Toaru Hikuushi e no Seiyaku:V9Part3

Part 21 (Part 3 of Volume 9)

Workers, securely fastened to a network of wires and harnesses under the rocky surface of the flying island, swiftly descended along the cables and attached themselves to the new propulsion units being installed. Far below, the vast blue sea stretched out, and to the west, a distant white mist marked a great waterfall. At an altitude of 1,900 meters, nearly 6,000 workers were clinging to the towering rock formations, working around the clock to install the jet propulsion system.

Imperial Year 1352, January 10, off the coast of Sierra Greed, Floating Fortress Odin—

On the surface, in the control tower of Odin, the brain of the operation, Balthazar, Elisabeth, and Balthazar’s younger brother, Simon Berner, head of the jet engine development division at Berner Heavy Industries, were intently staring at the installation schedule.

"You're telling me we need to make this operational in just a week?"

Simon, exhausted, glanced up at his older brother. Balthazar’s response was curt.

"Do it."

"That’s easy for you to say. But we’re talking about installing 80 jet engines and doing operational tests in a week…"

"I don’t care how much it costs. Pour in all the assets of the Berner family. I authorize it."

"Don’t authorize that! Our group’s employees would be left destitute. I’ve already secured permission from Chairman Renior to use his personal assets. If we throw everything into it, maybe we can make it happen…"

"If it can be done, then do it. Divide the workers into teams by their assigned areas and make them compete. Promise the top-performing teams enough wealth to live off for the rest of their lives. People work ten times harder when a fortune is on the line."

"…Even if we meet the deadline, controlling all these engines will be a nightmare. Our jet engines last only 200 hours before they’re useless."

"All the engines are disposable. If they last through a single operation, that’s enough. The priority is speed. With the jets, we’ll strike Pleiades with lightning speed, severing Uranos’ jugular with one decisive blow from our elite air squad. There's no need to plan a return. If we fail, everyone aboard Odin will die. That’s the only way to save the world."

Balthazar declared this with certainty.

Based on the ultra-classified information provided by Mio, Balthazar was now leading the charge in executing Operation B, a massive counteroffensive that was rapidly taking shape. The largest cooperative military operation in human history, involving a joint assault by the powers of the Multi-Island Sea against the Uranos-held Pleiades and a simultaneous landing on the Mitterland mainland, was gradually coming to fruition.

To facilitate smooth coordination between the participating powers, a Multi-Island Sea Allied Command was being established. Requests for allied forces had been made to the Kingdom of Keiken, with whom a ceasefire had just been signed. The landing points were being selected, communications with the resistance forces hidden within Mitterland were being established, and Pleiades’ current position and trajectory were being calculated. As these necessary measures were swiftly put into action, Balthazar prepared to make another critical move.

"The assault on Pleiades by Odin is a one-way mission. Once the battle begins, it will only end when one side is annihilated. The air squadron aboard Odin will consist solely of the most determined elite pilots. Whether we can secure air superiority over Pleiades will decide not just the success of this surprise attack but the fate of the entire world. Failure is not an option. To ensure victory in the air, we need to form the strongest fighter squadron ever, transcending all national boundaries within the Multi-Island Sea."

Kiyoaki’s vision was now being realized under Balthazar’s command. Operation B, the largest military plan ever, could be said to have originated from this very vision.

Elisabeth nodded in agreement.

"The Isla Fleet’s fighter squadron has already merged with the Valkyries. Given the situation with Duke Ballesteros, Commander Louis readily agreed. Training for the newly formed squadron is scheduled to begin today here at Odin."

Balthazar gazed up at the sky. It was still a clear blue without any aircraft, but the aerial drills were about to commence.

"We have a limited number of available aircraft. To ensure we don’t lose, we must have the best pilots from both the Voltec Squadron and the Kusanagi Squadron. Since we’re outnumbered and outgunned, our only hope is to compensate with superior skill."

The four elite fighter squadrons in the Multi-Island Sea region consisted of the Valkyries, the Isla Fleet’s squadron, the Voltec Squadron of the St Vault Empire, and the Kusanagi Squadron of the Kingdom of Keiken. The plan was to merge these squadrons, each the strongest in their respective nations, here at Odin to form the ultimate fighter squadron of the Multi-Island Sea. It sounded simple enough on paper, but in reality, it was far more complicated. These pilots had recently been trying to kill each other in the skies, and many had lost comrades in the process. There was a higher chance of them avenging their fallen comrades than forming a united front.

Elisabeth responded thoughtfully to Balthazar.

"The new Keiken Kingdom Emperor is a highly intelligent man. When I proposed joining the Multi-Island Sea Allied Forces, we received his approval almost immediately. The flying fortress Suzaku and the Kusanagi Squadron will be vital to this operation. The Empire may have its grievances, but they must set aside their past grudges and cooperate to end the war against Uranos."

Balthazar nodded. Sylvania’s alliance with the Kingdom proved beneficial. While it would have been difficult for the Empire to request cooperation from the Kingdom due to issues of pride, the request came from the Kingdom, making the process much smoother. The Kingdom’s flying fortress Suzaku was crucial for the Mitterland landing operation. Like Uranos’ use of flying fortresses to break the Kukuana Line, Suzaku would provide enormous troop transport capacity, invaluable for the landings. And the Kusanagi Squadron, with their latest fighter, the Ikaruga, would rival even the Voltec Squadron, making them a formidable ally.

"The Suzaku is expected to arrive late, but the Kusanagi and Voltec squadrons will be here by midnight. It won’t be peaceful. Captain Sakagami has shot down many Voltec pilots during the Misato Air Battle, and the Kusanagi Squadron considers him a deserter…"

"Make sure they don’t start killing each other. Every pilot knows we can’t afford infighting right now."

Balthazar understood the difficulty of the situation. People couldn’t easily move past such deep-seated grudges, especially when they were expected to fight alongside those who had killed their comrades. It was unrealistic to expect them to suddenly join forces after such bitter conflicts.

But it had to be done.

If they couldn’t unite, this operation had no chance of success.

It wasn’t just the jet engine installations or the formation of the unified air squadron. Every aspect of this operation required pushing people to their limits. Balthazar was well aware of how difficult it was to get national armies to cooperate across borders in such a short time. Many challenges still lay ahead before the operation could even begin.

"If we can’t overcome the enmities of the past and unite the powers of the Multi-Island Sea, we won’t stand a chance against Uranos. If we lose this battle, the surface world will fall to Uranos, and everything we’ve built will be drained to sustain the skies. We’ll be left fighting over scraps from above. The only way to reject that future is to fight with everything we have now. Elisabeth, you must take the initiative in the Allied Command. I’ve already set everything up for you. You need only prove that Sylvania has the strength, wealth, and will to defeat Uranos. With the support of the Isla Fleet and the backing of 50 billion pesos in gold reserves, Sylvania will be recognized as the leader of the new Multi-Island Sea… Make sure the others see that. The Empire and the Federation are full of leaders who’ve lost their confidence after Uranos humiliated them. This is your chance to surpass them all."

Balthazar spoke quietly yet firmly to Elisabeth.

The Multi-Island Sea Allied Forces were a coalition of multinational troops gathered for this joint operation. These forces included the St Vault Empire, the Second Isla Fleet, the Kingdom of Keiken, and Sylvania, which governed the Hydrabard Archipelago. The Supreme Command of the Allied Forces had been established on Santos Island in Sierra Greed, where the highest-ranking commanders from each faction were gathering to discuss the time, place, and method of execution for the operation. Representing Sylvania, Elisabeth was personally involved in the command, engaging in intense political manoeuvring with the leaders of the Multi-Island Sea powers.

In the past, the idea of the Queen of Sylvania presiding over the powers of the Multi-Island Sea would have been unthinkable.

But the tides of power were shifting dramatically.

The St Vault Empire, driven from the mainland of Mitterland and barely clinging to survival on its colonial islands, was on the verge of collapse. Should Operation B—the official name of which had not yet been decided—fail, the Empire would cease to exist. The three nations that once made up the Akitsu Federation—the Keiken Emperor’s Kingdom, the Kingdom of Orffstoke, and the Left Zhui Dynasty—were in domestic chaos, able to send only limited aid to the Allied Forces. Meanwhile, the Hydrabard Archipelago was coalescing under the leadership of Sylvania, making it easier for Elisabeth to rally the nations. The Second Isla Fleet, too, was establishing a foothold in the Multi-Island Sea through Sylvania and was following the kingdom’s lead.

