Chapter 2Rademio proved mediocre regional capital.
He was like most of the other cities-fortresses built during the war, including Delsorant in which the Torah and Akari lived as refugees. The size of the city is quite consistent with the status of the regional capital. Probably, the only difference from Delsoranta was that it did not live local feudal lord.
Most lords preferred to settle in the largest cities of their land.
Accordingly, if the city manages to be the regional capital in the absence of a feudal lord, and to argue in size to Delsorantom … then this is indicative of a turbulent city prosperity.
Indeed, Rademio seething life.
It seems that the main income of the city received from nearby mines, which produces dry fuel.
Dry fuel rather extracted in the mines of fossils of animals served as an indispensable source of magical energy.
Of course, the war was over, but the magic of the demand is still not exhausted. Moreover – Immediately after the war, all countries immediately began to reduce its forces in order to save, and the remaining without a job magicians began to offer their services to farmers and artisans to make ends meet. As a result, the use of magic came more widespread.
On the streets of the city now and then met magicians, roam with their Gundo.
– “The valley, from which no one returns” ..?
This is the name of Torah heard almost immediately, he found himself in Rademio.
– Yes. I advise you to stay away from her – said, frowning a little, good-natured kind of chubby trader whose squad Torah was purchased food and other supplies.
– …
– …
Thor and The Seagull at each other.
Akari with them, by the way, was not – they scored so much sulfur that it is still sitting in the “Svetlana” and handle it. I must say that in these matters it was very meticulous. When she take up the pestle, and she almost ceased to respond to attempts to talk to her.
Frederick, as always, gone somewhere … and more especially nothing to say. Surely in a few days she was again suddenly to announce next to them. Toru squad already stopped paying attention to it. Probably, there was only the question of whether it is possible to consider its “ally” … but, anyway, it is not such a fragile creature to worry about it after a couple of days of absence.
But back to the topic …
– It is also called “the valley of the fog.”
The seller turned to hanging on the wall of the store map.
She portrayed Rademio and the surrounding area. To the east of the city there was a huge crack, as if someone had wounded the earth giant blade. The scale of the map, clear the size of the city, made it clear that it has a very large canyon.
– It always is often clouded in mist. But lately, he has never lost.
– Never? – Asked frowning Torah.
He was sure that the merchant was joking or at least exaggerating.
– Yes. The last few years, this mist hanging in there every day, – said the seller immediately. – Rumor has it that it is woven of malice of those who died in the valley.
– If you say that because of her “no return”, as I understand it, there are many died?
– Probably … – the seller said not too clearly. – Those who inadvertently wander there, never to return. But no one finds them dead … or rather, those who go in search of disappearing themselves.
– That sounds … very creepy.
So, it is quite a dangerous place.
– Live there any feil? – Toru asked, taking a bag of food.
By the way, the purchase was to carry the Torah. Seagull is paying for them.
– No. I have never heard outside the city were carried out feil. Therefore, no one knows anything.
– Hmm …
If you think about it, Dominic (or rather, Frederick) lived in a family house, located in the forest, which is also said that “no one returns” from it. And it was true, but no one said that the reason for this was settled in it feil.Perhaps they have lived in the valley, killing absolutely everyone who got into their territory.
But…
“But the fog that never dissipated, it is certainly strange.”
Just “fog in the valley” is not surprising.
But it is very strange that he never lost.
Moreover – all right if it was some sort of a local feature, but if it started at some point, it is clearly for some reason.
– When the fog stopped scattered about?
– I’ll tell you. Year three … no, four years ago, I suppose.
– And before that people were returning from the valley?
– Well, yes – the seller said, delving into one of the baskets that stood in the corner of the shop.
Seagull was paying very valuable coins, and he was looking for change.
– Of course, this place has never been a particularly straight-through, but some times down to pick mushrooms and wild vegetables … As I remember, in those days, nothing really happened to them.
4 years ago. Shortly after the war.
– …
Thanking the Seller, the Torah came out of the store.
Next I was with him …
– Thor? – Appealed to him concerned Seagull. – Something. Worry?
– Yes, that I just do not bother.
So many things you need to consider.
Rather, it seemed too frivolous Seagull.
However, we must admit that its carelessness and spontaneity really helped the Torah from the first day of their acquaintance. Their journey was not easy. If still Seagull went with sour 24 hours a day, it would be a gloomy despondency.
– But right now I am most concerned with the endless fog, – continued the Torah.
– “The valley, from which no one returns …”
– Yeah. According to Guy, the last time that the magician, Simon scans seen 4 years ago. It is immediately after the war. But the fog also appeared 4 years ago. Of course, two things can happen, “4 years ago” with a difference of half a year … but, in my opinion, they are all somehow related.
– Consent – Seagull nodded with a serious face. – Simon Scania. Missing. Inside the fog?
– Yes, there is such a likelihood.
Given the fact that this is a place with great pomp called “the valley, from which no one returns,” … it is clearly lost not one or two people. Perhaps among them he was lost, and Simon Scania.
They did not know what kind of person was Simon Scania, but if he decided to run together with the remains of Emperor Gaza, now they just might be in the valley.
“a.s.sa.s.sin’s Emperor” – the same people. If one of them died from the disease or the other could have died because of the accident. We can not ignore the likelihood that Scania Simon died there.
– That’s just … – Tohru visited sudden thought. – How strange … that we pa.s.s through it again.
– M?
– Understand and Earl Abarth, and Dominic, and this Scania Simon … let no one knows about it, but because they heroes? I thought that, those people will live out his life happily and without worries.
After all, they have experienced a severe war. And certainly we got a huge reward.
It would seem that they could only live in anything without denying yourself …
– Stop. It turns out, is just the opposite? – Suddenly whispered Torah aware. – Perhaps the squad immediately Cursed Emperor … just consisted of people who could not live in peace even with money and fame. Not the character, not the mind.
In times of war Arthur Strip called “strong” and “monster”, and when it came to politics, and magic. Since he was almost immortal and ageless, it was believed that one man beat him not under force.
