Volume 18: Star-Spangled Martial Law– Trans-Am, Chapter 4: New Yorker ― G-3’s Gang

Chapter 4: New Yorker ―― G-3’s Gang

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The motorcade then pulled past the Empire State Building the giant gorilla had clung to in the film『King Kong』…Nearby, a relatively newly constructed skyscraper reached up to pierce the sky.

Up above the Gothic style entryway, a large, stylised set of『G』and『III』letters combined and arranged in a logo.

「Is this… possibly…」

I said as I got out of the Mitsuoka Orochi, and looking at the logo that I was pointing at, G-3 said:

「It’s my building.」

I thought so…!

「You, own a building in Manhattan…!?」

「They just keep popping up one after another. I thought it’d be fun to have one myself.」

「You did it for fun. That’s really in line with: ‘In all Heaven and Earth, I alone am worthy of honour’.」

「That’s my favourite quote!」

His followers in tow, I entered the building behind G-3. Above the entryway, the Stars and Stripes and Circle of the Sun fluttered side by side. I didn’t need to ask. G-3 must have ordered them to hoist them in order to welcome me.

Although we are siblings, G-3 and I have different nationalities… With my sister-in-law, Patra, an Egyptian, we’re becoming quite cosmopolitan. The Tohyama Family, that is.

Thinking that as I walked along, behind me:

「It’s been a while since I’ve been to G-3 Tower!」

Kaname said, giving a predictable name for the building as she skipped along, pulling Reki by the hand.

Inside the entrance hall with the ridiculously high ceiling–

In the floor by the walls there were a lot of bronze hand prints embedded.1

Next to each of them, I saw there was a name and brief biography engraved…they must be from all the American heroes G-3 is friendly with. My brother has a lot of connections. Among superhumans.

「Oh! Is that Batto Hino’s hand print?2 Do you know him?」

Hino is one of America’s most famous armed detectives. He was an anonymous soldier that never showed his face, and his ex-wife was Japanese. His daughter was a first-year enrolled in ASSAULT and one of Ranbyou’s favourites.

「Yeah. I can’t say 100% I can beat him in a fight, but I think of him as a friend.」

「Why do you always talk about everyone so condescendingly, and… huh? The floor over here…」

KINJI TOHYAMA– My name was on a nameplate. But there was no handprint.

「We’ll get your handprint later, Aniki. Your name will be immortalised here as a hero.」

「You’ve got to be joking! No I’m not; I’m a normal Butei. Get rid of that nameplate!」

I rounded on my younger brother…

「Welcome back, Third! Since you’ve been gone, the NSA and CIA have been snooping around.」

–A young girl’s voice interrupted, cutting me short.

Turning around, I saw the familiar face of one of G-3’s subordinates… It was a girl with straight-cut bangs, silver hair, and eyes with mis-matched eye colours.

「Thanks for keeping a lookout, Luca. It’s probably Mash’s minions sniffing around. I don’t like it, but there’s nothing to be done.」

Entering the building and removing her scarf, Tsukumo addressed the beautiful Caucasian girl, Luca… She has uniform length hair and butterfly-shaped hair ornaments on the left and right sides of her head. She also wore a butterfly designed choker, a two-layer, short flared skirt, and a knee-length coat with a lining in a girlish print…

The overall impression was that of a stylishly dressed child. But her expression was gloomy.

「–Aren’t you the classic example of ‘gloomy’?」

Her blue and red eyes looking at me, I was shocked.

Did I just… say it out loud? I had to think about it.

…The uncanny Luca, joined everyone else, except Angus who went to deal with the cars, and headed toward the elevator in the lobby.

There, striking an imposing stance with arms folded, was a portrait of G-3. You seem to think highly of yourself, G-3. He even decorated the place with his own flattering picture. It looked like a blown-up picture of the JPEG he uploaded on Facebook at my parent’s home. But he was cross-dressing.

**********************************************

Most of the floors of G-3 Tower seem to be rented out to various business enterprises, and the rent alone must be a sizable sum. And so the rich become richer.

The entire top floors from 113-115 are the residence of the『G-3 League』. In total, there were 52 rooms, and the top floor was a penthouse for G-3’s exclusive use. It’s something I don’t understand.

Each of the rooms were sets of suites in multiple styles with high ceilings that didn’t make any sense Entering one of the 3 dining rooms–

「「Yippie!」」

Both Kaname and Tsukumo chorused this baby-ish English cry, dashing to the table. There was a mound of hamburgers, cheeseburgers, Big Macs, and Quarter Pounders, apparently purchased by Luca. There were also bucket-like XL colas, milkshakes, and cake-like biscuits, and apple pies…

Each taking a seat, the girls began to eat all of them.

…It seems that what this country lacks the most is nutritional education…

The large-sized French fry was twice the size of that in Japan, and Reki was silently imbibing the scent. I could already see the bad influence America was having on her.

「Aniki, you should eat too. An army marches on its stomach, after all.」

Angus came up behind him, pulled out his chair, and G-3 threw himself down into and started eating his Big N’ Tasty burger.

「Well, I do like McDonalds. But should you really eat it 3 times a day? It’s a bad example for Kaname.」

I scolded him, but I was hungry, so I ate a Big Mac–and, as I thought, it tasted the same as in Japan. There wasn’t an authentic taste to be experienced, but on the other hand, it was reassuring. It provided a sense of stability.

Making the rounds to everyone besides G-3, Angus took a small meal to match his slight frame, along with one for Atlas, and Collins checked the halal markings on his meal before eating… Each meal was suited to the person.

「So when are we going? To get the ruruirokane…」

I asked G-3 while Angus poured me a black coffee, from a Syphon coffee maker–

「To get everyone rested, re-supplied, and service the Sagittarius it will take 3 days. We’ll get started on your personalised armour tonight, and you’ll have it in 3 days.」

Despite the fact that he used an abbreviation, I knew what he meant because he tapped the Neue Ange armour he wore on his shoulder with a finger. He… wants me to wear that? No way!

***************************************************************

Although I didn’t want to wear it, I didn’t want to be the one to tell my younger brother that, and so after the meal, Angus took Reki and I, the pair of newbies, to his rooms.

The antique style furniture was well-chosen and it looked like an office, and…

「Third-sama has some spare equipment, and you are his brother. It should require just minor alterations.」

He temporarily fitted boot-like leg armour, and some arm armour like Hiraga-san’s Orochi-kai on to me.

Moving like a first class tailor, Angus took the measurements of my limbs and torso. In terms of Butei High, he is seemingly able to fulfil both the roles of LOGI and AMDO.

But this armour… is incredible! It was as light as a feather and did nothing to restrict movement. And yet, it was completely bulletproof.

We also conducted a test where a 9 mm bullet was fired at the armour on the back of the hand, and I didn’t even feel anything.

The bulletproof clothing has a micro-spring structure made of twisted nano-Kevlar that operates on the principle of dispersing the shock of a bullet’s impact, but it appears able to disperse it with a much higher efficiency.

「How is it, Aniki?」

「What a cheat! This thing is incredible!」

「Your very existence is a cheat, Aniki!」

I didn’t like the armour and reacted as such, but G-3 was in high spirits.

「But what about concealability…? It can’t really be hidden under clothes.」

I still didn’t like the Metal Hero-like look of it, and in response to this unreasonable request:

「–As you wish. However, it would lower the strength.」

Pecking away on a scientific calculator, Angus replied.

「How much? Would Aniki be able to take a technique like my『Meteor』?」

G-3 asked from beside me, his face drawing itself into a grin. It looked like a wry smile.

I cannot say exactly. I can guarantee it up to a speed of Mach 2.」

That’s plenty. Ouka is only Mach 1.

「My Aniki pulls all kinds of insane moves. Make it thin, but don’t let it’s performance drop.」

In response to G-3 even more harsh request, Angus replied:

「As you wish.」

Bowing his head. A reliable man. This is the kind of follower you want.

「…Hey, Reki. I know you like it, but take that thing off. When you wear that, I’m not joking, it makes me uncomfortable because I don’t know where you are.」

I said to the empty space within the room– *Zzzt!* *Zzzt!*…

Accompanied by the crackling sound, the raincoated figure of Reki materialised next to me.

「…」

Silent as ever, her red eyes peered out at me from beneath the hood…

Angus had given her a raincoat style Metamaterial Ghillie suit–It looked like she had taken a liking to the favourite disguise used by G-3’s followers.

When I asked about it, this optical ghillie coat she was using employed Reflective Projection Technology (RPT) that was originally a Japanese technology. The wrecked Galleon was covered with it, that is nanoscale photopores that changed hue to match whatever background was behind it.

If I had to give it a name, I’d call it Chameleon Reki. When she wore it, her already microscopic presences would vanish entirely. With this, Reiki might be able to get her revenge on Headmaster Midorimatsu.

However, disappearing and then suddenly reappearing set my heart pounding in a bad way, so I banned her from wearing it while near me for a while.

****************************************************************

Taking off the armour, I was released from Angus’s room–

It was too early to sleep, so I decided to try to come to an understanding with G-3’s followers, with whom I would be shortly risking my life.

However, I didn’t know who stayed in which room, so I just started opening them.

Peering into the first one–

「Oh! Kinji-kun! Good evening!」

It was the real Ironman who fought in his P. A. A., the Caucasian–Atlas.

Atlas’ room was setup like a sports gym. Running around the room in a set of shorts and a T-shirt, he looked like a huge, white, American football or rugby player.

He’s not a bad guy by any stretch of the imagination… but I wanted to run. He’s the athletic type.

「Can I interrupt you for a moment?」

「By all means! Come in! You should join me in running!」

「Well, I really don’t want to run… But is this a picture of you in uniform?」

I said, picking up a framed picture from off a cabinet stand–

It looked like a bit younger Atlas, but the one in the picture had the same flushed, smiling face. In his hand was a medal in a display box that was inscribed with valedictorian. Also displayed in the photograph was an older man that seemed to be his father holding a All-School Boxing Champ belt at Atlas’ waist.

「Sure is! I graduated from Westpoint, was appointed a second lieutenant, and was assigned to the 7th special forces group under Special Operations Command. I was the team commander, and it was during my time there that I ran into G-3-kun. You’ve got me all nostalgic.」

Atlas’ smile stretched across his face, exposing all of his teeth– You left Westpoint to come to Japan? Wasn’t this the elite, best of the best unit that General Douglas MacArthur commanded?3

He was assigned the command of Green Berets. He must have been one of the youngest CO’s of the 7th SFG–They were tasked with the difficult task of drug trafficking in Central and South America and must have skipped a few steps up the chain of command.

Just now, Atlas put a slight emphasis in the words『ran into』…

He must have received orders and gone to kill him. G-3.

Maybe when G-3 was engaging in his hobby of disrupting the cartels, the 7th SFG thought that their job was being stolen, so the assassination order was issued.

「How was it when you『ran into』my brother?」

「It was incredible! I fought him in the jungle of Ecuador, but no matter what our bullets never reached each other, so I proposed we decide things in a boxing match. He laughed loudly and accepted.」

What idiots…! Atlas, and you too G-3…!

「I drowned in a sea of blood. For the first time in my life, I was completely defeated and suffered a setback. Defeated, he asked me『Death or Prisoner, make a choice.』and I answered『Kill me』–Then he said『Good answer. I’ll kill you.』–Then he gouged out a hole in the ground right next to my head with his fist.」

「…So instead of killing you… he took you prisoner?」

「No. I was killed, in a sense. When my eyes went wide, G-3-kun said to me『The person you have been until yesterday is dead. Now you’re reborn. I recognise your strength, so become one of my superhero followers』–Then he took my hand and showed me a smiling face. I was inspired. And I thought: what an entirely amazing person…!」

The hell…! But when I’m in Hysteria Mode, I say all kinds of things to girls, so I’m not really one to talk, but hearing G-3’s words gave me goose bumps.

A stubborn and serious man was disarmed by those words.

After losing to G-3, Atlas dropped out of an elite military career. And he did it all for my brother.

In any case, Atlas…was recognised for his strength by G-3 and joined the front-line force of the G-3 League, it would seem. And judging from that story and the fight on Omotesandou…

His offensive and defensive power are both high, and he was a tough adversary even separated from his unit.

If Atlas were a heavily armoured vanguard in his P.A.A., even if his enemy defeated him, they would be exhausted. And if G-3 were there, then there would be no one who could stand against them…

Even for me in Shinagawa…could Altas and G-3 prepared a two-phased assault. I thought back to last year’s life or death ordeal–

「Boy!」

Calling Atlas, a plump, blonde grandmother entered the room. Who is this…?

「Mama!」

His already bright face began to beam as he rushed over to the source of the voice, an old woman with coke-bottle glasses–She wore a long, floral print skirt, and he swept her up into his arms.

「Oh! Boy! That business you work for keeps you awfully busy. You must be so tired! Look here, I’ll make you a big meat pie!」

「Whoa! Thanks, Mama!」

That… must be Atlas’ mother. What an age to have a child! Because of that, Atlas must have grown up spoiled and developed some kind of Oedipus Complex.

「Now then, I wanted to talk to you about this formal marriage interview. Look at this mobile phone picture. How about this little miss? You’d have awfully cute blonde babies!」

「M-Mama! It’s all too fast!」

He answered with a forced laugh. All of a sudden, Atlas had suddenly become totally weak–

I have almost no memories of my own mother, but I’m envious, and I left the room behind.

**************************************************************** 「…Were you a US Navy SEAL? 」

「Why, yes! Why do you want to know?」

A large number of computer displays arranged both vertically and horizontally on a wide, black desk, Collins answered, wearing a heart patterned suit.

This room–though smartly designed smelled sickeningly of men’s cologne.

「What are you doing there? Trading stocks?」

「Yes and No. I have investments, but I mainly deal in Credit Default Swaps.

「I don’t understand… Can you make money on those? Isn’t the subprime American mortgage loan bubble collapsing?」

「There are ways to make money from a recession, dear. I just made 3.6 million today.」

「I-In such a short time… you made 3.6 million Yen?」

「That’s dollars, darling. That would be about 300 million Yen. When the children all retreat, it’s time to leave it to a US Securities Analyst.」

Flashing diamond studded earring and wearing Chanel sunglasses despite the fact that he’s indoors– Collins used an eye-tracking system on the monitors and used his right and left hands independently to type on separate keyboards. He must be taking in the information for multiple financial charts and tools, executing trades, and carrying on this conversation all simultaneously.

What’s more, he has the fighting power of a Navy SEAL. That was the kind of follower G-3 had.

「…You’re a dependable man, aren’t you, Collins.」

「Wouldn’t you say Third-sama is more dependable than I? It’s a bother, so he leaves the money matters to me.」

What a smart bunch they are… even in their spare time, they make money almost like a hobby in their spare time. I was dripping sweat working as a part-timer in the convenience store for 640 Yen per hour.

I didn’t want to disrupt Collins, so I stayed silent…

I then began categorising the members of the G-3 League in my head.

G-3 was in charge of bringing people together. As the strongest and most capable person, he directs the organisation with his charisma. He is the most important part in this ideal team structure.

Angus was the leader’s butler who took care of the team’s property, daily necessities, and transport.

Tsukumo seemed to be in charge of personal security in Sugamo. She appeared to be of the same race as Tamamo and likely had been serving as an advisor in matters related to irokane, as well.

Atlas was deployed on the front lines, as well as Collins who also served the dual role of capital funds procurement.

From what I saw last year, Kaname was in charge of spying, patrols, and subversive activities. In addition, Kaname also served the role of a lesser G-3 and could take command in the unlikely event that it is required. Life limiter–With G-3’s medical issue, this allowed for the delegation of authority so that the team doesn’t get wiped out all at once.

Kaname has come to stay with me, but if G-3 eats that special tomato, he’ll be fine and it’s nothing to worry about.

The G-3 League… is perfect.

If given the opportunity to form a better team, I couldn’t.

They weren’t any here, but I as looked around the floor, I felt there were more members…

It was a small military–using the Combined Arms4 approach and several extreme personnel. They each had their specialty and worked together organically to function effectively.

There was a drastic difference between them and the typically useless assembly of Baskerville where I was the ex-pushover leader.

However… That little girl Luca was a bit mysterious.

She had been left behind as a defensive rear-guard, but she didn’t seem too strong.

There was no way she was G-3’s lover, so she must be some kind of ESPer.

If we’re going to be fighting together, I should really make sure and find out.

**************************************************************

I knocked on a door that had the fancy, decorative script『Комнатеот Луки』5 that I couldn’t read on it…

According the Collins, this is definitely where Luca-chan’s room is, but my knock went ignored.

However, the door wasn’t shut all the way and half locked… inside, I could tell someone was there.

That brat! Was she ignoring me?

I didn’t like that.

Alright, then in retaliation for calling me ‘gloomy’, I’ll just go in.

I even had the Metamaterial Ghillie I had confiscated from Reki.

It had a switch inside the transparent raincoat, and I pulled the hood and stepped into a spacious bathroom to make sure I had disappeared–

Then suddenly I felt sick as I entered the white and pink covered room that smelled entirely girlish and feminine.

Actually, thinking about it, they would hear my breathing, but I could traumatise Luca by having her witness vomit seemingly appearing from an alternate dimension. I didn’t want to go overboard on the revenge, so I forced down the hamburger by force of will.

She must be a collector because on the walls and in several cabinets, there were wristwatches and pocket watches from all over the world…

There were several clearly defined areas and a door leading to a smaller room.

I heard some kind of voice from inside, and I entered while invisible–

…!

…I just barely was able to restrain a shriek as I stepped inside…

There was a soft, canopy bed inside what looked like a bedroom–

「You can remove the ribbon here so that it doesn’t pass below the navel, Tsukumo. It comes off.」

「Depending on the bra, it can actually improve your posture.」

「This one holds my breasts in the cup from armpit to chest. Even if I Banzai, I’m OK and they don’t come out. Yeah, it’s very cute too.」

Luca (in pastel pink), Tsukumo (in pastel yellow), Kaname (in pastel white), and Reki (in pastel green)…!

They were all in their underwear!

To any outside observers, the average age appeared to be 14, and the 4 girls were putting their vibrant skin on full display in a just about nude state. Why!?

From the large walk-in closet, I deduced that Luca was the kind of person with a lot of clothes, and, in getting ready for a fancy party in a few days, they were helping her figure out what to wear–but the reason doesn’t really matter! I have to stop the blood flow as soon as possible!

2,3,5,7,9… 9 isn’t a prime number! Augh…! Come on…!

Of all the places to hysterise! It was a fantasy of every other boy『What they would do if they were invisible』and imagining all the indecent acts they would get up to. These were 4 innocent, beautiful girls. And one of them was my little sister!

Frightened and confused–

I looked up on the bed, and there a field of women’s underwear bloomed. It was like a field of flowers…!

It resembled the colourful field from the Hong Kong lingerie shop, but these flowers were much more frilly and girlish. Despite that point in my favour, the flowers were a bit more lively and fresh. Even so– these 4 beautiful girls were dressed only in their underwear…!

What I mean to say is that each of these flower are as dangerous as a super-dreadnought, regardless of what they are or are not wearing.

Reki’s Shimamura bras, Kaname’s Shima Shima bras, and Tsukumo’s sarashi-like default choices littered the bed. Th-this is too dangerous!

