Bullet 22: GGG

　One day, in the bustling Butei High after finishing her general subject classes…

　Frustrated with Akari’s limited growth in her shooting abilities, Aria had ordered her to train with her in the underground shooting range of the Assault Department Center.

　As it is lunch break, the two girls are alone.

　Barabarabarabara! Bababababa!

　Akari tries her best to maintain proper shooting posture with fine finger control, but…

　The muzzle wobbles with recoil, and barely any of her bullets hit the humanoid target.

　From a range of only 15m… Only 6 out of her 100 rounds are effective. Even an amateur can get a better grade.

　Grabbing the target papers with their dismal results,

“Mo… How is such a low hit rate even possible?”

　Aria said, looking annoyed,

“I’m sorry…”

　Akari’s shoulders drooped dejectedly as she placed the Micro UZI down onto the shooting stand in front of her

“You… Originally had great skill when it came to shooting but… You are holding it back because of how your original shooting style and posture is different than what you were taught at Butei High, aren’t you?”

　Aria, who had been watching Akari shoot for a while now, said that such a pattern of terrible shooting is a common indicator of previous practice as a civilian… Akari’s face in response turns tense and she looks away from Aria.

“… I knew it. Before coming to Butei High you were using guns… Show me. Show me how you were trained to shoot originally.”

　When Aria hands over a now fully reloaded Micro UZI with its extended clip, Akari…

“I don’t want to.”

　Surprising Aria, Akari refuses.

　Or rather, even before that… For Aria, this is the first time that Akari had ever so clearly refused her order.

“This is all a part of your training, it does not matter to me where you hit.”

　Aria regains her composure and points to the target at the end of the range, although mentally she is confused as to why exactly Akari is so against demonstrating her true skill,

“I don’t want to show you. I will just train by myself from now on instead!”

　For some reason, Akari continues to stubbornly refuse.

　Faced with such rebellious attitude, Aria, who is naturally short-tempered…

“– Just shoot!!”

　When Aria shouts at Akari, as if that voice was the trigger for her…

　Akari using only her left hand rips the UZI out of Aria’s hand with a speed that even Aria could not see, babababababababababa! She first exactly 10 bullets with the gun set to full auto.

　Dadadadadadadadadada! Exactly 10 holes were ripped into the paper target with the human figure on it, the 9mm parabellum bullets burying themselves into the sand behind it.

　When shooting with a fast-firing sub-machine gun, typical shooting posture is to keep your elbows against your body and your armpits shut, allowing the user to brace for the guns recoil and control the barrels movement.

　It is natural for the shooter as well to focus on their vision. Looking directly at the target the shoot makes sure to pay attention to kick up from the bullet impact to adjust their aim. That way, even if the first few rounds miss, the shooter can quickly adjust their aim.

　An UZI is a rampaging horse of a gun that requires intense focus and a perfect stance to even have a hope of landing its immense spray of bullets.

　But, Akari…

　Quite on the contrary… She fully extends her left arm with a 90 degree angle to her body, using the guns own recoil to aim the next bullet… Instead of controlling the bucking UZI she expertly uses its own recoil to adjust where the bullets land, using barely any of her own energy to direct the gun.

　Instead of forcing the gun to stay still, she merely felt the tactile sensation of each shot in her left hand.

　On top of such an unorthodox and high level method of shooting… Akari was not looking at the target. Rather, she was looking at the ground, not looking at the lane never mind her target.

“…. 10 Bolts…”

　Akari mutters in a small voice something that Aria can only assume is a technique name.

　Aria, stunned and dumbfounded by Akari’s acrobatic display of shooting looks at the target.

　The target has 10 holes in it. Two in the forehead, right eye, left eye, throat, and heart of the target. All of the shots hit a vital point… Each bullet is a fatal injury if not an immediate kill shot.

　Overkill is an understatement… Each of Akari’s shots was a shot meant to kill without exception.

“…!”

　Aria is shocked at what she has just witnessed.

“Akari, you…”

　For Aria, this… Isn’t good. Butei Law, Article 9: Under no circumstance shall a Butei kill a person during his or her activities.

“… Are you satisfied with this?”

　Interrupting Aria, Akari for the first time since grabbing the Uzi looks at Aria and… Akari is giving Aria a glare with slight resentment at being forced to show Aria this.

　However, shortly after, tears replace her glare.

“… This… This isn’t what Butei are supposed to do…!”

　With her still warm and smoking UZI in her hands, Akari begins to groan before screaming, frantically wiping away the tears pouring down her cheeks…

“I’m sorry Aria-senpai. Please, please just pretend you did not see me do that.”

　Turning her back on the shocked Aria whose eyes are wide open, Akari runs as fast as she can away from the firing range… And Aria.

　With Akari having run away from the shooting range and leaving Aria there along… Aria cannot help but be at a complete loss.

(I thought you were hiding something, but… I never would have thought that secret to be such a high level skill that breaks Article 9.)

　Breaking Article 9. In other words, murder.

　Frankly speaking, it is rare for Butei High students to break Article 9. It is occasionally committed by exchange students from the United States and China where Butei can legally kill, but for a first-year student born in Japan is a rare occurrence.

　Thinking on it… Aria recalls another move that Akari had used before, Tobi-Ugachi.

　Fuuma had said that the Tobi-Ugachi “Originally, it was a shinobi killing technique to pick out the eyes and internal organs of the enemy with one’s bare hands”.

(Yes, that time too… And there is also what happened after…)

　Aria vividly recalls Akari’s face as she ran, her face full of pain and regret.

　Akari is normally just a normal, pure, and harmless innocent girl.

　But her hands, they have the muscle memory of moves meant originally purely for the purpose of killing. They have been trained to kill.

　Her body has been trained for the art of killing.

　Her techniques, sharp and advanced.

(… She comes from a regular junior high. How did she learn these techniques? This will be a difficult subject to ask her about…)

　As Aria crosses her arms and thinks about what to do next, in her mind is Akari’s innocent and pure smile… Tinged slightly with sadness and looking eerie.

　　§　　　§

　In the evening, the female students are practicing their diving in the indoor heated pool.

　The head instructor in charge is Ranbyou-sensei, who currently is wearing a hoodie over her swimsuit.

　Ranbyou-sensei, who also happens to be the homeroom teacher of Class 2C, also serves as the physical education teacher and a Assault Department teacher…

　She has super human strength, putting American comic book heroes to shame, and is named the appropriate “Human Bunker Buster”. If there is something she doesn’t like she starts steaming faster than a hot water heater, and if something unpleasant happens to her, such as the often occurrence of her being dumped by a man, she will punch, kick, and shoot students at Butei High to take out her anger on something, occasionally even flipping a school bus in the process. She has previously been dismissed from her previous job at Osaka Butei High after destroying a part of the building using her bare hands. How such a person could be hired at a school is unimaginable for much of Japan if not the world, but this is Butei High after all where this kind of attitude is normal if not encouraged.

　Despite these personality issues she is a slim, tall, and beautiful teacher. The scene of her just standing by the pool in her swimsuit is rather picturesque and alluring. Her style is something that a lot of the female students at Butei High admire.

　There was a portable whiteboard behind Ranbyou-sensei, full of information related to underwater combat, scuba equipment, and the do’s and dont’s of diving.

　Ranbyou-sensei gave an explanation to the lower grades, using her knife to point to the whiteboard instead of the usual metre stick, about 20 first year female students listened attentively to her lecture. Due to school regulations, all students are wearing a school swimsuit with a name tag cloth on it.

　The diving class is a free offer course, and a voluntary participation based class.

　Because of that, instead of it just being a single grade lesson, female students from all the grades were gathered there.

　At the lesson is Akari, Shino, Raika, and Kirin…

　After Ranbyou’s lesson, the diving training begins.

　However, the training itself is crudely done, with the training involving students putting on their own scuba kit and then diving on their own. Ranbyou’s logic is based on the fact that, for her, it is important for students to experience the water and movement themselves.

　While most of the girls are happily entering and swimming in the water from the poolside..

　One girl…

　Akari, wearing a brand new dark blue swimsuit, is sitting poolside.

　She had made an earlier promise with Shino and the others to come to training with them, but…

　The earlier incident at the shooting range is still bothering her, and she lacks the energy to swim.

　While Akari is quietly sitting, a worried Shino calls out to her.

“Akari-san… The diving training is optional. If you are not feeling well, do you want me to take you to Medica?”

　On Shino’s chest, which was more emphasized than usual by the older style swimming suit… Kasha. There was a small sound, that Akari did not notice.

　At Shino’s words, who she knew is worried about her, Akari gave her her usual smile.

“N-, no. It is okay, I am fine Shino-chan.”

　Patapata, Akari waves her hand to Shino.

　But, when Akari saw Shino’s endlessly kind face…

“But, you know… actually…”

　Her inner desire to be heard, to talk to someone, won over.

“I did, no, showed Aria-senpai something that she probably hates.”

　To Akari, who is clearly depressed,

“You have nothing to worry about.”

　Shino, hearing that Akari and Aria’s relation is beginning to fracture, looks at Akari with a caring smile.

　In actuality, Shino is not the only one who is worried about Akari…

　Kirin, who is wearing a white old style school swimsuit, also called out to Akari.

“Mamiya-san, you have been trying and training super hard recently! I am certain that Aria-senpai doesn’t hate you!”

　As if to match what Kirin just said,

“If you keep acting so down, won’t she come to actually hate you…?”

　Raica, who is wearing a brand new black and blue shiny swimsuit decided to try and cheer up Akari with a lighthearted joke.

　And then, to try and cheer up Akari, Kirin and Raika each hugged one of her arms to their chest and made her stand up.

　While being encouraged by the three of them…

“… un!” (TL Note: just a reminder, “un/うん” is an agreement, “yes”, etc.)

　Akari’s natural smile returning to her face,

“Oi, Mamiya.”

　Ranbyou, approaching with a clipboard while scratching her long pony tailed head with the butt of her ballpoint pen,

“You should take the examination for promotion to D rank next month.”

“eh”

　Surprised by this unexpected news, Akari,

“After poring over the data from the Quartet, Masters has given the OK for the examination.”

　Ranbyou grinned while giving Akari the good news.

　Akari’s life has been hard recently but finally there was good news. Akari’s face lit up when she was given the chance to finally raise her Butei rank from E to D.

“Congratulations, Mamiya-sama! You did it!”

“Good job!”

“Good for you!”

　Kirin, Raika, and Shino all surrounded Akari with bright smiles.

　Everyone congratulated the fact that Akari could now take the examination.

(That’s right… Now I can get closer to Aria-senpai, even if it is just my rank!)

　Akari pulls herself together and clenches her fist tightly.

　Then,

“Alrighty~. This is everyone’s reward for being so serious about a voluntary course~”

　Yutori Takamagahara, an Inquesta instructor, brought a box full of ice with her on a small cart.

　Takamagahara-sensei, who is on good terms with Ranbyou-sensei, even sharing a room with her albeit in private, is known as the kindest teacher at Butei High.

　Her kindness on full display, and to everyone’s surprise… The box that is full of ice has ice cream in it, for the students to enjoy even though they are still in class.

　The students, overjoyed and happily cheering for Takamagahara-sensei all gathered around her, including Akari and the others. Looking closely you can even see Ranbyou-sensei grabbing an ice cream. It would seem that all girls, even adults, enjoy ice cream.

　Because of the ice cream that Takamagahara brought, the class felt and acted as if they were done and on free time, but the class wasn’t over yet.

“Now that we are done with the ice cream, lets get back to training”

　Ranbyou-sensei, who had calmed down after eating her ice cream, told the girls nonchalantly, with the girls responding “Okay” and entering the pool.

　Micro Aqualung scuba gear, which had been developed quite recently and can hold 500 bottles of air despite its small size, can only be used for 10 minutes at a time.

　Ranbyou, who is watching from poolside…

“Eh?”

　Ranbyou caught sight of Akari diving through a ring set up in the water, and the figure of a student swimming perfectly behind her at a distance of about 1m… It is Shino Sasaki.

　Watching Shino’s movements, Ranbyou’s face turns into a smile.

(So, Sasaki is practicing underwater tracking? She’s good at it.)

　Sasaki is a good swimmer, and is giving Akari a skilful chase. Ranbyou couldn’t help though but think that Sasaki’s eyes, seemingly licking over Akari’s lower body was somehow distasteful, but Ranbyou was sure that that is just her imagination. They are both girls, after all.

　　§　　　§

(…Fufufu… Ufufufufu…)

　As Shino is secretly chasing after Akari in the water, from her chest… Kasha.

　With this sound, the shutter closes and reopens for the 12th time.

　In Shino’s old school swimsuit, a dark smile on her face… Is a hidden camera, tucked away between the cleavage of her big E-cup breasts.

　Through an inconspicuous hole above the name tag “Sasaki”, a photo of Akari in her swimsuit from behind is taken!

(… This infrared digital camera is ultra-compact, water resistant up to five atmospheres, and can even be remotely controlled! How wonderful!)

　Shino casually has a pink ring on her left little finger, and within the ring is a hidden switch that allows her to activate the camera.

　An infrared camera. Using infrared rays, it can even see through swimsuits. (TL Note: Yes this is accurate.)

　Infrared in particular can pierce through chemical fibres well, and because of that they have been cracked down by regulations in use on public pools and beaches.

(A big catch of treasured photos! Tonight I am having sekihan in celebration!)

　With a happy expression, Shino…

　Akari swam up to the surface, so Shino’s pursuit was interrupted. And…

　Perhaps because she was having fun swimming, as Akari pokes her face out of the water she has a bright and sunny smile on her face, Kasha.

　She made sure to imprint this, the best shot of the day, firmly in her mind (and of course her camera).

　… After their training, the girls have free time in the pool.

　This is the final basic class for the day.

　The students after school have some fun, swimming, chatting, and finishing up the leftover ice cream.

　At this poolside, Raika as per the usual is being harassed by Kirin.

“Onee-sama!♪ We should exchange our body temperatures!”

　While asking Raika to spoil her, Kirin has changed out of her school swimsuit and is wearing a thin swimsuit instead.

“Do you know what you are asking!!”

　Since they were in front of everyone else, Raika immediately shot down Kirin’s request. However,

(… This isn’t good… Kirin is even super cute when she isn’t wearing fluttery clothes…!)

　In the end, Raika’s head is on the verge of boiling when she saw and felt the lovely figure of Kirin clinging onto her.

　Perhaps it is because what Raika secretly wants and what she says is mixed up and the opposite, but her eyes are closed shut and yet she is smiling, as well her eyebrows are raised in joy but her mouth but her mouth is angry… It is a complicated expression that only one who is truly confused on how they feel could make in such a situation.

　Still, Raika’s face, which is relaxed partially by the overwhelmingly cute Kirin,

“Raika-sans face…”

“You are grinning~”

　Shino and Akari, who are swimming and playing in the pool, begin to tease Raika,

　Akari and Shino know that deep in her heart that Raika secretly thinks that Kirin is super cute, and that Raika is only pretending to be a super strict Amica, so…

　Raika, hiding her bright red face with her arms began to shout at Akari and Shino “don’t look at me!!”.

　At Raika’s reaction, Akari and Shino began to both burst into laughter.

　For Akari, spending such precious time with her important friends is a lot of fun.

　While exchanging smiles with Shino, Raika, and Kirin, Akari began to think.

(That’s right… I need to forget about the past… And just enjoy my time at Butei High!)

　Akari had recalled her painful, dark, and regretful past back at the shooting range.

　Forget it. Akari decided to replace it with this fun and daily life with her friends at Butei High.

