Yokosuka. Our family will continue to pursue this as well.”
4909
4910Obviously understanding that, Kouichi summarized the situation flawlessly.
4911
4912“Eh, I look forward to working with you.”
4913
4914Nodding, Maya did not further discuss the topic of Heigu’s boat and Canopus’ cruiser.
4915
4916
4917
4918
4919
4920As the regular reports concluded, the conference room’s atmosphere changed.
4921
4922“Kudou-dono. Firstly, I have something I would like ask about this location.”
4923
4924The remark which heralded trouble was made by Kouichi.
4925
4926“Saegusa-dono, go ahead.”
4927
4928With a sighing expression of patience, Makoto prompted Kouichi to go ahead.
4929
4930“Very well, thank you for sparing me some time.”
4931
4932Saying that, Kouichi faced Maya.
4933
4934Once again, a certain mood drifted from Mutsuzuka Atsuko to Yatsushiro Raizou. Kouichi (with a gentlemanly attitude) turned to Maya, something that could be said to be a familiar sight in the Master Clans Conference.
4935
4936“Yotsuba-dono, congratulations on your decision about your successor.”
4937
4938“Thank you.”
4939
4940Both Kouichi and Maya had fake smiles plastered on their faces.
4941
4942Beneath the façade, Kouichi had a provocative glimmer in his eye, while Maya returned a cold gaze. No matter how one looked at it, both seemed ready to fight.
4943
4944“But, regarding your son’s engagement issue, I’m afraid I cannot agree to that.”
4945
4946“Why? If I remember correctly, personal issues like marriage have no necessity to seek approval from the Master Clans Conference. Am I wrong?”
4947
4948Before any voices of approval could be interleaved, Maya rebutted Kouichi.
4949
4950“Indeed if it was only a marriage, I wouldn’t be saying this. But when the possibility of ruining potential talent exists, it’s a different story.”
4951
4952With the exception of Kouichi and Maya, everyone’s eyes focused on Ichijou Gouki.
4953
4954Gouki’s mouth was twisted into a bent shape, with arms folded. His face seemed to voice his thoughts “In such a place and time…”
4955
4956How does consanguineous marriage impact a Magician’s quality? Such research has not made much progress, and thus is a topic yet to be concluded. Some researchers have claimed it is harmful, while some have claimed it beneficial. But, above the fact that the risk of genetic abnormalities is assumed, it is considered that it is better that marriages with blood relationships too close be avoided. Actually among the Numbers, the law tends to discourage even marriage among cousins.
4957
4958Kudou Makoto interlaced his fingers on the table, closing his eyes. From the side, he looked like he was deep in thought.
4959
4960“It’s just an inclination, it is not forbidden. There are real examples too.”
4961
4962The one who refuted Kouichi in a weary voice was not Maya.
4963
4964“Eh. Just as Yatsushiro-dono said, even among the 28 Houses, there are sanguineous couples. But in that case, they have different mothers. Considering Yotsuba-dono’s current case, it cannot be discussed on an equal basis.”
4965
4966“Even if they weren’t cousins, you can go back to the grandparents and find the father is related by being cousins with the other’s husband. Even when the blood relations are distant, the element of risk still exists in sanguineous marriage, doesn’t it?”
4967
4968This time it was Mutsuzuka Atsuko who refuted Kouichi’s claim.
4969
4970“The risk is never zero. The only question is to what degree, Mutsuzuka-dono.”
4971
4972But, Atsuko’s remark could not cause Kouichi to falter.
4973
4974“The reason I object to the Yotsuba Family’s Successors’ engagement, is that they are monozygotic twins, with very close blood ties. No different from a marriage between half-siblings. Is that not the case?”
4975
4976Atsuko did not reply. Kouichi ignoring his emotional intention, his logic held persuasion.
4977
4978“A marriage between cousins may be recognized by law. But if it becomes a marriage between half-siblings, then it could even be called a circumvention of the law.”
4979
4980“Saegusa-dono, that is going too far.”
4981
4982Futatsugi Mai gently restrained the extreme phrase, circumvention of the law. But, Mai didn’t seem to show any intention to oppose Kouichi’s claim.
4983
4984“Apologies. I’ve indeed gone too far. Please forgive me, Yotsuba-dono.”
4985
4986Maya ignored Kouichi’s apology.
4987
4988“So in the end, what do you want to say Saegusa-dono?”
4989
4990Ignoring everything, she cut straight to the point to seek what Kouichi’s request was.
4991
4992Stopping even Kouichi’s smooth tongue, Kouichi’s face in the direction between Itsuwa Isami and Mutsuzuka Atsuko, staring at Maya.
4993
4994“What I seek is very simple. I believe the successor to the Yotsuba Family, Shiba Miyuki-dono, and Shiba Tatsuya-dono’s engagement should be cancelled.”
4995
4996Maya returned Kouichi’s stare.
4997
4998Both Maya and Kouichi’s line of sight met.
4999
5000Hidden beneath his light colored lenses, the emotion that crossed his remaining left eye was either joy or hatred.
5001
5002“My apologies. May I add in something?”
5003
5004The person who cut into the high tension between the two was Ichijou Gouki.
5005
5006“Yotsuba-dono, though our family has yet to receive an answer from yours, I should admit that what Saegusa-dono has said was influenced by us. As such, could you please consider our request?”
5007
5008“The issue regarding the request for the engagement between your family’s Masaki-dono and Miyuki?”
5009
5010“Yes.”
5011
5012Returning a face of fortitude, Maya languidly sighed deeply.
5013
5014“Masaki-dono is the Ichijou Family’s successor is he not? Miyuki has also been confirmed as the successor of our family. Even if I put aside the fact that it is inappropriate of you to request an engagement when a prior one has been confirmed, what you speak of is impossible.”
5015
5016Maya clearly sought to offend Gouki——or so was her guise——
5017
5018Gouki replied in a chilly tone.
5019
5020“I apologize for being rude. But we too are making a serious request. It is not a joke of any sort.”
5021
5022“A serious request? To seek the hand of my niece who’s already engaged to someone, what part of that is a serious request?”
5023
5024“My son genuinely hopes to tie the knot with Miyuki-dono. If you were to accept our proposal of marriage, then we intend to give Masaki to the Yotsuba Family.”
5025
5026The round table was astir. Carrying the title of “Crimson Prince”, Ichijou Masaki demonstrated a degree of power that’s combat worthy of that title even at the age of 13, also during the 2095 Yokohama Incident, even now as a 17-year-old youth, his reputation as a first-class combat magician is well known throughout the Ten Master Clans.
