Chapter 28

◊ ◊ ◊

The match against Ninth High was set in a "Valley" setting.

The layout of the arena was an artificial valley shaped like a Japanese "<". If the water was moving, there would be a difference between being upriver or downriver, hence rather than being referred to as a valley, this was also described as a long "<" shaped lake surrounded by cliffs. No, it wasn't deep enough to be a lake (the greatest depth was only 50 cm or so), so maybe it should be called a "<" shaped "pond".

This match was the perfect stage for Mikihiko's solo performance. A white fog covered the entire length of the arena.

From the side of the completely blinded audience came a loud shushing noise before all returned to silence.

After all, for the audience to be so affected by the magic competition and the sheer difficulty of maintaining this magic was quite telling on who owned the advantage.

In addition, the First High players were only covered by light fog whereas the players from Ninth High were enshrouded in a dense fog.

Under the effect of the mist, the players from Ninth High had great difficulty approaching the First High monolith.

They repeatedly sought to dispel the mist, but after several half- successful attempts to blow the mist away, the pure white cover swiftly returned to rob them of their sight as if mocking their efforts.

Even if they summoned the wind to blow away the mist, the replacement air was still filled with mist, making this a pointless gesture. Also, any attempt to raise the temperature only prompted the

"lake" to evaporate and increase the unpleasantness.

The Ancient Magic responsible for creating this "Barrier" of mist was unrelated to the level of moisture and simply congregated the vapor in the air. Even if the temperature was raised, this would only increase the amount of water vapor and make the mist even thicker. "Barrier" Magic naturally included the "Sealing" concept, so even manipulating the air currents would only cycle the air filled with mist.

Fundamentally, trying to sustain magic on a vague target was one of the weaker areas of modern magic.

In order to use modern magic to dispel this "Magical Mist", they had to identify the magic that Mikihiko used to create this area — "Barrier", otherwise no countermeasure would be effective. The new students from Ninth High appeared to be lacking in their knowledge of Ancient Magic.

Besides having a slightly denser cloud of artificial mist hanging over the area, there was nothing that surpassed the laws of nature.

Since there was no paradoxical effect, there were no signs of the magic weakening. Likewise, there was no effect that locked people in place.

The only aspect directly being restricted was visibility and subsequently, mobility.

The attackers from Ninth High advanced along the cliffs with trepidation. Tatsuya took a quick glance before diving into the mist and easily arriving at Ninth High's position.

The mist intentionally became thinner around his immediate position, which wasn't a problem to maintain if he was only walking quickly. Then again, even if there was zero visibility, that would pose little problem to Tatsuya anyway.

Here, he didn't have to worry about the audience watching him, so he could freely use his vision to identify the entities around him.

Looping behind the unsuspecting defender from Ninth High, Tatsuya fired the "key" into the monolith.

Upon hearing the "outer lid" of the monolith falling away, the defender frantically whirled around, but Tatsuya had long since evacuated.

This time, Tatsuya didn't need to summon the spirits.

Mikihiko was the one controlling the spirit that upheld the barrier of mist. Within this mist, nothing could escape Mikihiko's "eyes".

The match between First and Ninth High ended in First High's victory without a single shot being fired.

◊ ◊ ◊

The finals would take place after the compensatory round.

Regardless of how long matches lasted, each match for Monolith Code never exceeded 30 minutes. Thus, the finals were comfortably set for 3:30 PM, which was two hours from now.

Tatsuya was in charge of CAD calibration, so he opted to stay in the competition area for the next two hours, but Mikihiko and Leo needed to blow off some steam, so they left the competition area.

—There's no way he could last if he saw those siblings sticking together like glue again. Maybe that was the reason why...

They arranged to meet up one hour before the match, so how they spent their time until then was their personal choice.

Leo said he wanted to grab a bite from the cafeteria before heading back to his room to rest.

Mikihiko wasn't as gluttonous, so he elected to visit the tourism room on the highest floor of the hotel.

The hotel was erected near the Fuji Exercise Grounds, so the tourism room had a direct view of Mt. Fuji.

The "Divine Earth Magic" of the Yoshida Family was Ancient Magic that belonged to the Shinto System and more specifically the branch concerned with Earth Deities within the Shinto System (deification of the country).

Mt. Fuji had a special meaning for Magicians who used Ancient Magic from the Shinto system.

The god enshrined at Mt. Fuji was joined with one of the heavenly gods, so Mt. Fuji was worshiped by both heaven and earth denominations.

Even excluding this religious meaning, "Spiritual Mt. Fuji" was a locale that powerful magics revolved around.

Walking out onto the exposed balcony of the tourism room was like bathing in the mountain's aura. Mikihiko had this in mind as he ascended to the highest level, but there was an unexpected individual waiting for him.

"Ah, Mikihiko-kun, why are you here?"

The one turned to ask him was Erika, who was wearing a straw hat to shade herself from the sun as she placed her elbows on the railing and gazed upward towards Mt. Fuji.

"I came to see Mt. Fuji...

Erika, why are you here alone?"

As Mikihiko said, the tourism room — including the exposed balcony on the highest level — was empty save for Erika's presence.

No, Mikihiko was here now, so the amount doubled.

This was only natural, considering all the visitors today would naturally be here for the Nine Schools Competition.

Even though it was the break period, the match for Third Place was about to start soon. Besides Mikihiko, who had a special reason for visiting, anyone choosing to visit this tourism room that could only see Mt. Fuji now must have brain damage.

"I probably wanted to be alone for a while."

Seeing Erika turn her gaze back to the scenery and the loneliness accompanying her face, Mikihiko felt a little flustered.

This was hardly the time to retreat or just stand there, so he had no choice — at least his consciousness told him he "had no choice" — but to sidle along Erika.

"Mikihiko-kun."

Erika spoke with her gaze still fixated on Japan's highest mountain. "Eh, what?"

—Something's awry. "Don't you feel it?"

"Eh?"

"You came to bathe in the aura of the mountain, right? Are you properly soaking it in?"

Though the words were the same, her voice was altogether different.

It was as if her tone was just as usual, but still different at the same time.

Leaning against the railing, Erika's expression was incredibly earnest, more sincere than any time in the past four months, nay, the last couple years.

The last time he saw this expression was before she cut her hair short, when it was even longer than when she allowed it to grow out last spring. Two years ago, she never loosened her grip on the sword in her hand...

"...Mikihiko-kun?"

"Ah, sorry. Uh, yeah, just as Erika said."

Mikihiko stammered a reply and finally realized what was wrong.

— Erika was calling him "Mikihiko" —

"I came to soak in the aura."

"Not that."

"Eh?"

"I'm not asking that. ...

Are you properly feeling the aura around the mountain?"

Stupefied by her oddly intent gaze, Mikihiko braced himself and adjusted his breathing.

He expelled all the air within his lungs and breathed deep.

Maintaining a proper pace was important, but imagination was even more so.

He was taking in and releasing the air in controlled motions.

And he wasn't breathing in and expelling, but expelling and then breathing.

After taking two or three breaths Mikihiko's body was suffused with power. This wasn't like the "crumbs" from psions or pushions, but was something closer to the original oscillations of the waves, also known as a "power" called "prana".

Mikihiko perfectly absorbed the prana surrounding the peaks. After verifying this with her own eyes, Erika let out a restrained smile that was wholly unlike her.

