Translator: Skythewood
Editor: Hiiro
After an intense battle, the victorious First Imperial Fleet accepted the surrender of the Admiral Elulufay Tenerexilla. They entered the harbor and seized port Nemong, imprisoning most of the enemy troops. They accomplished their mission of gaining control of the southern part of the former eastern territories─ that was two days ago.
「─Ara, you haven’t went ashore yet, Igsem-san?」
The clear blue skies made the terrible weather during the battle feel like in a dream. The flagship 「Yellow Dragon」 was berthed at the port. Naval Commander Kanron who was attending to the miscellaneous work on board noticed the vermillion haired girl standing at a corner of the front deck, and spoke with her warmly.
「Yes, Naval Commander Kanron. I’m waiting for a report from my subordinate.」
「That is fine and all, but aren’t your unit heading off to the Hioredo ore mines today? If you don’t rest on land before your trip, it would take more time for your body to shake off the moist air of the sea.」
「Thank you for your concern, I will do as you advise once I get my report. I’m starting to miss the land that wouldn’t sway.」
「Haha, is that right? It’s only natural for you to feel that way after experiencing those violent waves. But I heard you had an outstanding performance after charging onto the enemy ship.」
「Not really. I wasn’t used to fighting on the ship, but I was lucky that my opponent used the wrong tactic.」
Yatori answered with a smile, and her subordinates just happen to return back onto the ship through the gangway. They handed a very small item to their commander and whispered a report to her ear. Naval Commander Kanron understood their conversation was over, and was about to turn and leave…
「─Please wait, Naval Commander Kanron.」
However, Yatori stopped him with a slightly strong tone.
「? What’s the matter, Igsem-san?」
「It’s regrettable… But before returning to shore, there’s a job I have to do.」
The aura around the vermillion haired girl turned serious. All of her subordinates had ran off, as if they were fleeing from her.
Naval Commander Kanron realized that the situation was abnormal.
「Not long ago, a message pigeon was sent from this ship. My subordinates just reported to me the result of that action.」
「… What’s going on here?」
Naval Commander Kanron asked with a suspicious attitude, and Yatori explained with a stiff tone:
「Before the naval battle began, aside from the issue of tactics, I had another concern, which was the possibility of our intel being leaked. The surprise attack from downwind was key to this battle, and the plan will fall through the moment the enemy caught wind of it.」
「… Ugh…?」
「But given the situation, this concern might seem unnecessary. After all, we are in the middle of the ocean, even if there were traitors in the vessels, they had no way of communicating with the enemy. Even so, I couldn’t dismiss this possibility completely. Because on the 『Yellow Dragon』 that I was on, there was one possible way of communication.」
「… The message pigeons… huh.」
「That’s right. By using the pigeon’s ability to fly home from up to 1,000 km away, it might be possible to bring information from the middle of the ocean to the enemy fleet. This would require a pigeon raised in Port Nemong, but we can’t rule out that the traitor didn’t make the preparations ahead of time.」
The pigeon might have been trained further, but since it just had to perform a simple delivery, Yatori excluded the explanation as it was certainly irrelevant.
「… That might be possible, but I think that is being too paranoid.」
「Assuming the spy prepared the pigeons ahead of time, there are limited spots for him to safekeep them. It is easy to hide a tree in a forest─ hence, the most sensible way is to mixed it in with the official military pigeons. After all, it is difficult to rear a pigeon in secret on a ship for too long. Even if he did, the pigeon might become too weak when it is time to despatch it. The chance of the pigeon making it back isn’t too high, so one of his problem is that he couldn’t prepare too many of them─ so I conclude that the answer lies with the official military pigeons, and focus on them.」
「… If that is so, then the countermeasure is simple, correct? Just don’t despatch the pigeon.」
「Yes, I thought of that too. But that only cures the symptoms, and doesn’t get to the root of the problem. So I had a greedier thought, that it would be even better to unearth the traitor─ and had a meeting with Admiral Jurgus.」
「……!」
「After explaining the risk of our intel leaking, the Admiral accepted the proposal to not release any pigeons. On one hand, there wasn’t any urgent matters to inform headquarters, and at the same time, the weather was starting to deteriorate, so the chance of establishing control wasn’t too high… So I made another proposal─ pretending to despatch the pigeon, but hiding it somewhere instead.」
「…… Ugh!」
「If my worries are true, then a Port Nemong pigeon should be hidden amongst the military pigeons. In other words, it will return to a cage somewhere after it had been released. If we can locate that cage, that will be the best evidence that there is a traitor among us.」
By this time, a large number of soldiers had gathered around them, including Torway. Aside from the army personnel, marines armed with cutlass joined the encirclement nonchalantly.
「The pigeons we pretend to despatch were hidden in the bottom deck of the 『Yellow Dragon』, and were released just twenty minutes ago. We had located the pigeon cages in the port, and assigned men to check on them. The report earlier was about this incident… Regrettably, we found three pigeons from this ship returning to the cage in this port.」
Yatori said as she reached into her breast pocket and took out a piece of paper folded many times.
「This letter is found on one of the pigeons, I just got it from my subordinate who went to check the cage.」
She then unclench her right fist that was closed this entire time, then unfolded another piece of paper.
「Danmier Kanron… that’s the name signed off on it─ Naval Commander, this is something you wrote, correct?」
Yatori showed the note filled completely with words on her hands, and observed with a calm attitude. The soldiers around them watched with bated breath as Naval Commander Kanron spoke expressionlessly:
「…Igsem-san, are you accusing me of being a traitor?」
「The pigeon with this message flew to this port, and the letter on it was written by you. That’s the result of my investigation.」
「What about the contents? Did it lay out the battle plans?」
「At first glance, it look like a situation report to headquarters. But after reading it a few times, I can spot weird spots in the phrasing and expressions. I suspect that there is a hidden code.」
「That’s just your opinion, you don’t know my usual literary style, correct?」
「That’s true. I’m not going to prove there is a hidden code right here, and what I said included all the facts I want to mention─ The pigeon with this message flew to this port, and the letter on it was written by you.」
Yatori repeated herself, emphasizing her words─ She wasn’t interested in being steered off topic on trivial matters, and made that clear to Naval Commander Kanron.
「… How unsightly, Danmier.」
At this moment, a tall and beautiful man─ Admiral Jurgus, walked in through the encirclement with a tense face. Naval Commander Kanron looked at his superior without any reservation.
「Admiral, do you hold the same opinion? That I am a spy from Kioka?」
「I don’t know. But no matter what the truth is, you are awfully unsightly. If you are really a spy, then you are a fool who got uncovered; if not, you are a fool who got framed… As for me who appointed someone like you as my deputy, I will join the family of fools today too, how splendid.」
「… Before confirming if I am guilty, you are admonishing me for being unsightly? That’s just like you.」
The soldier under suspicion said with a bitter smile, then raised his arms quietly.
「I will surrender for now. I want to prove my innocence, but that will be difficult, given the circumstances. Confine me to my room or lock me in the brigg if you want. In the meantime, I will think of a way to show that I’m innocent.」
「Yes, I’m looking forward to that. I don’t wish to part with that punchable mouth of yours in such a way either.」
Admiral Jurgus ordered the marines with his face still bitter.
「Enough talk, take Naval Commander Kanron to the steerage.」
The marines armed with cutlass surrounded the sides and back of the suspect. Urged silently by them, Naval Commander Kanron walked forth obediently. Yatori and Torway went into the ship with a few of their men.