Furthermore, Elisabeth’s bold announcement to the international financial community—claiming that Sylvania had discovered 50 billion pesos worth of treasure from a sunken ship—was now being treated as fact by the world’s investors, thanks to the cooperation of the financial magnate Renior Berner. As a result, the financial markets in Sierra Greed were booming, making the island the new global financial centre. With its wealth, its military power, and its international recognition as a prosperous nation, Sylvania was now positioned to become the new leader of the Multi-Island Sea, eclipsing the St Vault Empire.

Elisabeth nodded, meeting Balthazar’s gaze earnestly.

"That’s exactly what I intend to do. I’ll use every resource to build the new order in the Multi-Island Sea."

Seeing her agree without hesitation, Balthazar nodded in approval and turned his attention back to the installation schedule, resuming his discussion with Simon.

Elisabeth smiled to herself without making a sound.

—Captain, you’re speaking to me like you did in the old days.

Back when she was ordering Cecil Hauer around in the officers' lounge at Air Hunt Academy, Balthazar had used the same commanding tone with her. Now, lost in the planning of the operation, he either hadn’t noticed or no longer cared that there were no high-ranking officials around to criticize his informality. Either way, it pleased Elisabeth to hear it.

Since reuniting with Renior last year, Balthazar had changed.

Before, even when he disagreed with her, he maintained a reserved demeanour, hiding his true thoughts behind overly polite words. But now, he had stripped away all pretence, focusing solely on ending the war, working tirelessly day and night. Deep down, Elisabeth knew that his greatest motivation was the desire to reach the Kingdom of Keiken as soon as possible to confirm Kagura’s fate.

The way he was now—so determined and strong—was dazzling. She truly thought he looked cool.

—I’ll give everything I have, too.

—To end this war.

Just as she steeled her resolve, the sound of roaring propellers reached her ears from outside the window. Looking up, she saw about 40 aircraft, tightly grouped together, streaking across the sky.

"It’s started."

In the skies above Odin, the Valkyries and the Isla Fleet’s fighter squadrons were entangled, drawing intricate patterns with their flight trails. It appeared to be a group mock air battle between the two squadrons, each fielding 20 planes.

"They’re really going at it… It’s like they’re out for blood. Someone’s going to get hurt."

Simon groaned. Indeed, the manoeuvres were too intense for a mere training exercise. While the two squadrons got along well on the ground, sharing drinks on the beach, once they clashed in the air, pride was at stake. Though they were using paint rounds, the combat was as intense as a real battle, with both sides pushing their planes to the limit.

Balthazar squinted at the sky. The planes being flown by the Valkyries were not the single-seat Kazvaan fighters they had used before. They were bulkier, seemingly built for power and defence—aircraft he hadn’t seen before.

"Are those prototypes from Berner Heavy Industries?"

Balthazar asked, and Simon grinned mischievously in response.

"Yep, I gave them 40 of those as a gift. They’re not in mass production yet, but they’re leagues ahead of the Kazvaan. They should even be able to hold their own against Uranos’ Alices Actus."

From the looks of it, the Tera Libera prototypes were performing better than the Isla Fleet’s newest fighters, the Maestra. With superior climb rates, the Valkyrie pilots were able to ascend higher into the sky, leaving the Maestra struggling to keep up.

"The Tera Libera—probably the last of the reciprocating engine fighters. It’s armed with four 20mm cannons on the wings and four 15mm guns in the fuselage. The engine puts out 2,100 horsepower. It’s slightly less powerful than the Beo-strike, but more manageable for pilots used to reciprocating engines."

However, the Valkyries, not yet fully accustomed to the Tera Libera, were still getting outmanoeuvred at critical moments, allowing the Isla pilots to slip away and turn the tables on them.

"We haven’t deployed it in actual combat yet, which is worrying… It’ll be fine, right?"

"We’ll just have to trust in it. Word is that the Lester Mathilda Company has partnered with Uranos and developed a prototype jet fighter. They’re looking for a buyer just like we are, so there’s a chance Uranos might field jet fighters against us."

"We’re aware of that in command. Rumour has it the prototype is named ‘Ortega’ after the late King of Uranos. It’s highly likely we’ll face it. As if the Alice Actus wasn’t enough of a problem, adding jets to the mix is no joke."

"Exactly. So we need to get everyone used to the Tera Libera before the operation starts. Once they’re comfortable with it, they should at least be able to hold their own against the Alice Actus."

As Simon pointed out, Uranos was preparing to deploy not only the Alice Actus, the strongest fighter in the Multi-Island Sea, but also their new jet fighter, the Ortega. With fewer planes and inferior performance, the odds were heavily stacked against them. Their only hope was to rely on the skill of their pilots, as Balthazar had told Elisabeth earlier.

In the sky, fewer and fewer planes remained in the fight. Each time a plane was hit by a paint round, it was ruled out, and the frustrated pilots were forced to return to Odin’s airfield, their wings marked with paint.

Elisabeth raised her binoculars to observe the surviving planes.

She focused on four planes still engaged in intense combat, and when she recognized who the pilots were, she gasped.

"Wow… what a group!"

Balthazar raised his binoculars as well, tracking the four fiercely duelling aircraft.

"Valkyries… Sakagami and Illia… And Isla has… Kal-el and the Mad Dog."

By the nose art on their planes, Balthazar identified the remaining aces. On the very first day of joint training, the top pilots from both squadrons had ended up facing each other. Kiyoaki’s plane bore a black rabbit emblem, Illia’s a white wolf, Yoshioka’s the image of a rabid dog, and Kal-el’s the "Wind Crest," a figure-eight symbol near the nose of his aircraft.

"Wow… I didn’t know the Libera could manoeuvre like that! The designers would lose their minds if they saw this!"

Simon couldn’t help but speak in awe. The manoeuvres were so intense that it was difficult to keep track even with binoculars. Balthazar, watching with his naked eye, was captivated by the sight of the four pilots fighting for the pride of their squadrons. Though he didn’t voice it, his heart was rooting for Kiyoaki and Illia. The key to victory in the assault on Pleiades was air superiority, and the ones who would secure that victory were undoubtedly Kiyoaki and Illia—their skill was unmatched, and Balthazar was certain of it.

I’ll take you down.

For all the training I’ve endured, for the sake of my comrades who’ve flown beside me, and for all the enemy planes I’ve shot down.

—Kal-el Albus. I’m going to bring you down…!!

Kiyoaki clenched his teeth as he relentlessly pursued Kal-el.

The January sky, pure and unstained, reflected off the vast sea below. The endless expanse of blue had long become monotonous, yet Kal-el’s silver wings tore through it, breaking the monotony with grace.

Kal-el’s aircraft banked into a vertical turn, his wings perpendicular to the earth. Even as he fled, he twisted his plane with subtle movements, throwing off Kiyoaki’s aim. Surely, inside his cockpit, Kal-el’s eyes were bloodshot, his teeth clenched on the control stick, yet there was a frustrating air of ease in his posture as if he had something up his sleeve.

He’s hiding his fangs, Kiyoaki’s instincts whispered. There must be some trick he’s preparing. A lesser pilot would fall for it, but Kiyoaki had survived countless brushes with death, and his experience screamed at him to be cautious.

The new aircraft, Tera Libera, wasn’t one he was fond of. It had incredible horsepower, unmatched climb rate, and thick Armor that made it bullet-resistant, but it didn’t fit him as well as the Ikaruga, the plane he had flown back when he was in the Akitsu Federation. Berner Heavy Industries’ planes were traditionally designed to be “forgiving” machines—ones that even inexperienced pilots could fly effectively in battle. For pilots with around 500 flight hours, the Tera Libera was ideal, but for Kiyoaki, who had flown over 200 combat sorties and downed more than 260 enemy planes, it felt too “soft.” The Ikaruga was an unruly beast, difficult to handle, but if you could master it, it could execute manoeuvres that the Tera Libera couldn’t hope to replicate.

