Mahouka Koukou no Rettousei

Volume 20 - Ch 6

This chapter is updated by Novels.pl

Finally, it was March 28.

Miyuki's public affairs as heiress of the Yotsuba family ended yesterday. For today, it is planned to attend the party at the invitation of a friend, and Tatsuya should go with her for the company.

... This is an official timetable.

However, the main task for today is the work entrusted to the current head of the Yotsuba family. Initially, the job entrusted was to contribute to the successful holding of the party, stopping the sabotage.

-Miyuki-sama arranged an arrangement for her presence at the party, but now it has become unnecessary. - Shirakawa, the butler with a soft smile, sent by the head of the Yotsuba family, said.

He has the 6th rank among 8 butlers and is not in the top three with access to Yotsuba's secrets.

However, these were secrets, except for the head of the family, only a handful of people from the main and secondary families, rank 1 among the butlarians - Hayama, rank 2 - Hanabishi, rank 3 - Kurebayashi, as well as engineers associated with the central object of the former Fourth Laboratory. But this did not mean that from the 4th rank, butlers, including Shirakawa, did not know the facts about the rest of Yotsuba's activity, hidden from the world.

Shirakawa also had the necessary knowledge to support the fulfillment of the mission. That's why he was sent here.

"However, it is difficult to judge whether Tatsuya-sama's participation in the party is necessary or not.

Tatsuya could not blame Shirakawa for lack of attention, as the main representative of the reinforcements sent. After all, Miyuki is looking forward to Tatsuya accompanying her there, so he was a little upset.

"I'm sure that the enemy's activities will be extremely limited, because this time we know when and where their target is." Support is also good.

These were arrogant words. But these were Tatsuya's real thoughts. However, not only Miyuki, but Minami and Shirakawa knew that these arrogant words did not carry pride in themselves.

Knowing the attacked object and not taking any measures, the enemy will be able to defeat by force only if the defense forces are limited. This does not apply to the present case. Since there was no need to look for where the enemy was hiding, it was easy for Tatsuya.

Tatsuya and the rest were now on a yacht prepared by the Yotsuba family. Immediately after the incident of Yokohama, predicting that the work at sea will be greater, the second rank among the butlers of the main house Hanabishi ordered it at the Nagasaki shipyard, and arrived yesterday in Okinawa for assistance in the current mission. Looking like a yacht for leisure, it was a "wolf in sheep's clothing," a high-speed ship stuffed with equipment for battles.

- We leave.

This time, at the helm was Shirakawa. Both Tatsuya and Minami were technically able to manage, but only Shirakawa had a license to operate small vessels capable of entering the open sea, at a time when Tatsuya was not due to age restrictions.

In addition, Tatsuya should focus on intercepting the enemy, and Minami should always be next to Miyuki as an escort at the party. Shirakawa's management was a natural choice.

- Good.

After Miyuki gave her permission, Shirakawa started the engine of a fast boat disguised as a yacht. The departure was so soft that there was no movement at all.

Three days ago the ship, borrowed from the army by Joseph, was convenient, but this fast boat was more comfortable.

Apparently, this was achieved with the help of some magical trick. The ship itself was a magical device, similar to a weapon with integrated

CAD. Tatsuya with his perception found another servant Yotsuba, who, apparently, got on board as an engineer to activate the magic, relieving the pitching and vibration.

An ordinary plane from the main island of Okinawa to the island of Kume flies about three hours, but the speed boat reached the port in the east of the island in two hours.

"At maximum speed we would have reached an hour, but I chose the movement with maximum comfort." Said the butler of Shirakawa.

They did not go directly to the artificial island "Saikashin", but arrived on the island of Kume, because the party will begin in the evening, and now there is still no noon.

-Miyuki.

-Tatsuya-san!

Shizuku and Honoka were waiting in the port. Miyuki informed them in advance about the planned time of arrival.

- Honoka, Shizuku. Did you come to meet us?

Miyuki did not tell Tatsuya that she had sent a message to the two. Although for him the appearance of Honoka and Shizuku was unexpected, but he was not surprised. Perhaps because he was thinking about such an opportunity? Or unconsciously thought that this does not affect his work? At least he did not think about Honoka and Shizuku that "it does not matter whether they need it or not."

"Have you two already had lunch?" If not, how about joining us?

Here he got to the point, because they themselves wanted to say it.

- Of course! Certainly! With joy!

"Honoka, you're overexcited." ... We also were going to have a snack.

Tatsuya hardly smiled noticeably, looking at the ready dance with the enthusiasm of Honoka, and embarrassed by the unexpected offer of Shizuku. It was a kind smile, and not that ironic expression with a tight smile, which he used to demonstrate from the first days after admission to high school.

On the advice of Honoka, they took the "Shrimp hamburgers." Honoka justified her choice by the fact that the party will be in the style of receiving guests with a buffet with expensive food, so it's better to eat something simple in the daytime. There were hamburgers with shrimps of two kinds of frying, fries and saute. Five people (Tatsuya, Miyuki, Honoka, Shizuku and Minami) took one hamburger, cut it into pieces, and tried food that is hard to get in Tokyo.

"By the way, Tatsuya-san, where are you going to change?"

For dessert thereafter, there was the Okinawa zenzay (shredded syrup with grated ice), during which Shizuku asked Tatsuya while looking at

Miyuki. Shizuku was probably worried that they, staying at a hotel on the main island of Okinawa, nowhere to change clothes. It was really a topical issue.

-If you want, there is a beauty salon nearby.

-Thank you. But everything is in order. We change our clothes on the yacht.

However, for Miyuki everything was already provided. Although not as good as in a beauty salon, but on a yacht (a disguised speedboat), a cabin with a full-length mirror and accessories for make-up was allocated for this business. So she could go to the party right from the ship.

Tatsuya felt anxious, is this enough when he heard this question.

"Miyuki, why do not you accept Shizuku's offer, because she tried for us."

Tatsuya believed that Miyuki is incomparable in beauty and without makeup specialists. And also thought that if the expert is unprofessional, it can even spoil the charm of Miyuki. Because of this subconscious thought, he did not even think of reserving a place in the beauty salon on the main island of Okinawa or on the island of Kuma.

However, the specialist who hired Shizuku is unlikely to be a "layman". Most likely it will be a first-class specialist, who at least somehow, but can still improve the image.

Miyuki felt Tatsuya's unconscious mind.

"If Tatsuya-sama says so, then ... can I ask that?"

-Yeah, good. - Without showing any irritation, Shizuku answered Miyuki, who had rejected her previous words. - Minami too.

Hearing an unexpected name in Shizuku's speech, spoken in an address to Miyuki, Minami looked at Tatsuya.

"It would be nice to take care of Minami too."

Pushed by his principle of necessity to give an immediate answer, Minami with the words "Yes, please," bowed to Shizuku.

At 2 pm Tatsuya took a taxi to Miyuki's and Minami's dresses at the hotel where Shizuku stopped. And when the preparation was over, Miyuki contacted him two hours before the party, at 16:30. The waiting time was unexpectedly short. Quicker than expected, Miyuki returned from a first- class stylist who prepared the proper image for the party to. No, better to say, not ashamed of the beauty of Miyuki, he showed his talent. It can be said that managing at two and a half hours is a pretty quick result.

However, also the fact is that there is not much time left. Having met Miyuki with Minami, Tatsuya decided to go immediately.

In addition, Shizuku and Honoka said that they plan to go to the venue of the party by helicopter. The artificial island "Saikasin" was built 30 kilometers west of the island of Kume. The helicopter will fly there for 10 minutes. These two (especially Honoka) were persistently called to go together by helicopter.

Indeed, with the presence of a helicopter, you do not have to worry. However, for the convenience of his present work, Tatsuya could not accept the offer of Honoka and Shizuku. Miyuki cannot act separately from Tatsuya, Minami's job is to protect Miyuki. In such circumstances, these three led by Tatsuya returned to their fleet and headed for an artificial island.

When Miyuki and Minami were preparing for the party, Tatsuya did not sit around too. He visited a military base in the north of the island, where he met with Kazama and gave him the latest data on the location of James J. Johnson, obtained by the "Elemental Sight." After the meeting, he flew around the artificial island on the reconnaissance aircraft of the Air Force, checking the situation both with his own eyes and with his "eyes."

He returned to the eastern port at 4 pm. He quickly changed into a costume for a party and went to pick up Miyuki with Minami.

This compressed schedule was tiresome for Tatsuya. Although it would be a little easier, if there was not lunch with Honoka and Shizuku, but he was not going to complain about it. And the fact that he was able to finally take a breath when the boat went off was not a sham.

Tatsuya took off his jacket, hung it on the hanger, and sat in a chair in the cabin. Although it was not a sofa, the chair was with a soft high and wide headboard back, giving a feeling of complete comfort.

For a moment, the thought came to his mind that the suit might have been wrinkled, another change of clothes would be a problem. But he stayed in the chair.

"Onii-sama?"

No one answered the knock. Surprised that there was no answer to either the knock or the voice, Miyuki carefully opened the door.

-Oh! Involuntarily making a surprised sound, Miyuki covered her mouth with both hands. It was not noticeable that Tatsuya woke up. Relieved, putting her hand to her chest, Miyuki entered Tatsuya's cabin, trying not to make noise.

To see this defenseless sleeping face was happiness for Miyuki. She knows. Even during a strong sleep Tatsuya feels signs of activity around him. Even in a dream, he is always ready for battle.

