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KSGU:Volume 4 Chapter 1

2020-10-16T12:43:17Z

8.20.65.4: /* Part 11 */

==Chapter 1==

===Part 1===

“…What did you just say?”

At that moment, Alberto felt the entire world around him distort, and could not help but ask back. (You should have heard that clearly.) A cold voice rang through the speaker of the headphone.

(I don’t know how they got in contact with each other, but Banagher Links is definitely Cardeas’ son, the son he had with Anna Links after Ellen died.)

Martha Vist Carbine’s steel-like face remained unmoved on the monitor that had static noise on it. ''Banagher Links, that arrogant boy who boarded the RX-0 without understanding the significance and importance of the machine, who ended up bearing the burden of the Laplace Box…that’s right. It was that Links. I definitely heard of this surname before, so why didn’t I think of this possibility? Is it because I didn’t want to admit it—'' Alberto asked his dazed mind and got an answer, and was speechless again because of this shock. The sense of realism was lost from Martha on the monitor and the communication room console, and Alberto continued to feel that his body was distorted together with the world around him.

''Is this a plan that was thought out? Or was it all completely unreasonable coincidence? Either way, Cardeas Vist did not just hand the Box over to a random boy who was passing by, but the fate of the family to the child of the woman who could not become his succeeding wife—and also left aside the one person who originally had this right, the one who should inherit this.''

(Pull yourself together. It doesn’t matter who the “Unicorn” pilot is. The problem is that the machine is already in Neo Zeon’s hands. That’s a failure on your part, Alberto.)

The sharp voice reached his eardrums, dragging his wavering consciousness back in. Alberto grabbed the mic of the headphone and turned his stare of reliance towards Martha on the 15 inch monitor.

“Bu-but, that was the best option in that situation. Without the “Unicorn”, we can protect the Box. I was thinking about letting the “Unicorn” get destroyed there…”

(Results justify everything. I told you before that people will never judge the means, right?)

It looked like it was a casual nudge forward, but in fact, it was a solid leash. Alberto saw that Martha was physiologically  wounding him with her usual tone, and all his momentum was killed off. (I’ve already used up all means that could be used.) The Acting Leader of the Vist Foundation continued on, while all Alberto could do was to listen quietly.

(The Central Government in Dakar received the report about Mineva Zabi being imprisoned, and were panicking over it. Soon after, they’ll be taking action. Just stay over there and see how things develop.)

“Yes…”

(This is a path of no return. You better amend the failure you made. You can do it.)

A path of no return. This line was stuck in Alberto’s heart, causing him to look up, and at this moment, Martha disappeared. He saw his blurry face being reflected on the monitor screen, used his barely numb hand to take down the headphone, and slumped heavily onto the hard chair.

There was no one else in the second communication room located on the bridge block. The narrow and long room had a monitor and console for communications, and two chairs were lit by the reflected light of the power indicator. This facility was meant for unified communication to whichever squadron they belonged to during landing exercises and fleet operations, but the bridge’s communication facilities itself would be enough for the Nahel Argama that would launch alone. This was a place where there would not be much problems for a civilian, who was coincidentally on board, to use as a public phone.

The line here was isolated from the one on the bridge, so there was no worry of the conversation being tapped. The ECOAS surveillance range had not extended here either as only the vague voices of the bridge broadcast could be heard in the room. (Highline Post, get ready to install) (Linking hull at the expected moment. No changes. At the designated time, the Emergency response group are to…) and more messages could be heard. Despite not knowing what they were about, it was most likely that they were preparing to repair the ship. It had been more than 5 hours since the Nahel Argama left the shoal space region to meet the resupply ship the Senate Council sent over, and they were in a situation where it could be said to be absolutely normal.

It had been a day and a half since Neo Zeon attacked and the RX-0, the key to the Box, had been taken away. It was unknown what Martha did, but the Senate Council that was hard to budge finally took action. Their mobile suit squad got wrecked, the Nahel Argama frame had taken obvious damage, but the order to retreat would never come if they took the resupply. The ship was used to carry out a secret mission—and also a ship that housed the heir to the Zabi family, and it would have to continue its journey where the front could not be seen. He had no privacy, could not shower as he wanted, and could not make a call to the psychologist counsellor who he often talked to. His days of being viewed as obstructive and butting heads with Daguza and the ECOAS would still have to continue. “Damn it!” Alberto groaned as he swept aside the headphone on the console.

That would be fine. The stench of the ship’s paint and the unique odor of ozone had completely stained his body, and he had to endure that too. What was hard for him to endure was the fact that he was unable to sleep. ''That man’s'' voice dragged his thoroughly fatigued body from sleep together with the air-conditioning and the gust from the motor.

''A path of no return…when will I forget the feeling of squeezing that trigger? There was no other way. That man was the one who wanted to break the 100-year worth of order after all. That man left me alone when I’ve always done the most appropriate thing, so why did he—'' Alberto clenched his stiff hands.

“Why…am I not the chosen one?”

He squeezed out the voice from deep within his throat, and his trembling body felt the weak gravity behind it. Alberto did not lift his face from the console until this surge of emotions subsided.

===Part 2===

The wall was covered with a soft mat used for self-mutilation prevention, and the ceiling had a surveillance camera installed. There were no windows, and the door had a peephole through the doorgrill. The scene for a prisoner detention room was the same for either Federation or Zeon. If there was a difference, it would be that the air-conditioning here would be quieter.

Amidst the silence, the sound of an electronic lock being unlocked was heard. Mineva Zabi sat on the hard mattress of the built-in bed and looked towards the opening door.

''It’s not mealtime yet…is it a new interrogator?'' As Mineva thought this way and got ready to get defensive, a familiar face appeared at the door. Mineva did not know what expression to make at this point as she kept her mouth shut. Riddhe Marcenas had his back facing the light from the corridor as he too stared at Mineva with a tense expression.

“Audrey Burne…no, I should be calling you Mineva Zabi, right?”

Riddhe turned his hand to close the door behind him as he said with a somewhat gloomy voice. His eyes had icy cold anger in them. Mineva did not think that a pilot had a need to meet her, and she did not feel that the higher-ups would agree to this. She realized that this was not an official meeting, and clenched her trembling fists as hard as she could. Riddhe casted an unmoving stare on Mineva and said with a suppressed voice, “I often heard the Zabi family’s speeches when I was young.”

“Gihren Zabi was your uncle, am I right? When his younger brother Garma died on Earth, Zeon carried out a state funeral on its land. It was probably broadcasted throughout the world. About how they should not let Garma’s death be put to waste, that only the citizens of Zeon who were inferior were the elites chosen by heaven, that speech where people kept chanting ''Sieg Zeon Sieg Zeon''.”

It had been the day before…no, it seemed that it was two days before since the time both of them snuck into the “Unicorn” hangar secretly and chatted about meaningless things like how she looked like some actress. Riddhe probably spent this time facing reality as he used a stiff expression to restrain the anger and sorrow he was tasting at this point as he walked towards Mineva in his grey officer uniform. Mineva held back the urge to move back as she looked right at Riddhe’s face.

“''Sieg Zeon, Sieg Zeon''…thousands of spectators shouted just like that. It was really a vexing scene. I was just a brat back then, but I remembered that I had goosebumps. What’s with everyone from children to old folks doing the same thing with indifference? Are they robots? Can’t they think for their own? Don’t they think about what they feel?”

Closing in at a distance where their fingertips could touch each other, Riddhe clenched his fists hard, “SAY SOMETHING!” the rude voice caused the air in the narrow detention room to tremble slightly.

“Did Neo Zeon do that too? Making everyone shout Sieg Zeon or something that. Say it here then.”

That expression of his was wavering, unlike the words he said. Riddhe took a short breath and looked away from Mineva’s probing eyes, and yelled “SAY IT!” as he looked aside.

“Say Sieg Zeon. Let me know that you’re the princess of Zeon. If not…”

The stuttering voice had a tinge of crying at the end, silently moisturizing the air in the room. ''What is this person here? Why does he look so hurt'' Mineva’s chest had this tight feeling as she had this doubt, and she looked up at this young man’s face. ''Like me—this person may not be able to find a way to express his thoughts into words. He has so many things he wants to say, to confirm, but everything and anything became shallow before he could speak up.''

“…Never mind. So be it.”

After a long moment of silence, Riddhe ruffled his blond hair and stared at Mineva with a hesitant look. “I heard that you’ve been keeping quiet about this. How someone with the identity of Mineva Zabi could slip into a Federation ship like this…I think it’s not something a pilot like me can ask. I’ll leave the rest to the experts.”

He said this to affirm himself—no, for himself to hear as he turned back. Mineva saw Riddhe back that felt like he was maturing, and heard him say, “But at least remember something.” And lifted her chin.

“A guy once offered his life for a girl called Audrey Burne…that guy kept calling your name until the end. Not Mineva Zabi, Audrey.”

Mineva’s heart pumped for a moment as the face of the boy who ran alongside her in the alleys of the colony appeared in her mind. Riddhe glanced at her silent face as he quietly walked towards the door. ''This man’s thinking is too one-sided.'' Mineva instinctively thought this way, but this was not enough to wipe away that inexplicable sense of guilt. Thus, she spoke up, “You really don’t know anything at all.”

Riddhe stopped his hand that was reaching for the door handle. His face that showed shock and some anger turned around, causing Mineva to feel that he was an upright person. She suppressed the rumbling feelings under her chest as she continued, “Who are the experts you’re referring to?”

“The inquisitors or anyone related to the judicatory…”

“Nobody from the judicatory will be involved in this. The mission itself won’t be exposed, and news of my detainment won’t be reported.”

''It’s pointless to talk more, and even if I do, nothing will change, and nothing can be redeemed.'' Despite this thought, Mineva continued to move her mouth that had been stiff silent for the entire day. Riddhe’s expression changed as he turned to Mineva and asked, “What do you mean?”

“Just like what I said. Do you think this operation can be reported?”

“But this incidence and the detainment of Mineva Zabi…”

“If news of my detainment were exposed, Neo Zeon will have to take action. Why is it that Full Frontal was not willing to admit that I’m Mineva Zabi?”

“That’s because he doesn’t want our side to fight using a hostage…”

Riddhe swallowed back the words he wanted to say next as he shut up. “You’ll understand if you think about it carefully.” Mineva said as she looked down at the floor.

“The reason why I had not been captured for the past 4 years. The reason why Neo Zeon could built up its arms…”

The passionate Spacenoids’ tragic wish for independence, the sacrifice of countless nameless warriors all by risking their lives for the sake of Neo Zeon’s revival—these were the reasons but ideals alone would not do anything. Even anti-government movements would not be able to have power if the political environment and economy were not working. “You’re saying that this is a planned thing? That the Federation and Neo Zeon set this up?” Riddhe asked, and Mineva took the doubt with a shameful feeling.

“The incident at “Industrial 7” will probably still have some mass coverage, but continuous reporting will disappear within 2 days. This will become an unforgivable phenomenon for those who lost their relatives or friends…but the Spacenoids are already used to the unreasonable acts by the Federation. The Federation had always allowed our existence silently, obviously to use us as a shield for dissentment.”

It was a similar reason as to why police organizations would not hunt down triads seriously. It was similar to preventing the lawbreakers from scattering by uniting them in one trashbag. The Federation and Neo Zeon had been keeping this line, letting this gear of economy—the force called tension spin. In this sense, it would be more appropriate to call them birds of a feather instead of this being just a clever ploy. “This is the case up till now.” Mineva added these words and kept quiet. “…Did the Laplace Box break the balance between both sides?” Riddhe mused as he showed an expression that an unknown circuit was connected inside him.

“Yes. But that is probably not all of it. The Federation probably wanted to establish its relationship with Neo Zeon if we consider the fact that a mobile suit like the “Unicorn” was developed. It’s possible to think that because of this, the Vist Foundation moved the Box that had remained sealed up till now.”

Cardeas once said that peace and stability were fragile. In this era, where ideals turned to nothingness, where even the resistance movements had to be ‘managed’, it was a lot easier to slip into the loopholes of the ‘management’. Full Frontal, who had been raising arms under the ‘management’, only to vaguely show his deep intentions to break the current state, was like that. The same goes for the head of the Federation army carrying out the reorganization plan to cut military forces and wipe out Neo Zeon entirely. Cardeas probably wanted to introduce this catalyst, the Laplace Box, in order to turn this distorted world into something that could be seen by the naked eye. The memories of the War were long gone, and people believed that they could ‘manage’ war as well. Their senses showed indifference…and they ignored the signs of a great crisis.

''Either way, it’s useless to think about this again.'' Mineva looked at how she was being imprisoned and restricted on a Federation ship, and sighed slightly. If it could be as what Riddhe said, if she could be handed over to a public judicatory for a fair trial, she would be able to explain her current situation to more people. However, the chances of this would be bleak here. Once news of her detainment were revealed, Neo Zeon and even the Zeon supporters hidden in the Federation government would follow up and fight against the conservatives for their own political agendas that would continue. As both sides continued to plot, the weary clashes that would be brought about would not be what they wanted. It would still be meaningful to consider Mineva Zabi as missing. ''Will I be listed as an anonymous prisoner and get hidden by something? Will I have to change my name and get ‘managed’? Or will it be the worst situation where my disappearance will have to be for real…this isn’t impossible.''

''Of course, it’s another thing altogether with the Box. The Federation army will most likely carry out some operation to get back the “Unicorn Gundam” from “Palau”. This Nahel Argama will be taking part in that battlefront too, I suppose. In the end, this is just an extended internal battle over the Box, and political muscle alone will not be able to settle things down. Even if the pilot of the “Unicorn” is alive, no one will care about whether he’s dead or alive—''

[[Image:KSGU4 021.png|thumb]]

“…It’s really hard to understand.”

Mineva heard his musing and stopped her pessimistic thoughts as she lifted her face. She saw the extremely depressing looking Riddhe giving a tired look to the floor.

“I always deemed myself as a pilot. My job is to pilot a mobile suit, to actually finish the task I’m given, and not to think about any other unnecessary things. Even if there may be cons, I believed that the Federation government still has the power to correct it…no, this is just a lie. I just pretended not to look, not to think. It has been the same ever since I remained at ‘‘family''…”

It was a reasonable confession, but the term ‘‘family'' lingered in Mineva’s ears abnormally for some reason. “Finally, please tell me something.” Riddhe continued as he looked back at Mineva’s eyes.

“Since you already understand this, why did you still act on your own?”

This was a sincere question, and Mineva was somewhat shocked by Riddhe’s upright stare as she answered with a wary and fearful look, “I too had a ‘‘family'' ever since I was born.”

“It was a ‘‘family'' that bored the crime of the One Year War. Some viewed me as a source of danger, and some would try to promote me as a sign of the revival of Zeon. No matter what, I could not break away from political ties. If the same mistake happened again, I have a duty to stop it even if it means giving up my life.”

“Even if another danger will happen because of your disappearance?”

“I said it already, did I not? The fact that I’m not around will not be revealed. To the people who treat politics as a way of life, I’m just a piece on a chessboard. However, this is not what politics should be about.”

As she talked with Riddhe, Mineva realized that the vague thing she felt was forming into shape. “What the person at the scene should carry out…responsibility and duty, is that it?” Riddhe muttered to himself, and suddenly gave a determined stare to a corner of the wall. Mineva saw that he was looking for something, and inadvertently followed the stare, thinking about what the ''family'' Riddhe Marcenas was about. If it were the name Marcenas, the first thing she thought about was be the Prime Minister of the violent Federation Government…

“Oi, Riddhe. You should restrain yourself there.”

The voice suddenly butted in, interrupting Mineva’s thoughts. A guard with a helmet on appeared on the other side of the door grill’s peephole.

“It’s almost time for a swap. Even you can’t get away easily if you’re caught.”

Got it. I’ll go out now.”

Riddhe nodded slightly at him, and turned to Mineva again. At this moment, Mineva noticed that the power indicator of the surveillance camera above Riddhe’s head was not lit.

“I understand very well that you should be the one standing amongst the crowd to speak up. At the same time, I realize that I may not know anything at all.”

The stare that was much calmer than how it was when Riddhe entered the room showed his outstanding learning ability. “But you’re a person of Zeon.” He wordlessly looked back at Mineva, who heard his stiff voice and clenched the fists on her knees tightly.

“We were once close privately, but you’re still our enemy, the one who caused Squad Leader Norm to die. I can’t forgive you like this.”

''It’s to be expected for someone who has such emotions.'' Mineva understood that this feeling would cause people to make mistakes or save them, and took the show of determination of the youth in front of her with all she got. Riddhe turned around, and this time, really held onto the door handle.

“…I really hoped that we met somewhere else.”

Mineva could not speak up, and she had no time to answer. Riddhe quickly stepped out of the door and closed it to cover his back. The sound of the electronic lock activating reverbed. It remained in the one-person detention room for a while before disappearing.

Mineva sighed and leaned on the wall with the mat. She, who felt emotional, was so tired that she felt shocked. ''There was no one who could learn anything or be saved through words.'' She felt that she was the one who really did not know anything as she looked around the dim detention room.

''If he can survive, Banagher will probably be detained like this. Mineva blankly thought of this in her mind, which became heavy as she closed her eyes. She, who had never taken a single nap ever since she was detained, did not take much more time to fall into a deep sleep.

===Part 3===

The sound of the electronic lock being opened rang, and what replaced it was the sound of knocking. Banagher Links’ face left the window of the ship as he stared at the people appearing at the door.

As expected, Marida Cruz was standing there. Her shirt comprised of a crimson fabric with gold embroidery, matching the white pants that showed the figure of her legs. Her collar had the emblem of Zeon, the wings on it, and Marida's eyes above that were glowing quickly scanned the room. Marida knew that Banagher did not have the strength to resist, but her cat-like stare would not relax as she showed no openings. The slender body that looked like it was in tight-fitting clothes stepped into the room and put the food tray on the simple table.

Including this time, it had been two days since she brought food in. Including the time he passed out, it had been two days since he was detained in this ship. Banagher glanced at the food tray that had some randomly microwaved food, and stared at the side of Marida’s face as she wore the uniform of the “Sleeves”. The only noteworthy things in the cabin were the bed, the simple table, and the 30cm wide window, and her clear figure which looked rather glamorous.

He recovered in the infirmary, and was then treated, questioned and detained. It was basically a repeat of his predicament in the Nahel Argama, but the air flowing inside -this ship was basically different. ''What’s the name of this ship? Where’s it heading? What about the “Unicorn” that’s taken in as well?'' Even when he asked, he would not get an answer. When he stubbornly asked them, he got a killing stare. Besides, this was a ship belonging to the “Sleeves”—Neo Zeon. It could not be helped, but Banagher was already enemies with them.

''I’ve already explained that he was not a Federation soldier, and also about how I met Audrey. It seems from the attitude of the interrogator, that I won’t have to worry about being treated cruelly, but I can’t relax here. Any treatment may happen as long as I’m involved with the “Unicorn”. I might be drugged and questioned, tied up to a chair or something, forced to spill out everything, and become a vegetable—''Banagher beat away these unstable thoughts as he continued to stare at Marida’s actions. At this moment, her face suddenly turned, and the sapphire blue eyes stared at Banagher without hesitation.

Banagher unwittingly gasped as he did not have time to even pull back as he was grabbed on the chin from behind and lifted. He was easily lifted right in front Marida, and their faces were right in front of each other. The deep blue eyes blinked as they stared at Banagher’s eyes. The soft and gentle body odor reached Bangher’s nose, who thought ''So a female’s sweat is sweet'' in an inappropriate situation, only to be clumsily pushed backwards as he stuttered a few steps.

Banagher landed on the bed with his backside and immediately got up. Marida said with a straight expression “Your eyes are still bloodshot. Use this.” and took out something from her pocket before tossing it to Banagher.

It was a spray canister that was large enough to be held in the hand. Obviously, it was an eye ointment that was meant to be used under zero gravity. “The weakest organs under gravity in a human body are the eyes.” Marida continued, and Banagher stared back at her blankly.

“It’s not weird for the eyeballs to pop out the way you were shaken at such speed. Rest your eyes as much as you can.”

Marida turned her back on Banagher without waiting for an answer. The orange-tinge chestnut-colored hair that was tied in a knot—like what he saw at “Industrial 7” was gently released, and it seemingly mocked him as it swayed about like it was a kid. “Looks like you don’t know anything at all.” Banagher held onto the eye ointment tightly and retorted back,

“Are these the feelings of a soldier, or a terrorist?”

Banagher took the strength of Marida’s lower body head on as he turned around. It was an expression that showed that she could use violence, one full of killing intent. As he did not succumb to this when he met her, it forcefully changed his fate after that. No, not just him; but also the fates of all the people in “Industrial 7”.

He did not know what Marida did in that battle, but she was definitely one of the people who caused “Industrial 7” to be in such a huge mess. ''Even if she shows concern, I can’t let my guard down easily. Banagher used his trembling legs to steady himself on the low-gravity floor, and continued staring back at Marida, who answered back,

“You’re rather talkative after knowing that you won’t be killed.”

The ounce of strength that was supporting Banagher was reduced to nothing once that unwavering voice stated his true thoughts. He could not find anything else to retort back about as he looked away.

“I feel that I am a soldier, but we will have differing opinions. There are armies who use hostages just to be saved.”

“That’s because…”

“The worst kind of people are those who will only criticize and not do anything on their own.”

The forceful force caused the rebuttal Banagher was about to spew out from his mouth to dissipate. He swallowed his saliva and could only stare at the sapphire blue eyes that reminded him of the deep sea.

“You took action to help the Princess, so that’s why you’re being treated as such. In other words, you’re already a part of it.”

“This is…too one-sided. The reason why I’m allowed to live is because you want to understand the “Unicorn” more, right?”

“That’s one of the reasons too.”

“What about Audrey? She’s been preventing the Laplace Box from falling into Neo Zeon’s hands. Which do you think is more important? The Box or Audrey?”

“It’s not our job to decide these things.”

Marida turned her face away, seemingly trying to block out these words. Banagher realized that he seemed to have touched on a topic he should not have mentioned, and immediately shut up.

“Soon, we’ll reach our home. All the decisions will be made there. Rest whenever you can.”

“Home…?”

It was not a base or a headquarters, and the unfamiliar term home caused Banagher to frown. Marida touched the strands of hair beside her collar and gently used her chin to point at the other side of the window.

The Moon, Earth and Sun could not be seen in this bright space that was radiating with silver stars. At a point, a black shadow shaped like a bow was there. It was hard to tell the scale of it, but it did not look like a mere piece of rock floating in the shoal space region. If the lights were space navigation lights for the ships, the size of it should be bigger than a space colony. Perhaps it was a mining asteroid? Banagher brought his face as close to the small window as possible as he stared at this oddly-shaped rock. The sun in the distance shone on the tip of the bow-shaped rock, giving the vibe that it was at least the size of an asteroid. Multiple such asteroids were linked to each other, forming a bow-shaped large planet—

“That’s “Palau”, our home.”

Marida said. Banagher moved his face slightly as he did not turn his stare away from the unknown world in front of him. The rocky surface full of craters was lit with numerous lights, and the asteroid called “Palau” showed its silent face in the middle of the eternal night.

===Part 4===

The base, a space colony, was built as part of the space migration plan, so obviously, it required a large number of resources. The number of resources they could extract from Earth was not enough ultimately, and cost-wise, it would not be effective to move materials from the atmosphere. Thus, the people in the old century turned their eyes on the Moon. They built a lasting resource extraction base on the Moon, and the next step was the Asteroid Belt that existed in the region between Mars and Jupiter, a field abundantly rich in resources.

It was a hive of rocks that could not come together to form a planet because of the powerful gravity of Jupiter near it. In this belt, he floating asteroids there amounted to at least hundreds of thousands based on the observations in the old century, and it was said that there were millions of them. The overall mass of these rocks were said to be 1/35 the mass of the Moon, and most of them had outstanding minerals. Of course, these asteroids were not so concentrated that they had to be explained on an encyclopedia, and they were all sporadically scattered amongst the wide space. However, it was not impossible to lock onto a single asteroid and send an excavation team from the Earth Celestial Sphere. Also, once they knew that there was an asteroid that was suitable for mining, they would install nuclear pulse engines on it and head back to Earth on their shuttle. To humanity, which had welcomed the Universal Century, this was not a tough thing to do.

Amongst them, the most famous was the small asteroid Juno that was in the Moon’s orbit during UC 0045, dubbed “Luna II”. In the year 0060, it was made a military base called Luna Two. One purpose was to act as the largest headquarters for the Federation Army, while the other was to continue the mining activities. “Palau” was one of these mining space colonies as well. This colony was so isolated that nobody other than the people involved in colony business would know of, but it had an extraordinary history. It was said that some of the smaller colonies were dragged in from the Old Century. The added condition to the mentioned part was because “Palau” was built by having many small asteroids linked to each other, which accounted for its unique bow-shape.

Simply put, a triangular block protruding out from the tip of the bow, and the bottom comprised of 3 irregularly shaped rocks connected to each other tightly. The 4 blocks that were too small to be called asteroids were connected by multiple shafts, and it would be hard to tell that they were not asteroids unless one looked from up close. This “Palau” was a mining satellite that was 30+km wide, 15km long in diameter maximum , and looked like some realistic imagery.

As with any mining satellite, the surface of the rocks had countless space gateways and monitors. The main portion, the triangular block had two round cylinders of living areas, and each embedded on 6km wide caves on the rock surfaces. There were approximately 30,000 people living in the residential area that was maintained by centrifuge force, just like a space colony. It seemed that these people lived by mining. That was Maridas’s explanation. The ship Banagher was on—the Neo Zeon’ flagship “Rewloola” entered “Palau” together with the “Garencieres” that was disguised as a trading ship.

The ships did not enter from the space gateway on the surface, but got in through a gap where the 4 blocks of rock were leaning and attached to each other. Banagher understood that the structure was the inner hollow that was dug out, creating a ‘port’ that could not be seen from the outside. However, this was all he could tell from the window of the hull. As the pressurizing rock formation and the large intertwined shafts were right in front of the windows, Banagher thought that they finally made it through, only to be taken out of the room. The moment his view expressed, he felt that he saw several ships docked in the enclosed conical-shaped space and mobile suits moving around, but Marida held onto his head, allowing him no time to check. Banagher was accosted outside, took the standard precautionary checks, and stepped onto “Palau”.

He had no chance to see the entire port. He passed through the zero gravity block, moved to a structure that looked like a terminal, and saw a chartered linear car waiting for them. This was a similar kind of transportation as the “Subway” used in the space colony, but they were really moving underground. Amongst the passengers, there were several men said to be crew of the “Garencieres” other than Marida. They obviously showed a different vibe from the crew of the “Rewloola”. Everyone were wearing glamorous looking uniforms with gold lacing, but there was the feeling that these did not fit them. In the old times, there was the saying ''Clothes makes the man '', but there seemed to be exceptions to that rule. Perhaps the vibe of not liking fancy outfits outweighed the rest here. Either way, these people had the vibe of being part of a yakuza clan.

From the conversation, it seemed that Marida was a crew member of the “Garencieres”. ''Why was she the only one on the “Rewloola” and taking care of me?'' Banagher did not have time to think as the linear car moved, while the scenery outside the window was filled with rocks. After 5 minutes, they came out of the passage, and the excavation field that was dug into “Palau” appeared right in front of him. He looked like a primary school student experiencing a field trip as he stuck his face on the wall, not moving at all.

The excavation field seemed to pass through the triangular conical star, approximately 400m in diameter and more than 10km in length. This extraordinarily large space was surrounded by multiple network-like shafts. It was said that these shafts were connected to the living quarters and the port and other places. The final point of the excavation field however had an automatic firing system—a Mass Driver. It looked like it would shoot out the minerals that were dug out. Banagher deduced this from what he saw from the window, and basically, the facilities in the mining field reminded Banagher of his old home.

The factories that were near the walls of the cave did not seem to be working, and the mining machinery placed all over showed no signs of operating. Everything was covered in rust and dust, and there was the sense of a reddish-brown color fading in with the rocks. There were a few mini mobile suits moving the rocks, flying around numbly in the work environment without gravity, but the models were so old it was scary. Half of the solar panels of the artificial Sun could not be seen, and a mere sunset-like light was shown. Only the term ‘emptiness’ could describe the current scene beside the abandoned quarry there.

“It was not like this before. About 50 years ago, when the building of colonies was rampant, the chimneys here would be giving off smoke. It was said that people could not see the other level because of the smoke that was puffing out…however, the rocks here were not of outstanding minerals. Ever since mining excavation began here, there would be some other bits of stone mixed in to add up, and they managed to somehow bluff their way through. Right now, we’ve finished digging up as much as we can, and we only dig up some spare change.”

The one sitting beside him, Gilboa Sant, looked outside the window as he said. As a crew member of the “Garencieres”, he was an earnest looking black man who looked to be approximately 30. Also, he seemed to be a citizen native to this “Palau”. At least, when he was Banagher’s age, this place was not called “Palau”. When the colony committee decided to close this place down, an investor from somewhere bought this star, and named it “Palau” after the place on Earth that was attacked. Ever since then, “Palau” was designated as a special administrative zone under Side 6, and that investor safely took the role of superintendent. In the old century terms, it was basically buying a desolated island from a country. He could call himself a superintendent, but in fact, he was like a villager. Gilboa explained to Banagher,

“In the past, the Republic of Zeon once had a space base called “Solomon”, right? It seemed that this “Palau” was named because of the place that was attacked. Both these names were names of islands on Earth, but Solomon was the name of a king in a myth, and had nothing to do with that island. Anyway, they’re just trying to being trendy.”

Simply put, everyone on “Palau” was a full-fledged Zeon supporter. He probably hoped that there would be special needs after the war as he continued to buy mining quarries that could not be run while providing these resources to Neo Zeon. The Side 6 that became a pivotal point everyone knew of during the war was said to have some secret relations with the Republic of Zeon. If the superintendent allowed, it was not impossible to hide from the Federation’s eyes at this place. This was the case after the Second Neo Zeon War, when the government actively purged the remnants of Zeon.

''We’ve now entered the phase of exterminating in this Zeonism War'' the Federation declared this, but had not done anything to the entire satellite that was filled with resources and made into a base. Banagher’s dull mind was stimulated because of this, and it seemed to let him understand that the ‘relationship’ between the Federation and Neo Zeon was not as what he imagined, but he did not have the time to think more. The bearded man who was travelling with them glanced over at Gilboa who was rattling out careless, giving a look to tell him to stop, and Banagher unwittingly looked into this bearded man’s stare.

He was the man the crew called the captain. Ever since they met, Banagher had been wondering, ''Those were the eyes alright.'' He was the man who pointed his gun at Banagher in “Industrial 7”. He met the blond guy beside before, and recalled. ''Speaking of which, that ship that ruined my job by docking in that morning was the “Garencieres”.''

''They were already implicated with this situation right from the beginning. The man who chased after the stowaway Audrey and sent Marida over was most likely this guy—this captain called Zinnerman.'' Banagher looked over at Zinnerman, and sat down on the seat that was slanted at the front. ''If these guys never came, “Industrial 7” would be okay.'' The rage swelled up in him as the fear that they controlled his fate exploded at the same time, causing both emotions to form a vortex within him. However, Zinnerman did not look at Banagher anymore. Gilboa shrugged as he stopped talking too, leaving only the sound of the linear car moving.

Banagher sighed as he looked at Marida, who was looking at the back of Zinnerman’s head as she sat on a seat opposite. Those sapphire blue eyes were looking like she was being loyal to her superior, oozing with an odd sense of passion. Her tense face was rather outstanding amongst the other crew members who were randomly looking around and relaxed.

''What kind of relationship do they have?'' Banagher could not find words to ask, and had no courage to ask as his eyes escaped to the window. There was a large quarry below the linear car, below the shafts on the walls—though it was a meaningless description under this zero gravity environment. They sped on, reached a fork soon after, turned towards a cave, and the car moved towards one of the many shafts.

The quarry passed his eyes, and the narrow passage again surrounded the linear car. For a moment, darkness visited the car, covering Marida’s worried looking expression

===Part 5===

The group got off the linear car that reached its destination and got on the elevator leading to the residential area. As he felt the unique feeling of his abdominal muscles, the elevator descended 800m, sending Banagher’s group to the gravity block of the “Palau”.

The group did not head for the city located within the walls, but went through the lobby and head for another underground passage. It looked to be a service route for work as they passed through many gates that were defended by armed guards. As Zinnerman and Marida quickly moved on, Banagher inadvertently stopped to look past the other side of the gate.

The pillars supporting the roads had become round ones with cravings, and the walls had a grassy green fabric with Arabian patterns hanging off them. The worn out wall lights lit the red carpet that was laid all over the place. Waiting at the end was the large archway-shaped doors were two soldiers dressed in khaki uniforms, a short mantle, and wide rimmed helmets, giving an aged feeling. They were the same as the Republic of Zeon soldiers that were thought in history textbooks. The remnants of a defeated country, what looked like dead souls of soldiers that escaped a war museum were looking back at Banagher.

Zinnerman stood in front of the door, wearing a black shirt with gold laces. The Zeon soldiers gave a salute, and swiftly opened the door. The space acting as the staff room, which may be too big, appeared behind the door, causing Banagher to gasp a second time. The ceiling inside should be around 2 levels tall, and the 4 round pillars had spiral shaped carvings. There was an oil painting hanging above the electric heater that seemed to be for heating purpose <--!Didn’t make this up-->, and the curtains draped on both left and right sights gave a solemn feeling that was hard to tell if they were antiques. The unevenness of the teeth-shaped ornaments could be seen on the beam, and even the ceiling lights cover had similar carvings that showed the delicate skill of the craftsman. All the furniture showed some form of balance, and yet showed a luxury that one might mistake to be nobility in a palace.

Despite looking antique, it had no semblance to past designs. Banagher was overwhelmed by this scene that could only be described as Zeonism as he remained stunned. The Vist family too had an antique feel, but it was different. If the Vist family’s scene could be described as being based on luxury, this would give goosebumps while looking like it was meant to intimidate others. It looked to be an expression of culture by the people sent from Earth to the furthest Side, made after they got over their self-defeat—as they lost the Republic, they could only live in the dusty-smelling depths of the caves, a sand habitat that was like a flash in the pan. Banagher did not feel fear or uneasy, just weird as he stared at the anomaly sitting right in front of him.

