《The Story of an Ace Pilot Who Is the Only Man in an Alien Army Where Chastity Has Been Reversed》 CH 1 Kisei Touchdown ¡°Sir, please wake up.¡± Feeling someone shaking his shoulder, Kisei woke up from his sleep. When he opened his eyes while letting out a big yawn, he saw a middle-aged woman in a suit. ¡°Ah, yes?¡± Kisei replied with a fuzzy voice and looked around. He is currently sitting in a shabby lobby lined with old resin chairs. There¡¯s an electric board displaying flight information installed in front of him ¡°Um, I¡¯m sorry. It was a long trip so I was a little tired.¡± The middle-aged woman blushed a little when Kisei spoke to her with a smile. The reason is Kisei¡¯s appearance. He is a very beautiful boy with a delicate build that even most models and idols would envy him for. ¡°It¡¯s okay.¡± The middle-aged woman replied with a bitter smile. On top of the woman¡¯s head, there is a pair of cat/wolf ears. However, Kisei doesn¡¯t seem to mind such bodily features that clearly don¡¯t belong to a normal human. ¡°Are you traveling alone, sir?¡± ¡°Well, yes. It¡¯s a work thing.¡± ¡°Oh.¡± The woman exclaimed with a slightly surprised voice and observed Kisei. He is currently wearing a pair of thick jeans and a vintage flight jacket so she couldn¡¯t think of him as a normal worker at all. ¡°Do you have someone to pick you up, sir? As you know, this planet is relatively safe but¡­..it is still dangerous for a man to walk around alone.¡± ¡°Yes, I know. But it seems that the other party is occupied at the moment so.¡± Saying so, Kisei glanced at the mobile terminal he had taken out from his pocket and looked at the time. He frowned for a moment but he immediately switched back to his smile. ¡°Ah, I¡¯m really sorry. It seems that I overslept a little. I¡¯m going to be late for a meeting so I have to go now.¡± Kisei stands up and grabs the handle of his small luggage case which lies at his feet. ¡°Thank you for waking me. See you around.¡± ¡°Y, Yes. Please be careful.¡± After a light bow to the woman, Kisei sprinted out the front door of the lobby. He walks a little distance and then looks back. Behind him was a small building he just left from and a massive structure piercing the sky that dwarfed the former, a Mass Driver Rail. Next to the building is a large sign that says [Besaria Spaceport]. ¡ª¨C **TLN: A mass driver or electromagnetic catapult is a proposed method of non-rocket spacelaunch which would use a linear motor to accelerate and catapult payloads up to high speeds. All existing and contemplated mass drivers use coils of wire energized by electricity to make electromagnets. Sequential firing of a row of electromagnets accelerates the payload along a path. After leaving the path, the payload continues to move due to momentum.** ¡ª¨C ¡°Now then¡­¡­¡± Looking forward again, Kisei opened a map app on his mobile terminal. However, all he got from it was a merciless message saying [This Star System is not currently supported.] With a frown, Kisei started walking again. 2 hours later, Kisei found himself in a back alley with sweat drenching his forehead. He now has a paper map in his right hand and his flight jacket is now folded and tucked away under his left arm. ¡°I¡¯m beat¡­¡­.¡± Although his destination should be around here according to the map, he was completely lost. While wiping the sweat off his face, Kisei looks up at the sky. The bluish sun is glaring down from above. With it being this bright, nothing can escape such intense sunlight. ¡°And it is supposed to be winter here huh. This is messed up.¡± It was when I complained aloud to myself that a group of girls appeared out of nowhere and stood in front of him. ¡°Oi , Oi, Nii-chan, what are you doing alone out here.¡± ¡°Did you get lost? Hmmm?¡± The girls all have a somewhat scary grin on their faces and they all dressed in outfits that anyone would find it hard to compliment them about. Just like the middle-aged woman from earlier, the girls all have beast ears on top of their heads. ¡°Geh.¡± With a bitter expression on his face, Kisei immediately decided to run away. However, faster than he could react, the tallest girl grabbed his chest and casually lifted him up. Although Kisei has a delicate physique, the girl who is currently lifting him is hardly well-built. It is a strange scene. ¡°Didn¡¯t your Mama teach you? There are a lot of scary people outside you know.¡± Saying so, the girl pushes Kisei against the wall of a nearby house and licks his cheek. ¡°I¡¯m, in a hurry so¡­¡­can you let me off if I give you money.¡± ¡°Money? Do I look like I need money?¡± The girl let go of his lapel and tossed Kisei to the ground. ¡°You should know right? The exact thing we want.¡± With that said, she put her hand on Kisei¡¯s pants. ¡°Is this some kind of bad joke¡­¡­!¡± Kisei tried to resist but he was completely subdued by her strength. It was like he was pushing against a heavy machine. Being subjected to such strength himself, he doesn¡¯t think that a normal or even a big muscular man can push her off. Moreover, with him being physically weaker than your average man, he stands no chance of getting away through strength alone. The other side also seems to realize that it is a futile resistance so her movement turned to a tease. Her face flushed and her gesture gradually turned beast-like. It is a hopeless situation. However, a quiet yet audible sharp voice interrupted them. ¡°What are you doing.¡± At the source of the voice is a girl with snow-white hair. She is dressed in elegant military uniform and her aquamarine-like eyes coldly glared at the girls. ¡°What? You want to get in our way?¡± ¡°Of course, I am.¡ª¨CI can¡¯t let a violent bunch like yours roaming around freely after all.¡± ¡°Heeee¡­¡­..¡± Hearing that, the girl loosens her grip and provocatively smiles at the new arrival. Kisei tried to get away immediately but he was restrained again by another girl. ¡°Aren¡¯t you getting a little head of yourself here? Ms.Soldier.¡± Saying so, the thug girl hit the military uniform girl. Albeit being thin, her speed was faster than Kisei¡¯s eyes could perceive and her punch also has a powerful force behind it. ¡°Hmph.¡± However, her fist was easily parried by the military uniform girl¡¯s hand. She then grabbed the thug girl¡¯s outstretched arm and twisted it. ¡°Ouch Ouch!¡± ¡°This much should be alright in a street fight like this.¡± The military uniform girl said and put more strength into the twist. ¡°Did you understand the difference between our abilities now?¡± At that moment, the military uniform girl pulled out a revolver pistol from her waist holster at blinding speed and fired. Accompanying the dry sound of the gunshot, a knife that one of the other girls threw toward her chest danced in the air. ¡°¡­¡­.You should hurry up and get lost. If you don¡¯t want to get hurt that is.¡± ¡°Ugh¡­..fine. Let me go!¡± When the military uniform girl released her grip, the thug girl stood up and dusted her clothes while cursing at her. ¡°Let¡¯s go!¡± ¡°Y, Yes.¡± As she walked away, her minions also followed behind her. The military uniform girl then extends her hand to Kisei who was left behind. ¡°Are you okay?¡± ¡°Yes, I¡¯m fine. Thank you very much.¡± Kisei stood up with her help and nodded. ¡°I¡¯m glad. This is a dangerous neighborhood. I will walk you back to a safe place.¡± ¡°Ah, I think that is not going to be necessary.¡± Kisei declined the military uniform girl¡¯s kind offer. He then stood up straight, looked into her eyes, and performed a salute. ¡°Princess Schleer Henrietta, correct. Hokuto Kisei reporting for duty.¡± ¡°Hokuto¡­..Kisei!?¡± ¡°Yes, I¡¯m the mercenary that you hired, Hokuto Kisei, at your service.¡± Unlike earlier, Kisei replied with a challenging smile. CH 2 Mercenary¡¯s Work ¡°I received the confirmation. It seems that you truly are Hokuto Kisei.¡± After a knock, Schleer said that to him as she entered through the door. It has been 30 minutes since Kisei was asked to wait in this air-conditioned reception room. ¡°Umm¨CI never thought that the famous Hokuto Kisei was actually a man.¡± ¡°For Terran(TLN: Earthling), having a male pilot is not that rare though.¡± ¡°I¡¯m sorry. You are the first Terran I¡¯ve ever met¡­¡­¡± Schleer has a troubled smile as she gives him a small bow. ¡°We Vuldes never have men on the battlefield after all.¡± As she said, Schleer was not someone from earth. The Vuldes is the current dominant race of the intergalactic community in this era where Faster Than Light technology has become commonplace. The population ratio of Vuld and Terran is 10,000 to 1. This makes the Terrans a race that you rarely see in space ¡°Of course, I understand. It¡¯s okay, even if I¡¯m a man, I can guarantee my work.¡± Vuld is a race where females have superior physical strength. Furthermore, the distinction in gender roles for the Vuld people is much stronger than the one that exists on earth. Due to the racial trait where men are much unlikely to be born compared to women, it is common for Vuld men to stay home and look after the family. The disparity in male and female birth rates for Vuld is so much that it would be rare for you to see a man walking down the street. ¡°Y, yes. Of course.¡± Even with those words coming from her mouth, it is clear that she is still unconvinced. ¡°Well, let¡¯s leave that aside. Please tell me your current situation and what you¡¯d like me to do. I have read some materials before this meeting but I¡¯d like to hear the information directly from you.¡± ¡°I understand.¡± Schleer nodded and operated the terminal which was installed in the table. A holographic projection of a star chart that belongs to the current star system is projected above the reception table. ¡°As you are aware, we, the Calencia Empire, are currently being invaded by a powerful empire called Nored and our current situation doesn¡¯t look good.¡± Most of the planets on the holographic map are marked red. The red areas seem to indicate Nored¡¯s area of influence. ¡°Their purpose for this invasion is our strategic resources and the territories that our people colonized. Since all they want is our land¡­¡­¡­they have been performing Purge Bombardment on our colonized planets.¡± Purge Bombardment is an act of indiscriminately bombing the planet¡¯s surface from satellite orbit to wipe out the population. In short, an act of genocide. ¡°So they go that far¡­¡­.¡± Colonial wars are not that uncommon but it is rare to see one that resorts to extreme means like this. Thinking so, Kisei frowned at the situation. ¡°Naturally, there is no room for surrender negotiation. Our only hope to survive is to win this war. However¡­¡­.¡± Schleer looks at the star chart. The difference between the fighting power of the two empires is just too much. Calencia empire doesn¡¯t stand that much chance of winning this war. ¡°That¡¯s the reason we called for you, Hokuto Kisei¡ªthe [Wicked Star].¡± ¡°You have no hand left to play so you asked for my help?¡± Kisei asked with a dry smile. ¡°This is not something that you should ask from an individual isn¡¯t it.¡± ¡°Yes¡­..I understand that. However, we have no other way. Of course, we will do our best to support this endeavor as well. Please take a look at this.¡± Saying so, Schleer stood up and opened the window curtain. Beyond the glass is an area that looks like an aircraft parking apron(Tarmac) you can find in an airport. One of the most noticeable objects there is a huge humanoid machine. Despite looking at it from afar, the pure white armor framed machine still seems to be quite large. It is probably well over a dozen meters. Hyper Light Speed Tactical Attackcraft, commonly known as Striker¡ª¨Cthis is how wars are fought in this era. A giant humanoid mobile weapon. ¡°This is the state-of-the-art prototype from Kawashima Ironwork, the Excalibur.¡± ¡°Ahh, the new model from Kawashima. I¡¯ve only heard rumors about this thing.¡± It¡¯s a machine made by a Terran manufacturer, the same place of origin as Kisei. Although Terrans have a huge disadvantage in population ratio, they make use of their technological know-how to sell various products to the Vuldes to earn foreign currency. Weapons, including Strikers, are one of the technologies Earth exports, and the Earth-made war machines are widely available throughout the galaxy. ¡°That [Armament] has also arrived. You can sortie right away.¡± Schleer said that as she pointed at [Excalibur] with an expression saying [How¡¯s that] but a big explosion accompanied by a roaring sound occurred at the tarmac at the very same moment. ¡°UWAA!?¡± A tremendous shockwave shatters the windowpane and blows Kisei along with the furniture in the room away. Unable to bear the brunt of the shockwave, Kisei can only roll to the floor while screaming. ¡°Ugh¡­¡­..WHAT HAPPENED!?¡± Just like Kisei, Schleer was also blown away but she immediately stood up and pressed the communication button on the terminal at her ear. ¡°An orbital bombing!? What, two battleships!? What about our monitoring network!!¡± Schleer is screaming at the mic on her chest with a frustrated expression. However, her anger subsided after she turned her eyes to Kisei who was right next to her. ¡°A, Are you okay!? Any injuries¡­..¡± She hurriedly tried to check Kisei¡¯s body for injuries but her face turned red and she stopped her hand. However, this is not the time to hesitate. After a gulp, she tries putting her hand on Kisei¡¯s chest again. ¡°A, Ahh, I¡¯m okay. That was terrible¡­¡­¡± Before she could touch him, Kisei regained his consciousness and got up, making a disappointing expression appear on Schleer¡¯s face for a moment. In order to hide that from Kisei, Schleer hurriedly shook her head sideways. ¡°Oh, as expected, the Vuld people are really stur¨C¡­¡­.not that, you really are strong. So, what happened?¡± ¡°It¡¯s an enemy attack. Anyway, let us evacuate to a safe area first. Excuse me!¡± Just like that, Schleer easily carries Kisei up. It¡¯s a princess carry. ¡°Wai-.¡± ¡°EXCUSE ME!¡± She seems to be embarrassed but for some reason, her face seems to say [This is not that bad]. Then, with a bright red face, Schleer started running with ferocious momentum. ¡°We have a command center in the basement. If it¡¯s that place then they shouldn¡¯t be able to reach us unless they use a bunker buster. That¡¯s where we are going.¡± That being said, Kisei could do nothing but nod along repeatedly. CH 3 Attack Response ¡°The enemy fleet consisted of two battleships and four mid-sized cruisers ma¡¯am.¡± Said the operator while pointing at the crimson space battleships projected on a large screen. This place is the general headquarters of the local planetary defense unit located deep underground. Inside, dozens of operators and officers are busily working while being illuminated by the dark red emergency lights. ¡°At the moment, enemy battleships still continue their surface bombardment from the orbit. We¡¯ve also confirmed the descent of their Striker Unit, Ma¡¯am.¡± ¡°Kuh¡­¡­they hit us right where it hurt. Even though I went out of my way to hold this meeting on a remote planet like this¡­¡­..¡± ¡°Maybe, they¡¯ve been tracking the new model.¡± Kisei groaned while recalling the appearance of the white humanoid mobile weapon on the tarmac. Unfortunately, the new model was lost forever before Kisei could try piloting it due to the enemy¡¯s orbital bombardment. ¡°Yes. If our monitoring network couldn¡¯t pick them up then it means that the enemy crafts has quite a stealth system¡­¡­¡­and the timing of their attack is too good. The enemy commander must be very sharp.¡± ¡®This is bad¡¯, said Schleer as she folded her arms while gritting her teeth. They waited for the regular passenger ship to land and launched their attack at the timing where their target would surely be inside the base. If they were unlucky, both of them could have been killed immediately with the first strike. ¡°Your Highness. The defense unit of this planet can¡¯t possibly repel a fleet of this size! Can we expect any reinforcement?¡± A female officer who seems to be one of the commanding officers of this base asked Schleer. ¡°I had the Third Fleet remain on standby in the Visla system so that they can launch a rescue in the unlikely event but¡­¡­.¡± ¡°Visla!? Isn¡¯t that half a day away even for the fastest cruiser!? We do not have that much time!¡± In response to the hysterical officer, Schleer put her hand on her forehead. She is exactly right. Schleer had deliberately stationed her troops far away from this planet so that she could trick the enemy¡¯s eyes but it completely backfired now. ¡°Well, it¡¯s no use crying over spilled milk now, Commander.¡± With his hand tucked inside the pockets of his flight jacket, Kisei fearlessly said that to the commander with a smile. ¡°For the time being, I will do something about this situation so please lend me a Striker.¡± ¡°A Striker? We have already sent out all the available Strikers. We don¡¯t have any reserv¨C¡­¡­¡± ¡°Colonel, we still have the ¡®Gradius-Kai¡¯!¡± One of the operators stood up and shouted. Her words were addressing the Colonel but her eyes were fixed on Kisei. ¡°That¡¯s a makeshift machine forcibly remodeled from an outdated training craft! What good can it possibly do!¡± ¡°No, that is enough for me. It¡¯s still better than nothing. Now, please guide me to this machine.¡± ¡°Yes, sir! This Elka Laderson will guide you!¡± The operator glided to Kisei with a bright smile. Why she could not find any shred of urgency in this operator, the commander thought to herself as she held her head. 10 minutes after that, Kisei, who changed into his own pilot suit, was heading to the hangar. ¡°I see. It really was haphazardly put together huh.¡± A blue metal giant stood in front of Kisei. Its height is about 12 meters. Calling this machine slim would be putting it nicely. After all, a clunky armor plate was forcibly welded into this unreliable-looking shabby machine. ¡°Nn, I guess that¡¯s fine. I don¡¯t really hate something like this anyway.¡± He smiled and nodded at the operator who had been guiding his way here. Seeing that, her face turned bright red and she shook her head up and down. ¡°So, Why are you in a pilot suit too, Your Highness? If I remember correctly, this unit should be the only one left here right.¡± Said Kisei as he looked toward Schleer who is now wearing an outfit made of a rubber-like material that snugly fits her body. This is a widely used suit for Striker Pilots and Kisei himself also wears a white one with a similar design. ¡°Of course, I¡¯m going with you.¡± ¡°Going with me!?¡± Kisei replied with a frown. ¡°If it¡¯s designed for training then this machine should have a double seat. If you are as good as the rumor says then the safest place to be would be inside that cockpit with you, no? I can¡¯t afford to die out here after all.¡± ¡°Wha-!¡± The operator tried to protest but Schleer ignored her. Besides, that was just an excuse. Schleer has never seen or heard of a male pilot before. And since they¡¯ve just met, she honestly is still skeptical about his skills. She knows how to pilot a Striker. If push comes to shove, she will be in a position where she can take control of the machine. ¡°Sure¡­¡­..¡± Kisei has his qualms about this as well but as she is his employer, it¡¯s hard for him to protest strongly about it. He can also understand her distrust. That¡¯s why Kisei nodded albeit reluctantly while the operator looked at them with an intense expression. ¡°Well, since we have no time to idling around, let¡¯s head off.¡± With that said, they hopped on a cargo attached to the maintenance gantry crane. After they operated the control panel, they moved the cargo to the front of the cockpit hatch on the chest and the two climbed inside the cockpit. ¡°Damn, it¡¯s tight in here¡­..¡± The 12 meters Striker may seem to be large from the outside but for a mobile weapon where a person is supposed to get inside to pilot, it could be said to be quite compact. Naturally, the usable space in the cockpit is limited. With it being a two-seater, it felt like being trapped inside an octopus trap here. The inside was divided into two parts, upper and lower. Schleer seated herself on the upper co-pilot seat while Kisei sat down on the main pilot seat below. Due to the small space, Kisei¡¯s head is located between Schleer¡¯s legs. There¡¯s no more awkward position than this. ¡°It¡¯s, it¡¯s been a while since I piloted a double-seat machine so I forgot.¡± Said Schleer with a flushed face. ¡°I¡¯m, I¡¯m sorry but¡­¡­th, this is truly unavoidable! I am not trying to sexually harass you at all! There¡¯s no helping it, it¡¯s really inevitable!¡± ¡°Is this the time to be saying that!¡± Kisei operated the console in front of him with a sigh. The cockpit hatch closed and the instrument lights inside the cockpit lit up at the same time. [[Hello, Pilot. Now initiating boot sequence]] Said an AI voice that sounded like a boy. Then, the LCD panels mounted on the inside of the cockpit glow, displaying the image of their surroundings. [[System operational. Activating Phase Transition Turbine.]] The high-pitched rotating sound can faintly be heard inside the cockpit. It seems that the main engine has started up. [[¡­¡­.Zero Point Gate Established. Phase Transition Turbine has reached criticality. Ready for mobilization.]] ¡°Alright.¡± With a grin, Kisei puts his hands on the left and right control sticks. [[System, Checked. Hardware, Checked. Armaments, Checked. I-con connection established. Now transferring control to the pilot.]] ¡°Good. It¡¯s all checked out here, ready when you are.¡± Operating the control, I connect the communication channel to the command room. ¡°Understood.¡± The one who replied was the same operator that guided their way here who had already returned to command since who knows when. ¡°Multiple enemy Strikers are approaching the base. They have also suspended their orbital bombardment of this area. We are going to send you to the surface using a lift, please intercept them, Kisei-san.¡± ¡°Roger that.¡± ¡°Ah, come to think of it¡­¡­¡­¡± Schleer tapped on Kisei¡¯s shoulder. ¡°The armament you requested is being kept in that container. Do you want to use it?¡± There was a red container placed at the area Schleer pointed at. ¡°Ah, don¡¯t mind me then.¡± Nodding to her question, Kisei approached the container and opened it. Inside, there was a rugged machine with a thin and pointy stake installed inside. ¡°Pile Bunker¡­¡­.this is the armament that is synonymous with the [Wicked Star] right.¡± ¡°I think that it is a fairly rational weapon though. I¡¯ve always wondered why no one beside me uses it¡­¡­..¡± While whispering that to himself, Kisei attached the Pile bunker on the Striker¡¯s left arm. ¡°Are you going to use other weapons¡­¡­.?¡± ¡°It seems there¡¯s only an anti-ship grenade launcher left. Well, I will manage.¡± Except for the bazooka-type armament that launches anti-ship missiles, the armory was empty. You wouldn¡¯t find yourself in a situation like this in a well-supplied unit but unfortunately, this is a military base on a remote planet. It made sense that the other pilot would grab everything else besides the anti-ship grenade launcher which is difficult to hit an enemy Striker with. However, Kisei mounted the anti-ship grenade launcher on his Striker¡¯s waist without any complaints. He also didn¡¯t forget to attach the spare ammunition as well. ¡°Alright! Shall we.¡± Saying so, Kisei slapped his cheeks with both his hands and advanced the ¡®Gradius-Kai¡¯ to the lift platform CH 4 ¡°Hey, you heard the rumors that the [Wicked Star] is somewhere in this system?¡± In the cockpit of a striker flying through the dusty atmosphere of Besaria, a young female pilot spoke to her wingman in a carefree voice. ¡°The [Wicked Star], you mean that Wicked Star?¡± ¡°Yeah. It¡¯s kind of a bad omen. Once you see it on the battlefield you are gone¡­¡­.or so they say.¡± ¡°Seriously? That¡¯s bad for us right.¡± Replied the wingman with an upset voice. One of the rumors that are widespread among Striker Pilots is the rumor about this unrivaled mercenary, the [Wicked Star]. ¡°And this one is supposed to be an easy mission too.¡± The wingman muttered to herself. Their enemy¡¯s surveillance network was loose, the interceptors they deployed were all outdated models. A simple mission where they should be able to complete in less than half a day. She would feel depressed to get shot down in such a mission. ¡°Stop spouting nonsense already.¡± A rough husky voice interrupting their conversation. It¡¯s their platoon leader. ¡°With that attitude, you all should be more worried about a stray bullet from some newbie pilots rather than the Wicked Star you know.¡± Hearing that mocking voice, the pilot¡¯s mouth formed straight into a single line. ¡°If the rumors are true then this [Wicked Star] is apparently a cute boy you know. Don¡¯t you want to try capturing him and mess him up?¡± In response, the pilot reflexively looks at the photo she had pinned up on her console. It¡¯s a photo of a beautiful half-naked young male model. The pilot then gently licks her lips. ¡°That¡¯s true.¡± After all, living in the female-only army, she has a lot of pent-up sexual desire. ¡°Well, even if we can¡¯t get this [Wicked Star]-sama, there should be a few catches in the city here. We are on such a remote planet after all. The higher up wouldn¡¯t care if we let loose a little right.¡± ¡°Really?¡± The wingman raises a joyful voice. ¡°Of course, but the first priority is the mission. According to the information we received, there should be an elevator hatch where the enemy used to dispatch their interceptors in this area. Find it.¡± Following the command of their platoon leader, they activated their sensor and scanned the area. Something strange¡­¡­..there it is. An elevator hatch for Strikers. Although it was disguised well, it was not that difficult to find since all they had to do was scan the area where their intelligence department narrowed down for them in advance. ¡°Alright, all units descend to ground level. Check the hatch to see if it¡¯s a dummy. If we hit the jackpot then we will call for reinforcement. Understood?¡± ¡°Yes, ma¡¯am!¡± The motivated female pilots loudly replied and landed their Strikers on the wasteland. The reddish-brown dust rolled up by the thrusters, raising a cloud of dust. ¡°Nn¡­..? Captain, my vibration sensor picked up a movement. The enemy may be coming up this elevator as we speak.¡± ¡°Hmph, like a moth to a flame huh. How pitiful. Erity, I¡¯m leaving this to you.¡± ¡°Roger that.¡± The girl called Erity readied her blaster rifle. The aim is, of course, the elevator hatch. Her finger is on the control stick and she can shoot the enemy striker as soon as it emerges from the hatch. ¡°An easy kill. This is going to be delicious.¡± Meanwhile, Kisei went ¡®HoHou?¡¯ inside the cockpit of [Gradius-kai] which is currently riding on the said elevator. ¡°Wha, what is it?¡± ¡°Nah, it¡¯s nothing¡± Kisei casually responded. ¡°10 seconds to the surface.¡± The Striker¡¯s AI announced with an emotionless voice. ¡°5, 4, 3, ¡­¡­.,2¡­,1¡± The bright light illuminated their cockpit monitors when they reached the surface. At the same time, a red beam of light headed straight toward them. ¡°Something like that won¡¯t work on me!¡± Kisei¡¯s shout echoed out even before Schleer realized that an enemy Striker just fired upon them. The incoming red beam was repelled by the green blade of the photo saber in [Gradius-kai]¡¯s right hand. ¡°What¡­..enemy strikers!?¡± Three red strikers armed to the teeth were displayed on the main monitor. The AI onboard [Gradius-kai] then automatically scanned their model and the word [RMX-55 Jetta] was displayed on the monitor. ¡°But, this is¡­¡­¡± However, for some reason, there was a large hole that seemed to have been caused by an intense heat ray in the abdomen of the striker that is currently holding a blaster rifle. A moment later, accompanied by a loud rumbling sound, the [Jetta] collapsed. ¡°It got deflected back!? With a saber!?¡± Only the captain was able to correctly assess this bizarre situation. She gnashed on her teeth and readied her rifle then fired upon the enemy with no hesitation. The red beam flew toward [Gradius-kai] but Kisei calmly deflected it again using the photon saber. With a high-pitched sound, the beam was deflected back to the shooter again. Just like what a batter does in baseball. ¡°Ugh¡­¡­¡± The Captain¡¯s striker was barely able to block the deflected beam with the shield attached to the left arm. However, as he already anticipated that, Kisei activated his thrusters and immediately approached the Captain. ¡°You¡­¡­BASTARD!¡± Seeing that the only long-range armament on the [Gradius-kai] is only the anti-ship grenade launcher, the Captain immediately abandoned her rifle and pulled out her photon saber from the weapon rack on the striker¡¯s shoulder. ¡°Kei! I will hold this guy off! Take a distance and use your rifle!¡± The Captain¡¯s striker is stopping Kisei¡¯s rush with its photon saber. However, at the moment the two strikers collided, Kisei pulled back the control stick and stepped on the pedal at his foot with all his might. The [Gradius-kai] immediately flew up and retreated, leaving a smoke cloud covering the Captain¡¯s striker. ¡°Trying to blind me? Useless trick!¡± Even with the optical camera blinded, the striker has both radar and infrared sensors equipped. She doesn¡¯t lose track of her enemy. After the [Gradius-kai] landed with a roaring sound, the Captain charged her striker directly toward it. ¡°EAT THIS!¡± However, at the receiving end of her red photon saber was not the body of the [Gradius-kai] but a green saber instead. On top of not being able to cope with her enemy¡¯s minor movement using the sensor alone, her striker also stepped on uneven ground and lost its balance. Then, Kisei lightly ignited his thrusters. A light shock shook the cockpit of the [Gradius-kai]. With a linear-guide-mechanism, the stake was discharged and plunged itself into the enemy¡¯s striker¡¯s stomach. ¡°One left!¡± The dull-colored stake wet with hydraulic oil returns to its original position using the winding mechanism. With the engine located in the abdomen area destroyed, the Captain¡¯s striker instantly ceased all function and collapsed. ¡°Pile¡­.bunker!? No way, the [Wicked Star]!?¡± The last pilot bitterly screamed and half-instinctively pulled the trigger of her rifle. The muzzle of her blaster rifle flashed and a red beam was discharged from it. However¡­¡­ ¡°If you are that desperate then you should have just retreated!¡± The beam was easily deflected by the photon saber. Kisei then floored the pedal and accelerated toward the last enemy striker. In the cockpit of [Gradius-kai], a lock-on warning was ringing loudly to warn the pilot. Schleer¡¯s face completely turned blue as the chill traveled down her spine from the warning. At the same time, the enemy pilot who had already lost it repeatedly fired her rifle toward the approaching Gradius-kai. Once, twice, or thrice, it doesn¡¯t change the outcome no matter how many beams she fired. ¡°HII¡­..!¡± Finally, she completely gave up and abandoned her rifle as she turned to flee. The moment she tried to ignite the thruster to flee to the sky, a stake pierced her striker from the back. Accompanied by a roaring noise, the [Jetta] was blown away, taking a good chunk of dirt with it. Then, Kisei ceased the movement of his striker. With a motor sound, the stake that was glowing black was stored back inside the injection cylinder. ¡°¡­¡­.For the time being, I just took down three strikers. Is that enough to prove my skills?¡± Kisei asked Schleer with a little dissatisfied voice. ¡°Ah, Ahh¡­¡­¡± On the other hand, Schleer could only nod. ¡°It¡¯s more than enough.¡± CH 5 The Wicked Star ¡°Seventh!¡± The stake made out of special alloy found its way through another red striker¡¯s abdomen. Just like a marionette with its strings cut, the enemy striker collapsed on the asphalt-paved road. The battlefield has changed from a reddish-brown wasteland to an urban area. It appears that the evacuation was already completed and there¡¯s no need to worry about civilians here. ¡°Concentrate your Fire! Overwhelm that striker with firepower!¡± Several [Jettas] aim their machine guns and blaster rifles at Kisei. At the same time, the [Gradius-kai] kicked the ground and its blue thruster exhaust burned the afternoon sky above the city. ¡°Do you think!¡± The enemy opened fire. Thanks to his prompt evasive maneuver, most beams and shells cut through the empty space and destroyed the uninhabited buildings. However, the strikers wielding machine guns which have a high fire rate still track the [Gradius-kai]. ¡°You can take me down!¡± A large number of 30mm shells flew toward Kisei who warded them all off with his photon saber. The sound of blaster beams burning the atmosphere and the sound of shells being evaporated mixed together and created a nightmare concerto. The metal shells which were mostly turned into steam generated black smoke and fell back down to the city. ¡°With this much firepower!¡± While literally mowing down the bullets flying toward him, He quickly approaches the shooters. ¡°Tsk! Damn you!¡± One of the [Jettas] throws away their machine gun and pulls out a photon saber from its shoulder rack. However, faster than the blade could be formed, a powerful kick hits the Jetta¡¯s arm. The photon saber was sent flying and the pilot could only stiffen at her imminent death. ¡°I won¡¯t let you!¡± Her wingman stepped in with a thrust from her own photon saber and prevented Kisei¡¯s pursuit. She thrust her photon saber out with all her might to protect her comrade but that left her thruster wide open. ¡°You¡¯ve got guts!¡± Kisei shouts with a ferocious smile. He twisted the body of his striker to avoid the beam blade. At the same time, he also grabbed the wingman¡¯s striker¡¯s arm and planted his striker¡¯s feet on the ground. He then activated the anchor mechanism on the sole of his striker¡¯s feet and a pair of steel claws dug into the asphalt. ¡°Uwah!¡± The Jetta whose charge vector was beautifully redirected was blown away and collided with the first Jetta. Both strikers rolled on the ground with a loud noise. Without caring about those two strikers, Kisei floored the pedal again. This time a stream of flame was instantly discharged from the thrusters, accelerating [Gradius-kai] away as if it was caught in an explosive blast. ¡°You bastard! Doing whatever you want to our unit!!¡± A [Jetta] pointed its rifle to the [Gradius-kai]. However, the [Gradius-kai] planted one of its feet into the asphalt with the anchor again and spun itself using the momentum. ¡°Ugh¡­.!¡± With his entire body attacked by the G-force, Kisei grits his teeth. Then at the same moment the red beam flew right past his striker he re-accelerated. His pile bunker ruthlessly pierced the enemy Jetta before it could react. ¡°¡­.! Haa¡­..¡± He finally breathed out and took a deep breath as he made the Gradius-kai kick the ground. Igniting the thrusters, he flew to the sky again. ¡°Orah!¡± Just like that, he accelerated the Gradius-kai at full power. His target is the enemy striker that is about to get up. The enemy Jetta which received a kick with the full weight of Gradius-kai to the chest was slammed to the ground with a tremendous force, breaking its main camera. ¡°Ugh¡­¡­!¡± On the other hand, Kisei, who performed an Ukemi and landed, casually stood up. His pile bunker was then driven into the defenseless abdomen of the[Jetta] that had stopped moving due to his earlier surprise attack. ¡°Alright!¡± After that, he proceeded to give the finishing blow by driving his pile bunker into the last remaining [Jetta]. It was a one-sided game. With the combat finally over, Kisei turned off the photon saber. After watching the beam blade dispersed, Kisei stored the grip into the compartment located at the clavicle of Gradius-kai. ¡°No enemy detected.¡± The AI stated with an inorganic voice. It appears that all enemy strikers that descend to this area were completely wiped out. ¡°Th, Thanks for your work?¡± Schleer said that as if she just managed to form her determination to speak. ¡°Y, You were¡­¡­much wilder than I thought? Kisei-san.¡± Her first impression of Hokuto Kisei was that of a small fragile boy. The fact that she just saw him yelling his warcry and went on a demonic rampage earlier came as a surprise to her. ¡°No, I mean, you know¡­¡­if your fighting spirit is less than your opponent, then you can¡¯t win the battle right.¡± After taking a deep breath, Kisei replied. ¡°The 3 most important things to rely on the battlefield are first your guts, your luck, and finally your pilot skills. That¡¯s my motto.¡± ¡°Are you sure that you didn¡¯t mistake your order?¡­¡­.¡± ¡°Well¡­..it¡¯s true that I can get very loud. I¡¯m sorry.¡± Saying so, Kisei turned to Schleer and smiled. She could not feel any trace of the demon she saw earlier at all. If anything, his smile just made her want to protect him instead. ¡°Uuu¡­¡­.¡± With her heart racing faster, Schleer turned away to hide her flushed face. ¡°N, No, It¡¯s me who should apologize. It¡¯s pathetic of me for putting a beautiful man like you on the battlefield¡­.! This is completely due to my inability.¡± Being called a beautiful man, Kisei¡¯s cheeks cramped. ¡°Uhh, I¡¯m a mercenary so I am fighting on the battlefield with my own volition though¡­¡­¡± ¡°This is a matter of pride! I¡­¡­¡­This Schleer Henrietta swears as a knight that I will become a woman who can protect you!¡± ¡°It¡¯s not something that you should swear about though.¡± Kisei rolled his eyes. He also has his pride as a pilot. There¡¯s no way that he¡¯s happy to be told something like that. It¡¯s true that he¡¯s pretty much helpless once he gets off a striker though¡­¡­ ¡°Well, more importantly.¡± While ignoring Schleer as she muttered ¡®If only I have Mistilteinn with me¡­..¡¯, Kisei states his plan. ¡°There are still enemies left so I¡¯m going to get them next okay.¡± ¡°Enemies? You want to go to another theater?¡± ¡°The noisy ones are still active after all. Let¡¯s go silence them.¡± Saying so, he pointed at his destination¡ª¡ªthe sky. ¡°Up there¡­¡­? Don¡¯t tell me, you plan to stop the orbital bombing?¡± Certainly, the thunderous sound from the orbital bombardment can still be heard from here. ¡°I brought an anti-ship grenade launcher for that purpose after all. Is there any Ride Booster lying around here? Please show me.¡± Schleer lost her words at Kisei who said that as if it was the most natural thing to do. CH 6 Breaking Through the Atmosphere On inhabitable planets with a gravity level of more or less 1G, most Strikers have enough thrust to leave the atmosphere. However, that¡¯s just for leaving the atmosphere. Even if you manage to reach the satellite orbit in a striker, you would have already spent most of your fuel and the amount left would very much limit your combat capability. ¡°Reaching 40,000 meters in altitude.¡± State the AI. The [Gradius-kai] is currently flying at ultra-high altitudes on what seems to be a wheelless motorcycle. A huge amount of jet stream is being emitted from the two large rocket engines mounted on the rail of said motorcycle, providing tremendous thrust power. This type of auxiliary propulsion device is called a Ride Booster and such devices are used widely by Strikers to break through the atmosphere. Kisei and Schleer are currently using one to reach the enemy fleet in orbit. ¡°But taking on a whole fleet with only a single striker¡­¡­is it not too unreasonable?¡± ¡°It sure is. But if we don¡¯t hurry up and stop their bombardment, there will be a lot of casualties, you know.¡± No, there are probably a large number of casualties by now. The orbital bombardments so far have been limited to surface-penetrating ammunition aimed at the area where underground military facilities are likely to be located but the enemy performed a perfect surprise attack where the people here received no warning at all. With the state of the city after being subjected to the stray bullets alone indicated that, like it or not, this is already a mess. ¡°Besides, if we keep being passive here¡­¡­do you think we can win?¡± ¡°The Third Fleet¡­¡­if we can meet up with some reinforcements¨C.¡± Schleer said bitterly. ¡°¡­¡­If I have to be honest, even if you manage to join up with your reinforcements, your chance of winning is still slim. The Third Fleet is just a jumble of outdated ships. You may have a superior number on your side but in terms of quality, it will be your complete defeat.¡± Schleer knew that the enemy battleships were of the Rovan-class, the latest Space Battleship of the Nored empire. In a head-on battle, the Third Fleet which is just a ragtag fleet would likely get one-sidedly defeated. It is because they know that the enemy chose such a bold strategy. ¡°That¡¯s why I¡¯m doing this. If I can crush the enemy¡¯s flagship, there¡¯s a good chance that their entire fleet will withdraw. If not, at least we will be able to stop their orbital bombardment.¡± ¡°Is that¡­¡­really possible? Kisei-san.¡± ¡°I don¡¯t see why it would be impossible, you know. I¡¯m the strongest after all?¡± ¡°You are?¡± Schleer smiled at what sounded like words from a child. It¡¯s a grand statement that no one would be at fault to dismiss. However, since those words came from a man who just casually annihilated multiple of the enemy¡¯s military standard strikers with a remodeled training machine, rather than dismissing him, those words gave her a sense of reliability instead. ¡°Then¡­..I have a plan. Can you hear me out?¡± ¡°A plan? You have some kind of secret weapon hidden here?¡± ¡°No, it¡¯s not that big of a deal. Kisei-san. Instead of targeting the enemy¡¯s flagship, can you please aim for their escort cruisers instead?¡± ¡°The Cruisers?¡± Certainly, they were told that the enemy has 4 medium-sized cruisers in their fleet. However, the orbital bombing is being carried out by the artillery guns on the battleships. In other words, the battleships are much more threatening to the surface than the cruisers. There is also the issue of enemy morale. That¡¯s why Kisei personally thinks that it would be more effective to just ignore the cruisers and attack the battleships¡­¡­ ¡°It¡¯s not like we have enough ammunition to completely destroy one of their battleships even if we spend it all. I think that it is better to take down their cruisers instead.¡± Naturally, cruisers are less armored and much smaller than battleships so they are easier to take down. However, despite having less armor, they are equipped with all kinds of weapons. As the only thing they can use is this striker, it would be harder to take these cruisers down. ¡°Do you think the enemy will retreat if we destroy their cruisers?¡± ¡°Yes. Without their escort, the only things they have to protect those battleships would be some strikers and missile vessels. That will make their fleet much easier to deal with. This will give the Third Fleet a good chance of winning. Also¡­¡­¡± Schleer put her hand on Kisei¡¯s shoulder. ¡°The enemy¡¯s objective is the new striker, me,¡­¡­.and your elimination. If we show them that you are still alive and are a real threat to their fleet, they will not bother remaining in this system.¡± The Nored empire already has advantages in this war. They wouldn¡¯t want to risk losing their precious advanced battleships in an unfavorable battle. ¡°I see, I understand. Let¡¯s do that.¡± Kisei has no objection. He gave her a nod and pulled the control stick up. The [Gradius-kai] left the blue sky below and flew across the darkness of space like a comet¡­¡­ CH 7 Prepare for Combat! ¡°They are firing at us already huh.¡± A high-power beam with intense heat flies toward them through the emptiness of space. After he operated the [Gradius-kai] to avoid it with paper-thin margin, Kisei spoke to Schleer. ¡°We are going right straight at them!¡± ¡°Y, yes.¡± Taking a deep breath, Schleer gives Kisei a nod. When Kisei glanced at the monitors on the console, it appears that multiple enemy strikers are en route toward them. It¡¯s the enemy interceptors. ¡°Artillery fire¡­..!¡± The enemy fired another artillery shot. Once again, Kisei avoided it with only a slight movement. The electromagnetic waves from the beam caused the radar noises to cover the screen for a moment. After gulping down her saliva, Schleer turned her gaze to the front monitor. ¡°Should we not ditch this ride booster now?¡± The powerful thrust it provides surely gives them speed but at the same time, their mobility is also greatly impaired. It is common sense to disengage your Ride Booster before engaging the enemy. ¡°No, it is still useful.¡± ¡°¡­..Is that so.¡± Schleer, who has already understood that common sense doesn¡¯t really apply to Kisei, simply nodded to his reply. Then, Kisei used the left hand of [Gradius-kai] to pull out the photon saber. ¡°Reaching engagement distance in 3, 2, 1¡­¡­¡­¡± The AI announced with an emotionless voice. A moment later, a salvo of blaster rifles flew toward the [Gradius-kai]. While maintaining the Ride Booster at full output, Kisei avoids the incoming beams by utilizing small bursts from the [Gradius-kai]¡¯s thrusters to make his movement appear to be irregular. Meanwhile, he had to grit his teeth due to the G-force that is assaulting his body. ¡°Kisei-san¡­¡­¡± Seeing that, Schleer¡¯s small voice leaked out. For a Vuld, who possesses a much stronger body than Terrans, dealing with this much G is nothing to her at all. In contrast, Kisei¡¯s expression seems to indicate that this is quite painful for him. ¡°I¡¯m so pathetic, to put a man in a painful situation like this¡­¡­.!¡± Her small voice leaked out as Schleer grabbed the control stick on the co-pilot seat. ¡°I told you, I¡¯m fighting at my own free will!¡± Schleer, who didn¡¯t expect him to hear her voice in this cockpit filled with the noisy sound of the engine and various warnings from the system, groaned to herself. ¡°You know, I love roaming the battlefield in a striker!¡± Kisei shouts as he repels the beam which was accurately fired toward the [Gradius-kai] with the photon saber. ¡°There¡¯s no need for you to pity or worry about me at all! Do you understand!?¡± ¡°Y, Yes.¡± Schleer nodded and Kisei now used the [Gradius-kai] own thrusters to accelerate even further. Due to the intense speed, Kisei¡¯s body is being tightly pressed back against his seat. ¡°UWAWAWAWA! T, Too close!¡± Due to the seat layout, when Kisei got pushed backward, his head would naturally be pressed to Schleer¡¯s navel. This made her face turn bright red. ¡°I had no choice! It was completely unavoidable! I didn¡¯t plan to sexually harass you at all! Not at all!¡± ¡°SHUT UP! I¡¯M NOT DOING THAT EITHER! DON¡¯T SUE ME LATER ALRIGHT!¡± Because she was getting noisy, Kisei finally threw any semblance of politeness out the door and shouted back. ¡°I¡¯m not going to sue you know! This is like a reward after all!¡± ¡°A reward!?¡± ¡°Ah! Awawawawa.¡± ¡°Don¡¯t Awawawawa me now!¡± The two left the enemy strikers far behind them as they were having such a ridiculous conversation. They still continue to fire at them with their blaster rifles but Kisei simply avoids them as though he has eyes on the back of his head. ¡°Argh, whatever!¡± After a loud shout, Kisei grabbed the anti-ship grenade launcher from the hardpoint installed at the [Gradius-kai]¡¯s back. This bazooka-looking armament is a weapon that any striker that aims to attack battleships can¡¯t do without. The enemy fleet is already right in front of them. Their anti-aircraft guns are firing tracer rounds at them, lighting up the darkness like fireworks. ¡°Two battleships, Four cruisers,¡­..it¡¯s the standard escort formation.¡± Schleer muttered as she watched the enemy cruisers forming around the crimson battleships. ¡°So, how are we going to¡­¡­.eh.¡± Schleer was dumbfounded as Kisei did not slow down at all despite the fact that the enemy fleet was right in front of them. ¡°W, Wait!¡± As they approached an enemy¡¯s cruiser, multiple anti-aircraft guns opened fire on the [Gradius-kai]. Kisei can still avoid the barrage with minimum movements and block some of it using the photon saber but there¡¯s still a limit to how much a single photon saber can do. Several shells grazed the underside of the Ride Booster and it started letting out black smoke from its hull. ¡°A, Are we going to be okay!?¡± With the enemy cruiser kept getting bigger and bigger on the monitor, and impact after impact from the enemy¡¯s shells, Schleer started to panic. However, Kisei ignores her. And at the moment when they arrived at the position where the anti-aircraft guns on the deck of the cruiser can not target them, creating a blind spot, the [Gradius-kai] jumped off the Ride Booster. ¡°First one down!¡± With smoke and flame still rising from it, the Ride Booster violently collided into the stern(rear) of the cruiser¡­¡­¡­the exact location where their propulsion engine was. A fiery explosion broke out. If they were still within the atmosphere then they would probably be subjected to the tremendous shockwave as well. With its propulsion engine completely disable, the cruiser can no longer navigate without receiving an intense repair at a dock first. ¡°Guh¡­¡­.!¡± Just like that, Kisei turns back his striker and decelerates at full throttle. Intense G-force assaults his body once again. However, he does not stop moving. He warded off the bullets from the anti-aircraft guns and evaded a beam from the enemy anti-aircraft blaster cannon. ¡°Next!¡± He managed to kill the extra speed and succeeded in evading the battleships¡¯ firing range. He then accelerated and advanced his striker to his next prey. The total number of anti-aircraft guns of the entire fleet easily exceeded a hundred. All of them were aimed at Kisei and made full use of their firepower. The barrage of beams and shells looks like a wall closing in on him. In that despair-inducing situation, Kisei avoids and wards off everything that comes at him. ¡°Second one!¡± He approached an enemy cruiser from behind and fired his anti-ship grenade launcher. The grenade launcher electromagnetically accelerated the 406mm shell toward the cruiser¡¯s engine. The missile shell which sewed through the gap between their anti-aircraft fires made its impact on the engine. With second and third shots fired in succession, the second cruiser¡¯s propulsion was completely destroyed. ¡°We did it!¡± Schleer cheered at their success but this time beams from blaster rifles were flying at them from behind. The enemy Strikers unit has caught up to them. ¡°Completely surrounded huh¡­¡­Come at me!¡± While avoiding the beams with the slightest movement, Kisei ferociously smiled at his enemies. CH 8 Rival (in love?) . ¡°We¡¯ve lost communication with the Nessia! We¡¯ve also lost over 50 percent of our strikers, ma¡¯am!¡± ¡°The Referson reported their engine failure! They are dropping out from the formation, ma¡¯am!¡± ¡°Fools! Just how long do you plan to let a single striker humiliate us like this! Concentrate fire now!¡± The inside of the bridge of the [Prussia], the flagship of the 7th Fleet of the Nored empire, was like a pandemonium. Blue veins popped on the Navigation Officer¡¯s head as the communication officers loudly yelled out their reports. In the middle of that pandemonium, Valentina Tous Argarine, Commanding Officer of the 7th Fleet as well as the 13th Princess of the Nored empire, quietly stood up from her seat. ¡°So this is the [Wicked Star] huh. I see. The rumors were not exaggerated after all.¡± Despite this strange situation where a lone striker is taking on the entire fleet, she seemed to be enjoying herself. ¡°Your Highness¡­¡­?¡± The glasses-wearing Navigating Officer puzzledly called out to her commander. ¡°I came up with a good idea to get us out of this.¡± When Valentina declared so while fluttering her curled rich blond hair, the Officer¡¯s expression completely changed. ¡°No way¡­¡­You can¡¯t! Your Highness!¡± ¡°I¡¯m going for a duel! Prepare my steed!¡± ¡°You can¡¯t! Your Highness! We can¡¯t let you do that! Your Highness! Your Highness!¡± A few minutes later. Inside the cockpit of the [Gradius-kai] which had been engaging in a fierce space battle with the enemy strikers, Schleer raised her voice. ¡°They are¡­¡­retreating?¡± The enemy striker unit which had launched a fierce attack on them earlier is now falling back in waves. The enemy anti-aircraft guns also ceased their activity, leaving the [Gradius-kai] completely alone. ¡°This is a chance but¡­¡­it¡¯s too unnatural. I think that it would be better if we disengage for now.¡± ¡°No¡­..It seems something is coming you know.¡± Saying so, Kisei points at the giant crimson battleship floating in the dark empty space. When Schleer directed her eyes at the monitor, a striker was launched out from its catapult deck. That lone striker is now approaching them using its thrusters. However, there is no system warning indicating that they have been locked on either. ¡°I came to see the famous [Wicked Star]! I have a proposition for you as well, do you mind sheathing your weapons?¡± Communication came through the Open Channel. However, faster than she could digest those words, Schleer received a powerful shock from the appearance of the striker. ¡°Black and gold striker¡­¡­..a Royalcraft!?¡± The striker that approached them was a luxurious one painted in black with elegant gold engraving. In its hand is something that looks like a jousting lance, creating the image that this is no ordinary striker. ¡°A Royalcraft? Meaning¡­..there¡¯s a bigshot from Nored on that?¡± ¡°Yes. Only the relatives of the Emperor are allowed to have that engraving on their strikers. I never thought that one of their royal family would be here.¡± Schleer frowned at the unexpected appearance of such a VIP. She is also a part of a royal family herself but the power of their empires are just too different. ¡°I see. She said that she has a proposition but¡­¡­what do you want to do?¡± ¡°Even if you ask me that¡­¡­¡± Schleer thought for a moment and glance at Kisei. ¡°¡­¡­for the time being, let¡¯s hear her out.¡± ¡°Roger that.¡± After giving a nod to his employer, Kisei operates the communication console. ¡°This is the [Wicked Star], Hokuto Kisei. Let¡¯s hear it.¡± Saying so, he put away the photon saber and the grenade launcher and raised both hands up. ¡°You have my gratitude. I want to have a face-to-face conversation with you. Open the cockpit hatch for me.¡± ¡°¡­¡­..Understood.¡± After giving Schleer a glance, Kisei opened the cockpit hatch. Neither of them is wearing helmets but the pilot suits they are wearing also come with life-support functions that deploy an air-field around them so there¡¯s no need to worry about suffocation due to oxygen leakage. The black-gold striker approached the [Gradius-kai] from the front and linked both of its hands with the [Gradius-kai]¡¯s. Then its cockpit hatch finally opened. ¡°Valentina Tous Argarine, 13th Princess of the Nored empire, pleased to meet you.¡± Coming out of the cockpit was a mysterious beauty with curly blond hair. Kisei himself also stood up from his pilot seat and leaned out of his striker, using the opened hatch as a ramp. ¡°Hi, I¡¯m Hokuto Kisei.¡± ¡°Oh, your skills is one thing but it seems that your appearance exceeded even the rumors huh. I never thought that a man was really piloting this.¡± ¡°My skills aside, you won¡¯t get anything even if you praise my look, you know.¡± Kisei shrugs while looking up at Valentina who is a head or two taller than him. There was no shyness on her face. After all, the sexual desire of Vuld women is even stronger than that of the men on earth. Since I have heard this kind of pick-up line countless times already, I¡¯m completely numb to it. In the first place, Vuld women all have overwhelming physical strength. If I let them have their way with a fragile Terran guy like me, they would tear me to pieces. Kisei is also a healthy young man but, truth is, if he has to subject himself to a fate worse than death by committing to this kind of¡ª¡ª¨Crelationship(?), he would rather just remain single. ¡°Hahaha, playing hard to get huh. I¡¯m attracted to you more and more now.¡± After giving Kisei a broad smile, Valentina¡¯s eyes shifted to the person emerging from the cockpit behind Kisei. The glint in her eyes gave him the feeling that she can unholster her gun and shoot Schleer down right at that moment. ¡°By the way, what is ¡®that¡¯?¡± ¡°¡­..! Schleer Henrietta. I¡¯m the princess of the country you launched your cowardice invasion against!¡± ¡°Hmm? Ah, come to think of it, I think someone already told me about you. I completely forgot your existence until now though.¡± Schleer grit her teeth at that humiliating statement. She pulls Kisei¡¯s shoulder back and steps in front of him as if she¡¯s trying to protect him from Valentina. ¡°Uhh, I don¡¯t think an employer should step in front of their own mercenary.¡± ¡°I¡¯d not be a woman if I kept hiding behind a man¡¯s back!¡± ¡°Is that really what someone who just sat back and let said man fought the entire battle for her says? On my world, they call a woman like you a pimp, you know.¡± After Valentina casually insulted her, Schleer instinctively pulls out her revolver from her waist holster. ¡°Hmm.¡± Almost at the same time, Valentina also pulled out her automatic pistol at a blinding speed. They pointed their guns at each other and it felt like they could open fire at each other at any moment. ¡°Please stop! Did you not come here to talk.¡± ¡°KuKu, Certainly, a lady should not allow blood to spill in front of a man. I will apologize for that.¡± Valentina swiftly returns her gun to the holster while Schleer reluctantly does the same. ¡°Well, our self-introduction was a tad bit prolonged. Let¡¯s get down to business.¡± ¡°¡­¡­it appeared so. This proposition you mentioned. Let¡¯s hear that for the time being.¡± Schleer said with a blue vein still popping on her head. ¡°Yeah, to put it simply, I want to have a one-on-one duel. Between me and Kisei that is.¡± ¡°It¡¯s that after all? The Nored empire sure has a lot of guts.¡± ¡°Kisei-san!¡± Schleer shouted in protest. Seeing that, Valentina giggled at her. ¡°Guts, huh. As I thought, you really are interesting.¡± ¡°I mean, it¡¯s true right. Normally, the person on top needs a lot of guts to come to a place where she may or may not die after all.¡± For the Vuldes who place great importance on their leaders¡¯ ability, it¡¯s common for commanders of two opposing forces to fight each other on the front line. However, Valentina must have seen Kisei¡¯s ability with her own eyes already. Even so, she came out here with no hesitation at all. She wouldn¡¯t be able to do that without having a lot of guts. ¡°What, if I can¡¯t even fulfill my Noblesse oblige, no one would want to follow me after all. Besides¡­¡­¡± With a grin, Valentina continued. ¡°Kisei, you have been fighting while trying to kill the least amount of enemy possible. Am I wrong?¡± ¡°Ah, you can tell?¡± Kisei bluntly answered Valentina¡¯s question. Hearing that, Schleer also went ¡®Come to think of it now¡­.¡¯ in a small voice. ¡°Against strikers, you aimed at their engines and left the cockpit completely unharmed. Even when you attacked the cruisers, you did not target the bridge which is their weak point, and focused on neutralizing their propulsion engines instead right? It¡¯s so obvious that anyone would be able to tell.¡± ¡°Even in this line of work, I still hate seeing people die after all.¡± ¡°That¡¯s elegant. Seriously, don¡¯t make me fall for you any more than this. You are the complete opposite of my older sister¡­¡­.¡± She said the last part in a small voice and it felt like she was talking to herself rather than Kisei. ¡°And that¡¯s why I¡¯m not so worried about dying here. Rather, I¡¯m more concerned about how to take you down without harming you instead.¡± ¡°Minimizing the casualty is just a handicap I placed on myself. You can come at me with your full power you know.¡± ¡°No, it¡¯s not like that. After all¡­¡­¡± Valentina¡¯s mouth curved into a sweet smile. ¡°After I win, I¡¯m going to have you join my family¡­¡­.¡± CH 9 One-on-One Duel ¡°But, was it really okay? Accepting a condition like that.¡± While they were seeing off the back of Valentina¡¯s striker from the [Gradius-kai], Schleer asked in a small voice. The conditions for this one-on-one duel with Valentina are extremely simple. If Kisei wins, she will withdraw her fleet. And if Valentina wins, Kisei will have to become hers. The former aside, the latter was something unacceptable for Schleer. It is common among the Vuld nations for a beautiful prince of a defeated nation to get forcefully married off to the winning side. However, Kisei is a mercenary and a Terran. He has no obligation to practice Vuld¡¯s customs. ¡°It¡¯s okay. I just have to win after all.¡± Kisei calmly answered. In truth, as long as they win it¡¯s not a bad condition for them at all. Even if the reinforcements arrive and join the fight against their imperial fleet, there is no doubt that the Calencia side will suffer a lot of damage. If instead, the enemy fleet chooses to withdraw, it would be better to let them go so that Schleer¡¯s side can regain their bearings. ¡°But with this striker¡­¡­..¡± Of course, Schleer no longer has any doubt about Kisei¡¯s ability as a pilot. However, the spec of Valentina¡¯s striker should be far superior to the mass-produced model they have fought so far. Valentina¡¯s personal striker, the [Ortho Kratzer]. This striker is said to have been newly designed from scratch as a Royalcraft with a single-minded pursuit of performance. By completely ignoring the costs, not only its main engine, its armor, propulsion system, and sensors are all top of the line. ¡°Well, it¡¯s true that this machine is nothing compared to a Zenith-type.¡± This kind of one-off high-performance craft is called the Zenith-type. The type of weapon that spreads fear on the battlefield. Still, in terms of weapons, you would be better off mass-producing lower-cost models rather than spending all your resources on a uselessly high-spec one. That being said, just like how royalty and aristocrats on earth always demand some kind of special weapons for their exclusive use in the medieval era, the Vuldes are doing the same thing. Against a Zenith-type striker, the [Gradius-kai] which was modified with some armor and random avionics should stand no chance of winning. Furthermore, the[Gradius-kai]¡¯s only available armament at the moment is an anti-ship grenade launcher whose spare ammunition is already exhausted. ¡°But you see, don¡¯t you think this is kind of exciting? It¡¯s a situation that you usually only see in manga or movies you know.¡± ¡°If it¡¯s like in the manga then the only outcome waiting for you would be to get humiliated by that woman in front of me right!!¡± ¡°JUST WHAT KIND OF MANGA DO YOU USUALLY READ!!¡± Kisei forgot himself and loudly retorted. ¡°Awawawa¡­¡­.¡± Kisei let out a long sigh at Schleer who is now covering her mouth from embarrassment. ¡°I¡¯ve worked for many Vuld armies so I¡¯m already used to this but¡­¡­can I please have some professional delicacies so as to not touch such a topic?¡± ¡°I¡¯m sorry¡­¡­¡± Hearing those words which formed from his long years of enduring such a thing, Schleer apologizes to him in a small voice. ¡°Well, leaving that aside, we are about to enter combat. Let¡¯s put our all into this!¡± ¡°Ye, Yes.¡± After Kisei loudly breathes out and slowly takes a deep breath to switch his mood, he grasps the control sticks and points his gaze to the front. A white flare was fired from the [Prussia]. At the same time, a communication came in from Valentina. ¡°13th Princess of the Nored empire, Valentina Tous Argarine. [Ortho Kratzer] hereby challenge you to a duel!¡± ¡°Mercenary, Hokuto Kisei. [Gradius-kai] accept your challenge!¡± It is a Vuld¡¯s custom to announce their name in battle as their race puts great importance on formalist aesthetics. Immediately after Kisei gave his reply, the lock-on warning sound rings out in the previously quiet cockpit. ¡°She¡¯s coming huh!¡± A red beam cut through the darkness of space. That beam which was aimed straight toward the cockpit of the [Gradius-kai] was then deflected away by the photon saber. ¡°Th, That woman! She aimed straight at the cockpit after she said all that!¡± ¡°I see, trust¡ªhuh. I¡¯m facing a good enemy today¡­..!¡± While ignoring the angry Schleer, Kisei mutters to himself. He then accelerated his striker at full power and the digital tachometer at the console immediately raced to the red zone. At the same time, the [Ortho Kratzer] also accelerated. The distance between them gradually shortened. As they accelerated toward each other, the [Ortho Kratzer] continued firing its red blaster beam toward the [Gradius-kai], and each time Kisei ward the beam off using the photon saber. Eventually, when Kisei reached the distance where the gold engraving was visible to him, the [Ortho Kratzer] stopped its advance. ¡°Kuh¡­.so that¡¯s her plan after all.¡± Schleer grits her teeth. The [Ortho Kratzer] is keeping its distance while barraging them with its blaster. Naturally, Kisei also tries to close that distance but the difference between the accelerating ability of their strikers is clear. With only the minimal output from the [Ortho Kratzer]¡¯s thruster, the distance that the [Gradius-kai] managed to bridge immediately widened again. ¡°Surely you are not going to say that this is unfair, correct? The performance of our strikers is also a part of combat after all!¡± The muzzle installed at the base of the [Ortho Kratzer]¡¯s lance flashes red and a blaster beam is fired toward Kisei. While repelling the incoming beam, Kisei replies. ¡°Of course, I am not going to call it unfair but¡­¡­the only things a pilot can rely on in the end are only skills and the pilot¡¯s will!¡± Kisei fired the grenade launcher, sending a large anti-ship missile toward the [Ortho Kratzer]. However, compared to the beam, its speed is too slow to hit anything. ¡°That¡¯s not going to work!¡± Naturally, Valentina simply took an evasive maneuver. However, the missile was timed and it detonated itself just before it reached the [Ortho Kratzer], creating a huge fireball in front of Valentina. At the same time, Kisei throws away the grenade launcher and accelerates at full speed. ¡°Trying to blind me? But when you abandoned your only means of long-range attack, the victory is already mine!¡± Valentina fired another shot of blaster beam and flew backward with a grin on her face. Even if she loses sight of the [Gradius-kai] for a moment, that is no problem to her. As long as she can maintain the distance, the victory will be hers eventually. ¡°GUh¡­¡­.only 10 percent of the propellant¡¯s left! Can we really win this!?¡± ¡°Of course!¡± Kisei deflected the beam toward the [Ortho Kratzer] and Valentina easily avoided it. ¡°That¡¯s a scary technique but if you know it¡¯s coming then there¡¯s a lot of ways to avoid it!¡± Further deepening her smile, Valentina pressed the button on her control stick. ¡°Besides! Even if you can deflect a few blaster beams, there¡¯s no way you can deflect all these!¡± The container-shaped object mounted on the back of the [Ortho Kratzer] split opened and a large number of micro-missiles were launched from the inside. The hornet-like missiles all rush toward the [Gradius-kai] at the same time. ¡°It¡¯s just Proximity Fuze, just sit back and accept your defeat!¡± These micro-missiles only contain a small amount of explosive charge. If they don¡¯t land a direct hit, the cockpit should be relatively safe. That being said, Kisei is not planning to give up. ¡°She came up with a countermeasure for me after a single battle huh¡­.!¡± Kisei mutters so as his mouth curves into a smile. If he can not block them with the photon saber, then he just has to avoid them all. Kisei accelerated at full speed¡­¡­toward the horde of missiles! ¡°WHAT!?¡± ¡°WAAAAAA!?¡± The two princesses screamed in surprise. However, Kisei smiled and accelerated even further. ¡°Ugh¡­..!¡± The distance between him and the missiles was closed in an instant. As a result, the missiles couldn¡¯t fully accelerate. When Kisei advanced his striker past them, most of the missiles could no longer track him and were left behind by the [Gradius-kai]. These missiles were designed to make sharp turns for tracking purposes but they are still small-sized missiles. All of their propellants would be exhausted if they had to perform such a U-turn. ¡°You are good! But¡ª¨C!¡± But it is still unavoidable for Kisei to take some hits. With the proximity fuzes detonation, several small explosions broke out around the [Gradius-kai]. ¡°It¡¯s my win.¡± Convinced of her victory when she saw the [Gradius-kai] emerging from the explosion, Valentina raised her voice. The [Gradius-kai] was in tatter with Its head and several parts of its body completely blown away. It is no longer fit for battle. However¡ª¨C ¡°No.¡± In the cockpit of the [Gradius-kai], Kisei pulled the trigger with a satisfying smile. ¡°It¡¯s my win.¡± ¡°Wha¡­¡­¡± Before Valentina could finish her sentence, a shock shook the [Ortho Kratzer]. ¡°Ugh¡­.what!? Damn it!¡± After enduring the intense tremor inside her cockpit, Valentina looks at the console monitor, her earlier confidence disappeared from her expression. What was displayed on the monitor was the damage report screen of her striker dyed in bright red and a single merciless sentence. [Complete lower body loss]. ¡°Impossible. How¡­..¡± As far as she knows, the [Gradius-kai] did nothing. She looked around to see if any other striker had ambushed her but there was no one around at all. Instead, Valentina spotted something floating in the empty space. ¡°The grenade launcher!?¡± Yes, it was the anti-ship grenade launcher that Kisei threw away. ¡°He activated it remotely!? That¡¯s impossible.¡± Anti-ship grenade launcher¡¯s ammunition indeed possesses a guiding system. However, since it was designed to hit a large target like warships, the guidance system installed was only a simple one. Hitting a small target like a striker with it is extremely difficult. Moreover, since it was fired remotely from the striker, precise aiming with it should be impossible. ¡°You guided me to its range using your striker as a decoy¡­¡­¡± ¡°Correct.¡± Valentina weakly let out a sigh at Kisei who casually replied to her. She then let go of the control sticks. ¡°It¡¯s my complete defeat.¡± The [Ortho Kratzer] has lost everything from its waist down, and its main engine was shut down in an emergency. It can no longer continue the battle in this state. ¡°Your mistake was when you stopped moving when the battle was still not decided yet. If you moved earlier¡­¡­I might have accidentally got the cockpit within the explosion range too.¡± Thanks to the image guidance system, it was possible for Kisei to manually guide the missile to some extent. That being said, he will not be able to aim that well against a moving target. ¡°I see. It seems that I am still green huh.¡± Valentina said with a self-deprecating smile. ¡°But your tactics and the decision you made were all superb.¡± Saying so, Kisei exhales. It was a close call for him as well. However, his expression still looks happy for some reason. ¡°The next time we meet, I¡¯m sure that you will bring along an even tougher partner. I¡¯m going to look forward to that.¡± Instead of sounding ironic, his tone was genuine. Hearing that, a bitter smile leaked from Valentina. ¡°Well then, my fuel is almost gone as well, it¡¯s about time I take my leave.¡± Saying so, Kisei cut off the communication and flew away in his tattered striker. ¡°¡­¡­the wicked start that once you laid eyes on it in the battle, you will definitely fall, huh.¡± Being left alone in her cockpit, Valentina¡¯s eyes fixed toward the direction where Kisei just left. ¡°I see. Certainly¡­¡­¡­.it seems that I did fall.¡± As she whispered to herself, her cheeks were dyed bright red. CH 10 Battlecruiser Radiant ¡°They are finally here huh¡­¡­.¡± 3 hours after the enemy fleet withdrew. Schleer was still inside the cockpit of the [Gradius-kai] which is currently floating in the low orbit of Besaria Prime. Originally, Kisei planned to land them back on the surface but Schleer said that she doesn¡¯t want to risk a reentry inside a tattered striker so they decided to wait for the 3rd Fleet in orbit. ¡°That is the flagship of my 3rd Fleet, the Radiant.¡± ¡°Haa, an Inaba-class battlecruiser is it. I never thought that there would still be a country that still has one in active service.¡± In front of the [Gradius-kai] is a broadside of a space warship. It has a similar shape to the old navy ship on earth with 3 pairs of large blaster cannons on its deck. Its pure white paint is also shining brightly due to the reflected light from Besaria Prime. Its hull seemed to be well maintained but it has clearly aged. And it is supposed to be. After all, it has already been 50 years since a name ship of this class was first commissioned. [TLN: a name ship/ lead ship is the first of its class that was constructed.] ¡°W, we have been upgrading and refurbishing him. He should still have plenty enough power you know.¡± ¡°Like a veteran soldier, right? I do like this kind of thing actually.¡± As Kisei smiled at the battlecruiser, communication came through from the Radiant. ¡°Your Highness, thank you for your work. The boarding permission has been granted. Please enter through the rear deck.¡± ¡°This is Schleer, affirmative.¡± Originally that communication should have been directed to Kisei as he is the pilot but since he has a superior onboard, it¡¯s natural for them to address her first. Schleer tapped on Kisei¡¯s shoulder to say that she is sorry about that and urged him to enter the deck. ¡°You must have been tired after that battle right? They must have already prepared a room for you on board. Let¡¯s go.¡± ¡°Aye, aye.¡± Acknowledging so, Kisei ignited the thrusters of the [Gradius-kai]. After going through the landing sequence while receiving the instructions from the Radiant¡¯s operator with fluid motion, they landed on a strong supporting net woven from nanotubes inside the deck. Just like that, they proceeded to the hangar according to the instructions. ¡°Hmm, this is quite a nice hangar isn¡¯t it.¡± Because it was an old ship, Kisei thought that its hangar would be a cluttered outdated one but the upgrades and refurbishment made it look as modern and spacious as one on a current-generation capital ship. Looking around, Kisei sees more than ten [Claymores], the main striker model used by the Calencia empire along with a few strikers with which he is not familiar with lined up inside. ¡°Heave ho.¡± After the [Gradius-kai] was fixed on the maintenance hangar. Several robot arms extend out to restrain it in place and a maintenance crane automatically aligns itself with the cockpit hatch. ¡°I-con, Disconnected. Phase Transition Turbine, locked. Engine misfire detected. Initiating System Shutdown sequence. Good work, Pilot. Goodbye.¡± The AI gave its report and all the instruments and monitors went black. ¡°Ahh, that was really tiring. I never thought that I would have to fight a whole fleet as soon as I arrived.¡± After leaving the cockpit, Kisei stretched and looked around. Pilots, mechanics, and various kinds of crew members are gathering around the [Gradius-kai] while whispering something among themselves. ¡°I¡¯m sorry. I didn¡¯t expect the enemy to show up as well.¡± When they saw Schleer come out of the cockpit with a bitter smile, the whispers intensified. [A man and a woman alone in that small cockpit!?], [How enviable!?], [The princess is a predator¡­¡­], such words can be heard from all around us. ¡°Ahem.¡± After a light cough, Schleer pressed the switch on the crane¡¯s basket¡¯s control panel. The basket descended accompanied by a dull noise of its motor and reached the floor. A woman in a high-class officer uniform then rushed to Schleer and whispered something into her ears. After thinking for a few seconds, Schleer also said something to the woman. After that secretive conversation continued for around 30 seconds, Schleer finally turned back to Kisei. ¡°I see, I understand. Kisei-san, it appears that I have some business to attend to. My apologies but I am unable to escort you any further than this.¡± ¡°Haa.¡± ¡°I have prepared a room for you. One of my subordinates will guide you there so please rest up for today.¡± Schleer glanced at a young female soldier and she immediately stepped up and saluted him. Kisei returns the salute in kind and the cheeks of the girl, who was all stiff due to the tension, immediately got dyed in red. ¡°We will also deliver meals to your room. Please, PLEASE! Stay in your room and do not walk around outside. I do not believe that I have vulgar soldiers under my command but we still have to be careful.¡± ¡°I do want to take a walk around though.¡± ¡°You can¡¯t!¡± ¡°I can¡¯t huh¡­¡­¡± There are more than a hundred starving beasts on board. Leaving such a good-looking male mercenary to wander around alone in such a place may cause some irreparable damage to said mercenary himself. Thinking so, Schleer grabbed Kisei¡¯s arms and strongly insisted on her request. ¡°Please.¡± ¡°I understand.¡± ¡°Good.¡± After nodding to him with a smile, Schleer left with the senior officer. Left behind, the soldier who was assigned to be his guide approached him with a robot-like movement. ¡°P, P, Please! Allow me to guide your way!¡± ¡°Thank yo¨Cu.¡± After Kisei replied with a cheerful voice, the girl repeatedly nodded and tried to lead the way with stiff movements. However, someone stopped them before he could take another step. ¡°Wait.¡± It was a girl with a black ponytail. She is wearing a yellow pilot suit with a small lieutenant insignia on the chest area. Her scarlet-colored eyes glare intensely at Kisei. ¡°It¡¯s you huh? The fool of a man who¡¯s playing at being a pilot.¡± CH 11 Kisei, got picked a fight with ¡°It¡¯s you huh? The fool of a man who¡¯s playing at being a pilot.¡± ¡°That¡¯s right.¡± Kisei proudly answered the ponytail girl whose intention was clearly to pick a fight with him. Seeing that, blood drained off the guide girl¡¯s face as she stepped forward to protect Kisei. ¡°Lieutenant Makishima!¡± ¡°Makishima?¡± That¡¯s a Japanese name. Kisei thought as he raised his eyebrows. The girl called Makishima has a pair of beast ears which is the characteristic of a Vuld. No matter how he looks at her, she doesn¡¯t seem to be a Terran at all. ¡°Perhaps, one of your parents is a Terran?¡± ¡°Yeah? My grandfather was certainly a Terran. What of it?¡± A Terran is capable of procreating with a Vuld. However, what¡¯s terrifying about this is that the child born from such a couple will come out as a pure Vuld. For this reason, some Terrans even degradingly refer to the Vuldes as a race of human-like orcs. ¡°HoHou. I¡¯m glad to meet someone who shares the same roots as me despite being so far from earth. I¡¯m Hokuto Kisei, nice to meet you!¡± Kisei stepped past the guide girl, forcibly grabbed Makishima¡¯s hand, and shook it. ¡°U, Uh. I¡¯m Makishima Saki¡­¡­THAT¡¯S NOT IT! Don¡¯t touch me!¡± The girl who introduced her name as Saki hurriedly pulled her hand back and rubbed it on her pilot suit. Her face is also bright red like a boiled octopus. That being said, Kisei continues to speak to her while ignoring all that. ¡°By the way, I am a little curious but, how is your grandfather doing now?¡± ¡°He¡¯s been dead a long time ago! Even before my mother was born!¡± ¡°Seriously¡­¡­¡± Her answer was as he expected. Considering the timing, he must have died during the deed. While his face went blue from the idea of having a relationship with a Vuld woman, Kisei prays for Saki¡¯s grandfather inside his heart. No matter how attractive they are, he must never allow any Vuldes to have their way with his body. ¡°More importantly! Piloting a striker is women¡¯s territory. There¡¯s no place for a fragile man like you! Do you get that!¡± ¡°Lieutenant! The decision to employ Hokuto-san came directly from Her Highness herself! You are overstepping your bounds by disagreeing with her decision!¡± ¡°A desk jockey like you has no say in this! This is between someone who works in the field!¡± When Saki shouted at her, the guide girl quivered. ¡°Even if you say that, I don¡¯t know how to make a living besides being a pilot though.¡± ¡°Haa? You are a man so you can just ask a girl to support you right.¡± In Vuld society, that is the norm. Due to the super-biased birth rate of males to females of 10:1, most men would just get married off as soon as they reach a certain age. Except for some of their upper classes, a man is usually shared among sisters. On their world, no man is supposed to work. Furthermore, the appearance of male Vuldes is not much different from that of Terran women except that they are physically stronger. That may appear like a happy harem life but Kisei has heard from his friend who is a Vuld man, that married life is actually harsh for them. ¡°My dad left me with a load of debt and disappeared off somewhere, my mother is dying from her heart condition. My elder sister suddenly came back home one day with a supposed incurable disease and the treatment cost was just ridiculously high! I am the only one who can support them right.¡± For those who lived in such a society, even if he explains how a Terran society work, they would not understand. Kisei sighed as he talked about his personal details. ¡°Oh, Ohh¡­..th, that must be hard on you¡­¡­..¡± Saki, who appears to be a good person deep down, completely toned down her aggressiveness and looks at Kisei with sympathetic eyes. ¡°Well, my sister has completely healed about half a year ago so she left home and ended up marrying a handsome guy of the same age though.¡± ¡°Wha¡­..there are things that a person should and shouldn¡¯t do right! If your sister is that terrible then you should just cut ties with her already!¡± If you flipped it over and looked at it from a Terran¡¯s sensibility, it would be like a guy coming home to rely on his little sister to support him and abandon her once he¡¯s all cured up to find his own happiness, leaving his sister to deal with the debt alone. Saki¡¯s anger is completely justified. ¡°I do think that all Riajuu should just go ahead and explode but there¡¯s no need to take it that far you know! Riajuu should all explode though!¡± (TLN: Riajuus is a type of people that for some reason think that Valentine day is a good thing) That being said, as someone who enjoys being a pilot very much except the part where his distrust toward the opposite sex is gradually growing stronger and stronger every day, Kisei can not refute her words. ¡°No, but¡­¡­that¡¯s not it! I understand why you became a pilot but it doesn¡¯t mean that I am willing to recognize y¡ª¡± ¡°Ah, that¡¯s right, pilot! Makishima-san is also a pilot right?¡± Saki is currently wearing a yellow pilot suit. As per standard, hers also has a suggestive design that reveals her slender figure. ¡°That¡¯s right. So what¡± ¡°As I thought. Moreover, you are quite capable too, aren¡¯t you? I can tell from the air around you.¡± ¡°Well, yeah.¡± Saki shyly scratched her cheek. She also looks away and her mouth curled up a little. ¡°It wouldn¡¯t be an exaggeration to say that you are the ace of this fleet, no your country right.¡± ¡°While being a commoner, Lt. Makishima¡¯s skills are good enough that she received her own Zenith-type. But as you can see, her personality is kind of difficult¡­¡­.¡± Said the guide girl who has been excluded from the conversation until now. Convinced, Kisei nodded and returned his gaze to Saki. The right to pilot a Zenith-type is usually reserved for high-ranking aristocrats or royalty. Even so, the fact that a commoner like her has gained that same right means that she must have achieved something great. ¡°You are piloting a Zenith? That¡¯s amazing. What kind of striker is it?¡± ¡°Haa? Seriously, there¡¯s no helping it¡­¡­if you want to know that much then I will show you.¡± When Kisei asked while taking a step closer to her, Saki replied with a loose smile. It appears that her previous aggressiveness has disappeared off somewhere. After he glanced at the guide girl and gave her a light bow, Kisei followed Saki to her striker. ¡°This is the ZX-95 [Dainsleif]. Amazing right.¡± The striker that Saki pointed at was a smart-looking one painted in bright chrome yellow. Overall, it looks pretty slender but its joints seem to be heavily armored. Furthermore, there¡¯s a huge Japanese sword-looking armament stored inside a strange mechanized scabbard on its waist. ¡°Its name is Dainsleif and its main weapon is a katana huh¡­¡­¡± It seems that the maker is fully pushing his conception of what¡¯s cool to the Vuldes who are not familiar with Earth¡¯s legends huh. Kisei couldn¡¯t help but smile as he thought so. ¡°It¡¯s quite funky isn¡¯t it.¡± ¡°Right? You do understand huh.¡± ¡°Obviously.¡± Kisei gazes at the katana inside the strange scabbard while repeatedly nodding at the design choice as he replies to Saki. ¡°Ah, it¡¯s a linear ejection mechanism huh?¡± ¡°Those are good eyes you have there. That¡¯s right, the scabbard is capable of electromagnetically accelerating the draw! With this scabbard, you can perform an Iai slash at extreme speed! It¡¯s kind of like a special move.¡± ¡°Iai! So cool. This striker is made of (a man¡¯s) dreams isn¡¯t it.¡± As Kisei said that with his eyes gleaming, Saki nodded with a smug expression. ¡°You do understand after all. Also, the thing attached on the arm is¡­¡­.¡± Saki begins to narrate the specs of her striker with no prompt from Kisei. Kisei, who is in a good mood from seeing a cool striker, also keeps listening while nodding in response. The hostility from the beginning of their conversation seems to have completely disappeared. CH 12 The Crazy Princess 3 days have passed since Kisei boarded the [Radiant]. The Nored side showed no sign of movement and he had not been ordered to sortie during that time. Moreover, since Schleer has ordered him not to leave his room, he couldn¡¯t even go for a walk outside. The room given to Ksei was a private room for high-ranking officers. Not only does it come equipped with a personal bathroom, but it also has a kitchen installed. During the past 3 days, they have been regularly bringing meals to his room so it felt practically like a house arrest. ¡°Still, it seems that they are quite considerate given that they put this giant screen here¡­¡­¡± In the past three days, Kisei has been playing video games with his mobile terminal connected to the giant screen on the wall. It¡¯s a very retro pixel RPG so the game screen looks kinda ugly due to the unnecessarily high resolution. ¡°Hmmm¡­¡­¡± Although he has something to kill time with, he was already tired of lazing around in this windowless room. After thinking about it for a while, Kisei saved his progress and disconnected his terminal from the gigantic screen. ¡°It should be fine if I sneak out for a bit right¡­¡­..¡± Grabbing his flight jacket off the hanger, Kisei tried to leave the room. ¡°Whoa!¡± However, the moment the door slid open, Schleer was there in her military uniform. Kisei jumped up in surprise and fell on his butt. ¡°Ki, Kisei-san, are you okay?¡± Schleer, who seems to be surprised by that herself, reached out to Kisei with cold sweat on her forehead. ¡°Y, Yes, I¡¯m fine.¡± Kisei who managed to stand up retreated backward with a vague smile. Acting as if nothing is out of the ordinary, he threw his flight jacket on the luxurious bed and asked Schleer what she¡¯s doing here. ¡°So, what kind of business do you have with me today?¡± ¡°Umm, Just now, weren¡¯t you trying to leave the room?¡± ¡°I wonder what you are talking about.¡± ¡°There¡¯s no use trying to hide it now though.¡± ¡°I¡¯ve been under this house arrest for 3 days already. I need some fresh air.¡± Since it seems impossible to fool her, Kisei quickly shifted the blame to Schleer. ¡°I, I do think that it is also my fault but¡­¡­¡­¡± ¡®There¡¯s no other choice but to do this in order to protect you¡¯, Schleer continued with an apologetic look. ¡°But my cup noodle supply is about to run out you know! If I can go out then I should be able to buy a few from the stores here right!¡± Kisei¡¯s eyes pointed at his carry case which was delivered to him here from the surface. It appears that the contents of his carry case were cup noodles. ¡°C, Cup noodles? The meals I had my subordinates brought you were supposed to be the kind that is reserved for aristocrats though!?¡± ¡°This and that is a different matter. Even if I was served some luxurious meals, I still want to eat what I want.¡± ¡°Yes¡­..?¡± Schleer has a puzzled expression on her face. To be honest, if he has a specific request, he should have told it to her staff here. ¡°What, do you hate cup noodles?¡± ¡°N, No, I¡¯ve never eaten one before but I do know about them¡­¡­.¡± ¡°That¡¯s no good at all. You have to experience it at least once. Come on in please.¡± Kisei grabbed Schleer¡¯s arm and dragged her into the room. Flustered by the sudden development, Schleer followed inside with little to no resistance while going ¡°Awawawawa¡±. ¡°A, A, A man¡¯s room! My heart isn¡¯t ready for this! It smells nice though!¡± ¡°Can you please not say something like that, it hurts my feelings! I do take a shower every day you know, wait, DON¡¯T JUST WALTZ INTO THE BATHROOM!¡± ¡°Sh, Shower!? Did you just say shower!? That¡¯s no good, a man shouldn¡¯t say something shameful like that!¡± ¡°It¡¯s your brain that¡¯s shameful for linking a shower to that kind of stuff alright.¡± ¡°Th, th, th, th, there¡¯s no helping it right!? This is the first time I got invited into a man¡¯s room you know!!¡± Seeing her getting all excited, Kisei let go of her arm and took a step back with a small yelp. ¡°P, please calm down¡­.take a deep breath, Deep Breath!¡± ¡°Suu¡ª¡± ¡°Now let it out!¡± ¡°Haa¨Ca¡± ¡°Did you manage to calm down?¡± ¡°I¡¯m even more excited now.¡± ¡°WHY!¡± From a Terran¡¯s perspective, it¡¯s like inviting a virgin guy into a room where a beautiful girl has been spending her time alone inside for 3 days. There¡¯s no way that she can stay calm. Moreover, it is said that Vuld women¡¯s sexual desire is even stronger than that of middle or even high schoolers on earth. It was Kisei¡¯s mistake for dragging her inside his room without considering that first. ¡°No, seriously, I can¡¯t¡­¡­.Suu Haa Suu Haa¡­¡­¡± ¡°You should stop that before you hyperventilate yourself. Rather, just stop.¡± ¡°A little more¡­¡­just a little more¡­¡­.Suu Haa Suu Haa, Uu, I¡¯m getting dizzy.¡± ¡°What a coincidence, me too.¡± This shameful behavior of his employer made Kisei hold his head. The face of Schleer, who is totally hyperventilating at this point, is completely red. It would be better if she can calm down soon. ¡°Anyway, please sit down¡­..no, I think that you should lay down instead. I¡¯m sorry that it¡¯s used but please lie down on my bed for the time being.¡± ¡°I¡¯m sorry¡­¡­.¡± Schleer powerlessly lay down on the bed. A scene where a white-haired girl weakly lying down on a luxurious bed is supposed to be rather lewd but with her shameful display earlier, there¡¯s not even a speck of ulterior motive in Kisei¡¯s mind. ¡°Seriously¡­¡­.¡± After around 10 minutes, Schleer had settled down and Kisei could finally let out a sigh of relief. ¡°I can¡¯t look you in the eyes anymore¡­¡­.¡± Muttered Schleer in a muffled voice as embarrassment took over and she buried her face on the pillow. ¡°Well, it was also my fault for carelessly dragging you inside¡­¡­.I will pretend that nothing happened this time¡­..¡± ¡°Thank you very much¡­..Ah, also.¡± ¡°Also?¡± ¡°Can we switch rooms later¡­¡­?¡± Seriously, she hasn¡¯t learned anything at all. Looking closely at her now, it seems that rather than being too embarrassed to face him, she is enjoying herself with the lingering smell on the pillow ¡°Your parents will cry if they see you like this you know.¡± ¡°Uuu¡­¡­¡± Hearing that, Schleer quickly got up from the bed, albeit still giving a look of regret at the pillow. ¡°So¡­¡­what do you want from me in the first place?¡± With his will to educate her about the cup noodles completely evaporated, Kisei asked her that question with half-opened eyes. ¡°Ah, that¡¯s right¡­¡­..I came to see you because the striker for Kisei-san¡¯s personal use was finally finished.¡± ¡°Eh, Really!?¡± Hearing that, Kisei¡¯s excitement which dropped considerably due to the earlier display immediately rose to the max. CH 13 Caliburn-Revive ¡°This is the ZX-X100, [Caliburn-Revive].¡± After they left Kisei¡¯s room, the two headed to the hangar and Schleer introduced the striker with a proud expression as though her earlier shameful behaviors never happened. ¡°Originally, it was an unarmed prototype of the [Excalibur] but I assigned the spare parts from the [Excalibur] to it and had it modified for active combat use.¡± ¡°If it¡¯s a modified unit then it¡¯s kind of similar to the [Gradius-kai] isn¡¯t it?¡± While looking at the place Schleer is pointing at, Kisei gave a few nods. Much like the [Excalibur], there stands a pure white striker. It featured a twin-eye-type main camera and two large blade antennas on its head, giving an impression of a pair of rabbit ears. ¡°It is a medium-weight, general-purpose type striker with no distinctive features but it has high mobility and more than enough payload so it should be able to handle various kinds of missions! Even though we¡¯ve assembled it on the fly here, its specs should be enough to qualify it as a Zenith-type, sir!¡± A young mechanic in work clothes excitedly explained. She looked tired. It appears that she went through a lot of work refurbishing this striker but strangely, her eyes are still gleaming from excitement. ¡°So it¡¯s technically a Zenith-type.¡± ¡°Yes! The higher up at Kawashima said that it is an affordable low-priced model but it has been remodeled by the best mechanics of our Engineering Department! The Nored¡¯s Zenith can¡¯t hold a candle to it!¡± ¡°What the heck is an affordable Zenith¡­¡­.¡± A Zenith-type striker is supposed to be the one-off flagship model that went all in for high-specs while disregarding the costs. You can¡¯t possibly describe such a thing as affordable even by mistake. ¡°P, Please don¡¯t mind that!¡± In fact, it should be extremely difficult for a small to medium-sized country to afford a Zenith-type. Still, such countries would indeed acquire one or two Zenith-type units for appearance¡¯s sake. That being said, it¡¯s not something that you should share with your pilots so Schleer forcibly interrupted the conversation. ¡°What about the weapons?¡± ¡°It has a 12.7mm twin machine gun installed on the head, two photon sabers sheathed inside the chest compartments, and two wire guns on its waist, sir¡± ¡°Installing a machine gun on the head is a good idea. What about the external loads?¡± ¡°The main armament is a blaster rifle. It¡¯s a new model with 8.5Mw (Megawatts) output. A PM-A4 particle magazine should give you 20 rounds. You can also use the old PW-3C magazine with it but it should give you only about 12 shots before it runs out of power.¡± ¡°I see. What else?¡± ¡°An anti-ship grenade launcher and a pile bunker mounted on the left arm as per your request, sir. That should be it but there is still room in the payload so we can add more if you want.¡± ¡°No excess or deficiency, a balanced machine. This is good.¡± Except for the pile bunker, it only has the basic equipment of a frontline striker. Although it doesn¡¯t possess any specialized high-powered armament, it is plenty enough for Kisei to work with. ¡°You can take it out for a test drive right now, you know. If you¡¯d like that is.¡± ¡°Of course, I planned to do that from the start.¡± The [Radiant] is currently orbiting the high orbit of Besaria Prime. There is no civilian facility nearby. After Schleer told him that it is okay to test drive the [Caliburn-Revive] around the ship, he immediately changed into his pilot suit. After riding a cargo lift up to the cockpit, he found that the cockpit is a single-seat type which is a little wider than that of the [Gradius-kai]. After seating himself on the viscoelastic seat, Kisei then operates the console to boot up the striker. The OS of the [Caliburn-Revive] is quite different from [Gradius-kai]¡¯s but after piloting so many kinds of strikers as a mercenary, Kisei can operate it without any problem. [[Hello, Pilot. Now initiating boot sequence.]] ¡°Oh, this is unusual.¡± The voice of the AI this time was a calming voice of a woman. The default voices for most strikers¡¯ AI are usually male so Kisei was surprised. ¡°I heard that this one is quite popular inside the Terran Army so I used my own money to buy that voice pack for you, sir.¡± ¡°Th, Thank you very much.¡± The voice of the earlier mechanic came from the communication device he put on his ear. Actually, Kisei doesn¡¯t mind whether it¡¯s a male or female voice but since she has gone an extra mile for him, his only logical response was to express his gratitude. While he was doing that, the [Caliburn-Revive] undergoes its booting sequence. The engine went through its ignition process and the monitors lit up. The system check also shows no sign of problems. Then, he detached the striker from the maintenance bay and took a step forward after confirming that there¡¯s no one underneath. ¡°How is it, sir?¡± ¡°No problem so far. The I-con(TLN: The Bidirectional Brain-Machine Interface) matching also felt good.¡± ¡°Everything seems to be going alright, correct? Then please proceed to the launch deck. Since it is only nearby, I think that there is no need to use the catapult.¡± ¡°Aye, Aye.¡± Following Schleer¡¯s instructions, Kisei heads through the airlock to the launch deck. The launch deck here is a semi-open-air deck with Linear Catapult installed. It is now mostly empty as the crews are currently at their stations. So, without having to worry about his surroundings, Kisei started the thrusters and flew into space. (TLN: A Linear Catapult is an electromagnetic aircraft launch system.) ¡°Alright.¡± Using the foot pedal, Kisei accelerates the striker. Turning, somersaulting, emergency braking, he tried out all kinds of movements one by one. Naturally, both its mobility and motility are much superior to the [Gradius-kai]. ¡°This is an excellent work. The weight balance feels really good, it¡¯s so perfect that I can¡¯t even tell that this was originally an unarmed prototype you know.¡± ¡°Really. ALRIGHT!! It was worth staying up all night for three days straight! Hey, he said that it¡¯s perfect! It¡¯s time to celebrate, guys!¡± Rather than Kisei, the second part of her words was probably directed at her staff. Still, she did say something scary. Apparently, the mechanics of the maintenance crew had been working nonstop to complete this striker. With cold sweat starting to accumulate on his back, Kisei began to think about how to thank them later. ¡°Now then, let¡¯s perform the combat test. You wouldn¡¯t be able to get the real feel of it until you try it out in an actual battle after all.¡± ¡°Ahh, so that¡¯s why the weapons were all set to training specs.¡± The muzzle of the blaster rifle had an attachment for training-use on it. Even if he fires it now, the only thing that will come out would be a harmless laser for registering hits on his training partner. It appears that the machine gun and grenade launcher are loaded with training ammunition as well. ¡°Please allow this Schleer to be your partner today.¡± ¡°Come to think of it, you did have a personalized pilot suit huh¡­¡­.¡± Kisei remembers seeing her wearing it the other day. However, in the end, she never had a chance to grab the control stick so he doesn¡¯t know how capable she is. ¡°Hmm¡­¡­this might sound presumptuous to a pilot of Kisei-san¡¯s caliber but I am actually quite confident in my skills. If I had my personal striker with me that day, I¡¯d take down that shameless woman from Nored myself¡­¡­!¡± ¡°Rea-lly¡± ¡°Yes. I will be taking off shortly. Please wait a¡ª¡­..¡± While she was saying that, someone suddenly interrupted their conversation. ¡°WAIT!¡± At the same time, a striker flies out from the launch deck of the [Radiant]. The striker was a familiar yellow one, it¡¯s Makishima Saki¡¯s [Dainsleif]. With her face projected on the small communication monitor, Saki declares with a confident smile on her face. ¡°I will make it clear here who¡¯s the best pilot on this ship.¡± ¡°Lt. Makishima! What are you doing!¡± Schleer raised her voice in protest but Kisei only smiled at Saki. ¡°There¡¯s no problem right. You can take turns. Let¡¯s do this.¡± ¡°The Engineering Department wants more combat data as well. Please do this! Your Highness!¡± ¡°¡­¡­.Argh!¡± Schleer could do nothing but let out a frustrated sigh. CH 14 The Difference in Ability ¡°Heh, that¡¯s how I like it! Let¡¯s go, [Dainsleif]! Let¡¯s show him that a man has no place being a pilot!¡± The moment she shouted so, the [Dainsleif] accelerated toward the [Caliburn-Revive]. Thruster flames can also be seen from the 8 thrusters of the cloak-like armor-type equipment covering the unit¡¯s body. Totally this one It is probably the type of armament that provides both mobility and defense to the unit. ¡°Right away huh. Come at me!¡± Although the words that were thrown at him could be described as nothing but an insult, what was visible on Kisei¡¯s face was not anger but joy. He immediately readied the blaster rifle and opened fire. Although the beam is not actually fired from the rifle, the beam of light was CG-generated on both of their monitors by the training program. ¡°WOAH, without a lock-on!?¡± There was no lock-on warning sound blaring inside the cockpit of the [Dainsleif]. Without using the Active Sensor, Kisei has fired the rifle manually using only the passive sensor. Despite this, his aim was no less accurate. The CG-generated beam homed in toward the abdomen of the [Dainsleif]. However¡­¡­. ¡°But that won¡¯t work on me!¡± The beam was repelled by the cloak-like armor and the training program judged that the beam doesn¡¯t have enough power to penetrate it. ¡°What a child¡¯s play, HAH!¡± The [Dainsleif] accelerated at extreme speed and instantly closed the distance. Its hand is on the katana grip on its waist. ¡°EAT THIS! ELEC¡ª¡ª¡± ¡°That¡¯s my line! Take this!¡± Just before the katana was unleashed using the linear ejection mechanism of the scabbard, the two machine guns mounted on the head of the [Caliburn-Revive] opened fire and the right hand of the [Dainsleif] was barraged with bullets. ¡°WHA¡­..!¡± The machine guns can only fire small-caliber bullets. Their penetration power is too weak to pierce the front armor. However, it is enough to destroy the delicate manipulators and the training program forcibly disables the [Dainsleif]¡¯s right hand. ¡°Kuh¡­¡­like I will let you!¡± Using that chance, the [Caliburn-Revive] unleashed a kick toward the [Dainsleif]. Saki managed to guard against the kick with the cloak-like armor but the [Caliburn-Revive] kicked off the armor and performed a somersault. The next moment, the muzzle of the anti-ship grenade launcher mounted on the back of the [Caliburn-Revive] was aligned with the [Dainsleif]. ¡°No way!?¡± However, the reality was ruthless. A training missile is launched from the grenade launcher. Saki had no way to avoid it and had to block it with the cloak-like armor. ¡°Guh¡­¡­¡± It¡¯s only a missile designed for training uses. Naturally, there¡¯s no explosion. However, a sentence saying [Unit Lost] is being mercilessly displayed on the monitors inside Saki¡¯s striker. Even with the additional armor, it is impossible for the [Dainsleif] to guard against a high-caliber shell designed for destroying ships. ¡°Y, You gotta be kidding right¡­¡­.¡± It could not be described as anything but a complete defeat. Saki¡¯s hands, which are still holding the control sticks, started to shake. ¡°It¡¯s just a single defeat, don¡¯t be so shocked! This is only an exercise right!¡± Kisei¡¯s voice reaches Saki¡¯s ears. ¡°This is not a real battle. It¡¯s a fight to see if we can understand each other. Am I wrong, Eh!!?¡± ¡°WHAT!? Bring it on then! I¡¯m gonna take you down!!¡± The short-tempered Saki immediately reacted to Kisei¡¯s provocation. With her eyes brimming with motivation, she restarted the training program. ¡°DON¡¯T REGRET THIS LATER OKAY!!¡± Once again, she starts up the thruster and approaches Kisei who had already taken a distance away from her. The [Dainsleif]¡¯s hand grabbed onto the katana grip again. She also did not forget to position the cloak-like armor to cover the hands until the last minute before she unleashes her attack. ¡°I got you this time, ELECTROMAGNETIC SLASH!¡± Accompanied by an electric spark, the silver blade is unsheathed from the scabbard. The slash flashes at a speed comparable to a bullet. Even if Kisei¡¯s striker is a Zenith-type, if it is within the striking range, it would be cut down in a single blow. ¡°No matter how fast it is, it¡¯s no use if you can¡¯t land it!¡± Kisei evaded the blow with minimal movement. The tip of the katana lightly scraped the armor of the [Caliburn-Revive]. ¡°Tsk!¡± Due to its power, the [Dainsleif] has a hard time moving immediately after the katana was electromagnetically ejected. Still, Saki uses the thrusters on the independently movable cloak-like armor to get some distance. However, Kisei did not miss this chance. He approached and inserted the muzzle of his blaster rifle into the gap between the cloak armor then pulled the trigger. ¡°Damn¡­.it!¡± Saki clenched her teeth at the [Unit Lost] message displaying on her monitors and restarted the training program. ¡°At least take out your swords! Are you trying to make a fool of me!?¡± ¡°So you wanted a sword fight? Alright, I will play along!¡± Kisei mounts the blaster rifle on the hardpoint at the [Caliburn-Revive]¡¯s waist and pulls out a photon saber from the chest compartment. ¡°Looking down on me¨C!¡± Saki rushed in with the katana still unsheathed and performs a downward slash from above. In response, Kisei blocked the katana with the photon saber. The metallic and energy blades collided, sending the sparks flying. One is a weapon that utilizes a magnetic field to mold light particles into a shape of a sword, another is a sword that vibrates at high frequency to increase its slashing power. Since both generate a strong magnetic force, they are actually repelling each other. ¡°Quite a power output you have there!¡± It was the [Caliburn-Revive] that was being pushed back. Although it is a newer model, the opponent striker is a unit built to be specialized in close-quarter combat. The [Dainsleif] is a striker that is capable of producing instantaneous power to enhance its body using a high torque motor. Being a general-purpose striker, the [Caliburn-Revive] appears to be losing to that instantaneous power boost. ¡°It¡¯s because you weren¡¯t taking me seriously, you idiot!¡± When the [Caliburn-Revive] lost its posture, Saki immediately launched a follow-up attack. However, Kisei parried it with the photon saber, easily diverting its trajectory. This time, it was the [Dainsleif] that lost its posture. ¡°But you can not win a battle with power alone!¡± Kisei immediately stepped on the pedal and closed the distance. ¡°Guh¡­¡­¡± Saki tried to escape but faster than she could, the tip of the pile bunker mounted on the [Caliburn-Revive]¡¯s hand had already touched the abdomen of the [Dainsleif]. With the words [Unit Lost] displayed in front of her for the third time already, Saki grit her teeth and shouted out. ¡°Damn it, AGAIN!¡± ¡°Fine. I¡¯m going to accompany you!¡± CH 15 Overwhelming ¡°That instant power boost is the greatest perk of your striker! Use it!¡± ¡°YOU¡ª!¡± ¡°That¡¯s your 29th defeat! No matter how fast your striker is, your movements are too straightforward!¡± ¡°Damn it! I will get you next time!¡± ¡°That¡¯s the spirit. You got guts! But it will only end up as your 30th defeat!¡± ¡°Ughh!¡± Schleer tiredly sighed at the conversation which she could not be sure whether it¡¯s a serious or a casual one. It¡¯s been more than 30 minutes since this combat training began but Saki still couldn¡¯t score a victory against Kisei yet. Her defeat comes basically once every minute so now she kind of respects her endurance instead. ¡°Umm, can I have my turn now?¡± ¡°Pl, please wait a little longer, Your Highness! One win, if I can score just one win then I will tag out.¡± ¡°I can not wait for decades you know.¡± Saki¡¯s face cramped at Schleer¡¯s barbed words. As a matter of fact, Saki has already realized the difference in their ability but her high pride is still preventing her from admitting defeat. ¡°Let¡¯s do this together. I still don¡¯t think that we will stand a chance with both of us though.¡± ¡°Two of us against a man!? No way, that¡¯s too cowardly!¡± ¡°Cowardly!? In the face of a powerful enemy, it¡¯s natural to join up with your ally and fight together! It¡¯s the basics of warfare!¡± ¡°Your Highness is telling me to resort to such a manly tactic!?¡± Kisei couldn¡¯t help but smile a little at their bizarre use of the word [manly]. After all, if he gets offended with just this, he wouldn¡¯t be able to work with the Vuldes. Besides, he¡¯s already used to it. ¡°It certainly sounds pathetic for two strong women to gang up against a man¡­¡­.but Kisei-san¡¯s ability is the real deal. Do you still think that he is an opponent that you can beat while worrying about his gender?¡± ¡°Kuh¡­¡­I admit that he¡¯s damn strong but¡­¡­.¡± ¡°Sometimes you must swallow your shame and hone yourself. Moreover, if we cannot get stronger then we will never be able to achieve the true essence of a knight¡­¡­.no, of a woman. Let us think of this as training against a strong opponent and do this together.¡± ¡°¡­¡­..I understand.¡± Unexpectedly, Saki was persuaded by Schleer. It appears that she manages to reflect on a lot of things during her repeated defeats. ¡°Oi, You! I will admit that I am weaker than you for now! I will definitely win someday alright!¡± ¡°Of course! You are not someone that would just give up after a few losses right? You can challenge me again anytime you want.¡± Kisei replied with a grin on his face. His expression made it look like he¡¯s enjoying this. ¡°I apologize for her rudeness, Kisei-san.¡± Schleer connected a private communication channel and apologized to him on Saki¡¯s behalf. Since Saki can be quite rude when it comes to men, she thinks that Kisei might have been offended by her. ¡°Rudeness? No, it was nothing at all. She is a good pilot. I actually like people who never give up like her.¡± Even after losing to him 30 times in a row, her spirit never broke. To Kisei, her guts were worthy of respect. ¡°Besides, even if she has a bad mouth, I think that she¡¯s not the malicious type. She picked a fight with me because I¡¯m a man but¡­¡­.I think that¡¯s because she simply doesn¡¯t want to see someone that she should protect fighting on the battlefield. Anyway, that¡¯s the kind of feeling I got from her.¡± ¡°S, she certainly is that type of person¡­..I¡¯m surprised you understand her so well.¡± Schleer herself has a long relationship with Saki since she is the top ace of her fleet. Both of them have fought together on various battlefields. That¡¯s why Schleer understood her but she was surprised that Kisei managed to understand her even though they practically just met each other. ¡°I¡¯m confident in my intuition after all. Only while I¡¯m inside a striker that is.¡± ¡°Is that so¡­¡­¡± Schleer could only nod to Kisei who replied to her with a strong smile. ¡°Oi, what are you two talking about over there? We are doing a two-on-one right, let¡¯s get started already.¡± Their conversation was interrupted by Saki¡¯s impatient words. ¡°Yeah, yeah¡­¡­..Come to think of it, Your Highness also pilots a Zenith right.¡± Kisei asked as he glanced at Schleer¡¯s striker. It is an indigo heavy-duty striker with a large blaster cannon installed on its shoulder. In its hands is a large heavy-machine gun and there were missile launchers fixed all over its body. This machine probably packed quite a bit of firepower. The information terminal is displaying its name as [Mistilteinn], a name that Kisei does not recognize from the various mass-produced models¡¯ names that he is familiar with. ¡°Well, I¡¯m a princess after all.¡± Schleer proudly replied. Since Saki, a commoner, is piloting a Zenith-type, it wouldn¡¯t do if Princess Schleer herself has to pilot a mass-produced model. There is this norm that a subordinate should not overshadow their superior too. ¡°Two Zenith-type¡­¡­.Hmm¡­¡­well, let¡¯s do this.¡± ¡°Okay. I will show you that my striker is not just for show.¡± Schleer replied with a daring smile. CH 16 Two-on-One, but¡ª A thick green beam flies toward the [Cliburn-Revive]. Although Kisei has the photon saber in hand, he does not use it to deflect the beam and chooses to avoid it instead. ¡°That¡¯s basically a mini artillery cannon huh. I can see that I shouldn¡¯t take it head-on.¡± In the first place, he doesn¡¯t know if the training program would register an insane maneuver like deflecting a blaster beam with a photon saber so he chose to seal his special move in this fight. ¡°I¡¯m going to stop his movement, you perform a hit and run on him.¡± ¡°Roger!¡± Despite her complaints earlier, Saki is obeying Schleer¡¯s commands without any protest and the [Dainsleif] is maintaining the distance where it can immediately close in on the [Caliburn-Revive] using its instantaneous burst. ¡°Even when we managed to put him in check¡­¡­..!¡± Schleer fired the blaster cannon on the [Mistilteinn]¡¯s shoulder again. In response, Kisei casually evaded its trajectory but the direction he evaded to was immediately under fire from the heavy machine gun. A bunch of tracer ammunition ran through the space toward the [Caliburn-Revive] like lightning. ¡°¡­.! As expected!¡± However, Kisei splendidly avoided that as well. His movement was so minimal and fleeting as if he already knew where the bullet would come from. At that moment, Saki greatly accelerated and charged in. ¡°CHESTO!¡± ¡°Like hell I¡¯m taking that!¡± The Electromagnetic Slash was unleashed along with an electric spark. It¡¯s a sword-draw technique with an extreme speed that a normal person should not be able to react to but Kisei simply swings the photon saber and diverted its trajectory. With its blade deflected away, the [Dainsleif] was swung off balance by its own powerful slashing momentum. ¡°I won¡¯t le-¡­¡­..Uu!?¡± Schleer aimed the blaster cannon at Kisei to prevent him from pursuing Saki but at the same moment, he fired three shots of the blaster rifle at her. Schleer manages to avoid the impact but she also loses the chance to provide covering fire for Saki. ¡°Damn you!¡± Using that window, Kisei chases after the [Dainsleif] but Saki operates a device on its left arm and fired a kunai-shaped projectile toward the [Caliburn-Revive] ¡°Hou!¡± Kisei twisted the body of his striker to avoid it but by that time Schleer had already regained her bearings and the heavy-machine gun¡¯s bullets are racing toward the [Caliburn-Revive]. ¡°I¡¯m no good with guns but¡­..it¡¯s not like I can¡¯t use one you know!¡± Saki pulls out a small submachine gun from the [Dainsleif]¡¯s waist and aims it at Kisei with one hand. ¡°Crossfire huh! This is nice, this is real nice!¡± By flooring the pedal, Kisei utilized the thrusters to accelerate at full power and the [Caliburn-Revive] escaped the kill zone with a speed incomparable to that of the [Gradius-kai]. ¡°Ugh¡­..it¡¯s high performance is also something to consider huh.¡± The thrusters were activated at full power for only a brief moment. However, Kisei has a painful expression on his face due to the intense G-force. Compared to the physically stronger Vuldes, the fragile Kisei will have a hard time fully utilizing the ability of his striker. ¡°But¡­¡­!¡± While avoiding the ongoing barrage from the two strikers with the least movement possible, Kisei turned his blaster rifle toward Saki and opened fire. ¡°Heh! Even with your aim, something like that is only a peashooter!¡± His shots were blocked by the cloak-like armor. Since it was designed to provide both movement and defense functions, it can freely be moved to provide cover while keeping the striker¡¯s attack motion uninterrupted. Quite a troublesome piece of equipment to deal with. However, Kisei¡¯s goal is not to shoot down the [Dainsleif]. Even if it¡¯s only for a moment he wanted to stop the attack from her submachinegun. ¡°So you were aiming for me after all.¡± Using that time, Kisei accelerates his striker toward the [Mistilteinn]. At a long distance, Saki¡¯s [Dainsleif] has only a few means of attack. That¡¯s why he thought that he should crush Schleer who has much higher firepower first. ¡°Kuh.¡± Schleer could barely avoid the beams Kisei shot at her. It¡¯s naturally harder to avoid an attack without the locked-on warning from the system. Managing to avoid the green beams, Schleer launched missiles from the two missile pods on both feet of the [Mistilteinn] to retaliate. With 6 missiles from each side, a total of 12 missiles fly toward the [Caliburn-Revive]. ¡°That¡¯s not nearly enough!¡± With the head-mounted machine guns and the blaster rifle, Kisei shot down one missile after another. By the time the missiles reached him, only 4 missiles were left and Kisei casually avoided them. ¡°He shot them down!? Even so!¡± She still has her gun. Schleer readied the heavy-machine gun to launch a follow-up attack but a green blaster beam made an impact on the abdomen of her striker. The training program did not judge that a single shot is enough to take down the [Mistilteinn] but the second and third shots mercilessly landed on the exact same location. ¡°Ugh, it¡¯s my loss¡­¡­¡± Schleer hangs her head at the word [Unit Lost] displaying on her monitors. ¡°Not yet, I¡¯m still here!¡± When Kisei was focusing on shooting down the [Mistilteinn], Saki approached him from the back and unleashed the Electromagnetic Slash at an extreme speed. ¡°I know!¡± However, Kisei made the [Caliburn-Revive] perform a somersault and avoided the blade. The moment the blade missed his striker, Kisei stepped on the pedal and accelerated. With the bullet-like acceleration, the [Caliburn-Revive] closed the distance and stuck the pile bunker to the lower back of the [Dainsleif]. ¡°¡­¡­.Damn it! It¡¯s the same even in a two-on-one!¡± When the training program ceased her striker¡¯s functions, Saki could only curse to herself. CH 17 Reason behind his Strength ¡°How was it? The [Caliburn-Revive].¡± ¡°It felt pretty good. But I prefer the maneuvering system to be more subtle.¡± It¡¯s been about 30 minutes since the mock battle with Saki and Schleer concluded. Currently, Kisei is giving his impressions of the [Caliburn-Revive] to the mechanics at the hangar. ¡°That¡¯s surprising. Our Aces usually prefer that we optimize the striker to perform at peak capacity though.¡± ¡°It¡¯s a little too sensitive for me and I think it would be difficult to handle outside of combat. Even inside combat, I don¡¯t think I will have time to adjust for the minimal differences too.¡± ¡°Is that the case? Well, I will adjust it for you.¡± ¡°Thank you.¡± When Kisei was thanking the mechanic, someone tapped on his shoulder from behind. When he turned around, he found Saki with a towel on her shoulder standing there with a dissatisfied expression. ¡°Oi¡­..are you free after this?¡± ¡°Probably.¡± After looking around, Kise replied. He was sweeping his eyes around for Schleer but she¡¯s nowhere to be found. She probably went off to have a meeting with her staff again. Since she¡¯s a princess, she should be quite busy after all. ¡°Do you have some kind of business with me?¡± ¡°No, Uhh¡­..Uuum.¡± As her reply became vague, Saki turned away from him with her face dyed red. ¡°¡­..I¡¯m a little hungry. Can you guide me to a food vendor here?¡± ¡°Tsk, can¡¯t be helped then. Follow me.¡± Contrary to her words, Saki¡¯s expression as she replied was a bright one. ¡°Man, I¡¯m full. As I thought, Nissin¡¯s miso ramen really is the best.¡± After a short while, they find themselves inside a break room for pilots. Kisei and Saki were sitting facing each other at a small table there. Both of them have already taken off their pilot suits and currently, Saki is wearing her Calencian military uniform while Kisei is in his usual flight jacket. An empty styrofoam cup is placed in front of Kisei. It was the cup noodle that he bought from a vendor here. ¡°¡­¡­that thing, you like it?¡± ¡°I like cup noodles in general you know. Even if you are clumsy in the kitchen like me, you can make a delicious meal if you follow the instructions. This thing is a victory of civilization.¡± ¡°Hmmm.¡± In front of Saki, there¡¯s a big messy pile of vinyl wrapping from the various kinds of bread she was eating. Considering that they are only having a light meal here, the amount is quite a lot. ¡°So, what do you want? You have something you want to ask me right?¡± ¡°Well, it¡¯s not really a big deal though.¡± Saki looks away as she crumples the pile of messy wrapping with her fingers. ¡°It¡¯s just¡­..a little hard for me to ask.¡± ¡°Ok.¡± After staying silent for a while, Saki finally continues. ¡°You, how are you so strong?¡± With a short pause, she continues her question as though she finally made up her mind to ask. ¡°It¡¯s a little¡­..no, it¡¯s pretty weird. I mean, I met a lot of strong guys on the battlefield but, you are just on a different level.¡± Too overwhelming. Too out of standard. Saki did hear about how he defeated a Nored¡¯s Zenith using a modified training striker. However, she thought that was just some nonsense. Now, she knows full-well of Kisei¡¯s prowess so she has no choice but to recognize his strength. ¡°I mean¡­..don¡¯t get angry, okay? I did feel like I was cheating too. Well, to put it simply, it was like a game of rock-paper-scissor for me.¡± Hearing that, Saki doubtfully stared at Kisei. ¡°What, why are you saying it like you cheated. I¡¯m not the kind of woman that would unfairly accuse you of cheating after I lost alright. Still¡­¡­¡± ¡°No, your feeling is not necessarily wrong you know.¡± ¡°Eh.¡± Perhaps finding that unexpected, Saki stared intensely at Kisei. In response, Kisei grins and lightly fidgets his fingers. ¡°In rock-paper-scissors, if you know what your opponent is going to play, your victory is practically guaranteed right?¡± ¡°Well, yeah.¡± But if it could be done then she wouldn¡¯t have a hard time thinking about it like this. That is what her face is saying right now. ¡°What? You are going to say that you are an esper now?¡± ¡°No, no. I¡¯m talking about the I-con system. Your striker also has one right, Makishima-san.¡± (Reminder: the I-con system here is a Bidirectional Brain-Machine Interface) The I-con system is a standard control system that comes equipped on all strikers. It perceives the pilot¡¯s brain waves, interprets them into commands, and sends them to the striker. Conversely, the feedback from the striker also transfers to the pilot¡¯s brain. This technology made the complex task of precisely controlling humanoid weapons possible. ¡°That¡¯s obvious right? What of it?¡± ¡°So, you know that the I-con system receives the thoughts from the pilot¡¯s brain and sends them out as commands right?¡± ¡°Yeah.¡± ¡°So, if you can perceive the brain waves of other pilots, you would be able to tell what they are going to do next right.¡± ¡°Ha?¡± Saki raised her eyebrows. She understands the theory behind it but the idea of pulling such a thing off is just too crazy. The I-con system is technically just a control device. There shouldn¡¯t be such a function included in it. ¡°That¡¯s strange isn¡¯t it. If the I-con picks up the thoughts from your enemy then that should interfere with the control of the striker since it would be treated as a command right.¡± ¡°The deciding factor for the I-con system to interpret the brainwaves as a command or not is the strength of the brain waves. It doesn¡¯t perceive the thoughts as commands from the start. You can read those thoughts no problem.¡± ¡°¡­..is that even possible?¡± ¡°It is. I¡¯ve been doing it.¡± At Kisei¡¯s immediate affirmation, Saki folded her arms and frowned. She could take it as a joke but thinking back on Kisei¡¯s movements in the earlier exercise, it certainly makes sense. There were a lot of times where she could only think that her movements had been completely seen through after all. ¡°¡­¡­I see. So how do I do that too.¡± ¡°It¡¯s not like moving your body so I can¡¯t really explain it. Each person has differences when they synchronize with the I-con system after all. Kisei¡¯s answer was merciless. However, he continued. ¡°But one thing I can advise you on would be to always keep your calm on the battlefield. If you do not have your composure with you, you won¡¯t be able to perceive the weak brain waves after all.¡± Saki has a bitter look on her face when she heard the word ¡®Calm¡¯. ¡°Ugh¡­..I¡¯m the type that always gets heated up in battle. But you are the same right.¡± ¡°Getting heated up during battle is not a problem at all. You should stay as you are, Makishima-san.¡± Kisei answers with a gentle voice. In fact, Kisei thought that the ability to feel the heat of battle is necessary for a pilot. The purpose of his yell and shout during battle was to bring his spirit up after all. ¡°The point is that you keep your soul hot while keeping your heart serene.¡± ¡°That¡¯s a contradiction right.¡± ¡°I guess it is.¡± Kisei smiled and shrugged his shoulders. ¡°Well, in the end, it¡¯s something that I can¡¯t explain with words. It relies on your sense after all.¡± ¡°I guess so.¡± Saki sighs. ¡°Anyway, I understand how ridiculous of a pilot you are now. About what I said earlier¡­..well¡­..I¡¯m sorry.¡± ¡°Don¡¯t worry about it. I¡¯m used to that already.¡± ¡°I guess you are.¡± Said Saki as she bitterly smiled at Kisei. It¡¯s insane to think that there¡¯s a man who is fighting on the battlefield as a striker pilot. Surely, a lot of people must have said the same thing to him many times already. ¡°But as I thought¡­¡­.it¡¯s not good for a man to be on the battlefield. I am certainly weaker than you but I still can¡¯t just accept it.¡± ¡°You don¡¯t like it after all?¡± ¡°Of course. If you get shot down and become a prisoner of war, your fate will be worse than death, you know.¡± ¡°Then it¡¯s fine as long as I win. I¡¯m the strongest after all. Don¡¯t worry.¡± Saki frowned at Kisei¡¯s easy-going attitude and looked around. This break room is reserved for pilots so there aren¡¯t many people around but Kisei is still the only man here. Kisei sticks out like a sore thumb in this place. ¡°There are times where you might get betrayed by your allies. No matter how good you are in a striker, if it comes down to physical strength, a man can still be easily knocked down alright.¡± ¡°Well¡­.that¡¯s true.¡± Remembering how he got preyed on by a group of girls the other day, Kisei could only groan. The strength of average Vuld women surpasses that of even the strongest Terran men. Moreover, since Kisei is physically below average as a Terran male, he can not possibly resist such an advance. ¡°It¡¯s a miracle that you¡¯ve been safe until now, you do know that right.¡± ¡°I used to have a reliable manager after all¡­¡­I left the firm after my last job though¡­¡­¡± ¡°Are you serious?¡± Saki said with her eyes narrowed. From her perspective, Kisei is too defenseless. He won¡¯t survive alone in an army full of women. ¡°¡­.tsk, can¡¯t be helped then. I will protect you.¡± After a while of silence, Saki said that with her face bright red. She¡¯s also diverting her eyes away from him. ¡°This is a special case alright. You are just so defenseless that I can¡¯t leave you alone, that¡¯s all.¡± ¡°Eh, really?¡± In response, Kisei jumped up from his chair. He then holds Saki¡¯s hand and shakes it. ¡°Man, I¡¯m really thankful you know! Makishima-san is a good person after all!¡± With someone to escort him, Schleer should permit him to leave his room. Kisei was overjoyed, thinking that his house arrest had finally come to an end. ¡°Y, Y, Your hand¡­¡­!¡± Saki¡¯s face was dyed crimson and she lost her ability to speak with the sudden development. She tried to say something after that but a loud voice interrupted them before she could. ¡°Oya Oya, Kisei-san! So you¡¯re here. I¡¯ve been looking for you.¡± When Kisei turned to look at the source of the voice, he saw Schleer cheerfully smiling at him. ¡°Oya¡­.Kisei-san, that won¡¯t do right? If you casually touch a woman¡¯s hand like that¡­.there will be some misunderstanding you know.¡± ¡°Misunderstanding?¡± Kisei doesn¡¯t understand what she meant but thinking that it might be rude to suddenly hold someone else¡¯s hand, he lets go of Saki. Saki then gazes regretfully at his hands and gives Schleer a dissatisfied look. ¡°Your Highness, do you have some kind of business with me?¡± ¡°No, not with you.¡± Schleer, who was on the receiving end of her gaze, replied with a smile. However, the same could not be said for her eyes. ¡°We have decided on our strategy so I came to inform you about it, Kisei-san.¡± ¡°Hmm¡­..then may I join too? Since I¡¯m the ace of this fleet, I should have the right to know too right?¡± ¡°Hmph.¡± Schleer calmly nodded in reply. ¡°Alright then, come with us.¡± Perhaps it¡¯s not something that she can talk about in a break room, Schleer turned her heels and walked off leaving the two of them to follow her. CH 18 An Optimistic Plan ¡°In the first place¡­¡­how long do we have to stay in this system?¡± In the empty conference room. Saki bluntly asked as she sat down at the conference table and put one of her hands up to support her cheek. ¡°Even though we pushed them back, it¡¯s still better to leave this place as soon as possible right? We should hurry up and join the main fleet at the frontline after all.¡± In truth, Kisei is also curious about this. Since their last battle, the [Radiant] along with its escort ships have remained in the Besaria system. Another engineering unit should be in charge of repairing the damaged military and civilian facilities already so it doesn¡¯t make sense for them to stay here for so long. ¡°We can¡¯t do that. Because we are at a disadvantage in this war, we can not afford to make careless moves.¡± Schleer replied with a sigh. If the Calencian army suffers more damage, it will be impossible for them to recover. Their opponent possesses a superior army. If they plan their attack poorly, they will only suffer from the enemy counterattack instead. ¡°Currently, the Noredian army is not very active. Because of the Purge Bombing, they have burned down all the civilian facilities. It¡¯s like they are performing a scorched earth tactic on themselves. Even with them being a great empire, they should not be able to make their move unless they make some preparations first.¡± Schleer continued with a complicated expression. That is natural considering that a great number of her citizens have already been made sacrifices. ¡°So, you plan to move out when the opponent starts to make their move.¡± Schleer nodded to Kisei who said that with his arms crossed. ¡°For mercenaries, I think you should find fighting a defensive battle easier than an offensive one. Our current plan is to repel the Nored empire¡¯s next offensive, reduce their strength as much as possible, and launch a counterattack.¡± ¡°I don¡¯t want to say this but¡­¡­I think this plan sounds very much like a gamble.¡± ¡°That¡¯s¡­¡­I can¡¯t deny it.¡± Schleer looked away as she replied to Saki. If they can not win the first defensive battle and perform well on the counterattack operation afterward, Calencia¡¯s chance of victory would be uncertain at best. Moreover, with their defeat after defeat, it is too optimistic to think that they can suddenly win multiple battles in a row. Dissatisfied with the plan, Saki crossed her legs. She also has her own opinions about what the Noredians are doing. Even if she couldn¡¯t win, she plans to go wild with all her might against them. ¡°Well, it will be fine. I¡¯m here after all.¡± However, in that dark atmosphere, Kisei casually tells them that everything will be fine. ¡°A little difference in power is not a problem at all. It would be fine as long as we can lure their commanders out to the frontline.¡± Due to the Vuld¡¯s feudal system where a small number of aristocrats rule the masses. The Vuld armies are vulnerable to the loss of their commanders. In a case where the aristocrats who are both their employer and leader got taken down, the common soldiers would lose their will to fight. ¡°¡­¡­.but won¡¯t the battle become even harsher if we lure them out?¡± Conversely, these aristocrats also understand their importance and the drawbacks of their consolidation of power. That¡¯s why these aristocrats all seek out ultra-high performance war machines like the Zenith-type to maximize their own personal combat power. The top aristocrats who have the authority to determine their war policies are especially worse and they should consider every single one of them as a serious threat. This makes defeating multiple of such aristocrats an extremely difficult task. ¡°Well, that would certainly be impossible normally. But we can do it. I am Hokuto Kisei¡­¡­the [Wicked Star], after all.¡± ¡°The [Wicked Star] huh. Hmph, you sure said it.¡± Saki grins. ¡°Fine by me. I already understand that the rumors about you were not exaggerated after all.¡± ¡°Exactly. In the end, after our repeated defeats, the only chance for us to win this war is Kisei-san.¡± With a serious expression, Schleer looked into Kisei¡¯s eyes. Her aquamarine-colored eyes have complex emotions behind them. After all, She already understood deep down how pathetic they are to rely on a single man to win the war for them. ¡°The Third Fleet is specialized in mobility and striking power. To put it in perspective, we are the spear of the Calencia empire, and you are our speartip, Kisei-san.¡± ¡°That is good enough for me. No matter what kind of opponent it is, I will win this for you.¡± ¡°You are very confident, Kisei-san.¡± Not only his pilot skills, but this man is also brimming with confidence. Thinking so, Schleer smiled to herself. ¡°For the time being, that is all I can tell you right now. Are you satisfied with this plan? Lt. Makishima.¡± ¡°Yeah, well.¡± Saki bluntly responds. Meanwhile, Kisei raised his hand. ¡°If the meeting¡¯s over, may I speak to you about something unrelated?¡± ¡°What is it?¡± Schleer asked with a smile. ¡°It¡¯s about my movement restriction. Makishima-san here offered to be my bodyguard. That¡¯s why I¡¯d like to ask for permission to leave my room.¡± ¡°¡­¡­¡­.¡± Without answering Kisei, Schleer turns to look at Saki with a smile still on her face. ¡°Hmm, so it¡¯s like that huh.¡± Said Saki with a daring smile. ¡°No.¡± ¡°Eh, why?¡± Isn¡¯t it fine as long as his safety is guaranteed? Kisei thought. ¡°Kisei-san¡¯s escort will be me. I¡¯ve been busy for the past few days so I must apologize to Kisei-san for the inconvenience but¡­¡­please don¡¯t worry, I will accompany you outside of your room as much as possible from now on. There¡¯s no need to trouble Lt. Makishima at all.¡± ¡°What are you saying, Your Highness. Your Highness must be busy right? It¡¯s fine, I will take care of this guy for you. Leave him to me.¡± ¡°Oh, that wouldn¡¯t do. It¡¯s a knight¡¯s job to escort a gentleman after all. Even during wartime, I can¡¯t possibly push away my responsibility.¡± Schleer said as she looked at Saki with an elegant smile. ¡°I was knighted too when the [Dainsleif] was assigned to me though.¡± ¡°Being a knight is not about all the formality, it¡¯s a way of life.¡± ¡°Why are they fighting over such a silly thing, I wonder.¡± Feeling the atmosphere tensed up, Kisei holds his head. ¡°I¡¯d be grateful if either of you could be my bodyguard, you know. Anyway, thank you very much for your kindness. I will contact whichever of you who¡¯s free at the time.¡± Said Kisei as he sighed at the two who are staring daggers at each other. CH 19 The Poisonous Flower ¡°My, oh my, I heard that you were shot down but¡­¡­.I¡¯m glad that you are safe.¡± Inside the [Odelvansen], flagship of the Nored¡¯s Calencian Expeditionary Fleet. A woman is sitting on top of a throne-like command seat at its bridge. There was no hiding that her voice was filled with mockery. ¡°¡­..my sincere apology for the inconvenience, Aneue. The repair of the [Ortho Kratzer] has been completed. I am ready to return to the frontline at any time.¡± (TLN: For those unfamiliar with my style, Aneue = Esteemed [elder] sister) The person who is currently knelt down and replied was none other than Valentina. Seeing her like that, a faint smile float upon the woman¡¯s face. ¡°That is good to hear. Because of your failure, the operation had to be delayed. Finally, it¡¯s the time we crush that upstart of an empire.¡± Hearing her sister said that with a small giggle, Valentina raised her head and narrowed her eyes. The beautiful woman on the command seat has gorgeous curly long hair and purple eyes. Moreover, despite her short height, she shares a great resemblance to Valentina. ¡°The army under this Diaroze Vista Argarine knows no defeat. The responsibility I¡¯m carrying is not to be compared to that of someone on the last of the succession line like you. Understood?¡± ¡°Of course, Aneue.¡± Seeing no change in Valentina¡¯s expression, Diaroze sighed. She then cracked the whip in her hand. ¡°We will carry out the operation to capture their capital at 0400 standard times tomorrow. The enemy¡¯s force is small. It should take their all to muster up a defense against us. We will leave the minimal amount of troops behind to defend and make an all-out attack.¡± ¡°Then, may I take it that Aneue will head out as well?¡± ¡°That¡¯s obvious right?¡± Diaroze nodded with an evil smile. ¡°Once this operation is over, all of the Calencian territories will be in our hands. They have 14 habitable planets. If we allocate that to some appropriate aristocrats and transfer the surplus commoners there, the overpopulation problem of our empire should subside for a while.¡± Vuldes are extremely fertile. Their rate of population growth is incomparable to that of Terrans. And since resources are limited, the number of people who have lost their homes and jobs steadily increases over time. ¡°Even so, for us to resort to Purge Bombing¡­¡­No, for us to unnecessarily slaughter their people, will it not cause antipathy from them afterward?¡± Normally, in a colonial war such as this, the population of the losing side would be forced to board transport ships and deported. However, Diaroze chose not to do that. Instead, the Noredian Fleets are bombing the planet¡¯s surface in an inhumane operation. ¡°How many times do I have to say this, little sister. The longer we take to control the citizens of a country that we have no obligation to protect, the longer our people have to suffer. We must have our priorities straight, don¡¯t you think so?¡± Diaroze responds with a grin. However, such a reason is only an excuse. She simply dislikes putting time and effort into the deportation. It is clear from the fact that she chose such a hardline approach from the get-go. ¡°That¡¯s why we have to take control of these planets as soon as possible for our beloved citizens, you understand?¡± In response, Valentina nodded reluctantly. Although both of them are princesses, the person who is the closest to the seat of Empress is Diaroze. Valentina, who is very low on the succession ladder, had no choice but to act as a subordinate to her. ¡°Good. I¡¯ve sent a file detailing the outline of the operation along with your order to your staff. Do not disappoint me now, understood?¡± ¡°Yes, ma¡¯am.¡± ¡°Umu, that will be all. You are dismissed.¡± When Valentina nodded and tried to stand up, Diaroze evilly grinned at her. ¡°Ah, by the way¡­¡­I heard this funny story earlier you see.¡± ¡°¡­¡­what kind of story is it?¡± ¡°What kind you asked? It appears that there¡¯s a man who doesn¡¯t know his place and is piloting a striker. You should know about this better than anyone, no?¡± For the first time, Valentina¡¯s expression was distorted for a moment. She fixes that immediately and raises her voice. ¡°Aneue, that¡¯s¡­¡­¡± ¡°Ku Ku. Don¡¯t worry, my beloved sister. I have no plan to make fun of you as a weakling who lost to a man.¡± Said Diaroze as she stood up from her command seat and walked down toward Valentina with imposing footsteps. She then puts her hand on Valentina¡¯s shoulder and smiles. ¡°A man who piloted a junk striker and took down a Zenith. Don¡¯t you think he¡¯s quite a wild steed?¡± ¡°¡­¡­Ha.¡± ¡°And you see¡­..This is it. Showing him the reality and reminding him of his rightful place¡­¡­don¡¯t you think that such a thing is exactly my responsibility as the next Empress?¡± When Diaroze let go of her shoulder and cracked her whip again, Valentina secretly grits her teeth. ¡°The wilder the horse, the greater the pleasure when you tame it. Don¡¯t you think so too? Kukukuku¡­.¡± The expression of Diaroze who continued to crack her whips is a lustful one. Knowing that her sister is a hardcore sadist, Valentina takes a deep breath and imagines the scenario where Kisei falls into Diaroze¡¯s hand. At worst, he would lose his life and if not, he would cease to function as a human being. However, it is clear that there is no point in trying to convince her sister. What this sadist loves more than anything else is to make everyone submit to her, be it men or women. And as her sister, Valentina is no exception. She must not unnecessarily show an opening her sister can exploit by saying something extra here. ¡°Well, that man would certainly be the perfect gift for Aneue. Powerless as I am, please let this Valentina be the one who fetches him for you.¡± ¡°Kukukuku, you said it. I will make an exception and give you the front row seat of when I devour that man whole. Oh, what a considerate elder sister I am?¡± Seeing Diaroze¡¯s laughter, Valentina began to ponder how to outsmart her sister and make Kisei her own. CH 20 Comeback Signal The news that the Noredian Fleet had made a move quickly spread through the Calencian army. The target of the Noredian¡¯s offensive this time is the Calencian capital in the Alp system. If the capital is taken, the Calencian will no longer stand a chance of turning the table. Naturally, the Calencian is mobilizing all of their remaining ships to intercept it. ¡°14 battleships and 30 large-type cruisers belonging to the Noredian Fleet are in formation. A large number of enemies is yet to be confirmed.¡± Kisei was listening to the operator¡¯s report inside the cockpit of the [Caliburn-Revive]. With a straw in his mouth, he is drinking strawberry milk while looking at the star chart displayed on the console. Since this is going to be a decisive battle where two major forces collide, the predicted battlefield is a gigantic one. ¡°The plan is for our fleet to take a detour route and flank the enemy from behind.¡± ¡°So basically, what we are going to do here is a hammer and anvil strategy. We are going to act as the hammer in this battle, Kisei-san.¡± Schleer further elaborates on the operator¡¯s explanation. The essence of this operation is for the main Calencian Fleet to hold back the Noredian Fleet while the 3rd Fleet under Schleer launches an assault on the enemy central command. It may seem difficult to even identify the battlefield in the vast void of space but in reality, that is not the case. FTL (Faster Than Light) navigation for ships usually requires a fixed route called [Starway] where it is completely safe to travel and has many unmanned lighthouses installed at regular intervals. An implementation of [Starway] is very costly and there are not many of them around. That¡¯s why the enemy¡¯s invasion route can be easily predicted. ¡°This will be a long and dangerous mission. I¡¯d like¡ª¡ª-¡± ¡°Your Highness, communication just came through from the 1st Fleet! They¡¯ve made contact with the enemy¡¯s vanguard fleet, they are in the middle of combat, ma¡¯am!¡± ¡°This is too early! They already started!?¡± Initially, they predicted that the Calencian main fleets would come into direct contact with the enemy in half a day. It appears that the enemy¡¯s advance is much faster than they expected. ¡°Due to the enemy¡¯s electronic warfare and sabotage, the main fleet¡¯s detection network has been paralyzed. They want us to perform a reconnaissance mission and confirm the location of the enemy¡¯s main force for them, ma¡¯am.¡± ¡°Certainly, our fleet is located far away from our main force so we would stand a better chance to pull this reconnaissance off but¡­¡­this is going to be a dangerous mission right off the bat.¡± The commander of the 1st Fleet is Queen Alisha Henrietta. Queen of the Calencia empire and Schleer¡¯s mother. Schleer can not afford to disobey her order so she can only groan on her command seat. As an aside, although she is on the bridge, she has already changed into her pilot suit and is ready to sortie at any time. Naturally, she has the responsibility to command her fleet but in a Vuld army, it is common for the commander to take to the field herself. Since her staff and other high-ranking officers can handle commanding the fleet in her absence there is no significant impact even if Schleer goes to the frontline. ¡°There¡¯s no other way. Let¡¯s sortie the 3rd and the 4th companies to conduct a reconnaissance. Considering the safety of our fleet, we can not dispatch too much force though.¡± Within the 3rd Fleet, only the [Radiant] has a decent operational capability to dispatch strikers. The Destroyers escorting the [Radiant] only have 2 strikers onboard each at most. If they dispatch too many strikers on this recon mission, the fleet would be practically defenseless if the enemy launched a surprise attack on them. ¡°I will sortie too.¡± ¡°Kisei-san?¡± Schleer thought for a moment about Kisei¡¯s proposal. It¡¯s a dangerous mission but with Kisei¡¯s ability, he should be able to deal with the situation even if it turns into a battle. If that¡¯s the case then she will be able to conserve her forces as well. ¡°Then please do¡­¡­ Lt. Makishima, please accompany him.¡± ¡°Yes, Leave him to me.¡± Schleer sighed a little at Saki¡¯s triumphant face on the monitor. This is bitter for her but she can¡¯t assign herself to a recon mission. After all, the time that Schleer has to head out would be when they are in a decisive battle. Even with her officers around, there is still a limit to how much they can do. ¡°Operator, send the predicted location of the enemy fleet to Kisei-san¡¯s striker.¡± ¡°Yes, ma¡¯am.¡± An electronic sound rings out inside the cockpit of the [Caliburn-Revive]. Displaying on the console now is the location data that the operator sent over. It¡¯s a place not that far from their current location. ¡°We have prepared ride boosters at the launch deck. They can sortie at any time. ma¡¯am.¡± ¡°Good. Kisei-san, Lt. Makishima, please scout ahead for us.¡± ¡°Roger that.¡± After acknowledging their order, they proceed to the launch deck in their strikers. Inside the catapult deck, a large motorcycle-like machine¡­¡­a ride booster was there, ready to launch. Kisei made the [Caliburn-Revive] straddle on it with no hesitation.¡± [[Ride Booster Connected.]] The AI announced. Besides using it to break through the atmosphere, a ride booster can help increase the operation range significantly in outer space using its large amount of propellant and high-performance boosters. They were indispensable for long-range operations. ¡°Course cleared, Catapult¡¯s voltage level normal. Launching permission granted.¡± ¡°Aye Aye.¡± After confirming that the blast deflector had shut behind him, Kisei activated the thruster at full power and the blue jet flame burned the deflector. ¡°Hokuto Kisei, [Caliburn-Revive] launching off!¡± The moment he pressed the switch on the control stick, the catapult deck accelerated the striker with a tremendous force and launched it out to outer space using electromagnetic induction. When the G-force from the acceleration assaulted his body, Kisei let out a small groan. ¡°¡­..Ugh, Makishima-san¡¯s also safely launched huh.¡± After completing the initial acceleration, Kisei looks back and sees that Saki¡¯s [Dainsleif] was also catapulted out from the deck and is now flying behind the [Caliburn-Revive]. ¡°So the target location is the Slaga system? Let¡¯s take our time so that we don¡¯t exhaust our propellant.¡± ¡°Roger.¡± While Kisei nodded at Saki¡¯s reply, he pressed the switch on the console. The FTL navigation technology is a technology that frees objects from the constraint of relativity by reducing the apparent mass of the striker to zero and accelerates it to a faster than light speed in an instant. That being said, although it is a mature technology that has been developed for more than a hundred years, it is still not completely safe. [[Entering FTL Navigation Mode. Energy Bypass Check¡­¡­¡­Normal. Reverse Gear Connected, Flywheel Reversal Starts.]] When the AI announced so, a golden wheel appeared behind the striker. The main engine then makes a strange growl and the tachometer immediately shoots to the limit. Taking a deep breath, Kisei pushed a button on the control stick. [[FTL Navigation, Starts.]] The light of the numerous stars on the main monitor bleeds into lines. And eventually, the lights change into seven psychedelic colors. ¡°Alright, Good boy.¡± Kisei was a little worried about the FTL Navigation since he¡¯s piloting a modified striker but there seems to be no particular problem. Looking at the instruments inside his cockpit, it appears that the striker is steadily breaking through the speed of light and is now moving across space at tremendous speed. After sighing in relief, he operated his mobile terminal and played light and easy pop music in the cockpit. ¡°I guess this will take some time huh, let¡¯s prioritize the safety here¡­¡­¡± Whispering so, Kisei gazes at the rainbow-colored space flying past him on the monitor. CH 21 How to fight an Interstellar Battle Two hours after they departed from the [Radiant]. Kisei and Saki have crossed several star systems and are approaching their target location. Sporadic battles with the Noredian army have begun in other theaters but so far they have not encountered any enemy in their path. It was a peaceful trip. ¡°Oh, the jet¡¯s amazing.¡± The only thing that can be done to kill time is gazing at the universe. Kisei raised his voice while watching the pale jet cones erupting from above and below the white dwarf at the center of the star system they just flew past. ¡°Don¡¯t even think about approaching that thing alright. It won¡¯t just end with you getting blown away after all.¡± ¡°Even I wouldn¡¯t just go off and play during missions, you know.¡± ¡°Really?¡± ¡°Really, Really.¡± They were having such a casual conversation but suddenly, a warning sound started blaring inside the cockpit. Hearing that, Kisei reflexively turns his eyes to the monitor. ¡°Reaction from the Tadar (TLN: I think it¡¯s a Tachyon Radar)? The quantum sonar is¡­¡­there are high-mass FTL reactions, an enemy?¡± Saki, who seems to have seen the same reading, shouted. In the current era, where means to travel at faster than light speed have been established, there are also technologies that enable enemy detection in another star system that are more than a few light-years away. Naturally, since strikers are designed to travel at FTL speed as well, such detection devices come equipped with them as standard equipment. ¡°If it¡¯s this size then it must be a battleship class. Moreover, there are 4 of them¡­¡­..escort ships are also detected. Do you think they are part of the enemy¡¯s main force?¡± ¡°Maybe, but this is still only a small number compared to the initial report right. Isn¡¯t it possible that their main force is somewhere else?¡± The report said that the enemy¡¯s main force consisted of 14 battleships. If there are only 4 here then it is possible that they are just an enemy¡¯s raid unit. Since they were tasked with finding out the location of the enemy¡¯s main force, if they report this in and turn out that they are actually a separate unit then they would fail their objective. ¡°No¡­¡­our opponent is a large army and they only have one target. They should have no need to split up their force and perform a separate assault.¡± ¡°That¡¯s true. Then these guys must be their advance guard huh? If so then there¡¯s a high probability that their main force is right behind them.¡± Saki calls up the star chart and looks into their possible locations. The star systems in this area are located close to each other. Saki is currently looking into the star systems that are connected via Starways which are within tens of minutes of travel time via the FTL Navigation. ¡°Hey, since it would be bad if we send back vague information, maybe we should confirm it with the pinger.¡± ¡°That¡¯s a little risky but I guess we have to huh.¡± Kisei proposed to fully activate the active sensor and expand their search range. Naturally, there are also disadvantages to this method. The enemy will be able to pinpoint their location. If that happens, they would immediately dispatch their interceptor. However, to confirm that they have indeed found the enemy¡¯s main force, they have no choice but to do this. With no hesitation, Kisei activated the active sensor. The search range displayed on the monitor greatly expanded. As they expected, a large number of reactions were shown behind the advance guard they discovered. It appears that this is indeed the enemy¡¯s main force. ¡°As I thought. Let¡¯s call it in.¡± With that said, Kisei operated the panel on his console and sent the information to the [Radiant] via an encrypted channel. With them being very far away from the fleet, voice communication is unavailable at the moment. After all, the enemy has already jammed the communication in this system. ¡°Now, what do we do? Their interceptor will be coming at us soon you know.¡± ¡°Well, as a mercenary, it would be rude for me to not give them a warm welcome.¡± Kisei grinned and equipped the [Caliburn-Revive]¡¯s left hand with the anti-ship grenade launcher from its back. He didn¡¯t forget to bring spare ammunition to this mission as well. With this, he should be able to sufficiently handle the anti-ship warfare that is about to unfold. ¡°You serious? I heard that you rushed straight toward 2 battleships the other day but this time there are 4 you know?¡± ¡°My combat power has also doubled since last time. It¡¯s a fair game right.¡± ¡°You really are insane¡­¡­Tsk, no choices then.¡± Saki is uneasy about this but her pride as a woman does not allow her to retreat while a man is going out to fight. Shaking her head, Saki forced a smile to her face. ¡°I don¡¯t have any anti-ship armaments on the [Dainsleif]. I¡¯m going to provide support only alright.¡± ¡°Yeah, I¡¯ll leave my back to you.¡± Saying so, they entered the FTL Navigation mode and headed toward the enemy fleet. Naturally, the enemy also detected their approach since their ships are equipped with high-performance enemy search equipment. Launching an interception, multiple strikers are launching off from the launch deck of their battleships and cruisers. The sortied Noredian strikers are now in an interception formation. A high degree of training can be observed from their organized positioning. After a moment, Kisei and Saki arrived at the star system they are traveling in. Accompanied by a flash of blue light, the golden wheel behind their strikers disappears. ¡°Ugh, there¡¯s a lot more than I thought. Are we really going to do this, Hokuto!¡± ¡°It¡¯s not just a lot. But there¡¯s no backing out now right, ORAHHH!¡± ¡°Shit, you¡¯re right! Let¡¯s make some fireworks and head back!¡± Whether it was due to good or bad luck, the location where Kisei and Saki exited the FTL Navigation¡­¡­..was extremely close to the enemy fleet. Considering the sense of distance in space, they practically appeared in front of the enemy. Without sparing them even a moment to breathe, they have already reached the engagement distance. ¡°Incoming!¡± Countless crimson beams flood toward Kisei and Saki. The anti-aircraft guns from the fleet also opened fire. Both Kisei and Saki abandon their ride boosters and take evasive maneuvers but the enemy¡¯s attack is relentless. The powerful beams that each could potentially blow up their striker send chills down their spine. ¡°It will be easier on us if we are in melee range. We are going to use their strikers as covers and approach the fleet alright.¡± ¡°THERE¡¯S NO OTHER WAY RIGHT! If they keep firing at us like this we will be blown to pieces even before we can land a hit on their ships.¡± Saying so, cold sweat started to gather on Saki¡¯s forehead. CH 22 A Forceful Reconnaissance ¡°They are everywhere!¡± ¡°Now you can pick whichever opponent you like right!¡± ¡°Isn¡¯t it more like we¡¯re rats in a cage!?¡± Kisei and Saki have such a conversation while avoiding the beams flying at them from all directions. The number of enemy strikers is more than 30. In addition, there are 4 battleships and multiple escorts consisting of several battlecruisers and destroyers. Since they put themselves in this situation, it could be called an act of suicide. ¡°No matter how many there are!¡± A green beam fired from Kisei¡¯s blaster rifle pierced through the abdomen of an enemy [Jetta]. While gracefully avoiding dozens of return fires, Kisei fires another shot and scores himself another one. ¡°I will take them all down! That¡¯s how I do things!¡± ¡°Can¡¯t you be more considerate toward someone who has to accompany you!¡± Even while complaining to Kisei, Saki¡¯s movement did not show any openings. By using the thrusters on the cloak-like armor covering the [Dainsleif], she skillfully accelerated toward the enemy. And with a single flash from her sword, the shield-bearing [Jetta] was bisected. ¡°Well, sorry about that. Ahahahahahaha!!¡± ¡°You¡¯re totally not sorry about this at all!!¡± Saki raised an agonizing cry but the Noredian side also shared her sentiment. After all, despite the fact that they have a large fleet, they are having a hard time fighting against two strikers. From both side¡¯s perspectives, this battle is outrageous. ¡°Damn it, I thought that the first guy was crazy but the one following behind is insane too!¡± ¡°Take some distance! Fighting against a Zenith is a bad idea!¡± ¡°Even if you say that¡­¡­UWAH!¡± The muzzle of Kisei¡¯s blaster rifle flashed again. And although they had already taken an evasive maneuver, the enemy striker¡¯s abdomen was struck by the blaster beam. It was a high-precision shooting that almost gave the illusion that the beam just home into their striker. ¡°It¡¯s not like we are any safer away from them right! I¡¯m going in! Cover me!¡± An impatient pilot rushed her [Jetta] toward the [Caliburn-Revive] with its longsword unsheathed. ¡°You idiot! Damn it!¡± Her wingman had no choice but to provide support fire as she rushed in. In response, Kisei grinned and returned fire. The two beams collide in the empty space and scatter into particles of light. ¡°You are kidding¡­¡­¡± ¡°That¡¯s the spirit! I will play with you!¡± Kisei let go of the anti-ship grenade launcher and took out a photon saber with the [Caliburn-Revive]¡¯s left hand. The two strikers fly past each other and bright sparks scatter. ¡°Even if I lose in power¡­¡­.!¡± The [Jetta] skillfully parried Kisei¡¯s photon saber. The pilot is confident enough in her swordsmanship to challenge Kisei into close-quarter combat. However, Kisei pulls the trigger on his control stick. The head-mounted machine guns fire at the [Jetta]. The small-caliber bullets do not have enough penetration power to get through a striker¡¯s armor but what Kisei aimed at was the enemy¡¯s main camera. ¡°Tsk!¡± While switching to the sub-camera, the pilot holds up a shield to defend against Kisei¡¯s advance. However, Kisei had already read she would do that. He sneaked around to the side and stuck his pile bunker to the [Jetta]¡¯s flank. Accompanied by a crushing sound, the [Jetta]¡¯s engine was pierced and ceased to function. Kicking away the [Jetta] which was rendered a piece of junk, Kisei retracted the stake and fired a wire gun at the waist of the [Caliburn-Revive]. ¡°It would be bad if I lost this.¡± The wire gun hooks the anti-ship grenade launcher which was floating idly in space with its special suction anchor and instantly rewinds it back to the [Caliburn-Revive] while the photon saber has already been put away at the hardpoint on the chest. ¡°Oi, Hokuto!¡± Saki shouted at him with a serious voice. However, Kisei does not answer and simply shoots his rifle behind him. The [Jetta] that was taking aim at Kisei from behind was shot through. ¡°I know, Thank you!¡± ¡°Tsk, I told you I¡¯d have your back right!¡± Saki replied with a bitter smile. Her voice was a mixture of relief and amazement. Let alone behind him, it seems that this man has no blindspot. ¡°Anyway, we managed to get closer to their fleet. They are worried about friendly fire so they can¡¯t fire a barrage at us. It¡¯s your chance! Go!¡± ¡°Okay, Okay, leave them to me!¡± Kisei floors the pedal. The [Caliburn- Revive] then shot straight like an arrow toward the enemy fleet. It is impossible for the mass-produced strikers to catch up to a newly built Zenith. Several strikers take aim with their blaster rifles to try stopping him but Saki fires her submachine gun at them, preventing their sniping. ¡°Uu¡­..gh, the G¡­¡­.¡± Kisei groans while enduring the G from the acceleration. With the [Caliburn-Revive] being a high-performance unit, the acceleration was painful for Kisei¡¯s fragile body. However, if he wants to win this, he has no choice but to bear it. When he flew out of the battle line, the enemy fleet¡¯s anti-aircraft guns resumed fire at the [Caliburn-Revive]. Not only the normal anti-aircraft blaster cannon, but the high-power blaster cannon of the battleships¡¯ main guns also ruthlessly fired toward him. ¡°Uwehh¡­.I¡¯m gonna vomit¡­¡­Ughh, like hell I¡¯m going to get hit by that!¡± Although he was already screaming from the pain, his evasion maneuvers are still sharp. There, he finally reached the broadside of his targeted battleship. ¡°LET¡¯S GO!¡± Kisei shouted so and grit his teeth while pulling up the control stick. The [Caliburn-Revive] then immediately rose up. With a blaster rifle in one hand and an anti-ship grenade launcher in another, Kisei pulled the trigger. Beams and missiles fly toward the enemy battleship. The radar array installed on the bridge was blown off and a moment later, the missile made its impact, causing a huge explosion at the propulsion engine. But it doesn¡¯t end there. Kisei continued to pull the trigger until the 4-slot magazine of the grenade launcher was empty. The empty magazine then automatically ejects out the back and Kisei accelerates his striker once again. ¡°As I thought, that¡¯s not enough huh¡­¡­.¡± While flying away from the exploding battleship, Kisei looks back to confirm the destruction of his target. However, some of the huge armored thruster nozzles of the battleship are still operating. It would be difficult to say that this battleship has been incapacitated. Seeing that, Kisei smiled under a rough breath. ¡°Alright then, one more time!¡± After mounting the blaster rifle at the hardpoint located on the hips, Kisei reloaded the grenade launcher with a new magazine. Then, while avoiding the barrage of anti-aircraft bullets, he turned back and accelerated toward the battleship. CH 23 Noblesse Oblige ¡°Phew¡­.Finally.¡± Kisei sighed inside the cockpit of the [Caliburn-Revive]. It was 3 minutes after his initial assault on the battleship that he rendered it immobile by repeatedly hitting its propulsion engine with all anti-ship missiles he brought. However, since the main engine and guns are still operable, they can still dish out heavy firepower. It would be hard to say that he took it down but at least it should no longer be able to participate in further battles. This result should be sufficient for the time being. ¡°You seriously went and did it huh. It wouldn¡¯t be strange if they give you a medal for this you know?¡± Saki laughs as she evades the enemy¡¯s fires which are still continuously pouring toward her. While Kisei was busy taking out the battleship, it appears that she also took down multiple strikers herself. ¡°I¡¯ve never heard of a pilot who took down a battleship alone you know, seriously!¡± ¡°Alone? We did it together right!¡± While leaving the battleship which is spewing out black smoke behind, Kisei replied. Although he has taken out one of the battleships, the enemy still has 3 battleships and many other escort vessels. The high-power particle cannons they are shooting are lighting up the blackness of space like an aurora. It¡¯s an aurora of death that you would die if even a single one hit you. ¡°If you have a strong partner that you can leave your back to then you would have peace of mind doing your things right!¡± In fact, the reason why Kisei was able to reach the enemy fleet so quickly was because of Saki. it may sound bad but, Saki acted as a decoy for him. Besides, even if they choose to ignore her, the [Dainsleif] and Saki¡¯s skills are more than enough to prevent them from interfering with Kisei¡¯s work. ¡°When that comes from you, it sounds a bit sarcastic you know!¡± Saki bitterly smiled as she bisected another [Jetta]. While ignoring the wreckage of the enemy strikers she cut down, the [Dainsleif] blew its thrusters and joined up with the [Caliburn-Revive] which was flying away from the enemy fleet. ¡°Shut up! I was being serious alright!¡± ¡°Yeah, yeah! I¡¯m so happy!¡± A beam from the blaster rifle of the [Caliburn-Revive] and the [Dainsleif]¡¯s katana each caught another enemy striker, taking them both down at the same time. ¡°Even if they are piloting a Zenith, aren¡¯t they just too strong!¡± ¡°Pile bunker¡­¡­don¡¯t tell me, that white one is the rumored [Wicked Star]?¡± Even though they are the elites of the Nored empire, if they get beaten so one-sidedly like this, it is natural for unrest to spread through their ranks. Despite them still having an overwhelming advantage in numbers, the Noredian pilots felt like they are on the brink of defeat. ¡°Be firm! Do you think you can still call yourself a proud soldier of House Eldegard like this!¡± One person shouted at the pilots. The voice was an aged yet inspiring one. It came from a blue striker who had sortied from one of the three battleships that are still unharmed. ¡°Countess!¡± ¡°Lady Rosia has come!¡± The fleet commander, Rosia von Eldegard has come out on her personal Zenith. On top of seeing their commander sortied without regard to her own safety the Noredian¡¯s morale which was declining began to recover when they realized that a Zenith is joining their side. ¡®Still, this is bad¡­¡­¡¯ However, Rosia herself is having cold sweat inside her personal striker. She is already old enough to be someone¡¯s grandmother. She has never neglected training but she doesn¡¯t think that she can compete with the two Calencian Zenith, especially after she saw their earlier rampage. Nevertheless, she came out here because she was strongly urged by her staff. A noble who hides in a safe place during a crisis would lose the respect of their fellow aristocrats as well as the commoners. At the core of Vuld culture, being an aristocrat is the same as being a warrior. Once branded a coward, both their subordinates and the commoners would turn away from them. If that happens, let alone fighting a war, she would have a hard time ruling her own territory. ¡°Rebuild the formation! If we fall into confusion now, we will play right into the enemy¡¯s hand!¡± ¡°Yes, ma¡¯am!¡± That being said, the effect of having their commander on the field is tremendous. Even Kisei and Saki can feel that the enemy pilots are moving better now. ¡°Oi, that blue one¡­¡­.¡± ¡°That must be the enemy¡¯s commander. Man, the Noredian commanders all have guts huh!¡± Kisei grinned. Rather than a ferocious smile, the smile on his face is a cheerful one. It indicates that he is truly enjoying this. In truth, Kisei is honestly impressed by the fearless attitude of the enemy commander who came out to the battlefield directly after being shown the disparity between their skills. ¡°Still, if the enemy commander comes out then we have no choice but to respond in kind right! Let¡¯s go!¡± ¡°Tsk, and I thought that we can finally head back too. Can¡¯t be helped then, I will go with you!¡± After returning the grenade launcher of which ammunition has already been exhausted to the back, Kisei took out a photon saber. He then immediately accelerated. Naturally, he¡¯s beelining toward the blue Zenith. ¡°THEY¡¯RE COMING BACK! DON¡¯T LET THEM GET CLOSE TO OUR LADY!¡± ¡°FIRE, FIRE, FIRE!¡± The Noredian strikers fiercely fired their blasters to intercept them but Kisei avoided what he could and parried the rest while continuing to rush toward the blue zenith with unstoppable momentum. ¡°No, you won¡¯t!¡± Rosia took out a long blaster cannon. Instead of Kisei, her aim is fixed at Saki. This is because she realized that it would be easier to hit her rather than Kisei whose skills are in a different dimension. ¡°Heh, Oooh, scary!¡± However, Saki casually evaded the extra-large beam fired toward her. After all, despite being overshadowed in this battle by Kisei, she is still the top ace of the Calencian army. ¡°Tsk!¡± Rosia ejects the empty particle cartridge and reloads another round into her cannon. She then quickly takes aim at the [Dainsleif] again. However, by that time, the two strikers had already shortened the distance between them. ¡°I take it that you are the commander of this fleet! My name is Hokuto Kisei, a mercenary! This is [Caliburn-Revive]! I challenge you to single combat!¡± ¡°So it comes to this after all huh¡­¡­.¡± Rosia regretfully muttered. Even if she turns this down, she is no longer in a position she can escape. Saying that she won¡¯t accept it due to her fleet¡¯s superiority will not cut it either. She has two options here. Either refuse and be disgraced or accept it and get killed in action. If she is disgraced here, not only her but her trusted confidants and even her children would be ridiculed for it. And thus Rosia made her decision. ¡°Countess of Alfen, Rosia von Eldegard, the [Gries Wraith] accept your challenge. To be honest, I never thought that I¡¯d come face to face with a male pilot.¡± CH 24 Damage and Strategy ¡°Communication coming in from the Advance Fleet! The enemy Zenith have withdrawn, ma¡¯am.¡± At the [Odelvansen], flagship of the Calencian Expeditionary Fleet. Inside its poor taste and needlessly luxurious bridge, Diaroze squinted her eyes at the reports from her operator. ¡°Damage assessment.¡± ¡°Yes, ma¡¯am¡­¡­the battleship [Argostar] was incapacitated. The commander, Countess Rosia of Alfen was defeated in single combat. However, she is uninjured and can return to frontline immediately, ma¡¯am.¡± ¡°I don¡¯t care about that sorry old hag. I can replace her anytime I want. I¡¯m talking about the strikers.¡± ¡°14 were destroyed but it appears that all pilots are safe, ma¡¯am.¡± Diaroze cracked her whip. In response, the operator slightly jumped. ¡°What a ladylike thing to do. It brings tears to my eyes. Don¡¯t you think so? Hmm?¡± ¡°Y, Yes, ma¡¯am.¡± All strikers were destroyed with their pilots spared since the enemy only targeted the engine. Saki also disliked useless killings so all Noredian pilots were unharmed and rescued later by their battleships. ¡°How is the state of the [Argostar]? Is it possible for it to join the operation later?¡± ¡°It appears that the propulsion engine has been completely destroyed, ma¡¯am. It is currently being towed by its escort vessels but¡­..it needs to be docked for at least half a month to repair to the extent that it can navigate on its own. Two months would be required for it to operate at full capacity again.¡± ¡°So the enemy was that thorough huh.¡± While stroking her own cheek, Diaroze¡¯s lips curved up. ¡°If they had targeted the bridge instead of the propulsion engine, that ship would have turned into space debris already¡± The propulsion engine is a known weak point so it is carefully armored. Because of that, its durability is comparable to other important sections¡­¡­¡­one could say that it¡¯s a vital part of the ship. It is unusual for a striker that only has access to minimal anti-ship armaments to cause that much damage. After all, the Battleships reign as a symbol of power on the battlefield because they are not easily sunk. ¡°And they did that with only two strikers¡­¡­no, if we count only the one with anti-ship armament then it¡¯s actually one huh. Kukuku¡­¡­.such disgrace is unheard of, don¡¯t you think?¡± In ancient times, there were many cases where strikers sank battleships. But that only happened because one side deployed a large number of strikers and overwhelmed the other side in a saturation attack. No matter how powerful the Zenith-types are, Diaroze has never heard of a case where two strikers taking down a battleship before. ¡°It, it is exactly as you said, ma¡¯am¡­¡­.our deepest apology.¡± Intimidated by Diaroze, the operator reflexively apologized. Of course, she is in no way to be blamed for this loss. However, Diaroze¡¯s reply was sadistic all the same. ¡°Seriously, what a bunch of incompetent dogs!¡± ¡°HII¡­¡­!¡± If the operator had defended herself or taken the punishment while showing her dissatisfaction, she may be at risk of getting beheaded without trials. That¡¯s why she didn¡¯t say anything extra and kept shaking in fear. ¡°So¡­¡­the enemy pilot, is it confirmed that it¡¯s the rumored mercenary?¡± ¡°Y, Yes. In the single combat against Rosia-sama, he announced himself as Hokuto Kisei¡­¡­..reports from those on-site also confirmed that it was a male¡¯s voice. There is no doubt that it was him, ma¡¯am.¡± ¡°Fu, Kukuku¡­¡­..I see. So there really is such a strong male pilot huh. This is going to be fun.¡± Diaroze speaks to herself with an amorous smile on her face. There is not even a shred of any anger or dissatisfaction of seeing her war potential diminished in her expression. She truly is enjoying this. ¡°Your Highness¡­¡­this still hasn¡¯t changed the fact that this is a terrible situation for us. After all, we have already lost one of our battleships even though the full-scale offensive has not begun yet.¡± A middle-aged officer nervously cautions Diaroze. The Noredian side still hasn¡¯t discovered the location of the Calencian main force. Not only that, the position of their main force is currently known to the enemy. This disadvantage in information and the loss of one of their battleships may impact negatively on their overall war effort. ¡°There¡¯s no problem with losing one or two ships right? Not to mention that the one we lost belonged to an aristocratic army. In other words, they are just outsiders. The elites under the direct control of the Empress are still completely safe, no? What do we need to be afraid of?¡± ¡°Certainly, we still have an overwhelming advantage overall. However¡­¡­..I think that even a single defeat albeit an insignificant one would taint Your Highness¡¯s glory.¡± The difference in strength is overwhelming. It would be strange if they can not obtain an overwhelming victory in this war. The staff is worried that if they show even a small sign of struggle, it would tarnish Diaroze¡¯s reputation. ¡°Let the incompetent dogs bark all they want. No matter the process, the victory will be mine in the end. After all, I am the great Diaroze Vista Argarine.¡± Diaroze proudly declared so. ¡°¡­..Understood, ma¡¯am.¡± The staff nodded with a small sigh. Diaroze¡¯s track record is enough to support her arrogant words and overbearing attitude. She has a long experience in the army. Moreover, every battle she commanded resulted in victories. The fact that Diaroze has risen up to the first in the succession line despite having multiple older sisters is attesting to that. ¡°Then let us rethink our strategy, ma¡¯am. Now that the enemy has discovered our location, they should be able to predict our first target. Perhaps it would be unwise to retain our course?¡± ¡°No, the frontline is already being established. We have no time to withdraw and draft up a new plan.¡± If she turns her fleet back here, she would be effectively abandoning the vanguard fleet that is still in the middle of combat. The vanguard fleet consisted of smaller vessels like destroyers and cruisers so it is true that they are easier to replace than battleships. However, considering that such replacements would have to be dispatched from their homeland, it will take some time for them to get here. This operation will decide the fate of the Calencia empire. It would not be wise to give them more time to prepare. ¡°The operation will continue as is. Our course will remain unchanged. What, even if they know where we are heading, it should be easy for us to predict where they will place their defense. We just have to be well-prepared and breakthrough.¡± ¡°Your wish is our command, ma¡¯am¡± Diaroze grinned at the staff who accepted her order with a bow. ¡°That being said, leaving one or two battleships aside, we managed to obtain some valuable information. Don¡¯t you think that luck is on our side?¡± ¡°Meaning¡­¡­.?¡± The staff was puzzled. Right now, she can only think about how the enemy¡¯s previous assault would leave a negative impact on their operation. ¡°I¡¯m talking about Hokuto Kisei. Don¡¯t you get it? The more something is difficult to obtain, the more valuable it is. I want him all to myself more and more now.¡± ¡°Do you want to get your hands on that man to such an extent, Your Highness?¡± ¡°Of course. I started to get interested when I heard that he beat back my sister. But if he¡¯s going to appear in front of me and stand in my way¡­¡­.Kukuku, it would be impossible for me to say that I¡¯m not interested at all right?¡± ¡°¡­¡­I will inform our personnel to try and capture him alive if possible, ma¡¯am.¡± The staff answered with a bitter expression. The opponent is no ordinary pilot. She doesn¡¯t know how much damage he will cause once they meet him in battle. ¡°Umu. I will leave that to you. Kuku, I look forward to messing him up¡­¡­.¡± While gazing at the image of the universe displaying on the monitor, Diaroze muttered. CH 25 Enemy¡¯s Target ¡°Phew, we are finally back.¡± Kisei said as he stretched his muscles after he stored the [Caliburn-Revive] at the [Radiant]¡¯s hangar. He spent quite a long time inside the narrow cockpit so fatigue has accumulated because of that. ¡°Man, I didn¡¯t think that we would be able to get back in one piece. I thought I was going to die, you know.¡± ¡°You were with me so it¡¯s all good right. I have never had a wingman crash on me, you know.¡± While cheerfully replying so, Kisei took out a lollipop from the holster wrapped around his thigh. He quickly unwrapped the wrapping and put the strawberry flavor candy into his mouth. ¡°¡­..hey, why do you have a lollipop inside your holster.¡± ¡°When you get tired, you need a way to replenish your sugar right.¡± ¡°I mean, why inside the holster¡­¡­¡± Saki asked with a tired expression. ¡°Why you ask? There¡¯s nowhere else to put it in a pilot suit right.¡± ¡°No, just put a gun in there. What are you going to do if you need to fight outside your striker.¡± ¡°Even if you give me a gun, I¡¯m so bad that I¡¯d just end up shooting my allies in the back, you know. ¡°There¡¯s no way a person who can shoot a blaster rifle with no lock-on assist like you can be that bad right!!¡± Saki unintentionally retorted in a loud voice. To shoot without lock-on assistance means that the pilot did not rely on the computer of the striker. It¡¯s something that can¡¯t be done unless the pilot is a very skilled sharpshooter. ¡°Well, that was not really my shooting skills though¡­¡­.¡± ¡°You two, Good work!¡± When Kisei was about to continue, he was interrupted by Schleer who ran up to them. Although she probably did not see any battle on her end, she looks a little excited. ¡°You gave me a surprise! I never thought that you would have gone ahead and taken down a battleship.¡± ¡°I didn¡¯t take it down, you know. I just made it impossible to navigate by itself.¡± ¡°Certainly, giving them some time, that battleship would show back up on the frontline but¡­¡­.with its propulsion engine completely wrecked, it should take them a few months to fully repair it. This is a big deal you know!¡± ¡°Wahaha, I was just living up to my reputation as the strongest. With a reliable partner, one or two battleships are nothing for us, right Makishima-san!¡± ¡°I¡¯m not going to do that ever again alright!¡± It is insane to challenge an entire fleet with only two strikers. To combat a fleet with strikers, you would normally need several dozens of strikers. Even with the Zenith-types that boasts high performance, the pilots are still living beings of flesh and blood. It should be impossible for them to compensate for the workload required of dozens of people. ¡°C, Certainly, the earlier battle really was pushing it¡­¡­I am happy for such a great battle result but it would be bad for us if you were to get shot down.¡± ¡°That¡¯s exactly right, Your Highness. Please do something about this guy¡­¡­seriously.¡± Schleer shook her head from side to side and lightly tapped her cheeks. She then turns her gaze toward Kisei. ¡°No matter how strong you are, it should be easier for you if you have support¡­¡­..Please do avoid picking a fight where you would be outnumbered in the future, Kisei-san.¡± ¡°EHHHHHH.¡± ¡°Please. If it becomes a decisive battle, I can participate in the battle and provide fire support for you using the [Mistilteinn] you know?¡± ¡°Self-promoting at every chance huh.¡± ¡°DID YOU SAY SOMETHING!?¡± ¡°Nope, nothing.¡± Being stared at by Schleer, Saki turned away and whistled. Kisei had to narrow his eyes while wishing that they can get along a little better. ¡°So¡­¡­.we now know the position of the enemy¡¯s main force. What is our plan?¡± ¡°Ahh, that¡¯s right. I will explain the plan to you now. We will get pretty busy very soon after all.¡± At Schleer¡¯s nod, a blue-haired woman in a high-ranking officer uniform suddenly appeared at her side. She¡¯s someone Kisei met once when he first arrived at the [Radiant]. ¡°Solana, please do the explanation.¡± ¡°Understood, ma¡¯am.¡± The woman nods with a serious expression and sophisticatedly bows to Kisei. Indeed, this woman is a military officer who received first-class training. ¡°I¡¯m the Martial Lord, Colonel Solana Wilbent. I must apologize for not introducing myself the other day.¡± In the Vuld aristocratic system, an aristocrat may be given an official position instead of a territory. A Martial Lord is one of such positions. In terms of rank, hers is the equivalent of Marchioness but her official position is in the army. In Calencia, her nobility status should be quite powerful. ¡°A Martial Lord? That¡¯s amazing considering that you are so young.¡± ¡°I was only pressed into this position by my mother. I still have a long way to go.¡± Without acting shy at his praise like most women, Solana replied so and cleared her throat with a small cough. ¡°From the location of the enemy¡¯s main force, we were able to predict their plan. We think that the first target of their operation is planet Leboir Alpha, in the Leboir system.¡± ¡°Leboir? I see, so that¡¯s their plan huh.¡± Saki groaned. However, for Kisei who is unfamiliar with this area, he is clueless about the significance of that name. Noticing that, Solana further elaborates. ¡°The Leboir system is a small star system with one red dwarf at its center and a small rocky planet with almost no atmosphere orbiting it. The supply base on that planet has been established as a relay point for the operations of our based squadrons.¡± A Based Squadron is a unit consisting of small crafts like strikers and missile vessels that operate from fortresses instead of motherships. Since they do not have a mothership, they have a fixed operation range but in a defensive scenario, they can be quite useful since they can deploy strikers in large numbers. ¡°If the enemy takes control of this supply base and repurpose it into their striker base then the Noredian strikers will be able to invade the capital using only the ride boosters. The Noredian army will be able to assert dominance over us and the Calencia empire will stand no chance of winning this war.¡± ¡°So they do not plan to only utilize the prowess of their fleets alone huh.¡± ¡°Yes. From the calculation based on the Noredian main force¡¯s location, their fleet will have to pass through the Leboir system before it reaches the capital. Also, the base at Leboir Alpha, albeit not well-equipped, they still have some defensive equipment.¡± ¡°If they planned to invade your capital using only their fleets then they would have no need to go out of their way and choose this route right.¡± ¡°Yes¡­¡­I am ashamed to say but not all routes to the capital have fortresses defending them.¡± Said Schleer while diverting her eyes away from Kisei. The Calencia empire is a small country. And due to budget issues, it is not possible for them to construct fortresses on all routes. ¡°That¡¯s why we decided to establish a defensive line around Leboir Alpha. Fortunately, it shouldn¡¯t take long to do that since our main force is located near the Leboir system.¡± ¡°But if that¡¯s the case then is this situation not bad for us, Colonel? Considering our current position, the enemy may arrive at Leboir earlier than us right?¡± Saki raised a point. Currently, the 3rd Fleet is a little too far to intercept the enemy. If the Noredian fleets head straight toward the Leboir system, they might not be able to make it in time for the first engagement. ¡°Well, since our main force will be in charge of directly engaging the enemy¡­¡­.we should think of ourselves as a flanking unit instead.¡± ¡°Is, is that so.¡± Saki was worried that everything would be over before she could get a turn. ¡°Well, that¡¯s why we are currently heading toward the Leboir system at full speed. It will be some time so please take a good rest for now.¡± ¡°So it will be a while before we deploy? I understand. Hokuto, let¡¯s go. You are hungry right. I will treat you to something.¡± When the conversation was concluded, Saki pulled Kisei¡¯s hand and started walking away. Seeing that, Schleer chased after them in a hurry. ¡°Pl, please wait. I have a little free time as well! I won¡¯t let you two go alone!¡± Behind the three who are steadily moving away, Solana let out a long sigh. CH 26 Personal Talk The battlecruiser [Radiant] has a number of small dining rooms for high-ranking aristocrats. The room and Schleer guided Kisei and Saki to was one of those rooms. ¡°OHH, STEAK! It¡¯s been a while.¡± Seeing the big steak on the plate, Kisei raised a cheer. The steaming meat is giving off a very appetizing fragrance. ¡°I¡¯m sorry about the synthetic meat¡­¡­we are during wartime so¨C¡± ¡°No, please don¡¯t worry. I don¡¯t mind even if it isn¡¯t organic. This is plenty enough for me. Anyway, I¡¯m digging in.¡± After he smiled and put his hands together, Kisei immediately cut a bite-sized piece and put it into his mouth. The gravy overflowed from the piece of steak and it was seasoned with plenty of spices. One couldn¡¯t tell that it was made from synthetic protein from the taste at all. In this era, most of the products in circulation be it meat or vegetables are synthetic or genetically modified bio-foods. Of course, natural organic foods taste better but they have become extremely expensive in this era and are no longer something that you can have every day. ¡°Yup, it¡¯s delicious. Even if it¡¯s synthetic, this steak is really nice, isn¡¯t it? It¡¯s much more delicious than the meat I usually eat too.¡± ¡°You are kidding right? A mercenary with your level of skills should be raking in money right? You should have plenty of money to eat organic meat every day right?¡± Saki teasingly smiles at Kisei while wildly chomping down on her steak. There should be a lot of clients who would be willing to pay an exorbitant amount of money to hire a mercenary with superhuman skills like Kisei. He should be even richer than some lower-class aristocrats, or so Saki thinks. ¡°No way, the meat I normally eat is the lowest-grade one you know. I don¡¯t have any money after all.¡± ¡°Eh.¡± His reply not only surprised Saki but Schleer as well so the two reflexively looked at each other. ¡°At least in my case, I think that I have given you a reasonable amount as prepayment though¡­¡­..¡± ¡°Ahh, that. I don¡¯t have that money anymore.¡± ¡°Did you use it all in a casino!?¡± Leaving a mercenary who has to maintain their own striker aside, a mercenary like Kisei who jumps from battle to battle by himself should not be able to spend that amount of money in such a short time. It doesn¡¯t seem that he spent it all buying some precious ornaments or buying himself a spaceship either. ¡°Well, it¡¯s not like that¡­¡­you see, I send it all back to my family. We are in debt after all.¡± ¡°A, Oh¡­¡­.you did say something about the debt your dad left you huh.¡± ¡°What¡¯s that. I haven¡¯t heard anything about this at all.¡± Schleer unpleasantly looked at Saki. ¡°Maybe he doesn¡¯t trust you enough to talk to you about it right.¡± ¡°Ha?¡± ¡°Well, I don¡¯t want to spread my family¡¯s shame everywhere I go after all¡­¡­.there was no right timing to bring it up too.¡± ¡®Also, please don¡¯t make me talk while I¡¯m eating¡¯, Kisei continued while narrowing his eyes. ¡°Well, that¡¯s true¡­¡­.it¡¯s a hard thing to talk about after all.¡± ¡°Unnn, I¡¯m sorry but can you tell me more about it? Of course, I will not tell others about this, I swear on my honor as a knight.¡± With a little hesitation, Schleer decided to ask. She knows that it¡¯s a rude question but she doesn¡¯t like that Saki knows what she doesn¡¯t. Also, she thought that she could help if his problem is a serious one too. ¡°I¡¯m not really hiding this so I don¡¯t mind though¡­¡­..¡± What are you going to do about it once you know, that is the only question Kisei has. ¡°Well, it¡¯s not that rare of a story you know. My dad left us a huge debt and ran away. My sister had a supposed incurable disease that cost a lot of money to treat. That¡¯s where my money went.¡± ¡®My sister was cured a while ago though¡¯ Kisei continued with a smile as he brought another piece of steak to his mouth. However, Schleer couldn¡¯t return that smile. ¡°Why was your father the one who borrowed¡­¡­rather, what became of your mother?¡± According to Vuld common sense, men rarely make debts. After all, they don¡¯t have much opportunity to go out in the first place. The reality of Vuld society is that there is not that much chance for men to interact with money. ¡°She died. Everyone in my mother¡¯s family is born with a weak body¡­¡­.my mother was no exception. Back then there were a lot of things going on with my family besides my father¡¯s debt so she probably couldn¡¯t bear it and passed.¡± ¡°Ah, so she was a single mother huh. Are you an aristocrat?¡± ¡°Terran¡¯s marriages are monogamy so we do not have that many mothers like the Vuldes you know¡­¡­¡± With Vuld¡¯s highly biased birth rates, it is common for a normal family to be polygamous except for some high-ranking aristocrats. As a result, they usually have a lot of mothers. Sisters often share a single husband so oftentimes due to a large number of children, they do not care which child is whose. ¡°Th, that¡­.must have been hard on you. My condolences¡­¡­.¡± Schleer almost dropped the fork in her hand. She gently adjusts her grip and puts the fork on her plate while taking a deep breath. ¡°Your Highness, is this not the time that you can show off your worth as a woman?¡± ¡°Y, Yes. I will consider increasing your reward. After all, you have brought us many unexpected results in this war. I will get in contact with our financial department and¡­..¡± ¡°Oh, please don¡¯t worry. I was already content with the agreed amount. As a pro, I can not possibly ask for more. Please, there¡¯s no need to adjust my reward.¡± ¡°N, no way.¡± Schleer looks like it¡¯s the end of the world. It¡¯s a code of chivalry to extend your hand out for those in need. Especially when the other party is a man. However, she can¡¯t help someone who refuses to be helped. ¡°If, if it¡¯s like this then I will just have to support you all your life¡­¡­¡­.¡± ¡°Just what part of your brain led you to that conclusion.¡± Completely forgetting his manner, Kisei retorted. CH 27 The No-Killing Principle ¡°But¡­¡­..hey.¡± The one who broke the awkward silence was Saki as she continued to play with the green pea on her plate with her fork. ¡°You are a nice guy you know. Paying back your parent¡¯s debt¡­.taking down your enemies by targeting the engine when you don¡¯t have to. All that.¡± ¡°You didn¡¯t target the enemy pilots earlier too, right, Makishima-san.¡± Saki bitterly smiles at Kisei¡¯s words. It appears that even during the earlier fierce battle, Kisei was paying attention to Saki too. ¡°I only do that when I think I can. I mean, it isn¡¯t like I prefer killing people after all. At least, I wouldn¡¯t actively aim at the cockpit.¡± Said Saki as she stabbed the green pea she had been playing with and brought it to her mouth. ¡°Still, I am not as steadfast as you, okay. If I have no other choice, I wouldn¡¯t hesitate to target the cockpit. You are different right? No matter what, you would do anything to leave the pilots unharmed. That¡¯s some guts you have there you know.¡± ¡°Eh, does that mean¡­¡­even in the earlier battle, Kisei-san was only targeting the engine too?¡± ¡°Well, that¡¯s the case but¡­¡­.¡± With a fed-up expression, Kisei turned his eyes away. Not only in this job, but his former employers had also complained about this as well. Although Vuld is an aggressive race, they still hold senseless killing in contempt like Terran. However, it is still a fact that you would be endangering your comrades if you always worry about your enemy¡¯s well-being. That¡¯s why many don¡¯t like this particular practice of Kisei. ¡°Kisei-san, uhh¡­of course, I do think avoiding senseless loss of lives is a virtue but, I don¡¯t think that it would be worth endangering yourself.¡± Schleer looks worriedly at Kisei. ¡°Well, I really can¡¯t do anything about this.¡± After saying that in a tone that makes his answer sounds like an excuse, Kisei continues eating his already chilled steak. ¡°Indeed, I don¡¯t aim for pilots because I hate seeing people die but¡­¡­.there¡¯s a reason why I hate it so much.¡± ¡°A reason?¡± Schleer asked nervously. ¡°I think I¡¯ve told Makishima-san about this before¡­..I actually read my opponent¡¯s thoughts through the I-con system. That¡¯s how I can react to their actions during battles.¡± The I-con system is a type of Brain-Machine interface system that comes as standard equipment for every striker. Its functions are to read the pilot¡¯s brainwaves and interpret them as commands to the striker. ¡°Only Lt. Makishima again¡­¡­.¡± Schleer broody muttered to herself but there¡¯s no point going at Saki now so she decided to endure it. ¡°You did tell me about that huh.¡± Saki replied without caring about Schleer. It was hard to believe for her at first but after they survived an actual battle together, she can no longer deny it. ¡°So, if a person dies within the detection range of the I-con system¡­¡­.¡± ¡°Ah.¡± Understanding what Kisei¡¯s trying to say, Schleer involuntarily raised her voice. She already knows how ridiculously skilled he is so if the reason behind his power is the ability to read people¡¯s thoughts then it makes a lot of sense. ¡°Well, it doesn¡¯t just feel bad, you know. It¡¯s like a side effect of using the I-con too well. Unless you are the type of person that doesn¡¯t care about other human beings, it just doesn¡¯t feel right.¡± ¡°¡­¡­now I don¡¯t feel like doing it anymore, Oi.¡± Saki said with an extremely unpleasant expression. She took Kisei¡¯s advice the other day and tried to focus her mind during the battle to see if she could detect any enemy thoughts. There¡¯s no positive result so far but if that side effect is the price for such an ability then she doesn¡¯t want to try so hard anymore. After all, being overly sensitive to others¡¯ death would be more like a debuff instead. ¡°No matter how strong you are, to enter the battlefield like that is¡­¡­¡­¡± ¡°I don¡¯t even want to imagine it¡­¡­.¡± Schleer and Saki look at each other. Only now, the two¡¯s thoughts aligned. ¡°Even so, there¡¯s no suitable job for me aside from piloting a striker¡­¡­also, it¡¯s not all bad you know.¡± Kisei waved his hand at them as a gesture to ease their worry. It wouldn¡¯t do if they start feeling pity for him and keep him from piloting a striker after all. ¡°The universe seen through the I-con system is very beautiful, you know. The wills and emotions of people are so bright and colorful¡­¡­..it was like I was looking at the stars.¡± ¡°It sounds more like you are on drugs instead so can you not put it like that? I will get more worried instead.¡± ¡°No way.¡± Kisei protested. Seeing him like that, Schleer sighs. Personally, she wanted to keep Kisei away from the battlefield due to this side-effect of his ability but that is a luxury she can not afford due to the current situation of her country. After all, without Kisei¡¯s ability to turn the table on the Nored empire, her country will end up destroyed. ¡°L, let¡¯s stop talking about this. It would be a waste of a good meal after all.¡± In the end, Schleer could only change the topic. CH 28 Refreshments ¡°¡­¡­..having too good of a bed is a problem in itself huh.¡± A few hours later. Kisei woke up on his bed. He turns on his mobile terminal to check the time but it appears that there is still plenty of time before they arrive at Leboir. Then, after disabling the alarm he set which still hasn¡¯t gone off yet, he gets up from the bed. ¡°I can¡¯t get comfy if it¡¯s too fluffy after all.¡± If he has to be honest, he still hasn¡¯t recovered from his fatigue yet. However, being accustomed to cheap and stiff futons, he couldn¡¯t get a good sleep with this ultra-high-class bed. So, he gets up and stretches his arms. ¡°Phew¡­¡­.¡± After he took off his sleeping jersey and changed into his pilot suit, Kise headed to the door. He tried to operate the switch on the wall to open the door but he stopped himself and frowned. Letting out a small sigh, he pulled out his mobile terminal again. ¡°Makishima-san¡­¡­no, I guess I will contact Her Highness this time huh.¡± From Kisei¡¯s point of view, it is not good to trouble Schleer who should be busy with her work as the commander of this fleet. However, considering her earlier mood when he interacted with Saki, it would be better if he doesn¡¯t always go to Saki alone. ¡°Hmm, why do I have to do all this just to leave my room¡­¡­..¡± Since he already has her contact information, Kisei sends a message to Schleer¡¯s mobile terminal. ¡°Nn? Ah, AWAWAWA! IT¡¯S HERE!¡± Around the same time, Schleer, who was sitting in her command seat at the bridge, suddenly jumped up with her mobile terminal in hands and all eyes inside the bridge gathered to her at once. ¡°What is it!? Is it the enemy, ma¡¯am?¡± Solana, who was by her side, went fully alert. However, Schleer answered her question with a cheerful smile.¡± ¡°N, No, it¡¯s just a message! My first ever message from a man! YAHOOO!¡± ¡°Ha?¡± Solana¡¯s expression turned terribly grim. ¡°Your Highness, we are in the middle of an operation.¡± ¡°I, I¡¯m sorry. But right now we still have free time right!¡± Currently, the [Radiant] is traveling in FTL Navigation mode. It will take them some time to arrive at their targeted location and there are very few ways to attack a ship mid-FTL flight. Since the strategy meeting and mission brief have already been completed, there¡¯s no problem even if Schleer leaves the bridge for a while. ¡°¡­¡­Haa, can¡¯t be helped then. Please come back within an hour, Your Highness.¡± ¡°Of course! Well then!¡± Seeing Schleer sprinted away from the bridge at full speed, Solana let out another sigh. ¡°Damn it¡­..so enviable¡­¡­.¡± After a while, Schleer and Kisei are making their way toward the hangar. Kisei is pushing a trolley carrying a cardboard box with the word coffee written on it. ¡°U, Uhh¡­..can I help you with that?¡± ¡°Eh, Why!?¡± Kisei was surprised at Schleer¡¯s sudden proposal. After all, she¡¯s his employer and although hers is only a small country, she¡¯s still a princess. Why does someone like that offer to push a trolley so readily? ¡°I mean, as a knight, letting a man carry heavy luggage is a little¡­¡­.anyway, it damages my dignity as a lady.¡± ¡°Well, before being a man, I am a mercenary¡­¡­¡­do you think there is a mercenary out there that would make his employer carry his luggage?¡± ¡°Uh¡­..well¡­..I don¡¯t want our relationship to be so dry like an employer and employee though.¡± When Schleer turned her eyes away and said that, Kisei had a weirded-out expression on his face. When she realized that she just dug her own grave again, Schleer decided to quickly change the topic. ¡°By the way, why did you buy that box of coffee?¡± The box of coffee was purchased a few minutes ago by Kisei at one of the ship¡¯s vendors. This vendor is run by a trading company that has special authorization by the government, not by the army. Each time they arrive at a port, they would purchase goods and stock them up to later sell them to the crews. ¡°It¡¯s just refreshment. I think that the maintenance crew should be about done with the Caliburn¡¯s maintenance after all.¡± ¡°Ah, so it¡¯s for the maintenance crews¡­¡­.eh, have you been doing this every time you visit them!?¡± ¡°Well, it¡¯s not every time but¡­..they are working on a strange modified prototype striker like the [Caliburn-Revive] aren¡¯t they. I think that it¡¯s not something that is easy to maintain so¨C.¡± Originally, the [Caliburn-Revive] was a non-combat striker that was forcibly remodeled and deployed in actual battle. From the mechanics¡¯ point of view, it must have been a nightmare to modify it correctly. Moreover, they will have to thoroughly check it so that strange defects do not rear its head during battle. Thinking so, Kisei thought that he should at least bring them some refreshments as compensation for their hard work. ¡°I can¡¯t fly a striker if I don¡¯t have someone to maintain it for me so I just want to build a good relationship with them. That¡¯s all.¡± ¡°I see¡­¡­so that¡¯s the case.¡± Schleer nodded, a little surprised. Naturally, Schleer underestimates the contribution of those who work in the background like the maintenance crews. However, she has never given special care to them either. ¡°As expected of Kisei-san¡­¡­..but I guess I shouldn¡¯t say that. After all, if I just noticed this after you brought it up, I¡¯d already failed as their superior.¡± Schleer sighs to herself. As a princess, it is important to show her dignity to her soldiers but since the Calencia empire is but a small country, the distance between royalty, aristocrats, and common soldiers is much closer than in the Nored empire. Perhaps, openly showing her appreciation toward her subordinates like Kisei might be a good thing for her to do, Schleer thinks. ¡°I see¡­¡­.My apologies, I think I will head back to the shop for a bit. I ought to give them some refreshments myself.¡± ¡°No, a princess handing out refreshments to her subordinates directly would be a little too inappropriate though¡­¡­¡± ¡°Is, is that the case?¡± Realizing that she¡¯s being quite casual with her subordinates like Saki and Solana despite her standing as a princess, Schleer averts her eyes with cold sweat dripping down her back. Since her royal family is a small one, it¡¯s hard for her to act overbearing like the Noredian aristocrats. In the first place, Schleer prefers the current status quo where her subordinates can be honest with her like this. ¡°Sometimes, rather than giving them something, it is better to just honestly say thank you¡­¡­.Ah, giving your subordinates an appropriate amount of bonus is a different matter, okay? No subordinate likes a stingy boss after all.¡± ¡°Y, Yes, of course!¡± Schleer hurriedly nodded. ¡°Thank you¡­¡­.thank you huh. I understand. I will try telling them.¡± ¡°That¡¯s the spirit.¡± Seeing Kisei answer her with a smile, Schleer¡¯s cheeks turned red as she nodded to him. CH 29 A Worrisome Striker ¡°Ah, thank you, we are troubling you every time.¡± One of the maintenance crew received a coffee can from Kisei with a shy smile. She is the chief mechanic in charge of the [Caliburn-Revive] who explained its specs to him the other day. ¡°It¡¯s me who¡¯s troubling you a lot after all.¡± Kisei smiles and glances at the [Caliburn-Revive] on the maintenance bay. As he expected, the maintenance had already been completed. Since it did not suffer any damage in the previous battle, all they had to do was replenishing the ammunition and fuels along with some standard maintenance checks. ¡°It worths all the hard work when you put it like that.¡± The chief mechanic replied while shyly scratching her cheek. Next to her, a mechanic who¡¯s probably her subordinate pops opens the coffee can with a big smile. ¡°You said it, Chief. There are a lot of pilots who wouldn¡¯t appreciate our work and make fun of us after all. I¡¯m glad that Hokuto-sn is not that type you know. It does feel a little like we are taking advantage of your goodwill when you are being so kind to us though.¡± While sipping on the coffee can, the chief mechanic shows a bitter smile. ¡°If you have a near-death experience because of poor maintenance work then there¡¯s no way that you wouldn¡¯t appreciate the work of a good maintenance crew you know.¡± ¡°A near-death experience? If it¡¯s alright with you, can you share that with us? You see, for reference.¡± Feeling a chill running down her neck, the chief mechanic reflexively asked for more details. After all, in her line of work, ¡®Poor Maintenance¡¯ is not the words that she¡¯d ever want to hear. ¡°Well, it¡¯s not that rare of an accident you know. I forgot to refill the coolant liquid and the valve got all clogged up¡­¡­and there was this faulty seal I forgot to replace so the coolant just started leaking. This happened when I was surrounded by enemies too.¡± ¡°Geh.¡± The chief mechanic¡¯s face immediately cramped up. The same reaction was shared among the mechanics who were listening to his story with great interest. And their reaction is reasonable. The coolant liquid works as a heat-transfer-fluid that collects the heat from various parts of the machine and circulates it to the cooling device which will, in turn, circulate it back to regulate the heat of the machine. If it all leaks out, at worst, the phase transition turbine which is the main engine would literally go up in flames. ¡°Wh, what happened after that?¡± A young mechanic nervously asked and Kisei could only smile bitterly at her. ¡°Fortunately, it didn¡¯t all leak out since the pressure was not that high so I gradually made my way back to base. Honestly, I thought I was going to die back then.¡± ¡°Well¡­¡­.¡± The chief mechanic looks at Kisei with hollowed eyes. In such a situation where the seal broke and coolant started to leak, no striker should be able to move properly. The chief mechanic was quite impressed that he managed to hull his striker back from the battlefield. ¡°That¡¯s why, you see, honestly saying¡­¡­I¡¯m not very good with the brand-new one-of-a-kind striker. You don¡¯t know what kind of technical problem will suddenly appear after all.¡± Not to mention that the [Caliburn-Revive] is a rush-job remodeled striker which was put through actual combat after only one test flight. It is rather difficult to not feel anxious piloting it. ¡°It¡¯s okay!¡­¡­..that¡¯s what we wanted to say but we are actually pretty concerned about this too.¡± ¡°At least, it would be nice if we can get more test runs, right Chief.¡± A young mechanic voiced her agreement to the chief mechanic¡¯s concern. No matter how many times you run a simulation, there are problems that you will notice only when you actually pilot it after all. To the maintenance crew, they honestly can¡¯t say that they are completely alright with putting such a striker in actual combat scenarios. ¡°So, if you found something strange, please make sure to tell me about it. When something goes wrong it will make all kinds of differences if you know about it beforehand after all.¡± ¡°Even if you say that.¡± If they notice those strange things then they wouldn¡¯t have a hard time like this. The chief mechanic thought. ¡°Ahh, come to think about it, I¡¯m kinda concerned about the regenerative armor.¡± ¡°Certainly.¡± When another mechanic brought that up, the chief mechanic concurred. ¡°Originally, the [Caliburn-Revive] was only equipped with minimal armor to defend against debris¡­¡­..we forcibly installed the regenerative armor we prepared for the [Excalibur] to it, you see. We did some fitting already but¡­.the charge might still flow to some unintended parts.¡± Regenerative armor is a type of armor system that converts kinetic energy and heat of the shell/beams into electric charge to minimize damage to the striker. Even a single beam can generate a lot of power on impact so if it doesn¡¯t get managed properly then the charge may cause damage to other equipment instead. ¡°I prefer old school so I think that¡¯s going to be alright. I have a mindset that even a single hit can spell the end for me after all.¡± Although the older models do have regenerative armor, the converted power would usually exceed the limit of the small capacitor. That¡¯s the reason why older models like the [Jetta] can be shot down with only one blaster beam. ¡°Well, there¡¯s no pilot that would want to get hit after all. I felt this is irresponsible of me since I am in charge of the maintenance but¡­.please do be careful.¡± ¡°Of course.¡± Kisei obediently nodded. After all, he doesn¡¯t want to die. That¡¯s why he needs to take their advice seriously. ¡°Well¡­¡­.does any of you have anything else? ¡° ¡°Yes YES! I HAVE ONE!¡± A flippant mechanic energetically raised her hand. The chief engineer narrowed her eyes in hesitation for a moment before deciding to hear her out. ¡°¡­¡­.what.¡± ¡°Kisei-san, what¡¯s your favorite type of w¡ª¡­¡­OUCH OUCH OUCH!¡± The chief mechanic moved in and immediately strangled her subordinate. ¡°You, don¡¯t get carried away just because you haven¡¯t seen a man in a while!¡± ¡°Ouch! That hurt, Chief! When you meet such a cute man, it would be rude instead if you do not offer the courtesy right!¡± ¡°Stop messing around already!¡± ¡°Uwah! I give up, I give up!¡± Seeing the screaming mechanic, Kisei let out a small sigh. At least he would be happy if she called him cool instead but unfortunately, Kisei is only 165cm tall, he¡¯s shorter than your average Vuld woman. Even if he tries to sweep his eyes around to see if there¡¯s anyone shorter than him here, most of them are taller than Kisei. Moreover, due to his natural babyface, he¡¯s often called cute by women. ¡°Is this sexual harassment? It is right?¡± The one who raised her voice during all that fuss was Schleer. When they arrived at the hangar, She took Kisei¡¯s advice and went to see the mechanics in charge of her striker. The fact that she¡¯s here means that she¡¯s already finished talking to them. ¡°Ah, it¡¯s the Sexual Harassment Princess.¡± ¡°No matter how lax our country is on formality, there¡¯s still something that you should and shouldn¡¯t say right!?¡± Schleer flared up at the flippant mechanic. ¡°I mean, Your Highness did quite a sexual harassment on Hokuto-san when he first arrived didn¡¯t you.¡± However, she was immediately betrayed by someone who she thought was her ally, the Chief Mechanic. ¡°Besides, Your Highness always tags along wherever Kisei-san goes, aren¡¯t you?¡± ¡°Is this not an abuse of power?¡± ¡°It¡¯s too envi¡ª-I mean it¡¯s just shameless. Let¡¯s call the MP here.¡± ¡°S, S, Shut up! Let¡¯s go! Kisei-san!¡± Perhaps seeing a bad flag as her subordinates started to gang up on her, Schleer hurriedly pulled Kisei¡¯s hand and ran away. A burst of loud laughter can be heard from the hangar. Naturally, they were just teasing her. It appears that Schleer, who doesn¡¯t get angry when her subordinates teased her like this, is unexpectedly popular. CH 30 The Queen The only planet in the Leboir system, Leboir Alpha is a small planet covered in whitish rocks. Its gravity is extremely weak and its atmosphere is thin enough that it¡¯s practically a vacuum. Although it is a barren planet that is unsuitable for terraforming, its characteristics give quite a convenient environment for a space military base. ¡°How¡¯s our battle formation.¡± At the bridge of the [Glorious], flagship of the Calencian army, which has landed on the pure white plain of Leboir Alpha, Queen Alisha Henrietta asked with a dignified voice. Her long shiny white hair and valiant expression are so beautiful that it¡¯s unbelievable that she already has a 20 years old daughter. ¡°The 1st and 2nd fleets have arrived at their designated positions. All ships are deploying [Active Stealth], ma¡¯am.¡± The Active Stealth device installed on Calencian ships are all outdated models but it should be effective enough since their ships are hiding behind the planet. They have already predicted that the Noredian fleets would rush straight to Leboir Alpha and deploy their ground troops to try to take control of the base. Being inferior in terms of fighting power, the only hope the Calencia empire has to win this war is to avoid frontal engagement and rely on guerilla warfare. In that sense, the strategy the Nored empire chose this time is convenient for them. (Even so, our chances are not that good¡­¡­¡­) While muttering to herself, Alisha looks at her available forces displaying on the monitor at her hand. 6 battleships and 14 large-type cruisers. Even if she counts the 3rd fleet, the number of fleets they have is only half of the Noredian fleets. Their number is not nearly enough even if they take their defensive advantages into account. (It¡¯s sad to say but the only hope we can count on is a single mercenary.) Alisha also received the report that Kisei incapacitated one of the enemy¡¯s battleships. For the Calencian army that has been suffering a losing streak, it¡¯s the first good news in quite a long time. It is idiotic to count on a single soldier to change the tide of war between nations but they have no choice but to place their hope on him. ¡°What about the forces outside our fleets?¡± ¡°300 strikers and 50 missile vessels of the based squadrons have arrived, ma¡¯am.¡± The staff replied. ¡°In addition, 200 multi-legged tanks from the planetary defense force have joined us as well.¡± The bridge¡¯s front monitor displays crab-like metallic vehicles climbing the steep hill of Leboir Alpha. All of these crab-like machines have a large turret mounted on their back. These weapons are called multi-legged tanks. Equipped with a fusion reactor, each of these tanks can traverse any terrain using their legs and anti-gravity lifters. They can be used not only in a 1G environment but also in low gravity environments like this planet. Since their mode of mobility relies on their legs, they are significantly slower than strikers. However, this is compensated by their superior firepower. They are quite reliable in a defensive battle. ¡°I see. We have enough.¡± That was a lie. This is far from enough. However, she can not make herself look weak in front of her subordinates. So, she half-forces her face to smile. ¡°What about the enemy? It wouldn¡¯t be strange if their scouts are here already¡­¡­¡± ¡°It¡¯s no use, ma¡¯am. Our sensors can not pick up anything from the surrounding star systems with this much jamming signal.¡± ¡°They strengthened their jamming to counter the 3rd Fleet¡¯s reconnaissance huh. Certainly, the enemy seems to have a fairly powerful electronic warfare cruiser¡­¡­¡± Remembering her previous battles, Alisha moans. There were a number of battles where their search and communication capability were compromised and they¡¯ve lost even before they can make heads or tails of the situation. Judging from this, the Noredian¡¯s capability of electronic warfare is quite high. ¡°Still, we have the advantage of the land. Once the battle begins, we shouldn¡¯t fall behind that much.¡± The fortified Leboir Alpha already has a wired communication network for the entire planet. If they link this communication network with a communication method that can not be easily jammed like Laser Communication, no matter how strong the enemy jammers are, they should be able to coordinate their army. ¡°However, we still do not know when they will launch their attack, ma¡¯am. Should we dispatch a recon unit?¡± ¡°No¡­¡­.even if we send out a recon unit, the enemy will just shoot them down. We can not afford to lose our fighting power any more than this. Tell the pilots to standby for scrambling.¡± ¡°Roger that.¡± The staff did not protest and acknowledged her order. However, her expression is anxious. If the Leboir system is taken, the Calencia empire¡¯s defeat would be certain. Conversely, telling them to relax would sound unreasonable instead. ¡°Is¡­..is my striker ready to deploy?¡± ¡°¡­¡­.at any time, ma¡¯am.¡± ¡°Good. depending on the situation, I will head out myself.¡± In the worst-case scenario, she may need to take command at the frontline herself. No army can recover if their morale is broken. Still, if it comes to that, it might be too late already. Alisha thought to herself and let out a small laugh. ¡°If Misha is here, she would be able to take that role for me. Well,¡­¡­..there¡¯s nothing I can do about that.¡± Misha is Schleer¡¯s sister. She is both an excellent commander as well as a great pilot. If Misha hops on a striker and commands the frontline, she would surely do a better job than Alisha. However, unfortunately, Misha was seriously injured in the previous battle and she is now being treated at the hospital in the capital. There is no danger to her life but she can not possibly return to the frontline in her current state. Alisha has many daughters besides Misha and Schleers but the two are the only daughters that have any talent for warfare. That¡¯s why Alisha has no choice but to go to the frontline herself. ¡°Well, for the time being, there¡¯s nothing we can do but wait.¡± The moment Alisha said that, the operator in charge of the detection network shouts. ¡°The reconnaissance satellite detects high-mass reactions! They are exiting FTL navigation, ma¡¯am! Judging from the number and size, there¡¯s no doubt, it¡¯s the enemy¡¯s main force!¡± ¡°They¡¯re here!¡± Regardless of the jamming signal, if it¡¯s within the same star system, their detection network would naturally work. Hearing the report, Alisha sprang up from her command seat. ¡°They immediately sent in their main force huh, it seems they are planning to go all out from the start. How long do we have until contact!?¡± ¡°20 minutes to contact! They exited right between the Connecting Sector and the closest route to Leboir Alpha, ma¡¯am!¡± The Connecting Sector is the space suitable for entering and exiting FTL navigation. Since FTL navigation can be strongly affected by gravity, it is necessary to operate the FTL drive in a specific sector at the outer edge of star systems for safety¡¯s sake. Once you arrive at your destinated star system, what you will use instead is the sub-lightspeed means of traveling which has the FTL technology applied. To modern warships, a small star system like this is but a small garden. This means that the enemy fleets will arrive at Leboir Alpha in no time. ¡°Ugh, they aimed for this timing since they planned a surprise attack on us from the start huh! Prepare for combat!¡± Alisha loudly yelled out her command. However, some of the based squadrons and planetary defense forces have just arrived at Leboir Alpha. It would be difficult to get them all ready for combat in just 20 minutes. (The 3rd Fleet¡­..No, can¡¯t Schleer get here soon? Aah, God!) Alisha prayed in her heart. CH 31 Battle of Leboir [1] ¡°Fumu, all according to plan so far huh.¡± Diaroze looks at the topographic map of Leboir Alpha as she plays with her whip. Currently, the Noredian fleets are in the high orbit of Leboir Alpha. There is not even a shadow of their enemy so far but it is clear that the Calencian is hiding their forces on the surface of the planet. ¡°Your Highness, what do you think of this?¡± ¡°What do I think? Isn¡¯t that obvious, the enemies are inferior to us both in terms of quantity and quality. The only strategy they can afford right now is guerilla warfare.¡± With her arms crossed, Diaroze answered her subordinate with a stern expression as though to ask why her subordinate raised such a stupid question. ¡°If that is how they are going to play it then our course of action is already decided. Crush them head-on, do not give them any chance to gain the initiative. We are going to thoroughly destroy whatever it is they are planning.¡± Saying so, she pointed at Leboir Alpha depicted on the main monitor with her whip. ¡°Advance my ship forward. Have the other ships standby in the rear, tell them to be ready to move at my command.¡± ¡°Do you plan to make yourself a decoy, Your Highness!?¡± The flagship [Odelvansen] is a large battleship belonging to the Noredian imperial family. It is a very noticeable ship since it is painted in black and gold, unlike the other Noredian ships which are painted in red. To lead the charge with such a prominent ship would be like asking the enemy to focus fire on them. ¡°Of course. The bigger the prey, the bigger the bait has to be. Their plan is to hide and earn as much time as possible right? It would be beyond foolish to search each and every rock on this planet one by one to find them!¡± From orbit, It¡¯s impossible to find the well-disguised Calencian fleets. Normally, they would have no other choice but to descend their fleet and search the planet from up close. However, in this era, the basic of surface-orbit warfare is that the higher you are the more disadvantageous you will be. The reason being that you would have nowhere to hide and the enemy would be able to spot you easily. That¡¯s why in such a surface-orbit battle, the invading force must descend close to the surface. Still, with the risk of collision with the surface, the ship¡¯s speed must be greatly reduced, making them vulnerable to artillery fire. ¡°Besides, it doesn¡¯t matter even if this ship gets hit by their artillery. This [Odelvansen] is equipped with special armor plates, you know? Obviously, I¡¯m going to use it.¡± ¡°M, my apology, ma¡¯am!¡± Intimidated by Diaroze, the subordinate scarily apologized. Her voice was very beautiful but it also held the violent tone that made it sound like the listener could be struck by her whip at any time. To put it more directly, her voice was one that does not allow her subordinates to defy her. ¡°If you understand that already then hurry up and get us close to the surface! A stray dog is even more valuable than soldiers who can¡¯t even obey their orders alright!¡± ¡°Yes, ma¡¯am! Rudder as is, reverse thrust 30 seconds burn!¡± ¡°Rudder as is, reverse thrust 30 seconds burn.¡± The helmsman repeated the command of the captain and every thruster of the [Odelvansen] fired reverse thrust to decelerate. The surrounding ships started to withdraw behind as the [Odelvansen] slowed down to surface speed. Just like that, they slowly descend and the Leboir Alpha underneath appears to gradually grow larger. ¡°Arriving at Leboir Alpha¡¯s periapsis, Altitude 30,000 feet. We are estimated to be within the enemy artillery range now, ma¡¯am.¡± (TLN: Periapsis = the point in an orbit of X that is closest to X¡¯s body) ¡°Decelerate. Maintain altitude at 30,000. Load the main cannons with HE rounds.¡± (TLN: HE = High-Explosive) The main thrusters of the [Odelvansen] emit a faint jet flame and immediately turn silent. Since Leboir Alpha¡¯s gravity is very weak, only a minimal amount of thrust is required to accelerate or decelerate on this planet. ¡°Now then. The rest is just waiting for them to bite the bait. Fortunately¡ª¨Cit appears that they do hate me quite a bit. The impatient mongrels will probably show themselves soon. Kukuku¡­¡­..¡± Diaroze said with a fearless smile. Then after a short moment, her prediction was proven to be correct. ¡°Extreme heat signal detected. Incoming enemy fire!¡± After 10 minutes of waiting, the operator in charge of enemy detection shouted in a tense voice. And faster than the captain could issue the evasive command a green beam hit the hull of the [Odelvansen]. However, the beam could not penetrate the [Odelvansen]¡¯s armor and only its paint was burned. The ship displays its great defensive capability that is worthy of Diaroze¡¯s trust. ¡°Alright! Find out the point of origin!¡± Since they were deploying their sensors at full power as they were intending to act as a decoy from the beginning, they immediately found out where the enemy¡¯s shot originated from. A telephoto image captured by the ship¡¯s optical camera is being displayed on the monitor. The image depicts several strikers equipped with a huge artillery unit that is even taller than the strikers. Its muzzle is aiming at the [Odelvansen]. ¡°Tsk, just the mobile artillery units huh. Whatever, they should not be that far apart from each other¡­.. Notify all ships to descend on this location! The [Odelvansen] will return fire! We will land once we are done providing covering fire for the other ships.¡± ¡°Yes, ma¡¯am. Main cannons, take aim!¡± With the altitude control thrusters fired, the giant hull of the [Odelvansen] turns at a speed that doesn¡¯t match its size. The muzzles of the 4 triple-turret-composite guns turn toward the location of the enemy artillery strikers. ¡°Aiming completed.¡± ¡°All guns! Open fire!¡± Following the captain¡¯s command, all main cannons fired at once. What they fired were not beams but physical shells. In this era, all battleships are equipped with composite guns which function as both blaster and linear guns. And for the convenience of resupplying the ammunition for these guns, it is customary that the blaster output and the shell caliber of the composite gun are the same. In the case of the [Odelvansen], its main cannons can fire 50Mw blaster beams. In other words, they were also built to fire 50cm shells. ¡°Fumu, crushing the enemy is pleasant as always.¡± Naturally, the Calencian strikers which received a salvo from the [Odelvansen] disappeared without a trace. The location they were at is now reduced to a large crater. ¡°But this is not enough. Entertain me more, Calencia army.¡± Said Diaroze with a cruel smile. CH 32 Battle of Leboir [2] ¡°Who ordered them to shoot! Who!¡± Queen Alisha was furious. The essential part of their plan is to keep the enemy in the dark about their whereabouts as long as possible. Since their force is much smaller than that of the Noredian army, the Calencian side deployed their forces densely together. Now that the enemy has predicted their location, the Noredian fleets would descend right next to them. ¡°I already gave my order. Why did they shoot!¡± ¡°Our soldiers bear a lot of grudge against the enemy general¡­¡­¡­against Diaroze. They probably couldn¡¯t let the chance go when she came out to the frontline unprotected.¡± ¡°Unprotected? That¡¯s obviously a decoy! Do you think we have a weapon that can pierce through that battleship at this distance!?¡± ¡°¡­..No, ma¡¯am.¡± The staff haggardly replied. Then, another staff member, who was beside Alisha, speaks to her with an impatient expression. ¡°Your Majesty, some of our units still haven¡¯t finished deploying yet. If we can not buy more time then they will not be able to fight!¡± ¡°I already know that!¡± The Based Squadrons and the Planetary Defense Force were transported here by the slow civilian transport ships. Since they arrived late, it will take some time before they can get into battle formation. If they are attacked when their preparation still isn¡¯t ready, they will not be able to put up a proper fight. ¡°Tell the troops at the front to withdraw. We can not afford our forces to get taken down one by one. Have them man the defensive equipment at the bases and redraw the line of defense. Tell the fleets to withdraw too.¡± Alisha gave her order. However, her subordinates in the field are in no condition to accurately obey her order. ¡°There¡¯s too many! We can¡¯t handle them all alone!¡± ¡°RETREAT! RETREAT!¡± ¡°UWAHHH!¡± With the darkness of space in the background, a large number of crimson strikers land on the chalky surface of Leboir Alpha. The standard striker of Calencia, the [Claymore] could not put up a proper fight with the enemy raining blaster beams upon them. ¡°We need to disperse the enemy attack! I will lure them away, you use that chance to retreat!¡± ¡°That¡¯s too much for you! With this much firepower, you won¡¯t last even with a shield!¡± ¡°If I¡¯m scared of this much then what kind of woman would I be! I¡¯m going!¡± ¡°Stop, you idiot!¡± With 2 large shields in both hands, a [Claymore] fired its thruster and dashed forward. In response, the enemy concentrates fire on the [Claymore]. The girl who tried to stop her comrade had to make a decision while gritting her teeth. After all, she can not waste this chance that her friend created for them. ¡°Everyone, On me!¡± Saying so she lightly fired the thruster and started retreating. Since the gravity of Leboir Alpha is weak you will have to be careful on the thruster output if you don¡¯t want to accidentally fly up to the air. Following her, her ally strikers also fired their thrusters in the same way. Almost at the same time, the shields of the [Claymore] that acted as a decoy for them completely melted away. Then, after several blaster beams penetrate it, the [Claymore] exploded. ¡°I told you¡­¡­.¡± With the explosion in the back, the girl pilot muttered in tears. However, she doesn¡¯t have the luxury to be sad right now. Fortunately, the surface of Leboir Alpha is filled with craters and rugged terrain. If they can use them as cover, they should be able to put up a decent fight. ¡°For the time being, we need to reduce their number as much as possible¡­¡­.¡± She glanced at the map displayed on her monitor and gulped some saliva down. She then stepped on the pedal and accelerated her striker. Naturally, the Noredian side spotted her and fired their blaster rifles and machine guns to prevent her from getting away. She and her comrades managed to avoid the attack using the terrain as cover. The Calencian pilots had already crammed the terrain information of this planet into their heads. Although they did not have much time to prepare, the geographical advantage still lies with the Calencia side. ¡°Our preys are running away! Don¡¯t let a single one of them escape!¡± ¡°Just shoot at their backs! It¡¯s your chance to get some target practice!¡± With the advantages on their side, the Noredian Pilots started their pursuit. Even if they can not snipe them down from a distance, taking these Calencian strikers down from up close is also an option. There were even some that sheathed their rifles and pulled out their swords. ¡°Alright, they followed us!¡± However, it went according to the girl¡¯s plan. As she approached the open space, she immediately dashed to the side with her comrades in tow. A moment later, the Noredian strikers arrived. They all point their rifles at the [Claymores] to give them a finishing blow. ¡°FIRE!¡± However, at the same time, another unit that was hiding in the nearby mountainous area released their optical camouflage. 6 [Gradius-kais] and 3 large mobile cannons each operated by a striker appeared from their hiding. They opened fire with the mobile cannon, sending a 20cm HE round right to the middle of a large group of the enemy [Jettas]. The HE round exploded before it made its impact and sent numerous self-forging fragments in all directions. What came after was a huge explosion. (TLN: Self Forging Fragments are armor-piercing shrapnels) ¡°We did it!¡± When the smoke cleared, the only things left were the wreckage of the enemy strikers. As she was briefed with their troop placements beforehand, the girl lured the enemy to the location where their mobile artillery unit was lying in wait. With a small victory obtained, they all rejoiced. However, immediately after, a fierce explosion incomparable to the previous one occurred at both theirs and the mobile artillery unit¡¯s positions. They did not even have time to scream as their entire unit was wiped out in an instant. It was artillery fire from the enemy battleships which obtained their location from their frontline units. Even with no clear line of sight, they can use the small gravitational pull of Leboir Alpha to perform long-range bombardment. This shows that even the Noredian combat support is top-notch. ¡°Suppressing fire on point A304!¡± ¡°Establish a bridgehead and watch out for the surroundings!¡± (TLN: A bridgehead is a strong vantage point seized in hostile territory.) With not a shred of carelessness, the Noredian striker units that follow march on with their rifles in hands. The battle has just begun. CH 33 Battle of Leboir [3] A giant metallic crab-like machine is climbing up a steep snow-white slope. Thanks to the stability provided by its 8 legs, the powerful thrust from 2 thermonuclear rocket engines, and the gravity manipulation using an anti-gravity lifter, the multi-legged tank is an excellent ground combat weapon. ¡°This is bad, this is bad, THIS IS SO SO BAD!¡± ¡°If you have time to make those noises then hurry up and fire back already!¡± However, even with all of its excellent capabilities, it doesn¡¯t mean that it is invincible when receiving attacks from all directions. While avoiding the attacks from the surrounding Noredian Strikers, the two female tank crews¡¯ faces turned blue. ¡°Shit! Hit damn it!¡± The muzzle of the 15.5cm composite gun which serves as the main weapon of the multi-legged tank flashed. It is currently set to fire blaster beams. A thick beam flew toward an enemy [Jetta] but it was easily avoided. ¡°You suck! Can¡¯t you aim any better, Maho!?¡± ¡°Even with the assist from FCS, do you think hitting something while traveling at 180km/hr is easy!?