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1魔法科高校の劣等生
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3Mahouka Koukou no Rettousei
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5Yokohama Disturbance Chapter (II)
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11Satou Tsutomu
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13Illustrations by Ishida Kana
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19ASCII Media Works / Dengeki Bunko • Tokyo, Japan
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25Copyright © 2012 by Satou Tsutomu
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28Illustration © 2012 by Ishida Kana
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31All rights reserved.
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34Mahouka Koukou no Rettousei / Satou Tsutomu ; [illustrations by Ishida Kana] — digital ed.
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37ISBN: 978-4-04-886701-6
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40Summary: The story follows Tatsuya Shiba, a bodyguard to his sister Miyuki Shiba who is also a candidate to succeed the master clan, Yotsuba. They enroll into First High School which segregates its students based on their magical abilities. Miyuki is enlisted as a first course student and is viewed as one of the best students, while Tatsuya is in the second course and considered to be magically inept. However, Tatsuya’s technical knowledge, combat abilities, and unique magic techniques causes people to view him as an irregular to the school’s standardized rankings.
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43[1. Romance-Magic—Fiction. 2. Magic-Engineer—Fiction. 3. School—Fiction.] I. Title. II. Series: Tsutomu, Satou. Mahouka Koukou no Rettousei.
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49ePub meticulously crafted by hand by Roah Nosh.
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52Translation by Baka-Tsuki.
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58[Translator: Dreyakis, Sashiko, Joay, Seitsuki, Setsuna86, larethian / Checker: larethian / Editor: Arczyx, ColdFront, Zeru, Genesis, nukie, Wakusie, Chancs, Cliff]
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64All materials’ copyright reserved by their respective authors and the associated publishers. Please respect their rights.
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69Works will be deleted upon request by copyright holders.
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72Visit the disclaimer page for more details.
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78If you like the book buy it once localized in your area. Support the author.
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84v1.5.5
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90Title
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92Copyright
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94Chapter 8
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96Chapter 9
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98Chapter 10
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100Chapter 11
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102Chapter 12
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104Chapter 13
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106Afterword
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108Illustrations
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110Notes
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116Chapter 8
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121Saturday, October 29, 2095 AD. Although class was still in session, each class was essentially self study. Aside from the practical skills classes, all the other classes were practically self study anyways, though for Course 2 students, half of their Practical Skills class was also self study, so it wasn’t like this was any different than usual. —That being said, the typical class wouldn’t be as rowdy as this.
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123Every so often, an explosion would sound off during Practical Skills, giving off the impression that the “tranquil campus” was blatantly false advertising. Actually, normally there would be some degree of ruckus, but they were usually more organized or settled. The reason for today’s insanity was that the entire campus was filled with noise caused by the final examination for the materials required for tomorrow’s Thesis Competition.
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125However, as one of the primary contributors, Tatsuya was in his classroom quietly doing his homework in front of a terminal.
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131Tatsuya was not concentrating on his homework that had no bearing on tomorrow’s preparation because he was procrastinating or had been fired…… Strictly speaking, high school students leaving their homework to the last day to work on other preparations should still constitute “procrastinating”.
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133His responsibilities for the day included verifying the run time conditions during the dress rehearsal and fixing any errors (all other inspections had been completed). Still, since the integral piece that is Suzune hadn’t arrived, the dress rehearsal went on hold. Yesterday, he received a message saying that “she’ll come to school in the afternoon”, so there was no need to worry or be concerned, but that meant he had nothing to do for the Thesis Competition preparation.
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135After the end of the first period, just as he was about to relax and stretch, a sound caught his attention from the front.
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137Tatsuya didn’t turn to Leo, who sat in front of him with his elbows on the back of the chair, but to Erika standing next to him as she called out to him.
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139“Tatsuya-kun, when do you enter the conference hall tomorrow?”
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141Although Erika tried her utmost to feign disinterest, her effort was dashed by Leo pricking his ears at the conversation.
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143These two, what the heck are they planning……? Tatsuya thought with astonishment, but this wasn’t anything confidential.
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145“We meet at 8 AM before the conference hall and the opening ceremony is at 9 AM. The ceremony lasts 30 minutes, so the official contest starts at 9:30 AM. Each team is allotted 30 minutes, and there will be a 10 minute break in between, with four teams presenting before lunch break from noon to 1 PM. Five teams will present in the afternoon, so the competition will end around 4:10 PM. Afterwards, there will be evaluations and the awards ceremony, so the expected end time will be around 6 PM.”
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147“……So, when will our school be presenting?”
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149Erika was a little dizzy since her first question received such an overwhelming response, but she finally managed to get it straight.
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151After failing to thoroughly confound her, Tatsuya simply switched over to an honest answer.
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153“First High is second to last and will start at 3 PM.”
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155“Then don’t you have a lot of time?”
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157“Indeed. That’s why the primary speaker, Ichihara-senpai, is entering the conference hall after noon. Isori-senpai and I will be in early to take care of the equipment and handle any emergencies.”
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159“Hm~. At any rate, you guys will meet up there. What about the demonstration device?”
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161“The Student Council will arrange for a transportation company. Hattori-senpai will ride along.”
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163“Hattori-senpai, wasn’t he going to be Ichihara-senpai’s bodyguard?”
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165“I heard that Saegusa-senpai and Watanabe-senpai are going to get Ichihara-senpai tomorrow. Speaking of which, why do you want to know?”
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167At Tatsuya’s unexpected question, Erika fidgeted and could not come up with a reply.
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169Sparing a glance at the indecisive Erika, the hitherto silent Leo finally opened his mouth.
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171“Well, those bodyguards, could we get in on that?”
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173Seeing the blatantly displeased Erika keeping mum, the contents were likely something the two of them had already discussed ahead of time.
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175“That shouldn’t be a problem…… But why would you want to get involved in such an irksome task?”
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177To Tatsuya, this was an obvious line of inquiry, whereas Leo let out an embarrassed smile.
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179Tatsuya glanced at Leo, then towards Erika. Leo wore a self-mocking smile as he returned Tatsuya’s gaze while Erika sought to dodge Tatsuya’s look.
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181“I already asked for time off from school to train this guy. Wouldn’t I look like a complete moron if everything was handled without giving us a chance to shine?”
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183Her eyes elsewhere, Erika added in an unhappy tone. She appeared to be aware of the unpublished incident at the Special Detention Center and was complaining because she estimated that she missed out because of her absence. Unfortunately, even though Erika wanted to use someone like Lu Gonghu to serve as a punching bag to train Leo, that plan seemed doomed.
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185“Regardless of your motive, we need all the help we can get. Also, there’s no guarantee that nothing will happen.”
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187“Eh? I thought everything was already settled?”
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189Suddenly, Mikihiko jumped in on the conversation as if he had been eavesdropping the entire time.
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191There was no need to point out the fact he was listening in on them — if they did, their other friend who was engaged in the same activity may panic and cause a ruckus — so Tatsuya answered the question with this.
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193“Is there a rule that states incidents happen singularly and by themselves?”
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195Tatsuya did not inform his friends that the chief suspect for the mastermind of this entire incident, Chen Xiangshan, remained at large. Nor did he plan to do so in the future. His answer remained purely theoretical, but Tatsuya believed that was enough at this standpoint.
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197“There are people taking aim at the Thesis Competition every year. An example of this would be being ambushed on the way home from the event proper. Even if we handled the incident before the competition begins, that doesn’t mean that nothing will occur during the competition itself, correct?”
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199“Well…… You’re right. Then can I also help with security?”
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201After deeply contemplating those words, Mikihiko was suddenly highly motivated as he made his offer, to which Tatsuya nodded with a smile.
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203“Then, we’re relying on you.”
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205Even if they handled one hurdle, that doesn’t mean they can let down their guard. That was only human nature.
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207Yet, strictly based on the results, Tatsuya undoubtedly was dead wrong at this juncture.
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213The day before the Thesis Competition, Suzune asked for the day off from school and pushed the dress rehearsal to the afternoon before arriving at the hospital.
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215Hattori tagged along because he was worried that Suzune would run into danger if she ventured alone, hence Mayumi, Mari and Hattori…… At any rate, everyone around her fiercely disagreed, but finally reached the compromise of Hattori accompanying her.
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217She lightly knocked twice on the sickroom door.
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219“Come in.”
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221A solemn, feminine voice replied from within the room.
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223Hattori remained in the corridor. The one who met Suzune at the door was a resident doctor at the magic university affiliated First High, Yasuyado Satomi. She must have come earlier to visit Chiaki.
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225The young girl was sitting in bed with her head bowed. Chiaki didn’t even respond to Suzune’s arrival.
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227“Doctor, does Hirakawa Chiaki have any psychological disorders?”
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229Completely out of the blue, Suzune bluntly directed this question to Dr. Yasuyoda.
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231“No, there’s no sign of psychological trauma that would pose a communication issue. Still, since there’s no way to directly diagnose her ‘mentality’, I cannot say she is entirely healthy.”
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233“It will be fine so long as she can hear my words.”
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235Hearing Yasuyoda’s response, Suzune rose to her feet. She went around the bed to stand before the window and spoke to Chiaki with her back facing the young girl.
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237“Hirakawa Chiaki-san, you are unable to rouse Shiba-kun’s interest with your methods.”
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239Suzune’s words were oddly calm. She was coldly pointing out the facts without applying any comfort, encouragement, sarcasm, or ridicule.
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241“Favorable impression is of course out of the question, you cannot stir enmity or even hostility. To him, the current you is nothing more than a face in the crowd.”
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243Most people who heard Suzune’s words would accept this simply as the truth. Yet, this was sufficient to bring out her rebuttal.
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245“So what!”
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247That, was enough. Suzune was able to successfully tap Chiaki’s words and emotions that lurked beneath her combative and resistant attitude.
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249……Even if it was 100% negative, this was still a crucial first step.
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251“I know that I’m inconsequential to someone like him. I don’t need senpai to point out each and every detail!”
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253Regardless of whether she was facing Sayaka or Kanon, Chiaki maintained a resistant stance which she also adopted towards Suzune.
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255However, Suzune had a different reaction compared to those two.
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257“On some level, I believe that your assessment of Shiba-kun is spot on.”
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259Heedless of Chiaki’s screams, Suzune continued on with her back facing Chiaki.
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261“True, he is an arrogant person. He couldn’t care less how the mortals cry and sue for help. Forget compassion, he would not even waste his time to ridicule the masses. Even when harassed, he would only dispel the irritation like one shoos away a fly.”
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263Her head lowered, Chiaki bit her lip in frustration. After listening to Suzune’s words, she recalled the incidents surrounding recruitment week back in April and more or less understood what she was saying.
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265At the time she felt that there was nothing they could do to him aside from harassment, but now many high school students like Chiaki realized they were dead wrong.
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267If he desired so, that man could capture any opponent who dared to use magic to try and lay a snare for him.
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269The sole reason he refrained was that he simply had no interest in doing so.
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271In reality, the level of harm those magic attacks inflicted on him was nothing more than mosquito bites, and she who could not even do that much was lower than even those pests……
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273In order to hold back the tears of frustration that seemed to well forth from her heart, Chiaki couldn’t help but clench her fists to the point that her nails dug into her palm.
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275Ignoring Chiaki’s current state — or simply feigning ignorance — Suzune kept her back to the girl as she continued.
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277“Hirakawa-san, did you know? During the final examination for the first semester, Shiba-kun received a top score that sowed despair in the hearts of everyone beneath him. Especially in Magic Engineering, where he received an astonishing full marks.”
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279“……What’s your point?”
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281“And the one who received Second Place in the Magic Engineering portion of the exam for Year 1 students is you.”
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283Suzune turned to look at her now. Although her expression remained calm, her eyes were smiling warmly.
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285“You scored 92 out of a possible 100. Normally, no one would be surprised if you took First Place with that score.”
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287“……And what of it?”
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289“Unfortunately, you stand no chance of threatening Shiba-kun in any other field. Yet, if restricted solely to Magic Engineering, I believe it is still possible for Hirakawa-san to surpass Shiba-kun.”
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291Chiaki suddenly lifted her head.
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293Her eyes widened at the same time her “disbelief” transformed into a “may be possible” hope.
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295“Since three weeks ago, after working alongside him, I noticed that Shiba-kun is much handier with software compared to hardware. Of course, his hardware abilities far exceed those of a high school student, but are certainly not so advanced that the gulf can’t be bridged. Although Magic Engineering in Year 1 focuses largely on software, after advancing to Year 2, hardware becomes the focus. I recall that Hirakawa-san specializes in hardware, correct?”
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297The point Suzune was trying to make was that once she advanced to the Year 2 courses dominated by hardware, she would have a chance for a reversal — that was how Chiaki rationalized this.
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299A small voice in her consciousness whispered that this was an overly optimistic outlook, but she chose to ignore it.
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301Seeing the self-destructive attitude fade from Chiaki’s face only to be replaced by positive emotions shining from her eyes, Suzune’s expression softened.
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303“If you continue to hold onto that indomitable spirit, I believe one day you can accomplish this.”
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305Suzune did not say what she could accomplish.
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307Nor did Chiaki ask.
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309There was no need to go into detail here.
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311An overarching “something” was sufficient as a goal.
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313“Please come to the conference tomorrow. I believe you will benefit quite a bit.”
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315Suzune’s retreating figure from the sickroom was not reflected in Chiaki’s eyes.
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317Maybe she could accomplish something — the anesthesia named “possibility”.
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319After injecting revitalizing medicine into the flagging spirit that may have walked to its doom, a momentous change came over Chiaki’s heart.
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325“Err…… Ichihara-senpai? If you don’t feel well……”
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327Seeing the terrible countenance on Suzune’s face as she left the room, Hattori asked her in a wavering manner.
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329“No, there’s no need to worry. Just going through a bout of self-loathing right now.”
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331Suzune was not a talented speaker. While she excelled in debating, she generally refrained unless there was a pressing need. Though it must be owned that she was more verbose in Mayumi’s company, generally she was a taciturn individual.
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333Well aware of this, Hattori picked up on the words “self loathing”, but wordlessly followed her without asking any further questions.
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335From Suzune’s perspective, she allowed Hattori to accompany her because he was someone who knew how to read between the lines. As she expected, he did not pursue the conversation any longer.
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337(Seriously…… It looks like I have all the talents necessary for a con man.)
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339Beneath the calm exterior of her poker face, Suzune repeatedly ridiculed herself.
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341Rather than trying to help Chiaki pull herself together, her goal was more in line with that she felt it was a great pity Chiaki’s talent was going to waste.
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343Also, she wasn’t doing this on behalf of herself or Hirakawa’s older sister who was in the same grade.
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345She was doing this for her alma mater.
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347The Ichihara Family was an Extra Family that had lost their number.
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349Now, discrimination against Extra Numbers was officially frowned upon, but that was a recent turnaround that happened twenty years ago. In her parents’ generation, discrimination and bigotry ran rampant in their youth. Suzune’s father was tragically ostracized in the magical community, hence they always hid the fact that the Ichihara Family was once the Extra “Ichihana” Family from her.
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351Suzune’s childhood always had that shadow hanging over her. Once she reached middle school, she learned of the truth that her father hid from her as well as the reason for it. Possibly because of this reason, Suzune never felt that she belonged to the magical community.
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353Her first and foremost sense of belonging was to her school, the magic university affiliated First High.
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355Thus, she felt deeply indebted to Mayumi for giving her this opportunity as well as a powerful sense of school spirit that was second to no one.
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357During the Nine Schools Competition in the summer, Suzune and the other members of the brass from First High noticed a looming issue with the lack of magic engineers in the underclassmen.
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359The Year 1 Men’s Team obtained unfavorable results not only because of their mentality; Suzune and the others reached an accord on another primary reason.
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361There were talented individuals like Azusa, Isori, and Tatsuya.
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363But, there were simply too few.
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365Remove those three, and the skill level dropped like a rock.
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367Underclassmen, especially the cultivation of magic engineers in the Year 1 students, became the first priority for the last semester that remained to them. In particular, encouraging talented Course 2 students was a focal point.
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369Course 1 students under direct teacher supervision was another story, but only the Student Council and Club Activities Group could locate quality talent lurking in the Course 2 students who weren’t being nurtured by the faculty.
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371Among them, Hirakawa Chiaki walked into Suzune’s line of sight.
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373A Year 1 student who loitered around with illegal tools. After some digging, she once scored very well in magic engineering and excelled in hardware repair and modification.
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375Her talents must be put to use for the alma mater.
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377In order to accomplish this, Suzune arrived at the conclusion that inciting her to compete against Shiba Tatsuya would be the most effective way.
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379(Oh well, not like this spells misfortune for anyone.)
380
381……Using this sentence to draw her mental struggle to a close, Suzune truly was a young woman who befitted a “cool” description.
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387The conference hall would be in Yokohama this year, so First High’s representatives just had to meet up in the morning of the opening ceremony. Last year, the competition was held in Kyoto, so they had to depart the day before and spend the night over there.
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389For the same reason, representatives of schools in remote locations departed for Yokohama a day or two before and sought lodgings.
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391Kichijouji Shinkurou, bearing the title “Cardinal George”, also did so as one of the representatives for Third High, one of the favorites to win this year.
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393Third High’s representatives would present last. With modern transit’s speed and comfort, they could reach Yokohama from Kanazawa even if they left the morning of, but that did not guarantee that nothing out of the ordinary would occur along the way. Thus, the team elected to leave school at noon the day before and spend one night in Yokohama.
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395“George, it’s about time.”
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397“Already? Got it, I’m on my way.”
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399Kichijouji, who was currently reading something wholly unrelated to the Thesis Competition and the subsequent report, responded to Masaki’s call and thumbed the power button of the Book Player in his hands.
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401(Wish I could bring this along. Maybe I could ask for permission……)
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403The trip to Yokohama took 3 hours.
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405It was simply too boring to sit there and stare.
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407Kichijouji reluctantly glanced at his Book Player carrying the unfinished article.
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409However, the data recorded within had been restricted by the National Magic University and it was forbidden to remove it from the premises.
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411Any request to borrow the material would undoubtedly be rejected.
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413With a sigh, Kichijouji forced himself to curtail any lingering attachments (not that there was anything important enough to warrant this overblown statement).
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415He put the book back on the shelf and stood up after picking up the travel bag by his feet.
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417The itinerary for Yokohama called for a large bus that could bring their stage device along.
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419Accurately speaking, they were taking the bus to the loading point, loading the entire bus onto the bullet train (cargo trains that could carry entire buses were now commonplace), and then heading to Yokohama at 600 kilometers per hour, so they would reach their destination without switching rides (mostly).
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421Although he wasn’t exactly normal, he was still a 15 year old high school student. If he didn’t have to worry about the other passengers, he probably wouldn’t be bored if he could chat with his friends, he thought.
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423They were probably going to meet that man in Yokohama.
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425No, they were going to meet again, that was the more appropriate description.
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427Using the Year 1 student from First High whom they secretly saw as their rival as the topic, he could definitely use the man’s young sister to tease his best friend to spend the time, Kichijouji thought with a wicked smile on his face.
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433There was an upper class bar located near the top floor of the skyscraper “Yokohama Bay Hills Tower” that overlooked the Yokohama Harbor. A man and woman were taking in the scenery while raising glasses filled with ruby red fluid to their lips.
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435“The new wine from this year is quite exquisite.”
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437“A pity I cannot identify the differences in taste. My apologies for wasting the choice wine you provided.”
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439Unlike her usual inconspicuous garb, tonight Fujibayashi paid careful attention to her attire as she charmingly smiled, prompting Inspector Chiba Toshikazu to frantically wave his empty hand.
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441“No, this wine is a fresh product that the private bar here doesn’t care about, so you can bring it into the store as soon as it’s ready…… It’s not really valuable……”
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443“Ara, isn’t it wonderful to be able to sample this so quickly after its fermented?”
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445With Fujibayashi tilting her nose closer to the glass as she closed her eyes and slowly twirled the wine in the glass before opening her eyes to reveal a smoldering gaze, Toshikazu could only smile awkwardly.
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447“……Ah, so long as you like it. Thanks to Fujibayashi-san, the case was finally wrapped up, so please consider this my insufficient gift of appreciation.”
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449“Pot, meet kettle, Mr. Inspector. After all, I couldn’t just let them run wild either.”
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451“Is that the Fujibayashi Family’s stance? Or is it…… Nay, my apologies.”
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453Noticing the clear eyes watching him without a trace of intoxication, Inspector Chiba recalled his agreement with Fujibayashi.
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455She only had one condition for providing information integral to the investigation.
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457And that was to “never ask of her background or goals”.
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459Not asking about her background appeared to be an odd request for Fujibayashi Kyouko.
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461She was the daughter of the famous Fujibayashi Family who were renowned for Ancient Magic and the granddaughter of Kudou Retsu, one of the elders from the Ten Master Clans, which was something he knew in the beginning.
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463On top of this, she added a condition to “never ask for her background”, which blatantly implied that she was more than meets the eye.
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465“Speaking of which, Mr. Inspector. Was the invitation today solely to ‘return the favor’?”
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467“Eh!?”
468
469Seeing the eldest son of the Chiba Family almost spray the contents of his glass all over the place, the young lady of the Fujibayashi Family smiled because of her successful surprise attack.
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471“If Mr. Inspector is available, I would enjoy his company beyond tonight and even tomorrow.”
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473“Eh, ah, O-Of course! If you don’t mind, of course I will accompany you!”
474
475Chiba Toshikazu had not led a life wholly devoid of female company. The Chiba Family’s dojo also had female disciples and his sister once fiercely berated him as the “dishonorable and lecherous Kazu-nii” owing to his wild days during his years as a student.
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477Rather than saying that he wasn’t used to associating with women or was inept at dealing with women, it would be more appropriate to say that Fujibayashi was just special.