　　§　　　§

　Butei High was built upon a rectangular floating artificial island referred to as a Mega Float.

　Structurally speaking, at the edge of the mega float is a precipice with Tokyo Bay below you. Alongside the mega float are stairs at regular intervals that lead down to the sea as well as scaffolding. The scaffolds underneath are occasionally used as a simple pier for boats and yachts to dock at.

　On a spring night, a night with the Rainbow Bridge illuminated and shining brightly… Riko Mine, a 2nd-year Inquesta student, Class A, is descending the stairs of the mega float down to the sea in a corner of the now deserted school island.

　On the surface of the sea is a float that earlier she had painted pitch black.

　With a smile on her face, Riko steps onto the stable scaffolding, chika, chikachika…

　And she flashes a signal using a flashlight towards the sea.

　Then…

　Pukari.

　Pukari.

　… Two objects emerge from the water in the shadow of the night.

　Those objects had been hiding just below the surface of the water, awaiting Riko’s signal to emerge.

　Orcus… A small manned torpedo modified from a super cavitation torpedo that resembles a missile and can effortlessly cut through the water at high speeds.

　The two submarines, capable of fitting 2-3 people lying down with their explosive payloads removed, each came up alongside the raft that Riko Mine is standing on.

　The hatch of the submarine opens, and the crew members inside can now be seen…

“Jeanne, Kyochikuto, you must be tired!”

　Riko greeted them with the same personality that she usually has when interacting with her friends from class 2A, cheerfully and happily.

　In each of the Orcus torpedoes was one person.

　From the first one,

“… I am not tired. It was on autopilot for the entire trip.”

　A Caucasian girl with silver hair stood up, turning her sapphire coloured eyes towards Riko.

　Her body is partially clad in French medieval armour, and in her hands she is carrying a sword encased in a jewel encrusted metal scabbard.

　… A recruiter for the secret society of I.U…

　However, she is often referred to as “The Witch of Diamond Dust”, Jeanne, a serial kidnapper…

　After confirming the beautiful movie actress face of a friend she hadn’t seen in a long time, Riko held out a hand to assist Jeanne in crossing a small gap between the raft and Orcus.

　Riko pulls Jeanne towards her by her hand and turns to face the other Orcus.

　Inside that Orcus is a black-haired women, sitting comfortable on the seat with a carved kiseru in her mouth, who turns towards Riko and breathes out a puff of smoke.

　Riko only ever smokes when disguising herself as someone who already smokes, so she does not personally know how hard it must be for Kyochikuto to keep herself from smoking while in the smoke free environment of the submarine. Despite Kyochikuto’s lack of facial expressions, watching her pleasantly smoke her pipe, with the purple smoke rising… Riko found it oddly grown up and sexy.

　Riko had to admit, she likes the mismatched combination of a black sailor uniform from her elementary school days and the smoking, it was a villainous bad-girl appearance.

“I am not tired either, I slept the entire way.”

　… This is I.U’s expert in poisons, “Imperial Scorpion”, Kyochikuto…

　She is Japanese from the Chiba Prefecture. She looks to be 16 years old, about as old as Riko and the others, but she is actually 24 years old, a graduate of the University of Tokyo’s Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences. She is a dangerous woman who knows any and all kinds of harmful substances such as poisons, deleterious substances, and radioactive materials.

　She has expert knowledge and the ability to construct biological, chemical, and “dirty boms” or non-thermonuclear weapons. Because of her expertise in all of these fields, her title of “Imperial Scorpion” is not a mistake… She truly is capable of fighting alone as a deadly force. For Riko, she is one of her top picks for people that she does not want to have as an enemy.

“K, Kiyo-chan, please give me your hand.”

　With a slightly theatrical gesture, Riko holds out her hand to Kiyochikuto,

“…”

　However, Kiyo only stares at her with her dark, cold eyes.

　Her left hand, holding a pipe…

　Is wrapped in a thing, white cloth glove.

　Seeing that, Riko is reminded of her “left hand”…

“Oops. I am guessing you don’t need my help?”

　With a wry smile, Riko silently withdraws her outstretched hand.

“That would be wise.”

　While breathing out a ring shaped smoke, Kiyochikuto spoke expressionlessly.

　After a short while…

　Riko, Jeanne, and Kiyochikuto are all on the raft.

　The team name that the three have been assigned is “Attack Girl Corps”. While some might not be referred to as a girl due to their age, that was disregarded as they look as much of a young girl as the other members.

　The three members of the team, looking up at the mega float…

　Riko, who is in high spirits, raises her hand up to the night sky.

“Now then, good luck to each of our goals, to either kidnap or kill a girl… Three girls, three G’s, Operation GGG!!”

　I.U even now is recruiting talented individuals who they can train to become excellent criminals worldwide.

　Among the girls here, all have joined I.U of their own will with one having received an invitation. However, judicial officials, such as Butei Members, typically don’t join on their own and thus have to be kidnapped to join their ranks. If their attempt to recruit them fails, only death awaits them to keep their mouths shut.

　For this operation, the students of Butei High that were up for recruitment into I.U or death are…

　Kanzaki H. Aria, which Riko is in charge of.

　Hotogi Shirayuki, which Jeanne is in charge of.

“Be careful, Riko. Your target… Aria is a S-rank Butei.”

　Riko is in her usually playful mood, but Jeanne thrusts her sword into the raft, stabbing it in response to Riko’s lack of seriousness.

　However, this did nothing to change Riko’s mood.

“Aria is much more fragile than she seems, this will be a piece of cake. All my preparations are already complete, kufufufu.”

“Than you can help me with my preparations. I plan on catching Shirayuki Hotogi as soon as I get back to Tokyo.”

　Jeanne realized that Riko has some leeway and is already ready for her part of the operation, and after saying that,

“Who are you planning on recruiting?”

　She decides to confirm this with Kiyochikuto.

　Sitting on a large trunk, looking up at the mega float with both of her dark, empty eyes, Kiyochikuto slowly opens her small mouth.

“… The seeds I had planted two years ago are about to bloom. I am merely here to pick the flowers.”

　Then, after slowly removing the pipe from her mouth… she blew out the smoke,

“Yes… This is a simple job, just like picking flowers…”

　Kiyochikuto says her targets name.

“My target… is Akari Mamiya.”

Bullet 21: Shirayuki Hotogi

　A Quartet is a match in which good friends who have deepened their bond fight in a 4v4 match…

　One day, during their lunch break, the four girls were supposed to get together at the school cafeteria.

　As Shino was walking through the cafeteria holding a tray of tempura soba,

“Sasaki-sama, please come sit over here–“

　Kirin, who was eating neapolitan spaghetti at a round table, called out to her.

　At the same table was also Raika, who was currently stuffing her mouth with a large hamburger.

　Shino bowed lightly in response to Kirin’s offer, and joined the table with the two of them.

“Where is Akari-san…?”

　Looking around and not seeing Akari, Shino asked Raika and Kirin where she is,

“She is in the Assault department right now, Aria-senpai made her stay and train with her.”

　Raika answers her.

“She is being forced to train…”

　Upon hearing this, Shino’s mind went through a temporary, although frequent, split into two personalities, an angel and a devil,

(On the one hand I am anxious about what they are doing…)

　Spoke the demon,

(However, after training, Akari-chan’s clothes are dishevelled, and Akari-chan will be tired after her training and typically tends to want to play whenever she is tired. Should I look at this as an opportunity to spend some time playing with Akari…?)

　The conversation with the angel was about 30 times more talkative than the devil this time.

　The pure Raika, who couldn’t even begin to comprehend the conversations going on in Shino’s mind right now,

“It seems really troublesome and busy to have an Amica in the same department as yourself. Personally, I would feel as if I am being watched and judged all the time…”

　Muttering such things to herself, she bites into and rips off a piece of her burger.

　In response to Raika’s comment, Kirin seemed to remember something,

“Come to think of it… Sasaki-sama, didn’t you recently take an Amica Contract Test?”

　She asked Shino.

“Actually, how did that go? What did you have to do?”

　Raika decided to join in on this conversation out of curiosity.

　It is true that recently Shino herself joined into an Amica Contract. However, since then since she was so preoccupied with spending as much time as possible with Akari, she has not actually talked about it at all.

　That said, it is not like she was trying to keep what happened a secret, and it is a good story after all…

　–Shino smiled, decided to share her story, and began to tell how her Amica Contract test went…

“My Amica Exam? Well, at the time…”

　　§　　　§

　… Going back in time, although not too far back, just a short while before now…

　… At the northeast of the Aomori Prefecture, at the foot of Mt. Osore…

(So this is where Shirayuki Hotogi, who was recommended by Masters, is staying.)

　After getting out of her luxury Bentley Mulsanne, Shino looks up nervously.

　Under a red sky, stone steps are lined up as a staircase, and at the top is a scarlet red torii gate.

　Beyond that torii gate is a Hotogi shrine…

　It is at this branch shrine of the Hotogi that Shino is supposed to meet with Shirayuki Hotogi.

“Then, young master, do be careful. I will pick you up once you return.”

　The maid who had driven Shino up until this point is one of the Miyamoto sisters who is wearing a suit while driving, and bows her head.

“Yes, thank you for your hard work.”

　After seeing off the Bentley Mulsanne, Shino pauses for a while on the quiet roadway where cars rarely drive. All she can hear are the sounds of the wind and the chirping of birds…

　With a trunk in one hand and her sabre in the other, she begins to climb the stone steps.

　Before long, she approached the torii gate…

“—“

　Zaza.

　Miko’s in shrine maiden uniforms appear from behind the right and left pillars of the torii gate.

　Not only do they appear, they immediately begin slashing at Shino with their beautiful white blades glinting in the sunlight.

　One was armed with a tanto, one with a naginata… The attack was a surprise attack, but Shino did not panic.

　The shrine maidens were clearly young and inexperienced, on top of that their murderous intent was clear to Shino long before she approached the torii gate.

　While calmly placing her trunk on the stone steps, she began to parry the two surprise attacks at the same time, her saber still sheathed.

　No further attacks came.

　Because of that, Shino felt no need to unsheathe her sword.

　Right after that…

“– You are courteous, and skilled with the sword.”

“– You are also well dressed and clean. You have passed the test.”

　Scattering one to the left and one to the right of the stone steps, and sheathing their weapons, the two miko’s led Shino through the torii gate.

“I am Konayuki Hotogi. This is my younger sister, Hanayuki. Both of us are Shirayuki’s younger sisters.”

　Konayuki, with her long black hair tied back with a ribbon, spoke calmly,

“Please excuse our earlier rudeness.”

　Hanayuki, with her black hair in braids, spoke to Shino in a strange tone.

“– I am Shino Sasaki. Nice to meet you.”

　Shino nodded coolly at both of them, as if the earlier attack on her life had never happened.

　After that Shino was guided by Shirayuki’s younger sisters… And approaches the shrine entrance.

　The sun is now setting in the area, but unlike the city with lights every few feet in all directions, here it is dark.

　A flower-patterned Japanese candle is placed on the candlestick held by Hanayuki. This source of light is the only thing brightening the path the three girls walk along the porch.

　Shino’s sabre and trunk are entrusted to some of the other miko that are working here, and Shino, who is now empty-handed,

“We have brought you this far now, however, if you cannot handle yourself properly, you will not be allowed to go any further. Shirayuki-neesama is a model of the Yamato Nadeshiko and a national treasure.”

　Konayuki, walking in front of Shino, spoke with pride twinkling in her eyes.

　Shirayuki Hotogi, whom Shino is proposing to become her Amica, is currently the subject of a preamble on how wonderful of a person, and a sister, she is. Konayuki seems to just be a little too infatuated, however…

　– On the other hand–

“… I am usually like her too, though…”

　Hanayuki looked down and to the side breaking out into a sweat, spilling out a comment with some kind of odd implication.

　After that, Shino was led to a Japanese-style room with a large sliding door.

　On the other side of this sliding door is Shirayuki’s room.

　So, Shino sat perfectly straight on a tatami mat and straightened her back.

“Nee-sama, I have brought you a guest.”

　In response to Konayuki’s words, a calm voice came from inside, “Please, come inside”.

　It is finally time for Shino to meet with Shirayuki.

(… Hotogi Shirayuki-senpai…)

　An Amica contract is requested by one of the two potential members, and Shino had requested Shirayuki… Simply because she just seemed to be an excellent senpai. She is the student council president with a reputation for excellent grades, is a beautiful traditional Japanese beauty, is talented, and even a good photographer. For Shino, Shirayuki felt worthy of being her Amica.

　But this Amica application…

　But really, what Shino needed was just an Amica… Who the other party was didn’t really matter to her too much. Shino merely wanted to be part of an Amica group with Akari, which is why she needed an older sister Amica. So, she requested for one.

　For Shino her Amica can be anyone as long as they are worthy of her and has a respectable background.

　Article 6 of the Butei Charter: Think for yourself, act for yourself. It was in this manner that Shino intended to see this through.

　However… Using Shirayuki in this matter made Shino feel a tinge of guilt in her heart. Is this an insult to her sincerity?

　Naturally, Shirayuki was not aware of Shino’s actual intentions with this Amica Contract.

“…”

　Shino makes sure to keep a calm expression to ensure that Shirayuki doe snot see through her deceit.

　Konayuki and Hanayuki each sat on either side of Shino. Then, in tandem, they opened the fusuma from either side.

　Beyond that, in a large Japanese style room…

　Shino saw the back of a woman in miko clothing, long and beautiful black hair flowing down her back.

　In the back of this dark and spacious Japanese style room, Shirayuki is sitting on her knees upright, facing a flower arrangement.

　Strangely, she has not yet turned around to face Shino.

　However, despite this, she did not give of the impression of being rude. Her beauty was inhumane, her pitch black and glossy hair matching her miko costume perfectly. One did not even need to recognize her beauty to assume that she is from a noble lineage, her sitting posture is immaculate.

(So this is Shirayuki Hotogi senpai, a second year student in SSR…)

　Shino bowed in a three finger pose, (TL Note: Traditional bow, here is an image if you are interested in what it looks like. https://t.pimg.jp/017/038/731/1/17038731.jpg . This bow in particular has a lot of nuances to it such as when it is used or its meanings.)

“Please forgive my rudeness in rudely intruding on your training. I am Sasaki Shino, who had called you earlier about meeting you.”

　Shino spoke first, although she questioned if she was sounding too clerical.

　… Shirayuki, on the other hand,

“… If you were a junior with a hear that is unrelenting, I would not have even allowed you to meet me, but…”

　With her back still turned to Shino, she spoke about the “heart”.

　Her gentle tone was one of a mother that could clearly look in on the hearts of her children…

　This overwhelming atmosphere, combing with Shirayuki’s voice, overwhelmed Shino and in response she inadvertently raises her head.

　But then Shirayuki turns around and with a smile,

“… If that is your heart, that is fine. You and I, we are surely similar.”

　She looked at Shino with eyes that were kind, very kind, making Shirayuki look like a mother and even sacred.

　It was then that Shino realizes.

　Shirayuki must be as esper.

　Shino had never met an esper before, so she couldn’t be sure. But, this mood… this atmosphere. The feeling Shirayuki gave off was not one of a mere mortal. When Shino had heard that she is an honour student from SSR, she had imagined that Shirayuki is merely obsessed with the occult like many others, but clearly she is not. This girl, surely she has some kind of supernatural powers.

　If that is the case… Shino wondered, can Shirayuki truly see into her heart?

　But if that is true, there is no way that Shirayuki would just say “that’s fine”.

　In other words, Shirayuki does not know the truth. She does not know that Shino is just merely looking to become her Amica to enter into a Amica Group with Akari.

