Descendants of Time (Role-Play Act 5: Revolutionary Moment)
0
Cinia Pacifica
Ojou-sama Writer
(BGM)
Stepping out to the room in front of his office he scanned the room for the girl. In the center of the room, the girl was practicing her dance routine, completely oblivious to what was going on around her. Walking up behind her he lightly tapped her on the shoulder.
“A-Ah?! Yes?” The shy girl – startled – turned to face Hynek. “W-What… do you need?”
“Let’s get to know each other a little better,” said Hynek offering her a seat on the couch. “We are going to working closely. It is only fair that you know a few things about me, and I about you.” sitting on the couch, he patted the seat next to him, offering it to her.
Chigusa was confused. First they speak in Arabic, tells her to leave them be – so she went to practice her steps since she had nothing better to do – and now he wants to know her better? She wanted to outright ask why he hadn’t done that sooner and got it over with. Regardless, he was her boss now, and he was the main person she’d be able to fulfill her dreams.
“Ah, umm… okay,” Chigusa nodded, and sat as far as possible from Hynek on the couch. She was too shy to sit close to him, somehow she was reminded of him patting her, and it caused her cheeks to turn pink, very slightly. She couldn’t even face him in the eye anymore like this, so she simply looked down on the clean floor.
“Do I make you nervous?” asked Hynek looking at her curiously. “Perhaps we can start with me? What would you like to know? It might help you a little bit if you knew a bit about me.”
“Ah… sorry, I am just nervous before people sometimes,” Chigusa answered earnestly. “It often collides with what I want to do.”
At this point, there was a very slightly opening at the door on the back; Felix and Christie’s hawk-like gaze fell on the two from afar.
“...Um, I don’t know what to ask, but… you aren’t anyone ordinary, are you?” She asked with a very low voice, so low that Felix and Christie couldn’t even hear it.
“Ordinary wouldn’t be a word I would use to define myself to be sure.” answered Hynek. ”I am a businessman first and foremost, but as entertainment is my business, I also know how to have fun. I am a professional in that aspect.” Hynek chuckled thinking of all the good times he has had through his life. ”What would you say about yourself Chigusa? Are you ordinary? My gut tells me different.” asked Hynek.
“That’s what I thought, but that is only ordinary… Tamas-san?” She said, unsure how to address the man. “...Um, what do you mean?”
Hynek leaned in to where their faces were only a foot apart. His hand was on the arm of the couch next to her, and he had her trapped in the corner, Chigusa squirmed like a mouse caught on the trap at this. He knew this would probably be a bit much for her, but it would get his point across.
“You are a mage aren’t you?” asked Hynek.
“Too close!” The girl almost shouted, thrusting both hands forward; pushing Hynek away. “Jeez… y-you don’t have to come so close to ask that.” Chigusa sighed, as if very disappointed soon enough. “How did you know?”
Hynek chuckled at her reaction. “I have had met more than a few during my travels.” answered Hynek. “Like you guessed before. I am no one ordinary,” answered Hynek. Leaving the interpretation of what that meant to the girl’s imagination.
Chigusa only frowned in response before speaking up, “Like those two behind that door?” She said, taking a guess. “I am just an ex-member of Shrine. I want nothing to do with them anywhere… ” her hands joined over her thighs, and she turned straight and looked down.
“A clean slate, hm?” asked Hynek taking a more serious tone. It was obvious that the girl had been through something, but he wouldn’t pry into the details.
“Mn,” Chigusa nodded. “I-I… only want to bask under the same light those other idols are in. That is all. I will not interfere in your activities in the Magic World.,” she spoke, a light only she could picture was before her eyes. It deluded her from all the problems and issues of her life, and instead guided her towards her dreams and aspirations.
“Then you should have no problem here. Pursue your dream, Chigusa. All of us have a past we have put behind us… Let us move forward together.” answered Hynek.
Chigusa was honestly surprised at the answer, but at the same time, she somehow knew that he’d say something cliched like that. “Mn,” she nodded again, that was all she could do to respond to it. This wasn’t even the starting point, and she’d now have a lot of work with, after having confirmed that Hynek was an upstanding man who seemed to be more or less saying the truth; she was sure that the rest was up to her, to follow the path she always wanted to.
Stepping out to the room in front of his office he scanned the room for the girl. In the center of the room, the girl was practicing her dance routine, completely oblivious to what was going on around her. Walking up behind her he lightly tapped her on the shoulder.
“A-Ah?! Yes?” The shy girl – startled – turned to face Hynek. “W-What… do you need?”
“Let’s get to know each other a little better,” said Hynek offering her a seat on the couch. “We are going to working closely. It is only fair that you know a few things about me, and I about you.” sitting on the couch, he patted the seat next to him, offering it to her.
Chigusa was confused. First they speak in Arabic, tells her to leave them be – so she went to practice her steps since she had nothing better to do – and now he wants to know her better? She wanted to outright ask why he hadn’t done that sooner and got it over with. Regardless, he was her boss now, and he was the main person she’d be able to fulfill her dreams.
“Ah, umm… okay,” Chigusa nodded, and sat as far as possible from Hynek on the couch. She was too shy to sit close to him, somehow she was reminded of him patting her, and it caused her cheeks to turn pink, very slightly. She couldn’t even face him in the eye anymore like this, so she simply looked down on the clean floor.
“Do I make you nervous?” asked Hynek looking at her curiously. “Perhaps we can start with me? What would you like to know? It might help you a little bit if you knew a bit about me.”
“Ah… sorry, I am just nervous before people sometimes,” Chigusa answered earnestly. “It often collides with what I want to do.”
At this point, there was a very slightly opening at the door on the back; Felix and Christie’s hawk-like gaze fell on the two from afar.
“...Um, I don’t know what to ask, but… you aren’t anyone ordinary, are you?” She asked with a very low voice, so low that Felix and Christie couldn’t even hear it.
“Ordinary wouldn’t be a word I would use to define myself to be sure.” answered Hynek. ”I am a businessman first and foremost, but as entertainment is my business, I also know how to have fun. I am a professional in that aspect.” Hynek chuckled thinking of all the good times he has had through his life. ”What would you say about yourself Chigusa? Are you ordinary? My gut tells me different.” asked Hynek.
“That’s what I thought, but that is only ordinary… Tamas-san?” She said, unsure how to address the man. “...Um, what do you mean?”
Hynek leaned in to where their faces were only a foot apart. His hand was on the arm of the couch next to her, and he had her trapped in the corner, Chigusa squirmed like a mouse caught on the trap at this. He knew this would probably be a bit much for her, but it would get his point across.
“You are a mage aren’t you?” asked Hynek.
“Too close!” The girl almost shouted, thrusting both hands forward; pushing Hynek away. “Jeez… y-you don’t have to come so close to ask that.” Chigusa sighed, as if very disappointed soon enough. “How did you know?”
Hynek chuckled at her reaction. “I have had met more than a few during my travels.” answered Hynek. “Like you guessed before. I am no one ordinary,” answered Hynek. Leaving the interpretation of what that meant to the girl’s imagination.
Chigusa only frowned in response before speaking up, “Like those two behind that door?” She said, taking a guess. “I am just an ex-member of Shrine. I want nothing to do with them anywhere… ” her hands joined over her thighs, and she turned straight and looked down.
“A clean slate, hm?” asked Hynek taking a more serious tone. It was obvious that the girl had been through something, but he wouldn’t pry into the details.
“Mn,” Chigusa nodded. “I-I… only want to bask under the same light those other idols are in. That is all. I will not interfere in your activities in the Magic World.,” she spoke, a light only she could picture was before her eyes. It deluded her from all the problems and issues of her life, and instead guided her towards her dreams and aspirations.
“Then you should have no problem here. Pursue your dream, Chigusa. All of us have a past we have put behind us… Let us move forward together.” answered Hynek.
Chigusa was honestly surprised at the answer, but at the same time, she somehow knew that he’d say something cliched like that. “Mn,” she nodded again, that was all she could do to respond to it. This wasn’t even the starting point, and she’d now have a lot of work with, after having confirmed that Hynek was an upstanding man who seemed to be more or less saying the truth; she was sure that the rest was up to her, to follow the path she always wanted to.
0
Cinia Pacifica
Ojou-sama Writer
Natsu was on her way to the office. A run-down cheap set of apartments that was remodelled to be an office was the agency she worked under. Not that it mattered, an idol’s agency wasn’t necessarily the measure for their popularity and fame, a company was but a support – a ledge – to the staircase to fame and success, regardless of the fact that they used their idols to earn money. There were many girls always wanting to be idols, but only few were recognized to hold the potential, so a smaller agency was still good enough for many girls, albeit they’d usually get into trouble with finding work, at first. A common tale among veteran idols for decades now.
Today, she was running late on her way to the office, and at the same time she was worrying about how she’d face her manager, after what had happened, she’d just crumble apart when she’d face him. She’d space out often and lose sight of her destination from time to time, even getting lost here and there, or taking the wrong turn across the road. It was a problematic day, and she wondered if it’d only get worse at work. She’d have to apologize over and over again to the staff members, which would be a poor impression. Wouldn’t that be a bother to her manager? Does that even matter anymore? ...It probably did matter.
She found herself walking with increasing speed; covering more ground with each steps as she wondered. There was no moving pavement here as the roads were already too thin, and nor were there many people around this side of the city. It was a calm neighborhood. The houses were still stylish, however.
Natsu found herself stopping from instinct alone, when a knife stabbed the road just an inch before her foot, and it didn’t seemed like a skit at all. As she looked around, there wasn’t anyone in sight… Regardless, she remained on alert. Was it some crazed stalker? Was it perhaps someone sent by the foreigner yesterday? Natsu looked back and forth in all directions to find the source of the attack, and called out “Who’s there!?” she tried to focus on possible hiding spots all around her, and stayed on her toes, in case some kind of strike would come again. Cold sweat ran down her cheeks. She was in a panic… would she be able to run away if there was someone after her? She had to tell herself to just run and think of nothing else.
Another knife slid by and it grazed her back sharply this time – ripping the cloth – if not for the protective functions of the clothes she wore beneath her casual attire; she’d be bleeding about now. The futuristic Japan had such expensive attires available for the higher class and important individuals, which would protect them with hi-tech shield that was weaved into the garments through engines meant to specifically manufacture such products. Natsu received one as a precaution to accidental dangers by her company.
It was thanks to her company that she was well.
There was a moment when Natsu was frozen from the shock. She thought she was dead when she was struck, but then began gasping in relief when she remembered her protective garments had saved her. There was no time to think of anything else, however. Natsu dashed forward as fast as she could, trying to run away from her assailant. She peeked back once to try to catch of glimpse of her attacker, but she still couldn’t find anybody, and thus, just kept her attention forward. She needed to get away, find anywhere with witnesses. Her attacker wouldn’t possibly make any attempts on her life in broad daylight, she thought.
She could see some black silhouettes skip about really fast, as if from the animated shows depicting ninjas crossing distances nimbly with ease. This made her wince, and run faster. Her thought was disproved when more daggers and blades came her way, stabbing at the ground relentlessly, almost. By the time she thought she outrun them – and the attacks stopped – a blade made a clear cut on her arm. Blood ran out and dripped on the ground.
“Ah!” Natsu yelped in pain and significantly slowed down as she grasped her arm, trying to slow the bleeding. She felt helpless again, and was panicking once more. She tripped over and was trembling on the ground as the figures moved closer. “H-help…” She whimpered softly once, then repeated in a more pronounced voice, “Somebody, help me!!”
Today, she was running late on her way to the office, and at the same time she was worrying about how she’d face her manager, after what had happened, she’d just crumble apart when she’d face him. She’d space out often and lose sight of her destination from time to time, even getting lost here and there, or taking the wrong turn across the road. It was a problematic day, and she wondered if it’d only get worse at work. She’d have to apologize over and over again to the staff members, which would be a poor impression. Wouldn’t that be a bother to her manager? Does that even matter anymore? ...It probably did matter.
She found herself walking with increasing speed; covering more ground with each steps as she wondered. There was no moving pavement here as the roads were already too thin, and nor were there many people around this side of the city. It was a calm neighborhood. The houses were still stylish, however.
Natsu found herself stopping from instinct alone, when a knife stabbed the road just an inch before her foot, and it didn’t seemed like a skit at all. As she looked around, there wasn’t anyone in sight… Regardless, she remained on alert. Was it some crazed stalker? Was it perhaps someone sent by the foreigner yesterday? Natsu looked back and forth in all directions to find the source of the attack, and called out “Who’s there!?” she tried to focus on possible hiding spots all around her, and stayed on her toes, in case some kind of strike would come again. Cold sweat ran down her cheeks. She was in a panic… would she be able to run away if there was someone after her? She had to tell herself to just run and think of nothing else.
Another knife slid by and it grazed her back sharply this time – ripping the cloth – if not for the protective functions of the clothes she wore beneath her casual attire; she’d be bleeding about now. The futuristic Japan had such expensive attires available for the higher class and important individuals, which would protect them with hi-tech shield that was weaved into the garments through engines meant to specifically manufacture such products. Natsu received one as a precaution to accidental dangers by her company.
It was thanks to her company that she was well.
There was a moment when Natsu was frozen from the shock. She thought she was dead when she was struck, but then began gasping in relief when she remembered her protective garments had saved her. There was no time to think of anything else, however. Natsu dashed forward as fast as she could, trying to run away from her assailant. She peeked back once to try to catch of glimpse of her attacker, but she still couldn’t find anybody, and thus, just kept her attention forward. She needed to get away, find anywhere with witnesses. Her attacker wouldn’t possibly make any attempts on her life in broad daylight, she thought.
She could see some black silhouettes skip about really fast, as if from the animated shows depicting ninjas crossing distances nimbly with ease. This made her wince, and run faster. Her thought was disproved when more daggers and blades came her way, stabbing at the ground relentlessly, almost. By the time she thought she outrun them – and the attacks stopped – a blade made a clear cut on her arm. Blood ran out and dripped on the ground.
“Ah!” Natsu yelped in pain and significantly slowed down as she grasped her arm, trying to slow the bleeding. She felt helpless again, and was panicking once more. She tripped over and was trembling on the ground as the figures moved closer. “H-help…” She whimpered softly once, then repeated in a more pronounced voice, “Somebody, help me!!”
0
Cinia Pacifica
Ojou-sama Writer
(BGM)
As if heeding the call of her words, something happened. †˜Something’ was all Natsu’s mind could think of as the phenomenon took place.
The world instantly darkened.
Blacker, blacker, and blacker.
Everything slowed down, she could see a drop of red blood from her arm slowing down as it made way for the floor – the pull of gravity waning with each passing moment – before it was stopped just above the pavement.
The world, from her view, stopped with a blade stuck mid-air just before her chest.
“W-w-what’s… happening…?” She stuttered at the odd situation. “A-am I dead…? What is this…?”
“Nay, my child, for I have descended to this realm – the world respected me; stopping to bow,” a voice she knew not spoke, an elegant yet a very odd style of speech was heard. When Natsu turned, she found a strange woman – with green eyes and hair, the latter being more pale – who hardly wore any garments – other than a set of… violet bikini? – and had archaic markings all around her body. Were they tattoo? At least she had something resembling a cape at the back, sliding down from her hair, but it was much too short to cover her entire body; not even enough to reach past the knees. It was akin to seeing a scantily clad dancer from the old ages.
“Who… are you? And, w-what’s going on, then?” Natsu asked while in utter disbelief.
“I am Sagittarius, I am rather joyous to have finally met you,” the woman introduced herself, her lips stretching to form a smile. “The world has stopped – you are now completely safe – but only for now,” she answered, coming closer and closer to her with each steps, Natsu felt a strange feeling welling up from the back of her right hand.
“Huh?” Natsu stared at her hand as the feeling grew stronger. It was neither painful nor pleasant, just strange. It appeared that a zodiac sign was forming. “W-wait, I thought I was a Gemini... What is this?” She asked the woman claiming to be Sagittarius.
“The mark of Sagittarius – in other words my insignia – the proof of your connection to me,” the woman answered as the purple mark was fully formed, revealing to be the symbol of Sagittarius. “Your birth born Zodiac sign is irrelevant, as it was a system humans made; not the spirits.”
“Is… that so…” Natsu murmured as she looked back down at her hand. “What are you, then? Are you a spirit?” She asked, looking back up at the mysterious woman.
“A wise guess. Yes, I am the spirit originating from the stars. Hence, the world knows of my significance,” she answered, shifting her eyes from the back of her right hand. “I am here to notify you of your state, and confirm your alignment,” she explained, then continued, “You are currently bound to me, as my host, and you are thus a Descendant of Time,” Sagittarius stated. “These petty… intrusions will not cost your life, that I shall assure.”
“Who’s chasing after me, anyways?” Natsu asked Sagittarius, remembering the grave peril she was just in a moment ago. “Why do they want to kill me…?”
“Wielders of mythical power incomprehensible to most – magus. O virgin of the future realm, your destiny is a path to fame and glory, but gory and narrow all the same. Those who desires your grace, powers, and talents would likely be attracted to you. Likewise, there are those who want to exterminate powers that would tip the balance.”
“It is up to you – o blessed and cursed virgin – how you walk this wretched path.”
“I’m not sure I understand… What is a †˜Descendant of Time’...? And why did you choose me? I just don’t get it…” The sheer amount of information, as well as the odd way it was delivered only confused Natsu. It was difficult for her to comprehend anything.
“I find you befitting, hence my decision; I chose you because of your… hm, radiance, I suppose,” she answered, giggling, apparently happy with her choice. It seemed as though the spirit enjoyed Natsu’s naivety.
“The Descendants are those chosen by beings such as myself,” she answered before caressing Natsu’s right hand, more specifically, the back of her hand; the zodiac mark.
“What kind of power do I gain from being your host, then, Sagittarius...-sama?” Natsu wasn’t entirely sure how to address this woman. “And why would a person want to kill me for it?”
“Your most basic strength is a reversal of time on a chosen object. Anything stronger are… well, suffice it to say that they are… rather lethal to the mundanes,” the spirit answered, she shrugged as if not really caring for the mundanes. Spirits had very limited interests, and their emotions were sparse, having too much time in comparison to humans – they had to choose their friends carefully, as they were already used to losing human companions far too quickly. “I shall elaborate more; my powers revolves around archery and projectiles. I may show you how they work myself… ”
“The False Prophet led the mankind to believe that the Descendants will bring the world to ruin. Some will respect your powers gained from me, others will want it gone.”
“And so – I must ask – would you choose to live in seclusion, or fight for your personal space in this world?” When the spirit asked this, she was fully solemn and looked Natsu’s eyes inquisitively.
Simply due to being an idol, Natsu couldn’t seclude herself. She enjoyed her job, singing and dancing for thousands of fans. Fellow idols in her company were fun to be with. And despite what had happened, she still loved her Producer, and wanted to be with him. The thought that she would be able to protect him, too, rekindled her drive. “I’ll do whatever it takes to protect my way of life. I can’t let the people around me get hurt because of me.” She replied to Sagittarius. “With that said… May I see your powers in action? I would like to see them for myself,” Natsu asked with a bit of a glint in her eyes. She wanted to know exactly how these powers could be used to defend herself and those near to her.
“I will warn that I am not so kind or reserved. You may not blame for the damage and destruction wrought,” the spirit answered, but seemed to have somewhat noted a resemblance between themselves, something a girl would know toward another when talking, “but my strongest ability would allow me to substitute my consciousness with that of yours. However – and if it were to take place – you’d be locked in the spiritual realm like I usually am, in the duration that I extend my abilities for display.”
“An out-of-body experience… Hm…” Natsu wasn’t entirely sure what exactly this swap entailed, but leaving her body to a celestial being actually seemed useful. Sagittarius probably wouldn’t have the same reserves as Natsu in terms of fighting. Natsu hasn’t ever even been in a fight.
“By the way, what is this †˜path’ you spoke of? †˜A path to fame and glory, but gory and narrow’ or something like that, right? Does this mean I’ll be attacked often…?” The thought of that leveled out her initial excitement of receiving the powers of a celestial being. She didn’t want her friends and loved ones to become involved with unfortunate occurrences like this.
The spirit gave a nod, confirming Natsu’s fears.
“With great power comes its weight, with great power comes responsibility, and with great power comes the shift of change – your destiny warps at the mercy of the Creator,” she answered, looking up towards the sky.
“Magus – like the ones who were molesting your flesh – would come your way eventually, especially after confirming your alignment to me. Hence, you must hide… this mark, from those who bears ill intent.”
“However, to live is to carve a path you may call your own. Decisions should be made based on your own thoughts. I shall only advise you – my fair maiden of the forest.”
“I see... “ Natsu nodded and looked at her hand. She would need to wear a glove or something from now on to hide it. For the time being, she could hide her hand in her pocket, and when she got to the production company, she could scour the costumes for a glove.
“So, what about those †˜magusa’... †˜magusu’... you spoke of…?” Natsu couldn’t say the word correctly. It was a term she may have heard before in a movie of some kind, but she never thought they’d actually exist. “Some might actually help me, right? Why would they do that if other people are after my life?” It’s odd to her that there’s two such extreme mindsets concerning those endowed with the power of a celestial being.
“Mnm… unfortunately, that is an answer for you to develop, for my knowledge of human societies are vastly limited, at the moment. Pray forgive me, dear maiden. All I know is… each people comes with their set of philosophy. However, they are also tender at heart… similarly like yourself,” she said, referring to the time Natsu’s heart was broken.
“Who was that False Prophet you mentioned before?”
“My, you sure have a lot to ask for someone who only got to know of the existence of a larger world,” the spirit giggled yet again. “...To answer: I wish I knew,” Sagittarius answered, looking down to the asphalt road with a look of despair, “he was a villain, that is all I know. I only named him False, for I pay no heed for his misguidance. You may choose to believe otherwise, however, I will decline the balance if such a case arise.”
“I wouldn’t follow someone who ordered to kill me! I’ve never wronged him… Why does he want the Descendants of Time dead…?” Natsu wondered, a bit flustered due to the attacks that she was nearly the victim of just moments ago. It seemed like such a random occurrence.
Natsu had one final question to Sagittarius: “Is a virgin the only person who can become a Descendant of Time…? If I were to find a boyfriend and do… those things… Will I no longer be your host…?” Since Sagittarius had said †˜virgin’ several times when first explaining things to Natsu in that very bizarre manner, did it imply that she had to remain one? Natsu didn’t plan to give her body to a man unless she truly loved and trusted him, and although there was one person she already had her sights set on, she didn’t have many perverse thoughts about him. In that regard, it was unlikely that she’d no longer be a virgin in the near future, but it was certainly something that may become a factor later.
“No, but… ugh, the want to give your virginity to a man… well, I would not stop you, but it is a very displeasing sight to bear. I would rather drink alcohol than allow a man to stain my maidenhood,” the spirit answered, grimacing. “I am aware of the feelings you harbor for a particular man. However, that thing holds no love for you, don’t you feel it… ?” She asked, placing a hand on Natsu’s chest. “Does it not hurt here?” She asked, bringing her face an inch away from Natsu’s, who looked intently back into her eyes, that’s when Natsu noticed that this woman’s eyes contained the mark of sagittarius, too.
“I… I’m happy enough that he’s around me, and guides me. It’s sad, but I don’t want to get in the way of his love…” Natsu was downcast when this topic came up again. She had a brighter mindset for it, but it was still painful thinking about the truth versus what she wanted for herself. “As long as he’s still willing to look at me, and help me whenever I need him, I’m fine with that…” She lied. Deep down, she still wanted him to love her back, for them to be together in a more romantic sense.
“It is for your own good – the sooner you get over him, the better – to not love at all. You will only be hurt, again and again. Men are too cruel.”
“I can’t do that… I’m too much in love with him…”
The spirit sighed, but she decided to let it go.
As if heeding the call of her words, something happened. †˜Something’ was all Natsu’s mind could think of as the phenomenon took place.
The world instantly darkened.
Blacker, blacker, and blacker.
Everything slowed down, she could see a drop of red blood from her arm slowing down as it made way for the floor – the pull of gravity waning with each passing moment – before it was stopped just above the pavement.
The world, from her view, stopped with a blade stuck mid-air just before her chest.
“W-w-what’s… happening…?” She stuttered at the odd situation. “A-am I dead…? What is this…?”
“Nay, my child, for I have descended to this realm – the world respected me; stopping to bow,” a voice she knew not spoke, an elegant yet a very odd style of speech was heard. When Natsu turned, she found a strange woman – with green eyes and hair, the latter being more pale – who hardly wore any garments – other than a set of… violet bikini? – and had archaic markings all around her body. Were they tattoo? At least she had something resembling a cape at the back, sliding down from her hair, but it was much too short to cover her entire body; not even enough to reach past the knees. It was akin to seeing a scantily clad dancer from the old ages.
“Who… are you? And, w-what’s going on, then?” Natsu asked while in utter disbelief.
“I am Sagittarius, I am rather joyous to have finally met you,” the woman introduced herself, her lips stretching to form a smile. “The world has stopped – you are now completely safe – but only for now,” she answered, coming closer and closer to her with each steps, Natsu felt a strange feeling welling up from the back of her right hand.
“Huh?” Natsu stared at her hand as the feeling grew stronger. It was neither painful nor pleasant, just strange. It appeared that a zodiac sign was forming. “W-wait, I thought I was a Gemini... What is this?” She asked the woman claiming to be Sagittarius.
“The mark of Sagittarius – in other words my insignia – the proof of your connection to me,” the woman answered as the purple mark was fully formed, revealing to be the symbol of Sagittarius. “Your birth born Zodiac sign is irrelevant, as it was a system humans made; not the spirits.”
“Is… that so…” Natsu murmured as she looked back down at her hand. “What are you, then? Are you a spirit?” She asked, looking back up at the mysterious woman.
“A wise guess. Yes, I am the spirit originating from the stars. Hence, the world knows of my significance,” she answered, shifting her eyes from the back of her right hand. “I am here to notify you of your state, and confirm your alignment,” she explained, then continued, “You are currently bound to me, as my host, and you are thus a Descendant of Time,” Sagittarius stated. “These petty… intrusions will not cost your life, that I shall assure.”
“Who’s chasing after me, anyways?” Natsu asked Sagittarius, remembering the grave peril she was just in a moment ago. “Why do they want to kill me…?”
“Wielders of mythical power incomprehensible to most – magus. O virgin of the future realm, your destiny is a path to fame and glory, but gory and narrow all the same. Those who desires your grace, powers, and talents would likely be attracted to you. Likewise, there are those who want to exterminate powers that would tip the balance.”
“It is up to you – o blessed and cursed virgin – how you walk this wretched path.”
“I’m not sure I understand… What is a †˜Descendant of Time’...? And why did you choose me? I just don’t get it…” The sheer amount of information, as well as the odd way it was delivered only confused Natsu. It was difficult for her to comprehend anything.
“I find you befitting, hence my decision; I chose you because of your… hm, radiance, I suppose,” she answered, giggling, apparently happy with her choice. It seemed as though the spirit enjoyed Natsu’s naivety.
“The Descendants are those chosen by beings such as myself,” she answered before caressing Natsu’s right hand, more specifically, the back of her hand; the zodiac mark.
“What kind of power do I gain from being your host, then, Sagittarius...-sama?” Natsu wasn’t entirely sure how to address this woman. “And why would a person want to kill me for it?”
“Your most basic strength is a reversal of time on a chosen object. Anything stronger are… well, suffice it to say that they are… rather lethal to the mundanes,” the spirit answered, she shrugged as if not really caring for the mundanes. Spirits had very limited interests, and their emotions were sparse, having too much time in comparison to humans – they had to choose their friends carefully, as they were already used to losing human companions far too quickly. “I shall elaborate more; my powers revolves around archery and projectiles. I may show you how they work myself… ”
“The False Prophet led the mankind to believe that the Descendants will bring the world to ruin. Some will respect your powers gained from me, others will want it gone.”