But there was no use complaining about the aircraft now. If it came to that, Kal-el’s Maestra was technically inferior to the Tera Libera, which was why Kiyoaki had managed to get on his tail. Yet, despite being pursued, something menacing lurked behind Kal-el’s plane.

Kiyoaki could sense Kal-el’s plan.

Each time Kal-el’s plane filled Kiyoaki’s targeting reticle, he would momentarily shift his gaze to his rear.

Sure enough, there it was—Shinden Kai, with its menacing black body and tail propeller, piloted by the "Mad Dog," Yoshioka Takeo.

If Kiyoaki focused too much on Kal-el, that fearsome “fang” of the Shinden Kai would sink into him. Even though this was supposed to be a training exercise, the killing intent was palpable.

—Such intense bloodlust…!!

Though Kiyoaki couldn’t see Yoshioka’s expression in the cockpit, the sheer intensity radiating from his wings was enough to send shivers down his spine, glowing like blue flames. Even in real combat, Kiyoaki had never encountered such sharpened battle instinct. He had never met Yoshioka on the ground, but simply sharing the same airspace made his unyielding personality unmistakable.

—A fierce desire to win. A pride that will burn everything he has into the sky…

—The pride of one who lives for the sky…!!

The heat emanating from the Mad Dog made Kiyoaki’s back feel like it was burning. But he wouldn’t be intimidated.

—I’m coming for you, Kal-el, Yoshioka.

—Illia and I will prove we are the strongest pair in the Multi-Island Sea…!!

Glancing further behind the Mad Dog, Kiyoaki could just make out Illia tailing him. And looking ahead again, there was a small speck that was Illia in front of Kal-el’s plane. The four planes had formed a perfect circle, each chasing the tail of another in a flawless dogfight.

A deadlock, though not quite. The Tera Libera, with its superior power and durability, was gradually overpowering the Maestra and the Shinden Kai. At this rate, they would win.

—Kal-el knows that too. That’s why he’ll make a move soon.

But what would that move be?

Kiyoaki began reading his opponent’s movements. Evaluating the performance of the enemy’s aircraft, their skill level, and the current conditions in the sky, he absorbed every “dogfight factor” into himself, analysing them to predict Kal-el’s decisive move. This wasn’t something you could figure out through logic alone—experience was the only guide. The title of “King of the Skies” awaited those who could accurately foresee the future.

As Kal-el twisted his plane, trying to shake off Kiyoaki’s pursuit, the vertical turns gradually transformed into an aerial duel of loops—an exchange of imperfect loops that were slightly skewed, rather than the clean, symmetrical loops typical of aerobatic manoeuvres.

The answer revealed itself.

—The Karsten Turn…!!

In the Multi-Island Sea, only Kiyoaki and Illia had mastered this legendary turn. Kal-el had learned it too. Kiyoaki’s years of experience in the sky confirmed it.

In that case, Kiyoaki would respond with his own legendary turn, just as his mentor Akmed had done when he faced Kiyoaki in a mock battle and countered his Karsten Turn with one of his own. That’s exactly what Kiyoaki would do now.

—Watch me, Master Akmed…!

Kiyoaki called out to the spirit of Akmed, who had passed on the legendary technique “Serpent Strike” to him during the Second Battle of Sierra Greed before falling in battle. If Kal-el had learned from Charles the Seagull, then Kiyoaki had his own pride as Akmed’s student. In the name of his mentor, he could not lose.

He locked his gaze on Kal-el’s plane, which was now climbing toward the zenith.

The silver wings glided through the clear blue sky. Pilots beloved by the sky could be identified by the way they flew. It was as if Kal-el’s wings were being cradled by the sky itself, his movements graceful and elegant—a dance of aerial mastery. But hidden within that beautiful dance was a deadly trap.

And now, at this very moment—

As Kal-el’s plane reached the peak of its loop, it began to slip sideways.

Just as predicted.

Kiyoaki sharpened his focus. The “event horizon” that made the Karsten Turn possible—a vacuum in the sky. His refined senses perceived the invisible boundary, appearing as a shimmering membrane of light.

He could see it.

The same boundary that Kal-el saw was now visible to Kiyoaki.

Kal-el’s plane was enveloped in a glow. In an instant, his Maestra was bathed in dazzling particles of light.

An impossible turn, made real through the brilliance of light.

—How beautiful…!!

Amazed, Kiyoaki followed Kal-el’s lead, trusting his three rudders with all his might.

The shimmering light pressed down on his teardrop-shaped cockpit.

The immense deceleration force crushed down on him. The Tera Libera roared in protest. He could feel the plane’s agony through the control stick in his hands.

It felt like all his organs would be expelled from his throat. Blood surged to his head, and a moment’s carelessness would cause him to black out.

But Kiyoaki pushed through the pain. There was no time for complaints. He would bring Kal-el down, no matter what.

He forced his eyes open. Even if his limbs were torn apart, he would make sure to rip through the enemy’s side in the final moment.

Withstanding the atmospheric hammering, Kiyoaki kept his focus on the rushing torrent of light.

Kal-el’s right fuselage appeared in his sights.

At the same time, Kiyoaki pulled the trigger on his 15mm machine guns.

The paint rounds splattered across Kal-el’s plane, painting it bright red.

—Got you…!!

Just as he was about to shout in victory—

“!?”

His windshield turned blood red.

He heard the roar of propellers as the Mad Dog flew past him.

—I’ve been hit by the Mad Dog…!?

Had those been live rounds, Kiyoaki’s body would have been obliterated. It was a clean shot that left no room for argument. But the Mad Dog’s plane was also splattered with red paint…

Kiyoaki couldn’t comprehend what had just happened. He had shot down Kal-el at the exact moment the Mad Dog had shot him down. But the Mad Dog had been shot too, his canopy covered in paint.

Where was Illia?

Just as Kiyoaki was about to scan the sky, his radio crackled to life.

"Red One, Blue One, and Blue Two have been shot down. Red wins."

Kiyoaki, Kal-el, and Yoshioka had all been taken down, leaving Illia as the last plane standing. Which meant the Valkyries had won this mock battle.

"Thank goodness… Thanks, Illia…"

Kiyoaki searched through the streaks of red paint, looking for Illia.

There she was, flying alongside him, casually waving as if nothing had happened.

Finally, Kiyoaki understood.

An unbelievable situation, but the excited voices of his fellow pilots over the radio confirmed that it had really happened. A miraculous event, something out of a dream, had just unfolded in this sky…

"Four planes executing the Karsten Turn at once!!"

The excited voice of Sanatra echoed, as she eagerly tried to describe to Kiyoaki what she had just witnessed.

“It was like… this! All whoosh and bam!... Ah, I guess you don’t get it. Wait, lend me your hand, yeah like this, then it went whoosh—”

She grasped Kandata’s hand, trying to re-enact the aerial manoeuvre they had just seen. However, the more they tried, the more their hands tangled together in confusion. Kiyoaki watched them with a bemused smile, glancing up at the fading sky and then back at the horizon, where the setting sun dyed the party venue a deep crimson.

"Kal-el, I, Mad Dog, and Illia all pulled off the Karsten Turn almost simultaneously... Is that what you're saying?"

Sanatra nodded enthusiastically, clapping her hands in front of her chest with a bright smile.

"Exactly! It was incredible! I've never seen anything like it! I mean, it was a fight, sure, but it was so beautiful I ended up crying for some reason!"

Sanatra, the tough-as-nails veteran of Valkyrie, now had teary eyes as she reminisced about the aerial ballet that had played out. Beside her, Kandata, whose hand was finally freed, offered a warm, calm smile that reflected his gentle nature.

"Illia being the last one standing worked out well for us. It was a close victory, but a win's a win. Look, the party hasn’t even officially started, but everyone's already celebrating."

Kandata pointed toward a group of Valkyrie squad members who had broken into the barracks' secret stash of alcohol and started an impromptu celebration of their victory in the mock battle. The members of the Isla Fleet Air Squadron, meanwhile, had returned to their quarters to freshen up before attending the party, leaving the venue quiet for the moment. Once they returned, however, the real chaos of the welcome party would begin.