—A somewhat lonely smile. "Erika...?"

"See, you still have it in you!"

"...I'm sorry, but I have no idea what you're talking about."

This wouldn't be the first time someone had spouted some abstract comment without sparing a thought towards others, but today, Mikihiko felt that it was more like his fault for not understanding her.

"Mikihiko-kun, have you noticed? Today, you were able to wield magic like before the incident, when you were known as the 'prodigy of the Yoshida Family'!"

"Eh?"

"No, you're not the same as before, you have made great strides compared to then. Regardless of whether it was Sense Tuning, the barrier of Mist, the absorption of prana, they have become as natural as breathing for you."

He didn't say: how is it possible.

Likewise, Mikihiko didn't say, why would you say that.

He was well aware what sort of "eye" the "Swordsman of Chiba" Erika possessed.

"Isn't that wonderful!"

With a sudden "pah" and a slap on the back, Mikihiko nearly staggered.

"In this state, Miki has nothing to fear from Third High! Go get them!"

"My name is Mikihiko!"

Erika suddenly reverted to her usual state and departed without a reply. Mikihiko finally relaxed as he called out his usual response to her retreating back.

Exactly why he did so or what he was concerned about did not cross Mikihiko's mind.

◊ ◊ ◊

Tatsuya, who should be stuck with his sister like glue (that was only the wild mass guessing from their teammates), was summoned to the entrance of the grounds shortly after the two departed.

"Ono-sensei, thank you for your hard work."

Haruka was the one who called him out here.

"Hey, saying thank you for your hard work to an elder...

You're aware of what you're saying, right?"

At Tatsuya's mischievous smirk, Haruka's shoulders drooped helplessly.

"...I guess that's what my position has turned into... A supporting actor whose secrets have been exposed, only to be buried within the

'ignorant masses'..."

"What are you talking about. You're spouting nonsense."

"No worries. I'm a nonsensical woman anyway."

"...I think it's about time you returned what I placed in your keeping.

I don't have much time."

Seeing Tatsuya reach out a hand, Haruka playfully sighed.

Even if she didn't say it, her expression clearly said: "Can't you cooperate a little." Despite this, she understood that time was of the essence, so she obediently handed the electric carrier (carry-on baggage with electric wheels attached to facilitate movement) over to Tatsuya.

"Seriously... I really wish someone would actually reward me a little. I'm a life counselor, not an errand boy."

"Our sensei was the one who asked Ono-sensei to do this, not me. Still... Let me think for a moment. If you're unhappy with these trivial tasks, allow me to ask you something more in line with your actual job."

"No, it's not like I wanted an actual task."

"It's tax-free income...

You really don't want it?"

Haruka's eyes sparkled with an easily understood wavering.

...Is this sort of kind disposition (and not "personality") truly suited for intelligence work? Tatsuya watched her in a taunting manner. He didn't have to wait very long.

"...I give up. It's our duty to assist students deviating from the right path. This isn't the time to say I'm off duty or I haven't got the time."

So, she was looking for an excuse to make this easier on herself, Tatsuya thought.

However—

"Alas, that's not the task I had in mind. I'm referring to your other line of work."

"...What exactly do you want me to do?"

Haruka was immediately on high alert.

Is it really alright for her to be this transparent? This time, Tatsuya was seriously concerned.

Forget it, even if she messed up by feigning silliness and punished with "this" and "that", those were not related to him in any way.

"No Head Dragon... I want to know the current HQ for the Hong

Kong International Criminal Organization 'No Head Dragon'."

Haruka frantically glanced around them and closed in on Tatsuya as if she was going to hug him.

"How do you know about No Head Dragon!?"

While her tone was agitated, Haruka didn't forget to lower her volume as she asked him. Still, even if she asked, this wasn't a question he could answer. Tatsuya's relationship with Kazama and the Independent Magic-Equipped Battalion was still classified. That was a direct order from their aunt, the current head of the Yotsuba Family. Even if he answered with something like "I heard it from somewhere else", there was no guarantee that some trace of this relationship could not be exposed.

"It's only natural that I would investigate the culprits intending to do me harm."

Hence Tatsuya chose this vague answer that could be applied towards anything. Nevertheless, Haruka correctly interpreted this to mean the recent obstructions in the Nine Schools Competition.

"...What devilry are you up to now? 'Public Safety' and 'Internal

Affairs' have both been mobilized for this case. There's no need for Shiba-kun to act on this!"

Haruka was still whispering. From their posture, any bystander would mistake this for a troublesome relationship.

Miyuki posed no difficulty, so long as Honoka, Shizuku, or any of the others didn't see them, Tatsuya thought.

"Currently, there are no wheels in motion. Still, if retaliation becomes necessary, but the enemy's location remains unknown, that would be a little troubling. ...Speaking of which, I think our current proximity may cause some misunderstanding." Haruka quickly jerked back.

Maybe this came from an elder's pride, but she was using a placating smile to cover her internal discomfiture.

It's about time to seriously advise her to abandon the intelligence work, Tatsuya thought.

...That being said, he never thought of retracting his request.

"...Insurance, is it?"

"That interpretation would be acceptable."

After carefully examining him, she swiftly nodded. "...Understood. Give me one day."

"Impressive! You only need one day?"

This was pure, worry-free praise.

Haruka was someone who wore her heart on her sleeve and could only smile in embarrassment.

◊ ◊ ◊

As Tatsuya dragged the electric carrier back to the pavilion, the students on duty all gazed at him with interest. Completely ignoring the fact that he was the center of attention, Tatsuya retrieved something from the bag.

"...Wind breakers?"

Mayumi approached Tatsuya with nary a thought and asked as she examined the object in his hands.

"No, these are mantles."

Tatsuya raised the black fabric and unfurled them.

It was a Western mantle that would extend to the floor even on someone of his height.

"Those too?"

"Those are robes."

After depositing the black mantle on the table, this time he pulled out a gray fabric. This one was a long robe with a hood attached.

"What... exactly are you going to do with these?"

There were "?" marks floating all over the pavilion. Only Miyuki could tell at first glance and couldn't help but burst into laughter.

"That's for the match. Thankfully, they made it in time."

"Onii-sama, wouldn't that be against the rules?"

Setting aside the completely confused Mayumi and the others, Miyuki asked Tatsuya with a degree of seriousness.

"I don't believe there will be a problem since we handed in the CADs in time. The rule book didn't say that we are forbidden from wearing uniforms inscribed with magic themselves."

Hearing his answer to Miyuki, the number of "?" marks on Mayumi's head increased by one as she asked Tatsuya.

"Magic inscriptions?"

"Correct. This is done by combining the principle of Engraving Magic with the mediums from Ancient Magic. The mantle and robe include enchantments that facilitate the user using magic."

"Supplementary effects...

There should no problem if no specific technique was incorporated within..."

Feeling Mayumi's gaze, Suzune nodded as she replied.

"There is no violation here. Specifically, there isn't a rule for something that complex."

"If there is a problem, we can just abandon them. It's not like we cannot give battle without them."

Mayumi slightly creased her eyebrows as Tatsuya turned around. "Hey, Tatsuya-kun."

Her anxiety far outweighed the unease in her voice.

