Sousetsuka

Chapter 31

Book 3




　It's the second day since Yuuki is not home. My smart terminal's ringtone prompted me to wake up despite my unwillingness.
　The caller is... Chief Nishida...

"Hello, Ixia speaking."
『Hello, Ixia-san. Can I have a bit of your time?』
"Yes... I have just woken up, myself. I am not in the midst of anything."
『Eh!? But it's past noon already!』
"Ah... it is. How can I help you?"
『I'm more worried about you, Ixia-san. What's the matter? Are you feeling unwell...』
"I'm merely lacking Yuukinium... Yuuki won't be back until the day after tomorrow, there are still two days."

　I can't believe how much I'm breaking down just because Yuuki isn't around... 
　Ah... Right, I have to return the blu-ray disc today....

『You're really close with Yuuki-kun... Are you worried about him?』
"Of course I am. My Yuukinium deficiency will not recover until Yuuki comes back even a day faster and let me hug him tight."
『Goodness... Ah, I'm calling to tell you that their Field Training was completed without any issue. They should be back a day faster than scheduled. Which is to say, he'll be there tomorrow.』

　It took my unworking mind two deep breathes before I could unravel the meaning of her word.
　Be back? Tomorrow? Yuuki?

『Please cheer up. How about cooking him something delicious to celebrate his return?』
"That's true! I cannot stay idle, I must head for the supermarket right away! Thank you very much, Chief Nishida. Until next time!"

　I hung up the call, jumped out of Yuuki's bed and made a hasty preparation to go shopping.







"Kuhaha... You've gone and done it, you younglings. Bravo, bravo. Kuku... So who's the brain?"
"Got no clue what you're on about. Ah, but we went ahead and fixed the sluice gates cause they were malfunctioning. Sorry to say we couldn't stop a little seawater spilling in cuz it opened up by itself. I bet you wanna chalk it up to faulty and sloppy maintenance. Am I right, old man Ishizaki?"
"Sasahara! Forgive us, Ishizaki-sama. Oy, what's with your tone."
"Kuku, let him be. So, you want to be my grandkid?"
"Nah, I'm good. We took care of all the monsters inside and outside the dam as requested. You've got no complain, yeah?"

　We're currently reporting to old man Ishizaki. He must have realized we did something about his trap, his stare is icy cold despite his hearty laughter. Oh, scary.

"Yeah, it's a mission well done. So what's your plan now, you still have one night. I can throw a grand feast to celebrate your triumph."

　Despite the tempting offer, Jen-sensei firmly refused him, 'We are returning now that we have accomplished our mission.'
　Well, Koune-san and Arariel didn't try to hide their grumbles to that.
　...The dinner last night was real tasty after all.

"That's quite a shame. I'll have your boat ready. A mid-sized passenger boat not a tanker this time. It runs faster."

　That's scary. You're telling me it can go even faster? Do your work, water resistance.

"Fumu... You've got quite the interesting students. Ichinose girl and the hero were not all barks no bites, I see."
"...Yes. I'm proud of them."
"Fumu. Shame, really."

　The two started another staring contest. But I put a damper on that and spoke up.

"Old man Ishizaki, let's make a deal shall we?"
"Hm, what deal, Yuuki-kun."
"There's a tuna mixed among the monsters I beat, you see. That thing looks edible, mind if I get my hand on it? My family would love it."

　I'll break this mood down. We're done with our mission, don't see the need to keep this savage mood up, both of you.
　Tuna out of nowhere!

"Ku... kukaka... of all things. Yea, go ahead. You wish for a tuna monster huh. Very well, I will have it cut up before sending it to your campus. Kukuku.... to think you would put forth this after fighting that."
"I'm aware that was out of place but I gotta do that to clear the air. I mean, old man Ishizaki, you were fine if one of us died in the worst case scenario, didn't you? That's why--"

　I bet it won't get across him. I have neither pressure or the experience to prop me up.
　Nevertheless--I put all my might with all Limiter off into this pressuring word.

"This makes it even to me. Same with Chairwoman. Face her upfront, if you wanna go at her. We ain't no pawns or tools just to be thrown away. Pay up the piper."
"--! Kuhaha... I see, that's how it is... What I thought a kid... turned out to be an Oni."
"Hm, you're overestimating me. But I'll think of it as an honor if you see me in a new light, old man. If we ever get a chance to meet again, I'd rather it was in a better place. Your vibe is kinda similar to my grandpa after all."
"Haha... I see, I see. In that case, I'll regard you my grandchild next time. Hey, Jen-sensei. I'll forward your reward and miscellaneous particulars to Akimiya at a later date. You have good students. I don't believe you can have them under complete control, but see to their growth and lead the way. Make them worth clashing with, for me."
"...Understood. We will stand by the wharf until our departure."
"Umu. Farewell, young warriors. To you as well--next generation Onifuda."

'Onifuda' has the same meaning as 'Joker'.
　I believe it's from Hanafuda? Yeah, I think so. Same with Joker, it's seen as the strongest card. Its property being--'Can turn into anything'.
　I didn't think too hard on the significance of him calling me that at this point of time.



"Sasahara... You're a student, you don't have to go too far. That should've been my duty."
"Haha, I couldn't help myself. Dunno why but that old man's got a soft spot on me. I had to put the word in."
"...Yeah. But that surprised me. Even I got a bit of cold feet when you sent that pressure next to me."
"Really? That's good to hear. About time you stop treating me like a kid, Sensei."

　I spoke with Sensei while we were all spacing out at the horizon, waiting for our boat at the wharf.
　Jen-sensei pulled me all of a sudden.

"No can do. You'll always be a kid to me when you're this small. There there, you did good, Sasahara."
"Quit it! Everybody's looking! You Ichinose-san, quit laughing and put a stop to this harassing instructor."
"Mwu, indeed. Sensei, you ought to stop. Sasahara-kun is troubled."
"Kukeke, I betcha. Getting hugged by that rugged woman ain't nothing to brag about. We gonna check that ranch out together next time, yeah?"
"Quit that! Don't bring that up in front of everybody!"

　Look, Selia-san and Kyouko-san are sending chilly gazes here! I'm innocent, I say!

"Yuuki... You gotta spar with me when you have time."
"Kai, read the room will you... Now ain't the right time for that..."
"Really? But... Yuuki, I'm gonna get even stronger. Just you wait for it."

　Our second Field Training. It wasn't without danger. But it wasn't as huge a whirlpool of intrigues and schemes like the last one.
　But, many things have been made clear to me. The resource known as mana, the power it grants and the countless countries vying for it on the surface.
　Also the unknown dark side between Earth and Grandia. I bet there's plenty of backhand dealings taking place under the table.

"...Is this class really created for our sake..."

　My mind is fully occupied with what and how to report to Chairwoman.
　...Also, tuna. I can't wait.


<TLN: Catch the latest updates and edits at Sousetsuka .com >


"Yuuki-kun. The pressure you had earlier was overwhelming. It was a side you never showed us. Were you really a high schooler?"
"Ah, Kaname-kun. Yup I was. A country boy who doesn't know left from right."

　On the boat back home. Unlike the one we rode on our departure, this one's a passenger boat complete with a deck to view the scenery. 
　Hard to believe I can barely feel the wind pressure at this speed. Some sort of magic?
　I was on the deck, gazing at the stars in the night sky when Kaname came next to me.

"I had the same thought as well. That we were probably used as pawns in a power struggle during this mission. Of course, I get that's not the whole picture. But, you were angry over that."
"...Well yeah. Then again, thinking about it, they'll probably keep sending us in similar missions if we keep risking our lives in these missions."
"Yup. All good if you've realized that. I get worried about you at times since you're so honest, Yuuki-kun. Perhaps you're... powerful enough to bring us victory regardless of whether our client stand on the side of justice or not. That's why, you've got to be careful. That's all I have to say."
"...Thanks for the warning. I probably get that too somewhere in my heart."

　Kaname. He probably has an inkling about the shady business that took place behind the scenes, beyond what mere students like us should tread into. No wait... Maybe he's dipped in this world already... Think he mentioned something about getting scouted by a company.

"Yuuki-kun, I'm going to bed, are you staying?"
"Hm no, me too. We should arrive at Floating City tomorrow morning right."
"We should yes. Let's go back in. It's cold out here."
"Oh yeah. I was born and raised in a snow country so I'm pretty resistant to cold."
"Were you, now. I was born in a snow country too but I moved to Tokyo for high school. I haven't seen piled up snow for quite some time now."
"Hee, I had no idea."

　Kaname is probably worried about me.
　Thank you, Kaname. He's right, it's not like me to fret over all that stuff.
　I closed my eyes inside the lightly shaking boat.



　As we arrived back at Floating City without a hitch, Jen-sensei gave a strict order for us to take a two day break.
　I wanted to rebut her since I needed those credits but Jen-sensei told me that we got enough credits from the Field Training to cover for those off days. 
　I see, that's what she meant by Class SS getting a special treatment.
　...Well, there's one student frantically protesting her order though.

"Sheesh, pipe down, Kai. You've taken too few classes. You can make it up in a summer course, get some rest today."
"B-but that'll eat up my free time in summer, Sensei! Please let me go, please I beg of you, I've slept a lot on the ship..."
"Mwu... Fine fine. You can attend your classes if you want. You too folks, feel free to if you want. Sheesh, and here I was giving you guys a break..."

　In reality, nobody else wanted to go to school today. Even Ichinose-san looks tired.
　Well... I'm fine personally but a lot of them got seasickness on the boat trip back.
　We took a bus to our campus where we parted ways, except for me and Kai who went to the campus grounds.
　...I've gotta go to Chairwoman's office.





　It's now seven in the morning. About time for students to start coming.
　Despite my unease of Chairwoman's presence at this hour, I made my way to her office regardless.
　But just before I could knock on the door, I heard Chairwoman arguing with someone inside.

『--Sure? To better the life on this world, on earth--』
『That will turn into a calamity far in the future. Think of the distance. We are....』
『That "man" is not making any move. Is that not proof enough for you. You have no ground to stand on, Miss Ryouka.』
『...But he will act in the future you envisioned. You... No, the people of this world take Grandia too lightly.』
『Are you not the one taking our world, no, our country's military might lightly? Fine, we will abide by your word this time. However... don't think you can keep it up forever.』
『...Yes. Please do take good care of your side as well. The day you brought his wrath down upon you... would be the day this world's map has to be remade anew.』

　I went away from the door since it sounded like something I shouldn't be hearing.
　As I was gazing at the door from a distance, a white blond haired woman came out of it.
　She's giving this super cold vibe to her. She must be the person arguing with Chairwoman.
　Once she was gone, I knocked on the office's door.

"Chairwoman. It's me, Sasahara Yuuki."
『...You may enter.』

　Her voice sounded a bit tired as I came in.

"Good morning, Yuuki-kun. It fills me with joy to see you safe."
"Yes, thank you very much... Err, are you alright?"
"...So you heard us. Yes, I am all right. A sip of coffee is all I need for a refreshment."
"Ah, then I'll come back later."
"Fufu, would you care having a drink with me. Take a seat over there."

　I got invited. Looks like... She's exhausted for real.
　After I sat down on the sofa as told, Chairwoman fetched a set of coffee making set from a cupboard. I think it's a drip one that uses paper? Seen my gramp used it before.

