For High School Students, the conference might seem like something casual, but for the participating adults, the Master Clans Conference is nothing less than a serious duel, which concerned their very lives.
The venue was in Hakone, held in a rented conference room in a luxurious hotel. As the start of the meeting approached, the seats of the round table were filled.
Casually dressed in a copper brown sweater, that wrapped his tall and sunburnt body, was the cutthroat Head of the Ichijou Family, Ichijou Gouki. Residing in Kanazawa, he had recently celebrated his 42nd birthday a few days ago. His occupation was being a Seabed Mining Company President. With her hair tied up, and donning an elegant kimono, was the Head of the Futatsugi Family, Futatsugi Mai. Residing in Ashiya, 55 years old. She was a major shareholder of a Food Industry Company.
Wearing a jacket on top of a polo shirt, coupled with a rough look, was the petite yet athletic middle-aged Head of the Mitsuya Family, Mitsuya Gen. Residing in Atsugi, 53 years old. He, for lack of a nice way of putting it, was an International Arms Dealer. Enveloped in a wine red formal one piece was the beautiful Head of the Yotsuba Family, Yotsuba Maya. No matter how one looked at it she looked to be only 30 years of age, but she is actually 47 years old.
Neatly dressed but also having a plain appearance, like an unrefined businessman was the Head of the Itsuwa Family, Itsuwa Isami. Residing in Uwajima, 49 years old. He was the director and the owner, of a Shipping Company.
Short, yet straight, brown hair, and wearing a pantsuit, the glamorous woman was the Head of the Mutsuzuka Family, Mutsuzuka Atsuko. Residing in Sendai, 29 years old. She was the owner of a Geothermal Power Plant Excavation Company.
Somewhat old fashioned and reminiscent of the elite businessmen of the 1980's to 1990s', was the Head of the Saegusa Family, Saegusa Kouichi. Residing in Tokyo, 48 years old. Wearing lightly colored spectacles, even indoors, was a characteristic trait of his. He is a Venture Capitalist.
Wearing a three-piece suit without a tie and his hair gathered up, was the Head of the Yatsushiro Family, Yatsushiro Raizou. Residing in Fukuoka, 31 years old. He was a lecturer in at a university and a major shareholder of a Multi-Communication Company. Dressed in an overseas brand three-piece, the white-haired gentleman was the Head of the Kudou Family, Kudou Makoto. Residing in Ikoma, 64 years old. He was the shareholder, investor and creditor of various Military Industrial Companies. The bald man in full formal Japanese attire, a haori hakama, was the Head of the Juumonji Family, Juumonji Kazuki. Residing in Tokyo, 44 years old. He was the owner of a Civil Engineering and Construction Company that has a connection with the National Defense Force. These were the current Ten Master Clans, and their respective Heads. In addition, only Juumonji Kazuki was accompanied by his son, Katsuto.
Once all the members were present, the door closed. The one who locked the door was the youngest of them all, Katsuto.
"Juumonji-dono, has your condition improved?" The first to speak was the eldest, Kudou Makoto. All Families were equal within the Ten Master Clans. There was no hierarchy of any sort. Such a belief was obvious due to the usage of a round table in the hotel.
But to carry out a meeting without a chairperson was unconducive. So among the Family Heads, it had become an unwritten law that the eldest would have the role of facilitating the meeting. Makoto inquiring about Juumonji Kazuki's health condition was due to the fact that previously he had been absent from the Master Clans Conference, with Katsuto going in his place. For the other Heads, it had been actually 3 years since their last meeting with Kazuki.
"In regards to that, I have an announcement to make to everyone."
Hearing Makoto's words, Kazuki stood up. Speaking while seating was the standard in the Master Clans Conference so his attitude seemed to give the feeling that it was an important announcement.
"This may be sudden but, I, Juumonji Kazuki, will use this meeting as a means of handing over the seat of Head of the Juumonji Family to my son Katsuto. With that in mind, I would like all of you present to bear witness."
Exchanging glances with surrounding members, while staring at Kazuki, each Head had varied responses but, not one of them freely chattered.
"That is quite a brash thing to say." Makoto said on behalf of all the other members present.
"I have been considering this for quite some time. Having reached adulthood, I believe Katsuto has also been thinking about it. Occupying the seat of the Head and having no ability as a Magician... such a thing, not only speaking for the Juumonji Family, but for the Ten Master Clans, would not be desirable. Thus I've made such a decision."
"You mean to say, you can no longer use magic?"
The person who asked this was Ichijou Gouki. In the Master Clans Conference, difficult topics that had to be broached were numerous.