「Can I ask one thing, Igsem-san?」
Naval Commander Kanron asked as he walked down the stairs. Yatori nodded passed the marines escorting him, and he continued:
「There is something I didn’t understand about what happened just now… Seeing how serious you were towards the possibiliity of intel leaks, I presume your preparations weren’t just a precautionary measure, right? You have a strong suspicion of a traitor way before the naval battle.」
「It is as you say, I did think there is a traitor. Specifical speaking, I suspect that you are a traitor.」
「But why? Did I act or say anything suspicious in front of you?」
「I felt something was wrong during the war conference after the first engagement with the Blast cannon ship. Do you still remember? You insist from start to finish that we should exercise caution and avoid a naval battle.」
「Yes, of course I remember, because it was foolhardy for our side to challenge those Blast cannon ships, given our equipment. Even though we won in the end, I still don’t think what I said was wrong.」
「I had to object because of my position, but your opinion is smart and valid. Not only did you pointed out the threat of the Blast cannon ships properly, you even criticized the stiff thinking of the high command that 『there is no choice but to fight』. I sincerely respect both you, and Admiral Jurgus who is willing to listen.」
「Despite how the Admiral might appear, he prefer people who point out flaws curtly over those who conform mindlessly.」
「That is admirable for an admiral, but even with that in mind, there are some parts of your explanation that is baffling. Basically, your description of the Blast cannon ships are too detailed.」
「… Which part seem suspicious? Blast cannons might not be made by the Empire, but we have gathered plenty of intel on them from the battles in the northern and eastern territories. It’s not difficult to work out the range and power from the intel, and I was just building my own theory on top of the information available to me.」
「There’s nothing wrong with you having these information, but the question is, why isn’t this information made known to the entire navy?」
Naval Commander Kanron’s shoulders shuddered, and Yatori continued explaining plainly:
「You are Admiral Jurgus’ deputy, and your position allows you to make the threat of the Blast cannons known to the entire navy. But the fact is, until the 『Tyrannosaur』 engaged a Blast cannon ship for the first time, no one in the fleet was wary of Blast cannons. This is one of the reason why the 『Tyrannosaur』 lost so terribly.」
「… It’s true that I am familiar with Blast cannons. I must say in my defence that I never thought that weapon will get equipped onto a ship. Because I think of Blast cannons as a land weapon, which is a mental blindspot.」
Yatori shook her head with an awkward smile at that retort:
「… Do you remember the first few conversation we had after boarding this ship? 『A large ship will naturally be slower, isn’t this wrong for a military vessel』─ That’s what you said. You can calmly give a practical critique against the 『Yellow Dragon』, which is the symbol of the Imperial navy. My impression of you is that your thinking is very flexible.」
「……」
「I think it is unlikely for you to not even entertain the thought of 『combining Blast cannons and ships』. If you thought of it but didn’t share this with others, that meant you have nefarious intentions towards the imperial navy─ Maybe you didn’t know, Naval Commander Kanron, but I think very highly of you.」
「How troubling, if I had known, I would have acted more stupidly.」
Naval Commander Kanron complained with a stiff smile. Yatori didn’t reply, ending the conversation.
「Erm… First Lieutenant Yatori Shino, First Lieutenant Torway, here will be fine. We will watch over him before reaching the steerage store room.」
One of the marines said hesitantly. Aside from it being inconvenient for so many people to move in the cramped passageway, the marines felt that this was the navy’s internal affairs. If the army continued to get involved, it will be an annoyance─ Yatori noticed that, and stopped.
「Alright then, I will leave the rest to you.」
The marines saluted and acknowledge her with a gaze. Yatori turned, and the marines looked ahead again to resume their duties─ it happened at this moment.
Bustling footsteps could be heard in the junction not far ahead. A moment later, a female medic carrying bundles of unwashed sheets appeared around the corner─ it was Haro.
「Huff, huff… huh? Uwah!」
The vision of Haro was obscured by the bundle of sheets she was holding as she jogged towards the marines, and she was late in noticing the group blocking the passageway. She managed to stop before colliding with the soldiers in front, but her body still leaned forward.
The sheets flew out from her arms into the air, which drew the attention of the soldiers. Even Yatori’s reflex was to focus on her comrade who was about to trip─ this moment created an opening.
Danmier Kanron was not just suspected of being a spy, there were evidence to prove that too. However, he had concealed something from everyone. His build was no means tough, had a face mocked by others to be like a servant boy, and gave the impression of being a 「brainy strategist who was proficient in debates」. Under all these things, he had one final secret even the vermillion haired girl didn’t see through.
That was his nature as a Phantom.
「─ Ughh!」
Yatori realized a silent movement through the soldiers a moment too late. That figure meandered through the gaps in the crowd, and slid under the sheets in the air to the other side.
「Nobody moves!」
When the white cloth obscuring their vision all fell to the ground, a man with a knife to Haro’s throat appeared before them.
「Huh? Huh?」
「You too, Second Lieutenant Haroma Bekker. If you cherish your life.」
The man said with his blade to Haro’s throat. Yatori pushed aside the marines and rushed to the front with her hand on the hilt of her blade, and grit her teeth:
「I was careless, you are one of the Phantoms…!」
「To be called that in such a situation is terribly embarrassing. Being forced to a corner at the place I have infiltrated and have my identity uncovered─ for someone like me who works in the dark, this is an absolute disgrace.」
The man said with self mockery. The next moment, he looked to the back of the soldiers with his sharp eyes:
「Drop the gun, young man of the Remeon house! Don’t you care about your comrade’s life!?」
「… Ughh!」
Torway who wanted to snipe the enemy from the gaps between the wall of people froze at those words. After he was forced to place the wind rifle on the floor, Naval Commander Kanron nodded and turned his gaze to everyone before him:
「Alright now, the imperial soldier Danmier Kanron will be leaving his post here. I need to go report back to my base, will you kindly help me with that?」
「… What do you want? State your terms.」
「Just something simple. Just a horse laden with enough food and water for two days. When I escape far enough from this port, I will return Second Lieutenant Bekker to you.」
「I can’t accept that. You might take Haro with you, or kill her after getting away. There is no guarantee that you will return the hostage.」
Yatori was adamant in her refusal. Naval Commander Kanron pressed his blade into Haro’s skin and his smile widened.
「I see, so compared to your comrade’s life, Igsem-san values a guarantee more?」
「I’m very sure you can’t kill Haro here. You will be subdued the instant you lose your hostage.」
「That make sense─ why don’t I cut off one ear then?」
「Try me. If you are confident you won’t lose your head the very moment you slice off her ear.」
Yatori took a stance, ready to step forward, draw her blade and strike. Her determined attitude made Naval Commander Kanron who had the initiative waver. Any sudden move, and his head would get lopped off. The member of the Phantom Unit could feel the large gulf in their prowess.
「… I can’t beat you. Alright, since it has come to this, I will give you a guarantee. Why don’t we do this instead?」
The Phantom proposed. As they faced off against each other perilously, the two sides started a dangerous negotiation.
Admiral Jurgus who noticed that something was amiss and joined in. The tense negotiation reached a conclusion about ten minutes later. Since one of the army’s knight corps member 「deposited」 with them was used as a shield, the boss of the pirate navy couldn’t act too forcefully.
Five minutes later, under the orders of Admiral Jurgus, a horse laden with food and water was prepared on land. Naval Commander Kanron and the hostage Haro alighted together, and Yatori followed a set distance behind─ the situation had evolved into this state.
「This is incredibly unsightly─ Both you and me.」
Before the three of them alighted, the boss of the pirate navy said to his former deputy with a scary glare. The Phantom who had discarded the fake persona of Danmier Kanron replied:
「I feel the same. It was just an act, but working under you wasn’t too bad.」
Ending the conversation for probably the final time with Admiral Jurgus, the Phantom alighted the ship with his hostage. Amidst the tense atmosphere, the silent trio left the port and reached a wide open path. As promised, a horse was tied to a pole there.
「Okay, Second Lieutenant Bekker, please untie the rope on the pole.」
On the instruction of the Phantom, Haro reached for the rope with her trembling fingers. Yatori observed a short distance away. The Phantom cautiously gauged his distance from her, slowly backed away from Haro and put a hand on the saddle.
「I’m ready.」
「I’m ready too. Haro, undo the ropes now.」
Phantom judged that this was sufficient space to escape the vermillion haired girl, and Yatori gauged that she could rescue Haro if anything untowards happen at this range─ Both conditions had been met, and Haro undid the ropes.
「Hyah─!」
The horse trotted off at the same moment the man flipped onto the saddles. On the other hand, Yatori charged to Haro and shield her, and watch the back of the Phantom gradually fade into the distance─ she felt regret for being played by the enemy, but her relief on the safe return of her comrade was still stronger.