“And so – I must ask – would you choose to live in seclusion, or fight for your personal space in this world?” When the spirit asked this, she was fully solemn and looked Natsu’s eyes inquisitively.
Simply due to being an idol, Natsu couldn’t seclude herself. She enjoyed her job, singing and dancing for thousands of fans. Fellow idols in her company were fun to be with. And despite what had happened, she still loved her Producer, and wanted to be with him. The thought that she would be able to protect him, too, rekindled her drive. “I’ll do whatever it takes to protect my way of life. I can’t let the people around me get hurt because of me.” She replied to Sagittarius. “With that said… May I see your powers in action? I would like to see them for myself,” Natsu asked with a bit of a glint in her eyes. She wanted to know exactly how these powers could be used to defend herself and those near to her.
“I will warn that I am not so kind or reserved. You may not blame for the damage and destruction wrought,” the spirit answered, but seemed to have somewhat noted a resemblance between themselves, something a girl would know toward another when talking, “but my strongest ability would allow me to substitute my consciousness with that of yours. However – and if it were to take place – you’d be locked in the spiritual realm like I usually am, in the duration that I extend my abilities for display.”
“An out-of-body experience… Hm…” Natsu wasn’t entirely sure what exactly this swap entailed, but leaving her body to a celestial being actually seemed useful. Sagittarius probably wouldn’t have the same reserves as Natsu in terms of fighting. Natsu hasn’t ever even been in a fight.
“By the way, what is this †˜path’ you spoke of? †˜A path to fame and glory, but gory and narrow’ or something like that, right? Does this mean I’ll be attacked often…?” The thought of that leveled out her initial excitement of receiving the powers of a celestial being. She didn’t want her friends and loved ones to become involved with unfortunate occurrences like this.
The spirit gave a nod, confirming Natsu’s fears.
“With great power comes its weight, with great power comes responsibility, and with great power comes the shift of change – your destiny warps at the mercy of the Creator,” she answered, looking up towards the sky.
“Magus – like the ones who were molesting your flesh – would come your way eventually, especially after confirming your alignment to me. Hence, you must hide… this mark, from those who bears ill intent.”
“However, to live is to carve a path you may call your own. Decisions should be made based on your own thoughts. I shall only advise you – my fair maiden of the forest.”
“I see... “ Natsu nodded and looked at her hand. She would need to wear a glove or something from now on to hide it. For the time being, she could hide her hand in her pocket, and when she got to the production company, she could scour the costumes for a glove.
“So, what about those †˜magusa’... †˜magusu’... you spoke of…?” Natsu couldn’t say the word correctly. It was a term she may have heard before in a movie of some kind, but she never thought they’d actually exist. “Some might actually help me, right? Why would they do that if other people are after my life?” It’s odd to her that there’s two such extreme mindsets concerning those endowed with the power of a celestial being.
“Mnm… unfortunately, that is an answer for you to develop, for my knowledge of human societies are vastly limited, at the moment. Pray forgive me, dear maiden. All I know is… each people comes with their set of philosophy. However, they are also tender at heart… similarly like yourself,” she said, referring to the time Natsu’s heart was broken.
“Who was that False Prophet you mentioned before?”
“My, you sure have a lot to ask for someone who only got to know of the existence of a larger world,” the spirit giggled yet again. “...To answer: I wish I knew,” Sagittarius answered, looking down to the asphalt road with a look of despair, “he was a villain, that is all I know. I only named him False, for I pay no heed for his misguidance. You may choose to believe otherwise, however, I will decline the balance if such a case arise.”
“I wouldn’t follow someone who ordered to kill me! I’ve never wronged him… Why does he want the Descendants of Time dead…?” Natsu wondered, a bit flustered due to the attacks that she was nearly the victim of just moments ago. It seemed like such a random occurrence.
Natsu had one final question to Sagittarius: “Is a virgin the only person who can become a Descendant of Time…? If I were to find a boyfriend and do… those things… Will I no longer be your host…?” Since Sagittarius had said †˜virgin’ several times when first explaining things to Natsu in that very bizarre manner, did it imply that she had to remain one? Natsu didn’t plan to give her body to a man unless she truly loved and trusted him, and although there was one person she already had her sights set on, she didn’t have many perverse thoughts about him. In that regard, it was unlikely that she’d no longer be a virgin in the near future, but it was certainly something that may become a factor later.
“No, but… ugh, the want to give your virginity to a man… well, I would not stop you, but it is a very displeasing sight to bear. I would rather drink alcohol than allow a man to stain my maidenhood,” the spirit answered, grimacing. “I am aware of the feelings you harbor for a particular man. However, that thing holds no love for you, don’t you feel it… ?” She asked, placing a hand on Natsu’s chest. “Does it not hurt here?” She asked, bringing her face an inch away from Natsu’s, who looked intently back into her eyes, that’s when Natsu noticed that this woman’s eyes contained the mark of sagittarius, too.
“I… I’m happy enough that he’s around me, and guides me. It’s sad, but I don’t want to get in the way of his love…” Natsu was downcast when this topic came up again. She had a brighter mindset for it, but it was still painful thinking about the truth versus what she wanted for herself. “As long as he’s still willing to look at me, and help me whenever I need him, I’m fine with that…” She lied. Deep down, she still wanted him to love her back, for them to be together in a more romantic sense.
“It is for your own good – the sooner you get over him, the better – to not love at all. You will only be hurt, again and again. Men are too cruel.”
“I can’t do that… I’m too much in love with him…”
The spirit sighed, but she decided to let it go.
0
Cinia Pacifica
Ojou-sama Writer
(BGM)
“Unseal”
The world’s color begun to return. Sound, scent, air, the movement of the blade that was stuck just before the idol’s body – were all regaining their functions – started to close in on her once again.
The mages sent by their Queen were spread across the area. They observed from a distance, and armed themselves – keeping their blades and guns at bay, ready to launch their next pattern of attacks on their target – seeing if the girl would be impaled by their knife. The knife was especially made to penetrate the defenses of the Protective Suit that the futuristic Japan invented, or so they believed. The suit was weaved with incomprehensible materials that provided an invisible shield to its wearers. However, it was very pricey.
A bright light emanated from their target – the girl – before they knew it, they found themselves covering their eyes instinctively. A great wave of power was given birth to at the very moment, and the wills of the assailants waned at its wake.
“A-A… great spiritual energy is radiating from her… She is no doubt a Time Warrior, sir!”
“God be damned… !! For the sake of our futures and that of our families, men, we take her out!!”
Is this why they attack? Did another Descendant of Time do something terrible? Natsu tried to say, but was not vocalized due to being outside of her own body. Sagittarius had taken control of her to defend her. The False Prophet was said to be deceptive, though, at least, that was what Sagittarius had told Natsu, and she had no reason not to believe her. Perhaps it’s a misunderstanding…?
The magicians roared as they jumped up and landed down before the idol, before Natsu. Facing the light of the Descendant, they took their positions. The blade that was stuck mid-air before Natsu was broken to mere particles and blown into the air, the result was the same when they shot bullets from their guns.
When the light subsided, what was left was a veteran warrior under a new guise. The purple insignia now etched at the back of Natsu’s hand made the men confirm it even with their eyes now.
“T-That’s… ”
“The Sagittarius… ”
They didn’t need to know if her irises had the same marks too – as they were glowing with a purple light too bright to see through – this was proof enough when it shone the way it did.
A frown depicting sheer rage decorated Natsu’s face. One would say that it could ruin her face as an idol, but the spirit who descended from the spiritual realm existing within Natsu’s soul did not care about such a thing. The spirit’s intentions were devoid of mercy, and she could think nothing but to wipe her targets out and be on her way back to her place.
“Kill her!” Was the clear command given to end Natsu’s life, but her spirit wouldn’t have any of that.
Kya! When all the attackers made their move, Natsu had to look away. Despite her trust in Sagittarius, it seemed impossible that her body would escape this assault unscathed.
A sound – they were not familiar with – occurred after they shot all manner of blades and shot bullets… and the next moment; some lost their eyes, some lost their legs, then someone lost his entire torso, and another lost his arm. The moment after that, solid asphalts were ripped apart and concretes shattered; letting debris obscure the surroundings.
It was devastating.
The purple projectiles that the spirit shot melted away the projectiles – of the assailants – away as if going through thin ice, and that wasn’t a feat so easily possible, in such a short period of time, even for magic.
When the smoke cleared, Natsu’s figure came in sight, a purple glowing bow was attached to her right arm. It was conjured entirely out of spiritual energy, it seemed. The man who lost his arm watched Natsu in awe and fear – that contorted his expression – before his tears welled up and ran down his face. The spirit pulled her arm up; the bow leveled to face his very forehead. The bow itself was attached with a band made out of glowing spiritual energy, reminiscent of a crossbow, but it was much larger, and seemed to be a recurve bow.
Sagittarius manipulated Natsu’s body with ease, closing her middle finger – an arrow made of purple light formed under the bow – before straightening said finger – making the arrow before and burn through the man’s head – killing him.
However, that wasn’t the end of it. Sagittarius went on to face different directions, doing the same with her other fingers now; releasing arrows in all manner of directions, making a wreckage of the neighborhood around her.
The damage was very much significant from Natsu’s perspective, who was watching the destruction unfold from the spirit realm where her spirit usually lied. She, herself, was speechless. It was probably a necessary evil, killing her attackers so that they’d be unable to try again, but it was nonetheless a gruesome sight that made her sick to her stomach.
“This is the price of disrespect towards a spirit,” Sagittarius proclaimed – her voice was warped; a product of the mixture Natsu’s voice with that of her own – but her enemies were far from done.
They hopped about elusively, making their attacks. Magicians had their pride and strength that didn’t entirely shatter their confidence.
Flames and water made way, but Sagittarius knew better, nimbly letting them pass beside her. Then came wind, followed by stones. Unfortunately for Natsu, her spirit didn’t feel so much danger from the incoming attacks, and her skin were cut from the sharp winds and then hit hard with the solid rocks.
It seemed that the spirit hardly cared about the pain, she simply looked up with her eyes alight, and found the casting magicians atop a building. Before she could make a move against them, she felt something hard yet again, then looked up.
It was raining rocks! Tiny, small, pallets rained down from the sky. This was only possible because a rain were moments away from starting, so the magicians waited to use the spell.
It wasn’t over there. No, the magicians were only just getting started. They were fighting a Time Warrior, a being possessing numerous power beyond imagination, so they’d have to utilize all they had under their sleeves, therefore they’d use every tricks they knew.
Please be careful! Sagitarrius’ disregard for her own safety worried Natsu, since she wouldn’t know how much of that pain she’d need to endure later, and besides, she didn’t want any injuries to hinder any of her tasks as an idol.
Sagittarius pulled her bow up, but the shot was misfired and the arrow landed over the long and tall building close-by instead of the magicians standing atop a different structure. When she looked down at her belly, there was a gaping wound. Fresh – deep crimson – flushed out profusely. Natsu’s arm was instinctively manipulated to grasp at the injury as she cringed. The next moment; she turned and fired several shots, a figure – no longer identifiable by any one, most likely – fell down with steam escaping from the round-holes formed all over him, including his face.
“Don’t worry, my fair maiden, for you are immortal the moment your soul joined with me,” Sagittarius said, she knew that Natsu was watching from inside the body, and offered words of consolation. Her voice didn’t gasp or didn’t even seemed to be affected by the pain in any way, even though she should have been feeling it.
However – and again – this was far from over; large bulges of ice were launched and Sagittarius was far too relaxed even with a gaping wound on her body, which might’ve been the reason why Natsu’s left arm was impaled. They were likely made from the swimming pool somewhere close – which was proven true when Sagittarius faced a magician who stood far away from atop a… hotel? The spirit actually recognized it as a love hotel – which she sparsely learned about from observing Natsu’s life – and shoot arrows towards the building that was one of the centre encouraging lewd, lewd activities that she so despised, and didn’t take much time to transform it into ruins. This was because she didn’t shot just one, but more than ten, after five arrows would be shot; Sagittarius would have Natsu’s right fist – equipped with the supernaturally produced bow – clench, which would cause five arrows to be conjured, then it was the old business of flexing the appropriate fingers corresponding to the arrows to launch them forth.
The power itself followed a very simple mechanism, and it was exceedingly effective. Perhaps much more than required. With the falling stones still active, however, she was starting to feel more than just irritated.
One must note that Sagittarius was arrogant enough to stay in the exact same spot Natsu was in when the time was resumed; not a single step was taken. She only fired shots, and that would be her bane. This notion was proven when hands made out of asphalt broke out of the street, and caught her legs. To make it worse, fangs made of white marble sprung up from the ground – pierced Natsu’s body mercilessly as grotesque flesh noises murmured from within her; spilling more and more deep red blood – trapping her even further over the road.
Natsu couldn’t bear to watch much more. Even if she was now immortal, even if she would heal rapidly, it was a traumatizing sight, especially since it was her own body being mutilated.
Even then, the spirit looked calmly down at herself.
“Mn, this is rather inconvenient,” was the calm spirit’s only impression of the careful utilization of the magecraft applied against her.
Before long, fog swept in and shrouded the area; covering the wreckages, buildings, roads, and all the bloody corpses, apparently blinding the spirit in the process. They assumed that the spirit would probably break out of the fickle they put her through.
Their prosumption was proven right.
“Heh!” The spirit exerted her strength; making her power flow throughout Natsu’s body; it gained strength absolutely unnatural for a sixteen-year-old girl to possess. The marbles begun to crack and break, albeit her body was still skewered. The spirit took her time pulling them out, one by one. The hands from the ground were beamed through her bow, their lives breathed via magic ended momentarily.
All these didn’t seem too painful – unlike what Natsu would’ve thought by now – but it was indeed distracting to her. Hence, Sagittarius closed her eyes, praying, and performing a mystical dance despite the tiny rocks still hurling at her, and the mist and debris still blinding her; any surprise attack could come at any time. She still didn’t move away from her location, even now. Her hands swayed slowly yet elegant, and her legs stretched to their limits, almost making her seem as graceful as a swan. A picturesque sight if not for the surroundings completely grey with mist, and her injuries coating her figure mostly red. Some were likely crying for help in those demolished walls of the buildings, hardly able to see through anything.Those people were suffering in more ways than one, with tiny falling rocks torturing them every moment; Sagittarius weren’t the only one hurting people left and right, in fact, she only pursued her targets that tried to take the life of her host with her aims – except for the case of the love hotel – regardless of how destructive they were.
The dance ended.
“I forbid your foul sorcery, and your right to lay claim to the mana of the Realms. You shall all suffer my wrath,” the spirit declared.
“Behold, the Great Seal of Tlalocan.”
The fog begun to dissipate. Slowly, but steady, the rocks stopped falling from the sky, too. Strange, one would think, especially a magician.
The buildings of the city were starting to reform from her sight, as so did the wreckages. People’s voices and the ringings of devices sung a chorus across the area, but all that didn’t matter to the participants of the battlefield, as the magicians showed up.
Sagittarius found herself surrounded, it seemed like the mages were preparing for one big attack, but now seemed dumbfounded. The spirit only gazed at her opponents. There were far too many left despite all the people she killed.
“What in Lord’s name happened?!”
“Did it just failed?”
“The spiritual energy is adrift, but our magic is…?”
“Tch, recast, recast! Hurry!” The order was given, and the mages took stance and begun making exaggerated gestures into the vacant air, yet nothing happened… when they took notice of the next coming attack; it was too late. For the first time; Sagittarius took an action that involved the usage of Natsu’s legs. She moved so fast that she vanished in thin air – leaving only an afterimage – appearing before the one who shouted the order. A palm rested gently over his chest, he almost thought that she caressed it, but then saw Natsu’s figure leaving him… getting slower and slower, and the trip ended with a bang when his head crushed through a random wall.
Sagittarius spun one-eighty-degrees to find a man armed with a knife just behind her, and thrust her fist to his face; sending him away on a journey across the wreckage of the area, and it didn’t stop there; the spirit took the assailants out with ease. It was mysterious how she could move like this despite her injuries. Each bodies that dropped – apparently now dead, or perhaps simply unconscious – turned to green grass before roots popped out, and trees grew; getting larger and larger and almost becoming a small forest. It was a miraculous moment.
The last of the members of the invaders, however, managed to live by tossing an object towards the ground; making fog gush out rapidly. Sagittarius tilted her head, confused; not understanding what it was, but it could not have been magic since her power dispelled them.
“Cowards, at least end what you start,” the spirit commented, now facing a place deserted by the mages, leaving behind all those wounded after having incited the spirit’s rage and ire.
“With this, I am done. I hope that was educational for future use, o chosen virgin. Bear my words well, learning to control spiritual energy is a task not easy, and requires focus and patience. Use them however you wish. I would advise that you search for Atalanta’s Bow – a weapon now known to be mythical, but it shall prove to be useful to you.”
Natsu could do nothing but nod, even if Sagittarius could not see her do it.
“Seal.”
“Unseal”
The world’s color begun to return. Sound, scent, air, the movement of the blade that was stuck just before the idol’s body – were all regaining their functions – started to close in on her once again.
The mages sent by their Queen were spread across the area. They observed from a distance, and armed themselves – keeping their blades and guns at bay, ready to launch their next pattern of attacks on their target – seeing if the girl would be impaled by their knife. The knife was especially made to penetrate the defenses of the Protective Suit that the futuristic Japan invented, or so they believed. The suit was weaved with incomprehensible materials that provided an invisible shield to its wearers. However, it was very pricey.
A bright light emanated from their target – the girl – before they knew it, they found themselves covering their eyes instinctively. A great wave of power was given birth to at the very moment, and the wills of the assailants waned at its wake.
“A-A… great spiritual energy is radiating from her… She is no doubt a Time Warrior, sir!”
“God be damned… !! For the sake of our futures and that of our families, men, we take her out!!”
Is this why they attack? Did another Descendant of Time do something terrible? Natsu tried to say, but was not vocalized due to being outside of her own body. Sagittarius had taken control of her to defend her. The False Prophet was said to be deceptive, though, at least, that was what Sagittarius had told Natsu, and she had no reason not to believe her. Perhaps it’s a misunderstanding…?
The magicians roared as they jumped up and landed down before the idol, before Natsu. Facing the light of the Descendant, they took their positions. The blade that was stuck mid-air before Natsu was broken to mere particles and blown into the air, the result was the same when they shot bullets from their guns.
When the light subsided, what was left was a veteran warrior under a new guise. The purple insignia now etched at the back of Natsu’s hand made the men confirm it even with their eyes now.
“T-That’s… ”
“The Sagittarius… ”
They didn’t need to know if her irises had the same marks too – as they were glowing with a purple light too bright to see through – this was proof enough when it shone the way it did.
A frown depicting sheer rage decorated Natsu’s face. One would say that it could ruin her face as an idol, but the spirit who descended from the spiritual realm existing within Natsu’s soul did not care about such a thing. The spirit’s intentions were devoid of mercy, and she could think nothing but to wipe her targets out and be on her way back to her place.
“Kill her!” Was the clear command given to end Natsu’s life, but her spirit wouldn’t have any of that.
Kya! When all the attackers made their move, Natsu had to look away. Despite her trust in Sagittarius, it seemed impossible that her body would escape this assault unscathed.
A sound – they were not familiar with – occurred after they shot all manner of blades and shot bullets… and the next moment; some lost their eyes, some lost their legs, then someone lost his entire torso, and another lost his arm. The moment after that, solid asphalts were ripped apart and concretes shattered; letting debris obscure the surroundings.
It was devastating.
The purple projectiles that the spirit shot melted away the projectiles – of the assailants – away as if going through thin ice, and that wasn’t a feat so easily possible, in such a short period of time, even for magic.
When the smoke cleared, Natsu’s figure came in sight, a purple glowing bow was attached to her right arm. It was conjured entirely out of spiritual energy, it seemed. The man who lost his arm watched Natsu in awe and fear – that contorted his expression – before his tears welled up and ran down his face. The spirit pulled her arm up; the bow leveled to face his very forehead. The bow itself was attached with a band made out of glowing spiritual energy, reminiscent of a crossbow, but it was much larger, and seemed to be a recurve bow.
Sagittarius manipulated Natsu’s body with ease, closing her middle finger – an arrow made of purple light formed under the bow – before straightening said finger – making the arrow before and burn through the man’s head – killing him.
However, that wasn’t the end of it. Sagittarius went on to face different directions, doing the same with her other fingers now; releasing arrows in all manner of directions, making a wreckage of the neighborhood around her.
The damage was very much significant from Natsu’s perspective, who was watching the destruction unfold from the spirit realm where her spirit usually lied. She, herself, was speechless. It was probably a necessary evil, killing her attackers so that they’d be unable to try again, but it was nonetheless a gruesome sight that made her sick to her stomach.
“This is the price of disrespect towards a spirit,” Sagittarius proclaimed – her voice was warped; a product of the mixture Natsu’s voice with that of her own – but her enemies were far from done.
They hopped about elusively, making their attacks. Magicians had their pride and strength that didn’t entirely shatter their confidence.
Flames and water made way, but Sagittarius knew better, nimbly letting them pass beside her. Then came wind, followed by stones. Unfortunately for Natsu, her spirit didn’t feel so much danger from the incoming attacks, and her skin were cut from the sharp winds and then hit hard with the solid rocks.
It seemed that the spirit hardly cared about the pain, she simply looked up with her eyes alight, and found the casting magicians atop a building. Before she could make a move against them, she felt something hard yet again, then looked up.
It was raining rocks! Tiny, small, pallets rained down from the sky. This was only possible because a rain were moments away from starting, so the magicians waited to use the spell.
It wasn’t over there. No, the magicians were only just getting started. They were fighting a Time Warrior, a being possessing numerous power beyond imagination, so they’d have to utilize all they had under their sleeves, therefore they’d use every tricks they knew.
Please be careful! Sagitarrius’ disregard for her own safety worried Natsu, since she wouldn’t know how much of that pain she’d need to endure later, and besides, she didn’t want any injuries to hinder any of her tasks as an idol.
Sagittarius pulled her bow up, but the shot was misfired and the arrow landed over the long and tall building close-by instead of the magicians standing atop a different structure. When she looked down at her belly, there was a gaping wound. Fresh – deep crimson – flushed out profusely. Natsu’s arm was instinctively manipulated to grasp at the injury as she cringed. The next moment; she turned and fired several shots, a figure – no longer identifiable by any one, most likely – fell down with steam escaping from the round-holes formed all over him, including his face.
“Don’t worry, my fair maiden, for you are immortal the moment your soul joined with me,” Sagittarius said, she knew that Natsu was watching from inside the body, and offered words of consolation. Her voice didn’t gasp or didn’t even seemed to be affected by the pain in any way, even though she should have been feeling it.
However – and again – this was far from over; large bulges of ice were launched and Sagittarius was far too relaxed even with a gaping wound on her body, which might’ve been the reason why Natsu’s left arm was impaled. They were likely made from the swimming pool somewhere close – which was proven true when Sagittarius faced a magician who stood far away from atop a… hotel? The spirit actually recognized it as a love hotel – which she sparsely learned about from observing Natsu’s life – and shoot arrows towards the building that was one of the centre encouraging lewd, lewd activities that she so despised, and didn’t take much time to transform it into ruins. This was because she didn’t shot just one, but more than ten, after five arrows would be shot; Sagittarius would have Natsu’s right fist – equipped with the supernaturally produced bow – clench, which would cause five arrows to be conjured, then it was the old business of flexing the appropriate fingers corresponding to the arrows to launch them forth.
The power itself followed a very simple mechanism, and it was exceedingly effective. Perhaps much more than required. With the falling stones still active, however, she was starting to feel more than just irritated.
One must note that Sagittarius was arrogant enough to stay in the exact same spot Natsu was in when the time was resumed; not a single step was taken. She only fired shots, and that would be her bane. This notion was proven when hands made out of asphalt broke out of the street, and caught her legs. To make it worse, fangs made of white marble sprung up from the ground – pierced Natsu’s body mercilessly as grotesque flesh noises murmured from within her; spilling more and more deep red blood – trapping her even further over the road.
Natsu couldn’t bear to watch much more. Even if she was now immortal, even if she would heal rapidly, it was a traumatizing sight, especially since it was her own body being mutilated.
Even then, the spirit looked calmly down at herself.
“Mn, this is rather inconvenient,” was the calm spirit’s only impression of the careful utilization of the magecraft applied against her.
Before long, fog swept in and shrouded the area; covering the wreckages, buildings, roads, and all the bloody corpses, apparently blinding the spirit in the process. They assumed that the spirit would probably break out of the fickle they put her through.
Their prosumption was proven right.
“Heh!” The spirit exerted her strength; making her power flow throughout Natsu’s body; it gained strength absolutely unnatural for a sixteen-year-old girl to possess. The marbles begun to crack and break, albeit her body was still skewered. The spirit took her time pulling them out, one by one. The hands from the ground were beamed through her bow, their lives breathed via magic ended momentarily.
All these didn’t seem too painful – unlike what Natsu would’ve thought by now – but it was indeed distracting to her. Hence, Sagittarius closed her eyes, praying, and performing a mystical dance despite the tiny rocks still hurling at her, and the mist and debris still blinding her; any surprise attack could come at any time. She still didn’t move away from her location, even now. Her hands swayed slowly yet elegant, and her legs stretched to their limits, almost making her seem as graceful as a swan. A picturesque sight if not for the surroundings completely grey with mist, and her injuries coating her figure mostly red. Some were likely crying for help in those demolished walls of the buildings, hardly able to see through anything.Those people were suffering in more ways than one, with tiny falling rocks torturing them every moment; Sagittarius weren’t the only one hurting people left and right, in fact, she only pursued her targets that tried to take the life of her host with her aims – except for the case of the love hotel – regardless of how destructive they were.
The dance ended.
“I forbid your foul sorcery, and your right to lay claim to the mana of the Realms. You shall all suffer my wrath,” the spirit declared.
“Behold, the Great Seal of Tlalocan.”
The fog begun to dissipate. Slowly, but steady, the rocks stopped falling from the sky, too. Strange, one would think, especially a magician.
The buildings of the city were starting to reform from her sight, as so did the wreckages. People’s voices and the ringings of devices sung a chorus across the area, but all that didn’t matter to the participants of the battlefield, as the magicians showed up.
Sagittarius found herself surrounded, it seemed like the mages were preparing for one big attack, but now seemed dumbfounded. The spirit only gazed at her opponents. There were far too many left despite all the people she killed.
“What in Lord’s name happened?!”
“Did it just failed?”
“The spiritual energy is adrift, but our magic is…?”
“Tch, recast, recast! Hurry!” The order was given, and the mages took stance and begun making exaggerated gestures into the vacant air, yet nothing happened… when they took notice of the next coming attack; it was too late. For the first time; Sagittarius took an action that involved the usage of Natsu’s legs. She moved so fast that she vanished in thin air – leaving only an afterimage – appearing before the one who shouted the order. A palm rested gently over his chest, he almost thought that she caressed it, but then saw Natsu’s figure leaving him… getting slower and slower, and the trip ended with a bang when his head crushed through a random wall.
Sagittarius spun one-eighty-degrees to find a man armed with a knife just behind her, and thrust her fist to his face; sending him away on a journey across the wreckage of the area, and it didn’t stop there; the spirit took the assailants out with ease. It was mysterious how she could move like this despite her injuries. Each bodies that dropped – apparently now dead, or perhaps simply unconscious – turned to green grass before roots popped out, and trees grew; getting larger and larger and almost becoming a small forest. It was a miraculous moment.
The last of the members of the invaders, however, managed to live by tossing an object towards the ground; making fog gush out rapidly. Sagittarius tilted her head, confused; not understanding what it was, but it could not have been magic since her power dispelled them.
“Cowards, at least end what you start,” the spirit commented, now facing a place deserted by the mages, leaving behind all those wounded after having incited the spirit’s rage and ire.