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482
483“Thank you very much. Then, shall we say 8:30 in the morning at the Sakura Town Bus Station?”
484
485“……Morning?”
486
487Inspector Chiba could only stare blankly at the smirking Fujibayashi.
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489“Are you unaware that tomorrow they are holding the National High School Magic Thesis Competition at the International Conference Hall?”
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491“No, I do know that……”
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493“I am acquainted with one of the young men presenting tomorrow, so I have to go cheer him on.”
494
495“Ha……”
496
497Although he wasn’t going to say this, Inspector Chiba’s face seemed to betray his expectations for “I thought you meant something else”. Fujibayashi’s enticing words naturally led him to interpret her words as “accompany me tomorrow (night)”.
498
499Seeing Toshikazu’s expression, not only did Fujibayashi not bat an eyelid, her smile remained the same as well.
500
501“Oh, yes, make sure to inform all your subordinates as well. Make sure to prepare not only their CAD, but also weaponry and live ammunition would be of great assistance.”
502
503“Fujibayashi-san, what are you……”
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505The listless expression was swiftly dashed by shock and tightened as if someone had poured cold water on him.
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507“Of course, let’s hope that nothing happens.”
508
509After answering Inspector Chiba’s question this way, Fujibayashi quietly filled her wine glass.
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515Chapter 9
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519
520The opening day for the National High School Magic Thesis Competition.
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522Tatsuya and Miyuki arrived at the rendezvous site without any accidents along the way.
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524The path was clear because the cargo truck bringing the stage devices had already unloaded its cargo.
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526Isori appeared to have beat them here,
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528And they could also see Kirihara with Sayaka in tow.
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530Based on their timing, the siblings appeared to be the last ones to arrive.
531
532“……Onii-sama, I believe you need to do something.”
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534Tatsuya’s consciousness, that had been doing its best to escape from reality as an innocent bystander, was forcibly dragged back into the mix by Miyuki’s voice.
535
536“Do I have to do something……?”
537
538Faced with Tatsuya’s sour expression, Miyuki nodded in “deep regret”.
539
540Before their downcast eyes, Erika and Kanon were glaring darkly at one another.
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546“What’s the matter?”
547
548Tatsuya was not the only one present who was a close acquaintance of both Erika and Kanon.
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550In terms of closeness, Miyuki also counted as one of their dear companions, whereas Isori certainly outranked Tatsuya from a relationship standpoint.
551
552Yet, Kanon refused to listen to Miyuki’s mediation or Isori’s nudge to remain neutral.
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554Sighing, Tatsuya interposed between the two glaring individuals.
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556“Ah, Tatsuya-kun, good morning-”
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558After Tatsuya joined in, Erika quickly gave him a carefree greeting.
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560While completely ignoring her opponent in the glaring contest.
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562Now, Kanon’s eyes darkened even further.
563
564Seeing this, Tatsuya got a firm grasp of the situation.
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566However, even with that understanding, he was still stuck between a rock and a hard place.
567
568“—Shiba-kun, why don’t you speak with this unreasonable ojou-sama?”
569
570(Seriously…… Not even a “would you like to”, but a “why don’t you”, eh……)
571
572Whether or not Kanon consciously realized this, her word usage had thrown the entire burden over to Tatsuya for him to handle.
573
574“Ha……”
575
576Nonetheless, Tatsuya adopted a “it doesn’t matter” kind of attitude. No matter how Kanon saw this, when compared to the two of them fighting it out, if he could swiftly put an end to all the fuss, at least the incident would be quickly handled even if he was a little heavy handed.
577
578“If you’re leaving all the decision making to me, then I’m not going to hold back.”
579
580Tatsuya didn’t include any further conditions but asked for the power of attorney.
581
582Realizing this, Kanon unwillingly furrowed her brows.
583
584However, once she saw Isori next to her refrain from objecting, she grudgingly accepted this.
585
586
587
588
589
590Tatsuya brought Erika and Leo to one side of the main conference hall and sat down on the sofa.
591
592(Naturally, Miyuki sat next to him.)
593
594“……Well, I get the overall gist of things.”
595
596Tatsuya said towards the two individuals who were set on causing mayhem.
597
598“Erika probably didn’t want a head-on confrontation either.”
599
600“……Sorry. I ended up causing Tatsuya-kun a lot of trouble……”
601
602This rare, praiseworthy attitude that Erika displayed astonished Tatsuya. Based on her personality, she wasn’t the type to read the subtle changes in other’s emotions as her strong (more like “intentional”) personality often rubbed people the wrong way despite her good intentions, thus leading to considerable awkwardness.
603
604In this regard, Tatsuya still had a long way to go as a judge of character. The human heart was not something that could be so easily deciphered like magic.
605
606“—It’s not like you have to be part of the security detail, you can cheer us on from the audience stands. If anything happens, no one would complain if you chipped in to help.”
607
608Tatsuya intentionally placed emphasis on the word “help”. Hearing this, Erika’s previously downcast expression reverted to her usual warmth to the point that the corners of her lips twitched in a smile that clearly said “you evil man”.
609
610“Help, eh?”
611
612“If you’re bored before the match, then come play around in the back area. Since you’re friends of mine, you don’t have to hold back.”
613
614Hearing Tatsuya emphasize the words “play” and “friends” in his proposal, Erika and Leo exchanged a look before bursting into delighted laughter.
615
616
617
618
619
620As the hour of the opening ceremony drew near, the waiting room for every school became quite lively.
621
622Based on the schedule, the last school would present many hours from now, but it was only natural for the students who came to attend the Thesis Competition to be highly interested in the subject regardless of whether they were the speakers on stage, the supporting cast, or simply just supporters from school.
623
624Everywhere in the main hall, students could be seen chatting away with their peers from other schools.
625
626Students were not the only ones who had surpassed their official affiliations when it came to communication.
627
628
629
630
631
632Haruka came to the Thesis Competition not because of her job as First High’s faculty member, but because of her work as an intelligence operative for Public Safety.
633
634After the events in April, Public Safety became deeply interested in Tatsuya.
635
636To be precise, the department within Public Safety that Haruka belonged to developed an interest in Tatsuya’s background.
637
638However, whenever they investigated the details around him, the higher ups would apply pressure on them.
639
640Haruka didn’t directly feel the heat, but she overheard her superior complain about it when she received her mission.
641
642This only served to deepen her director’s interest. Since they couldn’t dispatch any official investigators, the mission was handed directly to Haruka.
643
644Of course, Haruka resisted this. Back in April, Haruka tried her best to drive the point home that he wasn’t an opponent who would fall for her traps, but naturally this was completely ignored. Thus, she fell into a situation where she was forced to continue despite her inadequacies when dealing with Tatsuya.
645
646She was ordered to uncover Tatsuya’s real identity, but experts had already gone over his personal data with a fine toothed comb and came up with “nothing to report”.
647
648Originally, her talents didn’t lie in this direction. Even so, she had planned to use counseling to sound him out, only to make no progress whatsoever, which was only to be expected when her observation target never utilized the counseling services.
649
650Thus, her inefficient plan of action that had no guarantee of success was to investigate his acquaintances, especially the contacts that were not from school.
651
652The target of her investigation was currently preparing the presentation device in the room assigned to First High. She had no excuse to enter the room, but as stated earlier, Haruka wasn’t adept at handling Tatsuya.
653
654Stuck between her personal feelings and sense of duty, the result was Haruka adopting a passive stance holding a cup of coffee while maintaining her surveillance of the entrance from the main hall (also, disposable cans had vanished in this day and age as all containers had recycling as first priority).
655
656Fortunately for this, this was not without progress. Shortly after her observation began, a female guest visited the room. From her age and appearance, she was no high school student. She wasn’t even a college student.
657
658She was probably her own age. Matching the face against her memories, that woman probably wasn’t affiliated with the school.
659
660But she had an impression of her from somewhere.
661
662“……So it is her.”
663
664After referencing the picture taken by the anti-theft camera issued from Public Safety with the numbers, the image search verified whether she recalled incorrectly.
665
666“The Electron Sorceress……”
667
668In Haruka’s high school days, she was an individual of considerable renown. Taking her gender into account, she may be called a heroine, but Haruka felt that the term hero would be more applicable……
669
670The individual responsible for delivering the victory to Second High during the Nine Schools Competition — the Electron Sorceress.
671
672For Haruka, who gave up on being a Magician from the moment she took the high school entrance examination, she was a young girl who aroused both envy and awe.
673
674After graduating from the magic university, rumor had it that she joined the Defense ministry, but what was she doing visiting First High’s room instead of her alma mater Second High?
675
676Still, it wasn’t like it was completely unnatural. There was nothing strange about wearing casual clothes on Sunday. Maybe she was here to recruit students who were about to graduate and didn’t know that only the Shiba siblings were inside. Heck, maybe she came to see Miyuki.
677
678However, Haruka’s instincts told her that this woman was a clue to Tatsuya’s background.
679
680
681
682
683
684Not knowing that they were under such rigorous observation — no, maybe precisely because they were aware — the siblings were conversing with Fujibayashi, who dropped in to visit.
685
686“Miyuki, long time no see. The last time we met face to face was at least half a year ago.”
687
688“Ah, the last time we met was in February, so it has been a long time indeed.”
689
690“I went to see the Nine Schools Competition too. We held a small get together in the room to welcome Tatsuya, wouldn’t it have been better if Miyuki came along too?”
691
692Saying this, Fujibayashi leveled a “why didn’t you bring her” look at Tatsuya.
693
694Nevertheless, if he was cowed by this he wouldn’t be Tatsuya.
695
696“Bringing Miyuki along would be too eye-catching.”
697
698Tatsuya’s gaze swiftly added that catching too much attention would cause difficulties.
699
700Miyuki was a tad embarrassed whereas Fujibayashi smiled with a helpless look on her face.
701
702—Looks like he wasn’t going to get an answer by beating around the bush.
703
704“Speaking of which, Fujibayashi.”
705
706He didn’t call her lieutenant because this was a normal public facility. Although he had already checked for bugs, he still couldn’t let down his guard.
707
708“Is it OK for you to visit First High’s waiting room?”
709
710For the uninitiated, this might seem like an incomprehensible statement, whereas those who were slightly in the loop might still interpret this incorrectly. People who only knew of Fujibayashi’s exploits during her high school years would likely wonder “is it OK for the previous champion from Second High to have a friendly conversation in the waiting room of a rival school”.
711
712“No worries.”
713
714Of course, the people in question had no misconceptions.
715
716“Times like these, having an official capacity helps a lot. As one of the technical officers attached to the Weapons Development Division of the Defense Department, there’s nothing odd about visiting someone like you who exhibited a high degree of skill during the Nine Schools Competition.”
717
718“Just as it’s natural for a member of the Fujibayashi Family, right?”
719
720“Exactly. So Tatsuya-kun, feel free to call me ‘Lieutenant Fujibayashi’, ‘Fujibayashi’, or even ‘Fujibayashi-nee’, OK?”
721
722“Uh, I think nee-san is going to be impossible.”
723
724Tatsuya smiled halfheartedly at Fujibayashi’s mischievous joke. —Of the wry smile variety.
725
726“Then, let’s leave the greetings there…… I have good news and bad news, which one do you want to hear first?”
727
728A familiar conversation began, Tatsuya thought, then allow me to respond to a classic question with a classic answer.
729
730“Let’s hear the good news first.”
731
732“……Don’t people usually respond with ‘let’s hear the bad news first’?”
733
734“Then let’s hear the bad news first.”
735
736Seeing Tatsuya reply back while feigning ignorance, the normally stoic Fujibayashi sighed.
737
738“……Forget it, it’s OK. Let’s start with the good news first. The Mobile Suit from beforehand has been completed. Captain Sanada said that they will be delivered tonight.”
739
740“Really…… As expected of him. Still, is it too late to run live tests tomorrow after returning to Tokyo……”
741
742“Tomorrow, there will be a parade. Of course, in reality the captain wants to test this out as soon as possible, so he wanted to show off to you as soon as he could. The primary components were all furnished on your end, so at the very least he wants to bring out the assembled model in order to encourage himself. Yesterday, he even said something ridiculous like ‘this way I can save face’.”
743
744“That’s hardly ridiculous. The actual question was whether we could create something that could stand the rigors of live combat.”
745
746“I will convey your words to the captain. I believe he’ll relax a lot more now.”
747
748Tatsuya chuckled wryly when Fujibayashi winked at him.
749
750“Now…… for the bad news. No matter how we look at it, there’s no way the earlier incident will just end there.”
751
752“Is there a problem?”
753
754Tatsuya’s face tightened, or more like his face became oddly solemn. By his side, Miyuki uneasily gazed at him.
755
756This time, even Fujibayashi couldn’t simply joke about it.
757
758“The details are here.”
759
760She said as she handed a data card to Tatsuya.
761
762Apparently, the contents were so classified they didn’t want to send this over the wireless.
763
764“Although I’ve added several layers of protection on my side…… There’s still a chance this has already been leaked.”
765
766“Understood. We will make preparations on our end.”
767
768The siblings nodded in unison.
769
770Seeing this, a trace of concern flashed across Fujibayashi’s face, but she didn’t forbid them to do so.
771
772“We hope that nothing will happen, but…… If the worst case scenario does occur, we’ll be relying on you.”
773
774No matter how much it hurt her, he was still an invaluable asset, so her position did not afford her the luxury of saying “stay out of it”.
775
776
777
778
779
780The time was 8:45 AM. The audience stands were almost entirely filled.
781
782After Tatsuya reviewed the information Fujibayashi passed him, Isori and Kanon came in.
783
784“Shiba-kun, time to switch.”
785
786They changed the guard every time a presentation finished, with the order already prearranged. Isori was very interested in the second topic “development of magic assistance devices capable of molecular rearrangement” presented by Fourth High, so he volunteered to keep watch during the first presentation.
787
788Tatsuya felt that there was no need to pay extra heed to the sequential order since there was a screen in the waiting room, but he still acquiesced to Isori’s proposal.
789
790“It’s all yours.”
791
792Concisely handing over his responsibility, Tatsuya headed to the stands with Miyuki.
793
794
795
796
797
798—But.
799
800The two of them came to a halt in the main hall.
801
802“Shiba-san.”
803
804Miyuki was the one who was addressed.
805
806The voice came from a young man, or maybe a teenager was more appropriate. The voice was slightly uneasy, probably caused by his heightened anxiety. The face belonged to someone whom the siblings hadn’t seen for two months.
807
808“Ichijou-san.”
809
810Ichijou Masaki had called out to Miyuki.
811
812He wore a “security” wristband on his left arm. Rather than being one of the supporting cast from Third High, he appeared to be serving in the security detail composed of students from all nine schools that was headed by Katsuto during the Thesis Competition. This turnout was likely because he saw Miyuki while executing his mission of patrolling the premises.
813
814“Long time no see, Shiba-san. I believe the last time was during the evening ball.”
815
816“……Ah, likewise, long time no see.”
817
818This natural yet unnatural pause was caused by a cognitive dissonance because Masaki saw Miyuki as his dance partner during the ball, while Miyuki viewed Masaki as her brother’s opponent during the Newcomer’s Division.
819
820In order to cover this, or muddle the waters, Miyuki bowed with extreme politeness.
821
822
823
824
825
826“Ah, no, me too……”
827
828This flawless etiquette rattled Masaki even though he was more accustomed to moving through higher social circles than Tatsuya. The young man (probably another member of the security team who was Masaki’s partner) also stood there mesmerized. Miyuki’s devious plan worked perfectly.
829
830“Are you patrolling the area?”
831
832It was only now that Miyuki smiled and asked the rhetorical question.
833
834“Y-Yes, indeed.”
835
836Isn’t it a sign of immaturity to be shaken so easily? Tatsuya thought but changed his mind upon reflecting that when the opponent was Miyuki, such a result was inevitable.
837
838Even he who was closer to her than anyone else and had had his mind reforged sometimes forgot himself while watching her. Thus, it was unsurprising that this outsider who stood in such close proximity to the fairest one would be overly conscious of Miyuki’s presence.
839
840Miyuki was not privy to her brother’s ruminations. Her interest was roused and her mood excellent.
841
842“Since Ichijou-san is giving this his all, I think we can safely relax. We’ll be in your care.”
843
844True, it was heartening to know that the "Crimson Prince" was part of security. However, Tatsuya’s thoughts were purely an objective assessment. —Still, isn’t this laying it on a little thick?
845
846“Yes! I will do my utmost to live up to your expectations!”
847
848Completely nonchalant, Tatsuya wondered whether Masaki could make it through the day.
849
850“Good luck to you too, Tomitsuka-kun.”
851
852“Ah…… Thank you for your encouragement.”
853
854Masaki’s companion who had been left alone to one side dizzily replied back in a tone that was a little too stiff to be addressed to someone in the same year.
855
856
857
858
859
860Although they didn’t need to be as uptight as security, after Erika accepted the job on the spot, objectively speaking she had no intentions of backing down.
861
862After regrouping with Mikihiko since they missed him while taking Tatsuya and company to the waiting room and reuniting with Mizuki, who had sent word ahead of time she would be late, they sat down in four seats in the audience stands. Erika paid extra heed to “easy observation areas” as well as “suspicious individuals”.
863
864Her efforts were not in vain. In one of the rear corners of the audience stands, she found a familiar figure.
865
866Speaking of familiar, it was more like she couldn’t forget even if she tried. This was a face that she used to see every day, and even with their schedule clashes nowadays, they still saw each other once every two days or so.
867
868
869
870
871
872The other person also noticed Erika. No, maybe the other person noticed Erika even sooner. While this wasn’t anything surprising after taking the other person’s ability into consideration, this still irked Erika to no end.
873
874“Eh? Erika, over there is……”
875
876Mikihiko caught on as well.
877
878Again, it wasn’t weird that he would recognize that person either.
879
880“Erika-chan, is that someone you know?”
881
882“Just a Casanova wannabe. He’s probably waiting for a woman right now.”
883
884Before her compatriots in the adjacent seats could turn this into a conversation, Erika opted to behave as if she didn’t know that person.
885
886Well aware of Erika’s rocky relationship with Toshikazu (well, one-sided on Erika’s part), Mikihiko avoided rocking the boat and shifted his gaze as Leo, insensitive to the currents, was about to ask him to clarify.
887
888
889
890
891
892“Miyuki, do you know Tomitsuka Hagane?”
893
894“Ah, he’s from the neighboring class, so I only know his name and face. Does Onii-sama know him?”
895
896After finding an empty seat, the siblings’ conversation drifted not towards their rare guest Masaki, but to the reticent Tomitsuka Hagane.
897
898—This must be what people refer to as unrequited passions.
899
900“Tomitsuka is one of Sawaki-senpai’s subordinates. In addition, the Tomitsuka Family’s ‘Range Zero’ is quite famous.”
901
902The Tomitsuka Family dominated one area within the Hundred Families.
903
904Even people without Tatsuya’s encyclopedic knowledge knew of the heresy incidents caused by Magicians of that family.
905
906“What are you guys talking about?”
907
908Suddenly, Erika joined in after arriving from the audience stands.
909
910“Erika, are you alone? Where’s Leo?”
911
912The two of them were just together, thus prompting Tatsuya’s question.
913
914Yet, displeasure colored Erika’s face.
915
916“……Tatsuya-kun. I’d like to take this opportunity to make something perfectly clear.”
917
918Erika wasn’t the sort to do something outrageous like throw a fit with so many witnesses around, but her commanding tone was charismatic in its own right.
919
920“Can you stop lumping me together with that? I only taught him a few tricks and gave him a weapon, beyond that there’s nothing going on.”
921
922“That’s not what I meant……”
923
924Despite the misunderstanding, Tatsuya was not an “honest guy”, but this time he was being earnest. He truly meant nothing by his words.
925
926Speaking of which, wasn’t this overreaction a hint that she hadn’t discerned this was an issue? Tatsuya turned that thought over in his head, but wasn’t evil enough to verbalize it.
927
928“Where’s everyone else?”
929
930Since the triumph during the Nine Schools Competition, their peers from Year 1 Class E had expressed great interest and all claimed that “We’re all coming to cheer you on~!” or something like that, so everyone from class planned on showing up.
931
932“Our classmates shouldn’t have arrived yet, right? That’s probably because they know we’re set to go onstage in the afternoon. Ah, but Mizuki and Miki are here in the front row. There’s a lot of chemistry going on there.”
933
934Erika chuckled mischievously as she sat next to Tatsuya.
935
936So she disliked talking about her own business, but was quite intrigued when talking about others.
937
938In this regard, Erika was a perfectly normal young girl, Tatsuya thought.
939
940
941
942
943
944It was 9 AM. The National High School Magic Thesis Competition kicked off with a solemn but not pompous atmosphere. Even with assistance from the military, but when compared to the student events during the Nine Schools Competition, the Thesis Competition was highly valued by universities, corporations, and research institutions. A properly handled introduction might even lead to an individual’s career path (from a headhunting perspective). Taking into the account the magic knowledge being bandied around, this sort of scale at the event was perfectly understandable.
945
946After going through the forms for the keynote speech, the introduction for the first presentation, Second High’s “Usage of Convergence-Type Magic to Observe and Utilize Dark Matter” began.
947
948Now that the Thesis Competition officially began, the hustle and bustle of the main hall died down.
949
950Uninterested in magic technology, Haruka opted to take a break at the cafe to alleviate her boredom.
951
952Just as she was about to do so.
953
954“Ono-sensei.”
955
956A familiar voice called out from near the main entrance.
957
958“Asuka-sensei.”
959
960As the school counselor responsible for the mental well being of First High’s students, Haruka naturally shared a close relationship with Asuka, who headed the infirmary responsible for physical injuries, although their relationship had not progressed to “friends in private”.
961
962“Did Ono-sensei also come to see the thesis presentations? I thought you said you weren’t very interested.”