「Haro, I’m glad that you are okay…!」
Yatori let go of the hilts of her blade, and hugged her comrade who returned unharmed. Haro rest her head in Yatori’s breasts and mumbled quietly:
「I’m sorry, Yatori-san…」
「What are you saying, I should be the one who should apologize. I should be more vigilant towards him.」
Her lapse in judgement resulted in her comrade meeting with danger─ that was what Yatori thought. Yatori showed deep self reproach and reflection, and Haro kept repeating herself.
「I’m sorry… I’m sorry…」
Tears appeared on the corners of her eyes─ only she knew the true meaning behind her words.
Before they could recover from the blow of this unexpected incident, the members of the knight order still set off for the Hioredo ore mines on the same day as scheduled. They formed a supply unit with the troops under their command, and prepared to leave Port Nemong.
「Hey～ My platoon is ready too…」
Matthew who didn’t look too good returned to his comrades. And so, the five members of the knight order and Princess Chamille were all present.
「Thank you for your hard work, my dear friend Matthew. It seems you have not recovered fully yet.」
「I can’t eat well… And the ground still seem to be shaking. To be frank, I really want to rest here for another three days.」
「I feel the same, but we are already behind schedule in reaching the port, so we have to set off earlier to make it in time.」
Torway patted Matthew’s listless back, and the pudgy youth lifts his head a little.
「Speaking of which, while I was writhing in bed, something outlandish happened, huh… I heard that Naval Commander Kanron is actually a traitor aiding Kioka?」
「More accurately speaking, he is a spy who infiltrated the navy in order to achieve that goal. I failed to detect that he was actually a member of the Phantom unit. I was too naive and put Haro in danger…」
「N-No, it’s not Yatori-san’s fault! It’s all because I fell down in that situation…!」
When left alone, Yatori would reflect on her actions, and Haro would start explaining in tears. As the atmosphere grew heavy, Ikuta butt in between them.
「Alright now, it’s fine since we are all safe. The spy might have gotten away, but just chasing him out of the navy is a big accomplishment. If you didn’t see through Naval Commander Kanron’s true colours, our intel will continue to leak. It won’t be an exaggeration to call Yatori the saviour of the navy.」
「Enough, what follows is the tough part. He might not be the only spy, and Admiral Jurgus will be busy screening his subordinates.」
Yatori sighed again. The Princess then cast her gaze at the pudgy youth:
「Speaking of Admiral Jurgus, he seem rather fond of Matthew. He mentioned about approaching you to join the navy.」
「P-Please spare me that. Just the thought of boarding a ship makes my stomach…」
Matthew shook his head with his hands on his chest, and the dark haired youth interjected with a nefarious smile.
「No no～ given how active a role you played this time, it is no surprise that they want to recruit you. I heard from the sailors on the 『Spearfish』 that you convinced the enemy admiral to surrender with your skilled negotiation techniques.」
「Negotiation…? Ah, no, that’s…」
I found a way because I thought about what you said in the past… Matthew wanted to say that, but kept his peace. It felt vexing to say that before Ikuta. As Matthew was troubling over this, Ikuta continued:
「Ara, I would have never imagined. Instead of pleading in tears, you took the offensive with vomiting. Your creativity deserves the highest order of respect. You should take pride for inventing the new niche of 『vomit diplomacy』, Matthew!」
「So that’s what you’re talking about! I can’t help it, the sailing before that was insane! And I didn’t vomit during the negotiation, but after it had been settled!」
Matthew refuted him fiercely despite feeling unwell. Ikuta wanted to tease him further, but shut his mouth midway and pointed to his front:
「Matthew, look behind you. Admiral Jurgus isn’t the only one who can’t bear seeing you go.」
「Huh?」
The youth turned back and found a familiar face hiding in the tree shade some distance away. She noticed that she had been seen, and after a while, she made up her mind to approach him.
「Naval Lieutenant Polminue……」
Her left arm was injured during the naval battle and was hanging in a triangular arm sling before her breasts. Her strides seemed a little unsteady, probably a symptom of anemia she had not recovered from. Pommy stopped before Matthew, and looked at him with her back straightened.
「Y-You are going?」
「Huh? Ah, yes. We landed later than expected, so we can’t rest and take it easy.」
「Is that so…」
Pommy kept quiet after that, and Matthew didn’t know how he should respond. Finally, Pommy made up her mind, took out something from her pocket and proffered it to him:
「… Take this as an amulet!」
The item in question was a portable compass with an in built sundial. It looked really old, and the metallic part was worn out, which gave it more character… but there wasn’t any rust, which made it clear that the owner took a lot of care to maintain it. 「Ah… Oh… This is…?」 「It’s the compass Captain Garciev used when in his youth… the family heirloom of my Jurgus house.」 The moment he heard that, Matthew almost dropped it. He held on the compass with a firm grip, and then looked at her in surprise: 「I-Is this the real thing…? Can I really have such a precious item!? No, I’m very grateful, but…!」 「I-I’m just lending it to you…! You must return it to me the next time we meet! Don’t forget that!」 Pommy’s tense expression made the slightly plump youth a little scared… But the youth changed his mind after seeing the sincerity in her eyes, and felt it was impolite to be too reserved. Matthew stared at the compass in his hand, pondered for a moment, and then reached into his breast pocket with his left hand. 「… It isn’t fair for me to be the only one borrowing this, so take this with you.」 The youth proffered a tiny silk pouch. After letting Pommy hold it, he continued: 「It might be lame, but inside is a bent coin. I heard that when my great grandfather was shot on the battlefield, this thing blocked the bullet and saved his life. It’s basically a lucky charm for my Tetzirich house… and can’t compare with Captain Garciev’s compass at all.」 Pommy took the charm from Matthew who was smiling awkwardly, and pressed it against her chest. 「… Thank you, I will cherish it. I will return it to you the next time we meet.」 「Yes, I will do the same too. I’m borrowing the Captain’s luck after all, and I won’t be able to face him in that world if I die that easily.」 After they both put away their exchanged keepsakes, a silence fell between them. As they were both inexperienced in all sorts of matters, it seemed that this silence would continue for a long time─ however, the courage she inherited from her great ancestor pushed Pommy to overcome her hesitation. 「Don’t you die on me, dummy!」 She took a step forward and hugged the pudgy youth with her right arm. For a short instance, her soft lips touched his cheek─ before he could even react, Pommy had already turned and ran. She was even trying to hide her blushing face. 「……」 Given the results, her decision was probably right. Because Matthew who got petrified from the shock needed several minutes before he could move again. Chapter 4: Battle of the Hioredo ore mines For most imperial citizens, the blazing summer heat was the norm. However, the heat in the eastern territories was different. Simply put, it was very humid. Compared to the hot and dry climate, the humid environment allowed the vegetation to flourish a lot more. After all sorts of conditions come together, the result was a tropical jungle. The diverse ecosystem of the forest provide a lot to mankind, but also create all sorts of problems. 「Uwah, it even stuck on to such a place, what a pain.」 Major Sazarf took off his boot and rolled up his pants as he grumbled. The stubbled he shaved off during his time in central had reverted back to normal. The thing he was staring at with a frown was a brown and soft creature sucking on his thigh. 「It’s mud and swamp wherever we go. I’m going to collapse from anemia from all the blood lost to the leeches.」 The fire sprite the Major borrowed from a subordinate was standing by his leg. When the flame licked the tail of the leech, it vomit out the blood it just suck and fell off. 「Major General Saba, don’t you think so?」 In the same tent, his superior who took care of the leeches earlier than him grunted in his seat: 「… Insignificant. Instead of anemia, we should be worried about the possibility of diseases from the leeches.」 