Hitsugi no Chaika Vol 2 Chapter 1

Chapter 1

The mysterious object was illuminated by the moon light.

… Although the word “standing” to apply to it is difficult. Rather, he “was.” The word “was” meant to have at least the legs or feet, which he was not, as there was no handles. You can not make out whether he has the torso or head. He did not have any form and shape, even permanent, since the form of the object is constantly changing. It’s hard to even tell whether an object placed vertically or horizontally.

Toru ACURE stared at the mysterious object.

– …

The object now and then twitched.

The surface of the vague shapes, covered with dirt and fallen leaves, constantly shaking. Of course, she had no eyes, no nose or mouth.Perhaps, if the Torah was asked what it was, he could only say the word “heap”. This self-propelled pile of dirt looked so strange, that did not give no clear description.

– Seagull …

Thor’s voice was cold and gloomy. Maybe blame the cold and darkness of the night.

Gull.

It was a girl’s name, which he decided to a.s.sume his mistress, and which should serve.

Silver hair, small brittle figure, an aura of mystery. Princess perished country.

Her features were so perfect, as if the doll belonged, created a master of world renown.

Her hands were so fragile, as if she could fall apart in the arms of unwary.

Her skin was so white and smooth, as if the dirt does not even dare to approach her.

We pile in front of him missing all of the list.

Only dirty “heap” no humane drop.

– This is … your … – dumbfounded continued Torah. – Your …

Tohru blinked again.

In fact, what he saw, it was hard to believe. He even thought that if he seems to be screwed up and then suddenly open the eyes, this picture is finally disappear.

Finally, he was forced to give up and finish his question:

– Pajamas … or something?

– Mmm.

From the “heap” thought the girl’s face.

It seems that the heap somewhere there was a cut, or rather, a hole under his head. However, there is nothing surprising.

Long silver hair, purple eyes, white skin – the girl looked the same as before.

The only part was changed her clothes.

– Exceptional thermal insulation, – answered the face Seagulls Trabant, leaning out of the “heap”.

– No, but with this I do not intend to argue, but …

– Exceptional zamaskirovannost.

Seagull does not speak very well English and a continental confused in accents and emphasis, but her tone perfectly aired that she is proud of this thing.

– And with that, I also argue not going to, but … – grimly said Toru. – You’ve got to taste all right?

– Important usability. The highest priority.

– …

Thor once again looked at the “pajamas” Seagulls.

It was, rather, the clothes do not, and sleeping bag. To put it more precisely – simply a bag in which he could completely fit one person.Unlike conventional cylindrical bags, this has provided a pretty good leeway man took it.

Front cover its fine mesh layer 2-3. Seagull was enough to climb in and ride a little on the ground to grid hooked for leaves and dirt, which served as an additional means of camouflage.

In addition, this bag does not repeat human shape, and from a distance it is difficult to accept for someone’s shelter.

– Well, if you’re a mage, you probably have to dress up as.

– Own production. Pride. Masterpiece – confirmed Seagull guess that this thing was proud and self-satisfied nod.

– The best defense – not to give the enemy to discover yourself, huh?

– Confirm.

– But now you do not need to dress up as. Get out, your view of the melancholy drives.

– Mmm?

– Precautions leave us – Toru said.

From all sides they were surrounded by trees, fallen leaves and dirt. Before we break camp here, the Torah set several “barriers” along the perimeter.

Of course, they are fundamentally different from those barriers that exhibited for the defense sorcerers. They were much easier. The barrier consists of brittle twigs, hidden under fallen leaves, that would certainly crunched, if they occur.

In addition, between the branches of the trees were stretched thin filaments attached to him with a small bell.

They hung on the case, if a potential enemy will try to get to them, without touching the ground, well, just as an extra security measure.

– And one more thing. Maybe she and warms you, and masks, but I am concerned about the fact that because of it you can not quickly get ready for the battle, if something happens.

– Um … – Seagull frowned.

Obviously, she did not like criticism of the beloved “pajamas”.

– No problem. I can move with lightning speed.

– Oh .. – handed the Torah, squinting. – Come on try to make a circle around the tree. As fast as possible.

– Um – Seagull replied, as if to say, “Yes, no question.”

And then he ran at full speed to the specified tree.

But…

– Gya-eh?

Already in the third step is picturesquely stumbled and fell.

However, she literally hit the dirt face. Dirt and leaves covered with not only a beautiful face, and silver hair.

– I told you.

– Ooh. Impossible.

– Now you know why the clothing is usually repeats the shape of the body? You now, in a sense, trying to run, stepping on the hem of her own skirt.

In addition, due to the fact that her clothes were wrapped in netting, collect leaves and dirt, she could easily be hooked to it for any branch.

In other words, her pajamas perfectly old enough to dress for the role of a stationary state in the hope that you will not notice, but for fast movement (more precisely, the flight) does not fit perfectly.

– So proud … – sadly she whispered Seagull.

Her favorite pajamas blurs the line between themselves and the land so well that it looked like a seagull is owed severed head and looked not the most pleasant way.

– Take off your clothes already – the Torah said, handing lying on the ground Seagull hand.

And in the next moment …

Very near to the Torah fingers flew blade and stuck in the fallen leaves.

… Hatchet.

– Ah ?!

Toru reflexively took a hand and prepared for battle.

Generally, these axes designed for Cutting through the road through the thicket, chopping wood and butchering a small production. But in order for them to be not only universal, but also effective, they do a pretty heavy. They are cut and substantially not by the blade sharpness, but due to its gravity.

And if this was a little ax flown metche … that this day the Torah would be remembered as the one in which he lost a couple of fingers.

– Brother … – indifferent voice came from somewhere in the frozen darkness of the surrounding trees.

He was so smooth that it did not feel any sense.

– What are you doing there?

– It’s me you fit to ask, you fool! – Howled Torah. – What the h.e.l.l are you doing ?!

– No, it’s still the question I should ask.

With these words from the trees to them came a tall, slender woman.