963
964This comment might be too fiery depending on tone, but Asuka’s amicable tone caused Haruka to suspect “Did I ever say that?”. With Asuka’s easily approachable personality, she was almost better suited to be a counselor than herself, Haruka thought enviously.
965
966“No, there’s just a few things on my mind…… Compared to that, Asuka-sensei, why are you here? Are you here with this child?”
967
968Haruka was correct in that Asuka wasn’t alone. By her side, there was a young girl out of uniform who was obviously a high school student. While she had some inkling, she didn’t appear to be one of Haruka’s students.
969
970“Indeed. Hirakawa-chan said she wanted to watch today’s presentations. Although she’s recovered from her illness, her physical body is still a little frail, so I tagged along.”
971
972While these words smacked of blatant VIP treatment, but once she heard the name Hirakawa, Haruka immediately recalled where she heard this name. While she had no part in handling the attempted data theft, Haruka still had to make her report to the division of Public Safety she belonged to, so she was familiar with the overall situation.
973
974Stimulating her with the success of fellow high school students, helping to provide her with life goals and ultimately changing her mentality was perfectly logical from a psychological standpoint.
975
976“Is that so. Keep up the good work.”
977
978Haruka frankly spoke words of encouragement to Asuka.
979
980
981
982
983
984After taking a small detour, Haruka arrived at the cafe on schedule.
985
986Strictly speaking, a customer that nursed one cup of coffee for 20 minutes wasn’t a good customer for this cafe.
987
988She could just whittle away the time here until her day’s work was done. Although she wanted to think that way, the world wasn’t as easy as one’s imagination. More like, society’s trials demanded much of her.
989
990“May I borrow a bit of your time?”
991
992Haruka’s heart almost stopped when someone reached out to her.
993
994As if to fill the loss of time, the next instant her heart started beating violently.
995
996—Maybe this was a misconception, but her shock had truly upset her heartrate and breathing patterns.
997
998The one who spoke to Haruka was Fujibayashi.
999
1000“Eh…… Ah, please.”
1001
1002“Thank you.”
1003
1004Gracefully sitting down, she ordered a cup of red tea from the waitress who swiftly appeared with a gentle voice.
1005
1006In comparison to Fujibayashi’s coolness, Haruka could not contain her anxiety.
1007
1008That was hardly her fault.
1009
1010Her observation target suddenly directly initiated a conversation with her.
1011
1012Though Haruka was frantic enough to spit fire, since she was unable discern the other person’s motives, she could only sit and watch in silence as Fujibayashi took a sip from the red tea that the waitress brought and let out a deep breath.
1013
1014“……It is a little embarrassing to be watched like that.”
1015
1016Faltering, Haruka only noticed that she was staring at Fujibayashi when the other person pointed it out to her.
1017
1018“S-Sorry.”
1019
1020Her shame and wavering continued to grow, but Fujibayashi’s next words allowed Haruka’s heart to immediately calm down.
1021
1022“That’s fine. It is my honor to be held in such high esteem by the ‘Phantom Lady’.”
1023
1024“……I believe it is my honor for someone like me to dwell in the memory of the ‘Electron Sorceress’.”
1025
1026Despite the heightened wariness in her tone, this degree of change was unavoidable given the circumstances.
1027
1028The title Fujibayashi spoke of — “Phantom Lady” was nowhere near as famous as Fujibayashi’s alias, the “Electron Sorceress”. This name was only familiar to intelligence operatives when discussing the unidentified female spy who bore that name.
1029
1030The fact that her identity as the “Phantom Lady” was exposed was more than sufficient to push Haruka to the brink.
1031
1032Given that she was able to carelessly drop such an incredible secret, then on the flip side, her “demand” was likely to be heavy as well.
1033
1034“So, what is it?”
1035
1036Seeing a determined expression usurp her previously faltering form, Fujibayashi smiled in satisfaction.
1037
1038“I think you know very well without me going into detail, correct?”
1039
1040“……My sincere apologies, but I’m not as gifted as you are.”
1041
1042In reality, Fujibayashi’s words were spot on as Haruka had already surmised her opponent’s demands.
1043
1044It was just that if she said “I understand” and nodded her head — this would be the same as raising the white flag.
1045
1046“You’re too humble. You graduated from college and graduate school with outstanding grades. Even Kokonoe-sensei gave you high marks.”
1047
1048Haruka mentally clucked her tongue.
1049
1050The Fujibayashi Family was famous for their Ancient Magic users. Thus, it came as no surprise that they shared a close relationship with Kokonoe Yakumo, arguably one of the authorities on Ancient Magic.
1051
1052On the other hand, Haruka and Fujibayashi’s first meeting was today at this minute.
1053
1054The trump cards she prepared were utterly useless.
1055
1056“……I don’t plan on making any demands that will put you in a difficult position.”
1057
1058This was not Fujibayashi backing down. This was a mental salvo in the form of her flaunting her superior position.
1059
1060“I just want to propose that the two of us avoid encroaching on the other’s territory. That’s all.”
1061
1062Technically speaking, this comment held no information whatsoever, but was a profound demand that left no room for misinterpretation.
1063
1064“……I don’t entirely get your drift.”
1065
1066Actually, Haruka got the gist of Fujibayashi’s proposal, just as Fujibayashi’s request fell in line with her own speculation. In other words, Fujibayashi wanted Haruka to halt any investigation towards Fujibayashi’s military activities.
1067
1068On the other side, Fujibayashi clearly understood that Haruka comprehended the meaning of her request.
1069
1070“Do you want me to repeat myself clearly once more?”
1071
1072With a relaxed expression, Fujibayashi watched the fuming Haruka clench her teeth.
1073
1074This vixen! Even if she continued to glare at her, right now Haruka could only bray like a whipped dog.
1075
1076“Don’t worry. Your superiors won’t prosecute your responsibilities.”
1077
1078In other words, she had already made her move against Haruka’s higher ups.
1079
1080Fujibayashi lightly rose to her feet and handed her check to Haruka.
1081
1082She could plainly pay for her bill at the table and it was doubly irritating to walk over to the front counter.
1083
1084Haruka and Fujibayashi’s first encounter ended in Haruka’s complete and utter defeat.
1085
1086(……Still, it’s not like I got nothing out of this!)
1087
1088At the very least, there definitely existed an unspeakable secret between Shiba Tatsuya and Fujibayashi Kyouko.
1089
1090This was the only thing made painfully clear.
1091
1092Haruka failed to discover her own mulishness as she vowed to avenge herself for this slight.
1093
1094
1095
1096
1097
1098As the main lead for First High’s performance, Suzune arrived at the conference hall just after 11 AM, which was an hour earlier than expected.
1099
1100This was after the third presentation, Fifth High’s grandiose “The Control of Plate Tectonics and Gradual Extraction of Tectonic Force”. Tatsuya was in the waiting room to welcome Suzune, Mayumi, and Mari.
1101
1102“I came early~.”
1103
1104Mayumi’s voice prompted people to question exactly how old she was, but how was he supposed to respond to that, Tatsuya thought as he fell into a reverie.
1105
1106“What is it?”
1107
1108“Nothing really…… Is there a reason why you came ahead of schedule?”
1109
1110Neither Mari nor Suzune took exception, so any sign of exhaustion on his part would be his loss. Injecting fresh enthusiasm into himself with those words, Tatsuya reinvigorated himself and asked this question.
1111
1112(Speaking of which, Miyuki had already decided to see no evil, speak no evil, hear no evil.)
1113
1114Tardiness would be a huge problem, but there was no problem in getting here early.
1115
1116The waiting room designed to accommodate presentation devices had sufficient room for the Shiba siblings as well as several upperclassmen with professional grade skills prowling around. Even with three extra female students in the mix, the place wasn’t cramped.
1117
1118“The interrogation ended earlier than expected.”
1119
1120Still, this nominally unimportant question provoked a response from Mari that could not be ignored.
1121
1122“Another interrogation? And on this day in particular?”
1123
1124There was no need to ask who was being interrogated. He was present when Sekimoto was arrested, though to be brutally honest about his clandestine activities, he had illegally recorded evidence that time.
1125
1126Still, there was only that one time.
1127
1128Of course, that wasn’t the only time he saw Sekimoto. He was also there when they went to interrogate the first time.
1129
1130After Lu Gonghu’s assault, Sekimoto had devolved into panic. Since Mari maintained that this was not caused by her magic, the only possible cause would be that he realized his life was on the line. There was no way that Sekimoto would be unaware that the latest attack aimed to silence him.
1131
1132Hence dedicated government officials were conducting a thorough investigation surrounding Sekimoto.
1133
1134“We really should have finished yesterday……”
1135
1136“It was difficult to get permission in the first place…… And I can’t just throw the family name around like that.”
1137
1138That’s true, Tatsuya thought. Given that he wasn’t part of a criminal organization, it was extremely difficult to receive permission to interrogate individuals deemed as invalids.
1139
1140“But why today? Couldn’t you continue tomorrow?”
1141
1142“Such an optimistic outlook doesn’t fit your personality.”
1143
1144Tatsuya’s natural question was subjected to Mari’s correction for some reason.
1145
1146“Sekimoto and Hirakawa’s sister targeted the data for the Thesis Competition, though that does not appear to be their only objective. No matter how you put it, since they took aim at the data, then there is a definite possibility that the organization using them as cat’s paws will act during the competition itself.”
1147
1148“Ha. There is that possibility.”
1149
1150This was within Tatsuya’s calculations. However, even if they had intel on the organization lurking in the shadows, they still didn’t have time to prepare countermeasures. Without an emergency response task force on standby, even the regular army of a monarchy would find it impossible to mobilize on a moment’s notice.
1151
1152In regards to competition security, they had already done everything they could to prepare for emergencies by having Katsuto lead the group. Since Sekimoto wasn’t privy to the details of the assault, interrogating him should not be a high priority.
1153
1154Regardless, pointing out these details was not in Tatsuya’s job description.
1155
1156“Indeed. Since there is that possibility, we cannot ignore it. After all, the more intel the better.”
1157
1158In today’s case, when compared to mostly unusable intel, Suzune’s presentation stood at a much higher priority. In any case, since this was all in the past, there was no need to quibble over the details.
1159
1160“I see. So did you find out anything new?”
1161
1162“Yeah. After verifying once more, Sekimoto had traces of mental manipulation.”
1163
1164“……No wonder.”
1165
1166Regardless of the utility of this piece of information, its contents were sufficient to astonish Tatsuya.
1167
1168“Why wasn’t this detected during the psychological screening?”
1169
1170Ever since Sayaka had been magically manipulated into leading terrorists from “Blanche” onto campus in spring, the students of First High were required to undergo scheduled psychological evaluations.
1171
1172For prospective Magicians who were to be the pillars of public safety and national defense, being brainwashed into serving foreign powers was no joke at all. For the school administrators and the government organizations responsible, this was a malicious nightmare that ultimately voided any concept of “student privacy”.
1173
1174With the discovery of another victim of mental manipulation, this measure appeared to be redundant. After all, why were they going through psychological evaluations in the first place now?
1175
1176“The psychological evaluation is held at the beginning of each month. There is a high probability that Sekimoto was ensnared after that.”
1177
1178“Nicely executed…… Was it medicinal?”
1179
1180“That remains unclear. Neither myself nor Mayumi are experts in that field.”
1181
1182Although Tatsuya thought “Is that so?” in regards to Mari’s answer, he refrained from commenting further.
1183
1184“The psychologist didn’t say, but this definitely was not done through normal means. Maybe this is the real ‘Evil Eye’.”
1185
1186Mayumi’s opinion was more or less deeper than Mari’s comment.
1187
1188“So they sent a natural Outer-Systematic Magician……”
1189
1190Unlike the “Evil Eye” developed by Russia before the formation of the New Soviet Union and passed on to separatist terrorist cells, Magicians who could naturally wield mental interference Outer-Systematic Magic had the power to completely rewrite someone’s personality. These wielders of the “True Evil Eye” could completely change a person’s activities in a short period of time while the victim and other people were still in the dark.
1191
1192“Hm, no matter how strong the mental interference magic is, successful imprinting is largely impossible without conforming to the target’s subconsciousness.”
1193
1194This was just like hypnosis. On the surface, human consciousness appeared to be easily malleable, but was actually incredibly resilient. Manipulating unspecified emotions and impulses were another story, but the sort of magic that interfered with established physical behavior — trying to interfere with the conscious mind and manipulate voluntary decisions was incredibly challenging.
1195
1196“From the very start, Sekimoto disagreed with this country’s way of handling magic behind closed doors. He believed that all Magic Sequences and Activation Sequences across the globe should be shared publicly and that this was the only way for magic to achieve true evolution. In summation, he’s a proponent of open resourcing.”
1197
1198Hearing Mayumi’s explanation, Mari added a few bitter words of her own.
1199
1200“That may be true from a scholarly standpoint, but given that international hostility still exists in reality, I am hard pressed to say that he is correct.”
1201
1202Mayumi’s voice expressed a trace of compassion.
1203
1204“Rather, that is undeniably the wrong position.”
1205
1206Tatsuya decisively came to that conclusion. At least for him, theories that did not jibe with reality had no purpose whatsoever.
1207
1208“……How stringent, Tatsuya-kun.”
1209
1210“……At any rate, they found an opening through Sekimoto’s ideals. Then, they planted the powerful conception that it was the duty of magically progressive nations to pass on their advanced research to magically underdeveloped nations.”
1211
1212“Underdeveloped countries refer to who?”
1213
1214Mari’s did not have an optimistic answer for Tatsuya’s question.
1215
1216“We didn’t get that out of him. He didn’t appear to know.”
1217
1218“……So a lock was placed on his consciousness.”
1219
1220I see, so that’s how they realized he was being mentally controlled, Tatsuya speculated.
1221
1222“So that’s why the next step has gone beyond our initial projections.”
1223
1224Mari’s voice was tinged with anxiety that mirrored the concern in Mayumi’s tone.
1225
1226“There is a chance that hostile action beyond our imagination will occur. Hanzou-kun asked me to pass the message to everyone. Rin-chan, go finish your task. We’ll be here and will keep a careful eye on the conference hall. Tatsuya-kun, please be careful as well.”
1227
1228“I will.”
1229
1230Though Tatsuya never let down his guard after receiving Fujibayashi’s advice, he honestly accepted others’ concerns on his behalf.
1231
1232While Tatsuya and company were discussing their decidedly not peaceful topic, Suzune continued to edit her draft without batting an eyelid.
1233
1234
1235
1236
1237
1238In the communications room within the same building, Fujibayashi used a special trick to receive a vitally important piece of information. She was busily looking for an empty room when she received the emergency summons and received the incoming transmission across the information dimension that ran no risk of being overheard.
1239
1240“Lu Gonghu escaped? My apologies, but is this information accurate?”
1241
1242“I know you don’t want to believe this, but it’s true.”
1243
1244Kazama’s voice came down the other line in a completely serious tone. Also, it wasn’t in Kazama to crack such a joke in poor taste.
1245
1246“The transport was attacked in transit to Yokohama. There were no survivors.”
1247
1248“Which means that Lu Gonghu’s corpse was not at the site…… Speaking of which, why did they select today to move him?”
1249
1250“The so-called Thesis Competition should only be an event at the high school level.”
1251
1252“My sincere apologies!”
1253
1254Hearing Kazama’s logical response, Fujibayashi finally realized that she was unconsciously grumbling to her superior and immediately apologized.
1255
1256“Still, you have a point on why today was chosen specifically to transport the prisoner.”
1257
1258Naturally, Kazama wasn’t the sort of person to care about these tiny scruples.
1259
1260“There must be a reason why the enemy chose today to launch their rescue mission. We must take that possibility into account.”
1261
1262As combat personnel, Kazama had served as a front line commander since the very beginning, so he valued practicality much more than others.
1263
1264“Fortunately, we’ve already made preparations to test out the new equipment at Tsuchiya tomorrow. Leaving for your position effective immediately, our ETA is around 1500 hours.”
1265
1266“Understood. I will take heed of the local conditions.”
1267
1268“Thank you, lieutenant.”
1269
1270After receiving Kazama’s orders, Fujibayashi saluted even though she knew that he couldn’t see her due to their method of communication.
1271
1272
1273
1274
1275
1276In regards to the changes in the mission parameters handed down by Mayumi, Hattori grabbed Kirihara to report the alterations and interrogation results to Katsuto (Sayaka and Erika had left for lunch at this point).
1277
1278“I see. Kirihara and Hattori, form up and patrol the outer perimeter.”
1279
1280“Understood!”
1281
1282Coincidentally, Katsuto shared a table with them during lunch as they dined on simply packed sandwiches. After listening to Hattori’s report, he handed out new orders without hesitation.
1283
1284Normally, that would have been all there was to it because Katsuto rarely asked for input from underclassmen.
1285
1286“Hattori, Kirihara. Based on the current situation, do you get the feeling that something’s awry?”
1287
1288Yet today, Katsuto broke form and asked.
1289
1290“Something’s awry?”
1291
1292Kirihara glanced at Hattori, who wore a look of bemusement as he opened his mouth.
1293
1294“……Even taking into account Yokohama’s unique features, there are too many foreigners around.”
1295
1296Since he wasn’t born in Yokohama and was unfamiliar with the area, Hattori diligently inspected the conference hall surroundings in the previous two weeks. Compared to that time, Hattori felt that there was a noticeable spike in the number of foreigners around.
1297
1298“So Hattori also thinks so.”
1299
1300“Yes. Does Juumonji-senpai concur?”
1301
1302“Hm. What do you think, Kirihara?”
1303
1304“Sorry. I didn’t notice anything about the foreigners, but……”
1305
1306“Go ahead.”
1307
1308“Yes. It’s just that, compared to the conference hall, the aura along the streets is oddly filled with killing intent.”
1309
1310“Hm…… Indeed.”
1311
1312Katsuto nodded and fell into thought. Though it was no more than 10 seconds, both Hattori and Kirihara felt that Katsuto’s silence lasted more than ten minutes.
1313
1314The atmosphere was very heavy.
1315
1316“Hattori, Kirihara. Put on Kevlar for your afternoon patrols.”
1317
1318The two of them stared wide-eyed at Katsuto’s face.
1319
1320Despite the rudeness of their stare, Katsuto didn’t mind in the slightest as he picked up the short range wireless communicator.
1321
1322He issued the same order to all security personnel that he just gave to the two of them.
1323
1324
1325
1326
1327
1328The introduction for the afternoon presentations was set for 1 PM.
1329
1330First High would get the stage at 3 PM. There were less than two hours until their presentation.
1331
1332After switching the guard before noon, Tatsuya and Isori were discussing the last minute details.
1333
1334They were each accompanied by one person.
1335
1336Tatsuya had Miyuki whereas Isori had Kanon.
1337
1338The industrious “workers” before noon had vanished at this point.
1339
1340In order to avoid distracting Suzune, Mayumi and Mari gravitated towards the door.
1341
1342Over there, someone knocked lightly on the door.
1343
1344Mayumi carefully opened the door to find the young girl who was even shorter than she was that was to succeed her.
1345
1346“Ara, A-chan. Can you leave your place now?”
1347
1348Mayumi whispered quietly because Azusa was selected as one of the student judges.
1349
1350There was no panel of judges for the National High School Magic Thesis Competition. Since there were great alterations in the crowd during each presentation, it was too difficult to ask the crowd to make an assessment.
1351
1352This wasn’t something they could say as representatives, but other than the professional assessors, each school also sent one student as a judge to help analyze presentations from other schools.
1353
1354This judge position was traditionally filled by each school’s Student Council President. First High was no exception, so Azusa had started her task in the early hours of the morning.
1355
1356“The first group in the afternoon finished early, so I wanted to check in on everyone.”
1357
1358“So you came to encourage us. Thank you, Nakajou.”
1359
1360“Ah, you’re welcome…… Sorry, Suzune. I hope I’m not distracting you.”
1361
1362Even though she kept her voice down, since Suzune was in the room, Azusa’s already petite body shrank even further (atmosphere-wise).
1363
1364“Who’s in the lead right now?”
1365
1366Isori turned and joined the conversation. The conversation was cut short in the middle, but not because Isori looked down on Tatsuya. —If that was the case, he might have suffered a blizzard when he entered the waiting room.
1367
1368“It’s Fourth High, as expected. This year, they brought another device that took a lot of time and effort.”
1369
1370Azusa’s assessment caused Isori to tilt his head slightly.
1371
1372“Don’t you think they’re a little too vainglorious?”
1373
1374Fourth High presented second before the noon break and was the school that Isori was most worried about.
1375
1376“Still, it was amazing they were able to create a system that could flawlessly combine magic. ……Ah, sorry, it’s about time for the next presentation. Good luck everyone.”
1377
1378Given that she never forgot her original objective even at the very end, Azusa should be doing a fine job as the Student Council President. Probably.
1379
1380
1381
1382
1383
1384In the audience stands, a select group of people sat together.
1385
1386Highly motivated, Erika and Leo sat there with their weapons along with Honoka and Shizuku, who had joined them during lunch, as they eagerly waited for Tatsuya’s group to appear.
1387
1388“Mikihiko…… How is it?”
1389
1390Although they were waiting patiently, they weren’t just twiddling their thumbs.
1391
1392“Nothing out of the ordinary yet.”
1393
1394After using Sensory Synchronization to receive local intelligence from the spirits he sent out, Mikihiko responded to Leo’s whispered question.
1395
1396“Mizuki?”
1397
1398“No sign of anything strange.”
1399
1400Mizuki shook her head at Erika’s concise question.
1401
1402Mizuki replaced the glasses she took off earlier.
1403
1404They were preparing for the “enemy” that was not in the audience and might or might not arrive.