“With this, I am done. I hope that was educational for future use, o chosen virgin. Bear my words well, learning to control spiritual energy is a task not easy, and requires focus and patience. Use them however you wish. I would advise that you search for Atalanta’s Bow – a weapon now known to be mythical, but it shall prove to be useful to you.”
Natsu could do nothing but nod, even if Sagittarius could not see her do it.
“Seal.”
0
Cinia Pacifica
Ojou-sama Writer
(BGM)
Pieces of steel clashed with repetitive clangs – resounding across the icy road and mountains – as the two fought for victory. As they exchanged blows, they hurt themselves further. While the large blade that Lily held did considerable damage; Kazimir was far from done, as he gave her more wounds dragging her down, too.
After another loud clang, the two backed away – taking distance from each other – glaring with killer’s intent.
“...Strong,” Lily admitted. She hadn’t faced someone so strong in a while. Having trained to be a knight of the church for so many years, she was expecting to face a strong enemy eventually, but this was a little too big for her plate alone.
Kazimir let out a small chuckle, he wasn’t expecting much spirit from her. Although she was fairly battered, she could still stand and give a few good swings. Made Kazimir wonder what kind of training she must’ve gone through to reach her level. He quickly dismissed the thought, it didn’t matter for him. His main concern was getting the convoy up and running, this girl would just be another hindrance behind him soon.
Lily leapt backwards and ran for her dear life. Considering the wounds, she’d have to do something about them. The situation wasn’t going to get better if she’d simply keep fighting the boss without any protectives. She realized that the spell casted by Svetlana was likely still active, just staying in one place. So, she decided to go for it, but she wouldn’t reach it just yet.
“Tch,” Kaz scowled as the girl began to flee from him. “Go ahead and run, it’s the only thing you can do in this situation.” He muttered to himself as he looked back to the firefight between his men and the sniper. Looking at the state of his men, he would have to deal with her soon enough. But if there was something Kaz had learnt in the pass was not to let thorns come back to bite you. Turning back to the departing knight, he cracked a smirk before dropping his sledge.
More bullets grazed her body, several hit her shoulder and waist. It started to annoy her. “Tch, U.R.W, Assault Mode.” she whispered to her rifle. Half of the sniper rifle then flipped down to the lower part of it. A smaller barrel popped out of the separated upper part. She then shoot three shots at the grunt she hit before, and it hit the shoulder, neck, and forehead of the grunt, killing him instantly. Good, the sword girl jumped back. I need to kill this other guy first then focus on the giant.
Bringing his hand down to the snow, Kazimir focused his spirit into his arm and slowly the snow began to converge over it. His eyes giving a faint brown glow, revealing a certain mark inscribed over his irises. The white gauntlet continued to grow in size and density as the ground around him was picked clean, leaving nothing but the solid tarmac of the road. Standing back up, Kazimir beholded a gigantic extension of snow attached to his left hand, suffice it to say even he would have trouble hefting it around.
With the young knight still in his sights, he brought his new-forged weapon up, taking aim as she continued to run in plain view. With a smirk, Kazimir unleashed a torrent of ice projectiles, flying through the girl as she was a feet from her salvation. It was the finishing blow, between her wounds and the chilling cold, she just couldn’t take it any more and collapsed on the freezing snow. A smirk was still laden on Kazimir’s face but there was still one more to deal with.
Just when she pulled the trigger, the bullet traveled way off her intended target. Weiss tried to pull it again, it didn't respond. Too much snow in it huh? I guess I'll just melee the remaining grunt and kill the giant quickly. She thought as she put the rifle on her back and pulled out the combat knife on her leg. She then saw the sword girl had fallen. “No, not now. Must focus on current objective.”
Seeing that the sniper had lost her rifle, Kazimir’s apparent smirk grew even more. Should’ve gotten a Kalashnikov. He remarked before raising his snow gauntlet up once more, he unleashed a flurry of ice nails in the midst of his men’s fire.
Both ice and bullets hit her body as she charged in. She held her knife tight as she stabbed the grunt on his chest and killed him instantly. She gazed at the tall man as she pulled her knife out of the body.
With their sights locked at each other, the world begun to lose color. Slowly, it turned darker, yet the two could perfectly see each other. After all, the snow was white despite the world turning black and white. The blizzard was rendered inactive for the rest of the battle as time itself stopped.
Kazimir returned the leer with his own before making a dash for the woman. Time had stopped, but he didn’t notice it due to the heat of the moment. Closing the distance, he readied his frozen club and knocked the sniper back with a hard swing. To his surprise she recovered faster than he had expected. “Tch, you’re a tough one aren’t you.” He commented as he braced for her attack.
“Thanks! You’re not half bad yourself.” She complimented as she dashed to the giant. She then punched his thigh, followed with a heel kick to his stomach. The heel then blasted compressed air. It gave an explosive-like damage to him; pushing him back. She grinned at him and revealed her red left eye and azure right eye, before the right eye turned silver; the Cancer zodiac sign was clearly visible on her right eye.
“So you’re-” Kazimir paused as he took a knee, winded slightly by the blow. He looked around to note that the world around them had indeed stopped. Realising the intensity, he turned to his left arm where his gauntlet of snow was crumbling, returning back to the earth where it belonged. He scowled and turned back to the apparent Time Warrior, revealing also his own zodiac sign residing in his eyes. It was the mark of Taurus that glowed a faint light brown before fading away at the deactivation of his ability.
“Tch, to think I’d be facing one of you here and now.” He grumbled to himself as he brought himself up with his sledge. Once more he stood firm, the pain from the previous blow subsiding. Caught in their little reprieve Kazimir took notice of his opponent, rather all of the electronics sticking out of her. “. . . Are you, by chance, a cyborg?” He asked with a wary expression.
Surprised as she saw him stood up with a Taurus sign on his eye, she observed every part of his body and thought, No wonder he’s a giant. Weiss shook her head and focused on him. “Yes I am.” She answered his question with a flat expression and continued, “and you’re one of the chosen too. I did not expect that.” She then prepared herself to lunge at him.
Seeing her drop into a stance Kazimir took the initiative, breaking into a dash as he brought his sledge up high. Jumping over and bringing the hammer down on the woman, a wave of snow and gravel rippling from the impact. As the sleet cleared Kazimir clicked his tongue in disappointment as he saw that he had missed his mark.
Weiss slid to the side as the wave of snow and gravel tried to reach her, she then lunged to the side of him and barely slashed his left thigh using her dagger followed with a smash using the hilt on his side. She then back-flipped away, and kept her distance away from him.
Kazimir let out a growl, he was getting frustrated. Coming about and breaking into a full charge at Weiss, he readied his sledge once more. As he was coming straight at her, he stamped his front foot firm into the ground and with a somewhat clumsy spin knocked her back with his hammer. Seeing his attack had landed, he brought his sledge into the ground again bringing his swing to a halt.
Weiss quickly rose up after the blow. Without any delay she dashed in at him and kicked his inner thigh and moved up to his torso. She punched his torso three times before she leaped back with a kick on his torso to a farther location between them.
Letting out a grunt, Kazimir recovered his breath as he brought himself back up. Once again, he brought his sledge back, ready to swing. Unlike before however, he did not charge Weiss. Swinging horizontally, he brought the sledge round and around until it created enough force from spinning. Timing it, he released his grip from the hammer, letting it fly off in its trajectory.
Bringing a foot down to stop his turning, he onwards with disappointment as he saw his sledge had missed it’s mark, it’s handle now standing erect between the two warriors.
A weapon throw? Seriously? Weiss thought as she dashed past the sledgehammer that was thrown by the giant. She then did a jump kick on him that made him fell down to the snowy ground. She then stepped on his chest and pushed her heel down, activated her explosive blast on the grounded giant. She looked down menacingly at him after the smoke subdued with her silver colored Cancer Zodiac sign on her crimson red eye. She quickly back-flipped away from him yet again.
Kazimir dashed towards his weapon, he’d need to retrieve it to continue fighting. Picking it up, he found Weiss inches before him.
The two danced across the grey snow. Streams of steam and powerful waves were thrusted out by Weiss as she launched a flurry of kicks and punches, while Kazimir blocked most of her assault with sheer endurance and his well-positioned sledge.
The two couldn’t get anywhere.
They were more or less equal from how things stood so far. Kazimir couldn’t see this exchange of blows coming to an end, even. Before he knew it; they were locked in a contest of strength, with Weiss pushing at him with a knife that collided with the long hilt of his hammer; producing bright sparks, possibly the only color that formed in this timeless – black and white – area.
The contest reached its peak, and the fighters leapt back after realizing that neither of them were going to overpower each other.
Kazimir considered utilizing his power, but then he noticed… he noticed that everything was a little too silent. Indeed, time had stopped, he hadn’t realized it at all. With his attention shifted, and his bloodlust turned; time begun picking up again, the color of the icy world returning to it at last.
Snow passed up to his arm in an unnatural manner, and formed an extension of his arm – his eyes glowing once more – and pointed at Weiss. He swung the arm, and a wave of snow formed, obscuring Weiss’ sight. He then dashed towards his trucks. As he moved, he saw some men on the fourth truck. A man waving his arm who seemed like his underling.
He dashed as fast as he could, but it took some moments, and just when he reached the man. There was a loud noise. An ear-splitting noise. Oh how he was used to this sound. The sound of a gunshot. His man dropped dead, and he could see another truck coming. Spitting on the cold ground, he jumped into his truck; finding a few of his men. He then screamed at the radio to whatever of his men left, and told them to head home. They’d have to drive past that truck of the god damned Soviets that came to foil his plans fully. It’d be a fool’s errand to try and deliver the goods now.
He’d have to find whoever that leaked information about his chosen route.
Pieces of steel clashed with repetitive clangs – resounding across the icy road and mountains – as the two fought for victory. As they exchanged blows, they hurt themselves further. While the large blade that Lily held did considerable damage; Kazimir was far from done, as he gave her more wounds dragging her down, too.
After another loud clang, the two backed away – taking distance from each other – glaring with killer’s intent.
“...Strong,” Lily admitted. She hadn’t faced someone so strong in a while. Having trained to be a knight of the church for so many years, she was expecting to face a strong enemy eventually, but this was a little too big for her plate alone.
Kazimir let out a small chuckle, he wasn’t expecting much spirit from her. Although she was fairly battered, she could still stand and give a few good swings. Made Kazimir wonder what kind of training she must’ve gone through to reach her level. He quickly dismissed the thought, it didn’t matter for him. His main concern was getting the convoy up and running, this girl would just be another hindrance behind him soon.
Lily leapt backwards and ran for her dear life. Considering the wounds, she’d have to do something about them. The situation wasn’t going to get better if she’d simply keep fighting the boss without any protectives. She realized that the spell casted by Svetlana was likely still active, just staying in one place. So, she decided to go for it, but she wouldn’t reach it just yet.
“Tch,” Kaz scowled as the girl began to flee from him. “Go ahead and run, it’s the only thing you can do in this situation.” He muttered to himself as he looked back to the firefight between his men and the sniper. Looking at the state of his men, he would have to deal with her soon enough. But if there was something Kaz had learnt in the pass was not to let thorns come back to bite you. Turning back to the departing knight, he cracked a smirk before dropping his sledge.
More bullets grazed her body, several hit her shoulder and waist. It started to annoy her. “Tch, U.R.W, Assault Mode.” she whispered to her rifle. Half of the sniper rifle then flipped down to the lower part of it. A smaller barrel popped out of the separated upper part. She then shoot three shots at the grunt she hit before, and it hit the shoulder, neck, and forehead of the grunt, killing him instantly. Good, the sword girl jumped back. I need to kill this other guy first then focus on the giant.
Bringing his hand down to the snow, Kazimir focused his spirit into his arm and slowly the snow began to converge over it. His eyes giving a faint brown glow, revealing a certain mark inscribed over his irises. The white gauntlet continued to grow in size and density as the ground around him was picked clean, leaving nothing but the solid tarmac of the road. Standing back up, Kazimir beholded a gigantic extension of snow attached to his left hand, suffice it to say even he would have trouble hefting it around.
With the young knight still in his sights, he brought his new-forged weapon up, taking aim as she continued to run in plain view. With a smirk, Kazimir unleashed a torrent of ice projectiles, flying through the girl as she was a feet from her salvation. It was the finishing blow, between her wounds and the chilling cold, she just couldn’t take it any more and collapsed on the freezing snow. A smirk was still laden on Kazimir’s face but there was still one more to deal with.
Just when she pulled the trigger, the bullet traveled way off her intended target. Weiss tried to pull it again, it didn't respond. Too much snow in it huh? I guess I'll just melee the remaining grunt and kill the giant quickly. She thought as she put the rifle on her back and pulled out the combat knife on her leg. She then saw the sword girl had fallen. “No, not now. Must focus on current objective.”
Seeing that the sniper had lost her rifle, Kazimir’s apparent smirk grew even more. Should’ve gotten a Kalashnikov. He remarked before raising his snow gauntlet up once more, he unleashed a flurry of ice nails in the midst of his men’s fire.
Both ice and bullets hit her body as she charged in. She held her knife tight as she stabbed the grunt on his chest and killed him instantly. She gazed at the tall man as she pulled her knife out of the body.
With their sights locked at each other, the world begun to lose color. Slowly, it turned darker, yet the two could perfectly see each other. After all, the snow was white despite the world turning black and white. The blizzard was rendered inactive for the rest of the battle as time itself stopped.
Kazimir returned the leer with his own before making a dash for the woman. Time had stopped, but he didn’t notice it due to the heat of the moment. Closing the distance, he readied his frozen club and knocked the sniper back with a hard swing. To his surprise she recovered faster than he had expected. “Tch, you’re a tough one aren’t you.” He commented as he braced for her attack.
“Thanks! You’re not half bad yourself.” She complimented as she dashed to the giant. She then punched his thigh, followed with a heel kick to his stomach. The heel then blasted compressed air. It gave an explosive-like damage to him; pushing him back. She grinned at him and revealed her red left eye and azure right eye, before the right eye turned silver; the Cancer zodiac sign was clearly visible on her right eye.
“So you’re-” Kazimir paused as he took a knee, winded slightly by the blow. He looked around to note that the world around them had indeed stopped. Realising the intensity, he turned to his left arm where his gauntlet of snow was crumbling, returning back to the earth where it belonged. He scowled and turned back to the apparent Time Warrior, revealing also his own zodiac sign residing in his eyes. It was the mark of Taurus that glowed a faint light brown before fading away at the deactivation of his ability.
“Tch, to think I’d be facing one of you here and now.” He grumbled to himself as he brought himself up with his sledge. Once more he stood firm, the pain from the previous blow subsiding. Caught in their little reprieve Kazimir took notice of his opponent, rather all of the electronics sticking out of her. “. . . Are you, by chance, a cyborg?” He asked with a wary expression.
Surprised as she saw him stood up with a Taurus sign on his eye, she observed every part of his body and thought, No wonder he’s a giant. Weiss shook her head and focused on him. “Yes I am.” She answered his question with a flat expression and continued, “and you’re one of the chosen too. I did not expect that.” She then prepared herself to lunge at him.
Seeing her drop into a stance Kazimir took the initiative, breaking into a dash as he brought his sledge up high. Jumping over and bringing the hammer down on the woman, a wave of snow and gravel rippling from the impact. As the sleet cleared Kazimir clicked his tongue in disappointment as he saw that he had missed his mark.
Weiss slid to the side as the wave of snow and gravel tried to reach her, she then lunged to the side of him and barely slashed his left thigh using her dagger followed with a smash using the hilt on his side. She then back-flipped away, and kept her distance away from him.
Kazimir let out a growl, he was getting frustrated. Coming about and breaking into a full charge at Weiss, he readied his sledge once more. As he was coming straight at her, he stamped his front foot firm into the ground and with a somewhat clumsy spin knocked her back with his hammer. Seeing his attack had landed, he brought his sledge into the ground again bringing his swing to a halt.
Weiss quickly rose up after the blow. Without any delay she dashed in at him and kicked his inner thigh and moved up to his torso. She punched his torso three times before she leaped back with a kick on his torso to a farther location between them.
Letting out a grunt, Kazimir recovered his breath as he brought himself back up. Once again, he brought his sledge back, ready to swing. Unlike before however, he did not charge Weiss. Swinging horizontally, he brought the sledge round and around until it created enough force from spinning. Timing it, he released his grip from the hammer, letting it fly off in its trajectory.
Bringing a foot down to stop his turning, he onwards with disappointment as he saw his sledge had missed it’s mark, it’s handle now standing erect between the two warriors.
A weapon throw? Seriously? Weiss thought as she dashed past the sledgehammer that was thrown by the giant. She then did a jump kick on him that made him fell down to the snowy ground. She then stepped on his chest and pushed her heel down, activated her explosive blast on the grounded giant. She looked down menacingly at him after the smoke subdued with her silver colored Cancer Zodiac sign on her crimson red eye. She quickly back-flipped away from him yet again.
Kazimir dashed towards his weapon, he’d need to retrieve it to continue fighting. Picking it up, he found Weiss inches before him.
The two danced across the grey snow. Streams of steam and powerful waves were thrusted out by Weiss as she launched a flurry of kicks and punches, while Kazimir blocked most of her assault with sheer endurance and his well-positioned sledge.
The two couldn’t get anywhere.
They were more or less equal from how things stood so far. Kazimir couldn’t see this exchange of blows coming to an end, even. Before he knew it; they were locked in a contest of strength, with Weiss pushing at him with a knife that collided with the long hilt of his hammer; producing bright sparks, possibly the only color that formed in this timeless – black and white – area.
The contest reached its peak, and the fighters leapt back after realizing that neither of them were going to overpower each other.
Kazimir considered utilizing his power, but then he noticed… he noticed that everything was a little too silent. Indeed, time had stopped, he hadn’t realized it at all. With his attention shifted, and his bloodlust turned; time begun picking up again, the color of the icy world returning to it at last.
Snow passed up to his arm in an unnatural manner, and formed an extension of his arm – his eyes glowing once more – and pointed at Weiss. He swung the arm, and a wave of snow formed, obscuring Weiss’ sight. He then dashed towards his trucks. As he moved, he saw some men on the fourth truck. A man waving his arm who seemed like his underling.
He dashed as fast as he could, but it took some moments, and just when he reached the man. There was a loud noise. An ear-splitting noise. Oh how he was used to this sound. The sound of a gunshot. His man dropped dead, and he could see another truck coming. Spitting on the cold ground, he jumped into his truck; finding a few of his men. He then screamed at the radio to whatever of his men left, and told them to head home. They’d have to drive past that truck of the god damned Soviets that came to foil his plans fully. It’d be a fool’s errand to try and deliver the goods now.
He’d have to find whoever that leaked information about his chosen route.
0
Cinia Pacifica
Ojou-sama Writer
Svetlana came out of the truck as soon as she heard the horn, seeing a truck starkly different from these black vehicles parked outside, beside the line of mafia’s trucks. Men armed and wearing proper gears came out, and showed an emblem of the Soviets to her.
Her job was done. Women and children were now being rescued, and they’d all have to board that truck soon to get out of this area, and go back home. The woman who helped them were nowhere to be found, nor was Lily. With that thought, Svetlana realized that Lily chose to stay behind and fight last she was with her. An intense feeling of worry sprung up in her heart, and she dashed. She dashed towards the battlefield she once abandoned for the mission.
After some time, she could see spoilt blood across the snow. This was unmistakably the battlefield that she left to find the women and children. The corpses of the mafia lying on the ground were proof of it. There was still no sign of the sniper. However, she could hardly see Lily, either.
“Lily! Lily!” She called out. There was no response. She walked against the wind that made her shiver, trudging the thick snow; looking for her comrade. A glint of gold soon caught her eye at the corner. Just before the walls of wood she conjured back in her fight against the mafia members. They’d stay there till the next dawn, at least they shielded her fallen figure from the coming winds.
“Lily!” She shouted her name once more, making way to her. She noticed that the snow around her were crimson red.
Svetlana shook Lily hoping to get some kind of response from her, but from the look of it; it seemed that it’d be too much to expect from her. After not getting any response from her, Svetlana moved Lily so she that she could be able to try and carry her on her back. “Well, here goes nothing,” Svetlana said as she managed to lift Lily somehow. She then began walking towards the truck of the Soviet.
It was a troublesome feat. Svetlana carried Lily with painful effort, the sword she carried might’ve weighed more than the girl herself, how did she carry that thing all the time? She wondered. The lights of the truck came into view, and the men came to her and retrieved Lily from her, after she told them that she was a survivor and a fellow Rider.
Her job was done. Women and children were now being rescued, and they’d all have to board that truck soon to get out of this area, and go back home. The woman who helped them were nowhere to be found, nor was Lily. With that thought, Svetlana realized that Lily chose to stay behind and fight last she was with her. An intense feeling of worry sprung up in her heart, and she dashed. She dashed towards the battlefield she once abandoned for the mission.
After some time, she could see spoilt blood across the snow. This was unmistakably the battlefield that she left to find the women and children. The corpses of the mafia lying on the ground were proof of it. There was still no sign of the sniper. However, she could hardly see Lily, either.
“Lily! Lily!” She called out. There was no response. She walked against the wind that made her shiver, trudging the thick snow; looking for her comrade. A glint of gold soon caught her eye at the corner. Just before the walls of wood she conjured back in her fight against the mafia members. They’d stay there till the next dawn, at least they shielded her fallen figure from the coming winds.
“Lily!” She shouted her name once more, making way to her. She noticed that the snow around her were crimson red.
Svetlana shook Lily hoping to get some kind of response from her, but from the look of it; it seemed that it’d be too much to expect from her. After not getting any response from her, Svetlana moved Lily so she that she could be able to try and carry her on her back. “Well, here goes nothing,” Svetlana said as she managed to lift Lily somehow. She then began walking towards the truck of the Soviet.
It was a troublesome feat. Svetlana carried Lily with painful effort, the sword she carried might’ve weighed more than the girl herself, how did she carry that thing all the time? She wondered. The lights of the truck came into view, and the men came to her and retrieved Lily from her, after she told them that she was a survivor and a fellow Rider.
0
Cinia Pacifica
Ojou-sama Writer
(BGM)
The next day, Aramus was back at the academy safe and sound with most of his money intact – back in his class, where it was cozy, full of distasteful looks of contempt and disapproval from his students. At least Elizabeth was here. Despite the set of reactions there was, with gazes and mouthing off, after she offered of a piece of the steak, they definitely got along well; and he wouldn’t forget who had won the Mahjong game where he had been totally hopeless. As a teacher, it had been a moment of utter powerlessness. He had hardly been able to tell what was going on back there.
Today’s class was supposed to be like any other, but there was a difference. Almond was here today… the girls squealed and the boys were somewhat jealous, but they couldn’t quite defy the teacher, either, not with the reasons Aramus had. They could curse him, however, and that was exactly what they did. Elizabeth didn’t seem to act like the other girls towards Almond, and didn’t even bother to show any wish to approach him while he stayed beside Aramus. Rather, Almond crept and hid behind Aramus instead.
Aramus cleared his throat as he began the class, looking at each student in turn. “Right everyone, this is Almond.” He said, rubbing the head of the boy behind him. “He will be my new assistant and, as such, attend all classes with me. Please be gentle with him, he’s still young.”
“H-Hello… my name is Almond. N-Nice to meet you all… ”
And with that the girls of the class exploded in cheers and squeals. That one line had been cute enough, and Almond looked at the girls as if fearing predators more than, well, girls. He hid behind Aramus with his eyes closed.
“S-Scary… !”
“Nothing to be afraid of,” replied the young teacher, patting him on the head to calm him down. “You can stay beside me if you’re scared.”
Almond gave a meek nod. Aramus smiled reassuringly at the young boy before turning back to his class, all business. “Well, class, today we shall focus on magic theory, the basis and fundamentals of your spells.” The tome beside him floated over, pages turning in a flurry until they settled on what he had decided on for this lesson.
“We’ll start on the basics of your spell casting and how it manifests in this world,” Aramus started. “First, you choose a Realm to draw mana from – as we don’t possess any mana in our bodies – commonly the Magic Realm, or Dominion, Faerie, or even the Infernal Realm. This is possible by using calling upon the teachings of an appropriate subject. For example, we use CreoVim spells by using the knowledge of theology to gather mana from the Dominion Realm. Our knowledge of spells stems from learning the various chants or verses, or postures or gestures that we have to apply to said knowledge of theology. Thus we pick what spell we want to cast. The rest is simply applying mana to it, and making it work out. One of the difficult steps is learning the required knowledge, the other is controlling, manipulating, and reaping the benefits of the spell cast, which requires a lot of practice.”
“Umm, teacher, what are these teachings of the subjects you mentioned?” Almond asked, tilting his head. “How many of these would I have to study?”
Turning to his youngest pupil, Aramus could only offer a consoling smile. ”These are the basics of magic, as for which to study? All of them. You’ll get used to it.” It was cruel for him to do so but these were the essentials to becoming a good mage.
The students grimaced at these words, imagining complete knowledge over the three main subjects: Dead Language, Philosophy, and Theology. To top it off, there was lore to cover, too, combined in the incantations or gestures for casting spells. Learning all that would require a century at the least. Even then, one would forget a lot of one’s knowledge.
“What are the other subjects, then?” Almond asked, seemingly eager to know more.
“More knowledge is always better. For example, usage of the Dead Language. It’s mostly used for spell casting nowadays, to invoke spells that would otherwise not be possible with our current tongue. That said, I have yet to learn any of the Dead Languages. I do not expect you students to know everything but it would be an ideal goal to strive for.” Aramus finished, looking at Almond with promise. The headmistress herself had said that Almond was a gifted individual.
Almond seemed at a loss for words, not sure what else to ask.
Elizabeth raised her hand at such a moment – noting Almond’s situation – and asked a question, “Teacher, may I ask what the arcane knowledges are for learning to manipulate the Form of spells? I fear Almond here is lost on the knowledge of Forms.”
“Oh, Arcane knowledge are the more easily accessible methods of magic. Let’s take me for example. My Primary Form is Aurum which comes from the Realm of the Faeries.” In response, his grimoire floated out of his hands and spun around before returning to Aramus. “As you delve deeper into the various Realms, it will come with a certain understanding which results in more complex spells, or controlling other elements of the same Realm.” A small globule of water formed in the air for a short moment, light shining through it before it dissipated back into nothingness. “These are the Forms which you shall learn.”
“What would all the Forms be? So far we have only heard of Aurum, teacher.”
“From… the basic Magic Lore, we have Animal, Corpus and Terram. The Infernal realm has Ignem and Imaginem… Dominion lore covers Mentem and Vim. Lastly, Faerie lore covers Aurum, Aquam and Herbam.” Aramus finished off, counting off his fingers for each form. “That should be it.”
“Then… this may deviate from the topic, but what is the ideal lifestyle a mage should live by, teacher?”
“I’m probably not the best person to answer that question.” Aramus answered candidly, chuckling at his own state of misfortune. A certain spirit of misfortune clinging to him smiled contently from that answer, for some reason.
“But I’d think you have realized the best course for life from your experience?”
Aramus pondered for a moment, looking back on his own journey as a magus. “I’d say to never give up, that’s all. It’s pretty simple but there will be plenty of stumbling blocks along the way.”
“The correct answer is: live a life where you know how to live like a mundane, and mingle enough that you are never doubted. Thus, one should have at least the qualifications for one mundane profession,” Elizabeth answered with a smile, reciting the textbook answer.
“The podium is yours, Elizabeth. I feel like I should retire now.” He smiled at her cheek, winking back at Almond such that no one else could see.
“How unfortunate, I was expecting more of a challenge,” Elizabeth chuckled, irritating her classmates.
“If it’s a challenge you want, you’re free to join my practical lessons after school. Now, shall we carry on with class?” Aramus replied good-naturedly, a hint of a smile showing on his face. “We have a lot to cover today.”
