Tokyo Ravens Volume 14 Chapter 3

Grey dawn rose from the eastern skies, gradually brightening up the entire sky. A tall tower standing in a distance basking in the morning sun, shining with sliver white radiance.

The Reien[1] welcomes dawn while being covered in thick morning fog.

This is a tranquil world belonging to the dead. Once in a while one will be able to hear chirping sounds from anxious birds, plants in slumber are awakening gradually as well.

It's been some time since he visited, nothing about this place has changed, it gives people a misconception that they had just visited the day before. Time seem to stop at the point of the first visit, making a turn at the same junction, just like before, only realising he was walking in the wrong direction after some time, smiling bitterly while making his way back to the junction, walking towards another direction.

Then, Ohtomo Jin arrived before her grave.

"… How are you? Sensei…"

Knock, his cane and artificial limb knocked lightly, Ohtomo steadily make way towards the grave.

That is the teacher when he was studying in Onmyou Academy, Wakamiya Eri's grave.

"I have mention this before, right? It wasn't long ago that I'm like sensei being a lecturer in Onmyou Academy, moreover, it wasn't long ago that I heard your name from one of the students in the class that I'm tutoring."

Ohtomo looks calm, he then started chatting with his past mentor.

"Sensei, you have been gone for so long, yet, to hear your name from someone else— to be exact, hearing it from my own student, gave me a fright, to be honest, I am ashamed to see you, I just wanted to see you for the last time…"

Finishing his words, Ohtomo kneel before the grave, putting his cane aside.

He took out and lit the incense, placing it on the holder, he then prayed silently with both his palms together.

At this point, he unknowingly started recalling about the past— the events when he was still a student, he wasn't anyone important during that time, yet he thought he was far more mature than anyone else. With regards to his techniques, he held strong confidence in himself, thinking that the things he knows were deeper than any other people. Even though he wasn't foolish enough to mention this around people, but to use this as the source of pride and responsibility is truly naïve and silly.

With this kind of Ohtomo, there were two friends that was always beside him.

Kogure Zenjirou and Saotome Ryou.

Kogure's great intelligence crushed Ohtomo's conceit, his inborn sense of justice and honesty brought a brand-new perspective for Ohtomo. Even his carelessness, casual and happy go lucky shortcomings, all became a reason to train Ohtomo himself as a support from the side to be careful and alert in everything.

As for Saotome, she made him realise that there isn't a mountain which is the tallest. He will realise that he had cultivated patience that allows people to unreasonably make fun of him, and feeling this kind of relationship to be carefree, is also due to her. More importantly, they made him understand that one shouldn't judge someone based on their appearance, views or demeanour on the surface, it is necessary to reach the same standard as the other party in order to have actual thoughtfulness and farsightedness.

However, these were reflections that he made after things happened.

The him at that time thought these two people by his side is a matter of course, never once considered the meaning or value behind it.

Naturally and normally.

They never even once thought about the future, everyone was still young and inexperienced at that time, he himself is, Kogure is, at least Saotome is no exception.

"… These things don't seem happened too long ago eh…"

Opening his eyes, Ohtomo smiled bitterly in front of his mentor.

After graduating from Onmyou Academy, the three of them joined Onmyou Agency at the same time. They kept contact with Wakamiya sensei after graduation, the [Three Crows of 36th Batch] seems to be students that have a special place in sensei's heart. From then on, they should have a senior and junior relationship in the society— that should be the case, but in the end, they maintained a teacher and students relationship.

The long winded Wakamiya is often the source of Ohtomo's headaches, however, Kogure is different, in his heart, he wasn't happy that he was still being treated as a student. He still remembered how he and Saotome met up in secret to discuss about this, fanning the flames from the side. After that an angry Kogure scolded them— but the two of them continued to be busybodies trying to patch them up. Wakamiya was kept in the dark and she continued happily watching the three of them.

Little did she expect that she was the reason that the three of them broke off.

Thinking back calmly, the three of them already had an opportunity to split. Saotome was researching about Yakou to the point of becoming strange, Kogure was so busy with his job as an exorcist, Ohtomo on the other hand was in the Mystical Investigation Department, busy dealing with the dark side of Onmyou Agency. Without knowing, the three of them weren't as close as before, to the point that they did not send a message or made a call to each other for a few days or even a few weeks. In other words, Wakamiya's existence became the sole factor that continue maintain the relationship between the three.

Then, Wakamiya died.

When Wakamiya died, Saotome disappeared without anyone knowing, Kogure closed off his heart, Ohtomo became alone in the end.

He now understands, the him at that time— only he was stuck at that point of time… No, as a matter of fact, he unknowingly stopped moving forward.

Saotome went to the dark side for her goals, Kogure kept on exorcising spiritual disasters in order to fulfil his duty, Ohtomo, in order to find out what happened, went into the static time alone, losing a leg in the end and left the Mystical Investigation Department.

He originally thought that this incident was over, but it was unknown if it is fortunate or unfortunate, that there is a continuation of it.

Until he noticed it, things had already developed into the current state. About being ashamed to face sensei, is Ohtomo's most sincere and honest words.

"And, I'm sorry. Kogure that guy seemed to have slipped up eh… but the other party did not kill him straightaway, perhaps there is still a glimmer of hope. Although I have no right to ask such a thing of you, but if that fool is still alive, please protect him. Another thing, Suzu that fellow… no, there is no need to be concerned about her, she won't die so easily eh…"

A dry, lonely and bitter laugh slipped out of his lips, Ohtomo looked at the grave.

He did not mention anything about himself, because he knows that he does not have the right to do so, also, he does not wish to ask for forgiveness from the other party for the crimes that he is about to commit.

The summer two years ago, the contract established between the demon and himself.

Next is to resolve everything before the deadline of the contract.

"… The me right now is older than sensei, yet I still couldn't become a lecturer like sensei eh. However, I do have a bunch of exceptional students eh, after all, every sensei's students weren't good students."

Finally, Ohtomo smiled, he picked up his cane and stood up.

"— I'm leaving eh."

After finish speaking, he left the Reien.

Knock knock, the morning Reien reverberates with a dry voice.

Leaving Wakamiya's grave, after turning through the previous junction, "… So?" a formless voice appeared beside Ohtomo.

"So, just like that you have put down everything?"

"… You really like to joke around, whether or not my heart still has any worries, it will all in the end depend on the conclusion today eh."

He replied his Shikigami this way— the demon that is possessing himself, while walking towards the exit of the Reien. As he walked, he adjusted his mentality.

Changing the past memories into the desperate reality now.

Changing from the carefree teacher into the experienced previous Mystical Investigator.

Changing Ohtomo Jin into [Shadow], swapping out his entire body of cells, train of thought and even the aura that is surrounding his body.

Today is the day of showdown, defeat is not allowed.

"Can this be really go smoothly?"

As he listened to the laugh, Ohtomo replied very calmly.

"Sure, because this is where I'm extremely well versed."

☆

A small sized female entered the empty Reien quietly, her hands holding a small bouquet of flowers. That is white Chrysanthemum, the flower that is used for worship and sacrifices.

Perhaps due to not visiting for a long time, she kept looking left and right, seemingly trying to confirm the location. Then, she finally found the grave that she is looking for, once she is in front of the grave, she was shock frozen, stopping in her tracks.

The incense holder in front of the grave is holding incense.

The incense is left with less than half its length, but the incense is still burning with a thin smoke.

She immediately turned over, "… Jin." Calling out this name.

Of course, there was no reply. She held the bouquet in front of her chest, for a while she attentively listened to the surroundings, trying to pick up knocking sounds of someone walking.

Then, she let out a breath, shaking her head, facing the grave once again. She knelt down in front of the grave, putting her palms together after offering the bouquet of flowers, lowering her head in silence.

She kept her head lowered, far more longer than the previous visitor.

Morning came as usual on the fated day.

During last night, after one hour into the brand-new day, Natsume and the others decided to rest after confirming there isn't any significant changes. The day of showdown has arrived, they need to rest, it was not just about recovering their strength, it was also to recover their magic powers as well. Especially Natsume having a very unstable aura, she need to adjust her body to the best condition as possible.

They woke up on the next day 9am of the 3rd of March.

There seems to be a lot of Spiritual Disasters happening before dawn, however there isn't any signs of a large-scale ritual being done. They requested Suisen to wake them up immediately if there are any movements. It seems like the time of the ritual will be the same as what Amami predicted, around sunset.

While Natsume and the rest were resting, Kobayashi continued periodically contacting them, he seems to not have a good night sleep. [The Onmyou Monthly Magazine] editorial department continued to be in an uproar as if they hit a beehive— actually they destroyed the hive, it seems to have developed into a very serious problem that has affected the entire publishing company including the editorial department. Because of this, Kobayashi's actions were restricted, however, even if he could take action, they do not have anything that requires his help.

Up to this point, the government and Onmyou Agency did not intrude, Wakamiya did not send in information as well.

That exposition has spread widely in the internet, finally there are news that are willing to report on this, publishing on the media. However, it was as what Natsume and the rest had worried earlier, it is only now then the society start to have highly comprehensive discussion on this.

"This should be enough to make Naota make his move, damn it, that guy…"

In spite Touji being frustrated, there wasn't any news from Naota.

Naota has explained before, to let the organisation— especially the administrative organisation to take action, it is a must to go through a set of procedures. If it is still not [in the midst of taking action], surely, they wouldn't be able to by sunset.

There is another bad news, that is after the night two days ago, Harutora once again attacked one of the exorcist bureau branches.

The location under attack this time is Meguro branch, similar previous time, there wasn't many casualties, however the timing of this attack is [after] Amami announced the exposition, leaving perhaps, the worst impression, on everyone. After hearing Harutora appeared once again, Natsume and the rest can't help and let out a scream.

"I can't believe this! What is Harutora trying to pull here!"

These words of Suzuka reflected everybody's thoughts.

By doing this, not just the society, internally, the Onmyou Agency surely would have an even worse impression. To the Agency Members that wavered after watching Amami announcing the exposition, Harutora's actions is equivalent to pitting himself as an enemy against them, especially those exorcist that were attacked in the exorcist bureau would surely see Harutora as an enemy.

It's just…

"… The movements of Exorcist Bureau aren't normal, something feels off."

Receiving news from various sources, the person who speak of this impression is Amami. Different from Natsume and the rest, he only took a short nap.

"What do you mean?" Natsume and the rest asking him for an explanation.

"There is a group of people given gag order, to be restricting the flow of information internally in the organisation at this point of time, can be seen as there is some situation happening internally, and it is something that is disadvantageous to the higher-ups."

Perhaps that can be used to break the opponent's defences— or a desperate struggle.

Amami wants everyone to have their meal and wants Natsume to continue burning the Soul-forging Incense, while he continues busy gathering more information.

However—

☆

"We should rush into Onmyou Agency! With Amami as the leader, it would be best we bring other media together as well! Things have developed into such a state, we must quickly take action."

Touji, with a strict expression, closed in on Amami who is sitting in a wheelchair, Suzuka nods her head behind Touji, agreeing to his idea as well.

"I agree as well— Besides, now is not the time to be waiting, wasting time waiting. If we do not take our chances, surely wouldn't be able to catch up to [Tensou Chifu Ritual]." She said angrily.

The frustration of the two of them were all written on their faces, the reason lies on the news that was broadcasted in the morning.

With regards to the exposition by [Monthly Onmyou Magazine], Onmyou Agency and Satake Masumi Member of Parliament released an official joint statement.

As for the content— Needless to say— Completely denied that exposition article. Onmyou Agency did not exclude taking necessary legal action against [Onmyou Monthly Magazine], on the other hand, they are suspecting there are terrorists behind this exposition using spells to intrude, this will be part of the investigation. However, due to the fact that today is the forewarned terrorist attack, stopping the terrorist attack will take priority for now— something like that.

This kind of statement is the same as completely denying the advocate of Natsume and the rest.

Moreover, as Onmyou Agency released their statement, they also released footages of an unknown individual attacking Exorcist Bureau Branches continuously for the past two nights. Even though they did not announce directly, but according to witnesses' accounts, the suspect could be the very person that will launch the forewarned terrorist attack Tsuchimikado Harutora.

