The Kensaku Team stepped forward, entering the meeting room. This was a most prestigious occasion. In this case, due to the nature of their work, and their swiftness, the Supreme Overlady of All Reality herself had demanded their presence. Kakki stepped inside, feeling deep anxiety flooding through her veins. A circular table was before enr, the walls covered in video screens and speaker systems. Sitting at the table were three individuals. One of them wore scorched battle armour, her hair a flaming red and her eyes a piercing yellow. Hanabi. Head of Security. I was expecting Remon...this is more...dangerous... Kakki wasn’t afraid, exactly, but mortified through sheer nervousness. Why had they called them in personally to present results this time? Was it just pointless paranoia? Why did she feel so...worried? The second woman at the table wore a surgical mask, green hair flowing down in perfect symmetry. Naosu. She’s in charge of medical affairs...what’s she doing here? Finally...there was a woman shrouded in crimson, as though her very clothing was the blood of her slain enemies. Her hair and eyes were both a deep purple. There was no mistaking the Supreme Overlady of All Reality herself Hanabi brought a form of dread through sheer volatility. Naosu’s coldness made her chilling to consider. But it was Aozora Chiyumi that was the real source of this penetrating anxiety. This just...didn’t happen. What was going on?

“Kensaku Team.” said Hanabi. “You successfully infiltrated Sartinaynia, encountered no resistance, collected a single reading of arcane activity, and decided to depart due to psychological stress. Is that correct?” Something about those eyes, that tone that seemed like a yell twisted into a voice barely above a whisper, made the woman seem like a volcano waiting to erupt.

Kakki stepped forward. Why do I feel like I’m being marked for execution? “That is correct. Mayonaka suffered the most stress. With our mission complete, we determined that the best-“

“Complete? Complete, you tell me?” Hanabi stood. “One reading is not complete! Your mission was going perfectly! You had every opportunity to gain more data, but instead, you fled immediately! It doesn’t make any sense! What if it was a glitch? It was never followed up by any other activity! You’re supposed to be a special forces team! The elite! The ones entrusted to deal with chaos in its most intense forms! And yet you scurry away from a nation where you encountered, in all your journey, in a capital city, a grand total of two armed personnel!?”

Kakki had no words. She wanted to defend herself...but she couldn’t. It was going so well until that point...why did we let that stress get to us then...why didn’t we endure, get our readings...I knew this. I knew this stuff. I knew what we had to do. Why did I fail...why...

Naosu spoke up, her voice devoid of pity. “Each of you will undergo extensive psychological evaluation to determine your continued usefulness. War trauma causes considerable behavioural impacts. That is unavoidable. However, if it prevents you from doing your duty, you will be replaced with others more suited for your current position. Do you understand?”

Nobody argued. Nobody protested. The entire team just nodded. Kakki was overcome with resignation. They’d let this get to them. They hadn’t done their duty properly. Was that betrayal? In a sense, it was. And she-“

“Wait.” Aozora’s voice echoed throughout the room. “At what time precisely did you obtain a reading?” Kakki was about to answer, but Yuna did it for her by handing the Overlady her phone, which still contained data from the arcane detection attempts. Aozora stared at the paper, her expression blank. She then stood, and tore through several files in a nearby cabinet, until at last she dumped a sheet down on the table. “Everyone. Even the team. Look at this.” Kakki and the others stepped closer. It was an arcanometer report, from the...same time. The exact same time, accounting for international differences. Sartinaynia was incredibly bright for that moment. A glitch? Had both their devices picked up on the same source of noise? No...wait...is she trying to... “The correlation is perfect. What happened after you picked up the reading?”

Mayonaka answered, her voice too timid for Kakki’s liking. “That...that was when the stress started. Just as Yuna got her reading...why didn’t we notice this before...”

Aozora stared Kakki in the eye. “It wasn’t random stress that the Kensaku Team went through. It was timed. Perfectly, right as we get a reading with all equipment we could pick one up with...that’s when you were afflicted. You wanted to head back. You wanted to abandon the mission. But it didn’t feel like that, did it? It felt like a mission complete to you. Naosu. I still want psychological analysis. But not just yet. Because I suspect there’s another cause at work here. I’ve read the reports. You were doing perfectly. Right until that point. I suspect, no...I believe...that someone else is responsible for this. They changed your mind. They altered your thoughts without you even realising.” Aozora allowed herself a small smile. “And I believe I know exactly where they are. Team, dismissed for now.” Kakki and the others, unable to formulate any kind of coherent speech at this point, departed as ordered, hearing a last few words in the background. “Hanabi, I want Kurushimi, Tokiko and Sawagi onscreen. We have some planning to do...”

———————————————————————

Aozora stared at the group she had assembled. Immediately before her were Hanabi and Naosu. Tokiko, Sawagi and Kurushimi were on video communications. She needed each of their expertise. For her coming mission was going to be a very delicate one. “Everyone, thank you for coming. We have compelling evidence to believe there may well be a magic user in that irrelevant direct democracy after all. It appears our team’s minds were messed with. Furthermore...consider the emptiness. They all mentioend that even before we got a reading. Something happened there...and I think I know what. This arcane user...there could be multiple, too...they’ve been doing something with their population. A direct democracy, ruled by someone who can manipulate minds...it’s the only way such a place could even survive for long. And they’re doing something to their people. We don’t know what. But if it’s an invasion...it’s our duty to stop it before it begins.”

“What exactly do you have in mind?” asked Hanabi. “We can’t just send another team in. We’ll get the same result.” She’s right, of course. But that’s not my plan at this stage.

“We can’t declare war, either.” said Tokiko. “They international community will declare us warmongers. And if anyone somehow gained ties to the place, they’ll come after us-“

“Will they?” asked Aozora. “It’s true, a full scale assault is an annoying option. I don’t want to wipe out an entire nation, either. I don’t want conquest or genocide or anything- and our reports show that what little we’ve seen of their armed forces are pathetic enough we could actually do it, even with our limitations. However. Infiltration won’t work. Diplomacy won’t work. So I’ll give them a choice. I’ll send a force in...with myself commanding from the front. I’ll ask whatever arcane users they have to submit to investigation. And if they don’t, well...we know one is in the city. It’s a long march, but we’ve faced far worse. If we overcame the Nightmare, a little walking won’t stop us. If they try to to manipulate us...well, I’ll notice. If anyone here has a chance against that...it’s me. I’ve dealt with this enough in my life to know how to handle it, and it’s seemingly a subtle thing. Yeah, subtle...that won’t be enough for them.”

