Chapter 5: The Singing Tiger of the Iron Cross — Panzerlied
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That night, I arrived in a battered state at the town of Chamonix…
It appeared to be a tourist spot with an amalgamation of French and Swiss culture.
Katze tottered into an old, German-speaking hotel, and we were shown to a third-storey room that did not seem to be rented to ordinary guests.
The interior was decorated in a pure German-style with a mounted deer head, grandfather clock, and all other kinds of old-fashioned items.
On the wall hung a portrait of Bismarck wearing a spiked helmet. I see that this place we are staying might just be a little overzealously pro-German. They weren’t even surprised at Katze’s clothes!
Afterwards we gorged ourselves on cheese fondue and gulped down soup in the dining room, then relaxed in front of the hotel’s fireplace. Thank goodness we just made it… and we’re alive.
Katze had already placed a call to get in touch with her supporters.
She had already confiscated my mobile. She appears to be delighted with the novel Japanese style… taking it out periodically and playing with the Tetris app.
Outside the window was a jaw-droppingly gorgeous night sky.
If I want to run away, now would be the time, but…
Katze had already declared that I was a prisoner of war.
That being the case, I will definitely be taken somewhere. It is also more than likely that we will join Katze’s subordinates at the『Armoury』where they have stored their weapons and supplies and where they will regroup after this aborted advance.
For that reason, I will eat this poison dish set before me. By pretending to be cooperative, I will find out their position.
Running away with tail between legs while being hard-pressed by an enemy is a violation of school rules.
So, making up my mind, I resolved to begin by being cordial–
Turning toward the mud-stained face of Katze beside me on the sofa:
「Oi, Katze, that’s spoiling your cute face,」
I said something I might say to a primary schoolgirl as I wiped her face clean with a handkerchief.
Then Katze–
「C…cu-cute…? M-me? D-d-don’t say something like that!」
Matching Aria’s skill in suddenly blushing a deep red, *Slap!*
She slapped me across the face with her hand.
For some reason… my actions had the opposite of the intended effect. It seems to be a universally proven fact that I am simply not good at handling girls.
After this little scene played out, we returned to the room and Katze locked the door…
Then with Edgar keeping watch, she headed toward the bed and was soon snoring loudly. This girl wasn’t as conscientious as Jeanne, so this time I ended up sleeping on the floor. But that’s alright. I’ll take the chance to sleep when I can. If I don’t take the chance to recover, I won’t be able to determine the enemy’s location, much less escape afterwards.
I began dozing off… until several hours had passed.
Hearing the steady rhythmic thud of combat boots, I opened my eyes. By the noise… there are 5 of them.
Waking up afterwards, Katze hurriedly adjusted her collar into place–and as the door opened,
「–Heil!」
「Sieg Heil!」
Apparently, some girls had arrived to rescue her, and they gave a brisk Nazi salute.
Then, with a cry of joy, they crowded around her.
All of a sudden, they seemed like a bunch of normal girls.
And, in a typical girlish action, they all cast sour looks in my direction…
It appears that Katze takes good care of her juniors, and she spoke to each, giving them a smile and hug.
The girls also appear to care for Katze as well. This must be one of her good traits…
But would all of you that appear to be witches-in-training, please stop glowering at me like that? None of you have taken your eyes off of me.
****************************************************
The next morning, we were riding in a military transport truck–
I rode with Katze and the rest down the westward side of the mountain from Chamonix that was placed halfway up the slope of the Alps. From there, we changed over to a train and continued heading west. For some reason, we didn’t use the airship. It was probably my fault that the invasion of Italy was halted, and everyone was retreating back to wherever their bases were located for the time being. Well, I guess you can say that the one thing I’ve done is hobble the enemy’s advance at the outset.
Then, after spending an entire half day like this–
It became evening, and I was blindfolded and taken out of the truck. Then I was seated backwards on some kind of strange vehicle. It sounded like a motorbike… it must be an SdKfz 2. I must be on the back.
The SdKfz 2 is one of the few types of vehicles able to form a motorcade and proceed on bad roads where conventional motor vehicles are unable to do so.
Then…. we drove onto a path that undulated like a barge.
I could smell water. But it wasn’t salty. We must be crossing a lake.
Then we pulled out onto a cobblestone street, and after a short distance, we all stopped.
「Now then, Tohyama. You can get off.」
Once Katze removed the blindfold– I saw an old stone fortress. We were in the carriageway entrance. Trucks could pass easily through this short tunnel-like archway that continued through to the main structure.
On either side of the tunnel there hung Nazi Germany banners… and inside, waiting to greet Katze were a bunch of girls standing abreast at rigid attention. Then, from inside the main building–
「…!」
I’m used to seeing incredible things, but this completely staggered me when I saw it.
— A Tiger I…!
The prized vehicle of Nazi Germany, the world-famous heavy tank.
It must have been kept in storage until now.
In its day, it’s 88mm main gun caused the Allied forces to tremble. Although its boxy shape is not modern, its armour is strong enough to shrug off main tank gun fire.
Its turret number is 132. Used on the Tunisian front, it was a light sand colour.
Even so, it’s a tank…!
How the heck were you able to hold onto something so conspicuous…!?
At first glance, I knew it was the genuine article, but I still held out a last sliver of hope as it approached… but as I looked up at it, it was the real thing. It wasn’t a poor imitation. It even looks like it’s operable!
「…!?」
Then I noticed that there were other tanks nearby. An English Mark VIII Cromwell, a former Soviet Union T-34 medium tank, and an American M4 medium tank. All tanks from the Second World War. There was even a Japanese Type-95 Ha-Go light tank.
I had a feeling that I had been outwitted as I turned away from surveying the line-up of tanks–
「Musée de la Guerre École.」
Musée… in English, that means ‘museum’…Then an advert caught my eye.
『Ride in a tank! You can even aim the main gun!』a nearby brochure proclaimed.
Then I understood.
This is–
A military museum. It appears that they run this place as a real museum.
In other words, the museum is a camouflage, and it also serves… as Katze’s『Armoury』…!
That’s how it is. That’s how these terrorists think. Handled this way, they can just leave their weapons scattered about in the open.
Although it was taboo in Europe, this way the large swastika banner could hang peacefully.
「Oi!」
I turned around because Katze tapped me on the shoulder–
She was holding out her hand, palm up. Does she want some kind of New Years’ gift?
「… What, Katze?」
「The admission fee. It’s 8 Euro.」
「… You want me to pay?」
「Come on, now! It’s for the ticket. There’s a commemorative stamp that comes with it too.」
Feeling extorted, I fished out a 10 Euro note and got the ticket with a swastika mark on the back.
I received my 2 Euro in change… but what am I going to do with this ticket?
「… This ticket. Won’t you be arrested if you take this ticket out in any city in Europe?」
「That’s right. It is merely proof that Nazi Germany is feared, even to this day. Being feared for a hundred and the next thousand years is an honour for a witch! Heh heh!」
Katze laughed, relaxing as we entered her own domain. But I couldn’t relax.
That is to say, inside the castle. It played the part of a museum well. The Tiger I’s were placed centrally in such a way to capture the attention of visitors and make them want to pay the admission. Inside, I spared a quick glance to a V-1 missile.
…Well, when I look at it. I guess I paid as well.
Oh! Mutou has a model of a Jagdpanther too! If he were here, he’d go crazy. Although, if he had, I’m pretty sure he would have chattered on at great length, expounding from his vast store of personal knowledge.