　She might as well push through, the ship has already sailed so to speak.

　Shino has already met Shirayuki after all…

　But… However…

(What an attractive… No… Beautiful person…)

　Shino was captivated by Shirayuki’s gentle and soft smile… One look at her stole her heart.

　Shino realized now why Konayuki was so fascinated and enamoured with her beauty. Shino did not know if it was right to refer to Shirayuki as a “healing” kind of beauty, but she has to admit to herself that just by looking at her she felt her soul being soothed. She is also a miko carrying on tradition and an intelligent girl, so perhaps her younger sisters referring to her as a “national treasure” is not too much of an exaggeration.

(… no, stop!)

　Bunbun, Shino shook her head to clear her thoughts.

(I already have a good friend, Akari!)

　Shino always considered herself to be the type who does not fall in love easily, but…

　She could only imagine that right now she must be blushing. Is this what they call love at first sight? Beauty truly is sinful.

　Later that day, after her meeting with Shirayuki, Shino parted ways and was forced to eat dinner separately from the other miko. After taking her bath, she was ordered to go to bed at 8 p.m. At the Hotogi Shrine, this seems to be an iron clad rule.

　For as long as Shino could remember she had slept on a western bed, so she was quite happy to be able to sleep on a futon in a Japanese style room. Since it was still early for Shino, she was able to do her nightly “fantasizing about fun times with Akari” for two hours… In her imagination both were dressed in Kimono’s playing cops and robbers, etc.

　Waking up to the morning sunshine, mentally refreshed now, Shino was prepared and enthusiastic to finally face her Amica Exam.

　Shino feels as if, no matter what the exam is, as long as she thinks about Akari-chan anything is possible. Nothing is too hard for her now.

　– Walking alongside Shirayuki in the hallway of the shrine early in the morning.

　In addition, Shino has changed into a shrine maiden outfit prepared by Konayuki for her exam. She is wearing a white kosode and scarlet hakama for the first time, however she had to admit to herself that she looked rather attractive in it.

　But this corridor…

　Weapons, such as bows, spears, naginata’s, swords, and matchlock guns are leaning against the walls.

　It looks more like a corridor in a medieval castle than a corridor in a shrine.

　From the moment that Shino arrived she had the vague impression that, although this shrine very much is arranged in the style of a Shinto shrine, it somehow felt more like a fortress. But that in itself is nothing new, this is something also seen in Enryaku-ji Temple, which had monk soldiers.

　Shino is also a female student at Butei High, naturally she is not one who is shocked by the mere sight of a weapon.

“Within your heart… Is a single person that you have strong feelings for.”

　Shirayuki’s words as she walked down the corridor made Akari’s face reflexively appear in Shino’s mind.

“We will test your ability to learn with training that will also help you achieve your inner desire.”

　Looking behind her at Shino, Shirayuki spoke seriously with a stern expression.

　Around her, the Japanese swords and naginata’s are emitting a dull silver shine.

　Shino could only guess as to what kind of terrifying test and training awaited her.

　But worrying is pointless. There is no option for Shino to withdraw now.

“–Yes!” (TL Note: “──はい！” is used here. This can be used as an agreement, answering a question, etc. Here it is used as a form of acceptance.)

　Swallowing her fears and worries, Shino made up her mind and answered Shirayuki.

　The place that Shino is brought to is the shrines kitchen.

　Konayuki and Hanayuki are there as well, and help Shirayuki and Shino change into aprons. (TL Note: This is something that I should have explained earlier, but each of Shirayuki’s sisters much like her have a name with two “words”. Shira=white and Yuki=snow. Hana=flower yuki=snow. Kona=powder yuki=snow. Kaze=wind yuki=snow. It is also here that I realize that I called Kazeyuki Kazayuki in vol 20, my apologies. It has been fixed now.)

“Are we… Cooking…?”

　What is considered a Amica Exam is freely decided upon by the two sisters… Shirayuki explained that the exam will be divided into several hour blocks, and for the first hour the exam is “cooking”.

　–Speaking to Shino, who is standing confused with a knife in one hand and a potato in the other,

“Yes. Home cooking is a traditional act of Yamato Nadeshiko that allows you to convey your thoughts to your loved ones.” (TL Note: Yamato Nadeshiko refers to the personification of the idealized Japanese woman.)

　Wearing a triangular bandage, Shirayuki conveys her logic with a sharp expression. (TL Note: I am not sure what this triangular bandage is, googling the Japanese term just give me photos of people wearing a support bandage for when you injure a arm.)

　Shino could not help but begin to worry that there is something… irregular… about her senpai.

“Huh…”

　– For a moment, Shino was disappointed, but… Shino is serious in her heart, so she decided to just visualize Akari for Shirayuki’s earlier theme of the exam, “We will test your ability to learn with training that will also help you achieve your inner desire.”.

　Shino has a special… Skill, that allows her to instantly summon “Akari-chan” in her mind, at any time, a convenient skill for a girl with her mindset.

　Shino is now committed to improving her cooking skills in this exam, the goal being Akari-chan loving eating her home cooked meals and saying “It’s delicious” Shino-san, let’s get married!”.

　Paa~, Shino’s expression lit up.

“Hai! I will do my best!”

　Motivation instantly flooding her body, Shino started to cook with Shirayuki.

　It seems that Shirayuki has a target as well for who she wants to cook a meal for as while she is stirring a pot of boiling rice,

“Cooking is a patient process!”

“Cooking is a patient process!”

　The two girls energized and excited themselves with their passionate shouts as they cooked. Perhaps it is because they share the same way of showing affection for the person that they love but they began to shout in harmony without either of the two telling the other to do so.

　And finally… a secret ingredient is mixed into the cauldron.

“Oneesama-Shirayuki, the final ingredients are this and this!”

　Konayuki, who helped them choose the ingredients to put into the pot, brought in… Copperhead snakes, garlic, eels, soft-shelled turtles, maca, etc. Shirayuki and Shino greeted the ingredients with mischievous smiles as if the ingredients are only natural.

　Hanayuki looking on at this scene,

“… ughhh… it looks normal, but it is filled with aphrodisiacs…”

　With slightly teary eyes, she looked on at the final ingredients with fear.

　After completing her cooking exam, the venue for the second stage of the Amica Exam is another Japanese-style room.

　There, Shino sat across from Shirayuki at an ebony wood table.

　It is an old fashioned Japanese-style room decorated with historical depictions on hanging scrolls and pottery on a low table… On the table in front of Shino, the latest spy cameras are lined up in a row.

“Infrared cameras are more effective for recording swimwear than undergarments.”

　Picking up a camera, Shirayuki explains in novice terms the camera.

　Shino has the bare minimum of knowledge on cameras as she found them useful for her Shino-like justice.

　However, Shirayuki is an expert, her many cameras and pieces of equipment are advanced and practical. Shino could only admit that she has much to learn from Shirayuki.

“And this is a super micro camera. It is a very small camera that can be attached to anything with a sticker”.

　Shirayuki held a a new digital camera, smaller than a one-yen coin between her fingers, and,

“This kind of ultra-compact camera is prepared by attaching it to the inside of the shoe with a pinhole on the toe.”

　She also demonstrated to Shino how to incorporate it into the loafers and strap shoes that girls are recommended to wear at Butei High.

　Apparently as well, the camera installed into the shoe is a wireless type that does not require a table and can be connected to a mobile phone or smartphone via Bluetooth.

　At a first glance, it just looks like a pair of shoes with a slightly loose instep. There is no feeling of discomfort when wearing it. Shino had to admit to herself, she is quite proud of the human race and the rapidly advancing science that allows something this advanced to exist.

“Something like this will never be discovered by your target or others.”

“I can’t believe I am learning this much…!”

“Basically put, in any situation you should aim to get the highest quality image in order to see any minuscule detail clearly. However, rather than sticking to still images and missing potential opportunities, you should aim to take high-quality video as much as possible.”

“When it comes to taking video, there is a limit to the means of what formats to record said video in, as well as the available recording time due to media size limitations…”

“There is also an app that allows you to upload to the cloud at the same time as recording the video or taking a photo. Whenever your device hits a set limit, the media is uploaded to the cloud and deleted from the main unit. Thus, until your battery runs out, you can keep recording or taking photos without fear of missing out.”

　Both Shirayuki and Shino made vicious and passionate faces, faces that they usually do not show out in public…

　They were having fun, laughing with each other occasionally, “ufufufufu“.

“Shirayuki-nee-sama, you are so passionate about your lessons, you are absolutely wonderful…!”

　Konayuki’s innocent eyes shined as if she was fascinated and enthralled with Shirayuki, as she demonstrated her full maniacal knowledge on digital photography equipment.

　Amidst the creepy mood brewing in the room, which had since long stopped being an exam, only Hanayuki could whisper, albeit in a hushed voice…

“O-, Onee-sama’s dangerous side is going full throttle…!”

　This girl, Shino, must be why this is happening.

　The truth, naturally, no one fully understood or wanted to know.

　After their pleasant lesson and discussion on effective voyeurism, it was decided that the next step in the Amica Exam would take place outdoors.

　This time, it was a more traditional Butei activity.

　The exam was a sort of bayonet fencing.

　With that said, Shino was handed an old gun, a Type 38 Infantry Rifle, with an attached bayonet. (TL Note: The Arisaka Type 38 is being talked about here, a fantastic rifle used by the Japanese in WW2.)

　In a gravel floor section of the temple grounds stood two human-sized straw dolls.

　The straw dolls had a head prepared, and were both life size. (TL Note: I am not sure why the author repeated the previous line.)

　For some reason, however… Both dolls have pink twin tails.

　Shirayuki had put up the dolls herself but when she saw the pink twin tails on the dolls… Her face warped into one of a demon.

“– The cat thief homewrecker must be eliminated immediately!”

　Gusaaa!

　Without any particular explanation for her actions, suddenly Shirayuki stabbed the bayonet of her rifle into the straw doll.

　Her sharp and pristine bayonet effortless pierces the mid line of the straw doll, which had been modified to mimic a real human body in terms of density. At Butei High such a strike aimed at the throat would have resulted in deducted points (such a strike would always result in the target dying and murder is outlawed for Butei in all situations).

　Although she has not said it out loud or understand how this can be… Shino, also, happens to hate pink twin tails for some reason as why.

“– Eliminated immediately!”

　Following Shirayuki’s example, Shino thrust her weight sharply as if she was sticking her knees out front and thrusted her bayonet at the straw doll. Gusari. She, too, struck the mid line of the doll in a beautiful strike. While she struck slightly left of exactly the mid line, this was intentional… She was aiming for the heart.

　To keep spirits high, both girls had hinomaru headbands around their foreheads. Shirayuki’s had the words “love” and “heart” on either side of a red ball on hers while Shino had “apprentice” written on hers. (TL Note: Red ball here is referring to the Japanese flag.)

　– What is being practiced here is prohibited by Butei law, but Shirayuki appears to have no qualms with practicing killing techniques and is also quite good at them. Shino tries to match her moves and felt quite good doing them. Shino felt quite happy simulating killing a pink twin tail straw doll with all her might, the straw doll in her mind looking exactly like a hostile opponent.

“We must be especially wary with women who have flirtatious hairstyles like this!”

　Shirayuki, clenching her teeth, turns her face into one of pure murderous intent, as if she was actively in a duel,

“Especially if they have pink hair… As soon as you find one, kill them!”

　With another bayonet charge Shirayuki charges the straw doll again, hitting it in the throat again.

　This time after stabbing she twists the bayonet to the left, gurii! After twisting the bayonet to the left she then ribs it out, gouging out the entire left side of the doll. At this point, the entire dolls neck would be gouged and cut out, turning a killing strike into a massacre. (TL Note: I took a bit of liberty with this sentence since a more direct translation just doesn’t make sense and repeats itself.)

　However, Shirayuki’s bayonet techniques doesn’t simply end at the neck of her nemesis.

　– Supaa–!

　She continued to make sharp attacks to the side of the head where the neck meets the skull.

　The cervical vertebrae are the thickest and strongest of the human bodies bones, but the oak core wood, which Shino assumed to be the vertebrae in the straw doll, was easily cracked and cut clean.

　Goton. And thus, the head of the pink twin tail doll fell to the ground…

　Shino and Konayuki who saw this began to applaud, saying “Brilliantly done!”

　It was around this point that Shino finally returns to her sense.

　Their relationship goes farther than mere senpai and her junior. It seems that, by mere coincidence, Hotogi Shirayuki-senpai also happens to be aiming for Kanzaki H. Aria. Shino could only cheer that she happens to have a reliable ally.

　Gusari! Gusa! As Shino began to pierce her own straw doll with her bayonet, Shino’s expression began to resemble the manic expression on Shirayuki.

“You have a firm face, Sasaki-sama.”

　Even Konayuki, who rarely likes people, began to praise Shino.

　In the midst of Shino’s attacks, Shirayuki stabbed and leaned her bayonet rifle into her straw dolls head as if her bayonet was a naginata.

“This pink hair Butei! If the rumours are true, then Heaven’s Punishment! Punishment–!”

　Shirayuki’s expression is that of a demon king, and the dolls torso is crunched, crushed, and stabbed repeatedly.

　Wonderful. Shino could only give Shirayuki a round of applause.

　Defeating Kanzaki H. Aria. It is a difficult task that Shino had to admit to herself would be impossible by herself, but perhaps Shirayuki could. Shirayuki surely could make the impossible possible!

“– PUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUNISHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHMEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEENT!!”

　Shirayukis cries echo in the heavens, sounding like a strange birds cry.

“Just by being with Sasaki-sama, the normally dangerous Onee-sama is now even more dangerous…!”

　Hanayuki alone is trembling and with a whisper mutters to herself.

　Shirayuki Hotogi is normally a beautiful Yamato Nadeshko who excels in both the literary and military arts, a model for even maidens. She is a national treasure and a beautiful, even perfect, girl.

　… But if there is a front, there is also a back. And it seems that behind this perfect girl is a mischievous and dangerous Onee-sama. However, to Shino, that is just a generalization, and from Shino’s point of view as well she is just as lovely and perfect when considering that side.

　When Shino thought about it, this is supposed to be an Amica Exam, but all of the exams were… Lessons?

　In the setting sun, after Shirayuki made Shino undergo a number of special training and exams…

“… After relieving her stress Onee-sama looks like she is glowing…”

　As Hanayuki spoke she looked on at Shirayuki with her mouth agape. On Shirayuki’s face is a fresh and sparkling smile.

“Your Butei ability, manners, and learning abilities are wonderful.

　Shirayuki took Shino’s hand in her own with a satisfied expression.

　Konayuki looking on at this…

“… Well, I guess she passes.”

　The sisters were not keen on the idea of their Shirayuki-oneesama to love and adore any woman other than themselves… But seeing Shino’s skill and her matching personalities with Shirayuki, they could not help but admit that it should be fine and they accepted Shino.

　The sun now completely set, Shino is waiting by the torii gate for her ride to come and take her back home.

　After only two days Shino feels a mood of acceptance from the shrine maidens of the Hotogi shrine…

“… Th, thank you very much.”

　Shino’s mind is caught up in an earlier conversation.

　Ever since the beginning…

　To Shino,

“Then, I will give you one more trial…”

　With a gentle and yet serious expression, Shirayuki raised a finger.

　Final exam.

　Whatever it is, with this mood around her, Shino is sure that she will pass… Despite not know what to expect, she is confident she will succeed.

　But.

　Shino… is not sure if she should even be allowed. Can this go on?

“… I’m sorry!”

　Shino interrupted Shirayuki’s words and bows as deeply as she can.

“I have to decline the Amica Contract!”