“Are you sure?” asked Naosu. “It’s an incredible risk. If you were to find yourself overcome, we would face a difficult struggle.”

“And if we do nothing, whatever plans our enemy as may come to fruition. This isn’t just us we’re talking about here. It could be all of reality for all we know. I’m not letting that happen. Let the international community call me a lunatic or a warmonger, a few misguided insults are far easier to deal with than millions of deaths...”

Sawagi spoke up. “I’ll prepare a naval transport or two for you. I can’t promise much more than that and a small escort though. We were...hit hard...will it be enough?”

Kurushimi ceased slicing her skin, and gave a comment in her usual laid-back manner. “Given what we know...it may be...plenty...I will speak to Kaya...about air support...as well. And you will have...the finest troops...we can gather for you...my Overlady...”

“Excellent.” Aozora turned around for a moment. This is risky. Naosu’s right to be concerned. But...there isn’t much of a better option that I can see... “I’ve got some work to do now. More restoration...inform me at once when everything is ready. Until then, dismissed.”

—————————————————————

For the first time since the Nightmare War had ended, a Chudokuren offensive force prepared itself for landfall. Soldiers rushed through corridors, amphibious assault ships loading amphibious vehicles with ammunition. In the distance, a small aircraft carrier moved behind the main force, several aircraft as ready as they could hope to be. The flagship of the operation was the CKK Akumu, one of the amphibious assault ships. On board, row of soldiers lined up, each saluting. “Commander on deck!”

The ship’s captain stepped forward, examining his crew...and then promptly fell in line himself as a red figure made her way across the vessel. The Supreme Overlady of All Reality gave a hand gesture, informing the troops to stand at ease. “Defenders of order! Slayers of a forsaken heaven! Warriors of Kyoki Chudoku! We are bound by tyranny. The shores we now approach are those of a world of chaos. This nation is a direct democracy, a land of almost anarchy. They have few defences to our knowledge, but be wary. Should we make landfall, it is likely they will soon know. Should we commence our assault, it is likely they will try influence your minds. You are soldiers! Survivors! The scarred, the beaten who lived on. I see many of you have shūkei marks. Feel free to continue your tallies today. That pain may very well save your sanity. We have all endured horrors beyond imagination. Now, we stand at the precipice of a world that may yet suffer the same fate...and falter. Should I give the order, you are to make landfall. I wish to minimise collateral damage for now, but I know you will hesitate to do your merciless duty is it becomes necessary. Prepare yourselves. The time may yet be upon us to restore order here.”

With that, Aozora stepped away. The invasion plan was simple, should it be carried out. Their forces would behin a direct advance towards Meridan. They had map data from the city centre, some limited terrain data from their “tourists”, and some but not extensive military data. Air support would be provided by the carrier. Aozora herself would take part in the carnage. But she hoped that it wouldn’t come to that. For first, she had a message to deliver.

For order’s sake, I hope whoever is responsible for this is sensible. Aozora activated the communicator, broadcasting a live transmission to Sartinaynia- making sure she was speaking a language they would understand. “I am Aozora Chiyumi, Supreme Overlady of All Reality, ruler of Kyoki Chudoku. I come here with no intent to hide and no intent to allow this nation to succumb to chaos and despair. I know what you are. I know you exist. I know this, user of the arcane, for certain. You have one chance to respond to this message, to submit yourself to examination so we can rest assured with the knowledge that you will not damage reality or bring unbearable devastation to the world. Over a hundred million people have lost their lives to such a fate. There will be no more losses of this nature if I can help it. If you do not submit, we will deploy our forces. We have faced far worse than you can ever imagine, and no amount of mental trickery will delay my efforts. I’ve given you chance, be grateful for that. Do us all a favour and don’t waste it.” With that, Aozora disabled the communicator.

Now we wait, and hope they will, for once, come quickly and without trying to kill us. Bit if they don’t...we must push onwards. For the sake of all reality...

Aozora waited for an answer. For minutes on end, the Supreme Overlady of All Reality stood still, hoping that for once, her enemy would be sensible. Finally, she let out a sigh. I don’t know why I expected anything else. She reached for her personal communicator. “All forces, commence deployment. The time has come for order to reign.” With that, she journeyed towards one of the landing craft.

Aozora could feel small splashes of ocean spray on her cloak as she stepped aboard one of the craft. Soldiers around her stared at her, both intimidating and amazed at her presence. The craft began to move forward. Amphibious armoured personnel carriers were in every direction. Above, Aozora watched helicopter gunshots fly towards the shoreline, soon overtaken by the first squadron of fighter jets. The invasion force wasn’t enormous. But if we’re right...it will be enough. Our forces are veterans of the Nightmare. We will overcome this enemy, and the next if we must.. for that is my duty. My responsibility. And I shall falter.

At last, the boats made landfall. Vehicles drove onward, soldiers ready to face enemy soldiers in any direction. Aircraft would go on ahead to perform reconaissance and deploy deploy bombs if they sighted appropriate targets. Missile ships waited behind them, ready to bombard hostile positions if needed. Veteran soldiers, many of them scarred- self-inflicted or otherwise. Aozora stepped across the sand of this foreign land, soldiers landing behind her, Chudokurens moving onward into the forests. Sartinaynia...a land of chaos. I’m not here for that, though. I’m here to prevent catastrophe. Let’s hope resistance isn’t as heavy as it was during the Nightmare. Is that even possible? I don’t know. I don’t think so. Whatever the case...we will prevail. I will ensure it.

Aozora continued to lead her forces through the forest. Boots stamped on leaf litter, the whir of helicopter rotors fading in the distance as helicopter transports and gunships moved beneath the clouds. So far, there had not been any sign of enemy forces. Every time leaves rustled, it was a bird or rodent or just the gentle if growing wind. The trees were everywhere, but so somewhat scattered, leaving enough open space for not just their APCs, but what Akuma main battle tanks they had brought as well. The tanks carried scratched surfaces, most of them having not been repainted since the Nightmare, an eclectic mix of urban and forests camouflage present amongst the vehicles. This was good terrain for an ambush, and they all knew it. Soldiers flanked the sides, trying to find any traps or mines that may have been set. Nothing. There was nothing. No-one. Not a single soul standing in their way. It was...unsettling.