Call such a monster to fight … and even in the midst of the battle against the imperial guard, broke away from the front as part of a special unit – shaped suicide.
Urgent need to excel, indifference to his own life, an unhealthy love of a desperate situation … in any case, an ordinary person is unlikely to agree to enter in the same squad. Perhaps their names are not disclosed precisely because they were distressed people, and after the war were not the “righteous” way of life, which they were expected to.
– And anyway … why it is not just when it is needed?
He spoke of Frederick.
Of course, she did not go inside the castle, but she could spend sufficient time near Dominica to remember the faces of those who was in the vanguard, as well as their behavior.
– By the way … – continued the Torah on the go. – And what kind of man your father was?
– M? Father?
– And then I had something just stories about him and hear, for which it is more like a monster.
What he lived 300 years (someone and lead up to 1000) that can simultaneously use three Gundo that sword treated better than any knight of any country and was so strong that he could bend at the same time some iron coins only some fingers …
It got to the point that the Torah has already questioned whether such a person could exist really.
– Father … – Seagull looked into the blue sky above his head, as if remembering something for a long time. – Father … a man. Emperor. Mag.
– No, it’s something I do know – the Torah reflex sighed.
– Thor … – Seagull seemed genuinely surprised. – Expert.
– Yes, everybody knows it!
– Name. Arthur Gas.
– And this is also know … Are you kidding me? Tell me something else. What do you know his daughter. The nature, hobbies, habits and so on.
Legends of the emperor Gaza pa.s.sed around so much that it became to distinguish truth from fiction is almost impossible. As a result, the Emperor had the vague “striking” appearance and a particular image was not available.
– Um … um … uh?
But then Seagull tilted her head and thought for a long time ….
Memories so much that she can not choose where to start? .. No, it does not. On the contrary – it seemed as if she was desperately trying to find anything in the memory.
– Mmm?
– So, wait a minute. We’re talking about your father?
– Father – His Imperial Highness – Chaika said. – Busy. Highly. Met. Rarely … almost there.
– …
The harder the ruler belonged to his duties, the inevitable became busier. In the case of such a huge country like Empire Gas, this is especially true. Even some doc.u.ments require the approval of the emperor, the day was to build up a lot.
If you think about it, really it is not surprising that it has been issued almost possible to see my daughter.
– Very, very busy – Seagull repeated, emphasizing the word carefully.
Torah … noticed the sadness on her face.
– Memories. Few. Extremely.
– I understand … I’m sorry that I asked about this.
Torah and did not know how to look like his real parents.
Of course, children and lived ACURE saboteurs … but a significant part of the future commandos formed from children overbought in the villages, where they would wait for death, and war orphans.
Thor was one of those orphans.
Throughout his adult life he spent in ACURE. Around him there were many others like it, and foster parents he had, so he is not particularly yearned for his real parents.
But … even he knew that the parents of normal children – the most important people. After all, he was a saboteur, which obliged him to understand other people’s feelings with all its consequences.
– OK. Complete – Chaika said, shaking his head.
Her face was not sad.
Toru almost managed to calm down …
“Gull. You … really the daughter of the Emperor Gaza? “
… When suddenly he remembered the words of Frederick.
It would seem, how can you doubt it?
Taking its name daughter of the Emperor of the d.a.m.ned and collect his remains, in spite of all the danger can be either a complete fool or a real daughter.
But … what if the Seagull really is not a real daughter of Emperor Gaza?
What if in fact Seagull understands the feelings of people, and better yet the Torah simply lead him by the nose? What if she acts out the role of the Emperor’s daughter for some of their goals, which the Torah is not committed?
What if she has no memories of the Emperor Gaza simply because she really never saw it?
Chaika said bad and small, because of what the Torah has to antic.i.p.ate her thoughts and fill the s.p.a.ces between the words on their own … but what if this is just a trick that she uses deliberately? What if she just grows it is easy to believe her desire?
“Heck…”
Again, a familiar feeling when one begets another question.
People may judge others only by words and actions.
When Frederick asked him this question a few days ago, the Torah did not hesitate to stand up for gulls, but …
“I…”
The feeling that he felt it was too blurry to call it “wobble”.
But, nevertheless, he clearly realized that something trembled inside.
The word “magician” is only one, but the types of magicians are actually a lot.
Because the magic of technology – rather extensive and well-developed region, it is not surprising that began to appear magicians specializing on certain things.
For example, Zita of Gillette unit itself was rather weak mage unable to use advanced technology. But at the same time it is perfectly versed in any engineered issues related to magic, to effectively use any Gundo, repair and improve them.
The second magician of this order, Mateus, a full set of skills and magician model beyond that specialized in communication of magic and mind control.
Combining both of these specializations, it could change the brain of an animal so that it becomes possible to use it as a “servant”. This process required the continuous maintenance of the spell, and he Matheus remained virtually defenseless, but at the same time, it meant that he could translate the information from the eyes and ears of an animal right in his head.
That is why Mateus, a couple with a scout Leonardo, often worked eyes and ears detachment Gillette.
– …
Matheus for quite a long time sitting with eyes closed in “April”, parked in the parking lot of the city Rademio.He was sitting on the floor cross-legged in the lotus position and folded his hands on them, because of what seemed like a carved stone idol of some sects (especially when you consider a straight face and bald head).
At this very moment, “servants” Mateus were just 10 birds.
In general, the “borrowing” the eyes and ears of a very heavy load on the magician brain, and only collect information from 10 birds at the same time could lead to the fact that the magician would have bled from the nose and ears, and then he did and would have fallen into a swoon.
In other words, Matheus was an excellent magician.
– Still, no wonder they say that brains are made up of muscle.
– Did someone other than you, so says Vivi ..?
Both girls squad Gillette – a.s.sa.s.sin and mage Vivi Zita – talking, looking at sitting on the floor and control “servants” Mateus.
Matthews, by the way, did not react.
He was too busy running “servants.”
– He is, I suppose, can now be “muscles” on the forehead to write, he did not notice – Vivi said.
It was very noticeable girl with shiny wavy hair and a stern look.