“Yes, yes, it’d be an honor to duel Magic Magister-sama. I’d suppose we covered the basics just now, though?”
“Just Aramus or sensei is fine…” Not too big on titles himself, Aramus tried to play down the prestige. “Yes the basics are covered, we can move on to slightly more advanced stuff.”
Elizabeth pulled her arm down and stopped asking questions or replying, finding her job to get Almond educated through Aramus over.
Before Aramus could continue his lesson, there was a knock on a door. He beckoned the person to come in, after which the door was opened.
A teacher clad in black suit and white shirt – wearing spectacles over his deep black eyes – walked in. He was as handsome as ever, and the girls squealed again. It was somewhat entertaining watching the girls go so wild not only for a cute child, but also an apparently †˜hot’ man.
“There is something I must give you,” the man said, “would you please come with me for a bit?”
“Oh, wow, it’s Mikaido Takeru sensei!”
“I wish he was our homeroom teacher…”
And the class slipped into a state of whispering and exchanging opinions, most of which weren’t positive about Aramus.
Aramus sighed at his class, it was something he would never receive from them. That would be absolute attention. “Self study for now. Almond, you’re in charge. Make sure no one steps out of line and, if they do, you have my permission to glare at them.” he flipped his grimoire closed, falling in step behind the other teacher.
“E-Eh?” Almond – clearly flustered – nodded weakly. “Y-Yes teacher!”
The next day, Aramus was back at the academy safe and sound with most of his money intact – back in his class, where it was cozy, full of distasteful looks of contempt and disapproval from his students. At least Elizabeth was here. Despite the set of reactions there was, with gazes and mouthing off, after she offered of a piece of the steak, they definitely got along well; and he wouldn’t forget who had won the Mahjong game where he had been totally hopeless. As a teacher, it had been a moment of utter powerlessness. He had hardly been able to tell what was going on back there.
Today’s class was supposed to be like any other, but there was a difference. Almond was here today… the girls squealed and the boys were somewhat jealous, but they couldn’t quite defy the teacher, either, not with the reasons Aramus had. They could curse him, however, and that was exactly what they did. Elizabeth didn’t seem to act like the other girls towards Almond, and didn’t even bother to show any wish to approach him while he stayed beside Aramus. Rather, Almond crept and hid behind Aramus instead.
Aramus cleared his throat as he began the class, looking at each student in turn. “Right everyone, this is Almond.” He said, rubbing the head of the boy behind him. “He will be my new assistant and, as such, attend all classes with me. Please be gentle with him, he’s still young.”
“H-Hello… my name is Almond. N-Nice to meet you all… ”
And with that the girls of the class exploded in cheers and squeals. That one line had been cute enough, and Almond looked at the girls as if fearing predators more than, well, girls. He hid behind Aramus with his eyes closed.
“S-Scary… !”
“Nothing to be afraid of,” replied the young teacher, patting him on the head to calm him down. “You can stay beside me if you’re scared.”
Almond gave a meek nod. Aramus smiled reassuringly at the young boy before turning back to his class, all business. “Well, class, today we shall focus on magic theory, the basis and fundamentals of your spells.” The tome beside him floated over, pages turning in a flurry until they settled on what he had decided on for this lesson.
“We’ll start on the basics of your spell casting and how it manifests in this world,” Aramus started. “First, you choose a Realm to draw mana from – as we don’t possess any mana in our bodies – commonly the Magic Realm, or Dominion, Faerie, or even the Infernal Realm. This is possible by using calling upon the teachings of an appropriate subject. For example, we use CreoVim spells by using the knowledge of theology to gather mana from the Dominion Realm. Our knowledge of spells stems from learning the various chants or verses, or postures or gestures that we have to apply to said knowledge of theology. Thus we pick what spell we want to cast. The rest is simply applying mana to it, and making it work out. One of the difficult steps is learning the required knowledge, the other is controlling, manipulating, and reaping the benefits of the spell cast, which requires a lot of practice.”
“Umm, teacher, what are these teachings of the subjects you mentioned?” Almond asked, tilting his head. “How many of these would I have to study?”
Turning to his youngest pupil, Aramus could only offer a consoling smile. ”These are the basics of magic, as for which to study? All of them. You’ll get used to it.” It was cruel for him to do so but these were the essentials to becoming a good mage.
The students grimaced at these words, imagining complete knowledge over the three main subjects: Dead Language, Philosophy, and Theology. To top it off, there was lore to cover, too, combined in the incantations or gestures for casting spells. Learning all that would require a century at the least. Even then, one would forget a lot of one’s knowledge.
“What are the other subjects, then?” Almond asked, seemingly eager to know more.
“More knowledge is always better. For example, usage of the Dead Language. It’s mostly used for spell casting nowadays, to invoke spells that would otherwise not be possible with our current tongue. That said, I have yet to learn any of the Dead Languages. I do not expect you students to know everything but it would be an ideal goal to strive for.” Aramus finished, looking at Almond with promise. The headmistress herself had said that Almond was a gifted individual.
Almond seemed at a loss for words, not sure what else to ask.
Elizabeth raised her hand at such a moment – noting Almond’s situation – and asked a question, “Teacher, may I ask what the arcane knowledges are for learning to manipulate the Form of spells? I fear Almond here is lost on the knowledge of Forms.”
“Oh, Arcane knowledge are the more easily accessible methods of magic. Let’s take me for example. My Primary Form is Aurum which comes from the Realm of the Faeries.” In response, his grimoire floated out of his hands and spun around before returning to Aramus. “As you delve deeper into the various Realms, it will come with a certain understanding which results in more complex spells, or controlling other elements of the same Realm.” A small globule of water formed in the air for a short moment, light shining through it before it dissipated back into nothingness. “These are the Forms which you shall learn.”
“What would all the Forms be? So far we have only heard of Aurum, teacher.”
“From… the basic Magic Lore, we have Animal, Corpus and Terram. The Infernal realm has Ignem and Imaginem… Dominion lore covers Mentem and Vim. Lastly, Faerie lore covers Aurum, Aquam and Herbam.” Aramus finished off, counting off his fingers for each form. “That should be it.”
“Then… this may deviate from the topic, but what is the ideal lifestyle a mage should live by, teacher?”
“I’m probably not the best person to answer that question.” Aramus answered candidly, chuckling at his own state of misfortune. A certain spirit of misfortune clinging to him smiled contently from that answer, for some reason.
“But I’d think you have realized the best course for life from your experience?”
Aramus pondered for a moment, looking back on his own journey as a magus. “I’d say to never give up, that’s all. It’s pretty simple but there will be plenty of stumbling blocks along the way.”
“The correct answer is: live a life where you know how to live like a mundane, and mingle enough that you are never doubted. Thus, one should have at least the qualifications for one mundane profession,” Elizabeth answered with a smile, reciting the textbook answer.
“The podium is yours, Elizabeth. I feel like I should retire now.” He smiled at her cheek, winking back at Almond such that no one else could see.
“How unfortunate, I was expecting more of a challenge,” Elizabeth chuckled, irritating her classmates.
“If it’s a challenge you want, you’re free to join my practical lessons after school. Now, shall we carry on with class?” Aramus replied good-naturedly, a hint of a smile showing on his face. “We have a lot to cover today.”
“Yes, yes, it’d be an honor to duel Magic Magister-sama. I’d suppose we covered the basics just now, though?”
“Just Aramus or sensei is fine…” Not too big on titles himself, Aramus tried to play down the prestige. “Yes the basics are covered, we can move on to slightly more advanced stuff.”
Elizabeth pulled her arm down and stopped asking questions or replying, finding her job to get Almond educated through Aramus over.
Before Aramus could continue his lesson, there was a knock on a door. He beckoned the person to come in, after which the door was opened.
A teacher clad in black suit and white shirt – wearing spectacles over his deep black eyes – walked in. He was as handsome as ever, and the girls squealed again. It was somewhat entertaining watching the girls go so wild not only for a cute child, but also an apparently †˜hot’ man.
“There is something I must give you,” the man said, “would you please come with me for a bit?”
“Oh, wow, it’s Mikaido Takeru sensei!”
“I wish he was our homeroom teacher…”
And the class slipped into a state of whispering and exchanging opinions, most of which weren’t positive about Aramus.
Aramus sighed at his class, it was something he would never receive from them. That would be absolute attention. “Self study for now. Almond, you’re in charge. Make sure no one steps out of line and, if they do, you have my permission to glare at them.” he flipped his grimoire closed, falling in step behind the other teacher.
“E-Eh?” Almond – clearly flustered – nodded weakly. “Y-Yes teacher!”
0
Cinia Pacifica
Ojou-sama Writer
(BGM)
“I’d like to say that I called you out just to get more acquainted with you, but…” the man begun, his voice trailing away, with his black gloved hands; he reached under his suit to grab an object. Pulling it out; he handed Aramus a package. “This came for you urgently.”
“Thank you, Mikaido sensei.” With a look of curiosity, Aramus took the package from him. Casually opening the package, he peered inside to find a letter. The seal on it was unmistakable and he subconsciously took a breath. This was serious.
Deftly breaking the seal, he started reading the contents of the letter, eyes widening at what he saw.
Dear Aramus Valmark,
Good day to you. How do you do? I hope you are fine. I’d like to claim that I am well. However, I suppose the rest of the pleasantries may wait for another time in the near future, for we have a more urgent matter at hand.
There was a squadron of my men sent to investigate the futuristic Japan and its inventions. They were †˜spies’ as one would call them. One of them happened to be a Spirit Seer, and have unfortunately sensed a strong presence of spiritual energy. Folly overtook their actions, and they suspected what one would call a Descendant of Time, and attacked. A very unfortunate incident, and I wish my men would quietly follow their main mission, but this suspected girl may be a new and co-operating warrior of the Japanese government.
The men had confirmed the girl to be a Descendant of TIme, but they were – for the most part – defeated utterly. There simply weren’t many skilled fighters in their team to suppress the strength of a Descendant of Time. This is a case I may not ignore considering my position, and so, I would like to request you to join the squad temporarily – along with other invited mages – and assist them, to try and end this before it becomes a thorn to our already-narrow path.
Additionally – and on another note – I would like to invite you to the Queen’s Meeting where the rules of the Magic World will be revised. Every Magic Magisters are invited, and so are you. I look forward to having you in our meeting.
Please be well, and please run away from the target if she proves to be too strong.
Good luck.
Looking at the letter harshly, Aramus could feel himself slipping into a foul mood. Another Time Warrior making an appearance here was not a good sign. Looking at Takeru, he cocked his head to the side in question. Perhaps he would be coming along as well?
“I suppose you got the same mission, too?”
“You got that right,” the man said, apparently having noticed what he was about to ask anyway, “I got a letter explaining more or less about the misfortune of the quest of the squad,” Takeru replied.
Aramus nodded glumly. Nonetheless, it was a mission from the Queen, something he would strive to complete no matter what occurred. “Yes. Do you know who else is involved, Mikaido sensei? We have to begin preparations at once if we are to take her down.” Already Aramus was beginning to compile a list of what he would need to do, especially with Almond.
“I’m not sure. There are two other teachers enlisted. I know since I delivered those letters to them, but as for the rest, we will only know when we head to the rendezvous point. On that note, the point is actually in this academy’s courtyard. Apparently another †˜donation’ would be made to the Headmistress for this to work out.”
Scoffing, Aramus stuffed the letter deep within his robes. “She doesn’t change, does she, Mikaido sensei? Well, I’ll inform my class and then be on my way. Thank you very much for going out of your way to deliver this, I shall see you in the courtyard then.” He bowed slightly to his senior, returning to the classroom with a forced smile.
“It won’t be taking place just yet, and is scheduled after school. So take your time. You may prepare yourself till then, and perhaps gather the necessary equipments,” Takeru informed – raising his voice slightly – hoping he wasn’t too late to give him that important detail. “I will be on my way now.” Takeru then gave a slight and polite bow before he turned and walked away into the corridor.
“Ah, ok, see you then.” Aramus waved as the other teacher headed off. Stepping back into the chaos he was familiar with that of the classroom, he looked over to how Almond had fared.
Almond was surrounded – fidgeting clearly while sweating profusely – by many girls, all touching his cute face and making remarks about him. Elizabeth seemed to be behind them, trying to stop the girls, but she felt useless as she could hardly convince anyone. It was as though they couldn’t hear her. Someone pushed Elizabeth away, and her back soon rested upon a strangely familiar figure…
Looking back, Elizabeth’s cheeks flushed as she found Aramus – who just came into the class – before she immediately got off, disallowing his arms from catching her by her shoulders.
“W-Welcome back, teacher,” she greeted. Somehow, she felt the sensation sharply still, remembering the time she leaned on her teacher on the bench at the park.
Fighting the urge to blush, Aramus was inwardly thankful and cursing that it was her back and not… Never mind. “Almond, what did I tell you.” The outcome he already knew, the glaring had probably goaded the girls into teasing him. “I trusted you!”
“B-But glaring does nothing, teacher!” Almond retorted, sounding desperate and flustered. “And they can’t understand anything I say, either!”
“Well, most Japanese don’t understand Queen’s English… heh,” Elizabeth said with a low tone of voice, smiling wryly as if having a victory over the rest of her classmates.
“Elizabeth, play nice.” He said, patting her on the head before moving to Almond.
Elizabeth immediately went silent and blushed; glancing downwards.
“You must glare harder, young one. Language is but a barrier, just as there are many languages. Try body language.” In doing so, Aramus shot a dark look at the gathered students, images of muffins being stepped on turning his visage hellish at the sheer audacity of such an act.
The girls were ecstatic when Almond glared harder and pulled on his cheeks instead.
“Kyaa! So cute!”
“Sensei, these are the only times your lessons are…” the poor girl turned to Aramus with a big smile, only to have it ruined. Her face turned pale in a matter of moments as she looked at the scary face of Aramus, the other girls were curious of this reaction, and all turned to their teacher.
The next moment, they all ran back to their seats, wailing.
“...That was… so awe inspiring!” Almond remarked, clearly impressed. “I must learn to glare like that… one day!”
“In time.” Aramus replied with a laugh. At least the students were back in their respective places now, but he knew that his reputation had hit rock bottom once again. “All you need is the right motivation. Anyway, I don’t forbid interaction with the students, just be careful and watch your manners.”
The grimoire flipped open in front as Aramus caught up to where he had stopped before. “Right we shall continue from where we left off, oh! And girls, if you want some time with Almond here, the lady with the highest grades in the coming test gets to feed him something.” With a twinkle in his eye, Aramus declared this to the class. The boy was indeed helpful.
The girls were weirdly energized, and looked at each other with scary glances, gauging each other’s competitors. It seemed like Aramus had caused a rather negative atmosphere, but it’d work for the better of their academic records, if anything. Elizabeth sighed, but even she was tempted, perhaps she’d feed something to her teacher instead…
Revelling in the heated atmosphere, he continued but was sure this would be met with negativity. “I don’t have anything for the boys except a private training lesson with yours truly. Well, the girls are welcome to it as well but I’m sure you have other plans. I’ll make it worth your time, especially for the exams.” There was no better motivator than competition, or so he believed.
However, the boys didn’t seemed to have cared so much, and they more or less ignored the offer, some saying †˜yesss,’ in a laid back tone, never to actually show up for the extra practice lessons. But, his favorite student Elizabeth raised a hand.
“With pleasure,” she said, this was much more better than the offer made only for the girls, to her.
So long as it motivated at least half the class, it was good enough for Aramus. “Alright, lets continue.” The grimoire floated over once more and lesson began proper.
“I’d like to say that I called you out just to get more acquainted with you, but…” the man begun, his voice trailing away, with his black gloved hands; he reached under his suit to grab an object. Pulling it out; he handed Aramus a package. “This came for you urgently.”
“Thank you, Mikaido sensei.” With a look of curiosity, Aramus took the package from him. Casually opening the package, he peered inside to find a letter. The seal on it was unmistakable and he subconsciously took a breath. This was serious.
Deftly breaking the seal, he started reading the contents of the letter, eyes widening at what he saw.
Dear Aramus Valmark,
Good day to you. How do you do? I hope you are fine. I’d like to claim that I am well. However, I suppose the rest of the pleasantries may wait for another time in the near future, for we have a more urgent matter at hand.
There was a squadron of my men sent to investigate the futuristic Japan and its inventions. They were †˜spies’ as one would call them. One of them happened to be a Spirit Seer, and have unfortunately sensed a strong presence of spiritual energy. Folly overtook their actions, and they suspected what one would call a Descendant of Time, and attacked. A very unfortunate incident, and I wish my men would quietly follow their main mission, but this suspected girl may be a new and co-operating warrior of the Japanese government.
The men had confirmed the girl to be a Descendant of TIme, but they were – for the most part – defeated utterly. There simply weren’t many skilled fighters in their team to suppress the strength of a Descendant of Time. This is a case I may not ignore considering my position, and so, I would like to request you to join the squad temporarily – along with other invited mages – and assist them, to try and end this before it becomes a thorn to our already-narrow path.
Additionally – and on another note – I would like to invite you to the Queen’s Meeting where the rules of the Magic World will be revised. Every Magic Magisters are invited, and so are you. I look forward to having you in our meeting.
Please be well, and please run away from the target if she proves to be too strong.
Good luck.
- H.R.M Victoria
Looking at the letter harshly, Aramus could feel himself slipping into a foul mood. Another Time Warrior making an appearance here was not a good sign. Looking at Takeru, he cocked his head to the side in question. Perhaps he would be coming along as well?
“I suppose you got the same mission, too?”
“You got that right,” the man said, apparently having noticed what he was about to ask anyway, “I got a letter explaining more or less about the misfortune of the quest of the squad,” Takeru replied.
Aramus nodded glumly. Nonetheless, it was a mission from the Queen, something he would strive to complete no matter what occurred. “Yes. Do you know who else is involved, Mikaido sensei? We have to begin preparations at once if we are to take her down.” Already Aramus was beginning to compile a list of what he would need to do, especially with Almond.
“I’m not sure. There are two other teachers enlisted. I know since I delivered those letters to them, but as for the rest, we will only know when we head to the rendezvous point. On that note, the point is actually in this academy’s courtyard. Apparently another †˜donation’ would be made to the Headmistress for this to work out.”
Scoffing, Aramus stuffed the letter deep within his robes. “She doesn’t change, does she, Mikaido sensei? Well, I’ll inform my class and then be on my way. Thank you very much for going out of your way to deliver this, I shall see you in the courtyard then.” He bowed slightly to his senior, returning to the classroom with a forced smile.
“It won’t be taking place just yet, and is scheduled after school. So take your time. You may prepare yourself till then, and perhaps gather the necessary equipments,” Takeru informed – raising his voice slightly – hoping he wasn’t too late to give him that important detail. “I will be on my way now.” Takeru then gave a slight and polite bow before he turned and walked away into the corridor.
“Ah, ok, see you then.” Aramus waved as the other teacher headed off. Stepping back into the chaos he was familiar with that of the classroom, he looked over to how Almond had fared.
Almond was surrounded – fidgeting clearly while sweating profusely – by many girls, all touching his cute face and making remarks about him. Elizabeth seemed to be behind them, trying to stop the girls, but she felt useless as she could hardly convince anyone. It was as though they couldn’t hear her. Someone pushed Elizabeth away, and her back soon rested upon a strangely familiar figure…
Looking back, Elizabeth’s cheeks flushed as she found Aramus – who just came into the class – before she immediately got off, disallowing his arms from catching her by her shoulders.
“W-Welcome back, teacher,” she greeted. Somehow, she felt the sensation sharply still, remembering the time she leaned on her teacher on the bench at the park.
Fighting the urge to blush, Aramus was inwardly thankful and cursing that it was her back and not… Never mind. “Almond, what did I tell you.” The outcome he already knew, the glaring had probably goaded the girls into teasing him. “I trusted you!”
“B-But glaring does nothing, teacher!” Almond retorted, sounding desperate and flustered. “And they can’t understand anything I say, either!”
“Well, most Japanese don’t understand Queen’s English… heh,” Elizabeth said with a low tone of voice, smiling wryly as if having a victory over the rest of her classmates.
“Elizabeth, play nice.” He said, patting her on the head before moving to Almond.
Elizabeth immediately went silent and blushed; glancing downwards.
“You must glare harder, young one. Language is but a barrier, just as there are many languages. Try body language.” In doing so, Aramus shot a dark look at the gathered students, images of muffins being stepped on turning his visage hellish at the sheer audacity of such an act.
The girls were ecstatic when Almond glared harder and pulled on his cheeks instead.
“Kyaa! So cute!”
“Sensei, these are the only times your lessons are…” the poor girl turned to Aramus with a big smile, only to have it ruined. Her face turned pale in a matter of moments as she looked at the scary face of Aramus, the other girls were curious of this reaction, and all turned to their teacher.
The next moment, they all ran back to their seats, wailing.
“...That was… so awe inspiring!” Almond remarked, clearly impressed. “I must learn to glare like that… one day!”
“In time.” Aramus replied with a laugh. At least the students were back in their respective places now, but he knew that his reputation had hit rock bottom once again. “All you need is the right motivation. Anyway, I don’t forbid interaction with the students, just be careful and watch your manners.”
The grimoire flipped open in front as Aramus caught up to where he had stopped before. “Right we shall continue from where we left off, oh! And girls, if you want some time with Almond here, the lady with the highest grades in the coming test gets to feed him something.” With a twinkle in his eye, Aramus declared this to the class. The boy was indeed helpful.
The girls were weirdly energized, and looked at each other with scary glances, gauging each other’s competitors. It seemed like Aramus had caused a rather negative atmosphere, but it’d work for the better of their academic records, if anything. Elizabeth sighed, but even she was tempted, perhaps she’d feed something to her teacher instead…
Revelling in the heated atmosphere, he continued but was sure this would be met with negativity. “I don’t have anything for the boys except a private training lesson with yours truly. Well, the girls are welcome to it as well but I’m sure you have other plans. I’ll make it worth your time, especially for the exams.” There was no better motivator than competition, or so he believed.
However, the boys didn’t seemed to have cared so much, and they more or less ignored the offer, some saying †˜yesss,’ in a laid back tone, never to actually show up for the extra practice lessons. But, his favorite student Elizabeth raised a hand.
“With pleasure,” she said, this was much more better than the offer made only for the girls, to her.
So long as it motivated at least half the class, it was good enough for Aramus. “Alright, lets continue.” The grimoire floated over once more and lesson began proper.
0
Cinia Pacifica
Ojou-sama Writer
Natsu soon woke up on a hospital. Looking around, she saw equipments she had never seen or heard of before in her life. The technology here was beyond simply advanced. There was no pain in her body, but she couldn’t move properly, either. When she looked to the right, she found her entire left arm covered in machines, same for her stomach and leg. She could see many wires across the room. She only now realized that she was made to breath pure oxygen. Was she situation that bad?
“How do you feel now?” A man asked – sitting beside Natsu – clad in black suit and a tie. “You have been out for about four hours now.” The man wanted to add that he was surprised to see Natsu wake up so soon, but he decided against it. It seemed that Alice’s words came true.
The man was vaguely familiar to Natsu. She had seen him on TV on occasion. He was a government official of some kind. “W-what am I doing here…? Did I have a serious injury I didn’t notice…?” She felt very sore after Sagittarius took control of her body, but didn’t feel completely in agony. She figured some rest would have sufficed. “I-I’m still a bit sore, I guess…”
“Any normal human would’ve been crying,” the man said, solemn. “You had holes in your arms and open wounds on your stomach,” he informed, looking over the machines attached to her now. He didn’t even want to talk about the swollen spots, feeling that Natsu probably knew. “They’d take some time to recover if not for our technology, even if you are a Descendant of Time.”
Natsu’s body did indeed suffer these wounds while Sagittarius was in control of it, but they might’ve closed when she awakened back into her own body. It was still rather painful, though, at that time, she hadn’t fully recovered. She already felt better now, though, she figured she should leave that judgement for those taking care of her. “How do you know of the Descendants of Time…?” Natsu raised her eyebrows as she heard the man call her that. Then, she guessed the same thing she did about Alice, and was overwhelmed with surprise. “A-a-a-a-a-are you one, too!?” She stuttered as she made her assumption. Are there many Time Warriors around me…? Who else could be one…? She was getting flustered.
“Haha, of course not,” the man said, dismissively waving his hands. “As much as we’d love to have more, Time Warriors are extremely hard to come across,” the man answered. “It isn’t so hard to know about you, considering what you did; Alice-san noticed it almost immediately.”
“But where are my manners? My name is Kazuya Takashiro,” he said, introducing himself, showing Natsu a card. It was unfortunate that she couldn’t receive the card due to her ongoing treatment.
“I am a government official, and am here to negotiate with you, and discuss your future from here on out,” he explained. “Of course, we’ll discuss whenever you feel like it. Your rest is important,” he said, looking towards the window of the room, and finding a familiar face staring at them. “But I’d think she wants me to get this over with as soon as possible…”
Indeed, when Natsu turned to the other side, she found Alice standing outside the room, and watching them from the window there, wordlessly and motionlessly; an expressionless face stared.
“Ah, okay…” Natsu responded, somewhat detached from fully listening once she noticed Alice staring at her. She made sure she caught the man’s name, though. She shifted her attention back to the government official, and told him, “I’ll try to have my schedule cleared up for you soon, then, Takashiro-san,” with a smile. She thought back to what upcoming events she was to perform in, and if there were any gaps between those shows. She would need to ask her manager, but it was still painful for Natsu to think about what had happened between them the last time they were together.
“That is not happening,” the government official answered, smiling. He felt that it’d be pretentious of him to say it like that, but someone had to inform her that they went ahead and tied various ends of the upcoming situations already. They didn’t care about Natsu’s decisions on it, unfortunately, because they’d want to negotiate with her immediately. “We have contacted your company, and asked them to cancel your plans for the day. These wounds won’t recover till at least tomorrow, according to Alice-san. Besides, you’re in potential danger from the assassins of England that infiltrated our country now. It is best to lay low for some time as we take them out.”
Natsu’s eyes widened as he informed her of that. “...There’s more of them…?” Her head fell back onto the pillow and she started to take deep breaths, trying not to panic. She was under a great deal of stress the first time. Reliving those traumas from just earlier would take a great toll on her sanity.
“A few of them had escaped, but they may return with reinforcements. We will try to ensure your safety, but magic is… well, troublesome, so I am unfortunately unable to guarantee proper safety,” he answered.
“T-Thank you for your protection, i-in any c-c-case…” Natsu managed to tell the man despite being extremely nervous. She was truly grateful to be under their care at this moment; it was the only thing the prevented her from breaking down. Natsu took a few more deep breaths before asking, “So, are you a… magus…?” She still wasn’t certain what the pronunciation of the word was, but, regardless, Sagittarius had mentioned that some magi were willing to protect the Descendants of Time, rather than attack them.
“I am not,” the man answered, shaking his head, “however, I am well-acquainted with them,” he said, shedding some light to her confusion. “The government is working alongside the Shrine – a Japanese Organization comprised of mages. †˜Magus’ is such an ancient term, I wonder who told you about it.”
“Either way, we won’t be able to secure your safety for long, so we’ll try to have the Shrine provide you with protection.”
“The Shrine…?” Natsu immediately started thinking about temples nearby. Possibly a place with many monks or mikos? In a place like that, it would make sense if the people there were magi, she thought.
“Yes, the Shrine, they are the ancient mages of Japan, albeit there are some other Organizations; but Shrine is the largest and the oldest,” Kazuya explained. “They usually like to exterminate magical creatures that roams around every once in a while. Apparently those creatures existed much more in the past, several centuries ago.”
“Magical creatures…? Like what? Some kinds of chimeras or yokai or something…?” She started imagining things she’s seen on TV shows and comics. At this point, all sorts of things she thought were unreal had been occurring right in front of her.
“Why yes. Their ancestors were the ones that discovered the names of those monsters, and slayed or sealed them,” the government official said informatively. “Anyway, about your future… we’d love to have you work for us. What do you think?”
