Chapter 7
The lunch scene in the Student Council Room had changed a lot compared to the beginning — which was 2 weeks ago.
First of all, there was no longer any need for the Dinner Server Module.
After Miyuki followed Mari's lead, now even Mayumi was bringing her own bento.
While there was some initial skepticism towards Mayumi's previously unheard of culinary skills (that suspicion only came from Mari), as her skill level rose, she was now fully immersed in the practice of exchanging desserts.
Also, the number of participants had increased.
Unless specifically invited, Azusa usually ate with her peers in the classroom. That being the case, she had been summoned to the Student Council Room on a daily basis recently.
The willful reason behind this, if it could even be called that, was that apparently having only 1st and 3rd Year students would upset the balance. In the face of this, Azusa could only stew impotently over such a development — which was very like her.
For the record, the ratio of men to women was one to four.
If balance was actually an issue then the subject was doomed from the start, but this appeared not to be the problem.
"Tatsuya-kun."
"Yes, Chief?"
Just as everyone had finished eating lunch, Mari called out Tatsuya's name from across the table. (The seating arrangement was as follows: Miyuki sat next to Tatsuya, Mari was across from him, Mayumi across from Miyuki, and Azusa on Mayumi's other side.)
Mari tried to keep her face free of any facial expression, but could not hide her mischievous smile.
Yet, despite having such an expression, she still remained a handsome young lady.
"Yesterday, is it true that you were hustling Mibu from 2nd Year?" (!)
Thank goodness we already finished eating, Tatsuya thought.
If there was still anything in my mouth, that would be a horrible mistake.
"Surely using such coarse language like 'hustling' is unfitting for a lady such as Senpai."
"Ha ha ha, thanks for the reminder. Tatsuya-kun is probably the only one who sees me as a lady."
"Is that so? To not see his own girlfriend as a lady, it appears that Senpai's boyfriend isn't much of a gentleman either."
"That's not true! Nao is..."
At this point, Mari closed her mouth; her expression clearly said "That's torn it."
"..."
Towards his immediate superior — even though it was just the school's Chief of the Public Moral Committee — Tatsuya's face remained blank as he stared back.
"..."
"..."
"...Why aren't you saying anything?"
"...Anything you would like to comment on?"
In Mari's peripheral vision, a head of thick, wave-like black hair was bobbing up and down.
Even though she didn't want to, Mari still directed her gaze towards it.
Just as she expected.
Mayumi's back was to her as her shoulders shook uncontrollably.
She stared at this for half a second.
And immediately looked elsewhere.
Her eyes caught Tatsuya's gaze.
"...So, is it true that you were 'hustling' Mibu from the Kendo Club?"
It looked like she was trying to erase the previous scene.
Tatsuya glanced behind Mari.
Mayumi brought her laughter under control and shrugged her shoulders like an actress.
—There was no avoiding it.
Here, it's probably better to go with the flow, Tatsuya thought.
"That being said, can we stop using the term 'hustling'... This sets a poor example for Miyuki..."
"...Um, Onii-sama? By any chance, are you mistaken about Miyuki's age...?"
Miyuki reluctantly voiced her objection, but quickly retreated at Tatsuya's gaze.
Once again, silence returned to the scene.
Unfortunately, the dice had already been cast.
If this were shogi, there might have been some way to avoid it.
But given the mood at the scene... Alas, even Tatsuya could do nothing to change it.
By definition, perspective was something operated behind the scenes to bring about a certain outcome.
"...There was no such thing."
"Oh, is that so?
I heard that someone witnessed Mibu blushing furiously in a certain someone's company."
Tatsuya suddenly felt a cold draft emanating from beside him.
"Onii-sama...? Please, what is she talking about?"
This was not a misconception. Centered around Miyuki, the room's temperature was dropping dramatically.
"M-magic...?"
Azusa yelped in surprise.
Modern magic theory has spread to the domain of Superpower research.