5027
5028For Gouki to say that it would be fine to let go of such an heir. No matter how one looked at it, the deal was very much favorable to the Yotsuba Family. Since there was no amount of deception in Gouki’s words, even Maya had to recognize the proposition.
5029
5030“Is that so? But I still cannot accept your request.”
5031
5032Although the discomfort disappeared from Maya’s expression, her attitude did not turn cold.
5033
5034“…The reason, may I hear it?”
5035
5036“For Ichijou-dono, as a parent, to hope to fulfill your child’s wishes, that is something I understand as well. But if Ichijou-dono has considered your child’s feelings, then as an aunt, I must also consider my niece’s feelings.”
5037
5038“Miyuki-dono’s feelings?”
5039
5040“Yes. My niece, Miyuki, likes my son Tatsuya. I believe that Tatsuya too cares for Miyuki. I wish to respect both their feelings.”
5041
5042To Maya’s words, Futatsugi Mai and Mutsuzuka Atsuko both deeply nodded. Such words after all resonated more easily with the female gender.
5043
5044“Are Miyuki’s feelings unmovable? Could you perhaps give Masaki a chance?”
5045
5046“A Chance?”
5047
5048“Miyuki-dono likely does not know much about Masaki yet.”
5049
5050“Is that not the same for Masaki-dono? Aside from appearance, your son likely does not know much about Miyuki.”
5051
5052Subtly saying “Masaki was only attracted to her looks” made Gouki feel very ashamed. Despite it being the truth, he was defiant.
5053
5054“Thus, I hope you would give them a chance for them to become acquainted. If both of them get to know each other well, and still she refuses to choose Masaki, then we will give up.”
5055
5056“Ichijou-dono… Are you aware that since earlier, your family has been rather disrespectful to both Miyuki and Tatsuya? Especially towards my son, Tatsuya. What Ichijou-dono is saying can only be interpreted as calling Tatsuya inferior as a man in comparison to Masaki-dono.”
5057
5058Gouki was at a loss of words. He had no intention of saying so but, he may have spoken out as a doting parent.
5059
5060Towards Maya’s harsh words, even Mai, who’s role as the stopper, did not say anything to chide her. This was to say that the majority of the Family Heads felt that Gouki should be accountable for what he said.
5061
5062Then Kouichi who did not think so, once again dredged up his claims.
5063
5064“However if one were to shelve their romantic feelings and look at it objectively, I think an engagement between Masaki-dono and Miyuki-dono would be a good match. More than anything, it would avoid any harm that could come from a sanguineous marriage.”
5065
5066“Saegusa-dono… Are you saying that Miyuki-dono’s feelings are not worthy of consideration?”
5067
5068Mitsuya Gen, who had been silent until then, reproved Kouichi in a bitter voice.
5069
5070But Kouichi did not withdraw.
5071
5072“Suppressing one’s emotions to a degree is necessary, especially as a successor to one of the Ten Master Clans. Is that not the case for everyone here?”
5073
5074No voice of objection gave rise. What Kouichi said, everyone present knew.
5075
5076“Also, Miyuki-dono is still young. If she were to get to know Masaki-dono, she may change her feelings.”
5077
5078“Is that so… chemistry between a man and a woman, if they do not get to know each other, one will never know.”
5079
5080The first voice who supported Kouichi, was Itsuwa Isami.
5081
5082But the one who was most surprised at Isami’s words was most likely Kouichi. Though not apparent in his expression, Kouichi doubted Isami’s intent in his heart.
5083
5084“I too thought it was a good pair, requesting for an engagement with Saegusa-dono’s daughter, but… Mayumi-dono and Hiroshi’s character didn’t mix well, and in the end it did not go anywhere.”
5085
5086As Isami said, right before the Master Clans Conference, the Itsuwa Family broke off talks of marriage.
5087
5088“Kouichi’s claim that an engagement between the Ichijou Family’s Masaki-dono and the Yotsuba Family’s Miyuki-dono is reasonable. Their marriage will bring more and more development to Japan’s Magic Community. Not to mention Ichijou-dono has said he is willing to give the Yotsuba Family Masaki-dono, I don’t think it’s such a bad deal to Yotsuba-dono.”
5089
5090With Isami’s support, the winds began to change. In that instant, the tail wind was definitely blowing for Kouichi and Gouki.
5091
5092But that wind was about to be broken in an instant.
5093
5094“Itsuwa-dono. Our family does not consider or seek benefits from Miyuki’s marriage.”
5095
5096Isami awkwardly looked down. Having realized his intention to induce discussion about short-term gain and loss, Maya flatly rejected him.
5097
5098“I understand your stance; Miyuki is still young. I cannot say that the possibility of her feelings to change is zero. But that is as far as I can say, I think Masaki-dono should put in his own effort to move Miyuki’s heart. If Masaki were steal Miyuki away from Tatsuya, then even I wouldn’t tie up Miyuki. To the Yotsuba Family, we will serve any command from Miyuki, but we may yield regarding the seat of the son-in-law.”
5099
5100“So the engagement is not annulled?”
5101
5102“In exchange, you would not mind if Masaki-dono were to go after Miyuki-dono?”
5103
5104
5105
5106
5107
5108Makoto and Mai confirmed Maya’s meaning.
5109
5110“That interpretation is fine. In the first place, dare I say, that Miyuki and Tatsuya’s marriage is a legitimate thing recognized by the law. It’s not anything that must result in accepting any objection by the law, is it?”
5111
5112To Maya’s words, Mai nodded.
5113
5114“It is certainly as Yotsuba-dono said. Sanguineous marriage does indeed carry some risk. That said, Saegusa-dono’s claim exceeds the scope of decisions that can be made in the Master Clans Conference.”
5115
5116Mai then moved her gaze from Kouichi to Gouki.
5117
5118“Ichijou-dono, is that fine? Yotsuba-dono has said that despite Miyuki-dono’s engagement, she will allow your son to interact with Miyuki-dono. The parents will not interfere with anything beyond that.”
5119
5120“…I understand. I will convey that to my son.”
5121
5122“I too, am fine with that.”
5123
5124Both Gouki and Kouichi decided to lay down arms.
5125
5126“By the way, the allowing of one to date while they have a fiancée also apply to Tatsuya-dono?”
5127
5128Of course, Kouichi was not of the type that would raise the white flag without conditions.
5129
5130Under the gaze of Maya and Mai, Kouichi made a smile.