"Now then... I hope you don't mind a slightly different kind of coffee."
"Ah, yes. I think I can handle it."
"Fufu, this one is actually a substitute coffee. Perhaps you're familiar with Dandelion coffee and the likes?"
"Ah... My late grandfather mentioned that. He was a coffee lover."
"Oh, I had no idea. The one I'm making is made with acorn instead of dandelion, mind."
"Oh... I've tasted that once. My grandfather brewed me a cup during a meeting with his elderly friends."

　Chairwoman put on an obvious smile that I could tell even under her mask.

"That's really nice. Let's have a taste. I'm actually quite good at brewing this, see?"
"Much appreciated... I feel kinda bad having my employer do this."
"Think nothing of it. I'm the chairwoman of the school you're enrolled in before I am your employer."

　I'm pondering what to report while staring at my employer brewing me a cup of coffee.
　Is it appropriate to... express my discontent.
　No, I should speak out. I'm fine personally, I get paid for it.
　But making my classmates bear those risks... I hope she would reconsider.

"Have a sip. Would you like to add sugar?"
"Ah, can I have two cubes."
"Here you go... I'll have three."
"Don't mind if I do... Huh, it's really good...."

　There's a tinge of cocoa flavor inside my mouth. It tastes super high class.
　It's probably made with a lot of time and effort unlike the one used by my gramp.

"Phew... Now, let me hear your report."
"Yes. Deducing from the origins of materials and machinery found inside the dam in question. I can conclude that three countries are involved in its construction. I have managed to take pictures of several sections despite restriction. I have also extracted electronic data in the platform with the aid of a cooperator. The data is saved inside this memory card."

　I handed over all the intel I got during my mission. Sorry, Kyouko-san. Allow me to make use of this data.

"Additionally, I have gained the right of one of the monsters I exterminated in this mission. I believe it will be delivered to the school by tomorrow, please run a test on its head. Ah, I'm claiming the body."

　I managed to smoothly reported everything I thought up. Wonder if that was... enough to get me closer to the image of a capable agent?
　Looking at Chairwoman who had been silent all this time, she had her mouth open agape.

"...I'll be frank with you, I didn't think you would accomplish this perfectly. This data is a great help. And also... I'm amazed you succeeded claiming the right on a monster faced against that person."
"He probably took me lightly for being a kid. He relented quickly when I made a point of wanting to eat the monster because it's a tuna."
"I-is that right... I suppose we might discover something if we analyze the parasitized head. Well seeing how little resistance he offered, I suppose any machination we find on the monster would not lead back to Ishizaki House regardless."
"Agreed. That's my guess as well." 
"...Your excellence has truly surpassed my expectations. I'll give you a bonus for your outstanding work."

　Heck yeah. Guess I'll put that toward my parent home's repair.
　Also for maintaining the field and stuff.

"About that. This mission is part of the power struggle between you and old man Ishizaki, right? I managed to protect my classmates this time but that old man definitely didn't bat an eye at the prospect of one or two of them dying."
"Yes, that is indeed true. That's precisely why your presence were needed."
"...I can't argue with that. But, as their classmate, let me say this--"
"...Unfortunately, no I won't let you say it. This is the world we live in. Your classmates have made their resolves as well. And yet, you can't fully accept that, can you?"
"...We're probably gonna keep getting dragged into adult circumstances from here on out. Doesn't mean that I like it. I'm aware how naive I sound."
"...Yes, you are naive. That's just how this world is. But, if you have the will... perhaps you would like to shut all those danger factors down in advance as an agent of mine?"

　Chairwoman gave me that offer with a slightly cold tone.
　Is she trying to drag me deeper into the shadow.

"...I'll have to decline, for now. I want to stay in this school with the rest of my friends."
"...Yes. That was cruel of me. Forgive me, Yuuki-kun."

　Chairwoman muttered that with an awfully pained look.
　She's really tired.

"However, Yuuki-kun. Remember this much at least. Both you and me are standing on an awfully delicate balance. Soon... you will have to undertake a mission meant for my agents. Please make a mental note on that. I promise I will give you my full backup."
"Yes, I understand... Okay then, you can take the head of the monster tomorrow. Please deliver the rest, I want to eat it with Ixia-san."
"Yes, very well. Tomorrow... you may head to the second floor of our cafeteria. The monster will be cut up there. Or if you want, we could deliver it to your place."
"Ah, that floor is a a kitchen floor? Tell you the what, it's been bugging me."
"Ah, rather than a kitchen... it's more a studio... or well, a multipurpose kitchen I suppose. I would sometimes invite our lecturers there to dine in together."
"Huh... Here I thought it was a VIP dining room or something."
"Fufu, that would be in a different location. I'll bring you there next time."

　For real. Can't believe it actually existed.

"Phew... thanks for the treat. Err, sorry for all the weird questions. I'll be sure to do my missions right."
"Yes. You have my apologies as well. It appears I am more fatigued than I thought. Make sure you give it your all on your term-end exams."
"Will do. If you'd excuse me. Thank you for your time."

　I left Chairwoman's office. Yeah I know, these feelings... are like a kid throwing a temper tantrum.
　Chairwoman gotta have it hard. She gotta deal with people like old man Ishizaki and that woman earlier.
　Before I realized, I started thinking about how to help Chairwoman.
　Well, the best I could do is to accomplish the missions given to me and get good scores in school.



　I've already contacted Ixia-san about my sooner than expected homecoming.
　Just as I was about to put my hand on the doorknob and announced my arrival, the door got flung open and a hand grabbed me inside.

"Yuuki! Welcome home Yuuki! Let's have a return hug, Yuuki! Huug!"
"Gweh! I'm home... Lemme go... lemme go... lemme go..."
"Hnn, no. Huuug! Welcome home, I'm so glad you're not hurt."

　Ixia-san caught me. She's acting weird. Clearly weird.
　She took off my shoes, carried me to the living room and sat me down on the sofa with her.

"Haa... Thank goodness you're back. Did the mission go well? Was it not a hard mission, seeing as you returned a day sooner?"
"I-Ixia-san, let me go, it's embarrassing."
"There is no one else here, is there? What is wrong about a parent hugging her beloved child?"
"P-parent shouldn't do something their children don't like..."

　Not like I dislike it. But this is too much. This woman really... has no awareness just how young and beautiful she is... I'm already at... my limit.

"...Is that so. Very well, I shall cease the hug. Let's hold hands. Oh, you have callus on your palm. Here let me massage it."
"Ah, that feels gooood... Ha... I see, callus huh. Guess I'm not used to it yet."
"Oh? Could it be that your body has not adapted to your new fighting style, yet? Let's see, how about wearing a glove?"
"Good idea, I should buy a pair."

　She looks so happy, I don't have the heart to shoot her down.
　Seeing her massaging my palm with a huge smile on her face almost made stop resisting, "Why not let her spoil me rotten?"

"Fufu... I have cooked up a feast for today's dinner. What should we have for lunch? You have had breakfast already, haven't you?"
"I've. Let's... eat out in the downtown. There are restaurants we can have lunch at, right?"
"Yes, there are. There is this cafe I have been wanting to visit. We can have our meal at that cafe."

　Ah, okay. I'm getting the best healing session ever right now.
　All the worries weighing on my mind have been blown to bits.
　To begin with... I'm probably okay with anything as long I have Ixia-san next to me in this world. Well of course, I want to graduate along with all my classmates too.
　At the end of the day, any conflicts of interest or power struggles happening... are no skin off my back as long as they don't personally affect us. 

"...Or so I thought. But, I wanna do something about it if it's still within my power to..."
"What's the matter, Yuuki? Should I accompany you if there's something you'd like to do?"
"Ah, it's nothing. I'll go get changed."
"Fufu, don't forget to put them in the laundry basket."

　I owe Akimiya a debt. I want to repay them. That too is my truth.
　I bet I'm gonna keep making Ixia-san worried sick about me, but I'll come back to her no matter what.
　I strongly believe that.

"Yuuki, you can set your expectations high for tonight's dinner. I shall cook up a storm."
"Haha, got it. Guess I'm... gonna tend the garden field in the meantime. Let's go."

Previous Chapter 

Chapter 30

Book 3




"...Phew. I see, your legs float when you relax. This is a new discovery for someone who never swims like me."

　Yuuki won't come home until next month. That fact weighs on my mind despite my attempt to stop thinking about it.
　He won't be here tomorrow, or the day after tomorrow. The thought alone makes me feel so lonesome.
　Even dipping in a hot water tub did nothing to distract my melancholy.
　I kept thinking the worst, what would I do if Yuuki fell into the sea.

"Oh what to do... I cannot muster up the strength to go and purchase grocery or cook a meal... I suppose I could take a nap until evening..."

　I stepped out of the bath and slipped into the bed in a huff.
　--Yuuki's bed.

"Ah... Yuuki... Yuuki... Please come back home safe and sound, Yuuki."

　As I hugged the pillow and wrapped myself in Yuuki's lingering scent, I hoped for a dream with Yuuki.







　Chairwoman and old man Ishizaki are most likely locked in a conflict of interest.
　It's unthinkable for them to work together when they're like that.
　They're both likely aiming to strike at each other's vital in this mission.
　Old man Ishizaki probably intends to make us fail a mission he prepared which would be akin to Akimiya's blunder.
　The thought of him killing us in an accident crossed my mind.
　But that's far too risky a plan. The world won't see it as Akimiya's mistake alone.
　He's probably set it up so that some sort of unforeseen irregularity arises while simultaneously preparing an exit for us.
　This begs the question, why did Chairwoman send us straight into the enemy's stronghold despite old man Ishizaki's scheme. One so obvious even I could predict it.
　Well, in all likelihood, she probably wants us to face the old man's scheme up front and foil it.
　That woman definitely won't hesitate to make us cross a crumbling bridge if that helps us grow.
　That's the narration I prepared for the two.

"That's about sums it up. Take it with a grain of salt, will you?"
"...I see. It was indeed weird how he limited the number of personnel for the preliminary inspection and prioritized secrecy above all. Sasahara-kun's conjecture may not actually be off base."
"Mwu, is that how it is. Irregularity huh... If we consider that's the reason why I'm here..."
"Well either way, we still gotta do what we gotta do. Look up every nook and cranny and come up with a good plan."

　On the surface that is. Chairwoman probably entrusted her actual objective on me.
　One is to protect the students... And the other is to find out the secret old man Ishizaki is likely hiding here.
　Then why did the old man name me for this preliminary inspection.
　I don't think curiosity alone cuts it... Is he suspecting me as Chairwoman's direct pawn?
　Well, I shouldn't think too hard about it. Not like it'd change what I have to do.
　Take note of the stuff that bugs me and go home. That's all there is to it in the end.



　The still under construction dam is like a giant box built on top of the sea.
　Once we entered the dam, seawater disappeared below our feet. The path inside continues deep undersea.
　We took a gondola downstairs and reached a working area where the seafloor is originally located.

"Ooh... We're under the sea for real. I can't believe it, there's even some marine life."
"Oh, we really are. Sasahara, did you know? That shellfish is known as Helmet Mullet. They're deep sea shellfish that can now be harvested near the Gate thanks to all the development. They fetch a high price even in Grandia." 
"Hee, do they taste good?"
"...No? They're popular for their appearance. My house has some exquisite ornaments made from those shells."

　What, they're not even edible. Wait, when did I turn into Koune-san.