In other words, one branch of modern magic focuses exclusively on the development of Superpowers.
The biggest difference between Ancient Magic and Superpowers is the need for additional activation steps beyond mere thoughts.
An example of this would be that modern magics do not require a CAD to activate.
At the same time, this does not mean that modern magics are the same as Superpowers.
Generally speaking, "Superpower Users" can only use one type; any more would only be variations of the original.
"Superpowers" systematized modern magic. By using Activation Sequences as raw materials and Magic Sequences as the method, this allowed the number of different magics to grow exponentially.
However, modern magics have also been overly differentiated, so if measured by the same standards as Superpowers, there would only be roughly twenty or thirty types. Even then, this would be an overwhelmingly larger number.
Modern Magicians use Magic Sequences to create elaborate magics. At the same time, for Magicians to use multiple types of magics, in addition to using Magic Sequences as a medium, they also need to use their own spirit to adapt to them.
Specialized magic, if refined to the point where it is on par with Superpowers wielded by Magicians, could be activated by pure thought without the need for intent or will.
However, for Magicians that use dozens of types of magic, to be able to activate magic without intent is pretty much impossible.
While Magic Sequences are processed in the subconscious, it still operates with intent, because unintentionally creating a Magical Sequence and subsequently activating it is impossible.
If a Magician capable of multiple types of magics unintentionally activated magics...
"That phenomena rewriting ability is quite strong..."
In response to Mayumi's murmuring, Tatsuya could only reply with a forced smile.
Even after expending the bulk of the "Superpower", the remainder still had the phenomena rewriting ability to change "reality".
Accidental magic, while a sign of magical immaturity, is also clear evidence of superb magical ability.
"Relax, Miyuki. I was just starting to explain. First, rein in your magic."
"I'm terribly sorry..."
Hearing her brother's voice, Miyuki drooped her head in shame as she started to regulate her breathing.
The room temperature stopped dropping.
"There's no need for air conditioning in the summer."
"It only takes an instant for the heat of summer to turn into frostbite."
Rather than trying to smooth things over, Mayumi's comment was phrased as a joke to resettle herself, to which Tatsuya glossed over.
Afterwards, Tatsuya conveyed Sayaka's conversation to everyone present.
"It appears that the movements of the Public Moral Committee have caused some level of backlash amongst the students."
Those last words cast a pall of gloom over Mari and Mayumi's faces.
"But, to say that we're doing this to score points, is this true?
At the very least, I have not heard of such a thing in the past week."
"Neither have I.
Due to my position, I have not inspected the actual premises, but given the disorderly state of things, it would be more appropriate to say that the Public Moral Committee has been overly lax."
In response to Tatsuya and Miyuki's comments, Mayumi expressed a forlorn expression while Mari shook her head and replied.
"That would be Mibu's misunderstanding. Maybe she was just overthinking things.
The Public Moral Committee is a purely honorary position, meaning there are no achievements or awards to speak of. Just like in actual combat situations, the evaluation of practice maneuvers holds no additive value."
"...That being said, it is true that they hold considerable power on school premises.
Especially for students that are dissatisfied with the school system, the Public Moral Committee members responsible for maintaining school rules are no better than being the dogs of those in power.
In other words, someone is manipulating this impression from the shadows."
Tatsuya could not feel unsurprised at Mayumi's words.
Unexpectedly, profound words.
"Do we know their identity?"
For him, this was the logical next step.
"Eh? No, because of the source of the rumors, it's not very easy to find out..."
"...If we acted on the individual in question, it is true that we may stop it."
But, to Mayumi and Mari, this was an unexpected line of questioning.
Mayumi's earlier comment was also something she let slip on accident.
Tatsuya looked directly into Mayumi's eyes.
Immediately, Mayumi turned aside to avoid his gaze.
This was the first time Tatsuya saw Mayumi faltering like this.
