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Chapter 7

Sunday, July 21st. Starting today, summer holidays begin at First High and the other magic high schools of the National University of Magic.

Usually at this time, the student council president was very busy preparing for the Nine

Schools Competition, but this year the competition was canceled, so a gap appeared in Miyuki's schedule.

However, this wasn't the reason that Miyuki remained on Miyakijima since yesterday on the pretext of caring for Tatsuya.... After all, Miyuki would have done exactly the same, even if the competition had not been canceled.

Including now, when the allegedly hospitalized Tatsuya was actually not in the hospital.

8 am. Miyuki who had already finished breakfast and arrived at the hospital where Tatsuya allegedly lies injured, received an incoming call on her mobile terminal.

Miyuki was now in the ICU observation room. It was forbidden to enter the ICU itself by everyone except doctors and nurses. Visitors can either watch what is happening in the ICU through the window leading to the corridor, or observe the patient through the monitor installed in the observation room. Miyuki's mobile terminal was able to receive an incoming call because a wireless repeater was installed in this surveillance room.

The walls of the hospital were made of materials blocking electromagnetic waves, so if Miyuki were in the corridor where you can look into the ICU through the window, the call wouldn't have come through. The electromagnetic isolation wouldn't allow incoming and outgoing communication on the terminal to work.

“Yes, this is Shiba.“

“Miyuki...“

A woeful voice was heard from the speaker, which was painful to hear.

“Honoka? Are you calling about Tatsuya-sama?“

Worried about having to deceive Honoka and the rest of her friends, Miyuki consciously answered in a calm voice.

“Actually, I wanted to call yesterday, but... Miyuki, that would be inappropriate, right?”

“Did Shizuku say that?”

“Yeah...“

Miyuki nearly burst into tears, and it wasn't a public game.

“...Thanks. For your concern.“

“Yeah.... So, how is Tatsuya-san...?“

“I don’t know if it would be appropriate to say “fortunately”, but nothing threatens his life. He still cannot leave the ICU, but if everything goes smoothly, then he will be discharged in about a week.“

Miyuki answered Honoka's question with a prepared phrase reflecting the “official version”.

“I see. Thank God...“

Contrary to Honoka's words, her voice remained worried.

“If your worried, then maybe you should come?“

Miyuki’s question wasn't the result of deep thought.

“Can I?“

“Sure.“

However, when Miyuki responded with consent to Honoka's question, the thoughts in her head took on a complete form.

In general, even letting someone in to the hospital was undesirable. Tatsuya's hospitalization was fictitious, and he himself was no longer in the country. In the hospital a doll which is an exact copy of Tatsuya, laid in a hospital bed in his place. If you permit "visiting the patient", which only allows visitors to get so close to the bed with the doll. That is why the option with ICU was chosen. However, the more visitors there are, the higher the risk of revealing this secret.

However, if none of his close school friends comes to visit him, it will look unnatural. In addition, Honoka, Shizuku, Erika and the rest are unlikely to do anything that puts Tatsuya in an unfavorable position. In this, Miyuki completely trusted them.

“I'm glad someone is worried about Tatsuya-sama. Honoka, are you coming alone?

There is no hotel on this island in the usual sense of the word, so I will prepare you a

place where you can spend the night.“

“Um, can I call you back a little later?“

“Sure.“

“Then, around noon.”

“Okay, I will wait.“

Honoka completed the call.

Immediately after this, Miyuki called the Yotsuba main house, not from a mobile terminal, but from a landline equipped with an encryption device.

Fortunately, she was quickly connected to Maya.

Without any thought, Maya immediately allowed Honoka and their other friends to be accepted.

The news that Tatsuya was hospitalized after meeting with sea terrorists has become a hot topic of discussion in the Master Clans as well. Not to such an extent, of course, in order to convene an extraordinary emergency Conference of the Master Clans again, but a rather decent number of telephone conversations between the heads of different families took place.

But among them there were also those who had enough of their own affairs.

For example, the Ichijou family.

“Rei-chan*, let's go have breakfast.“

[For those of you who didn't know or forgot: the Japanese have no “L” sound, and all these Liu Li Lei and others they pronounce Riu Ri Rei, etc. I used to write Lei-chan, but since the author came up with such a long explanation (here in text), let the

"nicknames" be through “R,” and the real name through “L.”]

“Thanks, Akane. I'm coming.”

Liu Li Lei, a Strategic-Class Magician who escaped from the GAA, said after completing her morning routine in the restroom in response to a proposal from Ichijou Akane, the eldest daughter of the Ichijou family. Yesterday, she moved from the Komatsu base to the Ichijou family mansion.

This decision was made at a meeting with the head of the Ichijou family, Ichijou Gouki, with representatives of the army command. This meeting took place the previous Sunday during a memorial dinner held after the funeral of Kudou Retsu. The meeting was also attended by the head of the Futatsugi family, Futatsugi Mai.