The inside of the Metamaterial Ghille hood is equipped with an infrared display, and I could distinguish the freshly discarded articles… and there were a lot of them.

That means that they were going to be taking off the lingerie they were currently wearing…!

–I have to get out of here! 「

Hey, the door’s half open.」

Tsukumo said, reaching out to close off my only path of retreat.

Adopting the posture of the C from the song YMCA, I just barely was able to avoid her as she reached over to close it.

N… No good…!

Although I was transparent, and it thus had no practical effect, I paled… but Tsukumo, standing next to me in her lemon-yellow lingerie–

「Huh?」

She raised her head and sniffed.

With a rustle, the hair on her kitsune ears stood up.

「…Something… smells like… Kinji Tohyama…?」

Your nose is pretty keen, Tsukumo.

「Kinji-san is there, Tsukumo-san.」

Even Reki noticed.

This was like the time that Riko locked me in the locker in the girl’s locker room all over again. Except this time, we’re in New York.

「…Uh… I’m sorry. I heard voices but never intended to do this–」

Glowering at the location from which my voice came, Luca’s expression told me she hadn’t heard me…

…*Whoosh!*…

Her uniform length hair flared.

Then her blue eye took on the same shade of red as the other.

Like witnessing an angry Ohmu6, the blood flow of Hysteria Mode froze–

–*Thump!* *Ba!* *Ba!* *Ba!* *Ba!* *Ba!*

I felt a series of impacts on me head, chest, and abdomen in a barrage of blows!

Ow! Ooow! Luca didn’t even lay a finger on me! What the heck!?

Knocked back into the wall, the Metamaterial Ghille raincoat came off partially–and Luca who stood with her arms crossed at her waist angrily:

「I can’t forgive you for stupidly saying I had thin arms.」

–She read my thoughts.

She must be the one in the G-3 League… in charge of Stealth…!

This must be something like the technique『Reading the human heart』that Julia-senpai from SSR who trained Aria in telekinesis used, but contactless. It probably only works when she is concentrating on the person.

「That’s just about right, but you wouldn’t really understand. I studied at the Moscow University Parapsychology Academy since I was 12 years old, and the Russian Federation’s Federal Security Service–the former KGB ordered me to fight Third. I am one of his followers now, but I chased him down to some of the worst places imaginable.」

You skipped up all the way to university at age 12? That’s incredible, Luca! You’re a genius! And you’re so beautiful too! Heaven has given you two gifts!

「I’ll know if it was on purpose.」

…So what should I do?

「Just obey me. Now, Tohyama. I’ve given you leeway because you are Third’s brother, but there are limits.」

She was calm and collected, but at the heart of it, her personality was like Aria’s–

With the raincoat half off, part of me was invisible and others were not, creating a surreal image…then without warning, I was picked up by the scruff of the neck to be scolded.

「Y-your younger sister is here! You–beast!」

Her tail sticking out from the top of her underwear, the real beast Tsukumo declared–delivering a high kick to my face.

「Onii-chan, you’re so lewd. If you wanted to see them, you just had to say so~!」

Looking happy for some reason, Kaname pinched my cheek and glanced at the P-fiber that had taken on the shape of a heart.

「…」

Reki assigned the blame to me by looking at me silently with a cold glare.

「My punishment is a sentence of Karmic Castration–bad luck will follow you, and you will forever lose 1 chance to flirt with a woman. In its place, you will experience 1 stroke of good luck in our military operation.」

I blinked my eyes at her several times as she delivered this sentence in a cool tone, but rather than a punishment, for me this was a reward. The idiot.

Seeming to not have read that though in my mind, the fancy door opened like an automatic door and I was deposited outside with a *Plop!*– falling on my head.

*************************************************************

Although I tried to catch up on sleep on the Sagittarius, I was, as expected, jet-lagged on the first day. It was because the time difference between Tokyo and New York was a negative 14 hours. It was almost a complete reversal of night and day.

So, after connecting with the G-3 League, I went to the spacious living room…

「Onii-chan, your face is red.」

「I was kicked.」

While saying that, I played 501 darts with Kaname and Reki to deal with the drowsiness.

It wasn’t really that fun. Reki naturally took the shortest way, scoring 180, 180, and 141 via a set of 3 triple 20’s, 3 triple 20’s, then a triple 20, triple 19, and double 12, in just 9 darts, and Kaname matched her. It took me about 30 darts to match them.

It was 2100 in New York–

Reki had fallen asleep by the window without a word. She was clutching her knees, as per usual, and her Dragunov sniper rifle. It seems that her biological clock has a corrective reset function.

When the darts stopped keeping me awake, I disassembled my Beretta to perform simple maintenance in order to stay awake.

Then Kaname came over to help me.

「Onii-chan, why do you keep the 92-type Beretta? Why not the 93R?」

「There aren’t that many of those guns in Japan. The main body and its unique parts are expensive, the time between required servicing is short, and it isn’t very concealable. The 92 has been used in more than a few conflicts in the world and it’s been shown to be reliable. On top of that, the full-auto modification has about the same performance… *Yawn!*…」

My words mingled with a yawn, then–

A man with a similar face to mine and a larger, more muscular body appeared and yawned.

「Aniki, go to sleep. No one except my comrades ever come here, so I don’t have a guest room on this floor, so you can sleep in my room.」

Ah, is that G-3? I didn’t recognise him for a moment because he had taken off his face paint and let his hair down.

**************************************************************

Once we reached the penthouse that was full of a varied assortment of sculptures and paintings–

G-3 gave me a robe-like set of pyjamas, and he laid down in a set of black briefs.

My drowsiness had reached a maximum, and I laid down next to my brother who was fast asleep on the huge bed that could have slept an elephant…

Then I awoke at 1000 to the most unpleasant sound of a spatula striking a frying pan in some kind of『little sister alarm』.

「Moooorning, Oniiiii-chaaaan!」

Forced to wakefulness by a sailor-suited Kaname, I was forced to dress while drowsy…

「You sleep so late, Aniki! The early bird gets the worm! It’s an American saying.」

In the morning sun, G-3 was doing push-ups on the granite floor.

Stripped to the waist, I could see the joint between his shoulder and his artificial left hand… It looks like he is tuning the calibration of strength between his right and left arms as well as engaging in calisthenics.

The injuries he got from Mash hadn’t healed completely, but he had made a considerable recovery. That’s what you’d expect from a Tohyama man, we’re able to take a lot of punishment.

Standing by the wall in the spacious room, Tsukumo held a change of clothes for G-3, ready to hand them to him. Despite the fact that she had kicked me yesterday, she showed no restraint looking at G-3’s half-naked body.

Huffing in satisfaction and breathing wildly through her nose, her eyes turned into hearts.

「Today’s Sunday. We’ve already been out and back again, but shouldn’t you go to church, Aniki?」

「Church?」

「I’m Catholic. Atlas is Protestant. Luca is Russian Orthodox. Angus is Jewish. Collins is Muslim. Tsukumo is Shinto.」

「If I had to say… I would say that my beliefs are a mix of Shinto and Buddhism. But I’m not that religious. No more than the average Japanese person, anyway.」

「I don’t get it at all. Japan is a strange country.」

G-3 said as he pushed himself up onto one finger–suspending himself above the floor.

Then he let himself down and took a towel from Tsukumo with a rustle to mop up his sweat.

Much the same as their religion, G-3’s followers– were a microcosm of America and a veritable salad bowl.

The Asian G-3, the West European Atlas, the African Collins, Middle Eastern Angus, and the Eastern European Luca. Their races were Mongoloid, Caucasian, Black, and Other (Kitsune).

「Hey, Aniki! Those clothes suit you pretty well, huh? They’re mine.」

Taking armour from Tsukumo, he thumbed in my direction…

「?」

Looking at my own reflection in the window…. Wow that’s bright! I fell back onto the bed in shock.

It was something that Kaname always wanted me to wear, and G-3 had worn in Narita–

It was a multi-toned rock star-like suit in white and gold.

「Wh-what the heck! You’ve got to be joking! Give me back my uniform! This is the kind of flashy clothes you’d wear!」

「They were originally John Travolta’s! It won’t be a problem to wear just for today, will it? Just for a job we have later today. Yeah, I gave your bulletproof uniform to Angus earlier for cleaning. You’ll get it back tomorrow」

「A job…? What is it?」

「You look great, Onii-chan! Fufu!」

「You’re laughing, Kaname!」

I aimed a drop kick with both my white, bell-bottomed feet at Kaname, and G-3 retreated…

There really being no help for it, I said:

「Well, the clothes are pretty warm.」

In a change of opinion, I headed into the living room.

Once there, looking outside the window– I saw Reki standing on the terrace.

As if she was engaged in some kind of telepathy, she turned her face toward the Manhattan sky with her eyes closed…

「…What are you doing? I’m used to your usual strange behaviour, but you aren’t sleeping while standing up are you? You’ll catch a cold.」

Being cold, I only opened the door halfway to ask about her strange behaviour. 「I was listening to the voice of the Wind.」

Turning around to look at me, she had no absolutely reaction to my clothes.

This lack of any response, in contrast, is actually pretty mentally devastating. Even Riko would point and laugh at me, and that would be better than this.

But well…

Ever since the time we parted at Tokyo Station, it seems that Reki is back in contact with『The Wind』.

Because I didn’t want to deal with it, I ignored it in Ikebukuro and Sugamo, but I had started to suspect something.

Because we had come to New York to deal with something related to irokane, it all fell into place.

In Kyoto, I heard from Shirayuki and Kazayuki that Reki was the ririirokane miko.

Back in the spring, at The Wind’s direction, she watched me, Aria, and Shirayuki like a hawk–all people with a connection to irokane– despite the fact that there were S-ranked Butei in that list.

But it was still all half guesswork, so:

「When you say『The Wind』do you mean… ririirokane?」

I voiced my suspicions–

…*Nod!*

Reki nodded.

–I knew it!

Based on that information… I pieced together information I had learned in Hysteria Mode.

At the Hotogi shrine, they said that『ririirokane hates human emotions』.

That is to say:『hihiirokane loves the violent emotions of love and war』and possesses the totally opposite nature.

Reki continuing to live life with a total lack of emotion fits with her role as miko for ririirokane.

Aria’s passionate personality suited her awakened hidan.

There seems to be some kind of symmetry here.

…And that likely means…

Ririirokane and hihiirokane are in direct opposition. Like magnets.

When we left Tokyo, she reminded me on the last day of summer vacation–when it was just the two of us on the rooftop of INQUESTA, she said:

「You shouldn’t get too close.」

Ordering me to keep away from Aria.

Back at the monorail station, she had stabbed Aria with a bayonet, just to keep us apart.

Reki had wanted to get close to me, replacing Aria in some kind of bride-snatching operation.

But as a result of such actions…

Her emotions had begun to bud, and she had betrayed ririirokane and allowed Aria and I to continue our partnership. Reki had accepted that.

「Whatever happens in the end, will happen.」

She said, seemingly resigned to the fact.

–As a result, Aria had become possessed.

Reki knew that would happen. As someone with control over ririirokane that was in direct opposition to hihiirokane.

『The Wind』had told her that.

In that case, then there could be absolutely no doubt. Therefore…

The Wind–ririirokane had it’s own will. What’s more, it was in direct opposition to hihiirokane.

What it wanted was unclear, but based on the hihiirokane and the Scarlet Goddess relationship… she definitely exists. The Cyan Goddess.

That is how it is.

According to Kanae-san’s theory there may be a Sapphire Goddess living inside ruruirokane, the third kind of irokane, that we were trying to steal–

According to Reki’s account, that is very probable. That’s what she’s saying.

There was that kind of irokane and this kind of irokane. There were all kinds of mysteries around us.

『Fate』– I mulled over my Nii-san’s words from Nogizaka, and Reki and I locked eyes in Manhattan– and I…

「…」

Because of the gaudy clothing, the moment lack all seriousness.

Well, that might just suit me.

It wasn’t my destiny to look cool.

*****************************************************

While we were taking brunch, I received a message from Aria.

It seems that she arrived in London safely, and there was a picture attached of her in Baker Street Station on the Underground making an *Ahem!* gesture with her hand against her non-existent chest. On the wall behind her, there was a silhouette of her grandfather, the 19th century English national hero, Sherlock Holmes. It looked like she was bragging a bit.

But she looked well, and that relieved me slightly–

Just after noon, I went with G-3 on his『job』. Still wearing the fancy suit.

G-3 was wearing a Judge Dredd-like costume, but that was alright, since all his followers dressed in a flashy manner today as well.

Angus was wearing a bow tie and tailcoat. Atlas wore a sci-fi armoured helmet, and Collins’ was encrusted with a lot of diamonds. Luca wore a long, silver coat. Kaname was wearing a Yankees blouson with a ballcap on her head, and is that caramel scent…? She was blowing bubble gum bubbles.

「What’s this? Why is everyone dressed up like this?」

I asked G-3 as we passed a supermarket and the others followed in their cars behind us…

「I’m American. I have civic obligations.」

「…?」

「Aniki, it’s an important job. You could say being a hero is the most important job.」

G-3 who had gotten into the Orochi said this joke with a straight face.

It seemed that this costume parade held some kind of sense of duty.

I thought it was going to be far because we had gotten into the car, but we arrived at our destination in 5 minutes.

It was the large public greenspace, Central Park, located at the heart of the planned city of Manhattan.

Why did we even take a car? We could have walked, couldn’t we!?

Braving the winter, performers and hot dog cart vendors spared us a glance as we entered the park. Then we pulled off and stopped at the side of the road near what looked like a somewhat large open space…

Then we were greeted eagerly by a group of children.

Wha!? A lively group of kids assembled–

I soon understood, there were kids scattered here and there missing arms, legs, and a few using canes. They were all poor as well.

Standing in front of these children, G-3 said–

「You gonna keep me waiting, kiddos! I’m back!」

Jumping up, a little black boy–who I noticed had a hearing aid–was scooped up and placed on top of his shoulder.

Then there was a *Hiss!*, and powered by compressed air, G-3’s left prosthetic hand separated at the wrist and flew through the air like a rocket… It grabbed a balloon stuck in a tree that a little girl with thick glasses was staring up at.

Connected to his left arm by a non-combustible wire, he reeled it back in, giving them children a thumbs-up–

Then the children began to badger him, and he started telling stories about defeating villains all over the world.

「In Sumatra there was this drug factory disguised as a shampoo factory, and when I destroyed it, the local mafia set a hungry Sumatran tiger after me. But the tiger hadn’t done anything wrong, and it was an endangered species. So I beat it up with my bare hands!」

…It was quite a violent story, but they all listened with sparkling eyes and the overblown reactions of Americans. They seem to like this kind of story, after all.

G-3 sat there, casually teaching them about the dangers of drugs and the importance of conservation…

I can tell that they are thoroughly enjoying themselves without needing any explanation.

Even though he’s missing an arm, it doesn’t stop G-3 from fighting all over the world, despite his handicap, and he’s these children’s hero.

Even though he’s my idiot little brother, he’s bringing them hope like a Paralympic athlete.

「Hey! Who’s that in the white clothes? Some new henchman?」

A boy in a wheelchair asked, pointing at me–

「Nah! That’s my Aniki! He came from Japan, just to meet you all!」

G-3 said, introducing me with exaggerated gesticulation. Then,

「G-3’s older brother!?」

「Cool!」

「Really!? He even wears clothes like you! Hey, where’s he fought?」

Oh… That’s why he wanted me to wear these flashy clothes.

「I was just in Europe, and Hong Kong before that… but I usually fight in Japan. My boss had pink hair, and she’ll shoot at me for no reason, like a villainous heroine!」

I answered, and with a *Whoa!* , they started looking at me just like they looked at G-3, like a hero. I see. This is the job he was talking about– Pretending to be a superhero for these kids.

「Is your brother stronger than you, G-3?」

The group of kids now crowding around me asked sudden–

「Yeah! Due to a tragic twist of fate, we fought in the sky above Tokyo. But even I wasn’t able to beat my superman Aniki,『Enable』, who can hit back missiles with his bare hands!」

In response to this declaration all the children’s’ eyes widened and they chorused:

「Enable is so coooool!」

It seemed that my popularity among the boys especially had grown…

After that I had a busy time carrying them around on my shoulders, then I took my place as 4th in line in the baseball game they setup on the grass.

With a laugh, Atlas struck out on purpose, taking a full swing at the balls they threw, and as Kaname cheerfully stepped in as the relief pitcher, Reki absently guarded the outfield…

As I waited my turn in the batting order, I asked G-3 a question in Japanese.

「Where do these kids come from?」

「They live in New York, but they go to school over there.」

G-3 pointed–down past the parked motorcade down the street across Central Park. Now that I’m looking at it, it differed from my mental image of a school in Japan…but the ground floor seemed to be a school for the disabled.

「…『G-3 Memorial Elementary School』the sign says. Did you build it?」

「Nah. That school was about to go bankrupt, and I knew the area, so I just lent them some money. Then they just gave it that name. The bastards.」

Slightly embarrassed, G-3 scratched the back of his head…In America, there are a lot of places with names attached to them where someone has done something notable, so it’s not that odd.

–G-3 said it『was about to go bankrupt』, and that can happen in America. I’ve seen it on the newscast.

Unlike Japan, expensive public services receive large subsidies and can run out of money in this strict, money-conscious country.

Because of that, schools and even hospitals, can be ruthlessly shut down in the case of a budget shortage. Even an ambulance won’t carry someone who can’t pay. When prisons run out of money and shut down, they will release the prisoners. It’s easy to imagine what might happen to these kids if their school closed down.7

「No, that’s a good name for the school. You’re really like a teacher.」

「…It really isn’t that big a deal. I’m not a teacher or anything. But… those kids shouldn’t grow up thinking they can’t do anything. Sometimes, they need to be told the opposite. I can do that, and you can too. That’s it.」

「Hmph! Then let’s do that, huh?」

「What’s with the look? Stop grinning! I’ll hit you!」

「What kind of lesson would it be if they saw the two of us brothers fighting?」

I said, defusing the situation as G-3 ground his teeth and turned red….

He’s American, but– the blood of Tohyama no Kin-san, the ally of Justice flows in his veins.

Both my father and Nii-san were too kind to overlook the weak or children in need. He’s the same way.

Despite the fact we were going to fight a terrifying oni, it was good for not only his followers to help take care of these children.

He was kind to those weaker than himself. He might be more like my father than I am.

「Well, anyway. That’s my, uh… Personal principle. Yeah, my personal principle. The principle that–『Everyone should receive an education』. And a good one too! Without an education, people become bad people.」

「Yeah, I agree.」

Despite the fact that I attend Butei High that has the worst education in Japan, I have to support this.

G-3, who was a Genion created by the US military’s whim–he received the best and the hardest educational instruction, but the implication is that everyone should get a basic level of education. That’s what he meant.

「…But recently the teacher of that school has changed. They made the old bat who taught there before retire because of her age… Huh…?」

G-3 continued with slightly bitter expression as he looked toward the school…

「?」

I looked over as well…

From G-3 Memorial Elementary School, a blonde woman who could be identified as a nun by her clothes came out.