His usual cold response put Major Sazarf at ease. Major General Kubalha Saba was appointed as the commander-in-chief for the campaign to attack the Hioredo ore mines. A buffed man with a beard on his jaw and a serious expression on his face. With his silent personality, he was the sort who could apply pressure without even speaking. Sazarf was troubled about how he should communicate with his new superior. Because no matter what topic he raised, it would get shot down with the word 「Insignificant」. Since they started the march, Sazarf didn’t recall making any normal conversations with him, aside from official reports. ─ Well, we are just a superior and a subordinate, I’m not trying to get all buddy buddy with him or anything. Sazarf thought as he peeked at him. Saba’s face was still serious without any hint of emotion. ─ But even so, I really can’t tell what he is thinking. That’s not good. For Sazarf, not being able to tell what his commander-in-chief was thinking presents a serious problem. In the northern territories and even before that, he would grasp the character, capability and tendencies of his superior, and use that as a guide to act accordingly. With a superior that was capable in everything, he just needs to follow orders. But if that wasn’t the case, he would need to find a way to guide his superior to tweak the orders. For those who were more reserved, he would encourage them to make a decision, and he would advise the rash type to change his mind. As for those who refuse to listen to others, he will disguise his advise in the form of flattery─ no matter what, he needed to understand what kind of person his superior was. ─He looked like a competent soldier, but he didn’t seemed to be someone who was eager to net achievements. In a sense, that was better than another superior I had… Sazarf still remembered clearly the military tribunal that was the end of his previous superior. Major General Saba was present too, but Sazarf didn’t recall him speaking. If he remembered correctly, Saba was silent for the entire trial, similar to now. ─It feels like he lack any motivation or drive, what should I do… As Sazarf was thinking while drying his feet, a voice saying 「reporting!」 came from the entrance of the tent. Major General Saba gave his permission quietly, and the young messenger entered the tent with a cheerful face: 「The 2nd supply unit from the sea has arrived! The Third Princess and the members of the knight order are with them!」 Sazarf’s spirit was raised greatly when he heard that report. He stuck his feet that was still moist into his boot and stood up: 「Those guys are here, huh…! Oh, I should go welcome them!」 He looked to his superior for approval, but Major General Saba was still silent. Even if it is just a farce, he should at least pretend to be happier─ Sazarf retorted in his heart and proposed to his commander: 「Major General, the Third Princess has graced us with her presence. I heard the young heroes are with her, which is a good chance to raise morale. The other high ranking officers are away on duty, should we go receive them?」 Sazarf said worriedly, and wondered what he should do if he was dismissed with another 「Insignificant」. However, the old soldier wasn’t that dense. He nodded slightly, and got up from his chair a little lethargically. 「But we don’t have any good news to share with them.」 The Major General muttered before leaving the tent. Realizing that he just said 「Insignificant」 in a different way, Sazarf could only sigh. The terrain of the Hioredo ore mines was roughly divided into four elements. The jungle around them; A mountain range that reached up to 600m high; a bowl shaped large hole dug down from the mountain; and a settlement that encircled the hole. The ore mines settlement had the shape of a donut. Similar to the former eastern territories as a whole, this Hioredo ore mines was a hotly contested spot between the Empire and Kioka. Hence, the Empire also contributed to its current terrain. Maintaining the function of the ore mines and raising its defensibility─ after both sides worked on this place with this common goal in mind, this was the final result. 「Easy to defend and hard to attack. It is dependable as a military base, but it will be troublesome if the enemy turtle themselves inside─ munch munch.」 Ikuta observed with his telescope on a ridge as he chew on a wild banana he picked along the way. 「─We are the ones attacking this time, and as expected, we are at an impasse.」 The others looking through their telescope nodded in agreement. The Imperial army had surrounded the Hioredo ore mines with a road that encircled the forest. The enemy on top of the mountain was isolated, and could only stay on the defensive and engage the Imperial army in shooting skirmishes. As the six of them were sizing up the situation, two officers came from the base situated ahead, with a large group of men in tow. One of them was a buffed, middle aged soldier, and the other was someone the knight order was very familiar with. 「Thank you for coming with reinforcements! It must have been tough to go through a naval battle before reaching here! As expected of the renown knight corp!」 Major Sazarf started with a salute and formalities. As this contrasted with his usual casual tone, Matthew and Haro opened their eyes in surprise. The other four understood the situation with a glance. He was probably trying to milk this situation to raise the morale of the troops, which was why he spoke loud enough for the entire camp to hear. When the battle reached a stalemate, the soldiers tended to get too laxed. 「Thank you for receiving us, Major General Saba, Major Sazarf. We arrived later than scheduled, so we hope to make up for that.」 「Ohh, you are really motivated, First Lieutenant Yatori Shino! Isn’t that reliable, Major General!?」 Major seeked the consensus of his superior beside him, and Major General Saba ignored him as if it was only natural. He then knelt before Princess Chamille: 「… My apologies for troubling you to visit the frontlines, Your Highness. I regret to report that we have not taken the ore mines. We might be outside their firing range, but please be careful of ricochets.」 「Oh… Yes, I understand.」 「I’m honored by your presence─ Well then, allow me to return to my duties. Major Sazarf, I will leave the rest to you.」 Major General Saba turned before waiting for an answer, and walked towards the base. Sazarf turned to the Princess who was looking at Saba leave in a daze, and tried to lighten the mood: 「T-The Major General is very busy, and despite how he looked, he is really glad to meet everyone! Anyway… let’s start the handover of the supplies!」 The Major changed the topic forcefully, so Yatori and the others left the awkward atmosphere behind them and called for their subordinates standing behind them. The soldiers felt dubious of the Major General’s cold attitude, but as they busied themselves in the handover procession, such feelings subsided. After about 30 minutes, they finished their tasks. 「Alright, thank you for your hard work! We have prepared tents in the western side of the base. You can let your troops rest there and wait for their next orders.」 「That’s great─ you heard that, Suya? Can I leave that to you?」 「Yes Sir!」 Suya left with her orders and started gathering the troops. The other deputies mimicked her and started making arrangement to make camp. The battalion assigned to Ikuta and the others moved into the camp, leaving the members of the knight order, the Princess and Sazarf behind. 「I hope you can explain the situation… regarding a lot of things.」 After the dark haired youth made this request, Major Sazarf scratched his head a little awkwardly. 「… As you can see, we have encircled the enemy, but their defences are too strong. It’s too dangerous to attack rashly, so we are thinking of harassing them and make this a battle of attrition.」 「That’s true… in this situation, forcing the enemy to deplete their resources by attacking them continuously, and pressuring them from multiple avenues to force them to surrender. That’s the most common tactic.」 Torway gave his opinion. When attacking a high defensible fort or stronghold, that would require a force several times larger than the enemy and several months of time─ or even years if their luck was bad. That was how difficult it was to attack the enemy holed up in a great defensive structure. Hence, they would normally target the enemy’s weak points. 「Since the encirclement is complete, that means the enemy’s supply route has been cut off. If we keep up the assault, their resources like food, water and ammunition will run out sooner or later, correct?」 Matthew asked optimistically, and the Major crossed his arms with a sour face: 「… Sooner or later? That is true, but the problem is, we don’t know when. The enemy base has an independent water source, and they had probably stowed quite a bit of food for such emergencies. Another problem is, their base is an ore mine settlement which has the facilities to process steel.」 「I see, so the enemy can produce their own bullets and arrows… That will be a problem. In that case, the only thing they might run out of is food.」 Yatori thought with her hand on her chin. A moment later, Ikuta beside her said: 「Be it food, water or ammunition, cutting off their supplies will grind away the enemy mentally, correct? In that case, we don’t have to stick to one method, there are many ways to harass the enemy that had holed themself up. We can throw things that can causes diseases, or taunt them with a large amount of troops, or hold a feast in front of them to flaunt how much excess resources we have…」 「A feast? That’s a good idea… I agree with you, please proceed with that plan First Lieutenant Ikuta. However, you will have to convince the commander-in-chief.」 「You mean Major General Kubalha Saba? From what I see earlier, he didn’t seem to welcome us too much.」 Princess Chamille who spoke directly with the Major General muttered, and Major Sazarf quickly lowered his head to apologize: 「My apologies if he upsetted you, Your Highness. Allow me to explain, the Major General treat everyone the same way, and he had been ignoring me after my assignment here… I had never seen him smile before.」 