This measure was mainly designed to reduce the burden on Ichijou Akane, who was sent together with her older brother to Komatsu base for permanent stay there as Liu Li Lei's guard. The situation at the base wasn't so bad, but in the end it was decided that keeping a high school student literally locked up at a military base wasn't the best solution.

The move took place yesterday afternoon, because Masaki had closing ceremonies in high school yesterday. At the private secondary school Akane attended, summer holidays began 10 days earlier due to the unstable military situation, but in all high schools of magic, including Third High, the holidays began only today. Masaki had been absent from his school for a long time, so nothing had changed for him because of the start of the summer vacation. However, for adults who love formalities, this seemed like a "very convenient moment."

The Ichijou family mansion was divided into two sections: one in the western style for the family, and the other in the Japanese style in the spirit of ancient samurai houses for the reception of guests. The room in which Liu Li Lei was settled in was in the Japanese section. They, along with Akane, walked down the long corridor surrounding the house and came to the family dining room.

“Good morning everyone.“

“Good morning, Reira-chan.”

Liu Li Lei, who welcomed everyone according to etiquette, was answered by Ichijou Midori, the wife of the head of the family.

“Morning, Reira-san.”

Following her, Masaki answered. Gouki wasn't at home this morning.

Incidentally, this nickname "Reira" was an abbreviation from the Japanese reading of the hieroglyphs of the name "Li Lei", which sounded like "Ri Rei." When used in names, such a abbreviation is quite acceptable by generally accepted norms. Akane's “Rei-chan” used was an abbreviation for the real name “Li Lei,” but the version of “Reira”

was proposed by Liu Li Lei herself, who said: “It's hard to pronounce my real name, right?”

No one laughed at her explanation that “it was one of the pseudonyms for penetration missions,” but Masaki and the others were indeed at a loss what to call her. In the end, Midori and Masaki decided to call her "Reira." Gouki, by the way, used the appeal of

"Liu-dono", and Ruri, the second daughter of the family, simply reduced "Reira" and used the same nickname as her older sister: "Rei-chan."

So Liu Li Lei safely began to live with the Ichijou family.

However, society wasn't so kind to magicians that this peaceful life could last a long time. This is especially true for those who have the strength of the Strategic-Class.

The brunch at Ichijou's family began at 8:30. While the head of the family, Gouki, was currently summoned to the Kanazawa base of the National Self-Defense Forces.

The base commander, Colonel Asano, personally met Gouki in a grateful manner. For the Kanazawa base, cooperation with the Ichijou family was very important, and the base commander had no desire to do something like challenge this in a strict demanding manner.

“Thank you for arriving so early in the morning.”

“No, I arrived earlier than planned. Excuse me.”

Gouki answered Asano's words while also bowing. He was a tough man, but not rude.

In addition, this cooperation was not only important for Colonel Asano's side.

Asano led Gouki to the reception room, which was decorated quite luxuriously for a military base. As soon as they sat down, the conversation was immediately started with the phrase "let's get down to business."

“Is the General Staff dissatisfied with the move of Liu Li Lei to my house, or what?“

Until yesterday morning, the place where Liu Li Lei was under protection was the Komatsu air base. A week ago, Gouki met with senior officials of the General Staff,

which manages all the individual military departments: land, sea and air. And today he was called here by the General Staff of the ground forces.

Liu Li Lei was a foreign soldier seeking asylum, so the interference of the Ministry of Justice or the Ministry of Foreign Affairs could still be understood. The army had no need to touch on this issue. More precisely, the army wasn't in a position to have the right to intervene in this matter.

“I sincerely apologize. They didn’t tell us anything either, except that the topic would be to resolve the issues concerning Strategic-Class Magicians.“

“Will the self-defense forces command me to give them my son?”

“They didn't say anything to me. But to be honest, I would like your son to become an officer in the self-defense forces. And this is not only my opinion. However, this should never be forced. I think, besides me, many understand this.”

“Okay...“

Gouki, although he could not hide his gloom, but it was clearly not very serious. He arrived at Kanazawa's base an hour earlier than scheduled to find out in advance why he had been called today. But now, at best, he will know everything only at the last moment and won't be able figure out the desired topic in advance. However, he didn't expect that he could prepare sufficiently effective answers, so his disappointment wasn't so strong.

The topic of conversation between Gouki and the commander of the base Asano changed to Asano's hobby - fishing.

9:35 a.m. Arriving at the Kanazawa base wasn't an officer from the General Staff, but the commander of the 1-0-1 brigade, Lieutenant General Saeki.

Not only Gouki seemed suspicious. The Kanazawa base belonged to the 10th division.

