Chapter 1

"Taurus Silver is a student at the National Magic University Affiliated

High School, Mr. Shiba Tatsuya. People of Japan. I want you to
convince Mr. Shiba Tatsuya."
The appearance of the mysterious personality in the video, calling
himself one of the "Seven sages", caused a wide public outcry not only
in Japan, but also in America.
In the field of Magic Science, Taurus Silver is given as much attention
as the pioneer of the "Cardinal code", Kichijoji Shinkuro. But unlike
Kichijoji, who had no new achievements since the discovery of the
Cardinal Code for Weight-Type Magic, Taurus Silver, implemented a
practical version for Flight-Type Magic, which was celebrated.
"Cardinal George" in the theoretical field and "Taurus Silver" in the
technical field. This was the common view of Japan by the American
Magic Association.
And now, hidden for all this time, the identity of Taurus Silver was
revealed. Furthermore, it turned out that he was also a high school
student like Kichijoji Shinkuro. This news, that became a sensation,
attracted attention from those who ordinarily aren’t interested in magic.
Raymond laughed when he saw the reaction of ordinary people on the
Internet, which he expected would be quite turbulent. He realized what
he was doing was dark and therefore couldn’t enjoy it together with his
friends from school.
His work in the role of "Seven sages" was a secret that was only known
by himself and his father, Edward Clark. He couldn't boast about this in
front of his simple friends.
The moment Raymond got up from the table and thought it was time
for dinner, the home security system alerted him that his father returned
home. At the same time, Raymond came to the realization that it is
unusual for his father to appear in the daytime.
His father Edward comes home once or twice a week. When he needs
his father, he usually goes to his office... And his mother divorced his
father and left when Raymond was 10 years old.
The day of the week on which Edward usually came home hadn’t arrived
yet.
Naturally Raymond realized that it was his "prank" that caused Edward's
unusual actions.
"Dad, welcome back."
Of course he'll be angry. In anticipation of this, Raymond came out of
his room and greeted his father with a smile.
"Raymond, that was a stupid thing to do!"
"Sorry."
Edward's voice was more rigorous than Raymond expected. However,
Raymond's apology was only in words. Neither his thoughts nor the
expression on his face hinted at any fear.
He understood that his father must be seriously angry.
"...But the result was convenient. If the privacy of the minor was
violated the public opinion, media and human rights organizations would
raise unnecessary fuss. I would have suffered greatly if I had taken this
next step in the pursuit of Shiba Tatsuya."
"I'm glad I helped my dad."
Raymond only made a submissive face for a few seconds. Edward's
reprimand and his true intentions that followed were within Raymond's
expectations.
The USNA government, a democratic state, cannot openly violate the
rights of magicians. Especially the rights of a minor. That is why
Edward could not use the real name of Taurus Silver to control the
public opinion of the Japanese. Despite this, he expected that for the
USNA, it was most advantageous if the name "Shiba Tatsuya" would
come under pressure of the public opinion.
But if this information was leaked from sources other than government
officials, the government of the USNA will not be attacked by the media
and human rights organizations. The disclosure of the identity of Taurus
Silver by Raymond, who plays the role of one of the "Seven Sages",
meets these requirements.
But if this information was leaked from sources other than government
officials, the government of the USNA will not be attacked by the media
and human rights organizations. The disclosure of the identity of Taurus
Silver by Raymond, who plays the role of one of the "Seven Sages",
meets these requirements.
Raymond guessed this.
"Can I do anything else for dad?"
Raymond's question was not the desire to fulfill his duty as a son, but the
desire to play further.
Edward squinted a little. Of course, he also realized what his son
expected from his actions. He did not scold him because he came to the
conclusion that "The Seven Sages" are quite useful.
"I plan to visit Japan in the near future."
"You, personally?" Edward nodded to Raymond's question.
"You want to go too?"
"Can I? I'll go!"
Raymond immediately accepted his father's proposal.
When Tatsuya watched the video addressed by the Seven Sages, it was 7
o'clock in the morning. It took three hours before he came out of deep
reflection and started acting.

At 10 o'clock in the morning. Tatsuya called the main house of the

Yotsuba.
"Sorry about the wait. Terrible things have happened, haven't they?"
Unlike the previous times, when he wanted to talk to Maya, this time she
didn't pretend she wasn't there. However, instead of a dumbfounded
expression, Maya's greeting, which appeared on the screen, contained not
a drop of concern.
"Yes. I believe that we will no longer be able to confront this passively."
Tatsuya answered directly to the tantalizing words of Maya.
"...I wonder how we can respond well?"
Maya slightly knitted her eyebrows, showing that it would be unpleasant
if expectations were not met.
"I called to talk about this."
Even when Maya showed that she was in a bad mood, the expression on
Tatsuya’s face did not change. Not showing even a polite smile, he
finished the entry and moved to the main issue.
"Do you have any ideas?"
"Yes..."
The light smile vanished from Maya's face, and she pondered. Tatsuya
silently waiting for the answer, watching her image on the screen.
"I'll send a man to pick you up. It's a little early, but let's talk at lunch."
The second hand of the clock managed to make half a turn before Maya
gave this order.
"Understood."
Tatsuya thought it wouldn’t be a problem if they discussed it on the
phone. But he didn't mind a personal meeting to talk about it. Tatsuya
respectfully bowed to the image of Maya on the screen.
Tatsuya arrived at the main house of Yotsuba at 11:30. Hanabishi
Hyougo, who was sent to pick up Tatsuya, immediately led him inside
the main building.
In the canteen, where the name of the successor was announced on New
Year's Eve, everything was prepared for a joint dinner, but Maya was
not there yet. Now Tatsuya no longer feared the authority of Maya. But
he was pleased with the fact that he did not have to wait long for the
person at the highest level of power in the family.
Maya appeared five minutes after Tatsuya took his place.
"I'm sorry I made you wait."
"No, nothing like that."
Tatsuya got up from the chair, and bowed to Maya in the dining room.
"Clear."
Having received permission from the nod of the displeased Maya, Tatsuya sat

back on his chair.

Their places were opposite of each other. To make it easier to speak, the table
was replaced by a smaller one compared to one from New Year's Eve.

Behind Maya stood Hayama, and behind Tatsuya stood Hyougo.

On the signal of Hayama, the female maids entered the dining room and
put down the food.
It was not a full dinner, but only soup and some garnish, as to not disturb
the conversation.
"Eat, don't be shy."
"With your permission."
As directed by Maya, Tatsuya picked up his chopsticks. Still, all his
attention was directed to Maya.
"This time it was unexpected even for me.”
"For me, too."
So he wasn't embarrassed when she suddenly spoke to him.
"Tatsuya-san knew about him, didn't he?"
"Raymond Clark? Yes, but as I previously reported, we never
communicated directly."
After the parasite incident was resolved, Tatsuya gave Maya the details
of the case in a written report. The report also contained a complete
rehash of the case where Raymond Clark offered his assistance in
supplying information.
"I wonder if you could find out if there was a connection between
Raymond Clark and Edward Clark."
"Its hard to say exactly. Although he offered to help with information on
a permanent basis, I have since then not had any contact with him."
In that video message, Raymond said to Tatsuya, "I'll try and continue to
give you information that you can count as important." But he never
fulfilled that promise.
"I mean, did you forget about him?"
"In the sense that I didn't remember him, that's right. I only left the
existence of Hliðskjálf in the depths of my memory, but I had to study
the matter more seriously. I think Taurus Silver's identity was already
known to Raymond Clark at the time of contact, but I'm sorry I couldn't
catch him by surprise to reveal details about the tool he was using."
"...Well, this is the last thing, there's nothing to be done."
Maya's response sounded like some obscure hitch. Tatsuya thought,
(Come on.)
"As you say."
As a result, he just bowed, pretending to agree.
"There's one more question, Tatsuya-san."
But Maya, during this momentary confusion, seems to have realized
something important. She suddenly decided to change the subject.
"What did you do with your seal? I see it's been released."
"It was destroyed to increase my chances of victory against Juumonji-
dono."
Tatsuya did not panic and was not afraid, so he immediately gave a
direct answer to Maya's question. Besides, her question didn't sound like
a charge.
"Destroyed? Not released?"
Maya with doubt inquiringly bowed her head. Her face showed that she
doubted whether she had correctly heard.
"Yes. The vow itself was annulled." Tatsuya again answered Maya's
question without fear and hesitation.
"This was very reckless..." Maya said.
"He was not an opponent that could be defeated without recklessness."
"Couldn't you win even in a sealed state?"
There were signs of accusations in Maya's voice. But it was concern
about the recklessness of Tatsuya. For some reason, it was not a charge
of unwittingly withdrawing the vow.
"But since you really won, it wasn't a mistake."
"I'm sorry to bother you."
Tatsuya could not understand Maya's real intentions, so he just briefly
answered and bowed.
"So... It's time to move on to the main issue."
Was she satisfied with the answers, or was it just time? Maya urged
Tatsuya to explain the plan for "retaliation".
Tatsuya had not finished eating, but he temporarily put his chopsticks
down.
"I would like to get permission to hold a press conference in the main
office of FLT."
"Are you saying you're going to take it personally?"
Maya slightly rounded her eyes.
"Yes."
"And what, I wonder, are you going to say to the journalists?" Maya
asked, giving Tatsuya a curious look.
"I am going to announce a project of a plant for the processing of
oceanic water using the 'Stellar Furnace'."
"'Stellar Furnace'? You mean the thermonuclear reactor you developed a
sequence of magic of constant gravitational control for? What is this
project?"
"The Extraction of both useful and harmful Substances from the Coastal
Area of the Pacific Ocean using the Energy produced by the Stellar
Furnace (extract both useful and harmful Substances from the Coastal
area of the Pacific using Electricity generated by Stellar-Generator). The
first letters of the basic words were taken from this phrase, and the
abbreviation "project ESCAPES" was made."
Now, for the first time Tatsuya first revealed his true goal to Maya.
"...This is quite interesting. Tatsuya-san plans to achieve the creation of
an independent State for magicians with this 'project ESCAPES'?"
"I did not plan to separate from the country. To cover all necessary
necessities of life is unrealistic to be done by magicians alone."
"You won't even require autonomy status?"
"I think that this will be of little use, even if the government is too
stimulating."
"You don't have a childish way of thinking."
Maya hid her mouth with her hand and narrowed eyes. But the
expression on her face made it clear that she was silently laughing, but
to Tatsuya, it was clear that it was not from a bad impression.
"It will be sufficient for me that the rights of magicians, guaranteed by
public foundations, will indeed be protected."
"To get the government to implement this. That is Tatsuya-san’s purpose
for this, isn't it?"
"Yes. Although I do not deny the possibility of obtaining real autonomy
as a means to implement this."
Unable to tolerate any more, Maya laughed out loud.
"...Right. But I am sure that the general public will be against such a
regime of governance as autonomy."
Maya laughed more, and then looked Tatsuya straight in the eye.
"I understand Tatsuya-san’s plan. I see that you have thought this
through enough to succeed."
Tatsuya understood the meaning of Maya's words when she only marked
herself by saying, "I see."
"Does that mean that the opinions of Aunt alone will not be enough to
allow this?"
"Yes, it does. But not in the sense that we need approval from all the
side branches."
Tatsuya silently stared at Maya's eyes, waiting for her to continue.
"It concerns sponsors, especially close to our Yotsuba family."
"Is it about His Excellency Toudou? Although I only know his name..."
"Ara, you're right."
Maya was a little surprised, but immediately nodded with an emotional
smile on her face.
"Then the conversation will be short."
Maya wet her throat with green tea. When she returned the cup to the
table, Hayama immediately replaced a new one for her.
"The conditions are that Tatsuya-san has to explain to His Excellency
Toudou what we have just discussed, and to get his permission to do so.
I'll arrange a meeting with His Excellency."
"Understood. I'm sorry to bother you."
Without showing any apprehension, Tatsuya bowed in a sign of consent.
"But since we need to make some preparations at FLT, let's define an
action plan. How about Friday, in four days, at 10 o'clock in the
morning?"
"I don't have any plans, so I don't mind."
After all these events, Tatsuya’s schedule, as a student, a developer, and
as a special officer, was empty. He therefore accepted in an instant to
Maya’s proposal.
"The press conference will be postponed if His Excellency will not be
able to meet in the near future. And if you can't get His Excellency's
consent, it will be canceled."
"This is inevitable, I understand."
"Yes."
Maya nodded with a smile, looking at the demonstration of submission
by Tatsuya.
As soon as the meeting with Maya was over, Tatsuya went back to the
villa in Izu. He originally did not plan to stay there, but no one was going
to hold him.
Since the new year the attitude of the servants to Tatsuya has changed a
lot. However, due to the fact that he was seldomly in the main house,
respect was extremely scant.
"...Tatsuya-san does not seem to care at all."
Sitting in her office, which was her "personal space", Maya unwittingly
said part of her thoughts aloud.
The nearby Hayama heard her words.
But he didn't comment on the muttering Maya, and just put a cup of tea
in front of her.
"Hayama-san..."
"Yes, Madam?"
Although by Maya's voice it was possible to think that she was talking to
herself, but Hayama answered her calling voice without panic or
confusion.
"What do you think about it... About what Tatsuya-san told us?"
"Speaking of the story of Tatsuya, do you mean the question of the vow?
Or is it about the press conference?"
"I speak about both questions... Right, first I'd like to hear Hayama-san's
opinion about the abolishment of the Vow."
"Yes, indeed... In my humble opinion, this will not cause any particular
problems."
"The vow itself was removed, but there will be no problems?"
Maya asked Hayama with unconcealed surprise in her voice.
"With all due respect, but was not the role of the Vow completed when
Tatsuya became the groom of the next Head-sama?"
"But wasn’t his seal intended to insure obedience to the Yotsuba
family?"
"I know. But madam. I dare say it rudely, but you seriously think that it
is necessary to fear the current Tatsuya’s magic going out of control?"
"A complete vow withdrawal. This means that Tatsuya can now at any
given time, 24 hours a day show all 100% of his magical abilities. This
means that he can freely use Material Burst."
"Initially Tatsuya’s power was sealed out of fear of uncontrollable
activation of Material Burst."
Anger, sadness, hatred, if only one of these arises and the boy could in
turn instantly attack any point of the world with magic, the destructive
power of which surpasses any strategic nuclear missile. Even if the Earth
itself is not destroyed, all sentient beings on it will be easily destroyed.
And people are no exception.
To prevent such a situation, the Yotsuba family sealed the force of
Tatsuya.
But the seal was not complete. The Yotsuba family did not renounce the
power with which only one person can confront the whole world.
They valued this power.
By conducting a pre-determined procedure, Tatsuya could temporarily
gain the ability to use the Material Burst at his own discretion.
The seal of the vow was needed to prevent the impulsive use of
destructive magic by Tatsuya, regardless of his intentions. It was
installed in case he could not control his magic.
But the vow connected not only Tatsuya’s magic abilities.
The binding spell on Tatsuya was designed to use the magic power of
Miyuki. To keep the power of Tatsuya sealed, so the vow consumed a
large amount of Miyuki’s power.
The vow is not needed when Tatsuya can hold his magic under the
control of his will.
"We can say that the vow was not 'not necessary', but rather a harmful
thing that reduced the fighting power of the Yotsuba family, suppressing
the forces of two powerful magicians, Tatsuya and Miyuki."
Maya received from Hayama a rather unexpected opinion, and could not
immediately answer it.
"The ability of Tatsuya in the management of magic is such that it
competes for first or second place in the entire Yotsuba. We can say that
it is the highest level in the whole world."
"...Right. At least he's taller than me."
Hayama neither confirmed nor refuted Maya’s assessment.
"As long as no misfortune comes to Miyuki-sama, the magic of Tatsuya-
sama will not get out of control."
"And if something happens to Miyuki-san, the vow will not stop the riot
of magic... that is what Hayama-san is trying to say?"
"You're right. Therefore, I believe that the Yotsuba family should protect
Miyuki-sama by any means. I apologize for my cheeky words."
"I understand, this is clearly a fact."
Maya reached for a cup of tea, but halfway removed her hand and sighed
deeply.
"To have so much force, indeed, troublesome. If we want to use it, after
all, it will be abusive of us. And if we want to isolate it, we won't be able
to ignore it anyway."
"We cannot say that there is no threat. To compromise, to betray
oblivion, or surrender? If we do not use the force that is the source of the
threat, then surrendering to the enemy is only a temporary solution."
"You're right, Hayama-san. As long as the enemy is not devoid of
strength, surrender is not a solution. But if this force is inseparable from
the enemy's essence, there is no other choice but to destroy it."
"But this is only in case you can't compromise, right?"
"It is the common opinion that the search for a compromise is one of the
options for postponing problems... But in our case it will be quite
difficult, wouldn't it? Because the threat of this magic is exposed to all
countries of the world."
"Do you think that there will be people planning to kill Tatsuya-sama?"
While Hayama asked, he replaced the contents of the tea cup.
"I think that there are already some forces that have reached the phase of
practical execution."
Taking the cup in hand, Maya said this before touching her lips.
"This is a pretty big deal."
Maya lateral vision caught the expression on Hayama’s face. Contrary to
Maya's expectations, Hayama was not smiling. Maya felt that she should
somehow change the subject.
"But Tatsuya-san can't be killed, can he?"
"I think so. Tatsuya is almost immortal. However, Miyuki is not."
Maya put the tea cup on the table so abruptly that there was a loud
ringing.
"...What happens if Miyuki-san falls from an assassination attempt
aimed at Tatsuya-san?"
"I believe that the people of the Yotsuba family should try to avoid this
possibility by any means."
After answering Hayama, Maya plunged into silence.
"Miyuki is protected by Tatsuya like no other. Even now when they are
in different places, this is not a hindrance to Tatsuya. Tatsuya’s
protection is effective from any distance."
Magical ability that can dissipate the very essence of magic, that is his
sequence of magic.
And another ability that can cancel fatal injuries until the person has
died.
Maya felt relieved when she reminded herself that Miyuki was safe
because she was protected by Tatsuya.
But it is obvious that Tatsuya is not all-powerful.
The victory against Juumonji Katsuto was not easy.
Tatsuya was unable to neutralize the protective version of the Phalanx.
He is able to dispel any sequence of magic, but that does not mean that
he can neutralize any potential magic.
To defeat Katsuto, Tatsuya had to use a physical attack in the form of a
neutron beam.
It is impossible to stop that neutron beam, because simultaneously with
irradiation, the use of a neutron barrier is impossible. But you can
evade it. In addition, "Baryon Lance" is a magic that puts a lot of strain
on Tatsuya’s magic calculation area, so if it is dodged, it creates a
serious gap in his defense.
Tatsuya himself will never die, no matter how he is attacked. However,
it is not accurate to say that there will be no cases of such an attack,
from which he won’t be able to protect Miyuki, because this will cause
fatal trauma against him. Perhaps a magician capable of making such
an attack exists somewhere in this world.
No, not "perhaps." Tatsuya received heavy damage, losing one hand
from the cannon of charged particles from Angie Sirius... Although with
modern regenerative medicine, he would eventually recover even without
his superpower "Regrowth".
In addition, Tatsuya was unable to neutralize "Tuman Bomba" in the
Soya Strait. And the reason was not because he was remotely kneeling
from the base of Kasumigaura. Also, he would have been defeated by
Katsuto if he hadn't prepared Baryon Lance in advance.
"...Hayama-san wants to say that the protection of Tatsuya-san leads to
the protection of Miyuki-san, and that, in addition leads to the fact that
the magic of Tatsuya-san will not get out of control?"
"I think that even in a sealed state, Tatsuya will never be defeated.
However, does the limitation of Tatsuya-sama’s power, limiting his
ability to protect Miyuki-sama not contradict the original goal to prevent
the rampage of Material Burst?"
"True... You may be right, Hayama-san."
Maya relaxed her shoulders and leaned back in the chair.
"If you consider the ability of Tatsuya-san, who does not allow his magic
to go out of control, the limitation of force can be said to give a reverse
effect."
Hayama respectfully bowed to Maya.
"Well. I give my permission to destroy the Vow."
Not "Ignore", but "Allow".
Hayama slightly raised his eyebrows with surprise.
"Mitsugu-san and Touka-san may raise some noise on this, but if that
goes too far, I'll talk to them myself to convince them."
"As you will. I will try not to bother Madame with this question as much
as possible."
"Yes, thank you."
Thus, Maya and Hayama finished with the topic of allowing the removal
of Tatsuya's seal.
"By the way, what do you think about 'Project ESCAPES'?"
"It's amazing."
After hearing Hayama’s voice filled with unexpected emotions, Maya
turned to him in surprise. The person standing next to Maya, Hayama,
looked the same as his words indicated.
"You really appreciate it, don't you?"
"Project Dione by Edward Clark was an idealistic project that the
responsible magician has difficulty resisting."
"...Indeed, it is difficult to go against what is positioned as the dream of
all mankind."
If humankind adheres to the current growth rate, it will sooner or later be
faced with problems such as limited space on earth and a lack of
resources. A plan to address this issue has been presented.
It was stated that this requires the power of magic, and it is impossible to
refuse cooperation. Even if it is necessary to sacrifice the lives of
magicians, if they renounce it, they will be called traitors of humanity.
Regardless of the success or failure of the project.
"However, Tatsuya’s project itself demonstrates another solution. Let it
be fair, it direct opposes the plan of Edward Clark."
"As for its grandiosity, the plan of Tatsuya-san is a couple of steps
inferior to 'Project Dione'."
Maya seemed to think Hayama overestimated the proposed plan by
Tatsuya. So she ironically objected to the words of Hayama.
"I mean, it's more realistic."
But Hayama did not praise the plan of Tatsuya in a burst of feelings.
"It seems that capital owners prefer to invest in cases that show more
realistic prospects."
It seems that he first of all assessed the effectiveness of the plan as a
means of retaliation.
"...Theoretically, this is the case..."
With a slight sense of unwillingness to admit her defeat, Maya agreed
with the opinion of Hayama.
"As Madam said, the chance of success of a fairy tale, which is a pipe
dream, is rather low. But it benefits from the power of persuasion from
the assistance provided by other countries."
"It would be good if His Excellency decides the same."
"Can Tatsuya persuade Toudou Aoba? It all depends on whether Tatsuya
can overcome this deadlock."
"By the way, Madam."
This time Hayama changed the subject, not answering the muttering
Maya.
"What is it?"
"As I mentioned before, I do not think that a compromise is impossible."
"...For the question of the Tatsuya-san’s magic threatening the whole
world?"
"Yes. Tatsuya-sama earlier said that he did not deny the possibility of
getting magicians themselves. If Tatsuya-sama will act not individually,
but on an equal basis with representatives of the State, there will be no
need for compromise."

On the same day, when a mysterious man revealed the identity of Taurus
Silver.
From that very morning the media stormed the entrance of First high.
Classes started earlier than usual, so there would be no pupils caught on
the way to school, who would be surrounded and have microphones
waved before them. But by the beginning of the second lesson, both the
main and service gates were completely crammed with the employees of
various mass media companies.
The reporters requested materials on Tatsuya, but the school rejected all
requests.
Given the importance of protecting the privacy of the minor, as he did
not commit anything illegal, this is normal even though he did not attend
school.
Despite the refusal to issue information, the media did not give up. No,
that seems to have been unimportant from the start, whether the school
will allow it or not. Even when the morning half of the classes ended,
and a lunch break came, a crowd of journalists still captivated the whole
neighborhood around the school.
"They're still here..."
"It seems even more of them have shown up."
On the words of Izumi, who was watching the main gate of the school
from the window of the school board, an exhausted voice from Kasumi
answered her, also observing the situation on the street.
"The back gate is full of reporters..." added Honoka with a timid voice.
She could see the situation outside, sitting in her place, because she
directed the light rays to her field of view. In fact, it was a violation of
school rules for using unauthorized magic, but here and now no one was
going to complain.
"It's going to be a problem when everyone goes home from school." A
frowning Miyuki murmured.
"Should we call the police?"
Miyuki slightly shook her head at the offer of Shizuku.
"Let the teachers think about it. We cannot make such decisions
ourselves."
"Understood."
It was just a fleeting idea, and Shizuku didn't cling to it.
"But President, I think we will not be able to reach our house safely only
by our efforts..." with a helpless expression on her face, Shiina turned to
Miyuki.
If Saburou was here, he wouldn't have any qualms to say something like,
"I will protect you," to cheer Shiina up, but it looks like he was having
trouble communicating with the school board, so he stayed away from
the room.
When Shiina said, "only by her own efforts," she naturally hinted that
they would not use magic. Theoretically, magic can be used for self-
defense. But the definition of the legality of using magic for self-defense
was greatly hampered. If press freedom is used as a shield, even though
they are minors, the likelihood that the use of magic is legitimate will be
rather low. For so-called "experts" there was still a deep rooted evil,
which sees "journalism" as something sacred.
Miyuki, apparently, also feared this situation.
"We need to think about some countermeasures." She answered with a
serious expression of her face.
Needless to say, the First High School was not the only place where the
media was. Many reporters also crowded near the work place of Taurus
Silver, the office of Four Leaves Technology. There were a lot of
reporters, openly recording everything on camera, because there was no
need to pay attention to the privacy of minors. If they were not involved
in the media, they could be suspected of interfering in official business.
However, after noon a break came to this frantic activity to gather
information.
But it happened not because common sense woke up in the journalists
and reporters.
Two o'clock in the afternoon. The media received a response from FLT
with the consent to provide information.
"...In four days we will hold a press conference by Taurus Silver. It will
be held on Friday at 10 o'clock in the morning in this building on the first
floor, so today we ask you to leave. Those who do not leave this place
will be refused to visit the press conference.
In addition, if there are complaints about the collection of information
not only from the staff of our firm, but also from students of the First
Magic High School, the attendant will also be refused to visit."
After a young office worker in charge of public relations appeared, a
loud voice announced the decision, immediately among the press there
were those who objected to it. In general, they only, in varying degrees,
expressed frustration, but the reason behind the shouting was roughly the
same.
"This is a violation of press freedom!"
It was a boilerplate phrase. However unexpected it was, the journalists
stopped their onslaught.
They probably thought about what would happen if the press conference
was canceled if they were going to have a riot.
Most reporters realized that instead of trying to set up other companies, it
would be better to secure their share at the same time.
The journalists gathered in the main office of FLT, exchanging informal
phrases with each other, eventually dispersing, without causing any
disturbance.
The office of the Development manager at FLT headquarters. This room
was the personal office of Tatsuya and Miyuki’s Father, Shiba Tatsurou.
Nominally, Tatsurou was the largest shareholder and had a luxury office,
which was even bigger than the director of the company.
In this room Tatsurou now received a representative of the true owners of
FLT, sent from the main house of the Yotsuba.
"Good work in counteracting the media."
A young man who was about 25 years old, though thanking Tatsurou
with a polite tone, seemed to be looking down on him.
"No, I just gave a couple of instructions to public relations."
Tatsurou could not fail to feel disgusted by the fact that he must obey
some guy, who is 20 years younger than him. But he didn't show this in
any way.
Regardless of who the representative is, Tatsurou did not have the
courage to show disobedience to the main family here.
"How humble. But it was a pretty fine solution to the issue. Please
continue in the same vein and make the necessary preparations so that
there are no extra problems on Friday."
"You can rely on me."
"Excellent. Good day, then."
Nodding, Hanabishi Hyougo wanted to leave the office.
"...I'd like to ask you something."
When he had already turned around to go to the exit, Tatsurou hesitated
to call him.
"What is it?" Hyougo asked, turning with a slight smile on his face.
Tatsurou averted his eyes from Hyougo’s face. He did not ask Tatsurou
to hurry up and waited silently. When the second hand of the clock
managed to make half a turn, Tatsurou finally overcame his hesitation
and spoke.
"What is the main family planning to do with this child?"
"'This child?' Maybe you're talking about Tatsuya."
Tatsurou’s lips trembled, and he could not answer the question of
Hyougo. It was as if his throat and tongue were unable to work
adequately now.
"So it is about him? Sorry, but since I'm a young and an inexperienced
beginner, I can't figure out what thoughts our head has on him."
In this polite tone, there was a contempt that said "you're even lower
than this rookie." Tatsurou figured it out and started to get out of it.
"In addition, Tatsuya-sama is the groom of the next Head-sama.
Tatsurou-dono, with your role, it's not something that you should care
about."
"B-but I am his father!"
Tatsurou raised his voice maybe because he neglected the feelings of the
parent to the child, or because he could not endure humiliation.
"I know that. What's the matter?"
But whatever he answered, Hyougo did not give meaning to the words of
Tatsurou.
"When it was decided that Miyuki-sama will be the next head, and
Tatsuya-sama will become her fiancé, the role of Tatsurou-dono was
fulfilled. Isn't that good?"
"W-what..."
"I thought Tatsurou-dono didn't like Tatsuya-sama? But now you don't
have to behave like a parent or a child anymore?"
Tatsurou could not object to Hyougo.
"Then, I will give one piece of advice. Miyuki is your daughter, but
Tatsuya is not your son. The real mother of Tatsuya-sama is our head-
sama. And the real father of Tatsuya--is not you, Tatsurou-dono."
This was the story that Maya invented to marry Tatsuya and Miyuki. But
now everything went to the fact that this lie will become the truth.
"If Tatsurou-dono showed his love as the parent of Tatsuya-san, the main
family would respect that bonds. But you rejected Tatsuya. The current
relationship should be what Tatsurou-dono wanted."
Tatsurou had no arguments. He could not object to what Hyougo said.