5131
5132“As Itsuwa-dono has said earlier, the talks for the engagement between Itsuwa Family’s Hirofumi and our Mayumi have broken down. If it goes well, I was hoping for Mayumi to marry Tatsuya-dono.”
5133
5134Kudou Retsu had been once referred to as a “Trickster” due to his magic, but perhaps in terms of personality, Kouichi possessed similar traits.
5135
5136
5137
5138
5139
5140As everyone was tired from the miasma thrown by Kouichi, the Master Clans Conference had a break.
5141
5142Then ten minutes later, this time it was Maya who began with a bombshell.
5143
5144Not an iffy thing like Kouichi’s claim, but a big scandal.
5145
5146“Everyone, I have something I would like to say.”
5147
5148“Oh. An issue raised by Yotsuba-dono is indeed rare. What would it be about.”
5149
5150Encouraged by Makoto, Maya smiled at Kouichi.
5151
5152A shudder ran down the spines of the rest of the Ten Master Clans Heads’. The extent of their antagonism was such that even Katsuto who had yet to see it felt the same.
5153
5154Maya slowly opened her glossy red lips.
5155
5156“Has everyone heard of a man that goes by the name of Zhou Gongjin?”
5157
5158The moment Maya said that, Makoto’s body stiffened. Though Kouichi did not show any reaction but non-reaction was the same as saying that he indeed had knowledge about the subject.
5159
5160“Zhou Gongjin…?”
5161
5162“Yotsuba-dono, isn’t that the famous Zhou Yu of Wu from the Romance of the Three Kingdoms?”
5163
5164Maya shook her head while smiling in response to Mutsuzuka Atsuko and Yatsushiro Raizou’s questions.
5165
5166“Basing his headquarters in Yokohama’s Chinatown, he’s an Ancient Magician born on the continent. Taoists, I believe they were called, correct, Kudou-dono?”
5167
5168“A, aah. Ancient Magicians from the continent are often called as such.”
5169
5170Makoto used all his strength to suppress his body from trembling.
5171
5172“Kudou-dono, what happened? You seem to have a bad complexion.”
5173
5174“No, it’s nothing, Mutsuzuka-dono.”
5175
5176After tilting her head at the suspicious attitude of Makoto, she turned back to Maya’s direction.
5177
5178“So, what about this Zhou Gongjin?”
5179
5180“Anti-Magic International Political Organization ‘Blanche’. Hong Kong based International Crime Syndicate ‘No-Head Dragon’. The sabotage forces of the Great Asian Alliance that caused the Yokohama Incident. And then the incident that took place in the heart of Tokyo, the Vampire Incident which took the world by storm: ‘Parasites’. He is the man who helped orchestrate all of this, the mastermind that brought chaos to our country, or should I say, the mastermind designated to cause trouble in Japan.”
5181
5182The conference room had a bustling atmosphere.
5183
5184It wasn’t that there was an increase in chatter, there were barely ten people in the room. It was not a topic one could freely discuss with those next to them.
5185
5186But even so, the shock that took away the calm and composed attitudes of the Heads of the Ten Master Clans stemmed from Maya’s short speech.
5187
5188“Yotsuba-dono.”
5189
5190Facing Maya, Raizou softly raised his hand. It seemed to be an unintentional habit from university.
5191
5192“Just now you used the word ‘designated’ in past tense, which is to say he has already been disposed of? Or that he has fled the country?”
5193
5194“Assisted by Ichijou Masaki-dono, and Kudou Minoru-dono, Zhou Gongjin was killed by Tatsuya last October.”
5195
5196Makoto expressed a feeling of surprise. He had heard the report from Masaki but he didn’t hear from Minoru.
5197
5198However, the change in his facial expression was not noticed by the other Heads. This was because all eyes were concentrated on Maya, excluding Kouichi, Gouki and Makoto, the Heads were nodding in admiration.
5199
5200“Minoru-dono, which is to say, Kudou-dono’s youngest son?”
5201
5202Makoto barely faked a smile while nodding to Raizou’s question.
5203
5204“The Ichijou Family’s Masaki-dono, the Yotsuba Family’s Tatsuya-dono, and the Kudou Family’s Minoru-dono… how reliable.”
5205
5206Mitsuya Gen broadly complimented.
5207
5208“That’s right. It really brings me joy to hear the next generation is growing up so splendidly. I can believe that the future of Japan’s Magic Community is secure.”
5209
5210Futatsugi Mai accompanied.
5211
5212“Both Juumonji-dono and I feel that, even though they will only be juniors in the next generation, they are indeed reliable.”
5213
5214Mutsuzuka Atsuko’s words invited laughter from the seniors.
5215
5216However the peaceful atmosphere was shattered by Maya’s next words.
5217
5218“Saegusa-dono. Were you in collusion with Zhou Gongjin?”
5219
5220The round table returned to silence.
5221
5222“…Yotsuba-dono, does that claim have a legitimate basis?”
5223
5224Itsuwa Isami squeezed out in a hoarse voice.
5225
5226Kouichi remained silent.
5227
5228“Saegusa-dono. You used your subordinate, Nakura Saburou, to establish contact with Zhou Gongjin, indirectly using Civil Rights Party’s Congressman Kanda to instigate the anti-Magician movement. Do you have any objections?”
5229
5230Kouichi slowly opened his mouth.
5231
5232“Yotsuba-dono, I too, would like to hear the basis of this.”
5233
5234Kouichi and Maya coldly glared at each other.
5235
5236“If I may speak.”
5237
5238In that tense moment, it was the youngest, Katsuto, who spoke up.
5239
5240In spite of the gazes focused on him, Katsuto began his testimony in a calm tone.
5241
5242“The fact that Saegusa-dono instigated the anti-Magician movement is the truth. I heard it from Saegusa-dono himself.”
5243
5244All the gazes on Katsuto, shifted to Kouichi.
5245
5246“Saegusa-dono, do you have any excuses?”
5247
5248Atsuko sharply cross-examined Kouichi.
5249
5250Kouichi had a smile that had a feeling of complacency and calmness.
5251
5252“What Juumonji-dono said is true. What Yotsuba-dono said is somewhat true as well. Just that the order is somewhat mistaken.”
5253
5254“The order? What do you mean?”
5255
5256Gouki spat out. But Kouichi’s smile did not falter.
5257
5258“My subordinate established contact with Zhou Gongjin, only after the anti-Magician movement was more stable after First High’s Stellar Furnace Experiment. Aah, now that we’re on this topic, that too was the achievement of Yotsuba Family’s Tatsuya-dono. That experiment was highly evaluated by Rozen’s Branch, and radically changed the winds. What a spectacular son.”