"Sasahara-kun, Instructor Jen. Take a look over there. It's still filled with seawater, I am guessing it's due to the seafloor's shape."
"...Ah. Don't get close you two. That's where the monster's nest is."
"Eh, you can see it from here, Sensei?"
"Yea... Giant fish... Figured they got sharks as the hosts. Urgh, those monsters are annoying as is."

　A huge column of water spurted and a great white shark, but even bigger and legged, leaped out before making a landing. It looks exactly like a shark monster that shows up in horror movies.

"Uwaa... That thing looks super terrifying."
"...Indeed, it is scary-looking. It has got quite the size as well... And there are multiple of them inside this place?"
"Sasahara, come and hug your Sensei if you're scared."
"Screw that, I'm just fine with hiding behind your back... But seriously, these monsters are gonna be a pain in the rear."
"Hm, really?"
"Agreed. Slashing attacks will not work well on that."

　Ah, that's not what I meant.
　I'm saying that because we've also been tasked to deal with the same kind of monsters lurking outside this dam.

"--You're saying. Defeating them isn't exactly an issue?"
"Mwu, I see... You've figured out how to deal with them, Sasahara-kun."
"Yup. I mean, we can just bombard them with ranged attacks, no? There's no need for me or Ichinose-san to get up close and personal, do we."
"Ah, right. Of course... I was under the illusion that we had to defeat them here and now."
"Fumu. But this place goes deep into the seafloor. Even the spot we're standing on right now will get flooded in no time if water breaches in."
"Yeah that's the question. Hence why I'm currently thinking hard about a way to lure the monsters out in the open sea into this place."

　Even if we got them here, water would fill up this box and then we'd have no way to deal with them.
　Umu... what do? What if we hauled them in with a huge net or something?
　No, there's nothing like that here. Hm... what if we killed it every time one drifted in?
　I ask the two if they have a move that can do that.

"If it's only for one monster. However, I need to wait a period of time before I can execute the move once more."
"Same goes here, one is no problem. Dunno how many there are outside though."
"You two seriously got that kinda Moves? I... don't have means for ranged attacks."

　The sluice gate for letting water in is located quite far from the footholds. I don't think I can reach it.
　But our mages can. Not sure if their attacks will work though.

"Hmm.... For now we should focus on slaying the monsters in this dam and think up a way to deal with the ones outside on the day."
"Yeah. Sorry to say but don't expect me to have an eureka moment. I'll leave everything in you students' hands. At worst, we can always lure the monsters and wait the water drains."
"I see, that's a sure fire way to go about it... But it's gonna take a while."
"Fine by me. Can't have you guys risking lives here."

　Or I could stealthily jump into the sea and kill those monsters later.
　Would be bad if old man Ishizaki saw me though.

"Welp, I'm gonna take a look around this place, we should split up. Having separate points of views might give us a better idea."
"You're right. I shall survey the outside perimeter. There might be something we could use."
"Alrighty, I'm gonna go down the seafloor. Don't worry, I won't get close to those monsters." 
"Don't go and get yourself eaten now, Sensei."
"I'll be fine. Mere sharks can't pierce my skin."

　Dragonia are too awesome. They're nothing like humans... I wanna cope a feel.
　Afterward, I looked and groped around everything that could be of use.





　It was past sunset by the time we finished our inspection and met up with the rest of our classmates.
　Right, we're out in the Pacific Ocean after all. Of course the sun goes down quicker than in Japan.
　Uu... I don't wanna walk across the ocean at night ever again.

"--That's about what we found at the dam. We were prohibited to take a picture but we have a diagram here. It's quite huge with 1/3 of the space filled with seawater."
"May I ask something?"

　Kazuki-san raised her hand during the briefing.

"My aptitude is lightning element. Perhaps we could use my lightning to strike first and stun the monsters."
"Unfortunately, that's a no go. I'd have given the OK if it was just an ordinary dam but the place is full of electrical machinery. Doing so risks opening the sluice gate and letting seawater inside. I have to ask you to refrain from using your magic, Kazuki."
"...Understood."

　Afterward, we discussed about ways to deal with the monsters lurking outside the dam since defeating the ones inside would pose no issue for us.
　We couldn't really come to a conclusion before we saw them in reality though.
　Well, at least we concluded that Kai could reliably kill one and so could Ichinose-san since she got the same Move.
　Also Koune-san's ice magic and Arariel's obsidian magic which is sturdier than ice would likely play a role.



"Phew... Even the private room is extravagant... Not to mention that tasty dinner."

　After dinner, each of us was led to a private room more high class than Business Hotel's.
　They served giant fish they caught during work hour for our dinner.
　What was that I wonder? Tuna? Bonito? Whichever, it was so good.

"...Well then, no better time than now."

　Using this rest hour, I headed for a certain place to check something out.



　I knocked on the door thrice. Will she open it I wonder?
　I waited patiently for the person inside the room to open the door.

"...My, I didn't think it was you Sasahara-kun."
"Good evening, Kazuki-san."
"Visiting a woman's room at night... You either lack common sense or you're quite a bold one Sasahara-kun, which is it?"
"Hmm... If I gotta pick, the latter? ...Err, mind letting me in."
"...Well, I can tell you don't have anything untoward in your mind. Come now."

　Alright, I got to get in Kazuki-san's room.
　She's wearing a pajama-like dress, she's about to go to bed I bet.

"I'll get straight to the point. If the spirit Kazuki-san summoned is able to investigate anything electric-related... including sneaking in a network, I hope you could lend me a hand."
"...May I ask your motive?"
"I want to reduce the risk we shoulder. I wanna find out the scheme lurking in this mission. Old man Ishizaki is plotting something up. There's no way to tell how far he's willing to go to drag Akimiya down. At worst, we might get caught in the crossfire."
"You wish for my cooperation fully knowing the strained relationship between Akimiya and my family?"
"Kazuki-san you're not the type who'd agree to such shady business or can you easily throw away human lives. You're nothing like that old man. I bet you're gonna face them straight up... no, you'll only make maneuvers as far as what an enterprise is allowed to."

　I'm sure she'll pick that path. At least, that's what I think of Kyouko-san as a person.

"I want to enlist your help, Kyouko-san. Not Kazuki family."
"...What a garden variety choice of word... Well, nobody has ever told that straight to my face, however."

　She summoned that cute light hamster on her palm as she said that.

"I am bound by a contract with Akimiya in wake of my summoning experiment. 'You are prohibited from deploying this Spirit during normal times'. However, I am currently on a mission, therefore they will have to overlook me this time. What is it you wish to find out, Sasahara-kun."
"Kazuki-san! Thank you for helping me."
"This peril extends to us all, does it not? Besides... Wasn't it me, Kyouko you sought help from, not Kazuki family? Don't you think there's something wrong with calling me Kazuki?"
"I see, thanks, Kyouko-san. Then... Please investigate all the electrical machinery in that dam through this facility network."
"Fufu, very well. You may go, Elecrea Hamko."

　After she gave the order, the electric hamster cried out 'Chi chi' and jumped inside the TV screen in this room. Whoaa! Electric mouse is too awesome!

"In a few moment, I will have a complete grasp over everything connected to electricity in this facility and the sea dam. What do you wish to know, Sasahara-kun?"
"Please find out if they can remotely operate the sluice gates to let the seawater in and out. Then make it so those sluice gates can't be operated remotely while we're in there on the mission day. That old man Ishizaki is probably aiming for that. He'll get us to fail our mission by creating an unforeseen accident."
"...Would he go that far? From what I can tell from the dam layout, it's pretty much an enclosed area. Letting seawater inside... may even lead to casualty."
"Yup. I think he's also laid out the groundwork to rescue us when the time comes. All to make Akimiya owe him a debt."
"One would... go that far in a rivalry between Zaibatsu..."

　After a little while, Hamko-chan fell down a room lamp instead of the TV.
　It's too cute. I want a pet like that too.

"...Your concern is not unfounded, every single piece of machinery can be remote controlled from the ex-head of Ishizaki's room indeed. They also have an emergency sluice gate to let seawater out as well as lifesaving equipment hidden within the dam. These too can be remote controlled."
"That settles it then, caught the guy red-handed. Can you stop all of those remote controls on the mission day?"
"It can be done, yes. This leaves us with only one problem. The monsters lurking outside."

　That huh... What do. I really don't want to get near the sea at night...

"Hey, so can Hamko search for the readings of monsters around the dam? You know, like maybe it could detect the electric pulses from living organisms like a radar."
"I have never put that idea into action. Hey, could you perhaps do that?"

　Kyouko-san looks kinda cute when she's trying to talk with the little hamster grooming itself on her palm.
　Hamko-chan raised its face and cried out confidently 'Chii!' before jumping outside, slipping through the closed window.

"Ooh... That little one's too amazing. It's cute to boot."
"Fufu, it really is. Do you fancy small critters, Sasahara-kun?"
"Yup, I do, or rather that little one's too cute. It's so small and lively."
"So small and lively.... Fufu, fufufu. It really is."
"Why are you looking at me, Kyouko-san."

　Are you saying I'm small and lively? But why, you're the one that's a bit shorter than me!
　Afterward, Hamko-chan came back with a reading of seven large creatures around the dam. I do wonder why they're staying close to the dam when they're monsters not fish. Are they worried about their monster friends locked inside the dam?

"Alrighty, I've got plenty of new intel. I should get going."
"Fufu, so that was truly all you wanted to do here?"
"...You know I'm eighteen, right? Please don't make that kinda joke."
"Fufu, I beg your pardon. Thank you, Sasahara-kun. I am no longer useless in this mission because of you."
"...Hm. That's not really why I asked for your help. It just had to be done."
"Yes, I would have guessed as much. Allow me to express my gratitude regardless."

　I wasn't really worried about her because she looked sad when her magic was banned. I really needed her help. But if that helps ease her mind, that's two birds with one stone. That's all there is to it, Kyouko-san.


<TLN: Catch the latest updates and edits at Sousetsuka .com >


"Arariel, get away!"
"Aye aye. Whoa darn, almost got me there."

　A shark monster jumped out and hit the foothold Arariel was standing on.
　He jumped out of the way right before it struck him thanks to his bodyguard, Kai's warning.
　Man... Can't believe guy can keep his cool after that. He could have been swallowed whole with the foothold if he was even a second late.

"Koune, how much mana do you have left?"
"Hmm, think around three Ice Spears left? Seeing how much the monsters have been weakened, I should save it up for later and leave the rest to Arariel-kun and Kai-kun."
"Yup, that's a good idea. Koune-san should keep a reserve for when things go south."

　On the second day of our Field Training. We went in the dam to slay the monsters.
　Originally I was planning to dedicate the whole day to brainstorm a plan but thanks to getting the intel on monster number last night, I moved the schedule forward.
　Besides, we don't need to worry about outside interference anymore thanks to Kyouko-san.
　Today I'm leading my classmates to clean up the monsters inside the dam first.

"Kyouko-san, check how many monsters are left."
"...Three monsters are in critical condition, two are still in fighting state. Four have been incapacitated."
"Got it. Kai, Ichinose-san, get down to the seafloor. I'll send those who are still combat-ready as your backup, each of you deal with one monster! Kaname, guard Arariel in Kai's place! Arariel, finish off the dying monsters! You still got mana left?"
"Plenty, I ain't a demon for show!"
"What about me, Yuuki!?"
"Selia-san, keep a close watch on Kai and Ichinose-san, and collect blood from the dead monsters when you find the timing! That'll also serve to finish them off just in case."
"Roger!"
"Koune-san, fall back and focus on recovery! Get near Jen-sensei!"
"Yes, I'm going to have a fill..."