"Amami-san, I agree to Touji and Suzuka's suggestion as well. If you appear directly, there will be many people in Onmyou Agency willing to listen to you!"

The most cautious person among the entire group, Tenma, seemed to have lost his patience as well, but he can't be blamed. At the rate, Harutora will be completely treated as a terrorist, even though it is a fact that he attacked the branches, it was just nice that it could be exploited and used by the enemy.

Of course, Natsume had the same thoughts as well.

The truth about the exposition got completely denied, her best childhood friend being branded as a criminal, it's impossible that she wouldn't be angry. Her feeling of unwillingness is perhaps the strongest among all of them.

However, now is not the time to let anger and unwillingness to dictate their course of action, the situation in front of them doesn't allow them to fail. Of course, Touji, Suzuka and Tenma had this kind of understanding as well, but as the deadline approaches, their anxious feelings caused them to unable to continue waiting, only wanting to quickly take action.

Besides, it was already past noon.

-- But, even if Amami-san come forward right now, proceed to Onmyou Agency…

"Calm down, if we are to appear in this kind of situation, isn't it the same as putting the cat near the goldfish bowl?"

Amami anticipated Natsume's thoughts, stopping the others.

However, it has been about an hour since he used this way of explaining to make them stand down.

"Now is not the time to be concern with superficial work!"

"In fact, the other party is also not concerned about being superficial, if we just go out there to expose without thinking, the other party would just capture us without listening. Even if such methods would seem rather unnatural, easily causing suspicion from people, but as long as they have us captured, there will be no people left to stop them afterwards."

"We can oppose them without letting them doing that. In front of the building during board daylight, I trust that they wouldn't openly send out Yase Doji. If the opponents are Mystical Investigators or Exorcists, we wouldn't get captured easily."

"Stop talking nonsense, Touji. Do you want to attack those officials that we are trying to gain trust from and wanting them to come our side? Besides, the other party do not only have Yase Doji as their combat capability, the building is also the enemy's base, it is extremely simple to capture us."

Amami patiently stopped the frustrated Suzuka and Touji, in fact, every word Amami said were very reasonable.

-- In the end, there isn't any chance of winning with just us.

Not just Natsume, Touji and Suzuka understands about this as well, that's why they used roundabout methods, trying to make contact with Kogure, requesting the publisher to put up the exposition article.

-- We can't win with only us… however…

"Just waiting helplessly here is also not a good idea, right?"

Tenma spoke with a heavy tone, his stiff face has gone pale. Amami had nothing to refute for a moment, because what Tenma said was right.

A heavily depressing mood covered the entire living room, in order to escape that kind of mood, Natsume turned her sights to the balcony outside.

The clear skies outside the condominium was especially irony, needless to say the city itself was in high alert. Traffic got heavily controlled, there were only a few vehicles moving around. She may have overthought about it, but outside seems to be quieter than usual, maybe it was the calm before the storm.

The sunlight that was shining through the balcony was already past noon, the angle begins to slant. As the slant angle increases, it fell onto the horizon ultimately, no one could stop the movement of time.

-- Time's up.

As if a thin wire tied around the throat, the fear of the deadline approaching is as if a sharp knife being placed onto one's chest. This sharp blade is going to cut the skin next, cut the flesh of the body, reaching the organs, burying deep inside the body.

To think that [time] dependent circumstances could be something so [painful], this was the first time Natsume have learnt about it.

At this moment, Kyouko and Suisen entered the living room, everyone turned their attention towards them at the same time, Amami was no exception, in fact, his reaction was the fastest among all of them.

Needless for Kyouko to make her report, her gloomy expression already say things weren't going well.

"I'm sorry Amami-san, in the end I still did not succeed."

"… Is that so… I should be the one apologising to you, I kept forcing you with my unreasonable requests."

Amami's tone was calm, but the tone doesn't contain the usual tension.

What Amami has requested Kyouko to read was the stars of the [Twelve Divine Generals]. He guessed from the slight unusual situation at Exorcist Bureau from the previous night— The situation may be related to one of the [Twelve Divine Generals]. Even if the [Twelve Divine Generals] are important officials of Onmyou Agency, their hearts would surely waver after watching that video, causing something to happen within Exorcist Bureau yesterday, the possibility of this is very high.

The [Twelve Divine Generals] that still belong to the Exorcist Bureau are Miyachi, Shigeoka, Yuge, Kagami, as well as the Kadei twin sisters, total of six people. However, Miyachi and Kurahashi are of the same team, so in reality there is five people. The person with the highest probability that would cause a problem among these people is Kagami, but he had already known about Kurahashi's plot from Amami and Touji, it is impossible for him to waver only now after watching Amami's video or reading the exposition article.

If that's the case, the person with the highest possibility that will take action from the remaining…

"Is Yuge."

This was the conclusion Amami arrived at.

On the other hand, this conclusion made him had a bad premonition. [Before] Yuge takes action, they were of course very welcome that she would hold a suspicious attitude towards the upper echelons. But the situation has happened— it means that Yuge had already took action, as to what kind of action would a suspicious Yuge take, surely it would be to look for her own direct superior Miyachi to discuss about it.

"Perhaps due to the target of exposition being the chief only, causing an opposite effect in the end..."

Of course, this was just a baseless conjuncture, the only thing they could do was to believe these small unusual situations inside Exorcist Bureau, noises inside the organisation that were caused by the exposition— it would be best to develop suspicion among [Twelve Divine Generals], and with all their strength, request for their assistance.

However, this was really not an easy task.

Star reading is a relatively special talent, every [Diviner] uses different techniques. Kyouko needs to know the person's aura in depth in order to read their stars, to read a person she doesn't know well requires luck more than anything else. She has only met a few of [Twelve Divine Generals] that are remaining in Onmyou Agency, but none of them could be said is close to Kyouko.

"… There is really nothing we can do this time, if Kyouko's divination cannot be used, we surely do not have the time to slowly make contact with the party, convincing the other party to rush into Onmyou Agency together with us, this matter can only be handled by ourselves."

"Suzuka, calm down."

"The truth is in front of us, have I said anything wrong?"

Suzuka stopped hiding her inner frustration, Touji spoke in a tone that disregards any consequences…

"Amami-san, since things have come to this stage, let's just ask Kagami for assistance. That guy won't just do nothing, since things are as they are now, let's just ask him to join our side. Even if he doesn't agree straight away, as long as we suggest some sociable conditions—"

"… It is regrettable, I am unable to contact him."

"What?"

"To be honest, I tried to contact him a few times while all of you were resting, but there isn't any reply."

Amami revealed this with a heavy tone, Touji was speechless, he then turned back, "Damn." He helplessly cursed.

Everyone fell silent, avoid looking at each other, as if they really couldn't think of any more ideas.

Since things had come to this, "-- Kyouko, can I request of you to try reading the stars once more?" Natsume, who was silent before said this, everyone turned and looked at her.

Hearing Natsume's request, Kyouko's expression turned grim.

"I'm sorry Natsume-chan, I'm afraid any more divination would be…"

"I would like you to read the stars of Harutora and Ohtomo-sensei this time."

Kyouko jumped after hearing her words, the others couldn't help but look at each other.

Natsume continued to explain.

"They would surely take action today, it's just that the possibility for them to follow our directions to take action is very low, but it is possible for us to support them."

"B… But…"

"Wait a minute, Natsume. Even though I don't wish to say this, but Harutora and Ohtomo-sensei's actions most likely wouldn't take the reactions of the society into account, if they were to take action together, there will surely be people that question the authenticity of the exposition."

Tenma refuted for Kyouko, who had difficulty to say anything, "That's right." Natsume replied readily as well.

"I do agree there are such risks as well, but there is no chance of winning if we only rely on ourselves, it might be possible for things to go more smoothly if we are to compliment with their actions. Amami-san has said we have to [use reckless methods] in order to win this war, at least the methods of the both of them is unquestionably [reckless]."

Regardless of Harutora or Ohtomo, is going to defeat the enemy— Kurahashi and Souma as their final objective. Even if there is difficulty for them to work together, but there will surely be chances to support each other or to use each other. Since the two of them are sure to move, if it's possible before things begin— even it's just a little before— predict them, it would be the best.

"There are very powerful shikigamis at Harutora and Ohtomo-sensei's side, I understand that it will be very difficult to read their stars. I know that this is a ridiculous request, but if we can understand more about the situation—"

No, even if we are not clear about the overall [situation], it will be meaningful as long as we can confirm the [existence] of the two, everyone's worry would surely lessen as well.

They are not the only people fighting, just knowing this fact can bring them strength— and courage.

"I understand." Amami nodded, accepting her explanation. "However…" he turned to Kyouko, perhaps he was worried about Kyouko's condition after continuously star reading. Kyouko immediately felt his gaze, "It's alright." She replied him with a determined smile.

"I understand, I shall try now. But do not place your hopes too high, because it didn't succeed previously—" For the sake of assurance, Kyouko gave such a reminder to Natsume. "Kyouko-sama." Suisen, who was behind Kyouko, gently called out.

"How about star reading in front of everyone?"

"Eh, but…"

To specially stay in another room to star read, is for the sake of removing any distractions in the mind. Star reading is not just time consuming, the others must also allow their aura to stabilise during this period of time.

"Let's not talk about the [Twelve Divine Generals], those two have a very close relation with everyone here, right? I've heard from Miyo-sama, every star is interlinked with each other, perhaps being surround by everyone's stars while star reading, you will be able to find the stars of those two."

Suisen's steady tone seems to calm down the originally tensed mood in the room. "If that's the case…" Kyouko continued speaking, as if she had heard something similar from Miyo in the past.

Kyouko's [star reading] techniques were taught by Miyo, but there is a great difference between the methods they used.

Even so, "Alright, I shall try it out now." After she agreed, she went to take the Rikujinchokuban from the room. Next, she placed the Chokuban on to the table in the living room before kneel sitting in front of the Chokuban.

"Kyouko, what should we do?"

"It's alright to not do anything but let me first gather my focus."

Kyouko replied Tenma's question, letting her sights fall on to the Chokuban. Next, she gently placed her hand on the Chokuban, staring straight on the Chokuban. However, she isn't just looking at the Chokuban, it can be understood from the movements of her aura. The once stable aura started to shake, the movements were becoming bigger, as if dancing. As the aura danced, Kyouko slowly operated the Chokuban.

Using Chokuban for divination is fundamental of Onmyou Techniques, even though it isn't given much attention in the [General Style], but students of Onmyou Academy were mostly taught the basic knowledge of it.

Yet, the divination taught in the academy and the one Kyouko used is apparently different. Even though this is the first time [seeing] how Kyouko star read, the intriguing difference of the aura and the usage of first-class magic fully grabbed Natsume's attention, but this was only the beginning.

All of the sudden, Kyouko's aura spread out, as if a huge flower bloom from a bud, her aura then began to float.

Boom, as if there is a strong wind blowing in from somewhere, the moment where Natsume unknowingly opened her eyes wide, she saw Kyouko's body twitched greatly.

Everyone stood still, Suisen quickly supported her shoulders from the back. "Ha ah!" Kyouko cough out a huge breath, her breathing was rather hectic.

"Kyo, Kyoko?"

"Hey, Kyoko!"

Suzuka gasped, Tenma and Touji shouted in unison from the side.

Kyouko did not once looked at them.

"… Why…"

She muttered in a loss, shifting her body on to Suisen, looking at Natsume— She couldn't say a word due to her reaction, the frozen Natsume.

Then…

"… I, I was able to read the stars of Natsume-chan."

"Eh, me, really?"

She probably listened to Suisen's advice and started to read the stars of Natsume first. However, Natsume is now in a condition where she allowed Hokuto to possess her body, logically speaking, it should be very difficult to read her stars.

The people who felt disturbed wasn't Natsume alone, Amami who is sitting in the wheelchair, bend himself forward as well.

"Kyouko, how was it? How was Harutora and Ohtomo?"

"Sor, Sorry, I'm not sure as well… I, I was looking for Harutora's stars when I saw the stars of Natsume-chan."

"… Is this the one mentioned before, the interlinking between stars?"

"No, but perhaps I found it due to that…"

Kyouko's breathing gradually became normal, however her mind seems to be still in confusion, she couldn't understand what she had read as well.