Many of the base soldiers, including Commander Asano, bowed their heads inquiringly, wondering “why the 1-0-1 brigade commander?” But the base commander was a Colonel by rank, and Saeki was a Lieutenant General. No one would say a word if Saeki would say that she came as a representative of headquarters. Colonel Asano returned to his office, and opposite Gouki, Saeki sat instead.

Behind Saeki stood a female officer of about 30 years old. It was the escort of Saeki from Kasumigaura base, Captain Kido Otoha. Saeki didn't bring Kazama with her today.

“Thank you very much for making this journey for the sake of our meeting.“

Saeki bowed. Gouki didn't even nod in response.

“Because it’s better than if you suddenly broke into my house. So, in what case did you call me so urgently?“

“Such circumstances arose that I needed to personally meet with you.“

As they both said, Saeki first asked permission to visit the Ichijou family mansion. To which Gouki replied with a categorical refusal, and as a result, the meeting was scheduled at Kanazawa base.

Saeki wasn't offended that Gouki didn't even try to hide his bad mood. In fact, this wasn't a serious manifestation of emotions, but an attempt to impose a sense of duty through complaints of coercion to something excessive. But Saeki understood this and knew how to use it.

“So, what is your business?”

But Gouki was only thinking about it, if only everything went fine. He no longer complained, and instead asked Saeki his last question again.

“I was told that the topic of discussion will be about a solution to the question regarding the issues concerning Strategic-Class Magicians.“

“Yes. To get started, take a look at this.“

Saeki said, and at the same time, Captain Kido handed Gouki a paper folder with documents.

“... The Strategic-Class Magicians Control Agreement? Could you explain?“

“Sure.“

Saeki immediately answered Gouki's question, asked with doubt in her eyes.

“Since the beginning of this year, Strategic-Class and other large-scale magic has been used everywhere, as if breaking through some kind of dam.“

Saeki listed the names of the magic and the places where they were used: Synchronized-Linear Fusion, Thunderclap Tower, Active Air Mine, Tuman Bomba.

“The concern of people over large-scale magic is growing all over the world. This can turn into mass hysteria and unrest.“

“And to stop this concern, you want to place Strategic-Class Magicians under the control of the International Magic Association?”

“No, each country will be controlled exclusively. And the Magic Association will be given the right to conduct inspections over the control of Strategic-Class Magicians.“

“... But isn't this actually the same as it has been so far?”

“If you now ask a state to part with its Strategic-Class Magician , then you won't receive consent. Therefore, you can’t leave everything as it is now. I believe that the anxiety of the masses will be significantly reduced if, instead of the current conditions, when only the state has control, a system will be introduced that gives international guarantees for state control.“

“I see... But why should Japan take the lead by proposing all this?”

Gouki asked Saeki this question, clearly pronouncing every word with a serious face and gaze.

“To avoid suspicion of Japan.“

“What other suspicions?”

“Suspicions of territorial ambitions.“

Saeki's answer was unclear. Gouki's face showed that he didn't understand the point.

“In our country at the moment there are two foreign Strategic-Class Magicians : Angie Sirius and Liu Li Lei.“

“Angie Sirius?“

From the behavior of the surprised Gouki, Saeki realized that he wasn't pretending. She came to the conclusion that the Master Clans didn't share with each other information about the escape of Angie Sirius.

“Angie Sirius is being harbored by the Yotsuba family.”

“Hmm...“

Gouki showed deep wrinkles on his forehead. It seems that this willful behavior of the Yotsuba family caused Gouki at the same time feelings of discontent and danger. That was exactly the reaction Saeki needed.

“In addition to these two, the other day your son was approved as a official Strategic-Class Magician. In addition, in October the year before last, it was our country for the first time in the world used Strategic-Class magic in war.“

“... "Scorched Halloween"?“

“Although, at the time, it was a necessary measure for the sake of national defense, it is also impossible to deny that as a result, it was we who were the first to remove the seal from using Strategic-Class magic. That is why our country should take the initiative in resolving the issue of control over Strategic-Class magic.“

“Okay.“

Gouki nodded exaggeratedly.

“So, then what do you want from my family?”

He asked this, looking directly into Saeki's eyes.

“I would like your son, Ichijou Masaki-dono, as well as Liu Li Lei, who is under the protection of the Ichijou family, to agree to obey the government’s decisions to use Strategic-Class magic.”

“The question is only in the use of Strategic-Class magic? Without joining the ranks of self-defense forces?“

“To enter the service or not, they must decide for themselves.“

“And that is true.“

Gouki nodded again.

“So all that we have just discussed will depend on the personal opinions of Masaki and Lui-dono.”

“Ah... no... but after all...“

Saeki thought that Gouki thus wanted to abruptly end their conversation.

But she was mistaken.

“Let's call them here, and let them decide.”

“Right now?“

“Yes. You don’t mind waiting a bit?