The kindly looking sister entered the park–then with quick steps… came over to G-3.

「–Third-san. You’ve come to play with the children again. My deepest thanks.」

The young nun crossed herself. She looked older than us, but she had to be in her teens. Even without makeup of any kind, she was beautiful.

This must have been the person he was talking about. The new teacher. You could tell with how familiar the children are to her.

But standing next to me, G-3 started acting strangely.

「Oh…well…not at all, Sister Maria. Uh…what a pleasant surprise! I just so happened to have some free time, and I was passing by the neighbourhood… that’s all.」

The typically assertive and self-assured G-3…

Right under my very eyes, was on the back foot.

Was he trying to hide his artificial arm and was the face paint meant to hide the injuries to his face?

「Is that so? Then that was truly very fortunate. However… Third-san. Your arm and armour look different than they did before…? Were you fighting someone again?」

With a hard look at G-3, Sister Maria looked disappointed.

「…No, that… well… that is to say, yes, but…」

Oh, I see! G-3 is weak against older women, just like me.

I don’t know how to treat girls my own age, and as for older girls–I don’t have even the vaguest idea how to deal with them. Blood will always tell, brother.

「I always pray that God will protect you. However, I know that in your line of work, you are bound to be hurt. When I consider that… a dark abyss of anxiety wells up inside of me…」

–At this even deeper expression of concern, G-3 looked up at Maria-san…

「Sister Maria loves G-3~!」

A small black girl declared with a grinning face.

Whereupon, *Sproing!* Maria-san sprang into the air, turning red and nervously fanning herself with her hands.

「N-n-no! That is not the case! Th-this gentleman is far, far beyond one such as I…!」

Wha…! I understand now. Hyperventilating, her voice trailed off. Just looking at her makes me feel embarrassed.

It appears to be an unrequited love, and G-3’s head sagged toward the ground…

I sensed some kind of bloodlust as Tsukumo’s ears bristled, and she glowered at Sister Maria from the outfield, I understand. Actually, It seems that G-3 is cursed with bad luck with women. Even here on the other side of the world. Blood tells.

**************************************************************

Returning to G-3 Tower as it became night–I was given a black suit with a vest to wear. It came with a black coat and a black trilby.

Wearing a matching set of clothes and standing next to me, G-3 and I looked exactly like Prohibition Era gangsters.

Angus wore a tuxedo, and Atlas and Collins were decked out in white and purple suits…

「Where are we going this time…?」

「A Hero union party. You’re going to be my escort, Onii-chan.」

Heroes in America have a union? That’s pretty open.

Well, even if it was fine, she was clinging to my arm, so…

「–Kaname, you’re wearing a V-neck dress. Isn’t that showing a bit much of your chest?」

「Oh my! How lecherous for you to look at your sister’s breasts. How indecent.」

In response to this rebuke, she actually pressed herself more against me–wearing an evening dress. She was wearing a Japanese designer, Tadashi Shoji, branded dress, popular among the young socialites of New York. Despite the fact that she was a junior high student, she was wearing a sexy dress that made her look like a hostess in a high-price host club.

Maybe this was the reason why Kaname, Tsukumo, Luca, and Reki, as a group of 4, were trying to find matching underwear last night– the others wore Donna Karen, Nicole Miller and other famously branded evening dresses. Interestingly enough, each of their dresses matched the colour of their hair, was strapless to expose their shoulders, and exposed their back down to their buttocks…

「…You. Aren’t going to wear those dresses are you? You’ll get cold. It’s winter.」

I grumbled an objection to something I should never have seen.

「You ignoramus. This is the dress code, so we have to wear these. For a party held after 6 PM, women are expected to wear revealing formal wear. Without sleeves. Exposing a lot of her chest and back. With a long hemline. Made of lace or satin. With gem or pearl accessories. That’s just common sense.」

Standing next to Tsukumo and using her as a model, Luca indicated each item with a pointed finger, glaring at me while wearing a small, peacock feather hat with a draping tulle.

The fashionable Luca who opened a beauty parlour in her own rooms, also dealt with their make-up as well. Beautiful girls were already a problem for me, but now these super beautiful girls are a super problem. Why do girls use make-up to to double their beauty like some kind of Kaio-ken?8

******************************************************

Heading down Broadway towards Times Square, we headed toward the packed midtown–to 9th Street.

We got out at a white-walled, designer hotel called Hudson New York. Due to his notoriety, the entryway doors were thrown open wide, and we went up the entryway escalator.

Forced to be her escort, I was forced to enter with Kaname on my arm. It was embarrassing.

Tsukumo was anxiously looking toward G-3 with an expression of『Please be my escort』, meanwhile G-3 didn’t notice at all and made a brash entrance alone. How insensitive. Even less than me.

Then… when we entered the party, directly inside the entrance, there was a device to blow air up the girls skirts. This surprising device was an homage to Marylin Monroe’s『The Seven Year Itch.』. Who would make such a thing! I seriously want to hit you.

「…」

Having their skirts blown up was rather risky, so Reki alone was unaffected… The rest of the girls blushed red while smiling. The VIPs of the Hero Union were laughing brightly in the assembly hall. American humour. I don’t understand it.

The party venue was lit softly and also below through frosted glass. There were also many coloured cocktails, wines, beers, and expensive liquor from around the world for the guests. There was a specially constructed kitchen area by one of the walls, and the seemingly skilled chefs were preparing and arranging so much food that it completely filled my field of vision.

The sharp disparity of wealth in this country was quickly understood–

The『rich』are extravagant.

I don’t know how much the union dues are, but they rented a modern hotel and provided an all you can drink bar and buffet.

G-3 is a friend to the weak and a member of the strong.

And these people… I can tell at a glance that they are all strong.

As a union of real American heroes, they were all fit, tough-looking, and good looking. Their fighting strength was naturally high. In the context of Butei High, they exuded the same vibe as MASTERS. As someone who wanted nothing more than a normal life, these were hardly the kind of people I wanted to associate with. If I did, then I‘d definitely be caught up in a fight for Justice.

However, G-3–started greeting people all over the fancy hall in a jovial manner, leaving his subordinates behind:

「The only people here are armed experts that have met a certain level of skill, experience, and proficiencies. There are also a few S-Rank Butei scattered around, so you should be able to make some connections.」

He urged me to join the hero union.

「I really have to decline. Due to my association with a certain S-Rank Butei with 2 names, my lifespan has decreased by 20 years.」

「It really looks like you’re on the outs with the Japanese government, Aniki. If you ever have to flee Japan, you should be ready to take the American battlefield. Everyone here is usually involved in some kind of big fight.」

G-3 stood next to me, saying things I didn’t want to hear, but if no one tries to engage me, I guess I’ll be okay. If they do, I’ll just chatter on about nothing.9  I don’t know anyone anyway.

「That’s Batto Hino over there! I want to get his autograph.」

I said, shaking off G-3… I took out my Butei Handbook to get the autograph of this legendary Butei, but no sooner than I had, he disappeared.

Looking around, Tsukumo had made her way to the dessert nook, and she had gotten a large parfait the size of a vase… Luca was carrying a Cinderella cocktail glass, and Atlas was talking excitedly with each guest, glass of milk in hand, in a way that didn’t suit his body builder image.

Seemingly liking parties, Collins was on the dance floor doing a rendition of a Michael Jackson dance, and Kaname was singing a song, microphone in hand.

…Somehow, this feels like the masquerade ball in Paris.

But this gathering has a more national character. It seems livelier, and it looks like in America, the more energetic and outgoing the person is, the more popular they are. That’s my armchair observation. I don’t fit that model.

In the first place, they are all speaking English, and I don’t know anyone. As for parties, themselves–I don’t like them. At least, not unless it is at a Japanese-style party of friends.

And so I was uncomfortable…

Oh, look over there. One other person is totally isolated.

It’s Reki.

Sitting in a chair with her legs drawn up and shrinking into her seat., she was becoming a wallflower.

Joining her in her solitude, I headed over to her–

「…」

She was in her usual, doll-like state…but what’s this…?

With the evening dress exposing her shoulders, back, and the upper third of her chest, she looked sexy.

The thin silk material was designed to cling to her skin and accentuate the curves of her body… but right now, she looks a bit more feminine than I have seen her before.

Although she isn’t typically fashion conscious, she was wearing make-up, but it had no effect. Her natural face was naturally beautiful, and the soft lighting was in effect–

S-She was very beautiful to look at. No, she was naturally very beautiful.

In a very out-of-character moment, she gave the impression of a『woman』, and I–

「…R-Reki. Are you going to eat something? It’s all-you-can-eat, so holding back will be your loss.」

I said to try to hide my fluster.

「No thank-you.」

As she turned slightly to face me, Tiffany earrings sparkled in her ears…

Her womanly expression caused my heart to race again.

It wasn’t the feeling of hysterising, but rather the fluster of having a beautiful woman in front of me, so the risk of slipping was low, but… it was still uncomfortable. Dealing with beautiful women is not something I’m good at.

「I have already consumed enough nourishment for the night, so that is satisfactory.」

Oh. She pulled a CalorieMate out of nowhere. So Reki was fine.

But saying that, I looked around… apart from Tsukumo who had gotten another parfait, many of the heroes here are not really touching much of the food.

Is it an idiosyncrasy of American armed personnel that they watch what they eat at parties?

Even though they spend a bunch of time in idiotic exuberant expression, they seem to live the rest of their lives with the constant vigilance of the battlefield.

But I’m an eater.

If you don’t eat when you want to, you’ll just pile up stress and eventually become ill. What’s more, there’s a feast in front of me. What’s more, it’s free food.

Unlike my brother who pays hundreds of millions to the government, I’m constantly running out of money.

…So, leaving Reki and heading toward the food counter…

Aiming to satisfy the needs of my stomach with all kinds of delicacies, I headed towards them.

From the way they were moving, I could tell that the chefs were all top tier. There was an assortment of meat dishes on a golden tray: salmon carpaccio with caviar garnish, shrimp salad, and others.. Each of which glittered.

But as an all-you-can-eat connoisseur, these beautiful appetisers just whetted my appetite.

I should have gone for the heart of the meal. The main course–

–There it is…!

I discovered my main objective.

The genuine American T-bone steak.

Apart from my otherwise poor opinion of America『When it comes to American steak 』, my opinion is simple. However, it is hard to cook properly.

With steak, the taste is something hard to replicate. When it comes to ingredients for cooking it, how you cut the meat changes the texture. It is the ultimate test of a chef’s powers of versatility and skill.

Naturally, the steak was prime beef.

The flesh to the right of the bone was a sirloin, and to the left were fillets, the supreme cut of meat.

「…」

First, I stared fixedly at the chef who was roasting the steak with an expression more serious than one engaged in battle.

Noticing my intense shouting, the black chef with an Afro… and the sharp glint in his eye bespoke his commitment.

「–Cook one for me. I’ll have your best.」

「–But of course. It is my job to keep you heroes in good health–by my cooking. That is how I protect the world as a hero.」

…He’s a professional. From what he said, he must take a lot of pride in his work.

He picked up the meat with his thick fingers–

This is the country of showbiz, and he started cooking the meat in front of me.

–There it was…! The subtle scent of fine quality beef tallow wafted up.

This is the once-in-a-lifetime chance for one of the common masses like me to taste the ultimate steak. There can be no doubt of this.

Then the Afroed chef placed the steak on a gilded plate–Without giving it time to cool, he quartered it with a knife, and it spread open like a flower. It was magnificent.

「Thank-you for this.」

「Enjoy, brother.」

Taking the plate from the chef, he gave me a thumbs-up as I walked away…

Crossing over to a round table draped in snow white cloth, I set the plate down and picked up the fork and knife, ready to assume the appropriate table manners.

*Swish!*… Looking up toward the ceiling, I loosened my necktie.

「–The time is commin’!」

I’m about to have the best meal in my entire life, right now–

I thought this as I looked back down at the table…

Huh…?

It’s gone…! The steak! And the plate!

「Incredible! Thanks Onii-chan!」

「Yeah. They used Grade A beef!」

Looking over my shoulder from where these voices came

Wha…!?

Kaname…! And Tsukumo…! They stood on both sides of me and had taken the plate and wolfed down the steak. Both the fillet and the sirloin.

****************************************************

Was I born under a star that doesn’t allow me to eat delicious things…? I didn’t get to eat any of the Imperial Feast at Rampan Castle either…

The prime cuts of meat of the T-bone steak was gone, due to Kaname and Tsukumo’s sudden whim.

Finished with his work, the Afroed chef  retired into the back with a satisfied face.

Everyone else in the hall thought it was a performance, while I vented my frustrations by body slamming Kaname and Tsukumo 20 times each–and most of the food staff retired.

What remained was the liquor bar. I sat and pushed at the caviar appetiser with a spoon without eating it. The sushi train salted salmon roe was better, to be honest.

I soon lost interest in sucking at the T-bone left on my plate like a hyena…

I want to go home now.

I was really dispirited.

「…Hey, G-3.」

It… wasn’t exactly a bunny girl, but it was a little girl wearing something like a Doronjo-esque10 costume with a mantle that addresses G-3. Having carefully arranged her hair, it looked like her heart was pounding as she smiled.

There were all kinds of people wearing American comic book hero and super hero-like costumes scattered here and there–I wasn’t surprised by her clothes, but when I realised she was talking to me, I furrowed my eyebrows.

「Huh? I made a mistake. Who’re you?」

「…G-3’s older brother.」

「Huh!? Older brother? Where’s G-3?」

The mini-Doronjo goggled around, looking for G-3…

「…Drat!」

Tutting her tongue and sulking… It looks like she really wanted to meet him. He’s really popular. I wonder if he’s popular with a lot of girls? But he’s pretty thick-headed. As his older brother, I’m worried that he might not notice a girl’s attentions and wound their heart.

It looks like this mini-Doronjo would be the kind of person he’d have woman trouble with, so I won’t tell her…

She left and went off somewhere.

An older brother knows his younger brother. From the start, he hadn’t gotten too involved, and instead left it to his subordinates to do as they saw fit and sequestered himself somewhere.

I’m going to do the same.

***************************************************

Descending the yellow escalator alone to the Hudson Soft Hotel–

「…I thought you’d come, Aniki.」

Somehow my younger brother knew what I’d do, and he stood in the neon light.

I had learned 2 secrets about my younger brother–

「You’re really a nice guy, aren’t you?」

I said, drawing my coat closer around me and puffing out a white cloud.

「…Why d’you say that?」

「I’ll get to the second later, but here’s the first: This party. You wanted your subordinates to make connections so that they could find re-employment, didn’t you? With all that is going on with the ruruirokane– you think that you might die in the operation.」

「….Well… If it’s you asking, yeah. Mash is stronger than me.」

Is he such a powerhouse that… he can make G-3 say this? This enemy?

Even so, as the older brother I have to say this.

「Don’t worry. You’ve got me with you.」

That’s why I had come here. To find out how the ruruirokane was related to Aria’s hihiirokane.

Then G-3 slid into a parked taxi cab and plopped himself down, and I sat beside him–

Passing multi-coloured neon English signs, we then turned onto Broadway and 83rd street…

「Aniki. You recognise this spot?」

「Yeah. I saw it in『You’ve Got Mail』. Amazing! This is where Meg Ryan and Tom Hanks met up…!」

It was the Cafe Lalo in the Upper Westside.

It was an old-fashioned French coffee shop that you’d pass by if you didn’t know it was there.

「Right. They shot the scene right here.」

Seemingly having heard of my love of movies from Kaname, G-3 went ahead up the steps and opened the door to go inside.

「It was winter in that movie too. I know it well.」

Because I loved the actors, I had a DVD of the film, but….

Now that we are on location, it was a bit moving.

「Here. Look at this seat. This is where Tom Hanks sat. Hey, G-3! Take a picture of me with your mobile’s camera.」

「You’re such a fanboy.」

Grabbing two colas, my brother took Meg Ryan’s seat.

No matter what, this was a great experience. This place wasn’t just well-known for it’s Hollywood fame alone. It was also a famous cafe.

It had high ceilings and a classically decorated interior. I liked it.

「In New York, things happen on their own timetable. There are more happenings than other cities, so it becomes rather busy. But you can’t write the character for『busy』without using the one for『heart』11. Inside this shop, time seems to slow down. I can just lose myself.」

Sinking back into the chair with a *Creak!*, G-3 stretched out his legs and started saying this…

This metropolis has all kinds of events, and if you were to try to chase them all, before you knew it, you’d be an old man. Sometimes this is said of Tokyo as well.

Because it was an entirely rural town with not much happening, when I spent time with Lisa in Bourtange, time seemed to pass slowly.

In a place in the city that has existed without changing in 100 years… you should take your time more slowly. I should do that.

–But I can’t.

「You noticed, Aniki.」

While pouring the cola into a glass, G-3 indicated the thing he was talking about–

I had already noticed it in the reflection of the glass, using it as a mirror.

He had been following us from the Hudson Hotel, a strange boy.

It was a scrawny, short, middle-school aged Caucasian boy.

He looked like Bill Gates turned into a child. He had a mushroom-like haircut that made him look top-heavy. Gold-rimmed glasses sat on his long nose, and he was carrying what looked like a small camera. A set of dental braces glinted dully in the light. He wore a dull coat and suit. In his hand was the latest version of the iPhone.

I had noticed him due to his clumsy surveillance… The little brat lacked the necessary awareness. He had followed us this far. Bunglingly tailing us.

「The stalker boy bought a bag of potato crisps. Even though he ate some of the leftovers at the union hall meeting.」

「That’s why I made such a rude exit. This is an important party for my followers. So I wanted to lure him away.」

「That’s the second kind thing you’ve done.」

「–It’s fine, Aniki. He’s… come to kill me. He is definitely a problem for you and me.」

「Do you know him? Who is he?」

「That’s Mash.」

「…?」

That mushroom boy…?

This was the Mash that had beaten G-3 within an inch of his life?

「Really, that Mash-room head…? G-3, I don’t really get your American humour」

「It’s not a joke. He’s the strongest man in America.」

「Don’t you mean the weakest?」

Mash… putting a bag of Lay’s Classic, salsa dip, and a small cola on a tray, while grinning–

He headed straight for our table.

–It’s true… is this brat really Mash?

My sense of smell is pretty good, but the scent of gunpowder was completely absent. As if he had never fired a gun in his life.

「May I share this table?」

His voice… was high-pitched. For some reason, the way he spoke was disturbing.

He took a seat without waiting for permission–

「Welcome to America G-2. How’s the old arm doing, G-3?」

–It was Mash.

「Oh, yeah. G-2. Lower your head a bit when you hit the ball and your batting form will improve. And G-3, you really shouldn’t delete messages from women without reading them.」

Had he seen me playing baseball in Central Park…?

I’d noticed him watching us at the party, but not before then.

And I had no idea how he had intercepted the communications for G-3’s mobile.

This enoki-headed boy… was no ordinary person.

「Nice to meet you. I’m Mash Roosevelt from the National Security Agency–the NSA.」

He greeted me in his high-pitched voice and held out his hand for a handshake… but I couldn’t find a callus from holding a gun on the pad of his thumb or index finger. This hand had not held a gun.

After 3 seconds of not returning the handshake had passed, he took his hand back, still smiling.

