Published at 26th of March 2019 2:11 am

Volume 20, Chapter 2

This chapter is updated by NovelFree.ml

The peace treaty between Japan and the Great Asian Alliance was concluded in December 2095.

In the "Scorched Halloween," which destroyed the southern tip of the Korean peninsula in late October, the Great Asian Alliance lost its naval base and many ships. In addition to this, in order to achieve a final victory, in the middle of November a fleet was sent from Sasebo. It was an incomplete fleet, as it was collected from the remnants, because all the major forces were mobilized to prepare for war with the New Soviet Union. Formed in Sasebo, the fleet was accompanied by the only magician of the Strategic Class, publicly disclosed by the government of Japan, one of the "Thirteen Apostles" by Itsuwa Mio. In fact, so Japan declared its readiness for a total war.

Fortunately, the clashes with the fleet of the Great Asian Alliance did not happen. The Magic of the Strategic Class "Abyss" was not used, and the valuable magician of the Strategic Class was not lost by Japan. Because as soon as the fleet reached the open sea, the Great Asian Alliance sent a proposal for a truce, using the Union of South-East Asia as an intermediary.

As a result, the final form of the treaty, in which the Great Asian Alliance accepted almost all of Japan's requirements, was concluded in March 2096. Immediate establishment of peace, which was required by the Japanese side, influenced the modesty of the demands put forward. But the main reason was the huge damage received by the Great Asian Alliance. But this did not mean that everyone agreed with reconciliation.

In any country, in any army, there are always forces that do not want peace. Both in Japan and in the Great Asian Alliance, there were many oppositionists opposing reconciliation. And among them were those who planned to destroy the world by force and restore the state of war.

21 March. Okinawa, Naha airport.

This day was not special. Same as yesterday, same as any of 365 days a year. There were no identical people among those passing through the landing and disembarkation, but all the differences between them could be accommodated in the concept of "individuality". Even if you have a height of

2 meters, even if you are a mountain of muscles weighing a hundred kilograms, if everything is in order with the documents, and if nothing is illegal in the baggage, you will easily pass customs as any other traveler.

This man did not have large suitcases, like those of other travelers. With only a Boston bag as luggage, he left the lobby and went to the taxi stand. [note. Boston Bag - a small hand bag]

For some reason, there were no other people around him. Nobody left the building. There was not a single car at the taxi stand. Feeling unhealthy, this man stopped. From the side of the terminal for domestic flights one could hear the approaching steps of one person. The man turned to the sound of footsteps. Throwing the bag on the road, he stood in a bar with slightly bent knees and elbows.

The man walking towards was not as big as this man, but, undoubtedly, he was the owner of an impressive musculature. If a man could be called simply possessing a very large body, then that person possessed an aura, thanks to which he can be called a giant. A single glance will be enough to say this.

These two, possessing large bodies, concealed incredible fighting abilities. The owners of these bodies were trained only to fight.

"Captain Lou ..." The man turned to the man approaching him. No, rather, he simply muttered involuntarily his name.

"A deserter, Lieutenant Bradley Zhang." - Lu Ganghu, on the contrary, clearly pronounced his words. "I do not mind if you resist."

On the face of Lu Ganghu there was a smile of an ogre-tiger.

- U-Ghost Walker !? [another name is "Kimon Tonko"]

Zhang finally noticed the reason for the lack of passersby. A Ghost Walker technique that could create a kind of isolated space around the user. It was meant to not let oneself be caught.

Zhang was taller by 10 cm and heavier by 20 kg than his opponent. However, at the smiling Lu Ganghu, Bradley Zhang watched with an impatient expression.

Zhang turned his back to Lu Ganghu. Pretending that he wants to escape, he suddenly kicked in the direction of the approaching rear of a sense of danger. Lu Ganghu did not stop. His body continued to move. Catching the foot of Bradley Zhang's boot, he simply pushed him back.

Zhang 's body soared into the air. With unimaginable ease for such a giant, he was on the roof of a taxi station building. The grinning Zhang looked down and his face suddenly froze. Lu Ganghu was not on the road. Bradley Zhang looked up.

The views of Zhang and Lu Ganghu met. Their eyes were at the same height.

Zhang fell off the roof. He did not chose this way to go down in vain. The empty space, where Zhang 's head had just been, was pierced by the right foot of Lu Ganghu, enveloped in a whirlwind.

After sending his body down, and pushing his left foot off the edge of the roof, Lu Ganghu quickly returned to the road. Prepared Zhang attacked Lu Ganghu at the moment of landing. On the head of Lu Ganghu, a slashing hand struck from above, coming along an arc. Lu Ganghu met Zhang's blow with the edge of his hand. From the colliding hands there was a sound like a gong.

- Steel Qigong.

"Not only do you know this technique." - Said Zhang in response to muttering Lu Ganghu.

Mumbling sounded quite joyful, while the answer did not carry any signs of superiority. Lu Ganghu smiled. The smile was like a wild animal grin.

Lu Ganghu kicked the road. At that very moment, Zhang was pushed aside, and a scorched trail remained on the road. Immediately followed by lightning strikes with his fist, elbow, palm. With a face showing that he was waiting for this, Zhang reflected all the blows. But in this situation it was obvious that the advantage was for Lu Ganghu.

Suddenly, a dagger flew in from him. Lu Ganghu nimbly dodged this attack, but his pressure, albeit for a moment, was interrupted. Zhang took advantage of the hitch and took a sharp jump in the distance from Lu

Ganghu. Without moving his head, Lu Ganghu directed his gaze to the side where the dagger came from. There was a man wearing sunglasses, about 180 cm tall. The intruder, able to overcome the technique The Ghost Walker.

A familiar "voice" appealed to Lu Ganghu.

"That's enough, Captain Lou." Temporarily retreat.

The source of the "voice" was not the enemy who was before him. And also not his ally, coming in from behind. The "voice" came from the headset of the communication device.

- There is. - Briefly answering the "voice", Lu Ganghu turned from Zhang.

Standing in the fighting stance, Zhang escorted Lu's back calmly, looking at him, realizing that there were absolutely no open places to attack. Lu Ganghu disappeared into the building.

The taxi was approaching the station. It was not strange. It was a taxi station. Bradley Zhang and a man with sunglasses sat in a taxi that had arrived.