1405
1406
1407
1408
1409
1410After being checkmated by Fujibayashi and unable to continue her assignment, Haruka could just have departed from the premises, but that would have seemed like she was fleeing from the field. This mentality caused Haruka to remain in the main hall and subconsciously monitor the crowd.
1411
1412“Ono-sensei.”
1413
1414Suddenly, someone called out to her from behind.
1415
1416“Tsudzura-sensei?”
1417
1418Turning around, she found the lead adviser for First High’s representative team standing there with a long time no see expression.
1419
1420“Why are you waiting here? Is something the matter?”
1421
1422“No, not really…… I was just taking a break. Tsudzura-sensei, why are you here?”
1423
1424Haruka’s question prompted a mixed smile to appear on Tsudzura’s face.
1425
1426“There’s no need for yours truly to appear today. We have a fine team of representatives this year.”
1427
1428This guy actually referred to himself as “yours truly”…… Even taking that into account, Haruka involuntarily acknowledged his “excellence”.
1429
1430“Still…… I have this irritating premonition.”
1431
1432Hearing him say that in an unambiguous tone caused Haruka to grow a little anxious.
1433
1434Tsudzura was a magic researcher and Magician who obtained his position as an assistant professor at the magic university at a young age.
1435
1436His expertise lay in magic geometry and he was especially famous for a theory known as Polyhedron Magic.
1437
1438It was a theory that viewed macro phenomena as simply a combination of triangular pyramids and quadratic prisms and used the motions of these multiple polyhedrons to grasp the changes in phenomena. Using magic that manipulated multiple imaginary polyhedrons to alter the Eidos was one of the paths in modern magic theory.
1439
1440However, Polyhedron Magic theory’s utility as a stepping stone to solving deficiencies in modern magic like partial phenomena changes had been overshadowed by its potential to predict the future.
1441
1442By using a recognition system to capture the entire world seen as three dimensional objects along with the myriad interactions between these objects in the world, the caster could view the various interactions through an abstract, three dimensional projection. This abstract model for viewing the world allowed a certain degree of data manipulation to project the future to be somewhat facile.
1443
1444As the young authority on Polyhedron Magic, Tsudzura’s “premonition” was on a certain level closer to a “prediction”.
1445
1446“……That being said, I do have a premonition that the worst will not come to pass.”
1447
1448Although the last comment seemed to be tacked on, Haruka earnestly prayed that he was not just saying that to comfort her.
1449
1450
1451
1452
1453
1454It was three in the afternoon. The presentation from First High’s representatives went off on schedule.
1455
1456While Third High’s Kichijouji Shinkurou, the discoverer of the “Cardinal Code”, was the main draw of the Thesis Competition, First High’s topic regarding one of the three Great Puzzles of Gravity-Type Magic “Gravity Control-Type Thermonuclear Reactor” also received a lot of attention. In the main hall, besides the students and faculty from First High, many individuals affiliated with the magic university and civilian research organizations had gathered there. The audience rested their expectant gazes on the podium.
1457
1458There, a large device sat on the stage bathed in natural light while Suzune spoke through the international conference hall’s speaker system with a clear and calm voice.
1459
1460Next to her, Isori was manipulating the model device and Tatsuya was on stage switching the CAD displays and Activation Sequences.
1461
1462“……Is the actualization of thermonuclear power a necessity? This question has already been answered in the previous century.”
1463
1464Suzune stood next to a gigantic glass ball.
1465
1466Tatsuya toggled the Activation Sequence for Release-Type Magic.
1467
1468The instant Suzune touched the control panel on the CAD, the deuterium gas sealed within the globe ionized and reacted with the coloring painted on the inside of the globe to emit a dazzling light.
1469
1470This magnificent display caused a small ruckus to break out in the crowd.
1471
1472“First of all, there is the time needed for the deuterium serving as fuel to ionize as well as the ability to maintain the situation. Both of these issues can be solved through Release-Type Magic.”
1473
1474Still, this phenomenon has been proved in previous experiments so it was a little lacking in originality.
1475
1476“The primary obstacle for thermonuclear power is the time created because the ionized electrons possess electric repulsion that prevents fusion chemical reactions, or simply the problem caused by the interaction of the electrons.”
1477
1478The flashing globe dimmed and a large screen descended from the center of the stage.
1479
1480“Our predecessors attempted to achieve thermonuclear power without magic by applying overwhelming pressure to overcome electric repulsion.”
1481
1482The screen displayed images from the previous century’s experiments and various models and charts.
1483
1484“However, regardless of whether they used ultra-high temperatures or surface compression to increase pressure, they never managed to create a stable thermonuclear reaction. This was because of a multitude of reasons such as the container’s durability and fuel resupply. Even if the thermonuclear reaction itself could be sustained, there are examples where the energy output is so tremendous that it became unwieldy. Still, all the problems can be narrowed down to the fact that the electron repulsion forces require too much resources to be feasible.”
1485
1486The silver screen rose.
1487
1488Behind the screen, two large cylindrical magnets stood there, each with four cords attached between them to form a basic experimental device.
1489
1490Isori raised one of the cylinders — although it looked like he was using his hands to pull them, he actually used magic — and let go of his hands.
1491
1492The vigorously waving magnets were repelled by the magnetic force before they could make contact.
1493
1494“This should be plainly obvious without an explanation, but the electron repulsion force will be magnified the closer the objects are to one another. Objects with strong Coulombic force will increase the repulsion force as they draw closer, so contact will be avoided.”
1495
1496Suzune silently stood by the repeatedly shaking device and wore earplugs to protect her ears from the cacophony while her hands remained on the control panel.
1497
1498Immediately, a sound similar to repeated banging on a large gong reverberated across the conference hall.
1499
1500Suzune took her hands off and the two magnets silently returned to stillness.
1501
1502“However, electron repulsion force can be reduced with magic.
1503
1504Here, we successfully developed a Magic Sequence that can reduce the Coulomb’s force to 1/10000 within a brief period of time.”
1505
1506Suzune did not raise her voice.
1507
1508Nevertheless, her words caused the audience to break into a furor.
1509
1510As if to signal for quiet, the primary model slowly rose from the stage.
1511
1512If asked to describe it, the model looked like a piston forged from transparent materials.
1513
1514A modified piston connected to a flywheel and crank handle was inserted into the large, transparent cylinder. There were two valves at the top of the cylinder. From there, a transparent tube was inserted that was connected to a sink filled with clear water.
1515
1516“This device takes into account the dangers of radiation, so we used hydrogen instead of deuterium gas. Release-Type Magic is used to ionize the hydrogen gas within the canister while Gravity Control-Type Magic and Coulomb’s force resistance magic are activated at the same time. The ionized electrons have their repulsion force lowered by the Coulomb Force Resistance Magic and are gathered by the Gravity Control-Type Magic in the center, thus triggering a thermonuclear reaction. This device requires approximately 0.1 seconds to achieve a thermonuclear reaction. As you know, a thermonuclear reaction will not continue indefinitely on its own. If impetus is not supplied externally, the reaction quickly grinds to a halt. Our school’s Gravity Control-Type Thermonuclear Fusion Reactor proactively makes use of this element. Once the reaction stops, Oscillation-Type Magic is used to cool the Deuterium gas to levels that the container can withstand. The heat energy recovered will serve as fuel for Gravity-Control Type and Coulomb Force Resistant Magic. Drawn by the gravitational field generated by the Gravity Control-Type Magic, the inertia of the piston continuously rises and sends the cooled Deuterium gas into the heat sink……”
1517
1518While Suzune was delivering her explanation, Isori operated the control panel for the demonstration device. Ionization, Coulomb Force Control, Gravity Control-Type, cooling, energy recovery, ionization, Coulomb Force Control, Gravity Control-Type…… Isori regularly activated this chain of magics several dozen times in a row just like that.
1519
1520“Currently, a highly skilled Magician is required to operate this device for sustained operation. However, if a device highly efficient in energy recovery could be used, I believe that a Gravity Control-Type Thermonuclear Reactor that only needs a Magician to jump start the device can become a reality.”
1521
1522The second Suzune’s voice stopped speaking, the conference hall was filled with thunderous applause.
1523
1524The reason why Gravity Control-Type Thermonuclear Reactors were thought to be impossible was because the target of the Gravity Control-Type Magic, the elements in the nuclear reaction, are constantly diminishing. In addition, since Gravity-Control Type Magic is directed towards a quantitative value, the lowered value of the elements would cause the magic to fizzle under the mistaken impression that the “target does not exist”. Hence a nuclear explosion is possible, but sustained nuclear reactions were held to be impossible.
1525
1526
1527
1528
1529
1530Now, with the addition of Coulomb Force Resistance Magic, Gravity Control-Type Magic was no longer as integral as before. This way, there no longer needed to be a continuous nuclear reaction, but instead they borrowed a leaf from the new technique “Loop Cast” to ignite multiple nuclear reactions. The praise from the audience below unanimously declared this to be an incredible idea.
1531
1532
1533
1534
1535
1536Thirty minutes were allotted for each presentation during the Thesis Competition with ten minutes in between.
1537
1538The previous team employed these ten minutes to help gather their materials and devices so that the next team could come on stage.
1539
1540Compared to the presentation itself, the representatives and support personnel from each school felt that the break time in between was the busiest part.
1541
1542Tatsuya was just about to dismantle the control device used during the presentation when the next team’s operator (the assistant who had the same job as Tatsuya) came forth to setup their equipment.
1543
1544“Nicely done. Allow me to congratulate you on a fine performance.”
1545
1546Initially, Tatsuya wasn’t aware that this comment was directed to him because there was practically no time to converse.
1547
1548Still, based on the direction of the voice, the target must be him. With that in mind, he raised his head to find Kichijouji Shinkurou smiling fearlessly at him.
1549
1550“Should I say thank you here?”
1551
1552“Don’t worry about it, I wasn’t expecting anything in return anyways.”
1553
1554Pah, Tatsuya closed the lid on the case and hefted the control panel that was about the size of the electron synthesizer on the table. Kichijouji set down a similar case carrying a control panel in the same place.
1555
1556There were connections at both ends of the stage to allow ease of access from both sides, so was there a reason why he specifically chose the same side as Tatsuya?
1557
1558“Gravity Control-Type Magic is a vital component in Flying-Type Magic and Coulomb Force Control Magic is a refined edition of ionization convergence magic developed by the previous Sirius, William Sirius. Compared to those, the fluidity of that ‘Loop Cast’ was astonishing.”
1559
1560“Your keen eye is truly terrifying. As expected of Cardinal George.”
1561
1562As Tatsuya was speaking, Kichijouji’s hands were busy setting up his equipment.
1563
1564Tatsuya was the only student from First High left on stage.
1565
1566He was just about to leave the stage, holding the rectangular case as he walked towards the backstage.
1567
1568“However, we’re not going to lose. In fact, we’re going to beat you this time.”
1569
1570A voice called out behind him.
1571
1572That sounded a little childish, but it didn’t seem malicious.
1573
1574How should he make a witty comeback, Tatsuya thought as he stopped to turn around.
1575
1576Just then, a colossal boom and vibration sent the entire hall shaking.
1577
1578
1579
1580
1581
1582Chapter 10
1583
1584
1585
1586
1587The current time was 3:30 PM on October 30th, 2095 AD.
1588
1589Future generations would refer to this turning point as the “Scorched Halloween”. The “Yokohama Incident” that instigated this event began at this moment.
1590
1591
1592
1593
1594
1595After First High’s presentation ended, Fujibayashi struck up an idle conversation with Toshikazu in the main hall — they had been together since the morning, so they were almost running out of topics — when suddenly his brow twitched and he broke off.
1596
1597The terminal reserved for messaging (a security device with no data storage capabilities and strictly reserved for powerful signal broadcast) in his breast pocket was vibrating.
1598
1599Sending an apologetic look towards Fujibayashi, he turned around to pick up the phone.
1600
1601“This is Chiba, is it Inagaki? What!? ……Understood, I’m on my way.”
1602
1603Inspector Chiba turned around to find Fujibayashi also finishing her phone call.
1604
1605“I need to head to the scene.”
1606
1607“I will remain here.”
1608
1609Neither of them asked whether the other person received the same communication they did. Taking it on faith that they were on accord, there was no feeling of incompatibility.
1610
1611“Sorry! Contact me later if anything comes up.”
1612
1613Fujibayashi nodded and didn’t waste her breath as Toshikazu fairly flew towards his car with magic fueling his sprint. —His feet appeared to be moving faster.
1614
1615
1616
1617
1618
1619“What’s the situation!?”
1620
1621Three minutes after receiving the transmission, Toshikazu roared into the phone slotted in the car for more information as he sped towards the scene.
1622
1623“The exploding car that plowed into the control building is still burning. There are no follow up suicide attacks.”
1624
1625On the other side of the receiver came a much more composed report.
1626
1627Even so, the contents of the message were not relaxing.
1628
1629The target was the Harbor Control Building near Hillside Harbor.
1630
1631The sturdy construction material itself was able to repel the heat and force from the explosion so there was no need to worry on that account. However, the staff members were all civilians and must be paralyzed into inaction after being on the receiving end of a terrorist attack. In the meantime, while the staff were evacuating and before harbor security could take over, there would be a massive surveillance hole over the harbor proper.
1632
1633(Too reliant on bureaucracy!)
1634
1635Owing to resistance from politicians who were hostile to the expansion of organizations such as national defense and police, harbor control and airport control were all relegated to civilian control. Harbors for island nations are synonymous to the national border, so if they hated handing things over to the army, at least there should have been armed police on station. This was something that the Chiba Family, including Toshikazu, had proposed long before.
1636
1637
1638
1639
1640
1641“The cargo ship moored in the harbor has fired rockets. They appear to be infantry mounted weaponry.”
1642
1643Toshikazu was so shocked that he almost caused an accident as he frantically pulled back on the wheel and roared back into the mic.
1644
1645“Nationality!?”
1646
1647“It’s registered as an Australian freighter, but based on its shape, it’s probably an amphibious vessel for mobile forces.”
1648
1649The registration was falsified.
1650
1651What the hell were the guys in immigration and the coast guard doing! Suppressing the urge to scream, Toshikazu switched the call.
1652
1653“……Father? It’s Toshikazu. Right now the Yokohama Hillside Harbor is under attack from a camouflaged vessel of unknown nationality. Please request help from national defense. Afterwards, please send Ikazuchimaru and Orochimaru to me ASAP. ……What about Orochimaru? We already decided that it’s going to Erika!”
1654
1655
1656
1657
1658
1659In order to receive further orders from the unit, Fujibayashi headed for her own car. It wasn’t that she didn’t want Toshikazu to chase after her, she truly was going to stay here. That was because she was using the transmitter instead of the wheel.
1660
1661Also, Fujibayashi thought, the one who made that prediction last night was none other than herself, but even she never expected things to turn so grave. Based on her initial estimates, she thought that the spies’ confederates would attempt to abduct hostages to rescue their comrades.
1662
1663Thus, Fujibayashi was quite surprised when she heard the number of men and equipment that Toshikazu shifted at her advice. Now, that move seemed to have paid dividends. Was this brawn over brains? Fujibayashi thought with amazement.
1664
1665
1666
1667
1668
1669The hour pointed to 3:37 PM.
1670
1671Suddenly, explosions and vibrations shook the conference hall.
1672
1673The audience had no clue what was going on and had no idea what to do.
1674
1675“Miyuki!”
1676
1677At this time, Tatsuya called out the name that held the highest priority in his mind.
1678
1679“Onii-sama!”
1680
1681Hearing the response from below stage, Tatsuya took two steps — one to leap off the stage, the second to adjust his posture — to reach his sister’s side. Although she was in the second row, Miyuki’s reaction was equally swift as she reached Tatsuya’s side.
1682
1683“Onii-sama, what is……”
1684
1685Miyuki asked hesitantly. Though she was slightly bewildered, she was not shocked out of her wits.
1686
1687“Must be a hand grenade near the front entrance.”
1688
1689On the other hand, Tatsuya didn’t show a hint of anxiety or confusion. Tatsuya had already heard this sort of disruption numerous times when training with the Independent Magic-Equipped Battalion. Based on this experience, he didn’t even need to access the information dimension to know that the incident occurred near the entrance of the building. While this was no cause for optimism, but now that he had successfully reunited with Miyuki, there was nothing else he needed to worry about.
1690
1691“Grenades!? Are the upperclassmen alright?”
1692
1693“The front entrance have security personnel arranged by the Association along with Magicians with combat experience. The average criminal organization stands no chance……”
1694
1695Despite Tatsuya’s answer, he still had a foreboding premonition. Earlier, Fujibayashi had handed him a data card that detailed the possibility that foreign governmental organizations might have a hand in this.
1696
1697As if to prove his foreboding premonition beyond all doubt, several gunshots were heard.
1698
1699(Those aren’t automatic rifles…… They’re high powered rifles used against Magicians!)
1700
1701The average firearm was rendered impotent against the magic wielded by combat Magicians.
1702
1703The Juumonji Family’s Phalanx was the pinnacle of this and stood as its finest example.
1704
1705In the latter half of the 21st century, the primary armament for infantry remained firearms, so bullet-resistant magic brought a huge advantage in land warfare.
1706
1707However, offense and defense always swung back and forth. In order to compensate for powerful defenses, even stronger attacks will be developed. Magic was no exception, as magic was not omnipotent. If the moving object’s inertia exceeded the magic’s interference strength, then the subsequent magic failure would cause any speed reducing, trajectory altering, or targeting magic to fizzle.
1708
1709A physical shield that was penetrated would only reduce the blow, but if magic failed to alter the phenomenon then that was the same as having no defenses whatsoever.
1710
1711The design behind anti-Magician high powered rifles was to introduce high speed rounds with extreme penetration to render defensive magics from Magicians ineffective. However, in order to achieve bullet speeds that would nullify magic from combat Magicians, the technique and development level must surpass typical production caliber by at least 2 or 3 levels.
1712
1713This is practically beyond even the main armies of smaller countries. Private ownership — without government support — like criminal organizations or terrorists was frankly impossible. Speaking of which, during the assault on Hachiōji Special Detention Center several days ago, Lu Gonghu’s comrades were equipped with high powered rifles. For such attacks to strike at such close intervals hinted at a powerful force backing them. Based on this, the enemy was almost guaranteed to be minions from the Great Asian Alliance, or even soldiers from the Alliance itself. Still, what was the reason for their grand assault?
1714
1715Tatsuya was slightly perplexed. Without knowing his opponent’s goals, there was no way to predict the degree of escalation. Generally speaking, he should “prepare for the worst”, but currently the worst had no upper limit. Without knowing the “worst case scenario”, there was no way to develop proper counter-measures.
1716
1717Even if setting the average situation as a prerequisite, this main hall wasn’t secure either. Normally, he would be leading Miyuki to the resting area to escape danger.
1718
1719Yet now, there were Erika and Mizuki in the audience stands.
1720
1721Although he was only responsible for Miyuki’s protection, he didn’t want to act solely out of duty.
1722
1723Also, even if he didn’t provide protection, the majority of the people possessed the ability to flee on their own, but he couldn’t just sit and ignore the people close to him.
1724
1725Regardless, maybe this was a blessing or a curse, but his headache didn’t last very long.
1726
1727Accompanied by violent footsteps, a squad toting military-grade rifles stormed the crowded stands.
1728
1729(How useless!)
1730
1731Though there was a definite possibility, but they still broke through the perimeter too quickly. Amid the screams, Tatsuya mentally clucked his tongue.
1732
1733While the audience was still stricken with terror, the first ones to decisively leap into action were the students from Third High still on stage.
1734
1735Apparently, their topic had some sort of anti-personnel use as they operated the CAD on the stage and attempted to use magic against the invaders.
1736
1737Several gunshots went off.
1738
1739Faster than Third High’s magic could go into effect, several bullets hit the back wall of the stage.
1740
1741Seeing the power of the bullets, they were definitely holding the high powered rifles that Tatsuya envisioned.
1742
1743“Be quiet!”
1744
1745This roar seemed to hint at their source. If they were foreigners, then smuggling themselves into the country must have been a recent incident. They weren’t wearing uniforms or combat gear, but there was an odd sense of conformity. There were a variety of colors, but each of them wore high collared shirts and lanky cargo pants of superb make. No matter how you looked at it, these guys were definitely not your run of the mill gangsters.
1746
1747Modern magic had already achieved speeds that could rival firearms thanks to the advent of the CAD. However, that was only breaking even based on the “Magician’s power”, so theoretically speaking, they could not attempt any reckless resistance when the enemy had guns ready.
1748
1749“Put your gear on the floor.”
1750
1751The invaders appeared to be adept at fighting against Magicians.
1752
1753It was possible they were Magicians themselves.
1754
1755Only a portion of incredibly powerful Magicians would rely solely on magic in battle. Magicians could also serve as soldiers wielding guns, and in fact the majority of them were.
1756
1757On the stage, the students from Third High including Kichijouji — Masaki was not there — regretfully placed their CADs on the ground.
1758
1759Courage and recklessness were two different things. The students from Third High must have been educated on that point.
1760
1761Tatsuya was slightly moved by their reaction, but unfortunately an incident was heading right his way.
1762
1763The siblings who were just standing in the path were particularly conspicuous.
1764
1765“Hey, you two as well.”
1766
1767One of the invaders pointed his gun their way and walked cautiously forward.
1768
1769The words were undoubtedly aimed at Tatsuya. Strictly speaking, there was no room for misinterpretation.
1770
1771(So that’s it……)
1772
1773There were a total of six. Three for primary assault and three in support. Tatsuya didn’t point his CAD at the invaders who could possibly be terrorists or mobile forces. After all, he couldn’t use “Mist Dispersal” in front of so many people, but the situation might not allow him otherwise.
1774
1775(Need to try and use other magic to cover this.)
1776
1777Just as Tatsuya ruminated on this with a blank expression on his face, the invader repeated his angry howl.