The number of people surrounding First High school was significantly

reduced by the end of the afternoon half of the lessons. But about half of
them still remained at that time.
This does not mean that they have abandoned their collection of
information.
This was due to the fact that the employee of FLT voiced the threat
"Those who cause problems for First High School will not be permitted
to attend the press conference."
In other words, almost half of journalists and reporters did not succumb
to these threats. Perhaps most of them just didn't get the instructions
associated with it.
Despite the fact that their number was halved, it was still enough to scare
the students.
This time there were no magicians among the crowd of journalists
around of First High. For students of First High, capable of using magic,
it was strange to fear "ordinary people", unable to use magic. Or at least
the most "ordinary people" thought so.
Indeed, if the Students of First High use all their power, if they "commit
an act of violence", they could easily throw away all these journalists.
But as a result, they will be declared criminals and expelled from society.
But even if it is so successful that they are not blamed now, it is easy to
imagine a future in which they are afraid, hated and suspended from
society.
The school students understood that they had no other choice but to live
in human society. It was a fear of 'pen violence' that could take away
their future, where they live peacefully as members of society.
"We can't just break through with force, right?"
"Kasumi-chan, don't say such dangerous phrases."
"That's why I asked if we can't."
Answering Izumi, Kasumi again looked at the open space in front of the
school gates. They stood at the beginning of a straight road leading from
the school yard to the school gate. They hid from the journalists behind a
tree and looked at the situation outside.
"Is... Ah, Miyuki-sempai."
Noticing Miyuki coming out of the school building, Izumi interrupted the
conversation with Kasumi. Kasumi continued to watch the media, and
Shiina, hidden behind these two, timidly looked at the situation outside,
but after the words of Izumi they looked towards the school building.
"Miyuki-Sempai, how are you doing?" Izumi asked when Miyuki, who
was accompanied by Minami, approached a distance close enough for
dialogue.
"Unfortunately, the director wants to avoid police intervention."
In the voice of Miyuki, responding to Izumi, there was no pity, but a
confession that everything turned out as everyone thought. The point was
that the school did not plan to deal with the media.
"Then do we have to be obedient to the hands of the reporters...?"
Shiina, who had such a face as if she was now crying, was anxiously
asking Miyuki.
"I think that people from the media will not do anything wrong..."
The voice of Miyuki lacked confidence. Honest reporters will not use
force. But among these reporters could well be present fanatical
supporters of the anti-magic movement.
"Miyuki."
Honoka, who was going to them through the school yard, called Miyuki.
Followed by Shizuku and Mikihiko.
"Honoka, how's the back gate?"
"Bad. The crowd is such that you cannot slip through."
"There are even people among them who feel clearly evil. In my opinion,
it would be better to not use the rear gate." Mikihiko added after
Honoka’s answer. Shizuku nodded in support of the words of Mikihiko.
"President."
The Chairman of the club management group Igarashi, as well as
Tomitsuka, Takuma and Saburou, who was not supposed to have a
connection with the club management group, approached from the
opposite side of Honoka.
"Chairman Igarashi."
Miyuki turned around, hearing the voice of Igarashi. Despite the fact that
they are already been familiar enough, Igarashi froze.
Tomitsuka, who was more resistant to the beauty of Miyuki than
Igarashi, spoke instead of him. But the one worried most of all here was
not Tomitsuka and Takuma, but Saburo. He did not even look towards
Miyuki, but immediately rushed to Shiina, asking, "Are you alright?".
"We have notified all clubs about the termination of activity. Everyone
should now be ready to go home at any time."
"Thank you for your work." Miyuki responded with gratitude to
Tomitsuka’s report.
"But what do we do, President? Even if we go home with the whole
crowd, students will still be caught... Maybe we should mobilize the
guys from the sports clubs to build walls."
"You can't make living shields out of fellow students. That is gender
discrimination, Shippou-kun." Miyuki politely rejected the kind guys
idea of Takuma.
Shizuku considered Takuma’s offer "A good idea", so showed a
dissatisfied look at the words of Miyuki. But among those who did not
support the idea of Takuma, there were no other ideas, and all sent their
views to Miyuki in the hope of receiving further guidance.
Miyuki deeply sighed, seeing that she was being given the views of her
classmates standing in the school yard, hiding behind the alley trees so
that they could not be seen from the school gates.
But instead of complaining about them, she resigned herself to the idea
of "nothing can be done."
"... I'll talk to them."
"You, Miyuki-Sempai!" Izumi shouted with surprise.
"Yes. I'll ask the media people to go home."
"Thats dangerous!"
"I'm against this idea, too."
After Izumi, Shizuku also tried to stop Miyuki. Since Shizuku was not as
overexcited as Izumi, she was more convincing for Miyuki.
"I don't want to do it myself, but can I just stand here and do nothing?
I'm the President of the school board."
"But Miyuki and Tatsuya-san have a special relationship."
"Right. That's why I should."
"It’s the opposite."
"The opposite?"
"They have certainly studied the available data and know that Miyuki is
the former sister and now bride of Tatsuya-san. It would not be difficult
for the media to find out."
Shizuku gave an unusually long speech for her in talkativeness. She
probably felt the impending danger that Miyuki would come out to the
reporters.
"Do you realize that's not normal? If it aggravates the situation, it will
not only be your problem, Miyuki."
"... Are you saying this could lead to a worsening of the reputation of all
magicians in general?"
"I do not want to admit it, but the probability of this is not equal to zero."
Miyuki’s mood worsened. In a sense, she was guilty of her engagement
to Tatsuya.
Although Shizuku noticed this, she was not going to retreat. But Honoka
and Mikihiko, standing nearby, were very nervous.
"Your sense of responsibility Miyuki can be understood. But this time it
is better to stop."
Kitayama Ushio, father of Shizuku, is the owner of a large group of
companies. When it came to Ushio, even the media hampered, and calls
for open attacks became rare. But he was always cautious in
counteracting the media.
Perhaps it was because of her father's image that she could not consider
it. It seems that Shizuku assessed the power of the media so high that
she was the most afraid out of anyone present here.
"Even if you say so..."
Now it is a situation where nothing can be done. Of course, Miyuki was
going to continue with her initial idea. But she suddenly sent her gaze
behind the backs of the reporters, and froze in that position.
"...Miyuki-Sempai?"
Ignoring the voice of Izumi, Miyuki continued to look in that direction,
with round eyes. The voice of Izumi simply did not reach her
consciousness.
Feeling amiss, everyone looked where Miyuki looked. Carefully coming
closer, the rest also realized that a car is approaching.
"Is that really...?" Honoka muttered. She's not the only one who knew
who was approaching in this car.
Suddenly Miyuki tried to run to the school gate. But Minami stopped
her, grabbing her arm from behind.
Miyuki was surprised. She regained her self-control, and she realized
that she had forgotten her sensibilities. Miyuki smiled at Minami, and
she let go of her hand and bowed.
Miyuki went calmly and Minami followed her.
Honoka and Shizuku, Kasumi and Izumi, Shiina and Saburou, each pair
exchanged views, and they all went after Miyuki and Minami.
The last ones left were Mikihiko, Tomitsuka and Takuma, who
remained in the school yard without going out to the gate.

The journalists, reporters and operators gathered at the school gates

noticed the approach of the electric vehicle and freed the road.
Recently, the police liked to arrest people for obstructing road traffic.
Although this is a minor violation, it clearly is an illegal act, so it will be
difficult for the media to file a complaint.
If they are lucky, they can get inside when the electric car enters.
They had such assumptions.
The electric car stopped in front of the school gates.
With a little delay after that, from the other side of the gate came Miyuki
and the rest. Few of the reporters and journalists noticed them. The man
who came out of the electric vehicle caused a lot of noise among the
mass media representatives.
"...Why...?"
Swallowing the phrase "Onii-sama", Miyuki said only that. The one who
came out of the electric vehicle’s driver’s seat was Tatsuya.
"You are Shiba Tatsuya-san, aren't you?"
For media representatives, the appearance of Tatsuya now was quite
unexpected. Tatsuya was dressed in the uniform of First High and did
not use any means of disguise or concealment of his face. If it was a
reporter who had already studied data on Tatsuya, he would have
unerringly recognized him by his appearance. But by the tone of the
reporter, who first spoke to Tatsuya, it was evident that he doubted
himself.
"Yes, it is."
Tatsuya answered in a calm voice. He had a natural tone of voice, and he
had no impression that he was pretending not to understand what was
going on.
"...Is it true that you are Taurus silver?"
The reporter for a moment was discouraged by this imperturbability,
which showed that most likely, an interview will not work, but he
quickly pulled himself together and demonstrated his excellent ability to
be arrogant.
"I thought we had already talked to the press?"
Tatsuya’s response was neither "Yes" nor "no".
"On Friday in the main office of FLT, a press conference will be held by
Taurus Silver. If in doubt, go ask yourself."
The voice of Tatsuya was loud enough to be heard not only by reporters,
surrounded with microphones, but also by everyone else. Including from
the farthest ranges. Including even those who stood on the other side of
the closed school gates.
"A press conference? They decided to do it..."
The mumbling that came from Mikihiko was half admiring and half
shocked.
Miyuki stood motionless with wide open eyes, and covered her mouth
with her hand.
Tatsuya looked at Miyuki. Even if he hadn't heard the voice of Mikihiko,
he already knew that Miyuki and the rest were behind the gate.
"Please clear the way."
Tatsuya appealed to a group of journalists huddled around the gates of
the school. He did not shout and did not even speak with an elevated
voice. This voice has absolutely no pressure.
But despite this, the surrounding journalists and reporters retreated back,
standing unsolidly on their feet.
But some of them still remained standing before Tatsuya, blushing with
shame for their weakness.
"So you're Taurus Silver!"
"Excuse me, who are you?"
Tatsuya responded with an indifferent voice to this allegation.
"What?"
It seems that his question for the Bonin journalist was something
unexpected. However, he looked foolish only for a few seconds, then he
came to himself, and he proudly announced the name of one of the major
newspaper on which he works.
"Clear. But if you're not a single journalist, you should have heard from
your company."
"What was there to hear!?"
The journalist was about 30 years old. Of course, he did not like that a
young guy who is younger than him by more than 10 years, behaving so
unsuitable. He asked Tatsuya in an aggressive manner.
In the eyes of Tatsuya, looking at this journalist, there was no irritation,
no anger, no contempt, no pity. In other words, it was a sight equivalent
to looking at someone on the side of the road.
Seeing this view, the journalist did not fall into the frenzy, but trembled.
The journalist looked at Tatsuya like he was a creepy creature belonging
to another species. If someone had met a harmless man, but then found
out that the man was actually different from him, he would have had a
similar view, as the journalist now.
"Those organizations that receive complaints about interrogating
students from First High will be denied admission to the Taurus Silver
press conference. FLT should have alerted them."
A wave of confusion spread to the press officers gathered here.
Apparently, half of those present didn't even hear what Tatsuya said.
"It's only four days. I think waiting so long will not be considered a
violation of the freedom of the press."
The words of Tatsuya did not convince the journalists. But stubborn
objections did not follow.
Because before they started swearing, they heard a loud clap.
This clap was the sound of a shot. A scream from one of the female
reporters followed.
The reporter that interrogated Tatsuya fell, landing on his ass. Tatsuya
noticed that someone was going to shoot, so he pushed the reporter out
of the trajectory of the bullet.
Tatsuya stood with his back to the journalist. As if in slow motion, he
instantly turned around and caught the bullet with his hand.
After that he pried his left hand open. A pistol bullet fell out of it.
Reporters standing next to Tatsuya froze, looking at this scene. Some of
the reporters noticed that Tatsuya was wearing black gloves, but it still
didn't explain anything. Even if you wear high-performance bulletproof
gloves, they won't catch a bullet.
The crowd of journalists, reporters and operators turned chaotic.
People with panicking cries tried to escape from the killer with a pistol,
resulting in them crushing each other. Some stumbled and fell, but the
rest, whether they were comrades or rivals, were fleeing and just
trampled and kicked the fallen.
The killer didn't even look at the runaway reporters. His bloodshot eyes
looked only at Tatsuya.
Clutching a pistol in his hand, he kept shooting at Tatsuya There were
sounds of several shots in a row. Tatsuya caught all the flying bullets.
Needless to say, this was not a simple trick.
Releasing the magic of Decomposition in all directions, Tatsuya did not
destroy the bullets themselves, rather he dispelled their momentum
(vector) moving it forward.
By the way, if you try to Decompose too much, then at the point of
exposure, an reverse-acting force occurs. This will not reduce the
damage caused by the bullet and would not lessen its momentum.
But from the beginning, it is necessary to mention, that decomposition of
the impulse of a flying bullet without application of external influence is
not a physical "phenomenon". The
"Information" that the "bullet pulse dissipates" existed not only at the
point of impact, but also in the entire surrounding space. As a result, the
bullets that flew toward the palm of Tatsuya had already practically
stopped.
But the essence of this could only be felt by magicians. Hid amongst the
journalists, the terrorist from the anti-magic movement panicked, seeing
with his own eyes such a physically impossible phenomenon as a man
"Catching bullets".
Even after the shutter stopped moving back (that is, the rounds ended),
he still kept Tatsuya in sight and continued to pull the trigger
convulsively.
Tatsuya did not try to grab the terrorist, though he clearly lost his mind
and had plenty of open places to attack. This was because he wanted to
show the journalists and reporters that he was being attacked, not the
other way around.
Tatsuya’s eyes looked at the clown senselessly pulling the trigger, but his
consciousness was vigilant against possible accomplices. But at this
point there were no signs of the appearance of other attackers.
Looks like it was a single criminal. Coming to this conclusion, Tatsuya
went to this terrorist.
The man released bizarre cry. It is not known whether it was possible to
call it a cry, because the people who did not see this man, would confuse
it with howling stray dog. or the "Howling of an injured person" *.
[“Loser, Loser, loser, loser” such words were used. But literally it translates to "Losing
dog". In English, there is also an analogue with a similar value: "Underdog ".]
Tatsuya made the second step, walking with the usual walking gait.
The man threw the gun at Tatsuya, when the magazine was empty.
Tatsuya did not even shirk, and the gun just flew past him.
Already shouting something more similar to the human language, the
terrorist put his right hand in his pocket and took out a short knife.
It was the so-called Bonder Knife, where the grip of the blade was in the
hand while the blade protrudes forward out of the fist. Wearing this was
completely illegal, but after using a gun it was silly to think about this.
Although he had a short blade, the length was enough to kill a man.
Nevertheless, Tatsuya made the third step, completely ignoring this
blade.
Taking another step, they would have been at arm's length between them.
But this last step was made by this man, a terrorist. He poised a stab at
Tatsuya's belly.
Although it was a surprise for him that it was not to his face, he dodged
the blow, going to the right. At the same time he grabbed the left hand of
the man behind the wrist with his right hand and pulled it, returning his
body back.
The man lost his balance and fell.
At this point, finally, a guard working for First High appeared. He
slightly opened the gate and climbed into the resulting gap. Naturally,
there were no crazy journalists, who decided to take advantage of such a
chance to get in to the territory of the school.
The guard rushed into place. Prior to the arrival of the guard Tatsuya
stood there, stepping on the compressive bonder knife in the right hand
of the man.
Among the concerned media staff, there was a noise of voices trying to
understand what had happened.
"Was that magic just now?"
"There is no way."
Talk about this thought was heard from different directions. Everyone
was surprised by the fact that Tatsuya caught a criminal without magic.
In fact, he used magic when catching the bullets, but the sensors
available to those people were unable to detect the magic of Tatsuya.
This magician was catching bullets, not using magic, and defused a man
with a knife without getting any wounds. Reporters, operators and
journalists were all frozen and stood there, unable to understand.
Tatsuya took advantage of this hitch, going into the school gates and
brought Miyuki and Minami to the car. He seated them on the rear seats,
sat down on the driver's seat, and drove away. The reporters reflexively
disembarked from the road, letting them pass.
"...Onii-sama, when did you get the right?"
Miyuki had a lot of things to ask, but the first thing she asked was a
relatively unimportant question.
There are also other conditions for obtaining driving rights in addition to
reaching the age of 18. But unlike in past times, there is now an
opportunity to circumvent these limitations. If there is a need to perform
work duties, and there is a guarantee from the employer, then, as in the
case of the rights to a motorcycle, the right to control a car can be
obtained after the completion of compulsory education.
For example, Katsuto got the right to manage a conventional car
immediately after admission to First High, under the pretext of the need
to work in a construction company managed by the Juumonji family.
These rights are only necessary for driving, for passenger they are not
needed. However, the certification exam is much more difficult than
usual.
Tatsuya did not use this exception. His work as Taurus Silver is a secret
(now we can already say "was a secret"), so he could not fulfill the
condition of "Employer's guarantee".
He got it right after he moved to Izu. After all, the machine is much more
convenient in most cases.
"I didn't even know... You could have told me. Onii-sama is so
secretive."
"Ha-ha, I'm sorry."
Tatsuya turned to the cute, resentful Miyuki, and apologized. Of course,
he could afford to do this because the car was driving on autopilot. After
such a minded response, Miyuki finally felt relieved.
"...But why did you come to pick me up? Why take the risk and appear
before the media?"
"Because I thought that Miyuki, as the President of the School Council,
would not be able to resist any action. I couldn't afford to burden you
with such tedious things."
"Onii-sama…"
Miyuki, as usual, made an enthusiastic face, and on Minami’s face was a
completely disappointed expression.
"So, what was your real goal?"
When Miyuki asked about the real intentions of Tatsuya, her voice was
still slightly intoxicated with delight. Minami’s eyes opened wide and
blinked because she was frightened by the loud sound of a dove.
She did not expect that Miyuki would doubt the words of Tatsuya.
"That hurt. I didn't lie."
Unlike the contents of the phrase, the voice of Tatsuya was cheerful.
"But it's not just that, is it?"
Miyuki also spoke with a smile, but she did not feel deceived at all.
"I had a goal to warn the media. To tell them, that if they will continue
to be unceremoniously here and sniff around, then in the future they will
not be able to receive important information. Another goal was also to
show that I am not afraid of the media. But the main thing was getting
rid of the troubles that bothered First High, and thus to reduce the load
on the Miyuki."
"...I got it. Now I understand."
Implying in the answer that she "did not understand anything ", Miyuki
just gave up.
As expected by Tatsuya, the reporters surrounding First High
disappeared. It can't be said that it was "fast", but 30 minutes after
Tatsuya’s electric car left, all reporters and journalists had already
dispersed.
There were no reporters who pretended to be gone, and hid themselves
to catch the passing pupils to pry for information. Therefore, pupils of
First High (and working staff) were able to return home safely from
school.
After all, the threat of losing the invitation to Taurus Silver’s press
conference proved to be effective.
Taking Miyuki to her new home in Chofu, and having received this
information from an observer at First High, Tatsuya returned to Izu.
Those who watched First High was not Tatsuya himself. But he had
connections with those who orchestrated the surveillance.
Returning to Izu, Tatsuya met with his information provider, who
returned before him and waited for him in the villa's living room.
"Hyougo-san, today you have taken good care of various affairs."
"Tatsuya, you have also worked well today."
Hyougo stood opposite of the chair Tatsuya sat on. Naturally, Tatsuya
was not going to get up, and Hyougo stubbornly was not going to sit
down. In addition, Tatsuya called him "Hyougo-san" Not because they
befriended, but to distinguish him from his father, who, like Hyogo, is
the butler of the Yotsuba family.
"No, I just took Miyuki. Thanks for the info on the attacker."
By the information about the attacker, he meant the case where the
terrorist shot at Tatsuya. To be honest, Tatsuya was informed in advance
by Hyougo that among the crowd of the First High reporters, murderers
could hide.
"Everything went well?"
"Yes. Although it was unexpected that he was the only one."
"To make sure Miyuki did not get wounded by stray bullets, we had
taken care of them in advance to reduce their number... Were these
actions unnecessary?"
"Reduce the number? Got it... No, I think it was reasonable."
"Thank you for your praise."
Hyogo bowed, putting his hand on his chest.
"It seems that because of the shooting on Tatsuya, the media staff has
gotten excited. There were reports that they have begun to see hints that
there could be a connection between that armed terrorist and the anti-
magic movement."
"It seems that it was expedient to give him a shot."
"For people who do not deal with weapons, the scene in which they see
a man shooting is quite shocking, even if the victim is their sworn
enemy. And this time, because of the fact that Tatsuya-sama was
catching bullets and leaving them in the same form, the impression was
even stronger. I suspect that the effect of this will begin to spread
gradually."
"Would it have been better if I was injured?"
"Probably, yes. However, Miyuki-sama would be saddened if Tatsuya-
sama shed blood, so stopping the bullets was the best solution."
"Really. There would be a reverse effect if Miyuki lost her head and her
magic got out of control."
Tatsuya sarcastically chuckled, saying this, but Hyougo bowed,
pretending not to notice it. Like these two said, Tatsuya deliberately
gave the terrorist a shot at him. Although the terrorist was not a fake in
itself, but before the plan of attack was known, two people were
preparing to play that role.
"The original plan was to let them know that if they were close to
magicians, they could be attacked by supporters of the anti-magic
movement."
"I think this warning was received. I am also thinking of preparing a few
reports that Anti-magic is a hateful terrorist for all."
"I'll leave it to you."
"As you wish."
Hyougo bowed again, putting his hand on his chest, and his face looked
happy perhaps from the fact that he enjoyed this backstage work.

In addition to the villa where Tatsuya lived, the Yotsuba family had
another property in Izu. It was a small separate house from which it was
possible for Miya to rest and not disturb her.
Among the Yotsuba, Miya was the only owner of magic with unique
properties. Even if she was overloaded with the use of magic and could
not fully work as a magician, it was still expected that all sorts of vile
hunters would try to kidnap her for this unique skill.
In fact, there were as many as three attacks to kidnap Miya, and all of
them were repulsed, so the construction of the house was not an
unnecessary concern. However, after Mia's death, the house was
abandoned and only occasionally visited to maintain order.
Although all this time Tatsuya resided only in the villa, the possibility of
using that house after a long time was also considered.
Yuuka did not find any problems with the furniture, appliances and
other accessories.
"Thank you for your work."
Tsukuba Yuuka, the eldest daughter of the Tsukuba family, one of the
side branches of the Yotsuba family, nodded generously.
"If the luggage is transported, can you take the case?"
It was the evening of the day when Tatsuya dined with Maya, discussing
how to react to the information War announced by the two Clarks,
Edward and Raymond. It goes without saying that Yuuka visited this
little house not for entertainment, but to complete the task entrusted to
her by the head of the family Yotsuba.
The work entrusted by Maya to the Tsukuba family was to erect a
"cleansing from people" barrier, which should keep the media from
approaching the villa where Tatsuya resides. Such spells are a specialty
of ancient magic, and modern magic was not initially focused on such
activities. But among all families with a familial relationship with the
Yotsuba, the Tsukuba family was best specialized in Mental Interference
Magic. Using such conditions to activate the magic where duration is
increased by decreasing the power, you can build barriers no worse than
those of the users of ancient magic.
They arrived at the observation house in the evening, so when the
installation of the barrier was completed, it was already dark. If you can
use magic, it doesn't mean that you can see in the dark. Night vision is a
magical ability.
"Madam, a suspicious person has been found."
"Uh, where?"
That's why Yuuka didn't notice that man.
"...Oh, I see. Looks like he's watching the villa where Tatsuya-san is
located."
A suspicious man was dressed in a dark blue jacket and trousers, which
was poorly distinguishable in the dark, and had binoculars hanging on
his neck. Even at the place where he stood, one could come to the
conclusion that he, as Yuuka said, came to watch the activity of Tatsuya.
Yuuka’s subordinates spotted this man with the newly created barrier.
This barrier, created under the guidance of Yuuka, interferes with the
idea that people can recognize the existence of the villa where Tatsuya is
staying in. The principle is the same as that of
"Ghost Walker" used by Zhou Gongjin and Chen Xianshan. The eyes
see something, but the consciousness thinks it doesn't see it.
And how does that affect the person who was watching the villa right
before the barrier was erected? He'd think the villa was suddenly gone.
No wonder he may accidentally stop hiding his presence.
Conversely, if this person did not even flinch, it would mean that he has
the skills to hide his presence from Yuuka and her subordinates.
"Grab him. Not to kill. No serious injuries."
"Understood."
The magicians accompanying Yuuka, dissolved in the darkness, leaving
one of them as her guard.
"In any case, Tatsuya-san certainly noticed him..."
Yuuka looked at the villa where Tatsuya was located. The bright light
from the windows made the villa noticeable in the dark.
Tatsuya hardly did not notice that someone was peeping. It seems that he
left that man because he came to the conclusion that there would be no
real harm from him. Or he thought that even if he catches him, then the
follow-up action on the issue can be a troublesome affair.
This man hid on the land belonging to the villa. All surrounding areas
were the property of the Yotsuba family (more precisely the real estate
company, which was secretly managed by the Yotsuba family). But
there were no fences there. Even if the offender is apprehended under
the pretext of an unlawful invasion, he can pretend that he has not
noticed and in retaliation accuse the apprehenders of unnecessary
measures.
"... Looks like he's decided to throw those difficulties at us."
Tatsuya should have noticed not only a suspicious person, but also
Yuuka's group. He thought he didn't have to get his hands dirty.
Yuuka deeply sighed, remembering the face of her not-so-sweet distant
relative.

"Head-sama, the construction of the barrier has been completed without

delay."
"Good work."
After completing the interrogation of the suspicious person, Yuuka
returned to the small house and called Maya with a report.
"After that, we discovered a suspicious type, watching Tatsuya-sama.
We caught him and interrogated him."
"And?"
Maya slightly rounded her eyes, and the corners of her lips slightly
raised, forming a smile.
"Did you determine his affiliation?"
"He is an agent of the Tomita family."
"Tomita of the hundred families... I think they are on a special account
with the Magic Association, aren’t they?"
"Yes. The observation of Tatsuya-sama was conducted on the request of
the Magic Association."
"Clear..."
Maya nodded with a charming smile on her face. Yuuka felt a chill on
her back, but she somehow managed to keep her face calm.
"According to the agent of the Tomita family, he had no intention to
cause harm. Apparently, the Magic Association thought that Tatsuya-
san would try to hide somewhere."
"Clear."
"We still have the agent. What do we do with him?"
"Let him go. No need to erase memory."
"...Will that be okay?"
"Yes. The Yotsuba family never abandons their people. It is necessary
to remind the Magic Association about this."
...Too impertinently, Yuuka unwittingly thought. At least she didn't say
it out loud.
If we remember the circumstances of Tatsuya until last year, it is quite a
good impression.
No, it's not just the past. Yuuka believed that the duel with the head of
the Juumonji family was a battle that he had to go to alone as the one
who would become the husband of the next head of the Yotsuba family.
But at the same time she felt that not taking any measures against the
Military Intelligence Department was quite brutal on the Yotsuba’s part.
"You wanted to say something else?"
"Yes, but it does not apply to the task."
Yuuka answered Maya's question immediately, as if she were not
thinking of anything superfluous. Because of such abilities, Yuuka was
in the first place among the four candidates for the right to be the next
head of the family.
"I don't mind."
"My mother is worried that the seal on Tatsuya-san has disappeared."
"'Worried' is a rather discreet description, isn't it?"
Even if Maya was joking, Yuuka couldn't refute it.
Touka, Yuuka's mother, is proud of her magical powers. Of course, this
kind of pride is present in every magician, but Touka is a special case.
Knowing this, not only Maya, but anyone could guess that the
destruction of Pledge made Touka hysterical.
"Does the head think that this is not a problem?"
Instead of arguing, Yuuka directly asked about Maya's intentions.
"That Pledge was annulled? Hmm, I don't think there's going to be a
problem, but... There's nothing to be done about it, right?"
"Nothing to be done?"
Maya's response surprised Yuuka.
"I knew it could be dissipated in theory. But who would have thought
that Tatsuya-san would be able to do something that could be dangerous
for Miyuki-san?"
"Yes. Really."
According to the system of Pledge itself, it was expected that, when
destroying the magic itself, the spell supporting Miyuki would receive
seriously damage. Therefore, it was really unexpected that Tatsuya went
to that much risk.
"In addition, we will not be able to re-impose Pledge on Tatsuya-san."
Yuuka had nothing but to admit to what Maya said.
Pledge places a heavy burden not only on those who use it, but the
person who maintains the Magic Sequence. Not just in a case where
there is a recoil from Pledge being dispelled; in a situation where Pledge
acts, it keeps the magician from losing control of their magical skills on
a daily basis.
The current Tatsuya can now use magic that would have before reduced
the magical skills of Miyuki.
"When we cannot do anything, can we only run away from reality?"
This comment by Maya was an acute criticism, hidden under the guise
of reproach to Yuuka and her mother, who had gone beside herself
because of the destruction of Pledge.
"True... I think you're right." Yuuka answered, realizing this. She
answered not because she had no choice because she was submissive,
but because she understood the meaning of the expression "escape from
reality."

Chapter 2

The profession of Shibata Katsushige, the next head of the Shibata

family, one of the side branches of the Yotsuba, officially meant that he
worked as the Secretary for the Ministry of Defense.
Katsushige’s Magic combat power was extremely high, but instead of
using magic in battle himself, his work was to reflect on how to use
magic in battle.
In South America, Africa and Central Asia there were still many battles,
but East Asia and the western part of the Pacific region have been in a
state of calm since autumn of the 19th year. Thanks to this, many
employees of the Ministry of Defense did not work overtime and left
early.
The day after the media raised a big hype (ordinary citizens who had no
relation to magic, did not even know about the topic) around the
disclosure of the identity of Taurus Silver.
After leaving the office at 19 o'clock, Katsushige didn’t go home, but to
a hotel in the center of the city. Although it was not a first class hotel,
whose name was known even abroad, it was popular among businessmen
for delicious food and an acceptable level of safety.
In the restaurant of the aforementioned hotel, he quickly found the
person with whom he had a scheduled meeting. Naturally, he found him
quickly, because here, everything was arranged in the form of separate
rooms, and he knew which room to go to.
"Hi. I'm sorry I called."
He was dressed in a regular suit of a man of the same age as
Katsushige’s father.
Even to Katsushige, who knows his occupation, he looked like an
ordinary businessman.
"No. It's all because my dad couldn't come. Forgive us for the impolite
change of the contact person."
"No, no, no. Asking for a meeting so suddenly is a thoughtless act from
me. Here I have to apologize."
"If you say so, then I am grateful, Kuroba-san."
Like Katsushige said, the partner he met was Kuroba Mitsugu, head of
the Kuroba family, one of the side branches of the same Yotsuba family.
At the invitation of Mitsugu, Katsushige sat down. Mitsugu also sat
down at the same time. The waiter, who entered the room with
Katsushige, came to the table. Mitsugu and Katsushige only ordered sake
and light snacks and let the waiter go.
"So."
Mitsugu straightened out, and then slightly bent over the table.
"Today I called for an important reason. We need to talk about him."
"Are you talking about Tatsuya-kun?"
Mitsugu said "about him" unclearly, but Katsushige easily guessed the
person he meant was Tatsuya. But Mitsugu did not make a mistake, and
did not make a gloomy face.
"Right. Yesterday the identity of Taurus Silver, in the end, became well-
known. What do you think, Katsushige-kun?"
"Was it not inevitable when Edward Clark made it clear that he knew the
name of Taurus Silver? Although it is unfavorable for the Yotsuba
family, but I do not think that Tatsuya-kun is to blame."
The answer Katsushige gave was not what Mitsugu expected.
"But don't you think that this situation could have been avoided if he
hadn't entered First High and obediently sat at home? Because it is
obvious that
'project Dione' takes into account not only the achievements of Taurus
Silver, but also the experiment 'Stellar Furnace', which he did last
spring."
Katsushige shook his head at the words of Mitsugu.
"Admission to First High was not Tatsuya-kun’s intention. It was
inevitable because of the Yotsuba family's sentinel system."
"Katsushige-kun may not know, but after the incident Yokohama the
head-sama ordered him to drop out of school and sit under house arrest.
But he did not obey and continued to attend First High. If he were to
disappear from the stage at that moment, he would never have been
noticed."
"No. After using Material Burst, it was only a matter of time before
Tatsuya-kun would be discovered behind the scenes by international
politics, only this would have happened in another form. Besides, at that
moment it was impossible not to use Material Burst. Without this magic,
Japan would have suffered immense damage."
"Is that so? There is the Yatsushiro family in Kyushu. If there is a battle
at sea, the Itsuwa family will depart. In naval battles, the Itsuwa family
has a great battle force even without the use of 'Abyss' by Mio-Jo. The
Great Asian Alliance is a strong enemy, but I don't think we'd lose to
them if we hadn't used the Material Burst."
"Even so. At that stage there was no other choice but to use Material
Burst. In war, Victory is not always the best way out, but it does not
mean that you have to lose. After the invasion of the country, the forces
for the next battle would remain less. Not only time, but also economic
power is needed to replenish the combat force. If you look at the Great
Asian Alliance, suffering from the consequences of the monstrous attack
of Material Burst, you will understand."
Mitsugu had nothing to object to. He knew and understood it even
without these words.
"... I understand your thoughts that his magic is irreplaceable for
National Defense. Then it is even more impossible to let him go to
America."
Mitsugu changed his approach.
"Yes."
Katsushige only briefly expressed his consent.
"In that case, should he be protected by the Yotsuba family? And the
USNA government can surrender if, for example, he dies suddenly."
Mitsugu, who received the approval from his words, gathered his
strength and said what he wanted.
"And if he, moreover, will be killed by 'Humanists', it should reduce the
worsening public opinion about magicians."
"Really."
"In this case... Kuroba-san."
Using as a pretext the will of one of the side branches, Mitsugu was
going to ask Maya for Tatsuya to be caught and locked away. But
Katsushige abruptly interrupted Mitsugu’s speech, in which he wanted to
ask for cooperation.
"I couldn’t understand why all the heads of the side branches look at
Tatsuya-kun with such hostility."
Katsushige said "couldn't" in the past tense: So Mitsugu already
understood the meaning of this sentence.
"So the other day I checked it out, and I asked my dad. He did not want
to confess for a long time, but in the end he told everything."
"... I see."
The people of Mitsugu’s generation promised to keep this story secret.
But Mitsugu did not feel that he should criticize the head of the Shibata
family, understanding his motives. No, it is right to say that he had no
right to criticize. Because Mitsugu himself was the first to reveal the
secret. Despite the fact that the one he disclosed it to was Tatsuya
himself.
"Kuroba-san. I can't agree with you and my father. To be hostile towards
Tatsuya-kun is wrong."
The voice of the waiter was heard from outside the room.
They briefly interrupted the conversation, waited for the waiter to put
glasses on the table with chilled sake and left the room, and then
continued.
"... But he's dangerous."
"One person possesses the power to destroy the whole world. One
influential person has access to a 'button' that can destroy the whole
world. One government possesses a military force capable of destroying
the entire world. Of these three concepts, the first two seem to differ in
nature from the latter, but in their essence they are all the same thing.
As far as how 'democratic' the country is, its military force is always
ready for use. Otherwise there would be no point. There is no point in
maintaining military capabilities if the country itself is destroyed while
democratic procedures are in place. Civilian control is what deters
influential people from willful use of the army in fear of losing office,
and stops the use of already applied force. In the presence of a system
capable of completely discontinuing the use of military force, in any case
it will be impossible to properly defend from, even when preparing in
advance."
"However, instead of the complete absence of brakes, it is better to have
at least some. Even if it is only a partial limitation."
"You're right. Therefore, dictators should not be allowed to possess
weapons of mass destruction. Military power must be under civilian
control. But Kuroba-san. Influential people elected by Democratic vote
can also turn the key to launch strategic nuclear missiles. Even if the
startup key is divided between several people, it is necessary to
understand that the owners of these keys are chosen by influential people
themselves, without the participation of voters."
"...This is an extreme argument."
"The fact that Tatsuya-kun will destroy the world is also an extreme
argument."
"If you think so, the use of weapons of mass destruction by dictators is
also an extreme argument."
"No. A dictator is called a dictator because the structure of his power is
arranged so that no one can stop him. It's different with a normal person.
You can't interfere with a person's thoughts. What a man thinks, what he
decides, cannot be stopped by other people. But if it is an ordinary
person, not a dictator, then they can be influenced to be stopped. You
can limit them to change their mind. He can be persuaded."
"...Are you saying that ordinary people are closer to influential people
from the democratic government than to dictators?"
"People living alone... No, people who think they live alone will be
closer to dictators. However, those who wish to live with someone,
people who feel that they cannot live alone, cannot become dictators."
"..."
"Kuroba-san. It is not necessary to consider Tatsuya-kun a dictator. If
you really care about the future of the world, then he should not remain
alone. Sorry for the rudeness, but what you want to do will only
backfire. This will not only harm the fighting power of our country. As
a result, it will harm the future of the world."
"...Is that your opinion?"
"I came here instead of my father. You might have guessed from this
fact."
Katsushige got up.
"Kuroba-san. Be realistic."
Finally having said this, Mitsugu continued to sit, while Katsushige
went home, where he was waiting for Kotona and he cooked her dinner.

