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Abas is a large country.

While it may not play the role of a major power like the Kien Empire, which draws on its vast natural resources to support authoritarian governments worldwide, or like the cult that commits various atrocities backed by religious authority, Abas is nonetheless one of the nations recognized as a ‘great power.’

Economic power,

Diplomatic power,

Military power,

Intelligence power,

Advanced science and technology, magical engineering, academia, politics, and so forth.

There are many reasons why Abas qualifies as a great power, and its vast territory is one of them.

With fertile soil and a developed chemical industry, agricultural production is excellent; natural resources like steel and coal are abundant, and geographically, it can connect to other continents by sea without passing through Patalia or Lushan.

Moreover, its land area is vast—larger than the combined areas of France, Germany, the Netherlands, and Belgium.

Anyway.

The area we find ourselves in is a coastal city located in the southeastern region of Abas.

This place is influenced by a Mediterranean climate, making it mild year-round, renowned for olive and grape farming, and a popular residence for the wealthy for various reasons for centuries. It’s also famous for tourism and leisure.

Incidentally, this is common knowledge even among the Military Intelligence Agency. There is a naval base and military resort nearby, making it easy for intelligence officers to visit during their vacations. It’s said to be a great place for solo visits or family outings.

Yeah.

It’s a lovely place to visit alone, but…

“Why do we have to crowd around in a group in such a nice place? I just can’t understand—”

“Be quiet!”

Episode 9 – Old Fashioned

The port city located in southeastern Abas. The sea, viewed from the sandy beach, was breathtaking.

The vast, blue expanse of the sea rolled in gently, and sunlight fell on the pristine white sand where waves crashed and receded.

Distant sounds of ship horns and waves could be heard. Ships bustling with goods and people were visible. Those who had sailed to the continent, seized with hopeful dreams, worries, passions, and poverty, disembarked.

As the tears of immigrants leaving their hometowns soaked into the sand and flowed out to the sea, memories resurfaced.

One day, after graduating university and being appointed as a reserve officer, I flipped through an old, tattered French book I bought from a used bookstore, proudly boasting to my colleagues that I would save money to visit that coastal city in southern France.

“…….”

The sky and clouds, the sea and waves.

Sand slipping between my toes and the smell of the sea washing over me.

Lost in nostalgia, I furrowed my brow at the scent of cigarette smoke carried by the wind.

“Saint, could you please extinguish that cigarette? Why are you smoking here at the sea?”

“How about you recommend cutting out solid food instead? That’s something I can do.”

Veronica, dressed in thin attire, turned back to me with a sly smile. The thin, gray smoke enveloped my face like a veil.

“Don’t smoke on the street. It’s inconsiderate.”

“But there’s no one around here. It’s just us.”

“It seems the saint doesn’t think she’s bothering me at all.”

In response to my not-so-subtle jab, Veronica perked up her lips slightly.

“It’s just the two of us; why bother nitpicking?”

She placed her half-smoked cigar in a portable ashtray, and I shook my head, turning my gaze back to the sea.

Camila, Lucia, and Francesca were walking along the beach. The image of the three walking against the backdrop of the sunny, mild southeastern coast of Abas was almost picturesque.

While watching my companions stroll along the sandy shore, Veronica, stretching and yawning, asked with a lazy gaze.

“So, what’s this place for?”

“A military base.”

“A military facility? Here?”

“More precisely, it’s a military resort.”

This was a leisure area managed by the Abas military.

Active soldiers and reserves, as well as employees of the Advanced Military Magic Research Institute or civilian workers, could utilize it, though the Ministry of Defense operated it.

The Abas government had opened this military resort to the four of them visiting for leisure.

When you think about it, this was more about keeping them out of trouble than providing hospitality for dignitaries. Yet, since they seemed content, and the government was treating them well, nobody took it as confinement.

Except for me, who had to attentively serve foreign guests during my vacation.