We should have run into someone by now. No nation is this poorly defended. We even announced we were coming, where are the troops? The ambushes? The bombing runs, the artillery fire? Where is anything? What the heck is going on!? The aircraft sent to perform recon had all confirmed reports that there was effectively nothing between them and the city itself. They hadn’t even reported any kind of significant anti-air fire. Something very bizarre was going on here.

Is this a trick? Some kind of mental manipulation? Is my enemy trying to make us feel secure? It won’t work. I’ve seen what Tengoku did. I know these tricks. I’m not falling for it. We’re pressing onward. If they come for us, we will notice, and we will fire. Maybe they’re trying to stretch our supply line? No, they would’ve attacked by now if they’d planned that. Some kind of arcane superweapon? I bet it’s an arcane superweapon. They have to have something planned to stop us! She turned to the soldier beside her, a young man with five shūkei marks on his arm, holding a standard issue SB-09 assault rifle. “Soldier.” He abruptly turned to face her, clearly anxious. “How do you feel right now?”

“In all honesty, my Overlady? Paranoid...where is the enemy...” I’m not the only one. Aozora gave a quick nod, stopped. The trees ended ahead of them. There was a road, and not far along it...buildings. Structures. And further beyond those, larger structures. A city. Meridan? Had they made it all the way to Meridan without encountering a single hostile? What madness is this? Is this an illusion? Aozora conjured her scythe. Surely something is up here. If anyone launches a trap...I’ll be ready for them. She grabbed her personal communicator as her force assembled. Another group was gathering on the other side of the road.

“Attention all units. We’ve arrived at Meridan. This is our target, don’t expect low resistance. Be ready for anything they can grow at us. They have something up their sleeve. They have to. But we’re ready for it. Helicopters, deploy troops. I want snipers atop every building you can get to. Gunships, provide escort. I want fighters circling in the air for defence as well, ready to bomb at a moment’s notice. Our armour will advance first, serving as a shield for infantry. Some forces will remain behind to defend the rocket artillery. We have limited numbers, so let’s be careful about this. On my mark. Three!” What have they planned? “Two!” Is this a trap? “One!” Can we get out in time to avoid their main force, wherever it is? “GO! FOR TYRANNY!”

Aozora ran with the infantry, main battle tanks pushing forward to take the brunt of the initial fire. Armoured personnel carriers- each carrying a squad of veteran infantry- took up position behind the heavy armour, waiting for the right moment to unleash their forces. Ganseihiro fighter jets soared above, circling in the air like vultures waiting to strike. Helicopters advanced towards the city, deploying squads on rooftops and giving snipers the perfect perches. Behind the trails of dust and marked asphalt left in the wake of tank treads, Aozora and her infantry pushed onward, using whatever cover they could find to progress closer and closer to the city centre. It’s not much further...how are we this close already? By now, the Chudokurens had reached the fully urban portion of Meridan.

Aozora turned a corner, an Akuma tank turret scanning ahead. At last, the enemy had been sighted. Their defensive position was clearly makeshift and hastily put together. Another Akuma turned down an intersection, also pointing it’s gun at the hostile targets. A tank. An enemy tank was right before them. Aozora took cover behind one of the buildings. But to her surprise, there was no fire. The enemy had not yet attacked. What the...why haven’t they fired? The Akuma readied it’s gun, but Aozora gave a hand signal, shouting over the top of its rumbling engine. “Hold fire! I want to try something!” The red-cloaked woman- somehow not yet bloodstained- rapidly clambered into the tank, neither side yet willing to shoot. She activated the tank’s external communication unit, and began to speak in English.

“Soldiers of Sartinaynia! I am Aozora Chiyumi, Supreme Overlady of All Reality, absolute ruler of Kyoki Chudoku. I offer you one last chance. I’m not here to cause chaos, or to destroy your nation, or even to kill you. I’m only after a single target, or group of targets. I am not your enemy. I am your saviour from manipulation you cannot even perceive, let alone believe. My forces have this city surrounded. We are superior in number! We are superior in technology! And we are superior in willpower! Because I don’t seek your demise, I give you a single chance to save us all a lot of trouble, and surrender here and now. If you do not take this opportunity, only death awaits you. Answer me immediately, or we will assume you’ve chosen to resist.” Why am I even trying this? I gave them this choice. But...no. They didn’t fire. Either this is a very poorly laid trap, or they know they’re doomed. They aren’t my target. My goal is to prevent destruction, not cause it. They won’t take this chance. But I’ll try. One last time. One last attempt at some kind of mercy. And if they inevitably refuse like I’m sure these idiots will, we blast them to oblivion regardless.

Aozora waited inside of the Akuma. She wasn’t expecting to wait for long. Either the enemy would fire, or she would if they didn’t hurry up. Just a bit longer. I’ll give them just a bit longer and if they don’t say anything, they’re dead. With little else to do besides just sitting there, she turned to one of the soldiers operating the tank. Before she could say anything, the woman spoke. “My Overlady, it is an honour to have here, but...do you think they’ll really surrender?”

“No.” she replied instantly. “I doubt they will. I’m giving them one last chance to see reason, now that there’s no hope left for them to resist without a massacre. But they’re taking their time. Get ready to fire. I’m not going to let them just stall us. It’s unforyuante, but nobody ever surrenders until the last-“

She saw something she’d never actually expected on the screen before her. Someone was climbing out of the enemy tank, leaving his sidearm on his own tank. It can’t be. No. This is impossible. Another illusion? No, no. It’s not. It’s...they’re actually surrendering? I’d better make sure this isn’t just a saboteur...it could be a trap...but...they might actually...surrender? She stared at the woman she’d just been talking to, who just gave her an expression of confusion. “My Overlady...should we open fire?” Aozora shook her head. I’ll deal with this myself. She made her out up the ladder and pushed open the hatch, clambering atop her vehicle. Standing below her was a soldier of Sartinaynian origin. The man introduced himself as part of a city guard, captain by the sounds of it. He surrendered his forces, on the condition that their lives were spared, as were those of the civilians.