　Her sudden response shocked the girls around here, clearly seen in the utter confusion and frozen Konayuki and Hanayuki.

　But all throughout this, Shino… Couldn’t look Shirayuki in the face.

　With her head bowed, Shino decided to speak thoroughly and convey everything.

　She explained everything. Why she came here. Why she applied to become Shirayuki’s Amica. What her underlying goal is.

“… I have a dear friend. I want to always be by her side and protect her…! So, really… I just want to become anyone’s Amica in order to form an Amica group with her…!”

　An Amica Group is a system in which Butei Amica’s can form groups together.

　Yes. And so, Shino…

　She wants to become someones Amica… Purely just to create an Amica Group with Akari.

　She is prepared to accept anyone and everyone as her Amica to allow her to reach her goal.

　But.

“But… But… Hotogi-senpai is too good of a person for my selfish goal…”

　Shino continued to speak as tears welled up in her eyes. To Shirayuki, who is silent the entire time.

“I feel as if I am deceiving you this entire time, my feelings of guilt growing and eating me alive…”

　After completing the fun and enjoyable Amica Exam, with her feelings of guilt growing Shino has to say it, even if she really doesn’t want to,

“I am sorry Hotogi-senpai, but I can’t be your Amica…!”

　She spoke.

　Because she had to.

　That is right. Hotogi is a nice and respectable girl. She may be a little strange and eccentric, but that is just because she is being honest with her heart so she is still pure. Shirayuki Hotogi is a national treasure, one who should only be loved and respected, not deceived or taken advantage of… That was Shino’s honest feelings about her.

　Shirayuki Hotogi… is a good person.

　She doesn’t deserve to be deceived and lied to.

　Shino’s creed refuses to allow her to do such a thing… It goes against her sense of justice.

　Shino, burdened with guilt from her crime, albeit attempted, covers her face and burst into tears.

　Shirayuki…

“… You answered my question before I even asked.”

　Spoke softly.

　And gently strokes Shino’s head.

“Eh…?”

　Shirayuki’s earlier question about one more trial.

　Just now when she said “You answered my question before I even asked”…

　The two are related.

　Shino was confused as to what is going on.

“From the moment we met, I knew what was in your heart Shino-san.”

　Shirayuki spoke kindly.

“… sniffle…”

　Shino’s eyes opened wide.

　Shino wants to be with Akari in an Amica Group. With that single-minded goal alone, she sought an Amica Contract.

　Did Shirayuki know all along about Shino’s true feelings and let her take the Amica Exam regardless?

　Shirayuki’s statement just now… It doesn’t feel like a lie.

　Yes… Shino’s feelings from earlier that Shirayuki is an esper psychic… Surely… She knew. From the very beginning.

“Whether you will be honest with me or not… That is the final test.”

“!”

　Surprised, Shino raised her face.

　Shirayuki, staring at Shino’s face… She is smiling.

“And so… You passed. Congratulations, Shino-san.”

“But… But, even if I am like this… You will make me your Amica…?”

　Shirayuki nodded at Shino with a gentle face as tears began to spill from Shino’s eyes.

“To tell someone the truth and be honest to yourself and them… You have courage. That is part of my final test as well.”

　Saying that, Shirayuki made fists with both of her hands,

“– Women must be brave!!”

　Smiling.

　… And so, that is how Shirayuki Hotogi and Shino Sasaki became War Sisters.

　It happened with a gentle smile full of tolerance and acceptance looking at a happy and crying face. Two Amica’s face to face.

　In the setting sun, a Bentley arrived to pick up Shino just as she had expected…

　Reluctant to say goodbye to Shirayuki and the Hotogi miko, Shino sombrely got into the car.

“You are going to keep chasing the person that you are in love with, aren’t you?”

　Shirayuki who seems as if she is going to miss Shino as well gave her a farewell gift as Shino sat in the backseat.

　It’s… The ultra compact camera that Shirayuki had shown earlier that is meant to be inserted into a shoe.

“A woman who is persistent… Is a perfect woman.”

“Yes!” (TL Note: はい “hai” is used here, which like before can be an agreement or an answer to a question. Here it is an agreement.)

　Word by word, Shirayuki imbued Shino with advice, which Shino engraved deep into her heart.

“Love is a supreme and pure feeling! As long as you have love, you can forgive most things!”

　In addition, Shirayuki handed over numerous items into Shino’s hand such as infrared cameras, wiretaps, IC recorders, and more. (Keep it up! Keep it up!) Shino could feel Shirayuki’s inner thoughts in each of the item that she handed over.

　Shino receiving these gifts is full of emotions, her face sparkling more and more with each gift.

“Thank you! Shirayuki-oneesama!”

　Shirayuki, h aving seen Shino cut off any and all hesitation in pursuing her passion, has a radiant expression on her face.

　The Bentley Mulsanne began to move, and Konayuki watching the two girls passionate parting began to wipe her emotional tears away with the cuffs of her sleeves…

　Hanayuki, on the other hand, was merely staring at the 3 girls with a glum expression on her face.

　　§　　　§

　Shino finishes recounting how she and Shirayuki became War Sisters with a sullen look on her face.

　Kirin, after hearing the whole story,

“What… What a wonderful sister…!”

　And her eyes begin to sparkle.

　… However…

　Raika is so shocked that her half-eaten hamburger began to partially fall out of her mouth.

(Wh-, what the hell…)

　Shino had only been given stalker-like assignments that are completely out of line with Butei activities and barely in line with anything Inquesta related… Tonic foods for the one you love… Voyeurism which Raika could barely be persuaded to believe that it could be related to Inquesta activities… Simulations of killing rival love interests, etc…

　That was the entirety of her Amica Exam…

　However, this is Butei High after all. It is an unusual school, where people use shooting guns as a greeting. It was just an unusual senior giving an unusual exam, so maybe it is normal, just… Not that kind of normal.

　Raika tried to convince herself to think that way inside her head using complicated mental gymnastics…

“Haa~~, I’m tired~”

　Shino could hear Akari’s innocent and cute voice as she wandered into the cafeteria.

　Akari’s uniform is ruffled, perhaps because Aria had grabbed and squeezed her from behind, simulating an enemy grappling her. Because of this, however, Akari looks even more than usual like a girl that needs to be protected…

“– Akari-san!”

　Shino locked on and ran towards Akari like a guided missile.

“Are you okay, Akari-san? Let’s have a meal together!”

“Okay. Thank you.”

　As if to support the exhausted Akari, Shino invites her to the table and helps take her there… Supporting her entire body and in close contact the entire time.

　Shino’s body clung unnaturally to Akari’s body, but Akari is so exhausted from her training with Aria that she did not think anything strange of it.

“… Mumumu!?”

　It is here that Kirin senses something.

　Climbing up Raika’s back to widen her field of vision, she put one hand over her eyes like a canopy to let her see easier…

“Is that… A hidden camera!”

　Kirin pointed at Shino’s shoes and spoke silently to Raika.

　Just as Kirin had said, there is a small hole in the toe of Shino’s shoes that seemed to be a micro camera hole.

　Shino casually slid her toe directly under Akari’s skirt between her legs, allowing the camera to see her panties. (TL Note: Akari panties…)

“Sasaki-sama… You are amazing!”

　Guu! Kirin clenches her hand into a first and praises Shino.

　In contrast to Kirin, however, Raika…

(Akari… It seems that you, too, are being chased by a troublesome person…)

　Feeling the presence of Kirin climbing on her back and head, Raika could only sigh and mutter to herself “I feel sorry for you, Akari…”.

AA Bullet 18: Quartet Part 2

　On Saturday, with the Quartet coming up at the beginning of next week, Akari and the others had taken the Shirokan-Takanawa Station on the Tokyo Metro and are visiting Shino’s house for their training camp.

　In front of her chalk white mansion in Shirokanedai…

“Oooh, amazing!”

“It looks like a castle!”

　Raika and Kirin, seeing Shino’s house for the first time, had twinkles in their eyes.

　The bulletproof uniform clad girls had needed pyjamas as they planned on staying overnight, so Akari and Raika had brought sports bags with them while Kirin brought her school backpack.

　Among them,

“Why are you coming…?”

　Akari was looking at the fourth member of the group with a reproachful glance… Out of the girls there, only one was wearing plain civilian clothes, holding a Boston bag. (TL Note: A Boston bag is basically, like, a big purse? Google it if you are curious.)

　It was Nonoka, Akari’s younger sister.

　Akari, who had wanted to spend time alone with her Butei friends and so had said nothing to Nonoka about today, was unhappy that Nonoka was there and wondered if Nonoka had secretly followed her on her own.

“Since my sister was spending so much time out of the house recently, I wanted to check on her and make sure she is okay.”

　Nonoka said, sounding like the older sister out of the two. With her talking like this and Akari sulking, she almost looked like Akari’s guardian.

　However, since Nonoka had no ill intentions in following her… Akari decide to put aside the fact that her sister had followed her and rang the doorbell on the Sasaki mansion.

　Gachaaa… The large doors open with a heavy and deep sounds…

“Sorry to disturb you.” (TL Note: common thing to say in Japan when visiting someones house, regardless of if you are expected or not.)

　While saying that, the group enter into the large entrance hall. Suddenly,

“Welcome everyone!”

　Shino, wearing her sailor uniform, came into the hall to greet everyone.

　Nonoka looked over at Shino and identified her by her long black hair and serious expression.

“Ah, you must be Sasaki Shino-san! I am indebted to you for taking care of my older sister.”

　Nonokw bowed politely to Shino.

　Shino stared at Nonoka, as she raised her smiling face that looked a lot like Akari…

“Si… Sister bowl…!”

　After muttering an unknown term, for a moment, Shino’s face was pure ecstasy.

“…?”

“…?”

“N-, never mind, welcome.”

　Towards the Mamiya sisters who are tilting both of their heads in confusion, Shino quickly tried to cover up what she was saying just earlier.

“Okay, onee-chan. Come here.”

　After greeting Shino, Nonoka placed the Boston bag she was carrying on the marble floor.

　When Akari crouched down next to her,

“Okay, here. Pyjamas and a change of clothes… as well as onee-chan’s pillow. I always have to remind you that if you use a different pillow, you have trouble falling asleep.”

　Nonoka, looking like a proud house wife with a smile on her face, watched as Akari checked the overnight bag that Nonoka had brought for her.

　Boko, and, finally, Akari pulled out a pillow with a chick-print image on the front from the Boston bag…

“You are a reliable and sensible little sister, aren’t you?”

“I can’t believe that she is Akari’s little sister…”

　Kirin and Raika, standing side by side and watching, exchanged their honest impression on the two sisters.

“What do you two mean by that!?”

　Akari, tired of being treated like a little child, angrily turned towards Raika and Kirin.

“Now then, I will go home.”

　Nonoka smiled wryly when she tried to pick up her bag…

　However, she somehow failed to grab her bag.

“Huh?”

　… For a moment, Nonoka had a surprised look on her face.

　Akari, watching this with surprise and concern on her face,

“… Well, I should get going, I can see now that onee-chan is serious about this sleepover and will be okay.”

　Nonoka reached for the handle of her bag, this time grabbing it, and stood up.

　Her expression looked the same as usual.

“Of course? Did you forget who is the older sister?”

　Akari bit her lip, thinking the strange look in Nonoka’s eyes must have been her imagination… But no matter what she told herself, she couldn’t dismiss the image of her face from her mind.

“Ah, onee-chan. While this might be a sleepover, that is no excuse to stay up late at night.”

“I know, I know.”

　While talking back and forth between the two sisters–

　Akari began to push Nonoka out of the lobby, afraid that Nonoka might never stop talking to her unless Akari pushed her out of the house herself.

“Nonoka-san. Please take care of yourself and be careful on your way home.”

　Nonoka smiles and nods to Kirin who was waving at her.

　Among them, Shino,

“… Pillow…!”

　Was the only one not looking at Nonoka. Her eyes were glued to treasure, “Akari’s pillow”, that was sitting half out of the bag that Nonoka brought…!

　After dinner, Akari and the others gathered together in the Sasaki residence’s private theatre room.

　There was a large tv screen on the wall of the room, and some maids were expertly controlling the materials being presented.

　Shino, acting as the moderator of the gathering, was speaking aloud.

“In a Quartet match, our competition and the match style has been decided by Masters. Our match is against Takachiho, and the match style is “Poison”.”

　Next, an illustration of a bee and a spider, both poisonous insects, appeared on the screen.

“All members of team Mamiya or team Takachiho will have a flag with them with either a “bee” or a “spider” drawn on it.”

　Under the illustrations of the bees and spider, four humanoid markers appeared.

　In one of their hands, they held a flag with the mark of their squad drawn on it.

　The Akari team had a bee flag, and the Takachiho team had a spider flag.

“Each team also has a flag that must be protected at all costs, a flag with an “eye” on it.”

　A large flag with an eye in the middle of it were displayed on both sides of the teams.

“The team that touches the other teams eye flag with their own insect flag wins.”

　The winner is whichever team is able to protect their own eye flag from an insect flag while taking out the other persons eye flag first. In other words…

“… If you get stung by a poisonous insect in the eye, you lose, right?”

　At Akari’s words, “That’s right”, Shino nodded.

“Are we team Bee?”

　In response to Raika,

“Uhiii. I hate bees!”

　Kirin screams in a cute and girly manner.

　A rough square map was then displayed on the screen.

“The exam site is the entire 11th Ward of Butei High Island, and you can use anything within said ward. Mamiya team will start at the south end, Takachiho team will start at the north end.”

　Looking at the map of the 11th ward, the starting point for Team Mamiya was inside a park while the starting point for Team Takachiho was inside a construction site.

　In other words, one side starts in a park, and the other will start inside a construction site.

“Those are the basic rules… That’s it.”

　Lowering her pointing stick, Shino finished her basic explanation.

“Simple, isn’t it?”

　Akari seemed a little disappointed that the rules were so simple, while Raika simply say “I guess so”.

　However, Kirin has a serious expression on her face.

　Despite being the youngest person there, it seems that Kirin was capable of seeing through the deep realities of the Quartet that Masters had aimed for when designing “Poison”.

“It is true that Poison seems simple at first… but concealment, combat, retreating, and teamwork… it will test every one of our skills.”

　Hiding the eye flag. Protecting it. Taking it with you as you run away.

　Searching. Attacking. Tailing.

　Teamwork was a requirement for both the defenders and attackers in the exam.

　And, of course, this competition requires weapons.

　When approaching or defending a flag, the two teams combat capabilities and equipment will decide the outcome.

　As if praising Kirin who noticed this fact,

“– That’s right! Rinrin, you really are my student!”

　A bouncy and girly voice burst into the theatre room.

　When Akari and the others turned around, entering the room and guided by the Miyamoto sister maids…

“Riko-oneesama!”

　There was a girl in a sailor suit who seemed to be a senior, and with no warning Kirin jumped at her.

“Let me introduce Riko-oneesama! My ex-Amica, and a second year Inquesta student!”

　The girl that Kirin introduced to everyone was a girl wearing a sweet lolita remodelled uniform that looked similar to Kirin’s, with blonde hair tied up in two twin-tails, one on either side of her head.

　She has a small and cute physique, but her presence was strong.

　Not only was she beautiful, but she has a charm that anyone would fall for at first sight, her body was not just cute but curvy and sexy as well.

　When Riko and Kirin were standing side by side, it looked like two idols sparkling and shining with the spotlight on them.

(Uwaaa… She is so pretty and cute…)

　Akari couldn’t help but look at and admire the two of them,

“…”

　Raika, Kirin’s current Amica, had a face that clearly showed that she was not happy to see Kirin so close and friendly with Riko,

　Completely ignoring the atmosphere of the place,

“A Poison match. How nostalgic.”