5259
5260“So, what about it?”
5261
5262Gouki irritatedly rebuked Kouichi.
5263
5264Kouichi did not delay the conversation any longer, or do anything that could irritate Gouki.
5265
5266“When I established contact with Zhou Gongjin, it was to stop the Mass Media’s attempts to target Magicians as a whole. Of course, I had to give something in return, something that would be disadvantageous to Japan’s Magic Community.”
5267
5268“Aa, you’re right. You joined hands with Zhou Gongjin after the instigation of the anti-Magician movement.”
5269
5270Maya frankly admitted Kouichi’s claim.
5271
5272“But the fact that Zhou Gongjin caused so much harm to our country is an indisputable fact. To collaborate with someone like that, is very inappropriate for someone from the Ten Master Clans. Everyone, is that not the case?”
5273
5274The reason Maya wasn’t overly respectful with her words was due to this.
5275
5276“Certainly.”
5277
5278Ichijou Gouki expressed his consent briefly.
5279
5280“It is as Yotsuba-dono said.”
5281
5282Mutsuzuka Atsuko, “Unfortunately, it is as she said.”
5283
5284Yatsushiro Raizou, “Saegusa-dono, at the time, I too said that it would have been better for you to stop.”
5285
5286Juumonji Katsuto, “Saegusa-dono may have had his own ideas but…”
5287
5288Itsuwa Isami, “I cannot defend Saegusa-dono.”
5289
5290Mitsuya Gen, “Saegusa-dono. No matter what your intents were, you crossed a line you should never cross, and collaborated with someone you never should have.”
5291
5292Futatsugi Mai, everyone supported Maya.
5293
5294Kouichi, who was still smiling, was now cornered.
5295
5296Gouki, Atsuko, Raizou, Katsuto, Isami, Gen, Mai’s eyes, all pointed in Kudou Makoto’s direction, who had yet to express his opinion.
5297
5298But what Mai said to Kouichi at the end applied to Makoto as well.
5299
5300Though it could be said that his circumstances were different from Kouichi, he too had been in collusion with Zhou Gongjin.
5301
5302Makoto’s worries were interrupted by a knock on the door.
5303
5304“Would you mind if I enter?”
5305
5306The voice that likely came from the other side of the door was from an old man that all the members knew very well.
5307
5308
5309
5310
5311
5312Sitting closest to the door, Katsuto stood up and looked at the rest.
5313
5314Though there were others who agreed, no one was shaking their head.
5315
5316Katsuto walked to the doorway, and opened the door.
5317
5318Standing behind the door was the retired Kudou Retsu.
5319
5320“Sensei, I haven’t seen you in a long time. Even so, what business do you have today?”
5321
5322Mai invited Retsu in cordially. Katsuto tried to offer his seat but, Retsu smiled and waved his hand.
5323
5324“Apologies but, I overheard the topic at hand.”
5325
5326Retsu immediately cut to the chase.
5327
5328Though there was nobody who would call it into question, it was a rule that the topics of discussion during the Conference were to remain absolutely confidential. The Kudou Family wasn’t the first to use methods to leak the general basis of the conference.
5329
5330“For everyone to hold Kouichi accountable is obvious. But, I would like for that to be put on hold.”
5331
5332Retsu referred to Kouichi not as “Saegusa-dono” but by his first name.
5333
5334By doing so, he made it clear that his intent was not to speak as a former member of the Master Clans Conference but as the Patriarch of Japan’s Magic Community——the speech of an old man who held no authority.
5335
5336“Instigating the anti-Magician movement was something I too discussed with Kouichi. And I did not stop Kouichi.”
5337
5338Glances were exchanged in a flurry across the round table. Excluding Maya, Kouichi and Makoto; Gouki, Mai, Gen, Isami, Atsuko, Raizou, and Katsuto were all contemplating Retsu’s real intentions. Makoto wasn’t even aware of his father’s intentions. The only people who had guessed Retsu’s motive were Maya and Kouichi.
5339
5340“Also, if you’re talking about relations with Zhou Gongjin, then the Kudou Family is not innocent either. Although we did discuss this plan, we hadn’t take any concrete actions. I took the magic provided by Zhou Gongjin to use Parasites as non-human magical weapons, with innocent young people as guinea pigs. If Maya’s son did not stop it, then something irreversible might have occurred.”
5341
5342As Retsu faced Maya, she nodded and faintly smiled. She had intended to strike Kouichi firmly, but she wasn’t driven by that goal. If Retsu wanted to cover for Kouichi, she had no intention of ruining the student-teacher relationship.
5343
5344“If you compare the actions we took, Kouichi’s do not exceed mine in severity.”
5345
5346“But Sensei.”
5347
5348Retsu turned towards Gouki’s direction and signaled for him to stop speaking.
5349
5350“The Kudou Family shall retire from the Ten Master Clans. With that, could you consider this case concluded?”
5351
5352“Senior…”
5353
5354Makoto looked up at his father with a shocked expression.
5355
5356As Retsu made his suggestion, he directed a harsh glance towards his son.
5357
5358“Makoto, you are guilty of directly accommodating Zhou Gongjin. The incident caused by the Taoists sent by Zhou Gongjin has greatly inconvenienced Yotsuba-dono’s son, and Ichijou-dono’s son. For this kind of outcome, you should be speaking up, not me.”
5359
5360“Senior… Father!”
5361
5362“Makoto, I’m disappointed in you.”
5363
5364“Sensei, would that be okay with you?”
5365
5366The one who soothed Retsu was Maya.
5367
5368“If the Kudou Family takes full responsibility for this, then the Yotsuba Family shall consent. It would be fine if Saegusa-dono makes amends with future contributions.”
5369
5370Retsu did not cover for Kouichi just because of their teacher and student relationship. Makoto, his son, would hold higher priority in that case.
5371
5372Currently, the magic group with the most power in Japan isn’t the Nation Defense Force, but actually the Yotsuba Family followed closely by the Saegusa Family. These two Families are the two greatest authorities in the Japanese Magic Community. If the Saegusa Family was to be excluded from the Ten Master Clans, it would be a very undesirable outcome. For the sake of maintaining order, they must remain a part of the Ten Master Clans.
5373
5374To ensure the Ten Master Clans that he created would survive, Retsu covered for Kouichi. Maya seeing through his intentions wasn’t difficult.