He still has not woken up just because he does not consider Miyuki an enemy in every sense of the word. This was evidence that Tatsuya fully trusts Miyuki and sees no reason to defend himself against her.

Miyuki advanced further, closer to Tatsuya.

Looking back, she was convinced that the door was tightly closed. Still worrying, she looked around several times, then calmed down, as if realizing what her behavior looked like from the outside. Closing her eyes and putting her hands to her chest, she regained her breath. Opening her eyes, holding the hair with one hand and the edge of the skirt with the other hand, Miyuki slowly brought her face closer to Tatsuya.

Two days before the competition of dissertations, in October of the year before last. Late in the evening two days before that incident of Yokohama. Remembering her failure in a similar situation when her hand slipped, Miyuki supported her body, not touching the handrail chair on which Tatsuya sat.

Meanwhile,

Lips of Miyuki approached Tatsuya's lips.

There was still no sign that Tatsuya was awake.

The distance was even less than when the breath starts to mix,

Probably less than a millimeter remained.

Miyuki, closed her eyes tightly,

And suddenly turned around, ran away from the cabin Tatsuya, blushing to the ears.

Saikashin has an underwater mining plant on the ocean floor, and itself is an octagon of the right form, floating afloat on 12 cylindrical pontoons, and also having 4 pipes as a route for lifting the ore. The artificial island platform itself is a five-layered structure divided into residential areas, among which there is a luxury hotel for the guests of the island.

Today's party will take place in the banquet hall of the hotel, located in the first layer on the top ("floor") of the platform. 30 minutes before the opening ceremony, invited guests one by one gathered in the lobby in front of the banquet hall.

-... I'm sure I will not be unnecessary here? - Sayaka said, looking at the crowd of gentlemen and ladies in expensive clothes and with expensive accessories, which showed their high social status, although she did not understand this.

-Everything is fine. Mibu-san, you really are.

-Is it true?

Even Azusa's words were not convincing for her, Sayaka nervously fingered the tip of her stole. [cape on the shoulders, such as a scarf]

-Excessive experiences, Sayaka. As you can see, there are other students besides us. In addition, this party is not the main event of this trip. You need to discard superfluous thoughts and come off to the fullest.

"D-really."

"Sayaka finally calmed down when she heard words of enthusiasm from Kanon. As Kanon said, in the lobby everywhere you could see young people aged 20-25 years, as well as girls who look like their peers.

Suddenly, Sayaka's and Kanon's eyes attracted their cohays, descending the stairs to the lobby.

- Chiyoda-sempai, Mibu-senpai, you came early.

Careful not to disturb the rest of the guests, Honoka approached them and spoke to them.

Approached with her, Shizuku bowed slightly.

"Mitsui-san, Kitai-san, have you come together?"

Kanon group was invited on behalf of the Isori family, Kanon herself accompanies the groom, and the remaining five are friends of

Isori. However, in the case of Shizuku, her parents were originally invited guests, and Honoka and Shizuku - their escort. Therefore, when entering the venue, they should not be separated from their parents.

"No, over there." - As always, the laconic Shizuku showed the direction with a glance. In the place where Shizuku was looking, there was a high school student and a married couple from China, Ushio and Benio, who exchanged greetings with famous politicians, whom Kanon also knew.

-It's amazing. - Azusa's conversation, which stood next to them, was delighted.

"This man was quite an outstanding politician, after all?" That one who came up to say hello from the other side ... - In the voice of Kanon was heard not only the impression, but also surprise.

"Are you saying something remarkable?" This is one of the senior ministers. He is a very influential person from the family associated with JSDF, but there's nothing to worry about. - Said in a whisper unknown when the Isori came up.

The family of Ushio does not belong to any company directly related to weapons. However, the corporate group of the Ushio family holds a large share in the production of intermediate goods for weapons, from bullets to fighters. Since the production of ammunition for the internal needs of the army is not the main activity, then losing the favor of Benio Ushio, the supply of the army could be stalled, and sales could be transferred to civilian use or exports. The expression "do not worry" used by Isori, one might say, reflected this state of affairs.

"In that case, we too will go greet them."

"Whom?"

"Both sides, of course." - Pushing Kanon from behind, Isori went to Ushio, Benio and the politician talking with them.

"Do not worry so much." - Sayaka and Azusa watched the back of the departing couple with their eyes, and, whispered in a whisper to Shizuku, blinked continuously, like a dove, caught off guard by a shot from a toy gun. Even if they do not go to the greeting now, there is still Shizuku. Even after the party starts, there will be plenty of opportunities for conversation. As a result, a serious expression appeared on the faces of these two people.

Outwardly looking calm, Isori was far from complete self-control.

"Honoka, what's wrong?" - Shizuku, in turn, has not yet seen how Isori's affairs are there. She talked with Honoka, who kept looking around uneasily around the lobby. Nevertheless, she knew, without asking who was looking for Honoka.

"Tatsuya-san, it seems, has not come yet?"

-Exactly. As soon as Miyuki's group arrives, everyone will understand this at once. - Shizuku had in mind "you forgot about Miyuki and Minami," but her words never reached Honoka.

At the time when Honoka expressed her excitement, the speedboat with the Tatsuya group had long arrived at the port of the artificial island. Miyuki did not appear in the lobby, because she did not like being surrounded. Covered with many mysteries, Yotsuba Princess is of considerable interest among the masses, who will strive to communicate with her. And Miyuki's astounding appearance will only exacerbate this situation.

Tatsuya did not approach the venue for another reason. He was heading for the newly opened underground shopping center of the artificial island. Full- value sales in all stores will begin next month with the start of the mining subsea plant, but some souvenir shops and convenience stores have already been opened.

He found James J. Johnson in front of a well-known store that had offices all over the country. Johnson changed his hair and eye color, and also shaved his mustache. In addition, with the help of the book, he changed the look of his body. However, Tatsuya's "look" does not deceive. He initially did not find with ordinary eyes, but with "Eyes of Spirits" fixed and read the location.

The enemy also had to understand Tatsuya's approach. In particular, because Tatsuya was not at all hiding. Nevertheless, one could say that the absence of even a little nervousness was a good sign.

With Johnson was a girl looking for 12-13 years. Red hair and green eyes. The colors differed from those shown by Kazama in the photo. But Tatsuya would never be mistaken, although she was wearing clothes that slightly increased her visual growth, and she also changed the image very much, changing her hair.

The girl looked up. Her and Tatsuya's eyes met.

-I apologize. With a slight bow, Tatsuya turned to Johnson. - Today we are holding a private party, so ... I would advise curious glances to stay away.

"No, please do not worry about it." Johnson answered in a nervous voice and tried to hurry away from Tatsuya. However, Tatsuya could not let them go away just like that.

-Mistress, also accept my apologies. Such treatment in relation to the lady is unacceptable. I apologize. - Looking at the girl ... Captain Jasmine Williams directly in the eye, he made a formal apology, which is not used in communicating with children.

"... Thank you for being courteous." In fact, do not worry about it. - he answered the girl with her high, firm voice to her appearance and bowed. After that, Johnson and Jasmine turned and left.

Having made sure that behind Tatsuya entered the store, Johnson quickened his pace. Jasmine had to run a little to keep his pace, but he did not slow down. Johnson calmed down only when they turned a corner and left the line of sight of the store. But he was still walking, just dropping the speed to normal for Jasmine.

After reaching the blind spot in the surveillance cameras, Johnson stopped. Johnson and Jasmine quickly looked around. After making sure that there was no one, they opened the door to the ladder for the workforce in advance with a prepared key and went inside. After that they, Johnson very deeply, and Jasmine slightly, sighed.

But this relaxation was only for a moment.

-Jas.

-What?

-How do we notice ... in your opinion?

-No idea. - On a nervous voice Johnson's question, Jasmine shook her head with a serious face.

-There were no signs of persecution. There are no signs of using magic either ...

The voice of Jasmine was unexpectedly messy.

"Jay, there were no signs of using magic?" We did not do anything, did we?

Jasmine called Johnson a friendly name, not a military appeal, as usual. This was a sign that she was in a state of confusion.

"Jas, what happened?"

Jasmine is one year younger than Johnson. But now in his eyes she was helpless, corresponding to her appearance, a girl.

-I do not know ... There was no sign of magic. There was no sense of magic attack. So why? Why did this feeling of anxiety arise? What is this eerie feeling when suddenly you realize yourself with a rope wrapped around your neck, tightening all the same?

"Jas, calm down."

In truth, Johnson already had a memory of the feeling that Jasmine felt right now. Hearing her words about the "tight loop", he remembered the shock that he himself experienced at that time. However, he somehow managed to suppress the feeling of anxiety and calm the trembling, after which, making the most fearless expression, looked Jasmine in the eye.

"I did not see anything done to you either." At least this guy did not even touch you with a finger.

Jasmine's breathless breathing slowly returned to normal.

"... I'm sorry." This is an unusual disorder for me. This Yotsuba magician looked as if he understood too much.

- Yes. Undoubtedly this guy felt some mystery.

Jasmine relaxed slightly, because she thought Johnson was joking. However Johnson was absolutely serious.

"Jas, will we stop this time?"

Jasmine took several seconds to understand the meaning of these words.

"... Do not say nonsense." The order for the resolution of active actions has already been obtained.

"I deliberately said that." This mission ... is dangerous. - Johnson hinted at the refusal of the mission.

"Captain Johnson, these words are drawn to a military tribunal."

"It's just us." This means that we ourselves are the ones who make decisions in this operation. If a serious deterioration of the situation is expected, we, at our discretion, may decide to evacuate.