"Since we're still in the competition, everyone has kept a lid on the celebratory mood. The moment we advanced to the finals, our victory in the Newcomers Division was already assured. So please, don't push yourself too much!"

"Understood."

Even without her saying so, Tatsuya had already largely given up on this match.

—Because at this time, we haven't...

After leaving the examination of the mantles and robes to Isori (the Isori Family were renowned for their expertise in Engraving Magic, not that Isori himself hid his personal interest either), Tatsuya left the pavilion to relax himself.

When he was appointed as one of the substitutes, the mission he received from Mayumi was to clinch First High's victory in the Newcomers Division.

The moment they advanced to the finals of Monolith Code — in other words, right now, Tatsuya had already accomplished his objective.

He was carefully warming up to prevent injury during the match.

Bruises or scratches were meaningless to him, but if there was a major fracture or artery being severed, he had to take precautions against his classified abilities automatically activating.

Even if he could voluntarily halt the process, whether he could do so in time was another story. His personal restoration ability would immediately complete the repair processes in the blink of an eye.

The Nine Schools Competition was being recorded. Even if no one could consciously catch the instant this occurred, future playbacks could still capture the moment.

As if reminding himself all over again, he continued to work through his exercises. During this, Miyuki also left the pavilion, but seeing as she wasn't on urgent business, Tatsuya allowed himself to finish his calisthenics.

"Onii-sama, please take this towel."

She handed him a sublimely wet and cold towel.

Miyuki had been standing for a considerable amount of time in the blazing summer heat, yet the towel felt as if it was freshly removed from the icebox... Upon learning that this was her area of expertise, this fact was no longer surprising.

By paying attention to all the minute details, she was certainly a sister who pampered him, Tatsuya thought.

In normal circumstances, hordes of men would undoubtedly pursue her at the cost of their lives.

No, even in the present, his sister was still probably capable of sending men to their doom with a word. Even setting himself aside, though he would probably be the first man into the breach, Tatsuya felt a slight chill as he considered his sister's future.

"Onii-sama, is there something on my face?"

Even though she didn't seriously believe that something was on her face, Miyuki had no other way of interrogating her brother who was watching her with an indecipherable expression.

—Tatsuya didn't answer. Answering would only muddy the issue. "Onii-sama..."

At Tatsuya muddling through the question, Miyuki didn't press onward.

"...

It's almost time for the finals. Our next opponent will be a difficult one..."

"...

Indeed."

Bluffing was irrelevant at this point.

Even if this wasn't a competition and live battle instead, with both sides going all out without restrains, Tatsuya had no confidence that he could "triumph" over the two of them at the same time, nay even if he was against Ichijou Masaki alone.

"Under a state of restricted power and ability ... for one who belongs to the side that restricts such as myself, to go and say such a thing is illogical, and may arouse your displeasure, but..."

Miyuki hesitated briefly as she slowly drooped her head, losing her nerve to speak each time.

Then, she resolutely raised her head and shyly declared.

"...Even so, I have faith that Onii-sama will not lose to anyone!"

Without waiting for Tatsuya's reply, she turned back to the pavilion with the lightness of a sparrow. Watching his sister's departing figure, Tatsuya stood there for some time.

(Seriously, as you will...)

As Miyuki herself said, she was one of the key cogs within the system that limited Tatsuya's abilities.

One of the key reasons behind why he was unable to use his true strength to display his indomitable might was undoubtedly Miyuki.

That being said, Tatsuya didn't believe — that Miyuki was so willful.

Faith that he would not lose to anyone was the hope of she who wished of him to remain unbeatable.

Tatsuya's intellect was not mature enough to completely understand the subtleties behind this.

Yet, Tatsuya could understand these feelings.

Maybe he should say he was able to understand it only because Miyuki was the one who made the wish of him.

This was not someone giving orders or instructions, but a mental characteristic that was naturally expressing itself.

As you will, referred to exactly that.

Defeat was no longer an option in the next match. But as the saying goes, easier said than done.

No matter how he calculated the matter, the odds were stacked against him. Tatsuya couldn't help but sigh at this.

◊ ◊ ◊

After the end of the consolation game, the setting for the final match was announced to be the "Open Field".

Hearing this, both sides had equally illuminating reactions. In Third High's pavilion, there were even cheers of victory. "You called it, George."

"We got lucky, Masaki."

While they managed to rein in their reactions to the news, the two of them failed to hide their elated smiles.

"Now it comes down to whether that guy takes the bait..."

"He will. On the open fields with no cover whatsoever, he has no other options save throwing down in a one-on-one shootout."

"He'll try to break through there because that guy has 'Gram

Demolition' as a trump card, eh..."

"Precisely, Masaki.

While his tactics smack of ambushes and surprise, in reality everything is founded on a complex series of calculations.

If he knows that there are no direct countermeasures, he may still choose the road less traveled and elect to spring out a surprise attack.

However, since he can still use 'Gram Demolition' as a direct counter, logically, he would choose the avenue of attack that has the highest chance of success."

"While you will suppress the defender and the guerrilla."

"The defender isn't the problem. His Fortifying Magic seems legit, but there's nothing else to write home about.

The guerrilla player... Seems to specialize in Ancient Magic. Based on his name, he's most likely a Magician from the 'Yoshida Family'. The fact that he remains a complete mystery does give one pause, but when compared to Ancient Magic, modern magic owns the decisive edge in speed. Without any cover on the open plains, this is definitely in our advantage."

"Furthermore, you still have an ace in the hole with the 'Cardinal Code'."

"Unfortunately, our opponents seized the Newcomers Division crown from us...

But at the very least, Monolith Code will belong to us!"

"Exactly, leave it to me!"

Hearing Kichijouji's words, Masaki nodded boldly.

"The 'Open Plains' without a hint of cover...

This will be a harsh battle, Onii-sama."

Miyuki's words exemplified the thoughts running through everyone who came to cheer them on.

"No, it's far better than the valley or urban settings. We would never stop if we started grousing."

His words not only bewildered Miyuki, even his teammates — Leo and Mikihiko turned around in confusion, prompting Tatsuya to launch into another explanation.

"The Ichijou Family's 'Rupture' is a technique that transforms liquids into gas, using the expanding force to wreak havoc.

For members of the Ichijou Family, using water vapor to initiate explosive attacks is the simplest of tricks.

For Ichijou-kun, the valley arena is synonymous to preparing a gigantic keg of explosives for him. Likewise, an urban setting would be filled with water pipes.

On the other hand, the open plains have no fluids that can be turned into 'explosives'. Even the 'Prince' himself wouldn't be able to call up water from underground to create explosions.

Of course, the woodlands or rocky areas would be more preferable...

But we should be thankful that it wasn't the valley, which would be the bleakest condition for us."

While the Year 1 students all wore a "So that's how it is" expression, the upperclassmen still wore grim faces.

"...Still, you're still forced to fight on an open field with no cover against a Magician who specializes in bombardment, so this disadvantage remains."

"Shiba, do you have a plan?"

After Mayumi's question, Hattori also spoke up.

Hattori actively striking up a conversation with Tatsuya was an incredibly rare event.

Similarly, Tatsuya wasn't able to completely hide his shock at this turnout, hence his response was half a beat slow.