1778
1779“Faster!”
1780
1781The angry howl was more frantic, but Tatsuya didn’t move a whisker. The sort of thinking that abandoned all resistance to preserve personal safety didn’t jibe with his education and training.
1782
1783Tatsuya wordlessly watched the approaching man.
1784
1785No, his gaze would be more appropriately described as “observed”.
1786
1787There was no trace of fear or unease in his eyes.
1788
1789He was only observing the man’s entire body, the weapon in his hand, and the flashing muzzle.
1790
1791Probably growing more and more anxious by the cold eyes watching him or subconsciously feeling the tendrils of a nameless dread, the man approaching Tatsuya increased the pressure on the trigger finger.
1792
1793“Hey, wait!”
1794
1795He likely failed to discern his comrade’s voice.
1796
1797A volley of gunfire sounded amid the cries.
1798
1799The bullets filled with discernible killing intent were fired from within 3 meters, causing people to envision an unavoidable tragedy, which only deepened the shock people felt.
1800
1801A right hand held something before his chest.
1802
1803That was the sole change in Tatsuya’s posture.
1804
1805Not a single drop of blood flowed down his body.
1806
1807The bullets that were fired left no traces on the walls, ceiling, or roof.
1808
1809Spasms broke out over the man’s face, as he fired a second, third time.
1810
1811Each time, Tatsuya’s right hand flashed towards another position.
1812
1813The hand motion was so fast that no bystander could see what he was doing.
1814
1815By the time anyone could react, they could only see the change in the hand’s position as it remained holding something.
1816
1817“He…… couldn’t be catching the bullets, could he?”
1818
1819Someone woodenly murmured.
1820
1821“How, is he doing this……?”
1822
1823Another nameless individual replied blankly.
1824
1825“Monster!”
1826
1827
1828
1829
1830
1831The man threw aside his gun because he was stricken by panic.
1832
1833Setting aside using magic to block bullets, seeing the outrageous sight of someone catching the bullets would naturally create the misconception that guns had lost their use.
1834
1835However, his fighting spirit was not broken as he pulled out a combat blade and swung it towards Tatsuya. Plainly, the man was a highly trained soldier.
1836
1837But, the next act shocked everyone even further.
1838
1839Tatsuya didn’t look like he had any time to avoid the incoming attack, so he opened his hand to form a karate chop and slashed towards the man’s wrist that was holding the blade.
1840
1841
1842
1843
1844
1845Tatsuya’s karate chop sheared through the man’s wrist with no resistance whatsoever.
1846
1847
1848
1849
1850
1851“Ah!”
1852
1853A scream started to issue from the man’s mouth — but that was all he could manage
1854
1855Before the sound could fully turn into a scream, Tatsuya’s left fist impacted the man’s chest.
1856
1857The blood spewing from the shredded right wrist stained Tatsuya’s clothes.
1858
1859That was all the resistance the man could muster.
1860
1861Without sparing a glance at the fallen man, Tatsuya leaped backwards and returned to Miyuki’s side to protect her.
1862
1863This unexpected, even unimaginable turnout caused the audience and the invaders to freeze in their tracks.
1864
1865Not only was all physical activity suspended, even their minds ground to a halt.
1866
1867Except for one person.
1868
1869“Onii-sama, I need to clean up the blood stains, please wait a second.”
1870
1871Miyuki’s soft words traveled to every corner of the previously silent conference hall.
1872
1873Her voice did not waver in the slightest.
1874
1875As if saying that she would “dust off the lint”, there was no trace of unease or incompatibility.
1876
1877That voice also served as a signal for the halted time to move forward.
1878
1879“On them!”
1880
1881Security personnel from both sides of the stage unleashed their magic. Although the invaders sought evasive action, but under the well-trained magic attacks from the students selected for the Nine Schools Competition, they were taken out without exception.
1882
1883
1884
1885
1886
1887Miyuki activated her magic and cleansed the blood stains on Tatsuya’s hand and clothes. (Accurately speaking, the moisture was evaporated from the clothes and skin before dispelling the solids.)
1888
1889Although this was a matter of life and death, Tatsuya never batted an eyelid.
1890
1891No, “not batting an eyelid” would be incorrect. While it was true that there was no trace of wavering or excitement on his face, he did furrow his brows when he looked at the man collapsed in the pool of his own blood.
1892
1893Seeing that minute change in expression, Miyuki immediately activated another magic.
1894
1895The eviscerated right hand and wrist were frozen and the blood pool on the ground dehydrated to a dark red dust.
1896
1897Tatsuya turned around to find Miyuki smiling gently at him.
1898
1899Subconsciously, Tatsuya could only smile at his hyper competent little sister.
1900
1901Seeing her brother smile, Miyuki’s eyes glazed over for some reason (from Tatsuya’s perspective).
1902
1903However, this wasn’t the time to contemplate something like that as Tatsuya walked towards the entrance.
1904
1905Immediately, Miyuki was right on his heels.
1906
1907The siblings completely ignored the man with the severed wrist as they stepped over him.
1908
1909At this time,
1910
1911“Tatsuya-kun!” “Tatsuya!”
1912
1913At the same time, voices from a young lady and man called out.
1914
1915Normally, the two of them would frown at being so uniform, but this was not the time and place.
1916
1917Following Erika and Leo, Mikihiko, Mizuki, Honoka, and Shizuku surrounded Tatsuya and Miyuki.
1918
1919“What’s with the hand! Are you hurt!?”
1920
1921Despite Erika and Leo arriving first, Honoka’s frantic question didn’t lose out to them in the slightest.
1922
1923Seeing the earlier hand motion, Honoka consciously realized that there was some theatrics involved, but she wasn’t clear on what exactly occurred.
1924
1925In reality, he didn’t catch the bullets themselves, but used “Decomposition” on the physical body of the bullet and the trajectory and thus nullified the shots. Towards his friends who naturally knew nothing about this, Tatsuya said “It’s nothing” and raised his right hand to form a fist a few times to show them.
1926
1927Seeing this, Honoka and Mizuki finally relaxed, but Mikihiko and Shizuku were watching Tatsuya with eyes that clearly said “How did you do that”.
1928
1929Still, Tatsuya did not answer these unvoiced questions (not that he could answer these questions even if asked). He only answered Erika’s question.
1930
1931“Now we’re committed…… What’s the next move?”
1932
1933Why does she seem so upbeat about this, the retort was on his lips before he swallowed it since this would waste precious time.
1934
1935“Regardless of whether we choose to flee or counterattack, the first priority is to take out the enemy at the front entrance.”
1936
1937After he said this, Tatsuya paused for a moment.
1938
1939“Wait a second, why did you stop?”
1940
1941He originally wanted to say “So you do appear to be very happy” to Erika, who stood there with eyes sparkling, but after further consideration, he slowly shook his head.
1942
1943“Splitting up is somewhat better than reacting all the time and taking hits.”
1944
1945“Somewhat” was his only concession towards passive agreement.
1946
1947Thus, when he realized that not only Erika and Honoka, but even Mizuki and Shizuku lightened up at this, Tatsuya couldn’t help but think “Give me a break……”
1948
1949That being said, this was a state of emergency, so there was no time to lose.
1950
1951Tatsuya quickly led them towards the entrance.
1952
1953“Wait a minute…… Just wait a minute, Shiba Tatsuya!”
1954
1955However, they were unable to depart during the chaos because a voice frantically called them to a stop.
1956
1957“What is it, Kichijouji Shinkurou?”
1958
1959Tatsuya ruthlessly asked back.
1960
1961Yet, Kichijouji was not cowed by Tatsuya’s displeasure, or maybe because he didn’t have time to be afraid, so Kichijouji continued questioning Tatsuya.
1962
1963“Was that ‘Molecular Divider’!?”
1964
1965Kichijouji’s question caused everyone around them to start chattering to one another.
1966
1967“Molecular Divider Magic was a secret technique developed by the previous USNA Combat Magicians Commander, Major William Sirius. Unlike magic that weakens the molecular bonds, Molecular Divider Magic is one of the USNA’s most classified military secrets!”
1968
1969It was unknown whether this was a knowledge error, but Kichijouji’s interpretation was completely off the mark, but that suited Tatsuya just fine.
1970
1971“Why are you able to use that! How could you possibly know!?”
1972
1973“Is this the time and place to discuss something like that?”
1974
1975At the barrage of questions, Tatsuya intentionally used a tone that seemed to frantically try to maintain the facade — to Kichijouji, this sounded like “there’s no need to hide this any longer” — and curtailed the conversation.
1976
1977Of course, the truth was otherwise. The magic Tatsuya used was not the USNA military’s secret magic “Molecular Divider”, nor was he using martial arts to allow his bare hands to shear through human flesh. Just as he decomposed the bullets, he used his right hand as the origin and activated Decomposition Magic at point blank range.
1978
1979However, he was still under orders to maintain confidentiality. Also, this wasn’t the time and place to explain.
1980
1981“Saegusa-senpai, Nakajou-senpai, please evacuate from the area as soon as possible. Although their final goal remains unknown, their primary objective must be to kill or kidnap students with advanced magic skills.”
1982
1983After leaving this warning for Mayumi, who just appeared from the wings of the stage to see what happened, and Azusa, who sat in the last row as one of the judges, Tatsuya departed from the scene.
1984
1985
1986
1987
1988
1989Just as Tatsuya and company vanished through the doorway, an incredibly violent explosion shook the conference hall.
1990
1991Chaotic screaming and the furious din combined to shatter everyone’s nerves.
1992
1993Currently, the chaos had not spread to where Azusa stood in the foremost row of the judges’ seats.
1994
1995Not yet.
1996
1997However, at the current progression, this panic would undoubtedly lead to a stampede with lots of injuries. At this time, Azusa had no idea what to do or how to do anything and could only stand there frozen.
1998
1999“A-chan, A-chan…… Student Council President Nakajou!”
2000
2001Someone on stage reprimanded Azusa.
2002
2003Hurriedly clambering to her feet, Azusa raised her head to the stage.
2004
2005Standing on one side of the stage, Mayumi took several steps forward, caught Azusa’s eyes, and spoke to her.
2006
2007“At this rate, this will descend into a panic with lots of people getting hurt. So please use your power to settle everyone down.”
2008
2009“Eh!?”
2010
2011Mayumi’s words caused Azusa’s eyes to widen.
2012
2013This was not because she didn’t comprehend her meaning.
2014
2015“But, that……”
2016
2017Azusa’s magic could interfere with the mentality of others and clamp down on panic, making it particularly effective in these situations. However, mental interference magic was a highly restricted branch of magic and was not something adolescents could wield with impunity.
2018
2019“Isn’t your strength reserved for precisely these sorts of situations? Not my power or Mari or Suzune’s power, Azusa, right now we need your power.”
2020
2021At this moment, Mayumi wasn’t messing around with her words. She said Suzune, not “Rin-chan”, and Azusa, not “A-chan”.
2022
2023Normally, decorum demanded that she refer to them as “Ichihara” and “Nakajou”, but she could count on the fingers of one hand the number of times Mayumi called her by name. Based on this point alone, Azusa could tell that Mayumi was deathly serious and was earnestly requesting her to use mental interference magic “Azusa Yumi”.
2024
2025“Don’t worry about it, I’ll take responsibility. The Saegusa name isn’t just for show.”
2026
2027Mayumi adorably winked in order to ease Azusa’s mind. Calling on the “Saegusa” name was to hold off those in power who could just stand and fret at this chaos.
2028
2029She could understand that much. That sentence was no lie.
2030
2031She didn’t want to put all the burden onto Mayumi, but this wasn’t the time to say that.
2032
2033Azusa vigorously nodded and turned out, directing her gaze to the squabbling audience.
2034
2035She extended her hand to the necklace around her neck and pulled out a small pendant from her collar that could have been hidden in an elementary school student’s hand. Azusa unclasped the pendant and held it in her left hand.
2036
2037She took a deep breath and flooded the pendant with psions.
2038
2039This pendant was the core component of a CAD that was designed to support exactly one type of magic. Only one Activation Sequence was recorded within and, since only one function was necessary, all other components needed for switching Activation Sequences like buttons or monitors were excluded to form a miniature magic staff.
2040
2041
2042
2043
2044
2045A magic wand forged for one person and equipped with one magic spell.
2046
2047
2048
2049
2050
2051Azusa activated emotional interference magic “Azusa Yumi”. —A clear note that could be heard from front to back spread across the conference hall.
2052
2053This was a hallucinatory sound.
2054
2055It was not air, but a subconscious sound of the tides.
2056
2057It was not the oscillation of psions, but waves of pushions.
2058
2059Everyone thirsted for the clear reverberation the same way a traveler stranded in a murky, foul swamp felt the first drop of rain and raised their head to wait for the next one. Their entire consciousness was concentrated here.
2060
2061Before the first echo could disappear into the aether, everyone was subconsciously looking forward to the next note.
2062
2063People desperately wished for the next sound.
2064
2065At some point, cognitive processing stopped and listening was all that remained.
2066
2067This lasted for a mere 3 seconds.
2068
2069This paltry amount of time was all that was needed for people to switch from a state of panic to a trance.
2070
2071“I am Saegusa Mayumi, former Student Council President of First High.”
2072
2073The suspended consciousness of the audience was drawn by Mayumi’s voice that was amplified by the speakers.
2074
2075“Right now, we are under attack.”
2076
2077The voice that captured everyone’s attention dropped another sentence that sent everyone’s expression from blankness to a state of shock.
2078
2079“An unidentified vessel moored in the harbor is launching rocket attacks. In support of this, mobile forces concealed in the city have also launched their assault.”
2080
2081These were truly astounding words.
2082
2083For Azusa, if Mayumi hadn’t been the one saying this, she would definitely have been skeptical.
2084
2085But, just as Mayumi herself had said, “the Saegusa name isn’t just for show”.
2086
2087If it was her, then she would definitely get wind of the news and based on her standing, she couldn’t be sprouting lies. No matter how ludicrous her words were, they must be the truth.
2088
2089“Earlier, the malefactors we captured should be the invader’s comrades. Based on the earlier sounds of explosions, the target is likely the Magicians and magic technology in this building.”
2090
2091Mayumi paused briefly when she reached this point and swept her gaze over the crowd.
2092
2093Everyone was waiting on her words with bated breath.
2094
2095“As everyone knows, this conference hall has an underground tunnel which serves as an evacuation route to an emergency shelter.”
2096
2097No one shifted his or her gaze from Mayumi.
2098
2099“The emergency shelter has the capacity to hold us all.”
2100
2101They hung on to every one of her words.
2102
2103“However, the underground shelter can only protect against natural disasters and air strikes.”
2104
2105Not just the students, even the adults were completely focused on her.
2106
2107“It cannot stand against land based military forces.”
2108
2109Even the “powers that be”, so used to ordering people around, were listening in.
2110
2111“We suspect that the enemy has invested Magicians in the units. Unfortunately, the outlook for a shelter to last against magical attacks is not positive.”
2112
2113Now, everyone present knew of Mayumi. Regardless of whether it was her appearance, her competition performance, or the meaning behind her name.
2114
2115That was why not a single person derided her depressing outlook as “child’s play”. Taking in account the might of the “Saegusa” name, even the educators gave Mayumi free rein here.
2116
2117“That being said, fleeing into the crossfire on the streets would be even more dangerous. However, right now the most dangerous option is to remain here.”
2118
2119Immediately, the conference hall quieted.
2120
2121Mayumi was not foolish enough to waste this opportunity.
2122
2123“Representatives from each school please begin gathering students from your school. Whether we are going to flee to the shelter or flee the conference hall, there is no time to waste.”
2124
2125A wholly different ruckus spread across the hall. The voices calling out to one another were different in that there was an orderly sequence to them.
2126
2127“My apologies to the individuals unaffiliated with the nine schools, but please make your own way to safety. I regret to say that we do not possess the power to guarantee everyone’s safety.”
2128
2129This may seem like a ruthless statement, but there were no objections or catcalls. Everyone present was related to magic on some level, so when compared to normal plebeians, they generally approached the “abnormal” crowd.
2130
2131“If you’re heading for the shelter, please take the underground passage immediately. If you wish to flee, there are reports that the coast guard is sending ships to the Mizuho Docks.”
2132
2133Mayumi bowed and cut the mic before turning to Azusa.
2134
2135“A-chan, I’ll leave everyone to you. Teachers, please assist Nakajou.”
2136
2137The teachers with Tsudzura at their head nodded. On the other side, Azusa’s eyes widened.
2138
2139“Eh? President, no, Mayumi?”
2140
2141Seeing Azusa bubbling with questions with widened eyes, Mayumi smiled and nodded.
2142
2143“It’s perfectly clear. A-chan, you’re the current Student Council President for First High. Don’t worry, I know you can do it. After all, you were the one I personally trained.”
2144
2145Mayumi winked before turning away and hurrying to the resting area with Suzune and company.
2146
2147
2148
2149
2150
2151Directly ahead of the front entrance, assault rifles and magic were exchanging fire.
2152
2153The attacking mobile forces all had East Asian faces. They wore high collared tunics and lanky cargo pants of varying colors, much like the terrorists who invaded the conference hall. They were equipped with normal assault rifles and high powered rifles to handle Magicians.
2154
2155The ones who engaged the mobile forces were professional Magicians employed by the Magic Association.
2156
2157However, given the fact that the front entrance was breached, the situation was not in their favor.
2158
2159The mobile forces originally had the numerical advantage and now had anti-Magician armament, which was why several combat Magicians, who were typically a target that infantry with normal load outs could not approach, were lying wounded on the ground.
2160
2161Advancing forward, Tatsuya stopped in the shaded areas near the main entrance. Behind him, Miyuki also came to a halt. Yet behind them, the next two people following them were full of vigor and about to charge forward.
2162
2163“Halt! Those are high powered bullets used against Magicians!”
2164
2165He shouted at Erika as she was about to pass by him,
2166
2167“Oof!”
2168
2169And forcibly dragged Leo back by the collar.
2170
2171“……How merciless, Tatsuya.”
2172
2173“But thanks to you, I’m still breathing.”
2174
2175A beat later, the other four people arrived. Mikihiko seemed appreciative of Tatsuya’s violent gesture and even a little envious while Shizuku replied in her usual bland tone. Tatsuya was quite thankful for his friends that remained calm even under these conditions, but before a wry smile made its way across his face, he turned his eyes towards his sister.
2176
2177“Miyuki, silence the guns.”
2178
2179Hearing Tatsuya’s words, all of his friends revealed a “Hm?” expression of shock.
2180
2181“As you command. But Onii-sama, in order to handle so many people……”
2182
2183For some reason, Miyuki’s reply contained a degree of embarrassment that was utterly alien to this situation.
2184
2185Exactly what was the cause of her embarrassment, this new enigma caused everyone to tilt their heads.
2186
2187“I understand.”
2188
2189Tatsuya’s next gesture immediately solved this riddle.
2190
2191Miyuki gently wrapped her right-hand fingers around Tatsuya’s outstretched left hand.
2192
2193No matter what angle one looked it, that embarrassed expression should not be something a sister wore when facing her brother.
2194
2195But before anyone could raise the question, Miyuki’s expression turned solemn, an expression befitting a Magician.
2196
2197Her left hand moved in a natural manner difficult to detect and gripped the CAD.
2198
2199Tatsuya slowly raised his right hand parallel to the ground and pointed to the mobile forces from his hiding spot.
2200
2201The next instant, Miyuki’s magic activated.
2202
2203
2204
2205
2206
2207It was a magic that could freeze fire.
2208
2209Oscillation Speed-Type Wide Area Magic “Freeze Flame”.
2210
2211
2212
2213
2214
2215“Freeze Flame” was a wide area conceptual magic that prevented anything from burning.
2216
2217This magic could suppress the temperature of targets within a certain threshold.
2218
2219At the end of the day, firearms rely on gunpowder — in other words, burning gunpowder to create the force necessary to propel the bullet. The detonation that ignited the gunpowder was also a type of burning. Generally, the concept was that burning a target would raise the temperature, but if the flammable object could be prevented from heating up, then ignition would become impossible. Thus, firearms that have been subjected to “Freeze Flame”, regardless of whether they were guns or cannons would be silenced so long as they relied on gunpowder or explosives.
2220
2221There were roughly 30 men left in the guerrilla unit.
2222
2223Miyuki’s upper limit for mass targeting was approximately 16.
2224
2225She set 30 odd assault rifles as the target for two volleys of “Freeze Flame”.
2226
2227Before ascertaining the result, Tatsuya had already charged from where he hid behind the doorway.
2228
2229In a flash, he was already in the mobile forces’ formation and waving both hands with a magic edge.
2230
2231The terrifying image of someone chopping through human flesh with their bare hands was all the more shocking because the magic being used remained a mystery. Thus, in comparison to their allies being shot, this scene terrorized the enemy even more.
2232
2233Despite their difficult situation owing to the inoperable rifles, the mobile forces initially still acted decisively and drew blades to engage, but their morale was completely crushed by the time the fifth person had been cut down.
2234
2235They watched Tatsuya with the same eyes they would use on a monster.
2236
2237He rejected long range magic attacks and intentionally opted for close quarters combat magic with its degree of risk not only to avoid letting his friends discover the truth behind his magic, but also to sow panic among his enemies.
2238
2239Being seen as the devil incarnate was precisely what Tatsuya wanted.
2240
2241On the flank of the irregular force whose morale was in tatters, a silver wind flew across with a speed that the eye could barely follow.
2242
2243Everywhere the wind passed over, blood and flesh flew as an enemy trooper died on the spot.
2244
2245The kodachi, nay, based on its length the weapon should be a wakizashi.
2246
2247The true image of the chilling silver wind was this short sword.
2248
2249Swapping her usual Weaponized Integrated CAD in the shape of a police baton for a wakizashi without the guard, Erika activated personal Speed-Type Magic and took aim at the mobile force’s jugular.