　The plan is simple. Backliners snipe while the vanguards guard them and wear down the monsters.
　And once the monsters have been weakened enough, the two sword users finish them off. Anybody could come up with this plan.
　Though I think it's thanks to our assortment of members being pretty apt for the roles.
　Kyouko-san acting as our radar is also an immense boon.

"...Doesn't look like I need to do a thing. We're about to finish them off, any trace of sluice gate manipulation?"
"Yes, there is. There are cameras set up in some sections near the seafloors. There was an attempt to open the sluice gate the moment Ichinose-san and Yanase-san went down."
"Uhee, what a nasty piece of work, that old man's."
"However, I also detected a separate attempt to activate some manners of weaponry."

　So he could have always dealt with this whole thing himself. That old man's quite the bully.

"Oy, Yuuki, I'm done cleanin' up the dying mons."
"Oh, good work. You can go ahead and take a break. Regroup with Koune-san, Jen-sensei will keep you safe."
"I ain't need no bodyguard. Well, fine. After this and last month, turned out sniping ain't half bad."
"You might be surprisingly suited for it. How about ordering a Linker-type device for sniping?"
"I'mma keep that in mind. Later."

　All that's left is the two monsters engaged in combat with Kai and Ichinose-san.

"Mikoto, gather the monsters in one spot!"
"Understood. It's in your hands."

　Mwu, looks like Kai will finish them off himself.
　Ichinose-san lured her monster toward Kai's monster.
　Not a moment later, Kai swung down the sword he had been holding aloft.
　His sword is wrapped in light. A gigantic slash--I'm guessing an 'Otherside Move'--engulfed the two monsters altogether.

"'Heaven Judgment'... Haha, got them..."
"Yeah, that was well done Kai. Sasahara-kun, this makes all the monsters inside the dam defeated!"
"Yea, you two did great! You can help Selia-san collect monster blood in the containers now!"
"Got it! But will it go well? I, don't gel with blood..."
"What weak excuses are you spouting now, Kai. Come now, we should go and collect plenty of blood."

　There's only seven monsters left, they're all outside the dam. I had been pondering how to defeat them when the idea of them maybe having same trait as normal sharks hit me.
　Actually, I crossed the sea again and did a little experiment after my talk with Kyouko-san last night.
　It hurt a bit but my own blood managed to lure an eerie giant shadow under the moonlight, a monster, when I sprinkled some around the dam
　...Honestly, I was so terrified I could have died then and there. The sea at night is terrifying enough and there you have a giant creature added.
　I turned around and sprinted as hard as I could the moment it came into my sight.
　So yeah, a lot of blood should get them flock near the dam, then we can open the sluice gate to suck them all in and then close it.

"Sasahara-kun, we've collected plenty of blood!"
"So how are we gonna sprinkle this around?"
"Ah, can you bring that up here? Let's regroup."

　Next, I'll make my move.

"Alright, I'll run by the plan once more. First, I'll sprinkle this collected blood over the sea outside the dam while Kyouko-san keeps watch on the seven monsters' locations with her electric spirit."
"Very well."
"Once they're in the spot, Kyouko-san will open the sluice gate. Once all seven monsters are inside this dam, Arariel and Koune-san will slow down the rushing seawater. According to Kyouko-san, opening and closing this sluice gate takes time so we have to do that to reduce the amount of seawater spilling in."
"Yes, I understand. I've got my fill of potions. I can do this."
"No biggie here."
"Once the sluice gate is closed, we resume the monster hunt... but many of you are exhausted from the fight earlier. I'll be the main attacker this time while Selia-san and Kaname-san support me since you two look fairly fine. Arariel and Koune can also assist if you've still got mana left. Kai and Ichinose-san, you two guard them."
"And I shall be in charge of issuing commands for this occasion."

　This should be our best course of action. I made some of them work the least to prepare for the second round.
　I took the container full of blood and jumped on top of the dam in one go.
　I opened the lid and sprinkled the content over the sea near the sluice gate.

"It reeks... Okay this should get them coming."

　I observed the water and saw huge shadows crowding in a spot.
　I hurried my way back into the dam and told what I saw.

"Yes, I have detected them as well. All seven... monsters have gathered in place."
"Alright. Selia-san, Kaname-san and I will go down and get ready to fight them. Arariel and Koune-san, stand by on the scaffold near the sluice gate. The rest of you protect them. Jen-sensei, please find a good place to keep watch over the entire area."
"Yeah, got it. Are you gonna be okay, Sasahara? Seven of those monsters in prime condition are gonna get in here."
"Yes, I'll be fine. I don't feel the after effects from last month anymore--It's also about time I show my classmates that I'm back to my feet."
"Fufu... Kazuki-san and I have born witness to it unlike the rest of you. Kai, make sure you keep a watchful eye. It's a glimpse of one possible terminus of swordsmanship diverging ours."

　Hm, they're getting a bit too excited. Guess I'll go all out from the get go then.
　I feel bad for Kaname and Selia-san but I'm gonna seize all the glory.

"They're approaching the sluice gate. Gate opening!"
"Got it! Jen-sensei, please take a headcount of the monsters!"

　The sluice gate above of us is slowly opening up, seawater starts pouring in from the gap.
　The water keeps rushing in like it's gonna burst open.
　Something big inside the water also streams in. Several of this something keeps flowing in before eventually the seafloor overflows with water it almost reaches our footholds.

"Seventh one, in! Koune, Arariel! Kyouko!"

　As Sensei shouted, blocks of ice and black lump covered the sluice gate, slowing down the rushing water. Following that, the sluice gate is slowly shuttering while making a creaking sound.
　It's okay. This much water is like we're on a shore. It's not enough to help the monsters swim faster.

"I'll take the initiative. Mind finishing them off if I made a mistake?"
"Yup, go make a big show for us."
"Roger that. Don't work yourself too hard. I'm jumping in if things look dicey."

　I'm fine even underwater. This isn't enough to slow me down.
　I took a quickdraw stance, jumped onto a rock and turned toward the flock of monsters swarming in my direction--

"...Here I go."

　First monster. I jumped off the rock, skimmed on the water surface and drew my sword, slicing it head off as I passed by it and kept running toward the wall.
　Second monster. I kicked the wall and drew my sword. The second monster got split between its top and bottom.
　Third monster. I landed underwater and kicked the seafloor hard regardless, brute forcing the water resistance out of my way and sliced through an incoming monster from its open mouth.
　Fourth and fifth monsters. I sliced two approaching monsters altogether and landed on the underside of Arariel's foothold. 
　Sixth monster. I sprinted toward the deepest dam section where the water has gathered the most.
　The water got split apart along with a monster in there. 
　The last one--

"...It's fast!"

　I stopped sprinting. I tried to make as many quickdraw slashes as I could at the incoming monster that had its mouth open wide.
　I did it... Rapid-fire quickdraw slices. The deed made an unbelievable swoosh swoosh sound before the monster got torn apart into pieces of meat in an instant.

"Phew... Managed to reproduce the second move... Kyouko-san! Is that all monsters dead?"
"Y-yes! Well done, Sasahara-kun. No living body detected, all clear."

　I did it. Yes, my Limiter isn't as strictly set since I'm outside the campus ground but that was flawlessly executed. I managed to retrace the move inside my mind as close as I could possibly do.
　I could have done it more stylishly if only I had ways to slice dimensions or means for powerful ranged attacks, but this is good enough. More than good enough.

"We should gather the dead monsters in one spot, shouldn't we? Koune-san, could you clear up a spot in the water with your ice?"
"Ah... Yes. I'll clear a spot near the stairway.... Ha... You really went and defeated them all by yourself..."
"Ueee, you for real man. Oy Yuuki you bastard, you gotta have a match with me once we're back!"
"Okay okay! Help me grab those monsters guys!"

　This makes a mission complete with no room for complaint. We've eliminated all the monsters inside and outside the dam as requested. A bit of water spilled in but that should be within acceptable limits no?
　Now then, can't wait to see the look on that old man's face.

"...This is, Yuuki's swordsmanship... Mikoto, I'm still wet behind the ears. Can't believe there's someone like this in our generation."
"Yeah. You're right, the thought of our school being the strongest on Earth must have gotten to my head... I am glad I enrolled to this school."
"Yeah, agree..."

　What do you expect me to say to that, guys. Here I am getting restless at the prospect of hitting my ceiling soon... Man, I need ranged attacks.

"Hm, huh? This monster is a different type?"

　While I was gathering the monsters. Mixed among the mutated shark-like monsters, I found a different type of monster-fied fish.
　It's... some sort of tuna? Wonder if it's edible?
　Ah, but it's a parasite monster... Guess not....

"What's up, Sasahara."
"Jen-sensei, what happens to these parasite monsters when their hosts died?"
"Hm, these creatures turn into monsters once they've been parasitized so they become one being. These parasites don't run away from their hosts after their dead or anything like that."
"Oh, then, are these edible?"
"Haa? You wanna eat a shark? Don't, I bet they ain't tasty. These sharks eat humans, remember?"
"Nope, look at this. One of them is a tuna! Don't you think this one's edible?"
"...You probably won't die from eating that thing but hell if I know. Monsters killed in a client's site belongs to the client. But... you took down these things yourself. Go ahead and ask Ishizaki-sama for permission when we report in."
"Roger. Let's go and report this."

　Man, aren't you curious how that old man's gonna react?

Previous Chapter 

Next Chapter 

Chapter 29

Book 3




"Hmph!"

　A dashing quickdraw slash. It's one of the few video game moves I can reproduce right now.
　The slash unleashed by my weapon device boasting overwhelming strength and slicing power slayed the target monster that looked somewhat like a giant walrus.

『Measurement done. Sasahara Yuuki, that move did not succeed reaching the target's heart. Do a stab, not a slash. You may end up swinging slower, but that should ensure a kill.』
"Gotcha. Ah, but I can probably manage it if I generate Mana Blade while drawing my sword."
『Hou, you think so huh. Sasahara, you're a weapon device user I see. Almost forgot about that since I don't see you deploy Mana Blade often. Let's do a retake.』

　The sheath I ordered on Saturday arrived on Tuesday. It was delivered to my campus so I immediately put it to use in the new Practical Combat Theory Lab program meant for me and Ichinose-san.
　The color, texture and overall finish. All of those are of the highest quality even our resident katana user, Ichinose-san let out a sigh of admiration at my sheath.
　Also, today our lab is starring a special guest, Kazuki-san.
　She's here as an aspiring engineer to personally check out the finished product loaded with her company's technologies.

"Mana Blade... It's too weak as a projectile attack... But what if I do a quickdraw."

　Mana Blade. In short, it's a mean of attack by shooting mana projectiles similar to that of rifle and handgun-type devices.
　But as melee weapon devices lack the mechanism meant for ranged devices, the actual power of Mana Blade is quite low. I tried to use it before since replicating those game moves was one of my dearest wishes, but my attacks got easily erased by the 'Otherside  Moves' Kai and Ichinose-san unleashed. Man... The best time of my life since I entered this school got dashed in an instant... Guess Earth's moves aren't advanced enough compared to Grandia's Lost Art.

"Maybe it can be done if I imagine the blade extending out into the target's body...?"

