Chapter 411 - A Secret but Crucial Battle
Preparing my equipment before setting out, I find myself lost in thought.
The pain in my left eye, hidden by the eye patch, has been a constant reminder. I’ve grown somewhat accustomed to the pain and the side effects of the curse, but it’s getting progressively worse, mocking my naive hope that it might just go away.
The eye patch’s enchantment hasn’t weakened. I’ve heard that the human body can grow resistant to the effects of medication, and this might be a similar phenomenon. Or it could be something else entirely. Regardless, the pain is significant, though not so severe that it warrants a full-blown outburst. I’ll just have to endure it.
Time to switch gears. Alright, here we go.
“But still, Gulgandi. Poor bastards, even as the enemy.”
After days of relentless minor harassments, the Gulgandi agents must be on the brink of developing ulcers from stress.
The repeated troubles might not be random. They could very well sense a deliberate intent. Anyone in their shoes would. However, there’s no sign of the Berliza authorities or the Anastasia Union being behind it. They’re fully occupied with countermeasures against the Undead and the Empire, which any operative worth their salt would know.
If the two main enemies of Gulgandi are focused elsewhere, who could be behind these petty harassments?
Surely not a coincidence. No way.
Maybe someone commissioned by the authorities?
But who in their right mind would take on such minor operations, and how could they pull it off without being caught by professional operatives?
And who has the capability to carry out such operations repeatedly without revealing their true identity?
These harassments, if occurring simultaneously and frequently, couldn’t be the work of an individual. It had to be an organization.
Considering the level of sophisticated intelligence required to track Gulgandi’s movements and the ability to execute harassment, the only organization that comes to mind is the Phantom Thief Guild.
According to the surveillance reports, the Gulgandi agents are in a state of chaos.
Our Kikyo Society is known for its brute force, so it’s unlikely that we’d be suspected of such petty operations. Especially to anyone outside of Exembra, that’s the case.
If the harassment escalated to assaults on their members or the destruction of their hideouts, the Kikyo Society would quickly be the prime suspect.
If the Gulgandi realized they couldn’t win a direct confrontation, they might abandon their current hideouts and go completely underground. This would render the Berliza Intelligence Department’s gathered information useless and could even force the elite reinforcements en route by ship to postpone their mission for better preparation. That would mean a failure of the Intelligence Department’s orders.
Our main goal is to eliminate the enemy elite. Any additional work, while providing experience and a way to pass the time, also serves the purpose of quelling the sparks of war between nations.
The Kikyo Society isn’t in the business of profiting from war. We don’t seek to gain from the chaos of conflict. Instead, we focus on our usual day-to-day operations.
A full-scale war is unpredictable and risky. Leaders might change their minds and steer in unexpected directions. For an organization like ours, deeply involved with power, unnecessary tension is undesirable.
The best state of affairs is a moderate level of tension, with occasional minor skirmishes here and there.
Every nation has its share of spies, and that’s fine with us. However, Berliza’s current situation is precarious. There’s already tension with the Medek-Legisamo Empire, the threat of the Undead, and the Church’s covert activities. We certainly don’t need threats from another continent.
We want to weaken the troublemakers.
Petty harassments, while seemingly insignificant, are meaningful because they can inflict damage without being noticed.
The Kikyo Society isn’t just about brute force. We engage in more subtle schemes too. We have to, to maintain our position among the Three Great Families of Exembra.
“In the end, they’re underestimating us.”
The Gulgandi know that the Kikyo Society is in Beltoria. After all, we’re in charge of the Anastasia Union’s Leader’s sister. They can’t possibly be unaware of our presence or our connections. It’s not arrogance, just a fact.
However, they don’t fully understand our methods or the extent of our power. They haven’t grasped the depth of our connections and influence. Their intelligence isn’t as thorough as we thought.
Thus, they’re clueless about who’s behind the harassment and have mistakenly suspected the Phantom Thief Guild.
The Phantom Thief Guild is notoriously neutral. They can be anyone’s ally and anyone’s enemy.
The Intelligence Department has observed no connection between Gulgandi and the Phantom Thief Guild in Berliza, making it a plausible suspect. If this leads to a pointless conflict between them, it would be a win for Berliza’s authorities.
Despite the inconvenience, the Gulgandi are indeed competent. They’ve been busy dealing with the petty harassments while preparing to receive the elite reinforcements from their home country. Their efforts, though exhausting, are impressive. However, the difference in intelligence between a local organization and outsiders is stark.
To effectively counteract espionage, one must leverage local intelligence networks. The Berliza Intelligence Department is too skilled, and the Gulgandi likely haven’t managed to establish a strong local presence.
Now, the Intelligence Department has gained a powerful tool—the Kikyo Society. Even if we’re not always available, we’re a significant asset in critical moments.
“Hmm, looking good.”
Checking my reflection in the mirror, I’ve not only been carrying out the harassment operations but have also acquired new equipment.
Given my newfound connection with the shadowy top of the Magic Item Guild Headquarters, it was a perfect time to leverage the opportunity.
Among the useful items, the communication device is particularly important. The upgrade of the earring-shaped communicator is a significant improvement.
Previously, the communication channels were set such that everyone could hear every message, which was cumbersome. Now, we can communicate individually or in groups, and the range has been significantly extended. This eliminates the need for multiple relay operators, saving personnel and enhancing efficiency.
I wish I had bought it sooner, but technology, market availability, and regulations evolve gradually, and timing is key. This was the perfect moment.
Initially, I considered buying the board-shaped communicator from the Bluecoats, but I waited for the advanced version, which was rumored to be released soon.
Thanks to my deeper connection with the Magic Item Guild Headquarters, I was able to plan future acquisitions and even request customizations, leading to the purchase of the new model.