Lofty and even volitional facial features suggests the idea of n.o.ble birth. Her appearance is still retained some of the children’s features, but it almost did not feel weak, due to which it would like to patronize.
Perhaps … if she suddenly appeared at some dinner ball, you did not have stood it.
And that’s why it would be unlucky victim realized that this girl – an a.s.sa.s.sin, only when it is a weapon would have dug into the vital organs. Vivi hardly talked about his past, but, judging by her behavior, she obviously learned to be a.s.sa.s.sins, to specialize in operations in high society.
– Better mustache pririsuy him – replied Zita, smiling stiffly.
She wore gla.s.ses with round lenses, neatly cropped hair reached only to his shoulders. In general, she looked nowhere near as elegant and n.o.ble, like Vivi, but at the same time, this simplicity gave softness and tenderness. Maybe if she was dressed in a beautiful dress, it would look very attractive. But Zita, as a magician, favored practicality, walking in st.u.r.dy work boots and other equipment gruff appearance.
In appearance, skills and characters Vivi and Zita so different from one another that it was difficult to find at least something that united them … but for some reason, probably because of approximately equal age, next to each other they seemed like sisters.
– Maybe, hair paint, and then hurt his noggin sad. Uh, I’m just doing a favor!
– It seems to me, Matheus not bald, he just shorn nalyso.
– I’m sure it’s just because he does not want to comb and so on. Oh, I come up … if the hair tattoo, they are never confused, and wash them will not have to, right?
– Hold on, Vivi, where did you get the needle?
Zita hastened to straighten it.
It seems that she wanted to play some kind of a cruel joke with who sat like a statue Matheus … although, in its defense, it looked so that it was difficult to hold back. Vivi was often precocious grim and focused – probably affected trained a.s.sa.s.sin – but this was compensated by such moments, in which she behaved quite childish.
But…
– What are you doing? – There was suddenly a voice behind Vivi, dragged the needle-to-head Mateus, and clung to her Zita.
They even did not have to turn around.
They knew that the voice belonged to the commander of the detachment Gillette – Gillette Alberico Knight.
– A?!
From astonishment needle slipped out of the hands of Vivi, describe an arc air and stuck to the floor, flying very close to the nose Alberic.
– … – Alberic not without surprise looked around their eyes.
– A, p-n-sorry! – Hurriedly exclaimed Vivi.
This girl-a.s.sa.s.sin has never lost his presence of mind to anyone … except Alberic Gillette. Next to this young man, even she became meek and obedient. This change of character was so sharp that unwittingly brings a smile the rest of the squad, and only Alberic himself somehow managed to ignore how unnatural it looked.
– Vivi … – he said with a sigh Alberic. – Do I understand correctly that the “needle” for you – the same thing for me, “the sword”?
– Uh .. A. Yes – Vivi hardly thought about the answer.
At Knights swords. In a.s.sa.s.sins needle.
From the point of view of “arms and its owner” is really equivalent things.
– If so … then they should not be so easy to take out, even if they seem to you a part of your body. This gun, with its help you can save a person or injure him. Always remember that when going to use it.
– …
Alberic words were not just right, but too true, and not just naive, and naive in the extreme. Vivi even more confused, but …
– Well, – she nodded and stared at the floor.
Her cheeks slightly reddened, but Alberic or again did not notice, or did not understand why it happened.Glancing them with Vivi look Zita smiled slightly.
– By the way, you do not know what happened to Nicholas? – Alberic suddenly asked, as if forgetting that only happened conversation.
He never stretched reprimanded his subordinates. He makes a clear distinction between their emotions and behavior in humans. For such a young man, to the same n.o.ble, it was a rare quality.
– A. I asked him to go for food, – said Zita.
– You sent for groceries … Nicholas?
– Yes. His wound finally healed, and he was eager to work with his hands.
– Ah … – Alberic nodded, realizing what it was about.
Some time ago, Nicholas broke his hand, fighting the subversive hired Chaika.
Mateus recovered bone healing magic, but “glued” the bone can not be considered healed. Nicholas had time to his hand was as strong as ever. For the average person this would mean that the use of the injured hand is not worth it.
But if you do not strain your muscles, they begin to wither.
Whatever hero nor was Nicholas, for the month that he did not use a hand, it significantly weakened.Therefore, he sought not only as quickly as possible to return to training, but also tried to take on more physical work.
– Well, I think he will be back soon, – said Alberic, and then …
– Found!!! – There was a loud cry.
Shouted Matheus, who without warning came from the statue regime and opened his eyes. Immediately interrupting his meditation, he rose, turned to Alberico and continued:
– I found them, found the m …?
On the face of Mateus appeared suspicious.
And Alberic, and Zita, and Vivi were frozen in bizarre poses. Alberic slightly arched back, and Vivi and Zita all stood half-turned, as if ready at any time to embark their heels.
– …Something happened?
– You scared us! – Exclaimed Vivi. – You are so suddenly cried!
– Um … I’m sorry – sorry Matheus before Vivi, scratching his smooth head, and then turned back to Alberic. – Mr. Gillette. I found them.
– The very Seagull Gas?
– Exactly. He is also a saboteur with it – boldly Matheus nodded. – The girl next-saboteur I have not seen them, but …
– … We can a.s.sume that they are all in the city.
– Exactly.
The detachment arrived in Gillette Alberic Rademio in search of traces of a “hero” by the name of Simon Scania, but their initial task was to find a girl named Seagull Gas impersonate Gaza Emperor’s daughter. She was looking for “heroes” … or rather, “remains”, which they owned, which meant that she could appear in Rademio. For this reason, Alberic ordered Mateus Leonardo engaged in intelligence.
– And where are they?
– Exactly the opposite side of town to the east.
– …
Alberic frowned and folded his arms across his chest.
– The commander of Gillette? – Anxiously asked Zita.
Vivi also looked as if ready at any moment to embark in a fight, and checked the contents of his pockets, which hide the needle and other weapons. At first glance, this might seem an unarmed woman, but it is not.Even naked she did not remain defenseless – could lurk in the hair noose, and in the mouth – the needle.