"Since 3 years ago, I have been suffering from a disease that has caused a decline in my magic power. 2 years ago, I was at the stage where I could no longer fight, as such virtually left all the duties of being Head to Katsuto. And then 3 months ago, I lost all use of my magical abilities." Kazuki's explosive message reverberated amongst everyone.
"A sickness that causes a decline in magic? This is the first time I heard of such a thing. I know this is impolite but, as a Magician this is a big problem. Do you have more information? Are there no cures?" The person asking was Saegusa Kouichi. For him, when in the Master Clans Conference, talking came first and the debate second.
"Saegusa-dono, such a worry is unnecessary. For it is unique to the Juumonji Family."
"Unique only to your family? Are you sure?"
"Saegusa-dono." As Kouichi tried to question further, he was softly chided by Maya.
"It would be better if you refrain from asking anything more than that."
"That is true. Do not pry into the business of other families. That is a rule not only followed by the Ten Master Clans, but the Magic Community as a whole. It is as Yotsuba-dono says, shall we cease such questioning? Juumonji-dono has already said that Magicians of other families will not catch such a disease, isn't that good enough?"
Futatsugi Mai followed up on Maya's opinion. After Kudou Makoto, as the next eldest, she held the role of being the arbitrator during the Master Clans Conference.
"Very well, I understand. Juumonji-dono, I apologize for my actions."
Kouichi withdrew quietly. Let alone Maya, he had no reason to be stubborn towards Mai.
"No, I don't really mind it." As Kouichi replied as such, Kazuki faced Maya and Mai and showed gratitude with his eyes.
"Now then, everyone. Are there any opinions about the Juumonji's Succession?" About Kazuki's question,
"Even without our presence, I know it would be fine for the Juumonji's Family matters to be settled internally, but... I have no objections. I would happily bear witness to the succession of Katsuto-dono.
"I too have no objections. Rather, I think it's quite an honor. I would happily be a witness."
As Maya raised her volume, Mutsuzuka Atsuko continued. Atsuko had an admiration for Maya, so often when disputes broke out, she would often take Maya's side. One of the Yotsuba Branch Families, the Shibata Family's eldest son, Katsushige commuted to Sendai's Fifth High School. Such a thing was partially due to the friendliness of Atsuko to Maya.
"I have no intention to protest against other family's succession matters. I wish Katsuto-dono the best of luck in his future role as the Head. It's unfortunate for Kazuki-dono, but, for putting forth so much effort for the Japanese Magic Community, thank you for your hard work.
Perhaps because of what happened earlier, Kouichi actively showed his support. With both Maya and Kouichi accepting Kazuki's proposal in concert, the remaining Heads congratulated Katsuto, and gave words of appreciation for Kazuki.
"Now Katsuto-dono. As the new Head of the Juumonji Family, please sit in that seat. Lastly, Makoto prompted Katsuto, recognizing him as the Head of the Juumonji Family.
Sent by Katsuto to this room, Kazuki left the room, Katsuto sat in the seat for the Head of the Juumonji Family. With that adjustment, the Master Clans Conference began.
"Then Ichijou-dono."
"The mountain recesses of the Hokuriku-San'in regions have seen no movement that might become a problem. There have been no signs observed that the New Soviet Union and the Great Asian Alliance are working on an intrusion." Prompted by Makoto, Gouki made a report on the observations of the activities of opposing governments.
"Mutsuzuka-dono"
"The T?hoku region has seen no irregularities."
"Futatsugi-dono."
"Hanshin is as usual. Should there be any eyesores, I will immediately set out to clean it up."
"...Futatsugi-dono, be careful. Itsuwa-dono."
"No movements have been observed in the Shikoku region.
"Yatsushiro-dono."
"Much like the Hanshin region, the Kitakyushu region is as usual."
"Is that so? Keep a look out and be careful."
This report was in regards to the activities in the areas which each family was in charge of. The Hokkaid?, Ogasawara and Okinawa regions were under the jurisdiction of the Magicians from the National Defense Forces, even the Ten Master Clans could not raise a hand so easily. Other than those areas, the mountain areas of the Hokuriku-San'in region is under the Ichijou Family, T?hoku the Mutsuzuka Family, Hanshin- Ch?goku the Futatsugi Family, Shikoku the Itsuwa Family, the Kyushu area excluding Okinawa was under the Yatsushiro Family, and Ky?to- Nara-Shiga-Kii the Kudou Family. Furthermore, the Mitsuya Family actively provided the know-how to the Magicians of the Defense Forces and of the applications of the Third Research Laboratory, while cooperating with the other Houses of the "Three". The Saegusa Family as well as the Juumonji Family were in charge of the Kant? region, including Izu, while the Yotsuba Family is in charge of T?kai as well as the Gifu-Nagano Prefectures.