◊ ◊ ◊

"Did you recognize the identity of Bradley Zhang's accomplice?"

-According to the passport, his name is James Jackson. Ostensibly a tourist from Australia. - On the question of Kazama answered standing diagonally behind him Fujibayashi.

"From Australia?" How unusual.

After the Third World Australia has adopted a policy of extremely limited contacts with foreign countries. In the understanding of the Japanese, this was "the actual state of the isolation of the country". However, Australia's policy was not similar to the policy of complete isolation of Japan in the Edo period.

Although the Australian government has adopted a policy of diplomatic isolation, migration and trade have generally been resolved. Visitors were prohibited from directly owning property, but indirect ownership was allowed in the form of the right to distribute income.

What then is the reason for the widespread opinion about the "actual state of isolation"? The reason was in extremely strict rules at the customs, any visitors and departing people underwent thorough checks under the pretext of combating crime, and the material exchange was almost completely suppressed.

Many countries have condemned this policy of Australia. But during the Third World War, which lasted 20 years, there was a case when terrorists entered the country in the guise of travelers, and were able to build a military base, under the cover of investment. So the officially named pretext "for self-defense" was difficult to challenge.

Severe inspections were made even by their own citizens returning to the country. Strict investigations were carried out even for returnees from short-term trips. Under the name of a simple check, a thorough investigation of the case was concealed. At the moment there were very few people who wanted to go abroad, and as a result, the opportunity to see Australians outside of Australia was very rare.

"Ask the intelligence department to investigate his real identity."

If he is a spy, why use such prominent Australian citizenship? That is the question. If he pretends to be an Australian, then the question also arises, for what purpose.

"I'll deal with this immediately." - Having given honor to Kazama, Fujibayashi left the room with a tablet terminal under her arm. Instead, a giant man entered the room. Having just spent his fight outside, Lu Ganghu returned to the airport's conference room.

"Captain Lou, thank you for your work." - The head of the division of the special forces of the Great Asian Alliance, Chen Xiangshan, sitting opposite to Kazama addressed to Lu Ganghu.

Chen Xiangshan and Lu Ganghu were captured during the Yokohama incident and imprisoned as war criminals who committed illegal subversive activities. But as a result of the conclusion of a peace treaty between Japan and the Great Asian Alliance, they were released as prisoners of war. More precisely, an informal exchange of prisoners of war was made. Captured enemy agents, hiding their belonging to a country, do not have the right to such an exchange. But still it was made informally for the rescue of the captive Japanese captured by the Great Asian Alliance.

-No, I missed it.

-Never mind. This I ordered to retreat. In the end, a major clash in such a place would only play into the hands of the enemy.

After saluting and saying "there is," Lu Ganghu stood behind Chen Xiangshan. The views of Lu Ganghu and Sanada, standing behind Kazama, crossed. Lu Ganghu and Sanada ignored the impertinent grin with an unflappable face.

-For the taxi with the objectives of surveillance. Since we are on the island, we will not lose sight of them, I suppose.

-Thanks for the concern. - Chen Xiangshan responded in fluent Japanese to the words of Kazama. "We would like to capture not only Lieutenant Zhang, but also other deserters." I thank, that have listened to this unreasonable request.

The prerequisite for Zhang's desertion was the desire to free his comrades.

- I see. We ourselves are in the same situation.

Kazama, no, the army wanted to seize all the saboteurs who had infiltrated Japan. It was the coincidence of interests that eventually caused their temporary cooperation.

After completing preparations for further cooperation, Chen Xiangshan and Lu Ganghu left the airport. Subordinate Kazakhs escorted them to the apartment they provided. The driver also part-time watched them.

When Chen Xiangshan and the others left, Major Yanagi entered the conference room. Together with him was Fujibayashi, who had recently left.

Kazama, Sanada, Yanagi, and Fujibayashi. The entire officer staff of the Independent Magic-Equipped Battalion, with the exception of Yamanaka, was present in Okinawa.

"Yanagi, did you notice anything?"

-I believe that Bradley Zhang fought seriously. Lu Ganghu, on the contrary, looked frivolous. - Yanagi immediately gave the answer to Kazama. Although the content of the answer was only a guess, there was no doubt in his voice. Yanagi watched the battle of Lu Ganghu and Bradley Zhang, despite the activated technique of the Ghost Walker.

"So they are not in cahoots?"

- Apparently, hunting for deserters is not a cover, but the truth.

Kazama nodded, saying "this is how" and invited everyone to sit down, gesturing their hands pointing at the chairs.

"A special officer will probably be shocked."

"Major Sanada." This time he is not a "special officer". - The answer of Fujibayashi to the jocular words of Sanada also sounded like a joke.

-And the truth. Sanada's voice, who acknowledged his mistake, did not sound guilty, because he also knew it.

-Including his part of the work, the operation goes on schedule. - Of course, under "him" Kazama meant "special officer", that is Tatsuya. Tatsuya participates in this operation as a magician of the Yotsuba family, and not as a special officer of the Independent Magic-Equipped Battalion. This is what the meaning of Fujibayashi 's words was "not a special officer".

However, in the reminder of Kazama, there was talk of cooperation with Chen Xiangshan's division.

The order for a joint operation with the Great Asian Alliance was received from Saeki at the beginning of the month, before the meeting with Tatsuya. But during this meeting on the 17th Kazama did not tell Tatsuya about this. On the desire to cooperate in the capture of diversion-planning deserters. It was not strange when the army of the Great Asian Alliance addressed this proposal. Violation of the peace treaty threatened the problems precisely the Great Asian Alliance, and not Japan.

For the central government of the Great Asian Alliance, which is experiencing fragmentation problems, military control has the highest priority. If they tolerate desertion, it can grow into a major insurgency according to the "domino theory". For the central government, these risks are not something that you can close your eyes to.

Nevertheless, there was also the likelihood that a joint operation to find deserters is used as a cover for some trick. Without such caution, you will not just be a loser, you will be accused of non-performance of duties, renunciation of responsibility, and deprived of an officer's rank. Of course, in the 1-0-1 brigade, General Saeki considered this possibility. Considering the possible deception of the army of the Great Asian Alliance, the choice fell on Kazama.