　Riko

　Riko pulled Kirin off of her and walked towards the screen.

　Riko had a mysterious charm that simply couldn’t be put into words.

“Fumufumu. So… the enemy team will start at the construction site.”

　Looking at the map with her index finger cutely on her lips, Riko turns her back to Akari and the others as she mutters to herself.

“A Butei must be capable of defending themselves. As a senpai, I cannot protect you just because you are my juniors.”

　Akari and the others couldn’t see her facial expression as she had her back to them, but… They could easily hear her line with a harsh meaning to it.

　But that was for only a moment,

“However, that does not mean that I can’t train you!”

　While looking back with a smile, Riko cutely leaned over with her finger still to her lip.

　And she then did a perfect wink, capable of captivating anyone and everyone regardless of gender.

　Everyone went to the Shino’s garden, the same garden where her and Akari had fought not too long ago. There, with Article 5 in their head (Be swift in action), they immediately started their cleaning.

　Riko, taking on the role of instructor, is keeping a watchful eye on everyone while holding her shinai, a bamboo sword with a ribbon around the brim.

　However, despite the fact that they were supposed to be training for their Quartet… Perhaps it was because of Riko’s bright personality, but there is a somewhat cheerful atmosphere in the garden.

“Shino-chan, your training is going to be focused on fighting the twins.”

　Riko spoke to Shino, who currently was wearing kendo armour.

　Standing opposed to her are the twin Miyamoto sisters who were working as maids at Shino’s house. Taking advantage of the fact that Shino happened to have twin maids working at her house, Riko gave each of them two wooden swords, a total of four between them. It was training that trained Shino in combating two enemies who are in sync, in this case the bobbed hair Yaya and Yuyu

“Shino-sama, I am sorry!”

“Young lady, I am sorry!”

　While apologizing, the Miyamoto sisters took turns hitting her with their wooden swords.

　Shino desperately tried to block the endless blows from the twin maids using her single wooden sword.

“Alright, lets go girls!”

　Riko seemed to be enjoying herself teasing someone as the Miyamoto sisters behind her continued to attack Shino.

　There, Raika and Kirin are undergoing their special training. Although the two were to work as a team, Raika had been ordered by Riko to be blind folded with a cloth.

　Moreover, since she was prohibited to attack back, only defence was available to her.

　Raika was only allowed to guard against Kirin’s attacks in her peekaboo style of boxing, and was using both of her face to protect her face.

　Kirin on the other hand continued to hit Raika with chops and palm blows.

　Her special training…

“Traditionally, the strongest Butei is the defender of the eye flag. For you, even if you are put into a disadvantageous situation, you just have to continue to believe in your comrades and buy them time.”

　Riko, who had appointed Raika as the guardian of the “Eye flag”, spoke to her as she continued doing her special defence training.

　Raika in earnest continued to take Kirin’s relentless attacks and endured it without backing down. This was her training, the longer she could endure Kirin’s attacks, the longer she could defend her flag, and the longer her comrades had to attack.

　Each individual blow from Kirin was light. However, Raika right now was just a punching bag, and receiving dozens if not hundreds so far has become fierce training.

　On the other hand, the attacking Kirin looked to be in pain as well.

　Kirin did not usually do martial arts training, and so was immediately gasping for air, her attacks now were empty, and she had already fallen down once. She was not the king of Butei that is used to fighting for a long time.

“You cannot stop just yet.”

　With a wry smile, Riko moved to a different corner of the garden.

“Akari-rin♥ Are you still doing your best?” (TL Note: a more accurate name is Akkarin.)

　There…

“Wh, wh, why am I the only one doing something like this!?”

　Akari, who had been dragged out of the house after hearing what her training was, is currently straddling a piece of machinery. To be specific, it was a horse riding training machine.

　While watching the teary-eyed Akari as she was thrown around up, down, left, and right,

“Your fine your fine. A Butei who only trains to fight will die an early death.”

　However, Riko couldn’t help but laugh lightly at the sight.

　Riko was an elusive senpai who seemingly did as she wanted. Akari could never tell what she was thinking.

“Bu, but… Kyaa!”

　Akari lost her balance and becha! She fell face first.

　Her nose, which was not very begin to begin with much like the rest of her body, was somehow crushed even smaller.

“Uooh! Ouch. Are you okay~?”

　In front of Riko, who was looking down at Akari to see if she was okay–

　– Akari once again straddled the horse-riding machine.

　Despite being Aria’s Amica for a short time, Akari had inherited a little bit of Aria’s indomitable spirit.

　Or rather, Aria’s first job was to train Akari to have a strong sense of perseverance through a training system that Aria herself devised in which she shunned any weakness or willingness to give up.

　Riko could clearly see this as well…

“Ahaha, what a straightforward girl…”

　While saying things to herself that she normally wouldn’t…

　Her eyes never left Akari, as if she was observing Aria H. Kanzaki herself on the other side of her.

　Meanwhile, Takachiho…

“Hoohohoho! Why? Why are you playing on a horse riding machine!?”

　While watching Akari struggling on her big TV screen in her room, she couldn’t help but bust into laughter.

　The video she is watching is live and is being secretly shot from a building a short distance away from the Sasaki residence. Yuyu and Yaya, the twin Aizawa sisters, are doing reconnaissance and are recording Akari with a telephoto camera, sending the footage via a video call.

　Takachiho, dressed in a loose negligee, was watching Akari and the others training late into the night from her elegant room, which is as spacious as a suite in a five-star hotel.

　Takachio sat down on a bed with a canopy, quenching her thirst with grape juice from a wine glass.

“Well, it is not like I had any intention to lose to these girls anyway. What do you think?”

　In the corner of her room, Fuuma, who was summoned to inspect Takachiho’s enemies, is sitting cross legged.

　Fuuma, who had been given consent by Takachio to answer her question,

“…”

　Fuuma had spotted Riko Mine, one of her senpais, and was silently and earnestly contemplating the meaning of the training regimen that Riko had given them. It was due to Fuuma’s seriousness and strong sense of caution to not let down her guard, even when her enemies look as ridiculous as Akari.

　In the Sasaki residence, there is a large bath that can easily accommodate 10 or 20 people at once. The windows in on the walls are beautiful stained glass, and the hot water did not come out of a faucet but instead spouted out of a sculpture of a lion situation in the middle of the main bath.

　However, despite being in such a beautiful bath… Akari, who unsteadily walks towards the bathtub did not have the time to enjoy such an extravagant experience. Even now, she felt as if her lower body was shaking, making her feel sick.

　Even Shino, was already in the bathtub, somehow looked exhausted.

　But–

　Somehow, Kirin and her former older Amica, Riko, were bright and happy even after all that training.

“It has been a while since we had taken a bath together.”

　Riko was washing Kirin’s hair from behind while Kirin was wearing a shampoo hat, and just after a mischievous smile appeared on Riko’s face she began to tickle Kirin’s armpits.

“Kyaha, onee-sama, you’re tickling me!”

　Raika was looking on… irairaira… annoyed.

　She was patient at first as she watched on, but,

“… Hey!”

　Three minutes was her limit.

“We should not be playing around right now! We will be training tomorrow as well after all. I want to begin resting as soon as I can, so I will be taking Kirin with me. Senpai.”

　Gui. She began pulling Kirin’s arm as she was leaving the bathtub.

　As Riko saw this,

“Awwa, are you jealous~?”

　Riko’s goal was to make Raika jealous, a fact that was made obvious by her grinning and mischievous smile.

“Wh-, whose jealous!?”

　Before she knew it, Raika’s face turned bright red and she began to panic, wondering if or when she had somehow developed a desire to monopolize her cute little Amica.

“Wow! Onee-sama, going crazy over me with jealousy, you are so cute!”

　Raika realized that Kirin must be in on this as well, Riko was her older Amica for a while after all.

“That’s not true!”

　With her face somehow turning even brighter red, Raika could only object with as much seriousness as she could muster right now.

　The Riko and Kirin ex-Amica pair would continue to make fun of Raika, but…

“… Well, this has been fun but it is time for me to head home~♪”

　Riko-senpai suddenly spun on her heels and turned around.

“… Are you really going home already Riko-oneesama?”

　Riko nodded “yes” to Kirin’s question, and then poured hot water over her body from a nearby washbasin.

　Puffing out her nude exposed chest, bushi!

　She then pointed to Akari and the others.

“All that is left is for you to remember Article 6 of the Butei Charter: Think for yourself and act yourself!”

　Leaving those words behind, Riko wrapped herself in a bath towel and left the bathing room.

　　§　　　§

　Later at night, Akari and the others had entered their respective rooms to go to bed.

　Shino’s house has several guest rooms, however despite that it was not possible for everyone to have their own private room… So the Amica sisters Raika and Kirin were sharing a room.

　That room, in which the lights had already been turned off, was still dimly lit by the moonlight.

“…”

　Raika was in her pyjamas, lying on a king-size bed.

　However, she was keeping her back turned to Kirin, who was sitting with her legs to her side, upright on the bed.

　Kirin, wearing a short neckline negligee, was combing her own hair while looking towards Raika’s back with a wry smile on her face… Raika was still sulking about the bath incident from earlier.

“Are you jealous?”

　While touching Raika from behind, despite being younger than Raika Kirin spoke in a voice that sounded like an older sister teasing a boy younger than her,

“You-, you idiot! I am not!”

　Even though Raika’s face was currently so red it looked like she had a sunburn, she was acting as obstinate and defiant as any immature boy.

　　§　　　§

　Shino was restlessly pacing around her room.

　She was awaiting a report from her trusted twin Miyamoto sister maids.

　… wandering, wandering… and then,

“Shino-sama! I got it! I found the same pillow!”

　One of the Miyamoto sisters opened the door and ran in, out of breath.

　In her hand was a pillow with a price tag inside a transparent plastic bag.

　It was the exact same pillow as the one that Akari brought…!

“Here!”

　As the maid handed the pillow to Shino,

“Good job!”

　Plompf! Shino accepted the pillow.

“Akari-chans pillow…! I will take it saying that I am going to have it dry cleaned, but that is fine since I will be giving you this brand new one!)

　Legally, this was indeed a robbery, but to Shino it was fine since she was replacing an old pillow with a new one. In her eyes she was innocent as she had not committed anything bad or sinful, it was a self-evidenced good act really. As the daughter of an armed prosecutor, she was satisfied that there were no issues…

　Imagining her near future, she began to bury her face in the replacement pillow, Shino was the happiest that she had ever been in her life right now.

　　§　　　§

　Unaware of all this, Akari still wearing her uniform…

　Even though it was past midnight, she was alone in the courtyard, continuing her special training on the horse-riding machine.

“… uwa!!”

　She was nearly thrown off, but had managed to hold on and endure the shaking.

　She has gotten a lot better at staying on the machine than when she had first started.

　She was still not sure what the purpose of her training is supposed to be, but Article 1: “Believe in yourself and your comrades”. She would believe in Kirin and her ex-Amica Riko, who is experienced in Quartet matches.

(If I keep doing this tomorrow as well, I will surely be able to master this in time!”

　Akari, with a flame in her eye, suddenly sensed the presence of someone nearby,

“…? Uwa!”

　Because of the distraction, Akari fell off the riding machine.

“Itatata…Huh!” (TL Note: Itatata is basically Japanese “ow”)

　She landed on her nose again. Akari contemplated if it was shrinking by 1mm each time she fell… No, wouldn’t it swell and get bigger…? Thinking this, and holding her nose with her hand,

“What are you doing?”

　Akari heard a familiar anime sounding voice, albeit a bit more withdrawn and confused than normal.

　Akari stood up with newfound energy.

“A-, Aria-senpai!”

　Aria was standing in front of Akari with a paper bag filled to the brim with momoman.

　Aria had apparently just arrived and was currently being guided around the mansion by a maid… However, it would seem that seeing Akari, a Butei, training on a horse-riding machine past midnight, was enough to even stun even the elite Aria.

　And so, Akari told Aria the story of everything that had happened up till now.

“Hmm. Special training…”

　Sitting on her butt on the grass with her knees pulled close to her chest, Akari was eating one of the momoman buns that Aria had given her and was telling Aria about Riko’s special training…

　Aria, listening this, gave a thumbs up to the horse-riding machine to size it up as she looked at it, confused.

“Riko might be an idiot, but she isn’t a normal idiot. There must be something to this training that isn’t immediately visible but is useful in real combat.”

　Despite her initial confusion, Aria looked like she was convinced that there was some meaning to this training.

“Regardless, you are the only one training right now… Why are you working so much harder than everyone else?”

　Aria asking this was looking at her watch with sideways eyes…

　A little embarrassed, Akari hid her face in her knees.

“… Because Takachiho-san… She told me that winning was impossible for me.”

　Akari responded to Aria, remembering the incident in front of the Masters office.

“Aria-senpai told me that that word is forbidden…”

　Akari muttered, as if she was talking to herself…

　Aria shrugged her shoulders and sighed, exasperated with how straight forward her Amica is.

“Mouu, you really are stupidly honest to a fault.” (TL Note: Mouu here is a sound effect, I cannot think of an English equivalent.)

“Bu-, but…”

　To Akari, who was now looking at the ground,

“Well, I don’t hate that kind of person…”

　Aria gave Akari a smile from her heart, and held out a gift for Akari in her hand.

　In Aria’s hand is a charm… Stitched on the front is the word “Victory”.

“I bought this charm for you from a Japanese… church? It was near a lawyers office that I visited earlier today. Since it said “Victory” on it, I thought it would be a perfect good luck charm for you.”

　Akari’s face immediately brightened and she smiled a hear felt smile in response to Aria’s comment, reminded again that Aria truly is a foreigner even if it is not obvious… (TL Note: Aria calls it a Japanese Church, it is in fact a shrine.)

　Receiving the charm with both of her hands,

“Thank you Aria-senpai!”

　She spoke words of gratitude to Aria, words that came from the bottom of her heart.

Bullet 17: Quartet Part 1

　In their classroom during their lunch break, Akari and Shino are eating lunch while chatting again today.

　Raika, who had secretly been eating her lunch during class, was slumped over her desk and had a manga volume as an eye mask… She was just taking a nap.

　The other students as well were resting, eating, and enjoying their break… When suddenly, a loud noise came from classroom 1-A’s door!

　It opened with a bang, and so naturally everyone’s eyes gathered there.

　At the now open door stood a girl with long hair and glasses.

　But she had a pale face, and looked so nervous that it wouldn’t be surprising if she threw up.

　Everyone was on edge, even though they recognized this girl from being Butei High as she was wearing an official bulletproof sailor school uniform.

　It seems that she had opened the door with too much enthusiasm due to being tense. The sound of the door slamming open had terrified her, and she began looking around restlessly with her eyes that were covered by her bangs. And,

“… I-, I’m not good at speaking to people, why was I given this job…”

　She was mumbling and clutching the clipboard to her chest as she walked into the classroom.

　She seems to have something to tell the class, and so she walked over to the podium at the front.

　The girl was standing at the podium in a stiff state, her glasses half hidden by her bangs flashing,

“I-, I am a second year from Connect, Nakasorachi! I am here with a message from Masters!”

　In a voice that was hard to make out despite the class being silent, she spoke to the class.

　However, when she had suddenly shouted “second year”, the class all at once entered an uproar.

　Just like the Defense Academy and the Police Academy, Butei High is rooted in a hierarchical society, not unlike a feudal society.

　Therefore, being rude towards a senior is never tolerated, even if they were slightly timid and seemingly unprofessional.