"Saegusa-dono."
"The Kant? region has had an increase in Anti-Magician Activities. It's not at the level where interference is necessary, but I think sooner or later we will have to make a move. Also, there was some suspicious activity in Yokosuka. Perhaps they are planning sabotage."
"Does Juumonji-dono share the same thoughts?"
"In regards to the Anti-Magician Movement, the Juumonji Family and I share the same opinion as Saegusa-dono. In regards to the saboteur, it is unfortunate, but we couldn't catch him."
"Hmm. Regarding the so-called Humanists, let's discuss this later. Then, Yotsuba-dono."
"While absent in Kant?, the Humanists have begun encroaching upon T?kai. Now then, Saegusa-dono, Juumonji-dono."
"Yotsuba-dono, what is it?"
Addressed by Maya, Kouichi answered with a smile. In that smile, elements other than sociability were slightly mixed in. The only time Kouichi would show a fluctuation of any emotion was when the other member of the conversation was Maya.
For Maya, she had never directed a gaze of concern towards Kouichi. No matter what, she would always return a look that seemed to say whatever.
"There is suspicious activity in Izu. We propose tighter surveillance." Now was no exception. Glancing coldly and uninterestedly at Kouichi, the eye that seemed to ask why are you looking at me, then only gave a perfunctory reply.
"I understand. If you don't mind, could you explain a little as to what kind of activity it was." The one who said so in a dignified voice was Katsuto. Though surrounded by seniors, he seemed to be indifferent to such a fact.
"I don't mind. Last week, a small cargo ship that arrived at the Yokosuka Port via the North American route is currently anchored at the Numazu Port. We were observing that cruiser owned by the USNA Embassy. As of now, the embassy's cruiser disappeared but, our surveillance of the cargo ship is still continued.
"Yotsuba-dono, do you know of the whereabouts of the cruiser?"
Kouichi posed another question towards Maya.
"I don't know. Perhaps it is at sea." Though it seemed like Maya gave an irresponsible reply, originally it was supposed to be Kouichi that was responsible for investigating. The Juumonji Family is better suited for combat. so even though both were in charge of the Kanto-Izu region, the Saegusa Family was in charge of the investigation work.
"Very well, our family will investigate this issue. With the increase in Anti-Magician activity.... if that cargo ship has humanist passengers, then the USNA authorities might chase it as well. Numazu is Yotsuba- dono's territory but, the issue is that ship entered the harbor of Yokosuka. Our family will continue to pursue this as well."
Obviously understanding that, Kouichi summarized the situation flawlessly.
"Eh, I look forward to working with you." Nodding, Maya did not further discuss the topic of Heigu's boat and Canopus' cruiser.
As the regular reports concluded, the conference room's atmosphere changed.
"Kudou-dono. Firstly, I have something I would like ask about this location." The remark which heralded trouble was made by Kouichi.
"Saegusa-dono, go ahead." With a sighing expression of patience, Makoto prompted Kouichi to go ahead.
"Very well, thank you for sparing me some time." Saying that, Kouichi faced Maya.
Once again, a certain mood drifted from Mutsuzuka Atsuko to Yatsushiro Raizou. Kouichi (with a gentlemanly attitude) turned to Maya, something that could be said to be a familiar sight in the Master Clans Conference.
"Yotsuba-dono, congratulations on your decision about your successor."
"Thank you." Both Kouichi and Maya had fake smiles plastered on their faces. Beneath the façade, Kouichi had a provocative glimmer in his eye, while Maya returned a cold gaze. No matter how one looked at it, both seemed ready to fight.
"But, regarding your son's engagement issue, I'm afraid I cannot agree to that."
"Why? If I remember correctly, personal issues like marriage have no necessity to seek approval from the Master Clans Conference. Am I wrong?" Before any voices of approval could be interleaved, Maya rebutted Kouichi.
"Indeed if it was only a marriage, I wouldn't be saying this. But when the possibility of ruining potential talent exists, it's a different story." With the exception of Kouichi and Maya, everyone's eyes focused on Ichijou Gouki. Gouki's mouth was twisted into a bent shape, with arms folded. His face seemed to voice his thoughts "In such a place and time..."