¡± (TLN: FCS stand for Fire-Control System) The swearing voices flew inside the tandem cockpit of the multi-legged tank. Several beams from the enemy blaster rifles hit the side of the tank, leaving its armor charred. The beams did not penetrate the tank¡¯s armor but if they are shot again before they can discharge the previously absorbed energy, the regenerative armor will not protect them this time. After all, with the capacitor already at full capacity, even this sturdy tank can not escape destruction. ¡°Th, this is No.4! We are in a bad place right now, ma¡¯am! Can we expect any reinforcement soon!?¡± ¡°Every area is in the same shoe! There¡¯s no way that there would be any reinforcement right!¡± They contacted their captain who is also maneuvering her own tank nearby. However, the reply they received was merciless. Moreover, with the communication network still online, the captain was forced to listen to the desperate report from all her subordinates. ¡°Anyway, our job is to delay the enemy¡¯s advance as much as possible. We need to buy more time.¡± ¡°That¡¯s easier said than done!¡± When they were in the middle of such a conversation, a large caliber HE round fired from the Noredian Mobile Artillery landed next to Tank No.4. Although it managed to escape destruction, the tank was blown several dozens of meters into the air. ¡°Auuu¡­¡­..¡± ¡°Sheila-chan wake up! If we stop moving we are going to die!¡± The gunner, Maho, hits the girl in the front seat to try to wake her up but her eyes are still dilated from the concussion. Then a lock-on warning rang inside the cockpit. Grasped by fear, Maho lost control of her bladder. ¡°N, No¡­¡­I don¡¯t want to die¡­¡­.¡± Seeing an enemy [Jetta] mercilessly firing its blaster cannon toward them, Maho tightly shut her eyes. However, the crimson beam was offset by a green beam fired from somewhere above them. Another shot was then fired in quick succession and it pierced through the [Jetta]¡¯s blaster cannon. ¡°Wh, what!?¡± Noticing the strange situation, Maho opened her eyes and looked up to the sky. A pure white striker with a pair of blade antennae that are giving the impression of rabbit ears was flying above them while carrying a blaster rifle with one hand. ¡°[Caliburn-Revive]¡­¡­.?¡± Maho dumbfoundedly muttered the name of the strange striker sent over from the datalink. ¡°No one¡¯s going to die, as long as I¡¯m here!¡± A male voice could be heard from the wireless communication. Forgetting even to say thank you, Maho¡¯s eyes widened in surprise. After all, a man¡¯s voice is something that is impossible to hear on a battlefield. ¡°Calencia¡¯s Zenith!¡± ¡°When did it get here!?¡± The Noredian is also confused by the sudden appearance of this intruder. Some strikers reflexively fired their blaster rifles at him but every shot was deflected away by the photon saber. ¡°Time for payback!¡± ¡°Shit, All units break away!¡± When Kisei floored the pedal, the [Caliburn-Revive] immediately accelerated. The group of [Jettas] that was aiming their rifles at him in formation immediately scattered. Even if it¡¯s an unknown striker, all pilots understand without any need to be told that when a Zenith charge at you, you run. ¡°H, How¡­¡­¡± However, as they moved out of the way, the blaster beam that Kisei fired accurately find its way to one of the [Jettas]¡¯ abdomen. The [Jetta]¡¯s abdomen was pierced and it rolled to the ground with black smoke rising from it. ¡°S, Suppressing fire! Don¡¯t give it another chance to attack!¡± Following their captain¡¯s command, the Noredian strikers opened fire at the [Caliburn-Revive]. ¡°Alright, this is good!¡± After glancing at the position of the Calencian tank corps, Kisei grinned. Then, despite the storm of bullets, Kisei kicked off the slope and zigzagged his way toward the enemy while avoiding everything. ¡°How!¡± The sniper custom [Jetta] holds up its long barrel rifle and takes aim. After a careful aim, it fired a high-energy beam toward Kisei. ¡°Uwah¡­..¡± The crimson beam accurately flies toward the [Caliburn-Revive]. However, the accurately aimed shot instead caused a disaster for them as the beam was deflected by the [Caliburn-Revive]¡¯s photon saber and penetrated her captain¡¯s striker on the abdomen. ¡°Is that even p-¡­¡­..¡± The sniper shouted in surprise but her striker soon followed the same fate as it was hit by a blaster beam Kisei fired in response. ¡°W, We are withdrawing! There¡¯s no use going against a Zenith!¡± ¡°Don¡¯t be stupid and get yourselves killed in a winning battle. Hurry up!¡± Sensing Kisei¡¯s extraordinary skill, the Noredian pilots hurriedly withdrew. Kisei did not give chase, instead, he went back to assist his allies. ¡°Are you injured? If your tank is disabled then come out, I will escort you back to a safe place.¡± Kisei talks to the tank crews of the damaged multi-legged tank. ¡°W, we are okay, sir!¡± Maho replied in a high-pitch voice as she hit Sheila who was still unconscious in the driver seat to wake her up. ¡°By the way, may I ask for your name, age, and your preference!?¡± ¡°Ha?¡± ¡°Why did you suddenly ask him that, you idiot!!¡± The captain¡¯s loud voice can be heard from the communication channel after Maho who perhaps due to her dazed state, suddenly asked such idiotically inappropriate questions. ¡°M, My apologies. I will reprimand her later¡­¡­.we can withdraw on our own here, please go on ahead. Our allies are having a hard time everywhere after all.¡± ¡°Yes. Well then, take care.¡± Even Kisei understands that they are currently in a tight spot right now. He nodded at the captain¡¯s words and accelerated away. ¡°Captain¡«!¡± ¡°Shut up! Hurry up and get moving! He just saved your life, do you plan to waste it!¡± Hearing that, Maho remembered the fear she felt earlier. ¡°U, Understood, ma¡¯am. Sheila-chan, let¡¯s go!¡± ¡°Uuu, stupid Maho¡­..you don¡¯t have to be so rough¡­¡­¡± The multi-legged tank stood up and started withdrawing by blowing its thrusters. CH 34 Battle of Leboir [4] ¡°Mother¡­¡­no, Your Majesty. I apologize for our belatedness. The 3rd Fleet is here to join the frontline.¡± ¡°No, without the information you obtained, we wouldn¡¯t have been able to intercept them here. You have nothing to apologize for.¡± Alisha responded to Schleer¡¯s apology with a solemn voice. Schleer is currently not at the bridge of the [Radiant] but inside [Mistilteinn]¡¯s cockpit. As this is a big battle, Schleer put herself on the frontline from the very beginning. The fact that Alisha is in command of the overall battle also played a big part in her decision. ¡°Right now we must rebuild the frontline. I need the 3rd Fleet to assist our soldiers in their retreat.¡± ¡°Understood. Please leave this to us.¡± Schleer had already deployed her troops with that intention from the start. After disconnecting the communication, Schleer looks around to see the state of the battlefield. Due to insufficient preparation, her allies are all being routed. They need to do something to stall the enemy¡¯s advance. ¡°Your Highness, is he really going to be okay?¡± The voice came from the [Dainsleif] that is deploying nearby. She¡¯s asking about Kisei. When they arrived at the Leboir system, Kisei flew out to join the battle immediately. She did try to stop him but due to Kisei¡¯s assertiveness and the worsening war situation, she had no choice but to allow him to sortie. ¡°We can detect his signal nearby. He¡¯s not that far away so we should be able to join up with him soon.¡± Thanks to the communication equipment installed all over the planet, they have the data link established. They can check on Kisei¡¯s status and position any time they want. However, Schleer is still worried. That man is someone who can calmly plunge himself into the middle of the enemy position with a single machine. Naturally, he has more than enough skill to handle himself in such a situation but from the outside, something like that still looks dangerous. Thinking so, Schleer kicked the ground and flew off to join Kisei. ¡°¡ª-There he is!¡± Around 10 minutes later, Schleer and Saki finally found the [Caliburn-Revive] fighting against a large group of [Jettas]. Despite being in a one-vs-many situation, Kisei is gradually pushing back the enemy strikers while jumping and accelerating around them. ¡°Kisei-san, we are here to back you up!¡± Schleer aims the blaster cannon on [Mistilteinn]¡¯s shoulder at an enemy striker. The thick blaster beam accurately hit an enemy [Jetta], blowing away its lower body. Its remaining upper body was sent rolling on the ground, generating a cloud of white dust. ¡°I¡¯ve been waiting for you! I mean, this number is too much even for me!¡± Kisei responded cheerfully. Most of the other allies are already giving their all into retreating so they can not afford to provide any support. Even with just Schleer and Saki here, he couldn¡¯t thank them enough to get some help here. ¡°It¡¯s because you flew off by yourself, idiot!¡± ¡°You could say that.¡± Kisei replied to Saki¡¯s jab with a smile. Seeing his unremorseful attitude, Saki sighs. However, right now their priority is to stop the enemy here. So, Saki fired her thrusters at full power and immediately closed in on an enemy [Jetta] with the [Dainsleif]. ¡°Three?¡­¡­We can¡¯t deal with 3 Zeniths at once!¡± ¡°Too late for that!¡± An enemy [Jetta] tried to retreat but it was cut in two by a single swing of the electromagnetic slash. ¡°Tsk!¡± Another [Jetta] was readying its blaster rifle to intercept Saki but it was immediately incapacitated by Kisei who shot a blaster beam at its abdomen. ¡°WE CAN¡¯T DEAL WITH THIS ALONE! WHERE ARE THE ARISTOCRATS!?¡± ¡°We¡¯ve been calling them but they said they are not coming! They want us to do something about this ourselves!¡± ¡°If they are going to flaunt their power at every opportunity they have then can¡¯t they at least be useful in a time like this!?¡± Cries of agony were raised from the Noredian side. When he spotted a slow-moving [Jetta], Kisei kicked off a slope and jumped at it. The [Jetta] holds up its shield to try and defend but Kisei activates the anchor on the sole of the [Caliburn-Revive]¡¯s foot to make a sharp turn and thrust the pile bunker to the [Jetta]¡¯s side. The surrounding [Jettas] keep shooting at him with their blaster rifles and submachine guns without worrying about their fallen ally but Kisei skillfully dodges them all and jumps up again. ¡°I heard that there are rabbits on earth¡¯s moon, this must be what it means.¡± Seeing Kisei, Saki says that with a bitter smile. Certainly, the white color and the blade antennae really make the [Caliburn-Revive] give the impression of a rabbit. ¡°But what he¡¯s doing right now is more like a tiger hunting its prey rather than a rabbit though.¡± ¡°Rabbit¡­¡­? I heard that some people eat them but I never knew that rabbits are such ferocious creatures.¡± Schleer, who has no connection whatsoever to earth did not seem to know what kind of creature rabbits are so she gave a strange reply. ¡°Well, I¡¯ve never seen a living one before either.¡± Saki said so and shrugged. During that time, Schleer fires her heavy machine gun at another [Jetta] unit that came as reinforcement while sulkily pouting her cold lips. Although she didn¡¯t hit anything, the enemy reinforcement was forced to stop for a moment in fear of the flood of blue tracer bullets. And as though he was aiming for that chance, Kisei fires his blaster rifle in rapid succession taking out three of the newly arrived [Jettas]. ¡°What a great aim.¡± While looking at Kisei who fired his sub-thruster to retreat to the nearby rock and reload his blaster rifle, Schleer muttered in a tone that is a mix between admiration and bitterness. She has confidence in her shooting skill but she knows that she can¡¯t possibly get anywhere close to his accuracy. ¡°No good. If this keeps up¡­¡­let alone protecting him, I will be the one that will be protected instead.¡± While murmuring to herself in a small voice, Schleer clenches her teeth and aims at another enemy striker. Despite the fact that they have been taking down striker after striker, the enemy reinforcements keep showing up without end. The battle has just begun. Previous Chapte CH 35 Battle of Leboir [5] ¡°The 805th and 808th Striker Regiments have withdrawn. The offensive at point C707 is a complete failure.¡± ¡°Viscountess Kazumiae was shot down. It¡¯s Hokuto Kisei, ma¡¯am.¡± ¡°Baroness Masta was also shot down by Hokuto Kisei, ma¡¯am¡± ¡°Again!? And two at the same time! How many aristocrats have been shot down by that man now?¡± Diaroze held her head as she listened to the headache-inducing reports from her subordinates. ¡°Including Rosia-sama, he has already shot down 5, ma¡¯am.¡± ¡°Forbid every aristocrat from challenging that man alone! It will damage the overall morale.¡± It had already been an hour since the Noredian side received the report that the enemy 3rd Fleet had joined the battle. They had been overwhelming the Calencian before their arrival but for a while now, only worrisome reports came through the communication channels. When they received the news that 3 of the Calencian Zenith had been wreaking havoc on the front line, the aristocrats who served as commanders went out to deal with them but they were all shot down by Kisei. If this continues, they will not be able to maintain the morale of the commoner soldiers. ¡°Y, Your Highness! Countess Kurtova has just been shot down! It¡¯s Hokuto Kisei again!¡± ¡°Damn it, does my army have tofu for strikers!?¡± Diaroze looked up at the sky and let out a loud sigh. She then takes a deep breath to calm her mind. If she gets upset now she will end up losing a winning battle. And as a matter of fact, they are still winning the overall battle. That¡¯s why she told herself to not get worked up so much. ¡°¡­..Sushi, bring me some sushi. Maguro¡¯s fine.¡± ¡°Y, Yes, Your Highness! Right away.¡± The chamberlain stood up and quickly left the bridge. She returned after a while with a plate of Maguro Sushi in hand. Diaroze is a fish connoisseur. In order to meet her unusual requests for fish dishes, she always has a group of dedicated chefs on her ship. ¡°Umu¡­¡­UMU!¡± Diaroze elegantly picked up the sushi and lightly seasoned it with soy sauce before bringing it to her mouth. Her cheeks relaxed a little at the taste that met her standard. Now her mind is being healed. The super luxurious ingredient was delivered to straight her by a high-speed ship to maintain their freshness from Aomori, Earth. The rice used in the sushi is also organic Koshihikari rice. Let alone commoners, even high-ranking aristocrats are unable to obtain such ingredients. If Schleer was here, she would have already felt tremendous bitterness from the difference in their national power. ¡°Aneue!¡± While she was enjoying her sushi, a communication came in from Valentina. Seeing her little sister¡¯s face on the monitor, Diaroze directed an unpleasant gaze at Valentina. ¡°¡­¡­Aneue. What are you eating during a battle?¡± However, the unpleasantness is also shared by Valentina as she directed her gaze at Diaroze¡¯s hand. ¡°Sushi.¡± ¡°Eating such a thing in front of your subordinates in the middle of a battle is unseemly, Aneue.¡± At least during battle, it is Valentina¡¯s belief that she should partake in the same meal as her subordinates as much as possible. Eating something that is hard to come by like that will only cause uncomfortable feelings to those under their command. Even if it¡¯s against their subordinates, it is still unwise to sow seeds of discord over food. ¡°I¡¯m supplementing myself with EPA and DHA. They sharpen my mind.¡± ¡°¡­¡­is that so.¡± Although she still remains unconvinced, Valentina doesn¡¯t say anything more on the matter. After all, if she lost herself in her sister¡¯s pace, she might lose the chance to address her intended topic. ¡°By the way, I heard that that man has appeared.¡± ¡°Yeah, he¡¯s been doing whatever he wants for a while now.¡± Diaroze slowly finished her sushi and replied. ¡°So that¡¯s the case after all. Aneue, please allow me to deploy. I will definitely stop him for you.¡± ¡°No, no. What are you? A fool?¡± When Valentina bowed her head and asked for permission to deploy, Diaroze dismissed her request with a wave of her hand. ¡°No matter how much of a fool you are, you still hold the last seat of the succession line. You are both a symbol of our great empire as well as a powerful war asset. There¡¯s no need to waste you on some Calencian¡¯s wild dog.¡± ¡°But!¡± ¡°No but! I will feed you some appropriate trashes later so sit back and stay out of this!¡± Saying so, Diaroze forcibly cut the communication. Then after finishing her last sushi, she gives orders to her subordinates. ¡°Pull out all of our units near Hokuto Kisei¡¯s location. Instead, direct our deployed interceptor units to him.¡± ¡°Yes¡­..? Our interceptor units? Please excuse my rudeness, Your Highness. I do not think that our interceptors are capable of dealing with an opponent that even our forward units failed to defeat¡­¡­.¡± A member of her staff raised a point. Currently, the interceptors units that are in charge of defending the fleets consist of second-rates, both in terms of skills and equipment. Pitching them against a monstrously skilled mercenary would spell their inevitable destruction. ¡°Fool¡­¡­¡­.Do I have to spell everything out for you?¡¯ ¡°M, My apology, Your Highness!¡± With a stern look from Diaroze, the staff immediately apologized. ¡°It¡¯s stupid to take a strong opponent head-on! Still, the opponent here is still made of flesh and blood. There are limits on both his bullets and endurance. Even with new graduates as his opponent, he will eventually exhaust himself if we keep attacking without giving him any time to rest! We can crush him whenever we want after that!¡± ¡°Yes, ma¡¯am! I will immediately send the interceptors.¡± To prevent herself from saying something that will cause further disappointment from her superior, the staff hurriedly began contacting the interceptor units. ¡°Make sure that they don¡¯t go at him all at once. Even as cannon fodders, our troops are still finite after all. Keep the attack in waves to maximize the result while minimizing our loss.¡± After ordering her staff so, Diaroze looks at the tactical map displayed on her monitor. ¡°Hmph, you gave me quite a bit of trouble but¡­¡­the victory will be mine in the end. I will make you work hard with your body afterward to compensate for all my troubles¡­¡­.¡± As she played with her whip, an excited expression can clearly be seen on Diaroze¡¯s face. CH 36 Battle of Leboir [6] ¡°That¡¯s the last one huh¡­¡­¡± While hiding behind the rocks, Kisei changed the magazine of his blaster rifle. The box-shaped magazine containing compressed particles looks mostly like your traditional assault rifle used by the infantry and serves a similar purpose. ¡°My bad, do you have any extra magazine left? I¡¯ve already used up all my spares.¡± His question was directed at the nearby [Claymore]. Currently, their battle situation has improved but they are still locked in a stalemate. With the success of Kisei and his group, the Calencian side has managed to rebuild the front line. However, it still can¡¯t be said that all is good. After all, Kisei had been fighting while repeatedly crossing between the ally¡¯s position and the enemy¡¯s position without any chance to rest. ¡°Well, I don¡¯t actually have any spare magazines but¡­.¡­¡± The [Claymore]¡¯s pilot reluctantly replied. The fighting in this area has been fierce so far. No one here can afford to hand their magazines to others. ¡°Please take mine. A single shot from you is much more meaningful than mine after all.¡± Saying so, the pilot pushed her magazines onto the [Caliburn-Revive]¡¯s magazine holder. ¡°¡­¡­Thanks. But wandering around on the battlefield with no bullet is suicide. You should retreat and resupply for now.¡± Kisei did not decline the magazines. He understood that the pilot already thought it over and made up her resolve before she handed him her magazines. ¡°Please, it would be better to give the enemy an extra target rather than reducing our number here. If they can break through this place, our battle formation will be destroyed after all.¡± Said the pilot as her [Claymore] pulled out a photon saber. ¡°Fortunately, the terrain here is quite complex. Even with just a sword, I think I should be able to hold my own here.¡± ¡°You¡¯ve got guts. I will be counting on you.¡± After tapping the [Claymore]¡¯s shoulder, Kisei leaped the [Caliburn-Revive] up. By firing the thruster as he leaps from slope to slope, he¡¯s making his way forward to the enemy. Naturally, the enemy strikers in the area opened fire at him but he casually avoided them all. ¡°¡­..Whoa!¡± Suddenly, Kisei fired his blaster rifle to the empty space above him. The green beam flew into the night sky and after a brief moment, it impacted something causing an explosion. A few seconds later, several explosions occurred in the surrounding area. It was an indirect fire from the enemy ship. (TLN: Indirect fire is an action of firing projectiles at the enemy without relying on a direct line of sight, imagine mortar) ¡°Phew¡­¡­that was scary. Giving him those extra mags was the right move after all.¡± The earlier pilot who stayed behind muttered to herself in the cockpit. Her area escaped the enemy blind bombardment probably thanks to Kisei shooting down the shells that were likely to hit their area. ¡°Wicked Star huh, when he¡¯s on our side, he¡¯s more like a Lucky Star though.¡± Said the [Claymore] pilot as she smiled bitterly. ¡°There¡¯s no end to them! More enemy reinforcements incoming!¡± However, even Kisei can not let his guard down in this situation. The enemy is coming at him from all directions. He has been avoiding the things that he can avoid and deflecting those that he can¡¯t while striking back at the enemy when opportunities arise. From what he observed, it appears that the enemies are not that skilled and it¡¯s easy to shoot them down. So far, most were unable to react to Kisei¡¯s no lock-on shooting and fall one after another. ¡°Push, Push, Push!¡± ¡°They will shoot at us from behind if we fall back! Keep pushing!¡± However, no matter how many he shot down, the enemy still showed no sign of running out of troops. More reinforcements would just come from the rear and replace the fallen units. It¡¯s a situation where both sides can not push any further. ¡°Kisei, do you think these guys are strange?¡± Saki who landed near him said as she provided suppressive fire with her submachine gun. ¡°They are using [Giro]. Those things are already outdated. I don¡¯t think a rich country like Nored would put those things on the frontline.¡± Just as Saki said, not only [Jetta], he can spot various unfamiliar striker models in the enemy force. Their trinocular main camera is certainly the same but their plump frame is clearly making them more sluggish than the [Jettas]. These strikers are the outdated model, [Giro]. They should have been removed from frontline missions and repurpose to perform miscellaneous tasks in the rear like operating mobile artillery or transporting supplies already. ¡°It must be the enemy¡¯s strategy¡­..! They are hitting us with low-value units so that they can minimize their losses while wearing us out.¡± ¡°Wow, I¡¯m honored, it seems that they evaluate me quite highly here, Hahaha!¡± ¡°Is this a time to be laughing!¡± The [Giro] may be outdated but they are still well-equipped. If they got careless, even a Zenith could be shot down. The situation is not good for them. ¡°I mean¡­¡­since they are concentrating their troops here, the enemy presence should be thinner in the other theaters. Since I¡¯m still technically doing my job, it¡¯s all good!¡± At the same time, Kisei shoots his blaster at the sky again. Another explosion occurred followed by multiple large explosions in the surrounding areas. Although they suffer no damage, the sound of pebbles hitting their armor at high speed is still unpleasant. ¡°Still, their support fires really are troublesome! Can¡¯t we do something about this, Your Highness!¡± ¡°I¡¯ve already requested support from our missile vessels. They should arrive at the enemy ship soon.¡± Hearing Schleer responding to Saki¡¯s question, a frown appeared on Kisei¡¯s face for a moment. He put his foot on the pedal and thought for a moment while listening to his surroundings. However, earlier than he could take any action, a pillar of fire rose in the distance. ¡°Ugh¡­..!¡± Kisei reflexively disabled his microphone and moaned painfully. Beads of cold sweat appeared on his face and dripped down to his knees. He clenches his teeth for a while before he finally starts breathing again. ¡°I couldn¡¯t make it in time! Damn it!¡± Noticing the change in the [Caliburn-Revive]¡¯s movement, Schleer looks worriedly at it. However, Saki didn¡¯t notice that and cheered. ¡°Judging from the size of that explosion, they must have hit the ammunition depot of a cruiser huh! Good, it will be easier for us now!¡± ¡°¡­¡­¡­it doesn¡¯t seem like there are more enemy ships nearby. Our allies behind us should be safe for the time being.¡± Kisei turned the mic back on and replied to Saki as normally as he could. ¡°¡­¡­..that being said, we still have a long way to go. Let¡¯s take a breath while we can.¡± Both for their physical and mental health. Schleer grimly said while recalling what Kisei told her before they arrived at Leboir. Kisei is the trump card of the Calencia empire. They should avoid unnecessarily wearing him out as much as possible. Thinking that this is going to be a harsh battle, a severe expression floated on Schleer¡¯s face. CH 37 Battle of Leboir [7] ¡°Take this¡­¡­!¡± A Medium-sized missile was launched from the missile launcher the [Mistilteinn] took out from its hips. The missile split into multiple micro missiles midair and shower down on the enemy troops. Several [Giro] and [Jetta] tried to evade the missiles but they were hit by the bombardment. Due to the small payload, the damage was not enough to take them down. Still, Schleer successfully slowed their movement. ¡°Alright!¡± Discarding the empty missile launcher, Schleer takes up the heavy machine gun and begins mowing the enemy down. The enemy strikers that were hit by the earlier missiles could not avoid the hail of bullets and their engines were shot through. However. ¡°Tsk!¡± The heavy machine gun ran out of bullets, leaving one surviving [Jetta]. As it tries to counterattack using its blaster rifle, Kisei came in from the side and pierced its abdomen using the pile bunker. ¡°I, I¡¯m sorry.¡± ¡°Don¡¯t say sorry! A thank you is enough!¡± ¡°Y. Yes! Thank you!¡± After rephrasing her reply in a hurry, Schleer grits her teeth. Still, she has no time to be depressed about it right now. The enemy reinforcements are still pouring toward their location. She already lost count of how many strikers she shot down already but she¡¯s sure that the number is massive. Mounting the now useless heavy machine gun on the waist hardpoint, Schleer operates the [Mistilteinn] to pull out a giant two-handed sword¡­¡­.a Zweihander and get ready to continue the combat. ¡°Your Highness, if you already ran out of ammo then please retreat and resupply!¡± Schleer can provide powerful support fire. That¡¯s why Saki urged her to withdraw and replenish her ammunition before returning to the front. Fortunately, Kisei and Saki received some extra mags from other pilots so they can continue to fight for a while. ¡°¡­¡­.Understood!¡± After hesitating for a moment, Schleer gave a positive reply while suppressing her desire to stay. If she doesn¡¯t withdraw to replenish her supply while she can, everyone will eventually be exhausted and there would be no one left to put up a fight. After all, the enemy still showed no sign of stopping their waves of reinforcements. ¡°Nn?¡± However, the moment Schleer turned back, she stopped herself when she heard Kisei¡¯s puzzled voice. ¡°A strange presence is moving toward us.¡± ¡°Strange¡­¡­presence?¡± His words sound dubious at most but given Kisei¡¯s ability which is even beyond bizarre, Schleer can¡¯t just laugh it off. Glancing at the display of her remaining ammunition, Schleer has one shot of her shoulder blaster cannon left. ¡°Is it someone strong?¡± ¡°No¡­¡­I think it¡¯s not like that.¡± While cocking his head, Kisei fired the thruster and advanced. Then, a lone [Giro] unsheathed its photon saber and rushed straight toward him. ¡°That¡¯s the strange guy you were talking about? Challenging someone in a one-on-one old-fashioned duel, isn¡¯t this a straightforward one.¡± Saki groaned. However, Kisei didn¡¯t say anything. He unsheathed his photon saber and received the attack. The green and red particle swords grind against each other, sending sparks flying everywhere. ¡°Push me to somewhere isolated. I want to talk.¡± It was communication from the [Giro] in front of him. ¡°A secured line!?¡± Kisei involuntarily looks at the trinocular camera of the [Giro] displaying on the main monitor. Curiously, he couldn¡¯t feel any killing intent or any harmful intention toward him at all. This is the cause of the bizarreness. After all, that¡¯s all he could feel from the pilot despite the fact that they are on a heated battlefield. ¡°¡­¡­.Understood.¡± After considering it a little, Kisei replies. He stepped on the pedal and fire the thruster at maximum output. Although the [Giro] appeared to push back with its thruster, there¡¯s no way that the [Giro]¡¯s pilot didn¡¯t notice the difference between the specs of their strikers. In other words, her resistance is just for show. In the end, the two strikers entered an area surrounded by rocky hills. Once they head into the gap between the huge rocks, they would be isolated just like how the other side requested. ¡°Thanks.¡± Saying so, the [Giro]¡¯s pilot opened her cockpit hatch. Turning off the microphone, Kisei also follows suit. ¡°Hi, it¡¯s been a while.¡± ¡°I thought that your voice sounded familiar¡­¡­.¡± Leaving her cockpit and jumping inside the [Caliburn-Revive] was Valentina in a pilot suit. In response, Kisei stands up and catches her slender frame which is still taller than himself. ¡°Uwah.¡± Valentina then brings her arms around Kisei and hugs him. Kisei bears a shocked expression at the sudden development. ¡°It¡¯s lovely to see you again, My Love.¡± ¡°M, My Love!?¡± As he peeled Valentina¡¯s arms off of him, Kisei started to have cold sweat. There¡¯s no doubt that she is referring to him. However, this is the first time a person ever called him that way. ¡°Correct. I¡¯m referring to the person who managed to captivate me. In other words, you.¡± ¡°Ha?¡± After being suddenly hit with such a corny pick-up line, Kisei was sent into confusion. To calm down, he took a lollipop out from his holster and put it in his mouth. ¡°I know it¡¯s sudden, I can understand why you are confused. Sorry about that¡­¡­¡­also, even your troubled face is still cute you know.¡± Saying so, Valentina gently strokes Kisei¡¯s cheek with her gloved hand. Trying to ignore her advances as much as possible, Kisei focuses his mind on the taste of his lollipop. He can¡¯t allow himself to fall into her pace. ¡°¡­¡­so, what kind of business do you have with me?¡± The other side is a member of the enemy nation¡¯s royal family who got into contact with him using a strange means. There must be some kind of circumstances behind her action. ¡°Right. We should get down to business. But before that, destroy my [Giro] and return to the battle first. The Noredian army would suspect it otherwise.¡± ¡°So you came here in secret¡­¡­¡± While wondering what she¡¯s trying to do, Kisei did as told and used the pile bunker to pierce the [Giro]. ¡°Kisei-san, what happened!? Are you okay!?¡± Communication came in from Schleer. Kisei was hesitating about how to answer her but Valentina simply turned on the mic and replied. ¡°Hello there, it¡¯s been a while Princess Pimp. ¡° ¡°Wha!? That voice, that insolent tone! Don¡¯t tell me¡­..the vixen from Nored!¡± ¡°Hahaha, she gave me quite a terrible nickname huh.¡± ¡°That¡¯s kind of mutual though.¡± Kisei reflexively retorted. ¡°Wait? Someone snuck into [Caliburn-Revive]!?¡± Feeling something¡¯s off, Saki hurriedly rushed over. ¡°It¡¯s a stalker! A devious pervert stalker snuck into the [Caliburn-Revive]! Just how did you¡­..¡± ¡°Well, hold on a minute here. I didn¡¯t come here to fight. I¡¯ve something important to tell you so you don¡¯t have to get so worked up.¡± With that said, Valentina snugly moved behind Kisei and sat down on the seat. She then taps her knees, signaling Kisei to sit down. ¡°Anyway, right now we should pretend that everything¡¯s normal. Neither the other Noredian soldiers nor commanders know that I¡¯m here. So just keep fighting. I wouldn¡¯t want anyone to find me here after all.¡± Hearing that, Kisei reluctantly sat down on Valentina¡¯s lap. Because of the height difference, he would not be able to operate the striker otherwise. That being said, he has to focus his mind to the utmost to ignore the existence of the big, soft object that is pressing against his back. ¡°Excuse me.¡± ¡°Ah!¡± The lollipop was stolen from his mouth. And just like that, with no hesitation, Valentina put it in her mouth. Her face burst into a smile as she tasted the still wet lollipop. ¡°I think I will give you something nice as thanks for the lollipop. How does a kiss that¡¯s sweeter than any candy you ever tasted sound?¡± Valentina faintly whispers into Kisei¡¯s ear, her voice was not picked up by the mic. Her warm breaths touch his ear, making Kisei quivered. ¡°I, I¡¯ll pass.¡± ¡°What¡¯s that!? Kisei-san! Are you okay!?¡± Sensing something unpleasant going on, Schleer yelled into the mic. ¡°Worry not. I¡¯d never do anything that would hurt My Love.¡± ¡°M, My Love!?¡± ¡°Ugh, so cringy!¡± Schleer and Saki simultaneously voiced their disgust. However, Valentina¡¯s expression remained unaffected. ¡°I¡¯m not going to do anything uncouth. As long as you people do as I say that is. I only have one request. I¡¯d like you to properly listen to my warning. That¡¯s all. Simple right?¡± ¡°¡­..tsk! If it¡¯s something bad then I¡¯m going to kill you. Kisei-san, Lt. Makishima, let¡¯s hear her out for the time being. Just hearing that is.¡± In truth, Schleer can¡¯t do anything as Kisei is being held as a hostage. Right now, she has no choice but to obey Valentina¡¯s instructions. ¡°¡­..Haa.¡± While sighing at the bizarre situation he found himself in, Kisei started up the [Caliburn-Revive] again. CH 38 Battle of Leboir [8] ¡°Now, the first thing I am going to say is that I came here on my own. My actions are completely arbitrary.¡± Said Valentina after she confirmed that the [Caliburn-Revive] has rejoined the battle. A tremendous amount of effort is required of Kisei in order to properly steer his striker while he¡¯s sitting on this beauty¡¯s lap but Valentina doesn¡¯t seem to care about that. ¡°Neither my elder sister, the commander-in-chief of this invasion nor other imperial soldiers deployed in this area know that I am here. The only ones who know are a selected few of my subordinates who report directly to me.¡± ¡°¡­¡­..we don¡¯t have any way to verify what you said though.¡± Scheer bitterly replied. However, Valentina simply narrowed her eyes as though such a reply was already anticipated. ¡°Then there is no problem. I didn¡¯t come here to betray my country or join you guys after all. The reason I went out of my way to come here personally is to relay to you one necessary warning.¡± ¡°A warning? Do you want us to hurry up and surrender?¡± ¡°Kukuku, it seems that you are quite simple-minded huh. I know that you people would not just accept defeat just because I tell you to. Do you think that I am so moronic that I would expect you to obediently surrender if I ask?¡± ¡°I see. So you came to pick a fight huh. Fine then, let me respond in kind.¡± ¡°Pl, please cut that out, you two! Valentina-sama too, please lay off the taunting. The talk wouldn¡¯t progress otherwise.¡± Schleer may appear calm but she is already quite irritated. Kisei can¡¯t afford to let them start exchanging insults now. The fact that Valentina¡¯s presence here is unknown to the Noredian soldiers appears to be true as the enemy strikers are still continuing to attack him as normal. Right now, he is simply avoiding their attack and retaliate when he¡¯s able to. ¡°Ahh, apologies, My Love. Fufu, it is exactly as you said. Let¡¯s continue this in a lady-like manner shall we.¡± Said Valentina with a lustrous smile. ¡°Also, you don¡¯t need to address me with honorifics. Our relationship is much more intimate than that don¡¯t you think.¡± ¡°I don¡¯t see how that¡¯s the case though¡­¡­¡± As Kisei tiredly retorted, Saki interjected into the conversation. ¡°W, Wait a minute! Did you say Valentina earlier? That person, isn¡¯t she Nored¡¯s¡­..¡± ¡°Your guess is correct, Samurai.¡± While looking at Saki¡¯s katana holding striker, Valentina answered with a snap of her fingers. ¡°Geh! How did you get in there!¡± ¡°She¡¯s right! Did you let her in yourself? That¡¯s just too dangerous!¡± ¡°I mean, I didn¡¯t feel any harmful intention from her so¡­¡­..¡± If he felt that she intended to harm him, he would not open his hatch unprotected. However, he couldn¡¯t feel any such intention from Valentina through the [I-con] at all. ¡°Naturally! As expected of My Love. My Love and I are truly connected, body and soul.¡± ¡°Please stop joking, Valentina-sama.¡± ¡°Oh, I¡¯ve already told you that there¡¯s no need for any honorifics right? This warrants a punishment.¡± ¡°Uwah!¡± Suddenly having his ear nibbled on, Kisei yelped. Naturally, the striker¡¯s movement was also affected. ¡°Can you not do that during battle, it¡¯s dangerous!!¡± ¡°It¡¯s okay, I¡¯m here with you after all. If it gets dangerous then I can maneuver this striker for you.¡± ¡°Damn it! What¡¯s that vixen doing to my man now!!¡± ¡°Your Highness! Even if you are frustrated, I think that calling him your man is still a no-go right!? Still, that woman is certainly infuriating though!!¡± Schleer and Saki immediately got heated up. However, despite their screams of protest, Valentina simply replies with a laugh. ¡°Fufufu, Losers¡¯ howlings are always pleasant to the ears.¡± ¡°Whatever, Just get down to the main topic already!¡± Unable to bear the sexual harassment anymore, Kisei stopped being polite and urge Valentina to state her business. ¡°Right, there¡¯s that. Sorry, My Love. I was having too much fun talking with you.¡± ¡°Ah, sure. So?¡± ¡°Ahh, actually¡­¡­a very dangerous woman has set her eyes on you. That¡¯s what I came here to tell you today.¡± ¡°Ehh¡­¡­..¡± Kisei unpleasantly moaned. It would be great if he¡¯s spared from having to deal with anything more troublesome than this. ¡°That is certainly true! Even right now Kisei-san is being terrorized by a very dangerous beast after all!¡± ¡°No, no, I was not referring to myself. She¡¯s much more dangerous than me, that woman.¡± ¡°¡­¡­.who is she?¡± He doesn¡¯t really want to know but since it will end up affecting him sooner or later, Kisei asked with a sigh. ¡°Diaroze Vista Argarine. My elder sister and the next in line to the Nored throne¡ª¡ª¡± ¡°Uwah¡­¡­¡± Hearing that unexpected name from Valentina, Kisei could only groan. ¡°Wa, wait a minute! Isn¡¯t she the enemy supreme commander! Why is such a bigshot setting her eyes on him!?¡± ¡°It was a bad move to crash my [Ortho Kratzer] with a training unit. That¡¯s what caught her eyes.¡± ¡°That¡¯s 100% your fault isn¡¯t it!!¡± ¡°I do think that I was also to blame too.¡± Valentina replied to Saki¡¯s retort with a straight face. ¡°My sister is a hardcore sadist. She probably wants to make a strong man like you submit to her.¡± ¡°So it¡¯s that type huh¡­¡­this is the worst.¡± On earth, Kisei¡¯s situation would be like when a female knight starts to stand out after making a lot of achievements in an army full of men. From the perspective of those vulgar perverts, a setting like this seems to be very exciting for them. ¡°Moreover, as you know, my sister is the type who isn¡¯t afraid to get her hands dirty. It¡¯s not hard to imagine that she would try to get her hands on you using some underhanded means.¡± ¡°Ugh¡­..that person was the one who authorized the purge bombing after all. Surely she would never approach Kisei-san straightforwardly.¡± Hearing what Valentina said, Schleer, who managed to calm down a little, replied with a bitter voice. ¡°Exactly. She¡¯s not someone that you can expect a spirit of chivalry from. Moreover, to make things worse, she¡¯s incredibly sharp. She managed to overtake our elder sisters and get to be the person next in line to the throne after all.¡± ¡°¡­..yes, I¡¯ve heard the story. I heard that people are calling her the Undefeated Princess too¡­¡­¡­¡± Schleer sighed at the troublesome opponent. ¡°Anyway, I want you to be careful. I don¡¯t think that you would slip up on the battlefield but once you stepped out of a striker, you¡¯d be nothing but a pretty boy after all.¡± ¡°I know that I¡¯m physically weak but¡­¡­.¡± Maybe sugarcoating it a little? Kisei turned dispirited. ¡°Fufu, I¡¯m sorry. By the way, Schleer Henrietta. In terms of protecting My Love, our interests are aligned, don¡¯t you think?¡± ¡°¡­¡­infuriating as it is, you have that right. I will attach him with some escorts.¡± ¡°You do that. I have no intention to go easy on you in this war myself but if it¡¯s to protect My Love, I will cooperate with you.¡± Valentina exhaled after she finished what she wanted to say. ¡°That¡¯s it for me. My Love, can you find somewhere private and let me out? I had my subordinates waiting for me nearby.¡± ¡°Yes, yes. Got it.¡± Even Kisei would have trouble fighting when he doesn¡¯t know when he would get sexually harassed again. He has been on the defensive since earlier too. Wishing that he can get rid of her soon, he immediately moved his striker. ¡°Tsk, can¡¯t be helped. Lt. Makishima, let¡¯s provide some support.¡± ¡°Haaa¡­¡­roger that. Can we just shoot her in the back though?¡± ¡°I understand your feelings but that goes against the code of chivalry.¡± ¡°Damn¡­¡­¡­¡± With each of them holding their Zweihander and Katana respectively, the two push into the enemy position. After confirming that the enemy was focusing on the two, Kisei moved to a rocky area and opened the cockpit hatch. ¡°Thank you. I was happy to see you again you know, My Love.¡± Saying so, Valentina pulled the lollipop out of her mouth and gently caress Kisei¡¯s cheek with one hand. Just like that, she brings her doll-like face close to Kisei¡¯s and places her lips on his forehead. The refreshing citrus scent of her perfume tickled Kisei¡¯s nose. ¡°Well then, let¡¯s meet again.¡± Saying so, she waved the lollipop in her hand and left the cockpit. In response, Kisei, whose eyes already looked like those of a dead fish, touched his forehead. The kiss to the forehead is the greatest show of affection to the opposite sex for Vuld. Incidentally, Vuld women usually do not kiss someone on the lips because their saliva contains some aphrodisiac components. That¡¯s why such a kiss is considered to be vulgar outside of bed. ¡°¡­¡­¡­let¡¯s just head back to battle.¡± With a depressed sigh, Kisei closed the cockpit hatch. CH 39 Battle of Leboir [9] ¡°That woman, she told us to be careful but at this rate, we are going to get crushed even before her sister shows up isn¡¯t it!¡± Saki irritatedly shouted a few minutes after Valentina left. Like before, the enemy strikers are not that strong but if they keep coming like this, Saki¡¯s side will gradually exhaust themselves. ¡°But we can¡¯t afford to withdraw here either.¡± Schleer said as she fired her heavy machine gun. She had withdrawn from battle and resupply earlier but she still had to return to the front without getting any proper rest. After all, holding such an amount of enemy with only 2 strikers is obviously not going to be easy. ¡°We could keep up with their number because we are piloting Zeniths. If we let such a big wave of enemies reach another front¡­¡­.I don¡¯t even want to imagine what will happen.¡± ¡°Still, our opponents are clearly just reserved units. They must have stationed their main force elsewhere. It can¡¯t be good for us to continue playing their game like this.¡± Kisei growls. The enemies they are facing are clearly just a diversion. It¡¯s hard to imagine that the Noredian commanders think that this amount of troops can take them down. Moreover, even though Valentina clearly dislikes her sister, she seems to acknowledge her ability. There¡¯s no way that the enemy commander-in-chief is just an average person. ¡°Yes, exactly. While these decoys stall us here, the enemy¡¯s main force must be moving somewhere else. Honestly, if their main force collided with ours, it¡¯s impossible that our force would come out on top.¡± One could say the fact that Kisei who is their most powerful war asset is being stalled on an unimportant front is showing that the current situation greatly deviated from their original plan. Right now, the battle is progressing at the opponent¡¯s pace. Schleer glanced at the tactical map displayed on her sub-monitor. The enemy unit attacking them seems to be a small and compact one. This renders their guerrilla tactics less effective. What¡¯s more, if they can¡¯t send out a recon unit, they will not be able to verify the location of the enemy¡¯s main force. In other words, there¡¯s nothing they can do. ¡°¡­¡­.we need to find a way to win this.¡± Schleer muttered while suppressing her frustration. ¡°If it¡¯s a way to win this battle then there¡¯s one you know. It will be fine!¡± While she was like that, Kisei replied with a bright voice. Avoiding the enemy attack, Kisei approached the enemy strikers at full speed and skewer them one by one using his pile bunker. ¡°For now, the situation is progressing in the direction that the enemy expected! That¡¯s why it will be fine. We just have to turn the table on them when the time comes!¡± ¡°¡­¡­what do you mean?¡± After hiding her striker in a shade of a rock, Schleer asked. Is there really a way for them to turn the table on the enemy as they are now? ¡°It seems that the enemy has quite a high opinion of us. That¡¯s why they definitely do not want us to be anywhere near their main force when they are trying to deal a decisive blow on the main fleet.¡± ¡°That¡¯s¡­¡­.true.¡± Schleer nodded while thinking to herself that it¡¯s not ¡®us¡¯ who they are putting up their guard against but ¡®you¡¯ alone. ¡°In other words, there¡¯s a high chance that they will send something powerful our way to keep us occupied when the time comes. That will be our signal to counterattack.¡± ¡°I see, so that¡¯s when we can take the initiative to attack them back huh!¡± Saki grins. Certainly, that plan is much more interesting than just remaining on the defensive. ¡°The moment our opponent makes an advance on our main fleet, I will rush in to intercept them. It will be difficult for me to withdraw though.¡± ¡°So, you are saying that you have a chance of winning?¡± ¡°Of course! I will show you. I am Hokuto Kisei after all.¡± Saying so, Kisei laughs out loud. After thinking about his proposal for a while, Schleer agrees to his plan. Although she has never seen any lone Zenith turning the tide of battle between capital ships, she has no other plan to offer right now. ¡°I understand, let¡¯s go with that.¡± Hearing that, Kisei let out a small sigh. He then put more strength into his grip on the control sticks. ¡°This might be bad for me. But, this is the thing that you must do, Hokuto Kisei.¡± In a small voice that didn¡¯t even get picked up by the mic, Kisei motivated himself. He then looked to the sky in the distance. A unit of strikers is approaching their location at a tremendous speed. From the presence he feels, it¡¯s clear that their level of skills is clearly different from that of the enemies they have faced so far. ¡°It seems that our timing has arrived. Now then, shall we!¡± In a bright voice, Kisei made his striker jump up. And just like that he fired the thruster at full power and rushed toward the enemy unit. ¡°Ah, Hey! Where are you going!¡± Seeing him rush out, Saki shouts at him from behind. Glancing at the approaching enemies, it¡¯s clear that their strikers are even more advanced than the [Jetta]. The output of their engine is clearly higher. ¡°These signals¡­..[Lenion]! The Imperial Knights!?¡± ¡°Oi, Oi, Oi, those Noredians suddenly got serious. Moreover, he just rushed in!¡± While the two were taken by surprise, Kisei continued to accelerate. Naturally, the enemy concentrated fire on him but he skillfully avoided them all. The distance between Kisei and the enemy elite unit is reduced and he can now see them on his screen. It was a unit of jet-black glossy strikers. The [Lenion] is a high-spec model of striker that is only available to the Imperial Knights under the direct command of the Empress of the Nored empire. Perhaps they were intending to blitz their position, all [Lenions] are all straddled on ride boosters. ¡°There, it¡¯s the enemy from the report.¡± ¡°Keep your guard up, that is no ordinary enemy.¡± The Noredian¡¯s communication line immediately grew noisy. Then, Kisei held up his blaster rifle and fired. The [Lenion] he targeted avoided the beam with a reaction speed that would not bring shame to the name Imperial Knight but the second shot Kisei fired still found its way to the [Lenion]¡¯s shoulder. As expected of the armor plate on a high-spec unit, it managed to endure the blow but the third shot Kisei fired in succession made an impact on the exact same place and the [Lenion] was sent flying. ¡°I¡¯m taking this!¡± While avoiding the enemy¡¯s attack, Kisei commandeered the ride booster that lost its rider. He then flipped it back 180 degrees and fired its thruster at max power. As the ride booster also seems to be specially designed for the Imperial Knights, the G assaulting his body from the acceleration is even stronger than usual. ¡°Ugh¡­..!¡± Kisei grit his teeth while enduring the rusted iron smell rising up from his chest. His target, the Calencian main fleet. CH 40 Battle of Leboir [10] ¡°Your Majesty! The mercenary from the report is requesting permission to come aboard!¡± ¡°What did you say!?¡± Hearing the report from the control operator, Alisha involuntarily stood up from her seat. If memory serves her right, the mercenary should be fighting in a theater far away from her main fleet. Why is he here? ¡°The enemy fleet is en route toward our location, ma¡¯am. Approximate time to contact, 10 minutes!¡± ¡°¡­¡­.What a timing, is this his intuition as a veteran mercenary? Fine. Permission granted.¡± It was only a few minutes ago that she managed to locate the enemy¡¯s main force. She had thought that there¡¯s no time for her to even put up a proper defense. ¡°Understood.¡± Informed that he was granted permission to come aboard, Kisei approached the ship from the rear and landed on the landing deck. ¡°That ride booster, is it not a Nored¡¯s¡­.?¡± ¡°He stole it huh¡­¡­¡± The deck crew was whispering among themselves but Kisei did not even leave the cockpit and connect a communication line to the deck operator. The enemy is right around the corner. He doesn¡¯t have time to get off and relax here. ¡°Please replenish my ammunition. I only need the blaster magazines so please give me as many as you can.¡± ¡°Roger that. Right away.¡± For a striker to land here in such a situation, it is obvious that it is here for resupplying. Since the ammunition and other supplies were already prepared at the landing deck, the deck crew immediately went to work. ¡°Also, can you please open a communication line to the person in charge here? I need to talk with them about something.¡± ¡°Eh!? ¡­¡­¡­please standby.¡± Even with excellent war results, it is not common for a striker pilot to be granted the right to address the commander-in-chief. That¡¯s why the operator immediately disconnected her communication with Kisei and asked Alisha for permission. ¡°Hokuto Kisei said that he has something to discuss with you, Your Majesty¡­¡­.how do you wish to proceed?¡± ¡°I don¡¯t mind, patch him through.¡± This is originally a battle where they do not stand much chance of winning from the beginning. Since their only hope is this man, Alisha immediately dropped the formality and answered. ¡°Understood.¡± Since the [Caliburn-Revive] is currently inside the landing deck which leaves laser communication uninterrupted by the enemy, the operator operates her terminal and connects a video communication channel to the [Caliburn-Revive]. Kisei¡¯s face then appeared on the monitor at Alisha¡¯s armrest. ¡°Ah, hello, ma¡¯am. I¡¯m sorry for the abruptness.¡± ¡°We are in an emergency. Hurry up and state your business.¡± Alisha¡¯s reply was blunt but in truth, she was quite surprised at his appearance which is even more beautiful than she expected. One could say that his appearance is bad for her heart. ¡°This will make things quicker, thank you very much. I want to talk to Your Highness about the battleships that are heading toward this location.¡± ¡°I see, do you have a strategy to deal with them?¡± That question was mixed with Alisha¡¯s expectations. If he says that they should abandon this place and flee then all hope would be lost. Their original plan was to engage the enemy¡¯s main force after they dealt enough damage with their strikers and missile vessels. However, that plan has already crumbled to dust. Performing an effective surprise attack, centralizing the troops¡¯ command, neutralizing enemy influential war assets such as the Zenith using guerilla tactics, so far none of the plans they laid out was successful. ¡°Even if it¡¯s certainly a plan, since I don¡¯t have much time to prepare¡­¡­..I don¡¯t think I can do much though.¡± ¡°I expected as much.¡± Alisha groaned. ¡°For the time being, I¡¯m going to push toward the enemy fleet and provide some intel to this side while disrupting their formation.¡± ¡°But attacking such a large fleet with only a small number of units would be¡­¡­Nn? Come to think of it, are you not supposed to be with my daughter¡¯s unit? What happened to Schleer?¡± ¡°Your Majesty, Her Highness Schleer is currently engaging the enemy in another theater¡­¡­.it appears that he¡¯s the only one who managed to join our fleet.¡± An operator answered Alisha¡¯s question instead of Kisei. Kisei was able to break through the enemy ranks and come here only because he managed to steal a ride booster and flew here at full speed. At the moment, Schleer and the others are being stalled in another theater by the enemy Imperial Knights, a Noredian elite unit. They are highly skilled and well-equipped. It would be difficult to shake them off even on a Zenith. ¡°Right now we don¡¯t have any choice. I have to do this by myself. Still, I will do what I can.¡± ¡°¡­..I see, I¡¯m counting on you.¡± Having no other choice, Alisha replied. After all, there¡¯s no use moaning about a force that she doesn¡¯t have the access to. ¡°Ah, also, I have two more requests¡­¡­.¡± Hearing that, Alisha nodded to Kisei. At this point, she can do nothing but support in any way that she can. ¡°While I scout ahead, I will mark the enemy ships that should be easy targets to this side. Please have all your ships concentrate fire on the ships I¡¯m going to mark.¡± ¡°Sure. I understand. I will notify my subordinates.¡± Fighting the enemy while being at a disadvantage is no longer avoidable. It is highly likely that even the flagship she¡¯s currently on is not going to be safe. In an emergency case where she can not command her fleet from this place, it is better to relay her general instructions to the other ships in the fleet beforehand. In the first place, it is entirely possible that Kisei might get shot down even before it comes to that. Her staff officers also seem to realize this and look at her but Alisha silently stopped them from saying anything. Even if they gather all their force and proceed on an all-out attack, it is still unlikely that they will win. That¡¯s why if there¡¯s even the smallest chance they can bet on, they have no choice but to go all in. ¡°You said that you have two requests right. What¡¯s the other one?¡± ¡°It¡¯s about the engagement. I¡¯d like the fleet to engage the enemy while maintaining as much distance from the enemy fleet as possible.¡± ¡°What?¡± Alisha immediately frowned. Noredian battleships outperform that of the Calencian in both sensor performance and attack range. Thinking about it normally, the farther they are from the enemy, the more disadvantaged they will be¡­¡­.. ¡°It will work better for us that way. I will make sure of it.¡± ¡°¡­¡­.Fine.¡± After thinking it over for a while, Alisha agreed. Since she decided to believe in this man, even if the request he made was strange, she thought that she should trust in him. While thinking that if Kisei is actually a Noredian spy, it would all be over for them, Alisha bitterly smiled to herself. ¡°I¡¯m really sorry about everything. I need to head out soon or I won¡¯t make it in time.¡± ¡°I understand. I¡¯m leaving this to you.¡± After disconnecting the communication, Alisha sighs. While listening to the operator¡¯s report of the enemy¡¯s gradual approach, Alisha saw off the white striker as it flew toward the enemy¡¯s direction. ¡°[Wicked Star] huh. I hope that he will be the star of death to the enemy¡­¡­¡­.¡± With the time for decisive battle approaching, Alisha closed her eyes and put her hands together to pray. CH 41 Battle of Leboir [11] A dozen of gigantic battleships are being escorted by countless auxiliary ships in a ring-shaped formation. Not even attempting to hide themselves, their majestic presence could be seen as the triumph of conquerors. Toward such an intimidating sight, a pure white striker is speeding at them like a comet. In response, a fierce barrage from the AA guns flew toward him but the [Caliburn-Revive] evaded it with a sharp turn. ¡°That hurt¡­..Ugh, cough.¡± Attacked by the vicious G that assaulted his entire body, Kisei coughed. His cough was accompanied by not a small amount of blood but he couldn¡¯t afford to wipe it off as he can¡¯t take his hands off the control sticks. ¡°Guh¡­..but, if I don¡¯t do this then who would!¡± His attack is clearly reckless. However, he can¡¯t turn back. His target is the enemy battleships. What he needs to do is to evade the AA barrage from the small and medium-sized cruisers and destroyers that are escorting them and race toward the center of their formation. ¡°WHY IS THAT MAN HERE! He¡¯s supposed to be kept away from this area of operation!¡± At the bridge of the [Odelvansen], Diaroze screamed. ¡°What exactly is the problem here, Your Highness? What can they do with just one striker?¡± Her staff officer calmly replied. Certainly, a striker¡¯s firepower is limited. His ammunition should be enough to sink one battleship at best. Although that may seem like a big loss for them but the loss of one battleship can not turn the tide of battle. ¡°Fool, there¡¯s no way that he just rushed in alone without expecting any kind of support! They must be planning something!¡± Diaroze¡¯s instinct is warning her that no matter what, she should never allow him to get close. ¡°Pulling back the frontline unit backfired on me huh. To think that our reserved units can¡¯t even stall that man¡­¡­..!¡± That¡¯s right. There were only a minimum number of strikers left to escort the fleet since they had dispatched them to keep Kisei occupied. As a result, the [Caliburn-Revive] only has to deal with the storm of AA barrages from the ships to get to the center of the fleet. ¡°I made it¡­¡­!¡± At almost the same time he arrived at the center of the enemy fleet, the battle between the two sides broke out. The main batteries of battleships from both sides loudly barked as powerful blaster beams and Armor Piercing (AP) shells were exchanged. ¡°The ship with the thinnest armor¡­¡­..that one huh.¡± While identifying what appears to be an old-fashioned battleship and relaying the information back to the Calencian fleet, Kisei pointed the muzzle of his anti-ship grenade launcher at a nearby battleship. His target is the Fire-Control-Radar (FCR), a large piece of equipment that is only installed on battleships. With such a big target, there¡¯s no way that he would miss. (TLN: an FCR is ) is a radar that is designed specifically to provide information to a fire-control system) ¡°Alright¡­¡­first one down.¡± The radar array was blown away. Following that, he also fired his blaster rifle toward the navigation radar and the Tadar. (TLN: Reminder Tadar in this story is Tachyon Radar) ¡°Ugh¡­..¡± An ally battleship was sunk by concentrated fire from the Noredian fleet and Kisei¡¯s complexion immediately turned darker. ¡°I have to, finish this soon.¡± Meanwhile, the AA-turrets and high-angle blaster lined up on the deck of the battleships nearby continue to shoot at him. To avoid hail after hail of beam and bullets, Kisei has no choice but to perform tight turns and unnatural maneuvers, making him cough up blood each time. ¡°We lost another one, ma¡¯am! The [Grigor]¡¯s FCR is down, their Fire-Control-System(FCS) is disabled! They can only use the built-in sensors on their turrets now!¡± ¡°Ugh¡­¡­Advance the entire fleet! Put the damaged ships in the lead!¡± With their radars destroyed, long-range shooting is no longer possible for them. To make up for that, Diaroze tried to close the engagement distance but with the advice Kisei gave before the battle began, the Calencian fleet withdrew as much distance as the Noredian fleet is advancing on them and focused their efforts on long-range battle while Kisei continues to destroy the Noredian fleet¡¯s FCR. ¡°Explosion confirmed on board the [Erregen]! Contact lost!¡± A pillar of flame rose on the left-wing of the fleet. After the explosion, the crimson battleship descends as if it could no longer resist the planet¡¯s gravity. However, before it landed, another explosion occurred and its hull was broken in half. ¡°237 people¡­¡­¡­¡± Kiseis mutters as his breath gets mixed with blood. The battleship that had fallen earlier was the one that Kisei marked for concentrated attack. The receiver of the I-con system does not only pick up the brainwaves of the pilot but also of the people in the area. Kisei perceived clearly that hundreds of lives had just been snuffed out in an instant. ¡°¡­¡­.damn it!¡± However, there¡¯s no time for him to sort out his emotions. Perhaps due to blood loss, his vision started to blur. He can¡¯t see clearly anymore. Still, it might be better this way. Kisei shut his eyes. He can steer a striker even with his eyes closed. After all, the information from the cameras and sensors can be transmitted directly to his brain through the I-con system. It will take a heavy toll on him but he has no other choice. After around 10 minutes, 4 of the Noredian battleships have been sunk in total. On the other hand, although the Calencian fleet also suffered some damage, only one of their battleships was sunk. ¡°You still can¡¯t find the enemy flagship yet!?¡± While suppressing the impatience inside her, Diaroze asks her staff. ¡°Not yet, Ma¡¯am. The Calencian do not have any special ship. We¡¯ve only been able to identify standard battleships so far¡­¡­..¡± ¡°Ugh¡­¡­damn penniless country! Just target the ships that look the newest first! You don¡¯t have to sink them, just landing a good blow on their bridge is enough!¡± Diaroze knows that the enemy commander here is Queen Alisha. If she can kill Alisha, the enemy¡¯s command will shatter and they should be able to push through. And perhaps her prayer was heard by the heavens, an AP-shell fired from the [Odelvansen] landed on the bridge of the [Glorious]. Although it could not penetrate the armor plate, it did cause tremendous damage to the command room. ¡°Damn¡­..not that one huh!¡± However, the enemy fleet still functions. They continue to make pinpoint concentrated attacks on their weaker ships. Thinking that the enemy commander is still alive, Diaroze clenched her teeth. ¡°Your Highness, we can¡¯t hold out at this rate¡­¡­please sortie! If Your Highness can kill that mercenary then we still have a chance of winning!¡± It is clear that the enemy¡¯s pint-point attacks were enabled by the information provided by the [Caliburn-Revive]. However, shooting him down is no easy task. That¡¯s why the staff plead to Diaroze, who is in possession of the Noredian most powerful striker, to deal with him. Not to mention that her appearance on the battlefield will increase the soldiers¡¯ morale as well. ¡°Fools! How do you not notice that it¡¯s exactly his aim to lure me out! If I go out, it would only get more convenient for them!¡± If she has to be honest, Diaroze does not have the confidence that she can win against Kisei in a one-on-one fight. Moreover, if she gets defeated in single combat, the morale of her fleet will plummet to an irreversible level. ¡°Your Highness! It¡¯s enemy reinforcements! 50 missile vessels and destroyers. They are being escorted by a large number of strikers as well! They are approaching us at high speed from 8 o¡¯clock.¡± ¡°ARGHHHHH!!¡± Diaroze finally screamed. The Calencian force that was being stalled by their secondary units has arrived. Under normal circumstances, these missile vessels and destroyers are nothing to them. However, in a confused state like this, they stand a chance of breaking through the Noredian escort fleet. ¡°¡­¡­.Withdraw all ships! Have the damaged ship withdraw from battle and leave this system at full speed! The [Odelvansen] will act as the rear guard!¡± Given the situation, she has no other choice. The Calencian is gaining an edge on them. To not let the damage spread any further, Diaroze was forced to withdraw. Although it suffered great damage, her fleet did not suffer to the extent that it reached the point of no return yet. While fighting back, the Noredian fleet pulls out of the system with precise maneuvers. With the Calencian fleet in no state to give chase, the distance between the two sides is rapidly increasing. ¡°¡­¡­it¡¯s finally over.¡± In the cockpit reeked with the smell of blood, Kisei mutters to himself. He fired his thruster and headed toward the Calencian fleet but suddenly, everything went silent. His propellant has run out. The [Caliburn-Revive] crashes and rolls on the surface, blowing up clouds of dirt. ¡°Uugh.¡± With a strong final impact, the striker finally came to a stop. It appeared that he crashed onto one of the sunken Noredian battleships. In his hazy consciousness, Kisei reached toward the crimson armor plate displayed on his main monitor. ¡°If I don¡¯t¡­..get stronger¡­¡­¡­never again¡­¡­..¡± After saying that much, his consciousness was completely cut off. CH 42 Diaroze¡¯s First Ever Rout ¡°Argh, there¡¯s no use winning a battle at the cost of the entire fleet! Why can¡¯t you understand something so simple!¡± Diaroze screams at the radio. She is currently intercepting the Calencian pursuers in the low orbit of Leboir Alpha with her personal striker, the [Zentis]. ¡°What¡¯s so important about a single defeat! I just need to win next time! If you get that then order your ship to retreat already, Fool!¡± With a loud sigh, Diaroze cut off the communication. She has been doing this for a while now. The ships that suffered damage in the earlier battle were only the ones under the direct command of the Imperial Family. The army of the aristocrats who she had been using as decoys are still in good condition, one could say that they had the advantage even. That¡¯s why when they are being ordered to retreat many of them protest Diaroze¡¯s decision. ¡°Ugh¡­¡­..Fools, each and every one of them!¡± While complaining to herself, Diaroze evaded an attack from the enemy [Claymore] and immediately closed the distance at tremendous speed. ¡°Anyway, it¡¯s time to relieve some stress!¡± She proceeds to fire a shotgun in the [Zentis]¡¯s right hand at close range. The shell exploded into pellets and accelerated toward the [Claymore] at high speed while the shotgun was automatically reloaded with a red shell via the belt feeder. Although the shot did not pierce the cockpit, the [Claymore] which was exposed to numerous pellets was ridden with holes with all its sensors and thrusters disabled. ¡°Now, for the finishing touch.¡± Diaroze pressed a button on her control stick and a tentacle-like whip extended from the right hand of [Zentis]. She then mercilessly strike it at the enemy striker which was already rendered powerless. The moment the whip struck the armor, a high-voltage current was released, causing a crackling sound and an intense electric spark on impact. ¡°ARGHHHHHHH!!¡± Hearing the scream of pain from the pilot, Diaroze let out a peal of muffled laughter. With the protection the cockpit provides, the damage from the electrical charge wouldn¡¯t be enough to take the pilot¡¯s life. Still, the pilot should be rendered unconscious for a while. ¡°Hmm, too easy. But, it seems that I still have a lot of prey left huh? I will have them entertain me for a while.¡± Saying so, Diaroze headed off to deal with the remaining Calencian strikers. ¡°Well, that¡¯s about it I guess.¡± In the end, it took her less than 3 minutes to annihilate the remaining strikers in the area. Naturally, she has guards escorting her but since the enemies were nothing special, Diaroze took care of everything herself. The Calencian army in its current state can not afford to organize a proper pursuit. Moreover, by defeating these unorganized enemy troops, she would be able to regain some respect from her subordinates after her defeat. ¡°Phew¡­¡­¡± Diaroze exhales. The screams of her enemies made her feel a little better but she still has a mixed feeling as she looks at her withdrawing fleet. She switches off the mic and mutters something to herself. ¡°How pathetic. At this rate, Mother will be disappointed in me¡­..!¡± Realizing that depressing fact from her own words, Diaroze¡¯s expression turned bitter. She sighs again and thinks about her future. ¡°I definitely can¡¯t let her say that she doesn¡¯t need me anymore.¡± Saying so, Diaroze¡¯s body started to tremble. Her mother, the Empress of the Nored Empire, is a ruthless and cold-hearted person. Even with her own flesh and blood, if Diaroze can not live up to her expectations she would get mercilessly killed off. If not that then finding herself getting coldly reprimanded by her mother is still the most unpleasant thing for Diaroze. ¡°Anyway, I have no choice but to win the next battle. Some battleships were lost but the auxiliary ships are still mostly in perfect condition¡­¡­¡­.If I go on another offensive when there¡¯s no irregular to worry about then I will definitely win.¡± Saying so, Diaroze looked up. In the darkness of space stretched above her, she can see an ominous dully shining crimson star. ¡°If not for that irregular¡­¡­¡­damn you, Hokuto Kisei!¡± Diaroze swore with an irritated expression. ¡°If not for that man! If that man wasn¡¯t there I would have won!¡± Diaroze clenched her teeth and covered her face with her hands. ¡°I should have won, it was my victory¡­¡­..ARGH, did I really lose¡­¡­..is this what a defeat feels like.¡± This is the first defeat in her life. After she recognized that, Diaroze slowly looked up. For some reason, her face is flushed red. She also notices that her breath became hot and there¡¯s a mysterious sensation burning inside her head. ¡°What is this? This feeling.¡± As this strange sensation that she can¡¯t explain ran through her body, Diaroze embraced her body with a strangely thrilling smile on her face. ¡°He must be celebrating his victory by now, I¡¯m sure that he¡¯s real proud about it. After he caused so much pain to me, I want to hold him down and make him scream¡­¡­¡± That should be quite a sweet delusion for her but somehow, it doesn¡¯t feel quite right. Still, Diaroze shook her head and flush out those thoughts. ¡°That must be it. I¡¯m simply looking forward to my victory. Kukuku, just you wait, Hokuto Kisei. I¡¯m going to catch you and make you submit to me! Hahahaha!¡± After Diaroze let out that cold laugh, her smile soon faded as she muttered. ¡°But is that really how I feel¡­..?¡± Her question was unanswered. CH 43 Welcome Back Celebration One month has passed since the battle of Leboir. No major moves were made by neither the Noredian nor the Calencian side since they both suffered severe damage to their forces. Regarding Kisei, after the battle, he had been hospitalized for some time at the Imperial Hospital in the Calencian capital. This is not surprising given that he was unconscious when he was rescued by his allies. The injuries he suffered from combat were serious and it was supposed to take him 3 months to fully recover but he managed to recover in one month thanks to the latest regenerative technology treatment. He¡¯s finally discharged from the hospital one day ago and is now back at the [Radiant]. ¡°Fo-ur, Fi-ve-¡± Kisei has been doing push-ups inside his room on top of the bio-grass mat that he laid on top of the already carpeted floor. ¡°Si-x¡­.Ugh!¡± Hitting his limit after only the sixth time, Kisei collapsed down on the mat. After a dry cough, Kisei continues to breathe heavily for a while. ¡°Damn it. I used to be able to do 10 before.¡± Said Kisei with a pathetic voice. He¡¯s been training like this every day for a long time but for some reason, he couldn¡¯t gain any muscle at all. Even a normal healthy man with no training at all should be able to do more than him. He can¡¯t blame this on anything else but his weak constitution. ¡°Argh, I hate this.¡± While sighing, Kisei wiped his face with a towel. He hasn¡¯t done much exercise at all but he¡¯s still very sweaty. As he lay on the mat wondering how to improve his physical strength, a buzzer sounded from the terminal installed at the door. It appears that he has a visitor. ¡°Yes, coming.¡± He stood up and headed to the door. He thought about unlocking it immediately at first but he changed his mind and used the terminal instead. The outside of the room was then displayed on the screen. His two visitors appear to be Schleer and Saki. There should be no problem letting them in. Thinking so, he pressed the switch and opened the door. ¡°Uwah!?¡± ¡°Awawawa¡­¡­¡± The two behind the door were about to say hello but they suddenly blushed and took a step back when they saw Kisei. Seeing their strange reactions, Kisei cocked his head. ¡°W, what is it? Acting like that all of a sudden.¡± ¡°Y, Y, You! What kind of idiot would open the door to someone with that lewd appearance!¡± ¡°Ha?¡± Hearing Saki, Kisei checks his appearance. He¡¯s wearing a short-sleeved T-shirt and jersey bottoms with the words [Second Inui Junior High School] embroidered on them. It¡¯s certainly embarrassing to still be using his clothes from his school days but there¡¯s really nothing lewd about them at all. ¡°M, Moreover, your flushed face, and the sweat¡­¡­.y, you can¡¯t appear like that in front of others you know!¡± While saying such a thing, Schleer was breathing heavily as she stepped closer to him. Involuntarily, Kisei pulled back. ¡°Why do you smell so good with all those sweats, Kisei-san! This is weird right! Aren¡¯t sweat supposed to be smelly!¡± ¡°Please stay back, Your Highness! Stay back! Stay back damn it! I understand your feelings but stop that already! You will get hauled away by the MP otherwise alright, you Pervert Princess! Oi, Kisei! I¡¯m taking care of this idiot so you go take a shower and change your clothes first!¡± ¡°Ah, yeah.¡± Feeling the danger to his body, Kisei immediately shut the door and locked it. He then heads straight to the shower. ¡°I¡¯m extremely sorry.¡± Thirty minutes later, Schleer bowed and apologized to him in a small dining room inside the ship. After she calmed down, she immediately realized how shameful her action was so she¡¯s currently feeling extremely ashamed of what she¡¯s done. However, this is already the second time this has happened so Kisei was already used to it. ¡°Well, it¡¯s okay. I shouldn¡¯t have let my guard down.¡± ¡°Exactly. You, make sure to be more careful in the future alright? If I didn¡¯t have self-control then you¡¯d have been assaulted by two people already you know.¡± ¡°Eh.¡± The one who raised that voice was not Kisei but Schleer instead. ¡°Assaulted¡­it¡¯s not like that you know¡­¡­¡­..I was only trying to enjoy the smell directly though¡­¡­¡± ¡°Haa!?¡± Saki jumped up and knocked her chair down while her face turned crimson like a boiled octopus. ¡°Y, You¡­.I-¡­.if you¡¯re a woman then just push him down!¡± After realizing what she said, Saki turned toward Kisei. She then hurriedly waved her hands in a panic while trying to think of something to say. ¡°I mean, I¡¯d never do that okay!? It¡¯s just an expression okay!?¡± ¡°Yeah, sure¡­¡­..¡± Why do I have to deal with this while I¡¯m still recovering? Thought Kisei as he looked up to the ceiling. However, since he can¡¯t just ignore them forever, he turned his gaze back to the table. ¡°¡­¡­should we not start eating soon? It would be a waste if this thing gets cold, you know.¡± Said Kisei as he pointed at the steaming pork cutlet. And this is no ordinary pork cutlet. What¡¯s in front of him is the luxurious pork cutlet made from organic ingredients. These days, organic foods are not something that is readily available. To support the massive Vuld population, food these days is made from synthetic or biologically engineered ingredients which have greater yields but come at the cost of their taste. Then why¡¯s there an organic dish in front of them? The answer is that the two have forcibly procured it to celebrate his discharge. They came all the way to Kisei¡¯s room to give him this. ¡°R, Right! Haha!¡± Saki sits back down with an awkward laugh and said so while taking out a bowl filled with white rice. ¡°Alright, let¡¯s eat. Man, I¡¯ve been looking forward to this.¡± CH 44 Please stop using the honorifics ¡°Come to think of it¡­¡­I didn¡¯t get any information about the war at all while I was in the hospital. How is the situation looking now?¡± While playing with his chopsticks with a look of regret on a plate that was left with only shredded cabbage, Kisei asked the two about the war. ¡°Ahh¡­..¡± Schleer, who was going at her 3rd large bowl of rice, considered how to answer him for a moment and placed her bowl down before answering. ¡°More importantly, may I say something first?¡± ¡°What is it?¡± Kisei cocked his head as he didn¡¯t expect that she would answer him with a question of her own. ¡°Umm¡­..I¡¯d like it if you can drop the honorific when referring to me¡± ¡°Eh, why!?¡± The other party is his employer, not to mention a princess. No matter how disappointing she is, it would be bad if he forgot to be polite when he addresses her. ¡°Well, I mean¡­¡­how do I say this, you don¡¯t need to be unnecessarily formal around me and, I don¡¯t want to lose to that woman.¡± ¡°In the last battle, That stalker woman made you stop using honorifics with her right? Her Highness¡¯s been bitter about that a while now.¡± ¡°I see¡­¡­¡± Kisei gave a half-hearted reply while wondering why she would feel that way but Saki¡¯s words seemed to hold true as Schleer turned away with a flushed face. ¡°Besides, I already understand that I¡¯m not someone so great that you should always be polite with¡­¡­after all, I¡¯m a knight who can¡¯t even make it to the battle in time¡­¡­¡­..¡± Seeing Schleer confessing her feelings as her expression gets cloudier and cloudier, Kisei thinks about what she¡¯s talking about for a moment. It seems that she regrets the fact that she could not join the decisive battle in time. Even so, she was being held back by the enemy elite Imperial Knights so it¡¯s natural that she couldn¡¯t make it. Besides, Kisei is quite grateful to her that she managed to keep away the Imperial Knights who would undoubtedly be quite a formidable opponent if they were around to defend the battleships back then. ¡°Both I and Schleer did what we had to do. That¡¯s why we won. I don¡¯t think that you should feel any regret over it you know.¡± Kisei stopped using honorifics and replied. If this can make her feel better then it¡¯s a simple thing to do. ¡°Uu, but¡­..¡± Schleer¡¯s gaze shifts alternately between Kisei and Saki. it¡¯s supposed to be a celebration so she doesn¡¯t want to show her pitiful sight. That¡¯s why she shoved all the negative feelings back inside and nodded to them with a smile. ¡°Yes, you¡¯re right. I¡¯m sorry.¡± Seeing Schleer¡¯s state, Kisei let out a small sigh. It seems that she¡¯s not entirely convinced yet. He can understand her feelings so he decided to not pursue the topic. ¡°Umm, so¡­.about the war situation. It¡¯s mostly quiet now. Perhaps they were shocked to lose that many battleships in the last battle, they did not make any move at all.¡± ¡°It¡¯s something like a stalemate. I¡¯ve been doing nothing but training for a while now too.¡± ¡°I see.¡± Kisei nodded. Since both sides normally can not make any big move after a big battle, this is usually the case after a major operation. ¡°Come to think of it, what about Her Majesty? I remembered that the [Glorious]¡¯s bridge was hit, is she safe?¡± ¡°Yes, well, my mother did suffer a serious injury but there¡¯s no danger to her life. Right now she¡¯s being treated at the hospital inside the capi¡ª-the imperial hospital, the same one you were at, Kisei-san. She can¡¯t continue to command the war with such an injury after all.¡± ¡°Ahh, that hospital. I thought that it¡¯s amazing but I didn¡¯t know that it was the royal family¡¯s exclusive too¡­.¡± Fortunately, his treatment cost was covered by the empire. After all, if they charge him later, he would not be able to pay for it. ¡°Still, this has made me the supreme commander of the Calencian army. I left the actual command to the original staff officers though.¡± The staff officers are rushing back and forth from the headquarters to the [Radiant] and Solana and her subordinates are busy every day because of that. To Schleer who knows that she lacks the ability to be a supreme commander, this gives her quite a heavy feeling as well. ¡°Umm¡­..that must¡¯ve been had.¡± ¡°Yes¡­¡­¡± With a long long sigh, Schleer continued eating her rice. ¡°Fortunately, I will leave for a mission soon. I think it¡¯s a chance that I can finally spread my wings.¡± ¡°Is it a business trip?¡± ¡°I haven¡¯t heard anything about this. Are you going to scout out the enemy, Your Highness?¡± ¡°It¡¯s not that big of a mission. I¡¯m just going to purchase some supplies for the army. I¡¯m going to visit the Kuschel system¡­..have you heard of it? A big trading hub of this region is located there.¡± ¡°Ahh, that place.¡± Kisei was also familiar with her destination. The Kuschel system is a star system where many Starways intersect making itself the center of trade in this region. Since many trading companies opened their offices there. As long as you have the money, it is easy to negotiate deals and procure ammunition and food supplies there. ¡°I¡¯ve frequented that place before. Compared to the other star systems in this region, I think I am most familiar with this one.¡± ¡°Hou?¡± Schleer¡¯s eyes shined. ¡°Then if it¡¯s alright with Kisei-san, do you want to come with me? I¡¯m going there with a high-speed starship belong to the army. I can find a seat for you.¡± ¡°Eh, what, so unfair¡­..¡± ¡°Aah, then please take me with you.¡± While smiling bitterly at Saki, Kisei agreed to accompany Schleer to Kuschel. ¡°¡­¡­there¡¯s actually a restaurant I often visited on that planet. So, if it¡¯s fine with you, can we¡­..visit it together?¡± ¡°Eh, Ehh!?¡± ¡°Ha!?¡± Schleer and Saki raised their voice at the same time. Saki tried to say something but she was interrupted by Schleer who jumped up from her seat. ¡°Is, is that okay?¡± ¡°Well, yes.¡± ¡°B, By all means! Please take me with you! I DID IT!!!!!!!!!¡± Schleer breaks out into a dance at the unexpected windfall while Saki looked at Kisei with a bitter expression. ¡°Oi, take me too.¡± ¡°No.¡± ¡°WHY.¡± Saki pouted at Kisei¡¯s blunt refusal. ¡°There¡¯s something that can only be done there by just two people.¡± Depending on how you take his reply, it could be interpreted as a love confession. However, Kisei¡¯s eyes do not contain that kind of feeling. Rather, he seems to have a hard time asking Schleer to visit the place with him. Thinking that he might have some kind of circumstances, Saki did not press any further. ¡°¡­¡­.seriously, there¡¯s no helping it then.¡± ¡°Sorry.¡± The two talked in a small voice but Schleer, who has been celebrating since earlier, did not notice their exchange. Seeing that, Saki let out a deep deep sigh. CH 45 The man who never learn his lesson After finishing the meal, Kisei and Saki headed for the hangar. Schleer is not with them. Since she needs to discuss our future course of action with her staff and she was forcibly dragged away to a strategy meeting by Solana earlier. ¡°Ah, so you were discharged from the hospital. Glad to have you back.¡± The Chief Mechanic in charge of the [Caliburn-Revive] greeted the two. While bearing a bitter smile on her soot-stained face, she urges them to come closer with one hand. ¡°Hey there. I heard that the cockpit was a mess right? Must have been hard on you.¡± With the blood from Kisei¡¯s damaged internal organs, the cockpit of the [Caliburn-Revive] should appear almost like a murder scene. The staff that has to clean it must have it hard. ¡°No, it¡¯s nothing much at all. This is much better than seeing it come back as scrap metals. The inside seems to be in perfect condition after all.¡± ¡°Well, hahaha, it¡¯s embarrassing that you had to see that but I¡¯m back.¡± Kisei shyly laughed. ¡°Actually, something like this is not the first time for me. I¡¯m pretty much used to getting hospitalized, you see.¡± ¡°You, you always end up like that after every big battle¡­¡­?¡± Saki squinted. Among striker pilots, it is not common to have their internal organs damaged by G force. Setting aside the experimental strikers with maximized output setting, the [Caliburn-Revive] was designed with versatility and ease of use in mind. If Saki pilots it, she would be completely fine even while accelerating at full speed. ¡°Machines designed by Vuld usually have over-the-top specs after all. It¡¯s not just this one striker.¡± Said Kisei while looking at the pure white striker fixed to the maintenance bay. ¡°If a Terran pushes a striker¡¯s output to the limit it will easily wreck their body you know. Well, I¡¯m physically weaker than your average Terran so it¡¯s even worse for me though.¡± ¡°Aah, I¡¯ve heard something about that before. It seems that the strikers designed for Terrans have their specs toned down quite a bit right.¡± ¡°From our point of view, your race is much tougher than ours after all. It¡¯s natural that we would want to lower the specs¡± Unless Terrans undergo a cybernetic surgery which is prohibited by law, they would never be able to win against Vuld physically. It¡¯s no wonder that they would have higher standards when it comes to the safety of their weapons. ¡°Aah, I get it now. I was actually puzzled about this for quite some time.¡± ¡°What are you talking about?¡± Hearing the Chief Mechanic¡¯s muttering, Kisei asks her what she¡¯s talking about. ¡°Well, it¡¯s about your battle data, Kisei-san¡­¡­.honestly, it looked quite strange to me.¡± ¡°I mean, with the kind of movement he pulled during battle, it¡¯s no wonder that the data would look strange right? Rushing into the enemy main fleet and overturning the battle by himself, that¡¯s not something a normal person can do.¡± Saki said in an astonished tone. However, the Chief Mechanic replied that [That¡¯s not the case.]. ¡°The strange part was the operating output you see. The output rate shown on the data was impossibly low. If I take a look at this data without knowing the circumstances then I would have thought that the [Caliburn-Revive] was piloted by an amateur pilot who couldn¡¯t make full use of its power you see.¡± ¡°If I utilize the full specs then I¡¯ll definitely die so¡­¡­¡± His life would be in danger even with the full output of standard mass-produced strikers. What would happen if he operated a Zenith at full power is clear as day. ¡°Somehow, it feels like this thing is wasted on you huh. Still¡­¡­I think saying something like that to a person who¡¯s stronger than me is disrespectful though.¡± Saki has already accepted the fact that Kisei is a stronger pilot. Unlike Schleer who tends to have a lot on her mind, Saki¡¯s way of thinking is quite flexible. If Kisei is physically stronger as well, she wouldn¡¯t find him cute but not only is Kisei extremely weak physically, he¡¯s totally defenseless as a man. To pay him back for looking out for her on the battlefield, Saki thinks that she should protect Kisei from all the thirsty beasts around him as much as he did for her during battle. ¡°Well, it¡¯s true after all, unfortunately. I do feel bitter about it too. You see, if my body is a little stronger then I should be able to do more¡­¡­..that¡¯s what I¡¯m always thinking. ¡°Stop it. The more you can do, the more you¡¯d want to push yourself. You are that type of person. It¡¯s enough as you are now.¡± ¡°You think so?¡± Kisei frowned and crossed his arms. ¡°I mean, you¡¯ve already pushed yourself too far in the last battle right. By the time we arrived, you were already seriously injured, I couldn¡¯t even see you back then¡­..I was worried you know.¡± ¡°There¡¯s no helping it right. If I didn¡¯t do it, we would have lost. Back then, the only way to turn the table was to trust in my guts and rush in. I had to use everything I could.¡± Saki frowned at Kisei¡¯s statement. After all, if she¡¯s put in the same situation, she would have done the same even if she had to sacrifice her life. ¡°It¡¯s better that you don¡¯t do that anymore you know? I would have trouble wondering if I should laugh or cry if a pilot dies when the striker is completely unharmed after all.¡± ¡°Even if you say that¡­¡­.¡± ¡°Besides, reducing the burden on pilots is the job of us mechanics, don¡¯t you agree?¡± Interrupting what Kisei wanted to say, the Chief Mechanic said in a bright voice. ¡°That¡¯s why when you were away, I¡¯ve made some modifications to the [Caliburn-Revive]. I adjusted it according to the feedback you gave and the battle data from the previous battle. You can even call it the Kisei-Custom you know!¡± ¡°Ki, Kisei-Custom?¡± Seeing the Chief Mechanic proudly presenting her work, Kisei gulped. CH 46 Improvements on the White Rabbit ¡°First, please take a look at this. You can see a small device on the shoulders of [Caliburn-Revive] right?¡± Looking at it now, there are certainly small unfamiliar shield-like devices on both shoulders of the [Caliburn-Revive]. They are being held by thin binding arms that reach over from the back. It seems that the devices have a considerable range of movement. ¡°An armor plate?¡­¡­no, I think that¡¯s too small to be one. What are they?¡± Saki asked with a curious expression. Just like Kisei, she is also a striker nerd. Even though it is someone else¡¯s striker, she¡¯d naturally get curious about new equipment. ¡°Anti-missile laser turrets.¡± The Chief Mechanic proudly answered. ¡°These devices have multiple low-power laser oscillators embedded on their surfaces. When the radar detects incoming missiles, they will automatically start intercepting protocol and shoot them down.¡± ¡°I see. Did you get this idea from the time I piloted the [Gradius-kai]?¡± The first time Kisei encountered Valentina, the [Gradius-Kai] was severely damaged by the [Ortho Kratzer]¡¯s micro missiles. Blaster beams and bullets are easy to avoid since they travel in a straight line but missiles that automatically track their targets are difficult to deal with even for him. ¡°As you know, there aren¡¯t many strikers that have anti-aircraft missiles equipped. Its cost is too high and even aristocrats would have a bad image if they use such a weapon. That¡¯s why conversely, strikers usually don¡¯t come equipped with anti-missiles equipment.¡± ¡°The only one who actually prefers using missiles is our princess alone I think.¡± Saki grinned as her gaze turned toward Schleer¡¯s personal striker, the [Mistilteinn] which is fixed on a nearby maintenance bay. Although she often says that she¡¯s a knight, the striker she pilots is literally rugged walking artillery arsenal. Normally, an aristocrat¡¯s striker is often designed for close quarter combat though¡­¡­ ¡°That striker was designed with a certain concept in mind, you see. Since ours is a small country, it necessitates Her Highness to be able to deal with a large number of enemies by herself after all¡­¡­¡± The Chief Mechanic defended Schleer with a bitter smile. Since she¡¯s not just the Chief Mechanic here but also a member of the Imperial Engineering Department, she¡¯s also involved in ordering supplies and refurbishing the [Mistilteinn] as well. ¡°Aside from that, the reason that missiles are unpopular is that against your average striker, a blaster beam is sufficient enough to take them down. That being said, it seems that this kind of weapon works surprisingly well against you, Kisei-san.¡± ¡°It¡¯s pretty simple to avoid and parry normal bullets after all¡± ¡°No, I think that¡¯s pretty damn difficult though¡­¡± Hearing Kisei says such a thing like it¡¯s nothing much for him, Saki mutters in a small voice. ¡°Well, but it is still true that missiles can give Kisei-san a lot of trouble on the battlefield. If I were a Noredian Commander, I¡¯d equip every striker under my command with missiles to deal with him you know. Kisei-san is not an opponent that you can spare your expense against after all.¡± ¡°I¡¯ve had many bad experiences because of that actually. It was seriously tough dealing with them¡­¡­¡± ¡°You say that but you are still completely safe though.¡± ¡°Well, I¡¯m Hokuto Kisei after all. The name [Wicked Star] is not just for show you know.¡± After displaying a smile brimming with confidence, Kisei continued. ¡°But it will certainly be a lot easier for me with this kind of equipment. How much can I count on it?¡± ¡°Of course, this device should be plenty enough to deal with most things already. Its design is based on the device that shoots down small debris on transport ships. I think I can say that it is ready to be used in actual combat.¡± As though she had been waiting for him to ask that question, the Chief Mechanic answered. ¡°Laser-based weapons that only deal damage through heat usually have a bad affinity with regenerative armor but missiles do not have that kind of protection. This is especially true for Micro-Missiles so I think it will be quite effective against them.¡± Regenerative armor can convert heat into electricity at high efficiency so a low-power laser is practically ineffective against it. The blaster beam, on the other hand, may simply appear like charged particles but it actually works like an ultra-high-speed bullet since the charged particles have the property of increasing its mass as it accelerates. The heat damage caused by it is merely a side effect. ¡°That¡¯s good to hear.¡± ¡°Cool right. But this is not all you know.¡± ¡°There¡¯s more?¡± Faster than Kisei could reply, Saki raised her voice. It makes one wonder whose striker is being modified here. ¡°To make this short, I have attached a bayonet to the blaster rifle. I¡¯ve seen that you often go into close quarters with your rifle after all.¡± ¡°Hou.¡± As she said, there was a large-single-edged sword attached to the underbarrel of the rifle of the [Caliburn-Revive]. It doesn¡¯t look exactly like the bayonet knife used by infantry but it¡¯s long enough to be used as a short sword by itself. ¡°Naturally, it was designed for ease of movement so it should be easy to attach or detach it on the battlefield. Its uses should be quite flexible so please try it out later.¡± ¡°Hmm, it seems pretty useful for an ambush and surprise attack, doesn¡¯t it. I will thankfully use it in the next battle.¡± ¡°This one looks pretty nice. Can I get one to attach to my submachine gun too?¡± With her eyes glittering, Saki stepped forward with her request. Her striker is specialized in close combat. It would give her a great advantage to be able to quickly shift from long-range to close-range weapons. ¡°Ehh¡­..your submachine gun is it? I think that it will feel awkward to handle though¡­..well, I will discuss it with the other team later.¡± The Chief Mechanic seems slightly hesitant but she did not ignore her pilot¡¯s request. Although the modification of the [Dainsleif] is completely outside of her jurisdiction, she still has some connections with the team in charge. For now, it seems that she will get in contact with the [Dainsleif] team later. ¡°Back to the [Caliburn-Revive]. I think that should be it for the visible changes. The rest of the changes should be internal but the biggest change would be to the capacitor of the inertial control system¡­¡­¡­¡± It seems that the Chief Mechanic still has more to say. Thinking that she and her team must have put a lot of time and effort into the remodeling, Kisei keeps listening with a cheerful smile. CH 47 The Princess, Go All Out At the Fifth planet in the Kuschel system, Kuschel-Secundus. This planet that is slightly smaller than Earth was terraformed (Albeit terraform may not be an accurate term as the technology used was not based on Earth) and made habitable. This Kuschel-Secundus is a large spaceport that serves as a trading hub in this area. At the 3rd spaceport of Kuschel-Secundus. A small high-speed spacecraft bearing the Calencian coat of arms is parked on the Megafloat city set up in the middle of the ocean. ¡°Hmm, I¡¯m a little Leary huh¡­¡­¡± At the pier in front of the ship, Kisei muttered while gazing at the night sky. He¡¯s meeting up with Schleer. She had left the ship yesterday to negotiate with the trading companies here. According to the schedule, she should be back soon. They are supposed to head to the restaurant he mentioned to her after this. ¡°It would be nice if I can head out for a little walk. To think that it would be another house arrest once we arrived ¡­¡­.there¡¯s a limit to what I can do to kill time you know.¡± Due to Schleer¡¯s strict order, Kisei was prohibited from going out. As the city prospers in trade, the public order here is not that good. Just in case, Schleer doesn¡¯t want him to go out by himself. However, Kisei is unamused by this. The wharf usage fee at the 3rd spaceport is cheap so Kisei who frequently travels around using affordable passenger ships is quite familiar with this place. He knows how to safely travel around here. ¡°Seriously¡­..I¡¯m not some sheltered young lady alright.¡± ¡°Hey.¡± As Kisei was complaining to himself, a person called out to him. When he turned to look, he found a woman in gray work clothes standing there. She¡¯s wearing a cap that¡¯s hiding her eyes and he can¡¯t make out her face but her identity is clear as day. ¡°Makishima-san!? Aren¡¯t you supposed to be on the [Radiant]¡­¡­¡­..¡± With that characteristic black-haired ponytail, there¡¯s no way that he can mistake her for someone else. It¡¯s Saki. She immediately puts a finger on her mouth and speaks to him in a small voice. ¡°You idiot, there¡¯s no way I can leave a defenseless guy like you alone right. I snuck onboard the ship!¡± Saying so, she pointed at the high-speed spacecraft that Kisei traveled here on. ¡°On this small ship!? How did no one spot you.¡± ¡°Hehe, I have some acquaintances you see. I made them help me.¡± ¡°I mean¡­¡­well, for you to go out of your way to snuck onboard a ship, Do I look that unreliable to you?¡± Kisei squinted as he asked her that question. Schleer¡¯s the same, there sure are a lot of people who¡¯re worried for him these days. He does feel grateful for their feelings but he couldn¡¯t help but think that they are being overprotective. ¡°Well, yeah. Outside of a striker, you¡¯re practically like a newborn chick after all. I can see you getting hauled away by some random thugs here you know.¡± ¡°That much?¡± It¡¯s true that he¡¯s physically very weak so it¡¯s difficult for him to make a counterargument but he still can¡¯t hide the shock from the way she said it. ¡°Also, it¡¯s too dangerous for you to be left alone with that pervert. What would you do if she slipped something into your food?¡± ¡°I mean, Her Highness is not the type of person who would do that right. There are times that she acts like a pervert though.¡± ¡°It¡¯s not ¡®like a pervert¡¯, she¡¯s literally a pervert. Besides, there are times that we can¡¯t control ourselves even when we want to, you know for women. It might be impossible for a man to understand though¡­¡­¡± ¡°W, well¡­¡­.¡± Leaving the chaste Vuld gentleman aside, Kisei is a Terran. That being said, it¡¯s not like he can¡¯t understand what Saki tried to say. He¡¯s used to it now but when he first became a mercenary, there were times that he succumbed to temptation. He managed to escape in the end though. ¡°Anyway! Take this. Make sure to hold on to it alright.¡± Saying so, Saki handed him a plainly designed pen. Kisei examines it as he takes it in his hand but he doesn¡¯t spot anything unusual about it at all¡­¡­ ¡°It¡¯s something like a personal alarm. If you press the button, it will send a signal to my mobile terminal. Just press it when you think that it¡¯s getting dangerous for you. I will go rescue you immediately.¡± ¡°You brought something amazing again¡­¡­I don¡¯t think that I will have a chance to use it but I will take up on your kindness. Thanks.¡± Kisei can¡¯t help but think that she¡¯s being overprotective but he understands that her action came purely from her goodwill. That¡¯s why he obediently accepted it and tucked it into the arm pocket of his flight jacket. ¡°Good¡­¡­..Ah, Her Highness should be back soon. See you later!¡± Saki glanced at the pier and returned to the ship. There should be many crew members on board the ship but it doesn¡¯t look like Saki has any intention to hide from them at all. It seems that she does have a lot of acquaintances helping her huh. ¡°Haa¡­¡­¡± Kisei let out a small sigh. Then, just like Saki said earlier, after a few minutes of waiting, Schleer arrived. ¡°H, Hi. Thank you for waiting.¡± Schleer said with a clearly tense voice. Moreover, her clothes are different than usual. She¡¯s wearing a dark blue hakama and teal-colored haori. For footwear, she¡¯s wearing Taishou-Roman-style boots. This white-haired girl in Japanese clothes looks extremely beautiful under the moonlight. (TLN: Taishou-Roman style is the fashion trend mixing the Taishou era of Japan and western influences, see below) Hakama Haori (Outerlayer) ¡°Y, you sure poured a lot of effort into this didn¡¯t you.¡± Kisei said while cold sweat dripped down his back. ¡°H, How is it? I heard that we are going to visit a Japanese restaurant so I bought them in a spur of the moment.¡± ¡°I think you look very cool. Yup, I will surely stick out standing next to you.¡± Even more so when she dressed like that and walked around with him who¡¯s in his usual clothes. Their destination doesn¡¯t have a dress code so they will probably stand out there as well. Imagining such scenarios, Kisei groaned. ¡°I, I did it!¡­¡­tha, that¡¯s not it. It, it, it, it won¡¯t be like that at all you know. I mean, Kisei-san looks very cute after all! Rather, I would be laughed at if I stood next to you since we are so out of balance¡­¡­hahaha! How troubling.¡± ¡°That¡¯s just stupid.¡± If Schleer just stayed silent, she would be one of the most beautiful girls he has ever seen. If someone told them that they looked out of balance then surely, the cause is definitely not her. However, given the rarity of finding a young man in a place like this and his appearance, Schleer is the correct one here. ¡°W, Well, let¡¯s leave that aside! Shall we!?¡± After she said that in a loud voice, Schleer offered him her hand. ¡°Eh, we are going to hold hand!?¡± ¡°I, I mean, as a lady, I thought that I should properly escort Kisei-san in an occasion like this¡­¡­¡± Schleer replied while her porcelain white cheeks were dyed bright red. Seeing her like that, Kisei can only smile. ¡°I will be the one who guides you though.¡± ¡°Ah! Awawa¡­¡­that¡¯s true¡­¡­.¡± Seeing that her cheeks turned even redder than before, Kisei let out a small sigh. ¡°Well, whatever. Let¡¯s go.¡± ¡°Ah¡­¡­¡± After taking her hand, Kisei started walking. Shocked, Schleer, whose inside of the head has already turned pure white could only move her feet to follow him. CH 48 The Princess, was made to cry It took them around 30 minutes to arrive at the restaurant. They then were guided to their reserved seats which is a small private room with tatami mats flooring. Inside, there¡¯s a stationary stove installed on a traditional Japanese-style table. (TLN: the table here is a Horigotatsu where the floor beneath the table is hollowed out) ¡°This is a sukiyaki place you see, it¡¯s kind of my favorite food.¡± ¡°Hou, sukiyaki.¡± Schleer gulped as she stared at the flat bottom pot set on the stove. ¡°It¡¯s your favorite? This dish?¡± ¡°Rather than mine, it¡¯s actually my mother¡¯s favorite. The taste of sukiyaki here is kind of similar to what we used to eat together so¡­¡­¡­..I think it makes me feel nostalgic too.¡± ¡°Hou, then¡­¡­let¡¯s dig in. I¡¯m looking forward to this.¡± Saying so, Schleer brings the meat from her plate to her mouth. This place doesn¡¯t use any luxurious organic meat but the chef here is quite skilled. You can enjoy good sukiyaki here without worrying about the price tag. For a while, the two chat and enjoy their meal together. ¡°Fumu, this thing¡­¡­.I think it will go well with Japanese alcohol. What do you think, Kisei-san?¡± Schleer asked while checking what¡¯s on the menu. In response, Kisei shakes his head. ¡°Actually, I¡¯m super weak with alcohol, so¡­¡± In the first place, albeit barely, Kisei is still a minor. He has almost no experience with alcohol. At most, it would be when he drank one by mistake. ¡°Ah, is that so. My apology. Hahaha.¡± Schleer did not press him to drink with her and simply used the button to call a waiter to order two more large servings of rice. ¡°Eh, you are not going to drink?¡± ¡°Drinking alone is no fun, you know.¡± ¡°My bad.¡± ¡°Please, it¡¯s okay. I have more than enough fun eating with you like this.¡± Following that, even without the benefit of alcohol, Schleer laughed in an extremely good mood. Seeing that, Kisei cast his eyes down. Actually, he did not invite her to have fun today. He has something to talk to her about. ¡°¡­..wh, what is it? Did I, perhaps, say something wrong¡­¡­.?¡± Schleer anxiously asked. However, Kisei simply smiled and waved his hand sideways to dismiss her anxiety. ¡°No, it¡¯s not like that. Actually, the reason I invited Your Highness here today is that¡­..I want to have a serious discussion with you. So I¡¯m a little¡­.¡± ¡°¡­¡­I see.¡± There are a lot of matters that come to her mind. Her expression stiffens as she urges him to continue. ¡°As I thought, is it about our last battle¡­¡­.the battle of Leboir?¡± ¡°Well, that¡¯s correct. But I want to talk about what happened before that as well.¡± Said Kisei as he folded his arms. ¡°¡­¡­I have caused Kisei-san a great deal of trouble. It¡¯s a knight¡¯s shame to not even be able to make it to such a decisive battle.¡± As though their earlier good mood together flew off somewhere, Schleer looked away with a self-loathing expression. ¡°That¡¯s exactly what I want to talk about. It doesn¡¯t matter that you didn¡¯t make it in time. Rather, everything turned out alright in the end. If such a skilled striker unit was escorting the enemy battleships, I wouldn¡¯t have been able to sabotage them to that extent after all.¡± Kisei openly stated his thoughts as he stared at Schleer. Leaving aside the initial attack he performed when they first joined the battle, he did not have to engage with the enemy Imperial Knight at all. However, he could tell that they were elites among elites. If Schleer and Saki hadn¡¯t stopped them back then, they would have joined up with their main fleet. ¡°Both Your Highness and Lt. Makishima has done your part and the operation resulted in success. I am not trying to cheer you up here, I¡¯m simply stating the facts.¡± ¡°But¡­¡­Kisei-san was seriously injured in the end. A knight who couldn¡¯t protect someone who should be protected is¡­¡­¡± ¡°You see, I¡¯m not someone who needs protecting. At the very least, not while I¡¯m piloting a striker.¡± As if to cut her words, Kisei decisively stated so. ¡°It¡¯s not like I¡¯m a princess, no¡­¡­listen, I¡¯m no prince. I am a pilot. I¡¯m here to fight on a battlefield not being protected by my employer.¡± ¡°Th, that¡¯s¡­.certainly true but.¡± Tears slowly drip down from Schleer¡¯s eyes. Feeling that, she roughly wipes them with her hand. All that comes to her mind are her pathetic moments. Even though she has already displayed this pitiful sight to him once, she was elated when he invited her out for a meal. Feeling a tremendous amount of self-hatred, Schleer¡¯s bitter at how simple she is. ¡°I¡¯m, I¡¯m sorry. I couldn¡¯t be more pathetic¡­¡­!¡± Schleer was trying to stop her tears but instead, her tear ducts started flooding more due to her shame and embarrassment. Now, her face is a mess and her tears drip to the table. ¡°¡­..There¡¯s one thing I want you to know and one thing that I want to hear from you. May I?¡± At his gentle voice, Schleer turned her gaze back to Kisei. His black pupils are staring straight at her. She can not feel any intention to ridicule or take pity on her from his eyes. ¡°What¡­..is it?¡¯ ¡°It¡¯s the root of this matter. The core of your worry.¡± Kisei says in a quiet but sharp voice. ¡°Mine and your reasons to fight. That¡¯s what we should know about each other to solve your worries, Your Highness.¡± CH 49 A Tail and the Intelligence Agency ¡°This is getting more serious than I expected¡­¡­.¡± Saki muttered to herself in a small voice while putting her finger on the small speaker in her ear. She¡¯s currently hiding in an unpopulated back alley near the restaurant. For her appearance, she is wearing a black suit, a black fedora and although it¡¯s already nighttime, she¡¯s also wearing sunglasses for some reason. Furthermore, as though that doesn¡¯t look suspicious enough, there¡¯s also a Japanese sword hanging at her waist. ¡°Something he wants to say and one question he wants to ask huh. I wonder wh-¡­¡­..¡± While she was muttering to herself, a group of women in suits soundlessly snuck up to her. The moment Saki noticed she was already surrounded by them. ¡°Wha!? Who are you!?¡± Saki herself is not an amateur either. It is no easy task to sneak up on her like that. That¡¯s why she raised her voice and her hand was immediately placed on the grip of her sword. ¡°We are with the Imperial Intelligence Agency. Lt. Makishima Saki, correct? What are you doing here?¡± Replied a middle-aged woman with a vigilant expression that betrayed her appearance. At the same time, she also flashes her ID to Saki with one hand to give credit to her identity. It appears that the ID was not forged. ¡°Oh, what, same side huh.¡± Saki sighed in relief and let go of her sword. She thought that it was a group of local mafia or police at first but since they turn out to be Calencian soldiers, she has no intention to fight. ¡°Not so fast Lieutenant. According to your order, are you not supposed to be on standby at the [Radiant] right now? It¡¯s clear that you¡¯ve snuck on board Her Highness¡¯s spacecraft¡­¡­.it would not be a stretch to put you under suspicion of being a spy, no?¡± ¡°Come on. I swear to god I¡¯m not doing anything of the sort.¡± Saki replied with a shrug. Since she doesn¡¯t think that she¡¯s done something bad at all, her conscience remains guilt-free even when under such an allegation. ¡°So, are you guys here to escort Her Highness and Kisei?¡± ¡°¡­¡­that¡¯s right.¡± Seeing no reason to lie about their mission, the middle-aged woman answered. ¡°I¡¯m doing something similar myself. Here, listen to this.¡± Saying so, Saki tossed the small speaker she had in her ear at the middle-aged woman. When she puts it on with a doubtful expression on her face, a familiar voice can be heard from the speaker. It¡¯s Kisei and Schleer¡¯s voices. ¡°This is¡­¡­..¡± ¡°I secretly gave Kisei a bugging device. If something goes wrong I can go over and rescue him you see.¡± This was another hidden function of the pen she gave to Kisei earlier. The alarm is actually just the bonus, this here is its real function. If Schleer makes a move on Kisei, it¡¯s more than likely that Kisei won¡¯t even have the chance to push the button after all. ¡°My purpose here is rather similar to yours. The person I am most wary about is Her Highness though.¡± ¡°Wait, but, that¡¯s¡­¡­..¡± The middle-aged woman turned speechless as she turned to look at her subordinates. What Saki said is not an impossibility. However, is that not too rude toward her own princess? ¡°Her Highness would never do something like that.¡± ¡°Even if you say that, she¡¯s already tried to force her way into his room once you know. I managed to stop her in time though.¡± ¡°Wha!¡± Exclaimed a young intelligence officer. Her beast ears also pointed up in an excited state. ¡°I¡¯m so jeal¡­¡­.I mean, how shameful!¡± ¡°Come to think of it, I think I saw Her Highness lecherously stare at that mercenary before too.¡± ¡°Honestly, I doubt she can keep her sanity while being alone in the same room with such a cute man.¡± The intelligence officers started mouthing off their opinions. Hearing them, the middle-aged woman coughed lightly. ¡°Won¡¯t you stop? That¡¯s disrespectful to Her Highness.¡± Even while her mouth said that her expression still remained unconvinced. After all, it¡¯s true that Schleer does have a habit of running out of control. ¡°Her Highness is a pri¨C¡­..no, she¡¯s a prudent person. She wouldn¡¯t lose control just because of a man¡¯s sex appeal.¡± ¡°But, Chief!¡± A young intelligence officer who seems to have completely taken Saki¡¯s side protested but the middle-aged woman stopped her by raising her hand. ¡°But they are still a man and a woman. Accidents can happen sometimes and the man will always be the victim¡­¡­¡± Giving up, the Chief looked up at the night sky visible through the gap between the building. There¡¯s a huge gap between Vuld men and women in terms of physical strength. There is no man who can resist if he gets pushed down by a Vuld woman. ¡°I have a son who¡¯s around that mercenary¡¯s age. I don¡¯t want him to suffer a bad experience. If it comes to that then we will cooperate with you.¡± Saying so, the Chief returned the small speaker to Saki. After receiving it back and putting it on, Saki grins. ¡°I know I can count on you.¡± ¡°But. The fact that you¡¯ve violated your order still stands. I will have to report this to the higher-up.¡± Said the Chief in a cold voice. Hearing that Saki looked like she was splashed with cold water. ¡°Y, You don¡¯t have to do that right. Cut me some slack here.¡± ¡°Well, it will only end with some admonition and a reflection report. Don¡¯t worry.¡± ¡°How can I not! Do I look like the type that¡¯s good at writing that kind of report!¡± ¡°Oh, I can tell that you aren¡¯t.¡± The intelligence officers around them burst out laughing at the Chief¡¯s reply. CH 50 Ego ¡°Why do you think I continue to make a living on battlefields? I¡¯ve already paid off my debt. My parents¡¯ house was bought back with the advance payment from this job. Even so, I still haven¡¯t quit being a mercenary. Do you know why?¡± Kisei asks in a quiet and gentle voice. With tears in her eyes, Schleer tries to think of an answer. However, she couldn¡¯t find any. Surely, it isn¡¯t about money. Rather, she notices that he¡¯s the type that couldn¡¯t care less about such a thing. Even though they haven¡¯t known each other that long, she can tell that much. ¡°¡­¡­.I don¡¯t know.¡± Schleer replied with a shaky voice. Seeing that, Kisei took out tissue paper from a pocket in his flight jacket and handed it to her with a bitter smile. Schleering received the tissue and sloppily blew her nose into it. ¡°To be completely honest, the reason I continue working as a mercenary is that it¡¯s the only job that can satisfy my ego.¡± ¡°Ego¡­¡­?¡± ¡°Yes. I guess you can call it selfish desire too.¡± Hearing an unexpected answer, Schleer stays silent. The word desire should be able to paint a vivid picture for her but she still doesn¡¯t understand him. He doesn¡¯t seem to be the type to fight for greed after all. ¡°I¡¯ve said this many times before. I hate seeing people die. I¡¯ve told you right, I can see the manifestation of human emotions through the [[I-con]] system.¡± Said Kisei as he looked out the window. Schleer on the other hand takes that chance to quietly blow her nose again. ¡°Since it¡¯s a kill or be killed situation, everyone desperately fights with their lives on the line. Everyone is desperate to live. The emotions that I feel on the battlefield¡­¡­.they are strong, intense, and honestly very fascinating.¡± ¡°But¡­¡­¡± Is that not a cruel hobby? That¡¯s what she¡¯s about to say but the expression on Kirei¡¯s face was so calm that Schleer couldn¡¯t bring herself to continue. ¡°When people die on the battlefield, those intense emotions will disappear in an instant. Don¡¯t you think that it is a waste? The heated feelings inside people¡¯s hearts, the weight behind them, everything would immediately turn to nothing in just a moment you know? I can not allow that.¡± Returning his gaze to Schleer, Kisei smiled a little. ¡°Being a mercenary has its perks. Even if I don¡¯t kill anyone, no one can give me any trouble if I do my job right. No matter what absurd methods I use, I can silent everyone as long as I can keep producing results. A person belonging to an organization can not afford that kind of freedom.¡± ¡°So, Kisei-san is saying that you fight because you don¡¯t want people to die?¡± ¡°That¡¯s right, I want to save as many lives as possible. I¡¯m strong so the more I fight, the fewer people will have to die. Besides, if I keep incapacitating the enemy¡¯s vessels without killing the pilots, the damage to my ally would lessen too right?¡± Someone that¡¯s not on Kisei¡¯s level of skills would never be able to live up to such an ideal. Still, the fact stands that he did manage to turn the tide of battle all by himself. Only outsiders would be able to shamelessly complain about his method. ¡°Even so¡­¡­..you pushed yourself too far. It was like you were fighting to save your enemy at the cost of yourself. To be honest, I couldn¡¯t stand to see it.¡± Schleer squeezed out her voice to say that. She still remembers Kisei¡¯s reaction when they sank an enemy ship. It clearly impacted him a lot. Not to mention how he launched an attack on the enemy main fleet all by himself. Although he won in the end, his body couldn¡¯t keep up with the output of his striker and was on the verge of dying. ¡°You¡­¡­someone with your mindset and body is not suitable for fighting¡­¡­.I can¡¯t allow you to¡­..¡± Schleer herself knew best how empty her words sounded. Even if she put her all into it, she would not get anywhere near Kisei¡¯s level. Thinking so, tears flood her eyes. ¡°I know that but it¡¯s not something that I can stop doing. It is my ego at work here after all.¡± Instead of comforting her, Kisei smiles. The reason he didn¡¯t try to do such a thing is that he thought it would only be disrespectful to her to try comforting her now. ¡°Your Highness, you should pour your heart out here as well. What exactly do you want to do? What do you seek out of fighting? If you can be sincere with me about this then I will be very grateful. Whatever it is, I will accept it.¡± ¡°¡­¡­¡­¡± For a while, Schleer thought about how to answer. ¡°I want to be someone who can protect you.¡± ¡°No, not that.¡± Kisei immediately cut her off, making Schleer¡¯s eyes wide open in surprise. ¡°Don¡¯t dress it up. It can be dirty, it can be ugly! If it¡¯s truly something you desire then you mustn¡¯t look away! You have to be true to yourself. If you run away from yourself, you will run away all your life. It is something that you need to accept and face it head-on.¡± Schleer shut her mouth and closed her eyes. She then took a deep breath and slowly exhaled. ¡°I¡­¡­I want to show you that I¡¯m strong. I want you to say [Wow! You¡¯re so cool! Please marry me!], that¡¯s truly what I want¡­¡­.!¡± She¡¯s aware that she just made a ridiculously pathetic remark. If you say such a thing out loud even a hundred years of love would get cold. Thinking that Kisei might be disappointed by her answer, Schleer sneaks a look at him. However, all she saw was a big smile on his face. ¡°That¡¯s it! That answer is as good as any! Isn¡¯t it fine, having that kind of goal?¡± ¡°B, But.¡± ¡°No but. You are way better than someone who acts all high and mighty while unable to accept themself¡­¡­.No matter what gets your ego going, someone who is true to themself is way stronger than someone who¡¯s not. After all, as long as you know what you truly want, the harder you will strive to obtain it.¡± Kisei leaned over and pat Schleer on the shoulder. ¡°Since you started accepting what you truly want, you are a little stronger now, Your Highness.¡± ¡°I¡­..am?¡± Schleer muttered. Before she knew it, her tears had already stopped. ¡°That¡¯s right. As a person, you have to take small steps to get stronger. To achieve your goals, whatever it may be, you need the ability to overcome your obstacles after all.¡± Hearing his words, Schleer tried to say something to Kisei. However, earlier than she could, the sliding door to their private room was vigorously opened. ¡°I¡¯ve heard something interesting!¡± With a loud echoing voice, a tall blonde woman in a jet-black military uniform appeared in front of them. It¡¯s Valentina. ¡°Wh, wh¡­¡­! Why are you here¡­¡­!¡± TLN: And she appeared!!! Well, since it¡¯s Ch.50, I guess we¡¯re already 1/6 of the way already huh¡­.. CH 51 Intruder ¡°Answer me! Why are you here! Valentina Tous Argarine!¡± At this sudden and unexpected encounter, Schleer pulled out her revolver which she hid inside her hakama. Still, even with the muzzle of a high-caliber gun pointing at her, Valentina remains unfazed. ¡°Oh my, you don¡¯t have to be so alarmed. I didn¡¯t come here to fight. Rather, I¡¯m here to deepen our friendship. ¡ª- I will be fine. Just wait for me outside.¡± The last part of her words seems to be directed at the bodyguards who are probably behind her. After dismissing her escort, Valentina entered the room and shut the sliding door, of course, while having Schleer pointing her revolver at her. ¡°Hello there, My Love. It¡¯s been a while, hasn¡¯t it? Have you been well?¡± ¡°W, well, not really¡­¡­¡± Kisei tensely answered Valentina¡¯s casual greeting. In fact, he technically hasn¡¯t been well since he just got discharged from the hospital the other day. ¡°That¡¯s no good at all! The last battle was certainly a fierce one. You must have it rough.¡± ¡°Answer my question! I don¡¯t mind blowing your head off right now okay!?¡± ¡°Hahaha, you are not as intimidating as you think with all that tears and snotty nose you know.¡± ¡°What did you say¡­¡­.!¡± ¡°I¡¯d advise you against that. This is not a combat zone. Making scenes here will cause a diplomatic problem later you know.¡± Schleer put her thumb on the hammer of her revolver and was about to cock it but Valentina stopped her. ¡°Ugh¡­..¡± Even while their countries are at war, it would be a problem if they cause a ruckus in the territory of another unrelated country. Since Valentina doesn¡¯t show any sign of pulling out her weapon either, Schleer reluctantly holstered her revolver. ¡°Good.¡± Valentina grins while Schleer gritted her teeth. ¡°B, but seriously, what are you doing here? I don¡¯t think Noredians frequent this restaurant though.¡± Kisei timidly asked. This place¡¯s main customers are commoners. Let alone royalty, even aristocrats rarely visit this place. Well, come to think of it now, Schleer is also a princess though¡­¡­.¡± ¡°What, I¡¯m simply in the area for some business. I happened to stop by at the port and heard that the Calencian also came here to negotiate a deal. Since this woman¡¯s here, I thought that you might be with her you see.¡± ¡°B, But how did you know about this place.¡± ¡°I¡¯ve done a lot of research about you, you know. Favorite food, hobbies, the places you frequent¡­¡­..that¡¯s why I know that if you visit this planet, this is the place that you would be.¡± ¡°As I thought, you really are a pervert stalker¡­¡­..!¡± Taken aback, Schleer exclaimed ¡°Hahaha, call me whatever you like. My Love, mind if I sit next to you?¡± ¡°Ah, yes.¡± As if it¡¯s a matter of course, Valentina sits down next to Kisei who could only stiffly consent. Using that time, Schleer wipes her face. Certainly, with this kind of appearance, she would hold no power in this conversation. Everything she does will turn out humorous instead. ¡°Thank you for the wait.¡± A waitress came in to serve the large bowls of rice Schleer ordered earlier. Then when she sees the bizarre atmosphere between the two princesses, she starts making an [Ara Ara smile]. ¡°You¡¯ve got your work cut out for you, Hokuto-san.¡± ¡°W, Well¡­..hahaha.¡± With his acquaintance saying such a thing, he could only smile and laugh it off. The waitress then bitterly smiles back and puts the bowls in front of Schleer. ¡°Don¡¯t lose okay, if you are a woman then just trust your guts and go for it!¡± The waitress whispered that into Schleer¡¯s ear. On the other hand, Schleer nods at the unexpected encouragement. ¡°Sorry, I¡¯d like you to prepare another serving.¡± ¡°Yes, right away.¡± Valentina places her order with a smug expression and the waitress leaves the room with a smile. ¡°Now then, I do feel bad about it but¡­¡­¡­actually, I heard what you two were talking about from the outside.¡± When Valentina suddenly said that with a smile, Schleer immediately turned pale. She just made a statement that she definitely does not want her parents to hear, let alone her nemesis. ¡°H, How much did you hear¡­¡­!¡± ¡°Just the part about why My Love continues to fight.¡± That¡¯s a lie. However, Valentina is also a warri¡ª¨Cno, a knight. Naturally, she possesses some empathy toward another knight. ¡°T, Then that¡¯s fine. It¡¯s fine.¡± Since Schleer never expected her enemy to be that considerate for her, she took Valentina¡¯s words at face value and sighs in relief. When Kisei glances at Valentina, he sees her giving him a mischievous smile in return. ¡°This also puzzled me for a long time you see. Why does a person of My Love¡¯s caliber continue to work as a mercenary. With how skillful he is, he would go very far serving in the military¡­¡­.that¡¯s what puzzled me.¡± Probably had no intention to continue talking about Schleer¡¯s situation, Valentina simply continues. ¡°Fighting to keep as many people as possible from dying. That¡¯s something a soldier would never be able to do. I understand you now.¡± ¡°I do think that it¡¯s a foolish ideal. It¡¯s not like I mistake people¡¯s lives for sakura petals or something.¡± While crossing his arms, Kisei said with a frown. It may sound good to say that people¡¯s lives are important but the reality is not so beautiful. ¡°Fufufu, isn¡¯t it okay? The more someone fights for their life, the more precious their life becomes. That¡¯s the underlying idea behind being an aristocrat. I understand that idea. Even so¡ª-¡± With a grin, Valentina wrapped her arm around Kisei¡¯s shoulders. ¡°I¡¯ve never heard someone say that it would be a waste to see someone die. People¡¯s lives are irreplaceable, they are not tools. We are on the same page on that. And I¡¯ve to say that I¡¯ve never been happier to see eye to eye with someone before.¡± ¡°S, sure.¡± While observing Schleer whose veins are almost popping, Kisei agrees with Valentina. He never thought that he would meet someone who understands his way of thinking. However, this is Valentina. It¡¯s possible that she¡¯s just giving him some lip service. ¡°That¡¯s why I¡¯ve made my decision. I know now what I should be aiming for.¡± ¡°Wh, what is it?¡± ¡°I will take the Nored Empire for myself. Then, using that power¡­¡­¡­.My Love, we are going to create our country¡­¡­together.¡± ¡° ¡° Ha!? ¡° ¡° In response to her crazy statement, Kisei and Schleer raised their voices at the same time. CH 52 Riling ¡°Certainly, being a mercenary gives you the perk that you can fight as you like. There won¡¯t be any complaints as long as you get the result.¡± Said Valentina as she began stirring the raw eggs in the bowl. Without even looking at her hand, her gaze remained fixed at Kisei. ¡°But you must already know that there¡¯s a limit to what you can do as an individual.¡± ¡°Said someone whose fleet got repelled by said individual huh.¡± Schleer replied with a taunt. Certainly, the Calencian victory was directly linked to Kisei¡¯s achievement. It is not so common for an army that outnumbered their opponent by more than 2:1 to lose like that. However, Valentina remained unfazed and raised the corner of her mouth to smile mockingly at Schleer. ¡°Oh, but that¡¯s not really important. The Calencian¡¯s victory does not equate to the victory My Love desired after all.¡± Schleer¡¯s mouth trembled when Valentina pointed that out with a cold voice. She was about to argue back but she knows that it would be reckless to blindly get into this argument. That¡¯s why she pondered for a few seconds and slowly opened her mouth. ¡°¡­¡­that is true. Many have lost their lives in that battle. The previous battle must have been a bad experience for Kisei-san.¡± Although Kisei did not kill them himself, the Calencian fleet managed to sunk 5 Noredian battleships due to his help. Considering the damage to the auxiliary ships and large cruisers suffered during the exchange fire, the total number of casualties should already be in 5 digits. For him whose goal is to not let anyone die, this must have been quite a disappointing result. ¡°However, be that as it may, it is still an incredible result. If we lost, not only it will be a devastating defeat for us, it will be genocide. Our capital is crowded with refugees from the purge bombing your army performed. If they do the same thing there, my people would have nowhere left to run¡­¡­.¡± Schleer told them the worst possible ending. However, it was extremely likely that their defeat would result in that outcome. From the point of view of the concerned parties, there¡¯s nothing to complain about the result they achieved. ¡°In that case, the death toll would easily exceed dozens of billions. Compared to that, this is still much better.¡± ¡°I will have to agree with you on that.¡± Valentina nods while pulling out a piece of meat from the pot with her chopsticks. By the way, the pot is full of meat and vegetables because of the additional serving of ingredients that she ordered earlier. ¡°Although I belong to the Noredian army, I still think that what my sister did was overkill. I still can¡¯t wrap my head around the reason why my sister would resort to such extreme means.¡± Even if it was performed on enemy territories, Valentina has been opposing the purge bombing her army performed on the civilians from the start. ¡°But¡­¡­there is only one person who can stop this ridiculous conflict without causing unnecessary death. Do you know who it is?¡± ¡°¡­¡­the Nored Empress.¡± Muttered Kisei as he silently chewed on green onions. Originally, this war was born from the Nored¡¯s desire for expansion. To stop such a war, you would need the authority of the most powerful person of Nored. After all, she was the one who triggered it. ¡°Exactly.¡± Valentina immediately affirmed. However, even though it is a tyrannical nation ruled by aristocrats and royalty, the one who spearheaded this is not necessarily the Empress herself. It is quite possible that even the Empress opposed this invasion. The reason why that possibility escaped her mind was probably due to her youth. There¡¯s also the fact that she has been living as a soldier without dabbling herself in politics at all as well. ¡°I am on the lowest seat of succession. I thought that I was not born to sit on the throne¡­¡­but that changed after I met you. To achieve something big, I need the power proportionate to it after all.¡± ¡°Well, to be honest, I¡¯ve thought about that too.¡± Kisei said with a light sigh. Seeing that, Schleer frowns at him. ¡°Kisei-san.¡± ¡°Oh, don¡¯t worry. I don¡¯t have any political skills in me. I can only do so much within the range that I can reach. I wouldn¡¯t be any good in politics after all¡­¡­..¡± ¡°Besides, we are talking about this woman here. I can¡¯t help but think that she¡¯s just trying to use your skills for her own ambition.¡± Schleer glares at Valentina with distrust. Naturally, if Valentina has Kisei at her side, it would be easier for her to move up on the succession ladder. To Vulds, a race where the children born are usually twins, the family headship is inherited usually not by the order of birth but ability. As long as the family head is still alive, if you can show that you can produce results, your chance at inheriting the family would increase. ¡°To use you to fulfill not only her desire but her ambition as well¡­¡­..what a despicable woman.¡± ¡°It¡¯s the first time someone said that much to me, you know.¡± Valentina couldn¡¯t hide her bitter smile as she scratched her cheek and continued talking. ¡°Of course, that is not my intention. I¡¯d never put the person I love in the middle of such an ugly political conflict.¡± ¡°To use the word love with someone who you just met only a few times doesn¡¯t really sit right with me though.¡± Kisei muttered as though he doesn¡¯t know if he should be impressed or astonished instead. Obviously, Kisei has no intention of responding to her feelings. He is a healthy man but he doesn¡¯t want to try his chance at crossing the river Styx whenever he goes to bed by marrying a Vuld. ¡°Hmm, it doesn¡¯t matter how many times we¡¯ve met. The day I met you, my heart was beating out of my chest. This is true love, something that I am ready to sacrifice my life for.¡± ¡°Uwah.¡± Kisei was involuntarily taken aback by embarrassing words. On the other hand, Schleer¡¯s expression looks like she¡¯s about to vomit. ¡°That¡¯s why even if I have to do it alone, I will continue to fight. I will definitely take the throne and welcome you as my prince. I want you to wait for me until then.¡± Valentina whispers that into Kisei¡¯s ear while stroking his cheek with her fingertips. Schleer tried to get up to peel her off of him immediately but Valentina quickly moved away and grinned at her. ¡°Whoa, sorry about that. That was rude of me.¡± ¡°Hmph¡­¡­.if I see you do something like that again I will literally kick you out of here myself.¡± ¡°Oh, that sounds scary.¡± Valentina said that with a smile and glance at the military watch on her left hand. Her smile disappears and she lets out a small sigh. ¡°¡­.what a shame, I have to head back to my ship soon. Seriously, time sure flies when you are having fun.¡± ¡°Eh, you are going back already? Did you have your fill?¡± ¡°Haha, you are so kind, My Love. It¡¯s okay, I¡¯ve already eaten my fill.¡± Valentina waves her hand. Glancing at the pot, it is true that its content has decreased by a lot. Kisei is a light eater and Schleer is already full. That¡¯s why the only culprit here can only be Valentina. ¡°Very well, stay healthy My Love. Until we meet again.¡± Valentina stands up and takes a moment to kiss Kisei on his forehead. The soft sensation made him pulled back a little. ¡°Y, You shameless vixen! Unforgivable!!¡± ¡°Hahaha, it seems I have to get away before I really get shot, farewell!¡± While smiling at Schleer who pulled out her gun again, Valentina leaves like the wind. Left behind, Schleer could only breathe heavily from her anger. ¡°Da, damn that vixen¡­¡­I won¡¯t let her off the next time I see her¡­¡­.¡± ¡°L, let¡¯s calm down first, okay?¡± Seeing Schleer forgot even to be polite, Kisei involuntarily leaned forward to hold her shoulders. With her breath still rough, she turns her glaring eyes toward Kisei. ¡°I¡¯ve already decided to quit thinking about each and every small thing. I understand now that there¡¯s no use worrying over my own weakness¡­¡­.That¡¯s why I will do everything I can to get stronger and put an end to that woman!¡± Schleer¡¯s eyes are burning with the flame of jealousy and anger, any trace of her tears has long since disappeared. CH 53 The Princess, Freed A few days since the sukiyaki visit. Nothing special happened and they safely returned to the [Radiant]. Schleer still couldn¡¯t calm herself down yet. She snuck out of the meeting that she had been attending since yesterday and headed to the shooting range. This facility which was set up on board the ship to train their ground force is a little bit on the smaller side compared to the one they have on their homeworld but it is still a well-equipped shooting range. ¡°¡­¡­¡­.¡± Right now Schleer is holding a high-caliber standard issue rifle. Her shooting form is beautiful. When the humanoid practice targets spring up, she quickly and accurately fires at them. At the same time the gunshots rang out, the bullets landed on the metal silhouette and knocked them down with a loud bang. ¡°Fuu.¡± While exhaling, she ejects the empty plastic magazine and reloads the rifle with the spare magazine she has on her vest. At her feet, there were already a lot of empty magazines. After reloading, she simply continues her target practice. There were several crew members around her but no one was brave enough to approach her due to her visibly bad mood. The only sound echoing inside the room was her gunshots. ¡°Ahh, this is where you are, Your Highness. It¡¯s unusual to see you here.¡± That silence was broken by Saki who walked into the shooting range. Leaving her rugged appearance aside, her equipment including the rifle is the same as Schleer¡¯s. ¡°¡­¡­you too. Normally, you would spend your time at the dojo right?¡± Lowering her gun, Schleer replied in a quiet voice. Onboard the [Radiant], there¡¯s also a dojo where you can train in melee combat in addition to the shooting range. Since Saki¡¯s striker¡¯s main weapon is a sword, you would normally find Saki there. ¡°Well, I¡¯ve thought about things too you see.¡± Saki replied while averting her eyes from Schleer. She does feel a bit guilty eavesdropping on Schleer¡¯s conversation the other day. In the end, she never had a chance to show up that night. She was standing by near the restaurant just in case but the dinner wrapped up without any incident. She did intend to jump in there if Valentina¡¯s bodyguards tried something though¡­¡­ That being the case, Saki heard everything from the moment she cried to when she confessed her desire. Even so, even if she can¡¯t just come out and say [I planted a bug on Kisei that night so I know what you¡¯re going through], Saki still wants to help Schleer. ¡°I thought that swinging around my katana won¡¯t cut it anymore you see. That¡¯s why I want to try to broaden my horizon.¡± ¡°¡­..that¡¯s admirable.¡± Schleer awkwardly smiles. With the [[I-con]] system in place, the skill of the pilot also affects the striker¡¯s performance in combat. For example, a pilot who is good at sharpshooting will be able to perform advanced shooting techniques while piloting a striker. ¡°I intend to practice my sword arm after this. Do you mind accompanying me later?¡± ¡°Sure.¡± Saki shrugs. Practice shooting alone can be quite tiring already but it seems that Schleer still wants to do more after this. ¡°You seem quite enthusiastic, Your Highness.¡± ¡°Well¡­¡­.¡± Schleer averted her eyes and replied. ¡°I¡¯ve set a goal for myself and I know that if I don¡¯t achieve it, I won¡¯t be able to move forward.¡± ¡°A goal? Can you tell me what it is?¡± ¡°It¡¯s nothing important.¡± Saying so, Schleer¡¯s face burst into a smile. Her smile looks like she was just freed of the weight on her mind. Seeing that, Saki was relieved. It seems that she¡¯s not being dragged down by her dark emotions anymore. ¡°First is to get rid of that devious pervert persistent stalker from Nored.¡± ¡°I agree on that one. I don¡¯t think I can let my guard down until I reduce that woman to dust first.¡± She can appear out of nowhere and start sexually nibbling on Kisei after all. That¡¯s not someone Saki can allow to exist. Saki¡¯s grip on the rifle started to shake. It appears that she got irritated just to be reminded of Valentina. ¡°Even so, our opponent is strong. What¡¯s even more annoying is her position, If we can not lure her out into single combat, we will have to deal with her escorts as well¡­¡­! We can not take her down if we go at it half-heartedly.¡± Perhaps she shares the same feeling, Saki¡¯s eyes were burning with anger. A moment later, Saki couldn¡¯t bear it anymore and started laughing while Schleer followed suit. The two laugh together for a while before the atmosphere finally calms down. ¡°Fufu, it¡¯s been a while since I laughed so much.¡± Schleer said while wiping her tears. ¡°That¡¯s true. We had been on a losing streak after all.¡± Until their victory at Leboir, the Calencian army suffered defeat after defeat. Coupled with the cruel actions performed by their enemy, the army used to have a much darker atmosphere. ¡°By the way, since Your Highness said [first]¡­..this means that you have another goal right?¡± ¡°Yes.¡± Schleer replied. Getting rid of Valentina is important but that is not the only thing she wants to do. ¡°My second goal is to get stronger, even if it¡¯s only little by little. I know that it¡¯s useless to whine that I can¡¯t protect that person with how I am now. Even if I have to take small tiny steps, I want to get stronger so that I can support him. That¡¯s what I want to do.¡± If she can do that, then the burden placed on Kisei might lessen. That was Schleer¡¯s wish. It is clear that their victory was obtained through his success. Both on a personal level and as a princess of Calencia, Schleer feels that fighting alongside him is a correct action. That¡¯s why there¡¯s only one path ahead of her. She has to keep training. Whether it be shooting, swinging swords, or basic training, she will do anything to get stronger. ¡°Right now it might be impossible but I will surely show him how cool I am someday¡­.fufufu¡­¡­¡± ¡°Did you say something, Your Highness?¡± ¡°It¡¯s nothing.¡± Schleer averted her eyes and smiled. That night, when she told Kisei what she truly desired, he didn¡¯t deny it. Schleer felt like she was saved because of that. That¡¯s why she stopped pretending or making up beautiful excuses. What she has to do is show off how skilled she is in front of Kisei and make him fall for her. And she will not spare any effort to do that. ¡°Well, let¡¯s not waste time talking. Our time is limited after all.¡± ¡°Sure.¡± Since she knows the circumstances, Saki understood Schleer¡¯s feelings. That¡¯s why she simply let out a bitter smile and walks into the shooting booth. ¡°Alright, I have to do my best too!¡± CH 54 Offense or Defense ¡°The [Glorious] has undergone minimal repairs and is now able to return to active duty. Our preparations for an offensive are also completed, Your Highness.¡± From a big screen inside the meeting room, an old woman in a military uniform stated in a loud voice. This person is the Martial Duchess of the Calencia army, Reit Cadenza who¡¯s currently serving as the Calencia army¡¯s chief of staff. (TLN: The author added the word Martial/Military in front of the usual title to signify that the holder of the title is not a Duchess in the traditional sense [with land/subjects/etc.] but a peerage within the military instead) As he looked at the Chief of Staff who suggested the Calencia army to launch an offensive with such enthusiasm, Kisei¡¯s was lost for words. The meeting which is held at the [Radiant] which has now become the flagship of the Calencia army has reached an impasse. ¡°However, the difference in number between ours and the Nored¡¯s forces is still enormous. Do we truly stand a chance to win in an offensive battle?¡± The one who raised that question was Solana, Schleer¡¯s direct subordinate as well as the 3rd Fleet¡¯s staff officer. She appears unconvinced by the Chief of Staff¡¯s plan and stands up to continue her protest. ¡°We could say that our previous victory at Leboir was all thanks to Sir Hokuto¡¯s success. I think that it would be too hasty for us to launch an offensive while using such a miracle as a basis.¡± ¡°Even so, we can not hope to win this war if we simply hold up in our stronghold forever. Martial Marchioness Solana, your way of thinking will only resign ourselves to an inevitable defeat.¡± While glaring back at Solana with a valiant expression unsuitable for her age, the Chief of Staff refuted her protest. ¡°No subordinate would follow a cowardly leader. If you are an aristocrat¡ª¨Cthen you should perish such manly cowardice already.¡± ¡°Wha¡­..!¡± Solana¡¯s face was dyed bright red. The relationship between the Chief of Staff who prefers attacking over-cautious approaches and Solana has always been one that is similar to the one between cats and dogs. It¡¯s not just once or twice that the two turned a meeting into a wrestling match because of their differences. ¡°Bickering between allies won¡¯t do us any good. Please stop this already.¡± Schleer stopped them with a fed-up expression. There is such an exchange at every meeting and she¡¯s honestly gotten sick of this. ¡°Besides, we have a man with us today. Please refrain from using the word ¡®manly¡¯ like that.¡± ¡°Hmph, I¡¯m against having a man attending a strategy meeting from the start though.¡± In response to Schleer¡¯s warning, the Chief of staff glared at Kisei. That being said, it¡¯s not like he¡¯s here because he wanted to either. Since all the previous meetings Schleer attended ended up frankly unproductive, Schleer half-forced him to attend this one so that they can ask for his opinions. ¡°Hahaha¡­¡­.sorry.¡± Even Kisei doesn¡¯t know how to react and just laughs it off. Still, the Chief of Staff¡¯s cheeks were dyed red and she had to avert her eyes away from him. ¡°W, Well, I do admit that he played an important role in the previous operation¡­..¡± ¡°Exactly.¡± Schleer¡¯s eyes turned completely cold. It was as if Schleer¡¯s asking what¡¯s with her falling for such a young man at her age. ¡°H, Hmph. Well, let¡¯s leave that aside. So, Mr.Mercenary. What kind of approach do you think our army should take next? Well, I¡¯m only asking for reference though.¡± ¡°Even if you ask me¡­.¡± Kisei is just a soldier who fights on the battlefield. Since he didn¡¯t graduate from a military academy or studied strategy and tactics, even if she asked for his opinion on future operations, he doesn¡¯t really have any insight to give them. ¡°Umm, I need to ask something first¡­¡­how are we doing on our ammunition and fuel? Do we have enough for such an operation?¡± ¡°We do you know.¡± The one who answered was not the Chief of Staff but a girl with white short hair who looked very similar to Schleer. Unlike the military personnel around her, the design of her military uniform looked plain in comparison. This plain uniform is the one issue to the Calencian Logistics Officer. ¡°Originally, we didn¡¯t have much left but Schleer-chan just went to buy supplies for us the other day right? They should arrive here soon.¡± ¡°I didn¡¯t manage to procure that much supply though¡­¡­.will it really be enough, Aneue?¡± (TLN: Aneue = Elder Sister) ¡°If it¡¯s only one offensive operation then I think that it should be manageable. It will be a little tough for us later though¡­¡­.¡± After checking for their available supply using the terminal on her armrest with a difficult expression, she continues in a cautious tone. ¡°Still, since this operation will be conducted within our territory, it¡¯s unlikely that the enemy can attack our supply route. We should be able to manage.¡± ¡°I see. Thank you very much.¡± After nodding at her, Kisei returned his gaze to the Chief of Staff. ¡°As long as we have the supplies, I can fight. No matter who my opponent is, I will definitely take them down.¡± In the end, the answer he gives is not one with detailed tactics. After all, Kisei thought that it would not be appropriate for an amateur like him to say too much here. ¡°Please do not count on me turning the table on the enemy like last time though. If the only things I have to deal with are the enemy ace units or Zenith-types then please leave them to me.¡± ¡°Fumu. Certainly, it¡¯s not good to allocate that much force into anti-ship warfare.¡± ¡°¡­..we did manage to preserve our anti-ship units in the previous operation but¡­¡­I think that it will be unwise to leave Sir Hokuto to deal with the enemy strikers alone.¡± Perhaps finding Kisei¡¯s answer to her liking, the Chief of Staff glanced satisfactorily at Solana. Solana appears to be unconvinced but she reluctantly agrees to the offensive. ¡°The Nored¡¯s Imperial Knights and their Zeniths are extremely powerful. If we can eliminate them with the minimal amount of personnel then won¡¯t that give us a big advantage over them?¡± ¡°Ugh, that¡¯s certainly true but¡­¡­.¡± Feeling that she¡¯s losing this argument, Solana turned her resentful gaze toward Kisei. In return, Kisei puts his hands together and lowers his head to apologize. Seeing that, Solana let out a small sigh. ¡°There¡¯s no helping it then. Let¡¯s work out an offensive plan that can reduce as much loss as possible then.¡± ¡°It¡¯s good that you finally agreed.¡± Said the Chief of Staff with a big smile on her face. CH 55 The Assertive Elder Sister ¡°Haaaa, it¡¯s finally over.¡± Kisei sighed and stretched as he left the meeting. It has been several hours since the meeting agreed to go on an offensive. Since he had nothing to do except occasionally giving his opinions on the operation plan, it was a very boring several hours for Kisei. ¡°Good Wo-rk.¡± The moment he heard that, Kisei felt the coldness of a can of cafe au lait pressed on his cheek. When he yelped in surprise, the culprit teasingly smiled at him. ¡°My bad, My bad, did I startle you?¡± When Kisei looked back in a hurry, the girl in the Logistics Officer uniform who had attended the previous meeting with him was there. She looked a lot like Schleer from a distance but up close she looked almost identical to Schleer. The only two differences between them are her uniform and hairstyle. ¡°Ah, Umm, you¡¯re Your Highness¡¯s¡­¡­¡­.Schleer-sama¡¯s Onee-sama?¡± ¡°That¡¯s right. I¡¯m Schleer¡¯s elder twin sister, Frea Henrietta. Nice to meet you¨C.¡± Frea sat down in the chair next to Kisei and shook his hand with a smile. That being said, cold sweats started to form on Kisei¡¯s forehead due to her strangely friendly attitude. ¡°N, Nice to meet you, Your Highness.¡± ¡°Too stiff. You don¡¯t have to be so polite with me, just forget about the honorifics okay.¡± ¡°I don¡¯t think that it will be appropriate¨C¡± ¡°It¡¯s fine, trust me! My right to succeed the throne is even below Schleer-chan¡¯s after all.¡± ¡°You are saying that yourself¡­¡­¡± Kisei felt like something¡¯s wrong when he coupled her high-tension attitude with her appearance which is almost identical to Schleer. With a tense smile, he pops open the can of cafe au lait and puts it up to his mouth. ¡°Hmm¡­..sweet things taste really good when you are tired. Thank you for this.¡± ¡°You¡¯re welcome!¡± When Frea happily responded, Kisei took out a lollipop from his pocket and handed it to her. It¡¯s one of the strawberry-flavored lollipops that he always carries with him. ¡°Please take this as a return gift.¡± ¡°Fufu, you are so kind. Onee-san(In-Law)¡¯s happy you know.¡± ¡°The nuance behind your use of ¡®Onee-san¡¯ is kinda off though?¡± ¡°You must¡¯ve imagined it.¡± ¡°Is ,is that so¡­¡­¡­¡± Seeing Frea reply while chewing the lollipop he gave her in a good mood, Kisei couldn¡¯t say anything more. She¡¯s a difficult opponent to deal with. ¡°Oya, Kisei-san and Aneue. I never thought I would see you two together.¡± The person who walked into them was the tired-looking Schleer. Her gaze turned to the unusual pair. She was about to sit down next to Kisei but Frea stopped her. ¡°Ah, Schleer-chan, your seat is here.¡± Frea stood up and urged Schleer to sit down on her seat. Schleer on the other hand was puzzled by her sister¡¯s action but she ended up complying with her. Just like that, Frea sits down next to Schleer so Schleer is currently being sandwiched between Kisei and her sister. ¡°By the way, it sounded like you two really got along earlier¡­¡­.did you know each other before the meeting?¡± ¡°No, this is my first time meeting her.¡± ¡°I, I see. Hahaha¡­..¡± Schleer let out a dry laugh when Kisei bluntly said so. ¡°Don¡¯t mind the small details, our relationship will be a long one after all? Right, Schleer-chan?¡± ¡°W, Well, I¡¯d be happy if that¡¯s the case.¡± In response to her sister¡¯s straightforward question, Schleer turned her face away with her cheeks bright red. Frea then grins and taps on Schleer¡¯s shoulder. ¡°So, for future reference, I want to ask you something¡­¡­¡± ¡°Wh, what is it?¡± Hearing her sister whispering that to her, Schleer involuntarily asked back in a small voice. ¡°Schleer-chan, what do you think about polygyny?¡± ¡°EEH!?¡­¡­Ugh, well, if it¡¯s Aneue then I don¡¯t really mind.¡± ¡°REALLY!? Nice!¡± Frea almost broke out into a dance. Seeing the two sisters like that, Kisei looks at them with a weirded-out expression. ¡°I think I heard some strange word just now¡­¡­what¡¯s polygyny?¡± ¡°Ah, shoot, he heard us.¡± Frea who clearly seemed to be overtly panicking about this tries to play it off. ¡°Wh, whatever could it mean? Onee-san(In-law) never said something like that though¨C¡± ¡°Nope, you totally said it. What does it mean!¡± Kisei pressed for an answer. However, it was not from Frea that he got it from. ¡°Allow me to explain. polygyny is a marriage shared between multiple women¡­..Normally, it¡¯s the case where sisters share a husband.¡± It was Solana. With a clearly sour expression, she violently sits down next to Kisei while fluttering her blue semi-long hair. ¡°Th, Thank you¡­..if that¡¯s it then I think I¡¯ve heard about it before. This polygyny thing¡­¡­.¡± ¡°Unlike the Terrans, we Vulds have very few men compared to women. Without such a system in place, most women would end their lives unmarried after all.¡± Crossing her arms, Solana defiantly stared at the two sisters. ¡°However, that commonly only applied to commoners and low-ranking aristocrats. When it comes to the royal family, I think that monogamy is the traditional practice though?¡± ¡°Really? But we are only a small country right. I don¡¯t think that we have to strictly follow such a tradition don¡¯t you think?¡± ¡°Well, I¡¯m merely a vassal after all. I have no place to voice my opinion about such a thing¡­¡­.¡± Contrary to her words, Solana¡¯s gaze still says that they should refrain from doing such a thing. In response, Frea takes Solana¡¯s gaze head-on with a wide smile. ¡°Ah, sorry but I need to have my daily cup of ramen now. See you all later.¡± ¡°Please wait a minute! Don¡¯t leave me here and escape alone!¡± Since his stomach started to ache from the conversation, Kisei tried to excuse himself but he was caught by Schleer. ¡°S, Sorry, it was my bad! I¡¯m actually a very good friend with Solana-chan you see, Right! Right!¡± As though she can¡¯t allow them to leave, Frea hurriedly hugged Solana from behind as she also stood up to leave. ¡°Wh, What! Your Highness! Please stop this! I¡¯m not into girls you know!¡± ¡°Hahaha, same!¡± After tapping Solana¡¯s back, Frea releases her. ¡°Umm, well, so¡­¡­.what exactly is this about, Aneue? Do you have something to talk about with Kisei-san?¡± Feeling that the conversation was heading in a weird direction, Schleer straightforwardly asked her sister. Hearing that, Frea clapped her hands and smiled while saying [Ah, That¡¯s right]. ¡°Actually, tomorrow, our younger brother will visit this ship and I¡¯d like to ask Kisei-kun to be his escort.¡± ¡°Eh.¡± Instead of Kisei, the one who puzzledly exclaimed was Schleer. ¡°What, I haven¡¯t heard anything about this¡­¡­..¡± CH 56 The Cajoling Elder Sister Schleer and Frea¡¯s younger brother will be visiting the [Radiant]¡­¡­.in other words, a Calencian Prince is coming to visit them. To Schleer who hasn¡¯t heard anything about this visit before exclaimed in surprise, Frea continues. ¡°That¡¯s because I didn¡¯t tell you.¡± ¡°You didn¡¯t¡­..but this is a big deal right. This place is a den of starving beasts you know!? How could you let a fragile child like him visit such a place.¡± ¡°It does sound persuasive when the words came from one of the starving beasts in question huh¡­¡­¡± ¡°I only have eyes for you so you don¡¯t have to worry about me, Kisei-san! Everyone officially recognized that already after all!¡± ¡°Uwah, she went and made it official!¡± Hearing such a headache-inducing conversation between the three, Kisei placed his palm on his forehead. It was him who told her to be honest about her desire but he didn¡¯t mean to make her make it public knowledge. ¡°Still, even if you ask me to be his escort, I don¡¯t really know what to do though. Can I take out a striker?¡± ¡°Of course not. Have you ever heard of a personal escort consisted of strikers before?¡± ¡°My fighting power outside of a striker is even lower than your average old lady you know. Why would you want to attach such a weak escort to guard your brother?¡± Vuld men generally possess the same strength as a Terran woman or less. However, Kisei¡¯s physical strength is even below that of your average Terran. Let alone acting as the prince¡¯s escort, the prince may have to protect Kisei instead. ¡°I mean, the escort thing is just for appearance¡¯s sake you know? It¡¯s not like there is serious danger here, right?¡± ¡°Seriously¡­¡­¡± Kisei muttered dejectedly. He hasn¡¯t piloted a striker for more than a month already. He actually wants to use his free time for training and get back to form as soon as possible. ¡°Rather, why¡¯s that child¡­¡­why¡¯s Ao visiting this place? I don¡¯t understand.¡± ¡°He will be here to comfort the soldiers. Among our people, Ao is as popular as an idol after all. If we hold a hand-holding session for the soldiers, it will surely raise morale for our army.¡± ¡°I mean, he¡¯s certainly a cute boy but¡­¡­as his older sister, it¡¯s a little too much to willingly send my own younger brother on such a mission though.¡± Frea sighed at Schleer who voiced her protest. She then approaches Scheer and whispers something to Schleer with a voice that is inaudible to Kisei. ¡°It¡¯s an opportunity to let him bond with our family members, right? This is called ¡®being thorough¡¯ my dear sister.¡± ¡°W, Wow¡­¡­I never knew that Aneue is such a genius.¡± ¡°Well, Schleer-chan doesn¡¯t want your relationship with Kisei-kun to end with [Thanks, Good bye], when the war¡¯s over right?¡± ¡°Of course.¡± ¡°See? Leave this to your sister.¡± Solana looks sternly at the two and gently gives Kisei a warning. ¡°It seems that they are planning something strange again. Please do be careful.¡± ¡°W, well, I don¡¯t know about Frea-sa¡ª-¡­..Frea but, I know that Her Highness is not a bad person, so¡­¡­¡­.¡± ¡°Even if Her Highness Schleer is a good person at her roots, she¡¯s still very weak when it comes to resisting her desire though¡­.¡± ¡°That¡¯s for sure¡­¡­¡± Hearing Kisei¡¯s groan, Solana nodded with a meek expression. After all, she has served under Schleer for a long time so she¡¯s quite familiar with her personality. ¡°Hmm, Anyway, that¡¯s how it is. Kisei-san, may I leave my younger brother¡­¡­may I leave Ao in your care? Since there are only women around him, he must be tired of that already. Having a male friend to accompany him once in a while should be refreshing for him too.¡± ¡°Ah? Yeah, well, sure. I wonder how many months has it been since I last talked to a man myself.¡± Kisei scratches his cheek with a frown. He didn¡¯t have many chances to meet a fellow man as he worked on the battlefield. He used to have a male partner but that friend got married a while ago and he hasn¡¯t met him since. ¡°Exactly! Ao is a little bit of an introvert but¡­..he¡¯s a good boy. I¡¯m sure that you two will get along well.¡± ¡°That¡¯s right. I will set up a place where you two can chat alone. It would be nice to have some boys talk right?¡± ¡°Is that so? Well, if you put it like that¡­¡­¡± ¡°I think you¡¯ve been completely cajoled though¡­¡­¡± Solana shakes her head with a rugged expression while muttering so in a small voice. ¡°Rather, these people, they are totally planning to set up a rose garden right¡­¡­..Argh, I have to stop them.¡± ¡°I feel like I heard something that could be punishable by lese majeste but, did I just imagine it?¡± ¡°What are you talking about, Your Highness? You must have misheard something.¡± ¡°That¡¯s fine I guess?¡± The two glared at each other with a burning gaze. When Kisei finally thought that Schleer and Saki have got along better, now he has to deal with this. Kisei¡¯s now wondering if he¡¯s the so-called [Circle Crusher]. (TLN: Circle Crusher is a Japanese word describing someone, usually female, who joined a club and cause the existing friendship to crumble due to romantic situations.) ¡°If you are always on edge then it will be bad for your body you know¡­¡­¡­please take this and calm down.¡± ¡°Muh¡­.¡± Saying so, Kisei took out another one of his usual lollipops and pressed it against Solana. On the other hand, Solana received it with her eyebrows raised. ¡°To think that the first gift I received from a man is a candy¡­¡­.¡± Frea bitterly smiles at Solana who chews on the lollipop with a happy yet somewhat dissatisfied expression. ¡°Just how many of those lollipops do you have in there?¡± ¡°A lot.¡± Kisei said while showing four more lollipops from his pocket and Frea couldn¡¯t do anything but smile at him. ¡°W, Well, with everything settled, I will be counting on you tomorrow okay? Kisei-kun.¡± ¡°Okay, Okay, I will use this as a chance to spread my wings too.¡± In the end, he ended up taking the job. CH 57 The Sisters¡¯ Drinking Party That night. Inside Schleer¡¯s room, Frea is swirling the alcohol in her glass while smiling in a good mood. ¡°Well, it¡¯s been a while since I last had a drink with Schleer-chan huh. I think we didn¡¯t have any chance to this even before the war started right.¡± ¡°Yes¡­¡­I think it¡¯s been more than half a year since we last did this. I was assigned with a fleet and Aneue was appointed as a logistics officer. Our jobs don¡¯t really allow us to meet up after all.¡± Sitting across Frea, Schleer smiles bitterly at her sister. The two are currently having a drinking party with several bottles of alcohol and side dishes placed on the table between them. ¡°I¡¯d rather die than join the frontline after all. It¡¯s scary there with all the explosions right.¡± Frea answered as she drank the alcohol while looking at the chandelier hanging from the ceiling a little distance away. Her expression looked complicated. Perhaps she¡¯s thinking about how she spends her days in relative peace while her own little sister has to fight on the frontline. ¡°What are you saying. The fact that we can fight to the fullest on the frontline was all thanks to your work, you know?¡± ¡°Hahaha, I¡¯m happy to hear that. People usually use my job to take a jab at me after all.¡± The fact that Frea¡¯s right to succeed the throne is lower than that of Schleer is also related to this. Vuld aristocratic society placed importance on people who risk their lives to fight on the battlefield. Conversely, such a system also creates contempt for those who do not wish to fight. ¡°Well, it¡¯s not like I want the throne for myself so I couldn¡¯t care less about that though.¡± ¡°I¡¯m the same. I do not have what it takes to be an empress. Difficult things like politics and ¡®the big picture¡¯ are more suitable for Eria-aneue after all.¡± Recalling the face of her able elder sister who is considered to be the next in line to the throne, Schleer sips on her alcohol. When she emptied her glass, Frea immediately poured her a refill. ¡°Ah, thank you.¡± Schleer thanks Frea with a grin. ¡°Still, I never thought that Eria-aneue would be defeated in striker combat. She¡¯s the best pilot among us sisters after all.¡± ¡°Her opponent was the [Undefeated] Diaroze. She probably had no edge over her opponent this time. Even with her injuries, I think that it was fortunate that she managed to escape with her life.¡± In truth, Schleer was surprised when she heard about Diaroze from Valentina. However, she didn¡¯t express it in front of Kisei. ¡°But victory will be ours the next time. I will make her pay for all she¡¯s done.¡± Schleer¡¯s grip on her glass grew stronger. Not just hurting her beloved sister, Schleer finds it unforgivable for Diaroze to also target the man she likes. ¡°That¡¯s the spirit! Do your best!¡± Cheering her sister in a good mood, Frea picks up the pickled fish and brings it to her mouth. The sourness from the taste of pickled cucumber filled her mouth. ¡°Yes, I¡¯ve got to work harder.¡± While nodding to her sister, Schleer stood up. Then, just like that, she heads to the shelf in the corner of her room. Placed on top of the shelf is an old rice cooker. And naturally, inside was the freshly cooked rice. ¡°Ah, do you want some, Aneue?¡± ¡°N, No, I will pass.¡± Frea turned the offer down while she was slightly taken aback. Schleer puzzledly cocked her head and filled the rice inside a bowl. Naturally, it¡¯s a large serving of rice. Schleer then returned to her seat with a cheerful expression with the steaming bowl in hand. ¡°I¡¯ve been thinking about this for a while now but why do you like having rice as your side dish when you are drinking?¡± Said Frea as she stared at the bowl of rice. ¡°Also, we are drinking Sake today you know? This stuff is brewed from rice right. It¡¯s like you are drinking and eating rice at the same time.¡± ¡°Don¡¯t mind me. They are delicious after all.¡± ¡°Whatever you say¡­¡­.¡± Giving up, Frea sighed. ¡°Well, I don¡¯t mind but you should make sure not to do this weird stuff in front of Kisei-kun okay.¡± ¡°W, Weird stuff.¡± Schleer stopped her chopsticks. ¡°It¡¯s, it¡¯s okay. Kisei-san can¡¯t drink alcohol after all.¡± ¡°Really? That¡¯s cute.¡± ¡°Yes, very.¡± Seeing a fluffy smile on her sister¡¯s face, a smile also floated up on Frea¡¯s face. ¡°Well, but¡­¡­I never thought that Aneue would take a liking to Kisei-san this much, you know. Today was your first time meeting him right.¡± ¡°Well, yeah.¡± Frea casually nodded. ¡°With everything said and done, I¡¯m still a woman after all. If I see a charming young man in front of me, I¡¯d naturally want to make him my own right. Also¡­¡­¡± ¡°Also?¡± ¡°I knew from the first glance that Schleer-chan really likes Kisei-kun. I¡¯m not talking about his appearance here, you see. It¡¯s like you like his everything! Am I wrong?¡± ¡°Uuh¡­¡­y, yes. As expected of Aneue, nothing escapes you.¡± Even though she¡¯s clearly embarrassed about this, Schleer did not deny it. ¡°He¡¯s both passionate and straightforward whenever he talks to me. I really want him as my life companion. That¡¯s my honest feeling.¡± ¡°Hm, Hmm, is that right.¡± With Schleer being so direct about her feelings, this time, it¡¯s Frea¡¯s turn to get shy. The two who shared the same face smiled at each other with their cheeks dyed red. That redness was not due to the alcohol. ¡°Well¡­..I and Schleer-chan have known each other for so long after all.¡± ¡°That¡¯s, well, we were together since we were inside our mother¡¯s womb after all.¡± ¡°Right. Since he¡¯s the person that Schleer-chan truly loves then there¡¯s no way that I won¡¯t like him right. Now that I know how you feel, you have my full cooperation to capture him.¡± ¡°I see¡­¡­.¡± After nodding to her sister, Schleer brings the rice to her mouth. After tasting it for a while, she finally swallowed it. ¡°Actually, there are quite a lot of rivals who¡¯re competing over Kisei-san¡­¡­.also, as Aneue knows, I¡¯m the foolhardy type. There are surely a lot of things I lack.¡± ¡°And you need me to make up for that right? Leave it to me.¡± Frea confidently answered. ¡°Now then, let¡¯s come up with a plan to capture Kisei-kun.¡± The drinking party between sisters only gets more and more exciting from this point. CH 58 The Prince There are many types of formal wear for Vuld women. You have dresses imported or recreated from Earth, traditional military uniforms, and many others. On the contrary, when it comes to men, earth-style formal wear is unpopular with Vuld because they are not considered cute. Then what kind of formal wear is available for Vuld men? The answer is simply as there¡¯s one right in front of Kisei now. ¡°Nope.¡± Kisei muttered while staring at something that can only be expressed as a dress adorned by numerous slits. Even though the dress itself is made of plenty of cloth, the amount of skin shown such as the upper part of his arms and legs made it look very embarrassing to wear. Since he¡¯s not an exhibitionist, Kisei doesn¡¯t dare to wear such a thing. ¡°Kuh¡­¡­.how unfortunate.¡± Schleered moaned with an expression that says that she¡¯s already expected his reaction. This ¡®dress¡¯ she prepared was the one that she secretly ordered for Kisei. That¡¯s why she couldn¡¯t help but be disappointed at his reaction even though she had expected it. ¡°I can just go like this right. Leaving aside whether this thing suits me or not, I¡¯m definitely not going to wear that.¡± Kisei is currently wearing a Calencian military uniform for ceremonial uses which was slightly modified from the one for women. The uniform was designed with blue fabric at its base and golden aiguillette. A slightly gorgeous and sophisticated design. ¡°I, I mean, if I say that the uniform doesn¡¯t suit you then I¡¯d turn every woman here into my enemy you know.¡± Said Schleer as she turned away with loosened cheeks. ¡°Still, a crossdress beauty huh¡­¡­.I never knew that this is an option¡­¡­.Rather, I think Kisei-san would get a full score no matter what you wear though¡­¡­.¡± ¡°Saying that it¡¯s crossdressing is embarrassing enough alright!¡± Without any joy from hearing such a compliment, Kisei shouted so and let out a deep sigh. ¡°Well, I¡¯m done getting dressed so let¡¯s go. Your brother is waiting right?¡± ¡°Y, Yes. That¡¯s true. This way please.¡± Taking Kisei¡¯s hand, Schleer led the way out of the small private room which they used as a changing room. Their destination is the guest room. The two are now in the central government building of the capital about half an hour drive from the port where the [Radiant] was anchored at. Their purpose here today is to meet Prince Ao, Schleer¡¯s younger brother, who¡¯s planning to visit the [Radiant] today. ¡°We¡¯re here.¡± After making their way through the government building which looks a lot like the government office on earth for a while, what appeared in front of Kisei was a heavy wooden door. When Schleer knocked on it, a reply saying [Please come in.] returned from the inside. ¡°Ahh, Nee-san!¡± The one who greeted them was a beautiful little boy with white hair. He¡¯s wearing a dress with a similar design to what Kisei refused to wear earlier. Once he spotted Schleer, he immediately ran up to her. ¡°How are you doing? Are you injured? Have you been eating properly?¡± Seeing the boy who asked her multiple questions in succession, Schleer smiled bitterly at him. This kind of reaction is as expected so she did not get taken aback by him. After all, he has been worried about her since she departed to battle. ¡°I¡¯m fine, Ao. Your sister is doing well.¡± Schleer hugs the trembling Ao and gently strokes his head. By doing so, he seems to have finally calmed down and nervously let her go. ¡°I¡¯m, I¡¯m sorry, Nee-san. It¡¯s been a while.¡± ¡°It¡¯s okay. But I¡¯m here with someone today, you should offer your greeting first right.¡± ¡°Ah¡­¡­-¡± It seems that he just noticed the presence of Kisei when their eyes finally intersected. Ao is even shorter than the petite Kisei so it¡¯s the first time in a long while since he has to look down to talk to someone. ¡°Hello, It¡¯s nice to meet you. I¡¯m Hokuto Kisei, a mercenary.¡± When Kisei introduced himself with a smile, Ao immediately blushed and repeatedly nodded. It wouldn¡¯t be weird if steam rose from his head now. ¡°Awawa¡­..I, I¡¯m A, Ao Henrietta¡­..!¡± After he somehow managed to return a greeting with a bow, Ao confusedly turned to Schleer.¡± ¡°N, Nee-san! Didn¡¯t you say that a man is coming today¡­¡­.?! I didn¡¯t know that you¡¯d bring such a beautiful woman¡­..!¡± ¡°Eh, No, he¡¯s wearing women¡¯s clothes but this person is a man you know.¡± ¡°EHHH!?¡± Ao looks at Kisei¡¯s face with a serious expression but the vermillion shade on his face only darkens as he shyly looks away. ¡°Y, You¡¯re lying. This person is obviously a woman right.¡± ¡°You think so? He looks completely like a man to me though¡­¡­.¡± The sibling¡¯s expression turned to a puzzled one while Kisei who¡¯s in the middle of all this has a fed-up expression on his face. ¡°It¡¯s strange right, men always mistake me for a woman but women always see me as a man. Still, I¡¯m definitely a man alright.¡± ¡°No way¡­¡­¡± For some reason, Ao looks away with a despaired expression on his face. However, he immediately shook his head and muttered [No, gender is nothing¡­¡­.]. He then smiles and turns to face Kisei again. ¡°Uh, Umm¡­..I¡¯m truly sorry. Forgive my rudeness.¡± ¡°I¡¯m used to it already. Please don¡¯t mind it.¡± Kisei answers with a bitter smile. In truth, he¡¯s so used to something like this so he doesn¡¯t bother getting angry about it anymore. ¡°Thank you very much¡­¡­.you will be my escort for today, correct? I will be in your care.¡± Seeing Ao regain his composure and extend his hand toward him, Kisei gives him a deep bow and grabs his hand. ¡°Of course, please leave it to me.¡± CH 59 Nii-san A heroic song played by a military band echoes on the upper deck of the [Radiant]. While enjoying the sensation of sea breeze on his face, Kisei glanced at Prince Ao who¡¯s standing right next to him. ¡°¡­¡­¡­..¡± The prince was clearly nervous. That¡¯s probably a given since there are hundreds of soldiers currently standing in rows after rows in front of them. Moreover, their eyes are completely focused on Kisei and Ao. After thinking for a moment, Kisei decided to grab Ao¡¯s soft hand. Ao¡¯s body quivered in surprise but soon he managed to relax and grip his hand back. ¡°Hey, isn¡¯t that..¡± ¡°It¡¯s the roses. Definitely. Hey, do you think I can snap a picture without getting noticed?¡± Some soldiers began to make noises but the two were not concerned about them. Then, about 20 minutes later, the welcome ceremony for the prince was over. With that said, the real deal has just started for Ao. His mission today was to meet with the soldiers and scatter his charm. Since his popularity among the Calencian people is very strong, crew members and pilots from other ships were rushing over to the [Radiant] to catch a glimpse of him. ¡°Ao-sama!¡± ¡°Please look this way! Ao-sama!¡± The soldiers are excitedly cheering his name and Ao innocently replies to them. Each time he does that, the crowd keeps getting denser and denser. ¡°Alright, if you want to shake His Highness¡¯s hand then please queue up here.¡± ¡°Don¡¯t push, the prince won¡¯t go anywhere.¡± The MPs are managing the crowd for Kisei and Ao. When they reached Ao, he smiles and shakes hands with each of them. It looks exactly like a handshake event for idols. ¡°I can live in peace thanks to your effort to protect the empire. Thank you for all your hard work.¡± ¡°Yes, of course, thank you, Your Highness.¡± Some soldiers even cry when they are spoken to. Kisei standing behind Ao was taken by surprise. For Kisei, who rarely sees such a comfort visit, this kind of thing is completely unknown to him. ¡°U, Uhm.¡± Meanwhile, Ao suddenly called out to Kisei. Although he was free he doesn¡¯t know how to act as he has no idea what to do in a situation like this. Still, he hurriedly replied in a small voice. ¡°What¡¯s wrong?¡± ¡°Umm¡­¡­Kisei-san, won¡¯t you shake hands with them too?¡± ¡°Eh.¡± Why would he ask that? Confused, Kisei looked back at Ao but he now sees the expectant gazes from the soldiers behind him. When being looked at with such expectant eyes, he can¡¯t possibly refuse. ¡°Please.¡± ¡°¡­..I understand.¡± Reluctantly, Kisei agreed. As a result, he ends up shaking hands with the excited crowd of soldiers for over an hour. ¡°Fuuu¡­¡­.¡± Some time has passed. The two were finally freed from the event and are currently taking a break at a coffee shop located on the outskirts of the harbor. It appears that the place is completely reserved for them as there are only Kisei, Ao, and the MPs along with some Imperial Guards who are acting as their escort there. ¡°Your Highness, are you always doing something like this?¡± Kisei asks while rubbing his shoulder. He¡¯s even more tired than when he fought on the battlefield since he¡¯s not used to doing this. Being stared at by an excited crowd is naturally a daunting task so it¡¯s no wonder that he¡¯s tired. ¡°Yes¡­¡­.I think so.¡± Ao gives him a reserved smile and continues. ¡°That¡¯s what a prince¡¯s work is all about after all.¡± ¡°Hiee.¡± Thinking that he wouldn¡¯t last a week doing this, Kisei¡¯s expression turned bitter. ¡°Kisei-san too. You¡¯re a man but you are fighting on the battlefield right¡­¡­.you¡¯re amazing. I¡¯d get scared just by thinking about the battlefield¡­¡­.always.¡± ¡°It¡¯s okay, being like that. That being said, if every Vuld is so warlike then it would be very chaotic, you know.¡± ¡°Is that so?¡­¡­¡­..No, that might be true.¡± After saying that with a smile, Ao took a sip from his cup of steaming cocoa. ¡°¡­..by the way.¡± ¡°Yes?¡± ¡°Kisei-san, you are on good terms with Nee-san right?¡± ¡°Eh? Haa, well¡­¡­.I did invite her to eat out once in the past.¡±¡¯ However, he can¡¯t really say anything about the end result. He made her cry and they were surprise attacked by the Pervert Stalker from Nored, it just felt like he did something bad to her instead. Fortunately, Schleer didn¡¯t seem to mind it that much but Kisei still wants to do something to make up for her. ¡°Then, it¡¯s like you are my big brother isn¡¯t it.¡± ¡°Big, brother?¡± ¡°Yes, a big brother. So, can I call you Nii-san? If that¡¯s alright with you that is¡­¡­?¡± ¡°Why is it like that though¡­¡­¡± Kisei was puzzled. However, he can¡¯t say anything when Ao is staring innocently at him with his aquamarine eyes. ¡°A big brother huh¡­¡­.¡± Still, it doesn¡¯t feel bad to be called like that. What came to his mind was the face of the man who married his big sister and became his brother-in-law. That man has been taking good care of both his sister and himself. It¡¯s like he¡¯s his real older brother even without being connected by blood. ¡°Well, if you are happy with me then this Hokuto Kisei will gladly become your big brother.¡± When he said that in a joking tone, Ao almost did a spit take on his cocoa. ¡°You are funny, Kisei-san.¡± ¡°Hahaha¡­¡­.¡± Shrugging his shoulders, Kisei sips on his coffee. Naturally, to satisfy his sweet tooth, he already added plenty of sugar and milk. ¡°If you are going to become my older brother then can you please stop using honorifics with me? We have gotten so close after all.¡± Said Ao with a grin on his face. ¡°Didn¡¯t Her Highness Schleer use honorifics with everyone though?¡± ¡°Nee-san is always like that. She has that kind of personality after all.¡± ¡°That¡¯s true.¡± Thinking about it now, unless blood got to her head, Schleer would always use honorifics whenever she¡¯s talking with someone. That part about her is certainly admirable but he can not possibly imitate her. ¡°Got it, I¡¯ll do that.¡± Schleer also told him the same thing so it should be fine to do the same for Ao too. Thinking so, Kisei nodded. ¡°But if it¡¯s going to be like that then you should stop being polite around me too. I mean, you act casually around your sister too right?¡± ¡°Fufu.¡± As though he expected that, Ao laughed. ¡°Got it, Nii-san.¡± CH 60 The Troubled Boys Talk ¡°Thank you for the wait, sir.¡± The coffee shop owner said with a silver tray in her hand. She then placed the cake the two ordered in front of them. Kisei¡¯s was a shortcake with a strawberry on top while Ao is having a gateau au chocolat. ¡°It¡¯s been a while since I last have a fresh strawberry.¡± Kisei stabbed his cake with a fork and brought it to his mouth. As he takes a bite of the shortcake, he shut his eyes and exhaled. ¡°Haa, thank you for this.¡± ¡°You like it? The strawberry I mean.¡± ¡°Well, yeah. When I was little, it was something I rarely got to eat after all. The nostalgia might play a big part here though.¡± While answering so in an excited voice, Kisei¡¯s gaze saddened at the slowly disappearing shortcake. ¡°Is that so¡­¡­then do you want me to pack some in a box and send it to you later?¡± ¡°No, no, it would be a waste of money right.¡± ¡°You sound like Nee-san you know.¡± ¡°I¡¯m Nii-san after all.¡± Kisei replied with a bitter smile. Besides, if he received a box full of strawberries then he surely won¡¯t be able to eat them all alone. ¡°This is enough for me. It¡¯s nice because I can rarely enjoy it. I¡¯d get tired of it if I can eat it every day after all.¡± ¡°Is that the case?¡± ¡°The only thing people don¡¯t get tired of eating every day is only rice and bread you know.¡± ¡°If it¡¯s Schleer-neesan then she would be very happy if she can have rice every day though.¡± ¡°That sure sounds like her.¡± Saying so, Kisei smiled. Schleer¡¯s rice addiction is pretty unusual. Whenever he has a meal with her, he would always find a bowl filled with rice in her hand. ¡°But¡­..on the battlefield, you can¡¯t even pick what you eat right?¡± Suddenly, Ao asked that with a cloudy expression. ¡°Well, that¡¯s usually the case. I¡¯ve spent about a month with only beef bowls and energy bar alone after all.¡± ¡°B, Beef Bowl?¡± ¡°It¡¯s one of the standard combat rations you know. You have pre-packed rice in one layer and the beef in another¡­¡­¡­you just heat it in a microwave and voila.¡± ¡°Doesn¡¯t it taste bad?¡± To Ao who¡¯s strangely curious about this, Kisei shrugged. He then cut his shortcake and used his fork to bring it to his mouth before answering. ¡°It¡¯s not bad you know. Still, it¡¯s not something that you¡¯d want to eat every day though.¡± ¡°Yeah, that sounds terrible¡­..I hope this war will end soon.¡± Ao turned to look outside the window while muttering so in a sad voice. This coffee shop has a panoramic view of the harbor but all you can see from here are only warships. ¡°Usually, there are a lot of pleasure boats and fishing boats here, you know. Because of the war, they were all relocated to make room for our warships.¡± Returning his gaze to the Gateau au Chocolat, Ao traced it with his fork and a number of lines were drawn on the chocolate dough. ¡°That¡¯s not all. This city is filled with refugees. ¡­¡­.Everyone is having it hard. I want this war to end soon but the most thing I can do is to hold an event like today.¡± Ao sighed and grumbled. ¡°I can¡¯t procure ammunition or supplies. I can¡¯t even go out and fight on the battlefield. The only thing I can do is cower in fear every time my family goes out to fight.¡± ¡°Between when you are worried about others and when you worry about yourself, the former is always harsher.¡± ¡°When you can¡¯t do anything to help the people you are worried about at all, hearing something like this isn¡¯t even comforting you know.¡± Hearing Ao¡¯s reply, Kisei sighed. ¡°Well, that¡¯s fine. This war will be over soon. When that happens, you won¡¯t have any reason to worry anymore right.¡± After placing his fork on the plate, Kisei¡¯s gaze turned sharp as he looked at Ao. ¡°¡­¡­It will?¡± ¡°That¡¯s the reason I¡¯m here after all.¡± Kisei confidently stated so. ¡°In the past, someone used to tell me [It¡¯s impossible for one guy to turn the tide of the war.]¡± ¡°¡­¡­and?¡± ¡°I caught the enemy supreme general and we immediately won. That was real refreshing for me.¡± ¡°Eh¡­¡­you did that!?¡± Even for Ao who never saw a battlefield before, Kisei¡¯s story still sounds too unrealistic. No matter how Vuld culture dictates that a general should fight on a frontline themself, it¡¯s normal to anticipate that said general would have a strong group of escorts around them. In the first place, it¡¯s almost impossible for a single soldier to create a situation where he can challenge the enemy general into single combat alone. ¡°I have no reason to lie to you right. If you don¡¯t believe me then you can ask Her Highness Schleer later. That event was officially recorded so she should know about it too.¡± Before hiring Kisei, Schleer should have thoroughly looked into him already. Moreover, there are many such occurrences in Kisei¡¯s mercenary career. It¡¯s not like he roams the battlefield with the [Wicked Star] as his second name just for show. ¡°In the end, all I want to say is this. I¡¯m crazy strong and I do take pride in being the strongest.¡± With a grin, Kisei chewed on the last bite of his shortcake. ¡°No matter what kind of army it is, if you hit it with overwhelming violence then you can easily force them to withdraw! Just you wait, I will definitely end this war. Don¡¯t worry.¡± To such a ridiculous claim, Ao cheerfully smiled. ¡°It seems that I¡¯ve made a ridiculous person my Nii-san haven¡¯t I? But, I feel better now. Thank you.¡± CH 61 Women are Scary ¡°But¡­..there¡¯s one thing, I¡¯m concerned about.¡± ¡°Concerned?¡± Hearing Ao saying that while dividing his Gateau Au Chocolat into small pieces, Kisei tilted his head. ¡°In the army, there are only women right.¡± ¡°Well, yeah.¡± The difference in physical strength between men and women for Vuld is very apparent. Kisei is also physically weak for a Terran but he is probably not all that different from Ao in terms of physical strength. On top of that, the women-to-men ratio is extremely biased toward the former. It is natural that there are no male soldiers in the army. ¡°Is it not scary?¡± ¡°Ahh, I see.¡± Kisei crossed his arms and groaned. ¡°Actually, it¡¯s not something I should say but¡­¡­.¡± Ao looks around and whispers to Kisei in a small voice. There are many soldiers around them who are acting as their guards. Even if they don¡¯t want to pry, they would overhear their conversation since they are the only ones in the cafe. Knowing that, Ao blushed and continued to whisper to Kisei. ¡°Even today, I¡¯m pretty scared, you know. Being stared at and surrounded by women like earlier¡­¡­..¡± ¡°Well, I can understand where you are coming from.¡± Kisei nodded as the corners of his mouth turned downward. He still remembers how he was assaulted by a group of thugs when he first arrived in Calencia. Even back then, he tried with all his might to escape their grasp but he couldn¡¯t resist and was caught in the blink of an eye. He still wonders what would have happened if Schleer wasn¡¯t there for him. ¡°Right, our physique and strength are just too different from them. If a girl seriously tries to hold me down I¡¯m sure that I can¡¯t do anything to resist. Being so helpless and having no choice but to count on others¡¯ goodwill is just too horrible.¡± While tapping on the antique wooden table with his finger, Kisei said his mind. Some of the guards who overheard that have a complicated and apologetic expression on their faces. Seeing that, Kisei lightly smiled and waved at them. ¡°But you see, for some reason, I¡¯m still here. I¡¯ve experienced being in such danger many times but there was always someone who came to help me.¡± ¡®Well, it is indeed a pathetic story to share though.¡¯ Kisei followed with that and smiled at Ao. ¡°What I want to say is that people won¡¯t just abandon you so easily. That¡¯s why it¡¯d be better if you stop doubting people¡¯s intentions and get scared for nothing.¡± ¡°If I do that¡­¡­.will I be able to stop being scared?¡± ¡°Well, I guess so. Still, in your case, that kind of stance may worry the people around you instead. There¡¯s both the good and the bad I guess.¡± The guards around them nodded in sync at his words. If Schleer or Saki are around, they might say [You should be more careful] instead. Thinking so, Kisei felt a little sorry for them. ¡°In the first place, I¡¯m a Terran and you are a Vuld. The difference between our races is so big. Our culture is different, our ecology is different. Since you are the one who grew up in Vuld¡¯s world, rather than me, the one who has the correct reaction to such a thing should be Ao right?¡± ¡°Come to think of it, I think that I¡¯ve read something about Terran in a book before. They say that Terran women are weaker than men right.¡± ¡°Yeah, mostly.¡± Kisei answered in a dissatisfied voice. Unfortunately, Kisei here is one of the exceptions to that common sense. ¡°A Terran¡¯s muscle density is very inferior to Vuld. That¡¯s why a strong Terran inevitably always looks like this.¡± Saying so, Kisei operated his mobile terminal and showed a photo to Ao. Seeing that, Ao¡¯s mouth opened in surprise. ¡°I know about this. This is the thing called Gorilla right.¡± ¡°That¡¯s rude, this is my brother-in-law you know.¡± The photo displayed on the terminal was of a young muscular man in a white tank top. He has short black hair and white teeth. He¡¯s a good young man who¡¯s both passionate and earnest. If you show his image to another Teran then 8-9 out of 10 would say that he¡¯s a man. Kisei naturally is within the 8-9 out of 10 but in reality, his physique is strangely unacceptable to Vuld people. ¡°I¡¯m, I¡¯m sorry. But I see, a Terran man looks like this huh¡­¡­honestly, I thought that they¡¯d all look like Nii-san.¡± ¡°It¡¯s easier for a Vuld to imagine men being short and delicate after all. Ao is both smaller and thinner than Kisei but in truth, Ao¡¯s figure is average among Vuld men. By Vuld standards, it can be said that Kisei is rather tall since he¡¯s over 160 cm tall. ¡°Women don¡¯t look all that different from us too. Don¡¯t you think it¡¯s mysterious how we can be so different? Well, Vuld women¡¯s physical strength is definitely way up there though.¡± ¡°That¡¯s true.¡± Ao agrees while sipping his cocoa. After all, there are only Vulds around him. Perhaps it just comes down to the fact that he never has any interracial exchanges before. There are other humanoid races other than Terran and Vuld but Vuld¡¯s fertility is by far the strongest so Vuld is arguably the most numerous race in the known space. ¡°It¡¯s fun, talking like this. There are so many people in the world but I only know a small part of them. When it becomes peaceful again, it would be nice if I can study abroad.¡± ¡°That doesn¡¯t sound bad.¡± While nodding to Ao, Kisei let out a small sigh. ¡°I guess I will have to do my best to make that a reality as soon as possible huh.¡± CH 62 The Melancholy of Diaroze A week after Ao¡¯s visit, the Calencian fleet departed from the capital. There¡¯s still no development on the frontline but with Calencia being on the weaker side, they would be at a disadvantage if this situation is prolonged for too long. That¡¯s why the consensus of the staff officers was to end this war as soon as possible. ¡°Now then, it seems that the Calencian dogs finally decided to make their move huh.¡± While checking the information on her mobile terminal, Diaroze said so with an expression that is full of confidence. ¡°The boring days of crushing their puny guerrillas is finally behind us. Kukuku¡­¡­.don¡¯t you think this is going to be fun, my dear little sister.¡± ¡°But, can we win?¡± In contrast to Diaroze¡¯s joyful tone of voice, Valentina¡¯s response was blunt and extremely dry. Diaroze¡¯s animated gesture immediately came to a halt and her Tiger¡¯s eye colored (TLN: golden-reddish brown) intersect with Valentina¡¯s. ¡°Although we still possess the superior force, the difference is not as overwhelming as our previous battle. Moreover, even with such a big difference, we¡¯ve suffered defeat once already¡­¡­..¡± ¡°Defeat?¡± Hearing those words, Diaroze¡¯s heart races with a sweet numbness assaulting her brain. ¡°Aneue?¡± ¡°It, It¡¯s nothing. Continue.¡± ¡°Yes.¡± While looking at Diaroze with suspicion, Valentina did not press any further. After all, she has no way to predict her sister. At best, the reasons she could think of for her sister to act that way is that her sister is not feeling well or that she¡¯s thinking about something else entirely. ¡°In any case, our force is not as strong as it was in the previous operation. On top of the damage our main fleet suffered in the Leboir system, we also suffered some damage from the enemy guerrilla activity in the territories we are currently occupying as well.¡± ¡°Certainly, with their guerrilla tactic, it would be a bad move for us to consolidate our detached forces huh.¡± The Nored side has destroyed almost all the major military bases and cities of the former Calencian territories via Purge Bombing. However, the surviving remnants of the Calencian army along with the civilians have armed themselves and relentlessly resist the occupation. If Diaroze pulls back the troops she stationed in those areas out without any kind of strategy to deal with the resistance, the occupied star systems they managed to take over will be taken back from the inside. This is something that she must avoid at all costs. ¡°What about the reinforcements I requested from our homeland? They should be here soon, no?¡± In the first place, the only force the Calencian managed to damage was simply one of the Nored¡¯s Expeditionary Fleets. With it being a superpower, the Nored Empire still has a large number of fighting forces back in their homeland. ¡°That¡¯s¡­¡­it appears that the dispatch of the unit Your Highness requested was not approved. They did not actually send that many units over to us as well.¡± ¡°¡­¡­.Who did they send? Show me.¡± Narrowing her eyes, Diaroze asked her staff. With the Nored Empire having other enemy nations to fight, such requests for reinforcements always involve negotiating with aristocrats and others in the Imperial Family. Diaroze never expected her request to completely go through but the truth still stands that the next battle will be tough for them with the number of troops currently available to them. ¡°Seven Squadron of Strikers, 700 units in total. They also included Striker Carriers for them to operate from, ma¡¯am.¡± ¡°A Striker Carrier? Is that not the commoner unit¡­¡­..¡± A Striker Carrier functions like an Aircraft Carrier. It carries a large number of strikers with an extra-wide launch deck for the strikers to deploy from. However, the pilots for these strikers are usually from the commoner class. Since a talented ace would be quickly given a knighthood and assigned to a medium-sized or larger battlecruiser or battleship, it can be said that being stationed on a Striker Carrier is the starting point of a military pilot career. Naturally, how skilled or how high the morale level of such pilots is should be easy to imagine. ¡°¡­..what else?¡± ¡°A Scouting Fleet and several Assault Fleets. This is the list, ma¡¯am.¡± ¡°Hou, they at least sent someone decent to us huh.¡± Diaroze smiled as she checked the names of the ships on the list displayed on the main monitor of the conference room. In a battle where the battle theater is extremely wide, you would always wish for more reconnaissance units no matter how many you already have. Moreover, the Assault Fleets which carry a large number of anti-ship missiles will come into handy when it comes to a large-scale battle between fleets. ¡°So, what about the capital ships? That¡¯s what took the most damage in the previous battle. I need 4 more battleships¡­..no, I want at least 2 more.¡± ¡°None, ma¡¯am.¡± ¡°Ha?¡± ¡°The capital did not dispatch any¡­¡­¡­¡± ¡°I see. That¡¯s how it is huh. They¡¯re probably sending some large-type armored ships instead right. Well, I guess there¡¯s nothing to be done about it.¡± ¡°No, they did not send any of the large-type battlecruisers either, ma¡¯am. We did not receive any replacement for the battleships we lost.¡± A bead of cold sweat appeared on Diaroze¡¯s face. In fear of Diaroze¡¯s reprimand, the staff shrank back. However, Diaroze was silent. ¡°In, Instead, they have sent us a strategic-class weapon. The power it provided should be enough to compensate for an entire corp of battleships, ma¡¯am.¡± ¡°¡­¡­Hou, interesting. What did they send?¡± ¡°The Mobile Fort [Valizer], ma¡¯am.¡± Saying so, the staff put the image of a gigantic weapon on the main monitor. The weapon is neither a ship nor a striker. Its design made it look like a number of limbs grew out from an enormous cannon. The CG image of a battleship is being displayed for comparison but the scale of this Mobile Fort is much larger. Truly a gigantic weapon. ¡°¡­¡­.that¡¯s an interesting weapon to have but I still feel that it¡¯s not enough.¡± Can a mercenary with such a strange power really be stopped by a weapon like this? Diaroze frowned and groaned. ¡°B, But there¡¯s good news, ma¡¯am! The Four, the Four Strongest of our Empire were dispatched to us!¡± ¡°Hou.¡± ¡°What¡­¡­?¡± Diaroze and Valentina expressed their surprise at the same time. ¡°I see, I requested for them thinking that they would refuse but¡­¡­..that¡¯s why the forces they sent felt so inadequate huh! If those guys were dispatched as well then it¡¯s a different story.¡± Saying so, confidence can be seen from the eyes of the grinning Diaroze. CH 63 The Mobile Fort Menace In an unpopulated star system, a Calencian Scouting Fleet is performing a reconnaissance mission. The Scouting Fleet itself is a small one consisting of only one medium-sized reconnaissance cruiser and two destroyers escorting it. ¡°I was scared when they made us scout this system since it is in Nored¡¯s control but it¡¯s unexpectedly peaceful here don¡¯t you think.¡± A young blonde aristocrat said in a relaxed tone at the captain seat of the recon cruiser. She is currently sitting cross-legged in a manner that doesn¡¯t belong to a soldier fighting on a battlefield. ¡°Did the recon probe pick up anything? ¡°Nothing so far. There¡¯s no sign of the enemy anywhere, ma¡¯am.¡± The operator replied in an unenthusiastic voice. It¡¯s been a week since they left the capital. At first, she was very tense when she received this mission but contrary to her expectations, their fleet managed to infiltrate very deeply into the Nored¡¯s area of influence with no obstruction whatsoever. With that being the case, their guard is relatively relaxed now. ¡°What a shame. I heard that we¡¯ve already taken back 3-4 habitable planets with pretty much no resistance from the enemy right? At this rate, the planetary defense forces will take all the credit you know.¡± ¡°Hahaha¡­..when we kicked their ass at Leboir, they must have been scared witless huh.¡± ¡°It¡¯s all thanks to the [Wicked Star] right. He did so much that it made me want to kiss him now.¡± ¡°You just want to kiss him right, Captain?¡± ¡°You can tell?¡± ¡°Well, I¡¯m the same after all.¡± ¡°Hahahahaha.¡± As such laid-back conversation continued, an anomaly appeared on the surface of an asteroid floating near the fleet. In the place where nothing is supposed to exist, the space suddenly fluctuates, revealing a gigantic weapon that looked like a ridiculously large cannon with limbs growing out of it. The identity of the anomaly is the Nored¡¯s Gigantic Weapon¡­¡­the Mobile Fort [Valizer]. There are two people inside its cockpit. Despite its size which is even bigger than a battleship, only two people are needed to operate it. ¡°Optical Camouflage lifted. Now then, let¡¯s make some flashy fireworks as a declaration of war.¡± ¡°Roger that.¡± The gunner nodded and aimed the cannon at the Calencian Scouting Fleet then pulled the trigger. The giant cannon which is also the main body of the Mobile Fort emits a thick crimson beam that matches the size of the muzzle from which it was fired from. The super thick beam which silently cut through the vacuum of space instantly evaporated the destroyers which were escorting the recon cruiser. ¡°Tsk, it seems the cannon wasn¡¯t tested enough huh. Those idiots in the R&D sent us something defective again.¡± ¡°Hit them with the second shot. Reload.¡± The empty particle cartridge was ejected from the bottom part of the [Valizer] and rolls on the asteroid¡¯s rocky surface. On the other hand, the bridge of the recon cruiser which witnessed the earlier attack was sent into chaos. ¡°WHAT HAPPENED!¡± ¡°Mass reaction detected! An unidentified large-scale weapon appeared on the surface of Wraith-B1, ma¡¯am!¡± On the main monitor of the bridge, the image of the [Valizer] pointing its muzzle toward them is being displayed. Seeing that, the captain¡¯s complexion immediately turned pale. ¡°It¡¯s a Mobile Fort! Damn Nored, they even brought in such a thing!¡± While gritting her teeth, the captain realized that she can¡¯t show such a pathetic figure in front of her subordinates and quickly gave her instructions. ¡°Send the information to the main fleet! Make it as detailed as possible! Prepare to return fire! Ready all gunports!¡± At the captain¡¯s command, the 4 eight-muzzles 25Mw compound cannons equipped on the cruiser take aim at the [Valizer]. ¡°Cannons fully charged, all guns are ready to fire, ma¡¯am.¡± ¡°First volley, Fire!¡± Green beams were emitted from the cruiser, all accurately flooding toward the [Valizer]. However, just before reaching the [Valizer] the beams diffused, not leaving even a burn on its armor. As a result, the gigantic weapon remained unscathed. ¡°It¡¯s a Deflect Shield! The attack was ineffective, ma¡¯am!¡± ¡°Ugh, this is bad! Evasive maneuver¡­¡­..¡± That was the end of the cruiser¡¯s futile resistance. The ultra-high power beam was fired at the cruiser again. The cruiser was reduced to plasma and disappeared. Not even a wreckage was left behind. ¡°Enemy craft destruction confirmed. The [Valizer] suffered no damage. It¡¯s a perfect game, Major General.¡± ¡°That was just a lightly armed recon fleet. It would be strange instead if it was not an easy win for us.¡± Releasing the control stick, the captain indifferently replied. ¡°Do you know the story of how this thing was made? I heard that they poured enough resources to build 4 battleships to build this you know.¡± ¡°In other words, if we can¡¯t show the results that are comparable to 4 battleships, this thing won¡¯t be able to justify its construction cost right. That¡¯s some responsibility they¡¯ve placed on us, ma¡¯am.¡± The gunner shrugs. The captain also did the same and smiled while agreeing to her subordinate¡¯s statement. ¡°Alright, let¡¯s call it in. Let¡¯s see what our commander says about our performance.¡± The captain operates the communication terminal with a smile on her face. Since the Empire is in control of the communication network in this area, they do not have to worry about being eavesdropped on when they are using FTL voice communication. ¡°What? Contacting me like this, have you already sunk a battleship or something?¡± The other end of the communication was no ordinary operator but Diaroze herself. With their strategic value, all weapons that were classified into Mobile Fort class are equipped with a direct line to the supreme commander. ¡°No, it¡¯s simply a small skirmish, ma¡¯am. We have destroyed a Calencian Scouting Fleet in our area.¡± ¡°Hmph, that¡¯s all huh.¡± Diaroze replied with a mocking tone but she was not serious about her question in the first place. She knows full well that it is too early for them to encounter the enemy main fleet. ¡°Still, if your location was already exposed then the enemy main fleet will surely head your way. I will send in some reinforcements so stay put until then.¡± Due to its structure, the Mobile Fort¡¯s movement is extremely slow. That¡¯s why they have to station it in a star system that the enemy¡¯s main force is likely to pass through. From the movement they detected so far, they¡¯ve mostly predicted the location of their targets already. Considering that the Calencian went out of their way to send a scout on this route, Diaroze is sure that her enemy will travel through this system. Her plan is to consolidate the forces she had deployed to defend the other routes and launch a preemptive strike there. ¡°Understood.¡± After replying in a serious tone, the captain cut off the communication and sighed. ¡°Now then, we¡¯re going to get very busy soon.¡± CH 64 Capturing the Mobile Fort 1 ¡°Things have become troublesome now.¡± Said Schleer in a troubled voice. After letting out a small sigh, Kisei asked her ¡®what¡¯s wrong?¡¯ from inside the cockpit of the [Caliburn-Revive]. ¡°We¡¯ve just received news that the Noredian just deployed a new type of weapon. From the information we received, we think that it¡¯s a bombardment-type mobile fort.¡± ¡°Uwah, seriously¡­..¡± ¡°Our Scouting Fleet led by Colonel Flui was destroyed in the Wraith System. The information regarding the Mobile Fort came from their last communication.¡± Even through the communication device, Kisei can feel Schleer pain from her voice. While wondering what he should say to her, his gaze was distracted by the image displayed on his sub-monitor. ¡°Geh.¡± Involuntarily, Kisei exclaimed. What is currently displaying on his sub-monitor is the image of a giant cannon with legs pointing its muzzle directly toward the camera. ¡°The estimated weight is at 60,000 tons? Did the Nored R&D go mad or something?¡± While looking at the data attached to the image, Kisei unintentionally groaned at its ridiculousness. Its weight is equal to a large battleship. Still, since it only has one main gun, he can¡¯t even imagine its full firepower. Even a battleship would not be able to withstand a direct hit from such a thing. ¡°I never thought that they would bring out a mobile fort here. This is completely unexpected.¡± Mobile Fort is the general term for this type of gigantic weapon. To operate such a thing, it is equipped with the I-con system so that a small number of people can operate it, giving it extra room for equipment that maximizes its performance. This one is surely a troublesome opponent. ¡°You said that this thing was in the Wraith system right, Your Highness?¡± Their conversation was interrupted by Saki. While searching her memory, Saki operates the console of her striker with her fingers. ¡°That system should be a desolate one with only a few asteroids and one red dwarf right.¡± ¡°So there¡¯s practically no cover for us at all huh. It would be bad for us if we push our main force into that kind of environment with such a thing waiting for us. Your Highness, what¡¯s the plan?¡± The Calencian Fleet is currently consolidating their forces to avoid getting crushed one by one. That¡¯s why Schleer has no other choice but to launch an attack with this honestly oversized fleet. ¡°A course that can avoid it¡­¡­¡­.¡± Schleer, who¡¯s on the bridge, brings up the star chart on her terminal to explore their options but soon after, she shakes her head. ¡°It¡¯s no good. If we don¡¯t pass through the Wraith System, it will take us half a month until we reach the Direco System. We can¡¯t afford to waste that much time.¡± The Direco System is a system that once housed a large military base for the Calencian. Since its location provides much geopolitical advantage, they will gain a sizable advantage if they can retake it. The ultimate goal of this operation is to take this system back under their control. ¡°Your Highness! The fact that they have made contact with our Scouting Fleet means that the enemy should already have a rough idea of where we are. If we don¡¯t get into position as soon as possible, the enemy defensive network will be established first.¡± ¡°If they can join up with their main fleet, we will be exposed to crossfire and our fleet will be in jeopardy. This is bad¡­¡­¡± Solana and Chief of Staff Reit groaned. The two usually are not fond of each other but it seems that they do share an opinion this time. ¡°Their new weapon is specialized in anti-ship warfare. I think that it would be wise to deal with it using strikers. Mercenary, what do you think?¡± ¡°Chief!¡± Solana shouted with a bitter expression. With such a big target, she doesn¡¯t think that a lone striker will have enough firepower to take it down. Not to mention that the enemy already possesses far superior armor and firepower even with vessels of the same class. ¡°I think it¡¯s possible. It¡¯s not my first time dealing with a Mobile Fort either. I will do something about it.¡± ¡°O, Oi! Is this really okay?¡± Saki involuntarily asked. After all, the image of Kisei¡¯s unconscious body at Leboir is still fresh in her mind. ¡°It¡¯s not like taking down this big guy will immediately end the battle. We will have to rely on you for other things too. It would be bad if you collapsed after taking this thing down, you know.¡± ¡°A mere knight has no place voicing their opinion in a strategic meeting, I¡¯ll have you know.¡± ¡°Heh, say whatever you want. If this guy can¡¯t fight then you will be in deep trouble too.¡± Although it was not a video communication, Saki replied while bearing her fang at the mic. ¡®I will beat up this old hag once this operation is over¡¯ is what Saki currently has in mind. Despite Reit being her superior, Saki couldn¡¯t care less about what an old hag she doesn¡¯t know thinks of her. What¡¯s more important is the well-being of Kisei, who she¡¯s already considered a comrade. ¡°It¡¯s fine. Taking down a mobile fort is even easier than taking down a battleship after all. I will do something about it.¡± ¡°Are you for real?¡± ¡°What do I get from lying here? You know that to improve its performance, a mobile fort like this often cuts down on the operating crews as much as possible right.¡± Not only Saki, the other 3 also nodded to Kisei¡¯s words. The Mobile Fort has at most 2 crew members. Even if they man it with more people, they can¡¯t link those extra minds with the I-con system so its fighting power will decrease instead. Among the people working in the military, this is common knowledge. ¡°So, since it¡¯s like that, its movement will be completely affected by the pilot¡¯s skill. Do you really think I will lose in a contest of skill? Impossible right?¡± ¡°W, Well,¡­¡­that¡¯s certainly true.¡± Schleer agreed. ¡°So you understand now? Alright, let¡¯s quickly get rid of this thing. Even I won¡¯t be able to do anything about it if the Noredian main fleet manages to join up with them after all.¡± Kisei said with a grin. CH 65 [[Exiting FTL navigation. Now entering cruising mode.]] The AI¡¯s announcement echoed inside the cockpit but the rainbow starry sky continued to display on the main monitor of the [Caliburn-Revive]. At the moment, the [Caliburn-Revive] is traveling at 90 percent of the speed of light along the outer edge of the Wraith system. Naturally, this speed was not achieved by the machine¡¯s thruster but by the built-in FTL drive. ¡°Making a subtle approach really paid off, it seems we get to make the first move.¡± Said Schleer whose [Mistilteinn] is currently straddling on a [Ride-Booster] with a grin. Including Kisei¡¯s [Caliburn-Revive], the Calencian currently has 3 Zeniths and 200 other strikers inside the Wraith system. On the other hand, there is little presence of enemy units in the surrounding star systems. Some of the enemies may have concealed themselves to ambush them but it appears that by mobilizing only the fast-moving strikers, they managed to arrive here earlier than the enemy¡¯s main force. ¡°77th and 79th Striker Squadrons, form a blockade at the space connecting to the Maga system.¡± In response to Schleer¡¯s command, multiple strikers with silver rings behind their backs break away from the group. Their movement was disciplined. And they are supposed to be. After all, Schleer only brought the most elite of the pilots Calencia has to offer. Due to the Mobile Fort¡¯s presence, if they can not crush thoroughly in this operation, their offensive operation would be rendered unviable. After assigning the striker squadrons to their positions, only a few dozens of strikers were left with Kisei¡¯s group. Moreover, instead of a ride booster, what those strikers are currently straddling on are Ride-Gun-Carriers, which are motorcycle-shaped mobile artillery cannons. Still, one could say that this amount of firepower is insufficient to take down a Mobile Fort. ¡°Now then, we have cast the net The question is if our prey is actually here¡­..¡± Currently, Schleer has cut off all paths of retreat with a large number of strikers. However, that would be for naught if the Mobile Fort already left the system. ¡°Still, dealing with an invisible enemy really is annoying, isn¡¯t it. The Scouting Fleet couldn¡¯t detect it until it opened fire on them after all¡­¡­.¡± ¡°Perhaps they were taken by surprise while they were performing a surface scan. Something like that can¡¯t possibly be hidden by just the mass of a big asteroid after all.¡± ¡°I see. So they decided to shoot first before they got shot huh.¡± Saki groaned. Even for a fleet, taking on the first strike by a cannon as powerful as a siege unit will inevitably cause great damage after all. ¡°Oi, Hokuto. Can you tell where it¡¯s hiding?¡± ¡°I can.¡± ¡°Seriously.¡± Although Saki posted the question half-jokingly, the blunt answer she received betrayed her expectations. ¡°Even an Active Stealth system can not hide killing intent you know. It¡¯s fine. They are still on that asteroid. Let¡¯s quickly clean this up.¡± ¡°How very convenient¡­¡­..Aye, aye, leave the support to me.¡± Thus, the detached units head for Asteroid B1. With the speed on the edge of the speed of light, they immediately arrived at the vicinity of the target asteroid. From Kisei¡¯s main monitor, he can see the bumpy potato-like surface of the asteroid gradually getting closer and closer. [[Gravity field detected. Leaving Cruising Mode. Now returning to normal navigation.]] The FTL navigation automatically cut off and the silver ring behind the back of each striker disappeared. ¡°Where is it¡­¡­at this range, should we not be able to see them? They may have optical camouflage as well. We have to be careful.¡± ¡°Your Highness, let me take the lead. I¡¯m sorry but please let me have command of this operation. I¡¯m probably the only one here who ever has a run-in with a mobile fort after all.¡± ¡°It¡¯s okay, I¡¯m counting on you.¡± With its poor maneuverability and high construction costs, a Mobile Fort is an extremely extravagant weapon. Not only is the Calencia empire the smallest nation in this region, but it also has never experienced a war of this scale since its founding. Deciding that she should leave this to an expert, Schleer immediately gives her permission. ¡°Fighting under a man!?¡± One of the pilots in charge of the mobile artillery unit exclaimed in dissatisfaction. Kisei has indeed been quite successful in the previous operations so he has a good reputation within the Calencian army but some people still have some dissatisfaction due to his gender. ¡°Fine then! If you do not want to obey my command then just move on your own!¡± That being said, Kisei is already used to such reactions. He simply grinned and replied back, causing the artillery unit to get noisy for a while. Still, there are no fools who decide to break up battle formation on the actual battle here. ¡°M, My apology. I will discipline this idiot later.¡± The captain of the artillery unit cleared her throat and said so apologetically to conclude the matter. ¡°Why do I have to apolo¨C¡­..¡± ¡°You idiot! You are not a child anymore so stop being so selfish already!¡± ¡°Again, I¡¯m sorry¡­¡­..¡± ¡°Is this the time to be fooling around! Distance to the enemy 50,000. We are almost at the enemy¡¯s kill zon¨C¡­¡­.¡± When Saki who finally snapped angrily raised her voice, Kisei¡¯s sharp voice interrupted her. ¡°All units, Spread out!¡± The very next moment, a torrent of crimson beams flew toward them from the jet-black space. CH 66 The Mobile Fort Capture 3 ¡°Damage report!¡± ¡°8th Artillery Company, No Damage!¡± ¡°9th Artillery Company, Same!¡± In response to Kisei¡¯s question, the units that spread out in a hurry gradually report their status. That single attack contained the power to wipe them out but fortunately, Kisei¡¯s warning arrived in time so they did not suffer any damage. ¡°Hiee.¡± Saki moaned while glancing at her radar which is now covered in radar noises. As the overwhelmingly powerful beam flew past them at a close distance, the readings from their detection equipment went off the chart. It¡¯s clear to them that even a graze from that beam is enough to reduce their strikers to nothing. ¡°Artillery units and 3rd Mobile Squadron, head to point C556 and prepare to fire at the enemy. if you spot any enemy striker unit then please intercept them as you see fit. Makishima-san, sorry but, please go with them. It would be bad if the enemy deployed a Zenith as well.¡± ¡°Ahh!? Isn¡¯t that almost everyone we brought!? Are you planning to rush toward that big thing with only this number!?¡± ¡°It¡¯s okay, I will do something about it! Please go, the second shot is coming.¡± ¡°Tsk, fine!¡± It would be a lie if she says that she doesn¡¯t worry about him at all but she can not afford to stay around and chat during a battle. Saki turns her striker around to heads toward the designated point with the mobile artillery unit equipped with the Mobile-Gun-Carriers. ¡°Your Highness! Please take care of Hokuto!¡± ¡°Of course, leave him to me.¡± Schleer nodded and smiled at the fact that she¡¯s chosen to stay. Saki lets out a small sigh and flies away with the artillery unit. There are only three strikers left, the [Caliburn-Revive]. The [Mistilteinn], and¡­¡­.a [Claymore] with spare magazines for anti-ship grenade launcher attached to all of its hardpoints. ¡°This is quite a bold strategy isn¡¯t it.¡± The pilot of said [Claymore] commented with a bitter smile. The standard tactic against a Mobile Fort taught in military textbooks is to launch a saturated attack and overwhelm it with an overwhelming number. She has never heard of anyone trying to take down a Mobile Fort with such a small number of people before. ¡°It will be okay. If you can keep up with me then I won¡¯t let anything happen to you.¡± ¡°Please, cut me some slack.¡± ¡°Ensign Ryaka, this is not the time to be joking.¡± At Schleer¡¯s reprimand, the [Claymore]¡¯s pilot, Ensign Ryaka jokingly fake a whimper. She¡¯s quite a gutsy woman. ¡°We have to take that thing down before their reinforcements arrive. Let¡¯s go in.¡± With a light smile, Kisei fully accelerated toward his target. The tachometer immediately hit the limit. The two strikers follow behind him but unlike the Zeniths Kisei and Schleer are piloting, the power of a mass-produced [Claymore]¡¯s thruster is very inferior and the distance between them quickly widens. However, they don¡¯t seem to mind that. ¡°I see it!¡± On the surface of the asteroid, there stands a strange-looking weapon that can only be described as a giant cannon with limbs. Even though they are still a considerable distance away, its gigantic size was apparent to them. ¡°They came at us with only 3 strikers!? What are they planning!¡± The pilot shouted inside the cockpit of the [Valizer]. After all, rushing toward a Mobile Fort with only a small number of strikers could not be called anything else but an act of suicide. ¡°Major General, that white striker¡­¡­..is it not the rumored [Wicked Star]?¡± ¡°I see, so that¡¯s their play huh. But even if they sent out their ace, what can a single striker do! He can¡¯t possibly take down this [Valizer]!¡± Although it is difficult to operate due to its poor maneuverability, the armor and firepower of the [Valizer] are simply in a different dimension. There¡¯s no way to take this thing down unless the enemy overwhelms them with a large number of strikers. Thinking so, the pilot has a ferocious smile on her face. ¡°Is the reload not done yet? I want to fire at least another round with the main gun. Even if it¡¯s a little, I want to cull the number of their artillery.¡± ¡°We will be ready in 10 seconds, ma¡¯am.¡± ¡°Good! Hand me the control of the interceptors. I will deal with the enemy strikers, you just focus on using the main gun.¡± After giving her order, the pilot turned both arms of the [Valizer] toward the approaching Kisei¡¯s group. The 8 Rapid-Blaster-guns installed inside the finger-like parts from each hand opened fire at the same time. ¡°Woah, they just fired at us.¡± ¡°Don¡¯t worry about it!¡± Schleer and Ryaka performed an evasive maneuver to avoid the barrage but Kisei unsheathed his photon saber and kept rushing in while parrying the beams. ¡°Damn it, what¡¯s up with that guy!? Is it ready yet!?¡± ¡°Another 5 seconds, ma¡¯am! Just a little bit more!¡± As though he heard the gunner¡¯s voice, Kisei also shouted. ¡°ALL UNITS OPEN FIRE!¡± At that moment, the mobile artillery units which had been orbiting around the asteroid fired their 30Mw Blaster-Cannon. 18 Blaster-Cannons were fired at the same time and the Green Beams fired from them are traveling toward the [Valizer]. ¡°With some peashooters!? Just ignore them, just fire! Wipe them out with our counterattack!¡± All shots were diffused or deflected away by the Deflect Shield. The [Valizer] was left unscathed. The pilot smiled in satisfaction but at the same time, Kisei pushed in with his photon Saber, ramming it along with his striker at the shield. The Deflect Shield is pushing back Kisei¡¯s charge but it can not perform at its full capacity due to the previous bombardment. As a result, the [Caliburn-Revive] managed to enter inside the [Valizer]¡¯s shield. ¡°Oh, sh¡­¡­.!?¡± The pilot screamed but it was already too late. Kisei pulled the trigger on his control stick and fired a missile from his anti-ship grenade launcher in the [Caliburn-Revive]¡¯s right hand. Leaving behind a white trail, the missile hit the joint of the [Valizer]¡¯s left leg. No actual damage was done to the Mobile Fort but he managed to shake it when it finally fired its second shot. ¡°I made it¡­¡­.!¡± The misalignment caused by the impact was minimal but it was a fatal error when you are aiming into the vast outer space. The super high-powered beam was fired but it did not get anywhere near the mobile artillery unit. ¡°I won¡¯t let you fire the third one! This ends here!¡± With a grin, Kisei takes aim with his anti-ship grenade launcher. TLN: So, Big Zam with pew pew pew arms. CH 67 The Mobile Fort Capture 4 ¡°Damn it, he¡¯s inside¡­..! Where are our strikers!¡± ¡°You were the one who told us to stay away because we might accidentally get caught up in the energy blast, Major General!¡± ¡°Argh, what a mess! Hurry up and come over already!¡± The inside of the [Valizer]¡¯s cockpit was sent into chaos. On the other hand, Kisei fired another missile from his anti-ship grenade launcher. The [Valizer] activated its automatic interception system and Gatling guns installed on its body opened fire with their 40mm caliber bullets. However, the missile still managed to sew through the hail of bullets and hit the 4 blaster guns installed on one of its hands. ¡°Ugh¡­..he¡¯s getting carried away!¡± The gunner barks while using her hand to operate the control stick. In anger, she operates the remaining 4 Rapid-Blaster-Guns and fires at Kisei. Along with the Gatling guns that moved in tandem, tremendous firepower was directed toward the [Caliburn-Revive]. ¡°You thought using automatic aim would work on me!?¡± Kisei fires his thrusters and tries to fly through the gap between the [Valizer]¡¯s legs. ¡°Fools, I already knew you would do that!¡± The pilot seems to have predicted this maneuver and operates one of the [Valizer]¡¯s legs which is the size of a small battlecruiser to perform a kick at the [Caliburn-Revive]. Contrary to its appearance, its movement is rather swift. The blow should be extremely difficult to avoid due to the sheer size of the leg and the distance before the collision but Kisei only avoided it with a paper-thin margin. At the same time, he operates the machine gun installed on the [Caliburn-Revive]¡¯s head and fired small ammunition into the gaps in the [Valizer]¡¯s armor. ¡°Hydraulic hose No. 20 was severed!? He did that in such a short time!?¡± The pilot was surprised when she saw the damage report on her sub-monitor. There are other hydraulic hoses inside the leg so the damage did not cause any malfunction but the decrease in power and speed from that leg is inevitable. ¡°Please turn us around, ma¡¯am! He¡¯s in the blindspot of our AA guns¡­.AH!?¡± ¡°Another one!¡± Making use of the small opening, the remaining Rapid Blaster Guns were destroyed by another missile from Kisei¡¯s grenade launcher. The unpleasant vibration hit the cockpit once again. ¡°You idiot, just use the missiles! Why do you think they made us carry a mountain load of high-mobility missiles with us!¡± ¡°I, I¡¯m sorry.¡± When the gunner pressed the button to launch the missiles in a panic, the missile hatches at the bottom of the [Valizer]¡¯s main body opened. However, before any missiles could be fired from inside, several green beams flew inside them with extreme accuracy. Naturally, it was Kisei who had already switched his weapon to a blaster rifle. ¡°What!?¡± The missile launcher blew up in a fiery explosion. The depot was destroyed. However, with the missile being designed for anti-striker combat, the [Valizer] did not suffer any major damage. Still, many of the missile launchers have become unusable. ¡°What a monster! Still¡­¡­¡± Even so, multiple missiles flew out from the remaining launchers. Their number is in dozens, quite a large number for a single striker. They all home in and head toward the [Caliburn-Revive]. ¡°Woah!¡± With the flood of missiles flying toward him with trails of white smoke, Kisei has to take evasive maneuvers. Some missiles seemed likely to hit him but thanks to the newly installed anti-missile laser interceptor, they were all shot down before contact. ¡°Ma¡¯am, you are not doing any good too¡­..!¡± ¡°H, How.¡± After losing multiple of their main AA weapons, the gunner muttered in a stunned manner. The automatic Gatling guns continue to put up some resistance but they are also being taken out one after another by blaster attacks from Kisei. ¡°W, Whatever! The main gun is armored and a striker can¡¯t possibly have enough firepower to pierce through our vital parts! He won¡¯t be able to do any major damage to us!¡± The Noredian striker escort unit has already returned and is currently engaging with the Calencian striker squadrons. That¡¯s why the pilot decided to leave their striker unit to deal with the enemy strikers. ¡°More importantly, can we cull the number of their artillery!? They are the biggest threat to us right now!¡± Although given the [Valizer]¡¯s Deflect Shield and protective armor, the mobile artillery the Calencian side currently is deploying should amount to nothing but peashooters, they continue to bombard the asteroid that their escort unit is fighting on. If they can not take out the enemy mobile artillery, their strikers will only get one-sidedly attack from outside their range. Moreover, with a Zenith like the [Mistilteinn] rampaging on the escort unit, they can not afford to assist the [Valizer] in dealing with Kisei either. ¡°It¡¯s no good, ma¡¯am, their mobile artillery unit also has a Zenith escorting them¡­¡­¡­we can¡¯t get any closer!¡± The pilot involuntarily clenched her teeth in response to the answer of the captain in charge of attacking the enemy mobile artillery unit. ¡°Where are the reinforcements from the main fleet!? With the main fleet, we should be able to crush these guys easily!¡± ¡°The Calencian strikers are blocking the connecting point, ma¡¯am! Moreover, it seems that they also have their main fleet stationed nearby as well¡­¡­.¡± Even with inferior numbers, the Calencian can turn the tide of war if they make an all-out attack on the Noredian Fleet the moment their main fleet exits FTL navigation. Any decent commander would never send their troops into such an ambush unprotected. Not to mention that even with the presence of the [Valizer] in this system, the Noredian do not have any defensive equipment here. With the Calencian main fleet nearby, it would be a bad idea to launch an unreasonable attack here. Valentina probably would never choose this system as their main battleground. ¡°Damn it, what should we do¡­¡­.¡± Using the pilot¡¯s moment of confusion as an opening, Kisei turned his striker around. He then quickly moved back just before he hit the Deflect Shield. ¡°Now, Your Highness!¡± The moment he shouted so, Kisei fired his wire gun. His target was the [Mistilteinn]. ¡°So it¡¯s finally my turn!¡± Schleer answers with a ferocious smile. At the same time, she operates the [Mistilteinn] to grab onto the other end of the fired wire. Seeing that, Kisei reels in the [Mistilteinn] while anchoring the [Caliburn-Revive] to the asteroid with his pile bunker. The Deflect Shield¡¯s function is to repel foreign matter from outside the shield. However, with the carbon nanotube wire connected the inside to the [Mistilteinn], Schleer was reeled inside the shield without any resistance. Thus, another striker has infiltrated the [Valizer]¡¯s immediate vicinity. ¡°Wawawa! Please take me too!¡± That communication came from Ryaka who was still outside. With the [Claymore] being only a mass-produced model, it would be difficult for her to withstand an assault from such a large number of opponents. At the moment, she¡¯s barely managed to avoid the concentrated attack from the escort strikers deployed in her surroundings. ¡°Now!¡± The wire gun was fired again and in the same way, the [Claymore] infiltrated inside the Deflect Shield. With that being the case, the [Valizer]¡¯s shield is now working in their favor instead. ¡°Th, this is bad, ma¡¯am! Let¡¯s disable the shield and have our escort strikers drive them away!¡± ¡°Ugh¡­¡­.¡± The pilot hesitated for a moment but seeing that the Calencian mobile artillery unit continued to fire at them, she immediately made her decision. ¡°No, we need to take that artillery down first! Unlike these strikers, that artillery might pack enough punch to damage the [Valizer].¡± In truth, the [Valizer] can withstand the attack from such mobile artillery with its physical armor even without the Deflect Shield. However, after being toyed with by Kisei for a while, the pilot doesn¡¯t want to deal with him anymore. That¡¯s why she used that reason to avoid dealing with him for now. However, that was a big mistake. CH 68 The Mobile Fort Capture 5 ¡°Okay, let¡¯s take down this annoying shield first.¡± While avoiding the bullet from the AA Gatling guns, Kisei stated his plan. As the [Valizer]¡¯s pilot speculated, it is impossible for 3 strikers to cause any real damage to the gigantic fortress. ¡°We are going to take out the shield generator? I see, that¡¯s why you need me¡­¡­.¡± Schleer nodded with a smile on her face. The [Mistilteinn] is a Zenith Type striker that boasts its firepower. If it comes to destroying things then Schleer is pretty confident. ¡°We will be going at it with a focused strike. Because of its function, I¡¯m sure that the generator won¡¯t be heavily armored¡± Saying so, Kisei handed his anti-ship grenade launcher with depleted ammunition to Ensign Ryaka¡¯s [Claymore]. She naturally accepted it and gave him her fully loaded anti-ship grenade launcher. Against such an opponent, Kisei doesn¡¯t want to waste time reloading. That¡¯s why he deliberately brought along Ensign Ryaka for extra ammo and such support. ¡°Roger that, Let¡¯s go!¡± The [Caliburn-Revive] and the [Mistilteinn] fired their thrusters and accelerated. Their target is the backside of the [Valizer]. The remaining AA Gatling guns continue to fire at them but compared to when the battle first began, their firepower is at most unreliable. Then, even those remaining guns were all taken out by the counterattack from the 3 strikers. ¡°That must be it.¡± At the location where Schleer pointed, there was a cylindrical engine covered with a mesh-like bulletproof cover. Its size is a little bigger than a striker. To generate a shield with repulsive force, the generator needs to be exposed to the outside. With such a limitation, it is difficult to completely protect such a thing, that¡¯s why they have no choice but to rely on such a flimsy defense from a bulletproof cover. ¡°I¡¯m taking it down!¡± The full firepower of the [Mistilteinn] was immediately demonstrated. The blaster cannon on its shoulder, the heavy machine gun in its hands, and the missile launchers on its torso and legs all fired toward the target at the same time. To support her, Kisei also fires his anti-ship grenade launcher in rapid succession. Being subjected to such firepower, the bulletproof cover was easily blown away, exposing the weak point of the gigantic mobile fort. With countless beams and rain of bullets falling on the generator, it immediately turned into useless metal scrap. ¡°The shield generator is down!¡± ¡°A, AHH! Those pesky flies!!¡± The pilot shouted with a bright red face but it was already too late. At that moment, Kisei gives his order in a sharp voice. ¡°Artillery unit! Fire everything you have at the Mobile Fort in 10 seconds!¡± ¡°Understood!¡± Due to the strenuous effort on Saki and the other striker pilots¡¯ part, he received a reliable reply from the mobile artillery unit. The vanguards including Kisei then hurried away from the [Valizer] to avoid getting caught up in the bombardment. The Noredian striker corps shoot their blaster rifles at them from behind but Kisei deflects all the beams away using his photon saber. Moreover, as a counterattack, he fired a missile from his anti-ship grenade launcher at them. ¡°You think something that slow will hit us!¡± The Noredian pilot casually evaded the missile with a grin but another missile flew toward the location she is now heading toward. ¡°Uwah!¡± The firepower of an anti-ship missile is quite an overkill against a striker. The [Jetta] immediately lost the lower half of its body and was blown away. ¡°All crafts, Fire!¡± The moment after, the sharp voice of the captain of the mobile artillery unit can be heard from the communication line and a large number of thick beams impact on top of the [Valizer] ¡°Damage Report!¡± ¡°Minimal Damage! They barely scratched us, ma¡¯am!¡± However, the armor of the [Valizer] was very sturdy. Although its surface turns red from the heat and slightly dented from the impact, the beams did not penetrate its armor. Seeing that, some of the pilots in the mobile artillery unit sighed in disappointment. ¡°As expected of [Valizer]! That was nothing to us!¡± On the other hand, the [Valizer]¡¯s pilot rejoices and hits the console panel with a big smile while celebrating. ¡°Hokuto-san!¡± ¡°It¡¯s fine!¡± In response to Schleer¡¯s worried voice, Kisei exchanged his anti-ship grenade launcher with Ensign Ryaka again with a confident expression. He then kicked off the surface of the asteroid and flew up. ¡°I won¡¯t let you!