“...Good. I agree.“

Saeki had no choice but to agree to this proposal imposed by Gouki.

The conversation continued after about 30 minutes.

Now, in front of Saeki, Masaki sat in his school uniform and Liu Li Lei in a summer dress.

Liu Li Lei wasn't in the form of the army of the Great Asian Alliance at her own request.

And she borrowed the summer dress, of course, from Akane.

Akane wasn't with them. If there was even a tiny chance that Liu Li Lei would commit sabotage based on Kanazawa, then Akane, as a user of Nervous Disorder, would still be sent as an escort. But at least in the Ichijou family everyone (including Gouki, Masaki, and Midori) thought there was nothing to worry about.

In addition, if Liu Li Lei acts at least a little suspiciously, then Saeki's bodyguard Captain Kido will without hesitation get and use a gun.

Saeki had to try and tell the same thing she had recently told Gouki, a second time for Masaki and Liu Li Lei.

“... I understand what you are trying to say, Your Excellency.”

After hearing Saeki's story, Masaki responded to her silent appeal to express their views.

“I agree with your opinion that we should take some measures to reduce people's anxiety about magicians. In addition, I didn't intend to use Ocean Blast on my own, so I do not think that my freedom will be somehow limited if the permission of the government is required to use this magic.”

“So Masaki-san, do you agree with the control of Strategic-Class Magicians?”

“Yes. However, as far as my career is concerned, at the moment I am going to enter the

University of Magic, so I would like to ask you to postpone the question whether I should enter the military service or not.“

“That is enough for me.”

Saeki nodded in satisfaction when she heard Masaki answer.

“What about you, Lieutenant Liu?”

With Masaki's consent, Saeki’s current goal has been achieved. Saeki believed that Liu Li Lei would eventually return to the GAA, so there was no point in asking her opinion right now. Saeki asked Liu Li Lei this question " casually."

“I agree with what Masaki-san said.”

“... Do you mean in response to maintaining control of Strategic-Class Magicians?”

Saeki asked again, because Liu Li Lei's answer was rather unexpected.

“If Masaki-san says it’s necessary, then I’m also okay with it.”

Liu Li Lei's response was again a complete surprise for Saeki.

Saeki involuntarily looked away from her companion and stared at Masaki.

Masaki was at a loss for words. His cheeks twitched, and his eyes darted from side to side.

“... Just for reference, Lieutenant Liu, what will you do if Masaki-san advises you to obtain Japanese citizenship and enlist in the Japanese Self-Defense Forces?”

“I will do as Masaki-san says.”

There was a sudden loud laugh.

Having patiently endured before this with a forced smile, Gouki finally, could no longer restrain himself.

“Gee, I didn't expect that my stupid son is capable of this.”

“Father!“

Masaki, in a panic, tried to rein in Gouki with a stare.

Perhaps this helped, since the next words of Gouki were already said in a serious tone.

“As they themselves said, let's wait with the issue of cooperation with the self-defense forces before graduating from the University of Magic. The right to inherit family leadership, if necessary, I will transfer to one of my daughters.“

Gouki got up.

“So, I think we answered all the questions that need to be answered.”

“Yes. Thank you for your positive answers.”

Said Saeki and also rose from her seat.

Masaki and Liu Li Lei also hastily stood up to keep up with the situation.

... This conversation took place on the evening of July 19, the day before Liu Li Lei moved to the Ichijou family home.

Venue: Liu Li Lei's room at Komatsu base.

In fact, it all started as common girl talk between Liu Li Lei and Ichijou Akane. But then...

“Rei-chan, are you in love with Nii-san?”

“... This is a rather sudden question. Why are you even asking about something like that?“

“Well, probably because it bothers me as a little sister.”

“Akane, do you have a brother complex?”

“Nah, nothing like that. After all, I have plans for Shinkuro-kun.“

“Is Shinkuro-kun the same Kichijouji Shinkuro-kun known as Cardinal George? I thought

that he would be a colder person, like all these scientists, but it turned out that he was pretty kind.“

“Yes!... No, no, stop, this isn't about me. Rei-chan, so you fell in love with Nii-san?“

“... Do I have to answer?“

“I want to know!“

“... I think I like him. Masaki-san is a kind person.“

“Kind? Rei-chan, you have a different view of things. Most of the women who fell in love with Nii-san explain it by saying that "he is handsome" or "he is strong.””

“I saw a lot of strong people. But Masaki-san is the first man who really was kind to me.

Other men had only feigned smiles, behind which they hid the desire to use me for their own purposes.“

“Oh... Well, good or bad, Nii-san is not a liar.”