At the same time, when Mitsugu and Katsushige parted in a tense

atmosphere.
At the headquarters of the Magic Association in Kyoto, the Chairman of
the Association, Tomitsuka Hitsui sat at the desk in her office, clutching
her head.
Before her eyes on the table lay a document containing an urgent
request from the USNA. It said that Edward Clark plans to visit Japan
and asks to organize a meeting with Taurus Silver, that is with Shiba
Tatsuya.
"Ah-ah, that's it! What do you think I should do?"
Hitsui hysterically shouted, looking at the document lying on the table.
"No, I know what to do! We need to arrange a meeting with Shiba
Tatsuya!"
Still holding on to her head, she chided herself. Hitsui’s head was
boiling. "Yes, it is understandable..."
As a result, an exhausted Hitsui’s face fell on the table.
"But I have no such power..."
Still with her face lying on the table, Hitsui sighed deeply.
"I give up... I can't..."
Hitsui slowly lifted the upper half of her body from the table.
"This Saturday... It's too urgent, and it feels like the situation will only
get worse..."
She looked at a small display standing on the side table on the side of
her desk. An overview of the latest news was displayed there.
"Taurus Silver will hold a press conference the day before that?
Why of all the days exactly the day before? Yes, and what does he want
to talk about?"
Reflection over it, Hitsui decided it wasn't that bad.
"Why does all this happens when I am the Chairman..."
Her head collapsed on the table again.

It was late evening, after 21 o'clock, when Maya called Tatsuya.

"I'm sorry about the time."
"No, I've been waiting for this call. Many thanks."
"Don't worry. It's about my promise."
Indeed, when they spoke last time, Maya said she was arranging a
meeting with Toudou Aobo. But Tatsuya didn't expect Maya to call in
person to report it.
"Did you get a meeting time from His Excellency Toudou?" Tatsuya
asked, hiding his surprise, having made a face expressing nothing.
"Yes, that's right. Looks like he's ready to meet you tomorrow at 7:00
p.m."
Maya had a smile, showing that she noticed the excitement of Tatsuya,
but she did nothing so hostile, like reproach him for it.
"Where will the meeting take place?"
"In the Temple of Kyuuchouji *. I heard that Kokonoe Yakumo-san will
be present at the meeting."
[The name of the temple is written in the same characters as "Kokonoe",
but it is read differently]
This time Tatsuya could not hide his surprise. Maya giggled, as if saying,
"I caught you."
"...Sorry. But I was also surprised to learn about it, and Tatsuya-san, I
see, is also surprised. Now I feel a little calmer."
"I'm surprised. Is the master somehow involved in this?"
"His Excellency and Yakumo-san seem to have been well acquainted for
quite some time. But the connection between them is a mystery."
"I thought so too."
Tatsuya responded quickly, but in reality, together with a strong surprise,
had tormenting doubts.
The one who introduced Tatsuya to Yakumo was Kazama. Officially,
they do not have any connection to the Yotsuba. He communicated
directly with Kazama and with Yakumo. He thought that their words
could be trusted, considering that the 101 Independent Magic Equipped
Battalion secretly quarreled with the Ten Master Clans.
However, everything changed with this additional information about the
friendly (how close this "Friendship" is, is unclear) relationship between
Yakumo and Toudou Aoba.
Tatsuya and Yakumo’s relationship isn’t one of disciple and teacher.
This was decided at their first meeting.
They were only sparring partners for magic martial arts training,
Yakumo has taught Tatsuya nothing. He was taking questions, but he
could not answer them. Such was the agreement about his visits to
Yakumo.
However, Tatsuya learned a lot from Yakumo. For example, without the
help of Yakumo, he would have hardly been able to complete the
development of "Far Strike" needed to confront the parasites.
Also, although Yakumo’s position about "answers to questions" has not
changed, Tatsuya has received a lot of knowledge from Yakumo, even in
cases where this knowledge corresponded to "A question that he cannot
answer."
Tatsuya thought it was just some kind of fad for Yakumo. He felt that
Yakumo, whom he had not known at the time, had done it for some
purpose.
He also suspected that it might have been a plan to separate him from the
Yotsuba family so that he fell under the control of the self-defense
forces. However, the more he communicated with Yakumo, the more
scattered these suspicions became.
But doesn't that mean he should have thought that?
Yakumo was not easy. No, according to Tatsuya’s judgment, he was an
uncontrollable suspicious man. However, Tatsuya for some reason
trusted Yakumo...
"Well, then tomorrow at 7 o'clock in the evening I will visit the temple
of Kyuuchouji. Thank you very much for the information."
Answering Maya, Tatsuya tried to remain vigilant in order not to show
his anxiety.

Chapter 3

On Monday, when Raymond Clark in the form of "the first Sage"

performed on TV, the population's interest in Taurus Silver rose sharply.
But the next day the interest began to fade away, and today, on
Wednesday, it has ceased to be a topic of discussion among ordinary
people.
There are no people in the world of magic who do not know the famous
Taurus Silver. However, those who can use magic make up only one
thousandth of the adult population. But this does not mean that 99.99%
of people live without magic, because some people are related to magic
in the role of engineers, managers, politicians, soldiers and other civil
servants, even without the ability to use magic in practice.
In recent years, even people who are engaged in magic began to appear,
while speaking of the Anti-magician movement.
Quite a few citizens indirectly benefit from the use of magic for public
order, national defense and disaster response. However, most people still
live without a direct relationship to magic.
Magic is not a necessary factor for the life of modern society. At least in
a social environment where you can live peacefully. Thus, even if the
innocent magicians (better to say whose guilt is unknown) are harassed,
they treat it indifferently. Being indifferent, you will not feel guilty.
Even if one high school student, known as Taurus Silver, tries to impose
a future contrary to their will, for ordinary people it was no more than
one third of the articles in the newspapers.
In the evening, when Tatsuya arrived at the temple of Kyuuchouji, this
situation still remained unchanged.

18:45. Tatsuya left the train booth at a stop in front of the steps leading
to the gates of the Kyuuchoji temple.
Nobody was with him. To come alone was one of the conditions for
Tatsuya from Toudou Aoba.
Tatsuya, from the booth, looked slowly at the sides. Although he
consciously acted so conspicuously to check... I mean, to show that he's
checking that there's some kind of security around here, and that he's on
the lookout, but he really couldn't find any signs of the observers.
There were signs of persecution, they just disappeared before he arrived
at the foot of this hill, so it seems he was not mistaken.
It wasn't a coincidence. Perhaps the disciples of Yakumo (or even
Yakumo himself) took care of it. As Yakumo does not trust the reception
of guests (even if they are not invited guests) to inexperienced people
making mistakes, Tatsuya decided that he did not need to worry about it.
Whom he should worry about--is about himself. Even Yakumo should
not interfere with a personal conversation with the famous Toudou Aoba,
a secret player in the backstage arena of the political and business world.
But you can't be completely sure of that. Perhaps this place was chosen
to check Tatsuya out.
Given this opportunity, he arrived 15 minutes early just in case. But if
Yakumo is serious, it is extremely doubtful that so much time is enough.
Keeping this in mind, no matter how overzealous, Tatsuya went up the
stone steps.
Unfortunately, Tatsuya fears came true.
Roughly in the middle of the path along the stone steps, the space around
suddenly contorted. He was shown the illusion that the ladder began to
increase...
No, that he himself began to shrink.
He realized that his consciousness was affected by magic. This
characteristic continuous effect was the peculiarity of ancient magic.
Modern magic, on the contrary, gave importance to speed, and it did not
have such features as a long action to maintain the effect.
With his sight, Tatsuya could see that reality and the illusion were
overlapping. This was because Tatsuya was pushing out the interrupting
spells that were trying to penetrate his mind with a Magic Sequence,
reading the contents of these sequences of magic.
Even with magic acting on the Mind (Pushion information body), the
sequence of magic was in the form of a Psion information body.
Although Tatsuya was not able to use Mental Interference Magic, if the
Magic Sequence is in a state where the activation is not yet complete, he
could defend against the magic of the enemy or even intervene with the
spell.
This magic caused him to take some time to activate magic with his
hand. If this wasn’t Tatsuya, he would have already become a prisoner to
the illusion.
But he did not fall for the magic of illusions. Knowing Yakumo, he
wouldn’t have expected this magic to stop Tatsuya. Kokonoe Yakumo
was not a naïve adversary, continuing to use those methods that he has
already shown that do not work. Once Genjutsu* does not work then
move on to the next...
[The same magic of illusions, just apparently a term from ancient magic.]
"...Physical attack" It happened at the same time as Tatsuya said it to
himself.
From two sides he was attacked by cutting vortices.
These were not vacuum blades. It was magic, which, with the support of
the air, crushed stone to powder, condensed in the form of ultra plates
and sent them into flight with high speed.
On the edges of the stone steps there were no hedges, only a grove.
Tatsuya instantly decomposed these four flying blades, flying from the
darkness, which used to be nothing.
Of course, Yakumo’s attack should not have ended with this. A man
named Kokonoe Yakumo was not so kind as to (even when he is not
serious) to finish a case with two types of attack, Genjutsu and cutting
vortices
The stone steps Tatsuya was standing on, were not long. This evening
was cloudless and the moon shone. He was unable to see the temple gate
even at night, but now everything in front of him was filled with
impenetrable darkness.
And from this darkness flew arrows.
Close sounds were not heard. He could not feel any signs of magic,
dampening sound, or signs of magic sending the arrows. Was it a magic
trick to let out arrows without a sound, or a bow made to not make a
sound when shooting?
Sending this thought to the far corner of the mind, Tatsuya sent the bulk
of his consciousness to the rain of the arrows.
He laid out all the arrows as one aggregate. Applying magic, Tatsuya
finally noticed that the arrows were intangible.
"Magic of false information bodies!?" It was not a simple illusion. It
was Genjutsu, influencing the information dimension and deceiving
vision, "seeing Information". This is a magic of the same type as
"Parade" which Lina specializes at.
It was a trick to expect that the attack would be something tangible.
Tatsuya aggravated all five senses and ran up the stone steps. There
were no signs of any presence in front of him.
Tatsuya did not stop and slow down and cautiously moved forward, but
at the same time he could not suppress a sense of surprise in himself,
that was directly carried out.
In this battle, for the first time Tatsuya discovered the location of the
enemy. Sharpened hearing caught the sounds of rustling clothes.
Heightened smell of incense, which impregnated the clothing.
Heightened sight noticed the contour of the figure, which came out of
the darkness. The figure was above him on the ladder.
Being below, Tatsuya was in a clearly disadvantaged position.
Tatsuya jumped.
When he was at the same height as the enemy, he pulled his leg forward
for a blow, without fear that the situation would become uncomfortable.
The enemy curved the upper part of the body and dodged the jumping
kick by Tatsuya. Flying past the remaining enemy, Tatsuya landed on a
stone stage.
Now Tatsuya was higher. But now Tatsuya was in an insecure position,
rotating back to the enemy.
Heightened touch caught the airflow. The enemy's attack was aimed at
his back. Using Flash Casting, Tatsuya activated Move-Type Magic.
The magic activated with Flash Cast had a small scale and a low power.
The speed could be called the only advantage. But if you need to move
only 60 centimeters, then with flash casting, it was not a problem. And
to evade the enemy's fist, a distance of 60 centimeters was enough.
When the enemy's direct punch overcame a distance of 30 centimeters,
Tatsuya was already twice as far away. The enemy's attack ended in a
blunder. Tatsuya turned around and prepared to attack at the same time
as the enemy began to move forward.
The edge of Tatsuya’s palm was at the enemy's neck. The enemy's Fist
(Yakumo) was at Tatsuya’s armpit. Both of them stopped their hands on
the verge of delivering a blow.
"Master. This was a pretty rude greeting."
"It's almost time. Come along. His Excellency is waiting."
Tatsuya looked at the watch. It showed 18:50. It's only been five minutes
since he started climbing the stone steps. Tatsuya didn't think he could
fight Yakumo in such a short time. It seems that Yakumo himself had
chosen how long the fight would take.
Although Tatsuya limited himself as not to cause damage to the
environment, he was serious in this battle. However, Yakumo was able
to act so as to take the schedule into account. With a little regret, Tatsuya
realized that he was still far from Yakumo.
When Tatsuya entered the main hall of the temple, there was no dust on
his suit.
All of the consequences by Yakumo’s "prank" had been removed using
"Regrowth".
Yakumo led him into the inner room. Toudou Aoba expected him in the
side room, which led him through a passage to the right of the main
premises of the temple (where an altar of a deity stands, which is prayed
to in the temple).
He had a suitably shaven head for a Buddhist temple. However, he was
wearing a high-class business suit, clearly sewn to order. He easily held
his back straight, his shoulders were wide, and the lower part of the body
also had a dense physique. Signs of old age were already noticeable, but
when he was young, he was undoubtedly a strong guy.
But at the same time, on his head, below his would-be hair is his most
distinctive feature.
Bulging eyes under thick gray eyebrows. His face is not beautiful, it
could be called Majestic. However, his turbid-white left eye caused a
strange feeling of oppression of the interlocutor. This left eye created an
impression of heterogeneity.
Tatsuya also paid attention to this left eye. He realized that he had
already met this old man in this temple in January of this year, on the
4th, to be more precise. But they did not quite meet, he only saw
Toudou by his back when he was leaving the temple. Toudou then
turned and looked at Tatsuya with his murky white eye, but said nothing
and left.
"Can I start introducing myself?" Tatsuya asked after sitting down on
his knees and bowed.
At first he thought it would be better to sit quietly until Yakumo
presents him, but then he felt that in this case he would be captured in
the blink of an eye by the opponent's pace.
"Permitted."
The answer Toudou gave would sound like an anachronism if it were to
be said by another person, but not by him. The voice of Toudou
perfectly fit his manner of speech.
"Nice to meet you. My name is Shiba Tatsuya. It is a great honor for me
to meet you."
"I am Toudou Aoba. Yotsuba Tatsuya, I've been looking forward to
seeing you."
Toudou called Tatsuya "Yotsuba Tatsuya" instead of "Shiba Tatsuya".
Tatsuya, who was still in his bow, did not react to these words.
"You can raise your head. I permit you to talk directly."
Tatsuya straightened out like he was told. He did not look away, but
looked Toudou straight in the eye. This was his interpretation of the
meaning of
"permit you to talk". But neither Toudou himself nor Yakumo
reproached him for that.
"I heard from Maya. That you want to explain something to me."
"Yes."
Tatsuya didn't use such standard phrases, like, "Could you give me your
time?" or "Could you listen to me?". He intuitively understood that
Toudou did not need such formalities.
"I'm listening to you." And Toudou, indeed, immediately asked to go to
the main topic.
"In short, I have a plan to build a plant that produces energy resources
using magic."
Tatsuya said this as a preface, and began explaining the details of
"project ESCAPES". Toudou did not interrupt Tatsuya and listened to
his whole story to the end.
"Clear." Toudou said after Tatsuya finished the story, saying he wanted
to have a press conference as a means of retaliation in an information
war that was announced by the two Clarks, Edward and Raymond.
"Then, can you allow me to go out in front of the media?"
"I give my permission. You can also use my connections to ask others
for cooperation."
"Thank you very much."
Although Tatsuya said so, he did not feel joy, but vigilance. He
concluded that everything went too well. Consent was not to be
unconditional. There must have been some conditions. He was afraid he
would be put in some impossible conditions.
"By the way, I want to ask you something."
"What's that?"
Tatsuya answered, without changing the expression on his face, but he
could not get rid of the feeling that he was trying to evade the question.
Toudou may have noticed the alarmed Tatsuya, but did not take
advantage of him.
"In your explanation, you mentioned that you are not looking for
political power."
"Yes."
More precisely, he said that he is not going to ask for more power, if it
does not interfere with the work of the plant, but he was not required to
demand political power, so he did not dare to correct what Toudou said.
"I'm not just talking about the power plant. The power you possess is
incomparable to anything. It's not just that it exceeds the limits
expendable for one person. In fact, this is not something that may be
allowed to any organizations other than the state."
Tatsuya didn't mind that. He himself seriously considered this the same
as Toudou said. But despite this, Tatsuya was not going to give up his
power or trust it to anyone.
"Why do you use this power? What do you want to achieve with this
force?"
"A happy life."
Tatsuya responded immediately without showing any hesitation.
Hearing this answer, Toudou clearly frowned his eyebrows.
"Are you saying that this undeserved power of one man should only be
used for one's own sake? Are you not interested in the welfare of society
and the preservation of the state?"
"A happy life is impossible without the well-being of society. Also, I
believe that at the current stage of human development, the existence of
States is absolutely necessary for the maintenance of public order."
"I mean, do you mind giving your power to the state for your own well-
being?"
"I would not use such arrogant phrases as 'giving power'... But if you
look from the standpoint of public order and National Defense, you,
Your Excellency, are correct."
"That's good. Yotsuba Tatsuya."
Toudou again called Tatsuya "Yotsuba Tatsuya". They sat opposite to
each other and looked into each other's eyes. Seeing the expression on
the face of Toudou, Tatsuya realized that he was not mistaken, and said
so intentionally.
"I want you to do what I used to do. Be the deterrent force of this
country."
The words of Toudou puzzled Tatsuya.
(What does he mean by deterrent force? Does he want me to officially
announce that I am the user of Material burst? But then it cannot be
called "the same as before...")
"...You want me to declare myself a magician of strategic class?”
Tatsuya decided not to waste time, rewinding his thoughts that were
deadlock, and directly asked Toudou about his intentions.
"Now it is not necessary. But if you need to, do it."
"Does that mean that in case of a military threat, I have to confront it?
Like in the fall of two years ago?"
At the end of October 19th, Tatsuya destroyed the fleet of the Great
Asian alliance with Strategic Class Magic. (Does it mean that he will
have me play this role again in the future?)
"Deterrent power is the ability to stop a threat from becoming a reality.
The ability to confront a military threat that has become a reality is a
conventional military force, not a deterrent force. The power of
deterrence is something that is desirable, but should not be used."
But this probably wasn't what Toudou wanted.
"You don't understand?"
"It's a shame to admit, but I don’t."
In fact, he didn't fully understand what Toudou said. But Tatsuya
decided not to speculate, but just to ask the right answer.
"This is nothing complicated for you. It is enough to deter other
countries by instilling fear in them."
Understandable, mentally agreed Tatsuya. This was roughly the same
conclusion he came to.
Apparently Toudou wants Tatsuya to play the role of the Demon King.
But not as the king of demons, as in an RPG, which must be destroyed
by a hero. It’s more like a transcendental being who can cause disasters
by simply reaching out.
"Your Excellency has previously said that it is desirable that a deterrent
force should not be used. But to scare the enemy, don’t you need to
show them your strength?"
"If there is a need to demonstrate, usage can’t be avoided. I'll leave that
decision to the people behind you."
And it seems that he will not have to choose this remedy. Tatsuya
recently wondered whether a deterrent force was a necessary evil.
Changing the activity of magicians from the military sphere to a civil
one. As a result, the power of the military, which relies on the shoulders
of magicians, will be reduced.
Magic is a force that is somewhat unrelated to the amount of material
resources. The magicians that provide combat power are the aspect with
which even small countries can confront large countries with many
resources.
If the magicians' fighting power is not grasped, small countries will
likely not be able to confront large countries. Unfortunately, it is easy to
predict a future in which the world will plunge into the era of war if the
four major world powers notice this and begin to absorb the world.
And if the world is again enveloped in the fire of war, magicians will
start to be used as weapons again. Trying to improve the lives of
magicians is a vicious cycle.
Perhaps to avoid such a future, he will inevitably have to become a
deterrent force, replacing the lost fighting power of magicians who have
gone into the civil sphere. Tatsuya thought so before he heard Toudou’s
demand.
If Tatsuya becomes a deterrent force, then "Project ESCAPES" — the
first step to releasing magicians from their fate as weapons — will
receive not only the tacit approval of Toudou, but also his support.
Tatsuya had no reason to refuse.
"As Your Excellency wishes."
Tatsuya expressed his intention to accept the Toudou’s proposal with an
indirect expression.
"Are you sure?" For the first time, Yakumo spoke, who until now only
silently listened to the conversation between Tatsuya and Toudou. "In
that case, you will be lonely."
"I don't mind."
Tatsuya really needs only one person. If this person is near, he will
never feel lonely. The feelings of Tatsuya were arranged in such a way.
And he knew that this person, Miyuki, would never leave him. Even
death will not be able to separate Tatsuya and Miyuki. Because he won't
let that happen.
Being separated from other people was not a cause of concern for
Tatsuya.
Yakumo’s warning did not frighten Tatsuya.
"This conversation is over."
It seemed that Yakumo still had something to say. However, Toudou
decided to wrap things up. (for Toudou it was an intervention).
"Your Excellency. What should I do?"
Tatsuya was not going to talk to Yakumo. As he realized that Yakumo
was worried about him, he decided to avoid quarrels that could ruin the
relationship in the future.
"I'm not going to give you any specific instructions. Do what you think
you need to do."
The words of Toudou did not mean the granting of unlimited powers.
It was the opposite. This meant that Toudou would not be responsible,
no matter what happened. Responsibility for any problems would fall on
Tatsuya.
"I accept your offer." Considering this fair, Tatsuya answered Toudou.
Behind-the-scenes leaders never take responsibility in case of any
problems. The burden of guilt has always been on the direct performers.
Toudou didn't need to mention this.
"Well. In that case, I'll also talk to my friends. It was a useful time."
Thus Toudou notified that the meeting is over.
"In that case, can I leave you?"
"You can go."
Tatsuya deeply bowed, touching his forehead to the floor, and then stood
up. He sat on the bare floor (tatami) from the beginning, the seat cushion
(BUD) was not provided. Holding his face down, to not look at the
interlocutor, Tatsuya turned his back to Toudou and went out.

After seeing Tatsuya to the gate of the temple, Yakumo returned back.
Toudou waited for him to be in same posture with which he talked to
Tatsuya. Yakumo replaced Toudou’s cooled tea. While Toudou drinks
tea, Yakumo sat in front of him, waiting.
"And what do you really think about this conversation?"
As a sponsor of the Yotsuba family, Toudou Aoba had access to detailed
information about Tatsuya. It's impossible for Toudou not to see this
information. He also exhaustively studied information about Tatsuya
from external sources. Yakumo asked about the impression of their real
meeting.
"He's more broken than I expected."
Yakumo counted Toudou’s answer as "interesting".
"Have you been disappointed?"
"Even if it is broken, it does not mean that it cannot be used. For
example, even if the weapon has a broken fuse, the bullet will still fly
out if you pull the trigger."
"It depends on how you use it?"
"Although there is a danger."
Toudou looked into Yakumo’s eyes. His murky white left eye looked
directly into Yakumo’s soul.
"It seems that Your Excellency's power of Sight did not act on him."
"...Forgive me. It was unconscious."
"No, I don't mind."
Toudou Aoba hails from a Charmers family. If the data about his
pedigree was true, this was one of the oldest families of supernatural
power users in Japan.
But Yakumo knew that Toudou Aoba was not able to make full use of
his "eye", because instead of honing his skills as a caster, he chose the
way of fulfilling his family's responsibility to control the casters. If he
said it was unconscious, it is true, not an excuse. Yakumo easily accepted
Toudou’s apology.
"Like you said, I couldn't look deep into the heart of Yotsuba Tatsuya.
The Yotsuba, were able to create something interesting."
"Although it happened accidentally, but he is the final 'Product'."
Yakumo’s response paraphrased the expression Toudou used.
"Right." Toudou couldn't resist a stretched smile. However, he
immediately returned a serious face. "Kokonoe Yakumo. I want to ask
you something."
"Yes, what is it?"
There was still a light smile on Yakumo's face.
"In an emergency, will you be able to kill Yotsuba Tatsuya by your own
power?"
However, having heard the question Toudou, Yakumo, as expected,
could not continue to smile.
"Hmm... Based on the experience of the previous test, I would say that
the odds of winning are about 60%. If we include the outcome where we
knock out each other at the same time *, we will get 70%"
[The author uses the term from Kendo, which means a draw at simultaneous strikes. As I
understand it, Yakumo means that an additional 10% will be found if he is trying to beat
Tatsuya at the cost of his own life.]
Under the previous test, he meant the battle on the stone steps.
This wicked joke seems to have had such a hidden meaning.
"Even with all your skills is there only a 30% chance to leave with
nothing?" Toudou was genuinely surprised. But Yakumo’s answer had
not yet finished.
"No, the remaining 30% means my own defeat. The battle between this
inept monk and him cannot end with escape."
"...Are you saying that even you, known as the reincarnation of Casin
Koji, cannot escape?"
"Six months ago I would be able to escape... Yes, and now the odds are
just the same 60%. If it is a year later, this inept monk will not be able to
do it at all."
"Even so...?"
Such a kind of visage Toudou, probably, has not shown to anybody,
except Yakumo. Although the fact that Toudou gave Yakumo some slack
was also due to the fact that he was really shocked.
"Judging by his abilities surpassing those of this inept monk, there is
nothing to be surprised about. Among the young people with whom this
inept monk is familiar, there is only one person who can resist him.
And if you look around the world, these people will not get more than
the fingers on two hands."
"...Terrible times have come."
"And that's true... Your Excellency, another cup?"
"Fine."
Yakumo took the cup from Toudou and went to the stove. With skillful
movements he quickly brewed the tea, and then carelessly put the cup
back.
The old man Toudou carelessly, ignored the rules of decency, brought
the cup to his mouth and slowly drank.
"Thank you for the treat."
"Don't be grateful."
"Oh, yes. For some reason, only your skills of brewing tea do not
improve."
Due to the arrogant words of Toudou, Yakumo answered only with the
curve of a smile.
"I'll go."
Toudou stood up.
"I'll take you." Yakumo said, not getting up.
"You don't have to." Without turning around, the old man Toudou said
this, and opened the sliding door.

When Tatsuya returned to the villa in Izu from the temple of

Kyuuchouji, it was already around 10 o'clock in the evening. As soon as
he returned, he went to the TV screen, but he wasn't going to call Maya.
Time was already late. He only wanted to convey a short message that
"Consent was received", through Hayama or his assistant.
"...Tatsuya-san, did you want something?"
However, for some reason Maya suddenly immediately appeared on the
screen. Like she was waiting for a phone call.
"Sorry about the time. I just got back from Kyuuchouji temple."
He reflexively responded with an uninteresting formal phrase, but Maya
did not expect a witty answer from him.
"Clear. Good work. Did you meet His Excellency?"
"Yes. I got a project permit."
"Clearly..." Maya slightly screwed her eyes and looked at Tatsuya.
"...and what was demanded in return?"
Apparently, Maya also thought from the very beginning that in order to
get support from Toudou, he needed to give something in return.
The fact that she did not tell him in advance meant that she believed that
Tatsuya would do it anyway, so there would be no real harm, and so he
would not have to worry much.
"I was asked to act as a deterrent force against other countries."
"...in such a sense, does that mean that Tatsuya-san finally has to reveal
himself as a Strategic Class Magician?"
Maya's delusion was the same as that of Tatsuya. That's why it didn't
arouse a smile. Tatsuya thought she really believed that.
"No. There is no need to officially announce it now. His Excellency said
that he left all decisions to me."
"Everything to you? Oh, my... It's a serious responsibility."
Maya's thoughts were on the same path as Tatsuya. Was it because it was
the rational process of thinking, or because Tatsuya in general is very
similar to Maya...? These were the thoughts that now occured in the far
corners of Tatsuya’s consciousness.
"...In any case, the main thing is that His Excellency's consent has been
received. You can hold a press conference without changing the
schedule."
"Thank you very much."
Maya felt relieved after Toudou’s consent was received. Tatsuya also felt
relieved when he received that response from Maya. The experiences
that will be used by someone seem to be the same at the top and bottom,
when there is, in reality, someone else.
"By the way, Tatsuya-san, do you remember our conversation about
Miyakijima?"
In order to catch the suddenly replaced topic of conversation, Tatsuya
threw away all his superfluous thoughts and concentrated his
consciousness.
"Is this a conversation that was in the middle of April? When you said
that a new research center would be built on Miyakijima?"
"Yes, that's what I mean. I was thinking of partially changing this plan to
attract attention to the plant from Tatsuya-san’s project."
Tatsuya couldn't answer quickly.
"I also discussed it with Hayama-san. I think this is the best place for
Tatsuya-san’s project. How would you like that?"
"...Using the word 'attract', you mean as in third-party business
partners?"
His face did not show the feeling of alertness because all of this seems
too convenient for him, Tatsuya first of all asked a question that seemed
harmless. Upon hearing the question, the Maya smiled with a happy
expression on her face, as if she were saying, "Well, I guess he noticed."
"With the current scale of the project, only our own subsidiaries will
suffice to implement it, but I believe that with the prospect of the future
it is better to attract third-party assistants from the very beginning."
In this matter Tatsuya had the same opinion. If you run the factory only
with companies associated with the Yotsuba, it is highly probable that
the magicians involved there will also be only those who are under the
patronage of the Yotsuba. Then it will not be a "release of magicians",
but only "a new project for the Yotsuba".
"The area of the island is small, so, even if it becomes a virtual
autonomous region, not many will raise complaints about this."
With this opinion Tatsuya also agreed. Although it’s an area of 8
square kilometers, in fact, this was comparable to a small town, but
those who raise the noise of a "Mutant rebellion" or "the Kingdom of
Magicians" will only be a few.
"Well, how would you like that?"
"I think I should be grateful."
"In that case, can we begin with construction?"
"Yes. I'm counting on you."
Tatsuya had a vague sense of concern that his plan could be used for
some other purpose. But he convinced himself that it is necessary to give
priority to promoting the project.