Sazarf explained with an awkward smile. A female officer who noticed the conversation here walked over: 「Excuse me, I happen to overhear your conversation… please allow me to apologize on the Major General’s behalf, Your Highness. I have heard the exploits of you and the members of the knight order, and am heartened by your reinforcement.」 The female officer smiled gently after saying that. She was about 30 years old, and her rank insignia on her breast was that of a Major. Sazarf who held the same rank as the lady suddenly waved his hands anxiously: 「M-Major Melza…! No, I don’t mean to demean the Major General…」 「It’s fine, Major Sazarf, I know how you feel. I can’t understand the Major General either. Since you are the hero of the northern unrest, you must be frustrated by this situation, correct?」 She expressed her understanding calmly, and Sazarf couldn’t say anything. Major Melza smiled at him, then returned her gaze on the members of the knight order: 「Pardon my late self introduction, I’m Major Minai Melza, I hope you can remember me. As you will be rostered under Major Sazarf, you won’t be reporting directly to me…」 「No, your beautiful name has already been carved deeply into my mind! By the way, Melzsan, are you still single─ uwah!」 Ikuta entered flirting mode immediately and was approaching the lady when Major Sazarf suddenly grabbed Ikuta’s head with both hands from behind. 「Hahaha, this guy is my cute subordinate, his so cute that I just can’t let him go.」 「Wait… What are you doing, Major…! My skull will crack, are you serious!? Uwahhh!」 Sazarf put the struggling Ikuta in a hold as he showed a gentleman’s smile to Major Melza. She smiled at the sight of their interaction, then sighed as if she thought about something: 「Major General used to be cheerful… But he became like this after Lieutenant General Rikan passed away.」 The familiar name made the knight corp members open their eyes wide. After a while, Yatori and Torway nodded with an enlightened attitude. 「… That’s right, Major General Saba was assigned with the defence of the eastern territories two years ago too.」 「I remember in the ending of the Two-front War, Major General Saba was the commander of the retreating unit. And in the end, he was the only general who survived…」 「That’s correct… With that experience in mind, he was appointed the commander-in-chief for the invasion of the eastern territories. As a Major General, he couldn’t refuse this assignment, but he must feel very conflicted about this. High command tasked him with the mission to retake the ore mines. In that case, why didn’t they order him to defend the territories properly in the first place…?」 At this point, Major Melza shut her mouth. She probably noticed that she might end up criticizing the royal family if she continued. The Major shook her head lightly, then turned towards the members of the knight order again: 「─ I only ask that you believe me when I say this; no matter what complicated thoughts is troubling Major General Saba, he won’t take his duties lightly… As long as he stays a soldier, he will guide us towards victory. You will understand that one day, Major Sazarf.」 After saluting everyone, Major Melza left the place. The group remained quiet with complicated feelings, and Yatori suddenly spoke: 「…Major Sazarf, if you keep doing that, your clothes will get dirty.」 「Huh?」 Sazarf who was watching Major Melza walking away cast his gaze down when he heard that. The black haired youth he was strangling in his arms was frothing at the mouth. 「… Woahh! S-Sorry! I used too much strength!」 After letting go in a panic, Ikuta collapsed and started spasming. After doing that for a while, he regained consciousness. Propping himself up from the muddy ground with both hands, he said with his lips trembling in anger: 「Not only did you left us alone in the northern territories, you treat me in such a way now…! I won’t stand for this!」 「S-Sorry, it’s my bad. So don’t be so mad.」 「Don’t think you can protect Major Melza’s chastity until day break!」 「… Huh? What are you talking about? Are you going to assault the enemy’s base by today?」 「Oh no, somebody stop them! Their eyes are serious!」 「Don’t start your own war in a place like this～!」 Matthew and Haro were frantic and wanted to stop them, but the two of them refused to back down as they stare at each other with stiff smiles. The subject in question wasn’t aware about this, but a pointless battle was about to erupt─ at this moment, something collided into Ikuta’s back, sending him flying like a piece of garbage. 「Mission complete! Major, reporting in!」 The person who kicked up a wave of mud stopped before Sazarf, and did a textbook perfect salute. She wore light armor over her uniform, had a two handed sword on her waist, and reddish brown long hair flowed down her back and ears. This gallant figure that seemed to hail from one era ago, and the swell in her chest was the only indication of her gender. 「We have sent everyone from the unit to chop two days worth of firewood from the forest! We are letting it dry under the sun, please inspect them when you are free!」 「Ahh… Thank you for your hard work… You must be tired, why don’t you rest in your tent…?」 「Hahaha! Surely you jest! I won’t feel tired from gathering firewood! Please give me your next order, Major! My knight spirit is on the verge of erupting!」 The girl clenched her fist in a show of valor. This intimidating aura and determination to live the way of a knight jarred the memories of the knight order members: 「How should I put this… this feeling...」「I have an impression of this…」「This feels familiar…」 Matthew, Haro and Torway narrowed their eyes and stared at the girl. At this moment, her partner water Sprite waved from her pouch. The answer was flashed across the trio’s mind─ and a few second later, Major Sazarf said: 「Ah～ let me introduce you… This is Warrant Officer Lucanti Hargunska, the leader of my light cavalry escort detail. Well, as you can tell from her name…」 「She is Warrant Officer Deinkun’s younger sister.」「Yes, I can tell. Long time no see, Niki.」 Princess Chamille and Yatori nodded. Warrant Officer Lucanti seemed to finally notice the knight order members, and knelt with her eyes wide open Third Princess has graced us with her presence!」 「Please, be at ease. You will dirty your clothes. Do stand up, Warrant Officer Lucanti.」 The Princess bent forward and offered her hand, and the tears flowed from the girl’s eyes. 「You are too kind to someone as insignificant as me…! I, Lucanti, am in tears from being so moved, and can’t raise my head!」 「No, even if you say that, it’s troubling if you don’t get up…」 On the repeated urging of the troubled Princess Chamille, Warrant Officer Lucanti, brushed away her tears with the back of her hand, and then got up. After saluting the Princess, she turned towards the vermillion haired swordsman. 「You must be First Lieutenant Yatori Shino Igsem! My brother mentioned that he had been in your care in the northern territories!」 「I’m the one who was in his care. In the battlefield that grows harsher with every moment,your brother held strong to his knightly ideals. His determined and pure figure had given us much salvation.」 Yatori said sincerely. When she heard this, the girl started tearing up again: 「B-Before the outbreak of the unrest, I received a letter from my brother. He mentioned that he had a duel with First Lieutenant Yatori Shino who was newly assigned to his unit, and suffered a complete lost… He also said─ that you are a person beyond his expectation, and felt the bout was an honor even though he lost. He hoped that I can meet you one day.」 「I am honored to hear that.」 「B-But I feel frustrated about my brother’s loss… I can’t accept how helpless my brother was at the loss, and was late in my reply. And while I was still being childish about it, the unrest broke out… and my brother headed onto the battlefield.」 「… I see…」 「Before the letter I sent in a panic reached him, my brother fell in battle. During my long period of mourning, I always wondered my brother’s last moments… I have heard about it from others many times, but I still hope you can tell me in person, First Lieutenant Yatori Shino. My brother… Deinkun Hargunska, did he fought bravely as a knight til the end?」 Yatori nodded without hesitation to her query: 「I swear on my blades─ Deinkun Hargunska ended his life admirably. He was a knight that loved his nation and fellow countrymen, and lived without any taint on his reputation. If anyone dare speak ill of his way of life, I won’t condoned it even if others will.」 The Imperial Knight placed her hands on the hilt of both her blades, and swore solemnly. It wasn’t clear what the deeply moved Warrant Officer Lucanti was thinking when she heard that, and she turned and ran away at full speed. 「Woaahhh!」 She returned less than a minute later with two wooden practice swords in her hands. She proffered one of them as she bow and pleaded sincerely: 「Please give me your guidance! I hope to mourn for my brother by sparring with you!」 Major Sazarf who was watching from the side cut in frantically at the sight of this development: 「H-Hey, Warrant Officer Lucanti. I understand how you feel, but there is a time and place for this…」 「I don’t mind, Major. With your permission, I would like to practice with my enthusiastic junior.」 Yatori seeked approval with her gaze. Since she made this into an official training session, Sazarf didn’t have any reason to reject her. He turned his head and checked their surroundings: 「… Never mind then. Please make it quick. If you cause any commotion and it reaches the ears of Major General Saba, I will be the one to get into trouble.」 