"I heard that the Voltec Air Squadron is set to arrive at Odin soon, along with a detachment of the Kusanagi Air Squadron. Tonight, we might have all the top air squadrons from the Multi-Island Sea gathered here. It's kind of nerve-wracking, don't you think?"

Even Kandata, usually so laid-back, seemed slightly on edge. As for Kiyoaki, he was more than anxious. Both the Voltec and Kusanagi squadrons had history with him, and depending on how things went, he might be in for some harsh confrontations.

But…

—As long as I don’t get killed, it’ll be fine.

Kiyoaki took a sip of the whiskey Sanatra had handed him, bracing himself.

—They have every reason to hate me. Let them mock, scorn, or even hate me.

—If it helps unite everyone for the upcoming battle, I don’t mind getting beaten up.

—The only thing that matters now is winning the decisive battle and securing air superiority over Pleiades.

As the sky darkened, lights flickered on across the party venue. Base workers bustled about, finalizing preparations, while the tantalizing aroma of spice-laden food wafted from the food stalls. A large bonfire blazed at the centre of the venue, providing warmth, and a hired band began playing lively music.

Someone called out, announcing the start of the party. The attendees immediately dove into their barrels of alcohol, chatting loudly, laughing, and even breaking into minor squabbles and tussles, as soldiers often did during celebrations. The officers, however, knew what awaited them. Only a handful, like Kiyoaki, were aware that they were embarking on a near-suicidal mission to Pleiades.

“People sure are lively up here,” Sanatra commented with a laugh.

“Yeah, they're used to the thin air,” Kandata replied, chuckling along.

Kiyoaki smiled at their banter but resolved that, for tonight, his priority was simply surviving. Just as he was solidifying his thoughts, someone suddenly grabbed him by both shoulders.

“Kiyoaki!!”

Startled by the intensity of the voice calling his name, Kiyoaki straightened up.

Standing before him was a strikingly handsome young man with blonde hair and piercing blue eyes, gripping his shoulders tightly. The proximity was so close, Kiyoaki could barely react.

“K-Kal-el…?”

Even as Kiyoaki called his name, the first-flight captain of Isla Fleet’s First Air Squadron, Kal-el Albus, remained serious, moving his face even closer, as if they were lovers sharing a secret.

“I have a favour to ask.”

“Y-Yeah?”

“Let’s do it again tomorrow.”

For a brief moment, the closeness threw Kiyoaki off, but he quickly realized that Kal-el was talking about the mock battle.

“Oh, right. Sure. I don’t mind. We were pretty lucky today anyway.”

“Thanks. That really helps. Our squad is on the verge of rioting.”

“Wait… what?”

“There are a lot of people unhappy with the results. Some of the guys who lost are being mocked, and that’s led to two fights already on our way here. Some are also complaining that the difference in plane performance made it unfair.”

“Ah, I can see that. The plane’s potential matters. I think we should let everyone fly the aircraft they prefer, regardless of which country it’s from. We’re all in the same squadron now, after all.”

“I’m glad you agree. So, tomorrow, one more time. And this time, our mentor, Charles, the Seagull, will be joining us.”

Kiyoaki nodded, excited at the prospect. Charles, Kal-el’s mentor, had been unable to participate today due to technical issues with his aircraft. Ever since Kiyoaki first saw the Seagull fly, he’d wanted to go head-to-head with him, and now he had his chance.

Satisfied with their agreement, Kal-el finally backed away, letting out a relieved sigh.

“It’s been rough since we got back after losing. I got called stupid, incompetent, and a coward—pretty much everything you could imagine. Not a single person praised me for pulling off an Ismael Turn.”

Kal-el joked, though his tone carried a hint of frustration. Kiyoaki wasn’t familiar with the term “Ismael Turn,” but he assumed it was the Balesteros equivalent of the Karsten Turn.

“Illia was in the right place at the right time. And our planes are superior in performance. It would have been better to fight on equal terms,” Kiyoaki said, trying to comfort Kal-el.

Despite his frustration, Kal-el’s graceful acceptance of defeat impressed Kiyoaki. He had every reason to be upset, yet he remained poised and honourable. Though they came from different nations, Kal-el seemed to embody a sense of chivalry deeply ingrained in his being. Just as Kiyoaki was reflecting on how respectable Kal-el was, a sudden interruption broke the moment.

“Where’s the White Wolf?”

A gruff voice demanded.

“Who’s the pilot that shot me down?”

Without anyone noticing, a boy with a scowl, holding a glass of tomato juice, had approached. His sharp gaze scanned the crowd.

Kiyoaki hadn’t sensed his approach at all.

With short ash-blond hair and striking blue eyes, the boy stood with a muscular frame belying his small stature, exuding an aura of both raw combat experience and lingering boyishness.

There was no need for introductions. Kiyoaki knew exactly who he was.

“…Yoshioka Takeo?”

The boy glanced at Kiyoaki and gave a small, reluctant grunt of acknowledgment.

“The Black Rabbit.”

Despite not introducing himself, Takeo seemed to know exactly who Kiyoaki was.

“Nice to meet you. I’m Captain Kiyoaki Sakagami of Valkyrie Squadron,” Kiyoaki said, formally introducing himself.

“…Yoshioka Takeo, First Sergeant, Isla Fleet Second Air Squadron….”

Takeo’s voice was gruff and awkward, as if he wasn’t used to introductions. He quickly turned his sharp gaze back to the crowd, clearly still searching for Illia, dissatisfied with his earlier defeat.

Despite meeting the famed Mad Dog for the first time on the ground, Kiyoaki was surprised by his youthful appearance. Takeo couldn’t have been more than sixteen or seventeen.

“How old are you, Takeo?” Kiyoaki asked.

Takeo glanced back at him, looking slightly embarrassed, before muttering his response.

“…Twenty.”

Yeah, right. There’s no way.

He looked no older than sixteen or seventeen, at best.

“Twenty… huh,” Kiyoaki replied, playing along.

“Yeah. Twenty. Now, where’s the White Wolf?”

Takeo was clearly fixated on finding Illia. Kiyoaki left for a moment to ask a nearby squad member, who pointed him toward where Illia was surrounded by Valkyrie members, receiving a hero’s welcome. After some effort, Kiyoaki pulled Illia from the crowd, ignoring the chorus of boos from his squamates.

Once Illia stood face to face with Takeo, there was a tense silence between them.

“……”

Takeo glared at Illia with an intense gaze.

“……”

Illia, looking uncomfortable, shifted her gaze nervously, unsure of what to say.

“Haha, they’re really staring each other down, huh!” Kal-el laughed, amused by the awkward tension.

“…How did you predict my left-hand roll?”

Takeo suddenly muttered, barely raising his voice. His question was abrupt, and only the upward inflection at the end marked it as a question rather than a statement. But Illia seemed to understand immediately.

“…I could tell by the way you flew. What you call the left-hand roll, we call the Karsten Turn in our country. Captain Sakagami and I once executed the same move almost simultaneously in the past… so I could anticipate your move.”

Takeo bit his lip, clearly frustrated by the explanation.

“…Other than Charles and Kal-el, no one’s ever shot me down before.”

Takeo continued to stare straight at Illia, his cheeks flushing slightly as he mumbled his words.

“And… for someone like….”

He trailed off, swallowing the rest of his sentence. Kiyoaki could guess what Takeo had been about to say, but chose not to push it. Takeo likely realized at the last second that saying it would offend Illia.

But.

“You mean, for such a beautiful woman?” Kal-el, oblivious as always, finished the sentence for him, wearing a bright, innocent smile.

Takeo’s face turned beet-red as he stammered in protest.

“No, no! That’s not what I meant! I wasn’t thinking anything… indecent!”

“Oh, really? Then what were you going to say? For someone like what?” Kal-el pressed, still smiling mischievously.

Takeo’s frustration grew as he balled his fists, clearly on the verge of losing his temper.

Before the situation could escalate, a commotion broke out in the distance. A new group of people had arrived, driving up in jeeps, and the atmosphere around the party grew tense.