But…
– Now we can only fight we Vivi. I’m afraid we are not strong enough – Alberic said. – We’d better wait until Leonardo did not return from a reconnaissance, and Nicholas – from the store.
– You … strongly overestimate saboteurs – Vivi replied with displeasure.
Perhaps it was a simple bias, perhaps, some events from the past Vivi, but it is rarely perceived saboteurs seriously and looked down on them. Or maybe blame should that profession a.s.sa.s.sin and saboteur echoed in many respects, leading to anger and irritation towards “colleagues.”
– Their mage useless in battle, so that you and one is enough to …
– No. I’ve heard that the “devil Wars” Clan ACURE and “Pleiades” Clan Subaru own secret technique, “Zheleznokroviem”.
After Alberic learned that The Seagull subservient two saboteur – man and woman – he once studied the material on “the war mongrel.” The enemy, as you know, you need to know in person, and it is desirable to know everything possible before the start of the battle.
– This means that they are on time can double the capacity of their bodies by breathing techniques and self-hypnosis. I do not know whether they are capable of saboteurs at this, but if you can be … difficult. That guy, the saboteur already skilled. I think his girlfriend at about the same level. And if so, we … Vivi – a contract up to this point, Alberic smiled sourly dissatisfied Vivi. – Kill them, maybe we can, but to capture …
Joking with saboteurs impossible.
Alberic heard and that they, if necessary, could blow himself up with gunpowder. Capture live saboteur – a daunting task.
– But in the living we need to leave a Seagull gas to extract information from it?
– We have already talked about this recently. Perhaps it is just a puppet. Therefore, we must as far as possible to take alive anyone who has it anything to do – quietly and instructively answered Alberic. – Ideally you should do without any deaths.
– Mr. Alberic … – Vivi stared at his boss.
He said a few words, but in a voice that seemed addressed more to himself than to her:
– Because we are no longer at war.
Yes. Now is not the time when the value of a person depends on how much he had killed.
Already it is impossible to think that you can “kill – and be done with it.”
For a man whose whole life preparing for war (and what’s more – the war was preparing his whole family), it was really a desperate time. He could not use his unique skills. You could say he took the meaning of life.
But…
– As a knight, I want to try to fight him one on one, – said Alberic Vivi with a tight smile. – I do not want any deaths among the opponents, not to mention my subordinates. Therefore, for the confidence we need to attack the whole detachment.
– Well … – Vivi said, agreeing, finally, to his opinion.
– Matheus. I’m sorry, but I need you to keep track of them continued. When Nicholas and Leonardo will return, we will go after them. Do not miss them, as we do not get together.
– Roger that.
In response to the words of Alberic Matheus nodded, he picked up Gundo, closed his eyes and sat back down on the floor.
She was like unhealed scar.
Deep, like a wound … a crack in the ground and filling it dense white fog.
Some would call this delightful picture.
These majestic landscapes are often taken for the soul of the beholder. Especially when it was possible to see such under itself. Awareness of their own insignificance expanded horizons and taught to look at what is happening in the future.
But … if you remember that from the valley of “no return”, this immense landscape was beginning to seem ominous. He seemed to be turned into darkness, in which one could never guess that the threat lurking nearby, and at what point they will appear before you.
– I see … – Akari said, squinting. – So you’re like, “the valley from which no one returns.”
She stood at the edge of a giant fault. Akari stumbled a little, and would immediately flew to the very bottom … but, nevertheless, she stood quietly and gazed in dense fog.
The valley is located east of Rademio.
The area itself was mountainous, and it is not surprising that between the mountains of the valley formed … but specifically “the valley, from which no one returns” appeared due to the fault of the old split the bottom of the valley. Naturally, she went deeper … much deeper plain on which stood Rademio.
– Eternal mist? How unusual.
Although she looked into the mist under his feet … Akari hardly anything seen before. You can not even figure out how deep the valley. Earlier I tried to measure the depth of the Torah by a thrown stone, but the sound from the fall they have not heard. Either fault left so that there are not the sounds, or something to soften the fall of the stone may have moss or sand. Naturally, they did not know the correct answer.
– We were told that this place since ancient times often clouded by fog, – said Thor, who was standing on the side of Akari.
– Given the fact that we even do not know the depth, trying to go down risky.
– I hope the magic of Gulls will help us to understand the approximate form of the gorge, – said the Torah and turned.
Seagull behind them sat near the coffin uncovered, remove parts of it and gathered his Gundo.
It seemed Gundo old places with worn paint and a lot of small scratches, testified that they had already enjoyed a very long time. To the long barrel and mechanism was attached to the ridge-like detail, because of which it resembled more an organism than just a “tool”.
“By the way, if you think about …” – suddenly I thought Toru looking at Gundo Gulls. – “Whose was it before?”
Seagull looked about 15, but Gundo it looked like it was used 10-20 years. Hardly Seagull brought him to this state itself. She received it from someone.
Perhaps this Gundo enjoyed himself Arthur Gas.
– … Done! – Said the seagull and raised Gundo.
She raised her habitual movement with itself the size of the device, and clung to the top enshrined sight.
In the hands of a tiny Seagulls Gundo looked particularly menacing.
But at the same time Gulls movements were perfectly natural. Sure, she had a great experience with them.She kept confident and graceful, like some beast.
– …
Apparently, she now chooses where she should stand. Not looking up from his sight, she walked forward …
– M-Mya ?!
But on the fourth step of the land ended.
Seagull immediately tumbled forward. Naturally, no cable is wound on it was not. She flew straight down to is unknown how deep the bottom …
– Hmm.
… But not for long.
Akari immediately caught her by the collar and pulled his hammer back. A little tugging on his feet in the air Seagull finally fell next to the Torah and Akari.
– I often think … – broken voice said Toru looking at lying in front of Seagull. – How did you survived before we met?
How can I put it … she was too careless in their daily lives.
