Toaru Hikuushi e no Seiyaku:V4Part1

Prologue

“It’s undeniable that your departure is fortunate for me. However…”

Simon Berner spoke these words to the retreating back, hesitating a bit on the next part. Should he really say this to a family member with whom he shares blood? For the past twelve years, he had lived with his brother in this distorted mansion, the main estate of the Berner conglomerate, and now they were facing what could be their final parting in this lifetime.

His brother turned only his face to look back at Simon. He carried a single knapsack, much like any commoner. His attire was a shabby hunting suit with tight cuffs and a simple flat cap. He didn’t look anything like the heir of the Berner conglomerate, more like an ordinary person.

Yet, despite his humble appearance, there was an undeniable noble air to his sharp features, as though they might cut at a touch. Pride and stubbornness gleamed in his eyes, which looked down on everything from a slanted, haughty perspective, while a smirk played at the corner of his mouth. Just as Simon sensed the arrival of a sarcastic remark, it came as expected.

“This shack suits someone as ordinary as you.”

Those were not the words of a typical fourteen-year-old boy. Yet, his brother said them, to his own flesh and blood, at a moment like this.

Simon mimicked the gestures of the adults who frequented the mansion, shrugging his shoulders.

“I don’t understand what bothers you. If you just followed Father’s ways, you could live a life of luxury without lifting a finger.”

His brother snorted. That sound alone translated in Simon’s mind to, “That’s exactly the kind of thinking that makes you ordinary.” Ever since he was born, his brother had always thrown such lines at him, so much so that he didn’t even feel frustration anymore.

“Do you have a plan?”

“Do you think I would run away without one? Everything is in place. Father’s capabilities won’t be enough to trace my steps from here.”

Where does this confidence come from? He’s only fourteen, yet he acts like he knows everything about the world. No matter how talented he is, this attitude is exactly why their father and grandfather have distanced themselves from him.

“I can’t understand you at all. I don’t know what you’re dissatisfied with or what you want to do… Even though we’re brothers, we share no values. But I do wish you good luck. It’s not like I hate you. I’m just sorry I couldn’t even be someone you could vent to, despite being your brother.”

His brother smiled faintly. Then, he fully turned his body toward Simon.

“Can I ask you for one favour?”

“Y-Yeah.”

It was the first time his brother had ever asked him for anything. His brother, who always carried all his problems on his own shoulders and solved them alone. Wanting to help, Simon leaned in eagerly.

The favour was far from ordinary.

“Within ten years, build a jet fighter.”

All Simon could do was blink and stare at his brother’s face.

“In the future, whoever controls the skies will win the wars. In ten years, jet fighters will dominate the skies. By that time, military power will be outsourced to private entities. So, you will lead the Berner conglomerate in building jet fighters. Once they’re built, I’ll buy them all. Understood?”

“……”

“I made this request to both our grandfather and father, but it seems their heads are stuffed with sawdust. They couldn’t comprehend my idea. Even if you’re an idiot, at least you try to listen, so you’re still aware of your limitations.”

Being asked by a fourteen-year-old to “build a jet fighter within ten years” isn’t something anyone could immediately agree to. After a minute of silence, Simon finally gave a dry reply.

“I don’t really understand, but within ten years, I need to build a jet fighter. I’ll… remember that.”

“No. Promise me you’ll build it.”

With unusual intensity, his brother demanded an oath.

“Even for you, it will turn into a tailwind. No matter how much others laugh at you, you must build the jet.”

The usual mocking smile vanished, and for once, his brother’s eyes harboured something sincere. It was a look Simon had never seen before, and for the first time, he felt truly acknowledged as a sibling.

“…Got it. Yes, I understand. Because it’s your request, I’ll do my best. I’ll build a jet within ten years.”

“If you break this promise, I’ll kill you.”

“……………………..”

“What’s with that face? What’s your problem?”

“…If I keep the promise, what do I get in return?”

“After I drive the Berner family to ruin, I’ll spare you.”

“………………………..”

“Your strange expression just keeps getting stranger.”

“…Hey, why? What is it that you really want to do? What could be so important that you’d throw away your status for it?”

The sincerity that had been in his brother’s face twisted quickly into a devilish grin. It was the all-too-familiar expression that everyone—parents, grandparents, relatives—hated so much.

From the corner of his upturned mouth, Balthazar Berner’s uncontrollable ambition burst forth.

“I’m going to conquer a country.”

What an idiot.

Even though Simon thought this in his heart, there was no way his voice would reach Balthazar, who now faced the void with that same grin, dreaming of an impossible future.

“I will obtain my own country. For that, I can’t stay satisfied in a rabbit hutch like this forever. I need to meet more people, and see the wider world. To eventually change this world into the form I desire.”

“……”

Simon had no words to respond. The person standing in front of him no longer seemed like his brother, but like someone from another world. Could this man really have grown up in the same family? Could they even share the same blood? Simon found himself doubting the very fundamentals.

“Well, I’m off. You take care, as best you can, in your ordinary way.”

Even his parting words were laced with sarcasm, as Balthazar suddenly left the room like a spring breeze.

The door closed, and Simon was left alone in the vast, empty room. Outside the decorative window, it was already pitch dark. Where on earth was his brother planning to go at such a late hour? Normally, one would come home, crying and begging within a day or two.

If he were normal.

“But my brother… isn’t normal.”