　The previously relaxed 1-A students suddenly straightened their backs and had all eyes forward on their senior.

　Those who were standing stood at attention, and those who were turned to the side in their chairs turned to face forwards.

　Akari and Shino naturally of course followed suit, even Raika woke up, put away her manga, and straightened her posture.

　Nakasorachi-senpai held a clipboard out in front of her, as if she was reading out an award on it,

“Th-, th-, this class! This class has had a low application rate for the 4v4 Quartet! Please hurry up and apply! That is all!”

　She had merely read out what was written down. Despite being a senior in the Connect Department, who had often done announcements and worked with operators in the field, her speech was full of stutters and hard to understand.

　In any case, when Nakasorachi-senpai finished disseminating what was written down, she placed a bundle of application forms on the podium and left the classroom.

　… Akari grabbed one of the application forms left by her senpai,

“”Quartet”… What is that?”

　Returning to her seat, she spoke to Shino, who is sitting in front of her.

“It is a competition for first year students where everyone participates in a 4v4 style match. Come to think of it, Masters had told me to apply with a group, but that was quite a while ago so I had forgotten all about it…”

“Huh… It seems that even interns can be included in the team selection. Interesting.”

　Raika, who was also looking at an application form, joined in on their conversation.

　It seemed that Raika couldn’t say what she really wanted to say since she was too embarrassed, so Akari decided to say it for her.

“Then, we should all apply together with Kirin-chan.”

　When Akari said what Raika had wanted to say,

“Sounds good!”

“Well, we do need 4 people after all.”

　Shino and Raika agreed with her.

“Then its decided~! Ehehe~.”

　With a bright smile on her face, Akari filled out the application form with the names of 4 of her best friends.

　Taking this for granted, she did not think too much about what this meant or would mean.

　– A few days later, the schedule for the 4v4 Quartet matchup was posted on the bulletin board in front of the Masters department.

　The battle table and the teams were decided upon by Masters based on the various teams that students applied with.

　Each team only had one match, and the result of said match is subject to “evaluation” from Masters.

　This evaluation is extremely important for the involved students, and can affect both their credits and Butei rank.

　Much like in a normal highschool, credits are given to students throughout the year and necessary to move up a grade or ultimately graduate.

　Furthermore, a Butei rank can impact a Butei’s income. Rank is decided upon without distinction between student and professional Butei, and available jobs for a Butei can vary greatly on rank.

　Because of this importance, the bulletin board that Akari and the others came to was crowded with other first year students who had come to see the 4v4 Quartet matchup schedule.

　Somehow Akari managed to squeeze herself close to the bulletin board, and when Akari found her name…

“Round 9: Team Mamiya vs. Team Takachiho.”

　The opponent was team… “Takachiho”.

“Takachiho Urara… She is an A-rank in the Assault Department.”

“Indeed, if I remember correctly she is the Head of Class C.”

　Akari did not know who she is, but Raika and Shino had both heard of her.

　Judging from their facial expressions, she seems to be a fairly well known student.

　As an explanation, at Butei High “Head” is a term for “Class President”.

“CVR had actually scouted her once before… She is a very popular beauty among the M-attribute boys.”

　Wrapping both arms around Raika’s arm and holding a crepe in one hand, Kirin divulged even more information on Takachiho.

　Kirin kept wrapping her arms around Raika no matter how many times Raika shook her off, so Raika had gotten used to it now or at the very least stopped shaking her off.

“… M-attribute?”

　When Akari tilted her head at the unfamiliar word, a response came from behind.

“– Yuyu, Yaya, laugh.”

　Suddenly, Akari heard a strange order.

　Turning around,

“Hohohohohoho!”

　A blond female student with a raised voice that hit Akari’s ears like an ultrasonic wave with a lace fringed fan over her mouth,

“”Hohohohoho.””

　Standing on either side of her were twins with bobbed hair who were both laughing in sync.

　Akari did not understand why, but for some reason all three of them were laughing at Akari and her friends. However, their laugh was the kind of laugh that made people think “Oh, people actually laugh like that?”, a laugh that most people would think only queens laugh like.

　The three of them continued to laugh like that for a while, while Akari and the others just stared in confusion at this sudden turn of events…

“Yuyu, Yaya, stop!”

　When the blond girl in the centre closed her fan with a snap, the twins behind her stopped laughing as well.

　The blond haired female student, who was showing off the dignity of a queen, looked at Akari and the others as if she was evaluating them,

“You seem like unworthy opponents… I guess my fathers donation to Butei High was effective.”

　She spoke high handed in a voice that was not cowardly or thoughtful of what others might think.

　However, she had said “opponent”, and wore an armband that represented her as Class President.

　In other words, this must be Urara Takachiho, Akari’s competition in the 4v4.

　She was brazenly confident, walking around with a girl on either side of her as if they were her cronies, and she seemed to be a very skilled Butei.

　First of all, Akari’s attention was drawn to her height. She is about 160cm’s tall. (TL Note: 5 foot 2.)

　Kirin had said that Takachiho was scouted by CVR, a specialized department at Butei High that instructs students in the art of honey potting and only allows the most beautiful and cute girls to join, meaning that Takachiho is a recognized impeccable beauty. Her overall impression is harsh, but that is purely a positive when combined with her western-style make-up and crimson rouge lipstick.

　At Butei High, students are allowed to remodel their uniform “as long as it retains its original form”, and Takachiho had remodelled hers to make it look like a dress. She has bulging puff sleeves around her upper arms, a long skirt that gracefully spreads out around her, and a combination of black sights and lace-up boots.

　Everything she has assembled to wear is something that clearly she has chosen herself. Such is the way of girls.

　Takachiho’s sneering gaze… It seems as if she had quickly and easily seen through the weakest of Akari’s party and set her sights on Kirin who was by Raika’s side.

“Oh my. They even have an intern, one who looks like they wont be able to do much.”

　Then, as if she was teasing her, she tickled Kirin’s cheek with the tip of her fan.

　Raika, who was now Kirin’s Amica,

“It can’t be helped, she is my Amica after all.”

　Takachiho, in response to Raika who was protecting Kirin…

“Well, what are you planning on using a CVR member as an Amica for? Hmm?”

　Takachiho looked at Raika, with her face as if she was purposefully saying something suggestive to provoke Raika and Kirin.

　That… Seemed to be the last thing that Raika had wanted to hear, and as if she was screaming Kyaaa!, Raika’s face turned bright red.

　Whether someone is setting up a trap, planning a counter, seeing how her opponents react, or simply making an excuse for legitimate self-defense, “provocation” is a technique that gets your opponent to make the first move.

　Takachiho clearly was well trained in that art. She could tell right away what Raika, the most easily provoked person here, didn’t want to hear, and set her off within seconds.

“If you want to fight, don’t get angry when I smear your face in the mud!”

　Raika, who was getting angry after being teased over her newly formed War Sisters relationship began to shake in anger and threw a fist at Takachiho–

“–!!”

　However, it never reached her.

　Someone had managed to stop Raika from behind her.

　An armlock… This specific one being a Standing Hammerlock.

　Raika twisted her head to look behind her, and the tip of a knive – a Kunai to be specific – was placed against her cheek.

　The girl had black hair tied up in a ponytail much like Raika, but was wearing a mask that hid her mouth and lower face.

　Akari recognized this girl.

“Fuuma, Hina…!”

　At the same time that Akari recognized this girl, Rika also mentioned her name.

“Raika-dono. Please do not act out.”

　Raika was not the only student in the first year that was recognized for her strength. Many strong students existed besides her, and outside Assault at that. Hina Fuuma, from Lezzad and dressed like a ninja–

　Although she had done a surprise attack, was able to neutralize Raika with an elite level restraint technique.

“That is indeed Hina Fuuma. I hired her since she seemed to be useful, and will be working with me under contract until the end of the Quartet.”

　Takachiho showed a satisfied and smug smile as she explained what was going on.

　At Butei High–

　Students are not prohibited from paying students to hire them for helping during examinations.

　Rather, even among students, it is frowned upon to help anyone for free.

　Unlike the Police and JSDF, Butei is a private, not public, business. Thus it is a policy to have students acquire a habit of working for pay from an early age.

　Raika naturally understood that as well.

“… Well, Butei is a business driven by money. I understand that.”

　Her expressions seemed to express that she has surrendered.

　However. While Raika had admitted that “Butei is a business driven by money”, there is another habit that Butei follow as well… “Surprise attacks, unexpected attacks, and fake surrenders are an art”. Something that Raika sought to remind Fuuma.

“– That is what you would expect me to say!”

　Raika suddenly changed her opinion and, gari!

　She bit into the Kunai that Fuuma was holding up to her cheek.

　Suddenly twisting her neck and forcibly snatching her Kunai from her hand, Raika suddenly jerked her lower body, unleashing a right high kick without regard for her short skirt!

　Her pinned arm was still locked, however the limited motion she had was enough.

　That sharp and powerful leg hit the side of Takachiho’s head — Gashii!

　Before her feet could make contact, something blocked it.

　Takachiho herself blocked it with her fan.

　Apparently, Takachiho was not just a smug foolish general who sat cross-legged as their subordinates did everything for them.

　This was obvious to see now, she had managed to intercept a kick from Raika, who excels in the martial arts, without any gimmicks or issues. On top of that there was no movement in her long remodelled skirt, but the odds of her somehow having taken steps to counteract the impact through footwork was high.

　Takachiho, using her right hand and with a cool expression on her face, uses her fan and wrist to lock Raika’s ankle from moving.

　Against Raika who was locked in place by Fuuma’s right arm from behind and her right leg by Takachiho…

　– Fuuma and Takachiho used a highly skilled combination attack to unleash a rotating throw on Raika’s body to the right. With the two girls working together, doga!

　Raika slammed into the ground on her face.

“Oneesama!”

“Raika!”

　Kirin and Akari called out to her, but there was no response.

　She wasn’t acting this time. She was either too weak to move or fainted.

“You said that you would rub my face in the mud… But yours looks much better.”

　Kusukusu, now, Takachiho was mockingly laughing at Raika.

　On top of that, Akari and the others–

　–They couldn’t just retreat.

　Takachiho had picked a fight with them right in front of Masters department, a location that was bound to attract a lot of attention. Running away from a fight that was brought to you was a dishonourable and shameful thing to do at Butei High.

　And, more than anything else now, they had to defeat Takachiho and Fuuma to avenge Raika.

　Even girls at Butei High cannot just let themselves get beaten.

“– Onee-sama! … How dare you!!”

　Kirin, who had her Amica beaten soundly in battle, fired a palm strike at Fuuma, but…

　Kirin wasn’t like Fuuma, she was from CVR where combat training wasn’t compulsory, and moreover was an intern in junior high who had thrown a punch purely out of anger. Her palm was easily repulsed.

　Her attack was completely ineffective… The difference in combat between her and Fuuma was that wide of a gap.

“… Just kidding♪”

　Kirin, who was now flustered at her ineffectiveness and smiling wryly,

　Was now trying to get Fuuma to drop her guard and forgive Kirin by doing a “cute girl blinking routine”, but–

　Fuuma was cold hearted, paan!

　Slapped both of Kirin’s ears at the same time as if she was pinching her head.

　The impact caused her eyes to roll back into her head and she dropped her half eaten crepe to the ground, falling on top of Raika.

“Kirin-chan!”

　The technique is called a “eardrum rupture”. It is a dangerous technique that Fuuma occasionally uses that disrupts the semicircular ear canals and defeats her opponent. In actual combat, as the name suggests, it can actually rupture the eardrum.

　Knowing this potential outcome, Akari goes to check on Kirin’s injuries, but before she even could,

“Eh…?”

　Both of her arms were grabbed from her left and right by Takachiho’s subordinate twins, Yuyu and Yaya.

　The twins were in perfect harmony with each other, and once they lifted Akari from both her left and right arm–

　They threw her into a nearby trash can.

“Kyaa!”

　Akari’s landed butt first into the trashcan and was stuck in it, making it look like she was sitting on the trashcan. She was completely unable to get herself out.

　This had not happened by chance. This was a restraint method called the “Box of Laughter” that had originated in Italy. When a person lands butt first in a large can-like object, either on purpose or accidentally, they are unable to get out by themselves. Looking at her like this, Yuyu and Yaya looked proud of their work.

　They looked at Akari in her embarrassing appearance, unable to move on her own.

　One of the twins threw the crepe that Kirin had dropped at her.

　–Becha.

　The crepe landed on Akari’s head, and her head became stick with cream and pieces crepe dough.

“Iyaa~! What is–!”

　Akari couldn’t help but tear up at the humiliating situation that she had ended up in.

“Akari-san!”

　Shino panicked and rushed to rescue her, but–

“Shino Sasaki… Your father is an armed prosecutor, correct?”

　When Takachiho’s words hit her back just as she turned, she stopped moving.

　Shino wanted to save Akari as soon as possible, but in doing so would involve her turning her back on Takachiho, Fuuma, Yuyu, and Yaya, allowing an opening.

　Also, it seemed unnatural, odd even, for Takachiho to suddenly bring up her family situation,

“… What do you mean by bringing that up?”

　Shino put her hand on her sabre and turned towards Takachiho.

　Takachiho responded to Shino’s angry gaze with a cool and collected face…

“Don’t our fathers have a dog-monkey relationship in the courts?”

　Takachiho spoke.

　At those words, Shino’s eyes opened wide.

“… I just remembered.”

　Shino and Takachiho glared at each other for a while.

“… armed lawyers, the Takachiho clan. From Tottori.”

　To Shino, who just recalled the name Takachiho and their legacy, Takachiho,

“There was no need to say we are from Tottori given the situation we are in!!”

　She seems to have a habit of speaking in her hometown dialect when she gets excited or embarrassed, and so responded in the Inaka dialect.

　Takachiho, who suddenly noticed the dialect that she unconsciously spoke in…

“… ~Ohon” (TL Note: Sound for clearing throat basically.)

　She blushed, cleared her throat, and immediately returned to her original pompous demeanour.

　She then looked at Akari and the others,

“– A Quartet group is mean to be built with strategy and individual balance in mind. But you girls are just nothing but friends.”

　Seeing clearly through them, she spoke with full confidence.

“It is impossible for you to win against us.”

　Takachiho’s words…

　They were persuasive.

　Aside from her overbearing words, Takachiho’s ability as a leader is excellent as is her individual combat ability.

　Fuuma, who had taken out Takachiho herself is a formidable opponent as well.

　In addition, the Yuyu and Yaya twin sisters on either side of Takachiho had a teamwork and combination compatibility unique only to twins.

　But.

　No matter how touch Takachiho’s team might seem,

“Why does that make it impossible to win~!? Or rather, so what if we are good friends!”

　On top of the ridicule that Akari was facing, Akari herself was not the kind of person who could keep silent after having the taboo word of “impossible” forced onto her, a word that Aria herself had forbidden.

　While glaring at Takachiho, gassha, gassha! She expressed her anger by violently shaking the trashchan to the point that it started to jump.

“That’s right! Akari-san and I are good friends!”

　Shino agreed with her, although the way that she agreed did not line up with Takachiho’s statement.

　There–

“Hey! What do you think you are doing in front of the Masters department!”

　From the other side of the students who were watching the fight, Aria appeared in her gym clothes with a round-neck shirt and shorts, seeming to have just finished a physical education class.

　–To the Aria, who was severely admonishing everyone,

“…!”

　For a moment, Takachiho made a complicated expression.

　But immediately, she snorted and turned her back,

“Then, please look forward to our upcoming performance.”

　And so, leaving Akari and the others behind, she calmly left as if nothing happened at all.