5375
5376“If Yotsuba-dono says so…”
5377
5378“It’s certainly true that if the Saegusa Family were to be removed from the Ten Master Clans, the hole left behind would be too great.”
5379
5380Atsuko and Raizou agreed with Maya successively. Yet Kouichi’s only eye still remind cold.
5381
5382There were no voices of objection.
5383
5384Kouichi looked at the circumstances with a poker face that lacked a smile.
5385
5386Maya faced such a Kouichi and gave a smile.
5387
5388“Makoto, let’s go.”
5389
5390Ordered by Retsu, Makoto stood up tardily from the Ten Master Clans seat.
5391
5392“Everyone, excuse us.”
5393
5394Retsu lightly nodded and left the meeting room.
5395
5396Makoto followed behind with drooping shoulders.
5397
5398
5399
5400
5401
5402The door shut with a pattern sound.
5403
5404“Very well then.”
5405
5406As the stopped time began moving, Itsuwa Isami started with a harried voice.
5407
5408“We must decide on a family to replace the Kudou Family.”
5409
5410“Tomorrow is the Selection Meeting. Why not do it then?”
5411
5412Mitsuya Gen objected, “In the event where a vacancy occurs in the Ten Master Clans, a replacement member will be chosen to fill in that role. Even if it would only be a day, the Ten Master Clans should not be in a state where it’s missing any members.”
5413
5414In replacement of Makoto, Futatsugi Mai supported Isami’s suggestion as the next eldest.
5415
5416“Is that so. Who would be a good choice? Any candidates?”
5417
5418Gouki questioned with a helpless expression.
5419
5420“Then.”
5421
5422As Maya said that, all eyes were on her.
5423
5424“How about Shippou-dono? The Head, Takumi-dono is wise, though they have few disciples, they have considerable economic strength.”
5425
5426Gouki, Katsuto and Isami glanced at Kouichi’s face. Though it was well known by the others that the Saegusa Family and the Shippou Family had a bone to pick, Kouichi showed no sign of any reaction.
5427
5428“Shippou-dono… Any other recommendations?”
5429
5430There were no Heads who answered Mai’s question.
5431
5432“Very well, the new member of the Ten Master Clans is decided to be Shippou-dono. Though it will only be for a day but, who shall convey it to Shippou-dono?”
5433
5434“Very well, I shall do so.”
5435
5436Katsuto raised his hand, and exited the conference room to make the call.
5437
5438“Wait a moment, Juumonji-dono.”
5439
5440Mai voiced out when his back was to her.
5441
5442“We shall be taking a break for a while. How about resuming in 30 minutes?”
5443
5444There was no objection to Mai’s words.
5445
5446
5447
5448
5449
5450The next day, February 5th.
5451
5452Right after entering Class 2-E, Tatsuya was visited by Shippou Takuma.
5453
5454“Shippou, is something wrong?”
5455
5456Faster than Tatsuya could ask, a voice filled with curiosity greeted Takuma, and the owner of said voice was the Club Activities’ senior, Tomitsuka.
5457
5458“No, it’s just… I wanted to express my gratitude to Shiba-senpai.”
5459
5460Takuma uncomfortably replied so.
5461
5462Well, such feelings of discomfort were perfectly understandable. It was a well-known fact that Takuma had caused quite the commotion back in April with his series of duels.
5463
5464His recent change of attitude was unanimously acknowledged by not only the freshmen, but even the upperclassmen. Even so, his rudeness to Tatsuya was still fresh in their memory. This was made evident by the numerous inquisitive looks that people gave him whenever he talked to Tatsuya.
5465
5466In addition to this, Erika and Leo also gave him gazes of ill will.
5467
5468Although Mikihiko had come to Class 2-E today, his look bore the same unfavorable feelings as Erika’s and Leo’s.
5469
5470“Gratitude? I don’t remember doing anything worth being thanked for?”
5471
5472What saved Takuma was that Tatsuya apparently didn’t hold a grudge at all. It was quite the opposite in fact, having seen Takuma’s efforts during the Nine Schools Competition, he now had a better opinion of him.
5473
5474“Umm… I heard that Yotsuba-dono recommended my family as a replacement for one of the Ten Master Clans…”
5475
5476“My apologies, but this is the first I’ve heard of it.”
5477
5478Tatsuya wasn’t pretending, he genuinely wasn’t aware of it. To begin with, the fact that a “replacement” was needed meant that one of the current Ten Master Clans had stepped down from their seat. Just what kind of incident had occurred? Tatsuya couldn’t help but wonder.
5479
5480“Even if it’s just as a replacement until a proper selection is made today… I’m still extremely grateful. Thank you very much!”
5481
5482It had probably been extremely embarrassing for him, after immediately finishing his sentence, Takuma went back to his own classroom at full speed.
5483
5484Tatsuya was vaguely aware of the fact that Takuma was sensitive about everything related to the Ten Master Clans.
5485
5486However, to think that it brought him such a level of happiness…
5487
5488Tatsuya was reminded once again of the fact that every person had a different sense of values, and of what was important.
5489
5490
5491
5492
5493
5494Today was the day of the Ten Master Clans Selection Meeting, an event that only took place once every 4 years. Along with the Ten Master Clans, the respective Heads of the 18 Assistant Houses could be seen.
5495
5496Aside from the Kudou Family, everyone was present.
5497
5498“Well then, the Ten Master Clans Selection Meeting can begin.”
5499
5500Following Futatsugi Mai’s declaration, all the members stood up.
5501
5502“First of all, as per the tradition, if anyone present here has an objection or feels dissatisfaction at the current line-up of Members of the Ten Master Clans, please remain standing. If you don’t have any, sit down within the next minute.”
5503
5504The primary voting is a peculiar tradition of the Selection Meeting. Even if only one person remained standing, then papers would be distributed and the ballot would move on to the actual voting. The vote would decide who would become the 10 Houses that would be the most suitable to hold the title of Ten Master Clans, and the counting would be done under the supervision of 3 Members of the current Ten Master Clans as well as 3 Members of the 18 Assistant Houses for a total of 6 Members.
5505
5506However, this would be a “signed vote”. The criteria for choosing the next Ten Master Clans would be the power carried by each House at this point in time. However, “Magical Power” wouldn’t be the only factor in this, for the ability to support the Nation would also be required.
5507
5508Even if you were to vote for an unsuitable House, you wouldn’t lose your Number. However, the following 4 years would have your House bear the penalty, or rather, stigma of not having discerning eyes.
5509
5510Following Mai’s instructions, the first 10 Members around the table returned to their seat.