“Shouldn’t we not be allowed to use a military resort?”

“It’s a security necessity. At least it’s manageable since this is a military facility and we can control who enters.”

“Ah, I see!”

Veronica nodded, smiling brightly.

Just then, the three distant figures, flailing about, squealed as a wave suddenly rushed in.

“There’s no one but us here, yet this place is pretty nice. Among the military, it’s known for its scenery and facilities, and there are plenty of activities nearby. Generals often use it; sometimes even royalty visits.”

“Yet you don’t seem particularly cheerful to be in such a good place?”

“Thanks to whom?”

I waved my hand dismissively, joking.

We walked along the white sand, engaging in lighthearted chatter. It wasn’t particularly deep conversation.

“How’s the body? Is your finger okay now?”

“Oh, the finger? It’s….”

I awkwardly raised my thumb and forced a smile.

It had been a week since the incident, but my thumb still felt oddly off.

“The sensation is still a bit strange. I can’t bend my finger well either.”

“Hmm… I think you’ll need more treatment. You said you got a month’s leave, right? I’ll help you as much as I can, so take your time with the recovery.”

Veronica mentioned that she and Lucia would help me with my injuries for a month. I had no reason to decline their offer, so I simply agreed.

“It seems all three of you have become fast friends. Is our hero particularly friendly?”

“I guess so.”

To be honest, Lucia and Francesca weren’t the type to make the first move and try to befriend others. It’s not that they were shy; their upbringings made it difficult for them to easily connect with others.

In contrast, Camila was the most sociable among us.

She had no hesitation in talking to strangers and always wore a cheerful smile, engaging everyone with her lively personality.

So it was only natural for the trio to become friends.

“What about the Colonel?”

Veronica chimed in.

“Have you become close with my siblings? The last time I saw you, it seemed like you were quite close with the hero, hugging in the hallway.”

“Well, if someone heard that, they’d think we’re dating.”

“Oh dear. Was it not?”

If someone had heard this, I would have wanted to hit them, but I held back. After all, it’s customary to stockpile points and unleash them all at once later. I’d need to plan my moment of vengeance.

“We’re not that kind of relationship. And frankly, I’m still not very close with those two.”

“Then how about taking this chance to get closer?”

Veronica smiled kindly. Having taken off her sandals, she walked barefoot on the sandy beach.

“Still, after all the hardships of the past few months, don’t you think it’d be nice to relax together while you’re here?”

I subtly turned my head to glance at the trio’s location.

Camila, Lucia, and Francesca running on the beach were happily splashing in the water.

Looking at the sea reminded me of my training days, and a chill ran down my spine.

Thinking about those unpleasant memories made me shudder, and Veronica suddenly looked concerned as she examined my expression.

“I just want to relax alone….”

Without realizing it, Veronica had moved closer, inspecting every detail.

“Come on. Don’t be like that; let’s play together. If you get closer to my siblings now, won’t it be worth it?”

“Is there really a need for that…?”

“Then you’ll be avoiding them for a lifetime? Like now?”

I shrugged to avoid the question. At that moment, Veronica’s dark eyebrows twitched.

“Colonel, what did I ask you last time?”

“You asked me to treat your siblings nicely.”

“And you remember that. But why is your reaction like this? Did you not listen?”

With an exasperated expression, Veronica patted her chest, making me distracted by the slight shudder of her figure through her thin garment.

It was such a shocking sight I couldn’t take my eyes off, but her next words brought me back.

“Honestly, tell me. Back in the academy, you couldn’t even look girls in the eye, could you?”

“Where do you get off barking like a dog…?”

I plugged my ears with my fingers.

Never thought I’d get called out by an information agent for being a late bloomer. I might not be the first to receive such teasing from a saint.

It was ridiculous, but it was a fact that left me unable to argue.

“Saint, could you not hit me with the truth and challenge me with decent framing instead?”