「–The two of you are truly a magnificent pair–an optimal case study. We are able to glean the best data from you. Thank-you.」

On top of the glasses on his pale face there was–

What was probably an HMD. It was like the Dragon Ball scouter-esue device that G-3 used, only miniaturised, a Neue Ange device. There was a hole for a camera.

He was definitely recording us right now.

「–What kind of organisation is the NSA? Is it like the FBI?」

I asked, purposefully scowling at the camera.

「Don’t you know? Even though the cabinet is considering establishing such an agency in Japan? That was a bit rude. The FBI is a boring agency that catches one petty criminal at a time. They can’t even deal with the Mafia. Actually… I am one of what would be called the privileged class. In terms of the Department of Defence, I’m a brigadier general; in terms of the NYPD, I’m on the level of a bureau chief; and in terms of the CIA, I have the authority of a technical assurance chief. No matter which government agency office I walk into. The FBI has a similar arrangement, so I suppose I must answer ‘yes’ to your question.」

I received this very roundabout answer….

From the way G-3 was sulking, I knew he wasn’t joking. From his explanation–this boy was like an super-evolved form of Zenigata from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Far from being a fringe government employee, he was like a mini-chief executive occupying a key post at the centre of government power.

The age of the boy to whom such power was granted could be counted on a set of fingers. Perhaps—

「–You’re a Genion, aren’t you?」

「That was a pretty quick guess for your IQ. Correct. I’m a successful example of the Los Alamos Elite. The『G』series was a flop, and I am a member of the newer class of gene enriched program–the third in the『R』series– R-3, if you will. Don’t worry. Your father, Konza Tohayama’s genes were not used. He was lacking the minimum IQ.」

Los Alamos Elite–

That must be the US Military’s program to create superhuman weapons with superior genes.

They used my father’s genes to create G-3 and Kaname–my younger brother and sister that excelled in fighting power.

But it looks like this guy was made according to a different pattern… the DNA selected to create him excelled in brain power.

Mash then adjusted his glasses and launched into an IT business sale-like pitch–

「Now then, in place of a proper greeting, I’ll make this presentation. Its title is『Three Reasons None of You Can Beat Me』First, G-2. Are you aware that there are two major political parties in the United States?」

Picking up a crisp, he asked me this stupid question.

「I know that. There’s the Republicans… and, uh… the other one. What is the other one…? By the way, my name is Kinji Tohyama. Don’t call me by that strange name.」

「Got it. I’ll tell you, Kinji. G-3’s support comes from the head of the Republican party. I’m backed by the Democratic party. Right now, the Democraic party is in power in the United States. Your position in this country is weaker than mine.」

Now I understand what G-3’s had said in the Orochi about『allies』and『enemies』…

He meant it in a political context.

「Due to the negligence of the FBI, G-3 has been allowed to run amok as some kind of『chaos』, and I am what society would call『order』. After G-3 went wild and escaped from Los Alamos, I rose up the ranks one step at a time.」

From the way he is talking…

Mash’s true motivation is a personal vendetta against G-3.

「G-3’s power is Force. Mine is Intelligence. Intelligence is superior to force, and it has the capability to include it. With just one twist of information, I can start or stop a war. G-3’s method of deterrence using your own strength is a 20th century idea.」

「–Yeah, you’re right. Humph!」

Raising his cola to his lips, G-3 slouched further down in his chair.

In contrast, Mash’s eyes gleamed like a new moon, and he stretched himself up to his full, but short height–

「–You aren’t the heroes in the 21st century. I am.」

Between new and old versions of the Genion, he wanted to establish his newer existence as superior.

「Now then, Kinji. I’ve seen the recording–and you are some kind of incredible charlatan.」

Changing the target of his attack, I raised my eyebrows.

「Charlatan?」

「Grabbing bullets with your bare hands, deflecting air-to-air missiles… Even G-3 or any peace-loving Japanese couldn’t do this, even if they were trained in the United States. From the video, you appeared to do so, but it has to be some kind of trick. You’ve even been able to fool the entire Butei community–I wonder if you’ve been tricking them to raise your SDA ranking?」

「…You could do it, so I’d appreciate it if you could delete my name from the ranks of those who have ceased to be human. I’ve ignored it anyway. You could do it with your knack for information manipulation.」

「I could do so, and you would immediately cease to exist on that list. If I killed you, for example.」

「…」

「There is also another, tougher ranking system apart from your silly little SDA rankings, for us boys and girls in the privileged class. If asked by a senator with political power– killing a hostile Genion in the top 100 rankings of the SDA would be quite the coup.」

「…Is that why you want to fight us…? To get ahead in your career, to score political points? You tiny humans are all the same. Selfish and egotistical.」

「Don’t underestimate me just because of my physical appearance. The shortest path to a high point, is taking it one small step up at a time. You two are the next 2 steps to take me to the next floor–then I’ll have major general status.」

「What will you do then?」

「Take on Afghanistan and Syria. That should get me to lieutenant general, then there’s Iran and North Korea. That should just get me to general. I wonder if I’ll ask your country for help after the necessary legal process? Especially for the second part.」

「…You’re talking about war?」

「I’m talking about a successful Pax Americana. It’s simply a continuation of what has been happening since the end of World War Two. Then, after my plans are complete–when I take office in 2033, I will be the youngest President in history. The United States will be the most powerful and affluent since it’s founding and all other countries with be tributary states.」

If this person becomes President…

It will be the end of the world.

「That’s Hakkou Ichui.12 We Japanese graduated from such an idea more than 60 years ago.」

I brushed away Mash’s grand visions of the future that he was weaving with a self-satisfied smirk on his face.

「You haven’t graduated, you’ve dropped out. By my calculations, we can achieve Pax Americana if the Dow-Jones Index is 4.3 times its current level, and per capita earnings of the American people is 4.7 times their current level. You called me selfish and egotistical–but my success in life has the best interests of the United States in mind.」

「That’s just dissembling.」

「Dissembling is a virtue.」

Mash pooh pooh-ed my words with a condescending grin like an older person might, despite being younger–

「However… Both you and G-3 are very reliable in some aspects. That is why I have used some of my valuable time to come meet with you. I want the two of you to become my subordinates. I would give G-3 another suitable government post again. And you would have a permanent residence in the United States.」

…Before fighting and killing… he came to recruit us?

「You want us to be your servants? I got a similar offer from the Chinese and Japanese yakuza. You want to use me as some kind of hitman?」

「Something like that. I thought you could deal with Osama bin Laden…. But from what you’re saying, I understand if you refuse. What about G-3? We could ride the train to glory together. You must know that this is the final departure call for the last train.」

Dismissing my answer, he turned his imperious gaze to G-3–

「Then I’ll be seeing you off. I don’t work well on tracks laid down by others. I’ve already had enough of Los Alamos.」

In that answer, his original hostility–was readily apparent.

Mash remained completely silent for precisely 3 seconds…

「What an unfortunate waste. Truly, such an unfortunate waste.」

He said in clearly enunciated Japanese and snapped his fingers with a *Snap!*.

Then…

*Creak!*…*Creak!*…

…That’s…!

I remembered her, that small girl–

With another set of creaks, the floorboards of Cafe Lalo bent under her weight.

Then without saying anything… sat down at our table, next to Mash.

*Creeeak!*

The wooden chair warped under her weight. She was heavy. She was wearing a coat, but I couldn’t see any heavy armaments concealed inside. She must really be heavy. 200 kilos at least.

–She’s not human.

「…LOO…!」

She spoke a name I had not heard in a long time.

LOO had come to Daiba’s Empty Island last year in October for FEW’s Bandire, and I had seen this humanoid close-combat mech disguised as a little girl embark.

She operated a tank with dual US Vulcan cannons that were destroyed by Aria in her escape, and she held rank in the US Army. I knew she came from America… so I met her here once more.

「…」

After confirming that this was the same mechanised doll, LOO–

Remained silent.

It was just like Reki. No, it lacked any trace of human kindness.

On Empty Island, I had the impression of low intelligence, but… she was acting in a human manner.

Right now, she looks like a gynoid. I could perceive slight motions meant to keep her balance, but the total lack of expression on her face was–eerily disturbing.

Her hair was still like that of a beautiful girl from an anime and cerulean blue like then, but as a『Robot Girl』her personality program seemed to have been downgraded since I last saw her.

「Notice anything different from last year, Kinji?」

I scrutinised LOO as mash picked up and ate another crisp.

「Back then, there was a human in charge of the LOO-GyNe project.. That is to say, she was operated remotely. The XGY-12–the one you call LOO, is equipped with bilateral control when operating remotely in order to respond more like a human would. Don’t even characters from fighting games made in Japan have instantaneous responsive gestures and expressions in response to situations? That is to say, while acting autonomously, you should not take any hostile actions toward me. She also has an artificial pharynx instead of an automated voice box. It’s linguistic software is underdeveloped, so I have set it so that it cannot speak while under autonomous action.」

…This was the military robot weapon that the United States was pouring time and money into developing.

With sensors more acute than human senses, it is prepared for biological and chemical warfare, and most of all, able to preserve human life–to the end of warding off war weariness. The wars in Vietnam and Somalia were unpopular after all. Such things were indispensable to the Pax Americana that Mash had laid out. They could spread out these unmanned weapons across the world on land, sea, and sky.

But, LOO…

Unlike the ubiquitous UAVs and UGVs, she was humanoid.

Her weight was comparable to Honda Research Lab’s ASIMO, but her external features were much more advanced. At a glance, she was indistinguishable from a human. As expected of American Transzendieren. They make all kinds of incredible inventions behind closed doors.

Although she is made of completely inorganic material, I would still hesitate to shoot her… That was probably why she was made to look as she does.

And if you’re humanoid, you can also use weapons developed for humans.

LOO was a transitional weapon on the way to the United States’ realisation of fully unmanned warfare.

「Don’t misunderstand me. She wasn’t made to look like a little girl out of my own preference. I like older women, and she was created and designed by the one responsible for the project–Back then he pretended to participate in your dispute in order to kill G-3…」

Mash was just prattling on at this point…

LOO was looking at me without saying a word, but she looked somewhat pathetic. I knew she was a humanoid machine, but from Mash’s explanation, by taking away her voice, he had effectively stolen her heart.

Her expressionless eyes seemed to convey the message:『Save me』.

Maybe it was a Japanese habit that made me feel a soul in this inorganic form.

「…Now, it’s time for me to say farewell.」

His unlikable, high-pitched voice had barely explained the second half of his plan, but… ever since his guard, LOO, had arrived, Mash had adopted a smug manner.

Casting a glance toward G-3, he had become hostile as well.

「Before we part, G-3, there is something I have to say to you directly. I adored Dr. Sara, and when she died–it was your fault.」

His tone grated on the nerves, and his words–

While I ignored them, G-3… reacted suddenly.

–Dr. Sara. That is the name of the woman that G-3 is trying to resurrect, using the power of irokane to defy the laws of nature.

She passed away due to an accident during G-3’s training, and G-3 blamed himself… and he escaped the research facility where he had been born.

I knew that–and G-3…

He loved her.

「If you were stronger, I could have saved Dr. Sara! If she were still alive, she would have been an excellent future First Lady. What a shame.」

At Mash’s words, G-3’s grip on the glass on top of the table tightened.

With a *Creak!* the glass cracked.

「Insulting the deceased is the absolute lowest form of provocation. Don’t fall for it.」

I laid my hand on top of G-3’s to hold him back…I said so too, as he was about to snap.

Even in a conflict, there are good and bad things to say.

Mash glossed over our anger like a cool breeze…

「That’s right. I ran through 200 possible simulations of a battle with you, yesterday. 199 times I won and 1 time it was a draw; I was undefeated. That’s a win rate of 99.5%.」

His thin fingers tapped quickly. Like there was a smartphone in his brain.

「『Political Superiority』,『The respective positions of chaos and order』,and– There is a third reason that you cannot defeat me, and I’ve saved the greatest reason for last. It’s simple. You are dumb. Kinji’s IQ is about 100, G-3’s 192, and mine is 407.」

…I had a standard score of 50, so I didn’t mind being told so again.

But Mash’s tone indicated that he was planning to leave soon…

So I felt I had to respond.

「Mash, we have this saying among Butei. If you put your strength together 1 + 1 can equal 3 or even 4.」

「Now I see just how dumb you are. You can’t even do Maths, can you, Kinji?」

「If you can’t understand that proverb, you’re the dumb one. What I mean is that there are things that transcend numbers… That is the meaning. And I don’t know if you have an IQ of 400, but if I have an IQ of 100, that’s like 4 of us working together. That’s important.」

I used my one intelligence to respond to this Genion’s war of words…

「Aniki, you shouldn’t talk. You’re showing how stupid you are.」

Forgetting his disgust and anger, G-3 tried to calm me down.

「No way! He said 3 things, so I want to say 3 back!『3 Reasons Drop-outs are Better than Elites』. First, even if drop-outs like us lose, we don’t have any social standing to lose. But if you do, you’ll lose your position. Mash, you can’t just climb the stairs. If you make a mistake, you’ll find yourself falling down them.」

I said rather pointlessly, to which–

「Hmm. I’ve never made a mistake or lost a thing in my life, so I don’t really understand.」

He unexpectedly side-stepped the issue.

「…And, Kinji? What are the other 2 reasons?」

Ugh! I had just said 3, but I didn’t really think about it. I need 2 more. I tried to think of something while I was talking, but my 100 IQ brain couldn’t come up with anything.

「…Ah, well…」

「…Huh! It seems you have a sense of humour. That was outside my calculations.」

「I think… I’m pretty good at simulations myself, so let me check your results. Right here, and right now. I’ll show you that you’ve made a mistake in your simulations.」

My mind subsumed by anger, I finally raised my idiot flag: resorting to brute force.

Forgetting that LOO was here, I gripped Mash’s tie and dragged him toward me–

「…Wha! Hit me! Go ahead! I won’t hit back. You can’t win anyway. Even if I’m a scrawny person, go ahead!」

With wild gesticulation and glasses slightly askew, Mash shrieked in a high girlish voice.

「…Stop, Aniki. If you hit him here, you’ll just be arrested.」

G-3 held me back with his right arm. I was seething with anger.

「…!」

Grrr…

Hitting this mushroom would be an entirely one-sided affair and diminish my standing as a man. It would be bullying.

Then G-3 indicated a line of sight to where what appeared to be several plainclothes NYPD officers were. Mash must have used his connections to call them.

I’m also not in Hysteria Mode. And G-3 is here.

If I’m arrested, I’ll lose the chance to help Aria by stealing the ruruirokane.

So, reluctantly, I let go of him–

「You are certainly stronger than I. G-3 was challenged by many top agents–Not one of them returned, and they were all capable agents. So I will not be foolish enough to fight you directly.」

Nervously adjusting his glasses and tie, Mash stood on his short leg next to his seat.

「So, I’ll take my leave while you are still living. The next time I see you, you’ll be sleeping corpses. Nevada, Area 51, controlled access area 89A. That is where the ruruirokane you desire is located, and I have applied to defend it, so we should meet again, as planned. If you surrender during the battle, you have my word that you’ll be sent to a prison for all kinds of troublemakers for a holiday. G-3, please put your affairs in order. As soon as I have taken care of you, I’ll legally seize that building of yours. I’ll also seize the school you’ve been pouring money into.」

「Mash! Why do you want to close his school!? Those kids are innocent!」

「That’s none of your business. In this country, political power and money are everything. In the unlikely event you survive, you might be able to appeal to some kind of political power or raise some money. If that power is higher than mine, then you could stop my harassment of G-3’s subordinates. Well, except for that cute nun–She might just make a good secretary.」

At that boorish remark, my patience was finally exhausted.… *Grip!* Heedless of the police officers, I grabbed Mash’s arm again to stop him from leaving.

「Oi! Wait! You can’t just say what you want and leave as you please when I have something to say to you–」

I had grabbed Mash’s arm, but as for my own hand–*Grip!*– LOO had gripped it in her own hand.

She was still seated, staring off into empty space.

But those slender arms… *Creak!*…*Creak!*… had strength in them.

Wh-wha…!

This was no human grip. It was stronger than Aria, Ranbyou, and even Nii-san’s…!

「–Aniki!」

「…Hrng!…Urgh!」

LOO’s grip had vice like strength and was about to crush the bones and muscles in my forearms…

G-3 squeezed my arm with his left, artificial arm and my hand naturally opened.

Realising I had released Mash, she let go of my arm…

Mash slapped my aching arm with the back of his hand.

「–Don’t touch me with your filthy hand, you yellow sheep!」

Leaving me with the slur on Japanese people, he left the shop…

As I cradled my aching arm, G-3 stood nearby to protect me– LOO followed behind Mash.

With the two of them gone, only I and G-3 remained…

…Having been overpowered by that little man in the end, I had no words.

Mash Roosevelt…

I hadn’t met that kind of enemy before today.

Without doing anything to us, he had challenged us with intelligence alone. He had overwhelming political power and the power of a government–and he had wielded it to include law enforcement and military.

Just like a sheep, I could not lay a hand or foot on Mash, but…

Remember. Although you might think of sheep as weak, water buffalo have sharp horns and hooves and have headbutted and kicked wolves to death. In New Zealand they are the most prevalent livestock and they hold the record for the posing the most danger and number of injuries to humans. I’ll teach him just what I’m capable of. As a sheep.

*********************************************************

In an entirely terrible mood, I left Cafe Lalo and went out into the winter night…

「I didn’t think that such enemies existed… not in the whole world. As a fellow American, I would have preferred if he’d struck directly.」

My white breath puffing, I grumbled to G-3 who didn’t call a taxi for some reason.

「Oi, Aniki! Let’s head back.」

Slightly peeved, I followed behind him as he walked down Broadway just ahead of me–

Angus was waiting patiently for us with the white Rolls-Royce Phantom.

When we disappeared, he must have come to look for us and found us at the cafe that G-3 seems to frequent.

「I shall keep to the busy streets for our return. Just in case of unlikely events, the police will not shoot at citizens.」

Angus said something to make you wonder just who the villain was here…

The police were acting on Mash’s orders, and so this was the safest option.

With our current clothing, we really did look like New York gangsters.

「Angus, you bastard, you’re skipping out on the party!」

Putting an arm on his hip and stretching the other across his chest while standing under a street lamp, G-3 adopted an Aria-esque angry pose.

「Scold me however you like. But I have decided to live and die with you, Third-sama.」

It seems that he had seen through to the true reason for attending the party, and his face screwed up into a small smile.

「…Tch! Have it your way! Oi, get me some tomatoes!」

G-3 turned red and vented his anger–he even makes the same unreasonable demands as Aria. But Angus is a different sort of henchman than I, and he proffered a tomato wrapped in a handkerchief like some kind of magic trick. A reliable man. If it were me it would go like this:

「Momoman?」

Then:

「No!」

Then:

「Not good enough!」

Then I’d start the wind-hole dance.

「I intercepted your conversation, and he was foolish. Mash Roosevelt.」

Angus smiled again at G-3 as he munched on tomatoes beside me.

「…Foolish, how? He has an IQ of 400.」

I said, somewhat discouraged.