Due to the narrow eyes and neat lips she seemed very mature, but in fact she was only 17 years old. Her long hair was tied in a ponytail at the back, which is why it is a bit like a guy and immediately began to make an impression very active person.

Although she was slim, but it did not seem weak, but because of their clothes – a light leather armor – it became like a strong young doe.

Akari ACURE.

The younger sister of the Torah. But she was a half-sister, is not related to him by blood.

She went on the hunt and just returned.

In her left hand she held a poultry carca.s.s. It seems that it is gutted and bled her on the spot, as the blood flowed only small drops. With this b.l.o.o.d.y image Akari production becomes even more impressive. If a girl at night on the road saw the child, he would undoubtedly have wet my pants, and then burst into tears.

– Why are you in the middle of the night – she continued, looking at the Torah with their black eyes – Woman pinned to the ground and ordered her to undress?

– … Eh? – Toru asked blankly.

No, he actually said Seagull “undressed”, but …

– And … wait a minute, you did not understand, – Thor shook his head. – Here there is not what you thought.

– Mmm? Stop undressing?

I have already begun to take pajamas Seagull bowed her head in amazement.

As pajamas – nightwear, then, of course, underneath Seagull was practically naked. In addition, because of the cool nights of her snow-white skin was painted blush, which only exacerbates the misunderstanding.

– Are you already beginning to undress ?!

– The Torah. Illogical – Chaika said sulkily.

– How do you hard, brother – Akari added, shaking his head.

Although her face was hard to catch at least something similar to the emotion of it, however, it exuded an eerie chill. Not that Akari was not able to experience any feelings, she just did not know how to express their appearance. As it turned out – I did not even know the Torah.

– Every time I look away, as you already rushed at little girls.

– Enough of this talk about me! – Howled Torah. – I do not …

– But if it’s your fetish, then nothing can be done.

– Hey, you. You are listening to me?

– What would be a pervert or a ladies’ man you are, how fast you may be finished, no matter how short it you may be, I will always love you, brother. I am well aware that my duty as a younger sister, – to take you just the way you are!

With that she spread her arms to the side, as if inviting the Torah to jump into her arms. And yes, in her left hand she was still clutching the carca.s.s freshly killed birds. Because of this, the feeling that she did not want to hug him and strangle to death.

– Enough already … chance to utter any nonsense!

– Nonsense?

– Size does not your business!

And then, quickly or slowly – too. And all the rest.

– But it’s a very important question. That’s why I mentioned – minted in response to Akari. – And by the way, I would not hurt to know the answer. I’m your sister.

– Oboydeshsya!

– Come on, brother. Undress – quietly ordered Akari. – I firmly believe that my brother is not completely hopeless, and that if he tells anyone to undress, is willing to do it himself.

– Believe me, as much as necessary! – Angrily said Toru, then picked up the ax and threw it at Akari, who easily caught it in the air, deftly scrolling finger, and “drop” so that he hung on her belt.

– Oh … and what the h.e.l.l do I do in these mountains?

– To camp? – Slightly incredulous voice asked Akari.

– Ah, yes, of course. Of course! – Sarcastically said Toru, then caught a bird carca.s.s which Akari threw like in exchange for a hatchet. – Well, what we will do with it? Crude has complicated.

– But there is not a fire razvedeshsya – saw Akari.

And she was right. It’s hard to come up with something more significant than a fire in the mountains. And if they fire a muddle could still hide, then the smell of smoke and nothing can be done.

Torah, Akari and Seagull were on the run. Forget about the dangers and precautions impermissible.

– It would be possible to pickle … but we have no salt, no banks …

– The Torah.

Seagull suddenly gently tugged the hem of his garment. At some point, she still had time to change clothes and was not half-naked, and in his usual black-and-white dress.

– Cooking. Practical Magic, – she said, pointing a finger at himself.

– Oh … Well, you could. You can do it?

– Mmm.

Seagull with a happy face nodded, then reached for the black box, leaning against a nearby tree.

It was delivered vertically hexagonal box in which he could fit people.

Coffin.

But Gull, of course, benefited from it is not the body, and made of wood and steel instrument. A long tube. The complex mechanism. The handle of the treated wood. Seagull start habitual movements of the device to connect to each other.

And very soon she picked up a finished tool.

He was long. Perhaps longer herself.

Magic outfit called Gundo.

It was a kind of magic wands, mages are used to cast spells. Thanks Gundo spells that previously required lengthy rituals have become much simpler and therefore more useful.

– The Torah. Meat. Vaughn. Branch. Hang – Chaika said, reeling on the neck of the so-called patch cord, and then pointed to the tree next to the Torah.

– Like this?

– Uh-huh.

Nodding, Seagull directed gun hanging on the carca.s.s.

And then…

– Aymr, iai, daring, IRG … – start intones Seagull, clinging to the sight and shut the other eye.

Besides the fact that the cast has focused minds, it is also conducted in the language, uttering words that switches on the brain “magic” mode. However, the Torah, as a layman, all the details of what is happening could not have known.

– Fifa, Ax, eksepus, res …

Finally, around the girl appeared dim blue glow.

It was not flame and lightning.

This light, the essence of which bordered on the void, suddenly began to expand, and then began to draw in the air difficult letters.

This was the route that was appointed by the spell, and that was to go to magic power.

At first the letters were cut off from each other, but then began to slowly rotate around Gundo, and then completely merged into a single chart.

– Appear, “Kipyat.i.tel” – confident tone said Gull.

And in the next moment something invisible, but obviously highly compressed, poured into the hanging carca.s.s.

There was no light. There was no sound.

But the Torah understood that launched some force.

And then…

– Oh … great – I dropped the Torah, when he heard the smell of fried bird.

The magic that can in such a short time to cook food without fire, no doubt, extremely useful.

Toru enthusiastically turned to the Seagull …

– A…

… Which surprised clapped eyes.

And in the next moment … bird bird exploded.

– Ah ?!

Naturally, since the Torah was standing next to a tree, a few lumps flew in his direction. No matter how clever acrobat he was, but to dodge all, even he could not.