　A VR monster showed up. This course is a practice for slayiing a monster with the least amount of attack, and my goal today is to slay it in one hit.
　I took a quickdraw stance. I lowered my waist and focused. Moves executed by protagonists and bosses from all sort of games flashed in my mind one after another.
　Imagine it. My... power should be able to draw out all those virtual heroes built by all the great creators.

"--Haa!"

　A moment of intersection. I drew my katana while dashing over the target monster before turning around to see it cut in half.

"I did it...! Mika-chan sensei, did you see that!?"
『Yeah, I did clearly. A momentary outburst of mana blade. Powerful instantaneous execution of Physical Boost and unparalleled swordsmanship. Everything is flawlessly executed.』
"...Getting a perfect mark feels more ominous instead."
『Kuku, but it's true that it was splendidly done. That's it for this practice, Sasahara Yuuki. Tomorrow is your class's Field Training. Close it up.』
"Got it. Phew... This marks the end of my practice against medium sized monsters. How's Ichinose-san doing?"
『She's already in the midst of giant monster training. She's not fixated on slaying in one hit, unlike you.』
"Nuu... Welp, guess I deserved it."

　But it has always been a dream of mine. This Move is only complete if it can slay its target in one slash.
　Also because it's the only Move I could reproduce right now, so I'm real fussy about it.

"...Wonder if I could unleash slashes in general locations... Dimensional slice is probably out of question... But local slashes are probably doable with wind magic."

　It's the exemplary move of the master in my mind, the blue oni-chan.
　Hm, but I sure would like to reproduce the moves of that baby-faced aniki with a scar on his face too... Mitsurugi-style!
　But for now I want to get used to quickdraw first thing first. I shouldn't spend all my time on just one move. Right, next I'm gonna train how to deal with attacks coming from all directions.

"Good work out there. So this is Practical Combat Theory Lab. I've taken a peek on Ichinose-san's combat as well. This Lab truly emphasizes on real combat unlike Battler Clubs or Swordsmanship Study. I've learned a lot."
"You might be right. We're usually thrust into a long chain of combat gauntlet with no rest in between, can't even afford to do maintenance. Gotta remember to do it once the lab meeting is over."
"Yes. It's just that, only Yoshida-san and Sasahara-kun wield Weapon Devices in this lab. I don't have a lot of samples to work on..."

　Kazuki-san greeted me when I left the VR facility. She then checked the blade and the sheath of my weapon device before handing it back to me with a satisfied look. 

"I don't see any nick or chip on both the blade and the sheath. I'm delighted to confirm the product we delivered is up to par."
"Yup, I can't thank you enough really. This will make me stronger."
"I'll be in your care during the Field Training starting tomorrow. I must take my leave, have a good day."
"Thank you, Kazuki-san."
"You have my gratitude, Kazuki Kyouko. Per your suggestion, I will introduce a course on temporary repairs of devices soon. Losing one's weapon in battlefield is indeed a concern."

　I see, maybe part of the reason Kazuki-san came here was to do business (?) with Mika-chan sensei. 
　I did a light stretch to relax my body. I plan to head back after this.
　The three members from interpersonal combat training course came as I was stretching.

"Hey, so we ran into Kazuki-san on the way. Did she drop by here?"
"Ah, good work, Selia-san. Yup, Kazuki-san was checking out my sheath. Got her stamp of approval. I'm gonna keep using it from now on."
"Hee, that sounds fun. We're gonna join this course after the Field Training, you gotta show it to us."
"Ya heard him, no blunder this this time Yuuki. VR or field I don't care, spar with me after the trip."
"That's up to Mika-chan sensei, no?"

　I see, we can have our practice together again. That means, these three have gained Mika-chan's approval. Sounds like it'll be fun.

"Good work, Sasahara-kun. I watched your fight on a monitor with Instructor Mikami... For once, I am in agreement with Arariel. I would like to have a match with you."
"For real? Hearing that word from Ichinose-san is a boost to my confidence."
"Fufu, don't be so modest now... I would love to meet your master if allowed. That swing was spectacular."
"Haha... I'm sure my master would feel honored."

　Sorry, that's a lie. He probably would brush it over even if he existed.
　But after hearing all these praises, I wonder if the moves from those games actually make sense in real life... I'm gonna train even harder and turn a lot more moves into reality.





"Yuuki, would you care to watch a movie with me after dinner?"

　At night, as I was chowing down a meat pie made by Ixia-san who had recently mastered the way of oven, she pressed on me with a blu-ray disk on her hand and a giddy look on her face.
　Oh right, she registered at a rental service when she was out at town alone this Sunday.

"Err... 'From The Darkest Depth of Water', that's a horror movie alright. And a zombie one at that."

　Is this a new form of bullying!? That's the one genre I hate!

"Fufu, I could not help myself since it has quite the reputation for being truly terrifying. How would you like to watch it with me?"
"No, I need to prepare for tomorrow and so on. I can't stay up too late tonight. I gotta be there at the campus by six o'clock and get on the bus."
"...Is that so. Let's watch it together once you're back."
"That's a rental only for three days two night. Please return it before too late, okay."

　Ixia-san made a weird pose with an expressionless look on her face. Seems like it's a huge shock to her.
　...But why?

"Really though, Yuuki, please do take extra caution out there. You must stay inside while the ship is traveling. It would be nothing short of a disaster if you went out onto the deck to watch the scenery and fell into the water."
"Haha, I got it. I'll be back before you know it, don't worry."
"...Yes. Ah, don't worry I will make your lunchbox tomorrow. It will be a pasta cuisine that tastes good even when it's cold. It's called 'Napoli-tan'."
"Oh, Napolitan."

　It sounded like she added a 'tan' suffix due to slightly off intonation. I love it since it's got plenty of bell peppers.

"I'll be in my room to pack my belongings."
"Yes. I have placed your change of clothes folded on the bed, be sure to wear them."
"Thank you. I gotta go to bed early, good night."

　It's definitely not because I'm afraid to watch the horror movie. I just need to pack some things up, yup.
　And thus, I set my alarm to ring an hour earlier than usual--or not, I forgot to do that before I fell asleep.



"Sorry, I'm skipping breakfast!"
"Yes! Forgive me, I should have gone and woken you up, take care!"
"Nope, it's my fault really! I'm off!"

　It's ten to six right now. I've only got ten minutes leeeft!
　All good, I'll make it! I may have missed the classroom briefing but all's well as long as I get on the bus!
　I ran down the hill and dashed toward the campus using the maximum Physical Boost I could use in school grounds.
　I am the wind of Scwhein right now! Oh crap, everyone's in front of the bus already!

"Jen-sense--i! I'm here---!!!"
"Uo! Where'd you spring up from!? You're late, Sasahara!"
"I'm sorry! I took it easy since my house's close by!"

　I jumped out of the hilly path and jumped again mid air, launching myself in air farther than I did during last month's mission and landed in front of the bus.
　D-don't look at me, guys! I know I'm too old to oversleep!

"Well fine... Go and put your belongings and device in the trunk space."
"Yes ma'am."
"Rare to see you oversleep Yuuki. Were you too nervous to sleep last night?"

　Kai talked to me looking sleepy himself. Dangit, I bet you dorm lifers don't ever experience being late. Everybody in our class besides Arariel and Kazuki-san stay in the dorms after all....

"I forgot to set my alarm. Ah, darn, even Arariel came in time."
"Aa? Whaddya mean 'even', huh."
"I mean you don't live in a dorm right. Can't imagine failing to get up early there."
"Ha, I crashed in a friend of mine's place at the dorm."

　That's cheating. Is he friend with a dorm lifer... Or is it... by force?

"Get on the bus you all, we're departing."
"Whoa, we gotta go, Yuuki."
"I'mma call dibs on the back seat. Gonna get more beauty sleep."

　It's six o'clock. Meeting time=Departure time, what a tight schedule we're running on.
　As I line up to get on the bus, I heard a voice from afar.

"--Ki---box--"
"Huh, did you say something? Selia-san."
"Un? No I didn't? Ah, I'm sitting on the window side, want the seat next to me?"
"I want one by the window too."
"Eeh~."
"--Yuuki-----left--"

　Mwu, I heard it for sure.
　I looked around to find the source of this faraway voice and then I saw someone gliding from the direction of my house at the hill--

"Yuuki, you left your lunchbox! Here you go, make sure you finish it, okay. I beg your pardon, Yuuki's classmates and teacher."
"Eh? Eh!? Ixia-san!? Huh!?"

Ixia-san suddenly glided down from the hill out of nowhere!? She handed me my lunchbox and immediately left in no time... How'd she do that? I'm not one to talk... but did Ixia-san just fly...?

"...Ah, right, my lunchbox..."
"Err... Who was that onee-san?"
"Ah, un. She lives with me, kind of like a foster parent..."
"H-hee... I didn't know."

　All my classmates on the bus are looking at me... Arariel especially.



"Oy, who was that super beaut, Yuuki! Spit out her contact!"
"Keep that up and I'll beat you up. Shut it, Arariel."
"Now now cool it, Yuuki... So, who was that? All elves are beautiful... but she's on another level. Isn't she on par with Norun-sama?"

　The elf-lover who's a regular to that kind of elf establishment, Arariel pressed on me hard. As I was about to seriously call him out, Kai asked me.
　But then, someone threw a life vest my way--

"Ah, I saw her back then. Yuuki-kun's guardian. She was really beautiful."
"Yep, she's my guardian. Hey, Arariel, is your mom a beauty? Introduce her to me, will you?"
"Aa!? Ya messin' with me!?
"...See? That's the normal reaction. I don't wanna hear this topic anymore, got it?"
"...Tch, yea yea I got ya."

　...I'm absolutely not gonna let this guy come close to Ixia-san if she ever visits our campus.

"Hey, Yuuki, you're living with an elf?"
"Hn, yep I am."
"...I see. That was incredible... She's your foster parent right?"
"Yup. She's probably the only relative I have."
"Oh I see. But still... you're really living with such a beautiful woman?"
"You think so too even from an elf's perspective?"

　Apparently, elves see one's natural mana's property, the purity of mana circulating in one's body, one's ear shape and hair color as standards of beauty.
　Ixia-san's brilliant blond hair nets a high point and her mana is extremely transparent.
　...Seeing Selia-san's brilliant blond hair, I guess she's quite popular among the elves herself?

"Sit down, folks. We're departing for the airport harbor... but really, Sasahara, your guardian... Rumor say she's quite the monster parent who marched into the campus... it all makes sense to me now. That was an incredibly well done Physical Boost."
"Uh no... Apparently she went out of control when she saw the news of me dying. She's not actually a monster parent..."
"Well, I'd probably snap that badly too if I had a child like you Sasahara. Who's she? An ex service woman? Sure would love to spar with her."
"Why are you trying to fight your student's guardian. Actually, why're sitting next to me."
"Nevermind that. Here, gimme that lunchbox. I'm gonna put it in the cooler."
"Ah, thank you."

　Fuumu. Even an active duty combatant recognizes Ixia-san's strength.
　Wonder if there's really a lot more powerful individuals in the age of myth compared to modern day?

"It takes 30 minutes to get to the harbor and eight hours on ship. You have free time while on board, but make sure you act properly. You hear me?"

　We all said yes to Jen-sensei's warning. This feels like a field trip but we're on a legit mission. Naturally we're all bracing ourselves.

<TLN: Catch the latest updates and edits at Sousetsuka .com >

　It's my first time on board a ship.
　I was afraid I would get seasick from the shaking but since we were riding a giant tanker, I barely feel any shaking.
　Actually, isn't this thing going too fast? Aren't ships max speed supposed to be around 80 KM/H?