「A foolish person can still have a high IQ. The top Army brass is full of them. But there are few fools such as Mash. I would much rather follow Third-sama…」

It seems that Angus who had the highest loyalty to G-3 dislikes Mash the most.

「Third-sama will not be restricted to one place, nor will that person become President. Third-sama is light. Can anyone in the world bind light?」

「…」

G-3 turned red, and it wasn’t because of the tomatoes he was eating…*Kick!*

Then standing under the streetlight, he kicked Angus’ shin with the tip of his leather shoe to draw his attention to something.

Angus turned around to look at something behind him…

A fat, grandmotherly, black woman in a tight-fitting NYPD uniform stood there in one hand, an orange piece of paper that seemed to be a violation ticket flittered..

「–You there, with the car. This is a No-Parking Zone!」

She pointed a bit angrily at the Rolls Royce with her baton…

「Oh, I knew that. I only parked because of my employer.」

Embarrassed, Angus tried to accept the ticket.

But the policewoman snatched it back.

「I’ll let it go tonight. A friend of mine was pulled out in this shit weather for a personal security detail, and he told me:『Mash was a total piece of shit, and the people we were supposed to watch seemed like good guys.』So just move the car out of here fast.」

With a small smile, she exercised a bit of discretion.

…I gave a tight smile at the clever arrangement.

Mash said that『Political power and money are everything in this county』–

But America isn’t such a narrow-minded country. That gave me a bit of peace of mind.

[END TEXT]

*****************************

1. These are positive or negative impression of hand prints in bronze. Link

2. Batto Hino is Leica Hino’s (From HnA AA) father.

3. As far as I can tell, MacArthur had nothing to do with the 7th special forces group.

4. Means the combination of different units (ground troops and cavalry, ship and aircraft) to complement each other in different terrains and situations

5. Reads: Luca’s Room in Russian.

6. Nausicaä of the Valley of the Wind creature from the Sea of Corruption. Link

7. This is not true. Emergency services are obligated to take people who obviously need/request care, regardless of their ability to pay. They are supposed to pay later, but there is really no way to force them to do it, and a lot of the people receiving care are very poor and homeless.

Prisons don’t release prisoners if they run out of money. Federal and State detention centres do not close, hardly ever. When they do, they transfer them to other facilities.

Same goes for private prisons, which are the only ones that really close. Schools operate similarly. Kids would just be transferred and given transportation options to the other school. Very few cannot get to public schools of some kind. Not that they are the best, but it is school.

Tsk! Tsk! Akamatsu-sensei!

8. Dragon Ball move used in Super Saiyan Goku’s fight with Frieza on Namek

9. Original idiom is ‘sell oil’

10. Evil villainess from Yatterman anime.

11. 忙しい == BUSY, 心 == HEART. You use the one for ‘heart’ to build off of to gwt ‘busy’. Kanji radical #61 — Thanks jorgelotr !