How does consanguineous marriage impact a Magician's quality? Such research has not made much progress, and thus is a topic yet to be concluded. Some researchers have claimed it is harmful, while some have claimed it beneficial. But, above the fact that the risk of genetic abnormalities is assumed, it is considered that it is better that marriages with blood relationships too close be avoided. Actually among the Numbers, the law tends to discourage even marriage among cousins.
Kudou Makoto interlaced his fingers on the table, closing his eyes. From the side, he looked like he was deep in thought.
"It's just an inclination, it is not forbidden. There are real examples too." The one who refuted Kouichi in a weary voice was not Maya.
"Eh. Just as Yatsushiro-dono said, even among the 28 Houses, there are sanguineous couples. But in that case, they have different mothers. Considering Yotsuba-dono's current case, it cannot be discussed on an equal basis."
"Even if they weren't cousins, you can go back to the grandparents and find the father is related by being cousins with the other's husband. Even when the blood relations are distant, the element of risk still exists in sanguineous marriage, doesn't it?" This time it was Mutsuzuka Atsuko who refuted Kouichi's claim.
"The risk is never zero. The only question is to what degree, Mutsuzuka- dono." But, Atsuko's remark could not cause Kouichi to falter.
"The reason I object to the Yotsuba Family's Successors' engagement, is that they are monozygotic twins, with very close blood ties. No different from a marriage between half-siblings. Is that not the case?"
Atsuko did not reply. Kouichi ignoring his emotional intention, his logic held persuasion.
"A marriage between cousins may be recognized by law. But if it becomes a marriage between half-siblings, then it could even be called a circumvention of the law."
"Saegusa-dono, that is going too far."
Futatsugi Mai gently restrained the extreme phrase, circumvention of the law. But, Mai didn't seem to show any intention to oppose Kouichi's claim.
"Apologies. I've indeed gone too far. Please forgive me, Yotsuba-dono."
Maya ignored Kouichi's apology.
"So in the end, what do you want to say Saegusa-dono?" Ignoring everything, she cut straight to the point to seek what Kouichi's request was.
Stopping even Kouichi's smooth tongue, Kouichi's face in the direction between Itsuwa Isami and Mutsuzuka Atsuko, staring at Maya.
"What I seek is very simple. I believe the successor to the Yotsuba Family, Shiba Miyuki-dono, and Shiba Tatsuya-dono's engagement should be cancelled. Maya returned Kouichi's stare. Both Maya and Kouichi's line of sight met.
Hidden beneath his light colored lenses, the emotion that crossed his remaining left eye was either joy or hatred.
"My apologies. May I add in something?" The person who cut into the high tension between the two was Ichijou Gouki.
"Yotsuba-dono, though our family has yet to receive an answer from yours, I should admit that what Saegusa-dono has said was influenced by us. As such, could you please consider our request?"
"The issue regarding the request for the engagement between your family's Masaki-dono and Miyuki?"
"Yes." Returning a face of fortitude, Maya languidly sighed deeply.
"Masaki-dono is the Ichijou Family's successor is he not? Miyuki has also been confirmed as the successor of our family. Even if I put aside the fact that it is inappropriate of you to request an engagement when a prior one has been confirmed, what you speak of is impossible."
Maya clearly sought to offend Gouki —— or so was her guise —— Gouki replied in a chilly tone.
"I apologize for being rude. But we too are making a serious request. It is not a joke of any sort."
"A serious request? To seek the hand of my niece who's already engaged to someone, what part of that is a serious request?"
"My son genuinely hopes to tie the knot with Miyuki-dono. If you were to accept our proposal of marriage, then we intend to give Masaki to the Yotsuba Family."
The round table was astir. Carrying the title of "Crimson Prince", Ichijou Masaki demonstrated a degree of power that's combat worthy of that title even at the age of 13, also during the 2095 Yokohama Incident, even now as a 17-year-old youth, his reputation as a first-class combat magician is well known throughout the Ten Master Clans. For Gouki to say that it would be fine to let go of such an heir. No matter how one looked at it, the deal was very much favorable to the Yotsuba Family. Since there was no amount of deception in Gouki's words, even Maya had to recognize the proposition.
"Is that so? But I still cannot accept your request." Although the discomfort disappeared from Maya's expression, her attitude did not turn cold.
"...The reason, may I hear it?"
"For Ichijou-dono, as a parent, to hope to fulfill your child's wishes, that is something I understand as well. But if Ichijou-dono has considered your child's feelings, then as an aunt, I must also consider my niece's feelings."
"Miyuki-dono's feelings?"
"Yes. My niece, Miyuki, likes my son Tatsuya. I believe that Tatsuya too cares for Miyuki. I wish to respect both their feelings."