– Oh, it’s hot! Wh-what happened ?!

After dropping off the face of adhering oshmetok, Thor turned to the suspended carca.s.s.

The picture was, frankly, pathetic. Most of the meat and viscera scattered around, and hung from a branch just skin and bones.

– What happened ?!

– …

Seagull some time sat motionless with round eyes, and then …

– Hee-hee – dropped it and smiled sweetly.

– Do not think it will help – roared in fury Torah.

It looks like she made a mistake somewhere. Apparently, the rate of heating.

Due to the fact that the temperature inside the poultry has risen sharply, the whole contained in it boiled water and instantly turned into steam, which quickly inflated carca.s.s. As a result, it exploded.

Only now the Torah remembered that this girl named Seagull possessed extraordinary strength of will only in critical moments, and in the rest of the time was very clumsy (and it was not just about magic) and suffered defeat after defeat.

– How could I have forgotten? .. – Handed the Torah, sc.r.a.ping leftover meat with clothes.

– I tried in vain, – summed Akari.

Indeed, even though they could put out the smoke from the flown apart in all directions undigested lumps, but the smell of anything about it was no longer possible.

– d.a.m.n … – Tohru looked at the hanging in the night sky the moon. – So … I should not have such a hurry.

Toru ACURE, saboteur.

His journey was so difficult that at times he almost began to regret his own choice.

A long, long war left behind.

It lasted more than 3 centuries and ended only when the Northern Empire Gas is always in the whirlwind of events, was completely destroyed.

Arthur Strip Emperor Empire Gas, known as Emperor of the d.a.m.ned, the Devil King Immortal, the Great Sage … and, most importantly, as the greatest magician.

But even monstrous Emperor could not stand against the combined might of the armies of his enemies, and was defeated. Officially, it was reported that his body was burnt to ashes. As Arthur Gas, one might say, the rules of their country alone, the Empire immediately broke up brick by brick. Half of his va.s.sals was killed and the other fled across Ferbistu.

The rest of the state was divided between the territory and resources of the former Empire, and then embarked on the development of the stolen magical technologies. In addition, they were attacked, and a heavy load of recovery of economic problems, and would not have to fight anyone.

It is time to begin peace.

But … it is not in the history so that any line could completely distinguish one era from another.

Despite the fact that on the wave termination announced quite officially, it does not mean that the next day lives have changed radically. For people living in war time has become so familiar that the world seemed to them something unusual … and there were many people whose being turned so suddenly and unexpectedly that they could not accept the fact of occurrence of peacetime.

These include, for example, includes all the artisans that for many years supplied the army of necessary supplies.

Another example was the merchants who lived in that traded with soldiers in their camps.

People like the Torah and Akari ACURE also belonged to these people – they are saboteurs of ACURE. All my life I have made a living weapon that can turn the tide of battle.

They were the people who are building their lives solely of benefit considerations, they could bring the war. In peace time, they, like all the other saboteurs, immediately becomes useless. But even though they knew it all, we could not just change the way of life, who have dedicated all their time. Their education has left on the body and soul such prints, from which they could not escape.

They were a relic of the past.

And it was …

Chaika Trabant.

She – Seagull Gas.

Being the successor of Arthur Devil Strip, it also applies to those people who had no place in the new world.

After some simple dinner meeting began.

– So … the question is, what do we do next, – the Torah said, sitting on the ground and leans back against the tree trunk.

Akari sat beside him, and the gull – on the contrary. The fire they could not breed, but the moonlight is still enough to make out faces in the darkness.

In fact, it’s been 5 days since they left Delsorant, but had the opportunity to talk to them just now. The rest of the time they were running day and night, trying to break away from his pursuers, and because it was not up to talking. If the Torah and Akari were still in order, Seagull already falls from weariness feet.

– We need to decide where we are going to move, at least approximately.

– M? – Surprise dropped Seagull, which was kind of like better than others to understand what is happening.

It looks like she was going to do the same as before – lightly walk in search of the “souvenirs” of his father …

– I understand that he rashly promised to follow you regardless of whether you’re looking for “souvenirs” or simply run from those nasty guys, but nothing we can not help, unless we understand, are in what kind of situation – with frown said Toru.

Seagull chasing.

There was a band of knights, mercenary, a.s.sa.s.sin, and G.o.d knows who, who hunted Seagull Gas, daughter of the Emperor of the d.a.m.ned … and at the same “souvenirs”.

And as the Torah and Akari, they are half due to circ.u.mstances fought with the detachment thus, resulting began to follow the Chaika and defend it …

– I understand … – Chaika said, nodding obediently.

When she did that, then it became so charming that resembled an elegant doll, who can not offer anything but pleasant appearance. Of course, she could confidently call himself a magician, and magicians in the world was not so much, but it is by no means unique.

In other words … they clearly do not like a dangerous person for whom you want to send a squad led by a knight. Of course, people sometimes looks can be deceiving, and persecute not only the bad people, but also good.

– So after all – the Torah, squint said. – You really the daughter of Arthur of Gaza?

– Confirm – Seagull nodded, then proudly thrust out his chest a little and added. – I’m really a princess.

It seems that it is, in spite of its position, it is not felt the strain.

– I Do not know if you can be proud of.

– Revered. It is necessary, – said Gull, showing the finger.

Let her and the mistress, but as evident under them, the Torah spoke to her very familiarly. In addition, even though she called herself a princess, the Torah had not the slightest idea how to talk with all kinds of the royal family. Perhaps these features of his irritated Seagull.

– So … what is your ultimate goal?

– Collection. Collect the remains of his father – Seagull replied confidently.

Indeed, Seagull collected the remains of his father, Emperor Arthur Strip, nicknamed the Devil.

After the death of Arthur Strip in the battle for the capital of the Empire Gas won his “heroes” dismembered the corpse and pick up a part of it.

Objects, for a long time served as the seat of powerful thoughts, were the source of magical energy and fuel were magical.