2250
2251She, like Tatsuya, was not someone who hesitated when taking the life of an enemy. For her, this wasn’t the first time. And besides that, someone like her who wielded a weapon designed to take life and trained in techniques to do so, she knew the dangers brought on by hesitation. Under the condition that the enemy seeks your life, any hesitation towards returning the favor in kind would be arrogant and foolish in the extreme. Erika was an ardent believer in this.
2252
2253Mikihiko also shared similar sentiments. Nurtured in a family whose values system over the generations considered magic to be a weapon, he had no delusions about the original purpose and usage of magic.
2254
2255“Tatsuya, Erika!”
2256
2257Hearing Mikihiko’s voice from behind, both of them quickly sprang aside.
2258
2259What came from behind was the true wind.
2260
2261Sharp razor winds mercilessly tore through and eviscerated the soldiers’ skin.
2262
2263
2264
2265
2266
2267After leaving the remnants of the enemy for the Magicians on duty to handle, Tatsuya and Erika returned to their companions for now.
2268
2269“There was no opportunity to do anything……”
2270
2271Tatsuya patted the gloomy Leo on the back in encouragement (to which Leo sullenly crouched), raised a thumbs up at Mikihiko before smiling slightly towards Honoka and Mizuki, who were plainly trying to resist their urge to retch and whose eyes bore traces of fear.
2272
2273“My apologies. This may be a little too extreme for you guys, Honoka.”
2274
2275“—No, it’s OK.”
2276
2277Honoka firmly nodded her head, which was probably her affection at work.
2278
2279Regardless of the reason, keeping her composure deserved top marks.
2280
2281Fear or avoidance could wait until they have extricated themselves from this situation, those were Tatsuya’s true feelings.
2282
2283“Mizuki?”
2284
2285“Ah…… I’m fine as well.”
2286
2287Miyuki’s soft question caused Mizuki’s originally stiff expression to break into a smile. She was a smart girl. She fully understood that this wasn’t a normal situation.
2288
2289“Speaking of which, Erika, how did you bring that kind of weapon here? I don’t think that length can fit in a bag, can it?”
2290
2291Nonetheless, scenes of death were not something that a person could immediately adjust to and the subsequent shock would not fade immediately.
2292
2293He intentionally changed the topic to an unimportant one to give the two of them time to settle down.
2294
2295“Hm, I don’t think that’s enough?”
2296
2297Afterwards, using a more amicable tone than usual to reply, Erika also seemed to have caught on to Tatsuya’s intentions.
2298
2299“And how about this……?”
2300
2301“Ho, seriously……”
2302
2303The expressive sigh that sprouted from Tatsuya’s lips was no act.
2304
2305Somewhere along the way, Honoka and Mizuki had their eyes drawn there, and even Miyuki, Shizuku, and Mikihiko widened their eyes.
2306
2307Still, there was a little mechanism worthy of such astonishment.
2308
2309Erika pressed the power button on the hilt and the thin, razor sharp blade shrank into a round baton.
2310
2311“Cool, eh? This is the memory blade that the police plan to put into the field starting next year.”
2312
2313“Now that you mention it, the Chiba Family also makes close combat weapons……”
2314
2315“Strictly speaking, that’s the chief source of income.”
2316
2317Although this wasn’t a hilarious exchange, their light and swift interchange was sufficient to allow Mizuki and the others to recover themselves.
2318
2319“……So, what’s the next step?”
2320
2321Leo had also learned to read the mood.
2322
2323They weren’t going to make it, he hinted with his words as he asked Tatsuya for further instructions.
2324
2325“We require additional information. Erika said there appears to be a major incident in process that far surpasses our expectations. Aimless action may be like sinking into the quagmire.”
2326
2327—They needed to obtain necessary intel from the Magic Association.
2328
2329The main and side branches for the Magic Association had secret lines reserved for the Ten Master Clans and Tatsuya held the authority to directly access the Yotsuba Family line. Once linked to that line, even top secret information from Joint Chiefs was at his disposal.
2330
2331If Tatsuya was alone, he would be able to reach the Kantou branch of the Magic Association in the Bay Hills Tower in approximately ten minutes despite the fighting in the streets. He wasn’t engaged in high speed running exercises every morning for nothing.
2332
2333However, Miyuki would be unable to keep up with Tatsuya’s pace without roller skates or Flying-Type Magic. Leo, Erika, and Mikihiko might be capable, but one look at Honoka, Shizuku, and Mizuki told him that this was beyond them.
2334
2335“How about the VIP conference room?”
2336
2337As Tatsuya subconsciously creased his eyebrows, Shizuku made this proposal as she pointed at the building they just exited.
2338
2339“The VIP conference room?”
2340
2341Tatsuya didn’t know of such a facility. He knew of the VIP waiting room, but this shouldn’t be a slip of words. Also, the room Tatsuya had in mind was a mere waiting room and only possessed a standard phone line.
2342
2343“Yeah. That’s the room reserved for cabinet members and financial group leaders, so a lot of information can be accessed there.”
2344
2345“There’s actually such a room?”
2346
2347“That’s because this conference room isn’t open to the public.”
2348
2349“……It’s amazing that you would know about it.”
2350
2351Erika’s comment was wholly admiration, to which Shizuku bashfully replied with a hint of delight.
2352
2353“I know the ID key and access codes as well.”
2354
2355“Incredible……”
2356
2357“Uncle really spoils Shizuku.”
2358
2359Honoka’s interjection caused Tatsuya to nod his head as if to say “that makes sense”. That particular father would definitely do that.
2360
2361Given that this is a room for “Kitayama Ushio”, they would definitely be able to tap into the police and coast guard’s communications.
2362
2363“Shizuku, please lead the way.”
2364
2365Hearing Tatsuya’s words, Shizuku nodded vigorously, which for her was a rarely seen overreaction.
2366
2367
2368
2369
2370
2371After using Shizuku’s access code to enter the VIP conference room and examining the police map data on the monitors, they found that the entire shore was flagged as red and dangerous. In addition, the red danger zones were rapidly expanding in land.
2372
2373The enemy’s numbers remained unknown. Still, based on their invading pace, they had undoubtedly invested a significant amount of troops. There were several hundred at the bare minimum, Tatsuya estimated, probably company strength around 600 to 800 men. The situation was deteriorating far beyond initial estimations, causing Tatsuya to crease his brows again.
2374
2375“What the heck is this!”
2376
2377“That’s going too far.”
2378
2379“So many people…… How did this happen?”
2380
2381Owing to his friends’ exaggerated reactions, his dark visage did not attract any attention.
2382
2383“Onii-sama……”
2384
2385Although he wasn’t conspicuous, there was no way Miyuki would remain oblivious. His mental waves would directly cause his sister to waver because their hearts were connected as one.
2386
2387Repeatedly caressing his sister’s head as her eyes shimmered with unease, Tatsuya turned to his friends.
2388
2389“I think everyone understands the situation without going into the details and the situation is dire. If we waste too much time here, we will be captured before the JSDF arrives. That being said, escape will not be an easy prospect. At least going by land won’t be with all traffic systems offline.”
2390
2391“In other words, we go by sea?”
2392
2393Tatsuya shook his head at Leo’s question.
2394
2395“That would be a slim hope. The mobilized ships are likely unable to accommodate all the evacuees.”
2396
2397“So we head to the shelter?”
2398
2399Tatsuya nodded at Mikihiko’s proposal, but he didn’t appear to be very confident.
2400
2401“That’s probably more practical…… The infrastructure is fairly sturdy, but that won’t help if the building itself is destroyed.”
2402
2403
2404
2405
2406
2407“So, let’s take the underground tunnel.”
2408
2409Although Erika urged him onward as if she wanted to rush out the door, Tatsuya replied back with “please wait”.
2410
2411“No, don’t go underground. Go above.”
2412
2413“Eh, why? ……Ah, that’s why.”
2414
2415Seeing Erika comprehend the reason why before any explanation was necessary, Tatsuya couldn’t help but think “As expected of a famous family skilled in combat magic”.
2416
2417Still, his “please wait” referred to more than that.
2418
2419“Also, can you give me a little time?”
2420
2421“That’s not a problem…… But what for?”
2422
2423Seeing Tatsuya ask for further delay despite knowing better than anyone that every second was precious, Honoka tilted her head and asked for the reason. While this question was built on the prerequisite that “Yes” was the answer, this was her way of expressing her emotions to Tatsuya.
2424
2425“I want to delete the data on the demonstration devices.”
2426
2427“Ah, yes. That might also be one of the enemy’s goals.”
2428
2429Everyone nodded at Mikihiko’s added note.
2430
2431
2432
2433
2434
2435“Shiba, Yoshida.”
2436
2437Tatsuya and Mikihiko led the group along the way from the elevator to the back stage and were called to a stop by a heavy voice that came from the abdomen.
2438
2439Tatsuya and Mikihiko only knew one person who could speak with such a vigorous voice.
2440
2441“Juumonji-senpai.”
2442
2443Turning their heads, they found Juumonji Katsuto advancing with Hattori and Sawaki following him. All three wore Kevlar with light bulletproof plates. The fact that Katsuto, with his powerful magic barrier ability, was wearing personal body armor was sufficient to drive home how dire the situation was.
2444
2445“Everyone else is together. Did you guys not evacuate in time?”
2446
2447In other words, they should “quickly evacuate”.
2448
2449“Just in case, we are going to delete the data on the demonstration devices to prevent theft. In regards to everyone else, I think moving as one group is preferable to splitting up.”
2450
2451In order to hide the fact that they literally hacked into a secret conference room, Tatsuya hesitated briefly over how to explain his companions before going with that white lie. (The first half was true.)
2452
2453“But the other students have already gone into the underground tunnel.”
2454
2455That was Hattori’s comment.
2456
2457“What’s wrong with the underground tunnel?”
2458
2459Deftly noting the subtle change when Tatsuya creased his eyebrows, Sawaki immediately asked.
2460
2461“I can’t say that it’s wrong…… But the underground tunnel doesn’t lead directly to the shelter so there is a possibility they will run into other organizations. Possibly.”
2462
2463“You mean there’s a chance they will walk into a fight!?”
2464
2465Before Tatsuya could finish, Hattori immediately exploded with a question. No, although phrased as a question, in reality he already reached an answer.
2466
2467“Freedom of movement will be restricted in the underground tunnel. Unable to hide or flee, the chance of being forced into a head-on confrontation definitely exists. Thus I opted to advance above ground.”
2468
2469Katsuto’s decision was swift.
2470
2471“Hattori, Sawaki, go after Nakajou now.”
2472
2473“Yes.”
2474
2475“Got it.”
2476
2477Seeing the two of them sprint off, Katsuto glanced at Tatsuya. There was a hint of a reprimand in that look.
2478
2479“Shiba, when compared to your cunning, it appears that your actions are a little too cautious.”
2480
2481Of course, Tatsuya got the drift of what Katsuto was driving at. Still, he didn’t just frankly accept it either. At any rate, he made no rebuttal.
2482
2483“No need to say anything else. Let’s move.”
2484
2485“Understood.”
2486
2487This time, Katsuto was following Tatsuya.
2488
2489Acknowledging the need in Tatsuya’s aim, Katsuto chose to assist in this endeavour. This was something Tatsuya comprehended without a word being spoken.
2490
2491
2492
2493
2494
2495“What are you people doing!?”
2496
2497Returning to the backstage with the demonstration devices, Tatsuya’s opening comment completely set himself aside. Here, not only Suzune and Isori failed to evacuate and were crowded around the device, but there was also Mayumi, Mari, Kanon, Kirihara, and Sayaka nearby standing on guard.
2498
2499“Data deletion.”
2500
2501What they were doing was plainly obvious. The real question Tatsuya wanted to ask was “why are you still here”. Tatsuya had no response for Suzune’s literal answer.
2502
2503“Saegusa, you guys didn’t evacuate?”
2504
2505“Rin-chan and Isori-kun are both doing their best, how can we just leave them and flee first?”
2506
2507Katsuto verbalized Tatsuya’s thoughts but was also rendered speechless by that perfectly natural response.
2508
2509“We’ll handle this one. We’ll leave the one in the resting area to you, Shiba-kun.”
2510
2511“If you can, please destroy the models left behind by the other schools as well.”
2512
2513“After finishing here we’ll also head for the resting area. We’ll decide our next step there.”
2514
2515After receiving Isori, Kanon, and Mari’s request (order?), Tatsuya and Katsuto turned around.
2516
2517
2518
2519
2520
2521By the time Tatsuya finished combing the resting areas of the other schools with Miyuki accompanying him and returned (he didn’t bring anyone else because he didn’t want other people to see him decompose the data specifics, leaving behind an empty storage device), Suzune and the others had finished their work in the backstage and have already returned to the resting area.
2522
2523“Welcome back. That was fast.”
2524
2525“And the result?”
2526
2527“All data on the remaining devices has been destroyed.”
2528
2529In regards to the question from the engaged couple, Isori and Kanon, Tatsuya replied in this manner.
2530
2531“Eh…… How did you do that?”
2532
2533Though this was the expected result, astonishment was unavoidable. Seeing Kanon wear this expression as she pressed her next question, Tatsuya replied simply.
2534
2535“That’s a secret.”
2536
2537“Kanon, you cannot inquire about other Magicians’ spell work. That is against the rules, remember?”
2538
2539The one who spoke up was none other than Isori.
2540
2541Kanon was plainly unwilling to drop the issue, but still obediently backed down.
2542
2543“So, now we have to decide what to do next.”
2544
2545After saying this, Mari looked towards Mayumi.
2546
2547“There is only one hostile vessel invading the harbor. Currently, no other enemy vessels have been discovered in Tokyo Bay. Although the enemy numbers on land have yet to be identified, the enemy has a stranglehold on the entire shoreline. Land-based communications are practically completely disabled, another thing we have to thank the mobile forces for.”
2548
2549“What is their goal?”
2550
2551Mayumi and Mari exchanged a glance at Isori’s question.
2552
2553“Right now, we can only guess……”
2554
2555Mayumi was the one who answered.
2556
2557“By targeting Yokohama for their attack, they must be aiming for the sole possible target in Yokohama. Strictly speaking, Kyoto is the same.”
2558
2559“The side branch of the Magic Association.”
2560
2561Kanon interjected before she could finish.
2562
2563“To be precise, the target is the main Magic Association database. Since all major data is compiled in Kyoto and Yokohama, we also have to take into consideration that many specialists and scholars are gathered here for the Thesis Competition.”
2564
2565Mayumi chuckled wryly at Kanon’s anxious attitude and added a few pointers of her own.
2566
2567“When does the rescue ship arrive?”
2568
2569In response to Mari’s question or more like what she wanted to verify, Mayumi’s answer was not very positive.
2570
2571“The coast guard’s cargo ship needs another ten minutes to arrive. However, based on the number of people that gathered and need to be evacuated, the ship will not have sufficient capacity to carry them all.”
2572
2573Mayumi’s information was on par with the details that Tatsuya and company received upstairs. In other words, there would definitely be people unable to evacuate.
2574
2575“Nakajou-san and the others who headed for the shelter unfortunately made Shiba-kun’s fears a reality. They ran into mobile forces en route and have been bogged down. However, since the enemy numbers are quite few, they should be able to run them off after not too long according to Nakajou-san’s last transmission.”
2576
2577After Mayumi, Suzune continued to speak.
2578
2579“The situation is as everyone heard. While we don’t know how much room is left at the shelter, we’re going to be too late for the boat. In that case, I believe we can only head for the shelter. What does everyone else think?”
2580
2581Mayumi, Mari, Suzune.
2582
2583Isori, Kanon, Sayaka.
2584
2585Tatsuya, Miyuki, Erika, Leo, Mikihiko, Mizuki, Honoka, Shizuku.
2586
2587There were the above 14 people here.
2588
2589Katsuto had taken Kirihara, who originally stayed to protect Suzune, and went to verify if anyone else hadn’t escaped in time.
2590
2591The three Year 3 students kept their mouths shut.
2592
2593Probably because they wanted to hear their underclassmen’s thoughts.
2594
2595That being said, their thoughts were all in accord with Mari.
2596
2597“……I also agree with Mari-nee’s opinion.”
2598
2599The Year 2 students like Kanon probably thought they didn’t have any other choice.
2600
2601All the Year 1 students turned their eyes towards Tatsuya.
2602
2603With Mari’s interrogative eyes on him, his eyes…… were watching an entirely different direction.
2604
2605Faster than the eye could follow, he raised a silver CAD.
2606
2607“Onii-sama!?” “Tatsuya-kun!?”
2608
2609As if in response to Miyuki and Mayumi’s questions, Tatsuya aimed at the wall and pulled the trigger.
2610
2611
2612
2613
2614
2615Tatsuya never forgot for a single moment that there were many witnesses present.
2616
2617However, there was no time to ensure secrecy at this point.
2618
2619It was pure coincidence that he was able to notice this.
2620
2621Maybe this was the instincts that Yakumo honed in him talking. Yakumo repeatedly taught Tatsuya not to overly rely on “Elemental Sight” and that looked to pay dividends now.
2622
2623Engulfed in a powerful sense of danger, Tatsuya extended his “sight” beyond the wall to read the signal that a large physical object was barreling down on them.
2624
2625If Katsuto was present, the outcome might be different.
2626
2627If enemy soldiers rushed in, he could leave it to Mayumi or Mari.
2628
2629Time permitting, he could also let Miyuki handle it.
2630
2631Yet, in this instant, only Tatsuya’s magic was able to handle the incoming large armored truck.
2632
2633Height 4 meters, width 3 meters, total weight 30 tons.
2634
2635Enlarging the scope another level to accommodate the uniform rise of the street and placing the entire large truck with armor plating in his targeting hairs, Tatsuya activated Decomposition Magic “Mist Dispersal”.
2636
2637
2638
2639
2640
2641In a flash, the large truck faded into dust.
2642
2643
2644
2645
2646
2647The driver was ejected from the suddenly vanishing driver’s seat and rolled straight forward to collide into the wall.
2648
2649Thanks to inertia, the remnants of metallic and resin dust hitting the wall of the conference center were all that remained of that large truck’s passage.
2650
2651A few minor lacerations were found on the outside of the wall, but internally, no damage was incurred.
2652
2653Yet, the world was not so convenient that no one detected what just happened.
2654
2655“……Just now, what……?”
2656
2657Mayumi’s terrified question caused Tatsuya to want to cluck his tongue. Mayumi seemed to have noticed what just happened exactly like he worried she would.
2658
2659Along his line of sight, she must have used Sensory-Type Magic “Multi Scope” to look beyond the wall. However, fortunately — this was only deferring the question — there was no need to answer that question.
2660
2661Mayumi’s expanding vision caused her face to turn pale for another reason.
2662
2663Also expanding his sight, Tatsuya grasped the reason why.
2664
2665Looks like the people remaining in the conference hall have been identified by the enemy as dangerous personnel, Tatsuya thought.
2666
2667Since the soldiers invading the conference hall had been captured and the battle at the entrance turned into a rout, the objective shifted from capture to eradication.
2668
2669Part of his consciousness was coldly analyzing the situation as if he had no part in it while the remaining energy was channeled towards magic that could meet a rain of guided missiles.
2670
2671Nevertheless, this time there was no need for Tatsuya to do anything.
2672
2673The wall of the room they were standing in was covered by multiple layers of magic barriers.
2674
2675Before the missiles could hit the wall, sonic waves fired from the flank detonated all the missiles en route.
2676
2677“Sorry for the wait.”
2678
2679Hearing a sudden voice from the outside, both Tatsuya and Mayumi reined in their sight to the range of the naked eye.
2680
2681As if waiting for this cue — although he really wanted to believe she had better character than that — a woman entered the waiting room.
2682
2683“Eh? Eh? This can’t be. Kyouko-nee?”
2684
2685“Long time no see, Mayumi.”
2686
2687Suddenly appearing, Fujibayashi smiled and greeted Mayumi like an old friend.
2688
2689
2690
2691
2692
2693Katsuto ran into a rain of missiles because he detected the presence of powerful magic at the place.
2694
2695Magicians could detect the usage of magic based on reactions to changes in phenomena.
2696
2697Yet, this magic almost engendered no reaction whatsoever.
2698
2699Despite this, Katsuto clearly understood that the “world” underwent massive change.
2700
2701Not using the five senses to read the “meaning” was not a skill unique to Tatsuya.
2702
2703Katsuto used magic to manipulate space, so he was exceptionally sensitive to changes in spatial distribution.
2704
2705Distribution of matter was one of the core elements to basic spatial manipulation.
2706
2707Katsuto was able to use his senses and the changes in spatial distribution to grasp physical movement and changes.
2708
2709Through those senses, Katsuto detected that a massive physical object, though not as large as a building but sufficient to be gigantic by human standards, had vanished in an instant.
2710
2711Katsuto had never encountered such a change in phenomenon on such a scale with this degree of stability.
2712
2713Rather than being threatened by this feeling, curiosity prompted Katsuto to halt searching for people who hadn’t fled and leaped towards the scene where matter dissipated.
2714
2715Seeing that massive body, it was hard to imagine that he was also very adept in high speed Move-Type Magic. Leaving Kirihara behind at the original location, he slid through the sky through his leap and arrived at the outer wall of the resting area thanks to his momentum.
2716
2717Was this fortunate or unfortunate?
2718
2719For Mayumi and Mari, this was definitely fortunate.
2720
2721As to what Katsuto thought himself, there was no way to know without asking him.
2722
2723Just as he arrived Katsuto was subjected to a warm welcome from the guided missiles.
2724
2725Katsuto’s response was almost pure reflex.
2726
2727He instantaneously erected several physical barriers that were impermeable to air particles and could handle temperatures exceeding 20000 degrees.