That man was wearing a red uniform, wearing a mask as he faced Banagher. ''Is he a human?'' This was the first impression Banagher had. He could not detect any sense of lift from that man, not just from the mask covering his eyes, but also the vibe that he was artificially created. He stared at the masked man who sat on the Mahogany made office table, and seriously thought that it might really be part of the decorations in the room. However, that man said “I admit, this is not in good taste.”, shocking him.

“The superintendent of this “Palau” is a supporter of the old Zeon republic. Our army did not request anything from him when we regrouped, but he built this command post. It’s said that he replicated the interior decorations final base of the old republic army—A Baoa Qu.”

It was hard to tell if it was the mask talking in front of Banagher, as that was a slightly chilly voice. The masked man continued as he stared at the silent Banagher, “You have to accept other people’s kind intentions honestly.”

“Although it doesn’t actually fit my tastes, I think it is also one of the required qualities of a leader.”

Before Banagher could respond, the stare went through the anti-glare filter and stared right at Zinnerman’s group. “It’s been tough on you, Captain. You do not have to accompany us here.” On hearing this, Zinnerman answered, “Yes, Captain Full Frontal.” His heavy voice echoed through the room.

Full Frontal…Banagher stared back at this masked man as Zinnerman and Marida walked out of the room. He heard of this name before. Banagher had an impression of this name being mentioned by someone on the Nahel Argama when he hurriedly launched out. ''The Red Comet, the Man called the Second Coming of Char—that’s right, it’s the pilot of that red mobile suit. That Char who appeared on the news during the Republic era too used a mask to cover his face…''

“What is it? Please take a seat.”

The unexpectedly earnest voice came from below the mask, causing Banagher’s mind to rid itself of its arranged thoughts. He resisted the urge to get up as he sat on the sofa beside the heater. A young soldier wearing a white servant uniform immediately closed in and poured red tea into the teacup on the table. As the servant left without looking at him, Banagher sensed that there was another stare looking at him.

It was a young officer standing beside Frontal. Despite wearing a bright green uniform, his sense of presence was covered by the masked man, and Banagher did not notice him…or rather, perhaps he was deliberately trying to keep a low profile as she stood beside. Either way, the stare on Banagher was exceptionally tight when compared to Frontal’s, intimidating Banagher a little. The servant walked out of the room, and the ones left to talk to were him and Frontal. Banagher felt that he was giving a very imposing stare from a corner.

Right beside him, Frontal did not say anything. He put his arms on the table, locking his fists and using them to support his chin, giving a machine-like stare at Banagher. Banagher could not tell where the stare was looking from under the mask, and instead of being fearful, he wanted to know what kind of people they were, and how they intended to deal with him. ''If I keep waiting for them to talk, I’ll be devoured by the pressure under the mask.'' Banagher looked down at the floor once, wiped the sweat on his hands off his knees, and decided to ask, “Excuse me…”

“Are you the man piloting that red mobile suit?”

The young officer quickly narrowed his eyes, and Frontal’s lips showed a smile.

“What will you do if I say you were? Are you unable to have tea with an opponent you fought before? Young Banagher Links.”

With a voice of ridicule, the observer’s stare cling onto him. Banagher understood that his body was being probed, and reacted as his trembling hand reached for the red tea and put it to his lips. He could not taste the flavor or aroma, and even the heat. “Good response.” Frontal’s voice could be heard clearly.

“However, you never considered the consequences. This is the nature of a pilot.”

Frontal casually got up and got closer to Banagher, whose stare was robbed by the lush blond hair while being distracted by the rose in a vase, the only decoration on the table. Up till now, the red rose had been swallowed by the presence of the Red Comet. In this room that was covered with artificial things, this was a blood-colored flower that asserted life…

“I’m Captain Full Frontal. I’m grateful for what you did for Her Highness Mineva. This invitation might be a little violent, so please forgive me for this.”

Frontal stood in front of Banagher and reached his right hand out, while Banagher hurriedly look back at him. He was about to inadvertently respond to Frontal, only to clench his hand that was about to reach out. ''No, I can’t let him get his way.'' Banagher felt a pulsating pain from his temples as he said cautious, “It might be rude to ask, but may I ask if that mask is really used for hide a wound?”

Frontal showed an unexpected expression on his lips as he put his hand. The young officer over his shoulder gave a more menacing glare, and Banagher looked up at the eyes under the mask.

“If that’s not the case, I hope to see your face.”

“You bastard…!” The young officer muttered as he stepped forward, but Frontal raised his hand to stop him.

“It’s alright, Lieutenant Angelo. Young Banagher is talking about some basic etiquette.”

The young officer called Angelo stopped in his tracks. The stare under the anti-glare filter stared back at Banagher, who took the stare from the person taller than him while exerting strength in his nearly limp knees.

“This might be considered part of a fashion statement. I might say it can be considered a method of propaganda.”

As he said this, the hands covered by the white gloves reached for the mask. ''Ah.'' As Banagher thought this way, Frontal simply removed the mask.

The clear blue eyes first entered his eyes, and then, the old scars at the middle of his eyebrows was etched his stare. The nose bridge that formed a nice line was not repulsive, giving a nice tension that those young people of Caucasian ethnicity would have. The only thing outstanding was that the cheekbones did not reflect his age, but this may be a thought after comparing the image of Char Aznable in photos. Basically, there were no actual signs of flaws, and Banagher swallowed the saliva after forgetting to do so as he faced this handsome face that could not be described simply as proper looking.

“I forgot to take it off because no one would honestly say it out like you. My apologies.”

This time, Frontal put his mask under the armpit and reached his hand out again. This time, there was no reason to refuse as Banagher held on his again. The hand under the glove felt rather hard, causing Banagher to remember the first impression of a puppet he had in his mind, but this may be because of the bad feelings he had when he ended up caught in the other party’s pace. Banagher decided to control himself as he held back from thinking further.

“I heard you met Her Highness Mineva.”

Frontal stepped back towards his table, and spoke, “However, as for how the mobile suit of the Vist Foundation…the “Unicorn” was handed to you, there’s still a lot I don’t understand. That was a machine our army should receive, so why did Cardeas Vist choose you to carry the Laplace Box…”

“I said it before. I don’t know any specifics in this.”

Banagher supported his body that was questioned out of a sudden as he said while seemingly interrupting the other party’s words. Frontal put his mask on the table and turned to Banagher, asking as he sat on the chair, “Is that so?”

“The Vist Foundation managed to maintain its prosperity and riches as they secretly kept the Box. There must be a plan that could not be changed easily for the Vist Foundation to break the negotiation with the Federation government. The initial plan was messed up, but it’s hard to believe that Cardeas would hand the Box over to a random passer-by. It’s natural to view you as someone related to the Foundation in someone, like for example…”

Frontal did not let go of the moment when Banagher inadvertently looked up, narrowed his eyes and continued, “Let’s say, you already were someone related to the Vist family…how about that?”

“Do I have a duty to answer?”

Banagher blurted out these words as his heart suddenly raced. Sharp footsteps could be heard as the young officer called Lieutenant Angelo walked towards Banagher. His hand suddenly reached for Bangher’s chest without warning.

His expression showed no signs of the old poker face as he showed real killing intent. In his old hometown, Banagher often saw people with some random problems showing such an expression out of a sudden as their faces overlapped with this young officer. As he felt this icy feeling from the bottom of his heart, Frontal interjected, “I said to stop it, Angelo.”

The tense-looking brows forced out wrinkles as he finally let go of Banagher grudgingly. His back was turned at Banagher, showing no signs of openings, and his footsteps obviously looked like he trained in this, but not enough to wipe off the first impression Banagher had of him—that he had a very bad background. Frontal waited for Angelo to return behind him, and silently continued, “You don’t have a duty to answer.”

“However, we still want information on the Box. It’s because of the factor that is Her Highness Mineva that we’re asking you in such a gentle manner. I hope you remember this.”

It was an obviously threatening line, and one that could give a chill. Banagher clenched his sweaty hands and answered, “That Mineva…Audrey once told me.”

“She said that the Box must not be handed over to Neo Zeon, or there’ll be another great war.”

“Oh.” Frontal merely continued without wavering, “If we consider what happened at “Industrial 7”, I would have the same feeling as he.” Banagher got up and tried to argue back.

“She’s the Princess of Zeon, right? If Audrey argues against it, why are you…”

“Then, do you believe in the existence of the Laplace Box?”

This was a question Banagher had never thought of. Frontal stared at the speechless Banagher as he gradually continued,

“Do you feel that no one had saw and validated the contents of the Box, whether it had the power to topple the Federation government?”

“Well…I don’t know. But I think there’ll be something like knowledge or information that could cause the world’s balance to collapse.”

“For example?”

“Like for example…how Zeon first let a space colony fall, or how they destroyed an asteroid and sent it to Earth to force it to freeze. It’s nothing after hearing it, but who would have expected such things to happen? The invention of nukes, and the horrifying wars that happened in the old ages…and it’s the same for the development of Minovsky Particles and mobile suits. They’re right beside us, yet no one noticed. A little invention or discovery will allow the world’s balance to change slightly…

Banagher did think of saying this when he was with Audrey before this, but even he was shocked that he could express himself so fluidly like this. “Correct.” Frontal again got up from his seat after concluding.

“This isn’t something that can be understood by memorizing a timeline. From the way you explain things, you should know that Spacenoids were once part of the civilian abandonment plan, right?”

An unexpected line was tossed right back at Banagher, causing him to answer back with only silence. Frontal left the office and walked with a stroll-like pace as he closed in on Banagher.

“In the past, Zeon Deikun once said that only those people who came to space could head for innovation. This meant that humanity got used to its environment and evolved…Newtypes. To the bureaucrats who sending the leftover population to space and remained on Earth, this thinking itself basically toppled their standpoint. That’s why they suppressed Zeonism and Side 3 that was promoting it. This is an example of what you say can cause the world to topple.”

The boots let out a tapping sound on the floor as he got behind Banagher, who was unable to turn behind.

“In the end, Zeon was assassinated, and the Zabi family rose up from it to build the Republic of Zeon. They chose to fight back the Federation government’s suppression with force. The ‘inventions’ of mobile suits and colony drop fighting was the result of the power given to Zeon Republic to match the Federation. Humanity lost half its population, but it could be seen as a deliberate reduction in population Gihren Zabi planned when he used racism to replace Zeonism.

Everyone knew right now that Zeon was killed by the Zabi family’s treachery. The Zeon Republic had such a crime, and after a year’s war, it fell defeated. However, this helped the Federation’s call, causing the Earth Central Administration to expand every day. The people who step into space would not be allowed back on Earth without the government’s permission. Despite each Side’s autonomous rule being recognized, the authority of the leaders were still held by the Central government. Spacenoids had basically no right to take part in politics when they could not elect the Senate Council. During this time, Earth continued to develop again under the name of recovering from the war, and 2 billion residents lived on space produce and food. In the end, the tens of billions of Spacenoids who were forced to migrate in order to let Earth recover naturally were still accomplices in destroying Earth.”

Frontal got behind Banagher as he said while sticking close to his nick. Banagher felt goosebumps by this jolt that basically felt like it was melting his body.

“Our Neo Zeon do have believers in the Zabi family’s customs. Some believed in Zeon Deikun’s ideals, and dreamed of building a real Republic of Zeon. However, their common goal is to change this twisted system. To break the shackle of the Federation, to fulfill self-autonomy for Spacenoids, we should—“

“BUT TERRORIST ATTACKS AREN’T TO GO!”

Banagher stopped the voice that was seeping through his pores as he yelled, “NO MATTER WHAT KIND OF LOGIC IT IS, IT’S NOT RIGHT TO ROB OTHER PEOPLE OF THEIR LIVES ONE-SIDEDLY. NO ONE HAS THAT RIGHT!”

He remembered that none of Micott’s friends were left alive, not even a fingernail as they were turned into dust, and their ugly corpses caused Banagher to puke. And then, there was that man—Cardeas Vist’s cooling blood. He felt these sensations that were still on his palms ''I’m not wrong here,'' Banagher told himself. ''Humans should live like humans and die like humans. I definitely can’t allow for other people to cut other people’s lives down like that.'' As he repeated this in his heart, Frontal’s presence near the neck left, and asked another question to make him doubt, “Then, what about you who fight with a Gundam?”

“If all military forces are full of guilt, you’re the same for using the “Gundam”. Because of you, we lost one of our precious soldiers.”

“Because of you…?”

Banagher was pushed away by an invisible hand as he felt that he tripped and missed his footing. “It was a stray shot, but you’re the one who shot it. This fact will not change.” Frontal continued as he walked back to the table. His back looked rather distorted, and Banagher felt that he was sliding into a bottomless abyss that opened below his feet as he merely stood there blankly. ''What is he saying? When did it happen? I didn’t feel that I hit any enemy suits. I was just squeezing the trigger in a mindless manner.''

''This me here, killed a person…''

“Call Zinnerman in.”

Frontal’s voice sounded rather distant. Banagher sensed that Angelo was picking up the internal phone, but his body and mind could not move. ''I have to think. I have to think of something before I’m swallowed into this bottomless abyss. '' The more he got anxious, the more his thoughts got erratic, and he knew that his fingertips were becoming cold and stiff. This shell called Banagher Links was collapsing, gradually becoming something else—

“You still have lots to learn. I hope you’ll understand more about us. After that, I’ll be grateful if you can become of outstanding assistance to us.”

Frontal said. He picked up the mask on the table, and seemingly at that moment, Zinnerman and Marida entered the room. ''Are both of them gasping because they just saw Frontal’s true appearance?'' A slight electric wave passed through Banagher’s mind as he wanted to turn to the duo behind him, but was unable to do move. During this time, he could tell that Marida’s arm was reaching for his shoulder, forcing him to turn back, and his rooted feet finally managed to take a step.

Banagher was dragged off like this as he was accosted to the archway-shaped doors. Right before he was about to pass it, it stopped, and turned back to look at Frontal at the table. He ignored Marida’s surprised stare as she stopped, and let out a hoarse voice, “Excuse me…”

“Are you Char Aznable?”

Zinnerman, who was standing beside him, frowned as he turned his stare to Frontal. Angelo shot a menacing glare to Banagher for a moment, only to turn his awaiting stare at the owner of the mask. Even Banagher himself was not sure why he asked such a thing. However, his thought of deciding things based on the response had not changed as he stared at Frontal who already had his mask on. Frontal focused his stare on the lone flower on the table,

“The me now stipulates myself as a vessel.”

“Vessel…?”

“This vessel here is used to carry the thoughts of the people who were abandoned into space, and inherit the grand wish of those who inherit Zeonism. If they hope for it, I’ll become Char Aznable. This mask exists for that.”

Frontal lifted his stare that was covered by the anti-glare mask and looked back at Banagher. The earnest expression was looking back at him, and for a short moment, he lost his voice. However, a mask was a mask, not a true face. ''Perhaps I might not have seen the true appearance of this man?'' Banagher recalled the beautiful blue eyes, and felt that he was following an illusion as he lost all strength to talk and walked out of the room.

Banagher glanced behind before the doors closed. The lips under the mask seemed to be smiling at the lone flower. The bright rose and Angelo’s heinous face showed a refreshing feeling beside the mask.

===Part 6===

The door was closed, and he inadvertently sighed. Angelo Sauper checked himself for feeling this unknown pressure, felt a little enraged, and asked Frontal beside him, “Is this alright?”

“Zinnerman’s experienced in this. Leave it to him.”

Frontal answered with an emotionless expression. Despite not talking too much, their thoughts could connect. Angelo felt relieved by how he could feel this like usual, and recalled that it was not the same when the boy was around, and felt incensed by this. ''The Captain actually left me out of focus when Banagher Links was around…''

“I’m more concerned about the Federation’s movements compared to this. According to how the situation goes, we may have to abandon this palce.”

Angelo did not know if his feelings reached Frontal who stated some pragmatic things. He said, “He…as in “Palau, Sir?” he asked.

“That mobile suit has something to do with the Box alright. Once the mobile suit got taken away, the Federation will be desperate. It’s correct to view that the political safety “Palau” offers has disappeared.”

“You mean the Federation will take action here?”

“A very high possibility. They’re probably try attacking here in a full-scale battle.”

''From the number of ships moving in and out of “Palau”, there’s a high chance that the Federation casted us away. A weak group must remain tense in order to maintain a large and fat organization. The thrill of them attacking with a weak attitude is enough. It’s about to begin. The time to shed the sheepskin of Federation ‘management’ has come. The time for the Neo Zeon army to revive has arrived.'' Angelo secretly held back the rising sensation in him as he stared at this man who should be the king of the New World. Frontal took the rose and put it near his lips, lowering his head as he continued, “How’s the investigations of the “Unicorn” goin?”

“We’re using the information Anaheim provided. We’re analyzing the OS at this moment.”

“NT-D…they call it the Newtype-Drive, is it? It’s fishy.”

Angelo though it was the smell of the rose at that moment as he let out a voice “Eh?” At this moment, Frontal got up, and said,

“Anaheim said that it was a mobile suit designed based from the data of the “Sinanju”, but I don’t think that’s it. I could feel a form of madness from that “Gundam”. Tell them to hurry up with their analysis. Maybe Cardeas Vist handed the key of the Box to an unbelievable monster.”

Frontal slowly handed over the rose in his hands over to Angelo, and did not look at him as he left. The reliable shoulders were showing fatigue. “Yes!” Angelo straightened his back as he watched Frontal leave from the office. The crimson red bed left the archway doors, and once his back disappeared from the closing doors, Angelo finally looked back at the rose he received.

In this quarry satellite, it was hard to obtain even a stalk of rose. This was ordered from the florist the superintendent used, and sent from neighboring colonies to be grown here. It was Angelo’s job to put the rose on Frontal’s table everyday. ''Did The Captain notice that I’m the one who chose the vase?'' Angelo suddenly thought as he turned his stare to the vase that was standing there in a lonely manner, and recalled the ‘vessel’ Frontal said before.

“He’s so tired, and yet wants to bear the fate of the world…”

Angelo looked back at the rose in his hands. The deep red petals that marveled the shortness of life exerted its will in a suffocating manner. ''The Captain’s color… the color of flames that burned his body. This is the color of that man who saw the abyss of this space, and is coming back to this world with destiny on his back.'' Angelo suddenly could not control his impulses as he crushed the stem of the rose with all he got.

“He actually let that kind of boy see his true appearance…!”

The blood that dripped from his fist flowed down the stem, staining the floor.

===Part 7===

The toughness of the hand that held his back was trained through guns. Daguza Mackle felt relieved by this usual strength.

“it’s been a while, Daguza Squad’s commander. You’re looking rather bad there, aren’t you?”

The Arabian ethnicity was shown on Commander Nasri Razal’s black skin as he showed an earnest smile. He was 43 years old, short, but had a firm body that looked rather lively, and he was definitely competent in leading the strong warriors of ECOAS. Daguza covered his left arm that had a cast on it as he answered, “Don’t mention it.”

“Unlike you, I’m working hard here.”

“That’s called reaping what you sow. You’re too serious. Isn’t it the same as the mock battle before? What’s with you? Common sense says that you have to go easy if there’s no General here to obvious.”

“I feel that we did go easy.”

“You sure can say that. Our squad was messed around by yours. I’ll pay this debt soon.”

Speaking till here, Nasri kept his smile and tapped his boots, giving a solid salute. “ECOAS 729 reporting with Nasri Razal and 24 members. We shall now join forces with ECOAS 920 as of this moment.” Daguza too raised his hand to salute back at Nasri’s energetic voice. At this moment, Nasri’s forces were moving in machinery as a “Loto” suspended by cables was moving up to the mobile suit deck in tank form. Daguza put his hand down and looked at the machinery being moved in together with Nasri who ended his salute.

[[Image:KSGU4 054.png|thumb]]

The vehicle with the squad serial number 729 etched on it was a long-ranged support type with two barrels of cannons protruding out. Daguza was relieved to see the backup equipment they requested, and a few ECOAS members were surrounding the vehicle to check on it. The “Loto” being moved in was equipped with 4 rapid-fire Gatling cannons, and including the ammunition, all sorts of supplies were being loaded on the deck. Daguza confirmed these as he heaved a sigh of relief while Nasri did not realize it. ''Despite these formalities, such equipment won’t be enough. But at least we have a minimum amount of preparation. Our side is finally released from being on standby in this shoal space region, and now we can think of the next step—''

It had been 72 hours since they fought Neo Zeon twice. This thought was prevalent amongst the crew who were on the Nahel Argama as well. They looked up at the equipment that was passing through the two suspensions hanging near the ceiling towards the access gateway, looking like they missed their friends as they moved around the mobile suit deck. The ECOAS reinforcements that were following Nasri stood right behind. There were 4 carriers and all sorts of spare parts used to repair the severely damaged ship. The supply ship that was connected to this ship was able to send these goods over, and the empty mobile suit deck became a lot livelier. The portside catapult that was blown off could not be saved, but the ship’s repair was not bad enough to cause much of a problem, so they should be able to get away from their current drifting state.

However, they would have to see if the Senate Council gave any unreasonable commands or not before everyone could relax. It was rather efficient of them to be able to prepare such a resupply in such a short time, including their beloved ECOAS, but even the Senate Council’s orders would not be enough for this mobilization. Leaving aside the ECOAS “Loto”, they had only 5 working mobile suits in this ship. The ship’s repairs were done on those parts that would be used in battle. “I saw it from the outside. You were wrecked.” Nasri said, and it did not seem like sarcasm to Daguza.

“The mobile suit deck is basically empty…common sense wise, I feel that we should dock first, but the higher-ups want us to continue fighting in this situation?”

“Do you feel uneasy?”

“Nope. We’re just hear for a ride and wreck some stuff. It has nothing to do with our operation.”

The fearless expression was hidden in Nasri’s black eyes as his beard-covered lips were curled up, “Then, where do you want us to start work?”

Daguza’s Squad 920, Nasri’s 729. The organization’s history was not little in any sense, but it was the first time in history that two squads of ECOAS would be working together. Daguza saw Nasri shake things off with a relaxed expression, and was about to talk about the operation strategy they never mentioned before, only to hear an excited voice, “AWESOME! IT’S THE “HYAKU SHIKI!” Daguza and Nasri both looked over.

The young man was wearing a navy-blue colored jumper and jeans as he kicked the container and glided through the docking gate. It was one of the civilians being held on board, and as Daguza recalled that his name was probably Takuya Irei, a middle-aged NCO growled “OI! DON’T JUST RUN IN HERE LIKE THIS!” as he followed in, causing Daguza to look over at where both of them were heading to. An unfamiliar mobile suit was moved inside at the large docking gate that was 20m long.

It was a streamlined human-shaped mobile suit that was colored grey. The unit was made in the streamlined Federation unit style, but it did not look as rigid as the “Jegan” or the “ReZELs”. The complicate and intricate design on the surface had a slenderness that was more like a human body. The machine had two binders that were upright, and it resembled an Archangel the way the wings were closed. What was more characteristic however was the head, as what looked like a visor on the eyes was installed on the face. It looked to be a dual-eye sensor, and made this mobile suit’s ‘face’ resemble a “Gundam”.

“That is?”

“I hear that it’s one of the prototype transformable units. They probably dragged it out from the bottom of the warehouse to make up numbers. I think it’s called “Delta Plus” or something…”

Nasri answered as he did not look at the mobile suit, but at Takuya who did not look like a soldier. “What’s with that?” He showed a stern expression as he answered, and Daguza let out a three-day worth of sigh.

“We got involved in a lot of things…”

''Where should we begin?'' As Daguza was thinking about this, Daguza had already climbed up to the top of the “Delta Plus”, inspecting the visor that reached the ceiling and the cockpit. The NCO grabbed onto his leg, but was unable to look away from the shiny new machine. “What the heck? Who put this mobile suit with low interchangeability into this ship?” The NCO grumbled, “This is a dream machine. It’s one of the Hyaku-type machines in the Z testing projects. If the transformation is complete, it can be really somewhat powerful.” Takuya lectured, and the NCO frowned as he said, “Isn’t that Z project 10 years ago or something…” “TAKUYA!” A sharp voice rang throughout the deck.

“What are you doing there? We’re moving out once the movement is complete. Hurry up and get ready.”

The NCO too was shocked by this voice that was let out by Micott Bartsch. She was wearing light yellow parka and hot pants that would definitely not be seen on a military ship. Her nice long legs were exposed as she got over the container beside her and let her feet land on the deck, not waiting for Takuya, “Even if you tell me that, I have nothing to prepare!” as he reluctantly left the machine. As they passed by each other, Micott suddenly looked at Daguza near here.

She gasped in shock, and looked away. The stiff face showed a gloomy expression, just like how it was when she ‘leaked the information’. This act triggered quite the chemical reaction, causing Micott’s friend to be on the brink of danger. ''I don’t know how she’s handling this reality.'' Daguza did not think too much into these as another voice interrupted, “Are you two ready?” He looked over at the source of this voice, and saw the petite figure of Ensign Mihiro Oiwakken, who was assigned to take care of the civilians, about to land on the deck.

As Mihiro looked over at Micott, she did not look at Daguza’s and company, trying her best to look away from the ECOAS members in this precarious situation. She grabbed the rooted Micott on the shoulder and said, “Come on. You don’t have to stay here any longer.” as she left the scene. Daguza sighed as he saw them leave without turning back, and watched Takuya, who once glanced at him, leave. ''That’s fine. We’re the ones guilty here—we, ECOAS, used the ‘leaked information’ to use a hostage and carried out a despicable battle. Just hate me as long as you don’t blame youself…''

“Looks like you really got involved in a lot of things.”

Nasri watched the trio leave as he said with an expression of different meaning. On hearing this voice Daguza shrugged at this man who understood ECOAS’ standpoint very well.

===Part 8===

(To be honest, even I was shocked when your father contacted us. Nobody would specially check on a carrier unit pilot’s background after all.)

Ted Cherenkov’s said unabashedly from the other side of the communicator monitor. His 50-year-old face that was tanned by playing golf looked to be a standard sample for those affiliated to the Senate Council. There were all sorts of medals on his secondary uniform. ''Some great person you are. It’s right for you to be lazy to check after all.'' Riddhe suppressed the voice within his heart as he answered with a cold voice, “Yes…”

(I did hear news that you were deployed to Londo Bell. But I didn’t expect that you’ll be assigned to the Nahel Argama. Your reassignment order will be sent over, so just get away from there. A prince of a senator shouldn’t be involved in a secret mission.)

The Admiral said casually as if he wanted someone to return home due to bad weather. Riddhe however was not shocked by this line that was without consideration about the current situation. He already expected it when he was called to this second communication room after the supply ship “Alaska” was docked with it. This was the reply he got when he sent the mail on behest of the captain before the battle against the Red Comet. His father exerted pressure to save the foolish and reckless prodigal son—not considering about his son’s feelings as he wanted to draw a clear line from this ‘family’. Riddhe had his own life, but his father did not care that his son had some things he would not give up when it came to Life.

''It’s always like this. Dad always has a wide vision, always asking me to see the big picture, and yet won’t understand the world his own son sees. The one correct is always dad, and he’ll use power to override everything despite it being a mistake.'' Admiral Ted’s lips resembled that of Riddhe’s own father, causing him to give a stare at the monitor without backing off. ''I have to fulfill a duty and responsibility as someone involved—'' He recalled the words the girl said half a day ago as he spoke “Thank you for your kind intentions, but I’m still a pilot of the Nahel Argama.”

“This has nothing to do with whose son I am. Right now, the squad’s worn out due to continuous battles. As a Federation soldier, if I leave the ship like this…”

(We’ve sent reinforcements. Just swap over with them.)

Admiral Ted’s answer was completely listless as he completely lacked attention to this conversation…or rather, this admiral might not have thought of him as a person. He was just looking at the shadow behind his back—the authority of Senator Ronan Marcenas. Riddhe felt the emptiness of talking to a wall as he yelled, “WHY ONLY ME…!” but Admiral Ted remained unmoved as he said formally, (It’s not just you.)

(We’ll be taking back the civilians from “Industrial 7”, and the prisoner from Neo Zeon, of course.)

“Are you talking about… Mineva Zabi?”

(I’m talking about the prisoner. Don’t say that taboo name so easily.)

For once, Admiral Ted showed nervousness in his eyes as he said with a stiff voice. Mineva Zabi herself was not to be disclosed, and her existence was deemed ‘political’. The girl’s voice rang in Riddhe’s mind again, rendering him speechless. Admiral Ted coughed to create a short pause, and continued, (Anyway, these people will be sent to the Moon. You’ll follow them too.)

(There’re people from the Intelligence Department on the “Alaska”, so leave the prisoner to them. Don’t ask any further.)

“Then what about the civilians? They…”

(Will be treated as those who violated confidentiality and dealt as appropriate. You have no need to be involved with them)

Violated confidentiality. This unfamiliar term caused Riddhe’s heart to cool down. The mobile suit maniac Takuya and that mysteriously bewitching girl Micott could not be isolated from ‘politics’ any longer. ''What will happen to them once they’re moved to the Moon?'' Riddhe understood that the Nahel Argama’s directions and everything else was going just as Mineva descrived. He clenched his fists on his knees. Ted lowered his stare slightly and said somewhat awkwardly, (It’s because of your father that I’m talking to you like this.)

(You’re still young. Forget about everything you saw or heard there. From now on, this is the world of politics.)

Even if you’re the son of a political maestro, this thing isn’t at a level where a pilot can resist—the Admiral’s expression showed this. ''That’s right.'' Riddhe muttered. He knew, physiologically, that this mentality should not exist in his body that was no longer in the teens. ''As someone who has to fulfill his duty and responsibility—I have to do something I can and what I must do.'' He had determination that was about to take shape, and lifted his head as he said, “Please just tell me one thing.”

“Where will the Nahel Argama go after this?”

Hm. Ted sighed as he raised his loose chin.

===Part 9===

““Palau”, the civilian resource satellite that belonged to Side 6. The Intelligence Branch concluded that the RX-0 was transported here.”

Alberto smirked as he handed the monitor sheets to them, looking at their expressions. Otto Mitas gave a meaningful look as he pulled up the uniform cap that was worn below his stare, and took up one of the monitor sheets on the table.

The B4 sized monitor sheet that felt like film showed the exterior image of “Palau”. It was a middle-sized quarry satellite located on L1, and could be described as floating in the outer regions of the shoal space region. Another monitor sheet showed the colony association’s internal plans, while another one showed the actual internal construct from the observations—the locations of the military port, the number of ships docked there, the types, and even where the command post was—all described in 3D CG details. No matter what anyone thought, this was not data that could be obtained within a mere two days.

“The conclusion sure came fast…”

Otto said these sarcastic words as he put the monitor sheet that had changed back to its original size back on the table. ''You’re saying that this is the data obtained from optical observation tracking of the enemy ships? What a joke. The Senate Council definitely knew of this base the “Sleeves” have, for years even. The government already knew that Neo Zeon was recuperating in “Palau” ever since “Char’s Counterattack” ended 3 years ago. It’s already there, but politically, it’s just treated as a Zeon remnant base that they couldn’t see—and the reason why they can see it is because of a more powerful political force called the Laplace Box taking effect.''

“This is the results obtained from the military and the Intelligence Branch. This shows that they do feel this operation rather seriously.”

Alberto said while ignoring these snide remarks. ''I really can’t tell whether this man understands that his actions already caused the RX-0 to be lost.'' Otto was not the only one who thought this way as all the main cadres in the officers’ room were surrounding the long table as they thought this way, but the fat face of this commanding subordinate in a suit showed no signs of wavering. Everyone was giving looks of suspicion and hatred at Alberto, and the “impossible” line came from the chief operator, sparking a debate.

“You want to use the Nahel Argama, one ship, to take down a base? This requires a fleet to do so.”

“The ones leading the attack is ECOAS. As everyone knows, the reinforcements for this operation have arrived. It’s unprecedented for the ECOAS, who can take many on their own, to send 2 squads to fight together…”

“Where are the other ships? The Nahel Argama isn’t going to endure another battle like this.”

“Do we have a chance of winning? If we want to get back the RX-0, we can’t just suppress from the outside. It’s imperative that we do some mass destruction to prevent the enemy from attacking us.”

“We can only land and attack once the ship’s forces surround and fire. We only have 5 mobile suits, including the reinforcements. We need to go all out just to defend a ship, let alone support ECOAS.”

The well-experienced navigation officer finished, and everyone stared at the Captain who was sitting at a higher level. He emphasized his tone, “Are you convinced, Captain?” causing Otto, who had his arms folded, to jerk.

“Things have already passed the extents the counter terrorist laws have. If we really want to attack the base, we need to gather everyone from Londo Bell. I think the Senate Council is just asking us to die in battle.”

“We haven’t even mourned for those died in battle…”

The eyes that were bloodshot with rage and fatigue were looking back at him with the uniform cap. Otto felt that it was reasonable for everyone’s attitude to be like this as he looked down and would not face any other stare. The Nahel Argama would be fighting alone in this operation to reclaim the RX-0. Otto had never heard of such an unreasonable order in his entire space military career. It was bad enough that they lacked fighting resources, and at this point, many of the ships they asked for were being used for training–just like how the Nahel Argama was a few days ago. The reason why the ships were not gathered was because the Senate Council was not willing to bring matters to the surface, and such political considerations had no relations to the worn out crew.

“Because of this, we invested a large sum of money training two squads of special forces.”

Alberto continued while maintaining his usual iron-wall like thick-skinned face, “We’ve already sent in as much manpower under this secret mission. Please don’t forget that this is the result of the backhand dealings our Anaheim Electronics here has done.”

“NO ONE’S ASKING YOU ANYTHING!?”

“IT’S BECAUSE OF YOU THAT THE RX-0 GOT TAKEN!”

The thoroughly incensed cadres all stared over at Alberto, and the subordinates behind him froze up. Alberto hesitated as he tried to speak up, “It’s because of me that this ship wasn’t ship…” But Otto immediately got off his seat to interrupt him.

Everyone, who had been looking at each other, turned their stare on Otto, causing the atmosphere in the room to tense up. Otto took the shocked and expectant stares, and lowered his cap below his sights and said “I’ll be back immediately.” before leaving.

He walked out of the officers’ room while bearing the awkward atmosphere that did not allow for any depressed emotions. “Is he going to complain to HQ?” “He’s going to the toilet, isn’t he?” The cadres chattered, yet they sounded so shrill to Otto.