She frequently distracted while driving that miraculously avoided accidents, and even when the go, and then stumbled. When she is ready, then immediately he was cutting his fingers with a knife, and then dropped her plate … in other words, it was awkward around.
It seems that for the concentration and sense of balance, which it had in the critical moments, Seagull was paying that abruptly became several times less attentive in everyday life. Even when the Torah met with her, she wandered aimlessly through the woods.
Inability to focus on the location and distraction.
Travelling alone dangerous for her life.
– Torah – Chaika said, rising to his feet. – Announce. The new fact.
– New fact? What else? – Thor frowned.
Seagull grunted loudly and for some reason clenched her fists.
– Ya Surprisingly strong.
– Do not be proud – said irritably Torah. – And in general, have come to clarify the situation with the help of his magic.
– M … – Seagull looked first to the Torah, and then on the rock, which had just fallen. – The best place. There.
– A? Ah, that’s it.
Tohru nodded.
Magic – it is very subtle.
It happens that the spell does not work simply because some condition is met a little wrong. Therefore magicians shifted to Gundo care of all the moments that did not require environmental accounting environment, and themselves carefully adjusts a spell when used magic. Temperature. Humidity. Atmosphere pressure.Distance. The position of the stars. Location of power lines. It is necessary to take into account these and many other components that are inextricably intertwined with each other.
The position of the mage, too, was one of them.
It seems that the best place for the use of spells, which would be able to explore the valley, was a point in the step from the brink. Seagull believes that even in the half-step error would greatly impact on the accuracy of the spell.
– However, – he said the Torah once again eyeing open eyes. – In the air you can not stand. If contact has been Frederick, you would be able to lean over to her, but …
Fantasmagoricheskayaaya girl dragon somewhere has got, and they it is no longer seen.
In the words of Frederick, however, he opposed the detachment of the Torah, so hopefully it’s probably not worth it …
– The Torah. Hold.
Seagull stood in a strange position.
She bent down and put back, becoming a bit like a duck …
– Top. Pull. Get. But the fall. Therefore, the Torah. Hold.
Apparently, she was going to bend over the edge of a cliff with Gundo and Toru had to hold it, it will not drop.
– So? .. – Thor went to Chaika and cupped her hands around the waist.
– We, ah ?!
– A?!
Seagull cried in such an unusual voice that Torah reflexively jerked his hands away.
– What?!
– H … normal. Problems. No.
– …
Thor frowned, then again took the Seagull’s waist, holding her.
However, in order to combine efforts and take a few steps up the cliff, it took them a long time. Surely by this picture it looked very silly.
But…
“Well, the position we have …” – suddenly noticed the Torah and frowned.
Move aside the loins Gulls.
And arching back Toru, who tried to balance it.
From the side it might seem that …
– Um … excellent, brother, – mused Akari. – Perfectly. No one compares to you the ability to grab the women’s a.s.s. I’m in great delight.
– Recovers than admire.
– And, of course, my delights honed your ability to take pants in such a difficult situation.
– Yes, I have no such delusions skills! – Exclaimed the Torah.
Chaika also read out a spell, it is not listening to their conversation:
– Efta. Helste. RU. Belguir. Fai. Seve …
After these words, the mechanism Gundo connected cord from her neck began to glow with blue light, and the next moment there were charts and letters from around the empty barrel. They began to rotate and merge with each other to form a complete magical scheme.
– “Detector” … come forth.
Seagull launched a prepared spell.
There was a high-pitched sound.
He was so tall that the ears barely caught it. Had he been a little higher, and it would do no one heard. The sound was repeated a few more times, and then there was silence again.
And then…
– Hey … – I called Torah with hooded eyes.
– M?
– You still need to be in this position?
– No. Pose cancel.
– …
Continuing to hold the Seagull, the Torah took two steps back, then released her.
Seagull immediately sat down on the ground, grabbed Gundo and closed her eyes. Search spell broadcast results magician brain, but for their “translation” into intelligible form required some time.
– By the way, Akari – Thor turned to his sister.
– What?
– What are you trying to do?
– Hmm? What are you?
– Why are you standing so ?! – He asked Akari, somehow standing in full combat readiness with arms outstretched.
– You’re on it .. Hmm. To be honest … – coolly replied Akari.
By the way, not only that she was standing in a pose “Now I’ll grab ‘her fingers as if to live their lives and constantly moving. From this picture of Thor unwittingly worried about what she was going to do.
– I thought that you should be how to cuddle, brother.
– …
Tohru decided to respond to it – a more expensive, and simply waited.
– When I saw you hug Seagull, then suddenly I noticed – said Akari, gradually approaching the Torah. – If you think about it, I have not squeezed you, brother very beginning of our journey.
– What? – Asked the Torah, squinting.
However, restless fingers Akari expressed her desire is even better than words.
– If I have some time not squeezed his brother, I started terrible crash.
– I hear it for the first time.
– Yeah. I think now it will happen for the first time in my life.
– Yes, it is clear to anyone that you just pretend! – Toru said he got up in the rack.
– Brother. You’re being unfair.
– What is it?
– Moreover, you’re dishonest.
– What are you talking?
– You’re just squeezed myself that Seagull.
– It was necessary!
“And what’s more, I do not remember so defiantly moving his fingers.”
– I also need. Ah. Everything bad is about to begin, – uttering these words as always indifferent voice, Akari shaken.
But it has issued that these actions did not felt despair.
– Brother. If your sister is to you a little bit cute, give her a cuddle yourself.
– Are you threatening me, or what?
Even for some time, they wrote out the circles, periodically exchanging remarks, like two bears, trying to intimidate each other.
– Graduated … – he said to hold on to Gundo Seagull and sighed with relief.
– And How? – Asked the Torah, then immediately grabbed the wrist Akari, tried to seize the moment. – And in general, how the magic of your work?
– Explore. Valley. Condition. Echolocation.
Judging by the words of Seagulls … its method in many respects similar to the Torah attempt to measure the depth of the valley by a thrown stone. Of course, the magic of Gulls are much more complex and enables using echo and reverb to measure the distance to evaluate the terrain and detect objects even in darkness or fog.