2728
2729The shock waves from the missiles that mysteriously detonated in mid air didn’t even scratch the outer walls covered by Katsuto’s barrier.
2730
2731Katsuto looked in the direction where the shock waves that detonated the missiles came from.
2732
2733There was an army captain standing on an open top military car carrying something that looked like a missile launcher.
2734
2735“Super Sonic Launcher…… Are you from 101?”
2736
2737Katsuto called out towards the military vehicle headed his way. (Although it seemed a little odd, he was still a high school student, so he addressed the adult in a respectful tone.)
2738
2739The car must be equipped with a fusion mechanical system and slid soundlessly forward until the captain descended with a picturesque smile and saluted Katsuto.
2740
2741“JSDF 101 Independent Magic-Equipped Battalion, Captain, Sanada Shigeru. As expected of the heir of the Juumonji Family, you do know about us. Please excuse my rudeness.”
2742
2743Katsuto’s brow twitched.
2744
2745Such a simple reaction was exemplary mental fortitude for an 18 year old young man.
2746
2747“Excuse me. I think both sides have much to discuss.”
2748
2749“……I should be the one apologizing.”
2750
2751“A thousand apologies. Then, my lord heir of the Juumonji Family, let’s go inside.”
2752
2753Sanada said as he headed for the conference hall.
2754
2755Katsuto had no idea what the man needed from him, but since this soldier knew about the hidden family situation surrounding the Juumonji Family, he was not someone Katsuto could let his guard down around.
2756
2757The two men advanced one after another into the nearest entrance of the conference hall.
2758
2759
2760
2761
2762
2763Fujibayashi did not come alone.
2764
2765Behind her figure decked out in combat fatigues (she was not wearing a dress and brand name shoes but long pants and boots), another man in his prime wearing the uniform of the JSDF with a major’s pins came in.
2766
2767This major came before the bemused Tatsuya, who stood there stiffly, and came to a halt with his hands behind his back.
2768
2769“Special Lieutenant, your information classification has been temporarily disabled.”
2770
2771Standing by his side, Fujibayashi spoke to Tatsuya.
2772
2773Confusion vanished from Tatsuya’s face as he came to attention and saluted the man in front of him.
2774
2775At that pose, everyone besides Miyuki, including the recently entered Katsuto, could only gape in shock.
2776
2777The soldier returned Tatsuya’s salute, saw Katsuto’s figure, and walked towards him.
2778
2779“I am JSDF Major Kazama Harunobu. I apologize for being unable to reveal my unit.”
2780
2781Sanada already reported their unit designation earlier, so Kazama only said this because he was aware that Mayumi and Erika might hear this.
2782
2783“So you must be that Major Kazama. I am the Juumonji Family’s representative to the Master Clan Conference, Juumonji Katsuto.”
2784
2785In response to Kazama’s self introduction, Katsuto also revealed the name known throughout the world of Magicians.
2786
2787Kazama saluted and turned to place both Katsuto and Tatsuya into his line of sight.
2788
2789“Fujibayashi, please explain to everyone the current situation.”
2790
2791“Yes, sir. Currently, our forces stationed at Tsuchiya are engaging the enemy invaders. Also, we have battalions advancing from Tsurumi and Fujisawa. The Kantou branch of the Magic Association has also formed volunteers to aid in the defense.”
2792
2793“Thank you. Then, Special Lieutenant.”
2794
2795After issuing a concise thank you to Fujibayashi, Kazama called out “Special Lieutenant” as he turned to Tatsuya.
2796
2797“We have just received orders. Owing to special circumstances, our unit that was originally advancing to Tsuchiya are also to aid in the defensive effort. Under special assignment regulations of the JSDF, you are also mobilized.”
2798
2799Mayumi and Mari both opened their mouths but Kazama silenced them both with a look.
2800
2801“The JSDF requests and requires that everyone here keep the Special Lieutenant’s position confidential. This is a classified secret concerning national defense, so please understand.”
2802
2803Compared to the severe words and solemn tone, the strength of that gaze was sufficient to cause Mayumi, Mari, and Kanon to abandon all resistance.
2804
2805“Special Lieutenant, the Mobile Suit you designed has already been prepared on the trailer. Let’s hurry.”
2806
2807Tatsuya nodded at Sanada’s words and briefly turned to his friends.
2808
2809“My apologies, but it’s just as you heard. Everyone head to the shelter with the senpais.”
2810
2811“Special Lieutenant, my squad and I will provide protection for everyone here.”
2812
2813Fujibayashi added in her two cents to Tatsuya as he bowed his head to his friends.
2814
2815Although their numbers were few, Tatsuya was deeply appreciative that she was able to delegate precious assets for his friends and to the major for doing his utmost to accommodate him.
2816
2817“Thank you, Lieutenant.”
2818
2819“Understood. Do your best out there, Special Lieutenant.”
2820
2821Saluting Fujibayashi, Tatsuya followed Kazama outside.
2822
2823Setting aside the peers he apologized to, Tatsuya didn’t mention anything about the upperclassmen. Maybe it was because they could read the atmosphere or simply out of shock, but no one called out to Tatsuya regardless of whether they were his peers or upperclassmen.
2824
2825
2826
2827
2828
2829“Onii-sama, please hold.”
2830
2831However, his sister Miyuki called out to him, a myriad of emotions warring across her face.
2832
2833Reading the inquisitive look from Tatsuya, Kazama nodded and left first.
2834
2835Miyuki stood before Tatsuya and stretched her hands out towards his face.
2836
2837Her aim was not to detain him.
2838
2839Miyuki knew about his standing and duties just as well as Tatsuya himself.
2840
2841What Miyuki feared most was to get in Tatsuya’s way.
2842
2843Currently, there was an objective that Miyuki sought to accomplish.
2844
2845She did not possess the authority to do so.
2846
2847Yet Miyuki opted to bear the full responsibility on her own discretion. She already made up her mind to remove her brother’s shackles.
2848
2849Tatsuya read that determination from his sister’s eyes.
2850
2851Greeting his sister’s upraised gaze, Tatsuya’s expression was bewildered, understanding and grateful as he nodded before falling to one knee before Miyuki. —Just as a knight bows before his princess.
2852
2853Miyuki held that face in both hands and lifted her brother’s face, whose eyes were closed, towards herself.
2854
2855
2856
2857
2858
2859Miyuki bent at the waist.
2860
2861
2862
2863
2864
2865And bestowed upon her brother’s forehead,
2866
2867A deep kiss.
2868
2869After his sister’s lips departed, the hands pressed against his face fell away and Tatsuya bowed his head once more.
2870
2871Transformation descended immediately.
2872
2873
2874
2875
2876
2877A violent array of photons, enough to sear the eyes, burst from Tatsuya’s body.
2878
2879These were no photons, but psions wrapped in physical light.
2880
2881Tatsuya opened his eyes and rose to his feet.
2882
2883Staggeringly active psions coursed around him.
2884
2885The conqueror has come, armored by the storms and commanding lightning.
2886
2887Although that violent array of light retracted, the voluminous psions still swirled calmly around him.
2888
2889Anyone would have lurched one or two steps away from Tatsuya, but Miyuki only smiled benignly, lifted her dress and dropped into a deep curtsey.
2890
2891“May you conquer all before you.”
2892
2893“I’m off.”
2894
2895With his sister’s emotional eyes watching him, Tatsuya stepped onto the Yokohama streets that had been transformed into a battlefield and went off to war.
2896
2897
2898
2899
2900
2901Chapter 11
2902
2903
2904
2905
2906The conflict between the group of First High students and faculty (including outside personnel) that headed for the shelter via the underground tunnel and the armed guerrillas in the tunnel drew to a close.
2907
2908The number of evacuees totaled nearly 60 people.
2909
2910Since that attack came after First High’s presentation came to an end, the number of students who came to show their support had reached a peak.
2911
2912Azusa mentally lamented this unfortunate turn of events, but as the Student Council President, she had to put on a brave front no matter what happened.
2913
2914Ahead of them was the sound of gunfire and shock waves.
2915
2916That was the sound of Sawaki taking down the enemy guerrilla armed with guns at the forefront.
2917
2918Under everyone’s combined efforts, the primary weapons such as assault rifles and semi-automatics had been successfully nullified.
2919
2920Azusa also used magic to solidify the air in the muzzle to cause an explosion that took out two guns and their respective users.
2921
2922The result lay before her eyes.
2923
2924Despite being a tunnel, this wasn’t a hole excavated in the previous century. There were plenty of lights illuminating the way.
2925
2926Along the bloodsoaked underground passage, several irregulars lay on the ground.
2927
2928Normally, she would try to avoid looking at this tragic sight. However, out of duty as the student representative, Azusa forcibly stifled her terror.
2929
2930She had no experience in magic combat skills or tactical squad command.
2931
2932Even if she didn’t say anything, the security personnel selected from the Club Activities Group and Public Moral Committee wouldn’t allow any guerrilla to approach their group.
2933
2934Azusa fought down the bile rising in her throat and beheld Hattori and Sawaki arriving to rout the guerrillas. All she could do was watch them with her eyes, such was her duty.
2935
2936Likely because of the sparse number of enemies, there were fortunately no fatalities on their side.
2937
2938However, Magicians were not immortal.
2939
2940They will bleed if cut, die if shot.
2941
2942Magic defenses were not omnipotent either. If the bullet’s kinetic energy surpassed magic’s ability to alter the Eidos, then the magic barrier would be penetrated.
2943
2944They endured that sort of risk to serve as our living shields. She believed that to turn her eyes away from these comrades who protected individuals like herself who were inept in combat would be a betrayal of the highest order.
2945
2946Azusa carefully scrutinized Sawaki as he used his fists and feet to take down the guerrillas that swarmed from all directions as well as Hattori who stood behind him to provide covering fire with magic.
2947
2948
2949
2950
2951
2952The guerrillas who burst out from cover were also crushed by Sawaki effortlessly.
2953
2954Their opponents were irregulars of East-Asian descent, so there was no way to immediately tell them apart from normal civilians.
2955
2956Anyone holding a large weapon like an assault rifle could immediately be identified as hostile, but guerrillas that stalked forward with hidden combat knives or combat knives were hard to differentiate from the average civilian. Hence Sawaki abandoned any and all attempts at telling them apart.
2957
2958He fortified his defenses and struck down anyone who raised a hand at him.
2959
2960He was only able to rely on this rough strategy because of the superlative sturdiness of his defenses.
2961
2962Convergence Move-Type Combination Magic “Air Armor”.
2963
2964Setting the first 3-5 centimeters of air around his body as the target, he rendered the surface of his skin to be smoother and lowered the angle of physical penetration so he could avoid high speed bullets with low mass.
2965
2966This was not solely magic or physical skills, but a combination of the two which produced the speed and technique necessary to carry out this practically suicidal strategy.
2967
2968A newly appeared enemy swung a broadsword at him.
2969
2970Repeatedly activating magic, Sawaki cast personal acceleration magic on himself.
2971
2972The speed of his fists approached sonic speed.
2973
2974Surrounded by compressed air, his fist broke the sound barrier.
2975
2976With a boom, the guerrilla went flying.
2977
2978This sort of overkill successfully impeded fresh enemies.
2979
2980Earlier, repeated threats appeared to serve no effect.
2981
2982Still, just as physical stamina is limited, human inner strength is also limited. Sawaki’s blow caused the soldier to collide with the irregular behind him, forcing both of them to collide solidly with the wall and slide to the ground. Seeing this, the guerrillas’ morale finally started to crumble.
2983
2984As Sawaki disengaged the magic armor, his ill-natured classmate was hurtling steam blocks charged with electricity at the fleeing enemy presence.
2985
2986
2987
2988
2989
2990Fujibayashi’s squad had two all-terrain vehicles and there were eight people including Fujibayashi. Although the unit was small enough to barely rate as a squad, every member looked highly competent.
2991
2992“Mayumi, I’m sorry to say…… That I cannot accommodate everyone on board.”
2993
2994With an apologetic expression, Fujibayashi informed Mayumi, who appeared to be awed by each soldier’s battle hardened aura.
2995
2996“Ah, no, we originally decided to evacuate on foot……”
2997
2998“Is that right. But wouldn’t that be too far, and where do you plan to evacuate towards?”
2999
3000She was speaking to Mayumi and not Katsuto because they were old acquaintances, but Mayumi earnestly wished that she was discussing this with Katsuto. Under these conditions, Katsuto undoubtedly would field the questions better than she would.
3001
3002“The unit from Tsuchiya is using Nogeyama as a base and are engaged in sweeping for guerrillas in squads.
3003
3004We still cannot ascertain what the camouflaged vessel in the hillside docks is up to, but they’ll probably unload mechanized forces soon. This way, the shoreline will turn into the center of the battlefield, so I recommend that you evacuate inland.”
3005
3006“Then…… As we planned, I think the shelter near the station will probably be better.”
3007
3008Mayumi said in slight bewilderment as she glanced at Katsuto.
3009
3010“Agreed. That would be preferable.”
3011
3012Seeing Katsuto nod in assent, Mayumi let out a relieved expression.
3013
3014At this, Fujibayashi smiled with slight interest, but this action went undetected, even by Mayumi.
3015
3016“Then we will provide cover with the car in front, so just follow along at your own pace.”
3017
3018After saying this, Fujibayashi approached one of the vehicles with Mayumi and Mari right behind her.
3019
3020“Lieutenant Fujibayashi.”
3021
3022However, Katsuto didn’t move and called out to Fujibayashi from behind.
3023
3024“What is it?”
3025
3026Fujibayashi didn’t delay and immediately turned around.
3027
3028As if she expected to be called on to stop.
3029
3030“I know this is a rather willful request, but can you lend me a car?”
3031
3032That’s insane, all the students from First High thought when they heard this. There were only two cars. Also, the cars were not only for carrying people but also for storing ammunition as well.
3033
3034“Where do you want to go?”
3035
3036This was not the time to allow independent action. Still, Fujibayashi did not immediately reject Katsuto’s request and asked him the reason for this course of action.
3037
3038“To the side branch of the Magic Association. Although I’m only a surrogate, I am still a representative of the Master Clans Conference and must fulfill my responsibilities as a member of the Magic Association.”
3039
3040That was a voice from the depths of his abdomen. Unlike the shallow youngsters with heroic fantasies, his voice was the voice of someone who was resolved to carry his burdens.
3041
3042“Understood.”
3043
3044Fujibayashi replied frankly.
3045
3046“Sergeant Tateoka, Corporal Otowa. Escort Juumonji to the Kantou branch of the Magic Association.”
3047
3048With no regard to Katsuto’s bewilderment, she gave orders to two subordinates and lent him a car. Next, she raised her voice towards Mayumi and company as they stood next to the other vehicle.
3049
3050“Quick, get on board. We can’t let you guys waste any more time.”
3051
3052
3053
3054
3055
3056The representatives and supporters from Third High elected to use the bus that carried them here for evacuation.
3057
3058“Why is it so far……”
3059
3060“That’s just how the street is designed; what can you do?”
3061
3062The bus was waiting in a parking garage reserved for large vehicles that was far from the conference hall. Hearing Masaki’s complaints, Kichijouji seriously scolded him.
3063
3064The very fact that they decided not to stay the night and arranged for the driver to wait on station ahead of time was worthy of cheer.
3065
3066In terms of distance it was slightly closer than heading for the docks where the evacuation ship was, so Kichijouji felt that complaining about this sort of thing would invite divine retribution.
3067
3068What was concerning was that the southern side of the parking garage was significantly closer to the docks where the camouflaged enemy vessel was moored. However, the militant students of Third High encouraged one another with ideas of “sticking it to the treacherous invaders” as they advanced.
3069
3070Apparently, they were enraged that they had been forced to disarm earlier on stage.
3071
3072This overly optimistic cheer only served to deepen Kichijouji’s unease.
3073
3074Although they were known as the militant Third High, the only ones with real combat experience were a handful of students with Masaki at the head.
3075
3076He himself had no “real combat” experience, and the faculty leading this team all specialized in research.
3077
3078In this world, if something could go wrong, it would.
3079
3080In the middle of the previous century, a certain man coined this rather unpleasant law which Kichijouji felt applied to this situation (in reality, the law became mainstream in the latter half of the century).
3081
3082Just as they entered the parking garage and the large bus came into view.
3083
3084—The bus suffered several direct hits from rocket launchers.
3085
3086Fortunately, the point of impact — maybe the sole blessing in disguise — was near the rear of the vehicle, so the driver was able to frantically escape before being caught in the explosion.
3087
3088The body of the vehicle was covered with the same heat and shock resistant plating used to coat military vehicles, so while the windows were cracked and several areas were burnt, the body itself was not compromised.
3089
3090Except the tires, which were completely shredded.
3091
3092“Those assholes!”
3093
3094Next to Kichijouji, Masaki was furious.
3095
3096In order to quickly get him to calm down, Kichijouji switched gears.
3097
3098If they were to change tires, they couldn’t allow the enemy to close in during this time.
3099
3100He decided to let his good friend vent a little.
3101
3102Kichijouji left Masaki’s side and moved towards the teacher leading this group.
3103
3104“Sensei.”
3105
3106“Kichijouji, what is it?”
3107
3108With that slightly shaking voice, it was quite impressive that the man managed to steady himself.
3109
3110If he wasn’t assured of his friend’s overwhelming might, he too might be in the same condition.
3111
3112“Leave the enemy to Masaki; let’s prepare to change the tires.”
3113
3114“But, even if you say prepare……”
3115
3116“This is a designated parking garage for large vehicles and specialized cars. I believe there should be tools for simple maintenance and spare tires as well.”
3117
3118“Y-You’re right! OK, everyone with nothing to do help Kichijouji search for spare tires!”
3119
3120Having everyone with nothing to do join in was because there were other people who could engage the enemy besides Masaki.
3121
3122Unrelated to his identity as a Year 1 student, Kichijouji naturally controlled the initiative here given his status as the calmest individual present. The students from Third High, regardless of whether they were classmates or upperclassmen, moved together with the teachers along Kichijouji’s instructions to prepare for evacuation.
3123
3124
3125
3126
3127
3128The group led by Azusa (which was a slightly inaccurate description) that included students from First High, faculty, and other associated individuals, reached the underground shelter slightly later than the other schools.
3129
3130The reason for their tardiness was because they had more people to account for.
3131
3132They had over 60 people. Normally, this wasn’t a large number. Yet trying to bring everyone to a certain location without misplacing a single one required a lot of effort, and coupled with the fact they had to fend off hostile attacks along the way, their superior numbers were both an advantage and a disadvantage.
3133
3134The main entrance that allowed access to the outside during crises had been closed out of consideration of the enemy’s presence.
3135
3136The lock must be disengaged by the evacuees already in the shelter’s interior.
3137
3138While the door was being opened, Hattori and Sawaki were checking for stragglers in the plaza (the underground area was constructed as a plaza) before the front entrance.
3139
3140The faculty were also fulfilling their duties as adults. Asuka was examining the injured, Haruka was comforting the uneasy students, while Tsudzura was at the rear with Tomitsuka on guard.
3141
3142Thus, maybe this was the reason — why Tsudzura discovered the abnormality first.
3143
3144“Everyone, get down and cover your head!”
3145
3146There was an odd noise coming from the ceiling of the underground passage.
3147
3148The concrete creaked and groaned.
3149
3150The overhanging lights went out, plunging the tunnel into darkness.
3151
3152Cracks appeared all over the ceiling and walls.
3153
3154All of this happened in an instant.
3155
3156There were some who screamed in fright.
3157
3158There were others who just ducked and sought cover.
3159
3160Still others attempted to hold off the falling metal, concrete and dust with magic.
3161
3162Nonetheless, no matter what power caused this, the tunnel’s collapse appeared unavoidable.
3163
3164
3165
3166
3167
3168At this time, Azusa was using the terminal responsible for communicating with the people in the shelter to ask them to hurry up and open the door.
3169
3170Hearing Tsudzura’s warning, she couldn’t help but turn her head, and now she couldn’t tear her eyes away from the tragedy unfolding before her.
3171
3172There wasn’t even time to close her eyes as the ceiling buckled and the walls started peeling off.
3173
3174She didn’t have to worry about being caught in the cave-in.
3175
3176Even though she was standing outside the door, the shelter’s entrance was covered in reinforced metal alloy.
3177
3178But the other students were……
3179
3180“……Eh?”
3181
3182However, after the dust settled, she used the remaining lights from the air raid shelter passage to survey the wreckage of the tunnel, but her eyes were not filled to the brim with painful tears. Instead, a shocked voice erupted due to this unexpected scenery.
3183
3184None of the First High students were buried alive.
3185
3186The concrete scraps were formed into a dome-like shape.
3187
3188What sort of pure coincidence could enable large concrete blocks to perfectly lock together to form a dome shape that held enough room beneath for half a person’s height?
3189
3190No, this cannot be pure coincidence……
3191
3192The probability that this was a naturally occurring phenomenon was practically zero.
3193
3194(……I see, this is Polyhedra Handle! That’s Tsudzura-sensei’s magic!)
3195
3196The “Polyhedra Handle” she was mentally calling out did not refer to the command used to describe 3-D projections, but magic that broke up physical objects into pyramids and quadratic prisms and manipulated them to form these simple projections to form large scale construct variations.
3197
3198Modern magic did not excel in manipulating one aspect of an object. In order to halt the underground passage from caving in, the typical approach was to set the entire underground passage as the target.
3199
3200On the other hand, Polyhedra Handle split one object into multiple components and sought to alter one component in order to affect the entire whole.
3201
3202Of course, this required the ability to separate one object into multiple tiny pieces. Magicians capable of doing so could consciously create miracles when it would be impossible otherwise. —Just like now.
3203
3204Likely understanding that the underground tunnel was unable to support the weight above and collapse was imminent, Tsudzura used the sand’s pressure to form a dome and controlled the impact of the falling rubble.