Kiyoaki recognized the newcomers immediately, his stomach knotting with anxiety.

He hadn’t decided yet what he was going to say. Should he offer an apology, an explanation, or simply face them with a hardened resolve? Whatever the case, he would figure it out when he saw their faces.

Taking a sip of whiskey, he steeled himself and prepared to approach them. Sanatra, noticing his concern, spoke up.

“They’re here. The Voltec Air Squadron. Their captain’s asking for you.”

“Yeah. I’ll go. Lead the way.”

“And listen—if they give you a hard time, we’re not going to stand by and do nothing, okay?”

Sanatra puffed up her chest, bracing herself for confrontation. Kiyoaki smiled gently at her.

“Thanks, but… if things get ugly, can you just look the other way? As long as they don’t kill me, it’s fine.”

“Still…,” Sanatra began to protest, but trailed off.

"Don't worry about it. If it ends with me getting punched, that's a small price to pay. I’ve done things that warrant that from them."

Sanatra looked at Kiyoaki with discontent, but he brushed it off with a smile and asked her to show him the way. Using the bonfire as their guide, they pushed through the crowd, and Kiyoaki approached the people he once ate from the same pot with, only to later find himself in a deadly confrontation against them.

Memories of the battle with the Voltec Squadron during the defence of Misato came flooding back.

Those kind-hearted people who broke military regulations to rescue Kiyoaki and Kagura when they were captured, Kiyoaki had shot down over a dozen of their planes with his own hands. One thing was clear: they had every right to criticize him however they wished, and no matter what they said or did to him, he had no choice but to silently accept it.

Beneath the starlight—

Captain Leo Rosenmuller greeted Kiyoaki with the same calm eyes he had back when they flew together.

Just from Leo’s stance, Kiyoaki could understand everything he wanted to say.

What echoed in his ears were Leo's parting words at the Odin Air Fortress.

"Listen, if we meet on the battlefield in the future, fight me head-on. Don’t hold back. That’s respect for each other. It’s an homage to the spirit of both Bushido and Chivalry."

"I won’t hold back. I’ll give everything I have to shoot you down. You must promise me, too. If we meet on the battlefield, fight the Voltec Squadron with all your might. Use every ounce of strength to shoot us down."

Looking back on it now, it was because of those words from Leo that Kiyoaki could offer his life to protect the people of his homeland during the hellish defence of Misato. Leo, knowing that they might meet as enemies in the sky someday, had given those words to spare Kiyoaki from unnecessary suffering.

Even without speaking, Leo’s expression, his gaze, conveyed that he forgave and accepted everything. That alone made it hard for Kiyoaki to hold back his tears.

This man truly deserved to be respected more than anyone else, Kiyoaki reaffirmed to himself. Being assigned to a squadron with such a great superior officer for his first posting was something he now realized was his greatest fortune.

Kiyoaki clicked his heels together in front of Leo and saluted.

"It’s been a while, Captain Leo. I’m Captain Kiyoaki Sakagami of the Valkyries."

Without any hint of remorse or excuses, Kiyoaki spoke with a resolute tone and expression directed at Leo.

Leo returned the salute, then suddenly asked him a question.

"Just answer me one thing. Don’t lie."

Leo’s tone was as straightforward as ever, without any emotion, just like it had been in the past. It was the blunt, masculine manner typical of a man from the battlefield.

"Yes, sir."

"Back then, did you intentionally aim for the wing?"

Leo was referring to the dogfight during the defence of Misato. Kiyoaki had been chased by Leo, Lulu, and Lala. With the help of Kagura and Dambazolik, he barely regained his position and fired at Leo’s plane, hitting the right wing. Leo spiralled downward, disappearing from view...

Kiyoaki answered honestly.

"No, I didn’t have that kind of composure."

"......"

"I aimed to kill you, Captain. You evaded, and the shot hit your wing. That’s all."

"......"

Leo remained silent for a moment after hearing the answer, then took a sip of beer. After slowly swirling his glass, he handed it to Kiyoaki.

Kiyoaki accepted the glass and drank it down.

"If I had let you, Lulu, and Lala live, more of my comrades would’ve been killed. That’s why I shot to kill Lulu and Lala as well."

The twin sisters, Lulu and Lala, had been Kiyoaki’s close friends back in the Voltec Squadron, and yet, he had aimed his guns at them and fired. They might be here at the party tonight. What did they think of him now?

After hearing Kiyoaki’s words, Leo let out a breath through his nose, then allowed a small smile to cross his lips.

"That’s fine, then. If you’d come here apologizing, I would’ve punched you... You’ve grown up. You’re now a first-class pilot, far surpassing someone like me."

A bit of warmth crept into Leo’s otherwise stern face.

"It’s not enough. Ever since becoming the captain of the Valkyries, I’ve been constantly reminded of my own shortcomings. I strive every day, recalling your guidance, Captain Leo."

These were Kiyoaki’s true feelings. Since becoming the captain of the Valkyries, he had realized how difficult it was to lead subordinates. Leading a formation into combat, minimizing casualties, achieving the mission objectives, and returning safely—while simple in words, the reality was deep and harsh. Hesitation or mistakes in judgment could lead to the unnecessary deaths of many subordinates. On the other hand, swift and accurate decisions could allow them all to return unharmed. A squadron leader always carried the heavy responsibility of others’ lives with every decision, requiring a different level of intelligence, courage, and decisiveness than simply shooting down enemy planes.

That’s why Kiyoaki’s role model was Leo. While Akmed was his teacher in dogfighting, Leo had been his mentor in formation air combat. During his time with the Voltec Squadron, Kiyoaki had absorbed Leo’s advice, warnings, and decisions during sorties, and now, in his own role, he drew on them to fulfill his duty with all his might.

"I still consider you my mentor, Captain Leo. It truly makes me happy to be reunited with you like this."

Struggling to find the words to express his feelings, Kiyoaki was deeply moved. His father, Masaharu, Akmed, and Leo—he realized how fortunate he had been to have such exemplary figures in his life.

"You’re more than enough. I’m not that great of a person."

Leo awkwardly turned his face away, then spoke to someone behind him.

"So, are you done with this farce? Come on, get over here."

At that moment, Lulu and Lala Scott, who had apparently been hiding behind Leo’s back the whole time, jumped out with big grins and hugged Kiyoaki tightly.

"Kiyoaki!! Long-time no see!!"

"You’ve gotten even cooler!! Oh no, big sis just wants to eat you up!!"

They pressed themselves against him just like old times, cheerfully celebrating their reunion.

"Lulu, Lala..."

Kiyoaki, though taken aback, greeted the two with a smile. The thought of being disliked by them was more painful than being cut to pieces, but neither of them seemed any different from before. In fact, they clung to him more freely than ever.

"Kiyoaki, we thought for sure you’d be too much of a wimp to shoot us down, but you actually did!!"

"You were so cool!! It was like you were attacking us for real!! Oh no, Kiyoaki, you’re so quiet normally, but in the sky, you’re like a wild beast!!"

Although he didn’t quite understand everything they were saying, Kiyoaki was simply happy that the twin sisters treated him just as they had before.

"Yes. I shot you down. I really shot at you."

He only replied that much. Lulu and Lala beamed at him with glittering smiles, giggling together.

"Yeah, we shot at you too! We were dead set on killing you!!"

"Right! I’m so glad we both survived. Now we won’t have to fight anymore, and we can fly together again! Oh yeah, where’s Illia? She’s with the Valkyries now, right?"

"Ah... yes. She should be somewhere around here..."

Kiyoaki scanned the surrounding noise and crowd for Illia. The bonfire was the only source of light, so it was hard to see clearly.

Just like Kiyoaki, Illia also harboured guilt towards the Voltec Squadron.

During the battle off the coast of Misato, after Kiyoaki and Illia had engaged each other and crash-landed on a deserted island, they had been captured by Akmed. Illia, in order to maintain his air combat skills, joined the Valkyries and eventually became the squadron’s vice-captain. Officially, Illia’s transfer was framed as a "friendly detachment" from the Voltec Squadron, so it wasn’t a breach of military law. However, for the Voltec Squadron members who knew the truth, it might have felt like their ace had abandoned them for the Valkyries. Neither Leo nor the twins were small-minded enough to think that way. Kiyoaki believed they would be happy that Illia was flying where she wanted. But he couldn’t be sure about how the other Voltec members felt. As Kiyoaki hesitated over whether to ask, the twins answered his unspoken question for him.