To Maya's words, Futatsugi Mai and Mutsuzuka Atsuko both deeply nodded. Such words after all resonated more easily with the female gender.
"Are Miyuki's feelings unmovable? Could you perhaps give Masaki a chance?"
"A Chance?"
"Miyuki-dono likely does not know much about Masaki yet."
"Is that not the same for Masaki-dono? Aside from appearance, your son likely does not know much about Miyuki."
Subtly saying "Masaki was only attracted to her looks" made Gouki feel very ashamed. Despite it being the truth, he was defiant.
"Thus, I hope you would give them a chance for them to become acquainted. If both of them get to know each other well, and still she refuses to choose Masaki, then we will give up."
"Ichijou-dono... Are you aware that since earlier, your family has been rather disrespectful to both Miyuki and Tatsuya? Especially towards my son, Tatsuya. What Ichijou-dono is saying can only be interpreted as calling Tatsuya inferior as a man in comparison to Masaki-dono."
Gouki was at a loss of words. He had no intention of saying so but, he may have spoken out as a doting parent. Towards Maya's harsh words, even Mai, who's role as the stopper, did not say anything to chide her. This was to say that the majority of the Family Heads felt that Gouki should be accountable for what he said. Then Kouichi who did not think so, once again dredged up his claims.
"However if one were to shelve their romantic feelings and look at it objectively, I think an engagement between Masaki-dono and Miyuki- dono would be a good match. More than anything, it would avoid any harm that could come from a sanguineous marriage."
"Saegusa-dono... Are you saying that Miyuki-dono's feelings are not worthy of consideration?"
Mitsuya Gen, who had been silent until then, reproved Kouichi in a bitter voice. But Kouichi did not withdraw.
"Suppressing one's emotions to a degree is necessary, especially as a successor to one of the Ten Master Clans. Is that not the case for everyone here?" No voice of objection gave rise. What Kouichi said, everyone present knew.
"Also, Miyuki-dono is still young. If she were to get to know Masaki- dono, she may change her feelings."
"Is that so... chemistry between a man and a woman, if they do not get to know each other, one will never know." The first voice who supported Kouichi, was Itsuwa Isami. But the one who was most surprised at Isami's words was most likely Kouichi. Though not apparent in his expression, Kouichi doubted Isami's intent in his heart.
"I too thought it was a good pair, requesting for an engagement with Saegusa-dono's daughter, but... Mayumi-dono and Hiroshi's character didn't mix well, and in the end it did not go anywhere."
As Isami said, right before the Master Clans Conference, the Itsuwa Family broke off talks of marriage.
"Kouichi's claim that an engagement between the Ichijou Family's Masaki-dono and the Yotsuba Family's Miyuki-dono is reasonable. Their marriage will bring more and more development to Japan's Magic Community. Not to mention Ichijou-dono has said he is willing to give the Yotsuba Family Masaki-dono, I don't think it's such a bad deal to Yotsuba-dono."
With Isami's support, the winds began to change. In that instant, the tail wind was definitely blowing for Kouichi and Gouki. But that wind was about to be broken in an instant.
"Itsuwa-dono. Our family does not consider or seek benefits from Miyuki's marriage."
Isami awkwardly looked down. Having realized his intention to induce discussion about short-term gain and loss, Maya flatly rejected him.
"I understand your stance; Miyuki is still young. I cannot say that the possibility of her feelings to change is zero. But that is as far as I can say, I think Masaki-dono should put in his own effort to move Miyuki's heart. If Masaki were steal Miyuki away from Tatsuya, then even I wouldn't tie up Miyuki. To the Yotsuba Family, we will serve any command from Miyuki, but we may yield regarding the seat of the son- in-law.
"So the engagement is not annulled?"
"In exchange, you would not mind if Masaki-dono were to go after Miyuki-dono?"
Makoto and Mai confirmed Maya's meaning.
"That interpretation is fine. In the first place, dare I say, that Miyuki and Tatsuya's marriage is a legitimate thing recognized by the law. It's not anything that must result in accepting any objection by the law, is it?" To Maya's words, Mai nodded.
"It is certainly as Yotsuba-dono said. Sanguineous marriage does indeed carry some risk. That said, Saegusa-dono's claim exceeds the scope of decisions that can be made in the Master Clans Conference." Mai then moved her gaze from Kouichi to Gouki.
"Ichijou-dono, is that fine? Yotsuba-dono has said that despite Miyuki- dono's engagement, she will allow your son to interact with Miyuki- dono. The parents will not interfere with anything beyond that."