5511
5512The current Heads of the 18 Assistant Houses also started to sit one by one.
5513
5514When the second hand of the clock had done a 180°, the unexpected happened.
5515
5516The Heads of the Kuki Family and the Kuzumi Family sat down.
5517
5518Those two had been expected to vote for the now dismissed Kudou Family’s inclusion in the new Ten Master Clans, so this action struck a blow to the other members of the 18 Assistant Houses who hadn’t foreseen this turn of events.
5519
5520The members who were still standing up looked at each other.
5521
5522One by one, people sat down as if stopped dead in their tracks.
5523
5524When 50 seconds had elapsed, there was no one left standing.
5525
5526When the one-minute mark was reached, Mai stood up once again.
5527
5528“Then, for the next 4 years, the Ichijou Family, Futatsugi Family, Mitsuya Family, Yotsuba Family, Itsuwa Family, Mutsuzuka Family, Saegusa Family, Shippou Family, Yatsushiro Family and the Juumonji Family will be known as the Ten Master Clans. Everyone, I expect your continued cooperation.”
5529
5530The other nine members of the table stood up, and following Mai’s words, bowed.
5531
5532The 18 Assistant Houses who were surrounding the new Ten Master Clans joined in a round of applause.
5533
5534
5535
5536
5537
5538Once the selection of the new Ten Master Clan ended, it was part of tradition that the 18 Assistant Houses leave to allow the Ten Master Clans to discuss about their new organization and structure. However, when the Heads of the Kuki, and Kuzumi Families tried to leave, Mai called them to a stop.
5539
5540“Kuki-dono, Kuzumi-dono, please wait for a moment.”
5541
5542“Futatsugi-dono?”
5543
5544“Is something the matter?”
5545
5546“There is something I would like to ask of you two. Would you mind giving me a little bit of your time?”
5547
5548The Heads of the Kuki and Kuzumi Families nodded. When the other Members of the 18 Assistant Houses finished retiring, only the Ten Master Clans’ remained, as well as two families bearing the Number “Nine”, for a total of 12 names.
5549
5550“What did you want to ask of us?”
5551
5552“Futatsugi-dono, allow me to take it from here.”
5553
5554The one who stopped Mai had been Shippou Takumi, the newest member of the Ten Master Clans.
5555
5556“Kuki-dono, Kuzumi-dono. Even though my family was bestowed the honor of being part of the Ten Master Clans, quite frankly, we don’t have the numbers that would be required to fulfill our duties. Normally we would have to take the supervision of the Kyoto area in Kudou-dono’s stead, but this is too big a duty for my family in its current state.”
5557
5558“In that case, why don’t you ask for Yotsuba-dono or Futatsugi-dono’s help? If Kyoto is a problem, then Ichijou-dono also has responsibilities towards this area.”
5559
5560Takumi shook his head with a smile at the proposal by the Head of the Kuki Family.
5561
5562“That is also an idea. However, I want the Kudou Family to continue to watch over the Kyoto-Shiga and the Kii Peninsula. Of course, the Shippou Family doesn’t plan on only making demands. I would like every one of the ‘Nine’ to lend my family their strength.”
5563
5564After a moment of wide-eyed surprise, the Heads of the Kuki and Kuzumi Families smiled broadly.
5565
5566“Understood.”
5567
5568“I will consult about this matter with Makoto-sama, we will definitely have a positive answer.”
5569
5570“I’m counting on you.”
5571
5572Takumi bowed deeply, the Heads of both the Kuki and the Kuzumi Families also bowed politely.
5573
5574
5575
5576
5577
5578After their departure, a somewhat relaxed mood drifted in the conference room.
5579
5580“Well then, let’s continue the Master Clans Conference.”
5581
5582“A counter-plan to the Humanist ideology right?”
5583
5584Mai’s words invited this question.
5585
5586“No, before that we have to talk about this suspicious ship spotted near Izu.”
5587
5588The one who had interrupted was Gouki.
5589
5590“Ichijou-dono… There’s no hurry now is there?”
5591
5592Although Isami reproved him with a shocked expression,
5593
5594“If it is a terrorist ship, I can’t imagine the other side will keep waiting.”
5595
5596Gouki didn’t yield.
5597
5598“I don’t mind, Itsuwa-dono.”
5599
5600The one who answered with this was Kouichi, who had regained his usual composure overnight.
5601
5602“Then let’s hear more about this matter.”
5603
5604Although Kouichi’s attitude was the same as ever, it appeared that Gouki didn’t want to associate with him anymore. For someone like Gouki, secret communication with the enemy was an inexcusable act.
5605
5606“There was no reaction when searching for a Magician on the freighter Yotsuba-dono gave us coordinates for. Neither weapons nor ammunition were found on board.”
5607
5608“Did you find anything?”
5609
5610“There is a possibility that explosives were being transported. Since it’s also possible that the ship will be used for escape purposes, we plan on keeping it under observation.”
5611
5612“How about the USNA’s movements?”
5613
5614Taking Gouki’s momentum, this time it was Katsuto’s turn to question Kouichi.
5615
5616“An agent has been dispatched. In other words, the group that has betrayed the USNA has been found out, but they’re not being that tactful about things. It’s quite possible that this duty wasn’t an order from the USNA Government itself.”
5617
5618“In other words, a favorite hunter of theirs is on the prowl, hiding somewhere?”
5619
5620“The cruiser that Yotsuba-dono received information on was confirmed as outside of territorial waters. He could unexpectedly be hiding out there.”
5621
5622Hearing Kouichi’s answer, Isami wore a pensive expression.
5623
5624“If it’s at sea, should I go and poke around? It should be possible to camouflage it into an accident using the natural disaster excuse.”
5625
5626“The problem isn’t so much the hunter from the USNA, but the terrorists that have infiltrated our country.”
5627
5628At Isami’s proposal, Atsuko brought forth a diametrically opposite opinion.
5629
5630“That is certainly the case. We have no evidence of their presence at the moment, but we also don’t have any evidence of their absence. It’s really worrying that we don’t even know if they’re lurking about.”
5631
5632Raizou was supporting Atsuko’s argument.
5633
5634“They might even be targeting this very Master Clans Conference for all we know.”
5635
5636This must have been a pure coincidence.
5637
5638However, it was the truth.
5639
5640Immediately after Raizou had said this, an overpowering sound accompanied by powerful vibrations invaded the conference room.
5641
5642
5643
5644
5645
5646February 5th, 2097 A.D., 10:33 A.M.
5647
5648It was currently break time between second and third period at First High.
