Forced Breakthrough

"This is the free merchant vessel Fusuki and Tsukikage, affiliated with the Salius Province Free Merchant Fleet of the Akneria Galactic Federation. Registration numbers AS1480G and AS1851GC. We are currently engaged in civilian cargo transport. Requesting permission to dock at Wesley Central Colony."

As Seira transmitted the message in all directions, Fusuki and Tsukikage approached the combat zone.

"Looks like we're being pushed back harder than expected by the colony side..."

The battlefield seemed to be favoring the imperial forces, with fighting now spreading even to the vicinity of the colony.

"Shin nosuke, we're getting no response from either side at the moment. No permission to dock from the colony either."

"With all that chaos going on, it's unavoidable. We'll proceed along our planned route while being careful not to provoke either side. Tsukikage, stay close."

『Tsukikage understands!』

The two ships increased their speed to circumvent the combat zone.

"Commander Shinnosuke, a portion of the Imperial fleet's right wing has turned toward us—two cruisers and five destroyers. Weapon control radar has locked onto us!"

The Imperial forces didn't seem inclined to let Shinnosuke's group pass unimpeded.

"Understood! If they're only locking onto us with weapon control radar, they won't attack immediately. Let's keep moving. Andy, don't panic!"

"R-right, understood!"

"Shinnosuke-san, we're receiving a communication from the Imperial ships. They're demanding a boarding inspection. What should we do?"

Under these circumstances, it's impossible for the Imperial forces to conduct a boarding inspection.

Their actions would be a violation of international law.

Shinnosuke has no hesitation.

"Refusal. Hand over their communications to us. I'll personally inform them of our firm refusal."

Seyla shook her head in response to Shinnosuke's words.

"Um, I'm Fusaki's communications officer. Please leave it to me."

Shinnosuke shrugged, seeing Seyla's determined expression.

"Fine, leave it to Serah. Either way, there'll be trouble. Milena, keep a close watch on the Imperial ships and maintain strict perimeter surveillance."

"Understood. I'll handle it."

Fubuki and Tsukikage maintained their course and speed, avoiding provoking the Imperial ships.

The Imperial vessels approached from the port side and rear.

"Notification to the Akneria freighter: We will conduct a boarding inspection. Immediately stop your vessel."

The Imperial ships repeatedly issued orders to stop.

Seira took a deep, deliberate breath.

This is the Free Merchant Ship Escort Vessel Fubuki, affiliated with the Salius District Free Merchant Fleet Association of the Acneria Galactic Federation. We are currently navigating within the territory of the Damura Star Cluster Commonwealth. Within the Commonwealth's territory, Rimuria Galactic Empire vessels do not have the authority to board and inspect civilian ships. In accordance with international law, we hereby refuse your inspection of our vessel.

Seyla calmly and matter-of-factly conveys her refusal.

"This sector is under the control of the Rimulia Galactic Empire. Stop your vessel immediately. We will not hesitate to attack if you do not comply. I repeat, stop your vessel immediately!"

"We refuse. Your actions constitute a clear violation of international law. If you persist in violating international law and attempt to harm our vessel, we will take the necessary measures for self-defense in accordance with the law."

Shin nosuke activated the fire control system.

"Repeat: Immediately stop your vessel! This is the final warning!"

"We reject your demand. Your request violates international law."

The imperial ship responds to Seira's resolute refusal.

"Imperial vessel showing signs of firing! The cruiser's main gun is aiming at us!"

Shin nosuke nods at Milina's report.

"Not locked. It's a warning, but if the imperial ship fires, we'll act immediately."

"Understood!"

On the bridge of the Fubuki, following after Mirina, Andy maintained a strained composure despite his tension.

Yet both hands gripping the steering wheel and throttle lever were drenched in sweat.

"If the imperial ship fires, Shin nosuke should slow down. That way, we'll lull the enemy into complacency, and then..."

Andy murmured, confirming the next steps, understanding Shin Nosuke's intentions correctly, aided by Marks' advice.

"The imperial ship fired! It grazed just in front of Fubuki!"

Reacting to Ellen's shout, Andy simultaneously slowed down Tsukikage along with Fubuki ahead.

"Ellen, send out an emergency signal here!"

"Got it!"

"I'll focus on navigation, so I'm entrusting weapon control to you, Marks."

"Understood."

(Enemy ship ahead, to the right, or perhaps...?)

Andi focused all his attention on Fubuki's movements.

"Imperial vessel fired! Close call, but no direct hit."

At the same moment Mikaela reported the Imperial ship's attack, Shinnosuke abruptly slowed Fubuki.

"Attacked by enemy vessel. Initiating defensive measures from this point onward."

Understood. This is the free merchant escort vessel Fubuki and Tsukikage, affiliated with the Salius Province Free Merchant Guild of the Acneria Galactic Federation. We have come under attack from a Rimlia Empire vessel! We are requesting rescue from the Damura Star Cluster Commonwealth military. Additionally, this vessel and its accompanying ships are now entering self-defense operations as escort vessels.

As Ceyla broadcast the legitimacy of Fubuki and Tsukikage to all directions, Shinnosuke moved.

"Emergency starboard turn, maximum speed ahead!"

Shinnosuke maneuvered Fubuki into a sharp turn.

On the port side were two Imperial cruisers and one destroyer.

With Fubuki now turned, the Imperial cruisers were directly ahead.

"Milena, take temporary command. Keep full power and break through the enemy formation. You've got control."

"I've got it! Leave it to me!"

Milena sharply pushed the throttle lever forward, accelerating the Fubuki.

Confirming that Tsukikage was keeping pace with the Fubuki's sudden maneuver, Shinosuke locked onto the enemy cruiser ahead.

"I can't let them sink, but I'll make them look foolish."

He manually adjusted the crosshair on the glass monitor to the cruiser's engine and pulled the trigger.