On the brink of the final battle

Amidst rapid shifts in territorial control due to the invasion of the Damura Star Cluster Commonwealth, the establishment of the Holy Rimurian Empire, and the intervention of the Akeria Galactic Federation, Fubuki and Holybell navigate the space region that has been reclaimed as part of the Damura Star Cluster Commonwealth.

The two ships were headed toward the planet Librina in the Damura Star Cluster Commonwealth, having received transport requests for pharmaceutical raw materials from the duchy government and a delivery order for rare metals from Layered Commerce.

Commanding both vessels from the bridge of Holybell was Milena.

Although Andy was originally the captain of Holybell, this time Milena was temporarily serving as captain at Andy's request.

This was because Andy lacked experience commanding multiple ships, and he felt uneasy about leading the Fukuki, which was commanded by Ash, who had more experience than him.

Although the suggestion was made that Ash should take command, Ash firmly declined.

"I could take it on, but since it's an opportunity, why don't you give it a try, Millina? You're acting as the representative of the guild in Shinnosuke's absence, aren't you? Every experience counts. I'm sure you'll handle it with ease. And Andy, you can't just stay in command of Holy Bell forever. This time, you should study convoy command right beside Millina. Don't worry—I'll back you up, and I'll guide both of you together."

In the end, Milina accepted Ash's proposal and became the captain of the Holy Bell, while Andy took on piloting duties and learned convoy command alongside her.

Incidentally, this time Seira is aboard Fubuki.

That's because the Holy Bell already has both Elen and the ultra-high-performance doll Madeira, so there are more than enough operators available.

Meanwhile, Fubuki is also well-prepared, with veteran crew members including Captain Ash, Maithe, and Shion, all former coast guard personnel. However, this time Fubuki is boarding not for combat, but to provide Shinosuke with the opportunity to learn firsthand from experienced, seasoned operators.

"This area should have been a fierce combat zone, yet it's remarkably calm."

Mireena murmurs while checking nearby space data from the Holy Bell's captain's seat.

According to the route information checked before departure, this was classified as a hazardous zone where intense combat was expected. I had considered avoiding the danger by taking a detour, depending on the situation. But upon actually arriving, I found the fighting had already ended, and most ships navigating the area were either from the Acnelia Space Fleet or public vessels belonging to the Damura Star Alliance Commonwealth.

"Beyond this sector, it appears most of the Damura Star Alliance Commonwealth's territory has already been reclaimed, leaving only the capital planet and its surrounding areas. The Holy Rimuria Empire still maintains a certain level of military strength, but it seems incapable of breaking the current deadlock. Given the situation, they may not be able to hold the front lines much longer and could likely abandon the capital planet soon."

Maderia reported the developments calmly.

"Where is this information coming from?"

Regardless of the number of people involved, specific details about the military situation are classified and not made public.

Information control by the Acneria military is strict, and such information is not easily obtainable.

"The Holy Rimuria Empire. It appears their information network has collapsed due to being at a disadvantage, making it easy to obtain through their communication satellites. Incidentally, the Imperial Navy has reported that an unidentified vessel known as a 'Phantom' is causing significant damage, and this single ship seems to be the top priority for elimination."

"Hmm... just what exactly is going on here? Is Shinnosuke-sama deliberately stepping into danger, or is it fate—no, rather, destiny itself—that's drawing danger toward Shinnosuke-sama?"

Milena sighed dramatically.

[Front Line]

The Akneria Space Fleet and the rebuilt Damura Star Alliance Commonwealth Fleet had advanced to within sight of the capital planet of the Sacred Lemurian Empire.

After the Second Fleet, the backbone of the Sacred Lemurian Imperial Fleet, began retreating, organized resistance ceased, yet the fact that more than half of the Second Fleet escaped remained undeniable.

Even the seasoned commander Isaac remained active, leading his fleet in retreat to join the remnants of the Sacred Lemurian Imperial Fleet and reinforce the defense of the capital planet.

Given the disparity in military strength, it would be nearly impossible for the Sacred Lemurian Imperial Fleet to turn the tide of battle. Yet the Aknelia forces also lack the decisive edge, and if they press their offensive recklessly, they must be prepared to suffer significant losses.

Even before the assembled fleet, General Commander Alenbar maintained a grim expression.

(Now that we've reached this point, how will the enemy respond under these overwhelmingly favorable conditions for us...? If I were the enemy commander, how would I act?)

A military commander must always anticipate the worst-case scenario, but even so, we cannot remain stagnant indefinitely.

If we give the enemy time, even without a secret strategy now, they might just come up with one out of nowhere.

Alenbar made his decision.

"Full fleet, advance toward the enemy's capital planet!"

Centered on the Akeria Space Fleet's 2nd Division, the main force launched an advance toward the capital planet of the Sacred Lymeria Empire from three directions.

(Victory is certain, but morale must not falter as a result...)

In victorious battles, soldiers' morale naturally rises, yet in fights where victory is guaranteed, it's common for troops to think, "I've come this far—I don't want to risk myself now."

That hesitation slows down action, leaving just a momentary opening for the enemy to exploit.

Looking back at history, countless armies have fallen precisely in this way.

(He'll need to take a bit more risk... just a little longer...)

The final battle is imminent.

【Nightmare】

"Really, I agreed to take this job, but it's hardly worth it..."

Sinnosuke steers the Nightmare toward the designated orbital zone, fulfilling the mission assigned to him.

"Still the same as always, Master seems to willingly approach danger and appears to enjoy it."

"Really looks that way?"

"Yes, it seems you're fearful in the face of an unavoidable fate, turning your eyes away from reality."

Sinnosuke shrugs in response to Marks' observation.

"Exactly right. You've got me figured out, Marks."

"I'm your partner, Master. I may not understand matters of the heart, but when it comes to you as a sailor, I consider myself your greatest understanding."

"That's right, isn't it? Exactly. Facing such reckless missions, I'm terrified out of my mind—so much so it's almost laughable. But since there's no way to run away, I force myself to find enjoyment in this situation. Otherwise, how could I possibly keep going!"

"I don't understand the emotion of fear, but in terms of recognizing danger, that emotion makes sense."

Shin nosuke laughs at Marks' comment.

"Exactly? 'Cowardice is the secret to a long life'—that's one of my personal principles, right up there with 'Life is a series of choices.'"

"That's very helpful. I'll make sure to record that in my main memory."

"...Are you mocking me?"

"Not at all!"

Shinnosuke and Marks laughed.