"Just like Shinkansen, transportation in this world are on a whole other level of advanced..."

　The ship is moving so smoothly it's as if it's sliding on the water surface.
　I'm told it's carrying building materials for the Mana Platform so the size of this ship is considered on the bigger side even by this world's standard.
　Naturally it doesn't have specially built guest rooms or a deck to enjoy the view on. I opted to stay in a vacant warehouse repurposed as our break room to have my late breakfast with Ixia-san's lunchbox.

"...That lady made that for ya huh."
"Arariel... You're still here."
"Don't gimme that look. Keh, count yer' luck. Stuff looks way good darnit."
"Kekeke, isn't it? I ain't sharing okay, I haven't had breakfast yet."

　Arariel is here for some reason. I thought for sure he went and toured the ship with the rest of my classmates.

"Heh, I ain't gonna snatch a brat's food his guardian cooked."
"Oh, that's a good mindset... Sorry about that. I shouldn't have used that analogy."
"Hahn? Ain't like yer serious. Or what, you know my mother or something."

　Arariel put on a dangerous air in that instant... Uh no, never ever seen her.

"Nope. But your reaction tells me you've got your circumstance. I'm not gonna pry."
"...Same here. No pryin' from me either."
"She's my super strong super beautiful foster mother who took me in when I had no relatives left."
"The hell yer' just spillin' 'em all out for!"
"I mean I've got nothing to hide, do I?"

　I went ahead and cleared the heavy air.

"Wait, yer' serious 'bout having no relatives?"
"Yup I am. My dad died in an accident when I was little. My grandpa and grandma left me just as I entered high school. Don't got a mom. Grandma told me she dumped me right after giving birth for some rich guy."
"Ueee, that's some pretty heavy stuff. Ya see folks like that all over Grandia continents, you tellin' me they're common in Japan too?"
"I think so yeah. The population here is much smaller compared to Grandia though. Heard you got twice the people on Earth over there."

　From what I learned, Grandia consists of six continents in total but some of the continents are double the size of Australia. The whole landmass is packed with people too. I can't even imagine that.

"Ah, ya bet. But we ain't got any place so jam packed with peeps in a tight spot like Tokyo, y'see? Real interesting stuff y'all got here."
"Ah... You might be right. Not like I've been there."
"Wha? You kiddin' me? Why didn't ya, go visit Shinjuku, Kabukicho. Hear me out, you better go to 'Erofu Forest Honeytrap' on District Two."
"Oy, quit that you dumbarse. No elven onee-chan will win me over."

　Darn it, I'm never gonna forget that establishment's name now. The heck you're setting my expectations for!

"Phew, I'm full. I'm gonna take a look around, what about you Arariel?"
"I'mma pass. Gonna crash out."
"Sure."

　Well, the two of us are actually hitting it off just fine.
　Even Ichinose-san would keep him company during practices or remonstrate him, showing that she cares. This guy surprisingly fits in our campus.
　There really was nothing of note in the ship so I went and practiced swung with my Weapon Device outside before Koune-san who saw my lunchbox came by and begged me to share it with her. Some random events aside, we arrived at the Mana Platform without a hitch.



"Whoaa... It's like a gigantic factory on top of the sea..."
"Y-yep... Yuuki, look over there. You can see it shining way there. That's the Gate."

　On our way to the residential area of Mana Platform, we spotted the truly massive gate far out in the distance over the window.
　That's the Gate... I was sure it was only big enough to let an airplane pass through, but nope... who could've imagined it was that gargantuan.

"I have never witnessed The Gate from outside either. I usually see it through the airplane window..."
"Same here, Mikoto-chan. I've never seen the gate from Grandia side myself... It's so huge."
"Huh? Is that pipe going inside the Gate, or am I just imagining thing? Sure Grandia is okay having that kind of pipe passing through?"
"I ain't see a problem here? That huge gaping hole is helpless against that thick burly stick smashing it. Kuku."

　Arariel, out. Koune Chop, Selia Punch, Ichinose Kick.

"A-Arariel... You shouldn't say something so vulgar in front of the ladies."
"Same goes for you Kai, don't point it out. Guilty as charged."

　Kai, out.

"But... That pipe isn't sucking leaked mana or anything. It's draining mana directly from the source. Is that really allowed."
"...Yeah. That thing is straight out harvesting Grandia's resource."
"Well, I'm guessing our worlds have made a deal over it. Nobody besides the higher ups on Earth is the wiser. I bet there were some backhand dealings involved."
"...You're surprisingly sharp, Koune-san."
"Fufu, I'm no mere glutton, don't you know? For your information, my family is one of the oldest in Grandia. We're privy to that kind of intel."

　I see. Maybe Ixia-san knows Shezard House then.

"Ah... I'm sure you guys understand without me telling, but you must not disclose anything you saw here. I believe you've signed the agreement already when you enrolled to our school."
"Yes. We are here in our capacity as students of Akimiya. We won't leak anything."

　Sorry, that's a first for me. What agreement? It's probably included in my contract as a bodyguard though.
　...I know it's late hour and all but there's nothing that'd put me in hot water in the contract is there?

"Alright, gather up guys. We will now hear the detail of this mission from our client. Save any question until they're done talking."

　At the farthest end of the residential area. Jen-sensei stopped in front of a huge door and gave us a warning.
　We all got it. We silently waited as Sensei knocked on the door.

"Scwheinritter, Class SS Instructor. Jen Faril."

　Jen-sensei's voice sounded quite dignified unlike her usual tone, I even ended up thinking, 'Huh... isn't she way cool.'

『Come on in.』

　A gentle voice of the elderly. Following Sensei into the room, the one greeting us behind the door was an old man whose face was of full of wrinkles yet carried an air of overwhelming pressure to him.

"I bid you welcome, Scwheinritter ladies and gentlemen."
"!"

　I reflexively gulped and tensed up when this old man looked over us for some reason.
　...I wonder if it's because I lived my life with my grandparents. There's something off about this old man compared to the elderly I know... I could feel awe and some sort of negative feelings from him.
　What... was that sensation. Just nervousness...?

"Hahaha... I expect no less from chicks chosen by Akimiya girl. They're nothing like your average soldier."
"'Ishizaki'-sama. Please refrain from calling Chairwoman 'girl'. Even if you're our client this time."
"Whoa now, did I offend you. Huhu, I see. She's got her pawns sorted out."
"...We are in front of my students. Please drop it while you're ahead."

　I could tell a tinge of cold aura emanating from Jen-sensei.
　Maybe this old man... is some sort of arch rival to Akimiya.

"Hahaha, a sound advice. Picking a fight with a Dragonia is very much akin to inuring a dragon's wrath. I suppose we can discuss your mission now, can't we? Come now, take a seat. We have plenty."

　I took this Ishizaki old man's words despite his lackadaisical and jeering expression and sat down.
　...Wait, nobody else is sitting. Eh, can't we?

"Oy, Sasahara!"
"Ah, my bad! I'd been living with grandpa and grandman forever. My body's been conditioned to listen to the elderly like this person."
"Ku, kuhaha! Let him be. All of you too, go on and take a seat. Kukuku... I see you lived with your grandparents. Huhu, if only I had a grandchild like you... yes, a grandchild with outstanding achievements under his belt."

　He turned a piercing gaze my way once again.
　The way he phrased it... he knows about the incident last month. I mean, yeah no wonder.

"Good grief... My apologies, Ishizaki-sama."
"I don't mind. Now let me brief you on the detail."

　...Well in reality, I just wanted to see his reaction to my excuse. I'm curious. Just what kind of man is he.
　Ishizaki-san gave us a lowdown on the monsters that caused the mysterious incidents in the last few years.
　They're apparently parasite-type monsters that latched on big fish and gradually transformed those fish. They've wrecked havoc on the ecosystem and even started going after passing ships.
　The dam under construction has encroached on a nest of those monsters resulting in a suspension of work. In other word, all we need to do is eliminate this nest.
　But--

"I'm hoping you could eliminate the rest of the lurking monsters if possible. Merely dealing with monsters swimming on the surface is possible with my private forces. I don't need to call the army. Akimiya girl accepted this mission fully aware of that fact. I ask you students to construct a plan to lure out those monsters and put it into practice."
"...Roger that, Ishizaki-sama. Would you give us the permission to survey the site in question?"

　Jen-sensei's voice has a threatening tone to it. She's... quite a straitlaced woman. I don't think she's the right woman to deal with this scheming cunning old man.

"Oh, go right ahead. It's still a restricted area however. I don't want too many of you to come and go before the mission. I trust you don't mind if I limit the personnel?"
"...Very well."
"Oh, then you don't mind me naming them as well, do you?"

　I bet he's got those names ready from the start anyway. Doesn't look like Jen-sensei is gonna oppose the old man either.

"Instructor Jen, and, let's see... Sasahara Yuuki, I will bear witness to our hero in action. Daughter of Ichinose, I choose you. These three are the limit."
"Sir, yes sir."
"Got it."
"Understood. The rest of you are to stand by at your designated room."
""Yes, ma'am.""





　We need to pass an unfinished corridor on foot to reach the affected sea dam.
　As we're walking on a makeshift path made of bare steel frames and wire meshes above the 700m deep sea, the feeling the three of us have right now is neither fright or thrill, but suspicion.

"That geezer... was so obviously trying to get a rise out of me. Why did Ryouka-san accept a mission from that man and even made it a Field Training..."
"Instructor Jen, we don't know who could be listening, please exercise caution."
"It's fine. There ain't no bugs."
"Fumu... Ichinose-san, do you personally know that old man Ishizaki?"

　I get why he picked me. But it sounded like he knew Ichinose-san as well.

"I only know him by name. He is the previous head of 'Ishizaki Zaibatsu' and the superintendent of this facility, in charge of  overseeing the streams of passing mana. His influence is said to surpass even Akimiya in energy sector."
"Hee, then that old man must have investigated our class already. He probably picked you because Ichinose-san's family got a lot of influence."
"That's a sound conjecture. Sasahara-kun, have you inferred anything from what we know thus far?"

　I don't know how to answer that. At best I could come up with a wild delusion like **rom brain... I don't mind dropping that delusion if she's okay with it though.

"Don't ask Sasahara a difficult topic like that, Ichinose."
"Jen-sensei, you're seriously treating me like a kid, aren't you? We're all the same age here."
"I mean, I get it. But I just don't want you to try so hard..."
"...I'm gonna make you weep hard in my chest on graduation day, just wait you wait. Psyche."
"You dummy, that's not happening. Like you'd get taller than me."
"But you're not denying the weeping part."
"You two... please drop it. Instructor Jen, don't underestimate Sasahara-kun's acumen. On our last Field Training, he was the one who noticed the terrorist's goal and the first to realize their attempt to kidnap Norun-sama."

　S-stop it... You're gonna make me blush! I'm the type that grows on praises but too much and my nose would grow too.

"That's exactly why. People on higher ups, like our clients are sensitive... to those who know too much. I'm concerned about Yuuki. I'm sure you understand what I mean, Ichinose."
"...Yes. But isn't now the right moment seeing as nobody else is listening?"
"...You have a point. Okay Sasahara, give us the gist of things on your guess."

　Thus I talked about the reason Chairwoman gave us this mission.
　And what is that old man's goal.
　My delusional brain tempered by all the games, anime and manga I consumed pieced up together my wild imagination.