CEO of the "Hokuzan groups", Kitayama Ushio ("Business name" —

Kitakata Ushio), has a great influence not only in business circles, but
also in politics.
It was not uncommon for him to hold meetings with the Government,
but in most cases, his schedule is adjusted according to his
circumstances, even if the schedule is planned in advance.
But on that day, on the last Thursday of May, Kitayama Ushio was quite
unexpectedly invited to a luxurious Japanese-style restaurant.
He cancelled all other plans and went to this restaurant because the
inviting partner was someone he could not refuse.
Toudou Aoba. The circle of people who knew the name of this shadowy,
influential man was limited. Unlike the famous "Traders of influence",
Toudou Aoba never openly went on stage. But those who benefited from
his name were aware that his abilities were undeniable.
Fortunately, Ushio was never threatened by the shadow activity of
Toudou.
However, the founder of a rapidly growing company, which competed
with Ushio, lost all his property as a result of underestimated the
influence of Toudou. He received a long prison term for an ordinary
crime, which in normal cases could not cause such problems, and was
deprived of the right to start a new business. Ushio considered it an
obvious demonstration to the rest.
"It is a great honor for me to be invited by you."
"I'm sorry I called you so suddenly."
Toudou Aoba was already 60, and Kitayama Ushio was in his early
fifties. Toudou’s tone was a little rough, but given the age of both, it did
not sound unnatural. But the difference in their attitude reflected not the
difference in their age, but the difference in the type of influence
(political influence and economic power) that they owned.
First, Toudou and Ushio killed a little time with the usual secular
conversation. But Toudou Aoba, it seems, was not so tactless as to
suddenly call one of the country's largest businessmen to just chat.
He was just worried about the eyes and ears of the waiter serving them.
The institutions used by such people as Toudou, are not only expensive,
but besides providing tasty food and drinks, their employees also
perfectly observe "the rule of the three monkeys" ( "do not look", "do not
listen", "do not say").
Perhaps the man who survived in the world of wiles and intrigues,
simply could not give up this superfluous vigilance.
"I called you today because..." After some time, Toudou began to speak
when the time for delicacies and sake were over. "...I want you to
support the business of a young man."
"Do you mean for me to invest in this novice business of this young
man?"
Such inquiries were not uncommon for Ushio. But he was interested in
it, because such a request was made personally Toudou himself.
"And who is this amazing man who has earned the attention of your
holiness?"
"You already know this guy. His official name from the family register is
Shiba Tatsuya."
"...Shiba-kun?" After a long pause, Ushio was able to speak only that.
To hear this name from the mouth of Toudou was quite unexpected for
him. "...Then this new business is something related to his inventions as
Taurus Silver? Or something related to a thermonuclear reactor?"
"The second. Shiba Tatsuya tries to release magician from the role of
weapons, giving them work to produce energy."
"I understand. I accept your proposal."
This time the answer was immediate. So much so that even Toudou was
a little confused.
"Don't you need time to think about it?"
Even after this offer, there was no doubt for Ushio.
"Your Excellency must know that my wife and daughter are also
magicians. My wife has been forced to live as a 'weapon' for a long time,
even though she has now retired."
Of course, Toudou knew about Benio, the wife of Ushio, and his
daughter Shizuku.
He looked forward to continuing the story.
"But if the war begins, not only my wife, but my daughter will be sent
to the battlefield. If it comes to a full-blown war, magicians, useless in
the workplace, can be forced to become a combat force. I'm afraid of
that."
"...But if we talk about the benefits, besides the war, there is still a
project, announced by the nearing States."
Naturally, Toudou did not really want to cooperate with "Project
Dione". These words were intended to show how serious Ushio is in his
statement.
"I don't want to sacrifice my wife and daughter. That is worse than
forced military use."
"Hou. Why do you think that?"
This question was no longer a test for Ushio, it proceeded from real
curiosity.
"... The essence of the 'project Dione', the expulsion of magicians in to
space. I do not know whether it is the will of America, the intrigue of
Edward Clark, or if it is done for some other reason, but it seems they
want to expel Shiba-kun from the earth. But the damage is not the only
thing. If the project is launched, the involved magicians will no longer
be able to live on Earth. The earth will cease to be their home. This is
the project."
The answer Ushio coincided with the conclusion that Tatsuya made.
And most likely, Ushio and Tatsuya were not exceptions. There are
probably many people who came to such conclusions about this project.
"Right."
Frankly speaking, Toudou also noticed the hidden target of the Dione
project.
"On the other hand, according to the project by Shiba Tatsuya, the area
where magicians will feel at home will only expand. Energy production
is necessary even during wartime. On the contrary, its importance is
growing.
When Shiba Tatsuya’s plant will be included in the state system of
power supply, they will not be so careless, as to throw magicians on the
front, causing a lack of energy. It’s well thought out."
And Toudou most valued "project ESCAPES" and Tatsuya for creating a
compromising relationship between the supply of combat power and the
supply of energy, which will create a situation where it becomes
impossible for magicians to be used as weapons.
In terms of National Defence, this is an unacceptable situation. But if
this was everything to the project, Toudou would have destroyed
Tatsuya’s project.
But Tatsuya agreed to become a deterrent force.
If the system of energy production with the nucleus in the form of a star
reactor spreads to the whole world, other countries will lose their
fighting power of magicians, and the relative military power of Japan
with a trump card in the form of Material Burst will only increase.
Although it was not clear yet whether someone comparable to Tatsuya
who could be a deterrent force would be born in the next generation, but
he will let the rulers of that time take care of it. Since Toudou lived in
the present, he took responsibility for the present. He has not
overestimated himself enough to be responsible for the future.
"I Agree."
Ushio was not particularly worried about the lack of combat power of
magicians. He wasn't a politician. He believed that if there is no magical
combat force, it can be compensated by a conventional combat force.
His company was not engaged in weapons, but if there was such a need
to protect his family, he would without any doubt begin to fully support
the military industry with his company.
"Could you tell me more about the Shiba-kun’s project?"
Tatsuya’s project corresponded to his interests. Ushio decided to meet
him. Usually whenever his family is concerned, his thinking lapsed
suspiciously. However, in such matters, Toudou was not going to
deceive him, and this should not be a problem.
"You'll ask him for details."
But now he could not deny that he doubted him too much.
"Really. Sorry for the rudeness."
Realizing this, Ushio sincerely bowed. Cooling his head, he sent his
consciousness to what he really had to check out here.
"Your Excellency. I wanted to ask you something."
"What's that?"
"What is the position of the Government regarding the project?"
Now, the whole world welcomes "project Dione". There is no country
that has officially taken an early position. He was afraid that the launch
of a plan, opposing "project Dione", can be regarded as a diplomatically
negative phenomenon. Toudou Aoba also understood this well.
"The Japanese government will not intervene."
He made his position clear by saying this.

Chapter 4

Friday, May 31, 2097.

Since the morning, numerous media representatives have rushed to the
main office of Four Leaves Technology.
Needless to say, their goal was a press conference held by "Taurus
Silver". The meeting was to begin at 10 o'clock, but as the crowd of
reporters and operators met in front of the building could interfere with
traffic and other people's work, the venue was opened earlier, at about 9
o'clock.
Even traditional large newspapers, usually without any interest in the
magic industry, organized several groups in the very first rows.
Although many of their colleagues had a conceited relationship, but for
a third-party observer, these colleagues were no different from the usual.
Their indiscriminate conversations died down when the staff responsible
for communication with the media came to the podium. The reporters,
holding their breath, watched the FLT employees perform last checkups
of the microphone and lighting.
The digital clock in the conference room showed 10 o’clock. The front
door of the conference hall opened, and Tatsuya and Ushiyama came to
the podium.
Under the clicks of the shutters Tatsuya stood in front of the microphone.
The chairs on the podium were not used.
Behind Tatsuya hung a big screen. On it appeared the description
"Stellar Furnace Energy Plant Project".
The conference room was filled with noise. These were voices
expressing doubt as to why the presentation of a new business project is
taking place. Not paying attention to the confusion of the assembled, the
responsible employee announced the beginning of the press conference.
"I am Shiba Tatsuya, and I am responsible for the development of
software for Taurus Silver projects."
"I am Ushiyama Kinji, and I am responsible for the development of
hardware for Taurus Silver projects."
The noise immediately increased. Media representatives gathered here
firmly believing that that this young man (although he was still a
schoolboy, the appearance of Tatsuya can be expressed by the word
"young man", and not "boy") in the suit was the real identity behind
Taurus Silver. But this man in the working jumpsuit also called himself
Taurus Silver. In the media camp, chaos began.
"...Uh, Taurus Silver is not the name of one developer."
As the reporters did not follow with questions, Ushiyama continued to
speak.
"It’s the name of the development team, consisting of him and me.
We have already updated the personal information about the applicants,
and you can confirm it at the patent office."
"...Why did you deceive the people so much?" When at last a hand was
picked, one of the female reporters asked this. In fact, they were
insensible words, which lacked respect for the interlocutor.
"We weren't going to cheat. Often applications for patents are filed
under the name of the firm, and even now it is common practice to keep
confidentiality of personal information about the individual members of
the group."
"B-but Taurus Silver is regarded as a brilliant engineer, who in just 1
year has advanced the development of CAD software by 10 years, and
your company did not deny it, right?"
"We have never confirmed excessive statements like 'brilliant engineer'
and other things like that."
The reporters had nothing to say to this irrefutable answer by Tatsuya.
"The reason for the confidentiality of personal information was that the
Youn-*... That Shiba is a minor. For that same reason, we refused to
hold an interview."
Ushiyama continued nervously.
[He almost misspoke, beginning to say, "Young master.]
The privacy of minors in the present period was a stable social principle.
The media couldn't go straight against it.
"Does this mean that what the mysterious man named 'The First Sage'
said in that message, was only half true?" Another reporter delicately
changed the subject, asking another question.
"Because Taurus Silver is the name of the team consisting of me and
Ushiyama, the message that Taurus Silver is me, Shiba Tatsuya, is
misinformation."
Tatsuya changed his first-person address to "Watashi" to seem impolite
to this media representative. After all, the content of the answer was a
direct attempt to quarrel with him.
"Misinformation on TV?"
"The news showed information different from the truth. That's called
misinformation, isn't it?"
"But the fact that you are Taurus Silver is true!"
There was a piercing hysterical scream from another part of the
conference room.
"...it was mentioned earlier that Taurus Silver is not the name of one
person."
Tatsuya turned to this reporter and answered him with a calm but
seemingly brazen voice. Objecting voices stopped.
"However, it is also true that we have caused confusion among people
around the world."
Here Ushiyama took advantage of the moment, and his awkward voice
wedged in to the conversation.
"Therefore, here and now, we are announcing the correct information
regarding Taurus Silver."
The conference room was noisy again.
"...What do you mean?"
"It means that we are terminating our activity as Taurus Silver." In this
sense, Tatsuya returned the obvious answer to the brave question.
"Does that mean you're stopping CAD development?" The question
came from a reporter from a single publication firm familiar with the
magic industry.
"Ushiyama will continue to develop CADs, and I'll do another thing."
Tatsuya said this and pointed his hand at the screen behind him.
"This is a new project for the organization and supply of Energy for
industrial and domestic needs, using a Stellar Furnace, or in other words
a thermonuclear reactor, which works with Gravity Control-Type
Magic."
Journalists began to talk indiscriminately within their groups. Tatsuya
silently stared at them until the noise died down.
"The design of the installation is not new." Tatsuya said this, so order
could return to the conference hall. Representatives of the press did not
interrupt his explanation.
"...the installation is planned to be built on a remote island or on the sea
surface. With the help of the power generated by the Stellar Furnace
reactor, hydrogen will be produced from the sea water, which will be
further sent to land.
We hope that together with the process of hydrogen production, we will
contribute to the purification of the marine environment by removing
harmful substances from sea water."
A simple animation appeared on the big screen showing the mechanism
of the installation. Comments on the animation were not told by Tatsuya,
but by an FLT employee.
After the animation was finished, the conference room filled up with
loud noise. A correspondent from an industry magazine raised his hand
as an interested person.
"...Are you not going to send electricity directly from the thermonuclear
reactor?"
"I think that many will be concerned about the stability of the Stellar
Furnace reactor, so first we decided to build a plant at a sufficient
distance from the urban area. Therefore, taking into account the loss in
the transmission of electricity at the far distance, I designed the scheme
of converting it into hydrogen fuel."
"I think that a significant number of magicians will be needed for the
operation of a thermonuclear reactor."
It was said by a reporter from a publication directly related to magic.
"You're right. Magicians participating in this project will be transferred
to the island or floating base, on which the plant with the presented
installation will be located."
"...Are you going to create an independent State of magicians!?"
This question was asked by a reporter from a newspaper that was usually
set up to be negative towards magic.
"Because of its peculiarities, the plant will not be able to function with
only one magician. The staff will include many non-magician
engineers."
"...In other words, do you mean that a minority of magicians will rule the
majority of ordinary personnel?"
"...The plant will be operated in compliance with all laws and
regulations."
Tatsuya could not restrain his habit of fighting for magicians. However,
he now gave a textbook answer, and at the present stage, when there was
no specific data, no one could continue to make false accusations.
"How do you respond to the request for participation in 'Project Dione'?"
This was a "cover fire", the question was asked in a provocative voice by
a reporter from the same company as the previous one.
"The request from the National Scientific Agency from the USNA was
about the participation of a schoolboy, calling himself Taurus Silver. But
a little earlier, 'Taurus Silver' ceased to exist, so I can no longer respond
to this request.”"
"These are empty excuses!" The reporter reflexively shouted in response to
the brazen words of Tatsuya.
Tatsuya himself considered it an empty excuse, so he was not embarrassed by
this exclamation.
"Did Mr. Edward Clark from the National Science Agency require me to
participate?"
This objection was also prepared in advance. It was a counterattack that the
reporter would not be able to answer with "Yes."
"But it's obvious that Mr. Clark meant you when he was talking about Taurus
Silver."
However, the reporter still persisted.
"Is that so?"
Tatsuya knew what the reporter said was true, but for the rest it was not so
obvious. Tatsuya did not answer with "Yes" or "no", he just answered with a
question. The reporter was just speculating. So when he was asked, "Is that
so?", he had nothing to say.
"Even if another invitation comes from the Dione project, I won't be able to
accept it. The project of a plant with the Stellar Furnace reactor has already
moved to the stage of choosing the place for construction. I don't have time to
participate in other major projects." Tatsuya summed it up.

Tatsuya’s press conference was broadcasted live on TV.

Speaking of TV, it was meant not to be covered by many large radio channels.
Rather than a small cable news channel. The target audience of this channel
were magicians and people interested in magic. It broadcast various news
related to magic, and was also known as the channel, broadcasting absolutely
all Nine School Competitions.
Kudou Minoru, who missed school because of his poor health, watched this
broadcast, sitting on his bed in his room.
"Tatsuya-san is so amazing..." said Minoru while sighing when the broadcast
was over. He turned the TV off and went to bed. There was a whirlpool of
admiration for Tatsuya in Minoru’s thoughts.
He also admired the plan for the energy plant with the nucleus in the
form of the "Stellar Furnace" (at the press conference, Tatsuya did not
use the name "Project ESCAPES").
He admired the power with which Tatsuya was able to overcome the
pressure of what made him an enemy to the world, and used the
heightened attention for his own purposes.
Minoru envied Tatsuya to the depths of his soul.
Tatsuya did not give up and, freely and unrestrictedly, use his wisdom
and power to fight society and the world.
And he, in comparison with this, only lies on this cramped bed, watching
other people's affairs. Which is unfortunate.
Minoru was thinking. That if he only had a healthy body...
Minoru was sure that he was not inferior to Tatsuya in mind or magic.
This was in no way overconfidence by Minoru.
Minoru assessed his abilities after he saw Tatsuya’s abilities. His ability
was recognized not only by himself. "His grandfather, Kudou Retsu, also
cherished his talent.
He successfully avoided feeling poorly at the Thesis Competition of last
year (although Tatsuya was in it but did not present), Minoru won there,
beating Isori Kei from First High and Kichijouji Shinkurou from Third
High.
When he remembered the Thesis Competition, he went through his
memories, one after another. The memories of the events that took place
less than a month before the contest came back to him.
About how they first fought together the next day, October 7th.
The next time they met was two weeks later, October 20th.
The day afterwards, he was bedridden from the heat and made it
uncomfortable for them.
On October 27th. Having closed Zhou Gongjin’s escape route, he
believed that he managed to repay the debt that he owed from when he
got ill.
Minoru remembered that entire day. After all, this was the first time
since his birth that he was useful to someone. So Minoru remembered
this day...
With these memories in his thoughts, Minoru did not notice how he fell
asleep.
In his dream he returned back to that day, October 27, 2096.
There was a guy in on the other side of Uji Bridge. In the dream, Minoru
observed himself from a stranger’s view.
From the car on which he stood, sparks and fire poured out.
Right before the engine exploded, he jumped out of the car and looked
intently at Minoru.
Minoru realized that he was Zhou Gongjin. This is what the dream
looked like from his view. He escaped along the Uji river, going in a
downward direction.
Then he was attacked by a "Girl" that suddenly appeared with a bob
hairstyle.
Despite the fact that this was a dream, he could clearly feel strong pain.
These memories, they should have not been known by Minoru. This
experience he should not have experienced.
Before him, Ichijou Masaki appeared, and behind him, Tatsuya.
Maybe he's rebuilding this scene in his imagination based on reports
from the incident? Minoro was covered in cold blood, despite the fact
that he was in a dream.
Masaki’s attack tore the inside of his shins of both legs. This time there
was no pain.
"I will not perish. Even if I die, my existence will continue!"
He thought he said this with his voice. Undoubtedly, one who dies like
this, holding such a thought, usually will wander in the world of the
living as a ghost. Minoru felt sympathy, having personally experienced
the last moments of Zhou Gongjin’s life.
But the dream was not over. Zhou Gongjin's consciousness continued.
Zhou Gongjin sailed up the Uji River.
Suddenly the dream came from Minoru’s point of view. Zhou Gongjin's
ghost was approaching him.
"Become one with me!" Zhou Gongjin shouted and flew at Minoru, who
was standing on the Uji bridge.
The surrounding landscape had disappeared. The bridge also vanished
from under his feet. Minoru hung in the air over the river.
Minoru realized that this was no longer a dream about the events that
occurred 7 months ago, but an event that is actually happening in the
present time.
Memories of the events of that time somehow brought him here.
More than six months later, Minoru realized that Zhou Gongjin’s ghost
drew his attention.
"Become mine!"
The fingers from both of Zhou Gongjin’s hands pierced his chest.
Although it is better to say "plunged". Something invaded him.
Although Minoru was aware of this, he was surprisingly calm.
Even for himself, it was unexpected that he was not afraid of this
"evil spirit" trying to capture him. He didn't have to be afraid because he
knew what to do.
Minoru quickly understood this. The thing that was trying to swallow
him was of the same essence and nature as the parasites.
He was an undisputed genius and the strongest user of magic in the
Kudou family. His brothers and sisters did not realize it. And his father
apparently would not admit it. But his grandfather certainly understood
it.
By the age of 16, Minoru had already mastered all the magic of the
Kudou family.
"Go away, Ghost."
Minoru used Mental Interference Magic. In this dream, magic is not used
on something physical, that’s why his magic was still going to work.
Coming out of Minoru’s "body", like the wind, a stream of luminous
particles burst out, and with this force, which was like a hurricane, blew
Zhou Gongjin’s "body" away.
In the world of Minoru’s dreams, he and Zhou Gongjin were both in
ghost bodies. Their minds existed in the form of ghosts.
He cannot be blown away using psions, like with "Zone Interference",
but Mental Interference Magic makes it possible to both attack and
defend.
Zhou Gongjin’s hands were separated from his "body". They were
immersed in Minoru’s body to the wrist and were submerged to the part
from where they were torn off.
"Give me your body."
Not frightened, Zhou Gongjin again flew to Minoru.
"Although it's not usable and a naughty body, I can't give it away.”
Minoru activated the following magic. From the darkness, lightning of
all colors of the rainbow appeared and surrounded Zhou Gongjin’s ghost
body. In this world, magic was called, which was worth thinking about.
Minoru felt more freedom compared to the real world.
"Give it to me..."
The Phantom body of Zhou Gongjin was now dark in several places, his
once graceful appearance was now covered with black spots, and the
body was lacking some parts.
"...I'm sorry, Zhou Gongjin. But it's time to finish this."
Minoru owned all the magic of the Kudou family. And together with this
magic, came the methodology to create a Parasite Doll. Including the
binding parasite Loyalty spell.
"Obey Me, Ghost. Become my food."
Minoru held Zhou Gongjin in his hands and he activated the magic for
enslaving Parasites.
The usual loyalty spell is arranged in such a way that if you comply with
certain conditions, compensation is provided. The compensation used in
the production of Parasites is to supply the Parasites with Psions which
are necessary to them.
The condition for this is absolute obedience. In case of disobedience, the
parasite is deprived of already absorbed Psions and needs to submit
again.
The compensation offered by Minoru is an existence within him. And the
condition is to be preoccupied. In other words, using the loyalty spell,
Minoru "ate" Ghost Zhou Gongjin.
"...Good work. Thank you for your knowledge."
Minoru felt like the "secret knowledge" associated with "Demons"
accumulated by Zhou Gongjin became his own.
Minoru in his sleep showed an "Angelic" smile. This smile undoubtedly
belonged to a messenger looking from heaven to earth, filled with
beauty, haughty and devoid of humanity.

Tatsuya expressed his gratitude to Ushiyama, who accompanied him

during the press conference, he thanked the staff that drafted the venue,
and was going to leave the main office.
He didn’t want to run into his father. He had no desire to meet him, and
his father obviously did not want to either. This assumption of his
father's feelings was not a mistake.
Because it was not a subordinate of his father that stopped Tatsuya, who
changed his clothes in the locker room and went to the underground
parking, trying to avoid the reporters at the main entrance, but by a
woman calling herself a member of the Magic Association.
"Is this going to be a long conversation?"
Tatsuya has no particular bad feeling towards the Magic Association, but
he asked because he wanted to leave this place as soon as possible.
And he did not underestimate the ability of the press to sniff around.
"It won't take long. I just need to get your answer..." The employee
timidly answered Tatsuya's question. The Magic Association sent not a
man but a young woman to give Tatsuya a better impression.
But it clearly had the opposite effect. She was frightened by the sight of
Tatsuya, as if she had very meager experience's with men (meaning no
sexual experience). When a person has no special tendencies, this is only
used to offend.
But Tatsuya also became awkward, because he had no hobbies like
scaring women for fun.
"In that case, get in the car."
But when he offered the employee of the Magic Association this, it was
impossible to fully say that this act was not a manifestation of revenge.
"Tomorrow afternoon...?"
The request of the Magic Association was that they wanted him to meet
Edward Clark at the Magic Association, who is going to arrive in Japan
tomorrow.
"Yes! In the afternoon, at any time that is convenient for Shiba-san!"
The employee begged Tatsuya in a desperate voice. Looking at her
condition, it was not possible to say, that she is not accustomed to men,
but it is possible to say that it is difficult to talk to men, or she could
even have androphobia [fear of men].
What was the Magic Association’s purpose for choosing such a woman?
This was an obvious mistake in choosing roles.
"It's a pretty sudden invitation."
"I'm sorry, please!"
The car was on autopilot, but Tatsuya was sitting in the driver’s seat,
according to the rules. And the employee of the Association was holding
the door of the front passenger seat.
Tatsuya decided to finish this conversation quickly, but not out of
compassion, but because of her irritating behavior.
"There's nothing to be done. Then I’ll be there tomorrow at 14:00, at the
Kanto branch."
"Is that fine?"
"I can't afford to refuse, can I?"
These words were not an attempt to bargain, but Tatsuya’s true
feelings.
Though not officially, Edward Clark asked for a meeting as a
representative of the USNA government. He decided in advance, that at
the end of the meeting, refusing to meet could have negative
consequences in diplomatic relations. Tatsuya was not so arrogant or
childish as to ignore it.
"T-T-thank you very much!"
The employee exaggerated her emotions too much. Tatsuya was no
longer able to tolerate this irritation. He stopped the car on the side of the
road and he kicked her out.

Tatsuya went to First High. Initially, he planned to go there immediately

from the main office of FLT. Although he did take a long route, he still
had the feeling that it took too much time.
He changed everything but his jacket into his school uniform in the
locker room at FLT. After changing the jacket from a business suit to the
long jacket of the school uniform, Tatsuya went not to the classroom, but
to the principal's office. There he told the school staff that he wanted to
meet with the principal.
It was almost noon, the lunch break was about to start. Usually, if
student asked to meet with the director at such a time, they will only be
reprimanded and kicked out of the office. But, as expected, the staff of
First High knew about the Tatsuya’s situation. In the current situation,
not knowing his circumstances would be strange.
Was the director's schedule accidentally free at that moment, or did he
send someone away when he heard about the visit? Tatsuya got into the
director's office very quickly.
"Thank you very much for taking the time for me, even though I came so
suddenly."
First of all, Tatsuya politely thanked him.
"I was watching the broadcast." Director Momoyama suddenly changed
the topic. "Did you refuse to participate in project Dione because you
had something on your mind when you told me?"
But once Momoyama asked this, it was easier for Tatsuya to answer.
"Right."
"...The project of a power plant with the Stellar Furnace reactor... Don't
you have a shorter version of the name?"
"...Given the planned location of the plant, it is unofficially called the
'Project for the extraction of marine resources and the elimination of
harmful substances from the coastal zone of the Pacific', or abbreviated
'Project Escapes' from the first letters of the words from the phrase in
English: 'Extract both useful and harmful Substances from the Coastal
Area of the Pacific using Electricity generated by the Stellar furnace.'.
"ESCAPES? This name cannot be used officially."
Momoyama quickly realized that this name contains the hidden meaning
of "Escape for magicians from military use."
"Yes. That is why at the press conference I called it a 'project for a power
plant based on a stationary Stellar Furnace'."
"Hmm... So how far have you gotten in this project?" Momoyama asked,
looking at Tatsuya standing in front of his desk. Standing there, most of
the students would respond with a trembling voice.
"...We have already started the actual implementation. It's not a sham to
escape from the Dione project."
Momoyama really suspected that this was a pretext for not participating
in the Dion project.
"...I believe you."
In itself, the word 'believe' was not proof of what he really believes with
all his heart, but Momoyama still said this to Tatsuya.
"Thank you very much."
Although you’re not involved in Project Dione he did not express this
directly.
"Now on to the condition of exemption from classes..."
"Release from classes is not canceled."
Momoyama interrupted Tatsuya’s speech.
"I can guarantee your graduation. And a recommendation to the
University of Magic too. So you should focus on Project ESCAPES."
"...Are you sure?"
The words of Momoyama sounded too suspicious to Tatsuya. The
exemption from the classes originally provided by Tatsuya was done
under the pressure of the USNA to make him participate in the Dione
Project. Now that Tatsuya has officially refused, Momoyama no longer
had to treat him in any special way.
"I think that Project Dione has a deeper meaning, giving an honorable
way of life to magicians. That's why I asked you to participate in it."
Momoyama implied that his special attitude towards Tatsuya was not
only because of the pressure of USNA. Tatsuya could not understand
whether this was true, or if it was to pretend that he succumbed to the
pressure of the government.
"But now I feel that your 'Project ESCAPES' also has a deeper meaning,
giving the magicians a peaceful way of life. According to my estimation,
its social significance is not inferior to Project Dione. So I don't think it's
necessary to change my attitude."
"...Thank you very much."
Even after these explanations, Tatsuya did not understand the true
motives of Momoyama, but, above all, he thanked him for the praise and
bowed.
"Good luck."
Bowing again in response to the words of Momoyama, Tatsuya left the
principal's office.
When Tatsuya left the director's office, it was still about 10 minutes
before the lunch break began . He initially planned to return to Izu, but
after a short hesitation, he went to the school council room.
He passed up to the highest room of the fourth floor, with such a route
that he would not to be seen from the classrooms in which classes were
now being held.
His ID card opened the door without any problems.
He was not absent for too long. Tatsuya did not feel particularly
nostalgic, he just took his usual place and turned on the terminal.
He checked the status of current events, since Miyuki and others had
promoted him to the School Board without much delay.
Working on cases that had nothing to do with his work, he didn’t notice
that the lunch break had begun.
Miyuki and the rest should come soon because they’re having lunch.
Therefore Tatsuya thought this, but contrary to his expectations, Miyuki
arrived even sooner than expected.
"Onii--, no, Tatsuya."
"Tatsuya-san?"
Miyuki was not alone. Both Honoka and Shizuku, who was not in the
Student Council, and second years Izumi, Kasumi and Minami came to
the school council room almost simultaneously.
"You can't say we haven't seen each other in a while, right?"
Today is Friday. Last time they met was near the gate of First High on
Monday. He’s doubtful that the greeting "Not seen for a long time"
came to this occasion.
And for Miyuki this "long time not seen" was all the more unsuitable,
because he communicates with her every evening.
"...You came to tell the school about today's press conference?"
Miyuki quickly recovered from the shock and gave an unexpectedly
correct guess.
"Right. How did you guess?"
"Given the press conference, I thought it might be related to it..."
As Miyuki said, she was informed in advance about what will be told
at today's press conference.
"Yes. I just talked to the principal. Although I declined to participate in
the Dione project, the release from classes still remains in effect."
"That means... What were you going to do here?"
Not only Miyuki, but Honoka was also somewhat nervous. It seemed
that they felt uncomfortable with his presence. Tatsuya had such an
impression. The ones gathered in the school council room were
Miyuki, Honoka, Shizuku, Izumi, Kasumi and Minami. All but
Tatsuya, were girls. Maybe they were going to talk about something
girly?
"No, this is... We were going to see the press conference here,
Tatsuya."
"...Got it."
When Tatsuya held the press conference, classes were still going on.
Conscientious students could not watch it live.
Miyuki probably recorded the broadcast on the school board's server.
The channel associated with Magic news definitely had a contract to
broadcast to the Magic Schools.
"Then I'll go to the library, call me when you go home."
Even Tatsuya was ashamed to watch his press conference on TV. As if
running away from it, he hurried out of the school council room.
After school, Tatsuya met with his friends in the school cafeteria.
Not only with Miyuki and others whom he met in the school board
room, but also with the rest of their regular company. Since he got here
by car today, it was impossible to go to the habitual café, located on
the way to school.
The students' views, directed at them from all sides, were annoying.
But today they could make an exception.
The recording of the press conference was shown not only in the school
board room. At lunchtime, the recording was also shown on the big
screen in the dining room. Many students watched the recording on their
personal information terminals. So everyone was interested.
"Tatsuya, I saw the conference."
Naturally, his friends also watched.
"Good job."
"Tatsuya-san, only you could think of that."
"I think it's really amazing. I'd have never thought of that before."
After Leo, this was said by Erika, Mizuki and Mikihiko. The reaction
was more open among his former classmates than among the school
board group.
Perhaps it was because they had no extra emotion.
"...Construction of a plant that generates energy using a Stellar Furnace?
Tatsuya. Doesn’t this have a simpler name, like an abbreviation?"
Leo asked something similar as Principal Momoyama. Perhaps many
have thought about this.
"There is an unofficial abbreviation, 'Project ESCAPES'."
"Who’s to escape? Where does the abbreviation come from?"
"Extract both useful and harmful Substances from the Coastal Area of
the Pacific using Electricity generated by Stellar furnace. E from
'Extract', S from 'Substances', C and A from 'Coastal Area', P from
'Pacific', E from 'Electricity' and S from 'Stellar'. Altogether, ESCAPES.
This translates to: 'Extraction of both useful and harmful substances
from the coastal zone of the Pacific Ocean using the electricity produced
by the Stellar Furnace.' "
"Ha-ha... I'm guessing you matched that word."
"Correct."
Leo, as usual, decided to show his uncharacteristic wit.
"Escape from what?"
"From military use."
Having heard the words of Tatsuya, before him the cheerfully smiling
Leo made a serious face.
"...Really?"
Leo is a magician developed as a weapon with an improved body. He
clearly realized that "escape from military use" is an "Escape from the
fate of magicians compelled to be a weapon."
Not just Leo. Minami, who is also such a magician, of course, also
understood this. The other members of the group also wore different
expressions. In particular, the faces of Honoka, Kasumi and Izumi froze.
These three were highly likely to have genes that had been modified in
the generation of their fathers and grandfathers.
"Yes, that's right."
Tatsuya did not conceal this intention. Friends would understand it, so
there was no reason to hide it.
"You have to succeed, no matter what it takes." Mikihiko said in a
serious voice.
"It's going to be all right, it's Tatsuya-kun."
Erika tried to blow away the tense atmosphere, and cheer everyone up.
Their expression softened when they heard her.
"Right. If it's Tatsuya-san, it's going to be all right."
"You said you had to choose a place. And when will the construction
actually begin?"
After Honoka, whose speech not only expressed confidence, but was
closer to religious belief, Mizuki asked about a specific schedule.
"The project has already started."
"Huh? Then what about school...?"
"Although my exemption has not changed, I plan to go back to school,
when the situation will calm down a bit." With a slight smile Tatsuya
answered the wide eyes of Mizuki.
"Is that so? Thank God..."
Honoka exaggerated her relief. This behavior caused all of them to
smile.
"Tatsuya-san."
Tatsuya turned to Shizuku, sitting next to Honoka.
"What's that?"
"My father wants to meet you."
Kasumi rounded her eyes from Shizuku’s words. It was easy to guess
what she had mistakenly thought, but the real meaning was, of course,
different.
"I think it's about the project."
"I got it. When can I come?"
Tatsuya immediately guessed that this was the work of Toudou.
But he did not show this, asking Shizuku with a serious expression on his
face.
"He said he'd be happy to meet on Sunday."
"At what time specifically?"
"The exact time has not been assigned."
"In that case, how about I bother you around the afternoon, say, 1
o’clock?"
"I think that's going to be all right. I'll call you if the circumstances
change."
"Yes, that’s fine."
Thus, this simple coffee break accidentally became a significant event for
Tatsuya.
As a result, Tatsuya didn’t go to the villa in Izu, rather he went to the
new house in Chofu.
Tomorrow he was to meet Edward Clark at the Kanto branch of the
Magic Association, and the day after tomorrow he was going to visit
Shizuku’s house. So returning to Izu was ineffective.
This will be the first time Tatsuya stays overnight in the building in
Chofu.
Miyuki was more excited about this fact than Tatsuya. No, to be more
precise, Tatsuya did not worry at all. Miyuki was the one that worried.
"Tatsuya-sama, Miyuki-sama, sleep well."
"Yes, good night."
"Good night, Minami-chan."
The upper floor of the building was fully occupied by the residence of
Tatsuya and Miyuki. Its structure was the same as that of an ordinary
mansion, and it had several different rooms with separate entrances.
There were separate entrances to the rooms of Tatsuya and Miyuki, and
a separate entrance to the room where Minami lived. ...In other words,
Minami "changed her work" from "maid who lives in the employer's
home" to "Maid on Demand".
In other words, it meant that Tatsuya and Miyuki would spend the night
alone in their residence. For Miyuki this was a situation where she
could not help but be excited.
"Onii-sama."
Miyuki changed Tatsuya to "Onii-sama" Ever since they got into the
car, and only “they” were around.
But that didn’t start today. Even in phone calls, she called him that.
She acted the same way she acted on the Saturday night at the villa in
Izu.
For her, it was not something she was consciously aware of. As Miyuki
said, it is more natural for her to call him "Onii-sama". Since that day, 5
years ago, in the summer, in Okinawa.
"Go to the bathroom first."
"Alright."
Miyuki advised him to go to the bathroom after Minami left, not
because they were arguing with each other, but because she should be
doing housework.
The bath was fully automated, from cleaning to filling it with hot water.
There was a similar bath in their old house. But in the new house, the
automation was a step higher. You could take a bath without doing
anything with your own hands. Tatsuya figured this out when he
entered the bathroom.
For a moment Tatsuya seriously thought about whether or not it is
necessary to just use the "human washing machine" (Fully automated
shower cabin), because this bathroom corresponded to the luxurious
layout of these apartments and was equipped with not only a huge
bathroom, but also with an ample place to wash. As a result, he decided
to wash in the traditional way.
But even if "Traditional" was said, everything around him was also
automated.
"Shower."
After washing his hair it was not necessary to spend time looking at the
shower head to touch it. After the voice command, the shower poured hot
water.
When Tatsuya washed away the shampoo and stretched his hand behind
the washcloth to wash his body, he felt something from behind, on the
other side of the door to the bathroom, it was a sign of human presence.
He didn't feel any stress. Although his back was to the door, it was clear
to him that it was Miyuki, as clearly as if he had seen her right in front of
him.
"Onii-sama."
The one that was tense was Miyuki. Her voice was indecisive.
"What happened?"
He had absolutely no idea why she was here. No, he didn't understand
the reason she talked to him while he was washing.
"...Let me wash your back."
(What?)
He had no difficulty in hearing what Miyuki said. But he couldn't
understand. And he still didn't understand.
(Wash your back? Who? by whom?) It was very unusual that Tatsuya got
confused by such superfluous thoughts.
"I’ll wash your back."
Whether she lost her patience because no answer came, or she saw a
chance in the absence of a refusal. Miyuki opened the door to the
bathroom. Tatsuya strongly regretted not having locked the door.
But it was too late. Miyuki’s steps were heard. Tatsuya couldn't look
back. Luckily, he was able to quickly grab the towel hanging next to
him. With the help of this he managed to hide the part below the waist.
It felt like Miyuki was very close. He did not know what she was doing
now.
After thinking ‘what if there was a mirror’, Tatsuya hastily threw away
that thought. There was one there, a mirror. Right in front of Tatsuya.
However, its surface was covered up by condensation. Tatsuya thought
he was lucky for not having the habit of bathing in front of a mirror.
"Onii-sama, I beg your pardon..."
Miyuki’s white hand stretched forward to the side of Tatsuya’s head and
grabbed a sponge. For an instant Miyuki’s breasts touched his back.
Thought Tatsuya was nervous, eventually he was relieved, when he
realized that the touch was not bare skin, but from a towel.
A soaped sponge clung to his back. Not only the sponge though, the thin
fingers of Miyuki also touched his back.
I
"Miyuki, why are you so suddenly...?" Tatsuya could no longer keep
silent and asked without turning.
"Am I making you uncomfortable...?"
"No, there is no inconvenience."
In fact, he was very uncomfortable. But Tatsuya knew he didn't have to
say that here.
"Thank God..."
Miyuki’s voice, which sounded like she was concealing tears of joy,
confirmed that there would be a great amount of trouble if he said
something else.
"...But that's probably enough."
The fingers touching his back trembled a little.
"...Even if it’s a little, but I want to be there for you."
Her voice also trembled with shame.