“On the day when my country sent a sweeping squad, I was very glad about the sensitivity of Masaki-san, who said kind words about Lin-tze... that is, about Lieutenant Lin.“

“I see, that's where it started. But you know, Rei-chan. Nii-san is rather stupid in such matters, so if you seriously intend to get him, then nothing will come of it if you do not go on the offensive yourself.“

“Get him... Do you mean to become lovers? But isn't that too... vulgar for a girl?“

“No! I'm completely different, Rei-chan! Your explanation would be suitable for the 20th century! But now it's the end of the 21st!“

“Okay...“

“To crave something too much is also not good. Because men like "shyness" and

"femininity." They are dreamers.“

“Um... Do you mean dreamers*?“

[The author constantly inserts English words into the speech of the characters. In this case, Akane said "dreamers" in English, and Liu Li Lei asked again in Japanese for clarification.]

“Yes, they mostly are. In particular, Nii-san seems to prefer the obedient and fragile women of the typical Japanese type, "Yamato-Nadeshiko." “I will follow you in everything” - approximately this approach should give you results.“

“... I get it. I'll try. But Akane, does that really suit you?“

“What suits you?“

“I heard that Japanese girls do not like when someone falls in love with their older brothers, and that they try in every possible way to interfere with this.“

“Where did you get such information from!? Yes, and I already said! I have no brother complex!“

“Sorry.“

“Well, there are girls like that too. But personally, I will support you, Rei-chan. I don’t want to see Nii-san kicking a horse*.

[Some old Japanese phraseological phrase. I didn’t find the exact meaning, but it roughly means an unlucky person (it all started with some kind of samurai who died from the fact that he was kicked by a horse).]

“A horse? Kicking?“

“But it's an impregnable height. An almost impossible effort will be required.“

“?“

“Therefore, Rei-chan, try your best!“

“Yes... No, that is, thank you, Akane. I will try to.“

Thus, behind this sudden “attack”, which took Masaki by surprise today, lurked this conversation between the two girls, which took place two days before...

Saying goodbye to Ichijou Gouki, Masaki, and Liu Li Lei, Lieutenant General Saeki, accompanied by Captain Kido, left Kanazawa base. They boarded a helicopter, waiting for them at the helipad, and flew to Kasumigaura base.

When the base from which they flew out of disappeared over the horizon, Saeki leaned back in her seat and took a deep breath.

“... Your Excellency, are you unhappy with something about the answers of the Ichijou family?”

Captive Kido spoke with an indecisive tone to Saeki.

“No, I got even more than I expected.”

In contrast to this answer, Saeki's face didn't look pleased.

Seeing Captain Kido's face filled with doubt, Saeki sighed again.

“... Both from the Ten Master Clans, the same age... I thought they wouldn't be much different.”

“Are you talking about the differences between Ichijou Masaki-kun and Shiba Tatsuya-kun? Indeed, compared to Shiba-kun, Ichijou-kun is more like a typical teenager and seems more immature.“

“Captain, you're a little wrong.”

Saeki, in a strict tone, rejected the impressions expressed by Kido.

“... No, at first glance, it looks like that, but...“

It seemed to Saeki that her tone was stricter than she wanted, so she lowered her voice to soften it.

“Ichijou-kun is much more aware of what should be a priority for the country. Ichijou-kun is more mature in that he understands his responsibilities.“

“This is also reflected in the differences between the positions of the Ichijou and Yotsuba families, right?“

“I agree. Instead of looking at the Ten Master Clans as one group, we should evaluate them separately... No, maybe it would be better to say that we must crush each of them

separately?“

“These are the basics of tactics.“

Seeing Kido's serious face giving her joke, Saeki smiled slightly.

But there was absolutely no smile in her eyes.

Fujibayashi Nagamasa, defeated by Tatsuya and captured by Kuroba Mitsugu's subordinates, was admitted to a hospital in Kofu. This hospital was under the control of the Yotsuba family. Although his injuries were treated here, it could be said that he was actually imprisoned here.

His daughter Fujibayashi Kyouko visited his ward on July 21 at 11 a.m.

“Welcome, Lieutenant Fujibayashi.”

“... Tsukuba Yuuka-san, as far as I remember?“

Nagamasa had a separate personal room, but it turned out that at the moment he wasn't alone there. Yuuka knew that Kyouko would be arriving today, so she came to meet her in the room.

“I am honored that you know me. I would like to discuss something with you and your father... Do you mind?“

It was the usual polite request for permission, but the situation didn't allow the option to refuse.

“Yeah, I don't mind.“

Feeling forced, Kyouko announced that she agreed.

This room was quite spacious, and on both sides of the bed were simple chairs for visitors, so two people could easily sit opposite each other for a conversation. Kyouko sat in the chair farthest from the entrance, and Yuuka sat in the chair closest to the entrance.

“So. It would be rude of me, as an outsider, to disturb the conversation between father and daughter for a long time, so I will immediately inform you of the Yotsuba family’s demand.“

Kyouko tightened her whole body. In contrast to her, Nagamasa lay relaxed in a semi-sitting position in his raised-back bed.