-This is only in case the fatal situation is predicted with high accuracy! Nothing so specific has happened yet.

"Is this an ordinary magical fight in our mind !?" This is a secret battle between magicians. It is not known what kind of threat can wait!

- All the same is in normal work! This is not an excuse to run away!

Johnson and Jasmine stared at each other. The first person to look away was Johnson.

"... I'm sorry." I do not know what came over me.

"... This time I'll pretend that I have not heard anything."

Jasmine accepted the apology of Johnson, who admitted his mistake.

-Yes. ... It's time to return? The party will begin soon. That guy is probably gone.

-Let's go to.

Johnson walked up the stairs to the aisle and headed for the other door. Jasmine, who was following him, tried to suppress her own desire to abandon the mission, which she undoubtedly felt, too.

Tatsuya bought mineral water from the store and returned to Miyuki waiting on the yacht. He did not want to drink. Simply, he considered that leaving the store without buying anything would look unnatural.

- Onii-sama, is it time to go to the venue?

When Tatsuya left the yacht alone, he said that he would return when the time came to go to the party. But he suddenly shook his head at Miyuki's question.

-A little time still remains? Give me five minutes. "It's okay ... Really, Onii-sama?"

The reason he returned to the ship. Probably that the third party did not leave his observation. Reflecting on this, Miyuki realized that Tatsuya was going to do from the phrase "do not escape from observation."

"I'll call you when the time comes."

- Thank you.

After answering the suggestion of Miyuki, who had understood everything, Tatsuya went into his cabin.

Although Miyuki and Minami will not enter without permission, Tatsuya still locked the door just in case, took off his jacket and sat on a chair. And immediately closed his eyes. Of course not to take a nap. And in order to direct your "view" to a world that cannot be perceived only by the five senses.

Tatsuya can "see" the information dimension even at a time when he looks at the ordinary world with the naked eye. However, it is much easier to do this by observing slowly and with a lowered stimulation of the five ordinary senses.

Using the pioneer bullet released earlier through the Idea as a guide, he got access to information about the "girl" he met on the eve.

"Jasmine Williams, Captain of the Armed Forces of the Australian Armed Forces." So all the same age and appearance do not coincide? "

Improved magician with a genetic anomaly.

Even realizing this, Tatsuya did not flinch. To treat the enemy prejudiced because of this would be very frivolous for him. As an enemy, for Tatsuya they are only a target to be neutralized. If it ceases to be an enemy, then the attitude towards it can change.

To be sure, Tatsuya also checked the label of James J. Johnson. It was still being tracked without problems. He realized that it would work for another three days, unless of course found.

"Maybe it's reckless ... but it will be a good practical test."

When he had finished, Tatsuya opened his eyes and looked at the clock in the cabin. It took more time than he expected. When he was already up and began to put on his jacket, there was a knock at the door.

"... Onii-sama." It's almost time.

-I got it. - Having answered Miyuki, he opened the door. Miyuki's hair was without her usual ornaments and gathered up into a bun, and on her open neck shone a tricolor necklace well balanced from pearls of white, black and gold colors.

The party dedicated to the completion of Saikasin began. The door to the hall opened, and people wandering around the lobby began to slowly go inside. There are people with two types of thinking: when the boss should go first, and when the big bumps come in after everyone. Today, it seemed, none of them applied, and people just started to enter from the neighbors to the entrance. For this reason, the Tatsuya group that was not waiting in the vestibule was the last, but was not considered late. In other words, Miyuki, accompanied by Tatsuya and Minami behind her, entered the hall already filled with people.

At the moment of its entrance, the hall, before full of noise, died down. As if the main character appeared. No, at this moment, Miyuki, of course, was the star of this place. People, holding their breath, without stirring, as if losing their self-awareness, looked at this beauty, which a mere mortal cannot have.

Miyuki smiled slightly embarrassed under all these glances and, standing in the center of the hall, bowed slightly.

Thus, the fetters of the mind with the people in the hall were removed.

The noise of the voices returned. Almost all of them were about Miyuki: "Who is this beauty?", "She is from Yotsuba ...", "What, she !?". There were only a few exceptions. Of course, these were long-time students and graduates of First High, as well as Shizuku's parents, who knew Miyuki.

Tatsuya with Minami first of all accompanied Miyuki to greet Ushio. This is quite natural, because they were here as his guests.

-Long time no see. Thank you for today. Tatsuya bowed politely. After him, they bowed: Miyuki was elegant and cute, and Minami was innocent and reserved.

-Thank you, too. Thank you for your courtesy. - Having gathered many views from the audience, Ushio answered Tatsuya with a smile. Tatsuya and Miyuki also met with Ushio last month, after the incident with the terrorist attack in Hakone. So, although in fact it was not "long time to see", but it was not necessary to honestly tell the truth in a situation where someone can overhear. In addition, with the wife of Ushio, Benio, they really have not seen each other for a long time, so this was not a strange greeting.

"Since your previous meeting, you have become much more grand."

Benio spoke to Tatsuya of the suitable position of her in a sociable tone. However, Tatsuya was able to read in her words a hidden complaint: "You deceived me well at that time."

-And Madame still looks great, and has not changed at all. It's an honor to see you today. "Nevertheless, Tatsuya did not feel guilty at all. Benio, looking at him with an evil look, somehow managed to keep a friendly smile on his face.

"Wataru-kun, have not seen each other for a long time." You're already in high school? "Trying to defuse the situation, Miyuki spoke to Wataru, who stood tensely next to Benio. A beautiful voice, suitable for a beautiful appearance, sounded like a bell in the hall and again made many, irrespective of their age, stiffen.

- Yes, from this April I am a high school student!

Wataru's tension was justified. Despite the meaningless answer, it was worthy of respect even that he was able to speak at all.

Talking with Tatsuya, Ushio watched with such a sad smile.

"My daughter is here, too." Do not want to go talk to her? - Where Ushio pointed with his gaze, gathered in one group, stood Shizuku, Honoka and graduates.

"In that case, we will use your offer."

After bowing once more, Tatsuya's group left Ushio.

Only after that, people around were able to realize that their behavior was impolite. They hurriedly turned their eyes away from Tatsuya's group and returned to chatter with the nearest interlocutors. Miyuki herself was relieved only when she reached Azusa, Hattori and others.

-I thought that I had already got used to it, but ... looking at this beauty, I again amazed. - Kanon force of will was high enough, since she managed to say this, because Azusa, Sayaka and others were completely absorbed in Miyuki's aura (except in the usual sense this cannot be called "aura" in the conventional sense).

-Guys, the people of the Yotsuba family are all unusual. - Miyuki answered without modesty and compliments. After she had gathered so many views on herself, if Miyuki praises the appearance of Kanon now, it will sound like sarcasm. Miyuki also realized this.

At this point, the organizer of the event climbed onto the stage. After a short greeting, congratulations of about a dozen people followed. When, among others, Ushio spoke, Shizuku looked a little out of place.

Approximately 60 kilometers west of the island of Kume was a ship, heading northwest. The ship was just a bit larger than an ordinary fishing boat. Even if it was a fishing boat, it did not catch fish, it was clear that it was returning to its port at effective speed.

A few years ago in this area patrol boats often chased the illegal fishing vessels of the Great Asian Alliance, among which were even disguised warships of both countries. After the incident 5 years ago of the invasion of Okinawa, such cases were a covert provocation of the Great Asian Alliance. But after the conclusion of the peace treaty last year, this ship could openly cross the sea on the surface.

"Lieutenant-dono, do you really want to go?" We cannot take you back ...

"We'll figure something out later." First of all, the success of the operation is important. - Lieutenant Bernard Zhang said and lay down on his stomach in a capsule of a controlled torpedo.

[note. there is no error in the name. but nowhere is it explained why Zhang suddenly has a different name. further everywhere he is again Bradley]

Zhang is the second number among the detachment of deserters of the Great Asian Alliance. He became the leader in the current situation, when the first issue, Major Daniel Liu, was captured by the Japanese army. Nobody dared to argue with Zhang when he announced that he had chosen a one-way ticket.

However, this meant that Zhang fully understood what was going on. The phrase "something we come up with" was his assessment of the situation. If the diversion is successful, even if the artificial island is not sunk, the chaos caused by this is inevitable. It will not be so difficult to hijack a ship capable of long navigation in all this mess.

-Close the hatch.

-There is.

At the command of Zhang, the hatch behind him was closed. Zhang's eyes were filled with pitch darkness, but a moment later she was driven away by the dim light of the switched-on appliances.

In total, they had five such torpedo capsules. Zhang was alone in his own, and another two climbed in two others. These nine men formed a detachment of suicide bombers, going to their last task.

Capsules were thrown into the sea through an opening at the bottom of the ship. The torpedo capsule propeller was closed with a metal cover completely covering the rear part. This was done to prevent the detection of sound blades.

Thus, moving solely by the magic of people sitting inside, five torpedo capsules began to advance towards the artificial island of Saikashin.

The banquet hall of the hotel, located on the first tier of the underground layers of the artificial island, ended with cheers and it was time for free communication. The gathered representatives of the elite finally regained their composure and began to cast their glances at Miyuki less. A group of graduates, also getting rid of the tension on their faces, went to the table with food.

-I thought that Isori-senpai would also appear on stage. - During the selection of snacks, Tatsuya spoke with Isori. Taking a snack from the same plate as Tatsuya, Isori shook his head with a smile.

-Generally, I had such an opportunity, but I preferred to refuse. I have no one here to please with their speeches.