Kazama also understood this. He was chosen for this mission for a reason, but because he was connected with Chen Xiangshan. Communication with the Yotsuba family had nothing to do with. The case was in the reputation of the "Daitengu" of Kazama Harunobu, who fought with the army of the Great Asian Alliance on the Indochina Peninsula, and also in anticipation that his subordinates could cope with the "Tiger-cannibal" Lu Ganghu.

- At the moment, we are considering the unit of Chen Xiangshan as allies. - Taking into account the results of observations of the current joint actions, and having listened to the report of Yanagi, Kazama decided to trust Chen Xiangshan for the time being.

- At the moment, it means.

As Sanada said in an ironic voice, no one thought that this cooperation would last long.

◊ ◊ ◊

March 23, Saturday.

Immediately after the closing ceremony, Tatsuya, Miyuki and Minami flew to Okinawa. In fact, they wanted to skip school today, but Miyuki is the president of the school board. She should not miss the closing ceremony.

If you think about it, you could go tomorrow, because the first event, in which they need to participate, will be held on the 24th day in the afternoon. However, instead of making a fuss that day, it seemed to them that it is easier to go for a day and to prepare normally.

Honoka and Shizuku will arrive in Okinawa on the 25th in the afternoon. Shizuku's father, Kitayama Ushio, must fly on the plane on the day of the party, and her younger brother and mother Benio must be present on the same ship as she.

Also, yesterday, presumably, Alumni, the Azusa company, had already arrived in Okinawa.

In an airplane five years ago, Tatsuya had an ordinary tight seat. But this time he was in the same seat-a capsule, like that of Miyuki. Minami was also not sent to the usual place, despite the servant's actual position. Minami herself, in a luxurious capsule, felt uncomfortable.

After arriving, these three were accommodated in a luxury hotel near the airport. They did not use the villa on which their mother Miya spent time with Honami while she was still alive. But even if its owner is still Shiba Tatsuro, they still did not want to go there with Minami.

On the day of check-in, nothing remarkable happened. The next day, March 24, was the ceremony of Higan. Since Hayama took all the preparations, only Tatsuya and Miyuki needed a presence, as from the representatives of the Yotsuba family. Miyuki was in a completely black evening dress, and her hair was not her usual ornaments and they were gathered up into a bun. Although she attracted a lot of attention among those present, nothing remarkable happened here either.

After the ceremony, they returned to the hotel, changed their clothes and left to fulfill the real task.

The hotel in which Tatsuya company stayed was close to Naha Airport. The place they went to was also in the vicinity of the airport. It was a two-story restaurant opposite the military base of Naha. Not a restaurant of Okinawan cuisine, but a steak house run by a descendant of US military, once stationed in Okinawa, and he was called "Left Bloods."

The destination of Tatsuya company was the reserved second floor of this restaurant.

◊ ◊ ◊

"Oh, Tatsuya!" Hey, long time no see. "When Tatsuya entered the restaurant, a big black skinhead man called out to him. This physique and a cheerful voice were familiar to him.

-Joe. - In the voice of Tatsuya, who called the name of the interlocutor, was a surprise. - Long time no see. However, what is this appearance? Did you retire?

A military magician, whom he met here 5 years ago, Higaki Joseph, was dressed in a colorful apron with the logo of the establishment.

-Of course, I'm still in the service. The other day I was promoted to sergeant.

-Congratulations.

Five years ago, Joseph was the youngest corporal. It seems that his services during the incident with the invasion of Okinawa were taken into account, and he got up quite well on the career ladder.

"It's closed today." And this outfit is just for help. They will not pay for it, therefore you cannot name it. This institution belongs to my retired friends.

- That's it.

Five years ago, Joseph and his friends walked around the neighborhood in the form of punks. But for the courage in the battles during that incident, the "Left Blood" deserved the softening of a prejudiced attitude toward itself. Looking at him now, you understand that this is really so.

In that incident, part of the "Left Blood" took the side of the enemy. The army kept this secret, and Tatsuya and the others promised to remain silent. Looking at the present Joseph, Tatsuya was again convinced that he was not mistaken.

"As for you, I always hear your name." Is that Tatsuya ...

- Joe. - Interrupted Joe Tatsuya did not speak in an elevated tone.

"Oops, I'm sorry." I've already detained you. - However, Joseph already realized that he allowed himself to say too much. "Your comrades are waiting on the second floor." Please go up this ladder.

Tatsuya bowed to Joseph, and they went to the second floor with Miyuki and Minami.

-This is Shiba Tatsuya. He knocked on the door. Soon, from inside, the sound of the key was heard, and the face of Sanada appeared from behind the door.

"It's good that you came." Well, come on. - Sanada cast a fleeting glance at Minami, apparently because he had not met her before. However, what will happen to them will be reported to Minami in advance. So the three guests were not surprised instead of two.

It was Tatsuya's turn to be surprised. In the room were Kazama, Sanada and an unexpected person. Tatsuya held on to his face * pokerface *, and Miyuki, almost screaming in surprise, covered her mouth with her hands.

"Lieutenant Colonel Kazama, Major Sanada, it's good to meet you."

"I'm happy too, I'm counting on you." - Standing up, and having answered Tatsuya, Kazama drew attention to the sitting next to Chen Xiangshan.

- In this operation we are in a cooperative relationship.

Kazama decided to clarify the situation before offering to sit down, because he understood that the presence of this person cannot be just explained. After all, Chen Xiangshan was here because of a mission, which you cannot just guess.

"This time Colonel Chen from the army of the Great Asian Alliance is our ally." Take note of this and sit down.

-There is. Miyuki.

-Yes. I also understood.

Miyuki sat in an armchair, but not in the one offered by Kazama, but in the one that Tatsuya put forward to her. Also, refusing Kazama, with the words "I'm sorry", Tatsuya sat down next to Miyuki.

Minami stood up diagonally behind Miyuki. Kazama glanced at Minami. But he did not try to force her to sit down.

"Then I'll go straight to an explanation of the current situation."

-You are welcome. Tatsuya replied to the conversation that had begun. Chen Xiangshan was silent all this time.

-There are no large movements among enemy agents penetrating Okinawa. Once, with the help of Colonel Chen, we tried to provoke them, but at the moment we are acting cautiously.

Tatsuya directed his gaze to Chen Xiangshan. From that there was no reaction. Tatsuya again looked at Kazama.

-What are the known enemy forces at the moment?

-Six people on this main island of Okinawa. Among them 2 Japanese and 1 Australian.