　After a while, Shino had managed to rescue Akari from the trash can, and was washing herself in the Assault Department’s shower room.

　There was also the figure of Kirin and Raika with her nearby.

“Uhh…”

　Kirin was still dealing with the disorientation from the damage that Fuuma had done to both of her ears.

　Her eardrums would end up being fine with time and she could still hear, however she was still dizzy.

　Even after taking a shower, it seemed that she was unable to wrap a bath towel around her body…

“Um, hey. Are you really okay?”

　Raika spoke in a caring tone to Kirin.

　Raika had heard from Shino that Kirin had attempted to take revenge on Raika’s behalf and that is why she got hurt… Kirin wondered, “is that why she is being so kind to me?”.

　Aria, who was looking sideways at Kirin,

“Your semicircular canal was injured. You need to sit down and rest for now.”

　She spoke to Kirin from her own partitioned shower stall.

　In response to Aria, “Okay…”, and as Akari watched as Raika took Kirin to a nearby bench…

“It only took 1 minute for all of us to be knocked out…”

　Akari could hear Shino’s depressed voice in the shower next to her.

　The fight against Takachiho was a crushing defeat for Akari and the others.

　It was an undeniable fact.

　But for Akari,

“But! Hiring allies with money is cheating!”

　Her anger and dissatisfaction to Takachiho was evident to all, especially since she had hired an excellent pawn to use, Fuuma, using the power of money.

　For Akari, comrades are meant to be friends.

　A true companion is one who is bound by friendship in your everyday life.

　But–

“Would that be your excuse in the afterlife if you were killed by a mercenary?”

　As if dismissing Akari’s opinion, Aria sighed as she began to dry her hair with a bath towel.

　Aria’s words… They were undeniably true.

　In the first place, a Butei is someone that anyone can hire as long as they have the money.

　Even Akari, who is a Butei albeit a new one, can understand that in her head. But…

　Emotionally, she could not accept it nor admit it as truth.

“Aria-senpai… but, but…”

　Poroporo, Akari stuck her face outside her shower stall while crying.

　Aria who saw her crying face…

　She hadn’t meant to hurt Akari more right after she lost her fight.

“Hey, don’t cry.”

　Aria began to pat and stroke Akari’s head, trying her best to comfort her.

　Much like Raika had done earlier, most Amica’s have a habit of being kind to their younger Amica.

　However… Shino was being strangely hostile towards Aria during all this, glaring at her with an openly hostile face.

　In the changing part of the shower room, Akari put on her bullet proof uniform and her underwear.

　After a short rest, Kirin’s complexion improved. She was now sitting upright on a chair and using a hair dryer to dry her long hair.

　Even so, Raika looked on at her worried… Drinking milk coffee, she was standing nearby and watching over Kirin.

　She had hated the idea before of being an Amica, but not only is she now an Amica, but she is an overly protective one.

　Aria had finished changing into her clothes and tied her hair into twintails, and then looked over at her juniors who seemed to want advice on how to win the Quartet against Takachiho and her team.

　It isn’t unusual for the older War Sister to give advice to her younger sisters during an exam, but…

“… While I want to help you with this exam, I am a transfer student, and so I have never taken this exam. As well, I am busy this Saturday and Sunday so I have no time to help train you.”

　Aria herself had not actually even heard of this exam until Akari herself told her about.

　Aria, however, did have an idea,

“Kirin, why don’t you ask your previous Amica about the exam?”

　Aria made a good suggestion, and when Kirin heard it,

“– That’s right! I’m sure Riko-oneesama will help train us!”

　She seemed to have suddenly gained a burst of energy, and pulled out her cellphone that was decorated with rhinestones.

“Now that that is decided, we should rent a training camp facility for us to use while training!”

　Kirin triumphantly began to browse the Butei High internet, but…

“– No way.”

　Raika, who had anticipated this outcome had also accessed the internet from her own phone and shook her head.

“All of Butei High’s training camp facilities have been rented, and they were all rented under Takachiho’s name.”

“All of them were rented out…!? Wha-, what an absurdly rich person…”

　Akari, who had been drinking milk through a strat, opened her mouth in utter disbelief.

　But, Akari knew, that that is something that Takachiho would do.

　It is the same logic as is the case for her hiring Fuuma. In the Butei profession, money is king, and using money to win something is not something to criticize at all. The rich have a way to fight unique only to them.

　– In important and critical situations like subjugation, rescue, and a life or death fight, a Butei is willing to stoop to any level to win. Another big difference between Butei and JSDF.

　That is why, despite the odds of them knowing what Takachiho is doing, Butei high is knowingly overlooking her “borrowing” all the training camp facilities. As for Akari and the others, this is a precariously difficult situation.

　However, in the middle of this gloomy atmosphere,

“In that case, we can use my house as the location for our training camp! I refuse to lose to the Takachiho family!”

　Shino, drinking the same milk as Akari, made a sudden but resolute declaration.

“Eh!? Is that okay!? Are you sure!?”

　Shino’s house was indeed very spacious and had a large garden perfect for training.

　It would be very useful if they could use her house.

“If it’s Shino-chan’s house, that is perfect!”

“Wow, you really are a great friend.”

“I am looking forward to seeing Sasaki-sama’s house.”

　Akari and the others are overjoyed at the offer, while…

“… I did it! A natural and great opportunity to get Akari-chan to stay at my house…!”

　Shino, on the other hand, has an evil expression on her face, and is currently muttering dangerous and suspicious words to herself…

Aria the Scarlet Ammo AA VOL2: Bullet 14: Raika Hino Part 1

TL NOTE: YES THIS SAYS BULLET 14, NO THAT IS NOT A MISTAKE, THIS IS CH 1 OF VOL2 OF ARIA THE SCARLET AMMO AA.

　–Before starting classes on a certain day.

　While Akari and Shino were preparing for lessons in the classroom, from the corridor…

“Please make Kirin your Amica-!”

　Akari heard a young voice.

　It was a lovely voice, full of energy, childish and pure.

　In addition to her high-pitched anime like voice, the girl in question has a habit of referring to herself by name, making her voice even easier to recognize.

　It was the middle school girl that Akari had helped rescue the other day.

　Shima Kirin.

“…”

　A pouting Raika returned to class 1-A, wearing Kirin on her back like a backpack. Kirin herself was wearing a remodelled uniform that has frills like a dolls dress and has a giraffe on her back…

　Kirin herself looks like an elementary school student, while Raika was tall like a model, so their current relationship and situation seemed oddly fitting despite the small age difference.

　However, only Kirin is happy about the persistent physical contact, Raika herself seems to be troubled by it.

　Raika was so troubled by this in fact, that she did not bother putting a hand behind her to help support Kirin. Kirin was unilaterally and wholeheartedly the only one happy that she was on Raika’s back.

“… What are you two doing?”

　Akari asked, with a bit of confusion,

“That middle schooler we rescued the other day just latched onto me and won’t let go.”

　Raika told Akari with a face that truly showed just how overwhelmed and disadvantaged she is.

“Onee-sama-♥” (TL Note: Onee-sama means big sis. However, because of the implications onee-sama has when compared to big sis, I will use Onee-sama as it is more accurate.)

　Contrary to Raika’s shy face–

　Kirin, who was resting her entire body on Raika’s back, looked like a kitten that had become attached to its new owner.

　Incidentally, Kirin was even smaller than Akari. Akari, who has a complex because of her short height, can accurately and quickly measure other peoples height, and so placed Kirin at around 135cm. However, despite this fact, Kirin’s breasts were noticeably larger than hers, reminding her once again that reality is quite cruel.

　Shino, closely watching the innocent looking Kirin’s chest clinging to Raika’s back,

“Such a beautiful sight so early in the morning…”

　She mumbled such things under her breath with a truly bright smile on her face for some reason.

　Meanwhile, Kirin who continued to exude her uncontrollable happiness,

“Funfunfun! Onee-sama, you smell so good!” (TL Note: Funfunfun in this context is Kirin sniffing.)

　Burying her face in Raika’s ponytail, Kirin began to sniffer Raika’s hair. Because of her small size and innocence, Kirin just looked like a kitten playing in Raika’s hair.

　Raika, who was on the receiving end of that against her will,

“Ahh-! You pervert! Stop!”

　Kirin who was getting scolded,

“Yes sir!”

　Kirin gave a smile on the level of an angel. Kirin’s confidence and her smile in response to Raika… It gave off the illusion that Raika, who was the one scolding Kirin, should instead get scolded.

“Mo~~ You aren’t listening at all!”

　Raika began to violently swing her arms, trying to knock Kirin off her back.

　Suddenly, her elbow…!

“!”

　Raika used an elbow strike on Kirin, a technique taught in Assault to use against those grabbing you from behind– Perhaps Raika only used it out of habit, but regardless it struck Kirin’s small body.

“!”

　In front of Akari and Shino, from behind Raika’s back – Fuasa.

　With a light sound, Kirin fell to the ground.

“Kirin-chan! Are you okay!?”

　Akari panicked and leaped towards Kirin who was still lying on her back.

　The elbow strike from Raika must have impacted Kirin’s stomach or liver, as Kirin’s eyes were rolled back into her head and it looked like she blacked out.

　While Raika might have hit Kirin quite hard, kicking and punching between students at Butei High really about as serious as a verbal dispute at a normal school. — That said however, the equivalent of a fistfight at a regular school is a gunfight at Butei High. Since Butei High is such a violent school, the surrounding students thought nothing of the fight between Raika and Kirin.

　… But, however…

　Butei Charter Article 3: “Be Strong. But Before That, Be Right.”.

　It goes against Article 3 for an honours student from the Assault Department to fight with a younger junior who is not even in a program that specializes in combat.

“That was too much for someone who is just a junior high student, Raika-san.”

　Shino, while helping Akari care for Kirin, chided Raika.

　… Although Kirin that was following her was a nuisance, and the elbow hit itself was unintentional and just reflexive, not to mention that Raika never intended to hit Kirin in a vital spot… Raika was embarrassed by what happened,

“… Um, yeah…”

　Hesitating and worriedly, Raika walked over to Kirin.

　When Raika got near, pachi~.

　In fact actually, Kirin seemed to have no injury at all, and she opened her eyes with their long, well groomed eyelashes, on par with an idol.

　And then, koron~.

　Standing up like Daruma-san, and in front of Raika’s long, beautiful legs… Which above that is her skirt… peron.

　She flipped it up.

“Ahhh, black lace! Onee-san, that is so cool!”

　Raika, who was just as deceived as Akari and Shino by Kirin pretending to have fainted, had had her all black lace panties seen by all three girls.

“!”

　Her voice was muffled and her face instantly turned red… It was obvious to all that she was angry.

　However…

　Kirin was already running away from Classroom 1-A.

　With Raika’s roar and the chime of the school bell resounding at the same time–

　Kirin, jumping up and down like a bouncy ball in the corridor,

“Onee-sama Raika! Please take care of Kirin as your Amica!”

　From behind the cover of a door, Kirin sent a remarkably cute wink to Raika who she had just been toying with, along with a one handed salute with her small hand.

　There are two types of classes that students can take at Butei High: general subjects and specialized subjects.

　Students take general subjects, curriculum that is the same as a regular high schools curriculum, and specialized subjects related to Butei activities.

　Students typically attend general subject classes from the 1st to 4th period, and after their lunch break they move to their specialized department buildings after 5th period to attend their specialized subjects, such as Assault, Inquesta, and Connect to name a few. (TL Note: I don’t know how it is in other countries, but lunch typically counts as a period, hence the “after 5th period” as lunch is the 5th period).

　Because of that, lunch break at Butei High was a little longer than other schools, and that day Akari and Shino were having a leisurely lunch together on a bench underneath a connecting corridor.

　Naturally, their topic of conversation today was on Kirin and Raika.

“Kirin-chan is only a Junior High student… In a sense, she is an amazing girl to be able to take advantage of Raika like that.”

　Akari, who laid her bento box on her lap, was talking about Kirin faking falling unconscious, which she fell for as well.

　Be it faking ones death or faking being hit by bullets… Faking ones injury or death may seem easy, but in fact, requires a high level of skill to trick a skilled Butei.

　Being skilled is a natural expectation of course, if you are pretending to be dead or knocked out, and are caught faking it, you won’t be able to fight back and risk being injured or outright killed. Naturally at Butei High, the curriculum for Lezzad and CVR teach those skills, but if you do not already have talent in acting they do not bother teaching you those skills because of the risks involved.

　But this morning, when Kirin faked her fainting, that was clearly something she had trained in extensively. It was nothing short of a sign of her brilliance that she was ably to deceive all three of those Butei High students; Raika, Akari, and Shino, all at once.

“Isn’t she? It would be great if Raika could become an Amica’s older sister in her first year. If I remember correctly, last years first year president also had a younger sister Amica in her first year…”

　Shino agreed with Akari as she ate her sandwich that she brought in a basket.

　Butei High is a vocational high school as defined by the Ministry of Education… In other words, despite being a high school, it can accept Junior High students through an intern system.

　So, it is possible, albeit rare, for juniors to be enrolled as a first year in high school.

　Because of that, it is rare for a first year Butei to have a younger brother/sister Amica, having one is a sign of an exemplary and outstanding student.

　Akari also remembered the worried face that Raika had made for a moment when Kirin had collapsed to the ground earlier in the classroom,

“… I get the feeling that… Raika doesn’t actually hate that girl either.”

　As Akari was talking to Shino about her earlier observation…

　A voice could be heard from the corridor overhead.

“Come come any closer!”

“Onee-sama, I will follow you anywhere to become your Amica–“

　Akari and Shino could easily tell who it was just from their voice. It was Raika and Kirin. (TL Note: I think their might be a Japanese saying here for the first sentence involving rumours and shadows. Something like “Rumours cast long shadows”.)

　Raika was clearly angry while Kirin was pleading with her.

　It was easy to imagine, well obvious to imagine, that currently Raika was being chased around by Kirin.

　With a wry smile, Akari looked up towards the corridor…

　Something suddenly unexpected happened.

　Raika, who had been caught by Kirin,

“Douer-ya!”

　She threw Kirin off her back as she tried to jump on her.

　Kirin’s small body was easily thrown over the railing and out of the connecting corridor–

“Hey!”

“Kyaa!”

　Akari and Shino rushed off of the benches they were sitting on.

　Just before Kirin hit the ground from being thrown off of the connecting corridor that is as high as the second floor — docha!

　Akari managed to catch her.

　Shino, who was on the ground close to Akari and Kirin, had managed to get entangled with the legs of her black stockings and fell.

　Despite being worried about Shino, Akari decided to prioritize Kirin.

　At Butei high, where Butei are taught the art of capturing criminals and everything involved with it, it is common for Butei to have to fight atop tall buildings and receive training in that. For a Butei, a fall from 2 to 3 floors is the same as jumping down a short flight of stairs for the average person. However, Kirin is just a normal cute girl in the CVR department, which specializes in honey pot techniques and flirting, not combat. It was hard for Akari to not be worried about her current condition.

“A-Are you okay!? Do you have any injuries!?”

　Akari asked Kirin who she was holding in her arms.

　But–

　Gaba.

　Kirin stood up as if nothing had happened.

　And, as if in response to Akari,

“… Raika Onee-sama is as distant and magnificent as a star…!”

　With a level of skill that would put theatre kids to shame, she looked up at the connecting corridor like a tragic heroine.

　Raika was at the centre of her gaze. After confirming that Kirin was safe, she turned around and left the corridor.

“Despite everything, I cannot get rid of this feeling of wanting to be her Amica…”

　In response to Kirin’s monologue, her eyes sparkling,

“?”