¡± The escort [Jettas] opened fire at him to push him back but Kisei swat away their bullets and arrived directly above the [Valizer] without any problem. ¡°S, Shit, Damn Monster! What are you going to do now!¡± ¡°This!¡± Kisei responded to the pilot¡¯s cry even though their communication channel was not connected and fired his anti-ship grenade launcher at the [Valizer] in rapid succession until all of the loaded ammunition was exhausted. The sluggish [Valizer[ has no way to avoid it and all missiles hit the spot previously damaged by the salvo from the artillery unit. ¡°CHESTOH!¡± As soon as the ammunition was exhausted, Kisei threw the grenade launcher away and grasped his photon saber with both hands. He then fired the thruster at full power and plunged toward the [Valizer]. ¡°Uwah! Somebody stop him!¡± The pilot shouted but there is nothing that can stop Kisei right now. The green blade of his photon saber managed to pierce the dented armor. The photon saber¡¯s particle condenser immediately ran out of power from the forceful penetration. Kisei threw it away and instead grabbed his blaster rifle and put its muzzle into the small hole made by the photon saber. ¡°This is the end!¡± He fired. With no armor plate in the way, there¡¯s nothing to block the beam. The highly condensed particle shot through the [Valizer]¡¯s engine and the phase transition turbine which was rotating at high speed shut down with a loud noise. ¡°Main engine disabled! Our main gun is down, ma¡¯am!¡± ¡°A¡­, AHh¡­.¡± At the gunner¡¯s report, the pilot involuntarily gave up. They are not completely offline thanks to the power from the sub-engine but they can not perform any proper movement let alone any attack now. With that being the case, the [Valizer] is as good as an oversized coffin. ¡°I, it¡¯s over¡­¡­everything is over.¡± The moment the pilot fell into despair, cheers rose from the Calencian army. ¡°WOAHH! Cheers to the [Wicked Star]!¡± ¡°We did it! We did it! As expected of my Kisei-san!¡± ¡°I think I just heard something that I can¡¯t ignore though!?¡± Although the Calencian soldiers were raising their voices of joy, Kisei frown as he stared up to the sky. ¡°Don¡¯t let your guard down, there¡¯s more coming!¡± Almost at the same time that Kisei¡¯s warning rang out, a powerful beam was fired toward the [Caliburn-Revive]. Kisei avoided it by utilizing the full power of his thruster and the crimson beam that cut through the blackness of space made its impact on the armor of the [Valizer]. ¡°Your Highness, Ensign Ryaka, please retreat toward our artillery unit! This one is skilled, I will handle her!¡± ¡°Wha¡­.an enemy!? Did they break through our blockade?¡± ¡°Ugh, let¡¯s go! Your Highness!¡± Schleer was confused but her hands still operate the control stick on reflex and Ensign Ryaka follows suits. If the enemy reinforcements arrive, their mobile artillery unit will be in danger unless they quickly retreat. ¡°So you let the small flies escape first huh. That¡¯s a good judgment [DESU].¡± The enemy communication came through the open channel. When he turned to look, he spotted a blue striker with a large pistol in each hand. ¡°It¡¯s nice to meet you [DESUNE], [Wicked-Star]-san. I am Nora Arcade. One of the Nored Empire¡¯s 4 Heavenly¡ª-¡± Inside the cockpit of the blue striker, a girl with short gray hair introduces herself with a sadist smile. ¡°My second name is [Gouten] (TLN: Heavenly Roar). I and this [Zarava] will be your opponent [DESU].¡± Nora challenged Kisei to single combat in a cheerful voice while pointing her blaster magnums at Kisei. ¡°Now then, let¡¯s see what you got!¡± CH 69 The Roar of Heaven 1 Several dozens of minutes ago. A striker exited FTL Navigation at a blockaded connection point in the Wraith system. It is a unique-looking blue striker armed with two large chrome pistols. Its name is [Zarava], a striker belonging to one of the strongest pilots in the Nored Empire¡­¡­..Nora Arcade¡¯s personal striker. ¡°FTL jammer is working! Only one striker got through but it¡¯s a Zenith, don¡¯t let your guard down!¡± Of course, the connection point was being monitored by the elites of the Calencian empire. After exiting FTL navigation, the [Zarava] was surrounded by hundreds of strikers ¡°Such a backwater country¡­¡­hmph, do they really think that they can stop me with just this? It seems they underestimated me quite a bit [DESUNE].¡± Nora deploys acrobatic maneuvers to avoid the merciless barrage fired at her. The accelerometer on her console is displaying some ridiculous numbers but Nora¡¯s expression remains composed. ¡°This guy, she¡¯s no ordinary pilot!¡± ¡°Her Highness will be in danger if we let her pass! Stop her here at all costs!¡± Several [Claymores] flew in front of the [Zarava] to block its path and opened fire with their blaster rifles and submachine guns. ¡°Hah, fools. It¡¯s a hundred years too early for small flies like you to stop this Nora-sama! [DESUYO]¡± Nora avoids the oncoming beams and shells with paper-thin margin. Her movements indicate that this is nothing for her. It¡¯s because she completely saw through her enemy¡¯s attacks that she managed to avoid them with minimal movements. ¡°Time for payback [DESUYO]!¡± Her two pistols fired at the same time, the beams emitted from them easily penetrated the cockpits of the two [Claymores] that attacked her. ¡°No way, with a single shot!?¡± ¡°Those guns, they are not ordinary blaster pistols!¡± Panic started to spread among the Calencian soldiers. After all, this type of small firearm normally should not have enough power to penetrate a striker¡¯s frontal armor with a single shot. ¡°Damn it! We can¡¯t take down that striker with a half-baked attack like this! I¡¯m going in!¡± ¡°Ah, Viscountess! No!¡± A [Claymore] with gorgeous decoration pulled out its longsword and plunged toward the [Zarava]. This [Claymore] appeared to have been tuned considerably as the speed of its charge is unthinkable of an ordinary mass-produced machine. ¡°How rash. Seriously, muscleheads are the worst [DESUNE].¡± On the other hand, Nora greeted the charge with frosty ridicule. The [Claymore] swung its longsword down from above but the [Zarava] parried it with a small bayonet attached to its blaster magnum on its right hand while pointing the muzzle of the magnum in its left hand at the cockpit of the [Claymore] with a flowing movement. ¡°Bye.¡± A crimson beam was mercilessly fired at the cockpit. After looking toward the enemy pilot who was completely evaporated by the beam with a glimpse of pity, a ferocious smile returned to Nora¡¯s face. ¡°I don¡¯t mind sparing you people if you let me through though [DESUGANE]?¡± ¡°Avenge the Viscountess!!¡± A [Claymore] rushed in while spraying its machinegun toward Nora. ¡°Haa¡­¡­..¡± Nora pulls the trigger as she sighed in disappointment. Her kill score was just increased by one. ¡°Damn monster!¡± ¡°Surround her and concentrate fire!¡± However, the Calencian pilots here are also elites. Such losses are not enough to damage their morale. Rather, their attack only becomes fiercer from the anger of losing their friends. ¡°How diligence.¡± Nora muttered in a tone that is a mix of disappointment and pity. ¡°It can¡¯t be helped then. I will have you people quiet down a bit [DESU].¡± The onslaught of Nora¡¯s blaster magnums begins on the [Claymores]. Her shooting speed is fast, moreover, her aim is extremely accurate. One after another, the Calencian strikers are being shot down. ¡°Oops.¡± Then, the blaster magnum in the [Zarava]¡¯s right hand ran out of bullets. At the same time, an empty magazine was automatically ejected with a warning sound echoing in the cockpit. Using that opening, 3 [Claymores] rush her with their longsword and photon saber. ¡°Fuu.¡± With a small exhalation, Nora fires at them with the blaster magnum on the left hand. One [Claymore] was shot down by the crimson beam but she did not have enough time to make a second shot. While avoiding the sideways swing of their photon saber by somersaulting backward, a sub-arm installed below the elbow of the [Zarava]¡¯s right arm slammed a spare magazine into the blaster magnum, completing the reload. ¡°The end.¡± Nora fires both magnums, destroying the two remaining [Claymores] in one move. ¡°We can¡¯t beat that thing in melee! The performance and pilot skills are just too different.¡± ¡°But that weapon should have trouble against faraway opponents. Support team! We need fire support at our location!¡± At the command of the commander, the support team consisting of specially designed strikers equipped with blaster cannons fixed on their shoulder called the [Partisans] open fire on the [Zarava]. ¡°Hmph.¡± Nora scoffed in ridicule while avoiding the long-range bombardment. ¡°Certainly, this [Zarava] is powerless in long-range[DESU]. BUT¡­¡­.¡± The moment Nora stepped on the foot pedal, the large propulsion engine equipped on the back of the [Zarava] generated enormous amounts of thrust. With a blue trail behind it, the [Zarava] sped through the space like a bullet. ¡°Wha¡­¡­! What¡¯s that speed! Support team, Retreat!¡± ¡°It¡¯s too late [DESUYONE]! Your order that is!¡± The [Zarava] assaults the support team who tried to retreat in a hurry. The two blaster magnums repeatedly fired and each time a Calencian striker was shot down. ¡°Well, is that all?¡± In less than 5 minutes the support team was wiped out. Nora nods satisfactorily at the result and looks around. There are still enemies left in her surroundings but they now realized that this is not an opponent they can beat so no one dares to attack carelessly. ¡°Okay then, let¡¯s get back to the mission. I¡¯m quite busy so I can¡¯t waste my time in a place like this [DESU].¡± With that said, the [Zarava] fired its thruster and left the place. Some of the Calencian strikers tried to give chase but the performance of their thrusters are just too different and Nora flew away in a blink of an eye.¡± ¡°What the hell¡­¡­.¡± Left behind, the Calencian soldiers had no choice but to stare blankly as she left. CH 70 The Roar of Heaven 2 Back to the present. When Nora announced herself as one of the 4 Heavenly, a big wave spread among both her enemies and allies. ¡°The 4 Heavenly!? Has Nora-sama came for us!?¡± ¡°We weren¡¯t abandoned!¡± ¡°Speaking of the [Gouten], she¡¯s one of our empire¡¯s strongest right! We won!¡± The morale of the Noredian soldiers which plummeted after the defeat of the [Valizer] recovered at once. Their sluggish movement quickly improved and several strikers immediately went after Schleer and Ryaka. Seeing that, Kisei has a happy smile on his face. ¡°This is why I can¡¯t have enough of a battlefield. It¡¯s so much fun right?¡± ¡°Kisei-san! Please be careful. The 4 Heavenly is the title given to the 4 best pilots of the Nored empire!¡± Schleer, who flew off to join the mobile artillery unit, gave him a warning with a sharp voice. ¡°That¡¯s an opponent you can¡¯t let your guard down against! Please, be careful!¡± ¡°I know.¡± While nodding to her, Kisei returned the now useless photon saber to the hardpoint and instead pulled out the blaster rifle from the waist. The attached bayonet gleamed at his opponent.¡± ¡°Hmph!¡± The one who made the first move was Nora. Activating the extra-large thruster on the back of the [Zarava], Nora speeds toward him with a powerful thrust. ¡°You¡¯re coming at me huh!¡± Kisei mercilessly fired his blaster rifle on the [Zarava] which is racing toward him like a comet. ¡°So what!¡± Nora skillfully utilized the big boost given by her thruster and avoided the beams. Kicking off the rocky surface of the asteroid, Nora fires her blaster magnums at Kisei while performing zigzag maneuvers. A large particle cartridge is ejected with each shot and the beam fired at Kisei was so thick that it dwarfed the muzzle. In response, Kisei flicked it back with his spare photon saber he pulled out using the left hand. Naturally, the thick beam was deflected back directly toward the [Zarava]. ¡°Just like the rumor said huh!¡± However, Nora wasn¡¯t named the strongest just for show either. She avoided it with minimal movement and fired the thruster even more. The powerful thrust blew the dust up from the surface of the asteroid, generating a cloud of dust. ¡°I might be a little disadvantaged at mid-range but close quarter combat is my thing [DESU]!¡± Nora accelerates even further while baring her fangs in a ferocious smile. The accelerating power of the [Zarava] which generates clouds of dust behind it every time it speeds up is unordinary. Its output is probably greater than that of the [Caliburn-Revive]. ¡°Hahahaha! Nice, fight me at whatever range you want, I will keep you company!¡± Saying so, Kisei also steps on the foot pedal. Now, the two are only a stone¡¯s throw away from each other. ¡°HAH!¡± Activating the anchor, the [Zarava] scrape the rocky surface as Nora operates the control stick to aim her blaster magnum at Kisei with a crisp movement. However, the moment she pulled the trigger, the bayonet attached to Kisei¡¯s rifle flicked the magnum away, disrupting her aim. The shot beam missed and ended up scorching the rocks nearby. ¡°There¡¯s more where that came from!¡± However, another magnum immediately pointed its muzzle at the cockpit of the [Caliburn-Revive]. ¡°You think I will let you!?¡± Kisei performed a strong high kick on the arm of the [Zarava]. Although the magnum was not dropped, the impact from the kick managed to shake the blue striker¡¯s massive frame. ¡°Tsk!¡± Nora did not try to forcefully regain her bearing. Instead, she fires the thruster up and jumps back while performing a somersault. ¡°I¡¯m actually quite acrobatic myself too [DESU]!¡± In the middle of a somersault, she fired both of her magnums again. Two powerful red beams race toward Kisei. ¡°Sloppy!¡± However, both shots were deflected back by his photon saber. Of course, once again it all fly back toward the [Zarava]. ¡°Ugh¡­..you little¨C!¡± Nora fully utilized her thruster to completely avoid the deflected shots but Kisei immediately followed up with a shot from his blaster rifle. Nora managed to avoid the shot but cold sweat started to form on her face. ¡°He flicked the shots right back at me again¡­¡­just what is this guy!¡± Normally, it would be easy to avoid projectiles at this distance. However, the beam fired by Kisei¡¯s rifle flies exactly toward the location where Nora moved to as though he knew beforehand where she planned to move. Without Nora¡¯s extraordinary reflex and the mobility of the [Zarava], she would be ridden with holes by now. ¡°Kuh, if I attack poorly from a distance I will be disadvantaged instead. I have to get close [DESUNE]!¡± Still, Nora has her pride as the strongest of the Nored empire. She can not afford to retreat here. So, she forcibly puts on a smile and fires her thruster at full capacity to charge at Kisei. ¡°I can¡¯t have enough! This is why I love doing this!¡± In return, Kisei bears a big smile as though he truly is enjoying this. He then fires his rifle in rapid succession toward Nora. ¡°A few shots from that thing won¡¯t hurt this [Zarava]!!¡± Nora kept evasive maneuver to a minimum. She allowed a few shots to hit but with a thick frontal armor plate and a high-performance regenerative armor capacitor, no major damage was caused to the machine itself. ¡°So you stopped overthinking already huh! GOOD!¡± Kisei was smiling but his blaster rifle had already run out of bullets. ¡°I¡¯ve got you!¡± Nora shouted as she saw he ejected the empty magazine. Her finger pulled the trigger and a shell was fired from a large caliber short-barrel grenade launcher mounted on the chest of the [Zarava]. The shell has a proximity fuze that detonates before Kisei could deflect it off and black smoke bursts out from the inside of the shell. ¡°You have something like that too huh!¡± Kisei groaned while glancing at the radar. The smoke appears to contain Chaff that can jam the radio wave as a countermeasure for radar. (TLN: Chaff are pieces of small aluminum or metalized glass fiber that are used as radar/targeting system countermeasure.) Not only can he not rely on the optical camera, the reading from radar also became unreliable. ¡°You are mine!¡± Inside the black smoke, he can¡¯t possibly deflect the beam back at her. Thinking so, Nora fired her blaster magnum with a smile on her face. CH 71 The Roar of Heaven 3 ¡°WHO-!¡± Inside the black cloud of smoke, a green blade was swung up. The crimson beam that came flying toward Kisei was then batted away like a baseball. ¡°-DO YOU THINK I AM!¡± The beam was hit back and returned to the shooter as if its trajectory was reversed. It collided on the [Zarava]¡¯s right shoulder plate, blowing it away exposing the hydraulic cylinder inside. ¡°You¡­.Monster!¡± However, the [Zarava] is still operable. More importantly, Nora still did not lose her will to fight. She stepped on the foot pedal and plunged herself into the cloud of black smoke. ¡°You really are the best!¡± Kisei welcomed her charge with joy. He throws his photon saber straight up to the air while avoiding the muzzle of the blaster magnum that comes straight toward him with minimal movement. Then, after parrying away the other magnum with his bayonet, he slammed a spare magazine into his rifle. ¡°That¡¯s a mistake!¡± Nora smiles as she activates the anchor on the right foot. Even though she is inside a smoke screen, she can still vaguely sense her target at close range. Since she had many opportunities to fight in this kind of situation, both in training and combat, she has enough experience to put up a proper fight even when she has poor visibility. ¡°TAKE THIS!!¡± The sudden break causes her striker to lose balance. However, that was intentional. Using the centrifugal force, she is performing a kick at [Caliburn-Revive]. ¡°Woah!¡± Kisei backstepped and avoided the kick but Nora¡¯s attack was still not over. Using the momentum, she swung her magnum around and pointed its muzzle at him with a flowing movement. ¡°You are fast, but!¡± Kisei kicked the ground. While avoiding Nora¡¯s shot with a high jump which was made possible by the asteroid¡¯s weak gravity, he recovered his photon saber which he threw up earlier with a wire gun. ¡°That¡¯s still not enough!¡± The [Zarava] was about to jump up in pursuit but before it could, Kisei fired his thruster and landed back on the surface. ¡°Kuh!¡± Nora reflexively turned her magnum toward the place he¡¯s landing to make use of the landing momentum to land her shot but she hesitated when she saw the gleam of the green condensed particles blade through the fading smoke screen. She realized that shooting at him without pre-planning will only turn out badly for her instead. ¡°I have to shoot him from a distance that he won¡¯t be able to swing his sword¡­..!¡± Muttered so, she floored the foot pedal and rapidly accelerated. At the same time, she operates the console panel of the [Zarava]¡¯s grenade launcher to switch the smoke grenade round to AP round. ¡°That¡¯s more like it!¡± Kisei fires his blaster rifle toward the [Zarava] which is closing in on him at the speed of a bullet. ¡°You can¡¯t take down my [Zarava] with that much firepower [DESUYO]!!¡± However, Nora did not move to avoid his shot. The beam impacted the abdominal armor of the [Zarava] and disappeared after bursting on the armor plate. Although the paint was burnt and white smoke can be seen rising from the armor surface, the shot did not penetrate it. Its defense is quite extraordinary. ¡°Come at me however you want! Hahaha!¡± He doesn¡¯t have time to shoot the second shot. In an instant, the distance between the [Caliburn-Revive] and the [Zarava] was so close that even small scratches on their armor plate could be seen. Nora then nimbly swung her magnum like a dagger. However, instead of a slash, what came at Kisei was a beam. ¡°Haha, So fast!¡± The distance is too close for him to use the bayonet on his rifle. The beam fired from the magnum in the [Zarava]¡¯s left hand was evaded by backstepping while another one that was fired from the magnum in the right hand was deflected away by the photon saber. A thick beam was only several dozens of centimeters away from the armor plate as it flew past and the white paint on the [Caliburn-Revive] turned bubbly via the heat from the scattered particles. ¡°That¡¯s not all [DESUYO]!¡± Nora¡¯s finger pulls the trigger. This time it was her grenade launcher. However, at the same time, the two machine guns mounted on top of the [Caliburn-Revive]¡¯s head also started firing. An explosion occurs on the chest of the [Zarava] as the shell was shot down the moment it was fired. ¡°Ugh!?¡± The tremor hit the cockpit and Nora was disoriented for a moment. Unable to miss that opening, Kisei holds the grip of the photon saber and unleashes a straight punch at the [Zarava]. ¡°Damn¡­..you!¡± Seeing the glowing black stakes attached on the [Caliburn-Revive]¡¯s arm, Nora shifted the body of her striker down to avoid a direct hit. The aim of the pile bunker which was supposed to pierce the abdomen of the [Zarava] has deviated and it instead pierced the base of the [Zarava]¡¯s left shoulder. ¡°AHH!?¡± The left arm was completely blown away, as the hand still held onto a blaster magnum. At the same time, hydraulic oil burst out and soil the armor of the two strikers. ¡°But¡­..I got you now!¡± In front of Nora is the defenseless [Caliburn-Revive] with its arms outstretched. At this distance, avoiding an attack from her should be extremely difficult. ¡°THIS IS THE END [DESU]!¡± Using that moment, Nora swung down the magnum in the remaining right hand. At this distance, using the bayonet¡¯s blade on her magnum should be faster than firing it as a gun. ¡°And why do you think I will let you do that!?¡± However, Kisei also anticipated this attack. He threw away his rifle and saber and received the bayonet with both hands. A strong impact from the collision of metal hit the cockpits of both machines. ¡°Tsk!¡± Kisei clicked his tongue as the warning alarm pierced his ears. An abnormal amount of pressure is building up due to the hydraulic overload. Both arms of the [Caliburn-Revive] are making creaking noises. ¡°This is just the power of one arm!?¡± The [Caliburn-Revive] was completely pushed back by the abnormal strength of the [Zarava]. The tachometer is already pointing in the red one and even though the engine is loudly revving up, the blade is still approaching him. The other party¡¯s probably trying to rely on this and push through with brute force as well. ¡°Blame your defeat on that shabby Calencian striker¡­¡­.!¡± ¡°You think I¡¯d lose!?¡± Kisei¡¯s finger pulled the trigger. The machine guns mounted on the [Caliburn-Revive]¡¯s head fired at the [Zarava]¡¯s main camera. At the same time, he also relaxed the strength in the [Caliburn-Revive]¡¯s legs. ¡°Wha!?¡± The next moment, the [Zarava] was flying through the air. Nora only realized that she was thrown when the [Zarava] collided with a large rock which completely put her striker to a stop. On the other hand, Kisei immediately retrieves his blaster rifle with his wire gun and shoots it at the armorless right shoulder before Nora could take any evasive action. The unarmored shoulder was easily blown off and the entire right arm of the [Zarava] flew away. ¡°Both arms!?¡­..Ugh! But!¡± Almost purely on reflex, she pulls the trigger of the grenade launcher, but she was mercilessly greeted with the word [[Launcher Malfunction]] displaying in red on her sub-monitor. It appeared that the launcher was damaged when Kisei intercepted her earlier shot. ¡°A,¡­..Ahh!¡± As if an ice block was fused to her spine, Nora stiffened. What she sees on the main monitor is the image of the [Caliburn-Revive] which is still mostly intact pointing the muzzle of its blaster rifle at her from a close distance. The image is extremely rough due to the damage to her main camera but that instead amplifies the horror of her situation. If she stays down like this, she will definitely be killed. The moment she realized that, Nora lost control of her bladder. Her body trembled as she sensed the unpleasant warm sensation at her crotch. ¡°¡­¡­it seems someone came to pick you up.¡± However, the moment she heard that casual voice, the [Caliburn-Revive] lowered its rifle. At the same time, a black-gold striker armed with a lance landed between the two strikers. ¡°Sergeant Major Nora, are you okay?¡± ¡°Y, Your Highness.¡± It was Valentina¡¯s Zenith, the [Ortho-Kratzer]. Without relaxing her guard, Valentina kept the muzzle of the blaster gun on the tip of her lance toward Kisei. ¡°We¡¯ve rescued the Major General. Your mission is complete, let¡¯s withdraw.¡± Originally, Nora¡¯s mission was to stall Kisei. Using that opening, Valentina led a squad through the blockade and recovered the pilot of the [Valizer]. Since the pilot holds the rank of a major general(TLN: can be count as a commanding officer), she could be tried as a war criminal under the Calencian law if she was taken as POW. After all, the Nored empire had been slaughtering civilians in this conflict. ¡°¡­¡­understood.¡± With his muzzle lowered, it appeared that Kisei did not intend to prevent their retreat. Nora manages to stand up and take off without using the missing arms. Valentina also left immediately after Nora flew off. Around Kisei, there are no longer Noredian soldiers. It appears that they have already withdrawn ahead. ¡°Damn it¡­¡­¡± While glancing back at the asteroid which is getting smaller and smaller, Nora swore. There were tears in her eyes. the feeling of cold urine soaking her crotch and the relief that she managed to survive made it feel even worse. This is the first time since she was born that she suffered this kind of humiliation. ¡°Damn you! Unforgivable! Next time you are dead!¡± Nora shouted with large beads of tear spilled from her eyes while messing up her red-tinted gray short hair. ¡°Absolutely unforgivable¡­¡­.!¡± CH 72 The Roar of Heaven 3 ¡°WHO-!¡± Inside the black cloud of smoke, a green blade was swung up. The crimson beam that came flying toward Kisei was then batted away like a baseball. ¡°-DO YOU THINK I AM!¡± The beam was hit back and returned to the shooter as if its trajectory was reversed. It collided on the [Zarava]¡¯s right shoulder plate, blowing it away exposing the hydraulic cylinder inside. ¡°You¡­.Monster!¡± However, the [Zarava] is still operable. More importantly, Nora still did not lose her will to fight. She stepped on the foot pedal and plunged herself into the cloud of black smoke. ¡°You really are the best!¡± Kisei welcomed her charge with joy. He throws his photon saber straight up to the air while avoiding the muzzle of the blaster magnum that comes straight toward him with minimal movement. Then, after parrying away the other magnum with his bayonet, he slammed a spare magazine into his rifle. ¡°That¡¯s a mistake!¡± Nora smiles as she activates the anchor on the right foot. Even though she is inside a smoke screen, she can still vaguely sense her target at close range. Since she had many opportunities to fight in this kind of situation, both in training and combat, she has enough experience to put up a proper fight even when she has poor visibility. ¡°TAKE THIS!!¡± The sudden break causes her striker to lose balance. However, that was intentional. Using the centrifugal force, she is performing a kick at [Caliburn-Revive]. ¡°Woah!¡± Kisei backstepped and avoided the kick but Nora¡¯s attack was still not over. Using the momentum, she swung her magnum around and pointed its muzzle at him with a flowing movement. ¡°You are fast, but!¡± Kisei kicked the ground. While avoiding Nora¡¯s shot with a high jump which was made possible by the asteroid¡¯s weak gravity, he recovered his photon saber which he threw up earlier with a wire gun. ¡°That¡¯s still not enough!¡± The [Zarava] was about to jump up in pursuit but before it could, Kisei fired his thruster and landed back on the surface. ¡°Kuh!¡± Nora reflexively turned her magnum toward the place he¡¯s landing to make use of the landing momentum to land her shot but she hesitated when she saw the gleam of the green condensed particles blade through the fading smoke screen. She realized that shooting at him without pre-planning will only turn out badly for her instead. ¡°I have to shoot him from a distance that he won¡¯t be able to swing his sword¡­..!¡± Muttered so, she floored the foot pedal and rapidly accelerated. At the same time, she operates the console panel of the [Zarava]¡¯s grenade launcher to switch the smoke grenade round to AP round. ¡°That¡¯s more like it!¡± Kisei fires his blaster rifle toward the [Zarava] which is closing in on him at the speed of a bullet. ¡°You can¡¯t take down my [Zarava] with that much firepower [DESUYO]!!¡± However, Nora did not move to avoid his shot. The beam impacted the abdominal armor of the [Zarava] and disappeared after bursting on the armor plate. Although the paint was burnt and white smoke can be seen rising from the armor surface, the shot did not penetrate it. Its defense is quite extraordinary. ¡°Come at me however you want! Hahaha!¡± He doesn¡¯t have time to shoot the second shot. In an instant, the distance between the [Caliburn-Revive] and the [Zarava] was so close that even small scratches on their armor plate could be seen. Nora then nimbly swung her magnum like a dagger. However, instead of a slash, what came at Kisei was a beam. ¡°Haha, So fast!¡± The distance is too close for him to use the bayonet on his rifle. The beam fired from the magnum in the [Zarava]¡¯s left hand was evaded by backstepping while another one that was fired from the magnum in the right hand was deflected away by the photon saber. A thick beam was only several dozens of centimeters away from the armor plate as it flew past and the white paint on the [Caliburn-Revive] turned bubbly via the heat from the scattered particles. ¡°That¡¯s not all [DESUYO]!¡± Nora¡¯s finger pulls the trigger. This time it was her grenade launcher. However, at the same time, the two machine guns mounted on top of the [Caliburn-Revive]¡¯s head also started firing. An explosion occurs on the chest of the [Zarava] as the shell was shot down the moment it was fired. ¡°Ugh!?¡± The tremor hit the cockpit and Nora was disoriented for a moment. Unable to miss that opening, Kisei holds the grip of the photon saber and unleashes a straight punch at the [Zarava]. ¡°Damn¡­..you!¡± Seeing the glowing black stakes attached on the [Caliburn-Revive]¡¯s arm, Nora shifted the body of her striker down to avoid a direct hit. The aim of the pile bunker which was supposed to pierce the abdomen of the [Zarava] has deviated and it instead pierced the base of the [Zarava]¡¯s left shoulder. ¡°AHH!?¡± The left arm was completely blown away, as the hand still held onto a blaster magnum. At the same time, hydraulic oil burst out and soil the armor of the two strikers. ¡°But¡­..I got you now!¡± In front of Nora is the defenseless [Caliburn-Revive] with its arms outstretched. At this distance, avoiding an attack from her should be extremely difficult. ¡°THIS IS THE END [DESU]!¡± Using that moment, Nora swung down the magnum in the remaining right hand. At this distance, using the bayonet¡¯s blade on her magnum should be faster than firing it as a gun. ¡°And why do you think I will let you do that!?¡± However, Kisei also anticipated this attack. He threw away his rifle and saber and received the bayonet with both hands. A strong impact from the collision of metal hit the cockpits of both machines. ¡°Tsk!¡± Kisei clicked his tongue as the warning alarm pierced his ears. An abnormal amount of pressure is building up due to the hydraulic overload. Both arms of the [Caliburn-Revive] are making creaking noises. ¡°This is just the power of one arm!?¡± The [Caliburn-Revive] was completely pushed back by the abnormal strength of the [Zarava]. The tachometer is already pointing in the red one and even though the engine is loudly revving up, the blade is still approaching him. The other party¡¯s probably trying to rely on this and push through with brute force as well. ¡°Blame your defeat on that shabby Calencian striker¡­¡­.!¡± ¡°You think I¡¯d lose!?¡± Kisei¡¯s finger pulled the trigger. The machine guns mounted on the [Caliburn-Revive]¡¯s head fired at the [Zarava]¡¯s main camera. At the same time, he also relaxed the strength in the [Caliburn-Revive]¡¯s legs. ¡°Wha!?¡± The next moment, the [Zarava] was flying through the air. Nora only realized that she was thrown when the [Zarava] collided with a large rock which completely put her striker to a stop. On the other hand, Kisei immediately retrieves his blaster rifle with his wire gun and shoots it at the armorless right shoulder before Nora could take any evasive action. The unarmored shoulder was easily blown off and the entire right arm of the [Zarava] flew away. ¡°Both arms!?¡­..Ugh! But!¡± Almost purely on reflex, she pulls the trigger of the grenade launcher, but she was mercilessly greeted with the word [[Launcher Malfunction]] displaying in red on her sub-monitor. It appeared that the launcher was damaged when Kisei intercepted her earlier shot. ¡°A,¡­..Ahh!¡± As if an ice block was fused to her spine, Nora stiffened. What she sees on the main monitor is the image of the [Caliburn-Revive] which is still mostly intact pointing the muzzle of its blaster rifle at her from a close distance. The image is extremely rough due to the damage to her main camera but that instead amplifies the horror of her situation. If she stays down like this, she will definitely be killed. The moment she realized that, Nora lost control of her bladder. Her body trembled as she sensed the unpleasant warm sensation at her crotch. ¡°¡­¡­it seems someone came to pick you up.¡± However, the moment she heard that casual voice, the [Caliburn-Revive] lowered its rifle. At the same time, a black-gold striker armed with a lance landed between the two strikers. ¡°Sergeant Major Nora, are you okay?¡± ¡°Y, Your Highness.¡± It was Valentina¡¯s Zenith, the [Ortho-Kratzer]. Without relaxing her guard, Valentina kept the muzzle of the blaster gun on the tip of her lance toward Kisei. ¡°We¡¯ve rescued the Major General. Your mission is complete, let¡¯s withdraw.¡± Originally, Nora¡¯s mission was to stall Kisei. Using that opening, Valentina led a squad through the blockade and recovered the pilot of the [Valizer]. Since the pilot holds the rank of a major general(TLN: can be count as a commanding officer), she could be tried as a war criminal under the Calencian law if she was taken as POW. After all, the Nored empire had been slaughtering civilians in this conflict. ¡°¡­¡­understood.¡± With his muzzle lowered, it appeared that Kisei did not intend to prevent their retreat. Nora manages to stand up and take off without using the missing arms. Valentina also left immediately after Nora flew off. Around Kisei, there are no longer Noredian soldiers. It appears that they have already withdrawn ahead. ¡°Damn it¡­¡­¡± While glancing back at the asteroid which is getting smaller and smaller, Nora swore. There were tears in her eyes. the feeling of cold urine soaking her crotch and the relief that she managed to survive made it feel even worse. This is the first time since she was born that she suffered this kind of humiliation. ¡°Damn you! Unforgivable! Next time you are dead!¡± Nora shouted with large beads of tear spilled from her eyes while messing up her red-tinted gray short hair. ¡°Absolutely unforgivable¡­¡­.!¡± CH 73 The Four Heavenly Meeting 2 Inside a small conference room onboard the flagship of the Nored Empire¡¯s Calencian Expeditionary Fleet, the [Odelvansen]. An unpleasant silence continued to hang over the room where the 4 ace pilots of the Nored Empire, nicknamed the [4 Heavenly] gathered. ¡°¡­¡­.¡± The tall beauty nicknamed the [Heavenly Blade], Tersis seems to be thinking about something as she gazes silently into the air. The [Heavenly Eye], Liren who was the most depressed until earlier is now writing something on a paper with her face deep blue. And the person who brought about this silence herself, Nora, the [Heavenly Roar] is bearing a moody expression as she sits in the corner of the room. ¡°C, can we chat a bit, Nora-chan.¡± It was Eleanor the aristocrat who bears the title of the [Heavenly Thunder] who broke that heavy atmosphere. She walks up to Nora and speaks to her with a stiff smile. ¡°¡­..what [DESU]?¡± Nora replied with an unfriendly attitude. She is only 14 years old, the youngest among the 4 Heavenly. Moreover, she looks even younger thanks to her natural babyface. Her appearance is rather cute but the intimidation she¡¯s giving off right now is like a wild beast disproportionate to her age. ¡°Are you doing okay? Did you get any injuries?¡± Eleanor knew from the report that Nora did not suffer any injury but she pretends not to know and asks her that on purpose. After all, she can¡¯t find anything to start a conversation with. ¡°Ha? Injury?¡± Nora¡¯s mouth narrowed into a straight line. ¡°Not at all [DESU]. I¡¯m perfectly fine [DESU]! YEAH!¡± Eleanor was taken aback by Nora who suddenly started being so upbeat. However, Nora continued without minding that. ¡°Thinking back on it now, that man had been trying to attack the cockpit with all his might [DESUYO]! It was like he was saying that he can beat me even with a handicap! HaHAHAHAhAhAhA!! That¡¯s so funny don¡¯t you think!!¡± As if she tried to compensate for her earlier silence, Nora said so in a loud voice. However, Eleanor caught something that she can¡¯t possibly let go so she grabbed Nora on both of her shoulders before interrogating her. ¡°A man!? The mercenary from the report is a man!?¡± ¡°He¡¯s a man alright! It¡¯s a little hard to tell from his voice alone but it¡¯s clear from how he talks. Either that or he¡¯s gay¡ª¡­..nah, impossible.¡± ¡°A man being a mercenary¡­¡­how ungraceful¡­..¡± ¡°It¡¯s a widely known rumor that the [Wicked Star] is a man. Are you stupid?¡± Liren who¡¯s still writing something with her pen coldly said that to Eleanor. On the other hand, Eleanor simply smiles and shrugs it off. ¡°I have said this several times already before¡­¡­rumors of a lowly mercenary aren¡¯t worth my time.¡± Liren sighs at Eleanor¡¯s casual attitude. ¡°And rest assured, both of you. This Eleanor Al Fafleta will be the one who defeat the [Wicked Star].¡± With a confident look, Eleanor forms a fist with her white-gloved hands. Seeing her smug attitude, Liren coldly gazes at her again. ¡°A man soiling a woman¡¯s profession warrants a punishment. I will catch him alive and re-educate him myself. I will definitely make a fine gentleman out of him, fufufu.¡± ¡°Ha? What are you talking about? I¡¯m the one who¡¯s going to beat him [DESU].¡± Nora immediately protested as she kicked her chair and stood up. ¡°I will regain my honor with my own hands! That¡¯s my way [DESU]!¡± ¡°Hmph, someone who¡¯s already lost should just step back. Next time you might not get so lucky you know.¡± ¡°HAAAA!? Who lost!? It was just a strategic retreat [DESU]!?¡± ¡°O HO HO HO, a loser sure barks louder don¡¯t you think.¡± As the two started picking a fight with each other, Tersis soundlessly got between them. Unable to sense her presence at all, the two were taken by surprise. ¡°That¡¯s it. No good comes from a conflict between allies.¡± ¡°Tsk¡­..¡± Nora clicked her tongue and turned away from Tersis who reprimanded them in a cold voice. ¡°More importantly, Lady Nora. I¡¯m sorry but if you don¡¯t mind¡­¡­..can you tell me more about the battle you had with the [Wicked Star]?¡± ¡°That¡¯s right, that¡¯s right! I want to hear about it too!!¡± Eleanor jumps up and down behind Tersis to support her. Her plump breast shakes up and down each time. ¡°I know that you do not want to talk much about it but¡­¡­please.¡± While ignoring Eleanor, Tersis bowed and asked. Nora involuntarily pursed her lips but she immediately sighed and comply with Tersis¡¯s request. ¡°Haa¡­..well, fine [DESU].¡± ¡°Sorry.¡± Tersis smiled and sat down on the chair right next to Nora. Eleanor also sits down across from her with a nonchalant expression. Seeing that, Nora silently stood up and moved a seat away from Eleanor. ¡°Still, it¡¯s not like I fought him for that long¡­¡­I don¡¯t really have much to say [DESU].¡± Nora says as she crosses her arms in front of her almost completely vertical chest. In reply, Tersis nodded silently at her. ¡°When it comes to an Ace Pilot, there are the types who are capable of making swift decisions, those who are extremely good at specific weapons like swords or guns¡­¡­.usually it¡¯s those types that we encounter. But he¡­..[Wicked Star] does not belong to those types at all.¡± ¡°Hou, then what¡¯s he like?¡± ¡°It¡¯s simple [DESU]. Your attack will never land, but his attacks always will. That¡¯s all [DESU].¡± ¡°Nn?¡± Unable to understand what she meant, Tersis tilted her head. ¡°He¡¯s very skilled at evasion and the accuracy of his attack was extremely high¡­¡­.is that what you wanted to say?¡± ¡°That¡¯s not it. It¡¯s not something lukewarm like that. No matter what kind of attack I make, it simply did not land at all! Moreover, every shot he takes will definitely hit you! It wouldn¡¯t surprise me if someone told me he¡¯s using magic or psychic power, you know.¡± ¡°That¡¯s the [Wicked Star]. No matter who saw him on the battlefield, they will be shot down without question. It¡¯s meaningless to resist.¡± Liren supported Nora¡¯s words. She then put the paper she wrote something on into an envelope and put it into her pocket before continuing. ¡°This is not the question of being weak or strong. He¡¯s¨Clike a god on the battlefield. It¡¯s foolish to go against him.¡± ¡°Seriously, what are you all worried so much about ladies! It¡¯s only worsening our morale to hear useless things like that you know!¡± ¡°I agree. I¡¯m sorry but speaking only about his ability will not lead us to a strategy to take him down.¡± Although it was unusual for Tersis and Eleanor to see eye to eye, Nora and Liren sighed at the same time. They were in sync so much that both Nora and Liren paused and stared at each other. ¡°Don¡¯t tell me, Liren-san too¡­¡­?¡± Seeing her attitude so far, Nora can¡¯t help but think that Liren has also fought the [Wicked Star] before. However, Liren shakes her head sideways with an indescribable expression on her face. ¡°¡­¡­No comment.¡± ¡°Anyway! Tell me more about him first. We will discuss this more after that.¡± Tersis interrupts the conversation between the two. Her tone was strong and strangely, she sounded happy. When Nora gazed back at her with a doubtful look, it appeared like Tersis couldn¡¯t hold in her excitement. ¡°Damn battle junkie¡­¡­.¡± ¡°Is that a problem?¡± Suddenly, the door to the conference room was opened. The eyes of the four immediately turned toward the door. There, the person in charge of the Calencian Expeditionary Fleet¡­¡­.Diaroze herself was there. ¡°Thanks for the wait, Ladies.¡± Diaroze said so with a grin. ¡°Now then, let us start our strategy meeting.¡± CH 74 The Four Heavenly Meeting 3 ¡°Well then, I will explain the general placement of our army first.¡± Diaroze stated while bringing up the star chart on the large screen in the conference room. The four all listen seriously to her briefing. Since this is important enough to make Diaroze think that she needs to brief them herself, they might fall victim to her electromagnetic whip if they do not pay attention. ¡°The goal of those Calencian dogs is simple. To take back the Senstera system.¡± With a confident look, Diaroze uses her pointer to show the four the star system in question on the star chart. ¡°This system is our logistical key point. If they take control over this position the movement of our army will be greatly restricted. Not to mention that if we handle this poorly, we might not have a route to escape back to our homeland.¡± ¡°Speaking of the Senstera system, it is famous for rare metals that are used in armor plate production, correct?¡± ¡°Umu. The rare metals mined here are one of Calencia¡¯s main sources of income. Well, I would want to take this place back too if I were them.¡± Diaroze replied. The mines in the Senstera system have already been started up again by the Nored Empire. Everything they mine has been shipped back to the arsenal in their homeland. In that regard, this system is a territory that the Nored Empire doesn¡¯t want to let go of. ¡°That¡¯s why this system is our precious bait. We will thin their number with our strikers and assault fleets first while our main fleet will confront theirs at one of the habitable planets in the Senstera system¡­¡­.this Senstera Prime.¡± ¡°We are going for a planetary battle? That¡¯s interesting.¡± Tersis grins with her arms crossed. Diaroze raised her eyebrows at how she worded it but Tersis is the daughter of one of the most trusted aristocratic houses in the Nored Empire. Although she herself came from the Imperial Family, she can¡¯t complain much about her attitude. Thus, she cleared her throat and continued the briefing. ¡°We have already stationed an army on Senstera Prime. The defense there consisted of strikers, multi-legged tanks, and submarines.¡± The fact that they were on the invading side played a large part in their defeat at Leboir. Diaroze¡¯s current strategy is to reverse offense and defense and reproduce Leboir for their side. ¡°Well, this matter doesn¡¯t concern you ladies. After all, I¡¯m not going to task you to squash such small flies.¡± ¡°So, as I thought.¡± ¡°Correct. You all will deal with that mercenary.¡± Diaroze¡¯s reply was as the four anticipated. Tersis and Nora look like they are raring to go while Nora seems indifferent. However, Liren silently took the envelope out from her pocket and handed it to Diaroze. ¡°Ha? What is this?¡± To Diaroze who asked that with an expression filled with suspicion, Liren replied with a tense smile. ¡°A resignation letter. Please allow me to quit the Nored army today.¡± ¡°Ha!?¡± Diaroze¡¯s mouse unintentionally hung open while Nora mumbled [This is the first time I see that woman smiles] to herself. ¡°Why!? Why now!? Depending on your answer, the penalty for this will not be light you know!!¡± ¡°I don¡¯t want to fight the [Wicked Star].¡± Diaroze silently took out her favorite whip. She then pressed the button on its grip and crackling noise came out along with an electric spark. ¡°Do you mind repeating that, Nn?¡± ¡°¡­¡­.¡± Instead of answering that question, Liren started running. ¡°Ah, come back here!¡± However, she was grabbed by Eleanor from behind. Liren tries to break free but Eleanor exerts a superhuman strength that doesn¡¯t suit her appearance and forcibly pushes her down. ¡°Your Highness! This person still lacks the awareness of one of the 4 Heavenly! Please instill it into her with your whip!¡± ¡°Eh.¡± ¡°Now, quickly!¡± Diaroze was confused by the sudden request. However, thanks to Eleanor¡¯s urging she reluctantly set the power of her whip to the minimum with the knob on the grip and lash Liren with it. As a result, a high-voltage current assault both Liren and Eleanor who was holding her down and the two screamed at the same time. ¡°ABABABABABABA¡­¡­¡­.¡± ¡°Is she actually an idiot [DESUKANE]?¡± Nora sighed at Eleanor whose eyes rolled up to the back of her head. ¡°A, Anyway! It would trouble us if you are not going to do your job! I do not accept your resignation. If you choose to escape then you will be met by my firing squad even before you get to see the enemy! Are we clear!¡± ¡°No way.¡± Liren is now half-crying but if Diaroze said that much then she really has no way to escape. That¡¯s why she obediently went back to her seat. ¡°Well, you don¡¯t have to worry [DESU]. I will defeat him myself [DESU]. You won¡¯t get your turn, Liren-san.¡± Nora folded her arms and started so with a smile. It appeared that she regained her confidence after seeing Liren¡¯s earlier pitiful appearance. ¡°Woah, wait a minute there. If we are talking turns here then the next one should be mine right.¡± ¡°Are you intending to rob me of my prey? I won¡¯t back down even if it¡¯s for Tersis-san you know?¡± ¡°Wait wait.¡± Diaroze stopped the two who started saying whatever they wanted. ¡°To take him¡­¡­to take Hokuto Kisei, all four of you will work together and take him down. His skill is abnormal. We can not afford to let you do something stupid like fighting him one by one.¡± In her argument, Nora has already challenged him alone and was completely defeated. That¡¯s why Diaroze doesn¡¯t even consider having the Four Heavenly taking turns and fighting him one by one. ¡°He is often accompanied by two Zeniths but I will split them up using my protege unit. It will be 4 against 1. This is a battle that we can¡¯t afford to lose so I am going with this lineup.¡± ¡°Pl, please wait a minute, Your Highness! Are you asking us to commit such an unchivalrous act!?¡± ¡°What good can chivalry do against a walking disaster like him!¡± ¡°No way.¡± Tersis tried to argue back but faster than she could, Liren put a nasty smile on her face and spoke to Diaroze. ¡°I¡¯ve heard rumors that the [Wicked Star] has been on your mind, Your Highness. If you want to go at him with this lineup then there¡¯s a good chance that he won¡¯t survive the battle. If that¡¯s the case then Your Highness¡¯s feeling won¡¯t be answered you know.¡± Half of her words were intended as sarcasm but the other half was to convince Diaroze to not let her fight Kisei. ¡°W, Wha!?¡± To that unexpected counterattack, Diaroze¡¯s cheeks turned bright red. She then poutily turned away while sweating a little. ¡°Do you think there would be a person who¡¯s foolish enough to fall in love with a person they never met? I am only trying to teach that man his place as a man¡­¡­..¡± With that said, Diaroze shook her head. After all, this is not the time to talk about this. ¡°L, Leaving that aside! If he¡¯s an opponent that can be killed so easily then I wouldn¡¯t have a headache about him for so long! He will surely come back at us even more strongly than before!¡± ¡°Certainly.¡± ¡°That¡¯s where you are agreeing with her [DESUKA]¡­¡­.?¡± Seeing Liren agreed with Diaroze so wholeheartedly, Nora muttered. ¡°Is that not the case? Right now we are going with the strategy that gives us the highest chance of winning. Listen carefully, I will go into the details now.¡± While slapping her face which became hotter and hotter with both of her hands, Diaroze continued the briefing. CH 75 A Rush Job ¡°It¡¯s done! It¡¯s finally done! I¡¯m so tired.¡± The Chief Mechanic whose face was blackened with grease and dust shouted. In front of her lies a big drum-like machine with a thick cable connected to it. ¡°It¡¯s done! Extra large-sized magazine for blaster rifles! You can easily fire 120 rounds straight without reloading with this thing! WaHaHaHaHa!!¡± Perhaps because she has been working on this all night, one can catch a glimpse of madness from the Chief Mechanic¡¯s laughter. Standing right beside her, Kisei starts breaking out in cold sweat as he smiled at her. ¡°S, sorry for the unreasonable request.¡± ¡°It¡¯s okay! All I did was modifying the particle cartridge for a battleship¡¯s turret. It¡¯s no big deal.¡± Seeing the fatigue from her expression, Kisei can¡¯t help but apologize for the trouble he put her through. The Chief Mechanic seems quite proud of her work but the modification was performed with limited supply and under such a tight window of time where battle could start at any moment. It¡¯s easy to imagine how tough it was for her. ¡°Seriously, thank you for this. This will help my fight go a lot easier.¡± Kisei lightly exhales. The reason why he made such an unreasonable request for this extra-large magazine was the appearance of the [Heavenly Roar]¡­¡­.an opponent who he found himself struggling more than expected against in the previous operation. Against such an opponent, even the momentary opening he exposes when reloading his weapon can be fatal. ¡°But did you not shoot down the [Heavenly Roar] in the last operation? Do you think that there will be more enemies like her coming?¡± A young mechanic with dark eye bags said as she stared at him. When it comes to the [Heavenly Roar], her reputation as a pilot reaches even countries that are far away from the Nored Empire. Perhaps excited about the fact that she is now standing in front of the person who repelled such a famous pilot, the young mechanic¡¯s body is strangely close to Kisei. Still, seeing the young mechanic gradually creeping closer to Kisei, Saki who was sitting nearby stared her down and stopped her advance. ¡°That was just them testing the water. That¡¯s why they withdrew when we pushed back. The next time won¡¯t be so easy.¡± Kisei replied with a battle junkie grin. In response to Kisei¡¯s subtly excited voice, Saki¡¯s expression turned to a frown. ¡°Oi Oi, you are saying that more of those 4 Heavenly are coming? The Calencian front is not that important to their country, you know. Why would such a big shot like them be here¡­..¡± ¡°It seems that their commander regarded me quite highly. It wouldn¡¯t be weird if she tries to throw everything she has at me right.¡± ¡°Speaking of it now, it seems that you did quite a number on them at Leboir huh¡­¡­.¡± Recalling the hellish battle with wave after wave after wave of enemy reinforcements, Saki¡¯s frown deepened. ¡°Certainly, it¡¯s very possible that she might resort to that kind of tactic if their commander put you into consideration. So does this means that she called that [Heavenly Roar] over as a countermeasure against you?¡± ¡°Being strong also has its downside too doesn¡¯t it. Ahh, scary, scary.¡± The Chief Mechanic shrugged. After all, it is normally unthinkable for a mere soldier to be the focus of the enemy¡¯s commander tactic. ¡°It¡¯s all good right, it just means that they are that desperate. It¡¯s more fun when both sides go all in to compete with each other right.¡± Saki¡¯s expression turned bitter at Kisei who said such a thing so happily. She stood up from the oil barrel she was sitting on and let out a deep sigh. ¡°You are playing with fire again. You won¡¯t live long with that attitude you know.¡± ¡°Killing and getting killed really are not my cup of tea though.¡± ¡°Then at least make yourself look a little more worried, come on.¡± Saki let out another sigh and walked up to Kisei to rough up his hair. She¡¯s so rough that it looks like she¡¯s petting a large dog so Kisei was surprised. ¡°I wonder if you will behave a little if I take you home.¡± Saki suddenly said that as she brought her face closer to Kisei¡¯s. Saki who is now staring at him looks just like a dignified Japanese beauty. Since Saki doesn¡¯t usually do this, it made his heart jump a little. ¡°¡­¡­..¡± However, it seems that Saki herself also feels the same as her face immediately turns bright red and gets away from him. Perhaps due to nervousness, her face was drenched in sweat. ¡°J, Just kidding! It¡¯s a joke, a joke! HaHaHaHa! Forget about it!¡± When Saki was doing that awkward laugh, a hand was placed on her shoulder. When she turned around, she was greeted by Schleer¡¯s big smile. ¡°What do you think you are doing when I wasn¡¯t looking I wonder?¡± ¡°It doesn¡¯t concern you right.¡± Saki¡¯s cold answer made her earlier awkward display seem like a lie. Her complexion had already returned to normal. The change was so sudden that Kisei started to worry from the sudden change in her blood pressure. ¡°She¡¯s not an enemy so don¡¯t start fighting now¡­¡­¡± ¡°I mean, Her Highness is kind of her enemy in a way though¡­¡­..¡± The Chief Mechanic murmured at Kisei¡¯s attempt to break the fight. Even though the power relationship between them is between a superior and her subordinate, it isn¡¯t that uncommon in Vuld culture for 2 women to start killing each other over a man. In terms of carnage, such conflicts are much bloodier than their Terran¡¯s counterparts. Still, leaving their fighting power aside, both Schleer and Saki are gentlemen¡­¡­no, both of them are Ladies, that¡¯s why they won¡¯t just start having a fistfight. That being said, if things are too tense between them it will affect Kisei as well. With that being the case, he put the most natural smile he can muster on his face and intervene. ¡°So, what are you doing here? Your Highness. Did you need something?¡± ¡°Ah, no, it¡¯s not really a big deal but¨C.¡± Seeing Kisei, Schleer¡¯s expression loosened. When Saki saw her like that she simply shrugged while the Chief Mechanic shook her head sideways. ¡°As you are aware, our next operation will take place on a habitable planet. That¡¯s why I¡¯m here to check if our strikers¡¯ equipment has been changed for ground warfare.¡± Strikers are a weapon that can fight anywhere from land, air, to outer space. However, their combat power can be improved if they are equipped with equipment specific to the combat environment. That¡¯s why leaving aside the fleet escort strikers, Schleer has ordered for all strikers to be equipped with the ground warfare option. ¡°AH!?¡± Recalling her order, the Chief Mechanic screamed. The [Caliburn-Revive] which is now docked on the maintenance hangar still doesn¡¯t look any different from usual. It appears that it was still not equipped with ground warfare equipment at all. ¡°I, I¡¯ll get to it now, Your Highness!¡± ¡°Eh, we are only 48 hours away from landing, you know!?¡± ¡°I will make it!¡± Kisei got a little panicked at the Chief Mechanic¡¯s desperate scream. It was his fault that she forgot to do this. That¡¯s why he can¡¯t afford her to get into any more trouble because of him. ¡°It¡¯s okay, I should be able to do just fine with this equipment¡­¡­.¡± Perhaps getting some ideas of what¡¯s going on from the look of the three, Schleer operated her tablet device with a troubled expression. After she gets some kind of confirmation, she continues. ¡°¡­..It can¡¯t be helped, I will leave the modification to the free personnel. You three should get some rest.¡± CH 76 The Chief of Staff ¡°Once we land, this battle is as good as ours. Do not let the enemy get close to us!¡± Several Calencian ships are descending through the atmosphere of Senstera Prime with red tails behind them produced from adiabatic compression. The scene looks like a meteor shower. As they descend, the AA guns of these warships are firing at the Noredian Strikers to prevent them from interrupting their descent. ¡°How many ships couldn¡¯t make it?¡± ¡°None, Your Highness. Our descent is going well.¡± On the bridge of the [Radiant] which has now become the flagship of the Calencian main fleet, Schleer asked Reit Cadenza, the chief of staff. In return, the chief of staff relaxed the tension in her wrinkled face and replied in a good mood. ¡°Once we land, our main force will take over the underground base at Point V886 and make it our forward base. With this underground base as the center, we should be able to retake our other underground bases in no time. If we can do that, Senstera Prime will be ours¡­¡­that¡¯s our main strategy for this operation.¡± ¡°We can¡¯t make any misstep at this stage, we need to take the base at V886 as soon as possible¡­¡­¡± Schleer who said that while checking the map of the area of operation was already in her pilot suit. Her personal striker is also on standby and is ready to be deployed at any time. ¡°However, most military bases we have on Senstera Prime should already be destroyed by the enemy orbital bombing. I was told that the Nored side rebuilt some of it but we still don¡¯t know to what extent they have been restored.¡± At the beginning of the war, the Senstera system was also the site of a big battle. At that time, the Calencian side was forced to retreat and their bases on Senstera Prime were destroyed by the enemy orbital bombing. The reason behind such thorough destruction was the small chance that the remnant of the Calencian army left behind on the planet will use their communication lines and supplies for their resistance. ¡°There¡¯s no need to worry, Your Highness. This time we will use their resources against them. According to the intel we received, it appears that the bases here are now performing even better than in when they are in our control.¡± The chief of staff shows an ironic smile. Originally, this planet housed one of the most important military bases in the Calencia empire. Naturally, they poured a significant amount of their financial power to build it as well¡­¡­..Recognizing the difference in their national power, Schleer has a difficult expression on her face. ¡°Well, in the end, the base here will be used against them. Since they went out of their way to improve it for us, let us thankfully use it on them.¡± ¡°Certainly.¡± Schleer agreed. If they win this battle then the Calencian side will gain a big advantage. Moreover, if they can achieve a great victory like they did in Leboir, they might be able to force the Nored side to the negotiating table, even a truce is not an impossibility. Putting strength into her hand, Schleer formed a fist and renewed her determination. ¡°Now then, let us prepare for the sortie. Your Highness, my apology but you need to be on the frontline for this battle. Please make sure that you do not get shot down.¡± ¡°And you will take the command? Seriously, I can¡¯t tell who¡¯s the leader of this operation is at all.¡± Schleer shrugged. The title of the supreme commander belongs to Schleer because she is the only member of the royal family present. She has only commanded a small fleet before so she lacks the ability to command a fleet that can be said to be the entirety of the Calencia empire¡¯s fighting power. That¡¯s why the de facto commander of this operation is Reit, the chief of staff. ¡°Being the symbol is also a part of your duty, Your Highness. The more spectacular you perform on the frontline, the higher the morale of our army will become. For a Vuld knight, you can only be recognized as a true general by leading the charge on the battlefield after all.¡± The chief of staff was neither being sarcastic or flattering, it¡¯s simply her sincere words. The chief of staff is no longer fit for the frontline due to her age and even in her younger days, she was not good enough that she could go toe to toe against enemy aristocrats. In Vuld militaristic culture, soldiers will not recognize such a person as their leader. The reason she can take command of a battlefield is that the duty was delegated to her by someone who has already exhibited their valor in front of the soldiers like Schleer. ¡°I know. Just leave it to me. This won¡¯t take much time.¡± ¡°It must have been quite hard on you since you have relegated most of the fight to that man recently. Please fight to your heart¡¯s content, Your Highness.¡± ¡°Please don¡¯t put it like that. I have been acting like it didn¡¯t affect me after all.¡± Schleer¡¯s mouth turned downward. She has been protected by a man, namely Kisei, on many occasions recently. Her pride as a (Vuld) woman is severely damaged by that. Moreover, she can¡¯t really do anything about it since she realized that Kisei possesses the ability that she can¡¯t catch up to with a hundred years of training. As long as she goes to battle with Kisei, that sense of inferiority will never go away. ¡°Still, for the time being, I intend to do what I can.¡± However, Schleer¡¯s expression is still bright. Even if she can not compete against Kisei in terms of piloting skills, she already has a goal. That¡¯s why all that matters is to just press forward to achieve it. ¡°Please do your best to make that mercenary fall for you, Your Highness. If you can form a relationship with him then I will personally see to it that you can get married.¡± To the chief of staff who said that to her with a smirk, Schleer looks back at her with an extremely serious expression. In response, the chief of staff nods back to her with a smile. It seems that she¡¯s serious. ¡°I have been with your Highness since you were a baby you know? You are like my own grandchild. Naturally, I¡¯d support your first love.¡± ¡°I¡¯m grateful.¡± Schleer cheerfully smiled at the support she received from someone she didn¡¯t expect. She then got up from her command seat. ¡°All the more reason I can¡¯t lose now. Well then, let¡¯s take back this planet.¡± ¡°Good luck, Your Highness.¡± The chief of staff bowed as Schleer left the bridge. CH 77 Assault on the Ruined City 1 Countless strikers are flying just above the sea surface which is being illuminated by the sunrise. In surface warfare, flying as low as possible to avoid enemy fire is a common practice. ¡°Kisei-san, how¡¯s the new Jet Armor working for you?¡± Schleer asked as she glanced at the [Caliburn-Revive] as she flew beside him. The chalky humanoid weapon was equipped with unfamiliar blue add-on equipment on its shoulders and legs. ¡°It¡¯s flawless. The fitting was done perfectly as well, I don¡¯t feel any discomfort at all.¡± Kisei replied in a carefree voice. This extra piece of equipment called the Jet Armor contains a thermonuclear engine that provides propulsion inside the atmosphere. Since it works by absorbing the air within the atmosphere and converting them into thrust, it technically gives you almost infinite propulsion. Naturally, it can not perform instantaneous acceleration like a standard thruster but it still gives enough power for a striker to fly at a reasonable speed within the atmosphere. That¡¯s why it is one of the must-have equipment for surface battle. ¡°More importantly, I have a question about this operation.¡± ¡°What is it?¡± ¡°The area of operation this time is an urban area, isn¡¯t it? Won¡¯t we have to worry about the civilians there?¡± Point V886, their AO used to house the largest city on Senstera Prime. Firing live rounds in such a place would inevitably cause civilian casualties. Kisei¡¯s concern on that point. ¡°The city that used to be here¡­..Rinnai III was destroyed by the enemy orbital bombing. It seems that the Nored Empire still hasn¡¯t migrated any of its citizens here¡­¡­..I think it can still be considered an almost uninhabited city ruin.¡± ¡°Ah, I see.¡± Contrary to his light tone, Kisei¡¯s expression was cloudy. He¡¯s heard that the Nored Empire has no qualm slaughtering civilians but even when he knows about it beforehand, he still can¡¯t hide his disgust. ¡°That being said, it is possible that some of our citizens may have escaped to underground shelters before the bombing. We should be on the lookout for them.¡± No matter how much the Nored Empire couldn¡¯t care less about civilians¡¯ casualties, it¡¯s impossible for them to entirely wipe out all inhabitants on the planet. There should be many survivors left on Senstera Prime. That¡¯s why taking such survivors into their protection is also a part of this operation. ¡°Well, since we don¡¯t know what we will find, there¡¯s no choice but to improvise huh.¡± ¡°We will have to be flexible, yes.¡± ¡°It¡¯s rare to hear you talk like a commander nowadays, Your Highness.¡± Saki chimed in. However, her voice did not sound sarcastic. She probably only wants to help lighten the heavy atmosphere. Understanding that, Schleer smiled and replied, [How rude]. From that point, there¡¯s nothing that could be counted as a conversation. Because this is the first major counter-offensive operation since the beginning of this war, all pilots except for Kisei¡¯s group were more or less nervous. It can¡¯t be helped that they are less talkative now. After around 10 minutes of silently flying above the sea, the shoreline finally became visible to them. ¡ª¡ª¡ª¡ª¨C ¡°They are here, it¡¯s the Calencians!¡± ¡°Shoot them down! Don¡¯t let them get close to the shore!¡± Naturally, the Nored side also placed a lot of their defense along the shoreline. A large number of strikers took off from the coast while the multi-legged tanks bombarded them. ¡ª¡ª¡ª¡ª¡ª¡ª¡ª¨C ¡°Our first objective is to eliminate the enemy in the coastal area and build a bridgehead! Clean them out before the next wave arrives!¡± ¡°Roger that!¡± In response to Schleer¡¯s command, the Calencian Striker Corps launched their attack. Countless shells and beams race through the clear early morning sky. ¡°I will start crushing their rearguard first! I¡¯m leaving my back to you!¡± Kisei shouted and accelerated forward. Seeing that, Schleer and Saki follow him. The Noredian Striker Corps launched a concentrated attack on them to prevent their advance but against 3 Zeniths, the mass-produced strikers like the [Jettas] are powerless to stop them. ¡°Go be a coral reef for a while, why don¡¯t you!¡± A shot from Kisei¡¯s blaster rifle pierced the engine of an approaching [Jetta], sinking it into the sea with a trail of black smoke. The striker which is a weapon designed for space combat is completely watertight. Even when fully submerged, the cockpit will not be flooded. All they need to do afterward is to recover the pilots they shot down as POWs. ¡°That white one, isn¡¯t it the [Wicked Star]!?¡± ¡°The one who defeated the [Heavenly Roar]? There¡¯s no way we can win against that¡­¡­¡± ¡°All eyes on Hokuto huh!¡± When the [Jetta]¡¯s pilots panicked at the sight of the [Caliburn-Revive], Saki¡¯s [Dainsleif] closed in on them like a bullet. ¡°Shi¨C!?¡± The [Jettas] try to avoid her charge but their crimson armor was cut clean off by Saki¡¯s extremely fast slash. Saki smiles ferociously inside the [Dainsleif]¡¯s cockpit. ¡°A mere [Jetta] can¡¯t possibly keep up with my [Dainsleif]!¡± While avoiding the enemy¡¯s bullets using irregular maneuvers, Saki starts slashing up the enemy one after another. Just like she said, the Noredian Striker Corp consisting of only [Jettas] was completely at the mercy of her blade. Not only that, the enemies that were distracted by Saki are also being taken down by Schleer¡¯s accurate bombardment. The number of destroyed strikers easily exceeded double digits. ¡°This combo! I wouldn¡¯t have it any other way!¡± ¡°Well, the only thing I trust about you is your fighting power after all.¡± Schleer cooly replied to the excited Saki. However, there¡¯s an invisible smile on her face. ¡°They are having fun rampaging huh.¡± Kisei said as he glanced at the number of his blaster rifle remaining rounds. He¡¯s using a normal magazine for it right now since he is saving the extra-sized magazine the Chief Mechanic made for him for the 4 Heavenly. ¡°Then this is my chance to charge in!¡± Switching to an anti-ship grenade launcher, Kisei accelerated toward the shore. The multi-legged tanks that are stationed along the shoreline opened fire at him with their main guns one after another but Kisei did not have any trouble avoiding the falling shells. While evading the bombardment, Kisei gradually approached the shore. ¡°¡­¡­¡± He can now see the ruined city with row after row of collapsed buildings. Only a glance of it made him frowned so Kisei pulled the trigger with no hesitation. The launched anti-ship missile flew with a trail of white smoke behind it and pierce into the body of a multi-legged tank. Before it exploded, the two tank crews jumped out from the inside. ¡°Let¡¯s get this over with!¡± With a loud exhalation, Kisei energetically shouted. CH 78 Assault on the Ruined City 2 There is countless wreckage of multi-legged tanks lying on the shoreline. All of them were completely disabled and some still can be seen spouting out black smoke. The scene looks almost like a large number of dead oversized crabs washed up on the shore. ¡°Hurry up with the landing!¡± ¡°Don¡¯t get scared now! A striker¡¯s attack power won¡¯t be enough to pierce the frontal armor of our tanks!¡± Meanwhile, countless multi-legged tanks are being deployed from the berthed Calencian amphibious assault ships. The multi-legged tanks possess sturdy armor and high firepower. Along with the mobility provided by their 4 pairs of legs and anti-gravity lifter which allow them to traverse any terrain, they are indispensable in ground warfare. ¡°With this, the first stage of the operation is complete. We will move on to invading the inland area now.¡± Schleer said while overseeing the situation. Almost at the same time, multiple large explosions occurred near the landing point. Although there was no direct hit, the blast from the explosion sent the multi-legged tanks flying. The landing point was quite far away from Kisei¡¯s group¡¯s location but they can even feel the shockwave from inside their cockpits. ¡°Uwah, are they going to be okay over there!?¡± ¡°T, That shouldn¡¯t be enough to kill them. I think¡­¡­¡± Kisei, who started to have cold sweat, answered Saki¡¯s panicked question. After all, the cockpit of a multi-legged tank is designed to be even more shock-resistant than a striker cockpit. ¡°That must be their mobile artillery. Their fire rate is too slow for a fortress gun.¡± The turret on the amphibious assault ships silently moves toward the enemy¡¯s direction and starts counterattacking with ferocious muzzle flashes. However, even though they roughly know the enemy¡¯s location from their counter-battery radar, the Noredian bombardment still did not stop. (TLN: Counter Battery Radar is the radar you use to see where projectiles originated from) ¡°We can¡¯t proceed with the landing like this! We need to take those artilleries out!¡± ¡°Alrighty.¡± After glancing at his fuel gauge, Kisei replied. Thanks to the Jet Armor, he still has plenty of propellants left. The three Zeniths fly toward the enemy¡¯s proximate location with a unit of [Claymores] following behind them. ¡°Her Highness is leading the charge herself?¡± ¡°As expected of our princess.¡± Hearing such words from the miscellaneous voices on the radio, Schleer¡¯s cheeks loosen. It seems that she has been doing her job well so far. ¡°Incoming interceptors, Prepare for combat!¡± Kisei¡¯s shout came in when she relaxed her guard for a moment. Focusing her mind, Schleer hurriedly re-grasps her control sticks and checks the radar. However, the radar¡¯s reading does not show any sign of the enemy. ¡°Do you think an ambush will work on me!?¡± Saying so, Kisei fired his blaster rifle at the enemy [Jetta] that jumped out from its cover behind the building and tried to shoot at them. ¡°Why did they choose to attack us now!? Their camouflage was perfect!¡± ¡°Don¡¯t think about it! Just crush them!¡± While they were confused by the enemy¡¯s ambush, the Noredian strikers appeared from all over the place and began to attack them. The ambushing unit mainly consisted of [Jettas] but heavyweight strikers that are sporting large mega-blaster-rifles can also be seen among them. ¡°It¡¯s the [Vil]! They have thick armor, be careful!¡± The heavily armored striker. [Vil], aims its mega blaster rifle toward the [Claymore] who shouted so and fired a crimson beam which is much thicker than your average shot from a regular blaster rifle. ¡°Oh no¡­..!¡± The [Claymore]¡¯s pilot was prepared for her death but a shot from Kisei¡¯s blaster rifle hit the extra-sized beam away before it made its impact. And earlier than the admiration of such godlike action of shooting down a beam can set into the [Claymore] pilot¡¯s mind, another shot from Kisei¡¯s rifle already pierced the [Vil]¡¯s engine. ¡°I, I believe in god now.¡± The pilot looked at the [Caliburn-Revive] like a subject of worship but the fact that he just saved someone has already been wiped away from Kisei¡¯s mind. ¡°Even though it has heavy armor, An 8.5Mw shot is enough to pierce it huh. It¡¯s not as troublesome as the guy from last time I guess.¡± Recalling the sturdiness of the [Zarava] that he fought against the other day, Kisei muttered in a small voice. He then kicked the ground and avoided the barrage from the enemy machine guns. The area was already surrounded completely by the enemy. In other words, they are in the middle of a crossfire. In that situation, multiple [Jettas] focus their medium machine guns at the [Caliburn-Revive]. ¡°This sound, they have large-caliber machine guns huh. They are using planetary army¡¯s equipment.¡± Unlike the sound of the submachine guns, the sound made by the medium machine guns is a heavy one that can rumble your stomach. ¡°So these guys are specialized in ground combat huh. I will have to wipe them out quickly before the damage increases then!¡± On the contrary, the Calencian side is used to space battles. It¡¯s easy to imagine that the enemy is more skilled in ground warfare from the equipment they deployed and their tactics so far. Deciding to go ahead and wipe them out, Kisei stepped on the pedal and unsheathed his photon saber. ¡°The enemy Zenith is coming! Support me!¡± ¡°How!¡± The Noredian Soldiers screamed in panic as the [Caliburn-Revive] dash toward them while swatting down bullets with its photon saber. ¡°How do we deal with something like that!¡± ¡°NO! Don¡¯t come any closer!¡± The [Jetta] which tried to escape was pierced from behind at its abdomen by the pile bunker. At the same time, a shot from Kisei¡¯s blaster rifle took down another one. ¡°That guy, that¡¯s the [Wicked Star]!¡± ¡°A, Are you kidding me¡­¡­.Uwahh!¡± The [Jettas] that were firing their machine guns at Kisei from a distance were bombarded by the [Mistilteinn]. ¡°I would be troubled if you forget that I¡¯m here too!¡± Schleer said with a grin inside her cockpit. CH 79 Assault on the Ruined City 3 A heavy armor striker, [Vil] runs through the ruined city with agile movement that does not match its sluggish appearance. Its mega blaster rifle fired at the [Caliburn-Revive]. ¡°Like hell that will hit me!¡± However, Kisei avoided the beam with minimal movement and the crimson beam pierced the reinforced concrete of an abandoned building instead. ¡°That kind of weapon can¡¯t do rapid-fire, don¡¯t you know that!¡± Unable to miss that opportunity, Ksei accelerated toward the enemy. The [Vil] tries to retreat but the [Caliburn-Revive] is faster. While skillfully moving in a way that avoids the enemy to align their mega blaster rifle, Kisei accelerated forward by using both Jet Armor and main thruster and pierce the [Vil]¡¯s engine with his pile bunker. ¡°You little!¡± The [Jetta] with a medium machine gun tried to shoot him but a kunai flew out of nowhere and pierced the gun barrel. It was Saki¡¯s [Dainsleif]. ¡°This way too!?¡± The [Jetta] hurriedly throws away the now useless machine gun but Kisei did not miss the opening. The pile bunker revved up again and the [Jetta] was skewered and slammed to the ground while spewing black oil. ¡°The help was uncalled for huh?¡± ¡°No, you saved me there!¡± Kisei replied with a smile to Saki who¡¯s currently engaging with another [Jetta] wielding a longsword. Certainly, he can avoid that shot but sudden movement like that will take a toll on his body. If he can defeat the enemy with minimal damage to his body then naturally that¡¯s a better option. Just like that, Kisei defeated the Noredian strikers one after another. After all, even the sturdier model like [Vil] is not enough to stop Zenith-type. Moreover, against Kisei, there¡¯s not much difference whether it be a [Jetta] or [Vil] in the first place. ¡°C. Captain! Please do something about this!¡± ¡°M, Me!? D, damn it¡­¡­.¡± The captain let out a deep sigh at her subordinate¡¯s request. From the point of view of the Nored side, it¡¯s unusual for them to be pushed back so badly when they were the ones who initiated the ambush. The captain doesn¡¯t think that they have a winning chance here but if she retreats now, her dignity will be damaged. That¡¯s why she has no other choice but to push on. ¡°Hey, this is Viscountess Erie Bozes! I challenge any soldier who¡¯s brave enough to give their name in single combat!¡± Hearing the captain state her name in the public channel, Kisei grinned. After all, a one-on-one fight is his favorite. ¡°Mercenary, Hokuto Kisei! [Caliburn-Revive] accept your challenge!¡± ¡°Geh!? Isn¡¯t that the [Wicked Star] himself! It¡¯s, it¡¯s all or nothing then!¡± The captain¡¯s face immediately turned blue when she realized that her opponent is someone who she can¡¯t possibly handle. However, she has no other choice. Unsheathing a bastard sword on her [Vil], she thrust full speed at the [Caliburn-Revive]. ¡°GOOOO! DO YOUR BEST CAPTAIN!¡± High pitch cheer flew from behind her but the reality is still ruthless. Her downward swing with the bastard sword was skillfully deflected by the bayonet and the pile bunker immediately pierced the [Vil]¡¯s abdomen. ¡°Uugh, just a little more¡­¡­.¡± ¡°That wasn¡¯t even close, Captain!¡± Kisei bitterly smiled at the radio chatter but his expression immediately stiffen as he looked up to the sky. ¡°INCOMING BOMBARDMENT! EVERYONE FIND COVER!¡± Kisei shouted in the public channel. While confirming that the pilots from both sides started to take cover in a hurry, Kisei flew by and grabbed the cockpit of the [Vil] he just took down. A moment later, a large number of projectiles were displayed on the radar with a jarring warning sound. Dozens of seconds later, a large number of rockets struck the ruined city. The force of the explosion was enough to blow away the [Caliburn-Revive] that was more than a hundred meters away from the point of impact. ¡°Damn it, on their own allies¡­¡­¡± Inside the shaking cockpit, Kisei clenched his teeth. Before he finished his sentence, Kisei caught something moving at the corner of his eyes. A scorched stroller was rolling on a shattered road surface. As though he just saw something unpleasant, Kisei let out a sigh and frowned. ¡°The pilot over there! Are you okay?¡± After shaking his head, Kisei calls out to the [Vil]¡¯s pilot. The striker should be disabled as long as its engine is destroyed but the radio should still function with the backup power. ¡°I, I thought I was a goner¡­..what happened?¡± ¡°That was an artillery strike from your side! They just bombarded the whole area!¡± ¡°H, how could they¡­¡­¡± The captain¡¯s face turned blue. Unable to find any reason why the Calencian would bombard their own trump card like [Kise], she finds Kisei¡¯s words to be believable. ¡°I owe you one! You saved my life! I will definitely repay this favor.¡± After saying that, the captain angrily yelled into the radio. ¡°Hey! Are you all still alive!?¡± ¡°it, it¡¯s a miracle.¡± ¡°I thought I was going to die!¡± ¡°Alright, good!¡± Thanks to Kisei¡¯s timely warning, there seems to be no casualty from the previous bombardment. The Calencian pilots also report their safety one after another. ¡°I don¡¯t know who ordered that artillery strike but we have to let them know who they are messing with! All operable units, converge on the artillery position!¡± ¡°Roger that!¡± ¡°Let¡¯s give them a bloodbath!¡± ¡°U, Uwah, you are going to betray Nored just like that?¡± When the pilots acknowledged the command so readily, Kisei was taken aback by how quick they were to turn on the Nored Empire. However, the captain simply grins and replies. ¡°We may be affiliated to the same nation but for us, different territories are like different countries! A lord who shot their subject from behind is no longer a worthy master! In this case, I am simply exercising my right as an aristocrat!¡± ¡°That¡¯s right! The Nored is just too inhumane! They are not a master worthy of your service!¡± Schleer chimed in. They may be a small unit but it will still help a lot if they defect to their side. ¡°We will provide support! Let¡¯s punish those backstabbers with the hammer of justice together!¡± ¡°OOH!¡± As the [former] Noredian soldiers got excited, cold sweat ran down Kisei¡¯s cheek. ¡°If your lord pisses you off then just betray them! That¡¯s the Vuld¡¯s way.¡± For some reason, Saki looked proud when she said that. ¡°Just how did Vulds manage to form a nation I wonder¡­¡­.¡± Kisei muttered with a mixed feeling. CH 80 The Viscountess¡¯s Terms Several hours later. Kisei¡¯s group along with Viscountess Erie Bozes and her subordinates were successful in eliminating the Noredian artillery unit. They were met with some resistance from a few strikers and multi-legged tanks but they were easily dealt with by Kisei. Moreover, with Viscountess Bozes guiding the way, they managed to find where the artillery unit¡¯s location in no time. ¡°Needless to say, ours and your empire¡¯s interests are aligned at the moment. Since we have turned our blade against the Nored Empire, my territory will not be safe unless Calencia somehow wins this war after all. Even so, do not expect us to swear our allegiance to your country unconditionally.¡± ¡°Yes, I understand that. That¡¯s why, regarding the commercial tax¡ª-¡± Kisei¡¯s group is currently resting near the battlefield where black smoke from the wreckage can still be seen. He¡¯s currently watching Schleer and Viscountess Bozes negotiating from his now opened cockpit. Viscountess Bozes immediately decided to betray the Nored Empire when they performed an artillery strike on their location but if she just proceeded like that without setting down any agreement first then she would surely suffer a loss in a long run. That¡¯s why she wants to negotiate with Schleer for some favorable terms for her defection. ¡°Being an aristocrat sure is a hassle huh.¡± Kisei said that as though the matter doesn¡¯t involve him as he fished through the luggage space in his cockpit. It¡¯s already been some time since the battle began. He¡¯s getting hungry so he¡¯s searching for some ration. ¡°Energy bar¡­..Habanero? Who put this in here? Can¡¯t be helped then¡­¡­..¡± With a grumble, Kisei took out a bowl made from cheap disposable plastic with the cover that says [Completely nutritional Vitamin Beef Bowl]. He put it in the microwave oven installed inside the cockpit and heated it up according to the instructions on its cover. ¡°I feel like I¡¯ve already eaten a lifetime¡¯s worth of beef bowls though¡­¡­..¡± Still, there¡¯s no use complaining. Thinking so, Kisei sighs and takes out the heated beef bowl. When he removed the cover, a simple beef bowl with chopped green onions and a block of synthetic meat on top of white rice could be seen inside. The beef bowl is the most popular among the many types of ration and it is also a familiar dish that reminds Kisei of home. ¡°Mogu Mogu.¡± As he eats the beef bowl with a difficult expression, his eyes were on Schleer and Viscountess Bozes who are still in the middle of a negotiation. He¡¯s not particularly interested in their conversation but right now he has nothing better to kill time with. ¡°But it was with our help that your side managed to take out the artillery so smoothly. At least I think we can say that we did help you here, correct?¡± Viscountess Bozes shook her blonde ponytail. She looks like she is in her late twenties but her appearance as she greedily negotiates her own interests truly made her seem like a real aristocrat. ¡°That is true. Then, how about we give you eight of the mobile artillery cannons we confiscated from the earlier battle?¡± ¡°No, I don¡¯t need that kind of thing. We won¡¯t be able to move well if we have to carry those cannons around after all.¡± Viscountess Bozes shakes her head sideways. She currently has about 30 strikers under her command. When it comes to aristocrats, there are both rich and poor aristocrats. It appears that Viscountess Bozes is on the poorer side. A mobile cannon needs a minimum of 2 strikers to operate. That¡¯s why she doesn¡¯t think that it would be a good idea to devote her already small number of subordinates to man such a thing. ¡°C, Can¡¯t you sell it off later?¡± ¡°Used mobile cannons¡¯ price on the market is dirt cheap you know!¡± Faced with the harsh truth, Schleer¡¯s mouth turned downward. The mobile cannons they acquired are an old-fashioned model that widely circulates in the market. It is doubtful that you can cover the price of a single [Vil] even if you sell all 8. ¡°T, Then what do you propose? We are not proud of it but we are actually quite desperate on our national budget you know!¡± ¡°I¡¯m a knight! I won¡¯t just fight for money.¡± ¡°Hou?¡± ¡°A knight only desires for two things. Honor and love! That¡¯s why I demand a kiss from [Wicked Star]-dono!¡± When the talk suddenly involved him, Kisei started choking on his food. Schleer looked worriedly at him for a moment but given what the Viscountess said, Kisei seems to have no say about this. ¡°H, How shameless! We can¡¯t possibly accept such a request!¡± ¡°Don¡¯t be stupid! Do you have any idea how rare a chance it is you can get a kiss from a cute boy like this! It¡¯s a once-in-a-lifetime chance you know! That¡¯s my demand, take it or leave it!¡± ¡°B, But.¡± ¡°I¡¯m not asking him to spend a night with me or doing the forehead kiss alright! Cheek! Just my cheek is fine! If you accept this condition I don¡¯t mind pledging my allegiance to Calencia you know!¡± ¡°We would only be troubled if you swore allegiance to us because of a stupid condition like this though!!¡± Shouted Schleer as she tries to peel off Viscountess Bozes who has already abandoned her shame and dignity and is now clinging to her. ¡°EEI, if you are going to push this request then the negotiation is over! Let me go!¡± Since the negotiation seemed to be falling apart, Kisei hurriedly shoved the rest of the contents of his bowl into his mouth and swallowed it. He then stands up and removes his seat plate. Under the seat, there was a deep circular hole. It¡¯s an excellent design that can function as both a trash chute and a toilet. After he puts the now empty bowl there, he tries to step out of the cockpit. ¡°¡­.no, for a time like this¡­..¡± Thinking about what he¡¯s going to do, he goes back inside and fish through his luggage for toothpaste. After he used it to give his mouth a quick clean-up, he jumped out of the cockpit. ¡°LET-ME-GO!!¡± ¡°PLEASE! PLEASE!¡± Viscountess Bozes was still stuck to Schleer. While being astounded by her action, Kisei helps Schleer peel her away. ¡°What are you doing, seriously.¡± ¡°I¡¯m, I¡¯m sorry.¡± Schleer apologized. However, the Viscountess immediately crouches down while staring at Kisei with a big smile. ¡°Here! Please do it here!¡± Said the Viscountess as she eagerly pointed at her right cheek. Seeing that, Kisei deeply sighed. ¡°If a kiss can make you our ally then there¡¯s no helping it. Since I¡¯m going to do it, I expect you to work hard for us okay.¡± ¡°Of course! A knight won¡¯t go back on her word!¡± The young beauty repeatedly excitedly nodded. At the moment, she looks more like a monkey in heat rather than a knight. While wondering why he has to do this, Kisei makes another sigh. ¡°K, Kisei-san! You can¡¯t!¡± Kisei turned his dull eyes toward Schleer who¡¯s trying to stop him. He then approached her and whispered directly into her ear. ¡°Just because¡ª-¡­.¡± ¡°M, my ear! Your breath! HOAAA!!?¡± Schleer jumped and began to tremble in excitement when he whispered to her ear. However, faster than she could start rambling, Kisei continued. ¡°Just because she doesn¡¯t have that many strikers under her control, we can¡¯t just waste an opportunity like this right.¡± ¡°B, But, a kiss¡­¡­.¡± ¡°I¡¯m doing this willingly so it¡¯s fine!¡± ¡°But¡­¡­¡± There¡¯s no way that she would be able to stand seeing Kisei kiss another woman. At that moment, the image of Valentina kissing Kisei came to her mind. Then, she came up with something. ¡°Th, then¡­..please kiss me later as well. On my forehead. If you do that then I won¡¯t complain.¡± ¡°Ehhh¡­¡­¡± Why¡¯s she making more demands now? Kisei groaned to himself but he also remembered that it was him who told her to be more honest with her desire. ¡°Fine, I got it. Later, alright!¡± Schleer begins to celebrate in silence. The Viscountess who sensed that the negotiations had been completed then offered her cheeks to Kisei with a joyful expression. While holding down the stomachache which is gradually growing stronger, Kisei brings his lips to her cheek with a reluctant expression. ¡°¡­¡­.this is fine ri¡ª¨C¡± ¡°ALRIGHTTTTT!!¡± Before Kisei could finish his sentence, Viscountess Bozes suddenly picked him up in a princess carry. Just like that, she runs over to her subordinates who were waiting nearby with him in her arms. ¡°I GOT A KISS! I GOT A KISS! NICE RIGHT GUYS! FUHAHAHAHAHAHA!!¡± ¡°W, WAIT RIGHT THERE! HE¡¯S MINE!!¡± From behind, Schleer hurriedly chased after her. CH 81 Underground Fortress Infiltration 1 A few hours after the Viscountess¡¯s shenanigan. The party has taken a break and replenished their supply before heading further into the abandoned city. Their goal is to find the entrance to the underground base which is the objective of this operation. Naturally, they are more or less tired after the beach assault but they have to endure it as much as they can since the more time they take, the more the enemy will be ready for their defense. ¡°There it is!¡± One striker from the engineer squad in charge of carrying a container pointed at something that looked like an entrance to an underground parking lot. The gate is shut with a rugged armored shutter gate. Even with a tank, it wouldn¡¯t be easy to bulldoze through it. ¡°This is¡­..it seems that they are simply reusing the gate we installed. Do you think you can open it?¡± ¡°I will give it a try, Your Highness.¡± One striker from the engineer squad inserted a cable into the terminal at the shutter gate. ¡°I see, they¡¯ve installed a new defense system¡­¡­..but if we just use the code we pulled from the Noredian striker¡­¡­..¡± After a few minutes of the engineer muttering something to herself and operating the keyboard in her cockpit, the gate lift opened with a loud metallic noise. What lies beyond the gate was a huge passageway surrounded by reinforced concrete walls. ¡°Good work, I make sure to reward you later.¡± With the shutter opened faster than expected, Schleer was pleased. No, she may just have been in a good mood from the start because of the kiss Kisei promised her. ¡°It¡¯s convenient that they are using the gate we originally installed. Let¡¯s inform the other units to look for something similar.¡± It isn¡¯t a wise decision to concentrate a large army into one narrow underground passage. In the worst case, they might get wiped out in one fell swoop. That¡¯s why their plan is to split up and find multiple entrances to infiltrate the base at the same time. ¡°We should go in. The other units will infiltrate the base from other entrances as scheduled. Now, let¡¯s move.¡± According to Schleer¡¯s order, 4 multi-legged tanks enter the underground passage. The passageway was wide enough for tanks and strikers to easily pass through. This passageway was built using humanoid construction machines called Metal Workers which are a common tool for large-scale construction like this. These Metal Workers are built with the same standards as Strikers so the passageway is just the right size for Strikers as well. ¡°You know what an underground base like this¨C¡± Kisei who followed after Schleer and entered the passageways said in a relaxed tone. ¡°Doesn¡¯t it look like a dungeon in RPG games?¡± The reinforced concrete walls illuminated by dull white lights in interval does look kind of similar to a dungeon you often see in videogames. Thinking so, Saki laughs. ¡°We are using Ariadne¡¯s thread too. I guess it does feel like exploring a dungeon huh.¡± In front of her, a long cable is extending from the container on the back of the striker in the engineering unit. This cable is connected to the communication unit outside to ensure no communication blackout in an underground environment where wireless communication is unstable. ¡°What is it? This Ariadne¡¯s thread.¡± ¡°It came from a Terran myth. It¡¯s a story where the protagonist escapes an inescapable labyrinth by using a thread to retrace his way back¡­..¡± (TLN: Google Theseus and the Minotaur if you want to know more) Saki, whose grandfather is a Terran, is familiar with stories from Earth. Hearing her explanation, Schleer put her hand on her chin. ¡°Since I¡¯m planning to marry a Terran, I guess I should start studying more of these stories huh¡­¡­¡± The moment Schleer muttered so, a turret suddenly emerged from the ceiling and began firing at the infiltrating party. A series of loud gunshots echoed inside the wide passage. ¡°Just a peashooter!¡± However, in the end, it was only an Auto Turret. The only damage suffered was the scratch on the paint of the tank¡¯s frontal armor. With a return fire from the tank¡¯s main gun, the turret was completely destroyed. ¡°Th, that surprised me, Oi!¡± ¡°It¡¯s alright, you will eventually get numb to a surprise like this soon.¡± Kisei casually replied to the surprised scream. Since Kisei has roamed many battlefields before, he has a lot of experience fighting inside underground bases like this one. He¡¯s already used to this kind of surprise attack. ¡°In the first place, I can more or less tell when a defense mechanism will pop out from how the place looks. If it¡¯s a dangerous one then I will take them out beforehand.¡±. ¡°If you can tell that much then just take them all out from the start!¡± ¡°No way, it¡¯s a waste of bullets right¡­¡­¡± In a straight passageway like this, fighting a Zenith that possesses high firepower is not going to be easy. Personally, Kisei wants to conserve ammunition as much as possible. ¡°Ah, then please use this.¡± A [Claymore] walking behind them offered him a small firearm. It¡¯s a uniquely shaped blaster pistol with a magazine installed in front of the trigger. It¡¯s a blaster pistol model that is mass-produced in Calencia as a standard sub-weapon. ¡°A Broom Handle huh! Nice. This will be plenty enough against unmanned turrets.¡± After receiving the pistol along with some spare magazines, Kisei walks forward while avoiding the tanks in front and start leading the way while humming to himself. ¡°Ah¡­¡­¡± Schleer was about to stop him but she decided against it. Being at the forefront is naturally dangerous but this is Kisei here. No matter what comes out, he will surely be able to handle it. Moreover, there are only a few pilots on the Calencian side who have actual experience fighting inside an underground facility. If a veteran like him can take the lead then she should just be grateful and accept. ¡°Whoah, this time it¡¯s an automatic rocket turret huh. That¡¯s dangerous.¡± Thinking how overly reliable he is, Schleer smiled bitterly at Kisei who immediately shot the hidden turret with the blaster pistol. CH 82 Underground Fortress Infiltration 2 Kisei said that this underground passage reminds him of a dungeon commonly found in RPG games. And his view is not wrong. These underground bases are primarily designed to delay enemy troops that infiltrate it with forked pathways and destroy them with traps and ambushes. The main idea of this place is not much different from a labyrinth designed to challenge adventurers. ¡°Alright, they¡¯re doing this as expected. Kisei has been walking in front of the group while blasting away the traps with his blaster pistol but he suddenly halted just before he turned the corner. The multi-legged tank that followed behind him had to stop their advance in a hurry and its front legs slammed into the back of the [Caliburn-Revive]. ¡°That¡¯s dangerous isn¡¯t it!! Please don¡¯t stop moving all of a sudden like that!!¡± The driver of the tank angrily shouted. It wouldn¡¯t look nice for them if they got into an accident inside the enemy-controlled area. After all, even a Zenith would not escape unscathed if it was rammed by a heavy tank at full speed. ¡°S, Sorry.¡± ¡°If you take a selfie with me I will forgive you!¡± ¡°THAT¡¯S YOUR AIM!?¡± ¡°We were moving at the safe speed in the first place right!¡± ¡°IT¡¯S A SCAM, SHE¡¯S A SCAMMER!¡± The crews of the other multi-legged tanks and the striker pilots all raised their voices. On the other hand, the driver only replied with ¡®Whatever are you guys talking about¡¯. ¡°Stop this. We are in the middle of an operation.¡± Schleer reprimanded them in a fed-up voice. Since the Prince Ao incident, more and more people have begun to treat Kisei like an idol. Schleer doesn¡¯t want to complain unless they bother him but this time they lack self-awareness for this operation. ¡°Selfie aside, Your Highness, can you lend me your sword?¡± ¡°Eh, this is so sudden!? W, Well, I don¡¯t mind¡­¡­.¡± While wondering what he¡¯s going to do with it, Schleer hands the Zweihander mounted inside the shield on the shoulder of the [Mistilteinn] to Kisei. ¡°Thanks! This is it.¡± Kisei happily wields the Zweihander which has the same height as the [Caliburn-Revive] in one hand. The white light illuminating the passage reflects off the thick blade, giving off a mysterious shine. ¡°Alright, give me a minute. Everyone, please stay put here. Don¡¯t move out until I say so okay?¡± ¡°K, Kisei-san, what are you doing!? Wait!¡± ¡°See you!¡± Without answering Schleer¡¯s question, Kisei rushed out of the corner. At the same time, thunderous gunshots, explosions, loud metallic noises echo through the passageway, and the walls at the corners were blown apart, probably from multiple bombardments. However, the noises did not last even for a minute. Schleer and the others still try to figure out what happened when Kisei returned to their side while saying ¡®I¡¯m done¡¯. ¡°O, Ohh, wha-¡­..¡± The tank driver who nervously peeked over the corner was speechless. And that is rightly so. After all, the place that lies before her was like a scrapyard. The thing that stands out the most is the multi-legged tank whose body is skewered by the zweihander. There were other tanks in the area with their engine blown off by an anti-ship grenade launcher, and strikers that looked like they were pierced by a pile bunker as well. ¡°One, two, three¡­¡­¡­Hiiee, he took down this many in such a short time.¡± One of the engineers from the engineer unit said in a small voice when she peeked over. The total number of wreckage here is a little less than their party. Since the Calencian side also has engineers which can not be counted as combat personnel among them, they would surely suffer great damage if they collide with the enemy head-on. ¡°It¡¯s a narrow path after all¡­¡­there¡¯s nowhere you can take cover in this passage so it¡¯s pretty easy to deal with them.¡± ¡°No, that also applies to you too, right.¡± Saki astounded replied to Kisei who said that so casually. ¡°Well, you see, they placed a tank at the front of their formation right. Unlike the turret on warships, these tanks can¡¯t do rapid-fire. That¡¯s why it¡¯s actually quite easy to avoid their shot, you know.¡± ¡°You can do that?¡± ¡°Yeah. So, if you can avoid their shots, all you need is to get close and shut them down. The narrower the passage, the clearer the difference in skills after all.¡± ¡°Yeah, sure.¡± It¡¯s pretty normal for Kisei to pull off something crazy like this. Since she has to go along with it every time, Saki is already used to it. However, the soldiers accompanying them this time are not. ¡°I¡¯ve heard rumors but he¡¯s this strong?¡± ¡°He really is our guardian deity.¡± ¡°I will make that selfie my family heirloom¡­..¡± Schleer narrows her eyes at her subordinates who gradually become noisier. Kisei did great in crushing the enemy ambush unscathed but she still wishes she can play more of an active role here. ¡°Thanks for this.¡± Her train of thought was interrupted by Kisei who pulled out the zweihander from the tank and returned it to her. Schleer accepts it with a bitter smile while wondering why he¡¯s thanking her when what he¡¯s done for them far outweigh the trivial act of lending him her sword. ¡°It¡¯s nothing. But next time it will be my turn. Even if it won¡¯t be much, let me show you my cool side next time.¡± ¡°Alright, I¡¯m looking forward to it.¡± Hearing how she said that so straightforwardly, Kisei can¡¯t help but make a bitter smile himself. CH 83 Underground Fortress Infiltration 3 ¡°The 7th floor has been breached!¡± ¡°Forty percent of our defense system is down, ma¡¯am. The Bulkheads are not responding!¡± ¡°What are you all doing, fix it!¡± While Kisei¡¯s group¡¯s offensive goes swimmingly, the commander on Nored side was rebuking her subordinates with a blue vein popping on her forehead. Even though she¡¯s the commander of this base, she¡¯s still in her early teens. This is no surprise given the fact that young high-ranking aristocrats are required to fight as a general on the frontline in accordance with Vuld culture. ¡°What¡¯s the defense team doing? The Calencian shouldn¡¯t have that many soldiers available either. Why are we the one being pushed back when we have a defensive advantage!¡± ¡°Th, that¡¯s¡­¡­¡± When the commander angrily asked while roughing her blonde twin-tails, her subordinate nervously replied. ¡°The rumors that the [Wicked Star] is among the enemy has widely spread among our soldiers so the morale has plummeted¡­¡­..moreover, it appears that some of the commoner troops have even surrendered to the enemy before the fight even begins.¡± ¡°U-S-E-L-E-S-S-!!¡± The commander stomped on the floor. Her staff officers looked at her with a tired expression but they didn¡¯t voice any complaint. After all, they share her frustration as well. ¡°This is why I hate working with those damn commoners!¡± Even if with that said, there¡¯s nothing to be done. A defensive war would be another thing but there are really not many things that can be used to motivate the commoners when it comes to an invasion. They have low attachment to the army as well as their nation, their sole motivation is their salary. Once they see that things are going south, they would immediately surrender. In the first place, these commoner soldiers belong to the commoner unit that no one put any expectation in them from the start. Still, using their number, they should amount to something¡­¡­ ¡°The 1st and 2nd gates of the underground harbor are destroyed! It seems that the Calencian engineer units are attacking from the sea, ma¡¯am!¡± ¡°Eh, W, why!? That underground harbor was newly constructed right!? The Calencian can¡¯t possibly know that it¡¯s there!¡± The underground fortress has a large harbor connected to the sea. Its purpose is to secretly maintain and resupply their submarines and spaceships when a ground battle occurs. It also serves as an escape route in case the fortress falls into the enemy¡¯s hand. Naturally, the location of its entrance should be one of the most confidential information regarding this base¡­¡­. ¡°Most likely, the troops that surrendered have given up the information¡­..¡± The aged staff officer answered in a small voice. ¡°Why! Why are my subordinates so incompetent!¡± When the base commander screamed while scratching at her head, an alarm suddenly ring inside the command center. ¡°Our communication line was hijacked, ma¡¯am!¡± The operator reports in a desperate voice. The base commander was about to rebuke her but she didn¡¯t get a chance to do that as Schleer¡¯s face suddenly showed up on the main monitor of the command center. ¡°Ahem¡­¡­Greetings, Ladies of the Nored Empire. Can you hear me?¡± ¡°AhAhh~ CAN¡¯T HEAR YOU!¡± ¡°We can.¡± The base commander shut her ears and shouted so but the aged staff officer answered Schleer with an unpleasant expression. ¡°Princess Schleer Henrietta I assume? The reason you contacted us now¡­¡­well, I guess you are probably going to tell us to surrender, correct?¡± ¡°It¡¯s helpful that you are so quick to understand.¡± Schleer replied with a smile. ¡°We¡¯ve already infiltrated the lowest level of this fortress. We are only waiting for our surface unit to arrive before we storm into that command center of yours. However, I think that both of us desire to avoid unnecessary bloodshed, no?¡± Fighting inside a striker can more or less lessen the damage to human lives due to the safety the cockpit provides but that is not the case in anti-personnel combat. Moreover, the battlefield this time will be a closed space. Fighting here will inevitably lead to massive loss of lives. ¡°If you surrender now, both soldiers and generals will not be treated poorly. We will squarely treat you as prisoners of war. What do you think?¡± ¡°Hmph, I am the next Marchioness of Mithra! I will not surrender so easily!¡± ¡°Exactly.¡± The aged staff officer agreed to the base commander¡¯s statement. However, the reactions from the surroundings staff officers and soldiers are different. Some of them despaired at the coming tragedy, while the others got inspired by the base commander¡¯s words. Seeing that, Schleer¡¯s mouth turned downward. ¡°¡­¡­.In that case, this is inevitable. Goodbye.¡± ¡°Wait.¡± Schleer was about to end the communication but the aged staff officer stopped her. ¡°It is still the role of the general to reduce unnecessary losses. In shorts, your terms are acceptable as long as our commander¡¯s honor is protected. Is that not the case? Commander.¡± ¡°Eh? Y, Yeah?¡± The base commander looked at the old staff officer like she was trying to ask what she¡¯s planning here. The aged staff officer then looked back at her with a mischievous smile. ¡°I propose that we perform single combat between the generals from both sides. No matter what the result, our commander¡¯s honor will be preserved.¡± ¡°W. Wait a minute? I¡¯m only a major general though?¡± ¡°It is just a figure of speech, Commander.¡± After glancing at the base commander like she was a stupid child for a moment, her eyes turned back toward Schleer. ¡°If you win, we will obediently surrender. However, if we win, we¡¯d like you to allow our personnel of officer rank and above to escape. Does that sound acceptable to you?¡± ¡°Fumu, well, I already thought that this kind of proposal would come.¡± In a situation like this, a commander would be disqualified as an aristocrat if they do not propose a duel like that. Schleer, who is on the advantageous side has no obligation to accept such a proposal but there¡¯s no doubt that winning such a duel here would boost the morale of her subordinates. ¡°Let me state this condition first just in case. We will not allow you to send in a representative. As a princess, surely you would not hide yourself behind a mere mercenary, correct?¡± ¡°Naturally.¡± Since this is her chance, Schleer wants to make it an overwhelming victory to show Kisei how cool she is. Thinking so, Schleer replied with a grin. ¡°This is a general¡¯s duty! I will not allow you to escape from this, ma¡¯am!¡± The base commander involuntarily stepped back at the aged staff officer¡¯s strong attitude. ¡°I, I never said that I would refuse right!¡± ¡°Very well. Then let us do this at the underground harbor. If it¡¯s there, you should be able to fly your striker to your heart¡¯s content.¡± Saying so, the aged staff officer signaled the operator with her eyes to send the map of the fortress over to Schleer. ¡°Hmm, it seems that it¡¯s nearby. Very well.¡± The underground harbor was located within walking distance from the command center because it also served as an emergency escape route. After checking the map she received with the map she has to see if the Nored side is laying down any traps for them, Schleer agreed. CH 84 A Woman¡¯s Will 1 ¡°This place sure is wide. They weren¡¯t kidding when they said that Strikers wouldn¡¯t have any problem moving around here huh.¡± Said Kisei as he looked around the underground harbor. This underground harbor which was constructed to house large warships for their resupply and maintenance work is about the size of a small port town. ¡°I don¡¯t mind your sightseeing but we will not allow you to interfere with the duel, Mercenary.¡± The aged staff officer warned him through the radio. She remains in the command center but she is probably keeping her eyes on them through the surveillance cameras. Thinking so, Kisei unintentionally smiled. ¡°Of course, interfering in someone else¡¯s duel would be rude to both sides after all.¡± ¡°Hmph. it appears that you properly understand our way despite being a man huh.¡± Her words were thorny but Kisei didn¡¯t pay them any mind. After all, his ego is not so fragile as to be hurt by such words. ¡°Hah, that¡¯s some big word you are spouting Old Hag. Don¡¯t lump our Hokuto in with the pathetic likes of yours.¡± Instead, it was Saki who reacted to her barbed words. For some reason, she also lightly tapped the shoulder of the [Caliburn-Revive] with a smug expression. They were not in a video communication but Kisei could roughly know what kind of expression she is making just by her voice. ¡®But didn¡¯t you also tell me that a man has no business being on the battlefield before?¡¯, such words came to his mind but Kisei refused the urge to retort and swallowed it back down. Now that Saki is treating him like a comrade in arms, it doesn¡¯t matter. ¡°You sure have a mouth, little girl. Can¡¯t say I like it.¡± ¡°I don¡¯t remember asking for your opinion though.¡± It¡¯s a tense atmosphere where provocations are being exchanged. However, before it could break out into a full-on quarrel, the shutter at the back of the harbor opened. What appeared from inside was a flashy vermillion striker. Two sabers are hanging at the left and right sides of its hips with a blaster carbine in its right hand. With dignified steps, the vermillion striker entered the harbor. Behind it are [Jettas] and [Vils] marching as though they are soldiers accompanying their general. They are probably her personal guards. ¡°You came. I¡¯ve been waiting.¡± In the cockpit of the [Mistilteinn], Schleer greeted them with a warlike smile. She then released her crossed arms and gently placed her hands on the control sticks. ¡°Ara, so you¡¯ve actually waited. Aren¡¯t you afraid of losing?¡± ¡°I don¡¯t feel like losing after all.¡± Schleer replies with a smirk. ¡°I am the next Marchioness of Mithra, Melange Hohen. I will not be defeated by a backwater princess like you!¡± Melange said as she thrust out her non-existent chest inside the cockpit. Thinking that she¡¯s quite confident, Kisei asked the aged staff officer a question. ¡°Mithra huh. Is it a big territory in Nored?¡± ¡°The Principality of Mithra is a rich country with multiple trading ports, don¡¯t you even know that?¡± Perhaps she¡¯s from the Mithra Principality as well, the aged officer¡¯s reply was curt as though finding fault with him for not even knowing that. ¡°Is that so, I was on the other side of the galaxy until just half a year ago so¡­¡­¡± Even if what she said is true and Mithra is a major trading hub here, there are numerous star systems as there are stars. Of course, there are many large-scale countries in existence across the universe that¡¯s why Kisei can¡¯t possibly know about each and every aristocratic territory within them. ¡°Every single one of you really is country bumpkins huh! Alright, if I win, I will take that princess over there back to my territory as a prisoner! I will educate you on what a real city looks like.¡± Melange declared with a cruel smile. ¡°By the way, I will take you to my earlymoon(a trip before the wedding) with my fiance as well. You should be good enough to pull the rickshaw for us! You are so proud of your strength after all, two birds with one stone!¡± ¡°Ahn!? That woman has a fiance!!¡± Saki roared. Behind her, the Calencian soldiers also boo at Melange. Their reaction is inevitable given that she¡¯s just boasting of her lover on the battlefield drought of man. ¡°THAT¡¯S RIGHT! Don¡¯t lump me in with losers like you people!¡± Replying so, Melange mockingly laughs at them. ¡°Un, Unforgivable¡­¡­.¡± ¡°Should we all get her together? Let¡¯s do it!¡± ¡°Wait wait WAit! Don¡¯t be hasty now!¡± In a hurry, Kisei stopped the Calencian soldiers who began to take up their weapons. This is a one on one fight between Melange and Schleer. He can¡¯t allow them to ruin that. ¡°Hmm, is that so.¡± However, Schleer¡¯s expression remains casual when she looked back at the vermillion striker and replied so. ¡°So your family is rich? Great! This means that we can get a lot of ransom out of you! Since we are at it, asking for a ransom for your release isn¡¯t a step too far right!¡± ¡°Ha?¡± Confused, Melange¡¯s eyes turned into dots. And Schleer continues. ¡°I¡¯m looking forward to greeting your parent now, Kisei-san! Please look forward to it as well!¡± ¡°What is she talking about now, that idiot?¡± Saki said in an unpleasant voice. Kisei on the other hand simply sighed and turned away. ¡°As long as I have my love for you, I will not lose to anyone! Schleer Henrietta, [Mistilteinn]! Let¡¯s duel!¡± ¡°Fu Fuhn! You sure can bark huh! Melange Hohen! [Urbaf] accept your challenge!¡± After both sides gave their names, the duel started. CH 85 A Woman¡¯s Will 2 ¡°Here I go!¡± The first to make a move was the [Urbaf], a lightweight Zenith piloted by the base commander, Melange. The vermillion striker sprints through the steel and concrete-covered square of the underground harbor while emitting a blue trail from its thruster. ¡°Oh, don¡¯t think I will let you get close so easily!¡± The [Urbaf] is a close-range specialized striker with no other ranged weapon besides its blaster carbine. To the [Mistilteinn] a striker equipped head to toe with numerous firearms, it is a striker that should not be allowed to get close. Pulling the trigger, a large number of missiles fired from the pods on the [Mistilteinn]¡¯s legs and waist. The number of missiles was overwhelming and they all converged toward the [Urbaf]. ¡°Hmph, missiles huh, that¡¯s not something a real warrior should be using!¡± However, on the other hand, Melange pulled her control sticks with a brave smile. She makes a sharp turn and takes cover behind a gantry crane. The missiles impacted on the sturdy steel crane and exploded in a fiery red explosion which illuminated the warships docked at the wharf. ¡°Tsk, this place is too claustrophobic.¡± There are many large buildings in the harbor for maintenance and resupplying work. It¡¯s a location where you would not have a shortage of covers. For a striker specialized in ranged warfare, it¡¯s a hard place to exhibit its power. ¡°Even so, I have enough firepower to compensate that!¡± The moment she shouted so, Schleer fired her blaster cannon toward the gantry crane. The extra thick beam burns through the steel frame and pierces it, making the crane the size of a small tower collapse in a loud noise. ¡°Wait a minute! Your Highness! This place will be our forward base once we take over, right!?¡± The Calencian soldiers voiced their concern but Schleer didn¡¯t pay them any mind. After all, if she loses because she has to worry about collateral damage here then it would be putting a cart before the horse. ¡°There you are!¡± Schleer sprays her heavy machine gun into the shadowy figure she spotted through the dust cloud. ¡°Like hell that will hit me!¡± With a flash of thruster flame, Melange moved out of the way and the bullets pierced the reinforced concrete behind her. Her reaction speed was superb. It seems that she does have the ability to support her big words earlier. On the other hand, seeing the [Urbaf] rush out at her from the smoke, Schleer whistled. ¡°That stationary cannon-like striker of yours will never land a hit on me!¡± Melange fires her blaster carbine at the [Mistilteinn] that continues spraying bullets toward her. Schleer nimbly avoided the shots but Melange already anticipated that. As she continues to avoid the spray of bullets from the machine gun, she performs sudden acceleration and immediately closes in on Schleer. ¡°Stay still!¡± Schleer continued shooting her machine gun toward Melange but she skillfully used a shield to hinder Schleer¡¯s line of sight and keep approaching her. When she noticed it, Melange was already at her side. ¡°I got you!¡± The muzzle of Melange¡¯s blaster carbine is pointed at Schleer and she rapidly opens fire. However, Schleer simply protected herself with a shield. After all, against low-power/low-caliber projectiles, the [Mistilteinn] has enough defensive capability to withstand any number of shots. ¡°Tsk! But at this range, I don¡¯t need a gun anymore!¡± As soon as she shouted that, Melange pulled out the twin sabers from the waist. ¡°Dual wielding!?¡± Saki who was watching the duel from afar shouted. Many pilots are good with their swords but it¡¯s rare to see a dual wielder like Melange. ¡°Hou¡­¡­¡± Schleer who¡¯s currently facing her also narrowed her eyes. From the movement Melange exhibited so far, there¡¯s no doubt that Melange¡¯s ability is the real deal. It¡¯s clear that she is not using two swords at the same time just for the look of it. Assessing that she must be a skilled swordfighter, a small mistake on Schleer¡¯s part might be enough for Melange to cut her down in an instant. ¡°Take this!¡± Melange rushed in with a strong step. Schleer continues to shoot the heavy machine gun while retreating with all her might but a heavy striker with poor maneuverability like [Mistilteinn] can¡¯t possibly get away from the agile [Urbaf] so easily. Despite how she magnificently evaded the first strike, the white blade continues to approach [Mistilteinn]. ¡°You¡¯re fast!¡± While admiring the [Urbaf]¡¯s speed, Schleer¡¯s movement was calm and collected. She immediately abandoned her heavy machine gun and pulled out the photon saber from the chest hardpoint to catch the saber coming from her right while using the shield mounted on [Mistilteinn]¡¯s shoulder to block the one from the left. At the same time, she pulled the trigger and the head-mounted machine gun sprayed a large number of bullets down toward the [Urbaff]¡¯s chest armor. Although it was designed to be light, the chest armor of the [Urbaf] is thick enough to prevent bullets from low-caliber rounds from piercing it. However, the sound of the bullets impacting just outside her cockpit made Melange jump in surprise. ¡°HAH!¡± Without missing that small opening, Schleer¡¯s photon saber swing sideways at the [Urbaf]. ¡°Don¡¯t think that such lukewarm swordsmanship can defeat me!¡± However, the side swing was ruthlessly blocked by Melange¡¯s saber. The [Mistilteinn] appears to have the stronger power output but her photon saber was unable to cut into Melange¡¯s steel saber. Her blade was stopped. And that means she¡¯s now exposing a fatal opening to her enemy. ¡°This is the end!¡± Melange slashes at Schleer with the saber in her right hand. Seeing that, Schleer grinned. ¡°You took the bait!¡± At the same time, Schleer¡¯s hand slams on the screen panel of her console. [[Releasing Recoil Suppression System]] Along with the AI¡¯s inorganic voice, she fired the blaster cannon on her shoulder. The thick beam flew over the [Urbaf]¡¯s shoulder and hit the concrete floor because she didn¡¯t take a proper aim but that doesn¡¯t matter. Due to the disabled Recoil Suppression System, the [Mistilteinn] flew backward from the recoil of the shot. Although she only fired a charged particle, the recoil from it is comparable to a solid shell due to its power. ¡°No¡­!¡± As a result, blood drained from the face of Melange whose slash was brilliantly evaded. However, it¡¯s too late to make a counter-move now. Schleer, who forcibly stopped the backward momentum using the feet anchor, grabbed the handle of the Zweihander mounted inside her shoulder shield while using the thruster to rush back toward Melange. ¡°Saki is not the only one who can use an electromagnetic scabbard!¡± At the same time, using the electromagnetic ejection mechanism inside her shoulder shield, the zweihander was unsheathed at tremendous speed. The slash brilliantly cut through the vermillion armor of the [Urbaf] and horizontally split its body into two, making its upper half tumble to the concrete floor. ¡°Hmph, I guess this is it.¡± Glancing at the [Urbaf]¡¯s undamaged cockpit, Schleer nodded in satisfaction. Swearing voices can be heard from the radio but Schleer simply smiles at how energetic her opponent is and mercilessly cuts off the communication with the [Urbaf]. ¡°Kisei-san! Did you see!? I won!!¡± ¡°Luring your opponent close by tricking them to think that you are weak in close-quarter then finish the fight with a surprise attack huh. That was splendid.¡± Kisei responded in a joyful voice to Schleer who celebrated while making a peace sign inside her cockpit. He was not trying to flatter her. He simply states a genuine praise. Her opponent has a complete geographical advantage over her. In such a narrow place full of covers like this, a heavy-duty long-range striker would have a hard time against a nimble and agile striker. Schleer¡¯s victory came solely from her own skills and wit. ¡°Right! Right! Hahahahahaha!¡± ¡°It seems she¡¯s going to be annoying for a while huh.¡± Seeing Schleer rejoice so cheerfully, Saki muttered with a frown on her face. CH 86 A Woman¡¯s Will 3 One hour after the duel. The agreement was fulfilled and all Noredian personnel inside the fortress surrendered. From the start, the commoner troops had no intention to resist. That¡¯s why the disarmament went relatively smoothly with only some minor resistance from some nobles. Meanwhile, Schleer and her subordinates gather inside the command center. This is to direct and monitor the disarmament and transfer of POWs. Since this place is the information center of this fortress, it is probably the perfect place for such work. ¡°Wh, what a disgrace¡«!¡± It was Melange who was dragged out from the cockpit who shouted so as she stepped inside the command center. Although she is being surrounded by armed Calencian soldiers, she¡¯s not restrained by any handcuffs or rope. This is due to her being a high-ranking aristocrat. Albeit being a POW they still need to treat her appropriately. Of course, by not restraining her, there¡¯s a risk that she might escape but in a case like this, if her side pays the ransom, she will be safely released. That¡¯s the reason why not many POWs in her situation would choose to escape by themselves. ¡°Commander¡­¡­please stay quiet. You are a commanding officer you know? You should be grateful that they do not treat you like a war criminal.¡± The aged officer said so and heaved a sigh. Hearing the word [War Criminal], Melange¡¯s face turned blue. What came to her mind was the abandoned city above this very fortress. Certainly, in a normal war, the safety of the POWs is guaranteed but this time the Noredian has committed an atrocity by indiscriminately bombarding the civilians in the early stage of the war. ¡°I, I opposed the purge bombing from the beginning you know! But the supreme commander¡­..Her Highness Diaroze said that [It¡¯s Her Majesty the Empress¡¯s decree!] so there was nothing I could do¡­¡­.if you are going to trial me then I can testify this.¡± ¡°Hou, I think I¡¯ve heard something useful just now.¡± Schleer muttered with a serious expression. It appears that the purge bombing was carried out according to the Noredian Empress¡¯s will. ¡°If that¡¯s the case¡­¡­.then it seems that you people might have drawn quite an unfortunate hand huh.¡± ¡°Unfortunate hand?¡± Unable to comprehend what she tried to say, Melange asked in confusion. However, the aged officer next to her simply nods as though she agrees with Schleer¡¯s thinking. ¡°Even for an aristocrat, killing such a large number of civilians is still something that is not looked kindly upon. No, if I have to be frank, it¡¯s quite a serious crime for an aristocrat to slaughter citizens of another country¡­¡­.¡± ¡°B, But, we were only obeying orders right! If we went against it, our territory would be attacked for treason, you know!¡± ¡°That¡¯s right¡­¡­.they¡¯ve forced such dirty work on us and once all things said and done, they would find fault in your honor as an aristocrat! After that, she would come down and reap every benefit for herself, that empress.¡± The aged officer said in abandonment. There was a grudge in her eyes. Kisei, who was in the corner of the command center, frowned at her words which he thinks that she didn¡¯t say out loud only for sympathy. Perhaps, they may have their own circumstances as well. ¡°Quite a slave driver huh, your Empress.¡± ¡°Well, she¡¯s a woman who has ascended the throne with only her cunning and underhanded means after all.¡± The tone of the aged officer sounded very confident. Hearing that, Melange¡¯s shoulders started to tremble. ¡°N, no way¡­¡­.then we are only a disposable pawn¡­¡­?¡± She said that as she looked up to the ceiling as though it¡¯s the end of the world. Seeing that, Saki who seems to be sympathetic to their situation put her hand on Melange¡¯s shoulder with a gentle expression. ¡°W, well, don¡¯t thi¨C¡­¡­¡± ¡°And it¡¯s just only half a year before my wedding too!!¡± ¡°You are so proud about that aren¡¯t you, damn it!¡± Saki¡¯s sympathy was blown away in an instant when she heard Melange talking about her marriage. With no more words of encouragement, she proceeded to put her iron claw on top of Melange¡¯s head. ¡°Ouch, Ouch, Ouch! What are you doing, I¡¯m a prisoner of war you know!¡± ¡°Good, harder!¡± ¡°Don¡¯t let that Riajuu off the hook!¡± (TLN: Riajuu = Those winners at life, just explode damn it.) Saki¡¯s action was fully supported by the surrounding soldiers. For some reason, even the POWs seem to be among them as well. It seems that the distaste toward a Riajuu is quite universal. ¡°HaHaHa, Keep it at that, Lt. Makishima.¡± Schleer stops her with an uplifting attitude. Her eyes were glancing toward Kisei. ¡®Don¡¯t look so cheerful just because you scored some points with him¡¯ muttered Saki under her breath as her mouth turned downward. ¡°Well, you don¡¯t have to worry. We at the Calencia empire are different from the villainous Nored. That¡¯s why you people will not be punished without a proper trial.¡± Schleer said that with a big smile. She¡¯s probably still quite joyous about her victory. As a side note, she¡¯s been this way ever since she left the [Mistilteinn]. ¡°Also, rather than executing you, asking for a ransom would be way more profitable¡­¡­.¡± Melange did not miss the words that Schleer muttered in a low voice. Is she supposed to be relieved that she will be safe or should she get angry for the disgrace she was made to suffer? While wondering so, Melange sat down on a nearby chair with a subtle expression as she shook her head from side to side. In the end, she chose to put on an ironic smile and shrugged. ¡°Seriously, it seems that I¡¯m really in a bind here. My superior only used me as a convenient throwaway piece, not only that, I just lost to a woman who brought a man to the battlefield.¡± ¡°Wha¡­..!¡± Schleer exclaimed at Melange who was glancing sideways at Kisei. ¡°I¡¯m seriously amazed, you know. A woman who stands tall to protect a man¡­¡­that¡¯s the definition of a knight right? Even so, you brought him to the battlefield and let him fight¡­¡­..I would never be able to do that.¡± ¡°That¡¯s not funny you know.¡± Instead of Schleer, it was Kisei whose body shakes in anger as he replies in an angry tone. ¡°I like the battlefield. I enjoy fighting, and I can meet a lot of exciting people¡­.. Besides, if you take fighting away from me, what would I have left?¡± The second part of his words was almost inaudible. For a moment, Schleer glanced at him with a doubtful look but before she could ask him what he said, the tense atmosphere was broken by a loud voice. ¡°If you have time to have a stupid quarrel then please lend me a hand here!!¡± Looking at the source of the voice, they found Schleer¡¯s staff officer, Solana who¡¯s currently holding several communication devices in her hand while looking at Schleer with bloodshot eyes. ¡°Organizing the prisoners, doing the inventory, reorganizing our troops! There is a lot of work to be done, you know! Your Highness!¡± ¡°S, Sorry!¡± Even though she fought on the frontline, Schleer is not a mere soldier but the general who holds the most authority on the Calencian side. She has no time to relax just because the fight is over. After staring at Melange for a few seconds, she lowered her head to Kisei in an apologetic look before running over to Solana in a hurry. ¡°Hmm, first is the POWs huh. Uwah, they have this many units on standby¡­..?¡± ¡°For the time being, let¡¯s disarm all of them immediately! If we allow them to keep their weapon, we won¡¯t be able to start the base refurbishment with peace of mind right!¡± The battle is over but it seems that Schleer¡¯s work is not yet done. With an expression that looks like she just ate a spoonful of worms, Schleer starts directing her subordinates. CH 87 Cornered After the capture of the underground fortress, the Calencian army set out to take control of the surrounding area. The resistance from the Nored side was surprisingly weak and they continued to make good progress with only some losses from their occasional ambush. ¡°The capture of the underground base at point R118 is completed, ma¡¯am. With this, this continent should be completely under our control.¡± In the command center of the underground fortress, a staff member reported to Schleer. There was no sense of tension in her voice. With each battle, their controlled area continues to expand. Even a common military training would provide more challenges than their current situation. ¡°It was¡­¡­too easy, don¡¯t you think.¡± Groaned Schleer, who seated herself in the middle of the command center. Their progress is obviously too unnatural. [[So this is what the Nored amount to huh!]] Schleer is not foolish enough to spout such an optimistic remark like that. The enemy general, Diaroze, is an opponent that she must be on guard against, and honestly, seeing how overly smooth their progress is, Schleer can not help but feel anxious. ¡°What¡¯s the damage to our side?¡± ¡°Regarding that¡­¡­I¡¯m sending the data to you now, Your Highness.¡± When Schleer took a look at the data she received via her terminal, her expression immediately stiffened. The scale of the base they launched their attack on is by no means large but the damage her force still suffered considerable damage. ¡°The looted supply¡­¡­.I don¡¯t see much of it at all. Only some food and propellant?¡± ¡°I was told that the ammunition depot discovered there was completely destroyed as well, ma¡¯am.¡± ¡°Scorched earth huh.¡± Kisei, who was listening in on their conversation nearby muttered with a bitter expression. With no major battles taking place, Kisei practically spent his time on standby at the underground fortress. He¡¯s probably standing by in the command center right now in case Schleer needs him to sortie in an emergency. As usual, he was forbidden to walk around by himself so there¡¯s nothing more boring for him at the moment. ¡°To think they are resorting to such a nasty tactic. They must be waiting for us to exhaust our strength first huh.¡± The battle reports she received mostly share similar results. While their force is suffering substantial damage, what they gain is very little. ¡°Even so, if we ignore the enemy bases and forcibly mobilize our main force, we will surely suffer great damage from their ambush. We have no choice but to solidify our foundation, Your Highness.¡± Solana replies to Kisei with her arms crossed. If they leave minor enemy bases alone in fear of suffering damage to their forces, the enemy will mobilize guerilla units from there and attack their supply route along with their less protected personnel. ¡°Our objective is either destroying the Nored¡¯s main force or taking control of all 3 underground fortresses on this planet. The latter is preferable. After all, we will gain a tremendous advantage over the Noredian Fleet if we can restore our defense network here.¡± The Nored empire still has the upper hand in terms of overall strength. Nevertheless, they are avoiding confronting them in a decisive battle to prevent the miracle of Leboir from happening again. The Nored¡¯s tactic this time around is undoubtedly to weaken the Calencian side as much as they can before striking at the most opportune time. ¡°Taking control of the surrounding area with as little damage as possible and safely capturing the remaining fortresses¡­..I don¡¯t think that our current strategy is mistaken. However, I am still uneasy to be dancing to their tune like this.¡± ¡°With the losses we suffered from each battle, I don¡¯t think that we can call this ¡®safely¡¯ anymore though¡­¡­.our supply is being exhausted. If we run out of bullets then we would not have any chance of winning after all.¡± Solana averted her eyes from Kisei. What Kisei is saying is correct. To deliver supplies to this planet, they would have to enter the Nored-controlled territory. Naturally, their enemy would never miss such a defenseless transport unit and as a result, the supply would run dry on the frontline. ¡°Certainly, the more time we spend here, the more disadvantageous we will be.¡± ¡°I thought that we can procure supply from the enemy but it seems like I was too naive. If possible, it would be better if we can bring them into a short-term decisive battle¡­¡­¡± Still, is it not too ironic to be wishing for such a thing when they are taking their time to thoroughly clean out the enemy underground bases like this? Schleer wondered with a frown. ¡°Well, our next action is already decided anyway. We are going to take the next underground fortress. The Chief of Staff is formulating the strategy for our next operation at the moment.¡± As Solana says, even though she is not with them in the command center, the Chief of Staff is currently groaning while looking at maps and various data inside her room onboard the [Radiant]. There is no other underground fortress on this continent. They will have to cross and make their way through another continent for that. The operation plan must be as foolproof as possible since an ambush on the ocean can severely damage their ground forces. ¡°Well, in other words, I¡¯m free until then right. I¡¯m bored.¡± It is the officers¡¯ job to come up with their plan of action, something that¡¯s unrelated to Kisei who is only a pilot. Basically, he has nothing to do until the next sortie. With no sign of attack from the 4 Heavenly, he¡¯s pretty much bummed out. ¡°Even if you are bored, please don¡¯t go wandering around our prisoners okay.¡± Schleer warned him with a strict expression. During his free time here, Kisei was accompanied by Saki and often went to see Melange. ¡°Well, that person has a lot of sweets after all¡­¡­.she always gives me some every time I went to see her.¡± At the moment, Melange is subjected to house arrest inside her own room. Since aside from some items that might pose danger to them, her personal belongings were left untouched and she seems to be enjoying her time here as a POW. ¡°You are just being lured in by her sweets right!!¡± Schleer shouted as though she received a shock. ¡®If I knew there¡¯s such an easy way to spend my time with him then I should¡¯ve done this from the start¡¯ was her true intention. ¡°In the first place, I think I have placed an order forbidding anyone from entering her room aside from authorized personnel though¡­¡­.¡± Saying so, Solana stared at him. ¡°Rather, this place is also off-limits except for some officers and operators too you know. For some reason, it seems you are quite free to come and go anywhere you want aren¡¯t you.¡± ¡°Eh, is that the case?¡± When Kisei looked back at her like he was surprised by her words, Solana averted her eyes again. His appearance is too dangerous for her to have a conversation with him face to face. Thinking so, she gently pressed her palm against her chest to calm down. ¡°W, Well, I will make an exception for you. B, Be grateful for it.¡± In the end, Solana allowed Kisei to stay. In the first place, when he entered the room, the guards couldn¡¯t stop him because of the same reason. So this is what is called a [Beauty]. Thinking so, Solana heaved a sigh inside her heart. CH 88 Waking up and Peeping Tom Kisei is sleeping inside the cockpit of [Caliburn-Revive]. He leaned his pilot seat back to the limit and used the flight jacket he always wears as a blanket. Although the maintenance deck was noisy due to the maintenance works and the chatter of its crew, he¡¯s peacefully sleeping with gentle breath. ¡°¡­¡­.¡± From the outside of the cockpit hatch, the Chief Mechanic peeked inside. When she saw Kisei¡¯s soundly sleeping face, she let out a small ¡°Ooh¡­.¡± while pointing a small camera at him. ¡°Just a little bit¡­¡­..just a little bit is fine right¡­¡­.?¡± When she pressed the shutter with her trembling finger, a faint clicking echoed inside the cockpit. At the same time, she heard a loud voice coming from behind her. ¡°OOI, Hokuto!¡± ¡°Uwah!¡± In surprise, the Chief Mechanic fell back and the back of her head smashed into the basket of the maintenance crane. ¡°Ouch!¡± ¡°Wh, what are you doing?¡± At the feet of the [Caliburn-Revive]¡­¡­.Saki looked up at her with a puzzled expression. While putting the camera back inside her pocket, the Chief Mechanic stood up and scratched her head. ¡°Nothing, hahaha.¡± ¡°¡­..well, whatever. Hokuto¡¯s in there right?¡± ¡°Umm.¡± When she glanced inside the cockpit, Kisei¡¯s eyes were still shut. Even though she just made a fuss, he didn¡¯t wake up. It seems that he¡¯s in a deep sleep. Thinking so, the Chief Mechanic stroked her chest in relief. ¡°It seems he¡¯s resting.¡± ¡°He¡¯s taking a nap? It¡¯s almost time for dinner you know.¡± ¡°Maybe he¡¯s just tired?¡± ¡°We had nothing to do for a while already though, how could he get tired¡­¡­..sorry but, can you wake him up for me?¡± ¡°Yes, yes.¡± The Chief Mechanic got inside the cockpit again while looking at Kisei¡¯s sleeping face. ¡°I guess this is also an occupational benefit huh.¡± After enjoying his sleeping face for a moment so as to not arouse Saki¡¯s suspicion, she shook his shoulders. ¡°Please wake up, it¡¯s almost time for dinner!¡± ¡°¡­..Nn? Ah, good morning¡­¡­¡± Shortly after he got up, Kisei rubbed his eyes and stretched. He then looked at the Chief Mechanic with a yawn. Seeing him like that, the Chief Mechanic shyly turned away. ¡°The light? What time is it?¡± ¡°It¡¯s 6:30, local time.¡± ¡°Uwah, I slept for 3 hours?¡± With a sleepy expression, Kisei sighed. Originally, he only intended to take a nap for an hour. ¡°Lt. Makishima is here to see you, you know?¡± ¡°Eh, really? My bad¡­¡­¡± In a hurry, Kisei jumped out of the cockpit and lowered himself down using the crane. On the other hand, Saki greeted him with a subtle expression. ¡°If you sleep at a time like this, you won¡¯t be able to get any sleep at night you know.¡± ¡°You sound like my sister.¡± ¡°Shut up.¡± Saying so, Saki patted his head. However, her touch was more like roughly stroking rather than gently patting. ¡°Still, sorry about this. You waited for me right?¡± Of course, Kisei still hasn¡¯t received permission to go about the place alone. Saki is currently acting as his escort. He did tell her that he would be taking a nap beforehand but¡­¡­ ¡°No, it¡¯s fine. I made that guy watch over you, I just got back from an errand earlier.¡± Saying so, Saki glanced at the Chief Mechanic. ¡°W, Well, you were inside [Caliburn-Revive] the whole time. I wouldn¡¯t let anyone suspicious get close to this place after all.¡± The Chief Mechanic proudly replied without outing herself as said ¡®suspicious person¡¯. ¡°Ah, is that so. Thank you very much.¡± Kisei bowed and thanked the Chief Mechanic before turning his eyes back to Saki who somehow looked like she was in a good mood. Curious, Kisei asked her about it. ¡°¡­..by the way, what was the errand?¡± ¡°I was polishing [Dainsleif]. It¡¯s all shiny now you know? I will let you take a look later.¡± ¡°Oh, that¡¯s nice. I want to try cleaning mine too¡­¡­¡± Saying so, Kisei looks back at the [Caliburn-Revive]. Naturally, it¡¯s not dirty by any means since it has been thoroughly cleaned by the maintenance crew after each mission. Even so, dirt can still accumulate in small gaps. It¡¯s always nice to see your personal striker nice and clean. ¡°Give up the idea, if you do it yourself I can totally picture you slid off the armor. I will do it when I have free time.¡± ¡°Ah, I will help too. I don¡¯t sortie much these days so I¡¯m mostly free after all.¡± ¡°Oh, thanks.¡± Saki and the Chief Mechanic met eyes for a moment and smiled at each other. Then their expression suddenly changed and turned toward Kisei. ¡°Come to think of it, did you hear?¡± ¡°About what?¡± ¡°Today¡¯s dinner, it¡¯s gonna be beef bowl again.¡± ¡°Ehh¡­¡­¡± Kisei frowned at the dinner menu. Due to the lack of supplies, their meals have become extremely monotonous. They should be grateful that they still have something to eat but they still can¡¯t help but grow tired of eating the same old beef bowl over and over again. ¡°Beef bowl again? We had that for both breakfast and lunch already right.¡± ¡°Thinking about it now, all 3 meals yesterday were also beef bowls huh.¡± The frown was not just limited to Kisei but the Chief Mechanic as well. The beef bowl which is cheap and filling is the most popular ration for military personnel but it¡¯s too much having to eat the same thing every day. ¡°Ridiculous right? It¡¯s 6 meals in a row now. That¡¯s why, I came up with an idea.¡± ¡°What idea?¡± ¡°Simple. All we have to do is get our meal from someone who has something delicious hidden away for herself. In other words, let¡¯s pay a visit to our aristocrat prisoner.¡± With an evil expression, Saki declared her plan. CH 89 The Pervert MPs ¡°By the way, Earlier Her Highness told me not to go to [Her] room you know.¡± While walking in the corridor of the underground fortress, Kisei said that as though he¡¯s trying to make an excuse. ¡°She¡¯s probably just jealous again, don¡¯t worry about it.¡± Replied Saki as she looked back at him with a grin. [Her] in this context is, of course, Melange, the former commander of this fortress who was taken prisoner after her loss in a duel with Schleer the other day. The relationship between Schleer and Melange is not that good due to the circumstance they met each other in. Certainly, it wouldn¡¯t be a good feeling to let someone you love see a person like that. ¡°In the first place, that woman already has a fiance right? She¡¯s getting married soon so she wouldn¡¯t go out of her way to flirt with another man anyway.¡± In Vuld society where the number of men is extremely small, even aristocrats have a hard time getting married. As far as men are concerned, it is even common for a commoner man to suddenly get welcomed into a high-ranking aristocratic family as the son-in-law. With that being the case, no woman would actively cheat on their fiance when it¡¯s so hard to get engaged in the first place. ¡°Certainly, that person treats me quite normally. I¡¯m actually grateful for that too.¡± While playing with the vinyl wrap of the cup ramen he has in his hand for some reason, Kisei let out a small sigh. After all, in a society where just being a man made everyone treat you as someone special, it¡¯s impossible to not get tired out. ¡°Well, I don¡¯t really hate that kind of person. She might seem haughty but she always gives you something delicious after all.¡± ¡°Her Highness said that she was luring me with food but I think that it applies better to Makishima-san though.¡± ¡°Hahaha, leave me alone.¡± While having such a conversation, they arrived at their destination. The room where Melange was put under house arrest. There, two guards armed with rifles are standing watch outside the sturdy reinforced carbon door. When they approached, the guards observed them with keen eyes. ¡°Geh, it¡¯s these guys huh.¡± Saki cursed a little before leaving Kisei behind to go talk to the guards. ¡°Sorry, I¡¯m delivering this to the prisoner.¡± She said that while showing them the cup ramen in her hand. For better or worse, Melange is still a daughter of a great aristocratic house. Who would believe that she¡¯s delivering such a thing to someone like that? Thinking so, Kisei rolled his eyes. ¡°No, sorry but we also have our job to do. We can¡¯t let you pass so easily.¡± ¡°Ah, this is for you two.¡± Kisei pulled out two lollipops from the pocket of his flight jacket and handed them to the guards who received them with a smile. ¡°I was craving something sweet. Thanks.¡± ¡°As our thanks, let us give you a hug.¡± Of course, the guards didn¡¯t care about the candy. They just use gratitude as their excuse to hug Kisei. It was totally sexual harassment but there¡¯s no way around it. They are bribing them after all. Thinking so, Kisei endured the alternating hugs of the two guards whose expressions look like they are petting a cat. ¡°Damn¡­¡­if the MPs are like this then I don¡¯t have any hope left for the world.¡± Saki muttered in a small voice so that the guards wouldn¡¯t hear her. Surprisingly, they are wearing MP armbands. It should be an MP¡¯s job to hunt down those people with inappropriate behaviors here but their state is as you can see now. ¡°Hmm, a visit right? Wait a minute, I will go check.¡± After enjoying the hug for a while, one of the guards entered the room. At the same time, Saki grabs Kisei¡¯s sleeve and quietly moves him away from the door. She then speaks to him in a small voice. ¡°As I thought, let¡¯s just beat them up next time. They are starting to get ahead of themselves now. We better set an example out of them.¡± ¡°If they are going to let us pass with this much then it¡¯s a cheap price to pay though.¡± Saki was serious but Kisei shook his head sideways in reply. He¡¯s sick of it but they neither extort nor force their way with him. Something at this level happens quite frequently to him so he¡¯s already used to it. ¡°Even so, you¡¯re still a man¡­¡­¡± ¡°In the first place, wasn¡¯t it Makishima-san who invited me here though?¡± When Kisei argued back, Saki growls with a bitter expression. ¡°If the people watching guard aren¡¯t these guys they would let me through¡­¡­..it seems I¡¯m out of luck today, sorry.¡± Saki apologized with her wolf ears drooped down. ¡°Don¡¯t take it so seriously, I really don¡¯t mind it.¡± It was Kisei who was troubled instead since she seems so worried about it. Unlike the chaste and graceful Vuld males, Kisei doesn¡¯t usually turn down something at this level in the first place. ¡°Still, when they are being so blatant like this, it¡¯s kinda taking me by surprise though.¡± ¡°Unnnnn¡­¡­..: Saki groaned with her arms folded. As she thought, it¡¯s her fault that Kisei went through this. The next time she sees someone trying to pull this, she will immediately shut them down. Of course, since she knew that Kisei would try to persuade her otherwise, she didn¡¯t say it out loud. ¡°She said you can go in.¡± Then, a guard came out of the room. It seems that they asked for Melange¡¯s permission. ¡°Well, setting that aside, let¡¯s go get our meal. It¡¯s not going to be a beef bowl this time!¡± Kisei said in a cheerful voice as if trying to blow away the heavy atmosphere and walked toward the door. Saki followed him. ¡°¡­¡­¡­¡± On her way, she glared at the guards when they passed each other. However, they simply look back at her with a carefree expression. It seems that no occupation has thicker skin than the MP. ¡°Tsk.¡± After clicking her tongue, Saki entered the room. CH 90 Lover Boasting and Complaints ¡°You came again? You guys sure have a lot of free time huh.¡± Greeted Melange with an astonished expression. Since Kisei and Saki are the top ace of Calencia, Melange naturally knows about them. That being said, since they come to play at her room every single day, it probably can¡¯t be helped for her to think that they are not doing their work properly. ¡°There¡¯s no way around it right. The most the Noredians are doing these days is harassing us after all. We don¡¯t have a large-scale battle to fight in for a while now.¡± ¡°Coming from Diaroze-sama, her strategy this time is quite passive huh.¡± Saki speaks to her in a casual tone like she¡¯s talking to a friend. On the other hand Melange doesn¡¯t seem to mind her attitude even though she is a high-ranking noble. Apparently, the two were a good match and they strangely got along well with each other in this short period of time. ¡°Isn¡¯t she just scared? She did lose that badly to us the other day after all.¡± Saying so, Saki sits down on a chair placed in the center of the room with Kisei following suit. ¡°Then that would be an interesting sight. I would pay to see that haughty princess quivering in fear you know.¡± Melange has a nasty grin on her face. It seemed that being used as a disposable pawn does not sit well with her so she¡¯s feeling bitter toward her general. ¡°Well, that¡¯s fine and all. What do you want with me today?¡± ¡°I brought this for you. Here.¡± Kisei offered her a cup ramen. Receiving it, Melange reads the label with interest. ¡°Giga-sized Tonkotsu Ramen-Triple Garlic version? You guys, are you seriously trying to make me eat this?¡± ¡°It¡¯s fine right. Your fiance isn¡¯t here anyway.¡± ¡°That sounds like a line from a male lead in a third-rate melodrama¡­¡­this situation doesn¡¯t have any men¡¯s tempting sex appeal whatsoever though.¡± While groaning with a tired expression, Melange also sits down face-to face with Kisei. She then put the cup ramen on the table and looked at Kisei¡¯s face. ¡°You, the only thing worth boasting about you is your face so you should stop saying something like that to others you know. Some idiots might get the wrong idea after all.¡± ¡°Don¡¯t you have to be a genuine idiot to misunderstand something like this?¡± ¡°Wait, isn¡¯t our princess likely to get the wrong idea from such a line though.¡± ¡°Right!¡± Saki and Melange looked at each other and laughed out loud. Even though the person herself is not here, there should be a limit to how much they should make fun of her though. Thinking so, Kisei let out a small sigh. ¡°So, well, we want to trade something with you in exchange for this.¡± ¡°What, sweets again? Sure, I have a lot more after all.¡± Like a squirrel or a hamster, Melange stores a variety of food inside her room. It appears that she¡¯s quite a foodie. That must be why she is willing to accept this kind of trade. ¡°No, I was hoping that you have some kind of ration stored here.¡± ¡°Our ration today is beef bowl again you see. That¡¯s why we thought that we should bring something to trade with you.¡± ¡°Again? Haven¡¯t we been given only that for the past few days already!?¡± Melange frowned. Of course, since they are short on supplies, not only the soldiers but the prisoners have to put up with the same limited ration. The fact that Kisei has to eat a beef bowl again means that Melange will also have to eat the same thing. ¡°Seriously? Can¡¯t be helped then¡­..wait a minute.¡± Melange stood up after heaving a deep sigh. She then walked toward her closet where a large amount of food was hidden inside. Ten minutes later. A steaming steak and a jar of sauerkraut were placed in front of Kisei and Saki. Steak is a Vuld¡¯s soul food. Looking at the steak, Saki¡¯s expression looked like her face is melting. ¡°So you do have something good hidden here after all!¡± ¡°It¡¯s only a ready-made one though. Well, this should still be better than eating another beef bowl right.¡± Melange presented the steak like it was something cheap but this steak is made from organic beef that only rich aristocrats can buy. It surely will taste different from the synthetic meats spiced with cultured protein and seasonings. Naturally, even a royalty from a poor country like Calencia won¡¯t be able to get their hands on such a thing so regularly. ¡°Ready-made huh. Hmm? It¡¯s still organic right? This is amazing you know.¡± In front of this rare treat, Saki¡¯s tension was quite high and the complimented Melange also seems to be proud about it. ¡°Well, I am the next Marchioness of Mithra after all. Taking good care of the poor is a noble¡¯s duty right?¡± ¡°Man, as expected from a great noble! You have my respect!¡± ¡°WaHaHaHaHa! You don¡¯t have to praise me that much¡­¡­I will accept it though.¡± In truth, it felt extremely unfair for them to trade a cup ramen for 2 servings of organic steak but Melange allowed it in a good mood. She is certainly a type of person that you can easily get along with. Of course, the two did not hesitate to stick their forks into the steaks. Although it could also be considered an army ration, the steak is extremely delicious since it¡¯s a product aim for high-ranking aristocrats. ¡°It¡¯s delicious but, it¡¯s a little too big for me¡­¡­.¡± ¡°Seriously. That¡¯s a waste. You want me to finish it for you?¡± ¡°Sure. Have at it.¡± Even so, Kisei is relatively a light eater. He immediately ate his fill and Saki took over his leftovers. Seeing that, Melange made a bitter smile. ¡°You won¡¯t grow if you don¡¯t eat a lot you know?¡± ¡°Unfortunately, it seems that my growth period is already over.¡± Said Kisei while playing with the shredded sauerkraut with his spoon. The sour fermented cabbage gives just the right refreshing taste after a big meal. ¡°Well, that¡¯s true. You are actually tall for a man after all.¡± ¡°Is your fiance shorter than me?¡± ¡°Of course! He¡¯s tiny and cute you know, my fiance.¡± Melange replied happily when the topic of her fiance was brought up. For a while after that, she keeps boasting about her fiance. However, since she gave him a good meal, Kisei subconsciously listened to her seriously. ¡°So, that¡¯s why he¡¯s the best! I would be troubled if I don¡¯t get released in time for my wedding you know!¡± ¡°I guess that will be depending on how this war will go huh¡­¡­¡± Saki answers with a slightly fed-up look. Aristocratic POWs are usually released after their side pay a ransom but usually, such ransom negotiation would not begin until the end of the war. ¡°Thanks to a certain someone, the Calencian managed to obtain a one-sided victory in the previous battle after all! I don¡¯t know how the war will go now¡­¡­.¡± ¡°It¡¯s a job after all.¡± Kisei grinned at Melange who looked at him with a little displeased eyes. On the other hand, seeing his nonchalant attitude, Melange simply shrugs in return. ¡°Well, the one who was to blame the most is that Diaroze after all! Making us an accomplice in a terrible act like that!¡± Melange fumed up when she recalled the face of Diaroze. It seems that she really did object to the purge bombing Diaroze performed on civilians. Since she¡¯s willing to say this much about her general, it seems that a grudge toward Diaroze runs deep inside her. Seeing her, Kisei remembers Valentina¡¯s words. Valentina also detests Diaroze. Judging from this, as the supreme commander of an army, it seems that she is not that popular with her subordinates. ¡°It does feel different to hear that from someone from Nored. Come to think of it, Diaroze-sama is not well-liked inside the Nored army isn¡¯t she?¡± ¡°Well, yeah. Are you curious about that woman?¡± ¡°It seems that she considers me a threat on a strategic level after all¡­¡­.that¡¯s why I think that I would be more on the safe side if I at least learn something about her.¡± After all, the memory of the hardship he suffered from Diaroze¡¯s concentrated attack on Leboir is still fresh in his mind. ¡°I see. It¡¯s not good for me to spill information to the enemy but it would be even more annoying to see that woman acting all self-important after this¡­¡­I will tell you what you want to know.¡± Unexpectedly, Melange agrees to share information with them. It appears that her hatred toward Diaroze outweighed the unpleasantness of selling out her ally. CH 91 The Unpopular (Next) Empress ¡°Well, that being said¡­¡­.I did not serve directly under that woman so I don¡¯t really know much though.¡± ¡°Nored is a big country after all. Unlike Calencia, it doesn¡¯t seem that a high-ranking aristocrat necessarily has to be close with the royalty huh.¡± ¡°I guess so?¡± Melange ironically smiled at Saki¡¯s words. When it comes to a country as big as the Nored Empire, there are quite a few houses that hold peerages of dukes or marquis. Moreover, Melange herself is not yet the Marchioness. She¡¯s simply the heir to the family at the moment. At best, the only opportunities she has to meet with Diaroze would be on the battlefields or during parties. ¡°Well, for better or worse, Diaroze is a woman who usually stands out wherever she goes. Even if you don¡¯t have many opportunities to meet her directly, you should at least have heard some rumors about her before right.¡± ¡°I heard that she¡¯s being called the Undefeated Princess right. With a title like that, she should be quite a celebrity.¡± ¡°Well, she did lose to us last time though!¡± Saki added with a smile. Their big victory at Leboir helped boost a lot of morale for the Calencian soldiers who suffered defeat after defeat after all. ¡°Well, I can confirm that her ability is the real deal. But there are a lot of interesting stories about that woman too¡­¡­.¡± Saying so, Melange took out a wine glass from the basket on the table. Then, she urges Kisei with her glass. ¡°Anyway, pour me a drink. It¡¯s the information fee.¡± ¡°Yes, yes.¡± Kisei makes a bitter smile and takes out a bottle of wine from the basket. However, after he grabbed a corkscrew to uncork it, Saki immediately snatched the bottle from him. ¡°It would be bad if you injure yourself right.¡± ¡°Y, You are being overprotective again! Even I can uncork a wine bottle alright!?¡± ¡°Really?¡± With a grin, Saki quickly handled the bottle with practiced movement and removed the cork before returning it to Kisei. ¡°Here you go.¡± ¡°Nn, seriously, you always do this.¡± ¡°Don¡¯t fuss over it, let¡¯s get started.¡± Melange giggled at the scene and urged Kisei to pour her the wine. When her glass is filled with red liquid, a mellow scent begins to drift inside the room. With a nod of satisfaction, Melange took out another glass and offered it to Saki. ¡°So you do understand how things like this go huh.¡± ¡°Drinking alone is boring after all.¡± That being said, Saki did not make Kisei pour her the wine. She poured it herself and made a light toast with Melange before starting sipping it. By the way, Kisei, who can¡¯t handle alcohol, is drinking lemonade alone. ¡°Well, let¡¯s get back on the topic. Diaroze has a second nickname inside my country. Can you guess what it is?¡± ¡°Second nickname?¡­¡­..I don¡¯t have a clue.¡± ¡°She¡¯s called the [Loyal Dog]. In other words, she¡¯s the Empress¡¯s dog.¡± With that said, Melange let out a small laugh. ¡°She¡¯s a Yesman who follows whatever the Empress commands her to do. Whether how cruel or unreasonable an operation is, she has no objection to carrying it out. That¡¯s the reason behind her nickname.¡± ¡°That¡¯s surprising. When I heard the rumors about her, I thought that she would be an arrogant type who doesn¡¯t listen to anyone.¡± Still, for such a loyal person, the reputation she has is the worst. That being said, if he has to carry out such cruel and unreasonable orders then it probably can¡¯t be helped that she¡¯s detested¡­¡­. ¡°That is also true. Anyway, she¡¯s the type of person that would lash out if things don¡¯t go the way she wants¡­..she won¡¯t forgive anyone that gets in her way whether it¡¯s an ally or an enemy. On top of that, she¡¯s also a sadist who enjoys whipping POWs and subordinates that made a mistake. There¡¯s a mountain of bad rumors about her.¡± Melange said with a disgusted look. Every aristocrat is more or less arrogant. However, the arrogance Diaroze exhibit was excessive. ¡°Still, she always obeys Her Majesty¡¯s orders. No matter how petty or humiliating it is. Some even say that she¡¯s a woman who licked the Empress¡¯s feet to gain the succession right.¡± ¡°So she¡¯s both a prideful and obedient person at the same time huh. In that case, isn¡¯t she just using her subordinates as an outlet for her stress? ¡° Saki mockingly said so. She then finishes her glass of wine and continues. ¡°Besides, an aristocrat who abandoned their self-respect shouldn¡¯t be called an aristocrat anymore.¡± ¡°That¡¯s it! You are exactly right!¡± Melange immediately agreed and grabbed the bottle of wine to refill Saki¡¯s glass. ¡°You, you know what it is to be an aristocrat even though you are a commoner huh! Just abandon Calencia and come over to my territory!¡± ¡°Hahaha, I¡¯m thankful for the offer but this is my home so I can¡¯t abandon it. I have a family to go back to after all.¡± ¡°What a shame.¡± With a sigh, Melange pours herself another glass. She then returned the empty bottle to the basket. ¡°So, in conclusion¡­¡­Diaroze is a sadist with no dignity. A dangerous woman who you can¡¯t predict what she will do next. That being said, she is good at warfare exactly because of her unpredictable nature.¡± ¡°Warfare huh. Then how about her skill as a pilot? Is she comparable to those [4 Heavenly]?¡± ¡°No, you can¡¯t compare her to those guys¡­¡­.Still, you will have to be on guard against her. That woman, she won¡¯t hesitate to resort to dirty means even in striker battle after all. Compared to your average ace pilot, that woman is much more troublesome to deal with.¡± ¡°Hmmm¡­..¡± ¡®So around or slightly better than Valentina huh.¡¯ Kisei groaned with his arms crossed. Of course, if it¡¯s her that he has to deal with alone, he would have no problem. However, if she¡¯s the kind of person who would use dirty tactics then he needs to be cautious against her. If she appears along with the 4 Heavenly then she will no doubt be a troublesome opponent. ¡°Well¡­¡­albeit a rotten one, I am still a noble of Nored after all. I don¡¯t wish for the defeat of my own country. But since we¡¯ve already shared a drink together, I don¡¯t want to see you guys die either. Make sure that you don¡¯t die to that woman okay.¡± ¡°Of course. I¡¯m the [Wicked Star] after all. My victory is guaranteed no matter who I¡¯m up against!¡± In response to Melange¡¯s words, Kisei gave a confident reply. CH 92 The Hug ¡°Even at sea¡­¡­I still have nothing to do.¡± Kisei muttered while performing a big stretch. In front of him was a deep blue ocean. Other than the large number of Calencian ships sailing in platoons, there are no islands or man-made objects around them. ¡°You don¡¯t have to worry about that, we will carry out the operation tomorrow after all. I think you should enjoy your free time while you can, you know?¡± Schleer who was nearby said with a bitter smile. That being said, it¡¯s not just Kisei who¡¯s tired of this excessive free time. On the 1st deck, Kisei and Schleer are at, many crew members are working with a bored expression. The Calencian side is completely out of tune since there was no decent fight for a while now. ¡°That¡¯s true.¡± The Calencian fleet is currently heading toward another continent to capture the 2nd fortress. If this operation is successful, it should be much easier for them to take control over Senstera Prime. ¡°Still, sailing like this will easily make you feel lazy though. We should be able to get there in no time if we fly right.¡± ¡°We have to avoid enemy radar¡­..besides, on the ocean, it would be faster to sail you know. Flying just above the surface is slow and nerve-wracking after all.¡± Modern warships can fly in the sky using anti-gravity lifters and propulsion from their thrusters. However, it is not very wise to fly them because they were not designed to be aircraft. In the first place, making tens of thousands of tons of steel fly in the sky is already unreasonable in and of itself. That¡¯s why, on a planet with oceans, you often use sailing as the main means of transport for warships just like this. ¡°I already know that. Well, it can¡¯t be helped huh, something like this¡­¡­¡± Shrugging his shoulders, Kisei glanced to his side. At the stern of the ship, the crew members are carrying fishing rods. ¡°¡­¡­can they really catch anything though.¡± ¡°We are going pretty fast so I don¡¯t think so. It might be possible with a net though¡­¡­¡± ¡°Right.¡± Kisei giggled. Schleer also let out a small laugh but she immediately sighed afterward. Her out-of-shape soldiers are worrying her. It makes her think if it¡¯s really okay for them to continue like this. ¡°Certainly, this doesn¡¯t look good.¡± Kisei, who saw through her thoughts from her expression, said so while lazing around himself. However, Kisei is a mercenary who is accustomed to the battlefield so he¡¯s good at switching his moods. That being said, the same can not be said to the Calencian soldiers since this is their first actual war. ¡°Should I go admonish them?¡± ¡°Just because their superior tells them off doesn¡¯t mean that they can just switch to their serious mode you know.¡± ¡°Is that so¡­¡­¡± Just like Saki, Vuld soldiers often are free-spirited. Even if Schleer admonished them, her words wouldn¡¯t affect them much. ¡°Perhaps, this is also our enemy¡¯s aim. They might be waiting for us to relax our guard before attacking. It¡¯s a standard tactic right?¡± ¡°That sounds terribly plausible.¡± Schleer frowned. It¡¯s been a long time since they left the harbor but they have not met with any obstruction by Nored so far. According to the information they obtained, the enemy should have several submarines stationed on this planet. However, there has been no report of submarine sightings until now. Their situation couldn¡¯t be any more anxious. ¡°Their commander is not incompetent either. I can tell that much from what happened at Leboir. We should expect that she would try to do something that we don¡¯t want them to do the most.¡± ¡°Just in case, I¡¯ve issued an order to give maximum caution to underwater detection¡­¡­but if caution alone has that much effect then we wouldn¡¯t be pushed back so much in the first place though¡­¡­¡± The Nored army has both higher quality weapons as well as superior numbers. In addition, if their commander is also capable, the Nored is an opponent they need to be extremely cautious against. They need to come up with a countermeasure before their enemy can spring their trap. ¡°Somehow, I¡¯m getting anxious about this.¡± ¡°It¡¯s a quality of a good commander to be on guard against your opponent. That being said, too much worry will only slow you down you know.¡± ¡°Please, don¡®t flatter me.¡± Schleer¡¯s mouth cramped up at Kisei¡¯s words. ¡°Sorry, sorry.¡± Kisei replied with a smile. Feeling a bit jealous of his carefree attitude, Schleer turned away from him. The scene that lies beyond her was the clear blue ocean. ¡°¡­¡­.¡± A moment after, she turned back to Kisei and silently grabbed his hand. Just like that, she pushes Kisei into a dark corner. ¡°Eh, wha¡­..¡± When Kisei was still confused, Schleer hugged him. Feeling the soft sensation pressed against him through her military uniform, Kisei was surprised. ¡°I wanted, to see you look a little impatient.¡± After hugging him for about 10 seconds, Schleer released Kisei and said that. She pretended to be calm but her face was bright red. Her moist eyes stare straight into Kisei¡¯s. ¡°¡­..well, that did surprise me.¡± Kisei is used to sexual harassment but he didn¡¯t expect it to come from Schleer. He knows that she¡¯s a little bit of a pervert but until now she has never done anything directly to him before. ¡°I have a lot of worries you know. This battle is one I can¡¯t afford to lose, and there are so many rivals around you too.¡± ¡°Your Highness, that¡¯s¡­¡­¡± ¡®Even if she says that to him he can¡¯t do anything about that.¡¯ is what he wanted to say but Schleer put her finger in front of his lips and stopped him. ¡°Others always call me Your Highness this, Your Highness that¡­¡± ¡°So you want me to call you by your name?¡± ¡°Of course.¡± ¡°You really are helpless¡­¡­¡± Kisei lightly laughs. He understands that she wants to be closer to him. And in fact, he doesn¡¯t hate Schleer either. He likes seeing her giving her all into everything she does and it¡¯s fun to see her being an airhead sometimes. However, Kisei also wants to avoid getting himself killed during intercourse at all costs so he can¡¯t easily accept her advances either. ¡°So I can call you Schleer?¡± ¡°Yes. Please say it again.¡± ¡°Schleer.¡± With tears on the edge of her eyes, Schleer repeatedly nodded. If she gets this happy just by having her name called then it¡¯s even more embarrassing for Kisei to do so. ¡°Let¡¯s leave it at this for today! We have to return to the deck! I should be on standby in my cockpit so that I can go out at any time right.¡± When Kisei turns his heels and starts hastily walking away, Schleer chases after him. ¡°W, Wait for me!¡± Around the same time that the two were having such a youthful exchange, a strange object surfaced behind the Calencian fleet. It¡¯s hard to see because of the camouflage it has on but it looks like a small plastic buoy. The object appears to have many built-in cameras and its mechanical lens focus on the passing Calencian fleet¡­¡­ CH 93 Offense 1 The Calencia side carried out the operation as planned. After the fleet unloads the strikers and ground troops, they proceed toward the underground fortress in the inland area. Since this was their second landing operation, everything went smoothly. ¡°The enemy¡¯s resistance is strangely weak as always¡­¡­¡± Schleer muttered inside the cockpit of [Mistilteinn] as she continued making her way to the fortress. She is constantly checking the data sent by her vanguard unit on the sub-monitor but it appears that the vanguard has no trouble repelling back the enemy so far. Compared to the last landing operation, the enemy¡¯s resistance this time is even weaker. ¡°It smells like a trap doesn¡¯t it.¡± ¡°Should we withdraw for the time being? If they launch their attack, it might be bad if our main force and our fleet are separated after all.¡± ¡°That is true but¡­¡­¡± Schleer growls with an unpleasant expression. She then checks the surrounding area using the topographic map and lets out a small sigh. She knew from the planning stage that it would be a bad move to separate the main force from the fleet. However, there is a good reason why she ordered her troops to push on despite the risks. ¡°We won¡¯t be able to do anything if we head back to the fleet now. Our fleet has no safe route to reach the underground fortress anyway so we must do this by ourselves.¡± The terrain around here is rough so if their ships that have poor maneuverability have to fly at low altitude, it¡¯s more than likely that their hulls will be damaged by the protruding rocks. On the other hand, if they decide to fly at a high altitude to avoid the rock formation, the enemy will be able to concentrate their attack on the fleet. ¡°Right now our best course of action is to capture the fortress as soon as possible and use the defense equipment there to repel the enemies in the surrounding area. Our staff has taken many scenarios into account but one this one is the strategy that gives up the highest chance of winning¡­¡­¡± This strategy was also approved by the Chief of Staff. It is close to a gamble but since Schleer herself can¡¯t think of anything better, she decided to go with it. ¡°So, the enemy might be aware of that so they are deploying such a blatant defensive strategy huh? Normally, if they plan to lure us in, they should put up more of a resistance though.¡± ¡°I think so as well. It¡¯s like they are looking down on us¡­¡­..this is pretty irritating, to be honest.¡± Schleer responded to Saki in a frustrated tone. That being said, if they already anticipated that the enemy is laying a trap for them, they can just deal with it. The fact that the three Zeniths including Kisei¡¯s are not leading the charge was to prepare for such surprise attacks. ¡°Well, if they went out of their way to lay a trap for us all we need to do is crush them. Right, Hokuto.¡± ¡°Exactly.¡± Kisei happily replied to Saki¡¯s enthusiastic words. One of her good points is that she¡¯s not the kind of person that would be discouraged by a situation like this. ¡°What our enemy wants to do is divide us and take us out one by one. In other words, they do not want to fight us head-on. If something happens, we need to be prepared to group up immediately¡­¡­.¡± Schleer checked the map again. So far, none of her troops are rushing too far ahead or straying from the group. They are marching in an orderly fashion. ¡°For now, let¡¯s see how our opponent is going to play their hand. I¡¯m sure that they will start soon.¡± About an hour later, Schleer¡¯s prediction was proved to be correct. ¡°Enemy incoming! Multiple heat signatures detected 120km to the southeast! It¡¯s a striker unit, ma¡¯am!¡± Schleer narrowed her eyes at her soldier¡¯s panicked report. The surrounding terrain is a mountainous area with large trees that were over 20 meters high. A great location to plant an ambush. Currently, they can only confirm the presence of hundreds of strikers using the data-linked tactical map. It¡¯s likely that there are still enemies that they still haven¡¯t detected yet. ¡°As I thought, they blocked the path behind us.¡± The location of the detected enemies is right behind them. Leaving strikers aside, their multi-legged tanks can not put out any more speed in this kind of mountainous area. Their enemy will catch up to them soon. ¡°If they are playing this by the book then there will surely be enemies lurking ahead of us as well.¡± ¡°No doubt about that, they must be trying to launch a pincer attack on us¡­¡­¡± ¡°Our vanguard has encountered the enemy! It appears that an enemy unit consisting mainly of multi-legged tanks is blocking the path ahead, ma¡¯am!¡± ¡°See.¡± Schleer¡¯s expression turned severe. Their vanguard is engaging the enemy tanks. If it¡¯s like this then their main force is practically being sandwiched by the enemy. ¡°It would be bad if we turned our back to them but¡­¡­.it would be worse if they cut off our retreat and supply route. The 4th and 7th brigades are to intercept the enemy on our rear¡­¡­.your designated name is now Group-A. Artillery unit prepares to fire. We will crush the enemy before they can deploy a more sturdy unit behind us.¡± ¡°Roger!¡± ¡°The remaining units are to prepare to move. We have to prevent the enemy in front from pushing Group-B, our vanguard while being ready to support Group A behind us.¡± With swift judgment, Schleer issued her orders. As long as she can not see the enemy¡¯s overall formation, there¡¯s not much she can do at the moment. That¡¯s why she decided on a wait-and-see approach. ¡°What about me?¡± ¡°Please don¡¯t move out yet. There are many enemy units that we have to look out for like the Imperial Knights and the 4 Heavenly. We have to preserve our trump card for now.¡± Kisei is probably someone that the Nored side is most on guard against. It is necessary to avoid exhausting him as much as possible in preparation for the enemy elite units. ¡°¡­¡­if it¡¯s just the ammunition then I can just grab it from the enemy though?¡± The particle magazines used by the Noredian and Calencian are different types but they should be interchangeable using the conversion adapter. They can just take the enemy¡¯s rifle as well. ¡°Even if we don¡¯t have to worry about ammunition, the amount of propellant and your physical endurance is limited. Our army can not win this without you. I understand your feelings but¡­¡­.please stay put for now.¡± ¡°¡­¡­.Alright, I understand. I will do as you say, Schleer.¡± After thinking over it for a moment, Kisei agreed. If the general is ordering him to stay put then he can¡¯t just run off and fight after all. ¡°Thank you.¡± While glancing sideways at Schleer from the cockpit of [Dainsleif], Saki pouted a little at how Kisei called Schleer by name. CH 94 Offense 2 ¡°Good, all according to schedule.¡± Diaroze muttered with a grin inside the headquarters she set up in a field fortification. A large monitor set up in front of her is displaying a map with the locations of both her ally and enemy on it. ¡°For the time being, have the artillery units pin them there.¡± ¡°But Your Highness, their current location is a mountainous area with dense forest. Won¡¯t the artillery strikes be less effective in such a terrain?¡± Her staff raised a question. The mobile artillery units which are the main source of their firepower in this operation can fly and the multi-legged tanks which are equipped with rocket artillery also have enough mobility to thread through difficult terrain. If they move in, they should be able to land more effective shots. ¡°You think I don¡¯t know that?¡¯ ¡°¡­.N, no, I would never doubt that, Your Highness.¡± Being glared at by Diaroze, the staff started sweating cold. After Diaroze strokes her favorite whip, she deliberately heaves a sigh. ¡°To put it briefly, I¡¯m satisfied as long as we can pin them there. If we keep bombarding them constantly for a few days, their morale will surely plummet. We can just send in our main force after that.¡± ¡°I, I see¡­¡­so it is all according to your plan, Your Highness.¡± Diaroze was trying to convince her staff but on the inside, she is also against this tactic which could be said to be in contrast to Vuld aristocratic value. Relying on artillery is the cowardly way of the commoners. For an aristocrat, obtaining a spectacular victory through a frontal assault is ideal. However, Diaroze¡¯s tactics tend to be roundabout as of late and dissatisfaction toward such tactics is widespread among her subordinates. ¡°That being said, I must praise our enemy for stopping their advance. If they had pushed a little bit further, they would have been caught in our line of defense already.¡± No longer paying any mind to her subordinate, Diaroze was impressed at the formation of the enemy which is being displayed on the map. The glowing dots that represent the Calencian troops have stopped moving to deal with the Noredian force before retreating back to the mountainous area where they built their own field fortification. ¡°I expected there to be some reckless fools among them rushing toward our position. Maybe we launched our attack too quick huh¡­¡­¡± The Noredian line of defense consists of row after row of trenches and pillboxes stretching over the horizon. In addition to that, they also have some units camouflage themselves in the forest. If they had pushed in, Diaroze might have finished them already¡­¡­. ¡°Well, whatever. This way the heavy artillery I placed here won¡¯t go to waste. Keep it raining on them like this.¡± ¡°Yes, Your Highness!¡± After looking satisfactorily at her subordinates who began to give instructions to the frontline units, Diaroze looked toward another of her subordinates, the officer in charge of monitoring the Calencian Fleet. ¡°By the way, how¡¯s their fleet doing?¡± ¡°No change so far, Your Highness. They¡¯ve already anchored at the landing point and built a small base on the beach.¡± Unlike the frontline, the situation of the Calencian fleet is still peaceful. However, they still have their mission to protect the withdrawal point and maintain the supply route. The unloaded supplies are being sent to the frontline using hover trucks and other similar vehicles. They are also being escorted by the striker unit originally in charge of protecting the fleet. The Nored side tried to attack them several times already but every attack was repelled by them. ¡°Alright, let¡¯s mess with them a bit. Contact our submarine in charge of monitoring them. Tell them to sink a couple of their auxiliary ships.¡± ¡°Are we not going to mobilize [that fleet], Your Highness? If we attack them at this timing, I think we should be able to deal critical damage to their fleet¡­¡­¡± ¡°Not yet. Even if we caused some damage to them, there would be no point if we let our main targets getaway. Right now, we are simply going to place some pressure on them first.¡± ¡°Understood.¡± Although the officer did not look convinced, she obediently did as she was told. Immediately after that, an encrypted message from the headquarters reached the submarine lurking under the war near the mainland. ¡°Hmm¡­¡­.¡± The captain of the submarine who saw the encrypted message groaned in a small voice. ¡°It¡¯s an attack order. Load the torpedo tube No.1 through 8. Our target is¡­¡­I guess that destroyer should do huh. Punch in the coordinates.¡± ¡°Finally. I was afraid that we would be forced to keep monitoring them forever.¡± Her adjutant shrugged. This submarine has been monitoring the Calencian fleet ever since it left the harbor. ¡°It would have been a little exciting if they found us though.¡± ¡°They must have never been trained to combat submarines before. I guess the country bumpkins are all like this¡­¡­¡± Seeing her vice-captain saying that with a mocking smile, the captain also laughs. ¡°Even so, this [Blair] is a state-of-the-art submarine. They won¡¯t be able to spot us so easily.¡± This new submarine which combines the use of a fusion reactor and water jet propulsion is extremely quiet in the first place. With state-of-the-art camouflage equipped, it can even deceive active sonar. There¡¯s no way that the Calencian army would be able to detect them with their second-rate equipment. ¡°Torpedoes loaded!¡± ¡°I¡¯ve put in the coordinates, ma¡¯am. We can fire at any time.¡± ¡°Good, fire!¡± With the Captain¡¯s order, eight torpedoes were fired from the bow of the submarine. The Calencian side did not notice that torpedoes were heading straight toward their anchored ships until they reached close proximity. ¡°Torpedoes! Get us up!¡± ¡°Where did they come from!¡± Without even the time to lift the anchor, the Calencian destroyer hurriedly activated the anti-gravity lifter and ascended to the air. However, that is not enough to escape the torpedoes. Detecting the ship¡¯s ascension, the torpedoes switched from water jet to rocket propulsion. Like flying fishes, they soar out of the water with powerful acceleration and pierced themselves into the hull of the destroyer. Immediately after that, a number of huge pillars of fire rose from the impact. ¡°Alright, let¡¯s withdraw. After an attack like this, they should be able to tell our location after all.¡± ¡°Roger that. Rapid turn.¡± Without confirming the battle result, the submarine quietly left the scene. CH 95 Offense 3 Two days later. The Calencian main force is still being pinned by Diaroze¡¯s bombardment and despite the mountainous area providing cover for them, no army would be able to advance properly when they are being bombarded day and night like this. ¡°The submarine attacked again!? This is already the third time you know!¡± In that situation, Schleer was yelling at the radio. Her [Mistilteinn] is now crouching in a makeshift trench. Even though the shells are not likely to hit them given the area they are in, it was still necessary for them to prepare an improvised trench in case their enemy got lucky. ¡°What¡¯s the damage?¡­¡­..One destroyer? So you managed to sink one of their ships in the counterattack¡­¡­I see, I understand. For the time being, please give priority to rescue the survivors.¡± With a sigh, Schleer cut the communication to her fleet. Since the beginning of the battle, there have been many multiple attacks from the enemy submarines. The damage is by no means large but it is not negligible either. It doesn¡¯t sit well with her when their rear is being pressured like this. ¡°As I thought, our situation is not so good. We are wasting both our time and supplies¡­¡­¡± Another sigh escaped her with the sound of shells raining constantly around her. With each thunderous sound of the enemy artillery cannon, Schleer keeps getting more and more depressed. ¡°Even so, this is not a situation where we can push forward either right. For them to have this many artillery cannons in place means that they must have set up all kinds of defense ahead of us after all.¡± Said Kisei whose [Caliburn-Revive] was also crouching next to Schleer. With the use of strikers, digging a trench big enough to fit a few strikers is no big deal and currently, most of the Calencian troops are taking cover inside such make-shift trenches. ¡°That is true. I¡¯m sure that they must have already set up plenty of trenches and pillboxes ahead of us. This is a mess.¡± ¡°Anyway, I think that it would be better if we scout ahead first. If possible we should take out as many of their cannons as possible too.¡± The sound from the constant bombardment was so loud that he couldn¡¯t sleep properly at night. The Calencian force is also trying to fight back but with such a difference in firepower, they are not making any good progress. ¡°Certainly, if we use the forest as our cover then you should be able to get close to their camp but¡­..won¡¯t that be too dangerous?¡± ¡°Well, yeah. That¡¯s why I¡¯m going to do it myself.¡± Schleer thought over Kisei¡¯s proposal. It is true that they only have a few moves left if they let the situation go on like this. Perhaps this is when she has to make use of her trump card. ¡°I understand. Please do. Lt. Makishima, can I ask you to support him?¡± As expected, Schleer can not afford to leave her troops here and infiltrate the enemy position with Kisei in a situation like this. That¡¯s why she suppressed her urge to do so and asked Saki to accompany him. ¡°Alright. Please leave him to me.¡± Naturally, she received a reliable answer from Saki. Saki herself is nervous about their current predicament as well but rather than sitting still while the enemy continues to bombard their position, she would rather take the risk to bring the fight to the enemy. ¡°If something goes wrong, please come back immediately, okay?¡± ¡°Yes, yes.¡± Kisei and Saki jumped out of the trench while smiling at Schleer who was saying something like a mother seeing off her children. With the forest being crowded with large trees that were much taller than your average striker, the terrain provided perfect cover for them to hide from the enemy¡¯s eyes. ¡°A raid!? Can we go with you!?¡± ¡°Kisei-kun! Look this way!¡± Communication came in one after another from the Calencian pilots taking cover around them. They all range from warlike cheering to frivolous fangirling. Despite the situation, they seem to be full of spirit. This is the result of their desire to not show a pathetic figure in front of him. Contrary to Diaroze¡¯s expectations, the morale of the Calencian troops was still high. While replying to them one by one, Kisei proceeded further into the forest. To avoid enemy detection, Kisei did not fly and continued carefully making his way through the forest while avoiding the trees. ¡°So, what¡¯s the plan? We have no idea where the enemy artillery units are lurking right.¡± On flat terrain, they can pinpoint the location of the enemy artillery using counter-battery radar but that is not the case in a mountainous area like this. Furthermore, the Noredian is using advanced electronic warfare equipment that interferes with their search equipment. That¡¯s the reason why it is so difficult to launch a counteroffensive against them. ¡°For now, let¡¯s head north. If I can get closer then I should be able to tell where they are from their presence after all.¡± ¡°You really are like a human radar, you know. How convenient.¡± Saki said that but her voice did not sound envious of his ability. When such an ability comes with a big disadvantage that might hinder your ability to fight like the sensitivity to the death of others then obviously, such an ability doesn¡¯t sound that good to her anymore. ¡°Well, it is. Especially in a battle like this. Guerrilla warfare is my specialty, you know.¡± ¡°Then I will leave the lead to you. With you in front, the enemy won¡¯t be able to take us by surprise after all.¡± ¡°We still need to use some force to break through them though. I¡¯m not a ninja after all. Besides, it would be unreasonable for us to try making our way to their artillery without being found in the first place.¡± ¡°Well, rather than a ninja, I¡¯m a samurai after all. I¡¯d prefer forcing our way through them rather than sneaking around too.¡± ¡°Agreed. ¡­¡­.well, we definitely won¡¯t be able to avoid a fight inside enemy territory. Let¡¯s give them a flashy show, Makishima-san.¡± Kisei said that to Saki with a grin but in response, Saki¡¯s lips straightened into a thin line. The memory of how Kisei calls Schleer by her name is still fresh in her mind. ¡°¡­¡­You know, we¡¯ve already become friends with each other, right? Let¡¯s stop being so stiff around each other.¡± ¡°Eh? Somehow, I feel like this happened a lot to me these days huh¡­¡­.¡± Both Valentina and Schleer asked him the same thing. Personally, Kisei thinks that it doesn¡¯t really matter how he calls them though¡­¡­.. ¡°Then, Makishima?¡± ¡°Just call me Saki. You have an older sister right? It¡¯s confusing so I will call you Kisei instead of Hokuto too.¡± ¡°My sister isn¡¯t here so calling me Hokuto should be fine though¡­¡­.¡± ¡°I might meet her someday right!!¡± ¡°Sure¡­¡­.¡± Since there¡¯s no point arguing with Saki just before they are going into battle, Kisei sighed and let it pass. CH 96 Encounter, the Heavenly Blade ¡°Your Highness! A report has come in from the 666th artillery regiment! They said that they were attacked by a striker that appears to be a Zenith! All of their cannons were destroyed, ma¡¯am!¡± ¡°Eh!? Ugh, cough COUGH!!¡± Suddenly receiving such a report from her subordinate, Diaroze choked on her green tea. After she waited a while for her cough to settle down, Diaroze immediately slammed her teacup on the table and shouted. ¡°Isn¡¯t the 666th regiment located right next to the headquarters!!? Why is there a Calencian striker in such a place!?¡± ¡°T, that is still unclear, ma¡¯am!¡± The operator shakes her head sideways while looking like she was about to cry. However, when Diaroze was glaring at her, another operator raised her voice while still looking at her monitor. ¡°Actually, in the past several hours there have been 3 occasions where the communication with our patrol units was suddenly cut off. Perhaps, they had all been taken out¡­¡­.?¡± ¡°Why, Why, WHY DID YOU NOT REPORT SUCH AN IMPORTANT THING TO ME!?¡± ¡°B, But¡­¡­Your Highness was in the bath so¡­¡­we did not want to interrupt¡­.¡± Diaroze enjoys taking a long bath. She would take one for hours if she has free time. Since there has been no decent counterattack from the Calencia side, she was off her guard. Naturally, if such an important report comes in or if there¡¯s a sudden change in the battle situation then she would immediately jump out of the bath though¡­¡­.¡­.. ¡°Rather than interrupting my bath, neglecting to report such key information like that is obviously way worse you fool!!!¡± ¡°My deepest apology!!¡± Diaroze herself was ready to jump out of her bath anytime but her subordinates were being overly mindful because of her usual intimidating attitude. It might be correct to say that she reaped what she sow but from her point of view, this kind of negligence by her subordinates is not something she can just accept. Thinking so, Diaroze grits her teeth. ¡°For a Zenith to attack such a place, there¡¯s no doubt that the pilot is that Hokuto Kisei¡­¡­..¡± Diaroze raises her teacup with her trembling hand. After she sips on the green tea, she mutters something in a voice that is inaudible to her subordinates. ¡°I didn¡¯t expect him to get so close to this place but if he¡¯s here alone then that means he is away from their main force. This is a good opportunity. Alright!¡± Turning around with a grin on her face, Diaroze instructed the operator nearby to connect a communication line to a certain unit. ¡°We are commencing the operation! All ships surface! Commence the attack according to the plan!¡± That was all she said before cutting off the communication. She then silently sticks her empty teacup toward her chamberlain. The chamberlain immediately pours her a refill and without saying any thank, Diaroze puts the cup to her mouth again. ¡°HOT!¡­¡­.EII! Don¡¯t look at me, Fools! Anyway, we will be proceeding to the second stage of the operation. Get the Imperial Knights ready for sortie!¡± ¡°Yes, ma¡¯am!¡± The headquarters suddenly grew noisy. The bombardment they have been performing so far was only the first stage of the operation. And the condition for the second stage has been met. Now it is time to commence it. ¡°Report coming in from the 964th artillery regiment! It appears that they are being attacked by a Zenith as well, ma¡¯am! They can¡¯t deal with the enemy with their available force! They are requesting immediate backup!¡± ¡°HAAAAA!? Isn¡¯t that even closer than the last one!?¡± The place that the 964th artillery regiment was stationed at is not that far from the headquarters. With the mobility of a striker, it¡¯s a distance that they can cover in an instant. Even though the headquarters was fortified with reinforced concrete and regenerative armor, it was only a hastily made field fortification. A concentrated attack from multiple strikers would be enough to take it down. Knowing that, cold sweat started to trail down Diaroze¡¯s forehead. ¡°Your Highness, your striker is ready to sortie!¡± ¡°U, Umu, good work.¡± Although it¡¯s a Vuld¡¯s norm for a commander to head out in a striker and sort out the situation themselves, Diaroze is not confident that she can deal with a monster like Kisei. That¡¯s why Diaroze¡¯s mind started working at full capacity to find a reason to avoid the sortie. ¡°¡­¡­C, come to think of it, Tersis was on standby for sortie right. A disgrace of the 4 Heavenly ought to be washed away by those of the 4 Heavenlys. I will give her that opportunity.¡± ¡°C, Certainly¡­¡­¡± Ignoring her subordinates who were clearly disappointed, Diaroze stood up with a communication terminal in hand. She then leaves the room without telling anyone her reason. Some tried to chase after her but they were all stopped by another staff member who was afraid that they would be reprimanded later. ¡°Tersis, Can you hear me!¡± Diaroze who entered into a deserted meeting room call one of the 4 Heavenly¡­¡­Tersis, the Heavenly Blade. ¡°What is it? Is it finally my turn?¡± ¡°The mercenary has appeared. Your order is to intercept him.¡± ¡°Hou¡­¡­.¡± Tersis¡¯s voice was clearly mixed with an overt joy. With her battle junkie tendency, she¡¯s looking forward to fighting a person who had fought one of her 4 Heavenly colleagues¡­¡­.Kisei who easily repelled Nora. ¡°So be it, I¡¯m heading out. Leave him to me.¡± ¡°Wait, Wait!¡± Diaroze, who got the feeling that Tersis was about to cut off their communication, stopped her in a hurry. Given Kisei¡¯s extraordinary combat power, there is a possibility that even Tersis will be defeated. If more than one of the 4 Heavenly suffers defeat at his hand, the morale of her army will plummet. That¡¯s why she wants her side to be prepared as much as they can before taking on Kisei seriously. ¡°This time all you need to do is drive him away! The real battle will be when every one of the 4 Heavenlys is ready to take him on at the same time.¡± ¡°Are you looking down on me!?!¡± Tersis shouted in a very disappointed tone. Her voice sounded like a child whose candy has been taken from them. ¡°Just get him away from the headquarters! He will withdraw soon anyway. I have already worked on that¡­¡­.. Don¡¯t worry, I promise I will let you fight him to your heart¡¯s content later.¡± ¡°Ugh¡­..understood. Don¡¯t go back on your words now, okay?¡± Without waiting for a reply, Tersis cut the communication. On the other hand, Diaroze who was left alone heaved a heavy sigh. ¡°I am supposed to be the next empress you know? Why do I have to be treated like this¡­¡­.¡± CH 97 Encounter, The Heavenly Blade 2 ¡°Your Highness!¡± Over a dozen artillery cannons that were neatly set up in an open basin are being destroyed by just two Zeniths. The strikers operating these cannons as well as their escort strikers are fighting back but they could not put up much of a fight. Within less than 10 minutes, the inside of the basin was transformed into a scrapyard. ¡°WaHaHa! Big Catch, Big Catch!¡± Saki was loudly laughing as she fired her submachine gun at a cannon. The cannon was only equipped with minor debris protection so the 30mm armor-piercing rounds of her submachine gun easily pierced through it. Its engine was immediately destroyed and the high-voltage capacitor exploded. ¡°That¡¯s the last one¡­¡­!¡± Almost at the same time, Kisei destroyed another cannon with his anti-ship grenade launcher. The powerful explosion also blew away the striker that was operating it. ¡°Uwaah!¡± ¡°W, Who are these guys¡­..!¡± The pilot of a [Vil] which was a part of the unit escorting the artillery regiment, pulled out a photon saber mounted on its back. With it being a newer model, its speed was considerably faster than the others. Moreover, in addition to the ground warfare specific equipment, the [Jettas] are also providing support fire from behind as she charged at Kisei. ¡°You are good¡­¡­but!¡± Kisei grinned and stepped on the pedal while parrying the bullets with his photon saber. A trail of blue flame erupts from the thruster and the white giant flies toward the charging [Vil]. ¡°Damn you!¡± The [Vil]¡¯s pilot was not surprised by Kisei¡¯s unexpected movement and swung her large-sized photon saber down to intercept Kisei. ¡°HAA!¡± However, Kisei blocked the strike with his own photon saber before piercing the abdomen of the [Vil] that lost its posture. The [Jettas] in the rear started to panic at the [Vil]¡¯s defeat but before they could do anything, [Dainsleif] approached them at full speed by utilizing the sub-thrusters on its cloak-like extra armor and cut them all down. ¡°Nice Assist!¡± ¡°Hell yeah! Who do you think I am!¡± Receiving Kisei¡¯s praise, Saki replied with a big smile. Since she was stuck hiding behind cover for the past few days, there¡¯s no way that she would not enjoy this. ¡°D, Damn it¡­¡­what do we do!?¡± ¡°All of our cannons are destroyed, there¡¯s no use staying here anymore right! Do you think we can do anything against these monsters!?¡± After seeing Kisei and Saki casually taking their whole unit out, the Nored side finds it hard to attack them. This is the kind of monster that would wipe the floor with them even if they surround them and launch their attack at the same time. Moreover, after seeing the fate of the [Vil] who attacked Kisei earlier, no one dared to move in and attract attention to themselves. ¡°What do you want to do, do we cut them all down?¡± ¡°With the two of us alone it would be impossible to take them all out. We have to do it moderat¨C¡­..Hmm!¡± Kisei stopped mid-sentence and looked up at the sky with an elated expression. A vermillion striker which is even redder than the standard paint of Noredian strikers is approaching their location. ¡°New enemy?¡± ¡°Judging from the presence, this once is quite skilled. One of those 4 Heavenlys I think.¡± While keeping his gaze on the enemy, Kisei mounted the anti-ship grenade launcher back to the hardpoint on the [Caliburn-Revive]¡¯s back. Instead, he pulled out a blaster rifle and removed its magazine. He then pulled out the particle cable from the extra-large magazine mounted on the sleeve of the [Caliburn-Revive] and inserted it into the rifle. ¡°Kept you waiting huh!¡± The vermillion striker landed in the middle of the basin while blowing its thrusters. The voice that came through the public channel sounded like it belonged to a confident young woman. ¡°Tersis-sama!¡± ¡°She¡¯s here! Our knight is here! The victory is ours!¡± The Noredian soldiers cheered. Among the 4 Heavenlys that are known as the Nored¡¯s strongest, Tersis is the most popular one among the soldiers. ¡°Leave this place to me. You can withdraw now.¡± According to Tersis¡¯s words, the Noredian soldiers withdrew without raising any complaints. After all, a monster should be dealt with by a monster. Understanding that there¡¯s nothing they can do here, the soldiers removed themselves from the battlefield. ¡°You must be the rumored mercenary right? My name is Tersis van Melemheim. One of the 4 Heavenlys, the [Heavenly Blade].¡± The red striker unsheathed a long sword from the scabbard on its waist and pointed it at the [Caliburn-Revive]. ¡°That¡¯s right. I¡¯m the one called [Wicked Star], Hokuto Kisei.¡± While answering briefly, Kisei inspected his opponent¡¯s striker. While it has the splendor of a knight in full-body armor, the only weapon he spotted on it was its longsword and a large kite shield fixed to its left arm. It is probably a heavy-armored-type striker specialized in close-quarter combat. ¡°I was expecting you. I heard that you took care of our Lady Nora the other day. Against an opponent who easily repelled someone like her, I do not expect this to be a boring fight. I was actually looking forward to this, you know.¡± ¡°Nora? Ahh, that one.¡± Recalling the dual-wielding gunslinger striker he fought the other day, Kisei¡¯s grip on the control stick lightly tightened. ¡°Is she doing well? I was being careful not to hurt her back then.¡± ¡°Of course. She is burning for revenge you know.¡± ¡°Is that so. That makes it worth letting her go.¡± Hearing Kisei¡¯s joyful reply, Tersis¡¯s expression turned elated as she found a person that derives joy from battles similar to her. She then let out a muffled laugh. ¡°Good¡­¡­.GOOD. My [Van Wolf] shall be your opponent!¡± Without looking away from Tersis¡¯s striker, Kisei who¡¯s burning with fighting spirit speaks to Saki. ¡°Sorry, but can you watch my back for me? We are in the middle of enemy territory so I don¡¯t know when some nasty reinforcement would arrive after all.¡± There are three more in the 4 Heavenlys. Even Kisei would find it difficult to deal with all of them at the same time. ¡°Can¡¯t be helped then. I got it. I will make sure no one interrupts your fight.¡± Against a strong opponent, fighting her together would be better. However, since it seems that their opponent wishes for a one-on-one fight, Kisei is willing to go along with her. Having no other choice, Saki decided to watch his back. ¡°Ignoring me huh¡­..don¡¯t blame me if you get cut down when you show an opening alright.¡± However, Saki was also irritated at how Tersis completely ignored the [Dainsleif] so she muttered that in a small voice that was not picked up by the microphone. CH 98 Encounter, the Heavenly Blade 3 Tersis¡¯s vermillion-dyed Zenith, [Van Wolf] blew a big trail of flame as it charged toward Kisei. With it being one of the Nored¡¯s best, the [Van Wolf] is speeding toward him like a cannonball. ¡°You are specialized in melee, but neglecting long-range weapons is just being overconfident!¡± The [Van Wolf] only carries a longsword and a shield. Its appearance doesn¡¯t suggest that it has other built-in weapons either. Many strikers are designed to be specialized in some area but Kisei has never seen one that is so thoroughly specialized like this. However, that doesn¡¯t mean that he can let his guard down. The reason behind her choice to forego all ranged weapons and pilot such an extremely specialized striker is probably the confidence that she can take down any enemy without relying on one. ¡°And I don¡¯t have to play by your rules¡­¡­!¡± That being said, he has no reason to fight her at her specialized range. Kisei fired his blaster rifle in rapid succession. While a barrage of green beams flies toward [Van-Wolf], Kisei was retreating at full speed. ¡°As I thought!¡± However, the beams were all blocked by the kite shield. The beams did not even leave a scratch on the hawk emblem painted on the shield. It appears to be quite a sturdy one. ¡°That peashooter won¡¯t do you any good!¡± ¡°An 8.5Mw rifle is supposed to be in the high-power category alright! While arguing about such a thing, the distance between the two strikers quickly shrank. Even with the disadvantage of moving backward, there¡¯s an unfillable gap between the thrust power of [Caliburn-Revive] and [Van Wolf]. ¡°Let¡¯s see what you¡¯ve got!¡± The slash Tersis unleashed was too sharp to be only a test. A half-baked pilot would be cut in half already. ¡°That was fast!¡± Kisei parried it with his photon saber. Even though he properly blocked the slash, the left arm that¡¯s holding the photon saber bounced back from the impact. This shows the tremendous amount of strength behind a blow from [Van Wolf]. ¡°An extra heavy blow huh! Nice!¡± ¡°Got you!¡± Tersis tries to hit [Caliburn-Revive] when it lost its posture from the earlier blow with her shield but Kisei has already read that and kicked off the shield¡¯s center of gravity to jump up instead. ¡°Wha¡­¡­!¡± The [Caliburn-Revive] somersaulted in the air. The muzzle of the anti-ship grenade launcher on the [Caliburn-Revive]¡¯s back pointing at [Van Wolf]. Seeing that, Tersis felt a chill run down her back and immediately stepped on the foot pedal. The moment after, the missile from the grenade launcher exploded where the [Van Wolf] was standing and a storm of pebbles struck its vermillion armor. ¡°Kuh!¡± When the [Van Wolf] deployed an anchor on one leg to stop itself from being blown away, Kisei¡¯s wire gun was already hooked on it. Using the reeling mechanism, the [Caliburn-Revive] immediately closes the distance while firing its blaster rifle at [Van Wolf]. ¡°What!?¡± Tersis grit her teeth while defending herself from the beams with her shield but she left herself open to Kisei who has already attached a bayonet to his rifle and is rushing at her at full speed. ¡°Tsk!¡± She barely managed to defend herself with the shield again but Kisei has already read that and swings the photon saber sideways at her while softening the impact from the earlier charge with a reverse thruster. ¡°That won¡¯t work on me!¡± The sideways swing came at a moment where one could call it a surprise hit but Tersis managed to catch it with her longsword. ¡°There¡¯s more where that came from you know!¡± Kisei grinned and kicked off the abdomen of [Van Wolf]. No matter how strong it is, it won¡¯t be able to withstand a blow like that while it was off balance from his onslaught. As a result, the [Van Wolf] was blown away with a loud sound of impact. ¡°Ugh¡­..not yet!¡± However, Tersis is not your ordinary pilot. She immediately fired her thruster and killed the impact. Even so, it¡¯s inevitable that she would be defenseless for a moment. Using that opening, Kisei fired two shots from his blaster rifle at the abdomen of the [Van Wolf]. ¡°¡­¡­!¡± Tersis held her breath at the sound of the beams scorching the paint just below her cockpit. Fortunately, the [Van Wolf] is an extremely specialized melee type, it possesses the strongest armor among the strikers piloted by the 4 Heavenlys. ¡°So hard! This is getting interesting!¡± Kisei ferociously smiled and charged at her again with full thruster capacity. Tersis manages to parry the assault from his bayonet with her sword again but Kisei¡¯s attack does not stop. Even when Tersis tries to fight back, Kisei would move as though he already anticipated what she¡¯s going to do and crush her every attempt. Unable to do anything, the [Van Wolf] is being pushed back. ¡°To think that he¡¯s this strong!¡± However, she did not lose her calm. On the contrary, her expression seemed to be an excited one. ¡°To push me back to his extent! What a guy!¡­¡­..What a guy! HaHaHaHaHaHa!¡± The laughter from the open channel made Kisei¡¯s smile deepen. She is a combat enthusiast, that much is clear. However, fighting someone like her is more fun to him than chasing someone who¡¯s running away in fear. ¡°Good! More¡ª¡± ¡°Kisei-san! Please come in!¡± There, a sudden and tense voice reached Kisei¡¯s ears. It¡¯s a little hard to understand with all the noises but it was Schleer¡¯s voice. ¡°Our fleet is currently under attack by the enemy main fleet! They can¡¯t repel the enemy by themselves! We must return to the landing point¡­¡­¡­Please withdraw!¡± ¡°What¡­¡­!¡± Even though it was just getting interesting, she completely rained down on his parade. Although Kisei groaned with some dissatisfaction, he can¡¯t just ignore his order and continue the fight here. ¡°Kisei! Let¡¯s go!¡± ¡°Damn it!¡± Prompted by Saki, Kisei reluctantly kicked the ground and blew his thrusters to distance himself away from the [Van Wolf]. ¡°Ah, hey, Stop right there! If you are going to withdraw then at least finish me first!¡± ¡°Sorry! Let¡¯s do this again next time!¡± Saki¡¯s expression turned strange at how Kisei said that like he was saying goodbye to a playmate. On the other hand, Tersis who was about to chase after him was stopped by a message from Diaroze. ¡°Good work, they must have withdrawn already right! Right on schedule. You can come back now!¡± ¡°But!¡± ¡°No but! Are you trying to disobey my order!?¡± Tersis tried to protest but Diaroze bluntly stopped her. In the first place, Tersis¡¯s mission this time is to repel Kisei and Saki, chasing after them was not in her order. ¡°The other 4 Heavenlys are coming. Hurry up and come back for resupply!¡± ¡°¡­¡­¡­..understood.¡± Reluctantly, Tersis followed her order and fall back. CH 99 Retreating to the Enemy Headquarters 1 It was the dirt-covered [Mistilteinn] that welcomed Kisei and Saki once they got back to the main force. The place is unusually quiet due to the absence of the shells that have been raining on them over the past few days. ¡°Ahh, thank goodness. You made it in time.¡± The [Mistilteinn] approaches the [Caliburn-Revive] before opening its cockpit hatch. Schleer jumped out from the inside, her expression filled with bitterness. ¡°You said that the fleet is under attack?¡± Kisei, who also came out of his cockpit, had to raise his eyebrows at Schleer¡¯s expression. There have been many occasions where she seems troubled by the situation but not to this extent. ¡°Wasn¡¯t our fleet supposed to take a distance and observe the enemy in case the enemy fleet showed up? How did they get ambushed?¡± Saki asked in a moody voice. Even though Tersis got in their way, they still managed to produce a good battle result in their previous raid. Nevertheless, being met with such a setback, she can¡¯t help but find her mood ruined. ¡°The open water should give clear visibility and there¡¯s no way that they would be able to deceive our radar. They must have set up something to ambush us like this¡­¡­.¡± ¡°They came from underwater. The enemy fleet suddenly surfaced right next to ours.¡± ¡°Haa!?¡± Saki raised her voice in surprise. Kisei also groaned with his arms crossed. After all, even a veteran like Kisei has never seen such a maneuver before. ¡°Even if a spaceship can dive underwater they should not come with the same spec as a real submarine. Something that big should make a lot of noises right. How come we could not detect them with our sonar.¡± Being built to withstand the vacuum of space, all spaceships are completely airtight. They should be strong enough to withstand water pressure as well. With an anti-gravity engine, a spaceship should be able to operate just fine underwater without relying on a ballast tank. However, they should only be on the level of operable. They can¡¯t utilize their full speed underwater and they should be very noisy as well. In short, spaceships usually are easily detectable underwater. Navigation aside, using them in an ambush like this should be impossible. ¡°That¡¯s¡­¡­.it seems that they have been submerged there even before we anchored.¡± ¡°It¡¯s already been a few days since we anchored there right¡­¡­.you are saying that they have been down there all this time!?¡± Saki was speechless. Certainly, they would have little risk of being detected that way. However, it must have been very hard for them to stay submerged there without making a single noise for days. ¡°The fact that they did not move at all when we landed means that they were waiting for our main force to head inland first. They are quite nasty huh.¡± Impressed, Kisei laughed. On the other hand, Schleer shows a bitter expression at his carefree attitude. ¡°This is no time to laugh, you know. Right now we must head back to join our fleet as soon as possible¡­¡­¡± ¡°This is the 08th Recon platoon! A large army is coming in toward our location from the north! It¡¯s an enemy attack, ma¡¯am!¡± Their conversation was suddenly interrupted by a tense report. After receiving the data from the recon platoon, Schleer immediately put it up on her sub-monitor and confirms it. ¡°Wha¡­¡­! They are deploying this many troops!? I see, so that¡¯s why they stopped the bombardment¡­¡­.damn it, they got us!¡± Schleer unintentionally swore. That is inevitable given a large number of enemies heading their way. It is clear that they¡¯ve planned this from the beginning. ¡°This looks really bad, isn¡¯t it. If we do this poorly, we will be caught between the enemy fleet and their ground units then¡­¡­..¡± ¡°Perfectly sandwiched huh.¡± ¡°That¡¯s not funny you know.¡± Saki frowned at Kisei¡¯s joke. However, they certainly can not afford to intercept the enemy here first before heading back to rescue their fleet. Generally speaking, a Noredian fleet should be more powerful than a Calencian one. Without striker support, it¡¯s impossible for them to win in a head-on fight. ¡°We have no choice but to retreat¡­¡­but, it would be too much if we have to withdraw while warding off the enemy on our back.¡± ¡°We might be able to win if we can fight them properly but, if we have to move back to protect our fleet as well¡­¡­that would be rather difficult. The enemy commander is quite capable.¡± ¡°Diaroze¡­¡­ugh, even though I already expected her to pull something, to think that I couldn¡¯t even do anything against it!¡± Schiller hit the armor plate on her cockpit. ¡°We are in a pinch huh.¡± Seeing that, Kisei grinned. He then jumped onto the [Mistilteinn] and gently squeezed Schleer¡¯s hand. ¡°But I¡¯m here for a time like this right.¡± ¡°Ki, Kisei-san¡­¡­?¡± While blushing from having her hand suddenly grabbed, Schleer cocked her head to the side. Her expression is asking him what he¡¯s planning to do in a situation like this. ¡°For the time being, everyone should retreat toward the fleet. I and¡­..sorry, Saki will separate from the main force and intercept the enemy.¡± ¡°Ahh? Me? Sure, I don¡¯t mind.¡± In the first place, Saki isn¡¯t fond of running away with a tail between her legs. If the Nored army is planning to ambush them, she would rather face the ambush head-on despite the danger. ¡°Are you planning to be our rearguard? If that¡¯s the case then I will¡­..¡± ¡°No. Schleer needs to stay and lead the army. We will act separately on this one.¡± ¡°¡­..what are you planning?¡± Having an unpleasant premonition, Schleer asked. In reply, Kisei gives his answer with a bitter smile. ¡°We will rush directly toward the center of the enemy formation. That should kill their momentum and prevent them from pursuing you.¡± ¡°Isn¡¯t that the Shimazu¡¯s escape!?¡± Hearing that all too bold of a plan, Saki retorted. ¡°¡­¡­y, you¡¯re well-informed huh.¡± Kisei was taken aback by Saki¡¯s unexpected reference. Even for a Terran, aside from a few history buffs, that reference is not that particularly well-known though¡­¡­ TLN: The Shimazu¡¯s escape is a story about how the Shimazu clan escaped from the battle of Sekigahara in Sengoku period. The mad lads rode through the center of the enemy formation and broke the encirclement. at the same time they deployed suicide squad to stall their pursuers killing a lot of the Tokugawa soldiers. And yes, the Shimazu¡¯s lord managed to escape. Look it up if you are interested, or go watch the clip of the opening scene of the anime Drifter on youtube for ¡°Accurate Depiction¡±. CH 100 Chapter 100 finally, now we are officially 1/3 of the way to the end. Retreating to the Enemy Headquarters 2 Glossy jet-black strikers are running through the dense forest. These machines are [Lenion] the striker model reserved exclusively for the Nored¡¯s Imperial Knights. 20 of such strikers are now heading toward the Calencian main force which is now retreating toward the beach. ¡°These guys, the ones that showed up on Leboir¡­¡­.¡± Saki said in a sullen voice when she spotted them. Even though it should be unexpected for the Imperial Knights to face Kisei and Saki here, their maneuver shows no sign of unrest. While skillfully using the trees as their cover, they start attacking them with pinpoint accuracy. ¡°The Imperial Knights huh. I never thought that they would be tasked to lead the charge.¡± ¡°These guys are troublesome you know. Both the spec of their machines and their skills are extraordinary after all.¡± ¡°The sharper the tip, the better the spear huh. I see, I guess the other side is getting serious as well.¡± Multiple [Lenions] fired a large number of micro-missiles toward the grinning Kisei. Like a school of small fishes, they flew out from the missile pods on their back and home in toward the [Caliburn-Revive]. ¡°Woah, these guys¡­¡­they are using the same thing as Valentina huh? Still, we are in a forest you know!¡± Although the micro-missiles are quite effective in open space, with large trees scattering around them like this, they won¡¯t be able to exhibit their full power. Many missiles exploded on the trunks and branches of the giant trees and the remaining ones were all shot down by the [Anti-Missile Laser Interceptor] on the [Caliburn Revive]. ¡°Ugh, prepare for melee combat!¡± ¡°First one is you!¡± With that shout, Kisei jumped toward the [Lenion] which seems to be piloted by the unit commander. It managed to stop Kisei¡¯s bayonet thrust with its shield but at the same time, Kisei fired the head-mounted machine gun and destroyed its trinocular main camera. ¡°Ugh!?¡± Without missing that small opening, Kisei swept up its feet and mercilessly stabbed the bayonet at the [Lenion]¡¯s abdomen as it fell toward the mossy ground of the forest. ¡°You little!¡­¡­Argh!¡± The [Lenion] counterattacked with its blaster rifle but the beam was deflected back by Kisei¡¯s photon saber. Being hit by its own beam, the [Lenion] stopped moving from the impact, luckily the shot did not pierce its armor. Naturally, Kisei did not stop at that and fired his rifle at the exact same spot. This time, the [Lenion] was disabled and lifelessly collapsed to the ground. ¡°This guy, just like the rumors said, he¡¯s not normal¡­¡­¡± ¡°Don¡¯t be scared! We must make up for our disgrace!¡± The Imperial Knights were disgraced when they allowed Kisei to steal one of their ride boosters at Leboir and escaped. Intending to make up for that, the morale of the Imperial Knights was high. ¡°Blasters won¡¯t be effective against him, Take out your machine guns!¡± ¡°Oh, don¡¯t go forget about me now!¡± The [Lenion] that was switching to its machine gun was cut in half by Saki¡¯s lightning-fast slash. Due to Kisei¡¯s flashy performance earlier, it was very easy for her to move around with no eyes on her. ¡°Damn it!¡± Another [Lenion] sprayed its submachine gun at [Dainsleif] but Saki quickly takes cover behind a tree while defending herself with the cloak-like extra armor. At the same time, the head of the [Lenion] that was aiming at Saki was blown off by a shot from Kisei¡¯s blaster rifle. ¡°Ah, sorry about that!¡± Jumping out from behind the tree, Saki cut down the [Lenion] that lost its head. Not only that, she also aimed her kunai launcher at another [Lenion] next to it and fired. The kunai struck the [Lenion]¡¯s abdomen and sent it flying before it collapsed on the ground. ¡°They are both skilled! What do we do, ma¡¯am?¡± ¡°Keep the Samurai busy! Focus your attack on the White One!¡± ¡°But in a forest like this¡­¡­Gwak!¡± Another [Lenion] fell victim to Kisei¡¯s pile bunker. The two other [Lenions] at its sides counterattack with their machine guns but Kisei quickly takes his distance and hides behind a tree. However, the tree trunk is being chipped away like it was cut by a chainsaw. Soon, the huge tree trunk collapsed and rolled on the ground, raising a cloud of dust. From the brown dust cloud, 2 green beams flew out and hit both [Lenions] on their abdomens, leaving them disabled. ¡°Ugh, he¡¯s tough¡­..but we can not afford to withdraw either!¡± Since they were chosen to lead the charge, withdrawal is not an option for the Imperial Knights. It hasn¡¯t been long since their offensive was launched, should the vanguards suddenly withdraw, the morale of the entire army will be shaken. Moreover, as the elites of the Nored Empire, they can not afford to show such a disgraceful appearance. ¡°As expected of the Imperial Knights, you guys have some backbone huh. You people are worth fighting¡­..¡± Saki let out a small sigh at Kisei who said that with a grin inside his cockpit. Unlike him who clearly outclassed them, these Imperial Knights are an elite unit that she must be on guard against. The only factor that allowed her to fight them advantageously is that they are all focused on Kisei. ¡°What do we do about these guys? They won¡¯t back down if you just beat them back a little you know?¡± ¡°This is a good opportunity, let¡¯s crush them. These people are quite skilled after all¡­¡­.our [Claymores] would probably struggle if we let them through. It should be much easier for our side if we disable all of their strikers here.¡± ¡°You serious?¡­..Damn, can¡¯t be helped then. Let¡¯s get this over with!¡± After heaving a heavy sigh, Saki shouted to get her fighting spirit up. Still, there are many enemies behind the Imperial Knights. CH 101 Retreating to the Enemy Headquarters 3 ¡°The troops¡¯ deployment is proceeding as planned¡­..that Hokuto Kisei is likely alone. All I have to do is keep the pressure on him until he¡¯s exhausted.¡± Muttered Diaroze inside of the cockpit of her beloved striker, [Zentis]. In front of her is a sub-monitor displaying the tactical map. ¡°I placed the Imperial Knights as our vanguard. No matter how much of a monster he is, with our elites as his opponents he should be kept busy for a while. If I keep sending in reinforcements then¡­¡­¡± ¡°Reporting! The Imperial Knights appeared to have been wiped out, Your Highness!¡± Suddenly, the tense voice of her subordinate came through her earpiece. In response to the shocking report, Diaroze almost slipped off her seat. ¡°W, Wiped out!? He wiped out 24 [Lenions]¡­¡­!? The battle has just begun right!!¡± ¡°It seems that they were all defeated by the 2 strikers that infiltrated our parameter earlier. The battle is still ongoing at the frontline, Your Highness¡­..¡± ¡°O, Only two!?¡± This is not the question of Kill Ratio. That man can fight against a force dozens of times larger than his own!? Thought Diaroze as cold sweat ran down her back. ¡°EEII, just keep him surrounded and concentrate your attack on him. It doesn¡¯t matter if there is some damage to our side, keep him there as long as possible. If you don¡¯t push forward then the damage to our side will be mini¨C¡­¡­¡± ¡°Y, Your Highness, the enemy Zeniths have begun to charge straight toward the direction of our headquarters! Our units at the frontline are trying to stop them but¡­¡­.¡± ¡°W, Why!? Why are they coming this way!? Normally they should be escorting their main force right¡­¡­¡± Diaroze held her head. The original plan was to keep the pressure on Kisei to exhaust and isolate him before making an all-out attack. The situation has been going in an unexpected direction since the start of the operation. ¡°C, Call an artillery strike on his position! Just keep it raining on him so he can¡¯t advance forward!¡± ¡°Th, they are in a melee over there, Your Highness!? Are you intending to bombard our allies as well!?¡± ¡°N, No, that would be too much¡­¡­¡± Even Diaroze hesitated when it came to such a thing. Usually, there are many troops of aristocratic houses on the frontline. If she calls an artillery strike on them, it would raise a lot of problems for her even with her position as the to-be-empress. ¡°Tell the frontline troops to provide support fire for our soldiers in melee and have them fall back. Launch the artillery strike after we cleared our allies out of the area.¡± In the end, Diaroze decided to be reasonable. The frontline will be using mid-sized rocket launchers and fieldguns to buy time for the soldiers to withdraw before bombarding the enemy. The highly trained Noredians troops carried her order out swiftly and about 3 minutes later, the units on the frontline had withdrawn out of the artillery range. ¡°Good, commence fire!¡± At her command, the mobile artillery regiments open fire. Thunderous sounds of the bombardment can be heard from a distance and shockwaves even shook the [Zentis]¡¯s cockpit a little. The area is currently being bombarded by 28cm shells. Even if she is currently quite a distance away from the bombarded area, the sounds of explosions are still extremely loud. ¡°Report!¡± Diaroze asked for a report with a frown. Even if the artillery strike did not take him down, it would be nice if it damages the limbs of his striker. All she needs to do is send another wave of her soldiers in to finish the job. ¡°N, Negative Your Highness. The shells were intercepted! The strike was ineffective! I repeat, Ineffective!¡± ¡°How is that even possible!?¡± Diaroze was fuming at such unreasonableness but for Kisei who can easily intercept blaster beams that travel at almost lightspeed, those shells almost looked to him like non-moving targets. Moreover, it is quite easy for him to just intercept the shells that are likely to hit him and leave the other alone. ¡°P, prepare the second volley.¡± ¡°Negative. Our observation team has lost sight of them¡­¡­¡± It is difficult to locate their enemy in a dense forest like this. Moreover, Kisei is piloting a Zenith-Type that has excellent mobility. It¡¯s actually simple for him to use the low-visibility environment after the artillery strike to conceal himself. ¡°Negative, negative, all you say since earlier were negative! Can¡¯t you say something else you stupid dogs!¡± Diaroze stomped the cockpit floor in frustration. Her plans were all rendered ineffective and her troops suffered terrible damage. Certainly, this is quite unreasonable. That being said, this may have been doomed to happen from the moment she chose such a dense forest to intercept the Calencian army. Still, she set up a defensive line here to intercept the enemy with as little damage to her army as possible. ¡°Aneue, please leave this place to me.¡± Then, a communication came in from Valentina. ¡°What!?¡± ¡°Please lend me the [Heavenly Blade]. I will definitely stop that mercenary here.¡± Valentina offered so in a confident voice. However, Diaroze¡¯s face turns blue as she shakes her head sideways. ¡°No way, No way! What can the likes of you do, you will only waste Tersis on a fool errand!¡± The [Heavenly Blade], Tersis was literally tossed around without being able to do anything merely a few hours ago. Valentina is unaware of this since Diaroze has issued a gag order to prevent the news from affecting morale. ¡®She must be confident that everything will be okay if she has Tersis with her¡¯ Thinking so, Diaroze heaved a heavy sigh. ¡°If you lose twice to the same person¡­¡­.no, to the same [Man], your measly honor will be destroyed you know. Listen to your sister¡¯s advice and stay out of this. The chance will eventually come, I will let you have your share as well.¡± ¡°¡­¡­as you command.¡± Valentina reluctantly obeyed her command. Then with another sigh, Diaroze glared at the tactical map. ¡°For now I have to stop their advance. If they reach this place then all my plans would turn to waste¡­¡­¡± Unfortunately for Diaroze, her fear would be realized in less than an hour. CH 102 I Friggin Hate Duel! 1 In the dense forest where neither radar nor visual sensors are reliable, two strikers eluded their pursuers even though they were being chased by a whole army. Even in the case where the Noredian army encounters the two, they would be wiped out due to the overwhelming power of Kisei and Saki. No matter how skillful Diaroze is, she couldn¡¯t do much in such a situation. ¡°U, Uwahh! They¡¯re here!¡± Spotting the white striker that sewed through the gaps between the trees, Diaroze screamed in surprise. With its white paint tainted by the oil stains, the white striker glared at the [Zentis] with its glowing blue eyes as it pointed its bayonet. ¡°I¡¯ve come for the general¡¯s head! This is Hokuto Kisei the mercenary, I challenge you to a duel!¡± ¡°Eh, who in their right mind would¡­¡­¡­¡± Diaroze said that without thinking but she held her mouth before she could finish her sentence. She can¡¯t afford to show such an unsightly appearance in front of her subordinates. She hurriedly looked around and saw that all her escort strikers have their weapons at the ready. However, they all stopped moving and looked toward Diaroze. ¡®EEEI, Useless, all of them!¡¯ Diaroze cursed internally but it is certainly normal for her subordinates to not attack Kisei when he challenged her to single combat. ¡°S, So you bastard are Hokuto Kisei huh. Don¡¯t you think that attitude of yours is too haughty when addressing someone who¡¯s the next in line for the Nored throne?¡± ¡°I do apologize for that. So, your reply?¡± ¡°Hmph¡­¡­I heard that you are quite skilled so I imagined you to be a beast-like caveman but your pretty voice sounds almost like the chirping of a little bird. So, how about you quit being a mercenary and come to my side? I will love you plenty you know.¡± ¡°I refuse. So, your repl¨C¡­¡­¡± ¡°T, that¡¯s right! You¡¯re probably tired from fighting your way here right. You should take a break! I would never take advantage of an exhausted opponent! I have some good tea leaves as well. Let¡¯s sheath our weapons and have some tea together to get to know each other!¡± ¡°You say that after you ordered purge bombings on planets full of civilians¡­¡­¡­?¡± Valentina muttered with an astounded expression at the fluttered Diaroze. ¡°What did you say!?¡± ¡°No, nothing.¡± ¡°Anyway, you fools just keep quiet! ¡­¡­., I didn¡¯t give that order because I wanted to in the first place¡­¡­¡­¡­¡± ¡°WHO CARES!¡± From behind Kisei, Saki shouted at Diaroze who started muttering her excuses in a small voice. Her striker was also covered in oil from the combat and gave off the impression of a warrior whose whole body is dyed in blood. ¡°Are you going to do this or not! You don¡¯t want to do it? Fine. We will just go on a rampage here. Even I have been waiting for a chance to cleave that head off your shoulders for a while now. Rather, just give me an excuse to do it.¡± Kisei is clearly stronger than her so Saki was being reasonable and stepped back to devote herself to support him. However, their opponent is Diaroze, the enemy of Calencia herself. If she can, she also wants to take revenge for her people.¡± ¡°Aneue, please, your decision.¡± ¡°¡­¡­¡­¡­¡± Diaroze pathetically looked at Valentina whose voice sounded like she was saying [Just accept the duel already]. Like [Zentis], Valentina¡¯s striker was painted with black and gold signifying the status of the Nored Imperial family. However, unlike Diaroze, her demeanor seems strangely calm and collected. ¡®Damn it, acting like it¡¯s none of your concern¡­¡­.if it¡¯s like that then you go fight him! ¡­¡­..no, I¡¯m the general here, if I appoint a proxy, I would become the laughing stock of the whole army!¡¯ While her head was processing her options at high speed, Diaroze grits her teeth. Naturally, she doesn¡¯t want to accept the duel challenge. Kisei¡¯s [Caliburn-Revive] seems to be a little exhausted but it should still be able to fight well. Diaroze has her confidence in piloting a striker but against a real monster that can fight off the Nored¡¯s 4 Heavenlys all by himself, her confidence means nothing. ¡®How did it come to this¡­¡­..this was supposed to be an easy war. If I don¡¯t do something then I will lose¡­..