"We haven't been together lately... Is that a bad thing?" Miyuki

whispered with a sweet voice. She whispered these affectionate words.
"...No." Tatsuya muttered, as he was wondered if she was being
manipulated. Maybe it was someone's hobby, but the bath in the new
house was 2 times longer than the usual bathrooms.
In this bathroom, Tatsuya and Miyuki now sat together. ...Back to back.
Neither Tatsuya nor Miyuki had the courage to turn their face.
But even if the bath was long, there was not enough space for two
people to be in there at the same time. At the moment, Tatsuya is taller
at 180 centimeters, while Miyuki is taller than the average women.
Moreover, Miyuki had long legs uncharacteristic for Japanese people.
When they entered the bath, they both took their towels off.
Even Tatsuya could not remain calm when the bare skin of their backs
touched. And Miyuki’s face was red not just because of the hot water.
"...Onii-sama. How long are you going to stay here?" Miyuki asked,
attempting to make her voice sound the same as usual.
"I'm going back to Izu on Sunday night."
The voice of Tatsuya, on the contrary, was solid.
"You can still return to First High... Can't you?"
"I don't know how the USNA and the New Soviet Union will behave. I
think we need to observe the current situation a little bit more first."
"That’s true..." murmured Miyuki with unconcealed disappointment in
her voice.
But she didn't say something selfish, like, “Come back soon.”
"Can I... come visit you again in Izu?"
"Of course. I'll be happy to see you at any time, unless of course it hurts
your studies."
"Well, Onii-sama. You sound like a parental guardian?"
"Isn’t it natural for me as brother to be a guardian? Being a fiancée
doesn’t change that."
Miyuki unwittingly giggled from this inept joke by Tatsuya.
"Well, Onii-sama is the only one I can rely on."
"Leave it to me."
Miyuki’s words contained an unpleasant undertone that she "cannot rely
on her father", but Tatsuya pretended not to notice. Such care will only
be painful for Miyuki.
"Sunday... Can I go with you to Shizuku’s house?"
"Well... It would be better if you were was there."
Miyuki was a little surprised, because Tatsuya suddenly spoke in a
serious voice.
"You mean... that I need to attend during your personal conversation
with Shizuku’s father?"
"...I am welcoming the first sponsor of my project, which can become
the work of our entire life. I think it will be better if you come too."
The work of our whole life. Miyuki could not misunderstand the
meaning of these words.
"All right, Onii-sama..."
Miyuki enthusiastically nodded and plunged under the water.
"Miyuki? Are you okay?"
Tatsuya timidly asked this, because the sensation of Miyuki’s back,
which previously had barely touched him, suddenly became a snug fit.
Miyuki tightly leaned her back against Tatsuya.
If this was intentional, it is already a little bit beyond what can be
stopped with a simple smile.
But what if it wasn't intentional?
"...What do you mean with 'OK'...?"
The voice of Miyuki, answering the question of Tatsuya was softer.
...That's not good, Tatsuya thought, did Miyuki overheat in the hot
water?
"Miyuki, you better get out of the water now."
"...That’s true..."
In response to his warning, Miyuki only nodded and said this with a
helpless voice. There was no sign of movement.
...What to do? Carry the naked Miyuki with his hands was really the
last resort.
If he calls for help from Minami, then he must first get out of the bath.
In the current situation it will be quite difficult to get out of the bath
without touching Miyuki’s body. In addition, he feared that Miyuki
could simply go under the water, if he were to remove his support.
Tatsuya, you might say, was confused.
As a result, it took him more than a minute before his mind came to the
idea of pulling the water out of the bath.
...Fortunately, on this day neither Tatsuya nor Miyuki caught a cold
from sitting in the hot water for too long.
Chapter 5

Edward Clark came to Japan and was met with a lot of reporters. The
fuss was not like a diplomatic visit, but more similar to a private visit of
a famous actor.
The reason for this was that Edward and Raymond did not even try to
hide from the public. Rather, they, on the contrary, tried to raise the
hype in the media.
But they did not give news organizations and such services a press
conference or an interview, and as a result, under the protection of the
police, they left the airport.
They went to the Embassy of the USNA. This could not be called
strange, because Edward Clark is a member of the State institution.
Reporters and journalists knew about this, and most of them were
standing behind them, looking at the shadow of the Government of the
USNA in the back of Clark.
At 13:30 they flew from the embassy by helicopter, and at 13:50 arrived
on the roof of the Bay Hills tower in Yokohama, where the Kanto
branch of the Magic Association is located.

Tatsuya arrived at the Kanto branch of the Magic Association 5 minutes

before the scheduled meeting time. Despite the fact that he was told that
Edward Clark was waiting in the waiting room, he showed no haste.
Because he was forced to suddenly change his plans just a day ago.
Initially, Tatsuya intended to let Clark wait about an hour.
But he still arrived on time... Perhaps he was much more attached to the
notion of 'common sense' than he thought himself.
"Nice to meet you. My name is Shiba Tatsuya."
Tatsuya, who was brought to the meeting place by a branch employee
(but not the one he met yesterday), spoke with Edward in Japanese.
Maybe it was childish behavior and to put up some form of resistance.
"Nice to meet you. My name is Edward Clark."
Unexpectedly, Edward greeted him in fluent Japanese.
"It is a great honor for me to meet you."
But Tatsuya did not lose the ability to speak and continued in what is to
be considered in this case, an insolent conversation in Japanese.
By the way, using his peculiar memory, Tatsuya did "remember
anything that he at least saw or heard once", he almost perfectly
mastered not only the English language, but also the languages of most
major countries.
"The same goes for me."
Edward, who answered without removing his smile, looked like a
perfect liar, which did not fit his mediocre appearance.
His appearance in a neat suit and beautifully slicked blond hair, together
with a standard figure that is not considered thick or thin standing 180
centimeters tall, created the impression that he is not a scientist or
engineer, but a senior manager of a sales department. No, not even a
private company salesman, but one for a government agency?
Undoubtedly, his appearance was not the only thing. Although Edward
Clark was originally considered an engineer, the role he is now playing
is exactly that.
Although Tatsuya was offered a chair, he sat on the couch without any
hesitation. For the employees of the branch, this was of noticeable
concern because of the presumptuous behavior of Tatsuya, but Edward,
and for some reason, Raymond did not show a drop of anxiety and sat in
front of him.
"I watched the press conference yesterday. Mr. Shiba, your energy plant
project surprised me."
Edward was the first to speak.
"Thanks. But it is far below 'Project Dione' in terms of space and time. I
think that this is a great project that I cannot complete in my entire
lifetime."
"How humble."
Tatsuya's words were hard to understand, because they were filled with
sarcasm.
He implicitly pointed out that magicians would be cut off from the
human community both in time and in space for Project Dione. By the
expression on Edward's face it was impossible to determine whether he
understood this hint.
At least, the staff of the Magic Association, present as observers, looked
as if they could not understand. If Edward was able to maintain his
"Poker Face" after realizing this, then he is undoubtedly a villain.
"So the Stellar Furnace is a fusion reactor using Gravity Control Type
magic?So you designed it for the use at the power plant?"
"Yes. The completed form will have a design that uses the sea water
directly."
The expression on Edward's face moved slightly. It proved that he
understood the hint of Tatsuya that "Therefore it cannot be used in outer
space".
"...The construction of a power plant using the Stellar Furnace is
certainly a significant project for Japan. But the terraforming of Venus is
a hope for all mankind. I would like Mr. Shiba, having achieved
numerous technological breakthroughs as Taurus Silver, to join the
Dione project."
Whether Edward had lost his patience, or he had planned so from the
beginning, but he suddenly voiced the main requirement.
"I think, after looking at the yesterday’s press conference, you realized
that I'm not Taurus Silver. But I don't have to tell you what you know
already."
The last sentence of Tatsuya contained the sarcasm "You have studied
the question with the help of Hliðskjálf, so you should know." The
existence of this backdoor to Echelon III Tatsuya had heard of from
Raymond. This fact must also be known by Edward.
"The glory of Taurus Silver comes from phenomenal achievements in the
field of software. In other words, Mr. Shiba is the essence of Taurus
Silver."
"Whatever the software is, without its hardware, it is just plain text. In
the relationship between 'soft' and 'hard', there is no specific claim which
is the main part and which is the secondary."
"That's not true. Hardware without a program is just an empty shell."
"However, the actual work is done by equipment."
Raymond poked his father in the side with his elbow, and Edward
coughed unnaturally. Noticing that, Tatsuya took the conversation in a
different direction, he tried to start from the beginning.
"...The team, called 'Taurus Silver', broke up yesterday, so I will refuse
the request of their participation. Instead, I would like to ask you here
again. Mr. Shiba, would you take part in the Dione project?"
"I'm sorry, but yesterday I already took responsibility for the project of
the energy plant using the Stellar Furnace. If you hadn't asked for Taurus
Silver's participation from the very beginning, and had you went to me at
once, I had an option to leave the project of the plant to other people... I
can only say that this is bad luck. I'm sorry, but you'd better retreat."
Tatsuya responded with a clear rejection of Edward Clark's demand right
before the staff of the Magic Association.
After that, a series of similar questions and answers happened between
Edward and Tatsuya, but eventually Edward could not convince Tatsuya.
Edward knew that Tatsuya would not agree. But he miscalculated that he
could not even put Tatsuya in a disadvantaged position, and take any
advantage of him.

"I knew that the usual methods would not help... But I did not expect
such a stubborn stance."
"Dad, what are you going to do now?"
Now these two were in the hotel room provided by the Embassy of the
USNA. The two rooms next door had bodyguards. This could be called
an unprecedented case where the staff of the organization associated with
the government were treated as VIPs. It proved once again that Edward
Clark is not a simple engineer.
"Perhaps this goal cannot be achieved peacefully."
Edward was not going to ask what his son thought.
"I think killing is the last resort."
Raymond showed no attempt to morally evade the possibility of his
father dirtying his hands with evil deeds.
The lack of secrets between them may have been due to good relations
between son and father, but from a side of human upbringing, their
relations differed greatly from the social standards. Perhaps Edward
believed that, in general, that moral aspect could be ignored the moment
he gave Raymond Hliðskjálf.
"But we have to consider this option if we cannot neutralize him with the
help of the Dione project."
For Edward, the purpose of the Dione project was not to develop Venus
and make resettlement there a possibility, which is possible if Venus is
to be terraformed. The real goal was to completely neutralize Shiba
Tatsuya. And therefore neutralizing the Strategic Class Magic
"Material Burst".
"But, like you said, it's a last resort. Tomorrow I'll give an interview on
TV. The public opinion of the Japanese should be ignited."
"And looking at the result of this, we can come up with our next move?"
"That's right, Raymond."
"Dad?"
Raymond saw Edward frown after he nodded, so he turned to him.
"The New Soviet Union may decide on the power approach, without
waiting for the plan regarding public opinion to be triggered..."
Edward was concerned about what step the New Soviet Union would
make, and, more precisely, what Igor would do.
"If their 'power approach' ends halfway, then Shiba Tatsuya can get the
data for a counterattack. So I want you to be careful for a while..."
"Would you like to study this question using Hliðskjálf?"
Edward shook his head after hearing the suggestion of Raymond.
"Rumors say that the New Soviet Union built a system of reverse
detection in opposition to Echelon III. I do not think that they will be
able to catch on to Hliðskjálf, but... We must not risk ruining the current
cooperating relationship with Igor."
"I got it, dad."
Raymond seemed disappointed, but still agreed with Edward's protest.
"So I'm free tomorrow?"
"Don't go too far. Right, just in case, tell me, what are you going to do?"
"I think I'm going to visit Tear."
"Tear? Ah, the daughter of the Kitayama family?"
Edward briefly paused, counting the advantages and disadvantages of
deepening ties with the relatives of the owner of the "Hokuzan group”,
known even in the USNA.
"...Why not? You can go."
"Yes, I got it."
Raymond went into his bedroom with a brisk step. He was probably
going to call Shizuku. Edward gave his son a glance with a smile.

On Sunday, a meeting between Tatsuya and Shizuku’s father, Kitayama

Ushio, ended in a short time and in a peaceful atmosphere.
Help from Ushio for "Project ESCAPES" confirmed the words of
Toudou Aoba about his connections. And Toudou did not force him to
do it. Providing magicians with non-military jobs corresponded with the
wishes of Ushio.
At the current stage it was still early to talk about the costs of
construction and operation, so today Tatsuya finished with explaining
the details of the project to Ushio, which he did not tell at the press
conference.
"I heard a lot of interesting things. This has been a useful time."
Ushio in an elevated mood helped Tatsuya and Miyuki to the exit from
the living room.
"If the energy of the Stellar Furnace will serve not only for the
production of hydrogen, but also for the extraction of lithium, cobalt and
uranium, it would be quite profitable. There are companies in our group
that are looking for resource collection from sea water, so I'm thinking
of letting you look at their research material."
"Thank you."
Although the knowledge and reasoning of Tatsuya in Magic Engineering
were at the highest level, his knowledge of the industry, after all, was at
the level of a regular student. The production secrets that will make a
profit from the extraction of resources are what Tatsuya wanted to learn
the most. The firm promise of comprehensive cooperation with Ushio
was a huge step forward for Tatsuya.
"Oji*, can we see Shizuku?"
[Polite appeal to a middle-aged man. Something like "Uncle " (not the one that's a
relative).]
The fact that friends of his daughter came to ask for help together greatly
softened the attitude of Ushio. As expected by Tatsuya, (or it would be
better to say "as he planned"), the presence of Miyuki proved useful.
"My daughter will be happy if you do."
Ushio smiled widely, responding to the request of Miyuki to meet with
Shizuku.
"Mr."
At this point in their conversation, a kind maid wedged in.
"What is it?"
"Shizuku-Oujosama currently has a guest."
"A guest...? Yes, now that I think about it, I've heard something like
that."
"That's not a problem. Then maybe another time.”
"That's not a problem."
After hearing about the visitor, Miyuki tried to abstain modestly, but
Ushio stopped this.
"...This guest is a student whom Shizuku met while studying abroad...
Yesterday he suddenly said he wanted to meet. It sounded absurd, and I
already wanted to give up, but I couldn't do it because he said he was
going back to his country soon. He is relevant to you, this guy. So I
thought you'd be aware of the situation."
"...A person who is relevant to me?” After hearing the words of Ushio,
Tatsuya asked instead of Miyuki.
"This guy's name is Raymond Clark."
With the information network of the owner of a large group of
companies, he should know the meaning of the surname "Clark".
Tatsuya finally understood what Ushio meant
"All right, Oji. We'll meet them." Bowing down, Miyuki answered.
"Understood. You, take them to my daughter's room." Ushio
immediately commanded the maid.
Everything went as smoothly as if it was a pre-made scenario.
Shizuku met Raymond not in her room, but in the tearoom.
The door of the tea room was open. Although there was a servant
nearby, Ushio would not allow her daughter to stay alone in a closed
room with a guy around the same age. Although it could be an order
from Shizuku’s mother.
"Shizuku, I'm sorry for the intrusion."
"Ah, Miyuki..."
Hearing the voice from the hallway, Shizuku turned to the door. Was it
just their imagination that she looked relieved?
"Raymond Clark. Sorry about the intrusion."
"Shiba Tatsuya... Yes, come in."
Raymond was stunned by the invasion of Miyuki and Tatsuya, but after
Tatsuya called him, he answered with a smile.
"Yesterday we could not communicate easily. It's a good thing we met."
Raymond switched his attention to Tatsuya.
"You wanted to talk to me?"
Isn't he here for the courtship of Shizuku? Tatsuya thought, but he was
also interested in what Raymond would say, so he sat in front of him.
Shizuku, sitting opposite to Raymond, moved to a place on the side of
the table before Tatsuya answered Raymond.
Miyuki sat between Tatsuya and Shizuku.
"I wanted to hear your opinion."
Ignoring Miyuki, Raymond answered Tatsuya.
"Listen, Tatsuya."
Raymond easily called Tatsuya as if they were friends. Well, at least it
was better than using embarrassing names like "God of
Destruction" (The Destroyer), so Tatsuya decided to keep quiet.
"...The project of the energy plant with the Stellar Furnace... Uh, does it
have a simpler name?"
"You would already know if you did your research."
"You've already researched this with Hliðskjálf," there was a hint of
sarcasm in Tatsuya's answer to Raymond's question.
"Even if I understood, I did not have time to watch the press conference."
Raymond sulked and looked. Tatsuya was not amused to look at the
inflated face of a guy, and he easily told him about the name of project
ESCAPES.
"Project ESCAPES? I mean... Okay."
Raymond stopped his question because he intuitively realized that
instead of "escapes", Tatsuya gives more meaning to the word "escape".
"Are you seriously planning on working on Project ESCAPES?"
"Everyone's asking me that." Tatsuya declared, looking tired.
"Project ESCAPES is not a simple excuse to avoid Project Dione.
The first thing to consider is that this project was invented before you
wanted to terraform Venus." He answered Raymond with a voice in
which there was not a single drop of friendliness.
"It is cruel to call it... an invention."
"So you really want to terraform Venus?"
Raymond, who tried to object to Tatsuya, was cornered with this new
question.
"Real resettlement will be possible not after just 10 or 20 years. The
elapsed time will be measured in centuries. It will be necessary to invest
money and efforts for many generations. I don't think the USNA has any
motives to take this huge project seriously. No, not just the USNA. I do
not think there is single country with enough motivation on this planet.
If anyone can take on such a grandiose project, then only the world
government could, right? I think that's the way it is."
"...The plan of settling on Mars is also advancing as an age-old project."
"It is only planned. The methods of movement are not even defined yet."
"Don't you think that such a grandiose project is just to force the creation
of a world government?"
After seeing the situation worsen, Raymond changed his selection of
arguments.
"If we forcibly unite the world, the usual wars will only turn into a civil
war."
But even this ended with another argument from Tatsuya.
"...Doesn't Tatsuya have a dream?"
"I only prefer dreams that can be realized."
Even after this pretext, Raymond's heart remained steadfast.
"But then there will no longer be any romance."
But Raymond did not have the spirit for this. It seems that the words of
Tatsuya will only be something "holy" to him, something that Raymond
cannot yield to.
"When it can be done, it ceases to be a dream. But when you do not
know whether it will be realized or not, it can be called a dream."
"You're a romantic. Does this mean that Project Dione is only a romance
for you that neglects the possibility of failure?"
"A man of magic, with the power of thought, will fly into space. Isn't
that romantic?"
"Why should I be responsible for that?"
"...Huh?"
Raymond froze with surprise on his face.
"To go into space by using magic. I'm not against this dream. But this is
your dream? There's no reason for me to help."
"This is..."
"The reason you want to tie me to Project Dione is not for chasing that
dream. This is based on more realistic calculations."
"... I got it. Then let's talk about realistic things."
It seemed that Raymond had already lost the dispute, but he showed an
unexpected persistence.
"Thanks to the development of the ocean, we can sustain the current
capacity of the Earth for some time. But the limits of the earth are finite.
Even if they will be expanded, but one day the final limits will be
reached, which cannot withstand the growth of the population of
mankind."
"I do not deny such a future."
"In this case, space exploration is a reality that we should not turn away
from just because it is difficult! For humanity to continue its prosperity,
we must go into space as long as we still have the strength to do so."
"Why will space exploration be the solution to population growth?”
"Huh...?"
Raymond now had an expression on his face, indicating that he did not
understand completely.
"...But isn't that a solution? The land has a limitation of capacity, so you
need to go beyond that land..."
Raymond was perplexed to argue with a confused voice.
"Space also has a limited space."
"Is... Maybe it is. But..."
"And space suited for human life is even more limited."
" ..."
"Even the exploration of space cannot escape these limits. Humankind
can only delay the time before we hit these limits."
"...These are empty excuses."
"If we only extend the time to reach these limits, we must work on what
we can already do."
"...This is sophistry with extreme arguments! Space has no real limits!
With Magic, humanity will endlessly conquer new frontiers!"
"However, the goal of the ESCAPES project is not to respond to
population growth."
"..."
"I'll complete the Stellar Furnace and implement the plant to reach my
goal. You strive into space to reach your goal. If that's your real goal."
Without finding the words to refute this, Raymond slowly stood up with
the face of the defeat.
"Tear, I'm sorry. I’m going to go."
"Okay."
"...Tatsuya. We'll never let you escape."
"I'm not going to let you catch me."
"I would like to see the day when you regret these words. ...All right,
Tear. I'll see you again."
Raymond, while leaving, only looked towards Shizuku.
"... Yes. Ray, I'll see you later."
Sadly smiling after he answered Shizuku, he went out through the door
that was left open.
In the tea room, though there was no oppressive mood, an unpleasant
residue remained. To change the atmosphere together with the air,
Shizuku asked the maid to open the window.
Using the remote control, she turned on the TV. It was also to change
the mood, but the transmission, which was shown by TV, could give the
reverse effect.
"Shizuku, leave it, please." Tatsuya stopped Shizuku, who wanted to
switch the channel.
Edward Clark's interview on the screen continued.
"...Thus, if we talk about the true significance of the use of magic for the
future of people, it should be used for the exploration of space."
Edward on TV spoke English, but his speech was synchronously
duplicated with subtitles.
"I believe that the Magic thermonuclear reactor is a wonderful
invention. But it should be used in places where it is difficult to
replenish fuel reserves, and sunlight is unstable. For example, on the
moons of Jupiter. It will be able to produce electricity steadily even
when the satellite is going into the shadow of Jupiter because of its
circulation around it."
"The period between the Ganymede circulation is only 7 days.
Even the Callisto one is a little less than 17 days." Tatsuya muttered in
an ironic tone. Of course, his voice did not reach the place that was on
the other side of the TV screen.
"The development of the ocean can be carried out by other technologies,
not using magic. The necessary power for industry can be achieved by
using the electricity generated by oceanic solar power plants and
geothermal sources. A rare talent, called magic, should be used for more
meaningful purposes."
"He almost says the same things we just heard, isn't it?"
In the voice of Miyuki with which she asked Tatsuya, there was no irony
or aversion, but only naïve simplicity.
"Maybe it's because they're father and son?"
"Father and son?"
Shikoku looked a little amazed.
"I have not confirmed it through third-party official agencies, but there
are no mistakes."
"That means how..."
"Shizuku, did you not know? Didn't you have a welcoming party at their
home or something like that when you were an exchange student?"
The Tatsuya’s question was based on the prejudice that in America,
compared to Japan, they arranged parties at home a lot more often.
"Ray didn't have a party at his home."
Truthfully, Shizuku was often called for parties during her exchange
studies. But America does not seem to be different from Japan in that it
all depends on the particular family and the particular person, how much
the parent will interfere in the relationship of their child with his friends.
"I would like Shiba Tatsuya-san to take part in our project in order to
open the future for mankind. I hope so."
Speaking on TV, Edward emphasized public principles. Tatsuya, who
knew his true motives, grinned at hearing these words.

Chapter 6

As of 2097, from the ten research institutes that were used for the
development of magicians’ abilities, located at different locations across
the country, that were open in the 2030s, half are still working and the
other half are closed. However, three of the five officially closed
laboratories continue to work, having changed their name and their
superiors.
Built in Nara, the former Ninth laboratory (the former Ninth Institute for
the Development of Magicians' abilities) also continued the study of
magic as the "Ninth Laboratory for the development of magic", a private
research institute co-financed by the families Kudou, Kuki and Kuzumi.
Officially the ninth laboratory explores Perception-Type Magic, which is
slower in comparison to magic that changes phenomena.
The study of magic related to Perception-Type is not a lie. But the
research is not limited to this.
One of the products of their research, created by the present ninth
laboratory, are the parasitic dolls, that troubled Tatsuya last summer.
This humanoid weapon in the form of an automatic doll-gynoid, which
has magical power by sealing the parasite in an independent information
body that has a human mind.
Despite the fact that the parasites were frozen prior to the actual
commissioning due to inept use during the tests, their effectiveness is
assessed as sufficient to be used in real combat. That's why they are
dormant, and not disposed of. The parasites in the dormant state are still
kept in the ninth laboratory.

Sunday evening, June 2, 2097.

A man's silhouette approached the warehouse of the ninth laboratory in

which the parasite dolls were stored. In the dim light of the emergency
lights was an enchanting, divinely, diabolical beauty, who at first sight
did not completely belong in this world, appeared.
Although Kudou Minoru was a guy of inhuman beauty from the very
beginning, in the darkness of the night, human nature filled mystery, and
it manifested in the essence that belonged to the "Man" category.
Minoru opened the warehouse door. He didn't use magic or hack into the
system. Why do something like that when you have a key? He borrowed
this key in advance from the Development management department.
Minoru entered the vault. Inside the room there was air conditioning, but
it was cold and dry.
There wasn’t any atmosphere of mystery. Minoru, who belongs to the
magicians of Nine, whose magic is a hybrid of ancient and modern
mages, was also able to use Mental Interference Magic and could feel
Pushion waves. He could not see the pushions themselves by having
special eyes like Mizuki, but could recognize the waves created by
Pushions.
If he put this feeling together with his real feelings, it could be called that
"he could distinguish them as a rumor."
And Minoru could not feel the activity of pushion waves at the moment.
This was proof that the parasites, that is, the Phantom Monsters, which
are the basis of the Parasite Dolls, have now been recorded in an idle,
dormant state.
(Can I be healthy if I eat them?)
("'Swallowing' one will suffice. Part of the body will inevitably be
changed by the parasite, but in 'my' * case the person should not be
damaged.")
[Zhou uses "I" in the third person when talking to Minoru.]
The knowledge of Zhou Gongjin responded to a question in his mind.
Minoru swallowed the ghost of Zhou Gongjin using a loyalty spell
intended to enslave parasites. The loyalty spell is "subordination", not
"unification". Because of its nature, the Phantom of Zhou Gongjin was
added to the consciousness of Minoru in the form of a second
consciousness.
Minoru felt a feeling that such a consciousness was added, more
precisely he felt his consciousness was connected with a personal
adviser or a disembodied AI helper.
(... Part of the body?)
("According to the American army, a body for communication was
added to the brain.")
"If you do something like that, wouldn't that hurt?"
("I cannot guarantee that it is absolutely safe. But 'I' often suffer from
physical deterioration because I cannot control psions, keeping them
within the permissible range of the body. Parasites are able to control
Psions better, so parasitism can completely eliminate body problems.")
(In that case, should I study the Psion control technique better?)
("In theory this is possible. But your body may not be able to withstand
this training.")
Minoru bit his lip. This was not the first time the last part of this
discussion was had.
The added consciousness (perhaps more appropriately called this
"advanced intellect") only responds to questions posed by him, so it will
not say something like "You are talking about that again?". Without the
concept of repetition, when he unwittingly repeated the same questions,
he received the same answers.
After all, with only the usual effort, Minoru still could not play an active
role in the important events taking place. And his body does not allow
for him to be sufficient enough, so some "unusual" effort can be used to
overcome these shortcomings. Minoru realized that his shortcomings
cannot be overcome by effort alone.
That's why he came here tonight. Here, there was a way to free him from
the shortcomings of his body. It was not difficult to wake up the sleeping
parasite, and let him take possession of it. He had no experience, but he
knew that it was possible without problems. The knowledge accumulated
by the ninth laboratory, and the
"advanced intellect" told Minoru that it is possible.
Now it was only to make a decision. Minoru only had to decide. To
decide to stop being human or retain his humanity.
How long has he been standing here motionless? Minoru, who had
turned in to a sculpture of a handsome guy, slightly migrated, and once
again became a man.
Minoru turned around. He left the room and closed the door.
After this decision to turn away, the ghost said nothing. The Advanced
intelligence only answers what he's asked.
Minoru did not ask the ghost whether his choice was right to turn around
and leave.