5649
5650A buzzing sound came from Tatsuya’s pocket as he was heading towards the Practice Room, it was an emergency signal.
5651
5652Taking out his terminal and confirming the contents, you could read on his face that something terrible had just happened.
5653
5654“Sorry, go on ahead without me!”
5655
5656Tatsuya left his classmates, among which was Mizuki, and dashed towards the Practice Room.
5657
5658Tatsuya, who had received his teacher Jennifer Smith’s blessing to leave early, met Miyuki on the way towards the main gate.
5659
5660“Onii-sama also received the emergency signal?”
5661
5662Miyuki, whose face had lost all trace of color, asked Tatsuya with a short sentence.
5663
5664“Let’s go.”
5665
5666Tatsuya answered with an even shorter sentence.
5667
5668Although Miyuki had nodded and was about to hasten her pace, a voice called her from the behind.
5669
5670Minami came out of the entrance, accompanied by her classmate Saegusa Kasumi, as well as her sister Izumi and last but not least, Shippou Takuma. All of them were related to the Ten Master Clans. All of them, with the exception of Minami, were blood-related to the Ten Master Clans.
5671
5672“Miyuki-senpai.”
5673
5674Izumi ran towards Miyuki.
5675
5676“Izumi-chan, too.”
5677
5678“So it wasn’t a false alarm then!”
5679
5680Miyuki nodded to her question.
5681
5682Izumi started to tremble uncontrollably.
5683
5684“We’re going to see what happened for ourselves. What about all of you.”
5685
5686Tatsuya, who was just a step away, asked the freshmen.
5687
5688“I’m coming too.”
5689
5690Takuma immediately answered so.
5691
5692“We’re going as well.”
5693
5694Kasumi grasped her trembling sister’s hand.
5695
5696Minami came closer to Miyuki. So that she could shield her at a moment’s notice.
5697
5698Leading the group, Tatsuya and the five other people hastened towards the station.
5699
5700
5701
5702
5703
5704During the same time, at Third High.
5705
5706“Masaki, what happened!”
5707
5708Masaki had dashed out of the classroom after having asked permission to leave early. Kichijouji, who had run after him until he was out of breath, asked such.
5709
5710“My old man has been attacked.”
5711
5712Regretting even the time spent looking back, Masaki answered.
5713
5714“An attack? But… Right about now it should still be in the middle of the Master Clans Conf…”
5715
5716“I’m saying that the Master Clans Conference was the victim of a terrorist attack.”
5717
5718“What did you say!”
5719
5720Seeing Kichijouji at a loss for words, Masaki turned around.
5721
5722“I can’t be sure about what exactly happened from the emergency signal alone. I only know that he’s still alive. I’m heading there by helicopter. I’m counting on you to watch over Akane and the others.”
5723
5724“A-alright, I get it! Be careful, Masaki.”
5725
5726“Yeah, I know.”
5727
5728Masaki wasn’t heading home, he was heading towards the company heliport.
5729
5730
5731
5732
5733
5734Simultaneously, at the Magic University.
5735
5736“Saegusa-san, something the matter.”
5737
5738During a lesson that was in the form of a debate, the female teacher called out to Mayumi.
5739
5740“My apologies, Sensei. Could I borrow your ear for a moment.”
5741
5742With a dark expression floating on her face, Mayumi walked with quick—steps towards the teacher’s desk.
5743
5744She discreetly showed the teacher her terminal which was still displaying the emergency signal.
5745
5746Just as the teacher was about to raise her voice, she managed to keep it under control with a gesture, she then brought her ear close.
5747
5748“I recall the people in my family were rather anxious. My older brothers might even attempt to go on-site, I would like to go back home and try to have everyone settle down.”
5749
5750The teacher nodded with a serious look.
5751
5752Not letting her classmates feel any ambiguity, Mayumi announced with a smile and a slightly apologetic expression that she had to leave for familial business.
5753
5754
5755
5756
5757
5758The explosion had occurred right behind the conference room’s doors, crimson flames licked the walls.
5759
5760However, those flames were extinguished at once.
5761
5762“Juumonji-dono, exemplary.”
5763
5764Not a single member of the Master Clans Conference had a bruise. Both the heat and the impact were completely hampered by Katsuto’s heatproof shield.
5765
5766“Mutsuzuka-dono as well, as expected.”
5767
5768The erasure of the flames was caused by Mutsuzuka Atsuko’s Heat Manipulation. For the Magicians of the “Six”, putting out a flame that couldn’t even melt steel was child’s play.
5769
5770“We should probably head towards the exit. If we get buried alive, it’ll be too much of a bother to escape.”
5771
5772While Futatsugi Mai was prohibiting the oxidation of the structure from the heat so there would be no spreading of poisonous fumes, she made that comment with a composed voice.
5773
5774“Agreed. It seems like a considerably large-scale suicide-bombing operation has begun.”
5775
5776While Mitsuya Gen had several magics’ on standby, he nodded to Mai’s words.
5777
5778“Puppet terrorists! Such a terrible thing they’ve done.”
5779
5780Gouki clicked his tongue intensely upon seeing the suicide bombing continue. Puppet terrorism was basically suicide bombing using humans as puppets to perform the act. Using Magic or drugs to make human dolls out of human beings, there were also ways to deprive someone of self-control with magic.
5781
5782What Gouki sensed was the latter, a magic that controlled the flesh. He felt slow-moving presences in the first floor’s lobby, as well as the corridors of every floor, it seemed to be going downward.
5783
5784Although the Ichijou family and the Magicians of the “One” were skilled in Magic that interfered with the flesh and body, magic that manipulates the movement of the body has always been forbidden. There have been examples of “losing one’s number” for those who ignored that law. That is why even if Gouki understood what exactly was happening, he didn’t know how to stop this wicked thing known as Puppet Terrorism.
5785
5786“This is bad.”
5787
5788Sensing that the floor was about to collapse, Yatsushiro Raizou executed Gravity-Control Magic. It wasn’t comparable to the one used for Flight Magic, and lifting an area of this size which lost all support required tremendous effort.
5789
5790“Let’s make haste.”
5791
5792Everyone nodded to Kouichi’s words, Maya, Mai and Atsuko left the room, the ten Magicians aimed for the outside as a group.
5793
5794
5795
5796
5797
5798Aiming at the bombers who were roaming around in the corridors,
5799
5800Ichijou Gouki unleashed “Rupture”.
5801
5802“They aren’t suicide bombers. They’re just manipulated corpses carrying bombs.”