"If they insist on using their original tactics, honestly I don't see how we can turn that around... However, Ichijou-kun seems to be particularly fixated on my presence. If I can get into close combat range, then I have a few options."

"Isn't close quarters combat forbidden?"

"I'm in the clear so long as I don't touch him. I have a few tricks up my sleeve."

At Kirihara's question, Tatsuya smiled without much confidence.

◊ ◊ ◊

The finals for the Newcomers Division Monolith Code.

While it could be said that the arrival of the players drew a huge clamor from the audience, it would be more in line with the truth to say that confused squabbling reigned supreme among the audience.

Exposed beneath a myriad of curious stares, Mikihiko adjusted his hood and pulled it down even tighter.

On the other side, Leo wasn't wearing a hood as he tried his hardest to duck his face and use the robe's collar to cover himself.

"Well...

So our getup is hilarious after all."

"The usage is just how I explained."

The abrupt answer was like the final nail on the coffin, clearly signifying "Resistance is futile".

"...Why us..."

Mikihiko bemoaned this fact to the only person not wearing the mantle and robe — Tatsuya.

"As the vanguard, there's no point in wearing anything that would obstruct physical movement."

Regardless, Mikihiko's objection was easily turned aside by combat practicality.

"That scoundrel...

She must be laughing herself silly now..."

Leo didn't clarify exactly "who" he was talking about, but for the two other people present, nothing else needed to be said.

"Ahahahahahah... My, my sides are killing me~. What is that,

WHAT is THAT! Ahahahahaha..."

Just as the three of them surmised, Erika was roaring in laughter in the stands.

"Erika-chan, please stop..."

After Mizuki tried several times to bashfully persuade her, Erika's laughter finally dropped to a level that was more normal.

"...Ah~, I'm dying. No wonder everyone's eyes are drawn to the things that Tatsuya-kun thinks up."

"...I think Erika's the one who's being watched right now."

Next to Erika, Mizuki shyly hunkered down.

"Sorry, sorry. I just couldn't help myself there. I promise to stop messing around now, so cheer up, OK Mizuki?"

"Seriously...

Please do!"

After she could feel the gazes (she didn't have the courage to visually verify this) around her stabbing towards her turn back to the arena, Mizuki finally raised her head.

"But, what exactly is that?"

Since there were no obstructions on the open plains, the audience could directly view the entire arena. Even so, the distance was still far enough that details were hard to make out, so everyone was watching the large screens for details on the players' expressions, just like in the other competitions.

Erika was watching the images on the main screen that depicted Mikihiko and Leo standing in First High's territory.

After watching for a few more seconds, she shook her head as if to say "might as well raise both arms now".

"Nope. I still can't tell what they're trying to do. Since this is Tatsuya- kun after all, I'm sure he's not just doing this for show."

"...

Lots of 'spirits' are gathering on Yoshida-kun's robes..."

"Huh?"

An unexpected response answered her murmuring. Erika turned to one side and sucked in a breath as she saw Mizuki remove her glasses and an incredible light dancing in her eyes.

While a minority in the audience believed that Leo and Mikihiko's garb was out of date or from the wrong century, very few people laughed outright in derision. The thought that dominated the minds in the audience was what were the "robes" and "mantles" being used for.

Still, for their opponents, they couldn't just use the word "curiosity" to wave it off.

"Are they just doing this for show?"

Hearing their teammate's speculation, Masaki and Kichijouji both shook their heads.

"That guy knows George's background... Is this his solution to 'Invisible Bullet'?"

"It's true that my magic doesn't have much in terms of penetrating power... Still, it's not so simple that a mere piece of cloth can stand against it, so it's hard to believe that he would rely on such an amateurish countermeasure."

"Or this is done to make us think there is some strategy at work here?"

"That possibility is not altogether zero, yet..."

Masaki's words became vague.

"...I don't understand. Was he saving this all this time for this moment..."

Kichijouji bit his lip. It was precisely because he prided himself on his intellect that he was particularly frustrated.

"We advance recklessly, but forcing ourselves to contemplate something that cannot be discovered now is pointless. There is always some degree of risk when using force to win."

In order to cut through Kichijouji's befuddlement, Masaki spoke up in a forcible tone.

Despite this, Masaki himself wasn't immune to this perplexity.

What aroused curiosity from the audience was nothing short of a source of great wariness to the enemy.

The players and auxiliaries were oblivious to this, but there was another reason behind the ruckus.

The reason came from the observation deck near the board chairman's room.

A completely unforeseen visitor had arrived. "Kudou-sensei! Why are you here?"

Elder Kudou, who usually watched the matches from the screens in the VIP lounge near the main headquarters, had personally come to the visitors' observation deck.

"Even I like to occasionally come here for a look."

Kudou Retsu nodded generously to the board members that all stood to welcome him and sat in the leather chair that was hastily prepared for him.

"Of course, it is our honor to host you here, but..."

But, why now? In face of this silent query, Elder Kudou frankly replied.

"It's nothing really. I just noticed a rather interesting young man."

The moment before the match begins was undoubtedly the time when a player was at their most nervous. No matter how confident they were or how great their odds were, all things became questionable at this time. This was no playoff that was the best of a series, this was single elimination where everything came down to the line in one match, so it was only natural to be uneasy at being uncertain of their opponent's strength.

That being said, their nervousness vanished the moment the starting signal sounded.

Once the battle was joined, there was no room for further doubt.

Once the signal was lit, both sides began bombarding one another. They were using long range magic attacks.

The audience was overjoyed at this result whereas the supporters in First High's stands were shocked into silence.

There were approximately 600 meters between the two fields.

The distance was shorter than the woodlands or valley settings, but in terms of range for firearms, this was still a stretch for the effective firing range of assault weapons. This was the range for sniper rifles.

At the same time, both sides were firing at one another with CADs shaped like automatics as they steadily approached one another step by step.

Tatsuya was dual-wielding twin pistols just as he was during the preliminary and semifinal rounds.

On the other side, Masaki had swapped out the Generalized CAD he used during the semifinals for a Specialized CAD.

While the CAD in Tatsuya's right hand was responsible for intercepting enemy attacks, the CAD in his left was retaliating. Realizing this, Masaki abandoned his defense and concentrated on attacking.

The ensuing result was,

The originally disparate gulf in firepower widened even further.

Compared to Masaki's "shots" that possessed the power to decisively end the engagement, Tatsuya's "shots" could do nothing save try and tie up his opponent.

However, his attacks were not telling. This level of Oscillation-Type Magic was too weak to rate actual defense, as a Magician's unconscious Data Fortification would protect themselves.

The number of attacks was also overwhelmingly inferior.

Despite having many tricks up his sleeve, Tatsuya was undoubtedly weaker in terms of pure technical skills. Yet, not only was he exposing himself to his opponent's attacks, he was accurately shooting down each of the incoming attacks at a distance that the naked eye could barely ascertain. Just this point alone was awe inspiring.

"Such courage!"

A nameless Year 3 male student quietly gasped. "Is he really a Course 2 student?"

A female player asked one of her teammates.

The upperclassmen were expressing their surprise not because of the strength of his magic, but because he maintained his mental concentration despite suffering severe bombardment from his opponent.

Yet — Mayumi, Katsuto, Suzune, Azusa, Hattori...

Each of them wore grim faces.