It's just…

"The star of Natsume-chan is affected by the possession of the dragon, it is impossible to read… however, because we are always together, I still can feel its existence… b, but, what I just read wasn't that kind of situation, I… Natsume-chan seems to have another star…"

"I don't know, but surely…"

Kyouko spoke while observing Natsume, Natsume speechlessly looked back at Kyouko. Kyoko's sight once again looked through Natsume, through her body and shifting the focus on to somewhere else. Kyouko's aura rose, whirling around, Natsume felt the same intriguing feeling once more, as if there is wind blowing through her own body.

Kyouko was almost losing her consciousness.

"… That's right, just like that, Natsume-chan is waiting… always waiting…"

Finishing her words, Kyouko suddenly returned to normal.

"Eh? I, just now I…"

Kyouko couldn't help to cover her own mouth, "Aye aye." Amami bitterly smiled— he could only smile with bitterness, then, in order for himself to calm down, he clapped the fan on his hand.

"Not just Souma, even [The Kurahashi Princess] attained séance as well, the blood bonds between these famous households is indeed…"

"A, Amami-san, what happened to me?"

"There is no need to worry, Kyouko, you should stop thinking about it. Thinking about such things is just a waste of effort, besides, we won't be forcing you anymore."

"But with only these information, there is nothing we can do."

"It was just a try anyway, I am not doubting your star reading abilities, I do not think you have failed as well, it's just star reading [is this kind of technique]. Anyways you should rest now, understand?"

What Amami said this time is spot on, Kyouko looked at Natsume once more with her face filled with tears, but Natsume did not know how to react.

-- I have another star?

She had originally suggested this to encourage everyone, yet it ended up making everyone not knowing what kind of actions she should take due to her current condition, losing their direction. Of course, Natsume wasn't an exception, she thought of saying something, yet she can't think of anything.

However—

Just as everyone is at a loss, the wheels of destiny began to turn.

The turning of the wheels of destiny came about as vibrations, it was an incoming call, and it was Touji's mobile phone. He looked at the screen of the phone, his expression changed instantly.

He immediately picked up the call, "Father." he shouted.

Everybody's reaction was rather intense, everyone became attentive at the same time, fully focusing on Touji. That was surely a call from Naota, in other words, that was a call that would determine the destinies of Natsume and the others.

"What happened? What have you— Wh, What? Bring him over? Where to— Now? What in the world—"

Touji spoke on the phone with agitation, he then turned his head over and shouted… "Tenma! Switch on the TV now, switch to the news channel!" Tenma immediately switched on the laptop that was placed at the corner of the living room, everyone quickly rushed to Tenma's side.

Tenma operated the computer, one of the windows shows a television broadcast. Tenma switched the channels without stopping, then his hand stopped.

Natsume's heart jumped wildly.

The screen shows Onmyou Agency Building. Express news. Live broadcast. A big group of men in suits continuously entered the building, the bottom of the screens shows the news topic, the newscaster is currently reporting on this news.

"What is it?" Amami said, his tone filled with surprise and excitement. "A forced search by the public security? He actually… mobilised the public security in just two days!"

"Wh, What? Is this something so incredible?"

"Of course! The Onmyou Agency's actions can be stopped now… I understand now, I always think in the direction of the magic world, since there is an announcement on forewarning of the terrorist attack, the public security wouldn't just sit back and do nothing. However, to start a forced search all of the sudden… It is truly thankful!"

Amami watched the live broadcast in excitement while answering Suzuka's question. Amami's excitement spread across the room, the heartbeats of Natsume and the others increased as well.

"Father, this is—"

Touji asked through the phone, yet he felt something cut immediately, it seems like the call had been cut off.

Touji turned his head towards Amami.

"Amami-san, Naota wants me to bring you to Onmyou Agency—"

"Of course, we will go now, regardless how many subordinates the Chief has, he wouldn't dare to make a move in front of public security, we now can finally pin down the chief's lifeblood."

☆

"… Yes, in order to let the public security take action has costed some effort, wasted some time, luckily we made it in time."

"I really don't know how I should thank you."

"However, the other party seems to be quite prepared, whether the thanks are worth it or not will be determined in the next few hours."

In the back seat of the large vehicle, due to the traffic control in the city causing very little cars on the road, the vehicle Naota is travelling on makes its way to the Headquarters of the Independent Party.

The words about wasting a lot of effort in order to let the public security take action wasn't fake at all. Naota is only a Member of Parliament of the Opposition, even though he has a few strong connections, but it is undeniable that he used rather strong methods. After hearing what happened from Touji, Naota immediately targeted Satake and the New Defence Ministry— the close relationship between the defence ministers.

As to how to deal with First-Class Magics and the attitudes of the Onmyouji, the National Police Agency and the Defence Ministry are wrestling each other behind the scenes. Onmyou Agency gained independence from other ministries, basically is in the middle ground, the only exception is the National Police Department where they often require to work together on magical crimes and exorcising spiritual disasters. But after Satake appeared and the New People's Party gained political power, Onmyou Agency became close quickly with the Ministry of Defence, this has caused the National Police Department to be rather anxious.

As long as he starts from this aspect, he could make the public security take action through the National Police Department, Naota had this judgement. Of course, for this to come to fruition is also due to Naota's great abilities that comes from his long years of experience in politics.

As there isn't enough time, Naota has to work alone. If there are no results, other than having to resign from his secretary general position, in the worst case, he might be expelled from the party. He has decided to take his chances even if it's like this, it was after having discussed with her that he had make this decision.

In order to get her contact, compared to what he thought initially— it took way more effort than to make the public security take action. She was taken captive in the house of the seemingly evil person behind the scenes, to find out her actual situation is already very difficult, to get her contact privately while she was being captive was an even more tiresome job.

However, all these efforts were worth it.

"You have really startled me, Hall of Black Cat suddenly sent me a [notice of a new branch opening] gift box of sweets… and the box contains not just my favourite specialties, there is a mobile phone under the box as well, I immediately thought it was you."

The other end of the call came a sound of elegant laughter.

Actually, Naota rather like sweets, Hall of Black Cat is the shop that he frequents, only during special occasions he would order the favourite Japanese pastries specialties that was designed to provide for frequent visitors, which were also his favourites.

That was when he just became a Member of Parliament. There was a rumour that she only meets the Prime Minister or high-ranking officials only, it was fortunate that Naota had a chance to have a talk with her, the gift he brought that time was the Hall of Black Cat specialties. The mysterious important person of the magic world, one word from her would shake the entire political and financial world, was so happy about the specialties Naota brought her, afterwards, as long as he made a request, she would prioritise in meeting him.

To be honest, Naota's objective isn't her [Divination], but rather her insights towards the surroundings— her high accuracy and the correctness of her opinions and fairness has made him hold high admiration for her. After that, every time he met with serious issues, he would make his way to listen to her opinions. Naota would look for her once every few years to talk, but the relationship between the two of them has already been thirty years long, moreover, Hall of Black Cat had unknowingly become a secret code between the two of them, which was [height of a case].

"… To be frank, this issue is making me hesitant, because the Chief of Onmyou Agency isn't anyone, he is your son. To investigate his wrong doings— and it is fiendish crimes…"

"I am to blame for being a failure of a mother. However, with your intelligence, before I was in this state, you should have felt something was off, right?"

"It was only last night that I received the specialties, no matter how great your powers are, I'm afraid it would be too late for us to take action after we have discussed everything."

"… That would be correct."

It was like this since last time— perhaps it's because the two of them had known each other for a long time, every time he speaks with her, Naota had no way of keeping his own pace. Moreover, he never once got frustrated because of this, this perhaps had to do with her character. Including strategizing, the political world that is filled with various love and hatred, to contact her was not just to have an increased amount of opinions before making a decision, perhaps it holds a great meaning in terms of washing the surface of the heart.

"But, the most surprising of all is that I can't believe you are the father of the student, Touji, I'm such a failure of a [Diviner]."

Normally Touji absolutely wouldn't mention about Naota at all, even though he wasn't interested in the feelings of Touji towards him, but it's impossible for him not to feel it.

That kind of Touji had begged him, without any pretentious, without hesitation, and did not show an attitude that wishes to rely on others. He really likes that kind of attitude, so he is willing to provide his full support.

"Student Touji should be taking action together with my granddaughter now, they are very good friends with each other. Naotsan, I do not have any intention of interfering with your household matters, however please do help him this time, this is my personal request, it is not a request made from [Diviner of the Kurahashi Family] towards [Politician Naota]."

To think that there will be a day where she would request for his assistance like this, he wouldn't have imagined this during his younger days. Wrong, the him few days ago would have never imagined it as well.

He won't be able to repay the amount of favour he owed her this lifetime, however if it's Politician Naota Kouzou, he would sure disregard previous gratitude and resentments and still think that this is a right choice. But this is something personal, moreover, it's a request from his old friend, the situation is different once more.

"… How was his performance in the Academy?"

He unknowingly let his guard down, the her on the other end of the call was taken by surprise a little, didn't speak for a moment.

"He is a very reliable child, it's just that he always tries to carry everything on himself, but there is no need to worry now. There are some aspects of him that is very similar with you, but he has made more good friends than you."

Hearing the other parties teasing tone, Naota was reminded of her character, a slight bitter smile flashed passed his lips.

He then ended the call, turning his focus towards the impending battlefield.

"Hama, let's go."

"Understood, master."

Flying into the sky after removing the blue plastic cover, what was hidden under it was a large metal body that is similar to a heavy armoured vehicle Hummer H1. That is Tenma's mechanical-type shikigami, Hama. Next, Suzuka came out with a few simple style— transport-type [WT2 - Flying Gulls] created by Witchcraft Corps. The Flying Gulls doesn't seem affected by the vehicle that is over three-tonnes in weight. They pulled the Hummer up from the rooftop and place it in front of the condominium.

Suisen temporary released her entity form, Touji placed the folded wheelchair in the car boot. Tenma sat on the driver's seat, Amami sat on the co-driver's seat, everyone else sat behind. After everyone entered the vehicle, Hama revved its engine, raced through the streets. Originally, this large vehicle would have a hard time to manoeuvre in the city, however, due to the effects of traffic control, there are only a few vehicles now, it can increase its speed without consequence, racing towards the Onmyou Agency building.

"Faster, Four-eyes!"

"The one that is driving is Hama, not me!"

"Master, is there a need to not care about safety for now, and prioritise on getting to the destination first?"

"Wh, what do you mean?"

"… Let's do that, Tenma. Increase the speed to the point where we are still within the limits of not getting into an accident."

"Th, then, Hama, I will leave it to you!"

"Understood."

Hama increased speed immediately, everyone got thrown onto the back rest of their seats. Taking advantage of having few cars on the roads, Hama did not only change lanes without a care, it did not give any regards to traffic rules too, driving at high speed on the road. Tenma screamed in despair, "Oh god!" Kyouko turned pale, Suzuka cheered in joy, Natsume only concentrated on the front of the windshield.

It is uncertain how long has it been since she could travel on the streets without caring how others look at her. After that summer night two years ago, Natsume was either hiding her movements, or just desperately trying to escape. However, the situation now is different, Natsume is now for the sake of battle— for the sake of walking towards the future after getting victory, walking forward.

-- If I could… If I could stop this ritual of Takiko's now…

The wind direction will change, it will surely change. Once it turns into a magic battle, Takiko and the others are horrifying strong opponents, however since there is public security around, magic battle will surely be their last resort, moreover, if they really use this last resort, it would equivalent to proving Amami's exposition to be true. If that's the case, the other [Twelve Divine Generals] would sure fight alongside with them, Onmyou Agency would fight against Takiko and the others— fighting alongside with Natsume and the rest.

-- The things that are happening later on will determine the outcome of the battle.

Of course, Harutora and Ohtomo should have already seen the news on how the public security did the forced investigations, now, who will take action, when and during which point in time, how will Takiko and the rest react? Takiko and the rest had Akino on their side, there are also Yasuzumi, Takahiro and Chizuru, they must save them all.

-- Hopefully they are all safe…!

Perhaps she had enough sleep, Natsume's aura had stabilized. She held her fist as if praying, observing the front.

Then—

"Reporting master, there is a simple style flying towards us, I'm guessing it's [W1 Owl Eye], an observation technique from the Magic Investigation Department."