===Part 10===

Otto moved to the corridor of the gravity block, and took the elevator. There was still a while before the swap of duties happened, so not a lot of people who would use the elevator. He checked the time, closed the elevator doors, did not touch the operator panels, and merely took a deep breath through his nose and roared,

“DAMN IT!”

This roar that rose up from his abdomen rocked the inner walls of the elevator. The voice was so loud that anyone would feel that it could pass through the shaft leading to the bridge and seep out of the Nahel Argama, which was moving in the middle of space. Otto could not contain the smoldering bitterness within him, and could not feel relieved, so he continued to kick the wall with all he had and punch it. The blunt impact sounds rocked the elevator several times, stopping at the cramped box that had no openings.

''What reinforcements? What secret operation? Those guys from the Senate Council never believed that this operation will succeed. They’re just pretending to do something to help create an excuse for their failures. The “Nahel Argama” and ECOAS are just being used to create alibis for them. We’re being used by the government as tools to show that they ‘did their best here.''

It was too idealistic to say that everyone was being sent to their deaths here. The Box, and Mineva Zabi; this ship kept getting involved in troublesome situations, such that they might as well just sink it. If the crew survive…the captain would just be reassigned somewhere else, and the crew will be broken up through other means, scattered all over the place and live the rest of their lives while being observed. Even if they complain that they were being punished unjustly, nobody would listen to them. If Neo Zeon had the Box and attacks them furiously, things would change. But to the big shots, they would be very satisfied with an outcome that meets their expectations, and it was unlikely that they would think that far ahead. They would try to prevent an all-out conflict and maintain an economic standard that was based on military reinstatement. Londo Bell would head the other way while hunting down the remnants of Zeon, those on the other side would use a political adjustment ‘crisis’ to keep acting—

They could no longer hope for the assistance of Senator Marcenas. If they disobeyed and escaped, things would not change. Otto wanted to just break up from the Senate Council itself and surrender to Neo Zeon, but he could not allow himself to do this as he was a captain who had many subordinates die under him. He continued to search his mind that was being cornered, and let his emotions explode in the elevator. At this moment, the elevator door opened, causing Otto to miss as his body tumbled outself.

The two figures stood outside the elevator, showing shocked expressions. Otto immediately grabbed onto the door and barely managed to avoid tumbling to the floor, but his heart felt despair again after seeing their faces. He hurriedly picked himself up, kept still, quickly tidied himself up, and coughed first to clear things up.

First Officer Liam and Commander Daguza blinked for just a moment as they stepped forward in unison, probably pretending not to see the captain’s shameful act in order to save his dignity. ''To be seen by these two of all people.'' Otto cringed back as he felt his fingertips turn red. He tried to return back to the officers’ room, but Liam called out ‘captain’, causing him to stop.

“I heard of the order from the Senate Council. What do you intend to do?”

Liam raised her thick eyelids as she stared at Otto, but it was a rare sight for Daguza to stand by both of them in common agreement, giving a usual machine-like poker face. Otto wondered what else they would think of as he answered with a low voice, “What else can we do?”

“An order’s an order. We can only follow it. This has something to do with the Box that decides the Fate of the world after all.”

Otto really wanted to leave the scene this time as he fully comprehended the irony he would be enacting, “I have no disagreements with this.” but Daguza’s voice caught up with Otto, causing him to stop.

“But we’ll view this operation as a hostage rescue.”

These unexpected words caused Otto to show an unexpected expression to Daguza behind him, “Hostage rescue…?” Otto repeated, and remembered the face of the boy who rode the “Gundam” and rushed out of the ship. Banagher Links shook of the pressure the adults bore on him and only cared about fighting it head on. Daguza showed an affirmative expression to Liam, and took one step closer to Otto.

“We still owe him one. We’ll do what we can do. I remember this ship has a hyper-mega particle cannon, right?”

Liam stood beside the sincere looking Daguza, and nodded with a determined expression that was never seen before. Otto turned towards them completely, indicating that he was willing to listen to them.

===Part 11===

The Universal Century was about to reach the 100-year mark at this moment, but humanity still did not find a way to control gravity. The generation of centrifuge force within the inner walls of the large rotating domess was the maximum they could go with the current limits of technology. In this sense, humanity were creatures who had not progressed at all since the old century.

It was necessary to insert a rotating domes inside the satellite if they wanted to build a living environment in the mining satellite, and “Palau” was no exception to this. The inside of the asteroid had a domes 1.6km in diameter and 3km long buried inside, and the living space for civilians was built inside. Amongst the 4 connecting stone blocks, the largest of them was the triangular shaped asteroid Calyx, which had two living areas inside. No matter which world they were at, there was a difference in class. If there was an Uppertown with a Government House as center, the other living block would naturally be the Downtown where the miners were, and people were divided in these two areas based on their statuses. On a side note, the 3 blocks connected to the “Calyx” were called “Corolla”, each designated as A, B, C. It could be said that the 3 blocks that were connected were shaped like a flower.

There was no difference in the construct between the Uppertown and the Downtown, but “Palau” had its own unique characteristic. In other words, there was a cutter drill installed at the tip of the dome that could create a centrifuge force and dig into the asteroid’s bedrock. It would be apt to describe it as a large shield machine.

The residents of “Palau” built their homes in this very large cutter machine and built towns, forming their social quarters. When the men head out to excavate at the main shaft, the women would stay behind to choose the rocks that were dug or make homemade goods to pass the day. This would be said to be type of life where they do their jobs to the extreme—no, it should be more accurate to say that they were recreating the tough life of being a pioneer. When the Space Migration plan was started, the ones who were sent to work on this asteroid were mostly criminals, refugees or political criminals who opposed the government. They were not allowed to return back to Earth, and could only raise their children under such harsh conditions and end their careers while covered in dust…

“Well, there seemed to be some pulmonary disease or social caste discrimination before, stuff that were really suited for proletariat education. But that’s during our grandfathers’ time. Right now, they’re schools, hospitals around, and even the latest information can be obtained. We’re free to head to other colonies too. Some are still poor but the rest aren’t any different from the other places either.”

Gilboa said carefully, but he did not forget to quip in at the end, “But discrimination itself hasn’t disappeared.” At this point, the shield machine was not working, and it was said that most of the men were working outside to support the expenses of their families. Banagher was brought to this Downtown residential block after he met Frontal, and simply stepped into this town called “Palau” that gave a certain carefree vibe. The place was 1.6km in diameter, and the length was half of an ordinary colony. The width was similar to the “Snail”, but this place was just like “Industrial 7” in that it was built such that the artificial sun would spin and let out sun rays, so it did not feel as packed as a miniature garden. The sky had brown clouds floating on it, and green pastures could be seen all over the winner wall. However, what felt mysterious was that one part of the airtight wall was covered with a rocky layer.

In any ordinary colony, the airtight walls located on both sides of the dome would generate dirt, creating a scene that they would call a ‘hill’, but this scene was different from them. The front end of this living block was the cutter drill that was inserted into the asteroid. This machine had not been used for many years, and became one with the ground. The 1.6km long cutter managed to drill into the rocky surface, and that scene was different from an ordinary colony. The shield machine created a sense of pressure that could not be removed, and the crudely made unit houses in the town helped to sight, creating the impression that the entire town was a worker dormitory.

The poor citizens managed to make ends meet by relying on the Neo Zeon army. Banagher recalled the overly glamorous constructs in the command post, and created the impression of dejected looking people in his heart. However, this was overturned the moment he reached his destination.

“Ah, it’s daddy!” “Daddy’s back!” Such excited voices could be heard once he opened the door, and Gilboa opened his arms wide as he greeted them “Oi, kiddos!” With the boy who was about 10 years old leading the pack, there were 4…no, 5 children, wearing tattered clothes that looked like they were going to be torn apart. These children came running out from the shadows of the old furniture, looking like a pack of mice that were kept and bred. As Banagher gave a puzzled look, another voice rang, “Big Sis Marida’s here too!”, and a 6th girl came running out from under the table.

The children that were gathered around Gilboa then leapt towards Marida behind him, “Oi oi oi, you prefer her to daddy here? How depressing!” The children ignored Gilboa who remarked this wryly as they hugged Marida’s legs and started climbing up her. Marida herself kept the usual non-smiling expression on her face as she pulled aside a child clinging onto her and grabbed another on the ankle, making them upside down. Banagher felt that this was too violent, but to the children, this looked rather fun as a black little girl squealed “I want it too!” “Me too!” another child’s voice could be heard.

''What exactly is going on here?'' The rising dust blurred Banagher’s vision, but he continued to stare inquisitively into this neat and tidy room. A lady then spoke up, “You’re back. Are you and Marida hurt?” causing him to blink. A black woman who looked to be in her late thirties showed her face from a rusted pillar. Gilboa raised his hand, causing the peaceful looking housewife to smile brightly as she stepped on the creaking floor and moved towards him. “Captain too.” That woman said as she looked over, and Banagher too looked back. Zinnerman was standing outside the door, looking rather shy as he raised his head.

Marida did not look at Banagher any further as she silently carried the children upside down. Banagher was more affected by how she showed a gentle expression for the first time rather than the abnormal arm strength. Zinnerman then turned around and said, “I’ll leave it to you then.” before leaving from the corridor. “Where’s this kid from?” the woman asked as she looked at Banagher, who heard Gilboa’s answer, “We have to take care of this kid for the time being because of some reasons.” Banagher inadvertently stepped on the floor and left the scene, and though his feet were slowed by the dust blown onto the ground, “Captain…Mr Zinnerman!” he called out to the back silhouette that was gradually moving away.

Zinnerman, who was dressed in a black military leather coat, stood in the middle of the roaring winds as he stopped. The blond man called Flaste too stopped, giving a somewhat menacing look at Banagher, but Banagher did not have the mind to care about him. He stood on the street that was surrounded by unit houses like Gilboa’s house on both sides, and faced Zinnerman’s black eyes.

“What’s going on? Bringing me to such a place…”

“We can’t find any other suitable places. As you see, they're kids in there, but there’s still enough space to let you live there…”

“That’s not what I’m saying…! Why am I not in a cell or something?”

“Do you feel that’s better?”

And just like the first time they met, he gave a stare of killing intent to Banagher, “This is just a makeshift, right?” Banagher showed his stumped expression to them and said.

“Are you saying that poverty and discrimination will breed terrorists? Even if you let me see this and make me one of your allies…”

A sharp and hot pain struck Banagher’s face, causing his sights to spin. ''I got punched.'' Banagher understood this as his body flew to the floor, and his face soon landed on the dusty ground.

“Don’t be mistaken.”

Zinnerman used his other hand to cup the fist that he rewarded Banagher with as he said with a deep voice. Banagher caught sight of that face in his blurred sights.

“Don’t think you’ll be forgiven for anything just because you’re a kid. Adults are more violent then what you know.”

These words struck Banagher’s sub-consciousness right on the mark as his numb and hurting face was burning with shame. He used his fingertips to wipe away with the blood on his lips, and wordlessly stared at the back of Zinnerman’s face.

“You just think you know, but you don’t know anything at all. Stay here and learn.”

Zinnerman left these words behind as he walked off again. He was not concerned about Flaste, who glanced back at Banagher once, and put his hands into his large coat pockets and left gradually. Banagher spat out the sand that was mixed with blood in his mouth, and finally managed to straighten his swaying knees. ''He tells me to learn here, but what?'' He mused in his heart and used his hand to touch the heat on his face. At this moment, a voice came from behind, “I was told this before.”

Marida suddenly appeared, dressed in the crimson red uniform as she stood behind Banagher. Her eyes looked past him, staring at Zinnerman who was about to disappear at the alleys. Banagher saw Marida’s somewhat depressed looking eyes and wondered, ''What kind of relationship to they have…'' Banagher thought of the guess he had before, only to cringe as he heard the voices “Bye bye!” “See you!”. 3 children came running out from Gilboa’s house and ran towards the front yard that was so small in space that even an electric car could not stop there.

Banagher looked back at them, and found that the trio’s skin colors were different. He realized that they seemed to be children who came from nearby to play, and a girl with her hair tied said, “Will you be here tomorrow, Big Sis Marida?” Banagher looked over at her, who answered, ”Yeah, I’ll be here.” She answered, and the girl’s face immediately showed absolutely delight as she looked at the children around her with a shy expression. “Then, see you tomorrow.” “Bye bye.” The children left their energetic voices behind as they ran through the alleys like a gust of wind.

Marida gently raised her hand as she watched them leave, and once the children vanished, she looked at Banagher with a cold expression. “Go in. The nights in “Palau” end early.” She quickly finished, and left Banagher aside as she went straight back to Gilboa’s house. He stared at her long hair that swayed with the wind, looked back at the artificial sun that was definitely turning dark, and finally looked at the street that was about to be buried in sand. Banagher felt like he could immediately escape from here…but he did not know how to head to the port, and did not feel that he could snatch the “Unicorn” back easily. Marida and everyone else could walk about in their uniforms, and this showed that this was a land where all the residents here followed Neo Zeon. No matter where he ran, things would not change, and he would be brought back here in the end.

''So, I’m still being restrained?'' Banagher sighed slightly as he looked up at the ‘hill’ from past several low-rise houses. The long and large cutter of the shield machine extended right into the tip, making the ‘hill’ look like it was a material supporting the airtight wall from the inside. The ‘hill’ had gust of dusts blowing all over it, different from the colonies Banagher had been seeing, let alone a tree. However, he could only look up and this rocky layer that was completely bare. There was a brown dust-colored mist floating near the axis that could not interfere with the center of axis, giving a mysterious presence that could not be approached.

''There’s no universe over there, just a thick layer of compressed rock gathered after millions of years.'' Banagher thought as he felt that the chances of him escaping was getting slimmer and slimmer, and stopped looking at the ‘hill’. Out of options, he intended to head back to Gilboa’s house, only to notice a stare coming from the alley. It was the girl with tied hair who greeted Marida before, staring at Banagher with wide black eyes.

His eyes met hers, and she bared her teeth that had missing incisors as she made a face before running off. '' The citizens here are all soldiers…is it?'' Banagher rubbed his face that was punched and walked back to the corridor.

===Part 12===

Despite reducing 3 people from 6, there was still 3 of them. The 3 children, the Gilboa couple, Banagher and Marida made it so packed that they had to watch out from each other when they move in such a narrow place. There might not be a need to think about this too much when the children were running around, but they had to be carefully when they pull their chairs or do something else.

Some, like Gilboa, had their rooms in “Palau”, but most of the crew, including Flaste, stayed in the dormitory at the port, and it was said that Zinnerman would not leave the “Garencieres” even when docked. It seemed that Marida lived at Gilboa’s house, and there was a bed for her at the children’s room on the second floor. However, according to the mother, Marida would not spent more than 5 days living there during a month.

“I was requested by the Captain there. That man’s in his fifties, and the rest are mostly singles, so he can’t just leave a girl like Marida to them. She’s been living here for almost 2 years. I do feel that she can live on her own, but the kids keep sticking to her. It doesn’t matter if I do so in the first place.”

Gilboa’s wife said this as she prepared dinner without anyone asking her. ''What does it mean when she says that Marida can’t be alone? Is Marida a prisoner here too? Stay here and learn. I was told this before—''the words Banagher heard before suddenly bore weight, causing Banagher to glance secretly and Marida who was accompanying the children, but he did not want to ask her. ''There’s no need to know. She’s different from me.'' He told his mind that may relax at any time, and silently went through a frustrating moment.

It was finally time for dinner, and the dining table, which took up most of the living space, was laid out with 7 persons’ share. It consisted of sautéed rabbit, soup, bread, and a potato salad that was piled up like a hill. The rabbits were reared in “Palau”, and they seemed to be the main source of protein for the residents. Ignoring the contents of the dishes alone, the sight of the dinner table in front of Banagher could be said to be majestic. He, who grew up with only his mother, did not know anything about his relatives, and never experienced seeing 7 people’s faces at the dining table. Banagher did go to a buffet restaurant when he was studying at AEIC, but never once had he experienced a mood where everyone sat close to each other and ate

The sense that was seemingly unfamiliar and never used before was activated. Banagher’s appetite got the better of all other unspeakable feelings within him as he reached for the bread once Gilboa got to the table. At this moment, everyone put their elbows on the table, cupped their hands, and a moment of silence descended upon the dining room.

“Lord, thank you for the meal today.”

Gilboa said silently, and his wife and children said “Amen”. As Banagher followed them by cupping his hands, the children had already started tucking in. Marida too split her hands casually and took her fork and spoon. Banagher did see this in a move before, but he never expected a family to really pray before handing a meal. He blinked, and reached for the bread again. The extremely hard feeling made him wonder uneasily whether he could eat it.

A gust blew by the streets, causing the windows to rattle, and the pendant light that was weak swayed. If no one adjusted the artificial flow stronger, the sand would probably accumulate on each other. Each dish had a heavy taste, maybe because it was due to their lifestyle that required more manual labor. Banagher silently put the food into his mouth, and suddenly looked at the window that continued to ring.

''How many of these families are hearing such winds while gathered around the dinner table quickly—and amongst them, there will be people who will be mourning for those who will never come back and those who will never hear anything.'' Banagher’s mind, which was relaxed because of the food, had these thoughts, and he felt his hand holding the spoon was giving off sweating. He wiped of the sweat that started appearing on his forehead profusely and tried to gather his concentration on the food. “Are you from the Federation, Big Brother?” One of the children asked as Banagher put the spoonful of soup into his mouth, unable to taste anything at that moment.

The one who spoke was the oldest boy amongst the trio. He continued to give an inquisitive look to Banagher despite Gilboa glaring at him, telling him to eat quietly. As his younger brother and sister lifted their faces to give quizzing looks at him, Banagher glanced at Marida, who continued to move her hands as she had no intent of stopping her meal. He suddenly felt enraged by some unknown thing inside him, pour the tasteless soup into his mouth, “Yeah, that’s right.” and said in a straightforward manner.

“I was dragged over by the people here forcefully.”

Banagher sensed that Gilboa stopped what he was doing, and that his wife was looking over at Banagher, but he had no intent of caring, “Are you a prisoner?” The boy asked, and Banagher answered with a depressed voice, “Maybe.”

“If that’s the case, it’s great that you’re our prisoner. You won’t get food to eat if you’re a prisoner of the Federation. You’ll even get interrogated.”

“Tikva, don’t talk as you eat.” His mother said. Logic told Banagher not to be bothered by him, but it was wasted, “The Federation won’t do that.” Banagher said.

“They will. Daddy told us before that he was a prisoner during the One Year War, and the captain saved him from his detainment.”

This boy called Tikva stared at his father who should be a one and only hero as he continued. Banagher glanced secretly at Gilboa’s weakly chiding expression as he did not intend to continue. Banagher said, “…Maybe such things happened.” as he reached for the bread.

“A lot of people had their families and friends killed by Zeon too.”

The Gilboa couple stopped again, and the children showed expressions of shock as they looked up. However, Marida did not show a sign of concern on her face as she continued to eat. Banagher stuffed the bread into his mouth. There was no taste. It felt like chewing on sand, and the sour saliva spread in his mind. “It’s the same for both. We’re fighting a war here.” Tikva said as his expression did not show that he was having a meal.

“Zeon’s fighting for the independence of Spacenoids. Big Brother, you’re a Spacenoid right? Why are you standing on the Federation’s side?”

“Tikva, control yourself, or daddy’s going to get angry.”

Gilboa growled, but Tikva’s widened eyes remained unmoved. Banagher swallowed the sponge-like bread and answered him, “Since where is there a just war?”

“Even if anyone says that it’s right, the fact that Zeon destroyed colonies and killed a large number of people will never change. Those who’re killed won’t even have the time to think if it were correct or not. Without knowing, one of these days, they’re just…this isn’t logical.”

''That’s right, this isn’t logical. Zeon’s an anomaly. Neo Zeon that destroyed “Industrial 7” is an abnormal terrorist organizations. I naturally have the right to defend myself unconditionally when I face such people who want to take my life like that. I just had the right to do this. That’s not killing. I’m not a killer—''

Tikva showed a crying look to Gilboa, who glared at Banagher once, but did not say anything as he put the soup into his mouth. ''See, you can’t say anything else, right?'' He grumbled in his heart, only to hear the sound of a chair being moved, causing him to jump up unwittingly.

It was Marida. Banagher thought that she was just getting up from her seat silently, but she left the table, got behind Banagher, grab his jumper collar with a hand, and was dragged out of his own chair without warning.

As Gilboa and the rest stared at this scene in a surprised manner, Marida dragged Banagher to the door with a force that did not allow for any refusal. “What are you doing…?” Banagher groaned as he spent lots of effort trying not to fall as he was dragged out like a leashed dog, and soon, he was brought out of the corridor.

“Wait, Marida…!” The mother said this as she raised her hand to stop her, and her eyes that once glanced at Gilboa looked at the door again. Marida did not look back as she did not open her sealed lips. Finally, Banagher merely saw the faces of the children with widened eyes as the beckoning darkness of the night closed in on his body and surrounded him. The howling of dogs somewhere was covered by the gusts that blew by.

===Part 13===

Both of them passed through the alleys just like this as they headed of the ‘hill’. It was just past 7pm, but the town was in complete silence. The night streets were sparsely covered with street lights, and even the sound of an electric care moving by could not be heard. Only the sounds of utensils clanking and the television sets echoing from every household could be heard softly. The stray cats that had ominous glowing eyes in the shadows crossed the alleys. It was unknown whether those with their lights turned off were already asleep, or that nobody had been living there.

Night in “Palau” certainly came early. ''Let go of me. I know. I’ll walk on my own.'' Banagher, who repeated this many times before he was finally released from Marida’s grasp was being prompted by something as he walked in the darkness. ''If she wants to kill me, she should have just done so right away. There’s no need for her to bright me to a place devoid of people just to finish me off. Maybe she’s going to bring me to a prison in the suburbs, just as I want.'' Banagher had somewhat defeatist thoughts as he continued to walk on the sandy ground faster than what was required. Marida did not speak up in the end, and the silent duo just continued down the dim alley just like this.

The town disappeared right behind them, and a wide quarry appeared right in front of them. The rock strata that was grinded by the cutter of the shield machine was chosen at this quarry. Those with minerals would be sent to the factory, while the rock remains would be sent to an airlock outlet with a belt conveyor that sent the rocks to wherever they needed to go. The shield machine cutter had not being used for a long time, and the quarry was littered with rocks and dirt that was dug but not processed, forming a sloped surface with a steep mountain. Marida went near the warning lights, proceeded on, and guided Banagher to a cave that looked like it was drilled through right in the middle of the sloped surface.

Unlike the central excavation connection shafts, this was a cave that was not strengthened with anything like concrete. The realism of the term prison suddenly closed in on Banagher, causing him to look up at the night sky before he reached the cave. The sandy clouds had not dispersed even during the night, and the lights of the stars, and the town lights that were flickering on the other end, could not be seen. Banagher’s legs felt fearful as he was unable to move, but he was glared at by Marida, who entered the cave first, and thought that he did not want to be looked down on. He swallowed his saliva and stepped into the cave. It seemed that there was a power source inside as Marida touched the control panel near the entrance, causing the lights inside to light the tunnel.

The icy cold air surrounded Banagher’s body, and the sound of the wind blowing by gradually faded. The tunnel showed a gradually downhill path for 20m, and after that, there was a hole that was broken through. Banagher was overwhelmed by the ceiling that was suddenly raised, stumbled a few times as he saw the sight in front of him, and gasped.

The stone pillars that were carved out were spaced out in a certain distance equally, and the ceiling supported by these pillars was in an arch shape. Under the ceiling were two rows of chairs that were rotting and tattered. The 2 rows of 10 chairs were lined up until the end of the cave. The inside of this hollow was even taller, and there were an altar that was almost rotting and a faded red carpet that was covered in dust. There was a podium at the right of the altar for preaching sermons, and on the other side, there was a pedestal used to receive the Holy Spirit. Entrenched deep into the wall on the other end of the hollow was a male figure who was crucified onto the wall—

The things in front were not exceptionally rare. There would be at least one church no matter which colony it was. Children knew that this person called Christ was the origin of Christmas day. Despite it not being as widespread as the old ages, the number of believers could not be described as few. Even non-believers would normally held weddings or funerals in a church. Banagher remembered that a pastor once recited a line from the Bible when his mother’s funeral was taking place.

But over here, this was not an orthodox church. The altar, the Holy water font, everything was obviously made from hand. The stained glass on the walls had lights shining in, and there was work done deep within the cave as it was possible to shine on the figure of the Cross. The fluorescent lights that mimicked the Eucharist Lights were most likely an antique of the old ages. The candle altar and the figure of the Virgin Mary were placed on both the left and right sides of the altar, and it was probably brought over from Earth a long, long time ago.

Those things were the remnants of the old ages…the Gregorian calendar that was also called the age of God. This was a fortress made by the toil, wear and damage on their bodies, the real believers who were stained with blood and tears—Banagher unwittingly walked towards the altar and stared at the silent figure of Christ. Marida quietly approached him and suddenly spoke, “What you said wasn’t wrong.”

“There’s no just war. However, being just alone may not necessary save people.”

Marida ignored Banagher, who was staring at her blankly, and looked up at the Cross. Her gloomy navy-blue eyes showed the light of the stained glass at this moment, glowing in a transparent manner.

[[Image:KSGU4 085.png|thumb]]

“This statue was built when this place was still part of the Asteroid Belt. The first batch of space pioneers were those who could not live on Earth, political criminals and people who had no other ways to live. When the Universal Century started, it was said that the Prime Minister said that this was a moment where Humanity would have to say goodbye to the century of Gods, but to these space pioneers, they would need a light they could rely on, especially those who lived in the asteroid belts, where the sunlight was mixed amongst the stars…”

The clear voice rang throughout the chapel, gradually seeping into Banagher’s tense body. He remembered the praying faces of Gilboa and the rest before they had dinner, and tried to say, “Light, is it…” Even though this “Palau” was dragged to be part of the Earth Celestial Sphere, the Church had built up in other places. The ideals of the people who saw light here 100 years ago had not disappeared even till this point. This belief would probably sink in with Gilboa and his descendants from the moment this was ingrained into the asteroid belt. They believed that one of these days, all suffering would pay off—

“Without light, people will be unable to live on. That’s why people want to rely on such a thing. However, the people who were abandoned into space finally found a light to replace this man. They found the new light called Zeon.”

Marida’s expression became a little sinister. Banagher again looked back at the image of Christ, and overlapped the image of Zeon Deikun he saw on the textbook over there.

“Whether it’s right or not isn’t important. To them, this light is important. They needed something to fight despair and live in this world that was cruel and binding. They needed something to believe that this world still has room for change. No one can laugh at such a demand. It’s stupid not to have a physical thing to rely on and live until now—if anyone can say that, that person is either being very happy, or is living in a way where he has nothing to do with the world. That can’t be called real living.”

Marida clenched her fists tightly as she said this. ''This person is letting me see her heart, telling me that if she doesn’t do this, she won’t be able to tell me something important.'' Such an understanding melted Banagher’s stiffness, and he felt his wavering heart calm down as he muttered, “Only humans have Gods…” This caused Marida to show an unexpected look as she turned towards him.

“Someone once said this. he said that humans have the power to overcome the current reality…the inner God called Possibilities.”

The words in his memories and the tapestry of the Unicorn were woven together like this, entering the bottom of Banagher’s heart. It was not a nightmare, but a voice let out by a definite existence, the one called his father, the words left in his heart—after a short moment of silence, Marida simply said this, “He’s really romantic.”

“It’s impossible for someone to say that without believing in Humanity or the world. I don’t know who said that, but he should be a kind person.”

Banagher was taken aback by Marida’s smiling face, and felt rather happy too. An embarrassed and proud complicated feeling rose up his chest, and he looked up at the image of Christ on the Cross.

Light. The inner God. Something that could be changed into possibilities or hope. Such a thing definitely existed in everyone, and yet varied amongst everyone. That was why everyone would agree with each other sometimes, and fight each other sometimes. If everyone was being wary about what they have different views on, they would restrain their laws and definition of justice, solidifying into an absolute existence and make their way of lives rigid, making mistakes.

At that moment, humans killed Gods. They killed off possibilities and set laws to the world, confining themselves into this fixed viewpoint. They casted aside weights like ethics and morals, and what often kept swaying may be their values. If not, Banagher would not spend time with Marida, who he deemed a “terrorist”, and they would not show their inner hearts to each other. Such insistence was foolish, and in a certain sense, regrettable…

''Stay here and learn.'' Zinnerman’s words echo in Banagher’s mind, causing him to look down onto the sandy floor, and a sigh came out from his heating mind. “Don’t mind about Ensign Sergi…that guy you shot down.” Marida said as she gently went by Banagher’s shoulder.

“Once you pilot a mobile suit into battle, you’re a fighting unit called a pilot. You have no grudges if you’re killed, and there’s no need to feel guilty about killing people.”

Marida’s words let Banagher know the significance behind his obstinate actions, and the thoughts that were hidden in his tight heart; they were already seen through. He inadvertently looked up and stared at Marida’s face. These were what she wanted to say, and what she experienced and understood. These two factors overlapped within her navy blue eyes, forming an instinct that had yet become a physical form. Banagher’s chest felt an icy chill, and he cautiously asked, “Have you piloted a mobile suit before?”

Marida glanced at Banagher silently, and immediately looked away as she simply answered, “I will when there’s not enough manpower.” This vague sounding answer might make anyone feel a chill, but after a short pause, Banagher thought of an uncertain possibility, and he could only stare at the navy blue eyes that were radiating light.

The light shining in diagonally from the stained glassed caused the side of her face looking at the Cross to look like the Virgin. ''Such a beautiful person.'' This recognition that only appeared in Banagher’s mind at this moment warmed his originally chilly body.

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| Back to [[KSGU:Volume_4_Illustrations|Novel Illustrations]]
| Return to [[Gundam Unicorn|Main Page]]
| Forward to [[KSGU:Volume_4_Chapter_2|Chapter 2]]
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</noinclude>

KSGU:Volume 3 Chapter 2

2020-09-30T15:40:19Z

8.20.65.4: /* Part 6 */

==Chapter 2==

===Part 1===

<nowiki><Norm Basilicock. Romeo 001, launching></nowiki>

As he reported that he was leaving the ship through the wireless communicator, squad leader Norm’s “ReZEL” number 1 slid out from the catapult deck. Riddhe saw his thruster flare on the all-view monitor, and grips onto the control stick.

“Riddhe Marcenas, Romeo 008. Launching!”

The display of the countdown timer showed 0. The G force seemed like it was trying to rip off the flesh on the bones as it struck the body, and the catapult deck beside his feet was immediately at its end. Riddhe stepped on the pedal and let the “ReZEL” number 8 fly out of the “Nahel Argama”. The wasteland that was right below the ship—the destroyed scenes of the colony flashed by his eyes, and in less than 2 seconds, the machine thrusted itself into the dark vacuum.

Perhaps they were crushed by the pressure from the inside. The debris of the colony look just like crumbled waffles. The passing scenery that was tightly packed together showed the scenery of a phantom city in the vacuum. No matter whether it was the width of 1km all around or the amount of gas floating about, even though this place had many conditions that allowed for the “Nahel Argama” to hide its presence, one would still want to look far away after seeing that white ship object being buried by junk. It looked like there were bugs or something clinging tightly onto the back of wilted leaves and climbing up.

The ship was floating around with shrapnel of all sizes floating around, and the cloud of space junk that was 100km wide in diameter expanded up, forming a debris field that was much thicker within the shoal space region. This was the aftermath of that first battle of the One Year War that increased to such scale that it became the largest fleet battle in history—the colony that was destroyed in the Battle of Loum now looks like this. The Earth Federation and Republic of Zeon clashed with each other directly in this Battle of Loum, right before the Antarctic treaty that forbade the use of weapons of mass destruction. It was said that several colonies were destroyed by the notorious nuclear bazookas. ''When they were suddenly sent flying into space with the rubble of the artificial land, did the people manage to realize that they died?'' Realizing this, Riddhe felt a chill down his spine. He shook his head slightly and turns his gaze to the front.

And right in front of Riddhe, the following descendants of those who did such damage—the remnants of the Neo Zeon army who were given the derogatory term “Sleeves” were moving towards them. <nowiki><Using the IFF, not responding and not slowing down.></nowiki> The wireless radio let out a signal and he could hear the Lieutenant Homare’s “ReZEL” number 4 moving beside him side by side. Riddhe makes a simple check to see that his mobile suit had stopped accelerating. The core reactor was still in good condition, and as he was equipped with a large weapon, the beam launcher, the machine itself was a lot heavier than usual. Riddhe stepped on the pedal and lets the boosters flare out its jets to maintain the machine’s posture. He increased the output to 1.5 times to match the equipped beam launcher.

<nowiki><Romeo 001 to all units. We’re using Delta formation. Make effective use of the remains></nowiki>

As he moved in front, Squad Leader Norm activated the main thruster and moved right at the target. Riddhe and Homare’s machines take the two sides. The “ReZELs” formed a triangular formation in the debris. As there was a chance that they might crash into the debris that was overly packed, Riddhe and gang did not change their machines into waveriders. The 3 mobile suits boosters let out short bursts as they moved forward, matching the speed of the remains that were of varying sizes and keeping their hands at a position such that they could shoot immediately when needed.

“We’re approaching the ship. Please respond. This was the “Nahel Argama” of the Earth Federation army’s Londo Bell. Please state your affiliation and stop your flight. Your ship has entered out ship’s defensive line.”

There were no Minovsky Particles nearby—because there was no need for that when they could hide their whereabouts in the shoal space region–the communication operator’s voice sounded a lot clearer than usual. It was not Mihiro, but Communication Officer Bellard this. ''Mihiro was left to be in charge of the civilians, and it seems that she is removed from active duty for now.'' As he wondered about this, Riddhe removed the safety of the beam launcher. He used the 30m long rock as a shield and pointed at the target.

They were at the border of absolute defense at the target, and the distance was less than 10m. The target’s movements were not changing. Even though it was moving slowly in a straight line while showing the form of debris, one could still detect heat signature from it. On the debris that was formed by the war 16 years ago, joking aside, there might still be heat left in it.