The most common fuel used recycled fossils of creatures that have a certain level of intelligence (so-called “dry fuel”), but the remains of Arthur Strip, the strongest mage in history Ferbista were much more powerful source of energy. And, of course, a clean fuel that can accommodate a lot of magical energy cost by orders of magnitude more expensive than usual.

In other words, Gaza Emperor remains were trophies that are divided between the “heroes”.

Of course, it was never mentioned publicly.

Stated it was that in the course of the battle with the emperor heroes destroyed his body with the help of magic, and he did not even ash remaining.

Questioned the need for such stringent measures only person he could, who has not heard the legend of Emperor Gaza. Some have argued that the Devil, keep at bay the rest of the state, was not a man at all.

But whatever it was …

– I understand that in a good no one will give us, – he said with displeasure the Torah.

If more precise, since “Heroes” took home trophies, which should be divided among the winners, they zealously guarded the remains, and even refused to recognize the fact of the fact that own them.

– Well, do you know who they are?

– … – Seagull shaking her head.

– How it all started – said Toru, feeling it leans impotence.

The situation is complicated by the fact that the names of most of those heroes that defeated Emperor in battle, never disclosed. One reason for this was that the names of those involved in the actual killing of the Emperor, knew almost no one – including the detachment were like magicians who supported the other from a distance, and many other fighters that held back reinforcements trying to help the emperor.

Another reason was that the end of the Empire Gas put a united army of other kingdoms that have concluded a forced union. Immediately after the war began carve-up areas and pulling the blankets. All the countries have tried to play the card of “it is our knights and were heroes,” which is why the list of “Heroes” became even more arbitrary. Each country tried to present it in this light, to a.s.sert their rights to the maximum amount of land and booty.

It was believed that the actual battle with the emperor had entrusted a special squad of 8 persons, but the names of the people that were part of the squad, is also not disclosed due to the delicate political component of the question.

Of course, Delsorantu rumors that Earl, who ruled the city, one of the characters, but the ordinary citizen had no way to ensure their veracity.

– But. Share. INFORMATION – suddenly said Gull, raising a finger.

– A? Someone is sharing with you information? Who!

– Stranger.

– …

Thor frowned.

If the story Seagulls take at face value … it turns out that before Chaika periodically appeared a mysterious man who gave her information about the owners of the remains, and then disappeared.

But who could it be?

What is he persecuted?

– Maybe he was sent to those “forces trying to restore the Empire Gas”, which said that knight?

More specifically, the one knight said that there are people who plan to revive the state, using the Cursed Emperor child Seagull – a legitimate heir to the throne.

– ..

Seagull bowed her head in amazement.

Either she was trying to say that does not understand what it was about, or knight of the words she could not hear at the time. However…

– Sounds suspiciously, – she expressed her opinion Akari, sitting with arms folded.

Not only is this “someone” had knowledge, inaccessible to the majority of ordinary people, he must have had to understand who this Seagull.In other words, he had a huge supply of information and used it for their own purposes.

But if there was such a mighty Gulls a.s.sistant … why it is all the time looking for the remains of one?

After she met the Torah and Akari, they saw to it that there is no nothing wrong with her … but she might well die, for example, in the same mountains Delsoranta. Or it could overtake the detachment of a knight, and then executed as a dangerous person.

If this man had planned to use for the revival of The Seagull Empire Gas, its plan was too fragile, if it can be called up.

– What are you all going to do with the remains?

Its goal is to collect the remains of the Emperor Arthur Strip.

This goal was clear, but it is not clear what she was going to do with them.

Revive Empire Gas? Avenge the people of other countries?

Or…

– … Bury – Just said Gull.

– Ah … yes. That’s it – the Torah nodded.

Due to the abundance of lofty words like “empire”, “Emperor”, “Princess” and so on what is happening can be easily mistaken for something very complex and intricate. The process of collecting the remains of a preparatory stage seemed to some the next step.

But this girl wanted only to recover his father’s body to be buried.

Perhaps this way of thinking can be called natural.

It was a family affair that did not have nothing to do with the fact that her father was the Devil, and she – the princess.

That’s just …

– I’m afraid, even if you tell them that you want only this, they will not leave you alone.

– ..

As already mentioned, the Emperor’s remains were the strongest source of magic, but not only. They are – a symbol of Empire Gas … and if someone managed to collect them all, this person would quickly become perceived as the heir of the empire.

Anyway, this is what he was afraid of the knight.

Let the empire collapsed and gas, but it has existed for hundreds of years. Its existence was beneficial to thousands, millions of people, and among them there are still many of those who tried to revive the empire.

– Oh, you … – a little ruefully said Toru. – Do you realize in what a dangerous thing it was involved?

– ..

It seems that these thoughts did not come to her.

In her mind lived just one thought: “bury the remains of her father,” and because of that she is so clearly focused on her and not break on the way … and that’s why the Torah was afraid for her.

He knew how easily such sincere feelings can be operated.

– Father. Collect. Rest. Later. Will begin. My future … – Chaika said.

Something like she was saying a few days ago.

What time it stopped 5 years ago, the day of the death of Empire Gas.

What she could not get in the future, it is not will deal with the past.

Torah understood it.

Sometimes it is also bound hand and foot by the shackles of the past … even though they were not like the ones that tied Seagull.

– By the way … why Empire Gas all destroyed .. – Toru said, folding his arms.

Because life is Torah consisted of daily training in the village ACURE, get beyond it managed only after the war. Prior to that, he learned about the state of affairs only sc.r.a.ps of stories stray traders in the world. Picture of the world was only approximate in his head, and details about the affairs of each country he did not know.

– Brother. What are you stupid social issues.

Akari shook her head, and this gesture seemed feigned.

Thor knew that this girl is very rarely show their emotions, and her gestures were quite shameless, but even he could not help but get angry at her and did not snap.

– Sorry.

– But that you seem nice.

– Do not make me angry. Shut up, – reflex growled Thor, seeing as Akari clenches his fists, emphasizing his words. – And in general, you might think you have to behave in society get better than me.