“E-Ehhh!?” Natsu yelped in shock at the sudden proposal. “B-but… what about my job as an idol…? I can’t suddenly leave… And I don’t know how to fight…” Certainly, Sagittarius’ power would help her, but until she could learn how to use it properly, she wasn’t comfortable with relying on it.
“We will not ask you to stop your idol activities, but please, we would love to borrow your powers,” the man said, bowing down his head deeply towards Natsu. “Alice-san–... erm, sama – also works for us, and she continues to do her activities regardless. Of course, we can make arrangements to train you for combat. However, if you are truly inept in it as you are, we would try to leave you be, but it is a blessing that Sagittarius chose you. Who knows; perhaps she sensed a talent for battle in you?” The man said, attempting to persuade her.
“Just so you know, Japan is in war at the moment, but the mundanes, or well, the public do not know of it because the mages are the cause of them.”
“Well, if you need my help, then…” Natsu started, but this was still a major commitment. She would need to discuss this with her manager, but just the thought of that still felt awkward for her. “I should still ask Manager-san… I’d love to help, but I have other duties as well…”
“Just as we do for Alice-san – and as I said – do not worry. We will be careful to try and balance all the technical matters between you and your company,” the man answered. “Besides, I wouldn’t recommend speaking with your manager about it; he is a mundane, as are all the members in your company.”
The man sighed, as if she was making him say something he didn’t wanted to. “Time Warriors are often sought out for who they are, the prophecy spurs mages to kill them, globally. Only Japan welcomes them with open arms. What do you think is the most effective way to keep your beloved from getting involved in all this mess?”
Hearing that word †˜beloved’ caught Natsu off-guard. It caused her to blush a bit in embarrassment. “H-How do you know this, Takashiro-san…?” But afterward, she recollected herself, and responded more properly. “Then… what should I do, then? Just come here while I’m not doing idol activities?”
“Well, I looked into the latest recorded camera records that you appeared in… ahem,” the man too, collected himself. “Yes, we’ll be helping you train and control your powers. We’ll let you decide how you want to help out Japan more specifically at a later time. For now… we think it is best to send you home after you recover. We have no intention of worrying your family. However, it is up to you if you want us to inform them.”
“Please do… I bet my family’s worried sick about me.” Natsu told the government official.
“Well, it’s not that late yet, so I doubt that they’re really worried yet,” the man replied. “But of course. Be careful with the bandages. I am not certain if you’d want to show those off,” he advised, “You may take them off in the morning tomorrow, according to the doctor, however.”
“I should thank them later for patching me up!” Natsu exclaimed while peeking at the door, seeing if there was a doctor in the vicinity already, however, she only caught sight of Alice from the window beside the door. “I’m glad that I’m somehow in good condition already, if the wounds were as serious as you mentioned earlier,” she told the man as she inspected her own body. Some soreness still lingered, but she was otherwise fine. “Should I be escorted home when I do get back…? I’m still being targeted right…?” Natsu asked, remembering that she was being pursued by magus, even at this moment, and becoming slightly paranoid because of it.
“Yes, we’re going to have you escorted back with a car, do not worry… but well, I can’t guarantee anything. This is also a reason why we’d like to have you trained for combat as soon as possible,” the official answered, despite not being too sure himself, but he said what he could to assure the poor girl. He couldn’t imagine the weight she was likely feeling from having so many truths and information about her position being tossed at her, but he felt it’d be better than informing her late.
“Thank you very much,” Natsu replied gratefully. Her mind began to wander off, as she wondered what would happen from here on out. What kind of training was she going to be put through? How often will she be attacked? Will she be able to handle all of this new stress? She tried to be optimistic about this. Natsu had endured rigorous training sessions in her idol work, she had survived an attack already – albeit, with a lot of help – and she hasn’t broken down mentally from all that has happened so far.
“How do you feel now?” A man asked – sitting beside Natsu – clad in black suit and a tie. “You have been out for about four hours now.” The man wanted to add that he was surprised to see Natsu wake up so soon, but he decided against it. It seemed that Alice’s words came true.
The man was vaguely familiar to Natsu. She had seen him on TV on occasion. He was a government official of some kind. “W-what am I doing here…? Did I have a serious injury I didn’t notice…?” She felt very sore after Sagittarius took control of her body, but didn’t feel completely in agony. She figured some rest would have sufficed. “I-I’m still a bit sore, I guess…”
“Any normal human would’ve been crying,” the man said, solemn. “You had holes in your arms and open wounds on your stomach,” he informed, looking over the machines attached to her now. He didn’t even want to talk about the swollen spots, feeling that Natsu probably knew. “They’d take some time to recover if not for our technology, even if you are a Descendant of Time.”
Natsu’s body did indeed suffer these wounds while Sagittarius was in control of it, but they might’ve closed when she awakened back into her own body. It was still rather painful, though, at that time, she hadn’t fully recovered. She already felt better now, though, she figured she should leave that judgement for those taking care of her. “How do you know of the Descendants of Time…?” Natsu raised her eyebrows as she heard the man call her that. Then, she guessed the same thing she did about Alice, and was overwhelmed with surprise. “A-a-a-a-a-are you one, too!?” She stuttered as she made her assumption. Are there many Time Warriors around me…? Who else could be one…? She was getting flustered.
“Haha, of course not,” the man said, dismissively waving his hands. “As much as we’d love to have more, Time Warriors are extremely hard to come across,” the man answered. “It isn’t so hard to know about you, considering what you did; Alice-san noticed it almost immediately.”
“But where are my manners? My name is Kazuya Takashiro,” he said, introducing himself, showing Natsu a card. It was unfortunate that she couldn’t receive the card due to her ongoing treatment.
“I am a government official, and am here to negotiate with you, and discuss your future from here on out,” he explained. “Of course, we’ll discuss whenever you feel like it. Your rest is important,” he said, looking towards the window of the room, and finding a familiar face staring at them. “But I’d think she wants me to get this over with as soon as possible…”
Indeed, when Natsu turned to the other side, she found Alice standing outside the room, and watching them from the window there, wordlessly and motionlessly; an expressionless face stared.
“Ah, okay…” Natsu responded, somewhat detached from fully listening once she noticed Alice staring at her. She made sure she caught the man’s name, though. She shifted her attention back to the government official, and told him, “I’ll try to have my schedule cleared up for you soon, then, Takashiro-san,” with a smile. She thought back to what upcoming events she was to perform in, and if there were any gaps between those shows. She would need to ask her manager, but it was still painful for Natsu to think about what had happened between them the last time they were together.
“That is not happening,” the government official answered, smiling. He felt that it’d be pretentious of him to say it like that, but someone had to inform her that they went ahead and tied various ends of the upcoming situations already. They didn’t care about Natsu’s decisions on it, unfortunately, because they’d want to negotiate with her immediately. “We have contacted your company, and asked them to cancel your plans for the day. These wounds won’t recover till at least tomorrow, according to Alice-san. Besides, you’re in potential danger from the assassins of England that infiltrated our country now. It is best to lay low for some time as we take them out.”
Natsu’s eyes widened as he informed her of that. “...There’s more of them…?” Her head fell back onto the pillow and she started to take deep breaths, trying not to panic. She was under a great deal of stress the first time. Reliving those traumas from just earlier would take a great toll on her sanity.
“A few of them had escaped, but they may return with reinforcements. We will try to ensure your safety, but magic is… well, troublesome, so I am unfortunately unable to guarantee proper safety,” he answered.
“T-Thank you for your protection, i-in any c-c-case…” Natsu managed to tell the man despite being extremely nervous. She was truly grateful to be under their care at this moment; it was the only thing the prevented her from breaking down. Natsu took a few more deep breaths before asking, “So, are you a… magus…?” She still wasn’t certain what the pronunciation of the word was, but, regardless, Sagittarius had mentioned that some magi were willing to protect the Descendants of Time, rather than attack them.
“I am not,” the man answered, shaking his head, “however, I am well-acquainted with them,” he said, shedding some light to her confusion. “The government is working alongside the Shrine – a Japanese Organization comprised of mages. †˜Magus’ is such an ancient term, I wonder who told you about it.”
“Either way, we won’t be able to secure your safety for long, so we’ll try to have the Shrine provide you with protection.”
“The Shrine…?” Natsu immediately started thinking about temples nearby. Possibly a place with many monks or mikos? In a place like that, it would make sense if the people there were magi, she thought.
“Yes, the Shrine, they are the ancient mages of Japan, albeit there are some other Organizations; but Shrine is the largest and the oldest,” Kazuya explained. “They usually like to exterminate magical creatures that roams around every once in a while. Apparently those creatures existed much more in the past, several centuries ago.”
“Magical creatures…? Like what? Some kinds of chimeras or yokai or something…?” She started imagining things she’s seen on TV shows and comics. At this point, all sorts of things she thought were unreal had been occurring right in front of her.
“Why yes. Their ancestors were the ones that discovered the names of those monsters, and slayed or sealed them,” the government official said informatively. “Anyway, about your future… we’d love to have you work for us. What do you think?”
“E-Ehhh!?” Natsu yelped in shock at the sudden proposal. “B-but… what about my job as an idol…? I can’t suddenly leave… And I don’t know how to fight…” Certainly, Sagittarius’ power would help her, but until she could learn how to use it properly, she wasn’t comfortable with relying on it.
“We will not ask you to stop your idol activities, but please, we would love to borrow your powers,” the man said, bowing down his head deeply towards Natsu. “Alice-san–... erm, sama – also works for us, and she continues to do her activities regardless. Of course, we can make arrangements to train you for combat. However, if you are truly inept in it as you are, we would try to leave you be, but it is a blessing that Sagittarius chose you. Who knows; perhaps she sensed a talent for battle in you?” The man said, attempting to persuade her.
“Just so you know, Japan is in war at the moment, but the mundanes, or well, the public do not know of it because the mages are the cause of them.”
“Well, if you need my help, then…” Natsu started, but this was still a major commitment. She would need to discuss this with her manager, but just the thought of that still felt awkward for her. “I should still ask Manager-san… I’d love to help, but I have other duties as well…”
“Just as we do for Alice-san – and as I said – do not worry. We will be careful to try and balance all the technical matters between you and your company,” the man answered. “Besides, I wouldn’t recommend speaking with your manager about it; he is a mundane, as are all the members in your company.”
The man sighed, as if she was making him say something he didn’t wanted to. “Time Warriors are often sought out for who they are, the prophecy spurs mages to kill them, globally. Only Japan welcomes them with open arms. What do you think is the most effective way to keep your beloved from getting involved in all this mess?”
Hearing that word †˜beloved’ caught Natsu off-guard. It caused her to blush a bit in embarrassment. “H-How do you know this, Takashiro-san…?” But afterward, she recollected herself, and responded more properly. “Then… what should I do, then? Just come here while I’m not doing idol activities?”
“Well, I looked into the latest recorded camera records that you appeared in… ahem,” the man too, collected himself. “Yes, we’ll be helping you train and control your powers. We’ll let you decide how you want to help out Japan more specifically at a later time. For now… we think it is best to send you home after you recover. We have no intention of worrying your family. However, it is up to you if you want us to inform them.”
“Please do… I bet my family’s worried sick about me.” Natsu told the government official.
“Well, it’s not that late yet, so I doubt that they’re really worried yet,” the man replied. “But of course. Be careful with the bandages. I am not certain if you’d want to show those off,” he advised, “You may take them off in the morning tomorrow, according to the doctor, however.”
“I should thank them later for patching me up!” Natsu exclaimed while peeking at the door, seeing if there was a doctor in the vicinity already, however, she only caught sight of Alice from the window beside the door. “I’m glad that I’m somehow in good condition already, if the wounds were as serious as you mentioned earlier,” she told the man as she inspected her own body. Some soreness still lingered, but she was otherwise fine. “Should I be escorted home when I do get back…? I’m still being targeted right…?” Natsu asked, remembering that she was being pursued by magus, even at this moment, and becoming slightly paranoid because of it.
“Yes, we’re going to have you escorted back with a car, do not worry… but well, I can’t guarantee anything. This is also a reason why we’d like to have you trained for combat as soon as possible,” the official answered, despite not being too sure himself, but he said what he could to assure the poor girl. He couldn’t imagine the weight she was likely feeling from having so many truths and information about her position being tossed at her, but he felt it’d be better than informing her late.
“Thank you very much,” Natsu replied gratefully. Her mind began to wander off, as she wondered what would happen from here on out. What kind of training was she going to be put through? How often will she be attacked? Will she be able to handle all of this new stress? She tried to be optimistic about this. Natsu had endured rigorous training sessions in her idol work, she had survived an attack already – albeit, with a lot of help – and she hasn’t broken down mentally from all that has happened so far.
0
Cinia Pacifica
Ojou-sama Writer
After a few classes, it was time to relax and have lunch, or so Aramus thought when he took out his favorite muffin, but Elizabeth wouldn’t let him off the hook on his first day to her lesson.
Thus, he was back to the same room in the girls’ dormitory, the poor man wasn’t allowed to say a single word as he was dragged while he clutched the muffin desperately so that it wouldn’t fall off.
“Besides, who eats a single muffin for a lunch anyway? It’s not even enough to fill a stomach,” Elizabeth roared, a motherly tone, and a slightly worried one, at that. She was already starting to get used to having Aramus here.
“I do…?” Clutching said muffin to his chest protectively, Aramus murmured to it in an equally motherly tone. “There, there. She didn’t mean that, muffin.” Swiftly taking a small bite out of it, he smiled. Aramus still felt disconcerted over coming here but he had a dinner coming up with the Queen. Any place else would have been insufficient.
“Don’t say that while killing the poor thing! Look, it’s crying cream out!” Elizabeth said, pointing towards the cream filling in the muffin.
“It’s crying out in joy at being consumed!” Argued Aramus, defending his actions, though he had no idea why he was doing so.
“Is that a masochistic muffin, or what?” Elizabeth cried out, apparently surprised at the comeback, taking a step away as if she discovered the worst truth ever. In reality, masochism wasn’t even a term she was familiar with until she met her Japanese classmates.
“They were made for this, it is their sole duty. To fill their consumers with joy.” Said Aramus with absolute assurance, it was only marred by the fact some of the cream was on Aramus’s lip.
“I suppose that’s true,” Elizabeth said, her dramatic tone gone before she leaned and licked some of the cream off from around Aramus’ lips, then laughed, as if their comedy skit was over. “This quality isn’t so good… is this even good for your health, teacher?” She asked, now in her usual, well-mannered tone as always, despite being so close to his face, she didn’t seemed to get easily flustered about it anymore.
Aramus nodded eagerly, lifting up one finger to accentuate his point. “All I need to know is that it is tasty.”
“Then I suppose this was well worth the effort,” Elizabeth said, picking up the bento box from her table after she turned away from the man. She opened it to let the steam of the rice fill the air. “Well… I am only hoping, of course. I do not have the confidence of a profession chef or a baker.”
Aramus could feel the rage of the muffin, of its jealously that he would squander its affections. The smell of the bento was again, divine and he did what he could to stop the salvia from leaking. He nodded dumbly, transfixed by Elizabeth’s cooking.
“Then, shall we start? Perhaps a bento is a little too Japanese. So I have prepared some western dishes too,” Elizabeth said, ushering Aramus to take a seat on the chair across the table. She went to the refrigerator to fetch some of the dishes she made and stored there.
Not only Japanese but Western cuisine as well? What kind of world had he ventured into? Thought Aramus. Like a child on Christmas day, not that he had the fortune of getting presents, perhaps now was the time for him?
Elizabeth soon placed the other dishes over the table and her hands hovered over them, a reddish aura escaping her palm as she used the basic applications of Ignem to heat her food. She then placed the spoon, fork, and knife behind Aramus’ bento, and chopsticks, too. These dishes were clearly nothing one could find in the restaurants across England, aristocratic food were something else entirely.
“I suppose this feels like a restaurant now? This is a new experience.”
“Oh yes. A full meal for the two of us, I’m starting to like these… etiquette lessons already.”
“We will see about that… ” Elizabeth said, taking a seat opposite to Aramus before picking up her fork and spoon. “I will start,” she said, “please note that you should not hold a fork and spoon as if you’re a murderer… well, not that I think you – as our teacher – are a barbarian. Ahem, but that would be a start.” Elizabeth then neatly cut the meat with her knife and took a part of it inside her mouth and chewed. “Always chew your food properly… but that’s beside the point; make as less noise as possible with the silverwares. Always rub her lips with the napkin. Why don’t you try now?”
Chewing as softly as possible on a slice of cut meat, Aramus was self conscious as he attempted to utilize the silverware without them clinking into each other. There were proper ways to hold a fork and spoon? Aramus only knew the one that he was familiar with after all these years. “It’s working out alright I guess.” He quipped, after swallowing the too well chewed piece of meat.
“Teacher, your lips… that said, I feel like you should attempt to appear more reserved when you sit on a chair across the dining table,” Elizabeth advised, getting up and wiping Aramus’ mouth for him. “Jeez, you have to take care of yourself more.”
There were few things in life that truly made Aramus freeze. Being selected as a Magister, defeating his mentor, these were the most memorable. Now he had something to add to that list as Elizabeth dabbed away at his lips, him being far too entranced to do anything.
“Oh my, it is done a little wrong,” Elizabeth said, then placed her hand over his. “You held the spoon slightly wrong,” she said, helping him adjust, her locks of hair falling over her teacher. They were far too close, but she was too absorbed into the so-called lesson to care about the closeness. “You mustn’t stop here. If you stop eating midway – even to ponder about something – your host may think that the food is bad.”
He peered at her, akin to a deer in headlights. His eyes searched for somewhere safe to rest upon, flustered as he was, and numbly cut away at… whatever was on his plate at the moment. Aramus sure as hell didn’t sign up for this! Was she trying to do something to him? Too bad all he could think about was how good her hair smelled, his brain already fried.
Elizabeth soon went back to her place, adjusting her hair and taking up her silverware, but was confused. “Are you alright? You’re a little too red and quite, teacher… ” she asked, sounding somewhat worried.
“My hands and shoulders are stiff.” was all Aramus could manage, all his muscles tensed up after the literal close encounter. Even now he was staring at his plate, burning a hole through its centre with his gaze. Looking at her now would only make it worse.
“Mn… is that so now? Perhaps I should give you a massage, then?” Elizabeth suggested, not sure what could’ve put him into this state.
Mouth dropping open at her statement, Aramus was dumbstruck. He very badly wanted to say yes but there was this little part of him that knew that in doing so, there probably wouldn’t be any turning back. Oh, this minx was good. ”I- I’m fine. I’ll get a hot bath later to relax. Shall we carry on with the lesson?”
“Yes, I suppose a bath would be a more effective method,” she responded, smiling. “Let us do that, then. Be sure to get used to holding the silverware that way, teacher. That is the basic of the basic.”
Aramus rotated his wrists to get a feel, fingering the cold metal. [“Basics, huh. I guess that’s a start…”
“Mhm, for now let us stick with those. Try eating some of the dishes that way. I doubt that it’d so easy a challenge.” Indeed, with the entire table filled, one would wonder if Elizabeth had nothing to do other than cooking. Perhaps it was her hobby? With maids and chefs back home, one may very well imagine her being unable to cook, or ever given the opportunity to do so. These were a class of their own aside from her bento.
Aramus picked up a slice of tamago but as he brought it over to his plate, it slid off the prongs of his fork, landing on a table with a slightly wet thump. He ground his teeth, not wanting to look at Elizabeth in spite of this mistake.
“No worries, you will be over these silly mistakes in time. Thus the point of the lessons by yours truly,” Elizabeth said, she felt bad for her food, but didn’t seemed to mind so much. “Also… never pick up food that falls from the plate. No matter where it falls, be it the table or the floor,” Elizabeth instructed, pushing back an envelope that almost peeked out from her pocket accidentally.
Aramus gulped, imaging what would have happened if such a thing had occurred during the Queen’s dinner. He then decided to put in as much effort as possible to avoid such a thing from happening, for both him, Elizabeth and the Queen for choosing him. The lesson proceeded without a hitch from then on, Aramus being extra careful and Elizabeth guiding him along.
Thus, he was back to the same room in the girls’ dormitory, the poor man wasn’t allowed to say a single word as he was dragged while he clutched the muffin desperately so that it wouldn’t fall off.
“Besides, who eats a single muffin for a lunch anyway? It’s not even enough to fill a stomach,” Elizabeth roared, a motherly tone, and a slightly worried one, at that. She was already starting to get used to having Aramus here.
“I do…?” Clutching said muffin to his chest protectively, Aramus murmured to it in an equally motherly tone. “There, there. She didn’t mean that, muffin.” Swiftly taking a small bite out of it, he smiled. Aramus still felt disconcerted over coming here but he had a dinner coming up with the Queen. Any place else would have been insufficient.
“Don’t say that while killing the poor thing! Look, it’s crying cream out!” Elizabeth said, pointing towards the cream filling in the muffin.
“It’s crying out in joy at being consumed!” Argued Aramus, defending his actions, though he had no idea why he was doing so.
“Is that a masochistic muffin, or what?” Elizabeth cried out, apparently surprised at the comeback, taking a step away as if she discovered the worst truth ever. In reality, masochism wasn’t even a term she was familiar with until she met her Japanese classmates.
“They were made for this, it is their sole duty. To fill their consumers with joy.” Said Aramus with absolute assurance, it was only marred by the fact some of the cream was on Aramus’s lip.
“I suppose that’s true,” Elizabeth said, her dramatic tone gone before she leaned and licked some of the cream off from around Aramus’ lips, then laughed, as if their comedy skit was over. “This quality isn’t so good… is this even good for your health, teacher?” She asked, now in her usual, well-mannered tone as always, despite being so close to his face, she didn’t seemed to get easily flustered about it anymore.
Aramus nodded eagerly, lifting up one finger to accentuate his point. “All I need to know is that it is tasty.”
“Then I suppose this was well worth the effort,” Elizabeth said, picking up the bento box from her table after she turned away from the man. She opened it to let the steam of the rice fill the air. “Well… I am only hoping, of course. I do not have the confidence of a profession chef or a baker.”
Aramus could feel the rage of the muffin, of its jealously that he would squander its affections. The smell of the bento was again, divine and he did what he could to stop the salvia from leaking. He nodded dumbly, transfixed by Elizabeth’s cooking.
“Then, shall we start? Perhaps a bento is a little too Japanese. So I have prepared some western dishes too,” Elizabeth said, ushering Aramus to take a seat on the chair across the table. She went to the refrigerator to fetch some of the dishes she made and stored there.
Not only Japanese but Western cuisine as well? What kind of world had he ventured into? Thought Aramus. Like a child on Christmas day, not that he had the fortune of getting presents, perhaps now was the time for him?
Elizabeth soon placed the other dishes over the table and her hands hovered over them, a reddish aura escaping her palm as she used the basic applications of Ignem to heat her food. She then placed the spoon, fork, and knife behind Aramus’ bento, and chopsticks, too. These dishes were clearly nothing one could find in the restaurants across England, aristocratic food were something else entirely.
“I suppose this feels like a restaurant now? This is a new experience.”
“Oh yes. A full meal for the two of us, I’m starting to like these… etiquette lessons already.”
“We will see about that… ” Elizabeth said, taking a seat opposite to Aramus before picking up her fork and spoon. “I will start,” she said, “please note that you should not hold a fork and spoon as if you’re a murderer… well, not that I think you – as our teacher – are a barbarian. Ahem, but that would be a start.” Elizabeth then neatly cut the meat with her knife and took a part of it inside her mouth and chewed. “Always chew your food properly… but that’s beside the point; make as less noise as possible with the silverwares. Always rub her lips with the napkin. Why don’t you try now?”
Chewing as softly as possible on a slice of cut meat, Aramus was self conscious as he attempted to utilize the silverware without them clinking into each other. There were proper ways to hold a fork and spoon? Aramus only knew the one that he was familiar with after all these years. “It’s working out alright I guess.” He quipped, after swallowing the too well chewed piece of meat.
“Teacher, your lips… that said, I feel like you should attempt to appear more reserved when you sit on a chair across the dining table,” Elizabeth advised, getting up and wiping Aramus’ mouth for him. “Jeez, you have to take care of yourself more.”
There were few things in life that truly made Aramus freeze. Being selected as a Magister, defeating his mentor, these were the most memorable. Now he had something to add to that list as Elizabeth dabbed away at his lips, him being far too entranced to do anything.
“Oh my, it is done a little wrong,” Elizabeth said, then placed her hand over his. “You held the spoon slightly wrong,” she said, helping him adjust, her locks of hair falling over her teacher. They were far too close, but she was too absorbed into the so-called lesson to care about the closeness. “You mustn’t stop here. If you stop eating midway – even to ponder about something – your host may think that the food is bad.”
He peered at her, akin to a deer in headlights. His eyes searched for somewhere safe to rest upon, flustered as he was, and numbly cut away at… whatever was on his plate at the moment. Aramus sure as hell didn’t sign up for this! Was she trying to do something to him? Too bad all he could think about was how good her hair smelled, his brain already fried.
Elizabeth soon went back to her place, adjusting her hair and taking up her silverware, but was confused. “Are you alright? You’re a little too red and quite, teacher… ” she asked, sounding somewhat worried.
“My hands and shoulders are stiff.” was all Aramus could manage, all his muscles tensed up after the literal close encounter. Even now he was staring at his plate, burning a hole through its centre with his gaze. Looking at her now would only make it worse.
“Mn… is that so now? Perhaps I should give you a massage, then?” Elizabeth suggested, not sure what could’ve put him into this state.
Mouth dropping open at her statement, Aramus was dumbstruck. He very badly wanted to say yes but there was this little part of him that knew that in doing so, there probably wouldn’t be any turning back. Oh, this minx was good. ”I- I’m fine. I’ll get a hot bath later to relax. Shall we carry on with the lesson?”
“Yes, I suppose a bath would be a more effective method,” she responded, smiling. “Let us do that, then. Be sure to get used to holding the silverware that way, teacher. That is the basic of the basic.”
Aramus rotated his wrists to get a feel, fingering the cold metal. [“Basics, huh. I guess that’s a start…”
“Mhm, for now let us stick with those. Try eating some of the dishes that way. I doubt that it’d so easy a challenge.” Indeed, with the entire table filled, one would wonder if Elizabeth had nothing to do other than cooking. Perhaps it was her hobby? With maids and chefs back home, one may very well imagine her being unable to cook, or ever given the opportunity to do so. These were a class of their own aside from her bento.
Aramus picked up a slice of tamago but as he brought it over to his plate, it slid off the prongs of his fork, landing on a table with a slightly wet thump. He ground his teeth, not wanting to look at Elizabeth in spite of this mistake.
“No worries, you will be over these silly mistakes in time. Thus the point of the lessons by yours truly,” Elizabeth said, she felt bad for her food, but didn’t seemed to mind so much. “Also… never pick up food that falls from the plate. No matter where it falls, be it the table or the floor,” Elizabeth instructed, pushing back an envelope that almost peeked out from her pocket accidentally.
Aramus gulped, imaging what would have happened if such a thing had occurred during the Queen’s dinner. He then decided to put in as much effort as possible to avoid such a thing from happening, for both him, Elizabeth and the Queen for choosing him. The lesson proceeded without a hitch from then on, Aramus being extra careful and Elizabeth guiding him along.
0
Cinia Pacifica
Ojou-sama Writer
Aramus walked out of the main premises of the academy, and traveled across the courtyard. A group of individuals gathered around the place. Some scholars watched the group gather, but they didn’t dare mingle with them. There were about twenty or so mages invited, Aramus being one of them aside from Takeru Mikaido.
“You seem as ready as ever,” Takeru said, seeing Aramus come to the group. Most of the people formed circles talking among themselves, waiting on the original members of the squad to give a briefing regarding the operation. “It seems like these people are more or less excited. I cannot say the same for myself, unfortunate,” he stated.