“The Yotsuba family decided not to disclose the crimes of Kudou Makoto and his accomplices.”

Kyouko, stiff with tension, flinched sharply. It was obvious that one of Yuuka’s mentioned "accomplices" was Fujibayashi Nagamasa.

“But in return...“

Ignoring Kyouko’s reaction, Yuuka continued to voice the demand.

“... we would like Lieutenant Fujibayashi to testify as a witness to the activities of Lieutenant General Saeki to help enemies.”

“Helping enemies... what are you talking about?“

Kyouko with a pale face asked Yuuka.

The look on her face was tantamount to admitting that she "knew something."

“Well. For example, the case when, knowing about the penetration of Lu Ganghu into the country, Saeki ignored it.“

Kyouko caught her breath.

“You know about other cases, right?”

Perhaps Yuuka was bluffing. The Yotsuba family might not have been aware of the

“other cases,” and in the Lu Ganghu case, they probably didn't have evidence.

But Yuuka was so agile from the very beginning seized the initiative in the conversation that Kyouko couldn’t say it with confidence.

“... I would like to discuss this with my family.”

Kyouko planned to buy some time to gather her thoughts.

“We have already received consent from the head of the family, Nagamasa-sama, and the eldest son Choutaro-sama.“

But Yuuka anticipated even that.

“... Please allow me to speak with my father for a moment.”

“Understood. I'll be waiting in the hallway. Call me when you are done.“

Yuuka left the room, but her last words exerted such pressure, as if she said "don't take too long."

Exactly the same moment the door closed, Kyouko exhaled deeply.

“Otou-sama.“

Kyouko stood up and turned to Nagamasa.

“Is it true that you agreed to a deal with the Yotsuba family?”

She stood and waited for the answer from her father.

“...It's true.“

Nagamasa answered only after three seconds. There was no hesitation or guilt in his voice.

“...“

Kyouko didn't know what to say for a while, choosing between complaints and reproaches.

“I understand that in a situation like this where you are a prisoner, you simply had no choice. However...“

The Yotsuba family demanded that Kyouko become a traitor. In a sense, disclosing the dishonesty of a superior officer may not be considered a betrayal of the state. But justice can be applied not only in the right way. Kyouko didn't think that the Yotsuba family would use her “testimony” to achieve righteous goals.

“I would have agreed to the demands of the Yotsuba family, even if I weren't a prisoner.

The loser obeys the winner. That is our rule.”

“But then I will become a traitor!”

Kyouko's words seemed pretty insensitive. She took it as if he didn’t care what position she was in.

“You are not only a soldier, but also a person from the Fujibayashi family.”

“You want to say that I have to leave the army!?”

“I will ask in response. Is Lieutenant General Saeki worthy of such complete fidelity that you are ready to become an accomplice to her fraud?“

“That...“

At this moment, it wasn't the faces of her superiors or colleagues that arose in Kyouko's head. But the words of Yotsuba Maya, about the fact that she "wastes herself and is worthy of a better cause."

She first felt (more precisely, realized) doubts about the fact that she should be a soldier at the moment when, in February this year, she heard a message about the death of Chiba Toshikazu, with whom she had a friendly relationship with after a couple of conversations. Like a chain reaction, this led her to a memory of how death parted her from her fiancé, and how she could not understand the reason why she entered military service.

However, at the same time, she had a feeling that she had doubts about her work much earlier.

"It all started to seem strange... last August."

It all started with the fact that the plans to conduct an experiment with Parasite Dolls at the Nine Schools Tournament were revealed, which forced Kudou Retsu to truly resign this time.

Her grandfather, Kudou Retsu, and Saeki were longtime rivals.

"After Oji-sama's plans were revealed, Her Excellency Saeki seemed to have broken the chain..."

Was her self-control weakened by a victory over a long-standing rival? Kyouko knew from personal experience that since then there have been many more orders for her,

clearly beyond the responsibilities of the commander of one brigade. Many of Kyouko’s assignments were clearly illegal in the past, but over the past year she has experienced many times the feeling that now these assignments have begun to go beyond the bounds of illegality.

“Kyouko. Does Lieutenant General Saeki deserve your loyalty as boss? Is the 1-0-1

brigade a higher priority organization than the Fujibayashi family?“

“... Everything wrong should be corrected.“

Kyouko made such a compromise with her feelings.

“There are only two cases that I can testify to. But one of them is not helping enemies.“

This was the answer given by Kyouko to Yuuka.

Yuuka, seated in the same chair as before, nodded in satisfaction.

“The first case is Saeki's silence about the penetration of Lu Ganghu.“

“Yes. Kyouko nodded in response to Yuuka's reminder.“

“And what is the second?“

Kyouko no longer wondered if Yuuka knew of other cases, or not.