**************************************************
Naturally, I didn’t get a tour, but instead I was taken to the fortress’ cellar–
It was a dim and very large space, that I would guess was Regiment Hex’s command centre.
Oh my. It really was quite scary. It felt just like a witch’s hideout. Hating anything to do with horror, Aria would put her hover skirt on full blast and run right out of here.
Upon reaching the command centre… first of all, they lit the candles on the skull-shaped quartz candlesticks placed all around the room.
On the wall was a chart famous in the Western magic tradition and that even I recognised– Sephirot, the Tree of Life, and two portraits of what appeared to be Nazi-era high-ranking male and female officers hung respectfully next to it.
The man seemed somewhat familiar… but I was having trouble remembering who it was.
Up past the carpet on the floor, staring out from the darkness at me–the golden eyes of a panther regarded me.
A magnificent chandelier cast prismatic light throughout the interior of the room and onto a long, narrow black oak table.
On both sides of the table stood a bunch of girls in Nazi uniforms and witch’s hats.
Including Katze who had replaced her own hat, there were six of them. Further back, though, there was another person who looked different…
Each of the rest were cute, but this woman was beautiful, and she wore a terribly tight micro-mini skirt.
All these people… gave the impression of being very capable.
It felt very different than when I was surrounded by Katze’s friends.
Judging by the lapel pins, none of them are ranked lower than field officer– so this must be a witches’ board of directors meeting, I guess?
Most conspicuous of all, sitting at the head of the table– in the seat furthest away was a woman of about 20, looking down at everyone with blue eyes. She was the only one who in place of a witch’s hat wore a typical Nazi cap instead.
On her collar– on both sides were a set of 3 oak leaves without any stars– a major-general.1 So this is what a general looks like, huh?
The beautiful woman tossed her single length blonde hair. She wore deep crimson lipstick to match. She was pleasingly tall and slender, but unfortunately the sharp look in her eyes was frightening.
If you’re that type of guy that is inclined toward the sadistic, it might be enough to make you weep tears of joy.
–This woman.
「Heil!」
Giving the typical informal salute, each of the 6 girl witches, including Katze, did so before taking a seat.
I’m getting tired of seeing that Nazi salute. It was only novel at first.
「Jetzt… As we have a guest, we will speak Japanese.」
The major-general in charge instructed.
「From the western French provincial division of Regiment Hex– Regimental Commander, Katze Glacé, reporting in. Operation Purple was interrupted. During the course of operations, I took a prisoner of war. Based upon military procedure, the regiment dealt with him as we saw fit.」
Katze reported crisply, treating me as spoils of war.
「Thank-you for your hard work. And your personal contribution to Regiment Hex’s role in FEW. The report was unnecessary; however, I believe that if it came to the Führer’s ears, he would be pleased.」
The major general concluded in a loud voice swelling with pride. Then she turned toward me with narrowed eyes.
「Tohyama-shi. I am one Everita Estelle. Caretaker of these children– serving in the role of a director. Japan and Germany are close allies, and so I welcome you. Your great country has produced such fine minds as Tougou Heichirou, Hideyo Noguchi, and Kenji Miyazawa. I honour you.」2
What kind of context are you talking about? It’s like this girl has slipped back 70 years.
「… That oil painting. It’s Hitler, isn’t it?」
I pointed to the painting hanging behind her…
「Your knowledge of history is lacking, Tohyama-shi. Regiment Hex is not under Führer Hitler’s command, but rather one of his subordinates. The great founding witch of the past, Battle Storm Witch Illmeria Estelle, reported directly to Director Himmler. She was my great-grandmother. Her husband was the second captain of I.U., Gert Estelle.」
An old I.U. captain… and she is their descendant? This woman–Everita.
Now I remember, on I.U. a portrait of the previous captains depicted a Nazi German officer that was entombed onboard. Is she that man’s great-grandchild?
What’s more… based on bits and pieces of what director Everita said–
She was the overseer in charge of dispatching personnel from what appears to be the headquarters of the modern-day remnants of Nazi Germany.
With the ability to dispose of prisoners captured in war as they see fit, and a report being unnecessary… If I were to compare it to a corporation, Regiment Hex is like a holding company, and I’ve been brought here as window dressing for upper management. The Führer would then be the parent company’s chairman. That would make Katze the president of one of the many subsidiary companies.
G-3 had said it so much that it began to get old… There are many strong, successful groups in the world with Nazi German heritage. Regiment Hex is merely one of them.
By report, each organisation’s actions are loosely connected, and the links between fellow Nazi affiliate companies are weak.
Even so… these witches… are from many disparate ethnicities…
There were several eye colours and skin tones, and on top of that multi-coloured hair that looked like it came from a magic-based anime.
There were those of Germanic heritage like director Everita, Eastern European Slavs, Nordic Scandinavians, South American Latinas, and Turks.
Modern-day adherence to the principle of racial discrimination that was the ideal of the Third Reich… seems not to be in effect.
Well, I suppose that if you hold to those belief in the modern era, you won’t be able to recruit the most capable people. As the head of a fighting force, Katze would only run into a lack of human resources.
Fascism… no, all ideologies, become out-dated. Organisations have to change with the ways of the world.
Traditional uniforms impart a sense of unity to scattered members of an organisation, accomplishing this by the use of mere fashion. Externally, it also serves as a sort of camouflage. If you’re mistaken for someone else, you might get swept off your feet by someone like the US Military.
Sensing that I was thinking these kinds of thoughts, Everita expanded on the history of Regiment Hex.
「–Our magical ability is hereditary, and we are the descendant of the fighting witches for whom–ever since the Middle Ages–fighting has been their reason for living. In the last war, the witches have cast off their connection to Germany and have joined hands. Regiment Hex is an elite force that has inherited this legacy.」
… Speaking of Butei, aren’t they a close-knit group of gun-lovers? Especially the S-Ranks.
「As for the girls of Regiment Hex– they lack all morals. All they want to do is fight. Just having money and battlefield to fight on is enough. Even in the attack on Hong Kong, there was a certain influential American hoping to make inroads into China… Since our interests aligned, they made a small monetary contribution.」
Although we managed to stop the『vacuum bomb』–
You were still able to scare the Chinese authorities.
Unfortunately, it was a partial success. That act of terror was also an attack on me and my friends.
「Incompetent Nazi ghosts who don’t do anything but fight, and wander around looking for a reason to start a battle… Doesn’t that just make you terrorists? Is that really what you’ve been reduced to? Maybe that’s not something you want to do.」
As I took that hard-line stance, Everita looked a bit tired.
「Tohyama-shi. Pay very close attention to my words. In Shogi, a captured piece, may be turned it into an ally… however, are you familiar with the game of chess?」
Chess pieces– enemy pieces, when captured cannot be resurrected. They are simply killed.
…If that’s their plan, then I think it’s about time.
I’ve grasped something of their movements and identified the location of their arms depot. I ought to start looking for an escape.
「If you want to say something, just say it. Are you going to kill me?」
「Ho ho! Honey, even after being entertained by Rampan, you refused to switch sides– We lack the budget to entertain guests. So, what should we do?」
「I don’t want to be entertained. I don’t drink beer.」
It wasn’t as if I had walked in without a plan.
But outside of Hysteria Mode, my normal brain had come up with this plan…
I would『act as if I were in Hysteria Mode』and pretend to be significantly stronger than I actually was.