"Magic Investigation Department?"

"Hmph, they are really fast."

Amami nonchalantly looked up the sky while being beside a panicking Tenma. At the same time, the canvas behind was raised, "We have company!", Touji, who is sitting in the passenger seat behind, shouted in the vehicle, he too had seen the blue owl flying in the sky.

Suzuka cheerfully leaned her body forward from the backseat.

"Shoot it down?"

"What nonsense, that's the people that we are going over to convince them to join us now."

"But, it could perhaps be a shikigami from the Kurahashi side!"

After hearing Kyouko's opinion, "Amami-san." Natsume spoke towards the co-driver seat.

"Open the hood, this vehicle should already be an investigation target of the Magic Investigation Department, if we are going to Onmyou Agency openly, it will be best to let the other party know you are in this vehicle now."

"In fact, our actions now are as if we are [voluntary appearing in court for explanation], alright, let's do this, Tenma."

"O, Okay. Hama! Open the hood!"

"Understood, entering open hood mode." Hama replied immediately, the canvas hood of the vehicle started to flap as it opens up, leaving the hummer with two pillars with its interior fully exposed to the outside. Sunlight shines directly down into the car from above, the high speed swept great winds raging in the vehicle.

Amami unbuckled his seatbelt, using his arm as a support to make himself stand from the co-driver seat. His hair swayed with the wind, he smirked while staring towards the [Owl Eye] in the sky.

"Amami-san, this is a rare chance, you should wave at them with a smile on your face!"

"Shut up, Touji! You should carry on holing yourself up in the backseat quietly!"

The moment Amami turned his head towards the sky, [Owl Eye] movements seem to be erratic, rapidly changing to low altitude flight. Natsume observed the movements of the shikigami, with her hand placed on the talisman box.

After confirming the other party is indeed Amami in close range, [Owl Eye] returned back to its original altitude, slowing down while following behind the hummer.

"…Th, they did not attack us."

Facing Tenma who was holding on to the steering wheel while looking at him, "Keh." Amami returned back to the co-driver seat. "It looks like we are quite popular!"

Looking over, other than the shikigami from the start, another [Owl Eye] appeared, another two appeared not long after that, making it total of four [Owl Eye] following the hummer in the sky, and the number kept increasing.

"Is there any meaning in sending out so many observation types to follow one vehicle?"

"No, this shows how chaotic onsite really is."

Observation types not only does not have attack abilities, it does not have communication abilities as well. As the name suggests, it is a special shikigami with enhanced observation capabilities, meant for observing enemies for information, in other words, if it's just to follow them, sending one will be sufficient to complete mission. Looking at the large amount of shikigami gathering here, it could be seen as the technique users are following the hummer based on their own individual judgements—proving that the commanding technique user system is not operating normally, the forced search by the public security has caused operations of the Onmyou Agency to be paralysed.

When the building comes into sight, the amount of [Owl Eye] that were flying above the Hummer increased to more than ten. The Hummer lead the large number of blue owls, rushed into the circular carpark in front of the building.

Even though she had seen it a few times in the television, but this is the first time Natsume is in such a close distance with the Onmyou Agency building. That supposing old building, yet it is vastly spectacular compared to her impression. Her comrades had a fierce battle in this building two years ago, she had already heard about the situation a few times, this time she finally get to step into the past battlefield as well.

"Eh?" Tenma, who is in the driver's seat, made a sound of surprised.

There were a few cars and vans stopped at the circular car way in front of the building, there were also police in helmets and shields locking down the main entrance of the building.

"The standby personnel were mobilised as well?" Amami said with a smile.

Even though forcing a search on a government organisation is something very serious, but in such a situation where there was only little time for preparation, moreover the other party is Onmyou Agency, making exceptions to many things is understandable. Onsite must be in chaos.

Looking at how the Hummer rushed in high speed, the police that placed Onmyou Agency on lockdown were shocked, "Stop!" They gave the order through a megaphone.

"Master?"

"Hama! Stop the vehicle!"

The large bodied Hummer did an emergency brake, causing it to skid sideways, a sharp screeching noise could be heard, skid marks could be seen on the asphalt road. Natsume and the rest quickly steadied themselves, looking towards the police force once more after the vehicle stopped.

After confirming the Hummer has stopped, the police in front of the building started to gather around them. Touji jumped off from the back seat, Natsume and the rest seems to reactively followed and jumped off their seats as well. "Do not move carelessly!" Amami warned. At the side of Hummer, Suisen appeared in her physical form, she took the wheelchair from Touji, she then went towards and opened the co-driver seat door.

The police raised their shields and spread out, surrounding Natsume and the rest.

Seeing how they reacted, Touji took a step forward.

"This is the previous Onmyou Agency Magical Crime Investigation Department Chief Amami Daizen, as well as his supporters! We made our way here for the exposition issue in [Onmyou Monthly Magazine] few days ago! Allow us to meet with the person-in-charge!"

Feelings of confusion started to spread among the police, it wasn't just because of Touji's words, it was more about his age. Even though Touji behave maturely in the group, but he is still a minor.

While the police were still undecided, a reaction came from inside of the lockdown building.

"Chief!"

"Am, Amami Chief?"

Staff members quickly came out of the building main entrance, the police that left the lockdown unguarded due to the distraction caused by the Hummer backed away. "Re, return back into the building!" Even though they stopped them in a loud voice, but it doesn't seem to have any effects. Some of the staff members realised Suzuka is in the group as well, "That's [Prodigy]!" Some of them shouted.

The users that used [Owl Eye] had perhaps spread the news to everyone in the building, about Amami and the rest making their way here, behind the speechless Natsume's group, "Aye aye." Amami, who held on to Suisen's hand to get on the wheelchair, cannot help to be surprised.

"It seems that this isn't voluntary appearing in court for explanation, more like a victory parade."

Even though it feels like witnessing first-hand how popular Amami really is, but it's a pity that things weren't that simple. It wasn't just staff members that admire Amami, those staff members that were driven into a corner came as well, treating him as their last hope. In other words, the Agency is really in a mess.

Looking at this…

-- Perhaps Kurahashi Chief, he…

"You are Amami Daizen, right!"

As Natsume held feelings of ominous, a man in suit brought along a few policemen, rushed out from the building. He pushed aside those staff members to get near towards them, the police hurriedly back to the sides.

"This is Ministry of Public Security Metropolitan Police Department, we hope you will cooperate in an interrogation with regards to the exposition of the Onmyou Agency."

"No problems, I am willing to cooperate. There is one thing I wish to ask before that, where is Kurahashi Chief right now?"

That person seems to be the person-in-charge of public security, "I do not know." The way he answered Amami's question was extremely strict.

"He is not in the building, we are finding out his location now."

After hearing the man's reply, Natsume kept a straight face, as if this was expected. Amami looked serious, "He is actually not in the building." He muttered to himself.

"Just wait a minute, the official announcement was made an hour ago, right?"

"I heard that it was an order made through the phone, he did not come to the agency today."

This unexpected information made Amami bit his lips.

At this moment, Kyouko walked over.

"May I know if the house has been checked?"

"You are?"

"I am the daughter of Kurahashi Genji."

The man widened his eyes, "He isn't there." He still quickly replied her question.

"We have sent men over to the house, he isn't there. We are now confirming with Exorcist Bureau and other bureaus, we have not found him yet."

"So, this is how it ended up… This is the cons of having the entire commanding system concentrated in the hands of Kurahashi Chief." Amami said coldly.

Under the current system, Kurahashi isn't just the Agency Chief, he is the Chief of Exorcist Bureau as well as Chief of Magic Investigation Department these important key roles. Kurahashi's will can be felt throughout the entire Onmyou Agency. On the flip side, if there was an emergency while he wasn't around, Onmyou Agency will not be able to react well as an organisation. Especially because Kurahashi had great leadership skills, the people under him would not be able to act without orders.

Moreover, after the exposition article in [Onmyou Monthly Magazine] and Amami's video surfaced yesterday, it couldn't be help that normal staff members were shaken. One day later, after the higher ups officially announce that they deny the exposition, it wasn't even an hour later public security came and do a forced investigation. The people onsite were at a loss, in some sense it is kind of expected that confusion will appear in the commands.

Among the all the people that are working in Onmyou Agency, those gathered here are just a small portion. Most of them are now in their respective workplace, observing carefully how will this develop. What they are most concerned with, themselves— what will such a large group of people end up in.

"… Anyways, officer, I am willing to accept interrogation, let me enter the building."

"That was what I have planned— everyone follows as well."

The man spoke to Natsume and the rest, "Aye, let the staff members return back to the building!" giving an order to his subordinates as the same time, he then turned and walked towards the building. Suisen pushed Amami's wheelchair, Natsume and the rest followed behind. During this period of time when they are making their way into the building, the staff members did not stop calling out to Amami, "We are in your care!" there were people who shouted that as well. If things go along with Amami's initial plans, Kogure would turn up here as well— wrong, it may not be him, if there is any current [Twelve Divine Generals] join them, perhaps Amami could return onsite.

The group quickly entered the main hall on the ground floor from the main entrance, Natsume and Touji quickly stand guarded on Amami's both sides, staying alert on their surroundings while moving.

Investigators were moving around in the hall, it was more unorganised than outside. However, once Natsume's group walked in, everyone turned their sights on them as the same time. They originally planned to set a barrier for the sake of safety, but they did not [see] anyone increased their magical powers. Even though they should not be careless, but they did not feel anything threatening.

This time, Suzuka jogged forward, "Hey." she stood beside the man.

"— What happened to the rest of [Twelve Divine Generals]?"

"You… I remember you are Dairenji Suzuka. Speaking of which, you people have accepted interrogation, there is no need to reveal our investigation results to all of you…"

"No, you should tell us. Do not lower your guard… what comes later is actually the important part."

The man kept his silence after hearing Amami's words, but after a short while, "Alright." He finally accepted their request.

"We have come to understand the situation to a certain extent as well, the only person whose location can be confirmed is in Shinjuku Branch, Shigeoka Shunsuke, we could not contact all the others."

"You mean all the others?"

Amami seems as if he did not anticipate this, replied questionably. Natsume and the others looked at each other, they all were in a huge shock.

"Wh, what's going on?"

"Amami-san guessed correctly, something happened inside."

Tenma stuttered, Kyouko shook her head after replying, Touji and Suzuka were speechless.

Perhaps having heard their conversation, the man spoke angrily…

"We had arrested Shigeoka Shunsuke, he is undergoing interrogation now."

"Forget about Magic Investigation Department and Miyachi, Yuge and Kagami… even the Kadei twins couldn't be found? What is going on?"

"That is what we want to say. We already knew Onmyou Agency is a pandemonium, we are also aware that this investigation would be challenging… but this is truly unexpected. Isn't this the time for the entire Onmyou Agency to work together to guard against terror attack? What is really going on here now?"

The man spoke angrily, his tone did not only contain hatred, it contains worry and frustration as well.

Even though it was Naota that pushed for the forced investigation at this timing, the final decision was made by public security, there is no way for them to brush this off as a simple mistake. Moreover, having met with such a baffling situation, it can't be helped that they are at a loss on what to do, hoping for just someone, that has an overall understanding of the situation— like Amami— for an explanation. As interrogating targets, he had perhaps given them exceptional attitude.

-- But really why?

It is impossible for all other [Twelve Divine Generals] to be like-minded with Kurahashi, at least even though Kagami who did not join Natsume's group, but it is impossible for him to work with Kurahashi. What really happened that is not known to Natsume and the rest?

"… Damn it, it is useless to think about it anyway, we can only use our methods to make the best of this situation."

Amami said confidently, he clapped his fan in order to change his feelings, turning his head towards the man at the side.

"So? How much do you trust me now?"

"… At least we have judged the contents of the exposition cannot be treated lightly, that is why we had this forced investigation, it's just that before we had any results, we would not give any assertions."

"Very well. We shall provide you with a direction to investigate then, go and investigate the basement of this building, there is a basement level four that cannot be accessed with the elevator, there lies a shady dungeon."

"Wh, what did you say?"