Like the Torah, Akari did not leave the boundaries of the village ACURE until her death. Therefore, about the world she had to know as much as he did.

– I – a woman – said Akari, proudly sticking out his chest.

By the way, as opposed to Gulls, she looked much more mature. Her clothes are very well emphasized the line of her body, and even, perhaps, attracted to him too much attention …

– And women have a special female weapon.

– What?

– While we were in Delsorante and you spend days lying in bed, I used her feminine weapons to collect information.

– Wait, so your gun is …

Akari Torah and learned to engage in dirty work – the destruction of all things, the collection and manipulation of information, murders, provocations. saboteurs were experts in such matters, who preferred not to advertise. Suppose they did not manage to take part in these battles, prepare for them, they have dedicated their entire lives in the village.

And, of course, female saboteurs learned to use their bodies in order to entice the enemy commanders, to penetrate into the enemy camp disguised as prost.i.tutes, and so on.

In addition, Akari better than many other saboteurs knew how to control his body and often joined the men’s field saboteurs for physical training …

– So you had time to …

Toru imagined Akari obtains information through the bed men, and realized that it is very difficult to imagine her in the role. However, for the saboteur, this should not be something out of the ordinary.

– Yes … – I replied Akari without shame drops. On the contrary, she said proudly. – I gossiped.

– If you’re proud of the fact that the information gathered in this way, then you clearly something wrong with the views of the world.

– I appreciate it.

– This is not a compliment! – Wearily handed the Torah.

– But still it is not necessary to look down on the flow of information exchanged between a lady’s brother. And men, they do not tell anything.

– That’s just in them as unproven and murky rumors that these flows are completely useless.

– No. It is because the rumors are muddy, the more of them, the more clearly emerges the truth. Unless you did not teach?

Really … can not be smoke without fire.

How dull and improbable nor would the hearing, there was still a fact on which it is based. On the contrary, it meant that no matter how rumors were transformed with time, having heard enough of, can be identified in their common points, averaged stories, cut off the excess tails and get very accurate information.

– But … most people think that the Empire Gas was the source of all evil in the Ferbiste destroyed and that’s why – Akari said.

– That’s what I already know. I am wondering why the only Gas Empire was defeated. The war was full, all the countries were at war with everyone, is not it?

– There is an opinion that the war dragged on for such a period because of the existence of Empire Gas.

– What …? – Thor frowned.

– More – thanks to the achievements of magical technology war has acquired such a scale.

– You have to develop a large-scale spell, to facilitate the movement and communication?

The scope of spells can be very different.

In addition to spells that could be used by a single person Gundo existed such that require the partic.i.p.ation of several people and sophisticated equipment and allowed to raise a castle in the air, or to establish a connection with the point to which otherwise would have had to go a few days.

Most of all these magical technology was created Empire Gas. Frankly, until these technologies require the use of magic as much time and effort that it is practically not used … but researchers Empire led by the emperor Arthur Gas could create Gundo and related technologies.

Although the emperor feared and called the Devil and d.a.m.ned Emperor, at the same time, he had other nicknames, such as the Great Sage, indicates how revered it. If Empire Gas is not spread developed within her magical technology, the level of civilization and culture Ferbiste would be much lower than today.

But…

– Naturally, the achievements in the field of communication and transport in the countries awakened appet.i.te for conquest of new territories.Previously, they were only restrained that they did not have the ability to manage effectively the distant lands. We can say that these technologies not only opened their eyes, but untied the hands of …

– Well, I understand what you’re … – Thor said with folded hands. – But it’s not a very convincing excuse, is not it?

Indeed, it is the magic of technology, developed by Empire Gas, played a crucial role in the emergence and spread of war.

But at the same time, it was very strange that because of this empire Gas announced the root of all evil.

Finally, use the magic of technology for military purposes decided the rest of the state, and not the Empire Gas. The fact that the sword has killed another person, always blame the one who swung the sword, not a blacksmith that forged it.

– Indeed, I find it unconvincing – Akari nodded. – But most people agree with this version.

– Hmm …

In fact, it’s hard to believe that a detachment of knights pursued Seagull for fame or just by mistake.

Someone sent them to her precisely because he considered it a real threat.

– Well … to some degree, I realized what was happening.

Rather, he knew that now they need not to think about the relationship between the two countries, and how to ensure their own safety.

– I wonder how far we have managed to break away from those nasty guys …

Torah could not help remembering that the young knight, chasing seagulls, had a truly excellent technicians, and sadly sighed.

Agency to accelerate the post-war reconstruction, “Kliman.”

Perhaps this is the only organization in the whole Ferbiste, which can be called an international shamelessly. It was an amazing nature in which the money provided by the different countries, working people towards their governments.

However, despite its grand name, the organization can not be called a large scale or in terms of capital, nor in terms of human resources.

In reality, the agency “Kleeman” was rather a monument of those times when the different countries presented a united front in the battle against Empire Gas. And in fact used as a place where rulers occupied post-war reconstruction could redirect things that were too tough for them … or, to put it simply, so that they can justify to their citizens that they are “not that that is not deal with these issues. “

The lack of people. The lack of budget. The lack of powers.

It is with these three challenges small agencies had to face more often.

Naturally, the fact that the people concerned, the state often sent to work in skilled human agency, but too wayward to benefit the country.

The a.s.sistant by the name of Karen Bombardier was just such a person.

– We have received a report from Gillette detachment about how they met themselves know someone, – said chairman of the agency she Konrath Steinmetz, who had just returned to his office after the break in the yard.

– With whom?

– With Seagull Gas, – she said, as if explaining something obvious, and adjusted her spectacles, adorned her nervously looking face.

It was a middle-aged woman, who spoke all kind that everything new, it gets used with great difficulty. In fact, it was truly a perfect example of a man who always did everything by the rules. She brilliantly coped with a desk, but was absolutely sure that everyone else can not work less hard than it, and because this was a man who did not develop any relationships with superiors or subordinates. It has a strict both with itself and with the rest … but consistent and logical.