"Illia’s amazing too, right? She joined the Valkyries because you’re there, right, Kiyoaki?! A real love story, huh? So sweet!!"

A loud crack sounded as Kiyoaki’s face froze.

"Well, if that’s the reason, I guess it can’t be helped. She gave up her homeland to fly with the love of her life… sounds like a movie tagline, doesn’t it? I miss Illia, but if you’re the reason, I guess I can accept it."

"Yeah, it’s all about love! Romance in the middle of a war, it’s the best!!"

"Hey, Kiyoaki, have you and Illia done it yet? I mean, even if you’re a wimp, there’s no way you haven’t, right? After all this love, you’ve got to have done it already, right?"

Lulu and Lala clung tightly to Kiyoaki’s arms, refusing to let go. It was clear they wouldn’t release him until he answered their questions.

Kiyoaki, frozen in place with a strained smile, couldn’t move.

Wait, was that really the reason why Illia left the Voltec Squadron?

He hadn’t known that.

"Uh, actually! There’s been a huge misunderstanding..."

For Illia’s sake, Kiyoaki had to clear things up. It would be unfair to let this misconception about Illia leaving for such a trivial reason become accepted as fact.

"Eh? If you’re not the reason, then why is Illia fighting with you and not with us?"

Lulu puffed her cheeks in dissatisfaction, clearly wanting the reason to be as they’d assumed. Kiyoaki tried to explain why Illia had joined the Valkyries, but... he couldn’t find the words.

—Wait, why was it again?

—Why did Illia join the Valkyries?

That question, long buried, resurfaced. Kiyoaki had always thought that Illia had reluctantly stayed with the Valkyries after they were both captured by Akmed and forced into battle, but now that he was searching for a clear reason, it was all a bit vague.

But... what if?

—What if Lulu and Lala’s assumption was correct?

—What if Illia really joined the Valkyries because of me?

A gut feeling whispered that to Kiyoaki, and the realization of such presumptuousness made him shiver. He quickly shook it off and gave the most plausible explanation he could think of for Illia’s actions.

"C-Cecil’s a queen! Well, not Cecil, but Queen Elisabeth... she’s a dear friend from our school days, and Illia joined the Valkyries because she asked her to... that’s all."

As soon as Kiyoaki finished, Lulu and Lala both pouted in unison.

"Eh... that’s boring. You’re saying she values the queen more than us?"

"That doesn’t make any sense. I don’t like that at all. Whatever, let’s go find Illia and ask her ourselves. We’ve got to get to the bottom of this!"

"Illiaaa!! Where are youuu?! We just want to ask you something! We promise we won’t get mad, so come on out!!"

The twins, with Kiyoaki still sandwiched between them, began shouting Illia’s name at the top of their lungs. Kiyoaki hastily tried to calm them down when—

Another group of jeep-like vehicles arrived, and the atmosphere became even more tense than before. Leo’s eyes narrowed slightly, and the twins stopped shouting and exchanged glances. The leader of the Voltec Squadron’s non-commissioned officers, McGuire, approached Leo and reported.

"They’ve arrived, sir. The Kusanagi Squadron. How should we welcome them?"

Leo only nodded, staring into the distance. Kiyoaki instinctively swallowed, and McGuire noticed, giving him a rough smile.

"Hey, Sakagami, long time no see. Heard you’ve climbed the ranks in the Valkyries. Good for you."

He grinned broadly and playfully pressed his knuckles against Kiyoaki’s cheek. Despite the fact that many of McGuire’s comrades had been shot down by Kiyoaki during that fateful battle, there wasn’t a trace of resentment in his words. He was the type of man who had even lent Kiyoaki his own beloved car to help him escape from Odin.

"McGuire, it’s good to see you again. I’m glad we can fight together."

"I heard about Kagura. I don’t believe it. She’s not the type to die that easily."

"...Yes. I don’t believe it either. I’m sure we’ll meet again."

"Good. Maybe the Kusanagi Squadron folks know something about her. We’ll grab a few of them and get the truth out."

Cracking his knuckles, McGuire glared into the night. His tone couldn’t hide the lingering hostility.

The Voltec Squadron and the Kusanagi Squadron.

Two elite squadrons that had clashed in bloody battles during the Second Archipelago War were now joining forces here in Odin to fight Urano.

The plan was to bring together the strongest pilots from across nations to form the ultimate air squadron.

...It was easy to talk about ideals, but the grudges they had to overcome were staggering. Kiyoaki had been accepted by the Voltec Squadron because he knew them from before, but could these past enemies, who spoke different languages, truly forgive one another?

The noisy crowd drew nearer, and Kiyoaki faintly heard the familiar sounds of the Akitsu language. It was said that the Kingdom of Keiken’s financial situation was tight, so they couldn’t send a large detachment, and the advance party seemed to consist of only fourteen or fifteen people.

Who was their leader?

If it was someone Kiyoaki knew, it would make things easier. As he squinted to see, the bonfire’s light revealed a familiar face.

In that instant, his legs trembled.

"Dambazolik…!"

There was no doubt. Leading the Kusanagi Squadron was none other than Jadamba Dambazolik, who had once served as Kiyoaki’s wingman.

—He’s been promoted?

It had been over a year since Kiyoaki left the Kusanagi Squadron. Back then, Dambazolik had been a flight sergeant, but enough time had passed for him to rise through the ranks and command a unit.

Unaware of Kiyoaki, Dambazolik approached Leo and saluted, speaking in fluent St Vault.

"Captain Jadamba Dambazolik of the Kusanagi Squadron. We’ve come at the request of Queen Elisabeth of the Kingdom of Sylvania."

It was clear that Dambazolik had been forged through extreme battles. The simple and straightforward aura he once had was now replaced by an air of sharp, deadly intent that seemed ready to cut through anything.

"Captain Leo Rosenmuller of the Voltec Squadron. We welcome you."

Leo responded with the dignity of a seasoned officer. After a brief exchange of intense glances, Dambazolik declared:

"We recognize Urano as our mutual enemy. The Kusanagi Squadron is here to fight Urano. However, we have no intention of forgiving the Voltec Squadron."

"......"

"We will not fall under the command of the Combined Air Squadron. The fifteen planes of the Kusanagi Squadron will fly in formation under my command alone. If this condition is not met, we will return to the Akitsu continent. What is your answer?"

Leo listened in silence, then shook his head.

"Take it up with the Odin Squadron Commander. I don’t have the authority to make that decision. But personally, if you want to act alone, go ahead. We don’t need people who lower our strength by clinging to petty pride."

Dambazolik’s subordinates, standing behind him, grew enraged at those words.

"Be grateful we even came!! We’re not thrilled about flying with cowards who shoot women and children!!"

The insult was spoken in Akitsu, so Leo’s group didn’t understand, but the tone made it clear that it was some form of derogatory remark. The Voltec Squadron’s non-commissioned officers also bristled with anger.

"Big talk for someone coming onto our turf and acting tough! You know how many of us you killed, Akitsu scum?"

Hostile words flew back and forth, but Dambazolik remained unfazed, the sneer on his face only growing as he turned to face Kiyoaki.

He didn’t even bother to salute this time, instead offering only a sneering smirk.

"A cowardly deserter like you leading the Valkyries? That says a lot about the quality of their squad."

The merciless Akitsu words struck Kiyoaki’s ears. He clenched his fists but did not react.

Dambazolik’s expression grew darker with resentment.

"Captain Kagura was executed. To save the people of Akitsu, she sacrificed her honour and her life, becoming a national traitor to end a futile war. And yet you—don’t you feel any shame?"

Kiyoaki had no answer. He could only listen to the words.

"Rensuke died protecting you... No, he became a shield to protect his family because you were the only one left to defend the skies of Misato. And how did you repay him? You deserted."

Dambazolik glared at Kiyoaki and continued in a low voice.