Aozora was about to answer, but heard a ping from her communicator. She grabbed the device, holding it to her ear while staring down the captain. “My Overlady! The enemy have dropped their weapons. Their tanks are offline. What kind of trap is this?” So they’ve all given up? All of the enemies we’ve encountered, already? This is too perfect. There had to be some trickery going on. Some deception. Some plan to defeat us. There just has to be! This never happens!

She spoke into the communicator. “The enemy has surrendered. Accept their capture. They know they have no chance against us. Once the enemy is captured and secured, I want remaining available forces to surround the city centre and search for any potential escape routes from the area. Bunker openings, oversized sewer systems, anything. And I want what few arcane specialists we have to be ready to take readings. In addition..the momnef the prisoners start causing any kind of trouble...be wary about any potential traps. We’re taking a risk on this. I hope it’ll be worth it.” With that, she disabled the communicator and turned to face her enemy. My soldiers...yeah, they heard surrender calls once. From Tengoku. An enemy that only ever made these comments to lure us into a trap. An enemy that would never give up no matter much pain or death you put them through. And now? Our enemy surrenders straight away? If it is a trap...we can still just kill them. They don’t have the manpower to overcome us...do they?

She scanned the captain with her eyes. There was a sense of fear and desperation in his own. He’s afraid. Because he’s knows that I can massacre his forces if I have to. If I want to. Or is he afraid I’ll find out about their trap, if they have one? “Captain. Thank you for making the right choice. So long as your soldiers submit to capture and behave themselves, there is no need to harm them or any civilians. However, I want you to know this. The moment they cause problems, the second they attempt an attack or spring a trap, we will have no choice but to execute every enemy we encounter. I hope that is understood.” With that, she entered her tank once more. The vehicle drove onward towards Meridan Centre. It was...concerning, to know that they enemy could be anywhere, in any building, waiting to attack. On the other hand, given what she’d seen...could they take on even a single Akuma with their equipment?

At last, Aozora arrived at her destination. A pair of Zen’ei had gathered before the centre, carrying arcane detectors. Stealth was not exactly a major part of this operation, so they were perfectly capable of using the machines openly. Chudokuren forces had the building surrounded, with small squads seeking out any potential escape routes. Whoever was responsible for this, Aozora wasn’t going to let them get away without a fight. First, they’d examine the immediate area and block off any escape routes. Several soldiers were examining the plaza area, seeking out any entry or exit points. The Zen’ei had already taken some readings by the looks of it. One of them turned to Aozora. “Readings are minute, but they’re definitely there.” Good. We’re getting closer. It’s possible they’re in the building.

The doors were forced open, and two squads rushed inside, taking cover and preparing in case of enemy fire. None came. Then the two Zen’ei entered, followed by Aozora herself. They really do seem to have surrendered... “Take readings, now. Soldiers, look in every room you find. They will not escape us.” The soldiers went to perform their duty. This is dangerous...if they have a trap, now would be a good time for it...but...do they seriously have nothing? The Zen’ei began taking readings. Aozora took one detector for herself. As she stepped forward, they began to grow in intensity. They’re here all right. But where? The Chudokurens continued to walk through the room. As they reached the area that she estimated was about the centre of the complex, the readings had spiked, and as she stepped further way, they fell. But...are they above us? Below us? Wait a second...of course. Of course. I know this trick. Underground bunker. I bet that’s where they are. Some reinforced bunker right below here.

She grabbed her communicator once again, adjusting the frequency to reach the appropriate squads. “Soldiers. I need demolitions inside, now. We’re bunker busting.” If I’m wrong, we’re just going to blow a giant hole in the floor. If I’m right, we get to achieve our aim. Several troops entered. Aozora used her scythe to point at floor’s centre, and gave a nod. The soldiers began deploying several remote-detonated charges. I hope this is enough, or I’m going to have to scythe through whatever’s left. Everyone stood back. Soldiers from elsewhere in the building reported back, and immediately rushed to a safe distance. When everyone was outside of the blast radius, Aozora gave the order. “Detonate.” A defeating explosion reduced part of the floor to rubble, small embers burning beside the debris. The troops quickly stamped out any fires, before examming the hope they had created.

Beneath the floor, there was indeed some kind of reinforced material. The explosion had breached through a portion of it. That’s a bunker all right. Should we drop a grenade in there? No. If our target or targets really are down there, I want them alive if possible. I’d like to get some examination done. “Zen’ei! With me. We’re going in first to clear up any traps the enemy might have for us. Be prepared. Even if the rest of Sartinaynia has surrendered, I doubt an arcane enemy will give up without a fight. Let’s not count on that rarity here. Everyone else, secure the vicinity and make sure any escape routes you find are blocked off.” This is the part that makes most anxious...the end. All that walking, all that fighting- well ok, not so much today, but still. It’s this part where I’m under the most strain. But there’s no way around it. It’s time to see my enemy face to face. Aozora leapt through the breach, her two Zen’ei climbing down behind her, one of the holding an arcane detector and the other now wielding a carbine. Aozora held her scythe, ready to strike them moment she needed to. The Zen’ei turned a flashlight on his rifle on, providing light as they stepped forward, hearing the echo of their own footsteps.

We’re almost there. All we have to do is secure the target or targets, gah, I still don’t know how many there are...but when we’ve captured them, our mission here is complete. Let’s just hope their resistance isn’t too heavy...

Aozora stepped forward. Her footsteps echoed throughout the passageway. She could hear the last few rocks and pieces of rubble fall to the ground behind her, light from above stretching out to illuminate a small area of the bunker complex. Ahead, the path was lit by only a Zen’ei’s flashlight and dim emergency lighting which cast a red glow upon the entire complex. “Soldier. Set the arcane detector to audio. I don’t care about stealth, the explosion already gave us away. I want to know exactly where our target is.” The dull repetitive thud of footsteps soon gained an added melody- the arcane detector creating static like a Geiger counter, the noise growing in intensity as the trio moved further through the complex. Signs of decay were everywhere, rust forming on some of the walls and symbols half blocked out after what had to be years of no maintanence. This wasn’t just an emergency bunker complex- it was one that hadn’t been used in any official capacity for a long time.