"The Australian?"

-According to the passport. Also, the place of departure of the plane, on which he flew - Sydney Airport.

-What is known about this Australian?

-The name is James Jackson. Age 40 years. Profession is a journalist.

Hearing the word "journalist", Tatsuya made an understanding face. Masking under the reporter is a good cover for sending agents.

-The purpose of the visit is tourism. With him is a 12-year-old daughter. "Is she really his daughter?"

"Here's a picture." - Kazama handed Tatsuya a tablet terminal. Tatsuya turned the terminal so Miyuki could also see, and looked carefully at the screen. There was displayed the image of a mustached man and a girl, about 12-13 years old, wearing a straw hat.

- It does not look like a parent and a child.

Suppose they are really a parent and a child. - Tatsuya Kazama expressed his impression with a bitter smile. - If this is a disguise, then I do not understand the intention to bring such a girl. Are they going to use it in a suicide attack?

"If it's really a girl." - To these words Tatsuya Kazama slightly rounded his eyes.

"Do you mean if she does not look her age?"

- It's hard to say for sure only one photo.

"Hmm, you cannot deny that possibility." However, information from Australia is extremely difficult to obtain. For now, let's just keep in mind the opportunity you indicated.

Kazama did not use the military appeal to Tatsuya, but simply said "you." [in Japan there is a "military"

"you" (貴 官 / kikan), used in official communication when addressing military and officials]

At the moment he was not a "Special Officer Ooguro Riyuuya," but "Shiba Tatsuya from Yotsuba." This was due to the presence of Chen Xiangshan. Chen Xiangshan does not know that Tatsuya is a magician of the Strategic Class. • Special Officer Ooguro Riyuuya, but on the other hand he saw the fighting power of Tatsuya and Miyuki during the Yokohama incident.

However, Kazama does not hide from Chen Xiangshan cooperation with "Shiba Tatsuya" for another reason. Foreign magicians are planning subversive activities against Japan. "It's no wonder" that Yotsuba from the Ten Master Clans is using his powers to remove this problem. Since Tatsuya was declared a member of the Yotsuba family, one can say that the existence of the Special Officer Ooguro Riyuuya is now connected only with the secret of the magician of the Strategic Class.

"There is still no activity on Kuma Island." However, there is no doubt that the aim of diversion of agents is an artificial island off the western coast of Kuma.

There was no reason to say that this was accurate data. But Tatsuya did not doubt it. The purpose of the defense in the instructions provided by Maya was the artificial island "Saikasin". Tatsuya suggested that Kazama determined that the enemy's target is an artificial island, based on information provided by Chen Xiangshan.

-Let me know as soon as any movement appears. Until now, we are regaining strength.

-I got it.

Tatsuya understood his role. He and Miyuki, as members of the Yotsuba family, were too noticeable. The beauty of Miyuki was not the only thing that attracted attention at today's ceremony. These searing glances from all sides, these impudent whisperings behind their backs, the attention of the media - all this proved that their personalities were well known.

-That's all I wanted to say. Do you have any questions?

-No, nothing special.

-I see. What are you going to do now?

"Miyuki seems to be a little tired from the ceremony." I think we'll go back to the hotel to rest.

When Tatsuya said this, Miyuki bowed to Kazama with an apologetic face. It was an excuse not to stay in this place. Maybe for the army, Chen Xiangshan was now an ally, but for Tatsuya and Miyuki, he was not an interlocutor with whom they can communicate peacefully.

"You came from Tokyo only yesterday?" It is quite natural to be tired. - Sanada, who was silent before that, said, apparently, that everything will not get worse. - Because Fujibayashi-kun also said that she was tired.

- Really.

"Is there a break for Senior Lieutenant Fujibayashi?" I saw her at the ceremony, but there was no way to talk, and I wanted to say hello here.

For a moment Sanada's face showed concern that it gave out that the reason for the absence of Fujibayashi is not so simple as it was said.

The reason for the absence of Fujibayashi was that she avoided looking Tatsuya in the face.

"Ah, she's resting on the base." I'm sorry. - Tatsuya's answer was answered by Kazama.

- I got it.

Tatsuya did not begin to ask further questions, why there is no commander's assistant.

◊ ◊ ◊

Around the same time, when Tatsuya met with Kazama.

"Um, is it really good that I went too?" - Said a handsome young man walking in a group of people around the shopping center.

"What is it, Sawaki?" Is it too late to ask? Hattori replied in a surprised voice to Sawaki's question.

"Right, Sawaki." Was it not the third day already?

"That's right, but if I did not go, would there be three pairs?" I thought that I understood the situation.

- Wh ...!?

"S-Sawaki-kun, what are you talking about !?" Me and Hattori-kun are not in such a relationship! - Instead of the hesitating Hattori, the reddened Azusa spoke.

-As Nakajou said. I think that a single guy or girl in a company of two couples will not feel uncomfortable.

Hattori looked "it was expected" by looking at Isori, Kanon, Kirihara and Sayaka.

Isori was in a fashionable patterned shirt with an open neck and beige Chinese pants. Kanon was in the same colorful shirt and in a beige skirt to the knees. Equally matched in color, the clothes gave out a pair.

Kirihara was wearing a simple T-shirt and white jeans. Sayaka was wearing a T-shirt of the same color and white, shortened to 3/4 length, with jeans. Again, the same clothes gave out a pair.

The clothes of Azusa and Hattori differed. In contrast, dressed in a light jacket Hattori, Azusa was dressed in a rough style in shorts and a sweater with a hood. Indeed, it was impossible to say that they were together.

In response to Hattori's words and glance, the two couples laughed.

They are graduates who have just finished First High at the National University of Magic. Isori and Kanon, Kirihara and Sayaka. Hattori, Azusa, and finally Sawaki - these were the seven graduates participating in this trip.

- Sawaki-kun thought so, because of what he saw, watching earlier for Shiba- kun? - asked Isori, looking around. To his left hand, Kanon was stuck, but Isori did not show that he was worried. No one could say if this couple in love is classmates. Sawaki, it seems, did not bother.

"I did not notice anything like that, but since you say so ..." With a face showing "that's it," Sawaki nodded. Standing near Hattori, put in the zucchini, saying "What are you talking about?".