Simon was certain that his brother would never return to this house. The phrase “sovereign individual” might as well have been invented for Balthazar. He couldn’t imagine that the man, who had so carelessly kicked sand at the Berner family’s reputation, would come crawling back without even getting a foot in the door of his grand ambition. If he were to return, it would surely be after achieving his dream of “conquering a country,” just as he had vowed.

“Build a jet fighter within ten years.”

That order now weighed heavily on Simon’s shoulders.

Normally, such a command could be shrugged off as a joke, but Balthazar was not one to joke. If Simon didn’t build the jet within ten years, he might really be killed.

Simon stared at his reflection in the night’s window. His face clearly showed fear. His brother’s arrogant smile loomed over his own insecure expression.

“My brother will conquer a country, and I will build a jet fighter…”

There was no way to avoid being caught up in such an enormous ambition. Even though it was an impossible dream, the fact that Balthazar had said it aloud seemed to spark some kind of fire deep within Simon.

—Maybe it’s possible.

That heat, burning from within, was strangely comforting. Whether it led to heaven or hell, Simon didn’t care. Wrapped in the flame of this dream, he thought, perhaps it wouldn’t be so bad to live his life like this.

“…Change this world into the form I desire…”

Like a man possessed, the younger brother muttered those words to himself.

Part 2: The Second Archipelago War

These colours will soon be lost, never to return. They belong only to this fleeting moment that governs the eastern sky at dawn.

The thin clouds hanging along the horizon, like the mouth of a furnace, burned bright red, and the fresh scarlet overflowed into the ocean, silently bleeding into the ripples. Soon, from that furnace, the red gave way to gold, spilling forth arrows of light that shot across the sky.

At the boundary where morning chased away the night, wings of blue-Gray danced in the air.

Like migrating birds in formation, they descended slowly at an angle into the dawn. Ahead of the steel wings lay a large volcanic island, cutting into the silver sea with its jagged outline.

By the time the sun had lifted from the horizon, bathing the world in brass-coloured light, the wings had returned to Chandler Airfield on Mauregan Island. The pilots of the Red Goat bombers, having completed their routine patrol mission, one by one disembarked from their cockpits.

The canopy of the last Red Goat opened, and a young man, no older than a boy, took off his flight cap. The pristine May morning sun shone down on his still youthful features.

Sakagami Kiyoaki, a candidate for Second Lieutenant in the St Vault Naval Air Force, signalled to the mechanics running toward him that everything was normal. He then leapt down from the wing root to the ground and made his way to the air command post.

After finishing his debriefing to the base commander, Kiyoaki emerged from the command post to find another task awaiting him.

“Stop. We’re taking it here.”

The officer from the public relations department accompanying him gave the order, and Kiyoaki halted his steps. He didn’t even sigh anymore.

“Look that way, toward the morning sun.”

Like a doll, he obediently directed his gaze where he was told. Beside him, Illia Kreischmidt, another candidate for Second Lieutenant, also stared at the camera with an expressionless face that clearly said, “Let’s get this over with already.”

“Look that way. Match your gaze with Sakagami’s.”

The officer outranked them. Illia reluctantly followed the order and directed her gaze as instructed, enduring an excessive number of photos being taken. After changing poses several times in front of the barracks, they finally completed all their early morning duties.

As she watched the backs of the departing officers from the public relations department, now bathed in the high midday sun, Illia spoke in frustration.

“Ridiculous. We’re not animals in a zoo. How much longer do we have to put up with this?”

“It seems like we’ll have to endure it for another year. But thanks to this, we get to fly in planes as candidates, so we should bear with it.”

Kiyoaki tried to calm him down, but Illia’s anger didn’t subside. She was fed up with being subjected to public relations duties and irritated by the officers’ condescending attitude, treating them like objects. Even after being deployed to the battlefield as Second Lieutenant candidates, Kiyoaki and Illia, part of the “Six of Eriadore,” were increasingly expected to act as exemplary “icons.”

It was suffocating. It was displeasing to have their true selves cut away and be showcased across all of St Vault as models of what the military desired in its personnel.

Yet, as Illia had said earlier, it was because of this that they had been assigned to the frontlines and placed in the St Vault Naval Air Force’s most elite combat unit, the “Voltec Air Squadron.” Kiyoaki reminded himself that he had to endure the trivialities and make the most of the opportunity given to him.

“It’s a luxurious setup. Normally, we’d be wasting a year on chores during training cruises. I hate being put on display, but at least we get to see some real action.”

“…Yeah. I’d like to stop getting angry over such trivial things. I want to, but… I just can’t. I’m no good, really, like this…”

Illia muttered as if trying to convince herself. She was often required to smile for the camera, and each time, she reluctantly forced her lips into a crooked grin. It was almost pitiful to watch her try to meet the military’s expectations in her own awkward way.

Kiyoaki smiled. They had been enduring stressful days, and he felt they needed a break.

“What are your plans for tomorrow?”

“Tomorrow? Oh, it’s a rest day. I thought I’d practice a bit of swordsmanship.”

“Sword practice is fine, but how about going out for a change? Reiner and Kagura were talking about heading to the mountains. Apparently, there’s a secret hot spring up there.”

Illia considered the offer for a moment.

“A hot spring, huh? I’ve never been to one.”

“Kagura recommends it. She says it feels amazing.”

“Alright. I’ll go.”

“Then, how about we meet at seven in the morning?”

“Sure. Just don’t oversleep like last time.”