The red became black. There was nought but darkness now, a single flashlight lighting the path ahead. What light had once penetrated their breach no longer reached them. Aozora held out her left hand, forcing a purple ember to erupt from it. The light it gave off wasn’t much, but it was far superior to nothing. Darkness. Someone’s down here for certain. I’ll bet they’ve set a trap, too. We have to be careful. More footsteps, more thuds, static always in the background, slowly building as they marched ever deeper into the complex. Aozora looked at the path head, seeing the roof curve downwards. A staircase. Ominous. If someone’s down there...no. If someone’s down there, I’ll slay them if I must. No trap’s going to hold me back. Aozora gave a hand gesture, the Zen’ei with a rifle taking point in front of her. Slowly, the group descended. Every step seemed to make the darkness worse, the static louder, that feeling of paranoia more overwhelming. There was nobody waiting to ambush them at the stair’s end, only more corridors, more empty blackness pierced only by a cone bright white and an aura of blazing purple.

Judging from the readings, they can’t be much further. We’re almost- ^{_{Miss Aozora Chiyumi, Supreme Overlady of Kyoki Chudoku why are you here?}} Aozora froze. That voice wasn’t her own. It wasn’t a halluincation of the traitor, nor one of those whispers of the twisted monster that haunted her in her nightmares. It was a voice she did not recognise, one that emulated yet was not identical to her own natural thoughts. ^{_{Why have you come to our peaceful little nation by force despite your people being treated with the utmost respect?}} The Supreme Overlady of All Reality gripped her scythe, readying for battle. That was the voice of her enemy. An illusion? Maybe. Whatever it was, she wasn’t going to show any sign of fear. Yet in her thoughts, a modicum of rage could not be held back.

Respect? Respect? Aozora’s thoughts were directed at this accursed voice. I don’t see violating their minds as a sign of respect. I know what you are. I gave you a chance to submit to examination. You’re a wielder of the arcane. And you are a threat to reality. I know what you’ve done. I’ve put things together. You forced psychological trauma onto my forces, right as they were about to discover your presence. Have you ever faced war, whoever you are? If you have...forget it. Forget any semblance of normal conflict. What we endured was nothing less than a living nightmare. We have control of the nation. Your forces have forsaken you. You have nothing. Nothing but your mental trickery. But I’ve dealt with your kind before. And I know what you did, even before we came here. This city is empty. You have mental manipulation powers. If they can work on my Kensaku Team, they can work on random civilians going about their business. This entire country is ordered in that way, isn’t it? Direct democracy? No. That’s far too chaotic to survive. That’s just what they believe. In reality, it’s rule by whatever you decide to make them think. You’re like Her, but instead of ruling with absolute certainty, you cower in a bunker. There’s one thing your little tricks aren’t going to help you with- me. You may resist. You will fail. Submit now, save yourself the agony of my blade.

Aozora stepped forward. The next room was a large chamber, more open than the corridors they’d walked through. A flashlight was pointed firmly at a figure sitting within, her legs crossed. Her hair was longer than Aozora thought possible, her attire seemingly rather civilian. The Zen’ei pointed his rifle, the arcane detector’s noise reaching incredible volume. The device was shut off. They’d found their target. Aozora pointed her scythe at the woman. She’s just...sitting there? What kind of trap does she have set... There didn’t seem to be any explosives in the area, not that she could see with her purple light source. Maybe she’ll make this easy, like the soldiers above. But if she doesn’t...I’m ready for her. There could well be more like her waiting for us...

“I am Aozora Chiyumi, Supreme Overlady of All Reality. Submit to examination immediately, or you will suffer for your misguided decision.”

Aozora felt that voice again, emanating from within her mind yet so very clearly originating from another. ^{_{The captain did his work exactly the way I had hoped. By surrendering, he ensured that you would not murder every single one of our people, and that is what I placed into his mind, the will to surrender.}} There was a pause in that mental message as Aozora’s mind processed the reality of the situation. ^{_{The moment you set your foot on Sartinaynia, I knew my fate. Do not mistake my powers for some abomination of your past, for I only intend to keep my people from harm. I will not surrender so easily, miss Chiyumi.}} Moments later, the woman before the group spoke. Her voice was calm, almost tranquil, but showed quite clearly the weariness of age. “I am Monica.” So that’s the name of our enemy. “And I will not submit to your examination.”

In that instant, the woman disappeared.

And in that instant, Aozora realised exactly what was happening. She leapt backwards, escaping the line of fire, but the Zen’ei were not so lucky. While they wore considerable body armour, they were not able to resist point blank shots when caught so out of position. Each of them fell to the ground, one of them trying to hold back their writhing, the other reaching for their fallen rifle but unable to grasp the weapon. Monica- the true one- pointed her weapon at Aozora. “I despise having to hurt or cause death, but you leave me no choice than to defend myself.” She ran off, leaving Aozora to examine the wounded for a moment. Not fatal. There wasn’t time to delay any longer- her communicator was unlikely to work inside the bunker complex, and she wasn’t going to let her enemy get away. I should’ve known she’d do this. The Supreme Overlady of All Reality sprinted after Monica. No. Wait. Trap.

As she turned the corner, she conjured a magical barrier in front of her. There was no flash, but the sound of her firearm was unmistakable. Aozora’s barrier blocked the incoming shots. However, she couldn’t keep it up forever. She needed light, some way to see. For that, she conjured a blast of arcane fire, violet flames lighting the path ahead. While they burned, they would drain her energy, but they did her no harm and would further entrap her enemy. But it’s too late. Where the heck is she...wait...I have an idea...

“Your illusions won’t save you. If you know your fate, give in. Save yourself the agony I can bring forth when somebody tests my patience. You’re surrounded! You know that! There is no escape.” A plan...I’m not just going to hunt her down. There are other options. Yes...this is...no! It’s too...no...it’s...it’s...it’s sadistic. It’s...worth trying. I’m not like Her. I do this for order. For the sake of reality. For order! She kept her expression blank, but inside, she could feel her mind arguing with itself. Ever since the Nightmare, she’d struggled with it. The knowledge of how twisted she could become. By now, her steps were slow, cautious. She scanned the area, around her, releasing small sparks of arcane fire to light the way, hoping she would have the energy to dispatch her opponent when she finally found her. I could do it. I could make that threat. I could demand her surrender in exchange for the lives of everyone above...she’d have to accept. But...no. Her illusions are too difficult. Her manipulation...I don’t know how powerful it is. No, no. If it could affect us, she’d have used it before now. Except...it’s too risky. Besides...I don’t want to turn this into a massacre. There’s no point in it...I’m only after her...so I will fight her, not those who have already given in.