“You terrorists, even if you want to pretend to be a stone block…”

Muttering this, Riddhe placed his hand on the trigger on the control stick. This movement caused the “ReZEL”s mechanical arm to move, and the beam launcher that’s the size of an enemy unit points itself at the front. ''I’ll scare the enemy by pretending to shoot, and then immediately move my position to provide cover for squad leader Norm.'' As Riddhe again reaffirmed the basis of the attack he was taught, he stared at the target inside the reticule. Suddenly, <nowiki><Wait!></nowiki> Norm’s voice rang.

Norm’s unit, which was supposed to be the offense unit, moved to the front. Riddhe kept his position such that he could shoot anytime, moved to a distance such that the optical sensor could detect the profile, and stared at it. The enlarged window of the all-view monitor appears in the corner, and the image that was somewhat crude in definition was corrected by CG. The target’s length was less than 50m, and the shape was…

“What the heck…?”

Riddhe’s fingertips, which were locked on the trigger, shuddered slightly.

===Part 2===

“You say it’s junk?”

It’s been 6 minutes and 30 seconds since the order was given to begin battle. On hearing the report from the mobile suit squadron that was launched, Otto Mitas could not help but ask. “That’s what they said.” First Officer Liam Borrinea calmly said.

“We’ve determined it to be the debris of a Salamis-class ship. It seems that the backup power was still working, and the heat sensor ended up determining it to be something unknown. There were no signs of enemies nearby, and there were no signs of survivors.”

“It would be amazing if there were. That’s a ship that was sunk more than 10 years ago.”

Otto grumbled at the report made by the communications officer and sighed, undoing the fastener of the helmet’s latch. ''Most likely, it was the dead souls of the Loum battle and other bodies knocking into each other or something and started to float around ending up reaching the sensor range of the “Nahel Argama”. The backup power source that was thought to be an unknown object seemed to be activated when it collided, causing a short circuit. That should be the case.''

Vice-Captain Liam and the rest removed their helmets as well and pulled their normal suits collars out to allow air to move in. The horse-shaped bridge on the highest level of the “Nahel Agrama” was not as wide as it looked to be from the outside. In this space that was only about 10m, there’s the Captain seat at the middle rear area, which Otto was sitting at, a seat on the left and right side, one for the communicator and the other for the sensor monitor operator, each facing the panels on the side walls. At the front end of the bridge, starting from the left, there were the navigator, steering operator and weapons controller seats, and right above their seats, there was the main screen on it with many monitors. The windows were set halfway around the bridge, ensuring that it had visibility of ships in the Minovsky era. This layer of window was made of extremely hard plastic, and it could block radiation and even the heat of beams. The front of the bridge was covered with 4 such layers of this thick window panel, and the back part was reinforced with multiple bulletproof armors. With this, they would not have to deploy the protective shutter in battle and could see the outside scene with their eyes, but on the other hand, the bridge that’s pressured by the thickness of the shells became much narrower.

In the current age where ordinary bridges were built separately from a battleship’s bridge, one could not deny that the “Nahel Argama” bridge’s construct resembled more of the old styled concept. But during the One Year War, there was neither time nor technology for the ship to have that level of protective measures. Otto looks at the main screen in front of him, saw the debris of the Salamis-class ship that had 2/3 of its body chiseled away, and felt a little spooked out as he stared at that burnt remnant now.

Most probably, the turbine took a direct hit, and the inside immediately exploded. In that situation, nobody would be able to escape successfully. “Really…are all the parts that aren’t human taken away from the junk here?” Otto muttered to himself as he turned his back on the main screen. If it were his grandmother, she would probably draw a cross in front of her chest. But to Otto, who was an atheist, it was rather rare for him to even pray silently in his heart for a single moment.

“Even if it’s that kind of thing, it’s a piece of treasure to those guys from the recycling business. Shall we contact them to earn some bucks?”

Otto tried to speak up in a motivated tone to hide the fear inside him, but the laughter he hoped for never appeared, and he could only see First Officer Liam, who’s returning back to the navigation seat, roll the thick eyelids. That large burly 40 year old female, both horizontally and vertically, was larger than Otto himself, and like usual, stares at him without a smile, showing a frivolous attitude as she turns back to the console. Otto breathed hard through his nostrils to make up for this blank timing and ordered with a somewhat tired voice, “Alert removed. Operations to resume as per normal. Let the mobile suits return back to the ship.”

Communications Officer Bellard broadcasted this to the entire ship, and Liam looks back at Otto again, saying, “Was this good?” Otto was overwhelmed by that abnormally forceful poker face, and asks back, “Was there a problem?” Her face that was covered by some form of unknown make-up was staring at Otto, and she turned back forward without saying anything. ''What’s going on?'' Otto did not even have the strength to sigh out as he removed the helmet and looks up at the ceiling.

It’s said that a captain’s nightmare would be two things, one, losing a ship, and two, riding on a ship with a crew that’s not on good terms with him. However, Otto himself felt that there should be an additional item, and that will be having a large woman who was so hard to handle that he could not let his guard down around her as the First Officer. Otto managed to fight his way to the rank of a captain without any obvious battle accomplishments or camaraderie with people, only through his general qualifications. It was one thing for the battleship itself to be an unorthodox model that was hard to maneuver; it’s another thing for First Officer Liam’s existence to prick his nerves no matter when. Instead of saying that there were too many incompatible things between them…it’s more like she never had any intent of getting along. Whether it’s for good or bad, one could say that Liam had the temper of an artist, but her silent presence will sometimes overpower the captain and even dominate the atmosphere inside the bridge. Of course, it’s not like she herself didn’t try to avoid this situation through her own means, but her expression that already lacked emotion could give off a frivolous vibe. Sometimes, the crew on the ship will even say random things like “Captain Liam, First Officer Otto”.

In fact, in terms of instinctively detecting danger like an animal, her instincts were sharper than his, and her simple personality of ensuring the safety of the ship was guaranteed. That’s why he could not just leave her alone like that. Otto had already been looking forward to an ordinary life with no extraordinary events, but the aftermath of the battle this time may affect him in some way. ''No, I might not even be able to guarantee that I will survive this time.'' Thinking about it this time, Otto’s heart was covered with a layer of gloom.

Ever since the battle started, the command given by the advising headquarters were to ‘retreat’ and ‘remain on standby’. They were only told to first leave “Industrial 7” before the media surrounded them; remain on standby until reinforcements arrive, and nothing else. They lost more than half of their fighting capabilities, and the enemy was still out there, so even without instructions, they could only retreat. Even though they entered deep inside the shoal space region and use the debris of the colony as a place to hide, it’s been more than half a day since they were left alone.

''The retreat point was sent from the base coordinates of L1, so there’s no reason why the reinforcements could not find as. Since this mission is so special, is the reason why the reinforcements are so slow was because the higher-ups were arguing over ‘adjustments’ because of the unexpected damage from the battle? This might be more appropriate. It will be alright if we can get contact with the command of Londo Bell,'' Otto thought. ''If there’s something, the Londo Bell fleet will be on standby. Once they know that an ally is in trouble, they will hurry over to assist without waiting for the senators to make their decisions. But since we’re undertaking this secret mission under a direct from the Senate Council, we could not just make contact with our original affiliation as we wish—''

''Do we even have a next move?'' Otto felt tired over his thoughts that were going nowhere, and felt that it’s time to tidy his head that had been thinning in hair over the past few hours. He saw Commander Daguza Mackle walk in front the automatic door at the back, and hurriedly puts the captain’s hat that was hung on the side of the seat.

Daguza was wearing a deep dark brown normal suit which one would identify him as a member of ECOAS, and he removed his helmet, turning his head around to look. He seems to understand what was going on with such a motion, and turns his narrow eyes at Otto, saying, “May I know if it’s true that you mistook debris for an enemy unit?” Daguza asked with a voice that sounded courteous “Just like what you’re seeing.” Otto answered back coldly.

“Luckily, we’re not facing the enemy…up till now, there were still no signs of our army appearing.”

Otto finally said with a wry tone. To Otto, the reason behind so much trouble was because of the unshakeable fact that ECOAS used them as a transport. To this transport captain who did not have much authority, ECOAS and the higher-ups of the Federation could be said to be birds of a feather. However, Daguza did not seem to mind. The large body with the cast wrapped around his left arm was standing beside the Captain’s side,

“Leaving aside our allies, the enemy will definitely arrive.” He continued without emotion,

“Unlike us, the “Sleeves” have a very simple objective. A simple enemy will be much faster in their movement.”

Liam gives a sinister look at Daguza. All the crew in the ship felt repulsed by the ECOAS members, but ever since they left the dock, she seemed to have twice the hatred for Daguza than anyone else. ''Why in the world is this guy here?'' Otto leaves aside Liam’s expression that was telling him this, sighed and says, “That “box” they were talking about…?”

“That’s right. The enemy felt that we’ve taken the “box”.”

“How can you conclude so?”

“There’s no evidence to deny this. Even though the enemy’s depleted as well, that four-winged mobile suit is still out there. Once there’s a chance to get it, they will use force to come over to check.”

One could feel that beside Liam, everyone in the bridge suddenly jerked. Everyone knew that with their current firepower, they could not match the enemy machine that’s equipped with psycommu and was like a monster. ''Do I have to say it?'' Liam glares at Otto with the blaming look, “Looks like you’re trying to say that now’s not the time to leisurely wait for reinforcements.” Otto seized the initiative to talk.

“Yes. We’ll first break through with this ship before the enemy discovers us. It will be smarter to leave this space region.”

“Do you want me to ignore the orders from headquarters? Something like this…”

“Is within the jurisdiction of the current commander. A captain makes a decision by considering the safety of the ship and the crew, and after that, he could get recognition when everyone saw that he managed to preserve the weapons.”

Otto cannot say anything that will ensure the pride of a captain in response to Daguza’s solid logic. At this moment, Daguza seized the initiative and added on, “We should hurry and return back to “Lunar Two”.”

“The Gundam -type mobile suit that was taken back may very likely be related to the “Box”. The Senate Council will also hope for us to do such a thing.”

This report did reach headquarters. “But…” Otto’s eyes start to look away. He would not have any standing if he let Daguza beat him completely in giving suggestions. “I agree, captain.” Otto was panicking over what to argue back about as another voice rang inside the ship.

“But we’re not heading to “Lunar Two”, but the moon.”

As he says that, Alberto makes his way into the bridge. The normal suit he’s wearing makes his plump body stand out further as he stood beside the captain’s seat. He glanced at Daguza and gives a polite smile that was hard to stomach, saying “Unlike “Lunar Two” that’s on the other side of the Earth, the moon was just nearby, so it will be easily to head there, I suppose?” ''More than that, I’m really bothered that you would just randomly come in here.'' Before Otto could say that, Daguza let out a calm voice and said, “Not necessarily.” The fuse starting the debate immediately lit up.

“The enemy’s predicting that we will head to the Moon as well. There’s a possibility that we will be ambushed on the way. No matter how far the distance will be, we should move towards “Lunar Two”.”

“Space is large. I don’t think it’s easy to ambush us. Besides, we can still break through the ambush with our remaining fighting strength, right?”

“Our movements within the shoal space region are limited. Besides, in terms of military affairs, losing two-thirds of our fighting strength is practically total annihilation. Right now, it’s not a situation where we can simply force our way through.”

“In that case, we could not get to “Lunar Two”, right? Aren’t you a little too hasty to bring that “Gundam” back to the military, Commander Daguza?”

“We’ll naturally feel anxious if we don’t get reinforcements. That’s because the military command seems to have some civilian pressure in this mission.”

“That sounds like an excuse from you. You have to finish any mission. Isn’t that what a soldier should do? It will be unreasonable to blame it on us when the mission fails.”

“Because of this, I have to speak up as a soldier. Right now, we should have this ship break through this space region and return back to “Lunar Two”. There’s no other way to complete this mission.”

“What was your mission? To prevent the “Box” from falling into the hands of Neo Zeon? Or to use this chance to grab the “Box” and let the army use it?”

“Since you say so, Mr. Alberto, what do you plan to do after taking the “Box” back to the moon? Are you going to lock the “Box” back into the shared treasury between Anaheim and the Vist Foundation like the past?”

This tug-of-war that left the captain aside finally paused at this point. As Alberto immediately tried to argue back, “KNOW YOUR PLACE!” Otto roared to stop him.

“This is a bridge, not a place for you to carry out your debates, and definitely not a place where outsiders can randomly come and go at will! I agree that ECOAS can do whenever they want to in this mission, but I didn’t say that your suggestions are welcomed, Commander Daguza.”

Daguza was definitely a mature adult for shutting up and backing away, but on the other hand, Alberto gives a smug look while looking like he managed to win this time, “ YOU TOO, MR. ALBERTO!” and Otto could only do the same to him.

“Even if this is a secret mission, the limits of our ship’s actions are completely based around counter-terrorism. The reason why the reinforcements are delayed is simply because of a problem with the procedures, nothing to do with the “Box” at all. I hope you don’t forget your role as a civilian inspector.”

Even though he already knew that these would be words of an idealized scene, Otto said so as he stood by his words. “If that’s the case, I’m fine with it…” Alberto looks like he was not listening as he scratched his sagging cheek.

“Right now, the “Nahel Argama” is an independent force that was commanded by the Senate Council at the last minute. Under the jurisdiction of the counter-terrorist laws, our ship is already considered one of the few fighting forces who can act on their own without the Federation Senate’s permission, right? Who knows how much time we will take letting the main forces mobilize…as an inspector, I still suggest that we head to the moon. This is to prevent you from having to resign over such a large responsibility, captain.”

“Londo Bell has carried out countermeasures, but the Senate Council may be deliberately withholding information. Londo Bell might not even know that we’re waiting here to while they’re wary of multiple terrorism acts. I feel that we should head back to “Lunar Two” and wait for the Senate Council’s instructions.”

Daguza spoke up after Alberto did so. “I AM THE CAPTAIN HERE! ANYTHING WITHIN THIS SHIP WILL…” suddenly, a siren rang, causing the roaring Otto to swallow his words.

While everyone was still frozen there, Liam had already turned towards for the sensor operator’s seat. “What’s the matter!?” Otto asked with an enraged tone. “Another misjudgment. It looks like the piece of debris just now was slowing down.” The sensor operator’s voice caused Otto to be rooted.

“It’s probably some cooling agent or something accumulated inside spraying out. The target’s heat source is unstable. It’s a little hard to determine the identification conditions for it.”

Once the alert instruction was removed, Liam said with a calm voice. ''A Salamis-class debris floated here through some coincidence, slowed down due to some coincidence, triggering the motion sensor and the alarm?'' Otto holds back his sigh and asked, “What’s the relative velocity?”

“Zero. It’s already floating right above our ship.”

The main window shows the remnant that just so happens to be right above the ship. If the speed and heat weren’t stable, the Salamis-class debris would be mistaken as an unidentified unit once it changed trajectory. Though he could only pray for it to hurry up and leave the range, it just had to be of the same relative velocity as the Nahel Argama. “Was there a dead soul of Loum occupying it?” Otto glanced aside at Alberto who was saying it like it was somebody else’s business, grabs onto the handrail tightly and sighs hard. ''As a captain, I must not randomly roar out. I have to remain calm.'' Otto muttered to himself within his chest that’s about to explode and commands with a highly restrained voice, “Let the mobile suit squad remove it.”

“We should be able to push it out if it’s of that size.”

“But they returned back.”

The already impeccably calm Liam answered. “What?”

“They’ve returned back to the ship as you commanded before.”

''That’s what I was trying to ask you just now'' The emotionless Liam’s expression was saying so. ''Be clearer so that I could understand!'' As Otto argued back deep inside his heart while biting his lips, Communication Officer Bellard says, “Should we order them to launch again?” Otto saw that Daguza was looking away in an unimportant direction, and Alberto was giving a vague smile. The self-restraint he had several seconds ago was pointless as he roars, “SHOOT IT DOWN WITH THE MAIN CANNON!”

“Yes…” The weapons operator answered as he looks past Otto and right at ‘Captain” Liam’. “Why aren’t you repeating it!?” Otto’s enraged voice overwhelmed his doubt.

“Yes, main cannon, ready to be fired. Bridge’s designated target is…” The weapons operator frantically turned his face to the console and hurriedly sent the instructions to the gunnery room. Otto snorted out warm breath from his nose and steadied himself on the Captain’s seat again. Liam gave him a hesitant look. ''To heck with that, I’m the captain here. I can’t let my First Officer’s expression affect my own view, and there’s no reason for me to be told off by other squads or civilians. To a crew, a captain has to have god-like authority here. Isn’t this the pride and tradition of the seafarers ever since the times of the Navy?''

''Even so, wouldn’t it be too casual for me to use the main cannon?'' As a fearful wind brushed Otto’s back, the weapons operator’s report can be heard, “Front cannon, firing preparations complete.” causing Otto to swallow his saliva. ''Daguza and Alberto are looking at well. I could not take back the order. I’ll be looked down on by others all the more.'' As he made up his mind, Otto squeezed out a voice, “Get ready!”

“FIRE!”

===Part 3===

A mega-particle cannon of a battleship-class ship could be seen, and the power output was vastly different from a mobile suit’s beam rifle. The beam released by the enemy ship was a thin light that looks like a thread, and one could see it with the naked eye. The Salamis-class debris that was directly hit gave out light in the explosion and scattered all over the place, becoming small flickering lights. Marida Cruz saw all of that.

<nowiki><Just as expected. They even earnestly used the ship’s cannon for us. Now we know the position of the enemy></nowiki>

Gilboa Sant’s voice echoed throughout the bridge, and they could tell that he was extremely agitated through the wireless radio. Marida let her body float behind the steering seat and stared at the pitch black vacuum that extends out infinitely outside the window. Gilboa Sant’s “Geara Zulu” was about 90km away from this “Garencieres”, and was making full use of the sensors of the machine to detect the space region the enemy ship was in. From the relative position of less than 200km away, they should be able to see the beam and the explosion clearly. If the situation was good, they might even be able to detect the enemy’s correct position.

They found a piece of debris that was of the right size, caused it to produce heat, and let it float to the shoal space region that might have the enemy ship hidden inside. Once the enemy ship mistakes it for an unknown enemy unit and sends out units to intercept it, they could deduce the location of the ship through the units’ location. The “Sleeves” basically viewed the Shoal Space Region as a garden, so it was not hard for them to deduce a specific coordinate from a vague position. Also, the enemy ship firing the main cannon so carelessly allows them to save a lot on manpower. “Alright, call Gilboa to come back.” Leaving aside Suberoa Zinnerman’s voice, Marida asked herself, ''What kind of enemies are they…''

''From the experiences of what happened in Industrial 7, I could tell that they’re a squad that’s not used to battle. An ordinary Federation ship that viewed daily training as part of work…are they such an enemy? Then what’s the mysterious pressure I feel—''

“We’re moving to an area where we can carry out laser communication, and we’ll send out a message to the “Rewloola”. Is there still no action at Industrial 7?”

“Just ships moving to and fro from the moon. Side 2 is sending aid, but there’s no signs of any forces residing there.”

In response to Zinnerman’s question, the other crew member who took over Gilboa’s seat answered as he sat on the navigator’s seat. The optical sensor received the visual image that’s far away, and there was an interrupted electronic news broadcast from long distance that was mixed with static. In the past few hours, he had been keeping his hand on the headset to listen to the situation. “Don’t tell me that ship got abandoned.” Flaste Schole said as he sat at the steering seat. Half a day had passed since then, and even the civilian aid had started. It was really strange that there was not even a Federation ship coming over for reinforcements. “They probably suffered by undertaking such a dishonorable mission and were most likely viewed to not have existed in the first place.” Leaving Zinnerman’s words behind, Marida focuses her consciousness in the vacuum.

The debris floating around absorbed the sunlight far away and let out white lights that were vaguely bright and faint at times. This was the shoal space region Marida was used to seeing, the space dust that distorts with the bright light. On that side, the remains of the colony were gathered, having a hidden heavy ‘presence’ inside. It was not the kind that could be felt on the battlefield, the ‘presence’ that would come over at her, but the ‘presence’ that’s coming out from a certain existent, one similar to the breathing of a beast…

“What is it, Marida? You sensed something?”

The doubtful voice hit her from behind as the consciousness that was being sucked into the vacuum returns to the body. Marida turned to the captain’s seat and looked at her master who detected her reaction through her eyes. They do have reinforcements, but the “Garencieres” had a setback in the mission, and was now isolated without help, which makes them not so different from the enemy ship. Marida sensed Flaste and the rest pricking their ears, and she, who was relied on as the sensor amongst the crew, was shown looks of concern. She lowered her head and says, “No, it’s just…”

“I feel that the princess isn’t in Industrial 7 anymore.”

Unexpected words came out from Marida’s mouth, and she shut up. She had never thought of this before until now—but she did realize it when she said it out. She sensed ‘her’ presence when she went by the mysterious pressure given off by the enemy’s ship. ''That’s right, did I hear ‘her’ voice before when I fought with that white mobile suit that’s most likely kept there…?''

“You’re thinking too much.”

Zinnerman approached Marida from behind and put his hand on her shoulder, causing her to jerk.

“The “Rewloola” will immediately attack that ship. Whether they have the “Box” or not, we just need to go back to Industrial 7 after that. We’ll definitely find her.”

Marida felt a sense of warmth in her shoulder that was touching. ''That’s right. It’s not my job to think. I just need to follow this person who’s giving me warmth from his hand behind me.'' “Understood, master.” She answered softly and temporarily releases the strength inside her. Zinnerman supports her loosened body with one arm and scratches the hard beard on his chin.

“Let’s check out Full Frontal’s abilities.”

===Part 4===

“The “Garencieres” sent a report to us?”

The moment he entered the door, Angelo Sauper asked with a voice that was loud enough to echo throughout the entire bridge. Sitting on the Captain’s seat was Ship Captain Hill, who gives an unhappy look to him, frowning as he says, “We’re able to search out the target’s L1 basic target thanks to their report.”

“It seems that they’re near the remnants of the colony. There aren’t any other enemies around. In another three hours, we can capture the enemy in our range.”

“Just like what we expected. Those guys are left on their own. That’s what happens to those who failed in their own secret mission.”

The smile on Angelo’s lips widened as he put his hand on the back of the Captain’s seat. Even though it might be viewed as being unruly, Hill had no intent on correcting him. As the piloting crew of the transport carrier was in charge of protecting their forces, the atmosphere was such that they will allow for any forms of insubordination and overruling of authority. Amongst them, Full Frontal’s own escort squad’s identity was even more unique. Angelo ignored the Vice-commander’s look of frustration as he turned his eyes to the navigation screen.

Down the indicated arched trajectory of L1 in a block of shoal space region, the light spot representing the target was blinking. The coordinates were <nowiki><L1+02373.E39034.N44393></nowiki>. The speed and distance in space could only be indicated in relative terms, but the relative positions between the Earth and the Moon would remain constant. If the average value of the gravity of Earth and the Moon was used, they could at least mark an absolute value on the coordinate trajectory. At their current speed, they will need 3 hours before reaching their target. If they accelerate, they would reach the target earlier, but it was no picnic accelerating too much in the shoal space region. Even though they were using their own shoal space region maps that were much more detailed than the universal specifications, they could not avoid all the debris, and the ship itself was grazing by space dust and rubble of all sizes. Angelo felt that Ship Captain Hill’s judgement was correct and simply looked around at the bridge with more than ten communication operators working.

The bridge of the “Rewloola”, which had entered space for less than 5 years, was still considered a new model. This bridge in particular had an outstanding view and wide space, which Angelo really fancied. The unique traits were the ceiling that was most likely two levels high and the setup that puts the navigator’s seat cleanly in mid-air with support, allowing the operators to work right above the Captain. The observation window that was designed for one purpose only was put at the front to preserve sight, the 3-dimesional space was effectively used, and all the designs on the bridge could be used independently in battle. It could be said that the “Rewloola” itself was one of the results of the ship-building ideas during the Minovsky era that was maximized.

The ship’s shape itself had quite the characteristics as well. The ship’s body looked like a triangular block from above, and had many curves all over it to make it look alive. The 6 ball shaped booster tanks that were placed on both sides of the hulls look like the eggs of a living thing. It was not a far-cry to say that the “Rewloola” inherited the design of the large battleship of the old Republic of Zeon’s army, the Sadalahn-class. As for the reason why the ship itself was painted scarlet red, that was because the ex-commander-in-chief Char once rode on this ship, leaving behind a great influence.

The second Neo Zeon war was also known as Char’s Counterattack. Char Aznarble was the commander of the army at that time—as the son of the deceased Zeon Deikum and also the Zeon army’s Red Comet that terrorized the Federation. It was impossible for the flagship he rode on before not to be painted with the color red. He was about to send the hammer of judgement to the Federation to let the world known that the son of Zeon was to end his time of hiding. The “Rewloola” had to have the color red on it.

After an intense battle, the Neo Zeon army retreated in defeat, and the commander-in-chief Char disappeared as well, but such a closure made it hard to actually decide the winner. Londo Bell, which was the frontline of the Federation, took a devastating blow, letting the Neo Zeon fleet. After spacing into the Shoal Space region, they had an idea of using the remaining forces to launch special attacks, but after having lost their spiritual leader in Char, the Neo Zeon army was basically divided. At least half of the survivors scattered, and the fleet that became an empty space stayed in an asteroid full of resources that was basically a wasteland to catch their breaths, waiting for their annihilation—until that man called “The Second Coming of Char” appeared again, prompting Neo Zeon to rise again for the third time.

It had been 2 years after that. The “Rewloola” regained the life it had back then, and right now, the revived Neo Zeon army that was derogatory called “Sleeves” started to make use of its capabilities as a flagship. Including the Captain, most of the members were new, but there were still some deserters amongst the NCOs. Angelo felt there would not be an end to this if he was to pursue this, and he had no intent of doing so as well.

These activists included people who once escaped and yet came back after knowing that Neo Zeon was coming back, people of the Deikum sect and the Zabi sect who had been arguing against each other and started fighting over the basic ideologies as well. Angelo felt that they were all existences that could not be replaced. ''What the revived Neo Zeon army needs were the passion of young people and young blood. Only the young who will not dwell in their past defeats and focus all their efforts on revolution could became the core of the organization. That man had admitted this as well. That man who had the innate nobility and talent to lead us from birth intend to fulfill the ideas of Zeon and the real independence of Spacenoids. The pain and loneliness of Mankind that’s bestowed to the world was ultimately not what the vast number of vulgar people could understand. As he looks around at the bridge crew that were giving him stupefied looks, Angelo fluffs up the fringe that’s sagging down to his forehead and says to Ship Captain Hill, “We’re getting ready to launch.”

“The battle will end in ten minutes. We just need to watch the battle here, Captain.”

“Sounds really intense. Will it really be that easy?”

On hearing Hill’s distressed tone, Angelo stopped his feet that were about to turn.

“The Federation had already done this trick of using optical observation on the shoal space region. They probably know about where we are. While they will normally let us go, this situation now involves that Laplace Box or something, right? If it were so secretive that the Manhunters have to be mobilized to take it back, the news that we’re closing in should be received by the enemy ship.

“The Federation’s ability to adapt isn’t that good. The number of forces they can hide is limited. Right now, they should be arguing amongst themselves over what they should be doing. None of them want to take responsibility for this.”

“That’s good if that were the case.”

“There’s no sign of reinforcements, right? No one’s backing them, that’s why.” Angelo showed a formal smile and let his body float towards the door. “Besides, if those guys were so efficient, we would be annihilated. The human economy isn’t so solid that it can be balanced in complete safety after all.”

“An occasional terrorist attack isn’t anything much if we consider the millions of jobless people, is that so?”

“That’s the case. That’s why there’s a need to change this rotten society, to allow humanity to live on for another 100 years.”

Captain Hill narrowed his eyes slightly as he answered with silence. ''You’re still green'', these words were telegraphed to Angelo’s back, and Angelo answered in his heart ''I’ll remember that'' as he left the bridge.

===Part 5===

The moment he arrived on the mobile suit deck, the smell of grease and the body heat permeated the air inside the enclosed space, and the air that was heated by the electric cables let out such a smell. Angelo was bothered that the smell of cologne on his uniform was nullified as he kicked the floor, passed through a passage and floated to the large deck.

There were 12 mobile suits docked inside the “Rewloola”. In the large and expansive space, 6 mechanical hangars were lined up on each side, and one could see the main machines “Geara Zulu” placed them. The mobile suit silhouette itself was based on the Zaku-types of the Republic, and the part that was basically the wrist had a sleeve logo drawn on it. One could tell its affiliation from the logo’s color or the design itself, and this was the reason why the Neo Zeon army was derogatorily called “Sleeves”. Also, leaving aside the blade antenna that indicated the leader’s machine, even the shoulder armor all had flexibility that allowed affiliation or rank to be changed, which allowed the “Geara Zulu” to show the characteristic of not being a mass-produced suit.

Amongst them, the most eye-catching would be the escort squad’s machine. Angelo let his body flot towards the 3 escort squad machines on the deck. The machine had sharp armor plates on both shoulders, and the fixed shields were removed, making the silhouette more offensive. The back had two thruster tanks and stabilizers, and they were attachments that were taller than the shoulders, and one could imagine them to be like angel’s wings. The other thruster tank and stabilizer that was not installed was on the back of the butt, poking out like a tail, causing the entire appearance to be more suitably described as a demon, a ferocious demon that protects the Red Comet—

Most notably, Angelo’s squad leader machine was designed with a purple base coloring, making it stand out from the thick green machines. While checking the preparations for his own machine, Angelo went for the mechanical hangar’s platform. As the mechanic officer and the rest were inspecting on the spare parts, the other two pilots of the escort squad quickly saluted Angelo.

[[Image:KSGU3 0105.jpg|thumb]]

These two people were the tall, lankly blond with good looks, Lieutenant Cuarón and Ensign Sergi with cold green eyes. Both of them were officers in their early 30s, and the green uniforms of the escort squad really suited them. These two backup pilots and the other mechanics on this ship who were less than 30 years old were all part of Full Frontal’s own personal escort squad. However, they were given special privileges in equipment and training. Each of them was strictly chosen from the army, talents who were able to beat 100 enemies. Angelo stepped onto the platform and notified the duo, “We’re sorting out in 3 hours. Remain on standby until then.” Cuarón and Sergi stood still “Yes, Lieutenant Angelo.” They chanted.

“It will be your first battle as part of the escort squad for you today, Ensign Sergi. How does the “Geara Zulu” of our escort squad look?”

“Yes! The machine’s more specialized in long distanced combat than I imagined, but I’ll try to get used to me. I won’t forget your kindness in nominating me for the escort squad.”

“Don’t give yourself pressure. Meritocracy is Zeon’s tradition. Just perform as per usual…besides, there probably won’t be any chance for you to perform this time.”

Cuarón gave a meaningful smile, and Sergi frowned in a puzzled manner. Angelo flicked his own fringe and told Sergi, “The Captain will be sorting out today. There’s no work for us.”

“…What do you mean by that?”

“You’ll understand once the battle starts.”

Angelo inadvertently curled his lips and turned his eyes to the mechanic behind him, ordering them, “Captain Full Frontal will be coming over. Don’t ever ease up the atmosphere in the mobile suit deck until the end.” The mechanic answered, “Yes, I’ll inform the rest!’ and floated away from the platform. Angelo watched him leave, and in his eyes, he saw a mobile suit that was docked in the deepest part of the deck. The crimson red giant was larger than the “Geara Zulu”. As Angelo stared at the cockpit that was basically the abdomen of the machine, the excited Sergi whispered to him, “So the rumors are really true?”

“Like how the Captain won’t wear a normal suit when sorting out.”

The green eyes flickered, and Sergi looked like he wanted to say “It’s like…” Angelo corrected Sergi inside his heart. ''It’s not that it seems, but that it is'', “Yeah, there’s no need for that for the Captain.”

“That’s because he has the belief that he will definitely return from the battlefield.”

Sergi’s boyish face turned slightly red as his eyes were captured by the red mobile suit. Cuarón turned his back on Sergi, smiling proudly, while Angelo turned his eyes onto the machine that was waiting for the master to arrive. The MSN-06S “Sinanju” was a crimson red machine that used a large around of curves as part of Zeon’s flair and had a elegant and streamlined contour. ''That is the only mobile suit that matches that man, the Red Comet who will snatch the Box, which has a secret that can topple the Federation, and liberate the world.'' Angelo was immersed in his own motivating thoughts as he smiled away in a fanatical manner.

===Part 6===

<nowiki><All personnel, regaining space visual department. All passages open.></nowiki>

A vague voice could be heard as it echoed through the speakers inside the ships. As he saw the sergeant beside him heave a sigh and remove his helmet, Banagher asked, “Is it over?”

“Yeah. You can take it off too.” The sergeant answered while he took off the fastener of the normal suit. This middle-aged sergeant who was giving off a vibe that he trained officer was an NCO who was assigned to guard the command post, and it seemed that he was an old-timer who had the most experience in being a guard. He was the one who brought Banagher here to evacuate after the siren alert for battle rang. They were near the “Unicorn”s maintenance hangar, and several rows of normal suits were lined up in this room. Currently, he and Banagher were the only ones around.

As the wireless network in the ship was activated during battle, they could hear the conversations between the bridge and all the other departments. However, Banagher still could not say that he could even vaguely understand the conversations that included lot of technical jargon. Even though he could roughly tell that this raid was a bogus judgment, it was still a mystery why the main cannon of the ship was fired. As they were evacuating, he could hear messages like <nowiki><Backup personnel, swap duties 5 minutes earlier></nowiki> and <nowiki><Execute Assignment A></nowiki>, and he could see the passengers walking around frantically at the doors. ''They’re working, huh?'' Banagher thought blankly. ''Even if they’re the military, there’s nothing unique about them. They’re just like the workers in the factories, doing their own duties to let the ship move, that’s all—''

“That’s why I’m asking where you’re bringing me to…haa? How will I know if the squad leader doesn’t?”

The sergeant growled angrily into the room’s internal phone he picked up. The lax assignment of duties caused the crew to be unable to handle the unexpected situation. ''Everyone’s not used to an actual battle, huh?'' As he thought about that, Banagher was about to keep the normal suit he put on as a familiar color and shape crossed by him.

“Haro…?”

Banagher did not think that he made a mistake in identifying it. He went after the green ball that moved past the door and arrived outside the locker room. “Oi, don’t just run out like that!” the sergeant growled. “That’s mine.” Banagher answered and held onto the grip lift. “Oi, wait!” Banagher kicked the floor as he ignored the sergeant who left the phone behind.