"However, I probably understand the train of thought of Sawaki- kun." Though it may be unreasonable to think about such at the ceremony of respecting the deceased, but Shiba-kun and Miyuki-san really looked suitable to each other. "There was a bit of admiration and a little envy in Sayaka's voice. - When it comes to the beauty of Miyuki-san, it is difficult to find the right person for a balanced couple, but the presence of Shiba-kun was not lost at all against her background.

-These two did not look like high school students at all. Kirihara teased the admiring Sayaka. Not only Sayaka, but also Kanon from Isori, Hattori, and even Azusa involuntarily laughed.

-Ah, and the truth. I was particularly impressed by the magnificent appearance of Shiba-kun. It seemed to me not just an image of a magician, not just an image of a member of the Yotsuba family, but an image of a warrior.

The only person, Sawaki, nodded with a serious face.

- ... Everything is fine. Because Sawaki-kun also looks at him as a warrior.

With a look that says "Is it true?", Sawaki looked at Kanon that had said it.

As mentioned before, Isori and the company visited the ceremony of commemorating the victims of the incident of the invasion of Okinawa, and after that they chatted while walking around the city. They had no special purpose. Goals such as buying accessories, for example. That's why the fact that Sayaka noticed this girl was not just an accident.

"What's the matter, Mibu?" Kirihara followed Sayaka's gaze and frowned. -

... In our time to see children of European appearance - after all, it's not that rare?

There, where Sayaka was looking, a 12-13 year old girl with chestnut hair stood alone. By the color of the skin and the outlines of the face it was possible to see that she was of a European race.

-I am not talking about that. Do not you see?

-Mm? - After Sayaka's words, Kirihara again looked at the girl and suddenly narrowed his eyes.

"What is it, Kirihara?"

"... She's restless." This atmosphere. "After Hattori asked Kirihara, Sawaki whispered his sense of the situation. A lonely girl standing, who was waiting for someone (perhaps parents), the adult man stole furtively.

In total there were four of them. Surrounding, they slowly approached her.

"Abduction?" - Hattori said in a contemptuous voice, and went to the wrong side to prevent kidnapping and indecent acts.

"Wait, Hattori." Come Kirihara and me. - Sawaki stopped him, laying his hand on his shoulder. He turned with his face, which read the question "why?".

-Kirihara and I are close combat fighters, and not very good at a long distance. Isori is not a fighter. Protecting girls, you're the only one who can use defensive magic in an emergency. - Sawaki answered him and went to the girl. Kirihara followed him. Sayaka hailed him behind him.

"Kirihara-kun, I'll go too." - But Sayaka did not try to stop Kirihara. She wanted to go with him.

-No, but ... Look at these guys, do not you think that their goals are not at all peaceful?

Kirihara, who indirectly said "do not go, it's dangerous there," Sayaka expressed her objection.

-When Kirihara-kun and Sawaki-kun come closer, they will not differ from other strange personalities.

Kirihara twisted his face in disgust. The girl was a junior high school student, or just enrolled in high school. And he is already almost a student. Since Kirihara entered the National Academy of Defense, he will soon become a public civil servant. Indeed, if he and Sawaki talk to this girl, it can lead to a misunderstanding. Kirihara admitted that Sayaka's warning is correct.

"... Understood." Just do not move away from me.

- I got it.

Sayaka knew that her only skill was mastery of the sword. She was not going to do anything foolish.

Kirihara looked around. Isori, Kanon, and the remaining Hattori nodded to him. Kirihara and Sayaka stepped up the pace and caught up with Sawaki.

Approaching the girl, Kirihara and Sawaki realized that they did not think what to do next. Both decided that we should start a conversation. But they did not know what to say. From the girl's point of view, they are still strange people. A sudden voice scattered their thoughts about it.

-Hi. I am Sayaka.

-Hi ... Hello. I'm Jas.

Finally Sayaka spoke to the girl. First she wanted to say: "I must speak English?" I do not know French and Italian. " - but the conversation began in Japanese, and fortunately, the girl understood it.

"Jas, are you waiting for someone?"

- Daddy ... I'm waiting for Dad.

Sayaka tried to hide her shock from the fact that a runaway Japanese girl was an order of magnitude better than her knowledge of English.

-I see. He asked me to wait here? Just one? "Areasan, are you from the police?"

-Eh? No, it's not.

-I see. Could you take me to where there is a policeman? Dad seems to be lost.

It was not she who was lost, but Dad. Apparently she did not want to admit that she was lost. Thoughts about this raised the mood to Sayaka. At that moment, she noticed how Kirihara and the Sawaki had moved so that Sayaka and the girl were between them.

There were no pedestrians in the vicinity. Four men in dark glasses surrounded them and approached. The clothes of these four people, as well as the design of sunglasses, were different. However, the mistakes that they could not have been together, there was a similar aura around them. It was similar behavior, not facial features or physique.

"Four? ..." Kirihara muttered in a tone of displeasure.

In the battle there will be many participants. Even if you count only men, there will be 4 against 4.

"However, one cannot be forced to fight Nakajou with her skills. The magic of Chiyoda cannot be used in this case. We are already getting involved in this. Isori also better not to get involved in this, but then it turns out ..."

In fact, three against four. Reflecting on this, Kirihara felt impatient, and unconsciously expelled Sayaka from the participants in the battle.

"Kirihara, Mibu, run away." Sawaki suddenly said in such a low voice that Kirihara and Sayaka barely heard him. It was not an offer. He decided for them and pushed them.

"Kirihara, Mibu, go ahead!"

- Really! Mibu! - Swearing, Kirihara called Sayaka.

"Jas, come with us!" - Sayaka took the girl by the hand.

-Okay .

Surprisingly, the girl, who called herself Jas, did not hesitate and obeyed Sayaka, following her.

Kirihara, and Sayaka with Jas behind him, ran towards Hattori and the others. Sawaki was left behind. On both sides, people wearing sunglasses moved to Kirihara.

-From the road! - Kirihara without additional conversations wedged in between these two people.

People with sunglasses in their hands did not have anything. They attacked Kirihara with their bare hands. One of them attacked his foot in a jump. Kirihara twisted his body and dodged. Another man attacked the right fist that was stopped by the sudden attack of Kirihara. Kirihara beat his fist with the palm of his hand. Immediately bending the discarded arm at the elbow, the man aimed a blow at Kirihara. Shortening the distance, Kirihara hit his right elbow with his left elbow. Stopping the man, he attacked directly on the forehead. The enemy blocked Kirihara's attack with his left hand. There was a feeling that the impact hit a rubber tire.