Aozora sighed. She has to make this difficult...would I do this, if I knew I was doomed either way? She sighed. Yes. I would, without hesitation. I’d fight to the end. She still hadn’t found Monica. She didn’t know if the woman could even hear her. But she could communicate with her thoughts, and so, she tried to send another mental message to her enemy. Hide and seek, is it? How long will you prolong your suffering? She didn’t make any direct threats. All they would achieve at this point was giving Monica even more motivation to fight back. Aozora continued walking through the abandoned bunker, searching every corner she could fine, starting to feel strain from the fire she’d created. No. My endurance will be enough. She has no better defences against me than running and hiding. But there’s no way out. Sooner or later, I will find her. And when I do...there will no little distractions this time.

Aozora continued to walk through the bunker complex. Every step carried her further into unknown territory, further into darkness pierced only by purple light. At this stage, Aozora had decided to simply retain the flame she had burning in her hand and not disperse any additional fire to conserve energy. The light was enough to see, but not very far. This place is a labyrinth...where is she? ^{_{I already know how this going to end, my dear Aozora Chiyumi. And you will have to work for it.}} She’s trying to keep this up. She’s going to keep doing this for as long as she can...well, let’s see how long she can keep it up when I sever her legs from her body... Aozora’s frustration was growing. She knew Monica could not escape, and had only a pistol. But that’s all it took to kill. One good pistol shot could take down a target. She had to be careful.

Aozora created another barrier. She was close. She had to be. Sure enough, two more shots were sent her way, but neither penetrated her defences. There you are. Aozora increased her speed, but slowed as she approached the junction itself. Gah...which way did she go? This way...let’s try this way... She kept her barrier in front of her, stepping forward slowly. She didn’t know the layout of the complex, but if she used her fire strategically, it would be possible to trap Monica even further, give her nowhere to run. She gripped her scythe tighter. Monica had to be-

“AAARGGH!” A sharp pain surged in her side, red liquid flowing onto her cloak. Instantly she turned around, relocating the barrier as four more shots were rendered harmless. Had she gone another way? No, she...did she have stealth? Invisibility? If she had illusions...one of the most obvious illusions to perform was hiding oneself. She clenched her first, stuffing out the small purple light. Have it your way. If you want to hide...I’ll have to burn through everything after all. She gathered fire in her hand, before unleashing it in a blast of magic, sent flying through the corridor. She did want the accursed woman alive, but she wasn’t going to let herself die in that process. Her rage was growing, simmering beneath the surface but always sending embers flying into her thoughts, her feelings. That gave her more power when it came to magic, but she couldn’t afford to waste much more of it. Her reserves were too low for her liking as it was. Stamina never was my strength...

When she turned the next corridor, she sent a smaller orb of arcane energy between the walls, the sphere erupting into violet flames as it impacted the ground. “You can’t stay hidden forever. You’re just making this more painful for yourself every passing moment.” Aozora continued her search, but now, whenever she found a junction or a turn, she would use her arcane power to create a small projectile. It was somewhat of a drain on her, but it ensured that she would eventually make impact, and that she could see where she was going. Not much longer...not much further...sooner or later, she will make a mistake. And when she does...she will pay for it..

Aozora knew she couldn’t keep this up forever. Each time she changed directions, she was forced to expend more magical energy. Her reserves were running short, but she continued regardless. My enemy can’t run forever. I will catch up to her. I will find her, and I will bring her what she deserves for making this so difficult. She could still feel the pain from her past wound, small trickles of blood still pouring from the gap between flesh. It would not stop her. It would not slow her. She had faced abominations, monsters, traitors and twisted distortions of her own being. She was not going to succumb to mere illusions. No shadow she can throw at me could hope to match the darkness of my past reality. No nightmare she could conjure would be worse than that which I have faced. But I myself am such a nightmare to her. That is my role, now, isn’t it? The monster that hunts down real monsters. All she has is darkness and bullets. I’ve faced worse before. I’ll face worse again.

She turned at the next junction, casting her projectile as had become usual. It was exhausting, combined with the sprinting and the barriers she’d conjured, but it was necessary. And this time, it revealed more than mere blackness. There was a figure between the shadows. Monica. Aozora conjured her barier, just in time to block a barrage of bullets. She stepped forward. Was this an illusion? She’s firing. She’s not hiding. Is it a trap? In the dimming purple light, she could barely make out the face of her adversary. But what she sensed there was desperation. She wasn’t running, she wasn’t hiding. Had she resigned to her fate at last? Aozora increased her pace as more bullets were sent flying her way. Many more and the barrier would collapse. But this wasn’t war. She had only one target. This had to be real. Illusory bullets wouldn’t cause this drain, would they? No. I’ve found her. Good... Adrenaline flooded her and she sprinted forward, scythe in hand. She didn’t need bright lighting to make out her victim’s silhouette. The woman struggled to reload, and in that moment, Aozora called upon her magic once again, this time surging forward with as much speed as she could muster. As she approached, she reoriented her scythe. It’s blade now curved away from Monica, but the handle was horizontal. Aozora raised her weapon as she reached her target, slamming the scythe’s handle into her enemy’s neck and sending her flying further into the chamber. In this brief reprieve, Aozora conjured another flame ahead of her, this one causing her greater exhaustion than usual. This was not just an ember to light her way. This was a barrier, not of magic, but of violet fire. There was no escape.

Monica aimed at her again. There was an empty click. Out of shots. Aozora stepped closer, taking in air with deep breathes to satiate her burning lungs, feeling the aching of her joints return as the physical strain revealed its toll upon her. In that moment, there was a flash, and Aozora felt a surge of pain in her left hip. She forced herself not to let out even a whisper of pain, instead staring at Monica. With her the reach of her scythe, Aozora used her blade to knock aside the coward’s weapon, and then pointed the edge directly at Monica’s pounding heart.