"...I understand. I will convey that to my son."
"I too, am fine with that." Both Gouki and Kouichi decided to lay down arms.
"By the way, the allowing of one to date while they have a fiancée also apply to Tatsuya-dono?"
Of course, Kouichi was not of the type that would raise the white flag without conditions. Under the gaze of Maya and Mai, Kouichi made a smile.
"As Itsuwa-dono has said earlier, the talks for the engagement between Itsuwa Family's Hirofumi and our Mayumi have broken down. If it goes well, I was hoping for Mayumi to marry Tatsuya-dono."
Kudou Retsu had been once referred to as a "Trickster" due to his magic, but perhaps in terms of personality, Kouichi possessed similar traits.
As everyone was tired from the miasma thrown by Kouichi, the Master Clans Conference had a break.
Then ten minutes later, this time it was Maya who began with a bombshell. Not an iffy thing like Kouichi's claim, but a big scandal.
"Everyone, I have something I would like to say."
"Oh. An issue raised by Yotsuba-dono is indeed rare. What would it be about." Encouraged by Makoto, Maya smiled at Kouichi.
A shudder ran down the spines of the rest of the Ten Master Clans Heads'. The extent of their antagonism was such that even Katsuto who had yet to see it felt the same. Maya slowly opened her glossy red lips.
"Has everyone heard of a man that goes by the name of Zhou Gongjin?"
The moment Maya said that, Makoto's body stiffened. Though Kouichi did not show any reaction but non-reaction was the same as saying that he indeed had knowledge about the subject.
"Zhou Gongjin...?"
"Yotsuba-dono, isn't that the famous Zhou Yu of Wu from the Romance of the Three Kingdoms?"
Maya shook her head while smiling in response to Mutsuzuka Atsuko and Yatsushiro Raizou's questions.
"Basing his headquarters in Yokohama's Chinatown, he's an Ancient Magician born on the continent. Taoists, I believe they were called, correct, Kudou-dono?"
"A, aah. Ancient Magicians from the continent are often called as such." Makoto used all his strength to suppress his body from trembling.
"Kudou-dono, what happened? You seem to have a bad complexion."
"No, it's nothing, Mutsuzuka-dono."
After tilting her head at the suspicious attitude of Makoto, she turned back to Maya's direction.
"So, what about this Zhou Gongjin?"
"Anti-Magic International Political Organization "Blanche". Hong Kong based International Crime Syndicate "No-Head Dragon". The sabotage forces of the Great Asian Alliance that caused the Yokohama Incident. And then the incident that took place in the heart of Tokyo, the Vampire Incident which took the world by storm: "Parasites". He is the man who helped orchestrate all of this, the mastermind that brought chaos to our country, or should I say, the mastermind designated to cause trouble in Japan." The conference room had a bustling atmosphere.
It wasn't that there was an increase in chatter, there were barely ten people in the room. It was not a topic one could freely discuss with those next to them.
But even so, the shock that took away the calm and composed attitudes of the Heads of the Ten Master Clans stemmed from Maya's short speech.
"Yotsuba-dono." Facing Maya, Raizou softly raised his hand. It seemed to be an unintentional habit from university.
"Just now you used the word "designated" in past tense, which is to say he has already been disposed of? Or that he has fled the country?"
"Assisted by Ichijou Masaki-dono, and Kudou Minoru-dono, Zhou Gongjin was killed by Tatsuya last October." Makoto expressed a feeling of surprise. He had heard the report from Masaki but he didn't hear from Minoru.
However, the change in his facial expression was not noticed by the other Heads. This was because all eyes were concentrated on Maya, excluding Kouichi, Gouki and Makoto, the Heads were nodding in admiration.
"Minoru-dono, which is to say, Kudou-dono's youngest son?" Makoto barely faked a smile while nodding to Raizou's question.
"The Ichijou Family's Masaki-dono, the Yotsuba Family's Tatsuya- dono, and the Kudou Family's Minoru-dono... how reliable." Mitsuya Gen broadly complimented.
"That's right. It really brings me joy to hear the next generation is growing up so splendidly. I can believe that the future of Japan's Magic Community is secure." Futatsugi Mai accompanied.
"Both Juumonji-dono and I feel that, even though they will only be juniors in the next generation, they are indeed reliable." Mutsuzuka Atsuko's words invited laughter from the seniors. However the peaceful atmosphere was shattered by Maya's next words.
"Saegusa-dono. Were you in collusion with Zhou Gongjin?" The round table returned to silence.