¡¯ Thinking so, Diaroze felt a strange sensation running down her back. Her body quivered but she couldn¡¯t tell what it was so she decided to shake it off. ¡°It seems you are not planning to accept my challenge. Can¡¯t be helped, I will just crush everyone here.¡± The moment Kisei said that in a cheerful voice, Diaroze¡¯s escorts started to panic. ¡°Wait! Stop right there! There¡¯s no way that our princess would do such a shameful thing as to turn away from such a challenge!¡± ¡°That¡¯s right! Her Highness will definitely accept! Right, Your Highness!!¡± With the position of the next empress, Diaroze¡¯s escorts only consisted of high-ranking aristocrats. However, these aristocrats usually prepare a custom-made striker for themselves. They would never risk any unnecessary damage to their luxuriously customized machine. Moreover, if news spreads that they were defeated by a man then their honor will be seriously damaged. That¡¯s why the escorts abandoned their duty and prioritized themselves. Rumors about Kisei are also becoming more famous within the Nored empire. Even if they know that they will not be killed in a fight against him, they would all naturally choose to minimize the damage to themselves. ¡°Damn it¡­¡­.I just have to accept it right, Fine!¡± Being subjected to a case of extreme peer pressure, Diaroze eventually gave in and shouted so in tears. Diaroze then mute her microphone and take out a communication terminal from the holder on her thigh and quickly typed in a message. After confirming that the message was sent, she unmuted the mic. ¡°Diaroze Vista Argarine! [Zentis] will face you in single combat!¡± CH 103 I Friggin Hate Duel 2 ¡°The opponent is a close-quarter combat type¡­¡­.I guess it¡¯s a little disadvantageous for me in a forest like this huh.¡± While observing the black-gold striker on his main monitor, Kisei muttered to himself. Its thick armor can be discerned at a single glance and there was also a large thruster unit at its back to compensate for the extra weight. If he has to categorize it, it would be the same type as the [Zarava] piloted by the [Heavenly Roar]. However, the black-gold striker¡¯s most distinctive feature is the large shotgun in its right hand. The belt link extending from the shotgun is connected to the drum magazine mounted on the back. This means that it possesses a high rate of fire. ¡°Full-auto shotgun ¡­¡­.that¡¯s a strange weapon for sure but in a tight space like this it would be difficult to avoid or intercept its shots, alright.¡± After forming a plan in his head, Kisei immediately accelerated. A storm of shotgun shells hits the space where the [Caliburn-Revive] was. The trunk of the giant tree which was over a dozen meters in height was shattered in half by the shells, exploding into a cloud of dust. ¡°Tsk!¡± Diaroze clicked her tongue after seeing that her attack was easily avoided. Naturally, she already knew that her opponent is not someone easy to hit but it is still frustrating for her nonetheless. Moreover, he avoided it with a speed that is slower than she expected. Normally, her shots should not be able to be avoided at that level of speed. Still, Kisei¡¯s striker was unscathed. It¡¯s like he¡¯s using some kind of magic here. ¡°You are using some kind of cheat right, you bastard!¡± ¡°If you know where the shots will land in advance, this much is natural right?¡± ¡°D, Damn it!¡± Diaroze kept pulling the trigger as cold sweat started to break out on her body. As the muzzle of her shotgun repeatedly flashes and illuminates the dim forest, countless shells kept shattering the trees. ¡°Ah!¡± Meanwhile, a single beam fired by Kisei went through [Zentis]¡¯s shotgun causing the gun¡¯s body, which is filled with ammunition, to explode. The debris hit the [Zentis]¡¯s armor with a high-pitched and unpleasant sound of impact echoing inside its cockpit. ¡°Damn you!¡± ¡°You think you can stop me with just bullets alone!?¡± Taking the chance when the barrage stopped, Kisei stepped on his foot pedal and closed in on the [Zentis] at once. ¡°I won¡¯t fall with just this!¡± Diaroze managed to block the iai slash from Kisei¡¯s photon saber. His green blade of light is grinding against her silver blade, sending off countless sparks. ¡°UNNNGH¡­¡­!¡± Diaroze was ready to block Kisei¡¯s follow-up slash but his attack with the photon saber was only a feint. The [Caliburn-Revive] kicked at the [Zentis]¡¯s lower abdomen and sent it collapsing to the ground. ¡°Ugh!¡± While glaring at the [Caliburn-Revive] which has taken out its rifle, Diaroze pulled a trigger. A thick, small-sized cannon mounted on the [Zentis]¡¯s shoulder fired out a giant net. ¡°Net gun!? You have something like that too huh!¡± While casually avoiding the giant net, Kisei voiced his impression. The net which was avoided landed on and covered a mossy ground of the forest while burning the fallen trees and the moss with violent electric discharge. ¡°That was supposed to be a surprise attack you know! Don¡¯t just casually avoid it!¡± From the battle data she collected so far, Diaroze knew that Kisei¡¯s ability to evade incoming attacks was unusual. Even so, even though she equipped her striker with weapons that should be difficult to avoid, he still managed to easily evade it. ¡°I don¡¯t have any obligation to be defeated by cheap tricks after all!¡± ¡°Shut up, Shut UP! You bastard!!¡± A snake-like whip slithered out from the undersleeve of the [Zentis]¡¯s hand and attacked Kisei. However, the one who has to suffer that painful attack was not him. The whip that slithered toward Kise was cut by his Photon SAber and instead was sent back toward the [Zentis]. ¡°GUEHH!¡± The [Zentis] violently shook and Diaroze raised such a pathetic scream. Immediately after, a pile bunker was immediately plunged at the [Zentis]¡¯s abdomen. ¡°So it¡¯s this hard huh, as expected of a royalty exclusive!¡± However, the pile bunker still did not penetrate the thick armor of the [Zentis]. While voicing his admiration for the machine, Kisei regained his posture which was collapsed by the unexpected rebound. ¡°D, Doing whatever you want¨C!¡± Diaroze shouts with her face drenched in a cold sweat from the earlier attack. She then holds up her longsword and tries to thrust at Kisei. ¡°Being reckless is no good you know!¡± ¡°WAh!?¡± Kisei shot a beam at the place the [Zentis] was about to step to, making it stumble by the uneven footing and violently collapse forward. At the same time, he sent a roundhouse kick toward the [Zentis]¡¯s chest and sent it flying backward. ¡°U, Uwahhh!!¡± After tumbling on the ground, Diaroze looked up and screamed at the [Caliburn-Revive] which was approaching her at high speed. She tried to move out of its way by twisting the body of the [Zentis] but it was too late. Seeing the [Caliburn-Revive] mounting on the chest of her [Zentis], Diaroze exhaled a heated breath. ¡°You mounted me!? How dare you!?¡± Contrary to her words, her expression was one of excitement. Kisei was weirded out by Diaroze¡¯s thoughts which flowed to his mind for a moment but that doesn¡¯t mean that he will stop his attack. The [Caliburn-Revive]¡¯s thrusts the tip of its photon saber which is being held in reverse-grip into the abdomen of the [Zentis]. ¡°It¡¯s over!¡± Although the armor was not immediately penetrated, inside the cockpit of the [Zentis] echoed the warning sound that the capacity of the regenerative armor is hitting its critical point. At this rate, its engine will be destroyed in just a few seconds. ¡°N, Now! Do it, Eleanor!¡± While listening to the warning sound with an ecstatic expression, Diaroze impatiently screamed out just before her armor was penetrated. In response, a striker pops out of the forest. It was a bright magenta, heavy-duty Zenith. It points its twin Gatling gun in its left hand toward the [Caliburn-Revive]. ¡°Even if I have to live with disgrace! I will not be defeated here!!¡± With a ferocious smile, Diarozed shouted with her cheeks dyed red. TLN: Yup, the duel didn¡¯t last long at all CH 104 Turning the Table For aristocrats, setting up an ambush during single combat is the most disgraceful thing one could have done. As winning a duel is one of the highest honors for Vuld aristocrats, it is not that hard to imagine what would happen if one broke such a taboo. Even so, this is still happening. ¡°You think an ambush will work on me!?¡± Kisei fired a round from his blaster rifle on the twin Gatling gun which was about to open fire at him. The twin Gatling guns exploded and the magenta Zenith that was wielding it¡­¡­.the [Pafeel] was blown back a little. ¡°Wha¡­¡­! So you live up to the rumors after all! Wicked Star!¡± Eleanor the Heavenly Thunder shouted inside the cockpit of [Pafeel]. ¡°You still stand even with this!? What kind of monster are you! Ugh, All of you, get over here already !¡± Diaroze shouted while still being mounted by Kisei. She was furious. If she can not take him down even after all this then she will end up becoming a laughing stock for the rest of her life. Following Diaroze¡¯s order, Noredian strikers jump out from their covers one after another. Among them are the [Van Wolf] and the [Zarava] belonging to the [Heavenly Blade] and the [Heavenly Roar] respectively. ¡°The whole circus huh!¡± Kisei kicked off the [Zentis] and jumped toward the sky with a joyful voice. Even if he kept trying to pierce the [Zentis]¡¯s armor, it¡¯s clear that all these newly arrived strikers would shower him with bullets. Before they could ready themselves, he needs to secure an advantageous position first. ¡°Ah¡­¡­¡± Seeing the [Caliburn-Revive] move away, Diaroze let out a disappointed voice. Even though she managed to push him back according to plan, regret can still be seen clearly in her eyes. ¡°S, She¡¯s a weird one.¡± Confused by Diaroze¡¯ Kisei abandoned his photon saber. There was only a small amount of charged particles left, not even enough for one slash. The photon saber is certainly a light and compact weapon but it¡¯s only suitable for short-term battle. In its place, he pulled out his spare photon saber and deflected the thick beams that were fired toward him. ¡°Gatling and mega blaster rifles huh! Nice combo!¡± ¡°Uwawawawa!? Hitting the beams back toward the shooter is just insane! Can you quit doing that!?¡± Eleanor screamed while avoiding the beams that flew back toward her. On the right hand of the [Pafeel] is a large 10.5Mw mega blaster rifle. Considering the twin Gatling that was destroyed earlier, it can be said that her striker can exert several times more firepower than your ordinary Zenith. ¡°UOAHHH!¡± As the two were exchanging fire, the [Zarava] approached Kisei with bullet-like speed and opened fire at him. Then when Kisei avoided the shot from her beam magnum, Nora started shouting at him as well. ¡°DON¡¯T JUST AVOID IT[DESUYO]!¡± ¡°Alright, deflecting it is!¡± ¡°DON¡¯T DO THAT EITHER!¡± Kisei happily replied with a smile at the Zarava that swiftly moved out of the way of the beam he reflected. ¡°Hahaha, it¡¯s been a while! How have you been?¡± ¡°All fine thanks to you[DESU]! I¡¯m definitely going to take you down this time!¡± After he ¡®allowed¡¯ her to get away in their last battle, Nora was burning with the flame of revenge due to the humiliation she received. She continues closing in on Kisei with sharp movement and accurate shots. Moreover, with support from the [Pafeel] behind her, Kisei has no other choice but to retreat backward. ¡°What a disgraceful battle. I am truly ashamed¡­but, I still have to fulfill my duty!¡± Above all, the two are not his only enemies. The [Van Wolf] charged at Kisei with its sword. However, the moment Kisei was about to intercept her blow using his photon saber, the [Dainsleif] received the blow with its sword in his place. ¡°Hou, the Samurai from back then huh.¡± ¡°Do you remember me after all! I¡¯m so happy I¡¯m gonna cry!¡± Sarcastically replied Saki, who was pretty much ignored by Tersis in their last encounter. If possible, she wants to take revenge for that here but she knows that this is not the time for that. ¡°Kisei, let¡¯s retreat for the time being! We need bullets and propellants to make our escape. It will get ugly if we can¡¯t withdraw after we go on a rampage here!¡± No matter how strong Kisei is, he can¡¯t annihilate the whole army. After all, even if he defeats all the 4 Heavenlys, it wouldn¡¯t be funny if he gets shot down by some small flies. That¡¯s why the wisest course of action is to withdraw while they still can. ¡°Ugh, that¡¯s true¡­¡­.what a shame, it¡¯s just getting fun too.¡± ¡°Don¡¯t be stupid! There should still be another one of those 4 Heavenlys right! If that guy joins in as well, our situation would get even worse!¡± Saki shouts while defending herself against the onslaught of Tersis. Saki is certainly an outstanding swordfighter but Tersis¡¯s skills are above hers. She has to make the [Dainsleif] step back after each blow and she doesn¡¯t know when Tersis¡¯s attack will get through either. Moreover, the surrounding strikers also fire at them when chances arise so this situation is tough enough for her already. Just imagine another one of an opponent with such skills joining the battle already sending a chill down her spine. ¡°¡­¡­can¡¯t be helped then, alright!¡± While avoiding the assault from the [Zarava] by hooking his wire gun to a giant tree, Kisei fired his blaster rifle at [Van Wolf]. Tersis naturally avoided the shot but using that opening, the [Dainsleif] managed to getaway. Seeing that, Kisei also disengaged. ¡°Ah, Hey! Get back here!¡± ¡°No, you get back here!¡± Nora hurriedly tried to chase after Kisei but she was stopped by a sharp voice from Diaroze. ¡°The 4 Heavenlys are to remain on standby. You guys pursue them. In a situation like this, it¡¯s better to attack them with quantity rather than quality.¡± Diaroze ordered her escort unit who was repeatedly providing fire support from behind the 4 Heavenlys. ¡°Eh, us!?¡± ¡°We can¡¯t possibly beat that kind of monster!¡± The captain of her escorts protested. ¡°Even if you get shot down that man will not take your life! Just go already!¡± ¡°Y, Yes, ma¡¯am¡­¡­¡± Since she just exposed her shameful appearance earlier, the reply she received from her subordinates was quite bad. They do not have the motivation to follow her order at all. It¡¯s clear that they do not want to follow the command of a general who requested assistance in single combat. ¡°Hurry up! GO!¡± ¡°Understood¡­¡­.¡± Diaroze sighed as she saw off the [Jettas] that finally started chasing Kisei. On the other hand, Nora raised her protest in a loud voice. ¡°WHY DID YOU STOP ME [DESU]!? DO YOU THINK WE CAN¡¯T WIN AGAINST HIM EVEN WITH THE THREE OF US¡­¡­¡± ¡°Don¡¯t you dare bark at me, you stupid cur. I wasn¡¯t expecting him to attack us at this time. Thanks to that, Liren couldn¡¯t join the battle. With that monster as our opponent, we need everything to guarantee our victory.¡± ¡°But¡­¡­¡± ¡°Shut your trap! Don¡¯t talk back to me! Anyway, we have to exhaust him first before we finish him. You curs will have your turn so just sit here and wait until then!¡± Against Diaroze¡¯s angry outburst, Nora had no choice but to obediently shut her mouth. CH 105 The Escape It¡¯s been a week since the duel with Diaroze. Kisei and Saki have escaped inland and are currently flying low in a mountainous area. ¡°Hnnnnn, I¡¯m hungry¡­¡­.¡± Kisei muttered with a tired expression inside the cockpit. They still couldn¡¯t join up with the main force thanks to Diaroze¡¯s skillful command. As a result, they were pushed inland instead of the shore where their main force was and they can¡¯t resupply themselves. ¡°The ration stored in the cockpit was only enough for 3 days after all. Even if we eat it sparingly, this is our limit¡­¡­¡± Likewise, Saki doesn¡¯t hide her hunger and said that while sticking her tongue out. It doesn¡¯t seem like they can join up with their force any time soon as they have been taking detour after detour to avoid their pursuers. They can¡¯t even request backup since the Noredian is jamming the communication in this area. ¡°It might be time for us to start procuring our own food huh¡­¡­.still, I don¡¯t want to leave the cockpit.¡± ¡°It wouldn¡¯t be strange if we run into their patrols after all. Man, we are in a bind aren¡¯t we.¡± ¡°Your voice doesn¡¯t sound that nervous though¡­¡­.¡± Saki sighed at Kisei who said that in a cheerful voice. He might try to look cheerful on the outside but Kisei¡¯s attitude is still overkilled. Still, from what they have been through together, Saki knows that Kisei is being serious. ¡°I mean, we are certainly in a tough situation but the enemy commander was super interesting as an opponent don¡¯t you think. I am so looking forward to a rematch that I don¡¯t even feel tired you see.¡± ¡°That shameless woman who set up an ambush during a duel!?¡± Thinking about it from a Vuld¡¯s perspective, it¡¯s unavoidable to think of Diaroze as a coward. Getting angry at such a thing would be normal, but instead, Kisei seems to be happy about it. ¡°She knew that she can¡¯t win in a one-on-one condition so she chose the perfect timing to launch a surprise attack. She was just using the best method that can secure her victory, this Diaroze person.¡± Kisei smiles in a good mood while gently strokes the control stick. ¡°Don¡¯t you think she¡¯s interesting? A person that can push me back to this extent. It¡¯s been a while since I found an interesting opponent you know.¡± ¡°You sound like someone from a warmonger race you know.¡± ¡°I don¡¯t really want to hear that from a Vuld though¡­¡­¡± ¡°Don¡¯t be stupid, us Vuld is a race of farmers you know. Just look at that.¡± The [Dainsleif] pointed toward a rice field carved into the mountain slope. It is considerably big and the patch of water is reflecting the brilliant sunlight. ¡°Most Vulds work in agriculture and food productions you know? There are only a few who became warriors. You always met my people on the battlefield so you might only see our bloody side though¡­¡­.¡± ¡°Wait a minute. That¡¯s a rice field, right? And it doesn¡¯t look abandoned either.¡± While zooming in on the rice field, Kisei excitedly asked Saki. The rice field is well maintained and no weeds can be spotted around the rice that grows out from the clean water surface. ¡°It¡¯s been some time since this planet was taken over. If the people here abandoned this place then, it wouldn¡¯t look this clean right. This means there are still people here!¡± ¡°Th, That¡¯s true! Alright, let¡¯s go see for ourselves. Maybe they might be generous enough to share some food with us.¡± Impatient, the two flew toward the rice field. As they approached, they could spot several women working in the field. The expression on their faces was a mixture of surprise and fear but as soon as they recognized that the two belonged to the Calencian army, they waved at them with a smile. ¡°That¡¯s a relief. At least it seems they are in a welcoming mood.¡± ¡°Well, I hope they won¡¯t turn us to the Noredian later though¡­¡­.¡± Saki sarcastically muttered and proceeded to carefully land her striker so as to not damage the rice field. They landed in an open spot and many farmers gathered at the feet of their strikers. ¡°You should stay inside. It would be bad if things go south down there.¡± Without waiting for Kisei¡¯s reply, Saki opened the cockpit hatch while confirming that she has her pistol in the holster. ¡°Ahh, thank goodness! They are really Calencian knights!¡± ¡°So the rumor that they have come to liberate us is true huh¡­¡­seriously, took your damn time.¡± Saki bowed to the farmers. As far as she can see, they are not pointing their weapons at them. With a sigh of relief, Saki descends to the ground. ¡°Sorry, for disturbing your work. I¡¯m Lt. Makishima Saki of the Imperial Guards.¡± ¡°The Imperial Guards!?¡± ¡°Come to think of it, this striker, it¡¯s different than what our soldiers normally use¡­¡­.¡± From the noisy crowd, an old woman with crooked hips slipped through and walked out to the front. ¡°Welcome, sir knight. Thank you for being polite with people like us. So, what does an Imperial Guard like yourself want with a backwater village like ours?¡± Saki stiffened her expressions at the old woman who didn¡¯t hide her distrust toward them. Earlier in the war, the Calencian army abandoned this planet and withdrew their troops. This resulted in a merciless and disastrous purge bombing on the planet. Since the bombing was concentrated in the urban area, a rural place such as this one may have been safe but¡­¡­¡­.it¡¯s still can¡¯t be helped that the people here have a low opinion about the Calencian army. ¡°We were separated from our main force¡­we also ran out of ration. I was wondering if you can share some leftover food with us. ¡° ¡°So, you are telling us to hand over our food huh¡­¡­.¡± The old woman groaned with her arms crossed. ¡°I¡¯m sorry but we can not spare anything right now. There is a shelter housing the evacuees from the bombing nearby¡­¡­.the food that was stored there almost ran out already.¡± ¡°Well¡­¡­that¡¯s unfortunate¡­¡­.¡± These people are probably not eating well themselves. It is clear from the dark expression of the farmers around her once she mentioned that she needed food. Naturally, Saki is not willing to forcibly rob them either. ¡°Unnn, then at least can we have some water¡­¡­¡­¡± When she said that, the sound of the cockpit hatch being opened echoed. When Saki hurriedly looked up toward the [Caliburn-Revive], Kisei was already climbing down. ¡°A, A man just came out of a striker!¡± ¡°U, Uwah¡­..so cute¡­¡­maybe he¡¯s a prince¡­¡­.?¡± ¡°Isn¡¯t that a Terran? I never thought I could see someone so beautiful.¡± Their surroundings suddenly turned rowdy. They may have been confused by the existence of a male soldier but the women¡¯s gazes all light up. ¡°Umm, sorry but¡­¡­I¡¯m really hungry so can I at least ask for one meal?¡± ¡°If you are going that far then there¡¯s no way around it! Come along to my place, I will give you as much as I can.¡± ¡°Your attitude changed too fast, Oi!¡± Seeing the old woman say that with her cheeks blushed, Saki can¡¯t help but retort. CH 106 At the Farm Village After hiding their strikers in the woods, the two followed the old woman toward the farmers¡¯ village. The village was built in a valley and only consisted of simple wooden houses, something that looked very out of place considering the fact that they are living in the age where interstellar travel has become commonplace. The only mechanical thing here is the big windmills scattered around the edge of the village. ¡°Actually, this is the first time for me to visit a place like this during work you know.¡± ¡°Seriously.¡± Saki was surprised by Kisei¡¯s words. The farmers who were following behind them like they were following a lord during inspection also muttered something along the lines of [He¡¯s a sheltered child¡­..] or [As I thought, he must be a prince.]. ¡°I mean, see, I have been to a lot of spaceports because of my work but¡­¡­you know that I mostly have to stay with the army right. There are not many places I can visit because of that.¡± ¡°Ahh, I guess that¡¯s right huh.¡± Even with the Calencian Army, Kisei is still restricted from going out. It would come as no surprise for him to be treated the same in other armies as well. ¡°Still, I don¡¯t actually feel like I¡¯ve been here for the first time. You know, this place looks just like my hometown. It¡¯s hundreds of thousands of light-years away and the people here aren¡¯t even Terrans¡­¡­it¡¯s strange don¡¯t you think.¡± Kisei said as he looked around. Certainly, this village has a similar atmosphere to a Japanese farm village. The main cause might be the wooden tile roof and thatched roof of the houses here. ¡°Sorry to interrupt your fantasy but the buildings here were imported from Earth you know. It wouldn¡¯t be strange if you feel some similar atmosphere from them, they came from the same place after all.¡± ¡°Eh.¡± ¡°Vuld¡¯s home planet¡­¡­¡­Planet Vuld is a barren place with extremely cold weather. Our ancestors normally dig holes and live in them. Of course, we didn¡¯t have any buildings above ground either¡­¡­.¡± Saki started explaining with a grin on her face. On the other hand, Kisei¡¯s expression turned somewhat severe. ¡°When it comes to architecture, the Terrans were always superior to us. That¡¯s why nowadays we mostly use earth-style buildings and there are only a few buildings that are authentic Vuld architecture you see.¡± ¡°There¡¯s no dream or romance about any of this at all then!¡± ¡°Hahahahaha! Exactly!¡± Saki laughed out loud. Then, a middle-aged woman who was walking nearby looked at her. ¡°Nee-chan, if you always say something logical like that then boys will hate you, you know. You heard them says [Argh, this is why women are¡­..] before¡­¡­right.¡± ¡°Ugh!¡± Saki looked like she was pierced by those words as she held her chest and moaned. She then glanced at Kisei with an anxious gaze. Seeing her act like a nervous small animal, Kisei tapped her shoulder with a smile. ¡°A little reality check isn¡¯t going to hurt me. Right, Partner.¡± ¡°Y, Yeah, right! We are partners after all! Hahahaha!¡± Saki¡¯s expression immediately brightened at Kisei¡¯s words. She was called his ¡®Partner¡¯ after all. There¡¯s no way that she would not be elated by that. ¡°You chose me over that woman for this operation after all! It¡¯s clear that you trust me more than her! Fufufufu.¡± ¡°Eh, no, that¡¯s not¡­¡­..¡± Kisei was confused by Saki¡¯s sudden joyful words. He chose Saki for this operation because it¡¯s only rational to not have your general accompany you to the enemy headquarters alone. He didn¡¯t choose her because he prefers Saki over Schleer. Still, saying that out loud would needlessly discourage her so Kisei chose to shut his mouth and swallowed his words down. ¡°We are here.¡± When they were having such a conversation, the old woman suddenly stopped her feet. In front of her is a large wooden three-story house. That being said, her house is not particularly big compared to the surrounding houses. Since Vulds all usually have a big family, the surrounding houses are also of a similar size. ¡°The knights must be tired from all their travel. Now, go away, scatter, let them get some rest!¡± The old woman shooed the other farmers away. Although some of them were complaining, they all obediently headed back to their home according to the old woman¡¯s words. ¡°Alright, please come in.¡± After opening the glass door, the old woman invited the two into her house. ¡°Ooi! I¡¯m back. Falca, come on out!¡± ¡°Yes, yes!¡± When the old woman shouted while taking off her shoes at the wide doorway, a young woman showed up from the back room with a rattling noise. From behind, several children were running after her. ¡°Welcome back! Grandma!¡± ¡°W, Wah, he¡¯s so beautiful!¡± ¡°Awawawawa¡­¡­.¡± While trying to calm the children down, the woman called Falca gazed at Kisei with a surprised expression. ¡° M, Mom! Please tell me beforehand if you are going to bring a visitor! It¡¯s embarrassing looking like this in front of them right!¡± The woman blushed while pinching the hem of her apron. The children who are now grouping up behind her are all saying [I will tell dad you know!]. ¡°I will talk more about their situation later but these people are going to stay with us for the night. Get some chicken and ready a meal for them.¡± ¡°Oh my.¡± With a surprised expression still on her face, the woman observes Kisei. Naturally, since they just left their strikers, the two are still in their pilot suits. She managed to somewhat guess their circumstances from that and nodded with a smile. ¡°Then I will go call Shizuro-san. They need a change of clothes after all. A man should be taken care of by another man right.¡± ¡°Sorry for the trouble, thank you.¡± Kisei bowed while exhaling a sigh of relief. He has been stuck in the cockpit for more than a week so his body has already reached its limit due to fatigue. If he can get some room to stretch his body and a comfy place to sleep in then he couldn¡¯t be happier. CH 107 Big Family and Head Smacking ¡°Pheww¡­¡­..¡± Kisei cheerfully exhaled as he walked through the corridor. He had just come out from the bath and his hair was still wet. The old woman urged him to take a bath while they were preparing the meal so he took the chance to wash his pilot suit and change into a more comfortable dark blue yukata. ¡°I¡¯m done with the bath¡ª.¡± Saying so, Kisei opened the sliding door to the living room. Even though it is called a living room, it¡¯s dozens of tatami mats wide. If anything, it might be more accurate to describe the room as a lounge of a traditional Japanese inn or hot spring. However, just as the room is large, there are also a lot of people inside, more than a dozen in fact. The age groups are quite varied from elderly to toddler. These people are the family that lives in this house. ¡°Ahh, you¡¯re back. How was the water?¡± A young petite man spoke to him with a smile. His name is Shizuro, the only adult man in the family. He is the husband of the young woman who greeted Kisei and Saki at the entrance. ¡°It was great. I mean, it¡¯s my first proper bath in a while. Thank you very much for this.¡± Kisei replied with a smile. He then sat down in the corner of the room as urged by Shizuro. All eyes in the room are directed toward Kisei. He is a little uncomfortable by all the gazes but it can¡¯t be helped so he waved at them a little with a bitter smile. He did receive some squealing noises in return though. ¡°Sorry about this. They can be a little noisy. There aren¡¯t many men in the village you see. Everyone always gets excited when a beauty like you visits.¡± ¡°Hahaha¡­..thank you.¡± Being called a beauty, Kisei laughs with an awkward expression. He wasn¡¯t too happy being referred to like that. if he has to be honest, he would rather be described as a cool person instead. ¡°Nee, Nee, Nii-chan, Nee-chan!¡± While he was chatting with Shizuro, three girls ran up to Kisei and Saki with loud footsteps. Their appearance looked like they are still elementary schoolers and all three of them had similar faces. As it¡¯s pretty normal for Vulds to birth twins or triplets, these children are probably one as well. ¡°Wh, What is it?¡± While being taken aback a little by their enthusiasm, Kisei managed to answer. In return, the girls smiled and asked him a question. ¡°Nii-chan, where did you come from?¡± ¡°That¡¯s some difficult question huh¡­¡­..Before I came here I think I was in¡ª¡­..¡± ¡°You¡¯re wide open!¡± ¡°Guoh!¡± The two remaining girls suddenly tackled Kisei who was thinking about how to answer them. He couldn¡¯t even prepare himself so he was pushed down on the tatami mats and mounted by the girls. In the meantime, Shizuro tried to stop them in panic but he couldn¡¯t do much either. ¡°OOH, so it feels like this.¡± ¡°Uheheheh, your skin is so smooth!¡± ¡°So nice!¡± ¡°S, Stop it!¡± Although they are only children, they are still Vuld. Even as an adult Terran male, Kisei can¡¯t resist the children¡¯s physical strength. Albeit being below average in terms of physical strength himself, he couldn¡¯t shake out of their restraint even after he tried with all his might. ¡°Stop that!¡± However, the three children were easily stopped by two young women who stood up to help him. In a blink of an eye, the children were lifted off Kisei and they were all smacked in the head. ¡°D, Domestic violence¡­¡­.!¡± Kisei was terrified by the sudden violence. Judging from the sound alone, they should have hit the children with enough strength to knock out an adult Terran male. Still, aside from their teary eyes, they seem perfectly fine. As he expected, Vuld¡¯s physical ability is truly terrifying. ¡°I, I¡¯m so sorry for them! Hey, apologize to him, quick!¡± ¡°We¡¯re sorry!.¡± The girls¡¯ apology earned a bitter smile from Kisei. After telling them that they shouldn¡¯t do something like that again, he immediately forgave them. From Kisei¡¯s perspective, it only looked like the children were trying to play with him so he can¡¯t get angry at them anyway. However, knowing that the children were fully intent on molesting him, the young women repeatedly apologized to Kisei with a pale expression. ¡°We are truly sorry about the kids.¡± ¡°I will make sure to admonish them properly so¡­..¡± ¡°Please, I don¡¯t mind, they¡¯re only children after all.¡± Kisei¡¯s words were casual. Compared to the MPs who demanded a hug in exchange for letting him pass, this much is nothing at all. ¡°By the way, are you two the mothers of those children?¡± ¡°Yes, well, in a sense.¡± ¡°It wasn¡¯t us who gave birth to them but our elder sister.¡± Kisei awkwardly nodded to the reply from the two women. They are probably married to Shizuro as well. From a Terran¡¯s perspective, this kind of family is certainly strange. However, with that out of the way, he can now understand why there are so many children in the room. After all, If he has to count the three girls earlier, there are more than 10 children in this room alone. ¡°I see. Well, as you can see, I¡¯m a Terran. It¡¯s my first time to be in the care of a Vuld family like this so it¡¯s kind of an eye-opening experience for me you see.¡± ¡°Hee¡­..is this kind of family unusual on earth?¡± ¡°My place is, well, I only have one elder sister. Even after counting my parents, I think we only have 4 people total in the whole family. I just thought that it¡¯s amazing to have a big family like this.¡± ¡°4 people!? Th, That¡¯s certainly a small family isn¡¯t it¡­¡­.¡± The woman was both confused and surprised. From the perspective of a Vuld, who normally shares various kinds of housework among sisters, a normal Terran household certainly seems strange to them. They seemed to be interested in the topic and started asking Kisei a lot of questions. After that, the cross-cultural exchange continued until they finished their dinner. CH 108 Sharing Bed TLN: Futon more like¡­. ¡°Ahh, I¡¯m tired¡­¡­.¡± Kisei said as he lazily stretched on top of his futon. After dinner, the two were led to a vacant room so that they can rest for the day. Since the children were pestering them with all kinds of questions throughout the dinner, it¡¯s only reasonable for them to be tired out. ¡°Those children¡­¡­.they are amazing aren¡¯t they.¡± ¡°Yeah, well¡­¡­.we Vuld usually have to take care of our immediate younger sister after all. I¡¯m already used to it but is this your first time seeing a family like this, Kisei?¡± Sitting cross-legged on her own futon, Saki asked with a smile. The family prepared 2 bedrooms for them at first but when Saki learned that Kisei was pushed down by the children, she requested to sleep in the same room with him. It appears that she regretted not being there to protect him as she was taking a bath at the time. ¡°I guess so. The only sibling I have is my older sister after all. I don¡¯t have any relatives that are around the same age as me either. That¡¯s why I don¡¯t really have any chance to talk with children that age.¡± Kisei replies while waving his hand. His father ran off somewhere from an early age and his mother was always sick so she had to stay in the hospital. For him, who is already used to a lonely family with only his sister, such a noisy dining table was almost alien to him. ¡°Rather, when they suddenly climbed on me, I was surprised you know. Is it normal for Vuld children to do that?¡± ¡°Well, yeah. My place was mostly like this too.¡± Recalling what happened in the dining room, Kisei asked. There were so many mothers and children in the room so it felt like he was in a classroom at school instead of a common household¡¯s dining room. Knowing that this is ordinary for a Vuld family, Kisei can¡¯t help but feel shocked. ¡°That¡¯s amazing¡­¡­..¡± ¡°Hahaha, good job your own against them earlier.¡± Saki leaned over to Kisei and gently stroked his head. She seems to be very familiar with this so perhaps she did the same to her younger sisters in the past. ¡°Ahh¡­¡­¡± Saki hurriedly withdrew her hand when Kisei groaned with an awkward expression. ¡°My bad, was I acting too familiar?¡± ¡°No, it¡¯s not like that.¡± After shaking his head sideways, Kisei stood up and grabbed Saki¡¯s hand. Having her hand grabbed all of a sudden, Saki¡¯s cheeks turn red. ¡°I thought I always trouble everyone, you see.¡± ¡°L, Like who?.¡± ¡°Like you, Saki.¡± After letting her hand go, Kisei looked out the window. It¡¯s already dark outside and the starlight is illuminating the forest. With a slightly disappointed expression, Saki holds her now emptied hand. ¡°You must have been troubled right, having to stick with me all the time. If we weren¡¯t saved by the people here, we might have already starved to death.¡± ¡°Well¡­¡­.¡± Saki crossed her arms and frowned. She was about to tell him that he¡¯s being too distant but before she could, Kisei continued. ¡°Most likely, there will be another battle before we can meet up with our allies. Most of our ammo and propellant are already gone so it¡¯s definitely going to be harsh on us.¡± ¡°Seriously?¡± Saki moaned with a sullen expression. Due to their reckless plan of breaking through the enemy formation, their strikers are mostly depleted of the necessary supplies. Even Saki¡¯s signature move, the Electromagnetic Slash can not retain its accuracy. It¡¯s not that big of a deal but they are not in a state where they can fight properly. ¡°The enemy commander is very capable. Moreover, I have her full attention. It¡¯s strange that she didn¡¯t show up yet. I¡¯m sure that she is laying a trap for us somewhere.¡± ¡°Th, that woman¡¯s no joke after all¡­¡­¡± ¡°Well, all is good as long as we win. It will be super troublesome to deal with her but I¡¯m looking forward to it¡­¡­¡­¡± Said Kisei with a grin. He doesn¡¯t seem to be discouraged at all. On the other hand, Saki¡¯s expression turned even more strained. ¡°So, since you have to go along with my hobby, I¡¯m feeling somewhat guilty you see.¡± ¡°No matter how much you like playing with fire, there should be a limit, you know.¡± ¡°Well, that¡¯s true. Still, the next battle will be one that both I and her will give it our all. There aren¡¯t many things that can excite me like this.¡± ¡°You really have a strange hobby. I do get excited by fighting a good enemy myself but you are just built different.¡± When Saki pointed that out, Kisei shyly scratched his cheek. Naturally, Kisei himself is also aware of his bad habit. ¡°Just being alive is not that much fun after all. The only time I get to be someone that matters is inside a striker¡¯s cockpit. I can move however I want, and I can seriously fight others too.¡± ¡°¡­¡­..Don¡¯t start spouting nonsense now. Inside a striker or not, you are still you right.¡± Feeling that strangely unpleasant atmosphere, Saki faced Kisei. Kisei is still smiling but somehow, his smile looked strangely sad. ¡°Well¡­¡­.until I started fighting in a striker, I couldn¡¯t even earn my sister¡¯s medical fee you know. I tried a lot of things before I decided to become a mercenary too¡­¡­¡­but it was all useless. My body is weak and I¡¯m clumsy with my hand. It¡¯s not like I¡¯m good at using my head either.¡± ¡°¡­¡­¡­.¡± Kisei¡¯s words sound so meek that it doesn¡¯t seem like they came from him, who¡¯s always optimistic about everything. Unable to say anything, Saki can only look into his eyes. ¡°That¡¯s why I was so happy that I¡¯m so good at piloting strikers. As long as I¡¯m in a cockpit, I can help anyone in need and fight anyone I want.¡± ¡°Stop it, talking like that.¡± After clenching her teeth, Saki squeezed her voice out. To her, Kisei sounded like he only valued himself as a pilot. And that is unacceptable to Saki. ¡°But¡­..¡± ¡°Shut up.¡± Interrupting his words, Saki suddenly stood up. She then turned off the lamp and hugged Kisei. Just like that, they get into the futon together. ¡°Who cares about you being a pilot. Just become my hug pillow tonight.¡± ¡°H, How did it come to that.¡± Kisei was surprised and tried to wiggle out but he couldn¡¯t escape Saki¡¯s firm embrace. The soft-touch on his back also made him a little uncomfortable. He usually has his guard up and always puts on a poker face but due to his tiredness and Saki¡¯s suddenness, he couldn¡¯t fix his expression. That¡¯s why, in this rare moment, his face turned bright red. ¡°I don¡¯t want to hear you rationalizing everything anymore. Tonight you are my hug pillow! Any problem!?¡± ¡°N, No, ma¡¯am¡­..¡± If Saki¡¯s willing to go that far then Kisei has no choice but to give up. He can¡¯t escape her arms no matter what he does and it doesn¡¯t seem like she¡¯s going to do anything more than that either. That¡¯s why he gave up resisting and decided to stay quiet. ¡°L, Let¡¯s sleep then! We have to wake up early tomorrow. We wouldn¡¯t want to bother the people here too much after all.¡± ¡°Yeah.¡± Already giving up, Kisei indifferently shut his eyes. In the pitch-black room, the only sensation he felt was Saki¡¯s body temperature. Thinking that this is not so bad, Kisei relaxed his body and eventually fell asleep. ¡°¡­¡­..¡± However, that is not the case with Saki. Since Kisei is trusting her not to assault him, she can¡¯t betray his trust. However, asking her to not get excited at all is still impossible. In the end, her eyes stayed wide open until midnight. CH 109 The Long Awaited Ambush The next morning. Kisei and Saki left the village before sunrise. Since they are being pursued by the Noredian army, it wouldn¡¯t be good if they stay there too long. The two strikers were now flying over the snow-covered mountain top. The reason they are flying so high right now is that the only way they can bypass the Noredian net and get back to their main force is to cross this mountain range. ¡°They said that they were having a food shortage but they still spared us their preserved food huh¡­¡­..¡± Kisei said that while holding his control stick with a slightly awkward expression. Immediately before they left, the villagers gave them canned and other kinds of preserved food for their travel. Since the major cities on this planet were destroyed and the logistics have come to a halt, preserved foods like these should be extremely hard to find. They couldn¡¯t thank the villagers enough to give them such things for free. ¡°Well, they are very fond of you after all. If I was by myself, they wouldn¡¯t have given me the same treatment.¡± Answered Saki who looked clearly sleep-deprived but still has a strangely satisfied expression on her face. ¡°¡­¡­you think so?¡± ¡°Of course. I¡¯m sure they wanted to do something since they saw a man fighting for them. Still, since they don¡¯t have any weapons they are probably thinking that the least they can do is to cooperate with us right?¡± ¡°Hmmm¡­¡­is that the case? Well, I guess so¡­¡­¡± If he tries thinking about this situation while flipping his gender around, it¡¯s not like he can not understand their feelings. However, since it is about himself, he still feels somewhat uncomfortable about it. Naturally, he is still very grateful for their kindness though¡­¡­ ¡°Well, when this war is over, I think we should find a way to repay them. Let¡¯s buy some souvenirs and visit them again later.¡± ¡°Just the two of us?¡± ¡°Well, since they took care of both of us, it¡¯s a matter of course right.¡± ¡°Sounds great to me!¡± Saki slapped her knee while replying with a smile. ¡°Traveling alone with just the two of us doesn¡¯t sound that bad. I¡¯m kinda looking forward to it now.¡± ¡°Well, I¡¯m sure that someone will try to tag along though¡­¡­¡± Hearing Kisei, Saki frowned and stuck out her tongue. After all, if it¡¯s a tag-along, Schleer is the prime candidate. ¡°That¡¯s not funny you know.¡± ¡°You don¡¯t have to hate the idea so much you know¡­¡­¡± ¡°Well, see, I know that she¡¯s not a bad person or anything. But¡­¡­¡± ¡°But?¡± With her cheeks dyed red, Saki glanced at the [Caliburn-Revive] which was flying next to her. Without the use of its main thruster, the pure white striker which is now being propelled with only the thermonuclear engine of the jet armor seems to be squinting at her in doubt. Unable to find the right reply, Saki lightly stomped the floor of her cockpit. ¡°It¡¯s nothing!¡± ¡°A, Alright?¡± It¡¯s awkward to have such an atmosphere between them but he knows that if he poorly says something here, it will get even more awkward for them. Since Kisei is already quite experienced with something like this, he backed away without pursuing the topic. While being puzzled at why things get awkward between even though they are very compatible with each other on the battlefield, Kisei let out a small sigh. ¡°Anyway, that won¡¯t be happening until we win this war. At least we have to hurry up and kick them out of the country first.¡± ¡°That¡¯s true. Seriously, how troublesome.¡± With the threat of the Noredian army still present, they can¡¯t even travel freely between star systems. Moreover, the two are aces of the Calencian army. They will not be in a position that can move as they please until the war ends. While wishing for some leisure time for herself, Saki has a bitter expression on her face. ¡°We don¡¯t even know what¡¯s going on with the main force after all. I hope they are doing fine though.¡± ¡°Well, they should be fine. We¡¯ve already shaken their chain of command after all. They shouldn¡¯t be able to chase after our main force after that.¡± ¡°Haha, that¡¯s true. It must have been pretty embarrassing to let us get away even after going through such a disgrace. Their general should still be writhing in agony, don¡¯t you think?¡± Recalling Diaroze¡¯s disgrace, Saki gave a muffled laugh. ¡°I wonder about that.¡± With that brief reply, Kisei suddenly stops his striker. He then plugged the cable from the extra-large particle magazine which only has a few ammunition left into his blaster rifle. ¡°Well, let¡¯s go ask her ourselves.¡± With a grin, Kisei looks up to the sky. When Saki followed his line of sight, she saw 5 strikers heading toward them in the cloudless blue sky. She can only make out the outlines of the machines but it is clear that they are not your ordinary [Jettta]. It was Diaroze¡¯s [Zentis] that they fought the other day along with 3 of the 4 Heavenlys and Valentina¡¯s [Ortho Kratzer]. ¡°Geh, it¡¯s just like how you predicted yesterday!¡± ¡°As I thought, they were waiting for us. They brought all their Zenith with them too!¡± Hearing Kisei joyfully saying that, Saki felt cold sweat run down her back. The battle is 2 against 5. Moreover, the spec of the enemy machines far outclassed theirs. No matter how strong Kisei is, can they really win against them when most of their supplies have already been exhausted? ¡°Ugh, if they already know where we are then we don¡¯t have to refrain from using the radio anymore. I¡¯m sending an SOS!¡± The Noredian would find their whereabouts immediately if they use long-distance radio so they have been resorting to only laser communication that can¡¯t be intercepted but in a situation like this, they don¡¯t really have to worry about being detected anymore. Fortunately, they are flying at a high altitude at the moment. If they are lucky, their SOS signal should be able to reach the Calencian main force even with the Noredian communication jamming. ¡°I¡¯m going to leave that to you¡­¡­alright, this is getting interesting!¡± 5 Noredian Zeniths landed on a rocky slope field with snow. Leading them, the [Zentis] pointed the muzzle of its full-auto shotgun at the [Caliburn-Revive]. ¡°We finally meet again, Hokuto Kisei. You were so hard to find that I thought you ditched your striker and ran off somewhere you know?¡± ¡°No way.¡± Diaroze opened with a provocation but Kisei only answered her with a smile. ¡°I¡¯ve been looking forward to this too you know.¡± ¡°¡­¡­fool. This will be the last time I have to deal with you!¡± As though her words were their signal, the 5 Zeniths immediately accelerated toward Kisei and Saki. CH 110 Wicked Star VS the Four Heavenlys 1 The 3 of the 4 Heavenlys charge toward Kisei. With a twin Gatling gun, a twin mega blaster rifle, and a blaster magnum firing at him, Kisei immediately blew his thruster and used the mountain as cover. ¡°The Royal Zeniths¡­¡­¡­they are going for Saki huh!¡± Diaroze and Valentina did not charge at Kisei. Their plan is probably to deal with his wingman while leaving Kisei to the 4 Heavenlys. ¡°Can you hold on until I get rid of these guys?¡± ¡°Who do you think you are talking to! I will shoot them down myself!¡± Saki¡¯s desperate voice made Kisei smile. ¡°I will leave them to you then!¡± ¡°Alright!¡­¡­.you be careful too, Kisei. There are only 3 of the 4 Heavenlys here. They must be planning something.¡± ¡°Right, if she didn¡¯t run off first that is!¡± Kisei shouted in reply while receiving a blow from the [Van Wolf]¡¯s long sword with his photon saber. ¡°That¡¯s hurtful, you know, talking about someone who isn¡¯t even here when I¡¯m right in front of you!¡± ¡°My bad!¡± Kisei unintentionally smiles at Tersis¡¯s complaint. This is the third time he has fought her so he was not surprised by the sharpness of her blow. Besides, she is not his only enemy. The heavy-duty Zenith, the [Pafeel] is firing at him with four powerful cannons. ¡°EII, STAY STILL!¡± ¡°I won¡¯t let you off if you accidentally shoot me in the back okay, you idiot noble!¡± ¡°Who are you calling an idiot noble! You stupid commoner!¡± In addition, there is also the [Zarava] who¡¯s blasting its blaster magnum at Kisei accurately between the [Pafeel]¡¯s attack. Even Kisei can¡¯t counterattack in a situation like this. Right now, he¡¯s currently avoiding their shots while occasionally hitting some back toward them. ¡°WaHaHaHaHa! I¡¯m in a tough spot aren¡¯t I!¡± In the previous battle, Kisei was able to gain a considerable advantage due to the dense forest. However, this time even though they are fighting in a mountainous area, there¡¯s practically no cover for him as they are fighting near the mountain top. Kisei couldn¡¯t be in any worse situation. ¡°Whoah!¡± The barrage from the twin Gatling gun swept the snow surface, causing a small avalanche. Kicking off the snowy slope, Kisei fired his thruster at full power. While escaping the cloud of smoke, he also deflected the shot from the [Zarava]¡¯s blaster magnum back at it. ¡°Same trick over and over again!¡± Making a sharp turn, Nora managed to avoid the deflected beam. On the other hand, Tersis immediately filled in that gap and thrust full speed at Kisei with her longsword, the tip of her blade reflect the glaring sunlight. ¡°You¡¯re fast¡­..but!¡± Kisei parried the blow using his photon saber before kicking off the [Van Wolf] and circle behind it. The [Calburn-Revive] then fired its head-mounted machine gun at one of the [Van Wolf]¡¯s thrusters on its back, destroying it. ¡°As expected, you really excite me!¡± Tersis joyfully smiles even though Kisei just disables one of her thrusters. On the other hand, Kisei couldn¡¯t afford to give her a reply as the low-fuel warning sound started to ring inside his cockpit. He pulled his control stick with both hands and the chalky striker performed a somersault under the blue sky, avoiding the barrage of bullets flying from the [Pafeel]. ¡°Tsk!¡± The [Zarava] fired its thruster to close in on him but Kisei immediately stopped its advance by firing at it. His shots were terrifyingly accurate and a beam struck the abdomen of the [Zarava]. It was repelled by its thick armor but the second shot which was fired immediately right after landed on the exact same place. This time, although the shot did not penetrate, the [Zarava]¡¯s armor surface became red hot. ¡°Damn you!¡± Nora screamed as she put her all into avoiding the third shot. Cold sweats start to gather on her well-arranged face. If her evasion was only a little slower, the [Zarava] would have been shot down already. ¡°I guess I was being too hasty too huh¡­¡­!¡± At the same time, Kisei was also being cornered. He only has one last round left in his blaster rifle so he can¡¯t use the same trick anymore. The reason behind his impatience is that he wants to get rid of them quickly to go help Saki. As strong as she is, the glimpse he caught of Saki¡¯s battle at the corner of his eye is not looking too good. It can be said that she¡¯s putting up quite a proper fight even though she is up against two Royal Zeniths that are overwhelmingly superior in terms of performance. She probably can¡¯t keep up with them for long. ¡°Unwilling as I am, I have to admit that you are not someone I can face alone. If you want to laugh at our cowardice then do it!¡± Eleanor who saw through Kisei¡¯s dilemma said that in a tone that is a mixture of sympathy and awe. He¡¯s a pilot that can put up an equal fight against three of the strongest strikers and pilots the Nored Empire has to offer. Knowing that this situation is anything but normal, Eleanor no longer has the prideful attitude she showed at the 4 Heavenlys meeting. ¡°I won¡¯t laugh. Still, this is both fun and frustrating at the same time, seriously!¡± Kisei shouted while glancing at Saki who was fighting in the distance. At this rate, he can no longer afford to go assist Saki. This time, cold sweat starts to trail down from Kisei¡¯s forehead. CH 111 Wicked Star VS the 4 Heavenlys 2 ¡°Damn it, even if you emphasized speed there should still be a limit right!¡± Saki shouted while avoiding the onslaught from Valentina¡¯s [Ortho Kratzer]. Naturally, since it is a Nored Royal Zenith, a Calencian Zenith like the [Dainsleif] is incomparable in terms of both power and speed. ¡°That Kisei, he defeated something like this with only the [Gradius-kai]!?¡± ¡°I share your sentiment. His skill is truly out of this world.¡± Replied Valentina with a calm voice through the public channel. With both her equipment and supplies in perfect condition, she has no fear for the [Dainsleif] which is now damaged and exhausted of most of its ammunition. ¡°But his skill will not matter in this situation! No matter how strong he is, the victory will be mine.¡± Diaroze triumphantly said as she fire her full-auto shotgun. Some of the scattered shots also hit the [Ortho Kratzer] as she continues to blast it but it¡¯s not particularly a problem.¡± ¡°Aneue! Please don¡¯t use your shotgun in close-quarter combat!¡± ¡°A couple of rounds from this thing won¡¯t even scratch your armor right! Start acting like an Imperial Princess and stop making a big deal out of it!¡± The two were arguing but they were not careless enough to let up their attack. While blocking the beam fired from the [Ortho Kratzer]¡¯s lance, Saki fired her submachine gun back in retaliation. However, Valentina easily avoided it with agile movements. ¡°Fuhahaha! You did well fighting us this far in that scrap metal! I will give you that!¡± Diaroze¡¯s laughter echoed as the [Zentis[ accelerated toward [Dainsleif]. Saki ready her hand to unleash the electromagnetic slash but before she could unsheathe the sword, Diaroze¡¯s whip was swung toward her. ¡°Woah! That almost got me.¡± Saki groaned while watching the lightning-infused whip cutting through the sky. A whip has a longer reach than a sword so in a melee fight, it is quite a troublesome weapon to deal with. Judging so, Saki decided to fire the head-mounted machine gun to retaliate but her bullets simply bounce off the [Zentis]¡¯s armor. ¡°Tsk, guess I can¡¯t do it like Kisei huh!¡± ¡°Your back is wide open you know!¡± ¡°Ah!¡± Relying solely on her reflex, Saki managed to avoid the lance of the [Ortho Kratzer] which came at her from behind. The tip of Valentina¡¯s lance only scratch the paint off her armor but using the moment she leaped away, Diaroze caught the [Dainsleif] with her electric whip. ¡°AHHHHHHH!¡± Sparks run through the [Dainsleif] and the current flows through the insulator, electrifying the cockpit. Along with Saki¡¯s scream, the [Dainsleif] crashed onto the mountain surface. ¡°Hahahaha, music to my ears!¡± ¡°Y, You bitch!¡± Rolling on the ground, Saki desperately avoids the pursuit from the [Zentis] longsword. She tried to fire her thruster to fly away but after the initial leap, her striker abruptly came to a stop with a loud noise. It appears that she is now out of propellant. She can still use the extra mobility from the Jet Armor but in the end, it is only a support device. This means that the [Dainsleif] has lost most of its mobility. ¡°Th, This is bad.¡± ¡°Hmph, end of the line huh.¡± Valentina muttered with a sympathetic look and fully fired her thruster to charge at the [Dainsleif] which is now lazily floating in the sky. ¡°Not yet, I can still fight!¡± However, Saki hasn¡¯t given up yet. Pressing a switch on her console, Saki cut off the recoil control and fired her head-mounted machine gun. Using the recoil and the thrust from the Jet Armor, she managed to move away. ¡°What!?¡± Valentina was surprised by Saki who barely managed to avoid her charge. On the other hand, Saki pulled the trigger with a smirk. ¡°Eat this!¡± The Electromagnetic slash was unleashed. The blade which was ejected at high-speed assault the [Ortho Kratzer]. The sound of metal clashing metal echoes, then¡ª- ¡°Wha¡­¡­¡± The blade of her katana which had already reached its limit due to the continuous battles shattered. As her eyes track the fragments of her blade which are scattering in the sky, Saki¡¯s expression froze. ¡°The victory would have been yours if you were in a perfect condition¡­¡­.you have my sympathy.¡± On the other hand, the unscathed Valentina muttered so with a difficult expression. She then pulled out the photon saber mounted on the waist of the [Ortho Kratzer] and aimed it at the defenseless [Dainsleif]. ¡°It was a good fight.¡± Imitating Kisei, she thrust her photon saber at the abdomen of the [Dainsleif] where its engine was installed. The crimson blade easily penetrated the armor and Valentina silently watched as the [Dainsleif] go into a free fall. ¡°WHAT¡­¡­!?¡± However, the next moment, a thick beam pierced the abdomen of the [Ortho Kratzer]. Its upper and lower body miserably broke apart and fell toward the mountain. Inside the cockpit which has now lost power, Valentina looks toward her attacker. ¡°I couldn¡¯t make it huh¡­¡­¡± ¡°Who¡¯s there!¡± Diaroze shouted while glaring at the direction in which the beam was fired. The CH 112 Wicked Star VS the Four Heavenly 3 ¡°How did their reinforcement manage to get here [DESU]!¡± In the middle of a fierce battle with Kisei, Nora was confused by Schleer¡¯s arrival. This mountain range is located far from the coast where the Calencian army was so it was assumed that even if the rescue signal was sent out, no reinforcements would be able to make it in time to get in their way. ¡°It¡¯s a ballistic flight! This woman flew up to orbit alone and dropped down on us! EEII, how annoying!¡± (TLN: Ballistic flight is the method of flying relying on gravity, looked it up on Wikipedia lol) Diaroze bitterly complained as she moved in to engage Schleer. Normally, any aircraft that attempted to climb up to an altitude high enough for the ballistic flight would be shot down by the Noredian Anti-air defenses. However, relying on the mobility of her Zenith, Schleer forcibly pushed through. The proof is that her soldiers are not with her right now. ¡°I was always on standby in case we receive a rescue signal you see!¡± Schleer replied with a full-on smug face. Although the [Dainsleif] was shot down, it was confirmed that Saki was safe and she managed to avoid the worst-case scenario. Moreover, she also took down Valentina with a surprise attack and is now holding Diaroze back for Kisei. ¡°I will hold this woman back. Please take care of the 4 Heanvenlys, Kisei-san!¡± ¡°Leave them to me!¡± Kisei replied with a grin while parrying Tersis¡¯s longsword with his bayonet. He also tried to kick at the abdomen of the [Van Wolf] but as expected, its shield was too thick. ¡°Tersis-sama!¡± Hearing Eleanor¡¯s voice, Tersis immediately backed away. At the same time, a barrage from the [Pafeel]¡¯s twin Gatling Gun heads toward the [Caliburn-Revive]. Kisei stepped away to avoid it. His propellant is running low so he can not make any big movement using the main thruster. If he had used his thruster to avoid the earlier barrage, the propellant would have run out already. ¡°Hmph, look at you! You can¡¯t possibly hold out much longer even with that striker¡¯s help!¡± ¡°You think so!?¡± Kisei replied to Eleanor¡¯s provocation with a triumphant smile but the reality is that this situation is still very disadvantageous for him. During that exchange, the blaster magnum was fired at him again so he had to hide behind a rock but the [Van Wolf] immediately started pursuing him. ¡°Mmm¡­.!¡± Kisei¡¯s photon saber managed to receive Tersis¡¯s blade but since he took her blow head-on, he was greatly pushed back by its power. ¡°I wanted to battle you with a striker of similar spec but¡­¡­.!¡± While her voice was filled with regret, Tersis¡¯s attack was fierce. She keeps pursuing Kisei with a series of skillful attacks. Unable to cope with her, Kisei kicked the ground and retreated backward. ¡°I got you!¡± Tersis did not let that chance go and sharply stepped in to swing her sword down. ¡°You fell for it!¡± However, the [Van Wolf]¡¯s legs were entangled by Kisei¡¯s wire gun, making it flip and roll on the ground. ¡°NUaah!¡± ¡°This is it for you! ¡­¡­¡­no, I guess not huh!¡± Catching a glimpse of the [Zarava] and the [Pafeel] aiming at him to provide cover for Tersis, Kisei¡¯s expression turned troubled albeit happy at the same time. He gives up delivering the finishing blow and instead uses his head-mounted machine gun to fire at the thruster on the back of the [Van Wolf] which is still lying defenselessly on the ground. The main thruster seemed unable to withstand the second shot, causing a small explosion. ¡°What are you doing attacking a disabled opponent [DESU!]¡± ¡°M, Mm¡­¡­so strong, as I thought!¡± Ignoring Nora who immediately condemned his action, Tersis muttered that with an ecstatic expression. Clearly agitated by the situation, Eleanor also starts to break into cold sweats. ¡°Ugh¡­..a cornered rat will bite a cat. This is going to be tough for us¡­¡­!¡± In that state, a calm voice unfit for the heated battlefield rings out. ¡°This is Liren. I am in the sniping position. Ready when you are.¡± ¡°Finally! Don¡¯t mind us, take the shot now!¡± ¡°Roger that¡­¡­¡± The figure of Liren¡¯s striker can not be seen at all in the surrounding mountain tops. So, where is she? The answer is space. ¡°Weather data calculation¡­¡­completed.¡± A purple striker was floating in the low orbit of Senstera Prime. It is equipped with a long blaster cannon that is more than twice its length, its muzzle pointing down at the mountain ranges. ¡°Adjusting aim, alright.¡± Liren¡¯s striker is also equipped with a high-performance active stealth device. Even with the latest high-performance radar, it is practically impossible to spot its location from the planet¡¯s surface. In the first place, even if her location was found out, a common striker does not have any weapon that can counterattack through the thick atmosphere. This attack that outranges everything by making use of the overwhelming distance is a sure-win strategy devised by Liren who¡¯s the most afraid of Kisei. Above all, it felt reassuring that she does not have to deal with a counterattack from him. ¡°Locked on¡­¡­.¡± Using the maximum zoom, she locks her sight at the pure white Zenith projected on her aiming monitor and licks her dry lips. ¡°Firing.¡± The next moment, a shot of outrageously compressed particles was released from the chamber and accelerated to sub-light speed by the innumerable magnetic rings inside the barrel. The crimson ultra-high power beam instantly penetrates the atmosphere and falls toward Kisei. The snowcap immediately turns to steam with a big explosion. ¡°O HO HO HO HO! Now the [Wicked Star] is finished! (Desuwa)!¡± As the steam explosion rocks the mountain, Eleanor¡¯s laughter rang out¡­¡­¡­ CH 113 Wicked Star VS the 4 Heavenly 4 ¡°D, did we really do it!? H, How terrible¡­..¡± Diaroze screamed as the mountain surface was covered in the pure white mist from the steam explosion. Although she was the one who decided on this strategy, she said that as if she had no responsibility whatsoever in it. That being said, it appears that she meant what she said as tears can be seen on the corners of her eyes. However, her worries were completely unfounded. ¡°This is Liren, my striker was shot down¡­..I can not continue the operation¡­¡­.¡± ¡°H, How!?¡± Eleanor was inevitably confused. The [Caliburn-Revive] should not have any weapon that can pierce through the atmosphere. Moreover, the idea that the Calencian army attacked Liren who had a state-of-the-art active stealth device was simply ridiculous. The detail of this operation where they stationed Liren as a sniper from outside the atmosphere is supposed to be a top-secret only known to Diaroze and the 4 Heavenlys along with a few other people. ¡°Liren was in low orbit you know!? There¡¯s no way that an attack from his striker can reach that fa-¡­¡­..¡± How did his attack reach Liren? The answer is simple. He avoided Liren¡¯s shot with a paper-thin margin and fired his blaster rifle back at almost the exact same trajectory of the incoming beam. The place where the high-power beam from Liren¡¯s sniper cannon passed through became a vacuum for a moment and with no resistance from the atmosphere, his shot easily reached her location in the low orbit. Moreover, his beam went inside the muzzle of a blaster cannon filled with compressed particles. Naturally, what followed was a gigantic explosion. A light-armored striker like Liren¡¯s can not possibly withstand such a large explosion. ¡°Lady Eleanor! Look out! He¡¯s still¡­¡­¡± Tersis tried to warn her comrades but it was too late. From amidst the steam, the pair of blue shining eyes glare at them. Then, the [Pafeel]¡¯s twin Gatling gun was destroyed by the photon saber that was silently thrown toward it. ¡°Ah!?¡± While Eleanor was making that disgraceful scream, the [Caliburn-Revive] fired its thruster and closed in on the [Pafeel] like it was cutting through the cloud of steam. Still bewildered, Eleanor couldn¡¯t cope with that sudden charge with her sluggish movement. ¡°I¡¯m taking you first!¡± While parrying away the mega blaster rifle she hurriedly held up to protect herself, he drove the pile bunker into the face of the [Pafeel]. With its head pierced, the [Pafeel] stumbled backward. ¡°S, Stop¡­.¡± Eleanor pleaded so but the pile bunker mercilessly proceeded on to assault the abdomen of the [Pafeel]. Although that did not pierce through its thick armor, Eleanor who felt the strong impact inside her cockpit involuntarily covered her mouth. ¡°One more!¡± Since she was still in shock, she couldn¡¯t deal with the follow-up attack. Following the noise of the stake being winded back, the second strike from the pile bunker pierced through the armor and disable the [Pafeel]¡¯s engine. ¡°U, Uoagh¡­¡­¡± Along with that graphic voice, the [Pafeel] collapsed. ¡°Ugh, don¡¯t get ahead of yourself!¡± From behind, the [Zarava] rushed at him with tremendous speed. However, with the [Parfeel] right next to him, she can not use her magnums. Having no other choice, she strikes at him with her bayonet but Kisei immediately somersaults backward while still turning his back at her. ¡°Kuh!¡± Nora hurriedly pointed her blaster magnums at him but what she saw next was the muzzle of the anti-ship grenade launcher on the back of the [Caliburn-Revive] pointing toward her. ¡°Wha!?¡± With no time to avoid it, she reflexively guarded the body with both arms the moment Kisei fired it at her. A big explosion followed and the arms of the [Zarava] were blown away. ¡°Y, You little!¡± Purely out of spite, she fired the grenade launcher installed on the [Zarava]¡¯s chest which the [Caliburn-Revive] easily avoided. Landing behind the [Zarava], the [Caliburn-Revive] once again fired its thruster. The thrust last for only a few seconds but it was enough to propel him toward her. ¡°Ah¡­¡­¡± Seeing the iron stake reflecting the sunlight, Nora lost control of her bladder out of fear. In less than a second later, a devastating metallic sound echoes. Unlike with the [Pafeel] the abdominal armor of the [Zarava] was easily pierced with one blow since her regenerative armor was already exhausted from the earlier shot from his anti-ship grenade launcher. With its power cut off, the [Zarava] collapsed. ¡°Muh¡­..¡± However, due to the continuous abuse, the iron stake has bent out of shape. As the pile bunker tried to wind back its stake, it made a strange noise and began to tremble. ¡°I, It¡¯s broke¡­¡­what do I have left¡­¡­¡± Kisei hurriedly pulled out the anti-ship grenade launcher from the back but its barrel was brutally torn. It appeared that the earlier blast from the earlier close-up shot destroyed it. Naturally, it¡¯s not usable anymore. Giving up on using it, he throws it away. ¡°This is bad.¡± The only weapon that can be used right now is the bayonet attached to the blaster rifle which has already run out of bullets. Even for Kisei, he can¡¯t help but feel anxious about his situation. While he was doing that, the [Van Wolf] that finally caught up pointed its sword at him. Because its main thruster was destroyed, it can only propel itself with the sub-thruster which is much slower. Even against a normal striker, it shouldn¡¯t be able to keep up. ¡°How,¡­¡­how wonderful! What splendid skills! Now we can have our long-awaited duel. Let¡¯s settle this once and for all!¡± Hearing Tersis¡¯s euphorically screaming as she rushed at him, Kisei can¡¯t help but cheerfully smiled. ¡°Bring it on then¡­..!¡± CH 114 Wicked Star VS the 4 Heavenly 5 An onslaught of slashes assaults Kisei as he continues to parry them with his bayonet. ¡°Mmm¡­..¡± However, it¡¯s clear that he is at a disadvantage. In terms of both power and speed, the [Van Wolf] is overwhelmingly superior. Each time he blocked her attack, the [Caliburn-Revive] would take a step back. With no propellant left, it¡¯s also impossible for him to leap away and get some breathing room either. ¡°If our strikers were on par with each other¡¯s, I would have been beaten already. Seriously, facing a strong guy like you¡­..I couldn¡¯t be more excited than this!¡± Even though two of her comrades have already been disabled, Tersis continues to fearlessly fight him. No, accurately speaking, including Valentina, the three people who were shot down are no longer in her mind. ¡°That¡¯s why this is so regrettable¡­¡­.it¡¯s truly a shame! Why do I have to fight you in a one-sided situation like this! Ahh, I want to do this again properly!¡± ¡°Don¡¯t be stupid! We finally managed to corner him this far you know!¡± Diaroze involuntarily shouted. Three of the 4 Heavenlys were already shot down. In addition, albeit by a dirty surprise attack, Valentina, an imperial princess was also defeated. If they were to fail after all this, Diaroze¡¯s reputation would plummet to an irreversible level. That being said, it might have already been too late for that though. ¡°Stop spouting nonsense and take him down already!¡± While avoiding the marriage from Schleer¡¯s heavy machine gun, Diaroze strongly commanded Tersis. Like Kisei, the battle between her and Schleer is also in a stalemate. The difference between their strikers was obvious but the strangely enthusiastic Schleer appears to be quite tenacious. ¡°¡­..no way around it then!¡± Tersis takes a stance with her sword and quietly mutters. Seeing that, Kisei slowly moves the tip of his bayonet in a circular motion. The next moment, a strong thrust assault the [Caliburn-Revive] with a lightning-fast step. Kisei catches it with the edge of his bayonet and alternates its trajectory. ¡°Uu!?¡± However, the joint that the bayonet is attached to has already reached its limit. With a high-pitched sound, the joint broke and the bayonet was blown away. Seeing that the [Caliburn-Revive] has lost its balance, a second attack immediately followed. With no time to avoid it, Kisei reflexively received the blade with the body of his blaster rifle. ¡°¡­¡­..well done!¡± ¡°I¡¯m not done yet!¡± Tersis grinned as she pushed her sword into the rifle which is now crackling with sparks. Eventually, the blade digs itself into the rifle and it is cut in half. ¡°Guh¡­¡­!¡± A mere moment before the rifle was cut, Kisei managed to throw it away and escaped Tersis¡¯s blade. However, because of that awkward movement, his striker lost its balance and stumbled backward. Tersis immediately closed in on the now defenseless [Caliburn-Revive]. On the other hand, Kisei has no way to intercept her attack as he has lost almost all of his weapons. ¡°KISEI-SAN! TAKE THIS!¡± However, at that moment, Schleer, who was fighting Diaroze, ejected her Zweihander using the electromagnetic ejection mechanism installed in her shoulder guard, sending it flying toward him. Although it flew toward him like a bullet, Kisei managed to catch the two-handed sword. ¡°Thanks!¡± ¡°Wha!?¡± Her help came at the perfect timing. With sparks flying and a jarring noise of metal grazing against each other, Kisei pushed back Tersis¡¯s sword. On the other hand, Tersis gritted her teeth and stepped in once again. ¡°Take this!¡± Furiously, she swings her longsword down toward him. ¡°DO YOU THINK!¡± However, Kisei easily maneuver the Zweihander and intercepted it. Almost at the same time, he kicked up the snow below, sending it to the [Van Wolf]¡¯s main camera. ¡°Nn!?¡± ¡°I WILL!¡± Suddenly deprived of her vision, Tersis¡¯s movement slowed down for a moment. Using that chance, Kisei raised the Zweihander up with a grin. ¡°LET YOU PUSH ME BACK FOREVER!¡± It was a downward swing from an upper stance. However, Tersis managed to cope with this despite the loss of visuals as she put up her shield to defense against the extra-large sword. ¡°Kuh!?¡± Still, that much was already anticipated by Kisei. Before Tersis could launch her counterattack, Kisei swept up her feet. Unable to react to that unexpected attack, the [Van Wolf]¡¯s left shoulder was pierced by the tip of the Zweihander and collapsed to the ground. ¡°Wonderful¡­¡­!¡± While glancing at the words [Left Arm Malfunction] on her sub-monitor, Tersis used her control stick and retreated back with a joyful expression. Although she had to roll on the ground, she managed to avoid Kisei¡¯s follow-up attack and stood up using the momentum. ¡°But! I still¡­¡­¡± ¡°SEIYAHHH!!¡± However, when the [Van Wolf] stood up, the [Caliburn-Revive] broke into a run and performed a strong flying kick at its chest. The vermillion striker was blown away and danced weightlessly in the air. It then collided with a rocky mountain surface and collapsed down with a loud noise. ¡°This is the end!¡± Using the thermonuclear jet in his extra armor, Kisei propelled forward and the tip of the Zweihander flew straight toward the abdomen of the [Van Wolf]. Tersis tried to avoid it but after being violently shaken inside her cockpit, she couldn¡¯t control her striker well. As a result, the [Van Wolf] got its abdomen pierced and lost its power. ¡°Now¡­..only one more!¡± As Kisei pulled the sword out of the [Van Wolf] with some difficulty, he turns toward the place where Schleer and Diaroze should be fighting. However, what met him was a shocking sight. The [Mistilteinn] is now wrapped in an electric net fired by the shoulder cannon of Diaroze¡¯s [Zentis]. ¡°Ah, AHHHHHH!!¡± He can hear Schleer¡¯s anguish voice from the radio. Kisei tries to get over to her in a hurry but it was already too late as Diaroze mercilessly pointed her longsword at the [Mistilteinn]¡¯s cockpit. ¡°Haa, Haa, Haaa¡­¡­..I made it. Kukukuku¡­¡­¡± Inside her cockpit, Diaroze¡¯s expression turned to joy. She then turns her passionate eyes toward the [Caliburn-Revive]. ¡°I have to thank you, Hokuto Kisei. Thanks to you, I managed to defeat this woman.¡± To give her sword to Kisei, Schleer had to make an unreasonable move. Using that opportunity, Diaroze went all-in on her. ¡°Now, let¡¯s make a deal. Drop your weapon now or consider this woman¡¯s life forfeit.¡± With an extremely joyful voice, Diaroze made her demand. CH 115 Hostage Exchange ¡°Wh, Wh, What are you saying!¡± As her striker lay on the ground, Schleer shouted. Taking hostages is not looked upon kindly by aristocrats. One could say that Diaroze¡¯s action here is unthinkable. ¡°If you are going to kill me then hurry up and do it!¡± With tears of anger and shame in her eyes, Schleer roared. That would be better than putting up with this disgrace. However, in contrast to her, Kisei started to panic. ¡°S, Stop! Don¡¯t be stupid! Why would you ask her to kill you like that!!¡± ¡°B, But¡­¡­¡± ¡°But what!? You only have one life you know!!¡± Being shouted at by Kisei, Schleer shut her mouth. She was shocked by this side of him that she has never seen before. ¡°If I surrender, will you really spare her?¡± ¡°¡­¡­Eh!?¡± For some reason, Diaroze, whose expression has already melted from joy, was shaken by Kisei¡¯s words. ¡°Y, Yeah. I will spare her. The Calencian army that lost Hokuto Kisei is no longer a threat. I wouldn¡¯t mind letting a backwater princess or two live.¡± Rather, it would be better for Diaroze if she let Schleer go back alive. Without Kisei, she would be able to squarely defeat the Calencian army from the front. This time she needs to defeat Schleer fair and square to regain her lost honor. ¡°¡­¡­.Understood.¡± The i-con system allows Kisei to read others¡¯ thoughts to some extent and he knows that she isn¡¯t lying. Gritting his teeth, Kisei let out a deep sigh before throwing away the Zweihander, his only remaining weapon. ¡°Kisei-san!¡± Schleer shouted with an almost crying voice. Diaroze, on the other hand, excitedly exhaled with her heated breath before replying to Kisei with a big smile. ¡°Alright, now walk over to me. Slowly. If you make any strange movement I will stab the cockpit.¡± ¡°¡­..yes, yes.¡± Kisei no longer has any option but to obey. With his hands raised up, he approaches the [Zentis]. ¡°That¡¯s right, just like that! Now jump into my cockpit!¡± When Kisei arrived in front of the [Zentis], he opened his cockpit hatch and does as he was told. Seeing that, Diaroze pressed the switch to open her cockpit with a trembling hand. ¡°Fu, Fufufufu¡­¡­we¡¯ve finally met, Hokuto Kisei! J, Just like rumors, it seems that you are quite a beauty huh. Kukuku¡­¡­¡± ¡°You damn pervert! Go burn in hell, you despicable woman!¡± Schleer screamed as she can¡¯t bear what¡¯s happening but it simply went through Diaroze¡¯s ears. With excitement, Diaroze looks at Kisei¡¯s body as if she was licking him whole. ¡°O, Oops, it seems that you are packing something dangerous huh? Ditch that holster.¡± ¡°¡­..I didn¡¯t put a gun in this though.¡± Kisei seems extremely unwilling to throw it away but this is no time to be making excuse. He removed his lollipop holster from his thigh and threw it out of the cockpit.¡± ¡°Good, good, GOOD, Alright! Now, hop in!¡± ¡°Argh, seriously¡­¡­¡± With a sigh, Kisei entered the [Zentis]¡¯s cockpit. Then, Diaroze proceeded to kick the now unmanned [Caliburn-Revive] with a vile smile on her face. The 12 meters tall white giant tumbled to the ground with a loud noise. ¡°Uwah!?¡± Kisei lost his balance from the sudden movement and collapsed forward where Diaroze received him. Diaroze then operates the control stick with her right hand alone while hugging him with her left arm. With that done, she closed the cockpit hatch and take a few steps back with the [Zentis]. ¡°Alright, you may stand¡­..woman. Hokuto Kisei is mine now.¡± ¡°Kuuh¡­¡­¡± While clenching her teeth with enough force to crush them, Schleer slipped her striker out of the electrifying net and stood up. She wanted to just blast Diaroze¡¯s striker away with her blaster cannon but she can¡¯t do anything as long as Kisei is in there with her. ¡°I will give you a one-week truce. Well, do your best to build up your army until then.¡± As long as the Calencian lost their joker, Hokuto Kisei, they won¡¯t be able to win against the better-equipped Noredian army. The Noredian army is overwhelmingly superior in both quality and quantity. Moreover, with the cornerstone of their morale lost, the Calencian surely can¡¯t put up a decent fight. All that is left is to decide on how to play with them, thought Diaroze. Still, it is not something that they can settle in a couple of days. Although she wants to finish this as soon as possible, Diaroze decided to give the Calencian side a small grace period. ¡°Now, hurry up and get out of my sight. As I promised, I will let you go back alive. Kukuku¡­¡­.¡± ¡°¡­¡­.you better prepare yourself the next time we meet.¡± Schleer, who was barely able to squeeze her voice out through her teeth, has a blue vein popping up on her forehead. She then silently fired her thruster to retrieve Saki¡¯s [Dainsleif] that was lying a little distance away from them. ¡°Kisei-san, I¡¯m truly sorry about this. I will definitely save you.¡± After saying that much, Schleer flew away without even waiting for his reply. Seeing her off, Diarroze lets go of her control stick and hugs Kisei with both arms. ¡°Finally¡­¡­finally I got my hands on you! From now on you are mine! I won¡¯t let anyone else have you¡­¡­!¡± With a hot breath blowing on his ears, a chill ran down Kisei¡¯s spine. CH 116 The Hostage Ace ¡°Game over huh¡­¡­¡± Kisei groaned as he rolled on top of the luxurious canopy bed. It¡¯s nice to be able to lay down on this fine bedding but due to his situation, he can¡¯t enjoy it at all. After all, he is now a prisoner. It had already been more than a full day since he was captured by Diaroze. Kisei was brought aboard the [Odelvansen], the Noredian flagship, and is being held captive in a lavish room. ¡°What should I do now¡­¡­¡± Naturally, the door is always locked and he can¡¯t escape. While opening the refrigerator in his room, Kisei sighed. The refrigerator was packed with many sweets such as cakes and buns. He found strawberry daifuku inside and took it out with an awkward expression. ¡°It¡¯s unexpectedly comfortable here though. Well, I guess I should be grateful for that.¡± After enjoying the strawberry daifuku, Kisei mutters to himself. Not only food but he was also provided with books and other means to pass his time in this room. Given that he is a POW, this treatment is overly generous. It¡¯s like they are treating him like royalty or an aristocrat. Still, he doesn¡¯t really like it. After all, the clothes that were prepared for him were Vuld¡¯s high-class male wear with high exposure. For what reason would Diaroze prepare such dresses for him? That is easy to guess. ¡°So this is finally the end of my virginity huh. Give me a break.¡± Of course, Kisei also has his sexual desire, it¡¯s not like he hates women or anything. However, with Vuld women¡¯s physical strength being equal to a gorilla, no matter how attractive they look, he just can¡¯t help but feel scared of them. ¡°Haaa¡­¡­¡± Kisei let out a deep sigh. With how depressing things are for him, he threw himself back on the bed and buried his face on the pillow. ¡°Scent of roses¡­¡­.is it perfume?¡± He lifted himself up and whispered. The bed itself is very good and it is absolutely comfortable. Of course, they also tidied the bed perfectly but he can¡¯t help but notice the lingering scent of its previous owner. Meaning someone has been using it before him until recently. ¡°Just whose room is it¡­¡­.¡± It is clear that this is not a room designed to hold a POW. Not only the bed but also the furniture and decorations all have traces that they have been used every day. Feeling a strange chill, Kisei let out another sigh. ¡°Oi, I¡¯m coming in okay.¡± Suddenly, the door opened. It was Diaroze who entered the room. While ignoring the surprised and stiffened Kisei, she locked the door behind her. ¡°I brought you food.¡± With that said, Diaroze put down a box with sushi inside. The box contains plenty of sushi that was clearly made of organic ingredients. ¡°¡­¡­.I never could have imagined that the general herself would deliver me my meal you know.¡± ¡°Hmph¡­¡­I would be troubled if you got taken away by a random soldier after all.¡± The only kidnapper here is you though. Such thoughts came to Kisei¡¯s mind but it seems that Diaroze is in a good mood so he didn¡¯t say it out loud. ¡°Does it look like anyone wants to kidnap me?¡± ¡°Ha?¡± Diaroze mockingly smiled at Kisei before walking in front of him. Then, she strokes his cheek before lifting his chin up with her finger. ¡°Have you never looked at yourself in a mirror? No matter what situation you are in, there will always be people who want to take you away, you know.¡± ¡°Since it seems that I¡¯m held in such a high regard, I guess I should be happy about it.¡± ¡°Well, you don¡¯t have to worry about that anymore. You won¡¯t be able to escape from me after all. Kukuku¡­¡­¡± With a sickening grin, Diaroze fondly wraps her hands around his cheeks. She then proceeded to gently rub them. ¡°I wouldn¡¯t want you to go hungry so eat this. That¡¯s my order as your master.¡± ¡°Master huh¡­¡­.I understand.¡± He indeed has no right to protest here. Kisei went to the bathroom and washed his hands in the washbasin. Behind him, Diaroze followed like a stalker. As he returned and took his seat, Diaroze sat down face-to-face with him. ¡°¡­¡­Umm, I think I can¡¯t finish all this alone so, would you mind helping me?¡± ¡°Hmph, you are a light eater huh. Can¡¯t be helped then.¡± Diaroze happily agreed while Kisei had an awkward expression on his face. However, he didn¡¯t say anything and started eating the sushi. As he expected, the ingredients seem to be organic and they are all very delicious. Their tastes are incomparable to the synthetic products he usually eats. However, his psychological state doesn¡¯t allow him to fully enjoy them. ¡°How¡¯s the taste. You like them?¡± ¡°Yeah, sure.¡± ¡°Glad to hear that. Kukuku¡­¡­¡± Diaroze, who stared at him as he ate, seemed to be really enjoying herself. She expresses her joy not only through her expression but her whole body. It wouldn¡¯t be strange if she suddenly starts singing. While being confused by this strange atmosphere, Kisei slowly eats the sushi. ¡°¡­¡­.¡± On the other hand, Diaroze was eating at more than double the speed he was eating. Still, her eyes remain locked on Kisei. Because of that, he can¡¯t help but get uncomfortable. ¡°¡­¡­does it taste that good?¡± ¡°Umu. Even though the taste is the same as usual, it¡¯s strangely delicious today. Umu, Umu, maybe it¡¯s because you are here.¡± ¡°Oh, I see.¡± While thinking what a weird person she is, Kisei resigned himself. CH 117 The Unnecessary Consideration After the meal, Diaroze did not leave the room. She remains seated in her chair and stares at Kisei in a good mood. Although that certainly was creepy, it doesn¡¯t look like she¡¯s planning to assault him. ¡°¡­¡­..¡± Kisei wanted to ask her what she¡¯s planning to do with him but since he doesn¡¯t want to find himself in any unnecessary trouble, he decides to read a book. Surprisingly, the books here were written in Japanese. It seems that Diaroze has gone through extensive preparation to receive him. Thinking so, Kisei picked up a striker-related magazine and flipped through it on the bed. ¡°¡­¡­¡­..¡± However, his mental state doesn¡¯t allow him to concentrate on the magazine. When he sneaked a glance at Diaroze, she was looking at him with rough breathing and a flushed face. She looked like a beast waiting for its meal and he couldn¡¯t help but feel wary of her. ¡°U, Uhh.¡± ¡°Wh, What!?¡± In response to Kisei¡¯s voice, Diaroze shot up from her chair like a spring toy. Kisei¡¯s body started to shake but using his courage, he continued. ¡°Do you want to play a game? I don¡¯t have anything to do after all.¡± Since if he left her like this, it felt like she could jump on him any moment, Kisei decided to find something to pass time and calm her down. Fortunately, there are plenty of options to pass time in this room. ¡°Fumu, Fumufumfumu. So you don¡¯t want to bore me huh. Aren¡¯t you quite considerate?¡± As expected, Kisei couldn¡¯t just say [No, that¡¯s not it] to her. On the other hand, Diaroze head to the shelf in the corner of the room and took out a set of a board and a box. ¡°Since you are a Japanese Terran, you should be able to play Shogi (Japanese Chess) right?¡± Saying so, she put them down on the table. Looking at it, they are certainly the shogi set that Kisei is familiar with. Since for Vuld, chess is one of the most popular Terran board games, Kisei was surprised that she took out a shogi set. ¡°Yes, well, I know how the pieces move.¡± While giving her a nod, Kisei sits down across from Diaroze who happily opens the box and begins to set up the board for them with the pieces inside. ¡°Please go easy on me. To be honest, I¡¯m not that good with this.¡± ¡°Hmph, I wonder about that. Personally, I don¡¯t think that it would be necessary for me to hold back against someone who has already beaten me on the real battlefield though.¡± Diaroze replied with a cheerful smile but Kisei did not feel like she¡¯s being humble at all. ¡ª¡ª¡ª¡ª¡ª ¡°Umu¡­..to think that you still lost even with the Eight Piece Handicap¡­¡­¡± (TLN: There are a lot of handicaps in Shogi from one to ten piece handicap in which one side do not use some of their pieces) Diaroze moans while looking at the board. This was already their tenth game and Diaroze has been giving Kisei more and more handicaps for each match like using only her soldiers, gold generals, and kings. Even so, Kisei always ends up with a complete defeat. The difference in their skills is too big. Naturally, the current score is 0-10 with Kisei¡¯s losing streak. ¡°I, I mean, no matter how weak I am¡­¡­aren¡¯t you too strong?¡± Kisei groaned with his arms folded. Of course, since Kisei is an amateur, he never thought that he would be able to beat a veteran general like Diaroze. However, he didn¡¯t expect to lose this badly even after she gave him such a severe handicap. ¡°Y, You think so? Kufufufu, well, I have never lost in shogi or chess after all.¡± Diaroze sticks out her plump chest and proudly smiles. Seeing that, Kisei can¡¯t help but smile as well. Seeing her like this, she is pretty cute. If not for their circumstances, they might even be friends. At the very least, the rumors he heard about her being a ruthless and sadist general were completely dispelled. ¡°But it must be boring for you to play a one-sided game like this right? Sorry about this.¡± ¡°What, don¡¯t worry about it. In the first place, I usually don¡¯t have time to play shogi like this. This is pretty fun for me you know.¡± Looking like she¡¯s truly having fun, Diaroze shook her head sideways. As the next Empress, she doesn¡¯t have many chances where she can spread her wings freely. Just seeing Kisei groaning while moving his pieces was already fun enough for her. ¡°¡­.now then, I guess it¡¯s time huh.¡± Suddenly, Diaroze checked the time with her pocket watch. She then stands up with a big smile and puts her hand on Kisei¡¯s shoulder. ¡°Alright, let us proceed to the main course.¡± ¡°Eh.¡± As she said that, Diaroze swiftly circled behind Kisei and lifted him up in a princess carry. ¡°Wh, What is it all of a sudden!?¡± Kisei can guess what she¡¯s intending to do from her action alone. After all, he can see the flame of lust behind Diaroze¡¯s eyes. That being said, he doesn¡¯t understand why she decided to do it now. ¡°Weren¡¯t we playing shogi normally together until just now!? Normally, if a person planned to assault me, they would have done it from the start you know!¡± ¡°It would be bad for your body if you move around too much after the meal right! That¡¯s why I have been patiently waiting for this moment!¡± ¡°If you are that considerate of a person then please considerate about something else! Specifically speaking, can¡¯t you please be considerate about my human rights!!¡± Kisei complained and thrashed around but unfortunately, Diaroze¡¯s has a perfect hold on him. Just like that, Diaroze carried Kisei out of the room while humming to herself. CH 118 The Offering 1 ¡°Since Terrans are fragile, being too forceful might make him die from the shock huh¡­¡­.¡± Diaroze pondered to herself while looking at the various whips lined up on the shelves. She found out from preliminary research that an average Terran is physically weaker than a Vuld. That¡¯s why she doesn¡¯t even consider hitting him with her usual electromagnetic whip. ¡°That man is already mine so I can¡¯t afford to lose him after all.¡± The whip she finally picked up was a long vinyl-like one. Although it can make a loud noise, it almost has no killing power. Nodding to herself several times, Diaroze left the shelf and looked toward Kisei. ¡°Let me go! Let me go!¡± Still in the obscene clothes with high exposure, Kisei screamed and struggled as his four limbs were tied up on top of a bed. However, his limbs are tightly restrained and he couldn¡¯t shake it off no matter how hard he thrash around. The two were now inside the interrogation room onboard the [Odelvansen]. This room where various interrogation tools were lined up, is covered in a strange heat. ¡°Kukuku, sorry for the wait.¡± ¡°I didn¡¯t wait at all okay! Like at all! Rather! It¡¯s you who should wait a minute here!¡± Without listening to his plea, Diaroze operated the terminal on her bosom. The bed lifted up with the sound of a rotating motor and stood upright. Naturally, Kisei who was restrained on it is now looking like he¡¯s being crucified. ¡°Nnn, nice view don¡¯t you think?¡± Seeing him like that, Diaroze showed a small smile and licked her lips. She then purposely walks toward him while making her footsteps audible and licks his neck which is drenched in a cold sweat with her bright red tongue. ¡°WWHOaH! You Pervert!¡± ¡°Kufu, Kukukukuku¡­¡­! That¡¯s right, I am a pervert! But it¡¯s your fault you know. I am this pent up because you were too excellent on the battlefield after all.¡± ¡°How¡¯s that my fault! U, Uwahhh!¡± As though she has no intention to answer his question, Diaroze traces his body using her tongue. His arms, navel, nape, cheeks¡­¡­.truly the choices of a pervert. While feeling the strange sensation of having his whole body licked, Kisei screams. ¡°You pervert disgusting beast!¡± His words should warrant Diaroze beheading him under normal circumstances but instead, it seems like she¡¯s enchanted by it and accepts his insults. Her eyes are completely euphoric and hot breaths are leaking through her teeth. ¡°Haa, Haa¡­¡­that¡¯s right, more¡­¡­!¡± With a burning flame of lust, Diaroze approached Kisei. However, the door to the interrogation room was suddenly opened. ¡°Aneue, did you ca¡ª¡ªWha!!?¡± It was Valentina who entered the room. When she swept her eyes around the room and spotted Kisei being tied up and her sister indulging in a perverted act, her body immediately stiffened. ¡°Oh! I forgot about you. I did call for you huh!¡± Panicking a little, Diaroze took out the terminal and operated it again. Then a thick glass wall came down in the middle of the room and the door locked behind Valentina. ¡°Aneue! So you are going to do it after all? Please know some shame!¡± Guessing the situation, Valentina¡¯s face turned bright red, and tried to protest but it was too late. She and Kisei are now separated by a glass wall. Valentina gazes at Kisei with a worried expression but of course, the thick bulletproof glass can not be easily broken. ¡°I told you before, right? If I get my hand on him, I will give you a special seat. I thought that I should keep my promise you see.¡± Diaroze said that as she ignored Valentina¡¯s protest. Recalling her sister¡¯s words, Valentina narrowed her eyes and glares at Diaroze. ¡°Ahh, don¡¯t worry. I will at least let you lick him after I¡¯m done. I wouldn¡¯t let you go all the way with him though.¡± ¡®This man is mine after all¡¯, Diaroze followed with that and turned toward Kisei. ¡°Now we have everyone. Very well, ¡­..let¡¯s get started shall we.¡± Saying so, Diaroze pressed her lips against Kisei¡¯s. A passionate kiss where saliva was exchanged. Diarise¡¯s tongue invaded his mouth and Kisei¡¯s eye turned to a dot in surprise. On the other hand, Valentina violently slammed the glass wall and swore at Diaroze. ¡°How was it, my first kiss. Was it sweet?¡± ¡°How would I know¡­¡­..Ugh!¡± Kisei tried to glare at Diaroze but he was suddenly assaulted by a strange feeling and choked on his words. His body turned strangely hot and for some reason, the pain he felt from the restraint that tied him to the bed is turning into pleasure. Feeling like his heart is burning, Kisei¡¯s breath begins to get rough. ¡°Th, Thi is¡­¡­¡± ¡°It¡¯s aphrodisiac! Vuld¡¯s saliva contains an aphrodisiac component! Keep it together!¡± Valentina shouted with a bitter expression. That¡¯s right, the saliva of female vuld all contain a component that will unquestionably excite the opposite sex. It¡¯s something that¡¯s used to forcefully make the male Vuld that has weak libido get in the mood. Naturally, it is effective on a Terran male as well. ¡°Even if you say that¡­..¡± Kisei¡¯s mind is a mess. His thoughts turned hazy from the aphrodisiac. Even if Valentina is telling him to keep it together, he doesn¡¯t know how to resist. ¡°Kukuku, that¡¯s a nice face you are making there. How cute¡­¡­.¡± Diaroze smiled as she tapped her cheek with the whip in her hand. Even without being affected by the aphrodisiac, her expression was even more estrus than Kisei¡¯s. CH 119 The Offering 2 With the sound of something cutting through the air, Diaroze¡¯s whip assaults Kisei. Hearing that loud snapping sound, Valentina¡¯s body trembles. ¡°Ah, that hurt!!¡± Contrary to his expectations, the pain wasn¡¯t so bad but Kisei still involuntarily screamed. The location where he was struck by the whip is tingling but he felt strangely comfortable with it due to the aphrodisiac. ¡°I, I don¡¯t have that kind of hobby you know¡­..¡± ¡°It¡¯s okay, you will enjoy it soon.¡± Her answer was merciless and her whip ruthlessly keeps assaulting Kisei. Each time her whip struck, it was accompanied by Kisei¡¯s scream. ¡°Umu¡­..?¡± After about 10 lashes, Diaroze suddenly stopped her hand. She looked so excited before but now her expression seems calm for some reason. ¡°How strange¡­¡­this doesn¡¯t feel right.¡± Confused about it herself, Diroze struck Kisei with her whip again. Even though Kisei let out a scream that should excite any self-proclaimed sadist, she strangely doesn¡¯t seem all that excited. She involuntarily halted and tampered with her whip. ¡°Maybe spanking doesn¡¯t suit him huh¡­¡­¡± Throwing away her whip, Diaroze groaned to herself. She thought that she might feel something if she kept doing it but it didn¡¯t do it for her at all. She wants to abuse him until he gives in to her. Thinking to herself for a moment, Diaroze arrived at a conclusion. If hitting him doesn¡¯t do it for her, perhaps insulting him would. With her whip abandoned, she brings her face close to the sweaty Kisei. ¡°Come to think of it, I¡¯ve heard rumors about Terran before. It seems that for Terrans, it is normal for a man to court a woman right?¡± Diaroze asked in a mocking tone. Of course, she is quite a Terran enthusiast herself so she knows about the current gender equality on Earth. She only asked that as a part of her play. ¡°Considering that¡¯s the normal thing for you, how do you feel about your situation now? Don¡¯t you think it¡¯s shameful to be toyed with by a woman? Hmm?¡± Diaroze says that while tapping Kisei¡¯s cheek. In response, Kisei groaned with his cheeks bright red. ¡°Kuku, I can¡¯t tell what you¡¯re saying you know. Mind saying it louder?¡± With a grin, Diaroze pecked Kisei¡¯s lips. She then continues by licking the sweat off his nape. ¡°I never thought that my own sister is such a shameless and cruel woman! Know some shame!!¡± As though she was disappointed in her sister, Valentina raised her voice. On the other hand, Diaroze pretended to not hear her and muted the microphone on Valentina¡¯s side using her terminal. Now, no matter what she says, they won¡¯t be able to hear it. ¡°Hmm, still, what a sorry sight you are in. To be one-sidedly abused by a woman. I wonder if your pride as a man has already turned to pieces by now?¡± ¡°If, If it¡¯s on the battlefield then I can effortlessly mess you up though!!¡± With Diaroze doing whatever she wants, Kisei snapped and talked back while staring straight into her eyes. ¡°Mess me up huh, Ku, Kuku¡­¡­..that might be true. But you still want to mess up a woman in bed too right.¡± With a lustrous smile, Diaroze taunts Kisei by gently tracing his midriff with her fingertips and licking off his sweat. ¡°Just like how you are now, you want to tie me up¡­¡­¡­you want to one-sidedly dominate me don¡¯t you!¡± Even Diaroze doesn¡¯t know whether her words were meant for Kisei or herself. However, there¡¯s certainly a feeling of pleasure that runs through her spine right now. ¡°Seriously, what a pervert.¡± Kisei was about to retort that the only pervert here is her but he stopped himself when he noticed Diaroze¡¯s strange action. While looking at the terminal she pulled out from her bosom, she continues to excitedly mumble to herself. ¡°I, I am the next empress you know? To be pushed down by a man, how much of humiliation would that be¡­¡­.!¡± Diaroze seemed to be getting more and more excited by her own words. Sweats trail down her bright red face as she stares alternately between her terminal and Kisei. Then, she pressed the release button on her terminal.¡± ¡°Ah.¡± Diaroze let out a voice in surprise. Perhaps she did that unconsciously. However, when she sees the now untied Kisei rushing at her with all his might, her expression immediately turns to one of joy. ¡°Ahh¡­¡­¡± When Kisei rushed in to tackle her with all his power, Diaroze opened her arms and accept him. The difference between their weight and physical strength was clear. Of course, Diaroze shouldn¡¯t even budge. However, she fell backward and allowed herself to get pinned down on purpose. With a blissful smile, she stares up at Kisei who is now mounting her. ¡°Got it!¡± However, Kisei¡¯s aim was, of course, not Diaroze¡¯s body. Instead, he swiped the terminal in her hand and operated it. On the other hand, still excited, Diaroze couldn¡¯t resist him. ¡°Ah¡­..¡± The glass walls that separated the rooms were retracted and Kisei immediately jumped off her body. Diaroze saw him jump off with a regretful look and regained her composure. ¡°Good job!¡± However, Valentina immediately performed a flying kick on her and blew her away. ¡°Gueh!¡± When Diaroze was sent flying to the wall with a muffled scream, Valentina followed up with a straight punch to her abdomen, knocking her out. ¡°I, I don¡¯t know what¡¯s going on but I¡¯m saved¡­¡­¡± With a bright red face, Kisei let out a sigh of relief. ¡°Thank goodness my sister is a pervert¡­¡­. My Love, use this.¡± Valentina handed him a pistol-shaped syringe. The type that injects a drug solution using osmotic pressure. ¡°It¡¯s an antidote. I expected my sister to try that so I prepared it beforehand.¡± ¡°Ahh, thanks. Seriously, that was terrible.¡± Kisei nodded to her and injected his arm with the syringe and pulled the trigger. The heat that was eroding his body gradually recedes after the drug entered his system. ¡°Alright, let¡¯s get away from here.¡± Saying so, Valentina takes off her military uniform jacket and gives it to Kisei. Since he was whipped while still wearing his clothes, his appearance right now is very suggestive. He wouldn¡¯t be able to walk outside looking like this. ¡°No matter how shameful or idiotic she was, I still performed a violent act against my superior. Even I won¡¯t be able to get away with no consequence. We should get out of here before things get troublesome.¡± ¡°Th, that¡¯s true¡­..sorry. I got you involved.¡± ¡°Hm, don¡¯t worry about it. If they tried defiling My Love then even if it¡¯s my elder sister or the Empress herself, I will fight for you.¡± Said Valentina with a soft smile. CH 120 I (Sessha) Have Arrived! TLN: Pronoun referring to self, often uses by Samurai. Kisei and Valentina run through the corridor of the [Odelvansen] with panicking Noredian MPs chasing them. ¡°Please stop! Your Highness!¡± The MPs shouted so as they ran after them with a carbine in their hands. The interrogation room was located at the innermost part of the ship and the news that Valentina knocked out Diaroze quickly spread. With that being the case, Valentina who is now a fugitive has no choice but to run. After all, she could be sentenced to death if she doesn¡¯t. ¡°Haa, Haa, Ugh¡­¡­¡± However, even though they are in such a situation, Kisei¡¯s poor physical strength is slowing them down. While running barefoot, he is holding his mouth with a deep blue face. ¡°Muh¡­¡­sorry!¡± Valentina hurriedly picks up Kisei and princess-carries him. Kisei is certainly thankful for her help since he¡¯s already at his limit but it¡¯s still quite embarrassing. ¡°U, Ugh¡­¡­.I¡¯m sorry too.¡± ¡°What, this is nothing for a lady!¡± The term ¡®Lady¡¯ Kisei is familiar does not refer to a woman who can run at full speed while carrying a man but this is in Vuld context. Moreover, Valentina wasn¡¯t just putting up a strong face as her running speed didn¡¯t drop at all even with him in her arms. ¡°D, Damn it¡­..how envio¡ª¡­¡­.how shameful! Captain, permission to open fire!¡± ¡°You idiot! If you injure that man you will be executed by Diaroze-sama you know!¡± Diaroze¡¯s fondness of Kisei was well-known in the army. After all, she gave up her own room for his accommodation even though he¡¯s their POW. Naturally, with her being the highest-ranking commanding officer of this expedition, her room is of the highest quality. She gave that room to Kisei and instead moved to a guest room herself. ¡°Use the taser! If it¡¯s just a minor electric shock then she might let us off.¡± ¡°Roger that!¡± The MPs pulled out a pistol-like device from the holster on her waist. It¡¯s a non-lethal weapon used for suppressing mobs. The MP proceeded to point it at Valentina with trained movement but suddenly, she was attacked from the side. ¡°Hmph!¡± ¡°Uwah!¡± A tall beauty with swaying crimson ponytails smacked the taser away using a wooden sword. The MP couldn¡¯t respond to the unexpected attack and raised a scream. ¡°Tersis-dono! You came!¡± Valentina screamed in joy. That¡¯s right, the intruder was the one called the Heavenly Blade, Tersis van Melemheim. Noticing the identity of the attacker, the MPs stiffened. ¡°T, Tersis-sama! Valentina-sama is being accused of treason. Please do not get in our way!¡± ¡°I don¡¯t need to justify myself!¡± The captain protested but Tersis¡¯s response was merciless. She lunged at the MPs and quickly take them down using her wooden sword. Naturally, the MPs were trained in interpersonal combat but when it comes to swordsmanship, they can¡¯t possibly put up a decent fight against the Nored Empire¡¯s most prestigious swordswoman. ¡°Tersis? Ah, that striker with only sword and shield.¡± ¡°OOH, so you remember me!?¡± Tersis¡¯s expression slackened as she walked up toward Valentina with her wooden sword resting on her shoulder. ¡°I heard that the cunning fox was about to lay her hand on you so I was on my way to help but it seems that I was too late¡­¡­.I¡¯m sincerely sorry.¡± Hearing that, the common soldiers around them who were observing the situation started to get noisy. Tersis is considered a hero of the Imperial Army. There¡¯s no one that would doubt the words that come out of her mouth. ¡°H, Her Highness Diaroze¡­¡­.forcing herself on someone like that¡­¡­¡± ¡°I thought that this would happen someday but to think that she would lay her hand on such a cute man!!¡± Hearing the common soldiers start saying whatever they wanted, Kisei shook his head sideways with a bitter expression. ¡°No, well¡­¡­.since I am a prisoner, I never thought help would come. Thank you, you two.¡± ¡°I¡¯ve only done what is expected of me as a knight¡­¡­now, let¡¯s go, Your Highness Valentina. I have the strikers ready for us at the hangar.¡± ¡°You are well-prepared huh. Are we going to escape in a striker after this?¡± ¡°No, we are going to use my fleet. I¡¯ve already told my subordinates about the situation so you don¡¯t have to worry.¡± ¡°Y, You are taking out an entire fleet!? Isn¡¯t that too much¡­¡­.¡± He thought that she helped him impulsively but her plan was so meticulous that he can¡¯t help but think that she has been planning this for a long time. ¡°Hahaha, don¡¯t worry about it. The small details shouldn¡¯t matter right.¡± ¡°Y, Ye¡ªah¡­¡­¡± Since he¡¯s being saved right now, he has no right to complain. ¡°Anyway, our first priority is to get away from here. If we can get outside then the [Prussia] will be able to support us.¡± ¡°The [Prussia], that super fast battleship¡­¡­.¡± The first Noredian force that Kisei fought against was the fleet under Valentina¡¯s command. He still remembers the large battleship she took command from back then. ¡°Being helped by the ship I just fought recently huh¡­¡­¡­.I guess it¡¯s some kind of fate.¡± As a mercenary, friends and foes can easily switch places, a situation like this does not occur so often. Thinking that fate is playing pranks on him, Kisei involuntarily sighed. CH 121 Don¡¯t Just Rescue Someone to Start a Coup! According to plan, the three seized strikers from the [Odelvansen]¡¯s hangar and escaped the ship. However, even with its commander out cold, the Noredian army is not so amateurish as to let them go easily. Immediately after they left the ship, a unit was sortied to intercept and chase them down. ¡°Uwah, that¡¯s a lot.¡± Kisei¡¯s face cramped up as he sat on Valentina¡¯s lap. He actually wanted to fly himself but Valentina stopped him. He was told that he should get some rest since he was just subjected to Diaroze¡¯s assault. ¡°Still,¡­.we are at sea huh. This place must be quite far away from the mountain where I got caught right¡­..?¡± Kisei muttered as he gazed at the countless Noredian ships floating on the deep blue ocean. It appeared that the Noredian fleet took position on the open sea since he can¡¯t see any land around them at all. This means that they have nowhere to hide. Seeing the strikers launching one after another from the countless ships, he feels anxious about whether they can truly escape. ¡°Will we be okay? Won¡¯t they shoot us down?¡± Of course, Kisei is not doubting Valentina¡¯s skill as a pilot but he still felt that it would be faster if he pilot the striker himself. After all, Valentina and Tersis are not piloting their usual personal strikers. Instead, they are currently flying inside the mass-produced [Jetta]s. Against a large army like this, a mass-produced model has little chance to survive. With a small groan, Kisei reached for the control stick. However, Valentina gently stopped him with her hand. ¡°It¡¯s okay, I want you to believe in me.¡± ¡°Is, is that so?¡± ¡°Yes, trust me.¡± Saying so, Valentina gently blew into Kisei¡¯s ear. Although he used the antidote, since the effect of the aphrodisiac still hasn¡¯t completely disappeared he let out a rather cute scream. ¡°¡­¡­¡­Valentina-dono. If you are going to commit such an unscrupulous act as well then I might consider you my enemy you know?¡± Through the radio came Tersis¡¯s chilling voice. In response to her killing intent, Valentina lightly whistles. ¡°Well, sorry about that. I will be more careful.¡± With a grin, she yanked back the control stick and avoided the beams that were fired at them. The G from the acceleration pressed Kisei¡¯s back against the protruding portion of Valentina¡¯s body. There¡¯s nothing more uncomfortable than this for Kisei. ¡°U, Uweh¡­¡­even though it¡¯s already the third time, this is still¡­¡­¡± ¡°Third time? ¡­¡­¡­.Ahh, I see, it must be that pimp princess. Come to think of it, you were together in a cockpit with her right. Haha, I guess I am in the lead now.¡± ¡°You are competing in the most nonsensical thing you know.¡± ¡°Fufu, well, don¡¯t say that.¡± With a bitter smile, Valentina continued their escape while suppressing the pursuit with her rifle. The warships around them activated their AA-guns but they are only using them to cut off their escape route for fear of friendly fire. On the other hand, the strikers that get too close would be cut down by Tersis¡¯s sword. There¡¯s no doubt that she belongs to the strongest class of pilots. ¡°As I thought, she¡¯s good.¡± Kisei was impressed. Then, a [Vil[ approached their group. It is supposed to be a heavy-duty model with heavy armament but it is only armed with a large pistol¡­¡­..a blaster magnum. ¡°Oh, that¡¯s¡­¡­.¡± That¡¯s definitely Nora, one of the 4 Heavenlys. Remembering that she¡¯s quite hostile to him, Kisei put up his guard. ¡°Can you hear me? It seems that our force has taken the communication cruiser [DESU].¡± However, the voice that came through the radio was of a friendly tone. Apparently, Nora is also a part of this escape plan as well. ¡°Oh, finally huh. Now we can go on an offensive.¡± Valentina said that with a villainous smile on her face but Nora ignored her and continued. ¡°So¡­¡­.I assume that the target is safe [DESUYONE]?¡± ¡°I¡¯m alright. Thanks. I never thought that you of all people would come to help me.¡± Kisei understood that she bore a grudge against him so he thanked her with a bitter smile on his face. ¡°If YOU were messed up by that woman then I can¡¯t settle my score with you after all¡­¡­.I won¡¯t allow you to just run off after winning against me you know.¡± ¡°I see.¡± With that unexpectedly straightforward answer, Kisei smiles. He quite likes this kind of opponent. ¡°Whatever the case, My Love. Do you mind quieting down a little? I am about to call out to the entire army.¡± ¡°Calling them out? Ahh, she said something about taking over a communication cruiser just now right. Are you planning to hijack their communication?¡± ¡°Something like that.¡± Valentina nodded and gently stroked Kisei¡¯s hair. She then operates the console panel that links her striker to the communication cruiser. [[Link Established]] ¡°Alright, we¡¯re good.¡± After typing in some kind of code into the panel, the striker¡¯s AI announced with an inorganic voice. ¡°Can you hear me, soldiers of the Imperial Army? This is Valentina Tous Argarine speaking. First, I¡¯d like to apologize for the commotion I have caused.¡± Valentina began to speak in a clear voice as though she¡¯s trying to make a speech. He doesn¡¯t know what she is planning to do but Kisei stays silent and lets her do her thing. ¡°However, I do have a good reason for doing this. To bring my sister¡¯s, Diaroze¡¯s sin to the light, I must take a drastic measure.¡± Suddenly, the movement of the Noredian army stopped. The person who they thought was a deserter was a member of the Imperial Family. With the situation being so chaotic as it is, the army still doesn¡¯t have the full information yet. Even the striker pilots must have been sent out without being told the specifics. ¡°As repulsive as it is, my own sister tried to sexually assault one of our POWs¡­¡­.! I managed to rescue the said prisoner but this is still obviously a criminal act!¡± That dignified voice spread chaos among the Noredian soldiers. However, with Diaroze¡¯s reputation already being driven to the dirt, most of their response was [Oh, so she ended up doing it after all¡­¡­]. ¡°Not only that, my sister even used the army resources to get her hands on a young man! Look!¡± Saying so, she sent a video file to each ship in the fleet through the data link system. If she simply wanted to make a speech then she can just use the public communication channel. It was to this end that she took control of a communication cruiser. ¡°T, This is¡­..¡± ¡°Is this supposed to be our next empress¡­¡­?¡± ¡°Uwah, he¡¯s such a beauty. I guess it couldn¡¯t be helped if she resorted to dirty means to get her hands on him huh¡­..¡± The common soldiers were confused. The video Valentina sent to the fleet was one that show Diaroze bringing Kisei onboard her personal striker after she took him hostage. It appears that there was a hidden camera inside the [Zentis]. Kisei¡¯s expression cramped up just by thinking about how much Valentina went through to prepare for this. ¡°Is such a shameless woman qualified to command this glorious Imperial Army? No! I don¡¯t think so! That¡¯s why I choose to take my stand! All those that do not recognize Diaroze as your commander, come to my side!¡± ¡®T, This woman, she rescued me to start a coup¡­..!?¡¯ Kisei turned speechless. CH 122 Don¡¯t just use someone you just recued as reward! Valentina declared the start of her coup with a determined expression. However,¡­¡­there was not much reaction from the soldiers. Some aristocrats screamed their support for her but others still remained confused. Certainly, what Diaroze did was criminal but this is a battlefield. Unfortunately, some people are perfectly fine with catching male POWs to use them to enjoy themselves. To such people, Diaroze wasn¡¯t some repulsive villain but someone enviable instead. ¡°Hmm, well,¡­..this is a little¡­..¡± Valentina got a cold sweat since the reaction she received was tamer than she expected. Of course, she didn¡¯t expect the entire fleet to side with her but this is still unexpected. ¡°Fumu, then let¡¯s do it like this.¡± There, Tersis threw her a lifeline. Since the Imperial Army has stopped their attack for the moment, she holds up her sword and points it at Valentina¡¯s [Jetta]. ¡°The individual who outstandingly assists us in this endeavor will be personally rewarded by Kisei-dono. Even a personal request is allowed.¡± ¡°Ha?¡± Hearing that, excitement immediately spread through the reluctant soldiers. With the video, everyone is now aware of how Kisei looks. To the common soldiers who do not have any chance to meet any men due to the long war, that offer was almost intoxicating. ¡°Of course, it will be within a reasonable range. You would be no different than Her Highness Diaroze if you request for his chastity after all¡­¡­¡± ¡°T, Then, I can request a lap pillow or even have him clean my ears!?¡± One of the soldiers has their expression slackened. Valentina has an awkward expression on her face as she sneaks a glance at Kisei. ¡°Ugh, W, Well, if it¡¯s just that much then¡­..¡± Of course, he doesn¡¯t want to do that with just any stranger but this is not a situation where he can voice his protest. He now became a part of Valentina¡¯s coup but it¡¯s true that the more he has more allies the better. ¡°Then I can have him pat my head while I¡¯m sleeping!?¡¯ ¡°What about a date!?¡± The common soldiers started voicing their requests after hearing Kisei¡¯s response but thanks to Tersis¡¯s firm attitude, the requests were all within an acceptable range. With that being the case, Kisei nodded. ¡°J, Just one person okay. It would be difficult to take care of so many people after all¡­¡­.¡± The Imperial Army turned silent for a while. After a few minutes of silence, a roaring sound echoed. Surprised, Kisei turned to look at the source and found that one of the battleships fired its main gun and there¡¯s a big bullet hole on the side of the [Odelvansen] which was moored nearby. ¡°Nn? That ship¡­¡­¡± Surprised by how it suddenly opened fire, Kisei groaned. He was familiar with that ship, he remembers that it was one of the ships he took down by destroying its propulsion engine. However, his thoughts were interrupted by cheering voices suddenly erupted from the Imperial Soldiers. ¡°Diaroze is a stain on the aristocratic society! I can¡¯t forgive her shameful act anymore!¡± ¡°I can¡¯t apologize to my ancestors enough for serving under such a despicable villain! I will serve Her Highness Valentina from now on!¡± The Noredian soldiers began to attack the [Odelvansen] one after another while trying to justify themselves. Not just the strikers, the surrounding ships also pointing their guns at it. No matter how much the [Odelvansen] boasts its defense, that defense won¡¯t be enough if it¡¯s under attack from all sides. It immediately floated up and fully activated its engine to escape. Seeing that, the ships that joined Valentina¡¯s side began their pursuit. ¡°Hahaha, what a nice feeling!¡± Valentina laughed while hugging Kisei. Perhaps she forgets herself, she tightly squeezed him with all her power. ¡°¡­¡­I already gave you a warning right.¡± With its gleaming trinocular camera, Tersis¡¯s striker blew its thruster and approached them while grasping the handle of its sword. Before he noticed, all of the strikers in their surroundings pointed their weapons at Valentina¡¯s striker as well. ¡°Hii¡­..¡± Valentina involuntarily squeaked and tried to make an excuse. ¡°W, Well, sorry. That was unbecoming of a lady. Forgive me.¡± ¡°Pl, please be more careful now, Your Highness.¡± Hearing Kisei¡¯s words, Tersis took her hand off her sword¡¯s handle. ¡°There will be no warning next time okay.¡± ¡°Y, Yes¡­¡­.how strange, I should be the leader of this coup right¡­¡­¡± Valentina unintentionally raised her doubt about her subordinates¡¯ attitude. ¡°By the way, Your Highness. It seems that they managed to get away¡­¡­.what are you planning to do now?¡± Asked one of the soldiers. Certainly, if they chase them now, they might be able to take down the [Odelvansen]. With Diaroze still unconscious, the command of that ship should still be pretty much chaotic. Normally, other officers or adjutants would take command but that¡¯s not the case for Diaroze¡¯s system where she has total control over the ship. ¡°We will not chase after them.¡± However, Valentina said that while shaking her head sideways. The bloodthirsty commanders are raising some protest but she still couldn¡¯t give her permission. ¡°Without the IFF working, we won¡¯t know who we are fighting against. It would be better to retreat for now rather than taking some unnecessary damage.¡± Since both sides belong to the Noredian army, their system won¡¯t be able to tell who is who. If they fight in such a situation, it will only increase unnecessary damage. The fact that the other side quickly withdrew without counterattacking was also because of that. ¡°With that being the case, we should take our time to prepare ourselves. With My Love on my lap, even I can¡¯t fight properly after all.¡± With a grin, Valentina turned her striker toward a uniquely elongated ship which boasts its speed, the [Prussia], Valentina¡¯s personal ship. CH 123 Second Assault on the Ace Red warships line up on the moonlit sea. Sail at the center of the formation is a large warship which Kisei is on. ¡°Ahh, I¡¯m so tired¡­..¡± Kisei weakly lay down on the upper deck of the [Prussia]. After being subjected to an S&M play for the first time in his life, he was immediately roped into a coup. Because of that, his body felt heavier than ever. ¡°¡­¡­¡­.¡± He¡¯s currently silently gazing at the night sky, there were not many stars to be seen perhaps due to the dust cloud from the orbital bombing but instead, the potato-like surface of the moon was shining brightly. ¡°Why do you look so glum [DESU]?¡± A girl with unique gray hair highlighted with a tint of red asked Kisei with a sarcastic smile. She¡¯s Nora, the top ace of the Nored empire, the one who holds the title of the [Heavenly Roar]. It was she who offered to escort him when he said that he wanted to get some fresh air. At the moment, Valentina and Tersis are at the strategy meeting room to discuss their future course of action. ¡°I mean, a lot happened right.¡± ¡°Ha, is that really something the strongest ace should be saying?¡± While replying to him with a provocative tone, Nora sits down next to Kisei. ¡°Well, I never expected myself to get whipped you know.¡± ¡°¡­¡­..I have been thinking that she¡¯s a huge pervert but she went and did that after all [DESUKA]¡± With a grin, Nora moves her hand as though she¡¯s trying to imitate a whipping motion. She had a teasing grin on her face but her expression immediately turned serious when she asked her next question. ¡°So, are you hurt anywhere [DESUKA]?¡± ¡°Nah. Only a few red spots left.¡± ¡°Ahh, so she did hold back [DESUNE]¡­¡­¡­.that woman. She¡¯s unexpectedly soft isn¡¯t she.¡± After being hit with a whip, a normal person shouldn¡¯t be able to move due to the pain. The fact that Kisei can move around even though it hasn¡¯t been a full day yet means that Diaroze actually went easy on him. Seeing the new side of Diaroze, someone who she only heard as a ruthless sadist, Nora shrugged with an ironic smile. On the other hand, Kisei stared at Nora in surprise. Although they have faced each other multiple times on the battlefield, this is the first time he and Nora met face to face. Comparing her expression right now to how wild she was in battle, Kisei couldn¡¯t help but feel like her wild side was a lie. ¡°Thanks for worrying about me.¡± ¡°¡­¡­!¡± To Kisei¡¯s casual expression of gratitude, Nora involuntarily frowned. After crossing her arms, she turned toward him with a dissatisfied expression. ¡°¡­..I was only concerned because it would be bad if my opponent couldn¡¯t pilot a striker well because of the injury [DESU]. My goal is to beat you in your perfect condition after all.¡± ¡°That¡¯s cool you know. After all this is over, I will gladly by your opponent.¡± ¡°Hmph¡­¡­.¡± Nora moodily stood up and grabbed Kisei¡¯s collar before forcefully pulling him up. ¡°Nnn!?¡± Kisei was caught by surprise due to the suddenness of her action. Even though she looked small, Nora is still a Vuld and a Terran like him couldn¡¯t resist her strength at all. Just like that, he was pushed into the back of one of the turrets on the [Prussia]¡¯s deck. ¡°Uwah!¡± Kisei was pushed down to the floor and Nora mounted on his body. In the faint moonlight, Nora¡¯s face was dyed red and her expression was a ferocious smile with her two fangs exposed. ¡°Then how about we do it now?¡± ¡°W, Wait a minute, this is a little unexpected¡­¡­..¡± Never thought that he would be overpowered by a girl who¡¯s even shorter than himself, Kisei was panicking with cold sweat dripping out from his pores. ¡°You were looking down on me because I¡¯m small right? Even while I¡¯m looking like this, I am quite a carnivorous person you know.¡± With a voluptuous expression, Nora brings her mouth close to Kisei¡¯s nape. She then gently and playfully pressed her fangs on his nape. A sweet pain ran through his body and Kisei let out a small scream. ¡°I can¡¯t blame Diaroze for her actions. With such a delicious prey right in front of you, how would anyone resist this.¡± Abandoning the use of her strange suffix, she whispered that into Kisei¡¯s ear. With a beast-like rough breath on his cheek, Kisei¡¯s face involuntarily stiffened. He tried to twist his body to escape but Nora¡¯s hold on him was unexpectedly strong and he was once again shocked at how he¡¯s losing against such a small girl. ¡°No way¡­¡­.¡± ¡°It¡¯s useless. You can¡¯t escape me. You can tell right?¡± Nora gently strokes his chest with her hand. While holding his twisting body down, Nora was about to steal his lips. ¡°¡­¡­..Just kidding [DESU].¡± But before she did that, she mischievously smiled and stopped. At the distance where their noses could touch each other¡¯s, Nora continued her words. ¡°You are too defenseless [DESUYO]. You shouldn¡¯t be so careless when you can¡¯t even resist someone as small as me [DESU].¡± ¡°Th, That¡¯s¡­¡­.¡± Since he was indeed being pushed down by her, Kisei can¡¯t deny her words. If Nora was really intending to assault him, she would have been able to do that with no problem. He could have tried screaming for help but she would have easily covered his mouth with her strength. ¡°You need to stay healthy until I win against you [DESU]. Be more careful in the future.¡± ¡°Yes¡­¡­.¡± Nora let out a small sigh at Kisei¡¯s reply. ¡°Hmph, it¡¯s fine as long as you understand [DESU]. Seriously,¡­¡­you are such a handful [DESU].¡± Saying so, Nora lifted her face up with a mischievous smile. And with a movement similar to her bite earlier, she pressed her lips gently against Kisei¡¯s forehead. However, she immediately switched her expression and got off him. ¡°Y, Your body is super hot!? Are you really okay?¡± ¡°Eh¡­¡­.¡± When Kisei cocked his head and looked at her with a puzzled expression, Nora hurriedly put her hand on his forehand. She felt that his body had gotten abnormally hot. It¡¯s not that his body temperature is rising due to her excitement either. ¡°Th, This is bad¡­..¡± It appears that Kisei wasn¡¯t just tired. Starting to break out into a cold sweat, Nora picked Kisei up in a panic and carried him to the sickbay. CH 124 At the Sickbay ¡°It¡¯s only the accumulated fatigue combined with a cold. There¡¯s no need to worry as there¡¯s no danger to his life.¡± An old army doctor said with her arms crossed. On the bed next to the doctor was Kisei who¡¯s sleeping there with a bright red face. ¡°He overdid it after all¡­..I guess there¡¯s no helping it. He was eluding the pursuit of our army up until a few days ago. Not to mention that he was subjected to my sister¡¯s perverted play right afterward. It¡¯s no wonder that his body is reaching its limit¡­¡­¡± With a small sigh, Valentina sat down next to the bed. She then gently strokes his hair with her hand. Seeing that, Nora grabbed her hand with a moody expression. The two glared at each other for a while until Tersis cleared her throat and admonished them. ¡°Stop that, you two. It¡¯s unsuitable for a knight to be fighting in front of a sick person.¡± ¡°Excuse my rudeness.¡± Valentina withdrew her hand and fixed her expression. On the other hand, Nora sat down on the opposite side of the bed with a pout and turned the other way. ¡°In any case, it¡¯s certain that My Love is fine, correct?¡± Valentina asked the army doctor again. She was very anxious when she heard that Kisei has a high fever. Yes, Diaroze did not do anything serious to him but it¡¯s still impossible for her not to worry since he¡¯s a physically weak Terran. ¡°Yes, that is certain. This [Prussia] is designed to serve as a royal vessel so our medical facility is equal to a specialized hospital ship. We would never miss any serious injury or illness here, Your Highness.¡± ¡°Fumu¡­¡­¡± Valentina acknowledged and rubbed her chin. ¡°I want to see the examination data later. You must have done a full-scale examination on him already right?¡± ¡°Eh? Yes¡­¡­.¡± Knowing that Kisei is Valentina¡¯s favorite, the doctor certainly performed a rigorous examination on him even though it¡¯s unnecessary. There should be no mistake in her diagnosis. With the technology they have, such a full-scale examination doesn¡¯t take a heavy toll on the patient. That being the case, it¡¯s still strange why Valentina wants to see such data. Even with a small doubt that Valentina might be a rare type of pervert that will get excited at the medical data of the man she likes, the doctor could not deny her superior¡¯s request. ¡°Understood. I will summarize the data and send it to you later.¡± ¡°Ahh, thanks.¡± Valentina nodded. Seeing that, Tersis shrugged. ¡°Still, we are in a bind aren¡¯t we, Valentina-sama. We can¡¯t avoid the fight against them¡­¡­.against Diaroze¡¯s side. With him on our side, I was hoping that I can fight alongside him though.¡± ¡°The people who joined the coup were about half of the total army. If we fight head-on, there will surely be a lot of casualties [DESUNE].¡± Nora added. Of the 4 Heavenlys, only Nora and Tersis joined the coup. With Liren, Eleanor, and Diaroze on the other side, they have no advantage in terms of personnel. Rather, it can be said that Diaroze¡¯s side has the advantage because Diaroze¡¯s [Zentis] is still in perfect condition while the personal strikers of the 4 Heavenlys and Valentina were all incapacitated. ¡°I have a plan for that. After all, I didn¡¯t plan to use My Love¡¯s combat prowess in this coup from the start.¡± ¡°Hou.¡± Tersis showed a small impressed smile. However, this is obvious for Valentina. After calling out Schleer for letting a man do all the fighting for her, she can¡¯t possibly afford to do the exact same thing here. ¡°First, we will return My Love to the Calencian for the time being. We will tell them that [We rescued him from Diaroze¡¯s perverted play]¡­¡­.that way, they shouldn¡¯t be able to attack us.¡± ¡°Ha, so we are going to join hands with the enemy [DESUKA]. We finally started to act like a rebel army huh.¡± ¡°We don¡¯t gain anything from fighting with the Calencian now. I have no plan to start a three-way battle. Aneue¡­¡­¡­no, Diaroze is our common enemy. That¡¯s why it¡¯s obvious to cooperate with them right?¡± ¡°That certainly makes sense but if I have to be honest¡­¡­..you sisters certainly think alike.¡± Tersis said that with a dissatisfied expression but she also has no other idea to offer. After all, they can¡¯t afford to lose this. With that being the case, Tersis understood that joining hands with the enemy is unavoidable. ¡°Well, I don¡¯t really care about it [DESUYO]. Enemy or ally, there¡¯s no difference to me after all.¡± Saying so, Nora swings her legs on top of her chair. Then, she turned her head and glanced at Kisei¡¯s face. Seeing him sweating, she let out a small sigh and wiped it with her handkerchief. ¡°Anyway, we need to quickly finish this [DESU]. If it¡¯s going to be such a hard fight, he will surely try to sortie even if he¡¯s sick.¡± The incident in which Kisei hit the Noredian headquarters with only 2 strikers is still fresh in their memory. From that, Nora clearly understood that Kisei is the type of person that would do whatever he needed to be done. ¡°Certainly, that sounds likely¡­¡­seriously, what a worrisome man.¡± When Valentina unintentionally smiled at that, an alarm suddenly rang out and she tightened her expression. [[Calencian Fleet Spotted. All hands to battle station.]] ¡°Speak of the devil huh. Well, let¡¯s be grateful that we can get this done quickly.¡± CH 125 Alliance between Bitter Enemies 1 ¡°Noredian strikers with a white flag are coming toward us!?¡± Schleer who was about to board her striker was confused by the report. ¡°I can¡¯t see why they would surrender to us. What are they trying to pull here¡­¡­¡± ¡°Maybe they are here to tell us off because we are breaking the ceasefire agreement? We approached their fleet in combat formation after all.¡± Saki said with a tired expression. It has been a while since Kisei was taken. Both of them had days where they couldn¡¯t even sleep due to anxiety and guilt. Even now, they have organized their army to launch an attack on the Noredian to get him back. ¡°Ha, that ceasefire was arbitrarily decided by them. I don¡¯t have any obligation to follow through with it.¡± Schleer said with an extremely irritable tone. She has been like this since she returned to the [Radiant] with Saki. She stays in her combat mode day and night. This is inevitable considering that she is trying to rescue someone from the poisonous fangs of a pervert. ¡°¡­¡­so, what do you want us to do? You wouldn¡¯t order us to shoot them down right?¡± ¡°They raised the white flag, correct? It means they want to fight to the death. Shooting them down shouldn¡¯t be a problem right?¡± ¡°That ain¡¯t what it means for our race. For Vuld, a white flag signifies truce, doesn¡¯t it.¡± Saki harshly replied. ¡°Tsk¡­..it can¡¯t be helped then. Just guide them to the landing deck for the time being. I will decide what to do with them after hearing what they say.¡± It ends up like that in the end. Accompanied by Saki, Schleer heads to the landing deck. After a while, three [Jettas] carrying a striker-sized white flag entered the deck. It appears that they have taken out all of their weapons beforehand as well. Following the instruction, the [Jettas] moves to the edge of the deck. Once they all took a debark position, their cockpits opened. When Schleer spotted the person leaving the cockpit, her eyebrows immediately furrowed. ¡°Pervert stalker woman¡­¡­..!¡± Schleer grit her teeth at how Valentina whose striker was blown in half by her [Mistilteinn] is doing better than she expected. She didn¡¯t think that she was dead because she didn¡®t aim for the cockpit¡­..still, it¡¯s irritating to see how strong her luck is for not being injured at all. ¡°Hey, been a while hasn¡¯t it. Pimp Princess¡­¡­also, Samurai-kun too. I¡¯ve been in your care the other day.¡± Valentina walked up to Schleer with a frivolous smile and spoke to her in a familiar tone. Behind her were Nora and Tersis. At the same time, the MPs are training their guns on each of them. If Valentina and her subordinates show even a small sigh of suspicious movement they are ready to open fire at any time. ¡°What are you planning? Raising a white flag and boarding our ship like this¡­¡­.¡± ¡°My Love¡­¡­..Hokuto Kisei is now under my protection. I just thought that I should come here to tell you that.¡± ¡°What!?¡± Schleer groaned with a severe expression. From the look on her face, she¡¯s still blaming the Noredian for taking him away in the first place. ¡°I detached myself from my sister. After using underhand means to take him hostage, she tried to use him to fulfill her perverted desire¡­¡­..seriously, her action still horrifies me. I couldn¡¯t go along with it any further you see.¡± ¡°¡­¡­¡­.¡± Hearing Valentina, Schleer folded her arms and frowned. She has no way to verify what she said. It¡¯s true that Valentina¡¯s goal is different from Diaroze¡¯s but it¡¯s still impossible to just trust her words. ¡°Then¡­¡­..Kisei-san is safe, is that correct?¡± ¡°I¡¯m hiding him in a safe place¡­¡­.but.¡± ¡°B, But?¡± To that ominous follow-up, Schleer rushed toward Valentina. ¡°We managed to avoid the worst but¡­¡­he¡¯s still unconscious. If I was a little bit earlier then¡­..Kuh.¡± Nora who was standing behind her has a surprised expression on her face. It¡¯s true that Kisei is unconscious right now but that¡¯s just due to a cold. Clearly, Valentina is trying to fuel the Calencian to take revenge on Diaroze. However, before Nora said anything unnecessary, Saki¡¯s hand had already reached for Valentina¡¯s collar. ¡°Oi, what¡¯s going on! He¡¯s safe right!¡± ¡°W, Wait a minute! Let me go!¡± Valentina was taken by surprise and asked Tersis to help her with her eyes but she only turned away with a wry smile. After all, she brought it upon herself. ¡°H, He¡¯s fine! He¡¯s being cared for onboard my ship! There¡¯s no danger to his life and no lasting damage either!¡± ¡°Shut up! It¡¯s not like he¡¯s only hurt physically right!¡± With ridiculous physical strength, Saki lifted Valentina who¡¯s considerably taller, and violently shook her. On the other hand, Valentina tries to calm her down with a deep blue face. ¡°I¡¯m sorry! I was only exaggerating a bit! He¡¯s just resting because of his fatigue and a cold! He¡¯s doing fine otherwise!¡± ¡°Then don¡¯t make it so easy to misunderstand from the start!¡± Saying so, Saki roughly pushed Valentina away. In addition, Schleer, who was silently bending her knees, also kicked Valentina in the shin. ¡°Uwah!¡± Seeing their superior holding her knee while screaming with tears in her eyes, Nora and Tersis looked at each other and smiled. Naturally, they have no intention to blame Schleer or Saki for their violent act either. Rather, this is quite refreshing for them as well. CH 126 Alliance between Bitter Enemies 2 ¡°I see¡­¡­.so you want to make an alliance to defeat Diaroze huh.¡± Several dozens of minutes later. They moved up to the conference room where Valentina explained the situation and her plan to the Schleer and the others. On the Calencian side, there were Schleer, Saki, and her staff officer Solana. Naturally, the Noredian side still consisted of Valentina, Nora, and Tersis. Valentina¡¯s proposal is exactly what she said at the sickbay. In short, she proposed an alliance between the Calencian army and Valentina Faction. Certainly, through cooperation, the power balance would be in their favor. After all, Valentina¡¯s force is nearly half the total size of the Noredian army stationed on this planet. With the cooperation from the Calencians, they would not fall behind Diaroze Faction. ¡°Still, this proposal sounds too good to be true. You people have been doing pretty much whatever you liked to our country until now you know? Do you think that it would be so easy for us to get along?¡± Saki strongly said. Certainly, looking at the proposal alone it may look like a ray of hope for the inferior Calencian army. However, emotionally, it¡¯s still difficult to fight alongside the Noredian troops who committed inhumane acts such as purge bombing on their planets. ¡°That is certainly true but¡­¡­.¡± ¡°Valentina-sama.¡± When Valentina started talking with the tone that indicated that she was already expecting this but wanted the Calencian side to let it slide, Tersis stopped her. She then sternly looked at Valentina and clearly said her piece. ¡°Whatever the reason may be, we are still the side that perpetrated such an act. I do not think that these people will be convinced by some frivolous reasons. If we are going to do this, I believe that we need to show them our sincerity first.¡± ¡°Uuh¡­¡­¡± That is certainly true. If the perpetrator of such a crime suddenly said that they should forget the past and join hands, the victim would never be convinced. ¡°Hmm, so there¡¯s actually some Noredian with backbone huh. You, what¡¯s your name?¡± ¡°Tersis van Melemheim¡­¡­.this is probably not our first meeting. You must be the pilot of that Samurai-striker right? I can tell from your atmosphere.¡± ¡°¡­¡­.Wha!? You are that [Heavenly Blade]!?¡± Although she sensed that Tersis was no ordinary person, Saki was surprised that she¡¯s such a bigshot. ¡°I¡¯m not here alone. This here is Lady Nora, one of the 4 Heavenlys, the [Heavenly Roar].¡± ¡°Two of Nored¡¯s strongest aces huh. The Noredian army doesn¡¯t seem to be doing well it seems.¡± Schleer said that with a sneer. Because of her abominable acts, it seems that Diaroze has become hated by her subordinates. ¡°¡­¡­there are correct ways to go about things even when it comes to war. My sister did not understand that.¡± Valentina sighed with a bitter expression. She doesn¡¯t want to be treated the same way but for the Calencians, both Valentina and Diaroze are their bitter enemies. Understanding that, Valentina stood up and deeply bowed to Schleer and the others. ¡°The purge bombing was completely our fault. I deeply apologize for that.¡± ¡°¡­¡­¡­.¡± The three on the Calencian side silently listened. Valentina then continued her words. ¡°Of course, when this battle is over, I will issue a formal apology. That will include compensation as well¡­¡­..I understand that this is not a problem that can be fixed with a formal apology and some compensation money but¡­¡­please, give us an opportunity to atone for our sins.¡± ¡°Your words are not worth anything though.¡± Said Schleer with her brows wrinkled. Valentina is apologizing to them but it¡¯s not like she¡¯s shallow enough to just forgive her. However, it is also unwise to get caught up by the past and cause even more death to her people. When she glanced back at Solana who¡¯s standing behind her, Solana gives her a quiet nod. ¡°Well, we will accept your apology. Indeed, we would rather have more allies and a promise of compensation right now. We will set aside our differences for the time being.¡± ¡°I appreciate that.¡± Valentina lowered her head again and took her seat with a sigh. ¡°So, there is one more important point that I must bring up. What are you people planning to do with Kisei-san? You wouldn¡¯t say that you would use this opportunity to make him yours right.¡± ¡°Of course. Don¡¯t lump me in with my sister. After he recovers his health, we will promptly return My Love to you.¡± ¡°My Love? She¡¯s quite a creepy person isn¡¯t she¡­¡­..¡± Hearing Solana¡¯s whisper, Scleer nodded in agreement. However, fortunately, Valentina doesn¡¯t seem to hear her. ¡°As proof of my sincerity, I will allow you to visit him. We haven¡¯t done anything unbefitting of a lady so we have nothing to hide. You can ask him yourself.¡± ¡®Does pushing him down and kissing him on the forehead count as something unbefitting of a lady though?¡¯ Thought Nora with a poker face. In any case, it seems that she will need to ask Kisei not to tell others about that later. After all, she wouldn¡¯t want to unnecessarily agitate the Calencians now. ¡°If you are willing to say that much then we will believe you.¡± Saying so, Schleer glanced at her watch. It¡¯s already midnight. It¡¯s unavoidable that it¡¯s this late since Valentina came to them when they were about to launch a night raid on the Noredian fleet. If possible, she¡¯d like to go see Kisei now but as expected, visiting him at this time would only bother him instead. ¡°¡­¡­It¡¯s already late today. Let¡¯s visit your ship first thing tomorrow.¡± In the end, it was settled so. TLN: Annnnd, Alliance signed. it seems we won¡¯t be able to reach chapter 150 within the end of the year though. At this rate, I should finish this series probably next June/July at the earliest. CH 127 The Visit The next morning. The Calencian fleet joined up with Valentina¡¯s fleet. The Calencian soldiers are uncomfortable about this alliance since the crimson battleships of the Nored empire which were the symbol of their enemy until yesterday are casually moored right beside their ships. Of course, they were explained about the situation in advance but it doesn¡¯t mean that they will be convinced. ¡°¡­¡­..the storage deck is the same for every country huh.¡± In such a delicate atmosphere, Schleer and Saki visited Valentina¡¯s high-speed battleship, the [Prussia]. Naturally, their purpose is to visit Kisei. The storage deck of the [Prussia] has a fairly large space but its structure and equipment are not much different from those on board the [Radiant]. Since this is the first time for Schleer to board a foreign battleship, she is looking around the place with interest. Since she managed to get a proper rest last night, she is now in a much better mood. ¡°Is that striker being repainted to differentiate from the ones belonging to Diaroze?¡± Schleer asks while pointing at a [Jetta] which is now under a repainting process. It is not that [Jetta] alone that is being repainted but every striker parked inside the storage deck. Although the ship¡¯s ventilation system is operating at full power, the deck is still filled with a strong solvent odor. ¡°Yeah, we wouldn¡¯t want friendly fire after all. It¡¯s would be better if you can tell at the first glance that they belong to my faction right?¡± Leading the Calencian visitors, Valentina turned around and showed a tablet to Schleer and Saki. what¡¯s being shown is a CH image of a [Jetta] with a white striped pattern across the center area of its body. ¡°I actually wanted to change the whole base color but it would take too much time and effort to do that¡­.just consider the striker with these white stripes as your ally.¡± ¡°I see, we wouldn¡¯t mistake your striker with this.¡± Although all strikers have an IFF system that is used to identify friends and foes using electronic signals, it¡¯s still possible for a mistake to occur when your enemy and your ally pilot strikers that look exactly the same. That¡¯s why it¡¯s necessary to add this. While they were in the middle of that conversation, the party headed to the sickbay where Kisei is resting. Being surrounded by the Noredian soldiers, Schleer felt a little uncomfortable but they unexpectedly didn¡¯t look that hostile toward them. At least, it doesn¡¯t look like they were forced to be here. ¡°We¡¯re here.¡± After a while, Valentina stopped her feet in front of a large door. On both sides of the door are two guards armed with rifles. The security details here appeared to be very strict. After the two guards lowered their heads to them and let them through, they were greeted with the unique scent of disinfectant of the sickbay. Even though it¡¯s called a sickbay, since it belongs to a flagship-class battleship, it was about the same size as a small clinic. When Valentina walked inside, she greeted the doctor with a smile. ¡°How¡¯s My Love doing?¡± ¡°There has been no complication so far, Your Highness. His fever has lowered to some extent and he has regained his consciousness now.¡± In the first place, his condition was not serious and could be cured after taking medicine and a good night¡¯s sleep. There was no need for him to be hospitalized. This kind of care is nothing more than Valentina¡¯s being overprotective. After nodding to the doctor, she knocked on the door at the back of the sickbay. ¡°It¡¯s me. My Love, may I enter?¡± ¡°Please come in¨C¡± Kisei¡¯s tone was very bright. Hearing that, Schleer strokes her chest in relief. When the door was opened and they went inside, they found a large private room with only one bed. There was a large monitor with a window-like design installed on the wall displaying images of a forest. ¡°Ahh, it¡¯s been a while. Sorry that I made you worried.¡± After seeing Schleer and Saki, Kisei tried to get up from the bed but Schleer hurriedly stopped him. ¡°N, No, it¡¯s fine! Please get some rest Kisei-san.¡± Said Schleer as she rushed to the bed with Saki following behind her. Kisei¡¯s face was a little red but it doesn¡¯t seem like he¡¯s in any bad condition. ¡°I was surprised when I heard that they were going to join hands with the Calencian side but¡­¡­¡­it¡¯s really happening huh? Well, I¡¯m glad that I can meet you again like this.¡± Kisei shyly said with a bitter smile as he scratched his cheek. After all, when he was taken by Diaroze, he was already prepared for death. ¡°Don¡¯t just start saying something ominous now you idiot.¡± Saki rebuked him while wiping her tears before gently poking his head with her hand. ¡°Always pushing yourself like that! You should have just ditched us back then and escaped by yourself.¡± Hearing that, Kisei tried to argue back but faster than he could open his mouth, Schleer clung to his body. ¡°I¡¯m so glad¡­..that you¡¯re okay.¡± ¡°Wait, it¡¯s just a cold you know! Get off me!¡± Kisei started to panic but Schleer didn¡¯t pay him any mind and tightly hugged him. ¡°I¡¯m truly, truly, sorry¡­¡­.because of me, you had to¡­¡­¡­.¡± ¡°That happened because you gave me your sword right! If anyone is at fault here then it¡¯s me.¡± Ignoring his words, Schleer continues to hug Kisei while apologizing to him. In the end, Kisei wasn¡¯t released from her embrace for a while. CH 128 Baggy ¡°Haa¡­¡­¡± Schleer exhaled a deep deep sigh with a surprisingly dissatisfied expression. She then heaved out another sigh after taking a look at her own clothes with a deep crease between her brows. She is wearing a Noredian military uniform. Not to mention that it is a baggy one that covers most of her limbs. This uniform is one of Valentina¡¯s personal uniforms. With the height difference of 20cm,¡­¡­.it naturally made Schleer look laughable and pathetic. ¡°Hahahahahahaha, it does fit you doesn¡¯t it? Eh?¡± Valentina laughed at her with an extremely amused expression. Although the circumstances led to them joining hands, the scene was still extremely humorous for her. After all, rather than seeing Schleer as an individual, Valentina perceives her more as her love rival. ¡°Kuh¡­..¡± ¡°This happens because you suddenly hugged him without thinking about the consequences. For the sake of your future, maybe you ought to be more prudent about your actions don¡¯t you think?¡± ¡°Mugugugugu¡­¡­.¡± Groaned Schleer with a bright red face. As Valentina said, she¡¯s now in this uniform because she hugged Kisei. ¡°Even rotten as you are, you are still the supreme commander of the Calencian army right? If you catch a cold now¡­¡­you should be able to imagine what will happen. It¡¯s a pain you know. Disinfecting your whole body wasn¡¯t enough, your clothes need to be thoroughly clean as well! Don¡¯t you think this treatment is rather natural?¡± ¡°Yeah, I got it, it was my fault. I will admit that. Even so, why do I have to wear your uniform?¡± Schleer¡¯s uniform is being washed at the moment and of course, she didn¡¯t bring any spare with her. Since she couldn¡¯t afford to walk around with no clothes on, she understood that she had to borrow something to wear¡­¡­..still, in the end, she was forced into Valentina¡¯s uniform. It¡¯s clear that Valentina wanted to make fun of her height (Which is still a few centimeters taller than the average height for Vuld women). ¡°You are a princess. You wouldn¡¯t want yourself to be seen wearing the uniform of the common soldiers right? I was only being considerate you know. Hahahahaha.¡± The corners of Schleer¡¯s mouth lowered as she turned away from Valentina who burst out laughing again. She then glanced at Kisei who¡¯s still lying on the bed. When her eyes met with his, he cocked his head at her with a smile. ¡°¡­¡­.well, let¡¯s leave it at that. Hmph.¡± She still felt embarrassed by it but if that made Kisei laugh, she¡¯s fine with that. After rolling back the sleeves of the uniform which are longer than her arm, Schleer reached out to Kisei. ¡°Ahem! ¡­¡­.for the time being, I¡¯m glad that you are safe. When you were taken away by that woman, I honestly thought that everything was over¡­¡­..I was so worried.¡± ¡°They actually treated me pretty well, you know. I was even invited to a shogi match when I didn¡¯t have anything to do too.¡± Said Kisei with a bitter smile. Honestly, he also thought that it was over for him but surprisingly, Diaroze wasn¡¯t as terrible a person as the rumors say. ¡°Shogi?¡± ¡°It¡¯s a chess-like game. Come to think of it, I think I have played it in the past too¡­¡­with Aneue that is.¡± Valentina answers with an awkward expression. ¡°She¡¯s good, isn¡¯t she? I couldn¡¯t win against her even once after all.¡± ¡°¡­¡­.yes, quite.¡± ¡°I see¡­¡­¡­.I don¡¯t think I will have the chance to play Shogi with her again. Now I will never win against Aneue huh.¡± Whispered Valentina. She¡¯s definitely not a fan of Diaroze either but she¡¯s still her family. No matter what, she will never be able to completely separate herself from her sister, she realized that now. ¡°If you can make up with her then I think you should you know. It doesn¡¯t seem like she actually hates you after all, Valentina.¡± ¡°No.¡± Saki interrupted. Her grip on her sword strengthened as her expression turned severe. ¡°I will make sure to settle this in the next battle. She¡¯s the woman who ordered the slaughter of my people. She needs to be caught and put on trial¡­¡­..after that, only execution is waiting for her.¡± ¡°Uun, I see¡­..¡± After all, Diaroze is the general who led the Noredian¡¯s invasion. It will be difficult for her to not be accounted for the crime she has committed. Kisei heavily sighed. For whatever reason, he doesn¡¯t feel like seeing her die. Especially after he got to know her through the time they shared together. ¡°¡­¡­¡­when will you start the assault?¡± They can not afford to wait around forever. From Schleer and Valentina¡¯s point of view, they need to finish this before the reinforcements from the Nored mainland arrive. That¡¯s why after they merged their forces, they should launch an attack on Diaroze immediately after. ¡°Tomorrow.¡± Replied Schleer with her arms crossed. The rolled-up sleeves slid down with her movement and she had to hurriedly fix them with a blushed face. ¡°Ah, tomorrow?¡­¡­ if I get better by then, I should be able to take part in it right?¡± ¡°N, No, you can¡¯t! Please relax and rest!¡± As expected, Schleer shook her hand in a hurry to dissuade Kisei. On the other hand, Valentina also agrees with her with a delicate expression. ¡°She¡¯s right. What, you don¡¯t have to be worried. Our force is big enough to win this even without you, My Love.¡± ¡°Eh, no way¡­¡­..¡± Kisei¡¯s expression turned to a disappointed one. Seeing that, Valentina gently continues. ¡°It would be bad if your conditions worsen too. I¡¯m sorry but I will be keeping an eye on you so that you won¡¯t sortie on your own.¡± ¡°S, Seriously?¡± With his mouth cramped up, Kisei continued to groan. CH 129 Diaroze, Madness The next morning. Diaroze was pacing around the bridge of the [Odelvansen]. Her expression seemed agitated and there were big dark circles under her eyes. Surprisingly, she hasn¡¯t slept a wink since she was knocked out. The shock she received from letting Kisei escape made her unable to sleep even when she tried. ¡°Y, Your Highness¡­..please calm down a little. You are not a tuna so you don¡¯t have to move around so much¡­¡­¡± ¡°Who¡¯s a tuna!¡± (TLN: I don¡¯t quite get it but it¡¯s kind of hilarious lol) Not listening to the words of her subordinates, Diaroze yelled in annoyance. ¡°More importantly, have you found the rebels yet!?¡± ¡°N, No, ma¡¯am¡­..unfortunately. We sent out a unit to perform reconnaissance but¡­¡­¡± ¡°Kuh¡­¡­you incompetent curs!¡± Diaroze swore. However, her subordinates were apathetic. After all, she¡¯s a woman who after trying to get her hands on a man, she got the table turned on her. Besides, it¡¯s a little difficult to be intimidated by someone who got knocked out by her own little sister. Diaroze¡¯s subordinates were those who did not participate in Valentina¡¯s coup but it¡¯s not like they have pledged their allegiance to Diaroze either. However, even though she¡¯s the person in charge, Diaroze is not in the state to worry about that right now. Right now, the only thing in her head is regret. (It was a mistake¡­¡­¡­) Diaroze deeply frowned as her mouth tied into a single line. (He ran away because I used the whip on him. That was on me¡­¡­..The one who should have been tied up was me and it¡¯s him who should have had the whip!) If Kisei hears what she¡¯s thinking right now, he would have retorted with [No, that¡¯s not where you went wrong]. However, Diaroze who finally realized her true fetish continues to escape reality due to her regret and lack of sleep. (Anyway, I have to quickly quell these rebels and take back Kisei¡­¡­..After that I need to firmly apologize to him and have him punish me later¡­¡­) Due to fatigue and her lack of sleep, her mind is not working correctly. Seeing Diaroze talking to herself with a loose smile on her face, her subordinates were creeped out by her. ¡°Still¡­..the number of defectors is too high. More than half of our army has turned to the other side¡­¡­.Your Highness, what are you planning to do? If we collide with them head-on, we won¡¯t be able to get out of it unscathed either.¡± Naturally, the enemy here is not only Valentina¡¯s faction. There is also the Calencian army as well. The possibility that their two enemies have joined forces is more than likely. ¡°Hmph¡­..that huh. If it¡¯s just that then we will manage somehow. You don¡¯t have to worry about it.¡± Diaroze shrugged it off as though it was not even worth thinking of countermeasures against them and replied with confidence. On the other hand, the staff officers¡¯ expressions turned suspicious. ¡°W, What are you saying, Your Highness¡­¡­?¡± ¡°Even though they dubbed this as a coup, it wasn¡¯t like our soldiers suddenly were enamored by my sister personally. They only changed sides because of Hokuto Kisei¡¯s charm.¡± Diaroze grinned and waved her hand while leaving out that she also fell for Kisei¡¯s charm. ¡°T, Then¡­¡­if we simply remove the carrot, the enemy should lose their purpose and quickly collapse. It¡¯s simple isn¡¯t it?¡± ¡°I, I see.¡± Diaroze knows that Tersis told the soldiers that they will be rewarded by Kisei personally for their achievement. Without such a reward hanging in front of them, that should leave Valentina with a few that are loyal to her. The pillar of this coup was not Valentina but Kisei himself. That¡¯s where she is planning to exploit them. ¡°That being said, that man¡¯s combat skill is abnormal. Capturing him with our available forces would be¡­¡­..¡± She managed to capture him after exhausting him at the cost of major damage to her main force and ganging upon him with the 4 Heavenlys as well as Valentina. Rather, from the damage her forces suffered, this result could be described as a complete defeat. In their current situation where her force was literally cut in half, it is absolutely impossible to do that again. ¡°It will be okay. I will capture him myself.¡± However, Diaroze affirms her subordinates with a confident expression. (For the time being, I need to prepare a bouquet and a pick-up line¡­¡­after that, all I need is to go for broke.) Diaroze completely lost her mind due to the lack of sleep but unfortunately, her subordinates were unaware of that. They simply look in awe at the Undefeated Princess. ¡°I see, I understand, Your Highness. My deepest apology, I¡¯ve overstepped my boundary¡­¡­¡± ¡°Hmph¡­¡­¡± Diaroze crossed her arms like it was nothing much to her. Then, the operator in charge of enemy detection tensely raised her voice. ¡°Multiple hostile ships approaching from the west! It¡¯s a big fleet, ma¡¯am¡­¡­bigger than ours!¡± ¡°So they joined up with the Calencian dogs after all huh! But, I was actually waiting for you!¡± Diaroze had a ferocious smile on her face. Her expression looked like one of a carnivorous beast that just found its prey. Despite being in an overwhelmingly unfavorable situation, her subordinates stoke their chest in relief at the sight of their fearless leader. ¡°The distance¡­..Hm, they¡¯ve gotten close but this should still be manageable.¡± Diaroze lightly nods after confirming the enemy location via the data sent to her terminal. She then operates the terminal and brings up the map of the area. ¡°There¡¯s an archipelago to our southwest right? Lure them there. I¡¯m not so foolish as to fight them head-on. We are going guerrilla.¡± ¡°Yes, ma¡¯am!¡± As ordered, the Noredian Fleet began heading south at full speed. CH 130 A Hard Fight, Diaroze 1 ¡°Fumu¡­¡­.as I thought, she chose this place after all.¡± Muttered Valentina inside a [Jetta] that is flying low as though it is gliding on the sea surface. On her radar screen, the light spots signifying Diaroze¡¯s fleet are heading toward an area with more than a dozen small islands that are densely packed together. Even for a big battleship, if you hide it behind an island and activate the active stealth device it would be difficult to discover its accurate location from a long distance. With a smaller force, it was within her expectation that Diaroze would choose a guerrilla tactic. ¡°It seems that we should avoid blindly rushing in. They have that gigantic [Odelvansen] after all¡­¡­.I don¡¯t even want to imagine how much damage it can do from up close.¡± Said Schleer who¡¯s flying next to Valentina while pondering her strategies. On a side note, Schleer is currently the only person piloting a Zenith right now. Because of their previous battle, the strikers belonging to Valentina, Saki, and the two of the 4 Heavenlys have been rendered unusable and are yet to be completely repaired. Thanks to this, they have been forced to use mass-produced machines. ¡°Are we going to attack them with our strikers to flush them out now? That¡¯s quite an interesting plan [DESUNE].¡± ¡°Without any joint training, there¡¯s no way we can use the advanced maneuvers right? Since we have the superior number here, we should be able to steadily corner them anyway.¡± Schleer replied to Nora¡¯s sarcastic remark with a casual tone. After all, the Calencian side had been forced to fight disadvantageous battles until now. It¡¯s quite refreshing for her to be able to use a brute force tactic like this. ¡°That being said, with the increased amount of our anti-ship equipment, we should more or less be able to deal with the enemy ships. We still have to handle their strikers ourselves though.¡± In this operation, almost all strikers will participate in the attack leaving aside only some small units to guard the main fleet. Leading the charge will be Schleer, Valentina, and the elites like Saki and the two of the 4 Heavenlys. This formation was decided by their policy to take down the enemy strikers as soon as possible. ¡°The problem is whether Diaroze will come out herself. If she¡¯s going to sortie with her [Zentis] then we need to quickly deal with her¡­¡­.to be frank, against a high-end machine like that, it would be a hard fight even with our skills. After all, a lukewarm attack will not work against a machine like that.¡± Tersis said in frustration. If the specs of their strikers are equal¡­¡­in other words, if she has her [Van Wolf], she¡¯s confident that she can take on Diaroze alone. However, what she¡¯s piloting right now is an ordinary [Jetta]. Against [Zentis]¡¯s heavy armor, its firepower is not nearly enough. ¡°At that time¡­¡­.I will do something about it myself. It¡¯s already been proven that my blaster cannon is effective against Noredian¡¯s Royalcraft after all.¡± ¡°Muh¡­¡­.¡± A crease formed between the eyebrows of Valentina whose striker was blown in half by [Mistilteinn]¡¯s cannon. ¡°Still, you have been defeated once by that woman already. No one would want to see you fumble after you called her out to single combat right?¡± ¡°¡­¡­.¡± Schleer was silent and her mouth turned downward. Certainly, she was once defeated by Diaroze in a single combat. Of course, she doesn¡¯t have any plan to lose a second time but it¡¯s still hard to argue back when Valentina brought it up like that. ¡°Besides, you do know that my sister can resort to cowardly means without batting an eye right? If you focus on fighting her alone, you might get shot from behind you know.¡± Valentina confidently grinned. ¡°Even a Royalcraft like [Zentis] can be taken down if we focus fire on it from all sides. There¡¯s no need for you to go out of your way to challenge her.¡± ¡°That is¡­..certainly true.¡± Still, Schleer wants to defeat Diaroze herself. She thought that she should take the responsibility for making Kisei go through such a terrifying experience because of her defeat. However, if she pushes it and ends up losing, that would be like putting a cart before a horse. Thinking so, Schleer reluctantly agreed. ¡°I understand, I will avoid single combat with her.¡± ¡°It¡¯s great that you are so understanding.¡± ¡®Why does this woman always have to be so annoying?¡¯ Thought Schleer as she puffed her cheeks. ¡°Don¡¯t get on their pace now, Your Highness. Even if they say that we are in this together, there¡¯s no doubt that they will try to hog all the good stuff to themselves¡­¡­.if we go along with whatever they say then we might end up getting swept by the legs you know.¡± Saki cautioned her in a whisper. Of course, they are using a personal communication line so that Valentina and the others do not hear them. Hearing that, Schleer cut the line to Valentina and sighs. ¡°In the end, we only share the same enemy this time¡­¡­.I don¡¯t really want to show them an opening.¡± Although they are allies at the moment, there¡¯s no way to tell what will happen after they defeat Diaroze. In the worst case, Schleer was even considering the possibility that she might get shot from behind. ¡°Still¡­¡­it¡¯s true we can make use of their force. Seriously, what a pain of a situation.¡± Without Kisei¡¯s power, the Calencian army has no power to fight the Noredian head-on. Before allying with Valentina, the main goal of their previous operation was to rescue Kisei and promptly retreat. ¡°For the time being, let us prioritize on defeating Diaroze. We will have to deal with the problem afterward¡­¡­.¡± After muttering so in a small voice, Saki glances at the radar screen. A group of strikers was approaching them from the archipelago. The battle is about to start. For the time being, she decided to not put too much thought into things and focus on the battle. CH 131 A Hard Fight, Diaroze 2 A fierce battle has begun in the bright blue southern sea. Powerful beams and bullets are being exchanged and strikers are crashing onto the various small islands with loud noises. ¡°These guys again!? You think you can take us out with these cheap scraps?¡± Saki shouted while splitting an outdated-striker, [Giro], in half with her electromagnetic slash. Although she once faced them at Leboir, she still thinks that their performance is too poor to be put on the frontline. Saki is now fighting using the Calencian standard striker model [Claymore] instead of her [Dainsleif] since it¡¯s still in repair. Since Valentina and the others have also lost their Zeniths in the previous battle, they were worried about how they would fare in striker combat but so far the battle is favoring the Calencian side. ¡°Hah! To only be able to send out these kinds of units, I guess it¡¯s already over for that woman[DESUNE]!¡± Using her blaster magnums, Nora fired into a group of [Giros]. Two of them were shot down, leaving the rest faltering in their advance. Nora tried to take another shot right after but she was stopped by a jarring warning sound. [[Energy Insufficient! Energy Insufficient! Weapon is not ready to fire.]] Screamed an electronic voice. Since she¡¯s using a weapon designed to be used by a Zenith-type machine, the mass-produced [Jetta] couldn¡¯t sufficiently supply enough power to it. With a [Jetta]¡¯s capability, the magnum can only fire two rounds consecutively. It will also take some time for it to be recharged. ¡°Tsk!¡± ¡°Hmph¡­¡­.My apology but I will be taking your preys, Lady Nora.¡± Tersis slashes at the rest of the [Giro] that Nora failed to take down. She is also piloting a [Jetta] but her movements are extremely sharp. When her shiny longsword reflected the sunlight, the [Giro] was horizontally cut in half and crashed. A large column of water rises from the impact and the stains of hydraulic oil spread on the sea surface. ¡°I¡¯m sorry that I have to prey on the weak¡­¡­.but I still have a score to keep!¡± ¡°U, Uwahh, don¡¯t get any closer!¡± The panicked [Giro] blindly fired its submachine gun and naturally, there¡¯s no way that Tersis would be hit by that. With a light thrust from the thruster, she skillfully avoided the unpredictable shots and quickly dispatched them. She then revved up the engine with her longsword in hands and kicked off the [Giro], sending it powerlessly falling to the sea, before approaching another [Giro] and cutting it at extreme speed. ¡°¡­¡­Uhg, I won¡¯t lose [DESU]!¡± With a fierce expression, Nora gritted her teeth and shot the approaching [Jetta] to support her allies. However, as though trying to exploit an opening, a [Giro] charged at her with its rifle-attached bayonet while firing at her. Avoiding the shot with light movement, Nora parries the bayonet thrust with the magnum blaster in her right hand and stabs the abdomen of [Giro] using the bayonet of the magnum in her left hand. ¡°It¡¯s a hundred years too early for the likes of you to challenge me in close combat [DESUYO]!¡± Nora and Tersis, it was like fighting against demons for the Noredian soldiers. Their actions are destroying their morale. ¡°Th, those weapons¡­¡­don¡¯t tell me, it¡¯s Tersis-sama and Nora-sama!?¡± ¡°So it¡¯s true that they joined up with the rebels!? W, We have to run¡­..there¡¯s no way we can win¡­¡­.¡± Although they want to escape, the two of the 4 Heavenlys mercilessly continue their attack. Like a mountain of corpses¡­¡­..the wreckages of their strikers are piling under their feet. ¡°It seems they are quite enthusiastic about this huh¡­¡­I mean, I should be grateful I guess.¡± Valentina started to have cold sweat as she watched their rampage. Even if they lost against Kisei, the ability of the 4 Heavenlys is still unrivaled. Even as allies, seeing them fighting like that still sent chills down her spine. ¡°¡­.Fuu. Kisei-san won against those people? Seriously, it seems I still have a big hurdle to overcome huh.¡± Schleer also seems to share that opinion and lets out a deep sigh. However, no matter how good they are, it¡¯s not like they can just watch them go on a rampage from the rear alone. After checking the radar for enemy machines, she spotted 2 signatures approaching them at high speed. ¡°This speed¡­¡­Zeniths? Is it Diaroze?¡± Considering the enemy¡¯s tactics of exhausting them using insignificant units so far, it¡¯s possible that it¡¯s Diaroze herself. Still, it hasn¡¯t even been thirty minutes since the battle began. This is too early for the general herself to take to the field¡­¡­ ¡°Where is he¡­¡­¡­.WHERE¡¯S HOKUTO KISEI!¡± However, Schleer¡¯s intuition was not wrong. With a horrifying and deeply emotional scream, a black gold striker is flying toward them at full speed. Behind it is a familiar magenta Zenith. ¡°Uu, that¡¯s¡­..the [Pafeel]! So they repaired it in time huh¡­¡­¡± Valentina¡¯s complexion quickly turned pale. That¡¯s right, it¡¯s the personal machine of Eleanor, one of the 4 Heavenlys¡­¡­[Pafeel]. Just like Nora and Tersis¡¯s machines, it was supposed to be disabled in the previous battle, However,¡­¡­¡­¡­ ¡°Aren¡¯t there only common soldiers around here!? Oi, that bloated Zenith over there! You are the Calencian princess¡­¡­¡­.Schleer or something right!?¡± As soon as she arrived, Diaroze immediately pointed at Schleer¡¯s [Mistilteinn] and shouted. Her voice was bloodcurdling. ¡°¡­¡­Yes. It¡¯s me, Schleer Henrietta.¡± ¡°You, where did you hide Hokuto Kisei!¡± ¡°That¡¯s the first thing that came out of your mouth!? You kidnapper!!¡± Schleer shouted back with blue veins popping on her forehead. Since Diaroze said it like they were the ones who took what¡¯s hers, Schleer angrily makes the case that it was Diaroze who kidnapped him first. ¡°Kisei-san is¡­¡­.¡± ¡°His conditions suddenly worsened after we rescued him¡­¡­.that¡¯s all I am going say.¡± Suddenly, Valentina interrupted Schleer¡¯s words. Her voice sounded strangely sad. Just what is this woman saying now, thought Schleer as she gazes at Valentina with a frown. ¡°Aneue, it was all your fault.¡± ¡°Wh, Wha, Wha, What did you say!?!?¡± Hearing Valentina said it as though Kisei passed away, Schleer couldn¡¯t stay silent anymore. To find out what she¡¯s trying to do, she connected a personal communication line to Valentina¡¯s [Jetta]. ¡°Y, You, what are you¡­¡­.¡± ¡°It¡¯s a mental attack. [Zentis] is a powerful striker and my sister is not just an average pilot¡­¡­.we need to use bluff to get her off her games.¡± Schleer doubts why Valentina is so confident about such a strategy but as she said, the plan certainly worked. ¡°S, Stop lying to me! If I take all of you down he will be worried and show up right!? EEI, just stay right there! I will shoot you down myself!¡± ¡°Y, Your Highness! maybe calm down a little!?¡± Diaroze pointed the muzzle of her full-auto shotgun toward the [Mistilteinn] and started blasting. Eleanor tried to caution her to calm down but she didn¡¯t stop. ¡°Shut up! You just go take care of the other two! I will take care of these insolent fools myself!¡± Diaroze shouted so and rushed full speed at Schleer and Valentina. Seeing Diaroze abandon her role as a tactician and a leader, Schleer could only be astounded. ¡°Rather than a mental attack, I think you just stoke the flame though¡­¡­.?¡± CH 132 A Hard Fight, Diaroze 3 This is the second time Schleer directly faced Diaroze. However, even if she¡¯s used to it, the movement of the [Zentis] was too sharp that it proves to be difficult to deal with. ¡°Kuh!¡± Schleer had to make a big leap to avoid the barrage of shotgun shells. Diaroze¡¯s shotgun is an extremely troublesome weapon to deal with due to its high fire rate and range. A graze from such an automatic shotgun should not be able to penetrate her armor but if the pellets hit the unprotected parts like the sensor or weapons then it will greatly compromise her striker. ¡°Seriously, the striker is as troublesome as its pilot huh!¡± Shouting so, Schleer used the missile pods on the [Mistilteinn]¡¯s legs. A large number of micro missiles rush toward the [Zentis] with trails of white smoke. ¡°You think you can stop me with that!?¡± Diaroze intercepted the missiles that came at her like a curtain with her automatic shotgun in an instant. There were few remaining missiles that managed to hit the [Zentis] but it only exploded on the armor. The power of the missiles was only enough to make some scratches on it. ¡°Aneue! Let¡¯s settle things here!¡± Valentina rushes at Diaroze using that opening. On the other hand, Diaroze easily parried the tip of her lance away with the longsword that she pulled out with one hand. ¡°You foolish little sister! Did you get so greedy that you took what¡¯s mine!?¡± The betrayal of her little sister seems to have been quite shocking to Diaroze. The expression that accompanied those words was unlike her and it looked heartbreaking. ¡°The greedy one here is you! After resorting to such dishonorable means to lay your hands on My Love¡­¡­I wouldn¡¯t allow a woman like you to be the next empress!¡± ¡°Shut up! That man¡¯s mine! But if you apologize and return Hokuto Kisei to me now, I might consider lending him to you though! Just return him to me!¡± Valentina responded to Diaroze¡¯s offer with a blaster shot fired from her lance. ¡°You fool, I will make sure to punish you after all this is over!¡± Shouted Diaroze as she avoided the crimson beam. She then pointed the muzzle of her shotgun at Valentina¡¯s [Jetta] in fury but she had to take an evasive maneuver as Schleer was pointing her blaster cannon at her. ¡°This is between me and my sister! Don¡¯t get involved!¡± ¡°Sorry but that¡¯s not the case this time! Unfortunately, mine and that woman¡¯s interests are aligned this time!¡± Only a monster like Kisei can fight a high-end Zenith like the [Zentis] in a mass-produced model. Diaroze herself also possesses enough skill as a pilot to be called an ace so it¡¯s impossible for Valentina to deal with her alone. ¡°What a troublesome woman¡­¡­.! Oi, Eleanor, do something about this!¡± ¡°Your Highnessss! It¡¯s impossible, right now I can¡¯t!¡± Diaroze tried to have her subordinate deal with Schleer but the reply from the magenta Zenith was merciless. ¡°Even I can¡¯t deal with this ridiculous samurai, Tersis-sama, and Nora-chan at once! My apology but please do something about her yourself!¡± ¡°Who are you calling a ridiculous samurai EH!¡± ¡°It¡¯s obviously you, you sword maniac!!¡± For the time being, it seems that Diaroze can not expect any support from Eleanor. Grinding her teeth, Diaroze shouted back while barraging Valentina with her shotgun. ¡°Hmph, whatever! The victory will be mine anyway.¡± ¡°It seems your lust for him made you go crazy, Aneue. No matter how I see it, the victory is obviously mine!¡± Valentina said with a triumphant expression. Certainly, the allied force between Valentina¡¯s force and the Calencian army is pushing back the Noredian army led by Diaroze. In the first place, the fact that Diaroze dispatched the reserved force consisting of the [Giros] so quickly already made it clear which side will win the battle. ¡°Kukukuku¡­¡­seriously, this is why you are dead last in the succession line!¡± However, Diaroze confidently replied with a provocation. Diaroze did not plan to battle them seriously from the start. After all, she already has another plan in place. ¡°Wh, What!?¡± Judging from her sister¡¯s calm reply, Valentina realized that her words were not a bluff and her expression turned severe. ¡°Another fleet is heading toward yours as we speak right now! With Liren at the lead of course¡­¡­her machine has already been repaired, a fleet with barely any escort is nothing to her! I am here only to buy them some time. With no fleet to return to, all you can do is rout!¡± ¡°Kuh, I wondered why there were so few but¡­¡­..this is your plan!?¡± Schleer grits her teeth. The allied force sent out most of its strikers on this attack to fight the still powerful Diaroze¡¯s fleet. If what Diaroze said was true, there¡¯s no doubt that the fleet will suffer serious damage. ¡°What do you think? Should we retreat for the time being?¡± Valentina glances at Schleer. Certainly, if their fleet is destroyed now, their chance of victory will greatly decrease. After all, most areas on this planet are still under Noredian control. On the other hand, the Calencian side has nowhere to resupply themselves. Diaroze can always retreat to space if her fleet was destroyed while Schleer and the others would be left to dry with no way to get more supply. ¡°Oh, do you think I will allow that? You fools are going to stay with me here!¡± With a triumphant smile, Diaroze rushed toward the [Mistilteinn] while blasting her shotgun and Schleer had to avoid the shells with chills running down her spine. ¡°Ugh¡­¡­.we were too careless!¡± Schleer muttered words of regret but there¡¯s nothing she can do now. Right now, the only thing she can do is to defeat Diaroze as soon as possible and get back to her fleet¡­¡­however, Diaroze was still a formidable opponent. CH 133 A Hard Fight, Diaroze 4 ¡°Pl, please stop! If we let you sortie then we will be in deep trouble you know!?¡± In the storage deck of the [Prussia] where the air raid alarm is echoing, Kisei was trying to get past an MP. ¡°But there¡¯s a whole army coming at us right now, isn¡¯t it? If I don¡¯t go out then it would be a disaster right?¡± With a mask covering his mouth and a cooling pad on his forehead, Kisei who looked like the embodiment of a sick person argued back against the MPs while struggling to get through. It has been too long since the Noredian striker corp was spotted by the radar. If he doesn¡¯t sortie right now, he won¡¯t be able to make it in time to intercept them. ¡°We only have one escort unit with us, they can¡¯t possibly handle over a hundred strikers alone!¡± ¡°T, that is certainly true but¡­¡­¡± The MP also understands that they are currently in a bind. However, Valentina emphasized that they should never allow Kisei to sortie. In fact, when she touched his body as she tried to stop him, she clearly felt how heated his body is, it¡¯s clear that the cold is still ravaging his body. Using her common sense, she judged that she should not allow someone in such a condition to be on the battlefield. ¡°Seriously, I beg you¡­¡­.I will convince Valentina later so that you guys will not be punished okay¡­¡­.¡± ¡°Uuh¡­¡­.¡± Being suddenly told that with such a tone, the MP wavered. Then she noticed that Kisei is looking at them with an upturned gaze. Since she was trying to restrain him, the distance between them is less than 10cm. His unworldly beautiful face was just a breath away from her and her heart started racing. ¡°B, But¡­¡­¡± ¡°Is it no good¡­¡­?¡± ¡°I, I guess there¡¯s no other way¡­¡­.¡± The MP unintentionally let go of him. Her colleague let out a scream but it was already too late. Kisei ran up to a spare [Jetta] at the end of the deck and operated the maintenance crane with familiar movements before jumping into the cockpit. ¡°Alright, this one¡¯s already warmed up. I can go out right away.¡± He quickly readies the striker and directed it to the launch deck. No one could stop him since they were already panicking by the enemy¡¯s surprise attack. ¡°I¡¯m heading out! Get clear!¡± After warning the nearby crew using the outer speaker, Kisei took off at full speed. Since he knows that they would never give him permission to sortie, he didn¡¯t use the catapult this time. ¡°Uhgh, my head is pounding¡­.¡± Kisei muttered with a frown. He managed to sortie but he knows that his condition is not perfect. Glancing at the radar, he found that the enemy had already closed in quite a bit. His ally interceptors have already engaged them but they are being forced back due to the fact that the enemy has more than twice as many strikers attacking them. ¡°Th, this is bad¡­¡­..they already made it halfway through.¡± If they could intercept the enemy at a position a little further away from the fleet, he should be able to keep them there but at this distance, it will be difficult to completely repel the enemy anti-ship units. If he engages one, another will surely take a shot at the fleet. Battleships aside, their destroyer-class and cruiser-class can be fatally damaged by striker¡¯s anti-ship armaments. ¡°For the time being, I have no choice but to reduce their number as much as possible huh.¡± Blowing the thruster, he heads directly toward the enemy. Several [Jettas] with anti-ship armaments had already broken through the interception unit and were flying toward his direction. ¡°We have a newcomer!¡± ¡°What can they do with a single machine? Crush them!¡± Red rays from the enemy blaster rifles flooded toward Kisei. At the same time, two of them were instantly taken down by the bullets deflected by his photon saber. ¡°U, Uwahhh!! It¡¯s the [Wicked Star]!? Why he¡¯s in a [Jetta]!?¡± Since there¡¯s no other pilot who can do something like this, the Noredian soldiers immediately realized the identity of their opponent. ¡°C, Calm down! Her Highness told us that the [Wicked Star] is not to be touched! There¡¯s no need for us to face him head-on!¡± Their commander hurriedly said so. Since Diaroze¡¯s goal was to recapture Kisei, it¡¯s a matter of course that they were ordered to not harm him. Naturally, Diaroze also understands that he is not someone that can easily get shot down even if they go all out but¡­¡­¡­she¡¯s still afraid that he might get hurt in the unlikely case. ¡°Unn? Nn!?¡± The lack of hostility from his opponents puzzled Kisei. At best, they only shot at his general direction from a distance. With a frown, Kisei fired his rifle. A striker was shot down even without him aiming but the other strikers immediately took cover. ¡°Th, this is so troublesome¡­¡­¡± If they try to rush him then he can handle them however he wants. However, if they are being so careful like this, even Kisei will not be able to consecutively shoot them down. While he was pondering what to do, a striker with anti-ship equipment broke through. ¡°Nn!?¡± Normally, he would be able to shoot it down without breaking a sweat but this time, he has trouble aiming due to his fever. Meanwhile, a fierce suppressing fire came at him and he had to prioritize evading. ¡°Th, this is bad¡­¡­¡± Seeing [Jetta] that got through is moving farther and farther away from him, Kisei¡¯s expression stiffened. Since they are piloting the same model of striker, it is difficult to catch up when they take distance. At this rate, the fleet will be in danger. Then, Kisei¡¯s face turned blue. ¡°You noticed huh.¡± A thick crimson beam poured down from the sky accompanied by the frosty emotionless voice. The [Jetta] that was approaching the fleet with its anti-ship grenade launcher was shot down to the sea surface. The seawater evaporated from the beam¡¯s impact and the nearby area was covered in white mist. ¡°The method to avoid fighting the [Wicked Star].¡± Another beam shot through another [Jetta]. The Noredian soldiers were confused and tried to search for their enemy but they could find nothing on the radar. ¡°I¡¯m an idiot so it took me some time but.¡± The third and fourth shots continue to rain down and the Noredian strikers are being shot down one by one. ¡°If I don¡¯t want to fight the [Wicked Star], I just have to join his side¡­¡­¡­..¡± Kisei silently looked up at the sky. There, a purple striker was holding a long barrel blaster cannon which is twice its height. ¡°L, Liren-sama! Y, You are betraying us¡ª¨C!?¡± Echoed the heartbreaking scream of the Noredian soldiers. CH 134 A Hard Fight, Diaroze 5 ¡°Wh, What!? Liren turned on us? The attacking team is routing? Quit fooling around!!¡± Diaroze was furious. The reports from her subordinates made her want to just cover her ears. When Liren started shooting down her allies all of a sudden, the attacking team was driven into chaos and is now being pushed back by the combined force of the Valentina faction and the Calencian army. With how chaotic it is, although the exact damage to the attacking team is still unknown, it is clear that a considerable number of Noredian strikers have been shot down. ¡°Wahahahaha! That¡¯s what you get!¡± Valentina laughs when she receives a similar report. She felt chill when Diaroze told her that a separate unit is attacking her fleet but in the end, there¡¯s nothing to worry about at all. ¡°It seems that you¡¯ve already lost your rein over your subordinates huh! How about you just give up and quit being a general now, my dear sister?¡± ¡°MMMMmmmmmmMmm!!¡± Diaroze¡¯s face turned bright red at Valentina¡¯s provocation. However, with Liren switching sides because she doesn¡¯t want to fight Kisei, the actual situation is not that far from what Valentina described. ¡°Still, STILL! Even if they fail to take down your fleet, I will still win if I can get rid of you!¡± Turning her anger into power, Diaroze stepped on the foot pedal. The [Zentis] immediately accelerated. Despite her rage, Diaroze¡¯s movement is by no means rough. ¡°Mm¡­..Ugh!¡± Valentina manages to avoid the shotgun rounds and Schleer is providing covering fire for her but Diaroze only slowed down a little as she avoided it with minimal movement. ¡°Tsk, she¡¯s good!¡± Although she had displayed disgraceful behaviors in her fight with Kisei, Diaroze¡¯s skills as a pilot are still the real deal. Valentina may think that they have the upper hand due to their superior number but Schleer still thinks of Diaroze as an opponent that she can¡¯t let down her guard against. ¡°If only I have my [Ortho Kratzer]¡­¡­!¡± ¡°Hahaha, what¡¯s wrong! You are getting slow, little sister!¡± Diaroze mocked Valentina who is desperately avoiding the shots from her shotgun and stealthily lash her electric whip at her. Sparks ran on the armor from the impact of the whip. ¡°Guh!¡± Valentina let out a small scream at the high-voltage current that assaulted her body. Meanwhile, beads of cold sweats are forming on Schleer¡¯s forehead as she tries to widen the distance between the two¡­¡­ ¡°I might hit her too at this distance¡­¡­.damn it!¡± The [Mistilteinn] is a Zenith that boasts high firepower so if an ordinary [Jetta] was to get caught in its line of fire, the result would be quite ugly. Giving up on providing covering fire, Schleer took out her photon saber with the left hand and immediately plunges toward the [Zentis]. ¡°Hah! You think I wouldn¡¯t see you!¡± ¡°Wha!?¡± Diaroze avoided her thrust. At the moment they passed each other, a hail of shotgun shells rained down on the missile pods on the [Mistilteinn]¡¯s waist, causing a small explosion. ¡°Tsk.¡± Valentina grits her teeth and fired her blaster at Diaroze but Diaroze simply blew her thruster and flew away. ¡°Kukuku¡­¡­.a desperate attack like that will never land on me!¡± Diaroze¡¯s smile deepened at the [Jetta] that lost its posture due to the forceful shooting stance. Immediately after, the muzzle of the shotgun was pointed back at Valentina. With a like squeeze on her control stick, the shotgun fired with a high-pitched gunshot. Valentina¡¯s [Jetta] was hit directly in the front and its sensor and front armor were torn apart. ¡°Guuh!?¡± With the warning sound blaring inside her cockpit, Valentina pulled her control stick but it was too late. Diaroze stepped on the pedal again and charged at her while pulling out her longsword. Valentina couldn¡¯t move out of the way in time and the tip of Diaroze¡¯s long sword pierced the [Jetta]¡¯s engine. ¡°Uwahhh!¡± ¡°Hmph, now go reflect on what you¡¯ve done at the bottom of the ocean for a while!¡± Saying so, Diaroze kicked off the crimson armor of Valentina¡¯s [Jetta], sending it crashing down on the surface of the sea with its engine oil spewing out from its belly. The [Jetta] started to sink with bubbles forming around it but the depth of water here is quite shallow so it should not be a problem to recover her later. ¡°D, Damn you¡­¡­!¡± While glancing at the sinking Valentina, cold sweat trails down Schleer¡¯s face. It is certainly refreshing to see Valentina get shot down but against a strong enemy like Diaroze, it¡¯s troublesome to have her ally drop out of the fight. ¡°Don¡¯t worry, you will be going down the same way soon!¡± ¡°I can not afford to get shot down by the same opponent twice okay!¡± Shouting back, Schleer glanced at her available weapons. Although it was hit by the shotgun, the missile pods on the waist are still functional. The shotgun can cover a wide range but it seems that it doesn¡¯t have that much penetrating power. After a moment of indecision, Schleer operates the touch panel on her console. [[Armor system, Ready to Purge]] While listening to the AI¡¯s voice, Schleer stepped on the pedal and accelerated toward the [Zentis] which was calmly standing still waiting for her. ¡°So you are coming at me huh, this is going to be fun!¡± ¡°Even if I take a distance, you would be able to catch up immediately anyway right!¡± The difference in mobility between the [Mistilteinn] and [Zentis] is clear cut. Even if she retreated back at full-speed, Diaroze would catch up in no time. With that being the case, it would be better if she engages her up close from the beginning. ¡°You got guts!¡± With a grin, Diaroze was ready to intercept her charge. She mercilessly fired her automatic shotgun at the [Mistilteinn] which was flying straight toward her but Schleer did not take any evasive action. ¡°Hou, relying on your armor now huh!¡± The shotgun shells blew away the [Mistilteinn]¡¯s main camera and blaster cannon on its shoulder but there was no fatal damage and its speed did not slow down. ¡°But, you seem to forget that the shotgun is not my only weapon huh!¡± However, there¡¯s a lot of ways to intercept an opponent who¡¯s just straightforwardly charging at her. With a carefree attitude, Diaroze fired a net from the launcher on the shoulder. A large net unfolds and flies toward the [Mistilteinn]. ¡°Obviously not, I¡¯m not that forgetful you know!¡± But Schleer greeted the net that was flying toward her with a ferocious smile. With a hit to the touch panel on the sub-monitor, the reverse thrust was fully activated. Schleer clenched her teeth at the intense G that assaulted her body. ¡°Ughh¡­..!¡± Several small sparks scattered all over the [Mistilteinn]. The extra armor equipped on it began to shred away from the retreating [Mistilteinn]. As though it was a ninja¡¯s body replacement technique, the net that should have had caught the [Mistilteinn] instead was catching the pieces of extra armor it abandoned. ¡°Wh, what!? Is that even allowed?¡± The [Mistilteinn] which is now lighter and quicker approached the upset Diaroze. With the main camera destroyed, Schleer opened her cockpit hatch to get a clear view of her opponent. ¡°With this¡­.. you¡¯re finished!¡± An electromagnetic slash using the Zweihander was unleashed from the [Mistilteinn]¡¯s shoulder-mounted shield, cutting into the [Zentis] at its middle section. ¡°Im, impossible!¡± Although the [Zenti]s was not completely bisected, the damage was fatal enough. Just like her sister earlier, the [Zentis] crashed into the sea with black smoke rising from its body. TLN: Gotta admit, that was very anime¡­¡­ CH 135 The Captive Princess The Noredian which lost its general quickly collapsed. Due to the coup, the morale was already low so no one chose to continue to battle. However, most of them were still alive after the battle. Even after a full day after the battle, the Calencian soldiers and MPs are still busily processing the disarmament of the Noredian¡¯s large army. ¡°I mean, I didn¡¯t know what would happen but¡­¡­I¡¯m seriously glad that we somehow got through it.¡± Kisei said with a bitter smile. He¡¯s currently in the lounge for senior officers. As expected, he doesn¡¯t have any role to play in the disarmament process so he¡¯s relaxing right now. ¡°Well, yeah. I got super worried when you got captured though¡­¡­.¡± Saki on the other hand only tiredly responded in a sloppy appearance. At the moment almost all Noredian troops in the territory under the Calencian army control are surrendering that¡¯s why they technically have a truce going on right now. It¡¯s been fierce battle after fierce battle every day until now so it can¡¯t be helped if she seemed dispirited today. ¡°I hope we can end the war with this though.¡± ¡°I wonder about that. It seems that the envoy was already sent over to their side for peace negotiation but¡­¡­.that¡¯s all.¡± Almost at the same moment Saki responded with a shrug, the lounge door suddenly opened without a knock. When the two turned their eyes at the door in surprise, they found Valentina in a pure white Calencian military uniform there. It was difficult to distinguish between Noredian soldiers under Diaroze and Valentina¡¯s command so the soldiers following Valentina were temporarily transferred to the Calencian army. ¡°I don¡¯t think peace will happen so easily. After being beaten like this, my country would not just admit defeat. At the very least, you should be prepared for another big battle.¡± ¡°You heard that huh¡­¡­.¡± Saki sternly looks at Valentina who said that immediately after she walked into the room. Then she straightens her back and cautiously asks Valentina a question. ¡°So, what do you want.¡± It was Valentina and Schleer who called Kisei to this room. With Saki being Saki, she doesn¡¯t want to hold herself up inside a room like this. She would rather relax on the deck with the warm ray of the sun¡­¡­¡­.. ¡°I didn¡¯t specifically call you here though?¡± ¡°Don¡¯t be stupid, what would this guy do if you guys plan something devious? He obviously needs someone to look out for him.¡± ¡°Myself aside, you don¡¯t hold back even against your own princess huh¡­¡­¡± Valentina grumbled and shrugged before glancing at Kisei. ¡°Well, let¡¯s get to the main subject. There is someone I want you to meet, My Love.¡± ¡°Nn?¡± Kisei thought about it a little and his expression immediately turned to a serious one. Since he can kinda guess who it is, there¡¯s no helping it. ¡°¡­..Hmm, well, come on in.¡± Saying so, Valentina walked away from the door. A moment later, Schleer, who has an awkward expression entered the room with Diaroze who¡¯s in handcuffs. ¡°Wha!?¡± Saki¡¯s eyes widened in surprise at their unexpected guest but before she could say anything, Diaroze screamed as she laid her eyes on Kisei. ¡°Y, Y, Y, You are still alive after all! Kisei!¡± ¡°Eh, wh, what? You thought I¡¯m dead?¡± At that unexpected words, Kisei stood up from his chair and questioned her. On the other hand, Valentina happily smiled at the question. ¡°Hahahahahaha¡­¡­I thought that I should upset her a little before the fight began, you see. It seems that it was quite successful so everything went well.¡± ¡°Y, You¡­¡­¡± Diaroze¡¯s expression looked like she won¡¯t be able to get over this unless she hit her sister once but there¡¯s nothing she can do since her hands are cuffed. On her side, Schleer let out a deep sigh. ¡°We were lucky that we managed to catch her alive, I mean I was lucky. Yes, I caught her myself. I thought that I should get her back for the disgrace she caused me.¡± Schleer emphasized her achievement. Meanwhile, Valentina who got shot down by Diaroze pouted. ¡°If I had my [Ortho Kratzer] back then I would have won. In the first palace, the repair couldn¡¯t finish in time because you damaged it so badly.¡± ¡°Hmph¡­..result is everything in the end.¡± Schleer waves Valentina¡¯s argument off with a triumphant smile. ¡°D, Don¡¯t tell me, you went out of your way to pull me up from the sea yourself because of that stupid reason? Well, I¡¯m grateful that I can see Kisei¡¯s face though.¡± Diaroze let out a tired sigh and glanced at Kisei. When she confirmed that his eyes were void of fear and disgust, she was extremely relieved. ¡°No way! Obviously, that¡¯s not the reason. The main reason I pulled you up was for Kisei-san to decide your treatment.¡± However, Schleer¡¯s words were unexpected. Then she stared straight at Kisei with a serious expression. ¡°T, treatment.¡± Kisei gulped. At the same time, Diaroze¡¯s expression stiffened. She couldn¡¯t afford to think about it until now because of the matter with Kisei and the humiliation from getting caught but considering the evil deeds of the Noredian army so far, there¡¯s no way that Diaroze who¡¯s the general can escape responsibility. ¡°To be frank, if we leave things as they are, this woman will surely receive a death sentence.¡± ¡°D, Death sentence¡­..!?¡± When Schleer casually said that, Diaroze felt like her head got hit by a hammer. CH 136 Pleading for Life ¡°I mean, that¡¯s a given right? You were the one who gave the order to perform purge bombing on civilians, weren¡¯t you? You can¡¯t possibly escape your responsibility for that.¡± Schleer said that like it¡¯s a matter of course to Diaroze who was shocked by the words death penalty. Public opinions are also at play here. If Schleer chooses to let a person responsible for such a gave crime go then the target of the people¡¯s hatred would shift to Schleer and the Calencian upper echelon and their nation would be viewed as weak. ¡°Ugh, but that was actually¡­..no.¡± Diaroze, whose face immediately paled, muttered something but she stopped herself and shook her head from side to side. Seeing her like that, Kisei groans. ¡°What? You brought her all the way here just for this?¡± Kisei said in a blaming tone which is unusual for him but Schleer only lightly smiles and shrugs in response. ¡°Of course not!¡± She then walked up to Kisei with a cheerful smile that doesn¡¯t suit the heavy topic they are discussing and gently placed her hand on him. ¡°Kisei-san is one of the greatest contributors in this war and I caused you a great deal of trouble due to my failure so I came up with something to make up for that.¡± ¡°¡­¡­.I see?¡± Seeing Kisei cross his arms with a difficult expression, Saki¡¯s brows furrowed. ¡°You are not planning to push the trouble on Kisei again are you.¡± ¡°I guess you could say that huh.¡± It was Valentina who replied. She has a tired smile and lets out a small sigh. Then, she wears her usual frivolous expression again. ¡°But this was a decision that I and Schleer had a lot of discussions on. Anyway, I want you to stay quiet and listen until the end.¡± ¡°Hmph¡­¡­.¡± Saki snorted and turned away. Well, Valentina aside, it¡¯s not like she can not put some trust in Schleer. If she listens, it wouldn¡¯t be too late to complain to her later. ¡°Well, it¡¯s simple really. To put it briefly, we only want to hear Kisei-san¡¯s opinion on how we should deal with Diaroze here. It was thanks to you that we managed to capture this woman after all¡­¡­.you should have at least that much say in this matter.¡± ¡°It was actually ¡®us¡¯ who caught her though.¡± Schleer glared at Valentina who said something unnecessary. On the other hand, without minding the two, Diaroze gazes at Kisei with the eyes of a scared puppy. ¡°From what I heard, you were put through a great deal of trouble by this woman, right? If you want to shoot her yourself at the execution then we should be able to accommodate that you know.¡± Schleer put on an evil grin and placed her hand on Diaroze¡¯s arm. Diaroze¡¯s body shook in surprise and blood drained from her face. ¡°N, Nn, so that¡¯s it huh¡­¡­¡± Naturally, Kisei understood that Schleer was only joking. Schleer is well aware that Kisei hates death on a personal level. If she intends to give out the death penalty no matter what then she wouldn¡¯t have brought Diaroze here. Her temper can go out of control sometimes but it¡¯s not like she¡¯s the type of person that takes joy in abusing someone she has already beaten. ¡°Still, Uunnn¡­¡­¡± Of course, Kisei doesn¡¯t want Diaroze to die. He¡¯s certainly had been put through a painful experience by her but it¡¯s something on the level that he can laugh it off and forgive her. The whip she used was a toy-like one that didn¡¯t even hurt him and when he thought that she was going to assault him, she took off his restraints and just self-destructed. If she is willing to apologize properly then he doesn¡¯t mind treating it as water under the bridge. However, that was only what she¡¯s done to Kisei personally. It is undeniable that Diaroze was in charge of the Noredian army invading Calencia and it was true that she is directly responsible for its inhumane operations. Now he¡¯s worried that he might be too lenient because he¡¯s using his own experiences to judge her. ¡°¡­.Umm.¡± After pondering on it for a while, Kisei called out to Diaroze who¡¯s looking at him with teary eyes. ¡°Wh, what¡­¡­I mean, what is it.¡± Diaroze, who replied in her usual overbearing tone, immediately corrected herself. As expected, even someone like her can¡¯t possibly keep up the arrogant act in this kind of situation. ¡°I want to clearly confirm this first. You absolutely do not want to die right?¡± ¡°O, obviously!¡­¡­..I mean, of course.¡± Diaroze desperately shook her head sideways. ¡°If you don¡¯t want to die then I think that there¡¯s a certain kind of attitude that would be appropriate for this though?¡± ¡°¡­.!?¡± As though she received a shock, the teary eye Diaroze stopped breathing for a moment. She then alternately looks at Kisei, Valentina, and Schleer. After a moment, she grits her teeth and slowly crouches down with her face bright red. No one knows if it was fear or humiliation but Diaroze grinds her head on the floor while making hiccup-like voices. It¡¯s the classic dogeza pose. ¡°I¡¯m, I¡¯m sorry¡­¡­¡­it was all my fault. I¡¯m so sorry¡­¡­.please, please forgive me¡­¡­..¡± It was a splendid and pathetic figure of someone pleading for their life. Her figure looked so pathetic that even a hundred years of passionate love would turn cold in an instant but Kisei stroked his chest in relief. If she had said something like [I will give you as much money as you want so help me!] or [Why do you fool get to decide my fate! The one who¡¯s going to die here is you!] or the like, it would be difficult for Kisei to save her. The point here is that Diaroze has apologized for all she¡¯s done. Schleer said that she only wanted Kisei¡¯s opinion here so it might be the case where Diaroze will be tried no matter what he says. If he wants to save her then he needs her to save herself. And the most important thing she needs for that is the correct attitude. ¡°¡­¡­¡­.¡± Kisei tightened his expression and stood next to Diaroze who¡¯s still in the middle of a dogeza. ¡°O, Oi¡­¡­..¡± Although Saki tried to call out, Kisei¡¯s already bent his knees and lowered his head. ¡°I think that it would be a waste to just kill this person. Please, will you spare her life?¡± Hearing that, Schleer nodded as though that¡¯s what she wanted to hear all along. ¡°I see. Understood, I will see what I can do.¡± CH 137 Reason for Sparing That night, Kisei was walking in the corridor of the [Radiant] accompanied by Schleer. The corridor is being illuminated only by a faint light and there¡¯s pretty much no one around. While rubbing his eyes, Kisei stretched to get rid of his drowsiness. ¡°Ahh, seriously¡­¡­..even though I didn¡¯t go out and fight, it¡¯s still so tiring today.¡± Of course, this is due to the matter with Diaroze. Since it was a life or death discussion, it¡¯s natural that he would get mentally tired by it. ¡°I¡¯m sorry for the trouble.¡± Understanding him, Schleer apologizes with a bitter smile. As the highest-ranking commanding officer, she has many more headache-inducing matters to deal with compared to Kisei. Whether it¡¯s about the case with Diaroze or the disarmament of the Noredian army, she must have a lot on her plate¡­¡­.. ¡°That being said, if things keep going like this she won¡¯t be able to avoid the death penalty. There are steps we have to take to do this.¡± ¡°That person is the successor to the Noredian throne though¡­¡­..do you really have to execute her? Personally, I think that it would be better to give her back for some kind of ransom though.¡± The Nored empire would not stay quiet if they simply kill off their next empress. If the war intensifies, the number of casualties will surely increase. For Kisei, executing Diaroze outright doesn¡¯t seem to be a wise choice. ¡°Still, it¡¯s true that many people have died because of her. Someone needs to take responsibility. If Calencia can not give its people an outlet for their dissatisfaction, their hatred will be directed toward me and my family¡­¡­the Henrietta house instead. That is something that I absolutely have to avoid.¡± ¡°So it¡¯s a problem on the emotional level huh¡­¡­.that¡¯s going to be difficult.¡± Kisei groaned with his arms crossed. Certainly, talking about benefits or demerits would not convince the grudgeful families of the victims. ¡°But Schleer,¡­¡­¡­you also don¡¯t want Diaroze to die right?¡± He knows that if he adds honorifics when referring to Diaroze Schleer would be in a bad mood so he dropped it. ¡°Well, yes.¡± Schleer answers with a light smile. If it was the other way around, she wouldn¡¯t have brought Diaroze to Kisei earlier. ¡°I shouldn¡¯t say this but I¡¯m surprised you are willing to save someone who took you hostage you know.¡± Saying so, Kisei also realized that it¡¯s a strange thing to say coming from someone who almost got assaulted by the person in question. Schleer is probably thinking that very same thing. On the other hand, Schleer¡¯s face turned red as she remembered how she was taken hostage and the disgraceful appearance she showed him back then. ¡°That¡¯s¡­¡­certainly true but, it¡¯s still better to keep her alive. Besides, Kisei-san wanted to save her even though you are one of her direct victims. Even if I wanted to, I wouldn¡¯t forcefully push for her execution, you know.¡± ¡°¡­¡­is that so.¡± Hearing that, Kisei gently smiles. For the time being, he¡¯s glad that Schleer is willing to help Diaroze. ¡°Well, even if you called me a victim, there was practically no harm done though. She only made me go along with her SM play after all.¡± ¡°Eh, SM play!?¡± At that sudden utterance of such obscene words, Schleer did a spit take. She had to hold down her chest since her heart was beating out of control but her following question was uttered with a complex expression that is a mix between jealousy and curiosity. ¡°W, what kind of play is that exactly?¡± ¡°W, well.¡± Kisei also felt embarrassed to talk about it. When he blushed and acted hesitant to continue, Schleer approached and pressed him for an answer. ¡°Pl, please tell me! It¡¯s important!¡± ¡®What¡¯s so important about that?¡¯ Kisei¡¯s mouth cramped up. ¡°How do I say this, I was tied to a strange bed and she beat me with a toy whip¡­¡­¡­¡± ¡°A, As I thought, that woman really has such a hobby after all¡­¡­..!?¡± Schleer groaned while recalling that Diaroze certainly gives off a queen-like atmosphere. However, her half-crying figure while doing a dogeza today doesn¡¯t exhibit that kind of dignity at all. ¡°No, I mean¡­¡­it didn¡¯t really suit me. In the end, it doesn¡¯t seem like she knows what she wanted to do either.¡± Kisei still doesn¡¯t understand why Diaroze released the restraints back then. However, he somehow gets the feeling that being a queen doesn¡¯t really suit Diaroze. ¡°She looked strangely confused back then too¡­¡­well, that gave Valentina the chance to save me though.¡± ¡°So that¡¯s the reason why you¡¯re so sympathetic to her even though she tried to hurt you¡­¡­¡­.it seems she¡¯s not as dangerous a person as I thought.¡± Schleer heard from Valentina that she rescued Kisei before Diaroze could go through with him¡­¡­..still, she didn¡¯t hear what happened exactly in detail. Hearing this, Schleer kind of understood what happened and sighs. ¡°Rather, I think she¡¯s quite an interesting person you know.¡± ¡°Muh¡­¡­.¡± That¡¯s not what she wanted to hear though. Schleer lightly pouted and furrowed her eyebrows. ¡°Anyway, it¡¯s too wasteful to kill someone who actually managed to corner me that far. Whatever her personality may be like¡­¡­.¡± In the end, Kisei¡¯s thought process is simple. It¡¯s wasteful to let a good enemy die. Knowing how he is, Schleer sighs at his battle maniac mentality. ¡°Well, that¡¯s fine¡­¡­.¡± Giving up on him, Schleer muttered that with a bitter smile and stopped her feet. It¡¯s true that she doesn¡¯t plan to say anything more about his personality but the reason she stopped walking is that they have already reached their destination. In front of them was a sturdy iron double door with several guards standing in front of it. ¡°We¡¯ve arrived. That woman is being held here.¡± The reason why Kisei went out in the middle of the night today¡­¡­¡­.is to meet with Diaroze here. TLN: Next up, Diaroze¡¯s redemption? CH 138 Diaroze¡¯s Confession Kisei¡¯s request was to have a one on one meeting with Diaroze. With how she is, he thought that his request would be turned down immediately but contrary to his expectation, Schleer granted him permission without any protesting. That being said, he is still a little nervous to walk into the room alone like this. The simple and dreary room only has a few sets of small tables and chairs inside. Most likely, it is designed for the sole purpose of prisoner visitation. Now, Diaroze was sitting in the chair directly across from Kisei. ¡°Seriously¡­¡­I never thought that you would come to see me you know.¡± Diaroze said with a bitter smile. Her hands and legs are locked together with cuffs made of special alloys making her unable to move properly. Perhaps it was embarrassing for her to let him see her like this, Diaroze seems to be blushing a little. The strict restraint here is only a temporary measure that was in place for Kisei¡¯s visit. After all, it would be a rather grave situation if he was to be taken hostage. ¡°I have a lot of things I want to ask you personally¡­¡­that being said, those restraints are rather excessive. Are you okay?¡± (TLN: Kisei is still using some polite tone here) Seeing her being restrained to the point that it would restrict her from making simple movements, Kisei asked how she¡¯s doing without thinking. He knows that it is for his own safety but he still can¡¯t help but wonder if they are overdoing it here. ¡°N, No, it¡¯s alright. It¡¯s not that bad. Don¡¯t mind me.¡± Diaroze replied. In truth, she¡¯s already resigned herself from the fact that she is quite thrilled by this sort of situation. ¡°More importantly, I am no longer in the sort of position that would require you to be so polite. Just speak like how you normally would.¡± ¡°Y, Yeah¡­¡­.sure.¡± She¡¯s the third person who said that to him recently. Already used to it, Kisei sighed and gave her a small nod. ¡°Seriously, how laughable. To think that our positions have been reversed like this.¡± While saying such a self-deprecating thing, the smile on her face was quite intense. But still, it hasn¡¯t been even a week since Kisei was her captive. ¡°You are saying that but you never have any intention to kill me right? But, this time¡­¡­..¡± ¡°Can we not talk about that? Honestly, just thinking about it already made me anxious.¡± Diaroze said that and turned away with a clouded expression. From what Schleer said, it seems that they are proceeding in the direction of sparing her life but there are still no specific details yet. With her unable to predict what kind of punishment will be given to her, it can¡¯t be helped that she feels uneasy. ¡°B, Besides¡­¡­it¡¯s true that I never intended to take your life but I certainly have done a lot of terrible things to you, didn¡¯t I¡­¡­¡­I do feel sorry about it¡­¡­I¡¯m so sorry¡­¡­.¡± Returning her gaze to Kisei, Diaroze deeply lowered her head. It doesn¡¯t look like she apologized because she wanted to save herself. Rather, she appeared to be truly sorry. ¡°Since you apologized, I will forgive you. It¡¯s not like I got hurt or anything too.¡± Seeing this unusual appearance of hers, Kisei lightly smiled and waved his hands. It¡¯s true that he was a little scared but well, it¡¯s not every day you can experience such a thing after all. ¡°I¡¯m sorry, I¡¯m so sorry¡­¡­thank you.¡± Diarzoe apologized in tears. She had always been thinking about what she had done and was worried what to do if he wouldn¡¯t forgive her. It has been eating at her. ¡°By the way, there¡¯s one thing that¡¯s on my mind¡­¡­¡­.no, to be honest, I came here tonight to ask you about it.¡± ¡°¡­¡­what is it?¡± ¡°Why did you release me back then? At the time, you didn¡¯t have any reason to take out my restraint right?¡± Kisei was rescued unharmed because Diaroze took off the restraints at a strange timing. It was clear that it was no accident and it has been on Kisei¡¯s mind since then. Hearing the question, Diaroze¡¯s cheeks blushed like an apple. After growling to herself for a while like a puppy, she nervously opens her mouth. ¡°A, About that¡­¡­well¡­¡­I realized that being one doing it didn¡¯t suit my hobby so without thinking I¡­¡­¡­.¡± ¡°H, Hobby?¡± Hearing a stranger reply than he expected, Kisei cocked his head. On the other hand, Diaroze¡¯s bright red face is dripping with sweat. Still, somehow she seems quite happy. ¡°I, I¡¯d always thought that¡­¡­.I like hitting people with a whip or abusing them with my words but¡­¡­.apparently, it¡¯s the other way around.¡± ¡°The other way around.¡± Kisei, who was so confused by her answer, can only repeat her words like a parrot. Meanwhile, Diaroze continues while repeatedly sneaking a glance at him. ¡°It was actually me who wanted to be abused¡­¡­¡­.at that time, I wanted you to push me down and mess me up¡­¡­¡± ¡°E, Ehh¡­¡­¡­..¡± ¡°Being pushed down and messed up by a man, my image as an Imperial Princess would crumble to dust. Besides, it was in front of my own little sister, there¡¯s no way that I wouldn¡¯t get excited right! RIGHT!¡± Diaroze, who suddenly began to heatedly speak about her hobby, started squirming around in her restraints. Somehow, it looked quite dangerous to him so involuntarily retreated a step back. ¡°Since it¡¯s come to this I will just confess, I am a so-called masochist¡­¡­..! Even right now, I¡¯m actually excited to be seen in such a pitiful figure like this¡­¡­!¡± At that terrible confession, a bead of cold sweat dripped down Kisei¡¯s forehead. ¡°Yes, that¡¯s it, that¡¯s the face¡­¡­..I¡¯m so excited¡­¡­..!¡± ¡°Can you calm down a little!?¡± ¡°Sorry, sorry¡­¡­.I¡¯m sorry for being like this¡­¡­.Ahh, more, look at me more with those cold eyes!¡± ¡°Don¡¯t get any more excited, I¡¯m begging you.¡± Her ecstatic expression is quite seductive but they can¡¯t continue the talk if she¡¯s like this and Kisei¡¯s begging her to calm down. ¡°That¡¯s impossi¨C¡­¡­th, that¡¯s right, can you give me a punch! If you do that I might be able to calm down!¡± ¡°WHY!? WHY ARE YOU LIKE THIS!?¡± ¡°HIT ME! COME ON! QUICKLY! QUICKLY!¡± Diaroze¡¯s excited expression was full of anticipation. Annoyed, Kisei quickly stood up and did a hand chop on Diaroze¡¯s head. ¡°Afyu!¡± He was certain that he put almost his full power into it but Diaroze only excitedly breathed out like that was the peak of her ecstasy. CH 139 Diaroze¡¯s Confession/ Take Two ¡°S, Sorry, I showed you something unsightly.¡± ¡°Seriously¡­.¡± Kisei narrowed his eyes and swore. Seeing his expression, Diaroze blushed and showed him an embarrassed smile. ¡°No, but¡­¡­it felt strangely uplifting you know. Being seen in such an embarrassing appearance like this, normally, the humiliation alone would kill me already.¡± ¡°Well, you must have been under a lot of stress and pressure so it might be good for you to let out some steam once in a while.¡± Given her current situation, he couldn¡¯t bring himself to talk harshly to her. Rather, since she was told that she might be given a death sentence today, it can¡¯t be helped that she is acting a little crazy. ¡°Is that so. Yeah¡­¡­.I guess that¡¯s the case.¡± Diaroze repeatedly nods to herself before taking a few deep breaths and looks Kisei straight in the eyes. ¡°Then there¡¯s another one of my embarrassing sides that I want you to know.¡± ¡°There¡¯s more¡­¡­?¡± Kisei moaned with a dejected expression. ¡°You fool, this time it¡¯s not about my fetish¡­¡­.!¡± When Diaroze¡¯s eyes lit up like she got a little angry, Kisei smiled apologetically. ¡°Well, how do I say this! ¡­¡­.I LOVE YOU, HOKUTO KISEI!¡± Kisei broke out into an uncontrollable coughing fit. It¡¯s the second time he got taken by surprise but in a way, this is more shocking than her earlier confession. ¡°Cough cough!¡­¡­th, that¡¯s so sudden.¡± ¡°Ah,¡­¡­I, I don¡¯t need to hear you reply okay! Even I know that you don¡¯t think of me that way. Still, being turned down would give me a shock too!¡± ¡°S, Sure¡­¡­¡± Seeing her arrogant manner of speech returned, Kisei can¡¯t help but smile. Then after thinking to himself for a moment, he walks up to Diaroze with a mischievous smile. ¡°Since you tell me that you don¡¯t need a reply, I shouldn¡¯t tell you how I feel. But I can just tell you anyway right?¡± ¡°W, What?¡± Diaroze nervously listened. He brought his face close to her so that their noses could touch. At that distance, Diaroze¡¯s heart jumped and her body started to quiver. ¡°As a person, I do like you too you know.¡± ¡°Wha!?¡± Diaroze, who was subjected to that mental counterattack, started making a strange noise. After withdrawing his face with a smile, he deliberately walks behind her with audible footsteps. Being in restraints, Diaroze couldn¡¯t turn around and could only wait in anticipation of what Kisei is going to say next. ¡°Above all, you are strong! You did beat me once after all!¡± ¡°N, no,¡­..that was¡­¡­.because I used a hostage¡­¡­.¡± Involuntarily, Diaroze¡¯s voice started to shake. It was her choice to take Schleer hostage but she is still sensible enough to feel some shame from her action. ¡°At that time you managed to take Schleer down because I couldn¡¯t support her in time. I can¡¯t blame you for taking advantage of that. Besides¡­¡­.¡± ¡°Besides?¡± Kisei brought his mouth close to Diaroze¡¯s ear. Then he does what Valentina once did to him. ¡°Valentina told me about something you see.¡± ¡°Fuhya! W, what is it!? What did she say!?¡± While happy about how he is whispering into her ear, Diaroze made a weird noise when her sister¡¯s name was mentioned in this kind of situation. Thinking that she is surprisingly fun to tease, Kisei unintentionally smiled. He was at Valentina¡¯s mercy back then but when he is the one doing it, it is quite fun. The little sister¡¯s sin must be atoned by the elder sister, Kisei is having that evil thought. ¡°She said Diaroze doesn¡¯t have any qualms resorting to cowardly means and that I might be targeted when I¡¯m not piloting a striker¡­¡­.she told me this way before we had a skirmish in this system you know.¡± ¡°S, she got into contact with you without me knowing!? R, rather, do I really look like that in her eyes!?¡± Diaroze was both shocked and confused. She did various things on the battlefield but she never thought that her own little sister would think of her as the incarnation of evil. Seeing that, Kisei tightened his mouth since he realized that it was a failure. It¡¯s not like he wanted to break off Diaroze¡¯s relationship with Valentina. He only wanted to cheer up Diaroze here. Thinking to himself a little, he gently breathed into Diaroze¡¯s wolf ear. ¡°A, a, Aah!¡± The dejected Diaroze immediately got excited by the surprise attack. ¡°Well, I don¡¯t care about that anymore though. In the end, no one came after me after all.¡± ¡°Of, Of course!¡± ¡°That¡¯s why I like you, Diaroze¡­¡­..¡± ¡°L, like, like!?¡± Diaroze was about to explode from her overwhelming emotion. However, Kisei was merciless. ¡°Arguably, the battle we fought was on top of the same board. The other things that were outside the board don¡¯t matter to our battle. That¡¯s why I admit that I lost to you.¡± Even though she was so obsessed with defeating Kisei, his words don¡¯t really please Diaroze. After all, (even if there¡¯s no danger to her life), she still prefers to be on the losing side. ¡°I like giving my all in a fight and I also like my opponents to do the same. I really like you because you sent everything you had at me¡­¡­.rather than as a lover, I quite like you because you went along with my hobby though.¡± Kisei added that at the end but since she has already reached the limit of her mental capacity, Diaroze¡¯s mind didn¡¯t register that. All she could do was leak a series of strange voices from her mouth. ¡°I don¡¯t want someone like you to be executed so I will help you. That¡¯s why I want you to cheer up. You understand?¡± ¡°U, Umu, I got it.¡± Diaroze managed to say that much but that¡¯s enough for Kisei. When he made a satisfied smile, Diaroze¡¯s swaying ears and tail suddenly entered his vision. ¡°¡­¡­.a question, if you like pain then what do you think of having your ears nibbled on?¡± ¡°E, Ear nibbling!¡± Diaroze shouted in an excited tone before thinking for a moment and opening her mouth again. ¡°Wh, what do you want! Money? Is it money!? If you are okay with my property then I will give them all to you!¡± ¡°Don¡¯t just bring up money in a situation like this! It¡¯s crude!¡± ¡°S, Sorr¨C!!¡± Unable to apologize in time, Diaroze¡¯s ear was nibbled on. CH 140 Let¡¯s Be Serious Since Diaroze was a mess now, Kisei decided to conclude his visit early. It was a few days later that he paid her a visit again. ¡°W, What. You came. I was worried that you might not visit me anymore you know.¡± Diaroze greeted him while sneaking a glance at his face with a blushed face. The eyes that she looked at him with almost looked like ones that belong to someone looking at their lover. On a side note, she is not restrained so heavily like last time but her hands are still cuffed. ¡°Well, it¡¯s not like I can let him visit you that often right? Do you really understand how dangerous a position you are in right now?¡± Complained Schleer who accompanied Kisei. In addition to Schleer and Kisei, one of the former 4 Heavenlys, Tersis is also here. It¡¯s clear that this will not be a private visit like last time. Naturally, Diaroze can see that as well so she raised her cuffed hands up as if to surrender and make a light smile. ¡°Of course, I understand that. If I do something suspicious then my position will only worsen, right? I won¡¯t do anything of the sort.¡± Diaroze said in a light and cheerful tone unthinkable of someone who recently was groveling while half cryingly begging for her life. Seeing her like that, Schleer let out a bitter sigh. It¡¯s clear that her attitude has changed and it¡¯s obvious that this change came from the person who recently visited her. It would be a lie if she says that she wasn¡¯t curious at all about what he did last time but she was also afraid to hear it so she couldn¡¯t ask him what he did in the end. She suspects that he might have given Diaroze a kiss or two in the last meeting. However, since Kisei is not her lover, she has no right to ask him about something like that. Besides, if he managed to get her spirit up then that is fine in and of itself. Schleer concluded. It¡¯s not like she wanted to keep Diaroze all depressed after all. ¡°Let me warn you first. If you can¡¯t convince the jury at the trial, you will have no choice but to accept the death sentence. Do keep that firmly in mind.¡± However, the thoughts still left her unamused so she decided to nail it down for her. On the other hand, Diaroze¡¯s complexion turned pale and her expression stiffened a bit. ¡°U, Umu. I know¡­¡­¡­.by the way, I¡¯ve heard this from the Imperial intelligence department but it seems that the Calencian royal family doesn¡¯t have that much power over its government and the ministers often ignore the royal family¡¯s opinion¡­¡­¡­¡­so that applied to your court too?¡± ¡°Yes.¡± Hearing about her house¡¯s lack of power, Schleer weakly replied. ¡°Pleading for your life alone will not overturn the decision. You need to somehow convince them that you should be kept alive.¡± ¡°Keeping one influence out of another should be normal concepts in the separation of powers though¡­¡­..?¡± A trial that can be easily influenced by politicians is too scary no matter how you think about it. As a Terran, such a thing is obvious to Kisei but the Vulds who rule the majority of the universe are using a feudal system. That¡¯s why such a concept is foreign to them. The only ones present who understand what he is saying is only the smiling Diaroze while Schleer and Tersis cocked their heads in puzzlement. ¡°Our way is different from that of the Terrans. Umu, but this is certainly troubling¡­¡­I thought that it was going to be okay since a princess-like Schleer-san said that you would save me¡­¡­¡­¡± Unexpectedly called ¡®Schleer-san¡¯, Schleer was extremely surprised. After all, with how Diaroze usually behaves, she¡¯s the last person you would expect to refer to someone else using honorifics. ¡°That¡¯s why we are here today to come up with some measures for the trial.¡± Unable to read the mood, Tersis proceeded the conversation while crossing her arms which in turn put an emphasis on her plump chest. On the other hand, Diaroze¡¯s mouth turned downward as she glared at her. ¡°If that¡¯s the case then I understand why Schleer-san is here. I¡¯m happy that Kisei is here too but why are you here? Fighting aside, since when are you an expert in the judicial system?¡± It¡¯s not that Tersis is dumb but with her being a battle maniac, she¡¯s mostly useless except in battle. That¡¯s why Diaroze asked what she¡¯s doing here. ¡°No, I just followed them here since I happened to spot them walking down the hallway.¡± ¡°Aren¡¯t you too casual about this!? Rather, why are you so free to wander around in a place like this! This is a Calencian ship you know!¡± Even if they are allies for the moment, people who fought on the opposite side of war shouldn¡¯t be able to get along so well. Normally, she should be staying on her own ship but¡­¡­ ¡°Well, how do I say this¡­¡­.before I knew it, Tersis-san just kind of settled here in the [Radiant]¡­¡­¡­she even brought the repaired [Van Wolf] on board without my permission too¡­¡­.¡± ¡°Is my former strongest knight a mouse or something!?¡± Hearing Schleer¡¯s words, Diaroze unintentionally retorted in a loud voice. As usual, she¡¯s quite a free-spirited person. If she keeps silent then she would appear like a fearless beautiful woman though¡­¡­. ¡°W, Well, let¡¯s leave that aside! I brought her here because we might hear something useful from her since she is a high-ranking aristocrat on the Noredian side!¡± ¡°I, I see.¡± For the time being, Diaroze was convinced. This is for them to hear an opinion of a Noredian aristocrat other than Diaroze. ¡°Still, a trial huh. I was so relieved so I took my mind off it but, what do I do¡­¡­..¡± Diaroze groaned while shaking her head. After all, she is extremely unpopular, no matter what she says the result can not be good. ¡°About that, there¡¯s one thing that we need to clear up with you first.¡± It was Kisei who raised his voice. He then stares at Diaroze with a serious expression. ¡°W, What is it?¡± ¡°The purge bombing. Who was the person that ordered it? I think that the most important thing here is to clarify who is responsible for that.¡± ¡°Nn!?¡± Hearing that, Diaroze¡¯s expression immediately turned bitter. CH 141 The Name of the Crime ¡°Well, that is obvious right. Rather, the biggest inhumane act committed by the Noredian army was the purge bombing after all.¡± With her arms crossed, Schleer glared at Diaroze with a stern look. On the receiving end, Diaroze breaks out in cold sweat and averts her eyes away. ¡°If no one takes responsibility for that, the general public will not stay quiet about this right.¡± ¡°I was in the homeland back then¡­¡­¡± Tersis responded to Schleer¡¯s words. She was still in Nored back when the purge bombing took place so she doesn¡¯t know much about it. However, perhaps they wanted to hear Tersis¡¯s opinion on this so they brought her along today. ¡°On the record, it was reported that it was Diaroze who gave the order. Naturally, some people were happy that they could obtain an empty habitable planet at a low cost. However, if we use common sense here, she would immediately get denounced once she returns to her homeland right.¡± ¡°U, Umu, mumumumu¡­¡­¡­¡± Hearing that, Diaroze shut her eyes and started to groan to herself. Even if she managed to win the war and return to her country, she might even lose her position and be jailed like she is now. ¡°Just in case, I¡¯ve cross-examined this matter with your staff but¡­¡­.they all said that the command came directly from you.¡± ¡°That¡¯s obvious¡­¡­¡­¡­.I was the one who gave that order after all¡­¡­..¡± While wiping the cold sweat off her face with a handkerchief, Diaroze sighs. ¡°But.¡± However, as though to defend her, Kisei lightly tapped the armrest of his chair with his finger. ¡°It doesn¡¯t feel right for Diaroze to give an order like that. So far, the strategies that she chose were always ones that minimize the damage to her army. For example, she did come out and act as a decoy for her fleet to retreat, even in the earlier operation, she sent out her back-up unit to protect her main force too right.¡± ¡°Certainly¡­¡­¡± Schleer quietly recalled her past battles with Diaroze while rubbing her chin. If she¡¯s someone who would do anything to win then she wouldn¡¯t resort to such a tactic. ¡°The purge bombing has many advantages but it also has a lot of disadvantages as well. After all, you would be wasting a mountain worth of your ammunition and since such a thing is generally frowned upon, the morale of her troops would be lowered too.¡± In such a colonial invasion, the former inhabitants of the planets are usually forced on board a large transport ship and sent back to their country. Since they are the citizens of their own country, the opponent can¡¯t possibly refuse to accept such refugees. From a purely military point of view, this is the best course of action even if it takes a little more time and effort. ¡°That certainly doesn¡¯t sound right. Doing that would only make your battle more difficult. In other words, there was someone else who made you give that order right.¡± ¡°U, Umu. Umu¡­¡­..there was¡­¡­..¡± ¡°What, it was not your order after all? But, the only one who can order someone who holds the position of the Crown Princess like you would be¡­¡­.¡± ¡°The Empress herself, there¡¯s no one else right.¡± Schleer shrugged as if she could tell that much from the start. However, seeing her like that, Tersis was surprised. ¡°B, But Her Majesty told us that she would personally rebuke Diaroze for that herself once she returned, you know. Why would she punish someone who carried out her own order.¡± ¡°Her Majesty¡­¡­Mother¡­¡­didn¡¯t want to be held responsible for the purge bombing. That¡¯s why she told me to take responsibility for it¡­¡­..that was her order to me.¡± At her wit¡¯s end, Diaroze squeezed out that confession. She truly doesn¡¯t want to say it out loud. ¡°If she gave that order then it shouldn¡¯t be like that right! To take responsibility for your own order is the pride of an aristocrat! If that is true then why did you accept an order like that!¡± ¡°S, Stop that~~!