-It is not true! I'd like to see Kei's gorgeous performance! - Kanon reacted instantly. From her tone it was obvious that this topic was not raised for the first time.

"By the way, sempai." Could you give me some of your time?

"Tatsuya-sama?"

Who was surprised at this proposal, so it's not Isori himself, but

Miyuki. What she did not say at the moment "Onii-sama" showed that she, it seems, had already gotten used to it during this time. Actually Isori was also puzzled, but Miyuki overtook him by reaction.

- ... Something happened? - It seems instead of surprise, Isori felt wrong. From Tatsuya's expression, he realized that his reasoning had come true. - I got it. Let's go there.

The Isori family has to do with the design of this artificial island. So he knew about the presence of a small room next to the banquet hall. It was a room prepared for changing clothes, so today it should not be used.

"Miyuki, wait for me here." Minami, I trust Miyuki to you.

"... Understood."

"Yes, Tatsuya-sama."

"Kanon, wait, too."

Tatsuya stopped Miyuki, who tried to follow them, and Isori - who was also leading Kanon, after which these two, without attracting attention, went to the next room.

"So, what really happened?" - Although there was no one in the room, stopped, Isori immediately addressed Tatsuya in a whisper.

-This party was aimed at deserters from the Great Asian Alliance. - Also stopping, Tatsuya honestly answered Isori's question. From Isori's mouth came a sound. It was not the sound of swallowing saliva, but more like a muffled cry.

"Why now ..." With a hoarse voice Isori reproached Tatsuya. The broken phrase should be "Why did not you tell me before?".

"Please do not get me wrong." - Lifting his right hand in front of him, he stopped Isori with a stop gesture to calm down. - Countermeasures against the planned attack have already been completed. They cannot do anything.

Although it seemed that he did not fully believe Tatsuya's words, Isori still made it clear that he was ready to listen further.

-Saboteurs approach the artificial island under the water and plan to place bombs to puncture the pontoons.

"... In that case, this island of Saikashin will not sink."

- However, today's party will be canceled? If they carry out the plan.

It seems, Isori, at last, has restored calmness and the ability to reason normally. He directed a questioning glance at Tatsuya.

"Your words sound pretty confident, but ... why did you tell me all this?"

"To ask you to be careful if the battle does begin."

"Even if you did not say, you're not going to be involved in some dangerous business?" - asked Isori with his usual expression of a pacifist on his face. However, Tatsuya's face read an obvious answer.

In addition, Tatsuya laid out the cards that destroyed Isori's poker face.

-I know about the defense system of this artificial island, made by the engraving magic. Sempai can also freely activate this magic.

Isori opened his eyes wide. However, immediately nodded quickly with an understanding face.

"It's normal for Shiba-kun to know this." In that case, do you know that it is impossible to install a bomb without the help of the defense forces?

Isori is one of the direct participants in the Yokohama incident. He knows that Tatsuya is a special officer of the national self-defense forces.

"To begin with, they cannot even get close." The repulsive force field, generated on the surface of the pontoons, in order to drive away large marine inhabitants, will also affect people. They will not be injured, but bioelectromagnetism will not allow them to approach pontoons or to a mining facility.

-Correct. In addition, the adherent deposits are also peeled off by ultrasonic cleaning. Therefore, it is impossible to install a bomb while there is a magician capable of activating the magic of engraving my family, even if it's not me.

-Exactly. The fact is that the saboteurs also know this.

The complexion of Isori changed. He was not stupid enough not to understand the meaning of these words.

"... Will they target me, too?"

-Correct. To be precise, they already aimed at sempai, right? Tatsuya nodded in his calm, unbiased manner. "But be calm." A magician of the self- defense forces is on the spot and will guard this person.

At the moment, as Tatsuya said this, Behind Isori, the presence of a man appeared. Hurriedly turning Isori gave the honor to the magician in the uniform of the waiter.

- When he...

Without answering Isori's question, the magician, disguised as a waiter, introduced himself:

"The National Defense Forces, Chief Sergeant Haebaru, is at your service." I apologize for not being able to say which division I belong to, this is a military secret.

The soldier, who introduced himself as Haebaru, was a lean man of about 30 years of age. However, even poorly versed in this Isori realized that he is not in such a physical state, as can be seen at first glance.

-Sergeant Major - escort specialist. He is excellent in personal protective magic, and also has extensive experience in battles. Please tell the sergeant about your plans for movement.

Confirming that Isori nodded, Tatsuya suggested:

- Then, come back.

Returning to Tatsuya Hall, a beautiful woman in a modest dress called at first sight that left her impression of "the secretary of the president of the famous corporation."

"Senpai, come back, please, continue without me."

-I got it. - Guessing Isori, without asking who this woman was, returned to the table, where Kanon and the others crowded. Because he recognized her, too.

"Is that the eldest son of the Isori family?" What a sweet boy. He should have a dress.

"Only do not say so, please." I can guess for him this is a painful topic.

-I will not talk. Do I look so careless?

-No, I just in case. "Tatsuya replied carefully. She showed the furious smile of Fujibayashi.

-They came? He asked in a tone of secular conversation.

-Yes. They will come into contact with the line of defense in five minutes.

Around them was activated "Barrier" Fujibayashi, protecting from listening, set so that no one noticed it. It was not a modern magical soundproofing field, but the inherited ancient magic of the Fujibayashi family. Unlike strong modern magic, this ancient magic was poorly perceived by sensors, which suited this place well.

"So it's about ten minutes to surf to the surface?"

"Maybe a little earlier."

-I got it. Then I will also begin to prepare for the performance.

-I got it. I'll tell the commander.

Already intending to leave, Tatsuya stopped, noticing in the look of Fujibayashi's desire to say something.

- Something else?

"Tatsuya-kun, it seems ... not at all baffled."

-What are you speaking about? "Tatsuya did not pretend to be a fool." The words of Fujibayashi were too vague, and he did not know what she was hinting at.

-I heard that five years ago Tatsuya-kun also lost a loved one.

-It's true. So what? Tatsuya's voice could only be called unfeeling.

-The same terrain, the same enemy, everything is the same. ... I would also like to become so strong.

It seemed that Fujibayashi did not address Tatsuya, but spoke to herself.

-This is absolutely not the same. The nature and position of the enemy are different from that time. "However, Tatsuya gave an honest answer. "Besides, there's only one really important person for me."

The name of this person was not necessary to ask.

"... Even if you do not lose Miyuki-san, do others not matter?"

- This is a meaningless assumption. While I'm alive, this will not happen. - Tatsuya responded with absolutely no tension and this time left Fujibayashi.

Curious views gathered on Tatsuya's table that had come back to him. In fact, Kirihara and Hattori were already ready to open their mouths to ask.

-Excuse me. "But Tatsuya took the initiative." - They contacted me from the main house of the family, I had to solve one thing.

Until last year, Tatsuya was cautious about various things in order to keep the secret of the "family". However, now one can use the pretext that he is a relative of the Yotsuba family. If you hint that this is the case of the Yotsuba family, then there will be no unnecessary questions because of the bad reputation. Honestly, Tatsuya felt that it would be imprudent to use this "excuse" every time. Now also the question "What's the matter?" Was not followed.

-The case is not yet complete. Miyuki, I'll be back at the end of the party. "Yes, Tatsuya-sama." I'll wait with impatience.

Tatsuya nodded and went to Benio Ushio. To also inform about the unfinished business.

"So you're calling him Tatsuya-sama now?" - With the gaze of Miyuki, she spoke up Azusa.

-Yes. Because "Tatsuya-san" sounds unsuitable. - Despite the sudden (Miyuki long standing in front of Azusa and already many times using

"Tatsuya-sama") a raised topic, Miyuki did not panic and with a radiant smile answered this question. On such frank rectitude, Azusa could not react in any way, except to smile.

-Ha ~, no, well, what can I say ... Shiba-san in his repertoire. - Kanon with the expression "thank you for eating" on your face, looked at the ceiling. - For me it seems impossible ...

"Kanon is as good as it is." So I'm happy.

"Ehehe ... is it true?"

"Kanon pressed closer to Isori's standing beside him.

"Ah, those two are again in their own separate world." Indeed, where did the modesty of Yamato Nadysiko go? [expression describing the ideal Japanese woman] - Kirihara turned away his gaze from those who began to spread the love atmosphere and began to complain.

- Said one who is here with the girl.

Tsukkomi Hattori had no effect on Kirihara, but:

"So Kirihara-kun likes modest girls?" Well, then I'll decide to abstain for a bit.

- Hey! "He could not hide his frustration at Sayaka's gag."

While the graduates, including the "created their world Isori and Kanon" all laughed together, Honoka and Shizuku spoke in a low voice with Miyuki.

"Miyuki, do not you have to go?"

-Can we help?

-I believe that to be calm is the main help that we can render.

With her answer, Miyuki did not disclose the real state of affairs. Initially, it was even included in the operation plan that Miyuki will play an important role in the final stage. But now she could calm down.

Miyuki's answer was justified from the point of view of minor civilians, and Honoka and Shizuku were convinced. However, there were those who did not retreat. Those who have been foresighted from the very beginning in anticipation of impending disaster. Tatsuya (although Miyuki too) slightly underestimated the hot blood of graduates.

Approximately one kilometer west of the artificial island of

Saikashin. Illuminated by the light of the full moon, a man stood on the waves. Giant in white armor in Chinese style. It was wrapped in the magical "Armor of the White Tiger" Lu Ganghu.

"They'll be here soon."

- There is. I start the dive.