“When has this happened before… It seems like a once in a lifetime experience, if only that it weren’t so foreboding.” Aramus smiled at his senior, joining the group of mages.
“Not much, that’s all I may say,” Takeru replied, chuckling, “in regards to such gatherings, that is. Otherwise, nobles and the rich are always looking for glory.”
“Definitely won’t come easy, I estimate half of us going down even against a fledgeling.” Replied Aramus, scanning the group that had assembled. “Any idea who’s in charge? Or will it be you, Mikaido sensei?”
“The ones from the squad insists on being in charge,” Takeru shrugged. “We’ll have to persuade them, I feel like a group of spies that has failed already needs a leader experienced in assassination, or even someone who lead a squad just for extermination. Besides, their main leader was killed in combat. The Spirit Seer only confirmed it, but he was rather scared to face the warrior.”
“People like that have no place as leaders. They’ll only get the rest of us killed with incompetence. Perhaps you should take charge, Mikaido sensei?” Aramus said truthfully, quiet enough for only him and his partner to hear.
“Haha, that makes me happy. Well, there are three of us Magic Magisters today,” Takeru said. “If we can convince them; I hope we can divide the squad amongst us, as I believe we are most battle-hardened.”
Aramus nodded in agreement, “I believe it will be more efficient that way to take down the target. If one goes down, the other two can continue or fall back. So who’s the last Magister?” He kept his eyes peeled, trying to remember who amongst the flock was one, or maybe they hadn’t arrived yet?
“Ah, about that… our Majesty managed to summon someone amazing… I am truly surprised, I kid you not,” Takeru said, he seemed pretty impressed.
“Hoh? If this person can impress you, I’ll have much to look out for!” With a curious tone, Aramus could only imagine how the missing Magister could have earned Takeru’s respect.
“My kill count does not surpass yours, but she has at least three times higher for a kill count, I think,” Takeru explained. “She also led a team in the Second Great Mages’ War. So she is a real veteran with experience. I am looking forward to learning from her.”
“S-Second Great War?” Now this was turning out to be very interesting indeed, Aramus could see why Takeru deferred to this person. “Wait, her? Her? Who?”
“Her, of course,” Takeru said, turning around.
“Good day to you all, ladies and gentlemen,” a certain lady said – golden locks of her swayed with the wind, bringing in a pleasant fragrance with it – holding what seemed like a paper fan up to her lips.
Somehow, the fragrance and the locks of hair was familiar to Aramus.
“Might this be the rendezvous point of the squad?” She asked, speaking in proper, British English. Much of the invited members turned to look, and there was thus a chorus of whispers from the students. The lady dressed exquisitely; wearing black flower-patterned stockings, a light-blue top, long black gloves. Her cleavage made even Takeru look away; her curves and figures were nothing like an aged lady’s.
“Oh, my, if it isn’t Mister Takeru,” she said, recognizing him, “a pleasure to find you here today.”
“Oh no… the pleasure is mine… Caroline Louisa-sama,” he said, somehow coughing up some English – it was hard to speak in proper English as a native Japanese, and he never practiced enough, either – before the two shook hands. “I am… most honored.”
“You still have that strange way of addressing,” Caroline chuckled. “Well, let us work together to purge the root of our issues today.”
“Likewise,” Takeru nodded. She was very much on-point about things, and that was one of the reasons Takeru admired her.
“And are you the third Magister invited today?” Caroline turned her gaze to the man who stood behind Takeru.
Aramus had quite blatantly panicked upon seeing Caroline’s appearance, thoughts of “She’s going to kill me if she hears the rumors” or “Someone must have told her I’ve been getting close to Ellie.” running through his head. He broke out of his funk at being addressed, nodding smartly before introducing himself. “Aramus Valmark. A pleasure to meet you, Duchess Caroline Louisa.”
“I am relaxed to know that someone speaks proper English here,” Caroline replied, she could hear Takeru chuckling weakly to it. “A pleasure to meet you too, Mister Aramus,” she then offered her hand.
“The pleasure is mine, Duchess.” Aramus replied, shaking her hand firmly in response. A privilege to have her lead the party, he would make sure that one eye would always be on Caroline if he could help it. There was much to learn from someone as esteemed as her. Aramus wasn’t thinking anything untoward at all, nope.
“Now, would either of you know where my daughter is? I hear that the Queen invited her to this group, too,” the Duchess said, looking about left and right.
Aramus looked around, fighting to keep the alarm off his face. Elizabeth would be joining in the hunt as well? His favorite student in a potential bloodbath?
Elizabeth walked out from the circles of students and walked towards the three. “I am here, mother,” Elizabeth said, giving a graceful curtsy as she pulled on her skirt a bit. “I am most honored to be invited to fight alongside you.”
“I really do not understand what the Queen is thinking. Is she testing me? Is she testing you? I am both happy and saddened… ahem,” the Duchess restrained her emotions from running amok further, she wouldn’t let her image fall here. “I am happy to be able to fight alongside my daughter… but dear, please just try to stay behind.”
“But that is so boring… ” Elizabeth complained, apparently eager to fight. Very eager. Much more than anyone could imagine.
“Well, it is educational to watch from behind, though,” Takeru said, pulling his index finger up trying to offer a consolation.
“As your teacher, I’d have to agree. What you learn from this fight will be more valuable in the event there are any future encounters.” Aramus said with a stern look, concerned for Ellie and his bentous.
“†˜With experience comes true strength’, those were my mother’s words, and I feel that they are one of her words I may stand firm on,” Elizabeth replied, facing Aramus; determined.
“Ah, have I said that before…?” The Duchess asked, averting her gaze; pretending to not know what her daughter was talking about. “Mn, so you are her teacher? I am happy to know that my daughter has been under good care.”
Yet again, the girl had said something audacious by wanting to go up against a Time Warrior. Aramus had to suppress a sigh at her being so headstrong sometimes. “Indeed I am, Duchess. It has been a privilege tutoring your daughter, she provided me with good insight on a few occasions already.”
“Including having to fetch a bo–” before Elizabeth could finish that, she remembered that it wouldn’t be good for her teacher’s image, and stopped. “Uhm, yes, he is a… a good teacher, but uninformed as he was not born a noble. I only help a little bit, teacher. It is nothing worth mentioning.”
“I see, I see,” the Duchess said, sounding happy. “It helps me to relax knowing my daughter is so reliable now, enough to help a young Magic Magister out,” she said, almost forgetting about said Magister himself. It was almost ironic, because she looked younger than the other two Magic Magisters. The wonders of magic and revitalisation.
”She has been most helpful in teaching me a little about finery and etiquette. I apologize for the shift in conversation but will you be taking charge of this operation, Duchess?” Aramus asked, all business.
“Ah, I see. You must have been one of the plebeians who climbed a long stairway to become a Magister. Impressive,” the Duchess said, smiling. While she complimented him, †˜plebeian’ was definitely the wrong word for it. She was harsh like that. “That is what I hope for, but I was asked to respect the wishes of the original squadron’s members,” she answered. “If worst comes to worst, I will have to seize control for the safety and effectiveness of the group.”
If the Duchess says as such then Aramus would follow. “Very well. I hope they have garnered enough information on the Time Warrior from their previous attempt.”
A few people wearing black garbs and cloaks walked towards the group. “Attention please,” they said, seeking the eyes of the invited individuals.
“We are the survivors of the battle against Sagittarius,” and it was given away – a vital information that was missing from the letter – the Time Warrior’s Zodiac Sign.
“Our Spirit Seer here found her, and unfortunately after that… only the three of us of the squad live, as you can see,” the man said, ushering to the female Spirit Seer, and the other man beside him. Their faces were hidden.
“Our original group had about thirty-eight numbers. A large one for spying purposes, but it was necessary for a country like this,” the man in the middle explained. “And now, around thirty of you were invited – by Her Royalty Majesty, no less – and with us included, that’s thirty-three. Note that it may not work out at all, but for the Prophecy; we must do this! Those who lack the courage of steel and fear death; please leave and go back, we will not force anyone to partake in such a battle.”
“Those who truly wishes to fight this, please come this way,” the mage instructed, as the group followed. No one left the group at all; everyone had their own purposes for accepting the invitation.
“You seem as ready as ever,” Takeru said, seeing Aramus come to the group. Most of the people formed circles talking among themselves, waiting on the original members of the squad to give a briefing regarding the operation. “It seems like these people are more or less excited. I cannot say the same for myself, unfortunate,” he stated.
“When has this happened before… It seems like a once in a lifetime experience, if only that it weren’t so foreboding.” Aramus smiled at his senior, joining the group of mages.
“Not much, that’s all I may say,” Takeru replied, chuckling, “in regards to such gatherings, that is. Otherwise, nobles and the rich are always looking for glory.”
“Definitely won’t come easy, I estimate half of us going down even against a fledgeling.” Replied Aramus, scanning the group that had assembled. “Any idea who’s in charge? Or will it be you, Mikaido sensei?”
“The ones from the squad insists on being in charge,” Takeru shrugged. “We’ll have to persuade them, I feel like a group of spies that has failed already needs a leader experienced in assassination, or even someone who lead a squad just for extermination. Besides, their main leader was killed in combat. The Spirit Seer only confirmed it, but he was rather scared to face the warrior.”
“People like that have no place as leaders. They’ll only get the rest of us killed with incompetence. Perhaps you should take charge, Mikaido sensei?” Aramus said truthfully, quiet enough for only him and his partner to hear.
“Haha, that makes me happy. Well, there are three of us Magic Magisters today,” Takeru said. “If we can convince them; I hope we can divide the squad amongst us, as I believe we are most battle-hardened.”
Aramus nodded in agreement, “I believe it will be more efficient that way to take down the target. If one goes down, the other two can continue or fall back. So who’s the last Magister?” He kept his eyes peeled, trying to remember who amongst the flock was one, or maybe they hadn’t arrived yet?
“Ah, about that… our Majesty managed to summon someone amazing… I am truly surprised, I kid you not,” Takeru said, he seemed pretty impressed.
“Hoh? If this person can impress you, I’ll have much to look out for!” With a curious tone, Aramus could only imagine how the missing Magister could have earned Takeru’s respect.
“My kill count does not surpass yours, but she has at least three times higher for a kill count, I think,” Takeru explained. “She also led a team in the Second Great Mages’ War. So she is a real veteran with experience. I am looking forward to learning from her.”
“S-Second Great War?” Now this was turning out to be very interesting indeed, Aramus could see why Takeru deferred to this person. “Wait, her? Her? Who?”
“Her, of course,” Takeru said, turning around.
“Good day to you all, ladies and gentlemen,” a certain lady said – golden locks of her swayed with the wind, bringing in a pleasant fragrance with it – holding what seemed like a paper fan up to her lips.
Somehow, the fragrance and the locks of hair was familiar to Aramus.
“Might this be the rendezvous point of the squad?” She asked, speaking in proper, British English. Much of the invited members turned to look, and there was thus a chorus of whispers from the students. The lady dressed exquisitely; wearing black flower-patterned stockings, a light-blue top, long black gloves. Her cleavage made even Takeru look away; her curves and figures were nothing like an aged lady’s.
“Oh, my, if it isn’t Mister Takeru,” she said, recognizing him, “a pleasure to find you here today.”
“Oh no… the pleasure is mine… Caroline Louisa-sama,” he said, somehow coughing up some English – it was hard to speak in proper English as a native Japanese, and he never practiced enough, either – before the two shook hands. “I am… most honored.”
“You still have that strange way of addressing,” Caroline chuckled. “Well, let us work together to purge the root of our issues today.”
“Likewise,” Takeru nodded. She was very much on-point about things, and that was one of the reasons Takeru admired her.
“And are you the third Magister invited today?” Caroline turned her gaze to the man who stood behind Takeru.
Aramus had quite blatantly panicked upon seeing Caroline’s appearance, thoughts of “She’s going to kill me if she hears the rumors” or “Someone must have told her I’ve been getting close to Ellie.” running through his head. He broke out of his funk at being addressed, nodding smartly before introducing himself. “Aramus Valmark. A pleasure to meet you, Duchess Caroline Louisa.”
“I am relaxed to know that someone speaks proper English here,” Caroline replied, she could hear Takeru chuckling weakly to it. “A pleasure to meet you too, Mister Aramus,” she then offered her hand.
“The pleasure is mine, Duchess.” Aramus replied, shaking her hand firmly in response. A privilege to have her lead the party, he would make sure that one eye would always be on Caroline if he could help it. There was much to learn from someone as esteemed as her. Aramus wasn’t thinking anything untoward at all, nope.
“Now, would either of you know where my daughter is? I hear that the Queen invited her to this group, too,” the Duchess said, looking about left and right.
Aramus looked around, fighting to keep the alarm off his face. Elizabeth would be joining in the hunt as well? His favorite student in a potential bloodbath?
Elizabeth walked out from the circles of students and walked towards the three. “I am here, mother,” Elizabeth said, giving a graceful curtsy as she pulled on her skirt a bit. “I am most honored to be invited to fight alongside you.”
“I really do not understand what the Queen is thinking. Is she testing me? Is she testing you? I am both happy and saddened… ahem,” the Duchess restrained her emotions from running amok further, she wouldn’t let her image fall here. “I am happy to be able to fight alongside my daughter… but dear, please just try to stay behind.”
“But that is so boring… ” Elizabeth complained, apparently eager to fight. Very eager. Much more than anyone could imagine.
“Well, it is educational to watch from behind, though,” Takeru said, pulling his index finger up trying to offer a consolation.
“As your teacher, I’d have to agree. What you learn from this fight will be more valuable in the event there are any future encounters.” Aramus said with a stern look, concerned for Ellie and his bentous.
“†˜With experience comes true strength’, those were my mother’s words, and I feel that they are one of her words I may stand firm on,” Elizabeth replied, facing Aramus; determined.
“Ah, have I said that before…?” The Duchess asked, averting her gaze; pretending to not know what her daughter was talking about. “Mn, so you are her teacher? I am happy to know that my daughter has been under good care.”
Yet again, the girl had said something audacious by wanting to go up against a Time Warrior. Aramus had to suppress a sigh at her being so headstrong sometimes. “Indeed I am, Duchess. It has been a privilege tutoring your daughter, she provided me with good insight on a few occasions already.”
“Including having to fetch a bo–” before Elizabeth could finish that, she remembered that it wouldn’t be good for her teacher’s image, and stopped. “Uhm, yes, he is a… a good teacher, but uninformed as he was not born a noble. I only help a little bit, teacher. It is nothing worth mentioning.”
“I see, I see,” the Duchess said, sounding happy. “It helps me to relax knowing my daughter is so reliable now, enough to help a young Magic Magister out,” she said, almost forgetting about said Magister himself. It was almost ironic, because she looked younger than the other two Magic Magisters. The wonders of magic and revitalisation.
”She has been most helpful in teaching me a little about finery and etiquette. I apologize for the shift in conversation but will you be taking charge of this operation, Duchess?” Aramus asked, all business.
“Ah, I see. You must have been one of the plebeians who climbed a long stairway to become a Magister. Impressive,” the Duchess said, smiling. While she complimented him, †˜plebeian’ was definitely the wrong word for it. She was harsh like that. “That is what I hope for, but I was asked to respect the wishes of the original squadron’s members,” she answered. “If worst comes to worst, I will have to seize control for the safety and effectiveness of the group.”
If the Duchess says as such then Aramus would follow. “Very well. I hope they have garnered enough information on the Time Warrior from their previous attempt.”
A few people wearing black garbs and cloaks walked towards the group. “Attention please,” they said, seeking the eyes of the invited individuals.
“We are the survivors of the battle against Sagittarius,” and it was given away – a vital information that was missing from the letter – the Time Warrior’s Zodiac Sign.
“Our Spirit Seer here found her, and unfortunately after that… only the three of us of the squad live, as you can see,” the man said, ushering to the female Spirit Seer, and the other man beside him. Their faces were hidden.
“Our original group had about thirty-eight numbers. A large one for spying purposes, but it was necessary for a country like this,” the man in the middle explained. “And now, around thirty of you were invited – by Her Royalty Majesty, no less – and with us included, that’s thirty-three. Note that it may not work out at all, but for the Prophecy; we must do this! Those who lack the courage of steel and fear death; please leave and go back, we will not force anyone to partake in such a battle.”
“Those who truly wishes to fight this, please come this way,” the mage instructed, as the group followed. No one left the group at all; everyone had their own purposes for accepting the invitation.
0
Cinia Pacifica
Ojou-sama Writer
The group was led to a tower close to the ends of the Boundary. The tower was created with a Terram spell, of course. The trio would then explain how the process of the battle and the entire operation would work inside said tower after everyone gathered inside. Of course, the Duchess, Takeru, and Aramus were the ones who stood before the rest, as their representatives.
“We plan to have the group invade from all directions,” the man in the middle begun. “As was done throughout the history of the Magic World; we may take the warrior out after surrounding her, and the ;longer it takes; the worse it gets.”
“Wouldn’t it be safer to take more time to prepare?” Takeru asked, a very genuine yet important one.
“Yes, but in this case, Sagittarius was wounded, we wouldn’t want to let go of this opportunity now, would we?”
“Fair enough,” Takeru nodded.
“Projectiles from Sagittarius are lethal, so we want Terram users to bolster our defenses,” he started, “we will conduct the attacks from behind those walls. We’d like it if anyone would like to volunteer to distract the Sagittarius throughout the battle by engaging her in melee combat.”
“Well? Anyone?”
Aramus quietly raised a hand from behind, a somewhat nonchalant look on his face. “I’ll do it.” The answer was straight to the point, taking the job that no one wanted to do and being able to leave more people in safety was enough for him.
“Then we will leave it to you, Mister Valmark,” the man answered before making a respectable bow.
“I will also take part in that,” Takeru said, raising his hand after Aramus. “Even if our teacher here is a Magic Magister, he is known to be a fighter of ranged expertise, and you’re asking him to fight a Time Warrior from close range… suffice it to say; he’ll need some hand.”
“Very well, you may fight alongside him in close-range too,” the leader nodded, approving the offer. “We’d like to request you to stay safe, Madam Duchess,” he added, seeing the duchess almost raising her hand. “Your spell is essential to dealing to final blow, I hope you understand.”
“...I understand,” Caroline sighed, placing her hand down.
“On that note, we’re going to rely on a simple strategy; while Mister Valmark and Mister Mikaido will distract Sagittarius, we’ll also be attacking from a distance. We’re gonna need a user of Scrying Surface to coordinate them better. Anyone?”
“Yes, yes, I can do that,” Mathilde said loudly and cheerfully, raising both hands, one of them holding a certain bottle.
“And then there’s… I suppose the last of it is how we’ll divide the team…”
“We plan to have the group invade from all directions,” the man in the middle begun. “As was done throughout the history of the Magic World; we may take the warrior out after surrounding her, and the ;longer it takes; the worse it gets.”
“Wouldn’t it be safer to take more time to prepare?” Takeru asked, a very genuine yet important one.
“Yes, but in this case, Sagittarius was wounded, we wouldn’t want to let go of this opportunity now, would we?”
“Fair enough,” Takeru nodded.
“Projectiles from Sagittarius are lethal, so we want Terram users to bolster our defenses,” he started, “we will conduct the attacks from behind those walls. We’d like it if anyone would like to volunteer to distract the Sagittarius throughout the battle by engaging her in melee combat.”
“Well? Anyone?”
Aramus quietly raised a hand from behind, a somewhat nonchalant look on his face. “I’ll do it.” The answer was straight to the point, taking the job that no one wanted to do and being able to leave more people in safety was enough for him.
“Then we will leave it to you, Mister Valmark,” the man answered before making a respectable bow.
“I will also take part in that,” Takeru said, raising his hand after Aramus. “Even if our teacher here is a Magic Magister, he is known to be a fighter of ranged expertise, and you’re asking him to fight a Time Warrior from close range… suffice it to say; he’ll need some hand.”
“Very well, you may fight alongside him in close-range too,” the leader nodded, approving the offer. “We’d like to request you to stay safe, Madam Duchess,” he added, seeing the duchess almost raising her hand. “Your spell is essential to dealing to final blow, I hope you understand.”
“...I understand,” Caroline sighed, placing her hand down.
“On that note, we’re going to rely on a simple strategy; while Mister Valmark and Mister Mikaido will distract Sagittarius, we’ll also be attacking from a distance. We’re gonna need a user of Scrying Surface to coordinate them better. Anyone?”
“Yes, yes, I can do that,” Mathilde said loudly and cheerfully, raising both hands, one of them holding a certain bottle.
“And then there’s… I suppose the last of it is how we’ll divide the team…”
0
Cinia Pacifica
Ojou-sama Writer
“Isn’t it a little too convenient?” Elizabeth begun. “Putting teacher with only another against a Descendant. What are they thinking?” Beside her was her mother, the Duchess, and with her were Takeru and Aramus; all sitting in a different room after the meeting was over. They all went over to the academy and found a place to lounge around in… or so they wished. The group simply stuck together on their way out to the academy as they marched.
“Now, now, he volunteered for it; he should be fine,” Caroline answered, trying to placate the worried Elizabeth.
“He’ll be fine,” Takeru said, smiling, “as long as he holds on to a muffin.”
“Those unpleasant and unhealthy products again…” Elizabeth murmured, it was as if they were her cooking’s rivals now, those dreaded sweet foods.
Aramus pointed at her with a free hand, the other holding onto said muffin. “I take offense to that! They make me happy!” He said, not giving a proper answer to what she had said. He looked down at the muffin in his right hand, it was banana today. “What if this is the last muffin that I’ll get to eat? At least let me enjoy it, I don’t want to die on an empty stomach.”
“I am sorry, and did not intend to offend you, teacher,” a formal apology from the girl due to the seriousness he displayed. “However, are you sure that you intend to die? My bentous are going to get cold each day,” this, she whispered to Aramus.
“Why would I want to die! That’s the last thing on my mind. I didn’t live and strive so far just to die.” He wailed, taking another bite from his muffin. “Besides, there are no bentous where I’m going so…”
“Not necessarily. They say that a mage should come prepared, always,” Elizabeth said, smiling. Now that Aramus thought about it, she was indeed carrying a big bag on her back.
“I am embarrassed to say it, but my daughter is often more prepared than I am, so much that I may learn from her,” Caroline laughed. She was very proud of her daughter, apparently.
Elizabeth’s nose was enlarged, at least that’s what Aramus almost thought as she seemed happy with the compliment. “It’s nothing. I am just doing what a proper mage would,” she said, waving her hand dismissively.
Sporting a small smirk, Aramus wolfed down the muffin. Looking at Takeru, he smiled gleefully like a child on his birthday. He did have the best students after all. “It must be very difficult to maintain such standards, I wonder how you do it Elizabeth.”
“With sheer strictness, and I avoid slacking,” Elizabeth said, acting all prim and proper.
“I lose,” Takeru stated, putting his hands up, “We’d love to have a Magic Magister who’d be renowned for her cooking,” he joked.
“Cooking is an art in and of itself. One should be proud to be able to produce delicacies within their own kitchen.” Aramus laughed, going along with it.
“Better than buying muffins, teacher,” Elizabeth said, somehow finding it a sarcasm of sorts.
Aramus looked a bit down when she said that, they were all he could afford after all. He looked at the right hand that had just only held one of said muffins, fingers flexing in muscle memory of its shape.
“Exactly what are the success rates of this operation, anyway?” Elizabeth asked, turning the faces around her solemn.
Caroline sighed. “Pretty low, to be honest,” she said, instead of lying to her to keep her comfort of mind as a mother.
“That is rather blunt…” Takeru commented.
Aramus remained silent, more concerned about the lives that would definitely be lost. “What other choice do we have…? He asked rhetorically.
“The only way I can think is to take it upon ourselves, us three, specifically,” Caroline answered, patting Elizabeth. “The Queen would rather have a strong few engage a threat rather than send a large squadron. She hates casualties, and so do I,” she added.
“I will help too…” Elizabeth said, looking down, but it was clear that her mother wasn’t going to make it easy.
“Well, I’m glad we have the same opinion then.” Aramus said, dusting off his coat of the muffins crumbs. “But you will stay behind with the rest of the group.” He said, pointedly looking at Elizabeth.
Elizabeth pouted. “We’ll see.”
“No we won’t, you stay safe, young lady,” Caroline said, pressing down on her head with a fist. “Now then, Mister Valmark… what do you specialise in, combat-wise? I have fought with Spell Grasper here once before, but I haven’t quite heard much about you.”
“I wouldn’t say that we fought together, it was only but a minute,” Takeru said, chuckling.
“I specialize in wind magic. Nothing particularly fancy, just what it takes to put someone down. Spells are only limited by my mana reserves and I don’t have a problem with cast times apart from rituals.” There was nothing to embellish about himself, just an earnest statement from someone from a simple person like Aramus.
“I see. Sounds simple enough, hopefully the wind is enough to provide distraction,” Caroline said, taking into account what he explained. She started to formulate a battle scenario in her mind, based on what she knew about the three Magic Magisters and what she heard about the Time Warrior from the report.. “This wasn’t mentioned in the meeting, but apparently Sagittarius is capable of nullifying magic, somehow,” she stated.
“Magic nullification?” Elizabeth asked, more than simply spooked out by the sound of it.
“Indeed. She also turned some people into trees, they probably don’t want to discourage people, so the information weren’t given out openly,” the Duchess said, perhaps she wanted to use another way to keep Elizabeth on the back. “The host is a girl your age, almost, Elizabeth; I don’t think you want any memory of wounding such a girl.”
Elizabeth silently nodded.
“Now, now, he volunteered for it; he should be fine,” Caroline answered, trying to placate the worried Elizabeth.
“He’ll be fine,” Takeru said, smiling, “as long as he holds on to a muffin.”
“Those unpleasant and unhealthy products again…” Elizabeth murmured, it was as if they were her cooking’s rivals now, those dreaded sweet foods.
Aramus pointed at her with a free hand, the other holding onto said muffin. “I take offense to that! They make me happy!” He said, not giving a proper answer to what she had said. He looked down at the muffin in his right hand, it was banana today. “What if this is the last muffin that I’ll get to eat? At least let me enjoy it, I don’t want to die on an empty stomach.”
“I am sorry, and did not intend to offend you, teacher,” a formal apology from the girl due to the seriousness he displayed. “However, are you sure that you intend to die? My bentous are going to get cold each day,” this, she whispered to Aramus.
“Why would I want to die! That’s the last thing on my mind. I didn’t live and strive so far just to die.” He wailed, taking another bite from his muffin. “Besides, there are no bentous where I’m going so…”
“Not necessarily. They say that a mage should come prepared, always,” Elizabeth said, smiling. Now that Aramus thought about it, she was indeed carrying a big bag on her back.
“I am embarrassed to say it, but my daughter is often more prepared than I am, so much that I may learn from her,” Caroline laughed. She was very proud of her daughter, apparently.
Elizabeth’s nose was enlarged, at least that’s what Aramus almost thought as she seemed happy with the compliment. “It’s nothing. I am just doing what a proper mage would,” she said, waving her hand dismissively.
Sporting a small smirk, Aramus wolfed down the muffin. Looking at Takeru, he smiled gleefully like a child on his birthday. He did have the best students after all. “It must be very difficult to maintain such standards, I wonder how you do it Elizabeth.”
“With sheer strictness, and I avoid slacking,” Elizabeth said, acting all prim and proper.
“I lose,” Takeru stated, putting his hands up, “We’d love to have a Magic Magister who’d be renowned for her cooking,” he joked.
“Cooking is an art in and of itself. One should be proud to be able to produce delicacies within their own kitchen.” Aramus laughed, going along with it.
“Better than buying muffins, teacher,” Elizabeth said, somehow finding it a sarcasm of sorts.
Aramus looked a bit down when she said that, they were all he could afford after all. He looked at the right hand that had just only held one of said muffins, fingers flexing in muscle memory of its shape.