Aozora placed her left palm on her first wound. She forced arcane fire upon herself, cauterising the bleed before it grew any worse. She did the same to her second injury, all the while keeping her purple eyes locked on her fallen foe, their expression revealing only contempt. “Found you.” Aozora then gripped the wrist of her enemy. After having spent so long in pursuit, it was satisfying to have at last caught Monica. Her efforts were futile. She could delay me, but she could never hope to hold me back. Aozora allowed her pent-up rage a small release. Purple fire burned in her hand, and thus began to scorch Monica’s skin where she’d grasped it. She tried not to focus on any sounds of pain. This wasn’t sadism, she reminded herself of that. She wasn’t falling to that desire. Nor was this just twisted stress relief, from which she’d once taken such immense delight. This was, quite simply, the best way she had to keep her prisoner restrained.

“You have lost, Monica. I could kill you right here, right now. I could have your entire nation masscared if I so desired.” She smiled, twisting that expression as much as she could. “I could torment you. For every second you made me endure this pathetic pursuit, I could give you another scar for life.” I have that power. I have that potential. But I’m not here to kill you... Aozora released her smile. There was no facade. Upon her face was now the grim expression of a weary warrior, one who struggled yet persevered for every day of their existence with a kind of melancholy yet overwhelming determination. “But I won’t. You will be taken for examination. You abilities will be determined, your danger assessed, and your every secret made known to us, for sake of the security of all reality.” She gripped Monica’s arm tightly, adding no more burns but almost crushing it with her grasp, accentuating the pain. “Any attempt at escape will result in worse than death. And not just for you.” For a moment, knowing her enemy was likely too injured to attempt any such act, Aozora stepped way, retrieving the weapon she’d been shot with. She stood in front of Monica once more, holding the pistol in her hand. There were no rounds left inside from what she could tell. But she didn’t intend to shoot. Instead, she simply smacked her enemy in the face with her own weapon, for the closest semblance of ironic justice she could muster under the circumstances.

How much pain does she deserve? I’ve given her enough for now. When more is revealed...I’ll know how much more suffering is necessary for her. This’ll do. It’s not much. But I don’t want it to be. I don’t want to risk slipping back into that...that addiction. That was what it had been. An addiction. An endless craving for carnage that could never truly be satisfied, an undying hunger and unyielding bloodthirst that had once threatened to consume her. She’d seen the end result of that. I will not become like Her. Aozora stored away the pistol, and picked up her communicator. She didn’t know if it would even work this far down in the bunker, but it was worth a try. “This is Aozora. I need medics down here, and a full sweep just to make sure there aren’t any others. The target has been captured.” She disabled the communicator, before staring Monica in the eye. “You’re very lucky to even be alive. You know that, right? You’re very lucky that, right now, I seek examination rather than execution. Don’t even try to test that luck. You know how it will end.”

The prisoner was no longer screaming, no longer even keeping her eyes open. Had it been too much for her? Perhaps. Well, if she’s unconscious, that makes the next part of this easier. Aozora didn’t yet move, at first taking a few minutes just to make sure Monica really was unconscious and not just plotting a desperate escape. She released the purple fire nearby, reducing it to a few embers. A swift scythe strike would deal with the woman if she tried to move away. I’m not letting her get out of here, not after all that effort. How old is she? How long has she been around here? I don’t know the specifics, but I can find them out, soon enough. Well, my mission is achieved. Probably about time to...

She froze at that thought. If she left now, there was no doubt she had achieved her goal. Unless there were other arcane users around, but she suspected that there weren’t. But if she were to depart...Monica’s manipulation was the only thing holding the nation together as a direct democracy. She would be fine. The moment they left, the nation would collapse. Maybe not instantly. Maybe not quickly. But inevitably. It’ll happen. If we go now, they’ll descend into anarchy even further than they already have. Aozora gave the matter some consideration. As Supreme Overlady of All Reality, I have one main objective beyond self-preservation: to ensure order. I wasn’t expecting things to go this way. I was expecting heavier resistance. I was expecting a different kind of enemy. But reality had become otherwise. How many deaths have we had this entire war? None. As far as I know, not a single soldier nor civilian died. My Zen’ei were wounded, I was wounded, Monica was made to pay for that. But no death. As far as wars go, this is about as clean as it could get. Normally, during invasion...it’s far easier to depart immediately after the threat has been dealt with. Otherwise, chaos lingers. Traitors emerge. Partisans and rebels cause problems, too many for any occupation to be worth it. But here...anarchy will ensue if we do nothing. And we have already won. Even if they try, I don’t think they can resist us.

An idea formed in her mind. It was risky. But...what better choice was there? Leaving the place in chaos? Throwing her captive back into her former position after all that effort, solely to keep the place stable? That was stupid. No, there was an alternative. It has dangers. Many dangers. But it would ensure that order prevailed. If we just...took the nation...we could ensure order. And gradually, we could make use of its infrastructure. All those devastated areas back home...imagine it. We could transfer some of the people who were left with pretty much nothing after the war, along with others we deem suitable, and allow them a chance at living life without constant reminders of destruction. It’s beneficial for us. It’s beneficial for them. Order is ensured. We can’t afford to spend much on this effort. If the place is ever threatened by war...defending it will be a nightmare on our own. Gah, we’d have land borders to worry about, too. But even so...I think it’s worth it. The hardest parts of this were going to be dealing with any local resistance, and dealing with the international community. Warmonger. Invader. Yeah, they’ll call me that, some of them. I don’t think saying “so we dealt with the girl using magic to manipulate everything but now we have to take control to ensure order” is going to be very convincing to people who are fortunate enough to not have to deal with this business. But it’s the best option. If someone tries to attack...we have some defences. We have allies. And if for whatever reason things get really bad, it’s not like we don’t have the choice to depart if we must. I’ll have to be careful about it. But...I’ve made my choice.

At this stage, a flashlight illuminated the chamber. Aozora held her scythe with a firm grip, ready to dispatch any adversary if it become necessary. But it wouldn’t be. It was a group of soldiers, including two combat medics. “My Overlady,” said one, offering salute, “the Zen’ei have already been extracted. They’ll make it just fine.” They got shot...not mortally, but still...I had no choice but to leave them there to pursue my target. Aozora gestured to the woman lying unconscious on the floor.