"I think you know that although the armor of the White Tiger does not belong to" Fire, "they are still poorly compatible with" Water. "

-I understand. But if you do not give them a head start, it will not be interesting at all.

"Well, we are talking about the captain, who does not consider the" Fire "as something significant. We have nothing to worry about.

"Please leave it to me."

"All right, go ahead."

On the orders of Chen Xiangshan, the body of Lu Ganghu began to sink underwater. This was not strange in itself. On the contrary, the man standing on the surface of the water looked abnormal. However, instead of falling into the sea, splashing water, the figure slowly went under the water - that's what looked strange.

Lu Ganghu did not have an oxygen balloon behind him, nor a breathing tube. But he breathed as usual. If you look closely, his body does not touch the sea water. The huge body of Lu Ganghu, dressed in the Armor of the White Tiger, was covered with a thin air layer.

He stopped dipping and looked straight ahead. Neither the light of the stars nor the light of the moon reached that depth. The water of the night sea was filled with darkness. Nothing was visible even at arm's length. ... This is about physical light.

The vision of Lu Ganghu could see the psion light emitted by the body accompanying the use of magic.

Leaning with his feet on the sea water, Lu Ganghu stretched his left hand forward, and pulled his right back from it.

The layer of gas covering his body became thicker. To the air taken from the surface of the sea, he added the oxygen extracted from the sea water. Usually this leads to oxygen poisoning, but Lu Ganghu's body consumed highly concentrated oxygen to increase "strength."

Pulling forward his right hand, he released the energy accumulated by this "technique" of energy in the form of a powerful "wave." This "wave" did not move water, but acted only on living beings. Lu Ganghu felt the response of the "wave" oscillation, which sprang from something. Starting from the water, he ran forward.

Going ahead of the rest of the torpedo capsule, he kicked his foot from below, throwing it up. Two people were thrown out of the capsule, which lifted its nose upward. They panicked and tried to surface.

Of the other capsules, one by one, the deserters jumped up and began to climb to the surface. Lu Ganghu followed them with a fierce smile.

At the time when Lu Ganghu came into contact with the torpedo capsules, Tatsuya moved on the sea on a hydrocycle. He was not alone. On each side of him, on a small boat, the same course was followed by Higaki Joseph and Yanagi.

"Major, did you see this?"

"Did you see it, too?"

Tatsuya and Yanagi caught in their various perceptions the "wave" that had spread across the sea.

"Enemy agents are rising to the surface."

-I will go. Cover me.

-There it is.

Immediately after the answer, Tatsuya and Yanagi jumped from the boat. He had in his hand a pole about two meters in length.

Yanagi landed on the surface of the sea. It should be said that it splashed down, but when it was clear that the legs did not sink in the water at all, it could only be expressed as "landed."

Standing on the waves, he stuck a pole into the water. Grabbing a pole with his left hand over the upper end, and right by 50 cm below, he made a "lever" by pulling his left hand down and his right up. The enemy soldier was dragged out of the water. Yanagi sent a soldier into the air. The soldier's cries drowned out the noise of the hydrocycle. The fact that heavy damage was inflicted could be seen only by the sight of the flying body.

The soldier who was thrown by Yanagi, fell directly into the boat, which Joseph led. Joseph quickly tied the fallen man. Yanagi, meanwhile, was already heading for the next enemy, which had already surfaced.

The sign of someone strong quickly approached the surface. He chose a position for Yanagi's attack from behind. At the moment when Yanagi, by a rowing movement, attacked the head of the emerging enemy in front of him, a giant human figure jumped out of the water, like a jumping whale.

Tatsuya aimed magic at this big figure. But the imaginary trigger did not pull. Because I realized that the more ferocious, than this person sign, pursuing him, was approaching to jump out of the water.

He already realized that the big man is a deserter from the Great Asian Alliance, Lieutenant Bradley Zhang. And his pursuer is captain of the army of the Great Asian Alliance, Lu Ganghu.

Bradley Zhang surpasses Lu Ganghu in body size. However, according to the amount of energy contained in the body, Lu Ganghu is 1-2 steps higher. Tatsuya left Zhang to Lu Ganghu and decided to help Yanagi deal with the remaining trifle ... however ...

At that moment, something so unexpected happened that even Tatsuya could not have foreseen.

"Destruction!" - With a little incomprehensible battle cry, the familiar figure rushed in a flying blow to the enemy who had risen to the surface of the sea. After the attack, drowning the enemy, deftly reacted and landed on the second seat of the Tatsuya hydrocycle, the young man turned out to be his sempai, a former member of the disciplinary committee, Sawaki.

"... Senpai. What are you doing in this place?

-Mmm? I see, you're not surprised.

-Well, that's because I learned by the shape of the jump with a blow that it was sempai. - Tatsuya's answer was not a lie. He knew that the one sitting behind was Sawaki, because the unidentified enemy would have been shot down in the air.

"Could you understand this in such darkness?" As expected from Shiba-kun.

"... No, it's not that dark." There is a moonlight. To some extent this is enough.

Today is a full moon and clear weather. It cannot be said that there was "not a cloud", but at the moment the moonlight unhindered the entire southern sea. As Tatsuya said, it was not difficult to distinguish human outlines.

-Seryaaaa! [note. perev: probably some random battle cry, such as "cue". did not change, left as it was]

Suddenly he heard a familiar voice coming from a short distance. Tatsuya felt a phantom pain in his head.

"Kirihara-sempai, too?"

- OU. And Hattori is with us too.

From the answer sitting behind Sawaki came no longer phantom, but a real headache. Tatsuya unfolded the hydrocycle to the side where he heard Kirihara's voice.

After shooting a couple of times with weak magic for Yanagi's cover, Tatsuya drove up to the hydrocycle that Hattori was driving.

"Not only Sawaki-senpai and Kirihara-sempai, but even Hattori-senpai ...

What are you doing?" Especially in this form.

Tatsuya changed from a costume for a party. But not in a wetsuit, but in special naval combat clothing, which will not interfere, even if it falls into the water. But all three graduates stayed in the same suits that were on them before.

"I thought that such an admixture would not hurt, since we were going to have fun!" Shiba, taking all the fun yourself is not good! - Kirihara shouted joyfully, holding a 120-centimeter stick, which was replaced by a wooden sword. Perhaps he borrowed it from someone from the guards of an artificial island.

-We left the girls in a safe place. Unlike Yokohama, here you can tackle the extermination of bad guys without hesitation. - Answered Sawaki, it seemed, was serious.

From the words of Kirihara and Sawaki, Tatsuya felt the headache intensify, and wondered if they had lost a few screws from their heads. The share of surprise was also present in the impression "is this his true nature?" from

Sawaki.

"... Hattori the senpai." And about you ...

-No, I was against it! But I thought that it would be better than letting them go alone!

In Tatsuya's eyes, Hattori also seemed to call on magic with great enthusiasm. But he did not dare say it out loud.

"Lieutenant Colonel Kazama."

"Instead, he decided to complain to Kazama."

-...What? - The answer came with a little delay. Tatsuya thus realized that Kazama already knows about the runaway graduates.

-Why are civilians released during an external alarm?

As expected, a bad answer came to the question posed with emphasis on "external alarm".

- Officially, there are no military operations in this area at present.

Since the defense forces intend to hide the attack, it is common practice that this battle will not remain in the official records.

"But this is not a reason to allow civilians here."

-Unlike airspace, free navigation by sea in waters where there are no military operations, we cannot prohibit. Moreover, we cannot officially say that the battle is going on.

Obviously, Kazama insisted that he himself would not say what was happening. However, to explain to the graduates that they were in the center of the battle and stop the reckless attempt to break into the middle of the battle - these are different things.

-Anyone can come up with a pretext. Lieutenant colonel. I have no doubt that you could easily stop them.

-The addition of civilians to the front line was not our initiative.

In other words, they just agreed to it.

"Do they want to assess their fighting strength for the future? ..."

Tatsuya realized that further questions were useless. As was seen by the names of Hattori, Kirihara and Sawaki, none of them belonged to the "Numbers". They were outside the mainstream of the representatives of the magical world centered around the Ten Master Clans. For a Separate, magically equipped battalion, no, for the commander of the Brigade 1-0-1, Lieutenant General Saeki, they were suitably talented candidates. That is, Saeki wanted to take advantage of this in order to deepen the relationship.

"You mean you cannot drive them away?"

This meant the approval of their participation in the battle.

Hint asked Tatsuya,

-That's that came quite an expected answer.

Returning Sawaki to the hydrocycle Hattori (he was triple, but with reduced mobility), Tatsuya continued to cover fire for Yanagi.

Despite the fact that most of the enemy agents were already cleaned, two of the remaining three people, Sawaki and Kirihara happily treated, one with their fists and the other with a stick. The skills of the opponents were not very high. Therefore, it was not bad to leave them to do what they like.

But there was one more person left. It was not enough to simply say that the level of his skills was higher. But here, too, there was no problem, because there was someone to trust. More precisely, it was useless to interfere.

Lu Ganghu ran along the surface of the sea. Sliding on the surface of the water, Zhang stood up in a protective stance. The left hand of Lu Ganghu and the right hand of Zhang rushed forward. The hands of these two clasped hands. But this did not turn into a clash of four hands. Just after a moment of struggle between the two hands, Zhang was severely discarded. Lu Ganghu went to Zhang, who had been sunk into the water.

Zhang's body began to sink. Lu Ganghu stamped his foot on the water. The surface of the water shook. Waves did not spread. Within a radius of 5 meters the water began to harden and shook like a bell. Having hardened, the water immediately turned back, foaming and swelling upward.