For better or worse, it appears that I am pretty well known in the underworld.
In other words, I was desperately trying to bluff my way through it–
「So, are you going to yield? If you don’t have a white flag, I can let you use my garter.」
「Is that what you think? I was thinking just the opposite. I was going to allow Regiment Hex to surrender and return Aria’s karagane. Even unarmed, I’ll let you know that I can turn all 7 of you into sausages.」
In that remark, I made a fatal mistake.
As I began to speak, Everita raised her eyebrows, and answering as if she hadn’t heard what I had said–
「–Execution then. Now is the time you should cry and beg for your life, you dolt.」
In Aria’s hasty manner, she pronounced a death sentence.
… Crap! My bluff failed spectacularly…!
I’ve underestimated my female opponent…!
Actually, I want to snap『I don’t want your underwear!』, Director. Although I’m smiling, veins are bulging on my forehead. It looks like a mini swastika.
As I turned pale, which was not a part of my bluff–*Swish!* Katze raised a hand.
「I-I would like to say something, if I may. Everita-sama.」
「Oh? What is it, Katze?」
「Tohyama is a reliable person. As a member of a formerly allied nation, we should accept him as an ally.」
Katze said, and even from behind, I can see the sweat breaking out on her forehead.
This appears to be a militaristic group. And she appears to be sticking her neck out to voice an objection to a superior officer.
「Katze. Do you need to be punished for betrayal? Do you know what the penalty is? Should I torture you?」
「T-this man saved my Edgar.」
「…What? What is this? Explain in detail.」
She said, leaning back into her chair–
Katze told the story of the disaster on Mount Blanc, and how I had returned her large crow.
Hearing that story… Director Everita began to lean forward as she heard it.
「… Oh…」
Looking up and shutting her eyes… *Drip!* A tear trickled from her closed eyes.
Then she took out a red handkerchief and quickly dabbed away her tears to avoid ruining her make-up.
For some reason… she seems… moved.
Even though all I had done was help and return a crow.
It seems that, at the moment, Everita is impressed…
「…Now. That’s how it is. If you weren’t an enemy, it would be a tale worthy of the Iron Cross. For a witch, their familiar is a second life. For Tohyama’s rescue, instead of a medal, we will bestow a pardon.」
*Sniff!* *Sniff!*, She blew her nose into her handkerchief.
This girl… must be easily moved to tears.
「Therefore, his sentence is amended. You demonstrated kindness to a terrorist. Although he is not my type, you are here, Rosanna. Please carry out the procedure.」
Everita ordered one of the heretofore silent and timid looking witches wearing glasses–
「Understood. Seig heil!」
She suddenly looked very excited, and her braids bobbed energetically as she saluted. Then she muttered things like:「Operate, I’ll operate. I’ll turn you into a beautiful woman. Fu fu fu!」
Operation… Huh? What are you planning to do to me? I’m scared.
It’s like a mysterious villain from Kamen Rider. I’m used to being a little afraid all the time thanks mainly to Aria, but this is seriously frightening.
Pleased to see me trembling, Everita stood briskly to her feet.
「–Ho ho ho! Who is the smartest in the world?」
She asked, and the 6 girls stood to their feet–and in unison:
「Everita-sama!」
They chorused.
「Who is the most beautiful in the world?」
「Everita-sama!」
「That is all! Dismissed!」
For some unknown reason, it appears that the war council is over…
It appears that Everita does not intend to have me killed. However, it seems that more problems are still to come.
***********************************************
Handcuffed again, I was confined in a small room on the first floor… sitting on the bed, it became dark.
Now’s the time to make my getaway. And I know what I have to do.
The window was small, but my head would fit through it. The Tohyama Family secret technique,『Kotsukokuki』3— it allows me to consciously dislocate and break bones, and if I did it to every bone in my body, I’d be able to escape. Although the pain would make me want to die. The iron grill on the window would also require a headbutt.
As I pondered this final escape plan…
–*Click!*
A uniformed Katze opened the door to the room knocking.
With a slightly strained expression, she suddenly flushed red in embarrassment and closed the door…
Some people on the outside of the door pushed it, creating a small gap.
Katze didn’t seem to have noticed, but through the crack… I saw that there was a group of witches sneakily peering into the room.
I was unsure of what was going on.
「…For what you did, thank-you.」
I’m guessing from her tale about Edgar, she came to express her thanks.
「A German witch always pays her debts. On the mountain… that is… th-thanks for keeping me warm. But now we’re even. The disgrace of being helped by a POW is erased.」
Still red-faced, Katze, *Plop!*
She sat down on the bed beside me. Ridiculously close.
The scent of some kind of shampoo and soap is present. Katze is giving off a slightly feminine scent.
「There’s more to why I helped you with director Everita. If we killed you, there would be a violent counter-attack–you’re known as『The Cursed Man』. At least within GRENEDA.」
…My disliked epithets just seem to multiply.『Enable』is much better.
Screwing up her face, Katze casually moved closed and re-situated herself… she slid closer toward me.
Then she took a flask from her breast pocket and took a gulp.
「Tohyama. You should take a drink too.」
Red up to her ears, Katze passed it over… The alcohol seems to have already had an effect.
「Didn’t Hitler say that alcohol is poisonous water?」
「Y-you’re making me nervous. Stop nit-picking.」
She said as she took out a cigarette. She was a bad girl after all.
Her hands shook for some reason, and unable to strike a flame with her lighter, she let it fall with a sunken expression on her face–
「There’s a way to stop it… the operation to turn you into a witch, I mean. Everita-sama loves all witches’ familiars. Edgar has also agreed to concede his position. As a cursed man, you already have the proper makings.」
「I don’t understand everything that you said… but if you can stop the operation, I’d be grateful.」
「Alright. Then we will pledge ourselves to each other. Only once in a lifetime can a witch do this with a human male. Even Everita-sama’s cougar was the result of such an act. Turning an animal or bird into a familiar is a girl’s test.」
–*Squish!*
Then, she thrust her face forward–and closed her eyes.
Suddenly, Katze… k-kissed me…! What’s going on!?
「Hrng… oi…! Hold it… What are you trying to do!?」
I tried to escape, but the bed was pressed up against the wall, and Katze– crawled closer on hands and knees.
「You know.」
「No I don’t…!」
「Everyone in the hallway is straining their ears to listen in, but I’ll let it go. That’s just life.」
Removing her necktie, starting at the top– Katze undid the buttons to her black uniform, one by one.
I-i-it seems that she isn’t going to stop at a mere kiss…!
「Just sit there quietly. It will all be over very soon.」
With a *Whoomph!*, she pulled the front of her shirt wide open, and although larger than Aria’s, they were small– Her breasts were covered in bright red lace underwear and pressed into my face,
C-crap! There’s a good, good smell…!
Now, I understood all too well the meaning behind her actions– She intends to take advantage of me against my will. I remember Shirayuki, Riko, and Jeanne all tried to do the same. I consciously chose to forget such occurrences.
「It’s a rule in my family. You are b-bonded with the one who saves your life…」
With Katze’s chest pushed up against my face—I’m having a problem talking–
Seeming to have already given in to this voice and child-like body, my heart…
…*Ka-thump!*…
Beat wildly inside my chest.
「…?」
Katze sat up. Her breasts lost contact with my body.
