Summoning Soldiers-Seeking Divine Light

Was it a matter of do or die?

The duty of a Bushido soldier left him without a trace of doubt. "Full speed ahead! Our target is Beliu Island!"

Sure enough, an enraged roar came over the radio midway through the journey. "Sakamoto! Colonel Ito Kyo has gone mad! He actually ordered the Akagi to ram the Zuiho, seriously damaging both carriers. He'll be arrested by the military police and tried for treason! Take the air wing and return at once! I repeat, return!"

Just as expected!

The corners of Sakamoto Ryoma's mouth lifted.

Colonel Ito Kyo had long since calculated that the Americans would broadcast widely over the radio to disrupt morale.

Sakamoto ordered all the fighter pilots, "Everyone, turn off your radios. Maintain radio silence for the entire flight!"

The morning sun rose above the eastern horizon. Its dazzling light made Sakamoto squint.

"What a brilliant sun! It's the very symbol of our invincible Empire of Japan!" He remembered how, before the surprise attack on Pearl Harbor, the renowned General Yamamoto—who had since fallen in battle—had personally summoned the air-wing commanders to address them.

Sakamoto's blood surged!

This air battle over Beliu Island was my chance to make a name for myself, Sakamoto Ryoma, and avenge you, General Yamamoto!

Just as he led 90 fighter planes into a furious charge, a large number of American Mustang fighters suddenly appeared in the dazzling sunlight. Using the Japanese tactic of flying with the sun at their backs, they had concealed themselves behind the sunlight and clouds before diving down!

"The enemy is lying in ambush!" A shadow crossed Sakamoto's mind. "Zeroes! Pull up and engage! Type 99s, dive toward the sea. Fly low over the water and break through!"

Sakamoto had made the best possible response. Fifty-four Zero fighters pulled