12. WWII political slogan (All 8 corners of the world under one roof) implying Japanese world domination

Volume 18: Star-Spangled Martial Law Trans-Am, Chapter 4: New Yorker G-3'sGangChapter 4: New Yorker G-3's GangSTART TEXTThe motorcade then pulled past the Empire State Building the giant gorilla had clung to in the filmKing KongNearby, a relatively newly constructed skyscraper reached up to pierce the sky.Up above the Gothic style entryway, a large, stylised set ofGandIIIletters combined and arranged in a logo.Is this possiblyI said as I got out of the Mitsuoka Orochi, and looking at the logo that I was pointing at, G-3 said:It's my building.I thought so!You, own a building in Manhattan!?They just keep popping up one after another. I thought it'd be fun to have one myself.You did it for fun. That's really in line with: In all Heaven and Earth, I alone am worthy of honour'.That's my favourite quote!His followers in tow, I entered the building behind G-3. Above the entryway, the Stars and Stripes and Circle of the Sun fluttered side by side. I didn't need to ask. G-3 must have ordered them to hoist them in order to welcome me.Although we are siblings, G-3 and I have different nationalities With my sister-in-law, Patra, an Egyptian, we're becoming quite cosmopolitan. The Tohyama Family, that is.Thinking that as I walked along, behind me:It's been a while since I've been to G-3 Tower!Kaname said, giving a predictable name for the building as she skipped along, pulling Reki by the hand.Inside the entrance hall with the ridiculously high ceilingIn the floor by the walls there were a lot of bronze hand prints embedded.1Next to each of them, I saw there was a name and brief biography engravedthey must be from all the American heroes G-3 is friendly with. My brother has a lot of connections. Among superhumans.Oh! Is that Batto Hino's hand print?2Do you know him?Hino is one of America's most famous armed detectives. He was an anonymous soldier that never showed his face, and his ex-wife was Japanese. His daughter was a first-year enrolled in ASSAULT and one of Ranbyou's favourites.Yeah. I can't say 100% I can beat him in a fight, but I think of him as a friend.Why do you always talk about everyone so condescendingly, and huh? The floor over hereKINJI TOHYAMA My name was on a nameplate. But there was no handprint.We'll get your handprint later, Aniki. Your name will be immortalised here as a hero.You've got to be joking! No I'm not; I'm a normal Butei. Get rid of that nameplate!I rounded on my younger brotherWelcome back, Third! Since you've been gone, the NSA and CIA have been snooping around.A young girl's voice interrupted, cutting me short.Turning around, I saw the familiar face of one of G-3's subordinates It was a girl with straight-cut bangs, silver hair, and eyes with mis-matched eye colours.Thanks for keeping a lookout, Luca. It's probably Mash's minions sniffing around. I don't like it, but there's nothing to be done.Entering the building and removing her scarf, Tsukumo addressed the beautiful Caucasian girl, Luca She has uniform length hair and butterfly-shaped hair ornaments on the left and right sides of her head. She also wore a butterfly designed choker, a two-layer, short flared skirt, and a knee-length coat with a lining in a girlish printThe overall impression was that of a stylishly dressed child. But her expression was gloomy.Aren't you the classic example of gloomy'?Her blue and red eyes looking at me, I was shocked.Did I just say it out loud? I had to think about it.The uncanny Luca, joined everyone else, except Angus who went to deal with the cars, and headed toward the elevator in the lobby.There, striking an imposing stance with arms folded, was a portrait of G-3. You seem to think highly of yourself, G-3. He even decorated the place with his own flattering picture. It looked like a blown-up picture of the JPEG he uploaded on Facebook at my parent's home. But he was cross-dressing.**********************************************Most of the floors of G-3 Tower seem to be rented out to various business enterprises, and the rent alone must be a sizable sum. And so the rich become richer.The entire top floors from 113-115 are the residence of theG-3 League. In total, there were 52 rooms, and the top floor was a penthouse for G-3's exclusive use. It's something I don't understand.Each of the rooms were sets of suites in multiple styles with high ceilings that didn't make any sense Entering one of the 3 dining roomsYippie!Both Kaname and Tsukumo chorused this baby-ish English cry, dashing to the table. There was a mound of hamburgers, cheeseburgers, Big Macs, and Quarter Pounders, apparently purchased by Luca. There were also bucket-like XL colas, milkshakes, and cake-like biscuits, and apple piesEach taking a seat, the girls began to eat all of them.It seems that what this country lacks the most is nutritional educationThe large-sized French fry was twice the size of that in Japan, and Reki was silently imbibing the scent. I could already see the bad influence America was having on her.Aniki, you should eat too. An army marches on its stomach, after all.Angus came up behind him, pulled out his chair, and G-3 threw himself down into and started eating his Big N' Tasty burger.Well, I do like McDonalds. But should you really eat it 3 times a day? It's a bad example for Kaname.I scolded him, but I was hungry, so I ate a Big Macand, as I thought, it tasted the same as in Japan. There wasn't an authentic taste to be experienced, but on the other hand, it was reassuring. It provided a sense of stability.Making the rounds to everyone besides G-3, Angus took a small meal to match his slight frame, along with one for Atlas, and Collins checked the halal markings on his meal before eating Each meal was suited to the person.So when are we going? To get the ruruirokaneI asked G-3 while Angus poured me a black coffee, from a Syphon coffee makerTo get everyone rested, re-supplied, and service the Sagittarius it will take 3 days. We'll get started on your personalised armour tonight, and you'll have it in 3 days.Despite the fact that he used an abbreviation, I knew what he meant because he tapped the Neue Ange armour he wore on his shoulder with a finger. He wants me to wear that? No way!***************************************************************Although I didn't want to wear it, I didn't want to be the one to tell my younger brother that, and so after the meal, Angus took Reki and I, the pair of newbies, to his rooms.The antique style furniture was well-chosen and it looked like an office, andThird-sama has some spare equipment, and you are his brother. It should require just minor alterations.He temporarily fitted boot-like leg armour, and some arm armour like Hiraga-san's Orochi-kai on to me.Moving like a first class tailor, Angus took the measurements of my limbs and torso. In terms of Butei High, he is seemingly able to fulfil both the roles of LOGI and AMDO.But this armour is incredible! It was as light as a feather and did nothing to restrict movement. And yet, it was completely bulletproof.We also conducted a test where a 9 mm bullet was fired at the armour on the back of the hand, and I didn't even feel anything.The bulletproof clothing has a micro-spring structure made of twisted nano-Kevlar that operates on the principle of dispersing the shock of a bullet's impact, but it appears able to disperse it with a much higher efficiency.How is it, Aniki?What a cheat! This thing is incredible!Your very existence is a cheat, Aniki!I didn't like the armour and reacted as such, but G-3 was in high spirits.But what about concealability? It can't really be hidden under clothes.I still didn't like the Metal Hero-like look of it, and in response to this unreasonable request:As you wish. However, it would lower the strength.Pecking away on a scientific calculator, Angus replied.How much? Would Aniki be able to take a technique like myMeteor?G-3 asked from beside me, his face drawing itself into a grin. It looked like a wry smile.I cannot say exactly. I can guarantee it up to a speed of Mach 2.That's plenty. Ouka is only Mach 1.My Aniki pulls all kinds of insane moves. Make it thin, but don't let it's performance drop.In response to G-3 even more harsh request, Angus replied:As you wish.Bowing his head. A reliable man. This is the kind of follower you want.Hey, Reki. I know you like it, but take that thing off. When you wear that, I'm not joking, it makes me uncomfortable because I don't know where you are.I said to the empty space within the room *Zzzt!* *Zzzt!*Accompanied by the crackling sound, the raincoated figure of Reki materialised next to me.Silent as ever, her red eyes peered out at me from beneath the hoodAngus had given her a raincoat style Metamaterial Ghillie suitIt looked like she had taken a liking to the favourite disguise used by G-3's followers.When I asked about it, this optical ghillie coat she was using employed Reflective Projection Technology RPT that was originally a Japanese technology. The wrecked Galleon was covered with it, that is nanoscale photopores that changed hue to match whatever background was behind it.If I had to give it a name, I'd call it Chameleon Reki. When she wore it, her already microscopic presences would vanish entirely. With this, Reiki might be able to get her revenge on Headmaster Midorimatsu.However, disappearing and then suddenly reappearing set my heart pounding in a bad way, so I banned her from wearing it while near me for a while.****************************************************************Taking off the armour, I was released from Angus's roomIt was too early to sleep, so I decided to try to come to an understanding with G-3's followers, with whom I would be shortly risking my life.However, I didn't know who stayed in which room, so I just started opening them.Peering into the first oneOh! Kinji-kun! Good evening!It was the real Ironman who fought in his P. A. A., the CaucasianAtlas.Atlas' room was setup like a sports gym. Running around the room in a set of shorts and a T-shirt, he looked like a huge, white, American football or rugby player.He's not a bad guy by any stretch of the imagination but I wanted to run. He's the athletic type.Can I interrupt you for a moment?By all means! Come in! You should join me in running!Well, I really don't want to run But is this a picture of you in uniform?I said, picking up a framed picture from off a cabinet standIt looked like a bit younger Atlas, but the one in the picture had the same flushed, smiling face. In his hand was a medal in a display box that was inscribed with valedictorian. Also displayed in the photograph was an older man that seemed to be his father holding a All-School Boxing Champ belt at Atlas' waist.Sure is! I graduated from Westpoint, was appointed a second lieutenant, and was assigned to the 7th special forces group under Special Operations Command. I was the team commander, and it was during my time there that Iran intoG-3-kun. You've got me all nostalgic.Atlas' smile stretched across his face, exposing all of his teeth You left Westpoint to come to Japan? Wasn't this the elite, best of the best unit that General Douglas MacArthur commanded?3He was assigned the command of Green Berets. He must have been one of the youngest CO's of the 7th SFGThey were tasked with the difficult task of drug trafficking in Central and South America and must have skipped a few steps up the chain of command.Just now, Atlas put a slight emphasis in the wordsran intoHe must have received orders and gone to kill him. G-3.Maybe when G-3 was engaging in his hobby of disrupting the cartels, the 7th SFG thought that their job was being stolen, so the assassination order was issued.How was it when youran intomy brother?It was incredible! I fought him in the jungle of Ecuador, but no matter what our bullets never reached each other, so I proposed we decide things in a boxing match. He laughed loudly and accepted.What idiots! Atlas, and you too G-3!I drowned in a sea of blood. For the first time in my life, I was completely defeated and suffered a setback. Defeated, he asked meDeath or Prisoner, make a choice.and I answeredKill meThen he saidGood answer. I'll kill you.Then he gouged out a hole in the ground right next to my head with his fist.So instead of killing you he took you prisoner?No. I was killed, in a sense. When my eyes went wide, G-3-kun said to meThe person you have been until yesterday is dead. Now you're reborn. I recognise your strength, so become one of my superhero followersThen he took my hand and showed me a smiling face. I was inspired. And I thought: what an entirely amazing person!The hell! But when I'm in Hysteria Mode, I say all kinds of things to girls, so I'm not really one to talk, but hearing G-3's words gave me goose bumps.A stubborn and serious man was disarmed by those words.After losing to G-3, Atlas dropped out of an elite military career. And he did it all for my brother.In any case, Atlaswas recognised for his strength by G-3 and joined the front-line force of the G-3 League, it would seem. And judging from that story and the fight on OmotesandouHis offensive and defensive power are both high, and he was a tough adversary evenseparatedfrom his unit.If Atlas were a heavily armoured vanguard in his P.A.A., even if his enemy defeated him, they would be exhausted. And if G-3 were there, then there would be no one who could stand against themEven for me in Shinagawacould Altas and G-3 prepared a two-phased assault. I thought back to last year's life or death ordealBoy!Calling Atlas, a plump, blonde grandmother entered the room. Who is this?Mama!His already bright face began to beam as he rushed over to the source of the voice, an old woman with coke-bottle glassesShe wore a long, floral print skirt, and he swept her up into his arms.Oh! Boy! That business you work for keeps you awfully busy. You must be so tired! Look here, I'll make you a big meat pie!Whoa! Thanks, Mama!That must be Atlas' mother. What an age to have a child! Because of that, Atlas must have grown up spoiled and developed some kind of Oedipus Complex.Now then, I wanted to talk to you about this formal marriage interview. Look at this mobile phone picture. How about this little miss? You'd have awfully cute blonde babies!M-Mama! It's all too fast!He answered with a forced laugh. All of a sudden, Atlas had suddenly become totally weakI have almost no memories of my own mother, but I'm envious, and I left the room behind.**************************************************************** Were you a US Navy SEAL? Why, yes! Why do you want to know?A large number of computer displays arranged both vertically and horizontally on a wide, black desk, Collins answered, wearing a heart patterned suit.This roomthough smartly designed smelled sickeningly of men's cologne.What are you doing there? Trading stocks?Yes and No. I have investments, but I mainly deal in Credit Default Swaps.I don't understand Can you make money on those? Isn't the subprime American mortgage loan bubble collapsing?There are ways to make money from a recession, dear. I just made 3.6 million today.I-In such a short time you made 3.6 million Yen?That's dollars, darling. That would be about 300 million Yen. When the children all retreat, it's time to leave it to a US Securities Analyst.Flashing diamond studded earring and wearing Chanel sunglasses despite the fact that he's indoors Collins used an eye-tracking system on the monitors and used his right and left hands independently to type on separate keyboards. He must be taking in the information for multiple financial charts and tools, executing trades, and carrying on this conversation all simultaneously.What's more, he has the fighting power of a Navy SEAL. That was the kind of follower G-3 had.You're a dependable man, aren't you, Collins.Wouldn't you say Third-sama is more dependable than I? It's a bother, so he leaves the money matters to me.What a smart bunch they are even in their spare time, they make money almost like a hobby in their spare time. I was dripping sweat working as a part-timer in the convenience store for 640 Yen per hour.I didn't want to disrupt Collins, so I stayed silentI then began categorising the members of the G-3 League in my head.G-3 was in charge of bringing people together. As the strongest and most capable person, he directs the organisation with his charisma. He is the most important part in this ideal team structure.Angus was the leader's butler who took care of the team's property, daily necessities, and transport.Tsukumo seemed to be in charge of personal security in Sugamo. She appeared to be of the same race as Tamamo and likely had been serving as an advisor in matters related to irokane, as well.Atlas was deployed on the front lines, as well as Collins who also served the dual role of capital funds procurement.From what I saw last year, Kaname was in charge of spying, patrols, and subversive activities. In addition, Kaname also served the role of a lesser G-3 and could take command in the unlikely event that it is required. Life limiterWith G-3's medical issue, this allowed for the delegation of authority so that the team doesn't get wiped out all at once.Kaname has come to stay with me, but if G-3 eats that special tomato, he'll be fine and it's nothing to worry about.The G-3 League is perfect.If given the opportunity to form a better team, I couldn't.They weren't any here, but I as looked around the floor, I felt there were more membersIt was a small militaryusing the Combined Arms4approach and several extreme personnel. They each had their specialty and worked together organically to function effectively.There was a drastic difference between them and the typically useless assembly of Baskerville where I was the ex-pushover leader.However That little girl Luca was a bit mysterious.She had been left behind as a defensive rear-guard, but she didn't seem too strong.There was no way she was G-3's lover, so she must be some kind of ESPer.If we're going to be fighting together, I should really make sure and find out.**************************************************************I knocked on a door that had the fancy, decorative script 5that I couldn't read on itAccording the Collins, this is definitely where Luca-chan's room is, but my knock went ignored.However, the door wasn't shut all the way and half locked inside, I could tell someone was there.That brat! Was she ignoring me?I didn't like that.Alright, then in retaliation for calling me gloomy', I'll just go in.I even had the Metamaterial Ghillie I had confiscated from Reki.It had a switch inside the transparent raincoat, and I pulled the hood and stepped into a spacious bathroom to make sure I had disappearedThen suddenly I felt sick as I entered the white and pink covered room that smelled entirely girlish and feminine.Actually, thinking about it, they would hear my breathing, but I could traumatise Luca by having her witness vomit seemingly appearing from an alternate dimension. I didn't want to go overboard on the revenge, so I forced down the hamburger by force of will.She must be a collector because on the walls and in several cabinets, there were wristwatches and pocket watches from all over the worldThere were several clearly defined areas and a door leading to a smaller room.I heard some kind of voice from inside, and I entered while invisible!I just barely was able to restrain a shriek as I stepped insideThere was a soft, canopy bed inside what looked like a bedroomYou can remove the ribbon here so that it doesn't pass below the navel, Tsukumo. It comes off.Depending on the bra, it can actually improve your posture.This one holds my breasts in the cup from armpit to chest. Even if I Banzai, I'm OK and they don't come out. Yeah, it's very cute too.Luca in pastel pink, Tsukumo in pastel yellow, Kaname in pastel white, and Reki in pastel green!They were all in their underwear!To any outside observers, the average age appeared to be 14, and the 4 girls were putting their vibrant skin on full display in a just about nude state. Why!?From the large walk-in closet, I deduced that Luca was the kind of person with a lot of clothes, and, in getting ready for a fancy party in a few days, they were helping her figure out what to wearbut the reason doesn't really matter! I have to stop the blood flow as soon as possible!2,3,5,7,9 9 isn't a prime number! Augh! Come on!Of all the places to hysterise! It was a fantasy of every other boyWhat they would do if they were invisibleand imagining all the indecent acts they would get up to. These were 4 innocent, beautiful girls. And one of them was my little sister!Frightened and confusedI looked up on the bed, and there a field of women's underwear bloomed. It was like a field of flowers!It resembled the colourful field from the Hong Kong lingerie shop, but these flowers were much more frilly and girlish. Despite that point in my favour, the flowers were a bit more lively and fresh. Even so these 4 beautiful girls were dressed only in their underwear!What I mean to say is that each of these flower are as dangerous as a super-dreadnought, regardless of what they are or are not wearing.Reki's Shimamura bras, Kaname's Shima Shima bras, and Tsukumo's sarashi-like default choices littered the bed. Th-this is too dangerous!The inside of the Metamaterial Ghille hood is equipped with an infrared display, and I could distinguish the freshly discarded articles and there were a lot of them.That means that they were going to be taking off the lingerie they were currently wearing!I have to get out of here! Hey, the door's half open.Tsukumo said, reaching out to close off my only path of retreat.Adopting the posture of the C from the song YMCA, I just barely was able to avoid her as she reached over to close it.N No good!Although I was transparent, and it thus had no practical effect, I paled but Tsukumo, standing next to me in her lemon-yellow lingerieHuh?She raised her head and sniffed.With a rustle, the hair on her kitsune ears stood up.Something smells like Kinji Tohyama?Your nose is pretty keen, Tsukumo.Kinji-san is there, Tsukumo-san.Even Reki noticed.This was like the time that Riko locked me in the locker in the girl's locker room all over again. Except this time, we're in New York.Uh I'm sorry. I heard voices but never intended to do thisGlowering at the location from which my voice came, Luca's expression told me she hadn't heard me*Whoosh!*Her uniform length hair flared.Then her blue eye took on the same shade of red as the other.Like witnessing an angry Ohmu6, the blood flow of Hysteria Mode froze*Thump!* *Ba!* *Ba!* *Ba!* *Ba!* *Ba!*I felt a series of impacts on me head, chest, and abdomen in a barrage of blows!Ow! Ooow! Luca didn't even lay a finger on me! What the heck!?Knocked back into the wall, the Metamaterial Ghille raincoat came off partiallyand Luca who stood with her arms crossed at her waist angrily:I can't forgive you for stupidly saying I had thin arms.She read my thoughts.She must be the one in the G-3 League in charge of Stealth!This must be something like the techniqueReading the human heartthat Julia-senpai from SSR who trained Aria in telekinesis used, but contactless. It probably only works when she is concentrating on the person.That's just about right, but you wouldn't really understand. I studied at the Moscow University Parapsychology Academy since I was 12 years old, and the Russian Federation's Federal Security Servicethe former KGB ordered me to fight Third. I am one of his followers now, but I chased him down to some of the worst places imaginable.You skipped up all the way to university at age 12? That's incredible, Luca! You're a genius! And you're so beautiful too! Heaven has given you two gifts!I'll know if it was on purpose.So what should I do?Just obey me. Now, Tohyama. I've given you leeway because you are Third's brother, but there are limits.She was calm and collected, but at the heart of it, her personality was like Aria'sWith the raincoat half off, part of me was invisible and others were not, creating a surreal imagethen without warning, I was picked up by the scruff of the neck to be scolded.Y-your younger sister is here! Youbeast!Her tail sticking out from the top of her underwear, the real beast Tsukumo declareddelivering a high kick to my face.Onii-chan, you're so lewd. If you wanted to see them, you just had to say so~!Looking happy for some reason, Kaname pinched my cheek and glanced at the P-fiber that had taken on the shape of a heart.Reki assigned the blame to me by looking at me silently with a cold glare.My punishment is a sentence of Karmic Castrationbad luck will follow you, and you will forever lose 1 chance to flirt with a woman. In its place, you will experience 1 stroke of good luck in our military operation.I blinked my eyes at her several times as she delivered this sentence in a cool tone, but rather than a punishment, for me this was a reward. The idiot.Seeming to not have read that though in my mind, the fancy door opened like an automatic door and I was deposited outside with a *Plop!* falling on my head.*************************************************************Although I tried to catch up on sleep on the Sagittarius, I was, as expected, jet-lagged on the first day. It was because the time difference between Tokyo and New York was a negative 14 hours. It was almost a complete reversal of night and day.So, after connecting with the G-3 League, I went to the spacious living roomOnii-chan, your face is red.I was kicked.While saying that, I played 501 darts with Kaname and Reki to deal with the drowsiness.It wasn't really that fun. Reki naturally took the shortest way, scoring 180, 180, and 141 via a set of 3 triple 20's, 3 triple 20's, then a triple 20, triple 19, and double 12, in just 9 darts, and Kaname matched her. It took me about 30 darts to match them.It was 2100 in New YorkReki had fallen asleep by the window without a word. She was clutching her knees, as per usual, and her Dragunov sniper rifle. It seems that her biological clock has a corrective reset function.When the darts stopped keeping me awake, I disassembled my Beretta to perform simple maintenance in order to stay awake.Then Kaname came over to help me.Onii-chan, why do you keep the 92-type Beretta? Why not the 93R?There aren't that many of those guns in Japan. The main body and its unique parts are expensive, the time between required servicing is short, and it isn't very concealable. The 92 has been used in more than a few conflicts in the world and it's been shown to be reliable. On top of that, the full-auto modification has about the same performance *Yawn!*My words mingled with a yawn, thenA man with a similar face to mine and a larger, more muscular body appeared and yawned.Aniki, go to sleep. No one except my comrades ever come here, so I don't have a guest room on this floor, so you can sleep in my room.Ah, is that G-3? I didn't recognise him for a moment because he had taken off his face paint and let his hair down.