Banagher thought that he could catch Haro immediately, but it ignored his calls as it flapped its ears and nimbly turned around the corner. “Oi, you! Hold it!” as he heard the sergeant’s growls behind him, Banagher switched grip lifts at a cross junction and moved down a narrow passage 90 degrees aside. ''That’s weird. There’s no reason for Haro to ignore me like this. Maybe somebody else gave it a verbal command. If the memory’s not deliberately deleted later, Haro will treat the owner and anyone it talked to for a long time as a friend. If it can follow even a simple command, the only ones on this ship who are registered as friends are Takuya, Micott, and as for the rest—''

At the second turn of the cross junction, Banagher finally caught up to Haro just before it turned around the corner. As he carried it, he felt that it stopped on its own, and said, “This isn’t good. You have to be with everyone.” Haro’s eyes merely flickered as it answered, ''<Haro>'' Banagher was about to return to the locker room when a hand reached out for the coat of the collar.

Banagher was pulled from the back of his head and went into a door on the passage that was opened. He wanted to share it off immediately, but got a glimpse of the emerald green eyes that shone in the dim light, and his heart pounded crazily.

“There’s no time, Banagher. Listen to me.”

''Audrey.'' The mouth of the emerald-eyed girl covered Banagher who was about to call her name, and she showed an irritated look, muttering quickly, “Oi, brat. Answer me!” On hearing the sergeant’s angry growl pass by the door, Banagher nodded at her. Audrey released the hand holding Banagher down and led him deep into a room that was like a storeroom with all the lights switched off.

The light that shone in through the door caused the purple cape that fluttered with the air to appear. ''Why is she here? What happened to Ensign Mihiro and the rest? There were a lot of things Banagher really wanted to ask, but he did not even have the time to ask as Audrey pushed him to the pile of cardboard boxes that was fastened with a belt, and brought her face close to a distance where he could feel her breathing. She let out a questioning voice, “Did you really activate the “Unicorn Gundam”?”

“Unicorn…Gundam?”

The term was something he knew, yet it felt alien to him. Banagher repeated the term that was that felt like a mysterious curse, sometimes safe and sometimes dangerous like a parrot. "So that was the name of that machine." Banagher accepted it in his heart unconditionally. “What happened?” Audrey’s anxious voice repeated.

“Seemed that way…”

“You say it seems—”

“I don’t really know. Everything happened so quickly. There wasn’t even a warning or something…”

Banagher diverted his eyes away from the frowning Audrey as his eyes escaped to the shadow formed by the gaps between the boxes. The bloodied face in his nightmare appeared in the shadows , causing him to clench his fists.

On one hand, Cardeas talked about believing in possibilities and doing what one had to do. On the other hand, he could hear Cardeas talk through the wireless network like a war merchant. "Which one is the real you?" Banagher thought as he recalled the words Alberto said. “Alright.” At this moment, Audrey sighed. She turned away as she made up her mind.

“Can you still activate it?”

Audrey’s voice sounded rather sound. "Eh?" Banagher thought as he looked up. As he was held down by the intimidating stare in her eyes, he answered, “I guess…”

“Then, leave this place with me.”

Her calm voice caused Banagher to hold his breath and gasp. He looked around meaninglessly, and then asked, “Here, as in, this ship?” as he stared at Audrey who was floating 30cm away from him. She however did not even nod.

“Impossible. I can’t do this.”

“There’s always a way when you get onto the Gundam. The ship crew here isn’t experienced enough. The remaining problem is to shake off the Special Forces.”

Audrey said as she diverted her eyes to a corner of the ceiling. Banagher realized that there was a surveillance camera there, and exchanged looks with her serious expression. He eked out a voice, “Audrey…”

“You can still make it back to Industrial 7 now. Once you reach there, I’ll deal with the machine. You’ll be fine when you say that you were threatened, right?”

“But…”

“That’s a dangerous machine that can’t be handed to anyone. We have to destroy it before it docks in the Federation base…”

“Please wait for a while, okay…!”

Banagher was driven by the fear that was about to blow him up from within as he subconsciously grabbed Audrey’s shoulders. He pulled her body down from the air and stared at the eyes that were at the same height level as him. Audrey looked over with an expression that was hard to discern.

“I don’t understand what you’re saying. What did you say that mobile suit is? Please explain it clearly to me.”

“There’s no time now. I’ll explain the details to you later. First…”

“How can I decide on something without knowing what’s going on!? Why must you talk to me like this!?”

“Like this…?”

“Like you have to do this, like there’s a need to do that. It’s really too sly to try and force someone to accept it in such a way…besides, ain’t I not someone you don’t nee?”

Even though he felt that it was sneaky of him to say it, Banagher still said it. Everyone only thought of saying what would be convenient to them and not actually talking heart to heart. Even though those were the words of others, he could only feel empty as he was left in the lurch. "What can I believe now when some things have to be decided in such a situation now?"

Banagher felt that his stomach was starting to heat up as he shut up and turned his back on Audrey. He pressed a fist against a cardboard box and muttered with clenched fists, “Everyone’s making decisions on their own…”

“You too, the people here too, even that man…” The heat continued to swell and rise in him, breaking through his restrain. Realizing this, Banagher closed his eyes and squeezed out his remaining words, “Saying that he’s my father out of a sudden…”

“Father?”

“Forcing that kind of mobile suit to me, saying it’s the curse of the Vist Family, and the Laplace Box or something…I don’t even know what’s what now!”

Banagher felt that Audrey held her breath. “Are you talking, about that Cardeas Vist? Then, you’re the Vist family—”

“I don’t know! I was separated from him when I was young, and I couldn’t even remember his face. He didn’t come over to mother’s funeral, he wouldn’t even meet us, and now out of a sudden…”

The thoughts after that never became words. The hatch limiting his emotions was gone. Fear and anger raged on in his abdomen as if it was a backlash of emotions that was held for several hours. After a stunned silence, Audrey muttered, “Such things happened…” Banagher could hear the surprised voice that seemed to understand something from behind him as he moved to reach for Haro that was floating in the air with nowhere to go.

This was an old toy that he continued to maintain and update ever since he received it as a Christmas gift at the age of 5. The familiar touch entered his clutches safely. At that time, the fad for toys ended in less than a year, and it was a long time ago since the time when the manufacturer stopped sales of Haro. Even so, Banagher never let go of Haro when he entered middle school. He would try his best to repair it himself whenever it was spoilt, and his mother would often nag at him in an annoyed manner,

''“Just give it up already. Haro’s already at its limit. Isn’t it weird to go around with an old toy?”''

''“It can still move if I repair it. That’s nothing bad about it.”''

How did the mother feel when she knew who gave that Haro to this son of hers who argued back? No, Banagher had already realized that it was a gift from his father, and his mother knew that Banagher already knew about that. Even though nobody said it out, both of them viewed that as an unspoken secret and accepted Haro as a family member. ''Why am I still bringing it around? Is it because it’s the only thing linking me to the father I know? I never had the feeling of wanting to meet my father before.''

''No—I probably still want to meet him. I created an impression of father myself though mother’s words and the immaturity of my sealed memories. I let myself believe to make up for the ‘absent’ reality, and there are still a lot of things I should really look forward too.'' Banagher was hoping that he could one day lift his head up high and meet the man who was his father, and such an idea gave him his minimum level of aspiration and made him not stay inside the slums that were his hometown. Perhaps it was this motivation to improve that was effective in a certain way that was able to allow him to endure his mother’s death and take on that loneliness of being isolated by the world.

''But in reality—''Banagher put down Haro and closed up the seal of his memories. Haro floated around in zero gravity, hit the wall and flicker its eyes, flapping its ears and making some sounds.

“…A long time ago, there was a story that was passed down like a legend.”

As Haro made noises, Audrey’s voice directed itself at Banagher, who moved his face slightly.

“Once the Laplace Box is opened, the Federation government will reach its end.”

Banagher was driven by a pulsating feeling and turned behind. He saw Audrey rooted over there, a figure in the darkness.

“This isn’t something everyone knows of. However, something that involves the center of what they call society will naturally reach some people’s ears somewhere. One must fear the Vist Foundation. They have the Box. Those that follow the Foundation will have riches and honors, and those who disobey will have death…”

It felt like a supernatural story. Banagher swallowed his saliva, but Audrey shrugged him aside as she continued to state calmly,

“Nobody knows what was inside that Box, but they knew it really existed. The Laplace Box was a form of convenience obtained from the government, an invisible pressure on the government’s eyes. The most triumphant example is the Anaheim Electronics company. It single-handedly controls the military needs and public needs, and won’t be pursued even when it was helping Neo Zeon. Without the backing of the Vist Foundation, it would be impossible to imagine that they would have such rights.”

Banagher unwittingly used his hand to touch the chest of his jumper. The initials and crest of Anaheim Electronics was printed on it, and they left a rough feeling on his fingers.

“Cardeas Vist intended to hand that Box over to the “Sleeves”…Neo Zeon. The location was Industrial 7, the colony builder that was under the name of the Vist Foundation. However, the Federation army sniffed out signs of the deal and sent this ship and the Special Forces over. And then…”

That battle happened. Banahger sense that his body was about to tumble over as he used his hand to hold onto the pile of cardboard boxes.

“I had to prevent the Laplace Box from being handed over to Neo Zeon. I don’t know Cardeas Vist’s real intent. However, Neo Zeon still can’t use that Box. Once that power that can topple the Federation land in their hands, there will undoubtedly be a war that will be like the One Year War, causing devastation on both sides.”

Banagher recalled the history shows he once saw on the television, the images of the colony landing on earth. It was an idea of ‘throwing a colony down’ that a colony in orbit was slowed down to act as a mass bomb. The military country controlled by the Zabi family, the atrocities of Zeon, the moment the megacity was wiped out, and how the landscape was changed as a result, bringing about all sorts of calamities onto the earth. There was no need for special technology and expenses. By manipulating the resources around them, they were able to cause a disaster that never happened before—''that’s right, it’s not difficult to destroy the world just like that.'' Banagher abruptly thought.

''With some imagination and madness to do it, it’s not difficult to destroy the world. There are definitely many chances to start a war of total annihilation, but people probably haven’t discovered them yet. If the Laplace Box contains such methods, and if they end up in the hands of Neo Zeon that is the descendant of Zeon…''

“Neo Zeon hasn’t obtained the Box yet, but since they know it exists, they will come for it no matter how many times. The same thing as yesterday will happen again. A war will start. We have to destroy it before it actually happens.”

“Don’t tell me, that is…”

''There’s no need to hear the answer.'' Audrey answered with her eyes.

“It’s not the Box itself, but a guide to the Box. Cardeas Vist handed the key to open the Box, the “Unicorn Gundam”…that machine to you, his heir.”

The last words Cardeas left behind and the words about the “Unicorn Gundam” everyone on the ship was rambling about started to echo in Banagher’s head. He slowly floated around in zero gravity, leaning his back on the cardboard boxes. Audrey stared at him and twitched her long eyelashes slightly.

“I don’t feel that the current world is perfect. We have a lot we want to say as well, but if we let so many people die…I think there’s still a way to gradually change the world’s thinking. Up till now, humanity has managed to survive like this. It’s better not to have such a thing like the Laplace Box—”

“Who, who are you?”

''I couldn’t listen to everything you said.'' He said. Audrey’s shoulders jerked slightly.

“It’s like you know everything about Neo Zeon…it’s like I’m listening to some great person. It’s different from your voice in Industrial 7.”

Audrey lowered her head and closed her mouth. It was the same whenever she faced him and raised some unreasonable requests; it was the same when she said that she did not need him, the helpless look she showed during that short moment after she finished her words. The wavering of emotions that were restrained showed that she was actually rather delicate. She was smart and had a strong sense of responsibility, but in contrast, those emerald eyes would not see anything else once she was determined. The side of her face that showed a slight smile when she called herself duckweed was alluring enough to drag him in. It was not simply because Banagher could resonate with her emotionally, but that he realized that there’s a spark in the resonance to her existence.

Right now, Audrey did not have that charisma. Even as she pretended to talk in like an adult, it was the same. The way she held back by her position as she spoke covered her up. ''Is it because she can’t remain undefended against me once she feels that I’m necessary to her? If that’s the case, I might as well be someone unnecessary to her.'' “Let me hear your voice.” Banagher said. ''This alone won’t be able to create a spark because I’m not smart enough to act based on logic.''

“I want to hear, not about what you have to do, but what you want to do. If you’re willing to tell me…”

What can I do then? Banagher’s voice softened as he spoke, and he was unhappy about his own sputtering as he waited for Audrey to speak up. ''Logic doesn’t matter. Just find something that allows you to find your passion. Find a passion that allows us to be together, that passion that can’t be created in the disjointed world, that passion that can resist the icy cold world.'' Banagher felt that no matter whom Audrey was, that would be enough for him to escape from here. ''To save her, I have to bear the weight of the world—''even if Cardeas’ words became reality.

Audrey lowered her eyes and clenched her fists, having finally showed an expression of realization. She stared at Banagher.

“I want—”

“What are you two doing?”

A cold voice suddenly rang, interrupting the rest of the words. Banagher froze and at the door from past Audrey’s shoulders, who in turn was stunned. With the light source shining from the corridor, Banagher could tell that it was Micott standing at the door.

“Being all sneaky over here…what are you doing, you? Pretending to be missing along with everyone, is there something you want to discuss with Banagher?”

Micott let out stinging words as she grabbed tightly onto the door frame. Banagher felt the icy expression from her eyes as he stood in front of Audrey. “I’ll take to you later, Micott…” he said “WHEN’S LATER!?” Micott’s loud voice echoed throughout the room, causing the skin to tremble.

“A lot of thing was messed up ever since this woman appeared here! Are you one of the terrorists allies? Now you’re intending to trick Banagher? What are you planning?”

''I just entered a trap I dug myself and forgot about''—he had such a feeling. “I…” Audrey muttered softly, only to stop midway and bite her lips. Banagher saw this and instinctively growled back, “Micott, that’s not right of you.” “What…” Micott cringed back as her eyes showed signs of tears.

“The colony we lived in is ruined! Slyvia and Mario disappeared like dust! Even Anaheim Electronics was blown with the ground…do you think I can forgive her!?”

No response. He felt that Micott’s response was the normal one, and yet felt that he had to continue to keep a secret. Both these issues bore down on Banagher’s heart, and the thought of him being the worst traitor bored down on his heart. ''I can’t go back to Industrial 7. I can’t remain in the days with the disjointed feeling. It’s really a path of no return.'' All sorts of thoughts appeared in Banagher’s heart.

“If you’re allied with the terrorists, I—”

She stared at Audrey with teary eyes and eked out a voice before stopping there. “Ah, over here.” “Miss Micott, disappearing like that out of a sudden is really…” as they wondered why other voices came over from the passage, Takuya and Ensign Mihiro appeared at the door.

Takuya first noticed them in the room as he blinked and said, “Huh, Banagher?” Mihiro, who put his hand on Micott’s shoulder, showed a shocked expression as she said with an absent-minded tone, “What are you doing here, Miss Audrey? Everyone’s been looking for you.” After a short pause, “Sorry, but I’m still not used to controlling the liftgrip.” Audrey said the answer she had already prepared beforehand. Banagher looked back in Micott’s direction after seeing Audrey answer, and realized that they would be doomed if things were revealed here. However, Micott did not look at anyone as she merely shook of Mihiro’s hand to leave the scene.

“Wait, Miss Micott!” Mihiro called out as she chased after her. Banagher too got onto the corridor and witnessed Mihiro turn around the cross junction. Takuya then got up from behind to clamp Banagher on the neck and whisper, “What exactly is going on?”

“Even if you ask…”

“I did help you speak up the last time, but actually, I still haven’t accepted things yet.”

Takuya put his hand on Banagher’s hand and glanced at the door of the room where Audrey was in. Banagher’s fingers that were placed on Takuya’s arm shuddered slightly.

“Her lack of immigration record will be exposed once we get back to “Industrial 7”. You better put an end to this before that happens.”

Takuya quickly finished and released Banagher, stepping on the floor to leave. ''He’s not actually angry, but worried about me.'' Banagher stared at the back of Takuya that gave this vibe and saw a glimmer of hope. He then met Audrey’s eyes at the door. ''Put an end to this—how?'' As both their eyes gazed into each other’s “You brats actually came all the way here!?” a rude grol rang through the corridor, and the guard showed a completely different expression as he stood at the cross junction.

===Part 7===

The reason why Daguza could not avoid that shadow completely was because he had to protect his lleft arm that was fastened with the cast. He quickly kicked the wall and barely managed to avoid direct collision. After seeing that person who lost her balance slightly, he gasped a little.

The person had slight wavy long black hair and long legs under her shorts. The girl who basically did not look like she was a member of the ship crew was the reason why he gasped. She probably did not use the liftgrip, but used inertia to move over. Daguza grabbed the girl as she looked like she was going to slam into the wall quickly and let her hold onto the liftgrip well.

“Excuse me…”

“No worries.”

The girl did not look like she minded about this as she held onto the liftgrip and slowly moved. She was one of the civilians he met in the recreation room, the girl who brazenly said that her father was a factory owner. Daguza saw this girl who looked a little lifeless, completely different from before and mused in his heart: ''To think that they’ll let civilians move around the ship like that…'' and sighed as he got ready to hold onto the liftgrip again.

''It’s worrying that the fracture’s unable to heal because of long-term exposure to zero gravity. I want to hurry up and get to a place with gravity, but how are we going to let the ship move to “Lunar Two”?'' Daguza thought of that very bothersome Alberto’s face and was about to think of a way as a troubled voice could be heard from behind. “Erm…”

The black-haired girl stopped in the middle of the corridor. The half-turned face showed a hesitant expression, and once their eyes met, it looked like she intended to avoid Daguza, who noticed that the girl’s eyes were drenched in tears.

“There’s something I don’t know who I should talk to about…”

Despite being troubled, the girl said with a depressed-sounding voice. Daguza moved his hand away from the liftgrip.

===Part 8===

The metal door to the monitor room was pushed open. Conroy, who leaned the his big body on the terminal monitor, had his eyes half opened in a dazed manner.

“I want to connect with the ship’s database archive. Can it be done?”

Daguza quickly spoke to stop Conroy before the grumbling about how he should be sleeping came. Conro’'s expression changed the moment he saw the ID card that was obtained. “Please use it.” Conroy said as he stopped his half-completed assignment and gave up his seat in front of the terminal. Daguza pulled the chair and swiped the ID on the card reader beside the computer.

Daguza typed in the 10-digit password he remembered on the keyboard with his free right hand. The log-in screen shown on the access page was the database network managed by the Federation Central Intelligence, a download right a Londo Bell ship would have. Of course, only those of cadre class could log in, and the important classified information were removed from here. However, it was an important treasure when searching for particular information—for example, the appearance of a terrorist or a fugitive. Daguza first chose the picture comparison option, and entered the ship staff’s database, entered the name and gender and let the program pick up the selected photographs.

“Are these the civilians kept on board?”

Conroy let out a surprised voice as he looked at the photo shown on the terminal. All the civilians had their face photos and fingerprint data collected before they were taken on board the battleship. “This may be it.” Daguza did not actually believe that girl, Micott Bartsch’s testimony completely without belief, but once she mentioned it, he did notice something. He had an impression that he saw this somewhere before when he saw that person. As the relation between those two was too sudden, Daguza’s mind did not have time to actually think.

The forehead, eyebrows, eyes. The data match with the photo appeared in that order, and gradually formed a complete face. The search ended, and the face that was no different from the photo was shown on the matchup column. It was a front face photo that was secretly taken, CG repaired. The name was—

“This person is…”

Conroy let out a hoarse voice as he brought his pale face to the terminal. Daguza held his fingertips that looked like they were trembling, trying not to show any emotion, and briefly answered, “Keep it down.”

“Don’t take your eyes off ‘her’.”

''That’s all we can only do right now.'' Daguza gave this command to a still-puzzled Conroy and closed the database.

===Part 9===

The Captain’s room was not a place a pilot should be entering unless there was an order. Besides, it made even less sense for a pilot to be welcomed by the captain so much if the pilot had not achieved such a huge accomplishment.

“Ah, you’ve arrived. Come now, take a seat here.”

However, such an unreasonable situation was happening. Riddhe was prompted by Captain Otto’s mysterious courteous smile as he sat on the sofa of the reception room. Right beside him was Squad Leader Norm, who was invited in earlier, giving an ugly expression as compared to Otto. Riddhe could not tell exactly what was going on as he was suddenly summoned in after being on standby, and could only remain cautious and wait for the unexpectedly excited Otto to speak up. The officer room attendant wearing a white servant uniform served some cutlery for tea and poured red tea into the trio’s cup.

“This is an actual produce from Earth. It’s not cheap, but it’s one of the few forms of relaxation for me. I normally bug my wife to let me carry this onto the ship. Here, have some.”

The attendant left the room as Otto said with a very good mood. Riddhe glanced aside to check on Norm’s expression, deduced the moods, and realized that there would be no problems for him to start drinking as he sat properly, took the teacup, and answered, “Yes! I’m tucking in.”. Riddhe took the teacup, had a sip, and tasted the sweetness amidst the bitterness. “Ah, that’s right.” Otto suddenly patted his thigh as he said this. Riddhe barely managed to take a first gulp as he resisted the urge to spurt out the red tea.

“You’re born on Earth, Ensign. I suppose things like this red tea from England aren’t something rare?”

Otto chuckled while giving the vibe that he’s forcing things. Riddhe saw Norm’s slightly moving cheeks, understood that he intended to laugh with it, and pretended to give a smile as he answered, “No, not at all.” Both of them gave empty smiles that stopped inside this reception room, giving the mood that something annoying would be discussed within this room.

“Then, there is no special reason why I invited both of you. I suppose you can understand the situation in our ship now, Ensign?”

“Yes…”

“Ever since the battle started, we had only two instructions issued from the Central Council. Retreat, and standby. I really want to assist in the colony evacuation, but since we are on a special mission from the general headquarters, we can’t show ourselves in front of the media. We could only leave the colony after taking back the spare parts of that Gundam.”

''Shouldn’t this be part of the Captain’s jurisdiction?'' Riddhe really did not want to laugh with him as he put the red tea to his lips to avoid answering.

“We’re hiding inside the shoal space region like this…but there’s still no sign of reinforcements. It seems that Londo Bell has taken action, but just on usual alert. We can tell that the headquarters on Londenium have not grasped our location. Even if we want to alert Command, we can’t communicate with them when we’re under special orders even though we belong to them.”

Otto, who took a sip of red tea, showed a faint glint in his eyes. At this moment, I thought of you.” On hearing these words, ''Here we go again.'' Riddhe thought.

“If I’m correct, your father does have quite the high standing amongst the Central Council, correct? Ronan Marcenas. It’s said that he’s the chairman of the Settlement Issues Council, and also very active on national defense, a truly impressive important senator.”

''And an ‘if I’m correct’ to top it off.'' Riddhe thought. “That’s correct, I presume?”

“I hope you can contact your father through a private message and raise the issue that our ship is isolated without any traces—“

“Please allow me to refuse.”

Riddhe answered before he even heard the end. At this moment, he did not even look at Norm’s face as he stared right at the blinking Captain Otto, trying to answer reasonably, “Isn’t this against Military rules?”

“How can we send private messages during a secret mission? If it’ll be against Military rule, just ask ‘Londo Bell’ for assistance, and things will be solved, right?”

“That’s the hard part. If we send out an official request, we may be isolated by the headquarters and left out in the cold. This is the consequence of the magic of the Laplace Box’.”

The Box—Laplace Box. This term that shut everyone up the day before caused Riddhe to quieten down.

“You heard of this before, so I’m not going to hide anything here. The chances of that Gundam-type mobile suit being heavily related to the Laplace Box are very high. The higher ups seemed to be keeping still while trying to decide what to do with that mobile suit. There are people who want to use this chance to get the ‘box’, and the people who want to restore it back in its original position; both sides are fighting it out. Well, basically, the army and Anaheim Electronics are having a tug-of-war here.”

“Won’t this be easy? We’re soldiers, so let’s just follow what the army intends.”

“There are complicated costs and benefit relations involved in this. Basically, there are all sorts of people amongst the cadres in the Central Council, like those highest executive cadre members who intend to become senators and enter politics, and those congressmen who intend to move under Anaheim once they resign…it’s because of these people tussling with each other that reinforcements won’t come in no matter how long we wait. Even as Londo Bell asks for reinforcements, a certain level will intercept. Right now, the “Nahel Argama” can be said to be a small-scale version of the being two different sides being in the same boat, but the Manhunters and the Anaheim employees. There are so many people trying to lead the ship…that’s why.''

Otto put the finished cup back on the plate, and heaved a deep snort. ''I see. So it’s a political issue?'' Riddhe’s body that half-gave up on Otto reluctantly cooled down, and he drank the red tea that had no taste left. ''I understand this, but it’s annoying even if this is the case. That unhappy damp feeling that covered the ‘family’ made it all the way here''—

“However, we might have a chance of surviving if your father can pull some means from within, like give a call to Londonium’s Commanding Officer Bright Noa. If it’s him, he will send reinforcements while letting people think that it’s a patrol. With Senator Ronan’s assistance, the Central Council will not be able to get in the way much.”

“It’s hard to say…he’s someone who views cunning policies as his life. I can’t guarantee that he will take action based on the hopes here.”

“His cute son is on this ship too. There’s no way he will leave you alone.”

The shackles binding Riddhe’s heart was about to be broken as he faced the nonchalant sounding Otto. He clumsily put the teacup back on the plate and intended to glare at Otto. “I’ll ask for that too.” However, the voice that was let out stopped his idea.

“I think I can understand how you feel, but there’s no one we can rely on now.”

Norm, who had not said a single word since just now, and had no intention of putting the red tea to his lips, was clenching the fists that were placed on his knees. “Squad Leader…” Riddhe answered as he saw his mobile suit squad leader who lowered his head and would not lift it back up, his voice stuck in his throat.

“If the reinforcements don’t come, we won’t be able to take revenge for those brothers who died. I can only ask of you this.”

Norm’s shoulders trembled violently as he lowered his head such that it was nearly hitting the table. Riddhe saw the shoulders that were trembling because of this anger and regret that was more than his, and saw Otto, who swallowed his saliva as he witnessed this. He let out a sigh from deep within.

===Part 10===

''There’s no other choice.'' Riddhe returned back to his room and ended up spending 2 hours writing a mail to his father.

He had never sent a phone call for the past few years, let alone a message. His body did not have a function to communicate with his father, and he felt a chill when he started off with ‘Dear Father’. He wrote the letter while his heart was basically in agony. Riddhe was really about to faint when he ended off with ‘From your son Riddhe’. ''Someone like me actually ended up writing a request for help from that dad—''

No outsider would be able to understand this mental trauma that was like forcing a painter to step on his own painting. He quickly finished the mail, sent it to the bridge, and felt a surging urge to kill Otto for merely giving a ‘sorry to trouble you’ formality on the surface.

''Our ship will now be heading to an area where radar communication can work. We will be on second-level alert when leaving the shoal space region, but please remain in your own room, Ensign.”

“It can’t do if we make a request to the senator while getting his prince hurt!”

Otto gave a wink that gave the impression of a frozen face, and cut off the chatter linking from the bridge. To Riddhe, this might be a good thing. “DAMN IT!” Riddhe’s outcry caused his soles to be expanded on the monitor, but luckily, this scene was not seen by the Captain. Riddhe stamped on the communicator panel and went to lie on the bed.

Soon after, the siren telling the crew to remain on standby could be heard, and the engine which sounded like an air-conditioner increased. This was the sound of the Nahel Argama being ready to launch. They were leaving the remains of the colony towards a place where they could send messages by radar—a place where the radar would not be affected by the debris. On hearing the noise that came with the jerking of the furnishings in the room, Riddhe thought in the heart: ''Whatever you want. No matter where I go, the Marcenas’ name will never let me go. It’ll reach to the ends of the universe and surround me with its irritating damp feeling. The man who walks through that moisture leisurely will then give an arrogant wry smile and say: It’s about time for you to become an adult. Humans have roles they should perform since the moment they’re born. You shouldn’t be having a role of such a character on the other end like a pilot.''

''Then, what’s my role? Am I going to use my parents’ protection as a weapon? Reclaim the mantle to my family to answer everyone’s expectations? Do they want me to stay in this world where every corner is grey? Learn how to distinguish between black and white? Don’t joke around. I want to distinguish between black and white with my own power. A pilot doesn’t have a grey region. The superiority of abilities can decide life and death, and I survived from it. I tried my best. That’s because I ran away from ‘home’ and never thought of relying on it once.''

However—the actual battle from before proved that the biggest difference between life and death was luck. It taught Riddhe that the difference between sitting or standing when the god of death swung its scythe would decide things. The thing that decided these differences was the change in situation, and a pilot, a character on the far end of the spectrum, had no power to change the current situation. ''This ship is asking me for the power to change this situation to break this deadlock. They’re not asking for this pilot called Riddhe, but the direct blood kin of the Marcenas…''

He was tired. He had no motivation on wanting to escape to another place. Riddhe yawned as he noticed the thing floating his eyes, and widened his eyes that were about to close. The plane model that was placed on the table seemed to be floating because of the tremor from before. Riddhe grabbed onto the red baron plane model that was famous during an old century war, and let it float in the air where gravity had no effect. He thought, ''Oh yeah, my beloved Grumman is still kept by someone else. I left it with that mobile suit maniac kid…Takuya, was he?'' Riddhe got off the bed, stretched and moved towards the room door.

The civilians that were kept were kept at the recreation room in the same gravity block. ''It was tiring to talk to that brat, but it sure is better to shake off my thoughts instead of being gloomy by myself.'' Riddhe was rather excited about meeting Audrey again. He left his room and took his first step towards the recreation room as an intense tremor from the floor caused him to stop in his tracks.

Riddhe did not know what was going on. His body slammed into the ceiling, recoiled back onto the floor, and the corridor lights changed to the emergency red lights. Another tremor rocked the ship, activating the siren. The announcement from the operator was blocked by the explosions that rocked the ship, and a force that was 3 times stronger than before caused Riddhe to fly off.

This time, Riddhe got into a protective stance and kicked towards his footing that was either the ceiling or the floor. ''An enemy attack—and the ship took a direct hit. This is fast. Where is the attack coming from? There won’t be an answer even if I think here.'' Riddhe held onto the liftgrip that was jerking slightly and let his body glide towards the mobile suit deck.

===Part 11===

In this era where Minovsky Particles could render electronic weapons ineffective, the concept of guided missiles had long vanished from the battlefield. The times where guided missiles that would not let go of their targets, the era of the button wars had become a relic. This battlefield that could be seen before the Middle Ages was brought up to space as both sides fought it out while being able to see each other’s locations. The mobile suit that was at the front acted as a cavalry, while the ship at the back took on the role of moving its base. The missiles in this era would be less effective than even flaming arrows if the ships do not engage in close combat.

Even so, production of long-ranged missiles had never ceased even till this point, and the missiles viewed as important armaments for navigating ships. The concept was similar to the cavalry battles of the old ages, where throwing weapons were often viewed as treasures. Even though they could not use radar navigation to do precision attacks, the missiles would fly right at the targets once they caught sight of the enemy’s locations and determine the course for impact. The missiles, if used with conjunction with the rockets that could not be controlled when fired, would be very threatening in terms of distance and destructiveness. In particular, two direct hits from large anti-ship missiles could sink a battleship.

At this point, these anti-ship long-ranged missiles passed through the shoal space region and hit the debris of the colony where the Nahel Argama was hiding in. based on initial observations and the L1 basic coordinates that were derived after some time, it showed that 12 missiles were shot out from a Rewloola-class. 4 missed their target, while the remaining 8 hit the outer wall of the of the old colony debris, igniting the explosives that were filled within.

Blueish-white flashes continued to appear and expand, each expanding as the impacts collided with eac other. The 8 fireballs converged with each other, covering the debris of the colony. The supersonic impact caused the outer wall to be partially shed off, and the massive heat melted the materials. The common drainage built underneath were ripped apart, and the energy that crushed the buried dirt to break through the other debris, spurting through the inner walls.

The debris field had still had artificial land mass since the War before, and for a moment, looked to be surrounded by smoke. It was an impact tremor that could be felt from right below, as the dust that was on the building or ground—small particles that piled up after many years of floating in space—danced around. Also, the flash that appeared from underground was leaked out through the gaps of the earth plates, showing a chessboard-like network that spanned 1km of debris. Red flames shot out a second later like lava flowing, eroding the debris in the vacuum, and depicting the scene of uprooting perfectly.

[[Image:KSGU3 135.jpg|thumb]]

The Nahel Argama had kept its scout camera ball, which was used for outside surveillance, back in, and intended to leave the debris. This was a shocking thing to them. The scout camera ball was a complex sensor that was operated through long cables, and was originally tossed outside amidst the debris to act as a coordinate where the ship could see its blind spot. The Nahel Argama kept it to move, and basically lost its eyes that could see what was going on inside the debris for the time being, while the missiles seemed to rush here at this precise moment.

The debris that was floating in the silence of vacuum suddenly corroded, causing a large amount of debris that flew to hit the bottom of the Nahel Argama, and the uprooted street lights and half-wrecked electric cars hit the ship directly with blazing trails. The giant ship that was almost 400m long was obvious shaken as all the items that were not fastened within the ship were all flying. The crew started bouncing several times between the ceiling and the floor. The gravity block was no exception as Banagher and the dining tray were sent flying, Takuya and Micott slammed into the wall, and Audrey held onto the foot of the table. Mihiro beside them took the internal phone of the recreation room, but was knocked together with the receiver into the air by the continuous shaking. Banagher grabbed onto Mihiro’s waist to catch her, and both of them slammed together into the monitor panel on the wall.

Daguza was slammed into the ceiling of the corridor, while Alberto was curled up like a ball as he fell in the room he made his own. The cranes and the frames let out metallic cries that sounded like they were going to snap. Gibney and the other maintenance soldiers were moving all over the place in response to this. Norm, Riddhe and the other pilots leapt into their own cockpits. There were equipment that could not be used, starting with the anti-air machine guns that took direct damage from the debris, but the bridge had to confirm the damage of the ship later. They were already on standby, but First Officer Liam and the others who had not put on normal suits were thrown off the chairs. Captain Otto ended up having his head crash into the ceiling.