"What I'm asking is not the identity of the rumormongers, but the identity of the manipulator behind them."
Tatsuya felt something tugging on his sleeve.
As he shifted his vision, he found Miyuki tugging his sleeve beneath the table.
She was probably hinting that the conversation was too confrontational.
However, Tatsuya had no intention of backing down at this point.
In his mind, the vision of the individual who fled after attempting to ambush him arose. Also, he could not forget the red and green bracelet that some of the students wore.
"For example, a 'Blanche'-like organization?"
Faltering transformed into utter shock.
Mayumi, with Mari alongside her, froze.
Azusa's eyes widened as she stared at the two of them.
From her reaction, Azusa had no idea what was going on — Tatsuya thought.
"How, do you know that name..."
"It's nothing really, since it's hardly classified information. Even if there is censoring involved, frankly it's impossible to completely stifle any and all leaks from the source."
From Tatsuya's perspective, for Mayumi to be shocked to this level was even more amazing.
The International Anti-Magic Political Organization "Blanche".
Their manifesto called for an end to political systems that treated Magicians as superior, and eliminating the difference in treatment caused by the presence of magical abilities.
However, the idea that this country's Magicians received preferential treatment from the political system was false.
To be precise, since Magicians were treated like tools to be used by the military and other government branches, to say it was "inhumane" treatment would be closer to the truth.
This was because when compared to the neighboring country with the highest population in the world, there was no other way to match the sheer difference in the number of troops that could be mobilized besides adopting a quality over quantity approach.
It was true that Magicians serving in the military or the government received a higher salary, but that was in compensation for increased labor as well as expended life energy.
The criticisms leveled by the Anti-Magic Organizations focused solely on the lack of their own benefits, and thus created anti-establishment organizations, of which "Blanche" was the most active.
Thanks to the political freedom guaranteed within this country, criticism directed towards the government was not banned or suppressed.
Historically, the Anti-Magic Movement had always been easily linked with criminal activity. In reality, there were several examples of Anti-Magic Organizations delving into terrorism.
The present incarnation of Blanche, an organization that put the Department of Public Safety on high alert, was such an example.
Also, the bracelet worn by the student that attempted to use magic to ambush Tatsuya bore the emblem belonging to "Egalite", one of "Blanche's" subordinate organizations.
Presently, there was no direct link between Blanche and Egalite, but using the Blanche name was an effective advertising method for attracting anti-establishment youth.
Anyone remotely familiar with the proceedings would know this.
The total number of people that had infiltrated the campus was currently unknown, not to mention that the ambushing student may have been the one responsible for all this.
However, given that the infiltrators were personnel with actual combat capabilities and not mere ideological sympathizers, it was very likely that they had made extensive preparations for First High.
"Nothing positive can come out of trying to cover these things half-heartedly. Hm, I wasn't criticizing the President, it's just that the government's approach is too ineffective."
Despite Tatsuya's comforting words, Mayumi's expression did not brighten.
"...No, it's just as Tatsuya-kun said.
Since organizations that view Magicians as enemies already exist, no matter how unreasonable they are, rather than using inappropriate methods to cover their existence, we should bring the truth to light and promote information exchange on both sides...
We avoided the direct confrontation — no, we escaped from it."
Now, her tone turned self-reproachful.
"That can't be helped."
The liberating response was tinged with a cold tone.
"This school is a state-run facility.
With our status as students, despite not being actual public servants, we cannot escape the fact that any school-related activities or student council members are limited by governmental policies."
"Eh?"
In a voice devoid of warmth, as if the incoming comment could not be properly processed in the brain, Mayumi stared blankly at Tatsuya.
"...In other words, given the President's position, the only thing you can do is deal with this business in secret."
As she stared at Tatsuya, who looked away, Mari bent her lips.
"Ho ho, so even Tatsuya-kun has a gentle side."
"But, the one who kept questioning the President was Shiba-kun..." Azusa softly murmured.