Right now, both sides were still feeling each other out, but every step Tatsuya took forward put him more and more on the defensive and subsequently, he was retaliating less and less. This point was blatantly obvious to all of them.

Compared to the players and members of First High, Kichijouji felt an altogether different shock in Third High's territory.

Tatsuya was currently using Oscillation-Type Magic.

Yet, in the three matches leading up to this moment, Tatsuya was using Nonsystematic and Weight-Type Magic.

(He managed to alter the design of his Activation Sequence in a mere two hours...?)

Kichijouji shook his head to dispel the cobwebs.

No matter how skilled his CAD calibration skills were, the calibration process had no bearing on the match itself.

What determined the outcome was only how he chose to wield the result of his calibrations.

This was not the time to appreciate his calibration speed. That was the "perplexity" that may lead to an accident in battle—

"Proceed as we discussed, I'm heading out!"

"Understood, leave the rear to me!"

He hadn't even noticed his hubris towards the enemy team before his eyes. Kichijouji looped around Masaki's rear and charged towards First High's territory.

Since Kichijouji charged out of allied territory, the match had entered a new phase. Nonetheless, the audience's attention was largely still focused on Tatsuya and Masaki's ongoing struggle.

To be able to endlessly release powerful magic, Masaki's talent was truly worthy of praise.

Regardless, Tatsuya's "Gram Demolition" that unerringly struck down Masaki's magic was even more moving.

Few members of the audience were aware of high level Counter Magic like "Gram Demolition". "Gram Demolition" demanded an excessive psion count, so even researchers specializing in the field had few opportunities to catch a glimpse of this magic.

Even without knowledge on the subject, the large screen that displayed the psion movements clearly showed the scene of brilliant psion shells striking, shattering, and then erasing the Compression- Type Magic Sequences.

This was a glorious, dreamlike image that set one's heart aflame.

Magicians who could perceive the psions and the spectators who possessed latent magic talent had no need for the large screen and could only bow before the psions wildly dancing in a storm of magic before their eyes.

Unbound by reason or logic, they were held spellbound by this spectacular air show.

Presently, Tatsuya focused all his attention on shutting down each of Masaki's attacks.

Even so, he still took note of Kichijouji emerging from Third High's position.

Like a chain reaction — in reality this was a direct result of seeing Kichijouji's advance, Tatsuya's hitherto steady pace accelerated to a run.

Masaki didn't panic in the slightest at Tatsuya's change of pace and calmly launched Compression-Type Magic at Tatsuya.

His run failed to adopt any evasive maneuvers.

It's not like his opponent was using his eyes to aim, so that degree of evasion was meaningless.

As he ran forward, Tatsuya concentrated on the mass of energy formed to alter the Eidos in the air and sent a bullet made of psions — "Gram Demolition" straight into the mass, shattering Masaki's magic before it could materialize.

Nonetheless — with the distance between them drawing ever closer, aiming was more simplistic. While physical distance was not a direct factor, the closer the physical target was, the easier it became to perceive its proximity and existence.

Especially when aiming air-like objects that are not usually visible. The closer the target was, the easier it became to take aim.

Of course, in this situation, the only target at hand was Tatsuya himself.

Fifty meters from Masaki, Tatsuya ground to a halt and was unable to completely nullify Masaki's attacks.

The compressed air that Tatsuya failed to bring down came crashing towards Tatsuya.

Tatsuya relied on his five senses to detect their trajectory and deftly used his physical techniques to avoid them as he continued to advance towards Masaki.

Unable to advance straight forward, the dozens of yards between them became an insurmountable wall for Tatsuya.

"So, he's finally reached the point where he can't hold back any more."

Seeing Tatsuya forced into a corner, Yamanaka actually remarked happily.

"Please be serious, sensei. Even Tatsuya-kun can't rely on only his five senses to completely detect the early warning signs of magic invocation and Invisible Bullet. Given the current situation, we can still use a 'sixth sense' as an excuse in place of 'Eye of the Spirits'."

At Fujibayashi's vigorous defense, Yamanaka smiled devilishly.

"Really? That's true, while he can fool those third and fourth rate scrubs... It's hard to imagine he could pull a fast one under the eyes of that gentleman."

Yamanaka's line of sight was resting on Elder Kudou, who was watching the match with abundant interest from his seat in the chairman's lounge.

Fujibayashi only spared him a quick glance before switching back to Tatsuya.

Kichijouji was looping around the fringe of the arena as he advanced towards First High's monolith. When he came within 100 meters of First High's territory, Leo barred his path.

Finding it odd that the defender was so far forward, Kichijouji fired off an "Invisible Bullet" as he ruminated on this. No, more like he was about to fire.

"Wha?"

In front of him, a black wall obscured his gaze. Leo had removed his mantle and held it unfurled before him.

A metallic plate flashed towards Kichijouji's flank like a storm of blades.

Facing the flying blade from the Weaponized Integrated CAD, Kichijouji immediately activated Move-Type Magic and sprang backwards to avoid the blow.

On its heels, a powerful gust chased after him.

Kichijouji used Weight-Type Magic to reduce inertia his body was suffering and used the force of the wind to reduce the gust attack.

(How meddlesome!)

Kichijouji muttered in his mind and aimed the "Invisible Bullet" at Mikihiko.

He chose to first remove this irksome fire support.

However, the moment his gaze fell across the gray robes, he was suddenly unable to detect the target's proximity.

Like a heat wave disrupting the focal point of a camera, the gray figure became fuzzy and hard to grasp.

(Illusions!?)

They had taken advantage of the fact that "Invisible Bullet" required visual confirmation. The moment Kichijouji realized this, he also detected the blade of the "Mini Communicator" slashing downwards at his head. Unable to dodge, he could only close his eyes and await the impact.

"Gah!"

Yet, Leo was the one who cried out in pain as if all the air had been forcibly expelled from his lungs.

The blade Leo swung was sent off target and buried itself into the earth. Leo was flung aside by the blast and crumpled to the floor.

"Masaki!"

He was saved! Sparing the words of thanks, Kichijouji called out the name of his protector.

Kichijouji, who had completely fallen into the enemy's trap, was plucked out of danger by Masaki, who was still bombarding Tatsuya's position.

His fingers quickly danced across the screen of his CAD as Kichijouji brought up Weight-Type Magic.

The force of gravity abruptly intensified, sending Mikihiko "plummeting" downwards helplessly.

Kichijouji abandoned fixating on his favorite magic and poured on the magic to crush Mikihiko into the earth.

Completely suppressed, Mikihiko could only expel the crushed air out of his mouth.

Tatsuya did not idly watch this scene pass by.

The split second that Masaki diverted his attention to Kichijouji, Tatsuya immediately closed the gap to within 5 meters.

For someone with Tatsuya's physical skills, this was but a paltry display of his prowess.

Yet, his target still remained one step away. Masaki's face clearly betrayed his agitation.

Rather than being a panic brought on by terror, the instincts of a soldier who had survived the battlefield told him he was in danger.

A continuous chain of sixteen compressed air bullets, far surpassing the limits laid down by the rules, came swarming towards Tatsuya.

The Counter Magic Gram Demolition was a technique that used compressed psions as bullets to forcibly eradicate Magic Sequences.

Due to its forceful nature, this was a highly inefficient technique.