Kirihara retreated and attacked from the side of another enemy, who aimed at Sayaka. This second enemy did not shy away, but blocked the blow of Kirihara. And in addition to the block, he pushed him back with his foot. Not expecting such a reaction, Kirihara lost his balance. However, this did not become a fatal mistake. During the strike of Kirihara, Sayaka already removed from her jeans trousers a narrow belt.

The belt, which seemed an impractical fashionable object, in one stroke turned into a small sword. It was a weapon for self-defense, created by Isori on the basis of the technique of the Chiba family "Usub Kagero." He did not have the keenness of the original "Usub Kagero," but even if the user did not possess the skills of strengthening magic, it could demonstrate the strength of the attack at the level of the real sword. And with the skills of the Sayaka saber, it went beyond the weapons of self-defense.

Sayaka had such a dangerous thing with her, not because she had a presentiment of danger. It was just an accident. Although he created a hidden weapon, imitating the technique of Usub Kagero, neither Isori nor Kanon had the skills of a swordsman. Erika could have used it, but even the dilettante in the Izyori kenjutsu knew that such weapons would not suit her.

It was because of the maiden design that in his time he could not ask Kirihara to test it. That's why he turned for help to Sayaka, who he was not very familiar at the time. And so it coincided that Sayaka remembered about this request today, so there was no reason not to try.

Belt-sword, which acquired the strength of wrought iron with the help of magic engraving, Sayaka attacked the advancing enemy against her in a torso. But the attack passed by, as the man jumped back, gaining a distance from Kirihara and Sayaka. At the same time, a blast of cold air came over the man.

It was the magic of Hattori, who used adiabatic expansion as the basis of his attack. The air was compressed, without changing the temperature, and after the compression was lifted, it expanded at an explosive rate, cooling. Being under blows and at a low temperature, this man was not able to do something.

The second person, who had previously blocked Kirihara's attack, lost his balance, trying to move forward for the attack. With the restless face Azusa looked at the feet of this man. He slipped on the result of the magic of Azusa. The road was made of porous concrete. Countless microscopic holes were made to allow water to flow through them. And now compressed air flowed from the holes, forming a kind of air cushion.

Since Kirihara lost his balance earlier, he recovered faster. Kirihara, in one step, narrowing the gap, poked his index finger in the throat of a man ... more precisely just touched his finger. The man tried to brush off Kirihara's hand. However, his movement stopped halfway, and as a puppet, in which the ropes were cut, the man in dark glasses collapsed.

The strength of Kirihara was a high-frequency blade, which, to put it briefly, is magic, which makes it vibrate at high speed any rod-like objects that it touches.

That is, he could shake everything he touched. The goal was not limited to non-living objects.

Kirihara caused the magic of vibration, taking the opponent's neck by the hilt of the sword, and the head by the blade, thereby causing a severe concussion.

Making sure that the enemy is immobilized, Kirihara looked around. He suspected that forced to go alone against two enemies, Sawaki is fighting hard. But this was unnecessary anxiety. One person was already lying on the road. And at the moment, Sawaki has already knocked the last one out.

Isori company of seven people, along with a girl named Jas, went to a fast food restaurant in a shopping center. Despite the fact that many wanted to stay, waiting for the police, Sawaki strongly insisted that they leave immediately. On the part of the girls there were fears that this would make Jas Father worry, but Jas herself solved this problem by saying: "I have a mobile phone with GPS, so everything is in order." The first words "Daddy got lost, take me to the police" apparently were said because of suspicions to the company Kirihara.

-Sorry for waiting.

-Excuse me.

"So much is enough." - Hattori thanked Kanon and Isori, who went for drinks for everyone, and Sayaka was talking with Jas at the table where everyone gathered.

"Jas, it's all right?" Are you scared?

-Yes, it's okay. Onaesan and the guys, thank you. - Skillful possession of Japanese, as well as a calm attitude towards the situation made me think that she is not a child at all. Pupils of magic schools also seem to people more mature than their real age, but in the case of Jas it was something more.

However, they could not just take it and ask "how old are you?" the person with whom they met in such circumstances.

"Do you know what those people wanted from you?" - Asked Kanon instead.

- No. I do not know.

Jas had no reason to hide something. No one even thought that such a small child could have such acting skills that it was impossible to determine that she was hiding something.

"Well ... I do not think they'll attack such a crowded place, but we'll still stay with you until your dad comes, so everything will be fine."

Right after the words of Kanon, as if overhearing,

"Jas!"

A male voice called Jas by name.

-Yes, daddy. Despite the desperate voice of the man, the girl's voice remained calm. At least, she did not have the impression of helplessness.

"I was worried because you were so suddenly lost." ... Um, and you guys, who are they?

Allegedly, Father Jas looked at Isori company, not hiding his suspicions and alertness.

"You're Jas-san's Father, are not you?" My name is Hattori Gyuba. - I got up and introduced myself to the man Hattori. Naturally, they looked suspicious (at least Hattori believed so), so he decided to give an explanation.

"We happened to be in a place where a group of four men tried to kidnap Jas-san. We could not pretend that we did not see anything, and took Jas- san to a crowded place.

"So that's what happened? ... I apologize for being late." I, Father Jas, James Jackson, desu. [note. perev .: his speech is written in katakana, apparently to show the crooked pronunciation of words]

Although suspicions still remained, but Father Jas introduced himself in a more calm voice. Japanese was much worse than that of his daughter, but sufficient for communication. Not only did Hattori sense a feigned awkwardness, the rest also did not doubt it.

-Although we fought back from the attackers, we still decided to leave that place, given the possibility that they had accomplices. If you want to report to the police, I will accompany you.

" No , it's not necessary."

- That's how ... I will not ask your situation, but I advise you to avoid the deserted places.

-Yes. We will return to the hotel . Thank you for helping my daughter , thank you very much .

-No, it goes without saying that we helped.

-Thank you. Bye-bye . - Jas, holding his father's hands, turned and waved. Sayaka, Kanon and Azusa, waving their hands, followed them with their eyes.

When these two disappeared, Hattori asked Sawaki in a low voice:

"Sawaki, why did not you want to wait for the police?" - Hattori could not just discard the thoughts of the four left lying on the road people.