「Understood─ Well then, let’s start right now. You may attack however you like, Warrant Officer Lucanti.」 Yatori raised her sword with her right hand and urged her opponent. Warrant Officer Lucanti saluted and took a middle guard stance, used the tip of her sword to touch the tip of Yatori’s blade, and then stepped forward suddenly with an attack: 「Pardon me!」 The opening strike was aimed at the the wrist guard. To prevent Yatori from counterattacking, the young knight continued her barrage of attack. Despite the onslaught of fast and precise strikes, the red swordsman dodged with nimble footwork and body movement. 「… That’s right, it was like this back then too…」 Princess Chamille mumbled as she watched the fight. For her, memories of the previous war seemed to be a lifetime ago─ the past was gone forever, and no matter how similar this scene was to what she saw last time, Warrant Officer Deinkun would still be dead. 「Hyaa!」 Warrant Officer Lucanti’s movement grew in intensity. Her waist and feet must have been through extraordinary training for her to perform the impressive feat of seven consecutive strikes. Yatori was impressed as she dealt with each attack, but didn’t miss the opening on the last strike─ her opponent’s center of gravity was slightly off balanced. 「─ Hmm!」 Yatori parried the strike that didn’t have the full force of her opponent’s body behind it, and her sword tip slashed at Lucanti’s wrist. With a bone numbing impact, the wooden sword fell from Warrant Officer Lucanti’s hand. With the match decided, both parties stopped moving. After a moment of silence, the challenger smiled. 「… I get it now. I’m far from being your match, and my brother couldn’t have beaten you.」 「I’m the one who is surprised. You are better than I expected, and has stronger swordsmanship than your brother… This might sound patronizing, but if you continue to improve, we will have an even better match in five years.」 The red swordsman handed the borrowed sword to her opponent hilt first and offered words of encouragement to her junior. For the pure girl knight, this direct compliment was too stimulating. Warrant Officer Lucanti was so moved that she was trembling, and bowed with a lot of force: 「I-It’s my honor! Ahhh, the way of the knight is awesome!」 After shouting something dubious, Warrant Officer Lucanti charged towards the base. The members of the knight order looked on with a daze, and Sazarf clapped his hands to draw their attention: 「Alright, that’s all for now. Just put your bags down in the camp for now. First Lieutenant Ikuta and First Lieutenant Yatori Shino, please come to headquarters after doing so, I need you to help me with something.」 「Working right after coming here? What a pain~ as if I came here to work.」 「Don’t make it sound as if that’s not the case. Both you and me─ I will escort Princess Chamille to her quarters first. Your Highness, this way please.」 Yatori offered her right hand with a smile, and the Princess wanted to take the hand on reflex. But she retracted her hand as if she had changed her mind. This action baffled the vermillion haired girl, and Princess Chamille turned as if she was avoiding Yatori’s gaze: 「… N-No need, I have other escorts too. I can go over myself if I know the place.」 After announcing that in a stiff tone, the Princess asked Sazarf for directions to her quarters, and moved quickly to camp. Her escorts rushed to catch up with her. Yatori, who had been turned down in a roundabout way, alternate her gaze between the back of the Princess who was walking away and her own extended hand. 「I want you to accompany me to negotiate with the enemy.」 After Ikuta and Yatori settled the administrative duties they had on hand, Major Sazarf got right to the point. 「As you know, in this situation, the importance of psychological warfare is as critical of direct combat. A common tactic is to push for talks, and the enemy is willing to do so. We already met with the enemy commander three times.」 「In that case, you have tried pressuring them to surrender. What’s their response?」 「Yes, about that… They shot us down completely the first time, and reacted a little during the second time. After we told them news of your naval battle victory, they were clearly shaken. They probably don’t want to prolong a losing battle, so I thought there might be a chance…」 At this point, Sazarf frowned and scratched his head. 「… Yesterday, a balloon flew in from the east and landed in the enemy base. We met for the third time right after that, but their attitude changed for some reason… and expressed with confidence that they had no plans of surrendering. They are ready to hang on until reinforcement comes to relief them, and they advise us to give up and go home. My expectation was completely overturned, so I could only return to base depressed.」 「What about the enemy troops? If they are only bluffing, the troops on the frontlines should show signs of having low morale.」 「Regrettably, they didn’t show such signs at all. In fact, their morale seemed higher than we first fought. That balloon is probably the reason why the enemy had toughened up mentally despite their disadvantageous situation.」 Ikuta and Yatori thought about their superiors observations, and Sazarf continued: 「Even though getting them to surrender is no longer possible, I still want to figure out the 『reason』 behind their change of heart. That’s what I need you to figure out. First Lieutenant Ikuta, that’s right up your ally, right?」 「Hmm… Major, are you mistaking me for a proficient conman?」 「I don’t think he’s mistaken about that─ speaking of which, are you asking me to act as an escort for the next meeting, Major?」 「Assigning you to escort duty is a major factor. We might be protected by the laws of wars, but the negotiation with the enemy is still dangerous… However, the main reason is having both of you together will be a big help. Instead of acting alone, having you two team up will yield better results. That’s what I think, so how about it?」 Sazarf said with a faint smile. The 2 First Lieutenants looked at each other, and saluted at the exact same moment. The Empire set their camp around the foot of the mountain, while the enemy’s base was at the top of the mountain. Hence, the venue for their talks was on a road between them. During their ascent up there, Ikuta kept grumbling. 「Ahh, what a drag. Hiking up a hill is so tiring, I hate it. I already climbed enough for a lifetime during my stint in the Arfatra mountain…」 「Save your strength for your feet. Compared to the Stairs of God, this is no different from a gentle slope.」 「That’s right! And showing your weakness on a mountain trail like this isn’t good! First Lieutenant Solork, please join me every morning for a thousand practice sword swings every morning to train up!」 Warrant Officer Lucanti who was accompanying Major Sazarf and leading her section of escorts cried out energetically. The dark haired youth slowed his pace with an exhausted face: 「Please don’t force that unscientific psychological view on me… It will make me tired even before we reach our destination.」 Ikuta was full of complaints, but this wasn’t a trechourous mountain, so the group reached their destination easily as they chatted. On an open flat space near the trail was a tent surrounded by red and white checkered flags, symbolizing the place for both sides to negotiate. The laws of war prohibits fighting in such a venue, or the removal of these flags without the consent of both parties. 「I’m Major Senpa Sazarf of the imperial army, here to conduct the fourth round of negotiation! Two of my subordinates will be joining me, will that be acceptable with you?」 A moment later, the enemy soldier standing guard at the tent informed that his request was accepted. Sazarf’s party nodded to each other and walked forth. Warrant Officer Lucanti and her men stayed at the entrance, while the trio entered the tent… 「─You are finally here, hum*. We have been waiting─」 The voice greeting them stopped for some reason. At the same time, Ikuta and Yatori stopped in their tracks and froze. There was a large table in the center of the wide tent. Three empty chairs were placed side by side near Sazarf’s group, and their counterpart had the same number of chairs. A white haired soldier was sitting in the chair in the middle, with the chairs beside him vacant. A buffed man and a sensible looking lady stood on either side of him. However... 「「「「「Ahh─!」」」」」 The instant their gaze met, the group shouted at the same time─ This was the second meeting between the 「Sloth」and the 「Insomniatic」. This was recorded in the history books as an important event, but it started off in a silly manner. It had been five minutes since everyone took their seats, but no one had spoken yet. The oppressive silence hung over the meeting table, and the first one to give in to the atmosphere was Major Sazarf. 「… Ah～ isn’t this interesting? The representatives for both sides are different this time…」 「… Indeed. I’m Colonel Jean Arkinex of the Kioka army. I have taken over command of the Hioredo ore mines.」 Sazarf opened his eyes wide in surprise when he learned his counterpart’s name. During the northern unrest, Ikuta and Yatori were the only ones who met him, so this was the Major’s first meeting with the famous 「General of Insomniatic Brilliance」. 「Sigh… I shouldn’t have come… You are too much, Major. This isn’t a puzzle at all.」 