Then, with a look of utter confusion, she pulled the edges of her jacket close.
I understood the reason.
–It was cold.
The temperature inside the room had suddenly dropped.
Then the air began to sparkle…
Diamond dust fluttered about the room.
Looking over my shoulder, I saw that the wall around the window had frozen over.
The ice there was spreading with a crackling sound. The cold had spread into the room from there.
I’ve… seen this before. Back in May, in the underground storage area. I was told its Japanese name later on by the user themself.
『Ice Flower of Orleans』…!
Sitting up on the bed with Katze, I looked outside the window–
There, sitting lightly atop a motorbike with a sidecar was,
「… Jeanne…!」
It was the Diamond Dust Witch Jeanne with a communication device in her ear.
「W…we’re under attack! It’s Jeanne d’Arc!」
Katze shouted in Japanese, and the witches peeking through the cracked door made a commotion.
It seems she had stolen it from a storage area and started the engine–and the sound of it faded. From the sound of rattling pebbles thrown up, I thought that she was turning to escape.
Then, there was a rustling sound…
From inside the sidecar, she brandished Meiya’s huge sword and pointed it in our direction.
Then with the large sword in place like a knight’s lance, the engine roared…! She charged with the motorbike.
Then with the genuine appearance of a female knight, Jeanne…
–*Vroooom!*
Then as the engine whined, the large iron sword struck and ripped through the wall that had already been weakened by the cold. The bike’s front wheel pushed its way into the room.
Shards of the shattered stone wall with the window scattered and blasted throughout the room.
…That was ridiculously dangerous…!
Then Jeanne, who had skewered the wall with a sword that was too heavy for me, hefted it up. Using both hands, she stabbed it through the back of the side car’s body, and the weight canted it backwards.
「Tohyama. Follow me!」
With the gaping hole in the wall, there was no need for me to break or dislocate my own bones–
Giving a shout of triumph, with my Hysteria Mode augmented speed, I dashed into the sidecar.
Having been hit on the head by a fragment of the wall resulting from Jeanne’s charge, Katze sat on the ground with the legs spread wide. With small crow chicks cheeping as they circled her head, she sat in a total daze.
Seeming to have enjoyed peeping through the door just as much as the rest, Director Everita sprang into the room with an automatic pistol held high…
In the same instant, Jeanne displayed masterful control of the motor bike, throttling into a turn in order to avoid Everita’s line of fire.
Accelerating down the stony path, she had already secured our retreat with ice– heading out onto the lake.
************************************************************
Using magic– Jeanne melted the bridge of ice behind us as the motor bike raced across it. Thus, even if the SdKfz 2 wanted to follow, they couldn’t. There was a barge spanning the lake, but our escape route stretched out in a totally different direction.
「What’s the concentration of Riri particles, Jeanne? It looks like you can use magic…」
「At this moment it is weak, like entering the eye of a storm, but it is still strong. It probably will not actually clear up until after tomorrow. So, I do not want to use any more magic if I can help it.」
Such conditions will also apply to the enemy, so they won’t be able to follow us by riding brooms through the air.
There also won’t be any flying fireballs or lightning called down upon us.
「I wondered if I could get close enough to launch such a powerful magic attack without being noticed, but I was lucky. It seems the witches were all very focused on something else. Something like a romantic affair, for instance.」
「…I’ll explain later.」
Unable to use magic, I wonder what kinds of weapons the enemy will take up?
But they can use whatever weapons they want. I’m in Hysteria Mode–
–I saw a sudden flash of light from the wall of the castle in the motor bike’s side mirror–
「Duck, Jeanne!」
–*Flash!*
–*Whoooosh!*… *Whoom!!*…!
An artillery shell flew past us at Mach 2.
Like a thunderbolt’s clap of thunder, the boom lagged slightly behind the flash.
Then there was a huge splash–!
On our left, the surface of the lake erupted into a huge geyser, reaching up high into the air.
–*Boom!*
Buffeted by the shock of air and water, I saw Jeanne try to control the motor bike– and taking the huge sword in hand, I used it as a makeshift ballast stabiliser to avoid tumbling over.
「That was an 8.8 cm shell…!」
Seeming to have deduced that from the ruffling of her silver-grey hair, Jeanne put on the accelerator again.
The two of us looked in the motor bike mirrors– *Rumble!* *Rumble!* *Rumble!*…
Oh… I did say『whatever weapons』you have, but…
That’s a bit troublesome. But that’s about par for the course for me. I knew it would happen sooner or later.
With a rattling noise… the sound of caterpillar tracks came from the castle gate.
It was the fierce tiger of the Iron Cross. Exiting the castle. The archfiend of heavy tanks.
–The Tiger I…!
That’s pretty reckless of you, Regiment Hex…!
Firing the first shot makes sense if you think about a tank from that era. As for the second shot–
–*Flash!*–
–*Whoooosh!*… *Thud!!*…–!
This time it struck on the opposite right side.
The motor bike came close to overturning once more, but thanks to the extra weight of the sidecar, it just barely managed to keep on course.
「They hit on both side of us, and must be adjusting their angle. They might hit us with the next shot.」
「A motor bike is a small target, so hitting us will be hard.」
「It is a small mercy that they are not using fragmentation shells. It looks like they only have armour-piercing munitions.」
About to enter the woods after crossing the lake– the motorbike suddenly accelerated. The very next instant:
–*Boooooom!*–!
The third shot impacted the lakeshore directly behind us, kicking up an innumerable number of stones behind us–
With a popping sound, the rear tyre of the motor bike was punctured. The wheel instantly deflated.
With a scuffing noise, Jeanne rolled safely away from the sliding motor bike, and with the huge sword in my hands, I leapt from the sidecar.
For now… we’ll have to run the short distance to the forest. The Tiger did not have enough time to reload for another shot before that.
Brushing off the dirt from the dust cloud, Jeanne stood unruffled.
She then passed me a communication device to put in my own ear.
「Our allies are providing directions. Let us meet up with them.」
『For now, please run. The target is approximately 170 metres away.』
It was Nakasorachi’s voice. She gave us an accurate situation report via the communications device.
『Please hurry up! Tiger is going around the lake!』
That voice… was Constellation’s… Shima-chan…! Did she come to help too?
Regardless, we dashed into the woods…
「My apologies, Tohyama, for bothering you with this rescue operation. You seemed to be getting on quite well with Katze as I intruded.」
Jeanne remarked with somewhat of an edge to her voice.
「Speaking of which, you found me pretty quickly. Uh… how did you do that?」
I asked, trying the change the topic.
「We are near the border of Luxembourg and Belgium in the area near the Luxembourg Ecole. When you had been out of contact for a long time, I asked Nakasorachi to look for you. I also reached out to a descendant of the first Jeanne d’Arc at LUXGSM and was able to deduce your location from your mobile phone data.」
From my mobile phone…
Even if you aren’t making a phone call, you are still connected to the signal tower via radio waves.
In other words, as long as it is powered, it is possible to trace the phone.
Katze… she found my Japanese mobile interesting, must not have turned it off, and that backfired on her.
However, in order to use the network to perform a trace–you need the cooperation of the carrier.
Nakasorachi and Jeanne must have managed it between them…
–Doing all that because I had been captured by the enemy.
As Constellation’s auditor, until now…
I had only looked down on this Team. Even though they were my friends.
I had written them off. I thought that this team was just a pile of junk.
Why… why didn’t I trust them?