They were not close friends, but for 3 years at Hattori school, he became close enough with Sawaki to know his character. Therefore, Hattori suggested that Sawaki would not worry about the kidnappers.

"The guys I fought with spoke Chinese."

"What?"

- Shh! - Suddenly Kirikara cried out Sayaka sitting on the next seat.

"Oh, uh, I'm sorry." - Having gathered the views of everyone at the table, he turned away and apologized. However, along with this, he did not stop. "Is it

... the same as 2 years ago?"

Even without mentioning the country called the Great Asian Alliance, there was no one here who could not understand Kirihara's question.

"You cannot say for sure just because they spoke Chinese?" It can be a criminal organization that is not related to the government. Hattori's objection was reasonable.

"So it's true, but their skills were inspired by army martial arts." - However, these words Sawaki had nothing to refute.

"No, for something like this to happen again ...?"

No one laughed at Sayaka's sinister expectations.

◊ ◊ ◊

Return to the hotel, voiced by James Jackson, was not a lie. But this was the only truth from all that was said.

"Captain Johnson, what kind of suspicious Japanese did you show earlier?" - Jas, more accurately belonging to the Australian corps of military magicians, Captain Jasmine Williams, having finished checking the room for wiretapping, asked the reproachful voice of his "father."

"Should I not look like a foreigner who is not used to Japan?"

"James Jackson" was a fictitious name. The real name of this man was James J. Johnson. Like Jasmine, he was the captain of the Australian corps of military magicians.

"Like a third-rate comedian." I think it attracted a lot of unnecessary attention. Those guys looked like they suspected something.

- Really?

In response to James's lack of seriousness, Jasmine only sighed.

"... Next time we'll change partners."

"I do not think we can do this."

Jasmine sighed even more. As James said, working with him in a pair started not today or yesterday. Covering the parent and child was invented long before this mission.

Captain Jasmine Williams is an improved magician. She was born with almost such magical abilities, which were planned in advance, but as a result of genetic correction an anomaly was obtained, which was considered a side effect.

The body remained unripe. By the age of 20 it became clear that her 12- year-old face did not change. And over the next nine years, growth was not observed. It was a picture, inverse to the syndrome of progeria.

The Australian army did not try to cure its genetic anomaly. A magician with sufficient military training and the appearance of a girl. They decided that this way it would be more useful than with the usual appearance of a young girl. To use this feature, the Australian army trained her as an expert in penetration operations.

However, with the appearance of a 12-year-old child, so that nothing is suspected, the list of possible situations for action is limited. Therefore, James plays the cover-up role of the "parent". As a "parent and child", in the past they participated in many missions. Of course, for the role of "parent" is not exactly James.

Captain James J. Johnson was 180 cm tall, weighing 75 kg, had a brown hair color and light brown eyes. This appearance struck less than other European men. Nevertheless, if you look at people in the Australian army, then it was not some kind of special appearance, which he would stand out. James was appointed partner of Jasmine, because he was highly valued by his abilities as a combat magician.

Jasmine is a magician specializing in long-range field attacks. Because of the low physical skills associated with the state of her body, she is not able to conduct melee.

On the other hand, James is a magician of the avant-garde type, specializing in the magic of self-acceleration. He is stronger than he looks, and stunts like "grab Jasmine and carry away from the enemy" have already become the norm for them. In a word, these two have good compatibility. Being in pairs for many years, they know each other well. The leadership will not accept the cancellation of their duet now.

"Have you identified the identities of those people?" - Having stopped grumbling without business, Jasmine translated the topic to those who wanted to attack her.

- Agents of the Great Asian Alliance. Very similar to our accomplices.

"Are these the forces of persecution?" How the hell did they reveal our identities? - Jasmine nodded in agreement, and then bent her head in an interrogative gesture. "Oh, did not you mean Japanese intelligence?"

James's answer to her question was simple.

-Perhaps the army of the Great Asian Alliance and the Japanese army joined forces?

-There is no other reason for such active public actions.

"Is it not surprising, immediately after the conclusion of the peace treaty?"

James's reasoning did not sound meaningful, but Jasmine persuaded him. Maybe she also thought about it.

"They must show cooperation after reconciliation in order to avoid the active actions of the New Soviet Union or the USNA.

"I mean that, despite the unofficial nature of their joint operation, the agents of each country should not lose their vigilance.

-Not only this. If they allow a diversion planned by the faction of opponents of reconciliation, then Japan and the Great Asian Alliance will lose their reputation. The Great Asian Alliance wants to catch deserters on its own, and Japan does not want new terrorist attacks on its territory. A degree of tractability can be achieved.

"Their interests are completely opposite to ours."

-Naturally. Because we are trying to disrupt the launch ceremony of a large national project.

These two did not just discuss the current situation. As they talked, they hastily packed their things.

-I've finished. Jas?

-I also. Let's go too.

Since Jasmine has already become a target, this hotel is also under observation. Both Jasmine and James understood this without further ado. Right now, they are also likely to be shadowed. Even if you try to get out through the back door, it, too, is most likely kept under surveillance.

To get rid of the surveillance, these two decided to take some rough measures.

◊ ◊ ◊

The work entrusted to Tatsuya by Maya was to prevent a terrorist attack during the celebration of the completion of the construction of an artificial island. This time the work did not include the search for saboteurs. It was the task of the brigade 1-0-1, and at the meeting, Kazama said that he would contact when the saboteurs were discovered. Perhaps, Kazama did not want the secreted Strategic Class magician Tatsuya to interact with the army of the Great Asian Alliance, and perhaps this was the decision of Lieutenant- General Saeki.

He could not act as a fighter of the Independent Magic-Equipped Battalion, "Special Officer Ooguro Ryuuya," so he could not use special equipment, such as a mobile suit. Luckily for Tatsuya, this meant that there was no need to act separately from Miyuki.

"Can we go back to the hotel for a little while?" - A little away from the steak house, where they spoke with Kazama, Tatsuya turned to Miyuki. They did not lie to Kazama when they said they wanted to return to the hotel.

-And the truth. I'm a little tired.

-Call a taxi? - Walking next to Minami, hearing the intention of Miyuki, instantly reacted and asked if to call a taxi. Despite the proximity of the hotel, on foot to it to go about 10 minutes.