“Quit talking nonsense. Don’t act like an awkward loser and get in the water already!”

*

Veronica grabbed me, dragging me towards the sea. It was a sudden burst.

As the water lapped at our ankles, Veronica and I pushed against each other, struggling back and forth.

She was determined to shove me into the water while I fought to stay where I was.

“Are you going to keep resisting…?!”

“No! Why are you suddenly trying to dunk me in the sea?!”

But Veronica showed no signs of backing down. She was proving that she hadn’t wasted her time in the central government with her sheer determination to get me wet.

Someone joined her playful antics.

Surprisingly, it was Lucia.

“Saint Lucia…? What are you doing…?”

“I’m sorry.”

“Uh, uh-oh….”

Lucia appeared from behind, picked me up effortlessly, and threw me towards the sea.

I soared briefly in the air before landing right in the water. It felt like I’d fallen a few meters.

– Splash!

“…Pfft-! …Cough, cough…!”

The sea in December was colder than I expected.

But being suddenly thrown in caused seawater to rush into my nose.

Struggling to regain my footing, I surfaced and saw my friends staring at me.

Camila had wide eyes, Lucia looked apologetic with an awkward smile, Francesca had an amused grin, while Veronica burst into laughter at my predicament.

The sight was infuriatingly hilarious, so I retaliated by throwing Veronica and Lucia into the sea.

“Kyahhh!”

“Oof…!”

Of course, I didn’t throw them far, so they quickly surfaced.

Spitting out water, Veronica pouted, sticking her tongue out.

“What do you think I should do about my clothes not being changed after throwing me in?”

“Then why did you throw me?!”

“Because it’s fun!”

I couldn’t believe it. Annoyed, I pretended to help Veronica up, only to trip her, sending her back into the water.

The splash from Veronica hitting the water stirred up waves.

As I laughed at the scene, I found my neck suddenly wrapped in Veronica’s arms, pulling me back underwater.

We clung together, tumbling through the water, and when we resurfaced, a wave promptly slapped us both in the face.

As Camila, Lucia, and Francesca burst into laughter at the sight, we exchanged silent glances and then tossed all three into the sea together.

We lost track of time as we played, completely absorbed in our happiness.

It was a fleeting bliss.

*

Time flowed, and evening arrived. The sun dipped below the horizon, hiding behind it, while the shy moon peeked out to brighten the night sky.

We emerged from the water, looking like castaways escaping a shipwreck.

After several hours in the water, our hands and feet were white and wrinkled. I shivered, likely from the drop in body temperature, and even a light breeze made me tremble, compounded by the emptiness in my stomach.

“Whew, it’s cold….”

“First, everyone should go in and take a shower. We prepped the necessary items inside, so just grab your room key and head in. I’ll call you when dinner is ready.”

“Yeah….”

After sending the group to their rooms, I returned to my own to shower.

Once I finished and began contacting officials from the Ministry of Defense, Foreign Affairs, Embassy, and Delegation, the timing worked out perfectly as my friends were wrapping up their showers too, allowing us to have dinner together.

“Now it feels like a real vacation. Right, Colonel?”

“It does.”

At long last, I felt I was genuinely enjoying my leave.

But just because I was on vacation didn’t mean things couldn’t happen.

Camila, Lucia, Francesca, and Veronica were high-profile individuals who would be treated like VIPs wherever they went. Particularly, Lucia, Veronica, and Francesca wielded immense influence over the central government of the cult, the Oracle, and the Secretariat linking the magical tower with governmental institutions.

Perhaps sensing a need for caution in having such influential people gathered, diplomats from the cult and the magical tower had come looking for us.

However, no matter how much of a diplomat one might be, they couldn’t just order around saints and administrators.

In the end, the person expected to handle them was none other than me.

“Welcome, Excellency.”

“Nice to meet you, Colonel Frederick Nostrim.”

“You came from the embassy, right? It’s an honor to meet you.”