I reflected on the fact that they had rescued me. Reflected deeply.
It was in Butei Article 1: Believe in your comrades and help them–
Reminding myself of that fact, Jeanne and I entered the woods.
************************************************
Slipping into the woods to hide, we waited inside of the forest–
…And so did the heavy tank…!
Although the Tiger looked small from a distance, it was the real thing and only idling.
However– Jeanne rushed over to something she had prepared to aid us beforehand.
「I was able to find a car, but I walked from the border… Fortunately, I was able to acquire this tank from their armoury. Their guard was nodding off, and chloroform made the task simple. I wanted the B1 tank, but this was the only one that I could get running quickly.」
Jeanne said by way of explanation, and…
She indicated a former Imperial Japanese Army Ha-Go light tank.
It was about the size of an automobile and carried 3 people.
It’s guns and armour were toys in comparison to the Tiger, but it was a real tank that had scattered enemies left and right during the Malayan Campaign. It seldom broke down and could handle the worst roads. If we want to cross the wide-open space in front of us while being chased by the Tiger, it is obviously more reliable than a regular car would be under fire.
「Meiya and Watson are also involved in this rescue operation. They are on stand-by with Nakasorachi in Belgium. It appears that the Luxembourg civil officials are sympathetic to Katze and her group, and they allow her to do as she pleases inside the country. In Belgium, however–they are fugitives from justice. If we can just cross the border, the Tiger will be unable to follow us.」
Meiya–is she supporting us?
In any case, the fortunes of war have blessed us in that we were able to steal both the motor bike and tank.
「Hurry up and get in! Let’s go!」
Popping up from the front hatch of the tank with a ribbon on her head–as I thought, was Shimaisago from LOGI. Have you been riding inside ever since it was taken from the armoury?
Although small, it was large enough. It was a real Ha-Go tank, after all.
Stepping up onto the tread roller, Jeanne and I clambered up the side of the tank and each took up a machine gunner’s position inside.
「Are we ready to go, Shima-chan? Full speed ahead!」
「Got it!」
If I recall correctly, in the Ha-Go tank, the main gunner also serves as the commander… So I stuck my head out from the turret and issued the order to the driver, Shima-chan– *Vroooom!*
Although small in size, the tank roared to life, kicking up dirt as it rolled forward.
Despite the off-road conditions, we headed west– with the Belgian border as our target, the speed of the antique tank was considerable. The vehicle is in good condition. It’s also faster than the Tiger.
As we dashed across the moonlit wasteland in the tank–
「Look at me! Look at me! I’m so big! So powerful! Ahahaha!」
I heard Shima-chan’s laughter that was just as loud as the diesel engine.
She seems excited for some reason… but that’s only to be expected of Mutou’s rival. She’s driving it like it’s a shrine.
Just don’t start hanging your clothes inside or I’ll be worried.
『–I have been able to intercept the enemy communications. Patching in now.』
Nakasorachi’s voice came from where she apparently waited at the Belgian border–
『Advance! Advance! Fire! Fire! Fire!』
Hearing director Everita’s voice in my ear, blood rush to my head.
The major general herself was aboard, literally the tiger cub inside the Tiger.
Rounding the lake rapidly, the Tiger rolled over several trees and, *Boom!*
Firing its 88 mm gun, we zig-zagged the Ha-Go to dodge it.
Under the moonlight– was this a German-Japanese tank battle?
This is like a falling out among Axis powers. My apologies to all the soldiers’ spirits that we have upset.
『Take better aim!』
『Please let go of my neck, Everita-sama.』
I heard Katze voice. It appears she is onboard the tank as well. You really are clever.
As the moon was obscured for a moment, they fired the turret-mounted machine gun to determine our location–
「Now that we’re being shot at, this is a lot less fun.」
I grumbled as I bent down, and Shima-chan said…
「There were replica cartridges, but there were also three 37 mm armour piercing rounds. The first is loaded!」
I was thankful for that statement.
While giving directions to Shima-chan, I turned the manual hand crank to swivel the turret. 180 degrees– pointing it back at the Pursuing Tiger I.
Pointing their guns at the Ha-Go as it flees, the Tiger has made a commotion–
「Target: Tiger I. Light: Insufficient…. I need the moon to come back. Range: Would you call it 800 metres?」
Artillery ballistics weren’t something covered in an ASSUALT classroom, but I’m in Hysteria Mode.
Concentrating intensely, I made a very minute correction to the angle of the barrel using the sight mounted at my shoulder–then fired–!
–*Boom!* Following the roar and recoil, the armour piercing shell described a parabola–
It scored a direct hit on the body of the Tiger with a *Ka-Clank!*
With an anticlimactic metallic clank, the shell ricocheted off the heavy tank armour.
A triumphant laugh came from the Tiger.
「… Loading the next shell.」
I thought as much.
This『light tank』is better suited to supporting an infantry battle than one between tanks.
That solid『heavy tank』was designed to fight other tanks.
Just one hit from that 88 mm gun, and it would be over for us.
On our side, however, the shell will be deflected no matter where it strikes.
I could blame it on the range, but at anything greater than 10 metres, the 37 mm shells are ineffective.
It’s like a scrawny kid trading slaps with a Makuuchi.4
The next bullet struck close by with a heavy thumping impact. It rocked the Ha-Go slightly.
「The accuracy of their firing is increasing. It’s getting dangerous.」
I said, to which the response came:
「… I can sense it. The enemy– are employing magic as well to improve their accuracy. Tohyama, the next shot will land.」
「Wha! Can’t you stop it? The border river is right there!」
Jeanne and Shima replied, respectively.
Synthesising both opinions– I put our chances at 50-50.
But we are moving faster. We are leaving the Tiger gradually behind.
We were approaching Belgium on an out of the way path, and what’s more, across open ground… Unfortunately, it appears that a river also marks the national boundary between Luxembourg and Belgium.
If we can avoid one more shot–we can get away.
With that thought in mind, I reloaded the less than 2-kg shell… then, a strange thing occurred.
「–!」
From the direction of the museum– it flew over the devastated forest making a strange sound.
「…V…1…!」
V-1– the cruise missile developed by Nazi Germany was airborne!
Obliquely behind us, it was headed our way!
At such close range, even a moving target can be accurately pin-pointed–
Is this an original design V-1? It might be an improved model with a remote guidance system.
If I remember correctly, the warhead carries 85 tonnes of mixed explosives.
If we were to be hit by such a thing, we’d be blasted into tiny pieces. The Ha-Go. And Us.
I made a snap decision–
「…!」
–*Boom!*
Taking instant aim, I fired the 37mm shell. Toward the V-1 missile.
But I was too soon–and the shell barely grazed it–
However, its trajectory was slightly altered… *BOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOM!*
It landed behind and to the right of the Ha-Go, and a bright crimson red fire exploded.
We escaped a direct hit, but the shock wave and concussion of the blast was transmitted through the earth and the Ha-Go began to slide–!
I heard the screams of Jeanne and Shima from within the tank as the 7-tonne body spun… turning almost 180 degrees. To face the Tiger.
「That’s…a~lmost it!」
Shima began counter rotating– doing her best to compensate, at last, she managed to reorient the vehicle in reverse. I think she plans to cross the river while in reverse.
But it seems the V-1 damaged the tank treads…and it’s too late!
This is bad. If we can’t move, we will be hit if the Tiger fires its 88 mm main gun.