Cries and grunts caused the cries and all the noise to be messed up within his skull that was numb with pain. The scolding hot debris grazed past the front window of the bridge, and numerous red vestiges entered their eyes. It looked like the top of an erupting volcano—

“ENGINE ACCELERATE! EMERGENCY RETREAT!”

Liam finally managed to sit back in her chair and shouted out this command without waiting for the captain to make a decision. The steering crew member recited the order and turned the steering wheel into the designated direction. The bow of the Nahel Argama lifted by almost 90 degrees, and Otto, who saw that the ship was heading up through the colony debris, recognized Liam’s immediate decision in this situation. He also had the thought of accelerating forward to escape, but the rubble was scattering, and they were trying to limit the hit area to the smallest possible. The Nahel Argama left the colony debris and managed to escape with the scattered debris hitting the stern of the ship.

“CHECK THE NUMBER OF CASUALITIES! HURRY! WHAT’S THE AIR SURVEILLANCE DOING!?”

Otto shook off the heavy impact his head took as he started yelling. He received the normal suit from the warrant officer waiting on the bridge. “There’s no sign of any enemy around!” The sensor operator’s growl entered Otto’s ears.

“The guess is that the attack came from outside the radar range.”

“Impossible. Look for it. There’s definitely an enemy disguised as a debris out there nearby.”

Otto slipped his legs into the normal suit and pulled the zip. The sounds of the rubble hitting the ship could still be heard. The remains of the colony below them were gradually crumbling as he saw the saw of it scattering everywhere through the monitor. He then turned his eyes on the searching sensors located on the left flank of the ship. There were direct hits from the anti-ship missiles—and it was not just 2, 3 hits. There was definitely an enemy ship that fired countless missiles from very close distance. It was less than a minute since they kept the scout camera ball and reduced their detection ability. It was basically impossible for an enemy ship to get close, fire missiles and retreat back outside the radar.

“It’s not guided missiles from the radar era we’re talking about here. It’s impossible for missiles to be so accurate once they’re fired and control is lost, and from that distance too…”

Otto unwittingly said these words, and felt a chill on his back. ''An attack from afar. If there are no signs of enemies nearby, this is the only thing we can deduce. If we use outer space as a background, the enemy ship will merely be a speck of dust. There’s only one way to shoot from outside the radar range and into a 1km radius full of debris. That will be to deduce the absolute coordinates of the target and clear all obstacles in the way before shooting off all the missiles.''

''That’s right. The enemy knows where we are exactly. I carelessly used the main cannon just now because of the trouble with the Salamis-class rubble and revealed our location—

“We’ve been had.”

Liam, who looked like a bear as she was wearing the normal suit, whispered beside the captain seat. Otto saw the tense look from the side of the First Officer’s face and wordlessly looked forward. “High-heat object, closing in rapidly!” Shocked, he lifted his head once he heard the voice of the sensor operator.

“4 targets, coming in from above the ship. Estimated time before reaching, T-minus 3.3”

''It’s different from the first wave attack coordinates. We’re surrounded.'' Otto temporarily left aside this worst case scenario as he asked, “Missiles again!?”

“No, this movement is of a mobile suit, but…”

The stuttering voice showed fear. Otto looked at the back of the sensor operator from behind Liam’s shoulder.

“It’s unreasonable for it to fly through the debris at such a speed. A unit leading the squad is moving in 3 times faster than the mobile suits behind!”

The sensor operator lifted his head from the control panel, looking rather pale as he turned to the Captain’s seat. “What did you say..?” Otto felt his muttering mouth widen as he stared at the sensor image.

The unidentified unit left behind the units at the back as it flickered mysteriously. ''It’s a completely different unit from the ‘Sleeves’ mobile suits before, including that four-winged—''Otto heard his skin give off goosebumps as he unwittingly grabbed onto the armrest of the Captain’s seat.

===Part 12===

The attacking speed of that red mobile suit was definitely far above the Geara Zulus that were following behind. The high-output thrust unit installed on the back was a reason for this, but that was not all. The red mobile suit was also skilled and stepping on the debris in its course, utilizing superb technique of recoil and thruster jet use to move forward.

The unit immediately floated through the countless metal debris and stone rubble that were far larger, crossing each side, leaping on each debris piece, shot out thruster jets at full power to the next debris piece, and kept going through the shoal space region at this accelerated dash. Of course, the debris would move with the course, so it was not able to gain a proper footing beforehand. It predicted the course of the debris beforehand, chose the next landing point before having footing, and chose the shortest path to the next target. Even a high-capacity computer would not be able to compute in time, and this was an amazing skill that was like climbing a cliff by jumping off falling rocks. The pilot of the red mobile suit—the “Sinanju” could do it however. The angelic-looking wings of the thruster unit flared as the red mobile suit leapt through the torrent of debris like stepping stones, elegantly dancing through space.

As it moved forward, the colony debris that hid its trails was crushed as a Federation ship emerged from the chaos of debris. The face of the masked pilot wrinkled with a smile as he saw the white ship emerge into the underworld. His hands were wearing thing gloves as he held onto the control sticks, while his feet that were covered with boots stepped on the pedal. The pilot was wearing a crimson red uniform that had gold ornaments, and was not wearing a normal suit.

“Let me see the capabilities of that new model Gundam then!”

The bushy blond hair felt vitalized as it swayed gently in the air. As the “Sinanju” passed through the torrent of debris, Full Frontal chuckled in the cockpit.

[[Image:KSGU3 141.jpg|thumb]]

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| Forward to [[KSGU:Volume_3_Chapter_3|Chapter 3]]
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Magika No Kenshi To Shoukan Maou:Volume 6 Chapter 5

2020-03-09T16:07:38Z

8.20.65.4: New lines to prevent furigana overlap

==Chapter 5 – Head-On Collision ~Magic War・Sekigahara~==

===Part 1===

“Both Kanon and I, as the commander of the general offensive?”

Akane was dumbfounded and leaked out her voice. Regimental Commander Yamagata who summoned Akane to this control room nodded gravely.

The base of the restructured division, for the sake of their counterattack to Gifu prefecture, was moved from Shizuoka to the garrison in Aichi. The room where the highest rank in the chain of command that ruled this garrison was located was in here, this station control room.

Right now this room had become the possession of Commander Yamagata. This place was Aichi garrison, but the one that recovered this Aichi was the counterattack force led by Commander Yamagata after all.

That commanding officer summoned Akane and handed down an improbable order.

“This is a joke right? I’m still a student you know.” Akane smiled bitterly with taken aback feeling.

“Student huh. Without a doubt you are a student but…let me ask you in return. Right now, can you trust the other adults in the Knight Order?”

It was a really sharp question that cut like a blade.

For her who was still in the position of knight candidate, it was hard to answer this question honestly.

But Akane guessed what was it that Commander Yamagato was looking for. She gathered her courage and answered frankly.

“Saying it clearly, I cannot trust them at all.”

“Isn’t that right? I too think so about all the people around me. I don’t know at all who in the world can be the spy from Yamato in the Knight Order. While feeling such paranoia, you are one among the few humans that I can say without doubt is not a spy. You get it right?”

“Yes but, for someone inexperienced like me…”

“I don’t think you are inexperienced. If you ask me why, that’s because you are also among the few people that had experienced leading a troop in a magic war. …You are the one that handed over the report concerning the previous [Magic War・Okehazama] to me, aren’t you? In that report there is this opinion written, that [the magic war from now on is going to be completely different compared to all the war until now]. I think it really hit the point. There is no one that had experienced something similar like you among your senior knights. In other words you are the one that have already become the number one veteran here.”

“The one who took command of that battle was not me, it was Hayashizaki Kazuki.”

“I heard. But don’t tell me that you want to make a first year of Knight Academy a commander. To say nothing, that currently Hayashizaki Kazuki is in the middle of infiltrating the enemy’s territory. If he comes back, it’s fine to make him your vice officer.”

Akane’s feeling became complicated. …For her, she thought of him as a [King], she was the one who wanted the position as his vice officer instead. She felt that such way suited her personality.

“…I too want a right-hand man that I can trust. That’s why even though this is more or less coercive, I’ll attach you to a fitting position and I want you to pile up achievement that anyone will recognize. The one who should build up the new era must be the young.”

“…Even so just as expected this is a complicated feeling.”

Akane said with a squeezed out voice.

“In the previous battle, I held nothing but a defeated feeling. In regards of Hayashizaki Kazuki, in regards of my own inexperience, it’s only deplorable. Despite so, even if you said that battle experience is recognized…”

“But you are able to find your own composure, you are a human that can grow the more you experience failure. I am someone that can see such quality in a person you know?”

Akane unconsciously tightened her fist hard. The gorgeous delicate fingers became white from putting too much strength.

Yagumo Akane―was being self-conscious that her own self was just a mediocre person compared to Koudzuki Kanon or Hayashizaki Kazuki. For a person like her to be in a place like the Witch’s Mansion where geniuses were gathered, she managed to accomplish her responsibility as the Vice President, though imperfect, by always thoroughly [being kind to other person and harsh to one self], that was how she came this far.

Because she was a mediocre person that could work hard that she was relied on by the geniuses.

If she rejected this request, then surely she would lose even that single foundation of hers.

Could she do this? No, she had to be able. The creative power Hayashizaki Kazuki showed in the previous battle―should have already become her own flesh and blood.

“I understood, I accept.”

“Good. I should have already entrusted everything of the force composition to you, haven’t I? Then you should have already put in order the arrangement so that you can move this counter attack force as your own army. As soon as possible…”

At that time a hurried footsteps from outside the room could be heard and the door was opened.

The figure that appeared was Amasaki Mio.

“Re, re re re reporting informationnnnn-!”

The girl was too nervous and her speech was in chaos.

“When entering the room of your superior, get permission first for entering the room through the extension interphone.”

Akane warned with a bitter face, but Commander Yamagata’s expression broke out into a smile seeing an inexperience that was so like a student.

“Don’t worry about it. She is still a first year that is inexperienced in the Knight Order’s custom after all. What is your business?”

“Kazu-nii…Hayashizaki Kazuki had sent contact that the operation is a success! Invade immediately right now he said!”

Hearing those words, the expression of Akane and Commander Yamagata were filled with tension.

“Is that true? Has the smoke signal been fired?”

“No, it’s not from the smoke signal…he sent his voice of the heart to me!”

Akane and Commander Yamagata’s expression that were full with tension went a complete change into a frown filled with doubtful feeling.

“Is that the delusion of Kazuki inside you, or something like that…”

When Akane questioned her doubtfully, Mio went “That’s not it-“ and shook her head.

“With the power of love, our hearts are connected with each other-!!” She said that while puffing her chest proudly with ‘ehem’.

The commanding officer and the commander exchanged their glances.

“She is saying a really stupid thing but…what do you think? However to say the least, youth is really enviable huh.”

[[image:Magika No Kenshi To Shoukan Maou Vol.06 180.jpg|thumb]]

“They are connected with the power of bond. A long range telepathic communication by means of the power of King…it’s not something that is really that impossible. If this is really true then this method is far more effective rather than something like a smoke signal.”

This was a chance they had waited long for, but it came in the best form that they never even imagined.

Both of them nodded at each other—they immediately moved in action.

Lightning fast was necessary for this operation.

===Part 2===

The troops that moved to the neighborhood of the provincial border using the army buses disembarked and separated into vanguard and rearguard, then they marched to the direction of the border. There was a national highway that headed to the prefectural border between Gifu and Aichi.

An older knight arrived to convey the report from the scout toward Akane and Kanon who became the commander.

“There was a military response from inside Yamato’s territory. They had sensed our movement and quickly assembled the troops they distributed in Toyama and Yokkaichi garrisons here in Gifu using the magic light train.”

The troops had surely been given a detailed instruction from Commander Yamagata, that they had to act courteous even toward Akane and Kanon who were younger. Akane once again became self-aware that she was currently holding the leash of her own army and her nervousness increased.

“They are not as confused as we thought and moved quickly huh.”

Kanon said so but, for Akane the report was just as she expected so far.

The main bases of Yamato were <Kagamihara garrison>, <Toyama Garrison>, and <Yokkaichi garrison>, these three places. The objective of the Knight Order’s offense this time was Kagamihara garrison located in the southern part of Gifu prefecture.

What made Kagamihara garrison as the most suitable location to be the offense’s target was not only its short distance from Aichi, there was also the mountain that separated Toyama and Gifu in the east border as the cause. Gifu’s south border―namely Kagamihara was exactly the best location suitable for head-on collision.

Yamato sensed that movement through their spy and summoned their troops from Toyama and Yokkaichi.

The diligent older knight continued his report.

“Around the time we come into contact with the enemy, the other side will surely have finished concentrating their manpower. Also Yamato have burned the town and fields in the direction of our marching. The situation is they are awaiting us in the field they had prepared.”

“So they are not naïve enough to give us one more chance for a surprise attack.”

Anxiety flashed through the expression of the older knight. Akane sensed that anxiety sharply and endeavored to wipe away that anxiety with her act as a commander.

“With their failure in the previous battle, they are excessively fearing a surprise attack right now. Then reversely we are going to take them by surprise by attacking them head-on. A head-on collision is exactly the surprise attack.”

“I don’t intend to doubt our troop skill but, in regards to the other side who concentrated their battle strength, our side’s front-line swordsmen are at the very least inferior in number compared to the enemy. Is it okay to have a frontal fight like this?”

The knight asked. ‘At the very least’, such phrase meant that he asked implicitly in doubt if [was it really true that the Shrine Maidens of the Japanese Mythology were withdrawing from the front line?].

Just before this military operation, they had announced that the Shrine Maidens had withdrawn from Yamato’s troop due to Kazuki’s infiltration mission.

Was it really true that Kazuki had succeeded in his mission. Depending on that, the difference between the two army’s battle strength would greatly change.

Head-on battle—if there was no fear of [surprise attack] in the middle of the battle, it would become a simple battle of quality and number of soldiers. Certainly that was a way of fighting that could be called [no strategy].

“Doing a head-on collision, and then from during that battle you create a [surprise attack], that is what we call [tactics]. While forming [formation] and breaking up our force, we are going to find the weak point from inside the enemy’s formation then we will concentrate our force at that point immediately. [Effective maneuver of breaking up and focusing]…that is something that cannot be done except by soldiers who have extensive training. If it’s about training amount then our side is overwhelmingly superior. This difference in soldier’s training is what will allow us to bring about a surprise attack.”

The older knight opened his eyes wide and dumbfounded.

…Kazuki said that [they had to think over everything from phase zero on how to go about this completely new magic war]. For Akane who was too fixated on common sense, that became a severe reflection.

But on the other hand, she could also sort out which of the methods among the old knowledge that could still be relevant in this era.

To be able to do that was the forte of her who had come this far after piling up a lot of effort.

“They've become excessively alert against surprise attack from their defeat in the previous battle, that they lost sight that what matters the most in a head-on collision is the quality of the soldier. That is the indication of the enemy’s crude tactics command. Rather than the differences of the battlefield, they are using emotion as the base of their decision too much. …Just as arranged, when we arrive at the battlefield they are waiting for us, please form the <horizontal formation>.”

Ahead of their advance’s path, suddenly an open wasteland appeared. Due to large scale attack magic, far from being rubble, it was a wasteland where all the buildings had been thoroughly destroyed into pebbles. The concrete pebbles that were created from destroyed buildings transmitted a man-made texture through the soles of their shoes with crunching sound when stepped.

It was an excessively spacious wasteland where there was no way to work out a clever plan with only a small hill at the far away.

Because there was not even a response of magic power, ambush troop was also impossible.

A battlefield suitable for the naming of [Magic War・Sekigahara] had been created right there.

The 900 soldiers of Japan Knight Order stormed into that battlefield with a horizontal formation in accordance with the previous arrangement before this.

Horizontal formation―it was the most basic practical form of Heaven and Earth Formation.

A unit of knights lined up in a row as the vanguard.

At the rearguard, the unit of Magika Stigma was in waiting.

At the middle, the reserve troop was stationed. The reserve troop’s duty was to immediately plug up gaps that were created in their own side’s formation. On the contrary, if there was gap that was created in the enemy’s formation instead then they were to charge at that opening. Although they were called as reserve but they were the elite unit that was the cornerstone of this tactic. The unit that Akane put there were the students of the Knight Academy who had no qualm at all in taking her command.

Yamato too was forming a similar horizontal formation at the wasteland.

The moment they mutually confirmed that they had come into contact with the enemy, the rear guard Magika Stigmas began to emit blue magic power light while the vanguard swordsmen ran forward while cooperating with each other so there was no disorder in their ranks.

The weak point of horizontal formation was the lack in mobility. If there were Shrine Maidens unit in the enemy rank, they could completely mow down the swordsmen before they clashed with the enemy’s swordsmen due to their quick Drive.

“From the distance, the enemy’s rearguard magician unit―the Shrine Maidens are visibly gathered in plenty enough number though.”

Kanon asked Akane in order to confirm.

“They are fakes.” Akane concluded. She was in the position where she must conclude that in full confidence.

Her spine was freezing. There was nothing else but having faith on Kazuki.

Even among the advancing soldiers there was agitation running through them.

Kanon who was even more popular than Akane yelled “Everyone calm down! It’s okay!!”

While advancing, the signs of the enemy could be seen more clearly.

At the rearguard of Yamato’s army―less than a third of the Shrine Maidens were emitting magic power light.

“Look! Those guys' rearguard is just paper-mache! They are not worth fearing!!”

When Kanon raised her loud voice, the troop’s advance with the knights that went along well with Kanon since a long time as the center livened up straightaway. And then both armies collided head-on.

===Part 3===

Kazuki and his allies ran down the stone steps all at once and challenged the women in black clothes.

“Polish the black steel of heaven o Totsuka no Tsurugi,…release the flash that gouge the storm! This is the Orochi no Aramasa! The descend of tearing limb from limb, Ame-no-Habakiri!!”

Aisu Ikousai chanted as if yelling. Just slightly behind her, Kamimura-san chanted her spell.

“Cloud above the giant snake, in the sky we become the throne of god. The oath of the country’s tutelary god taken in the steel of white clouds…the touted sword is, Ame-no-Murakumo!”

What was in Ikousai’s hand was an eight branches katana, but what was created in Kamimura-san’s hand was a refined Japanese katana with a hilt made from plain wood.

Each of them were the Sacred Treasures that should even be said as the symbol of Susanoo and Amaterasu.

Amaterasu’s white katana seemed to be more fitting to be said as a sword for self-defense rather than a weapon for attacking. The moment she seized that katana, white clouds whirled in a billowing vortex above Kamimura-san’s head.

“{{furigana|Shirakumo no Yoroi|White Clouds Armor}}!” When Kamimura-san roared that, the clouds descended down to Aisu Ikousai and hardened, becoming a smooth white armor.

Similar things were also created for herself and Kazuha-senpai.

“Giving me something like defensive magic…you are just doing needless things! Besides I don’t plan to do anything like fighting together!”

Even while spewing out such abusive words, Ikousai stood in front to bear the full brunt of the enemy attacks.

Contrary to her words, Ikousai as the close-quarter fighter, Kazuha-senpai who was an all-around fighter, and Kamimura-san from the long-range distance, the trio naturally took a balanced action.

“Hel!” One of the black-clothed women summoned the power of Norse Mythology’s goddess of death.

An avatar of a beautiful woman in black clothes with half her body decaying grotesquely appeared.

“Nya, Nyarlathotep!” Among the black-clothed women there was also a black elf taken along―Maya. ''A really small weakened'' tentacle monster’s avatar emerged out.

“Fenrir!”

“{{furigana|Skoll|Sun Wolf}}!”

“{{furigana|Hati|Moon Wolf}}!”

Three black-clothed women made three avatars of wolves appear respectively.

“{{furigana|Vafthrudnir|Knowledge Giant}}!”

“{{furigana|Utgarda-Loki|Whirling Fire Giant}}!”

“{{furigana|Thrivaldi|Three Body Nine Head Giant}}!”

“{{furigana|Thrym|Fortune Giant}}!”

The other four black-clothed women summoned the power of Norse Mythology’s giants one after another.

But there was something Kazuki understood from his experience fighting illegal magicians in Magic War・Okehazama. The illegal magicians certainly had fast chanting speed, but those who could chant high level magic among them were few in number.

The story would be different if those girls were fully taken over but…. Kaya was the only one who could make full use of Loki’s power skillfully, she was still only one of the few exceptions.

If they couldn’t use high level magic, even in the case that they had fast chanting speed, those like Beatrix or Hayashi Shizuka who could use their contracted Diva perfectly were far more formidable opponents.

Of course for the number of the opponents to be nine people was a threat. But Aisu Ikousai, Kazuha-senpai, and Kamimura-san, against those three he didn’t think those nine were a challenge they couldn’t oppose. Ikousai and Kazuha-senpai had evading ability while Kamimura-san was likely to excel in defensive strength. That was why Kazuki left it to those three.

Kazuki dashed in a straight line to Kaya.

Kaya too wished for a one-on-one duel with Kazuki and met his attack.

“Armor Invite!!”

Kaya summoned a Sacred Treasure from a different dimension. *BIKIBIKIBIKI!* Kaya’s surrounding space cracked apart.

“Fiaðrhamr!!”

What appeared from the rip of the space was a pure black robe of feathers. The robe of feathers spread out like wings and made Kaya flew lightly. Kaya who danced in the air chanted a Sacred Treasure summoning even further.

“Weapon Invite!!”

Loki possessed the power to summon various Sacred Treasure and Demon Beast. Surely even if people reworded Norse Mythology as [a mythology of Loki bringing about various things] no one could refute it.

That magic invocation speed far surpassed Kazuki by order of magnitude.

But Kazuki focused his mind on the newly created Magic Dress <Zekorbeni> on his chest. Inside his head the voice of Leme guiding him rang out.

{This Dress can make the contracted Diva of the girl whose positivity level surpass 150 possess the inside of this Dress. Through this Dress you can contact directly with the Diva, become able to use telepathy with them, and also become able to invoke magic with the same speed of those that use Drive.}

Kazuki imagined. This Magic Dress in the form of a pendant will Access with Phoneix through the circuit of his bond with Mio. The image of enormous magic power was flowing inside through that bond.

Phoenix possessed the pendant. And then, Phoenix’s image color that was orange like firelight shined.

Kazuki strongly appealed.

“Come! …{{furigana|Mode・Phoenix|Immortal Bird Dress}}!!”

The orange light of the pendant grew large and enveloped Kazuki.

Kaya who held Burtgang in her hand opened her eyes wide witnessing that light.

“…That’s!? New power!?”

While shining strongly, Zekorbeni in Kazuki’s chest spewed out flame that enveloped Kazuki’s body. The enveloping flame materialized like an armor―and created Phoenix’s original new Magic Dress.

The orange armor responded to Kazuki’s telepathy and it was flickering with light. Right there the consciousness of Phoenix possessed it and he became able to communicate directly with Kazuki’s telepathy.

Turning to that direct circuit, Kazuki made an {{furigana|Order|Phenomenon Demand}}. A Response came right away. Kazuki who was poor at Telepathty needed a long time at Order and Targeting, but this time he could commence Cast in an instant.

“Burn to ash all that you touch…scorching heat of rejection that has no place to go! Self Burning!”

The defensive magic that had short chanting time from the start was invoked almost instantly.

Large flames enveloped Kazuki’s whole body.

He also felt a power up compared to the previous times when he usually chanted this same magic.

Kaya assaulted Kazuki with Burtgang. Kazuki didn’t try to block it with his katana but stopped the attack with the flame on his whole body. The magic power that was residing inside the sword and the flame that was trying to meet the blade were competing with each other.

At the same time Kazuki lengthened the flame to his katana and slashed at Kaya with katana of flame. The [Fiaðrhamr] that covered Kaya’s whole body moved automatically and protected Kaya from the blade.

Kaya’s sword against flame, Kazuki’s sword against feather robe, both were jostling at each other with grinding sounds.

“O immortal bird flying from twilight to dawn, please bestow that wings of hope on my back! Destruction for the sake of rebirth right here…! Blazing Wings!”

Wings of flame spread out in fire from Kazuki’s back. With the largely expanded wings of flame, Kazuki mowed down Kaya.

The jet black feather robe covered Kaya trying to protect her. Kaya, who had turned like a black chrysalis passed through the gigantic wave of flame.

“Kuh!” A voice leaked out from under the feather robe.

The [Fiaðrhamr] was burned down until half of it. At that time―,

“Ku…kukukuku-! It has been a long time huhh! King of Solomon!!”

The Fiaðrhamr that enveloped Kaya was burned down. From there a silhouette of a different person emerged out.

Sickly pallid skin, a male god with long blue hair fluttering behind him—Loki.

Kaya had handed over the control of her body to Loki so he could exercise all his power.

Loki spread out the feather robe that was just barely left as scraps on his back like wings and flew away from Kazuki to take some distance. And then,

“Dragon Invite! …Stampede, pterosaur!!”

The space was ripped, this time three middle-sized pterosaurs flew out from there one after another.

Against the crowd of the flying dragons that flew aiming at him, Kazuki matched the preparation of his attack magic.

“Wings danced what scattered are sparks, trail behind the wind of spiral, become the bullet that gouge life! Flap your wings, whirl up the storm of sparks! {{furigana|Tri Barrett|Consecutive Spiral Flower}}!!”

A level 1 magic that could be invoked with short chanting time, and when its chanting was shortened even further, the magic was naturally attached with the property of [rapid firing]. From the left hand that Kazuki thrust forward, three shots of flame bullets flew at the same time.

The three pterosaurs raised a scream and got shot down.

―It was done with just Phoenix’s attack magic, however it was insufficient.

Kazuki also began to chant a reinforcement magic.

“Kukuku-, interestin’! I’m gonna test how far you can resist!! Dragon Invite! Scatter apart pollution, Fafnir!”

A conspicuously larger rip compared to those that appeared until now was carved largely. From there a giant dragon with scales that shined vibrantly in emerald green flew out like it was tumbling down.

The six armed poison dragon came swinging its giant poisonous claw at Kazuki. Kazuki flapped his flame wings, evaded and counterattacked with a flame sword.

While performing offense and defense, he accomplished his spell.

“Lightning fall on my body and earn the lightning thought god speed…wake up the sleeping lion! Ride Lightning!”

It took time, but it didn’t mean that he became unable to use magic other than Phoenix’s.

A magic that elevated his physical ability electrifyingly―with flame sword that had its power and speed increased, Kazuki hacked the Fafnir into pieces.

Fafnir spent its strength and its body that was created from magic power crumbled apart and vanished.

“Here, your second helping! …Dragon Invite! Drown out the light, Niddhogg!!”

Along with Loki’s screwing around words, what next came out from the rip was a black dragon.

This thing would just regenerate its wound if it was attacked normally, death couldn’t bring about at it.

Even so Kazuki wielded the flame sword against the black dragon. Even though in the end its wound would regenerate without a doubt with its resurrection power, it didn’t mean that it could make the damage it got into zero in an instant.

The time when he fought the God’s reliant together with Yatagarasu became a hint. The moment he made the Niddhogg bore countless wounds and shaved off its strength exceedingly, Kazuki invoked that.

It was a magic in the class that was very hard to chant if he tried to do it normally in a real battle.

“O bird of paradise where the light of the heaven reside on that body, respond on my accusation burn away the sins above the ground! Israel Judgment!!”

Aurora shone on Kazuki’s back. That light was fired as a huge laser.

The Nidhogg was swallowed inside the light, its body was peeled off and becoming worn-out.

Light element―the death dragon that was weak against that element couldn’t exhibit its regeneration ability against such an attack.

Loki laughed as if praising Kazuki’s strenuous fight.

“Kukuku! So you can do it!”

“Kaya-sama…Loki-sama!!”

At that time the ground welled up and burst out, from there the upper body of a man protruded out.

“Midgardsorm…what business do you have?”

Loki looked down from the sky.

The illegal magicians that was contracted with Midgardsorm and owned another name of [Earth Snake] had been defeated in the previous battle and made prisoner. But Midgardsorm that was possessing that Earth Snake had already escaped from his body.

And then the time when Hayashi Shizuka was still in good health, Midgardsomr surely had already possessed the body of another man.

That man who just appeared right now reported to Loki with an expressionless reptilian flat face.

“…The Knight Order of Japan came attacking. A lot of the Shrine Maidens and those Japanese Mythology’s bunches are retreating, the camp of Yamato is in great pandemonium. Urgent, they asked you to return back and appeal those Divas…”

{Fufufu, no way♪}

Kaya’s voice echoed around as if the air in their surrounding was vibrating.

“The princess has said so already. My bad, even without the Shrine Maidens the number should be still somewhat even, so tell those politicians to hold out somehow. Kukuku!”

Loki laughed amusedly.

The new Earth Snake nodded his head expressionlessly and went back inside the ground again.

“I see…so you have already let out the signal. The Authority of Solomon King that draws out the power of the comrade that you had formed a circuit of bond with…it’s not really strange then if you can use that to exchange conversation from long distance with that eehh. That’s a power you never used until now…you have grown huh.”

“You are okay just leaving Sekigahara alone?”

Kazuki questioned. Looking at how Loki was not really disturbed with the course of events made Kazuki as the one that felt agitated instead.

This guy…is he fine with what’s happening?

{…I, want to see Onii-chan’s strength more.}

Kaya’s voice rang out enthusiastically.

{C’mon show it more! That power that Onii-chan just got your hands on!!}

“That’s so huh…something like a war over there ''ain’t really that important''.”

…These guys!

They had already caused turmoil until this far and yet were they saying that it really didn’t matter whatever happened with Yamato!?

“Kukuku, let’s keep going! It’s going to end with this if you are still the same brat from before…show me your stuff as the person that princess is looking for-! Weapon Invite!!”

The space at Loki’s hand ripped, from there a large blue transparent sword appeared.

Loki grasped it tightly―and immediately swung it down.

“I’ll show you the essence of divine sword…{{furigana|Lævateinn|World Bisection Sword}}!!”

That was the attack that once made Kazuki lose Mio.

The swung down sword blade *ZUBAAAAAAAAA!* surged out blue shockwave.

This sword wave would follow no matter where he escaped, it brought about fatal destructive power with just one attack. Kazuki had known that already.

“O divine protection of military man, double the Megin whirling in my body! O the will of god spurring me to endless battle, in this body! …Meginjord!”

Kazuki further magnified his physical strength.

And then as if shaking off Loki’s line of sight, Kazuki moved instantly.

“…Wha-! Fast!?”

This was not merely a pure speed. Kazuki imagined Kanae and Ikousai’s movement in his heart.

From a blind spot―to another blind spot.

Kazuki erased his own figure from Loki’s field of vision.

Kazuki agilely circled behind the dumbfounded Loki with his wings of flame.

He took hold of Loki’s both shoulders who was in the posture of swinging down the large sword and pinioned him from behind.

“What the-! You bastard, you want to make me a shield!? The great god, this me into a shield!!”

With his posture still restricted from being pinioned Loki rattled his right hand, with one hand he swung Levateinn. Even with imperfect form a shockwave was produced from that and both shockwaves clashed with each other. They counterbalanced―no, the shockwave that couldn’t be counterbalanced hit Loki directly from the front.

<nowiki>*</nowiki>GARIGARIGARI!* The backlash of Loki’s vast magic power being scraped off was also transmitted to Kazuki.

“You, bastard, how dare you make a damned conduct like this!!”

Loki converted that vast magic power of Diva into pure physical strength reinforcement and forcefully escaped from Kazuki’s pinioning.

He flew away from Kazuki and fixed his stance.

That magic power of his was still going strong very well and overpowering. Kazuki really couldn’t sense any damage on Loki.

“Ku, kukuku! …You really got me. Then this time I’m going to break you personally!”

The space at Loki’s hand distorted―from there a form that he had remembered seeing before appeared.

In proportion with its hugeness, only its hilt was bizarrely short, a characteristic hammer.

“Weapon Invite!! Bless the life, Mjolnir!! Now-! What are you going to do!?”

That was the strongest weapon of the Norse Mythology that was Thor’s favorite.

So Loki could summon things even up to this weapon that should be said as the synonym of Thor.

But if he thought back, the one who brought about this weapon to Thor in the myth was also Loki.

Mjolnir―this steel hammer that produced terrific [destruction power field] from its striking part couldn’t be parried or dodged just by superficial reinforcement magic.

Then with defensive magic…?

Loki brandished Mjolnir and approached Kazuki. Loki’s martial art was inferior, but that enormous magic power of his reinforced his physical ability. And from the beginning this steel hammer didn’t need any complicated martial art. Just by swinging it down would burst and scatter everything in its surrounding.

Kazuki’s strong point was in magic the opponent’s attack’s element and contained it with defensive magic, but in regards to pure physical element he didn’t have any effective option other than Lotte’s [Seusenhofer].

But with just that degree of defense it was nothing more than a mere consolation in front of Mjolnir’s overwhelming destruction power, Kazuki had experienced it himself before.

A method to defend against this attack with defense was…nonexistent.

“Soaring wings, glaring eyes, invading world-destroying conflagration―manifest the authority of god here, as the agent of civilization I will advance deeply and deeply! Deep Striker!!”

Kazuki summoned the armament for the sake of charging on his back.

He couldn’t defend. Then do the opposite.

Kazuki’s mental power that was magnified due to [Ride Lightning] lit the fire in the magic thruster unit. He faced Loki who raised the hammer overhead and ''instead charged forward''.

“Against a physical shockwave…just offset it with an equal physical shockwave!!!!”

Due to the effect of Kazuki’s reinforcement magic, the [Deep Striker] accelerated passed the limit. Together with an ultimate acceleration he stabbed his magic sword that had been reinforced with [Meginjord]. That was the greatest attack power that Kazuki could possibly exhibit at this moment.

Grinding his teeth, Kazuki charged. This was reckless but there was no other option.

“Are you sane, bastardd-!!”

Against Kazuki’s charge that didn’t think of any consequence ahead, Loki raised a shuddering yell of fear.

…If he kept this then it wouldn’t end with just a light damage even for Loki.

The hammer that possessed the destructive power that even distorted the space, and the charge of a huge mass with sound surpassing speed, clashed with each other with irregular sounds as if the laws of physics were crumbling down.

===Part 4===

The <hit-and-run attacker> Lotte dashed through the sky above the battlefield using [Deep Striker].