¡± Clearly upset, Tersis grabbed Diaroze¡¯s shoulders and violently shook them. Diaroze¡¯s brain was shaking due to Tersis¡¯s ridiculous strength and she had to beg her to stop. In the end, Kisei hurriedly tapped Tersis¡¯s back and she reluctantly stopped herself. ¡°Well, it¡¯s embarrassing¡­¡­saying it out loud is¡­¡­.¡± ¡°I mean, there¡¯s no use getting embarrassed now right. Just spill it already.¡± ¡°I guess that¡¯s true.¡± Diaroze nodded with a straight face to Kisei who reprimanded her while narrowing his eyes. After showing him such a pathetic figure, she shouldn¡¯t worry about embarrassing herself anymore. ¡°You see, when Mother strongly gives me an order¡­¡­..my body just moves on its own.¡± ¡°Nn!? A, Ahh¨C¡­¡­¡± Hearing that, Kisei let out a long sigh. Perhaps the Empress noticed Diaroze¡¯s masochistic tendency so she used that side of hers to make her obey as her ¡®Master¡¯. A mother that takes advantage of her daughter¡¯s disposition, that¡¯s quite evil. ¡°Did you know something?¡± On the other hand, Schleer who doesn¡¯t know of Diaroze¡¯s fetish asked him while tilting her head. If she was in the same position as Diaroze, even if her mother ordered her to bombard a civilian position, she would definitely refuse. That¡¯s why she is unable to understand why Diaroze chose to follow such an order. ¡°No, how do I say this¡­¡­.¡± Clearly, he can¡¯t just tell her about what happened the other day. After pondering on it for a moment, Kisei continued. ¡°This person you see, she may look strong but¡­¡­.she¡¯s kind of submissive too right.¡± ¡°Muh!¡± Hearing his words, Diaroze¡¯s shoulders jumped and as though it was on reflect, her face started to turn bright red. ¡°Certainly, she did shamelessly grovel before us too¡­¡­¡± ¡°You see, that¡¯s why her mother was able to exploit that weakness of hers.¡± ¡°I see¡­¡­..No, I¡¯m convinced that she¡¯s like that but was Nored really okay with having such a weak-willed person being their next empress?¡± ¡°Even if she¡¯s a little submissive she¡¯s still good at putting on an act and her commanding ability was regarded quite highly too right.¡± ¡°Mugh!!¡± At that second jab, Diaroze threw herself on the table and collapsed. She is lying face down with her face hidden and all they can see is her trembling back. ¡°It seems that she really is that weak-willed.¡± Her action does pique Tersis¡¯s interest but in truth, Diaroze herself is elated at the situation. Of course, Kisei is doing his best to not let the others notice that. Seeing the joyful reaction he expected, Kisei was pleased. Making others happy is a good thing after all. ¡°But that¡¯s also a problem. I reckoned that there was no record of such an order being given. But we need some kind of proof here¡­¡­¡± No matter how hard Diaroze argues that the order originally came from the Empress, as long as she¡¯s the de-facto commander of the Calencian Expedition Fleet, others can simply dismiss her statements as lies to protect herself. From the side that wants to save Diaroze¡¯s life, this hurdle is very hard to overcome. ¡°About that, I guess that we have no choice but to have them take her word for it. In the end, it¡¯s inevitable that your fight with Nored will continue right?¡± Tersis speaks up. She knows that the ceasefire negotiation is not going well. ¡°Yes¡­¡­..well, the Calencian Expedition is only one of the many after all. It¡¯s likely that they are forming a larger fleet to continue their invasion as we speak.¡± In other words, as long as they have enough power to win this war, they are not willing to back down and accept defeat. And sure enough, the Nored empire has the power to win this. ¡°In that case, the commander of the next fleet is definitely going to be Her Majesty herself. [I was forced to give that order by the Empress! I want my revenge so I will lend Calencia a hand!], I guess there¡¯s no other workable narrative¡­¡­..it is a little painful to admit but this woman¡¯s commanding ability is well known even in Calencia. If she promises to give us her full operation then the people might be willing to reluctantly forgive her for her ability.¡± ¡°U, Umu¡­¡­.that¡¯s right, I agree. Let¡¯s go with that. I don¡¯t mind cooperating after all.¡± Seeing Diaroze replying while sneaking a glance at Kisei, Schleer let out a sigh. ¡°Understood¡­¡­Haa, I guess this is it then.¡± With her enemies becoming her allies one after another, Schleer can¡¯t help but hold her temples. Tersis then gently tapped her shoulder to comfort her and spoke to her with a big smile. ¡°Then, this talk is over right? I want to say something myself here too.¡± ¡°Eh, you have something to say?¡± ¡°Of course.¡± ¡°Then please do.¡± Seeing her wholeheartedly nodding in reply, Schleer reluctantly responded. ¡°When we took action, there was a promise that Kisei-dono would reward the person who contributed the most to the course right? I thought that I should collect on that promise now.¡± ¡°Eh.¡± ¡°I can¡¯t say that I am proud of it but I was actually the one who took down the most strikers in the battle the other day. I confirmed with both Valentina and Lady Nora so there¡¯s no mistake.¡± ¡°That was the thing you brought up yourself right! Isn¡¯t this rigged from the start!?¡± Kisei started to panic but Tersis did not back down and continued. ¡°Of course.¡± That¡¯s what she said¡­¡­¡­.. CH 142 Knight ¡°In the first place, what do you even want as a reward? A rematch?¡± Kagayaki asked with a bitter expression after recalling the promised prize for the greatest contributor. Among Vuld, a race that often prioritizes their sexual desire, Tersis is like the equivalent of a gentleman on earth¡­¡­.no, dubbing her a lady might be more accurate here. With that being the case, the reward he expected her to ask is something related to battle since she¡¯s a battle junkie. ¡°No, that¡¯s not it. Even if I challenge you now, it would inevitably result in my defeat¡­¡­¡­.Naturally, I also wish to fight you again but at least personally, I want to have a rematch when I actually stand a chance.¡± ¡°I see.¡± Kisei nodded with his arms crossed. In their previous battle, even when they tried to overwhelm him in a 3-1 battle, he still managed to defeat the 4 Heavenlys. It¡¯s clearer than day how it will turn out if she challenges him alone. ¡°Fortunately, I saw a path to achieve that during our battle. I wouldn¡¯t want you to wait too long after all¡­¡­¡± After repeatedly nodding to herself with a satisfied expression, Tersis continues. ¡°That being said, that is still in the far-off future. What I want to ask of you now is about a different matter.¡± ¡°If your demand is too unreasonable then I will have to prevent him from complying by exercising my right as his employer though.¡± Schleer stepped in front of Kisei with a stern expression as though to shield him. She just managed to get him back so she will not tolerate someone from Nored to take advantage of him anymore. ¡°Well, whatever it is, you should just say spill it out now.¡± On the other hand, Diaroze did not bother her couldn¡¯t care less attitude probably because the topic no longer concerned herself. She¡¯s now waving her hand with her palms open while looking straight at Tersis¡¯s eyes. ¡°Fumu¡­¡­very well.¡± Upon hearing that, Tersis stood up straight and faced Kisei. She then puts her hand on her chest and deeply bowed. ¡°I, Tersis van Melemheim, wish to be your knight.¡± ¡°K, Knight¡­¡­.¡± In Vuld militaristic organizations, such a term would be so common that no one would bat an eye but to Kisei, something like that can not be taken so lightly. Kisei¡¯s expression cramped up a bit. In short, what Tersis is saying is that she wants to serve directly under Kisei. ¡°What, that¡¯s it? It¡¯s fine to just accept it right, Kisei? This woman¡¯s house is powerful and her sword arm is the real deal. You would never think of it as a bother with her being your subordinate.¡± Diaroze irresponsibly added. Schleer tried to protest reflexively but Diaroze beckoned at her with a serious expression. It appears that she wants to tell them something so Schleer reluctantly stopped herself and approaches Diaroze. ¡°She¡¯s one of the strongest swordfighters in Nored. With her so willing to become his personal bodyguard, don¡¯t you think that this is quite a bargain?¡± Diaroze whispers. Since Tersis, who never acted reverently toward her, treated Kisei with so much respect and always referred to him using honorifics, she expected this to happen. ¡°B, But¡­¡­.what would I do if she suddenly started getting attracted to Kisei-san? I don¡¯t think a whole squad of MPs is enough to stop that person you know.¡± ¡°The only things in her brain are chivalry codes and swordsmanship! Even if she started seeing him that way, you would immediately notice it since I¡¯m sure that her approach will be even more naive than yours. I would be troubled if something were to happen to Kisei too. I¡¯ve already taken that into account. I guarantee that she is trustworthy enough to be around him.¡± ¡°I, I see¡­..¡± Since Tersis voluntarily left Diaroze¡¯s command, it is unlikely that she will be able to use Tersis for some evil plan after this. After a little thought, Schleer was convinced and agreed to it. ¡°Kisei-san, this is certainly not a bad deal. I support this.¡± ¡°So you got convinced completely huh.¡± When Kisei tiredly responded, as she looked at Diaroze making a peace sign behind Schleer. Despite being a prisoner it sure seems like she is having a lot of fun though. ¡°I got it, I got it already. I still don¡¯t think anything good can come out of serving a rootless guy like me though.¡± ¡°If I can stand on the same battlefield as you then that is the best reward I can ever ask for.¡± Kisei bitterly smiled at Tersis¡¯s hardcore answer. Perhaps taking that as his consent, Tersis¡¯s expression brightened as she nodded deeply to him. ¡°From now on, I shall act as a blade that wards off any misfortunes that might befall you. I will be in your care, My Lord.¡± ¡°The next battle will be a hard one you know. Besides, I am not that rich so I can¡¯t pay you much salary either.¡± ¡°A fierce battle is exactly what I want. And, of course, I do not wish for a salary either. Rather, if it¡¯s money then please use mine by all means.¡± ¡°In what world does a lord leach off their subordinate though¡­¡­¡­¡± While shaking his head sideways with a bitter expression, Kisei wishes with all his heart that he does not become that pathetic of a person. CH 143 Sentence In the end, Diaroze¡¯s formal trial is going to be held at the courthouse in the capital. Because of that, the [Radiant] was assigned the task of escorting her to the capital as soon as it is done dealing with the POWs. Since they do not have to worry about Noredian ambushes this time, the return trip is much easier for them. After returning to the capital, the officers from the Imperial Justice Bureau immediately escorted Diaroze to the court. Since it is a military trial, only Schleer was allowed to enter the courtroom since she will be the one who defends Diaroze while Kisei and the others have to wait outside. ¡°Phew¡­¡­¡­.¡± In the waiting room of the Calencian Supreme Court, Kisei let out a small sigh. It¡¯s already been a week since the trial started and it has been nerve-wracking for those who could only wait without knowing how the trial is going. ¡°They said that the sentence will be handed out today right. I wonder how it will turn out.¡± Accompanying him, Saki said with a shrug. Perhaps because she is not particularly fond of Diaroze, her expression is one of cynicism. ¡°Still, the sentence is being finalized in only a week [DESU]. Maybe it went as we expected?¡± Instead of Kisei, the one who replied was Nora who is also accompanying him today. She is sitting loosely on the sofa while placing her feet on the table. Even she doesn¡¯t seem to worry much about Diaroze¡¯s fate. ¡°It is still possible that she will be given the death sentence. It¡¯s too early to let your guard down, Lady Nora.¡± Said Tersis who was standing behind Kisei like a statue. Ever since the day she declared that she wishes to be his knight, she has been escorting him like a personal servant. ¡°That sounds scary.¡± ¡°My apology, My Lord. However, we must always assume the worst.¡± Hearing her saying [My Lord] so naturally, Sak and Nora looked at each other. Nora stuck out her tongue while Saki had a small smile as she traced her thumb across her neck. Nora then casually stood up and silently jumped at Tersis. ¡°Hmph, Naive.¡± However, Tersis easily evaded Nora¡¯s assault before grabbing her sleeve and collar to throw her on the floor. Nora screams as she was made to roll away but using the opening Nora deliberately created, Saki moves in. She unsheathes the sword from the scabbard hanging on her waist and takes an upper stance to swing down at Tersis. ¡°Hmph, I admire your enthusiasm but your charge is still lukewarm!¡± The downward swing was blocked by Tersis¡¯s beloved sword. Since it is still in its scabbard, she¡¯s probably only intending to play along. After blocking Saki¡¯s attack, Tersis beautifully performed a kick directly to Saki¡¯s stomach. ¡°Uweh!¡± Saki involuntarily dropped her sword as she crouched down while holding her belly. Meanwhile, Nora, who has recovered before anyone noticed, is gently tapping Saki¡¯s back. ¡°Damn it¡­..you are too strong [DESU].¡± ¡°HaHaHa, if it¡¯s a challenge then you can come at me anytime you want.¡± Kisei stared at the three as if to ask what they are doing in a serious place like a court¡¯s waiting room. In return, Saki and Nora averted their eyes while making a poor attempt at whistling. ¡°If you are bored then you can play a game or read something right.¡± When Kisei was complaining so, the door to the waiting room was knocked. Hearing the knock, Tersis tightened up her expression and moved to the door while Saki and Nora dusted their clothes. ¡°Oh, speak of the devil¡­¡­..¡± After checking the LCD monitor mounted on the wall to identify their visitors, Tersis unlocks the door and lets Schleer and Diaroze into the room. ¡°Thank you for waiting!¡± Schleer said with a big smile as soon as she entered. It appears that they managed to get the sentence they were hoping for. ¡°We did it! The court accepted most of our terms! I mean, it was difficult though¡­¡­..¡± Well, if Diaroze was given the death sentence then she wouldn¡¯t be able to come here with Schleer like this. Relieved, Kisei pat-down on his chest. ¡°Then?¡± ¡°Yes, we managed to avoid the death sentence under the condition that she has to cooperate with us in our future battle against the Nored empire.¡± Yes, the war isn¡¯t over yet. It is almost certain that the Empress herself will lead an even bigger fleet to restart this invasion. The court doesn¡¯t want to get in the way if they can get someone capable on their side even if the said person is their former enemy. Schleer focused on this argument and proceeded with the trial in that direction. ¡°This woman is one of the people who knows the Noredian army from the inside out after all. No amount of weapons are more powerful than that kind of information, that¡¯s how I presented my argument.¡± ¡°I see.¡± Nodding back to Schleer, Kisei now turns toward Diaroze. ¡°Good work holding out in the court. I¡¯m glad that it was finished without any incident.¡± ¡°There was a lot of nagging and fault-finding though¡­¡­.well, a whip without love really is no good.¡± Diaroze tiredly shrugged. She¡¯s a masochist but it seems that the prosecution was still uncomfortable for her. It would be bad if she actually got excited from that so Kisei was a little relieved to hear her say that. ¡°So, what¡¯s the sentence? They wouldn¡¯t just acquit this woman of all crimes right.¡± Saki asks as though she couldn¡¯t care less about the answer. After all, Diaroze was the commander of the Calencia Expeditionary Fleet. From the perspective of someone from Calencia, she¡¯s supposed to be the object of their hatred. That¡¯s why even if she managed to avoid capital punishment, she expected that some kind of heavy sentence is in line for Diaroze. ¡°Ahh, the punishment. Of course, her status will be derived and she will be branded a slave. Well, that should be a fate worse than death for aristocrats though.¡± ¡°S, Slave¡­¡­.¡± Nora gulped at the word. However, Schleer calmly reached into her pocket and handed something to Kisei. ¡°That¡¯s why, from today onward, Kisei will be this woman¡¯s master. Please take this and put it on her.¡± What Schleer handed to him was something that looked a lot like a dog collar. TLN: We are going that typical route now? CH 144 Slavery ¡°Wait, wait wait, why does it turn out like that!¡± It was not Kisei but Saki who raised their voice as she got in between Kisei and Schleer in a hurry. ¡°I understand why it would end with slavery. I get that it¡¯s the only appropriate punishment aside from the death penalty¡­¡­¡­but why is Kisei suddenly the master? That¡¯s too strange isn¡¯t it!?¡± ¡°Well.¡± Schleer looked away while making a light smile. ¡°At first, I was going to buy her myself. She seems like a capable military advisor after all¡­¡­¡­.¡± ¡°Then that should be fine, isn¡¯t it. Why didn¡¯t you just take her?¡± ¡°How do I say this¡­¡­.I mean, Kisei-san did a lot for us in the war right? Even this time, if it wasn¡¯t for Kisei-san then not that many Noredian soldiers would have participated in their coup in the first place.¡± ¡°That¡¯s right [DESU]. If he wasn¡¯t with us back then, the coup would have failed before it even started.¡± Nora said with a shrug. In the first place, they betrayed Diaroze because of the shameless strategy she deployed in her battle with Kisei. If she had fought straightforwardly, this would never have happened. ¡°Because of that, I was told that he needed to be given some kind of additional reward. But Calencia doesn¡¯t really have that much monetary leeway at the moment¡­..since we just obtained something that we can use to pay him with, we decided that she should be given to him.¡± ¡°Do you really have to worry about something like that in this woman¡¯s trial!?¡± ¡°It can¡¯t be helped, can it! It is what it is! Since the sentence was already given, there¡¯s nothing we can do about it anymore!¡± Half crying, Schleer shouted. It might have been a slightly disappointing result for her as well. On the other hand, Saki was overwhelmed and didn¡¯t say anything more. Meanwhile, Kisei was speechless as he cast his gaze down on the collar. ¡°By the way, this is a special slave collar. It has explosives inside and it will explode under certain conditions. The explosive itself isn¡¯t that powerful but¡­¡­..well, it will be practically tied to her neck so her head will literally fly off if it goes off though.¡± ¡°Th, that much?¡­¡­.by the way, what are these certain conditions?¡± ¡°First is the manual detonation. The collar can be detonated using a special remote control which will be held by me and Kisei-san respectively.¡± Saying so, Schleer presented Kisei with a small black resin remote. It looks kind of like a small music player. ¡°The other condition is when it can¡¯t receive the signal from the designated master¡­¡­.in other words when the biological signal from Kisei-san disappears. It will explode either when Kisei-san dies or that your biological signal can not reach the collar.¡± ¡°Eh, what¡¯s that, scary¡­¡­.¡± Even if it¡¯s the function that was put in place to prevent the slave from running away or killing their master, that¡¯s still overkilled. His expression stiffened when he looked toward Diaroze but she looked back at him with an emotionless face. However, in her eyes, he can still see the flame of lust raging inside. She¡¯s probably suppressing her excitement from showing. It feels awkward that the person who will be wearing it is the one most excited about this though. ¡°I didn¡¯t ask how far away you can be from Kisei-san and I think that you should be more or less okay but I would suggest not to stay too far.¡± Schleer warned Diaroze who nodded in reply with a still expression. ¡°The collar is made with military-grade nanotube material¡­¡­.it can¡¯t be removed once it is attached. If you try to remove it by force then it will automatically detonate. Your head will fly before you could get it off your neck.¡± ¡°Quit the tedious talk. I know how it works so just put it on already.¡± Diaroze said in a low voice. Tersis is looking at her as though she¡¯s impressed with how she accepted her fate so calmly but if she knows what¡¯s actually going on inside her head then she will surely have to hold her head. After all, Kisei already wants to do that. ¡°What will be, will be huh¡­¡­..¡± With a deep sigh, Kisei walked up to Diaroze and silently kneels down. He then put the rugged collar around her white neck before locking it in place after a moment of hesitation. With a small beep, the collar is now fully operational. ¡°WaHaHaHaHa, so it¡¯s over for our so-called next empress, isn¡¯t it! How do you feel now [DESU]?¡± Nora asked with a laugh. However, Diaroze answers with a straight face. ¡°This might be the best day of my life.¡± ¡°Ha?¡± ¡°Ah, I misspoke. It¡¯s the worst. Seriously, I would never have thought that I would become a slave¡­¡­.¡± Diaroze hurriedly corrected herself before turning away. Nora looked at her with a suspicious look but as though to blow that awkwardness away, Schleer starts speaking in a bright voice. ¡°Well, with our immediate concern taken care of, this is like taking a weight off my shoulders.¡± ¡°That being said, the war is still isn¡¯t over right? I heard that Nored is going to send an even larger army this time¡­..¡± Kisei thought that it would be bad if they let their guard down but Tersis shook her head. ¡°That is certainly true, My Lord. However, even the Nored empire can not suddenly mobilize such a large army. The next battle will be at least a month away.¡± ¡°Correct. Besides, our army is exhausted so we won¡¯t be able to do anything aggressive for a while. We also need to perform joint training with the Noredian soldiers who joined us¡­¡­.¡± ¡°Then we will be free for a while?¡± Kisei asked with his arms folded. Both the Noredian and Calencian armies were severely damaged in the last operation and a considerable amount of supply was consumed. They certainly can¡¯t move in such a situation but having some peaceful period for the country is something to be grateful for¡­¡­ ¡°Yes, for better or worse, this is a good opportunity. We¡¯ve been busy for a while after all¡­¡­let¡¯s take this chance to rest.¡± Schleer looked up to the ceiling. With him being taken hostage and suddenly made to join forces with the Noredian army¡­¡­.it¡¯s no wonder that she¡¯s exhausted. In truth, She¡¯s rather grateful that she now has time to rest herself. ¡°That¡¯s why I¡¯ve already made a reservation at the royal family¡¯s private hot spring resort tomorrow. How is it, why don¡¯t we go together, Kisei-san?¡± ¡°Hot Spring resort!?¡± Hearing that, Kisei almost did a spit take. TLN: Yup, we are going that route CH 145 Untrustworthy Cooperator Noon of the next day. Kisei and the others were guided by Schleer to visit a resort located in the mountains of the capital. For security reasons, the resort was completely reserved and there were no other guests besides their group. ¡°Still, is it okay for us to relax here like this when the planets we recently liberated are still in turmoil¡­¡­¡± While they were having lunch in the tatami-matted banquet hall, Saki raised her voice as she played with the sashimi on her plate with chopsticks. She forcefully included herself in this trip since Kisei is coming but she can¡¯t help but feel uncomfortable on a leisure trip like this. ¡°Well, I understand where you are coming from¡­¡­¡± With a small sigh, Kisei recalled the faces of the farmers on Sensterra Prime. Of course, after the operation was over, they sent food and consumables to the village as relief supplies¡­¡­..still, they hadn¡¯t gone back and thanked them properly yet because of the matter with Diaroze. ¡°If we have time, I want to return to the Sensterra system though.¡± ¡°Sorry, the Sensterra system is a little too far away. We need Kisei-san to be able to rejoin the army in case of emergency. If it¡¯s only this place then it will only take about 30 minutes for us to reach the headquarters in the capital using a high-speed ship.¡± Replied Schleer with a deeply apologetic expression. She is aware that Kisei and Saki were helped by civilians on Sensterra Prime. ¡°For the time being, the supplies we sent over should be enough for them for a while. I suggested for them to evacuate to the capital but they refused to move since they are worried about their fields¡­¡­¡± ¡°Thank you¡­¡­¡­but just sending things their way is not enough for me. I need to kick the Noredian army¡¯s ass and get back there to thank them properly.¡± ¡°At that time, I will go with you. In the first place, it was because of our defeat that they have to go through such hardships after all.¡± Schleer sighs with a slightly troubled smile. It¡¯s hard enough winning the war but there are still mountains of problems that come after. It would be more difficult to say that it¡¯s not troubling at all. ¡°Paying back a debt of gratitude is certainly important but resting properly is also a warrior¡¯s duty. Now that we¡¯ve come to relax, we should prioritize resting our body and mind now don¡¯t you think?¡± Hearing Kisei¡¯s boring talk, Valentina raised her voice. On a side note, she is currently wearing a light pink kimono opposite of Schleer¡¯s light green hakama she wore on her previous date with Kisei. Nonetheless, since the place is decorated in Japanese Style, the way she dressed certainly matches the atmosphere here. ¡°Yes, that is certainly true¡­¡­.but with you here, I don¡¯t think I can get a proper rest though.¡± Schleer replied in defiance. She knows that it¡¯s impossible to come here with Kisei alone but it was unexpected that Valentina would follow them here too. Moreover, she¡¯s not the only Noredian that accompanied them here. At another table, Nora and Tersis are enjoying the fresh sashimi. It seems that there will be a lot of insects that will get in her way here. ¡°Hahaha,¡­¡­.sorry about that. I can¡¯t help but worry that my sister might try something you see. I will take care of all the expenses so forgive me.¡± ¡°Uuu¡­¡­¡± For Schleer who is always extremely short on money, she¡¯s very grateful for that proposal. With her country¡¯s financial situation, she couldn¡¯t afford to pay for this trip using tax money. Thanks to that the remaining balance in her bank account was so low that no one would think that it belonged to a princess. ¡°I do tend to act coarsely sometimes you know, Master. How troubling¡­..kufufufu.¡± On the other hand, even though her own little sister speaks so lowly of her, Diaroze seems to be in a surprisingly good mood. Despite not even drinking a single drop of alcohol, she circled behind Kisei and hugged him with blushed cheeks. Meanwhile, Kisei yelped as he was crushed by her plump breast from behind. ¡°See, just like I said.¡± ¡°Is that how a slave should act though. Get off him already!¡± The two immediately narrowed their eyes and tore Diaroze off Kisei. Diaroze did raise a joyful scream but she didn¡¯t resist at all. Her high tension even shocked Valentina, her own little sister. ¡°Haa¡­..even though I can¡¯t leave her behind because of the collar, to think that things would go so terribly like this¡­¡­¡­.¡± Schleer let out a deep sigh as she held her temples. Since Diaroze can not be too far away from Kisei because of the collar, she had no choice but to bring her along as well. When Schleer was wondering if she should put Diaroze into some other room, Diaroze grins and whispers something into her ear. ¡°Well, hold your horse, I don¡¯t like how my little sister is acting all friendly with Kisei either. I will cooperate with you so just leave me nearby.¡± ¡°Muhhh¡­¡­¡± Schleer let out a small groan. Naturally, she has the detonator with her so it¡¯s possible for her to force Diaroze to obey her in case of emergency. The other side also knows that so she doesn¡¯t want to irritate Schleer too much either. Thus, Schler gives her a small nod. ¡°Don¡¯t start acting weird now okay.¡± ¡°I know. Rather than doing something weird myself, being on the receiving end is much more fun after all¡­¡­¡± ¡°Did you say something just now!?¡± ¡°No, it¡¯s nothing.¡± Diaroze returned to her seat with a smile before skillfully using her chopsticks to elegantly enjoy her sashimi. ¡°Umu, Umu. The fish here are pretty good. I like it.¡± Schleer sighs at Diaroze¡¯s nonchalant attitude. In the end, their vacation has just begun. CH 146 Killing Time After lunch, the group left the banquet hall and is now walking in the corridor. Kisei, whose belly has swollen from all he ate, curiously looks around. The corridor is being illuminated by the bare light bulb which is common in Japanese-style resorts that Kisei is familiar with and the staff that walk by are all dressed in kimono. Everything made him feel like he¡¯s in Japan except for the fact that all the employees here are Vuld. ¡°I just thought that you would relax better if the environment seemed close to your home.¡± ¡°It certainly feels like I¡¯m back home. Thanks.¡± Of course, being a poor man, Kisei has never visited such a luxury Japanese resort. However, he thanked her with a smile since he appreciated her consideration. ¡°Still, this place sure is nice isn¡¯t it¡­¡­..the view is nice too.¡± Said Kisei as he looked out the window. The combination of the dark green forests and mountain streams was so gorgeous that Kisei who normally doesn¡¯t care much for the atmosphere thinks that it¡¯s beautiful. ¡°Right, do you think so! I¡¯ve been waiting to show you this place.¡± Schleer excitedly replied in a good mood but seeing her like that, Nora simply shrugged. ¡°That being said, just looking at the view outside alone is boring you know. We came here to play so it would be nice to have something exciting to do [DESUKEDO].¡± ¡°Well, it¡¯s not like I can¡¯t understand that¡­¡­but is there anything else to do here other than lazing around though?¡± Said Kisei with a bitter smile. Certainly, he doesn¡¯t like spending time boringly either. Still, it would be idiotic to come to a place like this to seek excitement. He did bring some board games like shogi and playing cards with him so he¡¯s thinking of proposing for them to play a game together. ¡°Ah, if¡­¡­.if that¡¯s the case then how about the hot spring!? The hot springs here are top-notch, you know!¡± Schleer voiced her suggestion with her eyes suspiciously swimming around. Since it¡¯s so easy to tell what she¡¯s thinking, Valentina gazes at her while thinking (This woman¡­¡­.). ¡°Who in their right mind would take a bath right after a meal.¡± ¡°R, right! Ahaha¡­..¡± Schleer withdrew her suggestion with a cramped face. For some reason, Kisei felt like he did something bad so he let out a small sigh. He was about to agree to the bath but before he could say anything, Valentina approached him. ¡°Then how about some recreation? I did a little research before coming here but it seems this place has a pretty good arcade right?¡± ¡°An arcade? Ahh, I see¡­¡­..¡± Certainly, an arcade within a tourist resort is pretty common. ¡°I don¡¯t have that much experience visiting such a place so I¡¯m curious too.¡± ¡°I would be surprised to see some great aristocrats at an arcade too [DESU]. Tersis-SAN has never been to one too right? An arcade.¡± With the talk suddenly directed toward her, Tersis folded her arms and shook her head. ¡°Arkaid? Arcade? Well, I don¡¯t know what it is but I don¡¯t think I have ever visited a place like that before.¡± ¡°Rather, I can¡¯t even imagine this stiff woman in a casino you know¡­¡­¡± Hearing Diaroze, Nora did a spit take as the image of Tersis seriously putting coin after coin into a slot machine. ¡°Well, I¡¯m pretty much the same¡­¡­.doing something new sounds like fun too.¡± Really? Schleer cast Valentina a doubtful look. Unlike Tersis, Valentina seems like the type that would be raking in money at a casino. Still, Unsure of whether she¡¯s aware of what Schleer¡¯s thinking or not, Valentina continues with a smile. ¡°Also I heard that there are games that we can all play together too. It wouldn¡¯t be a bad idea to deepen our friendship right. We did go beyond our affiliations and joined hands after all.¡± ¡°I see. That¡¯s a good idea.¡± It was Saki who replied so with a confident smile. Since she grew up in the downtown area, an arcade is like her backyard. It would be a good occasion to knock Valentina down a peg using her superior gaming skills so she has no reason to turn down her proposal. ¡°If that¡¯s decided then, well¡­¡­.I¡¯m no good at action games so if you are going to play that type of game I will sit back and watch okay.¡± Kisei shrugged. Unlike on a striker, the difference between him and the Vuld here is obvious without the assistance from the I-con system. He would be so slow that he would stand no chance to beat Valentina no matter how hard he tries. ¡°We don¡¯t have to play a competitive game right? Let¡¯s go with something that everyone can enjoy together.¡± ¡°Well, that¡¯s true.¡± Although it¡¯s only a game, it would still be embarrassing to expose his shameful side to them. Still, it¡¯s not like there¡¯s any real danger here though. With so many agreeing to play, Kisei decided to go along and give them a nod. CH 147 Game The Arcade in question was located in the basement of the resort. After the group descended the thick wooden stairs, they were greeted by a myriad of arcade machines that were making electronic sounds and colorful lights. ¡°I expected an old, small arcade since it¡¯s a resort but¡­¡­this is actually pretty good. This place is almost as big as a small arcade isn¡¯t it.¡± Saki looks around with awe. Then, when she noticed something, she went [Oh], and immediately rushed to a certain machine. ¡°Isn¡¯t this Battlefield of Honor! If it¡¯s this one then you can play it right, Kisei?¡± Saying so, she pointed to a large spherical booth with a small door and chair plus a control stick inside. It appears that it was built to simulate a striker¡¯s cockpit. ¡°Hou, there¡¯s a game like this too huh. Interesting.¡± Valentina was impressed as she looked at the game machine. Even though it is only for a game, the quality is quite high. Even to her, who¡¯s familiar with real strikers, it doesn¡¯t seem cheaply made at all. ¡°I¡¯m bad with action games but I think this one is an exception. Why don¡¯t we try it?¡± ¡°Eh? Ah, Hmm¡­¡­.well, let¡¯s do it.¡± Kisei hesitated for a moment but he¡¯s also interested in it so he entered the spherical booth. After that, he sits down on the pilot seat and grabs the control stick to check how it feels. Liquid crystal displays were installed on the entire inner wall of the booth and it certainly gives the same atmosphere as a striker¡¯s cockpit. ¡°Since we are already at this, let¡¯s play against each other. Playing against an AI is boring [DESU].¡± Nora suggested with a grin as she poked her head inside. Just like that, she got into the booth next door. Seeing that, Schleer hurriedly did the same. There are only 4 cockpits for Battlefield of Honor so if she doesn¡¯t hurry, someone else might take it. The ones left out were Saki, Valentina, Tersis¡­¡­and Diaroze. With only one cockpit left, the four looked at each other. ¡°¡­..with this lineup, how about one of you guys take the spot? That way we would have 2 from Calencia and 2 from Nored right.¡± After pondering on it a little, Saki forfeits. She actually wanted to play against Valentina but if the seats are already filled then there¡¯s no helping it. After this match is over, they can just make a bracket later. ¡°Hmm, then I will step back too. Right now I belong to Calencia after all¡­¡­Kufufufu.¡± ¡°Me as well. In the end, this is a striker simulator, right? If I am going to cross swords with My Lord then I would actually prefer to do it for real.¡± ¡°Then I will take up on your offer then.¡± Valentina nodded and headed to the last available cockpit. Those remaining look at each other before heading to peek inside Kisei¡¯s cockpit. ¡°Do you know how to play?¡± ¡°Well, I will manage¡­..¡± After inserting a coin into the machine, the display gives the players some tutorials and the game menu shows up on the front monitor. ¡°So LAN battle, right¡­¡­¡± ¡°Yeah, that¡¯s the one.¡± Kisei selected the game mode and proceeded. Then, after confirming that his cockpit was linked with Schleer¡¯s, the next menu was the striker selection screen. A list of various strikers from extremely old models to the more recent ones was displayed. There are various types of striker available from the Zenith-Type which he¡¯s not that knowledgeable about to the mass-produced models of minor line production. ¡°Which one do you gonna choose? There¡¯s no [Caliburn-Revive] here you know.¡± ¡°Then what about the [Van Wolf]?¡± ¡°Hmm¡­..ah, there it is.¡± ¡°¡­¡­.Cool. I guess this is to be expected from the strongest ace of a big empire huh.¡± Tersis crossed her arms with a proud smile but Kisei mercilessly scrolled to another striker. Seeing that, Tersis¡¯s shoulders drooped down a little. ¡°I mean, this game doesn¡¯t have I-con system support right? It would be too reckless for me to challenge a Vuld opponent in close combat with only manual control. That¡¯s why¡­¡­I will go with Viper II.¡± Saying so, the striker he selected was a slender one with a long blaster rifle and large multiple missile launcher installed on its back. ¡°This guy¡­¡­.it¡¯s the standard model of the Terran army right.¡± ¡°Yeah. It¡¯s the Terran model designed to combat Vuld. Given my opponents, this one should be the most suitable.¡± Terran and Vuld have a vast gap between their physical specs. Of course, a pilot¡¯s aptitude is not determined only by physical strength but it still plays a big part since Vuld has the advantage in terms of reflex speed and G resistance. Without the I-con system support that gives him the ability to see what his opponents are going to do next, Kisei judged that piloting a striker designed especially to combat Vuld is his only way to compensate. ¡°Where did your usual self-confidence go, come on.¡± Saki sounded a little disappointed but Kisei was serious about this. ¡°Well, I will show you¡­¡­.how slow I am without the I-con.¡± Said Kisei with a line of cold sweat trailing down his forehead. CH 148 The Struggling Ace ¡°The stage is an abandoned city, and the team¡­¡­.it seems we have a Calencian and a Noredian team huh.¡± Kisei quietly muttered to himself as he glanced at the screen. As the stage¡¯s name suggested, the Abandoned City is a stage where many tattered skyscrapers and buildings are scattered around. As a side note, the graphic looks very realistic that he could mistake it for an actual battlefield. ¡°The control is pretty much the same as the real thing, you know. Well, try moving your striker around first.¡± Saki, who apparently played the game before, gave him some advice. Nodding to her, Kisei gently gripped the control stick and carefully pushed it forward. ¡°Hmm, I see. The basics are the same huh. That being said, the game is compensating for the lack of I-con system with automatic input right? I think I¡¯m gonna have a hard time with this¡­¡­.¡± Muttering so, Kisei checks the control of his striker. A few minutes later, a voice chat from Nora came in. ¡°You guys already got the hang of the control right? Can we start now?¡± ¡°The control¡­¡­I¡¯m good, I guess.¡± ¡°Same here. I¡¯m ready.¡± Schleer followed. Unlike Kisei, her voice seems quite motivated. ¡°Alright, let¡¯s end the tutorial¡­¡­Let¡¯s go!¡± Along with that enthusiastic voice, a crimson striker jumped out from the gap between the buildings. The model is the Noredian heavy-duty type striker, [Vil]. ¡°The game should have the 4 Heavenlys¡¯ strikers though¡­¡­..are you trying to go easy on me!¡± ¡°Crushing you with the difference in performance is no fun [DESU]!¡± Kisei immediately took aim at Nora who shouted in reply. The game has a major difference from an actual striker battle. If he can not shoot her down before she gets in range, he will be at a disadvantage. The moment the lock-on is completed, the missile launchers on the back immediately launch a barrage of missiles at her. ¡°Those missiles aren¡¯t even worthy enough to be a distraction [DESU]!¡± Nora took cover behind an abandoned building and easily defended herself from the flood of missiles. Then immediately after, she jumped out from her cover and shot at him with a mega blaster rifle. In response, Kisei hurriedly tried to evade the giant crimson beam but he couldn¡¯t make it in time and was hit on the shoulder. Kisei frowned at the blaring warning sound and the HP bar displayed on his screen that has sharply decreased. ¡°What¡¯s wrong? If this is real then that would be a fatal blow you know!¡± ¡°I know that already!¡± While shouting back at her, Kisei shoots back with his long blaster rifle. However, Nora easily avoided it this time as well. Moreover, to make matters worse, another striker jumped at him from a rooftop above. It¡¯s Valentina¡¯s [Jetta]. ¡°It seems that you really are bad at this game. Still, against a warrior of your caliber, going easy would be too rude! Sorry but, I¡¯m going to take you down now!¡± ¡°Geh!¡± He was having his hands full dealing with only one opponent, there¡¯s no way that he can win in a 2v1 situation. While hurriedly taking cover in a building, he immediately requested support from his partner, Schleer. ¡°Fire support! Request fire support! I¡¯m going to die at this rate!¡± ¡°Leave it to me!!¡± Along with that joyful voice, a blue [Claymore] rushed in and blocked the way of Valentina¡¯s striker. It¡¯s Schleer¡¯s. ¡°Your knight is not just Tersis alone! With me at your side, there¡¯s no need to fear!¡± ¡°Kyahh¡ªso cool¡ª!¡± In desperation, Kisei went along in monotone. Still, even with that monotonous encouragement, Schleer was hyped up. With her eyes sparkling, she pointed the muzzle of her rifle at the approaching Valentina. ¡°Even if it¡¯s just a game, an opportunity is still an opportunity! I will make you experience being an underdog for once!¡± ¡°Interesting, try it if you can!¡± Valentina replied with a ferocious smile as she blocked the incoming beams with her shield. Then, when she managed to get close, Valentina unsheathed a longsword from the waist compartment and plunged toward Schleer¡¯s [Claymore]. ¡°Hmph, you think you can beat me with a sword? Naive!¡± Schleer met Valentina¡¯s sword with her Zweihander. The swords collided with each other and intense sparks flew on impact. ¡°Heh, I already know that you aren¡¯t just some artillery maniac!¡± ¡°Good to hear!¡± The two strikers started to exchange blows but from a distance, Kisei grinned and pulled the trigger on his control stick. ¡°I can¡¯t afford to choose my method either! Sorry but avoid it as much as you can okay!¡± ¡°Uwahh!?¡± A storm of missiles rains down on Schleer and Valentina. Schleer quickly tried to get clear but several missiles still managed to hit her back. Since it¡¯s only a game, there was almost no damage but if it¡¯s an actual striker then the damage would have been significant. ¡°H, How cruel¡­¡­¡± On the other hand, Valentina¡¯s [Jetta] which was hit directly by the full barrage was in shambles. Although she managed to avoid getting disabled, various parts suffered major damage and her combat ability has significantly decreased. ¡°It¡¯s, it¡¯s okay. That was a good decision, as expected of Kisei-san!¡± Cold sweat started to break out but Schleer recognized that this is her chance. Switching her weapon, Schleer pointed her blaster rifle at Valentina¡¯s striker. However, at the next moment, the vicinity alarm suddenly rang out inside of Kisei¡¯s cockpit. ¡°It¡¯s not like you to take your eyes off me [DESUNE]!¡± Nora¡¯s striker, the [Vil] was rushing at her at a blazing speed with its photon saber in hand. ¡°You came at me after all, damn it!¡± Kisei immediately turned his long blaster rifle toward her but he couldn¡¯t make it in time because of the large firearm¡¯s poor maneuverability. The crimson photon blade approached the silver armor of the [Viper II]. ¡°First score is mine!¡± CH 149 The Knight Refuses to Lose ¡°You think [Viper II] is just a long-range model!?¡± Even when he couldn¡¯t intercept Nora with his rifle in time, Kisei still hadn¡¯t given up yet. By twisting the body of the [Viper II], Kisei fired the ultra-short barrel diffuse blaster cannon (TLN: Basically ultra-short barrel shotgun) installed into the [Viper II]¡¯s abdomen at the approaching Nora. ¡°Nuwah!?¡± The diffuse blaster canon does not have nearly enough ability to accelerate the particles to be powerful enough to defeat a striker with a single shot. However, because its shot still contains a large number of heated particles, even the [Vil]¡¯s heavy armor will take some damage from the direct hit. The main camera which was directly hit was destroyed and Nora¡¯s movement slowed down. ¡°I¡¯ve got you!¡± Kisei did not let his chance slide and immediately went on a full retreat with all his might while firing his blaster rifle at her. Still, Nora is one of the strongest aces. She won¡¯t be shot down that easily. While switching to her sub camera, she immediately leaped sideways to avoid the beams. ¡°I¡¯m not so green as to get hit by those half baked shots [DESUYO!]¡± ¡°Tsk!¡± While evading his shots with agile movement unsuited to the [Vil]¡¯s heavy frame, Nora fired back with her mega blaster rifle. Although Kisei managed to avoid the counterfire, he started breaking into cold sweats. ¡°Y, You are struggling a lot huh. Your movement is completely different than usual, you know¡­¡­.¡± Groaned Saki who¡¯s watching the game. If it¡¯s the usual Kisei then he would have already taken out his photon saber and counterattack. But now it doesn¡¯t seem like he can afford to do that at all. ¡°So it¡¯s like using only experiences and pilot skills huh. I see, so the source of My Lord¡¯s power was the I-con system after all. Still, to think that the difference without the thoughts assist control would be this much¡­¡­.¡± ¡°Using the control stick to input each and every action is obviously gonna be slower than using my reflex isn¡¯t it!¡± Kisei severely replied to Tersis¡¯s casual analysis. In truth, he can¡¯t even afford to perform any counter against Nora¡¯s fierce series of attacks. He would probably get shot down immediately if he gets careless. ¡°Hahaha, this is quite refreshing [DESU]! It¡¯s quite an experience to be cornering the great [Wicked Star] you know!¡± ¡°That¡¯s why I said I didn¡¯t like action games! Damn it!¡± Nora shows a fierce smile. She seemed to be having fun so Kisei involuntarily shouted back. ¡°Even inside a game, a striker battle is still a striker battle [DESU!] ORYAHHH!¡± ¡°Uwahhh!?¡± Nora¡¯s [Vil]¡¯s flying kick directly connected with Kisei¡¯s [Viper II]¡¯s abdomen and the thin silver striker was blown away like a soccer ball. ¡°This is the end!¡± Shouted Nora as she pointed her mega blaster rifle at the [Viper II] that¡¯s currently rolling on the ground. She was about to pull the trigger with an extremely joyful expression but she was stopped by a blaring sound of lock-on alert inside her cockpit. ¡°THANKS FOR THE WAIT!!¡± Schleer broke in between them with a lively voice and charged at Nora while firing her blaster rifle at her. ¡°Damn it! That woman, she¡¯s already down!? What a useless woman [DESU]!¡± ¡°Even if it¡¯s informal, is that really something you should say about your superior?¡± Shot down by Schleer, Valentina grumbled at Nora as she was faced with a game over screen. Since her striker was hit by Kisei¡¯s missile barrage, the fact that she held out for so long should be praiseworthy instead. ¡°Just give up, my little sister. Eleanor aside, all of the 4 Heavenlys are like this.¡± ¡°It seems you were having a hard time too huh, Aneue¡­¡­.¡± While Valentina was sighing at her subordinate, the battle intensified. Nora was using the building as a cover to shield herself from Schleer¡¯s blaster rifle but she was sniped by Kisei who has been sneaking around her in secret. ¡°EEII! Stop sneaking behind me already! Just come at me from the front!¡± Nora immediately takes aim at Kisei with her mega blaster rifle but before she could properly lock on, Schleer rushed in. ¡°Oh no, you don¡¯t!¡± ¡°Aren¡¯t you too eager for this!!¡± Nora¡¯s tone was even more coarse than usual. ¡°Of course I am! There are not that many chances where you can fight to protect Kisei-san you know!! If you are excited in a situation like this then you can¡¯t call yourself a woman right!!¡± ¡°I guess that¡¯s true¡­¡­I see, so the game can be enjoyed that way too huh.¡± Valentina quietly muttered but her voice did not reach the still excited Schleer. ¡°D, Damn you¡­¡­.!¡± The movement of the super excited Schleer was something that even a top ace like Nora can underestimate. She might be able to manage in a 1v1 situation but she couldn¡¯t even counterattack properly due to Kisei¡¯s timely support fire. ¡°Your intuition is still troublesome even with that suck-ass maneuver [DESU]!¡± ¡°Suck-ass maneuver!? My body just can¡¯t keep up with the control alright!¡± ¡°It¡¯s okay, Kisei-san! This Schleer Henrietta will protect you!¡± Shouting so, Schleer took out her Zweihander again and charged at Nora. Nora clicks her tongue and tries to intercept her but the missile barrage from Kisei prevents her from performing a counterattack. ¡°D, Damn it¡­¡­¡± Nora managed to avoid the missiles but Schleer¡¯s attack was unrelenting. The Zweihander pierced the [Vil]¡¯s unprotected body, disabled its main motor. With the game over message showing on her display, Nora let out a deep sigh. ¡°NNnnnn, and I finally got a chance to take down Kisei-SAN too¡­¡­.¡± ¡°Wahahaha, you can¡¯t take him down even if you try with me around!¡± Schleer said proudly. Valentina then makes a big smile and offers a suggestion. ¡°Then let¡¯s switch teams. I want to be My Love¡¯s knight this time.¡± ¡°Oi, wait a minute, that¡¯s not fair right! I want to do that too!¡± ¡°No, you won¡¯t! I won¡¯t let you have the title of Kisei-san¡¯s knight!¡± While listening to their heated arguments, Kisei shrugs with an awkward expression. ¡°It looks like doing a princess¡­¡­.no, a prince play might be more enjoyable here huh.¡± (TLN: A princess play is an online gaming slang in JP referring to female PC that charms male players[simps?] to protect them) Thinking of that unhealthy way to enjoy the game, Kisei made an ironic smile. CH 150 Schemer In the end, Kisei played the game 5 more times with a different teammate each round. Of course, he has a hard time keeping up every round but it seems that rather than his dominating opponents, his teammate ended up enjoying the game more. ¡°Th, that¡¯s enough for me, I¡¯m tired¡­¡­.¡± Kisei thought that he should just enjoy the game while being protected by his teammate but it¡¯s still tiring when he keeps at it for 30 minutes straight. Naturally, you get tired in real battle too if you fight for a long time but with the game being completely different, his mind and body still find it difficult to get used to it. ¡°Ahaha, sorry for the trouble¡­¡­.Kisei-san ended up playing a lot after all.¡± The one who greeted Kisei who came out of the game cockpit with a tired expression was Schleer although she has a bitter smile on her face, still carrying a joyful atmosphere around her. She was finally able to play the role of his knight so she¡¯s in quite a good mood. ¡°It¡¯s fine, it was fun after all.¡± Kisei replied while waving his hand. If he thinks of it as roleplaying then it¡¯s not like he can¡¯t accept it. Apparently, Vuld women do enjoy the situation where they can [Fight while protecting a man] quite a lot. Not only Schleer but even Saki and Valentina also seemed like they were enjoying themselves too. If everyone enjoyed the game then winning or losing doesn¡¯t really matter. ¡°Still, it does get stale after a while [DESUNE].¡± Said Nora while she was wiping off her sweat with a towel. If Kisei quits then Nora doesn¡¯t want to play it anymore either since her goal was to defeat him. ¡°There are a lot of games here so it would be a waste if we don¡¯t play other games too right?¡± ¡°I guess so [DESUNE] In the first place, we can pilot a striker as much as we want at work anyway [DESU]. Even if it¡¯s just a game, piloting a striker on vacation still doesn¡¯t make sense to me [DESU].¡± ¡°I¡¯m kinda convinced when you put it like that. Everyone here¡¯s a pilot after all.¡± Saki nods while folding her arms. They were just flying around in their striker on Senstera Prime the other day after all. After thinking about it a little, Saki sweeps her eyes around the place. ¡°Still, these games huh. We have this many people so it would be no fun if each of us played the game here separately right.¡± ¡°I see some virtual horse racing over there though?¡± Tersis pointed toward a large LCD screen displaying the image of horses galloping in a ring. Certainly, many of them can play the game together but¡­¡­..¡± ¡°Hmm, I want to play something competitive though.¡± ¡°Then what about that one? You and Tersis love this kind of exercise game right.¡± Saying so, Diaroze walks up to a ping pong table-shaped thing. ¡°I see, air hockey huh. Not bad.¡± Air hockey is a classic game where you hit a floating resin disk at each other that has been around for a long time. In a hot spring, people would expect to see a ping pong table but since the air hockey rule is not that much different, everyone should be able to play it. Thinking so, Saki joyfully agreed. ¡°I think I¡¯m going to sit this one out. I can¡¯t compete with you guys with my dynamic vision after all.¡± When it comes to a physical game like this, he has no chance of winning against a Vuld unless they go easy on him. So, Kisei shakes his head and withdraws with a bitter smile. ¡°Hmm, then allow me¡­¡­.¡± Seeing him like that, Schleer shows him a daring smile. Playing this against Valentina or Tersis while Kisei is watching should be interesting. However, Diaroze gently pulls her sleeve. ¡°Eh? What is it¡­¡­.¡± Diaroze did not answer and silently shook her head sideways. She then looks at Kisei for a moment before turning her gaze back toward Schleer. With that alone, Schleer understood what she wanted to say. ¡°¡­¡­I see, you are quite a schemer aren¡¯t you.¡± Without noticing their conversation, Saki and the others have already started playing. The match is 2v2. On one side is the Saki and Nora team while the other is Valentina and Tersis team. ¡°¡­..Haa, I can¡¯t see what¡¯s going on at all though¡­¡­.¡± With each side hitting the disk back and forth repeatedly with machine-gun-like speed, Kisei was pulled back a little. Naturally, at such a speed, Kisei¡¯s eyes can¡¯t possibly keep up. Thinking that it¡¯s the right choice to not participate in the game, Kisei shrugs to himself. ¡°Oi, Master.¡± Diaroze, who was always standing right behind him, whispered into his ear. With the sudden hot breath blowing into his ear, Kisei stiffened in surprise. ¡°Fufun.¡± Perhaps thinking that his attitude was cute, Diaroze gently patted his head. She then continues in a lustrous voice. ¡°They are playing on their own over there so how about we go find something else to play? Hmm?¡± ¡°Eh? Are you going to try something again¡ª?¡± Kisei stared at Diaroze with a tired expression but he was stopped from saying anything more when Schleer gently grasped his wrist. She then stares into Kisei¡¯s eyes with a slightly tense expression. ¡°W, Well, don¡¯t say that¡­¡­.let¡¯s go play together.¡± ¡°¡­¡­well, I guess that¡¯s fine.¡± When a woman says something with such an expression, it is kind of difficult for a man to turn her down. With a small smile, Kisei decided to go along. CH 151 The Useless Princess The three walk through the empty arcade. Since the inn is entirely reserved for their use, there are no other guests around. The place has a strange atmosphere where the game machines are humming noisily with no people around to play them. ¡°So, what do we play?¡± Asked Kisei while feeling a little guilty about sneaking off alone with Diaroze and Schleer. Still, it¡¯s true that he would only get bored since he can¡¯t keep up with their ridiculously high-level air hockey. ¡°Right¡­¡­.how about that one?¡± With a tensed smile, Schleer pointed to a crane game with a lot of cute plushies inside. ¡°It¡¯s a game where you get to keep the price inside if you can get it out using the crane, isn¡¯t it? I heard that men like that kind of stuffed animal.¡± The moment Schleer said that, Diaroze immediately bonked her head. ¡°Ouch!¡± ¡°You fool! That might apply to Vuld men but he¡¯s a Terran you know.¡± Schleer immediately paled after Diaroze quietly whispered that into her ear. ¡°Eh, do Terran men hate stuffed animals?¡± ¡°Of course, it depends on the person but you can¡¯t just generally apply that to Kisei right. Starting with stuffed animals is too risky, find something blander!¡± ¡°No way, even though I like them too¡­¡­Kisei-san, do you hate this kind of thing?¡± When Schleer asked that as if it¡¯s the end of the world, Kisei did a spit take. ¡°You don¡¯t have to laugh like that¡­¡­¡± ¡°N, no, well, sorry. I don¡¯t hate it¡­¡­it¡¯s just, I¡¯ve been moving around between a lot of armies right. I just don¡¯t want to increase my personal luggage too much¡­¡­¡± ¡°C, Certainly¡­¡­¡± When he came to Calencia, Kisei only had one bag with him. Recalling that, Schleer holds her head. To be frank, she would like him to settle in Calencia but from what she saw, it seems that Kisei doesn¡¯t have the intention of doing so. That being said, it¡¯s not possible to forcibly keep him here either. She has already decided that she needs to bond with him as much as she can to make it hard for him to leave as much as possible. ¡°Th, Then how about this punching machine¡­..?¡± ¡°Are you actually stupid!¡± ¡°Ouch!¡± With another bonk on her head, Diaroze slammed both of her hands on Schleer¡¯s shoulders and forced Schleer to face her. ¡°You, you are thinking of showing off your strength right! Do you think that he is the type that would get fluttered by that!?¡± ¡°N, No, I wasn¡¯t¡­¡­rather, aren¡¯t you too violent toward me!? I have the detonation remote for your collar you know!? Can¡¯t you behav¨C¡­..¡± ¡°Who cares about that! My master is Kisei, not you, you fool! The only reason I am cooperating with you is that I have no one else.¡± ¡°Ehh¡­¡­¡­¡± Schiller wondered if Diaroze¡¯s attitude is too haughty for a slave but she understands that it¡¯s not good to throw a tantrum here. Also, it¡¯s true that Diaroze¡¯s advice is benefiting her. Certainly, Schleer herself never looked into the difference between Vuld and Terran men¡¯s preferences. That¡¯s why she¡¯s actually grateful for Diaroze¡¯s advice since it gives her a new perspective. ¡°Even though you tried to forcefully have your way with Kisei-san, it seems you put a lot of thoughts into this huh¡­¡­..¡± ¡°U, Umu. I can¡¯t say anything back to that¡­¡­.but the forceful plan has already failed. That¡¯s why I think that I should adapt and devise our strategy according to his preferences.¡± ¡°I see¡­¡­it¡¯s true that information gathering is the basics of the basics. Since I neglected that, it¡¯s obvious why I have been failing huh¡­¡­..¡± ¡°Somehow, aren¡¯t you guys whispering something among each other for a while now? Well, it¡¯s great that you two finally get along.¡± Said Kisei with a happy expression. In the case of Diaroze, he was afraid that there might be a gap between her and the others because of her circumstances but it seems that she managed to get along just fine with Schleer. It would be difficult for Kisei if they always have a stiff relationship so he¡¯s actually grateful for this development. ¡°Aiyah, My apology! We didn¡¯t intend to leave you out, Kisei-san.¡± ¡°Umu Umu, we were just talking about something that we shouldn¡¯t let a man hear, don¡¯t mind us.¡± ¡°If you put it like that then it would sound like we were talking about something dirty right!?¡± Seeing Schleer defending herself in a panic, Kisei and Diaroze looked at each other and smiled. ¡°Kuku, Kufufufu¡­¡­.well, but, Umm¡­..crane game right? It¡¯s not a bad idea to pass time with that, isn¡¯t it? It¡¯s not like the only prizes are stuffed animals too.¡± ¡°There¡¯s some snacks in there too right¡­¡­..if it¡¯s that then we can share it with each other.¡± ¡°I see, that¡¯s true¡­¡­.if possible, I want to share it only between the two of us though.¡± Schleer turned to the air hockey corner where loud cheers could be heard even though they should be quite far away already. Still, there aren¡¯t many opportunities where she can be alone with him in this big group. With a sigh, she turned back to the crane game. ¡°Well, let¡¯s do our best together.¡± CH 152 To the Bath ¡°So, what¡¯s this? You left us out and having fun with just the 3 of you¡­¡­..did I get that right?¡± ¡°Yes.¡± After they were done with the game, Valentina noticed that Kisei and the others were gone so they hurriedly looked for them only to find Schleer at the crane game corner. Still, since they were playing air hockey by themselves too, they should have no reason to get angry. ¡°That¡¯s no good isn¡¯t it¡­¡­..¡± ¡°It¡¯s certainly not praiseworthy [DESU].¡± Nora folded her arms and added to Valentina. However, Schleer nonchalantly turned away with an unabashed expression with a large bag of sweets in her arms. ¡°But it¡¯s no fun just watching you guys play right? It¡¯s much better than making Kisei-san get bored isn¡¯t it?¡± ¡°I¡¯m not proud about it but I¡¯m quite a sight when I play sport you know. This figure isn¡¯t going to bore any men anytime soon after all¡­¡­¡± ¡°¡­¡­¡­¡± ¡°Ouch!¡± After narrowing her eyes at Valentina¡¯s statement, Nora kicked her in the leg. It seems that she has quite a complex regarding her short stature. Valentina is tall so whenever she brags about her figure, Nora can¡¯t help but get the urge to kick her. ¡°You really need to be a little more respectful to your superior, you know¡­¡­.¡± ¡°Ha, I¡¯m just cooperating because our interests happened to align [DESU]. If you want my respect then how about you go do something that can earn it first? You know, like a proper aristocrat would.¡± ¡°Ugh¡­¡­.¡± Valentina groaned with a frown. Nora¡¯s words may sound harsh but it¡¯s a fact. In Vuld culture, respect is something that you need to earn. If you neglect earning people respect, even an aristocrat may lose their position. Thinking so, she begrudgingly looked at her elder sister. ¡°Kufufufu¡­¡­being a slave is nice you know, my dear sister. Would you like to join me?¡± ¡°I¡¯m good. Thank you!¡± Valentina angrily replied to Diaroze who doesn¡¯t seem to have any shameful feelings about her circumstances. ¡°Don¡¯t be angry. We got enough for everyone¡­¡­.Schleer did her best you know?¡± With a bitter smile, Kisei pulls out a lollipop from the large pile of sweets in Schleer¡¯s arm. He then peeled off the plastic and put it into Valentina¡¯s mouth. ¡°Muguh!¡­¡­.lick lick¡­¡­..well, I guess it¡¯s fine¡­¡­.¡± Seeing Kisei, their anger subsided. Even though they went off to play without them, they were only playing crane games together. It¡¯s not like they sneaked off to lewd him. If it¡¯s only that then it¡¯s still forgivable. ¡°Still, you guys¡­¡­if you sneaked him off then be prepared when others do the same alright. I won¡¯t budge even if you complain later okay.¡± ¡°Isn¡¯t that a bit too late? Do you understand how it feels to get left out now?¡± ¡°Hahaha¡­¡­.whatever are you talking about.¡± ¡°This woman¡¯s skin is thick enough to ward off a round from a blaster rifle, Your Highness. It¡¯s useless to say anything to her.¡± ¡°Why¡¯s everyone so cruel!? My Love, please comfort my delicate heart¡­¡­¡± Valentina crouched down before Kisei while saying so in a clearly fake sad tone. Her wolf ears also cutely twitched. ¡°¡­¡­alright, alright.¡± It¡¯s clear that she¡¯s acting but it¡¯s true that she¡¯s a little pitiful. Reluctantly, he patted her head while tracing her rich blonde hair. In response, Valentina exhales a blissful breath. ¡°That¡¯s it. Can you not trouble My Lord too much?¡± However, Valentina¡¯s blissful moment didn¡¯t last long as Tersis grabbed her from behind and forcibly removed her. Valentina is tall but Tersis is more or less as tall as her so even Valentina can¡¯t escape her grasp through brute force. ¡°Muguguguh¡­¡­.¡± ¡°Haa¡­¡­Kisei-san, you can¡¯t show an opening to this woman you know. You won¡¯t know when she will drop her honorable act after all.¡± ¡°Well, the same also applies to you though.¡± Nora shrugged and jabbed at Schleer. Schleer immediately opened her mouth to defend herself but before she could say anything, Saki half-jokingly covered for her. ¡°It¡¯s okay, Her Highness is famous for being a wimp. Even if a chance presents itself, she would chicken out anyway.¡± ¡°What did you¨C¡­¡­¡± With a sympathetic expression, Valentina gently tapped Schleer¡¯s shoulder. ¡°It seems we both have a hard time dealing with our subordinates huh. Hahaha¡­..¡± ¡°Yes, well¡­¡­.on that I can agree. On that alone though.¡± Schleer let out a deep sigh. She then takes out a mobile terminal to check the time since it¡¯s been a while since they finished their lunch. ¡°Anyway, do you want to go to the hot spring? We managed to kill some time here and it will be a while until dinner too. I think the timing is just right.¡± ¡°You strangely bring up the hot spring a lot you know, Your Highness¡­¡­.¡± Saki seemed apathetic about it but Nora¡¯s eyes started to glitter at the word hot spring. ¡°No, it¡¯s a nice idea, isn¡¯t it. I have been looking forward to it [DESUYO]. Let¡¯s go.¡± ¡°Eh? Ahh, well, I don¡¯t mind¡­¡­.¡± Saying so, Saki glanced at Kisei who immediately nodded without hesitation. ¡°It¡¯s my first action game in a while so I¡¯m all sweaty too. It would be nice if we could take a bath.¡± If Kisei agrees to go then no one is going to oppose it. Thus, the group headed for the hot spring. CH 153 Naked Socialization Changing location, they are now at a large public bath. Schleer and the others are now stark naked as they submerged their bodies in the slightly cloudy water. ¡°Fua¡«h, this, this is the stuff. I can¡¯t have enough of this.¡± Schleer stretched her body with a blissful expression. Hers is not particularly big but her well-shaped breasts are fully exposed. Still, there are only women around her so she doesn¡¯t feel embarrassed about it. ¡°But it¡¯s a shame, isn¡¯t it. When I heard that you reserved the whole resort, I was looking forward to enjoying the mixed bath you know.¡± Said Diaroze who¡¯s sitting next to her. Her moist long blonde hair is wrapped in a towel so that it doesn¡¯t touch the hot water. Her face is bearing a mischievous smile. ¡°W, we can¡¯t possibly do that right.¡± Schleer replied with her face bright red. If she has to be honest, she would like the mixed bath too but it¡¯s still too embarrassing to bring it up to Kisei face to face. Besides, she doesn¡¯t want him to think of her as a predator. ¡°I¡¯m kidding, it¡¯s just a joke. Kukuku¡­¡­¡± Seeing Diaroze laughing and waving her hand at her, Schleer puffed her cheeks. Diaroze continues to grin at her as though she¡¯s enjoying herself but her eyes suddenly shift to Schleer¡¯s breasts. ¡°¡­¡­By the way, do you know?¡± ¡°Nn? Know what?¡± ¡°Terran men seem to prefer a woman with big breasts you know.¡± ¡°¡­¡­Ha!?¡± When those words were unexpectedly thrown at her, Schleer was taken aback. She then looks down at her own breasts and switches her gaze to Diaroze¡¯s. Unlike hers, Diaroze¡¯s were very plump. ¡°Aren¡¯t you just saying that because you have those useless sacks? Bigger breasts are better? I¡¯ve never heard anyone saying that before. It¡¯s getting in the way of your movement and you often get shoulder stiff from it¡­¡­.rather, they would only reduce your fighting power right.¡± ¡°What Terran men look for in women is not fighting power though¡­¡­..¡± Diaroze shrugs with a small sigh. She¡¯s a Terran enthusiast who has visited Earth many times. Unlike your average Vuld woman, she has some knowledge of Terran culture. ¡°Well, people have their own preferences so I don¡¯t know what Master actually prefers though. I¡¯m just talking about Terran men in general here.¡± ¡°H, Hmm¡­¡­.is that so.¡± The fact that Diaroze did not double down on her statement instead gave what she said more credibility. Schleer¡¯s eyes narrowed and stared at Diaroze¡¯s breasts as she crossed her arms and started to consider it seriously. ¡°There¡¯s no use looking at me you know. Your problem is with my sister. She¡¯s my little sister so we looked quite similar to each other¡­¡­¡­she¡¯s definitely taller than me though.¡± Said Diaroze as she pouted. An average Vuld woman doesn¡¯t really care about their chest size but they are very particular about their height. The idea is that the taller you are, the more advantageous you will be in battle. After all, a woman¡¯s role in Vuld society is to protect men. ¡°S, So you do care about it after all, losing to your little sister I mean¡­¡­..¡± ¡°Well, yeah¡­¡­..one or two centimeters is fine but when she¡¯s 6 cm taller than me then my dignity as the elder sister just¡­¡­..¡± ¡°Leaving that aside, you don¡¯t really have any kind of dignity though¡­¡­..¡± ¡°¡­¡­.¡± Diaroze seemed dejected so Schleer lightly tapped her shoulder with a slightly refreshed expression. ¡°Well, if that¡¯s the case then I am really no different you know. Leaving aside Nora, who¡¯s practically a child by the way, I¡¯m the shortest one here after all¡­¡­..¡± In Nora¡¯s case, since she¡¯s obviously younger than the rest of the people here, it¡¯s kinda embarrassing for anyone to compare themselves to her. Of course, she is still a little taller than Kisei but¡­¡­..Schleer is by no means taller than your average Vuld woman. It¡¯s not like she¡¯s on the short side either but she can¡¯t feel great about herself since the women around her are all taller. ¡°Who¡¯s a child [DESUKA]?¡± However, since the subject of her height is pretty delicate, Nora stomps over to the two with a moody expression while making waves in the hot water. ¡°Ahaha¡­¡­you heard us, sorry about that. But you are still young right. There¡¯s still hope. I¡¯m already past the growing age after all¡­¡­..¡± She may be a little baby-faced but Schleer is already an adult(Just this year). That¡¯s why it¡¯s hopeless to expect that she will grow any higher. ¡°¡­¡­.there¡¯s no use talking about it so how about you drop the topic [DESU]. It will only make us feel worse about our height [DESU].¡± ¡°Agreed¡­¡­.¡± Schleered nodded and made a long sigh. ¡°By the way, when are you going to do it [DESUKA}? I¡¯ve been ready for a while you know.¡± ¡°When? Eh, what are you talking about?¡± Schleer was confused. Seeing that, Nora tilted her head a little as though she¡¯s saying [Ha?]. ¡°What I¡¯m talking about?¡­¡­.it¡¯s peeping, of course. We are doing it right? Let me in on it too.¡± ¡°P, PEEPING!?¡± When Schleer suddenly shouted, Nora immediately jumped at her to cover her mouth. She then cautiously looked around before letting out a sigh of relief. ¡°Don¡¯t shout, what would you do if those stiffs heard us [DESU]!¡± ¡°Ehh¡­¡­Uh, yes, I¡¯m sorry.¡± Nora¡¯s sight was set on Saki and Tersis. Those two seem to be absorbed in drinking sake at the moment. Then, when their cups were empty, Valentina immediately poured them a refill. Seeing that, Schleer narrowed her eyes while wondering what she was trying to pull. ¡°But, peeping is¡­¡­¡± ¡°It¡¯s no use trying to trick me now [DESU]. That man is exposing his naked body in the men¡¯s bath just next door [DESU]! Rather, asking me to have some restraint would be impossible [DESU].¡± ¡°Nn!¡± Imagine the naked Kisei, Schleer¡¯s horniness gauge immediately maxed out. Of course, it would be a lie if she says that she¡¯s not interested at all. Seeing that, Diaroze gazes at her with a grin. ¡°Since you pushed for the hot spring from the beginning, you probably planned to do it from the start right? I know [DESU].¡± ¡°N, No, I only wanted to see Kisei-san fresh off the bath¡­¡­¡­¡± Since there are only women around her, Schleer blurted out her true intention. ¡°Hmm, that¡¯s a nice hobby you have there [DESU]. Seeing that man exiting a bath must be quite a sight too¡­¡­.still, a man¡¯s naked body is still an object of worship [DESU]. We can get two birds with one stone here. Do you get me!¡± ¡°But that would be too forceful¡­¡­¡± ¡°You are being annoying now [DESUNE]. Do you want to see his naked body or not!?¡± ¡°¡­¡­¡­¡± Schleer shut her mouth and groaned before answering in a small voice. ¡°¡­¡­I want to see.¡± In the end, she submitted to her desire. ¡°Good, then come with me [DESU]. I¡¯ve already investigated and it looks like we can peek in since the men¡¯s bath is an open-air one. We need manpower to cross that fence over there so let¡¯s help each other out here.¡± ¡°I, I understand.¡± Schleer tensely stood up and followed Nora. On the other hand, Diaroze saw them off with a speechless expression. ¡°Rather than looking at him, being looked at will feel way better though¡­¡­.No, having him strip me off my clothes is still the best huh¡­¡­..¡± Obscene imagination filled Diaroze¡¯s head as she muttered to herself but she can¡¯t afford to let that side of hers show in a public bath so she submerged her face halfway into the hot water to regain her composure. CH 154 Peeping The place Nora led Schleer to was just outside the large public bath¡­¡­.in other words, the open-air bath. The bathing area is characterized by a combination of large rocks and in the distance, you can see a mysterious sight of the valley being illuminated by the setting sun in the west. Quite a tasteful style of decoration. ¡°This way [DESU].¡± However, the two lustful women can not afford to enjoy such a view. Without any hesitation, Nora makes her way inside the bamboo grove that was installed there to act as a partition and forcibly get herself through. They are only able to do it so forcefully because there are no other customers since the place is fully reserved. ¡°Here, this thing is the problem [DESU].¡± Although the place is large, it is only one of the resort¡¯s facilities and they found what they were looking for immediately. What Nora is pointing to is a door attached to a sturdy metal fence. ¡°The door is locked and the fence is lined with barbed wire. It would be hard for me to break through this alone.¡± Certainly, the top of the fence is covered with barbed wire. The place is a luxury resort where the royal family usually stays at. That¡¯s why the resort¡¯s security is top-notch. This includes the fence that separates the baths. ¡°The men¡¯s bath is beyond this¡­.?¡± Schleer asked with a slightly skeptical tone. If she went out of her way to climb over the fence and the thing she saw was a staff office¡­¡­then it would be unfortunate enough that she could cry. ¡°Given the relative position of the entrance, it¡¯s almost certain [DESU]. It¡¯s very likely that they have a maintenance passage for cleaners somewhere around here.¡± ¡°I see.¡± Schleer glared at the barbed wire while folding her arms. She has already made up her mind. All that is left is to rush in. Still, it is certain that getting over this fence will be difficult. ¡°I think, if you, carry me like this¡­¡­.and throw me over the fence, then I should be able to get over it. I¡¯m this small after all.¡± Schleer narrowed her eyes at Nora¡¯s plan which she expressed in a sarcastic tone. It seems that she still holds a grudge from earlier. ¡°Then only you will be able to look right?¡± ¡°Well, that would be the case. Don¡¯t worry, I will give you the full details later.¡± ¡°Then that¡¯s just harassment isn¡¯t it!¡± Schleer sighed exasperatedly at Nora who brought up that selfish plan. However, the other party is a child so it¡¯s embarrassing to take her seriously so she takes a few deep breaths to calm down. ¡°¡­¡­Rather, if we go with that plan then you won¡¯t be able to cross back you know. If things go south and the staff gets called in then it won¡¯t end up with just embarrassing yourself right.¡± ¡°¡­¡­Certainly.¡± Nora, who was so focused on peeping on Kisei, had completely forgotten about what to do afterward. It should be impossible to completely forget about such a thing but it appears that both Terrans and Vulds do have lowered intelligence when the matter involves lewd things. ¡°Still, what are we going to do? I won¡¯t just give up after we come this far, you know.¡± ¡°I agree but¡­¡­.¡± When they both started trying to formulate a new plan, a rattling noise suddenly came from the bamboo grove behind them. The two turned around and their expressions stiffened. The person who came through the grove was none other than Valentina. ¡°Wha¡ª-!?¡± Although Schleer was in shock from being discovered, Valentina did not try to find fault with her. Instead, she only gives them a friendly smile. ¡°Hi there, you guys too huh. Don¡¯t worry, I¡¯m here to join in.¡± ¡°Ehh, you are trying to peep too?¡­..you usually act all honorable but as I thought, you really are a pervert by nature huh¡­¡­¡± ¡°I, I don¡¯t want to be told that by you! Even I am a woman! I have my sexual desire too.¡± Hearing Valentina¡¯s protest, Schleer let out a dry laugh. ¡°So the reason you poured all those drinks for Lt. Makishima and Tersis is¡­¡­.¡± ¡°Of course, so that they won¡¯t get in my way. It seems they are pretty absorbed in the sake over there so they shouldn¡¯t be noticing what we are doing for a while.¡± ¡°You are pretty thorough about this huh¡­¡­.¡± Schleer let out an astounded sigh. ¡°But there¡¯s no way to break through this fence, you know. It¡¯s not like the place is convenient enough that we can get into the men¡¯s bath just by climbing over the partition after all.¡± ¡°Without a tight security like this, any perverts would try to break into the men¡¯s bath after all¡­¡­.¡± Saying so, Valentina gazes at the barbed wire. She then confidently headed to the door and inserted something into the lock. The lock then released with a clicking sound. ¡°Eh, what¡¯s that.¡± ¡°The key.¡± With a grin, Valentina shows off the stick-shaped electronic key in her hand. ¡°W, Where did you get that! Don¡¯t tell me, you stol¨C¡­¡­¡­¡± ¡°What are you saying! I just borrowed it from the proprietress.¡± ¡°What¡¯s with this resort! If you can borrow such a thing then its security is pretty much nonexistent [DESUYO]!¡± How Valentina managed to borrow the key to the men¡¯s bath. Both Nora and Schleer couldn¡¯t wrap their heads around that so they intensely stared at Valentina. ¡°I told her Her Highness¡­¡­in other words, [you], want to peek into the men¡¯s bath so she told me the way and lent me the key. She was saying [Oh my, so the spring finally arrived for Her Highness!] while dancing in joy you know.¡± ¡°What are you doing with other people¡¯s names?!¡± With her name being used, Schleer fervently protested. ¡°HaHaHa¡­¡­.since you are here then it means that I¡¯m not exactly wrong right. This is the closet pervert you we are talking about after all. I thought that you would try to do this so I am actually being quite considerate here you know.¡± ¡°Uuu¡­¡­¡± Unable to argue back, Schleer faltered. ¡°I also heard this from the proprietress but it seems that your mother also used this route to peek in on her fiance before they get married too you know. Well, blood is certainly thicker than water after all.¡± ¡°Mother!!!!¡± Hearing that unnecessary fact about her own mother, Schleer let out a scream. The thought that her esteemed mother did that kind of saddened her a little. ¡°Well, don¡¯t worry about that. Let¡¯s get to it shall we¡­¡­¡± The moment Valentina touched the doorknob with a grin, another rattling sound suddenly came from behind them. When the three looked back in a hurry, Saki and Tersis were already looking at them with a blaming expression. ¡°Just what do you think you are doing? You three.¡± ¡°No, I was¡­¡­let¡¯s talk about this!¡± ¡°No need!¡± Thus, the three were immediately incapacitated by Tersis. CH 155 Scolding The three criminals who got caught trying to peep on Kisei were scolded by Saki and Tersis. Having to sit upright and listen to their scolding for hours is even worse than being jailed in a dirty brig. The three have come to agree on that. ¡°Haa, my legs are still tingling¡­¡­.¡± At the banquet hall after dinner, Nora lazily rolled herself on the tatami mat in her yukata. Seeing that small animal-like movement, Kisei smiled at her and crumpled her gray hair. ¡°S-T-O-P-D-E-S-U!¡± Nora, who resisted with blushed cheeks, staggered back but she managed to get up. She then closed in on Kisei, locked him in place with her arms, and roughed up his hair in revenge. ¡°I¡¯m on the patting faction, not the patted one [DESU]!!¡± ¡°You have factions for that¡­¡­.?¡± Kisei was seriously puzzled about that as Nora continued roughing up his hair but another person came up and grabbed the collar of Nora¡¯s yukata. It¡¯s Tersis. ¡°Lady Nora, it appears that you still haven¡¯t reflected enough?¡± ¡°HIEE, anything but the sermon¡­¡­.¡± Even the rebellious Nora immediately backed off since she¡¯s just got through hours of Saki and Tersis¡¯s sermon. ¡°It¡¯s okay, isn¡¯t it. It¡¯s like playing with a child after all. You don¡¯t have to punish her seriously.¡± ¡°Who the heck is a child, EHH, WHO!¡± Nora protested but surprisingly Tersis agreed with him. ¡°That is true, My Lord. Still, even if she¡¯s small, Lady Nora is also a woman. Letting your guard down and she might come for your throat you know.¡± ¡°Who are you calling a midget!!¡± The fuming Nora rushed at Tersis but with the difference in their body sizes, there was nothing much she can do so she was immediately pressed down with her head being pushed against the tatami mats. ¡°Is that really the case though?¡± ¡°Yes, all women are wolves after all.¡± ¡°Tersis-san too?¡± ¡°¡­..I am an exception, My Lord.¡± Tersis averted her eyes while her face slightly blushed. ¡°YOU LIAR!¡± ¡°It appears that the earlier scolding was truly not enough¡­¡­¡± ¡°GUWAHH!¡± While bitterly smiling at the two, Kisei shifts his gaze to the side. There, Diaroze and Valentina are facing each other across the table in a match of shogi. By the way, the foldable shogi board was brought here by Kisei. ¡°¡­¡­¡­¡± Valentina is tilting her head while considering her move with a groan while Diaroze seems completely casual about hers. Apparently, Diaroze currently has an overwhelming advantage. Still, seeing them unexpectedly getting along with each other made him smile a little. ¡°Peace huh¡­¡­¡± ¡°You, these women just tried to peep on you you know¡­¡­.be a little more upset would you.¡± Saki complained with a tired expression. Of course, Kisei was also told about Schleer and the others¡¯ evil plan. However, he only shook his head sideways with a gentle smile. ¡°Well, it¡¯s okay right. It was only an attempt after all¡­¡­..it¡¯s not like being seen would trouble me in the first place.¡± ¡°No, be troubled! You are an unmarried man you know. Have a little sense of shame will you¡­¡­.¡± The stern-looking Saki spoke in a preaching tone but Kisei suddenly came up with something. He then grabbed the collar of his yukata and revealed his chest. ¡°UEh!? Ugh, COUGH COUGH!¡± Saki was instantly upset and started choking at the unexpected attack. Since her reaction was way stronger than he expected, Kisei himself was also surprised so he hurriedly fixed his yukata. ¡°S, Sorry.¡± ¡°D, Don¡¯t do that again, you! Something like that is what a pair of lovers or a couple does inside a private room okay!¡± ¡°Th, that far huh¡­¡­..torso and up should be no biggy right¡­¡­.if even this is inappropriate then what would I even wear for a swimsuit?¡± Kisei was exasperated but his shoulder was suddenly tapped by Schleer. ¡°Umm, how do I say this¡­..it might be a little too difficult for men to understand but we women have a kind of fetish called CHIRALISM¡­¡­¡­.¡± (TLN: In Japanese, ¡°chiralism,¡± or chirarizumu ¥Á¥é¥ê¥º¥à, is, pretty much, accidental or natural ¡°flashing,¡± as in the exposition of skin or underwear.) ¡°Ah, Ahh¡­¡­.I see?¡± Chiralism aside, it¡¯s not like he can¡¯t understand the sentiment. After all, it¡¯s not only Vuld women that have this kind of fetish but also Terran men as well. ¡°Well, that being said, Her Highness did try to see you naked though.¡± ¡°COUGH!¡± This time it was Schleer¡¯s turn. With an irritated expression, Schleer cleared her throat and averts her eyes from Kisei as her face reddened. ¡°A, About that, it¡¯s just the fault of my yout¡ª¡ªI, I¡¯m sorry, truly.¡± Seeing Schleer wilting while apologizing to him, Kisei lightly nodded and told her [It¡¯s okay¡­] ¡°You did no harm and there are people who have tried something way worse than peeping after all.¡± Beyond Kisei¡¯s line of sight was Diaroze who¡¯s just defeated her sister and has a joyful expression on her face. Indeed, compared to the attempt to rob him of his chastity, peeping is certainly not a big deal at all. ¡°You¡­..are you sure that your standard just got corrupted after so much being done to you lately?¡± ¡°Hahaha, no way¡­¡­.¡± Being stared down by Saki, Kisei shook his head sideways while letting out cold sweat. It¡¯s true that there¡¯s been a lot of sexual harassment lately but he definitely isn¡¯t going to admit that. ¡°If you say so¡­¡­..¡± After a sigh, both Kisei and Saki make a bitter smile. Since the person himself doesn¡¯t mind it, there¡¯s nothing she can do but laugh it off with him. ¡°Oi.¡± Before she knew it, Diaroze¡¯s hand was placed on Schleer¡¯s shoulder and Schleer jumped a little in surprise. ¡°W, What is it?¡± ¡°It¡¯s the thing. Come with me.¡± ¡°Ahh¡­¡­sure.¡± In short, it¡¯s a toilet visit. Although there is almost no possibility of her betraying them anymore, it isn¡¯t a good idea to let Diaroze act on her own considering her position. Even Diaroze herself doesn¡¯t want to bother with some random accusation. That¡¯s why she¡¯s willingly accepted such surveillance. The two left the banquet hall but suddenly, Diaroze stopped still in the hallway. ¡°¡­..by the way, there¡¯s another thing.¡± ¡°Another thing¡­¡­?¡± Diaroze¡¯s tone was very serious so Schleer tilted her head in puzzlement. ¡°Tonight, you will go attack Master in his sleep. So prepare yourself okay.¡± ¡°¡­¡­HAAA!?¡± CH 156 ¡°D, Do you mean, you want me to do a night crawl!?¡± Attacking Kisei in his sleep¡­¡­..Schleer was shocked by those ridiculous words. However, Diaroze only waves her hand and corrects Schleer¡¯s misunderstanding. ¡°Not today. You are just going to sleep by his side. It¡¯s no big deal.¡± ¡°No, I think even sharing the bed is a big deal though¡­¡­..rather, what do you mean by not today?¡± Even though she already felt that she has set the hurdle quite high for the bed-sharing, it seems that Diaroze is planning to do something that goes beyond that in the future. Thinking so, Schleer glared at the nonchalant Diaroze with a speechless expression. ¡°Our full-scale offensive will start tomorrow. If possible, I want you to cross the finish line by the day after tomorrow though.¡± ¡°Cross the finish line¡­¡­don¡¯t tell me.¡± ¡°Don¡¯t tell you what, hmm. You, aren¡¯t you too lax about this?¡± Diaroze narrowed her eyes at Schleer who could only ask such a question back. On the other hand, Schleer¡¯s face cramped up at Diaroze¡¯s words. ¡°If you guys manage to repel the next offensive, Nored will no longer have enough leeway to deal with Calencia. That means¡­¡­..this war will be over and his mercenary contract with you will expire. When that happens then Master will leave this country, right? Do you understand what I¡¯m saying?¡± ¡°Ugh, that¡¯s¡­¡­¡± Naturally, Schleer is well aware of that. She understands that he will eventually leave but she doesn¡¯t want to think about it. After all, she can¡¯t stand having to part ways with him. ¡°You know, that doesn¡¯t really affect me. If I leave his side then my head would fly right off after all. On the contrary, this means that wherever Master goes, I will always be by his side.¡± A good nature Kisei wouldn¡¯t just abandon Diaroze and go off on his own. As long as she¡¯s wearing the slave collar, she will be able to stay with him until he dies. This woman has just lost her position as the would-be empress of an intergalactic empire but Schleer still felt terrified as she might be the one who¡¯s the closest to the finish line. ¡°But you can not say the same right¡­¡­¡­.right now you may have a temporary truce but you won¡¯t know when the battle with Nored will resume. You only have this chance to try and conquer my master.¡± ¡°Th, that¡¯s true¡­¡­.yes, that¡¯s right.¡± Suddenly, Schleer¡¯s body shook as she felt a terrible sense of anxiety. Kisei is a mercenary so he has no place in a peaceful country. It would break her heart to part ways with him when they win the war so she needs to conquer him before it¡¯s too late. ¡°Umu. it¡¯s a little late but I¡¯m glad that you understand now.¡± ¡°But why do you help me? Certainly, you don¡¯t know how things will turn out in this status quo but if you just leave me be then you would have won by default right?¡± ¡°That¡¯s true¡­¡­.¡± Diaroze affirms but her complexion doesn¡¯t look so good. ¡°But even if I can follow Master wherever he goes, his destination will always be a battlefield. I prefer peace myself. I can¡¯t rest easy and flirt with Master when beams are flying everywhere after all.¡± ¡°So you do want to flirt with him after all.¡± ¡°Of course. You want to do the same too right?¡± ¡°Well, yes.¡± Schleer gave a positive reply but her expression became distorted. It¡¯s clear that this woman has no plan of being just his slave. ¡°Still, that man is like a kite with no tether. The only way to control him is to give him some burden. For that, I don¡¯t think a single woman is enough.: ¡°I see, we are on the same page on that.¡± Kisei may derive his joy from being on a battlefield but from the perspective of someone that watches over him, they can¡¯t help but get worried. That¡¯s why Schleer wants him to tone it down a little bit. ¡°Understood, let¡¯s go with your plan.¡± ¡°Umu, I¡¯m glad we agree¡­¡­..but no matter how much our interests align, don¡¯t expect me to work for free alright. If we succeed then I am expecting a proper reward, you know.¡± Diaroze said that with a grin. ¡°Reward¡­¡­.you mean like revoking your slave status?¡± ¡°You fool! Who would want to let go of such a good position?¡± ¡°Woman, aren¡¯t you enjoying being a slave too much!?¡± Schleer no longer knows for what reason she made this woman a slave. She thought that Diaroze¡¯s a prideful woman so being a slave should humiliate her but¡­¡­.this is how it turns out. ¡°Well, leaving that aside. What I mean by reward is to have me included in the marriage as well. Oh, of course, you will be the main wife so don¡¯t worry.¡± ¡°Kuh¡­¡­can¡¯t be helped then.¡± A Vuld marriage system is one that usually shares one man with multiple women. This spouse sharing system is usually done between sisters. However, there is no law that forbids sharing your husband with other women outside your family. It is rare for a wife to share her marriage with her close friend or a slave but it does happen. Of course, Schleer doesn¡¯t want to share a husband with her ex-nemesis. However, she is not confident that she can tie down Kisei by herself so she has no other choice. Diaroze may be a pervert but it¡¯s true that she¡¯s incredibly smart after all. ¡°But that¡¯s only if we succeed. Are you confident that your plan will work?¡± ¡°Of course. I¡¯ve already tried conquering him once and failed. Conversely, I will not make the same mistake again. I¡¯m confident enough that it will be a sexxess.¡± ¡°Did you say sexxess instead of success just now!?¡± ¡°I DID!¡± Schleer¡¯s face immediately turned bright red at that straight ball. CH 157 That night, Schleer and Diaroze were walking together in the dimly lit corridor of the resort. It¡¯s already past light-off time so the place is pretty much silent. ¡°To tell you the truth, it was I who told Tersis and the others about your peeping attempt.¡± ¡°I, I thought that they were quick to find us but it was you!?¡± To that sudden confession, Schleer¡¯s eyes became wide open as she shouted back. Of course, she¡¯s aware that she¡¯s out here in the middle of the night for a reason so she tried to keep her voice down to some extent. ¡°D, Do you know how much I suffered in that sermon hell¡­..!?¡± ¡°That was tactically inevitable. Thanks to your self-destruction we managed to distract the busybodies like Tersis and Saki away. Clouding your enemies¡¯ eyes is one of the basics of warfare right?¡± ¡°¡­¡­Certainly. Both Valentina and Nora-san were staying in single rooms but they were moved to a double room for ease of surveillance because of that.¡± Valentina is being monitored by Tersis while Saki is keeping an eye on Nora. The two were pretty dissatisfied with the fact that they can¡¯t enjoy their single room by themselves too. ¡°By the way, I am supposed to be in charge of watching you. Well, rather than a watchdog, I¡¯m actually your accomplice though.¡± ¡°¡­¡­so you managed to convince Lt.Makishima and Tersis-san that you are on their side huh.¡± ¡°I convinced them that even rotten as I am, I am still your love rival and I wouldn¡¯t let you have all the fun by yourself. It was unexpectedly pretty easy to get them to believe me you know.¡± ¡°¡­¡­so it¡¯s okay if we have fun together?¡± Schleer asked that with her eyes squinted. After all, Diaroze seems pretty enthusiastic about this. In the first place, she doesn¡¯t need to walk there with her if she intends to have Schleer share Kisei¡¯s bed alone. ¡°Of course, having two people is more effective than one and it also has its own merit too. It¡¯s killing two birds with one stone.¡± ¡°Effective? In the first place, what are we doing this for? I mean, I also want to sleep next to him but I don¡¯t see any particular purpose for that though.¡± ¡°Umu, it¡¯s simple. With the two of us, it will weaken Master¡¯s mind and cloud his judgment. Basically, it¡¯s the same idea behind my strategy against the [Wicked Star] on the battlefield.¡± ¡°Weaken¡­¡­?¡± Schleer, who doesn¡¯t seem to understand what Diaroze is saying, cocked her head. Treating her like an idiot, twirl her finger with a slightly mocking expression. ¡°You, don¡¯t you think also think that man has no sexual desire at all?¡± ¡°Eh, I mean, I guess so¡­¡­he¡¯s a young man after all.¡± Vuld men usually have little libido. Moreover, with her being a virgin who doesn¡¯t even have a boyfriend yet, Schleer is clueless about how a straight man thinks. ¡°Haa¡­..this is why you are no good.¡± However, Diaroze who belongs to the same [Years without boyfriend = Age] group replied with a smug smile on her face. ¡°As far as I can tell, that man is not the type that doesn¡¯t feel anything when he sees a woman at all. He was only controlling himself because being with a woman is too risky for himself.¡± ¡°¡­¡­Hou.¡± Curious, Schleer urged her to continue. ¡°That¡¯s why we will keep attacking him until he loses control. If you are pent up enough then reasons would fly out the window after all¡­..¡± Diaroze¡¯s remark is pretty convincing. It gets even more convincing considering that she¡¯s a woman who just lost her position as a crown princess and fell to slavery because of her sexual desire. This time her strategy is based on her past mistakes. ¡°First is a pincer maneuver. We will have him being sandwiched from both sides by us all night.¡± ¡°¡­..but, if that¡¯s the case then it means we will all share the same futon right? Won¡¯t that be weird?¡± Sharing a futon between women is not something that Vulds honestly wants to avoid. If it¡¯s between sisters then it¡¯s still kinda okay but they are both strangers here. ¡°You are annoying. Even I wouldn¡¯t do this unless it¡¯s necessary okay!¡± Of course, Diaroze also shares that sentiment. However, it¡¯s a necessary sacrifice she has to make for this operation. ¡°But, BUT. When it gets to the real stuff then we will be doing it together too you know? If we don¡¯t get used to it now then we won¡¯t be able to carry out the plan later right. Just treat it like a rehearsal this time.¡± ¡°Eh, the real stuff¡­..EH!? We are going to do that three ways!? Are you sane!?¡± Schleer can¡¯t overlook that bombshell. After all, she wants it to be as romantic as possible for her first time. ¡°Two women holding down a man!?¡­¡­..this is not like those erotic books¡¯ scenario you know! I mean, I don¡¯t particularly hate that kind of thing but I can at least separate my delusion from reality okay!¡± ¡°No, you misunderstood me. It¡¯s kind of the opposite actually.¡± However, Diarzoe calmly replied. She then let out a deep sigh before continuing. ¡°Master is a Terran. You might not be aware but Terrans are physically weak.¡± ¡°That¡¯s, of course, I¡¯m aware¡­¡­.¡± She still remembers how Kisei¡¯s body gradually broke down when he piloted a striker at its full output. If she doesn¡¯t know that then she would still have peace of mind to send him off into the battlefield in the first place¡­¡­. ¡°Against someone like that, if we who are overwhelmingly stronger than him forcefully have our way then the result would be ugly don¡¯t you think. In the worst case, he might even lose his life. We need some kind of stopper to prevent ourselves from overdoing it.¡± ¡°In other words, you are afraid that I might go overboard?¡± ¡°Let me ask you this, are you confident enough to not go berserk in front of that man¡¯s naked body?¡± ¡°¡­¡­.No.¡± Schleer wanted to deny it but she doesn¡¯t have that much confidence in herself. Seeing that, Diaroze satisfyingly nodded at her. ¡°The opposite can also be said for me too. If either one of us can retain our sanity then we should be able to avoid the worst. Even if his body is safe, it would be bad if he develops a phobia after all. Anyway, our priority is his safety so we have to be careful. You got it?¡± ¡°¡­¡­yes, of course.¡± Schleer reluctantly nodded. Even if some call it a night crawl, if they do it forcefully then it¡¯s no different from rape. They need to first gain his consent. And Schleer is not confident enough that she can do this on her own. ¡°I¡¯m glad you understand¡­¡­..alright then, we¡¯re here. Well, the finishing line is tomorrow night. Let¡¯s not be so tense for today.¡± After flashing Schleer a gentle smile that doesn¡¯t suit her at all, Diaroze pressed the intercom button in front of Kisei¡¯s room. CH 158 Bed Sharing As he was about to enter the futon, Kisei frowned at the sound of the intercom. Checking the time on his mobile terminal, it¡¯s a bit too late for someone to visit him at this time. With a sigh, Kisei used the remote to turn on the lights. ¡°Coming¡­¡­¡­¡± The room is completely in a Japanese style and the only thing that seems out of place is the sturdy door installed for security reasons. While replying with an unmotivated voice, Kisei used the LCD monitor on the intercom to check who was at the door. ¡°¡­¡­..I have a bad feeling about this.¡± Behind the door were Schleer and Diaroze. Neither of them was able to hide their tension and excitement. It¡¯s clear that they are planning something but since he already answered, he can¡¯t pretend to be out now. Unlocking the door, Kisei opened the door with the chain on. ¡°What¡¯s wrong, it¡¯s late you know.¡± ¡°Well, sorry about this. There¡¯s something that we absolutely need to talk to you about, you see.¡± Saying so, Diaroze beckons Kisei closer with her hand. Since it seems that there¡¯s something that she doesn¡¯t want Schleer to hear, Kisei gets closer. ¡°If you don¡¯t want everyone to know that you slept in the same bed as that Makishima Saki woman, you will let us in.¡± ¡°!?¡± Kisei¡¯s expression immediately turned bitter. Certainly, he did share a futon with Saki at the farm village on Senstera Prime but it was because they were being taken care of by the farmers there. ¡°H, How did you¡­¡­¡± ¡°When Master hopped into my striker, I smelled that woman¡¯s scent on you. Even if you were together, the smell usually wouldn¡¯t be that strong.¡± ¡°Ugugugugu¡­¡­¡­¡± They did nothing that they need to be ashamed of but if the people here were to know about this, the situation would certainly turn annoying. Since Diaroze is whispering this to him, Schleer still probably hasn¡¯t heard about it yet. He¡¯s still anxious about letting them in but he decided to let them in for the time being. ¡°¡­¡­.come in.¡± In the end, Kisei took off the door chain and let the two in. ¡°T, to let us in this easily, what did you say to him¡­¡­¡­¡± ¡°It¡¯s a secret.¡± While Diaroze confidently takes off her shoes and enters the room, Schleer still looks hesitant. Kisei sat down on the futon and stared at the two who sat down on the cushion with suspicion. ¡°So, what do you two want? Pillow fight?¡± ¡°That¡¯s an attractive proposal but that¡¯s not it.¡± With a grin, Diaroze shook her head. Schleer then follows up. ¡°Actually, umm¡­¡­.we want to ask if we can sleep with you today.¡± ¡°Nngh.¡± In response to that straightforward request, Kisei let out a straight voice. ¡°T, that came out of nowhere huh.¡± ¡°Well, you see¡­¡­.you promised a kiss to me before right? But rather than a kiss, I think that sharing a bed would be better¡­¡­if you are okay with it.¡± ¡°That time with the sexual harassment viscountess huh¡­¡­..¡± On Senstera Prime, the condition for the Noredian viscountess to join side with Calencia was for him to kiss her. Out of jealousy, Schleer made him promise to kiss her too. In the end, there were a lot of things going on back then that they did not have a chance to make good on that promise¡­¡­.. ¡°Is ,is it no good?¡± If he has to say whether he¡¯s okay with it or not then it¡¯s not but he¡¯s scared of Diaroze who¡¯s smiling behind Schleer. If the fact that he shared a bed with Saki gets out he can see Nora and the others saying something like [Even though you always told us to keep it in moderation but I guess you are an exception huh]. Since they went out of their way to have this leisure trip, it would be bad if their relationship becomes strained now. ¡°¡­¡­fine.¡± In the end, Kisei had no choice but to agree. ¡°Don¡¯t worry. If she tries anything funny then I will stop her myself. I went out of my way to come with her after all.¡± ¡®That¡¯s only for today though¡¯,¡­¡­¡­..Diaroze hid her true intention and continued with a shrug. ¡°That¡¯s why I¡¯m going in with you, Master. It¡¯s to monitor this woman so there¡¯s no other way okay?¡± ¡°NNNNNNnn!¡± It¡¯s too late for him to turn her down now. Knowing that, Kisei jumped into his futon and curled like a snail. The two women then looked at each other with victorious smiles on their faces. ¡°T, Then, please excuse me¡­¡­.¡± On his right, Schleer nervously inserted herself into the futon. The scent of the bath tickled his nose, making his heart throb. Following that, Diaroze came in from his left and wrapped Kisei¡¯s delicate body into the embrace of her plump breasts. ¡°Having 3 people in a 1-person futon is too tight right? This is necessary for us to share it together.¡± Even Kisei who¡¯s normally pretty calm in a situation like this can not stay serene this time. After all, Diaroze¡¯s body was both soft and stimulating. ¡°Come on, you should get closer too. If you don¡¯t warm your body then you might catch a cold you know?¡± ¡°Y, yes.¡± Schleer hurriedly turns off the lamp with the remote before pressing her trembling body against Kisei. Although Schleer¡¯s body is lacking when compared to Diaroze¡¯s, her moderately trained body and firm sensation give a very nice feeling. It¡¯s no longer a situation where Kisei can fall asleep. ¡°H, How did it come to this¡­¡­¡­¡± Kisei was already perplexed about his situation but unbeknown to him, his suffering had just begun. CH 159 The Excited Princesses The next morning. When Schleer slowly opened her eyes, the first thing she saw was Diaroze¡¯s peaceful sleeping expression. ¡°Uweh.¡± Schleer moaned as though she had seen something unpleasant. The fact that she looked so peaceful annoyed her so she quickly tried to get rid of that irritating sight by moving away but her body was firmly held in place by Diaroze¡¯s arms. ¡°Uuu¡­¡­..¡± From between Schleer and Diaroze, a painful groan arises. It¡¯s Kisei¡¯s. Even though he¡¯s being sandwiched between two beautiful women, his expression is one of agony. ¡°Oh no¡­¡­.¡± Schleer hurriedly stopped moving. She knows that he couldn¡¯t sleep until morning. Staying up all night for a day or two is no big deal for her but that should be bad for Kisei so she wants him to sleep as much as possible. ¡°¡­¡­fuhehehe.¡± Looking at his face, Schleer¡¯s expression turned sloppy. Even though they didn¡¯t go all the way yet, the fact that she got to share a bed with him is still a progress. Feeling his delicate body in her arms, Schleer¡¯s drowsiness was instantly blown away. ¡°Still, this is annoying¡­¡­.¡± Schleer irritatingly glared at Diaroze who¡¯s still asleep. She finally got to sleep with Kisei but she couldn¡¯t fully enjoy it because Diaroze was in the way. ¡°Ouch!¡± Unable to endure it, Schleer head-butted Diaroze. Of course, she was holding back but Diaroze woke up while letting out a small scream. ¡°Wh, what are you doing.¡± ¡°It¡¯s painful for Kisei-san so let go of him already.¡± ¡°Oh!¡± With a grin, Diaroze looked down at Kisei who¡¯s buried in her chest, and gently let go so as to not wake him up. ¡°Mmm, I¡¯m all numb.¡± Her limbs are completely paralyzed from being put under the weight of both Kisei and Schleer all night. Leaving the futon, Diaroze rolled on the tatami while groaning with [Umumumumumu] for a while. ¡°Seriously.¡± While being astounded by the sight, Schleer gently hugged the freed Kisei. Perhaps because he was sandwiched by them all night, his body is all sticky from the sweat. However since it belongs to someone she loves, rather than feeling disgusted, his body is now even more stimulating for her. While hugging him, Schleer put her nose on his nape and took a deep breath. ¡°Fuhee¡­¡­..¡± ¡°¡­..the real deal is tonight so don¡¯t go crazy on me now okay.¡± ¡°I, I understand¡­¡­I mean, a situation where I can snuggle with the sleeping Kisei-san is pretty exciting right. For my [first time], I will have to do it seriously after all.¡± ¡°Do you really understand I wonder¡­¡­¡± Astounded, Diaroze shakes the numbness out of her limbs. She then snuggled up to Kisei with a grin. Then after confirming that he¡¯s still asleep, she stuck out her tongue and licked his sweaty cheek. ¡°Uwah, what a pervert¡­¡­.¡± ¡°Didn¡¯t you just sniffed on his nape earlier!?¡± Diaroze protested. Unable to argue back, Schleer went back to silently enjoying Kisei¡¯s scent. Diaroze also didn¡¯t say anything further and let her tongue roam free on his cheek and neck. The sight of a young man being almost literally devoured by two beautiful women looked terribly perverted but even though he¡¯s still asleep, it¡¯s not like the young man in question did not feel anything at all. Although he still hasn¡¯t woken up, wrinkles began to form between his eyebrows and he began to growl in his sleep. ¡°Uuu¡­.don¡¯t eat me, I¡¯m not delicious¡­¡­.¡± ¡°You liar, there¡¯s no man tastier than you.¡± With a feverish smile, Diaroze lifts her face. If he wakes up now then he will surely call the police. ¡°Now then, I have to leave first.¡± ¡°Oh, where are you going?¡± Even without all the perverted acts, looking at Kisei¡¯s sleeping face alone is already exciting. Schleer intended to stay with him until he woke up but it seems Diaroze has a different plan in mind. ¡°Umu, I still have some preparation to make you see.¡± ¡°Preparation?¡± ¡°I told you right? We will hit him repeatedly with our attack. This sleeping together thing is just the tip of the iceberg.¡± ¡°Y, You still have more plans? If Lt.Makishima or Tersis-san finds out then they will tighten the surveillance and we won¡¯t be able to leave our room tonight you know¡­¡­.¡± Schleer had him in her embrace all night without allowing herself to do anything more. Her patience had already reached its limits. Still, she managed to endure in hope of their plan tonight. She can¡¯t allow it to fail no matter what. ¡°Umu, you are exactly right. That¡¯s why we will make use of someone else.¡± ¡°¡­Eh?¡± ¡°There¡¯s a limit to what a slave like me and a clumsy princess like you can do after all. That¡¯s why we need more help.¡± Do they actually have another collaborator? Schleer was anxious so she tried to ask Diaroze but before she could, Diaroze continued. ¡°Well, that being said¡­¡­.first is a bath. My underwear is all ruined after all¡­¡­¡± ¡°Uweh¡­¡­.can you not say that so openly? It¡¯s disgusting.¡± ¡°Kukuku¡­¡­sorry, my bad. Still, the one who needs a bath is not only me, right? If you looked that in heat then he might hate you you know.¡± Schleer glared at Diaroze when she said that but she¡¯s right. Reluctantly parting her body from Kisei¡¯s, Schleer got out of the futon. ¡°Still, since we intruded on him all night, it would be rude to leave before he wakes up. I will just use the shower here so you can go enjoy the hot spring alone.¡± This resort¡¯s selling point is the hot springs but the rooms here also came equipped with a shower room. If you only want to wash your body then using the shower inside the room would be faster. ¡°Umu, I will do that even if you don¡¯t tell me to. The hot springs here are pretty great after all.¡± Saying so, Diaroze waved her goodbye and left the room. After she sees her off, Schleer nervously brings her face close to Kisei¡¯s. She then tried to place her lips on his forehead. Still, it would be rude to do that while the other party is asleep so she settled with doing it on his cheek instead. TLN: Yabai Yabai YABAI!! CH 160 Waking Up ¡°Uuu¡­¡­¡± Kisei woke up 30 minutes later. Hiding her internal carnal desire, Schleer gives him a gentle smile as she gives him a lap pillow. ¡°Good morning.¡± ¡°yawn¡­¡­.morning¡­¡­..¡± Although he was awake, Kisei seemed to be still very tired. He then lifts his head up from Schleer¡¯s lap and rubs his eyes. ¡°I had a nightmare. I don¡¯t know if it was a lion, a tiger, or a cheetah but I was about to be eaten by something scary¡­¡­¡± ¡°Ahaha, that must have been terrible¡­¡­.¡± Schleer knew that it was partly her fault but she couldn¡¯t just confess and let him think of her as a pervert so she could only give him a vague smile. ¡°By the way, how did I end up sleeping on your lap¡­¡­?¡± ¡°Well¡­.¡± She did it because she wanted to. There¡¯s no particular reason behind it but she certainly looked suspicious from Kisei¡¯s perspective. Schleer tried to find an answer but in the end, she could only quietly shake her head and reply. ¡°It just happened.¡± ¡°It just happened huh¡­..¡± However, it seems that Kisei¡¯s head is not working properly from the lack of sleep so he didn¡¯t pursue the topic further. He then tiredly gets up and looks at his body. ¡°Uwah, I sweated a ton. It must have been pretty smelly right. Sorry about that.¡± ¡°What are you saying! Rather, I want you to smell like that forever!¡± ¡°Ehhh¡­¡­.¡± Kisei was taken aback. Seeing his awkward expression, Schleer turned bright red and covered her face with the futon. ¡°I¡¯m, I¡¯m sorry¡­¡­¡± ¡°We, well, it¡¯s fine. Come to think of it, where did Diaroze go?¡± ¡°She went to the bath first.¡± Schleer replied without taking the futon off her face. ¡°Ahh, I see. Then I will too. I sweated all over so my body is all sticky after all.¡± ¡°Ah, then please let me accompany you.¡± Schleer lifted her face and proposed so. Of course, she doesn¡¯t mean that she wants to enter the mixed bath with him. She only wants to act as his escort. However, Kisei shook his head sideways. ¡°No, I mean, it would be bad if someone saw us come out of the room together right? I will go first so you wait a while before leaving okay.¡± ¡°C, Certainly.¡± If Saki or Tersis were to find out about this then they will surely get in the way of her plan tonight. She must absolutely avoid that. On the other hand, Kisei shrugs and glances at his terminal to check the time. ¡°It¡¯s still too early for breakfast but¡­¡­.it seems I can¡¯t avoid the bath huh. My bad, I¡¯m heading out.¡± ¡°Eh, yes. Please have a safe trip.¡± Kisei quickly pulled out a bag that has his change of clothes and waved to Schleer before heading to the door. After putting on a pair of sandals, Kisei opened the door¡­¡­¡­..to find Nora standing there with her arms crossed. ¡°!?¡± Kisei hurriedly shut the door behind him at that unexpected encounter. After all, he can¡¯t allow her to see Schleer inside. ¡°Good morning. Oya oya, what¡¯s wrong? You seem to be in quite a hurry [DESU].¡± ¡°Not at all, haha. It¡¯s nothing. Good morning to you too.¡± Kisei laughed and tried to deceive her but Nora inched closer to him with a cold smile. She then sniffed his body. ¡°Oya, Oya Oya Oya¡­¡­..how strange [DESU]. You reek of women you know Kisei-SAN. How strange indeed [DESU]¡­¡­¡± ¡°Ugeh.¡± She seems pretty confident so it appears that there¡¯s no use deceiving her here. Kisei thought about how to answer with a bitter expression for a while but in the end, he decided to obediently confess. ¡°I mean, how do I say this¡­..Umm¡­¡­.we shared the same futon for the night so¡­¡­.¡± ¡°Hooo¡± Nora¡¯s smile disappeared as she coldly glared at the door behind him. Kisei hurriedly put his hands on her shoulders. He can¡¯t afford to let her rush in and fight Schleer after all. ¡°B, but you sure came at great timing huh. It¡¯s so early so I didn¡¯t expect anyone to find out¨C¡­¡­¡± ¡°I was out exercising since early in the morning [DESU]. To be honest, I even saw that rotten former superior of mine left your room earlier. I was just testing you earlier [DESU].¡± ¡°Uwah, you¡¯ve seen that much huh¡­¡­..¡± She caught them red-handed. No excuses will work here. Thinking so, Kisei¡¯s face turned pale. ¡°Ah, don¡¯t worry [DESU]. I have no intention of blaming you. If a woman really intends to push a man down then there¡¯s no way for a man to resist. Besides, the other party is that rotten woman who¡¯s got nothing going for her aside from her brain after all. She must have blackmailed you or something right?¡± ¡°Uuu¡­¡­.¡± It was certainly blackmail but it¡¯s true that it was a pretty exciting experience for him to be sleeping sandwiched between two beautiful women too. It¡¯s not like he didn¡¯t feel good at all so¡­¡­.he felt bad to play the victim card here. ¡°Well¡­¡­.since it seems like you didn¡¯t go all the way I don¡¯t mind letting it go [DESU]. But¡­¡­.¡± Nora made a devilish grin. ¡°I don¡¯t like the smell of other women on my prey so I will have to scrub it off myself[DESU].¡± ¡°Nn? NNNnnn!?¡± Hearing that she intends to let it go, Kisei was confused. The fact that he¡¯s a little out of focus due to the lack of sleep and the stimulation he endured all night also doesn¡¯t help. While his face was turning red and blue alternately, Nora traces his cheek with her fingers. ¡°In short, I demand a mixed bath [DESU]¡­¡­.Ah, please don¡¯t worry. Since the male bath is solely reserved for you, no one will find out [DESU].¡± CH 161 Mixed Bath ¡°?©`??©`?©`¡± Nora hummed as she scrubbed Kisei¡¯s back. Her hand movement was gentle and careful as though she¡¯s polishing a delicate work of art. Only Nora and Kisei in this large men¡¯s bath. It is quite a privilege that he gets to have this luxurious bath all to himself but right now he doesn¡¯t have enough leeway to enjoy it. ¡°You are enjoying this aren¡¯t you¡­¡­..¡± Kisei said that with a tired voice while looking into the steamy and cloudy mirror in front of him. Despite being so moody earlier in front of his room, Nora seems to have a lot of fun right now. ¡°Being able to clean their prey is one of a woman¡¯s selling points [DESU]. How is it? If you become mine then I can do this for you every day you know. I can even throw in my dress-up service as a bonus too.¡± ¡°It¡¯s enough if my body¡¯s clean right¡­¡­.¡± ¡°To get this pretty after you looked like that until just earlier, your body is really unfair [DESU] ¡­¡­..¡± Nora shrugged and gently stroked Kisei¡¯s cheek from behind him. Her touch was so seductive that it seemed inappropriate for her age. ¡°Ugh¡­¡­.¡± When his body reacted on its own, Kisei hurriedly suppressed it. To be honest, her figure is way outside his strike zone but with what happened last night, he¡¯s quite pent up. Since he can¡¯t afford Nora to realize that, Kisei started counting prime numbers in his mind in an attempt to shift his focus away. ¡°Oh, there¡¯s bubbles on your cheeks [DESU]¡­¡­I¡¯m rinsing it okay¨C.¡± Nora grabbed the showerhead with a smile. When Kisei shuts his eyes, she washes his face with the warm water. Just like that, she proceeded to wash his whole body. ¡°UUuu.¡± Kisei let out a small moan when he opened his eyes. The water washed away the fog on the mirror in front of him and thanks to that, he can clearly see Nora¡¯s naked body behind him. She doesn¡¯t even have a piece of towel on so Kisei hurriedly turns his eyes away. ¡°How innocent [DESU]. There¡¯s no harm just from looking right?¡± ¡°Seriously, can¡¯t you be a little more modest¡­¡­..¡± ¡°If I¡¯m not modest at all then I would have cleaned the front of your body too you know?¡± ¡°Please, give me a break¡­¡­.¡± With a triumphant smile, Nora picks up a bottle of shampoo. ¡°I¡¯m going to wash your hair too [DESU]. Make sure to close your eyes okay.¡± ¡°Ahh, thanks.¡± He already realized that it¡¯s useless to resist so Kisei obediently shut his eyes. After pouring some shampoo out, Nora begins gently washing his hair. Since her touch was surprisingly gentle, it was pretty comfortable for him. ¡°How is it? If it hurts then you can tell me.¡± ¡°I¡¯m fine, it feels nice actually.¡± ¡°Hmm.¡± Hearing him say that made Nora sigh with a bewitching expression. However, with his eyes closed, Kisei didn¡¯t notice that. Nora continues to wash his hair for a while before rinsing the bubble off with the showerhead. Then, while pouring warm water onto his face, Nora continues to speak. ¡°That¡¯s the end of my service [DESU]. Now do the rest yourself.¡± After tapping his back, Nora sat down in the showering corner behind him. Apparently, he can wash his own body now. With a sigh of relief, Kisei quickly washed the places Nora hadn¡¯t touched before standing up and cleaned himself with the showerhead. ¡°Since I washed your back, it¡¯s only fair that you do the same for me [DESUNE]?¡± Kisei was trying to leave the place in a hurry but Nora didn¡¯t let that pass. Since he can¡¯t turn her down when she said it like that, Kisei crouches down behind her with a sigh. ¡°Here, do your best.¡± When she handed her a towel covered in foam, Kisei let out another sigh before shifting his gaze to her back. Her body is a young and delicate one. However, for some reason, he can spot old scars here and there on her back. ¡°These are¡­¡­.¡± Involuntarily, Kisei began tracing one noticeable scar with his finger. It must have required a lot of stitches to sew it up. ¡°Nnn.¡± Perhaps it feels ticklish for her, Nora¡¯s making a strange noise. ¡°Ah, sorry.¡± ¡°It¡¯s alright [DESU]. You can touch it as much as you want, I won¡¯t get angry.¡± ¡°Touching too much is bad in and of itself though¡­¡­¡± He doesn¡¯t know if Vuld people in general are okay with being touched or not but Nora¡¯s still a 14-year-old minor. Even if Vulds usually marry early, the minimum age for marriage is still 16 for both men and women. No, even if the law here allows it, his Terran sensibility still doesn¡¯t allow him to casually touch her body. ¡°That¡¯s a shame¡­¡­are you curious about my scars?¡± ¡°Well, yeah.¡± It¡¯s unpleasant for him to see a girl whose skin is ridden with scars so Kisei honestly admits. ¡°I was born in the slum [DESU]. I have been in a fight for as long as I can remember. It isn¡¯t just once or twice that I got stabbed with a knife you know.¡± ¡°¡­¡­somehow, that was terrible of me to pry huh. Sorry.¡± It was a topic that was too heavy for him to casually ask her about. Kisei¡¯s expression turned cloudy as he shyly scratched his cheek. ¡°Well, it was a long time ago [DESU]. I took the first chance I got and I became one of Nored¡¯s strongest ace [DESU]¡­¡­.well, since I betrayed the empire, I guess that¡¯s in the past too though.¡± Saying so, Nora laughed. ¡°Well, in the end, I was just a low-born cur [DESU]. I have no qualms biting back at my previous owner¡­¡­..but, even a mongrel like me still has my own pride and desires. That¡¯s why I¡¯m fighting for myself [DESU].¡± ¡°Your own pride and desires huh¡­¡­¡± Being one of the 4 Heavenlys, the strongest ace of the Nored empire, her life must have been pretty good before this. If she had continued with it until retirement, there¡¯s a good chance that she will receive a hereditary title or even be knighted. Since she had abandoned all that to help him, he needs to thank her properly. ¡°Leaving that aside, please hurry up and wash my back.¡± ¡°Ah, sorry, my bad.¡± In a hurry, Kisei started rubbing Nora¡¯s back with the towel. He now thinks that he should repay her even if it¡¯s little by little but¡­¡­..what he didn¡¯t notice was the smile on Nora¡¯s mouth. TLN: Kinda Yabai incoming tomorrow¡­¡­¡­..extreme Yabais are next week¡­¡­¡­.. There¡¯s still 140 chapters left until the end though, I dunno if it¡¯s going to get more intense in the future. CH 162 Marking Bathing in a hot spring in the morning may sound good but since he can¡¯t afford to spend his quality time in it so Kisei decided to quickly wash the sweat off himself and head to the banquet hall as if nothing had happened. ¡°Phew¡­..¡± With that being the case, Kisei quickly headed to the dressing room after washing his body and putting on a yukata. Nora is also changing behind him but he¡¯s trying his best to ignore that. Usually, he can keep his poker face but due to Diroze¡¯s plan last night, he can¡¯t afford to do the same today. ¡°Hmm?¡± Seeing Kisei making a difficult expression, Nora thought that it was both funny and unpleasant at the same time. After all, even if he¡¯s more flustered than usual, it¡¯s not due to her seduction tactic. ¡°I guess I should make another push huh.¡± After muttering to herself in a small voice, Nora tightened the sash on her yukata and silently sneaked behind Kisei. She then grabbed his sleeve and judo threw him on the floor. Perhaps because she was being considerate, the landing was soft and he didn¡¯t feel any pain or impact at all. Her technique was so sublime that Kisei didn¡¯t know what happened for a moment. ¡°Eh!?¡± With him on the floor, Nora straddled on top of Kisei¡¯s stomach. She then holds down his arms to prevent him from resisting and brings her face close to his. ¡°As I thought, it¡¯s irritating.¡± Said Nora with a bewitching smile. She abandoned the use of her strange suffix and is now speaking normally. ¡°W, what is¡­¡­¡± ¡°The fact that there is other women¡¯s smell on my prey.¡± Her rough breath touched his cheeks. The scene is like a predator holding down its prey. At such an action that doesn¡¯t allow him to think of her as a child, Kisei¡¯s heart begins to race. ¡°Fufu, it¡¯s nice¡­¡­.that look of yours. Even though you were that strong in battle, right now you are just like a little helpless lamb.¡± ¡°Who¡¯s a helpless lamb¡­¡­..¡± Even his voice doesn¡¯t have any power behind it. He tried to struggle out of her restraint but the difference in their strength made it clear that he can¡¯t escape. Certainly, being called a helpless lamb may not be that far off from the truth. ¡°Don¡¯t worry. Even if I¡¯m a wolf, I¡¯m still a good wolf. I won¡¯t eat you here. That said, I will make it clear that you are mine.¡± Saying so, Nora stuck her body to his. Just like that, she started rubbing her body on his. Perhaps she¡¯s trying to leave her scent on him. Feeling Nora¡¯s hot body over the thin yukata, Kise¡¯s body stiffened. His mind is divided between reason and carnal desire. ¡°Your heart is beating pretty fast huh. Are you scared? Or, did you get excited? Fufu¡­¡­¡± ¡°N, no, I just¡­¡­¡± ¡°It¡¯s no good you know. I told you that I won¡¯t be eating you today right?¡± Nora raised her body and said that with a refreshing expression before nibbling on his neck. She adjusts the power so that her bite is not too strong or too weak. On the other hand, the luscious pain that reached his brain made his body tremble. ¡°You like this stuff? Don¡¯t be shy, I can do it more you know.¡± Saying so, Nora gently bit down on his throat and traced her lips down to his collarbone. Seeing Kisei¡¯s reaction made her smile. Kisei¡¯s words are no longer coherent. It seems that his self-control has already flown out the window. ¡°Fufu¡­¡­how cute.¡± Even Nora herself finds this situation where she pushed down an older man and can ravage him as she pleased irresistible. She then took her lips away from his nape and instead placed it on his forehead. ¡°Nngh¡­¡­¡± To her, this is her second kiss. When she saw Kisei turn bright red, she smiled and kissed him again. A kiss on the forehead is the ultimate way to convey affection for Vuld. It¡¯s only reserved for a lover or a couple. In short, Nora is indicating that he¡¯s already hers. ¡°¡­¡­oh, time¡¯s up huh.¡± However, Nora suddenly frowned when she looked at the clock on the wall. If she takes too much time here then the other might get suspicious. She got so excited that she was about to go all the way here but her reason managed to hold her back. With a long sigh, she separated from Kisei¡¯s body with a regretful expression. ¡°What a shame, I will leave it at this for today [DESU]. If I go overboard then those two demons will seriously hunt me down after all.¡± Nora shrugged with a sarcastic smile. She then helped fix Kisei¡¯s yukata and helped him up. ¡°T, that was too much you know¡­¡­¡­¡± Although Kisei¡¯s tone sounded reproachful, there¡¯s a part of him that finds it regrettable as well. His feelings were clear enough to be discerned from his expression so Nora satisfactorily tapped his shoulder. ¡°Even I am aiming for you seriously [DESU]. I will do whatever is necessary even if it¡¯s a little reckless.¡± When Nora replied so with a carnivorous expression on her face, Chill ran down Kisei¡¯s back. He now fully understands that he can not escape no matter how hard he tries. This might be the end of his chastity. Kisei started to think so. ¡°Well, that¡¯s how it is [DESU]¡­¡­.make sure to prepare yourself okay, [Wicked Star]-SAN.¡± Saying so, Nora left the room while waving her hand at him. Left alone, Kisei let out a deep sigh and put his hand on his forehead. The feeling of Nora¡¯s lips still lingers there. ¡°Seriously, what am I going to do.¡± When he let out another sigh, loud noises suddenly echoed from outside the dressing room. Kisei hurriedly headed to the door to take a look and when he opened it¡­¡­¡­Valentina was there with blue veins on her forehead almost popping. ¡°Hey, good morning, My Love¡­¡­I¡¯m sorry, I let that pervert brat escape. It seems like she¡¯s been doing whatever she wanted in there huh¡­¡­¡­¡± TLN: ¡­¡­¡­¡­¡­more incoming CH 163 Content Warning for this week¡­.. Yabai incoming¡­¡­¡­.especially on Friday¡­¡­ -Mr.Graverobber Overwriting ¡°Oh, you don¡¯t have to worry, MyLove. I¡¯m not angry with you. Rather, you are the victim here right?¡± Valentina sighed after glaring in the direction Nora seemed to have fled to. She then turned back to Kisei and leaned close to him. ¡°Excuse me.¡± With that short word of apology, Valentina stares intensely at Kisei¡¯s chest. There are a number of Nora¡¯s tooth marks on his collarbone and neck. She didn¡¯t bite him that hard so the mark should disappear soon but¡­¡­..Valentina can¡¯t bear to let it pass. ¡°No, this is¡­¡­..¡± ¡°¡­¡­¡­.¡± Without hearing his excuse, Valentina pushed Kisei against the wall. Just like that, she slams her palm on the wall next to his face. It¡¯s the fabled ¡®Kabedon¡¯. ¡°I will punish that woman later. But more importantly, we should get rid of that bitch¡¯s smell first. Don¡¯t you think so?¡± ¡°No, I think your priority is a little weird here.¡± ¡°That might be so. But you are the one who made me this way you know?¡± Lowering her body down to his height, Valentina feverishly stared straight into Kisei¡¯s eyes. ¡°You brought this on yourself, My Love. You understand right?¡± ¡°D, don¡¯t be unreasonable¡­¡­..Uu.¡± With the conversation cut off, Valentina pushed her body against Kisei. She is about 20cm taller than him so his body seems almost like it was covered by hers. Moreover, her body was both soft and moderately firm¡­¡­.which made him incredibly excited. ¡°Seriously, both my sister and Nora, they just do whatever they want when I¡¯m right here. Thanks to them I¡¯m about to awaken to some weird fetish now you know.¡± The still composed part of Kisei¡¯s mind is wondering what this weird fetish is but after temptation after temptation, his reasoning capability has almost reached its limit. With a tall well-endowed beauty pressing her body against his like this, he no longer can afford to say anything. ¡°Oya, fufu. You seem quite strange today, My Love. What happened to your usual calm self I wonder?¡± Parting her body away from his, Valentina gently stroked Kisei¡¯s chin and asked that with a lustrous voice. However, she didn¡¯t even wait for his reply and lightly placed her lips against his. Kisei was surprised by the suddenness but Valentina was extremely elated. ¡°I just learned this recently. For Terran, it seems that a kiss on the lips is more meaningful right? It¡¯s okay, I didn¡¯t make you swallow my saliva.¡± Valentina often kissed his forehead but never his lips, unlike Diaroze. The competition from her sister has lowered her psychological hurdle. ¡°Nn, fh¡­¡­.one more time.¡± Twice and thrice, Valentina continued to kiss him. It feels different from the rich and deep kiss of Diaroze but it does feel good. With his eyes unfocused as though he¡¯s completely in heat, Kisei looks up at Valentina. ¡°If possible, I¡¯d love to kiss your whole body, that¡¯s how much I¡¯m passionate about you, My Love.¡± While staring into each other¡¯s eyes, Valentina gently traced the bite mark on Kisei with her finger. They are marks left by a woman on a man she loves. And they are igniting her flame of lust. ¡°I will start here. Something like this, I will just overwrite them with my own.¡± Saying so, Valentina placed her lips on one of the bite marks and sucked it hard that it left a mark. And not only one, she kept doing it to each and every mark. It would count as an indirect kiss with Nora each time she does it but she was so aroused that it completely escaped her mind. ¡°U, Uuu¡­¡­..¡± ¡°What¡¯s wrong, My Love. You are acting too cute today you know? I wouldn¡¯t mind if you resist a little¡ª¨C¡± ¡°Oi.¡± A terribly cold voice rang from behind Valentina. She turned back in a hurry only to be greeted with Saki who has already transformed into a demon. ¡°¡­¡­¡­shoot.¡± Valentina¡¯s expression immediately froze as she wondered what to do next. To be frank, her desire is on the verge of overflowing. She¡¯s seriously considering knocking Saki out to continue on to the second round but¡­¡­. ¡°The hell do you think you are doing? EHHH!¡± Valentina¡¯s fighting spirit literally vanished as Saki terrifyingly placed her hand on her sword. While internally cursing as to why Saki is carrying a sword around in a resort, Valentina parted her body from Kisei. ¡°¡­¡­.¡± There, Kisei whose face has turned bright red like a boiled octopus simply collapsed on the floor. Even he has reached his own limit, in a lot of ways. Using the moment Saki¡¯s attention turned toward him, Valentina started sprinting. ¡°Apologies, My Love! I will definitely make up for this later!¡± ¡°O, Oi! Don¡¯t run away damn it!¡± Saki shouted after her on reflex but she couldn¡¯t just ignore Kisei who had collapsed on the floor and give chase. She hurriedly approached him and checked his condition. ¡°O, Oi, you okay?¡± ¡°I, I¡¯m fine. Just a little dizzy.¡± Kisei replied while standing up. However, Saki immediately frowned upon seeing the tooth and kiss marks on his body. ¡°What did she do to you¡­¡­..damn it, I won¡¯t let her off this time.¡± Saki begrudgingly cursed. It appeared that she mistook both of them to be Valentina¡¯s work. ¡°Are you really okay? Your face is bright red you know.¡± ¡°Y, yeah¡­¡­..I just couldn¡¯t sleep much last night.¡± ¡°¡­¡­¡­.seriously.¡± Saki scratched her cheeks and tightly hugged Kisei¡¯s body. It seems that she¡¯s blaming his condition on Valentina¡¯s assault. Saki is good at comforting children but instead of being comforted, Kisei is having a hard time right now. Although she¡¯s not as well-endowed as the two Noredian princesses, Saki also has a pretty good style. Being hugged tightly by someone like that when he¡¯s like this would obviously make him go crazy. ¡°Get some rest in your room okay. I will bring you the food later.¡± ¡°T, Thank you¡­¡­.¡± Kisei gave Saki a nod after she released him. ¡°For the time being, I have to catch that woman and make her suffer some pain first. Will you be alright walking back by yourself?¡± ¡°I¡¯m okay.¡± ¡°Alright, good boy¡­¡­..¡± After patting Kisei¡¯s head, Saki ran full speed out of the room. Her plan is to call Tersis to help her catch Valentina. Left alone, Kisei began walking back to his room. He forgot to change at the dressing room but right now he can not afford to care about that. ¡°D, damn it¡­¡­what¡¯s going on today. At this rate, I¡¯m going to¡­¡­.¡± Kisei kept mumbling his complaints as he walked down the corridor but suddenly, a pair of hands grabbed him from the darkness. Just like that, he was dragged into an empty storage room. ¡°You seem to be having quite a rough time, Nn? My beloved Master.¡± Said Diaroze with a brilliant smile on her face. CH 164 Temptation ¡°Wh, what are you doing¨C¡­..¡± Kisei¡¯s body stiffened as he took a step away from Diaroze who¡¯s clearly planning something. Even though he kind of forgot it because they have hung out recently, he still remembers how she tied him up and whipped him in the past. ¡°Master, you shouldn¡¯t suspect your own slave like that you know? I¡¯m so vulnerable that my head would fly off at the press of a button after all.¡± Diaroze crossed her arms and said that. Her self-important attitude doesn¡¯t appeal to the fact that she¡¯s his slave after all. ¡°You know full well that I won¡¯t press that kind of button right!¡± ¡°Kufufufu, I¡¯m busted huh.¡± After all, this is the same man who has a strict no-killing rule even while fighting on the battlefield. Besides, from her interaction with him, Diaroze truly believes that Kisei is a kind-hearted person. That¡¯s why she¡¯s taking advantage of his kindness like this. ¡°So, what are you going to do? Bringing me into a place like this¡­¡­.¡± Kisei started looking around. They were in a small, dimly lit, storage in the corner of the corridor. There is no sign of other people around and he can feel nothing but anxiety. ¡°Umu, I just think that it¡¯s time for the big reveal.¡± ¡°Big reveal?¡± Diaroze shrugged at Kisei who repeated her word back with a smile. ¡°Don¡¯t you think it¡¯s strange? You got caught by that stray dog right after you left your room and when you thought that you were finally free, my dull little sister happened to catch you immediately. Not to mention that timely rescue¡­¡­.¡± ¡°¡­¡­! Don¡¯t tell me!?¡± Hearing Diaroze, it finally dawned on Kisei. Certainly, the sequence of events that happened today is just too unnatural. ¡°It¡¯s all my work. How was it? Did you have fun?¡± ¡°Wh, what fun? In the first place, why would you¡­¡­..¡± Kisei couldn¡¯t understand what Diaroze would gain from having other women make an advance on him. In the past, Diaroze expressed her desire to monopolize him in the kidnapping incident. That¡¯s why he can¡¯t help but wonder why she would do a 180 now. ¡°You don¡¯t know?¡± ¡°I don¡¯t.¡± Diaroze¡¯s smile turned into a bewitching one at his answer. She then put her lips next to his ear and started whispering. ¡°A-pun-ish-ment.¡± Her voice sent a thrilling pleasure down Kisei¡¯s spine. Diaroze then continued speaking with a voice that¡¯s a mixture of shame and arousal. ¡°If you want this dog to know her place you just have to teach it with your own hands, Master.¡± ¡°Y, You!¡± Kisei was about to start scolding her on reflex but upon seeing the excitement on Diaroze¡¯s face, he shut his mouth. She¡¯s obviously tempting him here. Honestly, Kisei¡¯s reason is about to reach its limit so he might end up really going all the way. However, it¡¯s impossible for a Terran to push a Vuld down. ¡°It¡¯s already come to this so I will just say it, I¡¯m a Terran so¡­¡­..¡± ¡°It would be hard for you to physically mess up a Vuld, that¡¯s what you think right?¡± ¡°¡­..yeah.¡± Kisei was at a loss for words at her straightforward reply. Still, why is she trying to tempt him even though she already knows that? But before Kisei could ask her, Diaroze simply replies. ¡°But that doesn¡¯t apply to me.¡± ¡°¡­..what are you saying.¡± ¡°It¡¯s simple really. You see, I prefer being messed up by you. Right now, I would never think of touching you myself.¡± When she puts it like that then it¡¯s exactly the case. With Diaroze¡¯s disposition, she would remain on the receiving end no matter what he does. ¡°Master can just whip me, mock me, or mess me up until I can¡¯t move. That way, Master wouldn¡¯t have to worry about me going overboard in return right.¡± Her reply painted a clear picture for him. Because of that, it was quite persuasive. No, it¡¯s still quite a ridiculous thing to picture but to Kisei whose thought process has dulled from the lack of sleep, her words were pretty convincing. ¡°That¡¯s the face I wanted to see. Umu, Umu, that¡¯s it. I¡¯m a lamb and you are the wolf, Master. There¡¯s no way a lamb can resist a wolf right? Kufufufu¡­¡­¡± With that mysterious laughter at the end, Diaroze pulls out a thin and small paper box from her bosom and glances seductively at Kisei. Seeing it, Kisei¡¯s expression immediately changed. ¡°I thought that this might happen so I prepared this for you. With this, you can do whatever you want to me and don¡¯t have to worry about a thing. Right?¡± What¡¯s she saying when she set all this up herself? Kisei thought so but he doesn¡¯t have enough leeway to retort right now. ¡°That being said, doing this in broad daylight wouldn¡¯t be good for us. We would be putting the cart before the horse if we get caught by those busybodies after all¡­¡­.¡± ¡°¡­¡­..¡± With Kisei¡¯s silence, Diaroze was confident in her victory. ¡°Tonight, I want Master to leave your door unlocked. Obviously, you know what this means right?¡± Said Diaroze with a seductive gaze as Kisei intensely stared at her. Although she¡¯s calling herself a lamb, the atmosphere she¡¯s carrying is obviously that of a predator. ¡°¡­¡­ok.¡± ¡°Kufufufu¡­¡­.¡± With a muffled laugh, Diaroze lightly kissed Kisei on his forehead and then his lips. Just like that, she turned back and skipped out of the storage room. She left, Kisei gazed at her back with a sensual look. CH 165 Night Crawling (YOBAI) That night, Kisei was waiting in his futon in agony. When he checked the time using his mobile terminal, it was already midnight. With a small sigh, Kisei crossed his arms. ¡°I¡¯m too early? I¡¯m early right¡­¡­.¡± He¡¯s anxious. He¡¯s anxious but this is his first time. It would be a lie if he says that he¡¯s not looking forward to it at all. It was when he started groaning in his futon that the door was opened without a knock. ¡°Sorry for the wait.¡± Said the person he¡¯s been waiting for¡ª-, Diaroze. However, there¡¯s someone he didn¡¯t expect standing behind her. ¡°E, excuse me¡­¡­¡± It was Schleer. Her face is bright red and her behavior is extremely suspicious. Seeing her like that, Kisei¡¯s blushed face immediately went pale. ¡°Eh, You, why!?¡± Even though his words didn¡¯t form properly, Diaroze understood what he meant. She understood but she simply ignored him and slapped Schleer¡¯s butt. ¡°Now go! Just the fact that he left the door unlocked and waiting for us means that the victory is already ours! We only need the last push!¡± ¡°Y, yea!¡± Prompted by Diaroze, Schleer plunged toward Kisei and immediately pushed him down. The difference in their physical strength is clear so Kisei obviously can not resist. ¡°¡­¡­..¡± ¡°¡­¡­..¡± The two stared at each other without saying anything. The inside of both Kisei and Schleer¡¯s heads has already gone pure white. With a somewhat fed-up attitude, Diaroze slapped Schleer¡¯s butt again. ¡°Just do it already!¡± ¡°Guh¡­..¡± Schleer turned around and looked behind her with a grudge but she can¡¯t bring herself to say anything back as it was thanks to Diaroze that she managed to reach this point. ¡°U, Umm, I¡¯m sorry. I ended up forcing you down like this.¡± With her moist eyes, Schleer stared into Kisei¡¯s eyes. ¡°B, But, Uhh¡­..my contract with Kisei-san will be over soon. That¡¯s why I was scared that we might get separated¡­¡­..¡± ¡°¡­..certainly, if we win the next battle, this war might come to an end after all.¡± Kisei replied while pretending to be calm. The Nored empire still has some leeways and there should be at least another major battle before they can put an end to this war. However, if the Nored empire dispatched their main fleet, it would be difficult for them to win¡­¡­¡­still, whether they win or lose, it¡¯s true that the war is nearing its end. ¡°I¡­¡­.I can¡¯t imagine a life without you anymore. I love you! Kisei-san!¡­¡­.that¡¯s why I want to spend the rest of my life with you¡­¡­..in other words, I want to marry you. That¡¯s what I think.¡± ¡°¡­¡­¡­.¡± Schleer went all out and confessed. Kisei knows that she has had feelings for him for a while and remembers that she has expressed her wish to marry him before. But this time, when she said it right to his face, he couldn¡¯t help but get embarrassed. This time, Kisei¡¯s blushing face took a completely different kind of meaning. ¡°So, Umm¡­¡­¡­will you, accept me?¡± It¡¯s clear that it won¡¯t end with just his acceptance if he accepts her proposal in this kind of situation. The flame of arousal was clearly behind her eyes as evidence. Because of that, Kisei¡¯s body stiffened up a little. After all, intercourse with a Vuld is not something that he can lightly walk into. However, before he realized it, Diaroze had already placed her lips close to his ear. ¡°Don¡¯t worry, you have me here. If this woman goes overboard then I will stop her myself.¡± Kisei¡¯s iris narrowed in surprise but perhaps because of the tension and her aroused state, it seems that the existence of Diaroze did not even register in Schleer¡¯s mind. Without minding her at all, Schleer continues to speak. ¡°If, you don¡¯t want me¡­¡­.then please say it. I will leave the room right away.¡± Schleer shivered and said that in an uneasy tone. It¡¯s not like she wants Kisei¡¯s for his look alone. She wants both his mind and body. If he refuses her then she has enough resolve to withdraw herself. ¡°If, if you don¡¯t want me¡­¡­¡­then I will not bother Kisei-san ever again. I swear I will not act obsessive over you too¡­¡­..¡± Schleer looked like she was about to cry but Diaroze started joyfully laughing. She then whispered into his ear with a seductive voice again. ¡°Are you alright with this? Letting this woman go I mean. If you just reach out then she can simply be yours you know?¡± It was like a devil¡¯s whisper. With a grin, the devil continues. ¡°You don¡¯t have to worry about a thing. You can simply do whatever you want, Master.¡± She told him that he can do whatever he wants but it was clear that she was guiding him into a certain direction. However, Kisei can not afford to realize that at the moment. His reason which was on the verge of collapsing due to the temptation he had endured since last night has completely been snuffed out. Using his instinct alone, Kisei placed his own lips on Schleer¡¯s. ¡°¡­¡­¡­..¡± While expressing her joy, Schleers pours her saliva which contains the mixture of aphrodisiac into his mouth. Now, there¡¯s no going back. ¡ª¡ª¡ª¡ª¡ª¡ª¡ª¡ª¡ª¡ª¡ª TLN: Who can resist with a devil whispering in their ear¡­¡­. CH 166 Morning Kisei woke up surrounded by a pleasant warmth. When he looked around while rubbing his eyes, he found the still sleeping Schleer hugging him with not a single piece of cloth on her. Naturally, Kisei himself is also naked. ¡°I, I¡¯ve done it now¡­¡­..¡± While still being hugged by Schleer, Kisei held his head. It¡¯s not like he was drunk so he clearly remembers what he did last night. Even the thought in his head was, [Last night was fun]. He was completely swept away by the mood and let his body to his instinct. Not to mention that it all happened after she practically proposed to him last night¡­¡­ ¡°What have I done¡­..¡± ¡°Kukuku, well, don¡¯t overthink it.¡± When the anguished Kisei heard that voice, he immediately turned his eyes to look. For some reason, Diaroze was lying face down on the tatami mat with her butt raised high by herself. Naturally, she¡¯s also stark naked. ¡°It¡¯s not that rare to see people¡¯s life turned into a mess after they gave in to their sexual desire. Still, it doesn¡¯t mean that things always go wrong because of that. That¡¯s right, I¡¯m the prime example¡­¡­.¡± Her words seem pretty deep but it felt strangely shallow when she said that in such a stupid posture so Kisei narrowed his eyes at her halfway through. ¡°¡­¡­how did you end up like that?¡± ¡°Well, my ass hurt from all Master¡¯s spanking last night. It was wonderful though, Kufufufu¡­¡­.¡± Kisei held his head again. He now remembered what he did. Of course, it was at Diaroze¡¯s request. At first, it was a battle with Schleer but midway through, Diaroze began to join them in earnest. Even if she strongly insisted him for some of the acts, it¡¯s still true that he did a lot of things to her. ¡°S, sorry.¡± ¡°What are you saying, I can¡¯t wait to go at it again next time. If you feel guilty at this level then we can¡¯t move on to the good stuff you know.¡± ¡°¡­¡­.there¡¯s next time huh.¡± ¡°You¡¯ve already crossed the line. I don¡¯t think there¡¯s any reason for you to hold back anymore though?¡± Diaroze stood up from the tatami mat with a grin before placing a kiss on Kisei¡¯s forehead. ¡°Nnf, this is nice. I¡¯ve never thought I would be able to feel this content as a POW¡­¡­¡­it¡¯s still kinda irritating with another woman in the mix though.¡± Although her words were a little mean, Diaroze¡¯s eyes when she glanced at Schleer were gentle. Returning her gaze to Kisei, she patted his head and snuggled to his side. Plus, even though they are both naked, Kisei doesn¡¯t feel embarrassed now. ¡°Master too, your body is doing better than you expected right? I did stop this clumsy woman when she started going overboard after all.¡± Her words jump-started his memory from last night and Kisei blushed a little. He certainly had a lot of trouble with Schleer, if it was one-on-one then he certainly might develop a case of gynophobia. A Vuld woman can turn into a beast at the flip of a switch after all. ¡°Y, yeah, well¡­.my body feels heavy but, that¡¯s all. It went better than I expected actually¡­¡­.¡± ¡°I will say this first, I¡¯m an exception okay. This clumsy woman is actually pretty normal. I think my idiot little sister and that Makishima samurai woman should be similar. If you still value your life then don¡¯t go sleeping with some weird woman okay.¡± ¡°Just saying you know, this happened because I accepted her confession¡­¡­..can you not put it like I am going to cheat on her¡­¡­..¡± Of course, Kisei is pretty upright so he wouldn¡¯t just go around sleeping with some random women after he lost his virginity. However, when she heard that, Diaroze immediately made a suggestive laugh. ¡°What¡¯s funny¡­¡­.¡± Certainly, having a relationship with two women at the same time could be considered dishonest. However, in this specific case, Schleer and Diaroze planned it together. That¡¯s why Kisei doesn¡¯t have any reason to feel guilty. ¡°Well, don¡¯t worry about that. I¡¯m a little thirsty so, I will get some water¡­¡­¡± With a sigh, Kisei tried to get out of the futon but Schleer who¡¯s still sleeping soundly doesn¡¯t let him go. While still hugging him tight from behind, she started to sleep talking. ¡°No, he¡¯s mine¡­¡­..¡± ¡°¡­¡­¡­¡± ¡°Umu, let your slave handle this.¡± After patting Kisei¡¯shead, Diaroze stood up, took a bottle of mineral water from the fridge, and poured it into a glass for Kisei. After receiving the glass from her, Kisei drinks the water while still lying down. ¡°Thanks. But, we are in a bind aren¡¯t we¡­¡­¡­..¡± If it¡¯s just the three of them then basking in the afterglow for a while longer wouldn¡¯t be so bad. However, they can¡¯t afford to do that in a group trip like this. If the others were to know about this then it will definitely turn into a big deal. ¡°Speaking of, take a look at this.¡± After looking at him with an evil smile, Diaroze picked up his mobile terminal which was placed at the bedside. She operated it for a moment and after something appeared on its screen, she showed it to Kisei. ¡°This is¡­¡­.¡± It was the picture of Kisei and Schleer sleeping while hugging each other with Diaroze smiling while making a peace sign at their side. Naturally, they were all naked. Perhaps she secretly took it before he woke up. ¡°Why did you take that kind of photo!!¡± Kisei was panicking as expected but Diaroze¡¯s smile continued to widen. ¡°I sent this to Makishima Saki a while ago. She should be enraging right about now so prepare yourself okay.¡± At that ridiculous statement, Kisei was utterly speechless. At the same time, the door to his room was slammed with tremendous force. ¡°Oi, you bastard! Open up!¡± ¡°AHHHHHH, WHAT ARE YOU DOING!!¡± Thus began the Shuraba. TLN: Nope still not over the Yabai field yet¡­¡­tune in next week CH 167 Shuraba ¡°I will get the door so you should quickly get dressed, Master.¡± Saying so, she pulls Kisei out of Schleer¡¯s embrace and stands him up while Saki relentlessly continues to knock on the door. Diaroze seemed extremely calm despite the fact that this might end in a bloody mess if they handle it poorly. ¡°And you, wake up already! Seriously, how happy-go-lucky are you.¡± ¡°Ugeh.¡± Schleer was casually woken up by Diaroze¡¯s kick. Even if she was sound asleep until earlier, anyone would wake up from that. Taking her mind off Schleer, Diaroze put on her yukata like a bathrobe and headed to the door. ¡°Umu, good morning. Your blood pressure seems to be out of control though, are you okay?¡± Diaroze opened the door with a nonchalant attitude. On the other hand, Saki furiously glared at her. ¡°Oi, Oi, Oi, don¡¯t mess with me now. Do you realize what you¡¯ve done, EHH!¡± ¡°Kukuku, well, don¡¯t get so angry. Anyway, come on in. I won¡¯t run you know.¡± ¡°You don¡¯t have to tell me to!¡± Saki forcibly pushed Diaroze aside and entered. For some reason, Nora was standing behind her with a strangely joyful expression. Since they were assigned the same room, she probably followed Saki here. ¡°It stinks! At least ventilate the room a little will you!¡± ¡°Ah, yes, ma¡¯am.¡± At Saki¡¯s harsh tone, the still half asleep Schleer opened the window in panic. However, to prevent falling, the window could only open a little so Kisei who managed to somehow put his yukata on in time walked up to the wall to turn on the ventilation fan. ¡°You don¡¯t have to move! Come to me!¡± However, Saki caught him and sat him next to herself. Kisei was more worried about how she sat him down but Saki looked at him with a worried expression. ¡°Are you okay? Did they do something awful to you¡­¡­?¡± ¡°I, I¡¯m fine, yeah.¡± Kisei replied so with a pale face but Saki simply patted his head while glaring at Schleer and Diaroze. In her head, it¡¯s impossible for Kisei to invite the two over himself. That¡¯s why it¡¯s more likely that the two did something to coax him into the act. ¡°Sit.¡± ¡°Yes¡­¡­¡± Perhaps feeling guilting about it, Schleer obediently sat down in front of Saki. On the other hand, Diaroze sat down with a smile. Lastly, there was Nora who sat down cross-legged beside Kisei before tapping his shoulder. Now, he¡¯s sandwiched between Saki and Nora. ¡°You smell of other women again. I will have to overwrite it with mine later [DESUYO]. ¡°¡­¡­.¡± Nora whispered that into Kisei¡¯s ear. His shoulders began to tremble. Despite the situation, Nora seems to be in an oddly good mood. However, ignoring her, Saki immediately started questioning Schleer and Diaroze. ¡°I will have no excuse. Tell me what you guys are trying to achieve by doing this¡± Saki intensely glared at the two. On the receiving end, Schleer shrank back but Diaroze simply looked straight back into her eyes. ¡°Everything was for our and Master¡¯s happy future. It¡¯s not like we hold Master at gunpoint or anything after all.¡± ¡°A happy future!?¡± Saki was about to snap at that extremely selfish reason but before that, Diaroze pulled out a piece of paper and showed it to her. Saki glared at the paper with a frown but her expression immediately changed. ¡°¡­¡­this is.¡± A marriage registration. A Calencian one at that. Diaroze is presenting something like that to Saki with a grin. ¡°Even I don¡¯t want to monopolize him alone you know. So, how about it, wanna take a bite?¡± ¡°NnEHHHH!?¡± Schleer was so surprised that she almost stood up but it seems the shock Saki received was greater than that. With a bead of sweat trickling down her forehead, her gaze alternates between the paper and Diaroze¡¯s face. ¡°You flew in rage and ran over after all. Was that only because of your self-righteousness? Or maybe, you want him as well? Either way, we can cooperate.¡± ¡°Th, that was sudden you bastard. You are trying to recruit me and make me your accomplice right? I won¡¯t fall for it. I¡¯ve already sworn that I will protect him after all¡­¡­..¡± Saki¡¯s gaze, as she looked at Kisei, started to be filled with reluctance. On the other hand, Diaroze¡¯s confident attitude did not collapse. ¡°I¡¯ve been thinking this for a long while now but this man is too reckless. He flies into a battle alone as if it was the most natural thing to do. Moreover, the more challenging the battle becomes the more this man gets excited from it. I feel bad for Master but I want to stop this behavior of his.¡± Feeling that the spear is now pointing in his direction, Kisei looked at Diaroze with surprise. However, without breaking her gaze, she continues. ¡°If we give him a big family then even Master won¡¯t try anything too dangerous in the future. My goal is to have all of us marry Master together and have him quit being a mercenary. That¡¯s my plan.¡± ¡°Eh, I mean, what¡­¡­..¡± Fighting war is his life. That¡¯s why when she said that she wants to take that away, Kisei started to panic. ¡°My head has a bomb attached to it so the moment Master dies, my head would fly as well. But, even without such a thing, it¡¯s more than likely that I would just commit suicide if he dies. I love Master. Which is why I want him to quit that dangerous job of his.¡± ¡°¡­..even I can see that.¡± Of course, Saki doesn¡¯t want Kisei to die. With that shared sentiment, Saki¡¯s anger immediately vanished. ¡°But I¡¯m strong right¡­¡­.I won¡¯t die that easily.¡± On the other hand, Kisei who felt that the flow of the conversation had turned against him hurriedly stood up and appealed so. However, this time Diaroze gives him a stern look. ¡°Certainly, Master is strong. Your strength is enough to overcome careful planning and clever strategy. However, you are not invincible. How I once defeated you and took you prisoner is proof enough.¡± At that time, if Diaroze¡¯s goal was his life instead of his body, he would have already been dead. Diaroze takes pride in being a genius tactician but she¡¯s not confident enough to say that no one else can come up with the same strategy as her. In the first place, using hostages is like the basics of the basics. ¡°Uu¡­..¡± When she brought that up, Kisei also couldn¡¯t argue back. He slowly sat down and nodded. ¡°Uhh¡­..even I know that Kisei-san values fighting on the battlefield very much. You always seem like you have a lot of fun whenever you go out to fight after all.¡± Said Schleer who raised her face up with a resolute look. ¡°But I can¡¯t bear to see you put yourself in danger. Especially when you fight in a place I can¡¯t reach.¡± Schleer belongs to the royal family. She can¡¯t afford to accompany a mercenary like Kisei into battle every time. Besides, even if it gets dangerous, she is not strong enough to protect him. That was a fact she didn¡¯t want to admit but she has no other choice but to admit it. That¡¯s why she¡¯s resorting to using forcible means to enact this selfishness of hers. ¡°¡­¡­I guess, you are right.. Argh, damn it. It seems I took my damn time huh. It was almost too late for me to realize too.¡± With a deep sigh, Saki stood up and took the marriage registration from Diaroze¡¯s hand. She then heads to the table in the corner of the room and checks its content. Since polygamy is common in Vuld society, there are a lot of columns for the [WIVES] to write their names in. After gritting her teeth for a moment, Saki signed her name on the second column from the top. ¡°This is what you want right. I like this guy too. I love him. I can¡¯t just leave him alone anymore.¡± Saying so, she stood up and handed the paper over to Kisei. On the other hand, Kisei received it with cold sweat all over his body. ¡°I¡­¡­want to start a family with you. But, do you want to have a family with me?¡± ¡°¡­¡­¡­.¡± Kisei started pondering on it. In ten years or even twenty years¡­¡­.after he gets old. Can he picture himself with Saki at his side? ¡­¡­.he can. She¡¯s a little blunt but she¡¯s a woman who he would always feel good to have by his side. As a wife, she¡¯s more than perfect for him. However¡­¡­¡­.¡± ¡°¡­¡­signing this means that I have to quit being a mercenary right¡­¡­.?¡± ¡°¡­..yeah.¡± ¡°¡­¡­..¡± After thinking about it for a while, Kisei stood up and quickly fixed his yukata. It was a mess since he was panicking when he put it on. He then looked at Schleer, Saki, and Diaroze. At his side, Nora, who he couldn¡¯t bear to meet eye with, also looked at him with a frown. ¡°Let me, think about it for a while.¡± Saying so, Kisei tottered out of the room. TLN: Not much of a shuraba¡­¡­.still, that escalated quick¡­.. CH 168 Complex About 10 minutes after that, Kisei was sitting crestfallen alone in the resort lounge. In his mind were questions that he can¡¯t just find the right answer to. Frankly, he himself has no qualm marrying them. Having spent the night with Schleer and Diaroze has made him a little more confident. With Diaroze¡¯s help, he probably wouldn¡¯t lose his life in intercourse with Vulds. ¡°But to quit being a mercenary is another thing entirely right¡­¡­.¡± Kisei groaned. He doesn¡¯t want to quit and he doesn¡¯t want to leave the battlefield. With his arms crossed, he continued to ponder on his choices but he still couldn¡¯t make a decision. ¡°Oya, My Lord? Good Morning.¡± Then, a person called out to him. It¡¯s Tersis. She¡¯s carrying a wooden sword and he can see the sweat on her body. She probably has just returned from outdoor training. ¡°Ah, Unn¡­¡­good morning.¡± Hearing his dull reply, Tersis raised her eyebrows. Leaving the hallway, Tersis entered the lounge and sits down next to Kisei. ¡°What are you doing in a place like this?¡± When she asked so, the smell of her sweat drifted to his nose. Normally, you would regard such a smell as unpleasant but perhaps the other party is a beautiful woman, the smell felt strangely sexy. Kisei immediately shook his head to vanquish the dirty thoughts. It seems that he¡¯s still a little strange due to the repeated temptation from yesterday. ¡°Well.¡± Kisei reflexively tried to avoid the topic but he immediately changed his mind and chose to consult Tersis instead. ¡°I need to consult you about something. Will you listen to my story?¡± ¡°Yes, of course.¡± Perhaps she intended to do so from the beginning, Tersis agreed with a smile. She may be a battle maniac but she¡¯s not crazy. She¡¯s actually quite a considerate person. ¡°Actually, umm¡­.I was proposed to. By multiple people.¡± ¡°Then perhaps congratulations are in order?¡± If this was Valentina she probably would have made a scene already but Tersis only replied calmly. A man being proposed to by multiple women is pretty much a norm in Vuld society so she doesn¡¯t think there was anything wrong about it at all. After all, just like normal Terran marriage, it would smoothly proceed as long as the involved party gave their consent. ¡°Yes, I¡¯m happy with the proposal. Since I¡¯m a pretty weird guy¡­¡­¡­I¡¯m actually glad that they have that kind of feeling for me. But, they also said that if I were to accept, I would have to give up being a mercenary too.¡± ¡°Oh my¡­¡­¡­¡± Tersis was surprised. She¡¯s also a combat enthusiast like Kisei so she can understand his feelings. ¡°Why would they demand such a thing?¡± ¡°They said they don¡¯t want me to do anything dangerous.¡± ¡°I see. I certainly can try my best to protect My Lord on the battlefield but nothing is certain in battle¡­¡­..it¡¯s true that something might happen to you.¡± Tersis replied with a difficult expression. ¡°But My Lord, you do not want to leave the battlefield correct?¡± ¡°Yeah.¡± ¡°Fumu¡­¡­.¡± Tersis crossed her arms and pondered. For her, fighting alongside Kisei on the battlefield is her joy. However, that was simply her selfish desire. Even if Kisei leaves the battlefield behind him, she would follow him anywhere as his knight. ¡°¡­¡­One question if I may, My Lord. For what reason do you pilot a striker?¡± ¡°Nn?¡­¡­.Nnn, because it¡¯s fun, I think?¡± ¡°Then, why is it fun for you to pilot a striker?¡± ¡°¡­¡­¡­¡± To Tersis¡¯s follow-up question, Kisei turned silent. ¡°Personally, I stepped into the battlefield to improve my ability. I wish to fight stronger foes and test myself. It is so much fun for me that I can¡¯t have enough. But that¡¯s only me. What is it you get from the battlefield, My Lord?¡± ¡°¡­¡­I.¡± Kisei looked straight into Tersis¡¯s eyes with his determination. ¡°I am nothing If I can¡¯t ride a striker. I¡¯m clumsy, my head is bad, and I¡¯m physically weak, but if I have a striker then¡­¡­¡± ¡°You would be stronger than anyone, right.¡± With a grin, Tersis replied so. ¡°¡­..the reason why anyone ever said that they need me was because they saw how I am on a striker.¡± Kisei thinks that his only selling point is his ability as a pilot. He is confident in his pilot skills but nothing else. He is a pilot, nothing more nothing less. Giving up riding a striker would be like abandoning his reason for being. That¡¯s the complex he has. ¡°That¡¯s why I¡­¡­.¡± ¡°2 points, My Lord. You have misunderstood 2 points.¡± Tersis said in a gentle voice. ¡°First, you are still needed by someone even if you are not on a striker. After all, they did propose to you. They wouldn¡¯t do that if they do not wish to spend the rest of their life with you. And that is regardless of your ability as a pilot.¡± ¡°¡­¡­¡­¡± ¡°Second. Even if you leave the battlefield, you can still ride a striker. There are still many roles you can play such as a test pilot or a combat instructor. It¡¯s not like you can not get serious unless you fight a real battle, no?¡± Hearing Tersis¡¯s words, Kisei¡¯s expression turned to a surprised one. He had never thought of using his skills that way before. ¡°¡­¡­I see, that¡¯s true.¡± When she put it like that for him, everything became simple. After making his decision, Kisei stands up. ¡°Thank you very much. I managed to clear the doubts out of my mind now.¡± ¡°Then?¡± ¡°Yes, it seems it¡¯s about time I throw in the towel.¡± Tersis smiled at his old and familiar proverb. She then clapped her hands as though she remembered something. ¡°Ahh, come to think of it¡­¡­.if My Lord is going to get married then may I be allowed to request one thing?¡± ¡°What is it?¡± Feeling refreshed, Kisei asked back with a smile. ¡°I do not mind if it¡¯s after things settle down with the others, but I wish to bear your offspring as well.¡± ¡°¡­¡­Ha?¡± His face stiffened and Kisei himself was taken aback. However, Tersis did not shy away and simply continued to state her request. ¡°After all, I am also an aristocrat. I need a successor as well. That¡¯s why I¡¯d like to ask My Lord¡¯s help in that regard.¡± ¡°I mean, why me?¡± Kisei believed in Tersis because she had never sexually harassed or tried to seduce him before. That¡¯s why he was so shocked by her request that could completely undermine his trust in her. ¡°I do not know what kind of feeling love is, however, I can say that this is not a request I would ask just anyone of. If I am going to bear a child then I feel that I want it to be yours. A child of someone who has completely defeated me.¡± ¡°¡­¡­..¡± Kisei looked back at Tersis with an extremely awkward gaze. Her words sound almost like a proposal but there was not a trace of any bashfulness in her. ¡°Of course, I do not wish to interfere with My Lord¡¯s marriage life. You do not have to include me in the marriage register.¡± ¡°You are fine with being a single mother?¡± Kisei asked in resignation. ¡°Mmm¡­..but, I still need my own successor. If I allow the child of either my elder or younger sister to be my successor then it would not be fair to the vassals who have supported me.¡± In the end, Tersis is an aristocrat through and through. She has to take into account the matter of her own house as well. As it doesn¡¯t seem like she¡¯s going to yield in this, Kisei let out a long sigh. ¡°Then please come with me. Nothing will change even if I add another bride to the list after all¡­¡­.¡± ¡°Ohh, you have my gratitude!¡± Seeing the delighted Tersis, Kisei heaved another sigh. However, it is still unbeknownst to him that the list of his brides will simply grow from now on. CH 169 Checkmate ¡°Have you made up your mind?¡± Saki asked Kisei who returned to the room with a slightly tense expression. He quietly nodded and signed his name on the marriage registration which was left on the table. ¡°The next battlefield will be my last. But I will not give up piloting strikers. I want you all to acknowledge that.¡± ¡°Of course.¡± Schleer nodded and put her name in the uppermost [Wives] column. Incidentally, it was customary for the person who put her name here to be treated as the main legal wife. Saki didn¡¯t fill in the top row because even if she¡¯s a little rotten Schleer¡¯s still her superior. ¡°Pass it to me. I will write my name down too.¡± ¡°Eh, you too!?¡± Tersis who entered the room with Kisei took the form from her while Schleer bewilderedly stared at her. ¡°I was promised an offspring from My Lord. Ahh, you need not worry. I have no intention to get in your way. This is more or less just for formality.¡± ¡°I see¡­¡­.¡± Schleer moaned and glanced at Kisei but his face had only turned into something like a shriveled vegetable. When he arrived at the resort, he did not expect that he would end up getting married¡­¡­not to mention with multiple brides. It happened all very suddenly so he couldn¡¯t help but feel exhausted. Schleer felt that he was a little pitiful but it was her who almost forced him into this marriage. It doesn¡¯t feel right if she¡¯s the only one who gets to have a good time with him while denying others. Reluctantly, she handed a pen to Tersis and let her sign her name on the form. ¡°Umu, very well. Then it¡¯s my turn.¡± Saying so, Diaroze took the pen from Tersis while Saki stared at her with a stern expression. ¡°You too?¡± ¡°Hmph, who do you think managed to get you all this far? Even a slave has the right to marry so I¡¯m simply exercising my right here.¡± When she puts it like that, Saki can¡¯t argue back either. Certainly, it was clear that they wouldn¡¯t be able to get Kisei to yield without her plan. ¡°Then it¡¯s checkmate. Kufufu, it seems a complete victory is mine this time huh.¡± After finishing putting her name on the form, Diaroze poked a little on Kisei. Kisei then collapsed on the tatami mat with a groan. Seeing that, Diaroze leaned in on him and started pressing her chest against his back. ¡°They say marriage is the graveyard of life, how do you feel now after setting foot in one?¡± ¡°It¡¯s not bad. But I¡¯m exhausted¡­¡­¡± ¡°Kufufufufufu!¡± Diaroze was overjoyed. Having enough of that, Tersis tore her off and made her roll on the tatami mat. And as though it was natural, Saki followed that up with a kick to her butt. ¡°Ouch! Give it a rest! A woman¡¯s kick won¡¯t make me feel anything okay!¡± Kisei smiled bitterly at Diaroze¡¯s complaints. Then, before he knew it, Nora approached him with a form of her own. ¡°Since it¡¯s already come to this I want you to sign this too [DESU].¡± ¡°What¡¯s this.¡± The form seems similar to the marriage registration but it appears to be something different. When Kisei narrowed his eyes and asked what it was, Nora replied with a smile. ¡°An engagement form [DESU]. With this, my name will be automatically included in your household when I turn 16 [DESU].¡± The form was made for the younger sisters who were not yet 16 years old that planned to marry the same man. If you submit the form at the same time as the marriage registration, they can forego taking repeated procedures in the future. ¡°You bastard, so you are that thorough huh. No wonder you were so cooperative¡­¡­¡± ¡°Of course, I was aiming for him too after all. That being said, I still need my reward [DESU].¡± ¡°Umu, Umu, I understand. I¡¯ve already prepared it so don¡¯t worry.¡± Saki and Schleer turned their eyes to Diaroze and Nora who were discussing something among themselves. They seemed to have arranged a secret agreement between each other beforehand. ¡°¡­¡­that¡¯s right, you are still only 14 right?¡± ¡°Yes.¡± ¡°If she found out I have a 14 years old fiancee my sister will beat me up for sure¡­¡­.¡± Kisei let out a sigh at the thought but this mess was already a lot for anyone to take in. In the end, he signed the engagement form and Nora snatched it away with a joyful expression. ¡°Mufufu, it was worth letting that rotten woman have your first time. To think that it would go so well.¡± ¡°Damn it¡­¡­.¡± Just as Diaroze said, this is no doubt Kisei¡¯s complete defeat. People might envy this harem situation but he can¡¯t help but feel a strange sense of defeat. ¡°¡­..by the way, the marriage is great and all but¡­¡­what do we do about the surname?¡± As though he just remembered, Kisei raised a question. He did not expect to marry a Vuld so he had never looked into it at all. ¡°In this case, it will be a series of all our family names combined¡­¡­Kisei-san, no, Kisei.¡± Perhaps she thought that she shouldn¡¯t be so formal to her spouse, Schleer rephrased. ¡°After the marriage, your name will be Hokuto Henrietta Makishima Melemheim Argarine Kisei.¡± ¡°That long!?¡± In short, the family name of Schleer, Saki, Tersis, and Diaroze will be added to his in the order they put in the marriage registration. This would not happen if he marries sisters with the same surname though¡­¡­. ¡°Also, when I turn 16, Arcade will be added to the list too [DESU]. Hahaha, what a long name right!¡± ¡°Unnnnnn¡­¡­¡­¡± Once again, Kisei collapsed his body down on the tatami mat. Seeing that, Diaroze tapped his back with a grin. ¡°But you see, my dear Master. Don¡¯t you think you forgot something important?¡± ¡°Something important¡­¡­.?¡± Is there anything else? Kisei narrowed his eyes. ¡°I¡¯m talking about the one who isn¡¯t here. Namely, my foolish younger sister. Aren¡¯t you curious what kind of face she will make once she learns that she was left out of all this?¡± Hearing that, Kisei¡¯s face once again turned deep blue. TLN: The real shuraba is still ahead¡­.. CH 170 The Sisters¡¯ Bond Before she knew it, all the women around her had already reached the goal with Kisei. Thinking of it from Valentina¡¯s point of view, that is certainly not something amusing. ¡°Sh, she will definitely be angry right.¡± ¡°I mean, rather than getting angry, she might actually cry you know.¡± ¡°That is way worse¡­¡­..¡± Kisei doesn¡¯t dislike Valentina either so he¡¯s now holding his head while trying to find a solution. ¡°Speaking of Valentina, that woman¡­¡­what do you think she¡¯s doing right now? We are all here in this room after all, she should suspect that something is up right¡­¡­¡­if she barged in and see us now, this could get bloody you know.¡± Schleer said as she glanced at Saki. This samurai woman also carries her sword around with her like it¡¯s the most natural thing to do. Without Diaroze, she might actually cut down Schleer even though she¡¯s her superior when she rushed over earlier. ¡°She¡¯s sound asleep right now. I gave her a sermon until late last night after all.¡± Since she shared her room with Valentina, Tersis answered the question with her arm crossed. She gave a lengthy sermon to Valentina because of the incident yesterday with Kisei. However, since she¡¯s now included in the marriage registration Tersis also felt bad for her since she was the one who preached her all night¡­¡­.. ¡°Fumu, seems like we have some time then. Alright, let us decide on how to deal with my foolish little sister together.¡± ¡°How to deal with her? What¡¯s this, are you planning something evil again?¡± Saki turned a distrustful gaze toward Diaroze. She may have decided to not draw her blade earlier but the grudge of being sent that bombshell of a picture still lingers in her mind. ¡°Umu, well, you can put it like that too. That being said, since you all have already got on board with my plan, you are already my accomplices. It¡¯s not that evil of a plan so just hear me out first.¡± ¡°Tsk¡­¡­¡± Saki turned away and clicked her tongue. Seeing that, Diaroze snickered before continuing her words. ¡°First of all, I need Master to do one thing.¡± ¡°Wh, what? You still want more from me?¡± ¡°A, Ahh¡­..well, sorry about this. I know that this is going to put Master in a tough spot but please do this for us.¡± Diaroze was a little nervous since Kisei is now looking at her with suspicion because of the series of events that her plan made him go through. She hurriedly apologized and hugged his small body. ¡°I don¡¯t want Master to do it either. Rather, it¡¯s because I love you that¡­¡­¡± ¡°Alright, alright! I get it!¡± Since the soft touch of her breasts made him recall his experience last night, Kisei hurriedly escaped her embrace. Even though he had already experienced it once, it¡¯s still not enough for him to get used to it. Rather, since he now knows what the act entails, he feels even more embarrassed by her gesture. ¡°So, what do you want me to do?¡± ¡°Simply put, I want you to marry Valentina.¡± ¡°Uwahhhh!!¡± Kisei started screaming while rolling on the tatami mat. It¡¯s not that the thought of marrying her was unpleasant to him. He simply screamed at the growing number of his brides. He had already filled out a marriage form with four people and another engagement form with another. If he marries Valentina too then the number of his brides would exceed the number of fingers on his hand. For Kisei who has the sensibility of a Terran, that number of brides is simply outrageous. ¡°I mean, I do feel sorry that I have to ask this but us Vulds have to inform our spouse in case one of our sisters wishes to get married to the said spouse you see.¡± Hearing Diaroze explaining that while cold sweat trickled down her body, Schleer¡¯s mind was also hit by a lightning strike. Her sister, Frea, also wishes to marry Kisei. As Diaroze says, sharing a husband is a natural thing to do among sisters for Vulds and it would be considered dishonorable of her to deny her sister that. The sense of camaraderie inside a Vuld organization may be weak but their familial bond is extremely strong. ¡°R, Right. To be frank, I may hate that woman¡¯s guts but it would be too unfair if she¡¯s the only one that got left out. Perhaps we should at least include her name in the form?¡± While saying that with suspicious behavior, Schleer made eye contact with Diaroze. Seeing that, Diaroze immediately realized that Schleer also wants to include her own sister as well. Resignation filled her expression for a moment but Schleer¡¯s support is certainly needed. Without any choice, she decided to go along. ¡°Umu, that¡¯s right. Please think of it as doing me a favor and propose to my sister.¡± ¡°¡­¡­..¡± Kisei stayed silent for a while. He did recall the time when Diaroze kidnapped him. Back then she offered Valentina to let her touch and lick his body. Their sisterly bond might be surprisingly strong. In the first place, it doesn¡¯t look like she holds a serious grudge against Valentina after her betrayal. Perhaps she¡¯s pushing this because she actually cares a lot for Valentina. ¡°¡­..alright.¡± In the end, Kisei decided to do it. He already has goodwill toward Diaroze from the beginning so his feeling only became stronger after their bodies bonded. It¡¯s difficult for him now to turn down her request. Besides, he doesn¡¯t want to create a rift between Valentina and the others. ¡°Man, what a lady killer [DESU].¡± Nora poked his side before nonchalantly adding that comment with a grin. And once again, Kisei rolled on the tatami mat while raising a pathetic scream. ¡°That being said, I¡¯m not saying that it has to be right now. Even if it¡¯s far out of her league, that foolish little sister of mine is actually aiming for the empress seat after all.¡± Hearing Diaroze, Schleer¡¯s expression turned bitter. Certainly, she did say that she¡¯s going to become an empress and marry Kisei back at the sukiyaki restaurant. However, that ambition put Schleer and the others in a bind. ¡°Becoming Empress of Nored and marrying Kisei-san. Those two goals don¡¯t really go together right.¡± Trying to discern what exactly Diaroze is trying to do, Schleer intensely glared at Diaroze. CH 171 A Reckless Dream Valentina dreams of becoming Empress of Nored. Schleer would have no qualm with that if that¡¯s all Valentina wants. However, if her ambition is also tied with marrying Kisei, Schleer is absolutely against it. ¡°First of all, that woman doesn¡¯t have what it takes to become an empress. I would never allow my beloved husband to get tangled with that reckless dream.¡± Schleer shrugged and heaved a big sigh. Valentina is certainly talented but much like Diaroze, it¡¯s unlikely that she can achieve such a dream. Moreover, since she lacks Diaroze¡¯s cunning it¡¯s hard to believe that she has what it takes to unite such a vast nation. ¡°I am of the same opinion. If Nored loses this battle, the trust in the Empress will probably be shaken and the other princesses would try to rebel against her. In such a fierce civil war, I don¡¯t think that foolish sister of mine stands a chance of victory¡­¡­¡± It is common for Vulds to rise up against their ruler. A nation can only be united through awe and fear. A princess who had already been defeated by a smaller nation would never be recognized as a leader. ¡°Her end goal is to bring Kisei back to Nored as her husband right? Both I and my princess here have our own reason why we want him to stay in Calencia. If I put it that way then our goals are incompatible from the start don¡¯t you think?¡± Diaroze nodded to Saki¡¯s point. ¡°That would be so. If my foolish little sister truly aims for the throne then she won¡¯t be able to leave our country. Even I don¡¯t want her to involve Master in this. Setting her sights on the throne obviously means that she will get tangled with all the needless political conflicts after all.¡± ¡°Then what do we do? With our objectives in conflict, I don¡¯t see us making any compromise though.¡± Said Tersis. Even though she¡¯s a Noredian aristocrat, she has already stated that she will take Calencia side. She probably intended to transfer the affiliation of her house and territory to Calencia using the turmoil in Nored. Since Tersis hails from one of the most powerful houses in the Nored Empire, doing so is certainly not impossible. She may be here by her lonesome but back home she holds the position that can mobilize a fleet that can equal that of Calencia or perhaps even greater after all. ¡°Of course, we will have her give up that dream. In the first place, I don¡¯t want my little sister to step inside the poisonous swamp of politics. Having a convenient position with no responsibilities is for the best, I just have to convince her.¡± ¡°You mean becoming a slave like you?¡± ¡°Naturally. I have the most enjoyable moment of my life as one after all.¡± ¡°You think she will really be fine with that, being a slave I mean¡­¡­¡­¡± Schleer shook her head sideways in resignation. ¡°Well, the plan is actually simple. We can just make her interests align with ours. We have the Noredian army as our shared enemy after all. Unless she personally took down the Empress, her low succession order would not allow her to even contest for it. Well, in short, we only have to force her into a position that is convenient for us.¡± ¡°Conversely, the moment she defeated the Empress, our interests would automatically align with hers right.¡± And obviously, the center of all their interests would be Kisei. ¡°That¡¯s right. That¡¯s why she will eventually bear her fangs at us. Our best shot would be a counterattack. The best time we can use to take her by surprise is when she¡¯s about to launch a surprise attack on us.¡± ¡°So the gist is the same huh. I see, aren¡¯t you crafty.¡± ¡°Just say that I¡¯m wise will you.¡± Diaroze shrugged at Saki¡¯s teasing tone. ¡°In order for us to launch our counterattack at the right time, we need to keep her from going out of control when it¡¯s inconvenient for us. That¡¯s why we should keep this marriage matter away from her for now.¡± ¡°If she found out about this she would definitely drop every pretense and take the hard measures [DESU]¡­¡­..I won¡¯t say that we can¡¯t win but spreading discord among us just before a decisive battle is certainly not good [DESU].¡± ¡°For better or worse, that woman is the leader of the Noredian soldiers who participated in the rebellion after all. If we lose those soldiers then we surely won¡¯t stand a chance.¡± In the first place, Valentina¡¯s soldiers did not participate in the rebellion because of her charisma. If she points her sword at Nored again, they can¡¯t say for sure if the soldiers will be willing to fight¡­¡­¡­. ¡°That being said, we should also give her some sense of crisis. It would be troublesome if my foolish little sister gets too optimistic and never come for us after all.¡± ¡°¡­..Nn¨C, then let¡¯s find an opportunity to tell her. Like once the war ended, I tell her that I want to relax in Calencia for a while¡­¡­¡± Proposed Kisei as he lay on the tatami mat. While he was saying that, Nora straddled him like a horse. While she was riding him with a grin, Tersis grabbed her and threw her off. ¡°It would be better if you make it clear that you won¡¯t go with her for some time huh. Let¡¯s go with that.¡± Said Diaroze with a snap of her finger. ¡°We will keep her on the verge of exploding before we use the chance to launch our counterattack. Then, we use our number and force her to give in! I guess that¡¯s the basis of our strategy.¡± ¡°Do you have to go that far to include your sister?¡± Saki asked as she stared at Diaroze with her eyes narrowed. No matter how she thinks about it, Diaroze¡¯s plan sounds like one she would use on an enemy. As long as they have to cross swords, the danger is still too great. She sees no reason to risk that much for Valentina. ¡°That might be so¡­..but I do not want to abandon my sister¡­¡­rather, I will be fighting against my own mother you know! Isn¡¯t it okay if I want to at least make my sister happy?¡± ¡°¡­¡­Haaa.¡± When Diaroze brings up the topic of family, Saki couldn¡¯t argue back. With a sigh, she turned her gaze to Kisei. In return, Kisei smiles and agrees to the plan. ¡°This is going to be my last battlefield after all. Even if it turned out to be a little more difficult than I expected, I will definitely come through. I¡¯m the [Wicked Star] after all.¡± ¡°Seriously, how reliable.¡± Diaroze unironically muttered. Even if it¡¯s a harsh battle, with the [Wicked Star] on their side, there would be nothing to worry about. ¡°That should be it for now. If we take too much time talking here then that foolish little sister of mine would wake up after all.¡± ¡°Right. Besides, this is the last day of our vacation too¡­¡­I wouldn¡¯t want us to be holed up in here talking about boring stuff all day after all.¡± ¡°¡­¡­.EH!?¡± Hearing Schleer, Diaroze immediately snapped her gaze toward her. ¡°Did I not tell you that?¡± ¡°I haven¡¯t heard anything about that!¡± ¡°Me too¡­¡­¡± ¡°Me three.¡± ¡°I didn¡¯t know too [DESU].¡± ¡°¡­¡­I¡¯m sorry.¡± It appears that she didn¡¯t communicate with them properly. Thinking so, Schleer put her hands together and apologetically lowered her head. ¡°The army will be here to pick us up tomorrow morning. We will depart immediately after breakfast so¡­¡­.this is the final day we can leisurely play around.¡± ¡°Oh no! The hot spring!¡± Diaroze hurriedly stood up and began changing her clothes. It seems she really took a liking to the hot springs here. Apparently, she wants to enjoy it as much as possible before the end of their vacation. ¡°Ah, please wait for me!¡± Since she enjoyed herself to the fullest last night, Schleer is in desperate need of a bath. Meanwhile, Saki and the others who did not participate in last night¡¯s activity stare at her with cold eyes. CH 172 Dirty Talk Four women now sweat inside the large sauna room in the corner of the hot spring. It was Schleer, Saki, Diaroze, and Nora. Saki didn¡¯t really want to bathe in the hot spring first thing in the morning but since Nora told her that leaving Schleer and Diaroze alone again might lead to more shenanigans, she decided to join them. ¡°It¡¯s finally just us women so please tell me all about it.¡± Nora started the conversation with a nasty smile. ¡°About what?¡± ¡°Playing oblivious again¡­..of course, I am talking about Kisei-SAN¡¯s [THAT]. As his fiancee, it¡¯s obvious that I¡¯m curious about it [DESU].¡± She gets straight to the point. Schleer was taken aback a little but Saki who was listening to their conversation had a grim expression on her face. Apparently, keeping an eye on the two was simply a pretext, Nora¡¯s real goal is to ask them about their first-time experience. ¡°E, even if you ask how it was¡­¡­.honestly, I can¡¯t remember much since I was very excited¡­¡­..¡± ¡°You should at least remember how big it was right! I at least want to know whether it was big or small [DESUYO]!¡± Schleer¡¯s expression started to turn sloppy at Nora¡¯s question. It appears the memory of last night is coming to her mind. ¡°I think it was unexpectedly big¡­..well, I turned the light off right away so I didn¡¯t manage to take a good look at it though.¡± ¡°H, Hou. Even though he normally only looked cute to me, it seems he¡¯s a real lady killer isn¡¯t he.¡± Nora gulped. Even though his body is so small, the fact that that part of him is unexpectedly big made her curious about the wonder of the male body. While the two suddenly have this dirty talk, Saki silently looks at Schleer. ¡°So, did it feel good?¡± ¡°It was so good that I would never do it by myself again, I think.¡± Vulds generally have higher body specs and sexual desire that far exceeds that of Terrans. It may be her first time but she didn¡¯t feel all that much pain at all. ¡°Nn¨Cfufufufu, I¡¯m looking forward to it [DESU]. Hearing you describe it made me want to just push him down and see for myself [DESU].¡± Nora once again expressed her desire straightforwardly. After all, unlike Schleer and the others who were born an aristocrat, Nora doesn¡¯t seem to have any shame about such topics since she grew up in a slum. ¡°Should I give you a punch here¡­..¡± Saki said as she glared at Nora but before she could raise her fist, Diaroze interjected. ¡°Hey, little girl. On Terra it¡¯s a crime for a man to date a girl your age you know?¡± ¡°¡­..Ha?¡± Nora looked back at Diaroze like it was the end of the world. The sweat on her forehead doesn¡¯t seem to be due to the sauna alone. ¡°B, but we are in a Vuld country [DESUYO]! Terran law doesn¡¯t matter here right!? Besides, since I¡¯m already engaged to him, there shouldn¡¯t be any problem!¡± ¡°I mean, well, I guess that¡¯s true¡­¡­¡± Vuld¡¯s law is quite loose on those who are dating on the premise of marriage. Naturally, there are still some limits¡­¡­..that¡¯s why Nora thought that it should be fine at her age. However, Diaroze shook her head and mercilessly struck her down. ¡°Are you going to push Master into a position where he can¡¯t even visit his own world? I can¡¯t say I can condone that. It¡¯s not like I can¡¯t understand your feelings but at least you should wait until you can legally get married.¡± ¡°N, No way¡­¡­.¡± Nora was already half-crying. She cooperated with Diaroze¡¯s evil plan because she thought that she could join in on the act once she¡¯s engaged with Kisei. Having to wait 2 years for that is, to be honest, quite crushing. After all, her youthful libido is raging inside her even now. ¡°What a shame, perverted little girl. This is inevitable.¡± ¡°Who are you calling perverted little girl eh!¡± Everyone except Nora thought that it was obviously her but they didn¡¯t say anything. ¡°As compensation, let me share my experience with you. I was on all four you see. Then I raise my butt up and made Master sp¡ª¡ª-¡± ¡°You are just bragging, you idiot!!¡± Half angry, Nora grabbed Diaroze¡¯s arms and violently shook her. Since the fault obviously lay with Diaroze, neither Schleer nor Saki tried to stop her. ¡°W, Well, we can at least compensate you for the time being, you know. You can go on a date with him alone for example.¡± ¡°A date huh, you think I¡¯m just a child or something¡­¡­.¡± Nora stopped shaking Diaroze and glared at Schleer instead. It¡¯s not like she hates the idea but she just can¡¯t help it since she¡¯s in a bad mood. Knowing that, Schleer continues her words. ¡°Being a child is okay, isn¡¯t it. When I was your age, I was attending an all-girl military academy after all. Back then, dating a cute boy was only a dream within a dream you know.¡± ¡°I¡¯m more or less the same. To be honest, I¡¯m the one who envies you. You are the only one young enough for him to pamper you know?¡± ¡°I mean, I¡¯m more the type that wants to pamper him instead of being pampered though¡­¡­¡± With a deep sigh, Nora gazed at Schleer and Diaroze. It doesn¡¯t seem she can get recognized as an adult. Well, even though she said this and that about it, being able to go on a date alone with Kisei is certainly not a bad offer. If she can sneak him off somewhere and push him down then she should be able to enjoy herself to some extent. Thinking so, Nora eventually decided to compromise. ¡°Alright alright, I got it. There¡¯s no way around it [DESU].¡± Nora raised her hands in defeat and stood up. She then started walking toward the exit. ¡°Are you leaving already?¡± ¡°It¡¯s a waste of time here after all [DESU]. You two seemed to have enjoyed your [adult relationship] with Kisei-SAN to the fullest after all¡­¡­¡­.I will go enjoy my [childish relationship] with him now [DESU]. You at least are going to let me have that right.¡± Apparently, she intends to go play with Kisei now. Recalling his tired expression, Schleer stood up in a hurry. If she has some restraints then Schleer doesn¡¯t intend to say anything but she will have to keep an eye on Nora in case she suddenly starts doing something outrageous. ¡°Ahh, please wait. If you plan to go to Kisei-san then I will go with you too.¡± ¡°Seriously, what a pain.¡± The two then loudly left the sauna. Left behind, the heat-filled sauna room fell into silence. After a while, however, Saki opened her mouth. ¡°¡­¡­hey.¡± ¡°What is it?¡± ¡°Umm¡­.how did it go with him last night? I mean, it¡¯s not like I¡¯m curious about it, it¡¯s just a reference for the future¡­¡­.¡± It appears that it wasn¡¯t only Nora who was interested in the dirty talk. Thinking so, a smile floated on Diaroze¡¯s face. CH 173 Me Too In the sauna. ¡°About what you said, it seems¡­¡­..you have some outrageous hobby huh¡­..¡± Said Saki while averting her bright red face away from Diaroze. It appears that Diaroze¡¯s story from last night was a little too much stimulation for the still virgin Saki. With her legs squirming nervously, Saki continues speaking while glancing at Diaroze. ¡°I mean, getting off from getting spanked is just too weird right.¡± ¡°It felt good so there¡¯s no helping it right. Besides, thanks to my fetish, I can make love to Master as much as I want without burdening him you know? This worked super well in my favor in the end.¡± For Diaroze who placed more importance on the spanking and such abusive plays, she gets satisfied quite easily when it comes to the main act. As she was also worried about Kisei¡¯s body, she felt like expressing her gratitude to God for her disposition. ¡°Burden huh.¡± As she exhales, Saki rubs her sweaty chin. ¡°In the end¡­¡­¡­I don¡¯t want to force him to do anything that would be bad for his body¡­¡­.during the act I mean.¡± Saki blushed and said that before turning away. To that rather cute of a display, Diaroze held in the urge to burst out laughing and kept a cool face. If she laughs at Saki here then her head might really fly right off this time. ¡°It¡¯s not exactly bad on his body though. Even so, it¡¯s true that there¡¯s a huge gap between our physical strength and his. Even if he¡¯s all worn out, as long as the effect of our saliva is still active, his body wouldn¡¯t allow his thing to calm down after all. If we push him too much then it will be bad.¡± ¡°Right. That guy is pretty fragile after all¡­..¡± This is the Hokuto Kisei who can vomit blood from maneuvering a striker alone. That¡¯s something that anyone can comfortably handle. If they go too far on him then he might actually die during the act. Knowing how his body is, Saki can understand Diaroze¡¯s fear. ¡°You have to be careful too okay. Being in a marriage means that you will have to eventually do that right?¡± Saki¡¯s strong interest in Diaroze¡¯s story is probably due to her thinking seriously about her relationship with Kisei from now on. And as someone who has already got a head start, Diaroze is giving her advice. ¡°¡­¡­well, yeah.¡± Saki shyly replied. In response, Diaroze shrugged and shares her experience with her. ¡°If I hadn¡¯t stopped Schleer last night, it would have been a close call you know. When we got too excited then we might forget to put on a break after all.¡± ¡°Seriously, even that good for nothing princess¡­¡­..¡± Schleer is always curious about lewd stuff but she¡¯s the type that would self-destruct when it comes to the real deal. It was a little hard to believe that she would attack a man like a beast in bed. ¡°Well, the fact that it was her first time might have played a part too. Still, even if it¡¯s only about the smallest of things, I don¡¯t want Master to have a bad image of sex.¡± When Diaroze said that with a serious face, Saki urged her to continue. It¡¯s embarrassing just to hear it but as long as she¡¯s going through with this marriage, this kind of topic is inevitable. ¡°I¡¯ve already experienced it once but¡­¡­¡­..when our skins overlapped, rather than my body, it was my heart that felt more satisfied. Also, I want to be intimate with Master. That¡¯s why I think¡­¡­.it¡¯s important that we are comfortable around each other. And just for that, I have a proposal for you.¡± Diaroze silently stares into Saki¡¯s eyes. Then after a short while, she continues. ¡°When you do it with Master, I want you to have someone around to act as a brake. I still don¡¯t trust Schleer to do that yet so I would be the one who does that for now though.¡± ¡°After everything¡¯s said and done, you just want to increase the number of times you do it with him aren¡¯t you?¡± Saki stares at Saki with a slightly dubious look. It is certainly as Diaroze said but she still doesn¡¯t want another woman to be there when she¡¯s embracing her man. ¡°When I act as your brake, I will not lay my hand on him. I couldn¡¯t endure it last time but¡­¡­¡­this is the best way to lessen the burden on Master. Having him dealing with us both at the same time is counterintuitive in the first place right.¡± ¡°Muuuh¡­¡­¡± If she went that far then it¡¯s difficult to argue back. Saki too doesn¡¯t want to push Kisei¡¯s body. For the time being, she decided to go along with Diaroze once and show her that she can properly control herself. At the moment, she doesn¡¯t have any choice but to compromise. ¡°No way around it then, I got it¡­¡­..so, well, I want to consult you about something¡­¡­.¡± ¡°What, just say it.¡± ¡°I, it¡¯s a little hard to say but¡­¡­..¡± Diaroze smiles bitterly at Saki who averted her eyes away again. With the conversation they are having, she has to wonder what¡¯s so difficult to say now. ¡°Because we are going to share the same husband, it¡¯s like we are sisters right. As the elder sister, I wouldn¡¯t mind helping you out in a bind you know.¡± ¡°You being the older sister huh, somehow it doesn¡¯t sound that appealing though¡­¡­¡± Diaroze was the general of the enemy army until just recently. It would be a lie for Saki to say that she doesn¡¯t have any ill will toward her at all. ¡°Well, whatever. Also, tonight¡­¡­¡­..do you think I can sleep with Kisei?¡± ¡°T, Today huh¡ª-¡­¡­..¡± Recalling Kisei¡¯s exhausted expression, a deep frown formed on Diaroze¡¯s face. TLN: Perhaps this reversed perspective is why I chose to start translating this series¡­¡­.. CH 174 The Second Night Crawling Operation Saki wants to join her body with Kisei by the end of today. However, Kisei was exhausted from last night so Diaroze is finding it difficult to accommodate that. ¡°I mean, I understand what you think, I understand but¡­¡­¡± Seeing Diaroze¡¯s face, Saki hurriedly tries to make an excuse. She knew that the current Kisei is far from his best condition. Moreover, they were just talking about how to lessen the burden on him just earlier. ¡°But if I miss today, there won¡¯t be another chance for this you know! This is the last day of vacation, if we get back to the ship when will I be able to sleep with him!¡± ¡°Well, if the other soldiers catch you then they will definitely gang up on you after all.¡± Kisei is like an Idol for the Calencian soldiers. It¡¯s not hard to imagine what terrible fate awaits those who managed to settle down with him. Even taking this hot spring trip alone is plenty deep in the danger zone already. ¡°In the first place, people normally are wandering around the ship even after lights out right. It¡¯s just impossible to sneak to his room¡­..!¡± ¡°Even if you managed to sneak in, they would suspect that something¡¯s up when the orderly came to make his bed in the morning. On that point, I agree that this is your best chance. The staff here are all professional so they won¡¯t be snooping around either.¡± Diaroze groaned and crossed her arms. Certainly, if Saki wants to get her feelings through to Kisei, it has to be today. ¡°I guess it was also partly my fault that Master ended up all exhausted. Besides, it¡¯s me who motivated you to do this in the first place too, no way around it, I will help you.¡± ¡°I, I see, thanks¡­¡­.¡± Saki thanks her with a complicated expression. Perhaps she¡¯s wondering what she¡¯s doing asking her former enemy to help with such a thing. ¡°That being said, pushing it is no go. You, are you confident that you can control yourself?¡± Asked Diaroze while she impatiently tapped the sauna¡¯s wooden seat with her finger. Then, after pondering on it for a moment, Saki nodded. ¡°Yeah, at least I should be better than that good for nothing princess.¡± ¡°The bar really is not that high huh¡­¡­.well, fine. So, here¡¯s my suggestion, how about you take it slow with him without using your saliva?¡± ¡°Eh, a man can get it up even without a kiss!?¡± A kiss on the lips is a natural thing for Vulds to do before the actual act. Hearing Diaroze¡¯s words that defy her common sense, Saki was so surprised that she jumped up from her seat. ¡°Terran men are like that in the first place. If Master feels like it then he can get it up no problem I think.¡± ¡°Is, is that so¡­¡­.I didn¡¯t know Terrans are such a perv.¡± Saki¡¯s grandfather is also a Terran but he has already passed away before she was born. With that being the case, Saki¡¯s understanding of Terran is no different from that of Vuld women in general. ¡°The Terrans themselves don¡¯t want us to call them a pervert though¡­..well, no matter.¡± On the other hand, Diaroze who has done her in-depth research on Terran men in advance can only sigh at Saki¡¯s perception of them. With a shrug, she then continues her words. ¡°I¡¯m sure that you have a lot you want to do in bed with him right¡­¡­.I¡¯m going to ask you to be patient this time. Anyway, you have to take it slow to ease Master into it.¡± ¡°Take it slow¡­.eh? What¡¯s that? Is that even possible¡­¡­?¡± ¡°Obviously it¡¯s possible. In short, just don¡¯t be violent with him. I only read about it in the books but it seems that it would feel better for him if we take our time rather than be rough with him. If we go that route then Master won¡¯t be that exhausted afterward either.¡± ¡°I, I see¡­¡­.you¡¯ve done your research huh.¡± ¡°¡­¡­you just learn more and more when you grow up as a virgin. I don¡¯t want to talk about it.¡± Diaroze is 27 years old. Her first time is not particularly late considering how hard a Vuld woman can find a husband. However, she¡¯s around the age where her peers started to get married so she started to grow insecure about it. After all, even while being a princess of a powerful empire, Vuld society doesn¡¯t look kindly to those without a partner. ¡°S, Sure¡­..¡± Realizing that it¡¯s a sensitive topic, Saki gulped down her urge to question Diaroze. ¡°Anyway, everything would go out the window if you lose control. Are you confident that you can stick to this plan?¡± ¡°¡­¡­Tsk.¡± Saki thought about that for a while but since she can¡¯t come up with a better plan, she clicked her tongue and glared at Diaroze before agreeing to it. ¡°I just have to do it right. Even if I¡¯m a little corrupted by you, I¡¯m still a knight. I will never do something that would hurt a man.¡± ¡°For argument¡¯s sake, your princess is also a knight though.¡± With a sigh, Diaroze recalled the wild side of Schleer that ravaged Kisei until she fell asleep. That being said, she has no choice but to trust in Saki¡¯s self-control. ¡°Very well. Alright, come back to me once you are done persuaded Master.¡± ¡°¡­..Eh!?¡± ¡°What are you being surprised for, don¡¯t tell me you planned to attack him in his sleep!? If you do that two nights in a row then even Master would snap you know!¡± Isn¡¯t that your fault! Saki retorted so in her head but she also realized that if she does that too, she would be no different from her. ¡°For the time being, just get his consent first. Since he got off his first time just fine, the bar for that shouldn¡¯t be that high. Right now Master¡¯s wall against sexual stuff should be very low. Just use that to your advantage!¡± ¡°I, I see.¡± Being the serious type, Saki has never hit on a man before. Suddenly being told to convince a man to sleep with her is just too much for her. ¡°I know that it sounds unreasonable but this is your only chance. If you beg him for it then he might agree out of pity. Simple right?¡± ¡°D, Doesn¡¯t that make me look super pathetic!?¡± Saki protested in tears but she had no other choice¡­¡­in the end, it was settled that today she will be seducing a man for the first time in her life. TLN: What am I translating¡­¡­ CH 175 Luring Out For Saki who has never even held hands with a man, asking a man to embrace her was an extremely high hurdle. After the bath, she immediately headed to see Kisei but since she just can¡¯t bring herself to speak to him, she ended up wasting a lot of time doing nothing. ¡°¡­¡­¡­.¡± Pan, Pan The sound of shogi pieces hitting the board echoed in the banquet hall. Diaroze and Valentina are tirelessly trying to best each other. There, with that sound in the background, Saki glanced at Kisei. He¡¯s lying asleep on the tatami mat using a folded cushion as his pillow. After the night crawling yesterday and the repeated offensive the day before that, it seems he couldn¡¯t get enough sleep so he has been sleepy all day except for the mealtime. ¡°Don¡¯t you think monopolizing him during the day too is a little unfair [DESUKA]?¡± ¡°But he would be uncomfortable with those shrimp legs of yours right. This is my time to shine.¡± With him in between, Schleer and Nora are glaring at each other. What they are fighting for is the right to give Kisei a lap pillow. They are speaking quietly so that Valentina doesn¡¯t hear them but one can almost see sparks flying between the two. ¡°What do I do¡­¡­.¡± Saki quietly muttered to herself and frowned. In a situation like this, she can¡¯t possibly talk to Kisei alone. That being said, it¡¯s not like she¡¯s confident that she can persuade him even if they are alone in the first place. ¡°What¡¯s wrong? You looked stressed.¡± As Saki started groaning with a bitter expression, Tersis called her out. It seems that she¡¯s a little drunk and the alcohol in the cup she¡¯s carrying was already half gone. She isn¡¯t the type of woman that would start drinking midday but maybe it¡¯s a celebratory drink for her marriage. ¡°Well, something came up¡­¡­..¡± Saki replied with a difficult expression and glanced at Kisei. With some idea of what¡¯s stressing her out, Tersis nods and replies with alcohol-scented breath. ¡°I see, it¡¯s about My Lord huh.¡± ¡°Yeah.¡± ¡°Those two are in your way right.¡± In a good mood, Tersis points to Schleer and Nora. ¡°¡­..you can tell huh.¡± ¡°Well, I wasn¡¯t born out of a bamboo shoot after all. I more or less get it.¡± With a grin, Tersis tapped Saki¡¯s shoulder. She¡¯s not the type that is particularly sensitive about this kind of thing but¡­¡­right now even Tersis can easily tell what¡¯s on Saki¡¯s mind. ¡°Fumu, I see¡­¡­..alright, since we are comrades that follow the path of swordsmanship, I don¡¯t mind helping you a little here.¡± The moment she said that, Tersis stood up and chugged down the rest of the alcohol in her cup. Just like that, she walks up to Schleer and Nora before whispering something to the two. ¡°You two, can I have some of your time?¡± ¡°¡­..what is it? You are not going to say that you want to give Kisei-SAN a lap pillow too right?¡± Nora glares at Tersis with a distrustful gaze. Meanwhile, she may not be as outspoken as Nora, but Schleer also doesn¡¯t look like she¡¯s willing to welcome more competition either. ¡°No, that¡¯s not it. I just have a small favor to ask you two.¡± ¡°¡­..let¡¯s hear it then.¡± Schleer answered with her arm crossed. Hearing that Tersis cheerfully smiled before glancing at the sword on her waist. ¡°I¡¯m worried that the vacation might make me soft. That¡¯s why I want to ask you two for some sparring session.¡± ¡°Eh, wh, why us.¡± Naturally, since Schleer is royalty, she has also trained in swordsmanship. But why does Tersis ask her for a spar at a time like this? ¡°Hou! That¡¯s nice isn¡¯t it.¡± However, Nora didn¡¯t share the same reluctance. With a daring smile, Nora stood up and stuck out her chest. ¡°Ah, that¡¯s great. Then please go spar with Tersis-san by all means, I will stay here to give Kisei-san.¡± Schleer said that while shooing Nora away but in return, Nora snorted and beckoned Schleer to come closer. Since it seems that she wants to tell her something in secret, Schleer reluctantly crouched down to Nora¡¯s height. ¡°Isn¡¯t this our chance to put this cheeky woman in her place! Since she¡¯s a little drunk, we might be able to take her down if we go at her together [DESUYO]!¡± ¡°¡­¡­I see.¡± Recalling the Seiza hell, they were subjected to for their peeping attempt, it certainly was due to Tersis that she couldn¡¯t enjoy the sight of Kisei¡¯s naked body back then. She also holds a little grudge from the numbness in her legs she was forced to endure during the punishment. With that being the case, the idea that she can get back at Tersis was a little tempting. ¡°Alright, let¡¯s do this.¡± Schleer stood up with a nasty smile on her face before walking toward the exit. After that, Tersis turns back and wink at Saki once before following her out of the banquet hall. ¡°¡­¡­.tsk, now I owe her one huh.¡± In any case, now the number of people around Kisei has significantly decreased. Valentina is still here but it seems that her mind is all focused on the shogi match so she has a lot of opportunities to talk with him. Gulping down her saliva, Saki tapped the sleeping Kisei on his shoulder. ¡°¡­..Nn, what is it?¡± Awake, Kisei rubbed his eyes while looking at Saki. He seems to be very tired so it weighs quite heavy on her conscience. However, this is her only chance. After she mustered up her courage, Saki pointed toward the door and spoke to him. ¡°I have something to talk about with you alone. Can you come with me¡­¡­.?¡± ¡°¡­¡­alone, alone huh. Got it.¡± Kisei has some unpleasant premonitions in his mind from the way Saki looked but after thinking about it for a little, he agreed. With a small stretch, Kisei stands up. ¡°T, thanks¡­¡­¡± With her face bright red, Saki tried to make her smile as friendly as possible¡­¡­. CH 176 The Convincing Saki brought Kisei to her room. After all, it is what it is. She wouldn¡¯t want others except for Diaroze who¡¯s already aware of the situation to hear what she¡¯s about to ask him. ¡°¡­¡­so, what do you want to talk about?¡± Asked Kisei with his eyes narrowed. If it was something that she could talk about without any shame then she would have talked about it right in the banquet hall. Since she brought him to her room without doing that, he can guess what kind of thing Saki wants to ask. ¡°Umm, well.¡± With her cheeks blushing like a ripe apple, Saki started to fumble her words. Being face to face with him made it even more difficult for her to say it. ¡°How do I, hmm.¡± ¡°¡­¡­¡± ¡°¡­¡­..you see.¡± ¡°¡­¡­¡± ¡°You see, ahhh¡­¡­¡­¡± ¡°¡­¡­.¡± ¡°¡­¡­.¡± Saki kept fidgeting and couldn¡¯t properly get to the main topic. At this point, rather than feeling frustrated about her indecisiveness, her attitude felt amusing to Kisei instead. With a bitter smile, Kisei tapped Saki¡¯s quivering shoulder. ¡°So¡­¡­what do you want?¡± ¡°¡­¡­¡± ¡°¡­¡­¡± The two stared at each other without saying anything. Eventually, Saki¡¯s shame reached its limit so she clenched her hands and squeezed her voice out. ¡°I, I want¡­¡­.¡± ¡°Hmm.¡± ¡°T, t, to sleep with you¡­¡­tonight¡­¡­¡± ¡°Tonight¡­¡­?¡± The extremely bashful Saki was very cute but Kisei¡¯s face immediately paled at her request. After all, he had already had his fill with yesterday and the day before that. He¡¯s very, very tired. In the end, being the physically weak Terran that he is, dealing with 2 Vulds with unlimited libido at the same time was exhausting for him. Of course, he doesn¡¯t hate the idea of sleeping with Saki. Since they are going to marry each other, he expected it would come to that eventually¡­¡­.that being said, it¡¯s hard for him to do that 2 days in a row. Even Schleer was a little scary last night. If even Saki is going to turn out like that in bed, he might not be able to live to see tomorrow morning. ¡°Uu.¡± When she saw Kisei¡¯s unenthusiastic state, Saki was a little depressed. However, his reaction was expected. If she¡¯s going to withdraw from just this then she wouldn¡¯t have started this conversation in the first place. Wringing out more of her courage, Saki tightly grabbed Kisei¡¯s shoulders. ¡°P, please! I promise I won¡¯t go overboard¡­¡­.it¡¯s a little irritating but Diaroze can be there too! Even if I can¡¯t stop myself, she will be there to stop me.¡± ¡°It¡¯s her again!?¡± Even Kisei was fed up with her antics. The series of offensives he has endured for the past two days certainly wasn¡¯t all unpleasant but he¡¯s still mentally exhausted because of her. If Diaroze¡¯s going to put him through that again then it will be really rough for him. ¡°T, that¡¯s not it! Rather, she tried to stop me you know. But, even so, I¡­¡­I just, I want¡­..to, umm,¡­¡­do it with you¡­¡­¡­¡± ¡°Muuuuh.¡± Kisei groaned. Saki is a sporty black-haired beauty with good style. Her appearance is exactly Kisei¡¯s type. Naturally, he¡¯s very happy when someone like her asks him to be her partner. However, his reason is telling him that to be sleeping with different women each night would make it feel like he¡¯s cheating on them. His idea about this kind of relationship is pretty serious. That¡¯s why even without his exhaustion, he still finds it hard to agree. ¡°P, please, I beg you¡­¡­if I miss today then there won¡¯t be another chance again! We can¡¯t do this back on the ship right!? So, please¡­¡­¡± Almost half crying already, Saki clings to Kisei. ¡°After being told how those two thieving cats slept with you, I¡¯ve already reached my limit! I¡¯m so horny I can¡¯t help it!¡± ¡°They told you that much¡­¡­¡­?¡± Kisei covered his bright red face with his hands. It¡¯s not that he doesn¡¯t want them to talk about it at all but it¡¯s still embarrassing for him.¡± ¡°A, also, you don¡¯t have to worry about your body okay! It¡¯s something Diaroze told me about but we can do this thing called slow-sex(?) and it won¡¯t tire you out. Let¡¯s go with that tonight! LET¡¯S!¡± ¡°Don¡¯t [LET¡¯S!] me, come on¡­¡­.¡± Kisei can¡¯t help but think that it would be more tiring instead if they take their time. ¡°W, why¡­..you are fine doing it with them but you don¡¯t want to do it with me? Do you really, hate the idea that much¡­¡­.?¡± ¡°Nnngigigigigi.¡± When she put it like that with tears in her eyes, it was difficult for him to turn her down. Kisei let out a pathetic groan. Since he¡¯s agreed to marry her, he of course thinks of her quite favorably. Seeing her looking sad like this only pains him. ¡°I, I got it¡­¡­tonight right?¡± ¡°T, Thank you¡­¡­¡± When Kisei reluctantly agreed, Saki thanked him with a pathetic-sounding voice and hugged him tightly. Her relief made her put too much strength into it that Kisei started yelping a little. ¡°S, Sorry!¡± ¡°Be more careful tonight okay¡­¡­¡± When Kisei replied with an awkward expression, Saki repeatedly nodded to him. (I hope I won¡¯t die from this before the war ends though¡­¡­.) Seeing the extreme happiness on her face, Kisei half-seriously started to consider the danger to his life¡­¡­. CH 177 Onee-chan (Ahh, I¡¯ve done it again.) The moment he woke up, Kisei was assaulted by a deep self-loathing. While his whole body felt lethargic, the warmth from another person¡¯s skin on his body evokes his memory from last night. In the end, he ended up spending the night with Saki. ¡°¡­..what, why are you making that face.¡± Saki who seems to have woken up before Kisei asked him so with a pout. The two are sharing a futon. Their naked bodies intertwined in an embrace. In addition, there¡¯s also the naked Diaroze who¡¯s soundly sleeping with her arms around both of them. He has woken up like this second day in a row. The fact that he has a different partner today doesn¡¯t sit well with Kisei. Doesn¡¯t this make me look like a cheating scum, thought Kisei as he was astounded by his own recent behavior. ¡°No, well¡­..hmm¡­..¡± ¡°It, it was my bad. I won¡¯t force you to do something like this anymore¡­¡­¡± It seems Saki thought that the reason behind his difficult expression was her forcefulness yesterday. In the first place, Vulds people would never understand Kisei¡¯s internal conflict since polygamy is a normal thing for them. ¡°No, it¡¯s not your fault, Saki.¡± ¡°Onee-chan.¡± Saki said that in a resolute tone and tightened her arms around him. ¡°Call me Onee-chan like you did last night. You can at least do that when we are alone right¡­¡­¡± For some reason, when they got down to business yesterday, Saki asked him to call her Onee-chan. Kisei was confused at first but he decided to play along in the end. That being said, Kisei also has his real elder sister. It wouldn¡¯t be a joke if he accidentally call Saki Onee-chan when he introduces her to his family. ¡°F, fine¡­¡­.¡± However, perhaps due to the guilt from making her feel bad earlier, he agreed to call her Onee-chan this time as well. As Kisei sighed to himself, Diaroze¡¯s hand gently stroked his hair. ¡°¡­¡­.and you called me a pervert, you are just as bad right. Seriously.¡± With a big yawn, Diaroze smiled and said that in a low voice. It appears she woke up when Saki and Kisei were talking. After another big yawn, Diaroze rubbed her cheeks against Kisei¡¯s body. ¡°Master, how¡¯s your body? Is it painful anywhere?¡± ¡°¡­..I¡¯m fine. It went a lot easier on me than the day before.¡± ¡°Fumu, I guess slow sex was the correct answer after all huh. Maybe I can ask you to do the same for me next time.¡± During the deed last night, rather than participating, Diaroze was focused on providing them support. Either because she worried about Kisei¡¯s physical condition, or because she was already satisfied herself the night before, she was much more patient than when she was in the Noredian army. ¡°What about you? Did you enjoy your first bite of a man?¡± ¡°That¡¯s quite a nasty way to put it you know¡­¡­.¡± Saki answers with a stern look. Still, last night was overall a success for her. To be honest, she wants to try going rougher since she took it slow this time but¡­¡­.it would be inappropriate to talk about their next time after what they put Kisei through two days in a row. Thinking so, Saki continues her words with her cheeks bright red. ¡°It was a shame I couldn¡¯t take your lips but, well,¡­¡­.doing it this way is nice too.¡± With a light smile, Saki kisses Kisei on his forehead. On the other hand, Kisei blushed a little before kissing her back on her forehead. ¡°Fumu?¡± Seeing that, Diaroze grins. She then moves behind Saki and robs Kisei of his lips. ¡°Ah, you bastard!¡± She held back on the saliva exchange last night since it will put a heavy burden on Kisei¡¯s body so Saki was obviously pissed when Diaroze just casually kissed him on the lips right in front of her. ¡°Kufufu, making him taste our saliva would certainly be bad but conversely, kissing alone is just fine, no? Besides, Terrans usually kiss their partner on the lips so it would be more fun for him this way too you know.¡± ¡°Muuu¡­¡­¡± Saki listened with a pout on her face before taking a few deep breaths and placing her lips on Kisei¡¯s. ¡°¡­¡­.it¡¯s not bad but, somehow, it makes my heart race.¡± Saki¡¯s breathing turned rough after she parted her lips away from him. There, Diaroze whispers into her ear. ¡°Well, a kiss on the lips is like a starting signal for sex after all.¡± ¡°So it wasn¡¯t just an act to trigger a man¡¯s instinct huh¡­¡­¡­¡± Since it was clearly dirty talk so Saki replied in a small voice since she doesn¡¯t want Kisei to hear it. They¡¯ve already shown their most embarrassing parts to each other so it¡¯s a little too late for that though¡­¡­ ¡°Well, leaving that aside. Me too, Master.¡± Diaroze shrugged and pushed her forehead close to Kisei¡¯s lips. She wants a kiss on her forehead as well. With a small sigh, Kisei did just that. After that, Diaroze gives him a big smile in return and kisses him back on the forehead too. ¡°Haa.¡± After a long sigh, Diaroze left the futon and sits naked on the tatami mat while looking outside the window. Seeing the rising sun and the refreshing blue sky outside, she let out another sigh. ¡°Ahh, happiness huh. To think that loving and being loved can provide this much satisfaction to a person.¡± ¡°I hope that it¡¯s not just one-way though¡­¡­¡± With her arms still around Kisei, Saki said that as though she was trying to admonish herself. On the other hand, Kisei smiles bitterly at her gentle touch. ¡°I think it¡¯s not one-way you know¡­¡­..¡± Saying so, he squeezed Saki¡¯s hand. TLN: Well, that¡¯s a fetish. CH 178 The Return The last day of the vacation was, simply put, hectic. With Schleer¡¯s position as the highest authority of the whole Calencia army, military matters that required her attention naturally accumulated in her long absence and the army sent a car to pick them up early in the morning. The group only had a short time to bathe in the hot spring and have breakfast before they had to hop on the bus back to the base¡­¡­. Just recalling the event in the morning already made Kisei let out a long sigh. ¡°Sigh¡­..¡± It¡¯s been 30 minutes since they left the resort. The bus that the army sent to pick them up was not exactly a comfortable ride either. With the shaky ride, Kisei had to grab onto his rattling seat as he looked at Schleer who sits opposite of him. ¡°Well, I mean¡­¡­our budget is quite limited so we have to cut costs wherever we can.¡± ¡°Still, I don¡¯t think this kind of ride is suitable for a princess though. I¡¯m not saying that they should have sent a hovercraft for us but don¡¯t they have any decent ride at all?¡± Next to Schleer, Valentina grumbles with a difficult expression. If a car like this was arranged for an aristocrat back in Nored, the person in charge would probably find themselves decapitated after all. ¡°Well, if the royal family rides something too expensive in this economy we might actually get stoned by our citizens after all. We are doing this to appeal that we are no different from our common class people as well. It¡¯s two birds with one stone.¡± ¡°Rather than trying to make yourself look like a commoner, I think your mindset already belongs to one though¡­¡­..¡± Although how an aristocrat should behave differs from country to country, Valentina has never seen a worse environment for one. It made her hesitate whether she wanted to laugh at Schleer or was simply astounded by the situation. ¡°Well, there¡¯s no use talking about it. We have been away for a while right, how¡¯s the army holding up?¡± Although they are waiting for the Nored empire to make the first move, the Calencian army is not just spending time loitering around either. Even if it is now in better shape than when Kisei joined up, the Calencian army¡¯s situation right now is like they are on the edge of a cliff. Even one defeat could spell their total collapse. ¡°About the army, we are currently rebuilding our forces while preparing a network for an immediate response system. Thanks to my sister, we have managed to gather a lot of supplies as well. ¡°Your sister, you mean Frea-san?¡± Schleer¡¯s twin sister, Frea Henrietta is the head of the Calencian army¡¯s logistic department. Recalling how she looked exactly like Schleer, Kisei asked for confirmation. ¡°Yes, she went around to our neighboring countries and negotiated some relief supplies for us.¡± ¡°Hou.¡± Impressed, Kisei¡¯s eyes widened. The reason the other countries are so ready to provide them with supplies is probably that they fear that they might be next if Calencia falls. Being able to get supplies from other nations without forming an alliance with them is certainly great. ¡°Also, from the business side, the Kawashima Ironworks has also sent us a team of technical advisers. They should be refurbishing our Zeniths as we speak.¡± ¡°Your Zeniths are quite different from ours after all. Even with the 4 Heavenly out of the picture, Nored still has many powerful aces and Zeniths left. If our Zeniths can¡¯t put up a proper fight I would be troubled.¡± Valentina placed an emphasis on that. After all, it was thanks to Kisei¡¯s skill that they managed to take down Nored¡¯s powerful Zeniths. It would be bad if the rest of them can¡¯t put up a proper fight against their elite enemies. ¡°I told them to strengthen our strikers as much as possible before we left. For the budget¡­¡­well, since you all have donated so much I think that it will be enough.¡± Schleer answers with a complicated expression. Unlike the poor Schleer, Valentina and Tersis both have vast financial power. A part of that has flowed into Calencia¡¯s military budget. She¡¯s grateful for their contribution to the strengthening of her army but she¡¯s also troubled since they might exercise their influence as their investors. To her, that¡¯s quite a difficult thing to deal with. ¡°Leaving that aside, what about Nored¡¯s forces? Even if you¡¯ve already turned to our side, you used to be high up in their army right. Can you guess what kind of move they will make?¡± The Calencian intelligence department couldn¡¯t come up with any great results. They are aware that Nored is reorganizing their army but that¡¯s it. After all, with Nored being a superpower, their measly intelligence department can¡¯t possibly match Nored¡¯s elite counterintelligence. ¡°They already know that we¡¯ve betrayed them after all. I can¡¯t tell much. Still, I think that their aristocratic armies have finished assembling. They should be gathering mercenaries right about now.¡± ¡°Mercenaries huh, they stopped minding their appearance it seems.¡± Kisei groaned while scratching his cheek. Normally, a powerful nation with a strong standing army wouldn¡¯t resort to employing mercenaries. It appears Nored really wants to crush Calencia this time. It would be easier if the enemy underestimated them but it seems that won¡¯t be the case this time. ¡°It¡¯s already well-known that Calencia has My Love fighting on their side after all. Some famous mercenaries who want to try and defeat you for fame might join up with Nored this time. We should be careful.¡± Valentina said so with a smile. On the other hand, Kisei acted as though he was troubled and let out a small sigh. ¡°Being a celebrity sure is troublesome huh, seriously¡­¡­¡± CH 179 The Empress Around the same time, at the Nored Imperial Court, a rare sense of urgency linger in the atmosphere. ¡°¡­¡­¡­¡± Noredian Empress, Willecia Renda Argarine was glaring at her vassals, her expression did not hide her foul mood. Lords, bureaucrats, ministers¡­¡­..all of them nervously stand side by side before their Empress. ¡°¡­¡­.¡± Empress Willencia silently taps the armrest of her gorgeous throne with her finger. Her eyes coldly glared at the military officer who was prostrating before her. ¡°So¡­¡­half of the forces dispatched to Calencia has rebelled. That is confirmed?¡± ¡°Yes.¡± With a quivering voice, the officer answers. ¡°Her Highness Valentina¡­¡­.no, Valentina has suddenly staged an uprising and took control of half of the army and joined up with the Calencians to remove Her Highness Diaroze¡­¡­..¡± ¡°A loser deserves no respect. Ditch the honorifics.¡± Said the Empress while she¡¯s using her finger to play with her plentiful and wavy long blond hair. Her voice does not contain even a shred of worry for her daughter¡¯s well-being. Since the day the report came that Diaroze was defeated, she has never once tried to confirm her safety. ¡°To think that the like of Valentina would stage an uprising. It seems that I was taken lightly huh¡­..!¡± The Empress disdainfully spits. Her anger frightened the young officer. ¡°I need that fool¡¯s head on the guillotine as soon as possible.¡± ¡°A, about that¡­¡­Your Majesty, may I suggest something first?¡± One of the soldiers raised her hand up with a pale face. The Empress directed a sharp gaze at the soldier but she allowed the soldier to speak by silently giving her a nod. ¡°Our intelligence has reported that Her Hi¡ª¡­..Diaroze is safe. It appears that she¡¯s being held as a prisoner of war in Calencia¡¯s capital. If Your Majesty would allow us to sortie an elite rescue team, I believe that we will be able to extract her¡­¡­¡± If they dispatch a team of elite special forces using a high-speed vessel, they should be able to rescue Diaroze much faster than dispatching a whole fleet. The army thinks that rescuing Diaroze should take priority before they begin their battle in earnest, however¡­¡­.. ¡°No need. I have no use for a daughter who failed such a simple mission. It would be less of a hassle if I have her executed together with Valentina after she¡¯s caught.¡± To the Empress, Diaroze was already dead. She doesn¡¯t need a pawn that can¡¯t enact her orders. If she¡¯s dead then fine, if she¡¯s alive, have her executed. That¡¯s all. ¡°Howe¡ª¡­..as you command.¡± Seeing the dissatisfaction on the Empress¡¯s face, the soldier hurriedly withdrew. The Empress watched that happening with a frosty gaze but she soon turn her eyes to the minister of military affairs. ¡°Is the fleet ready yet?¡± It¡¯s a common occurrence. Some time has already passed since the news of Diaroze¡¯s defeat arrived. Nonetheless, the Empress never grew tired of berating her vassals and rushing the organization of a new army. ¡°The aristocratic army has already assembled. However¡­¡­¡± ¡°The mercenaries huh.¡± ¡°Yes. Unfortunately, the number of applicants has not reached the number we expected¡­¡­.¡± Mercenaries and the likes usually pour in like a flood when the recruitment was announced. Naturally, Nored has prepared plentiful compensations and they also use various channels of recruitment. However, it was mysterious how they can¡¯t seem to assemble that many mercenaries at all. ¡°Your Majesty, our aristocrats and the Imperial army alone is strong enough to defeat our enemy. I believe we have no need to rely on the mercenaries.¡± One of the Lords nervously voiced her opinion. True enough, the Imperial Army alone rivals the entirety of the forces a small country can muster up. On the grand scale of things, the number of rebels doesn¡¯t amount to much compared to the full might of the Imperial army. That¡¯s why it doesn¡¯t make sense for them to go out of their way to hire mercenaries to add to their number. ¡°No. Defeating them alone is not enough. What we need to do is to thoroughly annihilate the rebels. This victory must be overwhelming and one-sided so that fools like Valentina may never appear again.¡± The Empress said so with a relaxed expression but that was just a front. She is actually being cautious of the Calencians¡¯ secret weapon. In the initial invasion, she¡¯s sent enough force to guarantee a complete victory. There must be some kind of reason for Diaroze¡¯s defeat. Naturally, she has already obtained the information that the mercenary called the [Wicked Star] has joined the Calencians but it¡¯s simply unthinkable for a lone mercenary to turn the tide of war. She also suspected that other countries may secretly send reinforcements to Calencia in the future. That¡¯s why she wants to strengthen her side as much as possible. ¡°If the recruitment is delayed any longer then have the person in charge executed. Am I understood?¡± ¡°Y¡­¡­Yes, Your Majesty!¡± The minister of military affairs answers while drenching in a cold sweat. The Empress always comes through on her words. [I can¡¯t afford to lose her subordinate to a silly matter like this.] Thinking so, the minister hurriedly relayed her instructions to her subordinates ¡­¡­. CH 180 Mercenary Recruitment What do you do if you can¡¯t gather enough mercenaries? The recruiters came up with a solution. They are now holding a recruiting session that provides compensation just by attending. A large rental conference room was rented on a trading planet and many famous mercenaries that are active in nearby systems have gathered there. ¡°Umm, everyone, thank you for coming¡­¡­..¡± An imperial military officer in a suit greets the mercenaries with a cold sweat. In front of her were various mercenaries who wear whatever they want with no regard for the dress code. All of them appear to be fierce warriors and their atmosphere is pretty intimidating. It would be unreasonable to ask her not to be nervous speaking in front of them. ¡°Enough with the pleasantry, where¡¯s the money?¡± A mercenary said in an unmotivated voice. Her expression showed that she only wanted the money and quickly go home afterward. These women were invited specifically by name and they only attended because they heard that they will be rewarded just by attending this briefing. ¡°Th, the compensation will be transferred to your bank account after the briefing is over so¡­¡­.¡± While wiping the sweat on her forehead, the officer lowered her head as though she was begging for the mercenaries to stay. The temperature in the room is by no means high but being subjected to the mercenaries¡¯ gazes, the officer can¡¯t help but sweat. ¡°You don¡¯t need to brief us about anything. Most people who came today must have already looked into the situation after all.¡± An old woman casually said that while waving her hand to dismiss the officer. She seems to be at an age where she shouldn¡¯t be active anymore but she¡¯s actually the head of a well-known mercenary corps. In reply, the other mercenaries all silently nodded at her words. ¡°To put it simply, you want to invade Calencia right? Well, do whatever you want. Leave me out of it.¡± ¡°Wh¡­.why! Calencia is but a small country with a meager army! It should be a simple job of crushing some old scrap strikers with your Zeniths!. This amount of reward should be more than sufficient!¡± Her outrage is understandable since her boss¡¯s head will literally fly if the recruitment takes any longer than this. The Imperial Army also allocated as much budget as they can to this effort and the reward here is exorbitant considering the scale of this war. ¡°Who cares about the reward! That [Wicked Star] is there in Calencia right.¡± Another mercenary said in a sore mood. ¡°W, well, yes. We¡¯ve confirmed that the mercenary who goes by that second name is currently being employed there¡­¡­..However, a single ace or two shouldn¡¯t be a big problem to you all right?¡± A powerful pilot is certainly troublesome to deal with but in the end, that¡¯s just one person. The Imperial Army believes that they can win this war through sheer numbers. That being said, things are not so simple since Diaroze was captured before she sent the report back to Nored so they will be going in almost blind inside an enemy turf. ¡°Haa¡­.¡± The old woman sighs and shrugs as though she¡¯s dealing with a fool. Seeing that, the mercenaries around her started to giggle. ¡°W, What!¡± ¡°If the [Wicked Star] is on the enemy side then you definitely will lose. You can¡¯t just chalk that guy up as an ace. That¡¯s a real bad omen. It¡¯s not that I believe in bad omens in general but don¡¯t ask me to join if that person¡¯s going to show up.¡± The old woman said with her wrinkled face distorted. ¡°Right now the bunch that does not take the name [Wicked Star] seriously are either newbies or reckless fools. I learned my lesson a year ago.¡± Apparently, the old woman has fought [Wicked Star] before. Meanwhile, another mercenary seems to sympathize with her. ¡°I agree. There are not that many of us who would willingly join a losing battle and there are only a few newbies that will try to use this chance to prove themselves. Now you understand?