I teleport to the closest relay point to Mitakihara Station. Donning the disguise suit, I recall from the Great Mage's notes that this divine fabric provides substantial defensive power. Coupled with the inherited level and massively enhanced physical resilience, I trust it can withstand bullets.

Previously, I considered buying a heavy, plain-colored coat for concealment after the video's comments, but those are unexpectedly expensive. For a high schooler without a job, it's out of reach. Even if I could afford it, I’d prioritize defense for this occasion.

Checking the station's location on my phone, I see it’s quite far. Traveling by train or bus would take too long, so creating wind magic platforms to run through the air is faster. Yet, there’s an even quicker method. From the relay point building, I create wind platforms to ascend to a higher altitude.

After the factory explosion incident, I’ve been brainstorming ways to move more efficiently. This is my answer.

“Wind Shot!”

Wind Shot, an intermediate wind magic, launches wind bullets. Its defining traits are being invisible to the eye and extremely fast. Dodging such a high-speed, invisible wind bullet is nearly impossible, though its power is relatively low.

Maximizing its potential, I direct the spell at myself.

“Whoa—!”

I’m blasted forward at incredible speed. Accelerating from zero to what feels like airplane velocity in an instant, even with my magically enhanced body, the wind pressure threatens to crush me.

This speed far surpasses running through the air. However, it has severe drawbacks: I can’t change direction or stop abruptly.

During a trial run in the other world, I lost sight of my destination in a flash due to the extreme speed. Worse, at a low altitude, I failed to turn and slammed into a mountain.

There’s no time to enjoy the scenery. Even with my enhanced body, it hurt, and I swore I’d only use this method in emergencies. Now is such a time. I’ve gained enough altitude to avoid crashing into buildings—hopefully.

“Whoa—!”

Using my phone to check directions, I continuously adjust my course, repeatedly propelling myself with Wind Shot toward my destination.

“How are things going?”

“As planned. No issues so far. All those years of planning have finally paid off.”

“We’re currently negotiating with the government. Our mission is to secure the release of our imprisoned comrades and our leader!”

“Yes, with this many hostages, the nation will act. Plus, all the media and online chatter are centered on us. This is the perfect chance to spread our cult’s teachings across Japan.”

The plan is flawless. Occupying the station on a Sunday morning, when there are fewer salarymen and more families, ensures a substantial number of hostages.

We first secured the station, lowered the shutters, and took hostages inside. Then, we commandeered a train that arrived, locking the passengers inside without opening the doors. Splitting the hostages between the train and the station makes it harder for law enforcement to storm us.

So far, we’ve only fired warning shots without harming any hostages—but that won’t last. The government clearly has no intention of complying with our demands at this stage. To show we mean business, a few casualties are inevitable. We’re prepared for a long standoff, and every one of us is ready to die.

With this many hostages, killing a few as a warning won’t matter. We’ll execute someone who resists as an example. Our teachings are absolute, and our leader is divine!

“It’s time. As expected, the government hasn’t granted our demands.”

“Just as planned. No way they’d cave this quickly.”

“Then, as scheduled, we’ll kill a hostage to make our point. Choose a young child as the example. Once the peace-obsessed populace sees our resolve, the government will submit to our demands.”

“Alright, I’ll pick someone now. Not gonna lie—it’s a bit unsettling…”

“Don’t waver. The death of infidels means nothing. Remember, we’re prepared to kill all the hostages if necessary.”

“...You’re right. All for the sake of our god!”

“Pick anyone and bring them here. We’ll record their execution and broadcast it to the world. The least we can do is make it quick—it’s the only mercy we can offer.”

“Understood. I’m on it.”