　Akari had a blank, confused face.

　Somehow, Akari got the feeling that Kirin knew that Akari was underneath her, and had let herself been thrown by Raika….

“owow…”

　… On the other hand, Shino, who had landed on her back, had finally gotten up.

　On her head was Kirin’s stuffed animal that she always carried around.

“… Why is your stuffed toy so heavy?”

　Shino had taken it off her head. Despite her words, it seemed like she wasn’t injured in the slightest.

　Akari was relieved and gave Shino a sideways glance…

“–Mamiya-sama!”

　Gaba, Kirin approached Akari as if to hug her.

　It seems like she wants to continue that little skit that Akari assumed had just ended.

“Mamiya-san, surely you understand just how great Raika is!?”

　Grabbing both of Akari’s hands with her own, Kirin pulled Akari’s face closer to her own and looked up at her with an upward glance.

“H-, huh?”

　Kirin made a heartfelt appeal to the now bewildered Akari…

　Suddenly Shino, carrying Kirin’s giraffe toy by its neck, came charging in,

“Stay away from Akari-chan-!”

　As Shino began peeling Kirin off of Akari, Akari could only watch on, wondering at this point “what is even going on?”.

　In the Assault Training Area, commonly referred to as the “Black Gymnasium” by students of the Assault Department,

“Teyaaaaaa!”

　Raika, dressed in her school uniform, had decided to get some payback on one of the boys in her class.

　The boy in question who was fighting back set up the foot technique for a Judo throw called Kouchigari,

“Orya!”

　Raika effortless shrugged it off, and countered with a signature technique of her own, leading her counter into an ippon shoulder flip.

　Dotan! And she slammed him into the wooden floor.

　The Assault Department, which can be said is the star of the various specialized departments at Butei High, practices actual combat and not simulated, with students wearing their bulletproof uniform. In most cases, weight differences and gender differences are irrelevant and ignored. This was done as students when apprehending criminals cannot simply say “I am a girl, so can you please take it easy on me?” or “I don’t fight people who are shorter/taller/heavier/lighter than myself.”.

“–Alright. Excellent.”

　The teacher in charge of the Assault Department and its classes is Ranbyou-sensei.

　A female teacher from Hong Kong, her surname is Ryan and her first name is Byou, leading to students calling her Ranbyou. (TL Note: Just a quick and interesting thing to note, leopard in Japanese is Hyo, which sounds similar to Byou.)

　She is a strong, young, and beautiful girl who can speak Japanese fluently, and takes care of her students, but… because of her ferocious if not destructive personality, she is often at the centre of large incident, and so frequently moves from one Butei school to another throughout Asia. She originally was from Hong Kong, and is the only daughter of a mafia boss. Apparently she was famous throughout her childhood for having a violent streak.

　Ranbyou-sensei though…

　She was far stronger than most men, and seemed to be particular fond of Raika, a girl who resembled herself.

　Around Raika were a lot of boys from her previous matches, their eyes still rolled back into their head after being thrown to the ground by her.

　Akari, who was pretending to be taking a break, was watching the other students doing their hand-to-band combat training.

　… Despite being in the middle of class, Akari could hardly concentrate on it.

　Akari was thinking about Kirin.

　She admired her and her talent as a Butei, but despite that fact she felt oddly sympathetic towards her.

(She reminds me of when I was chasing after Aria-senpai, so I know how she feels…)

　The image of Kirin desperately chasing after Raika, clinging to her back in hopes of becoming her Amica…

　In her mind, Akari overlapped Kirin with herself

　Suddenly, Akari realized.

(… Kirin-chan, earlier, did you ask me that question hoping that I would help you…?)

　If so, Kirin is an even smarter girl than Akari originally thought.

　Since her target is Raika… It is possible that she investigated the people around her to find those who would cooperate with her. If so… that investigation ability and the skill to execute it far surpasses that of the average Junior High student.

　Kirin Shima might look like an innocent and energetic young girl, really an angel, but in reality she might be quite the strategist.

　As a Butei, she does not excel in combat but scouting instead.

　The ability to look up people and their relationships, preparing and laying out the groundwork for your operation, and the ability to ultimately carry out your mission is an essential skill for any Butei.

　Akari could only imagine that as a Butei, she still has a lot to learn from Kirin.

(I will do whatever I can to help you, Kirin.)

　Akari was not so foolish as to think that since she was older than Kirin that she had nothing to learn from her.

　So, Akari put her mouth close to her collar… and whispered into the microphone that she had hidden within.

“Kirin-chan, can you hear me? Raika is acting as usual.”

　Obviously, who she was talking to…

　It was Kirin, who currently was in a distant area.

“… Mumumu. I need an opportunity where I can take advantage of her…!”

　Kirin, who had been rejected by Raika many times, temporarily stopped approaching Raika directly.

　And so, she had approached Akari and asked her to relay and observe Raika’s current situation to help Kirin seize the perfect opportunity to become her Amica.

　For Kirin, the time and place where as big a deal as Kirin’s mental state.

　Shima Kirin is a girl who is more than just cute and innocent…

　After finishing her specialized classes, Akari was walking down the hallway with Raika.

“Those guys were just a bunch of small fry.”

　After demolishing those boys in hand to hand combat, Raika was in an exhilarated mood.

“Raika is really strong.”

　Akari, who watched her friend in action, was congratulating Raika and quite proud of her.

　But Akari couldn’t just be happy for her right now.

　Right now, Akari was on a mission to help Kirin.

(I hope I can find an opportunity for Raika and Kirin-chan to get along better…)

　Glancing at Raika, as Akari was internally thinking…

　As they were walking along the hallway,

“… Hino Raika? A manly girl like that is at the bottom!”

　From inside an empty classroom, they heard some of the boys in their first year Assault Department.

　It seems that they are talking about Raika, so Akari and Raika both began to listen to the conversation without saying a word.

　Then,

“Only her face is pretty, everything else about her is just manly.” (TL Note: I will not take Raika leg slander, y’all better recognize that her legs are a 10/10.)

“She isn’t even cute, she is like 170cm’s tall, isn’t she?” (TL Note: 5 foot 5.)

　… It seems that they are ranking Raika as a girl.

　Moreover, they were not saying very uplifting things about her.

　When Akari peeked through the window separating the corridor from the classroom, it seemed that the boys were ranking the girls of each grade. Basically, ranking the girls based on who was the cutest and who was the least cute.

　5 boys had spread out their notebooks on a desk and had surrounded it. Among those boys, there was one that Raika had beaten in CQC just earlier.

　Looking at the girls names written in the notebook, they were rudely being rated on a scale of ◎○△× , a 4 tier scale. (TL Note: as is revealed shortly, double circle is top and X is bottom.)

　The scale was called “Cuteness Ranking”–

　From what Akari could see, “Mamiya Akari (Assault Department) △～○？← Too small.” and “Sasaki Shino (Inquesta Department) ◎”. Akari could only nod in agreement with that.

　In addition to Assault and Inquesta, they were also ranking the girls from Rapier, Logi, Lezzad, and Ambulance, obviously without the girls knowledge or agreement…

“–Then, last place should be Raika!”

　One of the boys grabbed a pen and put a big X over “Hino Raika (Assault Department)”.

　On the Cuteness Ranking, Raika was bottom.

　Behind her back, Raika was being insulted and criticized.

　Without a doubt some of those boys were just envious and jealous of Raika’s skill, but… the fact that they were laughing out loud just showed that they truly did not see anything cute about Raika as a girl.

　Akari and Raika in the corridor could not hear anything other than their laughter.

　Certainly…

　Raika was beautiful, but she was more cool than cute, a model more than a school girl. She did not have the cuteness that would make her popular with boys.

　But that does not just mean that the boys had the right to point at her and make her into a laughingstock.

(The boys at Butei High lack any delicacy!!)

　Akari was angry, and thought that Raika herself would be furious and storm into the classroom, and fully intended to assist her, but,

“… Hm.

　Raika just snorted at them, and calmly entered the nearby women’s restroom.

　It seemed that she was mature enough to ignore their childish, albeit rude, antics.

　Akari, though,

(Those stupid boys…!)

　Glared at the classroom door.

　But Akari did not go in. Without Raika’s help, the boys would easily just kick her out…

　So, Akari went into the women’s restroom because she was worried about Raika. She also had to consider Kirin’s request, so she could not afford to lose sight of Raika for even a moment.

“…?”

　Akari could not find Raika anywhere inside the pink tiled women’s restroom.

　However, only one stall door was closed.

　Raika must be the one inside it.

“Raika.”

　When Akari called out to her,

“Ah, Akari–, you can go on ahead without me.”

　Raika replied back.

　Raika just spoke in her usual crisp voice..

(…)

　Since other girls began to enter the bathroom with squeals of laughter, Akari,

“… I will go on ahead then.”

　Even though she was worried about Raika, Akari made to leave–

　But–

　… gusun…

　Akari stopped at the small sound that she heard from the stall that Raika was in.

　Akari could tell, it was the sound of Raika trying to hold herself back from crying.

　Raika was crying right now.

　While she might be a strong, cool, and elite girl from the Assault Department…

　She is still a girl, and as a girl she was hurt.

　Hurt, she ran away to such a small and miserable place.

　And here… she is crying.

　Because Raika is tall, strong, and has a cool face… Raika has never felt like a girl.

　No matter what she wished for, or what she did…

　Raika could never consider herself cute.

　Akari, who had been asked by Kirin to investigate Raika,

(Even I had never known this about Raika… Do I really know who she is?)

　Although Akari saw Raika as a close friend, she could only feel shame at never realizing this side of Raika and her feelings.

“Raika Onee-sama…”

　–It seemed that even Kirin, a member of CVR, a department known for its cute girls, had overheard the whole thing through Akari’s microphone.

　　§　　　§

　The next day was a day off of class, so Raika stayed in her apartment all morning and afternoon.

　Sitting on the floor in a 1 person bedroom, with a cold pizza next to her that she had for brunch, Raika was disassembling and repairing her gun with a conflicted face.

　Her other guns and knives were stored methodically by the wall, but on the floor was a sports bag that she had brought home yesterday and thrown on the floor, leaving it untouched.

　Raika, looking like a soldier from the JSDF, wearing only cute jeans and a sleeveless shirt, in her mind Raika thought in her mind,

“Men and women.”

“Is she a man?”

“Well she isn’t cute.”

　The only thoughts she had were the words that she had heard the boys say yesterday.

　It was an irritating and unending stream of words that Raika was remembering despite the fact that she never wanted to remember them again.

　The hand holding the brass brush was pushed too hard,

“–ahh.”

　Tochi, Raika dropped the spring that she was cleaning.

　Her inner frustration… it grew greater and greater.

(Ah–… Stop. I need to get rid of this stress-!)

　Raika opened her closet while undoing her ponytail.

　Ant then, she took out her personal clothes from the back.

　She grabbed a masculine-looking black denim jacket, and instead of grabbing a skirt she grabbed a pair of shorts– An older sister type girl at Odaiba told her that it would look good on her. (TL Note: Older sister knows… Raika bare legs…)

　Raika took out a pair of sunglasses from the back of her closest as well as an old school British newsboy cap.(TL Note: term is ハンチング帽. Google it if you need clarification.)

　For Raika, this getup looked and acted more like a disguise than dressing up, however she looked very attractive,

(It has been a while since I wen there…)

　Thinking about her destination…

　She began to blush from two emotions: Embarrassment and excitement.

　　§　　　§

　Around the same time, outside Raika’s apartment,

“Kirin-chan… Why are you watching Raika even though it’s a holiday…?”

“I am watching her because it is a holiday.”

　Kirin was watching Raika, hoping to investigate her private life, and Akari had been dragged along.

　At Butei High, students were encouraged to wear their bulletproof outside of school, even on holidays, so both Akari and Kirin were wearing their bullet proof uniforms.

　However, Kirin’s remodelled skirt that was fluttering in the wind was even shorter than yesterday.

　Kirin had her giraffe stuffed toy on her that she always carried around. However, Akari wondered (That giraffe is named Jonathan if I remember correctly? Why does it look different than normal…).

“–Ah! She went outside.”

　Kirin perked up when she saw Raika leave the apartment, so Akari missed the opportunity to ask her about the giraffe.

　When Akari sneakily sticks her head out from behind her shrub cover…

　Wearing a black jacket and shorts, with sunglasses and a hat, Raika was leaving her apartment.

　Kirin’s eyes were sparkling, as if to say “Wonderful♥” when she saw Kirin in her plain clothes.

“Where are you… going dressed like that, Raika…?”

“Anyway, we have to follow her.”

　–Akari and Kirin began to sneakily follow Raika.

　Raika took the Yurikamome to Shimbashi station. Blending in with the crowds, she transferred to the JR Keihin Tohoku Line…

　Even though Akari and Kirin were in the same vehicle as Raika, she was no the least bit aware of them.

　Thinking that Raika was being far too careless for a Butei,

“Raika-oneesama doesn’t seem to be very careful…”

　Kirin whispered a little disappointed, which Akari smiled wryly at.

　The train–

“Next is Akihabara, Akihabara. Please exit on the right.”

　–The train stopped at JR Akihabara Station, which Raika got off at.

　Akihabara connects to stations along the Sobu/Chuo Line, Yamanote Line, Hibiya Line, etc, so Akari thought that she was just changing trains, but… Raika headed for the exit. This seemed to be her destination.

　Akari was surprised by this.

　Akihabara, which is a high populated area making it hard to use guns, has intricate alleys making it hard to track criminals… It is a place typically avoided by Butei. There is also an unusually high failure rate when it comes to capturing criminals here, earning it the nickname “Town of the Sealed Butei”.

　It was the early afternoon on a Saturday, so the area in front of the aptly called Electric Town was bustling as expected.

　In order to not lose sight of Raika among the crowd, Akari and Kirin followed after her while concealing their presence.

　As they walked through a plaza in front of the station, and past a radio shop that had an aged look to it…

(Ahh)

　Akari noticed that there was a girl in the Butei High uniform in side the radio shop. It was a remodelled uniform full of frills like Kirin’s, but it was very well made, almost looking authentic. It was not one of the fakes that high school cosplayers sometimes wear around Akihabara.

　She had fluffy blonde twintails tied up on either side, and while Akari was curious about her since she seemed to be her senior… For now, she had to follow Raika.

　So, Akari left her without calling out to her, and continued to chase after Kirin and Raika.

　… And so, after walking for a while…

　Raika headed for a building right next to the Electric Town exit.

　Radio Kaikan… A building that housed shops that sell miscellaneous products that symbolize the soul of Akihabara, such as home appliances, real guns, air guns, video games, and even figurines.

　Raika stopped in front of it for a second, looked around restlessly, and…

　Kosokoso, she sneaked inside.

　Akari and Kirin watched her while hiding behind a life-sized CG anime character.

“Why would Raika go to a place like this…?”

　In contrast to Akari’s confused face,

“No way, Onee-sama… This is unexpected. Okay, Mamiya-san, I will follow you now.”

　Kirin, holding onto her stuff giraffe Jonathan, seemed to have something on her mind.

　Upon entering the building–

　Since Raika had taken the elevator to the upper floors with other guests, Akari had to check each elevator stop and the shops there for her.

　At first Akari saw it as a hassle, but she ended up finding it fun walking around the building and looking at all the shops.

　Kirin did not agree with her, but for Akari, the inside of Radio Kaikan was like a museum, full of things she had never seen before.

　Although the atmosphere of the building was more catering to boys, Akari had fun looking at the toy shops and the various candy stores.

　However, Akari had to regain her composure. She did not come here for sightseeing.

(Where… is Raika?)