前のエピソード――Chapter Five Part Eight | Let's Introduce

　Chapter 5 Part 9 | Central's Announcement

　"At ease Lieutenant." Shigure doesn't want to spend more time here than necessary. To get back to his quarters, fill out required paperwork, and read up on the new Akasha squadron; That's what he wants to do.

　"Sir." Yoneda drops his hand as ordered.

　Everyone watches on expectantly, assuming there will be more added by their commanding officer. However, instead there's just a momentary silence.

　"Ah, well. Expect another 3 members to transfer here soon. I trust you'll treat them kindly..."

　"Of course sir~!"

　"You can count on us!"

　"Great." The longer Shigure remains, the more apparent his lack of small talk abilities dawn upon him. Seeing no-one else appears to want to speak with him, he gives a brief nod, turning to the door. Streamers and confetti little the floor, and a welcome sign he hadn't noticed before.

　"We interrupt normal broadcasting with a message from the Central Army."

　'Ah, a governmental announcement? This'll be interesting.' Shigure halts, and spins to the rec-room's TV. "Shh, everyone."

　Flickering with static briefly, the face of a high-ranking military official is projected onto the screen. Outward appearance to the public is extremely important to this day's military. Hence, despite the man's good looks, Shigure doubt's his authenticity as a real officer.

　"Good morning citizens of Japan. At approximately 07:00, an unknown naval presence was intercepted in the Okhotsk sea. Our Maritime Defence Force promptly dealt with the Armada, sustaining no casualties." The man's smile is painfully fake, like he's reading from a teleprompter. "Roughly 20 minutes later, a squadron of fighters entered the Absolute Defence Zone in the Hokkaido Region. Presumptively originating from the aforementioned Armada."

　"Oh man... Nephilim..?"

　"Can-it Miyake." Sergeant Nao places a finger on his lips, nodding towards the TV. Miyake uttering 'Sorry bro...'

　"Hokkaido's Coastal Defence Divisions sortied from multiple bases, proceeding to engage the unknown squadron. However, they managed to elude our country's supreme pilots. Reports from radar stations and pilot combat statements, suggest these unknown forces were Northern Federation."

　Gasps and shocked expressions fill the room. As far as they were concerned, the Northern Federation was a myth. Just a fun story or theory to discuss during break. But a real threat? It's not something they ever expected.

　"Y-"

　"Shh!" It's important for Shigure to hear this. If it involves the military, it likely involves him also.

　"Our great Citizens of Japan, please do not fear. This is currently under investigation by the NDECK-J and Central Army. Remember, your safety is our number-one priority. Await further updates from the Central Army. Do not panic, continue your daily routines for the benefit of our country. If you have any concerns or queries, speak to your local Military Police stationed in your area for information. Long live Japan! Glory to the rising sun!"