"...Yotsuba-dono, does that claim have a legitimate basis?" Itsuwa Isami squeezed out in a hoarse voice. Kouichi remained silent.
"Saegusa-dono. You used your subordinate, Nakura Saburou, to establish contact with Zhou Gongjin, indirectly using Civil Rights Party's Congressman Kanda to instigate the Anti-Magician Movement. Do you have any objections?" Kouichi slowly opened his mouth.
"Yotsuba-dono, I too, would like to hear the basis of this." Kouichi and Maya coldly glared at each other.
"If I may speak." In that tense moment, it was the youngest, Katsuto, who spoke up. In spite of the gazes focused on him, Katsuto began his testimony in a calm tone.
"The fact that Saegusa-dono instigated the Anti-Magician Movement is the truth. I heard it from Saegusa-dono himself." All the gazes on Katsuto, shifted to Kouichi.
"Saegusa-dono, do you have any excuses?" Atsuko sharply cross-examined Kouichi. Kouichi had a smile that had a feeling of complacency and calmness.
"What Juumonji-dono said is true. What Yotsuba-dono said is somewhat true as well. Just that the order is somewhat mistaken."
"The order? What do you mean?" Gouki spat out. But Kouichi's smile did not falter.
"My subordinate established contact with Zhou Gongjin, only after the Anti-Magician Movement was more stable after First High's Stellar Furnace Experiment. Aah, now that we're on this topic, that too was the achievement of Yotsuba Family's Tatsuya-dono. That experiment was highly evaluated by Rozen's Branch, and radically changed the winds. What a spectacular son."
"So, what about it?" Gouki irritatedly rebuked Kouichi. Kouichi did not delay the conversation any longer, or do anything that could irritate Gouki.
"When I established contact with Zhou Gongjin, it was to stop the Mass Media's attempts to target Magicians as a whole. Of course, I had to give something in return, something that would be disadvantageous to Japan's Magic Community."
"Aa, you're right. You joined hands with Zhou Gongjin after the instigation of the Anti-Magician Movement." Maya frankly admitted Kouichi's claim.
"But the fact that Zhou Gongjin caused so much harm to our country is an indisputable fact. To collaborate with someone like that, is very inappropriate for someone from the Ten Master Clans. Everyone, is that not the case?"
The reason Maya wasn't overly respectful with her words was due to this.
"Certainly." Ichijou Gouki expressed his consent briefly.
"It is as Yotsuba-dono said." Mutsuzuka Atsuko, "Unfortunately, it is as she said." Yatsushiro Raizou, "Saegusa-dono, at the time, I too said that it would have been better for you to stop." Juumonji Katsuto, "Saegusa-dono may have had his own ideas but..." Itsuwa Isami, "I cannot defend Saegusa-dono." Mitsuya Gen, "Saegusa-dono. No matter what your intents were, you crossed a line you should never cross, and collaborated with someone you never should have." Futatsugi Mai, everyone supported Maya. Kouichi, who was still smiling, was now cornered.
Gouki, Atsuko, Raizou, Katsuto, Isami, Gen, Mai's eyes, all pointed in Kudou Makoto's direction, who had yet to express his opinion.
But what Mai said to Kouichi at the end applied to Makoto as well. Though it could be said that his circumstances were different from Kouichi, he too had been in collusion with Zhou Gongjin. Makoto's worries were interrupted by a knock on the door.
"Would you mind if I enter?" The voice that likely came from the other side of the door was from an old man that all the members knew very well.
Sitting closest to the door, Katsuto stood up and looked at the rest. Though there were others who agreed, no one was shaking their head. Katsuto walked to the doorway, and opened the door. Standing behind the door was the retired Kudou Retsu.
"Sensei, I haven't seen you in a long time. Even so, what business do you have today?"
Mai invited Retsu in cordially. Katsuto tried to offer his seat but, Retsu smiled and waved his hand.
"Apologies but, I overheard the topic at hand." Retsu immediately cut to the chase.
Though there was nobody who would call it into question, it was a rule that the topics of discussion during the Conference were to remain absolutely confidential. The Kudou Family wasn't the first to use methods to leak the general basis of the conference.
"For everyone to hold Kouichi accountable is obvious. But, I would like for that to be put on hold." Retsu referred to Kouichi not as "Saegusa-dono" but by his first name. By doing so, he made it clear that his intent was not to speak as a former member of the Master Clans Conference but as the Patriarch of Japan's Magic Community —— the speech of an old man who held no authority.