5803
5804The flow of insults that Gouki, who had just blown off a corpse’s arm to obstruct the detonation procedure, was spitting in an angry voice, surpassing the others’ expectations.
5805
5806To prevent getting buried due to the crumbling floor, the leaders of the Ten Master Clans decided to go to the rooftop and jump off from there while disposing of the occasional corpse bomber they encountered.
5807
5808It was Mitsuya Gen and Saegusa Kouichi who were the fastest in taking action towards the bombers. There was a technique that originally allowed one to perform up to a maximum of nine different Magic Sequences at the same time, then store them to allow a simultaneous, instantaneous release of all of them. “Speed-Loader”, using Kouichi’s “Octet” allowed him to maintain 8 different Magics from 4 different Systems on standby and select which Magic he needed to deal with a wide variety of situations instantly. The walking corpses could not even hope to approach them.
5809
5810The odd time an explosion couldn’t be prevented, the multi-layered defensive wall “Phalanx” was the perfect tool.
5811
5812Raizou’s Gravity-Control Magic was there to prevent the ground from suddenly falling under their feet.
5813
5814Atsuko’s Heat Manipulation Magic could erase any fire.
5815
5816Futatsugi Mai would remove the poisonous fumes, Maya was acting as a flashlight in those lightless corridors once the flames were put out.
5817
5818Itsuwa Isami and Shippou Takumi didn’t have a chance to do anything.
5819
5820It was impossible for those bomb-carrying corpses to kill or even wound any of them.
5821
5822The Family Heads had already noticed this fact.
5823
5824“It’s going to be tough finding a countermeasure to the Media.”
5825
5826Gen complained all the while making Swiss cheese out of the corpses.
5827
5828“I guess we have no way of deceiving them at all.”
5829
5830While putting out a wall of flames, Atsuko made a comment with a tone of resignation.
5831
5832“Although we managed to get a photograph of the fact that it was corpses who were holding the bombs… I think revealing this to the public would have quite the negative effect.”
5833
5834Isami, who had given up on any hope of getting a turn at doing anything, he agreed while taking photos.
5835
5836“Still, I doubt purposely injuring ourselves would help much, if at all.”
5837
5838Hearing Maya’s point, Raizou shrugged his shoulders.
5839
5840“Shall we hide until the flames of their fury cool down.”
5841
5842Raizou’s comment which might have been either a joke or a serious statement, no voice of objection came.
5843
5844
5845
5846
5847
5848February 5th, 2097 A.D., 10:30 A.M.
5849
5850The number of victims of the Hakone XXXX Hotel’s terror bombings came out to be 22, and it became a disaster with as many as 34 casualties.
5851
5852Furthermore, the number of uninjured people was 33. The number of Magicians among them was 27.
5853
5854The harshest criticism came from the public opinions of those who claimed that the Magicians had prioritized their own well-being above that of others.
5855
5856
5857
5858
5859
5860(Electronic version of the newspaper dating from February 6th 2097 A.D.)
5861
5862
5863
5864
5865
5866Afterword
5867
5868
5869
5870
5871
5872Have you enjoyed, “Mahouka Koukou no Rettousei” Volume 17 “Master Clans Conference Arc” <Part 1>? This time around action wasn’t a factor, instead I tried to introduce plenty of love-hate components. (Lie) Not all of the men and woman are pessimistic about the establishment of the Class One couple. I think the majority is rather “glad” and would congratulate the two of them, and those who are on the side of “They are stuck together willfully” will think that it’s common. As for the couple themselves, if people think about them living as an established couple later on, it would probably be best to have them give their blessings.
5873
5874
5875But due to people being friends, acquaintances, and perhaps something that should be expected from a rival’s grief, it isn’t rare for “lover” relationships to be formed. They’re certainly present within today’s world. Surely the majority lies in this direction for fictional worlds.
5876
5877
5878However, speaking of established couples who were urged by their parents… How’s this: I think the author himself should become engaged before they officially become a couple. Well with the case (Refrained due to Spoilers), the person himself might be thankful since he has a clear mind to do as such. There are tons of late-bloomers though.
5879
5880
5881But I think (Refrained to due Spoilers) is an extreme nuisance. One’s true feelings get set aside.
5882
5883
5884Although it was slightly different from the previous illustrations, Lina had appeared in the storyline for around one year now. She is an easy character to write so I really want to include her a lot more… as of now, she has yet to depart from America. Even though she’s appeared on stage for a while, perhaps it will take form this time. Too bad.
5885
5886
5887Well, the next book will be “Master Clans Conference (II)”. This section will be made up of three parts just like the “Visitors Arc”. The content will be similar to that of the “Visitors Arc”. You might say that the games “Out of Order” and “Lost Zero” are similar.
5888
5889
5890…Since I won’t try to “not spoil anything anymore”, please look forward to enjoying the next book “Master Clans Conference Arc (II)”.
5891
5892
5893
5894
5895
5896(Satou Tsutomu)
5897
5898
5899
5900
5901
5902Illustrations
5903
5904
5905
5906
5907
5908Cover
5909
5910
5911
5912
5913Teaser #1
5914
5915
5916
5917
5918Teaser #2
5919
5920
5921
5922
5923Teaser #3
5924
5925
5926
5927
5928Teaser #4
5929
5930
5931
5932
5933Teaser #5
5934
5935
5936
5937
5938Chapter 1
5939
5940
5941
5942
5943Chapter 2
5944
5945
5946
5947
5948Chapter 3
5949
5950
5951
5952
5953Chapter 3
5954
5955
5956
5957
5958Chapter 4
5959
5960
5961
5962
5963Chapter 5
5964
5965
5966
5967
5968Chapter 5
5969
5970
5971
5972
5973Advert
5974
5975
5976
5977
5978
5979Notes
5980
5981
5982
5983
5984
5985Boku (僕): Is a masculine form of 私 (watashi). It is mostly used by males, especially those in their youth, but tomboys are known to use the word as well.
5986
5987
5988RFID: RFID stands for Radio-Frequency IDentification. The acronym refers to small electronic devices that consist of a small chip and an antenna. The chip typically is capable of carrying 2,000 bytes of data or less.
5989
5990The RFID device serves the same purpose as a bar code or a magnetic strip on the back of a credit card or ATM card; it provides a unique identifier for that object. And, just as a bar code or magnetic strip must be scanned to get the information, the RFID device must be scanned to retrieve the identifying information.
5991
5992
5993
5994
5995
5996Did you enjoy the book?
5997
5998
5999
6000Grab a copy at your local bookstore once localized in your area.