The man's eyes widened as Amami spoke, how to access the level 4 basement that he had been trapped in before, the man immediately ordered his subordinates to investigate. Natsume has heard about this from her comrades before, Onmyou Agency internal structure is rather complicated, it is like a maze to the outside people, there are various barriers set up in locations only known to magic users. If there is no support from a person who is knowledgeable of the Agency insides, it is impossible to carry out any investigations, that is why Amami is so anxious on rushing over to help.

"You can ask me anything, but do not let down your guard during this period when the Chief isn't found yet. With regards to the exposition, there's actually many things that hasn't been mentioned yet."

The public security seems to have temporary used a large conference room in the building as their investigation headquarters, on the way to the conference room, Amami quickly explained the collusion between Kurahashi and Souma clans, including among the missing [Twelve Divine Generals], Commander of Purification Rites Center Miyachi Chief and Kurahashi are working together. The man's expression turned stiff as he listened on.

The conference room is rather wide, police and staff members kept entering and exiting the room. Negotiation has been left to Amami, Natsume and the rest kept their attention and kept their guards up. No matter what, this is still the headquarters of the enemy's camp, even though Kurahashi isn't here, but his men could take action directly any time.

However, it was the same as when they entered the hall, there was no signs of which they will be attacked inside the building. The ones with murderous intent were all from public security, sense of insecurity could be felt from most of the staff members.

There was another thing, perhaps, not only Kurahashi, Takiko isn't here as well. This is just Natsume's instinct, however Touji and Suzuka who were in confrontation with her a few days ago would surely agree as well. The aura that Takiko gave out that time couldn't be felt at all in the entire building, of course she could have hidden in a barrier or used invisibility, but Natsume doesn't think she would do that.

-- What is going on… I have a bad feeling about this.

The ominous feeling from her heart after hearing Kurahashi isn't in the building, that feeling expanded with the continuous meeting of unexpected situations. Another thing, while they are here, time is still continually lost. Natsume and the rest hasn't considered to have [catch up], the pain from the sharp blade known as time floated into their consciousness once more.

At the moment, a male subordinate rushed into the conference room. He walked towards the man, whispered into his ear. After hearing his report, the man turned towards Amami with a surprised look.

"We have found an unconscious man in the level four basement, we suspect he is the [Heavenly Sword] of the [Twelve Divine Generals]."

"Kogure-san?" Kyouko cried out. "Is he alive?" Amami immediately asked the other party for confirmation, the man immediately nodded his head as well.

"He is in a weak condition, but he is not in a life-threatening situation so far."

"Alright!" Tenma cheered, Touji cheered with clenched fist as well.

Amami had a satisfied smile on his face.

"Wonderful, we can finally turn the tides now."

"Wait, Wait a minute, old geezer! Even if he was being locked in the barrier, those people wouldn't just easily let go of independent officers! What if they had placed a signal on him?"

"If a signal was placed on Kogure, that would surely be an unusual technique, if they had the efforts to place a signal on him, then why would they keep him locked inside?"

Amami refuted Suzuka's worries with a determined attitude, an unwavering confidence can be seen in the old man's eyes.

"Let's talk about the exposition, they could just place a signal on Kogure, make him come out and deny everything, all the shakiness inside the Agency would stop immediately. Even though there is possibility of his memories being sealed, but this kind of techniques only requires little effort to be undone. All we need then is for Kogure to provide his statement and we can topple down the chief in one go!"

Amami made it sound easy, clenching his fist and hit the armrest of the wheelchair. He rarely behaves in such excitement, this was all because Kogure is safe and sound, moreover, he had found his men. For Kogure to testify for the crimes of Kurahashi and the others, was the ideal plan Amami had from the start, it could be that Amami clearly saw the path of [victory] against Kurahashi right now.

Amami, after having lead Natsume and the others to this step, is so excited, his feeling had spread to all of his comrades as well. Everyone's eyes shone brightly, they couldn't hide their happiness.

Yet, the insecure feelings in Natsume's heart did not disappear because of this.

"…Why?" she muttered, everyone turned towards her without saying anything. "Since they left Kogure-san behind, then why is Kurahashi not here? He surely knew if Kogure-san is found, he would lose, right? Yet, why would he do that?"

If Takiko and the others were fighting for the success of [Tensou Chifu Ritual], then Onmyou Agency would be the battlefield left to Kurahashi. For the sake of using the greatest weapon, authority, to support Takiko and the rest, this battlefield known as Onmyou Agency must be continually kept under control, not to mention they toss away their weak point, Kogure, giving up on this place.

Just as Natsume spoke about her feelings of insecurity—

"Eh, wh, what happened?"

Tenma screamed, outside of the building— it's just nearby, an astonishing amount of magical power exploded suddenly.

After the magic power was absorbed by the ground, it flowed into the technique covered with invisibility, it then spread through the technique on the ground at one go, as if a fire spread through the ground through kerosene. The technique fully surrounded the entire building, "Oh no!" Suzuka shouted, next moment, the large-scale technique was completed, the spell activated.

A large, thick and odd shaped barrier covered the entire building, screams and shouts could be heard outside the conference room as well. Amami, whose Spirit Sight ability got sealed away, observed the reactions of Natsume and the rest, "What happened?" He asked in a harsh tone.

"Th, the building was suddenly covered in a barrier…" Kyouko replied in a shaky voice.

"This is bad! I kept on [observing] the permanent barrier of the building, but I did not caution against the outside of the building, this totally looks like Eight Formation Barrier!"

Suzuka spitted with a pale expression, "What?" Amami went speechless, all the Onmyouji in the building were taken by surprised as well.

"Damn it, don't tell me…!"

Touji cursed as he muttered, Natsume raised her head to [see] the barrier that enveloped the building, she helplessly widened her eyes.

-- Not like this…

"We are being locked up…?"

☆

After confirming the barrier had activated, Kumomaru raised up the hand that was placed on the asphalt road, he then stood up.

He walked out of the alley, watching how the policemen on the circular car park were in confusion. The barrier Kurahashi designed blocked off physical interactions as well, it means to [completely] seal the building. The police force could very well perhaps have taken by surprise at how they could not enter the building due to being blocked by an invisible wall.

The strength of the barrier is near to that of the Eight Formation Barrier, and the part that is more similar to Eight Formation Barrier was spread [inside], at the same time it was turned over [outside] to spread as a twin barrier. Even though it isn't a technique that could not be broken, but it is an extremely difficult task to either break the barrier from inside or outside.

The only weakness of this barrier is that, even if large amount of magic was injected into it, it only be maintained a few hours at most. However, this few hours right now would surely be more valuable than the amount in the next few years.

This was a trap originally meant to be used against Tsuchimikado Harutora or Ashiya Doman.

"…I did not expect it to be useful now…"

This is one of Souma and Kurahashi's killing move, but now is not the time to feel sorry, they are not so optimistic to win without much difficulty.

"It was a brilliant tactic, Amami Chief, but we are the ones who have won."

After saying these words in a low voice, Kumomaru turned and left the building.

The sun is setting gradually.

The sky was dyed in red-orange colour, [disaster] could be felt from this weather, perhaps it was due to the situation Akino is in now. Among the various expressions the sky displays, that's the weather that has the highest possibility to strongly shake people's hearts.

Akino and Takiko boarded the vehicle that was driven by Kumomaru, Takahiro and Chizuru still stayed at that previous location. A silently tensed atmosphere dominated in the vehicle, no one spoke. Akino isn't familiar with the geography of the city, but she didn't ask where the group is heading, she fully understands the objective of this trip.

Even though Akino is part of the Souma Clan, but she didn't expect Takiko brought her along as well even at this period of time. Trusting Akino— It doesn't seem to be that way in reality.

Before departing, she asked for the reason. "I hope you could take a look." She replied simply.

Akino and Takiko arrived at a certain shrine in the center of the city. The place where they got off the vehicle was in front of the Torii, raising her head, an inscribed board with [Kanda Shrine] written was hanged there. It seems like this is a famous shrine, but due to barriers being erected all around it to isolate people from coming in, no one can be seen visiting the shrine.

The driver, Kumomaru, got off the vehicle, "This way." Directing the two.

The road approaching the shrine was a slope. At the top, a two-storey tall shrine gate could be seen. The bronze tile roof and the scarlet pillars were dyed in the evening atmosphere, the second layer portion was four gods sculptures, the two sides of the first layer were Zuijinzo— Toyoiwama Donokami and Kushiiwama Donokami guarding the magnificent Zuijinmon[2]. Perhaps it was because there wasn't anyone around, the divine prestige of the god's territory was more apparent, Akino couldn't help but to get goose bumps.

Under Kumomaru's lead, Takiko climbed the slope, Akino followed as well. Akino hasn't once thought of running away, since Kumomaru is around, she didn't think that she could successfully escape with her own leg muscles, moreover, she didn't want to run away. She felt that she should stay at Takiko's side now, it could very well perhaps she had been [mesmerised] by the faint divine prestige around Takiko.

The current Takiko isn't wearing her usual Onmyou Academy uniform, she is wearing a miko outfit, and it is black miko outfit at that, this kind of outfit gives people a completely different impression from her usual white uniform. Because of this black miko outfit, it adds a beautiful and coquettish elegance to her innate royalty-like noble and awe-inspiring temperament.

The sinking sun merged with the world, the black miko approaches the shrine.

Akino's group entered the Zuijinmon, entered the territory of the shrine. It wasn't sure if she had been oversensitive, the sunset seems to turn redder. There wasn't anyone to be seen paying respects in the wide temple grounds as well, however, in front of the praying hall ahead of them, there is a man in formal belt and a man in kasaya waiting for Takiko's arrival.

One of them is Kurahashi, the other that is slightly shorter, it is the first time she met him, but she could guess his identity from the moustache on his chin and the side of his lips. Even though he is wearing a priest's robe, that person should be an Onmyouji named Miyachi, she often hears Takiko and the others talking about this name.

Takiko proceeded forward, the two of them lowered their heads in respect.

"We have been waiting, please proceed this way."

Kurahashi showed the way from here on, Kumomaru returned to Takiko's side. Miyachi stood where he was, watching Akino and the rest leave.

The praying hall and the Zuijinmon are similar, their roofs were built with bronze tiles, the magnificently beautiful hall was painted in scarlet. Kurahashi turned towards the side of the praying hall, after passing through the phoenix hall proceeding towards the back of the shrine. Next, he made a hand seal in front of a seemingly normal looking outer wall, calling out… "Open."

The next moment, a metal door appeared on the wall in front of them, that door was usually hidden using magical seal. While Akino was still feeling surprised, Kurahashi opened the door as if nothing had happened and entered inside.

Behind the door was a flight of stairs leading to the basement, there isn't any light inside, but one can see a dim light source coming from the bottom of the stairs.

The Onmyouji lead the black miko into the underground, the rabbit living spirit fearfully followed behind. After going down the stairs, cracking sounds of burning woods can be heard from below. After reaching the bottom, there was another tunnel at the side, leading to a wide space. Upon arriving inside, Akiko gasped.

That was a basement, there was a burning bonfire inside, the glow of the flames lit up the entire basement, the space of the basement seems to be able to equal the space of the shrine, height wise perhaps it is as tall as the phoenix hall outside. There were pillars on the walls at uniform distance, cement was applied at about half the height of the walls, further up were rocks and soil from the outside. The ceiling only consists of a few beams, the entire architecture looks like a cavern.

At the center of the basement, an altar was set up.

That was a stone platform surrounded with Torii, a black Torii on the south, a blue Torri on the east, a red Torri on the north, a white Torri on the west.

The altar was made up of many platforms, there were many offerings placed on them, there were also a Taiko, a conch, silk, sun bell and moon bell [3] with other ritual tools and magical tools. The fire of the bonfires placed at each corner of the stone platform danced, the glows revealed the items on the altar.

The young man sitting in the middle of the shrine stood up and turned over, "… Princess." That was Yashamaru.

"Apologises for making you wait, the preparations are finally completed."

Yashamaru stayed here all along to do final checks for the ritual, Takiko nodded to the guardian without any expression, she then walked towards the altar.

The glows from the four corners shine on the altar, making Takiko in black miko outfit look like a shadow with a form, only the red hair of hers that is brighter than the bonfires shone into the eyes.