Zhang jumped out of the waves and foam. Directly on him Lu Ganghu was already approaching. There was an ascending elbow blow. Zhang, distorting his face in agony, flew into the air and fell into the water.

Tatsuya noticed this, watching the battle of these two. Bradley Zhang did "points of support" over the water. Lu Ganghu was making a "road" over the water. Tatsuya could make a "foothold", but did not know how to make a "road". Lu Ganghu used a system of magical techniques that differed from that used by Tatsuya.

"I would like to better consider, but ... it is unlikely to work out."

It was not the only place Tatsuya had to "see". In order not to make a mistake, he kept his curiosity.

Something else was also happening in this place. The battle between Lu Ganghu and Zhang came to an end. But he did not finish this end.

Assessing the enemy's skills as low, Tatsuya based his opinion on the comparison with the level of Yotsuba, the Independent Magic-Equipped Battalion, and also Kokonee Yakumo. But for Kirihara and Sawaki, it turned out to be quite strong opponents. Neither Kirihara nor Sawaki have yet learned how to run freely on the water during a battle. Kirihara could make points on the water for 8 steps, and Sawaki - for 5. However, Sawaki could, after jumping into the air, make after this another five steps.

But in any case, during the battle and Kirihara and Sawaki constantly had to return to the hydrocycle, which led Hattori. The borrowed hydrocycle was large, accommodating three people, so even if those two jump on it simultaneously, they will not collide. However, tracking the positions of Kirihara and Sawaki, and forced to travel between them so that they do not fall into the water, Hattori was even more nervous than the two men fighting in close combat.

Tatsuya saw that the combat capabilities of Kirihara and Sawaki themselves are higher than those of the enemy soldiers. But the enemies, who fought these two, in a disadvantageous situation, went under the water and aimed at their feet. The soldiers-deserters from the army of the Great Asian Alliance had activated magic, allowing free movement on the surface and under water. If to compare with the Japanese ancient magic, it is similar to one of the techniques of ninjutsu, "Water escape".

The magic of the army of Hong Kong, to which they originally belonged, is based on ancient magic from the continent and ancient magic from Britain, and is now in a chaotic state with admixtures of modern magic and magic of enemy Japan, so it cannot be classified as any "style." Criminal organizations, like the "No-Head Dragon" are faithful enough to the traditions. The deserters themselves, using their techniques, probably do not know which system they belong to.

However, "Use, if you can." This is the correct way to use "techniques" as a tool. By itself, such thinking will not affect the outcome of the battle.

-Seryaaaa! - Kirihara slashed a stick on the shoulder of the enemy. Even with a high-frequency blade, the stick did not give the attack power of a real sword. Nevertheless, a vibrating with a high frequency stick tore the clothes and skin of the enemy, sending damage to the bone.

Even when the enemy accepted the attack on the knife, the vibration spread through the blade and fingers into the palm of your hand and caused numbness. The enemy did not drop the knife, because it had hand protection, into which the fingers were pushed. Having fallen on one knee, the enemy raised sprays and completely disappeared under water.

"Again?" Wooo !?

With such an unexpected underwater speed, Kirihara was finally knocked down. Attack from under the feet - this is not what you usually expect. Even in using magic "kenjutsu".

Kirihara fell to the surface of the sea. He simply began to sink. The hand of the enemy turned around his neck. At the same time, the enemy soldier tried to strike Kirihara with a knife, which he held in the other hand.

Directly under them was an explosion. The formed blast wave pushed to the surface and threw the bodies of Kirihara and the enemy into the air. While Kirihara was still in flight, the body of the enemy suddenly pulled down to the surface of the sea increased gravity. At the moment when surface tension began to support the enemy on the surface, electric current flowed through the water. It was a weak electric attack, which is not enough to neutralize a person. However, the strength was enough to make it difficult to act for a short time and make a breach in the defense.

Underwater explosion, acceleration of falling, electric shock. This magic chain was built by Hattori.

-Kirihara, now! - Hattori used remotely applied magic. He also continued to move on the hydrocycle. Even if you shout loudly, it is more likely that words will not be heard.

-Yes! - But Kirihara did not miss these words. He did not miss this opportunity.

Kirihara changed his trajectory with the help of the magic of the air "jump", and, leaving the drop to the force of attraction, rushed to the enemy with a stick wrapped in a "high-frequency blade". The sea water, affected by the high-frequency vibration of the stick, evaporated, bubbling violently. The resistance absorbed the strength of the stick. But as a result, everything went well.

Having pushed all the water on its way by evaporation, Kirihara's stick reached the body of the enemy soldier. But instead of slashing motion, he pressed the stick to the enemy, and he, furiously shaken in a bubble pillow, lost consciousness.

Kirihara who had risen appeared on the surface of the sea, and raised the captured enemy soldier. The battle between Sawaki and the enemy soldier still continued. The battle between an enemy attacking from under the water and an attacker from the air of Sawaki.

Simply put, they did not grapple straight. Obtained substantial damage from attacks Sawaki hands and feet, the enemy soldier completely switched to attacks from the water. On the other hand, Sawaki did not run on the sea, but jumped high, and, sharply changing the trajectory in the air, dived down when the enemy showed up on the surface.

Each time this sequence of actions was repeated. Sawaki tries to kick the enemy. The enemy tries to grab Sawaki by the foot and drag him into the water.

-Oh, that's bad. Can I help him better? - Frowning, muttered floating on the waves Kirihara, who could already afford to watch the battle of the ally. Constantly jumping Sawaki, and the enemy, waiting for the moment in the water. Apparently, Sawaki will be the first to die out.

Kirihara was not the only one who felt it. The head of the enemy appeared over the water. The next moment a tightly compressed thin disk from the water, flying close to the sea level, attacked the enemy, slightly touching it. The enemy immediately returned under the water. The water disk suddenly stopped over this place and fell vertically.

Although this was not visible, it could be understood that the suddenly increased water pressure caused damage to the enemy under the water. Looking at the picture unfolding in the light of the moon, Kirihara involuntarily whistled as a token of praise.

Even without checking, one could say that this was also the magic of Hattori. The behavior of this disk was not the result of rewriting magic on the fly. He pre-programmed the trajectory, predicting that the enemy will dodge, dropping down. A sharp look, versed in the weak places of enemies, and a magical control that allows you to use it.

- Truly "the general". Not at all like me. - Kirihara muttered a secret nickname in a whisper so that Hattori could not hear, because it was obvious that he would not like it.

"GENERAL"

At the sight of this word appear images of adjectives "not an expert, but ordinary", "simple", "universal."

For example, speaking of the "universalist", in addition to the original meaning: "a person with experience, extensive knowledge, not limited to his own area," is also used for ridicule the meaning "one who cannot become an expert."

[note. The author describes a play of words where the English word "general" means "ordinary" and similar meanings, if used, as an adjective. Hattori's nickname is pronounced in English.]

However, modern magic, based on the use of a CAD, was originally developed taking into account the "almighty soldier who can do anything alone". "Not a specialist" means that "he is not attached to any area of activity", that is, "he can do anything." This was exactly what modern magic sought.

Kirihara and his classmates believed that Hattori best realized the educational policy of modern magic among all of the same generation as they, from the Mayumi and Katsuto generation a year older, and also from the Tatsuya and Miyuki generation a year younger.

Marie, sempai older than 1 year, also certainly has a lot of magic variations in the arsenal, however she is extremely concentrated on melee combat, and also has a lack of abilities against mechanized troops.

But Hattori does not have this. His main field of activity is a group battle at the middle and long range, however, both hand-to-hand combat and sniper shooting can be performed at a high level. Kirihara, specializing in close combat, could not easily defeat Hattori in training battles.

The nickname "general" also had one more meaning. The Hattori family is not from the "Numbers". And also not some famous family of users of ancient magic. The name only coincided with the famous family of users of

"ninjutsu" Hattori, he was not associated with them. They are among the oldest members of the "One Hundred Families", but do not form part of the magical world.

Nevertheless, Hattori, who was on an equal footing or even higher than "Numbers", in the future was to become a leader, "Shogun" for the same numberless classmates, like Kirihara and Sawaki.

[note. Translation: "Shogun" = commander, general. those. the first meaning of the nickname is "universal [soldier]," and the second, in fact, "general"]

Neither Kirihara nor Hattori saw this. Sawaki's lips moved slightly in the air. Like Kirihara, he, perhaps whispered the same unknown Hattori nickname.

Seen on the surface of the enemy soldier looked sluggish. The magic of Hattori, as calculated, inflicted damage on the enemy underwater pressure. Bouncing off the air, Sawaki attacked the enemy floating on the surface of the sea. The enemy soldier tried to grab Sawaki by the leg.

The enemy's hands stretched upward. Sawaki held up both his legs. Using not only the lower part of the body, but also the lower back and the upper part, as a spring, he sharply extended both legs forward. With the magic of self-acceleration, the feet reached the speed of sound. Surprised by the surface of the sea, the air wall completely cut down the enemy soldier.

The battle between Lu Ganghu and Bradley Zhang was also at the final stage. In a direct confrontation, Zhang cannot defeat Lu Ganghu. Having the nickname "The Man-Eating Tiger", Lu Ganghu is a warrior, considered one of the strongest melee magicians in the world.