Mari immediately followed up the attack.
"Bring them down then pull them up by yourself, that's quite the gigolo's trick. Even Mayumi is not immune to such a display. It looks like we can't underestimate Tatsuya-kun."
"W-wait, Mari, don't say such strange things!"
"Your face is red, Mayumi."
"Mari!"
The Student Council President and Chair of the Public Moral Committee started going back and forth.
During this time, Tatsuya looked skywards with an unreadable expression.
Even knowing that his sister was coldly gazing at him this entire time, the only thing he could do was pretend not to see it.
"Okay... It's about time to return to class.
Let's go, Miyuki."
Tatsuya expressed his intent to return towards the still bickering Mayumi and Mari, and then rose from his seat.
Miyuki's foul mood was thankfully dispelled by Tatsuya's earnest comforting.
Even though he saw a completely red Azusa flee towards the console in the corner of the room, this was not something Tatsuya paid any extra attention to.
"Ah, Tatsuya-kun, wait a second.
I say, Mayumi, stop, stop, I have something important to say."
"...It's probably best to wait until after school, then we can have a proper conversation."
"Got it, got it... Really, didn't think he'd care that much...
So Tatsuya-kun, how did you reply in the end?"
"I'm the one waiting for a reply, and I will decide after hearing that."
Yesterday in the cafeteria, Sayaka was unable to answer the question Tatsuya posed.
—After telling your thoughts to the school, what would you do then?
Sayaka could only make an "Ah" or "Oh" type of sound, and was unable to frame a meaningful answer.
Thus, Tatsuya left her with some homework.
He would listen to her again after she had sorted through her thoughts.
"Because of our earlier conversation, I feel that this isn't something we can ignore."
"—We're relying on you."
"There's no need for that. I'm not sure what this is about yet."
"As long as it's within your capabilities."
"It's kind of hard to tell whether there are expectations riding on this or not... Forget it, I can accept it if it's only this level."
This was truly something that couldn't be ignored, and Tatsuya wasn't just being polite. In terms of the activities from Anti-Magic Organizations, if it remained only at the systemic level, then there would be no need for him to interfere, but violence directed towards people in important positions was another story. As the representative for all 1st Year Students, there was no guarantee that Miyuki would not be a target. Granted, he didn't believe that any cheap parlor tricks from criminals could harm Miyuki, but it was better to err on the side of caution.
"Within my ability, I shall do my utmost."
As she watched Tatsuya respond and Miyuki bow in departure before leaving, Mari softly muttered to herself.
"That, would probably bring about the best result."
Due to the nature of the job, Public Moral Committee members did not need to report to headquarters every day.
Even the Chair spends most of her time in the Student Council Room.
Because most of the members were selected for their martial skills, work skills and organization were not their forte. Add on the lack of input from management, and this was how the room turned into a disaster zone.
Prior to Tatsuya's intercession during the recruitment week, he was the only one with a background in work skills, and thus — regardless of his desire — this had established his position within the Public Moral Committee.
Today, despite being his day off, Tatsuya had been called in by Mari to help organize and write the reports for the recruitment week incidents. —Even though he was called in to help, in reality he was the only one working on it.
This situation was truly out of his control.
He originally planned to use the time after school to browse the unreleased files stored in the magic universities and affiliated magic high schools using the terminals in the school library, but thanks to this and that, his research had gone nowhere.
(At any rate, let's finish all the reports by today...)
Despite knowing that it was meaningless, Tatsuya couldn't stop himself from sighing. He planned on logging out of the terminal, then meeting up with Miyuki.
Just like reading a stopwatch, the screen chimed an incoming message notification.
It even included the school emblem.
In other words, this was not something that students could ignore — a summoning notification that usually entailed a lesson from the staff.
Tatsuya adjusted his posture in the chair and, of course, did not ignore the message and opened it.
The sender's name was "Ono Haruka".
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