¡± Understand what! The officer shouted internally but managed to prevent that retort from bursting out loud. After taking a few deep breaths, the officer continues speaking in a softer voice. ¡°Come on, that¡¯s just an exaggeration. The rumors say that this [Wicked Star] is actually a man too. There¡¯s no way intergalactically famous mercenaries such as you all can not deal with him.¡± ¡°Hah!¡± The old woman snorted. A blue vein popped on her forehead. ¡°It seems I can¡¯t talk any sense to you. I¡¯m leaving.¡± The moment she said that, the old woman got up and started walking to the exit. The mercenaries around her also began to leave. The officer hurriedly tried to stop them but she was immediately shut down by their glare. ¡°N, Noway¡­¡­¡± Left behind, the officer pitifully groaned. After all, if she fails this job, her head might be going to the guillotine as well. When she was wondering if she should escape the country, a woman suddenly tapped her shoulder. ¡°I have a question.¡± In a hurry, the officer looked back at the young mercenary with long ice-blue hair. The officer immediately recognized her face since she had read the file of every attendee beforehand. ¡°You are¡­¡­Chief Makina of the Wibel Hounds?¡± The Wibel Hounds is a famous band of mercenaries that own multiple battleships. Their leader, Makina is also said to be a top ace when it comes to striker combat. ¡°Of course, please ask away by all means!¡± If she can hire the Wibel Hounds then she could at least avoid the guillotine so the officer happily replied. ¡°Is it true that [Wicked Star] is going to appear?¡± ¡°Y, yes, that is correct. We received that information from our intelligence agency so there¡¯s no mistake.¡± ¡°Fumu.¡± Makina¡¯s groan somehow contains a clearly uplifting mood. She clearly has a different attitude from her unmotivated colleagues. ¡°I¡­..no, we the Wibel Hounds was looking for a chance to have a rematch with him. This is good. We¡¯d like to join.¡± It appears that she has some kind of personal agenda with the [Wicked Star]. Anyway, since she managed to hire someone it seems that she has escaped decapitation for the time being. Thinking so, the officer strokes her chest in relief. CH 181 Refurbishment After he returned from the vacation and got back onboard the [Radiant], Kisei¡¯s group was greeted by the chief mechanic who clearly seems to be sleep-deprived. She then leads him to the maintenance deck in a strangely good mood. It seems there¡¯s something she wants to show him. ¡°T, This is¡­..¡± The maintenance deck which is much smaller than the storage deck is a place where they perform heavy maintenance work on strikers. The place normally only has a few crew but right now it is crowded with mechanics busily working on the Zeniths. ¡°We have been ordered to refurbish our strikers to be able to compete with the Noredian ones you see. Right now we are in the middle of remodeling our Zenith-types.¡± Certainly, Schleer did say something about that. Kisei was impressed as he looked around the place. Surprisingly, he even found a mechanic that seemed to be a Terran like him. ¡°Ahh, those people came from Kawashima Ironworks. This time they sent over their technicians along with the parts we ordered. Since they are here, I asked them to help us out.¡± ¡°I see.¡± Kisei replied while feeling a little disappointed. Even if they are certainly Terrans, all of them are women. Since companies that operate on the intergalactic scale understand the danger of having their male employees working off-world, it¡¯s only natural for them to send a team fully consisting of women¡­¡­still, he also wants to talk to a man who shares his birthplace once in a while. ¡°Does that mean you are working on [Caliburn-Revive] too?¡± ¡°Of course! I went out of my way to pick you up because I wanted to show you our work after all.¡± When the chief mechanic said that with a grin, Kisei and Saki looked at each other. Incidentally, only the two of them and Diaroze, who couldn¡¯t leave Kisei¡¯s side, followed the chief mechanic here. ¡°It¡¯s that way, look, it¡¯s amazing isn¡¯t it!¡± Saying so, the chief pointed her finger to a striker that is currently being fixed onto the wall. Its characteristic rabbit-ear-like antenna seems familiar to him but the [Caliburn-Revive] has changed a lot from what he remembers. After all, it is now fitted with thick jet-black armor parts all over its body. ¡°U, Umm, that chest armor¡­¡­.don¡¯t tell me, [IT¡¯S FROM ZENTIS]!?¡± Diaroze was shocked. ¡°Yes! Since we managed to get our hands on such an ultra-high performance striker from Nored so we took its parts and made full use of it! ¡­¡­..by the way, who is this noble-looking person here?¡± The chief turned a doubtful gaze at Diaroze who¡¯s quivering from the fact that she just heard that her personal striker was torn apart. At the moment, she¡¯s wearing a high-performance military long coat that is usually provided to Calencian marines. That¡¯s probably why the chief couldn¡¯t tell who she was. ¡°I¡¯M THE PILOT OF THE MACHINE YOU¡¯VE JUST DISASSEMBLED THAT¡¯S WHO!?¡± ¡°EhHH!?¡± The chief was astonished. She was busy with all the refurbishment here that she didn¡¯t hear about how Diaroze became a slave. ¡°Eh, that means you are Nored¡¯s former commander? No way¡­¡­¡± ¡°Yes, way. Well, I¡¯m already freed from that suffocating position though. Right now I¡¯m a slave serving my master here.¡± With a loose smile, Diaroze smacks Kisei on the shoulder. ¡°Is that true!?¡± ¡°Yeah, it¡¯s true. it¡¯s a little irritating though.¡± Saki added as she shook her head sideways while holding her head. Seeing that she¡¯s not joking the chief¡¯s face immediately stiffened as she took a step back. ¡°No way¡­¡­rather, I was ordered to remodel [Caliburn] to be a two-seater, don¡¯t tell me!?¡± ¡°A, ahhhh¨C¡­¡­¡± Diaroze¡¯s slave collar was designed to detonate if she was separated from the designated master after a set amount of time. With the radio jamming that¡¯s common on the battlefield, the only way to guarantee that her head would not accidentally fly off is to put her in the same machine as Kisei. It seems that Schleer has taken care of that before they left for vacation. ¡°Umu, it¡¯s probably because I will be riding it too huh. My body can¡¯t stand being apart from Master after all.¡± ¡°Is, is that really okay!?¡± Having a former enemy being on board the same vessel as your ace is naturally concerning. There¡¯s no guarantee that she won¡¯t suddenly assault Kisei inside. After all, no matter how good a striker it is, if the pilot is taken out then it¡¯s over. ¡°It¡¯s okay, probably¡­¡­..¡± Right now Diaroze doesn¡¯t even consider returning to Nored. Thinking so, Kisei replied in her stead while looking at Diaroze with a bitter smile. On the other hand, Diaroze looked back with her eyes sparkling. ¡°¡­¡­.¡± Rotten as she is, they are already in the kind of relationship where they lay in bed together. He can guess what she wanted to say. With a sigh, Kisei decides to go along. ¡°Hand!¡± ¡°Arf!¡± Immediately after, Diaroze placed her hand on Kisei¡¯s with a big smile. ¡°Sit!¡± ¡°Arf!¡± With a momentum that almost made a swooshing sound, Diaroze quickly sat down. Her expression seemed ecstatic for some reason. Of course, since they¡¯ve started that play in public, the eyes from their surroundings started to gather on them. ¡°As you can see, she¡¯s completely obedient¡­¡­.¡± ¡°We¡¯ve been fighting for our lives, against this idiot-looking woman¡­¡­¡­.¡± The chief shook her head as though she just witnessed something she wished she shouldn¡¯t have. ¡°W, Well, more importantly! You¡¯ve made the best out of this shameless idiot¡¯s Zenith right. The [Caliburn-Revive] must have been improved a lot.¡± Saki changed the subject to dispel the awkward air around them. Next to her, Kisei strokes Diaroze¡¯s head and she stands up with a happy smile. ¡°Y, yes. We made a lot of changes. You can almost say that it¡¯s an entirely different striker now! To differentiate it, we are calling it [Ex-Caliburn] now!¡± ¡°[Ex-Caliburn]¡­¡­.¡± Filled with anticipation, Kisei once again turns his gaze back to his now-remodeled striker. CH 182 Ex-Caliburn ¡°In the first place, this striker was built as a prototype for [Excalibur]. Since it¡¯s now greatly outperforming the original [Excalibur] we want to differentiate it so we gave it a new name, [Ex-Caliburn]¡­¡­how is it, not bad right?¡± The chief mechanic proudly presented her work but right now the [Ex-Caliburn] seemed unfinished as it gives off the atmosphere of a striker that is a product of a forceful fusion of Calencian and Noredian strikers. Noticing the complicated expression on Kisei¡¯s face, the chief hurriedly continues her explanation. ¡°I, I mean, we¡¯ve done a rough work on it so it¡¯s still unfinished. Please don¡¯t worry, after we add the finishing touch it will look better!¡± ¡°I don¡¯t want to pilot a lame striker either¡­¡­.well, do your best okay.¡± ¡°I get where you are coming from but don¡¯t just haughtily give order to others damn it.¡± When Diaroze overbearingly voiced her opinion while crossing her arms, Saki glared at her. However, since she did help Saki out last night, she casually looked back at her and it was Saki who ended up frowning and averting her glare away instead. ¡°By the way, what part did you improve it on?¡± Appearance aside, as a pilot, Kisei is more concerned about how it works. Hearing his question, the chief immediately replied with a grin. ¡°The biggest change we made was to the engine. We replaced the conventional phase transition turbine with the ultra-high output one we took from [Zentis]. Thanks to that it now has a 50 percent increase in maximum output!¡± ¡°T, That¡¯s a lot. Rather, you managed to replace the engine? I thought that the manufacturers were different though¡­..¡± ¡°About that, we cut out the engine mount frame on this part here a little, like this, and put it in.¡± ¡°Is that even okay!?¡± Hearing how they cut a part of the frame out, even Kisei began to question the decision. In reply, the chief averted her eyes away with a vague expression on her face. ¡°We¡¯ve reinforced it afterward so it¡¯s totally fine¡­¡­probably.¡± ¡°Probably¡­..¡± Kisei frowned at that anxiety-inducing word. ¡°Umm, the armor has also been greatly strengthened you know. Noredian royal strikers usually pack an excessive amount of armor plate after all. Not only the ones we pulled from [Zentis] we also took some spare armor stored on their battleship to make it even sturdier too.¡± ¡°Do I really need that much armor? Well, I guess it¡¯s better to have than not huh.¡± ¡°This guy hasn¡¯t even got hit before after all¡­¡­.¡± Although he has been through a lot of tough battles, the striker he piloted almost never gets hit. Rather than adding more armor to his striker, he would appreciate a lighter weight that would allow him more ease of movement¡­¡­.. ¡°I mean, how do I say this¡­¡­..since we added a second seat to the cockpit and a new engine, the old armor frame just doesn¡¯t have enough space ¡­¡­[Zentis] was a pretty big striker right? Besides, all armor fits on it perfectly when we put it on too.¡± ¡°A, as expected, flying in an unarmored striker is scary isn¡¯t it. There¡¯s no helping it¡­¡­.¡± ¡°W, well, more armor wouldn¡¯t hurt right. Even if you get cornered by some crazy strong aces then you should be able to survive too.¡± ¡°That sounds pretty convincing coming from you huh¡­¡­¡± Saki added. Diaroze was once cornered by Kisei and her engine was almost got taken out by his photon saber. Without [Zentis] stupidly thick armor, she would have been defeated right then and there. ¡°Well, armor aside. Since the engine has increased output now, we strengthened the thrusters and weapons as well.¡± A striker¡¯s main thruster uses the exhaust heat of the engine to propel forward. That¡¯s why if the engine is strengthened, the thrust capacity would also increase. ¡°We¡¯ve managed to increase the thrust by 20 percent! We¡¯ve also prepared some very powerful weapons so unlike how some strikers can endure a hit from you before, you should be able to take them down with one shot now.¡± ¡°Ahh, I appreciate that. I was having a hard time because I don¡¯t have enough firepower in the last battle after all.¡± Since the Noredian Zeniths were so robust that they could still move no matter how many of his attacks hit, Kisei actually struggled quite a bit. ¡°Head-mounted machine guns, wire guns¡­¡­..we didn¡¯t make any changes to those two. However, we did replace your normal photon sabers with the high-end ones. The pile bunker¡¯s body was also made to be sturdier and the stake was refurbished to increase the penetration power as well.¡± ¡°So it¡¯s a general performance enhancement. What about the rifle?¡± ¡°Since it seems that the output of the 8.5Mw rifle wasn¡¯t enough to penetrate the enemy¡¯s armor plate, I took a plunge and prepared a new weapon for you instead. Please take a look here.¡± ¡°That one¡­..it¡¯s from one of the 4 Heavenly, [Parfeel] was it? We took the twin-mega blaster rifle from that heavy-duty zenith and remodeled it into a single mount version. It might be a little difficult to handle but I guarantee its firepower.¡± Since Kisei is very accurate with his shot, there¡¯s no need for them to go out of their way to add the whole twin mega blaster as it will only add deadweight instead. The chief made the right call to remodel it. However, Kisei has a difficult expression on his face. ¡°¡­..how many shots can I make?¡± ¡°¡­..it has 8 rounds in total.¡± ¡°That¡¯s too few¡­¡­I will bring the old rifle with me too when I sortie. It¡¯s too powerful so it would be a waste to use that on the normal strikers.¡± Having to deal with a large number of small fry is the pain of being an ace in an inferior army. The chief understood that so she¡¯s scratching her head with a bitter expression. ¡°Well, there¡¯s no way around it. The payload capacity has also increased so I think that we should be able to figure it out.¡± ¡°Then that should be good enough right. How long do you think it will take for you to finish it? The Noredian army won¡¯t be taking their time forever you know? If you can, I want it done as soon as possible.¡± Diaroze¡¯s demanding tone probably came from her old habit as a commander. On the other hand, the chief frowned. ¡°Well, it won¡¯t even take a week before we can finish up here. I also want to have a test flight before Nored makes a move too so I will do my best to complete it.¡± ¡°W, well, don¡¯t push yourself okay.¡± Seeing the dark smile on the chief¡¯s face as she started walking to the [Ex-Caliburn], Kisei could only see her off with a cramped expression. TLN: So, two-seater, crazy thick armor, improved sabers and pile bunker, new heavy duty 8 shots mega blaster rifle¡­¡­¡­.why didn¡¯t they add Diaroze¡¯s shotgun too I wonder¡­¡­¡­ CH 183 New Power At the military training ground on the outskirts of the capital. A striker with a rabbit-like antenna was hopping around in its mountainous terrain. ¡°Amazing¡­¡­.it¡¯s like I¡¯m riding a wild horse.¡± Inside its cockpit, Kisei commented with a complicated expression. As the chief said, the remodeling of [Ex-Caliburn] was completed in less than a week and now he¡¯s taken it out for a test flight. However, unlike [Caliburn-Revive], which was quite easy to handle, he can only describe the movement of [Ex-Caliburn] as violent. It¡¯s quite a difficult striker to pilot properly. ¡°Well, that¡¯s to be expected when it has 50 percent engine output right. No choice but to get used to it, no?¡± Said Diaroze with a happy smile from the pilot seat behind Kisei. To prevent her slave collar from accidentally detonating, this striker was remodeled to be a two-seater. However, although a striker is a 12 meters tall war machine, it¡¯s not like its cockpit is that wide. Inevitably, the cockpit now felt even narrower because of the additional seat and now Kisei¡¯s head is located right in front of Diaroze¡¯s crotch. A position where she can use her feet to stranglehold him whenever she feels like it. ¡°The power is amazing but¡­¡­.as I thought, the frame really can¡¯t keep up with the output. It makes me anxious since I can feel the whole thing creaking whenever I accelerate¡­¡­..¡± ¡°Really? I don¡¯t feel it though¡­¡­.¡± ¡°I haven¡¯t used its full power yet. If I accelerate to full speed then we might lose our balance. We have to be careful.¡± They reserved the whole training ground for today. Other than Kisei and Diaroze, only Nora and Tersis, whose strikers have finished being repaired,¡­¡­and Valentina who¡¯s received a new striker, are with them today. ¡°They didn¡¯t have to make it this flashy though, rather, I wish I could get something like that instead.¡± Saying so, Kisei turned his gaze to Valentina¡¯s new striker. Its design looked like a black [Caliburn-Revive] which he¡¯s familiar with. Its model name is [Collbrande], one could say that it¡¯s the new model that was improved upon [Excalibur], a Calencian Zenith that was destroyed when Kisei first joined Calencia in the war. Originally, it was intended for Kisei but with the [Ortho Kratzer] destroyed by Schleer, the army reluctantly gave it to Valentina to pilot. ¡°That one is just an improved [Caliburn-Revive] with a new high-end engine installed right? Can¡¯t we just switch¡­¡­¡­¡± ¡°You fool. You finally got your hand on a good striker so you should just try and make full use of it.¡± ¡°In my case, even if you give me a powerful striker it would just be a waste on me though¡­¡­¡± After all, with his frail(comparatively) body, he will just be crushed by the G from the acceleration if he uses the striker¡¯s full power. He might even die from that. It¡¯s his opinion that a striker that can match his opponent¡¯s minimum performance and firepower is good enough for him. ¡°If that¡¯s the case then this one will be handed to my foolish little sister you know. With what we have planned for her that would not be good right.¡± Diaroze whispered into Kisei¡¯s ear while using her hand to switch off the radio. As long as they turned that off they should have no need to whisper¡­¡­she probably did it because she wanted to. When her warm breath tickled his earlobe, Kisei¡¯s eyes squinted a little. ¡°Uuun¡­¡­well, since they went out of their way to remodel it for me, I guess I will have to use it huh.¡± Recalling the tired expression on the chief and the other mechanics, he can¡¯t possibly tell them [I don¡¯t want it] now that they have pushed themselves that much for him. ¡°Exactly. Also, it¡¯s about time the warm-up is done right. Let¡¯s try moving it like you would in a real battle next. If something goes wrong during a battle then it will become a double suicide you know.¡± Said Diaroze in a loose tone while rubbing her cheek against his. With the narrow cockpit, she can sexually harass him as much as she wants and he can¡¯t shake her off due to their physical difference. With a bitter expression, Kisei raises the throttle output. ¡°Guweh.¡± A huge blue flame spewed out from the main thruster on the back. Due to the enormous thrust generated, Kisei¡¯s body was strongly pressed back against his seat and he let out a small scream. Immediately after, Kisei lowered the power. ¡°They said that they improved on the inertial control too but as I thought, using full thrust is still too much for me¡­..¡± ¡°What, it¡¯s painful for you at this level? I¡¯m impressed you managed to defeat all 4 Heavenlys¡­¡­..¡± Her words may have sounded like a ridicule but Diaroze was truly impressed with his feat. After all, defeating a group of such powerful foes with an inferior body and striker from the front is not something that¡¯s in the realm of humans. ¡°The G was even stronger than this on [Zentis]?¡± While Kisei unintentionally screamed at the strong G, Diaroze seems completely oblivious to it. Realizing that, Kisei asked. ¡°Well, yeah. If I accelerate at full power then it would be painful even for me. Even though they put [Zentis] engine in this thing, it seems that the overall performance has deteriorated huh¡­¡­¡± In the end, this striker is a mix between two different strikers. It¡¯s impossible for this striker to surpass the original [Zentis] in terms of performance. ¡°Well, regardless of the performance, its pilot is still the best there is. No matter who we have to face, we will be able to figure it out. I know that better than anyone else.¡± Diaroze stated affectionately. TLN: So he can¡¯t fly at full speed with it¡­.. CH 184 Getting Accustomed What happens when the top ace who¡¯s already too overpowered with his skill alone gets his hands on a gun that can take out his opponent in one shot? The answer is an overwhelmingly one-sided battle. ¡°T, To think we got shot down 10 times straight¡­¡­¡± Nora moaned with an anguish expression inside the cockpit of [Zarava]. A few dozens of minutes have passed since their mock battle with the [Ex-Caliburn] in a 3 against one fight. They decided on that as if it was a matter of course and the result¡­¡­¡­ended up with the complete defeat on the side of the 3 former Noredian pilots. ¡°Lady Eleanor¡¯s firepower always feels so reliable when we have it on our side but it¡¯s truly terrifying when you are on the receiving end. To think that we can¡¯t even get close.¡± [Ex-Caliburn] is now equipped with the remodeled mega blaster rifle appropriated from the [Parfeel], Eleanor AKA the [Heavenly Thunder]¡¯s personal striker. Boasting its 12Mw output, this large-sized blaster rifle has enough firepower to penetrate even the armor of the other 4 Heavenly personal strikers with a single blow. ¡°¡­¡­Rather, I¡¯m surprised that My Love had been fighting us with this kind of low-end machine. It practically doesn¡¯t have any power, is slow-reacting, and doesn¡¯t have any good points besides its ease of handling. Moreover, this one is already better than the prototype model he used. Should I start laughing now?¡± ¡°That¡¯s cruel¡­¡­it was a good striker you know, [Caliburn-Revive] I mean¡­¡­¡­¡± Valentina is currently piloting the [Collbrande] which is effectively the [Caliburn-Revive] younger twin brother. She seems to be quite dissatisfied with it. That¡¯s a given since if she compared it to her old striker, the performance is just too poor. Still, there¡¯s no helping it since the amount of money invested in the development between the two is literally incomparable. ¡°She just can¡¯t admit that the reason she¡¯s been fighting so well so far is because of the performance of her machine [DESU]¡­..since your striker has become poorer now, you will have to put in more effort to fight alongside us proud 4 Heavenly [DESU]!¡± ¡°After betraying Nored, I don¡¯t think the 4 Heavenly have any pride that¡¯s worth boasting about though¡­¡­¡± Diaroze carefreely added that agitating comment but Nora ignored her and proceeded to restart her striker which has ceased to function by the training AI. Tersis also does the same. ¡°At least we have to get a blow in! Lady Nora, I leave the support to you!¡± With powerful acceleration, Tersis immediately drove her [Vanwolf] close to Kisei. After the repair, the strikers of the 4 Heavenly did not lose any of their performance, and her speed is as fast as she was before. ¡°Hey, a free score is flying our way again you know.¡± ¡°It¡¯s only a training exercise okay.¡± While bitterly smiling at Diaroze¡¯s carefree words, Kisei quickly turned the muzzle of his mega blaster rifle toward the approaching [Vanwolf]. However, while he was aiming, a thick ray from Nora¡¯s blaster magnum flew at him. ¡°We won¡¯t fall to the same thing over and over again [DESUYO!]. ¡°Kukuku, hearing a loser howling is always pleasant. Now, Master, shoot them down.¡± ¡°Why are you like this!¡± While retorting to Diaroze, Kisei was calm. Unsheathing the photon saber which was relocated from the slot on the chest area to the shoulder, he swings the green blade and deflects the beam toward [Vanwolf]. ¡°That¡¯s nothing!¡± However, as though she¡¯s already read that, Tersis also pulled out her photon saber using the [Vanwolf]¡¯s left hand and parried the beam away. ¡°Nice one¡­..!¡± Kisei smiled ferociously as he glanced at the deflected beam which flew away in a different direction. It seems that parrying a beam is no longer an ability exclusive to him. ¡°I¡¯m also growing after all!¡± Tersis proudly shouted as she swung her longsword down on [Ex-Caliburn]. Kisei doesn¡¯t avoid it but instead receives it with his photon saber. The longsword¡¯s magnetic field and the saber made of concentrated energy repelled each other, sending sparks flying. Being subjected to such a strong charge, the [Ex-Caliburn] activated its sole anchors to withstand the impact. ¡°My power-up is not just for show either¡­¡­.!¡± [Ex-Caliburn] was pushed back a little but it managed to endure the charge. If it was before, he would have been blown away with [Caliburn-Revive]. It¡¯s worth replacing the engine and remodeling the high-end Zenith of Nored to lower its performance for his use. The high performance is not bad, right? Both for your body and my own safety. It would be a problem if we can¡¯t get the best striker possible.¡± ¡°Maybe!¡± While they were having that exchange, [Vanwolf] uses its left hand to swing the photon saber at him. Seeing that, Kisei immediately pulled the trigger on his control stick. Paint bullets rained on the saber¡¯s grip and the AI judged that it was disabled. ¡°I won¡¯t let you dual-wield your way to victory you know!¡± ¡°Ugh, I want a machine gun too!¡± Noredian strikers do not have head-mounted machine guns. Tersis was gritting her teeth at that fact when Valentina¡¯s voice suddenly rang out. ¡°Step back!¡± From the side, the [Collbrande] rushed in with a long lance. Realizing that Valentina is trying to charge Kisei with the opening she made, Tersis retreats. ¡°You will let us have this one, My Love!¡± ¡°Naive!¡± With a grin, Kisei avoided the [Collbrande]¡¯s charge. He then loses his photon saber and grabs the arm of [Collbrande], using its momentum to throw it at [Vanwolf]. ¡°Wha!?¡± ¡°Uwah!¡± The two strikers were blown away by the impact with a loud noise. After that, Kisei mercilessly shot his mega blaster rifle. Almost at the same moment Tersis¡¯s [Vanwolf] was hit, an empty particle cartridge was ejected and the next round was already loaded. The second round was then shot at Valentina¡¯s [Collbrande] when it was about to stand up. With one shot each, the two strikers were disabled. ¡°Kuh, even if it¡¯s just me!¡± Nora stayed calm despite her earlier attitude. While using her magnums to suppress [Ex-Caliburn]¡¯s movement, she kicked off the ground and blew her thruster. ¡°You might be the better shot¡­¡­but you can¡¯t move well with a weapon that size right!¡± In the end, the mega blaster rifle is a fairly large weapon. That¡¯s why its wielder should have poor maneuverability in close quarters. Her plan is to close in and take him down, given that she¡¯s a close-quarter specialist. ¡°Hmph!¡± While defending himself from the barrage of beams with his saber, Kisei stored the mega blaster rifle back on the hardpoint on the back. He then wields the photon saber using both hands and plunges toward [Zarava]. ¡°Did you get influenced by Saki-SAN or something!?¡± ¡°It¡¯s not like I hate sword fights in the first place you know!¡± ¡°But I don¡¯t have to go along eithe¨C¡­¡­.Ugh!¡± The acceleration power of [Ex-Caliburn] was more than Nora expected. He was fighting with a weapon that he should be trying to keep her at a distance but he was the one who approached her himself. Nora somehow managed to intercept his saber with the bayonet on her magnum but her magnum was pushed back by sheer force. ¡°Kugh!¡± Nora was trying to withdraw but it was too late. With a roaring sound, the pile bunker was plunged toward [Zarava]¡¯s abdomen and the AI immediately notified her that her striker is now disabled. ¡°Damn it¡­¡­.¡± In the end, the eleventh mock battle also ended in their defeat. With a groan of regret, Nora let go of her control stick. CH 185 Badgering ¡°Ahh, I¡¯m drenched¡­.¡± After the exercise, Kisei returned to his room and stretched. His jet-black hair was moist and wet as though he just left a shower. ¡°Uuun, still, that¡¯s my first time in a striker in a while huh.¡± Due to the long vacation, he hasn¡¯t touched a striker for quite some time. The vacation was nice but he still felt the most joy being in a striker. However, once he marries Schleer and the others, he will have less chance to climb inside the cockpit. Thinking so, he felt a little down. ¡°¡­¡­¡­¡± Kisei was looking up at the ceiling in silence but suddenly, a knock came from the door. He hurriedly heads to the door and finds that he¡¯s got visitors. On the display at the door were Nora and Tersis. ¡°Coming.¡± Aside from Tersis who stayed on board the [Radiant], Nora should have been on Valentina¡¯s ship, the [Prussia]. While doubting what they are doing together, Kisei opens the door. ¡°Oh, you are in after all.¡± Without any further words, Nora nonchalantly entered the room. With a bitter smile, Tersis gives him a bow. ¡°My apology for the sudden visit, My Lord.¡± ¡°I¡¯m free so I don¡¯t mind but what do you want?¡± ¡°Well, about that¡­¡­.¡± Tersis shakes her head sideways with a troubled expression. ¡°Lady Nora told me that she has a business with you so I simply accompany her. It¡¯s Lady Nora so I can not be sure if she will try something if she¡¯s alone with you after all.¡± ¡°I think she wouldn¡¯t try anything too weird though¡­¡­..¡± He has a lot of skinship with Nora but rarely does she push him down against his will. With a small smile, Kisei urged Tersis to sit down. ¡°Well it¡¯s fine. Anyway, make yourself at home.¡± Tersis quietly nodded and sat down. This time Kisei¡¯s eyes turned toward Nora. ¡°Hehehe¡­¡­..¡± Nora who received his gaze straight on made a weird laugh. In response, cold sweat dripped down on his forehead. ¡°Come one, we are already engaged aren¡¯t we?¡± ¡°¡­..well, yeah.¡± Although they still haven¡¯t submitted the documents yet, the two have already signed both of their names on the paper. But why is she bringing that up now? Kise doubted. ¡°But you see, I just realized that I¡¯ve always been the one who¡¯s done the kissing but you¡¯ve never kissed me before. That¡¯s why I came to get a kiss [DESU].¡± ¡°I, is that right¡­¡­..¡± Certainly, he has been kissed by Nora several times but he has never initiated one before. Vulds usually kiss their lover on the forehead so they should take turns kissing each other¡¯s forehead. ¡°Lady Nora, you can¡¯t bother My Lord for such a silly reason¡­¡­¡± ¡°It¡¯s not silly [DESU]! Skinship is important [DESUYO]! If your bodies are too far apart then even the hearts might be distant too [DESU]!¡± Nora protested. She then glares at Kisei. ¡°You have been doing this and that with the princess, the slave, and even the samurai right! Since I can¡¯t do that, I should be able to get at least a kiss [DESU]!¡± ¡°We haven¡¯t done it since we returned to the ship though¡­¡­..¡± It would be a big deal if the common soldiers knew so they planned to announce the marriage after the war ended. Of course, they won¡¯t risk having sex on board the ship either. Even if the room is private, soldiers do come to his room to make a bed for him after all. That being said, he also understands where Nora came from. Besides, a forehead kiss is not that much of a hurdle for him. It doesn¡¯t feel right for him to do anything more since Nora is only 14 after all. ¡°I got it, I got it. You don¡¯t have to make that kind of face.¡± Letting out a small sigh at Nora¡¯s inflated cheeks, Kisei gently scooped her red-tinted gray bangs up. He then gently puts his lips on her white forehead. On the receiving end, Nora¡¯s expression loosened and she sighed a little. ¡°Like this?¡± After about ten seconds, Kisei parted his lips from Nora¡¯s forehead. On the other hand, Nora silently urged him to crouch down. Since it¡¯s clear what she wants, Kisei obediently complies. ¡°¡­¡­.¡± Nora placed her lips on Kisei¡¯s forehead and left it there for more than thirty seconds. After she finally let go, Nora tapped Kisei on his shoulders. Meanwhile, Tersis who¡¯s been watching them has a slightly moody expression on her face. ¡°This! This is it [DESUYO]! Let¡¯s do this every day [DESU]!¡± ¡°E, every day¡­¡­?¡± ¡°Every day [DESU]!¡± Nora was excited but she also glanced toward Tersis at the same time. It doesn¡¯t look like she¡¯s jealous and she¡¯s only watching over them with interest. It appears that a kiss between fiances doesn¡¯t count as ¡®trying something¡¯ for her so she doesn¡¯t step in. ¡°Ahh, that¡¯s right. I¡¯m fine with us doing the Vuld style but since Kisei-SAN is a Terran, she should be doing it Terran style too [DESU].¡± ¡°¡­¡­Eh!?¡± ¡°I heard from Saki-SAN [DESU]. Terrans usually kiss each other mouth to mouth right. It will be fine as long as I don¡¯t let the saliva slip! Let¡¯s do it [DESU]!¡± ¡°S, Seriously¡­..I mean, you have been talking about that kind of stuff with Saki huh¡­¡­¡± A kiss between a 19-year-old and a 14-year-old. From Kisei¡¯s POV, that¡¯s already a crime. However, since this is a Vuld country, this much difference in age is not a problem. While being looked at with Nora¡¯s sparkling and expectant eyes, Kisei¡¯s mouth formed into a single line. After a moment of hesitation, he put both hands on Nora¡¯s cheeks and gently kissed her lips. ¡°¡«¡«!¡± Greatly excited, Nora also holds Kisei¡¯s face with her hands and her rough breath hits Kisei¡¯s face. With this, he can¡¯t let go on his own. Nora¡¯s youthful face was so close that their noses could touch so even Kisei¡¯s heart started to race too. With the lips stuck together, Nora glanced at Tersis with a slightly annoyed look. If Tersis is not here then she might have just stuck her tongue in. Since that would be a problem, Kisei on the other hand was quite relieved at Tersis¡¯s presence. ¡°Uuhah! Amazing! That was amazing!¡± After more than three minutes, Nora finally released Kisei. And with her face bright red, Nora licks her lips. ¡°It¡¯s like a rehearsal for the real deal so it¡¯s super lewd [DESU]!¡± ¡°L, Lewd¡­..¡± ¡°One more time! Let¡¯s do it one more time!¡± It seems that she was overjoyed that she abandoned the use of her strange suffix. Since she¡¯s that happy about it and he also doesn¡¯t feel bad, Kisei complied and kissed her lips again. ¡°Uhehehehe.¡± Nora¡¯s expression has already become loose but she realized that Tersis was calmly watching them from the side. As expected, it¡¯s embarrassing. This time, Nora¡¯s cheeks reddened for a different reason but suddenly an idea came to her. ¡°That¡¯s right! Since Tersis-SAN will also marry Kisei-SAN so Tersis-SAN should do it too. I would feel bad if I get to do it alone [DESU]!¡± Nora¡¯s smile seems to hide something nasty contrary to her words. Her plan is to let Tersis get the taste of the same stimulation she received and let her show her embarrassing side too. CH 186 The Knight¡¯s Awakening Hearing Nora basically says that she should kiss Kisei too, Tersis¡¯s expression turned into a confused one. That couldn¡¯t be helped since she was suddenly asked to join in when she had been silently watching the two of them kiss, it would rather be difficult for her to not be surprised at all. ¡°Why?¡± Said Tersis as she involuntarily got up from her chair. She then glanced at Kisei. ¡°I mean, of course, I do not hate the idea of kissing My Lord. Rather, it would only trouble My Lord to kiss someone like me, no?¡± ¡°I¡¯d never think that way¡­¡­¡­¡± Kisei himself doesn¡¯t dislike Tersis either so he shook his head to her question and glanced at Nora. ¡°Still, why did you suggest that? A kiss should be something you do when both sides want to right.¡± ¡°Well, Tersis-SAN wants to have a child with Kisei-SAN right?¡± ¡°Umu.¡± Tersis affirmed with not a hint of shyness. Instead, it was Kisei who looked away. Although he already has experiences with women, he still can¡¯t handle this kind of talk head-on. ¡°Do you think that a woman who can¡¯t even kiss well can make a child?¡± ¡°¡­..Nn? I see¡­..¡± ¡°You are convinced by that¡­¡­¡­¡± Kisei thought that logic was quite ridiculous but Tersis clapped her hands together and agreed so his face cramped up a little. ¡°A forehead kiss doesn¡¯t have anything to do with child making but a kiss on the lips is important [DESU]. It¡¯s your chance to practice now [DESUYO].¡± ¡°Fumu, that does sound reasonable.¡± ¡°It does?¡± Kisei involuntarily retorted but Tersis turned toward him without minding that. Shyness and shame were absent from her expression. She once said that she doesn¡¯t know what kind of feeling love is before and it doesn¡¯t seem like it was an exaggeration. ¡°Well, I don¡¯t know how it will go until I try. If it¡¯s fine with My Lord then please allow me to try it at least once.¡± ¡°It¡¯s not like you will do any harm so just do it [DESU].¡± Perhaps disliking how calm Tersis is, Nora added with a sullen expression. After thinking about it for a moment, Kisei nods. After all, he was the one who offered her the marriage. It would be rude to her if he refuses here. However, he does feel a little self-loath at how he could come to that decision so quickly now. ¡°Well then, please excuse me.¡± Saying so, Tersis walked up to Kisei and slightly crouched down. She¡¯s so tall that they wouldn¡¯t be able to kiss him unless she did this. ¡°Ahh, since Kisei-SAN has way more experience when it comes to kissing, you should be the one to take the lead this time.¡± ¡°Can you not put it like I¡¯m okay with kissing anyone¡­¡­¡± ¡°How many women have Kisei-SAN kissed so far though?¡± ¡°¡­¡­five.¡± He thought that this kind of question should be about the number of times he has done it but it was about the number of women he has done it with instead. Nonetheless, he answered truthfully. ¡°Is that not plenty enough? Tersis-SAN has never kissed anyone before right?¡± When Nora asked so with a grin, Tersis nodded with a difficult expression. ¡°I¡¯ve never been interested in men before so I have never even held hands with any except my father.¡± ¡°See?¡± ¡°¡­¡­¡± With an equally difficult expression, Kisei averted his eyes. ¡°Well, the person with more experience should take the lead in this kind of thing [DESUYO]. If you go at it too strong then you would just smack each other with your teeth after all.¡± ¡°Fumu, understood. Very well, please take care of me, My Lord.¡± ¡°You can¡¯t close your eyes either you know. You have to see how it¡¯s done properly after all.¡± ¡°I know.¡± Saying so, Tersis presented her face. With no other choice, Kisei placed his lips on hers. The soft sensation which he has already grown accustomed to spread on his lips. On the other hand, Tersis, whose eyes were wide open, turned redder and redder. Then, Kisei can feel a rough breath on his face. ¡°Hyu¡­¡­¡± In a terrible panic, Tersis withdrew back. While holding her cheeks which had become red like a ripped apple, she swallowed down her saliva. Meanwhile, hearing the clear sound of her gulping down, Nora¡¯s grin widened. ¡°Oya Oya, what¡¯s wrong Tersis-SAN. Was it something that the [Heavenly Blade] herself has to back down from?¡± ¡°Wha¡­..! No, I didn¡¯t¡­¡­.it¡¯s just, my heart was pounding!?¡± ¡°Hou, then you don¡¯t have a problem doing it again [DESUYONE]?¡± Nora cruelly said that while staring straight into Tersis¡¯s eyes. Tersis took a step back but when she saw the confused look on Kisei¡¯s face, she stopped herself. Probably thinking that backing away would be rude to him, she hastily places her hands on his shoulders. ¡°M, My apology! Please continue!¡± Hearing that, Kisei kissed her again. This time he¡¯s treating her like a fragile object. However, unlike earlier, Tersis¡¯s eyes were shut tight. The sound of her heart loudly beating was even audible to him. He can feel Tersis¡¯s body getting hotter through his lips. She¡¯s clearly lost her calm. For a while, their lips lay atop each other¡¯s but before long, Tersis¡¯s hips gave out. Saliva dripped from the edge of her lips and she had to wipe it in a hurry while repeatedly swallowing the rest down her throat. ¡°U, uwahh!¡± Perhaps her shame has reached its peak, Tersis shot up like a spring-loaded toy and held her bright red face with both hands. Just like that she tottered off and leaped out of the room. ¡°Hahahaha! That¡¯s it! That¡¯s what I wanted to see [DESU]!¡± Nora was overjoyed at the sight and laughed out loud while pointing at the door where Tersis just left through. ¡°What just happened¡­¡­¡± Drenched in a cold sweat, Kisei asked. Even if it¡¯s normal to be embarrassed, Tersis¡¯s reaction was that unusual. ¡°You saw how Tersis-SAN kept swallowing down her saliva right?¡± ¡°Yeah.¡± ¡°We are a race that produces a lot of salivae when we are aroused [DESU]. Of course, it¡¯s to use it on the male partner. In other words, Tersis-SAN felt so aroused earlier that she couldn¡¯t endure it [DESU].¡± Nora waves her hand with a proud smile. ¡°That person has never taken any interest in men [DESUYO]. That just now might be her so-called sexual awakening you know?¡± ¡°Sexually awakened by a kiss? A Vuld¡­¡­?¡± Nora continued to laugh as Kisei was weirded out a little. She then turns her gaze to the door again. ¡°Now then, with the stiff out of the way, we can get to the main subject now [DESU].¡± ¡°That wasn¡¯t the main subject!?¡± ¡°Well, it¡¯s one of the reasons I¡¯m here [DESU]. Actually, I came here because I have something important to talk with you about [DESU].¡± Seeing Nora¡¯s expression turned serious, Kisei sullenly shook his head. To be honest, his mind was already quite damaged from the kissing incident alone. It would be nice if he can avoid any more troublesome things. ¡°What is it?¡± ¡°It¡¯s possible that we might have to add another wife for Kisei-SAN [DESU].¡± Hearing that, Kisei¡¯s frown extremely deepened. TLN: I support this route¡­¡­¡­¡­.gap moe? CH 187 Scheme ¡°What are you talking about¡­..¡± Terribly confused, Kisei asked back. This time even Nora looked back at him with a little sympathy. ¡°About that¡­¡­¡± When Nora was about to explain, suddenly, the door was violently knocked on. The two looked at each other. When Nora gives him a nod, Kisei hurries toward the door and checks the monitor. It seems that the one who was banging on his door was Diaroze so he immediately unlocked and opened it. ¡°Tersis just ran past me, her face was bright red. What happened?¡± That was her immediate question when the door was opened. Her well-shaped brows are squinted together. It seems that she saw the result of what happened earlier so Kisei was a little scared to tell her. ¡°Well, that was¡­¡­..¡± ¡°Ahh, good timing. Now we have an evil schemes expert. Please join us Diaroze-SAN.¡± Said Nora who appeared from behind Kisei. It was clear from Diaroze¡¯s expression that she is questioning him why Nora¡¯s here but she didn¡¯t press it and entered the room after a small sigh. ¡°I have my own thing that I need to talk with Master about too though¡­¡­well, fine. What do you want?¡± ¡°Well, about that. Nora said that she might have to add another bride to the list¡­¡­¡± ¡°Haa?¡± Diaroze was immediately confused by that as well. She then stares at Nora¡¯s face and frowns when she realized that she¡¯s not joking. ¡°A bride huh, a bride. Just who on earth are you talking about? If we increase the number even more it will put more burden on Master and the time we can spend alone with him will decrease you know. For the record, I¡¯m against it.¡± ¡°Of course, I understand that too. Still, I think it¡¯s a price that we need to pay [DESU].¡± Nora sighed with a difficult expression. ¡°It¡¯s Eleanor [DESUYO]. She¡¯s staying here as a POW right now, right? I want Kisei-SAN to convince her to be our ally [DESU].¡± ¡°Eleanor? The one who piloted that heavy-duty Zenith?¡± That should be one of the 4 Heavenly, the [Heavenly Thunder] who stayed with Diaroze until the end and didn¡¯t switch to Calencia side. In the first place, since she¡¯s already freed from her duty to Diaroze, it¡¯s strange that she still chooses to resist though¡­¡­. ¡°Yes, that¡¯s her. She¡¯s a good pilot and her parents¡¯ house is loaded [DESU]. She¡¯s kind of a dum-dum though¡­¡­¡­but if we have her as our ally then I¡¯m sure that she will be a great help [DESU].¡± ¡°I see. I get what you are saying now.¡± Diaroze nodded. Nora is right. The current Calencian army is still terribly lacking. It would be a huge benefit for them if they can get a pilot of Eleanor¡¯s caliber and the power of her house on their side. ¡°But would she really turn on Nored that easily? She might be stupid but she¡¯s a serious person at her roots you know. It would be hard to plot a scheme that can rope her in.¡± ¡°That¡¯s where this man¡¯s excessive sex appeal comes in [DESUYO]. If we have him seduce her and make her try to lay her hand on him then I can rush in and say [HEY, WHAT ARE YOU DOING TO MY MAN!?] then I think someone who has such a strong sense of responsibility like her would yield whatever demand we make [DESU].¡± ¡°ISN¡¯T THAT JUST A HONEY TRAP!?¡± Kisei involuntarily retorted. After all, that was quite an outrageous scheme she¡¯s suggesting. ¡°Your plan is too sloppy. Even if everything goes well we would only be able to get Eleanor¡¯s help. A plan like that won¡¯t make her house budge.¡± Said Diaroze while putting her index finger on her cheek. However, contrary to her dismissive words, it seems that she¡¯s pondering on something. ¡°But the main idea behind the plan isn¡¯t too bad. How can we convince her house though¡­¡­..¡± ¡°As expected from our own evil scheme expert [DESUNE].¡± Even Nora didn¡¯t think that her plan would work so she had a nasty smile on her face when she successfully got Diaroze on board. ¡°Somehow, I got a bad feeling about this¡­¡­..¡± He fell victim to her scheme before so Kisei naturally frowned at the development. Of course, he understands that the Calencian army is not in a very good spot so he also agreed that they need to increase their allies though¡­¡­ ¡°¡­..for the time being, I think I have a rough plan. Master¡­¡­aslo, Nora. Come with me. We are bringing this to Schleer.¡± ¡°Eh, is that okay? I mean, Schleer seems like she¡¯s very busy right¡­¡­.¡± Schleer did not show up at the test flight earlier. She was stuck with her work which accumulated during their long vacation. If they suddenly go to her like this she probably won¡¯t have time for them. ¡°It¡¯s fine. I came here to call Master on her behalf in the first place after all.¡± ¡°Ah, I see.¡± If that¡¯s the case then it should be fine. Kisei thought so but he couldn¡¯t shake this strange premonition he has. What does Schleer want with him? She should be very busy so perhaps she wanted to talk to him during her break? It would be great if that¡¯s all she wants though¡­¡­. TLN: We have a honey trap in the progress next week I think¡­.. CH 188 An Aristocrat¡¯s Marriage 1 ¡°I see.¡± Changing the location, they are now at the fleet command center onboard the [Radiant]. The room which has already turned into Schleer¡¯s office is filled with documents and empty cans of energy drinks. After hearing Nora¡¯s plan, Schleer, who has dark circles formed under her eyes, nodded. ¡°Eleanor-san¡¯s house¡­¡­.that¡¯s the Fafleta house, correct? If my memory serves me right, that¡¯s quite a powerful house isn¡¯t it?¡± ¡°Yeah, it only holds the rank of countess but they have a lot of rare minerals in their territory so they are very powerful in terms of financial power. Thanks to that, they are growing in power in Nored despite being a recently found house.¡± ¡°So to put it the other way, they are an upstart aren¡¯t they.¡± Said Solana, Schleer¡¯s staff officer. ¡°The timing is great, their Head Retainer will be visiting us to negotiate the release of the POW. This would be our best chance to draw them in as our ally.¡± A Head Retainer is the highest position given to a servant of a noble house. This may not be as good as the family head visiting them herself but a Head Retainer still holds a lot of authority in the house. As a negotiation partner, the Head Retainer would probably be good enough. ¡°But unlike Tersis-san, Eleanor-san is not the family head. Will it be so easy to negotiate with them? No, in the first place, will Eleanor-san really be willing to betray her country¡­¡­.¡± Of course, Schleer had already tried negotiating with her to see if she was willing to join Calencia but Eleanor stubbornly turned her down. She claimed that she can¡¯t just betray her country. ¡°I have a plan for that.¡± ¡°So you have one¡­¡­¡­¡± Schleer has already got a taste of what Diaroze¡¯s schemes entail so she was drawn back a little. ¡°For the time being, I can do something about her house as long as we have Eleanor with us. After that, you can leave the negotiation with her house to me. I will serve them up on a silver platter for you.¡± ¡°Why are you so gung-ho about this¡­..¡± Solana cast a suspicious gaze on Diaroze. Naturally, it¡¯s obvious for her to doubt the former enemy general who is suddenly so willing to cooperate. The normal line of thinking would be that she¡¯s pretending to side with them while waiting for a chance of betrayal. ¡°I¡¯ve already shared a bath and even slept on the same futon as your princess you know! Besides, if I act suspiciously then you can detonate this collar at any time right. You can even attach someone to monitor me so just trust me on this.¡± ¡°Eh, same futon!?¡± Said Solana as she looked alternately between Schleer and Diaroze with the eyes that say [You two have that kind of relationship!?]. In reply, Schleer shook her head sideways with her face bright red. ¡°W, Well, leaving that aside. Even if we can do something about the negotiation with the Fafletas, what are we going to do with Eleanor-san? According to what I heard about her, she seems to be pretty stubborn though.¡± ¡°Umu, about that¡­¡­¡± With an apologetic look, Diaroze glanced at Kisei. Realizing that his turn has arrived, Kisei shakes his head. ¡°I¡¯m thinking of arranging a marriage interview with her and Master. If Master and Eleanor get married, she would consequently become Schleer¡¯s sister-in-law. That way we should be able to bar the Fafletas from entering the war.¡± ¡°Eh, In-law!?¡± Solana looked at Schleer with a terribly shocked expression. Her expression says, [YOU TRAITOR!] ¡°N, N, No way, Your Highness! He agreed to marry you!?¡± ¡°Y, yes¡­¡­¡± Schleer replied with a blush. ¡°What, you still haven¡¯t told her yet?¡± Ignoring Diaroze who seemed to be baffled by that, Solana gazes imploringly at Kisei. ¡°It¡¯s not Her Highness¡¯s usual delusion!?¡± ¡°Umm, yes. We plan to submit the document after the war is over¡­¡­¡­.¡± ¡°U, Uwahhh!! I was too late!!¡± Solana crouched down and held her head. Seeing her like that, Nora makes a nasty smile. ¡°Ah, I¡¯m also engaged to him [DESU]. Man, what a shame isn¡¯t it, it¡¯s like I just took an idol from an otaku!¡± ¡°AHHHHHHH!! EVEN THE LITTLE BRAT FROM NORED!!¡± Apparently, Solana was aiming for Kisei as well. Realizing that, Diaroze tries to comfort Solana who¡¯s now rolling on the floor. ¡°I, I mean, we still haven¡¯t submitted it yet, since you are such a loyal vassal we should be able to add your name to the paper¡­¡­.¡± While mumbling something incomprehensible to herself, Solana shakily stands up. She then stares intensely at Schleer. ¡°That¡¯s a good plan for us to forge a tie with the Fafleta house but if that¡¯s the case, won¡¯t Prince Ao be better suited for this?¡± It is not common to have a marriage be shared by that many houses. For a marriage that ties two houses together, it is customary that the partner is single. Fortunately, Schleer¡¯s younger brother is still unmarried. ¡°You have a prince! That¡¯s good. If that¡¯s the case then we can leave this to him.¡± Diaroze was reluctant about adding more brides to Kisei from the start. Since there are already so many, adding more would not be good for him. That¡¯s why Diaroze¡¯s expression immediately brightened. However, Schleer shook her head sideways. ¡°No, that is impossible¡­¡­..it¡¯s still unofficial but Ao is in a marriage talk with our neighboring country at the moment.¡± Schleer¡¯s expression was also complicated. On the personal level, she is also against Kisei having more wives but on the other hand, she¡¯s also reluctant to leave her precious younger brother to a noble from an enemy country. That being said, she can¡¯t be immature here so she decided to state her thoughts as someone in charge. ¡°The country in question has been providing us with a lot of funds and supplies for this war. Even if it¡¯s still unofficial, we can¡¯t be the one to back out now.¡± ¡°¡­¡­¡­..¡± With her hope shattered, Diaroze let out a deep long sigh¡­¡­. CH 189 An Aristocrat¡¯s Marriage 2 ¡°Well, if we go with the prince then it will become a political marriage [DESUYO]? For this to work, we need to entrap Eleanor-SAN right?¡± As though to shake off the awkward atmosphere, Nora casually raised her point. In the first place, this plan will not work unless Eleanor herself is willing to switch sides. To that end, offering Prince Ao to her in a political marriage wouldn¡¯t be enough. ¡°Besides, it would be bad to have the prince be a part of such a scheme, isn¡¯t it? On that point, I think Kisei-SAN is more suitable [DESU]. He already has a track record of seducing Noredian soldiers to this side after all.¡± ¡°It¡¯s true but can you not put it like that!!¡± For Kisei personally, he did not go out of his way to seduce anyone at all. It¡¯s already turned out like that when he noticed it. Thinking ¡®I¡¯ve done nothing wrong at all¡¯ Kisei lightly glared at Nora. ¡°Rather, is our situation so bad that we must have this Eleanor person on our side? If we are not that desperate then I don¡¯t want to enact such a dirty scheme though.¡± Seducing an enemy to switch sides really can be categorized as a dirty scheme. Moreover, the fact that he¡¯s going to be the centerpiece of this plan is probably making Kisei feels even more conflicted. Still, Schleer lowers her head to him with an extremely apologetic look. ¡°If our intelligence department is correct then it seems that Nored is mobilizing everything they¡¯ve got. No matter how much Kisei-san can accomplish, it would be meaningless if our main force is being destroyed in the meantime. You can say that the force they mobilize this time would warrant an unconditional surrender under a normal circumstance.¡± ¡°Th, that much¡­¡­..¡± Hearing how despairingly large the gap between the two forces is, Kisei¡¯s face stiffened. It¡¯s clear that the situation is much more serious than he expected since it came from Schleer who had fought so far without giving up. ¡°¡­¡­¡­¡± ¡°It¡¯s still a secret but fortunately we have full support from Tersis-san¡¯s house, the Melemheim. We also have a lot of strategies in place but¡­¡­¡± Schleer glanced at Diaroze who lightly smiled and shrugged. ¡°But unless we use everything we have, there¡¯s no chance of victory. It¡¯s difficult for me to say this as well but I¡¯d like Kisei-san to cooperate with us on this¡­¡­.¡± Schleer¡¯s expression was filled with bitterness and powerlessness. In the end, Kisei could only groan and let out a small sigh before replying. ¡°Alright, I got it. Anything for victory right.¡± ¡°I¡¯m really sorry. I will definitely repay you in full after the war¡­¡­!¡± Schleer strongly stated so, her eyes contain a certain sense of her determination. Seeing that, Diaroze lightly smiles at her. ¡°Alright. Then let us arrange a meeting with Eleanor as soon as possible. Another one with the retainer from Fafleta too.¡± ¡°Do you have a plan?¡± ¡°Umu, Nora, you get along with Eleanor right?¡± Hearing that, Nora¡¯s face cramped up a little. ¡°We are not friends [DESUYO]. She just came and talked to me on her own, she even sent me a gift sometimes¡­¡­seriously, I don¡¯t really get that person [DESU].¡± ¡°I don¡¯t care how you feel about her. From what I saw, I think that you are something like a little sister to Eleanor. We are going to use that.¡± ¡°Seriously, you really are an expert at all things evil [DESUNE]¡­¡­.¡± Nora was taken aback but she knows that Diaroze is the best at this kind of evil scheme so she simply shrugged and didn¡¯t say anything more. ¡°Eleanor was placed under house arrest at a hotel in the capital at the moment. If we are going to see her then we should be able to do it as soon as tomorrow.¡± Said Solana as she checked the information on her terminal. Eleanor is currently being treated as a POW of the Calencian army. However, since she¡¯s a high-ranking aristocrat, they couldn¡¯t just throw her in with the common POWs. as a result, they came to a compromise and confined her in a room at a luxury hotel in the capital. ¡°Then let¡¯s arrange a meeting with Eleanor in the morning and the Fafleta in the afternoon. Also, Schleer, I want you to come with us too if possible¡­¡­.¡± ¡°Impossible! Her Highness absolutely can not leave!¡± Instead of Schleer, it was Solana who shouted so. The person herself looked bitter as though she has just chewed on a mouthful of worms. It seems that she¡¯s tired of working herself to the bone from dusk till dawn as well¡­.. ¡°If you need a royalty to go with you to the negotiation then Her Highness Frea should be returning from abroad today. You should be fine with Her Highness Frea, no?¡± ¡°Her Highness Frea, you mean Schleer¡¯s older sister?¡± Kisei has met Frea before. She¡¯s a bright woman who looks exactly like Schleer, she¡¯s currently in charge of managing the Calencia army¡¯s supply. ¡°That¡¯s correct. When it comes to negotiation, I believe that Her Highness Frea would be more reliable than Her Highness Schleer here.¡± ¡°A, aren¡¯t you a little too harsh on your superior¡­¡­..¡± Said Schleer in protest as she lowered her head. ¡°I don¡¯t really want to trouble her with this when she¡¯s just come back from a diplomatic trip but there¡¯s no way around it. ¡°Very well then the attendees from our side will be Master, me, and Nora. I will leave the meeting arrangement to you.¡± ¡°Understood. I will leave the negotiation to you.¡± Said Schleer with her head still down. She doubts if she should really rely this much on a former enemy general but Diaroze is the most capable strategist they have right now so she can¡¯t imagine anyone else taking care of it. It would be the end of Calencia if she did betray them but Schleer decided to trust her. ¡°¡­..oh no, look at the time.¡± When she raised her face up and glanced at the clock, Schleer¡¯s face stiffened. ¡°Let¡¯s leave it at this for now. Kisei-san, Diaroze-san, please prepare to move. The speed boat should already be waiting for you.¡± ¡°Eh, what are you talking about!?¡± Naturally, Kisei was troubled when he was suddenly told that a boat is here to pick him up so he looked at Diaroze with a frown. The fact that she visited his room earlier must have been related to this. ¡°You still haven¡¯t told him!?¡± ¡°I didn¡¯t have time to!¡± Diaroze replied to Schleer who panicked and stood up from her chair. In return, Schleer holds her head and sighs. ¡°Aah, there¡¯s no helping it. We don¡¯t have time so please give him the explanation on the boat.¡± ¡°No way around it then¡­¡­¡± Diaroze reluctantly nodded. ¡°Eh, what? Where are you taking me!?¡± Schleer¡¯s eyes turned incredibly sympathetic as she looked at the upset Kisei. Feeling a very bad premonition, a chill ran down Kisei¡¯s spine. ¡°Umm, well¡­¡­.I¡¯ve to apologize in advance but this is essential to our victory¡­¡­..please forgive me.¡± ¡°W, Wha, what are you talking about¡­¡­.¡± To her extremely apologetic look, Kisei couldn¡¯t help but want to cry. TLN: Now entering the yabai land¡­.. CH 190 ¡°So, what do you want me to do¡­¡­¡­¡­¡± Asked Kisei in the cabin of a small boat. The boat is now sailing far away from the port where the [Radiant] is anchored. The only one inside the cabin was Kisei and Diaroze. ¡°W, Well, it¡¯s a little hard to say, you see?¡± Diaroze averted her eyes away with a terribly nervous expression. A bead of cold sweat appeared on her face and her hands were fidgeting. ¡°Umm, well, let¡¯s call it¡­..a video shoot?¡± ¡°What kind of video?¡± That short question halted Diaroze¡¯s hands. And after 30 seconds of silence, she finally opens her mouth. ¡°¡­¡­.an AV.¡± ¡°AV?¡± ¡°AV¡­¡­.¡± ¡°Like audiovisuals?¡± ¡°Adult video¡­¡­.¡± ¡°WHY!!¡± As expected, he freaked out. He jumped up from his seat and shouted as loud as he could. Even though she already expected this reaction, Diaroze¡¯s expression distorted. ¡°T, To be precise. It¡¯s a video of me screaming in delight while Master hitting me with a whip.¡± ¡°WHY!!¡± Kisei screamed the same word. It doesn¡¯t mean that he¡¯s reluctant to hit her with a whip. Since he knows that it¡¯s her fetish, he wouldn¡¯t refuse that kind of play either. However, he doesn¡¯t like the idea of that being filmed and the fact that it¡¯s clear that the footage will be used for military purposes later. Why would Schleer want the military involved in their private life? ¡°To send it to the Nored army¡­¡­.¡± ¡°S, Sending it to them!? That kind of thing!?¡± ¡°Umu¡­¡­¡± Diaroze seems a little happy for some reason and started fidgeting with her index fingers. ¡°In short, it¡¯s a demoralizing strategy by showing them the video of [the person who they believe to be their next empress doing an ahe*** face while doing a peace sign after being trained by a male mercenary¡­¡­].¡± ¡°I¡¯m having a headache.¡± Kisei sits back down with a difficult expression. Who and how did they come up with this crazy strategy? Moreover, it¡¯s simply outrageous knowing that it has got Schleer¡¯s approval. ¡°Well, I¡¯m supposed to be the next empress right? If the soldiers saw footage of me being miserably trained by some common mercenary who¡¯s not even an aristocrat, they would say [Who the hell appointed this kind of fool to be our next empress!?] right.¡± ¡°¡­¡­.they probably would. I would too if I were in their position. I mean, I¡¯m thinking the same thing right now.¡± ¡°Hgh!!¡± Taking that abuse, Diaroze trembled. ¡°That¡¯s right, and the one who appointed me to that position was my mother¡­¡­the Empress. They will be seeing a Commoner! Man! Roughed up me, the supposed Empress-to-be! Kufufu, just thinking how the other princesses and the aristocrats will see me afterward is so exciting!¡± ¡°I understand the basics of it. Only the basics, that is.¡± Vuld¡¯s society usually centers around a strong authoritarian figure. Conversely, if the authority of that figure is lost, their subordinates will start to revolt. That¡¯s the goal of this strategy. ¡°Using the communication cruiser the Calencians requisitioned, we can hijack the Noredian army data link system during battle. Then we send the video to every ship and forcibly make it play on loops! It will be during the battle you know! Imagine the chaos that will break out! No one would be able to focus on the battle with that¡­..¡± ¡°I, I see¡­¡­¡± He can¡¯t help but think that this strategy aligned too much with Diaroze¡¯s fetish but it certainly will be effective. However, in return, both his and Diaroze¡¯s embarrassing figure will be on full display in front of everyone. ¡°Moreover, if I¡¯m seen like this by that many people then it will be the complete destruction of my social life! No one would ever accept me besides Master! Kufu, Kufufufufufufufu! What a wonderful strategy¡­..oops.¡± With her saliva dripping from her mouth unconsciously, Diaroze hurriedly wiped it while her face was bright red. ¡°To win this war, this strategy is absolutely necessary! Master also said [Anything for victory] right! Please go along with this!¡± ¡°I did say that! Damn it!!!¡± It¡¯s too embarrassing for him to take his own words back so soon after he said them. However, this is still too much so Kisei is now holding his head. ¡°Damn it! Damn it! If we still lose with this then I will haunt you your entire life you know!¡± ¡°Kufufufu! I¡¯ve always believed that you would agree, Master!¡± Diaroze embraces Kisei with a big smile. She also deliberately adjusted her position so that her plump breast would be in his face. After all, she¡¯s already confirmed that this is effective during their night together at the resort. ¡°Muuh¡­¡­.¡± Losing his will to scold her more, Kisei struggled out of her embrace and shook his head while cursing his own simplicity. He then clears his throat and pretends to be calm. ¡°But we can do that kind of shoot anywhere right. Where are we going in the first place?¡± ¡°To the [Odervansen], my former ship.¡± ¡°Ahh, that ship huh. It was taken out on an exercise right?¡± The Noredian gigantic battleship, [Odervansen] was requisitioned by the Calencian army. A crew was already assigned to it and it was taken out for military exercise so that they can be combat-ready as soon as possible. ¡°That¡¯s right. If we are going to do SM play then the interrogation room there is the best suited for that. Since we are going to do this, let¡¯s shoot something exciting together¡­¡­!¡± ¡°Th, That place huh¡­¡­¡± It was in this very interrogation room on the [Odervansen] that Kisei almost got assaulted by Diaroze. At the time, Valentina managed to bail him out but he never thought a day would come where he would do the same thing only in the opposite position. ¡°Ahh, by the way, our cameraman is going to be my foolish younger sister you know. She¡¯s a relative after all¡­¡­even if the video is going to be seen by everyone, I don¡¯t want strangers to watch us in person you see.¡± ¡°Is that so¡­¡­¡± Replied Kisei with an incredibly sullen look. Since he¡¯s already come this far, there¡¯s no point trying to get out of this anymore. After all, no matter who the cameraman will be, he would end up doing the same thing anyway¡­¡­. TLN: This call for some censorship for the next two chapters I think¡­¡­. CH 191 The Shoot ¡°Hi, My Love.¡± Valentina was messing with the high-performance camera in her hand with a sigh. The moment he arrived at the interrogation room, he was greeted by Valentina who had an incredibly complicated expression on her face. It was a mix of irritation, sadness, and for some reason, expectation. ¡°This must be a lot for you. My apology.¡± ¡°It¡¯s necessary right? There¡¯s no way around it¡­¡­¡± Kisei shrugs and looks around the interrogation room. Various torture devices are being illuminated under the dim light, giving off a strange sense of intimidation. He didn¡¯t really pay it that much attention when he was here before but now that he can afford to take his time to look around, it¡¯s a pretty unpleasant room. ¡°That woman aside, we won¡¯t show your face in the video. With some editing, we can put some mosaics over your face so you can rest assured, My Love.¡± ¡°It leaves me with a bad taste when I can hide my face while Diaroze has to show it though¡­¡­.¡± ¡°You don¡¯t have to associate yourself with Diaroze¡¯s social suicide, My Love. You don¡¯t have to worry about anything at all.¡± Diaroze, whose little sister no longer calls her with any honorifics, smiled slightly at her and clapped her hands. ¡°Be done with the tedious talk, let¡¯s get started. We don¡¯t have much time.¡± Since they can¡¯t be seen doing this, they¡¯ve ordered the crew to stay away from the interrogation room but that is also getting in the way of their exercise so they need to finish the shoot as soon as possible. ¡°I know. My Love, have you read the script?¡± ¡°Well, yeah. I read it on the boat but I¡¯m not confident I remember it.¡± ¡°It doesn¡¯t matter, you can ad-lib. We don¡¯t need to mind the quality because our only aim is to put the Empress and Diaroze¡¯s authority into question after all.¡± ¡°Since we are doing this, don¡¯t you want to make it the best one possible, dear sister.¡± With a grin, Diaroze let the military coat she was wearing slide off her body. Underneath, she¡¯s wearing an obscene bondage outfit. Since she¡¯s a tall well-endowed woman, it was quite a poison to Kisei¡¯s eyes. ¡°That outfit, where did you get it.¡± However, from the perspective of someone of the same sex, Valentina seemed to be taken aback by her sister¡¯s appearance. Her face was filled with disgust when she squeezed out that question. ¡°It¡¯s mine though? I have it for some time now.¡± ¡°I won¡¯t ask you anything ever again¡­¡­..¡± Valentina shakes her head sideways in despair. On the other hand, Diaroze walked to a device in the room with a joyful expression. It¡¯s a bed-type restraint that Kisei was once bound to. She lays on it and spreads her limbs before calling for him. ¡°Now now, quickly, tie me up.¡± ¡°Yeah, yeah¡­¡­..¡± As she requested, Kisei tied her up like a tuna on a cutting board strapped by belts. It actually has an automatic restraining function but Diaroze wanted Kisei to do it with his own hands so she kept silent about it. Her body was moist from sweat that probably came from both the atmosphere and her own expectations, in combination with the obscene outfit she¡¯s in. as a bonus, she also gives off a womanly scent, it is by no means unpleasant, rather, it made even Kisei excited. ¡°This is good enough?¡± ¡°Yes, like that, nice!¡± Diaroze joyfully said as she tried shaking her limbs in the restraint. Despite the Vuld¡¯s innate strength, the restraint did not budge at all. ¡°For the whip¡­¡­you can use that one on the table there.¡± Saying so, Valentina pointed at the big whip on the table. It¡¯s Diaroze¡¯s old favorite that comes with an electrifying function. Kisei silently picked it up and inspected it. ¡°OOH, You are using that! You¡¯ve got good taste, dear foolish little sister!¡± ¡°Good taste¡­¡­? Uhh¡­..I didn¡¯t know¡­¡­..¡± Since she can¡¯t tell the difference between whips, she just chose the one that seemed appropriate. That¡¯s why she was taken aback by the delighted look on her elder sister¡¯s face. ¡°Going along with this woman¡¯s delusion is hurting my head¡­¡­whatever, let¡¯s get this done quickly.¡± Said Valentina as shook her head while holding her temples. She then operates the console to have an appropriate angle for the filming and Diaroze now looks like she¡¯s being crucified on the wall. ¡°It hurts right? Are you okay?¡± Being subjected to the same thing before, Kisei asked out of consideration. Since the restraints have to support your weight, they will dig into your skin in that posture. ¡°The more painful the better right! Don¡¯t mind it!¡± ¡°Ah, is that so¡­¡­you sure love this kind of thing huh.¡± Slightly astounded, Kisei lightly pokes Diaroze¡¯s exposed navel with the tip of the whip. In response, Diaroze raised a seductive moan. ¡°Nngh, you are so good at playing with my expectations, Master.¡± ¡°Glad to hear.¡± ¡°Guh.¡± Looking at the two frolickings, Valentina gritted her teeth. She thought that the two of them have grew a lot closer recently. Naturally, she didn¡¯t even consider that they might have already gone all the way though¡­¡­. Still, she can feel their excitement from the atmosphere. ¡°Now then, the preparations are ready. Let¡¯s get started.¡± ¡°¡­¡­Okay.¡± With a complicated expression, Valentina holds up the camera. ¡°Alright, action.¡± CH 192 The Play ¡°Alright, let¡¯s start with some self-introduction.¡± After he hardened his expression, Kisei said the script in a cold voice. ¡°Diaroze Vista Argarine¡­¡­27 years old¡­¡­¡± Diaroze answered in a weak tone which is clearly different from her usual cheerful and arrogant one. She¡¯s quite a good actress. ¡°What¡¯s your current job?¡± ¡°I¡¯m the crown princess of Nored¡­¡­.¡± ¡°That¡¯s not it right?¡± A cracking sound echoed inside the interrogation room. It was the sound of the whip in Kisei¡¯s hand hitting Diaroze¡¯s thigh. A painful red mark remains on her sweat-soaked skin. Since it packed more power than he expected, Kisei gazed worriedly at Diaroze but contrary to his expectations, she seemed to be ecstatic. ¡°I, I will ask you again, Diaroze, what is your current job?¡± ¡°A, A slave, sir! Yours! I am Master¡¯s slave!¡± Shouted Diaroze in a joyful voice. It¡¯s the tone that no matter how you hear it, it¡¯s clear that it came from the bottom of her heart. ¡°What kind of slave are you?¡± ¡°A masochist slave, sir! Diaroze is a perverted masochist slave!¡± ¡°Hmm, so you are a masochist?¡± Even though he knew it was coming because it came straight from the script, Kisei still has a stomachache hearing it. It was easy when he went along with her when they were alone with each other but as expected, being seen like this still makes him feel bad. ¡°Yes, sir! I love being abused by Master! I¡¯m an irredeemable pervert, sir!¡± For the first time, Diaroze stopped referring to herself using [Wa-Re], but used [Watashi] instead. Well, if she refers to herself using [Wa-Re] as usual then it might come out as haughty so there¡¯s probably no helping it. (TLN: Ware/Warawa, are like a highborn¡¯s way of referring to self) ¡°Well said. Let me give you a reward.¡± With a tense smile, Kisei struck Diaroze¡¯s shoulder with a whip. The loud sound from the whip made him flinch but it was covered by Diaroze¡¯s scream. ¡°But you know, for you to abandon such an important position willingly to become my slave, don¡¯t you think you are a bad girl, Diaroze? Don¡¯t you feel sorry for your family and your vassals back home at all?¡± ¡°No, sir! I¡¯d rather be abused by you!¡± Kisei was conflicted if it was okay for him to say his next line so he glanced at Valentina. Valentina who¡¯s the one filming them has a terribly apologetic expression on her face but for some reason, her face was bright red. At least it doesn¡¯t seem like she wants to stop the shoot. Still somewhat unconvinced, Kisei turned back toward Diaroze. ¡°So you¡¯ve completely turned into a masochistic dog huh. Don¡¯t you feel any shame at all? We will show this video to everyone you know?¡± ¡°L, Let them see it! Rather, please let everyone witness how ugly the unsightly bitch I have become, sir!¡± ¡°Then we will have to let them see you at your lowest huh.¡± Kisei took a remote out from his pocket and operated it to release the restraints on Diaroze and she fell on the floor. Although their positions are reversed, he couldn¡¯t shake off the sense of deja vu. However, Diaroze never attempted to rush at Kisei. She simply crawls on all fours with her trembling body. Her expression looked completely excited. ¡°STAY!¡± With that shot command, Diaroze stopped still in a dog-like pose. Kisei then took off one of his shoes and dangled his barefoot in front of Diaroze. This was at her request before the shooting started. ¡°Stay. You are a smart dog so you can follow such a simple command right?¡± With his barefoot in front of her, Diaroze seemed to be at the peak of her excitement and her breathing had turned rough. Her mouth opened and her tongue tried to wiggle its way toward his toes. ¡°Stay, I said stay. I can¡¯t reward a dog who can¡¯t obey a simple order you know?¡± ¡°Uuu¡­..¡± While lowering his foot to a position where her tongue can not reach, Kisei reprimanded her. Diaroze continued to wiggle her tongue but it seems that she was properly holding herself back. Saliva dripped from her mouth and formed a sticky string from her lips down to Kisei¡¯s foot. Meanwhile, Valentina approached their side to take a close-up shot of Diaroze¡¯s pitiful appearance. ¡°Well done. Good dog.¡± While keeping his calm, Kisei strokes Diaroze¡¯s head. He then walks behind her and slapped her white butt which was more than half exposed due to the bondage outfit. ¡°OOOH!!¡± Diaroze let out a pathetic moan. Kisei then grabbed her side and pushed her to the floor. Normally, it would be impossible for him to push her down like that due to the difference in their height and weight but Diaroze allowed her body to spread on the floor, her face filled to the brim with expectations. ¡°Then, it¡¯s time for your reward.¡± With a merciless smile, Kisei started riding her body and¡ª¨C ¡°CUT.¡± He stopped his movement at Valentina¡¯s slightly quivering voice. On the other hand, Diaroze who actually was expecting a [Reward] puffed up her cheeks in frustration. ¡°We are almost there, how stingy of you, little sister.¡± ¡°That¡¯s the end of the script though!?¡± Shouted Valentina with her cheeks bright red. CH 193 With Valentina After the shoot, Kisei was resting on the upper deck of the [Odervansen]. The sea breeze feels good on his heated body. He stares off into the blue horizon illuminated by the setting sun and lets out a sigh. ¡°You look tired, My Love.¡± Valentina sits down next to Kisei with a small smile. She also seemed to be quite tired herself. It¡¯s reasonable given that she had to witness such a scene enacted by her elder sister and a man she loves. ¡°That was a disaster huh. Both you and I, who would have thought that we would be doing something like.¡± ¡°Too true¡­¡­.¡± Kisei frowns and glances at Valentina. She¡¯s 20 cm taller than him so she¡¯s obviously still bigger when they both sat down. Her cheeks looked somewhat reddened, but that¡¯s probably due to the effect of the shoot earlier. ¡°By the way, what about Diaroze? I don¡¯t see her anywhere.¡± ¡°She said that she had to pick up something and went off earlier.¡± This ship originally belonged to Diaroze so she should have a lot of her personal belongings left on board. He doesn¡¯t know what she wants to grab but Kisei decided to leave her alone. ¡°Don¡¯t you think you give her too much freedom? She might have something that can disable the slave collar stashed here you know?¡± ¡°Well, it will probably be fine.¡± Diaroze seems to be enjoying her life to the fullest lately. Unless something drastic happens, there¡¯s probably no need to worry about her betraying them, Kisei thinks. ¡°More importantly¡­¡­since you two are finally able to have a normal relationship, won¡¯t you consider calling her your sister again? She¡¯s no longer your enemy after all.¡± ¡°¡­¡­I¡¯ve already cut ties with her so I planned to go through with it. She probably would be troubled if I try to mend it after all this time too.¡± ¡°Diaroze doesn¡¯t care about that though. She does badmouth you sometimes but she never holds a grudge against you, you know.¡± After all, she even asked him to marry Valentina as well. Diaroze may look like that but she unexpectedly cherishes her little sister quite a lot. ¡°¡­¡­¡­.¡± However, Valentina silently shrugged. It seems that she no longer has any intention to discuss this any further. ¡°Still, you sure have gotten along with that woman quite a lot lately huh. Given your first experience with her, I¡¯m a little surprised you know.¡± ¡°Well, yeah. But the past aside, Diaroze is pretty easy to get along with you see. She¡¯s smart and bright, she can be a bit crazy sometimes though¡­¡­.¡± ¡°Hmm, then you don¡¯t hate Diaroze huh.¡± ¡°I like her a lot actually.¡± ¡°¡­¡­¡­.¡± Valentina had a complicated expression at his answer. It was a mix of pain and excitement, a weird expression. Kisei tilted his head at the sight but since she seems like she doesn¡¯t want him to ask, he decided to say nothing more. ¡°¡­¡­.come to think of it, what will Valentina do after the war is over?¡± Kisei asked so as though he just remembered it. He recalled Diaroze asking him to shake up Valentina to make her go berserk later. ¡°That is obvious right? If I can defeat Mother then the other princes and major aristocrats will start fighting for the empress¡¯s throne. I¡¯m going to lead the soldiers who follow me to suppress them.¡± Said Valentina with a straight face. She then reaches for the sun [Alp] as though to grab it out of the sky. ¡°Then Mother¡¯s¡­¡­the empress¡¯s crown will be mine. With that, I will create a peaceful country with no more war and senseless slaughter.¡± ¡°Is that so¡­¡­¡± It seems that her goal still hasn¡¯t changed. Certainly, the current Nored is not a good country. They are waging wars of aggression in various countries and have no qualm in slaughtering civilians. Valentina¡¯s desire to stop that is something he¡¯s ought to support. ¡°But, I¡¯m sorry, I can¡¯t go down that path with you.¡± ¡°¡­¡­..why?¡± Because he has already decided to marry Schleer and Diaroze as well as the others. He can¡¯t just throw away his family and go to war after he finally makes a decision to settle down. It was Kisei¡¯s honest feeling that he should prioritize his loved one before some grandiose ideal, no matter how great it is. ¡°I think that what Valentina wants to do is great. But that¡¯s too big a dream for me. It¡¯s not something that a single mercenary can do anything about, and it¡¯s not the kind of thing you personally want for me right?¡± ¡°Th, that¡¯s right. I want you to be my life partner¡­¡­no, not that. I just don¡¯t want to burden you with that kind of responsibility, My Love¡­¡­.¡± ¡°If I become a husband to the empress, that kind of excuse won¡¯t work, right? Besides, I don¡¯t want to get myself involved in politics.¡± Valentina turned silent at Kisei¡¯s firm denial. Kisei also looks away without saying anything more. There¡¯s no situation more awkward than this. ¡°Thanks for the wait! Man, it¡¯s been too long so I almost forgot how to open my safe.¡± Suddenly, a joyful voice came from behind the two of them. Before they knew it, Diaroze has already snuck up behind the two and tapped their shoulders. ¡°What¡¯s with the long face you two. Are you hungry or something?¡± ¡°¡­¡­.!¡± Valentina clenched her teeth before jerking her body away from Diaroze¡¯s hand. She then silently stood up and left. Diaroze gazed at her back with a joyful expression. ¡°You¡¯ve shaken her up real good huh. It seems our preparation is perfect.¡± ¡°¡­.were you listening?¡± ¡°Well, yeah.¡± Kisei shrugged at Diaroze¡¯s blunt reply. What a terrible personality she has. CH 194 Back to the Ship In the end, Kisei and Diaroze went back to the [Radiant] without meeting Valentina again. Right now, the two are walking down a corridor illuminated by white lights. ¡°That blow with the whip was strong right, are you okay?¡± Kisei asked Diaroze who was walking behind him with a worried expression. That was the first time he whipped someone. Of course, he was holding back but it still ended up leaving some marks on her body. He has experienced being whipped by Diaroze before but at that time, there weren¡¯t any marks at all. Thinking about that now, he¡¯s feeling apologetic toward her. ¡°What are you saying, that was just right. No, rather, that was still lacking you know.¡± ¡°Ehh¡­¡­.¡± When she answered him with such a refreshed expression, it¡¯s probably too much to ask Kisei not to be troubled. He still can¡¯t quite wrap his head around this masochistic fetish. ¡°Next time, you don¡¯t have to hold back okay? Nn/¡± Diaroze was having a glamorous smile while glancing at Kisei¡¯s hand. In his hand was Diaroze¡¯s favorite electromagnetic whip which she pushed onto him. ¡°You are so beautiful so I don¡¯t really want to leave marks on your body though¡­¡­¡± ¡°¡­¡­.¡± Taken by surprise by that, Diaroze turned her face away. She manages to fix up her expression but it seems that her mouth has become slackened. ¡°I, it can¡¯t be helped then. Let¡¯s look for a whip that won¡¯t leave marks later.¡± ¡°So you still insist on being whipped huh¡­¡­¡± With a sigh, Kisei looked around. They are discussing such an embarrassing topic so he doesn¡¯t want anyone to overhear it. Fortunately, he doesn¡¯t see anyone in the audible range around them. ¡°Also, since we¡¯re already on the topic. We¡¯ve tried it in the shoot earlier but can you let me lick your feet in earnest next time?¡± ¡°It¡¯s dirty so don¡¯t do it. What would you do if you have a stomach ache later.¡± ¡°But, on the record, I want to lick Master¡¯s whole bod¡ª-¡± Diaroze was saying that with a grin but she immediately stopped when she spotted a figure in the distance. ¡°That¡¯s, Tersis?¡± A tall woman wearing a Noredian military uniform onboard a Calencian ship would be easy to spot, and the only one who matches such a description would be Tersis. She seemed to notice them as well but as soon as she saw Kisei¡¯s face, her face immediately turned bright red. She then reflexively covered her lips with her fingers and immediately ran in the opposite direction. Her messy footsteps that are far from her usual elegant ones steadily move away from their position. ¡°What was that all about.¡± Diaroze squints her eyes at Tersis¡¯s attitude and glances at Kisei. ¡°Don¡¯t tell me, you two kissed? On the lips I mean.¡± ¡°Y, yeah, well¡­¡­¡± It¡¯s quite stressful when you are asked if you have kissed another woman. Kisei answered with cold sweat starting to come out of his body but Diaroze simply smiled joyfully without getting angry. ¡°To think that stiff would look like that now. Kufu, that was an interesting sight.¡± Saying so, she gently patted Kisei¡¯s head. ¡°If you have free time then you can try to train her. I¡¯m sure that it will yield some interesting results, you know.¡± ¡°Tr, train¡­¡­¡± ¡°When the time comes, I¡¯d like to help too. Sometimes, being on the abuser side can feel good too after all.¡± Kisei¡¯s feelings turned a little complicated at how she doesn¡¯t seem to get jealous at all but at that moment, a figure appeared from around the corner. It¡¯s not Tersis as the figure is too short to be her. ¡°¡­..Ahh, you¡¯ve returned.¡± It was Schleer who had a ghastly expression on her face. From the sound of her voice, it seems that she¡¯s very tired. This is probably due to the amount of her work. ¡°Y, Yeah, well¡­¡­.are you okay?¡± ¡°I¡¯m fine, I have the rest of the day off¡­¡­..¡± Schleer fluttered her way to their location with a weak smile. ¡°It¡¯s already evening though¡­¡­.¡± ¡°¡­¡­w, well, it¡¯s better than not getting any rest at all. Anyway, I think I will be getting some shuteye until dinner.¡± ¡°Hou.¡± With a small nod, Diaroze looks alternately between Kisei and Schleer¡¯s faces. She then whispers something into Kisei¡¯s ear. ¡°Master, why don¡¯t you give her a lap pillow? When your wife¡¯s tired, it¡¯s the husband¡¯s job to ease their fatigue you know.¡± ¡°Eh? Sure¡­¡­¡± Can he really ease her tiredness by doing that though? Still, Schleer¡¯s complexion is unusual. She certainly needs to relieve her stress. Since she might not want that, Kisei tried asking her. ¡°If, if it¡¯s alright with you¡­¡­do you want to sleep together?¡± ¡°Eh, I can!?¡± Contrary to his expectations, his offer was very effective. Schleer¡¯s expression brightened and she skipped over to him. ¡°Y, Yeah.¡± ¡°Thank you very much¡­..! It¡¯s been rough these days¡­¡­there¡¯s a lot of work so I can¡¯t even go see you at all¡­¡­..¡± After returning from their vacation, Schleer had been rooted to the command center which had become her office. It¡¯s normal to be so stressed when you are buried under that much work. ¡°Well, I don¡¯t want to get in the way so I will be off. I need to clean myself up too¡­¡­.¡± Diaroze let out a small smile at the situation and walked away while waving them goodbye. CH 195 Hugging Pillow After that, Kisei was brought to Schleer¡¯s room. Although the room belongs to a princess, its size and interior are not that much different from Kisei¡¯s. In that room, Kisei was lying on the large bed in the corner of the room. ¡°¡­¡­¡­¡­¡± Schleer was also lying down on the bed and hugged him from behind. Her heavy breaths touch his nape. It¡¯s embarrassing but if this can elevate Schleer¡¯s tiredness, he¡¯s willing to bear it. ¡°Fuu¡­.recharging complete.¡± After a brief silence, Schleer finally moved her nose away from his nape and let out a satisfying breath. Just like that, she proceeded to tighten her arms around his body, now he¡¯s literally a hugging pillow. ¡°¡­¡­¡­.can we, stay like this?¡± ¡°No way, you should properly rest you know.¡± ¡°Muuh¡­¡­¡± Although she puffed up her cheeks, her expression brightened. Naturally, she knows that she can¡¯t do much right now. She probably only jokingly asked him to spoil her. ¡°When the war is over, let¡¯s do this a lot.¡± ¡°¡­¡­yeah.¡± ¡°Nnfufu.¡± While cutely purring like a cat, Schleer rubs her cheek against Kisei¡¯s. Perhaps because she was tired, right now she seemed to act a little younger than her usual self. For a while, the silent but cozy time continued for the two. Only the sound of their breathing reverberated in the room. In that moment of silence, Schleer opened her mouth. ¡°¡­..I¡¯m sorry about today. I never wanted you to do something like that.¡± It¡¯s probably about the video. Feeling a long sigh on his nape, Kisei groaned a little ¡°¡­..it can¡¯t be helped. It was to increase our chance of winning right. There¡¯s no reason not to do it.¡± ¡°That¡¯s true but¡­¡­¡± With her mouth curled, Schleer continued to hug Kisei. ¡°¡­¡­Rather, I feel bad for you, you know. Doing something like that with Diaroze today and laying a honey trap for another woman tomorrow, don¡¯t you think that it¡¯s unfair for you, Schleer?¡± ¡°¡­¡­Yes?¡± When Kisei said that with a worried voice, Schleer tilted her head. Kisei personally felt bad for having such a close relationship with so many women but¡­¡­..Schleer seems to not understand his dismay. After thinking to herself for a while, she went [Ahhh], as though she just understood. ¡°Kisei, that¡¯s Terran¡¯s way of thinking you know. We, Vulds really don¡¯t have that kind of value.¡± ¡°¡­¡­.what do you mean?¡± Schleer shook her head sideways and looked back at him with a smile. ¡°We may look almost the same and can have children with each other but¡­¡­¡­we still belong to 2 different races. It¡¯s obvious that our way of life would be different too right.¡± Schleer continues while stroking Kisei¡¯s ear, the most different part in Terran and Vuld¡¯s bodies. ¡°I know that it¡¯s rude but men are prey in a Vuld society. We caught and shared them among ourselves. That¡¯s how our ancestors lived their lives for thousands of years. ¡°¡­¡­.¡± ¡° Lt.Makishima, Diaroze, and the others who signed the form¡­¡­they are my family. And I¡¯m fine with Valentina and Eleanor-san joining us in the future as well.¡± Schleer gently said while stroking his hair. ¡°As long as we share the same man, we are a family, a flock. As our husband, you have the duty to love us all. There¡¯s no need for you to feel guilty about anything, Kisei.¡± ¡°Somehow, it feels weird you know.¡± ¡°Culture shocks like this are normal in a cross-species marriage, I think. I¡­..no, we can overcome this together, surely.¡± ¡°¡­¡­right.¡± If she¡¯s going that far then he has no reason not to be convinced. Thought Kise with a bitter smile. ¡°¡­¡­.And it¡¯s a fact you know? As long as I¡¯m the first wife, I¡¯m the leader of this flock. Not you. That¡¯s why if I say it¡¯s okay then it¡¯s okay. Kisei doesn¡¯t have to feel responsible at all.¡± ¡°A, Ahh, I see. Vulds are like that after all huh, I guess that makes sense.¡± Vuld¡¯s society is harem-based but the family head is not a man but a woman instead. Such a thing is hard to imagine as a Terran. In a sense, their society is close to that of the bees. ¡°After pushing you into this marriage, saying this now felt kind of unfair though¡­¡­.¡± When Schleer began to apologize, Kisei silently kissed her on the forehead. ¡°I signed that marriage form because I wanted to.¡± ¡°¡­¡­right.¡± Schleer happily smiles and kisses Kisei back. She then tightly hugged his body while being careful not to hurt him. ¡°Even if you ask me to let you go, I will never let go, you know? Be prepared.¡± ¡°How scary.¡± She jokingly said that but her tone indicates that she¡¯s serious. On the other hand, Kisei shrugged. ¡°When I first met you, I never expected it to turn out like this you know.¡± ¡°I was aiming for you since the beginning though? Once a Vuld sets their eyes on their prey, they never let them go, you know. We are carnivorous after all.¡± ¡°Seriously, that one is scary.¡± The two started to giggled happily at each other. CH 196 Sister The next morning. Kisei and the others were traveling in an old large sedan. They are heading to the hotel where Eleanor, one of the 4 Heavenly, is placed under house arrest. ¡°Man, it¡¯s been so long.¡± A woman with short hair who¡¯s sitting next to Kisei said with a cheerful smile. She¡¯s Frea, Schleer¡¯s twin sister. In terms of appearance, they looked surprisingly similar to each other. ¡°I actually wanted to go see you more frequently but I have a lot of work you see?¡± ¡°You¡¯ve been visiting neighboring countries to negotiate for their support right? The frontline can¡¯t function properly without the supplies you procured so I¡¯m grateful for your work you know.¡± ¡°Hehehe, you are making your sister(in-law) blush you know? Man, it was worth all the effort.¡± With a smile, Frea started snuggling up on Kisei. She was like this last time they met as well but this time the distance between them has shrunk. ¡°Hey, it¡¯s bad manners to touch someone else¡¯s man [DESUYO]? I¡¯d like you to stop [DESU].¡± Nora who was sitting opposite on Kisei¡¯s other side said so with a threatening voice and peels her off Kisei. ¡°Someone else man huh? Fufu.¡± Frea didn¡¯t resist but she gazed coldly at Nora in response. Her attitude seems to be hiding some meaning and Nora recoils a bit. ¡°D, Don¡¯t tell me, you too¡ª¨C¡± ¡°Will you stop with this pointless quarreling?¡± When Nora was about to say something, Diaroze said so from the passenger seat. ¡°Even without weapons involved, the place we are heading to is a battlefield. Do you think you can win a fight when you are fighting among yourselves? Right, sister(in-law)¡­..¡± Diaroze said that as though she knows everything and wants Frea to compromise for now. ¡°It doesn¡¯t feel right when you treat me like I¡¯m older but well, you¡¯re right.¡± Frea shrugs with a smirk. Her gestures matched her bright and cool appearance. Even Schleer would look intelligent like this if she would just stay silent, rudely thought Kisei. Her true self would show if she opens her mouth though. ¡°Come to think of it, can I confirm something first? When we arrive at the hotel, we are supposed to have these two meet Ms.Eleanor first right?¡± Frea asks while glancing at Kisei and Nora as Schleer has already told her about their plan to seduce Eleanor. ¡°Well, she will be alarmed if we all go in at once you see. First, we have to make her feel relaxed. Our turn will be in the afternoon¡­¡­.the meeting with the Head Retainer from House Fafleta.¡± Currently, the Head Retainer of the Fafleta family, Eleanor¡¯s house, is visiting Calencia to negotiate her return. It is highly likely that the Head Retainer will not be convinced to join their side even if Eleanor herself wants to since she¡¯s not the family head. That¡¯s why they need to separate the negotiation. ¡°I¡¯ve already asked Head Retainer-san to come to the hotel so if their talk with Eleanor-san goes well, we can have her show up at the meeting right?¡± ¡°That¡¯s my plan from the start. If they fail with Eleanor then we will have to do our best with the Head Retainer after all. If we can get Eleanor on our side then it will be more convenient for us.¡± ¡°Ohh, how scary.¡± Frea bitterly smiled at Diaroze who stated her plan lie it¡¯s a matter of course. ¡°I¡¯ve been thinking this since you were our enemy but you are real smart aren¡¯t you? It¡¯s good that you are our ally now.¡± Diaroze let out a sigh, as it was hard for her to judge whether that was Frea being sarcastic or if her praise was genuine. Perhaps Frea doesn¡¯t fully trust Diaroze yet. Well, that¡¯s a given considering her past. ¡°Right now I¡¯m nothing more than a slave. As long as Master sides with you, my power is Calencia¡¯s.¡± ¡°I see? So it¡¯s Kisei-kun that I should be scared of instead right?¡± Said Frea as she poked Kisei¡¯s cheek with her finger. Nora glared at her but Frea completely ignored her. ¡°Well, to be honest, it¡¯s not like I am completely on board with this strategy but¡­¡­.it is what it is. There¡¯s no way around it I guess? I¡¯m counting on you, Kisei-kun.¡± ¡°F, For what?¡± ¡°Come one. You understand right? I¡¯m talking about seducing Eleanor-san, of course.¡± The last part was whispered into his ear. The tickling sensation felt strangely pleasant and his back started shaking a little. ¡°I¡¯m, I¡¯m not that confident though.¡± ¡°Is that a joke?¡± Frea plainly retorted. Both Diaroze and Nora were literally seduced by him to join Calencia. Moreover, they are not his only victims either. His seduction power is so great that even if they made all their spies work together, it wouldn¡¯t be as effective as him at this. ¡°Well, it will be fine. You have Onee-san¡¯s stamp of approval.¡± Said Frea with a bitter smile as she looks at Nora who was resting her head on Kisei¡¯s shoulder. CH 197 The Enticement 1 It was about 30 minutes later that the group arrived at the hotel. Since it is one of the most luxurious hotels in Calencia, its interior is even more luxurious than a bedroom reserved for aristocrats on board the [Radiant]. ¡°Ara Ara, I was wondering who¡¯s paying me a visit¡­¡­.it¡¯s you Nora-chan.¡± In the Royal Suite at the top floor of the hotel was a girl with blonde hair and a unique ringlet hairstyle, Eleanor Al Fafleta. Her complexion seems to be good, suggesting that even though she was placed under house arrest, her living condition is quite decent. ¡°Hello, been a while [DESU].¡± Nora raised her hand and greeted her back with a familiar tone before sitting down without asking for the room¡¯s owner¡¯s permission. She also pulled Kisei¡¯s sleeve and made him sit with her. ¡°Nora-chan, who¡¯s that with you?¡± Asked Eleanor after she sighed at Nora¡¯s usual self-paced attitude. She has never met Kisei face to face before so it¡¯s obvious that she would be confused when he suddenly showed up at her door. ¡°About that, I¡¯m actually here to notify Eleanor-SAN of something [DESU].¡± ¡°Oh my, what is it?¡± After seating across the two who seemed to be slightly nervous, Eleanor continued. ¡°We are getting married [DESU].¡± ¡°¡­¡­¡­ha?¡± Nora grinned and announced so while hugging Kisei and Eleanor was dumbfounded ¡°Let me introduce you. This person is Hokuto Kisei-SAN. He¡¯s the feared mercenary called the [Wicked Star] and we have just got engaged [DESU].¡± ¡°Ha, HAAAAAAA!?¡± Speaking of the [Wicked Star], that¡¯s the name of the mercenary who has brought the Noredian to its knees. The memory of the battle where Eleanor along with all the 4 Heavenly facing him is still fresh in her mind. ¡°D, Don¡¯t tell me, you betrayed Nored from the beginning¡­¡­.?¡± How and why is she engaged to the enemy ace? It would be more plausible to think that Nora was with Calencia from the beginning rather than saying they met during the war. Eleanor has, until now, thought that Nora¡¯s betrayal was due to her dissatisfaction with Diaroze. Since they didn¡¯t pledge their allegiance to Diaroze, she could understand her feelings despite how Nora chose to become her enemy. That¡¯s why she was friendly when Nora showed up at her door, but¡­¡­ ¡°That¡¯s not it [DESU]. We were originally enemies. But that¡¯s exactly why our flame of love is burning right row [DESU]! Right, Kisei-SAN.¡± ¡°Ah, yes. That¡¯s right.¡± What¡¯s this about flame of love though? Kisei was wondering about that but since they are in the middle of a script prepared by Diaroze, he decided to just go along. ¡°Ah, is that the case¡­¡­my apology.¡± Nora¡¯s words sound very much like a clumsy excuse but Eleanor cleared her throat and continued as though she was convinced by that. As Nora and the others said, she might be a little gullible. ¡°However, if that¡¯s truly the case then it¡¯s pretty much a romantic story, isn¡¯t it. It¡¯s almost like it came straight out of a play or a movie.¡± ¡°Right? Fufu.¡± Nora crossed her arms and said that with a smug look on her face but she quickly undid that and turned to Eleanor. ¡°But there¡¯s one thing I¡¯m troubled with [DESU]. Since I think of Eleanor-san like an elder sister, I want to consult you [DESU]!¡± ¡°¡­¡­.Hou!¡± Eleanor smiled at the elder sister part and urged Nora to continue with a happy look. ¡°Actually, there¡¯s a condition for us to get engaged [DESU]. After all, I¡¯m used to be with Nored and I¡¯m just a knight with a commoner background¡­¡­¡­¡± ¡°A condition¡­¡­.Calencia sure is nasty huh. What kind of condition is it?¡± ¡°I have to share Kisei-SAN with the bigshots of this country [DESU]. Well, it¡¯s polygamy you see. But as I said, my position right now is too weak¡­¡­if I don¡¯t do anything then it will be a marriage in name only and that woman will take Kisei-SAN away from me [DESU]!¡± ¡°H, How terrible¡­¡­interfering with such a loving couple is unforgivable!¡± Just as Diaroze planned, Eleanor was riled up. While listening to the two¡¯s conversation with a stiff expression, Kisei felt horrified at his slave¡¯s scheming ability. ¡°I understand now. If there¡¯s anything I can do then please tell me. I will help pave your path for love, Nora-chan.¡± ¡°As expected of Eleanor-SAN! I always believed that you would say that [DESU]!¡± With a grin, Nora slammed the table in front of her with her hand. She has quite an acting skill. ¡°I was hoping that Eleanor-SAN could become my real sister you see! If Eleanor-SAN participates in this marriage as well then that woman won¡¯t be able to do whatever she wants after all!¡± ¡°Eh, participate!? Me!? Marrying this man!?¡± Surprised, Eleanor looks at Kisei. For the first time, she closely examined Kisei¡¯s face and for a brief moment, she showed the presence of a predator. ¡°¡­¡­.Heh, Hee? Can you tell me more about this?¡± Her expression doesn¡¯t seem that reluctant at all. CH 198 The Enticement 2 ¡°Uh, Uhmm, well¡­¡­.¡± Eleanor¡¯s interest was greatly piqued by the talk of marriage. On the other hand, Kisei stares straight into her eyes and lowers his head while breaking out in a cold sweat. ¡°Once again. I¡¯m Hokuto Kisei, a mercenary. Please treat me well.¡± ¡°Ahh, how rude of me. I haven¡¯t even introduced myself yet.¡± The marriage talk Nora brought up was so shocking that she couldn¡¯t afford to do that so Eleanor shyly averted her eyes away from him for a moment. ¡°I am Eleanor Al Fafleta. Fifth daughter of Countess Fafleta and one of the 4 Heavenly, the [Heavenly Thunder]. It is nice to meet you.¡± Although they¡¯ve met each other several times on the battlefield, this is the first time they¡¯ve seen each other face to face. The two are both nervous. On top of that, Eleanor had already perceived this meeting as a kind of matchmaking. ¡°Still, I would never have thought that the [Wicked Star] is such a pretty person. I heard that you are a man but, to be honest, I¡¯m quite surprised.¡± ¡°Hahaha¡­¡­¡± Kisei laughs it off. He¡¯s often told such a thing but as usual, it doesn¡¯t make Kisei happy at all. ¡°However, is this truly all right with you, Kisei-san? Marrying me I mean. We had been exchanging fire on the battlefield just a short while ago you know?¡± ¡°That¡¯s¡­..well, Nora is the same and besides, I often heard about you from Nora as well. She told me that you are reliable and a noble person so it would be my honor to marry you instead¡­¡­.¡± Naturally, that was completely a lie. Until she brought the matter up, the matter regarding Eleanor seemed to have been completely absent from Nora¡¯s head as she was spending her time playing around. It was Diaroze¡¯s advice that made him put it like that. ¡°Hee, Hmmm, HMMMMMM?¡± And it seems that Diaroze¡¯s plan was super effective. Eleanor¡¯s now happily glancing at Nora who shyly averts her eyes away in response. As expected, she does have a talent for acting. ¡°However, I am an aristocrat. Marriage is not a decision I can make lightly. Would you mind showing me your hand?¡± ¡°My hand?¡± He doesn¡¯t know what she plans to do but Kisei obediently extends his right hand to Eleanor. Seeing his white and slender hand, she let out a small sigh and wrapped her hands around his. She then squeezed his fingers a little and rubbed the back of his hand. It was tickling and his cheeks tingled a little. ¡°¡­¡­¡± Kisei looked toward Nora as if to ask her what Eleanor was doing but Nora simply shook her head sideways. It doesn¡¯t seem like she knows either. ¡°Hee, Houu.¡± Ignoring them, Eleanor laid her palm on his and compared their sizes. They are almost the same size but Eleanor¡¯s was slightly bigger. Kisei received a mild shock from that but Eleanor holds his hand with an expression that was filled with satisfaction. Now their fingers are locked together in a so-called lovers¡¯ hand-holding. ¡°May I?¡± Without even time for him to ask what she was talking about, Eleanor got up from her seat, walked close to him, and urged him to stand up. ¡°Excuse me.¡± Saying so, Eleanor tightly hugged him. Her plump chest was pressed against his. Surprisingly, from what he felt, hers was bigger than Diaroze¡¯s. They are quite big. Kisei¡¯s heart rate immediately soared but Eleanor ignored that and continued to hug him. ¡°¡­¡­.¡± She continued to embrace him for a while but when she noticed Nora¡¯s gaze, Eleanor cleared her throat and let go. Before he knew it, Eleanor¡¯s face had reddened and her breath had become rough. It seems that she¡¯s a little aroused. ¡°Good, Good, You passed. I accepted.¡± ¡°Ehh¡­¡­..¡± Kisei was confused. Speaking of matchmaking, isn¡¯t that the thing where 2 people try talking to each other normally first before coming to a decision? ¡°Uhhh, you are not going to ask me about stuff like my family, my financial situation, or my personality first?¡± ¡°I hold no interest in your family or financial situation. After all, I already have a prestigious family and plenty of money. Besides, I wouldn¡¯t want my man to provide for me. Also, since Nora-chan took a liking to you, your personality should be decent as well.¡± Said Eleanor with a boastful expression. ¡°Then, what was that?¡± ¡°I was checking the comfort of your hands and body. If we are in a relationship then we would be holding hands and hugging each other every day, no? If I don¡¯t find you to my liking then I can¡¯t possibly want to spend my entire life with you after all.¡± ¡°Is, is that so¡­¡­..¡± It seems that Eleanor is big on skinship. However, Kisei was taken aback by how quickly Vulds can decide on their marriage. For Terrans, it would be considered way too fast if you marry your partner after dating for a month. Seeing Kisei¡¯s confused expression, Nora whispers into his ear. ¡°It¡¯s Vuld¡¯s way to jump in immediately once we find our favorite prey [DESU]. If we hesitate and let the chance escape then we could stay unmarried for the rest of our lives you know.¡± ¡°You people really do live in a moment huh¡­¡­.¡± Just like what Schleer told him yesterday, their way is just confusing for him since it¡¯s completely different from his Terran culture. After smiling wryly at him, Nora turns to Eleanor. ¡°Now we are sisters [DESUNE]!¡± ¡°Yes, Nora-chan. Fufu, I would never have thought that we would end up in this kind of relationship.¡± Seeing Eleanor happily replying like that, Nora¡¯s smile deepened. ¡°That means Eleanor-oneechan is now our ally [DESUNE]! We are about to enter into a decisive battle with Nored but¡­¡­..I wouldn¡¯t want to point my gun at my dear elder sister.¡± ¡°Nn?¡­¡­Ah!¡± In Vuld¡¯s culture, what should be valued is not your loyalty toward your nation but the bond in your family, whether that be by blood or by law. As long as she shares a husband with Nora, Eleanor has no choice but to join Calencia¡¯s side. For the first time, Eleanor¡¯s expression crumbled. ¡°Also, it seems that the Head Retainer of House Falfeta will be coming here in the afternoon. Please do your best to persuade him for us!¡± ¡°Eh, EHHHH!?¡± Eleanor instinctively reached for Nora but she dodged that and snuck something inside Kisei¡¯s jacket before continuing. ¡°Then, if you will excuse me. I¡¯m leaving Kisei-SAN here so do feel free to deepen your relationship with him [DESU]!¡± With that said, Nora quickly left the room. Eleanor and Kisei, who were left behind, looked at each other. They were drenched in a cold sweat. This was not a part of the script. ¡°¡­..Eh!? Seriously.¡± Eleanor was also shocked so she looked alternately between the direction Nora left and Kisei. After taking a deep deep breath, her eyes glanced toward the bed. ¡°W, Well, there¡¯s nothing we can do so like Nora-chan said, let¡¯s deepen our relationship¡­¡­.at the bed.¡± ¡°Wo, Wouldn¡¯t do that right after we¡¯ve met is a little¡­¡­..¡± ¡°It, It will be fine! I will be gentle!¡± ¡°No, that¡¯s just strange right.¡± Seeing Eleanor¡¯s breathing turn wild, Kisei stiffened up. While thinking about how he ended up in a room alone with a woman, Kisei realized that what Nora stuck into his pocket was a piece of paper. What was written there was simple. [[Scream out loud if she tries to assault you. I¡¯m going to rescue you immediately.]] ¡­¡­.apparently, she¡¯s planted some kind of bugging device in the room. It seems that she still wants to go with the blackmail plan in case Eleanor tries to do something to him. He thought that they¡¯d given up on that plan but it seems that it is still alive and well. Kisei let out a small sigh at the dirty scheme. TLN: Still recovering from food poisoning¡­¡­.so tired¡­¡­ CH 199 Parley Fortunately, Kisei didn¡¯t have to call for Nora. However, he was mentally exhausted due to the skinship which he find hard to determine if it was sexual harassment such as hand-holding¡­.. ¡°¡­¡­.¡± That¡¯s why Kisei who¡¯s attending the meeting with the Fafletas¡¯ Head Retainer has a terribly sour expression. He¡¯s now waiting in a large room waiting for all the attendees to arrive in the afternoon while letting out a sigh. ¡°Man, what a shame [DESUNE]. It would have been easier if she laid her hand on you.¡± Next to him, Nora whispered with a dissatisfied expression. Kisei shrugged without answering her and turned his gaze forward. In front of him was Eleanor who had an awkward expression on her face. Her gaze was fixed on Diaroze who was sitting on the seat in the corner. ¡°Uh, Umm, why is Diaroze-sama here?¡± It would probably be unreasonable to tell her not to mind Diaroze¡¯s presence. After all, the former top of her army is participating in the negotiation on Calencia¡¯s side. ¡°Well, I will explain later. Don¡¯t mind me.¡± Replied Diaroze with her arms folded under her abundant chest. ¡°More importantly, it seems that your Head Retainer has arrived you know.¡± From the direction Diaroze glanced at, an old woman in formal attire entered the room. Beside her was an intelligence officer from the Calencian Army who served as her guide. ¡°FERMI!¡± Eleanor stood up with a big smile. Hearing that joyful voice, the old woman stopped her feet. ¡°Ahh, Ojou-sama! I¡¯m glad that you are safe.¡± ¡°Come on! How many times have I told you to stop calling me that!¡± While complaining, Eleanor rushed to the old woman and gently hugged her. The old woman accepted her hug and tears could be seen on the edge of her eyes. ¡°Are you injured? Have you been eating properly¡­¡­¡± ¡°Auntie, stop it¡­..it¡¯s embarrassing!¡± After patting the bitterly smiling Eleanor on the shoulder, the old woman hurriedly raised her head. At the end of her gaze was Frea who was faintly smiling at them. ¡°Ahh, excuse my rudeness. I am Fermi Regale, Head Retainer to House Fafleta.¡± ¡°Fifth Princess of Calencia, Frea Henrietta. Thank you for meeting with us today.¡± Frea smiled and shook hands with the Head Retainer, Fermi. When she speaks in a serious tone this way, Kisei really finds it difficult to distinguish her from Schleer. ¡°Now now, please take a seat.¡± With a gentle tone, Frea urged the two from the Nored side to take a seat. After that, a Calencian Bureaucrat in a suit came in and handed Frea some documents. After a glance at them, Frea turned her gaze back to Eleanor and Fermi. After exchanging some formal greetings, they immediately get to the main subject. ¡°Now, let us negotiate the release of Eleanor-san.¡± ¡°Certainly.¡± The Head Retainer came all the way to this remote country to hasten the release process for Eleanor who was taken prisoner so she has no objection. ¡°The Head has asked me to relay that you can increase the ransom price higher. Of course, this will be in exchange for your cooperation to hasten the release process¡­..¡± ¡°Regarding that.¡± Frea glanced at Eleanor. Seeing Eleanor reluctantly nod, she now knows how to proceed. Since she did not decline the marriage talk with Kisei, Frea can treat her as an accomplice. ¡°There will be no change to the ransom.¡± ¡°¡­¡­Hou.¡± Wrinkles formed between the Head Retainer¡¯s eyebrows. Of course, she was not glad that she didn¡¯t have to spend extra money on the release. After all, she herself is an experienced aristocrat. That¡¯s why she¡¯s already expecting Calencia to ask House Fafleta to do something that Calencia can not buy with money. ¡°Instead, we would like to ask for your support.¡± ¡°¡­¡­do you mean to have us supply you with information and other war supplies?¡± ¡°No, we would like to go a step beyond that. We would like House Fafleta to join our side.¡± Out of the question. The Head Retainer¡¯s expression did not change but Frea could pick that up from her. However, she wouldn¡¯t have tried that if it was a losing battle. ¡°Fermi, I¡¯ve seen the atrocity the Noredian Army committed here.¡± Their plan works out. After glancing at Kisei, Eleanor started speaking to the Head Retainer. Her tone was exaggerated like an actress¡¯s. At first, she refused to switch sides because of her sense of loyalty but with everything said and done, she was upset. In the first place, Eleanor is a stupid but noble woman. When Kisei started talking about what the Noredian Army had done in his time alone with her, she grew angry at them and changed her stance. ¡°Such things like pointing weapons at innocent civilians are not something we aristocrats should condone. To be frank, I have no love left for that empress.¡± ¡°My¡­..¡± The Head Retainer glared at Frea. However, the one who hatched this plan was not her. With a prompt from Frea, Diaroze grinned and started speaking. ¡°By the way, Fermi-dono. I know it¡¯s sudden but don¡¯t you recognize my face?¡± Diaroze leans forward making the Head Retainer¡¯s expression go [who the hell is she?] Then, her face stiffened. If she¡¯s a Noredian aristocrat then there¡¯s no way that she wouldn¡¯t recognize such a familiar face. After all, she¡¯s supposed to be their next empress. ¡°Y, You are, Your Highness Diaroze¡­¡­! Wh¡­¡­!¡± CH 200 The Scammer Naturally, the Head Retainer is also aware that Diaroze is currently a POW in Calencia. But why is she here in negotiation for Eleanor¡¯s return? Confused at this incomprehensible development, a bead of cold sweat trails down the Head Retainer¡¯s wrinkled face. ¡°You want to know why I¡¯m here? Kuku, that¡¯s simple.¡± Diaroze elegantly laughed before sticking her index finger up and shaking it from side to side. ¡°I am an involved party¡­¡­.in other words, I had a hand in turning this entire operation against Nored from the beginning.¡± ¡°Wha¡­¡­!¡± Hearing that from someone who was once a part of the highest-ranking class in the Noredian Army, the Head Retainer was shocked. If what she¡¯s saying is true then it means that Diaroze has already betrayed Nored. ¡°Kukuku¡­..surprised? But think about it. Don¡¯t you think that this whole thing is strange from the beginning? The mighty fleet of Nored defeated by some bumpkin country¡­¡­no matter how you think about it, that¡¯s just impossible right?¡± With her homeland suddenly insulted right in front of her, Frea frowned but she didn¡¯t voice any complaints. She understands that this must also be a part of Diaroze¡¯s plan. ¡°On top of that, we had the 4 Heavenly you know. Nored Empire¡¯s strongests all shot down in one operation. Don¡¯t you think that it¡¯s unusual at all?¡± ¡°D, Don¡¯t tell me¡­¡­¡± ¡°Everything went according to design from the start. Mine that is¡­¡­.!¡± [You were making it up as you went through the whole thing weren¡¯t you!?] Kisei retorted in his head but he didn¡¯t let anything slip from his mouth. Diaroze continues with a relaxed expression. ¡°I have been working secretly with the Calencians to minimize the damage to my fleet before neutralizing it. As a result, more than half of the Calencian Expedatory Fleet is now siding with the Calencian Army to combat Nored. Do you think anyone but me can achieve such a convenient result?¡± ¡°C, Certainly¡­¡­¡± That was complete bulls but it seems that the Head Retainer bought it. After all, Diaroze¡¯s fame as a general was known throughout the Nored Empire. Rather than believing that she was defeated by some wildcard, the explanation that it was all according to her plan from the start was much more plausible. ¡°H, However, why? I couldn¡¯t fathom why Your Highness Diaroze would rebel against Nored¡­¡­..¡± In her former position, the entirety of Nored¡¯s national power would sooner or later be hers. There¡¯s no reason for Diaroze to risk it all in rebellion. Seeing the Head Retainer¡¯s confusion, Diaroze shook her head sideways. ¡°The Purge Bombing performed on civilian planets, it¡¯s something that even the citizens of Nored would frown upon¡­¡­.that operation was supposed to be my own idea but actually it is not. It was something the Empress forced me to do.¡± Diaroze¡¯s voice sounded extremely sad yet resentful. What she said is true and her emotions may have truly come from her heart. ¡°Making others do dirty work for her while she¡¯s sitting back and reaping all the results. Even as her daughter¡­¡­no, it¡¯s exactly because I am her daughter that I can¡¯t forgive it. That¡¯s why this is my revenge against the Empress.¡± ¡°What¡­¡­!¡± The Head Retainer couldn¡¯t confirm whether what Diaroze said was true or not. However, back in Nored, it was true that Diaroze was condemned while the Empress escaped all responsibilities while pinning everything on her. Thinking that she plotted a rebellion after being used as a scapegoat would make sense. ¡°I no longer desire the seat of the empress. I¡¯ve made a vow to myself. Even if I have to fall to slavery, I would drag Mother down from her throne.¡± Diaroze proclaimed while tracing the slave collar with her finger. Seeing that, the expressions on Eleanor and the Head Retainer¡¯s faces immediately changed. ¡°Y, Your Highness¡­¡­.it can¡¯t be, that is real?¡± Eleanor was quivering. Once a slave collar is put on you, there¡¯s no way to remove it. Moreover, it is impossible for someone who has such a thing around their neck to return to being an aristocrat. That¡¯s why such a display is showing Diaroze¡¯s extent of determination. ¡°Umu. This is necessary to gain the Calencians¡¯ trust. I have no regrets.¡± Diaroze replied with a determined tone. ¡®Well, of course, you have no regrets.¡¯ thought Kisei as he turned his cold gaze away from the whole situation. ¡°Another thing. I also have the Melemheims¡¯ full cooperation in this endeavor. Take a look at this.¡± With that said, Diaroze took out an envelope from her pocket and gave it to Eleanor and the Head Retainer. Looking at the wax seal, the Head Retainer was astonished. The wax seal certainly is the crest of House Melemheim¡­¡­..in other words, Tersis¡¯s family crest. After a glance at Diaroze, Eleanor opens the envelope. When they checked the contents of the letter contained inside, they both gulped and punched in a code written on it on their mobile terminal. A security code that is extremely difficult to forge is usually included in this type of official document and it allows the sender to be easily identified by inputting the code into their terminal. ¡°¡­¡­it¡¯s real. To think that even Tersis-sama is also betraying Nored.¡± Although she is a little eccentric, Tersis is quite famous as a textbook example of a knight. And to add to that, she is also the head of one of the three most powerful noble houses in Nored. If she¡¯s now siding with Calencia then Diaroze¡¯s story is very convincing. The Head Retainer pondered on it for a while as she tapped the table in front of her with her old finger. The dry sound of tapping strangely echoes in the quiet room. And about a minute later, she looked up. ¡°I understand Your Highness Diaroze¡¯s intention now.¡± With it looking like she¡¯s about to make a decision, Diaroze grinned in her heart. ¡°However, we have a vast territory to take care of. I am aware that this may sound greedy of us but we can¡¯t cooperate with you without anything to gain. In this regard, can you tell me how this will benefit House Fafleta?¡± TLN: 200 chapters already, only a hundred more¡­.. CH 201 Don¡¯t Count Your Chickens¡­¡­. If Diaroze had such an intricate plan to rebel against Nored then she might actually come out as a victor, thought the Head Retainer. After all, her victories and military career so far do support her boastful claim. Her cause is just. She even has a chance of victory. The question would be if there¡¯s enough benefit for the risk. Being looked at by the Head Retainer¡¯s sharp eyes which is surprising for her age, Frea glanced at Kisei. ¡°First, I would like to propose a marriage between this person and Eleanor-san.¡± ¡°Hou.¡± A marriage of convenience is quite common in aristocratic society. The Head Retainer had already expected such a thing to come out. When she looked to her side to try to check if Eleanor is satisfied with this, the Head Retainer realized that she was already ensnared so she turned her eyes toward Kisei instead. ¡°Excuse my rudeness but who might this person be? He seems to be a Terran to me though¡­¡­.¡± ¡°This is Hokuto Kisei-san. He¡¯s my¡­¡­..Frea Henrietta¡¯s fiance.¡± ¡°Ngh!?¡± Kisei let out a weird voice. He did agree to marry Schleer but he has never talked about that with Frea. He hurriedly looked at Frea but she kept her serious face on and refused to look back at him. With nowhere to turn, he shifts his eyes to Diaroze to ask for her help. ¡°¡­¡­..¡± Her expression seemed apologetic and she lightly lowered her head at him. It¡¯s not a face that says ¡®Don¡¯t worry, we are just saying that to get through this at all. It was a trap! Kisei instinctively thought so. Sisters sharing a husband is a natural practice among Vulds. Kisei recalled being told that before. The reason Frea acted like that in the car earlier was probably that she knew that it was decided that she will marry him too. ¡°If we share a husband then us, and Eleanor-san would become sister-in-law. That would be a good way to establish our alliance, correct?¡± ¡°I see, that sounds reasonable.¡± Seeing the Head Retainer naturally accept that, Nora who¡¯s sitting next to Kisei grit her teeth. Incidentally, Eleanor also looks at Frea thinking (So this is the one Nora-chan talked about¡­..). It seems she completely bought the story Nora told her before. ¡°You went and done it now, you bitches¡­¡­!¡± Nora was snarling in a small voice that Kisei could only hear but since the marriage with Eleanor was her idea in the first place, she can¡¯t say anything extra now. Frea probably understood that and tried to establish her engagement with Kisei as a fact using this chance. ¡°You said that I might have to add another bride but now I have two more right¡­¡­!¡± ¡°That one isn¡¯t my fault!¡± Frea smiled triumphantly at the two who were whispering to each other for a brief moment before reverting to her serious expression. She then directed the Head Retainer and Eleanor¡¯s attention to Tersis¡¯s letter. ¡°Not only that, it was decided that he will be marrying Tersis-san as well.¡± ¡°Ehhh!?¡± Eleanor raised her voice in surprise. After all, she knows Tersis to be a stoic person who always refuses to attend matchmaking. If the news of her marriage comes out, it would be treated as a pretty big deal even in peacetime. ¡°Congratulations! In other words, this will be an alliance between House Fafleta, the Henrietta royal family, and House Melemheim, correct? That certainly sounds wonderful.¡± The Head Retainer also seemed to be genuinely happy about the arrangement. This is a good time to have an alliance with the Melemheims. If the Empress truly gets dethroned, it is obvious that a civil war will follow. With the backing of the Melemheims, it wouldn¡¯t be difficult for their house to use the turmoil to their advantage and expand. House Fafleta is but an upstart so they are often shunned by aristocratic houses with a long history. They had to endure harassment from them and their house¡¯s growth is actually stagnant. This is their chance to break the status quo so getting on board is the obvious choice here. ¡°Certainly, with this arrangement, it would not be bad for us if House Henrietta replaced House Argarine. However, there is one thing that is still worrying me.¡± ¡°And that is?¡± ¡°It¡¯s the distance between our territories. From our territory, it would take some time even with a high-speed vessel. This would make things inconvenient in our alliance, no?¡± Even with Faster Than Light Technology, covering that much physical distance is still a difficulty. It would be inconvenient when one needs to send military reinforcement to another and it would take time for their messengers to communicate. ¡°Regarding that, I would like to make a suggestion. Is it possible to give Eleanor-san a peerage? She would serve as our bridge to House Fafleta so it would be best if you can prepare such a position for her.¡± If she¡¯s going to marry Kisei anyway then Eleanor will end up living in Calencia and Frea thought that it wouldn¡¯t be a bad idea to have her take such a position. ¡°That is a good idea. If a peerage of a viscountess is enough then I believe we can prepare it right away.¡± ¡°Hou, a viscountess is it. Thank you for understanding.¡± Since the head of House Fafleta is a countess, a viscountess position that is neither too high nor too low from that would be just right. ¡°With these conditions, I think our alliance is possible. I will head back and discuss this more with the Head. I believe that we can give you a good reply soon.¡± After glancing at the memo in her hand, the Head Retainer said that with a smile. The Head Retainer couldn¡¯t make such an important decision by herself but with how long she served the family and its current Head, she believes that she can convince them. ¡°Thank you very much. Also, please take a look at this document. It detailed our future strategy¡­¡­¡­¡± With this, their alliance is as good as established. Thinking so, Frea secretly stroked her chest in relief. TLN: The negotiation is done, back to the shenanigans¡­.. CH 202 A Toast ¡°Man, thanks a lot! It¡¯s thanks to Kisei-kun that things went so well.¡± That evening, Kisei and Frea was having dinner in a private room of the hotel¡¯s restaurant. No one else was with them in this small and stylish room. Diaroze forcibly dragged Nora who protested the arrangement and they are now in a similar room nearby. That was probably Diaroze¡¯s consideration toward Frea. ¡°Well, hahaha¡­¡­..I¡¯m really glad it all worked out.¡± In this particular case, Kisei¡¯s only role was bait. In the negotiation part, he was just sitting there to show his face to the other party. Thinking about it now, rather than happily celebrating, he could only smile bitterly at how little he¡¯s done. Seeing him like that, Frea shyly scratched her cheek. ¡°I mean, I do feel sorry you know? I know that it was a lot of burden on you¡­¡­.¡± ¡°It¡¯s okay, we are already kind of a relative after all¡­¡­¡­¡± If things keep going in this direction then his body surely won¡¯t last but it was already done. He isn¡¯t going to complain about their plan to rope in Eleanor now. Still, he has something else on his mind. ¡°Are we really going to get married?¡­¡­¡± ¡°Y, yeah¡­¡­¡± Frea blushed and started to fiddle on the table. Her eyes averted from him. ¡°Kisei-kun is already engaged to a lot of people but¡­¡­most of them are from Nored, right? Considering the political balance, it would be bad if you only have 2 brides from Calencia after all¡­¡­.¡± With her eyes still turned away, Frea said that as if she was trying to make an excuse. However, a moment later, she smiled and turned her eyes back toward Kisei. ¡°Well, that¡¯s just a front though.¡± ¡°A, a front¡­¡­¡­¡± ¡°Actually you see, I¡­¡­from the beginning, I¡¯ve been going for you. Well, let¡¯s say that it¡¯s love at first sight¡­¡­.¡± ¡°I, I see¡­¡­.¡± Recalling Schleer telling him the same thing, Kisei¡¯s face reddened. They are twins so they might be more similar than he expected. ¡°That being said, I was aiming for polygamy from the start¡­..it¡¯s pathetic of me, isn¡¯t it. I was actually pushing Schleer-chan¡¯s back you know? At first, I doubted if it would work out though.¡± Saying so, Frea looked away again. Her cheeks are slightly inflated and she looked kind of embarrassed. ¡°Do you hate the idea of marrying this Oneesan (In-law)? If you don¡¯t¡­¡­then, let¡¯s get married. Even if you don¡¯t like me now, I will do my best so that you will come to love me¡­¡­.¡± When asked this kind of question, Kisei always couldn¡¯t bring himself to say that he hates the other party so he could only sigh. Of course, his answer will be the same this time as well. ¡°I don¡¯t hate you. You are Schleer¡¯s Onee-chan after all.¡± ¡°Nn, that¡¯s enough for me now. Eventually, I will make sure that you will come to love me regardless of Schleer-chan.¡± Surprisingly, Frea seems to be quite confident. Seeing her smile at him, Kisei also smiled back at her. Then, the two heard a knock coming from the door. A waitress entered the room with a silver tray in her hand. The waitress elegantly placed cocktail glasses in front of them. It seems to be an aperitif. ¡°Ahh, sorry, I¡¯m still a minor so¡­¡­..¡± While looking at the content of the glass which seemed like white wine to him, Kisei said that while waving his hand from side to side. ¡°Right, Schleer-chan told me about that before I think? Hokuto-kun is 19 years old right?¡± ¡°Yes¡­¡­¡± ¡°In our country, 18 years old is already considered an adult you know. It¡¯s fine.¡± Said Frea with a grin. However, Kisei was a little troubled. After all, even if there¡¯s no problem regarding the law, getting a man drunk is still a common tactic in Vuld society. ¡°It¡¯s your first time drinking so I chose something that¡¯s easy to drink. It¡¯s okay.¡± ¡°¡­¡­okay, I will try.¡± Well, the other party is someone who he¡¯s already scheduled to marry anyway. She wouldn¡¯t resort to that kind of tactic to have his way with him now. Thinking so, Kisei picked up the glass. ¡°I¡¯m glad. Then let¡¯s have a toast.¡± Frea happily said and the two brought their glasses together for a toast. When Kisei nervously put the glass to his mouth, he found the content surprisingly delicious. It had a juice-like refreshing sweetness and it was easy for him to drink too. ¡°Ahh, this is nice.¡± This time he took another sip without thinking too much about it. When he swallowed it down, he got a warm feeling in the back of his stomach. ¡°Be careful okay? It¡¯s easy to drink so a first-time drinker can get drunk in a blink of an eye after all.¡± Said Frea with a mischievous expression as she placed her glass on the table. She¡¯s quite an experienced drinker so she knows how to handle her alcohol. Since she¡¯s finally got a chance, she wants to enjoy her time drinking with Kisei. ¡°Unn, I¡¯ll be careful.¡± Saying so, Kisei took another sip. Because they are alone, he might have gotten thirsty from all the nervousness. Perhaps the alcohol is already working, his cheeks have turned a little redder as well. Seeing him like that, Frea presented him with a glass of cold water while suppressing the dirty urges that swell from inside her. CH 203 The Ambush In the end, it wasn¡¯t until late at night that Kisei returned to the [Radiant]. He parted ways with Diaroze and Nora who accompanied him in front of his room before opening the door feeling tipsy. ¡°Uwah!?¡± The moment the light turned on automatically, Kisei let out a scream. The reason is Tersis who was kneeling on the floor in front of him. She¡¯s staring at him with a look that he has never seen before. ¡°M, My Lord¡­¡­.¡± As she says that in a faint voice, Tersis shakily stands up. Kisei was unable to comprehend why Tersis is in his room so his body remains frozen. She said that she needs a key to his room so that she can protect him in case of an emergency so he entrusted one to her but¡­¡­¡­she has never made use of it until now. ¡°Pl, please take this¡­¡­¡­..¡± While Kisei was still confused, Tersis presented him with the longsword she usually hangs around her waist along with its scabbard. When he instinctively received it from her, it felt extremely heavy. After all, it¡¯s a real sword. ¡°Please end my life with this¡­¡­.I am no longer qualified as a knight¡­¡­..!¡± ¡°WHY!?¡± Kisei¡¯s mind turned blank at her sudden request. Certainly, she seemed off ever since he kissed her yesterday but asking him to kill her is just too much. ¡°Uu, I, I¡­¡­.! Last night¡­..I¡­Uuugh¡­¡­.!¡± She said that far before tears began spilling from her scarlet eyes. It¡¯s clear that she¡¯s not in a normal state of mind. In a hurry, Kisei pulled her hand and made her sit on his bed. She won¡¯t make any sense unless he calms her down first. Thinking so, he gently wipes her tears with his handkerchief and speaks to her in a soft voice. ¡°Well, calm down a little okay. I¡¯ve just got back¡­¡­.¡± After gently patting her shoulder, Kisei took out a bottle of mineral water from the refrigerator and poured it into two cups before handing one to Tersis. He actually wanted to serve tea or coffee but he¡¯s quite clumsy so he can¡¯t really brew either of them well. ¡°My deepest apology¡­¡­..¡± Receiving the cup with both hands, Tersis gulped the content down her throat. The way she drank made it seem like she was very thirsty. Perhaps she¡¯s been waiting for him for a while. ¡°Umm, so what happened? You said something about yesterday earlier right.¡± ¡°A, About that¡­¡­¡± As though she truly finds it hard to say, Tersis averted her eyes away. Then after a short while, she turned back to Kisei with a determined look on her face. ¡°L, Last night,¡­¡­..I remembered My Lord¡¯s Kiss and I¡­¡­..I comforted myself¡­¡­..¡± ¡°¡­¡­.you comforted yourself?¡± For a moment, Kisei didn¡¯t understand what she was saying but he realized it immediately after and his face cramped up. ¡°You mean, umm¡­¡­you mean like [that]?¡± ¡°¡­¡­.yes.¡± After hesitating for a while, Tersis replied with a complicated expression. She then stands up again with tears in her eyes. ¡°Wh, when I recall the feel of your lips, the bottom of my stomach just starts to tingle¡­¡­.I couldn¡¯t stand it¡­¡­.! However, to lust after their own lord, that¡¯s not how a knight should conduct oneself! I can only apologize to My Lord through my death! Please take my life!¡± ¡°Seriously¡­¡­.¡± It was the first time that a person confessed something like that to him. Since the other party is the serious Tersis, the impact it has on him is quite great as well. In a way, he¡¯s more surprised by this than Diaroze¡¯s coming out as a masochist. Even so, it would also trouble Kisei if Tersis has to die for such a silly reason. Due to the influence of the alcohol, his judgment was dulled and he made an immediate decision. ¡°Well, please sit down first.¡± ¡°H, However.¡± ¡°Sit.¡± ¡°Yes¡­¡­¡± Reluctantly, Tersis sits down on the bed again. Just like that, Kisei silently stood up, walked in front of her, and takes her lips. ¡°Nngh¡­¡­.!?¡± Tersis couldn¡¯t react to that sudden kiss. She tried to pull her body away but soon her eyes became blank. Eventually, she gently reached for Kisei¡¯s body and tightly hugged him. ¡°¡­¡­¡± Their kiss lasted for several minutes. Naturally, it would be bad if they started exchanging saliva now so they didn¡¯t stick their tongue in. Still, Tersis had a clearly disappointed look when Kisei parted his lips from hers. ¡°¡­¡­we may be master and servant but aren¡¯t we also husband and wife? There¡¯s no particular problem if we lust after one another you know.¡± ¡°That¡¯s¡­..¡± Tersis tried to say something but Kisei immediately sealed her mouth with his lips. With this, Tersis has no choice but to stay quiet. When he pulled his lips back again, Tersis began gulping down her saliva. ¡°You know, actually¡­¡­.I¡¯m also excited by Tersis-san¡¯s body too. We are the same right.¡± ¡°Eh.¡± Although he wouldn¡¯t normally say this, Kisei is quite drunk today. Thanks to that, he is able to say such a thing without batting an eye. His unexpected words made her yelp in surprise. However, she doesn¡¯t hate that. Rather, she¡¯s quite happy by it and she has a terribly excited look on her face. ¡°It¡¯s okay you know, something like a kiss, we can do it as much as we like. Besides, well,¡­¡­.I¡¯m a little happy that you thought of me when you do it too.¡± ¡°Happy¡­¡­?¡± ¡°It¡¯s embarrassing but¡­.yes. At least it is still better than you thinking of another man. Rather, I want you to think of me¡­¡­.¡± Since they are in polygamy, he certainly felt that monopolizing her is wrong but that was still Kisei¡¯s real feeling. ¡°Un, Understood! I will never think of another man!¡± However, Tersis repeatedly nodded happily as she replied so. Moreover, she seems a lot more excited and the sweet body odor specific to Vulds starts to rise from her body. ¡°T, Then, umm,¡­¡­..I have an extremely impertinent request to ask of you, My Lord¡­¡­..¡± Perhaps her sexual desire and the joy from the acceptance by her Lord are making her bring up an outrageous request. ¡°A, A picture¡­¡­may I have a picture of you?¡± ¡°A picture?¡± ¡°Of M, My Lord¡¯s¡­¡­.I, I mean I¡¯m fine with My Lord¡¯s lips but, I¡¯m also curious about that other thing as well.¡± Said Tersis and she glanced at Kisei¡¯s body. Since he was drinking, his body temperature was higher than usual and as a result, his appearance right now is quite suggestive from the perspective of a Vuld woman. ¡°¡­¡­while you¡¯re looking at it, um,¡­..you are going to do that?¡± However, Kisei was also not thinking straight due to the alcohol and Tersis¡¯s pheromone. On the other hand, when he asked her that question while throwing a suggestive glance at her, Tersis nodded with a bright red face. ¡°Then, there¡¯s no helping it I guess¡­¡­¡± Kisei agreed with a smile but once he regains his usual sense he will regret that answer for a while. TLN: Nice¡­. CH 204 Selfies The next morning. Kisei was writhing in self-loathe in his bed. Because of the alcohol influence, he said something strange to Tersis last night. It would have been nice if he drank to the extent that he doesn¡¯t remember what happened last night but unfortunately, he perfectly remembers what he did yesterday. ¡°W, What have I done¡­..¡± Kisei was holding his head while moaning to himself. Last night he let Tersis take more than a hundred risque pictures of him. He was rather into it last night but when he thought about what he did, he couldn¡¯t help but feel like he just did something outrageous. It was just too embarrassing. ¡°UOAHHHHH¡­¡­.¡± Even while sinking in the sea of shame and despair, Kisei also realized that he can¡¯t be rolling in his bed like this forever. With one last moan, he got up and checked the time on his mobile terminal. There, he found that he has tons of notifications on his message app. He opened it while cocking his head wondering what was going on but his face immediately cramped at what he saw. ¡°Geh¡­.¡± The sender was all Tersis. Every single one of them is an image instead of a message. Moreover, they are all lewd photos of the almost naked Tersis in various poses with expressions ranging from tired to satisfied as if she just took them after finishing a workout. Naturally, the parts of her body that should not be seen were also exposed. She also looked to be embarrassed yet somewhat proud at the same time. ¡°The hell is this¡­¡­the hell is this!?¡± With blood drained from his face, Kisei jumped off his bed. These are the so-called erotic selfies. It¡¯s not really that strange for lovers to be exchanging this but the other party is the head of a major aristocratic house. Pictures like this would only serve as a time bomb. Kisei immediately leaped out of his room to confront her about it. He¡¯s still wearing his jerseys which he usually uses as nightwear since he doesn¡¯t even have time to change. His destination is obviously Tersis¡¯s personal quarter. ¡°Oya, if it isn¡¯t My Lord. Good morning.¡± When Kisei was sprinting full-speed in the corridor, Tersis casually appeared in front of him. She looked strangely glowing today. Kisei replied with [Good morning] and immediately dragged her sleeves and pulled her into a deserted corner. Fortunately, Tersis was in a good mood and followed him without resisting. ¡°Oya, Oya Oya. Fufu, as expected of My Lord. To think that you could immediately understand my wish.¡± After confirming that there was no one around, Tersis grinned. Then, while Kisei was wondering how to speak to her, she put her hand on his cheek and brought her face close to his. She¡¯s trying to kiss him. ¡°W, Wait! I still haven¡¯t brushed my teeth yet!¡± ¡°I¡¯ve already done it so it¡¯s fine.¡± Without listening to him, Tersis kissed his lips and moved to kiss his forehead. Since he told her that she can kiss him as much as she likes yesterday, it was hard for him to refuse now. After a sigh, he also kissed her back on the forehead in return. ¡°Ohoh, as I thought, you¡¯re so wonderful¡­¡­thank you, My Lord.¡± With the morning kiss done, Tersis was all smiles by herself. His earlier urgency was melted away by her happy look but he can not afford to give up. ¡°That aside, what¡¯s the meaning of this!¡± Said Kisei as he showed her the erotic selfies on his terminal. After a glance at it, Tersis shyly turns her eyes away. ¡°I mean, I was allowed to take such embarrassing pictures of My Lord so I thought that it would be rude if I did not return the favor.¡± ¡°And how did that end with these erotic selfies!?¡± ¡°Well, but¡­¡­My Lord said that you were excited by my body yesterday so¡­¡­.¡± ¡°Nnngh!!¡± He did say that. In fact, the combination of her lustrous red hair and her dignified look was extremely beautiful to him. Moreover, her tallness and moderately muscular body are also very intriguing. However, he¡¯s now regretting letting her know about his thoughts about her body. That was clearly sexual harassment. No, it was the other side who started it first though. ¡°Last night¡­¡­.I managed to get off 10 times from the photos I took¡­¡­.that¡¯s why I thought I should repay My Lord.¡± ¡°10 TIMES!?¡± ¡°¡­..is that too much? M, My apology.¡± ¡°Nnnnngh!!¡± Kisei certainly thought that that was too much but he just can¡¯t bring himself to say it. All he can do now is growl at himself. When he first met her, she seemed like the type that held no interest in anything other than fighting and her honor as a knight but to think that someone can change this much¡­. ¡°Ahh, leaving that aside,¡­¡­.there is something I must inform you, My Lord.¡± ¡°¡­..what is it.¡± Because of how he had to deal with this whole strange ordeal since morning, his mental power is already exhausted. He gives Tersis a slightly grudgeful glare to beg her not to give him any more headaches but she nonchalantly looks back and calmly answers him as usual. ¡°It appears that the main force of the Noredian army has begun to move.¡± ¡°They finally came huh!¡± That news seems to have blown away his mental fatigue in an instant and his expression is now filled with energy and fighting spirit. Seeing him like that, Tersis also smiles ferociously. ¡°To intercept their movement, the Calencian fleet will sorties all ships at noon today. It appears that the decisive battle is finally upon us, My Lord.¡± CH 205 Preparation to the Decisive Battle Kisei and the others gathered in the ship¡¯s conference room. Despite it being early in the morning, all of their military executives had assembled for the meeting. ¡°Allow me to explain our situation.¡± Said Schleer as she stands in front of a large monitor. Perhaps she didn¡¯t have time to properly get dressed, her long white hair was a mess. ¡°As most of you already know, there was a report from our intelligence department that the Noredian Fleet has departed from their country.¡± Whispering immediately spread through the room. Some felt excited that they could finally get some action while others were anxious about their chance of victory. ¡°The enemy fleet consists of 38 battleships and more than 150 auxiliary ships with an emphasis on destroyer-class. Even after combining our Calencian standing army and the fleet under Lady Valentina¡¯s command, their fleet still tripled our size¡­¡­..we can expect an extremely tough battle ahead of us.¡± ¡°The gap has widened even more than when the war first started isn¡¯t it¡­¡­..¡± One of the soldiers muttered with a quivering voice. The Calencian army as well as the rebels led by Valentina have suffered a lot of damage in the battles so far. On the other hand, Nored is mobilizing their entire force which is incomparable in scale to the Calencia Expeditionary Fleet at the start of the war. ¡°Even if we count only their battleships, they still have 40 more than us¡­¡­.just how much force they have left back home I wonder?¡± Kisei whispered his opinion to Tersis who was sitting at his side. The current difference in scale is simply despairing but if their opponent still has a reserve force back home then this will prove to be an even more difficult battle. ¡°There are some forces that can not be mobilized outside the country in case of civil war and foreign threat¡­¡­.no matter how much I play it down, I believe that they still have a fleet of the same scale back at the homeland, My Lord.¡± ¡°Hii, so the actual size is twice as big huh¡­¡­a superpower really is something isn¡¯t it.¡± ¡°That being said, Nored can not afford to send everything at us. If we do not plan a counter-invasion, I don¡¯t think that we have to pay them any mind.¡± Instead of a foreign invasion, the aristocrats of the Nored empire are more afraid of a rebellion by its common class. After all, a Vuld society is functioning by having a small number of aristocrats rule over the common mass. This is especially the case in a power-centric country such as Nored so the majority of its military has to direct its attention at its own citizens. ¡°Have you predicted the enemy¡¯s route of invasion?¡± It was Diaroze who raised that question. Even though she has fallen to slavery, she still has a boastful attitude compared to everyone else here. ¡°It¡¯s likely that they will use the same route you did. The Noredians wouldn¡¯t go out of their way to take a detour after all.¡± An old woman who was sitting next to Schleer answered with a frown. She¡¯s the Calencian army¡¯s chief of staff, Reit Cadenza. She¡¯s still commanding battles from the frontline despite her old age. Naturally, she has fought against Diaroze on multiple occasions ever since the war began. It¡¯s certainly unavoidable for her not to have some qualms about Diaroze¡¯s participation. ¡°Given the Empress¡¯s personality, it¡¯s possible that she might try to take us by surprise though¡­¡­.still, it¡¯s true that with the incorporation of the noble army, she might not try anything strange this time.¡± After all, they have more than enough force to trample Calencia. If the Empress wants to adopt a strategy to avoid a frontal battle then the nobles will start to think that the Empress is a coward. From their perspective, they have to cover for Diaroze¡¯s failure, that¡¯s why allowing the imperial family to suffer more disgrace is not an option. ¡°So, we are going to intercept them in the Galea system?¡± Recalling her past battles, Diaroze asked. The Galea system is on the outer edge of Calencia¡¯s territory and was the place where Noredian and Calencian fleets first engaged in the war. At that time, the Noredian fleet¡­..in other words, Diaroze ended up as the victor. ¡°Yes. According to the Starway, this place gives us the best chance at catching them. We¡¯ve already repaired the defense equipment you destroyed in the initial attack as well.¡± Although FTL has been established, the interstellar routes are still limited. Debris, strong electromagnetic fields, black holes¡­¡­.there are countless dangers in outer space. That¡¯s why the safe path for interstellar travel is the Starway which has unmanned lighthouses installed at regular intervals. ¡°I see, that place huh¡­¡­.I remember it. Fumu.¡± Diaroze put her thumb on her chin with a grin. A terribly nasty expression is on her face. It seems like she came up with some kind of evil plan again. Seeing her like that both Schleer and the Chief of Staff stiffened. ¡°The defense equipment huh. Then, we are going to that ice planet¡­..Galea-E right?¡± ¡°¡­..yes, that is the plan.¡± The Chief of Staff replies with a doubtful tone. The fifth planet in the Galea system, Galea-E is a stronghold fortified with artillery equipment. Considering the inferiority of their fleet, the main idea of their plan is to hold the defensive line here. ¡°Then, I have something that I want you to prepare.¡± ¡°¡­¡­¡± The Chief of Staff silently glared at Diaroze. It¡¯s already awkward for her to be attending this meeting in the first place but it¡¯s even more unagreeable when she¡¯s making calls like this. After all, the enemy general they will be fighting this time is Diaroze¡¯s real mother. ¡°Well, why don¡¯t we listen to her first. Everyone here should already be well aware of her commanding ability. If she is willing to help us then don¡¯t you think that she would be a reliable ally?¡± Schleer proposed so. After all, she no longer thinks that Diaroze is capable of betraying them. Rotten as she is, Diaroze¡¯s still the woman who shared her first night with Kisei. It¡¯s natural that she has formed a kind of companionship with her. ¡°¡­..if Your Highness says so. Okay, what do you want us to prepare?¡± The Chief of Staff reluctantly agreed. ¡°Large-scale laser-triggered pure fusion warheads and multistandard pulse engines for moving asteroids. I need as many of the former as possible.¡± ¡°J, Just what are you planning to do with those things!?¡± The Chief of Staff could only open her eyes wide at Diaroze¡¯s outrageous request¡­¡­.. CH 206 The Ice Planet The fifth planet of the Galea system, Galea-E. A frigid planet covered in layers of thick dry ice. The Calencian fleet and Valentina¡¯s fleet which arrived there after more than a week of travel carved out the surface made of white carbon ice blocks and docked their ships there. ¡°Hiee¡­¡­¡± On the upper deck of the battlecruiser [Radiant], a chill ran down Kisei¡¯s back. Beyond his line of sight is a series of steep icebergs. The huge ice mountain range boasts an altitude well above the Everest on earth and it is terrifyingly intimidating. They have erected an Air-field which provides them with breathing air and temperature on the level where they can operate outside without wearing thick jackets but the scene before his eyes still sent a chill down his back. Additionally, because of how it is quite far away from the nearest star, the cold temperature and the lack of daylight even in the daytime here are quite unusual for him. ¡°How nostalgic, I wonder how many months it has been since I was last here¡­¡­¡± Next to Kisei, Saki mutters so in a sentimental tone. She also participated in the first battle here so this is her second time on this planet. ¡°I want to win this time though¡­¡­Oi, how¡¯s our chance? Does it look good?¡± ¡°Who knows?¡± Diaroze shrugged at the sudden question. ¡°This is the first time I fight a battle against an army three times the size of my own too. I can¡¯t say anything for sure.¡± ¡°Tsk¡­¡­.just lie and say we can win or something. You think so too right?¡± While clicking her tongue, Saki wrapped her arm around Kisei¡¯s shoulder. The crew who were resting and working around them started to give her a hateful glare. ¡°Don¡¯t go demoralize your own soldiers right before the battle¡­¡­¡± Diaroze tears Saki off him in a fed-up manner. Perhaps because she hadn¡¯t been with him for a while, she¡¯s strangely clingy to Kisei today. That being said, since Kisei is seen as an idol by the soldiers, it¡¯s not good to flirt with him in front of them. ¡°Well, I will do what I can. Do your best too okay.¡± ¡°You don¡¯t have to tell me!¡± Saki said that and went Hmph! ¡°It should be around two weeks until the Noredians arrive huh? I¡¯d like to get us ready as much as possible by then though¡­¡­¡± Saying so, Saki glanced at the icebergs. They are installing intercepting weapons such as anti-aircraft guns and missile pads there. They don¡¯t have much time left but as long as they are fighting with an inferior number, no amount of preparation would be considered enough. ¡°Come to think of it, your top aces¡­¡­the 4 Heavenly right? You talked with the last one and she¡¯s on our side now, isn¡¯t she? Where¡¯s she now?¡± ¡°Right, I went that far for her after all, I will cry if she can¡¯t make it in time for the battle you know!¡± Kisei immediately jumped on Saki¡¯s question. After all, he went as far as promising to marry Eleanor, it would be bad if all that was for naught. ¡°That being said, even she wouldn¡¯t move against the will of her family head right¡­¡­..as long as the Head Retainer managed to convince the family head, I think it will be fine.¡± Diaroze frowns and looks up at the sky. She also has her worries about Eleanor¡¯s matter. Eleanor herself was enthusiastic to join them and she wanted to come with them on this operation but¡­¡­.since her house still hasn¡¯t given a reply yet, her house arrest in the capital is still in effect. ¡°Seriously, it¡¯s all so disorganized.¡± ¡°I also wish we had done something about her a little earlier. It was my mistake.¡± Diaroze said that with a difficult expression but immediately after, her face turned nasty and she whispered something into Saki¡¯s ear. ¡°I think that woman is quite an aggressive type. I would advise you to deepen your friendship with Master before she gets here you know.¡± ¡°Muh¡­..¡± Saki has never directly met Eleanor before. However, she does know that she¡¯s from an upstart aristocratic house. That made an unpleasant thought come into her mind. ¡°Right, it wouldn¡¯t be funny if she suddenly starts throwing her weight around after all.¡± ¡°What are you instigating her to do now?¡± Kisei stared at Diaroze who simply laughed and separated herself from Saki. ¡°Kisei!¡± Then, Schleer suddenly ran up to them. When the people around them heard her calling him without any honorifics, the eyes of the crew became sharp again. In the middle of the unfriendly gaze, Schleer froze for a moment before clearing her throat. She¡¯s done it again, thought Saki as she bitterly smiles at her. ¡°Kisei-san, since we have time, we¡¯ve decided to launch a training exercise for our troops, do you want to participate?¡± ¡°Ahh, that sounds nice. I want to see the terrain around here for myself too¡­¡­.¡± Since it¡¯s an interception battle, he wants to make the most of the advantage of the land. Naturally, Kisei also wants to try flying around to check the place for himself. ¡°If that¡¯s the case then I will go too.¡± Saying so, Saki put her hand on Kisei¡¯s shoulder. ¡°They finally finished refurbishing [Dainsleif] you see. I will definitely wash away my disgrace on Senstera here.¡± Although not to the extent of [Ex-Caliburn], Schleer and Saki¡¯s strikers were also modified from their engine to their weapons to combat the Noredian ultra-high performance zeniths. Besides, even though they are now allies, they still do not want the 4 Heavenly and Valentina to look down on them either. Thus they decided to go all out this time. ¡°I thought that you would say that so I also invited that stalker wo¡ª-¡­¡­.Valentina-san to join us too.¡± ¡°Nice.¡± Replied Saki with a ferocious smile on her face. TLN: I was thinking Starwar (Battle of Hoth) but it¡¯s not quite that since they put their base on a mountain range. CH 207 The Heavenly Thunder Attacks 1 For a while after that, Kisei and the others spend their days doing training exercises. Unlike the engineer units which are doing the construction work, the combat personnel only have regular patrol duty. That¡¯s why exercises were conducted in their free time. ¡°Phew¡­¡­¡± While wiping off his dripping sweat, Kisei let out a deep sigh. Even on a cold planet like this, the air-conditioned cockpit was still rather hot. While stretching his muscles, he confirms that his striker was properly fixed into the general-purpose maintenance dock. He had just got back from today¡¯s exercise and is now returning his striker to the storage deck on the [Radiant]. ¡°Hey, don¡¯t you think the set temperature of the air conditioner is too high?¡± ¡°You think so?¡± Replied Diaroze with a satisfied smile. She then brought her face close to his neck and licked off the bead of sweat there with her tongue. Kisei raised a small scream and his body trembled a little. ¡°¡­¡­I¡¯m already used to it but I don¡¯t think you should be doing this just anywhere you know?¡± ¡°Kufufu.¡± With a cramped expression, Kisei shoo the smiling Diaroze away. She always tries to lick him whenever a chance arises. Kisei himself has already gotten used to her masochistic tendency but he can¡¯t say the same for this habit of hers yet. Thinking that he can¡¯t allow this to continue, Kisei hurriedly opened the cockpit hatch and jumped out into the bucket lift which was automatically raised by a robot arm to receive him. Diaroze also followed him from behind. After a few seconds, the bucket reached the floor making a dull sound. ¡°Thank you for your hard work.¡± The two were greeted by Schleer who got back before them. Saki was also behind her. ¡°How was it? The teamwork between our soldiers and Valentina¡¯s I mean.¡± Kisei¡¯s role in the exercise today was as an aggressor pilot. To be specific, he was acting as one of the Noredian high-performance zeniths against the common troops of the combined Calencian-Valentina force. ¡°They are doing fine. They did much better today than on their first day you know.¡± Valentina¡¯s troops are former Noredian army so naturally, it¡¯s difficult for them to fight in tandem with the Calencian army. After all, their whole methodology and combat doctrine are vastly different. It would be very bad if they do not fix that before the actual battle. The exercises they have been conducting over the past few days were for that purpose. ¡°Well, this is still very last minute though¡­..¡± Said Saki with a shrug. In the end, the allied force collapsed in the middle of the exercise today and they were defeated by the aggressor squad led by Kisei. ¡°Still, this is better than nothing right.¡± Saki continued with a bitter smile. They were doing even worse than this on their first day so the exercises were certainly effective. ¡°Even so, the time we expected the Noredian army to arrive is just around the corner. We can not afford to take our time now.¡± Schleer¡¯s expression seemed clearly impatient. Their intelligence department has been reporting the current position of the Noredian fleet on a daily basis. They are so close that it wouldn¡¯t be strange if the first contact could be established at any moment. There¡¯s no doubt that the enemy¡¯s advance party will arrive at this system within just a few days. ¡°Right¡­¡­it would be a lie if I say I¡¯m not anxious after all¡­¡­..¡± At that moment, the wind blew into the storage deck and the sound of the shutter opening started to echo inside. Looking at the direction of the sound, the crew was guiding a high-speed boat in with glowing marshaling wands. ¡°Nn? Isn¡¯t that¡­¡­.¡± The ship was not the model the Calencian army usually uses. It was a newer, high-end type model. Moreover, the place where the insignia which indicates its country affiliation was painted over. The mysterious high-speed boat slowly headed inside and stopped with a faint noise in front of where Kisei and the others were standing. Then, the hatch installed on its flank opened and a staircase extended down to the floor. ¡°Long time no see!¡± It was Eleanor who appeared from inside the boat. She¡¯s wearing a high-ranking Calencian military uniform with a shiny insignia on her collar indicating the rank of lieutenant colonel. ¡°Oh, you made it huh.¡± Diaroze sighs in relief. Since she couldn¡¯t get a reply from the head of House Fafleta, she was anxious if Eleanor wouldn¡¯t be able to participate in the battle. ¡°I apologize for my late arrival. It was quite difficult persuading Okaa-sama¡­..no, the Head.¡± ¡°No, it¡¯s fine, I¡¯m just glad that we can fight alongside each other.¡± When Kisei said that while extending his hand out to her with a smile, Eleanor firmly grasped it. She then wrapped her hands around his and started rubbing it. In response, Schleer tore her hands off with a sour look. ¡°Welcome aboard, Lt. Col. Eleanor Al Fafleta. However, please be careful of the excessive skinship onboard. We have to worry about our soldiers¡¯ eyes after all.¡± ¡°Oh, My apology.¡± Eleanor accepted Schleer¡¯s warning with a challenging smile but right after, she immediately tilted her head. ¡°¡­¡­your hair is a lot longer than I remembered, Your Highness Frea?¡± ¡°I¡¯m Schleer. Frea¡¯s younger sister!¡± ¡°Ara Ara, I see! My apology!¡± This time, Eleanor¡¯s apology seems to be sincere. However, she still strangely gives off an aura of an airhead. ¡°Can we really rely on her¡­¡­¡± ¡°Her skills as a pilot and the influence of her house are the real deal. So yeah, surprisingly¡­¡­..¡± While gazing at Eleanor as if they are looking at someone unfortunate, Saki and Diaroze whispered to each other¡­¡­ CH 208 The Heavenly Thunder Attacks 2 Since they can¡¯t afford to keep on chatting at the storage deck forever, they disbanded once and after they took a bath and changed into new clothes, they met up again at the dining room reserved for aristocrats. The reason they chose this place is that this serves as a welcome party for Eleanor as well. ¡°Still, this is Calencia¡¯s flagship huh¡­¡­..¡± Eleanor muttered her impression with a difficult expression. She seemed to have been looking around the ship when the others were taking a bath. The dining room here is rather luxurious but in the end, the [Radiant] is still an old ship so it looks somewhat faded. Moreover, rather than possessing the charm of an antique ship with a long history, it gives off a shabby impression instead. ¡°Unlike Nored, our budget is not so abundant after all¡­¡­¡­¡± Schleer replies while sipping the coffee from her white porcelain cup. Dinner is still not ready yet so the staff has served coffee and tea first. Incidentally, with the situation being what it is, they did not serve any alcohol. ¡°I¡¯m rather impressed you¡¯ve been able to put up such a good fight with this kind of equipment.¡± Eleanor¡¯s words may sound terribly like sarcasm but it seems that it¡¯s her honest impression. Despite the irregularity that is Kisei, It was still true that the Calencian army managed to push back their Noredian invaders. ¡°Well, since we Fafletas have already sworn our allegiance, you should prepare yourself to take command on a bigger ship. I will have my people commission a new battleship for you later.¡± ¡°We¡¯ve already got the [Odervansen] so we don¡¯t need a new ship for the time being. We intend to make it our flagship after all.¡± ¡°I don¡¯t know about making a ship you captured into your flagship though.¡± Diaroze crossed her arms and directed a fed-up gaze at Schleer but she simply shrugged her shoulders. Adding more ships to their ranks is certainly important but because Nored did whatever they wanted in the initial invasion, many of Calencia¡¯s territories were devastated. Right now, she wants to focus their budget on the rebuilding as much as possible. ¡°Well, let¡¯s leave that aside for now.¡± Eleanor said that in a moody tone before winking at Kisei and smiling at him. She then stands up from her chair and walks over to him. Saki cautiously watches Eleanor and puts down her teacup on the table. She put her hands on the table and was about to stand up as well. Seeing that, Eleanor signaled to Saki with her eyes that she was not trying to start anything and returned her gaze to Kisei. ¡°Actually, I have prepared a present for you Kisei-sama,¡­..No, Kisei.¡± ¡°Eh.¡± Being suddenly talked to, Kisei¡¯s eyes start darting around in surprise and he hurriedly stands up as well. Seeing him like that, Eleanor took out something from her bosom with a smile. It was a small elegant box with a blue velvet cloth covering it. When she gently opened the box with her long fingers, a luxurious ring adorned with diamonds emerged from the inside. ¡°T, That is¡­¡­..¡± That¡¯s clearly a wedding ring. As Kisei was still surprised, Eleanor lifted up his left hand with a smug expression. On her left ring finger, a ring of a similar design could be seen as well. ¡°AHHH!¡± Seeing those rings, instead of Kisei, it was Diaroze who showed such a big reaction. Diaroze unusually lost her calm and stood up, knocking down her chair in the process. ¡°She got me! To think that I forgot such a thing exists!¡± ¡°W, What is it? Paired rings are not that big of a deal right¡­¡­¡­¡± Diaroze frowned and looked at Schleer who nonchalantly asked that question. ¡°That¡¯s an engagement ring you know! It¡¯s Terran culture¡­¡­a couple who promised themselves to each other usually wears a ring of the same design. To put it simply, the ring¡¯s there to tell other women that he¡¯s hers!¡± ¡°Wha! She¡¯s disregarding me as the main wife!?¡± Upon hearing Diaroze¡¯s explanation, Schleer finally realized the gravity of the situation. If she had known that there was such an interesting custom then she would have made use of it. While regretting her mistake, her eyes wander to Kisei¡¯s hand. Now she¡¯s wondering if she should give him one too. Since there¡¯s no engagement or wedding ring culture in Vuld¡¯s customs, she is pretty hesitant about it. After all, with polygamy being the norm, the husband¡¯s fingers would be covered by rings if they adopt such a custom. ¡°OHoHo, it seems my research into Terran marriage culture is finally paying off!¡± With a grin on her face, Eleanor put the ring on Kisei¡¯s left ring finger. ¡°It, it fits perfectly even without any measurement¡­¡­¡­?¡± The ring might be too tight or too loose if you don¡¯t measure the finger properly. However, Eleanor¡¯s ring fits snugly on his ring finger as though it was an order-made item for him. When Kisei looked at Eleanor with confusion, Eleanor unabashedly replied. ¡°Hah¡­¡­I¡¯ve already measured your size since the time we met.¡± ¡°Eh, ahh, you did excessively squeeze my hand back then¡­¡­..that¡¯s what it was?¡± Remembering how she was all over his hand on their first meeting, Kisei tried asking. And with a nonchalant look, Eleanor confirms his suspicion. ¡°Yes, that¡¯s right! I can tell your size just by touching after all.¡± ¡°You¡¯ve already thought of preparing a ring at that stage¡­¡­.?¡± ¡°No? I had it made after our marriage was decided. Back then it was purely my fetish¡­¡­.¡± ¡°P, Pervert¡­¡­..¡± Saki who has been listening quietly muttered to herself with a disgusted expression. After that, she also glanced at Diaroze. It seems she thinks that all Noredian women are perverts now. ¡°Aren¡¯t you the same though¡­¡­..¡± Managing to decipher Saki¡¯s expression, Diaroze muttered that and sighed while holding her temples. After all, Saki did make Kisei go along with her ¡®Onee-chan¡¯ play during her first time with him. ¡°W, Well, anyway, thank you for this.¡± Leaving Eleanor¡¯s fetish aside, it felt natural for him to wear such a ring as her fiance so he thanked her with a meek expression and lowered his head. ¡°Fufu, you don¡¯t have to be so formal, please smile. It¡¯s not that long since we first met after all. It¡¯s normal for us to be somewhat nervous around each other¡­¡­..still, since we are going to marry each other anyway, we are practically a family already!¡± With that said, Eleanor gently hugged Kisei. Her breast is the biggest among everyone here¡­¡­¡­..no, hers was the largest among all the women he¡¯s ever met and it is being squeezed against his flat chest. ¡°W, Wait¡­¡­.¡± Although he¡¯s gained a lot more resistance toward women¡¯s advance, this is still really stimulating for him. When Kisei¡¯s face turned bright red, they were separated by Saki and Schleer. ¡°Aren¡¯t you getting ahead of yourself here EHHH, Newcomer!?¡± ¡°The main wife is still me you know? It would trouble me if you touch him so casually like that. The order around here would be disrupted after all.¡± ¡°Ara, Ara Ara, is that so? Hmm, it seems that aside from Her Highness Frea, there are a lot of bad insects buzzing around here huh¡­¡­¡± The atmosphere suddenly tensed up. Although he still hasn¡¯t eaten yet, Kisei¡¯s stomach already started to ache¡­¡­.. CH 209 Substitution After the stomach-pain-inducing dinner, Kisei was taken by Eleanor to Valentina¡¯s ship, the [Prussia] because she said that she wants to meet the other 4 Heavenly since she hasn¡¯t met them for a long time. ¡°NNn! MY [PARFEEL]!?¡± At the [Prussia]¡¯s maintenance deck, Eleanor screamed with a deep blue face. After all, her magenta-colored Zenith, the [Parfeel] was in a terrible state where its armor and weapon were stripped off. ¡°What happened to it! I know that I was shot down but the damage suffered shouldn¡¯t be this bad right!¡± ¡°Ah¡­¡­.¡± Kisei realized the cause of [Parfeel]¡¯s current sorry state. It was because its parts were stripped off to use as spares for the other Zenith-type strikers. Its parts were also used to supplement his own personal striker, [Ex-Caliburn] and even its main weapon was the one modified from the one [Parfeel] was using. Kisei averted his eyes away because of the guilt for a moment but he still can¡¯t bring himself not to tell her. After his gaze awkwardly wandered for a few seconds, he made up his mind. ¡°I¡¯m so sorry. They used some of [Parfeel]¡¯s parts when they remodeled my striker¡­¡­.¡± ¡°EHHHHHHHH¡ª¡­¡­.¡± As expected, that came as a huge shock to Eleanor. It seems that the maintenance crew is hastily restoring it but there¡¯s not much time left until the decisive battle. Even from an amateur¡¯s point of view, it¡¯s still worrying whether they can put [Parfeel] back together in time. ¡°There¡¯s nothing we can do since our supply situation is actually pretty serious, Lady Eleanor.¡± Said Tersis. The reason why Tersis, who usually spends her time on the [Radiant] is on this ship is that she¡¯s having the crew here perform a thorough inspection on her striker. The maintenance crew onboard the [Radiant] are certainly capable of performing normal maintenance and simple inspections but when it comes to a full-scale inspection, there¡¯s no other way but to leave that to the Noredian technicians who are more skilled. ¡°Calencia can obtain mass-produced parts through their supply route but they can not procure the special-made ones. Using parts from one machine to supplement another like this is unavoidable.¡± After all, Eleanor¡¯s participation in the war was quite sudden. Until just the other day, [Parfeel] was treated as a spare that¡¯s only there to be stripped for useful parts. It¡¯s the drawback of a one-off Zenith-type like this. ¡°Guuh¡­¡­..¡± ¡°Still, with the supply shortage, it seems that it won¡¯t be completely restored. You will have to manage with lowered performance. We¡¯re already out on spare Zenith parts. There¡¯s no way around it but to use the mass-produced parts as a substitute in the reassembling.¡± ¡°No way¡­¡­a, at this rate, how can I distinguish myself¡­¡­¡± Eleanor sullenly withered. Since [Parfeel] was originally a super high-performance machine, the lowered performance due to the inferior parts means a decrease in her usefulness on the battlefield. In the first place, since [Parfeel] will easily wreck the mass-produced spare parts, they will have to put some limiters on the power output. ¡°A, about that, maybe you can compensate with your skills¡­¡­¡­.¡± ¡°Uu, that¡¯s true¡­¡­.I¡¯m one of the proud 4 Heavenly after all. Even with an inferior striker, I can¡¯t show a miserable appearance in front of others!¡± Behind them, Diaroze, who was watching that exchange, frowned and turned away while thinking what¡¯s the title of one of the 4 Heavenly worth now after Eleanor decided to betray Nored. No, since all 4 Heavenly have sided with Calencia now, you can also see it as a change in their affiliation though¡­¡­ ¡°Even so, it would be difficult with a machine like this¡­¡­.I will have to fix it properly after this battle is over.¡± Eleanor lamented at the lack of time. However, her expression immediately brightened as though she had just come up with a good idea. ¡°AHH, that¡¯s right! At that time, I can commission a Zenith for Kisei too!¡± ¡°Eh, Really!?¡± Kisei¡¯s eyes immediately shined when she said that. In fact, he seemed a lot happier than when Eleanor gave him the ring. Seeing that, Eleanor had a complicated expression for a moment but she immediately pushed out her extremely plentiful breast and continued with a boastful smile. ¡°Yes. Let¡¯s make it a super high-end one that won¡¯t lose to the 4 Heavenly¡¯s personal striker or Royalcraft!¡± If she can buy his appreciation with a present then it¡¯s a cheap price to pay. A Zenith is extremely expensive but with Eleanor¡¯s aristocratic background and the salary she received so far as one of the 4 Heavenly, her pocket money should be barely enough to commission one. ¡°Ohh, that sounds nice. Let me commission one for, My Lord too then.¡± However, without care about her deliberate plan to buy Kisei¡¯s favor, Tersis nonchalantly chimed in. In her case, rather than its value as a present, she probably just wants to see Kisei pilot a strong striker though. ¡°No, No need! My Zenith alone should be eno¡ª¡­¡­.¡± ¡°Sorry, I¡¯ve made you wait huh.¡± When Eleanor was trying to refute Tersis, a familiar confident voice suddenly called out to them. When they turned around, Valentina was there. ¡°It took more time than I expected¡­¡­. still, all of the 4 Heavenly are finally gathered. Today will be a memorable day.¡± With a grin, Valentina glanced behind her. Nora was standing there with an extremely joyful expression as she dragged a beautiful woman with long sky blue hair with her. The last of the 4 Heavenly, Liren Slaine AKA The [Heavenly Eye]. ¡°HIE¡­..it¡¯s the [Wicked Star]¡­¡­¡­!¡± The strongest sniper of the Nored empire is now standing before them with her legs shaking like a newborn baby goat. Her expression is frozen by fear¡­¡­.. TLN: This week will be the last of character focused chapters, the pew pew pew will start next week. CH 210 ¡°Uuu¡­¡­.¡± Liren, last of 4 Heavenly was dragged out in front of Kisei. She usually possesses a calm and icy demeanor and her subordinates often say that there¡¯s nothing that can make her lose her composure ¡­¡­.However, today her entire body is shivering as though she¡¯s frightened of something. ¡°EHHH~~~What¡¯s wrong [DESUKA]~? Liren-san.¡± With a grin, Nora teasingly jabbed Liren¡¯s side with her finger. However, she¡¯s so shaken that she couldn¡¯t even react to that childish mischief and her eyes are still fixed on Kisei. ¡°Eh? Uhh¡­¡­¡± On the other hand, Kisei looked at Diaroze with a confused expression as though he was asking for her help. In response, Diaroze shrugs and walks toward Liren. ¡°Well, we can finally meet. I¡¯ve always wanted to apologize to you once but I just couldn¡¯t find the chance to you know.¡± ¡°This woman ran off trying to escape from Kisei-SAN after all. Kukuku, but it¡¯s not that easy to escape from us [DESUYO]!¡± Liren betrayed Nored in the final phase of the battle on Sensterra Prime and escaped on board the [Prussia] but she locked herself inside a room and refused to meet her ex-colleagues. ¡°A, Apologize¡­¡­?¡± With a cold sweat, Liren turns her gaze from Kisei to Diaroze. It was Liren who betrayed her so there¡¯s no need for Diaroze to apologize at all. If she thinks about it, she¡¯s the one that ought to apologize instead. ¡°Your instinct was right. I shouldn¡¯t have pit my army against this man.¡± ¡°A, Ahh, my resignation letter¡­¡­..¡± Liren looked down and fixed her gaze on her toes. Then, her legs started shaking. Her fear has subsided a little but instead, it was replaced by the guilt toward Diaroze. ¡°I was surprised when you suddenly gave me that resignation letter but I might have overreacted a bit when I punished you with my electric whip.¡± ¡°No way!¡± The one who protested so was not Liren but Eleanor instead. When Liren tried to resign shortly before the operation started, it was her who suggested [Punishing] her. She may have switched sides as well but Eleanor still thinks that her decision at the time wasn¡¯t wrong. That¡¯s why she tried to complain but receiving a gaze from Diaroze, Tersis immediately moved in and covered Eleanor¡¯s mouth. On the other hand, when a tall handsome woman like Tersis holding the cute Eleanor, it somehow made the scene feel strangely aesthetic for Kisei. ¡°That¡¯s why let¡¯s make it even between us. The electric whip for your betrayal. Well, since we are going to be comrades in arms from now on so let¡¯s get along.¡± Liren was reluctant for a moment but she eventually shook hands with Diaroze. If it means that she¡¯s forgiven for the betrayal then it¡¯s something that she should be grateful for anyway. ¡°Haa, how kind of you.¡± With her cheeks puffed up, Nora started teasing them. ¡°And you see, a lot of things happened and this man is now our ally. I can guarantee that he¡¯s not the type that would shoot you in the back.¡± ¡°A guarantee like that from Diaroze might not be that trustworthy though.¡± This time it was Valentina who said something unnecessary. However, although her words sound harsh, the smile that she directed toward Liren was a friendly one. ¡°With that being the case, let me give you my guarantee as well. My Love is not some scary beast. You don¡¯t have to be scared of him okay?¡± ¡°Th, that might be the case but¡­¡­¡± Once again, Liren looks at Kisei with fear in her eyes. Kisei gives her a bitter smile in return while awkwardly scratching his cheek. ¡°Your reaction, are you a mercenary?¡± ¡°¡­..yes, formerly.¡± ¡°Ahh¡­¡­.¡± Convinced, Kisei let out a long sigh. It¡¯s exactly what he expected. His expression contained a mix of sadness and embarrassment. He shut his eyes for a moment before continuing to speak. ¡°I¡¯m hated by the other mercenaries after all huh¡­¡­¡­¡± ¡°It¡¯s not hate. It was fear.¡± Liren immediately corrected him. ¡°The bad omen that spells your defeat once you become its enemy. The shining star of death. No mercenary would dare to approach someone with that kind of reputation¡­¡­.¡± Many of the mercenaries who have to risk their lives on a daily basis are religious. However, every mercenary is superstitious and they all believe in omens and jinxes. To them, Kisei who continues to produce bizarre results on the battlefields has already been regarded as a taboo. After all, once you turn him into his enemy, you will unquestionably be defeated. Moreover, even if you have him as your ally, he would do all the heavy lifting and their earnings would decrease. From a practical point of view, Kisei is not someone any mercenary wants to get involved with. ¡°UUUUUUN¡­¡­¡­¡± However, it¡¯s not funny when something like that is said to his face. In the first place, being called a star of death even though he always does his best to avoid casualty just doesn¡¯t sit right with him. In the end, he decided to seriously start thinking of a way to get rid of that reputation of his. CH 211 Reunion of the 4 Heavenly 2 Kisei was aware that other mercenaries think of him like a tumor. He doesn¡¯t mind if they want to pick a fight with him but he really dislikes how they treat him like an omen of death. While thinking so, Kisei taps the back of his hand with his fingers. ¡°¡­¡­I really won¡¯t shoot you from behind you know. You don¡¯t have to be scared of me.¡± ¡°It¡¯s as he says. He isn¡¯t some wild beast that would bite you when you carelessly approach him after all.¡± Valentina supported him. With a casual smile, she also gently wrapped her arm around Kisei¡¯s shoulders. Seeing her touch him so familiarly like that, Eleanor¡¯s gaze turned slightly sharper. However, she doesn¡¯t say anything. After all, when she was included in the marriage, she was also told about their policy on how to deal with Valentina. ¡°Rather, the one who will do the biting is me [DESUYO]. Like this, chomp chomp.¡± Nora snuck behind Kisei and jumped on his back. She was trying to sink her teeth into his nape but Valentina silently tore her off and quickly twisted her joints. ¡°UWAHH! GIVE UP, I GIVE UP!¡± Held by Valentina who¡¯s much taller than her, the small Nora could not resist. Meanwhile, Diaroze cast a fed-up gaze at Nora wondering what she was thinking, picking a fight she knew she would lose. ¡°Seriously¡­¡­.you should know better what will happen when you touch someone else¡¯s man right?¡± Hearing Valentina says something like [someone else¡¯s man], Eleanor and Tersis looked at each other for a moment before awkwardly shrugging. They also feel guilty for what they are doing to her. ¡°W, Well, it¡¯s usually like this so let¡¯s get along with everyone from now on okay. I¡¯m not saying that you have to be our friends but at least I hope we can treat each other like normal colleagues¡­¡­I guess.¡± ¡°T, That¡¯s¡­¡­..¡± Liren averted her eyes away. What comes to her mind was the counter snipe Kisei performed on Sensterra Prime. A feat like avoiding a sniper shot originated from outside the atmosphere and successfully counterattacking with a regular blaster rifle is not on the level of being strong or skillful but supernatural. Liren shook her head violently to get rid of the fear. In her mind, she¡¯s afraid that Kisei might really shoot her from behind if he deemed her an incompetent ally. Of course, Kisei won¡¯t do that but with how little she knows him personally, she can¡¯t help but think of such possibilities. ¡°U, Uu¡­¡­¡­¡± Clenching her teeth, Liren mustered up her courage and looked straight into Kisei¡¯s eyes for the first time. There, she saw a small beautiful boy who stimulated her desire to protect him. Surprised, her body started shaking and she put her hand on her chest to try to calm down. Her heart was beating wildly from the nervousness and fear. Liren then hurriedly turned her gaze away from Kisei. When she takes a few deep breaths and looks at him again, her heart starts beating faster, this time it is even more intense than the last. ¡°¡­¡­¡± Her face turns slightly red and she turns her face away again. Suspension bridge effect or some such incomprehensible mental state is affecting her mind. Seeing that, Diaroze narrowed her eyes at her and secretly let out a sign. ¡°Th, Then, Umm, let¡¯s start as a friend, maybe¡­¡­¡­.¡± In the end, she nervously extended her hand toward him, her face still refusing to turn back to him. It seems she wants to shake hands. Relieved, Kisei exhales and reaches his hand out toward hers. ¡°¡­¡­¡­.!¡± However, the moment his fingertips touched her hand, she immediately withdrew her hand in an instant. Kisei took a step back in surprise but without even the composure to care about that, Liren hurriedly wiped her hands on her clothes. Just like that, she silently grabbed Kisei¡¯s hand and shook it. Perhaps because of her cold sweat, Liren¡¯s hand, which is unusually warm, was very moist. It must have been drenched before she wiped it. Thinking about how scared she was of him, Kisei felt a little sad. ¡°Alright, now it¡¯s settled right?¡± Valentina smiled and gently separated their hands. She then exaggeratedly shrugged her shoulders. ¡°Man, I was really worried you know. Liren was holding up inside a room this whole time so I thought that it might affect our teamwork you see.¡± ¡°That¡¯s right [DESU]. We¡¯re living on the same ship but I couldn¡¯t meet Liren-san at all.¡± ¡°What.¡± Tersis frowned at Nora¡¯s words. ¡°You did not even come out for the training exercise, Lady Liren?¡± ¡°¡­¡­.I didn¡¯t.¡± ¡°That is no good. Very well, let¡¯s go have us a mock battle right now.¡± ¡°Stop. The real battle can start at any moment now you know? It would be a problem if you don¡¯t save your strength.¡± It was Valentina who hurriedly stopped Tersis. If their enemy suddenly launches an attack on them in the middle of the exercise then it will be very bad. Right now, every combat personnel was ordered to remain on standby. The only units that are moving about right now are the patrol unit and the likes. ¡°Then why didn¡¯t you drag her out of her room earlier?¡± ¡°I was waiting for Eleanor to arrive. I expected the plan to go well after all¡­¡­..it would be easier to get Liren out if everyone¡¯s here right?¡± ¡°Well,¡­..I wonder about that.¡± Liren had a bitter expression on her face. It¡¯s also possible that she might find it even more difficult to come out if a lot of people were waiting for her. ¡°Well, it ended up alright anyway. Now we have all of the 4 Heavenly together so how about we hold a welcome party? I¡¯ve actually prepared a special dish for today you know.¡± Valentina offered with a terribly happy smile but the others awkwardly looked at each other for a moment. After all, Kisei¡¯s group already had their dinner at the [Radiant]. ¡°W, what¡¯s wrong? My Love¡­¡­¡± Valentina started to get nervous from the awkward atmosphere. Feeling sorry for her, Kisei replies. ¡°It¡¯s, it¡¯s nothing. Man, I¡¯m looking forward to it.¡± As a result, he had to join Valentina for a second dinner. After that, he had to vomit some out because he ended up eating too much that evening. CH 212 Final Briefing In the dusk sky of the frozen planet, countless warships fly off leaving blue trails behind them. One could say that it¡¯s the entire force of the Calencian-Valentina army. ¡°¡­¡­Our patrol has spotted the enemy vanguard fleet.¡± Schleer solemnly said in the conference room onboard the [Radiant]. ¡°We estimated that they will arrive in this system in less than a day. We believe that they are fully willing to engage us so we will use everything we have to combat them.¡± Schleer sweeps her eyes around the conference room and brings up the map of the Galea system. All of the important commanders of this fleet have gathered in this room. Even Valentina and the others who usually operate from the [Prussia] are here as this is the final briefing before the battle starts. ¡°First of, we will establish a line of defense here in the satellite orbit of Galea-E.¡± ¡°We are going to fight them at the orbit?¡± As expected, a question was immediately raised. So far, their engineers have been doing various preparations on the surface of Galea-E. Fighting the enemy in the orbit might render their preparations useless so Schleer immediately acknowledged the query. ¡°Yes. Unfortunately, the number of defense equipment on the surface is limited. If we make our stand on the planet¡¯s surface from the start, we fear that the enemy might separately descend on the planet and take them out one by one.¡± ¡°Our enemy does have an overwhelming advantage in terms of number¡­¡­.if they attack us from all directions then our positions might be easily overrun.¡± ¡°Exactly. That¡¯s why we need to intercept their advance in space and pretend to withdraw to lure them into a trap.¡± ¡°It was quite a disaster when we were ambushed from all directions back on Leboir. I see, that¡¯s reasonable.¡± The one who raised the question was convinced but Saki pulled the sleeve of Kisei¡¯s jacket with a difficult expression. ¡°But in space, the number difference will affect us even worse right. Is this really going to be okay?¡± ¡°About that¡­¡­..I guess we have no choice but to do our best?¡± There are only a few small satellites floating in the orbit of Galea-E so they have nowhere to hide. In other words, they can not use guerrilla tactics in the upcoming battle. On such battlefields, their only choice is to take the enemy head-on so obviously, the side with inferior numbers will be forced into a disadvantageous position. ¡°Hmm¡­..we have all 4 Heavenly on this side. A little difference in number is no big deal.¡± Said Eleanor as she brushed up her hair. Her expression is full of confidence but knowing that she¡¯s a little disappointing in the head, Saki shrugged her off with an awkward expression. ¡°Well, in terms of quality, we might be slightly more advantageous I guess.¡± ¡°That¡¯s not all. With them here, we will probably have a big advantage on morale too you know.¡± Diaroze pointed that out with a grin. With her gaze still fixed on Schleer, she also continues in a small voice that won¡¯t disturb the briefing. ¡°Nored used the strength of the 4 Heavenly as a propaganda tool to boast its national power. And all of a sudden, they all turned against them. Kukuku, this is going to be fun you know¡­¡­..!¡± ¡°Your terrible personality really shows you know¡­¡­.¡± Liren muttered while stifling her yawn. On the other hand, Diaroze did not get angry and just shrugged that off with a smirk. ¡°Well, anyway. This operation won¡¯t succeed if we can¡¯t buy some time in space. As Master said, we will have to do our best.¡± ¡°Buy time¡­¡­.?¡± According to Schleer¡¯s words, this operation should be about luring the Noredian fleet into their kill zone. There¡¯s no need to buy extra time for that. When Kisei cocked his head in doubt, Diaroze snuggled to him with a meaningful smile on her face. ¡°Kufufu, actually, we have a hidden plan you see.¡± ¡°Somehow, I¡¯m getting an extremely bad feeling about this.¡± The full extent of the plan is now shared with the pilots like Kisei as a measure to prevent info leaks¡­¡­¡­however, he did remember how Diaroze requested pure fusion warheads, a type of weapon that¡¯s highly destructive in the earlier meeting. He doesn¡¯t know what she intends to use it for but one thing he¡¯s sure of is that it must be something outrageous. ¡°I don¡¯t know what you¡¯re trying to do but¡­¡­just what do you want us to do out there?¡± ¡°It¡¯s simple. All you have to do is stall the enemy until you receive the signal.¡± Saying so, Diaroze looked up. She then continues speaking while her gaze looks like she¡¯s recalling something nostalgic. ¡°Using a Zenith¡¯s high maneuverability to fly around the battlefield and shoot down the enemy commanders while disrupting their formation. You¡¯ve already done something like that back in both Leboir and Sensterra right?¡± ¡°I see. So we just have to do what we did to you right.¡± ¡°Umu. If I have to make it simple then that¡¯s exactly it.¡± Hearing that reply, Saki crossed her arms and exhaled. ¡°Interesting, let¡¯s do it.¡± CH 213 The Invasion ¡°They are not here yet huh¡­¡­¡± Inside a Calencian striker floating in the darkness of space, a young pilot muttered to herself. It has already been a while since she arrived at the designated position. There was a report that the enemy vanguard fleet had advanced into the system. However, due to the enemy¡¯s jamming their search equipment was rendered almost useless. Because of that, they have no idea when the enemy will launch their attack. ¡°I don¡¯t think it¡¯s possible but they are not going to ignore us and bypass this system entirely right¡­¡­.¡± ¡°Ha, there¡¯s no way right.¡± One of the pilots belonging to the Valentina faction replied. The Calencian pilot frowned and glanced at the striker flying at her side. It was a [Jetta], a striker model their enemy is using but it has a white stripe marked on its characteristic crimson paint. An attempt to differentiate their striker from the enemy. ¡°If they ignore us then we will be able to attack them from behind. In the first place, with the number advantage they have, taking us on directly would be way more advantageous for them.¡± ¡°Well, that¡¯s true¡­¡­¡­¡± Still, having to wait for their enemy to attack without knowing when they will come is putting quite a heavy pressure on their side. If she just stays quiet and waits then the pressure alone would be too overwhelming. With a sigh, the Calencian pilot starts looking around. Around them was a starry sky like a jet-black cloth dotted with glowing beads, and behind them was a planet that looked like a giant snowball¡­¡­.Galea-E. It¡¯s a mystical sight but such a thing is already common for the soldiers of a space-faring civilization. That¡¯s why it¡¯s not nearly enough of a distraction to dispel their anxiety. ¡°What, getting cold feet?¡± Asked Valentina¡¯s pilot in a teasing tone. As a former Noredian pilot, she has more experience on the battlefield than her Calencian counterpart. Perhaps because of that, she can ask such a question in a seemingly nonchalant tone. ¡°¡­¡­I¡¯m not.¡± ¡°You don¡¯t have to act tough you know? If you are scared then you can just hide behind me after all. Hahaha¡­¡­¡± ¡°Y, You little¡­¡­..!¡± The Calencian pilot immediately snapped but she stopped herself when she saw a photo taped to the console of her cockpit. It was a picture of the Calencian pilot together with a weak-looking young man who¡¯s smiling shyly next to her. The two had their arms wrapped around each other¡¯s shoulders and they seem to be close. ¡°¡­¡­.Hmph!¡± ¡°What, how boring.¡± Valentina¡¯s pilot clicked her tongue and expressed her disappointment. Perhaps she was also overwhelmed by the pressure. That¡¯s probably a given since no soldiers can stay calm when they are facing an army three times the size of their own. ¡°I have to survive this and go home! I don¡¯t have time to bicker with you!¡± ¡°Wait, you have a man waiting at home?¡± ¡°Obviously!¡± The Calencian pilot boastfully answers. On the other hand, Valentina¡¯s pilot had a terribly fed-up look on her face. That¡¯s unsurprising since she¡¯s currently single (has been for a while). In the first place, she wouldn¡¯t join in with the rebels if she has a boyfriend or a significant other back home. ¡°Tsk!¡± Incomparable to her earlier one, this time her tongue clicking has a lot more emotions packed in it. In reply, the Calencian pilot exhaled with satisfaction. ¡°I¡¯m going to get married when this war is over, you know. Do you want me to send you an invitation?¡± ¡°Y, You, don¡¯t get carried away¡­¡­..!¡± Valentina¡¯s pilot was about to retaliate but suddenly a warning sound echoed inside their cockpits. They instantly ready themselves and grip their control sticks. [[Multiple heat sources approaching.]] ¡°All strikers, Break! Break!¡± At the warning from the AI, the commander tensely commanded the pilots to perform a hard turn. In a hurry, all pilots pull their control sticks and accelerate at full throttle. A few seconds later, countless crimson beams cut through the jet-black space. They came from warship-class blaster cannons. Although it was not precisely aimed at them, the shots were calculated and fired at their position from a long distance¡­¡­¡­.However, the incoming bullets were too numerous. A moment later, several explosions rise on the battlefield. ¡°Ugh, damn it, they finally decided to show up huh!¡± Valentina¡¯s pilot used complex and skillful evasive maneuvers to avoid the incoming particle bullets that are flying toward them seemingly at random. There, she saw the Calencian striker whose pilot she just talked to earlier fly by. Her eyes reflexively followed it for a bit, then¡­¡­ ¡°¡­¡­.!¡± It was hit by an extra-thick beam that pierced through its armor in an instant. A little later, a big explosion followed. However, in the vacuum of space, there was neither a shockwave nor the sound of explosion. It was a sad, soundless death. Valentina¡¯s pilot clenched her teeth so hard that they almost made a breaking noise. ¡°A large number of masses detected! It might be the Noredian main fleet!¡± ¡°A large number of strikers sighted! All strikers move to the intercepting position. [All weapons Free]!¡± The sudden report from the radio dragged her back to the battlefield. Now is no time to mourn the dead. With a bitter expression, Valentina¡¯s pilot stepped on the foot pedal. CH 214 First Move ¡°They are here¡­¡­¡± Schleer bitterly muttered on the bridge the Calencian flagship, the [Radiant]. She sits in the old command seat and stares at the schematic of the battlefield displayed on the large LCD monitor. An overwhelming number of red glowing dots are surrounding a group of blue dots which represent their side. ¡°As we expected, their number is overwhelming. They came at us with everything from the start huh.¡± ¡°However, we still can not confirm if the mass we detected was the enemy main fleet or not. It¡¯s likely that the enemy main fleet is still on standby in the rear, Your Highness.¡± Solana, who was at her side, gave her opinion. Information is being relayed to the HQ in real-time but judging from the enemy¡¯s skills, equipment, and coat of arms, what they can confirm right now is that their force is currently engaging the enemy noble army. In other words, the enemy has only sent in their disposable soldiers. Even if they repel this wave, the enemy elites would be left unscathed. ¡°I don¡¯t want us to engage the enemy vanguard directly like this though.¡± While groaning to herself, Schleer impatiently tapped the armrest with her fingers. She then pulls out a resin bottle from the cup holder and takes a sip of the water inside. ¡°Tell the troops to continue intercepting their advance and slowly move back. Our first objective is to buy time, avoid damage to our side as much as possible.¡± ¡°Yes, ma¡¯am!¡± One of the staff acknowledged her command and relayed it to her subordinates. As Saki pointed out during the briefing, taking on a larger army that has also incorporated mercenaries on an empty battlefield with no cover will put them at a disadvantage. If they are not careful, their side will be crushed in no time. ¡°By the way, what about the time? At which point should I guide the enemy to that location?¡± For this operation, their strategy is to lure the enemy¡¯s main force into the kill zone at a specific timing. Moreover, that specific timing is fairly tight to pull off. ¡°¡­¡­.ETA 11 hours and 23 minutes, Ma¡¯am.¡± ¡°¡­¡­¡± In response to the report, Schleer averted her eyes away with a cramped expression. After all, even after deducting the time for their reentry into the atmosphere of Galea-E, they will have to endure the enemy attack for quite a long period of time. ¡°So half a day huh, I see¡­¡­..¡± Schleer growls while rubbing her chin. Various plans are swirling in her mind but none of them seemed to be very effective for them to hold out that long. At this rate, their side will suffer fatal damage before they can even move on to the second stage of the plan. ¡°Can I say something?¡± While she was wondering what to do, Diaroze called out. She¡¯s sitting in a temporary seat in the corner of the bridge but her presence looked as imposing as though she¡¯s sitting on a throne. ¡°I will allow it.¡± Despite being former enemies, Diaroze has received almost complete trust from Schleer. Besides, with her being the greatest commander among Schleer¡¯s allies, she¡¯s the most qualified to help her when Schleer finds a situation she can¡¯t control. That being said, some of the staff members still have a clearly bitter look on their faces¡­¡­ ¡°How about forming a unit with Tersis and Eleanor as the lead and having them perform reconnaissance-in-force on the enemy position? If we can locate the enemy¡¯s main force then we should be able to cut down on their offensive.¡± ¡°Are we going to have the Melemheim and Fafleta fleets separate from the enemy now?¡± The enemy fleets also include those from Tersis and Eleanor¡¯s houses. These houses had already made a secret agreement with them to switch sides. Naturally, if their allies suddenly turned against them shortly after the battle started, even for the powerful Noredian army, chaos would spread through their ranks. The damage they would suffer would not be insignificant. ¡°I was hesitating on when I want them to make a move but it would certainly be better if they do it before things get confusing huh.¡± After tapping her armrest several more times, Schleer agreed. With the intense jamming rendering their communication with the two houses impossible, they originally planned to dispatch a messenger to signal them after the battle started¡­¡­¡­.. Moreover, with Tersis and the others as the lead, it would not be impossible to break through the enemy vanguard troops. ¡°Very well, form a unit to break through the enemy line. We will focus the members around Tersis-san and Eleanor-san and have our reserved force escort them.¡± ¡°Your Highness, should we not also include someone from our side to show them our sincerity?¡± ¡°Right, I planned to go with them myself when the time comes but¡­¡­.¡± Schleer glanced at her elderly chief of staff. The old woman sternly shakes her head in silence. After all, no matter how this will benefit their side, it is too early for the commander herself to go out to battle. ¡°Let¡¯s have my sister accompany them inside Lt.Makishima¡¯s [Dainsleif]. If we attach Kisei-san as her escort then there should be nothing to worry about. In truth, Schleer wanted Kisei to standby in a safe place but with this much difference in numbers, she has to use everyone she can. After all, it is still true that Kisei is an extremely powerful piece she can mobilize. Fortunately, she can trust in the ability of the 4 Heavenly. Even though breaking through the enemy line will definitely be dangerous, she can relax to some extent knowing that they are with him. While regretting the fact that she can¡¯t go with them, Schleer quickly made her decision. ¡°Advance our battleships forward and provide covering fire for them. Make sure that our troops on the frontline were notified.¡± CH 215 Good Luck Charm ¡°It¡¯s finally our turn huh, seems like this will be a tough fight isn¡¯t it.¡± In the cockpit of [Ex-Caliburn], Kisei was saying that with a joyful voice. With a few touches on the console panel, he¡¯s performing a final check before the sortie. He¡¯s done many exercises with this new striker but this will be his first real battle with it. Since he doesn¡¯t know what kind of problem will pop up on the battlefield, he can¡¯t be too careful about it. ¡°You are the most reliable for this kind of mission, Master. Normally, a mission to break through the enemy line is supposed to be a bad idea though¡­¡­.¡± Diaroze replies while helping with the final check from the back seat. She was on the bridge until a while ago but if Kisei is going to sortie then she has no other choice but to tag along. After all, the collar on her neck would automatically detonate if she was too far away from him. ¡°But if we can do this then it will give us an upper hand. With our situation, we can not afford to spare anything. I¡¯m sorry that I have to put your life in danger¡­¡­.¡± With a deep sigh, Diaroze gently stroked Kisei¡¯s hair. Her expression seemed somewhat bitter. Perhaps she has some regret about putting Kisei into a supposedly dangerous operation. ¡°Taking risks is nothing new right. It will be fine. I will show you.¡± ¡°Hmm, as expected of the man who defeated me. How reliable.¡± That¡¯s not what she wanted to say but with Kisei who has performed many miracles for the Calencian army, his words were just too convincing. Being the victim of the miracles he performed, Diaroze could only smile bitterly at him. ¡°My Lord.¡± Suddenly, a voice called out to Kisei. The two immediately look at the cockpit hatch which was left open. There, they found Tersis standing in a Calencian army pilot uniform. The shining adamantine bodysuit tightly hugged her figure, a highly suggestive design. ¡°My apology for interrupting you at such a busy time.¡± She said that and apologetically lowered her head. While fidgeting with her crimson hair, her face was slightly red. ¡°It¡¯s fine but¡­¡­.do you need something?¡± Normally, if you want to talk to another pilot in a situation like this then connecting the communication line would be enough. There¡¯s no need for her to come over herself. ¡°We are about to sortie so¡­¡­.how do I say this, I¡¯d like to ask for a good luck charm.¡± ¡°A good luck charm?¡± ¡°Yes, Um¡­..something that can rouse up my fighting spirit.¡± A battle maniac like her probably doesn¡¯t need such a thing. Even if they are in a dangerous situation, Tersis is the kind of woman that would happily leap out and fight. Unable to make sense of this, both Kisei and Diaroze look at each other. ¡°¡­..anyway, what kind of good luck charm are you talking about? Can you be more specific?¡± ¡°A, A kiss. To the lips¡­¡­..¡± ¡°¡­¡­..¡± The cockpit was instantly filled with awkward silence. Tersis started fidgeting even more and her face grew even redder. Seeing that Diaroze let out a deep sigh. ¡°It seems you¡¯ve been training her well huh. Can¡¯t you do the same for me as well?¡± ¡°No way¡­¡­.¡± In Diaroze¡¯s case, it felt more like he was the one being trained so he retorted with a frown. After all, just earlier he was (almost forcibly) taught how to use a whip. ¡°W, Well, don¡¯t worry about it¡± In any case, right now he can¡¯t afford to kick Tersis out of the cockpit. Also, fortunately, the crew around them are also moving about busily to prepare for the sortie. They shouldn¡¯t have enough leeway to pay attention to them. Thinking so, Kisei stood up and beckoned to Tersis. ¡°Th, Thank you, My Lord!¡± Tersis replied in an elated tone before leaping inside and hugging him. In the same momentum, she also stole his lips. ¡°¡­¡­.¡± Naturally, considering the TPO, she didn¡¯t stick her tongue in or use her saliva. However, she seems to be pretty excited already so some of her salivae ended up sticking to his face. They stayed like that for about a minute but since it was embarrassing, Kisei tried to push her way. Tersis ignored that and continued to enjoy his lips but with a merciless hand chop from Diaroze, she unwillingly separated herself from him with a terribly dissatisfied look on her face. ¡°Seriously, you really are a dog in heat. It will be hard to discipline her later you know.¡± Tersis glared at Diaroze for her sarcastic remark but she soon returned her eyes to Kisei. ¡°My, My apology. I was¡­¡­¡± Seeing Tersis feeling ashamed of her action, Kisei involuntarily follows up. ¡°I also like kissing you so you don¡¯t have to feel bad, Tersis.¡± His words shook her spine and a cloudy breath spilled from her mouth. Seeing her like that Diaroze smiled. ¡°What are you getting all excited for over a kiss. Seriously,¡­¡­..once this battle is over, you will get to do even more amazing things that would make a kiss never enough for you again you know?¡± ¡°E, Even more amazing¡­¡­.!¡± As though that has never occurred to her before, Tersis intensely stared at Kisei. It was a sensual gaze that¡¯s unthinkable from her usual attitude. While his body started to shake a little, Kisei glared at Diaroze. ¡°W, Well, it¡¯s a normal thing to do when you are married after all.¡± Saying so, Diaroze urged Tersis to leave the cockpit. ¡°If you get that then leave already. If you want that [Amazing something] then you better do your best to protect him okay.¡± ¡°I know that already!¡± Tersis answered with her back straightened and dignified voice. From her current figure, you would think of her as a gallant beauty but since Kisei has already seen her disappointing parts, it¡¯s a bit too late for that. ¡°Sorry for the inconvenience! Farewell!¡± Just like that, Tersis leaped out of the cockpit. Left behind, Kisei sat down on his seat. She really came in like a storm, thought Kisei as his face started to cramp. Without saying anything, Diaroze closed the cockpit hatch. ¡°Master.¡± ¡°What?¡± When he turned around, Diaroze was grinning at him. She then gently placed a kiss on his forehead. ¡°I¡¯m also expecting that [Amazing something] after this too you know.¡± ¡°¡­¡­..I¡¯ll do my best.¡± With a wrinkle formed between his brows, Kisei answered in a tired voice. Half seriously, he started thinking that even if he does survive the battle, he might not survive his bedtime afterward. CH 216 Breaking Through the Enemy Line 1 After finishing their last checkup, Kisei and the others were guided to the launch deck by the crew. The ride boosters were prepared at the catapult in the center of the deck. The support equipment reminiscent of a tireless bike is indispensable for this kind of operation where they need increased maneuverability and operation range. ¡°Launching permission granted. Please initiate the launching sequence.¡± Following the instructions from the flight control, they straddle their strikes on the ride boosters and the AI informed that the link between their strikers and the boosters was established. ¡°That¡¯s quite a lot of luggage.¡± Diaroze muttered while glancing at a large container attached to the rear of the ride booster. It was made from synthetic resin and lightweight alloy, a common container for transporting munitions. However, Diaroze wasn¡¯t told what was inside. ¡°It¡¯s spare ammunition and photon sabers! Even the strongest aces wouldn¡¯t be able to put up a fight without ammo after all.¡± Instead of Kisei, the one who answered was the chief mechanic. With this being the [Ex-Caliburn]¡¯s first real battle, she was on standby in the communication line just in case. Convinced, Diaroze nodded and replied. ¡°So you did take lessons from your battle with me huh. Certainly, if you want a chance to strike this man then it would be when he ran out of bullets.¡± ¡°Back then I had to fight waves after waves of reserved units until my ammo ran out after all¡­¡­..¡± Recalling the past, Kisei let out a small sigh. That was quite a tough operation for him. The fact that the woman who put him through that is now sitting inside the same striker really made him think that fate is such a mysterious thing. ¡°Not just this one, I heard that the escort unit will also carry similar containers too. It seems that Her Highness wants Kisei-san to make full use of those as well.¡± ¡°I can¡¯t thank her enough for that.¡± Rather than being stranded without any supply, being able to get support from those around you would be much better. Naturally, Kisei has enough confidence that he can put up a performance that can match the extra weight they have to carry. With a grin, Kisei squeezes the control stick. ¡°Ready to launch.¡± In response to his voice, the floor behind their ride booster rose up. It was a device called a blast deflector. Its purpose is to deflect the exhaust flame from the thruster. ¡°Roger. Launch deck evacuation completed. Course clear. Powering catapult. All green, ready when you are.¡± Hearing that, Kisei silently activated the thrusters of both [Ex-Caliburn] and the ride booster, spilling blue flame behind them. ¡°Hokuto Kisei, Taking off.¡± At the same time he said that, the catapult activated and with great momentum, the striker was launched out of the ship. With the intense G attacking his body, Kisei let out a small groan. He has done this kind of launching numerous times already but it still hasn¡¯t changed the fact that it still takes a heavy toll on his fragile body. ¡°¡­¡­¡± Seeing that, Diaroze silently shut her eyes. For a Vuld like her, this much G doesn¡¯t even make her flinch. The difference in their physical strength was clear. She does enjoy a good suffering at Kisei¡¯s hand but she never wants to see him suffer. ¡°Phew.¡± Still, that intense G only lasted a moment during the launching sequence. Upon entering the cruising state, Kisei let out a heavy breath. ¡°It seems our frontline is having it tough huh.¡± Kisei muttered as he looked at the scene displayed on the monitor in front of him. From his position, he can see red and green beams flying past each other with explosions occurring occasionally. The faint thoughts he can pick up from there through the i-con system were burning into his brain. It seems that there have been a lot of casualties in the frontline already. ¡°Our mission is to break through that place. Can you do it?¡± ¡°Who do you think you are talking to.¡± ¡°Right.¡± With a light smile, Diaroze shifts her gaze away from him. Her sight was directed at their wingman who departed after them. Next to them was the [Dainsleif], a striker covering itself with its characteristic chrome yellow extra armor. And to their left and right, they are being escorted by 2 strikers with a strange design that they have never seen before. ¡°Kukuku, those are some interesting striker designs aren¡¯t they? Huh? Tersis, Eleanor.¡± ¡°Hmph! This is only temporary okay!¡± Yes, the two strikers were piloted by Tersis and Eleanor, the leader of this operation. Their strikers¡¯ exteriors are covered with spare parts from dummy units to disguise their presence. Thanks to that, both [Van Wolf] and [Parfeel] have now taken quite bizarre and messy appearances. ¡°If we want to use the Melemheim and Fafleta fleets¡¯ betrayal as our chance to launch a surprise attack then we have to hide mine and Lady Eleanor¡¯s presence until the last minute. There¡¯s no other way.¡± Tersis said that but her voice was still filled with dissatisfaction. Their strikers now look extremely ugly and the extra weight from the dummy exterior also slows them down. If she has to be honest, she wants to get rid of them right this instant. ¡°B, But can you really fight like that? I want us to prioritize our safety first, you know.¡± Said Frea who is (forced to) accompanying them as an ambassador from Calencia. She¡¯s now riding with Saki inside the [Dainsleif]. Naturally, since she mainly works in logistics, going to the frontline is very scary for her. ¡°Rather, why do I have to ride on this one? If possible, I want to ride with Kisei instead though¡­¡­.¡± ¡°You think 3 people can fit inside a narrow cockpit like this!?¡± Diaroze unintentionally retorted in a loud voice. Although [Ex-Caliburn] was remodeled to be a two-seater, the space inside is not that large. Besides, packing two people on a single-seat striker would still be better than jamming three people into a two-seater. ¡°We will get you there safely so please stay still, Your Highness! If you don¡¯t then you might get thrown outside you know!¡± It seems that Frea couldn¡¯t sit still inside the cockpit so Saki had to reprimand her. ¡°Uuu¡­¡­.why is this happening to me¡­¡­..¡± She usually stays back in the rear but this time she was out of luck as she had to go out to the frontline herself. With her face deep blue, Frea let out a deep deep sigh. CH 217 Breaking Through the Enemy Line 2 The battleships of the Calencian-Valentina allied force advanced toward the frontline. No matter how strong Kisei¡¯s group is, against such a strong army breaking through will be no easy task. That¡¯s why they are moving into a position to provide covering fire for them in order to create a temporary gap in the enemy¡¯s line of defense. ¡°We will commence a suppressive fire at point E368 to support our advance unit. All battleships prepare to fire.¡± ¡°Setting target, point E368. Range 580. Ammunition set, particle bullet.¡± Following Schleer¡¯s command, the commander of each ship quickly instructed their crew members. The turrets of each ship rotated with a dull noise, aiming their thick barrels at the center of the enemy vanguard fleet. Their aim is to suppress the enemy and they have already factored in that the enemy will take evasive maneuvers to avoid the line of fire. They did not aim for any specific ship. ¡°All turrets ready to fire.¡± In the tense atmosphere, Schleer glared at the monitor in front of her. She then raises her right hand and swings it down. ¡°All ships commence fire.¡± ¡°First salvo, FIRE!¡± A salvo of particle bullets containing enormous amounts of energy was fired from the battleships¡¯ turrets. The numerous rays of light take the shape of arrows and race toward the enemy fleet at near light speed. Even with their rough aim, shooting such a salvo into a crowded warzone would cause some damage. The strikers that were near the line of fire had their armor bubbling over from the heat and exploded while the destroyer that couldn¡¯t evade in time was broken in half. ¡°Damn it, they brought out the battleships!?¡± ¡°Evasive maneuver! Quick! Even if it¡¯s a fluke, we will crash if any of those hits us!¡± The enemy vanguard fleet which was subjected to such firepower was thrown into a temporary state of confusion. Both their strikers and destroyers started to spread out like spiderlings escaping their nest. However, that¡¯s but a small area in their vast battlefield. The Noredian ships that were not in the line of fire still had their composure and started commencing a counterattack. ¡°Deploy the anti-ship striker corps. The enemy main force has come out to the front, this is our chance.¡± The Noredian army still has a lot of reserve forces. The strikers that were on standby immediately equipped themselves with anti-ship weapons and launched out from their ships one after another. Their target is naturally the Calencian flagship, [Radiant]. ¡°Enemy strikers approaching from point 345, 20 degrees above. 120 of them.¡± ¡°Leave the interception to the escort fleet and our strikers. Make sure to keep us away from the enemy battleships¡¯ line of fire.¡± ¡°Maintain fire on the enemy fleet, ready the anti-aircraft weapons!¡± ¡°Ready anti-aircraft weapons.¡± The enemy sent a lot of strikers their way but they still haven¡¯t done enough to create an opening for their advance unit yet. Right now they will have to endure the enemy assault. The destroyers and AA cruisers immediately positioned themselves around the battleships, using themselves as a shield against the incoming enemy strikers. ¡°Open fire! Do not let the enemy get close to Her Highness¡¯s ship!¡± The turrets of the escort fleet immediately aimed up and fired. Green arrows of light flew toward the enemy striker corps. However, the enemy promptly took evasive maneuvers and only 3 of them were shot down. ¡°Like hell those bumpkin cannons are going to hit me!¡± A Noredian pilot scorned. However, her advance was stopped by one of Valentina faction¡¯s pilots. It is a confrontation between 2 [Jettas]. To distinguish friend from foe, one side has a big white stripe painted on it. ¡°Sorry, can¡¯t let you pass here!¡± ¡°Damn it! You traitor scum!¡± The Noredian pilot clicked her tongue and avoided the beams from her enemy¡¯s blaster rifle. However, while she was doing that, a [Vil] flew in and thrust its longsword toward her. She tried to have her [Jetta] parry it with its photon saber but she couldn¡¯t make it in time. Just like that, the crimson armor plate was cut through. ¡°Fuhahaha! First one¡¯s mine!¡± The pilot of that [Vil] was Viscountess Bozes, a Noredian aristocrat who switched sides during the battle of Sensterra Prime in exchange for a kiss from Kisei. ¡°You must be here too [Wicked Star]-dono. Please look upon my gallant figure¡­¡­..!¡± Shouted Viscountess Bozes. Her lust couldn¡¯t be masked by her expression. It seems she¡¯s trying to distinguish herself here in order to use her achievement to approach Kisei later. Because of that ulterior motive, her morale was extremely high. And perhaps every single one of them shares the same thought, the pilots here are moving very well. The interception corps led by Viscountess Bozes was successful in stalling the enemy strikers. ¡°They are doing great huh.¡± Seeing their performance on the battlefield, the captain of a Calencian new battlecruiser [Clover] muttered with a grin. The captain was worried about the teamwork between Calencian troops and the traitors from Nored but so far, they are doing well cooperating with each other. [Clover] is one of the best ships Calencia has to offer in terms of anti-aircraft battle. It was fitted with 12 triple-barrels 15cm compound turrets and a high-performance radar along with the best fire control system they have. Naturally, as the captain of such a ship, she can not afford to fall behind her former enemies. That¡¯s why she decided to open fire as well. ¡°Provide covering fire for our strikers! Switch the shell to HE round, set it to AA fuse.¡± ¡°Switching to HE round, AA fuse.¡± The 15cm compound turrets of the [Clover] were loaded with HE rounds. Unlike the particle bullets they¡¯ve been using until now, this time they are firing physical ammunition. ¡°Set target, Track No.37-12! Main turrets, commence fire.¡± ¡°Commence fire!¡± A large number of high explosive shells were fired from the turrets with fierce momentum. The bullet speed is much slower than the particle rounds they used earlier but with their enemies already so close to their position so the captain judged that the physical rounds would hit their targets just fine. She was not wrong. The HE rounds detonate midair creating multiple fireballs in the jet-black space. One of such fireballs hit a [Jetta] that was targeting Viscountess Bozes. With its armor shattered by the explosion, the [Jetta] exploded after a brief moment. ¡°HoHou! Those Calencians do have some good shots huh¡­..!¡± Viscountess Bozes smiled. And after praising her ally, she moved on to find her next prey¡­¡­. CH 218 Breaking Through the Enemy Line 3 Due to the effort of Viscountess Bozes and the members of the escort fleet, the Calencian battleships have successfully provided suppressive fire for their advance unit. The Noredian troops deployed on the frontline have retreated back to avoid the battleships¡¯ line of fire and it is now the perfect chance for them to attack. ¡°CHARGE!¡± With a manly shout, Kisei accelerated at full throttle. Using the ride booster, his striker immediately flew forward at blinding speed. Saki, Tersis, and Eleanor, as well as 16 other elite pilots also dash forward in a formation. ¡°SOMETHING IS COMING!¡± ¡°IT¡¯S THE ENEMY ZENITHS, SOMEONE INTERCEPT THEM!¡± Although the enemy number has thinned, it is not like the opening was completely void of resistance. The enemies that have survived the earlier salvo from their battleships are firing them with their anti-aircraft weapons. ¡°LIKE HELL THAT WILL HIT ME!¡± Kisei fiercely shouted and readied his blaster rifle while performing evasive maneuvers. Unlike your average bike, a ride booster does not require its rider to have both hands on its handle to maneuver. ¡°You are not going to use your new mega blaster rifle?¡± Asked Diaroze while she was scanning the radar screen. Right now Kisei is using his old 8.5Mw blaster rifle, the one he has on the [Caliburn Revive] instead of the mega blaster rifle they repurposed from Eleanor¡¯s striker. ¡°It would be a waste!¡± ¡°That thing has a longer range so I think it would be safer for us to use it though.¡± Diaroze wants to safely snipe the enemy from outside their range. However, Kisei doesn¡¯t even consider such a conventional strategy an option. With no hesitation, he fired his blaster rifle and the [Jetta] that was about to fire at them with its long barrel blaster rifle was disabled with its engine destroyed. ¡°Did you say something about range?¡± ¡°¡­..it¡¯s nothing, my mistake.¡± In a striker battle, she has no place to add her input. Recalling how Kisei is in battle, Diarzoe shrugged. Meanwhile, their exchange did not interrupt his shooting. He continues to casually evade the enemy shots and return fire, taking the enemy striker out one by one. The sight was the meaning of the saying ¡®one shot-one kill¡¯ (TLN: No one died tho) ¡°Wonderful!¡± Watching his performance, Eleanor shouted him praise. Her voice also has a mix of the feeling of relief that she has him as her ally. After all, the overwhelming battle prowess he showed in their past battles is still fresh in her mind. ¡°I can¡¯t afford to lose either!¡± With that said, she fired the heavy machine gun on [Parfeel]¡¯s right arm. It¡¯s the same heavy machine gun model Schleer has on her [Mistilteinn]. Because she intends to hide her identity, for the time being, she is concealing the [Parfeel]¡¯s original weapons. A heavy recoil rocked the cockpit of the [Parfeel] as a red trail of tracer bullets flew into space. The 47mm shells rushed into a platoon of [Jettas] which were charging at them, disrupting their approach. Then with their movement stopped, Eleanor uses the long barrel blaster rifle in the left hand to snipe them one by one from a distance. ¡°Lady Eleanor, do not forget to conserve your ammo. You often go trigger-happy at the enemy and get carried away after all.¡± ¡°Anyone would seem trigger-happy to you! Tersis-sama!¡± Eleanor replied with a fed-up expression. After all, Tersis is the type of person that fly out into battle with only a sword. It¡¯s nice that she will never experience running out of bullets but when they are straddling on a ride booster like this, fighting in close quarters would be difficult so she would not be able to show her real ability. ¡°At least carry a carbine with you!¡± ¡°What, if it¡¯s with my skill then¡­¡­..¡± With a grin, Tersis accelerated forward, leaving a trail of blue flame behind her [Van Wolf]. The ride boosters they are using are of a general model but coupled with the thruster from a top-of-the-line Zenith, the speed she can exhibit is not something that a common [Jetta] can keep up with. Just like that, Tersis went straight into the enemy platoon. The [Jettas] tried to intercept her with their blaster rifles but she avoided all the shots with minimal movement. Then, as she flew by one of them, she cut it down with her longsword. ¡°How¡¯s that?¡± ¡°Shooting them down with a blaster rifle is way more faster!¡± ¡°What did you say¡­¡­.!¡± It seems that Tersis was upset at that comment. Meanwhile, seeing their casual exchange which is totally unsuitable for a battlefield, a smile just floats on Kisei¡¯s face. ¡°Are they usually like that?¡± ¡°Well, yeah. In exchange for their strength, their coordination just flew out of the window. You know how many stomachaches they gave me when I tried to make them cooperate with each other?¡± Diaroze¡¯s answer seemed terribly real to him. With a bitter smile, he glanced back at their unit. After all, when Tersis and Eleanor are rampaging in front of them, Saki who should have been with them was strangely quiet. ¡°Saki, you good?¡± Saki¡¯s [Dainsleif] is just following quietly behind them. Occasionally, she would shoot her submachine gun to provide suppressive fire but her movement is strangely tamer than usual. Seeing that, Kise asked in worry. ¡°I¡¯m fine.¡± Saki replied with a somewhat fed-up tone. ¡°But Her Highness Frea¡¯s not.¡± ¡°I¡¯m, I¡¯m sorry. It¡¯s just, this is my first time on the frontline¡­¡­¡­¡± Frea¡¯s voice was shaking a little. Frea is on board the [Dainsleif] as they need an ambassador from Calencia¡¯s side to show their sincerity to the Melemheims and the Fafletas. Still, it¡¯s a little unreasonable for someone who mainly handles logistics like her to be sent out to the frontline in a fierce battle. ¡°It will be fine. I¡¯m here with you.¡± ¡°Thank you¡­..Uuu, I¡¯m so sorry, for being such a pathetic woman I mean¡­¡­¡± Hearing Frea¡¯s self-deprecating comment, Kisei let out a small smile. Her self-deprecating tendency and how she can get disheartened by herself are similar to Schleer. It¡¯s a little rude but it made him think that they are really sisters. ¡°Well, we have other escorts too¡­..just fly safe for now Saki. We will handle the enemies ourselves.¡± ¡°Sorry, I will leave it to you.¡± Although she agreed, he could tell from her voice that she wanted to go out and rampage too. CH 219 Breaking Through the Enemy Line 4 10 minutes after they charged in, the effect of the initial suppressive fire started to diminish and groups of enemies were gathering around them. ¡°Dealing with this many small fries sure is annoying isn¡¯t it¡­¡­!¡± Eleanor gritted her teeth as she sprayed the enemies with her heavy machinegun. She just does not have the capacity for precise aim when the enemies are coming from all directions. ¡°Can we get rid of these junks already!? It¡¯s so hard to move!¡± Eleanor and Tersis have covered their Zeniths with dummy exteriors to hide their identity. Naturally, they also suffer a decrease in both maneuverability and movement speed because of that. Even for elite aces like them, handling this many enemies with such a handicap is still tough. ¡°If we want the surprise attack to be the most effective then it is still too early to take them off. The best timing would be when we can join up with the Fafleta fleet.¡± Diaroze answers in a calm voice. Aside from scanning for enemies, she literally has nothing to do. Despite being on the battlefield, she simply doesn¡¯t feel that involved with it. At most, she would nudge her control stick a little with her finger while observing Kisei operating the striker with an incredibly precise movement. ¡°Well, you can still purge these things if the situation absolutely calls for it right? It would be putting a cart before a horse if you got shot down before we can meet up with the fleets after all.¡± ¡°H, Hmph! This [Heavenly Thunder] will not be shot down that easily, I will have you know!¡± When her ability was challenged, it was her nature as a Vuld aristocrat to put on a bluff so Eleanor fiercely replied. ¡°I expect no less.¡± Kisei whispered so while avoiding multiple beams flying at them. Despite the tough spot they found themselves in, Eleanor¡¯s morale hasn¡¯t diminished. It appears that her reputation as one of the Noredian Strongest pilots was not for show. While manually turning off the automated lock-on warning alert that has been ringing in the cockpit for a while, he kept shooting down the enemy [Jettas]. Then he took his mind off the enemy strikers that have their abdomens pierced by his shots, he reloaded a new particle magazine. ¡°[Wicked Star]-san, do you need ammo?¡± The escorting Calencian pilots asked in a calm voice. Kisei has been firing his blaster rifle for a while so it¡¯s natural that they would worry about his remaining ammunition. ¡°Yeah, I think it¡¯s about time for a resupply.¡± ¡°Roger that.¡± While evading the enemy¡¯s barrage, the Calencian pilot approached the [Ex-Caliburn]. She then threw the particle magazines bundled in a cable and Kisei easily received them. They did it like it was something very simple but things would not be this smooth unless both Kisei and the pilot are very skilled. ¡°Thanks!¡± ¡°It¡¯s my duty. Well, please leave the ammo to me.¡± The pilot replied in a joyful tone. They were called an escort squad but their job is mainly to provide support for the aces like Kisei. ¡°But how long do I have to put up with this though?¡± Saki asked in a dejected tone. Since she can not fight to her heart¡¯s content because Frea is riding with her, it¡¯s very tough for Saki when they are kept being attacked like this. ¡°We received an encrypted location of the Melemheim and Fafleta fleets. At this pace, we should be able to join up with them in about 30 minutes so just endure it.¡± ¡°Tsk, talk about an unreasonable demand!¡± ¡°Exactly!¡± Saki¡¯s words were in sync with Frea¡¯s half-crying voice. Whenever a bullet flies their way, she would scream like a child. ¡°OHoHoHoHo! How pleasant! Have you already started leaking!?¡± ¡°S, Shut up!¡± Frea replied in frustration. At that moment, a large number of particle bullets flew toward [Dainsleif]. An enemy destroyer has come forward. Although it was a small ship, it was packed with a considerable amount of anti-aircraft weapons. ¡°HIIE!?¡± Frea screamed with a pale face at the barrage of bullets that were coming her way like a shower of light. Saki clenched her teeth and immediately pushed her control stick down to get the [Dainsleif] out of the way. They barely managed to get out of the way and the barrage of particle bullets flew past them into the void. Almost at the same time, Kisei pulled out his mega blaster rifle that was mounted on the back. He then quickly shoots an extra thick beam back at the enemy like a western gunman. The ejected empty cartridges flew out and the extra powerful blaster shot through the thruster of the Noredian destroyer. Unable to maneuver properly, the destroyer flew away while spewing smoke. ¡°Nice! It seems the firepower is enough to take down a destroyer huh.¡± Against a ship, using something like an anti-ship grenade launcher is more conventional but compared to a beam, a missile is much slower. An ability to take out the enemy ship with a blaster beam sure is something that he is grateful for. ¡°Leaving cruiser-class aside, that thing is powerful enough to take out destroyer-class and smaller vessels you know!¡± The former owner of that weapon, Eleanor, boastfully said so with a smug expression. ¡°Hou! That¡¯s nice, very nice!¡± Ki, Kisei, you are pretty wild on the battlefield aren¡¯t you¡­¡­..¡± Seeing him fight, Frea whispered while wiping cold sweat on her forehead. After all, compared to how he is normally, he seems like a completely different person now. ¡°Well, as expected of the top ace of my army¡­¡­..that being said, it feels like I¡¯m a prince in fairy tales isn¡¯t it¡­¡­.¡± When it comes to stories about a brave knight protecting others in Vuld¡¯s common sense, it¡¯s a given that there would be a prince by her side. Recalling the face of her brother, Frea can only awkwardly smile. CH 220 Breaking Through the Enemy Line 5 ¡°Still, they are pretty persistent aren¡¯t they.¡± Diaroze said with a fed-up look. Her gaze is on the tactical map displayed on the console screen. ¡°We should already have got through the area where the enemy vanguard fleet was guarding too¡­¡­.¡± ¡°It would be a major victory for them if they can shoot down even one Zenith-type after all. The lower-rank aristocrats must be pretty desperate for achievements. Well, they will only trouble the commoners they dragged along in their army though.¡± Saki said as she avoided the beam coming from behind her. However, being attacked continuously like this would apply pressure on even the strongest ace. In other words, she wants to let loose a little. ¡° Then how about we counterattack? The pursuers will be here soon. We stand a pretty good chance of winning after all.¡± No matter how big the Noredian army is, they do not have the numbers to cover the entire battlefield. They have broken through the enemy line and the place they are at is relatively safe with the only thing they have to worry about being the enemy pursuit from behind. ¡°Hmm, that¡¯s not a bad idea.¡± Diaroze made a calculation in her head while looking at the tactical map. It was to see how much time the enemy reinforcements would take to get here if they launched an attack on their pursuers. ¡°Umu, Master, can I count on your ability here.¡± ¡°Roger that!¡± Although her tone was nothing like a slave as usual, Kisei didn¡¯t pay it any mind and stepped on the pedal. The [Ex-Caliburn] jumped off its ride booster and flew backward. ¡°Leave the control of the ride booster to me. You can go wild to your heart¡¯s content.