"You aren’t even worth hitting. I’ll despise you for the rest of my life. That’s all I’ll do."

Kiyoaki had never forgotten the name of Rensuke Nyutabaru. Back in the Kusanagi Squadron, Rensuke had been a non-commissioned officer who, like Dambazolik, served as Kiyoaki’s wingman. He had followed Kiyoaki everywhere, eager to learn his air combat skills. But during the defence of Misato, when Kiyoaki faced Illia and couldn’t pull the trigger, Rensuke became Kiyoaki’s shield and gave his life.

"I won’t make excuses. You’re right—I’m a coward who abandoned his country. I can’t face Kagura or Rensuke."

Kiyoaki met Dambazolik’s gaze directly and said those words.

"To me, the Voltec Squadron and the Kusanagi Squadron are both my family. I couldn’t choose one or the other based on national boundaries... So I ran away to a place where I wouldn’t have to fight either of them. In the Valkyries, I don’t have to point my guns at those I care about. I only have to fight Urano... That’s why I abandoned my country and am here now."

He spoke quietly, expressing his true feelings.

Dambazolik’s expression didn’t change as he stared at Kiyoaki. The affectionate puppy-like demeanour he once had, following Kiyoaki through countless air battles, was long gone. All that remained was the fierce resolve of a warrior who had fought countless times to protect his homeland and his people. He had witnessed the collapse of the federation and continued to fight on with the Kusanagi Squadron, enduring soul-crushing hardships along the way. It was only natural that he hated and despised Kiyoaki for abandoning his country.

A burst of sparks flew from the bonfire between them. The glowing embers sparkled as they drifted on the night wind, passing between the two.

"I will not follow your orders. We fight Urano for our own cause. We may be stationed at Odin together, but don’t think for a second you can command us."

Spitting those words out, Dambazolik turned and walked away without waiting for Kiyoaki’s response.

Kiyoaki had braced himself to receive this hatred. What Dambazolik said was absolutely right. Even so, Kiyoaki was grateful that they had come despite their hatred.

At the field level, Kiyoaki expected more trouble in the future, but if the Kusanagi Squadron could function as allies, taking control of Pleiades would no longer seem like a far-fetched dream. The Kusanagi Squadron was known for its ability to take on enemies ten times their size and still come out victorious. When it came to fighting against overwhelming odds, no one could rival their experience. Their expertise would be indispensable in the upcoming decisive battle, where defeat was not an option...

The Kusanagi Squadron refused to socialize with the other squadrons and quickly retreated to their assigned lodgings, but the party continued. The Voltec Squadron members, many of whom were heavy drinkers, mingled freely with pilots from other squadrons, clinking cups and getting along well. Kiyoaki noticed that Kal-el, Lulu, and Lala had struck up a lively conversation and were laughing together amid the joyful noise.

Eventually, Kiyoaki found Illia. He asked how things had gone with the Voltec Squadron members, and Illia’s face stiffened slightly.

"...I greeted Captain Leo... He treated me exactly as he always did... He is a man worthy of respect, both now and then."

That was all Illia said before falling silent. Kiyoaki waited for her to continue, but Illia remained quiet, staring into the distance, lost in thought.

Kiyoaki wondered how Illia had explained her departure to Leo. Politically, it was said that Illia had been dispatched to the Valkyries to strengthen relations with the Kingdom of Sylvania, but did Leo believe that? Had Illia told Leo such a flimsy reason?

Kiyoaki wanted to ask but held back. He felt it wasn’t his place.

"...They’re all good people. Truly... I’ve been blessed with wonderful people in my life."

Illia broke the silence with a murmur.

"...Even though I left them for selfish reasons... none of the Voltec Squadron members said a single word of blame. Instead, they all greeted me with smiles... It made me feel all the more guilty."

Illia lifted her glass to her lips. It might have contained alcohol, but for now, Kiyoaki didn’t stop her—Illia was speaking openly about her feelings, a rare occurrence.

"...I’m so immature. I haven’t grown at all. No, if anything, I’ve regressed."

Her soft voice trembled as she spoke. Clearly, something was weighing heavily on her heart.

"That’s not true. You’ve become stronger. Just today, we managed to beat Kal-el and Takeo because of you..."

Kiyoaki tried to encourage her, but Illia’s expression remained tense, and she sank back into silence.

"Your father... I’m glad to hear he’s safe."

Kiyoaki brought up the most positive news they’d had recently. About a year ago, when the Imperial capital, Selfaust, had fallen to the forces of the Harmonia Empire, Illia’s father, the former "King of the Skies" Karsten Kreischmidt, had disappeared without a trace. At the time, Illia had adopted a new name and joined the Valkyries, unable to publicly search for her father, though she must have been worried sick. No doubt, Karsten had also been concerned about his daughter. After some time, when Illia was able to operate openly as a Valkyrie, she had inquired about her father’s whereabouts, but with the Empire’s bureaucratic chaos, there had been no leads—until, just recently, surprising good news had come from Air Hunt Island.

"...Yes. It’s just like him... rather than being relieved, I found myself exasperated."

"He moved to Air Hunt Island two weeks before the collapse of the Kukuana Line, right? I bet he’s the only Imperial civilian who managed something like that."

"Maybe it’s the sixth sense he honed on the battlefield. His danger awareness is abnormally high... practically like a wild animal. That’s probably why he was an ace."

Illia’s tone softened slightly. Karsten had imposed a harsh training regimen on Illia from a young age, depriving her of any semblance of a normal childhood, and though Illia must have harboured complicated feelings toward her father, he was still her only family. Her joy that he was alive was evident, even in her subtle expressions.

"I’ve written a letter to him. I tried to explain my decision to fight with the Valkyries as best as I could. Since he lost his right arm, I don’t expect a reply, but... if I survive the final battle, I plan to visit Air Hunt Island to pay my respects, even if I know I’ll get a scolding."

"I’m sure he’ll be happy. As long as you’re alive, I doubt he’ll care which country you’re fighting for."

"Do you think so?" Illia muttered, lifting her gaze slightly. Under her long lashes, her eyes, full of starlight, reflected Kiyoaki.

Suddenly, the words the twin sisters had spoken earlier echoed in Kiyoaki’s mind.

"Illia’s amazing too, right? She joined the Valkyries because you’re here, right, Kiyoaki?!"

His heart thudded.

"No, that’s not it," Kiyoaki denied the thought in his heart, but the rapid beating of his heart sent an intense and frustrating heat coursing through every corner of his body.

He took a deep breath, consciously cooling his thoughts.

With a massive decisive battle looming, tasked with controlling Pleiades and determining the fate of the world, how could he allow himself to be consumed by such base fantasies? Mio is waiting for me in Pleiades. That’s right…

—Mio is waiting for me in Pleiades.

He told himself this, but the next moment, a question suddenly arose from deep within him.

—What will I do after I’ve retrieved Mio?

It was an abrupt, unexpected question that came from inside him.

His gaze dropped to the pinkie finger of his right hand.

There, he wore the "gift" that Fio had brought to him.

It was the ring he and Mio had promised each other.

"We promised to get married, remember!"

"I’m going to be Kiyoaki’s bride!"

"And then, I’ll give you a silver ring, Kiyoaki! That’ll complete the ritual, and our love will be eternal!"

The promises they had made as children in the canola fields of Messus Island’s Odessa echoed in his ears once again.

—Once I retrieve Mio, will we be together?

—Will we get married, just like we promised as kids?

This question, which he had never considered before, suddenly exploded in his mind.

—Am I conquering Pleiades just to be with Mio?

Memories of Mio slowly seeped into Kiyoaki’s heart, flowing through the ring on his finger, beyond his wrist, and into his soul.

The time they had sworn to defeat Urano together, after losing their families to Urano’s ruthless attack on the hill. Their time at the Kanan Officer Academy, where they achieved excellent marks and served aboard the airship, Eriadore, together. How Kiyoaki had risked the lives of everyone aboard the ship for a night-time water landing to save an injured Mio. Their dates at Air Hunt Officer Academy, watching movies together. And when Mio had made him midnight snacks in the officer’s quarters.