“The materials and funds for the development of parasite dolls were provided to the Kudou family... Uncle Makoto... Her Excellency Saeki.”

“Are you talking about some other parasite dolls besides those stored frozen in the former Ninth Laboratory?”

Yuuka didn't show a single bit of surprise at hearing Kyouko's confession.

Kyouko was never able to determine if Yuuka knew about this beforehand or not.... But she already didn't care.

“I'm talking about blank bodies for the parasite dolls, released since September last year. Her Excellency was considering replacing infantry units with units of parasite dolls.“

“But the Ministry of Defense didn’t approve the development cost?“

“The army command also didn't approve.“

“In other words, bribery is obvious.“

“Right. I didn't think about finding out the money trails, but if you study them in more detail, the names of military-related enterprises with which Her Excellency has close ties will come up.“

“Thank you for such details. We will study the sources of the bribes.“

Kyouko nodded silently and expressionlessly at Yuuka's words.

“... So Shizuku, Erika, and Saijou-kun will come too?”

“Yeah.... or not?“

“No problem. Total of four people from tomorrow morning for a day, right?“

“Yes, please.“

“Alright. I will prepare everything.“

“Thanks. Well, see you tomorrow then.“

“Yes, I'll be waiting.“

It was now past one o'clock in the afternoon. Immediately after completing her conversation with Honoka, Miyuki opened her address book and reached out to press the button on the administration office communication device to ask them to prepare sleeping accommodations for four people.

However, a moment before she touched the touch panel, the melody of an incoming voice call began to play.

The message “incoming call from Saegusa Mayumi-sama” appeared on the screen .

“Yes, this is Shiba.“

“Miyuki-san? This is Saegusa Mayumi.“

“We haven’t talked for a long time, senpai.”

“Yeah, a long time.... This time something absolutely terrible happened. Miyuki-san, are you okay?“

“Thank you very much for your concern. But, as they say, there is a silver lining.

Tatsuya-sama’s life is not in danger, and after his recovery there should be no complications or side effects.“

Mayumi was very careful choosing her words. While Miyuki’s answer seemed very strong-willed to her. Their dialogue up to this point was a normal conversation between a kohai, whose fiancé had an accident, and a senpai, who was worried about the two.

“What about Tatsuya-kun's Restoration...? Did it not work this time?“

“The power of Tatsuya-sama is also magic, so he cannot use it without being conscious... I don't think Tatsuya-sama could have imagined that he was being attacked by a self-defense patrol ship.“

“That's it. Unlike “superpowers,” “magic” can't be used unconsciously. You can't build magic unless you make your subconscious mind work with your consciousness...“

“Yeah.“

“And one more thing... Ummm... Miyuki-san, if you will allow me, can I visit Tatsuya-kun?”

“But Tatsuya-sama is still not able to receive visitors...”

“Well, if you can't, then so be it.”

“No... well, I get it. Do you mind if I consult with the family and call you back?“

Mayumi, without further explanation, understood that when Miyuki mentioned

"family" she meant the Yotsuba.

A girl from the Saegusa family requested a visit to the groom of the next head of the Yotsuba family. Mayumi considered it natural that they should be asked for permission

from the head of the family.

“Yes of course. I will wait.“

“I’ll try to call back as soon as possible.“

They both ended the conversation in a completely natural manner, without showing any awkwardness to each other's words and tone.

Miyuki headed to the hospital telephone room, leaving Lina in the ICU observation room. The telephone room was divided into six separate sub-rooms - “telephone booths.” Using her ID card, she entered one of these booths, equipped with a direct video link to Yotsuba's main house.

This completely soundproofed little cubicle didn't have chairs. There was a console near the entrance, and a 40-inch panel was hung on the opposite wall.

Miyuki entered three different ten-digit numbers on the console.

Maya herself appeared on the wall monitor immediately.

“Oba-sama, I apologize for the frequent calls.“

“Don't worry about it. Is someone asking for a visit again?“

“Yes, I just got a call from Saegusa Mayumi-san.“

Miyuki wasn't at all surprised at such an accurate guess. At present, the “visiting Tatsuya” was the first thing that came to mind when Miyuki called the main house, and even if the phone was tapped, there was nothing wrong with that.

“The Saegusa family, then?”

But Maya, on the contrary, showed signs of surprise.

“This is hardly a personal visit... I wonder what their purpose is?“

Miyuki agreed with Maya that Mayumi’s request was most likely the intention of the head of the Saegusa family. But it was clear that Maya didn't require Miyuki to answer this question.

“... Okay, fine.“

As usual, Maya herself came to some sort of decision.

“Miyuki-san, you can agree to her request.”

“Are you sure you should invite Saegusa-senpai?”

“Yes. Miyuki-san, I'm giving you the job of dealing with Mayumi-san.“

Maya didn't set any conditions for the eldest daughter of the Saegusa family to enter the stage of this performance.