“Sorry, it won’t happen again. See you tomorrow.”

As Kiyoaki waved, Illia lightly waved back before heading off toward the women’s officer barracks. Kiyoaki stretched, then turned toward the men’s barracks to prepare for his afternoon duties.

Now alone, he let out a breath and looked up at the blue sky.

It was a peaceful spring on Mauregan Island, a tranquillity that didn’t seem fitting for the front lines.

In the distance, a range of mountains gently framed the edge of the blue sky. The area around the airfield was an open plain of red earth, with the contrast between the brown land, green mountains, and the blue sky dazzling to the eye.

The scattered forests were filled with thick greenery, and just a few steps in, the smell of damp soil and leaves would greet you. Strange animals would dart through the branches, while large lizards and geckos scurried across the undergrowth, and vividly coloured birds flew overhead.

Higher still, above the birds, large formations of bombers flew in tight formation, their propellers roaring ominously. The sweet scent of oil and the sharp smell of heavy fuel constantly mixed with the wind. Humanity’s destructive activities were steadily encroaching on the untouched natural beauty of the island.

—It’s already been a month since I got here…

The saying often heard in war, “Survive the first month, and you’re a veteran,” wasn’t commonly spoken at Chandler Fortress. Despite being on the front lines, there hadn’t been many opportunities for aerial combat due to the distance separating them from the Hydrabard military base, Sierra Greed, on the other side of the Great Waterfall. If a major aerial battle were to occur, it would be when the enemy’s carrier fleet crossed the waterfall and launched an attack on Chandler Fortress, but there had been no sign of that happening. For now, a relatively relaxed atmosphere enveloped the entire island.

However…

—No one knows when this place might become like Messus Island or Air Hunt Island.

Kiyoaki’s mind was suddenly filled with memories of destruction.

Two flying fortresses of Urano, the “Balsinos” and the “Kalkinos,” hidden within the storm. From those “flying islands,” each as large as Air Hunt Island, swarms of Type 3 Idra fighters had taken off like columns of mosquitoes.

His cadet school and the familiar streets were destroyed helplessly before his eyes.

Both his beloved homeland, Messus Island, and his second home, Air Hunt Island, had been laid to waste twice by Urano, right in front of him.

“I won’t let my guard down again. Never.”

Even his muttering carried a natural intensity. After long years of training, he had finally been allowed to fly a real fighter and enter combat. The conditions were vastly different from the sudden assault on Messus Island, where they hadn’t even been able to take off, or the surprise attack on Air Hunt Island, when he was still just a student.

—The sooner I can stand on the battlefield, the better.

—To stand on the stage where I can change the course of the war with my own hands.

Feeling the fire rise within him, Kiyoaki quickened his pace as he headed back to the barracks.

“Well, I won’t go so far as to say "let’s peek," since we’re not kids.”

Reiner Beck reclined against the rock wall in the milky-white hot spring water, looking up at the blue sky.

“But man, it’s hard to ignore the fact that just thirty steps beyond that bush, there are two beautiful women completely naked, soaking in the hot spring.”

He nudged Kiyoaki, encouraging him to agree, but Kiyoaki shook his head from side to side.

“That’s vulgar. It’s disrespectful to Kagura and Illia.”

“You’re such a good boy. Even after all this time in the harsh military life, you haven’t become jaded. I’m not jealous, but I respect it.”

“We’re officers. We have to act properly. In another year, we’ll be responsible for the lives of our subordinates.”

“You’re so stiff, even in the hot spring. It’s a day off, so forget about that stuff for a while. By the way, between Kagura and Illia, who do you think has the bigger chest? It’s probably Illia, right? She tries to hide it, but it’s pretty obvious she’s got a nice set. Damn, I’d love to confirm it with my own eyes.”

“Hey, stop saying that kind of stuff out loud. They can hear you. I don’t want to be lumped in with you.”

Although Kiyoaki tried to reprimand him, Reiner’s crude remarks didn’t stop. Being a healthy young man himself, Kiyoaki couldn’t help but imagine Kagura and Illia as they really were, their figures flashing briefly in his mind despite his best efforts. He was grateful for the cloudy water and tried to suppress any reactions by imagining something entirely unappealing, like his grandfather cleaning dentures, managing to control himself just in time.

“Instead of saying stupid things, let’s just enjoy the bath. The water’s amazing, isn’t it? Perfect temperature, too. If this were the Akitsu Federation, they’d have built an inn around this spring by now.”

As he said, the quality of the hot spring was excellent. The water clung to the skin with a slimy, viscous texture, and the strong smell of sulphur filled their noses like a stuffed egg. If they were in the Akitsu Federation, this natural hot spring would have long since been turned into a tourist attraction, but here on Mauregan Island, it remained a secluded, secret spot in the mountains that few people visited.

Steam rose from the water, drifting toward the dazzling blue sky. The chirping of birds in the deep mountains could be heard. The green of the May mountains was so fresh and young, it felt as if they were looking up from the bottom of a pristine water tank.

From beyond the bamboo thicket and the rock wall, Kagura and Illia’s faint voices mingled with the sounds of the birds. Though he couldn’t make out their conversation, they seemed to be enjoying themselves. Reiner squinted toward the bushes, grumbling.

“They seem to be having fun. Maybe I really should go peek.”

“We’re not children…”

Kiyoaki rebuked him, trying to keep his thoughts clear and focusing on the serene natural scenery as he soaked in the generous hot water.