Unknown to the common man, Magic Sequences also differed in strength.

The Magic Sequences forged by someone of Masaki's caliber could not be so easily disassembled, so overwhelming force was used to forcibly annihilate it, which required an outrageous amount of compressed psions. Even for Tatsuya, this was not an inconsiderable sum, though it was far beyond what an average Magician could produce even if they spent the entire day working at it.

Yet in this instant, he had to dispel 16 shots.

Even though Tatsuya instantly made the call that Gram Demolition wasn't going to make it in time, he resolutely refused to use "Decomposition". He stubbornly stuck to his orders to keep classified magic under wraps.

He hid the fact that he was capable of "decomposing" information structures through "Gram Dispersal" and met the attack with "Gram Demolition".

The ensuing result was a given.

After bringing down 14 of the shots, the last two hits struck home on Tatsuya's body.

Seeing Tatsuya begin to crumple towards his feet, Masaki spat out "Sh*t!" in deep regret.

While in a complete flight or fight mode, he had released magic that surpassed the rules for destructive power. He realized this point the moment he released his magic.

This was only a few seconds after the fact, so the panel of judges might not have noticed yet.

The red flag hadn't been raised yet, but he was profoundly aware that he was about to be disqualified for violating the rules.

That realization caused precious seconds to slip from Masaki's hands.

His mind was completely blank as he concluded that there was nothing he could do to avert that.

[Multiple rib fracture. Liver ruptured. Massive internal bleeding.] [Combat level dropping below optimal conditions]

[Auto Restoration Ability \ Auto Activate] [Magic Sequence \ Uploading]

[Core · Eidos · Data \ Retrieving from storage] [Restoration \ Commence — Complete]

—This sequence was completed even before Tatsuya could even consciously realize this.

Subconscious signal processing vastly outstripped conscious signal processing in terms of speed.

By the time he realized he was collapsing, his flesh had already been restored.

Within easy grasp of his fingers, a pair of motionless legs could be seen.

Tatsuya had no clue why Masaki stood there frozen and completely defenseless.

Currently, that reason did not concern him.

Before he even took the time to dwell on that subject, his body had already risen to its feet.

He took a step forward with his right foot and stretched his right arm past Masaki's face that was appalled with shock.

The right hand that stabbed forth was never intended to strike Masaki, and just as it passed Masaki's ear, An explosion that was on the same level as a flash bang sprang from Tatsuya's right hand.

The roar rendered the observation deck utterly silent.

Even Kichijouji, who was still locked in combat, couldn't help but stop his actions and turn to look.

On Tatsuya's right hand, his thumb was pressed tightly against the tip of his index finger as he held his inter-crossed fingers before him.

Under the gaze of the all the players, judges, spectators, and supporters, Masaki sank to the floor while Tatsuya powerlessly fell to his knees.

"What? What the heck just happened?"

Her face and voice unified in complete panic, Mayumi inquired of her neighbors.

No one answered her.

Neither Suzune nor Azusa could answer Mayumi's question. "...He snapped his fingers and then amplified the volume."

The answer came from Katsuto, who was directly across from Suzune.

"...That sounds about right. He simply amplified the sound wave.

Such a cacophony would likely rupture his eardrums and the semicircular canals, thus incapacitating Ichijou-kun. Certainly well within the confines of the rules."

Suzune said after Katsuto.

"While the sound was amplified many decibels higher, the magic that was used earlier was solely from the Oscillation System. That's why Tatsuya-kun, who doesn't excel in activating magic at high speeds, could still accomplish this in such a swift manner."

"That was obvious right from the start! Anyone could tell that from seeing the right hand!"

However, Mayumi's mood seemed to blacken even more at these explanations.

"I am asking why was Tatsuya-kun able to rise after sustaining Ichijou-kun's attacks that should have crippled him!

Wasn't Tatsuya-kun taken out right there!?

His counter with 'Gram Demolition' was clearly not in time, right!? He should have taken at least two hits!

So why has Tatsuya-kun taken damage that is beyond the maximum threshold for destruction and is still able to continue to fight!?"

"Saegusa, calm down!"

Mayumi took the news that Tatsuya might have sustained terrible injuries extremely poorly, as evidenced by her ashen face. Katsuto tried to calm her in a solemn voice.

"I saw the same scene, but the truth of the matter is that Shiba stood on his feet and moved in a manner that someone with grievous injuries is simply incapable of and defeated the enemy. Based on his current appearance, he appears to have suffered damage from the sound attack he released and not any other major injury."

"But..."

"Isn't Shiba an expert in antiquated martial arts? Rumor has it that the older styles contained physical arts that could strengthen the body and techniques that could mitigate blows directed towards the body. This is probably something similar to that."

"......"

Even though she wasn't entirely convinced of the veracity of Katsuto's words, Mayumi still recovered her calm.

"Our knowledge does not make up the entirety of the world. Magic is not the only 'miracle' out there.

In addition, the match isn't over yet."

"...You're absolutely correct. I apologize, Juumonji-kun. Sorry, Rin- chan."

As Mayumi was reconciling with Suzune, the battle entered a new phase.

"No matter when I see his Self-Restoration, the sight always impresses me to no end."

Fujibayashi turned a half skeptical look at Yamanaka, who was happily remarking on the situation — albeit with an appropriately lowered volume to account for the crowd around them.

"...Did you really see Self-Restoration actually activating? I, for one, didn't see the psion waves generated by spell activation."

"Neither did I. I doubt Kudou-sama noticed either. That being said, the speed of his Self-Restoration ability has long since surpassed the realms of human cognition speeds."

After reaching this point, Yamanaka finally noticed Fujibayashi glaring severely at him.

"Ah, no — I didn't see anything. Of course I didn't see Shiba Tatsuya- kun use some sort of theoretically impossible Self-Restoration ability. Seriously, his endurance is superhuman. How interesting!"

Yamanaka said lightly while indulging in delighted laughter. Fujibayashi stared at him in perplexity.

"Regardless, please don't call him in so you can run experiments on him. He's one of the only two people in this country, and rumored to be among the 50 or so precious assets with Strategic-Class abilities!"

"Somehow, I don't think he's such a weakling that he'd fall apart after one or two experiments."

"Whether he would fall apart is not the problem here!"

At this merciless scolding, Yamanaka quickly shrank his neck in.

"Fine, but no matter how we slice it... He used that thing, just like Fujibayashi said he would."

"Indeed, Ichijou-kun is simply too tough an opponent with a low quality CAD. I think that even Flash Cast would be legitimate here."

"Single Systematic Flash Cast, eh. Oh well, at least he managed to keep our secrets."

The ones who wanted Flash Cast to remain a secret were the Yotsuba Family and not the Independent Magic-Equipped Battalion. This ability was considered too unethical for even the military to adopt.

The Independent Magic-Equipped Battalion labeled Tatsuya's original magic as classified. Even in the direst straits, Tatsuya stuck to his guns and never used "Decomposition", only activating his Personal Restoration ability, which was something that no one could identify even if they saw it anyway. This way, Tatsuya only drew the attention of the masses. Otherwise, from the military's perspective, a prized military asset like Tatsuya should be constantly protected from the influence of foreign elements.