“It’s a pleasure to finally meet you.”

The diplomats from the cult embassy and the deputy representative from the Magic Tower, along with their aides, were all present.

I had to face the diplomats from the cult here to see Veronica and Lucia, as well as the Magic Tower diplomat who had come to meet Francesca, along with their accompanying aides. It felt like I needed ten more bodies to manage it all, perhaps due to my tiredness.

“Where is the administrator?”

“They are preparing upstairs. Should I let them know to come down?”

“Oh, no thank you. By the way… I’ve been briefed about the regrettable incident that occurred recently.”

“Yes, please go ahead, Deputy Representative.”

“If necessary, we’d like to help resolve the incident as much as we can. If you need any assistance, please feel free to reach out…”

The Magic Tower diplomat looked like a professional diplomat. It was clear he wasn’t here for any particular purpose other than to meet Francesca. After exchanging clichéd pleasantries with me, he moved away to have a conversation with Francesca.

On the other hand, the diplomat from the cult was an information officer. Although he didn’t formally reveal his identity, I could sense it from our brief conversation.

“I’ve heard news regarding the terrorism incident. You were directly involved on-site, correct?”

“Yes, that’s right. Is that why you came?”

“Sort of. It must be quite shocking, but if you recall any details, could you please reach out to me separately? This is my personal number.”

This was an official information officer. Typically, embassy or consular levels handle senior roles at overseas branches, so this person likely had a high position within the Abas branch or might even be the branch head.

Considering he came forward personally to give me his personal number, it seemed that the Abas Information Agency wasn’t properly sharing information with the Inquisition.

For now, I’ll just take the business card and hold off.

“Understood. If anything comes to mind, I’ll contact you right away.”

“Thank you. Oh, and this is a gift from the cult for you, Colonel. It’s meant to wish you a speedy recovery, so please don’t feel burdened by it.”

The envoy from the cult handed me a bundle of gifts. I heard it was something that would help in recovering my health. It seemed to be some form of compensation for the hardships I faced at the department store, especially since Lucia was also there.

While I appreciated the gift, regrettably, it was a present given with expectations. More specifically, it served as a medium for approaching me and establishing a connection. They would probably ask how I found the gift they gave me back then before my memories faded. It was such a predictable tactic.

So, I decided to refuse it.

Whatever the Inquisition wanted, it was of no concern to me.

As I was chuckling and exchanging pleasantries with the envoy, Lucia, Veronica, and Camila came down after finishing their preparations and joined the group. The cult’s diplomats made sure the safety of the saints was assured, while a few subtly approached Camila. I kept my distance and tried to memorize the faces of the diplomats talking to Camila.

After about two hours of meetings, the time had finally reached 10:30 PM.

At last, a moment of respite awaited me.

“Ah, it’s finally over….”

“Good job.”

Right after the meeting ended, everyone was exhausted and returned to their rooms, leaving just me and Camila awake.

Camila, who came in with hands full of tea, smiled brightly and offered me a cup.

“Thank you.”

“It’s hot, so take your time drinking it. It could burn you.”

“Okay.”

I accepted the steaming cup. Cautiously blowing on it to cool it down, I savored the now slightly lukewarm tea.

The flavor was excellent.

“It’s really good. Where did you get it?”

“I made it myself.”

“You made it, Camila?”

“Yep!”

“Wow….”

It was surprising to discover such a skill. I hadn’t seen Camila making tea before, but the taste of the tea she brewed was quite delightful.

I leaned back on the sofa and sipped the tea Camila prepared.

“It’s really good.”

Camila beamed at my compliment.

“Thank you! Hehe.”

“Did you have a good day? I heard you fell into the sea several times.”

“Who’s the one who fell in more than I did? You looked dazed after getting hit by the waves, didn’t you?”

Camila teased me with a mischievous smile, exhibiting her playful nature.