Previous Chapter 

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Chapter 28

Book 3




"Four day long... truly?"
"Well, we're gonna spend most of the first and fourth days on transportation though."
"Does that mean this mission takes you to a faraway place?"
"Yep. It's a facility out in the open sea that gathers mana leaking from the gate and supply it to distant countries--"
"Open sea!?"

　At night, I talked to Ixia-san about my day at the campus until the moment I mentioned where I'd be going for the next mission to which she yelled out loud.

"Y-you cannot go! Being left out above the sea... You'd be isolated, with no means to call for help, I will not stand Yuuki going to such a dangerous place...!"
"You're overthinking it, Ixia-san. I mean, it's right next to the Gate and all. In a way, it's the most secure place in the whole world, you know? I bet they've got all kinds of incredible machinery we could only dream of and a proper fail-safe if things go wrong."

　Probably. Come to think of it Ixia-san... mentioned how she isn't too keen of seas... she had a narrow escape from death...

"I-is that right...? However... please never ever let up. Listen to me, if by any chance you fell into the sea, you must not panic, release any heavy item you have on you and relax your body..."

　Wonder if I'm a bad boy for thinking how cute Ixia-san is when she gets unusually flustered like this.

"Yes, I'll be careful. Now let's work on this meal. Would be a shame if it turned cold."
"Oh that's right. What do you think? This so called tempura is similar to Karaage I have had experience making of."
"It's really good. Crunchy yet not oily."
"Fufu, I'm glad to hear that. I made these using a tempura coat BB Channel recommended. Om... This herb is such a delight... It has this peculiar flavor to it I like."

　I watch her as she delightfully bites the tempura. Umu, a sight for sore eyes indeed.





　The following day, no schoolgirl would approach me despite the lingering weird mood in the air. Kazuki-san is a miracle worker.
　Though if even one of them made a serious attempt to take me, they'll definitely get to clash with Akimiya somewhere along the way regardless. So there's no chance of them ever succeeding in the first place.
　I spent the week busying myself with getting credits and it was the end of the week before I knew it.
Today's lunchbox is leftover tempura from yesterday mixed with egg.
　This might actually taste better than the tempura itself.
Proof being Koune-san's unusually good mood. Actually, could you quit snatching those off me, I don't got a lot myself.



　Saturday. I'll be visiting the USH store with Kazuki-san today.
I went to the campus's front gate where we agreed to meet up.
　I invited Ixia-san but she's having a meetup with her mom friends she's been getting along with lately in the downtown.
　Umuumu, looks like she's adapting well to this life, she's even formed a small community of her own.
　That was when. A luxury black car arrived at the front gate.
　Thank goodness it's not a limousine. That thing really catches all the eyes.
　The luxury car stopped in front of me. I bet it's here to pick me up... but something unexpected happened here.

"Kept you waiting. Did I take too long?"
"Eh! H, huh? Kazuki-san, you've got a driver's license."

　Yep. Kazuki-san came out of the driver's seat in person.
　I don't see another driver inside. She really drove the car herself.

"Yes. I had it since high school. Rest assured, I have a fair share of experience driving a car under my belt. Would you mind sitting in the rear seat? I have my baggage on the front seat."
"Ooh... I've never been in a car driven by someone my age. I'll be in your care today."
"Fufu, really now. I'll be sure to drive safely."

　Some people get nervous when they ride a car. All the more when the driver is your classmate... Oh crap, I'm getting conscious about it.

"Fufu, feel free to relax Sasahara-kun. Take it easy."
"Uh... I can't help it."
"Can't you now? Ah, now that I think about, this would be the first time I have a passenger my age as well. I suppose that is something to be tense of... Or is it?"

　Afterward, Kazuki-san didn't look particularly fussed at all as she drove the car on the floating city. She's my age yet she looks so cool somehow behind the wheel.



　Kazuki-san drove the car to a parking area in front of a multi-story building right in front of the shopping area.
　We'll be walking to a USH store nearby from here.

"Speaking of which, do you live around these parts, Kazuki-san?"
"Yes. I rented a residential area in an office building. From what I've been told, a company director and his family originally lived in that place."

　...That's probably a property Chief Nishida offered me way back.
　I see, Kazuki-san ended up living there huh.
　We talked about Kazuki-san's life here and my house's location on our way to the store. I noticed people glancing at Kazuki-san along the way.
　...She's a beauty after all. Actually, the girls in our class are all pretty...
　Selia-san is a lively sporty beauty, Ichinose-san's a gallant beauty who's probably popular with everybody regardless of gender, Koune-san is... pretty as long as she keeps her mouth shut. Kazuki-san is the very picture of 'Japanese Young Lady.' Long black hair banzai.

"...We're drawing attention. Let's hurry it up."
"Ah, you noticed? Kazuki-san is an eye-catcher after all."
"Eh? What are you talking about? They're looking at you, you know."
"Eh!?"
"Have you not... left the campus area lately? You're still a hot topic among the masses. Mass media dare not to approach our campus, but your name and picture have been spread far and wide, this situation is inevitable."
"...I haven't set foot outside the campus after leaving the hospital."
"...I see. Let's make haste."



　The USH store is a giant shopping center that occupies an entire multi-story building.
　Each floors have stores that deal with different types of devices complete with workshops for fine tuning and even an indoor training facility. You'll never run out of things to do even if you spend a whole day here.
　...I'm also seeing a lot of young people who are probably students from our school here.

"Well, those who wish to practice on holidays would flock to this place. Many students being device users is also a factor."
"Ah, right. You can summon some sort of powers dwelling in your body instead of weapons too."
"Yes. Is that not the case with you?"
"Eh, me? Not me, what I summoned was... a being unrelated to combat."

　I got myself a family. I can't say that out loud but looking back... that's really nice. That's right, I got myself a family. I'm no longer alone. I have a family now.

"...You look so happy. I'm sure you acquired something irreplaceable."
"Yup, that's right. How about you, Kazuki-san?"
"Fufu, I too summoned a rather curious being. You could say it's a type of electric spirit. Although the detail is unknown, it's apparently a familiar of the ruler of lightning."

　She produced a light ball on her palm that formed into the shape of a small mouse, a hamster... An electric mouse? That's Pika--Cough cough.

"Uwaa, it's so cute... It really looks like a real animal..."
"Fufu, you're exactly right. It is indeed cute appearance-wise. This little one has enabled me to command higher power over everything related to electricity. It's the best possible partner an aspiring engineer could ask for."
"Hee! Oh, it's looking at me! Hehe, what a cutie pie."

　...Hamster, so cute. Electric hamster... So nice....

"Come let's head for Floor 4. That's the area focused on bladed devices."
"Got it, let's. Later then, Hamchu."
"...Can you not attach a name without permission? This little one has a proper name just so you know, it's Elecrea Hamko."
"O-oh, okay..."

　That's a rather uh, unconventional name sounding both kinda cool and kinda cute.



　At the Bladed Device Corner, Kazuki-san went straight to the service counter.

"Good day. Can I talk to the manager, I believe I have left a message yesterday."
"Oh if it isn't Lady Kyouko! Welcome to our establishment!"
"Keep it down. We can't have you disturb our customers."
"Ma'am, my apologies. Please wait as I bring you our engineer."

　Oh... Forget 'to an extent', we're pretty much treated as VIPs.
　I feel kinda bad about it.

"Sasahara-kun. Could you leave your device on this desk?"
"Ah, gotcha."

　I put the weapon device case I brought with me on the desk.
　It made a creaking sound as I did. Will it be OK.

"...I am aware how heavy it is considering the material used, but I'm amazed you can casually lift that off. Will you be okay with a lighter sheath? Won't it hinder you in combat if you're already used to that weight?"
"Ah, I leave this case behind when I fight. I just put it somewhere handy."
"Oh my... Do you mean to say it lacks any form of protection? That's such a waste of a wonderful device... We must make you a sheath post-haste."

　The called expert engineer came after a bit.
　The length of a katana blade is standarized so even USH-made sheaths can be made to fit Akimiya-made devices.

"I have never worked on something this incredible. I see, general-made sheath would not last from the wear and tear. Sasahara-sama, will you allow us to keep your device for a time? We would like to test which sheath works best for this blade."
"I got it. How long will it take?"
"Let's see, today we will test the sheath, choose the right material that can bear the load, and process it before molding the shape, etching the Property Shift formula and finishing with a touch up, so..."

　Oh man, looks like it won't make it in time for the Field Training. Or so I thought--

"Finish it in three days. You only need the weapon device to measure the length, return it to him once you're done. Two hours should be plenty of time."
"Eh, that's way quick! You sure they can get it done that fast?"
"Fufu, the Formula Seal Art is our company's original after all. I can confidently assert we boast speed and accuracy head and shoulder above our competitors. Well, it may not compare to specialized Grandia mages' work, but merely etching a Property Shift formula on a sheath is nothing difficult."
"Hohou... Hmm, guess we'll have plenty of free time then..."
"How would you like killing time at the Practice Facility on Floor 7. You could borrow a katana type device and trial a slim sheath with it. It could serve as a test run."

　Oh, that's a good idea. I handed over my device and followed Kazuki-san to the Training Facility.



<TLN: Catch the latest updates and edits at Sousetsuka .com >



"Fufu, it's a job well done. I have not baked these in quite a while... Yes, it will do."

　Alone in their home, Ixia looked satisfied at the 'muffins' she baked.
　It's the sole pastry she could make originally. She would bake and serve them for tea times with her children in her past life. To her this pastry represents a memory she holds dear.
　She's planning to bring them to a tea party held in one of her mom friends' house she often chatted with at the downtown supermarket.

"I should set some aside for Yuuki. I wonder if he would find these muffins tasty."

　Her head is always full of nothing but her adopted son.
　Initially, she was driven by a strong sense of duty to lead and stay by his side until he reaches adulthood.
　But she herself gradually begins to be dependent of Yuuki as time goes on.
　Her own son. Precious son. Darling son. Beloved son.
　Her love only grew even deeper after Yuuki's near death experience.
　She would even use treatment as an excuse to sleep in the same bed, too strong a stimulation for a young man.
Just the other day. She eventually went back to her own bed since she had finished treating Yuuki. She felt a tinge of regret over that.

"...All right, I should be off. The place should be... Okay I will be fine, I have passed through it before."



"This is the location."

　Ixia went to Itou-san's house whom she got along well with after Itou-san taught her how to get past a self-checkout.
　Itou-san also taught Ixia a lot on stuff like time-limited sales, daily discounts and which grocery to purchase. She was a lifesaver to her.
　Itou-san's family consists of a small kid and another kid that has gone independent. 
Itou-san being a veteran parent in a way is another reason for Ixia's trust on her.

"My, Ixia-san! How was it? You didn't get lost, did you?"
"Yes. I hope I did not keep you waiting."
"Oh not at all, welcome. Everybody's here already."

Itou-san had planned to introduce her classmate that are also moms of kids to expand Ixia's social clique.

"My apologies for my late arrival. It's my pleasure to meet you. I am Sasahara Ixia."
"My... Oh no, now I'm getting nervous. Nice to meet you, I'm--"

　After a round of introduction, the moms began to engage in pleasantries while enjoying Ixia-made muffins. Their topic naturally veered to the newcomer, Ixia.

"How old is your son, Ixia-san?"
"Err, he is 18 this year."