– And ..?
Perhaps because of this valley “no returns” … but if it came from the people “remains”, Toru squad had to follow him. However, in view of the fact that from this valley no one ever comes back, and that she was always tightened mist descend without any plan is very unwise.
They wanted to understand the least about what is happening in the valley, but …
– Is unclear … – Seagull upset pouted.
– A? Like this?
– Explore the magic. Could not – Seagull shaking her head.
It seems that her “detector” is not able to break through the fog. Grappled with each other Torah and Akari unanimously frowned.
– Look … yes, we are not at war, but from death stand a few steps. Be so kind to take it seriously.
– No. Failure – Seagull replied sulkily, and seems a bit offended.
– So it’s not your fault?
– Magic. No problem. The problem … Valley. No. Fog.
– …What?
– Probably … magic – Chaika pointed the finger at the valley … or rather, in the fog fills it.
– You mean it’s all the magic?
Thor looked dumbfounded eyes mist.
By the way, he seemed slightly bluish and different from the usual …
– Clear. That’s, perhaps, and this is possible – immediately he said.
Many people hear the word “water”, imagine the liquid in the vessel, but the water – it is flowing from the leaves of the morning dew, rain, rivers, and seas. Similarly, the magic may have a variety of scales.
Torah itself under the “magic” refers primarily to spell like the ones that uses gull, so rusty, that there are large-scale spell involving several magicians and huge Gundo.
He heard about it only on an amateur level, but during the war used the magic of ma.s.s destruction, not inferior in strength to natural disasters, as well as magic, keep in the air flying fortress.
In comparison with the scale of such magic, which plunges the whole valley in the mist, it seemed a trifle.
Besides…
– A precise description. Magical. Matter – he explained Seagull, raising his index finger.
– Matter?
– It creates the magic. They react to magic. Various applications.
The result is a magical treatment of simple resources – stone, wood and so on.
Magee called the results of such treatments “matter”.
Such materials could be used in spells of ma.s.s destruction as “strikers” attacked the enemies like a sledgehammer blows. More experienced saboteurs were told that such a spell so powerful that when you meet them, you can have nothing on hoping.
– Wait a minute … – muttered the Torah, realizing something.
Fill in matter a whole valley.
In such it was capable of not every counter magician. In addition, it required a strong source of magical energy. Otherwise, create as many magic materials and to support them would not have succeeded.
In other words…
– This Scania Simon, incidentally, does not copy the graph Abarth ..?
– M. Perhaps – Seagull nodded.
Most likely Scania Simon not only owned “remains”, and used them in a large Gundo for powerful spells.Moreover, this valley was a source of dry fuel, so magical energy he had in abundance.
– Then … – Thor looked down into the valley, holding the hands of Akari. – This mist – “lock” Scania Simon?
– Maybe … – Chaika confirmed.
– Now I want even less to climb without preparation, – he muttered frowning Torah.
If the reason, no one returned by that of the valley, was that Simon Scania using the mist turned it into a fortress … then all is very bad. It turns out that even the visits of residents Rademio he regarded as “invasion”.So, trying to steal the remains of The Seagull, he clearly perceive as “the enemy.”
And how Simon Scania versed with the intruders and enemies could only guess.
– We need to go back and thoroughly prepare, – said Thor, turning away from the valley.
Ideally … we have to wait for the return of Frederica.
It is difficult to say to what extent she was going to help them, but the magic dragon transformations and related therapeutic abilities could play a decisive role. Even if they knew about the limitations of its treatment of its own victory over it – she could recover only “parts” of the body, but against poisons and diseases that affect the whole body, was powerless – but still.
– Antidotes ready?
– Basic types – Akari nodded.
Naturally, they did not have the possibility to neutralize all poisons. But at the same time … oddly enough, but the use of poisons require special knowledge. In other words, to fit a specific situation only a limited number of poisons. If Scania Simon was not going to use any particularly rare poison, their stock would be enough basic antidotes.
– Come on. Gull?
– M. Wait. Time.
Recovering himself, Seagull immediately began dismantling its Gundo.
Thor turned to her and started to speak:
– Now we are back to the “Svetlana” and …
But then …
– …
He frowned and stopped.
His hands are near the komboklinkam belt.
Akari is also slightly bent down and reached for a hammer.
– M?
Seagull’s eyes widened in astonishment, not understanding the reaction of their subordinates.
However, one thing became clear to her. They were preparing for battle.
But … where is their enemy?
Around as the eye could see, there was no one.
– Thor? Akari?
– Seagull – appealed to her the Torah, trying not to wake up in an even more aggressive stance that the enemy did not notice anything.
But he looked in a very definite way.
– Gundo not understand. If you can, prepare a combat spell.
– M … um, – Seagull stress nodded.
– Get out! – Loudly commanded the Torah.
His voice echoed off the rocks around them and gradually subsided.
– You do not expect that it would be so easy, however slaughter us?
And in the next moment …
– … Impressive.
By Air ran wave.
And this is not a metaphor. It happened just that.
By air, as if on the surface of water, it broke up the ring.
Along with him came the quiet hum from the very center of the ring, left white car.
Apparently, it was magic.
They crept by manipulating light and sound. Appearing out of nowhere a huge machine seemed very surreal.There was a feeling as if they are all the time watched only on theatrical scenery.
– We caught up .. -? Said Toru m.u.f.fled.
He recognized logo in the form of a wolf on the “nose” of the machine.
Except for the size, it’s the same emblem that adorned sheath blade Gillette Alberic – knight, chasing Seagull.
– So she knew that from such a distance we notice – there was a girl’s voice.
He seemed familiar Torah.
“Where I have heard of it?”
Most likely, it belonged to one of the girls to move together with Gillette.
It seems that it was the girl-magician, or rather a sort of engineer craftsman, skillful with Gundo and komboklinkami.
– Vision and hearing we can still cheat, but …
– But the feeling something more – finished Toru.- foolish to think that you are well hidden, if cheated only two feelings.
The attacks surrept.i.tiously saboteurs understood very well.