-Yes please.

-Yes, I do. - Minami took out her mobile terminal from her bag and tried to get access to the dispatcher's unmanned taxi. But soon she frowned in doubt.

"Minami, what happened?" - Seeing confusion Minami, Tatsuya asked her.

"It's ... The taxi dispatcher is not responding."

- Taxi Dispatch?

Minami nodded. Tatsuya took out his terminal and ran his fingers over it.

-... No connection due to traffic routing problems. Muttered Tatsuya, but loud enough for Miyuki and Minami to hear. - This is not a software problem. Hardware failure ... no, diversion?

Miyuki's complexion changed. Minami's expression also expressed concern.

"Does it mean ... that the terrorists made their move?"

When asked by Miyuki, Tatsuya shook his head. From side to side, not vertically.

-If a local failure occurs, the route will simply switch to an alternative line. Without another diversion, such as arson or armed insurrection, such terrorist activities do not make sense.

-Ah, it's connected. - Involuntarily pronounced Minami, confirming the hypothesis of Tatsuya.

"Maybe it was because of the escape." It is not known whether this was planned, or was accidental, but it looks like someone destroyed several base stations of retransmission in order to prevent the pursuit.

Military communication repeaters were secretly embedded in the civil mobile network, and were used to organize communications in urban areas with many obstacles, as well as for the uninterrupted transmission of large amounts of data. Even if all civilian base stations are destroyed, military communications lines will be organized through the stratospheric platform or satellites.

Destroying several base stations will only give a temporary effect of disruption of communication. For a minute or less. However, a minute is enough if you need to find a loophole in the tracking network and escape from the pursuers. The current adversary, apparently, was skilled enough if he could take advantage of this small chance. These were Tatsuya's reflections.

"... Does this mean that the saboteurs are somewhere near us?"

- "We were not far from us" you should have said. The absence of other diversions with a high probability shows that they have already fled. - Against Miyuki's question, Tatsuya again denied it. "Minami, call the taxi." We're going to the hotel.

"As you wish, Tatsuya-sama."

Even with the "Elemental Sight" Tatsuya cannot track the criminal, having as an initial information only the assumption that the one who did it - the instigator of diversion. At this stage, he cannot do anything.

In addition, at the moment, Tatsuya does not need to rush into battle. Moreover, in the case of the "Hakone incident", the quality of the support involved was different. When it comes to finding information on the Web, Sanada and Fujibayashi should find some clues. Perhaps they have already tracked the enemy's new location.

Reflecting on the fact that everything had its time, Tatsuya and Miyuki and Minami sat down in an approaching unmanned taxi.

◊ ◊ ◊

Tatsuya's assumption was only partly correct.

"The capture squad sent to check the hotel and search for Australian saboteurs was completely destroyed." Killed there, but all incapacitated. - A voice in which feelings of repressed emotions were felt, he made a report in a room based on self-defense forces. In this room, appointed temporary control room, Fujibayashi told Kazama about the failure of the operation.

-Destroyed? ... Reinforcement of the enemy?

-No. The capture team suffered a magical attack.

The people of Kazama really were on the tail of saboteurs. But they could not detain them.

"What kind of attacks?"

- They have acute poisoning with highly concentrated ozone gas.

-"Ozone circle"? - Looking at his terminal, Sanada added a thoughtful voice to the report of Fujibayashi.

"Sanada?"

-Yes. I apologize. - Having heard his name, spoken by Kazama, Sanada realized his inappropriate behavior before a higher officer. Therefore hastily apologized.

-Everything is fine. And yet, the "Ozone Circle"?

-Yes. Although there is another magic that can create ozone, but if a whole squad of trained counterterrorism fighters is defeated outdoors, and not indoors, then, in my opinion, there is a high probability that this is the "Ozone Circle".

"... Really."

The detachment sent to capture passed numerous counter-terrorism preparations, which included methods of counteracting not only explosives and firearms, but also chemical weapons. If they feel signs of threat, they will not suffer from gas attacks. Apparently, enemy magic took them by surprise, trapped in a highly concentrated ozone gas.

If you look for magic that can generate a large amount of ozone in a short time, then, as Sanada said, the first candidate will be the "Ozone Circle".

- Australian magician with the "Ozone circle"?

"There's nothing strange about it." - Sanada objected to the doubts of Fujibayashi.

The "ozone circle" was the magic of the Strategic Class, whose famous users were William MacLeod of Britain and Carl Schmidt from Germany. Initially, it was developed in the European Union before its division, and was intended to combat ozone holes.

Information on the sequence of magic "Ozone Circle" was provided to all the former EU countries before the division. The Australian army could gain access to it, as a former member of the British Commonwealth of Nations.

In other words, this means that a person who calls himself James Jackson is either a girl given out for his daughter or they are both magicians of the Australian army.

-Fujibayashi, did you find out the real personality of these two?

-No, not yet. However, according to the testimony of psion sensors, the user of the magic that cut down the capture group is presumably Jasmine Jackson.

-Girl?

"Or a magician with the appearance of a girl."

After the words of Fujibayashi, the doubting face of Kazama cleared up.

"Does not look like her age?" Tatsuya said something similar.

From the mention of the name Tatsuya Fujibayashi slightly shuddered. But Kazama did not know what feelings it reflected.

"I think that the commander personally knows examples when drug agents suppressed secondary sexual characteristics of intelligence agents." Also likely the existence of a similar agent, which took measures to control growth.

Kazama did not comment on this inhumane suggestion of

Fujibayashi. Instead, he asked:

-Have the identities of those who prevented the unit of the Great Asian Alliance been established?

-Yes. - On the face of Fujibayashi a bitter grin arose. - They are graduates of First High at the National University of Magic. We went to the graduation trip, sempai Tatsuya-kun, a year older than him.

-By the way, the eldest son of the Isori family was invited to a party in honor of completing the construction of an artificial island. Then it turns out they accidentally interfered, no, intervened?

Kazama sighed and grinned. In addition to this case, there were no more mentions of graduates of First High.

"Fujibayashi, continue to investigate the identity of agents." Sanada, look for the main enemy forces.

-I got it.

-I found James Jackson and Jasmine Jackson on a camera from the air. They will not run away.

-Well.

At the same time, having risen, and having saluted Kazama, Sanada and Fujibayashi left the room.

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