“This is our target. Her name is Monica, and her abilities relate to illusion and mental manipulation. Restrain her appropriately. The war is over, but we’re not leaving just yet. We have to ensure that chaos doesn’t engulf this place, without its manipulator to keep things operating according to her will.” A group of soldiers lifted Monica up, and the group walked through the bunker complex. What had once been eerie now felt less like a labyrinth of potential death and utter darkness, and more like a bunker complex that really needed maintainence sooner or later. Soon enough, the Chudokurens climbed back up the breach, ascending via grappling hook.

When Aozora reached the surface, everything was far too bright. All that time in darkness had forced her eyes to adjust to far dimmer light. Soldiers pointed their guns at the prisoner. Aozora examined her forces. Nobody attempted to deliver a report of more arcane threats. It seemed that aspect of this situation had ended with Monica’s fall. Aozora turned to the soldiers gathered. All these soldiers, warriors of the most horrible war I’ve ever witnessed, took part in...how in the world did we transition from that brutality to this...this...to them, it’s bascially just a really long walk. The Supreme Overlady of All Reality grabbed her communicator. “Inform all forces that we have transitioned from a retrieval mission to a longer stay. For the sake of order, I have a new strategy in place. We will ensure the stability of this realm now that our target has been restrained.” She disabled her communicator and turned to the nearest soldier. “Do we have control over communications here?”

He saluted, then nodded. “Affirmative. However, for some reason, all we can find are radio channels. Evidence suggests that there are no modern communications systems in place.” Seriously? Just radios? What kind of country only has radios? How far behind is this place...gah. It’ll do.

“Good. Prepare every frequency we have access to for a transmission.” Here comes the hard part...

————————————————————————

Soldiers assembled in rows. Prisoners had been taken by numerous squads, the entire military of Sartinaynia having long resigned to its fate. The nation has effectively surrendered. There was no brutality. Not a gun fired, not a tank destroyed, not a crater on the ground. Nobody had yet resisted, and thus, nobody had yet been executed. There was an atmosphere of anticipation amongst the Chudokurens. Soon, they had gathered some radios or communicators, allowing the captives to listen to the next stage of the operation- or rather, the beginning of an entirely new mission.

“People of Sartinaynia!” A woman’s voice came in English, shouting with a combination of of exhaustion and determination. “I am Aozora Chiyumi, Supreme Overlady of All Reality. You may consider me as an outsider, or even an invader. But unlike your past leadership, I will not conceal reality. Leadership, you ask? What leadership? This nation was a direct democracy, was it not? That is incorrect. For any choices you may have made were not just your own! They were warped by the will of a manipulator, a woman whom we have since captured. Through the use of sorcery, she was able to influence affairs to suit her desires. You had no true choice. That freedom was only an illusion. And I seek to replace such illusions with truth. The manipulator has been eliminated. This realm has been freed from that sinister influence. But a question remains.”

Her voice become darker at this point, grim in tone. “What will happen here? When our forces depart, what will occur? I can tell you now. Violence. Chaos. Anarchy. Direct democracy, without that secret guidance, will result only in self-destruction. I did not come here as an invader. I came here to remove a threat to reality, and succeeded. But upon the completion of my mission, I came to realise the harsh reality of our situation. To leave is to incite chaos, and I seek order, not anarchy! The choice has been made. To preserve order, to prevent destruction, and for the benefit of all involved...I declare the integration of Sartinaynia into the Supreme Ultimate Country of Kyoki Chudoku.”

It was not a grand declaration. It was not a reluctant compromise. Aozora had spoken those words as if they were, quite simply, the truth. “There will be changes. There will be adjustments necessary. I understand that for many of you, this will be quite a challenge. However! It is necessary. I urge all of this nation to avoid resistance. We will punish such resistance, but do not fear. We have witnessed far too much devastation to desire the desolation of another entire country. The people of this nation, even its soldiers, are not enemies. They are victims of manipulation and perpetual deceit. I will show you all the reality of existence. There are several things you must be aware of. Firstly, this world is warlike. It is miraculous that your nation has not already been subjugated by some imperialist power seeking colonies to exploit. Secondly, magic is real. Not all forms of it, but the arcane has many manifestations. Finally, democracy is self-destructive. Kyoki Chudoku is a tyranny for this reason. And as this territory is now part of Kyoki Chudoku, tyranny reigns here as well. It will take some time to adjust. But I am certain you are capable of it.”

Her voice become more certain, more energetic. “In time, you will appreciate the stability of order and the power of authority. I do not ask you to enjoy this. I do not ask you to appreciate this immediately. I do not ask you to give your lives for no purpose. All I desire is order. Therefore, all I ask of you today is compliance. Our operation resulted in the loss of not a single life thus far. I’d like to keep it that way for both sides. Change will be gradual. But there will be change. To you, this area is Sartinaynia. To us, this area is now Satina District. In time, there will be no distinction between you and us. We will each be united. We will each be proponents of order and defenders against chaos. I warn you once more not to test my patience. We will respond to treachery as harshly as we desire. But I am not without mercy for those undeserving of suffering. Should you do nothing to wrong us, we will cause you no suffering. We will bring upon this realm a new era of order, stability and strength!”

With that, the message ended.

In the world’s most bloodless war, led by the Supreme Overlady of All Reality herself, Kyoki Chudoku had begun the annexation of Sartinaynia in the name of order and stability.

“I never expected to do this. But it became necessary. Due to the presence of an arcane adversary in Sartinaynia, a Chudokuren force was deployed to the area. During the expedition, it was realised that if we were to simply depart after the conclusion of hostilities- if I can even call them that, considering a grand total of one person, and the target at that, actually fought us- chaos would engulf the nation. As a result, the decision was made to begin the integration of the nation into Kyoki Chudoku. The ultimate reason for this is to prevent the place from descending into anarchy with the removal of a magical manipulator. Within Kyoki Chudoku, the area is now known as Satina District. We hope to maintain stability and ensure order in the area. I understand that there may be some concerns, but I hope it is in turn understood that we are simply doing the most we can to mitigate the potential damage.”

-Aozora Chiyumi, Supreme Overlady of All Reality