After putting on my black overcoat and various pieces of equipment, I finish with a black beret, completing my preparations.
Meeting my junior at the dorm and heading out of the Academy, the team splits up. I’ll go with Valeria, the Head of Presidential Security. Layla and a few members of the Intelligence Bureau will take the ship, while Harriet, Roberta, and Violante stay behind with my little sister.
At this point, minimal security for my sister’s safety is necessary. Harriet will suffice, and Roberta and Violante will serve as reserves in case of emergencies.
This is it. We’re heading out to eliminate our enemies.
“This is Gradena. Can you hear me, Yukari?”
With Valeria in the passenger seat, we’re driving along the coast at dusk when a voice comes through the earpiece.
“...This is Shinogami. The connection is excellent. This new model is impressive; the sound is much clearer.”
The magical reception is confined to a very narrow range, inaudible to others even if they’re right next to you. This advanced feature ensures clear communication.
“Yeah, being able to communicate individually is a big plus. With everyone listening in, spontaneous ideas get stifled.”
“True. But I’m a bit worried about wasting magic power on idle chatter. And what about the enemy’s movements?”
“They’ve split up. We’ll observe for a while, but if we have a chance, we’ll take them out.”
The target, about thirty elite Gulgandi agents, arrived at the port on schedule this afternoon.
We can’t attack them in broad daylight while they’re among civilians, so we planned to strike at night. The existing Gulgandi surveillance will be joined by Layla’s team, who will also seize the ship. With additional personnel needed for the new arrivals, Gradena’s team will take over the surveillance.
“They split up? That’s fine if it’s just for food or entertainment, but it could become problematic if they leave Beltoria.
Alright, I’ll leave it to your judgment.”
A minor disturbance is acceptable, but our top priority is eliminating the elite Gulgandi.
The reason for Gradena’s surveillance includes the possibility of taking them out if the opportunity arises.
“If we do, we’ll strike with a surprise attack and finish them quickly. They don’t seem like ordinary foes, though. We need to stay vigilant.”
“I agree. They don’t seem likely to let their guard down after just arriving. Could it be a trap?”
“Maybe. But they’ve split up, which could be an advantage if we can deal with them individually.”
I’m concerned about their motives. If they immediately start with their operations, we need to stop them.
If they cause trouble in various locations, we’ll be held responsible for failing to prevent it.
I thought they would act more discreetly. They might be tougher than expected.
“For you to say that...”
“After half a day of surveillance, it’s clear. While I wouldn’t say we’ll definitely fail, there’s a real possibility they’re a step ahead.”
The secure communication line allows for such cautious statements.
The enemy’s evaluation is high enough to warrant concern.
“I understand. They’re elites, and not just in terms of strength, right?”
“Exactly. There’s an unsettling aura about them. Especially the leader. I can usually gauge the power of someone with magical abilities or weapons, but this one is completely unreadable.”
“A particularly strong individual. What’s his current status?”
“He hasn’t moved from the hideout where he first arrived. This gives us a chance to neutralize his subordinates first.”
Underestimating them could lead to trouble. Both sides know this. We must give the enemy the highest possible respect.
“...Understood. We’ll go all out. I’ll inform the others.”
“Thanks. I’ll leave it to you.”
Ending the communication, I glance at my junior, who seems unaffected. Valeria didn’t hear Gradena’s voice, but she’s likely aware of the gravity of the situation from my words alone. Her usual calm demeanor is unshaken, and she even looks excited about the challenge.
As expected of my junior and a Kikyo Society executive.
Everyone in our organization will likely react similarly to the news of the enemy’s threat. I have no complaints, but the fact that even Gradena found this threat significant...
As the supreme commander, I need to instill even more determination and focus in everyone. This isn’t just another routine confrontation.
I quickly decide on the necessary adjustments and pull the vehicle to a stop.
Phew... Alright, let’s go.
“This is Shinogami, broadcasting to all members. Repeat, this is Shinogami, broadcasting to all members.”
I switch the communication channel to a Kikyo Society member-only open line, adopting a more solemn tone than usual to gather everyone’s attention.
I pause to focus everyone’s attention before continuing.
“—Revised enemy assessment. Based on individual and collective capabilities, we acknowledge the Gulgandi elite as formidable opponents. No frivolity; we will eliminate them with full force from the start. Gradena’s team will strike when necessary. Layla’s team will join Gradena after securing the ship. Roberta and Violante will join me. I repeat, I recognize the enemy as a significant threat. No room for complacency or mercy. This is a covert operation; make no mistake about that. Over.”
This should tighten everyone’s focus. I feel my own resolve strengthen as well.
I never intended to be careless, but I didn’t plan to go all out from the start.
We need to expose the enemy’s methods and gather additional information while ensuring victory. Any less would be an underestimation.
I will reassess and crush them decisively from the start.
“Onee-sama, you look excited.”
“Hehe, yes. I am. The stronger the enemy, the higher the praise we’ll earn when we succeed. There are many watching us.”
“Indeed, let’s show them what we’re made of.”
“But this is a covert operation; we can’t be too flashy.”
While the Berliza Intelligence Department focuses on the Undead, they won’t ignore other activities. There will be observers, and major combat groups like the Anastasia Union and various guilds will take notice if they learn of this battle.
I’ve felt many eyes on me since this morning, and Gradena has experienced the same.
In this den of iniquity, where the Kikyo Society is considered untouchable, let them witness our true strength.
This chapter focused on preparations, but the next one will mark the beginning of a different kind of battle from the petty harassments. I’ll be sure to depict the enemy’s formidable boss and our ruthless elimination of the opposition. Stay tuned!