Naturally, they thoroughly know the techniques to disappear from the eyes, to suppress the voice and hide the presence of a fully merge with the environment.
large machine movement inevitably created a vibration, from which you can get rid of only raising the aggregate into the air.
But most importantly, the Torah clearly felt her presence. It was not as distinct as bloodthirsty aura … but it is threatening, suffocating presence did not go unnoticed.
– …
The white car stopped about a hundred yards from the squad Torah.
Following this, the door swung open on the sides and on each side of the machine came on 2 people.
“In one more?”
Thor squinted and looked at “enemies”.
Three of the four he learned.
Knight Alberic.
Mercenary Nicholas.
a.s.sa.s.sin Vivi.
I think they called each other by these names.
Latest … Toru was unfamiliar, like a half-breed, a young man with animal ears and a tail. But, of course, it is also to be feared. Though he looked frail, but if his body was changed by magic, it’s hard to say what skills he acquired at the same time. He could and did turn out to be the most unpleasant of the opponents.
In addition, four of the case is not restricted.
At least was someone else who is driving the car.
“That’s bad…”
Hardly Alberic squad will make mistakes and this time. It seems that Nicholas’s hand completely healed, and besides, they had not known and what they are capable fighter.
It can be said, the squad lost the Torah as the largest and preparedness.
In a fair fight for victory chances were virtually absent.
– Akari – said Toru, staring at the detachment Alberic. – Both on the left of you. Mastered?
Mercenary Nikolai … and boy-Blood.
Strong in the form of Nicholas and Blood with unknown fighting style.
It might seem that the Torah shoved on Akari most annoying enemies.
But…
– Brother … – Akari responded remarkably untouched voice. – It turns out, you’re so kind.
It seems that she came to the same conclusion that he did. Given the fact that they grew up in a village and were trained in some teachers, this is not surprising.
– Although I would not mind, if you started a little trust in me.
– It’s not that I doubt your abilities.
– I understand, but … but now is not the time to complain about your excessive care. I take my words back.
– Thank you – briefly replied Thor.
Nikolai seemed formidable giant, but in reality, he “recovered” only recently.
Of course, thanks to the magic of the broken bone has fused his hands … but it is unlikely he recently worked it as before. If he’d overexert unhealed hand, it would break again. Further, multiple fractures would lead to “problems” in the bones and loss of its strength.
But if he did not use his hand … his muscles were to weaken.
Naturally, he was still a man of extraordinary techniques … but still had to become less formidable opponent than the previous time.
More … boy-Blood.
He was unarmed.
Anyway, visually no major weapons he did not bring. Perhaps somewhere under your clothes hid daggers, but thin, even frail body of a type allowed to judge that the great physical strength he did not possess.
He could attack only near, fast attacks.
So, for this pair Akari probably would have been easier opponents by her arms, allowing you to keep the enemy at a distance.
– Seagull – Thor said in a hushed voice. – If the part of their machines will be at least some movement, drop everything, do not think about us and shoot. If possible, the most powerful spell.
– M … um, – Seagull gulped and nodded.
And then…
– Torah and … Akari, am I right? – Alberic spoke to them in a clear voice.
Neither Thor nor Akari did not call out his name. Apparently, they asked around in Delsorante. So … their school and the name of his native village, they still did not know. When they were living as refugees, that no one ever called his name.
– In any case, I ask. Surrender. I do not want pointless battle.
– Nonsense going delirious talk, – said Toru extracting komboklinki from its sheath.
– You’re going to fight to the last?
The voice sounded astonished.
It seems that he did not expect that saboteurs may fight in unfavorable conditions for them.
In contrast to the n.o.ble and notable people carrying the burden of religious beliefs forced to justify the confidence and support of the state of mind of civilians, saboteurs have had no reason to sacrifice their lives to defend anything. they could even cut the family ties if necessary.
But…
– I understand that in your eyes we are worse than dogs – we have no principles, no faith, we just happily wags his tail to employers. But that’s why there is one trait that does not even have crossed us.
Torah combined printing on hand stamped on the handle.
Feelings widened and, from that moment on, the Torah komboklinki steel parts of the body. Of course, this is not Gundo magician, but enhanced senses allowed to increase the accuracy of the movements. So the owner komboklinkov could even tie their shoelaces using.
– I mean, saboteurs would not hand over their client for fear of the enemy.
Though saboteurs on the battlefield and hate … they themselves are proud of their unquestioning loyalty to their masters. Saboteur could not leave or betray his master. Literally could not. At this very moment he ceased to be a saboteur, a professional in their field, and turned into a common criminal.
Since the other principles and taboos have saboteurs was not for this they held as their own meaning of life.
– What big words – mockingly said a.s.sa.s.sin named Vivi. – But the true essence of saboteurs – cheats and tricks, is not it?
– And a.s.sa.s.sins?
– …
Vivi was not found with the answer.
Strictly speaking … saboteurs and a.s.sa.s.sins did not differ from each other.
These are two unattractive profession, engaged in dark, dirty business, from which others look away.
The only difference is that if the saboteurs – jack of all trades, the a.s.sa.s.sins specialize in one thing. Also, the difference can be called that a.s.sa.s.sins are usually not acted on the battlefield and on the home front, among the ordinary people.
– Clearly, – said Alberic, interfering with talking Torah and Vivi. – I was sure that the saboteurs had studied, but it seems that I still have a lot to learn. I apologize for my rudeness and insulting offer to surrender.
Alberic took his sword and stepped forward.
He looked at the Torah view, which was no doubt a drop, and said:
– No matter how small it may be, it is still war. Well, let our forces will determine the winner. I, Knight Alberic Gillette, I declare war on you.
These words were the signal for the beginning of the battle.
At a time when the numerical superiority on the side of the enemy, try to tighten the bout extremely stupid.
Tighten them in a long exhausting battle – and the chances of winning would have evaporated. The cornerstone of their victory was to be an early capture of the benefits and conditions of dictation. Saboteurs perfectly able to shoot down opponents with a sense of his speed.