Then there was that time they had flown a two-seater bomber on a reconnaissance training mission and encountered enemy aircraft, crash-landing on a deserted island. It was then that Kiyoaki had made an irreparable mistake with Mio. She had denied it, but Kiyoaki’s memory told him the truth of that event. Then, when Urano suddenly attacked Air Hunt Island, Mio confessed she had been a spy for Urano and disappeared from Kiyoaki’s life.

It had been nearly three and a half years since that farewell when Fio suddenly appeared, risking her life to deliver a message from Mio in distant Pleiades. There were no words for Kiyoaki—only this ring. But that was enough for him to understand Mio’s true feelings. Mio was calling for him. So, he vowed to go to Pleiades, conquer the sky city, and bring her back.

But now, he realized.

—What do I want with Mio?

This question, so fundamental yet never considered, now surfaced repeatedly in his mind, gnawing at him, especially while he was standing before Illia.

"Sakagami?" Illia tilted her head slightly at Kiyoaki’s sudden stillness.

He tried to respond with a casual "nothing," but no words came out.

All he could do was stare at Illia under the starlit sky.

His heartbeat quickened again, pounding in his chest, as a frustrating heat raced to the tips of his fingers and toes.

And this time, memories of everything he had experienced with Illia flooded out of him.

Their first meeting on the airship Eriadore. The fact that their fathers were enemies, and how Illia had called Kiyoaki’s father a coward. Sitting side by side in the two-seater cockpit, talking alone for the first time as they flew through a meteor shower. Gripping the throttle together during a night-time water landing, placing their lives in each other’s hands.

During their mock air battle at Air Hunt Officer Academy, Kiyoaki had faced Illia one-on-one, feeling for the first time that their bodies, transcending the aircraft, had merged with the sky. After graduation, they were assigned to the same Voltec Air Squadron, where they had walked together under the stars after Kiyoaki had carried a drunken Illia on his back. That night, Illia had told him, "Mio cried out your name in bed," easing the burden of the scorn Mio had thrown at him during their parting. After experiencing large-scale air battles and losing many comrades, Kiyoaki had held a trembling, exhausted Illia on the aircraft carrier’s deck, vowing to protect her.

And then—the Akitsu Federation had gone to war with the St Vault Empire. Kiyoaki had fled the Empire and joined the Kusanagi Air Squadron in the Federation, where he fought against the Voltec Squadron. After witnessing the massacre of civilians by the Empire’s bombings, Kiyoaki had finally drawn his 20mm machine guns on Illia and pulled the trigger. Though he had fought with the intent to kill, he inexplicably felt as if he could hear Illia’s breathing close by, as if her heartbeat were his own, and their hearts had become one through the sky.

'Forever together.'

Their unified hearts had sung that song amidst the battlefield.

'Never let go.' 'Never let go.'

'I love you.' 'I love you.'

More vividly, more profoundly than any words they had exchanged on the ground, Kiyoaki had heard Illia’s voice resonate in the depths of his soul.

At that moment, Kiyoaki’s inner core had shifted in some irrevocable way.

What he had thought to be unchanging, what should never change, was altered by something new.

And now—

Illia was here, while Kiyoaki was about to embark on a mission to retrieve Mio in Pleiades.

—Mio is calling me. She’s waiting for me.

Fio had risked her life to deliver this ring and tell him so.

But at the same time—

—Perhaps Illia abandoned her homeland to be with me.

Kiyoaki knew it was an arrogant thought, but no matter how he looked at it, even without Kal, Lulu, or Lala pointing it out, Illia had little reason to leave the Voltec Squadron and join the Valkyries. He might be overestimating his importance, but surely the fact that he was in the Valkyries was part of the reason Illia was here.

Mio and Illia.

After conquering Pleiades, how would he deal with these two?

What kind of relationship did he want to have with them?

If he ever found himself in a situation where he had to choose one and cut the other out of his life, who would he choose?

Trembling at the grotesque nature of his own thoughts, Kiyoaki forced himself to confront that ugliness. He stared deeply into the selfish, arrogant, and unkind version of himself—one that was cruel and greedy.

—What do I want?

—Mio or Illia, who do I care about more?

Just asking himself that question tore him apart, body and soul. Yet he forced himself to hurl that question inward, like a whip of self-punishment.

—When my life ends, who do I want to be with, Mio or Illia?

I can’t choose. There’s no way I can choose. I shouldn’t even be allowed to choose.

But if I retrieve Mio, I’ll have to choose between them someday.

When that time comes—

"Sakagami? Are you really unwell? Your face is pale..."

Illia’s words brought Kiyoaki back to his senses.

He realized that cold sweat was trickling down his temples and dampening his palms.

—I’m a coward.

The thought whispered suddenly in his heart.

—I know how both of them feel, yet I pretend not to.

—Don’t I really want both of them?

—Because I can’t choose between them, I’m trying to find a way to avoid being hated by either.

"No."

"Huh?"

Illia looked puzzled, seeing Kiyoaki mutter "no" in response to the inner voice he was fighting.

With the stars behind her, Illia stood under the faint glow of the bonfire, her figure almost cloaked in a shimmering phosphorescence.

Something burned in Kiyoaki's throat, a sensation of something scalded and stuck. He tried to turn that elusive feeling into words, but all that came out was a heavy groan.

"What... what's wrong? You look like you've seen a ghost," Illia said, confused by his expression.

Kiyoaki managed to force a faint smile, barely forming the shape of his lips.

"...Sorry. I think I drank too much. It's strange."

"Are you sure you're all right? You’re not suffering from some kind of nerve condition, are you? That expression... it’s not one I’ve seen before."

"I'm fine, not sick. Just... remembered something that's been bothering me. It's nothing, really, so don't worry."

He struggled to come up with an excuse, brushing it off as best he could. Then, to distract himself, he led Illia around the gathering to greet the Voltec Air Squadron’s non-commissioned officers who were present.

As he exchanged greetings with old acquaintances and shared words of hope about future cooperation, a part of Kiyoaki’s mind was left behind, endlessly ringing with thoughts.

—Am I going to Pleiades with these feelings?

—What kind of face will I show Mio when I see her?

No matter how many times he tried to shake it off, his heart wouldn’t be silent.

—This is the height of dishonesty. It’s cowardice at its worst.

Even when he metaphorically covered his ears, the words continued to echo from deep inside.

And then, the thought he feared the most formed in his mind:

—You already know the truth of your feelings, don’t you?

"Shut up."

—You’ve known the answer all along, haven’t you?

"Be quiet."

"Huh?"

Next to him, Voltec non-commissioned officers Connie and Leon gave Kiyoaki puzzled looks.

He forced a smile, trying to mask his turmoil.

"Sorry, I’m just feeling a little unwell. I need to step out for a bit."

Without waiting for a reply, he quickly turned and walked away, moving briskly through the crowd of revellers, heading for a quiet spot where no one would be around.

—I've weighed Mio and Illia in my heart’s balance, and I know which way it tips.

"Shut up!"

Kiyoaki reached a shadowed corner away from the others, yelling at his own mind.

But that treacherous part of him—the part he wanted to silence—whispered the name of the one who tipped the scale.

"Stop it, shut up!"

He stomped his feet in the dirt, trying to force the voice away.

How despicable. How wretched. How selfish, how feverishly intense this emotion was. This heat threatened to burn away everything he had worked so hard to cultivate.

He wanted to be rid of it.

He wanted to banish this selfishness, flush it out like filth down a drain.

Yet the feeling had spread its roots throughout every corner of his consciousness.

It kept whispering the name of the one he wanted to be with.

It urged him to discard one and embrace the other.

What kind of person am I?

Did I spend all these years honing myself, only to end up like this?

—The one I want to be with for the rest of my life...

—Their name is...

His unruly heart kept repeating the name of the one it had chosen.

Into the infinite stars, into the boundless expanse, his wretchedness, his selfishness, his greed transformed into the sound of a voice calling out to that person’s name, disappearing into the murmurs of the starry sky.

—What kind of person am I? How did I become this?

Tears welled up inside him, and Kiyoaki listened to his own inner self calling that name. He thought that if he stared at it long enough, it might disappear. But the voice, echoing toward the stars, continued to call the name of the one he loved—over and over again.