**************************************************************Once we reached the penthouse that was full of a varied assortment of sculptures and paintingsG-3 gave me a robe-like set of pyjamas, and he laid down in a set of black briefs.My drowsiness had reached a maximum, and I laid down next to my brother who was fast asleep on the huge bed that could have slept an elephantThen I awoke at 1000 to the most unpleasant sound of a spatula striking a frying pan in some kind oflittle sister alarm.Moooorning, Oniiiii-chaaaan!Forced to wakefulness by a sailor-suited Kaname, I was forced to dress while drowsyYou sleep so late, Aniki! The early bird gets the worm! It's an American saying.In the morning sun, G-3 was doing push-ups on the granite floor.Stripped to the waist, I could see the joint between his shoulder and his artificial left hand It looks like he is tuning the calibration of strength between his right and left arms as well as engaging in calisthenics.The injuries he got from Mash hadn't healed completely, but he had made a considerable recovery. That's what you'd expect from a Tohyama man, we're able to take a lot of punishment.Standing by the wall in the spacious room, Tsukumo held a change of clothes for G-3, ready to hand them to him. Despite the fact that she had kicked me yesterday, she showed no restraint looking at G-3's half-naked body.Huffing in satisfaction and breathing wildly through her nose, her eyes turned into hearts.Today's Sunday. We've already been out and back again, but shouldn't you go to church, Aniki?Church?I'm Catholic. Atlas is Protestant. Luca is Russian Orthodox. Angus is Jewish. Collins is Muslim. Tsukumo is Shinto.If I had to say I would say that my beliefs are a mix of Shinto and Buddhism. But I'm not that religious. No more than the average Japanese person, anyway.I don't get it at all. Japan is a strange country.G-3 said as he pushed himself up onto one fingersuspending himself above the floor.Then he let himself down and took a towel from Tsukumo with a rustle to mop up his sweat.Much the same as their religion, G-3's followers were a microcosm of America and a veritable salad bowl.The Asian G-3, the West European Atlas, the African Collins, Middle Eastern Angus, and the Eastern European Luca. Their races were Mongoloid, Caucasian, Black, and Other Kitsune.Hey, Aniki! Those clothes suit you pretty well, huh? They're mine.Taking armour from Tsukumo, he thumbed in my direction?Looking at my own reflection in the window. Wow that's bright! I fell back onto the bed in shock.It was something that Kaname always wanted me to wear, and G-3 had worn in NaritaIt was a multi-toned rock star-like suit in white and gold.Wh-what the heck! You've got to be joking! Give me back my uniform! This is the kind of flashy clothes you'd wear!They were originally John Travolta's! It won't be a problem to wear just for today, will it? Just for a job we have later today. Yeah, I gave your bulletproof uniform to Angus earlier for cleaning. You'll get it back tomorrowA job? What is it?You look great, Onii-chan! Fufu!You're laughing, Kaname!I aimed a drop kick with both my white, bell-bottomed feet at Kaname, and G-3 retreatedThere really being no help for it, I said:Well, the clothes are pretty warm.In a change of opinion, I headed into the living room.Once there, looking outside the window I saw Reki standing on the terrace.As if she was engaged in some kind of telepathy, she turned her face toward the Manhattan sky with her eyes closedWhat are you doing? I'm used to your usual strange behaviour, but you aren't sleeping while standing up are you? You'll catch a cold.Being cold, I only opened the door halfway to ask about her strange behaviour. I was listening to the voice of the Wind.Turning around to look at me, she had no absolutely reaction to my clothes.This lack of any response, in contrast, is actually pretty mentally devastating. Even Riko would point and laugh at me, and that would be better than this.But wellEver since the time we parted at Tokyo Station, it seems that Reki is back in contact withThe Wind.Because I didn't want to deal with it, I ignored it in Ikebukuro and Sugamo, but I had started to suspect something.Because we had come to New York to deal with something related to irokane, it all fell into place.In Kyoto, I heard from Shirayuki and Kazayuki that Reki was the ririirokane miko.Back in the spring, at The Wind's direction, she watched me, Aria, and Shirayuki like a hawkall people with a connection to irokane despite the fact that there were S-ranked Butei in that list.But it was still all half guesswork, so:When you sayThe Winddo you mean ririirokane?I voiced my suspicions*Nod!*Reki nodded.I knew it!Based on that information I pieced together information I had learned in Hysteria Mode.At the Hotogi shrine, they said thatririirokane hates human emotions.That is to say:hihiirokane loves the violent emotions of love and warand possesses the totally opposite nature.Reki continuing to live life with a total lack of emotion fits with her role as miko for ririirokane.Aria's passionate personality suited her awakened hidan.There seems to be some kind of symmetry here.And that likely meansRiriirokane and hihiirokane are in direct opposition. Like magnets.When we left Tokyo, she reminded me on the last day of summer vacationwhen it was just the two of us on the rooftop of INQUESTA, she said:You shouldn't get too close.Ordering me to keep away from Aria.Back at the monorail station, she had stabbed Aria with a bayonet, just to keep us apart.Reki had wanted to get close to me, replacing Aria in some kind of bride-snatching operation.But as a result of such actionsHer emotions had begun to bud, and she had betrayed ririirokane and allowed Aria and I to continue our partnership. Reki had accepted that.Whatever happens in the end, will happen.She said, seemingly resigned to the fact.As a result, Aria had become possessed.Reki knew that would happen. As someone with control over ririirokane that was in direct opposition to hihiirokane.The Windhad told her that.In that case, then there could be absolutely no doubt. ThereforeThe Windririirokane had it's own will. What's more, it was in direct opposition to hihiirokane.What it wanted was unclear, but based on the hihiirokane and the Scarlet Goddess relationship she definitely exists. The Cyan Goddess.That is how it is.According to Kanae-san's theory there may be a Sapphire Goddess living inside ruruirokane, the third kind of irokane, that we were trying to stealAccording to Reki's account, that is very probable. That's what she's saying.There was that kind of irokane and this kind of irokane. There were all kinds of mysteries around us.Fate I mulled over my Nii-san's words from Nogizaka, and Reki and I locked eyes in Manhattan and IBecause of the gaudy clothing, the moment lack all seriousness.Well, that might just suit me.It wasn't my destiny to look cool.*****************************************************While we were taking brunch, I received a message from Aria.It seems that she arrived in London safely, and there was a picture attached of her in Baker Street Station on the Underground making an *Ahem!* gesture with her hand against her non-existent chest. On the wall behind her, there was a silhouette of her grandfather, the 19th century English national hero, Sherlock Holmes. It looked like she was bragging a bit.But she looked well, and that relieved me slightlyJust after noon, I went with G-3 on hisjob. Still wearing the fancy suit.G-3 was wearing a Judge Dredd-like costume, but that was alright, since all his followers dressed in a flashy manner today as well.Angus was wearing a bow tie and tailcoat. Atlas wore a sci-fi armoured helmet, and Collins' was encrusted with a lot of diamonds. Luca wore a long, silver coat. Kaname was wearing a Yankees blouson with a ballcap on her head, and is that caramel scent? She was blowing bubble gum bubbles.What's this? Why is everyone dressed up like this?I asked G-3 as we passed a supermarket and the others followed in their cars behind usI'm American. I have civic obligations.?Aniki, it's an important job. You could say being a hero is the most important job.G-3 who had gotten into the Orochi said this joke with a straight face.It seemed that this costume parade held some kind of sense of duty.I thought it was going to be far because we had gotten into the car, but we arrived at our destination in 5 minutes.It was the large public greenspace, Central Park, located at the heart of the planned city of Manhattan.Why did we even take a car? We could have walked, couldn't we!?Braving the winter, performers and hot dog cart vendors spared us a glance as we entered the park. Then we pulled off and stopped at the side of the road near what looked like a somewhat large open spaceThen we were greeted eagerly by a group of children.Wha!? A lively group of kids assembledI soon understood, there were kids scattered here and there missing arms, legs, and a few using canes. They were all poor as well.Standing in front of these children, G-3 saidYou gonna keep me waiting, kiddos! I'm back!Jumping up, a little black boywho I noticed had a hearing aidwas scooped up and placed on top of his shoulder.Then there was a *Hiss!*, and powered by compressed air, G-3's left prosthetic hand separated at the wrist and flew through the air like a rocket It grabbed a balloon stuck in a tree that a little girl with thick glasses was staring up at.Connected to his left arm by a non-combustible wire, he reeled it back in, giving them children a thumbs-upThen the children began to badger him, and he started telling stories about defeating villains all over the world.In Sumatra there was this drug factory disguised as a shampoo factory, and when I destroyed it, the local mafia set a hungry Sumatran tiger after me. But the tiger hadn't done anything wrong, and it was an endangered species. So I beat it up with my bare hands!It was quite a violent story, but they all listened with sparkling eyes and the overblown reactions of Americans. They seem to like this kind of story, after all.G-3 sat there, casually teaching them about the dangers of drugs and the importance of conservationI can tell that they are thoroughly enjoying themselves without needing any explanation.Even though he's missing an arm, it doesn't stop G-3 from fighting all over the world, despite his handicap, and he's these children's hero.Even though he's my idiot little brother, he's bringing them hope like a Paralympic athlete.Hey! Who's that in the white clothes? Some new henchman?A boy in a wheelchair asked, pointing at meNah! That's my Aniki! He came from Japan, just to meet you all!G-3 said, introducing me with exaggerated gesticulation. Then,G-3's older brother!?Cool!Really!? He even wears clothes like you! Hey, where's he fought?Oh That's why he wanted me to wear these flashy clothes.I was just in Europe, and Hong Kong before that but I usually fight in Japan. My boss had pink hair, and she'll shoot at me for no reason, like a villainous heroine!I answered, and with a *Whoa!* , they started looking at me just like they looked at G-3, like a hero. I see. This is the job he was talking about Pretending to be a superhero for these kids.Is your brother stronger than you, G-3?The group of kids now crowding around me asked suddenYeah! Due to a tragic twist of fate, we fought in the sky above Tokyo. But even I wasn't able to beat my superman Aniki,Enable, who can hit back missiles with his bare hands!In response to this declaration all the children's' eyes widened and they chorused:Enable is so coooool!It seemed that my popularity among the boys especially had grownAfter that I had a busy time carrying them around on my shoulders, then I took my place as 4th in line in the baseball game they setup on the grass.With a laugh, Atlas struck out on purpose, taking a full swing at the balls they threw, and as Kaname cheerfully stepped in as the relief pitcher, Reki absently guarded the outfieldAs I waited my turn in the batting order, I asked G-3 a question in Japanese.Where do these kids come from?They live in New York, but they go to school over there.G-3 pointeddown past the parked motorcade down the street across Central Park. Now that I'm looking at it, it differed from my mental image of a school in Japanbut the ground floor seemed to be a school for the disabled.G-3 Memorial Elementary Schoolthe sign says. Did you build it?Nah. That school was about to go bankrupt, and I knew the area, so I just lent them some money. Then they just gave it that name. The bastards.Slightly embarrassed, G-3 scratched the back of his headIn America, there are a lot of places with names attached to them where someone has done something notable, so it's not that odd.G-3 said itwas about to go bankrupt, and that can happen in America. I've seen it on the newscast.Unlike Japan, expensive public services receive large subsidies and can run out of money in this strict, money-conscious country.Because of that, schools and even hospitals, can be ruthlessly shut down in the case of a budget shortage. Even an ambulance won't carry someone who can't pay. When prisons run out of money and shut down, they will release the prisoners. It's easy to imagine what might happen to these kids if their school closed down.7No, that's a good name for the school. You're really like a teacher.It really isn't that big a deal. I'm not a teacher or anything. But those kids shouldn't grow up thinking they can't do anything. Sometimes, they need to be told the opposite. I can do that, and you can too. That's it.Hmph! Then let's do that, huh?What's with the look? Stop grinning! I'll hit you!What kind of lesson would it be if they saw the two of us brothers fighting?I said, defusing the situation as G-3 ground his teeth and turned red.He's American, but the blood of Tohyama no Kin-san, the ally of Justice flows in his veins.Both my father and Nii-san were too kind to overlook the weak or children in need. He's the same way.Despite the fact we were going to fight a terrifying oni, it was good for not only his followers to help take care of these children.He was kind to those weaker than himself. He might be more like my father than I am.Well, anyway. That's my, uh Personal principle. Yeah, my personal principle. The principle thatEveryone should receive an education. And a good one too! Without an education, people become bad people.Yeah, I agree.Despite the fact that I attend Butei High that has the worst education in Japan, I have to support this.G-3, who was a Genion created by the US military's whimhe received the best and the hardest educational instruction, but the implication is that everyone should get a basic level of education. That's what he meant.But recently the teacher of that school has changed. They made the old bat who taught there before retire because of her age Huh?G-3 continued with slightly bitter expression as he looked toward the school?I looked over as wellFrom G-3 Memorial Elementary School, a blonde woman who could be identified as a nun by her clothes came out.The kindly looking sister entered the parkthen with quick steps came over to G-3.Third-san. You've come to play with the children again. My deepest thanks.The young nun crossed herself. She looked older than us, but she had to be in her teens. Even without makeup of any kind, she was beautiful.This must have been the person he was talking about. The new teacher. You could tell with how familiar the children are to her.But standing next to me, G-3 started acting strangely.Ohwellnot at all, Sister Maria. Uhwhat a pleasant surprise! I just so happened to have some free time, and I was passing by the neighbourhood that's all.The typically assertive and self-assured G-3Right under my very eyes, was on the back foot.Was he trying to hide his artificial arm and was the face paint meant to hide the injuries to his face?Is that so? Then that was truly very fortunate. However Third-san. Your arm and armour look different than they did before? Were you fighting someone again?With a hard look at G-3, Sister Maria looked disappointed.No, that well that is to say, yes, butOh, I see! G-3 is weak against older women, just like me.I don't know how to treat girls my own age, and as for older girlsI don't have even the vaguest idea how to deal with them. Blood will always tell, brother.I always pray that God will protect you. However, I know that in your line of work, you are bound to be hurt. When I consider that a dark abyss of anxiety wells up inside of meAt this even deeper expression of concern, G-3 looked up at Maria-sanSister Maria loves G-3~!A small black girl declared with a grinning face.Whereupon, *Sproing!* Maria-san sprang into the air, turning red and nervously fanning herself with her hands.N-n-no! That is not the case! Th-this gentleman is far, far beyond one such as I!Wha! I understand now. Hyperventilating, her voice trailed off. Just looking at her makes me feel embarrassed.It appears to be an unrequited love, and G-3's head sagged toward the groundI sensed some kind of bloodlust as Tsukumo's ears bristled, and she glowered at Sister Maria from the outfield, I understand. Actually, It seems that G-3 is cursed with bad luck with women. Even here on the other side of the world. Blood tells.**************************************************************Returning to G-3 Tower as it became nightI was given a black suit with a vest to wear. It came with a black coat and a black trilby.Wearing a matching set of clothes and standing next to me, G-3 and I looked exactly like Prohibition Era gangsters.Angus wore a tuxedo, and Atlas and Collins were decked out in white and purple suitsWhere are we going this time?A Hero union party. You're going to be my escort, Onii-chan.Heroes in America have a union? That's pretty open.Well, even if it was fine, she was clinging to my arm, soKaname, you're wearing a V-neck dress. Isn't that showing a bit much of your chest?Oh my! How lecherous for you to look at your sister's breasts. How indecent.In response to this rebuke, she actually pressed herself more against mewearing an evening dress. She was wearing a Japanese designer, Tadashi Shoji, branded dress, popular among the young socialites of New York. Despite the fact that she was a junior high student, she was wearing a sexy dress that made her look like a hostess in a high-price host club.Maybe this was the reason why Kaname, Tsukumo, Luca, and Reki, as a group of 4, were trying to find matching underwear last night the others wore Donna Karen, Nicole Miller and other famously branded evening dresses. Interestingly enough, each of their dresses matched the colour of their hair, was strapless to expose their shoulders, and exposed their back down to their buttocksYou. Aren't going to wear those dresses are you? You'll get cold. It's winter.I grumbled an objection to something I should never have seen.You ignoramus. This is the dress code, so we have to wear these. For a party held after 6 PM, women are expected to wear revealing formal wear. Without sleeves. Exposing a lot of her chest and back. With a long hemline. Made of lace or satin. With gem or pearl accessories. That's just common sense.Standing next to Tsukumo and using her as a model, Luca indicated each item with a pointed finger, glaring at me while wearing a small, peacock feather hat with a draping tulle.The fashionable Luca who opened a beauty parlour in her own rooms, also dealt with their make-up as well. Beautiful girls were already a problem for me, but now these super beautiful girls are a super problem. Why do girls use make-up to to double their beauty like some kind of Kaio-ken?8******************************************************Heading down Broadway towards Times Square, we headed toward the packed midtownto 9th Street.We got out at a white-walled, designer hotel called Hudson New York. Due to his notoriety, the entryway doors were thrown open wide, and we went up the entryway escalator.Forced to be her escort, I was forced to enter with Kaname on my arm. It was embarrassing.Tsukumo was anxiously looking toward G-3 with an expression ofPlease be my escort, meanwhile G-3 didn't notice at all and made a brash entrance alone. How insensitive. Even less than me.Then when we entered the party, directly inside the entrance, there was a device to blow air up the girls skirts. This surprising device was an homage to Marylin Monroe'sThe Seven Year Itch.. Who would make such a thing! I seriously want to hit you.Having their skirts blown up was rather risky, so Reki alone was unaffected The rest of the girls blushed red while smiling. The VIPs of the Hero Union were laughing brightly in the assembly hall. American humour. I don't understand it.The party venue was lit softly and also below through frosted glass. There were also many coloured cocktails, wines, beers, and expensive liquor from around the world for the guests. There was a specially constructed kitchen area by one of the walls, and the seemingly skilled chefs were preparing and arranging so much food that it completely filled my field of vision.The sharp disparity of wealth in this country was quickly understoodTherichare extravagant.I don't know how much the union dues are, but they rented a modern hotel and provided an all you can drink bar and buffet.G-3 is a friend to the weak and a member of the strong.And these people I can tell at a glance that they are all strong.As a union of real American heroes, they were all fit, tough-looking, and good looking. Their fighting strength was naturally high. In the context of Butei High, they exuded the same vibe as MASTERS. As someone who wanted nothing more than a normal life, these were hardly the kind of people I wanted to associate with. If I did, then Id definitely be caught up in a fight for Justice.However, G-3started greeting people all over the fancy hall in a jovial manner, leaving his subordinates behind:The only people here are armed experts that have met a certain level of skill, experience, and proficiencies. There are also a few S-Rank Butei scattered around, so you should be able to make some connections.He urged me to join the hero union.I really have to decline. Due to my association with a certain S-Rank Butei with 2 names, my lifespan has decreased by 20 years.It really looks like you're on the outs with the Japanese government, Aniki. If you ever have to flee Japan, you should be ready to take the American battlefield. Everyone here is usually involved in some kind of big fight.G-3 stood next to me, saying things I didn't want to hear, but if no one tries to engage me, I guess I'll be okay. If they do, I'll just chatter on about nothing.9 I don't know anyone anyway.That's Batto Hino over there! I want to get his autograph.I said, shaking off G-3 I took out my Butei Handbook to get the autograph of this legendary Butei, but no sooner than I had, he disappeared.Looking around, Tsukumo had made her way to the dessert nook, and she had gotten a large parfait the size of a vase Luca was carrying a Cinderella cocktail glass, and Atlas was talking excitedly with each guest, glass of milk in hand, in a way that didn't suit his body builder image.Seemingly liking parties, Collins was on the dance floor doing a rendition of a Michael Jackson dance, and Kaname was singing a song, microphone in hand.Somehow, this feels like the masquerade ball in Paris.But this gathering has a more national character. It seems livelier, and it looks like in America, the more energetic and outgoing the person is, the more popular they are. That's my armchair observation. I don't fit that model.In the first place, they are all speaking English, and I don't know anyone. As for parties, themselvesI don't like them. At least, not unless it is at a Japanese-style party of friends.And so I was uncomfortableOh, look over there. One other person is totally isolated.It's Reki.Sitting in a chair with her legs drawn up and shrinking into her seat., she was becoming a wallflower.Joining her in her solitude, I headed over to herShe was in her usual, doll-like statebut what's this?With the evening dress exposing her shoulders, back, and the upper third of her chest, she looked sexy.The thin silk material was designed to cling to her skin and accentuate the curves of her body but right now, she looks a bit more feminine than I have seen her before.Although she isn't typically fashion conscious, she was wearing make-up, but it had no effect. Her natural face was naturally beautiful, and the soft lighting was in effectS-She was very beautiful to look at. No, she was naturally very beautiful.In a very out-of-character moment, she gave the impression of awoman, and IR-Reki. Are you going to eat something? It's all-you-can-eat, so holding back will be your loss.I said to try to hide my fluster.No thank-you.As she turned slightly to face me, Tiffany earrings sparkled in her earsHer womanly expression caused my heart to race again.It wasn't the feeling of hysterising, but rather the fluster of having a beautiful woman in front of me, so the risk of slipping was low, but it was still uncomfortable. Dealing with beautiful women is not something I'm good at.I have already consumed enough nourishment for the night, so that is satisfactory.Oh. She pulled a CalorieMate out of nowhere. So Reki was fine.But saying that, I looked around apart from Tsukumo who had gotten another parfait, many of the heroes here are not really touching much of the food.Is it an idiosyncrasy of American armed personnel that they watch what they eat at parties?Even though they spend a bunch of time in idiotic exuberant expression, they seem to live the rest of their lives with the constant vigilance of the battlefield.But I'm an eater.If you don't eat when you want to, you'll just pile up stress and eventually become ill. What's more, there's a feast in front of me. What's more, it's free food.Unlike my brother who pays hundreds of millions to the government, I'm constantly running out of money.So, leaving Reki and heading toward the food counterAiming to satisfy the needs of my stomach with all kinds of delicacies, I headed towards them.From the way they were moving, I could tell that the chefs were all top tier. There was an assortment of meat dishes on a golden tray: salmon carpaccio with caviar garnish, shrimp salad, and others.. Each of which glittered.But as an all-you-can-eat connoisseur, these beautiful appetisers just whetted my appetite.I should have gone for the heart of the meal. The main courseThere it is!I discovered my main objective.The genuine American T-bone steak.Apart from my otherwise poor opinion of AmericaWhen it comes to American steak , my opinion is simple. However, it is hard to cook properly.With steak, the taste is something hard to replicate. When it comes to ingredients for cooking it, how you cut the meat changes the texture. It is the ultimate test of a chef's powers of versatility and skill.Naturally, the steak was prime beef.The flesh to the right of the bone was a sirloin, and to the left were fillets, the supreme cut of meat.First, I stared fixedly at the chef who was roasting the steak with an expression more serious than one engaged in battle.Noticing my intense shouting, the black chef with an Afro and the sharp glint in his eye bespoke his commitment.Cook one for me. I'll have your best.But of course. It is my job to keep you heroes in good healthby my cooking. That is how I protect the world as a hero.He's a professional. From what he said, he must take a lot of pride in his work.He picked up the meat with his thick fingersThis is the country of showbiz, and he started cooking the meat in front of me.There it was! The subtle scent of fine quality beef tallow wafted up.This is the once-in-a-lifetime chance for one of the common masses like me to taste the ultimate steak. There can be no doubt of this.Then the Afroed chef placed the steak on a gilded plateWithout giving it time to cool, he quartered it with a knife, and it spread open like a flower. It was magnificent.Thank-you for this.Enjoy, brother.Taking the plate from the chef, he gave me a thumbs-up as I walked awayCrossing over to a round table draped in snow white cloth, I set the plate down and picked up the fork and knife, ready to assume the appropriate table manners.*Swish!* Looking up toward the ceiling, I loosened my necktie.The time is commin'!I'm about to have the best meal in my entire life, right nowI thought this as I looked back down at the tableHuh?It's gone! The steak! And the plate!Incredible! Thanks Onii-chan!Yeah. They used Grade A beef!Looking over my shoulder from where these voices cameWha!?Kaname! And Tsukumo! They stood on both sides of me and had taken the plate and wolfed down the steak. Both the fillet and the sirloin.****************************************************Was I born under a star that doesn't allow me to eat delicious things? I didn't get to eat any of the Imperial Feast at Rampan Castle eitherThe prime cuts of meat of the T-bone steak was gone, due to Kaname and Tsukumo's sudden whim.Finished with his work, the Afroed chef retired into the back with a satisfied face.Everyone else in the hall thought it was a performance, while I vented my frustrations by body slamming Kaname and Tsukumo 20 times eachand most of the food staff retired.What remained was the liquor bar. I sat and pushed at the caviar appetiser with a spoon without eating it. The sushi train salted salmon roe was better, to be honest.I soon lost interest in sucking at the T-bone left on my plate like a hyenaI want to go home now.I was really dispirited.Hey, G-3.It wasn't exactly a bunny girl, but it was a little girl wearing something like a Doronjo-esque10costume with a mantle that addresses G-3. Having carefully arranged her hair, it looked like her heart was pounding as she smiled.There were all kinds of people wearing American comic book hero and super hero-like costumes scattered here and thereI wasn't surprised by her clothes, but when I realised she was talking to me, I furrowed my eyebrows.Huh? I made a mistake. Who're you?G-3's older brother.Huh!? Older brother? Where's G-3?The mini-Doronjo goggled around, looking for G-3Drat!Tutting her tongue and sulking It looks like she really wanted to meet him. He's really popular. I wonder if he's popular with a lot of girls? But he's pretty thick-headed. As his older brother, I'm worried that he might not notice a girl's attentions and wound their heart.It looks like this mini-Doronjo would be the kind of person he'd have woman trouble with, so I won't tell herShe left and went off somewhere.An older brother knows his younger brother. From the start, he hadn't gotten too involved, and instead left it to his subordinates to do as they saw fit and sequestered himself somewhere.I'm going to do the same.