Once Takiko stood on the altar platform, the aura of the basement immediately changed. Akino did not know how to explain this, it felt like the air that was originally in slumber woke up, filling up the entire basement— wrong, it is a huge amount of air that even this large underground space cannot contain is gradually opening its eyes…

Akino unknowingly started to hold herself with both her arms.

Yashamaru retreated to the side, Takiko took strict steps as she moves to the center of the altar.

She stood in front of the pedestal, Yashamaru revealed a smile after [seeing] her aura. It's just that due to the glow from the fires brightened his monocle, a circle seems to be missing in his smile.

Yashamaru turned towards Kumomaru.

"What about the Agency?"

"The barrier is still intact, but time is almost up."

"The barrier was already meant to be raised to a strength that can last till sunset before this, did Yuge and Miyoshi appear?"

"Not yet till now."

"Is that so, North Star King and [Shadow] not appearing is within expectation, I had originally planned to use this disturbance to catch those who left… seems like things didn't went smoothly."

Yashamaru spoke as if nothing happened, a smile appeared on his lips.

Give up Onmyou Agency. They had made such a decision, it was at that time when they found out Yuge and the rest chose to leave from Miyachi's report yesterday.

When receiving this report, "Yamashiro left as well?" Kurahashi reaffirmed. After getting a firm answer from Miyachi, he did not say anything more. From his usual stern expression, no one could tell what he was thinking in his heart. On the other hand, Yashamaru attached extreme importance to Miyachi's report, it felt like a strong quake appeared at the originally assumed, on certain levels, rather [stable] base.

That was why he made the decision to give up Onmyou Agency.

In fact, this decision was opposed by Satake, thinking he was too extreme. [Twelve Divine Generals] leaving together was indeed a blow, but the value of [Onmyou Agency] isn't just revolving around them, the power and authority of it still remains as strong weapons.

The Onmyou Agency holds a rather special power in society, in an extreme way, if Onmyou Agency wants to distort facts— of course this would require thorough planning— everyone would accept their saying in the end. What other ministries cannot do, Onmyou Agency—the magic world is able to do it. As to why… it is because the issues in the magic world is only understandable by magic users, in the eyes of people that aren't clear of the situation, Onmyou Agency's power and authority can be used to its full effect.

This is why whether it's the exposition from Amami, or any accusations from Yuge and the rest that have left, as long as they hold on to Onmyou Agency— even if the outside world start developing feelings of mistrust, suspicions or even hostility, all could be solved with brute force. When everything ends, Onmyou Agency's existence will surely be a position of great importance.

After listening to Satake's opinion, "What Masumi said makes sense as well." Yashamaru agreed to the nephew's speech too.

"If this was before the exposition appeared, I would have made the same judgement."

"What a minute, is uncle that concerned with the exposition? Surely there is a portion of the media stir up trouble, but to be honest, that shouldn't cause any direct obstructions. Now we do not have the spare time, but if we manipulate the media later, it would be easy to settle this."

"This kind of thinking is too naïve. I did say this before, right? Since Chief Amami has come forward, there will surely be a [next move]. That man never used methods that do not cause [direct obstruction], moreover, if the [next move] connects with the leaving of Yuge and the rest, this could perhaps turn into a rather thorny situation."

A complete preparation must be done for all kinds of things, this was mentioned during yesterday noon as well. Yashamaru established the policy to not stubbornly hold control of Onmyou Agency at this time, has received Kurahashi's agreement as well. Then, at the moment they received news on public security making their move, he thought of using the barrier that is already in place in reverse to lockdown the agency.

Not just Amami and Suzuka, now that Yuge and the rest of the [Divine Twelve Generals] have left, the intervention by the administration of justice has turned their situation into something very dangerous, this proves Yashamaru's initial fears were right.

After receiving the news of Onmyou Agency being under forced investigation, it will be an ideal situation to trap everyone in one go after Amami and the rest, as well as Yuge's group rushed to Onmyou Agency. Even if things did not develop smoothly, they had originally hoped, like in the past, that by capturing Tsuchimikado Natsume and the rest, it could have an effect of luring out Harutora, in the end, this seems to turn out to be a disappointment as well.

"To disappear at this critical junction is indeed suspicious, but we have to move to the final step no matter what, there is no way to keep up guarded."

Yashamaru said, Kurahashi nodded heavily.

"The sun is setting soon."

"I understand… princess?"

Making her way up to the altar, Takiko observed the sacrifices placed on the platform, silently standing there. After hearing the call from her guardian, she leisurely looked over, "Let's start, raise the altar up." She mentioned casually in a calm voice.

Yashamaru place his hand on his chest, gracefully gave a bow. Kumomaru swiftly jumped onto the altar on the stone platform.

Kurahashi made his way up to the stone platform as well, "Souma Akino, come over as well." Akino was scared frozen by the sudden mention of her name. "Akino." However, after Takiko called out her name, her nervousness relaxed, she hurriedly made her way up to the altar.

After making sure everyone is on the altar, Kurahashi took out a round mirror. "Is that thing going to be okay?" Yashamaru asked, "It has been strengthened." Kurahashi answered.

"Alright, let's put in our all."

Yashamaru took out a talisman, threw it towards the ceiling. The talisman stuck on the ceiling, the magic inside the talisman pierce through the ground.

Then, Kurahashi held the round mirror up, he began chanting incantation.

"O' ancient city sealed temporary, reveals itself to the world from now on— Heavenly altar seal."

After which, aura appeared in the mirror, the Torri surrounding the altar resonated with the aura of the mirror, each producing a black, blue, red and white ray of light, finally reflecting yellow light from the mirror. Akino stood alert, the bright five coloured rays surround the entire altar.

The five coloured rays formed a steady barrier, sealing the altar.

A few seconds later, an explosion like shock pierce through the ground, a huge quake appeared in the basement. "Yaa!" Akino screamed.

The ceiling cracked along with the noise, magma like flames seep into the ground. Intense lag appeared on the barrier that surrounds the altar due to the falling flames, however, most of the flames did not fall on the floor, rather, it rages mid-air, destroying and also collapsing the ceiling. Rocks and soil fell continuously, but the barrier of the altar repelled all of it.

Akino's body shook helplessly at the shocking scene above her head, yet it couldn't leave her sight.

Next, the floor below started to shake.

The stone platform rose up suddenly, the shock from below caused Akino to lose her balance and fell sitting on the floor. The ground swelled, it rose higher and higher after swelling. The falling flames and soil were instead repelled upwards by the barrier, all the way up— from the slumbering underground to the surface.

Akino couldn't control herself any longer, she curled herself up while screaming, lying on the floor. She shifted her sight away from the chaotic scene surrounding her, emptying her mind, only to hope everything be over soon.

Then—

Unknowingly, wind blew past Akino's ears. The scary situation seems to cause the appearance of her rabbit ears without her knowledge. Akino twitched her ears, raising her head timidly.

They are outside.

The view in front is the temple grounds where they had walked pass before, the two-storey high Zuijinmon could be seen. She hurriedly turned behind, the praying hall was right there. The ground between Zuijinmon and the praying hall has collapsed, the altar and the stone platform along with the surrounding Torri had rose from below. Akino was scared speechless.

"Miyachi, great work!"

Yashamaru shouted, the man in priest robe in front of the praying hall— Miyachi nodded, and walked towards the altar.

"Are the preparations in the main hall done?"

"Yes, preparations are completed, coordination with the ceremony can be done any time."

"Very well."

Yashamaru broadly smiled, he was in an unusually happy mood. As for Kurahashi, he smashed the round mirror that is used for the barrier on the ground, next, a lag appeared in the barrier that survived the collapse before disappearing, the remaining aura left within the barrier drifted off at the same time as well.

The raging ancient aura from underneath mixed with the aura of the surface, a whirl is created.

The miko in black stood in the center of the whirl, silently watching sunset, "… Finally…" her lips whispered softly.

Yet, this soft whisper made Yashamaru, Kumomaru and even Kurahashi stop what they were doing, turned and looked in her direction.

Their eyes held different feelings as they watched Takiko. The truth is as she described, the moment they have been waiting for is finally here.

This is a thousand year long-cherished wish of the Souma clan, as well as a duty of the Kurahashi Clan. Their emotions were high, their goal is within reach.

At the same time, this was something extremely personally for them— the end of their plans which they had place their lives on. The whisper of the miko made them remember this once more.

Facing various situations, a long period of time has passed.

Gaining or losing many things in the process, moving forward a step at a time.

Then, finally reaching this step. The altar they had kept hidden underground for so long is finally revealed to the world.

The long robe of Takiko swayed, she walked towards the altar placed with offerings. Even though it has been through severe shaking, the altar, as well as the offering and ritual tools on the platforms were still in their neat positions. Takiko took the round bamboo box placed in the middle of the platform, opened the lid, taking out the folded decorated paper placed inside.

That was a scroll with incantation recorded on it.

Yashamaru gave a look at Kurahashi, Kurahashi walked down from the altar after understanding his intentions, walking out in the direction outside of the Torri. "You come over as well." Akino jumped after hearing him, clumsily walked down from the stone platform.

Miyachi stood beside Kurahashi, Kumomaru held the conch on his hands, Yashamaru moved to the front of the Taiko, taking the drum stick. After Akino walked out of the Torri, she turned back with her ears straightened, observing in full attention at Takiko on the altar.

"We shall now begin [Tensou Chifu Ritual]."

Takiko made this declaration, Yashamaru hit the drum.

Dong, the sound of the drum tears the air apart, piercing through the fiery red sky.

☆

"Keep up the effort! Flaws has appeared in the technique."

Under the encouragement of Suzuka, Natsume and the rest increased their magic power once more.

At the main hall on the ground level of the building, many personnel— almost all the Onmyouji in the building gathered at the main entrance. Everyone worked with each other, combining their efforts to break the barrier that is trapping them, of course Natsume, Touji, Kyouko and Tenma were among them.

"We are going to succeed! It seems that time is up for this barrier, the structure of the technique became loose, we can now rely on the accumulation of magic power to break this barrier!"

The one in command is Suzuka, Amami, whose Spirit Vision got sealed and couldn't [see] aura, was unable to handle the barrier surrounding the building, this way, the next [person with actual strength] after him belongs to the [Prodigy Child] of the [Twelve Divine Generals], Dairenji Suzuka.

Suzuka had the same seal as Amami on her as well, the difference is that her magic powers weren't fully sealed, only being limited. Moreover, Suzuka is specialized in researching [Imperial Style Onmyou Techniques], analysis of techniques can be said to be her [main job].

With that said, it is very difficult to break the barrier that is surrounding the building even with Suzuka as well. This barrier that was set by the enemy has complicatedly merged with the original permanent barrier, moreover, to increase the difficulty of undoing the spell, they had added many difficult to undo yet useless spells. Of course, this couldn't be a barrier created in a short while, surely it was before this— and it's a trap that was set long time ago.

When they finally saw a glimmer of hope, it was after they realise the strength of the barrier weakens with time, however this realisation also exposes the enemy's intention behind setting up this trap. That was to drag their time out.

-- Hurry! If we don't hurry…!

Because she was forced to be on standby for a long period, her magic powers were rather abundant, it just that they couldn't stop being anxious. Even though she had thought of just releasing the seal and use Hokuto's dragon aura, but with so many Onmyouji combining their powers, mixing Natsume's dragon aura would just scatter the magic powers, Touji did not go into living spirit due to the same reasoning as well. Ultimately, she can only listen to Suzuka's suggestions, concentrating everyone's powers to expand the flaws of the technique.

"I had [judged the situation wrongly]." After realising they had been trapped in the Agency, Amami said this with an expression filled with regret. "I did not expect those people would give up Onmyou Agency so easily… damn it, I had underestimated their [determination]."

With regards to undoing the barrier, the current Amami couldn't help in any way, he could only pray and watch over at the side as his comrades' fights.

Regarding this, it was the same as for the public security policemen.

The public security policemen watched the large group of Onmyouji following the instructions of a young girl, their minds were rather confused. To be trapped in the building when they are doing forced investigation, it was the first time they had encounter this. Even though they were still able to exchange information with the team outside, but to break the current deadlock, they can only rely on the Onmyouji that are their investigation targets.

Looking through the glass panels and the automatic doors of the main hall on the ground level, one can [see] ripple like lag appeared on the barrier surrounding the building. Due to the many Onmyouji using their magic powers without stopping, the ceaseless lag continued shaking the barrier.