“Exactly what are the success rates of this operation, anyway?” Elizabeth asked, turning the faces around her solemn.
Caroline sighed. “Pretty low, to be honest,” she said, instead of lying to her to keep her comfort of mind as a mother.
“That is rather blunt…” Takeru commented.
Aramus remained silent, more concerned about the lives that would definitely be lost. “What other choice do we have…? He asked rhetorically.
“The only way I can think is to take it upon ourselves, us three, specifically,” Caroline answered, patting Elizabeth. “The Queen would rather have a strong few engage a threat rather than send a large squadron. She hates casualties, and so do I,” she added.
“I will help too…” Elizabeth said, looking down, but it was clear that her mother wasn’t going to make it easy.
“Well, I’m glad we have the same opinion then.” Aramus said, dusting off his coat of the muffins crumbs. “But you will stay behind with the rest of the group.” He said, pointedly looking at Elizabeth.
Elizabeth pouted. “We’ll see.”
“No we won’t, you stay safe, young lady,” Caroline said, pressing down on her head with a fist. “Now then, Mister Valmark… what do you specialise in, combat-wise? I have fought with Spell Grasper here once before, but I haven’t quite heard much about you.”
“I wouldn’t say that we fought together, it was only but a minute,” Takeru said, chuckling.
“I specialize in wind magic. Nothing particularly fancy, just what it takes to put someone down. Spells are only limited by my mana reserves and I don’t have a problem with cast times apart from rituals.” There was nothing to embellish about himself, just an earnest statement from someone from a simple person like Aramus.
“I see. Sounds simple enough, hopefully the wind is enough to provide distraction,” Caroline said, taking into account what he explained. She started to formulate a battle scenario in her mind, based on what she knew about the three Magic Magisters and what she heard about the Time Warrior from the report.. “This wasn’t mentioned in the meeting, but apparently Sagittarius is capable of nullifying magic, somehow,” she stated.
“Magic nullification?” Elizabeth asked, more than simply spooked out by the sound of it.
“Indeed. She also turned some people into trees, they probably don’t want to discourage people, so the information weren’t given out openly,” the Duchess said, perhaps she wanted to use another way to keep Elizabeth on the back. “The host is a girl your age, almost, Elizabeth; I don’t think you want any memory of wounding such a girl.”
Elizabeth silently nodded.
0
Cinia Pacifica
Ojou-sama Writer
The group was split into three. The team with the strongest of members were the ones with the Magic Magisters, among some of the older mages and the teachers, Elizabeth was with them only because the Duchess requested it. The other teams were comprised of students, and a few elder mages. The last team carried the rest of those with differing ages and work backgrounds, and also contained the main leaders of the team.
Each team were to take different routes and stay in different hotels, but they were needed to meet at the rendezvous point later in the evening. It was soon to be evening in about an hour, and the Duchess – who was wordlessly considered their leader – decided that it’d be better to rest up while they could.
Aramus and Takeru were in the same room, while the Duchess and Elizabeth were in another. The rest of the members booked rooms throughout the hotel. Aramus was still sleeping sound and peacefully, but was awakened when he heard a noise of something soft exploding.
Snapping awake, he whirled under his covers and got to his feet. “Mikaido sensei, something’s up.”
“Ahh, sorry about that. I didn’t mean to wake you up” Takeru said, smiling wryly – sitting on a couch – his hand was somewhat wet for some reason. When Aramus looked around, he noticed that there were bits and pieces of an apple all over the floor around. Takeru’s hand was twitching with every few seconds. It seemed like he grabbed an apple and pressed on it; crushing it.
What a waste of a good apple, Aramus thought to himself. “Oh… that’s all? False alarm then?” He meant to go back to bed, the covers already pulling him back in their silky embrace. For Aramus, it was pure bliss to be sleeping in such a bed.
“Yes, but you might want to be more on guard… they doubtless know pieces of information about this operation already,” Takeru said, sounding somewhat paranoid.
Aramus grumbled as he got out of bed, what Takeru had said would prevent him from having a nice fitful slumber. “Then all we need to do is make sure they don’t live after we’re done.”
“Why don’t we go to the lobby for now?” Takeru shrugged, then suggested.
“Someone will need to clean that up later.” Aramus quipped as he stepped over the pile of mashed fruit. He opened the door quietly, looking left and right to make sure the coast was clear, but then he found Elizabeth standing in front of the door.
“W-what are you doing!?” He said in hushed tones, “Don’t sneak up on me like that.”
“U-Umm, well, I was about to knock, but then I heard a… s-strange noise. So I decided to wait,” Elizabeth said, her cheeks flushed red, looking downwards. “Are you two done?”
“D-done!?” Her teacher replied, slightly flabbergasted. “We didn’t do anything! I was sleeping!” Aramus couldn’t look her in the eye and was still struggling to maintain composure at her words.
“Ahh, I am glad,” Elizabeth said, heaving a sigh. What was she †˜glad’ about? One would wonder. “I thought that you two got into a contest of strength in there for some reason.”
Ah, so that’s what she meant. Aramus breathed out a sigh, looking at her with suddenly very tired eyes. “Sometimes, I don’t know what to do with you.”
“Mn? What is that supposed to mean, teacher?” Elizabeth asked, tilting her head. Takeru appeared from behind, taking up his coat and wearing it.
“We’re going downstairs for a walk. You want to come with us?” Aramus peered at Takeru as he came up from behind, stepping out into the corridor so as not to block him.
Elizabeth moved out of the way, too. “Yes, since mother drank a little bit much before heading to bed… I am rather bored,” Elizabeth said, scratching the back of her head.
“Your mother… The Duchess, she’s drunk?” Aramus asked with a confused expression. He shook his head shortly afterwards, not wanting to know the answer. “Alright then, lets go. As much as I miss my bed, it wouldn’t do to leave you alone.” With a sneaky grin, Aramus added in a softer tone so that Takeru wouldn’t hear, “Unless you want to join me, the bed is real comfy.”
“My, a tempting offer, but I’d rather try something I haven’t; those couches in the lounge,” Elizabeth calmly answered. The three were now walking down to the elevator. “I wanted to think that the teacher is a good man, though. It is slightly disappointing,” she said with closed eyes.
“You may think what you wish but I truly wish to return to bed. It is not often that I am able to sleep in one as comfortable as this, what were you thinking?” Aramus said, looking at Elizabeth.
“I was thinking that the bed is comfortable, thus a tempting an offer, but it is rude to ask such a vulgar question to a lady,” Elizabeth said, almost as if lecturing him.
“If it offended you, I apologise.” Aramus had sorely wanted to return to bed, perhaps his phrasing of the question wasn’t quite right? Oh well, what would one such as him, deprived of even simple luxuries, do in such a case? It was pretty obvious.
“Good,” Elizabeth nodded, dropping off her stern face and her apparent lecture mode and smiled. “It’d be boring to just sit around there, why not visit the shops with me?” She offered.
Nodding, Aramus followed along. She would be more in her element than him out in the arcade. Staying in the hotel was already a blessing for him but he couldn’t dream of affording anything that the shops would have had to offer.
“Well, if that is the case, I’ll let you two enjoy yourselves, while I stay in the lounge,” Takeru said as the three entered the elevator.
They soon exited it wordlessly, not having any words to exchange throughout the transportation. Elizabeth always found the descending a little surprising, not used to such technology. Takeru soon waved as he went for the lobby, leaving Aramus and Elizabeth for their time alone, apparently. Perhaps he sensed the mood and decided to do that?
“Then, shall we get going?” She asked.
“By all means, lead the way.” Having no inkling about the arcade, Aramus just wanted to stretch his legs for a bit. Everything here was out of league anyway.
Elizabeth nodded, and walked forward, entering through a pair of glass door that opened before she could push it open herself. Sometimes she’d forget that she was in the futuristic city of Japan. Aramus followed suit, and they found themselves in a store. Much like any other mall, in fact. There were shelves full of random products.
“My, such variety of products,” Elizabeth commented, looking from left to right, there was almost no end to these shelves. Just how could they fit all this into the ground floor of the hotel was beyond her.
Would any of these products be useful to him, Aramus wondered, already feeling tired from just looking at the sheer amount of consumerism before him.
“I see, so they have household products here… fashion brand shops are in the fifth floor. Oh, there is an arcade at the corner. What else… a swimming pool…” Elizabeth muttered to herself, apparently reading a pamphlet that she held on both her hands. “This place is amazing,” she concluded, intently staring at it.
“This place is expensive. Not a place for me, though the swimming pool does sound appealing.” Aramus could always appreciate a quiet dip in the pool, if he had one.
“Sometimes I wanted to try the †˜games’ that the Japanese frequently discuss in our class,” Elizabeth reminisced as she’d sit in class, alone, while others would gossip away in close vicinity. Girls would usually be always talking about makeup and cosmetics, which also got her interested in the brands of this country, but unfortunately, she hadn’t the luxury of immersing herself in so many things tonight. “Mn, a swimming pool does sound nice. It may be a nice change for relaxation before a big battle.”
“Games?” Normally he wouldn’t care about what went on with his class but Aramus’ curiosity was piqued. Perhaps he would spend some time listening in the next time they had class, assuming the students were in the mood for it. “A dip would be nice after all the… stress the past few days, yes.” Aramus idly wondered if there was any swimwear left that would fit him or if he owned any at all.
“Well, that does seem like a fair point. Considering you had to… yes, look for a rare wine, take in a promising cute boy, and now got caught up in a large-scale operation,” Elizabeth said, elaborating on the hardships and responsibilities that Aramus had recently gained. “Why don’t you go take a dip?” She suggested.
“Would love to but I just don’t own any swimwear that would fit me anymore. There was never much opportunity to visit a pool during my younger days.”
“Then why not buy one?” She asked, tilting her head as if it was the obvious thing to do.
Rich people and their trains of thought. “I don’t exactly have money to spend on things like that, especially since I’d have to go out of my way to visit a pool.” Aramus couldn’t remember the last time he had gone to one, it had been that long.
“Why not?” Elizabeth asked, “it’s just a pair of briefs, yes?” She wondered if just briefs would be so expensive that he’d hesitate to purchase them.
“I’ll just go in my spare clothes, saves me all the hassle.” It was not just about the briefs but the feelings that came with going to a pool. You could not simply buy that with money, it was about going with friends and having fun. Friends, which had been in short supply during his youth.
“That is rather boring, teacher,” Elizabeth said, sighing. “It is an insult to the pool if you go without swimwear. So just go and enjoy yourself after buying some briefs,” she added, pushing her teacher out of the shop. “I have my own battle to fight now…” she said, looking back to the kitchen appliance section of the shop, she couldn’t wait to get her hands on new equipment to cook. “So, I’ll be seeing you soon.”
Letting himself be pushed out, Elizabeth’s teacher took one last glance as she disappeared into the kitchenware before he moved off himself. It was time to test the differences between a gourmet muffin and a regular one, a much more appealing thought than spending money on a pair of trunks. Aramus licked his lips, smiling hungrily as he began his own quest.
Each team were to take different routes and stay in different hotels, but they were needed to meet at the rendezvous point later in the evening. It was soon to be evening in about an hour, and the Duchess – who was wordlessly considered their leader – decided that it’d be better to rest up while they could.
Aramus and Takeru were in the same room, while the Duchess and Elizabeth were in another. The rest of the members booked rooms throughout the hotel. Aramus was still sleeping sound and peacefully, but was awakened when he heard a noise of something soft exploding.
Snapping awake, he whirled under his covers and got to his feet. “Mikaido sensei, something’s up.”
“Ahh, sorry about that. I didn’t mean to wake you up” Takeru said, smiling wryly – sitting on a couch – his hand was somewhat wet for some reason. When Aramus looked around, he noticed that there were bits and pieces of an apple all over the floor around. Takeru’s hand was twitching with every few seconds. It seemed like he grabbed an apple and pressed on it; crushing it.
What a waste of a good apple, Aramus thought to himself. “Oh… that’s all? False alarm then?” He meant to go back to bed, the covers already pulling him back in their silky embrace. For Aramus, it was pure bliss to be sleeping in such a bed.
“Yes, but you might want to be more on guard… they doubtless know pieces of information about this operation already,” Takeru said, sounding somewhat paranoid.
Aramus grumbled as he got out of bed, what Takeru had said would prevent him from having a nice fitful slumber. “Then all we need to do is make sure they don’t live after we’re done.”
“Why don’t we go to the lobby for now?” Takeru shrugged, then suggested.
“Someone will need to clean that up later.” Aramus quipped as he stepped over the pile of mashed fruit. He opened the door quietly, looking left and right to make sure the coast was clear, but then he found Elizabeth standing in front of the door.
“W-what are you doing!?” He said in hushed tones, “Don’t sneak up on me like that.”
“U-Umm, well, I was about to knock, but then I heard a… s-strange noise. So I decided to wait,” Elizabeth said, her cheeks flushed red, looking downwards. “Are you two done?”
“D-done!?” Her teacher replied, slightly flabbergasted. “We didn’t do anything! I was sleeping!” Aramus couldn’t look her in the eye and was still struggling to maintain composure at her words.
“Ahh, I am glad,” Elizabeth said, heaving a sigh. What was she †˜glad’ about? One would wonder. “I thought that you two got into a contest of strength in there for some reason.”
Ah, so that’s what she meant. Aramus breathed out a sigh, looking at her with suddenly very tired eyes. “Sometimes, I don’t know what to do with you.”
“Mn? What is that supposed to mean, teacher?” Elizabeth asked, tilting her head. Takeru appeared from behind, taking up his coat and wearing it.
“We’re going downstairs for a walk. You want to come with us?” Aramus peered at Takeru as he came up from behind, stepping out into the corridor so as not to block him.
Elizabeth moved out of the way, too. “Yes, since mother drank a little bit much before heading to bed… I am rather bored,” Elizabeth said, scratching the back of her head.
“Your mother… The Duchess, she’s drunk?” Aramus asked with a confused expression. He shook his head shortly afterwards, not wanting to know the answer. “Alright then, lets go. As much as I miss my bed, it wouldn’t do to leave you alone.” With a sneaky grin, Aramus added in a softer tone so that Takeru wouldn’t hear, “Unless you want to join me, the bed is real comfy.”
“My, a tempting offer, but I’d rather try something I haven’t; those couches in the lounge,” Elizabeth calmly answered. The three were now walking down to the elevator. “I wanted to think that the teacher is a good man, though. It is slightly disappointing,” she said with closed eyes.
“You may think what you wish but I truly wish to return to bed. It is not often that I am able to sleep in one as comfortable as this, what were you thinking?” Aramus said, looking at Elizabeth.
“I was thinking that the bed is comfortable, thus a tempting an offer, but it is rude to ask such a vulgar question to a lady,” Elizabeth said, almost as if lecturing him.
“If it offended you, I apologise.” Aramus had sorely wanted to return to bed, perhaps his phrasing of the question wasn’t quite right? Oh well, what would one such as him, deprived of even simple luxuries, do in such a case? It was pretty obvious.
“Good,” Elizabeth nodded, dropping off her stern face and her apparent lecture mode and smiled. “It’d be boring to just sit around there, why not visit the shops with me?” She offered.
Nodding, Aramus followed along. She would be more in her element than him out in the arcade. Staying in the hotel was already a blessing for him but he couldn’t dream of affording anything that the shops would have had to offer.
“Well, if that is the case, I’ll let you two enjoy yourselves, while I stay in the lounge,” Takeru said as the three entered the elevator.
They soon exited it wordlessly, not having any words to exchange throughout the transportation. Elizabeth always found the descending a little surprising, not used to such technology. Takeru soon waved as he went for the lobby, leaving Aramus and Elizabeth for their time alone, apparently. Perhaps he sensed the mood and decided to do that?
“Then, shall we get going?” She asked.
“By all means, lead the way.” Having no inkling about the arcade, Aramus just wanted to stretch his legs for a bit. Everything here was out of league anyway.
Elizabeth nodded, and walked forward, entering through a pair of glass door that opened before she could push it open herself. Sometimes she’d forget that she was in the futuristic city of Japan. Aramus followed suit, and they found themselves in a store. Much like any other mall, in fact. There were shelves full of random products.
“My, such variety of products,” Elizabeth commented, looking from left to right, there was almost no end to these shelves. Just how could they fit all this into the ground floor of the hotel was beyond her.
Would any of these products be useful to him, Aramus wondered, already feeling tired from just looking at the sheer amount of consumerism before him.
“I see, so they have household products here… fashion brand shops are in the fifth floor. Oh, there is an arcade at the corner. What else… a swimming pool…” Elizabeth muttered to herself, apparently reading a pamphlet that she held on both her hands. “This place is amazing,” she concluded, intently staring at it.
“This place is expensive. Not a place for me, though the swimming pool does sound appealing.” Aramus could always appreciate a quiet dip in the pool, if he had one.
“Sometimes I wanted to try the †˜games’ that the Japanese frequently discuss in our class,” Elizabeth reminisced as she’d sit in class, alone, while others would gossip away in close vicinity. Girls would usually be always talking about makeup and cosmetics, which also got her interested in the brands of this country, but unfortunately, she hadn’t the luxury of immersing herself in so many things tonight. “Mn, a swimming pool does sound nice. It may be a nice change for relaxation before a big battle.”
“Games?” Normally he wouldn’t care about what went on with his class but Aramus’ curiosity was piqued. Perhaps he would spend some time listening in the next time they had class, assuming the students were in the mood for it. “A dip would be nice after all the… stress the past few days, yes.” Aramus idly wondered if there was any swimwear left that would fit him or if he owned any at all.
“Well, that does seem like a fair point. Considering you had to… yes, look for a rare wine, take in a promising cute boy, and now got caught up in a large-scale operation,” Elizabeth said, elaborating on the hardships and responsibilities that Aramus had recently gained. “Why don’t you go take a dip?” She suggested.
“Would love to but I just don’t own any swimwear that would fit me anymore. There was never much opportunity to visit a pool during my younger days.”
“Then why not buy one?” She asked, tilting her head as if it was the obvious thing to do.
Rich people and their trains of thought. “I don’t exactly have money to spend on things like that, especially since I’d have to go out of my way to visit a pool.” Aramus couldn’t remember the last time he had gone to one, it had been that long.
“Why not?” Elizabeth asked, “it’s just a pair of briefs, yes?” She wondered if just briefs would be so expensive that he’d hesitate to purchase them.
“I’ll just go in my spare clothes, saves me all the hassle.” It was not just about the briefs but the feelings that came with going to a pool. You could not simply buy that with money, it was about going with friends and having fun. Friends, which had been in short supply during his youth.
“That is rather boring, teacher,” Elizabeth said, sighing. “It is an insult to the pool if you go without swimwear. So just go and enjoy yourself after buying some briefs,” she added, pushing her teacher out of the shop. “I have my own battle to fight now…” she said, looking back to the kitchen appliance section of the shop, she couldn’t wait to get her hands on new equipment to cook. “So, I’ll be seeing you soon.”
Letting himself be pushed out, Elizabeth’s teacher took one last glance as she disappeared into the kitchenware before he moved off himself. It was time to test the differences between a gourmet muffin and a regular one, a much more appealing thought than spending money on a pair of trunks. Aramus licked his lips, smiling hungrily as he began his own quest.
0
Hynek received a call on his office phone. It was evening, and Chigusa left around an hour ago. She spent the entire day taking lessons pertaining to her future career; dancing, singing, and even some acting. Hynek’s day was somewhat boring on the other hand, but work was supposed to be boring. He went across the logs regarding this branch’s activities. It was pretty lax and tame to say the least. At one point, he stared at it listlessly, not even reading it anymore. His reverie was broken when the telephone begun to ring.
“Hello, is this the Obsidian Entertainment branch?” A man’s voice asked from the other side.
“Yes, Hynek Tamas speaking. Who is this?”asked Hynek signalling for Felix to start tracing the call. Felix nodded, and went off to look into the case.
“Ah, Tamas-sama himself. We’d love to have the honor of inviting your presence to the Evaluation Phase,” the man begun, “thus, we’re willing to offer you a seat for it.”
“You see, a new Time Warrior popped up in our country, and the government is very interested, as well as Alice-sama,” he added. In Japan, many preferred to say †˜Time Warrior’ rather than †˜Descendants’. In fact, the term was made by certain individuals in Japan, and to top it over, the term was founded online.
“I see, if I accept, where should I go to see the show?” asked Hynek.
“The government’s building, of course. We’re holding the event there. What do you think? I believe it’d be an advantageous social event for you.”
Hynek was sure that this wouldn’t be the simple social gathering that the man made it seem like, but this was his one way of seeing what they were all about. Now that he at least knew they weren’t behind the incident on the train, he felt less wary of them. “I will attend,” answered Hynek.
“That is great news, we will be expecting you, Tamas-sama,” the man replied, sounding happy before adding, “it’ll take place around eight at night. We hope to see you there.” The phone was then hung up.
“Are you sure about attending this, Master Tamas?” Felix asked, having came back to the room now. “Seems like the call was made from the government building.”
“We don’t know enough about what is going on. If we are going to get a grasp on the situation here we need to play the part. If there is a new Time Warrior, we have to protect them.” answered Hynek.
Felix shrugged her shoulders, wasn’t he just looking he expand his harem? Likely. “If you say so, I will make preparations and get you a suitable suit for the occasion.”
“Thank you…” answered Hynek as he turned around in his seat deep in thought. The more and more difficult the situation became, the more he feared seeing †˜that’ again. Reliving that crippling grasp on his body was enough to raise his blood pressure. He tried to push it from his mind, but the events of that day always returned.
“Is something the matter, Master Tamas?” Felix asked, keeping her eyes towards the screen of her cell phone. “Is there something to worry about in regards to Japan’s sincerity?”
“There is always a reason to worry, Felix,” answered Hynek as he continued to try and push the visions away. “Japan, for now, seems to be interested in keeping in our good graces. It won’t be good for us to turn away every ally. We will see what their true intentions are, and plan our moves from there carefully.”
“Indeed,” Felix answered, smiling, “business as always.” She then walked up to her master and began to massage his shoulders. They were indeed stiff, as she figured. “However, taking advantage of a side trying to keep you in good graces can be beneficial, Master,” she suggested, a sly smile forming on her face. It would truly be a stone used to kill two birds, a good advice, and a way to score points on her master, or so she hoped.
Hynek, as stressed as he was, felt himself melting into her hands as she massaged out the tense muscles. “What did you have in mind?” asked Hynek. Surely the japanese had their hands deep in Time Warrior affairs, and that alone was enough to help Hynek.
“Information. There are rumors that Japan has vast information about a range of things,” Felix answered. “Who knows, we might find something that might keep several enemies in check.”
“With all this technology at their disposal, that does not surprise me in the least.” answered Hynek. “If they have information of the assassins after us, that would be enough for me.” Hynek stood up from his seat, and smiled. “Let us get ready, they will be waiting for us.”
“Yes, Master,” Felix said, a little sad that she couldn’t massage those manly shoulders anymore. “I suppose I should get to preparing the suit now.”
“Hello, is this the Obsidian Entertainment branch?” A man’s voice asked from the other side.
“Yes, Hynek Tamas speaking. Who is this?”asked Hynek signalling for Felix to start tracing the call. Felix nodded, and went off to look into the case.
“Ah, Tamas-sama himself. We’d love to have the honor of inviting your presence to the Evaluation Phase,” the man begun, “thus, we’re willing to offer you a seat for it.”
“You see, a new Time Warrior popped up in our country, and the government is very interested, as well as Alice-sama,” he added. In Japan, many preferred to say †˜Time Warrior’ rather than †˜Descendants’. In fact, the term was made by certain individuals in Japan, and to top it over, the term was founded online.
“I see, if I accept, where should I go to see the show?” asked Hynek.
“The government’s building, of course. We’re holding the event there. What do you think? I believe it’d be an advantageous social event for you.”
Hynek was sure that this wouldn’t be the simple social gathering that the man made it seem like, but this was his one way of seeing what they were all about. Now that he at least knew they weren’t behind the incident on the train, he felt less wary of them. “I will attend,” answered Hynek.
“That is great news, we will be expecting you, Tamas-sama,” the man replied, sounding happy before adding, “it’ll take place around eight at night. We hope to see you there.” The phone was then hung up.
“Are you sure about attending this, Master Tamas?” Felix asked, having came back to the room now. “Seems like the call was made from the government building.”
“We don’t know enough about what is going on. If we are going to get a grasp on the situation here we need to play the part. If there is a new Time Warrior, we have to protect them.” answered Hynek.
Felix shrugged her shoulders, wasn’t he just looking he expand his harem? Likely. “If you say so, I will make preparations and get you a suitable suit for the occasion.”
“Thank you…” answered Hynek as he turned around in his seat deep in thought. The more and more difficult the situation became, the more he feared seeing †˜that’ again. Reliving that crippling grasp on his body was enough to raise his blood pressure. He tried to push it from his mind, but the events of that day always returned.
“Is something the matter, Master Tamas?” Felix asked, keeping her eyes towards the screen of her cell phone. “Is there something to worry about in regards to Japan’s sincerity?”
“There is always a reason to worry, Felix,” answered Hynek as he continued to try and push the visions away. “Japan, for now, seems to be interested in keeping in our good graces. It won’t be good for us to turn away every ally. We will see what their true intentions are, and plan our moves from there carefully.”
“Indeed,” Felix answered, smiling, “business as always.” She then walked up to her master and began to massage his shoulders. They were indeed stiff, as she figured. “However, taking advantage of a side trying to keep you in good graces can be beneficial, Master,” she suggested, a sly smile forming on her face. It would truly be a stone used to kill two birds, a good advice, and a way to score points on her master, or so she hoped.
Hynek, as stressed as he was, felt himself melting into her hands as she massaged out the tense muscles. “What did you have in mind?” asked Hynek. Surely the japanese had their hands deep in Time Warrior affairs, and that alone was enough to help Hynek.
“Information. There are rumors that Japan has vast information about a range of things,” Felix answered. “Who knows, we might find something that might keep several enemies in check.”
“With all this technology at their disposal, that does not surprise me in the least.” answered Hynek. “If they have information of the assassins after us, that would be enough for me.” Hynek stood up from his seat, and smiled. “Let us get ready, they will be waiting for us.”
“Yes, Master,” Felix said, a little sad that she couldn’t massage those manly shoulders anymore. “I suppose I should get to preparing the suit now.”
***
0
Cinia Pacifica
Ojou-sama Writer
(BGM: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fuedVOp2Feo)
A hand was dipped into her stomach. Just like that, it was as if her skin was made of cheese. The claws of the Steel Princess were so sharp that they pierced her tender artificial skin with ease, accompanied with a grotesque flesh noise. The iron-sharp claws were pulled out; revealing a broken circuit that it held. Another hand dug into her – replacing the broken machine, making her wail in the process.
Weiss found herself laid before her employer. Lights befell her, and her apparent doctor – who was also the person that turned her into an android – the Steel Princess was before her, examining every one of her wounds, and repairing her. She was renowned to be a lady who invented many kinds of androids. However, Weiss knew that she never aimed to make androids, she aimed to create humans with her own two hands, just that it was impossible to make humans. So she’d use steel and engine as †˜substitutes’ for the missing flesh. Since she was an android, her body was a mixture of circuits, engines, blood and flesh.
There were no neutralizer that would work effectively to help Weiss feel less pain for the remnants of her organic parts. Hence, she could only cry from the pain she’d feel from her flesh whenever an operation would take place. At times like these, they’d often have a talk to help keep her mind out of the pain.
“So, I hear you brought back a child with you,” the Steel Princess started, her mechanical voice resounding across the operation theatre, “are you certain of her potential?”
“Yes, I was fortunate enough to be able to take her away without anyone noticing. No one took care of her anyway,” Weiss flinched and closed her eyes to hold the pain for a minute and continued. “She was happy when I said that she will go to a new home when we rode back here. Even though she fell asleep halfway of the journey.”