The few numbered Shrine Maidens tried to shot Lotte down by letting fly firing magic. While running away from those with high speed mobility, Lotte grasped the magic power movement of the battlefield with her goggle-type enemy searching unit.

Where, what kind of magic power sprang forth, what was going to happen in the next moment at the battlefield.

In addition to Lotte’s prodigious Telepathy magic, she could also read the atmosphere of the battlefield.

Lotte’s [eye of the sky] looked down on the battlefield.

The role that Lotte was trying to accomplish was something like what weapons like battle helicopter were accomplishing in the past. The Magika Stigma Lotte who possessed similar power with modern weapons was able to revive the tactics of the past in this current era.

What Lotte did was observing with caution was the outbreak timing of large scale attack magic―was not all there was to it.

What was more important was [the formation distortion created from formation and formation clashing against each other].

“Swordsman platoon 17 and 18 are in disadvantage! Send the reserve force!!”

All the units were assigned with number.

When Lotte detected a seam that came apart in the battle line, she contacted Akane with a wireless device. Akane then quickly responded with making instructions and maintained the defensive power of the horizontal formation solidly.

On the other hand―

“The enemy in front of swordsmen platoon 32 is retreating! The enemy’s horizontal formation is dented!!”

Lotte made her report after discovering the hole in the enemy’s formation.

Dispersing and concentrating―clashing with each other with the states of both troops mutually dispersed, then concentrated one’s own battle strength at the seam that opened in the enemy formation, destroyed the formation and broke through―that was tactic.

“Platoon 31, 32, 33, form <bullet formation>!!”

Akane ordered without delay. For the knights they had the experience to be able to respond immediately to that command.

That was a strong point that the young swordsmen of Yamato didn’t have.

Bullet formation―the battle formation that built the core of [blitzkrieg tactic] that German army thought of in World War 2.

The platoon 32 that hit the seam in enemy’s formation from the front had platoon 31 and 33 sent in their elite members from both side, making the battle strength of platoon 32 heavier temporarily. Platoon 32 who concentrated their battle strength charged the seam of enemy formation with force like a bullet and opened a hole in that wall.

From both side of platoon 32 who turned into an elite force, platoon 31 and 33 blocked the enemies that tried to plug that hole with all their strength from the side and preserved the hole in the formation.

At this time the three platoons that received Akane’s direction formed a shape like a tip of an arrow that protruded into the center, piercing the enemy’s horizontal formation.

Now that it had become like this it might be more fitting to be called <wedge> rather than a bullet. Just opening a hole couldn’t be said as breaking through. What was needed next was mobility.

Even the enemy possessed the reserve troop to immediately plug up the hole when one was opened in their formation. Platoon 32 that opened the hole was immediately becoming driven into the verge of total annihilation when receiving the counterattack.

“Assault squad, follow up the thirty third!”

Akane called for the turn of the squad that specialized in mobility among the reserve troops.

“Thunder fall on my body obtaining lightning thought god speed…wake up the sleeping lion! Ride Lightning!”

Hoshikaze Hikaru who reinforced the physical ability of her whole body stood at the head of that squad holding a Sacred Treasure pike in her hand.

“Hyahha―! We live in accordance of Hodur’s wish, I too entrust my body once more in the exaltation of battle! The violent emotion wartime fire running in the blood and fat of my sword!! Stories Flame!”

While brandishing sword of flame, the Einherjar that loved melee battle Damian also went along with them.

“O Astaroth that commiserate with the sin of the foolish! For the purpose of being the agent of your indictment, please lend me thy servant the mounted beast!! Trampling Drake!!”

Mibu Akira summoned a giant lizard―mounted beast summoning magic. The very instant Akira mounted the lizard, the lizard was inducted with Mibu Akira’s individuality and transformed into a huge armored car.

“The loyal servant of Lucifer, o Gamigyn! Please lend me that symbol of loyalty thy swift horse!! Gallop Racer!!”

Simultaneously Asamiya Anna who was Akira’s protégée too summoned a riding horse with fluttering flaming mane. When Anna mounted it just as expected it similarly transformed into a large type bike.

The armored car and the large type bike resounded the characteristic music of biker gang [PARARIRAPARARIRA♪] in the battlefield and rushed forward.

After platoon 31, 32, and 33 drilled a hole in the enemy formation they were desperately maintaining that hole from being closed by the enemy. During that time a squad composed of Magika Stigmas that possessed both mobility and offense power charged ahead in one go. Their speed far surpassed the reaction time of Yamato’s soldiers who had shallow experience.

The assault squad with Hoshikaze Hikaru as the leader immediately moved into <breakthrough maneuver>. They charged the Shrine Maidens and illegal magicians that were casting Summoning Magic in the rear guard. The enemy formation was shredded into pieces from the inside.

This was exactly a surprise attack of a head-on collision.

Of course, that it could go well until this far was because Kazuki had reduced the number of Yamato’s Shrine Maidens sharply with his infiltration operation. If it was like usual then attack magic would rain down on the swordsmen squad like a bullet wave due to the Shrine Maiden’s {{furigana|Drive|Possession Contract}}, making a proper tactical action impossible.

However right now Japan’s swordsmen squad was liberated from the threat of Shrine Maidens and they clearly displayed the difference in power between them and the swordsmen of Yamato who were suddenly only composed of conscripted soldiers.

The one who became the cornerstone of this fast tactic were the experienced veteran knights and the hit-and-run attacker Lotte. However this pair were originally people that should be incompatible.

For Charlotte Liebenfrau who legally was still an [illegal magician] to participate in this major battle, Regimental Commander Yamagata and the veteran knights were in opposition at first.

However with Akane’s persuasion and the plan’s proposition, they had no choice but to recognize that the country’s policy until now was not the right thing. Lotte displayed her function as the cornerstone of the tactic splendidly in the battlefield.

The one who first saw through Lotte’s suitability for the role of hit-and-run attacker was Kazuki.

Then Akane included her into an existing tactic from previous era and persuaded many people.

Lotte whose body hosted <the god of civilization> Prometheus was more fitting to be called convenient rather than powerful. If people were asked the essence of civilization then without a doubt it was [convenience]. It was one of the aspects that had the most affinity with war.

Kazuki’s creativity made [Magic War・Okehazama] succeed.

And then in this battlefield, [Magic War・Sekigahara], people could say that it was Akane’s knowledge which sublimed Kazuki’s creativity into something resembling a tactic.

The balance of the battle had greatly tilted, toward the direction of Japan’s overwhelming superiority.

When Akane self-evaluated the excellence of her own command, she couldn’t say that she had done well no matter what.

Even so hearing the battle cries resounded from a completed tactic felt really pleasant in her ear due to her own profoundness.

===Part 5===

“You, you really just did something outrageous…kukuku! What a messed up King…!!”

With the clash of gigantic energy in the sky, Kazuki and Loki were both blown away together for few dozens meter. Loki stood up while laughing.

Kazuki didn’t have any composure to do something like trying to protect Ise Imperial Shrine, but it was fortunate that the attack unfolded at the sky above the forest of the Imperial Shrine.

The damage was heavy in Kazuki’s side. However he was safe somehow.

Kazuki too stood up and faced Loki. He could sense the sounds of the others fighting far away.

“Finally you’ve risen to the stage where you can fight with a materialized Diva huh, you bastard.”

Loki said that, praising Kazuki. Between the two who were facing each other, Kaya’s voice echoed.

{Loki…more…}

“I don’ really mind but, more than this and one of us is gonna die y’know. It’s likely the other side though.”

Kazuki was out of breath from his disordered magic power. The offense and defense between them were even—that was how it looked like but, the consumption of magic power was evidently intense at Kazuki’s side. That was because his fundamental magic power's total amount, and also because of the fatigue from fighting continuously since he arrived in Ise for a long time.

And then <Zekorbeni>. Certainly chanting became easier but—from the magic power that poured into his circuit that became shorter and wider without stopping, he felt that his magic power consumption was even more severe than before.

…If they continued more than this then he had to think about their way to escape. If he used [Ride Lightning] and [Deep Striker] together to escape, Loki shouldn’t have any method to pursue such speed.

“We’ve confirmed Solomon King’s growth enough! Ku-ku-ku, you guys, we’re retreating now!”

Suddenly Loki said those words that was outside of Kazuki’s expectation who right now was contriving a method to escape.

…The one who is going to retreat is these guys’ side?

The black-clothed girls who were fighting inside the compound of Ise Imperial Shrine instantly gathered below Loki.

Kazuha-senpai and Kamimura-san, also Ikousai who were fighting them gathered under Kazuki.

The black-clothed women and Kamimura-san still had a composed expression but Kazuha-senpai and Ikousai who had fought continuously was in a state of deep distress.

“Hmph, are you guys protected by Amaterasu? Even rotten, she is still a chief god huh.”

Loki said in dissatisfaction.

“Japanese Mythology’s group becomes all the more troublesome, so it’s better to just kill you off here though.”

Loki and his group headed to the entrance of Ise Imperial Shrine and turned on their heel.

“Kaya!”

Kazuki asked a question.

“Why didn’t you fight to the end…and try to kill me?”

At that time, Kazuki and Kaya should have already said their farewell.

If Kaya intended to be hostile to Kazuki, then she ought to kill Kazuki here without fail.

If inside Kaya there was still a feeling of wanting to see Kazuki….

{That’s not it, Onii-chan.}

As if betraying Kazuki’s thought, a cold voice echoed.

{Onii-chan is…onii-chan too is a cog of even more chaos. Today we just want to confirm the strength of the completed cog, that’s all. Onii-chan’s speed in raising bond and Loki’s speed in laying out scheme are equal. Our cogs are perfectly in sync with each other. That’s why chaos will be born from that. Right now things like win or loss is just unnecessary.}

After Kaya’s words, Loki was looking back at him.

“For the last, for you who now have the air of becoming a competent tactician, this trickster-sama will give you an advice. …Compared to guys who are only chasing for just one correct interpretation or essence, the guys that can lead everyone around by the nose and make things interesting no matter what roll his way is exactly the most awesome guy! Ku-ku-ku! See ya!!”

―Essence and leading around. That contrast made a greatly perturbed sensation in Kazuki’s chest, it was freezing.

With just that one sentence, an indescribable feeling of failure assaulted him.

Kazuki and his group saw off Loki’s group leaving.

“…What do you plan to do, Ikousai?”

Kazuki took a glance at Ikousai.

“What am I going to do you ask? You guys have no business at all with what I’m going to do. I’m going back to Kenshitou. …But I’m going to kill those guys without exception. After that is you. I’m also going to take back the seat of the strongest from you without fail. I’ll plunder the seat of the King of Japanese Mythology…then I’m going to plunder the power of all the Kings in the world.”

She looked exhausted, but a glaring light was still remaining in her eyes while Ikousai told him that. And then she disassembled her Magic Dress and returned to her kimono appearance before she turned her back at Kazuki and left.

The girl was an upper echelon of Kenshitou. As the strongest swordsman, in a certain meaning she should be also a symbolic existence. That girl held opposition against Loki. Moreover there, the Japanese Divas that Yamato held as their flag draw their cooperation from Yamato all at once, even more when they suffered a great defeat in Sekigahara….

With this, wouldn’t Yamato’s provisional government crumble down in tatters already?

But, Loki and Kaya’s state that was as if they were saying that they didn’t mind even if that did happen….

{The guys that can lead everyone around by the nose and make things interesting no matter what roll his way is exactly the most awesome guy.}

“…I have a bad premonition. Everyone, let’s hurry back to Japan’s territory.”

===Part 6===

The enemy’s horizontal formation was falling apart and scattered from each other. Akane was convinced in their victory.

“That Akane, when she can move things just as planned is absurdly strong after all! You are weak when something unexpected happens though!”

Kanon laughed brightly at the side.

That was a comment of someone that really knew her best. Akane didn’t object and returned a wry smile.

In the end, there was no soldier of Yamato that could reach the stronghold where the two were located. The two girls weren’t exposed to any kind of threat at all and everything was finished with just exchanging contact with the troops using software wireless device. The troops of Yamato were still struggling in vain but it was only a matter of time before they began to retreat. Of course Japan’s troops were taking prisoners as many as they could, they had to aim for the enemy’s total annihilation.

…Any time now they could relax their attention without any worry. Even Akane thought so.

Exactly at that time.

Akane’s software wireless device received a transmission from the channel that was specially assigned for Lotte.

{Akane-senpai…enemy’s reinforcement desu! There are a lot of magic power reaction coming with great speed!}

“………eh?”

Akane opened her eyes wide, she froze fully around thirty seconds. Kanon who saw her state sensed that something outside expectation was happening and stole Akane’s wireless before yelling.

“From which direction, around how many enemy!?”

{Their number is unknown but, I think it’s more than 50 desu! The direction is, from north!}

“North!? Wait a second, just what kind of speed they have!? It’s not like there is rail for magic light train spread out there right!?”

Even from where Kanon was standing, she could see raising sand smoke from far beyond the distance. Something dashing here while scattering sand smoke was approaching near while its form that looked like a small dot was gradually growing bigger.

{Horse-sa<ref>Lotte is about to call a horse as horse-san here. Usually kid in Japan add honorifics in animal name when they are excited.</ref>…it’s horse desu! They are riding horses and getting closer here!!}

Yamato’s troops artificially created the wasteland of Sekigahara.

On the top of the towering far small hill there, those silhouettes were faintly emerging.

Cavalry―rather than calling them that, they looked somewhat rustic. They were wearing yellow bandanas on their head altogether. Rather than calling them cavalry their appearance made it easier to associate them with <mounted bandit>.

Japanese knights were agitated.

Right there, a vigorous loud voice resounded as if a cannon had been fired.

“…Listen to the gracious au'''gust'''<ref>This bolded words is marking their broken pronunciation. In the raw novel, the author used katakana for the end of the sentence instead of hiragana to impress that the person talking here sounds a little choppy, I use bolded words here to imitate the author.</ref> words of the Emperor! We will announce this to friend and the savage tribe of barbari'''an'''!!”

It was a Japanese language with a somewhat broken pronunciation. For the Japanese people of the current era who almost had no chance at all to come into contact with the existence known as foreigners, this granted them the fear like someone who was encountering a strange war machine.

The one who stood in the head of the mounted bandits like a leader raised a loud voice even more.

“[Tis’ no problem]<ref>This is like the catch phrase of Fu Zi</ref>!! We bestow'''ed''' to you the august words of the Emperor!! [Tis’ no problem] the Emperor '''said'''!! Graciously our Emperor had her noble heart pain'''ed''' for these xiǎo rìběn<ref>Chinese words. Quite a derogatory way of calling Japanese person</ref> whose true culture stol'''en''' by these demons of Solomon, and then to help our friend…Yamato’s provisional government from its unfavorable situati'''on''', our Emperor gave her consideration even without being called, the august Emperor pushed her overworked body pondered in plenty for a full thirteen seconds before bestowing us [the Emperor’s directly controlled squad] her prompt decision '''to''' dispatch us!! Surely '''that''' vast compassion, is exactly the spirit of China! O those who are our friend, you '''had''' better listen to this gospel! Thy peoples of savage tribe, you '''can''' be grateful for this honor of our hand reaching to you in assistance! We will make know'''n''' the generous heart of China here…[tis’ no problem]!!”

The mounted bandits atop the small hill altogether “Tis’ no problem!” “Tis’ no problem!” cheered in chorus with mechanical pronunciation. For the Knight Order of Japan their appearance was just absolutely bizarre.

The mounted bandits yelled “Tis’ no problem!” while driving their horses forward, they simultaneously dashed down the hill.

Their speed was unbelievably fast.

“If the opponents are horse then…Lotte! Get near and rout the enemy!!”

Kanon replaced Akane and made the decision, she yelled into the wireless. Lotte burned out fire from [Deep Striker]’s thruster system and took off with an explosive force. She was immediately nearing the enemy and let loose a volley of gatling bullet from the sky. Its power was low as an attack magic, but it was an overkill fire power just to slaughter all the horses altogether.

“Nnn…tis’ no problem!” “Mere child’s play! Tis’ no problem!!” “Tis’ no problem!!”

The mounted bandits yelled as if welcoming the bullets. They didn’t take any single evasive action.

The bullets hit the horses―right that instant, the horses were enveloped with pure blue light *PAKIPAKIPAKIPAKI!* and repelled away the wild rain of bullets.

The mounted bandits raised their yelling voice while they kept charging without paying any heed to the gatling gun.

“The horses have magic power…!?” Akane who had petrified for a while already returned to her senses and yelled.

“…That’s not it! That’s…they are making their Enchant Aura extended until the horses! It works the same like magic sword’s mechanism!!”

For swordsmen who had piled up training, their beloved sword became something like a part of their body and the magic power that enveloped their whole body naturally became extended until the body of the sword. That was magic sword. Long range weapon like arrow and bullet couldn’t be bestowed with magic power like this but this phenomenon was the one and only reason that the swordsmen could display battle strength that stood equal with Magika Stigma in this era of magic.

Most likely these horses had the same theory applied to them. These bandits ate and slept along with their horses, earnestly piling up training of horsemanship—there was no mistake that they had reached the mental state of <Unity of rider and horse>.

Magic Cavalry―such concept was completely inexistent for Japan’s Knight Order. Hayashizaki too had pointed out the importance of mobility to Akane before but, seeing that how things like car from the tool of civilization was useless in battle of magic, she had only ever thought of mobility limited from means of Summoning Magic.

Magic power drove out science from the battlefield. If so then—how about horses. It was an idea that returned back to the age of heroes of their ancestor’s time.

At the wars that happened in the middle age, when armed forces who fought only with infantry faced a cavalry troops for the first time, how much an impact they experienced. At that time the form of war ought to be toppled over completely.

The shock of that time was once more manifested in the magic war of this era.

Akane was once again made to taste how the outlook of war tactics inside her was being overturned.

With her gatling fire ended futilely, Lotte who failed in her role as a scout made a U-turn in the sky so she didn’t receive counterattack from the enemy.

Without even paying attention to that as if it was just a small bird, the bandits formed a long formation of two verticals line while charging. Witnessing that, Akane immediately yelled.

“That’s…<vertical formation>! Everyone, put your formation in order and intercept!!”

Vertical Formation—in contrast with the most basic war formation of horizontal formation, it was a formation that formed a vertical line and charged in perpendicular. It excelled in penetrating power and easy for the troops to match their speed with their comrades so this formation possessed speed several times faster than horizontal formation.

However there was a large weak point in vertical formation. When vertical formation thrust into horizontal formation, the soldier in the head of the formation would be surrounded from the front and received attacks from left and right. Even if their mobility and penetrating power were excellent, the table would undoubtedly be turned back to them if they didn’t have a considerable surprise at their side, a double-edged formation.

“Surround them and intercept!!” Akane barely recovered her accurate judgment.

The bandits that dashed here from the small hill in one straight line averted the awareness of Japan’s Knight Order from the wounded Yamato soldiers. They formed a wall in the front and met the enemy.

The figures of the mounted bandits that descended down from the hill soon became obscured from where Akane and the others were standing in the headquarters because of the wall that their comrades formed. But from the other side of the wall, sounds and voices reverberated.

“For the sake of our Lord, sever the turbulent era with this hand…thy name is <Kansei Teikun><ref>Guan Yu</ref>! Highly honorable Green Dragon Crescent Blade in hand, show that chivalry!!”

“Violent person born from the hermit stone of Flower and Fruit Mountain, thy name feared even by heaven is <Seiten Taisei><ref>Sun Wukong</ref>! Unrestricted Nyoibou<ref>Tried to search this in google and what I found instead is Goku’s staff from Dragon Ball instead. [Editor: This would be the Ruyi Jingu Bang, the magical staff of Sun Wukong. Nyoibou(如意棒) comes from Ruyi Jingu Bang(如意金箍棒)][EDIT 2: After all, Dragon Ball was in its origins based on Journey to the West and Son Gokuh on Sun Wukong]</ref> in hand, display a very thrilling active role!!”

Continuous sign of Access―Chinese Mythology. Once again Akane’s head became pure white.

…These guys are reinforcement army from China! The connection between Yamato and China had been sensed from the case of Hayashi Shizuka and the spy but, don’t tell me they are going to intervene so brazenly like this on another country’s domestic matter!

These guys were invited by Yamato and crossed over the Japan Sea to come here!

<Kansei Teikun> and <Seiten Taisei>. Akane who was always top in her year at mythology test naturally knew the name of these Diva.

But generally rather than their name as gods, their other names were surely far more overwhelmingly famous.

The mounted bandits and the swordsmen finally clashed.

The two who stood at the head of the bandits yelled while invoking their magic.

“My contracted Diva is Kansei Teikun! If you don’t want to suffer pointless'''ly''', open the path at '''once'''!! …Guiding the divine will o Azure Dragon, cut open the path of faith with the inside of my hand! {{furigana|Seiryuu Engetsu Tou|Green Dragon Crescent Blade}}!!”

“My contracted Diva is Son Goku! Japanese monkey is insufficient actor, open the path!! …Grasping the leading part is possible! O divine rare steel holding infinite mass, hand down the single attack with certain death to all evil! {{furigana|Nyoikinkobou|Wishes Golden Barrel Pole}}!”

Akane and the others couldn’t examine the state of that clash from the headquarters. But they knew that the horizontal formation was shaking like an undulating wave even from behind.

The sounds of blade and blade clashing―didn’t reach their ears at all. Only screaming was reverberating.

“Monster!!”

“Hi, he blew away a platoon altogether just with one swing…!! That’s…!!”

“Stopping something like this…they are breaking through!”

The frontline swordsmen in front of Akane were blown away, then from that crack as if Moses was splitting the sea, the two bandits from the head leaped out.

It was easy to turn the table on vertical formation―that was the story only if there was no hero leading them in the head. In this era of magic war, individuals that were a match for a thousand existed. Akane was once more made to realize that.

That was the limit of tactics.

The mounted bandits’ vertical formation broke the horizontal formation into two right in the middle and moved into [breakthrough maneuver]. They spread out as fast as the command given and attacked the Magika Stigmas in the rear who had lost the protection of the horizontal formation frontline swordsmen. Losing the reserve deployment power and control, the fighting back to hold that spot began.

The two mounted bandits who ran in the head of the formation immediately came approaching the headquarters of Akane and Kanon.

Both of them stopped their horses completely right in front of Akane and Kanon. The horses fast rush splendidly stopped as if they were communicating telepathically with their rider.

One of them held what was called as naginata in Japan with its blade part attached with a thick and heavy long, two handed sword―Seiryuu Engetsu Tou in her hand. Even while being a female the holder was a military soldier with a big build to the degree that it made the horse she rides look small.

She was wearing a Magic Dress of green colored clothes.

The other person was holding a mysterious golden pole with two golden rings adorning both its ends―a divine mysterious steel pole in one hand. The holder was a male that was extremely rare as Magika Stigma, but his age too was still looked like a young boy.

His face was painted white while wearing a Magic Dress of golden chainmail.

“Catching sight of the command'''er'''’s neck. For the sake of ending this battle speedi'''ly''', I’ll receive that life of '''yours'''.”

The military woman with large build thrust her Souryuu Engetsu Tou and announced gravely.

“I don’t mind even if you resist cause it’s more interesting that way ze.”

The young boy with small build thrust his pole of divine mysterious steel and smiled complacently.

Akane who was weak in unexpected situation froze. To cover for Akane, Kanon stood in front of her, but she too was a type that could only display her true worth when she was protected by the vanguard.

In front of the heroes of China, the young two commanding officers had their everything taken away already and their spines felt cold.

===Part 7===

Strangely Kazuki was not surprised and understood in no time at all. …This is the troops of China.

While carrying Kazuha-senpai and Kamimura-san at both sides, Kazuki traversed through the sky using [Deep Striker]. Reinforcing his eye sight with magic power, he caught the figures of the mounted bandits plunging into the horizontal formation at the battlefield far away.

Right now, if there was an unknown butting in on this battlefield―if he thought back to the sequence of events with Hayashi Shizuka then there was nobody else that could be here except Chukadou.

He could see a duo of mounted bandits rushing through to figures that looked like Akane-senpai and Kanon-senpai.

“Kazuki! Hurry, they are in danger so hurry-!”

Kazuha-senpai who was being carried in Kazuki’s right arm yelled animatedly. However even if he was told to hurry he couldn’t raise the speed of this magic even further. After all Kazuki too was in the same feeling and he had already in his maximum speed.

“Kazuki, after you get closer a little more then just throw me and Kamimura-san! Like missiles!”

“…Eh, you are also going to treat me roughly like that…? Just wai-, high place is scary so…”

Watching Akane-senpai and Kanon-senpai being held in the tips of the weapons of two mounted bandits, Kazuki nodded his head on that proposal so that he could rescue them for even a second faster.

“I understand!”

With Kazuki getting closer from the sky―the two bandits noticed him and looked up his way.

Kazuki calculated the timing and yelled.

“…Kazuha-senpai missile firing!!”

He threw Kazuha-senpai that he held in his right arm with all his strength from the sky. “YOSSHA―!!” Raising an excited voice, Kazuha-senpai flew like a streak of meteor.

“Mikafutsu no Mitama!!”

While flying she created Take Mikadzuchi’s steel sword in her hand. Keeping that momentum―she slashed at the large military woman. That one attack that raised a thunderous roar like a falling lightning was blocked solidly with the long large blade―Seiryuu Engetsu Tou that the military woman raised with both her hands. The Seiryuu Engetsu Tou grasped firmly with both hands shook in clatters. Kazuha-senpai was repelled away and landed on the ground with a hop.

“…An attack like lightning…excellent performance! Is this Japan’s samu'''rai'''…interest'''ing''', I ask you to be my oppo'''nent'''.”

The military woman looked down on Kazuha-senpai, who took a stance with her Mikafutsu no Mitama, from on top the horse.

―Without a moment’s delay Kazuki threw away one more person.

“I’m sorry Kamimura-san but please go…Kamimura-san missile firing!!”

“Why are you doing such heartless thingssssssssssssssssss!?”

This time he was using both his hands, moreover Kamimura-san was light so she was easy to throw.

While becoming teary-eyed, Kamimura-san too flew like a falling star and crashed around in front of the small build young boy bandit. With the backlash from the defensive magic power she bounced away *boing* from the ground.

While bouncing away like a rubber ball, Kamimura-san also invoked her magic.

“…Ringing clear sound o thread of life, resonance with that soul, tied that body and become a barrier! Yasakani no Magatama<ref>The grand jewel or string of jewels; one of the three Imperial regalia</ref>・{{furigana|Yachimon Shibari|Eight Gate Binding}}!”

From Kamimura-san’s hand, a large ring expanded. It was a long ring that went through a lot of magatama<ref>Comma-shaped jewels</ref>.

When the magatama that were went through clattered and clashed with each other raising *chirin!* sounds, that ring suddenly converged inward and restrained the body of the young bandit.

“What’s with this ring! If you want to bind me then you need something like what priest Sanzo’s had ze!”

The restrained young bandit put his strength in an attempt to tear apart the ring. Undauntedly Kamimura-san continued to pour her magic power into the ring of magatama. Power of sealing competed against power of opposing.

They managed to avert the attack toward Akane-senpai and Kanon-senpai just in a hair's breadth.

―Right at that timing Kazuki flew there late. He hardened his charging posture and prepared his Japanese katana then he took a nose dive with [Deep Striker]. He aimed at the young bandit whose movement was sealed, but the large build military woman reacted first.

“KAMIKA'''ZE'''!?”

The nose dive with terrific speed and power was blocked by the military woman with her Seiryuu Engetsu Tou. The instant the Japanese katana and Seiryuu Engetsu Tou came in contact, Kazuki sensed the [element that hosted the power of wind] in the sword blade of Seiryuu Engetsu Tou.

The combination of the military woman’s power, technique, and power of wind surpassed the pressure of Kazuki’s nose dive. She succeeded in blocking Kazuki’s momentum. She diverted the direction of Kazuki’s thrust diagonally and his katana was buried deeply into the ground after having its target slipped away. Blue light of magic power shone from the energy of crashing.

Kazuki cancelled the [Deep Striker] on his back and leaped back while pulling out his katana from the ground.

The large military woman adjusted her slightly disordered stance and glared at Kazuki and Kazuha-senpai.

“Looked down as worthless o great fallen angel, with right eye of rage and left eye of fury crush the light of ostentation! {{furigana|Dead Asset|Divinity Collapse}}!!”

Under the chaotic battle situation, Kanon-senpai was not just being dumbfounded and accomplished her spell chanting.

A beautiful fallen angel with her whole body burning in blue flame―Belial’s avatar emerged out.

While laughing, with a dreadful expression in fury, Belial glared at the Sacred Treasures―Seiryuu Engetsu Tou and Nyoikinkobou that the large military woman and the small young boy held in their hand.

Right that instant, without even a sound the Sacred Treasures disappeared.

That was a magic that annihilated Sacred Treasure that was created from magic power.

Immediately Kazuha-senpai slashed at the military woman with Mikafutsu no Mitama. The military woman that was struck with surprise attack was hard pressed to react and received that one blow. “…'''guhh '''!?” She raised her voice and that large body was reeling.

Running off while her horse neighed, she took some distance from Kazuha-senpai.

Kazuki looked over his surrounding. Akane-senpai was rescued, but right now everywhere in Japan’s formation horse neighing and hoof steps sounded and the soldiers was falling into great pandemonium.

For the other mounted bandits to not come near here, was surely because they held faith in these two people who seemed to be their leaders that even with unexpected intruders appearing their leaders would be fine.

“Communicate your heart to god, fill the mind shell to my Genshin<ref>This should mean soul. Seems like this is some phrase for China. The original kanji is元神. Chinese reader, if your recognize this feel free to edit.</ref>! Learning Buddhist teaching the rock monkey carry the ecstasy to the extremes right here, invite the haughty great man! Houten Shouchi<ref>Journey to the West in magic name</ref>・{{furigana| Sanmen Roppi|Three Heads Six Arms}}!!”

The small body of the young bandit that was restrained by Kamimura-san’s ring was overlapped with a giant avatar that looked half transparent. That avatar gradually began to materialize and pushing open persistently the restraining ring.

The giant spread its six arms radially and finally tore apart the binding spell with a snapping sound.

“We are going, Sanmen Roppi’s specialty is exactly this kind of thing!”

The half-transparent giant that enveloped the young boy owned three faces, those three faces glared angrily at Kazuha-senpai, Kamimura-san, and Kanon-senpai. It swung its long six arms around like a storm and bashed those three people. Kazuha-senpai who had the knowledge of martial arts dodged it somehow, but Kamimura-san and Kanon-senpai were bashed away by the giant.

{―Even more magic power is approaching desu!}

Lotte’s voice rang out from the wireless of Akane-senpai who was standing stock still dumbfounded.

“…There is still more additional reinforcement coming from China you say!?”

Kanon-senpai who was bashed away by the young boy stood up while raising a yell.

“'''Muu'''…don’t tell me those bunches are coming al'''ong'''!?”

But the one who became agitated was not only Kazuki, for some reason the large military woman was also shaken.

<nowiki>*</nowiki>DODODODODO!* From far away sand cloud was rising up and the sounds of horse’s hoofs became audible.

And then something was rushing here from the same route where the mounted bandits arrived before from beyond the small hill.

That figure was—again different from the mounted bandits that came before.

All the members were wearing matching sleeveless undergarment that was pure black from up to down, it was a jet black group.

“There is no righteousness of Taoism in Chukadou!”

The jet black cavalry raised such voice.

“For the order of Asia, we of <Ryouzanpaku<ref>Place of assemblage for the bold and ambitious </ref>> is reinforcing Japan!”

The group of black knight shined blue magic power light while barging into the battlefield. The mounted bandits left the knights of Japan as is and showed movement of going to intercept the black knight.

Japan and Yamato, and then mounted bandit and black group―for two wars to be exchanged in one battlefield….

“O emissary of heaven’s decree, let’s announce right now the end of the era of heaven’s decree! Thy name is <Taikoubou>! O sealed move of soul, carve that name!!”

The person in the lead of the black-clothed knights performed Access. Beside her an avatar of an old hermit emerged. Her black clothes disintegrated, transforming into a Magic Dress that looked like a loose clothes of China’s Taoism garment carved with a complex pattern. The one who put on that Magic Dress on her body was a woman with darkish skin.

That hand of hers was wrapped with even more light of magic power.

“Change that soul into stamping out whip of god! Awaken the surge of genshin’s disturbance right here…{{furigana|Dashinben|Gods Hitting Whip}}!”

What was created from the light and grasped was around a one meter long pole of plain wood.

Just with a glance it didn’t look like a powerful weapon. But when she directed it to an empty space and swung it, something like an undulating shockwave was created. That wave motion spread out far and wide in the battlefield.

When the wave motion transmitted until where Kazuki was, Kazuki felt the sensation like his head had gotten hit with a thump. At the same time the spell that he was in the middle of chanting dispersed completely from the vibration.

That happened not only to Kazuki. It seemed that all the Magika Stigmas around him were going through something similar with him―a Sacred Treasure that disturbed spell chanting without questioning whether one was ally or enemy. Just like Nyarlathotep’s magic.

But for Kazuki and the others that was not a bad effect. When the Summoning Magic of the bandits were chanting dispersed, the swordsmen who were kept done in one-sidedly until now didn’t miss that opening and resolutely slashed their katana. Even the avatar of Sanmen Roppi that overlapped with the body of the small young boy undulated in vibration and vanished.

“We are retreat'''ing'''! While we are receiving guidan'''ce''' to Yamato’s base from Yamato’s soldiers, we are going to support the retreat of Yamato as the rear gu'''ard'''!!”

The soldiers of Yamato urged by that voice finally began their retreat. Their rear was protected by the bandit soldiers while the mysterious black-clothed knights who came from behind pursued them.

“Let’s pull back too. Our side’s damage is also really great.”

Kanon-senpai urged Akane-senpai who was still being in a slight shock.

The knights whose formation had collapsed was lost whether they should pursue ahead the retreating troops of Yamato or should they just see them off, they were each in the state of going to take decision by themselves.

“Retreat!” Before that could happen, Akane-senpai let out a clear command.

Yamato’s troops together with the mounted bandits were becoming more distant. The black-clothed knights who were trying to attack while pursuing sensed Japan’s knights’ retreat and returned back this way. With a beautiful two lines vertical formation, the black clothed knight determined that Akane-senpai and Kanon-senpai were the commanding officers and came around this way.