Sazarf was wondering how he should respond when Ikuta who was resting both elbows on the table lazily grumbled. The white haired officer shot him an accusatory gaze, then said sarcastically: 「Hah*…Major Sazarf, one of your members appears to be lacking manners. His presence isn’t appropriate for this solemn meeting, so can you just bury him somewhere?」 「Speaking of manners, how about serving some tea, white pretty boy? The thought that I hiked all the way here to see that mug of yours make me feel like crying. How are you going to compensate the sense of futility in my heart?」 The dark haired youth retorted immediately. Jean’s face kept twitching as he answered: 「Speaking with you is such a pain. It makes me wonder what kind of environment nurtured your personality that is only good for agitating others?」 「If you feel that way, that means you are already drained mentally. Why not devote your life in proving that the lack of sleep leads to anxiety and frustration?」 「Someone who talks like that definitely oversleep often. Just how crude do you have to be to stay calm as you waste the limited time you have?」 They exchanged sarcastic words like a shoot out, going back and forth without any rest. The vermillion haired girl raised a hand to stop the useless talk and mediate: 「Calm down, both of you. We are not here to squabble.」 Yatori’s calm and firm demeanour restored order to the scene─ After Ikuta and Jean shut up, someone else spoke: 「─First Lieutenant Yatori Shino Igsem, there is something I would like to ask you.」 The lady serving as Jean’s adjutant looked at Yatori with her sharp eyes behind her glasses. Yatori shift her attention towards that lady: 「… You are First Lieutenant Miara Gin, what do you wish to ask?」 「During the northern unrest, there should be a warrior named Nirva Gin challenged you to a duel. I would like to know the outcome of that fight.」 The lady asked with a tense expression. Yatori looked at the kodachi on her waist, and nodded: 「… I see, is he your family? I thought that might be possible since both of you share the same last name.」 「Nevermind that, please tell me the outcome!」 Miara slammed the table with both palms, and after seeing how concerned she was with the answer, Yatori answered directly: 「I won. He challenged an Igsem as a warrior, and fell in battle.」 「─Ughh!」 「He was a formidable foe, there won’t be many chances for me to fight someone of his caliber again. I won’t forget the exhilaration I felt during my duel with him.」 Yatori answered respectfully. Miara slowly recovered from her shock, then lowered her face with trembling shoulders─ the next moment, she kicked over her chair and stood up. 「Don’t lie!」 With a murderous glare in her black eyes, she put her right hand on the hilt of her kodachi. Yatori assumed a fighting stance at the same moment, but before either of them drew their blades, the other two Kioka members restrained their colleague. 「Hold it, Miara! Calm down!」「Don’t draw your sword so suddenly!」 Even with the two men restraining her hands, Miara’s agitated emotions continued to simmer. She want to shake them off and slash at her sworn enemy, but Jean held her back desperately and shouted into her ear: 「That’s as good as committing suicide! You know very well that your swordsmanship isn’t as good as your brother!」 His words reigned back Miara’s rampaging heart. She took slow and deep breath to calm herself, and relaxed her grip on her hilt. Her two superior officers finally forced her back to her seat. 「… I understand that this is a normal reaction, but being accused of lying still leaves a bad taste in my mouth.」 Yatori mumbled as she removed her hand from her hilt. She was no longer tense when she sat down again, and silence fell on the meeting table after the crisis was averted. At this moment, Sazarf who had not spoken much all this while coughed intentionally, as if to draw attention to his presence. 「… Well, how should I put this? It seems that both sides had chosen the wrong representatives.」 Captain Harrah looked at the seething Jean and Miara, then nodded with a troubled face: 「Yes, I agree… Why don’t we adjourn and try again next time?」 「Nay! There’s no need for that, Harrah!」 「That’s what my our boss said… I’m fine with that, but if we are to continue, let me be the one to speak. If it devolves into a squabble, we won’t make any progress; if Miara draw her blade, then they might be bloodshed.」 After hearing this sound reasoning, the white haired officer could only give his silent consent. On the other hand Sazarf was considering whether they should continue another time… But thinking about it from another perspective, this might be a good chance since he got to meet the enemy commander who seemed to have lost his cool. With that in mind, he straightened his posture again: 「Understood, then I will be the main representative and continue the discussion.」 「More accurately speaking, we are starting the discussion since we didn’t deliberate anything yet… Oh, I forgot to introduce myself. I’m Captain Taznyado Harrah of the Kioka army. I already learned your name from our predecessor, so you can skip your introduction.」 「Thank you very much. Well then, Captain Harrah, let’s get straight to the point… Do you really have no intentions on surrendering?」 「*Nyatt de nyatt!」 「Calm down, Jean. Just chip in for the questions I can’t answer… Anyway, that’s our answer. You should know without needing to ask. If we are going to surrender, we wouldn’t have come in on our balloon.」 「That might be so, but do you understand how much of a disadvantage you are in? We have seized Port Nemong and secured our supply lines, and in contrast, your forces is isolated and cut off. Continuing this fight won’t do any good for all of us.」 「We are surprised by Lady Elulufay’s defeat… But we can still manage, so you don’t need to worry.」 Captain Harrah answered with a confident smile. Sazarf frowned at his counterpart’s unfazed attitude. Sazarf think he was bluffing, but his attitude seemed to relaxed. Sazarf had to assume that his opponent was confident of victory. 「… Didn’t you guys just rushed here on your own?」 As the Major was thinking about what to say next, the dark haired youth blurt out this line. With the three Kioka members looking at him, Ikuta continued speaking with his palm propping up his head: 「I don’t know what you are planning, but this base has been surrounded by the Imperial forces. I don’t think the Kioka high command will make the dangerous decision of dumping in high ranking officers without any escorts. At least I won’t make such a risky move, since getting useful officers killed for nothing is stupid.」 「And you don’t think this is a sign of confidence? That might be true for a normal commander, but our commander is the 『General of Insomniatic Brilliance』. Saving an isolated unit surrounded by the enemy… It is only natural that high command has high expectations of him, since he can pull this off easily.」 「If that is true, then I can only offer my sympathy on how hard a life he has… But I still think the Kioka army is a bunch of optimists. So I will make a negative deduction, and decide that this situation is the result of the three of you acting on your own accord.」 The corner of Jean’s eye twitch, and the youth continued his monologue while he was perceiving that reaction: 「If I had to categorize, your high command’s tactical decision would be closer to Major Sazarf’s judgement, right? Instead of ordering the defence of the Hioredo ore mines at all cost, they probably instructed you to 『consider the option of abandoning the base』 the moment Port Nemong fell, correct? That judgement makes more sense. Even if this becomes a battle of attrition, when your reinforcement arrives, it will just turn into an all out battle for the ore mines that involves tens of thousand of soldiers from both sides─ At this moment in time, I don’t think Kioka wants to escalate the war to such a grand scale.」 Captain Harrah maintained a poker face as he listened to Ikuta. Ikuta realized that it would take a lot of effort to break his expression, and changed tack: 「… By the way, there is something bothering me. Kioka has been very passive for this war. If you have caught wind of our invasion, then the defences both at sea and on land are inadequate. I can only guess that your intel network had failed…」 This was just a diversion to change topic, but the dark haired youth was also curious about this. Given the high position of the Phantom that infiltrated the navy, it seemed strange that he didn’t relay the intel to his allies before the imperial launched their campaign. Did his limited number of pigeons fail to return to their nest, or did he lack other means of communication… This could also be the result of the imperial anti-espionage strategy working as intended, but the whole thing still felt off. 「… In any case, I will continue with my assumption that you three came on your own accord. Hence, the question will be:『will reinforcement really come』? How much support will your allies provide you, given that you did this without consulting them?」 Captain Harrah had a faint smile on his lips, as if he was mocking Ikuta’s futile probing attempts. 「Reinforcement will come, First Lieutenant Ikuta Solork, you have already given the reason. It is common sense for anyone to do so since letting 『useful officers killed for nothing is stupid』.」 