Relaxing her body, Kagura Murasaki leaned against the rock wall behind her and floated on the surface of the milky water, gazing straight up at the blue sky.

“This feels amazing. Who would’ve thought we’d get to soak in a hot spring at the frontlines?”

Smiling, she glanced at her companion.

“This is my first time in a hot spring.”

Illia, who had her long hair tied back, sat in the water hugging her knees to cover her chest. She remained in a curled-up, seated posture.

“Relax your arms and legs and let the water carry you. Like this.”

Kagura’s limbs floated gracefully on the surface, like leaves drifting on water, while sunlight filtered through the trees, casting a soft, misty blue light on her. Her figure, bathed in the ethereal glow, looked like that of a forest fairy wrapped in a delicate white aura.

Illia glanced at Kagura and hesitantly mimicked her posture.

Resting the back of her head on the rock, she closed her eyes, relaxed her body, and stretched out her long legs. The buoyancy of the water lifted her naked body to the surface.

—Ah…

She couldn’t help but let out a sigh of relief. The warmth and softness of the water seeped into her body, easing the fatigue from her duties. The tranquillity of the mountains, the refreshing atmosphere, and the distant sounds of unfamiliar birds combined to lull her into a drowsy state.

Just as she was about to drift off, she felt a slight ripple in the water. Opening her eyes slightly, she saw Kagura had risen halfway out of the water and was peering at Illia’s exposed body.

“Eek…!”

Startled, Illia quickly covered her chest with her hands and sat up. Kagura, with a serious expression, nodded.

“Perfect figure. I couldn’t help but admire it.”

“W-what are you doing, Kagura, all of a sudden?”

“This is the first time I’ve felt admiration for another woman’s body. Could you let me see more?”

“Please don’t get any closer. This is really embarrassing.”

“There’s no need to be shy. This is a rare chance. Let’s get to know each other better.”

“W-what…? Kagura, that’s too much!”

“Oh, come on, it’s fine, it’s fine.”

“No, it’s not fine! Ah, no, stop! Stop it…!!”

Illia scrambled away from Kagura, kicking up water as she fled. Kagura, exhaling in satisfaction, reclined against the rock wall, her hands behind her head.

“Your body is the epitome of harmony. I’ve been blessed to witness such divine craftsmanship.”

“That’s disturbing! Please never do that again…!!”

“I got a little carried away. I apologize. Now, could you please turn back around?”

“I refuse. Kagura, you’re acting strange.”

“I’m just teasing. I won’t pounce on you again, so cheer up.”

Illia kept her back to Kagura, though her wary eyes remained on her. Kagura, sensing the need to smooth things over, softened her tone and tried to steer the conversation toward a topic Illia might find more engaging.

“Oh, by the way, I received a second letter from Cecil. It seems she’s made friends at her new school, but she still feels lonely.”

Illia, still keeping an eye on Kagura, responded.

“I also received a third letter from her the other day. She wrote about how she can’t wait to graduate.”

“Kiyoaki and Reiner also seem to have received letters. It would be nice if we could all be together again after graduation.”

“The public relations department probably wants to keep us ‘Six of Eriadore’ together. I think it’s a possibility.”

Despite one member being lost, the “Six of Eriadore” still had strong support from the younger generation. Even though Mio had betrayed them, this only heightened the sense of tragedy surrounding the remaining six, making it easier for the military to dramatize and promote them, garnering even more attention than before. The Navy and Air Force still wanted to use the “Six” to attract more volunteers.

Cecil was currently attending the Selfaust Officer School in St Vault’s capital. She was now a fourth-year student. After the destruction of the Air Hunt Island in September of the previous year, many of the Air Hunt Officer School buildings had collapsed, forcing some students to transfer. Illia, Kiyoaki, Reiner, and Cecil had all transferred to Selfaust, where they were now studying in a new environment.

With Illia, Kiyoaki, and Reiner graduating and being assigned to the Voltec Air Squadron alongside Kagura, Cecil was left behind at school as their junior.

“We’ll meet again next year. Whether or not we’ll still be on this island by then is uncertain. But as long as we survive, we’ll meet again.”

“…Yes. I believe that. We’ll survive, and we’ll see each other again…”

Illia and Cecil were as close as sisters, and being separated must have been difficult for both of them. Though the current war situation was calm, once major operations resumed, there would be no guarantees for their safety. In a moment where no one could be certain they would survive until tomorrow, Illia’s words carried a strong determination to stay alive for Cecil’s sake. Understanding their feelings, Kagura changed the subject once more.

“Oh, by the way, I saw Baltha on my last day off. We had lunch together.”

Illia’s expression turned slightly surprised.

“You met with him? How did you manage to get in touch?”

Balthazar worked at the Operations Headquarters for the Archipelago Region, which was located on the same Mauregan Island as the Voltec Air Squadron. So technically, they could have met, but Balthazar wasn’t the type to meet without a good reason. He tended to avoid unnecessary interactions, especially with people he wasn’t close to.

“I just barged into his office and asked for his address. You know, since both Baltha and I are part of the "Six," the people at the Operations Headquarters were lenient and gave me his address. He lives in an exclusive officers’ dormitory near the coast. The building was pretty elegant. I paid him a surprise visit on his day off, knocked on his door, and he came out unprepared. You should’ve seen the look on his face when he saw me—it was hilarious. I wish I could’ve shown you.”