At the same time, that would also severely limit his personal freedom. If the situation developed in that direction, the military would be forced to consider opposing, no, flat out countermeasures against Tatsuya. While his words were irksome, Yamanaka actually heaved a sigh of relief at the current outcome.

"The CAD in his left hand is calibrated for Oscillation-Type Magic precisely to cover for this. He's just as prudent as always."

"If that's a high school student, there is something seriously wrong with this world. But, Flash Cast... If he was an enemy, that sort of speed would be a terrifying threat."

Fujibayashi expressed her sincere acknowledgement of Yamanaka's words.

"Indeed... That's practically brainwashing the brain into carving the images of the Activation Sequences into memory, then directly recalling the Activation Sequence from memory without the aid of a CAD. This ability completely bypasses the need for the CAD to spread and read the Activation Sequences...

In his situation, the calculation area in his consciousness has taken this to the next level. By being able to construct Magic Sequences from memory, he also avoids the time needed to construct Magic Sequences in real time... This way, he has absolutely replaced the deficit in processing speed."

"More like made up for and then some. Do we even have someone in the troop that can beat the speed he just displayed? Even Yanagi, who shares the same systematic talent, is only barely able to match him."

"...True, I can't think of anyone else."

The two of them were no longer watching the match.

They were solely focused on Tatsuya, who was still kneeling on the ground.

Kichijouji was utterly panic stricken.

He could not believe the scene that lay before his eyes. Masaki was stretched out on the ground.

Even though his opponent, Tatsuya, was also kneeling on the floor, light still dwelt within his eyes.

In other words...

(Masaki, lost...?)

This was an altogether unbelievable sight.

An implausibility that simply couldn't occur.

Originally, even if there was a minuscule chance the team could lose, the possibility that Masaki would fall was practically zero.

"Kichijouji, watch out!"

Kichijouji snapped out of it upon hearing his teammate calling out to him from their original position and activated "Lightning Rod" magic on reflex.

The grass became the focal point of the lightning attack and grounded out the electrical force.

Kichijouji finally realized that his opponent, who should have been crushed into the ground by Weight-Type Magic, was panting as the long robe whipped about him and glaring at him.

When the roar reached his ears, Mikihiko had no idea what had just happened.

He didn't have the leisure to personally witness his surroundings.

Still, when the pressure forcing him into the ground suddenly vanished, he quickly rolled to a safe distance and got to his feet and spontaneously adopted evasive maneuvers.

Then, he finally took a good look around him. Leo had been knocked unconscious.

Tatsuya was on both knees. Even though he hadn't fallen, he didn't look like he could continue.

And next to him, Ichijou Masaki stretched out his full length on the ground.

(You did it, Tatsuya!)

Mikihiko once thought that Tatsuya could find a way through anything; yet on the other hand, he also felt: "Even Tatsuya is..."

Fired up by the achievement before his eyes, Mikihiko leaped up with renewed vigor.

Not that Mikihiko's condition was any better. Maybe, he was the worst off of the three.

A sharp, stabbing pain accompanied each laborious breath.

Even if the ribs weren't broken, he probably couldn't avoid minor fractures.

Due to the exorbitant amount of time under stress, he was a little light- headed right now.

His back was still in pain from being violently thrown to the ground. Mikihiko cursed the hardness of the earth despite the grass in the privacy of his mind.

However — he was not about to surrender.

In the worst case scenario, he still had to go one on two.

No, fear had no place in his heart, this was the savage truth of reality. Even so — defeat was not an option.

Tatsuya conquered the "Crimson Prince".

At the very least, he was going to show him that he could take down "Cardinal George" — it was this "obstinacy" that drove Mikihiko to stand on shaky legs.

He manipulated his CAD to release a lightning attack. At the same time, he channeled magic into the gray robe he wore — psions that had been digitized.

His image was consumed by the spirits of "shadow" hidden in his robe.

Shadows are not synonymous with darkness.

The outline of an object could be traced by its shadow.

As independent information bodies of "shadow", the spirits of shadow could disrupt the light and darkness that made up the silhouette, in order to hamper an opponent's ability to identify and aim at the target.

The spell originally belonged to the Yoshida Family and him by extension, but Tatsuya was the one who provided the robe as supplement, rewrote the software of the CAD to its current peak condition, and suggested that he use this spell to distort his image.

It was all thanks to Tatsuya that he could come close to matching his previous self — though Erika believed that he had surpassed his past

— in terms of magic.

For someone with his family background and history to be forced into such degrading tasks was the ultimate humiliation, and Tatsuya was the one who gave him the opportunity to prove his mettle on the battlefield.

Along the way to the finals, Tatsuya was also the integral cog that made their advancement possible.

At this rate, at the end of all things, all the laurels would fall on Tatsuya.

Upon realizing this, Mikihiko bit his lip and funneled new life into his wavering legs.

—I will not rely on Tatsuya for everything! —My pride forbids me from doing so!

—No matter what it takes, I will have my vengeance! —Kichijouji Shinkurou, how you have dragged me into the mud! —Come, allow me to return the favor!

These were the proud, grandiose, and arrogant words that Mikihiko spoke to himself.

Tatsuya said it already. He already told me.

It is not you, Mikihiko, who is lacking. It is the spell itself. Then—

(Tatsuya, allow me to prove the truth of your words!) He ignored the magic that shot around his body.

Shadow magic had displaced an illusion of himself several steps away for the enemy to shoot at.

Putting faith in his own abilities, Mikihiko typed a long string of commands into the large smart phone-shaped CAD hidden in the inside of his robe.

Next, he took his right hand off the CAD and slapped the earth next to his feet.

Most Generalized CADs use two numbers and a confirmation key for a total of three keys to begin an Activation Sequence.

Higher quality models, especially the high tech smartphone ones, had features that included auto complete and selection of high efficiency magics, so one key stroke was all that was necessary to activate magic.

Yet today, Mikihiko hit over 15 keystrokes.

That was 5 times as many as moves the usual Generalized CAD needs for magic invocation.

Nevertheless, Mikihiko used a fraction of the normal time to complete the steps for Ancient Magic.

Since the number of key strokes for each Activation Sequence was the same, Mikihiko had no need to hit any extra keys. He wasn't planning on combining five magics into one Magic Sequence, he was setting for the continuous activation of five magics.

This was a technique that unfolded in increments.

It wasn't a simple Magic Sequence that had five magics crammed inside. Inside the code for each magic, there lay instructions to begin constructing the next Magic Sequence.

Each magic would verify the surrounding conditions and pass that onto the next spell, which was a mandatory and critical step for all Magicians who wielded Spirit Magic.

This continuous chain of movements didn't require individual verification, but would process everything in a single, uninterrupted string.

That was the answer that Tatsuya gave Mikihiko.

The earth groaned beneath his hands.

Kichijouji was aware that the groaning was not caused by the Ancient Magic user striking the earth with his hands, but because he had activated Oscillation-Type Magic in the ground.

In spite of this, the "Magister"-like appearance and movements as well as their accompanying effect was sufficient to allow Kichijouji to mistakenly perceive that "the earth shook when the palm struck the ground".

Cracks formed in the earth beneath Mikihiko's hands and rushed towards the location where Kichijouji had lost his balance.

The ground was not physically tearing apart, but was being separated by the force exerted within. Theoretically, this was a concept he understood.