「Indeed, given how that white pretty boy rose to the rank of Colonel in the short time after the northern unrest, it is obvious that Kioka think highly of him. Like you said, reinforcement will come to save him. And he is trying to emphasize that point by showing up in this meeting, right?」 Ikuta shrugged as he sounded his agreement. But the next moment, his eyes turned sharp: 「However, that’s the main issue here. If the goal isn’t to 『defend the ore mines』, then the scale of the reinforcements will be different. It’s hard to justify mobilizing an army of ten thousand just for the sake of rescuing you.」 「You are free to think whatever you want, First Lieutenant Solork. But isn’t your deduction too optimistic?」 「Right back at you. Acting on your own without regards to the tactical situation, and end up waiting for your allies who are worried to rescue you with a huge army─ that is already beyond optimism, and is just being delusional.」 After retorting sarcastically to that snide remark, Ikuta finally stopped talking. Harrah observed Jean who ready to counter, and sighed. 「… Your member shooting his mouth off is pushing my boss to the brink of an outburst. Major Sazarf, aren’t you the main representative?」 「Huh─? Ah… sorry.」 「Am I stealing the spotlight? I will leave the rest to the Major then.」 Ikuta wasn’t fixated on the task, and just dump it onto his superior. Sazarf organized the information in his mind frantically: 「…Erm～ how should I put this? Simply put, you aren’t here as part of the grand Kioka strategy, you have decided to defend the Hioredo ore mines on your own for some reasons. The reinforcement coming to get you isn’t too large… that’s what we established just now, correct?」 「That’s just the rambling of that one guy, you are free to believe him if you wish.」 「There is value in considering his theory as one possibility─ and if he is right, then it begs a question. Is there a reason for you to defend the Hioredo ore mines at the expense of going against the Kioka grand strategy?」 Major looked at the trio with his head tilted. There is no way of answering a question build on a wrong assumption─ they remained silent to stress this point. However, the dark haired youth broke this silence: 「… Their comrades who had been surrounded are calling for aid. I think that is sufficient reason… for that hero to act recklessly.」 Ikuta declared towards the white haired officer. Ikuta’s words that seemed to imply he had seen through Jean made the white haired officer got up crudely from his chair, as if he could no longer stand being admonished one sidedly and was prepared to retaliate… 「Alright, that’s the end of the meeting.」 However, Captain Harrah firm words stopped the young hero from getting out of control. Ikuta clicked his tongue. The big sized soldier who had accumulated years of experience stepped on the brakes at the right moment. 「So, what’s the conclusion? What would be an adequate estimate of the enemy’s reinforcement?」 On the way back to their base, Sazarf asked his two subordinates. The dark haired youth shook his head: 「No one can tell what the scale might be. That white pretty boy was probably trying hard to raise the numbers, and the enemy high command is probably still troubled over this. I dismissed the notion completely, but there is still a possibility that they had orders to 『defend the mines at all cost』.」 Ikuta refused to make a clear conclusion, and the vermillion haired girl beside him nodded in agreement. 「We can make negative deductions, but the only thing we can be sure of, is that the 『General of Insomniatic Brilliance』 came here for the sake of protecting the Hioredo ore mines… By the way, how certain are you that they did that on their own accord, Ikuta?」 「Well～ I think it is very possible… It will be different if they came with a company of air force troopers, but a Colonel rushing over with just a couple of adjutants is clearly abnormal. They either didn’t have the time to muster their troops, or this action wasn’t sanctioned by high command in the first place. In either case, they came here in a rush, and if the latter is true, then there are risking their lives as a mean of convincing their high command.」 「That’s the part I don’t get. Why is the 『General of Insomniatic Brilliance』 acting so recklessly? Is he adamant on defending the Hioredo ore mines, or is he just confident that he can pull it off?」 「I think it’s both, and that guy feels that he has the obligation of defending that mine. This is a common train of thought shared by people that are called heroes.」 Ikuta said condescendingly. During this short pause in their conversation, Warrant Officer Lucanti beside them muttered depressedly: 「I can’t follow this conversation at all…」 「Don’t worry, I’m not expecting you to give your opinion on this, Warrant Officer Lucanti. Just watch from the side and learn.」 「My head is getting hot…」 「It’s a fever from over exerting your brain. Take care of yourself and rest adequately.」 Sazarf dismissed the girl and continue to think. A few minutes later, Ikuta clapped his hands as if he was signalling they should start over: 「There’s no meaning in building assumptions on top of assumptions, so let’s go back to the basics. We need to find a way to deal with the enemy holing up in the ore mines.」 「Yes, that’s true. How about inviting those three to a banquet?」 「If I am in their shoes, I will definitely not attend─ jokes aside, I thought of a plan. It might not be a perfect plan, but it matches my style. Specifically─」 「We can’t let our guard down in front of that kid, he saw right through our situation.」 Inside the large pit dug in the mountain, at the very center of the Kioka base camp. Inside the headquarters that was dim because all the windows and doors were closed, Captain Harrah leaned his big body on the wall and grunted: 「He even know that we are acting on our own accord, that’s impressive. We let Jean attend the meeting in order to make the Imperials overestimate how much Kioka values the Hioredo ore mines, but it had the opposite effect─ alright then, what should we do now?」 He sighed, and a few seconds later, the white haired officer seated further inside the room said: 「… Sorry, I messed up. I was careless.」 「No, I’m the one at fault… I did something so unsightly before the enemy.」 Miara who was beside Jean bit her lips hard. Captain Harrah looked at his two young soldier reflecting on their actions, and said with a nod: 「As long as you understand. Both of you are fine soldiers, but you are still young, so it’s only natural that you will act rashly from time to time. That’s the reason I’m here to accompany you.」 The oldest of the group told them. After hearing all that, Jean clenched his fists hard: 「Ikuta Solork…! His presence at the meeting is the biggest miscalculation.」 「Yes, that’s right. Everyone has a person they are not good at dealing with, but you and him took it to another level. It has been a long time since I saw you trying to keep your cool and failing.」 The white haired officer nodded with a sour face. Miara put a hand on his shoulder gently and said: 「…Jean, don’t let the incident during the last battle bother you. You had the initiative during the northern unrest, and the advantage on the strategic level. The only thing he did was to put up some resistance at the very end.」 「*Nyatt… just that last bit of resistance stopped the Alderamin Holy army from successfully seizing the northern territories… More importantly, we lost the 『Phantom Unit』 led by your brother. That alone is a grave loss for us.」 「…… Ughh!」 「Miara, I know how you feel. For the honor of the Gin clan, giving up on avenging your brother is not an option. But that is exactly why I have to give you this order. You must never challenge Yatori Shino Igsem to a duel. No matter how much it might tarnish my name, I can’t lose you.」 In order to stress the importance of this order, Jean stared stubbornly at his adjutant who was looking down and gritting her teeth. His intention was relayed a while later, as Miara’s jaw moved up and down a little. Harrah who was watching their interaction smiled: 「You two have finally gotten back to normal─ the time for reflection is over, let’s start the discussion officially. Our enemy is a troublesome fellow, what should we do?」 「We will continue to fight a defensive battle. Since Ikuta Solork is with them, the situation will be the opposite of our previous encounter. Defending against the enemy’s assault with our small numbers─ didn’t he pulled that off when he fought against me? There’s no reason I can’t do that. No, I have to do it!」 「Hmm… I don’t think we shouldn’t be overly concerned with our foe, but you are right. Before reinforcements arrive, we have to stave the enemy off. We have to bring our allies home safely, and avoid shifting the national boundary further to the east─ More importantly, this is for the sake of Kioka’s future.」 「*Yah, I know we have diverged from the high command’s grand strategy, but if I can defend this place, we can save this base. Since that is clear to me, I have the obligation to act according to my theory. Because on that day when I lost everything, I already swore an oath to the people who will never return─ I won’t let a life I can save slip away again.」 The 「General of Insomniatic Brilliance」 said softly as if he was warning himself, then stood up and looked out the window with an intense gaze. 「There is only one thing that I’m sure will happen next. I don’t have any basis for saying this─ but that guy will definitely play a hand that I will find extremely loathsome.」