But…
– “I am the steel,” – the beginning of the reading of Akari “Zheleznokroviya” key, not taking his eyes off opponents. – “Steel no fear,” “doubt become unknown”, “standing against the enemy, I will not hesitate,” “I have a gun, carrying your death.”
With these words she opened the door that is.
This procedure is the release of sealed deep in the body fierce beast. After each sentence she felt like falling down the chain dormant in the heart of creation, and it pops up all of the above.
Colorless beast, brought up for battle.
Do not raging. Do not cruel.
Just extremely dangerous, like a flame or a blade.
– Phew …
Akari faintly smiled and licked her lips.
Blood circulates at high speed through the body, all muscles could at any moment to give everything to the full. In the consciousness of Akari rapid stream flowed dilated experience. “Zheleznokrovie” so dramatically increased the sensitivity that the person using it seemed that he was more than usual.
And that is why this technique – a double-edged weapon.
Without careful monitoring, you can remain completely defenseless.
– …
Entered in the battle mode Akari peered into the oncoming enemies.
They were the ant.i.thesis of each other.
Close muscular middle-aged man.
And the skinny little boy-Blood.
The greatest attention should be given to a man with an impressive kombomechom – Nicholas.
Of course, the boy would hardly worth ignoring. But the skinny kind of leads to the conclusion that strong muscles he did not possess. Anyway, his body can not be called a warrior’s body.
Surely he had with him some kind of weapon, but it is likely that some small and targeted for lethal strikes in vital organs. This means that the opportunities to attack him a little bit. Suffice it to protect vital organs from targeted attacks.
At the same time Nicholas, along with his great sword strong enough to break through any defense. One missed hitting could be enough to break the muscles and bone fracture. In the end, “Zheleznokrovie” could strengthen the body, and therefore, Akari had to avoid a frontal collision with an opponent.
– What? – With a half smile I asked Nicholas. – Are not you going to attack?
He said that the above-mentioned “cornerstone”.
Outnumbered Akari could not stand by and watch. She had not a moment to lose and try to win as quickly as possible.
But, alas, behind her was a seagull, unable to fight in close combat.
Most likely, opponents just waiting for exactly what it is separated from it.
– If you’re not going to attack, I’ll do it, – said Nikolay, vzvalivaya sword on his shoulder. – Although the fight against women and it will be difficult.
And in the next moment he was gone ….
Do not Nicholas.
And that Blood that was standing nearby.
– ..
Yes, the words of Nicholas forced her to shift attention to it. But at the same time, she did not let the boy out of sight. But it missed him. This meant that he moved so fast that the eye did not keep up with him.
But…
“Probably I should say thank you to Guy” – flashed the thought in the back of Akari consciousness.
After the sudden appearance and disappearance of Guy she is not so surprised at such things.
Movement different from movements of the boy Guy. Yes, she missed him, but could still find again. Thanks to the “Zheleznokroviyu” Akari already knew what had happened.
Boy-Blood jumped aside to go to the other side.
She could not see his eyes, but could feel the vibration of the earth at a time when he pulled away from her.
Left? On right? Top?
Akari immediately found the answer and lifted her hammer, ready to defend himself. Light opponents often relied on agility to apply more dangerous blows. Rotary Hammer Akari was ready to meet a hacking attack from the jump, and the stabbing flank attack with acceleration.
Akari a.s.sumed that the boy attacked her on top.
But…
– … ?!
He did not attack.
Moreover, in the next moment he landed right on Akari – more than he could reach her hammer. Yes, he really jumped, but not to try to attack her.
But why?
Akari realized it the next moment.
Its hammer, which she dropped almost instinctively took a powerful blow. For a moment, at which Akari looked away from Nicholas opinion, he could swing a sword.
– … !!!
The Sword and the Sickle grappled with a loud clang.
Put Akari hammer a moment later or not applicable “Zheleznokrovie” and the sword would have pierced her breast.
Nicholas … was terrible adversary. Surprisingly fast for its size.
Of course, the Torah was telling her about his abilities, and she tried to be careful … but Nicholas had enough of the moment, won the boy in order to exploit this vulnerability, and to strike.
The blade slid along the hammer, striking sparks.
Well, that hammer is very strong weapon.
What a thin sword in its place would be immediately broken.
– H … ng
Unable to resist the power of the enemy, Akari beginning tend to hammer in the direction to retract stroke, together with the writing on the ground round the left foot to get closer to the side of the enemy. the enemy was a two-handed sword. This meant that during the swing side of it were left unprotected and defenseless remained after the side opposite to the direction of swing.
There was a click, and boot from it seemed hidden blade.
It was intended to strike at the enemy’s side or in the armor joints. Mortal wounds inflicted it is not, but could weaken the enemy.
Akari was about to strike the blow …
– … ?!
Suddenly the corner of my eye noticed that the boy began to move again.
He approached exactly right to Akari, to the foot, which she revolved.
–
She missed the bandwagon and fall, the battle would have been completely lost.
Not daring to continue to attack Akari force beginning omit an arc in the direction of Nicholas left leg, thus standing in an unstable position.
– Heh … – on the face of Nicholas I flashed a smile.
– Tx ?!
He abruptly changed the trajectory of the sword … or rather, the direction in which applies the force. Slides along the hammer blade suddenly began to press strongly on her side. Due to the fact that Akari left leg was still in the air, she could not stand such a pulse and began to overwhelm.
Full drop to avoid possible … but only due to the fact that she put her knee into the ground.
“Enough already rush ..!” – Exclaimed mentally Akari, again noticing the corner of his eye half-breed … or rather, he specifically drew attention to themselves.
Her opponents acted team. And we interacted at a very high level.
In fact, the boy-Blood does not even attacked. He just flashed constantly in sight Akari. And, of course, she could not ignore it. But as soon as her attention switched to him, the attack began Nikolai.
And besides, Nicholas himself, in spite of its impressive size, was surprisingly quick and agile.
Change the path in the middle of a two-handed sword stroke practically impossible. At first glance it might seem that Nicholas – one who wins by brute force of the enem