There’s no escaping it. The enemy has had enough time to reload, and they will not need a second shot… one will be just enough to finish it. As long as they do it before we cross the border.
I ground my teeth as I heard–
「Jeanne d’Arc! You I.U. drop-out! Burn in the flames of Hell! They suit you!」
From a megaphone, Katze and the rest of Regiment Hex… sang in chorus.
What the heck!? You’re devoting your whole mind to singing a song to slander someone–
Thinking that, I looked down at Jeanne in the machine gunner station…
Her ice blue eyes… were spread wide,
「… I-I…」
Fortunately, she had gripped the machine gun mounted at the front of the Ha-Go and held on… but now she stared in bewilderment.
What should we do? This situation is strange.
Flustered, I heard a voice in my ear:
『D-don’t listen to the witches’ song! It is their「Fear Song」, and they used it demoralise enemy troops then incite civil disruption. Magic users will be affected!』
Meiya’s flustered voice came through the communication device.
「Jeanne.. cover your ears! They’re after you!」
After hearing my shout, Jeanne–
Seemingly engulfed in by the technique, she began to shake.
「That’s right, Tohyama. I… I am a girl who goes around making schemes. In truth… it is because I am weak. The truth is that I am ashamed to be with you because I am so weak… So, I… I…」
Jeanne was so entirely cursed that tears formed in her eyes.
「…!」
I don’t have any kind of ani-magic technique to counter this–
As the Tiger pulled closer to us to increase their accuracy, it slowed… then turned its main gun toward us. The range is 400 metres. They are going to fire. The 88 mm shell is certain death.
While hurriedly turning the turret that wasn’t even equipped with a gun of half that calibre–
「–Jeanne」
I shouted in a loud voice, trying to drown out their song.
That song was robbing her of her courage–
And right now, courage is what Jeanne needs most. That’s it.
I have to encourage her–Jeanne, the Diamond Dust Witch.
I have to do it. I have to push through.
In a flash of Hysteria Mode, the method came to me–
I have to overcome that annoying Tiger’s main gun…!
「Jeanne, are you going to let them keep saying that? Chivalry demands an equal response for an insult.」
「…Tohyama…」
『As this world changes, knights of Peace gather together with new emotion beneath the emblem of a holy prayer!』
Meiya sang from the communication device–
I would guess that it was a song to oppose the witches’ curse.
「I…I…」
A look of strength returned to Jeanne’s eyes. Good, just little more.
「—Shima, stop. We’re going to fight the Tiger one on one.」
「Wh… what are you saying? Tohyama-san! If you shoot, won’t it just bounce off again?」
「It’s fine, so stop. They have insulted my Jeanne. That is something I cannot allow. What’s more– we’ve done enough running, don’t you think so, Jeanne!?」
Jeanne’s heart was being stolen by an enemy, and I was getting a slightly berserker feeling–as the commander of the tank, I shouted a high-handed order.
Shima, overpowered, swallowed. and with a *Cla-long!* *Cla-long!* The reversing tank…
Came to a stop.
Now the Ha-Go faced the approaching Tiger. It was a direct confrontation.
「Do not worry. An artillery battle is battle of mathematics. My mathematics scores have improved somewhat since Ikebukuro High.」
「…?」
Teary-eyed, Shima trembled, and the ribbon on top of her head looked up at me…
Good, all interfering vehicle oscillations have stopped.
Thanks to that fact, Jeanne’s machine gun muzzle, which had been pointing every which way– came to rest somewhat in the direction of the Tiger’s gun turret. That was good.
In front and to the right of us. black smoke from the V-1 was rising. Just like my anger.
Coming to a stop directly in front of us, the Tiger–
『–Halt!』
It stopped. The range was 200 metres. Looking out from the tank, it was short range.
Then, the 88 mm gun–
Fixed it’s aim directly toward us.
I took stock of the barrel’s trajectory.
There was no doubt that it was would hit squarely on top of the front armour plate, blasting and scattering us to pieces.
…If you are going to scatter us, then come on and do it…!
I– closed my eyes.
Then with my Hysteria Mode increased sense of hearing, I deduced the enemy position from the sounds transmitted to my communication device.
If I concentrate, I can even hear the sounds of breathing and heartbeats. Doing that, I formed a mental image of the interior of the Tiger.
Then, I attempted to predict the exact moment that they would fire. Then 0.001 seconds later.
I felt it. Their killing intent. I moved in that instant. Like a kendo master.
Slowly opening my eyes, I altered the 377 mmm gun’s direction–
I pressed my shoulder against the pad on the sight.
Then I took aim.
Not at the Tiger, but a point in the empty sky.
The Ha-Go light tank has a peculiar gun mounting structure. The gunner is able to adjust the muzzle up, down, left, and right, and it also has a『shoulder rest sight』.
It is a very intuitive mechanism, and well suited to Hysteria Mode. Thanks to that… I can do this…!
Then, using my knee, I gently pressed Jeanne’s shoulder to make a slight correction to the machine gun’s orientation.
Jeanne, you have had some experiences where you were not confident in yourself before. That time at the school festival’s Cosplay Cafe and dragging me into the European Front of FEW.
The enemy that has known you since your time in I.U. is taking advantage of that fact to dishearten you with this song.
Under this curse, you may or may not be able to pull the trigger at the most crucial moment.
But there’s Butei Law, Article 1: Believe in you comrades and help them.
I believe in you. I will stop doubting my friends. Believe in me and overcome that cursed song… I believe you will pull that trigger.
If you want to know why, it’s because you really are a strong girl. You made that much painfully clear to me in Butei High’s underground storage area last May.
Now… I heard it… the sound of Everita’s intake of breath!
「–Fire, Jeanne!」
『–Fire!』
Following our shouts, Jeanne’s machine gun, the Tiger’s main gun, and the Ha-Go’s gun–
–In Hysteria Mode’s perception, the world slowed to a stop–
They fired almost simultaneously, but there was a definite sequence.
In a line, several of Jeanne’s machine gun bullets flew out into the air.
They approached the 88 mm shell that was describing a parabola while spinning.
Then seeing that their trajectories were aligned, I fired the 37 mm armour piercing shell.
My shell followed behind Jeanne’s spaced line of bullets–
As each of them contacted one by one, they sent up innumerable sparks into the night sky.
–Like a constellation.
As the machine gun bullets contacted, I made the final minute adjustments with the shoulder mounted sight and–
*Clang!*
The 37 mm shell collided with the bottom of the 88 mm shell, delivering a counterstrike uppercut.
The flow of time resumed–
–*Ka-shing!*
The 37 mm shell ricocheted off the 88 mm shell and flew off into space over our heads like a meteor–
–*Ka-thump!*
It impacted the ground near the border, sending up a violent shockwave and a cloud of dust.
… I did it! Billiard with a cannon shell–
If I had to name it, I’d call it Patriot.
It was an excellent technique, if I do say so myself.
It is impossible to knock back an 88 mm shell with a less powerful 37 mm shell, but it is possible to hit and divert its trajectory. That is what I did.
Having the aid of the machine gun made this technique possible for the first time. The muzzle velocity of the shell, compared to the bullets, was greater and could not be altered. So, in the end, I compensated for the lag by having the machine gun fire first.
As I did that–
「To-Tohyama…just now…」
The beautiful machine gunner looked up at me with wide ice blue eyes.