In her hand she held a few sheets of paper fastened.

Most likely, it was a report received from the unit Gillette … or rather, its copy.

– Devil’s Daughter? – Konrath said, pa.s.sing by Karen and sat down at his desk.

– …

Karen grimaced from tobacco smell, but did not complain.

The smoking ban was in the office of her sentence … or rather demanding. She stubbornly argued that the poor air quality adversely affects productivity. Konrath reluctantly agreed with her … but even the Karen knew that big concessions he will not go for nothing. If Conrat force quit, it will not only begin to work less – at a pace all activities “Kleeman” could simply stand up.

– I did not think it would happen so fast – Konrath said, looking at the paper. – I hope this time it’s real.

His voice could be heard clear Conrat irritation.

Seagull Gas, daughter of the Emperor of the d.a.m.ned Arthur Strip.

In fact, it was looking for not only a detachment of Gillette. One agency has allocated only to find her another 2 unit. And Konrath has repeatedly read their reports, in which they were told that the Devil caught daughter.

That’s just every time you catch them quickly understood that they found fake.

Actually … information that Arthur Gaza has a daughter, appeared after the war.

Prior to that, no one even heard of that Emperor of the d.a.m.ned had any relatives.

Therefore, it was not even sure that a girl named Seagull Gas existed at all.

But despite … or rather, precisely because of this was worth the war ended, people started to appear everywhere, who enjoyed the postwar turmoil to proclaim himself the Crown Princess Empire Gas, and even regular arrests could not stop these fools. Of course, due to the fact that the Empire fell, convinced of falsity of those deceivers was difficult, but Konrath sincerely do not understand why all of them so liked to pretend to be relatives of the Emperor of the d.a.m.ned.

– Apparently, she had her a.s.sistants.

– Are they going to scam some crank? – He said Konrath tormented voice, leafing through doc.u.ments.

He read a little about unscrupulous fraudsters messages that were a.s.sociated with merchants and n.o.bles, were told that they are going to revive the Empire Gas, promised them a decent reward, when the task is executed, obtained from their finances and hiding immediately. We can say all the Devil’s daughter, who is caught in their nets, hunted just that. Of course, not all of them promised to restore the empire.Sometimes they lulled the attention of their victims with stories of raising funds for the search of the treasure, which is hidden by Arthur Gas, and so on.

Whatever it was, to give credibility to their stories, they always pretended to act led to any organization. It is hard to imagine that there is a fool who believed nowhere who took a girl who seems the princess and asks for money. For such fraud should be a remarkable acting skills … and “a.s.sistants”.

– Looks like they fought with a group of Gillette – Karen said indifferently.

– …

Konrath stopped flipping the paper.

He frowned and looked at his a.s.sistant, obviously expecting her to continue.

– And?

– It seems that the Seagull Gas somehow they hired a.s.sistants Delsorante. Young Man and Woman. We know nothing about them, but as a result of their battle with a detachment of Gillette, and they themselves, and Seagull gas could escape.

– Detachment from Gillette?

– Yes.

– Hmm ….

Although the “Gillette force” led by Alberico Knight Gillette, we can say, consisted of random pa.s.sengers, it was a very skilled people.Especially effective they were in combat. And, nevertheless, decided to join their opponents in battle … and were able to escape.

Most likely, the man and woman is not the ordinary people.

Mercenaries? Perhaps saboteurs? Whatever it was, it is people with the skills, redundant for scams. But more importantly, they do not run away at the sight of a knight, and it does not matter that he was not acting on behalf of the state. At least, he had to make it clear that his commanders – the official organization and no scammer will not persist and speak out against the government forces.

And that means …

– Is this true?

– We can not say this with certainty – Karen replied. More than anything, she hated to give conjectures as facts. – As stated in the report unit Gillette, she stole the remains of Arthur Gaza, kept Count Robert, and fled.

Of course, there was the likelihood that a man named Seagull Gas really existed.

Actually, Gillette squad was sent on a mission is due to the fact that in the worst case, this could really be true.

– We need evidence.

– Currently Gillette squad pursues her, – said Karen, leafing through doc.u.ments. – What would you do?

The real question is, is behind these words, was: “You want to give them any more orders, or do you want another detachment to a.s.sist the detachment Gillette?”

But…

– Nothing, – Konrath said, again looking down on paper. – We can not say whether or not it is true, is not caught her. But regardless of the answer to this question, this daughter of the Devil – a person representing a threat to society. Therefore, our current plan remains in force. Let continue to haunt her. If after capturing it turns out that it is true … then we will think about what to do next.

– I Got you – Karen nodded.

It seems that it was in full agreement with the instructions Conrat.

– I’ll let the magician, so he gave them your word.

This conversation about that daughter of the devil, which haunted squad Gillette, ended.

Agency to accelerate the post-war reconstruction, “Kliman.”

This organization, which existed primarily to serve as a convenient excuse for rulers of states and experience eternal shortage of people, was surprisingly a lot of work. Stack requiring approval of doc.u.ments on the table do not fail.

Konrath and Karen immediately turned their attention to the following matter.

From under the feet came the rumble of wheels, is repelled by the uneven ground.

On the road, illuminated by the afternoon sun, rode horse carriage with pa.s.sengers.

It was a large caravan type wagon, pulled by 8 horses … but it moved only slightly faster than a human.

In part, this was to blame for the heavy wagon … but the main reason was that local roads rather defilement. Everywhere the rocks have been scattered, and easily riding the wagon could simply roll over.

Typically, the state of the roads followed by local rulers … but after the war they were often not up to the road, and some land and all left without owners.

And in this case it is the latter is true.

On both sides of the road went off into the distance abandoned wasteland.

And … everything. only the sky and the earth could see to the horizon.

Of course, this s.p.a.ce in some ways feast for the eyes, but this total emptiness seemed unnatural. From the land did not grow even gra.s.s.There was no relief and – only endless flat surface.

Once there was a battlefield.

Due to the powerful magical weapons, began to be applied to the end of the war, there is not just a blade of gra.s.s.