After Edward Clark spoke on TV, he went home, formally thanking the
Magic Association, together with his son.
They arrived at the Los Angeles International Airport at 6 a.m. local
time. Edward returned to his office for the first time since his absence at
14 o'clock.
Edward had no superiors at the California branch of the National Science
Agency. Even the director of the branch didn't know what Edward was
doing. He had a separate personal cabinet and full freedom to act on his
own.
Initially, these were measures to ensure that the secret of Echelon III did
not leak to the rest of the staff. But now everything has changed so that
these privileges are given to advance the countermeasures against the
Japanese intercontinental Strategic Class magic.
"Is it 7 am there...?"
Edward's muttering was an unconscious monologue. The work alone in
this office must have had a detrimental effect, but he himself did not
realize it. Perhaps it was a habit, tied to this office, because in other
places it was not noticed.
"Should I wait a little longer? No..."
Perhaps it was kind of ritual for him to order his thoughts.
Edward threw away his indecision and headed for the communication
device. It looked like a regular videophone, but it was a phone with a
limited number of communication points, and a built-in interception
prevention system using the capabilities of the Echelon III system.
The selected communication route sent a call to the New Soviet Union.
One of the rooms in the far branch of the Academy of Sciences of the
New Soviet Union in Vladivostok. It is not necessary to say that the
interlocutor was Igor Andreivitch Bezobrazzoff.
"Good morning, doctor."
"Good morning. No, it’s daytime for you, isn’t it?"
As far as the videophone could show, the drowsiness on the face of the
image was not visible.
"I'm sorry about this early hour."
"If you choose a suitable time for me, then you will have a late night. So
I don't mind. You have an urgent case, don't you?"
"It's not a very urgent matter, I just thought I should talk to you quickly."
"I'm listening to you."
The soft and good face of the sociable man, who at the beginning of the
conversation was made by Igor, now became firm.
"You should already know."
The expression on Edward's face was also firm, but not just serious, but
expressing a deeper meaning.
"The Japanese magician of Strategic Class, Shiba Tatsuya, refused to
participate in Project Dione and responded to it with his project."
"Yes, I know. I watched the press conference live."
Damn it, this thought surfaced in Edward's head. There was no problem
that he was interested in the press conference of Shiba Tatsuya. It's
amazing that he watched it live. He should have taken into account that
the content of yesterday’s press conference was already known to him.
Igor may have already begun to prepare his own countermeasures.
Thinking that perhaps it was too late, Edward took off his mask of calm
on his face and was going to continue the conversation.
"A power plant using the Stellar Furnace, a thermonuclear reactor that
uses a sequence of gravitational control. Quite an attractive plan. So
much so that I even want to offer a joint research."
But Edward was a little late. He received a heavy blow from this
comment.
"Oh, please don't make that face. It was a joke."
"Doctor, you are an evil man..."
Edward could not conceal his traces of alarm, though he knew that it was
only a ploy of Igor to seize the initiative.
"I beg your pardon. However, the fact that the energy plant project is
attractive is an undeniable reality. Now it will be even harder to expel
Shiba Tatsuya into the orbit of Jupiter, right?"
"I don't think the Dione project will be stopped. I favor the pressure of
our government to ensure that the Japanese government does not approve
the construction of the power plant. Or you can make an accident happen
at the built plant. In any case, I would like you, doctor, to continue
cooperation with us on Project Dione."
"Hmm..." Igor made a pensive face. "Actually, I was going to neutralize
the Strategic Class Magic 'Material burst' in a more, so to say, direct
way..."
"Doctor!"
"But if Mr. Clark insists, I'll observe for a while."
"...Many thanks."
As expected, Edward thought, feeling relieved. He was afraid that Igor
would make a mistake by taking such rash measurements. If his attack is
successful, there will be no problems. If Igor destroys Shiba Tatsuya, the
USNA will be very grateful.
However, if it fails.
Perhaps Igor was sure that he will not leave traces of his involvement,
but he is a Strategic Class Magician, known to the world. Clark himself
would also be suspected if Shiba Tatsuya claimed that he had discovered
that he had been cooperating in the attack.
Not only the New Soviet Union will be suspected. People all over the
world know that Igor was the first to support Project Dione. Charges of
attempted murder may follow, and the project will collapse.
Edward put off all his affairs and called to avoid this.
"But, Mister."
But the speech of Igor is not over yet.
"If it becomes impossible to drag Shiba Tatsuya into Project Dione, our
country will choose its course of solving this problem. Alternatives
cannot be excluded to eliminate the threat of the conversion of mass to
energy."
It was obvious, and without any further clarification, that the "alternate
option", which was spoken of by Igor, was the use of the Strategic Class
Magic "Tuman Bomba".
A bout of stiff coughing attacked Edward because he had a parched
throat. He hastened to drink the mineral water from the bottle.
"... Sorry. In order for something to happen, I will give the necessary
orders immediately."
"I hope so too."
The face of Igor disappeared from the monitor. The link was interrupted
from the other side. With a strong impatience, Edward extended his hand
to another telephone.

On Tuesday, when chairman Tomitsuka Hitsui returned from lunch to

her office in the Kyoto branch of the Magic Association, she was visited
by an MFA employee.
"...Are you asking the Magic Association to exert pressure on the
Yotsuba family!?"
"You can understand that."
"That's impossible!"
Hitsui screamed, forgetting the rules of decency.
"The Magic Association has no authority to give magicians orders to
'Do that' or 'don't do that'!"
The words of Hitsui were not a lie to avoid the responsibility. The Magic
Association is a magicians-assisted organization, not an organization that
controls magicians.
"But it has a strong authority among the magicians. The International
Magic Association can even form disciplinary units acting above the
law."
"This is only possible for the limited purpose of preventing the use of
nuclear weapons! The Japanese Magic Association has no such
influence to discourage the financial activity of a magician as a private
person!"
"Is that so?" the MFA employee asked in a serious tone.
"Yes, it is!"
Apparently, this man was not familiar with magicians, so Hitsui firmly
emphasized her opinion to persuade him.
"In addition, Magicians of the Ten Master Clans are stronger than the
Magic Association. Even if the association organizes a disciplinary unit,
it will not be able to force the Yotsuba family to obey."
"But the Ten Master Clans are not a monolithic structure?"
This was an erroneous argument, so the stress of Hitsui only doubled
from these words of the man from the MFA.
"Do you propose to provoke an internal conflict in the Ten Master
Clans!?"
"'Provoke' is an inappropriate expression. We don't want something like
personal quarrels between friendly magicians. I just wondered if the true
meaning of autonomy as an organization was not to constrain its
members from the inside but to restrain them from getting out of
control?"
"The Magic Association does not manage the Ten Master Clans!"
Hitsui felt a dull pain at the top of her stomach, but tolerated it and
zealously objected.
"We think otherwise. From an objective point of view, the one with
greatest influence on the community of magicians, aren’t those calling
themselves the 'Ten Master Clans', but the Magic Association."
But the interlocutor did not want to listen to her.
"So, I sincerely count on you."
Having said these words in the end, the MFA employee stood up.
Hitsui, the remaining one in the office of the Chairman, was covered
with cold sweat and felt nausea, and could not tolerate the increasing
pain, and grabbed her stomach.

It is not necessary to say that the Japanese government began to obstruct

Project ESCAPES because it was asked by the Government of the
USNA. To date, the Japanese government has seen no benefit from the
extraction of marine resources.
In the past, similar projects ended in complete failure, so they were
skeptical about it in terms of feasibility and cost-effectiveness. They
emphasized that there should be no such weakness in diplomacy and the
economy.
However, the response of the business community was different.
"Kitakata-san, it seems that you have decided to participate in this
Business project without hesitation."
Kitakata was a commercial alias for Kitayama Ushio. These were the
kind of good manners in business circles, when even at informal
meetings they would call each other by their aliases, if they have one.
But there were many exceptions when only real names could be used at
official events of the government and the municipality.
"As expected from Muromachi-san. You learned quickly."
"Muromachi", to whom Ushio replied, was not his real name either.
Although the business of his interlocutor was inferior to the "Hokuzan
group" of Ushio in scale, this man was the actual owner of a group of
companies, coming from a family business with a long tradition. In the
financial world he was a big brother to Ushio .
"Have you already invested in this project? What can it be connected
to?" Another businessman familiar with him spoke to him from the other
side of the table.
"You already know so much. Iwata-san, who did you hear that from?"
"Yes so... from different people."
On both of Ushio and Iwata’s faces, at the same time, wide smiles
surfaced. Iwata, unlike Muromachi, is the owner of company that rivals
Ushio’s competing group, and their recent relationship was to fight for
major foreign transactions. But there were no signs of enmity between
them.
"It's not that I'm hiding it. Shiba-kun is my daughter's classmate."
"Yes, if you think about it, your daughter goes to the National Magic
University Affiliated First High School."
"So you're in a friendly relationship with him?"
This was asked not by Muromachi or Iwata, but by another person on the
opposite side. Although Ushio met with Tatsuya on the issue of the
project only the day before yesterday, the news about it has spread
everywhere.
Looks like Toudou Aoba deliberately spread rumors. Ushio thought
when he politely answered the question.
Even if you hear about a new business that is seemingly profitable, it is
difficult to make a decision to invest money in it alone. However, when
the business already has a major sponsor, you will want to participate in
it. For the major players of the financial world present here, the cost of
the construction of one plant is at the level of "Well let's try and see what
happens."
"If it's not difficult for you, Kitakata-san, could you introduce him to
me?"
When one person raised this issue, with a slight lag from the rest to the
side, Ushio got the same request.
It was not bad for Ushio that the number of investors would increase.
Risks can be divided as more and more people participate in the
business, because it is possible to divide it so that each participant is
dependent on something of their own. And as a result, the weight of the
voice of each project participant increases.
"I'll tell Tatsuya-kun about your requests."
Ushio answered all with a smile, when the meeting was coming to an
end.

Having received an order to appear in the office of the Commander after

a day training, Lina was gloomy mentally. Yes, only mentally.
She almost made a face that showed that she hated orders.
When she was last summoned to the commander's office, the order was
to accompany Edward Clark, as a result she learned the secret of the
dark side of the USNA’s army, which she should not know about.
Lina was disheartened by the fact that she could again receive a mission
with a similar disappointing end.
But she could not say that she wanted to stop taking orders. Neither
betrayal nor desertion was an option for Lina.
"Ben! You've been summoned by the Commander?"
"You too, Commander-in-chief?"
Lina began to get a bad feeling. Summoning both Lina and Canopus at
the same time was not uncommon, although when she was given the
order to accompany Clark, Lina, on the contrary, was alone. In the case
of Jiedo Heigu (Gu Jie) Lina was ordered to stay and give the work of
Canopus.
Even if she was expecting a mission in which she would not be able to
show a decent result, but provided Canopus is there, it is likely that he
will help her if a difficult moment arises.
So the fact that she was called together with Canopus was a good
circumstance for Lina.
But, for some reason, this time she was not able to suppress a sinister
premonition. Isn't it because the mission is expected to be heavy if both
she and Canopus were to be sent together? She could not get rid of such
thoughts.
"Major Angelina Sirius has arrived."
"Major Benjamin Canopus arrived."
"Enter." The voice of the base Commander, Colonel Walker, was heard
from behind the door.
Lina beat Canopus, and she opened the door. The next moment Lina
froze when she saw a superior officer, who was not supposed to be here.
"Colonel Balance...?" A stunned Lina muttered, but she quickly regained
composure, and entered the Commander's office and vigorously saluted.
Canopus entered immediately after Lina and stood beside her. Colonel
Walker went up and saluted them in return.
"At ease." Walker said this to these two and sat back on the chair.
Balance, in the meantime, stood motionless on the side of the table.
"Major Sirius, Major Canopus, this is a special case, and I want to hear
the opinion of both of you."
"Opinion?"
"Yes. Having heard the opinion of each of you, I want to decide whether
it is worth to entrust the Stars with this mission."
Having heard the words of Walker, Lina and Canopus unwittingly
looked at each other. As Walker said, this was a special occasion. It is
normal to ask the opinion of subordinates during strategy preparation.
But when the goal is already known, the means of achieving this goal are
asked. And the question of whether or not to carry out the mission at all
is usually solved at a higher level, and there should be no exceptions to
this rule.
"I think you already know that the magician who, on October 31, 2095,
used Japan's Strategic Class Magic, the day we call 'Scorched
Halloween', is a young man named Shiba Tatsuya."
Lina and Canopus at the same time returned to Walker a positive
response.
"Did you know that Shiba Tatsuya rejected the proposal of the National
Scientific Agency and launched a new project?"
"I know." Canopus answered. Lina also knew that Tatsuya refused to
participate in the Dione project, but did not know the details.
"It's an energetic plant with a Stellar Furnace based on a Gravity
Control-Type Magic Sequence. If this plan is implemented, the resource
industry of our country will again receive a strong blow."
Oil, coal and nuclear plants were greatly damaged when energy sources
switched from fossil fuels to solar, wind, geothermal, and biofuels. But
by going into the sphere of biofuels, which requires a vast amount of
land, as well as by developing small reactors for areas with low solar
activity, they managed to restore their positions and live to the present
time.
"...In addition, with the development of magic controlling nuclear
fission and blocking radiation, the people’s rejection of nuclear energy
has decreased compared to the last century. For the most part, the
decline in nuclear power was due to rising uranium prices and the high
cost of the magicians needed to counter accidents. Nuclear weapons
were sealed and the withdrawal of plutonium for civilian use was
carried out."
"...Even if you do not pay attention to the circumstances in the industrial
area, it will be inconvenient for our country if we cannot neutralize
Shiba Tatsuya with the help of Project Dione."
This cannot be? , Lina thought.
"In this regard, the general staff thought that it is necessary to arrange a
diversion at Shiba Tatsuya’s plant. The view was also expressed that the
threat of a presumably intercontinental range of the Strategic Class
Magic 'Material Burst' would be eliminated if Shiba Tatsuya could be
eliminated at this stage."
Worst case scenario, Lina thought.
She did not know the details, but as far as she had heard, Tatsuya’s
project was to build a commercial plant.
And to help their entrepreneurs, they want to destroy his plant.
Although this would be very difficult, but the true goal seems to be the
assassination of Shiba Tatsuya. Since when did the Stars become a
group of killers like the mafia?
"Major Sirius, Major Canopus, what do you think?"
"Colonel, let me express my opinion!"
Instead of answering Walker's question, Lina asked for permission to
answer. It wasn't because she kept calm. Just the opposite. As she had the
feeling that her head was about to boil, she tried to restore the lost self-
control, deliberately observing military discipline.
"Authorized." Walker made no remark about this and just gave Lina
permission.
"I'm against it. Although the magic of converting mass into energy is
certainly a threat, but Shiba Tatsuya is a man from a union country and is
not hostile to our country. To kill him only because he poses a potential
threat are like the methods of the Mafia. I believe that the army should
not dirty their hands with murders of this nature."
"I'm against it, Colonel."
"Major Canopus, you too?"
Walker listened to Lina's opinion with a stone face, but when Canopus
also objected, Walker's face flashed astonishment.
"Yes. I do not think that even the diversion at the plant itself is a good
idea, let alone the pros and cons of murder. Yes, the energy industry can
be temporarily hit. However, the supply of cheap hydrogen fuel,
extracted from sea water, can improve the lives of the citizens of our
country. Actions against Tatsuya should not be murder or interference of
his activities. Wouldn't it be better instead to ask him to provide our
country with the know-how of a thermonuclear reactor?"
"...Do you think that we should not hinder him, but ask him?"
"Confirmed. Since the military will be used in certain areas for
commercial purposes, the energy industry would be affected badly
because the army would prevent it. I do not deny the aspects of the
interdependence of the army and the economy, but a certain 'brake' is still
needed."
"Colonel Walker, may I offer my opinion too?" said Balance, standing on
the side of Commander Walker's desk.
"Please." Walker willingly allowed her. At least it looked like that.
"Thanks. I do not know what to say about the principal views of Major
Sirius, but I believe that the opinion of Major Canopus is worth
considering."
Lina was shocked by these words and though Balance noticed this, she
ignored it.
Turning to Walker, she continued to express her opinion.
"There is one delicate side to the evaluation of Stars by people who are
not magicians. If the Stars act in the interests of a specific company, or a
particular industry, even if people would only think we are doing so,
there is a fear that there will be intense opposition from other industries
and consumer organizations."
"But can’t we just sabotage it in strict secrecy?"
"The enemy is also quite capable. It would be unrealistic to conduct a
diversion at the plant without leaving any clues."
Walker had to recognize what Balance said. It is almost impossible to
carry out a large-scale sabotage on the plant so that it does not attract
public attention.
When it is possible to investigate the traces of the caused damage, there
is always a limit to what makes it look like an accident. The main
prerequisite for preparing a crime against someone else's military force is
to ensure that they will not be able to examine the evidence in detail.
You can, of course, escape from the punishment, pretending that you do
not know anything, but the spreading of rumors cannot be avoided. In
terms of the fact that there will be a minimum amount of clues, killing
one person, Tatsuya, was much simpler.
"...So your opinion, as well as the opinion of both Majors, is that there
are more shortcomings? ...Got you. I'll ask the General staff to cancel the
operation."
The one who felt most relieved from Walker's decision was Lina.

After leaving the office of the Commander, Balance led Lina to another
room.
"Major Sirius, how have you been doing lately?"
"Yes, there are no problems."
They sat at the same table from different angles. Standing up to talk
would be tedious, so Balance insisted that they sit down.
Before Lina was not a cup of honey milk, but a whole mug of American
coffee. After she came back from Japan last year, she probably thought it
was a weakness to show others that she was drinking milk, and from
then on, outside of her room, pretends to prefer coffee. But recently her
stomach, apparently, could not withstand hard brewed coffee, so cream
and sugar became irreplaceable.
"Understood."
Before Balance also stood American coffee. Only hers was black. It was
originally pretty hard boiled, but if you add cream and sugar to it, the
taste would be lost.
"Returning to the recent conversation..."
"Yes."
Lina straightened out, sitting on a chair. Although they were the only
two in the room, she didn't know what the conversation was about.
She was also worried about being able to talk about it in a place like this.
"Although Colonel Walker said he would ask to cancel the operation, we
don't know what the General Staff's decision would be. Maybe you'll be
nominated for the order."
"Then I'll fulfill my responsibilities."
The reaction of Lina was too fast, because it apparently implied the
presence of other “views” here.
"Hmm."
Although Balance noticed this, she did not pay attention to it. It could be
said that it was a demonstration of her position that it would not be a
problem.
"The Defense Ministry also has one more opinion."
"Do you mean that there is another policy towards Tatsuya?"
The Balance’s voice was like a monologue, but Lina was forced to ask,
as if she heard.
"The opinion is that it is necessary not to conflict with him, but to use
him. This is very close to the earlier voiced opinion of Major Canopus."
"You mean Ben's opinion... What does it take to secure the right to
know-how of a thermonuclear reactor?"
"Yes. To use the know-how of a magical thermonuclear reactor for the
economy. And for military purposes to be used as a distributed deterrent
force."
"Distributed deterrent force...?"
Having seen the puzzled Lina, Balance involuntarily smiled.
"This distribution concerns you too, Major Sirius."
"That? How does it relate to me?"
"Don't you understand?"
With a smile Balance was trying to nuance between "You can't do
anything", and not "You're stupid."
"From the 'Scorched Halloween' situation, it seems that they can also use
a satellite aiming system. Perhaps its accuracy is even better than ours. If
we can capture this know-how too, then with the Major’s Heavy Metal
burst and Material Burst of Shiba Tatsuya, we will dominate the military
forces of the world. This should lead to the rejection of at least large-
scale military action."
"Me and Tatsuya working together...?"
"Initially, our army did not plan to use your Strategic Class Magic just
for defense. Like 'Leviathan', that depends highly on the defense/seizure
position, the place of use for Heavy Metal Burst cannot be chosen."
To be more precise, Heavy Metal Burst cannot provide sufficient power
if a certain amount of heavy metal is not available in the area, and its
effect will be severely limited in geographical conditions with very
rough, hilly surfaces.
But compared to "Leviathan", which can only show its true value only
on terrain with an abundance of water, for example, on the sea, a large
lake or a wide river, Heavy Metal Burst has more freedom of use.
Although it is inferior to "Ozone Circle" and "Agni-Downburst" In terms
of a lack of influence of geographical conditions, but if you add other
conditions, such as power and speed of activation, we can say that Heavy
Metal Burst is a suitable replacement for strategic ballistic missiles for
the role as a deterrent force.
"What's the surprise? The New Soviet Union and Japan. If this alliance is
formed, then Japan is an ally that will be easier to control. So if this
happens, don't be too weird."
At first glance it was caution to the fact that the one who was still an
enemy, cannot be forced to be an ally. However, Balance said the word
"weird" which could include a secret meaning that Lina may experience
certain feelings for Tatsuya.
Apparently, Balance called Lina here, because it seemed necessary to
warn her that she did not show such behavior, which would lead to
distrust of her, because she had previously personally met with Tatsuya.
"...Okay. Roger that."
"Yes, well, think about it."
It's a good thing we talked about this, Balance thought, seeing the
confused face of the unreliable Lina.

After Balance, Lina and Canopus came out of the Commander's office.
After a while Colonel Walker summoned the commanders of the Third
and Fourth Corps of Stars, Arcturus and Vega.
"Captain Alexander Arcturus arrived."
"Captain Charlotte Vega has arrived."
"Enter."
Walker invited the two unit commanders to the Office of the base
Commander.
Like they said, they were both captains. Their ranks were lower than
Lina and Canopus, but in the current form of the organization of Stars it
was strange that there were six people of the same rank as Lina, who was
considered the Commander-in-Chief.
So in a sense it was normal that the commanders of Arcturus and Vega
to be lower in rank than the Commander-in-Chief Lina.
However, Vega, who was older than Lina by more than 10 years, was
extremely unhappy with the fact that she was below her in rank. That's
why Vega and Lina got along badly. More precisely, Vega was
unilaterally hostile to Lina, who was younger than her.
Arcturus did not manifest hostility and disobedience to Lina. But they
could not be called friends.
First Lieutenant Fomalhaut, executed... Killed by Lina the day before
Christmas Eve last year, and was a member of the Third Corps, which
is led by Captain Arcturus.
Arcturus understood that Fomalhaut, who had committed mass
murders, using his "superpower", pyrokinesis, deserved punishment.
However, it was also true that he did not have the opportunity to defend
himself in a military court.
For Arcturus it was unpleasant to think that Lina had no other choice
but to shoot Fomalhaut on the spot, though he resisted.
There was no doubt that Walker chose these two, because there was a
psychological distance between them and Lina.
"It is absolutely forbidden to tell anyone about the mission you are
about to receive. Commander, also do not report this to Major Sirius."
"You got it, sir."
When they simultaneously responded to the order of the Commander,
Arcturus with doubt frowned his eyebrows, and the eyes of Vega shone.
She was delighted to be able to circumvent Lina. It was possible to call
this behavior unworthy of her age, in fact magicians usually are not
inclined to be envious on such an occasion.
Walker knew about the personal feelings of Vega, but did not rebuke
her, moving on to the story of the mission.
"Create a stir at the construction of the energy plant, designed by the
Japanese Strategic Class Magician, Shiba Tatsuya. One of the means of
obstruction can be considered the murder of Shiba Tatsuya."
Arcturus opened his eyes wide with unconcealed surprise.
"Is this an order for me and Captain Vega to kill Shiba Tatsuya?"
"The main task is to hinder his project. If this goal can be achieved, then
killing will not be necessary."
"Is it possible to resort to murder if obstruction is difficult?” Vega asked
immediately. ...With a smile on her face."
"...From the moment of receiving the temporary name 'The Great
Bomber', the initial plan concerning this magic of conversion of mass
into energy consisted in complete neutralization if it could not be seized.
Nothing has changed here. Now the priority is given to neutralization
through Project Dione, and if this does not work, we will return to the
original plan."
"You got it."
Arcturus was still in a state of reluctance, but he persuaded himself to
accept the task.
Vega, on the contrary, was full of enthusiasm.
Through the Women's Information network for soldiers and officers, she
found out that Lina seems to be friends with Tatsuya. Although it is still
"potential", but he is still "the greatest threat". Those who are close
friends with the "greatest enemy" should not be a soldier of the USNA
army.
She, as a sempai, will wake Sirius up, bringing her the head of Shiba
Tatsuya.
With such thoughts, Vega was burning with enthusiasm.
The execution of the first Lieutenant Alfred Fomalhaut left a mark in the
hearts of every member of the Stars. Especially in the same Third Corps
as Fomalhaut and his close friend, the First Lieutenant, Jacob Regulus,
who is still searching for the truth about the incident.
At the moment, the official but absolutely secret opinion is that the
murders Fomalhaut committed while under the control of a parasite.
Psychological resistance to the supernatural was lost with the practical
use of magic, and at the autopsy of Fomalhaut in his brain, they found a
body that should not be in a human.
 Any who calls themselves realists, will find it difficult to deny the
existence of parasites.
He was captured by the parasite and created disorder, using his unique
ability of pyrokinesis. This was explained by his multiple murders of
civilians in that incident.
But it wasn't enough to convince Regulus.
How was Fomalhaut captured by a parasite?
Shortly before the incident, Fomalhaut was sent on a solitary mission.
Until the moment they last saw him, there was no strangeness in him.
So he were undoubtedly captured during that solitary mission.
The question is when, where and who did it.
If it is an accident, it is necessary to find out the conditions of occurrence
of parasites and to prevent recurrence of it.
Many scientists are actively working in this direction.
Although this theory was deadlocked because of the inability to test it to
confirm it, but most believed that the reason is the Micro Black Hole
experiment. Disputes about the mechanism of this process are still going
on.
Therefore, Regulus conducted an investigation to prove that the
emergence of parasites was not an accident.
Who called the parasite that got to Fomalhaut?
If it was a deliberate incident, it was a brutal terrorist attack that could
lead to large-scale losses that terrorized the USNA. Because the
magician, who alone carries a fighting power comparable to a battalion,
can itself be regarded as an instrument of terrorism.
His friend was used as a terrorist or a saboteur, and as a result he was
executed by the hands of his own friends.
Regulus could not close his eyes to the possibility of this. Despite the
fact that further investigation after the execution of the offender was not
the work of the Stars, Regulus continued to investigate, and spent his
free time and days off.
However, one and a half years after the incident, Regulus was more and
more inclined to the conclusion that "There were no criminals". It
happened by accident.
And now, when he was almost convinced, he was delivered this
information.
"What does it mean..."
The fact that Regulus unconsciously muttered this aloud, had a reason.
This anonymous email had passed through the highest level of security,
which is used even in the general staff, and has reached his terminal in a
state without any censorship.
According to the Charter, Regulus had to isolate the message in the
system and notify the security personnel. But he did not, and opened the
letter.
The intuition of Regulus whispered to him that he should read it and not
give it to others to read.
The letter was not encrypted. It seems to have been protected from
peeping by other means than encryption.
And something absolutely amazing was written in it.
"The experiment of the Micro Black Hole is the work of a Japanese
agent...!?"
In this letter it says following:
-The Micro Black Hole Experiment was started by a Japanese Private
magician organization.
-The aforementioned organization knew that this experiment could
cause"something" spiritual to happen.
-The organization was looking for a country to conduct the experiment
that could not be implemented in Japan.
-At that time, scientists from the USNA army, who actively sought hints
on the magic of converting mass into energy, engaged in similar
research.
-The aforementioned organization wished to receive even more
experimental data. They asked for another micro black hole experiment
that would be monitored by an organization agent.
-Fomalhaut was captured by a parasite because he was suddenly
attacked. If a magician has a solid consciousness and a strong goal, the
parasite will never be able to possess them.