It would be a tremendous help if Kogure comes to assist, it's a pity that he hasn't regain consciousness yet. Even though his magic powers weren't sealed away, but his physical condition is extremely weak right now. The Exorcist Bureau has many specialists that specialises in aiding the recovering of magic powers, but there were none of them inside Onmyou Agency, they are now relying on a few Onmyouji taking time off to treat him with their best effort.

From the corner of Natsume's sight, Amami could be seen checking the time. Sunset is approaching very soon, Natsume felt a cramping pain in her stomach.

However, the hard work of Natsume and the rest had finally shown results.

"—We succeeded!"

The moment Suzuka cried out, different to previous in terms of scale, a lightning kind of lag passed through the barrier. The technique broke at the same time, the barrier collapsed, the magical powers injected in it spread out.

All the Onmyouji kept silent, after which they gave a tremendous cheer. "It is opened?" the public security in charge couldn't help to be excited as well.

Among all the people, the earliest to run outside was Touji, followed by Natsume.

The two of them ran out of the main entrance to the circular car park outside, the surrounding police were taken aback. The pair did not pay attention to their reactions, raising their heads looking towards the sky. Sunset. The scarlet sky was far brighter and deeper than usual, the setting sun sank behind the tower, disappearing without a trace.

"How was it! It hasn't start right!"

"Not sure! But I haven't gotten the feeling of a large-scale Spiritual Disaster yet--!"

There wasn't a way to confirm the aura outside when they were trapped in the barrier, [seeing] nothing unusual so far, the agency did not receive any news of Spiritual Disaster occurring as well.

However, Amami had predicted the ritual would be held in the evening, if his guess was right, the ritual could start any moment.

Shortly after Natsume and Touji, Tenma and Kyouko walked out of the building as well. Followed by Suzuka, then Suisen pushing Amami on the wheelchair came outside with the public security man.

The man ordered the subordinates rushing over to quickly regroup, he then passed his commanding powers to the other party before following behind Amami.

"Could this be the forewarned terrorist attack?"

"You know it yourself that this is impossible."

"Amami-san, you couldn't think of where could Kurahashi Chief be?"

"Do you think Chief would be at the place where I can guess? He is surely at Souma Takiko's side, perhaps they are starting the ceremony right now."

Amami used a rough tone to answer Touji who is rushing towards himself. It's just that while he answered the man and Touji's questions, his brain is working is full speed, predicting how things will develop from now. On the other hand, Natsume jumped upon hearing the term ceremony.

"On the Heavenly Altar."

"What?"

"[Tensou Chifu Ritual] is a magic ceremony extended from [Taizan Fukun Ritual], if Takiko and the rest wants to hold the ceremony, they must be at a place with Heavenly Altar set up!"

From what Natsume knows, the Heavenly Altar is set up in two locations. One of them is on the top of the [Imperial Hill] that is near the Tsuchimikado Main House, the same place where Natsume and Harutora went to stop Suzuka, as she tried to revive her brother back then, but that Heavenly Altar is too far away from Tokyo.

The other one is on the rooftop of the Onmyou Academy building, the place where they ambushed Ashiya Doman when Onmyou Academy came under attack. So as to say, the first time Natsume met Takiko was on the rooftop of the academy as well, Takiko expressed that she was visiting the Heavenly Altar at that time.

"Onmyou Academy? Certainly, there is a chance…"

"Wait a minute, I do have a subordinate observing Onmyou Academy, he has not seen Kurahashi Genji appear."

"Your subordinate that is observing isn't a magic user, right? In their eyes, sending that kind of subordinate to observe is as good as not sending."

The way Touji spoke caused the man to feel ashamed, yet he can't find any words to refute, perhaps he fully understands how difficult it is to investigate magical crimes.

But—

"… There alone it's just [not enough]."

"Suzuka?"

"Those guys are surely trying to hold a magic ceremony of a rather magnificent scale, after all, that is not to control one person, but to control a god's soul. The Heavenly Altar used for [Taizan Fukun Ritual] is simply not enough, it should be at least twelve times larger than that… if it's calculated in multiplication instead of addition, a scale of one hundred and fifty times or more is required to carry out the technique."

Suzuka participated in a part of the research when she was under Yashamaru. Even though she did not take part in the core areas, but she was able to know about the general situation to a certain extent.

Hearing Suzuka's explanation, "One hundred and fifty times…!" Tenma couldn't help to be shocked. "Where can we find an altar with such a scale?"

"We wouldn't be guessing so hard if we knew, stupid glasses!"

"But logically speaking it shouldn't be inside Tokyo city, it is impossible not to gain people's attention by preparing such a large altar."

After Kyouko finishing speaking, "No, it couldn't be said this way." Amami rejected her views.

"They are trying to summon Taira no Masakado, speaking of the current Masakado-sama, the guardian god of Tokyo, it is impossible to descend to other locations."

"Anyway, we do not have the time to slowly look for that altar, let's try our luck, we shall now rush to Onmyou Academy."

"I just said the altar isn't large enough, right!"

"Now isn't the time to look for altars, right?"

Touji and Suzuka argued without stopping, "Stop arguing." Tenma came forward to stop them. However, if they were to believe what Suzuka said, then Onmyou Academy wouldn't be able to prepare such a large altar due to being an easy target of attention.

-- But such a large altar couldn't be fully invisible as well, it is still reasonable if it's located deep in the mountains, to prepare in the center of the city yet did not attract any attention, this is really… The scale of the altar is determined by how much spiritual power and magical power it can contain, how big or small do not have a direct relationship of comparison with physical scale, but it is not fully unrelated either. If there is a need of a hundred and fifty times large Heavenly Altar, its scale would be rather huge.

-- Where could it be?

Just as Natsume couldn't think of any ideas no matter how hard she tries, things started to change.

The first to notice was Hummer. "Master." Hummer, which stopped on the circular car park, called out.

"Observation shows the possibility of all surrounding [AR4 - Morito] being unusual, the magical power exchanged between them is unusually increased."

"Eh, wh, what do you mean?"

Tenma couldn't understand what is going on for a moment, as he asked back, something behind him was blasted away.

Explosives. This idea flashed past his mind, Natsume and the rest turned and looked towards the direction of the noise in alert. That was opposite of the agency separated by the circular car park—the walkway in front of the road. There stands something similar to a Jizo Hall, a one metre tall shrine. The roof of the small shrine was destroyed by the explosion, a loud noise was produced before it landed on the asphalt road.

Before the explosion, they did not notice something like that was erected there. That thing looks like a small shrine, but it's actually a shikigami— mechanical type that uses materials as body [AR4 - Morito], was placed around the city by Onmyou Agency.

But—

"This is…?"

"Wh, what is with the amount of magic power?"

Natsume speechlessly [look] at [Morito], Kyouko helplessly cried out. "What happened?" Amami asked sharply, but not a single person there had the strength to answer his question.

[Morito] is an extremely special shikigami, it is not a single unit, but as a whole to form [Early Spiritual Disaster Detection Network], every [Morito] is an end of the detection network as well as a detection radar.

Currently, [Morito] is filled with large amount of magical power exceeding its capacity, moreover, there were many magical lines branching out of [Morito], perhaps they were connected to other nearby [Morito] units. [Early Spiritual Disaster Detection Network] utilises the exchange of magic power between [Morito] units, it's a system that uses transmitting of magical power to notify about spiritual disaster happening. In other words, even though they are still operating normally, the amount of magical power exchanged is far from usual, moreover, the amount of magical power is still continually increasing.

"It is judged that the phenomenon now is similar to the level four spiritual disaster happened in Ogikubo previously, but the amount of magical power detected at the moment is three hundred times or more."

"Three—" Natsume was speechless for a moment.

"Damn it, what is going on! Couldn't be that it detected a large spiritual disaster happening right!"

The possibility Touji shouted made everyone felt cold, indeed, looking at how [Morito] is reacting, there is no other possibilities. In the past, Tsuchimikado Yakou had failed holding a magic ceremony causing a large spiritual disaster, after that the spiritual phase of Tokyo changed because to it, becoming the ultimate reason why spiritual disasters kept on happening to date. Souma wanted to hold [Tensou Chifu Ritual], is really [the ceremony that Yakou failed].

However, "Wrong!" Suzuka rejected his views.

"This… this isn't just magic power! This is a magic technique that follows a procedure! Someone is using the detection network to perform a magic technique—"

Suddenly…

Suzuka widened her eyes greatly, she stopped speaking halfway. She frantically swings her twin tails, [seeing] the surroundings, "Don't tell me." She muttered in shock.

"… The, the detection network is spread throughout the entire city… the scale is sufficient… those guys are trying to use [Early Spiritual Disaster Detection Network] as Heavenly Altar!... they had set up this detection network from the very beginning for this purpose!"

Even Natsume gasped at the words of Suzuka.

The installation of the detection network in the entire city was already done, the scale isn't something the Heavenly Altar in Onmyou Academy could compare to. If the entirety of the network is used as an altar for the magic ceremony, it would be effortless to fulfil the condition Suzuka had stated earlier.

The magic technique flowed into the detection network with great speed, spreading between [Morito] units, soon it will form an extremely large altar encompassing the entire heart of Tokyo city.

In other words…

"They had started [Tensou Chifu Ritual]!"

"How could this--!"

Despair caused Natsume to feel faint, she could not do anything, only to [see] the magic power lines flowing in front of her eyes. If they were to destroy the [Morito] in front of them immediately, perhaps they could stop the flow of magic power lines, however, [Morito] is installed everywhere in the city, forming a net shaped detection network, even if they sever the magic power line in front of them, it wouldn't any huge effects. The countdown has ended, Natsume stood there without moving.

But—

-- Strange?

[Unknown things] can be [seen] added into the magic technique infused in the magic power lines, and during the moment the [unknown things] were felt, the happenings during that time flashed past Natsume's mind without her knowing why— the feeling when Akino used Far Step that time.

It was sound that time, but this time… this magic power…

"Harutora?"

Coming up closely, a second change happened.

☆

It seems like the peaceful temple grounds on the surface has swapped with the altar hidden underground, the scenery in front looks like an exchange of the [secular world] and [under world].

The accumulated ley lines of the sky and earth connects the sky faraway and Takiko on the stone platform, the scenery of the scarlet sky— the sky, welcoming Omagatoki, transferred aura through the ley lines. The aura that descended from above Takiko's head spread outwards, the place inside surrounded by the Torri turned into a [world] unknown to Akino. Magnificently beautiful and overwhelming— holy, an appearance that is suitable to be called [god's territory].

Takiko's body filled with powerful magic, read out the incantations on the scroll in a loud voice.

What was fearful is that, as she read the incantations, the sky continued to develop new ley lines, connecting to the miko's body. The ley lines crossed each other, fused, continually increase in power. [Taizan Fukun Ritual] is a magic ceremony that uses the existence of the spirit called [Taizan Fukun] as a contact, the higher positioned [Tensou Chifu Ritual] isn't just [Taizan Fukun], it a worshipping ceremony that requires the worship of all twelve gods. Not just concentrating on one god, but a complicated magic technique that relates many gods.

Anyway, to calculate the amount of [gods] is a senseless action. From the [Imperial Style Onmyou Techniques] point of view, gods spread throughout the world, it normally exists everywhere, it's a general entity as well as a single entity, it's a single entity as well as a general entity. No matter if the eight million gods are treated as collection of individuals, or the portion of single existence, or even looking from another perspective, no one can judge what is right or what is wrong as well.

Gods have different appearance, and it changes with time, sometimes gather and sometimes separate, sometimes changes its name, return to its original appearance, or to be born again after disappearing. Following the observations of observers, it has infinite changes, yet it commonly exists in this world. It is logical no matter the explanation, magic techniques categorise this kind of situation, giving them a name and even add in other meanings, all these are just to coordinate with the needs of the observers.

The only thing that is clear as day, the difference in scale between [Tensou Chifu Ritual] and [ Taizan Fukun Ritual]. A larger and stronger [hall] is required to hold [Tensou Chifu Ritual] compared to [Taizan Fukun Ritual]. Moreover, in the [Imperial Style] techniques, the larger the [hall] the more stable it is, according to the records left in the Kurahashi Household, Tsuchimikado Yakou had put in a lot of effort into this as well.