"Instigating the Anti-Magician Movement was something I too discussed with Kouichi. And I did not stop Kouichi." Glances were exchanged in a flurry across the round table. Excluding Maya, Kouichi and Makoto; Gouki, Mai, Gen, Isami, Atsuko, Raizou, and Katsuto were all contemplating Retsu's real intentions. Makoto wasn't even aware of his father's intentions. The only people who had guessed Retsu's motive were Maya and Kouichi.
"Also, if you're talking about relations with Zhou Gongjin, then the Kudou Family is not innocent either. Although we did discuss this plan, we hadn't take any concrete actions. I took the magic provided by Zhou Gongjin to use Parasites as non-human magical weapons, with innocent young people as guinea pigs. If Maya's son did not stop it, then something irreversible might have occurred."
As Retsu faced Maya, she nodded and faintly smiled. She had intended to strike Kouichi firmly, but she wasn't driven by that goal. If Retsu wanted to cover for Kouichi, she had no intention of ruining the student- teacher relationship.
"If you compare the actions we took, Kouichi's do not exceed mine in severity."
"But Sensei." Retsu turned towards Gouki's direction and signaled for him to stop speaking.
"The Kudou Family shall retire from the Ten Master Clans. With that, could you consider this case concluded?"
"Senior..." Makoto looked up at his father with a shocked expression. As Retsu made his suggestion, he directed a harsh glance towards his son.
"Makoto, you are guilty of directly accommodating Zhou Gongjin. The incident caused by the Taoists sent by Zhou Gongjin has greatly inconvenienced Yotsuba-dono's son, and Ichijou-dono's son. For this kind of outcome, you should be speaking up, not me."
"Senior... Father!"
"Makoto, I'm disappointed in you."
"Sensei, would that be okay with you?" The one who soothed Retsu was Maya.
"If the Kudou Family takes full responsibility for this, then the Yotsuba Family shall consent. It would be fine if Saegusa-dono makes amends with future contributions."
Retsu did not cover for Kouichi just because of their teacher and student relationship. Makoto, his son, would hold higher priority in that case. Currently, the magic group with the most power in Japan isn't the Nation Defense Force, but actually the Yotsuba Family followed closely by the Saegusa Family. These two Families are the two greatest authorities in the Japanese Magic Community. If the Saegusa Family was to be excluded from the Ten Master Clans, it would be a very undesirable outcome. For the sake of maintaining order, they must remain a part of the Ten Master Clans. To ensure the Ten Master Clans that he created would survive, Retsu covered for Kouichi. Maya seeing through his intentions wasn't difficult.
"If Yotsuba-dono says so..."
"It's certainly true that if the Saegusa Family were to be removed from the Ten Master Clans, the hole left behind would be too great." Atsuko and Raizou agreed with Maya successively. Yet Kouichi's only eye still remind cold. There were no voices of objection. Kouichi looked at the circumstances with a poker face that lacked a smile. Maya faced such a Kouichi and gave a smile.
"Makoto, let's go."
Ordered by Retsu, Makoto stood up tardily from the Ten Master Clans seat.
"Everyone, excuse us." Retsu lightly nodded and left the meeting room. Makoto followed behind with drooping shoulders.
The door shut with a pattern sound.
"Very well then." As the stopped time began moving, Itsuwa Isami started with a harried voice.
"We must decide on a family to replace the Kudou Family."
"Tomorrow is the Selection Meeting. Why not do it then?" Mitsuya Gen objected,
"In the event where a vacancy occurs in the Ten Master Clans, a replacement member will be chosen to fill in that role. Even if it would only be a day, the Ten Master Clans should not be in a state where it's missing any members."
In replacement of Makoto, Futatsugi Mai supported Isami's suggestion as the next eldest.
"Is that so. Who would be a good choice? Any candidates?" Gouki questioned with a helpless expression.
"Then." As Maya said that, all eyes were on her.
"How about Shippou-dono? The Head, Takumi-dono is wise, though they have few disciples, they have considerable economic strength." Gouki, Katsuto and Isami glanced at Kouichi's face. Though it was well known by the others that the Saegusa Family and the Shippou Family had a bone to pick, Kouichi showed no sign of any reaction.
"Shippou-dono... any other recommendations?" There were no Heads who answered Mai's question.
"Very well, the new member of the Ten Master Clans is decided to be Shippou-dono. Though it will only be for a day but, who shall convey it to Shippou-dono?"
"Very well, I shall do so."
Katsuto raised his hand, and exited the conference room to make the call.
"Wait a moment, Juumonji-dono." Mai voiced out when his back was to her.
"We shall be taking a break for a while. How about resuming in 30 minutes?" There was no objection to Mai's words.
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