¡± The ride booster can be remotely controlled using laser communication so Diaroze directed it somewhere far away so that it won¡¯t get damaged in battle. ¡°A big game is coming our way! Shoot it down!¡± The low-rank aristocrat who is the commander of their pursuers shouted. Despite being an aristocrat, the machine she¡¯s piloting is just a modified mass-produced striker. She knows that she stands no chance in single combat so she intends to overwhelm Kisei with a superior number. Kisei nods to himself then casually holds up his blaster rifle. The moment he pulled the trigger, the green particles were condensed and shot out toward his enemy. It flew far beyond its supposed effective range and pierced the engine of the commander¡¯s striker which was cautiously positioned in the rear. ¡°The Lady is down!¡± ¡°How did she get sniped from that range! We are not even fighting [Heavenly Eye]-sama right!¡± Her subordinates were plunged into confusion. Using that chance, Tersis and Eleanor who also abandoned their ride boosters, rushed toward them. ¡°Know your place and retreat already!¡± ¡°Uwahh!¡± Although they could not show their true power due to the dummy exterior, the two are still former top aces of Nored. They don¡¯t even break a sweat handling a platoon of poorly trained common soldiers or two. In no time at all, several enemies fell prey to their beams and longsword. ¡°Kukukuku, they are pretty wild. Master, you can just sit back you know?¡± ¡°No way. I need that best score after all!¡± As the [Wicked Star], he can not sit back and let his comrades have all the fun. Thinking so, Kisei immediately blew his thrusters and joined the two. ¡°DAMN PATCHWORK MACHINE!¡± A [Jetta] pilot shot her blaster rifle toward [Ex-Caliburn] while ridiculing its mixed appearance. Most of her shots flew off to who knows where but one happened to rush straight toward the [Ex-Caliburn]¡¯s head. However, Kisei wouldn¡¯t just let that hit. With a flowing motion, he pulled out the photon saber with its left hand and parried it back, disabling the [Jetta] that shot it by destroying its engine. ¡°THE HELL WAS THAT!?¡± Unlike the soldiers of the Calencia Expeditionary fleet who have fought against the [Wicked Star] before, only a few know that he¡¯s siding with Calencia this time. That¡¯s why when such an outrageous thing was shown, chaos immediately spread among the Noredian pilots. ¡°THAT THING CAN¡¯T POSSIBLY HANDLE A BARRAGE! SURROUND IT AND FOCUS FIRE!¡± No matter how ridiculous parrying a beam with a photon saber is as a feat, the number of beams he can parry should still be limited. Following the direction of one smart pilot, the Noredian strikers began to form a formation around [Ex-caliburn] to surround it. ¡°You think I will sit still and let you do that¡­¡­.!?¡± However, Kisei doesn¡¯t allow that. Using the acceleration from his thruster, he immediately plunged himself into the middle of their formation. Naturally, the enemies fired at him but he avoided everything with slight movement while hitting back those that he couldn¡¯t avoid with his saber. ¡°Uwah! IT¡¯S COMING!¡± ¡°I will intercept it! Keep firing!¡± One [Jetta] pulled out a two-handed sword and rushed in to intercept [Ex-Caliburn]. The surrounding [Jettas] all concentrate their fire on his path to slow him down. It seems that they at least want to lessen his momentum even if it is by a little. ¡°I like your guts!¡± However, Kisei did not slow down at all and simply avoided the shots with precise control. Seeing that, the pilot who plunged in to intercept him ferociously smiled. ¡°I will stop you here!¡± ¡°Do it if you can!¡± Kisei avoided the downward swing of the two-handed sword with a paper-thin distance. At the same time, he fired the head-mounted machinegun at the [Jetta]¡¯s head. The 12.7mm rounds raced toward their target but the pilot reacted quickly and blocked them with the shoulder guard. Small caliber bullets can¡¯t pierce through a striker¡¯s armor plate so it simply chips the shoulder guard a little. ¡°This one must be a knight. A commoner pilot wouldn¡¯t be able to move this well.¡± While listening to Diaroze¡¯s comment, Kisei pointed the muzzle of his rifle at the [Jetta]. The [Jetta] that lost its posture due to the earlier defensive maneuver hurriedly covered its abdomen with the two-handed sword. ¡°Kuh!¡± However, that was only a feint. Kisei put away the rifle and unleashed a powerful kick at the [Jetta]. The [Jetta] managed to block the blow with its sword but with the power output of a Zenith, it was blown away. ¡°You¡¯re wide open!¡± Using that chance, Kisei performed a somersault using the kicking momentum and fired the anti-ship grenade launcher mounted on the back. Firing it like this is unconventional as it usually requires a fire control system but the missile simply finds its way toward the [Jetta]¡¯s abdomen and blows it apart. ¡°AHH! EL-SAMA!¡± The surrounding [Jettas] screamed but this is not the time they should be worrying about others. Kisei fired his rifle and they were shot down one by one. From his perspective, they were like sitting ducks. ¡°T, There¡¯s no way we can win against that¡­¡­.¡± ¡°Retreat, RETREAT! SAVE YOURSELVES!¡± The pursuit unit whose number was cut down in a blink of an eye immediately lost its morale. They hurriedly retreated and naturally, Kisei and the others did not give chase. After all, their goal is only to repel them. ¡°That did it huh. Now we can join up with the Melemheim fleet without worry.¡± Diaroze exhaled in relief and said so but Kisei grinned and hold up his rifle again. ¡°No, we have newcomers.¡± ¡°What!?¡± Diaroze looks at the radar in a hurry. However, the screen was covered in noises due to the enemy jamming. She can¡¯t possibly search for any enemy in such a situation. However, Diaroze knows about Kisei¡¯s 6th sense. Giving up on the radar, she turned in the direction Kisei was looking. There, among the glowing stars, she can see the bright exhaust flame of thrusters racing toward them from a distance. ¡°That direction, it doesn¡¯t seem they belong to the vanguard fleet we broke through earlier huh¡­¡­.¡± Tersis muttered to herself in a small voice. CH 221 The Wibel Hounds 1 The enemy reinforcements have closed in. They are pretty fast. Running is no longer an option and their only choice is to intercept them. Thinking so, Kisei silently reloads a new magazine to his blaster rifle. ¡°They felt off.¡± Almost at the same time that he muttered to himself, Eleanor started blasting with her long barrel blaster rifle. However, the enemy simply avoided her shots and did not return fire. Seeing that, Diaroze eyed the enemy with suspicion. Their mono-eye also gives out a fiery red glow and the enemy¡¯s gray iron armor is something that she has never seen before. ¡°Model specification¡­¡­[Varlona]? That¡¯s not a Noredian model. Then who?¡± ¡°Can you hear me? This is Makina O¡¯Brien of the Wibel Hounds.¡± As though to answer Diaroze¡¯s question, a cold voice rang out from the speaker. The transmission came through the open channel. ¡°Mercenary huh.¡± Kisei muttered while biting his lips. The name she gave him was one he has heard of before. ¡°This is [Wicked Star], Hokuto Kisei. Loud and clear¡­¡­.what do you want?¡± ¡°I came to make good on our promise¡­¡­¡­the other small fries can leave. Our business is with the [Wicked Star] alone.¡± ¡°Small fry!? Did you just call me a small fry!?¡± Eleanor immediately got enraged at the provocation. While frowning at her scream, Diaroze quietly tapped Kisei¡¯s shoulder. ¡°What is she talking about?¡± ¡°I, I don¡¯t know¡­¡­.¡± ¡°¡­¡­.well, it¡¯s probably something boring like revenge for when you beat them in the past anyway.¡± Seeing that Kisei is also completely clueless, Diaroze dropped the topic. After all, if the enemy doesn¡¯t care about anyone but him then that¡¯s probably the most likely reason someone is challenging Kisei anyway. ¡°But, this feeling¡­..I can tell that they are very skilled. Even with all of us, it will take some time to take them down you know.¡± The [Varlona] model the enemies are piloting is a high-end mass-produced model manufactured from Terra. With a pilot being a veteran mercenary, it should be able to put up a decent fight against even the 4 Heavenly like Tersis. Naturally, it¡¯s not that they will lose but¡­¡­right now, their priority is not here. ¡°Fumu, that would take too much time huh. Master, can you take them by yourself?¡± ¡°Who do you think I am?¡± Diaroze grins at the reliable reply. ¡°Alright, Eleanor. If they are willing to let you go then you should. This whole battle is hanging on this mission so we can¡¯t afford to waste time here you know.¡± ¡°M, Muhhh¡­¡­!¡± Knowing that Diaroze is correct, Eleanor could only groan bitterly. ¡°If I stay then you will let the others go right?¡± ¡°Yeah.¡± The woman who named herself Makina affirmed. Kisei ponders on her answer for a moment while stroking his control stick. ¡°Aren¡¯t you looking down on us too much? You plan to gang up on Kisei while we¡¯re gone or something?¡± Saki asked with a clearly hostile tone. Behind her, Frea who¡¯s sitting in the extra seat also nodded. ¡°Isn¡¯t that kind of tactic cheap even for a mercenary?¡± ¡°Right! That¡¯s not womanly at all!¡± A short-tempered person would immediately snap but none of the mercenaries bought into that. The only reply they got was a dry laugh from Makina. ¡°Kuku, say whatever you want. We are hounds, not some proud wolves. Using numbers to take on an opponent that we can¡¯t win against alone is a given.¡± It appears that they truly set their sights on Kisei. And it¡¯s also clear that they have witnessed his ability before. ¡°Whatever, I will just fight you instead! Kisei and the others can move to the objective!¡± ¡°That¡¯s¡­¡­.¡± Kisei himself doesn¡¯t recall what kind of promise it is that he made with the enemy but when he¡¯s challenged directly like this, there¡¯s no way he would leave it to Eleanor or anyone else. ¡°No, I will do it. Leave me and go!¡± ¡°Muh, so this is one of those hot-blooded warrior situations huh.¡± Tersis commented with a slightly jealous tone. There was not even a single shred of worry in her voice. After all, she has complete trust in him when it comes to combat. ¡°Lady Eleanor, we are continuing our mission.¡± ¡°Muuuuh!¡± Eleanor was extremely dissatisfied but just as Diaroze said, they do not have time to waste. Gritting her teeth, she let out a deep deep sigh. ¡°It can¡¯t be helped¡­¡­.let¡¯s go!¡± As though to shake off her desire to stay, the [Parfeel] immediately accelerated and flew off. Saki, Tersis, and the others in the escort unit also follow. Just as they declared, the Wibel Hounds did not give chase. ¡°¡­¡­..very well.¡± Makina nodded and moved her striker forward. Her striker is the only one that is different from the others and it appears to be a Zenith-type. ¡°I, Makina O¡¯Brien, [Lastochka], and my 24 subordinates challenge [Wicked Star] to a duel.¡± ¡°You made it sound like a single combat but at this number, it¡¯s nothing but a lynch right¡­¡­¡­¡± Despite the fact that she has done the same thing before, Diaroze muttered that in an astounded tone. Kisei couldn¡¯t help but smile bitterly at her but he clears his throat and gives them a reply. ¡°Hokuto Kisei, [Ex-Caliburn], accepted your challenge!¡± CH 222 The Wibel Hounds 2 Almost at the same moment he accepted their challenge, the [Varlonas] spread out around [Ex-Caliburn]. They were all equipped with machine guns and immediately opened fire on him. ¡°Mmm, all of them have a machinegun huh¡­¡­!¡± Unlike blaster weapons, machineguns that fire metal shells cannot be parried back with his photon saber. This probably was a specific strategy against [Wicked Star] as unlike blaster weapons that shoot charged particles, these bullets travel at a far slower rate in space. ¡°We¡¯ve done our research on how the [Wicked Star] fights. You will not find an opening to take us down so easily.¡± ¡°Nicely done¡­..!¡± While avoiding the storm of shells, Kisei groaned. However, his fierce smile is still the same. With his teeth exposed in a wide smile, he started firing his blaster rifle at the nearby [Varlona]. It tries to avoid his shot but it couldn¡¯t get away in time and its right leg was blown off. However, losing a leg won¡¯t completely disable a striker. Even while its hydraulic oil and propellant are leaking from its damaged leg, the [Varlona] returns fire with its machinegun. ¡°You shifted the axis? Nice!¡± He used the information from the i-con system to shoot at the enemy with foresight. His target was actually the enemy¡¯s engine but the enemy pilot was so skilled that she could avoid that deadly blow. ¡°We Wibel Hounds are an elite mercenary band! Did you like that?¡± ¡°So you¡¯ve even looked into my personality huh!¡± While avoiding the barrage from the enemy machineguns with a small movement, Kisei replied with a grin. However, Diaroze who¡¯s sitting in the back is already sweating cold. She thought that he would be able to handle them easily since they are mercenaries but their opponents are much more skilled than she thought. ¡°Th, These guys¡­¡­aren¡¯t they on Imperial Guards level? They are actually this skilled?¡± ¡°They might be even better you know.¡± ¡°Gununu, damn mercenaries!¡± Despite her betrayal, the Imperial Guards who reported to her directly were her elite troops. It¡¯s natural that she would have some qualm seeing mere mercenaries rival them in terms of skills. ¡°I¡¯m also a mercenary too though.¡± With a bitter smile, Kisei shot another beam at the same [Varlona]. If he can¡¯t take them down in one shot then he judged that he needs to take down each one carefully. However, once again, his opponent barely avoided his shot. ¡°Tough one aren¡¯t you!¡± Since his opponents returned fire with dozens of times more firepower, he found himself in a tough spot. All of them are moving in the same direction and continue to avoid his shots and with shells flying from all directions, the main monitor of [Ex-Caliburn] looked as though he¡¯s in the middle of a sea of aurora. Counterattack would be quite difficult in such a situation. Even if he managed to exploit a momentary opening, the enemy would avoid his shots albeit barely. ¡°Not bad, not bad at all!¡± With a smile on her face, Makina rushed in with a rifle. The moment her striker¡¯s mono-eye glow red, a high caliber armor-piercing shell flies toward [Ex-Caliburn]. Her rifle is the type that shoots physical projectiles instead of a beam. Their preparation is very thorough. ¡°Muh!¡± As expected of an elite mercenary, Makina¡¯s shot was extremely skillful. Although he managed to avoid the first shot, he had to cut the second one with his saber. The metal AP round was caught by the energy blade and instantly evaporated into metallic steam. ¡°Nice one¡­¡­!¡± If he hadn¡¯t replaced his saber with a high-end one then the amount of heat would not be enough to completely evaporate the shell. This time a bead of cold sweat floated on his forehead. However, it¡¯s not like he¡¯s going to be on the receiving end forever. With a flowing motion, he shot his rifle at the [Lastochka] that was about to fire its third shot. ¡°I knew you would do that! Now, Do it!¡± However, the green bullet was blocked by a large shield on the left arm of [Lastochka]. Then, following Makina¡¯s command, two [Varlonas] equipped with a shield and a short sword perform a pincer attack on him. ¡°Guh!¡± Kisei immediately abandoned his rifle judging that the firepower was not enough to take down [Lastochka]. Instead, he pulled out the mega blaster rifle and shot it at a [Varlona] that rushed him with their shield. However, there was another one. He can¡¯t deal with it with his rifle but Kisei managed to catch its shortsword with his photon saber. The energy blade and metallic short sword grind against each other sending sparks flying. ¡°Now! All units deploy missiles!¡± Makina gives her order with a fierce smile. The [Varlonas] that were firing their machineguns at a distance immediately deployed a large number of missiles from the pods on their back. With all of them combined, they¡¯ve launched over a thousand missiles at him. ¡°H, Holy shi¡­¡­.!¡± Diaroze screamed with her face deep blue. Even Kisei himself wouldn¡¯t be able to avoid this number of missiles. It was truly a grave situation for them. CH 223 The Wibel Hounds 3 Over a thousand high-mobility missiles flooded toward them. Evasion is impossible, Defending is also not an option¡­¡­¡­truly a desperate situation. Seeing the horde of missiles racing toward him, Kisei let out a small sigh as he was battling the [Varlonas]. ¡°Kuh!¡± If he¡¯s stuck dealing with the [Varlonas], he won¡¯t be able to get away. Kicking off the shield one of the [Varlonas] is carrying, he performed a backflip. He then fired the anti-ship grenade launcher mounted on the back directly at the shield. The large missile shot out and exploded right at the center of the shield, even the sturdiest of armor plates can not stand such a shot. As a result, the [Varlona] lost its shield along with its arm and was blown away while spewing smoke. After that, he silently used the wire gun to retrieve the blaster rifle he had thrown away earlier. The motor reeled back the rifle with tremendous force, and now it is back in his hand. ¡°I¡¯ve been waiting for that¡­¡­.!¡± As though he was counting on them to try that, Kisei accelerated forward while rotating the anti-missile laser turrets installed on both shoulders to the back. The speedometer immediately shot to the max and a strong G attacked his body. ¡°Nngggg.¡± The G was so strong that he could start coughing blood but he grits his teeth and withstand it. The missiles immediately started racing after the trail of blue flame emitted from the thruster like a comet tail. On the other hand, Diaroze grew even tenser as no matter how powerful a striker¡¯s thruster is, they can not outrun the missiles. Because of the imbalance of the center of gravity which stemmed from the fact that the [Ex-Caliburn] is a fusion of several strikers put together in a hurry, it began to rattle as it¡¯s accelerating at full speed. Kisei needs to be precise in his control to be able to find it in a straight path. If he loses control then the [Ex-Caliburn] would surely start spinning out of control at high speed. That would definitely spell their end. ¡°A, Are we going to be okay?¡± ¡°¡­..¡± While enduring the full brunt of the G, Kisei couldn¡¯t afford to reply. Still, he managed to nod back at her. The missiles are approaching them from behind. The anti-missiles laser turrets detected that and automatically shot their circuits with low¨Cpower lasers, making them detonate by themselves after a brief pause. Still, the number of missiles that are racing toward them far exceeds the number it can handle. A number of them popped like popcorn but the effect was like a drop in the ocean. ¡°ARE WE REALLY GOING TO BE OKAY!? I¡¯M SUPER SCARED YOU KNOW!!¡± Although Kisei couldn¡¯t even open his mouth due to the G, Diaroze started to shout in panic. While feeling envious of her internally, Kisei kept flying at full speed. For the Wibel Hounds, the only striker they have that can catch up with [Ex-Caliburn] is the [Lastochka]. However, it is not flying toward them. This means that Makina intends to defeat him with a superior number. ¡°¡­¡­Alright!¡± Eventually, the missiles that were homing toward [Ex-Caliburn] began to collide with each other. Since they are tracking the same target, it¡¯s natural that their paths will overlap. The missiles exploded one after another and caused a chain explosion. In less than 30 seconds, most of the missiles were destroyed by friendly fire and the rest were easily handled by the anti-missile laser turret. ¡°Phew¡­¡­¡± With the threat gone, Kisei slowed down. His breath smells slightly of iron. It was good thatThe [Ex-Caliburn] has a much stronger inertial control mechanism than the [Caliburn-Revive]. If not for that, Kisei might already be dead from the crushing G alone. ¡°Y, You were aiming for that¡­¡­? .you almost scared me to death.¡± Diaroze growls at him with a frown. Her expression was saying something like, is he always this reckless? ¡°Master and I are supposed to be surrounded by our children and grandchildren and die of old age okay! You shouldn¡¯t do such a reckless thing anymore you know!¡± ¡°But you agreed to let me handle them alone right?¡± ¡°I didn¡¯t think that they were this good! It was a mistake, I¡¯m sorry, okay!!¡± Diaroze was screaming while wiping her cold sweat. Perhaps she was truly scared earlier. Then, with her hand still slightly trembling, she stroked Kisei¡¯s head. ¡°But with this, we probably won¡¯t have to worry about the missiles anymore.¡± High-mobility missiles are relatively small but the amount that each striker can carry is still limited. Given the number they fired at them, they should have exhausted almost all of their missiles already. A half-baked attack with a moderate number of missiles wouldn¡¯t be able to fell Kisei so the Wibel Hounds¡¯ decision to fire everything at him was not wrong either. However, if he can survive it then it will allow him a chance to turn the table on them. Diaroze took a deep breath and slowly exhaled. ¡°It¡¯s time for counterattack right. Go kick their asses! Master!¡± ¡°I really don¡¯t know who¡¯s the master between us anymore though!¡± Kisei let out a bitter smile at her usual haughty attitude. But as she says, the Wibel Hounds are only equipped with weapons suited for short-range battle. And as a result, from flying full speed to escape the missile, there¡¯s now a considerable distance between them and the enemies. This is obviously their chance. ¡°Well, let¡¯s do it!¡± While controlling the [Ex-Caliburn] to pull out the mega blaster rifle with its left hand, Kisei grinned. CH 224 The Wibel Hounds did not chase after the [Ex-Caliburn] earlier and the distance between them and Kisei was quite wide. Kisei did not let that chance go and immediately prepared himself with a blaster rifle in the right hand and a mega blaster rifle in the left. Both sides are locked in a staring contest. ¡°To overcome even that, as expected of the [Wicked Star]!¡± On the other hand, Makina has a fierce smile on her face instead of being upset at how he managed to avoid the barrage of missiles. They seem to have been studying Kisei¡¯s extraordinary combat prowess so they must have already anticipated that he might be able to overcome their strategy. ¡°Switch to formation C! Be wary of hit and run!¡± ¡°Roger that!¡± The Wibel Hounds prepare to intercept him with an organized movement. In the distance, Kisei pushed toward them at full throttle. Blue exhaust flame spewed out from the thruster as he accelerated toward the enemies. ¡°If one shot isn¡¯t enough then how about this!¡± The enemy can still barely avoid the beam from his rifle but this time he followed up with the mega blaster rifle a beat after and a [Varlona]¡¯s engine was shot through. The [Varlona] has taken the full brunt of the Noredian-made cannon and was broken in half with the upper and lower halves blown away in two different directions. Obviously, that much firepower was overkill. ¡°We couldn¡¯t even touch him when he was piloting that old model! Whose bright idea is it that gives him that monster to pilot!¡± One of the hounds grumbled with a stiffened expression. The cockpit of the [Varlona] that got hit seems to be intact but seeing such firepower unleashed upon them still sent shivers down their spine. ¡°Don¡¯t falter! If even one of us remains then it is our victory!¡± The Wibel Hounds spread out to avoid being hit but they would not be able to support each other if they are too far apart. In that case, all Kisei needs to do is to shoot them down one by one. They should not have broken their close formation. ¡°Umu, you are attacking them from outside their range right. Go shave them off one by one.¡± Diaroze haughtily said as she saw that they can snipe at the enemies from a safe distance. Kisei couldn¡¯t hide his smile, wondering where her earlier upset attitude had disappeared to. ¡°That would be the best way to guarantee our victory but¡­¡­¡­.well, let¡¯s see if they will let us do that.¡± That said, their enemies are no amateurs. On the contrary, they are elite. Being careless and they might even turn the table on them¡­..while he was thinking to himself, he kept shooting a few [Varlonas] in the same way he did earlier. The enemies are struggling to close the distance but Kisei skillfully utilizes the high-performance thruster to keep them at range. The [Varlona] is certainly a high performance model but it does not have nearly enough thrust power as the [Ex-Caliburn] so they can not possibly catch up. ¡°Muh.¡± There, Makina rushed toward him with her [Lastochka]. Since it¡¯s a Zenith, its speed can rival the [Ex-Caliburn] so as expected, Kisei can¡¯t shake her off. ¡°She¡¯s taking her chance huh? Kuku¡­..starting to get impatient aren¡¯t we! Shoot her down!¡± ¡°No, that¡¯s¡­¡­.¡± Kisei¡¯s intuition is telling him that Makina is not rushing him without a plan. The feeling he received from the [Lastochka] was still surprisingly calm and collected. ¡°She has some kind of play huh?¡± Kisei muttered. There, the [Lastochka] fires its rifle. The AP round was accelerated to the extreme by the electromagnetic force and raced toward the [Ex-Caliburn] with amazing accuracy. Kisei evaded the shot with a paper-thin distance and reflexively countered with his blaster rifle but his shot was easily blocked by a shield. ¡°Ugh!¡± Furthermore, she also evaded the follow-up shot from his mega blaster rifle. As expected, even her shield can not withstand a shot from that thing. Using their exchange as an opening the [Varlonas] closed the distance and opened fire with their machine guns. ¡°Ugh, I see¡­..these mongrels, they are using their leader as a decoy huh!¡± Diaroze shouts while hatefully glaring at the incoming tracer bullets. It seems that their strategy is for the [Lastochka] to contest the [Ex-Caliburn] to create the chance for the [Varlonas] to strike. Makina herself seems to devote herself to buying her subordinates time and keeps to suppressive fire. However, even with that, her accuracy is still extremely high and her shot would hit him if he started to get careless. ¡°Kuh!¡± If he let himself get surrounded by the [Varlonas] he would be locked in the same formation and fired upon from all directions as earlier. Even Kisei wants to avoid such a situation. He tried accelerating to fly away from the [Varlonas] but Makina prevented that by shooting her rifle to block his path. ¡°This is troublesome!¡± Kisei grits his teeth while groaning. He continues to use the thruster to avoid the enemy bullets but Makina relentlessly pursues him and launches her attack. It was truly like he was being chased by a pack of hounds. ¡°How is it, [Wicked Star]! We Wibel Hounds have evolved!¡± Makina proudly shouted. On the other hand, Kisei let out a small sigh. ¡°Really, you guys are not half bad¡­..!¡± It looks like this is going to be a long battle. Thinking so, Kisei glanced at the remaining ammunition. CH 225 Purge While Kisei was locked in a fierce battle with the Wibel Hounds, Saki and the others who headed to their objective first were also in the middle of a battle. ¡°Damn it¡­¡­¡­as expected, this is not going to be easy huh!¡± While shooting down the approaching [Jetta] with her submachine gun, Saki bitterly grumbled. Saki and the others chose a route that¡¯s clear of enemies but it is still impossible for them to completely avoid detection. Eventually, the Noredian detected them and they are now forced to fight their interceptors. ¡°That might be a Zenith but what can you do with only 3 strikers!?¡± A [Vil] in with a longsword, its tri-camera gleaming at them. It was a decisive and crisp assault. Saki can tell from her instinct that she¡¯s fighting a veteran pilot. ¡°Kuh!¡± She can¡¯t intercept the [Vil] in time. Because of that, Saki immediately decided to abandon the ride booster. After that, she let go of the submachine gun and readied the [Dainsleif] to draw its sword. ¡°Take this!¡± She performed an electromagnetic slash at the [Vil] but it managed to catch that with its longsword before her attack could reach its abdomen. The longsword was cut through but Saki¡¯s blade just barely grazed the [Vil]¡¯s armor. ¡°TOO SHALLOW!¡± The [Vil] abandoned its damaged sword and pulled out a photon saber stored on its back. However, due to the motion of the electromagnetic slash, the [Dainsleif] is unable to defend itself. ¡°Tsk!¡± Reflexively, Saki pulled the trigger. The head-mounted machine gun spewed bullets on the [Vil]¡¯s thick armor. However, 12.7mm bullets are too weak to pierce through a striker¡¯s front armor. ¡°Oh, can¡¯t let you do that!¡± Just before the blade of the photon saber reached the [Dainsleif], the [Vil] was hit by a beam from above. After a beat, the shot caused a small explosion and the debris slammed on the armor of the [Dainsleif]. ¡°Thanks!¡± ¡°You owe me one!¡± Eleanor replied happily with her long barrel blaster rifle in hand. Perhaps it should be expected of one of the 4 Heavenly, even in this turbulent battlefield, Eleanor did not let her guard down at all. Since she unintentionally held her breath earlier, Saki breathed out in relief. ¡°¡­¡­.sorry, Saki-chan.¡± Frea muttered from the special seat. Her expression was extremely haggard. ¡°It, it¡¯s okay, that was my fault earlier. Your Highness Frea doesn¡¯t have to feel bad at all¡­¡­¡± Saki hurriedly said as she thought that Frea is blaming herself because Saki can¡¯t go all out with her here. However, Frea shakes her head sideways. ¡°It¡¯s, it¡¯s not that¡­¡­¡± ¡°Not that?¡± ¡°M, my pee, it leaked a little.¡± Saki¡¯s expression looked as though she had just taken a mouthful of something extremely disgusting. ¡°NO ONE WOULD KNOW IF YOU DON¡¯T SAY IT SO PLEASE JUST STAY QUIET!!¡± The pilot suit is completely airtight. The cockpit is equipped with a toilet but it is rarely used and the suit also has a diaper function in case you are locked in a long battle. Even if you peed yourself, no one would notice it if you don¡¯t say anything. ¡°I, I see¡­¡­.hahaha¡­¡­..¡± With her face deep blue, Frea let out a dry laugh. ¡°I¡¯m glad I didn¡¯t ride with Kisei¡­¡­.¡± Nothing would be more embarrassing than peeing yourself in front of her own fiance. With her eyes a little dead, Frea turned to look at the main monitor while feeling relief that at least she did it in front of someone of the same sex. ¡°Geez!¡± Saki wants to say more to her but she can¡¯t afford to do that right now as the cockpit was filled with a lock-on warning alert. She reflexively performed an evasive maneuver and a beat later, several thick beams flew past the place the [Dainsleif] used to be. ¡°Mid-range artillery huh!¡± When she looked for where the enemy fired at them from with a sensor, she detected multiple heat sources a distance away. They are not within the range of the weapons she has on [Dainsleif]. Their only option is probably to avoid their shots and close in. ¡°It would be bad if we let them snipe at us like this. What do we do?¡± ¡°Leave them to me.¡± With a longsword in one hand, Tersis responded. Like it was soaked in blood, the dummy exterior of the [Van Wolf] was covered in oily substances. She has already cut down more than ten strikers here. The [Van Wolf] fully accelerated and approach the enemy position like a shooting star. They tried to intercept her using large-caliber cannons but Tersis casually avoided everything and their shots simply disappeared into the void. ¡°Uwawawa! Get away!¡± ¡°Hmph, naive!¡± With its monstrous instant acceleration, the [Van Wolf] quickly arrived at the enemy position and started cutting down the enemy [Jetta-Cannones], the Noredian specialized model of [Jetta] which was modified to focus on providing fire support. The [Jetta-Cannones] tried to keep [Van Wolf] away by using their machine guns at it but with Tersis¡¯s maneuvering skill, it was meaningless. Within a few minutes, all [Jetta-Cannones] were cut down. ¡°With just a sword? What¡¯s up with that¡­¡­..¡± ¡°It¡¯s like we are fighting the Heavenly Blade herself¡­¡­..no way!?¡± Although it¡¯s a big universe, there are not that many pilots who only fight with their sword. Seeing Tersis¡¯s performance, the Noredian pilots are looking at the [Van Wolf] with awe and suspicion. ¡°Hmm, I guess it¡¯s about time huh.¡± Although she¡¯s not as sensitive as Kisei, Tersis also felt the turmoil from the enemies. She had her striker disguised to keep the enemy in the dark about the eventual betrayal of the Melemheim fleet but if they are already this deep in then it should be fine to lose that disguise. Thinking so, Tersis glanced at the tactical map. ¡°If it¡¯s here¡­..they should be able to see the signal flare. Your Highness Frea, I suggest we purge the dummy exterior.¡± ¡°Ah, yeah, it should be okay now right?¡± Frea, who was suddenly talked to, replied in a hurry. He is the highest-ranking person here but Frea is merely a logistic officer. It¡¯s only reasonable for her to leave the detailed command to a person who¡¯s used to the field. ¡°Finally! I¡¯ve been waiting!¡± Eleanor, who thinks of the dummy exterior as nothing more than a dead weight, immediately rejoices. With no hesitation, she raised her fist and slammed it down on the purge button on the console. The explosive bolts activated and the dummy exterior covering the [Parfeel] was purged. What came out was, of course, the magenta-colored Zenith she was accustomed to. ¡°!? T, That¡¯s, isn¡¯t that¡¯s the [Parfeel]¡­..!¡± ¡°That¡¯s the [Van Wolf]! Seriously¡­¡­.!?¡± The 4 Heavenly are the symbol of Nored¡¯s strength, it¡¯s natural that they are well known among the soldiers. The strikers that they have seen in numerous propaganda media are now right in front of their eyes. This sent waves of turmoil to the Noredian soldiers. Then, the [Van Wolf] fired a small rocket from its shoulder. The rocket soared up while spewing smoke and burst into a green flash after a few seconds. A beat later, countless cannons opened fire at the Noredian strikers. ¡°W, What!? What was that!?¡± ¡°UWAHHH!¡± The Noredian troops which were suddenly attacked from a direction where their allies were supposed to be immediately screamed. None of them performed an evasive maneuver and a number of strikers were swallowed by the bombardment and exploded. The strikers that escaped that bombardment started flying everywhere as they have no idea where they can escape to. ¡°Umu¡­..there you are, my fleet¡­¡­.!¡± Tersis muttered with a grin. Her eyes proudly turned to the direction of the gunfire. CH 226 Linking up with the Fleet The Noredian fleet was suddenly subjected to fierce gunfire from unexpected directions and is now plunged into turmoil. The gunfire clearly originated from the position of their allies. In this situation where they can not identify the enemy, they have no way to put up a proper fight. ¡°Let¡¯s use this chance to link up with my fleet. The enemy will get back on their feet soon.¡± Tersis pointed in the direction of the bombardment with the tip of her sword before leading the others toward her fleet. Saki nods and accelerates after her. With their enemy trying to evade the gunfire in panic, none of them could afford to intercept their group. Although the fleet is quite far away from their position, the distance can be covered in a blink of an eye with the speed of their strikers. Several minutes later, Saki and the others managed to link up with a large fleet that is centered around 8 big battleships. On the side of each ship is the insignia depicting a sword and a shield crossing over a white lily. ¡°This is your?¡± ¡°Yeah, it¡¯s my fleet. How is it? Quite spectacular don¡¯t you think?¡± Tersis¡¯s tone was very proud. She is the head of House Melemheim, one of the greatest aristocratic houses of Nored. It¡¯s natural that she has control over such a big army. ¡°Th,The Fafleta fleet is also here you know¡­¡­.. Of course, it might not look that impressive when compared to the Melemheim fleet though.¡± While smiling bitterly at Eleanor, Saki looks over the fleet. They seem to be on alert but they do not point their AA weaponry at them. ¡°Every single ship here is our ally? A, Amazing, to think that it¡¯s this big¡­¡­.¡± Frea voiced her admiration. Eight battleships are nothing to sneeze at. Adding to that, aristocrats that possess their own territory usually do not dispatch all of their fighting power to the frontline. After all, they need to station some back home in case the neighboring lords suddenly decide to prey on their territory. In other words, Tersis must have an even larger fleet defending her territory back home. Thinking that far, Frea started sweating since it¡¯s likely that with the two houses combined, they would have a larger fleet than Calencia even before the war started. ¡°My lady, can you hear me? This captain of the [Mephisto], Siraba.¡± There, communication comes from the flagship of the Melemheim fleet. It was a private channel, connected to the [Van Wolf] alone but Tersis operated the console and connected everyone in the data link system. Now everyone in the group can hear their conversation. [She¡¯s my Head Retainer], after introducing her in a playful voice, Tersis cleared her throat. ¡°Loud and clear. Ladies, thank you for coming.¡± Tersis¡¯s tone was deeply emotional. Even though it was the Head¡¯s order, betraying your country with no hesitation is something that requires a great amount of courage. The Noredian fleet did not retaliate so far due to the chaos but soon they will launch their counterattack. After all, House Argarine is not so sweet as to let traitors escape without a fight. ¡°My Lady is scarier than the whole Noredian fleet after all.¡± A casual reply came from the [Mephisto]. As expected of a retainer of a house of warriors, they are quite bold. ¡°Besides, since you are going to get married, perhaps a congratulatory salvo is in order, My Lady?¡± ¡°Certainly.¡± Tersis shyly nodded. On the other hand, Frea and Eleanor quietly puffed up their cheeks. ¡°So¡­..where is your would-be husband, My Lady? I¡¯ve heard he¡¯s the kind of person that would be unrivaled in a striker though.¡± ¡°We were together halfway through but¡­¡­he stayed back to stop the enemy pursuers.¡± ¡°Oh my! Is that the so-called, [Leave this to me and go!] situation?¡± ¡°Exactly.¡± Tersis nodded. ¡°For my husband, there would be no one more suitable right?¡± ¡°I see, I see. I was curious about what kind of person our new master is but¡­¡­to think that it would be such a person.¡± The reason why Tersis still remains single to this age despite being one of the great aristocrats is that she wants to choose her own partner. In her eyes, your typical Vuld male is simply too pathetic for her. It¡¯s a matter of course for her retainers to be curious when she suddenly told them that she wanted to betray Nored for a man. ¡°However, this is no good, My Lady. No matter how strong the Master may be, we are among enemies here. It is possible that the unthinkable can happen. We need to retrieve him at once.¡± ¡°Well, he will probably be fine though.¡± Saki muttered. Certainly, it might seem like a dangerous situation but she just can not picture Kisei losing at all. It was why she agreed to his plan to stay back in the first place. ¡°Catching up with your retainer is fine and all but can you let me do my job soon?¡± Feeling that they are taking their time talking with each other, Frea inserted so with a prickly tone. Her job here is to act as a military ambassador. Also, because she was put through many scary experiences to get here so she wants to get her job done soon. ¡°Ahh, sorry about that. This person is from the Calencian royal family, Princess Frea Henrietta.¡± ¡°My apology, Your Highness. I am Orcus Siraba, a vassal to House Melemheim.¡± ¡°It is a pleasure to meet you. Thank you for coming to my country¡¯s aid.¡± Frea replied in a formal tone ¡°I¡¯d like to perform a formal greeting and deepen our friendship but unfortunately, the situation doesn¡¯t allow us to do that. As you suggested, let us retrieve Hokuto Kisei as soon as possible and join up with the main force.¡± Frea said in a strong tone. The fact that they have betrayed Nored means that they are currently surrounded by enemies. If they don¡¯t join up with the Calencia main force soon then no matter how strong their fleet is, they will not escape unscathed. ¡°Yes, of course¡­¡­.now then, I believe it is time for us to show our worth to our new master.¡± Siraba¡¯s fierce smile can be sensed through the communication. CH 227 The Enraged Empress ¡°Communication from Marchioness Lagia! It appears that their fleet has managed to suppress the R-field.¡± The bridge of the Noredian fleet¡¯s flagship, the [Odercrois], looked very busy as it is the command center of the gigantic fleet. The operators constantly relay the reports from various sections of the battlefield while the officers are hurriedly giving out instructions to each one of them. ¡°What are the results and the damage we sustained?¡± Lying back on the command seat, Empress Villenia Rendar Argarine asked the staff with her folding fan in hand. ¡°We¡¯ve destroyed 2 of the enemy small-size cruisers, 5 destroyers, and one of their medium-sized cruisers, Your Majesty.¡± ¡°Hmm.¡± Although they¡¯ve managed to suppress one area, their result so far is not that good. The Calencians are probably trying to buy time for the time being and withdraw before their side suffers any significant damage. Thinking so, a wrinkle formed between the Empress¡¯s brows. ¡°So, what about the damage?¡± ¡°2 medium-sized cruisers, and 8 destroyers from the aristocratic army. Moreover, one battleship is now inoperable¡­¡­.¡± ¡°AREN¡¯T WE THE ONES WHO SUFFERED MORE DAMAGE HERE!¡± While snapping her fan shut, the Empress shouted in a loud voice. The operator who made the report is now trembling in fear. ¡°THEY ARE JUST SOME BACKWATER COUNTRY AND A BUNCH OF ROWDY REBELS! WHY ARE YOU EVEN STRUGGLING AGAINST SUCH AN ENEMY!¡± That said, the force they put on the frontline is a mix of aristocrats¡¯ armies of various sizes. They are generally in the same state as the enemy so it is unavoidable that they might struggle against the Calencians. However, the Empress doesn¡¯t care about that. She simply felt frustrated that her own army was falling behind some rebels. That point alone was something that she can not tolerate. ¡°Send in the reserve unit! Crush them with number! Anyone who puts up a pathetic fight will be shot from behind!¡± ¡°Your Majesty, we¡¯ve received a report that a small unit consisting of a few Zenith-types has gotten through the frontline. It would be too hasty to send out our reserved force at this time¡­¡­¡± One of the staff nervously reported. Naturally, Kisei¡¯s advance was reported to their HQ. Although a few Zeniths can¡¯t do much to affect the battlefield as a whole, they could be spearheading some kind of enemy strategy. The staff is suggesting that they should keep their reserved force on standby until their enemy shows their hand. ¡°Hmph, what can a few Zeniths do.¡± However, the Empress simply ridiculed the staff¡¯s opinion while pushing out her abundant chest. ¡°They can not win against us in a straight fight so they are probably trying to take my head by sending in their elites. Pathetic.¡± The Empress mockingly smiles at her enemy as she plays with her folding fan. ¡°No matter how good they are, they can not do anything if they run out of ammunition and fuel. No matter what they try, they can not reach this place, Your Majesty.¡± The chief of staff followed up. It comes as no surprise that the [Odercrois] where the Empress is commanding the fleet from is located in the deepest part of the Noredian fleet. Moreover, their position is fortified by an elite escort fleet which serves as an iron wall that no enemy is permitted to break through. ¡°That¡¯s right. In the first place, we are fighting against some hicks here. Why do we have to be so on guard against them? Your one and only job is to show your worth to me, Your Empress.¡± The Empress declared so while slamming her folding fan into her palm. ¡°If you have time to imagine us losing then go and think up a way to crush the enemy faster.¡± ¡°Yes¡­¡­.¡± The staff reluctantly nodded. Naturally, she has more to say but her head might fly off if she¡¯s being too persistent. Even if she has proven herself as a talented staff, her head can still be put under a guillotine if she upset the Empress. ¡°We¡¯ve broken through the E-field! Our vanguard has begun to engage the enemy main force!¡± ¡°Kuku, finally huh. Sure took their damn time.¡± The Empress stood up from her seat at the long-awaited report. Since the start of the battle, the Calencians have skillfully stalled their movement and they could not make much progress. However, the victory is as good as theirs if they can reach the enemy¡¯s main force. Using their overwhelming number, they can crush the enemy flagship and destroy the remaining enemies one by one. After all, their enemies would not be able to move properly if they obliterated their chain of command. ¡°Full Assault! Target the en¨C¡­..¡± ¡°Reporting! The Melemheim and the Fafleta fleets suddenly opened fire on us!¡± ¡°W, W, What!!¡± At the sudden bad news, the Empress¡¯s turned bright red. She has placed the fleets belonging to the houses of the 4 Heavenly on the outer rim because they have failed her but the Empress did not expect them to rebel. ¡°W, What¡¯s going on? EXPLAIN!¡± ¡°T, The details are still unknown! They suddenly fired at us¡­¡­our troops are in a state of confusion and we¡¯ve received no detailed report so far, Your Majesty!¡± The operator that gave the report was almost crying already. After all, she knows what kind of reaction the Empress would have if she gives such a report. ¡°DON¡¯T SCREW WITH ME!¡± Sure enough, the Empress threw her fan to the ground in anger. Her voice sent chills down the backs of everyone on the bridge. ¡°WHY WOULD THEY BETRAY ME! WHAT CAN THEY POSSIBLY BENEFIT FROM DOING THIS!¡± Nored has an overwhelming advantage in this war. Even if their aim is to usurp the throne, their timing just doesn¡¯t make any sense. Moreover, since their fleets are placed at the outer rim, they can not possibly push in to take the Empress¡¯s head. Although both Houses are among the most powerful noble houses in Nored, turning the whole empire into their enemy can not possibly be a good idea. There is no reason for them to suddenly rebel against her here. That was why the Empress was extremely confused. ¡°Have they gone mad!? Damn traitorous fools¡­¡­! FINE, SO BE IT! THE CALENCIANS CAN WAIT! COMMENCE ASSAULT ON THE REBELS!¡± The Empress gave her order in anger. However, their vanguard has already begun engaging the enemy¡¯s main force. If the force in the rear suddenly started chasing a different target now then they will be isolated. However, the enraged Empress couldn¡¯t care less about that¡­¡­. CH 228 A Fierce Fight While the Empress was fuming with anger, the battle between Kisei and the Wibel Hounds is on the verge of climax. ¡°Just four more!¡± Shouted Kisei as he pierced the engine of another [Varlona] with his pile bunker. He has already run out of ammunition and melee has become his only remaining mode of fighting. However, the Wibel Hounds are also running low on ammo. Moreover, since many of them have been shot down, they can no longer afford to suppress his movement with their barrage. ¡°Giving us such a tough time!¡± Despite the fact that she¡¯s done nothing in this fight, Diaroze let out a sigh with a slightly tired expression. It appears that after being consecutively cornered in this battle, she¡¯s mentally exhausted. ¡°As expected of you, [Wicked Star]! You¡¯re truly worthy of our respect!¡± On the other hand, Chief Makina who is supposed to be the one cornered right now has a look of joy on her face. She doesn¡¯t seem to be frantic at all. From the beginning, it seems that she¡¯s already expected their battle against the [Wicked Star] to conclude like this. ¡°We¡¯re gonna lose at this rate, Chief. What do you want to do?¡± ¡°Of course! We fight to the end! We can not afford to disappoint the [Wicked Star] after all!¡± ¡°Disappoint?¡± A curious word came through the public channel but Kisei doesn¡¯t have the time to worry about it right now. The [Lastochka] unsheathed an ax from its waist and rushed toward the [Ex-Caliburn] while dodging the spray from its machine gun. ¡°Mugh!¡± Befitting her position as the chief, her assault was skillful and precise. Kisei caught her ax with the photon saber in his left hand. As the blades grind against each other, the [Lastochka] quickly twisted its body and performed a knee kick to the [Ex-Caliburn]¡¯s abdomen. Using reverse thrust, Kisei avoided the blow with minimal distance. At the same time, he used the bayonet attached to the tip of his rifle to poke back at the [Lastochka]. Makina avoided it by slightly shifting her striker but the blade still managed to scrape off the paint of her armor, sending some rough vibration through the whole striker. ¡°Chief! I¡¯m coming!¡± Following that shout came muzzle flashes. She blasted her rifle without minding the possibility of friendly fire. Seeing that, Kisei immediately kicked off the body of the [Lastochka] and took a distance. A beat after, tracer bullets with fiery red tails cut in between the two strikers. ¡°Damn!¡± Even though she was almost shot, Makina did not try to rebuke her subordinate for that. ¡°Next time don¡¯t warn me and just shoot! You can¡¯t catch the [Wicked Star] otherwise!¡± It appears that this is also part of their strategy. Certainly, machine gun¡¯s small-caliber bullets can¡¯t pierce through a Zenith¡¯s armor plate but a shot like that couldn¡¯t have been made without prior planning. A bead of cold sweat started to trail down Diaroze¡¯s forehead. ¡°What a troublesome bunch¡­¡­.! There will be no end to this if we take our time here! Quickly take them down!¡± ¡°You don¡¯t have to tell me!¡± That¡¯s right. They can not afford to waste time in a place like this. After all, they need to head over to the Melemheim fleet to join up with Saki and the others as soon as possible. Regardless, he needed to reduce the number of enemy strikers first. Chief Makina is a formidable enemy. With support from excellent subordinates, she can buy a lot of time here, or at worst, he might even lose. Shooting down her subordinates first is probably the best course of action here. ¡°Kuh!¡± Makina¡¯s subordinate grit her teeth when she noticed the [Ex-Caliburn] blew its thruster toward her. Her [Varlona] is certainly an excellent striker but its performance is nothing when compared to a Zenith-type. Even if she tries to escape, the acceleration power of [Ex-Caliburn] would eclipse hers. Her only chance is to intercept his charge. Judging so, she pulled the trigger and sprayed her machine gun at the approaching Kisei but the sound of gunfire turned silent in just a few seconds. [[Ammunition Zero]] Her cockpit AI announced in a dry voice. She immediately threw the machine gun away and pulled out the longsword from the scabbard on the waist. She¡¯s readying herself to intercept the [Ex-Caliburn]¡¯s photon saber but suddenly the muzzles on its head flashes, spewing out a large number of bullets toward her. The shot was not aimed at the body but the hand of her [Varlona] that¡¯s holding the longsword. The bullets accurately pierced the joints and the motor and wiring inside were damaged, making the longsword fly away due to the sudden loss of grip strength. ¡°Ugh!¡± Gritting her teeth, she realized that she doesn¡¯t have any way left to resist. At the same moment, the bayonet pierced into the abdomen of the [Varlona] causing the phase transition turbine to stop rotating sending catastrophic vibrations through the whole striker. ¡°Three more to go!¡± ¡°Ugh, there¡¯s no way left! We are going for it!¡± Although she¡¯s piloting a Zenith, Makina doesn¡¯t even think that she can take Kisei with only the support of her 2 remaining subordinates. She has no choice left but to make a bet and go for broke. At the command of Makina, two [Varlonas] charge at Kisei with their machine guns. Following that, the [Lastochka] rushed at him with an ax from above. ¡°They finally lost it huh! This is our chance!¡± Kisei already knew that without being told but he doesn¡¯t complain. Instead, he avoids the bullets and rushes toward the [Lastochka]. ¡°Got you!¡± He then fired his wire gun toward the unprotected body of the [Lastochka]. With the sturdy carbon woven wire and the reeling power of the motor, Kisei swung the [Lastochka] away and unhooked the wire. As A result, Makina¡¯s striker was thrown toward a [Varlona] in the back. ¡°Uwahh!¡± The two strikers collided with the scream from the pilot. But ignoring them, Kisei threw his photon saber at the remaining [Varlona] who was dumbfounded at the collision. Without missing its mark, the beam blade pierced into the belly of the [Varlona]. After a moment the photon saber¡¯s capacitor ran out of juice and stopped producing its blade. ¡°G, Guh¡­¡­!¡± However, without care, Kisei rushed toward the [Lastochka] with his bayonet. Makina was still disorientated from the impact and couldn¡¯t move out of the way. Unable to defend herself, Makina clenched her teeth and prepared for impact but the final [Varlona] suddenly ignited its thruster. It dashed out and got between Kisei and the [Lastochka]. ¡°Tsk!¡± Kisei did not lose patience and pierced the engine of the [Varlona] with his bayonet. It was a brief moment, but Makina managed to use that time to gather herself. She blew her thruster and blew away from the [Ex-Caliburn]. ¡°Now we can have a one on one¡­¡­!¡± Hearing that from Kisei, the corner of Makina¡¯s mouth raised up. ¡°Fine by me, Let¡¯s do this!¡± CH 229 Fan Makina who now has to face Kisei alone immediately started accelerating. With an ax in hand, she rushed in, judging that without her subordinates¡¯ help, she could no longer fight him from a distance. ¡°Good resolve!¡± If she intends to fight him at close quarters then that¡¯s fine by Kisei. He immediately pulled out another photon saber from the chest hardpoint and accelerated toward [Lastochka]. The blade of the ax and the beam blade collided. The [Ex-Caliburn] was pushed back a little due to the ax¡¯s weight advantage. Using that chance, Makina tried to slam her shield at the [Ex-Caliburn]. ¡°Like hell that will hit!¡± However, Kisei kicked off the shield¡¯s surface and avoided the blow, and used the thruster to perform a somersault. He then thrusts the gleaming blade of his bayonet toward the [Lastochka]. ¡°Ugh!¡± Makina blew the thruster and avoided the stab with a reverse thrust. Kisei threw away the blaster rifle while killing the momentum from his own thrust. At the same time, he fires his wire gun and reel in the machine gun of one of the Wibel Hounds that was floating nearby. The moment he grabbed the rugged machine gun, its software automatically started the device installation process but Kisei manually stopped it. Even without the control system, a striker weapon can be fired by pulling its trigger alone. And that¡¯s enough for Kisei who specializes in shooting manually. ¡°The bullets¡­¡­.only 12 left huh?¡± Diaroze let out a cramped smile at the bullet count showing on the magazine. With only this many, they can¡¯t even shoot a barrage at the enemy. ¡°That¡¯s plenty enough!¡± Kisei screamed and rushed toward [Lastochka] with the machine gun in hand. To intercept him, Makina holds up her ax and shield. ¡°No you don¡¯t!¡± With flashes from the muzzle, the bullets hit the ax¡¯s handle and break it. ¡°What!?¡± That¡¯s unexpected even for Makina. While holding back her impatience, Makina blocked the incoming photon saber with her shield. The burning condensed particles are boiling the armor surface which is bubbling into foams. ¡°Hmph!¡± Kisei¡¯s attack did not finish as he kicked off and left the melee distance. In the meantime, Makina threw away her now useless ax and pulled out the photon saber from the leg hardpoint. The beam blade from her photon saber glows blue, contrasting the gray iron surface of her striker. ¡°One more time!¡± While drawing a small curve, Kisei launched another assault. This time, Makina intercepts him with her own saber. ¡°Same old trick!¡± Frustrated, Makina set up for a shield bash as her counterattack. However, Kisei evaded that and shot the machine gun directly at the face of the [Lastochka]. ¡°UwaH!?¡± The main camera was destroyed and the [Lastochka]¡¯s main monitor has gone dark. A moment later, the AI switched the input to the sub camera but by that time the [Ex-Caliburn] has already closed in. With a machine-like growl, a stake is shooting out from his pile bunker. The alloy stake easily pierced the front armor of [Lastochka], destroying its engine. ¡°We can¡¯t even reach your feet after all huh¡­¡­¡­¡± Makina let out a long sigh and weakly leaned back on her pilot seat. She shut her eyes and tapped her cheeks several times before speaking to the wireless microphone. ¡°So¡­¡­did we get a [pass]?¡± ¡°P, pass?¡± What¡¯s she talking about? That was the look on Kisei¡¯s face. ¡°You promised right? An autograph, YOUR autograph. You told us that the next time we meet you will give us one right.¡± ¡°Nn? Ah, AHHHHH!¡± At last, Kisei finally remembered the promise he made to them. He has fought against the Wibel Hounds before. At that time, they asked him for an autograph. He couldn¡¯t be bothered at the time so he only replied with [If we meet again then, sure.] The memory of who or what he fought against is one thing but other than that he rarely remembers anything else that happened during combat. That¡¯s why he¡¯s forgotten all about their promise until now. ¡°Unlike last time, I think we did our best. Was it at least fun enough for you to give us your autograph?¡± ¡°An, An autograph, you fought that hard for AN AUTOGRAPH, are you stupid¡­¡­.?¡± Diaroze looked at the disabled [Lastochka] like she was looking at someone so foolish that it was beyond her comprehension. ¡°Hmm¡­¡­.my [Wicked Star] Fanclub No. is in the single-digit after all¡­¡­. As his fan, that reason is more than enough you know.¡± ¡°Th, There¡¯s a fan club¡­¡­¡­?¡± The person himself never knew of the existence of his own fan club so he started to break out into cold sweats. To be frank, he never wanted to know about such a thing. This is even more true if he has his own paparazzi. ¡°W, Well, if it¡¯s just an autograph you want then I don¡¯t really mind.¡± ¡°¡­¡­¡­YES!¡± Makina makes guts pose with a beaming smile. On the other hand, Kisei stiffened a little and let out a small sigh. ¡°By the way, it¡¯s been on my mind for a while now¡­¡­¡­it seems there¡¯s a strange woman riding with you in the cockpit right. Just who is she?¡± Makina asked as though she just remembered. A striker is normally a single-seat machine. It¡¯s unusual for it to have someone inside its cockpit beside the pilot. ¡°Me?¡± Diaroze grinned at the question. Yes, her grin was extremely evil. ¡°I¡¯m his wife.¡± ¡°Please, that¡¯s not funny.¡± Makina mockingly smiles. However, with an awkward expression, Kisei raises his voice. ¡°Well, uhh¡­..it¡¯s true.¡± ¡°¡­¡­.really?¡± ¡°Yeah, really.¡± As though she just received the news of an idol¡¯s marriage announcement, Makina silently collapsed. CH 230 Retrieval 30 minutes after that, Kisei and the others were retrieved by the Melemheim fleet. The fleet was being pursued by the Noredians but his striker was exhausted by the earlier battle and has to resupply so Kisei landed the [Ex-Caliburn] on the fleet¡¯s flagship, the [Mephisto]. ¡°It¡¯s great that we managed to join up safely but things are going to be tough from now on huh.¡± On the storage deck of the [Mephisto] where the strikers are being resupplied Diaroze, Tersis, and a middle-aged woman in a military uniform, Shiraba the commander of the Melemheim fleet are discussing their course of action. ¡°For the time being, our current objective is to link up with the Calencian main force. No matter how strong we are, we would eventually be exhausted if we stay behind the enemy line like this after all.¡± Says Shiraba while displaying the information on the floor beneath them using her tablet terminal. At the moment, the Melemheim fleet is being attacked by Noredian pursuers. They are flying at full speed but it doesn¡¯t seem like they can shake them off. ¡°Even if you say that, we also have a lot of enemies at the front line¡­¡­.if we just mindlessly push forward then we will be sandwiched between you know.¡± Frea pointed out with a wrinkle formed between her eyebrows. It is what it is, so it can¡¯t be helped that she¡¯s not using her usual carefree tone. Pursuers behind and enemy vanguard in front. Just as Frea said, if they just head directly toward the Calencian fleet, they will eventually get caught in a pincer attack. ¡°What did they send over as pursuers? Depending on that, it might be better if we turn back and take them out first.¡± ¡°It¡¯s a high-speed assault fleet. They have around 10 large-type cruisers on our tail. Moreover, with the number of strikers they are throwing at us, they probably have a striker mother ship a little behind them as well.¡± They have already fended off countless attacks from enemy strikers and destroyers. The fleet may have formed a solid formation to intercept the enemies but those in the center of that formation still can¡¯t help but feel anxious at the enemy¡¯s constant assaults. ¡°If that¡¯s all then we should be able to take them on though¡­¡­.¡± Diaroze ponders their options while stroking her chin. ¡°But it¡¯s also likely that we might be flanked by other enemies while we are in combat. Turning back to fight would be a bad move huh.¡± For the time being, what they should prioritize is minimizing the number of battles they have to fight as they need to avoid exhausting their ammunition and fuel. ¡°What about speed? This fleet is centered around battleships, our speed should be quite good isn¡¯t it?¡± ¡°We have no problem on that side. All 6 battleships we dispatched here are Mephisto-class, the same class as the [Prussia]. Our battleships should be fast enough to compete even against cruisers.¡± ¡°What about the 2 other ships?¡± Diaroze turned a sharp gaze toward Eleanor. Yes, the two remaining ships were dispatched from the Fafleta house, Eleanor¡¯s home. Eleanor was eating an energy bar (a stick-shaped biscuit type combat ration) with both hands holding it like a squirrel. Since her name was suddenly called, she hurriedly raised her face up, the biscuits still stuffed in her cheeks. ¡°Ahh, Uhh¡­¡­I think it will be okay. We are using the Lonvance-class so we should be as fast as a cruiser¡­¡­..we have to compromise on the firepower because of that though¡­¡­¡­¡± Her voice lowered on the latter part but both Diaroze and Shiraba heard her clearly. It might sound a little disappointing but it¡¯s still good to have rather than not. ¡°How compromised?¡± ¡°Three triple barrel 40Mw compound turrets, nine in total¡­¡­¡± Frea¡¯s mouth formed into a single thin line. The main cannon of the Calencian flagship, the [Radiant] is 4 twin-barrel 41Mw compound turrets, eight barrels in total. Although Eleanor said that her ships have to compromise some firepower for speed, the [Radiant] is still slightly inferior in terms of firepower. ¡°Hmm.¡± Seeing Frea like that, Diaroze grinned. ¡°Since a standard Noredian battleship is equipped with 46Mw class cannons and above, it would be a little difficult for us to face them head-on with those. Still, if we consider your ships some oversized cruisers then we should be able to utilize it.¡± After explaining to Frea in a small voice, Diaroze crossed her arms. Frea is a logistic officer so she doesn¡¯t know much about weapons. ¡°If our speed is equal to the [Prussia] then only the ships under the direct control of the Empress would be able to catch up with us. I think we should be focusing on escaping here, Master.¡± ¡°Eh!?¡± Exclaimed Kisei who was fidgeting with a pen in the corner of the deck. A bunch of colored paper was held in his hand. They were the paper Makina and her subordinates prepared for him. ¡°I¡¯m suggesting that we shouldn¡¯t take the pursuers head-on but¡­¡­Master, you are actually writing them autographs? You can just ignore them you know.¡± ¡°Well, but¡­¡­.¡± Kisei glanced behind him with a difficult expression. There, the Wibel Hounds including Makina are being detained in cuffs and shackles. They were retrieved together with Kisei and Diaroze as POWs. Their eyes lost color and they looked like it was the end of the world. Their attitude looks like they are completely burnt out. It appears that not only Makina, the other of the Wibel Hounds are also fans of Kisei so they are still recovering from the news of his marriage. ¡°I mean, I feel bad¡­¡­.¡± ¡°You are too kind, My Lord.¡± Tersis, who¡¯s been silently listening, shrugged. ¡°However, we should sortie soon. Perhaps My Lord should leave such a thing for later?¡± Tersis glances at the maintenance crew who are resupplying their strikers. A simple resupply doesn¡¯t take much time as they only need to refill their ammunition and fuels at best. On a side note, the standard ammunition for the Calencian army is packed on their ride boosters so they are using that. ¡°We of the Melemheim house will take care of the POWs personally. Since they are our lord¡¯s acquaintance we will not treat them harshly, please rest assured.¡± ¡°Thanks.¡± Kisei shows a small smile and lowers his head. Even though he understands that he can¡¯t do anything for them, it still feels bad to leave them here. The star system they are in is uninhabited so they would be stranded out here after all. ¡°By the way, I believe that they operate out of their own battleship. If it¡¯s still intact after this operation is over, I think we can send them back there.¡± ¡°¡­¡­if it¡¯s still intact huh.¡± Diaroze said with a cramped expression. She then stands up and approaches Makina and the Wibel Hounds. It seems she¡¯s talking to them about something. He doesn¡¯t know what she¡¯s talking to them about but since it¡¯s Diaroze, he decided to leave it to her and turned to Shiraba. ¡°So, ¡­¡­¡­what¡¯s next for me?¡± ¡°For the time being, we have to intercept our pursuers. If we meet more enemies on our path, you will have to crush them¡­¡­.that should be it.¡± Shiraba said with a serious face and made a mischievous smile. ¡°That¡¯s quite a bold strategy but we have a lot of jokers on our side. I¡¯m sure it will work out.¡± It was a strategy that ignored Frea¡¯s fear but at the moment, they have no better plan. Frea shrugged at it while Kisei fiercely grinned at the suggested strategy. ¡°Alright, leave it to me.¡± CH 231 The Space Carriers Menace Around the time Kisei was picked up by the Melemheim fleet, the Calencian main force was engaging the enemy vanguard fleet. ¡°New enemy ships spotted 45 degrees ahead! The report said that it¡¯s a group of destroyers centering around a space carrier. Their number is 20, distance 280.¡± ¡°Ugh¡­¡­.¡± Schleer growls with a cold sweat while leaning back in her seat. Aside from the newly arrived enemies, their fleet is being surrounded on all sides. Most of them are space carriers being guarded by destroyers and small-sized cruisers. Although their ships do not possess much firepower, they are loaded with anti-ship armaments such as grenade launchers and missiles. If such a thing hit them directly, even a battleship would suffer considerable damage. In other words, the Calencians can not let their guard down here. ¡°We can¡¯t afford to stay this close to the enemy anymore. Bring us out of their range!¡± Using a wireless radio, Schleer relayed her order to the captains of each of her ships. On the outer edge of the formation, many of the strikers deployed from the enemy space carriers are already engaging their escort strikers. If the enemy deploys even more strikers than this then they will eventually get overwhelmed and their formation would crumble. ¡°Set target to No.37 destroyer. Ready the main turrets!¡± By the captain¡¯s order, the main turrets of the [Radiant] rotated with a dull noise and took aim at the enemy destroyer. Naturally, the rest of their battleships followed suit. ¡°Ready to fire.¡± ¡°Commence fire!¡± Extra thick beams were fired from the huge barrels peculiar to a battleship¡¯s turret. Although the beams of light flew directly toward the target, the enemy is using a small ship that can make tight turns. It simply rotated and skillfully evaded the barrage. ¡°Don¡¯t panic, aim correction!¡± It was a long-range bombardment that was barely within their effective range so they didn¡¯t expect the first shot to hit. After confirming the capability of the enemy ship, they adjusted their aim and immediately fired a second salvo. The armor plate of the Noredian destroyer that was hit by the charged particles glows red and its AA turrets start to pop off like popcorn. It didn¡¯t sink but this much damage is plenty enough for a long-range bombardment. Cheers erupt on the bridge which was in a cloudy mood due to their battle situation. After all, if they keep adjusting their aim, they will eventually deal significant damage to the enemy ships. But¡­¡­ ¡°Enemy strikers approaching! Distance 20, point 300, 15 degrees above!¡± ¡°!?¡± Schleer hurriedly looks in the reported direction. A group of strikers is beelining toward them with blue fiery trails behind their back. The cruisers and destroyers deployed around the [Radiant] are actively firing at them with their AA turrets but they¡¯re already too close. The [Claymores] that were stationed here to escort them headed off to intercept but the Noredian strikers simply overnumbered them. With the enemies firing their blaster rifles toward them as they approached, the [Claymores] could only shoot back at them from a distance. ¡°Shoot them down!¡± Without waiting for the Captain¡¯s order, the AA turrets have already begun firing beams toward the incoming enemies. Naturally, the battleships positioned around the [Radiant] such as the [Prussia] also started firing. The barrage of beams from 10 battleships is extremely fierce but the enemies wouldn¡¯t come out here in the first place if they are afraid of such a thing. While skillfully avoiding the beams, the Noredian striker corps head directly toward its target. ¡°WHERE ARE OUR AUTOCANNONS!¡± At that prompt, the autocannons started firing at the enemies. A dense barrage fired from multi-barrels cannons raced toward the [Jettas¡¯] formation. One [Jetta] was caught by the storm of shells and its limbs were blown off and exploded. Another [Jetta] that managed to get out of the way was caught by a shot from the AA turrets and destroyed. ¡°ALL HANDS, PREPARE FOR IMPACT!¡± However, the Calencians couldn¡¯t get off scot-free either. The [Jettas] that bravely charged at them and managed to get close and took aim at the [Radiant] with their anti-ship grenade launcher. A large missile was fired and headed straight to the [Radiant]¡¯s chalk-white hull. The autocannons tried to shoot it down but it was fired from a very close distance and was impossible to intercept. The HE warhead detonated, sending a huge vibration throughout the entire ship. That shot didn¡¯t manage to tilt the ship itself but Schleer still frowned at the unpleasant sensation. ¡°Damage report!¡± ¡°AA turret No.4 is down! It seems that the nearby turrets were also damaged by the explosion but we still did not receive a detailed report, Ma¡¯am.¡± ¡°That¡¯s not significant damage. Do not panic. Continue intercepting the enemies.¡± Said Schleer but inside, she was not calm. It¡¯s highly difficult to sink a battleship with striker¡¯s anti-ship armaments but if they destroy the weaker points of their ships such as their auxiliary armaments then their combat power will suffer in the long run. If their firepower at medium and short ranges decreased then it would be extremely difficult for them to fend off the enemy destroyers which pack high firepower incomparable to the weapons these strikers are carrying. Even a battleship wouldn¡¯t be able to take on such a thing directly. ¡°Enemy strikers are circling around! They are coming back!¡± An operator reported in a pathetic voice. Then, another vibration shook the [Radiant]. This time a bead of cold sweat trails down Schleer¡¯s cheek. The [Radiant] is in danger. CH 232 Intense Battle at the Radiant The Calencians are gradually shooting down the attacking Noredian strikers with their AA turrets but they still keep their assault going. Feeling the 5th impact from the explosion on her ship, Schleer couldn¡¯t help but moan bitterly. ¡°As expected, we are their main target after all¡­¡­¡­!¡± Compared to the Noredian ships they added to their ranks like the [Prussia] and the [Odervansen] the [Radiant] is just an old-fashioned ship that would look like an easy target for the enemy. That said, they could not afford to switch their flagship to the [Odervansen] since its operating crew still hasn¡¯t been proficient enough. On the other hand, the [Prussia] is Valentina¡¯s ship, the fact that it¡¯s being operated by former Noredians soldiers made it out of the question for a Calencian flagship. That¡¯s why they had already predicted that the [Radiant] will be the enemy¡¯s main target. ¡°The enemy¡­¡­¡­..they have many destroyers and small-type cruisers. It would be difficult to shake them off even if we retreated at full speed huh.¡± Looking at the tactical map on the monitor, Schleer taps her cheek with her index finger. ¡°But if we prolong this battle, it will surely get worse once the enemy reinforcements arrive.¡± ¡°This is not the time for us to go on an offensive, what we should focus on is our defense. I suggest we pull out troops back from the front line and form a defensive line here.¡± Schleer¡¯s staff, Solana proposed. She points to the troop placement displayed on the map before continuing. ¡°We can withdraw the 5th fleet deployed in E-field and merge it with ours. The 5th fleet is centered around our space carriers after all¡­¡­¡­.I believe they would be a big help in fending off the enemy strikers.¡± ¡°¡­¡­¡­..¡± Solana¡¯s proposal makes sense and Schleer ponders on it while glancing at her watch. Not much time has passed since the battle here began. The core goal of this operation is to buy time before they lure the enemy to their defensive line on the planet. Certainly preserving themselves here is important but considering the future stages of their plan, it would not be wise to move their front line at this time. If they lose this war, it could spell the end of Calencia. That¡¯s why even if it¡¯s a little risky, Schleer decided to hold this place with what they have now. ¡°No, if the E-field collapses more enemies will flood into this area. Even if we gain a temporary advantage over the enemy vanguard, we will lose in the long run since the enemy has a number advantage.¡± ¡°That¡¯s¡­¡­..yes, it is as you said.¡± ¡°Anyway, we have to¡ª-¡­¡­¡± ¡°Explosion confirmed on the AA cruiser [Genge]! Communication lost!¡± Schleer hurriedly turned her gaze toward the direction of the [Genge] at the screaming operator¡¯s report. On the large monitor, which is displaying the image outside the ship using their external camera, a fiery explosion erupted on a battered cruiser. Because they are in space, there was neither sound nor shockwaves. However, from what Schleer can see, the cruiser suffered fatal damage. Zooming in, she spotted that its propulsion engine had already gone silent. Meanwhile, the Noredian destroyers nearby kept bombarding it with their turrets. ¡°¡­¡­¡­.¡± This is bad. Schleer almost clicked her tongue out loud. [Genge] is a cruiser that played a vital part in their defensive formation. With it gone, a large number of Noredian destroyers flood into the opening where the [Genge] has fallen. ¡°Main turrets cease fire! Change aim to enemy destroyer No.11! Hurry up!¡± Their main turrets which were bombarding the enemy from afar now have to turn toward the approaching horde of destroyers. ¡°Change firing mode to alternate fire! Take it down with one shot!¡± ¡°Roger that. Aiming completed, ready to fire.¡± ¡°Fire!¡± The 41cm cannons are the main turret of the [Radiant] roar. They¡¯ve changed the firing mode to alternate fire which fires only one of the twin barrels. They fired only a few shots but perhaps due to how close they already are, their first volley accurately hit their target. The Noredian destroyer which was hit directly by a battleship¡¯s main turrets had its crimson armor plate pierced and exploded. The firepower was clearly overkilling but the crew of the [Radiant] can not celebrate yet. ¡°Next! Set target to cruiser No.3!¡± The turrets moved slightly to adjust their aim and barked again. The cruiser pops off like a cola can hit by several magnum rounds. However, there are still a large number of enemies remaining. And their main turrets need a frustratingly long to reload. ¡°Switch to AP rounds.¡± While hiding her impatience, the gunnery chief ordered. Enemy strikers still kept up their attack so they could not divert their autocannons to attack the enemy destroyers. After all, if they neglect their AA effort, the enemy strikers will bombard them with their anti-ship grenade launcher instead. ¡°Where are our escort strikes? Tell them to hurry up and cover us!¡± Of course, they have deployed strikers to escort the main fleet but it seems they already have their hands full dealing with the enemy strikers. Regardless of the overall fleet, it seems that Nored even has the striker number advantage. Seeing that Schleer grit her teeth. ¡°Fire control radar alert from the enemy destroyers! We¡¯re within their main turrets¡¯ range, ma¡¯am.¡± ¡°Hard turn! Don¡¯t let them take aim at us!¡± ¡°HARD TURN!¡± The ship started to make a sharp turn and the crew felt a slight G on their bodies. A brief moment after, the enemy ships fired their main turrets. Most of the crimson beams went off target and flew past their ship but some still hit the [Radiant] and the [Prussia]. However, they are only small-caliber turrets. Even a direct hit can not penetrate their armor. However, they can still inflict damage to their unarmored parts. ¡°Third navigation radar damaged!¡± ¡°It¡¯s not our fire control radar! Don¡¯t worry about it!¡± When the captain barked another order, the ships fired another volley. Their AP rounds easily pierced the destroyers¡¯ armor, causing explosions inside their ships. Unable to withstand the pressure, the destroyers swell up like a gas cylinder thrown into the fire and instantly explode. Naturally, other battleships also fired their volley to intercept the enemies and many destroyers were shot down in an instant. However, the enemy space carriers are still unscathed. ¡°Ugh¡­¡­¡± Along with Schleer¡¯s moan, an enemy destroyer prepared to fire missiles from its turret-type 635mm triple barrels grenade launcher. Such a thing can be easily intercepted at a long distance but the enemy is already too close. Sweat ran down Schleer¡¯s back. Even if they can intercept this one, there are still many more enemies. Their main turrets alone can not handle this number. It was when she thought that the situation is turning for the worst¡ª¨C ¡°¡­¡­!¡± That thick beam was fired from a distance and pierced the bridge of the destroyer that was about to launch its missile toward them. CH 233 Cavalries ¡°Phew¡­¡­..¡± A sigh leaked from Liren inside the cockpit of her beloved Zenith, the [Pryceta]. After confirming that the first destroyer was down, she shifted her aim to another ship. Then, a high-power beam emitted from the giant sniper blaster cannon held by her purple striker immediately took down another target. ¡°Liren-san! Why are you here!?¡± After she saw what happened, Schleer immediately guessed the identity of the sniper and shouted into the radio. ¡°W, we do appreciate your help but I thought I stationed you on the surface¡­¡­.¡± ¡°I was free.¡± Liren¡¯s reply was extremely simple. Certainly, although the battle in space is very intense, the Noredians have yet to descend on Galea-E. It appears that Liren couldn¡¯t bear the boredom and came out to help. Despite the fact that she can punish her for taking an arbitrary action, it is hard to complain when Liren just saved them during a crisis. Schleer sighed and held her head. Meanwhile, Liren sinks the enemy destroyer one after another. Moreover, as the [Pryceta]¡¯s blaster cannon has a longer range than a destroyer¡¯s main turret she received no counterattack from the enemy. ¡°T, Thank you¡­¡­¡­ but your role is extremely important to our plan. Once you are done, please go back to your position as soon as possible.¡± ¡°That¡¯s¡­..not fun. And this seems like it¡¯s going to end soon too¡­¡­¡­¡± ¡°Of course! I will finish this in no time so just go back to your station [DESU]!¡± It was not Liren alone. Nora also deployed in her [Zarava] and started attacking the enemy destroyers. The enemies turned their autocannons to intercept her but she was completely unfazed. She skillfully evade their shots and kept firing her magnums into their propulsion engine. The firepower is a little lacking but it¡¯s still enough to disable the destroyer-class ships. With bright red flame erupted from their thruster, an enemy destroyer was rendered unnavigable. ¡°I¡¯m plenty of a reinforcement by myself [DESU]!¡± Nora immediately headed to her next target but perhaps she neglected to listen to her order properly, the dummy exterior that was installed to disguise the [Zarava] was already purged. ¡°Muuhh¡­¡­.¡± Liren¡¯s mouth cutely pouted but their enemy¡¯s reaction didn¡¯t end with that. After all, their formation was greatly disturbed by the surprise attack from an ace they recognized. ¡°Th, that¡­¡­., isn¡¯t that the [Zarava]!? So it¡¯s true that the 4 Heavenly have betrayed the Empire!?¡± ¡°Ugh, Intercept her! Don¡¯t let her get any closer!¡± Nora ferociously attacks the enemy ships while avoiding their barrages of shells. Just like that, she sank 3 consecutive ships. Furthermore, using the chaos Nora created, the Calencian battleships also fired their main turrets toward the confused enemies. With the effort from Nora, Liren, and the Calencian battleships combined, many of the enemy destroyers that were giving them such a hard time are gradually getting incapacitated. ¡°There¡¯s no point hitting them with our missiles like this! Retreat!¡± The commander of the striker unit that had been harassing the [Radiant] instructed her subordinates in a bitter voice and all Noredian strikers started to take distance away from the [Radiant]. ¡°We need to adjust our position. Nora-san, please go engage the enemy unit on the edge of our formation!¡± Clearing her throat, Schleer gave Nora an order. The enemy destroyers could get this close because their escort fleets were attacked from all directions and their formation was disrupted. With the support from the [Zarava] which boasts high firepower and mobility, they should be able to earn time to adjust their formation. ¡°Ehhh? How boring [DESU]¡­¡­¡­¡± Nora, who was trying to chase after the withdrawing enemy retreating space carriers, reluctantly agreed. ¡°Rather, where are Kisei-SAN and the others? Isn¡¯t it about time for them to come back [DESUKA]?¡± ¡°Pyuii!?¡± Upon hearing Kisei¡¯s name, Liren made a strange noise. She suddenly seemed nervous and turned back to the surface of Galea-E. It seems she isn¡¯t ready to meet Kisei yet. Seeing her like that, Schleer let out a bitter smile. ¡°I can¡¯t say. Our communication to that side is down due to the enemy¡¯s jamming,¡­¡­.¡± At that time, the communication operator suddenly shouted a report in a joyful voice. ¡°Incoming report from the frontline! They received messages that the Melemheim and Falfeta fleets had successfully separated from the enemy fleet. They¡¯re currently making their way to us through the L-field.¡± ¡°If they¡¯re already at the L-field then they should be here soon [DESUNE].¡± Said Nora as she fired her thruster. ¡°Maybe we didn¡¯t need to come out here in the first place [DESUKA]?¡± ¡°No, that was truly a close call. I¡¯m thankful for your help.¡± The place where the Melemheim fleet is is not far from the main fleet but it¡¯s still behind the enemy line. With the main fleet under fire, it would be hard for them to join up. But thanks to Nora and Liren, they managed to create a breathing room. Schleer finally let out a sigh of relief. ¡°When this war is over I will give you two plenty of medals. Please look forward to it.¡± ¡°I don¡¯t really care about medals. If you want to reward me, give me money instead [DESU]¡­¡­.¡± Nora protested with a slightly pouty face. CH 234 Battle on two fronts When Schleer was struggling with the enemy vanguard fleet, Kisei and the others were also locked in battle. ¡°How persistent!!¡± While swearing, Eleanor aimed her twin mega blaster rifle at an enemy [Vil]. She was in a good mood when she got her signature weapon from the Fafleta fleet but her mood immediately plummeted because of the enemy¡¯s continuous attacks. ¡°Uwawawa!¡± The warning sound rang in her cockpit and she had to hurriedly evade. A beat later multiple thick beams fired from an enemy ship flew past the place where the [Parfeel] was. ¡°W, What a pain!¡± Beyond her line of sight was a large crimson cruiser. It is a powerful warship with a size comparable to that of a battleship. The large-type cruiser aimed its 36cm twin barrels turrets at Eleanor and the others and mercilessly fired. Naturally, being the top aces that they are, they were not slow enough to get hit by a ship¡¯s turrets. However, when they are being fired at with something that has enough firepower to evaporate their whole striker with a single shot, they can¡¯t help but tense up. ¡°Good grief, how troublesome indeed.¡± Said Tersis in a carefree tone. Her striker is only armed with a longsword so she has no way to incapacitate a ship so she left handling the ships to the others. ¡°Seriously! Saying it like it¡¯s someone else¡¯s business¡­¡­.¡± Eleanor swore but there¡¯s no use complaining. She glances at the console to see her remaining ammunition and¨C ¡°But if we don¡¯t do something about those ships soon it will really be troublesome for us! Kisei, let¡¯s go!¡± Although they are being chased by large-type cruisers, if the Melemheim fleet, which mainly consisted of battleships, seriously fired back the enemy would stand no chance. However, since the enemy has seemingly unlimited numbers, taking them head-on is unwise. The enemy knew that as well so they kept firing at the Melemheim fleet from behind without worrying much about return fire. ¡°Alright, Let¡¯s do this!¡± Kisei immediately agreed. If the fleet retaliates, there will be a huge number of casualties from both sides. As Kisei is sensitive to death, he wants to avoid it and he¡¯s been incapacitating the enemy ships with non-lethal means. Opening the throttle, he accelerated his striker. His target is, of course, the enemy large-type cruiser. A barrage from its autocannons raced toward Kisei and Eleanor to intercept their approach but the two repeatedly made sharp turns and avoided it. ¡°NNnnnn!¡± Diaroze raised a muffled scream. Whether it be its main turrets or its autocannons, a single shot from the enemy ship can easily destroy their striker. Seeing a barrage of beams and shells from such a ship racing toward them already made her stomach turn. ¡°How pathetic! Ohohohohoho!¡± Diaroze angrily exhaled at Eleanor¡¯s mocking laugh. ¡°So you are too stupid to even feel the fear huh, fool.¡± ¡°I will give you a punch later so be prepared alright!!¡± With that back and forth, the group entered the range of the enemy AA turrets and the two strikers were greeted with colorful tracer rounds. Although the enemy interception effort was intense, it was not enough to deter the [Wicked Star] and the [Heavenly Thunder]. While delicately operating this control stick, Kisei kept performing evasive maneuvers while observing the cruiser. It is so big that it wouldn¡¯t be a mistake to dub it a small-sized battleship. The number of AA turrets and autocannons installed along its deck and sides is no joke. ¡°Target their propulsion engine!¡± ¡°Yes, yes, I got it!¡± It would be much faster if they target the bridge or the main turrets instead but that would cause too many deaths. Taking down a ship by destroying its propulsion engine and thruster is Kisei¡¯s style. Of course, he already let Eleanor know about his preference in advance. The magenta and pure white Zeniths beelined toward the large cruiser¡¯s propulsion engine like an arrow. While skillfully avoiding the coming AA fires, they approach the engine directly from the stern side. With the engine within range, the [Ex-Caliburn] and the [Parfeel] take aim at it with the anti-ship grenade launcher and twin mega blaster rifle respectively. ¡°First shot!¡± The anti-ship missile and a supercharged particle beams hit the propulsion engine of the cruiser. A violent explosion occurred and even its hull started to shake. However, its thruster is still spewing blue fiery trails. It appears they couldn¡¯t do enough damage to it. That said, this much is within the expectations of those who are familiar with anti-ship combat. The two performed evasive maneuvers. With a slight difference, Eleanor¡¯s [Parfeel] was faster in launching the second attack. ¡°Take this!¡± Eleanor shot her beams into the same bullet hole her first shot made. The cruiser¡¯s red armor plate began to foam up due to the heat and an explosion erupted from the inside. Following that, Kisei also shot another missile at the same location. Perhaps his shot immediately vaporized the propellant inside, the cruiser¡¯s armor strangely swelled and white gas was leaking from the inside. ¡°One down!¡± With this, the ship should no longer be able to navigate on its own. After that, Kisei takes aim at the next large-type cruiser. There are still many cruisers that are in pursuit of the Melemheim fleet. It would be difficult to sink all of them but making them give up their pursuit would be doable. However¡­¡­.. ¡°Kisei, can you hear me?¡± Frea voice came through the cockpit¡¯s speaker. She¡¯s already got off the [Dainsleif] and is not onboard the [Mephisto]. ¡°Saki-chan just called it in but it seems our forward group has encountered a large group of enemy destroyers ahead of us. Once we get through, we will probably enter the Calencia¡¯s controlled space though¡­¡­.¡± After saying that in an apologetic tone, Frea turned silent for a moment. ¡°¡­¡­even if we have a lot of battleships on our side, it would be ugly if their anti-ship missiles landed a lucky shot on us. That¡¯s why we want you to clear out the destroyers in our path.¡± ¡°NNNNNnnnn! And it just started to get good here too!¡± To come this far but have to give up pursuing the other cruisers is obviously a killjoy for him. The enemy seems to be in confusion from the feat they just pulled and their AA effort is not as intense as before. To be frank, he wants to continue demoralizing the enemy here by continuing his attack¡­¡­¡­.. ¡°Fine, fine. I¡¯m going!¡± However, Kisei can not just ignore the request from the fleet so he has to reluctantly agree. ¡°Sorry. We will dispatch some of our escorts to fill in the gap¡­¡­..¡± The striker units of the Melemheims are certainly elite but it would be impossible for them to disable the enemy cruisers as skillfully as Kisei and Eleanor did. Kisei let out a small sigh. Surrounded by enemies from both sides, their situation is truly a difficult one. CH 235 Breaking Through Certainly, the group of destroyers ended up making Kisei and the others reluctantly give up their battle in the rear but from their perspective, Kisei¡¯s arrival is also a disaster. After all, a whole enemy fleet just appeared behind them while they were engaging the Calencian main force in the front. ¡°T, Those ships, they are not on our side!?¡± ¡°So the report that the Melemheim fleet has defected is true!?¡± With their ships and strikers being mercilessly fired upon by the Melemheim fleet, the Noredian vanguard fleet was plunged into great confusion. Since they were firing at them from long range, there was no direct hit but it does affect their morale due to the sudden pincer attack. Moreover, none of their ships are equipped to fight against battleships at this range. ¡°Hurry up and retreat will you!¡± The Noredian fleet that¡¯s trying to escape is also being attacked by Kisei and the others. Confused, the fleet couldn¡¯t form an organized counterattack. All they can do is direct the meager firepower of their destroyer¡¯s main turrets and AA weaponry at the [Ex-Caliburn] but that is not nearly enough to stop Kisei¡¯s advance. Unable to intercept his attack, the destroyer received a blow to its propulsion engine and aimlessly flew away while spewing black smoke from its stern. A large ship with thick armor is one thing but a destroyer with low defensive power can be taken down by a striker¡¯s firepower with no problem. ¡°Don¡¯t let those Zeniths get close to the ships!¡± The captain of the escort striker unit led the charge to prevent Kisei from causing further damage to the fleet. However, they understand well how unreasonable it is to face a Zenith with their mass-produced machines. Even if they try to counterattack, Kisei would just disengage and all they can do is delay the inevitable. ¡°Only at this level huh!¡± Tersis rushed toward a [Jetta] that¡¯s firing blindly at them with her longsword. Naturally, the acceleration power of the [Van Wolf] which was designed to be a close quarter specialist won¡¯t allow a mere [Jetta] to escape its charge. ¡°U, Uwawa!?¡± All the [Jetta]¡¯s pilot could do was point the rifle¡¯s muzzle at the [Van Wolf] with a scream. However, even faster than the pilot could pull the trigger, Tersis¡¯s sword that was specially forged for her use has already cut through the [Jetta]¡¯s armor like wet paper. ¡°Kugh! Lady [Heavenly Blade]! Why did you betray us!¡± In a bitter tone, a pilot of a nearby [Vil] questioned Tersis. The 4 Heavenly are heroes of the Nore Empire. The fact that they are now turning their blade toward them, soldiers of the Imperial army, is simply something that they do not want to accept as reality. ¡°For Love!¡± The moment she replied, Tersis fully accelerated. Seeing the vermillion striker rushing toward her [Vil] like a cannonball, the pilot¡¯s face immediately stiffened. ¡°YOU BETRAYED US BECAUSE OF A MAN!?¡± In the desert naught of man that is the army, the topic of boyfriend is forbidden. The pilot instantly got enraged. She forgot that she was addressing the [Heavenly Blade] herself and unsheathed a photon saber to intercept the [Van Wolf]¡¯s charge. ¡°That¡¯s right!¡± With not a shred of guilt, Tersis replied. At the same time, she swung her sword down on the [Vil] who managed to catch it with its photon saber. However, while losing its balance from the impact of the blow, the [Vil] received a kick to its abdomen. ¡°Guh!¡± The [Vil] fired its thruster and regained its balance but that was all it could do. Tersis¡¯s longsword sharply pierced the abdomen of the crimson striker. Then, Tersis pulled the sword back out while kicking away the now disabled striker. ¡°DAMN IT ALL, I WANT A MAN IN MY LIFE TO~~~~O!!¡± The pilot let out a pitiful scream while hydraulic oil continued to spill out from the wound on her striker¡¯s abdomen. And her scream gave Tersis a triumphant smile. ¡°Hmph, sorry about that¡­¡­.¡± ¡°You actually don¡¯t feel sorry at all right! Tersis-sama!!!¡± However, the retort that immediately followed made Tersis frown. And that retort came from none other than Eleanor. ¡°It¡¯s in bad taste to add insult to injury you know!¡± ¡°You just did the exact same thing though¡­¡­..¡± Diaroze shrugged while bitterly smiling at the pitiful cry that can be heard from the open channel. ¡°But judging from how weak their resistance is here, ¡­¡­.our allies must be close huh.¡± Beyond her line of sight were the enemy destroyers trying to escape the bombardment from the Melemheim fleet. At first glance, it may look pathetic but it would be more natural to think that they ended up in this state because the Melemheim fleet just showed up behind them while they were focusing on the enemy to their front. Even an elite crew would panic if they got attacked from a direction they didn¡¯t expect after all. That said, such a confused state is only temporary. They need to break through this place before the enemies regain their composure. ¡°I don¡¯t see any report about any more enemy cruisers being sunk after we left. I don¡¯t think they can catch up to us yet but¡­¡­¡­.it would be bad if we take too much time here.¡± Diarzoe growls while stroking her chin. She chose to maintain the position as a tactical adviser but her way of thinking is still that of the commander. ¡°Master, we should prioritize the destroyers here. The strikers they have here only wield anti-striker weaponry. It seems they¡¯ve already dispatched their anti-ship squadrons somewhere else. They probably won¡¯t post any threat to our battleships.¡± Ignoring the enemy strikers and forcibly breakthrough. That¡¯s the plan she decided to go with. ¡°Leave it to me!¡± With a grin, Kisei accelerated. The nozzles on the back of [Ex-Caliburn] spit out blue flames and pushed the striker forward with tremendous force. His target is the destroyer that¡¯s currently firing its main turrets at Tersis and the others. Seeing his approach, the destroyer hurriedly pointed its turrets at the [Ex-Caliburn] but Kisei was unfazed. In less than a minute, an anti-ship missile was fired into its propulsion engine, turning it into a chunk of iron that can no longer navigate on its own. And without sparing them a look, Kisei moved on to his next target. CH 236 The Long Awaited Union The Noredian vanguard fleet is currently being sandwiched with enemies on two fronts. In such a situation, it¡¯s unlikely that they will be able to put up a proper fight. Judging so, the fleet commander has issued a retreat order. ¡°We finally arrived¡­¡­.. thank goodness.¡± In front of the familiar chalk-white battlecruiser, Kisei let out a deep sigh of relief. It took him 30 minutes to clear out the Noredian strikers and destroyers but now they finally managed to link up with the Calencian main force. ¡°Good work, Kisei.¡± Schleer¡¯s voice could be heard through the comm channel. She sounded terribly relieved that the first stage of their plan went well. Also, he could feel the tiredness in her voice. ¡°Now we should have enough strength to handle the Noredian army head-on.¡± The number of battleships in the merged fleet is 18. Moreover, each battleship is accompanied by auxiliary ships of various classes. Considering the combat power of each individual ship, their army is now stronger than it ever was before the war. Although most of these ships came from their former enemies, Schleer can¡¯t help but feel moved thinking about how Calencia was one-sidedly beaten before. ¡°But if we fight them head-on we will still lose in the end. Even with this number, we still can¡¯t afford to be reckless, Ma¡¯am.¡± Solana cautioned her. Although they now stand a better chance due to their bolstered number, it is still not enough to win against the full might of Nored in a direct fight. Even if they can keep it an even fight for a while, they will eventually get surrounded and defeated in the end. ¡°Hmm¡­¡­.¡± While listening to Schleer¡¯s and Solana¡¯s conversation, Diaroze put up a tactical map on the console monitor. The enemies in the area have already withdrawn but it seems that the ships that were in pursuit of the Melemheim fleet are still yet to give up. They were held back by the Melemheim¡¯s striker corps but it is unknown when they will breach through. Slapping her cheeks, Diaroze stretched her body while the tight pilot suit emphasized her enormous breasts and bodyline. ¡°Nnnn! ¡­¡­..Fumu, it might be better for us to hit them back once huh.¡± ¡°¡­¡­..hou.¡± Although Solana looked like she also had her opinion about their situation, she did not interrupt Diaroze. After all, she¡¯s aware that Diaroze is an extraordinary strategist. ¡°They must have dispatched their fastest ships to pursue the Melemheim fleet. If that¡¯s the case then we should crush their fast-moving ships before their slow ones arrive. In other words, we should destroy them while they are isolated.¡± ¡°I see.¡± On the [Radiant], Schleer folded her arms and considered Diaroze¡¯s plan. ¡°But what would we do if there are enemies that we can¡¯t take down during that time? Once we start exchanging fires, the enemies wouldn¡¯t withdraw so easily you know.¡± ¡°That¡¯s also true. But the enemy won¡¯t be throwing everything they have at us immediately. We have all 4 Heavenly here, not to mention Master as well. We are at the advantage in terms of ability and morale. As long as we have those, we should be able to manage a few disadvantages.¡± ¡°Why do you think that the enemy won¡¯t just throw everything at us?¡± Focused attack is one of the basic battle tactics. The enemy has no reason to let go of their number advantage so easily. Thinking so, Solana asked while cocking her head. ¡°Unless her safety can be guaranteed, the Empress herself won¡¯t be coming out to the frontline herself. To add to that, her elite troops will have to stay back to escort her. That¡¯s why they will probably send the noble army our way.¡± ¡°Hmmm¡­¡­.¡± Being the Empress¡¯s actual daughter, she should be someone who¡¯s most familiar with her personality. However, they have a lot to lose if this plan doesn¡¯t go well. Because it¡¯s not an easy decision, Schleer decides to seek some advice. ¡°Valentina, what do you think?¡± ¡°Me?¡± A little surprised voice returned from Valentina on board the [Prussia]. It seems Valentina herself did not expect to be asked an opinion. Unlike Diaroze who fed them suggestion after suggestion even when she was not asked, Valentina¡¯s not very active when it comes to the planning process. ¡°Mother¡­¡­no, it¡¯s true that the Empress is a very cautious person. What she¡¯s fearing the most is being at the center of the attack. This woman might be shameless but she wouldn¡¯t propose a plan with no chance of winning¡­¡­¡­I think.¡± ¡°Fumu¡­¡­..thank you.¡± With her arm still folded, Schleer kept pondering on it. The staff around her silently waited for her next words. ¡°¡­¡­.in case the enemy sends their main force here, what will we do?¡¯ ¡°Well, that¡¯s simple.¡± Diaroze replied with a terrible amount of confidence. ¡°If that happens then we can just go take the Empress¡¯s head. Be it on her battleship or her striker, Master can easily take her out. After all, the moment she showed up is the moment her fate is sealed.¡± ¡°Certainly.¡± Recalling how Diaroze did everything to not confront Kisei directly, Schleer was convinced. If the Empress is defeated by Kisei in single combat then the morale of their entire army would plummet to the point that they would no longer be able to fight. Most of the aristocrats only pledge their loyalty to the Empress¡¯s might. If said might is no longer all-powerful, it wouldn¡¯t be strange for the Vuld aristocrats to rebel. ¡°Besides, in the worst case, we still have that BOMB. I don¡¯t really want to use them here but¡­¡­..if push comes to shove we will have to use it. It should deal a big enough blow for them to retreat after all.¡± ¡°Th, that huh¡­¡­¡± Valentina growls in a clearly embarrassed tone. On the other hand, Schleer¡¯s face stiffened. It¡¯s that messed up after all. ¡°Very well. We will go with that plan. All ships full speed forward!¡± Since they already have a plan, all that is left is to swiftly execute it. They need to avoid the enemy¡¯s fast and slow ships to join up so Schleer immediately issued her order. ¡°Set target to H-field. We will meet the enemy there!¡± CH 237 Warrior¡¯s respite It¡¯s time for a counterattack but a pilot¡¯s endurance still has its limit. Kisei and the others have been out fighting for some time already to pave the path for the Melemheim fleet. Considering that this is going to be a long battle, Kisei who¡¯s the trump card of Calencia, can not be allowed to exhaust himself too early. ¡°Muuh¡­¡­.¡± Because of that, Kisei and the others were sent to a space carrier stationed in the rear while the [Radiant] and other battleships are dealing with the enemy at the front. It¡¯s Schleer¡¯s intention to have Kisei rest in a relatively safe place. However, Kisei pouted and kept groaning at her consideration. He still can and wants to keep fighting. He¡¯s currently resting in a pilot waiting room. It has old sofas lined up inside, a large monitor with no power, and a poster of a half-naked boy on the wall. ¡°You can¡¯t go making that kind of face you know. A trump card will only be the most effective if you use it at the right timing after all. There¡¯s no need for Master to personally deal with some cruisers in the first place.¡± With a bitter smile, Diaroze sits next to him while stroking his hair. The old springs inside the sofa made a creaking noise at her weight. ¡°Resting is also a knight¡¯s job you know.¡± Said Eleanor with a sleepy voice as she lay down on a sofa. Tersis and Saki are also here as all of the Zenith pilots who were escorting the Melemheim fleet were sent here to rest. Incidentally, the other pilots from the Melemheim fleet are resting inside another room on this same ship. ¡°¡­¡­.Still, this room is terrible isn¡¯t it. To think that they would make me use such an uncomfortable sofa as a bed.¡± Like the one Kisei and Diaroze are sitting on, her sofa is also very worn after many years of use. It¡¯s obviously unsuitable for an aristocrat like her. Even so, they have no choice in the matter. A space carrier is a simple warship, it¡¯s basically a rocket engine and a bridge hulling a gigantic container. It¡¯s a type of ship that you use to transport commoner soldiers. That¡¯s why there¡¯s no luxurious room for a high-born aristocrat on board. However, this was the only ship that they can use to rest. ¡°Heh, to whine at something like this, you¡¯re still green huh.¡± On the other hand, Saki, who is of a commoner origin, is very calm. She just sits down crossed-legs on the floor while taking a bite of synthetic meat jerky. ¡°She¡¯s an aristocrat too right? How about you learn from her a little?¡± In the direction Saki points to was Tersis who¡¯s leaning on the wall while sleeping soundly. With her strong self-discipline, she fell asleep in an instant without complaining when she was told to rest. In a sense, she might have the ideal personality of a warrior. ¡°I can put up with an uncomfortable bed but at least I want a pillow! Kisei! Please let me rest on your lap!¡± ¡°There¡¯s no way we¡¯re going to let you do that right.¡± Kisei was suddenly brought into the conversation but before he could say anything, Diaroze refused on his behalf. Moreover, she¡¯s also waving her hand like she¡¯s shooing away a stray dog. ¡°If Master lets you rest on his laps then Master won¡¯t be able to rest himself right¡­¡­¡­¡­Umu, but a lap pillow is also a nice idea huh.¡± As though an idea just came to her, Diaroze grinned and tapped on her knees. ¡°A nap would be a good way to get some rest for the next battle so as your personal slave, I have the duty to provide Master with a good sleeping condition. Right?¡± ¡°Honestly, I don¡¯t really feel like sleeping though¡­¡­¡­can¡¯t I just go back to the [Ex-Caliburn]?¡± Still dissatisfied, Kisei grumbled. He¡¯s unrivaled as a pilot but if the ship he¡¯s resting on is sunk then he can¡¯t do anything. That¡¯s why it¡¯s his style to rest in the cockpit so that he can sortie at any time. However, this time he was forcibly brought here by Diaroze and the others¡­¡­.. ¡°If Master stayed connected to the I-con system then you won¡¯t be able to relax right. This is not the time to be selfish you know.¡± Although the area around this ship is rather peaceful, a large-scale battle between two gigantic fleets is just nearby. Naturally, there will be a large number of casualties on both sides. Since she knows that the thought of death has a negative effect on Kisei, Diaroze wants to keep him disconnected from the I-con as much as possible. ¡°Come, come, hurry up and lay down.¡± Diaroze urges him while tapping her knees. Admitting defeat, Kisei puts his head on her lap and lies on the sofa. As Eleanor said, the sofa was rather uncomfortable. ¡°¡­¡­¡­..¡± Diaroze gently leaned forward with a sweet smile and placed her plump breasts on Kisei¡¯s face. Kisei yelped in surprise as the soft and heavy feel of her breasts was too stimulating for his tired body. ¡°¡­¡­¡­.what are you doing?¡± Eleanor asked in a terrifyingly cold voice while Saki silently glared at her. ¡°It¡¯s just a simple skinship though?¡± ¡°That would just put unnecessary weight on him right. Take those lumps off his face.¡± ¡°What, Master does enjoy my breasts you know. They will be good for stress relief.¡± With a triumphant look, Diaroze snickers. Saki and Eleanor kept glaring at her but they didn¡¯t physically peel her off Kisei as they want to preserve their stamina for the battle. In the end, Diaroze¡¯s [Skinship] lasted until the end of their break. CH 238 Crushing the Pursuers Around the time when Kisei¡¯s group was resting. The Calencian battleships advanced to the frontline to face the enemy¡¯s large-type cruisers. ¡°Destruction of enemy cruiser No.3 confirmed!¡± Shouted the operator as she confirmed that an enemy cruiser received a direct hit from the bombardment by their battleships. Even though their fleet has both old and new ships mixed together, the bombardment from 18 battleships was more than enough to sink the enemy elite cruisers. ¡°Enemy reinforcements detected 55 degrees ahead! 6 large-type and 10 medium-type!¡± However, the enemy¡¯s number is still overwhelming. They simply replace the sunken ships with more ones. Hearing the operator¡¯s report, Schleer¡¯s furrowed her brows. ¡°Any battleships?¡± ¡°They are likely large-type cruisers, ma¡¯am. The size would be too small for an imperial battleship.¡± ¡°Hmm¡­¡­..¡± As long as they are cruisers then there¡¯s no problem. The range and firepower of their battleships are far superior to that of the enemy cruisers. Even their old-fashioned battleships with 41cm turrets can take advantage of that difference. ¡°But we can not let our guard down. We don¡¯t know when they will send out their battleships after all¡­¡­.we have to take down as many of their cruisers as we can.¡± Schleer growls while scanning the tactical map. ¡°But the enemy¡¯s movement sure is strange isn¡¯t it. Their attack doesn¡¯t seem to be organized at all. If they come at us with a proper formation then even cruisers would give us a challenge after all.¡± For a while now, the Noredians have been sending in their small and medium-sized fleets intermittently. For the Calencian side, it¡¯s convenient as it is easier for them that way but Schleer doesn¡¯t understand why the enemy still doesn¡¯t organize their ships and attacks in waves.¡± ¡°These are the Noredian aristocrats after all. Because they rarely fight a foreign enemy, they usually treat their fellow aristocrats like their rivals. Perhaps they are not cooperating well with each other because of that.¡± The Chief of staff replied while thoughtfully tapping her forehead. With more than 50 years of commanding experience, she¡¯s very proficient in warfare. With a mentor-like expression, the Chief of Staff continues. ¡°With a big enough threat, they would unite under one the princess the imperial family sent but in case of the enemy that they have enough manpower to win against¡­¡­..they often push the burden to other aristocrats to deal with.¡± ¡°Even if they serve the same lord, when it comes to their own power and territory, they will prioritize their interests first huh. I see¡­¡­.¡± In a small country like Calencia, it¡¯s something that is rather unusual. After all, if they have infighting, it will only give their enemies the chance to invade. On that point, they are quite different from Nored which can afford such internal conflicts. Schleer ponders while stroking her cheek. ¡°Then let us make use of their arrogance. Crush them all!¡± In response to Schleer¡¯s order, the [Odelvansen] fired all its main turrets. The beams that are incomparably thicker than those of any Calencian ship immediately flew toward the enemy reinforcements. Even though it was formerly an enemy ship, Schleer grinned at the fact that she now has such a powerful ship under her command. However, unfortunately, the beams wildly missed their target. Even though the enemy was within its effective range, the beams flew past the enemies without hitting anything. Seeing that, Schleer let out an exasperated sigh. ¡°¡­¡­¡­that said, we still have a lot of challenges ourselves huh.¡± ¡°Half of its crew were new recruits who¡¯s just finished their training and the other half were the discharged veterans we called back in after all. No matter how good the hardware is, if the crew is not accustomed to operating it then it will not be able to exhibit its full power. The training period we had for them was simply too short¡­¡­..¡± The Chief of Staff tiredly let out a sigh as well. The [Odelvansen] has only been incorporated into the Calencian army for a short time and the proficiency training was cut short due to this operation. It¡¯s probably unreasonable for them to put too much expectation on it. ¡°No.7 cruiser¡¯s destruction confirmed. It¡¯s the [Prussia].¡± ¡°As expected of them huh.¡± Contrary to her words, Schleer¡¯s expression was slightly bitter. They have a battle log that recorded the battle from the beginning to the present. Apparently, it seems that Valentina¡¯s fleet has way more successes than the actual Calencian fleet. The Calencian fleet is not inferior to Valentina¡¯s crew in terms of command and skill but the difference in their equipment is clear and it¡¯s reflected in the battle results. Even though Valentina¡¯s now their ally, that¡¯s still unamusing for her. ¡°She might turn into an enemy depending on what¡¯s going to happen after this after all¡­¡­..?¡± ¡°Did you say something, Your Highness?¡± Schleer silently shook her head sideways at the Chief of Staff¡¯s question. She doesn¡¯t want to carelessly affect her troops¡¯ morale. Besides, Valentina has not been making any suspicious moves so far. Valentina will probably not betray them during the battle. It¡¯s not like the Noredians will just stop firing if the Calencian fleet is gone after all. Convincing that they can leave their back to them for the time being, Schleer switched gears. ¡°Once this battle is over, send my regards to the [Prussia]¡¯s crew.¡± Besides, it would be better to have Valentina do her best here. The more she fights, the fewer supplies she will have later and the more fatigued her soldiers will be. While hoping that she can exhaust them to the extent that they wouldn¡¯t even consider pointing their guns toward her, Schleer continues commanding her fleet. CH 239 Buying Time Two hours have passed since they started battling the enemy cruisers. The enemy cruisers were not foolish enough to plunge head first toward their battleships as they were committing to a hit and run tactic. It was a passive tactic but it¡¯s still effective in slowing down the rate the Calencians are sinking their ships. ¡°Enemy group A has switched direction to 37.¡± ¡°Muhh¡­¡­..¡± Schleer growls. The enemy is getting away from them. If possible, she wants to chase them down but her fleet mainly consists of battleships while the enemy is using cruisers with superior speed. The [Radiant] which is also a cruiser and the [Prussia] which is a battleship that boasts its speed might be able to do that but the Calencian fleet which mainly consists of [Harima] class battleships (The same as Calencia¡¯s original flagship, the [Glorious]) can not keep up with the enemy cruisers. The same goes for Valentina¡¯s fleet which mainly consists of the [Ilcol] class battleships. Even if they only send out their fast ships, it would be dangerous if they get too far ahead. Rearrange the formation. Keep an eye out for enemy strikers and destroyers.¡± In the end, Schleer decided to remain passive. It would be bad if they got distracted by the big enemies and the small enemies with high mobility use that chance to flank them. And sure enough, a swarm of strikers rushed toward their fleet with enemy destroyers following shortly behind them. ¡°Set target to track No.33 and 34. Fire all autocannons.¡± The escort fleet and the battleships greet the enemy strikers with barrages from their autocannons. Unlike last time, their barrages were extremely fierce because they now have doubled the number of their ships. Even the elite Noredian pilots would find it difficult to get through. As a result, the enemy strikers had to spread out to avoid their AA guns. ¡°Be mindful of the enemy strikers¡¯ movement, shift our main turrets to destroyer No.56!¡± While listening to the captain¡¯s command and the noise from the AA turrets, Schleer started considering her next move while crossing her arms. They have managed to merge with the Melemheim fleet and the threat from the enemy space carriers and their strikers has significantly lessened. However, it would be difficult to maintain this status quo forever. ¡°How are we doing on the ammunition?¡± Not just the ammunition, but the fatigue of the crew is something that she needs to worry about as well. Both will eventually get depleted in a prolonged battle. ¡°¡­¡­.from the report, it seems most of our ships¡¯ particle bullets are down to 30%, ma¡¯am.¡± ¡°Hmm¡­¡­.it seems we can¡¯t keep bombarding them from afar much longer huh.¡± AP and HE rounds that use shells can be quite slow in a space battle. They can¡¯t expect much accuracy unless their targets are close. ¡°We need to bring the battle to the surface before we run out of particle bullets but¡­¡­¡­.¡± While checking her watch, Schleer strokes her chin. It is still too early for them to withdraw to Galea-E. It seems like she will have to do her best here for a while longer. When she thought so, she felt even more fatigued. She wants to just drag Kisei to bed right now and sleep for 12 hours straight with him in her arms. Still, she didn¡¯t voice her desire out loud. ¡°Incoming report from our recon unit! Enemy battleships were spotted in the L field. 30 ships confirmed!¡± However, her delusion was interrupted by the operator¡¯s tense voice. When more than 30 enemy battleships are spotted, it probably can¡¯t be helped for the operator to panic like that. After all, if 30 battleships fired at them from the front, even their main fleet would be evaporated in the blink of an eye. ¡°There are a lot of them. Perhaps the cruisers here are only buying time for their battleships to arrive?¡± Solana groaned. In the middle of the battle, the enemy cruisers here suddenly opted for a passive tactic. The frequency of their reinforcements also decreased. It appears that the enemy is also switching tactics. ¡°But, the L field is it¡­¡­¡­it would take another 30 minutes for them to get here huh. Hmm¡­¡­¡­¡± Schleer thinks of a countermeasure while looking at the tactical map. Judging from the number of their battleships, it must be the Noredian main force. From the report, there should be more though¡­¡­¡­no, perhaps the Empress and her guards are still in the rear. ¡°Withdraw the fleet to D field, maintain fire on the enemy cruisers. After we buy enough time we will descend to the surface.¡± The place they designated as the D field is in the low orbit of Galea-E. They can quickly descend to the surface if the need arises. In the worst-case scenario, they can also expect fire support from the surface so it¡¯s a good place for them to conclude the first phase of the battle. At Schleer¡¯s command, all ships turned back and fired their thrusters. Without missing that chance, the enemy cruisers who were taking their distance immediately chased after them. The rear guns of the [Radiant] began firing at the enemy ships to keep them away. ¡°Use alternate fire to save our ammunition. Even a large cruiser can be sunk with a well-placed AP round.¡± It¡¯s pretty dangerous to approach a battleship in space but large cruisers including an old-fashioned one like the [Radiant] still have high firepower. At worst, they might even take advantage of their speed and block their path. Moreover, the Calencian side also wanted to save their particle bullets for the enemy battleships. ¡°Contact Kisei and the others, tell them to be ready to sortie at any time.¡± Calencia has an overwhelmingly inferior number of battleships. If they want to buy time, they will have to resort to their trump card again. While apologizing to Kisei in her heart, Schleer gave her order. This battle will probably be the climax of the first phase. Thinking so, Schleer slapped her cheeks to fire herself up. CH 240 Gloom ¡°Master, is your body all good?¡± On their way to the D field, in the cockpit of [Ex-Caliburn], Diaroze asked in worry. Their 2 hours break was better than nothing but 2 hours would be too short to get rid of his fatigue. ¡°It¡¯s not 100 percent but well, I can fight.¡± Kisei answers while stifling a yawn. ¡°Really? Master¡¯s not that physically fit after all. You can¡¯t push yourself okay.¡± ¡°Place a little more trust in me will you.¡± Seeing Diaroze genuinely worried about him, a smile unintentionally floated to his face. It¡¯s true that he¡¯s not physically strong but Kisei is still a veteran mercenary. Naturally, he has experienced long battles before. ¡°I¡¯m telling you, I¡¯m fine. Who do you think I am?¡± ¡°[Wicked Star].¡± ¡°Exactly.¡± Kisei snorted. And this time it was Diaroze¡¯s turn to smile. ¡°That said, this is still the first phase of the operation. Reserving your stamina is important. With how inferior our fleets are, relying on Master is inevitable after all.¡± ¡°Well, with how many ships our enemy has, this probably won¡¯t end any time soon huh.¡± ¡°That¡¯s right. We have a two-seater here so it might be better if you switch me in some time. I might not be as good as Master but I do have confidence in my skills you know.¡± ¡°That would depend on the situation though.¡± Kisei personally doesn¡¯t like the idea of handing over the control to Diaroze. He doesn¡¯t want to show her his pathetic side. Even Kisei has a side of him that wants to look cool in front of the people he likes. ¡°Still, first phase huh¡­¡­¡­we are going to lure the enemy to the surface after this right?¡± Kisei decided to change the subject so he brought up what he could remember from the briefing. They still have some time before they reach the active combat zone so it¡¯s fine for them to chat for a while. ¡°Umu, we will fight them in low orbit for a while and descend to the surface letting the enemy think that we¡¯re retreating. After that we¡­¡­.¡± ¡°What?¡± ¡°¡­¡­.the rest is a secret.¡± ¡°A secret!?¡± Confused, Kisei looked back at Diaroze. The area they are flying in is free of asteroids or any random debris. There¡¯s no problem even if he takes his eyes off the monitor for a little. On the other hand, Diaroze has a terribly apologetic look on her face. It seems that wasn¡¯t a joke. Kisei may be able to feel others¡¯ thoughts through the I-con system but he can¡¯t completely understand what they are thinking so he groans with a difficult expression. ¡°Honestly, it¡¯s not that respectable of a strategy. I know that it will eventually get out but I still don¡¯t want to talk much about it.¡± ¡°Even worse than your S*x tape plan?¡± Talking about not respectable, Diaroze¡¯s S*x tape plan is one as well. Kisei squints his eyes and stares at her. ¡°No, it¡¯s a different kind of unrespectable from that.¡± Fidgeting, Diaroze nervously answered. Seeing that, Kisei strokes the control stick while thinking to himself for a few seconds. It¡¯s not in the same vein as the S*x tape plan and Diaroze doesn¡¯t want to talk about it¡­¡­.. After he got to that point, Kisei stopped. It¡¯s probably the kind of strategy that will leave a bad aftertaste. He doesn¡¯t know what she¡¯s trying to do but with how overwhelming the enemy fleet is, a straightforward strategy won¡¯t win them this war. In the end, he couldn¡¯t say anything. ¡°Sorry, really. I¡¯m scared that Master might come to hate me if you know about it.¡± Diaroze gently strokes Kisei¡¯s hair. Truthfully, the plan she devised is pretty severe. However, she doesn¡¯t feel anything even when she¡¯s about to use it on her own mother. She does feel sorry for the soldiers that will be in the crossfire but that¡¯s it. Thinking how pathetic she is, Diaroze sighed. The Empress might be one cold-hearted monster but she¡¯s still her daughter. Perhaps a monster¡¯s daughter is also a daughter. Such thoughts are weighing on her mind. ¡°Me aside, I¡¯m more worried about you you know¡­¡­.¡± Even if he doesn¡¯t know what her plan is, he can see that she hates herself for it. Once again, Kisei directed a worried gaze at Diaroze. However, he doesn¡¯t have the time to comfort her. With an alarm sounding in the cockpit, the search radar detected several strikers approaching their location. When he looked at the monitor, the striker¡¯s names were displayed on it. ¡°Kisei-san, we¡¯ve come to pick you up.¡± It was the [Mistilteinn], [Zarava], and [Colbrand]. The voice from the communication was Schleer. She sounds slightly tired. ¡°The commander herself came to pick us up huh.¡± Before Kisei could reply, Diaroze raised her voice. Her ironic tone was void of the earlier dark atmosphere. ¡°Escorting a gentleman is a knightly manner after all.¡± Diaroze laughs a little at Schleer¡¯s reply before turning to Kisei. ¡°It seems she¡¯s exhausted from taking command and came here for your healing presence, Master.¡± CH 241 How to Deal with Battleships ¡°So¡­¡­what¡¯s our mission? Escorting the fleet?¡± Kisei departed from the space carrier he was on but he did not hear the details of the operation yet. He can somewhat guess from the fact that Schleer personally came out here though. ¡°That will be Eleanor-san and Tersis-san.¡± ¡°¡­¡­so, My Lord will act separately huh.¡± Tersis asked back. Naturally, not only Kisei and Diaroze, the rest were told sortie. However, this time it seems they will have to act separately. A hint of dissatisfaction can be detected in Tersis¡¯s tone. ¡°Kisei and I will be launching an attack on the enemy battleships. The enemy has that many battleships after all. We need to weaken them as much as we can before the enemy main force gets here.¡± ¡°Anti-ship battle huh¡­¡­.so you want to blind them?¡± Groaned Diaroze. What comes to her mind was her battle at Leboir. Due to Kisei¡¯s effort, she lost many battleships to his attack. Kisei was taking out ships¡¯ fire control radars which greatly reduced the accuracy of her ships¡¯ main turrets. No matter how powerful a ship is, if it can¡¯t hit anything then it¡¯s just a chunk of iron. ¡°Yes. We will plunge at them and focus on destroying the FCR of their battleships. If we keep attacking then we should be able to target their weak points too.¡± Although a battleship usually comes with its characteristic thick armor plate, its radar can not receive the benefit of such armor. A common anti-ship weapon should be sufficient to disable them. However, they usually placed a large number of AA turrets near the radar, it won¡¯t be easy¡­¡­¡­..that¡¯s why they need skillful pilots for this task. ¡°My striker is perfect for a mission like this. Besides, the fact that the commander is on the field will boost morale too.¡± ¡°I see, I understand.¡± Eleanor nods. She then turns a stern gaze toward the [Colbrand]. It¡¯s a jet-black Zenith that looks just like [Caliburn-Revive]. It was prepared for Valentina who lost her [Ortho Kratzer]. ¡°But my striker is of the same type as yours, that would make me suitable for this mission as well. Instead of Valentina-sama, please let me go with you.¡± Valentina is by no way weak in terms of piloting skill but she¡¯s still inferior to the 4 Heavenly. Moreover, the [Colbrand] may be a Zenith but in terms of performance, it is far inferior to the exclusive strikers of the 4 Heavenly. She probably won¡¯t drag Kisei¡¯s feet but Eleanor truly worries that Valentina might not be good enough to protect him. ¡°There¡¯s a reason why it has to be me and Schleer. Not only Calencians, there are also a lot of former Noredian soldiers in this operation after all.¡± However, Valentina already expected such a protest so she has already prepared a retort. ¡°Rather, isn¡¯t it fine if all of us just go together?¡± With a difficult expression, Tersis proposed. After all, she¡¯s piloting a highly specialized striker. She can make wonders in anti-striker combats but she can¡¯t do anything against a ship. That¡¯s why it¡¯s kinda hard for her to tell Schleer to take her with them¡­¡­..However, rushing at the enemy is Tersis¡¯s favorite kind of mission so she wants to go with them if possible. ¡°We can¡¯t afford that. The enemy fleet will be attacking us with their smaller ships and strikers as well. For the time being, Nora is handling them but¡­¡­there¡¯s a limit to what a single ace can do.¡± In the previous battle, she was made keenly aware of her fleet¡¯s lack of AA capability. It would be impossible for her fleet to survive with the assigned escorts alone. Moreover, the enemy will have many space carriers among their many ships. It¡¯s certain that the striker combat will be pretty intense as well. That¡¯s where the 4 Heavenly come in. With their help, the fleet should be able to fend off the smaller-sized enemies. ¡°Muh¡­¡­.¡± ¡°Sorry about this.¡± Valentina sincerely apologized to Tersis and the others. In this situation where they can not fully trust the loyalty of their subordinates, it would be wise to inspire awe in the soldiers by showing the might of the 4 Heavenly. Besides, the 4 Heavenly seems to have taken Calencia¡¯s side even more than Valentina. ¡°I¡¯ve familiarized myself with this striker so I will be fine. I won¡¯t show our soldiers any shameful display.¡± Valentina had been training with her new striker until the enemy attacked. Although its performance is inferior to that of her old personal striker, it¡¯s not like it¡¯s a bad striker so confidence can be felt through her voice. ¡°If you say that much then I will trust you. I¡¯m counting on you, Lady Valentina.¡± Tersis seems a little bitter but she agrees to her assignment. After that, she fired her thruster and flew back to the main fleet with Eleanor following behind her. ¡°Very well, let us be off then.¡± Schleer said with a voice filled with fighting spirit. CH 242 Battleships and Strikers 1 Kisei and the others fly through the volcanic-eruption-like gunfire from the enemy AA turrets. The defensive formation the enemy deployed to defend their battleships is very strong and even skilled pilots could be shot down in less than 10 seconds. ¡°Alright¡­¡­this is getting exciting!¡± In order to sew through the gap between the AA fire, one needs monster-like reflexes, swift judgment, and precise control of their striker. Even someone as confident as Valentina is sweating cold as she maneuvers her control stick. If she let up for even a moment, she was sure that her striker would be turned into swiss cheese. ¡°Kukuku, if you¡¯re that scared then you can stay back you know. Even I would lose some sleep if my sister dies after all. No need to push yourself.¡± Diaroze¡¯s tone was a teasing one. Her words were provocative but there was also some sincerity in them. That said, since she¡¯s sitting back and letting Kisei do all the work here, the other party just couldn¡¯t take her seriously at all¡­¡­.. ¡°Hmph, I really don¡¯t want to hear that from a literal dead weight though. If you hop off, his striker would probably be 100 kilos lighter don¡¯t you think?¡± ¡°I¡¯m not that heavy!!¡± Diaroze turned moody. She was gaining weight recently because she didn¡¯t move around much. Even for Vulds, weight is still a sensitive topic. While smiling bitterly at the silly sisterly exchange that seems so out of place on a battlefield, Kisei shot his mega blaster rifle at the bridge of an enemy battleship. The radar dish was exposed to the heat from charged particles and exploded. ¡°Our Fire Control Radar is down, ma¡¯am!¡± ¡°What are you doing! This amount of enemies, just shoots them down quickly!¡± Agonizing cries rose from the battleship. Still, since their gigantic fleet of battleships is being toyed with by such a small number of enemies that they normally can get rid of in no time, it is unavoidable for the commander to get frustrated at their lack of progress. ¡°Our Optical Rangefinder was also destroyed! We can no longer aim our main turrets, Ma¡¯am!¡± ¡°Damn it all¡­¡­!¡± Kisei and his comrades are also targeting the huge laser rangefinder installed on top of the bridge so they have no way to measure the exact distance between themselves and the enemy ships. With that being the case, long-range shooting is impossible. The less powerful mini rangefinders that came with each of the main turrets are also useless. ¡°Just shoot those strikers down for the time being! If we let them go back unscathed then Her Majesty¡¯s wrath will be upon us!!¡± Various AA turrets spewed out beams and shells in response to the fleet commander¡¯s order but Kisei skillfully took a sharp turn with his striker and avoided them all. It was a splendid maneuver. ¡°Kisei-san, please don¡¯t overdo it.¡± Schleer pleaded in a worried voice. She still remembers how he was hospitalized back in Leboir when he was exposed to a heavy G which damaged his lungs. It was Schleer herself who proposed this operation so it¡¯s natural that she would feel responsible. ¡°It will be fine. If it¡¯s this striker then I can keep going!¡± Kisei grinned and replied. The striker he used back at Leboir was [Caliburn-Revive] but this time he¡¯s using its evolved form, [Ex-Caliburn]. And the difference it made is huge. ¡°The inertial control installed in [Ex-Caliburn] was the same one I had on my [Zentis]. It¡¯s a world apart from some outdated bumpkin Zenith so don¡¯t worry about it.¡± ¡°I don¡¯t know if I should feel relieved or angry here but¡­..we will, SEE!¡± With the last part of her words, Schleer fired the blaster cannon on the [Mistilteinn]¡¯s shoulder. Her target is another battleship. Her aim was true and the thick beam completely destroyed its radar dish. A myriad of AA turrets fired back at her instantly after and the [Mistilteinn] got some scratches on its armor but with its heavy armor, such scratches didn¡¯t even faze Schleer. ¡°Hah, even a bumpkin Zenith can fight with a decent pilot in it!¡± ¡°So you¡¯re not gonna deny the bumpkin part huh¡­¡­..¡± Diaroze exasperatedly shrugs. Almost at the same time, an alarm sounded inside the cockpit of [Ex-Caliburn]. [[Enemy Craft Incoming, Enemy Craft Incoming]] The AI reported in a dry voice. However, even before that, Kisei was already turned to intercept them. He turned the mega blaster rifle¡¯s huge muzzle toward the approaching [Jetta]. ¡°Ah, let me take care of it!¡± However, the [Colebrand]¡¯s spear has pierced the [Jetta]¡¯s abdomen before he could pull the trigger. With a kick to its crimson armor, Valentina kicked the first one away and used the blaster gun attached to the base of her spear to take down the second one. ¡°Thanks!¡± Her words before the operation gained creditablity as she truly seemed like she had familiarized herself with her new striker. If so then it would be okay to leave his back to her. Convinced, Kisei nodded to himself. CH 243 Battleships and Strikers 2 Kisei and his group continue to tirelessly attack the Noredian battleships. Their Zeniths dance like butterflies toying with the Noredian AA turrets. Meanwhile, as the AA turrets were focusing on Kisei and the other aces, the Calencian pilots were also attacking. Naturally, the Noredians did not take that lying down and counterattacked but the Calencians simply shot once and withdrew back without overextending themselves. This strategy was truly a pain for the Noredians to deal with. ¡°What are our escorts doing!¡± The fleet commander yelled. The proud Noredian fleet is being toyed with by merely 3 Zenith-type strikers. Such disparity obviously invites the suspicion that her subordinates are being negligent. ¡°Our strikers are fending off the attack from the enemy fleet, Ma¡¯am. With our own Zeniths dispatched to the enemy fleet, the strikers we have left can only do so much.¡± One of the staff members answered with an expression that literally says [It¡¯s your own damn order.] Since they have more than 30 battleships and several times more auxiliary ships, the commander thought that they could do without that many strikers as their escort. ¡°Ugh¡­¡­.what¡¯s the progress of our striker unit! It¡¯s about time they¡¯re done on that side and come back right!¡± ¡°It seems that the enemy escorts are putting up heavy resistance so they still can¡¯t get through, Ma¡¯am. From the report, it appears that Tersis-sama herself is leading their escorts¡­¡­..my apology but including Tersis-sama, 3 of the 4 Heavenly are currently guarding the enemy fleet.¡± ¡°Guh¡­..damn you Tersis!¡± The fleet commander groaned. She was a Duchess, the same rank as Tersis, and was of the same age. She originally has a kind of rivalry with Tersis but that is now made worse by the fact that Tersis has allied herself with Calencia. The commander stood up from her seat and harshly threw her cap on the floor. ¡°Useless fools! Fine, I will do it myself!!¡± The commander also has a Zenith. She certainly is skillful but can she really beat the monsters that can easily toy with their numerous AA turrets? Her staff wondered but didn¡¯t voice their doubt out loud. After all, letting the [Ex-Caliburn] and other enemy Zeniths do as they pleased any longer would be bad for them. With a snort, the commander headed for the hangar and jumped into her personal striker. Flying out from the launch deck, her target was, of course, Kisei and the others. ¡°Kukuku, she came out unexpectedly early huh. That one is a big shot you know.¡± Diaroze said with a grin when she saw the approaching Zenith. ¡°That striker belongs to Duchess Angel. One of the most powerful aristocrats of Nored. She¡¯s not on Tersis¡¯s level but her skill can easily be put on ace-class¡­¡­¡­¡± Even so, a pilot with ace-class ability still won¡¯t be nearly enough to take Kisei. She didn¡¯t say that out loud but Diaroze was all smiles as she watched Duchess Angel accelerating toward them. ¡°So it¡¯s our chance to demolish their morale huh.¡± ¡°Exactly! Just take her down in single combat!¡± ¡°If it¡¯s a duel then leave it to m¨C.¡± ¡°No, please leave this to me.¡± Schleer and Valentina immediately offered but Diaroze simply shrugged with a smirk. ¡°If she gets shot down by a man then it would serve as a better humiliation right?¡± ¡°Up to no good as always huh¡­¡­.¡± ¡°Kufufu.¡± Diaroze blushed and laughed at Kisei¡¯s comment. Kisei was a little exasperated but it¡¯s true that he¡¯s better at single combat. He trained his mega blaster rifle on the approaching green Zenith and declared. ¡°This is Hokuto Kisei of Calencia! Commander of Noredian Fleet, I challenge you to a duel!¡± ¡°A, A man¡­¡­!?¡± The commander was confused as she gazed at the [Ex-Caliburn] but as noble etiquette dictated, she must name herself in response. The commander clears her throat and shouts in a loud voice. ¡°I accept! I am Lean Angel, Duchess of Eliden, Admiral of the 2nd Nored Fleet!¡± ¡°She accepted huh.¡± With a grin, Diaroze muttered in a small voice. She sneakily operated the console and switched the communication channel from the open channel to private laser communication. She then whispered something into Kisei¡¯s ear. ¡°Ehh¡­¡­¡± Kisei looked taken aback for a moment but he shrugged and nodded before speaking into the mic. ¡°Duchess Angel! I¡¯ve heard a lot about you from my wife.¡± ¡°Wife¡­¡­.?¡± ¡°Yes, my wife, Tersis von Melemheim!¡± ¡°Wh, What!!¡± Hearing the name of her rival, Duchess Angel¡¯s fuse immediately blew. Her face was bright red as she stepped on the foot pedal. ¡°I¡¯ve never heard that she got herself a husband!¡± ¡°We just recently got engaged.¡± ¡°Ugh! She got one earlier than me! Unforgivable!¡± Diaroze gave a muffled laugh to the duchess¡¯s raging voice. Indeed, there¡¯s almost no redeeming her personality. ¡°¡­¡­.! Fine, but if you lose to me I will have you become mine instead!¡± Why? Kisei groaned with a bitter expression but Diaroze simply patted him on his shoulder. ¡°There¡¯s no situation more exciting than robbing a man from your rival right. That said, you think she will be able to maneuver properly with that much blood in her head? Kufufu¡­¡­.¡± While groaning to himself, Kisei gave his reply to the duchess. He wasn¡¯t so thrilled to bring up the topic of his marriage in a place like this but since it¡¯s involved with the duel, he has to do it. ¡°¡ª¨CThen once again, I, Hokuto Kise, [Ex-Caliburn], challenge you to a duel!¡± ¡°Lean Angel, [Dilkas]! Accepted the duel!¡± And thus the duel with pretty much an obvious result began. CH 244 The Empress Advances ¡°Duchess Angel was defeated!?¡± Nored Empress, Villenia Rendar Argarine, jumps out of her bed and shouts. She was in the middle of a nap but the report from her subordinate was simply too outrageous to hear. ¡°Yes¡­¡­¡­.¡± The staff who brought in the report affirmed in a frightened manner. ¡°She was defeated in a duel and was taken prisoner by the Calencians¡­¡­, Your Majesty.¡± ¡°I can understand being defeated in a duel but why was she captured!!¡± Alarmed by the worsening situation, the commander went out to the frontline to maintain morale and got defeated. It was idiotic but she could understand the logic. However, being captured by the enemy is beyond that. What were the soldiers doing? The Empress was frustrated. ¡°Does my army only consist of incompetents? They have more than 30 new battleships you know! With that much force, they should be able to win half-sleep.¡± Let alone half asleep, you were soundly sleeping earlier weren¡¯t you, the staff thought but didn¡¯t say it out loud. Well, it is a long battle, even the Empress needs her breaks. ¡°Seriously, each and every one of you!¡± Fuming, the Empress got up. The fleet that lost its commander would be in chaos and she can¡¯t leave that alone. The Empress¡¯s chamberlain silently dresses the Empress in her military uniform. Even though they are overwhelmingly at the advantage, this is still a real war. Naturally, the Empress can¡¯t just go out there in her sleepwear. With the jacket, she was ready to head to the bridge. ¡°So¡­¡­.how is the situation on the front.¡± ¡°The Angel fleet did not lose any of their ships in the attack but it appears that they suffered major damage from the attack from the enemy strikers, Your Majesty. On the advancing side, our troops still can not get to the enemy¡¯s capital ship¡­¡­.¡± ¡°They lost despite everything huh they have huh. Damn greenhorn. I will put them to the guillotine later.¡± The other side is a great aristocrat so even the Empress can not just execute her. Still, she has to let her pent-up frustration out somehow.¡± ¡°But, it might be a good thing that they still can¡¯t engage the enemy main force yet. Even with a superior number, a fleet that lost its commander would be exploited easily.¡± The weakness of a Vuld army is that it will be greatly weakened when its commander is defeated. In this case, the Angel fleet is nothing more than a collection of nobles¡¯ ships. With the top authority out of the picture, they will just turn into a disorganized crow that can¡¯t cooperate with each other. ¡°It¡¯s a shame but there¡¯s no other way. Take us forward¡­¡­.¡± Although the number of fleets under the direct control of the Empress is small compared to the aristocrats¡¯, the Empress¡¯s fleets still have the best personnel and equipment. Moreover, due to the feudal system, the chain of command is not complicated as they know who¡¯s truly in charge, unlike the aristocratic fleets which are simply a group of aristocrats bunched together. That¡¯s why the Empress was confident that even with her fleets alone, she could still win against the whole Calencians army. She was only staying in the rear just for precaution. ¡°Your Majesty, the location of the Angel fleet is quite far away from ours. Would we be able to make it in time?¡± At the time when the commander was defeated, the Calencians did not stay still. The Angel fleet will surely suffer no small damage by the time they arrive. Thinking so, the staff asked with a concerned look. ¡°What, it¡¯s a nice opportunity, isn¡¯t it. The Calencians also have their limits. They should already be pretty much exhausted by the battles so far. Moreover, if they engage the Angel fleet head-on, they will surely be low on ammunition. It wouldn¡¯t be strange if they ran out of ammo by the time we arrive.¡± Said the Empress with a nasty grin. She¡¯s the leader of a superpower and her predictions are pretty much always accurate. The current Calencian fleets do not have enough supply for two consecutive battles against a fleet as big as the Angel¡¯s. ¡°Besides, what losses would I suffer when the only ones damaged were the aristocrats. Depending on how damaged they are, I can just take their territories after all.¡± Rather, it would be convenient if the aristocrats suffer moderately. A cruel smile floated on the Empress¡¯s face as she spoke in a joyful tone. Both the staff and the chamberlain¡¯s faces cramped up to the Empress¡¯s selfish words but they did not say anything. They were not brave enough to comment on this brutal Empress who casually put people to the guillotine. If they go out of line, who to say their entire families won¡¯t be slaughtered. ¡°More importantly, are the fleets and the imperial guards ready? I want to enter the fray at the most convenient time possible. Have them ready themselves.¡± The best timing for her fleets to enter the battle would be when the Angel fleet starts to rout. If she sets up a counterattack from the flank when the enemy tries to pursue them then she can just swoop in and reap the reward. In the first place, although they have lost their commander, who to say that the Angel fleet can not push the enemy back with their superior number. In that case, she would have to race against them and take the enemy¡¯s commander¡¯s head herself. Anyway, she can not afford to miss her opportunity. ¡°The [Odelcrois] as well as all our ships are ready to advance at your command, Your Majesty.¡± ¡°Very well.¡± The Empress satisfactorily replied. CH 245 The Captured Duchess ¡°Grrrrr¡­¡­¡­losing to a man, what a disgrace¡­¡­.!¡± Screamed Duchess Lean Angel in her green Zenith which has a big hole in its abdomen. At the moment, her striker is being towed by Kisei with his wire gun. ¡°Kukuku, quite a sorry sight you¡¯re in, Duchess.¡± Sure enough, Diaroze responded with a joyful smile. She calls herself a masochist who derives joy from being abused but she also enjoys abusing others as well. ¡®There¡¯s really no helping her personality huh¡¯ Kisei muttered under his breath. ¡°That¡¯s what you get when you jump into battle in such a state you know? It should serve as a good lesson for you, Duchess Angel.¡± ¡°Kuh, how underhanded¡­¡­..!¡± As a result of Diaroze¡¯s provocation, the duchess lost her cool and was defeated in under a minute. Kisei instantly slipped in through her opening and pierced her striker with his pile bunker. Moreover, now that she¡¯s captive, there¡¯s no way out for her anymore. ¡°¡­¡­.Rather, that voice, is that you, Your Highness Diaroze?¡± ¡°So you can tell huh. Fumu, indeed, it is I.¡± With her being a high-ranking aristocrat, it¡¯s almost impossible that she has never met Diaroze before. Naturally, Diaroze herself was also acquainted with the duchess. ¡°N, No way¡­¡­.you betrayed the empire!?¡± ¡°Umu, Umu, that is exactly right! Kukukukuku!¡± ¡°How could this be!? Not only the 4 Heavenly but you as well!? Just what is going on¡­¡­¡­¡± Duchess Angel held her head. She¡¯s already noticed that this war was quite unusual but she was still clueless about what was actually going on and Diaroze isn¡¯t going to fill her in either. With a grin, Diaroze gazed behind her striker. The Angel fleet is already a certain distance away. Their AA turrets no longer target them as they¡¯ve already exited their range. ¡°That should be enough right, Schleer.¡± The operation to destroy the enemy fire control radar was mostly successful. While Kisei and the aces rampaged, their soldiers had been attacking the enemy ships using the brief openings they created. It was a hit-and-run strategy. In a sense, the 3 Zeniths were simply a decoy while the real attack was being carried out by the soldiers piloting the mass-produced strikers. Fortunately, most of the enemy ships were focusing on Kisei and the two and the plan went swimmingly. In the first place, for this many of their pilots to survive in an operation of strikers vs a whole fleet is quite unusual. ¡°Yes, it should be enough. We can¡¯t afford to overextend ourselves and get shot down after all.¡± A tired voice came from the [Mistilteinn] which flew up next to them. The barrage of AA turrets from over 30 battleships and their escort ships felt like they were flying toward a literal wall of bullets. When they managed to leave the enemy behind, Schleer was already exhausted both mentally and physically. ¡°Besides, ¡­¡­¡­I received a report from Galea-E that our missile vessels are already on standby at the satellites. It¡¯s about time we conclude the first phase.¡± There are several natural satellites orbiting Galea-E. They are not as big as Terra¡¯s moon but they serve as temporary deployment bases for their missile vessels which have short cruising range. Schleer has stationed several units there to compensate for the inferior number on Calencia¡¯s side. ¡°Soon the enemy fleet will rush our main force. We don¡¯t have time to rest.¡± Valentino said as she put on a brave face. Diaroze is worried that she might be pushing herself but the one who¡¯s pushing themselves is not only Valentina. Kisei¡¯s complexion is also not that good. ¡°Right. But our ammunition is already scarce. Let¡¯s head back to the carrier and resupply first.¡± It would be dangerous for them to return to ships that are in the middle of combat like the [Radiant]. Since the enemy is trying to get through and attack the fleet, they can not afford to land on the ships at the frontline. The space carrier that Kisei rested at earlier was stationed in the rear so they can safely resupply there. ¡°Umu, that¡¯s a good idea. We can stash this idiot there too. We can¡¯t fight with a POW in tow after all.¡± ¡°EHH!?¡± Duchess Angel raised her voice in surprise. ¡°A space carrier? Me!?¡± Space carriers usually are for commoner troops. Naturally, they have no facility to house high-ranking aristocrats. It is dictated that aristocratic POWs must be treated befitting their status¡­¡­..but given their current situation, they can¡¯t afford to do that right now. ¡°You are putting a duchess there huh¡­¡­¡± Recalling the dirty lounge of the space carrier, Kisei let out a small smile. However, since Tersis and Eleanor, who was a Duchess and Countess respectively, just rested there, there¡¯s no choice but to ask Duchess Angel to put up with it. ¡°Well, we will release you once the war is over so just put up with it for a while.¡± ¡°No way¡­¡­..¡± Duchess Angel moaned in a defeated tone. CH 246 Battleship Showdown 1 By the time Kisei and the others finished resupplying and headed back to the frontline, the battleships on both sides had already opened fire on each other, it was an exchange of deadly colorful rays of light. ¡°Yeah, no one would want to get in the middle of that. Let¡¯s focus on guarding our fleets.¡± The powerful beams that are being exchanged right now have enough power to sink a small ship with just a graze. If they wander about in the middle of such an exchange with their strikers then they might end up losing their lives to some stray shots. Valentina¡¯s proposal was very reasonable. No matter what Valentina may think of Schleer, Schleer is still the current commander of the entire Calencian fleet. They can¡¯t afford to let her get shot down by some lucky hit. ¡°Right¡­¡­.what¡¯s the battle situation?¡± The latter half was not directed toward Valentina but the staff on the [Radiant] which is now engaging the enemy. The battlefield is filled with jamming signals from both their allies and enemies but they can still use short-range laser communication without any problem. ¡°It appears that the enemy still can not reorganize themselves yet. Moreover, many of their ships have their FCR disabled¡­¡­.I believe that we are about even, Your Highness.¡± The person who responded was Solana. The entire fleet is currently being commanded by high-ranking staff like her. Terran generals may think of this situation as absurd but it is not unusual for a Vuld commander to take to the field. Even if you call them a commander, it¡¯s mostly just in name¡­¡­a banner in which her soldiers have to rally behind. ¡°Even huh¡­¡­¡± Schleer muttered while looking at the enemy fleet. Some of their ships are fighting back fiercely while others were still in confusion. the defeat of Duchess Angel who was the fleet commander caused great disturbance among their ranks. The direct subordinates of the Duchess in particular are probably in a panic. Since they do not know which ship held their master, they can not poorly attack their enemy since they might accidentally blow away their duchess after all. ¡°For them to be able to put up an even fight in a situation like this, we will have to give it to them huh.¡± In the end, the Angel fleet is gigantic. Many ships are shooting at them without care for the duchess¡¯s wellbeing. Moreover, it¡¯s not like they managed to destroy all of the enemy FCR and some of the Calencian battleships already received a direct hit. ¡°We need another push huh. Maybe, well, ¡­¡­.it¡¯s about time we use that tape? I don¡¯t really want to but that thing will definitely be effective.¡± The ¡®tape¡¯ was of course the AV starring Diaroze and Kisei. The suggestion came from Valentina but she seems to be terribly embarrassed to bring it up. On the other hand, the person who¡¯s actually in it, like Kisei, immediately turned bright red. ¡°Are we really going to use it, that thing¡­¡­.¡± ¡°I understand why you are hesitating, I¡¯m the same¡­¡­.rotten as she is, she¡¯s still my sister. But if this keeps on going then we will eventually be at a disadvantage.¡± ¡°Well, I understand but¨C¡­.¡± Kisei let out a small sigh. It¡¯s still embarrassing. ¡°Don¡¯t worry. You don¡¯t have to be afraid that you can no longer be a groom anymore. I¡¯m always willing to accept you after all.¡± ¡°Sorry for interrupting but we¡¯re not going to use that tape yet you know.¡± Diaroze, who sensed that the conversation was rearing toward an undesirable direction, interrupted. Diaroze herself aside, both Kisei and Schleer are not good at holding secrets. There¡¯s no way to know when the two might crumble under pressure. ¡°It¡¯s a plan designed to demoralize the enemy so its effectiveness will depend on the timing. In a situation. There¡¯s a big difference between giving the enemy a shock when they think they are winning and when they have the leeway to shrug it off after all.¡± ¡°I think it would be very hard for them to shrug something like that off though¡­¡­.¡± The worst kind of scandal involved the Empress¡¯s own daughter. There¡¯s no doubt that the effect will be nuclear. ¡°Well, it will certainly improve our odds here but¡­¡­since we went out of our way to tape it, I want to use it at the most effective time possible. In short, I want the Empress to completely lose her cool when she sees it.¡± ¡°I see¡­¡­.it¡¯s true that if we use it to repel the Angel fleet, the fleets under the Empress will be unaffected. We can¡¯t afford to fight two consecutive battles with fleets that large after all.¡± ¡°That¡¯s right. Besides, a single video can¡¯t make the whole army tuck their tail and run after all.¡± In any case, they do not have nearly enough firepower to annihilate all their enemies. Even if the tape is a powerful trump card, they have to use it carefully. ¡°Well, since we¡¯ve already got her, let¡¯s make use of Duchess Angel¡¯s name here. We can emit a signal telling them that she¡¯s on board our flagship. That way the enemy won¡¯t dare attack the [Radiant].¡± ¡°U, Using her as a hostage? You¡¯re as underhanded as always¡­¡­¡± Valentina disdainfully moaned but Diaroze was unfazed. ¡°Wasn¡¯t it you who said that you don¡¯t mind whatever method you have to use? Hmm?¡± ¡°Ugh¡­¡­¡± Schleer¡¯s face cramped up at the tension-filled exchange between sisters. She was glad that none of her sisters have this kind of personality. Still, what Diaroze said was correct. Using the laser communication line that¡¯s still connected to the [Radiant], Schleer relays the plan to them. CH 247 Battleship Showdown 2 Reading the light signal from the [Radiant], flagship of the Calencian main force, the staff members of the Angel fleet were holding their heads. After all, as though she is not as good as the 4 Heavenly, Duchess Angel is still a skilled pilot. They had never expected her to be defeated so easily and taken hostage. ¡°Using hostages, what a coward! Do these bumpkins know nothing of chivalry¡­¡­!¡± ¡°But we can¡¯t do anything now. If we accidentally shoot the duchess by mistake it will be on us.¡± The staff of the Angel fleet of course consisted of vassals to the Angel house. If the duchess loses her life as a result of their attack, they would be executed with no question. ¡°In the first place, is Her Excellency truly on board that ship? If that was simply an enemy plot then they would be playing us for fools you know.¡± ¡°However, it is true that Her Excellency was captured. If they transport her by a striker then we have no way to confirm it¡­.should we not operate on the premise that Her Excellency is truly on board?¡± ¡°True, it¡¯s something we can not risk after all¡­¡­..¡± The middle-aged chief of staff groaned with a difficult expression. ¡°Even so, we can not afford to let this situation continue¡­¡­.¡± The moment one of the staff members muttered so, a tremor rocked the ship. The staff did their best to cling to their seats to not get shaken off. ¡°Direct hit! Main turret No.1 is wrecked, ma¡¯am!¡± ¡°I, I¡¯m glad they didn¡¯t hit the depot¡­¡­..¡± The captain stroked her chest in relief. The ammunition depot was located directly below the main turrets and it stores a large number of particle ammunition cartridges filled with compressed particles. If that place receives a direct hit, even a battleship would blow up in a single shot. ¡°At this rate, let alone Her Excellency, we will be in danger ourselves! What do we do, ma¡¯am!¡± A young staff member yelled. Their fleet is currently locked in battle. If they remain indecisive in their actions, they will eventually get sunk. They can not let their guard down since the Calencians also have the latest model battleships from the defected fleet on their side. ¡°But¡­¡­¡­.¡± ¡°AHhhh!¡± A scream blocked out the reply of the middle-aged staff. At the same moment, the bridge crew turned their eyes to the screaming operator. ¡°Enemy flagship is under attack! At this rate, they might¨C¡­¡­!¡± A magnified image of the [Radiant] was put on the large monitor. As the operator reported, multiple rays of light were racing toward the chalk-white ship. For the time being, there was no direct hit but the fact that their mistress might be on board said ship sent a chill down their spine. ¡°Which ship fired at them! Tell them to stop the bombardment immediately!¡± ¡°It¡¯s Marchioness Maphtou¡¯s ship, ma¡¯am! I¡¯ve sent a ceasefire order but they refused to reply¡­¡­¡± ¡°What!? They are trying to use this chance to get rid of Lean-sama¡­¡­.!? The one that launched the attack was an aristocratic house that does have close ties with the Angel house. This is what happens when you show even the slightest of openings. One of the staff holds her head with a severe expression. Even if they all have the label of the Noredian army, the reality is that what they have here is just a collection of aristocrats. Even with a chain of command, the lower ranks aristocrats will not always obey their orders. There are even some that actively look out for a chance to undermine their peers. ¡°If it comes to this, how about we raise the white flag on our own? Multiple ships under our command already had their FC radar damaged. Even if we continue to fight, we will be at a disadvantage anyway.¡± ¡°Fumu¡­¡­.¡± The chief of staff groaned. Her job is to take command of the fleet in the absence of the duchess. However, as they can see from the Marchioness¡¯s actions, some of their subordinates do not plan to follow their command. ¡°In the first place, this war began with the Empress¡¯s whim. Win or lose, it won¡¯t have much effect on House Angel¡­¡­..given our situation, we should prioritize Lean-sama¡¯s safety first.¡± ¡°Agreed.¡± One of the staff members tuned in while the others nodded along. No one wants to die in a place like this. Besides, even if they choose to withdraw here, the one who will be blamed is not them but the duchess who pathetically got herself defeated. When they can simply shift the blame, there¡¯s no reason for them to risk their life uselessly. ¡°However, what do we do if our fleet continues to attack the enemy flagship? I believe this [Radiant] is a fairly old ship. A lucky hit would be all that was needed to sink it¡­¡­¡­.¡± ¡°Seriously, they should just put Her Excellency on the [Odervansen]!¡± The Chief of Staff bitterly lamented. However, complaining won¡¯t improve their situation. ¡°At this range, we should be able to manage a laser communication. Let¡¯s negotiate with them to move Lean-sama to a safe place. We will tell them that all ships under House Angel are ready to surrender.¡± The motivation of a noble who has no stake in this war was extremely low. And Diaroze has already taken that into account with her plan. CH 248 Battleship Showdown 3 Multiple Noredian ships are withdrawing from battle while signaling their surrender. They are ships under House Angel and their vassals. Since they can not afford to risk killing their mistress, they probably had no other choice. ¡°Kukuku¡­..as I thought, their morale is pretty much nonexistent. To think that they would raise the white flag with just this much, how easy¡­¡­..¡± Diarzoe satisfactorily nodded to herself inside the cockpit of [Ex-Caliburn]. Nearly half of the enemy fleet has surrendered. Even if they dubbed the Angel fleet, most of them are aristocrats who have no close relationship with the duchess¡¯s house as the duchess herself was only given command of the fleet by the Empress. It is also honestly unexpected that this many enemy ships would choose to withdraw. ¡°I was hoping that they would do everything to get their mistress back though¡­¡­it seems they are not all that motivated huh.¡± Said Kisesi while sharply turning his striker. A red beam from an enemy blaster rifle flew past the place he was. In return, his green beam homed into the [Jetta] that fired at him and disabled it. Kisei and the others are currently fending off the enemy striker units at a distance from the Calencian main fleet. The enemy is constantly sending their anti-ship striker units to support their battleships¡¯ assault. It would be a waste of opportunity to be pushed back when they are gaining the upper hand so this is also an important task. ¡°I told you before¡­¡­.most of the aristocrats mobilized in this war were only those who had to be here to fulfill their military obligation. Most of them probably couldn¡¯t care less how this war turns out.¡± Vassals are obliged to dispatch troops at the aristocrats¡¯ request. The system is called military service. In return, the high-ranking aristocrats give them various benefits such as protection and the likes¡­¡­. Unfortunately, no aristocrats are that motivated to fight a war out of such obligation. In many cases, they would quickly surrender when the danger is upon them and quickly withdraw, choosing to pay reparation instead. ¡°I¡¯ve had my fair share of hard times dealing with these unmotivated aristocrats after all. Seriously, it¡¯s a nice feeling. Kufufu¡­¡­¡± A dark smile accompanies Diaroze¡¯s laugh. Seeing that, Kisei shrugged. No matter how strong he is, in the end, he¡¯s just a single mercenary, he can¡¯t possibly understand what she¡¯s gone through as a commander. Meanwhile, their fleets kept on bombarding the remaining enemy ships. Their gunfire looked like flashes of a camera. Green and red beams are making an impact on the enemy battleships. The Noredian also steadily fired back but with many of their ships having their FC radar destroyed, their counterattack was hardly effective. The battle was almost one-sided. ¡°Uuuh¡­¡­¡­¡± At that moment, one of the Noredian battleships got hit in its main turret and powerfully exploded. Their ammunition depot probably got hit. At a glance, it¡¯s good news but with such an explosion, the crew stationed near the main turrets would be dead. With the I-con relaying their death directly to Kisei, he involuntarily clenched his teeth. The unpleasant sensation of pain and sadness is gnawing on his brain. ¡°¡­¡­¡­..¡± It was horrible but he couldn¡¯t tell them to stop. If they let their guard down, the ones who will be hunted instead would be the Calencians and Valentina¡¯s soldiers. He wants to minimize the number of casualties but he also understands that a mediocre idealistic method would only bring more deaths. ¡°This is not fun at all, seriously.¡± All he can do is defeat the enemies in front of him without killing them. Thinking so, he accelerated his striker and closed in on a [Vil]. the [Vil tried to intercept his charge with a photon saber but couldn¡¯t make it. The pile bunker shot through its armor and pierced its phase transition turbine, killing its engine. ¡°Damn it! I haven¡¯t heard that such a monster would be here!¡± Little by little the Noredian strikers began to withdraw. Almost none of them wanted to throw their life away to get through Kisei. Like the Angel fleet, their morale also seems to be quite low. ¡°Ahhh, boring! This is not fun at all!¡± ¡°I¡¯m not one to say this but, Master, you¡¯re hard to please yourself you know¡­¡­.¡± Diaroze can¡¯t tell if her Master actually loves or hates battle. With a bitter expression, she looked at the radar screen. A large number of light dots are approaching them from a distance. ¡°Enemy reinforcement? No, that direction should be¡­¡­..¡± Diaroze shifted her eyes to the tactical map. The direction they are coming from was a satellite in which they stationed their allies at. ¡°The reinforcement Schleer mentioned huh. I see, so this is the last push¡­¡­.¡± As she surmised, the approaching dots were the Calencian missile vessels. Although they are only around 50 meters in size each, they are equipped with a large grenade launcher. They are capable of launching missiles that can deal major damage to battleships with a direct hit. The missile vessels are accelerating at full speed toward the enemy fleet. When they are already having their hand full dealing with Calencian battleships, the enemy would certainly find it difficult to fend off these missile vessels. Although some of the vessels were hit by secondary weapons and autocannons and destroyed, most of them managed to get inside their effective range. ¡°FIRE!¡± As soon as the commander of the missile vessel unit issued her command, their grenade launchers immediately opened fire. Large torpedo-looking missiles flooded toward the Noredian battleships. The enemy are trying to defend themselves using their AA turrets but they could not intercept all the missiles. The next moment, a number of huge fireballs rose on the battlefield. Some were directly hit on the stern and hull, smoke spews from their pierced armor plate. With such powerful missiles, even battleships as robust as the Noredian wouldn¡¯t be safe. Knowing that, their crews begin evacuating to their lifeboats. ¡°It¡¯s over now.¡± Diaroze gently stroked Kisei¡¯s shoulder. In return, only a weak [I see.] escaped his mouth. CH 249 Intuition With the missile vessels joining the fray, the Calencians immediately gained the upper hand. Meanwhile, the auxiliary ships such as destroyers and small-sized cruisers which were supposed to prevent this kind of attack already had their hand full not getting caught up by the bombardment from the battleships. As a result, most of the Noredian battleships were either half-destroyed due to the flood of missiles. They couldn¡¯t possibly get out of there safely with that many missiles fired at them. A number of them were sunk while the few that managed to stay safe chose to withdraw. ¡°Fumu, our side is doing better than I expected huh. Nah, maybe our enemy is just too naive?¡± Without celebrating their win, Diaroze lightly muttered to herself. Her gesture looked like she was caressing a whip in her hand but she soon realized that she didn¡¯t actually carry one and let out a bitter smile. After all, she had already given her favorite whip to Kisei. With nothing for her hands to play with, Diaroze started stroking Kisei¡¯s hair. Her touch was like she was handling a precious treasure. ¡°They really are not motivated for this huh¡­¡­¡­..their strikers have already withdrawn too. Should we head back to support our fleet?¡± The troops that had been engaging Kise¡¯s group until a while ago had already retreated with tails between their legs when they saw the situation. Thanks to that, he¡¯s bored to death. Moreover, with his mission being the interception of enemy strikers, he can not give chase to the fleeing enemies. ¡°It would be pointless to expect loyalty from commoners and lower aristocrats. That said, they will give it their all with a reward dangling in front of them or when their hometown and livelihood is threatened¡­¡­..in such cases, the Noredian army is truly strong.¡± It was very convincing coming from Diaroze who was on the invader side not too long ago. Kisei made a bitter smile at such a turnover. ¡°Still, these aristocrats are just a part of the opening act. Rather, we should be careful in time like this¡­¡­.¡± It was the moment Diaroze said that. Kisei¡¯s expression suddenly turned severe and he immediately powered his thrusters. Due to the sudden acceleration, Diaroze accidentally bit her tongue and is now in tears. ¡°Ouch ouch¡­¡­¡­¡± ¡°Ah, sorr-¡­¡­..¡± ¡°Kisei-san, what¡¯s the matter!¡± Faster than he could finish apologizing, Schleer¡¯s puzzled voice came in through the comm line. Schleer and Valentina were with Kisei on the mission to fend off the enemy strikers and destroyers. It was not a mission the commander herself should be doing but it couldn¡¯t be helped since they missed their chance to return to their fleets. ¡°More of them is coming! I have to stop them before they reach our battleships¡­..!¡± ¡°What!?¡± In a hurry, Schleer immediately scanned her radar. There is no enemy reaction but the Noredian¡¯s stealth technology can not be underestimated, not to mention the heavy communication jamming they are under. There is a good chance that the enemy managed to slip through and is approaching them as they speak so she elected to trust in Kisei¡¯s intuition. Thinking so, Schleer accelerated her striker, flying after Kisei with Valentina following behind her. ¡°This is bad, our ships are moving in to pursue the fleeing enemy!¡± ¡°New enemy huh. With this kind of timing, no matter how I think about it it must be Mother¡­¡­.the fleets under the direct control of the Empress. Their number aside, the quality of her soldiers should be incomparable to these riffraff aristocrats.¡± ¡°We can not afford to take a counterattack at this time. Chief, stop pursuing the enemy and withdraw the fleet immediately!¡± The Calencian main fleet is on the offensive pursuing the remnants of the Angel fleet. If the enemy flanks them while they are doing that, the damage will be catastrophic. Panicked, Schleer gave a withdrawal order. ¡°Anyway, we have to stop the enemy¡¯s advance. Which direction are they coming from?¡± With their technologies unreliable, they can only depend on Kisei¡¯s 6th sense. Schleer asked with a small growl. ¡°From I-field¡­¡­.sorry but I can only tell that much.¡± ¡°That¡¯s plenty. However, I¡¯ve stationed some of our allies in the I-field. The fact that there¡¯s still no report coming from them¡­¡­..¡± ¡°Maybe the enemy is jamming the communication, they might even get annihilated before they could warn us.¡± ¡°Ugh, if that¡¯s the case then it¡¯s truly the Empress after all.¡± If Diaroze is correct, they should expect the enemy to be fairly strong. Even their battle against the Angel fleet was not that one-sided. ¡°In any case, we need to do a recon to ascertain it right? I¡¯m going.¡± ¡°Umu¡­¡­some common recon unit would be wiped out in an instant after all. It¡¯s a pain but we will have to do this ourselves. To be honest, it would be best if we can switch Schleer and my foolish sister with 2 from the 4 Heavenly though.¡± ¡°Hmph, I can handle a simple recon mission just fine.¡± Unamused by her sister¡¯s comment, Valentina replied. On the other hand, Diaroze simply shrugs in silence. ¡°The 4 Heavenly are too far away right now¡­¡­we can¡¯t communicate with them using laser comm either. Rather than going back and wasting time, it would be better for us to go.¡± Schleer is right. If they keep loitering around, they won¡¯t be able to intercept the Empress¡¯s fleet in time. With a small sigh, Kisei stares off into the distant cosmic sky. CH 250 The Empress enters the battle ¡°So it ends up like this after all huh¡­..¡± That was what the Empress said as soon as she received the report of the Angel fleet¡¯s routing. A Vuld army normally became terribly vulnerable with the loss of its commander so she had predicted that it would come to this when she heard that Duchess Angel was defeated. ¡°Pathetic fools. Well, it¡¯s good that they lost so brilliantly. It saved me the trouble of purging those lazy parasites myself.¡± The Empress plays with her fan while saying so. She meant what she said. She may have looked displeased whenever she received the report of her subordinates¡¯ failure but when they went and got themselves defeated that badly, it brought a smile to her face. Still, her heart was still boiling like magma. ¡°Once this battle is over, we need to have a nationwide reorganizing of aristocrats. There are already too many of those commoner filths. I have no use for incompetent aristocrats. Purging the country clean of these garbages would be more beneficial¡­.¡± The Empress slammed her fan shut. Incompetent allies are more of a threat than competent enemies. It was her personal principle to purge such a threat quickly and thoroughly. ¡°First would be the remnants of the Angel fleet. They have sullied the Empire¡¯s name. Purging their entire houses wouldn¡¯t be enough as a punishment¡­¡­..¡± ¡°Reporting! The enemy¡¯s main force is retreating, Your Majesty!¡± ¡°What!?¡± The Empress¡¯s cruel train of thoughts was stopped by the frantic voice of the enemy search operator. With a blue vein on her forehead almost popped, the Empress asked her to elaborate. ¡°How far apart are we?¡± ¡°12,0000, Your Majesty.¡± ¡°Impossible, we have the state-of-the-art active stealth equipment. Under this much jamming, it should be impossible for them to detect us from that far. But¡­¡­¡­¡± Deceiving the radar of the Calencian outdated ships is a piece of cake while their advanced ships like the [Odervansen] and [Prussia] were originally built by Nored. A way to trick their radar in case of a rebellion has already been considered when they were built and is actively being used right now. ¡°Our search radar and quantum sonar did not pick any strange signal. It is highly unlikely that they have detected us through conventional means, Your Majesty¡­¡­.¡± ¡°But their movement is still too strange. They have won against such a large fleet, why give up the chance to pursue such fleeing enemies and earn accomplishment for themselves¡­¡­?¡± To be safe, the Empress had her fleet waiting at a safe distance until earlier. This is to launch a counterattack at the most opportune time which is the moment when the Calencians start pursuing the Angel fleet. The fact that her enemy has given up on such a good opportunity confused her. ¡°Perhaps they have already exhausted their ammunition? Their fleet had been fighting multiple consecutive battles. Maybe they do not have enough ammunition to extend themselves, Your Majesty?¡± One of the staff members suggested a possibility. And to some extent, it does make sense. The Calencian main fleet should be almost out of their ammunition. That much is clear given how long they have been fighting on the front line. ¡°That makes sense¡­¡­..and if that¡¯s true then we have no need to go out of our way to flank them. A direct assault would easily be enough to defeat them huh.¡± The Empress said with a grin. If she can hit the Calencians while their ammunition is exhausted and can¡¯t put up a fight then it would be a nice feeling for her. ¡°What is their course? Are they planning to run to another system or¡­¡­..¡± ¡°From the projection¡­¡­¡­they are retreating backward, Your Majesty. I believe they are heading to the planet Galea-E. ¡°So the insects prefer their burrow huh. Good, this will be easier to clean up.¡± If the Calencians turn tail and escape then it¡¯s possible that their fast-moving ships might be able to get away. The fact that they chose to fight on a planet that has no escape route is pleasant to her ears. After all, if she can annihilate the Calencian fleet here, she will be able to do pretty much whatever she wants with their country afterward. ¡°Perhaps the enemy is planning to have their last stand there? In that case, I believe that it would be dangerous for us to rush at Galea-E blind, Your Majesty.¡± ¡°No¡­..Rather, they might be aiming to exploit such hesitations. If Galea-E was that fortified in the first place then they would have no need to come out to face us in space¡­¡­¡­.¡± A space battle is one without cover. It¡¯s a place where you face your enemy head-on. There is little room to rely on defense equipment or strategy. That¡¯s why the side with fewer numbers will be always at a disadvantage. Nevertheless, the Calencians came out to fight her army in outer space. This information gives credit to the conjecture that her enemy can not sufficiently defend themselves on Galea-E. That or there¡¯s a reason the Calencians do not want to fight on the surface of Galea-E. ¡°At best, the planet¡¯s defensive equipment would be artillery¡­..more or less a fortress gun size. If that¡¯s the case then we should have no problem taking them on from the front. Giving the enemy time to prepare would be unwise. It would make the ammunition that the Angel fleet managed to exhaust go to waste huh?¡± The Empress said in a sarcastic tone. Some of her staff followed with an evil sneer. However, the enemy search operator¡¯s nervous voice echoed on the bridge again. ¡°Please wait! Enemy signals¡­there are striker signals approaching our fleet, Your Majesty.¡± ¡°Strikers? How many?¡± ¡°Three¡­¡­no, there are more than a dozen following behind them. Judging from the speed, the three in front are probably Zenith-type.¡± ¡° They are probably aiming for my head huh. But what do they think they can do with that number? Kuku, foolish Calencians¡­¡­.it seems they are quite cornered huh.¡± The number of enemies was too small and the Empress involuntarily broke into a smile. TLN: 250, only 50 more¡­¡­¡­.well, at this speed it would be in 10 weeks tho lol CH 251 Encounter ¡°Interceptors huh¡­¡­..as expected, they won¡¯t let us get close to the Empress that easily.¡± Diaroze groaned while staring at the radar screen. The screen was filled with noises from the jamming but at this distance, it is still somewhat useful. Thanks to this, now they can confirm the position of the enemy fleets. However, if they can confirm their enemy¡¯s location it means that the enemy can see them as well. A large number of strikers have been dispatched from the enemy fleet and are approaching them. ¡°It¡¯s been a while so I want to see the [Odercrois] myself but I guess there¡¯s no helping it.¡± If possible, she wanted to get closer to visually confirm that the Empress¡¯s ship is within their ranks but she doesn¡¯t want to push her luck. With her arms crossed, Diaroze glanced at Kisei¡¯s complexion. ¡°That [Odercrois], it¡¯s the flagship of the Noredian army right.¡± ¡°Umu, it¡¯s the Empress¡¯s personal battleship. It¡¯s the same type as my,¡­¡­¡­, no, it¡¯s no longer mine but it¡¯s the same type as the [Odervansen].¡± ¡°The same as that ship huh¡­¡­¡­fighting that kind of ship from the front would be harsh on our fleet right.¡± Knowing how great of a threat the [Odervansen] was, a bitter smile floated on Kisei¡¯s face. The current flagship of Calencia side is the [Radiant] is a huge battleship that looks like a cruiser. Of course, they also have the [Odervansen] on their side so it won¡¯t be so one-sided but the crew currently operating it is poorly trained and honestly, as it is right now, the ship is not all that reliable. ¡°Just like earlier, we can focus on disabling their FC radars though¡­¡­.¡± If they can destroy the enemy radars then they will gain a significant advantage in the upcoming battle. The reason why they were able to rout the Angel fleet was also due to the great drop in enemy accuracy. If their FC radars were still intact, even without the duchess, the Angel fleet would still be able to put up a decent fight. Destroying the FC radars is a tried and true tactic. With the confidence she gained from defeating the Angel fleet, Schleer casually proposed they do it again. ¡°No, give up on that. The Empress is very cautious and her subordinates are all elite¡­¡­.it would be too risky to try that even for Master.¡± Diaroze did not say that ¡®it would be too risky for us¡¯ she said ¡®it would be too risky even for Kisei¡¯. In truth, they couldn¡¯t have pulled the earlier operation off without him. Attacking a fleet with a solid defense with only a few strikers is nothing but a suicide. Schleer and the others were simply safe because the enemy AA turrets were focused on Kisei¡¯s flashy maneuvers. ¡°Muuh¡­¡­.¡± Being told that, Schleer felt like she just got splashed with cold water. She thinks about it for a moment but she didn¡¯t have much time as the AI has already started warning them about the approaching enemy strikers. Interrupted by the cold [Enemy approaching, Enemy approaching] from the AI, Schleer switched her way of thinking. If they are defeated here then the Calencian fleets would be defeated just as easily as the Angel fleet. They can not pointlessly risk it all here. ¡°Let¡¯s retreat for the time being. It¡¯s enough that we know where the enemy is coming from.¡± The Calencian fleets are currently withdrawing toward Galea-E. Just as the Noredian staff had reported to the Empress, their ammunition truly is runny low. Even in a favorable situation, their fleets are in no condition to fight at full power. With that being the case, there¡¯s no other way but to accept it for what it is. ¡°Withdrawing is good and all but it seems we won¡¯t be able to avoid fighting these Empress¡¯s lackeys you know.¡± Valentina said with a stern look as she gazed into the distance. The light of the stars is mixed with a number of blue flames from enemy thrusters. ¡°They¡¯re fast. It would be hard to shake them off at this distance¡­¡­¡± Kisei said with a grin. Only the strikers with relatively high-powered thrusters like [Ex-Caliburn] and [Colebrand] would be able to escape but the slow ones like the [Jettas], [Claymores], and Schleer¡¯s [Mistilteinn] won¡¯t be able to so engaging the enemy is unavoidable. ¡°All of them should belong to the Imperial guard. Of course, they are probably using the Imperial-guard-issued model, [Renion] and [Renion-Bogen], a fire-support specialized variant. Be careful.¡± Valentina¡¯s words made a smile spread on Kisei¡¯s face. His enemy will be strong this time. ¡°In short, there are a lot of pilots and strikers on the same class as Diaroze¡¯s personal guards coming our way right. This is going to be fun!¡± ¡°That¡¯s right but don¡¯t overdo it okay. These guys are only one of the Empress¡¯s trump cards. You can¡¯t allow yourself to get exhausted here.¡± ¡°But we can¡¯t run either right. It can¡¯t be helped so let¡¯s do this.¡± ¡°Geez¡­¡­..¡± Diaroze let out a deep sigh at Kisei¡¯s complexion which no matter how she looks at it, is far from good. Moreover, it doesn¡¯t sit right with her how he¡¯s not trying to put up a brave front but genuinely excited for his next battle. ¡°Valentina, Schleer. It¡¯s time for you two to show how womanly you are okay. Do your best and protect him.¡± ¡°You don¡¯t have to tell me!¡± ¡°Of course!¡± Hearing the two enthusiastically shout their reply, Diaroze exhaled a little. It was an expression that says [These two are just too easy]. CH 252 VS the Imperial Guards 1 Crimson high-power beams raced through the jet-black blanket of space. They came from the enemy fire support specialized strikers, [Renion-Bogen]. To avoid that, Kisei and the others spread out. ¡°So in short, we just need to hit them hard enough to open a withdrawal window. You can expect their reinforcements to arrive one after another so make sure you don¡¯t push yourselves.¡± Diaroze crossed her arms and stated so in a haughty tone. With a small smile leaking to his face at how she ended up acting like she was the commander again, Kisei pulled the trigger on his control stick. A green beam was shot out from his blaster rifle and impacted the black armor plate on an [Renion-Bogen]¡¯s abdomen. Its paint evaporated in an instant and the plate glowed red from the heat but the shot did not penetrate. ¡°Ugh!?¡± However, a beat after, a second shot hit the exact same spot. Even its heavy armor could not withstand this and its engine was pierced. ¡°Be careful! The enemy also has long-range weapons!¡± ¡°Don¡¯t let them get a lock on!¡± The Imperial Guards only consisted of elites so they did not panic even after one of their comrades was shot down. The [Renion-Bogens] took an evasive maneuver while pointing their long blaster rifle at Kisei and the others. Not only that, the [Renions] act as their vanguard and fire at them with their blaster rifles. That was simply to keep them in check but that doesn¡¯t mean they can afford not to avoid it. ¡°Unlike the aristocrats, the Imperial Guards¡¯ morale is high. They won¡¯t withdraw so¡­¡­easily!¡± Valentina holds up her lance and charges toward a [Renion]. Naturally, the enemy concentrated fire on her but she skillfully avoided it and continued charging while guarding the ones she couldn¡¯t avoid with a buckler on her left arm. ¡°First one!¡± With strong momentum, the lance pierced into the [Renion]¡¯s abdomen. Kicking it away, she fulled the lance back and fired the built-in blaster gun at another [Renion]. [Renion] is a heavily armored model so a shot from her lance was not enough to penetrate its armor but it worked well enough in stopping their movement. ¡°I got you!¡± Schleer did not miss her chance a large missile fired from her [Mistilteinn] stabbed into its back. It immediately detonated, causing a huge fireball. The missile was extremely powerful and the thick armor covering the cockpit and engine were blown away, while the other limbs simply dispersed in all directions. ¡°That counts as one point for both of us okay?¡± ¡°I¡¯m not petty enough to keep score over this. Do whatever you like!¡± While the two were having that back and forth, Kisei approached another [Renion]. The Imperial Guards greeted him with a barrage from their blaster rifles but they were parried back with a flash from [Ex-Caliburn]¡¯s photon saber. ¡°Guh!¡± The Imperial Guard saw the beams she fired flying back toward her and managed to block them with her shields. However, that opening was all Kisei needed. Before she knew it, Kisei was already at her side and drove his pile-bunker into her striker¡¯s unprotected flank. ¡°So that¡¯s the mercenary they called [Wicked Star]¡­¡­..! Concentrate fire on him! Don¡¯t let him catch you alone!¡± The other [Renions] immediately took a distance away from the [Ex-Caliburn] at their commander¡¯s order. Almost at the same time, a salvo from the company of [Renion-Bogens]¡¯ long blaster rifles converged on his position. ¡°Woah¡­..! Kisei swiftly avoided those that he could while batting away the ones that he couldn¡¯t with his photon saber. Unlike the [Renion]¡¯s blaster rifle, the impact he received from batting the higher output of the long blaster rifle shook his cockpit. ¡°The 8.8Mw long blaster rifles they are using are not all that powerful but their fire rate is extremely fast. You should watch out for a barrage.¡± Diaroze advised in a joyful tone. Kisei silently nodded in reply while firing back with his blaster rifle. Of course, the [Renion-Bogens] continued to fire while taking evasive maneuvers but they are getting shot down one by one. ¡°Just how good is he!?¡± There are many excellent pilots in Nored but they¡¯ve never fought against someone so out of the norm like him. Beads of cold sweat are forming on the Imperial Guards¡¯ faces. ¡°It¡¯s splendid of you to recognize a man¡¯s skills on the battlefield though!¡± Valentina caught one of the [Renion-Bogens] unaware and immediately pierced its engine with her lance. ¡°Leave this place to me! I have to show you my good side once in a while after all!¡± ¡°Thanks!¡± Thanks to the [Coldbrand]¡¯s assault, the fire support from the [Renion-Bogen] company came to halt. With this, the front-line enemy can not expect fire support for a while. Now it¡¯s time for him to deal with their vanguard. ¡°Tsk, even against Zeniths, for us to get pushed back like this by just 3 strikers¡­¡­¡­!¡± While somehow avoiding a shot from Kisei, the commander bitterly said and gritted her teeth. CH 253 VS the Imperial Guards 2 Although the battle is to their advantage, Kisei¡¯s group¡¯s goal is to withdraw. Still, their enemy lives up to their elite reputation and they won¡¯t be repelled so easily. The compromise here is to maintain a stalemate and slowly retreat. ¡°Uhg, how troublesome!¡± A high-power beam from a blaster cannon mounted on the [Mistilteinn]¡¯s shoulder penetrated an [Renion]¡¯s engine. She has already shot down a number of Imperial Guards but the amount of enemies she has to deal with doesn¡¯t go down at all. ¡°Quantity and quality, it sure is a pain when your enemy has both huh!¡± Valentina shouted with a severe expression. It may have been a mistake for them to fight the Imperial Guards here by themselves. ¡°You guys just keep prioritizing on not getting hit! Their strikers are not something that your [Claymore] and [Jetta] can face!¡± Schleer ordered their escorts which consisted of mass-produced strikers to stand back. [Renion] is a quasi-Zenith model, mass-produced strikers would be easily overwhelmed even if their numbers are equal. In a situation where the enemy has more than enough strikers to spare, pitching their mass-produced units against these enemies would be unreasonable. ¡°We¡¯re already doing that, just staying on the defensive is all we can do, ma¡¯am!¡± A reply came from one of the [Claymore] pilots. The people they brought with them are their elites. They manage to hold on despite the fact that your average pilot wouldn¡¯t last even 10 seconds. Still, even if they do not have the leeway to fire back, it¡¯s something to be grateful for that the enemy can not only focus on the 3 Zeniths. ¡°That¡¯s more than enough! Do not push yourselves.¡± Even while they were having that exchange, Kisei continued to defeat the enemy. A [Renion] had its armor penetrated by a couple of shots from Kisei and by the time the pilot noticed that her striker had been disabled, Kisei has already moved on to another one. ¡°You are as terrifying a monster as the rumors said, [Wicked Star]!¡± Although the pilot fired an anti-armor shell from the multi-purpose launcher installed on the [Renion]¡¯s chest, such a sure-fire way to deal significant damage to Kisei was never allowed to hit. With a spray from his head-mounted machine gun, the shell was destroyed midair and a counterattack from his blaster rifle blew the [Renion]¡¯s head clean off. ¡°Tsk!¡± [[Zero remaining bullets! Zero remaining bullets!]] At the same time the [Renion] pilot clicked her tongue, the electronic voice of the AI reported so. Kisei immediately threw away his rifle. ¡°Allow me!¡± One of the [Claympre] caught it immediately. Naturally, the enemy concentrated fire on the [Claymore] but it¡¯s weathering the barrage with a sturdy tower shield. With a swift moment, the pilot launched the blaster rifle mounted on the back toward Kisei. ¡°Thanks!¡± Kisei reeled the rifle in with the wire gun, it¡¯s the same model that he usually uses and it¡¯s fitted with a brand new magazine. To mitigate the need for him to resupply, Kisei is always accompanied by a pilot. ¡°You went and did something unnecessary!¡± ¡°You won¡¯t escape!¡± Two [Renions] pointed their rifles¡¯ muzzles toward the [Claymore] but Kisei wouldn¡¯t allow them to hurt his supplier. With 2 shots from his new rifle, the enemy blaster rifles were blown away from their hands. ¡°Ugh!¡± Just like that, he accelerated at full throttle. Blue flame explosively blew from his main thruster and the distance between him and the two strikers was no more. The pilot of one of the [Renions] reflexively pulled out a photon saber from the back but that was about all she could do. Before the red beam blade could form, her striker was already pierced by the pile bunker. ¡°Next!¡± ¡°This is just ridiculous¡­¡­¡­.¡± The Imperial Guard hatefully shouted at Kisei who had been wreaking havoc. Despite the fact that a group of elites piloting top-tier strikers is attacking him from all sides, they can¡¯t even contain this pure white striker¡¯s rampage. ¡°But we still have the pride of the Imperial Guards to uphold¡­!¡± Translation, ¡®But we can¡¯t retire here!¡¯. Inspired, the Imperial Guards pointed their weapons toward [Ex-Caliburn]. It was at this moment. ¡°ALL UNITS SPREAD OUT!¡± A sharp voice hits Kisei and the others¡¯ ears. Reflexively, Kisei flew up. And merely a few seconds later, a number of thick beams rain on the battlefield. ¡°What!?¡± The Imperial Guards scramble to evade but even without a direct hit, the strong scattered particles peculiar to high-power beams take out their camera and some of them even lose some limbs. In no time, several [Renions] and [Renion-Bogens] were incapacitated. ¡°Enemy ships!? No!¡± The Imperial Guards quickly scanned their radar but there was no such reaction in the area. However, beams that powerful can not be used by a striker. That left them with one possibility. ¡°Mobile artillery!¡± The Calencian mobile artillery unit has come to the rescue. ¡°Use this chance to withdraw! We will follow you after the next salvo!¡± ¡°Understood!¡± Without missing the opening created by the bombardment, Kisei¡¯s group started to withdraw. The Imperial Guards immediately tried to chase after them but they were stopped by a fierce bombardment from the mobile artillery unit. ¡°Damn it¡­¡­.!¡± By the time the Imperial Guards managed to regain their posture, Kisei¡¯s group was already too far for them to give chase. Seeing that, they switched their attention to the Calencian mobile artillery unit and prepared to snipe them but they too also began to withdraw. The Calencian mobile artillery unit was well aware that they would be in grave danger if the Imperial Guards managed to catch up so they did not wait around. ¡°They got away! How am I going to face Her Majesty after this¡­¡­¡­.¡± The Imperial guards couldn¡¯t help but frown at their eventual predicament. CH 254 Reentry 1 With the artillery support, Kisei and the others managed to get away from the Imperial Guards and rejoined the Calencian fleets. The fleets are currently conducting a deceleration maneuver in preparation to descend to the surface of Galea-E. They couldn¡¯t afford to have the enemy at their tail at the moment. ¡°The enemy made their move earlier than we expected huh.¡± Said Solana with a sigh. After they reported the result of their recon mission but given the position of the enemy and their fleets, it appears that they do not have much time left. If nothing is done, the enemy might catch up to them even before the fleets can land back on the surface. ¡°Our battleships have nowhere near enough ammunition to fight right now, we do have some AP rounds left though¡­¡­¡­.¡± Unlike particle bullets which can travel at almost light speed, AP rounds are too slow for them to use effectively in space. To put it simply, they won¡¯t hit anything at such a speed unless the enemy is close enough. ¡°Fighting the Empress¡¯s fleets with only those things is a suicide. We will get outranged and they will shoot us down even before we can get anywhere near them.¡± ¡°That would be the case.¡± Solana growls at Diaroze¡¯s advice. The enemy is overwhelmingly superior in terms of number and ship performance. Challenging such an enemy in an unfavorable condition like that would not do them any good. ¡°In the worst case, we will have to fight them in the middle of our reentry huh.¡± In front of Schleer, the surface of Galea-E is gradually getting closer. The planet which looks like a snowball floating in the jet-black sky was covered with a whitish veil of its thin atmosphere. ¡°The fleets will concentrate on withdrawing to the surface while our surface-based defense and strikers will stall the enemy. Do you think ¡®that¡¯ weapon can be used in low orbit?¡± ¡°You are planning to use that thing while our allies are out fighting in the field, Your Highness¡­¡­¡­.?¡± Just what exactly is ¡®that¡¯ though? Kisei cocked his head. He was not told the full details of this operation as a precaution against the Noredian intelligence. That said, Schleer did not say anything to Solana and remained silent¡­.. ¡°Well, there¡¯s no other way. I will tell Miss Liren to warn us before she fires.¡± ¡°Please do.¡± Schleer replied in a slightly tired voice. Almost half a day has passed since the battle began. Although they did have their occasional breaks, they¡¯ve mostly been fighting all the time. No matter how resilient the Vulds are, it seems this battle is wearing them down. ¡°¡­¡­..so, can I talk with you about the future plan?¡± And it was not just Schleer that was worn out. They have a Terran here who is far less physically fit than the Vulds. So, Diaroze nervously talked to Kisei who¡¯s obviously exhausted. ¡°What do you mean?¡± While biting the dried fruits energy bar, Kisei asked back. If possible, he wants a warm meal right now but with the enemy so close by, he can¡¯t afford to leisurely take his time to eat here. ¡°Can I take control for the time being?¡± The cockpit of [Ex-Caliburn] was one modified from a trainer unit so the back seat also came with the equipment required for maneuvering the striker. And right now, Diaroze wants to make full use of that. ¡°This again, why?¡± ¡°We are only about halfway through the operation. It would be very bad for us if Master collapses here right?¡± ¡°Yeah.¡± Honestly, Kisei wants to argue back but he understands well how poor his physical ability is so he reluctantly agreed and groans to himself. Certainly, if the battle continues at this pace, he will reach his limit soon. This he knows from his many years of mercenary work. ¡°I agree. The enemies are powerful but now we can fight with the support of our allies. [Ex-Caliburn] itself is a fairly high-performance striker¡­¡­.even with Diaroze as the pilot, it should be able to put up a decent fight, no?¡± ¡°Umu, it¡¯s impossible for me to be as good as Master but I can fight well enough as a soldier.¡± With a grin, Diaroze taps the control stick in her hand. ¡°Is this going to be okay? If she betrays us then¡­¡­.¡± Valentina, who still doesn¡¯t fully trust Diaroze frowned at the suggestion with her arms crossed. As a pilot, Kisei is extremely powerful and nigh unrivaled but his physical ability is extremely low. With the control of [Ex-Caliburn], it would be simple for Diaroze to just fly away with Kisei unable to defend himself. ¡°It will be fine. As long as we have that footage, Diaroze can not return to the Noredian army.¡± ¡°That line sounds like it came straight out of an erotic doujin you know¡­¡­¡­¡± Kisei muttered with his eyes narrowed. On the other hand, Diaroze snickered. ¡°Besides, Kisei has the detonator of her collar. If she tries anything then it will be ¡®Bang¡¯ and it¡¯s all over.¡± ¡°Ohh, how scary. I will behave so spare me from that okay?¡± Valentina¡¯s frown deepened at Diaroze¡¯s joking tone but the matter about her collar does bring some credibility to her argument. ¡°¡­¡­are you really okay with this, My Love?¡± Her voice was void of her usual confidence. ¡°Well, I certainly need a break. I will be relying on Diaroze for a while.¡± ¡°I see¡­¡­.then it can¡¯t be helped.¡± Valentina let out a small sigh. Kisei felt that something was slightly off from her attitude but a voice from the radio interrupted his thoughts. ¡°Enemy strikers approaching! They appear to be from the Empress¡¯s personal fleet, ma¡¯am.¡± ¡°Kuh, I knew that they are close but they¡¯ve already caught up huh!¡± The enemy is attacking. Diaroze bitterly said before turning her eyes to Kisei. ¡°Then I will take the control for the time being. I have to show Master my cool side once in a while after all.¡± ¡°Yeah, yeah.¡± With a bitter smile, Kisei touched the panel on the console and transferred control to the back seat. CH 255 Reentry 2 The Calencian fleets are steadily descending to the planet¡¯s surface. In this situation, if they take an evasive maneuver, their landing point will greatly deviate from the planned location making their only option to be to intercept the enemy away from the fleets. Because of that, Kisei and the others decided to meet the Imperial Guards at a location slightly away from the fleets. At this range, they should be within the range where their battleships¡¯ main turrets can provide support. Naturally, many strikers from the escort units are with them as well. ¡°I can¡¯t possibly fly in solo and wreak havoc behind the enemy formation like Master did after all. I will focus on logistical support so I will leave the vanguard role to you guys okay.¡± Saying so, Diaroze glanced at the sub-monitor and read the specs of the new weapon she took out. It was an 8.5Mw long blaster rifle. It was a long-range model of the rifle Kisei usually uses with a long barrel for long-distance sniping. ¡°I imagined you would be using your whip and shotgun or some kind of close-quarter weapon though. Will you be alright using something you¡¯re not familiar with?¡± ¡°I¡¯ve been training. Don¡¯t worry.¡± She did her best because she knew that she had to protect Kisei who was physically weaker than the rest of them. If she decided to fight up close using the full power of their Zenith, Kisei would probably get crushed by G. To lessen the physical burden on him, she chose to fight at a distance. ¡°Okay. I will expect you to show me Liren-san¡¯s level of skills alright.¡± ¡°Don¡¯t be unreasonable!¡± It¡¯s impossible for her to get on the level of someone who climbed her way up from being just a mere mercenary to one of the 4 Heavenly through her sniping skills alone. Kisei and Valentina laughed at Diaroze¡¯s angry retort. ¡°¡­¡­.and, here they come. All strikers, move in to intercept! Do not let even a single one of them through!¡± However, such a casual atmosphere didn¡¯t last long. The moment her radar detected the incoming enemy, Schleer immediately sharpened up and gave her order. A moment later, multiple beams flew over from the enemy side. The [Claymores] and [Jettas] scrambled to evade. Muttering so, Diaroze carefully accelerated the [Ex-Caliburn]. Since the first volley was probably just a prefire, she didn¡¯t have any problem evading. Diaroze exhaled in relief. The [Ex-Caliburn] is much worse than her [Zentis] in terms of balance. That¡¯s why she needed to be careful maneuvering it. ¡°I¡¯m disconnected from the I-con so I¡¯m practically useless right now. I can¡¯t warn you if anything dangerous is coming so be careful.¡± Kisei said apologetically. Right now, Diaroze is the one who¡¯s connected to the I-con. His superhuman reactions and sixth sense came from the I-con system so he can not do his usual things at the moment. ¡°I know¡­¡­¡­that was why I suggested I took over in the first place.¡± ¡°¡­¡­¡­.what do you mean?¡± ¡°It¡¯s nothing.¡± Diaroze cut short their conversation with an awkward smile. Just like that, she takes aim at a [Renion] which is flying toward them. After waiting for the crosshair to change color from red to green, Diaroze squeezed the trigger. The green beam flew at sub-light speed and raced toward the [Renion] but as though the pilot already predicted its trajectory, the [Renion] easily avoided it. The second and third shots which she fired in succession were also avoided. Diaroze clicked her tongue. ¡°I don¡¯t want to think that I really got rusty but¡­¡­.I guess I should expect no less from the Imperial Guards huh!¡± The Imperial Guards is a unit that would be very reassuring to have as an ally but quite troublesome to deal with as an enemy. Moreover, Diaroze hasn¡¯t piloted a striker in real battle for a long time and it made her feel like her senses have dulled. She wanted to just let out a sigh but she held it in. ¡°There!¡± The [Renion] that had been avoiding Diaroze¡¯s shots was blown away by Schleer¡¯s cannon. Its flying posture collapsed from the repeated evasive maneuvers so it couldn¡¯t avoid a direct hit from Schleer. Schleer¡¯s shot hit its waist, blowing away its legs with oil spilling from its damaged part. ¡°Umu, Nice support!¡± Her prey was stolen but she was rather thankful for the assistance. The Imperial Guards are enemies that they must be vigilant against so the situation where they can pick them off one by one is the desired result. ¡°This is just right. Now, play a bloodhound for me, foolish little sister. I and Schleer will be the hunters.¡± ¡°You¡¯re getting carried away again¡­¡­.¡± Valentina seemed a little dissatisfied but the tactic Diaroze proposed would certainly be effective. Even for her, the [Renions] is not an easy enemy. A coordinated fight would be to their advantage. With a deep sigh, she suppressed her frustration with her reasons and accelerated. ¡°Sorry, but you guys will have to be my outlet!¡± While firing her built-in blaster gun, she approached a [Renion]. The low-power blaster gun couldn¡¯t penetrate its thick armor but with Schleer and Diaroze in charge of dealing damage, she only needs to keep their movement in check. CH 256 Reentry 3 Diaroze and the others continue to desperately intercept the Imperial Guards¡¯ assault. Because only their Zeniths like [Ex-Caliburn] and [Mistilteinn] can fight the [Renions] in terms of performance, the mass-produced models like [Claymore] and [Jetta] from the escort units can only provide fire support. ¡°The striker¡­¡­it¡¯s so heavy!¡± Their altitude is decreasing at a tremendous speed and a thin veil of reddish air from the adiabatic compression is covering the surface of their strikers as they approach the surface. Even small aircraft like a striker can not move freely in such an environment and this is especially true for the [Ex-Caliburn] which was unreasonably modified. ¡°Don¡¯t overdo it okay. I couldn¡¯t care less if you die but I won¡¯t let you take My Love with you.¡± Valentina said in a sarcastic tone. She agreed to play the role of a hunting dog despite her reluctance because she wanted to keep Kisei safe. For her, it¡¯s better to have the [Ex-Caliburn] stay as far back as possible. ¡°Umu, obviously. I literally grind my head to the ground to keep this life of mine after all. My will to stay alive won¡¯t lose to anyone, don¡¯t worry.¡± ¡°Hmph, I guess so? Haha, you did look quite pathetic after all!¡± Valentina blew her thruster with a dark smile spreading on her face. The tip of her lance closed in on a [Renion] that¡¯s struggling to get through the turbulence of the atmosphere. ¡°Guh!¡± The [Colbrand] is technically a Zenith. Its charge attack was plenty sharp. The [Renion] tried to avoid it but the moment it moved away, Diaroze shot it with her long blaster rifle. With a longer barrel, the firepower was enough to pierce even the armor of an Imperial Guard¡¯s exclusive striker. ¡°¡­¡­¡­¡± Her aim was the cockpit. Naturally, it was instant death for the pilot. However, even if she had aimed at the engine, the striker which lost its power would just freefall to the surface and the pilot would inevitably die anyway. The killing was unavoidable. However, because he¡¯s not connected to the I-con, Kisei was not assaulted by the feedback from the pilot¡¯s death. It was never a good feeling nonetheless so he kept his mouth shut. ¡°Sorry. If I¡¯m as skilled as Master then I might be able to avoid it but¡­..¡± ¡°No, I understand. You can do it your way, Diaroze. You don¡¯t have to go along with my method.¡± On a battlefield, the demerits that come with his no-killing preference are too heavy to be imposed on others. It¡¯s Kisei¡¯s belief that he should not force others to go along with his own preference. After all, he knows that it¡¯s natural for the soldiers to prioritize their own lives over that of their enemies. ¡°Can¡¯t you get through the enemy yet! You stupid fools!¡± However, they do not have the time to be sentimental. The Imperial Guards¡¯ commander was frustrated at their lack of progress and came out to the front herself. The glossy black paint made her striker look kind of similar to the other [Renions] here but its massive body set it apart from the rest. ¡°The [Getz] huh. That Zenith belongs to the Imperial Guard Captain. She¡¯s strong you know.¡± Diaroze gives a small nod to Valentina¡¯s explanation. Meanwhile, the jet-black Zenith called [Getz] is approaching them at a tremendous speed with a stupidly large mace in its hand. Its specs are similar to that of the Zeniths piloted by the members of the Imperial family and the captain is almost as skilled as the 4 Heavenly. She would be a troublesome enemy to fight head-on. If she was alone then it¡¯s possible that the three of them could take her down with a coordinated attack but there were [Renions] spreading out around her with [Renion-Bogens] providing fire support with their blaster cannon from behind. They are clearly at a disadvantage here. ¡°In a time like this¡­¡­¡­we have to compensate quantity with quality! Can you hear me, 4 Heavenly! Master is in peril you know!¡± When Diaroze shouted into the radio, a number of panicked replies came through. ¡°Uwawawawa!? I¡¯m coming right away!¡± ¡°Nnhng, how troublesome [DESUNE]!¡± ¡°They won¡¯t lay a hand on My Lord as long as I stay alive! Leave this to me!¡± In an instant, Eleanor, Nora, and Tersis who were fighting at a distance away immediately flew over and stood in the way of the Imperial Guard Captain. ¡°They still behave like a knight after all. That¡¯s convenient for me. Kukukuku.¡± If the enemy is on the level of the 4 Heavenly then the obvious solution would be to have the 4 Heavenly fight them. It was a simple conclusion. With a nasty smile, Diaroze shoots her long blaster rifle at the group of [Renions] that the 4 Heavenly were fighting to fill in the hole they left. ¡°Damn you, 4 heavenly! So you truly betrayed us huh! I don¡¯t know what led you astray but I will crush all of you here!¡± Befitting her position, the Imperial Guard Captain did not falter at the arrival of the 4 Heavenly. Rather, she was more than eager to swing her mace at the [Van Wolf]. ¡°Hah, you musclebrain! It¡¯s you who will be crushed here [DESU]!¡± ¡°Of course! And I am enough to crush them! Let¡¯s have a duel!¡± ¡°Tersis-sama! Please don¡¯t bother with a duel in a situation like this!!¡± Diaroze¡¯s plan to have the 4 Heavenly crush her enemy together collapsed in an instant and she couldn¡¯t help but heave a heavy sigh. CH 257 Begins the Setting Sun 1 ¡°Hmph, these trash Calencians are putting up a decent fight huh¡­¡­.¡± At the bridge of the Noredian flagship, the [Odelcrois], the Empress muttered in a weary tone. She leans back in her seat and looks at the monitor which is now displaying their current battle situation like she was watching a sports competition. ¡°You still can¡¯t break through their strikers?¡± ¡°M, My deepest apology, Your Majesty.¡± The staff in charge of overseeing their striker operation answered while breaking out in a cold sweat. Despite the fact that she had deployed their elite Imperial Guards, they still can not penetrate through their enemy¡¯s line of defense and get close to the enemy fleets. Her performance right now could be considered so pathetic that it would not be strange for the Empress to dish out her punishment. ¡°However, the enemy¡¯s resistance has weakened. I believe that we can break through soon¡­¡­..¡± The staff continued with a weak smile. In truth, the Calencians are applying much weaker pressure due to the fact that Diaroze had switched in to pilot the [Ex-Caliburn] in place of Kisei. They are putting up a good enough fight but the staff theorized that the Calencians are becoming exhausted after a long battle. ¡°Hmph, imbeciles¡­¡­.remember well not to try my patience. Get it through your skull that I can find a replacement for you whenever I want.¡± ¡°Of course, Your Majesty.¡± The Empress sadistically looked down at the cowering staff. Then, suddenly she shifted her eyes to the monitor before bringing up some information by operating the control panel. ¡°Hmm¡­..at this speed, we won¡¯t be able to get on top of their fleets huh. If possible, I want to wipe them out before they can reach the surface.¡± The surface of Galea-E is a complex terrain with extremely high mountains and steep valleys. It¡¯s possible that the enemy might be able to elude them if they go low enough. The Calencian fleets are also running low on their ammunition, hitting them hard before they can resupply would be great too. That said, at this rate, it would be impossible. Even if it is a little risky, bringing their fleets close would work better to their advantage. ¡°Your Majesty, the enemy will be able to attack us from the surface, are you certain?¡± ¡°Well, they probably have a couple of fortress guns down there but¡­¡­..the [Odelcrois] possesses the toughest defense among all of the battleships belonging to the Imperial army. Unless they have a 50Mw class fortress gun, there¡¯s no need to fear their pathetic resistance at this range.¡± After all, they are facing Calencia, a poor backwater nation. It¡¯s very unlikely that they would be able to prepare such a high-caliber fortress gun. ¡°Certainly, only a fool would recklessly rush in there. Still, it would be stupid of us to worry over a threat that doesn¡¯t exist. Don¡¯t you think it¡¯s high time for us to go on an actual offensive?¡± She had been using her subordinates as a shield until just a while ago but the staff readily complied with her order. Nored is a country where demotion and the death penalty would immediately befall those who do not obey the Empress. That¡¯s why the Empress herself is always surrounded by Yes-women. ¡°Ready all units for Anti-ship warfare. Bring my fleet on top of the enemy.¡± The Noredians fleet was already close to the Calencians to attack them from long range. When the entire fleet powered their thrusters, the distance between them shrank in a blink of an eye. Right now, the Empress¡¯s fleet is right on top of the Calencians who are in the middle of their descent to the surface. The Calencian escorts were occupied with dealing with the Imperial Guards and could not intercept them. With nothing between her fleet and the Calencian main fleet, the Empress could see her enemy descending below with her bare eyes. ¡°Not even a tiny bit of resistance huh? This is just pathetic.¡± It is clear that the Calencians have no chance of victory when it comes to fleet battles. Convinced of her victory, a smile floated to the Empress¡¯s mouth. ¡°Enemy fleet within range.¡± ¡°Good, F¡ª¡ª.¡± At that moment, a crimson flash illuminated the battlefield. A gigantic torrent of beams pierced through a battleship flying right next to the [Odelcrois]. Its crimson hull melted scrap metal in a blast furnace, followed by a violent explosion. A fierce shock wave and shattered pieces of steel struck the [Odelcrois], tilting the entire ship. The helmsman desperately grabbed onto the wheel with a blue face. With the ship losing its balance, the air resistance is causing it to spin out of control. ¡°Wh, Wh, Wha, What happened!?¡± Caught completely off guard, the Empress lost her cool for a moment. No ordinary attack can obliterate a battleship in one shot. Being glared at by the Empress, the operator hurriedly gave her report. ¡°S, Scanning for the point of origin! We should get the result s¨C¡­¡­.done, putting it on the front monitor!¡± The Empress was at a loss for words when she saw what was on the monitor. It was a telephoto image so the quality is a bit rough but she can make out the figure of a gigantic cannon with legs. It was the Mobile Fortress [Valizer], the strategic weapon Nored had dispatched to Calencia. ¡°¡­¡­¡­..I missed.¡± The [Valizer] was standing still on an iceberg. The place where its cockpit was supposed to be was hollowed out and replaced by a mounting platform for a purple Zenith. It was Liren¡¯s exclusive striker, the [Pryceta]. Despite the fact that she just shot down a battleship, her expression shows nothing but dissatisfaction. ¡°What a disgrace¡­¡­¡­..¡± ¡°It can¡¯t be helped. The barrel and the aiming system were broken and we are forcibly using it after all.¡± A Calencian soldier pilots her [Claymore] to insert a new particle cartridge while comforting Liren. In return, Liren let out a dissatisfied sigh. The Calencian army recovered the defeated [Valizer] and put it here after some emergency repairs. It¡¯s not fully operational but it can be used as a fixed battery. Still, its accuracy is unreliable because it was damaged so badly in the battle. Even Nored¡¯s former best sniper ended up missing her shot. ¡°Hmm¡­¡­.if would¡¯ve been a big win if I managed to take out the Empress¡­..¡± With a frown, Liren once again looked down her scope. CH 258 Begins the Setting Sun 2 ¡°C, Change the primary target to the [Valizer]! Hurry up and take it out.¡± The ultra-high caliber cannon the [Valizer] has holds enough power to sink even their toughest battleship in a single shot. Since its destructive power was just demonstrated right in front of her, the captain immediately gave that order with a pale face. After all, it was allowed to fire another shot, the [Odelcrois] might be the next one to go. The four 50cm triple cannons on the [Odelcrois] take aim at the [Valizer] on top of the iceberg. Naturally, the other side also noticed that but the [Valizer] showed no sign of taking an evasive maneuver. ¡°First salvo, commence fire!¡± The main turrets blew fire at the command. Not only the [Odelcrois] but all other battleships also launch their attack. Countless crimson rays race toward the [Valizer]. The [Valizer] is as big as a battleship so no one misses their shot. However, just before the high-power beams can hit the [Valizer] directly, they all unnaturally diverge in different directions. Some of the scattered particles managed to graze its armor but that did no real damage to the [Valizer]. ¡°Fools! That thing is equipped with a deflection shield, but battleships¡¯ turrets can¡¯t touch that thing¡­¡­.!¡± The Empress screamed, her face looked extremely pale. The deflection shield can deflect both beams and physical bullets with strong repulsive force. It is an extremely powerful defensive device. Naturally, it has its limits but it would take them some time to bypass that shield. On the other hand, if the Empress¡¯s ship gets shot down before they can destroy the [Valizer] then all the battle so far would go to waste. ¡°Anyway, lower us down first! Get me out of its line of fire!¡± ¡°H, However, the enemy fleets are¡­¡­.¡± One of the staff moaned. The Calencians can fire at them at this range but they did not launch their attack. It¡¯s likely that they are out of ammunition and this is a great chance for them to attack. ¡°Shut up! Their pathetic fleets can wait! Get us down immediately!¡± ¡°Y, Yes, Your Majesty!¡± The ship¡¯s bow turned toward the surface. The helmsman then utilized the thruster at the stern at full power. The ship¡¯s interior is being protected by an inertial control device and they have artificial gravity on board but such a massive movement ended up making some crew members fall over. Naturally, the other ships in the fleet also begin to descend following its flagship. It¡¯s obvious that they also do not want to be a sitting duck for the Mobile Fortress¡¯s cannon. ¡°According to the topographic, there is a large valley near our location where we can hide in. Let¡¯s head there, Your Majesty!¡± ¡°Good, I¡¯ll allow it. Hurry!¡± Since the [Valizer] is on top of an iceberg, its firing angle was extremely wide. Lowering their altitude alone won¡¯t cut it. They have to completely cut off the enemy¡¯s line of sight. The fact that Galea-E is filled with mountains and valleys brings relief to the Empress. ¡°Growing heat signature from the [Valizer]. The second shot is¡ª-¡­¡­..¡± However, that peace of mind does not last long. Even before the operator could finish her report, an extra-thick beam flew past the [Odelcrois]. Even though the shot didn¡¯t even scratch the ship itself, the AA turrets and autocannons popped off from the heat from the scattered particles. ¡°¡­¡­..¡± The Empress¡¯s expression looked like she got ice-cold water poured up her ass. The bridge was filled with warning alarms while the operators nervously scrambled to give damage reports. Their state immediately changed from casual to shaken. The fact that the Calencian fleets are right before their eyes flew out of their heads. ¡°H, Hurry up and get us out of here!¡± Although they got lucky this time, the Empress does not plan to stay around and hope for the next shot. She was half panicked. ¡°We¡¯re already at full speed, Your Majesty!¡± The helmsman replied. She spoke the truth as the white icebergs all Galea-E was already right in front of them. Once their altitude got to 3,000, the helmsman adjusted the ship¡¯s posture and it now aligned horizontally to the surface. After that, with a burst of their reverse thrust, their speed gradually decreased. ¡°Incoming enemy destroyers and missile vessels!¡± ¡°NNNgh!!¡± The Empress let out a muffled scream at the report. A unit of small vessels appeared out of nowhere and was gradually approaching their position. Their effort to intercept them does not go well as they are in the middle of deceleration and their aim was awry. Although they managed to destroy several of the enemy destroyers, most of the enemy unit was still intact and the missile vessels had already gotten into their effective range. ¡°All hands, prepare for impact!¡± Rain of anti-ship missiles assaults the Empress fleet. None of them hit the [Odelcrois] but several battleships and cruisers received direct hits. The cruiser that was escorting the [Odelcrois] was incapacitated and crashed onto the surface followed by an explosion. The battleships that got hit did not escape unscathed either as some simply lost power and dived into the icefield below them. ¡°NNNNNGHGHHHHGH!¡± The Empress¡¯s face grew red in anger but right now they have no time to deal with the destroyers. She pointed at a stupidly large canyon about 10km away and shouts. ¡°Hurry up! The third shot is coming!¡± ¡ª¡ª¡ª¡ª¡® CH 259 Canyon . The Empress¡¯s fleet fled to the canyon which was thousands of meters deep. It is one of the deepest canyons on Galea-E and even a large fleet consisting of battleships can hide in it. ¡°W, We did it!¡± Seeing that, Schleer stroked her chest in relief. The Imperial Guards also withdrew to the canyon following the Empress so the Calencians can now take their time to descend. Their artillery on the ground is also aiming at the Empress¡¯s fleet and is constantly raining fire on them. ¡°For the time being that¡¯s stage one done¡­¡­¡­¡± Diaroze muttered and checked the time. She frowned a little before shrugging her shoulders. ¡°But we still need a little more time.¡± ¡°Your strategy this time is strangely specific huh.¡± Having nothing to do, Kisei folded his arms and commented. ¡°Well, yeah¡­¡­..¡± Diaroze gave a vague reply before silently switching her sub monitor to show the tactical map. There seems to be something she doesn¡¯t want to tell him. Kisei frowned a little but he decided not to ask. ¡°No matter how wide that canyon is, there are only a few places where a fleet that large can move about. If they don¡¯t plan to hide in there forever then they should launch an assault soon.¡± ¡°Then their first target would be the [Valizer] right. As long as we have that, it doesn¡¯t seem like they are going to show up on the surface after all.¡± Valentina glanced at the Mobile Fortress [Valizer] which could be seen from a distance. This type of weapon that boasts high firepower and impressive defense is highly reliable in a situation like this. However, because of the terrible state it was in, it can not move properly. After all, it only received some emergency repairs before they installed it here. ¡°Their fleet can¡¯t come up here but their strikers should be able to sew through the canyons and valleys here to get close to the [Valizer]. I want that big baddy of ours to stay alive and well for a while. You should order your pilots to prepare to intercept them.¡± ¡°Yes, I know. It¡¯s about time that the forces were stationed on the surface to launch their attack. I will tell them to not allow enemy strikers to break through¡­¡­.¡± At that time, countless shells and missiles flew from beyond the horizon and rained on the canyon like a meteor rain. A fierce explosion erupted, evaporating the dry ice powder toward the sky. The attack came from the Calencian-Valentina allied forces. The Empress¡¯s prediction was off as they actually stationed a large number of troops on the surface. By this time, the Empress is probably fuming. Imagined that, a snicker escaped from Diaroze¡¯s lips. ¡°This made me want to savor it for a while. Truly wonderful.¡± While nodding in satisfaction with her work, Diaroze landed the [Ex-Caliburn] at the tip of an iceberg. Dry ice evaporates into white smoke at its sole as the striker was pretty heated from the reentry. Even though the atmosphere of Galea-E is pretty thin. The sound of shells and missiles raining in the distance could be heard clearly. ¡°But most of our equipment is 20cm cannons and 24cm rocket launchers. We can¡¯t take down battleships with that kind of firepower. Besides, that canyon is pretty deep¡­¡­..the flashy explosions aside, I don¡¯t think we land that many direct hits on them though.¡± Schleer pointed out as she landed her striker beside the [Ex-Caliburn]. Her voice seems terribly tired. Almost half a day has passed since the battle started. Even with Vuld physical prowess, she¡¯s almost at her limit. ¡°If it¡¯s that flashy then it¡¯s enough. Our goal is to keep them from rearing their heads up from under there after all.¡± Their bombardment was literally changing the terrain above them. Certainly, they wouldn¡¯t want to surface their fleet into that kind of environment. Even with their medium-sized shells and missiles, their ships won¡¯t be unscathed after a direct hit after all. ¡°Right. We brought almost all of the ammunition we have to Galea-E. At least, we should be able to keep it raining like this for a while.¡± This operation was planned as their final battle against Nored. A large-scale operation in that they are willing to exhaust their supplies and troops. ¡°So things should be fine for now right. Diaroze, it¡¯s your first battle in a while¡­¡­are you doing okay? If you can¡¯t move anymore then I don¡¯t mind you withdrawing first you know.¡± Valentina asked in a teasing tone. In truth, the one she¡¯s worried about is not Diaroze but Kisei who¡¯s riding with her. In the first place, Diaroze only switched in to maneuver the [Ex-Caliburn] so Valentina and the others should be way more tired than her. Detected the sarcasm in her sister¡¯s tone, Diaroze¡¯s expression turned bitter. ¡°¡­¡­..Anyway, it¡¯s our chance. The Empress should be as red as a boiled octopus by now. Shall we add some gasoline into the flame?¡± ¡°Ugh¡­¡­.so we are going to use that after all?¡± Valentina had a terribly fed-up look on her face. CH 260 The Bombshell The broadcast frequency of the Noredian communication cruiser was promptly hijacked. Cornering the Empress into that canyon was planned from the start. A large number of antennas were installed near the canyon in which the Empress¡¯s fleet is currently hiding in and although Calencian technicians are not as skillful as their Noredian counterparts, the broadcast couldn¡¯t be prevented given the Calencians¡¯ thorough setup. . . ¡°Our Data-link is under attack!¡± . . At the operator¡¯s report, the Empress strongly slammed the armrest of her seat. Because of the constant bombardment, the bridge of the [Odelcrois] is trembling with shock waves. The situation is already grave as it is but now it is getting worse. The Empress grinds her teeth, her anger about to explode. . . ¡°Do something about it then!¡± . . By the time she angrily shouted her command, it was already too late. The main monitor in front of her blacked out for a moment before a mysterious video suddenly started playing. That¡¯s right, it was the [AV] Kisei and Diaroze shot. . . [[Alright, let¡¯s start with some self-introduction.]] [[Diaroze Vista Argarine¡­¡­27 years old¡­¡­]] Seeing Diaroze dressed in an obscene costume, everyone on the bridge looked away. . . ¡°What the hell is this!¡± ¡°We don¡¯t know, Your Majesty!¡± . . The operator was inches away from bursting out crying. The video which is simply too bizarre to watch during battle continues to play undisturbed. As rotten as her personality is, she is still the Empress. She can easily guess her enemy¡¯s intention in broadcasting something like this. No one in her army doesn¡¯t know Diaroze¡¯s face. The enemy is trying to take advantage of her surname to demoralize the army by humiliating her. . . ¡°Y, You¡­¡­! You damn ingrate¡­¡­!!¡± . . Valentina wouldn¡¯t be able to come up with such a plan. That¡¯s why Diaroze herself is definitely the one behind this. Watching Diaroze scream in pleasure while being whipped, the Empress¡¯s hand clenched so hard that blood started to seep through her fist. . . [[A masochist slave, sir! Diaroze is a perverted masochist slave!]] . . There were noises of someone gulping down their saliva. Even though they are in the middle of a battle, most crew¡¯s eyes were fixed on the front monitor. A battlefield is not a place a man should be. Because of that, the elite Noredian soldiers are very frustrated because their thirst can not be quenched. When such a video suddenly starts broadcasting in front of their eyes, their reaction is rather normal. . . ¡°How nice¡­¡­.¡± . . A feverish voice reached the Empress¡¯s ears. The man who played the role of Diaroze¡¯s master was an exceptionally beautiful boy who can fascinate both young and old women. Even the Empress who was fuming at this development forgot her anger for a moment. The Empress shook her head to purge the impure thoughts. Right now is not the time for that. She slapped her cheeks to snap out of it but suddenly, a thought occurred to her and a chill traveled down her spine. . . ¡°¡­¡­.this video, is it being broadcasted to the [Odelcrois] directly?¡± . . The Empress asked the officer in charge of electronic warfare who¡¯s still trying her hardest to cut off the broadcast. The young officer shook her head as she turned to the Empress. Her face was pale and drenched in sweat. . . ¡°The video came from our Data-link¡­¡­.so I believe that it is being broadcasted to all of our connected vessels, maybe.¡± ¡°In other words,¡­¡­this is going live for all our destroyers, and strikers as well!?¡± ¡°Yes¡­¡­.¡± . . The Empress threw her folding fan to the floor. . . ¡°D, Don¡¯t mess with me!!¡± . . The monitor is still showing the footage of Diaroze being whipped while looking like it was the happiest thing that happened to her. It doesn¡¯t seem to be an act either. It was clearly her perverted daughter¡¯s true self. She couldn¡¯t care less if that was some idiotic aristocrat¡¯s daughter. Unfortunately, however, that is her own flesh and blood, the person who was supposed to be her next in line to the throne. It was the Empress herself who gave birth to her and gave her such a position. There¡¯s no way she can avoid taking responsibility for this. . . ¡°DON¡¯T MESS WITH ME, DON¡¯T MESS WITH ME! DON¡¯T MESS WITH MEEEEEE!!!¡± . . The Empress stomps on the floor while repeating herself like a broken record. The video came right after the moment she disgraced herself by fleeing from the enemy. The loyalty her subordinate had was blown away and her authority is being questioned. From now on, people will point at her and say [Look, that¡¯s the woman who gave back to that pervert]. It won¡¯t be easy to recover her reputation after this. . . ¡°Take us up right now! I¡¯m going punish that disgrace myself!¡± ¡°H, However¡­¡­¡± ¡°NOWWWW!!¡± ¡°Y, Yes, Your Majesty!¡± . . The helmsman was sweating cold as she raised the ship¡¯s altitude. She obeyed the Empress¡¯s order on reflex. However, rearing their head above the canyon right now is certainly unwise. . . ¡°WOAHH!?¡± . . A tremor struck the [Odelcrois]. Dozens of explosives and missiles landed on it immediately after it surfaced above ground. Of course, it¡¯s natural for that to happen after they abandoned the cover of the canyon. Because the ship is heavily armored, the extent of the damage only amounted to some antennas and their AA turrets getting disabled. However, the next moment, the enemy battleships opened fire on the [Odelcrois]. The Calencians had set up an ambush. . . ¡°Ugh!¡± . . The Empress managed to withstand the impact which was considerably more powerful than the last one by clinging to her seat. Her fuming anger subsided in an instant. . . ¡°RAPID DESCENT!