「Amazing–Jeanne! You really are a strong girl. If I had been alone in this, the tank would be our coffin. Merci. 」
With an exclamation of surprise coming from the girls over the communications device, I praised Jeanne.
「W-we did it, didn’t we…?」
Hearing my words, Shima’s jaw dropped with a gasp.
「The mathematics were simple. This was a strategic shift of tactics, Shima. The condition for victory was not the destruction of the enemy vehicle. Merely reaching Belgium. Don’t you approve of me not destroying such a national treasure?」
「I do! I do! Tiger-san and I can go on a date and make memories I will remember my whole life! –Aaah!」
Executing a magnificent counter rotation manoeuvre and headed toward the border river again.
Inside the rattling and slightly swaying tank, Jeanne… said nothing.
「…」
I felt her take the back of my hand and press it to her lips.
It was as if the first-generation Jeanne d’Arc had appeared like an angel to perform a miracle.
*******************************************
The river was barely a metre wide… and we crossed it.
Seeming to have given up the chase, the Tiger stopped on the opposite side. Due to the squawking and hysterical screeching that came from director Everita, I had to take off the communication device.
Now within Belgium, a quiet one-way road stretched out in front of us…
The tank began operating erratically, and before long smoke began coming up from the radiator.
–There wasn’t a fence at the national border, and we only knew that we had changed countries because of a road sign.
On the road, Meiya and Nakasorachi came out to meet us as Watson sat inside a Volkswagen bus, gripping the steering wheel.
Then, upon boarding the bus…
「We’ll drive through the night to reach the capital city of Brussels. Unfortunately, a party of the I.U. remnant warkhawks spearheaded by Patra have invaded Paris. They routed the resident DEEN forces who fled north. As of now, Brussels is just barely under DEEN’s control, but… soon the allied and enemy fronts will clash.」
Watson whispered to me as the bus pulled onto the highway.
I delayed Regiment Hex’s advance into Italy, and I confirmed their location…
But those tactical victories were fruitless…
In the big picture we are losing ground. And continuing to do so.
[END]
**********************************************
[START GO FOR THE NEXT]
Go For The NEXT!!!
The next day, the Volkswagen bus reached Brussels.
It was a French-speaking area but much smaller than Paris. The buildings were all 3-4 storeys in Western-style and packed closely in rows with their walls touching each other. Looking up from the street at the narrow sliver of sky, it was slightly oppressive.
As I stared at this scene like that out of a Western fairy-tail…
Nakasorachi and Shima are boarding a bus at Brussels-Central railway station to return home.
Somewhat concerned for their safety, Watson led them to visit the CONNECT and LOGI departments at Brussels Butei High. That should fulfil the requirements of the school trip.
Even so… Now these two unrelated people will not be dragged into our personal fight in FEW.
I’m relieved.
In any case, thank-you. Nakasorachi. Shima. Without being asked, you lent me your aid in a dangerous military operation. When I expressed my thanks:
「It’…n…thing.」
「It’s only natural to help your friends on your Team!」
They each answered, respectively… They reminded me once more that we were a Team.
–Remaining in Brussels were Jeanne, Meiya, Watson, and I. The members of DEEN.
We entered Liberty Mason’s breath-taking hotel in the centre of the town…
Watson, who was passing for a guy, and myself, and the girls Meiya and Jeanne each checked into 2 separate rooms.
The exterior of the hotel… looked like something out of a fairy-tale, but inside it was a strictly modern hotel.
Thankfully, we can rest here. This is a good place to rest for bit.
With that in mind, after replenishing my stock of bullets from Watson’s supply, I laid down on the bed and passed out cold…
…When I opened my eyes, it was already night. Wah! I slept for 12 hours. I guess I’m like Kana.
On the other twin bed, Watson was sleeping blissfully.
Oh, man! Her sleeping face is cute!
Thank goodness my Hysteria Mode had worn off. In that condition, I might have pulled her adorable cheeks. That could have been a problem.
「…」
Leaving Watson to sleep in the room… I thought to head over to the restaurant attached to the hotel for some food and left the room.
Upon reaching the lobby…
「Tohyama.」
Jeanne came from the direction of the restroom.
「Oh, Jeanne. Good Morning… that’s not right, is it? Have you had dinner yet?」
「…No, not yet.」
「Well, you treated me in Paris. I guess it’s my turn. That way we’re even.」
I said this unusually generous statement after entering the restaurant and confirming that it was inexpensive… to which Jeanne responded with a slightly troubled expression.
「If that is the case, then I want to go out. Follow me.」
With those few words, she ushered me out of the hotel.
Crap… I’ve brought this upon myself, haven’t I?
What am I going to do if she takes me to an expensive restaurant? I don’t even have any Euro.
******************************************************
Brussels was further north that Paris and it was cool… but walking by the road it wasn’t so cold. This was because the large buildings were ranged side-by-side and had tall walls. This kind of cramped architecture is best to ward off the cold.
While thinking these thoughts, I followed Jeanne down the cobbled night-time street…
The alleys were darker and filthier than the streets in Japan as we came to what appeared to be the business district.
Perhaps in some nostalgic taste, the roads were still lit by gas lamps.
Although it was a business district, there were few people on the street, and it was rather quiet… For someone who has been called ‘gloomy’, I can’t really say anything, though.
Since night had already fallen, many of the shops had already closed for the day…
But there was an extravagant looking theatre open on the corner of a street.
The signboard said:『L’Opera』– and from the Palais Garnier, I had learned the only French I could read, and I could tell that it said,『Opera house』.
「I thought only the Palais Garnier was an opera house?」
「All operatic theatres are opera houses.」
「Ah, I didn’t pick up on that in Paris.」
Other than this brief exchange…
Jeanne and I only spoke a few words.
All of tonight–rather, ever since leaving the hotel– Jeanne hasn’t said a word. Is she mad at me again?
Jeanne must intend to increase her self-confidence while in Luxembourg, but a woman’s heart is like an autumn sky. Like a cat’s eye, a girl’s emotions are subject to fickle changes. Just like Aria.
Saying such a thing, however, would be stepping on a landmine, and furthermore, I’m the type inclined to actively avoid talking with girls… so I walked along with Jeanne silently.
As she turned the corner by the opera house–
「…Tohyama, I’m sorry!」
As she disappeared around the corner, she shouted this in a tearful voice for some reason.
…Sorry?
「What do you mean?」
I asked as I followed her round the corner–
–But she was gone.
Jeanne had vanished like smoke.
「…Jeanne?」
I looked all around as I walked down the street…
–**I gave you my music, made your song take wing, and now how you’ve repaid me, denied me and betrayed me**–
The orchestral music and choir song from『The Phantom of the Opera』filtered out from the Brussels opera house.
The building must not be soundproofed very well.
Then as the song reached its crescendo–
–*Boom!* *Crash!*
The sound of impact almost coinciding with the report, the street directly in front of me was blasted.
「…!」
Just now… it felt as if my eardrums were going to burst from the sound of the shot but from the way the street was smashed, it wasn’t a bullet from a gun…
It was probably… something meant to take down a bear or water buffalo with twice the power of a 44 Magnum–
It was a .454 Casull. The hollow point cap of the bullet sparkled in the crushed cobblestones in front of me.
If it struck a human head or abdomen, it would send a mangled mess of flesh flying.
「…」
A bead of sweat rolled down my forehead.
The shot– came from behind, above, and short range.