“I understand.“

For some reason, Miyuki wasn't surprised.

“How did everything go?”

Lina asked Miyuki, who returned to the observation room.

“I got consent. And without any special conditions.“

Lina was very surprised at Miyuki’s answer.

“Uh? But Mayumi, the Saegusa family are Yotsuba's rivals?“

“We are not hostile to each other, but neither are we friendly.“

It seems that Lina’s concern only grew when she saw Miyuki’s unbiased attitude towards this matter.

“Is that okay? After all, it would be bad if, due to this leak, everyone finds out that Tatsuya's hospitalization is a fake.“

“Everything will be OK.“

Miyuki said and smiled at Lina.

“Miyuki... You have some kind of creepy, evil smile.”

“How rude.“

Lina's face froze, but the voice of Miyuki's reply wasn't particularly angry.

“Leaking information about fictitious hospitalization would really be a problem... But if it is senpai, then everything will be okay. If you politely ask, she will be silent.“

“... Yeah, right. I’m sure it will be.”

Lina muttered in a unconvincing tone, seeing that Miyuki's smile had become even more piercing. Lina was clearly afraid to continue discussing this topic any further.

Ignoring Lina’s unnatural behavior, Miyuki called the administration office to ask for guest rooms for five people.

After stopping by the General Staff Headquarters, Saeki eventually returned to Kasumigaura base at the beginning of the fifth hour of the day.

Entering the commander’s office, Saeki immediately summoned Kazama. Despite the fact that today was Sunday, Kazama appeared quite quickly.

“Lieutenant Colonel, do you know about the news of Shiba Tatsuya 's hospitalization?”

Saeki asked Kazama, who stood in front of the table.

“Of course, I know of it.“

“And what do you think?”

Although the question was quite abstract, Kazama knew exactly what Saeki was asking.

“It is hard to believe that he is really seriously injured. Tatsuya has that self-healing ability.“

Saeki made a stern face and asked Kazama the following question.

“If the hospitalization is false, then for what purpose was this done?“

“Perhaps the most likely cover is for an attack on Midway Prison. And perhaps he has already left the country.“

“The Intelligence Department also has doubts about this incident.“

“Did you go to the Intelligence Department?”

The buildings of the General Staff Headquarters and the army Intelligence Department were within walking distance of each other. Kazama decided that Saeki didn't get this information by telephone, but by going straight there.

And at that moment, Kazama felt a certain uneasiness.

“Your Excellency. Of course, I doubt it, but have you really told the Intelligence Department about Tatsuya's "Restoration"?“

Tatsuya's “Restoration” is a far greater secret than his “Decomposition”. This was agreed upon in a contract with Yotsuba.

This agreement was terminated at the very moment when Tatsuya relinquished his special officer status. However, the obligation to maintain confidentiality remained even after the termination of the contract. Although these were not legal obligations, and there were no documents left, but precisely because it was the wrong side of the world living outside the law, trust was of great importance.

“... The Intelligence Department launched an investigation yesterday.”

Saeki didn't answer Kazama's question.

Kazama realized that it was useless to ask again, so he didn't bother with further questions on this subject.

“Was it successfully infiltrated?“

Kazama asked instead.

“I heard that they sent a scout disguised as a reporter... But to be honest, the security there seems completely impregnable.“

“It is shameful, of course, that the army Intelligence Department can not surpass the civilian. But such is their opponent. Nothing to do about.“

Kazama criticized his colleagues as if it was none of his business.

Saeki's face showed irritation.

“Lieutenant Colonel, we must not 'do nothing.'"

“But the real problem is that a forced investigation is impossible. If you look at the situation with an open mind, Tatsuya is a victim.“

“Does this incident itself seem to you unnatural? How could it be so coincidental that the entire crew of the patrol ship would turn out to be anti-magicians?“

“And what if it wasn't an accident, but a planned attack by a faction of the fleet that supports the anti-magic movement? Or, for example, some kind of "faction against the Ten Master Clans"?“

Saeki fell silent.

Not only Kazama, but anyone would know, this didn't convince her.

“Your Excellency... Sorry for being rude, but are you not being too hostile against Tatsuya?”

“I'm not being hostile against him.”

Saeki's denial was so harsh that it seemed like one of those natural, reflex reactions.

Kazama decided not to argue any further.

“...I apologize.“

“... If you find out anything about Shiba Tatsuya’s activity, then report it immediately.”

Saeki didn't say "forgive" in response to Kazama's apology. And there was no reaction to that statement by Kazama, other than denial. It was clear that her last sentence was said solely in order to get rid of an uncomfortable topic.

“I understand you.“

“That's all I wanted to talk about. You are free to go, Lieutenant Colonel.“

Hearing Kazama’s response, Saeki ordered him to leave as permitted.