Kagura laughed heartily, while Illia looked at her with a hint of envy.

“You’re so bold… Weren’t you worried he’d be annoyed?”

“He looked grumpy the whole time, but when I invited him to lunch, he came along, so I guess he wasn’t that bothered. Knowing him, he’s probably an outsider at work too, so he must’ve wanted someone to talk to. We had lunch at a nearby diner and then took a walk along the coast. It was actually pretty fun.”

“Kagura and Baltha, just the two of you?”

“Yeah. We talked about work and the future. Since he’s part of the Operations Headquarters, his perspective is different from the officers in the Air Squadron, which was quite interesting. I could tell you more details if you’re interested—it might be useful for you too.”

“Yes, I’d love to hear it. Please, go ahead.”

Kagura rose from the water and sat on the rock wall. The clean light filtering through the trees gently illuminated her bare upper body.

“When we left the diner and I invited him for a walk, Baltha had that usual sour look on his face, but he ended up coming with me anyway. He tried to justify it by saying he wanted to hear about the inner workings of the Voltec Air Squadron, but we ended up talking about all sorts of other things too. His constant disclaimers of "Don’t get the wrong idea" are basically his catchphrase at this point, and every time he said it, I had to fight back laughter…”

“Don’t misunderstand. I don’t care what happens to you. However, given my position, I come across information that you wouldn’t normally have access to. It’s not classified enough to be top secret, so sharing it doesn’t count as a breach.”

Balthazar stopped on the sandy beach, rattling off the words in one breath before glaring at Kagura. Kagura stopped as well, nodding back at him with a smile.

“Yes, yes, I understand. Since we’ve got this opportunity, let’s exchange meaningful information. So, about this sign of the decisive battle?”

When she asked, Balthazar crossed his arms dramatically over his chest and gazed up at the sky.

The bright May sunlight baked the white sand on the beach. There was no one else around, just the cries of the seagulls flying low in the sky and the sound of the waves washing against the shore. After a prolonged and somewhat theatrical silence, Balthazar turned his gaze back to Kagura, framed by the deep blue sea and sky.

“The Battle of Crossnodal was a victory for us. The Hydrabard ground forces have begun to retreat. The Urano forces’ strategy to land in the Northern Archipelago has crumbled. They attempted to destroy the new fleet at Air Hunt Island and capture Crossnodal with that momentum, but the Hydrabard ground forces were too weak. No matter how much Urano dominates the skies, if their employer’s ground forces are fragile, large-scale island invasions will be difficult.”

Kagura nodded. The news of Urano’s retreat from Crossnodal Island was fresh and had not yet been made public.

“A large island like Crossnodal, where naval bombardments can’t reach the centre, can still resist through its forests and mountains, even if they lose the air and sea battles.”

“Exactly. In a prolonged battle, since Crossnodal is close to our homeland and has calm seas, we can send reinforcements quickly and continuously. On the other hand, Urano and the Hydrabard Alliance, cut off by the Great Waterfall and far from their homeland, must maintain long supply lines. The longer the battle drags on, the more the tide turns in our favour.”

“So, for the time being, the Northern Archipelago is safe?”

“Defending the North Sea alone won’t win the war. We need to cross the Great Waterfall ourselves, land in the Southern Archipelago, and take Sierra Greed on Santos Island. The problem is Urano’s flying fortresses. Because of them, we can’t make a move in the southern seas.”

“The threat of the flying fortresses… we learned that lesson well at Air Hunt Island last year. They’re like fleets that can’t be sunk, no matter how much they’re attacked. Being told to capture one sounds pretty impossible…”

Of the twelve flying fortresses that Urano possessed, four had been dispatched to the Archipelago, including the “Balsinos” and “Kalkinos,” which had destroyed Air Hunt Island. Without a way to counter these “flying islands,” St Vault had repeatedly suffered humiliating defeats.

“Research on how to capture a flying fortress is progressing. The plan is to disable their airfields and anti-air facilities before landing. Unlike island assaults from the sea, we can’t use landing craft. The only option is to load airborne troops onto large hovercrafts capable of hovering and drop them down, but we’ll need a substantial number of hovercraft and airborne troops to subdue the vast surface of a flying fortress. Preparations for that are underway.”

“So, landing craft escorted by destroyers charging in on the surf isn’t possible. It’s going to be a brutal battle.”

“The hardest part will be securing a forward base. Surrounded by enemies, we’ll have to quickly establish a beachhead. This is where air superiority fighters—your Voltec Air Squadron—play a crucial role.”

“Yes. We’ve run several exercises for securing air superiority around the flying fortresses. The challenge, compared to regular island fortresses, is that the target is always moving, and we have to watch for attacks from underneath as well.”

“There’s no precedent for capturing a flying fortress, so we’re feeling our way through everything. But without neutralizing them, there’s no chance of victory in the Hydrabard War.”

A heavy feeling settled in Kagura’s chest. The twelve flying fortresses were what made Urano the rulers of the skies. As Balthazar said, unless they could neutralize the four floating over the Archipelago, the chaos there would never end.

Capturing one of these “flying islands,” each the size of Air Hunt Island, would require the mobilization of 20,000 to 30,000 troops. Just transporting that many soldiers onto the surface of a fortress from the sky would be a monumental task, not to mention the casualties that would likely exceed those of a typical amphibious landing operation.

“In any case, we won’t stay on the defensive forever. The destruction of Air Hunt delayed us significantly, but a major invasion operation should begin soon. Don’t let your guard down.”