An enemy is here but then why would Jeanne lead me to such a place? I don’t understand.
But I couldn’t move beyond that thought. My brain refused to work beyond that point.
At the moment, I was operating on poorly grasped instinct– reacting to the fact of someone shooting at me. The first bullet had stopped me in my tracks. I can’t make the wrong move now. If I panic, I’ll be shot for sure.
–This killing intent–…!
Feeling almost strong enough to warp space, the feeling came from behind me, and up at an angle.
…That’s where they are! What’s more, they’re the type that wants to avoid a confrontation. The feeling was different than a person with ESP or a monster. It was also different than the sword masters Kaname and Sherlock who were able to restrain their killing intent. If I had to describe it, I would say that it possessed a different quality. Like a being many times removed from humanity.
That was the enemy I faced.
「…」
In order to see what the enemy looked like, I slowly turned around, and as I did so… I gulped down the saliva in my mouth as I raised my eyes to where the shot had come from.
Then, atop an old-fashioned gas lamp 5 metres tall, there was–
A man, completely robed in black, sitting with one knee up.
His hair was– black. His face– was covered in the opposite way an opera masque would, the black fabric collar of his coat tied together to conceal it. Like a ninja.
His pitch-black boots were covered in silver buckles.
As he stretched out his leg, I saw a jet-black long coat.
Two belts crisscrossed the coat in in an X pattern connected to the belt at his waist.
From his belt hung a shotgun. A Winchester M1887. It is a shortened barrel style that is regulated in Japan. The guard was also cut off, and it looked a gun that would be very useful in combat.
Gripped in the fingerless gloves he wore on both hands, was a Taurus Raging Bull. It was an 8.375-inch barrel model. That’s what must have fire the Casull bullet.
But the danger from this guy– isn’t from his gun.
Crisscrossed on his back were two Japanese swords in black sheaths.
Those are the danger.
From experience, I could tell intuitively that he was dangerous, but could not define exactly what it was.
「…」
He appeared to be about the same age as me, and a bit more solidly built, but he… looked at me without speaking.
Despite the fact that half his face was hidden… he was obviously Asian.
This completely black figure seemed to be all of one colour–
Except for his right eye.
The pupil of his right eye– shone crimson like Son’s. But it probably wasn’t a laser
It’s a darker and deeper shade. It gave me a bad feeling…
Then a moment, later, as I looked into his eyes, I understood. These are the eyes… of someone that has killed people.
「…Are you… some kind of… advance force for GRENEDA?」
Uneasy with the silent tension, I spoke–
「I am not.」
Was the reply. His Japanese was fluent, and the enunciation clear. He must be Japanese.
Alright. I can’t act scared. That wasn’t so bad. Let’s talk a bit more. At this rate, I might be able to figure out what is going on.
「You… have a bit of a problem. It looks like you’re a chuunibyou. At least that’s what Riko would say.」
No sooner had the words left my mouth…
「Riko Mine is not here.」
He answered, the cloth muffling his voice.
I see. Wasn’t this in one of our preliminary investigations?
That confirmed it.
This is — 『Bewitching Blade』
One of the pair of mercenaries hired by GRENEDA. There’s no mistake.
「You use such a huge gun. What’s more, you use hollow points. I can’t stand for that. I want to see your permit for those.」
I said, acting like a Butei…
「Such foolish talk annoys me. I’ve already determined it.」
「Determined it…? What do you mean?」
「There are a lot of variables. There are about 65 in order to obtain 100% certainty.」
「What are you trying to figure out?」
「How to kill you.」
How to… kill me…?
I furrowed my eyebrows as I looked up at the entirely black『Bewitching Blade』–
He looked up at the narrow slit of night sky of Brussels.
「– It’s a beautiful moon. It will be the last you will see. Look well.」
Then, replacing his gun in his black leather hip holster, I watched him– draw those two dangerous blades.
Then he dropped his gaze back down toward me. He was ready to fight.
「No matter how long it takes, I want to understand. Let’s talk.」
With a ring of steel, he drew his swords from their sheaths–
「We will start at 50%. I’ll give you 3 minutes.」
「3 minutes…. What do you mean!?」
–What is this…!?
「After 3 minutes, you are already dead.」5
–Who they heck is this guy…!?
Go For the Next!!!
[END GO FOR THE NEXT]
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[START AUTHOR NOTES]
Hey there! Climbing Mount Blanc by cable car, it’s Akamatsu!
Right now, volume 15 of the novel, 8 of the comic, and 6 Hidan no Aria AA are all out. As per usual, the summer is an Aria-fest! I’ll happily strike the festival drum!
Now then, lets return to spend lots of time in the『Hidan no Aria Q&A Corner.』
『Q: What kinds of Kinji’s Hysteria Mode are there?』
A: Hysteria Mode has been around since the first volume. As a matter of fact, it’s Kinji’s own made-up word for the medical curiosity condition known as Hysteria Savant Syndrome.
Kinji not only experiences the usual『Normale』, but in the course of the story, there are a few sub-types.
The first was shown by Kana/Kinichi when he was close to death,『Agonizante』.
When a girl is being taken away,『Berse』appears and it is 1.7 times more powerful than normal Hysteria Mode, but it’s total mental focus on attacking is a double-edged blade.
Once Berse has been experienced several times,『Regalmente』appears for the girls he recognises as part of his herd and is 1.2 times more powerful than the ordinary variety.
In Cast Off Table, Kinji used『Wiseman』which is a sort of after-effect… Instead of increasing fighting strength, it makes him unable to be excited by women, but it’s hard to pull off.
As for you readers– won’t you all please pray that Kinji isn’t cornered to the point he has to use Agonizante or Regalmente. At least, those are my feeling on the matter!
**************************************
After this there are spoilers for the main story…
In this volume we are introduced to the mysterious man,『Bewitching Blade』. He is a crossover protagonist from one of my other works publish by Dengeki Bunko『Yagate Maken no Alicebell』(which already has 3 volumes published.)
He is a difficult enemy to deal with and he caught Kinji in an ambush– but Butei have to deal with these things all the time. Before that happened though, I’m sure that (the Kinji of the future) would definitely like to buy『Yagate Maken no Alicebell’s Assortment of Heroines』planned to go on sale next month. Please be sure to check it out!
Now then, until next time– May we meet before long in a Parisian bookshop.
A certain day in August 2014.
Akamatsu Chuugaku
[END AUTHOR NOTES]
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[START ILLUSTRATOR NOTES]
This time Son-chan was on the cover! How did you like it?
Kinji is really popular with ladies, isn’t he! Popular Kinji.
I thought about drawing Katze, but in Hidan no Aria there are a lot of bobbed hair and straight-banged girls, so do you think that’s Akamatsu-sensei’s type?
I’ll have to ask him sometime.
See you next time!
[END OF ILLUSTRATOR NOTES]
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1. Brigadeführer, in German.
2. These people are early 20th century (1900’s) Japanese cultural icons. An admiral, medical researcher, and poet, respectively.
3. ‘Bone Control’ in Japanese/
4. Makuuchi or makunouchi, is the top division of the six divisions of professional sumo. Its size is fixed at 42 wrestlers, ordered into five ranks according to their ability as defined by their performance in previous tournaments.–Wikipedia
5. YES! this is *that* (in)famous line! Not sure if it is intentional or not, but I found it hilarious!
Silvered Tongue 