　The same thought crossed all the moms' mind in that moment, 'Huh? He's surprisingly old?' but they immediately convinced themselves, 'Oh right, 18 to elves is around 5 or 6 to earthlings.'
　Yep, Ixia never mentioned that her son is adopted.
　No, she never even considered it was worth mentioning.

"Ah, he just got enrolled this year then? My son is a first year as well."
"Yep yep. Our kids are all around the same age."
"My, I had no idea. Yes, my kid was also enrolled this year. It was the first time having my kid enter a school, I faced some difficulties cooking his lunchboxes and understanding his schoolwork."

　Ixia also thought incorrectly that these moms' kids are students of Scwhein School like Yuuki. Kids aged 6 and kids aged 18 are both first grade after all.
　They kept discussing their parenting life despite the crossed wires.

"Mama! I wanna go to Hiroki-kun's place--!"
"My, Tacchan, are you done with homework?"
"I will after I get back!"

　Itou-san's child, Tacchan came to the living room where the moms were having a lively talk. Ixia couldn't help feeling excited to see this small kid.

"My... What a cute boy."
"Fufu, thank you Ixia-san. Where's your greeting to Ixia-san, Tacchan."
"Waa... Hello, Ixsha-san."
"Fufu, hello. He's really cute, may I carry him in my arm?"
"Fufufu, here you go before he runs off."
"Waaa!"

　Itou-san laughed as she handed her son to which Ixia-san accepted with a big smile on her face.
　The kid was seemingly shy seeing how young Ixia is compared to the other moms present and acted out a bit.
　The kid ran out of the room with a reddened face leaving a satisfied looking Ixia behind.

"Fufu, he's such a cutie. My son would let me sleep with him when he was feeling unwell the other day but he said he could sleep alone now that he's fine. It was a bit disheartening."
"Fufu, kids their age start to insist they can sleep alone."
"Yep yep, just like my kid. He said, 'I'm a grown up already, I can sleep by myself', the moment he went to school. We usually took a nap together too."
"They're all like that. But they're still children at heart. Just the other day, mine said 'Can I sleep with you today?' just because he saw a horror movie on TV."

　Ixia felt as if a bolt just struck her out of the blue. 'I can use that!'
　But think about it. The moms here were talking about Primary School First Year aged six. Absolutely not, 'First year young man in college, aged 18.'

"I agree. There's nothing wrong about us sleeping together."
"Fufu, I know they're too shy to admit though."
"Well it might be a bit... once they're on their second year, but I don't think it's weird when they're still on first grade."  
"Yes. Tacchan would share the bed with me every once in a while too. I don't see any harm if you want with your son, Ixia-san. Especially if he just recovered."
"Yes, I'll make an attempt to convince him today."

　And thus the misunderstanding only deepened as Ixia secretly made the resolve to 'watch a scary movie together next time.'







"Is that you Kazuki-san! Are you here to inspect the building?"
"No. I'm accompanying a friend to assist them with their device tuning."
"Friend... Ah, that hero-san huh."

　Training Facility on Floor 7. Sure enough, it's packed with Scwhein Students.
　The floating city has Training Facilities run by Akimiya office, Akimiya resort hotel and several at our campus, but this location has an easy access which greatly helps attract people. 
　Having known many upper echelon Class S students due to her company connections, one of the male students from that class, I think, walked up and spoke to Kazuki-san.

"That's hero-san for you. He even got Kazuki-san chaperoning him. To tell you the truth, I had always wanted to have a chat with you. I couldn't find the opportunity with all the people flocking you lately though."

　Fumu. I'm familiar with the way this man looks at me. It's the way you see someone you don't like it.
　Well, I do notice plenty of students who obviously don't like me getting the ladies' attention.
　A group of men, probably his friends, showed up behind him.

"Please guide us oh great hero. Tell us the greatness of Class SS."
"You bet, I could use a reference for when I move up the class in second semester."
"Heard you've got some incredible jumping power. I've got plenty of chances if all that takes to join Class SS, don't I? Come on, play with us hero-sama."

　Uou, these young masters are way too obvious about it. But well, I do have some time to kill just like you guys--

"OKOK! Hold on to your seat, my device's not on me, I'mma go rent one." 
"You're quite accommodating aren't you, Sasahara-kun. Are you sure?"
"Sure am. I gotta find a sparing partner anyway. Scwhein Students won't fall behind will they?" 

　I choose a Samurai Edge rental model to practice for my upcoming sheath. Oh... Everything about it looks like a real authentic katana.
　Now then... I'm not kind enough to take their sarcastic remarks lying down, I'm gonna teach them a thing or two.

"All five of you can come at me. That'll make for a light exercise. A handy handicap for you guys if I do say so, no?"

　Alright, got all of their aggro on me. Think that's a job well done for a defender? Time to switch over to attacker.



　I put protectors on my joints and vital points before entering the training field.
　Five Scwhein School students are waiting in a skating rink-sized ring enveloped by a transparent wall for spectating.
　These guys all probably got their own devices. Heck, they might actually have summoned weapons even.

"...Yuuki, was it. Don't get cocky just because you want to get on Kazuki-san's good side..."
"You Class SS bunch is an eyesore. You lot even took over those labs."
"Kazuki-sama and Ichinose-sama are one thing. But how dare plebeians like you stand above us."

　Man you guys didn't waste time at all to show your true colors once we're inside this soundproofed ring. Lemme get a word in too then.

"Shut up mob."

　Okay, that's that. Now then... Yup, the sheath sits just right.
　A blue lamp lit off to signal the start of our match, in order to check how far I could go with my loosened Limiter outside the campus--
　I dashed out at maximum speed. Can't forget to yell 'Daai' in my head of course.

　A running slash. I could tell the drawing slash I made was unlike anything I unleashed before.
　I sheathed the blade and dashed out once again before making another quickdraw slash in one smooth motion.
　I did that five times, and finished the fifth slash before they could even move their hands.

"...Oh shoot, wonder how that looked from the sidelines. Gotta ask for a video data later."

　There should be cameras recording from all the relevant angles in this Training Facility. USH Facilities are just as good....

"So yeah, your weapon devices got blown way over there--"

　I turned around to see the five boys crouching down while holding their hands. It's okay, I don't think they're broken.

"--Still wanna go?"

　Scwhein School students ran away!



"Oh man... I could move better than imagined, so exciting!"

　Outside the training room, a crowd of people has formed around Kazuki-san.
　It's okay, I don't think I moved that abnormally. I mean, Ichinose-san could have blocked it. I'm sure everybody can do it too.
　But it did tell me the sheer gap between Class SS and Class S.
　The way they held their weapons reeked amateur hour to begin with. You should already have Physical Boost on when you grab your weapon. That's just common sense to members of Practical Combat Theory Lab. Our combat readiness is on a different plane altogether.

"Why would you draw attention to yourself."
"Haha, I couldn't help myself... I was so happy I could finally use this type of sheath. Can't rent any Samurai Edge Model in my rural hometown, you see. Also I'm a habitual user of Akimiya models, so this was a first for me. This thing's so easy to handle."
"I-is that quite right... Let me have a look at the sheath."

　Kazuki-san had an amazed look but then she seemed like she realized something and drew her face near my waist.

"...The devices here are well maintained to keep them in their best state, so this means... That one match was all it took to get it to this point. Sasahara-kun, your physical ability is truly a class of its own. The sheath's mouth has already been chipped."
"Uoo, you're right... Will my ordered sheath be fine..."
"I would like to believe it is, but let's bring this damaged sheath as a reference. More importantly--Would you let us use the edited footage of your match as a promotional material? In exchange you won't have to pay for the sheath you ordered. I fear the total cost would greatly balloon."
"Ah, yeah, forgot to ask about the cost."

　Uh well, the pay I got from the last Field Training was enough to last me decades. I can probably afford the price.

"I don't mind as long as you keep my face hidden."
"Fufu, we have a deal. You don't see such high level swordsmanship often. I'm confident it will be a boon to our sales projection."

　Whoa, she's laughing so hard....!



"Thank you for waiting. Here, you can have your device back. We have made an adjustment referencing the damaged sheath you supplied, please feel at ease knowing that the finished product will be better for it. Dear me... I couldn't believe my eyes when I saw a student fighting on the level of a top pro leaguer."
"You're too kind... I'll leave the sheath in your capable hands."

　I received my weapon device back, this giant case will finally take a breather.
　I look back at my match earlier. It's proven now, I really can reproduce all the moves from games stored in my brain. That means... even my Physical Boost itself is the result of me imagining all the stuff in manga and anime found in my original world. With that logic, my power is... actually not quite Physical Boost itself?

"Sasahara-kun. Now that you've taken care of your business, are you going home?"
"Hm, I don't mind tagging along you if you need me, Kazuki-san. Are you heading somewhere?"
"I don't have any specific plan... But how about a meal together as thanks? The time's just right for lunch."
"Thanks?"
"Yes. A token of appreciation for choosing our product, granting us a precious footage and letting me spend a wonderful time on my day off."
"Haha, the feeling's mutual. Okay, where do you wanna go?"
"Yes well. I have a particular place in mind... Will you accompany me to the harbor ward?"

　Harbor ward? That was the place we had a meal during the last Field Training.
　Fumu, wonder if she's got a favorite restaurant there?



　I took my first view on the bridge since that incident inside the car while Kazuki-san was driving.
　Looks like it's still under construction and they're now running a ferry service between the floating city and the mainland.
　But the fact that they're done with most of the foundations in just a month drives home how advanced this world's science is.

"The ruins of bridge in the distance. The construction work is going smoothly thanks to that serving as a relay point."
"I see. I'm just glad they're quick on the reconstruction work. Oh man... Looking at it again, can't believe, how far I jumped..."
"Sasahara-kun, you must take pride in yourself. I cannot stand watching people looking down on you they way that lot did. Do not let those who could only flaunt their household believing they have no flaw look down on you. Not when you risked everything for the sake of other people's lives."

　Kazuki-san sounded vexed as she pondered out loud.

"Pardon me for phrasing it this way, but you'd have nothing left if they look down on you. You're strong and noble. Someone both Akimiya and I believe worthy of our aid. Nobody will fault you if you throw your weight around for a bit."
"Well, you might be right. But you know, I like my life right now. A campus life where I can have fun with my classmates. I'm sure this life will change if I change. I don't want that."

　I might be able to avoid disputes like earlier if I formed a clique and strutted around like I owned the place.
　But... What's so fun about that? That type can stay in the world of novel, manga, anime and game. I don't want to act like that, I'd rather be the protagonist's best friend than the protagonist himself. Yep, best friend. I don't want to become a protagonist.

"Really now. Fufu, I might feel like a clown when I see you."
"Kazuki-san, could it be those words are meant for--"
"...Please forget about it. I choose to stand and take up this mantle with all that I must bear."
"Hm. Well, but there's only you and me, your classmate here, and we're currently out having fun."
"...Fufu, you're exactly right. We've arrived. Let's go."

　Kazuki-san led me to a certain restaurant.
　Well... I thought it'd be some sort of high class establishment, nope, it turned out to be 'Hakata Delish Fest' eatery instead!

"Ah, right. Kazuki-san, you're from Fukuoka."
"My? Did you memorize that tidbit from my introduction? Fufu, our company is an investor of this eatery. I can guarantee the taste. Let's take a seat."

　In the end, I got to enjoy a fun lunch time full of novel Hakata cuisines and listen to Kazuki-san's fervent speech about pork bone ramen.

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