“Thanks. I appreciate the valuable information. By the way, Baltha, I know this is sudden, but…”

“Hm?”

“How are you doing at work? I was a little worried that, knowing you, you might be somewhat of an outsider there.”

Balthazar frowned briefly before glaring at Kagura’s smiling face.

“I don’t need you to worry about that.”

“Sure, but I was thinking, since you’ve made such a big name for yourself, there might be some jealousy from others.”

“That’s nonsense. Let them be.”

Balthazar snorted and dismissed Kagura’s concerns, turning his face away.

During the summer of the operations, Balthazar had been the only one to predict and report on Operation Judeka in advance. None of the elite strategists at the Operations Headquarters had seen it coming, but a single intern had cracked the enemy’s plan in one night. This earned Balthazar even greater fame than he already had as the leading figure of the “Six of Eriadore.” His prediction was reported extensively in the media, with newspapers and magazines calling him the “future Chief of Staff of the St Vault Army.” Word of his sudden rise in status had reached Kagura, along with rumours that his colleagues at the Operations Headquarters were jealous and had begun harassing him.

“Is there jealousy? Among the men?”

“I couldn’t care less. It’s the work of lowly people. I only pity them.”

From the tone of his voice, Kagura could tell Balthazar was putting on a brave face. Despite his tough exterior, it was unlikely that Balthazar, a newly minted second lieutenant, wasn’t affected by the resentment and harassment from higher-ranking officers.

“You’re strong.”

Kagura dropped her usual smile and looked seriously at Balthazar’s profile.

“Strong or weak doesn’t matter. It doesn’t affect me.”

“…Yeah. That’s just like you.”

“What are you laughing at? What’s so amusing? You look creepy.”

Still frowning, Balthazar shot a sideways glance at Kagura’s smile.

Kagura took a small step toward him. She was now close enough that if she lowered her head, her forehead would touch his chest. Looking up at his grim face from up close, she spoke again, seriously.

“Maybe it wouldn’t hurt to lean on someone once in a while.”

“What are you talking about?”

“You’re not as cold as you think you are.”

“What did you eat? Have you been drinking? Go dunk your head in the sea and cool off.”

Balthazar, unusually flustered, turned away from her, facing the ocean to avoid her gaze.

The waves washed over their feet as two white birds flew off together toward the horizon.

With a playful tone, Kagura called out to Balthazar’s back.

“You’re interesting.”

Balthazar glanced back slightly, narrowing his eyes.

“Are you trying to compliment me or mock me? Which is it?”

“Who knows? I don’t even know myself. What do I want, I wonder?”

Smiling, Kagura shrugged, clasping her hands behind her back before turning on her heel.

“Well, I should be heading back. Thanks for the meaningful conversation today.”

Balthazar snorted again, shoved his hands into his pockets, and turned his eyes back inland.

“Don’t ever show up unannounced again.”

“Alright. I’ll make sure to contact you before I visit next time.”

“…You plan on coming again?”

Kagura tilted her head and made a small request.

“Is that a problem?”

“…You’re impossible. Do whatever you want.”

With those parting words, Balthazar turned his back on her and began walking home alone. Kagura, with a slight smile, jogged after him, following his retreating figure.

“…And so, it was really fun. I think Baltha enjoyed it just as much.”

Kagura finished her story and sank back into the hot water, up to her shoulders.

Feeling slightly overheated, Illia stood up, covering her front with a towel, and sat down on the rock wall.

“…I didn’t know you two were that close.”

“We’re not particularly close. But we’re classmates, and it feels odd to ignore someone who’s on the same island. Plus, teasing him is amusing.”

“Is that so… I thought Baltha was highly regarded at Operations Headquarters, given that he was the only one to foresee Operation Judeka beforehand.”

“He’s too talented and lacks charm. I’m sure the senior officers find him difficult to deal with. He always had a certain shadow about him, but over the past year, that shadow has grown even darker.”

Kagura laughed again.

“I’m sure Baltha was happy too. He never would’ve gone for a walk with anyone during our school days.”

“True. Next time, why don’t you join us, Illia? He’ll probably make a displeased face, but deep down, I’m sure he’ll appreciate it.”

“…Yes, if he agrees to my presence. Besides, it wouldn’t hurt to know more about future operations…”

Illia nodded, looking toward the trees.

—Kagura always seems so happy when talking about Baltha.

That thought crossed Illia’s mind. Kagura always lived with a bright and cheerful demeanour, but she seemed to shine the most when she was teasing Balthazar. Perhaps their personalities aligned more than one might expect.

“I’ve been talking too long. Shall we get out? Staying in too long might make us dizzy.”

“Yes, I feel much more relaxed.”

The two got out of the hot spring, dried off with towels, and put on their civilian clothes. Kagura called out through the bushes.

“We’re coming out now!”

“Okay! We’re already done here!” Reiner’s reply echoed back.

“You didn’t come peeking after all?”

“I thought about it, but since Kagura has a sword, I decided against it!”

“Too bad for you! I got a full view of Illia!”

“And I saw all of Kiyoaki!”

Kagura and Reiner shouted nonsensical banter back and forth across the bushes, while Illia, looking exasperated, watched from the side.