He was mistaken during the Yokohama incident because he was wounded in a battle with the same considered one of the strongest melee magicians, "Illusory Blade" by Chiba Naotsugu, and also because Tatsuya and Mayumi were his enemies. Even then wounded, he could not be defeated by melee fighters, such as Marie, Erika, Leo and others. Lu Ganghu has a better command of both martial arts and magic.

Perhaps Zhang, finally, also realized this. From his presence, all signs of strength disappeared. No, probably he could only be called surrendered. Zhang knew what to do after the fight with Lu Ganghu. His goal is not to defeat Lu Ganghu, but to achieve a successful diversion of the artificial island. However, at this rate, he will be defeated here. Zhang understood this.

Bradley Zhang's eye color changed. From his body, the psions were bursting uncontrollably, covering the whole body with a veil that wavered like heat waves.

"Ho-ho." - Lu Ganghu smiled joyfully and narrowed his eyes. The white armor worn by Lu Ganghu was covered with a layer of psions with properties of increased density and hardness.

Zhang bent heavily, standing on the waves. With his hands on the surface of the sea, he began to resemble a four-legged predator, preparing to attack prey. Water crawled over these hands. The sea water crawled up arms and legs, covered the huge body of Zhang and lifted him into the air. This water did not limit the actions of Zhang. The water mass moved up and down, forming something resembling the mouth of a giant snake.

From the mouth of this supposedly giant snake, or dragon, Zhang looked at Lu Ganghu. Lu Ganghu looked at it ... not hiding a smile. Joyful, fierce and wide in all teeth.

Lu Ganghu took the first step at the same time when the dragon Zhang set in motion. A big wave in the form of a water dragon swallowed Lu

Ganghu. Immediately after that, a roar was heard from the waves. He did not belong to the "dragon". It was the roar of a "tiger". After rising, the water mass dispersed, forming the shape of the bowl. At the bottom of the "cup", breathing heavily, stood Lu Ganghu.

The surface of the sea began to return to its normal state. Before the waves converged on him, Lu Ganghu jumped out of there. Hanging in the air, Zhang attacked Lu Ganghu with a stream of water bullets.

"White Tiger Armor" Lu Ganghu is the creation of ancient continental magic and is subject to the law of the Five Elements.

"Kinjosuy" means that the Element of Metal gives power to the Element of Water. ["Kindzosui" - literally "gold gives birth to water"]

And if you look from the other side, the Element of Water takes power from the Element of Metal. This is a different interaction, in which one participant is strengthened and the other is weakened.

"White Tiger Armor" refers to the Element of Metal. Therefore, with such reliable protection, victory is assured. Cold in nature, they are designed to control anger.

The armor of the White Tiger, having the property of the Element of Metal, is no longer valid from the Element of Water. Just a large amount of water will not affect it in any way, but if you attack with the Element of Water, the force will gradually decrease.

The attack of the detached Bradley Zhang reached Lu Ganghu, taking advantage of the law of the Five Elements. However, this was not enough to stop a man known throughout the world as the "Tiger-Ogre."

With the pain from the impact of water bullets, "Anger" became stronger. By transforming the enemy's attack into energy for his attack, Lu Ganghu with his right foot brushed aside the technique surrounding Zhang!

All right, with one kick. The blow of Lu Ganghu, inflicted in full force, destroyed Zhang's technique and threw away his gigantic body. Zhang's body flew, drawing a big arc

Was it a coincidence or a last will? Bradley Zhang was flying toward Tatsuya. Tatsuya's actions were the simplest. He just hit the gas. The hydrocycle suddenly accelerated and Bradley Zhang fell into the water and began to sink.

As Kazama suggested, the battle at sea did not affect the party. But those who know the circumstances, have not weakened their vigilance. Warned by

Tatsuya, Isori stayed in the banquet hall, and, together with Miyuki and Minami, they watched the group associated with First High. However, there was absolutely no time for other actions. There were some unavoidable things.

For example, here are these.

"Kanon, where are you going?"

Instead of blushing, Kanon replied with a smile:

-Collect flowers.

-And me too.

-I'm with you, too.

This meant that Kanon was going to retire for an unavoidable reason, and Sayaka and Azusa wanted to go with her.

[note. Translation: Kanon used the Japanese "secret" female phrase, meaning a trip to the toilet, if anyone did not understand]

"Will Kei go too?"

"... Go, go."

Reddened Isori made Kanon smile to her ears.

Miyuki and Minami exchanged glances. They both heard from Tatsuya that Isori can become a target. In fact, their task was to observe Kanon and the rest. But Miyuki is alone. And for Minami there can be no question of leaving Miyuki. In the end they decided to stay in this place.

The duo of Jasmine and Johnson of the Australian army moved independently, without waiting for the result of the division approaching the sea. They both understood. Having lost the main forces, the detachment of deserters from the Great Asian Alliance will not be able to show good results in this operation.

And now they were whispering in the corner of the corridor, so as not to be noticed.

"Can you get control?"

-It's impossible. - Answered Johnson to the question of Jasmine.

-Apparently because there were a lot of important people, a whole crowd of soldiers was in front of the control room. Moreover, as a bonus, among them is "Daitengu".

" Harunobu Kazama?" ... It's impossible.

The commander of the Independent Magic-Equipped Battalion, Lieutenant Colonel Kazama Harunobu, was known among foreign magicians, both under the pseudonym "Daytengu", and under the abbreviated name "Kharu Kazama." At the end of the 21st century among the English-speaking soldiers they began to pronounce "Dai-tengu" in Japanese instead of translating "The Big Long-nosed Goblin".

According to one theory, this was the result of the export of the subculture, but the truth was covered in darkness.

- Does this mean that now it is best to escape?

"This conversation is over." - Jasmine answered so quickly and sharply, because the same thought came to her mind.

"Wow, what the hell was that?" ... Then how about you, Jas?

"At least it's too tough for me." To crack the magical system established on this island, we still need to interact with Kei Isori .

"So you cannot do it without kidnapping this boy?"

"It's more realistic than meeting with Kazama."

- Well, that's for sure ... op.

Johnson noticed the approaching people and closed his mouth. Jasmine also reacted well and quickly returned to the behavior of the "ordinary girl".

"These girls ... they're Kei Isori's escorts, are not they ?"

They talked, sitting on the couch near the toilet. The faces of those who entered the toilet Kanon, Sayaka and Azusa were easily distinguishable.

-True?

-Without a doubt.

It seems that Johnson did not remember about them so well, but he was confident in his reliable partner, Jasmine, with whom he went through a lot.

- It's good. Captain Johnson, hide. Take them hostage and take Kei Isori .

According to Johnson, none of them possessed fighting power, which is a threat. A girl with a hair-tail, it seemed to be able to show something, but she was not the enemy that Jasmine, who had taken seriously, was unable to do.

- I got it.

Carefully, not to make noise, Johnson opened the door to the service room, and hid there.

Released from the restroom after the correction of makeup Sayaka noticed that they are watching a smart little girl. Though small, but age 12-13 years. Europeans usually look older than the Japanese, so it could be smaller.

"Ah ... really, Jas?"

- Yes , Sayaka.

It was the girl they helped the other day to avoid being kidnapped, she remembered in some way.

-Eh? But the hair color ... - As Kanon said, the hair color was different from what was at that time. Her chestnut hair turned red. The brown eyes turned green. The impression was quite different, given the change in colors and clothes, but after she herself admitted it, doubts fell away.

"Jas, what's the matter?" Where is your dad?

-Yes, so we had a small problem. "Uh, what happened?"

There was no sound of fear in the voice, but Kanon, who, as usual, lacked vigilance, approached Jasmine. But in this case the enemy is a girl looking for 12-13 years. It would be a little strange to blame Kanon for carelessness.

-Actually ... Do not move! - The result was, as expected. Quickly twisting his arms, Kanon, kneeling on the back, Jasmine put a knife to her throat, which she hid under the clothes.

"Jas, what the hell !?"

At the shout of Sayaka, Jasmine answered a soulless smile.

-Do not judge people in appearance. You better remember this. - Keeping Sayaka and Azusa in sight, Jasmine said her demand. "Bring Kei Isori ."

"Kei?" What are you going to do with Kei!? Uk! - Kanon tried to free herself, but since her hands were firmly fixed from the back, she could only complain.

"I have no intention of directly harming him." Bring him as soon as possible.

- No! I cannot force Kei to be in danger because of me!

Azusa and Sayaka exchanged glances. At the moment there were no signs of harming Kanon of movements from Jasmine. However, looking into her cold eyes, they knew that she would not hesitate to use the knife.

"Do not go calling me." I'm here.

- Kei!

The voice of Isori was heard because of the puzzled Sayaki and Azusa.

" Kei, why did you come!" Ay!

"Please be a little quieter." You interfere with the conversation. "Tightening her hands harder to silence Kanon, Jasmine looked at Isori. Isori also looked at Jasmine. Anger burned in his eyes.

"First release Kanon." After that we can talk.

"Try to understand the situation better before you talk." I put forward demands here, not you. So ... to begin with, let the soldier standing next to you step back.

Squeezing his teeth, Isori nodded to the standing Chaebaru. No, did he rather bow? Without saying anything, Chaebaru took two steps back.

Learning that a man dressed in the form of a waiter, in fact, turned out to be a military man, Sayaka and Azusa rounded their eyes. However, they both realized not to say anything, so as not to interfere with what is happening.

-That's better. Then, back to the main topic. Mr. Isori , please follow us. "... If I go with you, will you release Kanon?"

-Yes. James.

Called by name so as not to betray his identity, James appeared.

"Mr. Isori , come here." - I got it.

"Kei, stop!"