“So, does that mean you’re not feeling unwell?”

“Yeah. I might be a bit tired, but I think I’ll be fine by tomorrow morning.”

“Is that so?”

I nodded with a small grin, then smiled devilishly.

“In that case, we can start from tomorrow.”

“Huh? Start what?”

“Training.”

In an instant, Camila’s smile vanished. It seemed like she had buffering issues, blinking in confusion before her eyelids started to tremble.

“…Pardon?”

“We must train. We’ve been taking a break for a while now, and if we stop here, we won’t achieve anything.”

“I thought we were on a vacation, not here to train!”

“The vacation was for me. You just sneaked into the country.”

Camila pouted gloomily, letting out a whimper. Instead of trying to argue, she quickly accepted reality.

Pouting as she absentmindedly poked the teacup with a cookie, Camila wore a sulky expression.

“What kind of training will we be doing from tomorrow?”

“A lot. Speaking skills, analysis, intelligence gathering, how to identify handlers… and of course, basic fitness training.”

“Eew….”

At the mention of fitness training, Camila let out a sound like an undead being in disgust.

“You wouldn’t make us run on the beach, would you?”

“Oh? You read my mind? Amazing… have you done that somewhere before?”

“Ahh…!”

Camila screamed even louder and twisted her body. Seeing her already writhing in agony brought a smile to my face.

If I let her be, she might just crawl on the floor, so I had to offer her some reassurance.

“It’s okay. We’ll do other things too.”

“What else?! What’s next…!”

“Shooting.”

The moment I said “shooting,” Camila bolted upright from her half-laying position on the sofa. The dull, dead look in her eyes had vanished, and her bright blue eyes were sparkling, staring at me intently.

“Shooting?”

“We need to learn to shoot too. An information officer shouldn’t be clueless about firearms, right?”

“Really…?”

“Of course.”

Instead of elaborating, I nodded, affirming the point.

Besides, I had to teach her how to shoot eventually. Given the state of the world, relying solely on magic hadn’t been a safe option for Camila until now.

So, it would be beneficial for her to learn beforehand while we had time to spare.

“Basic military training usually wraps up within a month. If we strip away the formalities and just focus on pure shooting, it’ll be useful.”

“Is that really the case?”

“You’ve mentioned having a firearm license and that you’ve shot before, right? That makes it easier.”

However,

“Just remember, firearms should only be used for defensive purposes. It’s best to avoid situations where you have to shoot in the first place. Promise me that.”

“Yes!”

Camila replied with a bright smile. She’s always on point with her responses.

I shook my head lightly while sipping my tea, and Camila kept beaming, her smile unwavering.

“Is that everything we’ll learn starting tomorrow?”

“Actually, there’s one more thing.”

“What is that?”

“Cultural knowledge of the upper class.”

“Upper-class culture?”

Camila tilted her head, puzzled, as if unsure.

“Is it really necessary to learn that?”

She was suggesting it shouldn’t matter for her tasks as an information officer. Was it truly a requirement? Camila’s question radiated that kind of vibe.

I set my teacup down and looked directly at Camila.

“Camila, do you know what cultural capital is?”

“Cultural capital? Is that the concept from sociology?”

“Yes.”

Cultural capital is a concept introduced by the French sociologist Pierre Bourdieu.

To simplify without diving into complex details, it can be explained like this:

“The tastes and preferences a person enjoys are influenced by the social background passed down from their parents.”

If a mother listens to classical music, her child will too; if a father enjoys wine, the child will also enjoy wine. A child who watched operas with their grandmother will grow up to enjoy them, and one who held their grandfather’s hand to visit special exhibitions will develop a deep appreciation for art as an adult.

In short, “the very world you live in is different.”

Thus, looking at England, the upper class enjoys cricket and horseback riding, and even though they speak the same language, their pronunciations and words differ. This phenomenon can be observed across India, France, all the way to the Americas and Asia.