¡± . . The helmsman once again followed her order on a conditioned reflex. The anti-gravity device was offline for a moment and the [Odelcrois] entered a free fall which let them escape from the enemy¡¯s kill zone. ¡°Damage report! Main turret No.3¡¯s rotor was damaged. Further, the secondary control was hit, we have many injured and casualties¡­¡­¡± . . Hearing the damage report, the Empress¡¯s blood pressure rapidly dropped. She almost fainted so she hurriedly held her temples¡­¡­ CH 261 War of Attrition The Empress was fuming but after what happened she cooled down a bit. If she tries to leave the canyon right now she will only cause unnecessary damage to her ship. Shaking her head in frustration, the Empress snatched the folding fan that her servant had picked up for her. . . ¡°¡­¡­we were lucky that we weren¡¯t shot by the [Valizer]. Good thing that I promptly ordered a rapid descent right?.¡± ¡°Y, Yes ma¡¯am.¡± . . The staff vaguely replied. It was the Empress who ordered them to ascend in the first place. Besides, even though they were lucky that the [Valizer] didn¡¯t fire at them, they still got bombarded by enemy battleships. However, the damage the [Odelcrois] received was little. That is a given since the [Odelcrois] is boasting its heavy armor so it can keep flying with no problem even if the enemy got a few hits in. That said, since they were hit by armor-piercing shells from a relatively close range, the number of casualties was not few. Regardless, it doesn¡¯t change the fact that their situation is already pretty bad. . . ¡°Anyway, we need to find a way to escape from this hell hole first.¡± . . The Empress looked around while gritting her teeth in a sour mood. Crimson battleships and cruisers are flying tightly in the canyon with ice cliffs sandwiching them on both sides. The cliffs also seem like they can collapse at any given moment and every time the enemy explosives hit, chunks of ice and small fragments are raining down on them. With the armor and thrust power of their battleships and cruisers, they would still be able to get out even if the entire canyon collapsed on them but they certainly want to avoid such a situation. . . ¡°As I thought, the most troublesome part is how to deal with the [Valizer] huh. Aside from that thing, we can easily deal with the enemy with what we already have here¡­¡­¡± . . The [Valizer] packed enough firepower to sink a battleship in a single blow. As long as the enemy has that kind of firepower on their side, the Empress¡¯s fleet can not leave this canyon carelessly. . . ¡°Can we destroy it if we use our cruisers as a shield and rush in?¡± ¡°I, I would not recommend that, You Majesty¡­¡­.¡± . . Even one of her Yesman(woman) advised against the idea because it was too terrible. They are not dealing with the [Valizer] alone here. Using an entire fleet worth of cruisers as a sacrifice to take down one mobile fortress is just beyond the scope of acceptable damage. . . ¡°I know that already! Our enemy is just Diaroze and a poor backwater country. It¡¯s not worth it for my superior fleet to be sacrificed just to crush those insects.¡± . . Originally, the [Valizer] was a powerful but terribly difficult to utilize weapon so it was considered an extra in the Noredian army. When Diaroze asked for reinforcements, she had sent it over with the intention of getting rid of it from the armory but she never imagined that it would be used against her like this. If she had sent a few battleships over then they would be able to handle that easily enough. The Empress regrets sending the mobile fortress over but right now is no time for her to mull over it. . ¡°Then we have no choice but to send our strikers in. I don¡¯t really want to resort to this though¡­¡­.¡± . . In the first place, the mobile fortress is a weapon designed to combat fleets and fortifications. Naturally, it has its way to fight off smaller foes but smaller crafts like a striker stand a better chance at winning here. Even so, she still needs to prepare to accept some losses. The Empress was the type of person who couldn¡¯t care less about the death of her subordinates but she would still feel that it was wasteful for her to lose her highly trained elites that whom she poured a lot of resources into bringing up. . . ¡°But there¡¯s no avoiding some losses huh. Tell the Imperial Guards to prepare to sortie. After the finished resupplying, half of them will be sent out to attack the [Valizer].¡± ¡°My apology¡­¡­.Your Majesty, the Imperial Guards were already deployed with anti-ship weapons. They still haven¡¯t been able to use those against the enemy fleet yet so would it not be faster if we direct them toward the [Valizer] instead?¡± Her chief of staff proposed. Her complexion looked terribly pale. The Calencians are still raining them with explosives. The sounds of explosions and the impact of the shells are loudly echoing on the bridge. Being one-sidedly attacked while unable to do anything is mentally exhausting. If they have time to resupply then they would rather use that time to quickly defeat the [Valizer] and launch a counteroffensive. Several of the staff members also share this opinion and raised their voices. . . ¡°Even if they still have all their ammunition, those pilots have been engaging with the enemy strikers until just a while ago! We should equip the anti-ship weapons to our reserve unit and have them sortie instead, Your Majesty.¡± The staff in charge of handling striker-related matters voiced a protest. It is true that the Imperial Guards have suffered considerable damage from fighting Kisei and the others. It would be dangerous to direct them right at the enemy immediately. . . ¡°The unit we have on the reserve is only 30% of our total strikers right! We can not take down the [Valizer] with only that many strikers. If we use the unit we have on the field right now not only do we have the numerical advantage, it will be faster for us to launch a counterattack as well!¡± ¡°But¡­¡­!¡± ¡°EEEIH, Shut up! There¡¯s no time to discuss this! We will adopt the chief of staff¡¯s suggestion, inform the Imperial Guards on the field!¡± . . The Empress shouted in a frustrated tone. She also wants to get out of this situation as soon as possible. If they can launch an attack faster then that¡¯s obviously better. CH 262 Battle on the Iceberg 1 Schleer and Valentina were already expecting the enemy to try destroying the [Valizer] using their striker unit. However, with their opponent being the Imperial Guards, the Noredian elites, the matter of defending is not so simple. . . ¡°Ugh¡­¡­¡± . . Schleer moaned while avoiding a protruding chunk of ice. The iceberg in front of her was hit by a large number of explosives and scattered in all directions. The Noredians have brought out their artillery and are firing back at them. . . ¡°Hurry up with the counter-battery fire!!¡± . . The artillery can cover extremely long range and it is impossible for her to counterattack with the weapon her striker has on hand. Naturally, that¡¯s the job of their ships and their own artillery units. . . ¡°We¡¯re already doing it, ma¡¯am!¡± ¡°Then what was that¡­..Ah!?¡± . . The iceberg located not far from the [Mistilteinn] was bombarded again. The pure white mountain surface was covered in so much cloud that it gave off an illusion of a volcanic eruption. Some metallic shrapnel hit the [Mistilteinn]¡¯s armor making a jarring noise. . . ¡°Y, You little¡­..!¡± . . Her armor was not pierced but the impact from it was still enough to make Schleer jump. Turning her fright into anger, Schleer puts her finger on her control stick. She was seriously pondering the option to go there and take the enemy down herself. . . ¡°If you¡¯re going in then I can go with you you know?¡± . . The voice came from the [Dainsleif] which just landed beside her. Saki only joined the frontline a short while ago but she seems to be frustrated at the situation as well. . . ¡°¡­..no, we can¡¯t afford to go on a half-baked offensive right now.¡± . . However, Saki¡¯s words had the opposite effect. She understands that she can not afford to use a forceful tactic and needlessly risk the lives of her allies. Instead, she retreated back and contacted her artillery unit. . . ¡°Can¡¯t you do something? It¡¯s your job to take down the enemy artillery you know!¡± ¡°Even if you say that¡­¡­¡± . . The artillery officer replied with a terribly troubled voice. . . ¡°The enemy has more skilled personnel and equipment on their side. Besides, we are dedicating a good chunk of our firepower to suppress the enemy fleet¡­¡­it¡¯s unreasonable to ask your reserve unit to fight head-on against the Noredian elites in the first place!¡± ¡°Muuu¡­¡­.¡± . . Schleer groaned. As the artillery officer say, they have dedicated all kinds of ranged weapons such as heavy artillery, fortress guns, rocket launchers, and battleship turrets to suppress the Empress¡¯s fleet. The Empress is wary of the [Valizer] but the mobile fortress itself was put here after only a quick repair. Even if the enemy doesn¡¯t launch an attack on it, they can¡¯t say for sure how long they can continue to use that thing. That¡¯s why the suppressing fire is being done by other units. Their side simply is inferior in terms of firepower. The enemy bombardment hit the iceberg again. The party had to retreat further while avoiding the shrapnels and chunks of ice. . . ¡°Do not fret. Taking a few steps back is not really a problem, no? We just need to buy time. In short, it¡¯s fine as long as the enemy doesn¡¯t reach the [Valizer].¡± Said Diaroze in a composed tone. Unlike Schleer and the others, she looked pretty calm about their situation. Just like earlier, she¡¯s still the one controlling [Ex-Caliburn]. . . ¡°If we can keep the Empress in that hole for a little while longer then it will be our victory. All we need to do is stand our ground here.¡± . . Diaroze¡¯s voice carries a certain sense of reliability. Although they are being bombarded, she¡¯s so calm and logical. As a commander, she would get a full score. Comparing her current figure to the one that¡¯s being shown to the Noredian army right now would make you think that she¡¯s an entirely different person. However, the real commander here is Schleer and it should be her job to reassure her subordinates. Realizing that she¡¯s being the one reassured instead, Schleer intensely blushed. . . ¡°Buying time? If that is enough to guarantee our victory then I sure am curious about what you plan to do after this.¡± . . In the front seat of [Ex-Caliburn], Kisei crossed his arms and muttered so. He already knows that Diaroze would find a way to distract him if he asks her the full details of the plan but he still can¡¯t help but get curious about it. Since he has nothing to do without the control of [Ex-Caliburn], he¡¯d been pondering what it could be. . . ¡°It will be a little flashy. It¡¯s a plan I came up with after all. My method is not as smart as yours, Master.¡± ¡°Hmm¡­¡­.¡± . . Kisei let out a small groan and reached down to the holster on his waist. He then took out candy inside, stripped it of its wrapping, and handed it to Diaroze. Even if it was only slightly, he noticed that her voice was shaking. . . ¡°Nn, thank you.¡± . . Seeing the pink ball of sugar, Diaroze smiled and put her mouth next to Kisei¡¯s ear. . . ¡°If possible, I¡¯d love for you to feed it to me mouth to mouth though.¡± . . Her voice was so faint that it couldn¡¯t be picked up by the wireless mic. Kisei got a little thrilled by her sexy voice and replied with a whisper. . . ¡°Next time okay.¡± . . It would be bad for them to exchange saliva in a place like this. Of course, Diaroze was joking as well. . . ¡°I¡¯m looking forward to it.¡± . . A moment after Diaroze said that a huge explosion occurred on the surface of the iceberg. The impact caused a large-scale collapse and Diaroze hurriedly powered the thruster to take them off the ground. After that, a group of jet-black strikers rushed in as though to use the small opening the explosion created. The Imperial Guards have arrived. . . ¡°It seems they finally decided to come out. Good. Let¡¯s teach them why they shouldn¡¯t get impatient in a war.¡± . . While saying that in a tone like a general heading into battle, Diaroze holds up a blaster rifle. CH 263 Battle at the Iceberg 2 Using the bombardment of their allies as cover, the enemy [Renion] slowly crept forward. Against the Calencians that have inferior firepower, the tactic was highly effective. ¡°As expected of the Imperial Guards huh¡­..!¡± Diaroze grit her teeth while using a photon saber to intercept a [Renion] that charged her with its longsword. Using the raw power of her Zenith to her advantage, she forcibly pushed it back and sprayed it with bullets from the head-mount machine gun. The small-caliber bullets impact the surface of the jet-black armor, sending sparks flying. ¡°You¡¯re not going to stop me with that!¡± ¡°Ugh¡­..! In the first place, such small caliber bullets can only serve to suppress the enemy¡¯s movement. With the elite she¡¯s fighting against, they don¡¯t mind taking some insignificant damage and coming at her again. ¡°Oh no you don¡¯t!¡± However, the [Colebrand] appeared from the side and flanked the [Renion] with its lance. The jet-black giant convulsed and collapsed before rolling down the icy slope. ¡°Sorry about that.¡± ¡°Hmph, I can¡¯t afford to put My Love in danger after all. Still, you¡¯ve gotten dull aren¡¯t you?¡± Diaroze shrugged at Valentina¡¯s sarcastic comment. She does feel like saying something back but she indeed has a hard time keeping up with the enemy here. ¡°There¡¯s that too but our opponents are just too good. They are Mother¡¯s personal guards. It¡¯s not like we can win against them in a straight-up fight anyway.¡± ¡°Well, I won¡¯t deny that¡­¡­.anyway, you should withdraw to the back. I don¡¯t want to babysit you here.¡± ¡°Hmph¡­¡­.¡± Although indignant, Diaroze sighed and followed her sister¡¯s advice. That said, they are fighting in steep mountain terrain. Since it¡¯s difficult to get a clear line of sight, it¡¯s extremely difficult for her to fight at long range. What¡¯s more, they don¡¯t even know when the enemy might bombard their area. ¡°If I knew this would happen then I¡¯d have brought a carbine or a machine gun. A long rifle is just useless here¡­¡­¡± While firing up her thruster and retreating to the rear, Diaroze fired at a [Renion] she spotted in a distance. The beam only grazed the surface of the iceberg as the enemy quickly took cover. ¡°Want me to switch?¡± ¡°Don¡¯t worry about me!¡± Diaroze replied to Kisei¡¯s offer with a sharp voice. It¡¯s embarrassing even for her to show him this pathetic performance. However, just because she¡¯s embarrassed doesn¡¯t mean that she wants to give up control. Besides, there¡¯s a reason why she can¡¯t allow Kisei to take over yet. ¡°¡­..that¡¯s right, we¡¯ve already used that video. Let¡¯s make full use of it here!¡± ¡°!?¡± Unable to ignore that, Kisei¡¯s expression immediately changed. However, before he could stop her, Diaroze connected their radio to a common comm channel. ¡°Hi there, everyone. It¡¯s been a while.¡± ¡°Th, This voice!¡± The pilots of the [Renions] were startled. These pilots were usually in charge of the Empress¡¯s security so naturally, they are all acquainted with her daughter, Diaroze. There¡¯s no way for them to mistake her voice. ¡°Did you enjoy my gift? Nn? Perhaps that was too stimulating for your unquenchable thirst huh? Kukukuku¡­¡­.¡± As she said that, Kisei¡¯s mouth immediately fluttered. However, he can not say anything knowing that the comm is on. If they know that Diaroze is riding with a man, it would be like adding oil to the raging flame. ¡°T, Th, There are some lines that should never be crossed, Your Highness! ¡­..No, former Your Highness!¡± ¡°I was disappointed! I never thought that Diaroze-sama was a pervert who got off on being insulted by a man!¡± Sure enough, the Imperial Guards¡¯ replies were harsh. ¡°Kukuku, it¡¯s enviable, isn¡¯t it? I¡¯ve just awakened to true love!¡± ¡°Ugh!¡± The Imperial Guards were furious. It¡¯s the result of their pent-up frustration. Certainly, even Vuld women are quite reserved when it comes to such S&M plays but with such a thing being put on a show when they are se*ually frustrated, there ought to be some effect. ¡°Even if it¡¯s Diaroze-sama, I won¡¯t allow this to pass! Don¡¯t think you can get away with this!¡± Blinded by anger, the Imperial Guards who were scattered here and there on the battlefield quickly gathered. Naturally, they are all furiously shooting at the [Ex-Caliburn]. Diaroze hurriedly hid behind a rock. ¡°Now! It¡¯s your chance, attack!¡± ¡°Can¡¯t you come up with a more decent plan!¡± Saki slashed at a [Renion] with an exasperated voice. Diaroze¡¯s provocation was effective in disrupting the Imperial Guards¡¯ formation. This is definitely a good opportunity for the Calencians to attack. ¡°Hmph, I was just using myself as bait to create an opening¡­¡­..such a thing is commendable in a war, no? You should praise me instead!¡± ¡°I wanted to but you made it damn difficult to!¡± Kisei retorted in a loud voice while narrowing his eyes at her. CH 264 Battle at the Iceberg 3 Thanks to Diaroze, the Imperial Guards¡¯ formation was disrupted. With the Calencians waiting for their chance to attack, they immediately use the opening to their advantage. ¡°Ugh!¡± An Imperial Guard moaned as she somehow managed to parry a strike from the [Van Wolf]¡¯s longsword with her shield. The Empress¡¯s crest on the shield was scraped off due to the strong impact. ¡°It¡¯s difficult to tell who¡¯s attacking who isn¡¯t it!¡± While screaming with joy, Tersis planted a knee kick on the [Renion]¡¯s abdomen. Along with a loud crash, the jet-black striker was staggered. ¡°Time for the finishing blow¡­.¡± ¡°You won¡¯t!¡± A [Renion-bogen] fired at the [Van Wolf] with its long blaster rifle. With a red beam flying toward her, Tersis swiftly evaded. ¡°Tsk!¡± The Imperial Guard corrected her aim and was about to fire her second shot but the next moment, a large caliber shell exploded on the chest of her [Renion-Bogen]. The jet black striker instantly exploded, sending its limbs and armor pieces scattering in all directions. ¡°Leave the support to us!¡± Shouted the driver of a multi-legged tank. It¡¯s a weapon of the planetary-defense force. Their morale was tremendously high probably due to the fact that they couldn¡¯t do anything to help while the battle was taking place in space. ¡°Thanks!¡± The [Van Wolf] was designed to be a duelist. It¡¯s not a great striker on a battlefield where you can get ganged by multiple enemies but that¡¯s a different story if she has fire support. With a fierce smile, Tersis accelerated at full speed and sped the crimson Zenith to the first[Renion] like a cannonball. The Imperial Guard still couldn¡¯t recover from the kick earlier and was defenseless. With a high-pitch noise, Tersis¡¯s longsword plunged into the abdomen of the [Renion]. ¡°Too easy!¡± Pulling out the sword from the now powerless [Renion] Tersis kicked it away and retreated. A moment later, several large-caliber grenades land on the nearby mountain surface. Tersis frowned as shrapnels and ice fragments hit the [Van Wolf]. The enemy bombardment is still ongoing. They are using the type of explosive that has built-in shrapnels that are powerful enough to destroy a striker within a certain range of impact. With that kind of firepower, Even an ace like Tersis considers it a threat. ¡°Strikers aside, their artillery is a nuisance. Can¡¯t we do something about it?¡± There are certainly not a few enemy strikers that are moving sluggishly probably due to Diaroze¡¯s [AV]. However, the enemy artillery is still alive and well. In fact, their bombardment got even more intense as though they did not care about their vanguard at the front line. ¡°If our counter-battery can¡¯t do the job then there¡¯s no other way but to deal with it ourselves. Please give us permission to go!¡± Eleanor shouted in a high-pitch voice. She seemed to be quite frustrated at how they were being one-sidedly bombarded. ¡°Give it up! If you leave this place then we won¡¯t be able to cope with the enemy¡¯s offensive you know!¡± Diaroze shouted back in an exasperated voice. She just made the same argument earlier so it can¡¯t be helped that she¡¯s tired of it. ¡°You guys are the only ones here who can take out the [Renions] okay. Get it through your skull how important you are.¡± At the moment, the [Claymore] and [Jetta] are only able to keep up with the [Renion] with the support of each other and ally multi-legged tanks. No matter how low the morale of the Imperial Guards is, the difference in both machine and pilot¡¯s skills is just too difficult to overcome. That¡¯s why, Schleer and Diaroze decided on a tactic where their common soldiers stall the enemy [Renions], creating a chance for their Zenith to finish them. If Tersis and the others leave this theater there¡¯s no doubt that the enemy will break through. ¡°Muuhh¡­¡­.¡± Still, Tersis and Eleanor¡¯s go-to strategy is ¡®attack¡¯. They won¡¯t be satisfied if they are only instructed to stay on the defensive. That¡¯s why, hearing Diaroze¡¯s reply, the two puffed their cheeks at the same time. ¡°You nobles are simply too impatient [DESU]!¡± Nora chimed in with a ridiculing tone. She herself is also frustrated by this situation but she doesn¡¯t voice it out loud. ¡°You can go you know? While you take out their artillery, I get to accumulate my score here after all [DESU].¡± ¡°I can¡¯t have that huh¡­¡­.!¡± Tersis bitterly smiled at the young girl¡¯s provocation. When she was taunted like that it certainly is difficult to argue back. With no other choice, she started looking for her next prey¡­¡­.however¡­.. [[High Heat Source Detected!]] At the same time, the AI coldly reported, Tersis felt a chill on her back and reflexively accelerated away from the place she was standing in. The next moment, a thick beam pierced the ground where Tersis was standing earlier. Dry ice evaporates in an instant, causing a big explosion. On the other hand, the [Van Wolf] took the brunt of it and got blown away. ¡°Guh, was that their battleship?¡± After safely landing her striker, Tersis turns her attention to the direction where the shot originated from. It was from the sky. There, a black&white themed striker was holding a cannon that was even larger than its body. At its side was a striker of the same color theme with a giant sword on its back. CH 265 The New 4 Heavenly ¡°Checking with the database¡­¡­¡­.NOTHING!?¡± The enemy strikers appeared to be Zenith-type but there was no record of them in the database and Tersis doesn¡¯t know that such a model exists either. Their oversized weapons gave a strange intimidating feeling. Realizing that she was facing some abnormal foes, Tersis pointed her sword at them. ¡°This is Tersis van Melemheim! Name yourselves!¡± ¡°¡­¡­¡­.¡± At the sudden question, the two Zeniths seemed to be confused for a second and lowered their weapons. However, they immediately repositioned and replied. ¡°Ein Soylent, one of the Four Heavenly, the [Heavenly Thunder].¡± ¡°Zwei Soylent, same, the [Heavenly Blade].¡± ¡°Muh¡­¡­¡± Strangely enough, the voices that came from both machines sounded exactly the same. It was as if the same person spoke twice. Still, it was confirmed that the voice came from 2 separate strikers. But that¡¯s not the problem. The enemies have named themselves members of the Four Heavenly. The Empress must have newly appointed them. That makes them kind of Tersis¡¯s junior. ¡°Hmph, to name yourself the [Heavenly Thunder] in front of me¡­¡­insolent fool.¡± Eleanor sneered. Even though they named themselves the Four Heavenly, they merely took the seat that they left vacant. Moreover, Eleanor has never heard of House Soylent. That¡¯s why she thought that they were simply some third-rate stand-in. . . ¡°It¡¯s insulting that there is only the [Heavenly Blade] and [Heavenly Thunder] here but not the [Heavenly Roar] [DESU]. The rest were probably left to guard the Empress though¡­¡­.¡± In any case, if they are here then it just means that they have to defeat them. Thinking so, Nora grabbed her control stick. ¡°No one-on-one duel this time [DESU], Tersis-SAN!¡± ¡°Guh, you sure jabbed where it hurt.¡± It¡¯s Tersis and the others¡¯ job to keep the enemy at bay. If they neglect the [Renions] and focus on single combat with these newcomers then it would be putting a cart before a horse. The most effective plan would be to use their number to their advantage and take them down quickly. ¡°Wait! I can¡¯t ignore that just now, did you say Soylent!?¡± ¡°You know of them, Diaroze?¡± ¡°Eleanor, you bastard¡­¡­you just casually dropped the honorific huh¡­¡­.whatever. Do not let your gua¡ª¨C¡­¡­.¡± ¡°CHESTOOOOO!¡± Without waiting for Diaroze to finish, Tersis charged at the Zenith with a giant sword. Even though it technically looks like a sword, the thing could just be called a chunk of iron. The weapon itself is bigger than the striker. Even a Zenith would not be able to move well carrying such an oversized weapon. ¡°¡­¡­¡­¡± However, Tersis¡¯s assumption crumbled. The rocket engine installed on the cutting edge of the giant sword flashed and the guillotine-like blade accelerated toward the [Van Wolf]. ¡°NUh!?¡± As expected, even the [Van Wolf] can not take a blow from such a thing. Tersis immediately pulled back the control stick and performed a somersault back. Tersis glares at the enemy while enduring the G that would be strong enough to overwhelm Kisei¡¯s body. ¡°Careless.¡± However, the attack did not end there. 2 bizarrely shaped arms sprung out from the shoulders of the black&white Zenith. At their finger-like tips are sharp claws and what seem like muzzles of blaster weaponry. ¡°Auxiliary arms!?¡± The muzzles of the left and right auxiliary arms started firing at the same time and the low-powered particle bullets burned the crimson armor of the [Van Wolf], leaving behind a scorch mark. Although a single shot can not penetrate the armor, the auxiliary arms continue to fire low-powered bullets like machine guns. ¡°You do have the ability worthy of the name [Heavenly Blade]!¡± Although each bullet was not that powerful, the regenerative armor would eventually wear out if subjected to continuous fire. If the armor regenerator which converts shock and heat into electricity is overloaded, the armor itself would render into nothing more than fancy decoration. With a ferocious smile, Tersis brilliantly avoids the barrage. ¡°Slow.¡± However, as though it was waiting for that chance, the other Zenith fired a beam from its large cannon at the [Van Wolf]. The high-power beam that made it feel like she was facing a wall of light made Tersis sweat cold. A direct hit would completely obliterate her striker and there¡¯s no time to avoid it. ¡°Ugh¡­..!¡± ¡°This is why I hate musclehead!¡± Nora rushed at Tersis and tackled the [Van Wolf] with her Zarava like a cannonball. A loud crashing sound echoed as the two strikers dived into the iceberg sending a shockwave through the whole cockpit. However, thanks to that, they managed to escape the enemy¡¯s line of sight. ¡°Thanks!¡± ¡°You owe me one, [DESU].¡± While enduring the shock from the impact, Nora glared at the Zenith with the oversized cannon. That thing was bizarrely powerful. If she has to compare it, the firepower of that cannon can even rival a medium-sized cruiser¡¯s main turret. She has never heard about a Zenith that can operate such a weapon before. ¡°It doesn¡¯t seem like they are some mere substitute [DESUNE]¡­¡­DIAROZE! You know about these guys right? Fill us in already [DESU].¡± ¡°NUUH, even you huh¡­¡­..¡± While rolling her eyes up, Diaroze lamented to herself. However, now is not the time to worry about the absence of honorifics. She¡¯s not at the place where Tersis and the others are fighting so she doesn¡¯t have any visual of the newly arrived Zeniths but she can tell from the communication what kind of situation they are in. ¡°Those guys are genetically modified clone soldiers. We called them Soylent Sisters. Their strikers are also specially made for them¡­¡­. Since she was next in line to the throne, Diaroze was familiar with the dark side of the Imperial Army. Tracing back her memory, she continues to tell them what she knows. ¡°If they named themselves [Heavenly Blade] and [Heavenly Thunder] then their strikers would be the [Geist Fechter], and [Geist Artillerie]. Both were tuned up to match their modified specs so their power should even be higher than a royal family¡¯s Zenith.¡± ¡°So both the pilots and strikers are modified, right? Hmph.¡± Eleanor doesn¡¯t find that amusing at all. While Diaroze was explaining what she knew, the Soylent Sisters were on the offensive. Keeping up with their movement was the most Tersis and the others could do. ¡°Exactly. That¡¯s why even you guys might lose if you are careless. Don¡¯t let your guard down!¡± CH 266 Old vs New 4 Heavenly 1 ¡°Tsk!¡± Nora clicked her tongue when she saw the [Geist Fechter] rushing toward her. The power behind its acceleration was tremendous. It appears that Diaroze did not exaggerate when she said that its specs are even higher than that of an imperial family¡¯s striker. The fact that it might be faster than her [Zarava] also ticked her off. ¡°¡­¡­¡­¡± [Geist Fechter]¡¯s shoulder claws rapid fire low-power particle bullets at her and Nora counterattack with her blaster magnum while tight turning to avoid the barrage. ¡°Evade, Evade¡­¡­.¡± The voice that came through the connect comm channel was so emotionless as though it belonged to an AI. It was creepy. The pilot who named herself Zwei fired up the rocket engine attached to the tip of her gigantic sword and took complicated evasive maneuvers to avoid the shots from Nora¡¯s magnums. One can call the movement acrobatic but it is still so unsettling to look at. ¡°Eliminate.¡± While she was thinking to herself, the [Geist Fechter] approached her in a blink of an eye. The figure coming at her with a huge guillotine blade looks much closer to a monster rather than a striker. Chill ran down Nora¡¯s spine. ¡°Ugh!¡± She kicked the slope and managed to get away from the ridiculously thick blade. The jet flame emitted from the rocket engine on its edge slightly scorched the surface of the [Zarava]. It was what you call a close call. However, she isn¡¯t out of the woods yet. Aside from its gigantic guillotine blade, the enemy is also equipped with 2 auxiliary claws. But faster than the muzzles on their tips can flash, Nora thrust out the bayonet attached to her magnum. ¡°Defend.¡± The bayonet that was supposed to jam the muzzle of the rapid-fire blaster cannon was flicked away by three sharp claws. They look more fragile than the main claws but they still have enough power to parry away [Zarava]¡¯s full power blow. ¡°Move, Nora-chan!¡± Hearing Eleanor¡¯s shout, Nora obeyed her instruction on a conditioned reflex. She fired her thruster at full power and the [Geist Fechter] tried to give chase but Eleanor mercilessly shot her twin mega blaster rifle. The twin beams hit the icy slope, causing dry ice to evaporate in an instant, creating a white smoke screen. Amidst the smoke scream, three pink spots of light glistened, it was the [Geist Fechter]. ¡°It got away!?¡± Eleanor voiced her bitterness but she couldn¡¯t afford to fire a follow-up shot. A warning started to sound in the cockpit. She immediately took an evasive maneuver and a moment later, an extra-thick beam passed right next to where she was. The scattered particles from the shot even managed to make the magenta paint on her [Parfeel] bubble from the intense heat alone. [[Critical condenser capacity.]] The AI notified. Although she did not suffer any fatal damage, the machine status displayed on her monitor is showing spots of yellow. Just the graze did that to her armor so it would not be a stretch to think that even the extra-thick armor of her [Parfeel] would be charred with a direct hit. ¡°Tersis-sama! Please keep the gunner one in check!¡± The [Geist Fechter] is already tough enough as their opponent so it would be too much for Nora and Eleanor to look out for a gunner with equivalent firepower to a battlecruiser¡¯s turret. Judging so, Eleanor shouted at Tersis. ¡°I¡¯m already doing it¡­¡­.but, this is tough!¡± Of course, Tersis wasn¡¯t spacing out either. She had left Zwei to Nora and Eleanor and had been facing the [Geist Artillerie] alone. It should be easy enough for her to keep it in check at close range with it carrying such heavy equipment. Or it was supposed to be. This striker though, was unusual. The heavy blaster cannon it¡¯s carrying also has a large built-in thruster. Ein is using that like a witch on a broom to keep a distance from Tersis while occasionally providing support to Zwei. ¡°Reload.¡± A huge particle cartridge was ejected and a new cartridge was automatically fed into the chamber by a revolver-shaped magazine. Naturally, Tersis did not miss such an opportunity and rushed in to slash at it. However, her strike was blocked by its metallic auxiliary claws. ¡°Counterattack.¡± ¡°Muh!¡± In addition, Tersis had to protect herself from the rapid-fire blaster cannon with her shield. In the meantime, Ein pushed a button on her control stick. Jet flame spits out from the tip of her heavy blaster cannon and its stupidly large muzzle is quickly pointing at the [Van Wolf]. ¡°MuMuh!¡± Even with her shield which boasts the highest level of defense would have a tough time blocking a shot from such a thing. Tersis panicked a little before blowing her thrusters to escape the path of the muzzle. A moment after, a torrent of high-power particles was released from the muzzle. The flash of light was so intense that it automatically activated the anti-glare function on the monitor and the [Van Wolf]¡¯s vision went dark for a moment. ¡°This guy, she¡¯s good¡­¡­.!¡± Tersis let out a joyful smile. Despite the crisis she¡¯s in, she¡¯s actually happy about her situation. Naturally, Nora and Eleanor do not share that enthusiasm. ¡°Quickly send us some reinforcement[DESU]! This is going terribly [DESU]!¡± ¡°Our hands are full on this side too! Do something about those two yourselves!¡± Although she called for help, Diaroze¡¯s reply was merciless. Hearing that, Nora instinctively puffed up her cheeks wondering why she can¡¯t just send Kisei over. CH 267 Old vs New 4 Heavenly 2 ¡°Seriously, that sure gave us a scare¡­¡­!¡± Eleanor muttered in relief seeing Tersis managed to avoid the beam. She¡¯s currently facing the [Geist Fecher] which continues to fire at her with its rapid-fire low-power blaster cannon. She¡¯s doing her best to find an opening to attack and she can not afford to support Tersis right now. Her face is drenched in sweat and some dripped to her eyes yet her gaze is still fixed on her enemy despite the pain. And sure enough, the [Geist Fechter] rushed her with its guillotine blade. Even a veteran like Eleanor gets chill seeing such a thing flying at her with such tremendous speed. ¡°Not so fast [DESU]!¡± Nora fires her blaster magnum in the path of the [Geist Fechter]. Of course, Eleanor herself also fired her twin mega blaster rifle and twin Gatling gun at the same time and the [Geist Fechter] is now subjected to a crossfire. However, if it¡¯s an opponent that can be taken down with this much effort then they wouldn¡¯t have a hard time in the first place. As they expected, the [Gesit Fechter] fired a thruster at the tip of its blade and performed a bizarre evasive maneuver. A storm of 40mm bullets and beams vainly cut through the place it was and not a moment later, the [Geist Fechter] returned fire at the [Zarava] with its rapid-fire blaster cannon. ¡°Guh!¡± Despite the unreasonable movement it¡¯s doing, its shot was extremely accurate. There¡¯s no time for Nora to evade but she manages to guard the body by relying on the thick armor plate on the [Zarava]¡¯s arm. On impact, the particle bullets burst and disappeared. ¡°Stop with that gross movement already!¡± Eleanor shouted while throwing away her twin mega blaster rifle. The thing is certainly an extremely powerful weapon but it takes too much time to load it. With her first shot already spent, she has no time to reload. Instead, she held up her twin Gatling gun with both hands and continued raining bullets down on the [Geist Fechter] which still continued to rush at her. The Gatling gun which boasts a high fire rate keep fiercely spewing shells at the [Geist Fechter] but Zwei was unfazed by that. ¡°Consecutive evasive maneuvers.¡± With lightning-fast movement, Zwei crisply avoided the hail of shells, and a few seconds later, the [Parfeel] was already within the range of her guillotine blade. The rocket engine roared and the gigantic blade rapidly approached Eleanor. ¡°Damn you¡­¡­!¡± Escaping back, she somehow managed to avoid the blade. She immediately ignited her thruster and hurriedly took a distance. ¡°Pursuit.¡± ¡°No you won¡¯t!¡± At the same moment, Eleanor¡¯s twin Gatling gun and Zwei¡¯s rapid-fire blaster cannon fired at the same time. The shells and beams pass each other, damaging both of their strikers. Both strikers are daily heavy armored so despite being hit, they do not stop firing. ¡°Intervening.¡± However, Ein¡¯s [Geist Artillerie] shook Tersis off again and fired another shot at Eleanor. ¡°Guhhh!!¡± If she wasn¡¯t an ace, she wouldn¡¯t have been able to react in time and she along with her striker would get evaporated by the beam. Ein¡¯s shot was as quick and accurate as it is powerful. Still, Eleanor is still a former 4 Heavenly. She kicked off the ground at the last second and managed to escape from the blast. A humongous beam smashed into the iceberg, engulfing the surrounding area, and causing a catastrophic collapse. ¡°Her ally was that close and she still fired that thing at me!? What¡¯s up with her!!¡± Albeit indignant, Eleanor still looks around with some expectations. At this moment, she would gladly take the outcome where her enemy got taken out by friendly fire here. However, it was not that easy. Through the smoke, the [Geist Fechter] came rushing at her like a cannonball. There are a number of bullet holes on the surface of its black&white armor but it doesn¡¯t seem like the damage it took affected its movement at all. ¡°You¡¯re as troublesome as a certain man I know [DESUNE]!¡± From the side, the [Zarava] rushed in. Zwei is focusing her attack on Eleanor and Nora wouldn¡¯t just sit still and watch her friend get killed. She understands full well that she and Tersis alone can not take down these two monsters by themselves. ¡°Intercepting.¡± Zwei received the kick from the [Zarava] with her guillotine blade. The blade, which boasts a massive size that no ordinary striker can carry, did not even budge at all from the [Zarava]¡¯s full-power kick. Moreover, at the moment she blocked the attack, the auxiliary claws also started counterattacking. The steel claws rigidly growl as they inch closer to the [Zarava]. ¡°Muttering each and every move to yourself¡­¡­are you some kind of CPU!?¡± Nora catches the claws with her magnums¡¯ bayonets. The two iron claws and the bayonets clashed, sending sparks flying. ¡°Kuh!¡± [Zarava]¡¯s feet dug into the iceberg. Despite their fragile appearance, the auxiliary claws can even overpower the [Zarava] which had been thoroughly tuned to heighten its power output. Not only that, the [Geist Fecher]¡¯s main arms are free. Jet flame spewed from its guillotine blade as it was gradually being pushed toward the [Zarava]. ¡°Damn it!¡± Nora pushed the claws back and took as much distance as she could. At the same time, she also flicked a switch and fired the grenade launcher installed on the [Zarava]¡¯s chest. The short barrel immediately ejected a tactical grenade which directly hit the black&white monster. A moment later, Eleanor also showers it with shells from her Gatling gun. The grenade exploded and the [Geist Fechter] was wrapped in flame. Meanwhile, the 40mm bullets from the Gatling gun kept raining on the [Geist Fechter]. Still, that did not stop it. Its trinocular camera glinted a mysterious light amidst the explosion. ¡°Damn monster¡­¡­!¡± With a chill running down her spine, Nora growls at the monster in front of her. CH 268 graverobber.kun8-10 minutes Fall of the Mobile Fortress While Tersis¡¯s group was locked in a fierce battle against the clones, the people at the mobile fortress [Valizer] which was the strategic key to containing the Empress¡¯s fleet were spending their time in boredom. ¡°¡­¡­¡­¡± While gazing at the canyon on her main monitor, Liren silently strokes the trigger on her control stick. So far, there¡¯s still no sign that the enemy fleet will leave their cover. The attack from their heavy artillery and explosives had already stopped a while ago. After all, they can not afford to waste all their ammunition just to keep the enemy in check. At the moment, although she can hear strikers fighting in a distance, the battlefield as a whole feels stagnated. ¡°Liren-san, what do you think the enemy is doing?¡± A striker pilot at the feet of the [Valizer] asked in a bored tone. Even though they are on a battlefield, the fact that there hasn¡¯t been even a single shell landing anywhere nearby can¡¯t help but make them relax their guard. ¡°No movement. Same as before.¡± When the [Odelcrois], which is the enemy flagship, ascended, she was delighted at the chance to take the Empress¡¯s head herself but unfortunately, the Empress soon descended back down the canyon and she didn¡¯t have the chance to fire. Since then, strikers and such crafts started appearing but big targets like battleships and other vessels are holding up in the depths of the canyon without making even a single move. However, she knows that they won¡¯t stay in that hole forever so she must remain vigilant of any sign of movement. Thinking so, Liren glanced at the clock while carefully keeping the canyon in her line of sight. ¡°Curse you!¡± ¡°Uwah!? She took my left arm!!¡± From the radio, she could hear the screams of her comrades. From the mountain where the [Valizer] is stationed, it¡¯s impossible for her to see the place where Tersis and the others are fighting. Still, their tone of voice clearly suggested that they are struggling. Can¡¯t I support them? Liren thought for a moment. Liren doesn¡¯t think of them as her friends but she still has some sense of companionship with them. She also thinks that if she gets on their good side, she might be able to use it to her advantage later. ¡°¡­¡­..No, I can¡¯t.¡± But she couldn¡¯t come up with a way to support them from her station. If the [Valier] is in good shape then she might be able to do it but regrettably, it was returned to service after only some minimal repairs. In short, right now the fortress itself is full of defects. What Liren finds particularly irritating about its state is its inaccuracy. The sensor aside, the barrel of its main cannon was badly damaged and she can¡¯t place her shot well even if her aim is true. If this thing is in decent condition then she could have the others lure the Soylent sisters into a kill zone and take them out immediately. After all, the [Valizer]¡¯s firepower far eclipse what the [Geist Artillerie] has¡­¡­..at its present condition though, let alone her enemy, she can¡¯t even be sure if her shot will land on her allies. ¡°Haaa¡­¡­.¡± Liren let out a small sigh. All she can do now is keep her eyes fixed on the enemy. The situation is so frustrating that her finger just moves in a motion of trigger pulling on its own. Since then, more than a dozen minutes have passed. The screams from the radio are still going strong. It appears that no one has been shot down so far but she can assume that the strikers of the other 4 Heavenly aside from her have suffered significant damage. It was when Liren thought that this might be bad¡ª¨C ¡°¡­¡­!? Enemy strikers incoming, South South West!¡± A [Claymore] which was deployed to keep a lookout reported in a desperate voice. Liren hurriedly turned her gaze toward the direction and spotted a group of [Renions] sewing through the gaps between the iceberg. Their jet-black armor shone brilliantly reflecting the dim light of Galea(Star). They¡¯re already pretty close. ¡°¡­¡­tsk! A detachment huh¡­¡­.! On top of their active stealth device, they¡¯ve used the terrain to their advantage so that their presence won¡¯t be detected by their radar. They wouldn¡¯t have been able to get this close without Liren noticing otherwise. While cursing the sloppiness of her allies¡¯ detection network, Liren aimed the quadruple rapid-fire blaster cannons on both hands of the [Valizer] at the enemy group. When she pulled the trigger, countless red particle bullets rain down on the corps of [Renions]. However, they agilely spread out and none of them got hit. This is bad. Liren¡¯s face cramped up. She didn¡¯t even point the muzzles at them beforehand but they still managed to perfectly evade her shots. She¡¯s still unfamiliar with the equipment but her enemies are certainly skilled. In any case, she¡¯s failed to intercept the enemy. The [Renions] continue heading toward them. Of course, Liren keeps raining beams on them but the Imperial Guards will not falter just because of that. ¡°Don¡¯t let them get any closer!¡± The [Claymores] and [Jettas] deployed around the [Valizer] began to fight back but despite the beams and shells they threw at the [Renions], their enemies avoided them all with minimal movements. ¡°¡­¡­..We¡¯re abandoning the [Valizer]!¡± In the end, Liren gave up trying to intercept the enemy. Right now the [Valizer] does not have any anti-aircraft weapon. Once the enemy gets close, she will have no way to deal with them. Tearing off a number of cables connecting her striker to the mobile fortress, Liren jumped off the temporary control center of the [Valizer]. Seeing the violet striker leaped away, the Imperial Guards shouted behind her. ¡°That¡¯s Liren Slaine! She may be one of the former 4 Heavenly but her striker wasn¡¯t designed for close-range combat. Keep pushing!¡± The [Renions] accelerate toward the [Valizer]. On the other hand, Liren pulled out a large sniper rifle from the back of her [Pryceta] and fired it immediately. A high-power beam cut through the atmosphere and destroyed a[Reunion]. However, she could only take down one. ¡°Artillery corps! Commence fire!¡± Following the captain¡¯s command, a large number of mobile artillery units that had been secretly deployed in the distance immediately discharged 21cm AP rounds. Naturally, their target was the [Valizer]. Many of them were deflected away by the shield but the [Renions] didn¡¯t wait around and fire their anti-ship grenade launchers at it from a close distance. The shield generator was overloaded by the heavy bombardment and exploded. Most of the anti-ship missiles pierced the armor of the walking fortress and the steel giant was engulfed in flames. ¡°The [Valizer] is¡­¡­!¡± A Calencian soldier screamed. The giant fortress collapsed on its back with a loud jarring sound. The [Valizer] was only given a minimal repair so it was not durable enough to withstand such an attack. Its steel armor peeled off and hydraulic oil spewed out from the gaps as though it was bleeding fresh blood. Eventually, the [Valizer] helplessly rolled down the slope of the mountain and fell to the abyss. ¡°Notify the fleet! Mission success!¡± The Imperial Guards quickly retreated. With the [Valizer] out of the way, there¡¯s no need for them to be here anymore. The Calencians fired at their back but they easily evaded so their shots had little effect. ¡°¡­¡­.should we chase after them?¡± Asked a former Noredian soldier who now belongs to Valentina¡¯s faction. She just lost a strategic weapon to the enemy without being able to even put up a proper resistance. There¡¯s nothing more humiliating than this. If possible, she wanted to give chase and release her anger but¡­¡­¡­¡­ ¡°No need.¡± Liren gave a reply. She grins as she looks down at the clock. ¡°After all, our mission is already successful¡­¡­.¡± CH 269 Disaster When the report of the fall of the [Valizer] came in, what hit the Empress first was not joy but relief. ¡°It fell¡­¡­.finally¡­¡­¡± Exhaling a sigh of relief, the Empress rubs her eyebrows. In reality, the Empress¡¯s fleet did not stay inside the canyon for that long but as she was on the pressured side, a day felt like a thousand. ¡°With the [Valizer] removed, all we have to do is leave this hole. But¡­¡­¡± The Empress growled as she directed her eyes at the situation outside that was being displayed on the main monitor. The enemy is no longer laying down suppressive fire but it¡¯s obvious that the Calencians would concentrate fire on the [Odelcrois] if she ascends. What came to her mind was when she ordered the ascension earlier. Despite having the thickest armor of all the battleships in Nored, [Odelcrois] still suffered considerable damage. Even if the [Valizer] is no longer a threat, the enemy¡¯s firepower can not be taken lightly. ¡°¡­¡­.can you ready the [La Grume]?¡± ¡°Ha¡­¡­..?¡± The unexpected request caused the chamberlain to be confused for a moment. [La Grume] is the Empress¡¯s personal striker. Naturally, same as any other Vuld commanders¡¯ personal machine, it is always on standby and ready to be sortie at any time. Still, the Empress was never the type to head to the frontline herself. In the first place, there¡¯s no need for her to head out at this time. However, the chamberlain understood well how foolish it is to question the Empress¡¯s order. She¡¯s the type that would execute her subordinate for the most trivial reason. Rather than saying anything, the safest way would be to obey her order. ¡°Certainly, you can sortie immediately, Your Majesty.¡± ¡°Very well, I¡¯m going out. You will follow me with the [Odelcrois] and break through the enemy line. I will take the lead.¡± Saying so the Empress stood up with a conceited smile. In truth, the Empress¡¯s aim was extremely simple. The Calencians would definitely pour everything they have on the [Odelcrois] so if that¡¯s the case, she would be safer on board a smaller craft. That may sound cowardly but she thinks that risking one¡¯s life for honor and appearance is stupid. It¡¯s unlikely that the [Odelcrois] will fall but using it as a decoy is still the most reasonable plan for her. With that being the case, the Empress headed toward the storage deck where and catapulted off with her [La Grume]. The mechanics and crews were saluting her as she left but she didn¡¯t spare them a glance. ¡°Now then, let¡¯s see what the Calencian dogs have in store.¡± The Empress muttered while confirming that the Imperial Guards are gathering around her. Naturally, among her guards are 2 of the black&white strikers. They were the remaining 2 of the new 4 Heavenly. ¡°Even so, this is such an overkill. I will have to repay this humiliation a hundred times over¡­¡­¡± Even if she loses the [Odelcrois] the remaining force of the Noredian army is still plenty enough to crush the enemy despite the damage they have suffered. The Empress was seeing off the ascending [Odelcrois] while thinking something along that line but the next moment a gigantic explosion suddenly occurred on both sides of the canyon. A flash of light as intense as the sun wraps around the fleet and the violent blast and shockwaves shook the [La Grume]. ¡°Gahh!! The Empress screamed. A number of warning messages popped up on the sub-monitor, reporting the damage her striker has suffered. The Empress managed to remain conscious by shaking her head. The impact from the shockwave was so strong that without the high specs of her striker and Vuld innate physical endurance she would have fainted. However, the Empress could not afford to analyze her situation right now. After all, a number of huge ice blocks more than a kilometer in size are raining on them from above. At the edge of her vision, she could see a number of her ships getting hit directly by such debris and falling to the abyss. ¡°ARGHHHHHH!?? With her face instantly pale, the Empress managed to avoid an ice block. However, there were still many left. The canyon itself is heading toward a full-scale collapse. At this rate, she won¡¯t be able to escape. Thinking so, the Empress hurriedly activated her thrusters and soared with her guards in tow. She never expected that such a disaster would occur even before they left the cover of the canyon. Fortunately, however, no shells rained down on her when she left the canyon. As she rushes away from the collapse, the Empress wipes the cold sweat off her face. ¡°Ughh¡­¡­what just happened¡­¡­.¡± She could still hear the sound of explosions from the canyon. From the sound, she judged that she was already far enough away. It appears that the enemy has detonated a large number of explosives in the canyon. Most of her fleet is probably buried alive by this time. The armor of her battleships is extremely sturdy so such collapse won¡¯t cause fatal damage but if they are crushed under such a volume of ice then it will be difficult for them to escape. The Calencians must have planted those explosives and this was their plan from the start. ¡°C, Curse you¡­¡­.!¡± The Empress¡¯s shoulders are trembling in anger but her suffering has not come to an end yet. Suddenly, the AI voiced another warning. [[High-mass approaching! High-mass approaching!]] At that time, the light of Galea(Star) that¡¯s floating in the middle of the sky was blocked by something. It was as though night suddenly arrived and her surroundings turned pitch black. When the Empress looked up to the sky in a hurry, a potato-like massive rock was in the sky. Its exterior was dyed red by adiabatic compression. [Galea e-1]. That was the name of the rock mass AKA a satellite that¡¯s being displayed on the monitor. It¡¯s the only satellite orbiting Galea-E and it is now approaching the surface with tremendous momentum. The Empress¡¯s face, which was already deep blue, has turned white as a sheet. ¡°TH, TH, TH, THAT GIRL¡­¡­.! SHE¡¯S DROPPING A WHOLE SATELLITE ON TOP OF HER OWN MOTHER¡¯S HEAD!!?¡± CH 270 After the Disaster Despite the fact that Galea-E is a planet with relatively low gravity it would still be a disaster if a satellite several kilometers wide falls directly on it. Kisei and the others have already evacuated a considerable distance away but the shockwave from the impact still shook the ground and they could clearly see the enormous dust cloud in a distance. ¡°W, Woah¡­..Wh, what¡­¡­¡± The sound of impact heard through the thin atmosphere was as scary as the end of the world. The icebergs evaporated and the atmosphere itself was raging. Like a natural disaster. If that¡¯s what he can feel from out here then he doesn¡¯t even want to imagine what¡¯s going on at the center of the impact¡­¡­. ¡°Thi, this is, a part of your plan?¡± Kisei did not hear about this at all. He was terribly confused when he heard the urgent withdrawal order but he can¡¯t really complain if what comes after was an asteroid (It¡¯s actually a satellite) dropping on their head. ¡°Umu¡­¡­when I was asked to overcome our difference in number, this is the only way I could think of.¡± Diaroze replied with a guilty look. Her tone was vague but there¡¯s no helping it. The blast from the impact alone would be enough to render the enemy fleet immobile for the time being. Moreover, with an actual satellite dropped directly on their head some might even evaporate without leaving a body behind from the blast alone. This is the reason she forcefully took control of [Ex-Caliburn]. Knowing how death can affect Kisei while he¡¯s connected to I-con, she expected that it would negatively affect his mind. At worst, the shock from it alone might even cripple him. ¡°¡­¡­..I, I see.¡± Kisei held his head. To be honest, he also has his opinion about this. From his personal aesthetic sense, wiping the enemy out using a weapon of mass destruction without even facing the enemy face to face is not something he agrees with. However, if he was asked what he can propose they do instead, he would not be able to say anything. No matter how hard he fights, the enemy outnumbered them so much that he understood he won¡¯t be able to turn the tide alone. He knows that prioritizing his aesthetic over victory is wrong. That¡¯s why he can¡¯t say something like [How could you do this?]. ¡°¡­¡­¡­¡­¡­¡± ¡°¡­¡­¡­¡­¡­¡± Even so, an awkward atmosphere lingers in the cockpit. After all, it is what it is. The planet¡¯s atmosphere continues to rage on, telling how devastating the impact was. The reason why the sky is dim right now is probably due to the dust that got rolled up from the initial impact. ¡°¡­¡­.it seems we won¡¯t be able to send a recon unit yet huh. At least, I don¡¯t think they¡¯re all wiped out though¡­¡­¡± After a while, Kisei speaks. His eyes are on the radar screen of the sub-monitor. Unsurprisingly, the radar was filled with noises due to severe radio interference. They will have to rely on visual confirmation alone to detect the enemy. In a situation like this, it would be too dangerous for strikers or ships to be sent to the center of the impact. ¡°Umu¡­¡­.there should be some time for them to run between when they detected Galea e-1 falling and the impact. Their units that were still mobile should be able to get out in time if they ran with all their might but the problem is whether the Empress is among them.¡± Diaroze tried to answer with her voice as normal as possible while suppressing the shaking. It was the plan she concocted but it was not like she has no regret about it. ¡°Schleer, what do you think?¡± Placing her hand on the shoulder of the [Mistilteinn] that¡¯s right next to them, Diaroze asked. They were now hiding in a semi-open shelter made of reinforced concrete. When they first planned this, they prepared such shelters for evacuation purposes on Galea-E. Other ally strikers and ships are also hiding in similar shelters dotting the surface. ¡°To be honest, we have too little information right now¡­¡­..in a time like this, we should assume the worst. The Empress is still alive and the enemy fleet should still be operable to some extent. Let¡¯s operate under that premise. Schleer says while choosing her words carefully. The damage from the impact was lesser than she had initially expected so it¡¯s not impossible for the Empress to survive. They can not afford to be careless and leave themselves open for a counterattack. Since this is the final phase of their operation, this is the time when they need to be the most on guard. ¡°Right. Anyway, let¡¯s gather some information first. It would be a grave mistake for us if we let the Empress escape from this place. We must decide the match here.¡± ¡°Yes. Let¡¯s sortie our recon units immediately once the storm settles down. The laser comm would be jumbled with all this dust flying around but¡­¡­¡­we need to rebuild our recon network and grasp the enemy¡¯s position as soon as possible.¡± ¡°Umu, I will leave that to you.¡± Saying so, Diaroze turned her head to the sky and shut her eyes. ¡°¡­¡­.Haa, I want to relax but¡­¡­.I don¡¯t think I can afford to do that yet huh.¡± CH 271 The Routed Empress A few hours later. The Empress was flying through the gaps in the ridge of the icebergs with a paled face. Her striker, [La Grume], is covered in scratches and only a few of her guards are left accompanying her. There may be others who survived but they are the only ones who managed to join up with the Empress. Their state was so terrible that no one would think that they are the Empress¡¯s personal guard. The moment she saw the satellite falling, the Empress immediately decided to run. As a result, she¡¯s now separated from her subordinates and it¡¯s a situation where she doesn¡¯t even know if they are still alive or not. ¡°G, Gnununu¡­¡­¡± The Empress groaned. With only the subordinates she has with her right now, she can¡¯t possibly engage the Calencians. If possible, she wants to leave this rock immediately and return to her country. Naturally, she also wants to take revenge against Diaroze and the Calencian army but she was not stupid enough to stay around and entertain such a delusion. The Calencians do not possess enough strength to chase her back to her homeland and the smart thing for her to do right now is to recoup her strength in safety and launch another invasion. However, she can¡¯t even afford to do that right now. If she flies high, the enemy will be able to detect her easily. It¡¯s shameful to admit but it would be very difficult for her to escape this planet with only the guards she has now. ¡°Aren¡¯t there any ally units nearby!?¡± In a harsh tone, the Empress asked her ally, a small-class cruiser, the [Orbit] that¡¯s flying ahead of her. It was constructed as a recon ship with superb detection capability incomparable to that of her and her subordinates¡¯ strikers. It is also capable of wide-range communication so it is an assuring ally to have in a situation like this. ¡°It¡¯s no good, Your Majesty. The dust cloud is obstructing our visions and the radio interference still hasn¡¯t let up yet¡­¡­.¡± The reply was filled with noises and was terribly difficult to make sense of. Dry ice particles are scattering in the atmosphere and they are interfering heavily with their laser communication. Hearing the reply, the Empress clicked her tongue. She then turned toward her guards. Since the sky was covered with dust clouds, their surroundings were almost pitch black. Without their night-vision, even strikers would have a hard time seeing ahead of them. ¡°Only 20-ish huh¡­¡­..¡± The Empress sighed at the small number of escorts she has. Even though they are elites, they can do little with this number. The ones she can count on are probably only the new 4 Heavenly. Fortunately, she managed to join up with the Heavenly Blade and Heavenly Thunder since they issued an early withdrawal order before the impact. Right now, these 4 clone soldiers are the Empress¡¯s only trump card. ¡°For the time being we need to join up with our allies first but¡­¡­¡­Arghh, this is annoying!¡± If she can¡¯t muster up a sizable force, she won¡¯t be able to escape this planet. However, she definitely wants to avoid splitting her already small group to look for her surviving allies. It¡¯s a terrible dilemma. ¡°Vessel detected to the northwest!¡± Suddenly, one of the guards shouted in a tense voice. A chill ran down the Empress¡¯s spine. ¡°Is it enemy or ally!?¡± That¡¯s the question. If it¡¯s an enemy, they will have to handle it somehow with what little force she has with her right now. With their radio filled with noises, their IFF system is down as they can not take a look at their identification code. Moreover, the dust cloud has rendered their optical equipment pretty much useless. In such a situation, there¡¯s no choice but to approach and check them up close. Judging so, she had the Imperial Guard who first detected the vessel approach it with a wingman. ¡°4 [Prussia]-class ships, they are our allies, Your Majesty!¡± The Empress stroked her chest in relief at the Imperial Guard¡¯s joyful report. [Prussia]-class is a class of battleships that boast its sailing speed. It¡¯s the same class of battleships that¡¯s under Valentina¡¯s command but Valentina only commands two of such ships. If they are flying in a formation of four then it is highly likely that they are her allies. However, her relief was soon drowned by the sudden sound of an explosion. After a moment of delay, a strong shockwave followed. Obviously, it was the sound of a turret being fired and an impact. Since both were heard at about the same time, it is safe to assume that the shooter is in their immediate vicinity. ¡°Wh, What happened? Who fired!¡± ¡°T, The [Prussia] ships are pointing their turrets at us! It¡¯s them, Your Majes¨C¡­¡­..!¡± Another shot was heard and almost at the same time the communication was cut off. The Imperial Guard was shot down. With that realization, the Empress hurriedly connected a comm line with the ship that opened fire. ¡°Do you know who you¡¯re firing at!? If you don¡¯t cease this right now I¡¯m going to take it as treason, fools!¡± Normally, she would have put the offender to a guillotine blade immediately but with her allies being so few in number, she can not afford to do that. While praying inwardly that it was simply a mistake, the Empress patiently asked. ¡°Hmph, I guess a fool¡¯s mother is also a fool huh? Isn¡¯t it clear enough that I already know who I¡¯m shooting at!?¡± However, the reply was simply merciless. The Empress could taste the mockery that was carried in her attacker¡¯s voice. ¡°You bastard has already run out of luck! The Empress¡¯s head should serve well as a gift for my new master. So just sit still and die will you!¡± ¡°Wh, Wha, Wha, Wha~~t¡­¡­.!¡± Her ally has turned coat. The Empress¡¯s vision turned pitch black for a second. CH 272 Pursuit Commences Even in an environment where enemy detection via radio waves and visuals is difficult, a battleship in the middle of combat is still very much noticeable. The Calencian recon striker, the [Twilight Eye] detected the muzzle flash and immediately reported the sighting to the main recon unit. Naturally, as the Calencian army is in the middle of a search and destroys mission, such a thing can not be overlooked. A pursuit unit was formed with highly mobile vessels and quickly sortied to the reported location. ¡°This is¡­¡­.it¡¯s an infighting isn¡¯t it.¡± Schleer shouted in the cockpit of [Mistilteinn] which is currently flying through a raging storm. Her sub-monitor is displaying the image of the enemy ship taken by their recon vessel. Although the storm, dust, and general darkness make their visibility very poor, they can read that [Prussia]-class ships are engaging with a group of [Renions]. ¡°My [Prussia] is waiting in the rear after all. There¡¯s no way that my ships are in a place like this so it¡¯s probably safe to say that it¡¯s infighting.¡± . . Valentina replied while stroking her control stick. The environment was much tougher than this right after the satellite fell but the current storm is still fully capable of blowing away their strikers if they are not careful. ¡°It¡¯s bitter to admit but I have to say that Diaroze¡¯s plan worked out very well. Honestly, regardless of their chances, I never thought that they would betray the Empress so readily.¡± ¡°Umu, it¡¯s all according to the plan. Even so, there are still 3 questions left. Is the Empress still alive? Which side is the one loyal to the Empress? And whether this is truly infighting or not?¡± Diaroze, who had already yielded the control back to Kisei, said while leaning sloppily back in her seat. It seems that she was tired from her long battle. ¡°The first two we will find out once we arrive at the scene but the last one would be tough to discern¡­¡­.¡± ¡°It¡¯s also possible that they¡¯re faking it to lure us in. it won¡¯t be funny if they pretend to side with us and shoot us from behind after all.¡± ¡°This is Diaroze¡¯s mother we are talking about after all. I wonder what she¡¯s up to here.¡± Diaroze puffed up her cheeks at their serious remarks. She finds it hard to refute since it¡¯s the truth but even though it¡¯s a fact, she still doesn¡¯t like it. ¡°Anyway, it¡¯s best that we be careful.¡± With a wry smile, Kisei said that while waving his hand dismissively. Dropping a satellite on top of a fleet is a very unconventional tactic so both their enemies and allies are in confusion. In such a situation, going about this by the book would be unwise so they ought to be more flexible. ¡°Right, let¡¯s be on our guard as we judge the situation. With the visibility so poor, the battleships should not be able to exert their full potential. Our destroyers should be able to take them.¡± ¡°Whether we choose to advance or retreat, our vanguards are still the key players here. This is getting exciting isn¡¯t it.¡± As Schleer said, the visibility is too poor for large ships to move around carelessly. That¡¯s why their vanguard unit consists of a squadron of strikers centered around a destroyer. Their main force will come in once they ascertain the situation. ¡°Umu, Umu. That¡¯s right. But¡­.¡± Diaroze seems to agree with their plan but her face clouded over when she gazed at the sub-monitor. The status of their ally vessels is being displayed via the data-link system. ¡°Are Tersis and the others doing okay? If possible I want them to hang back in the rear for the time being though.¡± Yes, she¡¯s worried about the 3 who engaged the new 4 heavenly. Of course, none of them was shot down but their strikers were severely damaged. Some of them even got their arms and head blown off completely. Usually, you would hull such a machine back to the rear and assess whether they should repair it or scrap the whole thing. For Diaroze, she firmly believes that they shouldn¡¯t be on the front line like this¡­¡­ ¡°No, we also damaged their strikers. As a knight, I can not withdraw yet.¡± ¡°In the first place, it was them who withdrew first [DESUYO]? If we leave the last blow to others then we won¡¯t get the credit for taking them down [DESU]!¡± ¡°Yes, exactly! My pride as an aristocrat is in question. I won¡¯t back down until I shoot them down with my own hands!¡± That¡¯s their argument. It¡¯s nice that they¡¯re enthusiastic about this but it¡¯s still dangerous. The three had been cornered to the point that it wouldn¡¯t be exaggerating to say that their lives were in danger. However, from their perspective, they can not let the clone soldiers mess with them like that and get away with it¡­¡­ ¡°We plan to have fun together after the war so don¡¯t push yourselves okay? We won¡¯t get to do that if you die after all.¡± ¡°¡­..Uhh, seeing Diaroze worrying about us felt kinda new [DESU].¡± Originally, Diaroze was famous as a ruthless commander. Nora may snort at the fact that she has become mellowed but she has a point. ¡°Shut up! Seriously¡­¡­.¡± With a sigh, Diaroze brings up a tactical map. They are just a bit away from the location where the enemy was sighted. It wouldn¡¯t be strange if they encounter some soon. Thinking so, Diaroze gazes at the back of Kisei¡¯s head with worry. CH 273 All-out Assault As anticipated by Diaroze, it wasn¡¯t long after that that they encountered the enemy. The location was a relatively flat basin and they found the Noredians locked in a fierce gunfight. Crimson beams peculiar to Noredian weapons cut through the darkness and pierce into strikers and small ships causing explosions on both sides. ¡°They really are going at each other huh¡­¡­¡­..¡± Kisei muttered with a frown. The burning sensation in his brain was proof that there were more than a few casualties already. Even though they should have lost many people in the satellite drop, he has to wonder why they are fighting among themselves in a situation like this. He¡¯s already angry as he is. Many of their troops should still be buried alive under that canyon but instead of conducting a rescue, they are doing this. Kisei was quietly burning with fighting spirit. ¡°Hmm, are they pretending¡­¡­¡­no, they¡¯ve already crossed the line for that. It¡¯s true that the Empress is cold blood but she wouldn¡¯t waste her soldiers like this. The loss would be too much.¡± They can¡¯t see what exactly is going on from the outside but judging by the number of gunshots, it seems that quite a few Noredian soldiers are fighting in the basin. Naturally, all this information came through their recon vessel. So far, they have not confirmed the presence of other enemy forces at other locations. Most of the Noredian forces should be either buried alive underground or vaporized entirely by the impact so it would probably be safe to say that all of their surviving forces are gathering here. ¡°What do we do, should we launch an attack?¡± From the Calencians¡¯ point of view, this is a big chance. There are certainly a lot of enemies gathered here but if they perform a flanking attack then they should be able to wipe them out relatively easily. If they can destroy what the enemy has left here then the battle is as good as won. ¡°Umu, right. How are our tanks doing? I want to make our first attack as intense as possible. Coordinating an attack with our fleet would be difficult in this kind of environment but our tanks should be just fine.¡± Due to the storm and dust, long-range battery fire would be extremely inaccurate. They can¡¯t afford to put their fleet in this kind of environment. With that being the case, the tanks which are specialized in close-range combat would be perfect to provide support for their strikers. ¡°I thought that we might need them so I already have them on standby. We can¡¯t start at any time.¡± ¡°Very well.¡± ¡°How do I say this, it¡¯s kinda difficult to say which one is the general here [DESUNE].¡± Hearing Schleer and Diaroze¡¯s exchange, Nora snorted. Certainly, although Schleer is the commander here, Diaroze was the one who¡¯s making the decision. ¡°She¡¯s the right person for the job. And since she¡¯s a property of Kisei I don¡¯t see a problem utilizing her to the fullest. Besides, the final decision is still mine to make.¡± ¡°¡­¡­¡­¡± Nora doubted that but she didn¡¯t say anything more. Rather than taking Schleer¡¯s order, she¡¯s more inclined to follow Diaroze¡¯s direction. ¡°Well, don¡¯t worry about it. Right now we have to crush the enemy¡­¡­.¡± ¡°But do we know if those guys are among them? That would be the most important detail right.¡± Diaroze frowned as she got interrupted mid-sentence. Since this is a great opportunity to attack, she wants to crush the enemy immediately. With a loud sigh, she leaned forward and hugged Kisei from behind while rubbing her nape on his neck. It would be bad if she does this while he¡¯s piloting but since they are taking cover behind a rock there¡¯s no problem. ¡°Come on.¡± With a bitter smile, Kisei pats her head. It felt like he was stroking a large dog. Her wavy fluffy blond hair is very soft to the touch. ¡°By [Those guys] you mean the new Four Heavenly right.¡± ¡°Yes, Exactly!¡± Eleanor affirmed while pushing her uselessly big chest up. She was humiliated by the new Four Heavenly. If she doesn¡¯t get a rematch then she just can¡¯t feel right again. ¡°The radar is useless and the visibility is so bad. There¡¯s no way we can tell who¡¯s who right.¡± Saki said in an exasperated voice. The fact is that even though they are right outside the battlefield, the enemy still failed to detect them. Only the bright flashes of the beams and explosions can clearly be seen at their distance.¡± ¡°What, it¡¯s simple. We just thrust ourselves in there and find out. If their Zeniths are in there then we will come. Strong people gravitate to one another after all.¡± ¡°Your reasoning is messed up¡­¡­.but you do have a point.¡± It¡¯s true that they won¡¯t get anywhere if they keep staying here. It was rare but Diaroze does agree with Tersis this time. Still, Tersis¡¯s real intention was ¡®whatever, just let me attack them already¡¯. ¡°If the tanks are in position then there¡¯s no need to hesitate anymore. Firstly, we vanguards will head in and take cover here. Once we establish visual contact we should be able to have our tanks perform bombardment.¡± ¡°Let¡¯s go with that then.¡± ¡®As I thought, Diaroze still looks like the commander here¡¯ added Nora in a small voice. ¡°Well then, advance.¡± Schleer quietly nodded to the grinning Diaroze. Even if she doesn¡¯t look like the commander, she¡¯s still the one giving orders here. Unsheathing her Zweihander out from the shoulder-mounted shield, Schleer commanded as she pointed the tip of her sword to the basin. ¡°This battle will put an end to our long conflict with the Nored Empire. All units, Charge!¡± CH 274 Great Melee 1 Kisei¡¯s group flies right straight toward the basin that has turned into a battlefield. The Noredians were so preoccupied with infighting that they didn¡¯t notice their approach. ¡°We hit their strikers first, commence the attack!¡± Pointing her sword at the [Renions] who were taking cover behind a rock, Schleer shouted her command. At the same time, the [Mistilteinn]¡¯s shoulder-mounted blaster cannon roared. A high-power beam pierces through the rock surface, causing a small explosion. ¡°Newcomer!?¡± ¡°That beam color, it¡¯s the Calencians. What troublesome timing¡­¡­..!¡± A storm of beams and shells followed Schleer¡¯s opening shot and the [Renions] rushed out from their cover in a hurry. Suddenly, a number of shells impacted the rock and exploded, dyeing the icy surface bright red. ¡°Muh, ships¡¯ turrets?¡± Seeing that, Schleer groaned. The [Renions] which were the target of the bombardment panicked and scattered in all directions. Since they do not have the composure to take evasive actions now, they manage to shoot them down surprisingly easily. ¡°That explosion must have at least been caused by a 30cm turret or above. Our artillery unit is still in the rear¡­¡­.it must be one of the Noredian ships then.¡± ¡°It would be nice if we can know who¡¯s who now. We might be shooting at our potential allies after all.¡± ¡°Certainly, the force we have here is by no means large¡­¡­creating more enemies unnecessarily will be bad for us. Schleer, why don¡¯t you leave this place to us and try calling them on the common line?¡± ¡°¡­¡­¡­.right.¡± Being stopped from continuing her assault, Schleer frowned. If they¡¯re going to do that then they should have tried contacting the Noredians in advance and launched a coordinated attack. That said, since the storm rendered their long-range communication unusable, that was probably impossible. Moreover, since her initial command did give her soldiers a boost in morale, it was not a bad thing. ¡°This is Schleer Henrietta, Commander in Chief of the Calencian army. Those who wish to surrender, identify yourselves. I don¡¯t know what is going on here but if you don¡¯t express your desire to surrender, I will order thorough extermination.¡± Increasing the output of her comm, Schleer arrogantly declared so that those who wish to surrender can not ignore her. There was nothing but static for a while but a few minutes after that, a reply came through. ¡°This is the former deputy commander of the Imperial Guard Fleet, Martial Lord Yaris Contram. We are ready to surrender but we are currently having trouble suppressing dissidents. Since they do not wish to surrender, they are your enemy too, no? Let us cooperate and take them down.¡± The voice was hard to hear because of all the static but Schleer let out a sigh of relief. She doesn¡¯t know how much of what Yaris said is true but it is certain now that there are at least some units that wish to surrender to Calencia. ¡°Don¡¯t mess with me!¡± ¡°You¡¯re the traitor here you damn rebels!¡± The common line is open to everyone on the battlefield so even the ¡®dissidents¡¯ chimed in. However, hearing them, Schleer pursed her lips. This is going to be difficult. ¡°I appreciate your willingness to cooperate but¡­¡­our side can not tell the difference between your side and the enemy. If you can not have your soldiers identify themselves somehow then we will have no choice but to attack indiscriminately.¡± The other side sounded a little arrogant but they are still trying to secure their position after their surrender and there is a clear difference between those who surrender obediently and those who surrender after a fight. She knows that they are shrewd but Schleer decides to accept the deputy commander¡¯s surrender. Still, both the surrendering enemies and their enemies, in general, are using the same type of weapons. Certainly, the current Calencian army also has former Noredian forces fighting for them but they are distinguishing themselves with a big white stripe on their machines. The surrendering enemy is not the same and this is not the time for her soldiers to hesitate to shoot. ¡°I am going to have the units under my command set the navigation lights to flicker¡­¡­.I¡¯d like you to distinguish them as much as you can.¡± ¡°N, Navigation lights, is it¡­¡­..¡± There were light emitting devices installed on strikers¡¯ heads and shoulders to prevent them from colliding with other strikers when flying in a dark environment. The same goes for ships. However, it would be extremely difficult to be on a lookout for such things in the middle of combat. Thinking so, cold sweat ran down Schleer¡¯s forehead. Still, this is probably the best they can improvise at the moment. After all, there¡¯s no time to modify their IFF identifying system. . . ¡°Understood. ¡­¡­¡­also, there¡¯s one last important question. Where¡¯s the Empress? Calencia must secure her to end this conflict. Of course, if she¡¯s still alive that is¡­¡­¡­¡± ¡°She¡¯s currently missing. We¡¯d been able to confirm her presence until about 10 minutes ago but unfortunately, she has eluded us. We wanted to capture her but¡­¡­¡­..¡± ¡°In other words, it¡¯s confirmed that she¡¯s alive.¡± Since they¡¯ve already come this far, they need to pin the blame for this war on the Empress. If it¡¯s confirmed that she¡¯s alive then both sides would absolutely need to secure her into custody. ¡°I will contact you as soon as we locate Her Majesty¡¯s whereabouts. So for now, please help us suppress these dissidents.¡± ¡°Understood.¡± In the end, they could not afford to leave a hostile force alone so albeit annoyed, Schleer agreed. CH 275 The Great Melee 2 Cooperating with the surrendering Noredians is fine and all but their current problem is the poor visibility. In this almost complete darkness, it¡¯s very difficult to distinguish between friend and foe. Naturally, both sides are war veterans so they can still tell who¡¯s who when they are within sword reach of each other. ¡°There!¡± Meanwhile, Kisei was the only one using a blaster rifle. Every time a green streak cut through the darkness, you can hear the sound of a [Renion] collapsing to the ground. ¡°W, we can barely see but¡­¡­you can still shoot?¡± Diaroze asked with her face twitching. Even with night vision on, the visual is not that reliable because of all the dust and windstorms. If she had to be honest, watching him from the backseat felt like he was reflexively attacking anything that moved. ¡°I just have to aim at the strikers with still navigation lights right? It¡¯s easy enough.¡± ¡°Umuu, since it¡¯s you I think I can trust your skills but¡­..huh?¡± Diaroze shrugged. Then, a striker rushed at them with a trail of thruster flames behind it, the charging striker has the same paint color as the [Renions] but its figure is clearly not the same. It¡¯s a Zenith-type. ¡°Nuooo!? That surprised me!¡± The Zenith appeared out of nowhere. Perhaps it has been running cover to cover, hiding in the shadow of the rocks in the area. When Diaroze jumped in surprise, the white blade of the Zenith was already closing in on them. ¡°That won¡¯t work on me!¡± However, no surprise attack would be able to catch Kisei with his guard down. He took out his photon saber at the last second and parried the Zenith¡¯s downward swing. Sparks began to fly and a violent shock shook the cockpit. The leg anchors slid across the surface of the ice leaving a jagged trail as his striker was pushed back. ¡°So heavy¡­¡­.!¡± For a one-handed strike, the power behind it was unbelievable. A smile floats on Kisei¡¯s face. ¡°That must be Therese Gwenrant. She¡¯s one of the Imperial Guard captains¡­¡­.her Zenith is called [Areos]. It¡¯s a machine specialized in melee combat.¡± When it comes to the aces of the Imperial Guards, Diaroze knows everything about them from their profiles to their striker¡¯s specifications. Naturally, she recognized their attacker. ¡°¡­¡­she¡¯s good you know. You should dispatch her quickly.¡± ¡°Roger that!¡± If it¡¯s a close-range type Zenith then it would have a great advantage over the long-range type in an environment with such poor visibility. If they let someone like Therese roam free then there¡¯s no doubt that she will cause major damage to their ally. That¡¯s the reason they should be the ones to take her down. ¡°You¡¯re good, White one!¡± Probably did not expect that her surprise attack would be parried, a voice came through the open channel. ¡°Even like this, I¡¯m still the Federation¡¯s top ace you see¡­¡­.!¡± ¡°A man? I see, you¡­¡­..you¡¯re the mercenary who deceived Her Highness right!?¡± The enemy pilot, Therese, shouted with a voice filled with hatred. She must have watched the ¡®That Video¡¯ as well. The following moment, she launched a powerful thrust at Kisei. He sidestepped and avoided the tip of the blade that was thrust at him with the speed of a bullet. ¡°The Deceived Princess is also here you know! I¡¯m already head over heels for this man. Nored can go eat sh*t for all I care.¡± Diaroze immediately provoked her. Because of Diaroze¡¯s delivery, Therese was confused and her movement was slowed for a moment. Kisei did not waste that chance and fired his thruster to close in on her striker. ¡°Sh¨C.¡± With not even time for her to scream, Kisei¡¯s pile bunker roared and an iron stake was thrust into her striker. With a devastating sound of metal being crushed and bent, a large hole formed on the abdomen of the [Areos]. The Phase Transition Turbine broke down and hydraulic oil spewed out as Kisei retracted the iron stake. ¡°¡­¡­I have my qualms with winning like this you know.¡± After he saw Therese¡¯s movement, he acknowledged that she has a considerable level of skill. If it¡¯s a proper fight then even Kisei would need some time to take her down. However, winning like this still felt rather disappointing for him.¡± ¡°We can¡¯t afford to waste our time with someone like her. Sorry, but you will have to give up your fun time. If it¡¯s a one-on-one duel then I will be your opponent as many times as you want after the war is over. Be patient until then.¡± Diaroze said while proudly sticking her chest up. As an enemy, Diaroze hated the idea of confronting Kisei directly but a mock battle is a different story. She knows that she stands no chance against him but if she can be crushed completely by his prowess then that¡¯s exactly what she wants. ¡°S, Sure¡­¡­¡± If he has to be honest, his opponent just now was definitely tougher than Diaroze but naturally, he hesitated to say such a thing directly. Ignoring the twitch in his facial muscles, Diaroze waves her hand dismissively. ¡°Anyway, securing the Empress is our top priority right now!¡± ¡°The Empress huh? Seriously, where is she now¡­¡­.¡± Even with Kisei¡¯s supernatural sense, it¡¯s still impossible for him to detect someone he has never met before. Right now, they have no choice but to search around the battlefield themselves. ¡°There¡¯s been no report from our recon units about the [Odelcrois] so far. They would definitely not miss that gigantic monstrosity so it¡¯s likely that the [Empress] is on a striker right now. Let¡¯s look for her with that assumption.¡± ¡°Finding the Empress¡¯s striker in a situation like this huh¡­¡­..how unreasonable.¡± Kisei could only smile wryly at the absurdly difficult task. CH 276 The Great Melee 3 The Battleships are practically brushing each other while firing their turrets. Around them, strikers wielding swords and spears are engaging in fierce melee combat. The situation that forced both sides to go at each other with highly destructive weapons at close range has caused horrific damage to both friends and foes. The bottom of the basin which has become their battlefield is ridden with scrap metal drenched in oily substance like a mass grave filled with corpses. ¡°This is horrible¡­¡­.¡± As a mercenary, Kisei has witnessed many battlefields but such a bizarre battle is the first for him. One could call it a great melee. ¡°It¡¯s messed up, I know. I wouldn¡¯t blame anyone who gets sick of fighting after this!¡± Saki complained but she was jumped by a [Renion]. As expected of a semi-Zenith machine, its speed was abnormal. ¡°Tsk!¡± Seeing the approaching blade of its longsword, Saki reflexively unleashed her electromagnetic slash. Her sword shot out of the scabbard like a bullet with purple sparks, cutting her opponent¡¯s longsword in the middle. ¡°Ugh!¡± However, that alone was not enough to stop the [Renion]¡¯s charge. With the same momentum, the [Renion] rammed into Saki¡¯s [Dainsleif]. A violent shock shook her cockpit, making Saki¡¯s eyes roll back for a moment. The [Ex-Caliburn] quickly approached to help her. Just like Saki, the Imperial Guard who tackled her was also briefly knocked out and couldn¡¯t respond to that. A pile bunker pierced the [Renion]¡¯s abdomen before it could put up any resistance. The [Renion] convulsed before limping and crashing to the ground. ¡°My bad!¡± Shaking her dizzy head, Saki apologized. Vuld is a race that boasts its toughness so she only suffered a mild concussion and no other injuries. ¡°Don¡¯t worry about it!¡± Ten meters tall giants are fighting each other in the darkness with a raging dust storm. Such collisions were happening all over the place. ¡°But there¡¯s so many here. Isn¡¯t this more than what the recon team¡¯s report said?¡± Of course, the situation is what it is. Even a recon vessel with top-of-the-line detection equipment would not be able to spot most enemies in such an environment. Still, there are still too many enemies here. They even have battleships firing at each other above them. ¡°The majority of the surviving Noredian force on this planet is probably in this basin. It would be one thing if they want to surrender but if they still want to keep fighting then they will want to regroup or they won¡¯t be able to put up a fight.¡± ¡°The battle here is pretty flashy. The scattered enemies are probably gathering here. They¡¯re like moths flying into flame.¡± Saki snorted and kept her eyes on the surroundings. She doesn¡¯t want to show more of her pathetic side in front of Kisei. ¡°It¡¯s nice that the enemies are coming to us but this battle won¡¯t end unless we take the Empress. Isn¡¯t that right, Diaroze?¡± The one who chimed in was Valentina. Her [Colebrand] is also charred and there are scratches all over its frame. She must have gone through a fairly intense melee as well. ¡°Certainly, if we can capture the Empress then these rebels(?) would be more docile. I agree, we need to secure her as soon as possible.¡± The problem is that they don¡¯t know where the Empress is hiding. The surrendered faction told them that they would notify them as soon as they spotted the Empress and they¡¯ve also started looking for her but so far there¡¯s no report from them at all. ¡°Maybe, the Empress is not here? I think the Empress¡¯s personal striker should be very conspicuous. No matter how poor the visibility here is, the odd that no one spotted her so far is¡­¡­..¡± Schleer groaned as her face paled at the possibility. ¡°Using this battle as a diversion and run¡­¡­.Mother, no, the Empress would do that.¡± ¡°I agree. I agreed but¡­..it¡¯s also possible that it¡¯s what she wants us to think too. Pretending to run away, messing with our search net, and using the opening to withdraw¡­..that¡¯s also something she¡¯s likely to do.¡± ¡°True. The Empress is certainly cunning. We should always assume that she has her ways to outwit us.¡± Even as Diaroze and Valentina are discussing the possibilities, the battlefield continues to get worse. A battleship above them suddenly exploded, creating a pillar of fire, illuminating the whole basin for a moment. Kisei couldn¡¯t help but hold his head. ¡°¡­¡­even so, we can¡¯t afford to entertain this quagmire of a situation forever. Half-measure will not do us any good right now. Even if it¡¯s a gamble, we should decide on a clear plan right?¡± ¡°It¡¯s rare for you to be assertive like this. What do you think Schleer? How about we ask My Love to search the outer edge of the basin? If it¡¯s him, he should be able to more or less rely on his sense.¡± In the middle of a melee, it would be unreasonable to ask him to find someone with his senses but it would be a different story if there were no enemies around. If the Empress intends to hide herself, there will not be many escorts around her. If it¡¯s Kisei then he should be able to sniff out a suspicious group right away. ¡°Eh? Unnnn, I think I can do that but.¡± With a frown, Kisei started to ponder. It¡¯s certainly not impossible for him but he¡¯s a little reluctant to leave the battlefield. Even a good pilot like Saki just got jumped earlier after all. If possible, he wants to remain here to support his allies. ¡°Then please do. There¡¯s no one other than My Love who can do this after all.¡± ¡°¡­¡­that¡¯s true. Then Kisei, we will leave searching for the Empress to you.¡± After a moment of thinking, Schleer agreed to the plan. There¡¯s her rational side too but a part of her also wants Kisei to be away from the battlefield where people are dying left and right. Even right now, his mind should already be pretty exhausted by all the death so far. ¡°B, But¡­¡­.¡± Kisei replied hesitantly but Diaroze gently patted his head. With a short sigh, he made his decision. ¡°I understand. Let¡¯s go.¡± ¡°Alright, you can leave escorting My Love to me.¡± Valentina puffed up her plump chest and smiled. Schleer was taken aback with her face twitching for a moment but she quickly retorted. ¡°Very well. But I¡¯m going too.¡± She can¡¯t leave Kisei alone and this melee battle is harsh for her striker since it¡¯s specialized in long-range bombardment. Escorting her husband, keeping Valentina in check, and using it as a pretext to leave a battle where she¡¯s at a disadvantage. Three birds with one stone. ¡°The commander herself is leaving the front line huh¡­¡­¡± Diaroze grumbled with an exasperated expression but Schleer simply ignored her. CH 277 The Search for the Empress In the end, it was decided that Kisei would leave the battle with Schleer and Valentina. They did not assign other escorts. The battle inside the basin is already intense and unpredictable so they do not want to pull away too much of their force. Because of that, Kisei and the two are currently flying over the mountain range just outside the basin. Both sides concentrated their forces in the center of the basin but the outside was so peaceful that it felt like a lie. Aside from their group, there was not even a single striker or warship around at all. ¡°But¡­¡­.it¡¯s not like I¡¯m a manfinder you know. Wouldn¡¯t it be better if we have more manpower here?¡± Unlike his usual self, Kisei doesn¡¯t seem to be that confident. He has no plan of losing in a fight but what they¡¯re doing right now is tracking. He was usually used like a radar of some sort but securing the empress is something so important that it can change the tide of the war. No matter what, letting her escape is not an option. ¡°I¡¯ve already dispatched as many recon ships as we could¡­¡­ the [Twilight Eyes] is sweeping the area as well. Still, with our radar and visuals so unreliable, they won¡¯t be of much help even with their specialized equipment¡­¡­.¡± By flying along the ridgeline, a small enough group should be able to escape their net. That¡¯s why they chose to rely on Kisei¡¯s 6th sense but¡­¡­. ¡°So, are there any signs of them at all, My Love? I want to quickly find her and beat her up.¡± ¡°Nope, none.¡± Kisei¡¯s reply was extremely brief. However, that¡¯s within their expectations. ¡°I guess as much.¡± Diaroze, who¡¯s in the backseat, folded her arm and muttered to herself. ¡°Rather¡­¡­.the Empress is probably using the new 4 Heavenly as her escorts, right? If even Tersis and the others can¡¯t handle them then they must be quite some aces. This is going to be troublesome.¡± Kisei frowned while remembering the battle he had with the old 4 Heavenly. Three of them managed to give him a hard battle. It¡¯s terrifying to think that there are two more pilots at the level that can corner the 3 of them. ¡°About that, I have a plan.¡± The one who came up with a solution was Schleer. If the new 4 Heavenly go all out in a defensive battle, they can assume that they won¡¯t be able to win easily even with Kisei at their side. It¡¯s also possible that the Empress will be able to conjure something up when they¡¯re busy dealing with them as well. ¡°This area has our old communication lines and radio bases installed underground. That¡¯s why we should be able to connect with our main force even in this condition.¡± ¡°If the new 4 Heavenly show up, we call the old 4 Heavenly. Well, that¡¯s a simple strategy.¡± Schleer pouted at Valentina¡¯s comment. ¡°¡­¡­.it will take some time for them to arrive but there¡¯s no other way. Aside from Kisei-san, they are the only group who can at least hold back the new 4 Heavenly after all.¡± ¡°Right. If everything goes well then they might even be able to crush the new 4 Heavenly after all¡­¡­.or they will try. Let¡¯s have them stall the enemy until rescue arrives then.¡± Humiliated at the hands of the new 4 Heavenly, Tersis and the others seem to be burning with the desire to get even. Personally, Kisei himself does have some interest in fighting them but he would only feel bad snatching someone else¡¯s prey. ¡°That said, that¡¯s only if we find the Empress. Since there¡¯s no sign of her so far, there¡¯s no need to worry about that right now. Still, a full planetary search would be overkill right?¡± Galea-E is not a very large planet but it¡¯s still unreasonable to search the whole planet for a single striker. Even if they decide to go that route, it would be nice if they know what they want to look for. ¡°I thought you¡¯d say that so I came up with a plan.¡± With a grin, Diaroze tapped on Kisei¡¯s shoulder. Kisei is currently piloting so she¡¯s plenty of time to think. Diaroze put up a tactical map on Kisei¡¯s sub-monitor. Her expression looked like it was saying ¡®I¡¯m here for a situation like this¡¯. ¡°First, we should start thinking like the Empress¡­¡­.And there¡¯s no doubt that her first priority would be to escape from this system.¡± ¡°Tactically speaking, there¡¯s no way for her to recover from this battle anymore after all. It would be natural to think that she wants to get back to her home turf safely for now¡­¡­¡­and?¡± As though she was saying ¡®That goes without saying¡¯ Valentina grins and urges her to continue. ¡°Even so, there are many obstacles preventing the Empress from safely escaping. The Noredian main forces certainly landed on Galea-E but the small units should still be in orbit. That included the surrendered noble forces as well.¡± With a grin, Diaroze leaned out of her seat and pointed at the monitor in front of Kisei with her finger. As he was crushed by her plump chest from behind, he moaned in a small voice. ¡°With Duchess Angel in our custody, there¡¯s a possibility that the noble forces will try to capture the Empress to exchange her for their mistress. A ransom for a family head is always exorbitant after all.¡± That¡¯s what a Vuld loyalty amounts to. Those who sincerely obey the Empress are mostly only her Imperial Guards. If betrayal can bring more benefits to them then the nobles would turn their back to the Empress without batting an eye. ¡°In other words, even if she managed to get to space, the Empress would still be under threat¡­¡­¡­if she leaves the planet normally that is.¡± ¡°The polar orbit?¡± Schleer clapped her hand as though she realized something. Both the Calencian fleets and the Noredian noble fleets should be circling the orbit of Galea-E right now. Naturally, they¡¯re there waiting to intercept the enemy. Of course, the Empress should be wary of them so she would pick a route to avoid them. If that¡¯s the case then the polar orbit comes to mind¡­¡­..it is a route that passes over the north and south poles of the planet. Because of that, the fleets would need some time to arrive at their point of exit. ¡°Exactly. And. Here¡¯s the main subject. If she intends to swing herself away at the polar orbit then she will need a mass driver facing either the north or the south pole and a ride booster. If she wants to escape back to Noredian territory alone then she can¡¯t waste her propellant by breaking through the atmosphere with her striker¡¯s engine after all.¡± Galea-E has gravity and atmospheric density that¡¯s thin enough for strikers to enter and exit its satellite orbit without any problems. However, if she intends to travel an ultra-long distance then she will have to consider her limited fuel, thus she needs to minimize its usage to some extent. ¡°¡­¡­I see! So the Empress is aiming to get to our supply base.¡± Their supply base is utilizing a mass driver and mass catcher for sending and collecting supplies with ride boosters on standby for striker transportation. It has everything the Empress requires to escape the planet. ¡°Hmm, a supply base with a mass driver pointing to either north or south pole,¡­¡­..this place huh.¡± A red dot lit up on the tactical map. It¡¯s not far from where they are right now. ¡°Seriously, your head is really the only good thing about you huh¡­¡­..very well, shall we?¡± Valentina concluded with a wry smile. CH 278 Assault on the Supply Base Although they called it a supply base, the only thing visible from outside the base itself is a metal shutter installed halfway up an iceberg. Most of the facilities are set up underground and even the most conspicuous facility, the mass driver itself which is a mass ejection device that looks like a roller coaster rail is retracted and camouflaged inside an armored dome. ¡°Hmm, as far as I can see there¡¯s nothing unusual here though¡­¡­¡± At the base¡¯s front gate, Diaroze groaned to herself. The armored shutter gate was shut close and there was not even a single scratch on it. No sign of anyone trying to force their way in either. ¡°¡­..I¡¯ve checked the sensors and the logs show no record of anyone entering or leaving this place in the 24 hours.¡± Said Schleer as she removed the cable connecting the terminal next to the shutter to her [Mistilteinn]. Naturally, the base is equipped with a security system to keep away intruders. However, everything here says that there are no abnormalities. Neither the infrared sensor nor the vibration sensor seemed to detect anything out of the ordinary. ¡°Do you think¡­..we are wrong?¡± The Empress should already know the locations of all the bases on Galea-E. After all, albeit only for a brief period, this place was under the control of Nored for a time. Naturally, they would have mapped out the whole planet and such information should have already been sent to the Empress¡¯s personal vessel. That¡¯s why if the Empress plans to use the escape plan that Diaroze predicted, she would definitely visit this place. However, since there¡¯s no sign of intruders here, they need to entertain the idea that Diaroze¡¯s prediction might be off. ¡°Hmm¡­¡­.one question though. Is this place currently manned?¡± ¡°Yes. Naturally, I¡¯d stationed people here but¡­¡­.since the planned drop site for the satellite is not that far from here, I¡¯ve issued a withdrawal order to them just in case.¡± ¡°So it¡¯s unmanned right now? Then that would be strange isn¡¯t it.¡± Kisei frowned at Schleer¡¯s reply. He lightly pushed his control stick forward and continued. ¡°I can feel faint signs of people here. I don¡¯t think this place is deserted.¡± ¡°Hm? My Love, did you not say that there was no sign of the enemy here earlier?¡± Valentina asked. Their current strategy relies on Kisei¡¯s unnatural detection ability. Of course, when they arrived at the supply base, they had him check for any hostile presence. And the reply they got from him was that there were no enemies around. ¡°I didn¡¯t judge them as enemies because I don¡¯t feel the hostility or murderous intent from them¡­¡­rather, their fighting spirit is just so weak that I don¡¯t think it belongs to front line soldiers. That¡¯s why I thought they were staff we stationed in the rear.¡± ¡°There¡¯s no way that¡¯s the case¡­¡­all soldiers and staff of this base should have already been transferred to the rear already. So if there¡¯s truly someone here I think that they are the enemy.¡± Schleer tilted her head and frowned. She would never question Kisei¡¯s ability. If he said something is there it¡¯s there. With that in mind, her expression immediately turned grim. ¡°It¡¯s probably the Empress.¡± Valentina crossed her arms and turned her gaze at the gate¡¯s terminal. ¡°Electronic warfare is one of the Noredian army¡¯s specialties. It would not be strange for them to be capable of fabricating the logs of an outdated security system like this one.¡± They hacked the security system, walked through the front door, and faked the logs¡­¡­¡­.that¡¯s what you¡¯re saying?¡± Schleer¡¯s face turned bitter. Unfortunately, the security system here is quite old-fashioned. An ultra-high performance system of the Empress¡¯s personal striker should be able to easily hack it, it might even be able to do that automatically. ¡°But it¡¯s strange that Master doesn¡¯t feel any hostility or fighting spirit from them at all. If it¡¯s just the Empress then, well, I say that it might be possible if she simply wants to escape. That woman is quite a coward after all.¡± ¡°True, she¡¯s the mother of someone who ran from a duel without hesitation after all. It¡¯s scary how these traits are so inheritable.¡± ¡°¡­¡­you were supposed to come out of the same womb as I though?¡­¡­well, whatever.¡± Diaroze¡¯s face turned a little sad at the fact that even at a time like this, Valentina still remembers to chide her but she simply let out a sigh and switched her mood. ¡°The Empress aside, the problem here is dealing with her guards. Considering her personality, it¡¯s impossible that she took separate action and left herself unprotected. In other words, it would be better to think that those guarding her right now are someone who bore neither hostility nor fighting spirit on the battlefield.¡± ¡°You mean the clone soldiers you mentioned before? Well, they¡¯ve already broken the biological experiment pact by creating them. It wouldn¡¯t be strange if they go a step further and tamper with their emotions too.¡± Kisei frowned. As someone who rather enjoys the feelings of people on the battlefield, it¡¯s hard for him to forgive such an act. ¡°That¡¯s highly likely¡­..anyway, it¡¯s certain that the enemies are inside. It would be troublesome if they manage to use the mass driver to get to the satellite orbit. We¡¯re going in.¡± After confirming the time on her watch, Diaroze said so and everyone nodded in agreement. CH 279 The New 4 Heavenly, Intercept In any case, their top priority is to secure the Empress as soon as possible. After requesting help from Tersis and the others, the party rushed inside the supply base. ¡°Hmmmm¡­¡­..¡± Kisei groaned as he looked around. Currently, he¡¯s inside a connecting passageway for carrying in supplies. The passage itself was designed for vehicles carrying large containers to pass through so they are very wide. Even the 12 meters tall giants they are piloting can walk around freely inside. The inside looked like a corridor of flat walls made of reinforced concrete. The place felt so dry and cold that it sent chills down their spines. The white lights installed on the ceiling were faint and unnerving as well. It just felt like an enemy could appear from any corner to ambush them. ¡°My Love, can you tell where they are?¡± ¡°Nope, their presences are somewhat faint¡­¡­I can¡¯t accurately tell like usual. This might be a little bad for us.¡± ¡°¡­¡­.this is unexpected. It seems the clone soldiers are more troublesome than I first thought.¡± Valentina groans as she rubs her chin. Ordinary soldiers would be detected using Kisei¡¯s senses so they¡¯ve used his ability in place of their radar but¡­.. ¡°Putting the clones aside, can you sense the Empress?¡± Schleer interjected. Yes, the clones are merely escorts. Their objective is still the Empress. ¡°It¡¯s difficult since we are a closed space you see. Hmmm.¡± Placing a finger on his forehead, Kisei bitterly groaned. Even if they tell him to detect their presence, what he feels are just some vague signs. It¡¯s not something so clear-cut. Seeing Kisei groaning with cold sweat dripping down his face, Diaroze smiled wryly at him.¡± ¡°Well, we know what they are after here. There¡¯s no need for us to search the entire base. They might even be waiting to ambush us ahead.¡± ¡°Eh¡­..Ah, R, Right!¡± Diaroze exasperatedly stared at Schleer who seemed surprised. Her huge indigo striker even looked somewhat embarrassed as it looked away. It was so human-like that you sometimes can¡¯t think of it as a simple weapon. ¡°¡­¡­in other words, we need to 1check out the mass driver. I¡¯m almost certain that they came here just for that. At worst, we can just destroy the mass driver ourselves.¡± ¡°D, Destroying it¡­¡­.?¡± The construction and upkeep costs of mass driver facilities are not cheap. Since the Calencian royal family budget is in a dire state due to the war, Schleer personally would like to avoid creating unnecessary spending. However, since they can not afford to let the Empress escape, that might be their only choice. ¡°What, don¡¯t worry about it. It¡¯s just a small mass driver facility after all. The rebuilding cost should be a chump change for this self-proclaimed next empress right?¡± ¡°NN!¡± Valentina who wasn¡¯t paying attention turned toward them with a surprisingly sour look on her face. Of course, although hers is the lowest seat, she still belongs to a family of great power. She is not without money. That said, it¡¯s not the kind of money that she can casually produce. ¡°I, I don¡¯t mind¡­¡­..as long as I get the throne, I can use as much money as I want after all.¡± ¡°Umu, Umu, as expected of my little sister. That¡¯s exactly the attitude a ruler should take.¡± ¡°Aneu¡­¡­¡­Diaroze, you keep quiet!¡± Seeing Diaroze¡¯s silent grin, a small smile floated on Kisei¡¯s face. ¡°Anyway, let¡¯s head to the base of the mass driver as fast as possible. We don¡¯t know when they might arrive after all. At worst, they might already be preparing for launch¡­¡­.¡± Diaroze spoke in a tense voice to compensate for the easygoing mood earlier. Naturally, all three raised their voices to affirm her. ¡°The mass driver¡¯s injection chamber should be just straight ahead.¡± The base is not large so they reached a large gate in no time following Schleer¡¯s guidance. She then immediately operated the gate¡¯s control panel. ¡°¡­¡­this might be an ambush.¡± Kisei warned. It may be difficult for him to grasp the presence of the clones but he can tell that there are enemies on the other side of the gate. However, he can not tell their exact number. If they are ordinary soldiers then he would be able to tell but in this case¡­¡­.. ¡°Hmm¡­¡­so they got here first huh. Kisei-san, please step back a little.¡± Kisei nodded and took a few steps back as Schleer operated the panel. With a dull sound, the armored shutter began to lift. ¡°¡­¡­!¡± As they predicted, low-powered blaster bullets rained down on the [Mistilteinn] that stood in front. Schleer hastily put the [Mistilteinn] shoulder in front, using the shield mounted on it to cover herself and retreat. ¡°Schleer!¡± Valentina yelled. A Black&white Zenith carrying a gigantic sword rushed at Schleer with a furious speed. It¡¯s the [Geist Fechter] that fought Tersis and the others in the earlier battle. ¡°Tsk!¡± With no time to retreat, Schleer immediately unsheathed the zweihander from her shoulder-mounted shield. However, before she could activate the built-in electromagnetic ejection, an anti-ship missile was fired from behind her, intercepting the [Gesit Fechter]¡¯s advance. No matter how thick a striker¡¯s armor is, it can not withstand a blow from an anti-ship missile. Knowing that, the [Geist Fechter] activated its right foot anchor and made a sharp turn. ¡°Take this!¡± Schleer did not miss that chance and fired her thruster, dashing forward with her shield. Her large striker accelerated at once and shoulder tackled the [Geist Fechter] that had lost its balance. ¡°Ugh!¡± Even a super-high-performance Zenith can not withstand such a powerful tackle so it was knocked backward. Using the same momentum, Schleer and the others rushed into the mass driver launch site. Isolated from the outside world, the mass driver launch site which is covered by a huge armored dome is large enough for strikers to engage in combat. Inside, there was a mass driver that looked like a roller coaster rail and 4 Black&white Zeniths. ¡°That must be all of the new 4 Heavenly then. This is going to be a difficult battle¡­¡­¡± Following Schleer, Valentina muttered with her face slightly twitching. CH 280 Wicked Star Vs the New 4 Heavenly 1 Since the mass driver was designed to launch containers and ships, the dome that houses the facility itself is extremely large. The ceiling is very tall and the place is wide enough for strikers to move around uninhibited. ¡°As expected¡­¡­this is going to be troublesome after all!¡± Schleer grumbled as she fired off her heavy machine gun. The [Geist Fechter] on the other hand swiftly sews through her line of fire and continues to approach her. Despite its ridiculously oversized guillotine blade, it¡¯s as nimble as any lightweight Zenith would. ¡°Don¡¯t worry about them! As long as we can take down that mass driver then it¡¯s our victory!¡± ¡°I know that already! Still¡­¡­¡­¡± The mass driver was built with the same materials they built warships with. Even with [Mistilteinn]¡¯s firepower, it¡¯s not something that can be destroyed with a couple of shots. Moreover, since the clones are bearing down on them, they can¡¯t focus and shoot at the mass driver itself. Schleer stepped back a little and fired her shoulder-mounted cannon but the green beam simply dispersed after it scratched the surface of the mass driver. ¡°Argh, who ordered them to build it this strong!!!¡± In their situation, it would be impossible to find an opening to focus on destroying the mass driver mid-fight. That¡¯s why she focused on defeating the foe in front of her for the time being. ¡°But I still can¡¯t see the Empress around. That woman, just where is she hiding¡­¡­..¡± Valentina pondered for a moment before her thought was interrupted by the [Geist Artillerie]¡¯s bombardment. It seems that it reduced the firepower since they are within a confined space but the [Geist Artillerie]¡¯s still packed enough power to kill her instantly with a direct hit. Valentina kicked the road and jumped to escape the spine-chilling bombardment. After a brief moment, the beam landed and completely scooped out the reinforced concrete, and the scattered shards were hurled at the [Colebrand]¡¯s armor. ¡°My Love! Let¡¯s take that thing down together. Prolonging this fight will not be good for us!¡± Originally, the plan is to have the old 4 Heavenly deal with the clone soldiers. However, no matter how big the place is, this dome is still a confined space. They can¡¯t move around as they did in an open field. At this rate, one of them might not be able to avoid a direct hit. ¡°Got it!¡± Even Kisei finds the clones to be difficult foes. Their thin presences remain consistent even after the battle began in earnest. Since it is difficult to detect them, he can¡¯t predict his enemies¡¯ movement as well as he usually can. That¡¯s why he¡¯s willing to do anything, even ganging up on his enemy, to reduce their number. ¡°Diaroze, I¡¯ve heard about the Fechter and Artillerie but¡­..what about those guys?¡± The striker Kisei is facing has tonfas in both of its hands. There¡¯s also another striker dual-wielding 8-barrels organ cannons. Both are colored Black&white and seem to belong to the same Geist series as the Fechter and Artillerie with auxiliary claws on their shoulders. ¡°The tonfa one is [Geist Kampfer] and the one with the organ cannons is¡­..I think it¡¯s [Geist Jaeger]? That thing is supposed to be the [Geist Artillerie]¡¯s close-range weapon though¡­¡­..¡± They must be the new [Heavenly Eye] and [Heavenly Roar] respectively. The [Heavenly Eye] probably had to switch to close-quarter combat because it can not use sniper equipment in a confined space like this. So that¡¯s probably not its main weapon huh? ¡°Well, but I have to warn you. They are not opponents that Master can easily defeat alone you know!¡± After all, these new 4 Heavenly had overwhelmed the old 4 Heavenly before with just 2 of them. Even if Schleer and Valentina¡¯s ability as a pilot could be categorized as ace-class, no, you can even call them first-rate aces, but they are not super-first-rate aces. Against such opponents, who knows how long they can hold their own. Moreover, there¡¯s no doubt that the two will burden Kisei in this fight. ¡°Of course!¡± Shouting in reply, Kisei pointed the muzzle of his mega blaster rifle at [Geist Kampfer] that¡¯s closing in on them. He pulled the trigger and an extra thick beam was fired at the aggressor. ¡°¡­¡­¡­.!¡± The [Geist Kampfer] casually dodged the beam. Kisei immediately fired a follow-up shot but the [Geist Jaeger] rained down 50mm shells on him with its organ cannons. With a total of 16 barrels, a bombardment from them is more than enough to turn a heavily armored striker into scraps in an instant. ¡°Ugh¡­..!¡± With such a wide area of bombardment, it¡¯s hard to dodge all of the shells. Kisei managed to fire his thruster and escaped from the shower of shells but the [Geist Kampfer] immediately jumped out and followed him. ¡°Exterminate.¡± Kisei managed to catch the tonfa with his photon saber he pulled out with his left hand but at the same time, the auxiliary claws on the Kampfer¡¯s shoulders began to attack the [Ex-Caliburn]. ¡°4 arms huh! ¡­¡­.Interesting!¡± But Kisei is not someone who can be defeated so easily. By using the [Ex-Calburn]¡¯s body to deflect the blow, he managed to escape the claws. The tip of the claws scraped against the chest armor, making a loud screeching noise. ¡°My Love!¡± There, the [Colebrand] charged in with its lance. The [Geist Kampfer] took a casual step to avoid the charge but thanks to that Kisei was given an opportunity to retreat. ¡°Thanks!¡± With the auxiliary claws, dealing with it at close range became twice as difficult than a normal striker. He wants to keep his distance but¡­¡­ ¡°Closing in.¡± Supported by the shower of shells from the organ cannons, the [Geist Kampfer] rushed at him again with a bullet-like speed. It would be difficult to keep his distance when his opponent has such acceleration power. Judging so, a fierce smile floated on Kisei¡¯s face. ¡°So what! I¡¯m taking you down¡­¡­.!¡± CH 281 Wicked Star Vs The new 4 Heavenly 2 The tonfa strike that [Geist Kampfer] threw at him was parried by his photon saber but naturally, the attack was followed by blaster shots from the auxiliary claws. Seeing the claws approaching, Kisei immediately fired the head-mount machine gun at them. ¡°¡­¡­¡­Left auxiliary claws damaged.¡± Even a 12.77 peashooter could deal significant damage when the shots land inside the muzzle. The claw¡¯s internal instructor was damaged with its loading chamber blown off by the detonation of the particles loaded inside, causing a small explosion. As a result, the left claw started to convulse and stopped moving. ¡°Minor damage sustained. Resuming battle¡­¡­¡± However, even though that was supposed to be a surprise attack, the voice from the radio was still as emotionless as a computer. The [Geist Kampfer] thrusts its tonfas outward and unleashes a tornado-like spinning attack. ¡°Muh!¡± The physical prowess of the Geist series is beyond even that of the [Zarava]. Even with the [Ex-Caliburn]¡¯s upgraded armor, a direct hit would be no joke. Judging so, Kisei immediately took a step back. ¡°Commence fire support.¡± The [Geist Jaeger] fired its organ cannons. Even with Kisei¡¯s skills, it¡¯s still impossible to completely evade a barrage from 16-barrel cannons. Clenching his teeth, Kisei turned the thruster to full power. The jet flame of the main thruster scorched the reinforced concrete road and the white striker managed to get away from the enemy¡¯s line of fire. ¡°HIEE.¡± Seeing the reinforced concrete literally getting evaporated, Diaroze let out a pathetic cry. Rather than destroyed, it would be more accurate to describe it as annihilated. The firepower from two 50mm 8-barrel organ cannons was simply overkill. ¡°My Love! Get back!¡± However, just because he avoided the bombardment, it didn¡¯t mean that Kisei¡¯s ordeal was over. Almost at the same time, Valentina¡¯s voice rang out, an extra-thick beam with an output that shouldn¡¯t be used in an indoor area suddenly raced toward the [Ex-Caliburn]. ¡°You¡­..little!¡± Kicking off the road below, he managed to get away just in time. The beam missed its target and directly hit the armored dome, making the armor plate that could even withstand a shot from the battleship¡¯s turrets red hot. ¡°They are focusing on us right! What are my foolish sister and that stupid princess doing!!¡± ¡°I¡¯M SO SORRRRRYYYYYY!¡± ¡°Who are you calling foolish sister!¡± Diaroze raised her complaint but Schleer was already trying her best to keep the [Gesit Fechter] busy while Valentina was trying to support Kisei but with the blaster shots from the [Jaeger] and [Kampfer]¡¯s auxiliary claws, she couldn¡¯t do much. Speed, power, firepower¡­¡­¡­the troublesome auxiliary claws that move like they have a mind of their own. Kisei is one thing but the enemies this time are simply too much for Schleer and Valentina to handle. The calmest part of his brain is already urging them to retreat. ¡°But I can¡¯t afford to do that now¡­..can I!!¡± However, he quickly dismissed the idea and reignited his fighting spirit. If they lose sight of the Empress here, she will definitely return to her country and launch another invasion. Her army certainly suffered great damage in this battle but the Nored empire probably has more than enough to rebuild its army. On the other hand, Calencia does not have enough power to repel another invasion. Both their supplies and war budget are already running low as it is. Reorganizing their army for another invasion would be extremely difficult. There is no way for Calencia to win other than to capture the Empress here. That¡¯s why withdrawal is not an option. ¡°If I can take one down then I will be able to manage somehow¡­¡­¡­!¡± Kisei muttered so as he observed the battle. The [Geist Artillerie] is reloading its particle cartridges. The [Kampfer] was beelining toward him again while the [Jaeger] is providing covering fire. Only the [Fechter] was kept busy as it had to desperately avoid the fierce fire from Schleer. ¡°Valentina! Go help Schleer!¡± ¡°What? ¡­¡­I see, got it.¡± After quickly assessing the situation, Kisei ordered. Valentina hesitated for a moment but she immediately agreed and turned back. Rather than some limited support, it would be better if she team up with Schleer and take down the [Fechter] first. After he saw her off, Kisei grinned and fired his thruster, taking cover behind the mass driver. Sure enough, the [Jaeger] stops firing at him in fear of damaging it. Instead, the [Kampfer] closed in on him again. ¡°No escape.¡± ¡°Who said I was escaping?¡± Seconds before the tonfa strike hit the armor of [Ex-Caliburn], Kisei kicked off the road and jumped straight up. At the same time, he fired the anti-ship grenade launcher mounted on his back. The [Geist Kampfer] leaned back to avoid the missile. Missing its target, the missile exploded on the road below. ¡°Master!¡± ¡°I know!¡± It¡¯s clear that his attack was ineffective. Kisei continuously fires his mega blaster rifle toward the smoke screen. He could make out the trail of thruster flame in the smoke. The moment he realized that his shots were avoided, his enemy returned fire with its rapid-fire blaster cannon. ¡°Schleer!¡± While screaming out her name, Kisei fired his thruster and flew up. As he left the cover of the mass driver, the [Geist Jaeger] and [Artillerie] immediately locked on to him again. In addition, the [Kampfer] chased after him from below. It was a dire situation as he¡¯s now being targeted by 3 strikers simultaneously. In the back seat, Diaroze held her breath. However, a wide smile floats on Kisei¡¯s face. He then took a deep breath and shouted. ¡°Shoot me!¡± CH 282 Wicked Star Vs the New 4 Heavenly 3 ¡°Shoot me!¡± Without questioning Kisei¡¯s words, Schleer activated the anchor on one leg and made a sharp turn, pointing her shoulder-mounted blaster cannon at [Ex-Caliburn]. The IFF system was blaring an alarm as she was pointing her weapon at an ally but she ignored it and pulled the trigger. An arrow of light traveling at sunlight speed flies out at the same moment the high-pitched gunshot rang out. As it flew toward Kisei, he batted the beam away with his photon saber. The repulsive force of the beam repels each other and a heavy impact runs through the machine. Deviated from its intended target, the high-powered beam headed toward the [Geis Kampfer] which was about to strike the [Ex-Caliburn] from below. ¡°!?¡± Even the clone was surprised by such an unexpected attack. Unable to even take an evasive maneuver, the beam hit the [Kampfer] directly at its waist. The [Geist] series may boast its power and speed but its armor is not particularly different from those of other high-performance strikers. In an instant, the [Kampfer]¡¯s lower body exploded into pieces. A half-destroyed drum-shaped part rolled out from the upper of the [Kampfer] which slammed into the reinforced concrete road below. It was the phase-transition turbine¡­¡­a striker¡¯s main power source. Naturally, with such an important part destroyed, the [Kampfer] has already been completely incapacitated. ¡°It¡¯s down! Master, do it!¡± ¡°Of course!¡± Kisei nodded and started accelerating at full throttle. The troublesome close-combat specialist was already out of commission. Moreover, exploiting the moment when his enemies¡¯ formation collapsed would greatly bring the battle to his advantage. ¡°[Geist Kampfer] incapacitated. Pilot: Vier¡¯s status unknown. Adjusting battle strategy.¡± However, despite having their comrade shot down, the [Geist Jaeger]¡¯s movement remains calm. With cold precision, the muzzles of the organ cannons unleash a devastating barrage toward Kisei. ¡°What an unlovable bunch!¡± Diaroze muttered while clicking her tongue. The clones¡¯ emotions were suppressed so it would be difficult to agitate them. Even so, Kisei slips through the barrage with small turns. The stray bullets hit the mass driver, causing some dangerous discharge. Diaroze looked down at the rail below with some expectations that it might be enough to render the mass driver unusable but unfortunately, other than some scraped paint, there was no damage. ¡°No choice but to use that giant blaster cannon to destroy that thing huh¡­¡­¡± Aside from a well-placed concentrated fire, it appears that the giant cannon the [Geist Artillerie] is carrying would be needed to destroy the mass driver. Diaroze¡¯s gaze wandered in search of the [Artillerie], hoping that they could bait an attack from it. ¡°Master!¡± The moment she spotted the [Geist Artillerie], she saw crimson light gathering on the muzzle of its weapon. However, a moment before Diaroze¡¯s voice could reach his ear, Kisei was already yanking back his control stick. After a brief moment, a torrent of super-charged beams passed through the place where the [Ex-Caliburn] was. The scattered particles bubbled the pure white armor of the [Ex-Caliburn] with popping sounds ringing inside the cockpit. To add insult to injury, the line of fire was just slightly off the mass driver. It appears that their opponent¡¯s aim was extremely calculated. Considering the cold composure of the clone soldiers, baiting an attack from them doesn¡¯t seem to be a viable strategy. Truly some nasty opponents. ¡°There¡¯s no other way but to take them down one by one huh!¡± The moment Kisei shouted while avoiding the barrage from the enemy¡¯s organ cannons. Suddenly, the armored dome began to move with a heavy sound. Dust and dry ice pebbles rain down from above. ¡°Ugh! No good, the preparation process was already done huh!?¡± The reason why the armored dome is opening can only be one. The Empress is now ready to make her escape. Since the Empress¡¯s figure couldn¡¯t be spotted here, it was safe to assume that she will come in through one of the gates to get on the rail. It was the moment when Diaroze¡¯s gaze turned toward a gate. ¡°¡­¡­!? Oh no¡­¡­.¡± At the same time Kisei¡¯s voice rang out, a new striker appeared behind [Ex-Caliburn]. The striker was colored black&white with auxiliary arms. It appears like it had been concealing its presence using optical camouflage equipment. The new [Geist] series thrusts at the back of the [Ex-Caliburn]. Kisei managed to move away to avoid a direct hit but he was too late and the silver blade pierced the base of the [Ex-Caliburn]¡¯s right shoulder. The electrical wires inside were severe and hydraulic oil started spewing out like blood from the cracked armor plate. ¡°They got me one¡­¡­!¡± Kisei immediately kicked the chest of the new [Geist] and took some distance. Without looking back, he fired the anti-ship grenade launcher while performing a somersault. The new [Geist[] couldn¡¯t move due to the impact from the kick and couldn¡¯t avoid the missile. With a direct hit on its abdomen, it suffers the same fate as the [Kampfer] with its upper and lower body torn apart in two different directions. The damage from its surprise attack would at most the [Ex-Caliburn]¡¯s right arm useless while the new [Geist] was shot down so it¡¯s not a bad result. However, the opening it created can be fatal. ¡°Kisei! The Empress!¡± From the gate, a black-gold Zenith straddling a ride booster dashed out. Schleer tried to tell him but currently, there¡¯s no one that has enough leeway to intercept the Empress from getting to the injection chamber. Unobstructed, the Empress raced toward the mass driver on her ride booster. ¡°Kuhahahaha! The victory is mine!¡± The Empress¡¯s voice could be heard through the radio. Just like that, the black-gold Zenith was launched by the mass driver and flew away with ferocious force. The acceleration power the mass driver provided was enough for her to break through the atmosphere and no one here would be able to intercept her in time. ¡°UGGHHHHHH!! That woman, she got away!!¡± Diaroze raises her voice in anger while Kisei, Schleer, and Valentina can not even afford to do that as they have their hands full dealing with the clones. Diaroze was the only one who was hatefully glaring at the back of the Empress as she disappeared into the sky¡­¡­but, at that moment, a red beam suddenly flew from the surface and accurately hit the Empress¡¯s ride booster. ¡°UWAHHHH!¡± The ride booster immediately explode and the Empress¡¯s pathetic scream could be heard through the comm channel. ¡°Phew¡­¡­¡­..the last laugh is mine.¡± ¡°¡­¡­Liren!?¡± That¡¯s right, the ace sniper of the old 4 Heavenly, the [Heavenly Eye]¡­¡­.Liren Slaine. CH 283 The Fleeing Empress The Empress¡¯s ride booster was sniped out of the sky and exploded into pieces. The black-gold zenith took the full brunt of the blast but due to its heavy armor, the striker was undamaged. Although it was staggered, it started ascending again using its own thrusters. ¡°You got rusty, Liren!¡± Despite the destruction of the ride booster, the striker still has enough power to break through the atmosphere on its own. Coupled with the acceleration provided by the mass driver, it would be difficult to catch up with the Empress. ¡°I¡¯m just giving up the credit. Intentionally.¡± In response, Liren replied with a snort. The weather conditions and visibility are the worst but despite all that Liren wouldn¡¯t miss her mark. There was also how she missed her shot when she was piloting the [Valizer] so her pride as a sniper won¡¯t allow her to miss her target twice. ¡°Cavalry has arrived [DESU]!¡± Nora raised her voice. Since Liren is already on the scene, it¡¯s natural that the other 4 Heavenly would be there too. The [Zarava] swooped down from above the opened armored dome and fired her ¡°magnums at the [Geist Jaeger] which was aiming its organ cannons at Kisei. ¡°Enemy reinforcements detected. Adjusting interception strategy¡­¡­¡± ¡°Woah, I can¡¯t let Nora-chan take the spotlight alone now can I!¡± A barrage from a Gatling gun rained down on the [Artillerie] as it was about to provide covering fire for the [Jaeger]. In addition, the [Van Wolf] and the [Dainsleif] rushed at the [Fechter] at the same time. Even the clones seemed to be taken aback at the sudden assault and quickly retreated. ¡°My Lord, leave this place to us!¡± ¡°We should be able to handle these clones ourselves! Now is your chance to capture the Empress alive!¡± ¡°I see¡­¡­if Liren¡¯s shot killed the Empress then there won¡¯t be anyone to take responsibility for this war huh.¡± Schleer muttered out loud. The old 4 Heavenly¡¯s strikers were already tattered but their fighting spirit is still high. Moreover, with Saki, Calencia¡¯s top ace practically unharmed, they stand a good chance of winning in a 5v3. The new 4 Heavenly (Although technically that should be 5 with the addition of the fifth striker that was shot down earlier) are doing their best to deal with the new arrivals so they have no time to attack Kisei. If he wants to pursue the Empress then now is his chance. ¡°Let¡¯s leave this place to them and go after the Empress!¡± Schleer pointed to the mass driver and shouted. For a moment, Kisei hesitated. Schleer and Valentina aside, he thought he should stay here to handle their formidable enemies. However, with Schleer exhausted from the long battle and the Empress¡¯s strength still unknown, there is a good chance that the Empress might get away. Right now, capturing the Empress should take priority. ¡°¡­¡­¡­let¡¯s go!¡± ¡°I feel the same way. For better or worse, that¡¯s my mother after all¡­¡­.I wouldn¡¯t want to leave this to someone else.¡± Diaroze also seemed to have a lot in her mind. Kisei silently nodded and they flew toward the mass driver. When he got to the launch shuttle, mechanical arms extended from both sides of the rail and fixed the striker in place by grabbing its shoulders. Schleer and Valentina followed after him. ¡°Kisei and I will be enough. Please stay here and support Tersis-san¡¯s group.¡± Schleer tried to dissuade Valentina from following them. She and Valentina are currently allies but once they take care of the Empress, their cooperation would come to an end. In that case, their rivalry over Kisei would return. In the unlikely event that she tries to forcibly take Kisei or that she demands her to hand over Kisei in exchange for the Empress, would she be able to handle Valentina on her own? Schleer furrowed her brows as that question echoed in her mind. After all, with the battlefield in chaos, she could not expect support from her allies ¡°I can¡¯t do that. There are subordinates who chose to follow me. I need to show them that I can overcome the Empress with my own ability.¡± Valentina¡¯s reply made it clear that she could sense Schleer¡¯s inner turmoil. She also has some suspicions so she could not afford to let down her guard. ¡°After separating your force and forming an anti-Nored faction, the general joined hands with her enemy to take down the Empress. Seriously, that¡¯s some opera-worthy scenario huh? I know that you want to take credit for this but considering the relationship between the two armies, wouldn¡¯t it be more convenient if we make this a joint effort instead?¡± ¡°¡­¡­..¡± Hearing that, Schleer fell silent. ¡°I don¡¯t really care but¡­¡­if we don¡¯t quickly catch up, the Empress will get away you know?¡± Diaroze anxiously sweeps her eyes around. The clones are still being held back by Tersis and the others. However, as their strikers are already fixed on the launching platform, they can not take any evasive maneuvers. Even just a stray bullet can spell their end here. ¡°¡­¡­¡­.right, let¡¯s go.¡± In the end, Schleer consented. She then operates the mass driver¡¯s control system via the touch panel. ¡°Checking launch preparations, all green¡­¡­.condenser charged. Let¡¯s go!¡± When she touched the red button labeled [Launch], the shuttle was ejected like a bullet. The rail furiously accelerated it as they raced toward the sky. Strong G, incomparable to a striker catapult or warship attacked Kisei¡¯s body, and a quiet scream leaked from his mouth. When the shuttle reached the end of the rail, it opened and launched the three strikers to the sky. As he ignited the thrusters, Kisei pulled his control stick while clenching his teeth. ¡°We¡¯re going into the clouds¡­¡­.!¡± The altimeter steadily shows increasing value. The [Ex-Caliburn] burst into the dark cloud covering the sky of Galea-E. Lumps of dry ice and debris from the satellite impact were still swirling in the sky and small shards were hitting the armor, making dry sounds from the impact. Inside the clouds, the visibility was practically zero and they couldn¡¯t even see a meter in front of them. The dust storm also created electrical discharge and a massive bolt of lightning struck the [Ex-Caliburn] with a deafening roar. ¡°Hyahh!¡± Surprised, Diaroze let out a child-like scream while Kisei silently looked at the striker¡¯s status on the sub-monitor. The damage he sustained was the slashed right arm that was damaged by the clone¡¯s surprise attack. Other than that, there was no abnormality. ¡°As expected of the Chief Mechanic, the maintenance was superb¡­¡­!¡± Kisei grinned. Meanwhile, they passed through the cloud layer. Since the atmosphere of Galea-E is very thin, they¡¯ve already reached outer space. Thus began their pursuit of the Empress. CH 284 Pursuit Kisei and his group who had launched themselves using the mass driver broke through the thundercloud and entered the satellite orbit of Galea-E. As to be expected, the Empress¡¯s striker is nowhere to be found. She probably already left. Although they¡¯re in satellite orbit, since Galea-E¡¯s atmosphere is very this the altitude they are actually at is relatively low. The ground seemed so close that they almost felt that they could reach for it if they reached out their hand. For someone who¡¯s unfamiliar with space traveling, they would have been worried that they might just plummet to the ground. ¡°At this altitude, the effect of the storm is still too strong, I don¡¯t think we can rely on our radar here¡­¡­..¡± Schleer let out a small sigh as she looked at the radar screen on her sub-monitor. The radar screen was filled with radar noises and it was impossible for them to detect the Empress using it. ¡°Still, we don¡¯t have the time to climb the altitude to escape the storm¡¯s effect. If the Empress manages to get to where she can use sublight speed then it would be difficult to track her down with just the three of us.¡± You can only travel Faster Than Light speed at the outer edge of the star system but you can still travel at barely the speed of light once you are far enough away from high-mass objects. Ideally, they need to secure the Empress before she can reach that point. ¡°For the time being, let¡¯s predict where she¡¯s heading. With just the three of us, we can not split up and search randomly. Since our time is limited, it¡¯s probably best if we have some general idea in mind.¡± Kisei glared out into space and muttered. Galea system is located near the center of the galaxy so the stars dotting the sky surrounding it are much denser than the night sky of Terra. In other words, the Empress has many escape routes. If the Empress is allowed to escape out of the system then it would be impossible for them to capture her. ¡°At the moment we are flying at the polar orbit of Galea-E. If we follow this route then we should be able to track her to some extent but¡­¡­¡­.¡± Their original plan was to begin their pursuit from here. After all, even if the Empress is not in sight, they should be able to follow her to some extent since they¡¯re flying in the same orbit. ¡°Because Liren shot down her ride booster¡­¡­.no, thanks to her, the Empress¡¯s plan should be completed in disarray right now. It¡¯s very possible that she¡¯s not going to follow her planned route huh.¡± Diaroze pondered while stroking the control stick with her finger. Without a ride booster, it would be impossible for her to directly fly back to Nored¡¯s territory. She will need to find a new ride booster somewhere but¡­¡­.even if a ride booster is a striker¡¯s common auxiliary equipment, it doesn¡¯t mean that they are just left lying everywhere. ¡°She has two choices. Steal a ride booster from somewhere or get on board a vessel that¡¯s capable of FTL travel.¡± ¡°If she goes with the latter then it would be troublesome for us. We can¡¯t just inspect every suspicious vessel in this situation after all.¡± ¡°No, that¡¯s not necessarily true¡­¡­¡­.the surrounding systems are already aware that there¡¯s a battle going on here. There shouldn¡¯t be any civilian ships in this area. In that case, her only choice would be to board a Noredian ship. Still, ¡­¡­¡­..¡± ¡°The Noredian force that was left in space had already surrendered to us after all. Every unit that still intends to fight us has already descended to Galea-E too.¡± Diaroze nodded at Kisei¡¯s words. ¡°The Empress¡¯s subordinates had already turned against her. A lord who prematurely surrendered can not keep the trust of their subjects. Knowing how cautious she is, she wouldn¡¯t take that fact lightly.¡± Diaroze looked like she want to say something more but she only let out a sigh. ¡°Then she¡¯s only left with one option. And the only place she can be sure that she can procure a ride booster around here is¡­¡­¡­?¡± ¡°Is there really such a palace? As of now, there are no other ports or bases in the Galea system you know.¡± The only celestial body that had a military base in this system is Galea-E. Knowing that, Schleer knitted her brows and groaned. ¡°There are plenty right? A ship that deployed strikers should have a couple of ride boosters lying around after all.¡± ¡°¡­¡­.the sunken ship!?¡± ¡°Exactly!¡± Unlike in naval battles where your ship would sink to the bottom of the ocean when it sank, incapacitated spaceships would just be left abandoned in the same place it was shot. (Since they were fighting in satellite orbit, it would be more accurate to say that they are orbiting around the planet.) Scavenging supplies from those ships is not that difficult. ¡°I see. When our fleet battled the Angel fleet, quite a few ships had been sunk. It would be weird if her aim is to scavenge those huh.¡± Valentina clapped her hand. The surrendered Angel fleet was guided a distance away from the planet so that they couldn¡¯t intervene in the battle on the surface. As a result, there shouldn¡¯t be too many ships in the area. A perfect situation for the Empress to sneakily scavenge whatever she needs. ¡°Umu, that¡¯s how it is¡­¡­.that place is close to the equator. She went out of her way to make her exit at the polar orbit too. What a shame.¡± Diaroze shrugged. In order to transition from polar orbit to equatorial orbit, the Empress would need to make a 90 degrees correction after all. ¡°Anyway, this makes things simple. Let¡¯s get there at once.¡± Said Schleer while confirming the calculated course correction the computer came up with for their next destination. CH 285 Impromptu Space Reef The geostationary orbit where they can travel at sunlight speed aside, the low orbit which is very close to the planet itself forces the group to travel slowly using only their standard propulsion engine. As a result, it took a while for Kisei¡¯s group to arrive at their destination. ¡°Hmmm¡­¡­.this is¡­¡­..¡± Diaroze groaned as she looked around. Surrounding them are strikers¡¯ limps and armor plates that seem to have been blown apart from a warship. Furthermore, there is a large amount of small and large debris floating around such as a battleship that has been split into halves. The rescue operation for the pilots and crews has already been completed in this area and there were no rescue vessels in the area. There was not even an SOS signal of any kind. With only the wreckages around and no sign of life, the place felt like a desolate graveyard. Even Kisei, who¡¯s familiar with the battlefield couldn¡¯t help but feel a chill run down his spine. ¡°This place was so empty before the battle started.¡± ¡°Well, even if it looked like this, the actual damage done was already minimal. The Noredians ended up surrendering so quickly after all¡­¡­¡± In truth, the wreckage here belongs to the Noredian forces that refused to surrender. The Angel force that made up the majority of the Noredian noble army surrendered themselves before their army fell into disarray so they managed to avoid unnecessary damage. ¡°But the question still remains¡­¡­.where¡¯s the Empress? It¡¯s a shame that we couldn¡¯t catch her while she was transitioning the orbit. We can¡¯t even confirm that she¡¯s actually here too.¡± Valentina¡¯s worry is valid. In the end, they only came here trusting in Diaroze¡¯s prediction. It¡¯s not unlikely that she might be wrong too. ¡°It hasn¡¯t been long since the battle ended. The wreckage here still retains residual heat so our heat sensor wouldn¡¯t be of help. Moreover, with this much debris, our radar is probably useless too.¡± Valentina said in a sarcastic tone. ¡°We finally escaped the storm below but our situation hasn¡¯t changed at all huh? Seriously, what a pain isn¡¯t it?¡± ¡°Anyway, we have no other clue to go on. For the time being, let¡¯s search through this place.¡± Certainly, the environment made it difficult for them to perform the search and the situation wouldn¡¯t improve even if they keep complaining but here they have Kisei, a human radar, with them. It¡¯s probably better than nothing. ¡°Come to think of it, the Zenith that attacked us earlier was completely translucent isn¡¯t it¡­¡­do you think the Empress¡¯s striker also has that kind of camouflage installed? Also, do you think that the Empress still has that kind of escort hiding with her? Many strikers are equipped with active stealth devices to deceive radar, or mass and heat sensors but perfect optical camouflage is simply not cost-effective for conventional weapons so the tech is not that widespread. Its drawback is that even while the stealth system is completely activated, if the striker raises the engine to combat output, the heat from that would be detectable by a heat sensor. With a striker¡¯s size, you normally wouldn¡¯t have to be wary of invisible strikers but¡­¡­¡­ ¡°If we can not use our eyes then we will have no choice but to rely on Kisei¡¯s senses. Please keep that in mind.¡± ¡°Even I didn¡¯t notice the earlier guy after all¡­¡­..¡± The already faint presence of the clones coupled with the optical camouflage was a troublesome combo even for Kisei. Since it already happened once, there¡¯s no guarantee that it won¡¯t happen again. Kisei knitted his brows as his gaze wandered around. ¡°Since we just saw the 5th unit of the new 4 Heavenly, it wouldn¡¯t be strange if the 6th showed up now¡­¡­.well, don¡¯t worry too much about it. Even though their strikers were constructed with multiple productions in mind, those things are ultra-high-performance machines. Even a big empire like Nored can not produce that many of such a thing.¡± Well, it doesn¡¯t mean that we should let our guard down though¡­¡­¡­.Diaroze added and paused. She gazed down and searched her memory before raising her head again as though she remembered something. ¡°The Empress¡¯s striker¡­¡­.[La Grum] doesn¡¯t have optical camouflage. It¡¯s the Empress¡¯s personal striker after all. If she installed such a cowardly device to hide in battle then she would lose the respect of her subjects. She certainly is fond of that kind of equipment but¡­¡­..well, she still has her reputation to consider.¡± ¡°I see, that¡¯s great to hear.¡± Schleer caressed her modest chest in relief. After all, if she¡¯s completely hidden by the optical camouflage then it would be harder for them to find her. ¡°Very well. Shall we start with this area? If possible, I want us to split up and search but¡­¡­.¡± ¡°Considering the possibility that we might get ambushed, it would be better for us to avoid being alone huh. It will lower our efficiency but it¡¯s probably better if the three of us stick together.¡± The three nodded at Valentina¡¯s words and moved out. CH 286 Trap ¡°¡­¡­¡­.finally, some clues.¡± It wasn¡¯t until 10 minutes after they began their search that they found the trace of propellant from the Empress¡¯s striker. It might look like they have found their first clue relatively early but in the vacuum of space, this residue gas disperses to the extent that they turn unobservable very fast. For those who are actively looking for it, the tension made 10 minutes feel like an hour. ¡°Judging from the rate of dispersion, it probably wasn¡¯t too long ago that she passed through here.¡± Looking at the calculated data from the spectral sensor, Valentina stroked her chin. It was originally a device for checking the composition of the atmosphere but it can be used here as well. That said, they can not analyze it very thoroughly. They can not be sure whether it was from a striker or other small vessel. However, since the rescue team had already withdrawn from this sector, the fact that they found such newly emitted gas made it safe for them to assume that it came from the Empress. ¡°¡­¡­.for the time being, shall we follow the trail?¡± Even while they are talking, the residue gas would continue to disperse. They can not afford to waste time now. Since they finally detected some clue, they have to make full use of it. ¡°Let¡¯s proceed with caution. It¡¯s going well so far but that woman is most certainly not incompetent. If we show an opening, she might ambush us.¡± There is no way an incompetent woman would be able to outsmart her many sisters and reach the throne of Nored. The advantage they gained over her so far was due to how they exploited the Empress¡¯s overconfidence and lack of information. At this stage, expecting the Empress to be careless would be idiotic. On the contrary, if they grow complacent, it¡¯s very possible that the Empress might turn the table on them. ¡°Of course.¡± Schleer nodded and slightly increased her speed. The [Mistilteinn] accelerated forward leaving a trail of jet flame behind while Kisei followed after her. The group proceeded cautiously through the dark space. Traces of the propellant gas weaved through the debris such as the wreckage of a destroyer and a huge chunk of iron that seems to be a part of a battleship¡¯s main turret. It¡¯s a dangerous path that a single mistake would make them collide with these debris. ¡°This is¡­¡­¡­.isn¡¯t it look like she¡¯s purposefully using a dangerous route?¡± Kisei groaned while avoiding the floating debris of various sizes. There were small ones such as chairs and beds to very small ones like hair brushes and pens. The big ones aside, the small ones can not be avoided so they often collide with the armor plate making loud sounds on impact. They probably got blown out from the destroyed ships. A ship that still has a functioning engine would be able to deploy an air shield to maintain the atmosphere inside even in the case where there¡¯s a hole in its outer shell but when the engine stopped working, that function would be lost. ¡°She probably knew that we were chasing after her. Do you think she¡¯s trying to lose us?¡± ¡°True, if she wants to scavenge a ride booster then she would be looking for a ship that sustained light damage after all.¡± If her goal was to scavenge then she doesn¡¯t need to enter a place with so much debris like this. After all, she would be able to find what she¡¯s looking for much faster if she utilized her radar and heat sensor from a good vantage point. ¡°That is possible but¡­¡­.is that truly all? It¡¯s strange but I have a bad feeling about this¡­¡­¡± It was when Diaroze muttered that a thin wire caught the [Mistilteinn]¡¯s shoulder. At that moment, the wreckage of a destroyer that was drifting nearby exploded. Scattered pieces of armor plate rain down on them like shrapnels. ¡°Uwah!?¡± Even while she was screaming in surprise, Schleer was quick to react. She moves in front of the [Ex-Caliburn] that¡¯s flying behind and shields Kisei. Several armor pieces collided into the back of [Mistilteinn] and part of her thruster was damaged, leaking the propellant inside. ¡°Are you okay?¡± Kisei raised his voice in panic at the loud clashing sound. In space, these kinds of debris can travel even faster than a bullet. Even a striker won¡¯t come out unscathed with a direct hit. ¡°[Mistilteinn] is not that fragile you know!!¡± Kisei was relieved hearing Schleer¡¯s smug expression. However, there are explosions occurring all over the place, scattering large debris around them. At this rate, they might suffer some bad hits. ¡°Let¡¯s take cover over there!¡± Valentina pointed at a floating large armor plate that seemed to come from a battleship with an alarmed voice. It¡¯s big enough for all three of their strikers to hide behind. ¡°That¡¯s too convenient¡­¡­..!¡± If it¡¯s a battleship¡¯s armor plate then it won¡¯t budge even against the debris. A perfect cover for them. With Kisei in her arms, Schleer used her remaining thrusters to propel them toward the armor plate. Valentina follows behind them while watching their backs. ¡°O, Oi! Stop! If we get careless then¡­¡­.¡± In a clearly panicked tone, Diaroze raised her voice but it was already too late. The moment Kisei and the others went behind the armor plate, the bomb planted there exploded. The bomb itself was an improvised one made from a battleship¡¯s turret¡¯s round. Crimson flame burst and covered the whole area¡­¡­. CH 287 Even if it¡¯s cowardly Seeing the huge ball of fire flared up in the darkness of space, the Empress showed a satisfied smile. ¡°Seriously, they gave me such a hard time.¡± After exiting the atmosphere, the Empress activated her stealth device and spent most of her remaining fuel on a forced march to reach this area filled with dark impromptu space reefs before Kisei¡¯s group. Using the head start she earned using her precious fuel, she had set up traps all over the area. Naturally, she also had an option to quickly find a ride booster and get out of here but she knows that she won¡¯t have a future left if she gets captured mid-escape. It¡¯s easy to assume that the Calencians would send their most elite pursuers after her so, rather than letting them catch her while she was escaping, she decided to turn the table on them here and escape in peace. ¡°That was 46cm High explosive round at point blank. Even if they are piloting Zeniths, they shouldn¡¯t get away unscathed¡­¡­.¡± The traps were made using explosives and ammunition she scavenged from the wreckage. It was disgraceful but the traps she laid should be powerful enough to take down her opponents. Even a heavily armored machine should be rendered immobile with this. ¡°Still, it¡¯s better to confirm the result with my own eyes huh.¡± The Empress knew that she would be the most vulnerable the moment she thinks that she got them. Because of that, she made sure to load the mega blaster rifle in her hand before leaping out from the cover of a cruiser¡¯s wreckage. ¡°If it¡¯s from that direction then the one that got triggered must have been No.3 huh? In that case¡­¡­.¡± She had set up many traps besides the one that got triggered earlier. Knowing that, Empress makes her way through the debris while being careful not to get herself caught in her own traps. ¡°Muh!¡± However, when she was flying past a large chunk of iron, the lock-on warning sound suddenly resounded inside her cockpit. The Empress immediately pulled back the control stick and performed an evasive maneuver. And after a moment of delay, a thick streak of light hit the surface of the iron chunk. ¡°Tsk! Missed huh!¡± ¡°That voice, Diaroze!?¡± The voice she heard over the comm was a familiar one. No matter how cold-hearted the Empress is, there¡¯s no way that she would mistake the voice of her own daughter. ¡°Indeed!¡± A pure white striker¡­¡­.[Ex-Caliburn] jumped out from the shadow of the debris. The head and various other parts were completely different but from the shape of its chest armor, the Empress could tell at a glance that it was a modified version of the [Zentis]. Currently, [Ex-Caliburn] is being piloted by Diaroze. Kisei is resting his exhausted body in the front seat of the cockpit since he had fainted from the impact of the explosion. ¡°It¡¯s a little unexpected but I will have you die here! For the sake of Schleer and Valentina who died protecting us¡­¡­¡­!¡± ¡°I¡¯m still alive okay! A-L-I-V-E!¡± ¡°Stop spouting nonsense and fight her seriously!¡± Retorts came flying immediately after. It appears that both Schleer and Valentina are fine. However, they can not participate in the battle. When the trap was triggered, the two(+Diaroze in the cockpit) shielded Kisei. It was thanks to their effort that the [Ex-Caliburn] was almost unscathed. Their two strikers on the other hand suffered fatal damage and are mostly destroyed by the explosion. This is especially true for Schleer¡¯s [Mistilteinn] as it took the brunt of the explosion and is already beyond repair. With that being the case, Diaroze has no choice but to work hard and take down the Empress by herself. ¡°Hmph, so you¡¯re my only opponent huh? Then there¡¯s no problem. I will embed it into your brain that you are nothing more than a downgraded copy of me!¡± The Empress fearlessly smiled and pointed the muzzle of her mega blaster rifle at the [Ex-Caliburn]. She hasn¡¯t been on the battlefield for a long time but she had never missed her combat training which is mandatory for Vuld nobility. Because of that, she doesn¡¯t even entertain the idea that she would lose to Diaroze who¡¯s more specialized in commanding an army. ¡°Hmph, there¡¯s no way a weakling who relies on cowardly traps like you to win against me!¡± Dodging the rapid-firing beams with a low-powered thrust, Diaroze replied with provocation. However, the Empress¡¯s accuracy was much better than she had expected so cold sweat started forming on her cheeks. A momentary opening could spell her death. ¡°Hah, my subordinates are not here. There¡¯s no need to worry about reputation no matter what I do anyway!¡± Naturally, setting such booby traps to ambush her enemy is not something that her subordinates would look kindly upon. As a royal, being labeled as a coward would be fatal. However, she¡¯s freed from such restraints right now. ¡°What, so in other words, you are saying that you are no match for me without relying on those traps? ¡­¡­..Mother, it seems your age has finally gotten to you huh?¡± ¡°I don¡¯t want someone who just showed the entire army how she was so happy to be whipped by a man to tell me that!¡± The Empress yelled. Perhaps when it comes to throwing away their pride, Diaroze is much better than her. ¡°I will kill you here! You can regret ever rebelling against me after you die!¡± CH 288 Mother ¨C Daughter¡¯s Showdown 1 The Empress¡¯s personal striker [La Grum] is a terribly large machine. Despite the fact that strikers are usually around 12 meters tall, the [La Grum]¡¯s gigantic frame was over 15 meters. From Diaroze¡¯s perspective, fighting it with [Ex-Caliburn] was like fighting a towering giant. ¡°Tsk!¡± While daunting the shots from the Empress¡¯s mega blaster rifle, Diaroze returned fire. A high-powered beam cuts through the darkness of space but it only disappears into emptiness even without the [La Grum] taking an evasive maneuver. She missed by a lot that it was like wasn¡¯t even locked on her target before firing. ¡°That was a pretty clumsy shot huh? Seriously, it made me doubt if you truly came out from my womb!¡± ¡°Uggh¡­¡­..!¡± That was clearly a provocation but it was plenty effective against Diaroze. She almost yelled back in anger but she saw Kisei who has yet to regain consciousness lying limp in his seat. [Right now I¡¯m the only one who can protect him], thinking so the blood that rushed to her head began to cool down and she started slowing her breathing. ¡°¡­¡­¡­.There¡¯s no place for skill when you fire using the auto-targeting system in the first place! You are probably just using something to deceive the fire control radar right¡­¡­..! Tapping the console, Diaroze tweaked the shooting-related settings. To be specific, she switched from the radar-assisted system to the laser targeting system. With this, her overall accuracy will be slightly lowered but her aim should not be interfered with as easily as before. When she pulled the trigger, the beam flew right to the place she pointed it to and the [La Grum] had to avoid it while looking slightly flustered. ¡°As I thought! Employing such a dirty trick¡­¡­.aren¡¯t you no shame as an empress!?¡± ¡°I don¡¯t want to hear anything about shame from an embarrassment like you!!¡± Compared to showing that disgraceful footage to the whole army, this is nothing. The Empress almost said that out loud. ¡°A kettle calling a pot black huh?¡± ¡°Even rotten as you are, you are still my blood so please, have some restraints! I¡¯m dying from secondhand embarrassment over here!¡± ¡°What did you say¡­¡­!¡± The Empress reacted furiously to Schleer and Valentina¡¯s comments while Diaroze only showed a bitter smile on her face. Although they managed to damage the Empress¡¯s morale, Diaroze still has to defeat the Empress alone. Diaroze thought as she hid from a beam behind the debris. ¡°It would be best to avoid getting into melee range huh? That side would have the advantage on that after all¡­¡­¡­¡± The [La Grum] was not designed to be that big just to look imposing alone. Naturally, it also has the power output to match its gigantic frame. Moreover, Diaroze wasn¡¯t confident enough that she can overcome that power gap with her technique alone. Then what should I do?, the moment she started pondering her plans, Diaroze pulled out the spare magazine from the anti-ship grenade launcher mounted on the leg. It¡¯s a little too big to hold with one hand. She shoved it into a gap between debris. ¡°You won¡¯t get away from me!¡± Just then, the [La Grum] circled around and fired a beam at her. She immediately kicked off the debris and escaped from the line of fire. ¡°Are you only good at running away? Hmm?¡± The Empress sneered and provoked her. Such a cheap provocation, Diaroze grinned and retorted. ¡°If you don¡¯t want to have a shootout with me then shall we have a swordfight then!¡± With a shout, the Empress drew her sword. It¡¯s a one-handed sword but as though to compensate for the striker¡¯s large frame, the blade was as long as Schleer¡¯s Zweihander. The moment she finished unsheathing, the Empress immediately made the [La Grum] lunge at Diaroze with a thrust. The jet flame from the thrusters was so huge that one can see the ridiculous amount of thrust they are producing. With such a sudden acceleration, the sluggish impression of the giant striker disappeared. ¡°What swordfight¡­¡­..!¡± With a groan, Diaroze tried to stop the Empress with her mega blaster rifle but she skillfully evaded the beams without stopping her charge. Realizing that it¡¯s useless, Diaroze throws away the rifle and pulls out the photon saber with her left hand. With the earlier attack from the clone, the right arm was already immobile so she had no choice but to fight with one arm. ¡°NUUUUHH!!?¡± Diaroze managed to catch the Empress¡¯s downward swing with her photon saber. The beam blade bent and was broken by the repulsive force from the Empress¡¯s blade. Unable to maintain the blade, the cylindrical grip short-circuited and after a small explosion, the beam blade disappeared altogether. ¡°You¡¯ve got to be kidding me¡­¡­.!¡± The photon saber was the latest model from Kawashima Iron Work. It has enough performance to compete with the 4 Heavenly¡¯s equipment and royal family Zeniths. Seeing it destroyed in a single hit was unbelievable. While stabilizing the striker with the thrusters, Diaroze threw away the now useless grip and pulled out another photon saber. ¡°HaHaHaHa¡­¡­.! Shame on you!¡± The Empress charges at her again while laughing out loud. Seeing that, cold sweat began to drip down Diaroze¡¯s forehead¡­¡­.. CH 289 Mother ¨C Daughter Showdown 2 When one side can destroy your weapon with a single blow, there¡¯s no way you can fight equally in melee. Thinking so, Diaroze immediately reversed her striker and sped away at full speed. Despite the fact that she doesn¡¯t want to place an extra burden on Kisei¡¯s unconscious body, she needs to get away with all her might. ¡°KuHaHaHaHa! HaHaHahA! That¡¯s what I wanted to see!¡± On the other hand, the Empress who had been on the receiving end of insults and provocation enthusiastically chased after the [Ex-Caliburn] while laughing like a madman. Due to the [La Grum]¡¯s monstrous acceleration, the distance between the two that Diaroze went to great length to widen is steadily getting smaller and smaller. ¡°HIII¡­¡­.that¡¯s not even on the level of scary anymore right!¡± Even the [Ex-Caliburn] which is equipped with the [Zentis]¡¯s heavy armor won¡¯t be able to endure a direct hit from the Empress¡¯s blade. Rather than a sword, the thing felt more like a reaper scythe. With that image in mind, blood drained from Diaroze¡¯s face. ¡°Don¡¯t worry, I changed my mind, I won¡¯t kill you here! I won¡¯t be satisfied unless I bring you back alive and have you tortured and put to the guillotine in front of me!¡± The Empress swings her sword while shouting so. Even though she avoided the slash, Diaroze was shaken. Knowing the Empress, that was no threat. She¡¯s fully intending to torture her and execute her with a guillotine. It was quite a shock for Diaroze that her own mother is willing to go so far. Of course, she understands that it is not unwarranted because of her betrayal but there¡¯s still a conflict between her rational and emotional sides. She couldn¡¯t help but wonder why the Empress can¡¯t reel her usual sadism back a little bit here. ¡°The man in that video¡­¡­.that must be your lover right? I will catch and do him right in front of you. Look forward to the show!¡± ¡°I knew you would say that! You pervert¡­¡­.!¡± However, her own indignation was blown away by the Empress¡¯s following words. Instead, what sprang up inside her was the will to fight to protect her man. Realizing that, Diaroze smiles at herself wondering if this is her womanly instinct. In any case, right now she needs to defeat this woman somehow. That¡¯s impossible in a straightforward fight. After all, the difference in specs is too much for her skills to overcome. On top of that, Kisei who¡¯s physically weak is still lying unconscious with her in the cockpit so she can¡¯t perform unreasonable maneuvers that would affect his body. ¡°No easy way out huh¡­¡­but I have no intention of losing to anyone other than Master¡­¡­.!¡± She strongly gripped the control stick tightly while enduring the onslaught of attacks from the [La Grum]. Her technique is both sharp and fast and as to be expected, she doesn¡¯t even show a small opening like a big swing that can easily be exploited. When she avoided another horizontal swing, Diaroze fired her wire gun at nearby debris. The moment the anchor was in place, she reeled herself toward it to take a distance away from the [La Grum]. ¡°Seriously, this is annoying¡­¡­! It would be better if you just give up¡­¡­you have no advantage over me whatsoever you must have realized that already that you have no chance of winning from the start.¡± While shouting whatever she wants, the Empress continued to chase after the [Ex-Caliburn]. In the end, the difference in their speed was apparent and the Empress caught up in an instant. Again, Diaroze used the wire gun to evade the approaching giant sword. ¡°Take this, Take this!¡± [La Grum]¡¯s speed is certainly terrifying but since it¡¯s a large striker, its movement is linear so it can¡¯t accurately follow the tricky movements she performs using the wire gun. ¡°Tsk!¡± Realizing her sword won¡¯t be enough alone, the Empress immediately switched her tactics. She pressed the button on the control stick and fired a large amount of high-mobility missiles from the back-mounted missile container. ¡°You¡¯re using missiles in a place filled with debris like this!?¡± Seeing the Empress launch the missiles, Diaroze quickly turns her strikers and takes cover behind the debris. Nearly half the missiles got caught on the floating wreckage and exploded on the steel plate while smaller debris was blasted away by the explosions and began to spin erratically. The remaining missiles were then intercepted by the anti-missile laser turrets mounted on the shoulders of [Ex-Caliburn]. With every invisible low-powered laser fired, a small warhead got burned and exploded before impact. In a blink of an eye, the number of missiles was sharply cut down. ¡°The missiles were just distractions you know!¡± However, the Empress already predicted that result. Before Diaroze realized it, she circled around to the opposite side and charged at her with a mega-blaster rifle. It¡¯s a pincer attack. The missiles were mostly shot down by the laser turrets but as expected not all of them could be cleaned up. And while she¡¯s occupied with that, Diaroze would be too late to react to the Empress¡¯s charge. ¡°I thought you would do that¡­¡­!¡± However, Diaroze¡¯s face shows no sign of impatience. On the contrary, she pulled out the 8.5Mw blaster rifle from the back with a grin. CH 290 Mother-Daughter Showdown 3 The [La Grum] and the missiles are approaching her at the same time. If Diaroze doesn¡¯t deal with both then she will lose. However, she turned her back on the Empress and pointed her rifle at the missiles before switching on the laser turrets. She also changed the firing mode to semi-automatic and began shooting down the missiles. With the laser turrets and her rifle, all missiles were accurately shot down. Since these missiles were small in size and could only move monotonously, it was quite easy for her to intercept all of them. ¡°Kukuku, you panicked huh!¡± Still, the missiles were not Diaroze¡¯s only imminent threat. From behind her, the [La Grum] rushed at her like a bullet. Its charge was accompanied by several shots from its mega blaster rifle. Diaroze somehow avoids them with an evasive maneuver without turning around. The monitor showed a crimson beam flying past her. It was scary enough to be shot at from the front but being fired at from behind is just as terrifying. Despite the shiver running down her spine, Diaroze didn¡¯t flinch. ¡°There!¡± Still facing the other way, Diaroze sticks the rifle behind her and starts firing. Naturally, the muzzle was nowhere near the [La Grum]. After all, the only one who¡¯s capable of shooting without looking is Kisei. ¡°Fool!¡± The Empress sneered at that seemingly futile resistance but suddenly an explosion occurred from the direction of nearby debris. The beam Diaroze fired had hit the spare ammunition she tucked away earlier causing a big explosion. The explosive power of 4 anti-ship missiles was no joke. The metallic debris burst from the blast and the shrapnel attacked the [La Grum] at bullet-like speed. Yes, Diaroze had lured the Empress to this exact position. ¡°Muh!¡± [La Grum] was hit by a swarm of shrapnels from the side and got blown away. With each metallic shrapnel hitting its armor, a violent spark is sent flying. It was not enough to deal a fatal blow to it but the attack did manage to stop its movement for a moment. ¡°IT¡¯S OVER!¡± With the left hand firmly holding the rifle, Diaroze charged full speed at [La Grum] with the bayonet glinting in the faint light of Galea. ¡°WHAT!?¡± The [Ex-Caliburn] performed a bayonet charge at the [La Grum]. The Empress couldn¡¯t evade it as she just got blown away by the explosion. The sharp tip of the bayonet was shoved at the [La Grum]¡¯s abdomen. The violent impact shook both strikers and Kisei and Diaroze almost got blown off their seats. However, the bayonet itself couldn¡¯t withstand the charge and shattered into pieces without penetrating the [La Grum]¡¯s armor. The [Ex-Caliburn] slammed into the [La Grum] and the two strikers violently wrestled. ¡°Uwawawa!?¡± ¡°Damn you¡­¡­.that scared me!!¡± The Empress angrily shouted. [La Grum] is the bigger striker so the impact from the collision was less for her. She grabbed the [Ex-Caliburn] by the shoulders and yanked it away. ¡°WAAHHH!¡± The physical difference between the two was like an adult and a child. The [Ex-Caliburn] was thrown away like an oversized toy and the impact also made it drop its rifle. ¡°This is the end¡­¡­!¡± The Empress points her mega blaster rifle at [Ex-Caliburn]. Diaroze hurriedly tried to accelerate away but it was too late. The Empress¡¯s finger was already on the trigger. ¡°HIEE¡­..¡± Diaroze grasped but¡­¡­.even though she didn¡¯t do anything, the [Ex-Caliburn]¡¯s left hand suddenly unsheathed a photon saber from its chest mount. The beam blade sharply repels the high-powered beam. ¡°Ha!?¡± That unexpected movement froze the Empress for a moment. Since the beam was flying straight back at her, she had no time to avoid it. The bullet of light landed on [La Grum]¡¯s shoulder and blew away its armor plate. ¡°Gwahhhh.¡± The Empress groaned while trying to prevent her striker from spinning out of control. There, the [Ex-Caliburn] fired up its thrusters and rushed in for an attack. ¡°THIS IS THE END!!¡± The one who shouted that this time was Kisei. The impact from the earlier bayonet charge shook him awake. He landed a powerful roundhouse kick on the head of [La Grum]. Although the Empress¡¯s personal striker boasted its insane robustness, its neck was still relatively fragile. With a full-powered kick from a Zenith, the head was sent flying clean off. ¡°GAHHHH!!¡± The Empress roared in anger but it was too late. The saber¡¯s blade pierced into [La Grum]¡¯s belly where it got stabbed by the bayonet earlier. The half-penetrated armor couldn¡¯t withstand the second attack and the beam blade managed to pierce its engine. As though its earlier rampage was a lie, [La Grum] lost all of its power. However¡­¡­. ¡°Not yet! This is can not be the end for me!¡± The Empress shouted and pulled the lever under her seat with all her might. The back armor of [La Grum] was blown off by explosive bolts and something was ejected from within. It¡¯s an escape pod. ¡°What!?¡± Diaroze let out a bewildered voice. Because most strikers were designed to be compact in size, they usually do not come with such emergency escape devices. However, [La Grum] is no standard striker. There was enough room on it to house such a mechanism. The escape pod activated the engine on its back and accelerated away with ferocious momentum. It appears that she¡¯s trying to get away from this place. ¡°She doesn¡¯t know when to quit huh¡­¡­!¡± Kisei roared and immediately gave chase. CH 291 The Woman who doesn¡¯t know when to quit To chase after the Empress who¡¯s running away in her escape pod, Kisei accelerated the [Ex-Caliburn]. The pod is rather small for a spacecraft, it¡¯s even smaller than a passenger car. Despite its extremely short cruising range, it can make sharp turns at high speed so losing sight of it for even a moment can let the Empress safely get away from them. ¡°ARGH, can¡¯t she just give up already!¡± Diaroze spits out her indignation and turns her gaze to Kisei in the front seat. Her next words came out in a very worried tone. ¡°Is your body okay? Should we go to the medics instead of chasing her¡­¡­..¡± Up until now, they were in a situation where they couldn¡¯t escape so she was prioritizing the Empress. However, now that the Empress is escaping via an unarmed escape pod, they have leeway to withdraw. Since Kisei fainted earlier, Diaroze is very worried about his well-being. ¡°It¡¯s okay¡­¡­.my head is ringing a bit but we can¡¯t let the Empress getaway. Diaroze just went out of your way to corner her right?¡± ¡°Umuu¡­¡­.¡± Diaroze groaned with her mouth quivering. Kisei¡¯s voice didn¡¯t change much from usual but she can¡¯t even see his complexion from the back seat. It¡¯s certainly possible that he¡¯s just toughing it up. However, Kisei¡¯s argument is also valid. Since they managed to corner the Empress so far, it would be a waste not to capture her using this chance. In the end, Diaroze agreed to continue the pursuit. ¡°Kisei regained consciousness? Is he safe!?¡± Schleer¡¯s voice came through the comm. The [Mistilteinn] was damaged beyond repair so she had no way to confirm the situation herself. ¡°No problems over here. My bad, I made you worried¡­¡­.the Empress is on the run on an escape pod. I¡¯m chasing after her.¡± ¡°¡­¡­understood. But please don¡¯t push yourself! Your body is unlike ours and the Empress is certainly a tricky opponent. I wouldn¡¯t know what to do if something happen to you¡­¡­¡± ¡°I know.¡± Schleer fell silent for a moment at his simple reply. She wasn¡¯t convinced whether he truly understands why she was so worried but she has no choice but to stop herself for now. ¡°¡­¡­.[Mistilteinn] is completely wrecked but the [Colbrand] should be able to move after some emergency repairs. We will join you once we fix it up so please don¡¯t be reckless!¡± ¡°Yes. the repair won¡¯t take too long so please don¡¯t push yourself too much, My Love.¡± ¡°Yeah, yeah.¡± With both Schleer and Valentina repeating the same thing, Kisei can¡¯t help but let out a wry smile. However, even while they were talking, the Empress is speeding away in her escape pod. Because of its small size, it can sew through the gap between the debris that normal strikers can not pass through. ¡°Searching blindly for that thing in space would be difficult huh¡­¡­¡­¡± ¡°Given its size, that pod shouldn¡¯t have a phase-transition turbine installed so FTL or sunlight speed should be impossible. If she wants to escape this system, she will have to find another vessel.¡± With the control back to Kisei, Diaroze now has time to think. She folded her arms while her eyes keep track of the thruster flame from the escape pod in the distance. ¡°If she searches the storage decks of these wreckages then she should be able to find a couple strikers that are still intact. If she wants to get away then she has no other way.¡± ¡°Conversely, we can shoot that thing down and secure her before she gets on a new striker huh¡­¡­..¡± Kisei glanced at the remaining ammunition. The only firearm he has left available is the anti-ship grenade launcher. He has no way to recover the mega blaster rifle and the blaster rifle that got lost among the debris. The escape pod is rather small as a target but with Kisei¡¯s skill then even the grenade launcher with a slower projectile should be able to hit it but considering its destructive power, the Empress would definitely die in the blast. Of course, the situation is as it is. Considering the worst-case scenario, it might be necessary for him to give up his no-killing rule. With a grim look on his face, Kisei placed his finger on the trigger. ¡°¡­..no, wait, don¡¯t be so hasty. That woman has never engaged directly with Master before. She probably doesn¡¯t know about your sixth sense. If we let her think that she managed to get away and ambush her then we should be able to take her alive.¡± Diaroze gently taps Kisei¡¯s shoulder. He hesitated for a moment before letting go of the trigger. ¡°Just keep watch, she will try something soon. Even that woman wouldn¡¯t think that she would be able to escape using that escape pod forever¡­¡­.¡± Kisei silently nodded and followed the escape pod with his eyes. Using the debris as cover, the pod smoothly and quickly hid in the wreckage of a half-destroyed battleship. ¡°Follow her!¡± When he suddenly accelerates toward the Empress, the pod pops out from its cover and begins to fly away. ¡°¡­¡­..that¡¯s autopilot.¡± However, Kisei¡¯s eyes can not be deceived. After glancing at the escape pod which was speeding away in the distance, Kisei turned his gaze back to the battleship wreckage. ¡°Looks like she¡¯s over there.¡± ¡°As expected huh¡­¡­¡± It appears that the Empress used the pod as a decoy to earn time for her to procure a striker. The pod itself is covered in armor plate so you usually cannot tell if it¡¯s manned or not. The decoy should be plenty effective against normal pilots. ¡°Let¡¯s go! This time we¡¯re going to get her for sure!¡± With a nod, Kisei accelerated the [Ex-Caliburn] toward the wrecked battleship. CH 292 Secured! Abandoning the escape pod, the Empress escaped to the wreckage of a battleship. The ship is a Granterra-class battleship usually employed by the nobles. Its thick triple-barreled main turrets are silently aiming upward. They looked like they were ready to fire at any moment but there were a number of large holes on the ship¡¯s side. It probably got hit by multiple anti-ship missiles. ¡°If it¡¯s this class then¡­¡­.we should circle around to the stern.¡± Following Diaroze¡¯s guidance, the [Ex-Caliburn] was approaching the ship¡¯s stern. None of the turrets tracked its movement, it did not even twitch. No laser or radar. This wreckage of a ship had already lost all its function as a warship. ¡°We can access the storage deck from that gate. The other side is on foot so she would have to get here using a different route¡­¡­.still, since our destination is the same, it would be to our advantage to use the shortest route.¡± ¡°I see¡­..so the layout of battleships is mostly the same for most countries huh.¡± With a nod, Kisei cautiously approached the battleship. He got blown away by a booby trap earlier so he couldn¡¯t deny the possibility that the Empress might set something up here as well. The gate Diaroze guided him to was the gate to the ship¡¯s landing deck. Its armored shutter is shut tight and judging from the heat sensor it¡¯s impossible to open it normally since the power has been cut. ¡°Seems like we have to force our way in huh¡­¡­.¡± Kisei hesitated for a moment then pointed his grenade launcher at the gate. He flicked the trigger on the control stick and the missiles electromagnetically accelerated toward the gate. And not just one, he fired all his remaining missiles at it. The moment the first missile landed, a large explosion occurred. However, the shutter was heavily armored. A single shot only managed to distort its frame but it can not withstand multiple consecutive shots. The moment the 4th missile landed, the shutter turned into pieces of scrap metal. ¡°Let¡¯s go.¡± Throwing away the grenade launcher which had run out of bullets, Kisei advanced forward. There is still one spare magazine left but a grenade launcher is too difficult to handle in tight spaces so he opted for the photon saber instead. Cautiously, they entered the ship through the broken shutter. After passing through a short passageway, they arrived at the storage deck. The emergency lights installed evenly on the ceiling and the floor are illuminating the place with faint red glows. The visibility is a bit poor but it¡¯s still enough to see the inside of the deck. ¡°Striker¡­¡­..there!¡± Inside the mostly empty storage deck, a mostly intact [Jetta] was left at the deck¡¯s corner perhaps because it¡¯s a spare machine. ¡°Alright, let¡¯s get rid of that.¡± Kisei nodded and approached the [Jetta] with a photon saber in his left hand. However, before Kisei swung down the green beam blade at the [Jetta] the crimson striker¡¯s trinocular camera suddenly flashed and came to life. ¡°You fell for it!¡± The Empress who arrived at the storage deck a little earlier before them activated the [Jetta]. The crimson striker pulled out a photon saber from its back and attempted to swing it at the [Ex-Caliburn]. ¡°You¡¯re the one who fell for it!¡± However, with Kisei¡¯s ability to read presence, there¡¯s no way that he wouldn¡¯t notice such an ambush. He stepped to the side and kicked the [Jetta] in the back. ¡°Gwah!¡± Although damaged, the [Ex-Caliburn] is still a Zenith-type. Oots physical strength is incomparable to a mass-produced striker like a [Jetta]. The Empress let out a miserable scream as she was sent flying and slammed into the wall with tremendous force. After that, Kisei easily stabbed his photon saber at its abdomen from behind. ¡°Master!¡± However, they didn¡¯t expect the Empress who put up so much resistance so far to yield so easily. Kisei opened the cockpit hatch at the moment Diaroze yelled out. Diaroze kicked her seat and jumped out of the [Ex-Caliburn]. The artificial gravity inside the ship was already broken so there was no need to worry about the height. Right after, Kisei threw Diaroze¡¯s favorite electric whip at her. ¡°Thanks!¡± Without turning around, Diaroze deftly caught the whip. As she had expected, the Empress blew the cockpit hatch open with explosive bolts and tried to escape in a hurry. ¡°It¡¯s time for payback, mother!¡± ¡°ABABABABABA!!¡± With no hesitation, Diaroze brandished her whip at her mother. The Empress couldn¡¯t dodge that because she just leaped out of the [Jetta]. The whip hit her shoulder and a violent electric discharge assaulted the Empress¡¯s body¡­¡­. ¡°So Vulds do a have concept of payback too huh¡­¡­.¡± While watching that unfold from the cockpit of [Ex-Caliburn], Kisei quietly whispered to himself. CH 293 Betrayal 10 minutes later. The Empress was tied up and hung in midair. She struggled to get free at first but Diaroze promptly beat her up and she now looked so miserable that no one would believe that she was the ruler of a country. ¡°STOPPPP! FORGIVE ME! NOT THE GUILLOTINE!!¡± While curling up like a caterpillar, the half-crying Empress shouted. Looking at her, Kisei¡¯s gaze turned into a complicated one. ¡°You know¡­¡­..¡± ¡°What?¡± ¡°¡­¡­¡­.why did we have this kind of rope in the cockpit?¡± As Kisei said, the Empress was roped up with straw ropes. For some reason, it kind of gives the scene an obscene atmosphere. That said, this is Diaroze¡¯s handiwork so it is probably something she took from her hobby collection tucked inside her seat¡¯s storage compartment. ¡°¡­¡­I thought that I might get in the mood during mission.¡± ¡°¡­¡­.¡± Face palming, Kisei fell silent. With a slight blush, Diaroze also averts her eyes away. ¡°Don¡¯t mess with me! You tied me up and just started flirting in front of me!? Unforgivable!¡± Diaroze wordlessly struck the Empress¡¯s behind with her whip. She let out an exaggerated scream but the Empress would not back down because due to a punishment of this degree. ¡°That man is your lover right? Damn it¡­¡­..while I have to sleep alone every night, you¡¯re bringing your man to the battlefield!?¡± ¡°She still sleeps alone even with that many daughters huh¡­¡­..¡± ¡°Mother and Father have not been on good terms for the past ten years¡­¡­they are practically on the brink of divorce actually¡­¡­.¡± Diaroze tells Kisei in a small voice but the Empress¡¯s face turned bright red. ¡°Shut up Shut up Shut up! Argghhh¡­¡­you¡¯re going to execute me anyway right? At least give me a night with that man. I don¡¯t want to die feeling miserable like this!¡± ¡°Hey, stop embarrassing yourself! It¡¯s not that it will be effective but at least just beg for your life!¡± ¡°ABABBABAB!¡± Diaroze switched her whip to electrocute mode. As it was already coiled around the Empress¡¯s neck, her eyes rolled back and she fainted. ¡°Now then, all that left is to hand this woman to the main force¡­¡­.¡± With a deep sigh of relief, Diaroze turned her gaze to Kisei. Perhaps because of the long battle and the relief that they finally managed to capture the Empress, she clearly looked exhausted. ¡°Yeah, we can¡¯t fit 3 people inside [Ex-Caliburn]. Most of our force should have already landed on the surface too, let¡¯s have them send us a transport ship once the communication is restored.¡± While the Noredian force is routed, the Calencian main force is still intact. When the broken communication and poor visibility from the storm get back to normal, there¡¯s no reason for them to lose. Their only worry right now is Tersis¡¯s group who was left to deal with the clone soldiers. ¡°Right¡­¡­.Haa, so it¡¯s finally over huh.¡± After taking a deep breath, Kisei felt the exhaustion finally set in. They had been in combat for half a day straight and he had already hit his limit. ¡°¡­¡­fufufu.¡± However, Kisei and Diaroze had to brace themselves in a panic at the sudden laughter they heard. It was not the Empress¡¯s. After all, she¡¯s already unconscious. ¡°¡­¡­..ahh, how wonderful. With this, we can finally advance our story to the next chapter.¡± What followed was the peculiar footstep of magnet boots. The place is a vacuum so naturally, the sound was coming from the comm so they have no idea where it originated from. ¡°Valentina¡­¡­.!¡± Diaroze snarled. Beyond her line of sight was a tall woman illuminated by the dim red light. It¡¯s Valentina who has a pistol in her right hand. ¡°So it¡¯s you after all huh? Where¡¯s Schleer?¡± ¡°I left her behind. She has no use left after the emergency repair after all¡­¡­.ah, don¡¯t worry. I didn¡¯t hurt her. I don¡¯t want My Love to hate me after all.¡± Fluttering her hair with her left hand, Valentina directed a lustrous sideways glance at Kisei. He shut his mouth and took a step back. ¡°Your role is over now, Diaroze. Now, hand over the Empress and My Love.¡± ¡°I will ask just in case. What are you planning to do after you get Master and Mother¡±?¡± If her goal was to get the Empress and hand her over to the main force herself to obtain credit then there would be no need for her to demand Diaroze to hand over Kisei. It¡¯s clear that she has some sort of big plan in mind. ¡°Reorganize my force and return to Nored. I will use the Empress to gain control of the Empire¡¯s politics and military at the same time. Thanks to you capturing her alive, it looks like I will be able to smoothly install myself as the next Empress. I¡¯m grateful you know?¡± ¡°¡­¡­and, what about me?¡± ¡°Of course, you will become my husband. You will become the next Emperor of the great Nored Empire¡­¡­.this shouldn¡¯t be a bad deal for My Love, no?¡± With a grin, Valentina revealed her plan. CH 294 Left out ¡°Of course, you will become my husband. You will become the next Emperor of the great Nored Empire¡­¡­.this shouldn¡¯t be a bad deal for My Love, no?¡± Hearing Valentina¡¯s intention, Kisei took another step back with a bitter expression. Diaroze had long pointed out the possibility of her betrayal but it still gave him a shock when such a possibility turned into reality. ¡°I think I¡¯ve already said no though.¡± ¡°At that time I was simply a princess dead last in the succession line. But now it¡¯s different. If I use that woman over there I can surely become the next Empress of Nored.¡± Valentina turned her gaze back to Kise after she shifted it to the fainted Empress. Her gaze as she looked at the Empress was hard to believe that it was the kind of gaze a daughter would direct at her mother. He can feel something burning behind her eyes. ¡°My Love, join me! Together we can create our ideal country!¡± ¡°No.¡± Kisei¡¯s answer was straight and direct. Hearing that, Valentina looked like someone just dumped cold water on her head. ¡°Politics is not my thing. I will just drag you down you know.¡± ¡°That¡­..may be so, still¡­¡­¡± It is certain that he is not someone suited for the political world where deception and backstabbing are rampant. From the perspective of an experienced politician, Kisei would be nothing but a greenhorn. Valentina understands that very well. ¡°No, but¡­¡­.I¡¯m not asking you to play politics. With your strength and beauty, you would be more than suitable to become a general¡­¡­¡± Kisei may lack the ability as a commander but even without such a thing, the Vuld military can be led through charisma alone. Practical stuff can be left to the experts from the staff members. With that line of thinking, it¡¯s not impossible for him to lead an army. ¡°¡­¡­¡­.it¡¯s frustrating to deal with the likes of her, isn¡¯t it. Master, how about you just come out and say it.¡± Facing Valentina who was already drenched in a cold sweat, Diaroze said so with a terribly mean smile. ¡°Just say ¡®I¡¯m already married to other women so I can¡¯t be yours anymore¡¯¡­¡­!¡± ¡°What¡­¡­.¡± Valentina¡¯s shoulders jumped as though she was recoiled by the possibility that Diaroze¡¯s words could be true. However, before she could say anything more, Diaroze made her move. She walked up to Kisei, crouched down, and kissed him on the forehead. Kisei¡¯s face twitched for a moment. He doesn¡¯t mind the kiss but he has to wonder what provoking Valentina would gain them at the moment. However, Diaroze urged him to return a kiss with her gaze. Giving up, he silently placed his lips on her forehead as well. ¡°W, What is¡­¡­¡± As expected, Valentina¡¯s face immediately paled. However, Diaroze did not stop there. ¡°Do you know? Terrans usually confirm their love for each other by kissing their partner on the lips.¡± The moment she said that, she covered Kisei¡¯s lips with her own. She didn¡¯t put her tongue in because she doesn¡¯t want to let herself go at the moment but she was still being quite passionate. ¡°AWa, AwawawWA¡­¡­.¡± From red to blue, Valentina¡¯s complexion is alternating so fast between the two. It should be quite a traumatic sight for a pure maiden like her. Even so, her expression still contains strong emotions. After all, the person she loves is being tainted by her own older sister. It wouldn¡¯t be strange if she pounces at Diaroze right now. Seeing her sister¡¯s state, Diaroze let out a small smile. She parted her lips from Kisei¡¯s and wrapped her arms around his shoulders. ¡°And¡­¡­that¡¯s how it is. While you were off plotting stuff by your lonesome, things have already progressed to the point of no return.¡± ¡°Nn, Nngnft, NNN!!¡± Valentina stumbled back, her face twitching. Diaroze¡¯s kiss aside, the fact that Kisei returned her kiss has vanquished all uncertainties from her mind. ¡°Is, Is it true¡­..? My Love¡­¡­?¡± Even so, it was human nature to not accept such a thing right away. With a trembling voice and tears in her eyes, she voiced that question to Kisei. ¡°¡­..yeah.¡± ¡°How, Why, When!?¡± Valentina¡¯s shout was unusually loud for her normal disciplined self. After all, Diaroze had been their enemy until just a while ago, it¡¯s certainly strange for things to progress this far. ¡°EH!? That would be hard to say¡­¡­..¡± Their relationship began due to Diaroze¡¯s aggressive nightly visits. But to say it out loud would be to say that he¡¯s that gullible as a man. Even if it¡¯s the truth, Kisei is still reluctant to say it. ¡°Even though we were enemies, we shared a bond you know. It¡¯s not unnatural for people to have great respect for their nemesis after all.¡± ¡°What respect!!? You were so excited about losing, weren¡¯t you!? Don¡¯t try to chalk it up now!!¡± Since it was true, Diaroze turned slightly bashful while Kisei looked at her with an exasperated expression. ¡°W, Well, it¡¯s the truth. With her brain and willingness to do anything to win on top of her beauty, no man would be able to resist my charm¡­¡­..probably?¡± ¡°Uhe, Uhehe¡­¡­.you don¡¯t have to praise me that much you know!¡­¡­I mean, we are trying to show her up here so I don¡¯t really mind if you keep going though!¡± ¡°This woman¡­¡­just look at her face would make a 100-year love grow cold, what were you thinking, My Love!¡± ¡°Every man has their preferences right¡­¡­..¡± After mumbling such a half-baked excuse, Kisei leaned close to Diaroze¡¯s ear. The height difference was usually too great for him to do that but she¡¯s still hugging his shoulder so it works out. ¡°I can see you provoking her but what¡¯s the plan here?¡± Valentina is just listening right now but there¡¯s a good chance that she will attack them if they rile her up too much. In that case, repelling her would be difficult. Kisei¡¯s physically weak so he would be useless in hand-to-hand combat. Since Valentina has a good physique and a pistol in her hand, she has no reason to lose to them either. ¡°No problem.¡± However, Diaroze returned a confident smile. She then turned her gaze to Valentina. ¡°She¡¯s my younger sister you know? Blood is thicker than water¡­¡­do you understand now?¡± ¡°Don¡¯t tell me¡­¡­.Valentina is also a pervert¡­¡­?¡± ¡°Exactly.¡± What ¡®Exactly¡¯¡­¡­? Kisei retorted in his mind. CH 295 ¡®Disposition¡¯ ¡°¡­¡­ugh, I don¡¯t want to believe it but it seems to be true huh.¡± Valentina squeezed her voice out, her expression looked extremely frustrated. Since they are whispering to each other, it must have seemed like they are on good terms with her. ¡°Ah, one more thing¡­¡­..it¡¯s no use clinging to some stupid hope that Master¡¯s body is still untainted okay?¡± ¡°¡­¡­!?¡± Valentina¡¯s eyes balked while Kisei choked on his saliva. Diaroze just dropped a bomb. Not only that, but she also proceeds to lewdly stroke Kisei¡¯s body with an obscene smile on her face. Valentina audibly gulped. ¡°It¡¯s only natural, right? When a young woman and a man fall in love that should be a given.¡± ¡°Weren¡¯t they calling you a late bloomer¡­¡­.!¡± As expected, even Diaroze was affected by that remark and she considered retaliating with her whip for a moment but the fact still stands that Valentina has a gun. Carelessly putting up resistance here would be useless. She holds down her anger and continues taunting her younger sister with a relaxed expression. In a sense, this is her forte. ¡°Man, it was real wonderful you know. Playing with his pure and beautiful body I mean. Ahh, when his white skin blushed red and his tender limbs in my arms¡­¡­..¡± ¡°A, Ahhhh¡­¡­.¡± Valentina let out a strange moan as though she just imagined it happening right in front of her eyes. She was blushing and her body started to tremble. Her current attitude looks like that of Diaroze when she¡¯s waiting in anticipation for a punishment. As he has nothing to do but act as a prop for Diaroze, Kisei can¡¯t help but think that these two really are sisters. He has no choice but to let his mind roam free as he might get aroused by all Diaroze¡¯s caresses otherwise. ¡°Do you know? Terran men have stronger sexual desire than Vuld. Master is no exception. As cute as he is, he can turn into a beast you know. I really love it when he looks like he desires nothing but my body.¡± Diaroze¡¯s provocation was loud and clear. She normally spoke in a way that left herself open for verbal abuse but she¡¯s the type that can switch things around too. On the other hand, Kisei wanted to defend himself but he couldn¡¯t afford to interfere with Diaroze¡¯s plan. All he can do is stay silent. ¡°N, No¡­..it¡¯s a lie¡­¡­.My Love would never¡­¡­.¡± ¡°It¡¯s all true. If you think I¡¯m lying then I don¡¯t mind demonstrating our love in front of you though? How about it? Hmm?¡± Diaroze pulled Kisei close and performed an exaggerated gesture. Her fingers trace the zipper of her pilot suit. ¡°Hey¡­¡­.¡± As expected, Kisei objected that but Diaroze¡¯s lips forcibly blocked his before he could finish his protest. Seeing that, Valentina made a hoarse voice. ¡°S, Stop¡­¡­!¡± ¡°Stop? You want us to stop? Kuku.¡± At Valentina¡¯s flustered protest, Diaroze parted her lips from Kisei and shrugged. ¡°How about you look at your face in the mirror first? Is that the face of someone who truly wants me to stop!?¡± ¡°W, What!?¡± Diaroze¡¯s words must have been too unexpected for Valentina as she hurriedly pulled out a hand mirror from her waist pouch. The face reflected in the mirror was¡­¡­so loosened like a dog in heat. Her eyes are moist and her mouth is loose enough for her drool to spill. Valentina was so shocked that she almost fainted. If they have gravity right now, she would have collapsed to the floor. ¡°Why? How! Why¡­..why do I¡­¡­¡± Why do I look so excited? Valentina couldn¡¯t finish her sentence. After all, she noticed the wet sensation coming from below. She can no longer deceive herself. ¡°There¡¯s a saying on Terra, Like Mother Like Daughter. Apparently, a pervert¡¯s sister is also a pervert huh, Valentina.¡± ¡°Pervert!? Me¡­..!?¡± Valentina muttered with a dumbfounded look. She wanted to shout that it isn¡¯t true but her body wouldn¡¯t allow it. Diaroze grins and lets her tongue run along Kisei¡¯s neck. Hearing Kisei yelp made Valentina¡¯s body grow hotter. ¡°I think it¡¯s called NTR or something along that line. In short, you are the type that gets excited when you see a man you love being toyed with by another woman. Seriously, do you really think you have the right to lecture me now, hmm?¡± NTR. A bolt of lightning struck Valentina¡¯s mind when she heard that. Before her reason could deny it, her feelings have already accepted it as a fact. Certainly, she does feel bitterness as she looks at Kisei being embraced by Diaroze. However, at the same time, an overwhelmingly murky excitement continued to seep out no matter how much she tried to deny it. ¡°Put down your gun, Valentina. Or do you still think that someone who¡¯s actually enjoying her beloved man being embraced by another woman can be an empress?¡± Valentina couldn¡¯t help but freeze at Diaroze¡¯s words. CH 296 Sisters¡¯ Battle 1 ¡°Put down your gun, Valentina. Or do you still think that someone who¡¯s actually enjoying her beloved man being embraced by another woman can be an empress?¡± Hearing her sister¡¯s words, Valentina gritted her teeth. The fact that she was actually convinced for a moment greatly upset her. Should this fact become known to her subordinates and the commoners, it would not be strange if it would be used to justify treason. However, the position of an empress could not be given up so lightly. ¡°¡­¡­alright, let¡¯s do it like this then! I¡¯m marrying My Love! With that collar around your neck, Aneue would have to follow My Love to the Empire anyway¡­¡­..¡± It¡¯s been a long time since she last called Diaorze Aneue. Diaroze leaked a wry smile. That¡¯s quite shrewd for her sister, she thought. However, without noticing what her sister was thinking, Valentina continued. ¡°If anything we can marry him together. Even among the imperial family, there were many cases where sisters married the same man. No one will oppose such a thing¡­¡­¡­our interest should align with this.¡± In the first place, Valentina had no intention of killing Diaroze. The idea was simply to bring her back with Kisei and tame her. However, when she discovered the possibility of NTR play, her plan was out of the window. Since the disposition that she didn¡¯t even realize existed herself was exposed, she needed to give her sister something to keep her mouth sealed. On top of that, with her fetish fulfilled and Diaroze¡¯s cooperation, she would get two birds with one stone. ¡°Your attitude completely changed huh¡­..¡± Kisei¡¯s face twitched. Even though she was treating Diaroze like an enemy until just a moment ago, she¡¯s now trying to persuade Diaroze into an agreement. Their positions are completely reversed. On the other hand, Valentina was emotionally overwhelmed so badly that the fact that she has a gun which gives her an absolute advantage vanished from her mind. ¡°It¡¯s,¡­¡­it¡¯s not like that. We just captured Mother after all. I just don¡¯t want to fight my own family anymore.¡± ¡°If those words are true then you just realized your love for your sister at the worst time you know¡­¡­..¡± No matter how he looks at it, Valentina simply became amicable after she became aware of her fetish. Kisei looks at Valentina with clear disdain. She faltered back at his gaze but Diaroze was eyeing her with envy. ¡°A, Anyway! There¡¯s absolutely no point for us to argue! You will join me right, Aneue!?¡± ¡°No.¡± With a grin, Diaroze shook her head. ¡°Master¡¯s wedding ceremony is already scheduled after all. He has no time to visit Nored right now.¡± ¡°If it¡¯s a wedding ceremony then wouldn¡¯t it be more natural for us to hold it back home? We are both members of the Noredian Imperial family right.¡± ¡°No. The wedding is between Master and Schleer.¡± ¡°Eh¡­¡­Haaa!?¡± Valentina was surprised since the name she didn¡¯t expect came up in the conversation but she soon realized what her sister¡¯s words meant. She shuddered and glared at Diaroze in disbelief. ¡°You didn¡¯t¡­¡­.¡± ¡°I did just that.¡± Diaroze¡¯s reply was short but her tone was filled with ridicule. ¡°When you weren¡¯t looking, my Master has already gone all the way with that woman¡­¡­..to tell you the truth, she and I went to his room at the same time you know. In a sense, she¡¯s even more similar to me than you are, dear sister! KuFufufufufu!!¡± ¡°It¡¯s, It¡¯s a lie¡­¡­.that whiny crybaby, did it¡­¡­¡­? It¡¯s impossible!!¡± Tell me it¡¯s a lie, Valentina turns an imploring gaze to Kisei. He seemed terribly bashful and hesitated for a while but then, he nodded. ¡°AHHHHHHH!!¡± Valentina¡¯s body shook as though an electric current ran through her spinal cord. Her white skin was blushing so much that it looked like her body could let out steam. And her expression was loosened. ¡°Hey, isn¡¯t she even a bigger pervert than me?¡± ¡°I don¡¯t think you two are that different though¡­¡­¡­¡± Valentina didn¡¯t seem to hear what they were saying so Diaroze cleared her throat to bring Valentina¡¯s focus back to the conversation. ¡°How was it? The feeling when someone you considered inferior took your man away from you!? In a sense, it might have felt even better than when I told you about me right? Hmm, my perverted little sister!¡± ¡°U, Uuuuu¡­¡­¡± Valentina¡¯s groaning sound has a strange mix of regret and pleasure. [How dare she take my beloved person away!] The fact that she couldn¡¯t even say that out loud already made it clear that it was too late for her. ¡°¡­¡­..but I have more good news for a loser like you, Valentina. It¡¯s not just that woman and I who will be marrying Master you know?¡± ¡°Eh!?¡± ¡°Tersis, Eleanor, Nora,¡­¡­even Schleer¡¯s older sister and Saki¡­.yes, that¡¯s samurai too.¡± ¡°Eh, Eh, Eh¡­¡­¡­¡± ¡°To put it briefly, yes, it¡¯s everyone. Kukukuku, It¡¯s exciting, isn¡¯t it!? Who do you want to see Master with next? How about Nora and Saki together? You, a real princess robbed of her man by two former commoners. The humiliation will surely be as sweet as honey, you know!¡± ¡°Wha, Wha!!¡± Valentina held her head while making strange noises as though her brain was being literally destroyed. CH 297 Sisters¡¯ Battle 2 After being told the truth, Valentina remained silent for a while. It was as though her brain had short-circuited. If it was Schleer alone then she can make peace with it but she was even beaten but those who she thought had no chance from the beginning so the shock was overwhelming. ¡°¡­¡­did I overdo it?¡± Diaroze muttered while gazing at her sister whose complexion had become as pale as ash. There¡¯s nothing she can do since it¡¯s a fact but she thought that there might be better ways to convey it. She does feel guilty but when she saw a satisfied expression like that of a knight who had fulfilled her duty on Valentina¡¯s face, she can¡¯t help but think that her sister is really an irredeemable pervert. ¡°¡­¡­Hah!¡± Valentina got a hold of herself when Diaroze crept close to take away her weapon and she immediately pulled away. ¡°Oops, that was close¡­¡­..I really can¡¯t let my guard down around you, Aneue.¡± Wiping the drool from her lips, Valentina pointed her gun at them again. Diaroze bitterly clicked her tongue at her wasted chance. ¡°It¡¯s true that what you are trying to offer is attractive, Aneue. Even so, I would be destroying myself if I accept it. I won¡¯t let temporary pleasure distract me from the big picture.¡± ¡°So it was attractive to you¡­¡­..¡± Kisei recoiled. ¡°It¡¯s, it¡¯s your fault, My Love! With your charm you could seduce anyone¡­¡­rather, you should be taking responsibility for awakening something like this within me right?¡± ¡°That¡¯s a bit of a stretch don¡¯t you think¡­¡­..¡± ¡°¡­.¡­.¡± Aware of that herself, Valentina averted her eyes for a moment. ¡°The nightly activities I can handle myself. Of course, I won¡¯t let some lowborn embrace My Love, rest assured.¡± ¡°You make sense but it¡¯s not reassuring at all!¡± Obviously. Diaroze nodded at Kisei¡¯s words. ¡°So what are you going to do?¡± ¡°It¡¯s obvious. I will neither give up on the throne nor My Love. Even if I have to be forceful¡­¡­it might be because of those thieving cats that My Love still doesn¡¯t choose me but you will surely come to understand me, My Love.¡± ¡°Uwah.¡± In other words, she¡¯s saying [I¡¯m taking you by force]. Realizing that, Kisei¡¯s face twitched. ¡°Aneue too, if you choose to resist then I will take you down here. If you do not wish to spend your time rotten away by yourself except for when I let you have My Love then I suggest you lay down your weapon.¡± ¡°So you still want the NTR play? You really are greedy, you know¡­¡­.¡± ¡°I¡¯m surprised myself but it seems that I¡¯m actually quite greedy. Well, that¡¯s my mother after all. It can¡¯t be helped.¡± Valentina glanced at the fainted Empress and shifted her eyes back to Diaroze. ¡°Now, this is your last chance. Will you join me or rot away in jail? Choose whatever you want.¡± ¡°¡­¡­Hmph, no way around it huh.¡± With a light smile, Diaroze dropped the electric whip she was holding. She then turned her back on Kisei and walked over to Valentina with her hands raised up. ¡°Don¡¯t think less of me. I don¡¯t want to get thrown in jail after all.¡± ¡°A wise decision.¡± Valentina grinned. However, at that moment, Diaroze smiled back and kicked off the floor with all her might. ¡°You think I will give up that easily you idiot!?¡± ¡°UWAHH!!¡± Valentina was blown away by the powerful tackle. The place has no gravity so once their magnetic shoes leave the floor, they won¡¯t stop until they collide with something. ¡°Guah!¡± Valentina screams as she slammed into the wall. The pistol fell out of her hand. ¡°Even like this, I¡¯m still a woman! I won¡¯t simply sell out the man I love!¡± Valentina is mostly better in terms of physique. Diaroze¡¯s chance of winning came from the element of surprise alone. Knowing that, she clenched her fists and continued her assault on Valentina. ¡°Kuh!¡± However, Valentina is not an opponent that can be easily beaten like that. Pressing the soles of her shoes against the wall, she countered Diaroze with a punch of her own. ¡°Ugh!?¡± Diaroze, who received a punch to the face, spun around in the air with her nose bleeding and the back of her head slammed on the floor. ¡°Ouch¡­¡­!¡± Tears float to the corners of her eyes but she can¡¯t afford to focus on the pain right now. She dodged out of the way to avoid Valentina¡¯s follow-up kick and got up with a backflip. ¡°Ughh, my beautiful face¡­¡­..¡± Diaroze groaned while wiping the blood from her nose. On the other hand, Valentina arrogantly looked down on her. ¡°You enjoy pain right, Aneue? Shouldn¡¯t you be more grateful to have such a good sister like me?¡± ¡°Hmph, I won¡¯t feel a thing when it¡¯s you!¡± Diaroze shouted back with a fierce smile. After all, the only pain she enjoys receiving is from the man she loves. CH 298 Sisters¡¯ Battle 3 While checking the condition of her magnet boots, Diaroze raised her fists up. Her surprise attack failed. She managed to get a tackle in but Valentina is taking a fighting pose with a calm expression as though she did not receive any damage at all. Diaroze is quite tall herself but Valentina is even taller than her. There¡¯s also the weight difference. Without weapons, this would create a big disadvantage for her. She started thinking of a way to come out on top of this fight but even with her clear mind, she couldn¡¯t come up with a good way to beat her little sister. Still, with Kisei behind her, yielding is not an option. ¡°What¡¯s wrong, Aneue? Are you really all talk?¡± Perhaps convinced of her victory, Valentina mockingly provoked Diaroze. ¡°Being robbed feels good but robbing might not be that bad either. And I¡¯m in the mood of trying that out right now.¡± Valentina glanced at Kisei with lustful eyes. His mouth was shut tight and he took a step back. It¡¯s pathetic but it¡¯s true that he can do nothing to support Diaroze with his physique. The least he can do is to not burden her. ¡°A blatant provocation huh.¡± Even with her nose bleeding, Diaroze gave Valentina a contemptuous grin. If she just angrily charges in then she will easily be beaten back. That¡¯s why she decided to take a careful approach. ¡°Are you so afraid of your big sister that you have to resort to cheap provocation? You are bigger than me but you are howling like a sore loser you know. I guess Mother was correct when she placed you dead last in the line of succession.¡± ¡°What¡­¡­!¡± In an instant, Valentina¡¯s calm expression vanished. She has prided herself as a warrior and a commander. Even so, she still has a complex about the fact that she was left out of the succession war. She had been acting like it didn¡¯t interest her but now that she has the chance to take the throne, she¡¯s clinging to it. Diaroze evaluated her as much. ¡°Since you are trying to take Master with you with such an underhanded means, you must have some awareness of it yourself, right? If you truly are suitable for the throne, let alone Master and I, you should have been able to persuade the generals to your side with your words alone.¡± Diarzoe grinned. In reality, her nose hurt like hell but she can not allow Valentina to see her weakness right now. ¡°You can¡¯t even prepare a legitimate justification to take the throne and you lack the charisma to convince those around you that you are worthy of it. You are well aware of your shortcomings, that¡¯s why you chose to do it this way, no?¡± ¡°D, Don¡¯t talk nonsense¡­¡­..! And stop with your insults¡­¡­.! Gritting her teeth, Valentina growled. She looks genuinely furious. She has a beautiful face and a good physique so when her expression turned wrathful, the pressure she¡¯s emanating is nothing to scoff at. ¡°Oh, sorry, sorry. I must have hit the bull¡¯s eye huh? True, it¡¯s not ladylike to add salt to injury even by stating the facts. Forgive me, little sister.¡± ¡°You¡¯re wrong, I¡¯m¡­¡­!¡± ¡°Wrong? You are angry now because I said something that you are already self-aware of right. If I was just talking nonsense then you would have laughed it off¡­¡­¡­¡± ¡°E, E, Even if it¡¯s from my own older sister, there are things that you are allowed and not allowed to say! If you continue insulting me any more than this then don¡¯t say that I didn¡¯t warn you okay!¡± ¡°See, Master? She knew she couldn¡¯t win with her words so she¡¯s resorting to violence. Don¡¯t you understand that you are just admitting to everyone here that you are that kind of woman? KuHahahaha¡­¡­!¡± Seeing Diaroze laughing at her, Valentina¡¯s reddish complexion turned even darker. Her fists are clenched tight and her legs are trembling. ¡°You will regret this¡­¡­.!¡± Certainly, Valentina didn¡¯t think that she would be able to win against her sister with her words alone. That¡¯s why she has no other option but to choose violence. She kicked off the floor and leaped at Diaroze. ¡°Hmph¡­¡­..¡± Diaroze coldly looked at Valentina who was rapidly rushing at her. Her provocation tactic worked out. However, that alone won¡¯t be enough. ¡°UOOOOOH!!¡± Diaroze managed to dodge the fist Valentina threw at her. At the same time, she slipped close to her and grabbed the collar of her pilot suit. ¡°HAH!¡± Even with the weight difference, the zero gravity enabled her to easily throw Valentina whose magnetic boots are no longer attached to the floor. Moreover, with blood rushing to Valentina¡¯s head, she couldn¡¯t even put up a proper resistance. With the momentum of her lunge, she was slammed to the wall. ¡°UWahh!¡± The back of her head hit the wall and she was out cold for a moment. Diaroze did not miss that chance. She planted her magnetic boots on the floor and threw a fist at Valentina with all her might. ¡°Guh!¡± Diaroze is over 180cm tall with a well-built physique. Her full-power punch dug into Valentina¡¯s stomach. Moreover, with her back against the wall, the impact had nowhere to escape so even Valentina felt that punch. ¡°This is the end!¡± Diaroze tries to land a second punch but Valentina manages to kick the wall and pounce on her. Diaroze, who was in the punching motion, couldn¡¯t avoid that blow. ¡°Ugh¡­¡­!?¡± Just like that, Valentina coiled her body around her sister¡¯s and wrapped her arm around her neck while holding down her wrists. This judo-style submission technique restricted Diaroze¡¯s joints and choked her at the same time. In zero gravity, such techniques that require the user to be on the floor can be used even while she¡¯s standing. ¡°Guh!?¡± Diaroze, who had no martial arts training had no means to escape from this hold. She¡¯s resisting but since her artery was constricted, she wouldn¡¯t last long. Soon, she passed out from the lack of oxygen. ¡°¡­¡­..!¡± After making sure that her sister is completely out of commission, Valentina released her arms. But she can¡¯t perform any sudden moves now due to the damage she received. While holding her stomach and mouth, she clenched her teeth. She¡¯s feeling nauseous. However, if she vomited now, the vomit would be stuck in her mouth and nose and she could choke to death so she has no choice but to suppress the urge. ¡°Ugh¡­..!¡± Kisei wondered if he should take this chance to run but he can¡¯t afford to abandon Diaroze after she protected him. After all, with her earlier provocation, it wouldn¡¯t be strange if Valentina decided to kill her if he left her alone. ¡°Uggh¡­..kugh¡­¡­.Haa.¡± While he was pondering his options, Valentina let go of her mouth and exhaled shallowly. Apparently, her nausea had subsided. And with a forced smile on her pale face, she turned to Kisei. ¡°¡­..that¡¯s how it is, you can¡¯t escape me now¡­¡­.!¡± Kisei stiffened at those words. CH 299 The Hero always come late ¡°¡­¡­I¡¯ve already come this far, don¡¯t think that you can run away from me now¡­¡­!¡± Valentina stares at Kisei with madness in her eyes. After being repeatedly verbally abused so many times, she must have a lot on her mind right now. ¡°W, We can talk this out.¡± Physically, he has no chance of winning. Even if he tries to run, his opponent is literally a beast in human form. There¡¯s no doubt that he will be caught in 30 seconds at best. If so then there¡¯s no other way out for him but to try and persuade her. ¡°Sorry, My Love. Even if it¡¯s you, I don¡¯t think that you can get through to the current me¡­¡­!¡± ¡°I thought as much!!¡± Kisei cried out, his face twitching. She just got completely wrecked by Diaroze¡¯s verbal abuse. She probably doesn¡¯t want to hear anything but comforting words at the moment. ¡°I¡¯m very frustrated right now¡­¡­hey, My Love. Please don¡¯t resist. This is for your sake as well¡­¡­.¡± With her face pale, Valentina slowly crept up toward Kisei. Like a beast cornering its prey. Inside his head, feelings of helplessness began to overwhelm him. Little by little, the distance between them narrowed. Kisei has no way to escape. After all, he knows that no matter what he tries, Valentina will immediately pounce at him. ¡°Good boy¡­¡­¡± ¡°HIE.¡± At the moment Valentina¡¯s hand touched his shoulder. ¡°SEIYAHHHHH!!¡± With a loud cry, someone swooped down from the ceiling. It¡¯s Schleer! She activated the thruster on her jetpack and performed a flying kick on Valentina. ¡°GUH!!¡± She was completely taken by surprise. Valentina couldn¡¯t avoid it because she was caught off guard and got blown away. Seeing Valentina crash into the wall, Schleer did not get careless and landed herself in front of Kisei. ¡°Kisei! Are you okay? I¡¯m sorry I¡¯m late!¡± Schleer asked in a sharp voice without taking her eyes off Valentina. Kisei held his breath and gave her a reply. ¡°¡­..I, I¡¯m fine. But Diaroze is¡­.¡± ¡°You can just spit on that kind of injury! Don¡¯t worry about her!¡± Although Diaroze is lying down unconscious while bleeding from her nose, Schleer¡¯s words were harsh. However, although Kisei couldn¡¯t see it, a sign of respect can be seen on her face. ¡°That said, since she put Diaroze through that kind of pain, it seems I will have to exercise an appropriate punishment on that woman.¡± ¡°Saying so, Schleer pulls out an old-fashioned revolver from her holster. She pressed her thumb on the hammer and gently pointed it at Valentina. ¡°Ugh¡­..¡± While watching Schleer, Valentina stumbled to her feet. As expected, she¡¯s already nearing her limits. Her legs were wobbling. If gravity still worked here, she might not have been able to stand. ¡°D, Damn it¡­¡­¡± She reflexively put her hand on her holster but of course, there was nothing in it. With a hateful look, she glared at Schleer. ¡°You got this far with that jetpack alone¡­..!?¡± A jetpack can be packed inside a rucksack so it¡¯s standard equipment inside a striker cockpit. However, since it only has a small capacity for propellant, it¡¯s only reserved for emergency uses. This wrecked battleship is quite far away from the place where their strikers were damaged. Normally, the propellant would have run out long before she got here. ¡°I asked [Mistilteinn] to serve me one last time. Even if she¡¯s a wreck now, she can still at least fire her thruster in one direction after all.¡± ¡°Damn it¡­¡­.I should have killed you!¡± Valentina spat that out with a terribly frustrated expression. ¡°You thieving dog¡­¡­you¡¯re playing a hero now!?¡± ¡°My, I see, so the fun was already spoiled huh.¡± Schleer shrugged without showing a shred of remorse. ¡°It¡¯s your fault for taking your time. We didn¡¯t have a ladies¡¯ pact binding us to anything so I¡¯d appreciate it if you don¡¯t blame me for your own shortcomings.¡± ¡°Y, You¡­..!¡± Valentina tries to curse at her but she knows that it¡¯s her fault so she shut her mouth and didn¡¯t say anything more. ¡°Now then, what do you want to do? Fight me? Or do you want to give up?¡± Schleer asked with a serious look on her face while still pointing her gun at Valentina. She doesn¡¯t want to actually shoot, of course. After all, even with all their differences, they have fought side by side. ¡°To be honest, I couldn¡¯t care less about your ambitions. If you give me your word that you will not invade Calencia then you can go take your throne or whatever you want.¡± Schleer¡¯s words were cold. Valentina¡¯s face stiffened as she stared alternately between Schleer and Kisei. ¡°¡­¡­but, I do respect you as a rival. If Kisei-san gives his consent, you are welcome to join us. Now, what do you want to do?¡± ¡°¡­¡­¡­¡± Surprised, Valentina¡¯s eyes opened wide. ¡°¡­¡­.even after I came this far? I have to give it all up?¡± ¡°¡­¡­.yes.¡± Kisei thought for a while and quietly gave a silent nod. He thought that it was the only way for this to end in an amicable way. He doesn¡¯t hate her and he doesn¡¯t want her to die. Even if she just went berserk on him, she can still turn back. If possible, Kisei also wants to make up with Valentina. Although she¡¯s usually cold toward Diaroze, she actually cares a lot for her sister. It¡¯s too sad if they can not reconcile with a fight like this. ¡°The throne or Kisei. Choose whichever you like.¡± ¡°¡­¡­¡­¡± Valentina had been silent for a while but tears slowly appeared in the corners of her eyes. It continued to pour out and she eventually started crying for real. ¡°¡­¡­I thought¡­..If I become an Empress¡­..if I become someone important, nobody would make fun of me anymore¡­¡­.¡± As her tears flowed, she began to monologue. She glanced at her unconscious sister, the woman who became their ally although she used to be their nemesis. In the end, Valentina decided to follow her older sister¡¯s example. She gently puts her knees on the floor and lowers her head, prostrating in front of them. ¡°I¡­¡­was wrong. Please forgive me¡­¡­¡± With a grin, Schleer turned to Kisei. ¡°Alright, I forgive you.¡± With those words, the war between Nored and Calencia came to an end. CH 300 The Final Chapter: There and Back Again With the Empress in their custody, there was no longer any resistance from the Nored forces. Similarly, since Valentina had surrendered, none of the soldiers from her faction were willing to fight the Calencian army. It was a complete victory for Calencia. The news of the Empress¡¯s defeat spread back to Nored in no time and the Imperial court turned into a quagmire of power struggle to name a new empress. Peace negotiations ran into difficulties because of that but Nored no longer had the strength to carry out another invasion. After all, they have to reserve their forces in case of civil war and internal conflicts in the future. Taking advantage of this, Diaroze participated in the peace negotiations as a representative of Calencia. Using her sharp mind, she crushed every diplomat Nored sent who kept stalling the process. ¡°Have you no shame?¡± Despite being the next in line for the Nored throne, she defected to Calencia and is even carrying out the peace negotiation on their behalf but she herself was as cool as cucumber. The war finally ended, she just wanted to be released from all these works and spend her days with the man she loved. Due to her effort on the desk work, Calencia managed to win a large amount of war reparation with a non-aggression pact in place for the next 50 years plus some territory belonging to Nored. The people were already tired of war so they welcomed this result. The Calencian capital was wrapped in a celebratory mood with victory parades and parties held days and nights. Moreover, with Kisei¡¯s name being heralded as the savior of Calencia, he¡¯s receiving hero treatment from the entire nation. ¡°Let me off already¡­¡­.¡± Kisei, who was forced to participate in these parties for two weeks straight, said that and fell asleep. In his own words, this was the toughest battle he had ever experienced. In the end, it wasn¡¯t until a month after the end of the war that he was finally freed. ¡°Haaa¡­¡­.¡± With a long sigh, Kisei stretched. There were thin dark circles under his eyes. He was walking down a street in the downtown area while dragging a case behind him. ¡°Hmm?¡± He came to a sudden halt and squatted down in front of a roadside shop. While looking at the hand-made accessories lined up on the mat, he let out a small groan. ¡°What¡¯s wrong, do you want it?¡± Asked Diaroze who was walking behind him. She¡¯s wearing an old-fashioned military coat with an oversized travel bag in her hand. Anyone could tell that she was traveling somewhere at a glance. ¡°I¡¯m wondering which one I should get.¡± ¡°Dear customer, I think any of these would look good on you.¡± The girl who seems to be the shop owner said while rubbing her hands. The look in her eyes constrained more flattery than what she directed to her other customers. ¡°Are you his girlfriend? At a time like this, I believe it would be your turn to buy everything for him, you know?¡± With a complete change of attitude, she stared at Diaroze with provocative eyes. In return, Diaroze folds her arms and lets out a deep sigh. ¡°I¡¯m just a leech you see. Unfortunately, I¡¯m completely broke.¡± ¡°Ehh¡­¡­¡± The girl¡¯s expression immediately changed. It was as though she was looking at a piece of trash. Seeing that, Diaroze grins and continues. ¡°It¡¯s great to have such a nice man take care of my meals and even at night you know? Hmm? What¡¯s wrong? Jealous?¡± Kisei silently jabbed Diaroze at her knee. Perhaps because of the time they have spent together, his attitude toward her has turned terribly rude. However, Diaroze simply has a blissful look on her face as she lets out a small moan. ¡°It¡¯s not for me, I¡¯m buying it as a souvenir for my sister. It¡¯s been a while since I last went home you see.¡± ¡°Oh my. My shop only sells accessories aim at men though.¡± The girl replied in surprise while completely ignoring Diaroze. ¡°Well, it¡¯s okay. She will probably like this kind of thing after all¡­¡­¡± Although it¡¯s his sister, he hasn¡¯t seen her in over a few years. Kisei¡¯s voice was filled with uncertainties and the girl wondered what she should say. It was at that moment. ¡°Uwah!?¡± A large woman suddenly ran up and grabbed Kisei. She holds him under her arm and starts running at full speed. ¡°Ahh!? Oi!!¡± Diaroze rushed after her but a random thug appeared out of nowhere and tackled her. She was hit from the side and was blown away quite a distance. ¡°UWAHHHHH!¡± Hearing Diaroze¡¯s scream, Kisei tried to resist with all his might but there was no way he could win against a Vuld¡¯s physical strength. In the end, he was carried away. ¡°That should do it.¡± 10 minutes later. The kidnapper muttered so and rolled Kisei to the ground. He started to groan and looked around. He¡¯s currently inside a deserted back alley. He tries to run but the kidnapper grabs him by the collar and forces him to the ground. With just that, Kisei became unable to move. ¡°W, Who are you¡­¡­..¡± The kidnapper didn¡¯t answer. Instead, she brings her face close to his. ¡°Quite a find huh. You will fetch a good price.¡± Apparently, he was kidnapped for a ¡°commercial¡± purpose. Even though the war is already over, it would be a stretch to say that Calencia¡¯s public security has been restored. Finding this kind of criminal lurking around is not rare at all. ¡°Wait a minute. You said that would fetch a high price but there¡¯s no harm done if we have a taste first right?¡± The person who said that seems to be the minion of his kidnapper. Her words seemed to be the consensus of her subordinates and the other three thugs in the alley all nodded along. ¡°Of course. But I¡¯m first. You got that right?¡± ¡°Hehe! As expected of you sis, you do understand us!¡± It was the moment the other thugs cheered, and a burst of gunshots rang out in the alley. ¡°Uwah!?¡± One of the thugs who was shot in the shoulder rolls on the ground while holding her wound. The kidnapper immediately turned toward the gunshot and found Schleer aiming her pistol at her. With smoke still spewing out from the muzzle, Schleer yells. ¡°Take them down!¡± Along with that commander, a large number of women rushed at the kidnappers. A samurai with a katana, a knight with a red ponytail, a girl with pistols in both hands, and even an aristocrat-looking woman holding a machine gun. It was quite a terrifying sight. ¡°UWAHH!¡± ¡°You can hurt them but be careful to leave them alive! We can¡¯t be showing some unsightly corpses in front of him after all.¡± Seeing them being subdued in no time, Schleer declared so. After all, the kidnappers were overwhelmed in terms of both quantity and quality. ¡°Are you alright, My Love?¡± Valentina asked while extending her hand out to him. ¡°Yeah, for some reason¡± Kisei answered and took her hand to stand up. He then patted his flight jacket and jeans to get rid of the dust and glanced at Valentina¡¯s neck. ¡°You¡¯re still not convinced about this?¡± Around her neck was a collar of the same design as Diaroze. Naturally, the functionality of this collar is the exact same. With one press of a switch, Kise could blow off her head. ¡°Yeah¡­..I mean, is there a need for you to wear such a dangerous thing?¡± ¡°It¡¯s just my way to take responsibility.¡± Valentina said so as though she doesn¡¯t mind it at all. In the end, she did not return to Nored and became a general for Calencia. The collar was attached to her neck at her own request. She said that since she¡¯d betrayed Kisei and Schleer, this is her way to show that it won¡¯t happen again. ¡°Besides, it¡¯s a match with my sister, well, it¡¯s not that bad.¡± The expression on Valentina¡¯s face was terribly bright and refreshing. It¡¯s as though a weight has been lifted off her shoulders. ¡°Ahh, sorry, sorry. I was calling for reinforcements but it was too late.¡± Diaroze appears while scratching the back of her head. ¡°It was Diaroze who said that you would take responsibility and protect him. Is this what you have to show for that?¡± It was Liren who¡¯s carrying a large sniper rifle who criticized Diaroze so. Her already sharp eyes coupled with the harshness were directed at this former crown princess turned slave. ¡°That¡¯s right. Even though it¡¯s our long-awaited honeymoon, you suddenly tried hogging him to yourself.¡± ¡°Well, hahaha¡­¡­¡± Since Schleer is also blaming her for this, Diaroze has no choice but to laugh it off. ¡°We will take care of you later [DESU]. Please leave this to me.¡± While pointing her gun at the kidnappers, Nora whose limbs are sticking out from her robe said so with a grin. ¡°If there¡¯s going to be punishment then I would prefer Master do it though!¡± ¡°Isn¡¯t that just going to turn into a reward then?¡± Said Tersis with a sigh. ¡°If it¡¯s a reward then we would rather receive it ourselves. Why do we have to yield it to you when we were the ones who saved the day!¡± Eleanor snorted and push out her plump chest. ¡°Don¡¯t talk nonsense.! You just had your turn last night right! Get in line! It¡¯s my turn tonight!¡± Saki complains while making a sour expression. ¡°You all don¡¯t seem to want to hold back even though we¡¯re about to go on a long trip huh? I understand the need to have fun but you have to be mindful of Kisei¡¯s health okay?¡± The one who keeps Saki in check is Frea. The back alley was filled with Kisei¡¯s fiances. The sheer number already gave him a headache and he has to hold his head. ¡°Seriously, those women¡­¡­.Kisei-san, did they hurt you?¡± ¡°No, rather¡­¡­.do you think I will survive this trip back home?¡± ¡°I, I will beat those nymphos up if it comes down to that so, please don¡¯t worry¡­¡­.¡± Kisei stared at Schleer as though he wanted to say ¡°You¡¯re one of those nymphos too though.¡± He doesn¡¯t know whether it was because they became relaxed with the conclusion of the war or the fact that they just publicly announced the engagement, these girls do not hesitate in showing off their animalistic lust. One of them would sneak into his room each night so honestly, he¡¯s exhausted. ¡°Anyway, we are going to give our greeting to our sister-in-law. Make sure to look proper in front of her alright.¡± Schleer warned while narrowing her eyes. Kisei let out a small sigh. Since the post-war mess has been sorted out, Kisei decided to return home for once. The purpose of this trip is to introduce them to his family and invite them to the wedding. He had already informed his family about his current situation to some extent in the mail but he couldn¡¯t bring himself to write that he was marrying multiple women at the same time. Even now, he still wonders how to explain it when he gets home. After all, just thinking about that already gave him a headache. ¡°Alright! Let¡¯s hand these idiots over to the police. The ship is already prepared so let¡¯s head straight to the spaceport after this!¡± He doesn¡¯t know if Schleer understands his worry or not but she¡¯s urging them to move in a good mood. With a sigh, he gives her a small smile. ¡°Seriously, I might be able to find a better death if I continue to be a merc huh.¡± Contrary to his words, the look on his face was somewhat happy. TLN: Phew, it¡¯s over. The author said that there will be some afterstory but I will have to look for them first.