Regulus didn't believe the contents of this letter. To be honest, it seemed

too "suspicious" to him.
In particular, he thought that is too convenient that it is possible to avoid
the parasite from taking over by only having a strong consciousness.
But the fact that the experiment was conducted on the advice of a foreign
agent, unconsciously touched him to the bottom of the soul.
The details of the experiment seemed unnatural. Not only among
scientists, but also among politicians there are many who adhere to the
rule of caution. The results were doubtful from the very beginning.
Among the scholars, only the minority believed that the magic of mass
conversion to energy could be explained by Hawking's radiation.
Regulus also wanted to see if there was any chance that these events
were too much for him to understand, like some sort of conspiracy
theory.
But if we consider that the Micro Black Hole experiment could be
intervened by an external force, it looks like a reasonable explanation for
why the experiment was conducted at that time.
Regulus could not decide whether this external force was the Japanese
civil organization of magicians, the "Ten Master Clans". Regulus warned
himself that he should not be influenced by a message whose sender
wished to remain unknown. But now that his investigation was stalled,
and if there is an opportunity to learn the truth, he began to think that it
would be a good idea to try.
If they try the experiment again, you can check whether the source of
parasites is really the Micro Black Hole. Then it will also become clear if
what is written in this letter is true. If this is true, there will be a chance
to grab the tail of a criminal group.
However, there was a risk that new victims could appear, and be
captured by parasites. But if they are the same as they are, magicians of
the Star Class, then they may be able to capture the parasites or destroy
them.
There was no reason not to try.
This was the conclusion that Regulus came to. At this point, he did not
even think that he could capture a parasite.
Regulus approached his immediate commander, Captain Arcturus,
with an offer to experiment with the Micro Black Hole, the moment
after Arcturus returned from his visit to Colonel Walker.
Regulus told him the contents of the letter truthfully and eloquently
proved the necessity of the experiment.
If it were any other day, it would have ended only by the fact that
Arcturus would simply rebuke that Regulus was being reckless.
But Arcturus was mentally unstable after receiving Walker's assignment.
He was attracted by the idea of being able to grasp the Japanese agent's
tail.
If they receive important material for negotiations with Japan, it may be
possible to neutralize the Strategic Class Magic "Material Burst"
without such dirty methods as murder. Such a naïve calculation arose in
Arcturus’ mind.
Arcturus turned back in the direction of the base Commander's office and
led Regulus there.
And somehow, Regulus was able to persuade Colonel Walker.
Perhaps the Colonel just wanted to sabotage the mission entrusted to him
by the chief of staff.
He immediately contacted the General Staff, and in the course of the
conversation, they came to the decision that for the repetition of the
Micro Black Hole experiment, he will be contacted later.
Chapter 7
On Wednesday after school, Tomitsuka Hagane visited the School
Council Room. Even Igarashi Yousuke, Chairman of the Club
Management Group, rarely came to the School Council Room, and
Tomitsuka’s appearance here in general was an exceptional case.
"...When is Tatsuya planning to start attending school?"
"Unfortunately, he didn't tell me about that." With reluctance on her face,
Miyuki answered the question of Tomitsuka, the meaning of which was
something like: “When is the next time Tatsuya is to come?”.
Her answer was not a lie, and her facial expression wasn’t an act.
For a while, Tatsuya will not go to school, because he is observing how
the situation changes after the press conference. The resumption of
school attendance depends on this situation in society, and Tatsuya
himself cannot in advance say, "from what moment" he will return.
And Miyuki, day after night, grew discontent that Tatsuya was not free
to come to school.
"Then... Will you tell me where Shiba-kun is right now?" With
unconcealed despair, Tomitsuka asked Miyuki the next question.
"Do you have something to discuss with Tatsuya?" Miyuki asked this
answer with a suspicious voice. Anyone in her place felt that something
was wrong with Tomitsuka.
There was no freedom of action in his behavior. Putting pressure on the
interlocutor with his circumstances was not like Tomitsuka.
"Excuse me."
However, he noticed that he was making Miyuki feel unpleasant.
"Um... There's something I'd like to talk to Shiba-kun about."
"Talk? If you don't mind, I'd like to know about what?"
Tomitsuka’s eyes ran from side to side. He hesitated for a while, but
eventually he overcame his indecision and met Miyuki with a look.
"My mother is hospitalized."
"Your Mother!"
Miyuki opened her eyes wide and covered her mouth with her hand.
Tomitsuka was fussing from such a reaction.
"Oh, no, even though I said she was hospitalized, there's no danger for
her life. She has a severe stomach ulcer.. .she will be discharged from
the hospital after a month of rest."
"I understood... I hope she has a quick recovery."
"Thank you very much."
Thanking Miyuki for her words of sympathy, Tomitsuka looked as if he
wanted to say something else. While he was looking for the words to
say, Izumi spoke to him.
"Isn’t Tomitsuka-sempai’s mother the chairman of the Magic
Association?"
"Yes, she is, Saegusa-san."
"Does your mother's illness have a psychological origin?"
This time Tomitsuka’s eyes were already wide open.
"...The doctor said it was caused by stress."
"In other words, Tomitsuka-sempai wants to say that the cause of his
mother's illness, is Shiba-sempai?"
"I wasn't going to say something like that!"
The face of the answering Tomitsuka blushed. This proved that Izumi's
assertion was not entirely wrong. Tomitsuka, who was worried, realized,
and took a deep breath.
"...Your mother has recently been severely pressured by the government.
With regards to Tatsuya-sama?" Miyuki asked Tomitsuka
imperturbably.
"Yes, that's right. They want her to persuade Shiba-kun to cancel the
energy plant project and take part in Project Dione..."
"What does that mean!" Honoka said loud and indignant. Izumi and
Shiina, also considering it absurd, sent cold gazes to Tomitsuka.
"Can you talk about something like that? Don't you have to keep it a
secret?"
"...A member of my family already went to the hospital, though
unofficially. And as long as it’s for my family and to the extent that it
will help the people involved in the case to identify the circumstances, it
will not be a problem."
The open tone of Tomitsuka’s voice showed his discontent with
"government-related people."
"I'm not going to accuse Shiba-kun of my mother's hospitalization. Even
I understand that it is ridiculous to shift the responsibility to Shiba-kun."
"Tomitsuka-Sempai. If you aren’t going to complain, what are you
going to talk about with Shiba-sempai?"
Miyuki’s question again was voiced aloud by Izumi.
"...Regardless of the Government's opinion, I believe that Shiba-kun
should take part in Project Dione. This is undoubtedly an important
project for the future of mankind, and the USNA is trying to invite
Shiba-kun with the most courteous attitude.
He may have had a lot of plans, but I believe that for Japan, for the sake
of Japanese magicians, he must accept the invitation of the USNA. So
far, I was silent because it didn't concern me, but when it affected my
family, I became involved."
There was no one among the members of the School Council who
would support the argument of Tomitsuka. But there also were none that
interrupted his speech.
"Although I am annoyed that I have to follow unreasonable government
requests, I still want to try to persuade Shiba-kun to take part in Project
Dione."
Making sure that Tomitsuka finished his speech, Miyuki spoke.
"If that is your goal, then I can't tell you anything."
"Huh..?"
Tomitsuka, it seems, did not expect a refusal. He stared at Miyuki like a
person expressing their complete misunderstanding of an answer.
"If you have such a goal, I can't afford to tell you the address of
Tatsuya."
"Why... Can I ask why...?"
"Because I understand that you want to stop Tatsuya, and I can't help
you with that."
The face of Tomitsuka distorted, as if to say "I can't believe it".
"But... The selfishness of Shiba-kun can bring problems to everyone
else! If Shiba-kun shows a little patience, everyone will end up better!"
"Selfishness, you say...?"
Miyuki did not even conceal that she was unpleasantly surprised.
"Tomitsuka-kun, it looks like you're confused about your mom getting
sick. Please, forget today. It will be better for everyone."
The usual Tomitsuka is completely different and would not say anything
smug. Miyuki knew this and wanted to solve the problem peacefully.
For her, it was an exceptional occasion when Tatsuya was offended, and
she ended it all with reasonable measures.
Her magic did not get out of control because the seal was removed, and
she thus regained the primordial control of her magic. However, to her
opponent, feeling like he got pushed into a corner, and trapped in his
thinking, it produced a reverse effect.
"...President Shiba. I'm challenging you to a duel."
"Under a duel you mean a fight for resolving the conflict of opinions?"
"Yes. If I win, please tell me where the Shiba-kun is."
Miyuki quietly listened to the willful statement of Tomitsuka. No, she
was completely calm. But there was no blazing anger inside her, because
those hostile and murderous intentions were frozen.
"...I accept your challenge."
"Miyuki-sama, please wait."
The phrase of the acceptance of the duel was blocked by another voice.
"Minami-chan?"
With a mixed sense of wonder and suspicion, Miyuki asked about
Minami’s intentions.
Minami did not say "President", but "Miyuki-sama".
The fact that Miyuki is the successor of the title the "Head of the
Yotsuba family" was well-known. At the same time, everyone here
understood that Minami is not really a cousin, but is in the service of the
Yotsuba family. Nobody really asked about it, but everyone suspected
this kind of a relationship.
Therefore, Minami called Miyuki "Miyuki-sama", without feeling any
discomfort. She even said, "Miyuki-sama", in cases where Miyuki wasn't
around. However, Miyuki did not like it when it happened at school, and
she insisted on the greatest possible deterrence of this behavior, showing
their relationship as a master and a servant.
So she had to have some reason for saying "Miyuki-sama" in this place,
showing the behavior of a servant in the presence of their kohai.
"Tatsuya-sama told me to protect Miyuki-sama. Followed with Tatsuya-
sama giving me his trust, I cannot allow Miyuki-sama to participate in
unnecessary battles."
Miyuki had no way to object the words of Minami. When Tatsuya’s
intentions are mentioned, Miyuki cannot have any objections.
"But in that case, Tomitsuka-sempai maybe will not be satisfied? That
instead of Miyuki-sama, I will become the opponent of Tomitsuka-
sempai."
"...I got it. Tomitsuka-kun, is that fine with you? If Minami-chan loses,
then like you, Tomitsuka-kun, asked, I will tell you the location of the
villa, where Tatsuya-sama now lives."
"...If it results in you telling me the location of Shiba-kun, then I do not
mind."
These unexpected developments puzzled Tomitsuka. Perhaps more
precisely it could be said that he was not good in such matters.
But he decided not to object. He didn't have time to worry about
anything but his goal.
In disputes between students the one who is right and who is wrong, is
proven by force. This was the one way of solving problems that was
officially included in the rules of First High.
Of course, the "mock battle" procedure was strictly defined, and it was
also required to obtain permission from the President of the School
Board and the Head of the Disciplinary Committee.
It was a measure to prevent the use of training fights for unilateral
violence, so basically when there is a large difference in force between
the participants.
"...I thought there wouldn't be a duel against the Student Council this
year."
The Head of the Disciplinary Committee, Mikihiko, complained to
Izumi, who came to ask for approval of the mock battle. Since the
President is the related party this time, the organization of the mock fight
is handled by the Vice President, Izumi.
"This is not a duel, but a match, Yoshida-sempai."
Having made a small amendment to the words of Mikihiko, Izumi gave
him the approved resolution of the Student Council together with its
written form.
Seeing what it says, Mikihiko rounded his eyes with surprise.
"Hand to Hand combat!? Is that okay? I mean, the fight is between
Tomitsuka-kun and Sakurai-san, a guy and a girl?"
Usually, hand to hand combat for competitions was only used by guys.
Because sexual harassment is a possibility in a fight between a guy and a
girl.
"The 'Using a mock knife and stopping before hitting the opponent'- rule.
Sakurai-san seems to be sure of herself."
The explanation of Izumi did not calm Mikihiko at all. Even if it is said
that the end of match is determined by the simulation of the impact of
the mock knife, it still means that punching and kicking is allowed.
"...I will serve as the referee."
He could not simply put his seal of approval on this, thinking that he
could not leave a place unattended where a pupil could be injured by
another pupil. With this thought in mind, Mikihiko decided to be the
referee.
Tomitsuka, who changed into a club uniform and waited in the third
room for practical training, looked with round eyes at the appearance of
Minami, who entered the room after Miyuki.
"Are you going to participate in the match in that outfit!?"
"But it doesn't violate the rules." Minami answered with an indifferent
tone to the involuntarily screaming Tomitsuka.
"That is... so, but.."
Tomitsuka was in the uniform for Magic Martial Arts.
The upper part is a long sleeve shirt without buttons with cushions on the
elbow parts, then loose belt-less trousers whose cushions were on the
knee parts and only the part at the ankle is tightened. On his feet, he
wore soft shoes that were designed for martial arts sports.
On the other hand, Minami was in a T-shirt with short sleeves and in
short thigh shorts worn by gymnasts. Although her right thigh was
covered with a weapon belt with an attached mock knife, she still had the
usual appearance of an athlete with exposed arms and legs.
"Aren't you worried about injuries?"
Tomitsuka was speechless towards Minami who just spoke to him.
"Of course, if you receive a blow from Tomitsuka-sempai, you can get a
bump or a bruise. Maybe even a fracture."
(In that case... You need more protection.) Tomitsuka wanted to say.
"Tomitsuka-sempai. This is the essence of a mock battle."
But Minami was faster than him.
"Even with the rules, when close combat is forbidden, the danger of
being traumatized does not change much."
In a rare occurrence, Minami was quite talkative today.
"If Tomitsuka-senpai doesn’t mind being injured by girls, he would have
already lost this match today."
Minami intentionally made a short pause.
"At your own convenience."
She struck down these condemning words on Tomitsuka. He could not
object to Minami’s criticism .
"...Tomitsuka-kun, do you want to cancel the match?" Mikihiko turned
to the dumbfounded Tomitsuka.
"Even if you win or lose this match, you will only have a poor aftertaste
left, so it’s better to stop now and you will not regret it."
Mikihiko extended Tomitsuka a life line.
"...Yoshida-kun, give the signal for the beginning of the match."
But the concern of Mikihiko only reinforced the stubbornness of
Tomitsuka. Now Tomitsuka definitely needed to know the address of
Tatsuya.
When Mikihiko mentioned "regret", Tomitsuka thought that "I do not
want to withdraw here and regret it later, even if I injure a girl and end
up regretting it".
"...Got it. Both parties know the rules? The rule is to stop before making
contact Please obey the judgment of the referee."
Tomitsuka and Minami simultaneously nodded. Unfortunately for
Mikihiko, neither Tomitsuka nor Minami had shown that they want to
retreat.
"Then... Start!"
By the signal of Mikihiko, Tomitsuka and Minami simultaneously
activated magic.
To reduce the distance, oscillation magic was used to break the balance
of the enemy and get victory without injuring her... This plan, invented
by Tomitsuka for this fight, was stopped by an Anti-Object barrier,
which appeared directly in front of him.
Although Tomitsuka already saw the ability of Minami in last year's
"Stellar Furnace" experiment and at the Nine Schools Competition, he
couldn't help but be surprised at the activation speed of her magic. The
barrier preventing his approach was created the moment after the signal
for the beginning of the match.
With surprise, but without panic, Tomitsuka flew into this transparent
wall.
His disadvantage that he could not project psions at a distance from his
body, has not changed. For magic that was able to attack enemies from
far away, it only affects the influence of magic that was invoked nearby
into the continuous space, so a magic can be set on a remote location.
But the peculiarity of wearing high-density psion armor, which can
neutralize any magic touching his body, also has not changed. No, this
ability to neutralize magic, which can be called "Contact-Type Gram
Demolition", has became stronger because of his improved psion
control.
Tomitsuka’s shoulder pierced the magical barrier of Minami. Resistance
was felt for less than one second. After that, Tomitsuka felt that the
barrier that was unseen by the naked eye, collapsed.
Next he was going to hit Minami with his hand. However, in the time
when Tomitsuka was focused on the barrier, Minami had the time to
flank him from the side.
The installation location of the magic barrier can be specified in either
relative or absolute coordinates.
When setting the barrier by absolute coordinates in the true sense of the
word, it is necessary to take into account the huge speed of rotation of
the Earth and its orbital movement, so, even when they say "absolute
coordinates", in most cases it means a relative position based on the
coordinates on the Earth's surface. In human perception it can be
expressed as absolute coordinates. Many people know that the magic
that sets a wall using the true absolute coordinates, so that the enemy at
breakneck speed flew into it, is an extremely advanced type of attacking
magic.
At the moment, Minami has created barriers in the usual sense of the
concept of absolute coordinates. On the other hand, Tomitsuka acted
with prejudice that the enemy is on the other side of the barrier. For this
reason, he lost sight of Minami at the time of the destruction of the
barrier.
Minami released a compressed air bullet which can be said to be a basic
version of attacking magic to Tomitsuka.
The modified "Sakurai" series has a high aptitude for magic barriers, and
the second generation Minami is particularly talented.
But it does mean that she, like Tatsuya or Tomitsuka, was bad at using
other spells, that weren’t related to her specialization.
Besides that, compressed air bullet "in a compressed state" conceptually
has some compatibly with barrier magic, so it is an easy magic for
Minami to use. It is synonymous with “magic” which can "give great
power".
Perhaps because the degree of threat was high, this intuition of his payed
off.
Driven by a strong sense of danger, Tomitsuka created a magical barrier
in the form of armor.
Tomitsuka could activate magic on objects or areas in his direct physical
contact.
However, at a distance of zero meters in the Contact State, the "Range
Zero", he demonstrated an unparalleled force. Such a magician was
Tomitsuka Hagane.
Unlike Fortification magic, this Anti-Object barrier, activated a form that
overlapped his worn clothing, and was able to take the compressed air
bullet from Minami. The armor Tomitsuka created protected him from
both the compressed air, and from the explosion caused by the release of
the compressed condition.
Tomitsuka continued by activating Movement-Type Magic.
To move his own body using magic is the basis for his favorite
technique, "Self-Marionette".
Due to his possession of this skill, he was able to jump toward Minami
with such speed, that she could not prepare her next attacking magic.
As soon as his feet felt contact with the floor, Tomitsuka pulled his right
hand to the right. From this position he consistently took a step forward
with his right foot and thrust his right palm.
But Tomitsuka’s arms and legs stopped moving due to the unexpected
scene that caught his eye.
On the face of the suddenly attacking Minami, excitement appeared.
From her position, she was happy that Tomitsuka suddenly appeared
before her, ignoring the distance between them.
She managed to avoid the attack of Tomitsuka thanks to her reflexes,
cultivated through her training at the Yotsuba main house.
At the same time as Tomitsuka, she entered the position to prepare a
blow to the chest, she bent her back backwards and pushed herself away
from the floor.
Because of the backflip that happened in front of his eyes, Tomitsuka’s
attack missed.
No, the delay in his movements wasn’t caused by the surprising back
flip, but because his gaze caught a piece of bodily color, that appeared
after the bottom edge of the T-shirt was lifted.
At least Minami felt Tomitsuka’s eyes were directed towards her because
she took her distance.
Instead of feeling disgusted, Minami thought that it was the only thing
that saved her.
It was an opening that could lead to the end of the mock battle, if
Tomitsuka hadn’t created a gap.
There is no way you can miss seeing the satisfactory belly button.
(If the enemy were Tatsuya-sama, this fight would have already been
over.)
Even though she pushed her palm of the floor and thrust back by
backflipping, she could not find the next attacking posture immediately
after she landed.
If she had attacked Tatsuya, this situation would be hopeless. And if this
was Tatsuya, he wouldn't stop his attack just because he saw the naked
skin of a woman.
Minami jumped further to the side and created a new magic barrier.
Tomitsuka recovered from his rigidity and approached Minami quickly.
Destroying the barriers.
Until that moment, everything happened the same as it did the last time.
However, Minami did not come from the flank this time, but instead
retreated to the back.
When the shield was destroyed, she built the next shield.
If it was Tatsuya’s demolition magic, or his Gram Demolition, the
destruction of magic would only take a moment. Magic Sequences
displayed in the information dimension cannot resist "Gram Demolition",
which decomposes Psion information bodies.
But Gram Demolition [spell dismantling] is a technique to blow away
Magic Sequences attached to the Eidos using psion pressure.
Depending on the force with which the Magic Sequence is stuck to the
Eidos, there is a delay in time until the dismantling occurs.
Area Magic that fixes the Magic Sequence in a space without anything is
usually weak against Gram Demolition. But the barrier magic of Minami
was far from "ordinary". The "Sakurai" series’ Anti-Object barrier,
which can withstand a tremendous amounts of momentum, was
extremely powerful in the concept of "holding something". Minami has
also inherited these magical characteristics.
In other words, the magical barriers of Minami can withstand Gram
Demolition for a short amount of time. Even if he will eventually break
through, it also means that it can give you time to prepare your next
magic.
Minami’s Anti-Object barriers were used to stop Tomitsuka’s
advancements. The barrier was quickly destroyed, but it took about one
second. During this time, Minami retreated back and had finished
erecting her next barrier.
It could be called a pseudo Phalanx.
But it does not mean that Minami does not feel anything from the broken
barriers. The fatigue caused by the activation of magic is undoubtedly
accumulating.
But Minami gradually receded back, making sure that there was a small
gap between each barrier, so that the Psion armor around Tomitsuka
could not touch them at the same time.
Tomitsuka could quickly destroy these barriers, so he did not move out
of the way, but progressed forward. Gradually moving, almost as if he
were standing still, if looked at from the outside.
This was not Tomitsuka’s original style. Facing his troubles directly,
using his coordinated hand and foot work, was his way of fighting. But
Tomitsuka could not do this when these struggles made his legs
immobilized and he is required to grab or push his opponent like you
would in sumo wrestling or rugby.
Minami retreated diagonally across the practical training room.
Looking at the distance left between the walls and her left and right,
Minami realized she was approaching the corner of the room.
She did not miss the moment when Tomitsuka’s eyes were looking
behind her.
(...I drove her into the corner,) Minima could clearly read Tomitsuka’s
thoughts.
Two more steps, and she's into the corner. There will be no further
retreat.
Simultaneously with the destruction of her barrier, Minami took one big
step back instead of two ordinary ones.
Without building another barrier.
Leaning forward to destroy the next barrier, Tomitsuka’s body lost
stability.
A disadvantage of Contact-Type Gram Demolition is that it can’t
demolish magic without physically touching it. This created a
convenient opportunity for Minami because Tomitsuka was careless,
since he was obsessed with destroying the barriers.
Minami, taking advantage of this moment, activated the prepared magic.
Downward Whirlwind.
This magic only created a downward air flow centered around the user,
and had a lack of killing power. However, Tomitsuka, who had been
approaching Minami the entire time, was caught in the air current and
lost his positioning.
Minami wrapped herself around Tomitsuka’s back, grabbed his mock
knife and threw it away.
Tomitsuka’s face blushed, which definitely wasn’t just because he was
nervous. Through the thin fabric of the gymnastic clothing a "soft
feeling" was impossible not to be felt. But luckily for Tomitsuka,
Minami did not notice his embarrassment.
Hooking his leg from the inside, Minami threw Tomitsuka forward.
Tomitsuka tried to use rotational movement to shake Minami off, but
she, skillfully shifting her weight around, hung on to Tomitsuka’s body,
thus throwing him on the ground.
Tomitsuka was under her.
As a result, Minami sat on Tomitsuka’s back, "like a horse", snatched the
mock knife from her waist, and put it to Tomitsuka’s throat.
"The match is over! Sakurai-san wins!" Mikihiko announced when the
training match was completed.
If the knife were real, it would mean that Tomitsuka’s throat would have
been cut by Minami. The outcome of the fight was obvious to all.
When they finished with cleaning and formalities after the mock fight, it
was almost time to close the school gates. Miyuki and the rest, having
finished their Student Council work, merged with the group of Erika and
Leo and they finally all gathered in the usual café.
"Hey, Sakurai-san, you were so strong."
"No, I was just lucky today..." Minami shyly tried to deny the words of
Kasumi.
The interest of all present was focused on the past mock fight.
"I guess luck will always be involved, but without true strength, you
wouldn’t’ve been able to win against Tomitsuka-kun." Erika intervened
with a face that showed that there was nothing to be surprised about.
"Erika, did you know about the Sakurai’s real power?"
The one asking was Leo, because he was a member of the same
mountaineering club as Minami and her physical ability was already well
known to him. However, according to the idiom “don’t judge a book by
its cover”, the impression that people got from Minami is that she is a
“gentle girl” and because her muscles aren’t obtrusive, her superb motor
functions also cannot be seen. If anything, it’s better to say that she
shows the figure of a girl who doesn’t regularly exercise.
Therefore for Leo, this was unexpected behavior for Erika as if she had
long been aware of Minami’s power.
"It’s difficult to understand unless you train enough. If you look
carefully, you'll notice that this is the case."
"Is that so…?"
I wonder who Leo was more impressed by, Erika or Minami? Or maybe
both.
"But I heard she's not very good at physical education."
Izumi did not have much malice when she asked Minami this simple
question.
"I... am not very good at ball games..."
Answering seriously about her shortcomings, Minami looked a bit
embarrassed. Izumi, who is also not that good at physical education, (It’s
not that they can’t do it, but they’re just psychologically bad at it)
stopped questioning Minami.
"But I think, like Sakurai-san said, the result was not only because of her
abilities."
Apparently, thinking that too much praise is also bad, Mikihiko changed
the direction of the conversation.
"It seems that Tomitsuka-kun was quite uncomfortable."
"Because his opponent was a girl?"
Mikihiko nodded to the question of Shizuku.
"Choosing hand to hand combat may have been a mistake."
"Do you mean that it would’ve been better if they only fought with
magic?" Saburou, who did not knowing about Tomitsuka, expressed his
doubts about the words of Mikihiko.
"Because of Tomitsuka’s special magic, he can't do that." Shiina
immediately gave him this answer.
Next, Shiina explained the meaning of Tomitsuka’s nickname
"Range Zero" to Saburou, and Honoka accused Tomitsuka: "If that
happened, it would’ve been better to stop."
"But he really liked it, didn't he?"
Even though Shizuku was making a bad joke, it sounded serious because
of her voice.
"By the way, Tomitsuka-kun seems to have been fascinated by Minami-
chan’s belly button..."
“Honoka, details" Shizuku poured oil onto the fire before Minami could
stop Honoka.
"Minami-chan was wearing gymnastic sports uniform."
"How bold."
"Well, that's it. Minami-chan made a backflip to avoid Tomitsuka-kun’s
attack."
"Wow."
"...At that moment, the edge of her shirt was fluttering, exposing a rather
large area of her stomach. Of course, it was quickly concealed again, but
Tomitsuka-kun froze for a while, motionless staring at Minami-chan’s
belly button."
"Guilty." Shizuku decided without hesitation, after hearing this story.
"And his face became red when Minami-chan grabbed him from
behind..."
"Really!?" Minami cried out when she heard Honoka’s additional
testimony.
"Yes. I guess... It was because your chest was touching him."
"..."
From the shame, Minami hid her face behind her hands. Leo and
Mikihiko also blushed a little and quickly turned their faces.
"Hmm... Was the gymnastic uniform for this purpose?" Erika had no
mercy for her shy junior.
"Minami-chan wanted Tomitsuka-kun to cancel the mock fight."
Minami was still unable to answer, and Miyuki voiced her idea instead.
"Originally, Tomitsuka-kun asked for a fight with me."
"Then it wouldn’t have been much of match." Erika cut her off.
It is not merely a matter of difference in ability. Tomitsuka, who cannot
fight at a distance, and Miyuki, who can overwhelm her enemy with a
magical bombardment from afar.
If the rules for a contactless battle were used, which are usually used in
mock battles with the opposite sex, it would be a one-sided fight.
"Tomitsuka-kun had obviously lost the ability to make decisions
calmly."
"And Minami stretched her body out so that he could cool his head."
Erika nodded with an understanding face.
"By the way, I haven’t heard about it, but why did Tomitsuka-kun ask
for a mock fight?"
At this point, Mikihiko realized that he also did not know the cause of
the mock fight.
"Tomitsuka-sempai wanted to know where Shiba-sempai is."
Izumi answered this question because she thought Miyuki wouldn't
want to answer.
"Tatsuya’s address?"
Not only Mikihiko had a question mark surface above his head.
"Tomitsuka-sempai’s mother seems to have been hospitalized."
"The mother of Tomitsuka-kun... As far as I know, isn’t she the
Chairman of the Magic Association?"
"Yes. As expected, Yoshida-sempai knows it too."
Mikihiko was not embarrassed by the praise of Izumi. Because his
attention was focused on the continuation of the story.
"Hitsui-sama... That's the name of Tomitsuka-sempai’s mother, seems to
have been severely pressured by the government, demanding her to
persuade Shiba-sempai."
"To persuade him to take part in Project Dione?"
"Yes. It seems that she got an acute gastric ulcer due to the stress...
and will be hospitalized for about a month."
"...It's not Tatsuya's fault, is it?" Leo wedged into the conversation.
"I don't think so."
Izumi immediately nodded. No one objected to the judgement that Leo
and Izumi came to.
"Tomitsuka-sempai said the same thing. But in reality... He clearly
thought Shiba-sempai was responsible. He wanted to know the address
of Shiba-sempai so he could try to persuade him to participate in Project
Dione."
"He wanted to do something... For his mother." Mizuki muttered with
sympathy.
"Speaking of which, Tomitsuka-kun... Looked very depressed after the
match." Even Honoka, who previously condemned Tomitsuka for his
rude behavior, yielded to this atmosphere of sympathy.
"But to blame this on Tatsuya-kun is, I will say, a misunderstanding."
Erika hacked that sympathy at the root.
"Hasn’t Tatsuya already told them, what he is going to do now? And I
think it's wrong to stop him or accuse him." Leo objected to the actions
of Tomitsuka, looking at them from a different angle.
"However, I think that people who say the same thing as Tomitsuka-
sempai are not going anywhere. I'm talking about the people who think
that Shiba-sempai is wrong, and that they are right."
Kasumi was not emotionally attached to Tatsuya, and did not sympathize
with him or his position. She could therefore draw conclusions from a
convenient third-party position. Neither Miyuki, nor Erika, nor anyone
else, could object to her prediction.

Chapter 8

There was a big change in the situation surrounding Tatsuya on

Thursday.
At the Center for the Development of Magic for the Indo-Persian Union,
Hyderabad University, located in the former South India, the leading
figure of this university in the field of magic engineering, known as the
designer of the Strategic Class Magic "Agni Downburst", the female
scientist Asha Chandrasekhar was holding a press conference.
"... For these reasons, we do not support the USNA’s project for the
development of Venus, but we do support the Japanese fusion reactor
project."
Dr. Chandrasekhar announced that they supported Tatsuya’s Project
ESCAPES instead of Project Dione. Until this moment, the Indo-Persian
Federation had not revealed their stance on Project Dione.
Despite the fact that it was not an official message from the government,
and only a press conference held by one scientist, the rejection of Project
Dione was a big surprise for the rest of the country.
Moreover, the reason for this rejection was that they wanted to support
the building of an energy plant, which was not a national project yet but
only a simple private business project, which was announced by a young
Japanese.
Tatsuya’s Project ESCAPES attracted the attention of the whole world
before its official name was even defined.
"...That is, you say that the Turkish Government believes that USNA
should not force other countries to participate in their space exploration
project?"
The day after the press conference of Dr. Asha Chandrasekhar, the TV
channel opposing the USNA televised an interview to the whole world.
An interview with Ali Shaheen, the Turkish "Apostle".
This interview was shown all day on the television networks of North
America and western Europe.
"This is not the government's opinion. It is my personal opinion that the
use of magic for peaceful purposes should be decided by the individual
and not be forced upon them."
In this interview Shaheen expressed his negative opinion about Project
Dione.
"For example, recently in Japan, an innovative project was announced
that used the Stellar Furnace."
"Do you mean the project that Dr. Chandrasekhar from the Indo-
Persian Union also mentioned yesterday?"
"Yes. I don't know if you know or not, but the fusion reactor using
Gravitational Control will solve one of the Three Great Puzzles of
Weight Systematic Magic. The young man named Shiba Tatsuya does
not only use this project to achieve his goals, but also tries to achieve
peaceful use of magic."
"This is a rather ambitious project."
"Yes, I think so too. I wonder if a trend of peaceful use of magic will
spread around the world? I believe that Project Dione is a wonderful
project, but I think they should refrain from behavior that can limit
other potential possibilities."
Since Ali Shaheen's speech was not as intrusive as the press conference
of Dr. Chandrasekhar, it was seen more by the people from America
and Europe.
"I know what Shaheen is up to."
An Official State recognized Strategic Class Magician of the New
Soviet Union, one of the "Thirteen apostles", Lieutenant General
Leonid Kondrachenko appeared on the screen and squeezed his lips
with strong aversion.
"...This boy wants to prevent further cooperation between our country
and America."
Ali Shaheen is 30 years old. For Kondratenko, who is already over 70, he
was undoubtedly a "boy".
"That's why Shaheen wants to stop Project Dione, by showing his
negative impression of it. This is because our country has cooperated
with America for this project. And this boy wants to ruin it."
"...Is it possible that Shaheen acts spurred Japan on?" Igor asked. His
own investigation has not revealed any influence of Shaheen on Japan,
nor any latent connection between them in this case. But Igor thought
that Kondrachenko, who was in the same position as Shaheen, could
know some circumstances that he did not know himself.
"No." Kondrachenko clearly defined his answer. "If someone that
wasn’t in Turkey came into contact with Shaheen, I would have
known about it. This time, he came up with this idea himself."
"Wasn't it a convenient time to do that?"
"After you, the doctor, announced your cooperation with Project Dione,
Shaheen had some time to look for things that could prevent this project.
If our country and America unite efforts, it will be the worst nightmare
for him."
"So, the reason that he announced this was Shiba Tatsuya’s project of a
plant with a Stellar Furnace?"
"Right. For Shaheen, this was like finding a well in the wilderness. And
he jumped with glee."
"But he did not immediately understand whether it was possible to drink
the water from this well. This explains the delay of a few days before he
took action."
"The decision to use Shiba Tatsuya’s project took a maximum of 2-3
days. After that he was preparing his interview, and came to an
agreement with the American TV companies. That's how it really
happened."
Igor did not object to the assumption made by Kondrachenko. Albeit
with minor differences, he thought about the same.
"By the way, doctor. What do you intend to do? I don't think we can
rely on Edward Clark anymore."
"Really..."
He also agreed with Kondrachenko. Igor came to this conclusion when
Edward Clark had failed in the act of trying to use the international
public opinion.
"I'm going back to Vladivostok right now. This time I'm going to take
'Player' *."
[The author uses the Russian word "Player" in the original text. Why this is, is discussed
next.]
"Does that mean?"
"Yes. We can no longer overlook that Strategic Class Magic, which at
any time can bear its fangs towards our country."
"Oh... I pray for your success."
When Igor said he was taking "Player". The eyes of Kondrachenko,
knowing the meaning of these words, shone.

On Saturday, it started to rain around noon.