***************************************************Descending the yellow escalator alone to the Hudson Soft HotelI thought you'd come, Aniki.Somehow my younger brother knew what I'd do, and he stood in the neon light.I had learned 2 secrets about my younger brotherYou're really a nice guy, aren't you?I said, drawing my coat closer around me and puffing out a white cloud.Why d'you say that?I'll get to the second later, but here's the first: This party. You wanted your subordinates to make connections so that they could find re-employment, didn't you? With all that is going on with the ruruirokane you think that you might die in the operation..Well If it's you asking, yeah. Mash is stronger than me.Is he such a powerhouse that he can make G-3 say this? This enemy?Even so, as the older brother I have to say this.Don't worry. You've got me with you.That's why I had come here. To find out how the ruruirokane was related to Aria's hihiirokane.Then G-3 slid into a parked taxi cab and plopped himself down, and I sat beside himPassing multi-coloured neon English signs, we then turned onto Broadway and 83rd streetAniki. You recognise this spot?Yeah. I saw it inYou've Got Mail. Amazing! This is where Meg Ryan and Tom Hanks met up!It was the Cafe Lalo in the Upper Westside.It was an old-fashioned French coffee shop that you'd pass by if you didn't know it was there.Right. They shot the scene right here.Seemingly having heard of my love of movies from Kaname, G-3 went ahead up the steps and opened the door to go inside.It was winter in that movie too. I know it well.Because I loved the actors, I had a DVD of the film, but.Now that we are on location, it was a bit moving.Here. Look at this seat. This is where Tom Hanks sat. Hey, G-3! Take a picture of me with your mobile's camera.You're such a fanboy.Grabbing two colas, my brother took Meg Ryan's seat.No matter what, this was a great experience. This place wasn't just well-known for it's Hollywood fame alone. It was also a famous cafe.It had high ceilings and a classically decorated interior. I liked it.In New York, things happen on their own timetable. There are more happenings than other cities, so it becomes rather busy. But you can't write the character forbusywithout using the one forheart11. Inside this shop, time seems to slow down. I can just lose myself.Sinking back into the chair with a *Creak!*, G-3 stretched out his legs and started saying thisThis metropolis has all kinds of events, and if you were to try to chase them all, before you knew it, you'd be an old man. Sometimes this is said of Tokyo as well.Because it was an entirely rural town with not much happening, when I spent time with Lisa in Bourtange, time seemed to pass slowly.In a place in the city that has existed without changing in 100 years you should take your time more slowly. I should do that.But I can't.You noticed, Aniki.While pouring the cola into a glass, G-3 indicated the thing he was talking aboutI had already noticed it in the reflection of the glass, using it as a mirror.He had been following us from the Hudson Hotel,a strange boy.It was a scrawny, short, middle-school aged Caucasian boy.He looked like Bill Gates turned into a child. He had a mushroom-like haircut that made him look top-heavy. Gold-rimmed glasses sat on his long nose, and he was carrying what looked like a small camera. A set of dental braces glinted dully in the light. He wore a dull coat and suit. In his hand was the latest version of the iPhone.I had noticed him due to his clumsy surveillance The little brat lacked the necessary awareness. He had followed us this far. Bunglingly tailing us.The stalker boy bought a bag of potato crisps. Even though he ate some of the leftovers at the union hall meeting.That's why I made such a rude exit. This is an important party for my followers. So I wanted to lure him away.That's the second kind thing you've done.It's fine, Aniki. He's come to kill me. He is definitely a problem for you and me.Do you know him? Who is he?That's Mash.?That mushroom boy?This was the Mash that had beaten G-3 within an inch of his life?Really, thatMash-room head? G-3, I don't really get your American humourIt's not a joke. He's the strongest man in America.Don't you mean the weakest?Mash putting a bag of Lay's Classic, salsa dip, and a small cola on a tray, while grinningHe headed straight for our table.It's true is this brat really Mash?My sense of smell is pretty good, but the scent of gunpowder was completely absent. As if he had never fired a gun in his life.May I share this table?His voice was high-pitched. For some reason, the way he spoke was disturbing.He took a seat without waiting for permissionWelcome to America G-2. How's the old arm doing, G-3?It was Mash.Oh, yeah. G-2. Lower your head a bit when you hit the ball and your batting form will improve. And G-3, you really shouldn't delete messages from women without reading them.Had he seen me playing baseball in Central Park?I'd noticed him watching us at the party, but not before then.And I had no idea how he had intercepted the communications for G-3's mobile.This enoki-headed boy was no ordinary person.Nice to meet you. I'm Mash Roosevelt from the National Security Agencythe NSA.He greeted me in his high-pitched voice and held out his hand for a handshake but I couldn't find a callus from holding a gun on the pad of his thumb or index finger. This hand had not held a gun.After 3 seconds of not returning the handshake had passed, he took his hand back, still smiling.The two of you are truly a magnificent pairan optimal case study. We are able to glean the best data from you. Thank-you.On top of the glasses on his pale face there wasWhat was probably an HMD. It was like the Dragon Ball scouter-esue device that G-3 used, only miniaturised, a Neue Ange device. There was a hole for a camera.He was definitely recording us right now.What kind of organisation is the NSA? Is it like the FBI?I asked, purposefully scowling at the camera.Don't you know? Even though the cabinet is considering establishing such an agency in Japan? That was a bit rude. The FBI is a boring agency that catches one petty criminal at a time. They can't even deal with the Mafia. Actually I am one of what would be called the privileged class. In terms of the Department of Defence, I'm a brigadier general; in terms of the NYPD, I'm on the level of a bureau chief; and in terms of the CIA, I have the authority of a technical assurance chief. No matter which government agency office I walk into. The FBI has a similar arrangement, so I suppose I must answer yes' to your question.I received this very roundabout answer.From the way G-3 was sulking, I knew he wasn't joking. From his explanationthis boy was like an super-evolved form of Zenigata from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Far from being a fringe government employee, he was like a mini-chief executive occupying a key post at the centre of government power.The age of the boy to whom such power was granted could be counted on a set of fingers. PerhapsYou're a Genion, aren't you?That was a pretty quick guess for your IQ. Correct. I'm a successful example of the Los Alamos Elite. TheGseries was a flop, and I am a member of the newer class of gene enriched programthe third in theRseries R-3, if you will. Don't worry. Your father, Konza Tohayama's genes were not used. He was lacking the minimum IQ.Los Alamos EliteThat must be the US Military's program to create superhuman weapons with superior genes.They used my father's genes to create G-3 and Kanamemy younger brother and sister that excelled infighting power.But it looks like this guy was made according to a different pattern the DNA selected to create him excelled inbrain power.Mash then adjusted his glasses and launched into an IT business sale-like pitchNow then, in place of a proper greeting, I'll make this presentation. Its title isThree Reasons None of You Can Beat MeFirst, G-2. Are you aware that there are two major political parties in the United States?Picking up a crisp, he asked me this stupid question.I know that. There's the Republicans and, uh the other one. What is the other one? By the way, my name is Kinji Tohyama. Don't call me by that strange name.Got it. I'll tell you, Kinji. G-3's support comes from the head of the Republican party. I'm backed by the Democratic party. Right now, the Democraic party is in power in the United States. Your position in this country is weaker than mine.Now I understand what G-3's had said in the Orochi aboutalliesandenemiesHe meant it in a political context.Due to the negligence of the FBI, G-3 has been allowed to run amok as some kind ofchaos, and I am what society would callorder. After G-3 went wild and escaped from Los Alamos, I rose up the ranks one step at a time.From the way he is talkingMash's true motivation is a personal vendetta against G-3.G-3's power is Force. Mine is Intelligence. Intelligence is superior to force, and it has the capability to include it. With just one twist of information, I can start or stop a war. G-3's method of deterrence using your own strength is a 20th century idea.Yeah, you're right. Humph!Raising his cola to his lips, G-3 slouched further down in his chair.In contrast, Mash's eyes gleamed like a new moon, and he stretched himself up to his full, but short heightYou aren't the heroes in the 21st century. I am.Between new and old versions of the Genion, he wanted to establish his newer existence as superior.Now then, Kinji. I've seen the recordingand you are some kind of incredible charlatan.Changing the target of his attack, I raised my eyebrows.Charlatan?Grabbing bullets with your bare hands, deflecting air-to-air missiles Even G-3 or any peace-loving Japanese couldn't do this, even if they were trained in the United States. From the video, you appeared to do so, but it has to be some kind of trick. You've even been able to fool the entire Butei communityI wonder if you've been tricking them to raise your SDA ranking?You could do it, so I'd appreciate it if you could delete my name from the ranks of those who have ceased to be human. I've ignored it anyway. You could do it with your knack for information manipulation.I could do so, and you would immediately cease to exist on that list. If I killed you, for example.There is also another, tougher ranking system apart from your silly little SDA rankings, for us boys and girls in the privileged class. If asked by a senator with political power killing a hostile Genion in the top 100 rankings of the SDA would be quite the coup.Is that why you want to fight us? To get ahead in your career, to score political points? You tiny humans are all the same. Selfish and egotistical.Don't underestimate me just because of my physical appearance. The shortest path to a high point, is taking it one small step up at a time. You two are the next 2 steps to take me to the next floorthen I'll have major general status.What will you do then?Take on Afghanistan and Syria. That should get me to lieutenant general, then there's Iran and North Korea. That should just get me to general. I wonder if I'll ask your country for help after the necessary legal process? Especially for the second part.You're talking about war?I'm talking about a successful Pax Americana. It's simply a continuation of what has been happening since the end of World War Two. Then, after my plans are completewhen I take office in 2033, I will be the youngest President in history. The United States will be the most powerful and affluent since it's founding and all other countries with be tributary states.If this person becomes PresidentIt will be the end of the world.That's Hakkou Ichui.12We Japanese graduated from such an idea more than 60 years ago.I brushed away Mash's grand visions of the future that he was weaving with a self-satisfied smirk on his face.You haven't graduated, you've dropped out. By my calculations, we can achieve Pax Americana if the Dow-Jones Index is 4.3 times its current level, and per capita earnings of the American people is 4.7 times their current level. You called me selfish and egotisticalbut my success in life has the best interests of the United States in mind.That's just dissembling.Dissembling is a virtue.Mash pooh pooh-ed my words with a condescending grin like an older person might, despite being youngerHowever Both you and G-3 are very reliable in some aspects. That is why I have used some of my valuable time to come meet with you. I want the two of you to become my subordinates. I would give G-3 another suitable government post again. And you would have a permanent residence in the United States.Before fighting and killing he came to recruit us?You want us to be your servants? I got a similar offer from the Chinese and Japanese yakuza. You want to use me as some kind of hitman?Something like that. I thought you could deal with Osama bin Laden. But from what you're saying, I understand if you refuse. What about G-3? We could ride the train to glory together. You must know that this is the final departure call for the last train.Dismissing my answer, he turned his imperious gaze to G-3Then I'll be seeing you off. I don't work well on tracks laid down by others. I've already had enough of Los Alamos.In that answer, his original hostilitywas readily apparent.Mash remained completely silent for precisely 3 secondsWhat an unfortunate waste. Truly, such an unfortunate waste.He said in clearly enunciated Japanese and snapped his fingers with a *Snap!*.Then*Creak!**Creak!*That's!I remembered her, that small girlWith another set of creaks, the floorboards of Cafe Lalo bent under her weight.Then without saying anything sat down at our table, next to Mash.*Creeeak!*The wooden chair warped under her weight. She was heavy. She was wearing a coat, but I couldn't see any heavy armaments concealed inside. She must really be heavy. 200 kilos at least.She's not human.LOO!She spoke a name I had not heard in a long time.LOO had come to Daiba's Empty Island last year in October for FEW's Bandire, and I had seen this humanoid close-combat mech disguised as a little girl embark.She operated a tank with dual US Vulcan cannons that were destroyed by Aria in her escape, and she held rank in the US Army. I knew she came from America so I met her here once more.After confirming that this was the same mechanised doll, LOORemained silent.It was just like Reki. No, it lacked any trace of human kindness.On Empty Island, I had the impression of low intelligence, but she was acting in a human manner.Right now, she looks like a gynoid. I could perceive slight motions meant to keep her balance, but the total lack of expression on her face waseerily disturbing.Her hair was still like that of a beautiful girl from an anime and cerulean blue like then, but as aRobot Girlher personality program seemed to have been downgraded since I last saw her.Notice anything different from last year, Kinji?I scrutinised LOO as mash picked up and ate another crisp.Back then, there was a human in charge of the LOO-GyNe project.. That is to say, she was operated remotely. The XGY-12the one you call LOO, is equipped with bilateral control when operating remotely in order to respond more like a human would. Don't even characters from fighting games made in Japan have instantaneous responsive gestures and expressions in response to situations? That is to say, while acting autonomously, you should not take any hostile actions toward me. She also has an artificial pharynx instead of an automated voice box. It's linguistic software is underdeveloped, so I have set it so that it cannot speak while under autonomous action.This was the military robot weapon that the United States was pouring time and money into developing.With sensors more acute than human senses, it is prepared for biological and chemical warfare, and most of all, able to preserve human lifeto the end of warding off war weariness. The wars in Vietnam and Somalia were unpopular after all. Such things were indispensable to the Pax Americana that Mash had laid out. They could spread out these unmanned weapons across the world on land, sea, and sky.But, LOOUnlike the ubiquitous UAVs and UGVs, she was humanoid.Her weight was comparable to Honda Research Lab's ASIMO, but her external features were much more advanced. At a glance, she was indistinguishable from a human. As expected of American Transzendieren. They make all kinds of incredible inventions behind closed doors.Although she is made of completely inorganic material, I would still hesitate to shoot her That was probably why she was made to look as she does.And if you're humanoid, you can also use weapons developed for humans.LOO was a transitional weapon on the way to the United States' realisation of fully unmanned warfare.Don't misunderstand me. She wasn't made to look like a little girl out of my own preference. I like older women, and she was created and designed by the one responsible for the projectBack then he pretended to participate in your dispute in order to kill G-3Mash was just prattling on at this pointLOO was looking at me without saying a word, but she looked somewhat pathetic. I knew she was a humanoid machine, but from Mash's explanation, by taking away her voice, he had effectively stolen her heart.Her expressionless eyes seemed to convey the message:Save me.Maybe it was a Japanese habit that made me feel a soul in this inorganic form.Now, it's time for me to say farewell.His unlikable, high-pitched voice had barely explained the second half of his plan, but ever since his guard, LOO, had arrived, Mash had adopted a smug manner.Casting a glance toward G-3, he had become hostile as well.Before we part, G-3, there is something I have to say to you directly. I adored Dr. Sara, and when she diedit was your fault.His tone grated on the nerves, and his wordsWhile I ignored them, G-3 reacted suddenly.Dr. Sara. That is the name of the woman that G-3 is trying to resurrect, using the power of irokane to defy the laws of nature.She passed away due to an accident during G-3's training, and G-3 blamed himself and he escaped the research facility where he had been born.I knew thatand G-3He loved her.If you were stronger, I could have saved Dr. Sara! If she were still alive, she would have been an excellent future First Lady. What a shame.At Mash's words, G-3's grip on the glass on top of the table tightened.With a *Creak!* the glass cracked.Insulting the deceased is the absolute lowest form of provocation. Don't fall for it.I laid my hand on top of G-3's to hold him backI said so too, as he was about to snap.Even in a conflict, there are good and bad things to say.Mash glossed over our anger like a cool breezeThat's right. I ran through 200 possible simulations of a battle with you, yesterday. 199 times I won and 1 time it was a draw; I was undefeated. That's a win rate of 99.5%.His thin fingers tapped quickly. Like there was a smartphone in his brain.Political Superiority,The respective positions of chaos and order,and There is a third reason that you cannot defeat me, and I've saved the greatest reason for last. It's simple. You aredumb. Kinji's IQ is about 100, G-3's 192, and mine is 407.I had a standard score of 50, so I didn't mind being told so again.But Mash's tone indicated that he was planning to leave soonSo I felt I had to respond.Mash, we have this saying among Butei. If you put your strength together 1 + 1 can equal 3 or even 4.Now I see just how dumb you are. You can't even do Maths, can you, Kinji?If you can't understand that proverb, you're the dumb one. What I mean is that there are things that transcend numbers That is the meaning. And I don't know if you have an IQ of 400, but if I have an IQ of 100, that's like 4 of us working together. That's important.I used my one intelligence to respond to this Genion's war of wordsAniki, you shouldn't talk. You're showing how stupid you are.Forgetting his disgust and anger, G-3 tried to calm me down.No way! He said 3 things, so I want to say 3 back!3 Reasons Drop-outs are Better than Elites. First, even if drop-outs like us lose, we don't have any social standing to lose. But if you do, you'll lose your position. Mash, you can't just climb the stairs. If you make a mistake, you'll find yourself falling down them.I said rather pointlessly, to whichHmm. I've never made a mistake or lost a thing in my life, so I don't really understand.He unexpectedly side-stepped the issue.And, Kinji? What are the other 2 reasons?Ugh! I had just said 3, but I didn't really think about it. I need 2 more. I tried to think of something while I was talking, but my 100 IQ brain couldn't come up with anything.Ah, wellHuh! It seems you have a sense of humour. That was outside my calculations.I think I'm pretty good at simulations myself, so let me check your results. Right here, and right now. I'll show you that you've made a mistake in your simulations.My mind subsumed by anger, I finally raised my idiot flag: resorting to brute force.Forgetting that LOO was here, I gripped Mash's tie and dragged him toward meWha! Hit me! Go ahead! I won't hit back. You can't win anyway. Even if I'm a scrawny person, go ahead!With wild gesticulation and glasses slightly askew, Mash shrieked in a high girlish voice.Stop, Aniki. If you hit him here, you'll just be arrested.G-3 held me back with his right arm. I was seething with anger.!GrrrHitting this mushroom would be an entirely one-sided affair and diminish my standing as a man. It would be bullying.Then G-3 indicated a line of sight to where what appeared to be several plainclothes NYPD officers were. Mash must have used his connections to call them.I'm also not in Hysteria Mode. And G-3 is here.If I'm arrested, I'll lose the chance to help Aria by stealing the ruruirokane.So, reluctantly, I let go of himYou are certainly stronger than I. G-3 was challenged by many top agentsNot one of them returned, and they were all capable agents. So I will not be foolish enough to fight you directly.Nervously adjusting his glasses and tie, Mash stood on his short leg next to his seat.So, I'll take my leave while you are still living. The next time I see you, you'll be sleeping corpses. Nevada, Area 51, controlled access area 89A. That is where the ruruirokane you desire is located, and I have applied to defend it, so we should meet again, as planned. If you surrender during the battle, you have my word that you'll be sent to a prison for all kinds of troublemakers for a holiday. G-3, please put your affairs in order. As soon as I have taken care of you, I'll legally seize that building of yours. I'll also seize the school you've been pouring money into.Mash! Why do you want to close his school!? Those kids are innocent!That's none of your business. In this country, political power and money are everything. In the unlikely event you survive, you might be able to appeal to some kind of political power or raise some money. If that power is higher than mine, then you could stop my harassment of G-3's subordinates. Well, except for that cute nunShe might just make a good secretary.At that boorish remark, my patience was finally exhausted. *Grip!* Heedless of the police officers, I grabbed Mash's arm again to stop him from leaving.Oi! Wait! You can't just say what you want and leave as you please when I have something to say to youI had grabbed Mash's arm, but as for my own hand*Grip!* LOO had gripped it in her own hand.She was still seated, staring off into empty space.But those slender arms *Creak!**Creak!* had strength in them.Wh-wha!This was no human grip. It was stronger than Aria, Ranbyou, and even Nii-san's!Aniki!Hrng!Urgh!LOO's grip had vice like strength and was about to crush the bones and muscles in my forearmsG-3 squeezed my arm with his left, artificial arm and my hand naturally opened.Realising I had released Mash, she let go of my armMash slapped my aching arm with the back of his hand.Don't touch me with your filthy hand, you yellow sheep!Leaving me with the slur on Japanese people, he left the shopAs I cradled my aching arm, G-3 stood nearby to protect me LOO followed behind Mash.With the two of them gone, only I and G-3 remainedHaving been overpowered by that little man in the end, I had no words.Mash RooseveltI hadn't met that kind of enemy before today.Without doing anything to us, he had challenged us with intelligence alone. He had overwhelming political power and the power of a governmentand he had wielded it to include law enforcement and military.Just like a sheep, I could not lay a hand or foot on Mash, butRemember. Although you might think of sheep as weak, water buffalo have sharp horns and hooves and have headbutted and kicked wolves to death. In New Zealand they are the most prevalent livestock and they hold the record for the posing the most danger and number of injuries to humans. I'll teach him just what I'm capable of. As a sheep.*********************************************************In an entirely terrible mood, I left Cafe Lalo and went out into the winter nightI didn't think that such enemies existed not in the whole world. As a fellow American, I would have preferred if he'd struck directly.My white breath puffing, I grumbled to G-3 who didn't call a taxi for some reason.Oi, Aniki! Let's head back.Slightly peeved, I followed behind him as he walked down Broadway just ahead of meAngus was waiting patiently for us with the white Rolls-Royce Phantom.When we disappeared, he must have come to look for us and found us at the cafe that G-3 seems to frequent.I shall keep to the busy streets for our return. Just in case of unlikely events, the police will not shoot at citizens.Angus said something to make you wonder just who the villain was hereThe police were acting on Mash's orders, and so this was the safest option.With our current clothing, we really did look like New York gangsters.Angus, you bastard, you're skipping out on the party!Putting an arm on his hip and stretching the other across his chest while standing under a street lamp, G-3 adopted an Aria-esque angry pose.Scold me however you like. But I have decided to live and die with you, Third-sama.It seems that he had seen through to the true reason for attending the party, and his face screwed up into a small smile.Tch! Have it your way! Oi, get me some tomatoes!G-3 turned red and vented his angerhe even makes the same unreasonable demands as Aria. But Angus is a different sort of henchman than I, and he proffered a tomato wrapped in a handkerchief like some kind of magic trick. A reliable man. If it were me it would go like this:Momoman?Then:No!Then:Not good enough!Then I'd start the wind-hole dance.I intercepted your conversation, and he was foolish. Mash Roosevelt.Angus smiled again at G-3 as he munched on tomatoes beside me.Foolish, how? He has an IQ of 400.I said, somewhat discouraged.A foolish person can still have a high IQ. The top Army brass is full of them. But there are few fools such as Mash. I would much rather follow Third-samaIt seems that Angus who had the highest loyalty to G-3 dislikes Mash the most.Third-sama will not be restricted to one place, nor will that person become President. Third-sama is light. Can anyone in the world bind light?G-3 turned red, and it wasn't because of the tomatoes he was eating*Kick!*Then standing under the streetlight, he kicked Angus' shin with the tip of his leather shoe to draw his attention to something.Angus turned around to look at something behind himA fat, grandmotherly, black woman in a tight-fitting NYPD uniform stood there in one hand, an orange piece of paper that seemed to be a violation ticket flittered..You there, with the car. This is a No-Parking Zone!She pointed a bit angrily at the Rolls Royce with her batonOh, I knew that. I only parked because of my employer.Embarrassed, Angus tried to accept the ticket.But the policewoman snatched it back.I'll let it go tonight. A friend of mine was pulled out in this shit weather for a personal security detail, and he told me:Mash was a total piece of shit, and the people we were supposed to watch seemed like good guys.So just move the car out of here fast.With a small smile, she exercised a bit of discretion.I gave a tight smile at the clever arrangement.Mash said thatPolitical power and money are everything in this countyBut America isn't such a narrow-minded country. That gave me a bit of peace of mind.END TEXT*****************************1.These are positive or negative impression of hand prints in bronze.Link2.Batto Hino is Leica Hino's From HnA AA father.3.As far as I can tell, MacArthur had nothing to do with the 7th special forces group.4.Means the combination of different units ground troops and cavalry, ship and aircraft to complement each other in different terrains and situations5.Reads: Luca's Room in Russian.6.Nausica of the Valley of the Wind creature from the Sea of Corruption.Link7.This is not true. Emergency services are obligated to take people who obviously need/request care, regardless of their ability to pay. They are supposed to pay later, but there is really no way to force them to do it, and a lot of the people receiving care are very poor and homeless.Prisons don't release prisoners if they run out of money. Federal and State detention centres do not close, hardly ever. When they do, they transfer them to other facilities.Same goes for private prisons, which are the only ones that really close. Schools operate similarly. Kids would just be transferred and given transportation options to the other school. Very few cannot get to public schools of some kind. Not that they are the best, but it is school.Tsk! Tsk! Akamatsu-sensei!8.Dragon Ball move used in Super Saiyan Goku's fight with Frieza on Namek9.Original idiom is sell oil'10.Evil villainess from Yatterman anime.11. == BUSY, == HEART. You use the one for heart' to build off of to gwt busy'. Kanji radical #61 Thanksjorgelotr!12.WWII political slogan All 8 corners of the world under one roof implying Japanese world domination