Not everyone will believe, if he is told that once here was located the town and castle of the local lord. It was a city that flourished due to the good location near the road … but now it is completely erased from the face of the earth, and he survived only one name.

Magic was to blame and that for 5 years on this earth does not add a single germ-ground like a huge flat stone covered. Plant seeds got here with the wind and bird droppings, but here there was a soft soil, where they could take root. This land can be restored soil enrichment and laying water, but none of the feudal lords, who lived not far from it, there was no time for it.

On this land given up even the government.

One of its kind drives the disheartened.

But…

– …What are you talking about?

– Get out of. You see? ..

– Fu … how disgusting …

Pa.s.sengers carts quietly whispering to each other.

Since the outside does not look at that, the pa.s.sengers involuntarily began to regard each other. And since in the long road topic of conversation inevitably ran low, of course, that even those who initially struggled pretended that no one notices, pay your attention to the other.

– …

“At such moments, you realize that a good ear – not always good” – thought the Torah.

He could not relax – to his ears and then came the unwelcome sounds. Of course, he could behave as if nothing had happened, but he kind of understood why the other pa.s.sengers looked on with suspicion, and even began to regret his decision.

As planned … such large wagons intended for use by ordinary citizens.

Unlike urban carts, these are used to move between towns and villages, ie for longer trips. Know and traders for these trips used personal cars or coaches.

However, ordinary citizens were hardly any reasons why they would want to leave their town or village.

Of course, their life is not completely self-sufficient, but in everyday life and their homes completely suits them. Sometimes it happens that a man lived all his life, a single step without leaving their hometown.

So … the majority of pa.s.sengers travel must be a reason for which they were in it. Some were going to take part in some solemn event, the other – to visit relatives and friends, who was engaged in religious pilgrimage, someone might just went to see the world.

But even with all this … one of the pa.s.sengers has attracted particular attention.

Simply put, a denunciation of him feeling was in the air, filling the entire wagon.

– Thor … – called the same pa.s.senger, bowing his head in bewilderment.

If possible, the Torah would like to pretend that he is here at all to do with it, but it was not so easy.

– What? – He said irritably.

– Face. I do not like.

– …

Thor squinted and looked away from the window, placing it first on myself … and then sitting in front of his girl.

On the Seagull.

Whichever way he looked at her no, she was really beautiful.

Her beauty was so exquisite that she looked like a work of art.

The first thing that attracted attention to her, had long silver hair. Her skin was too pale and smooth, and it is against this background violet eyes seemed especially bright. They sharpened corners, reminding cat eyes, but they did not have to drop and severity. On the contrary, all of it was so graceful and fragile, it seemed, could crumble into the arms of unwary.

She was like a statue carved out of snow and ice.

Her black-and-white dress only further emphasized image. Her collar and looked like a b.u.t.terfly in her hair decoration, framed blue stones, but they could not change the fact that the only element of color in her eyes seemed way.

In general, it was cute. Very cute.

So … it attracts increasing attention, even when sitting in the corner of the wagon.

– Oh-ho-ho – Thor squinted and stared eye to the Seagull. – Whose. There. Face. You. I do not like?

Torah deliberately separated the words from one another, so that it can not pretend to be, if he had not heard him.

But Gull quite frightened. On the contrary, in response to a gesture sure she threw forward a finger pointing at the nose Torah.

– The Torah.

– … Do you think that I have so distorted face, that we can talk about what it is you “do not like” and poking a finger at me?

– Gloomy. All mown.

– …

Toru stifled the urge to a prolonged groan, and then replied, trying not to show anger (because they attract more attention he did not want):

– Seagull. To begin, I will correct you.

– M?

– Look askance at you.

– …?!

Seagull dumbfounded raised his hands to his face. She felt her cheeks and forehead … and then in awe said:

– A shocking fact.

– And it’s not in the face.

– In body?!

This time Seagull patted himself on the chest and the hips … and then, as if suddenly realizing something, nodded and said:

– Hope for the future.

– What are you talking about?

– With gasket – Chaika said, pointing a finger at his chest.

– Eh? If it is packed, it really is actually you do not even … ugh! – Somehow unyav desire to break out screaming the whole cart, Toru said quietly, – Your body is nothing to do with! In general, such things are better not speak out loud!

– Mmm?

– Yes, do not you understand ?! Case in your luggage! You could not remove it on the roof ?! – Toru said, pointing to the goods Seagulls.

Inside the wagon along the side walls placed benches on which the pa.s.sengers sit. Rather, the “benches” were actually a wooden box nailed to the floor, and the pa.s.sengers are usually piled my luggage inside these boxes, while they themselves sit on top.

Thor sat in the back of the wagon, and Seagull directly across from him. They were so close that if stretched out his arms, it would be able to concatenate them.

Rather, it can be said about the Seagull that she was sitting, just because of other words to describe her position, did not come to mind.

In fact, it was in the air.

The box, which served her bench, her cargo was located.

The same coffin in which she kept her Gundo.

Seagull carried him on his back. But now he was standing on the coffin box, and Seagull hanging from it, sitting right on the air. Toru wanted to ask whether it is not hard … but Seagull looked surprisingly calm. It seemed she was in such balance that her knees and hips did not feel the load.

– Important. Necessary. Do not let go a single step.

– I know, I know.

Thor knew that this coffin for Seagulls is vital … sometimes more than her life. She always kept him in sight, but what’s there, reach, and could not calm down, if it was not there.

However, the girl who was carrying on his back a thing, designed for the transport of corpses could not attract the attention of the carts pa.s.sengers. What of Seagulls already difficult to look away, only exacerbates the situation.

At first, the driver in any did not want to let into the Seagull with the coffin, but it is (of course) so much stubborn, he finally gave up.

… But of course, that the other pa.s.sengers looked at her suspicious glances, trying to figure out who she is and what he does. Some of the people could read clear dissatisfaction. Only a fool would be glad that rode in a wagon with a clearly abnormal girl taschivshey on itself an ominous thing.