However, in Miyuki’s head it was sunny. After returning home from
school, her next destination was the villa in Izu, where Tatsuya lived.
She got permission from Tatsuya to come for a sleepover.
Minami was heavily strained by the blissful behavior of her mistress.
Instead of the mistress, who lacked a sense of caution, it was natural to
watch the environment with caution for her sense of duty. And for
some reason, from the moment they left the house, they were
constantly haunted by some kind of unpleasant premonition.
Minami told herself that she was thinking about it too much. Moderate
stress is good for a bodyguard, but if it exceeds a certain level, the
effect will be reversed. Besides, where they're going, there's Tatsuya.
With him nearby, Miyuki’s safety will be guaranteed. Minami’s power
will not be needed...
No matter what Minami told herself, her anxiety did not disappear. But
she could not understand the cause for concern.
They reached Izu before sunset, but the surrounding area was completely
dark because of the rain and fog.
It was a terrible situation when the naked eye could not see further than
10 meters, but the automated driving system and the high-precision
positioning system helped even in such adverse conditions. But sitting in
the driver seat was Hanabishi Hyougo, who could probably still drive
well even under these circumstances.
The car with Miyuki and Minami arrived at Tatsuya’s villa without
almost any delay.
"Hanabishi-san, good job."
Tatsuya, who came out to meet them under an umbrella, first of all
thanked Hyougo who came out of the car.
"Thanks."
On the answering Hyougo’s face one could barely discern the curved
smile, that appeared, perhaps, because of the feeling that someone stole
some of his work. Guilty of stealing the work of Hyougo, Tatsuya did
not care that he was getting wet himself, he opened the back door and
positioned the umbrella so that Miyuki would not get wet. It was
Minami, who got down from the front passenger seat, and ahead of
Hyogo, walked around the car.
"Miyuki, you're here. Minami too, good work."
"Onii-sama, I'm sorry about the intrusion."
Oblivious to the look of Hyougo, Miyuki opened her umbrella and
elegantly greeted Tatsuya. Minami silently bowed to Tatsuya and went
to help Hyougo carry luggage from the car. However, out of the building
soon came a self-propelled trolley with a roof, and took even the work of
these two.
"Miyuki, Minami, get inside first."
Tatsuya sent two girls inside, and he spoke to Hyougo.
"Hanabishi-san, did you want to tell me something?"
"No, I'm not assigned to give you anything today. Just take care of
Miyuki-sama."
"Does that mean there's no traffic anywhere?"
"It does, if we are talking about the situation inside the country."
Tatsuya slightly frowned his eyebrows from Hyougo’s manner of speech,
clearly having a hidden meaning.
"So there is movement in other countries?"
"I dare to assume that Tatsuya-sama has already heard about the press
conference of Dr. Chandrasekhar and about Shaheen's interview."
"Yes, I know."
The conversation prolonged the time standing in the rain, but neither
Tatsuya nor Hyougo was bothered about it.
"However, there was no response from the USNA or the New Soviet
Union." "Do you mean that this is quite unnatural?"
"As you say."
"I got it... I will just have to be on guard and be on the lookout."
"We will try to continue to collect information."
Hanabishi Hyougo had his own information route associated with his
practice in the British PMCs. At the moment, Tatsuya was not in touch
with the Independent Magic-Equipped Battalion, so Hyougo was his
most reliable acquaintance through which he could explore the activities
of other countries.
"I am in your care."
"As you wish. In that case, I'm saying goodbye to you for today."
Hyougo politely bowed, dried his clothes soaked from the rain with
magic, and sat down on the driver's seat.
When Tatsuya returned inside the villa, a number of cups of hot coffee
were already on the table in the living room. To the deep discontent of
Minami, Pixie prepared them.
Instead of changing, Miyuki and Minami quickly drank their coffee to
get warm, then left to change clothes.
They went "together" because Minami expressed her intentions of taking
care of Miyuki.
Returning to the living room, Miyuki was dressed in a comfortable
integral dress in the form of the letter T. Along with the mysterious
elegance created by Miyuki’s appearance, the feeling of grace of a high-
ranking priestess was also present.
Minami was in a cardigan and skirt. Although it was not her usual "dress
+ apron", but even so she looked like she was wearing a skirt like apron.
That's how she created her image.
"Miyuki, and Minami, too, sit down. I want to hear what happened
during the time I was gone."
Having said that, Tatsuya in advance wanted to prevent the start of a
rivalry between Pixie and Minami for the kitchen. Minami did not
become mischievous, she also wanted a little rest. Because she's not a
robot that does not fatigue.
"Let me think... Maybe we should talk about Wednesday."
Minami sat, not showing any discontent on her face (in other words, in
reality she was unhappy with it). Miyuki, sitting next to her and opposite
to Tatsuya, mentally smiled bitterly and began the story.
"Tomitsuka-kun came to the School Council room and asked when Onii-
sama plans to visit the school next time."
Miyuki called Tatsuya "Onii-sama" like the other day and spoke with no
more hesitation or embarrassment.
"And you couldn't answer him."
Tatsuya did not pay attention to the use of "Onii-sama", and showed no
sign of doubt in the sudden request of Tomitsuka.
"I told him that. But then he wanted to meet Onii-sama, and asked where
this villa is located."
"Were there any urgent matters?"
But having heard that he did not just want to wait at school, and was
even prepared to go to him, Tatsuya, as expected, showed interest.
"Yes. Tomitsuka-kun seems to want to try to convince Onii-sama."
"What does he want to convince me of? Why?"
Tatsuya asked both "what" and "why". When he heard about his
conviction, he quickly guessed that it was about Project Dione. But
Tatsuya could not understand why Tomitsuka decided to take such
excessive actions. Maybe because of the connection between them as
classmates?
Answering Tatsuya’s question, Miyuki explained the development of
events from the very beginning in detail. The explanation of the
circumstances in which Minami was also involved, sometimes by
inserting explanations, took some time.
"...So that's how it was? I even feel sorry for him."
Tatsuya indifferently expressed his impression of Tomitsuka, having
finished listening to the story to the end.
"Even Minami was concerned about him."
For Minami, he, on the contrary, cared more.
"No, nothing like that, thank you for your concern."
Though Minami responded instantly, she could not conceal her
embarrassment. Her behavior seems to have been that she didn't expect
Tatsuya to be worried about her.
"In direct combat, Tomitsuka is a strong opponent. Although you were
saved by his simplicity, but you're very lucky that it ended without
injury. You shouldn't have been so reckless."
From the words "You were saved by his simplicity" Minami made a
barely noticeable frown. She felt uncomfortable when she was reminded
again that she had been subjected to the bad thoughts from a
representative of the opposite sex. But in the end, realizing that this
voice carries a real concern, Minami was again confused.
"Yes... Thank you very much."
Miyuki looked at these two with a little scary smile.
Immediately upon arrival in Vladivostok, the data on the location of
Shiba Tatsuya was received from an officer of the Foreign Intelligence
service.
"He is staying at a villa in Izu with his fiancée...?"
His staying away from localities was convenient. Of course, it would be
better for him to be alone, but there is nothing to be done. Igor heard
that the bride, who is his cousin, is also a mighty magician, but he was
sure of his magic. All the more so now that this time he had brought his
external terminal "Igrok" *, which amplifies his magic power.
[Previously described as "Player"]
Igor was a man born from artificial insemination, which in the old way
was called a "baby from a test tube".
It was not through gene manipulation, but through the production of
countless fertilized eggs, and among them was he was chosen as the
most successful specimen.
And he was officially recognized by the New Soviet Union as a
Strategic Class Magician Igor Andreivitch Bezobrazzoff.
Of course, there were attempts to biochemically copy his fertilized egg,
and as a result clones were created, which can be called his "younger
sisters" *. They were expected to become the same as Igor, Strategic
Class Magicians. And in fact, seven clones mastered the Strategic Class
Magic "Tuman Bomba".
[They don't seem to be exact clones for some reason, having a different gender]
However, the clones who received the middle name "Andreevna" had
health problems. None of them could live normally outside of a sterile
room.
And in terms of Magic power, they, unfortunately, were greatly inferior
to Igor. Although they could actually activate "Tuman Bomba", but in
terms of range and activation speed they were not fit for real battles.
But even if they were not used separately, they were useful as external
terminals to help Igor.
They were clones, similar to the original, Igor. Therefore, it was not
difficult for him to synchronize his Magic Calculation Area with them.
In order for the mind to be intact, which is the basis, and not to receive
damage, Andreevna were deprived of their "ego", and were living
machines, "Players", used only to activate the magic of the "conductor"
Igor. He directs the way the players "Play" magic. This was the role of
the clones, called "Andreevna", and how they were forced to live.
[The author conveys the meaning, using a mixture of Russian, English and Japanese
words. The translation was not very explanatory, so I will explain: the word "player"
means "player of an musical instrument", and "Play" magic, means how to perform it in
the form of music. These are all expressions, and in fact nobody plays anything, but just
conjures.]
Every time Igor uses one of them, their minds are broken down. But Igor
does it without hesitation.
He could have had such a fate. But for a winner in a survival
competition, acting like a loser is unnatural. Though he was created, Igor
couldn’t choose any other path in life than being one of the leading
scientist of the New Soviet Union. Even now, things remain unchanged
and he has no choice but to use Igrok.
He entrusted his assistant with the final adjustments to the large CAD
that was being towed by a military train on the New Siberian Railroad.

The movement of each of the "Thirteen apostles", the magicians of

Strategic Class, have a huge impact on the world’s military balance, and
has always been in the spotlight of other countries. Igor of the New
Soviet Union, whose movement had been very difficult to trace, was
now quite easy to see, so among the thirteen apostles he was given
special attention. The thirteen apostles remained thirteen, because after
the announcement of the death of Liu Yunde, Liu Li lei took his place.
And for Japan, in particular, Igor was a Strategic Class Magician from
an unfriendly country with which they share common borders. So he
was considered a direct threat.
Moreover, the attacks carried out in April in the coastal waters of Sado
Island and in the Soya Strait were assumed to have been performed by
the magic of Igor’s "Tuman Bomba".
Monitoring his actions and his continued behavior was a crucial issue in
Japan's National Defense.
Saturday evening, June 8th.
Responsible for the 1-0-1 Brigade, Lieutenant General Saeki Hiromi
received important news through her private channel, and not through
the official army channels.
The news said that Igor together with his personal train moved to the Far
East.
"Although it says the 'Far East', the Russian seaside region is quite
large... He's probably in Vladivostok. And yet, what is this personal
train...?"
There was such information that to activate Tuman Bomb you need to
use a huge CAD the size of a truck or train wagon. According to this
unverified information, there was such a theory that Igor moves through
the territory of the New Soviet Union on his personal train with an
attached wagon-CAD, thus meaning that he could be using Tuman
Bomba.
If this information is correct, the range of Tuman Bomb is not as large as
that of Material burst which can be used from anywhere on Earth.
For magic, in fact, the physical distance does not matter.
But to overcome the real "distance", a deep understanding of magic and
strong self-confidence is required. And also we can say that you need
willpower to deny "erroneous common sense".
If Igor is inferior to Tatsuya in this aspect then that means it might be
necessary for him to approach his target to use Tuman Bomba.
At the same time, it also means that once Igor has moved on a personal
train to the Far East, it means that he could be using Tuman Bomba near
Japan.
Japan itself could also be his goal.
This time it was impossible to deny direct guidance to the lands of
Honshu, Shikoku, Kyushu and Hokkaido.
"...In the current circumstances, there is a high probability of the target
being 'him'."
Saeki thought he should be warned. However, as a result of thinking
about it for a minute, she decided to leave it as it is.
More precisely, she decided to keep on observing. Saeki took the
intercom device and dialed a short number.
"...Lieutenant Colonel Kazama, it's me. Sorry for the late call, but
urgently come to my office."
Tension after the events in the Soya Strait have already gone, and now
was a relatively peaceful time. Although it was quite late, Kazama still
appeared quite quickly.
(If it is Kazama, he should be able to observe what happens while
understanding "him".)
(If it goes smoothly, we can find Igor using "him".) So Saeki thought
when thinking about the most profitable outcome.

With Miyuki at the villa, Tatsuya suspended his research and became
her partner for this time.
Not out of a sense of duty, but because Tatsuya himself wanted to talk to
Miyuki, and spend time with her.
Perhaps it was due to the mental reconfiguration, conducted by his
mother Miya. If all emotions were limited to just one emotion, then the
result was that it would likely heighten the remaining emotion.
However, Tatsuya believed that this was not a problem.
If his feelings were not manipulated…
If he had his own free will, he could envy his almost perfect little sister,
he could shun Miyuki, he could even hate her.
When the older brother is inferior in talent, usually in most cases they
are jealous of the younger sister and hate her.
Therefore Tatsuya thought that it would be better, like now, that he had
no such feelings for Miyuki.
...But it also had a limit.
After they dined and took a bath (this time they took baths separately),
Miyuki requested that both of them to sleep together, but Tatsuya, as
expected, could not agree.
"Miyuki... Sleeping in the same bed is a bit..."
Naturally under the word sleep it was meant to sleep, without any
erotic subtext.
She seems to have prepared for this in advance. Miyuki "begged" just
to sleep on the same bed. It was like a little kid begging a parent to
sleep together.
"We can't...?"
Tatsuya felt dizzy. He felt ashamed that he could not say "impossible"
right now.
"...The other day, I slept in a Japanese-style futon. I think the best
compromise would be if we lay in separate futons in the same room."
"That'll do. Thank you very much, Onii-sama!"
Miyuki joyfully waved her hands in front of her, in quite a good
mood. Nothing can be done, Tatsuya sighed mentally.
Igor took the place of the operator of the big CAD "Argan", in which
there were two "Igroks" placed in sterile capsules, Anna Andreevna
and Veronica Andreevna.
"Argan" was just a common name. The meaning of the word was the
same as the word "organ". Igor commands them like a "pipe organ".
One government official who saw this CAD that occupies an entire
vehicle said it looks just like a “pipe organ” and the name stuck.
[The author may have read about the Maskovskij dialect somewhere, where the "o" is
pronounced as "a". I don't know how else to explain this writing.]
They were similar only in size and shape, with pipes protruding from
the sides and from behind.
"Players" are stuck inside the capsules and the "conductor" closes
them in while sitting in a luxurious chair.
Igrok actually has seven capsules in total. But not all of them are
necessary. To only activate Tuman Bomba, Igor alone is enough.
Igrok is a subsidiary and safety device, and for this scale of an
operation two people were more than enough.
Igor ran his eyes through the information about the vicinity of the target
obtained from the information network of the army of the New Soviet
Union.
The weather in the targeted area is shallow rain. There's no wind.
These were close to optimal conditions for the application of Tuman
Bomba.
The current time is 6 o'clock in the morning. The local time in Japan is
5 o'clock in the morning, the target should still be asleep.
Igor prepared to activate the magic that will turn their usual dreams into
eternal dreams.
In a Japanese-style room, where the ritual to remove the seal was held
last month, two futons were now laying side by side.
Two mattresses were stacked, tightly lying next to each other, without a
gap between them.
Under thin summer blankets a brother slept with his sister, Tatsuya and
Miyuki. Both the young man and woman are engaged to each other.
However, the bedding of these two had no noticeable disturbance.
Naturally, both had not only their own mattress, but also their own
blanket. Their futons, sheets and pajamas only had signs of bruising
from moving in their sleep.
Miyuki with a happy face slept on her side, turning toward Tatsuya.
Tatsuya quietly slept on his back.
There was still some time before dawn.
Even at the earliest moment, it would still take 30 minutes until
Tatsuya’s alarm clock was going to go off.
Neither Tatsuya nor Miyuki had shown any signs of awakening.
The supercomputer, which comes with the CAD "Argan", converts these
targets' positions from the monitoring device into a format that can be
used for the CAD. At the same time, the original activation sequence
data required to build the magic sequence is created by the
supercomputer under the control of Igor.
Rather than defining elements of the activation sequence within your
mind, Igor builds an Activation Sequence based on conditions that were
entered into the computer through the console. In doing so, he could
build extremely complex and confusing activation sequences, impossible
for ordinary magicians.
This CAD uses the same equipment-type computer that is located in the
Far East Headquarters of the New Soviet Scientific Academy. The
performance of the CAD at the academy is much higher, however it
doesn’t have a system designed to use Igrok. Igor brought Argan because
he decided that the assistance of Igrok was necessary for this operation.
Igrok forces whomever is in to sleep by using electric stimuli, but he can
still extract the psions from the Andreevna sisters. The naked women in
their late teens are immersed in a physiological saline that adjusts to the
same temperate as their current body temperatures. They wear
respiratory masks since they aren’t conscious.
However, the capsules did not have any transparent windows, besides,
they were already loaded inside Argan, so no one could see their faces at
the moment. But if you could see their faces it would reflect the sight of
someone in agony, but neither Igor nor his staff would raise an eyebrow
if they saw them suffering.
Immediately after the infusion of psions by Igor into the main module of
Argan, the Activation Sequence starts. Igor and the Andreevna sisters
read the Activation Sequence simultaneously. Igor consciously forces the
two Igrok’s regardless of their consciousness.
Argan adjusts the Activation speed of all three of them so that the magic
output timings are matched. These three people including Igor,
automatically start up the Magic Activation Sequence which will activate
the Strategic Class Magic, Tuman Bomba.
Evil intent threatens me and Miyuki.
Tatsuya instantly surfaced from the depths of sleep to the waking
surface.
(Decomposition of water... formation and recombination of
oxyhydrogen gas*)
[oxyhydrogen gas is a combination of O2 and H2 that is quite flammable
in a 1:2 mixture which is provided from water: H2O]
Immediately after awakening, Tatsuya found the nature of the evil intent
and the nature of the magic used.
(Tuman Bomba!?)
The rain, which went on for a long time, has already turned into a fog.
The process of dividing the rain drops into fog.
The process of the evaporation of fog into water vapor.
The process of decomposing water into oxygen and hydrogen.
And finally, the process of combining the hydrogen and oxygen, then
igniting.
Tatsuya recognized the nature of the Strategic Class Magic "Tuman
Bomba".
He almost unconsciously stretched out his hand to the pistol shaped
CAD Silver Horn Customized modification of the "Trident" which he
left near his cushion.
When he sleeps, he always keeps his favorite CAD within the reach of
his hand.
Countermeasures were prepared, taking into account the experience he
gained while supporting the battle in the Soya Strait.
The chosen magic was not Gram Dispersion, but Mist Dispersion.
Tatsuya targeted the modification of the phenomenon that decomposes
water. Decomposition of water molecules into hydrogen and oxygen.
The purpose of the modification is that all water molecules generated by
the hydrogen and oxygen fusion within a radius of 50 meters will be
decomposed.
Tuman Bomba activated.
Mist Dispersion activated.
The conflicting modifications of the two magics clashed and the
challenge between both mages failed.
"Not completely!"
The enemy’s attack hadn’t finished yet. The magic that copies the
Sequence of Tuman Bomba, “Chain cast” had not finished yet.
With a slight delay, new drops of rain were falling from the sky.
"Leave it to me!"
Miyuki’s magic activated at the same moment when Tatsuya heard her
voice.
She activated “Freeze Flame” which is a Speed-Type and Oscillation-
Type wide area magic that can freeze even fire. It is a conceptual magic
that prevents anything from burning.
"Onii-sama, now!"
"Understood!"
Now, in a 100 meter radius around the villa, nothing could ignite.
Using the time Miyuki won, Tatsuya sent his "eyes" looking for the
operator of "Tuman Bomba". Exploring the "link" aimed at him and
Miyuki, he "searched" for the source of malice.
But he "saw" something else. The enemy attack had not yet ended.
Beyond the range of Miyuki’s magic, high up in the sky, a new Tuman
Bomba was prepared.
Even when the first and second blows of Tuman Bomba were prevented,
Igor was not worried.
Tatsuya was not the only one who gained valuable experience in the
Battle at the Soya Strait.
When Igor suggested that his enemy was the Strategic Class Magician,
wielding the magic of converting mass into energy. He conducted
simulations to find countermeasures in the case they were to face off
again.
The data he had entered into the supercomputer Argan was the data he
had obtained from that tactical simulation to create a chain of Activation
Sequences.
Although he did not expect an enemy that prevented anything from
burning, this magic can’t stop something when the phenomenon has
already occurred, so he aimed outside of the range of Freeze Flame.
In such a case, countermeasures should not be changed.
The simulation based magic attack has already been launched. Igor sat on
his conductor’s chair and waited for the moment when his victory would
be confirmed.
Tatsuya "saw" that at an altitude of 200 meters above the villa, a rain
cloud was producing a dense fog in the shape of a funnel.
This was outside of the range of Miyuki’s "Freeze Flame".
The shape of the inverted funnel was obviously to achieve the Monroe
effect. Tatsuya tried to destroy the structure.
However, even with his Activation Speed for decomposition, he could
not prevent Tuman Bomba, which has already come to its final stage.
He did not have enough time to read the structure of the magic that
formed a funnel from the misty mass.
The foggy mass is broken down into hydrogen and oxygen, but the
oxyhydrogen gas is getting ready to ignite.
According to the Monroe effect, the shock wave of the ignition will be
concentrated at one single point.
And the point of concentration was not in the hole of this funnel, but
much lower, right at the villa.

"Victory!"
This was the final step in the sequence of the three attacks.
Igor was sure of his victory, receiving the response of a successful attack,
which was the same as saying checkmate.
As a side effect of the use of magic, the rain clouds covering the sky
were now gone. Igor doesn’t have a low-orbiting reconnaissance satellite
this time, but he is making use of another satellite that is further away.
Igor accessed the observation data of this satellite using the command
function installed in the CAD Argan.
"What!?" An astonished voice bursted out.
The image that appeared on the portable monitor had a completely intact
villa.
Having taken the concentrated shock wave created by Tuman Bomba,
the wooden building should not remain whole.
According to an analysis conducted half a day ago by a spy satellite, the
villa was a regular wooden structure.
There was a possibility that it could be equipped with a shelter in the
basement, but that the ground part of the building would remain
untouched was impossible. Except for just one possibility.
(The magic of a protective barrier...? Able to stop such a shock wave?)
Igor has not forgotten the existence of magic protective barriers. It was
estimated that even if Shiba Tatsuya or his fiancée would have installed
a shield, it would still not be able to stop the shock wave. Igor was sure
of the power of the concentrated shock wave.
This version of "Tuman Bomba" was the same magic that killed the
previous Commander of the Stars, William Sirius, during a local armed
conflict with the USNA, which occurred in the Bering Strait, and was
named the “Arctic Hidden War” (the Arctic hidden War).
(Has Juumonji Katsuto been involved in the defense?) Igor was aware of
the existence of Juumonji Katsuto, who possessed powerful barrier
magic. Igor knew of Katsuto as the strongest threat to stop his Tuman
Bomba.
(No, there was no such information.)
Thinking about it in his mind, this idea of Igor was immediately thrown
away as a delusional thought. Intelligence should not have lost sight of
the movement of such a dangerous magician.
(But who was it then...?)
Igor was in a predicament when he could not answer this question.
Because of this senseless confusion he missed precious time... And a
chance to win.

As the shock wave came right on top. Tatsuya reflexively hugged

Miyuki in an attempt to protect her.
Minami’s morning began early.
As a performing maid, she was getting up earlier than anyone in the
Shiba family. Away from home, in the villa, this did not change.
But since it was only 5 o'clock in the morning, she was still quite
sluggish and sleepy. No, she didn't have low blood pressure, she's just
not completely awake.
Her rival Pixie was the one who finally awakened the consciousness of
the half-asleep Minami.
"Get up! Protect your master!"
This sound, bursting in her defenseless head, was like a blow to a gong.
The realization that the scream that was made right inside the brain was
the active telepathy of Pixie, came after she had activated her CAD.
In order to fulfill the purpose of the Guardian at any time, she always
kept it at hand, ready for activation. She was already dressed, so it was in
her apron pocket.
Sooner than she realized it, Minami grabbed her CAD in the form of a
mobile terminal in her hand, and pressed the key for quick access,
channeling psions through the finger.
She raised her eyes. In order to reduce the time required to activate
magic as much as possible, she defined the coordinates for the
Activation Sequence as "space in my view where there are no hard
objects".
In Minami’s head, the image of a Dome shaped Magic barrier formed,
covering the roof top. Following this image, the barrier magic was
activated. Immediately after that, a shock wave struck the shield.
Tatsuya’s decomposition magic did not make it in time, but Minami’s
magic made it in time because its magic shield had already completed
formed.
It was magic, stopping any physical attack.
But such a fuzzy definition loaded the Magic Calculation Zone of the
operator.
Magic is easier when you limit the kind of objects you want to protect.
Moreover, the flying shock wave possessed the power to break Minami’s
barrier. In terms of single-layer barriers, Minami’s barriers are
comparable to a Katsuto’s Phalanx. But the way to maintain the barrier is
different from Phalanx.
In the Protective version of Phalanx of the Juumonji family, once the
barrier is formed, it usually is left on its own. Only the duration of
existence is decided, and if it receives an attack, and its superior in
strength, it is simply destroyed. Instead, the next barrier is prepared, that
uses the destruction of the existing barrier as the condition for activation.
Maintaining a multi-layered shield, creating barriers one after the other
with zero delay in time –that is the protective magic of the Juumonji
family.
On the other hand, the barriers of Minami’s "Sakurai" series, is a two-
stage technique of creating barriers to take on physical attacks and she
has to use continuous magic power to maintain the barriers she creates
and to make duplicates if necessary.
If it is the same kind of magic, there is no harm caused by duplication.
For example, Fortification magic, which Leo specializes in, does not
require a higher Interference Power for the next Fortification magic.
Minami’s barrier magic was the same.
She continued to apply barrier magic to the same area. By doing this,
Minami prevented the destruction of the barrier.
But it meant that it continuously activated the magic of protection against
accidental attacks, which has a heavy load, even when it does not accept
any attacks. Such actions strongly overloading the Magic Calculation
Area.
(...I won't lose!)
(I Can't Lose!)
(I will protect Miyuki!
From an objective standpoint, Minami had no reason to be so obsessed
with defending Miyuki.
She is not encouraged to do this out of kindred love, like Tatsuya.
Minami’s genetic aunt, Sakurai Honami took care of Miyuki like she
was family, but these were the events of the past, and not related to
Minami.
They were acquired for the protection of Miyuki, or, in a certain sense,
their series of improved people, "Sakurai" series, was enslaved by the
Yotsuba family only to obey the orders of the young mistress.
Minami has only lived with Miyuki for a short year.
However, suffering from her Magic Calculation Area overheating,
Minami still supported the barrier.
Was it out of stubbornness as a magician?
Or was it because of the distorted system of values that was used in her
training?
Or was it out of fear of being thrown out after use?
There were no such frivolous motives or other negative motives.
With such motives she would not have gone to such difficulties.
Why does she protect? Even when asking herself, Minami wasn’t able
to answer this question.
She doesn't know the reason. She doesn't need a reason.
Having become a shield for Miyuki, Minami resisted the Strategic
Class Magic “Tuman Bomba”.
Created by the magic of Igor Andreivitch Bezzobrazoff that made
oxyhydrogen gas ignite. The shock wave was over. In time, it was a
short event, lasting only one moment. But this "moment" was long
enough for Minami to reach her limit.
Having received the response from the barrier that the attack stopped,
Minami canceled her barrier magic. And at the same time, she lost
consciousness.
Her body lost its strength and collapsed on the floor.
Overheating of the Magic Calculation Zone due to the excessive use of
magic.
Minami fell, losing consciousness, the same way the previous Sakurai
Honami lost her life.

"What happened...?" A stunned Miyuki muttered, still in the arms of

Tatsuya. She also felt the activation of Tuman Bomba and the attack
wave.
Her "Freeze Flame" could not protect her. After switching to
counterattacking, Tatsuya also did not have the time to intercept it.
She didn't think she was dying. Because any wound she would get,
Tatsuya would cure her. No, "restore her" to be more precise.
Somewhere in her heart there was such a dependence on someone else's
kindness, that she was not afraid of the pain that was to come soon.
However, the destruction that was definitely going to happen did not
occur. The pain that comes with fatal injuries did not come. Miyuki,
whose consciousness was occupied by the thoughts of "This is a miracle
Tatsuya" and "You did it all for me", could not understand what
happened.
"Miyuki, Deceleration Zone! Radius of 30 meters!"
"Y-yes!"
The Freeze Flame effect had already ended. Miyuki activated the magic
that Tatsuya requested without any fear of the effects of the magics
overlapping.
Deceleration Zone.
This is the magic that slows down the movement of physical objects in
the targeted area.
In the usual case, this magic only slows down solid bodies, but Miyuki’s
"Deceleration Zone" was able to slow down even gas molecules.
It could also inhibit the expansion caused by an explosion, or in other
words, decrease the speed of the chaotically moving air molecules.
From such deceleration, the shock wave faded and lost its destructive
force.
Tatsuya and Miyuki were originally mistaken. The correct magic to
confront Tuman Bomba was not "Freeze Flame", but "Deceleration
Zone".
"Pixie, take care of Minami!" Tatsuya said in to the darkness, not
waiting for any confirmation of Miyuki activating her magic (because
he trusted Miyuki’s magic skills).
"Yes, sir" Pixie answered telepathically.
He did not give more instructions.
Now the main priority was to prevent further attacks.
Tatsuya resumed the interrupted search for the target. He pulled his
right hand over his head while holding a specialized CAD ,"Trident", in
the form of a large pistol.
With Elemental Sight, he looked for the source of Tuman Bomba. Not
at the source of the explosion, but at where the magic originated from.
The magician who started the magic.
"...It's not Bezzobrazoff?"
Tatsuya read the Eidos of two young women. They were terribly
distorted and fragile Eidoi, clearly, magicians with unsuccessful bodies.
Igor, who was shown at a press conference about his participation in
Project Dione, was a man over 40 years old. There was no guarantee
that that was really him. However, he could with full confidence say
that Igor was a Russian man. He wasn't supposed to be a twenty year
old woman. And Elemental Sight is not mistaken.
Traces of a disguised Eidos, done with the magic "Parade", which is
used by Lina, was not observed.
"Is this another Strategic Class Magician hidden by the New Soviet
Union?"
According to rumors, in addition to the thirteen official Strategic Class
Magicians recognized by States, the world is hiding another thirty to
forty Strategic Class Magicians.
Tatsuya himself was "a Hidden Strategic Class Magician". No matter
who the two women were, he was sure they were the source of Tuman
Bomba.
"If that is the case, I must erase them."
Having strongly said this, Tatsuya activated his three-stage
decomposition magic "Trident", which has the same name as his favorite
CAD.
First it eliminates the event interference that is covering the magicians,
then it eliminates the Data Fortification that protects their bodies, and
finally it decomposes the body down into its constituent elements.
This magic does not "burn" The human body, but makes it "disappear".
This magic that erases human bodies has been activated at a distance of
more than a thousand kilometers.
On the console of the large CAD "Argan", a blinking signal appeared.
At the seat of the "conductor", which was occupied by Igor, the alarm
sounded.
Igor was shocked when he checked the cause of the alarm.
At the same time he felt a strong relief, thinking: I am saved...
The alert message displayed on the console was similar to the following:
"Both capsules, in which the Igroks Anna Andreevna and Veronica
Andreevna were held, exploded."
As if they were fairy princesses, the two Andreevna sisters disappeared
in the form of bubbles inside the capsules filled with saline solution.
The increased pressure due to the vaporization of the human body
exceeded the durability of the capsules, causing the excess pressure to
burst and damage the Argan.
Igor urgently evacuated Argan.
The large CAD, which was damaged by the rupture of the capsules,
required repair. He wouldn't be able to continue attacking even if he
stayed inside.
But now that his dolls have disappeared, he was no longer hidden from
the information dimension. This made Igor afraid of this ultra-long range
magic attack, that made the two bodies disappear.
Igrok's were not only external terminals that helped to activate Igor’s
magic, at the same time they were "firewalls" protecting him. Igor
released Tuman Bomba through Anna Andreevna and Veronica
Andreevna.
Now this barrier is gone. Igor was relieved that he used Argan this time
around, because if he hadn’t, he might have been the one to be erased.
Igor was not dumb enough to just get out of the Argan’s cockpit, he also
popped out of the wagon shaped CAD. And, having ran away from the
railway path, he stared closely at the wagon, fully occupied by the large
CAD.
No more attacks. Igor did not feel humiliation. He just felt relief that he
survived.
Tatsuya erased the two enemy magicians, that he saw through the
information dimension and damaged the CAD they were using, which
could no longer be used to fight.
"Miyuki, that's good enough"
"Yes, uh, Minami-chan..."
Miyuki already understood. That she defended them with her barrier
magic from the shock wave.
"Come with me."
Tatsuya did not have the time to even look Miyuki in the eye as they left
the Japanese style room that was used as a bedroom.
Ignoring Tatsuya’s behavior, Miyuki hurried after him.
And screamed when she saw Minami lying on the floor in the dining
room.

(Continued in the volume Escape, Part 2)

(Grammar and structure edited by englishmuffins10)