At that moment, Jasmine's mind was directed to finding out what to do with the recklessly leading Kanon. If Kanon is left here, the negotiations will fail. Johnson's attention was directed to Isori, Chaebaru and

Sayaka. Johnson, a combat melee sorcerer, knew that Sayaka could not match his appearance.

He considered unnecessary anxiety about Azusa. Jasmine was also not afraid of her. The face of Azusa made me judge prejudiced about the level of her threat.

But the one for whom Jasmine was supposed to look after most of all in this place, in fact it was Azusa.

... There was a sound of strings.

... The sound of the strings, similar to playing the harp, sounded from nowhere.

The Magic of Psychic Intervention by Azusayumi.

Consciousness of Jasmine was divorced from reality, seduced by the tone of the sound.

Jasmine could not understand where this sound came from. It was also unclear whether the ears could hear a sound, or it was an auditory hallucination. Simply put, Jasmine's mind was distracted by the question of where the sound comes from. Her mind was focused on the question of when and where the sound would come next time ...

While everyone forgot how to move, Azusa activated the following magic, using the CAD taken from the handbag as a mobile terminal.

The knife, attached to the Kanon's throat, jerked violently. The feeling of a knife from the right hand returned Jasmine to consciousness. However, it was not perfect. In her fingers there was no strength and the knife was torn from her hand.

The knife fell to the floor.

-Yaya! - Having seen this, Sayaka began to move. She aimed her hand against Jasmine's head. Jasmine released her hand from Kanon and quickly retreated.

"Jas!" - Recovering from " Azusayumi " Johnson took Jasmine in his arms. In time, the darts flew to Chaebaru to stop the two men. Johnson took them with them from the hotel's playroom. Chaebaru easily repulsed three darts, but during this time Johnson and Jasmine ran away to the entrance to the service room.

"Kanon, are you all right?" - With relief on his face, Isori ran to the liberated Kanon.

-Uh-huh ... I'm sorry. Forgive me please. Kanon that saw Isori next to her suddenly burst into tears. Isori did not panic, but gently pressed his head to her.

-It was scary?

-No. Not true. Not at all!

-Then what is it?

"Because of me, Kei was in danger." All because of my carelessness!

Isori repeatedly and gently stroked the head of the reproachful Kanon.

-Why do you apologize? You did not do anything wrong.

-But!

Isori brought his lips close to the ear of Kanon continuing to repent.

"I'm glad that everything is good with Kanon."

Kanon's apologies ceased. She just sobbed, buried in Isori's chest.

"Uwaa ... He's such a gentleman."

Fortunately, these two did not hear Azusa's messy comment. Sayaka's look, saying "how enviable" also did not reach Isori and Kanon, again gone into their separate world.

"Somehow they escaped ... Jas, how are you?"

"I screwed up." The fact that Azusa Nakajou uses the magic of psychic interference ...

-There was no information about this. Its not our fault. You better tell me what to do now.

With regret biting her lip, Jasmine looked at the floor and thought. In the end, she looked up, making a decision.

"I did not want to do this, but ... I use my magic at the party venue."

"Yes, it looks like it's left ..." Johnson's words, too, were indecisive. The use of Jasmine magic, the "Ozone Layer", at a party is the same as a poison gas attack.

They will not be able to excuse themselves by justifying this. The whole world will oppose them with more harsh criticism than in terrorist attacks with bombs. The government of their country may refuse to communicate with them in order to avoid criticism of other countries.

However, the operation of an external detonation cannot be successful (in fact, it has already failed), the option of capturing machine control and the variant of hacking the magic system also ended in flight and failure. The only remaining remedy is the "Ozone Circle". As the high command from the headquarters of the Australian army ordered to complete the diversion, it is impossible to destroy their expectations without doing so.

"Jas, we'll go to the lifeboats first." After using the "Ozone Layer", access to the port will be blocked. Therefore, it is better to prepare for an escape beforehand.

- Agree.

They descended the service ladder to the staff, and made their way to the workers' recreation room, located next to the port. Not to be seen, they did not go directly to the port. The room they came to was deserted. In this remote place, people's presence was not felt.

"How convenient that no one is there."

"It seems to me that this is too good ..." Unlike the optimistic Johnson, Jasmine could not get rid of suspicions.

- Apparently they were distracted by the recent hype.

However, they could not afford to chill out here. Jasmine mentally ordered herself to agree with Johnson.

-Watch your back. "Leave it to me."

If magic only generates ozone, then it is not that difficult. However, relying only on relative information about a place that is not visible in order to generate highly concentrated ozone in a short time, the mind must be strongly concentrated. Thus, the magic operator becomes defenseless. Therefore, in order to use "Ozone Layer" in enemy territory, it was absolutely necessary to have a partner for an escort.

The CAD started downloading the activation sequence. Closing her eyes and concentrating, in the magic calculating area, she began to form a magic sequence.

This contradictory action deliberately changed the contents of the magic calculation area, which is in the subconscious. Both consciousness and subconsciousness had to simultaneously concentrate in one act. Even forgetting how to breathe, Jasmine built a sequence of magic "Ozone Circle".

Coordinates were recorded. Jasmine activated the Ozone Circle (not realizing how many people it will affect) to the venue of the party.

However, there was an unexpected problem.

"... Did the invocation of magic fail?"

-What!? - Instinctively asked Johnson, forgetting about the observation of the surrounding area.

-Activation of the "Ozone Layer" ... seems to have failed. There was no effect.

-Stupidity! "It's amazing, but Johnson seems to have raised his voice and forgot that they're hiding."

No, he was right that this is impossible. Jasmine Williams was an improved magician optimized for Ozone Layer, and Ozone circle developer William McLeod personally supervised the process of setting up her genetic code. He failed to reproduce the scale, allowing to classify magic as the Strategic Class, but the activation speed and identity exceeded the original magic of

MacLeod himself.

Not only in theory. Jasmine has used the Ozone Layer in real combat many times already. Up to this point, she has never failed to activate it. Four days ago, there were also no problems with using the Ozone Layer to get rid of the pursuit of the Japanese army.

- I'll try again! Jasmine closed her eyes again and concentrated her mind. Johnson forgot his role as a security guard and stared at her. Opening her eyes, Jasmine, with a shocked face, fell to her knees, exhausted. - Not activated ... Why? Was my power gone?

-No. Suddenly, a beautiful, clear voice, like the sound of a bell, interrupted them. Immediately after the voice sounded, the presence of a third party emerged from nowhere. Johnson wanted to release an air bullet in the direction of the apparent presence. However, his magic was never activated.

Before the speechless duo appeared one man and two girls. The man is a colonel of the division of special forces of the Great Asian Alliance, Chen Xiangshan. And the girls were Miyuki and Minami.

-You two did not lose the ability to use magic techniques. Miyuki spoke to Jasmine and Johnson. In her speech, there was a faint pity. - The secret technique of the Yotsuba family, "The Gatekeeper." How is it for you?

"The secret technique ... Yotsuba?"

Miyuki smiled back at Jasmine, who had croaked her question. Jasmine's question was in English, but Miyuki responded in Japanese.

-Yes. Usually I do not explain this, but today is a special day. Because we were also given a look at interesting techniques.

Saying this, Miyuki turned her gaze to Chen Xiangshan. He grinned slightly in response. Miyuki looked again at Jasmine.

-The sequence of magic, built in the subconscious, is transferred to the bottom, the "root" of consciousness from the upper layer of the subconscious and projected onto the target of magic from the "Gate" existing in the gap between consciousness and the subconscious.

-So what? Johnson asked in an irritated voice.

-...Cannot be!? - It seems Jasmine realized what Miyuki is trying to say.

-The gate is the magician's mind and the Eidos platform on the border with the Idea. The gates face the Idea. Otherwise, you would not be able to make the consistency of magic work outside of you.

-Damn it! Whatever look, it means ...

"It seems that you have already understood." The magician neutralization magic of "Gatekeeper" is installed on the Gate of the target magician and destroys the sequence of magic immediately after passing through. You cannot use magic until the "Gatekeeper" is canceled.

Miyuki's explanation was partly true.

She said the "secret technique of the Yotsuba family", but it was "Tatsuya's secret technique." At least for now, in the Yotsuba family, only Tatsuya could follow the "gates" of other people. It was presented as a "Yotsuba secret technique" to avoid too much interest in Tatsuya. But neither Jasmine nor Johnson could do anything about it. Because now, in fact, their magic was sealed. Jasmine struck the floor with both hands.

Johnson silently attacked Miyuki. But before his body bumped into the barrier by Minami, a sharp drop in body temperature took away his strength to stand on his feet. Miyuki kindly turned to Johnson, who crawls unattractively on the floor:

- Do not worry. Because it is already proven that sleep is temporary.

Chen Xiangshan again grinned. Because he himself was exactly that example of proof.

-Guys, please. Miyuki shouted to someone outside the door. As if on command, the door opened and the soldiers in uniform entered to detain Jasmine and Johnson. Behind this door was not the expected port of Jasmine, but quite another room.

From the open door, music was barely audible. Realizing that they are very close to the venue of the party, Jasmine was shocked.

"You probably did not notice?" It seems it's called "Kimon Tonko". You two wanted to go down the stairs, but actually went down and down. So, if it had happened that "The Gatekeeper" did not work, then the method of aiming the Ozone circle through relative coordinates would not have yielded results.

-Hahahahaha .... What is this. From the very beginning, we were at your place, like in the palm of your hand? ... "Realizing that this was the final defeat, Jasmine burst into laughter.