But for unknown reasons, his mental calculations seemed to have lost touch with reality.

Kichijouji used a combination of Weight-Type and Move-Type Magic and sought to escape through the air.

However, his feet were unable to leave the earth. Grass was firmly wrapped around his ankles.

—He didn't know of any magic that could command the plants like animals.

His heart wavered at the idea of being attacked by unknown magic.

This was done by simply commanding the air currents that brushed over the earth's surface to create the image that the grass had wrapped around the target. Yet, Magicians who were only familiar with Systematic Magics would never believe that this was simply a "coincidental" — instead of actually changing the direction of the currents, all that was necessary was the perception of being "entangled" — brush of air.

The cracks in the earth arrived beneath his feet.

Kichijouji could almost feel the grass pulling him into the earth. These were all illusions.

In order to escape from these illusions, Kichijouji gathered every ounce of Magic Power at his command into a leaping spell.

—And completely ignored the possibility that all this was unnecessary.

He had no need to tear through the cumbersome grass jump to such a height.

Kichijouji was overcome with relief at escaping the mossy hell that had risen to his chin by springing into the sky. In this particular moment, his consciousness had completely overlooked Mikihiko's presence. The opponent whom he was locked in battle with currently did not exist within his attention.

This was the decisive opening.

Mikihiko had continuously activated 5 magics. "Earthshaker", "Earth Splitter", "Wild Hair", "Ant Hell". Those were the first four spells that Mikihiko used.

And for his last attack, "Thunder Child", this one was going to swat Kichijouji from the heavens as it came hurtling down from above.

"You bastard!"

Using his hands to hold him up, Mikihiko confirmed the kill shot. At this time, magic launched by the last member from Third High came flying towards him.

Dirt and dust piled atop one another as they came rolling forward, also known as Move-Type Magic "Land Tsunami".

Compared to the original conception of the magic, this was really a downscaled Land Tsunami. Maybe it was because the user wasn't well versed in this magic, or he toned down the firepower because of the rules.

Nonetheless, for Mikihiko, who had already sustained considerable damage from Kichijouji, this spell had sufficient power to finish him off.

He might be able to summon the spirits still burrowed in the earth to repel the oncoming dirt, Mikihiko thought — then swiftly gave up.

Alas, he didn't have much Magic Power left.

While it was called Spirit Magic, the "spirits" themselves didn't actually possess any power. Spirits were ultimately information bodies and nothing more than mediums used to influence the Eidos.

So, we still lost... He thought as he watched the earth rush towards him. Suddenly, Mikihiko's vision was obscured by darkness.

With the heavy sound of something colliding into a metal wall, the earth returned to its original position.

Mikihiko raised his head towards the black flying object that blocked his view.

There, he found his teammate waving his hands and shouting at him.

The flying edge of the Weaponized Integrated CAD had traveled a long distance to take out Third High's last player.

"...Did we win?"

"...Yeah, we did."

Mayumi asked as if muttering to herself, to which Suzune replied in the same manner.

That became the signal.

No one knew who started cheering.

One person set off two others, then four people, eight people, the chain reaction continued onward.

Finally culminating in an explosion.

First High's disorderly cries seemed to merge together and sent the observation deck rocking.

This was a pure and innocent expression of emotion.

It was a sound that both serenaded the victors and bestowed the crushing blow of judgment towards the defeated.

However, this reckless celebration quickly tapered away. Meanwhile, in the front row of First High's supporters.

The figure of a young lady could be seen as she clasped both hands to her mouth as she watched the arena with tears of joy trickling down her cheeks.

Seeing her brother stagger to his feet and wave at her, she was at a loss for words and could only gaze at him.

As if to support her, the applause gradually spread around her. Shortly afterward, the applause spread from the stands for First High's supporters and spread across the entire stadium, regardless of whether they were friend or foe to form a clapping tide of praise.

—The entire stadium was enveloped in warm applause.

Even Tatsuya couldn't help but be embarrassed by the unexpected shower of applause.

Tatsuya took off his helmet and walked to the two others. Leo and Mikihiko were both waiting for him, neither one of them sparing a glance at the audience stands.

"...Speaking of which, you stole all the limelight. Were you waiting for that to happen?"

The first thing Tatsuya said as he approached was this accusation of being a glory hound. Yet, regardless of whether it was the recipient Leo, Mikihiko who heard this, or Tatsuya who spoke up, everyone knew this was only to hide their awkwardness.

"No way. I was really out of it for a while. That's the first time I've taken such a hit since taking a hit from a large motorcycle two years ago."

"What? You took a hit from a large motorcycle?"

Mikihiko asked with an "Are you joking?" expression, but Leo nodded his head earnestly.

"Yeah, that one hurt a lot. There was some kid behind me so I couldn't dodge, so I just decided to bite the bullet and pow! Just like that...

Still got hurt though, since I got away with three fractured ribs. Fortunately, this one wasn't as bad as last time."

"Uh... Leo? Just in case, I just want to make sure that you used

Fortifying Magic to defend against the compressed air pellets, right...?"

"Eh~, I'm sorry to say that all my concentration was focused on attacking... So as you can see, I didn't have any defenses in place.

Ah! How embarrassing."

Mikihiko's face was flooded with question marks. Bluntly speaking, he was openly gaping, but fortunately no one was on hand to laugh at his expense, since the large screen had switched to view the entire arena overhead and was unable to capture any details of the players' expressions.

"Then, you're telling me...

You just took Ichijou-kun's magic attacks?"

"I was defenseless, right? That's why it took me so long to get up. Hm? Mikihiko, you broke your lip. Are you OK?"

"Ah... Yeah, I'm OK.... Sorta."

Mikihiko could only stand there stupefied at this disjointed conversation and unbelievable confession. However, Leo was in an excellent mood, so he didn't pay much attention to Mikihiko's bewilderment.

"Speaking of which, Tatsuya, you OK?"

"Hm? Sorry, could you repeat that?"

"I said, Tatsuya, you OK?"

"Ah... Eardrums are ruptured on one side. Right now my ears aren't doing too well. Compared to that, Mikihiko, what's wrong with you? You look like you've seen a UFO."

Mikihiko was currently engaged in a mental struggle over "Was he the strange one, no, that's impossible".

"Uh, Tatsuya, you didn't hear... our earlier conversation, did you?"

"I'm sorry. I'm reading lips right now to get a hint of what's going on. I did however catch the part about Leo getting hit by a large motorcycle."

"...So, do you have any questions for him?"

As if trying to end his mental struggle once and for all and prove that he was perfectly normal, Mikihiko asked Tatsuya with considerable trepidation, but...

"Questions? About what?"

Tatsuya's answer sent Mikihiko looking skyward in despair.

"Mikihiko, what's the matter? Don't be so melancholy. We won! We are the champions, the champions!"

"You're right..."

Mikihiko suddenly looked exhausted, which was perfectly natural considering Leo was perfectly at ease and Tatsuya seemed to mirror that sentiment.

Seeing those two, Mikihiko thought.

In the end, the final gasp was not decided by Magic Power or spells, but by physical endurance.

Upon seeing the two others finally give in to the undying applause and stand there side by side, shoulder to shoulder, as they waved back in response despite their embarrassment, Mikihiko was painfully aware that: "I need to train a lot more..."