– Why do I do this … – handed the Torah.

Of course, they went on this wagon is not just.

They pursued the squad Alberic Gillette.

He was a knight, in whose possession clearly had its own carriage, and maybe even a car. Also, apparently, behind him stood a strong organization. If they tried to escape from him walking along the road, they would certainly have caught. That is why, even though the Torah squad and realized how hard the road they will, nevertheless decided to go through the mountains, and even hold them a few days to give opponents pa.s.s. They tried to use any methods.

… But of course, the Seagull, did not shine physical strength could not long endure such a pace.

Therefore, the Torah decided to go on the wagon, despite the risk of being discovered.

But…

“Srebrovlasaya girl with a coffin on his back.”

Naturally, such an unusual person to quickly attracted attention. If the very Seagull they could still somehow hide from prying eyes, then the coffin was impossible to do anything about it.

This coffin served as a kind of flag that says “we are here”, which gave the fugitives with giblets. Walk around with such a flag is hardly a wise decision.

But when the Torah think about it …

– What’s up, brother? – Appealed to him Akari. – If you have a concern, you can always share it with me.

– Yes, there is nothing special to share …

– I know that my brother thought deeply of the deep sea and the lofty heavens themselves, and it is unlikely that someone like me can help, but still.

– Thanks for the flattery, of course – sadly replied Thor. – But my thoughts are often superficial.

Even the fact that he gave Seagull hire themselves … or rather, that he decided to go with her, he must attack the simple excitement.

– No. You do not spend – Akari looked straight into his eyes Torah.

– From what I’ve been trying to hold you?

– No matter how you shy, I know you’re only pretending brainless brother.

– What is the point I behave this way?

– To seem more friendly, is not it? – Suggested Akari, for some reason, saying these words majestic voice.

Because she did not shine diversity in the expression of their emotions, then he spoke always with the same person for whom it was impossible to tell, she says, “now I’m going to kill you” or “I’m going to walk.” Because of this, even when she spoke quite ordinary things, they can be mistaken for something important.

– How it’s called? It seems … – Akari frowned and put a finger to his forehead. For a while she silently pretended to think hard and then … – Oh, yeah. So you’re more … exciting.

– …

Thor looked at his sister, trying to explain to her eyes, what utter nonsense she said.

– A, no. Forgive me, brother – Akari raised her hand as if going for something to swear, and said, – I was wrong. “Excite” Do not.

– Good.

– A touches.

– … In fact, I do not care – handed the Torah and sighed. – I just think that this situation is not so easy to leave.

– That’s right – Akari nodded. – At this rate, the rest of the pa.s.sengers will die because of you with emotion, brother.

– What kind of nonsense ?!

– Not at all. I already feel like dying from the emotion.

– Yes, shut up already, – growled the Torah and then voiced his thoughts – Do not you understand what I’m talking about what we can not attract so much attention?

– …I certainly understand. I’m just kidding.

– Exactly?

– Yes, probably.

– Why are you not sure?

“Maybe she does not understand what she says?” – Torah thought, but decided not to develop the idea.

– Ideally, I would like to never see those guys …

He talked about Alberico Gillette and his subordinates.

Knight, a mercenary and a.s.sa.s.sin.

Surprisingly even the fact that such raznosherstaya company was in the same place, not to mention the fact that they fought shoulder to shoulder. But even more striking is that the art of each of them were given first-cla.s.s soldiers.

Although the Torah and was able to win the battle with one of them … that did not mean that he would be able to win the next time.

It was not the game, not training, but the real battle, and win them depend on many factors. In other words, very much luck ran. A really strong warrior knew how to “win” no matter how he was lucky or unlucky. If a person was proud of his ability only defeat the enemy in a fair fight on an equal footing, he was a fool who did not reached and three days on this battlefield.

That’s why … the true art of war was that, in order not to fight at all. Key to frequent Wings of Victory in joining the fight only when it is absolutely necessary. Or, as the Torah teachers say:

“Remember that when the blade is removed from the sheath – the battle is already over.”

Whatever it was…

– We need to think about this when we get to the next town.

– Aha, – nodded Akari. – I also think that the Seagull have to sleep separately. As they say, the age of seven boys and girls have to sleep apart.

– So in fact you have long been in the same room with me spend the night, is not it?

– I’m your sister, I can.

– …Are you serious?

– I’m serious.

Glancing with some reason proud-looking sister on wasteland outside the window, the Torah a long sigh.

– Still, we need to “feet”, – he said in a low voice, so as not to hear the other pa.s.sengers. – Coach, car or anything else. I do not think that we will always come across friendly caravan wagons. Gull.

– M? – Heard his name, Seagull blinked, then he leaned toward him.

– You got a lot more of Finance, in the sense that money?

– A lot of?

– Well, I’m talking about whether you have enough money on a used car or a small carriage to travel.

– And … I confirm – Seagull nodded.

In fact it was quite rich. Given the fact that she was a princess, it was not surprising – apparently, it picked up with a money and jewels, when he fled from the palace. In any case, they do not need to worry about costs.

But … you can squander any wealth in the blink of an eye.

In addition, since they were on the run, the money they could still be useful. Then, at the critical moment when they would have to do something at any cost, they can count not only on brute force, but also to the power of money.

If you look with the future, the purchase of a vehicle at an early stage should save them a lot of money. It is unlikely that in the future they would have had other things on which they could rely. And not the fact that they would be given to use them.

– But mind you … – Tohru looked ahead for a cab where approximately walked ahead of the horse. – In contrast to the coaches, the machine can only manage a magician.

Machines can be considered a huge Gundo, sharpened by the movement. And since neither Torah nor Akari were not magicians, they could not control them.

– If we consider the movement speed and other factors, the machine – the best option. I would advise to make a choice in favor of the machine, not the coach. But mind you, Seagull – in this case you have to manage it. Do you understand?

– I see. Well – Seagull nodded emphatically.

Ibsom could be called one of the “standard” large walled cities Ferbista.

In other words,