“You all need our reinforcement. Add us in your war front.”

The dark-skinned woman who moved at the head of the group announced with one-sided tone of talking.

“We are the liberator of east Asia, <Ryouzanpaku>. With the [True Daoism] as the first in line, the Mythologies of east Asia were making alliance and opposed the rule of Chukadou―we are the resistance.”

<noinclude>

==Translator's Notes and References==
<references/>

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| Back to [[Magika No Kenshi To Shoukan Maou:Volume 6 Chapter 4|Chapter 4]]
| Return to [[Magika No Kenshi To Shoukan Maou|Main Page]]
| Forward to [[Magika No Kenshi To Shoukan Maou:Volume 6 Epilogue|Epilogue]]
|-
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</noinclude>

Magika No Kenshi To Shoukan Maou:Volume 5 Chapter 6

2020-03-04T14:13:53Z

8.20.65.4: Eliminated furigana overlapping

==Chapter 6 – Surprise Attack Operation―Magic War・Okehazama==

Kondou Hajime, who had just finished his shift as the guard of the dungeon, was requested by Hayashizaki Kazuki and Yagumo Akane to do something. It was something that made his chest beat in thrill as if he was participating in a conspiracy. Kondou who liked that kind of thing agreed happily―he came to the very end of this temporary garrison.

Even though it was called a garrison, this place was only temporary, because of that there were hotels, public facilities and the like; it was a normal corner of the city that was confiscated for the military’s use. The edges of the grounds were guarded by knights in a shift system.

There were reasons why the monitoring was done in analog using humans and not using machines. The first reason was because the garrison that was set up in these grounds had only been done two days ago. Constructing an advanced monitoring system in itself would take a lot of time.

And then one more reason was because magic power couldn’t be detected using a machine. Humans who excelled in detecting magic power were posted as guards where they had to pay attention to the suspicious outbreak of magic power.

Of course something like a knight that loved to work as a mere guard or the like didn’t exist.

It was already late at night. Kondou walked approaching the lone guard standing around doing nothing while holding his yawn.

“Hey, thanks for your hard work. …Though even if I said that I wonder if there is any meaning in this, only standing watch doing nothing.”

“…Hey, I thought it’s my relief but it’s just Kondou. It’s not your shift right now, right? What a short-lived joy.” The knight who stood guard released a deep sigh. “Well, it seems there is meaning in this you know? There is no worry of an enemy attack tonight, but rather than the outside, the order is to be on guard against the inside.”

Be on guard against the inside―hearing those words made Kondou scrunch his eyebrows a little.

“So they told you to be more careful for desertion rather than the enemy. But does that actually happen? Things like deserting soldiers.”

“There is nothing like that on my shift. But, I heard that a few had been caught. Those who tried to escape were all swordsmen, but there is not a single one of the Magika Stigma who tried. As expected between those who are granted with Stigmata and became a knight, [the chosen humans] compared to the swordsmen, their resolve might be different.”

“…You can't say that it’s only because of such things you know. On the battlefield, the swordsman is in several times more danger compared to the Magika Stigma after all. If they faced something like that, then they would want to desert. Isn’t that the difference? It’s not a thing that you can think so menially.”

“Is that so? Maybe it’s really like that. …So, what did you come here for?”

“I couldn’t sleep at all, so I was thinking that I wanted to feel the night breeze for a little, and then I remember that tonight it’s your shift as a guard. There is that favor from you setting up that mixer the other day that I haven’t paid back yet. Well, though I didn’t meet any great catch at all that time either.”

“Oh, so you mean you're admirably proposing to replace me in guarding this spot?”

“Right on the mark. The soft and fluffy bed in the hole is waiting for you right now.”

‘Yossha-‘ The lookout knight started running while Kondou sent him off.

…A lookout for deserters was it? But in this society, there were also exceptions like deserting caused by bravery.

After a while Kondou called out “All clear”, he sent out a signal to Kazuki.

◇ ◇ ◇ ◇

Kazuki divided his comrades into groups and then [ambushed] the rooms where the students of the Knight Academy were resting. And then they performed an inspection on the students' belongings and confiscated everything like cell phones and the like that could be used as a method to contact the outside.

When he explained the situation, all the students gave their understanding. There was also a possibility of a spy among the students of the Knight Academy. 'That’s why entrust me with all the communication devices before we conduct this absolute secret operation'―if Kazuki said it like that and a student was still resisting then it was the same as admitting, [I am suspicious].

And then he divided the 150 students into subdivisions and departed the garrison one group at a time. With the cooperation of Kondou-san who stood as the guard, the Knight Academy students succeeded in not being noticed by anyone.

The escaping students that numbered a little under 150 people gathered in a public park that didn’t have any human presence where Kazuki explained the operation once more in detail. If by any chance Kazuki didn’t have his accomplishments of becoming the champion of the election battle, then surely the students wouldn’t give their agreement in following Kazuki’s plan.

The students all lent their ear with serious expressions listening to Kazuki’s words.

“This plan is similar to the famous surprise attack strategy that was performed at Aichi Prefecture a long time ago in the previous era, thus…we will name this operation [Magic War・Okehazama]!”

When he said the operation’s name that really had good taste if he said so himself, the students cheered ‘Oooo’ with voices that might be audible from the garrison and applauded. The morale was high even though it was quite risky.

“Though Okehazama is more in the west from here…” Koyuki retorted with a serious face.

Next, Kazuki reorganized the platoons according to the elements of the magic that the students used. Fifteen platoons were made of ten people each where everyone had their own roles clarified. And then to the fifteen leaders of the platoons, Kazuki distributed the wireless software headset he received from Akane-senpai. While this headset was small model communication equipment, it was able to switch between several communication networks from short range to long range. It had become the standard equipment of the Knight Order. Akane-senpai pilfered all of it from the warehouse for Kazuki’s sake.

They were using wireless at this time was so that the enemy couldn’t intercept their communications, but it was also because they had to be vigilant so that the Knight Order too couldn’t intercept the signals.

“Ah, spare me from usin’ that. That’s just too effeminate zee, wearin’ this kind of appliance.”

But the Einherjar Damian who had the creed of rejecting technology refused to wear the wireless.

“Well then everyone, let’s pass through the military boundary line and hit Yamato’s frontline.”

They had already broken through the military boundary line from Japan’s side. They would keep this pace and break through the security of Yamato and then assault the front line garrison of Yamato in one go.

The location of the garrison had been thoroughly investigated by the Knight Order and Akane-senpai had also taught that to Kazuki.

◇ ◇ ◇ ◇

“O affectionate rain cloud that grants the blessing to the earth, cry and weep fiercely just for this moment, please hide our figure inside the curtain of lamentation…{{furigana|Crying Nimbus|Rain Cloud of Outcry}}.”

Hikaru-senpai in her Magic Dress form was chanting the Summoning Magic of Baal, the Diva that manipulated the weather.

In the blink of an eye the night sky was covered with dark clouds, drops of rain began to fall.

By means of Hikaru-senpai’s control, Hikaru-senpai made the rain stronger little by little so as to not make anyone suspicious.

Before long the far away scenery became hazy where they couldn’t see well from the passing shower.

“Ahaha. You know I have been doubtful for a long time wondering whether there is any use for this magic. Making rain fall down and become sopping wet only makes lightning magic hard to use. I never thought about using it for a surprise attack.”

Hikaru-senpai talked while hugging Kazuki’s arm tightly. “Why is senpai hugging me?”

“Praa―ise me♪” She said that with a voice full of charm, so Kazuki patted Hikaru-senpai’s head gently.

“Now that you mentioned it senpai, I just noticed it but reinforcement magic like [Ride Lightning] couldn’t be chanted in preparation time like this right? Even though I think it will be convenient if that’s possible.”

When Kazuki tried to chant the spell, he sensed that it wouldn’t activate.

“Right. Because spell chanting includes declaration of [what is the power going to be used for], so in the case of reinforcement magic there are many that have [fighting spirit against the enemy in front of you] as their trigger. That’s why it’s mostly unusable when you only want to use it to strengthen yourself yet there is no target you want to defeat inside your <magic perception range>.”

After Hikaru-senpai had finished teaching him such a thing so skillfully, once more she declared “Praa―ise me♪” and rubbed herself on Kazuki. Really, this senpai is….like that Kazuki kept patting Hikaru-senpai’s head repeatedly.

“Well then senpai and all the others in the lightning magic platoon, please fall back to the rear until the rain stopped.”

“Okay, I’ll leave the rest to you-”

◇ ◇ ◇ ◇

They examined the situation of the military boundary line from their cover. There are two soldiers standing guard in line, and then there were also soldiers coming in patrol at a fixed interval asking for the situation.

But Yamato’s swordsmen were not skilled. Even their magic power was not much different from normal civilians. Their level didn’t reach the degree where they could detect the magic power of unseen approaching humans.

The communication devices that they used were the same as the ones that Kazuki and the other students used this time.

First, in order to not let them notify their comrades―Kanae and Torazou-san crept unnoticed without making any sound and destroyed the communication devices with kodachi and sword hand strikes.

“…!? …!”

The guard was shocked from the sudden appearance of Kanae’s figure and tried to call for help but―his voice didn’t come out.

Karin moved the airflow with Psychokinesis and made the surroundings of the soldiers into a vacuum.

It was one of the assassination techniques beaten into the girl by Hayashi Shizuka.

If there was no air to propagate the vibration of sound, even voices couldn’t be produced. He was unable to call for help.

“………! (TORAZOU SMAAAAAAAAASH!)”

Torazou-senpai smashed a powerful strike even though his voice was not audible because of the vacuum, Kanae too mercilessly carved her opponent apart roughly, in no time at all the soldiers on lookout fell into the unconsciousness of magic intoxication.

The security is lax, Kazuki thought. The competency level of Yamato’s soldiers was no better than normal civilians. They were also resting on their laurels carelessly because of the traitor’s information. Adding to that, it was also because, in the first place, they hadn’t completely decided [what kind of security would be effective].

[[image:Magika No Kenshi To Shoukan Maou Vol 05 256.jpeg|thumb]]

There was no doubt that they hadn’t even imagined such a thing like the guard getting defeated without even able to raise their voices.

“From here it’s a fight against time. Until the next patrol comes here again…”

Under the falling rain, Kazuki and the others penetrated the occupied area of Yamato. The inhabitants of this side had been evacuated too, there was no human presence at all.

◇ ◇ ◇ ◇

Yamato side―there was [Yokohashi platoon garrison] around the eastern tip of the prefectural border of Chubu Prefecture, Yamato took over that place and used it just like that.

Inside the falling rain with bad visibility, the students of the Knight Academy were hiding using the surrounding buildings as cover while surrounding the building of Yokohashi garrison―a large concrete structure similar with a school, bringing the building into their <magic perception range>. Making the building itself as their attack target, the large scale magic corps with Kaguya-senpai as its platoon leader began their spell chanting.

And then if a spell was chanted at this range, the other side too would notice the outbreak of magic power.

Swordsmen leapt out from the building entrance as scouts, toward this side―they ran heading toward the direction of the magic power that Kaguya-senpai produced. If it had become like this then it was meaningless for this side to keep hiding their presence.

The swordsman corps of Kanae and the others met the approaching scouts and defeated them in no time.

It was the beginning of small scale hostilities. The enemy had sensed this side and the battle would begin from here on.

On [the other side of the windows] of the building, the illegal magicians of Yamato began their spell chanting. The other side had confirmed this side’s figures by sight―in other words this side had entered into their magic perception range. In regards to that, Kazuki and the others fixed their sight only on the building. In the end they couldn’t target anything other than the building with their magic.

[If it had to be said strongly] then the disadvantage for the attacking side was around this area.

“Defensive magic!” Kazuki sensed the magic power and gave out instructions.

“{{furigana|Onibi Hyakka Ryouran|Will-o-Wisp Hundred Flowers Blooming Profusion}}!”

“{{furigana|Raijin Taiko|Thunder God Drum}}!”

“{{furigana|Magatsu Kaze Kamaitachi|Evil Wind Sickle Weasel}}!” …

The Divas of Japanese Mythology emerged one after another, dozens of offensive magic came flying. Against those attacks, the students of the Magic Division matched the number of defensive magic and resisted. Various elements of defensive magic were erected all at once over and over again, defending against the offensive magic.

Offensive magic came flying in rapid succession due to the quickness of Drive’s chanting. The damage to the surrounding building and to the students came out due to their inability to defend everything with defense magic but―

Even while allowing the enemy’s preemptive attack, this side’s preparations had also been finished.

“O darkness of mind contained within the eternal cycle of death and rebirth! O seven stars shining inside that! Display the microcosm of the creation of heaven and earth and show the whereabouts of the person!! Galaxy!”

“”In the sky moon, on the earth wolf, raging howl loudly indicted the sins on the earth! O shining moon that is also shining on top of the deeply sinful person’s head, change that light of motherhood into fury, crush this earth! The nightmare of falling moon right here…Moon Strike!!””

With the garrison building as the target―the characteristic magic of the Magic Division student council president and the combination magic of the hidden powerful duo of the Ryuutaki sisters were invoked at the same time. The night sky that continuously rained down suddenly became clear.

Dark clouds parted, the burning stars and moon became a meteor shower and rained down incessantly. Light and thunderous roars that were already outside the realm of human senses were produced…,

The Toyohashi regiment garrison didn’t even leave rubble, transformed into an uneven crater and open wasteland.

[Right there several hundred people were scattered apart shining with defensive magic power.] There were unarmed humans mixed among them, surely they were non-combatants that were inside the garrison. They who were outside the magic perception range of Kaguya-senpai were mostly unaffected by the offensive magic. Only the building was annihilated.

The result of the meteor that split apart the night sky was the clean disappearance of the rain clouds that Hikaru-senpai summoned. The clearly extending starry sky spread out like a lie.

“Close-quarters combat units, charge!!” Together with Kanae’s order, the close-quarters battle units were charging.

Just as I thought, Kazuki confirmed the rightness of his own idea.

―[There were no rules of three times attack or castle siege] in a magic war.

It was an unlikely assumption but as long a lot of adamantium was not used on the outer wall, a fort or protective wall that could endure against offensive magic this powerful didn’t exist.

With the birth of magic in this world, modern weapons and forts had become obsolete. Only humans that had obtained the power called magic had become conspicuously powerful.

That was why if a war started, there would be nothing but humans that remained on the battlefield immediately. Every battle would become a field battle soon at any rate. It was unlikely for a fort capture, siege battle or the like to occur. There was no meaning at all for the defensive side to defend their encampment―after all, what decided the war was the soldiers.

And then the defending side which had their building suddenly destroyed was thrown into chaos from suddenly getting thrown outside―just like the time when the Knight Academy students were attacked while riding buses.

The surprise attack had completely succeeded. When it became like this, the defending side became far more disadvantaged compared to the attacking side. The soldiers of Yamato were unable to grasp the situation, they couldn’t adequately spread out their formation. Right there the close-quarters combat units that Kanae spearheaded made their assault. The Magic Division students were chanting magic to support their attack.

Inside this chaos, it would be hard to chant magic even in the case that they had Drive.

The swordsmen of Yamato didn’t have anything but makeshift skill <ref>The phrase used here is re-tempering a dull sword (so that it looks as if it's sharp, but is actually unusable)</ref>, the illegal magicians too were vastly inferior compared to the knights in magic technique like Resist or the like. When the situation was reversed where they were the ones ambushed, they were weak.

In spite of the fewer numbers of the Knight Academy students that were less than 150 people, the manpower of Yamato reached around a shocking number of 300 or 400. The difference in manpower was more than double, but if they could succeed in a surprise attack and pushed forward with the momentum, they could overturn the difference in manpower!

The enemy camp had finally begun to recover from the chaos. The swordsmen of Yamato moved out to protect the illegal magicians and were forming the Heaven and Earth Formation. Right at that timing, Kazuki fired his second arrow.

“Flying column charge!” He ordered to his headset.

“O Astaroth commiserating the foolish sin! In order to be the agent of thy indictment, please lend me thy manservant which is thy mounted beast!! {{furigana|Trampling Drake|Trampling Down Big Dragon}}!!”

Flying column―Mibu-senpai who circled to the rear of Toyohashi platoon garrison and laid in wait caused a crack on the ground, from there she summoned a giant lizard clad in blue flame. This blue flame was not the blue color of a super high temperature like Belial, it was dyed blue from constantly burning poisonous substances, emitting a strange smell like sulfur. On top of that blue flaming lizard, the platoon that was led by Mibu-senpai mounted it.

“Loyal manservant of Lucifer, O Gamigyn! Please lend me thy swift horse, the symbol of thy loyalty!! {{furigana|Gallop Racer|Hell’s Fine Horse}}!!”

Mibu-senpai’s protégée Asamiya-senpai too invoked her magic together. The space in the immediate side of the girl was ‘BIKIBIKIBIKI!’ forming a rift, summoning a horse with a body clad in red flame. The platoon led by Asamiya-senpai was riding up on the back of that horse.

At that time changes happened to the giant lizard and the flaming horse―the giant lizard transformed into a huge blue armored car, and the horse into a large red bike.

Kazuki was startled after using his sight that was reinforced with magic power and witnessing the transformation of the Demon Beasts into machines.

………What in the world is happening there?

{When the summoner’s individuality is excessively strong, there are cases like that where the Diva’s Summoning Magic is stretched by that individuality. This phenomenon is quite similiar to the characteristic magic that Otonashi Kaguya became able to use.}

Leme taught him using Telepathy with a whispering voice. I see, so their character is just too deep.

Anyhow, Mibu-senpai and her group could be said to be able to use magic with high mobility and high transportation capacity, so they were grouped together to compose a special mobile corps. The armored car and bike that were loaded with a great number of students took off with great momentum. The engines were *BOOOOONN!!* roaring explosively, its music horns were *PARARIPARARIRA!!* playing the biker gang’s peculiar enigmatic music.

“HYAHHAA―!! We're gonna cross over the period zee―!!”

“Anekii―! We're gonna transform into wind Anekii―!!”

Mibu-senpai and Asamiya-senpai raised their voices like a biker gang themselves and assaulted the rear of the enemy’s formation.

The illegal magicians of Yamato turned back and intercepted with offensive magic. However the armored car and large type bike that were created from Summoning Magic were different than a mere bus and couldn’t be destroyed that easily.

“UOOOOOO! This situation is interestiIIIIIING!! LET”S RAMPAGEEEEEE!!”

Damian too was riding on the armored car. She was not inside the car but clinging onto the car roof. She was in a great enjoyment while her hair messily trailed behind from the pouring wind from the front.

“””HYAHHAA―!!””” Together with those voices of rapture, the armored car and bike flew to the enemy formation and sent the illegal magicians flying.

“We are following the wish of Hodur, I too entrust my body once more to the exaltation of battle! Wartime fire of violent emotion running in the blood and fat of my sword!! Stories Flame!”

Among the agonizing cries of the enemy formation, Damian leapt while chanting reinforcement magic.

From inside the armored car and the back of the large bike, swordsmen were leaping out in a bustle.

The enemy formation that had been temporarily recovering their composure from the chaos fell once more into pandemonium.

Heaven and Earth Formation was weak against a pincer attack. It was a fact that Kazuki also learned from Yamato’s surprise attack.

{Kazuki! Hayashi Shizuka has been discovered!!}

In his ears―the headset that Kazuki equipped let out Kohaku’s voice.

Kazuki had told the swordsmen that were fighting in the front line to inform him immediately once Hayashi Shizuka had been discovered.

“Drilling the far away, <Doutanuki>! Battou Kaikon―Tenran Kamaitachi!!”

Together with Kohaku’s voice, a storm of magic power was blowing violently toward the sky in a certain location of the battlefield. That was the power of Kohaku’s Sacred Treasure. She was making that scene in place of a beacon to mark her location.

“Karin!” Kazuki gripped Karin’s hand tightly and dashed.

“You are going to settle with your destiny now!!”

“…Okay!” Karin nodded with obedience that she had never shown until now.

Defeat Hayashi Shizuka. That was this battle’s most important objective. All the other enemy soldiers were trivial.

Kazuki pulled Karin’s hand and drew her near him, then he circled his hands around those slender hips and took her in a princess carry.

“Waa!? What’s with this posture!” Kazuki ignored Karin who had her eyes opened wide.

“Ride Lightning!” Kazuki kicked the ground with all his strength while accelerating the strength of his whole body.

{It’s going just as I anticipated huh…}

The Telepathic voice resounding inside Kazuki’s head―Tamamo no Mae.

{I’d never expect that this leadership was your first campaign, boy. No, O Little King.}

◇ ◇ ◇ ◇

While carrying Karin with his left hand, Kazuki cut a swath through the swordsmen obstructing his path with Doufu in his right hand. He stepped over the enemies that he defeated with a single blow and stormed into the deepest area of the enemy’s formation. Before long just like what Kohaku informed him, Shizuka’s figure entered his eyes in front of him. What emerged in that expression of hers was fury and impatience.

“You finally came huh, you bastard…”

With a look that was grinding her teeth audibly, Shizuka began to chant her spell.

Kazuki too, at the same time he caught the appearance of Shizuka, let Karin down from his arm while invoking his magic.

“O divine protection of military men, double the Megin that is swirling in my body! The will of god spurring me to endless battle, in this body! …Megingjord!”

At the same time he perceived the nature of the magic that Shizuka was in the middle of chanting. And then he gave the signal.

“Miyabi-senpai, please!”

―Kazuki had made a request to Miyabi-senpai for her to be in a position where Kazuki was always fixed inside her magic perception range as much as possible. She should be coming along here while somehow being able to keep Kazuki, who was dashing at full strength, inside her line of sight. …Shizuka used a powerful offense magic that Kazuki couldn’t defend with the defensive magics that he had in hand. He had been aware of it beforehand, that was why Kazuki had to take countermeasures in preparation for this moment.

“The water god of red hair awoke world destruction, restoring the rift of heaven, O the great power of Joka…lining up to that heaven and earth creation please distribute the light of world compilation in this hand! Goshiki Seki!!”

Shizuka invoked her magic with one hand raised high to the sky. A stone that contained Joka’s power was created inside that hand, emitting light of every color!

“…Mirror O mirror, lop off the ugly person’s sight and greedy hand! {{furigana|Moon Ring・Mirror Field|Moon Ring’s Mirror Shield}}!!”

At the same time, Miyabi-senpai invoked her magic with time to spare.

An avatar of the moon floated in front of Kazuki, then it became a materialized mirror.

Moon―the shining mirror of heaven that even reflected the power of the sun.

The Goshiki Seki released the light that altered the existence of physical material. If defensive magic of other elements was used then it would surely have its existence erased and made powerless. However the ultimate mirror perfectly reflected the very light itself.

“Kazuki doesn’t have defensive magic that protects against light, do you? Fufufu, with this the reason to conquer me increased.”

Miyabi-senpai was “fufufu” laughing daringly. In contrast, Shizuka was groaning “Impossible…!”.

But even so the magic of Joka was not only to that extent. The power of Joka, whose name was well known in Chinese Mythology, was supposed to possess a terrific power in each of her magic.

―But it was only in the case that if Shizuka could chant, that is.

“O earth of Pangu…!”

Kazuki too began chanting his spell. And, he swung down his beloved katana Doufu with power reinforced by Megin simultaneously. Shizuka too parried that katana with spiraling movement while maintaining her spell chanting.

The kick that she launched in return as counterattack was not parried by Kazuki, instead he forcefully repelled it.

“Reveal those every possibilities of the abyss in accordance with my wish…!”

“Stone cleaved, root torn, sin severed, that spirit sword of crushing evil right now in this hand!”

Kazuki too, Shizuka too, the two of them were magic warriors that skillfully used both Summoning Magic and close-quarters combat.

While mutually chanting spells, they were unfolding a fierce offense and defense.

However, it was as if Kazuki had completely become like Beatrix, he felt his whole body was overflowing with strength. More than usual, he was several levels faster, stronger, swinging down his beloved katana. Shizuka’s arm that was attempting to redirect that attack lost to its pressure and her posture broke. Right at that timing, Kazuki’s second slash surged like an avalanche. Receiving a severe attack, Shizuka staggered along with a blue defensive magic power.

What got disordered in instability was not only her posture―her chant too. Therefore Kazuki managed to invoke his magic earlier.

“Draw sword, Futsu no Mitama!!”

Sheathing Doufu back into his sheath, he gripped the sword of crushing evil in return. Shizuka who was slightly late from Kazuki in her chanting almost managed to carry it out to the finish, but right at that moment Kazuki swung down the sword that severed magic power.

*BAKIN* The magic power that was kneaded until just the moment before invocation was destroyed.

“!?” Haggardness came to the surface of Shizuka’s expression.

[Futsu no Mitama] also had the effect of obstructing the chanting of a spell. With the disordered chanting ability that Shizuka had right now, she became unable to chant a powerful magic―except for mostly simple low level magic.

In reverse, for Kazuki who advantageously advanced the offense and defense, he had even more room to chant spells.

Kazuki wielded the sword of crushing evil even further. Shizuka, whose heart was thrown out of order by impatience lost sight of even her original martial art and became flustered from Kazuki’s fierce attack until she was finally blown away.

“Kuh, even in the worst case, this me, no way I’ll lose in this kind of place!” The haggardness in Shizuka’s expression changed into faintheartedness.

While escaping from Kazuki’s sword by rolling about on the ground, the girl managed to chant a short spell somehow.

“…O Joka’s shining five colors, repaint the world! The heaven I wished for is not here! To the other side that compass pointed at…Kuujin Hen’i!”

…Escape magic! At Shizuka’s side, an avatar of a huge Diva with a female upper body and naga lower body was floating. She was carrying a compass in her right hand where its needle was beginning to spin and spin reacting to the magic that Shizuka invoked.

…This girl mustn’t escape from here!

“Ride Lightning!!” Kazuki accelerated his physical ability even more electrifyingly.

“UOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!”

He kicked the ground with all his strength while raising a war cry. [Megingjord] and [Ride Lightning] created a synergy, producing tremendous explosive power for Kazuki.

What invoked that escape magic, was that compass. The needle of the compass was spinning, spinning―however Kazuki closed the distance even before that magic power completely activated. And then with the sword of crushing evil, he slashed.

The compass that Joka’s avatar held was the same like Joka, it was not material matter. It couldn’t get slashed or the like by a normal sword. But [Futsu no Mitama] was able to cut the magic power itself, even an avatar.

The compass was bisected in two and fell from Joka’s hand.

{Hohou} Joka let out a voice of admiration. The escape magic was crushed due to Kazuki’s speed.

This girl surely was intending to fight from the inside of a safety zone. Like that time in the finals too.

“Prepare yourself, you cannot escape from this losing war.”

“Sh, shit…cannot escape you say…this me is, in this kind of poor and boring island country…”

Even chanting spells was pointless, even doing close range battle was already hopeless against the current Kazuki.

“Karin!” With a desperate voice, Shizuka yelled “Karin, protect me!!”

Kazuki relaxed the stance of his katana and turned to Karin’s direction. Karin too looked back at Kazuki and nodded.

Kazuki could defeat Shizuka by keeping the current pace. However that wouldn’t become any conclusion.

“…Karin, you <ref>The ‘you’ used here is in the sense of ‘you bastard’ or ‘you son of a bitch’</ref>, are my family…. Protect your family…”

Toward Shizuka that so shamelessly spouted out that falsehood, Karin directed her fist and prepared a stance with low center of gravity.

“Shizuka-[neesan]…you taught martial arts to me…”

“You bastard…what are you intending to do, that fist is…. You are saying you are going to defy me…!”

“The fist that Nee-san taught me, was my pride…!!”

“You bastarrd!” Both of them kicked the ground with Jouchouho simultaneously.

Shizuka launched a fierce kick filled with fury to Karin. Karin slipped under the kick by lowering her body like a beast, her foot at the rear stepped powerfully on the ground. Then all that energy slammed into Shizuka from her shoulder with force―<{{furigana|Tetsusankou|Iron Mine Lean}}>.

“Guh…!” Even with her magic power scattered and her body bent backward, Shizuka still adjusted her stance and swung down a palm heel like an iron hammer. Karin tilted her neck and evaded the counterattack with minimum movement while forcing up her palm heel. The mutual attacks passed each other, Shizuka whose face was hit with the palm heel staggered. Even while staggering, Shizuka launched a kick with her left foot as if to show her will. Karin crouched down and evaded that kick while making a sweeping kick to sweep out Shizuka’s left foot―<{{furigana|Soutai|Sweeping Thigh}}>.

With her right foot driven off, Shizuka fell on her backside.

“Wh…why is…” Having herself overpowered by Karin, she leaked out a shell-shocked voice.

“In power and also in speed, Nee-san always has the upper hand. However Nee-san’s technique doesn’t work against me.”

There was not even a fragment of intensity in Karin’s fight, she was only looking down at Shizuka with an expression that merely filled with earnest grief. “I have been watching Nee-san’s technique the whole time. I yearned for that technique, I have been watching the whole time trying to steal it…. Nee-san had never tried looking at me at all but…”

“Stop prattling-!” Shizuka sprang up in the middle of Karin’s words and thrust out her left fist.

Karin flipped up that thrust with her right arm and parried it. Shizuka immediately thrust with her right fist. Karin repelled it down with her left hand. Both Shizuka’s hands were opened to the above and below, making her face unguarded. With her raised right elbow, Karin struck a blow to Shizuka’s face like an iron hammer. ―<{{furigana|Koukaimon|Hard Open Gate}}>.

Katsura Karin was seeing through every movement of Hayashi Shizuka.

“I, wanted to be useful to Nee-san…”

Karin whispered crestfallenly. Looking at such a Karin, a furious expression emerged in Shizuka’s face and she struck out aiming at Karin’s face.

“I wanted you to look at me more. I wanted to get praised, even just one word…!”

Karin opened her body to the side and dodged, at the same time she stepped forward strongly while piercing her elbow on Shizuka’s face in a counter. ―<{{furigana|Gaimon Chouchū|Outer Gate Spire Elbow}}>.

“…Nee-san didn’t love me. However in these few days I knew. What kind of feeling love is…”

Right there Karin looked at Kazuki in a glance. There was no mistake that the warmth of the Witch’s Manor flashed in the back of her head right now. “Kazuki and Charlotte and everyone, had taught me!!”

“What love, what family, that kind of nonsense…!”

Shizuka tried to launch a counterattack. However she was beaten to the punch, Karin stabbed her claw to Shizuka’s neck who was full of openings―<{{furigana|Kosoushou|Tiger Claw Palm}}>. With that one attack as the beginning, she procured strength with a powerful Shinkyaku while launching an elbow strike, thrust, and elbow strike filled with strength of a one-hit-kill consecutively piercing the vital spots of Shizuka. A technique of combo attack just like a fierce tiger running up the mountain powerfully slashing its front leg―<{{furigana|Zesshou・Mouko Kouhazan|Sever Beckoning・Fierce Tiger Firmly Ascending Mountain}}>.

Finally her magic power was disconnected, Shizuka stepped back in a stagger.

“…Do, don’t mess with me-! You are just a puppet-!!”

Shizuka exerted both her legs strenuously and fixed her stance. Taking a step forward she fitted her right palm on Karin’s chest―the stance of the girl’s sure-kill technique. Karin didn’t even try to dodge and accepted it while she too fitted her own right palm on Shizuka’s chest in response. And then they yelled simultaneously.

“I’ll teach you your place, puppet! …With this <Shintoukei> of mine!!”

“At the very least I’ll finish this with my pride…with Nee-san’s <Shintoukei>!!”

Shinmyaku―both of them simultaneously, powerfully stepped firmly on the ground. ‘DON!’ With one reverberating roaring sound, both people simultaneously had their hips, shoulders, elbows rotated like a spiral. And then the impact broke through the palms.

Which one of them shot out their {{furigana|Hakkei|release internal power}} first couldn’t be understood by outsider’s eyes.

“Good bye, Nee-san…this is our first conversation…in our last moment…”

―Karin whispered with teary eyes while her nose sniffled in a sob. With her eyes still opened wide and her expression looking like an ogre, Shizuka collapsed down to the ground like a [puppet] with its strings cut.

{You finally did it, Karin…} Tamamo no Mae said affectionately.

{This is only the fall of one of my contractors. This is not even a crack in Chūkadou.}

Joka’s avatar floated for a moment and only said that before she vanished.

“The destiny of all things in nature is inside the great celestial sphere…O binding of constellations, suspend the movement of heaven! Horoscope Stasis!”

Kazuki invoked Baal’s binding magic on Shizuka whose heart had already stopped beating. Star lights flickered on Shizuka’s hands and feet, becoming the thread of a constellation from the links between lights and restrained Shizuka’s whole body.

“Kazuki…what are you planning?” Karin asked in wonder.

“…We are not just killing her like this. Because if she completely died then that’s the end. We are arresting this girl.” And then Kazuki chanted resuscitation magic that he had experienced personally.

“…O elegant, beautiful fire of reincarnation, burn the surface of life and sprout the restoration of the inside…Anti Aging!”

◇ ◇ ◇ ◇

“Retreat!” ―A voice came from the night sky. When he looked up, a black dragon―Fafnir was covering the sky, Kaya and Maya were straddling its back.

It seemed that she was informed of the surprise attack and came here in a rush from a different region―might be from Gifu or Toyama, or else might be from even further inside Yamato.

Following that order, Yamato’s military force began to withdraw. Attack magics were launched at their back in order to take even one more prisoner. The enemy soldiers that were defeated became Kazuki and the others’ prisoners just like that.

“…You really got me. I never thought at all that Onii-chan unexpectedly wouldn’t get held back by the idiots and come preparing an attack this fast.”

Kaya murmured. At her back Maya was “Hi, high, high, scary, scary…” trembling.

“Nyarlako, you have defensive magic power so even if you fall you'll be fine, so despite that why are you trembling?” Like that Kaya scolded Maya. “Well then see you, Onii-chan. Next time it won’t go well like this you know.”

Leaving behind a parting threat like that to Kazuki, the black dragon disappeared to the north night sky. The end of the battle. Experiencing such a feeling Kazuki looked around his surrounding, he was confirming the safety of everyone from the Witch’s Manor. And then the fatigue of the very long day weighed on him all at once, making him almost flop on the ground.

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==Translator's Notes and References==
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