For that, Yashamaru— Dairenji Shidou came out with the idea of [Early Spiritual Disaster Detection Network].

"—The head of Souma Clan Souma Takiko hereby humbly report to the ancestral spirit Taira no Masakado—"

After finish reading the incantations, Takiko raised the scroll to her head level, the scroll then automatically floats up above her, it then burned up as in seemingly green blue flames. The spiritual pressure on the stone platform appear to be highly destructive, escaping into a corner inside the temple grounds, Akiko curled up with her rabbit ears straightened, her body shook uncontrollably.

"Kurahashi! I'm leaving it to you!"

Standing together with his mistress on the altar, Yashamaru sent him instructions while continuously repairing the magic technique. For [Tensou Chifu Ritual], other than Takiko attaining god form, her guardians, Yashamaru and Kumomaru had to be involved in the magic technique as well, unable to leave, thus, things related on how will the magic technique proceed, they had checked thoroughly a few times before.

Among the Torri that surrounds the stone platform, Kurahashi was standing by at the side of the Black Torri that stands in the north, Miyachi could be seen on standby at the side of the Blue Torri of the east. Coordinating with the instructions from Yashamaru, the two of them faced each other, allowing the spiritual pressure between them to change, directing the aura that is coming out of the altar.

Between the Blue and Black Torri, the stone platform which is filled with aura— was released at one go through the Demon Gate positioned in the North East. The front of the Demon Gate on the altar is the praying hall of Kanda Shrine— behind the praying hall is a magnificent main hall. The aura went straight through the praying hall and was completely absorbed by the main hall, then with the prepared magic technique, magic power lines shoots out in all directions.

The magic power lines extend towards the ends of [Early Spiritual Disaster Detection Network], mechanical type [AR4 - Morito]. [Morito] units were broken while sustaining magic power lines that is over their limited capacity, but they were not completely broken, so they continued connecting magic power lines to other neighbouring [Morito] units. This kept on repeating, causing a chain reaction, the connection of magic power lines resulted in an explosive growth, forming into a strong magic technique on the [net] of the [Early Spiritual Disaster Detection Network].

Magic power lines extended throughout the entire city, forming a large altar. Onmyou Agency— the [Early Spiritual Disaster Detection Network] Kurahashi promoted, is actually a preparation for this moment. [Morito] had a shape of a small shrine, but perhaps no one had realised that shape is a copy of the main hall of the Kanda Shrine.

The huge altar and the ley line underground of Tokyo started to resonate, that ley line was previously dug by Dairenji Shidou and Mutobe Chihiro and they revived it. The ley lines of other places were directed by the magic technique flowing in the magic power lines, flowed to the center of the Heavenly Altar— the stone platform that appeared at Kanda Shrine. The ley lines pulsated, cycling along with the magic power lines.

Flowing from the sky to Takiko, flowing from Takiko to the detection network, flowing from the detection network to the ley lines, then return to Takiko, it looks as if blood vessels that goes through the entire city. If the Heavenly Altar is described as blood vessels, the stone platform and Takiko standing on it could be described as the heart of the incarnated [god].

Bright light fully surrounds the miko, the ley lines connecting the sky and earth is like a standing pillar holding the heavens. The aura flowing downwards changed the appearance of the surroundings, reminds people of the myth of the birth of the country, where Izanagi no Mikoto and Izanami no Mikoto dive the spear, Ame no Nuboko, to churn the chaos in the lower world.

Everything is going well. As the worshipping ceremony is in progress, Yashamaru gave such a comment.

Staying in the real world even after dying, the stubborn shikigami observed the mythical scenery, was extremely excited. Yet, he did not lose his cool because of it, the technique could collapse anytime, it wouldn't be surprising if the Heavenly Altar couldn't withstand the load and collapse.

However, the ceremony continues on, it is not a discussion of theory in the research laboratory, but an actual demonstration in the real world.

He could feel many or many levels of large [existence] that spread across the entire world, one of it being inside of Takiko's body slowly showing its entity form, that is an [existence] which is called out by Takiko, directed by her blood. His heart beat increased, he even felt faint. Yashamaru, who is Dairenji Shidou and Souma Clan, had worshiped and waited for a long thousand years, this spiritual existence which everybody has been long waiting for— one of the gods or a portion of god's [existence].

Takiko is trying to let such a [existence] wake up from a thousand-year slumber, appearing in reality. Yashamaru kept up his guard, observing this moment.

It was this thinking, that he had lowered his guard.

"Yashamaru!"

Kurahashi shouted, Yashamaru returned to his senses, as if waking up startled.

He did not feel the change immediately. Nothing had changed— wrong, the cycle had slowed down. After noticing this, the situation where the flow of magic power had stopped rapidly deteriorate. "Kumomaru!" even though he injected magic power to aid the cycle as the same time, but it was an inadequate measure.

"How could this happen!"

Yashamaru desperately used magic to break the stopping of magic power flow, but it was ineffective. His mind went black, he couldn't think of the cause and the counter measures for it. Thinking of the things in front of him breaking soon, yet he had no way of stopping it, this situation called out a feeling that he had long forgotten.

Fear.

However, "Yashamaru!" after Kurahashi shouted at him angrily, he came back to his senses.

"There are other magic techniques mixed into the back-flowing ley lines! Someone had set a trap!"

He immediately turned his focus towards the ley lines where magic powers were back-flowing. The magic power follows the technique to become a magic technique, but a portion of the back-flowing magic powers from the entire city had its technique changed out. Moreover, the techniques that were changed— it's like adding poison into water current, contaminating the entire cycle. Where did it came from? In order to search for the source, Yashamaru concentrated on following the flow of the ley lines. He then realised the truth, clenching his teeth angrily.

Those [unknown things] that is mixed into the magic powers flowing into the Heavenly Altar were all from Shinjuku Branch and Meguro Branch of the Exorcist Bureau.

"Goddamned that guy!" he scolded in a low voice.

"Princess! Princess! Can you hear me?"

Yashamaru called out to his mistress, yet Takiko did not respond. She closed her eyes and stood there swaying lightly, as if she had lost her entire mass. She was already god descended half way—in a state of being possessed. Yashamaru clenched his teeth, "Kumomaru!" he called out viciously.

"Stop the ceremony for now! Move away from the technique!"

After receiving the order, Kumomaru added a new technique into the [Tensou Chifu Ritual] that is still in progress. The flow of magic powers completely stopped, the waves of aura stabilised, but it did not disappear. The ley lines connecting the sky and earth remained in its shape, if this ley line were to break, the ritual would completely collapse. Of course, to let the ritual stop half way was quite a difficult task, but Kumomaru succeeded.

"Chief? What is going on?"

Kumomaru was confused after being expelled from the technique, rushing to the side of Yashamaru, Kurahashi and Miyachi went over with a stern look as well, only Akino did not understand what had happened, continued looking at the altar from a distance.

On the other hand, Yashamaru, like Takiko, is still in the [Tensou Chifu Ritual] technique, "It's Tsuchimikado Harutora." He said hatefully.

"He pulled one over us. Last night and the previous night, Tsuchimikado Harutora didn't just attack the branches, even in the detection network-- he had placed magic techniques inside the [Morito] units in the branches!"

Inside the net shaped [Early Spiritual Disaster Detection Network], the [Morito] in the main branch and in the other branches are important rely points. Harutora had hide techniques in the two locations that would activate after reacting to [Tensou Chifu Ritual], the area that it had spread has perhaps reached more than half of the Heavenly Altar.

Compared to his angry comrades that were clenching their teeth, Kurahashi nodded his head, remained calm, it's just that his expression was rather stern.

"Is there any counter measure to this?"

"Even though it would be tedious, but we could only use the most direct method to solve it. We first have to undo the opponent's technique, then let this undoing technique flow through the cycle, of course the Heavenly Altar must retain its shape.

"Wait a minute, should we move princess to somewhere safe?"

"No way." Yashamaru immediately rejected Kumomaru's view. "The aura of the Heavenly Altar had stabilised, it would not move unless we undo it, this ritual would end once we undo it, so we can only proceed in this kind of situation."

Harutora surely wouldn't think that they would be wiped out with this single attack. Even though the Heavenly Altar was contaminated, but Yashamaru prevented the situation from getting worse as well, the opponent would logically expect for this kind of development. To be honest, the aim of Harutora setting this trap, is to create this sticky situation.

In other words—

"Kurahashi, the princess is the target of the opponent, by making princess unable to move from here. He is coming. I cannot move, but I will start undoing the spell immediately, you must defend this place in the meantime, start preparing with Kumomaru and Miyachi against the incoming attack."

☆

Tokyo Shinjuku.

There were three shadows looking into the east on the rooftop of a tall building that prohibits anyone from entering.

A single eye Onmyouji dressed in black.

A single arm oni dressed in a suit with the left sleeve swaying with the wind.

A young fox demon with animal ears and tail.

Five eyes looked towards the ley line at a distance that extends straight towards the setting sun from the ground. That was a pillar that connects the sky and the earth, it is also the bridge that connects the under world and the secular world. At a rather early stage, they had already notice that the opponents would use the detection network for [Tensou Chifu Ritual], the question was where would Takiko be at. They had thought of a few locations, Souma seemed to have used one of them.

That location is at Kanda Shrine.

"They fell into the trap." Oni laughed.

"Of course." The Onmyouji answered.

"To remove the wild scheme of those guys, the only way is to remove the miko, that is their lifeline, they are well aware of this as well."

"That was why you let them prepare till the last moment, pulling them up to the surface, waited until they are nearly finished with their goal before you made your move…"

The Onmyouji did not reply to all the Oni's words.

Even if there was no need to consider about Onmyou Agency, they still have to prepare the most important ritual on their own. Because of this, they had no time to care about other things, resulting in a chance for the others, allowing Amami to come forward about the exposition, for Harutora to lay a trap. [Time] isn't just tight for the attacking side.

It's just, "What happens next is key." The Onmyouji swayed his black cloak after finish speaking. He stepped on the ground with a [knock] sound.

"Being affected by the magic technique casted by us, they cannot use the ley line, it also means there is no way of using Far Step. Moreover… the opponents are, of course, prepared for attacks."

Onmyouji spoke calmly, he then turned his head to the side.

"… Kon."

"Yes."

The one that answered this call was a young girl.

After a moment of hesitation, "No problems, really?"—Onmyouji did not ascertain this with her, "I will leave it to you." But rather with such an order.

The young girl was waiting for him to display such an attitude, to be reserved or being considerate would hurt her pride instead. The young girl placed the order from her master in her heart, displaying with pride and determination, she forms a hand seal.

Lag appeared on her entire body, the frozen powers were released, transforming her into her original look.

A coquettish lady in her prime of youth appeared before them.

Having an extremely unstable aura, she had remained in younger form with her powers frozen for the past few days, concentrating on recovering. A guardian that was suppose to protect her master originally, in the end, not only she wasn't useful, she even burdened her master. She had much regret about her own inability during this period of time— now a chance to redeem herself has arrived.

Her master had finally made up his mind due to how things had developed. He was ashamed to let his unstable guardian to take such a risk, however, if they lose the battle, she [will not stay alive] is a fact as well. They must win this battle, for the sake of victory, he is willing to use any methods.

This is a group battle.

Kurahashi and Souma side must have the same idea as well.

"—Let's go."

A cold declaration.

If the others had heard this, they would surely tremble in fear. Regardless of his voice, attitude or aura, all of them carry a bone chilling strength.

Oni revealed his fangs as he smiled, the body of the fox demon trembled. The clothes of the Onmyouji whipped, rushing to the battlefield along with the two guardians.

Cemetery or Memorial. The four gods refer to Azure Dragon of the East, the Vermilion Bird of the South, the White Tiger of the West, and the Black Turtle of the North. The two guardians of the Zuijinmon are named as 丰磐间户神 and 栉磐间户神, most people normally refer them as Minister of the Left and Minister of the Right. This temple is an actual temple located in Akihabara. I am unsure if this is the correct translation of 日铎 and 月铎 as there isn't any pictures or information online. Japanese Raws of these terms has no hiragana for assisted reading.

Chapter end