3205
3206Nevertheless, at the end of the day this was only a temporary measure formed of concrete and did not possess the sturdiness of natural stone.
3207
3208“Everyone, get over here quickly!”
3209
3210Azusa desperately cried out to the students, faculty, and third party individuals still sprawled on the floor and urged them to quickly flee through the shelter’s opened doors.
3211
3212
3213
3214
3215
3216Asuka had left to care for the wounded, so Hirakawa was left all by herself in the 60 man group and she could only hunker down without even making a peep.
3217
3218True, the ceiling did collapse. The walls should have fallen. If that was the case, why wasn’t she buried alive?
3219
3220Slowly opening her eyes in trepidation, Hirakawa was shocked out of her senses by the scene before her.
3221
3222Steel and concrete mixed together like toys to form a dome with a small opening. This impossible coincidence caused Hirakawa to stare blankly.
3223
3224But, just then,
3225
3226“What are you staring at!? Get moving!”
3227
3228Amid the scolding, someone grabbed her hand.
3229
3230She gave a start out of panic and tried to fling away that hand on reflex.
3231
3232However, that hand gave Hirakawa a feeling of warmth without pain and contained a strength that refused to relinquish the grip on her hand.
3233
3234“Come on!”
3235
3236Without minding her reflexive rejection, that hand pulled her onward.
3237
3238Behind them, there were no human sounds or presence. While she was staring blankly, she had become the only one left behind.
3239
3240Ahead, a weak light shone the way forward, probably caused by people who had already fled the debris and turned a flashlight back this way.
3241
3242At this point, Hirakawa’s brain wasn’t even functioning. She was only being led by her hand and running as fast as she could despite her bent posture.
3243
3244The light at the end of the tunnel continued to grow stronger until they could finally see the exit.
3245
3246An unspecified sound reached her ear.
3247
3248Part of the debris was unable to sustain the weight and was beginning to collapse.
3249
3250The catastrophe played out in slow motion before her eyes.
3251
3252The young man pulling Hirakawa tugged that hand clasping Hirakawa into his bosom while using his empty right hand to pat the right side of her waist. Suddenly, Hirakawa noticed that her body was being pulled along with the charge.
3253
3254In front of the hand holding her tight, Hirakawa subconsciously clung onto the chest in front of her.
3255
3256By the time Hirakawa realized that this was the inertia caused by emergency acceleration, they had already escaped the falling debris into the shelter’s passageway.
3257
3258
3259
3260
3261
3262Seeing Tomitsuka successfully rescue the young girl who hadn’t fled in time, Azusa finally let out a sigh of relief.
3263
3264Yet, upon seeing the young girl’s face, her recently settled heart suddenly pounded furiously again.
3265
3266(Hirakawa-senpai’s younger sister……)
3267
3268As a member of the Technician Team for the Nine Schools Competition, Azusa enjoyed a close relationship with Hirakawa Koharu.
3269
3270The cultured and refined older Hirakawa was an upperclassman whom Azusa got along well with, and at the same time, she was a senpai who excelled in the same technical field.
3271
3272When Azusa first heard that her sister attempted to sabotage the representative team’s work, Azusa initially suspected that she had misheard it.
3273
3274She had never met the younger sister directly, but based on the understanding reached from casual conversation, Azusa didn’t believe she was the sort of girl to do such a thing. Hence she was hit doubly hard by this.
3275
3276Seeing her frantically separate herself from the young man who carried her in his embrace and dropping her head in shame while sneaking a peek at the young man, she looked like any other ordinary underclassman.
3277
3278Hopefully, this will enable her to wake up from this nightmare…… Azusa herself prayed that this would be so.
3279
3280
3281
3282
3283
3284Barely averting being buried alive at the eleventh hour, Hirakawa let out a sigh of relief near the sturdy ceiling covered with metallic alloy.
3285
3286And finally had the leisure to discover her current posture.
3287
3288“!”
3289
3290Was that a record setting reflex action? Hirakawa thought as she successfully sank into panic. The reason why she was successful was likely because she didn’t enter a state of panic but was already submerged in one.
3291
3292At any rate, her limbs started moving first before she sprang away from the young man embracing her. Too ashamed to raise her head, but at the same time, she was highly curious as to what he looked like.
3293
3294In the end, she kept her head lowered while secretly sneaking peeks at the boy’s face, but this suspicious action did not seem to dwell on the young man’s mind.
3295
3296“Are you OK? Then please go ahead.”
3297
3298A voice that cared for her.
3299
3300For Hirakawa, it seemed like an eternity since she had heard someone say something like that. Between taking advantage of others and being seen as a “collaborator”, mutual care was nonexistent. After her mission’s failure and her subsequent capture, everything she heard sounded like a scolding.
3301
3302But this young man naturally expressed worry on her behalf…… For some reason, this was the feeling she got.
3303
3304“Ah, wait.”
3305
3306Hirakawa went through the door — and involuntarily clutched at the one who watched her and led her here — the young man’s shirt.
3307
3308“Well…… Thank you……”
3309
3310Right now, those words were all she could manage.
3311
3312“Hm? You’re welcome.”
3313
3314Once the young man (at this point, Hirakawa wasn’t aware of Tomitsuka’s name) naturally accepted her words, Hirakawa amazingly felt overjoyed.
3315
3316
3317
3318
3319
3320Under the guidance of Fujibayashi’s subordinates, Mayumi’s party arrived at the plaza before the station that led to the underground shelter and were shocked speechless by the terrible scene before them.
3321
3322The entire plaza had collapsed.
3323
3324On top, there was a gigantic metal block walking around.
3325
3326“Bipedal tanks…… Where the heck did they get that!?”
3327
3328This appeared to be an unexpected enemy for Fujibayashi as well, judging from the surprised tone of her voice.
3329
3330It was a humanoid walking, firing platform that was covered in armored plates made of metallic alloy.
3331
3332The bottoms of the short, stubby legs were equipped with treads and walking devices while the body was shaped like a small car with a single seat and was equipped with all sorts of weapons. There were also two long, mechanical arms, but there was no head.
3333
3334The robot had a total height of 3.5 meters, shoulder height approximately 3 meters, width 2.5 meters, and length 2.5 meters. The weapon was originally developed by Eastern Europe to annihilate infantry in urban settings.
3335
3336And there were two of them.
3337
3338Fully loaded and with the pilot aboard, the total weight was approximately 8 tons. Still, if that was all there was, it was highly unlikely that they could have collapsed the reinforced road.
3339
3340The underground shelter or maybe the tunnel must have suffered some sort of attack from the bipedal tanks.
3341
3342“Take this!”
3343
3344“Kanon, using ‘Mine Genesis’ will cause too much trouble!”
3345
3346After recovering her wits, Kanon was fired up and ready to unleash her magic, but was stopped by Isori grabbing her wrist.
3347
3348With the underground situation uncertain, there was a high possibility that using surface oscillation magic might worsen the tragedy.
3349
3350“I won’t use that!”
3351
3352Shaking off Isori’s hand, Kanon was about to activate her magic.
3353
3354Just as she took aim at the targets,
3355
3356—Not only were they shot to pieces, they were also covered in white frost.
3357
3358“Ah……”
3359
3360“As expected of Mayumi and Miyuki. We don’t even have time to do anything.”
3361
3362Standing next to Kanon as she stared blankly, Fujibayashi offered her praise while chuckling wryly. Mayumi was a little embarrassed whereas Miyuki only offered a smile of her own as the two of them bowed.
3363
3364“……The group that went through the underground tunnel appears to be fine. No trace of anyone buried beneath the rubble.”
3365
3366Mikihiko was the one who made that report. After closing his eyes and wearing an expression that indicated part of his mind was elsewhere, he had sent one of his five senses with the spirits to investigate.
3367
3368“Is that so. Since someone from the Yoshida Family said so, that must be the case. Good work.”
3369
3370“No, that’s hardly a praiseworthy achievement.”
3371
3372At Fujibayashi’s compliment, Mikihiko hurriedly opened his eyes and answered back.
3373
3374Looks like all the members who delighted in poking fun at innocent teenagers had gathered together.
3375
3376“—So, what do we do next?”
3377
3378Erika was the one who offered the next practical question.
3379
3380Seeing that Fujibayashi didn’t waver in the slightest at this slightly combative tone, she truly had the maturity of an adult.
3381
3382“Given that bipedal tanks have advanced this far, the situation must have worsened more than we imagined. From my perspective, I recommend evacuating to the base camp at Nogeyama.”
3383
3384“But isn’t that one of the enemy’s primary attacking targets?”
3385
3386“Mari, any enemy attacking now won’t differentiate between combat personnel and civilians. The danger will not decrease in the slightest even if you split off from the military. Rather, I’d say it would be even more dangerous.”
3387
3388Mayumi gently denied Mari’s argument.
3389
3390“Then, Saegusa-senpai, should we head for Nogeyama?”
3391
3392Isori asked the obvious question.
3393
3394However, Mayumi shook her head.
3395
3396“I plan to call in transport helicopters for civilians who haven’t managed to evacuate in time.”
3397
3398As Mayumi said this, her gaze turned towards the station. There, staring at the ruined entrance to the air shelter in despair, were countless civilians just standing there, and the number kept growing.
3399
3400“First, the wreckage needs to be removed to ensure a safe landing zone. I plan to stay here until the helicopters arrive. Mari, take everyone and evacuate with Kyoko.”
3401
3402“What are you saying!? You want to remain here alone!?”
3403
3404At this thoroughly unexpected response, of course Mari had a huge reaction.
3405
3406Yet Mayumi’s reply was resolute.
3407
3408“This is the duty of those who bear the name of the Ten Master Clans, Mari. We enjoy all sorts of privileges thanks to the name of the Ten Master Clans.
3409
3410Although this country does not officially have an aristocracy, in reality, we as the Ten Master Clans enjoy a degree of freedom outside the bounds of law. As a price for these privileges, we are required to contribute our power during times like this.”
3411
3412“—Then I will remain behind as well.”
3413
3414Determination was embedded in Mayumi’s words — or maybe it was resignation. Yet the one who replied in place of Mari was Isori.
3415
3416“I too, am a member of the Hundred Families who benefited from the government.”
3417
3418“If Kei stays, then I do too! I am also from the Hundred Families!”
3419
3420“Then, I as well. At the very least, I’m a daughter of the Chiba Family.”
3421
3422“Likewise. Onii-sama is engaged in battle, I cannot stand by and do nothing.”
3423
3424“M-Me too!”
3425
3426“I will contact my father to arrange for company helicopters.”
3427
3428“I am not of the Ten Master Clans or the Hundred Families…… But since all the girls from the lower grades are staying behind, how can I slink away with a tail between my legs?”
3429
3430“Me too. I have confidence in my own skills.”
3431
3432“I shall stay as well. Although I do not have Erika-chan, Kirihara-kun, or everyone’s might, allow me to make my amends.”
3433
3434“The Yoshida Family is not of the Hundred Families…… But we are also recipients of preferential treatment.”
3435
3436“Well, I don’t have any power, but at least I can serve as everyone’s ‘eyes’……”
3437
3438“……The underclassmen all want to stay, how can we just flee?”
3439
3440“Indeed. I’m uneasy at leaving Mayumi behind by herself. Maybe there will be something Mayumi unexpectedly overlooked.”
3441
3442“I say……”
3443
3444After Suzune’s comment, Mayumi finally voiced her objection,
3445
3446“Speaking of which…… I guess everyone here is an idiot too……”
3447
3448This was no act. This was Mayumi honestly sighing in “despair”, her beautiful face filled with resignation as she turned back to Fujibayashi.
3449
3450“It’s just as you heard. Seriously, my children are all so willfully disobedient…… I apologize for not being able to take up your kind offer.”
3451
3452Seeing Mayumi bow deeply in apology and the group behind her avert their eyes like miscreants, Fujibayashi appeared to be very serious on the surface, but inwardly she found this to be highly interesting.
3453
3454“No, they’re quite trustworthy. Allow me to leave a few subordinates behind.”
3455
3456“No, there’s no such need!”
3457
3458That voice did not come from the crowd of First High students but came from behind Fujibayashi instead.
3459
3460“Inspector?”
3461
3462“Toshi-nii?”
3463
3464Two different names for the same person.
3465
3466Inspector Chiba turned to face Fujibayashi, who had referred to him as “Inspector”.
3467
3468“Just as the military’s duty is to repel the invader, it is the police’s task to safeguard civilians. We will remain here. Fujibayashi…… Ahem, Lieutenant Fujibayashi, please rendezvous with your unit.”
3469
3470
3471
3472
3473
3474“Understood. Inspector Chiba, I leave this in your hands.”
3475
3476This superb entrance was coupled with a suitably dramatic declaration.
3477
3478Yet Fujibayashi didn’t even react to this as she saluted smartly and departed swiftly.
3479
3480“Hm……What a wonderful woman.”
3481
3482“Ha, dream on. She’s not the type of woman who’ll fall into Toshi-nii’s hands.”
3483
3484Unfortunately, the words he mumbled to himself were mercilessly dashed by his sister’s retort, causing Inspector Chiba to truly stand there “speechlessly”.
3485
3486
3487
3488
3489
3490In the parking garage reserved for large cars and special vehicles where Third High students were locked in combat with irregulars, approximately half of them were unable to join in the fighting. —Because they were emptying out the contents of their stomach.
3491
3492“Ichijou, can’t you hold back a little!”
3493
3494“You too senpai, please retreat.”
3495
3496The culprit was Masaki, not that he cared about the reprimand.
3497
3498He was pointing a handgun-shaped Specialized CAD stained in the scent of blood at the guerillas of unknown nationality.
3499
3500A blood red flower bloomed, and sprinkled down.
3501
3502Oomph, the sound of another person covering their mouth traveled to Masaki’s ears.
3503
3504Every time he killed a man, both his side’s and the enemy’s morale dropped a bit.
3505
3506(If this is enough to terrify you, you should never have stepped onto the battlefield in the first place.)
3507
3508Regardless of how those eyes perceived him or what words were directed towards him, Masaki coldly ignored them all.
3509
3510His perspective was correct. Indisputably correct.
3511
3512However — how many soldiers could calmly witness human bodies rupturing and blood (more like red blood cells) scattering like dust?
3513
3514The Ichijou Family’s secret technique, “Rupture”.
3515
3516Magic that was able to instantaneously vaporize fluids within a physical object.
3517
3518When used on humans, blood would vaporize and the subsequent pressure would tear through muscle and skin. Red blood cells, which made up the majority of the composition of blood, would then scatter outwards like a crimson flower that was blooming.
3519
3520Besides a select minority, his classmates and upperclassmen found out for the first time what it meant to be known as “Crimson”.
3521
3522
3523
3524
3525
3526From the other side, which was the command center located on the bridge of the camouflaged amphibious vessel that successfully launched their surprise attack, the area was covered in an atmosphere which was radically different than one of complete success.
3527
3528“We lost communication with the unit sent to the underground shelter. There is also no reply from the bipedal tanks.”
3529
3530The Commanding Officer (CO) of the unit, who was also the captain of the camouflaged amphibious vessel, had a sour look on his face when he received the signal officer’s report. His original plan called for the infiltrated operatives to take hostages before he committed the mechanized troops.
3531
3532However, the losses of the plainclothes operatives greatly exceeded initial estimates. This was especially true for the squads sent to the international conference center and the parking garage for large vehicles, where casualties were heavy. The captain judged the strategy that called for their feint to allow the operatives to do the majority of the work regretfully needed a little reworking.
3533
3534“Allow the mechanized troops to land!”
3535
3536He gave the order to launch the bipedal tanks and APCs manufactured in their own country.
3537
3538
3539
3540
3541
3542“……So? Why is Toshi-nii here?”
3543
3544In a corner of the plaza before the station, the Chiba siblings were putting on a not-quite-warm reunion act. (The older brother was quite happy, so maybe a reunion was not incorrect.)
3545
3546As for why they were in the “corner”, that was because neither Erika nor Toshikazu were adept at cleaning up the bipedal tanks’ wreckage, interrogating the captured pilots, or clearing the area so the helicopters could land. —Although saying that the currently active Inspector Toshikazu was “inept at interrogation” was a problem in its own right.
3547
3548At any rate, that was the reason why the two of them were loitering (in defense of their honor, Kirihara and Sayaka were doing the same).
3549
3550Still, at least Toshikazu didn’t mind that he didn’t really contribute much to this situation — Inagaki was — so he was enjoying this verbal spar with his little sister, who stood there with both hands on her hips.
3551
3552“The fact that you ask me why thoroughly saddens me. Is there anything strange with a kindhearted older brother wanting to help out his dear little sister?”
3553
3554“Kindhearted!? You have a lot of gall saying those hypocritical words……”
3555
3556“Hey, hey, Erika, a young lady should not use terms like ‘gall’.”
3557
3558“You! And now you dare to talk to me like I’m some sort of Ojou-sama. Do you even have the right!?”
3559
3560“Ah, how terrible…… It’s obvious that I love my little sister dearly.”
3561
3562Maybe Toshikazu went too far in feigning silliness, but the excited Erika swiftly calmed down. Seeing his sister’s expression change to one that was watching him with cold eyes, Toshikazu sighed as if bored.
3563
3564“At least my coming to help is definitely true.”
3565
3566Toshikazu said this with a bored expression and indolent tone, but upon seeing his sister sneer at him, he suddenly wore a mischievous smirk.
3567
3568“Is that the right attitude, Erika?”
3569
3570“What do you mean?”
3571
3572Erika’s expression wilted slightly. The other person is stronger, that was the impression — an uncomfortable feeling she didn’t know how to handle since her early childhood years and wasn’t something that could be easily erased.
3573
3574“I brought something nice for you.”
3575
3576“Something nice? I don’t want something like that.”
3577
3578Even so, Erika still held out — stubborn and refusing to capitulate. Chiba Toshikazu was one of two people that Erika would never surrender to.
3579
3580Not only was this something Toshikazu approved of, this was also something his sister always aimed for since her childhood.
3581
3582“Don’t be like that. Today, this is something you absolutely need.”
3583
3584For Toshikazu, “Little Erika” was the cute little sister whom anyone wanted to tease. Now, she was standing much stronger and cuter than before. “Let’s just end it here,” he said with with mischievous thoughts running through his head as he brought out a long, curved object from the cargo truck.
3585
3586Seeing the silhouette, Erika was at a loss for words.
3587
3588Removing the thin outer covering, Toshikazu handed the odachi to Erika.
3589
3590The entire length ran 180 cm and was even longer than Erika’s height.
3591
3592Just the blade alone was 140 cm long.
3593
3594For a tachi the curvature was too shallow, making it an unnatural shape—
3595
3596“Orochimaru? Why is that here……?”
3597
3598“Why? What a ridiculous question, Erika. Orochimaru is the blade forged to use ‘Yamatsunami’, and you are the only who can perform ‘Yamatsunami’. Neither our father nor Naotsugu can use ‘Yamatsunami’. Although they can mimic the form, the only one who can ‘truly use’ that is you. In other words, Orochimaru exists for you to wield.”
3599
3600Erika’s hands shook as she accepted the odachi.
3601
3602She tightly gripped this weight that was sufficient to send her swaying back and forth and finally stopped shivering.
3603
3604The Chiba Family forged the strongest weapons. Just like Ikazuchimaru, this was the pinnacle of sword-type armament forged by the Chiba Family, the secret weapon that was the source of their pride.
3605
3606Even for the briefest of moments, to be granted the freedom to wield this blade was something Erika never even dared to dream of.
3607
3608“You look delighted.”
3609
3610Hearing her brother’s voice, her head violently rose.
3611
3612The earlier resistance she bore towards her brother had vanished. Erika’s entire being was focused on Orochimaru.
3613
3614If she had to say why, that was because this sword—
3615
3616“Are you that happy to hold the beloved sword you see as an extension of yourself, Erika? Hm…… So that’s the case. No matter what our father or Naotsugu think, Erika, you are a true daughter of the Chiba Family.”
3617
3618“……Hmph! I’ll say thank you this time.”
3619
3620“That’s why young ladies should be so brusque……”
3621
3622Without waiting for Toshikazu to finish, Erika turned and left.
3623
3624Seeing Erika prance away with Orochimaru in her hands, Toshikazu smiled in delight at his sister’s easily understood attitude.
3625
3626
3627
3628
3629
3630“Do you have any new intel?”
3631
3632His upper body stuck inside the pilot’s seat of the bipedal tank, Isori heard a voice behind him, so he pulled himself out and shook his head.
3633
3634“No. I’m not very good with weapons and I think this is an older model purchased in the second hand markets. There’s no way to identify nationality.”
3635
3636“There are second hand markets for weapons?”
3637
3638Noticing the shocked expression on Mayumi’s face as she asked this question, Isori smiled and nodded his head.
3639
3640“There are even second hand markets for fighter jets. In small scale conflicts, weapons from the last World War are still seeing service.”
3641
3642Hmph~, despite Mayumi’s gentle smile of admiration, Isori felt a rather miffed aura beside him.
3643
3644At this time, he could tell who that was without even bothering to take a look.
3645
3646Isori reined in his expression and once again glanced at Mayumi.
3647
3648“Generally, weapons purchased from second hand markets in allied countries tend to be cheaper. Given that this bipedal tank is manufactured in Eastern Europe, the chance that these guys are operatives from the Great Asian Alliance is quite high…… However, in order to get at their motives, we still need intelligence out of the pilot.”
3649
3650“But, will he just give that up?”
3651
3652“That depends on Mari’s skills.”
3653
3654Mayumi shrugged her shoulders at Kanon’s obvious question.
3655
3656“Then I’m off to clean up the area.”
3657
3658Watching Isori lightly nod and head off with Kanon pressed close against him, Mayumi walked towards where Mari was conducting her interrogation.