After reuniting with Kiyoaki and Reiner, the four of them rode their bikes down the mountain road and arrived at a seaside restaurant. The log cabin-style interior was bustling with soldiers on leave, reflecting the war economy of Mauregan Island. As Kiyoaki and the others entered the restaurant, naturally, the eyes of the non-commissioned officers and soldiers turned toward them. As members of the well-publicized “Six of Eriadore,” their faces and names were well known, even to soldiers from other units.

They were greeted and received casual remarks from those they passed. There was no strange prejudice or discrimination toward Kiyoaki and Kagura, who were from Akitsu, and the atmosphere remained warm and relaxed, without the stiff formality that would come if any officers were present. Kiyoaki and the others, dressed in civilian clothes, fit in well.

“The most popular one is Illia, I think.”

As they sat at a table for four, Kagura smiled and said this. Illia shook her head with a stern expression.

“I don’t understand.”

“They expect you to be the next ace, and besides, you’re beautiful.”

“…I don’t understand.”

Repeating the same words, Illia lowered her gaze, clearly uncomfortable. Despite her protests, the soldiers seemed happiest when speaking to Illia. Some even pulled out notebooks and asked for her autograph.

“They really admire you. Next year, when you’re a second lieutenant, you’ll be even more popular. With your skills, you’ll probably be leading a squadron soon. I wouldn’t mind being one of your subordinates.”

Reiner grinned, but Illia glared at him sharply.

“Reiner, you’ll also be leading subordinates next year. Joking about wanting to be your classmate’s subordinate is inappropriate.”

Reprimanded directly, Reiner chuckled awkwardly.

“Your popularity won’t last long. Once they see your scary side after three days, the troops will be terrified of you.”

“I don’t care. I’m not leading to be liked.”

After firmly declaring her stance, Illia glanced at the menu and nodded.

“I’ll have a cheeseburger.”

Kagura, intrigued, asked with interest.

“Reiner might be right. When you and Kiyoaki become second lieutenants, it won’t take long for you to be entrusted with leading a flight of three planes. Do you have any role models for a squadron leader?”

“A role model…? I’ve never really thought about it…”

Illia fell silent, deep in thought. Beside her, Kiyoaki lifted his gaze upward.

“I’d like to say my father, but he never talked about his experiences in battle… So, I admire someone like Master Akmed. He’s strong both as an individual pilot and as a squadron leader. The fact that he excels at both is amazing.”

“Yes, the abilities to engage in solo combat and to lead a squadron are quite different. Even if someone isn’t great at aerial combat, they can still be a great squadron leader and take down a powerful enemy by coordinating many planes.”

“Yes, I admire squadron leadership, but before that, I want to improve my solo combat skills. You can’t be a squadron leader unless you’re recognized for your aerial abilities first. I’ll think about leadership once I get there.”

“That’s fair. It may be a little early to focus on that. But it’s interesting. How about you, Illia? You seem to be thinking about it quite seriously.”

Illia had even crossed her arms, deeply considering her answer. Perhaps it was the first time she’d really thought about what kind of squadron leader she would become.

After a long pause, Illia finally spoke in a low voice.

“To be honest… I’ve never imagined myself as a squadron leader. I’ve always pursued individual strength. I believed that if I became strong, my squadron would naturally follow.”

“That’s a valid approach. I think it suits you, Illia.”

“…What about you, Kagura? What kind of squadron leader do you want to be?”

“I… hmm. I’m not as skilled in aerial combat as you two, so I’d like to be a leader who accurately understands the overall situation and can give precise commands… or at least, that’s what I hope for…”

Her voice trailed off, and Kagura gave a somewhat troubled smile.

“Honestly, I’m anxious. It’s been a month since I became a second lieutenant, and I wonder if I’ll truly be able to lead my subordinates properly when I’m entrusted with them in battle.”

Kagura’s words were uncharacteristically filled with doubt. Kiyoaki leaned forward, speaking with enthusiasm.

“Kagura, you’ll be fine! Sure, maybe things won’t go perfectly at first, but with experience, you’ll definitely become a great leader!”

“Thank you. Yes, I want to gain experience. But the thought that, in the process of becoming skilled at command, some of my subordinates might become casualties… That weight is terrifying.”

Her voice lacked confidence. It was a side of Kagura they had never seen before. The month spent as an officer had clearly affected even someone as carefree as Kagura.

The responsibility of leading others.

The difficulty of carrying the weight of others’ lives was something they had been taught since their days at the officer academy. It was the officer’s job to carry as many of their subordinates safely through the extremities of battle. They understood this intellectually, but only now, standing on the real battlefield, did they begin to grasp the true weight of that responsibility. Even Kagura, who usually carried herself with ease, seemed burdened.

In individual combat, a mistake could be paid for with one’s own life. But in squadron combat, the leader’s mistakes could cost the lives of all their subordinates. Kagura’s fears weren’t just her own; Kiyoaki knew that he, too, would have to face the same responsibility in a year’s time. Tightening his expression, he spoke with determination.

“Kagura, you’ve performed excellently so far, and you’re well-liked by the Voltec Air Squadron. Just be confident, and no one will complain.”

Illia nodded in agreement.

“There’s never been a perfect leader from the start. Even the greatest commanders in history built their reputations on the sacrifices of many subordinates. As an officer, it’s inevitable that some subordinates will be lost.”

“Yes, I understand that logically. But when I’ve spoken with the soldiers and non-commissioned officers, I’ve come to know them as people, and I realize that each one has family and friends depending on them. That weight isn’t something I could prepare for from a textbook.”