“Of course, in the 21st century, this concept has diluted significantly. Nowadays, anyone with money can learn golf, and chess is easily accessible from an early age. However, there are still many areas where this isn’t the case. For example, hobbies like opera or horseback riding.”

“Oh… I understand what you mean. But is it really necessary to learn that to carry out my duties?”

“Camila, do you remember what I explained earlier? The criteria for an information officer when targeting a source. What did I say?”

“To identify their vulnerabilities and whether they can access the required intelligence…”

“Are individuals who possess information the intelligence agency would target likely to belong to the upper class or the lower class?”

“…The upper class, I suppose.”

I nodded.

“So, that’s why you need to learn. This is why information officers dispatched overseas are provided with opera tickets and are encouraged to learn golf, horseback riding, and chess. Sure, there are people who can manage without those, but it certainly doesn’t hurt to know something. They’re hobbies that won’t lead to any harm.”

Though they might harm my bank balance. Anyway.

“However, lower-class culture is not entirely without use. It can also come in handy in certain situations.”

“…What kind of culture are you referring to?”

“For example, in criminal organizations or drug cartels. If you’re going to use low-level agents, it’s essential to understand the culture of such organizations.”

After hearing my explanation, Camila seemed to grasp it well as she nodded vigorously, affirming her understanding. I always appreciated her quick responses.

I tipped my teacup and drained the remaining tea. Meanwhile, as Camila pondered deeply beside me, she suddenly uttered a question while frowning.

“But where do we learn those hobbies?”

“I know a few simple upper-class hobbies, so I can teach you. Of course, something like horseback riding might be challenging…”

“Oh, I can ride horses.”

“…Huh?”

Why do you know how to ride horses?

You’re a member of a horseback riding club?

…

I had an inkling, but it seems Camila truly was born into a wealthy family. Being a member of a horseback riding club was reminiscent of a bourgeoisie exploiting the labor of the working class.

While I felt a sudden dizziness, I was grateful that it would reduce the number of things I had to teach her.

Just then, while Camila was tidying up the teacups, she casually said,

“Have you ever met any upper-class people?”

“Me? I’m a noble here.”

“No, I mean it differently. You keep talking, and you seem familiar with the upper-class culture on Earth.”

So that’s what she meant.

I handed over my empty teacup to Camila, letting out a hum as I fell into contemplation. When was the last time I met someone from the upper class?

“Well… it’s been so long that I can’t remember when I had a real conversation with them. However, I have seen them from a distance.”

“Who was it?”

“Well, I can’t recall the name, but they were likely a deputy minister in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. The location was Caracas, and the person I conversed with was the ambassador from North Korea.”

“Caracas? You’re talking about Venezuela?”

Yes. I nodded, confirming.

“It was a short-term business trip, and I didn’t stay long in Venezuela. I mostly remained in Bogotá, crossing the border when needed.”

“Hmm… Bogotá is in Colombia, right…?”

Camila, closing her eyes softly in thought, suddenly opened wide.

“Wait a minute. Colombia and Venezuela? You were there?”

“Yes.”

“That place isn’t in a war zone, nor is it occupied by foreign troops. Moreover, it’s in South America, far from Asia…”

“…….”

“Were you not part of a special forces unit?”

“I never claimed to be from the Special Forces; I said it was a similar unit.”

“Then which unit are you from? Wait, are you even a soldier?”

“I’m indeed a soldier. I served as an officer and became appointed after finishing ROTC. Initially, it was just to cover my tuition, and I didn’t plan on settling down in the military sector.”

“Which unit did you belong to?”

“…….”

I hesitated for a long moment, debating if I should say this. It had been decades since I last blurted out the name of my unit, so it took a bit of time. I wasn’t accustomed to revealing my identity either.

Yet, the deliberation didn’t take long.

“Camila.”

“…Yes?”

“Have you ever heard of the Information Command?”

 

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