Kagura’s eyes dimmed. Kiyoaki and Illia exchanged concerned glances, unsure of how to respond.

After they placed their orders, Reiner, still grinning, spoke up.

“There’s no point in worrying about it too much. It’s war, people die, that’s normal. If we make mistakes, we officers die too. It’s the enemy killing our men, not us. It’s not our fault.”

Reiner’s casual statement seemed overly simplistic, and Kiyoaki was about to object, but upon reflection, he realized that, despite Reiner’s nonchalant attitude, his words might have been exactly what Kagura needed to hear.

Kagura smiled faintly.

“Yes… sorry, I didn’t mean to worry you. I know I just need to be resolute.”

“Kagura, you’re actually really kind, aren’t you? You always talk about slashing things, so you seem scary, but deep down, you’re kind.”

“I don’t always talk about slashing things… But this isn’t kindness, it’s just cowardice. Sorry to dampen the mood on a day off. Let’s talk about something fun. Oh, I was telling Illia earlier, I recently met up with Baltha…”

Kagura, in an effort to change the mood, forced a smile and started talking about her recent encounter with Balthazar. Kiyoaki couldn’t help but think that Kagura truly came alive when she was teasing Balthazar. And as they continued talking, a thought naturally took root in his mind.

—I’d like to be Kagura’s subordinate.

If he had to entrust his life on the battlefield, he’d want a leader like Kagura—someone compassionate, brave, and committed to doing her best. He realized it wasn’t just him. In the near future, everyone who served under Kagura would likely feel the same way.

After their enjoyable meal, night had fallen, and Kiyoaki and his companions returned to the barracks. They shared the room with eight other second lieutenants. It was quieter and more comfortable compared to the prefab huts where the non-commissioned pilots slept, which housed around twenty people per unit. There was no set bedtime, so they had the freedom to stay up late if they wanted.

Kiyoaki lay on his bed alone, reading the latest research book on aircraft. The book discussed a new fighter plane being developed by the St Vault Naval Air Force’s aviation technology division, which was equipped with a more powerful turboprop engine, an improvement over the traditional reciprocating engine. With a goal of reaching a top speed of 750 kilometres per hour, it was possible that, once deployed in combat, it could make an individual fighter capable of scattering entire enemy forces, like the legendary heroes of old.

—This war is on the verge of a major turning point.

Kiyoaki and Illia were stirred by Balthazar’s talk with Kagura about the “next big operation.” It had been a month since they had arrived at the frontlines, and they hadn’t yet experienced any significant battles, leaving them feeling restless. Imagining himself flying in real combat and bringing down Urano filled him with determination.

His gaze drifted to the bedside table.

Officers were allowed to display personal items on their bedside tables, and Kiyoaki had placed a photo frame there.

In the picture, the “Seven of Eriadore” were smiling.

It was taken in front of the auditorium at the Air Hunt Officer School when Kagura and Balthazar had graduated.

The great auditorium, which had since been destroyed in the bombing of Urano, still stood intact in the photo, with its orderly red brick walls preserved.

And—Mio was there too.

Sandwiched between Illia and Cecil, looking a bit uncomfortable, Mio stared slightly above the camera with an awkward posture.

Kiyoaki’s heart ached.

An unrelenting pain welled up from his heart and spread to every cell in his body.

“Mio…”

Seeing that no one was around, he quietly called her name, looking at the photo.

“Where are you now?”

Of course, there was no answer.

“What are you doing?”

But he couldn’t stop himself from speaking to her.

“I want to see you.”

His honest feelings spilled out in words.

It had been nearly eight months since their farewell.

"I’m a traitor. A spy for Urano."

Those words, spoken as they parted on the day Air Hunt Island was destroyed, echoed in his mind.

"I leaked all the information about this island to Urano."

"Oh, and by the way, my dad did the same for Messus Island. He leaked all the information to Urano, which is why Odessa Fortress was so easy to capture."

"Everything I ever told you was a lie."

Mio’s words were like blades, tearing Kiyoaki apart from the inside. Invisible wounds, thousands upon thousands, layered over each other, burning his thoughts.

—Messus Island’s invasion was orchestrated by Mio’s father?

—Then… the ones who killed my family… were Mio’s family?

That dark thought threatened to awaken feelings of hatred. The kind faces of his gentle parents and beloved sister flashed behind his eyelids, superimposed over the burning memory of Messus Island.

—No. It’s not true. Mio’s family wouldn’t do something like that.

But there was no way to confirm his doubts anymore. All Kiyoaki could do now was ask the unmoving photo of Mio the same unanswered questions over and over again.

If only he could see her.

If only he could talk to her.

Maybe then he could cleanse himself of this pain, this helplessness.

“I want to see you, Mio.”

Once again, Kiyoaki whispered the same prayer he had uttered thousands of times before. An overwhelming sense of emptiness filled every cell in his body, threatening to drag him into a state of self-destruction.

"Mission complete. I’m heading back to Pleiades."

If her final words were true, Mio should be in Pleiades.

That meant if he continued chasing Urano, eventually capturing Pleiades, he might be able to see her again.

It was a small fragment of hope. But it was all he had.

“We’ll meet again. We will… I’m sure of it.”

Kiyoaki muttered to himself, trying to lift his spirits, as he gazed out the window at the night sky. Somewhere in this vast sky, Mio was out there, still working for Urano, and the thought of it made his heart burn with a pain that was almost unbearable.