“Sounds like a gullible child,” the Steel Princess responded, now fixing through some broken parts in Weiss’ arm. “I will make sure to take care of her after you.” Somehow, Weiss could tell that Steel Princess was excited, despite the voice sounding the same as ever.
Weiss chuckled at the princess as she dug through Weiss’ modified arm. “Also ma’am, the target was a Time Warrior. He held the Taurus mark.”
“Yes,” the Steel Princess responded, as if confirming what she had just reported, “that is the reason I had you attempt the assassination.”
“I see.” Weiss blinked and thought, I guess she was testing her modifications to see if it’s able to withstand any type of enemies. She continued, “Will the little girl live alone or living with someone, ma’am?” She asked concernedly.
“I haven’t really decided… likely somewhere in this facility,” the Steel Princess answered, uncaringly. “Why do you ask?”
Weiss shaked her head, “No, nothing.”
“So, what kind of power did the bearer of Taurus possess?”
“He controlled the snow around him, turning it into an gauntlet which can be used to fire ice at his enemies. Plus, he’s slow.“
“Slow, is it?” Steel Princess repeated, as if trying to remember the words she just heard. “That is a good news.”
“Yes, his movements were slow but he hits like a truck.”
“Like a truck?” Steel Princess tilted her head. “Snow aren’t so hard from what I know.”
“Ah, I mean he hits really hard with both his sledgehammer and his Taurus power. So it’s like he compressed the snow to a certain degree that it became really solid,” She explained and smiled at the princess.
“I see,” she replied to the android, who she was done repairing. She placed the equipments meant for repairing away and turned to her. “Repairs are done. I will now visit the girl you brought here.”
Weiss then carefully sat down and stretched her body. “Thank you Ma’am.” She then jumped down the operating table.
The Steel Princess smiled, and that’s all she did. Weiss expected a more proper response, but she received something unexpected in return.
“Visit the office in an hour.”
Weiss nodded, and took leave of the operation theatre. Moments later, she heard an ominous laughter from her employer as she closed the door shut.
“Ahahahaha!! What a coincidence! Truly! A fateful ploy of God. Hahahaha!!”
I’ll… pretend that I didn’t hear that, Weiss thought, walking away.
A hand was dipped into her stomach. Just like that, it was as if her skin was made of cheese. The claws of the Steel Princess were so sharp that they pierced her tender artificial skin with ease, accompanied with a grotesque flesh noise. The iron-sharp claws were pulled out; revealing a broken circuit that it held. Another hand dug into her – replacing the broken machine, making her wail in the process.
Weiss found herself laid before her employer. Lights befell her, and her apparent doctor – who was also the person that turned her into an android – the Steel Princess was before her, examining every one of her wounds, and repairing her. She was renowned to be a lady who invented many kinds of androids. However, Weiss knew that she never aimed to make androids, she aimed to create humans with her own two hands, just that it was impossible to make humans. So she’d use steel and engine as †˜substitutes’ for the missing flesh. Since she was an android, her body was a mixture of circuits, engines, blood and flesh.
There were no neutralizer that would work effectively to help Weiss feel less pain for the remnants of her organic parts. Hence, she could only cry from the pain she’d feel from her flesh whenever an operation would take place. At times like these, they’d often have a talk to help keep her mind out of the pain.
“So, I hear you brought back a child with you,” the Steel Princess started, her mechanical voice resounding across the operation theatre, “are you certain of her potential?”
“Yes, I was fortunate enough to be able to take her away without anyone noticing. No one took care of her anyway,” Weiss flinched and closed her eyes to hold the pain for a minute and continued. “She was happy when I said that she will go to a new home when we rode back here. Even though she fell asleep halfway of the journey.”
“Sounds like a gullible child,” the Steel Princess responded, now fixing through some broken parts in Weiss’ arm. “I will make sure to take care of her after you.” Somehow, Weiss could tell that Steel Princess was excited, despite the voice sounding the same as ever.
Weiss chuckled at the princess as she dug through Weiss’ modified arm. “Also ma’am, the target was a Time Warrior. He held the Taurus mark.”
“Yes,” the Steel Princess responded, as if confirming what she had just reported, “that is the reason I had you attempt the assassination.”
“I see.” Weiss blinked and thought, I guess she was testing her modifications to see if it’s able to withstand any type of enemies. She continued, “Will the little girl live alone or living with someone, ma’am?” She asked concernedly.
“I haven’t really decided… likely somewhere in this facility,” the Steel Princess answered, uncaringly. “Why do you ask?”
Weiss shaked her head, “No, nothing.”
“So, what kind of power did the bearer of Taurus possess?”
“He controlled the snow around him, turning it into an gauntlet which can be used to fire ice at his enemies. Plus, he’s slow.“
“Slow, is it?” Steel Princess repeated, as if trying to remember the words she just heard. “That is a good news.”
“Yes, his movements were slow but he hits like a truck.”
“Like a truck?” Steel Princess tilted her head. “Snow aren’t so hard from what I know.”
“Ah, I mean he hits really hard with both his sledgehammer and his Taurus power. So it’s like he compressed the snow to a certain degree that it became really solid,” She explained and smiled at the princess.
“I see,” she replied to the android, who she was done repairing. She placed the equipments meant for repairing away and turned to her. “Repairs are done. I will now visit the girl you brought here.”
Weiss then carefully sat down and stretched her body. “Thank you Ma’am.” She then jumped down the operating table.
The Steel Princess smiled, and that’s all she did. Weiss expected a more proper response, but she received something unexpected in return.
“Visit the office in an hour.”
Weiss nodded, and took leave of the operation theatre. Moments later, she heard an ominous laughter from her employer as she closed the door shut.
“Ahahahaha!! What a coincidence! Truly! A fateful ploy of God. Hahahaha!!”
I’ll… pretend that I didn’t hear that, Weiss thought, walking away.
0
Cinia Pacifica
Ojou-sama Writer
(BGM: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fuedVOp2Feo)
Weiss entered the office room of the Steel Princess, closing the door behind her with a creaking noise. The office was the only clean room in all of the factory. The other rooms would often become dusty relatively fast, the cleaning bots could do only so much. The Steel Princess seemed as expressionless as ever, as though the laughter she heard earlier seemingly an imagination.
“How do you feel now?” she asked to the android that now approached her and knelt before her desk.
“Nothing abnormal at the moment. I did some laps to test it out for a few minutes.” She answered.
“I see,” Steel Princess answered, as if having expected it. “Then… on to your next mission. Are you ready for it? Or shall I perhaps give you some time off?” She asked. Was she in a good mood to offer something such as this? Weiss could only wonder.
“Yes ma’am, I’m ready for the next mission.” Weiss realised that she didn’t have anything to do even when she got the time off.
“Very well,” Steel Princess said, crossing her fingers before her lips. What happened to working as a nurse? But the employed asked nothing of the sort, and only remembered the detail that she did had a profession in the society, a valuable one at that.
“I’d like you to participate in the Queen’s Meeting in my stead,” she started, taking out an envelope. It beared the seal of England’s Royalty, unmistakably. “My proxy will be there to give further instructions when you’ll arrive there, but the most you have to do is act appropriately as my representative.”
“Alright,” Weiss nodded and asked, “Do I need to bring or wear anything specific, ma’am?”
“It is an event distinguishable from most. Every recognized Organization are invited by the Queen. You should dress well lest we be shamed for being absolutely oblivious to the gravity of such occasions,” the employer answered, there might’ve been a slight frown, but Weiss felt that she was imagining it. After all, Steel Princess hardly possessed human qualities as far as she knew.
“Any more inquiries?”
“So, I need to go to England and attend this event, yes? May I ask what kind of event it is, ma’am?”
“Yes, I’ve already made arrangements for you to board the Magical Train,” she said, continuing, “The event is a meeting where the majority of the Organizations are gathered to revise the laws pertaining to the Magic World. New laws may be introduced and debated, old laws may be debated all the same. On that note… your objective is to observe Queen Victoria. Do not attempt to assassinate her; it is impossible for you. However, the proxy may provide you missions based on circumstances; you are to follow her words.”
Okay, looks like I still need to bring my usual suit and weapon. My guess is that there will be a lot of covert op. there, Weiss thought. “What about the proxy? What will she look like and how will she know that I am your substitute, ma’am?”
“Mn…” the Steel Princess pondered how to answer Weiss’ inquiry, “she will come to you and speak your name. While others know you, they only one that know you by your other name, and they wouldn’t know your face. This person knows your real name.”
“Are you sure giving her my real name is safe, ma’am?”
“You will know when you see her. I can guarantee that she isn’t a threat. However, you must protect her.”
“Alright, I might need a map too since It’s been too long since I need to return to England.”
“They are not available in Russia,” the Steel Princess informed, shaking her head. “You will have to gain one in England.”
“Alright ma’am.” She nodded and went silent, waiting for her next instruction.
“I believe that is all?” she asked, the silence gave away that Weiss had no more to ask, so she slipped a parcel towards her. Weiss silently took the package to find the boarding pass to the Magical Train. The train that was said to run across the magical portals and able to lead out of the country covered in mysterious clouds. This was her ticket to London. “You are dismissed.”
Weiss gave a bow before she took leave from the office.
Weiss entered the office room of the Steel Princess, closing the door behind her with a creaking noise. The office was the only clean room in all of the factory. The other rooms would often become dusty relatively fast, the cleaning bots could do only so much. The Steel Princess seemed as expressionless as ever, as though the laughter she heard earlier seemingly an imagination.
“How do you feel now?” she asked to the android that now approached her and knelt before her desk.
“Nothing abnormal at the moment. I did some laps to test it out for a few minutes.” She answered.
“I see,” Steel Princess answered, as if having expected it. “Then… on to your next mission. Are you ready for it? Or shall I perhaps give you some time off?” She asked. Was she in a good mood to offer something such as this? Weiss could only wonder.
“Yes ma’am, I’m ready for the next mission.” Weiss realised that she didn’t have anything to do even when she got the time off.
“Very well,” Steel Princess said, crossing her fingers before her lips. What happened to working as a nurse? But the employed asked nothing of the sort, and only remembered the detail that she did had a profession in the society, a valuable one at that.
“I’d like you to participate in the Queen’s Meeting in my stead,” she started, taking out an envelope. It beared the seal of England’s Royalty, unmistakably. “My proxy will be there to give further instructions when you’ll arrive there, but the most you have to do is act appropriately as my representative.”
“Alright,” Weiss nodded and asked, “Do I need to bring or wear anything specific, ma’am?”
“It is an event distinguishable from most. Every recognized Organization are invited by the Queen. You should dress well lest we be shamed for being absolutely oblivious to the gravity of such occasions,” the employer answered, there might’ve been a slight frown, but Weiss felt that she was imagining it. After all, Steel Princess hardly possessed human qualities as far as she knew.
“Any more inquiries?”
“So, I need to go to England and attend this event, yes? May I ask what kind of event it is, ma’am?”
“Yes, I’ve already made arrangements for you to board the Magical Train,” she said, continuing, “The event is a meeting where the majority of the Organizations are gathered to revise the laws pertaining to the Magic World. New laws may be introduced and debated, old laws may be debated all the same. On that note… your objective is to observe Queen Victoria. Do not attempt to assassinate her; it is impossible for you. However, the proxy may provide you missions based on circumstances; you are to follow her words.”
Okay, looks like I still need to bring my usual suit and weapon. My guess is that there will be a lot of covert op. there, Weiss thought. “What about the proxy? What will she look like and how will she know that I am your substitute, ma’am?”
“Mn…” the Steel Princess pondered how to answer Weiss’ inquiry, “she will come to you and speak your name. While others know you, they only one that know you by your other name, and they wouldn’t know your face. This person knows your real name.”
“Are you sure giving her my real name is safe, ma’am?”
“You will know when you see her. I can guarantee that she isn’t a threat. However, you must protect her.”
“Alright, I might need a map too since It’s been too long since I need to return to England.”
“They are not available in Russia,” the Steel Princess informed, shaking her head. “You will have to gain one in England.”
“Alright ma’am.” She nodded and went silent, waiting for her next instruction.
“I believe that is all?” she asked, the silence gave away that Weiss had no more to ask, so she slipped a parcel towards her. Weiss silently took the package to find the boarding pass to the Magical Train. The train that was said to run across the magical portals and able to lead out of the country covered in mysterious clouds. This was her ticket to London. “You are dismissed.”
Weiss gave a bow before she took leave from the office.
0
Cinia Pacifica
Ojou-sama Writer
(BGM: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-7okDDVJBZ8)
Kazimir opened his eyes. The table laid there, along with few slips of papers and a pen before him. There were light coming in from the window, lights originating from the streets behind him. Indeed, he was back to the office. The same old dirty office. There weren’t many noises today. It was as if the environment was reflecting the failure of their recent operation. Perhaps the morale of his men were low today. The machines didn’t roar as loudly as they usually did for his front business, or so it felt that way.
An illusion – just like the last time – formed before him. A man whose very being was painted blue appeared. It was likely a spiritual apparition, or conjured with magic somehow, as his figure was transparent. Kazimir wasn’t so familiar with magic, but that was the assumption he immediately formed every time he’d see it. His client wore an expensive-looking coat that shined magnificently despite being a see-through illusion.
“What went wrong? Your cargo did not show up as planned,” the man inquired, he didn’t seemed to be particularly sad nor amused.
Kazimir twitched his brow before sighing, “We had troublesome people intercept us on the way.” He answered, leaning back on his chair. “A pair of Riders and a marksman who so happened to be a Time Warrior as well.” A displeased expression was apparent on his face.
“Oh,” the man seemed disappointed at first, but was now a little surprised, “I daresay she is finally trying to take out a big fish that is you? Pardon me for asking, but does she have heterochromia?”
He nodded in confirmation, “Indeed and she was covered in all sorts of mechanical bits, almost like something out of a sci-fi novel.” He responded, cupping his chin in thought. “I’m guessing you know who I faced?”
“Judgement Sniper,” the man replied, smiling, “It is favorable to us if she targets you, if you ask me. You may profit off of it,” he elaborated, “she is an android, likely manufactured by Steel Union’s leader, Steel Princess.”
“Tch.” Kazimir didn’t like this already, anything to do with his powers was always a bad sign. Still, the man had a point, if this android has laid her sights on him, he might as well make the most of the situation. Taking another sigh, he put his hand to his temple, “This probably won’t end well but if the S.U. is forcing my hand then I’ve got no choice.” He declared before looking back to the man. “So? Is that all you came to ask about?”
“Well, now that I know about this, I’d very much love to have you take her down,” answered the man, “We will – of course, as usual – pay handsomely for it. What do you think?”
“Hmph, you can have her,” Kaz responded, "but I'm not going to actively chase someone who'll come to me eventually." He glared down at a stack of papers that was added on his desk earlier, “I’m far too busy.”
“Then how about your usual tasks with the Soviets? We’d actually like you to investigate if they hold ties with the British Indian West Company,” the man begun, “As they say, measure the wits and strength of the enemy before engaging them, yes? We’d very much need to know if that is the case, as that company can be rather dangerous.”
“Oh? That so.” Kazimir said with intrigue, the prospect had his interest to say the least. “Very well then, what leads do you have?” He asked, leaning forward on his table.
“There have been particular transport vehicles sighted leading up to the Soviet base. These Organizations transporting items looks innocent on the outside, but tracing them leads us to almost nothing. Which is rather strange,” the man explained, “not even a mundane company.”
“Since the Soviets are the sole rulers and the state of the country is so desolate, perhaps they don’t care enough to whip up a proper cover, but it is clear that something is amiss.”
“We’ve also caught wind that a rather famous Scholar from the Magic World is conducting experiments in the base somewhere underground. However, it is but a rumour, and needs confirmation. If it is true, however, I fear that the Soviets are constructing monsters beyond human recognition.”
Kazimir only hummed to himself as he contemplated, “It’s no different to what we do here, except they seem to have the luxury of being lazy.” Kazimir commented, sighing to himself as he did. “In any case, these convoys must have a destination, it’s only a matter of tracing it.”
“So we track these vehicles, find out what they’re doing for the Soviets and if they really are doing what you assume?” Kazimir asked the man, expecting an answer he’d like.
“Yes. What we really want to find out is, however, exactly what they are transporting to Soviets. If you’re able to confirm the scholar, we will pay double the money.”
“Heh, fine by me.” Kazimir chuckled, it seemed like a simple enough job though he half expected there to be some sort of complication later on. "What have you got on the scholar?"
“Well, I cannot show anything this way, but we’ll send you a photo in due time.”
“Hmph, very well.” Kazimir hummed, swinging back on his chair. “If that’s all, then I’ll be getting to work now. Send whatever else may be relevant as well.”
“Of course, in due time.”
Kazimir opened his eyes. The table laid there, along with few slips of papers and a pen before him. There were light coming in from the window, lights originating from the streets behind him. Indeed, he was back to the office. The same old dirty office. There weren’t many noises today. It was as if the environment was reflecting the failure of their recent operation. Perhaps the morale of his men were low today. The machines didn’t roar as loudly as they usually did for his front business, or so it felt that way.
An illusion – just like the last time – formed before him. A man whose very being was painted blue appeared. It was likely a spiritual apparition, or conjured with magic somehow, as his figure was transparent. Kazimir wasn’t so familiar with magic, but that was the assumption he immediately formed every time he’d see it. His client wore an expensive-looking coat that shined magnificently despite being a see-through illusion.
“What went wrong? Your cargo did not show up as planned,” the man inquired, he didn’t seemed to be particularly sad nor amused.
Kazimir twitched his brow before sighing, “We had troublesome people intercept us on the way.” He answered, leaning back on his chair. “A pair of Riders and a marksman who so happened to be a Time Warrior as well.” A displeased expression was apparent on his face.
“Oh,” the man seemed disappointed at first, but was now a little surprised, “I daresay she is finally trying to take out a big fish that is you? Pardon me for asking, but does she have heterochromia?”
He nodded in confirmation, “Indeed and she was covered in all sorts of mechanical bits, almost like something out of a sci-fi novel.” He responded, cupping his chin in thought. “I’m guessing you know who I faced?”
“Judgement Sniper,” the man replied, smiling, “It is favorable to us if she targets you, if you ask me. You may profit off of it,” he elaborated, “she is an android, likely manufactured by Steel Union’s leader, Steel Princess.”
“Tch.” Kazimir didn’t like this already, anything to do with his powers was always a bad sign. Still, the man had a point, if this android has laid her sights on him, he might as well make the most of the situation. Taking another sigh, he put his hand to his temple, “This probably won’t end well but if the S.U. is forcing my hand then I’ve got no choice.” He declared before looking back to the man. “So? Is that all you came to ask about?”
“Well, now that I know about this, I’d very much love to have you take her down,” answered the man, “We will – of course, as usual – pay handsomely for it. What do you think?”
“Hmph, you can have her,” Kaz responded, "but I'm not going to actively chase someone who'll come to me eventually." He glared down at a stack of papers that was added on his desk earlier, “I’m far too busy.”
“Then how about your usual tasks with the Soviets? We’d actually like you to investigate if they hold ties with the British Indian West Company,” the man begun, “As they say, measure the wits and strength of the enemy before engaging them, yes? We’d very much need to know if that is the case, as that company can be rather dangerous.”
“Oh? That so.” Kazimir said with intrigue, the prospect had his interest to say the least. “Very well then, what leads do you have?” He asked, leaning forward on his table.
“There have been particular transport vehicles sighted leading up to the Soviet base. These Organizations transporting items looks innocent on the outside, but tracing them leads us to almost nothing. Which is rather strange,” the man explained, “not even a mundane company.”
“Since the Soviets are the sole rulers and the state of the country is so desolate, perhaps they don’t care enough to whip up a proper cover, but it is clear that something is amiss.”
“We’ve also caught wind that a rather famous Scholar from the Magic World is conducting experiments in the base somewhere underground. However, it is but a rumour, and needs confirmation. If it is true, however, I fear that the Soviets are constructing monsters beyond human recognition.”
Kazimir only hummed to himself as he contemplated, “It’s no different to what we do here, except they seem to have the luxury of being lazy.” Kazimir commented, sighing to himself as he did. “In any case, these convoys must have a destination, it’s only a matter of tracing it.”
“So we track these vehicles, find out what they’re doing for the Soviets and if they really are doing what you assume?” Kazimir asked the man, expecting an answer he’d like.
“Yes. What we really want to find out is, however, exactly what they are transporting to Soviets. If you’re able to confirm the scholar, we will pay double the money.”
“Heh, fine by me.” Kazimir chuckled, it seemed like a simple enough job though he half expected there to be some sort of complication later on. "What have you got on the scholar?"
“Well, I cannot show anything this way, but we’ll send you a photo in due time.”
“Hmph, very well.” Kazimir hummed, swinging back on his chair. “If that’s all, then I’ll be getting to work now. Send whatever else may be relevant as well.”
“Of course, in due time.”
0
Cinia Pacifica
Ojou-sama Writer
Svetlana was escorted back home. She was questioned regarding Lily’s whereabouts – upon which she could only look into the streets with dismay – and simply answered them that she lived with her. The men offered to carry Lily into the house, but it was obviously not an option to her, she wouldn’t let her mother see men of Soviet carry a bloodstained Lily into the house. Either way, she’d have to cross the bridge soon.
Lily was taken up by Svetlana as she was dropped off from the vehicle – now back in the city of Moscow – and faced her home. She sighed, and braced herself to deal with her mother. Ideally, she intended to sneak past her, and perhaps hide Lily with a blanket. Svetlana hoped her mother was out shopping. She needed an opportunity to treat Lily’s wounds, after all.
Opening the door, and the closing it as silently, and quickly as possible; she entered the house with Lily barely hanging from her arms. It was hard enough to close the door with a single hand while carrying someone larger and heavier as Lily, but she did it somehow. She tried to move as fast as she could to the bedroom, but Lily’s weight made her look funny instead, as she wobbled across the living room..
“Ah, is that you, Svetlana?” A voice from the kitchen beckoned her with a question. It was unmistakably her mother’s voice, who might’ve noticed Svetlana’s entry into the house from the footsteps. She was indeed making more noises than intended due to her walking strange with a heavy Lily on both her arms.
Svetlana panicked. Hearing her mother’s voice almost made her jump up in a fit of fright. A moment later, she realized that she needed to respond, and quick. “Yes, mama. I am home now! I’ll be heading to the bedroom, I am tired,” she said, trying to get to the bedroom quicker before her mother would see Lily on both her hands.
Her mother walked out of the kitchen to greet her daughter, “Ah, welcome hom-” she said stopping at her words; startled at the sight of her daughter carrying an injured Lily, and almost dropped the spoon she held. “Is that your friend?! What happened to her?!!”
“W-we were attacked by wild animals when we out doing some deliveries to one of the villages near the city,” Svetlana said – lying to her mother – stuttering slightly.
“Don’t tell me… by the werewolves I keep hearing of?” Her mother said, apparently linking the incident to a rumor. “Why are you two doing such unsafe works?!”
“It’s just really difficult to find good job. This one was paying a good amount. We didn’t think we would get attacked, they were just rumors after all.” Svetlana said as she tried using the rumor to her favor.
“There’s no good pay if you lose your life!” Her mother shouted, but then it rang a bell, as if it was a thought she herself didn’t think of. Where was it that she first thought of? A forgotten memory beckoned her, but this wasn’t the time for it, she stopped her mind as she pinched her nose bridge. “Sorry dear, I know that you’re working for us but…” she sighed, and stopped to look down at the poor and injured Lily “Off to the bed she goes.” In the end, both mother and daughter helped Lily get to the bed.
“I’m sorry, mama. I’ll be more careful next time in what I do.” Svetlana said as she undressed Lily to treat her wounds. “Mama, you think you can heat up some hot water?” Svetlana asked as she looked at how bad Lily was injured.
“Yes,” her mother nodded, going off to head up some water. Svetlana looked over Lily’s wounds. She found slash marks from around her shoulders, down to her chest, and then to her stomach. There were also some small hole-like wounds, likely resulted from gunshots. When she touched her, she squealed unconsciously. She was awfully cold, but was still alive.
“Idiot, you should’ve come with me instead.” Svetlana said in a low voice as she tried cleaning Lily’s wounds.
“Daddy…” Lily faintly called out after minutes. A tear crossing by her ear. She continued to wail silently, all the while her face frowned to no end, apparently the pain was very stinging.
Hearing Lily say †˜daddy’ caught Svetlana’s attention, but looking at Lily’s face made it apparent that Lily was liking not seeing a good dream. However, Svetlana still had a task to do rather than indulge in idle thinking regarding Lily’s dreams.
Svetlana fetched a bottle from one of her shelves on the other side of the room. Shelves containing more of her magical tools that her mother had no knowledge of. A drop from said bottle caused the sealed magic in the liquid to activate, and it danced over her palm. She swiftly manipulated it by applying some of her mana on it, and had them seeped into her gunshot wounds, soon extracting the embedded bullets from the wailing Lily.
“Please… don’t… abandon me…” the words came out from her despite the painful feelings her body may have experienced, as if her dream had turned into a nightmare the moment she began her treatment on Lily. It seemed that her nightmares continued even now.
“Lily…” Svetlana thoughtlessly spoke. She did all she could for her comrade, even as far as applying some expensive magical medicines on Lily. She could only wait for Lily to recover in time now, and eventually wake up.
Lily was taken up by Svetlana as she was dropped off from the vehicle – now back in the city of Moscow – and faced her home. She sighed, and braced herself to deal with her mother. Ideally, she intended to sneak past her, and perhaps hide Lily with a blanket. Svetlana hoped her mother was out shopping. She needed an opportunity to treat Lily’s wounds, after all.
Opening the door, and the closing it as silently, and quickly as possible; she entered the house with Lily barely hanging from her arms. It was hard enough to close the door with a single hand while carrying someone larger and heavier as Lily, but she did it somehow. She tried to move as fast as she could to the bedroom, but Lily’s weight made her look funny instead, as she wobbled across the living room..
“Ah, is that you, Svetlana?” A voice from the kitchen beckoned her with a question. It was unmistakably her mother’s voice, who might’ve noticed Svetlana’s entry into the house from the footsteps. She was indeed making more noises than intended due to her walking strange with a heavy Lily on both her arms.
Svetlana panicked. Hearing her mother’s voice almost made her jump up in a fit of fright. A moment later, she realized that she needed to respond, and quick. “Yes, mama. I am home now! I’ll be heading to the bedroom, I am tired,” she said, trying to get to the bedroom quicker before her mother would see Lily on both her hands.
Her mother walked out of the kitchen to greet her daughter, “Ah, welcome hom-” she said stopping at her words; startled at the sight of her daughter carrying an injured Lily, and almost dropped the spoon she held. “Is that your friend?! What happened to her?!!”
“W-we were attacked by wild animals when we out doing some deliveries to one of the villages near the city,” Svetlana said – lying to her mother – stuttering slightly.
“Don’t tell me… by the werewolves I keep hearing of?” Her mother said, apparently linking the incident to a rumor. “Why are you two doing such unsafe works?!”
“It’s just really difficult to find good job. This one was paying a good amount. We didn’t think we would get attacked, they were just rumors after all.” Svetlana said as she tried using the rumor to her favor.
“There’s no good pay if you lose your life!” Her mother shouted, but then it rang a bell, as if it was a thought she herself didn’t think of. Where was it that she first thought of? A forgotten memory beckoned her, but this wasn’t the time for it, she stopped her mind as she pinched her nose bridge. “Sorry dear, I know that you’re working for us but…” she sighed, and stopped to look down at the poor and injured Lily “Off to the bed she goes.” In the end, both mother and daughter helped Lily get to the bed.
“I’m sorry, mama. I’ll be more careful next time in what I do.” Svetlana said as she undressed Lily to treat her wounds. “Mama, you think you can heat up some hot water?” Svetlana asked as she looked at how bad Lily was injured.
“Yes,” her mother nodded, going off to head up some water. Svetlana looked over Lily’s wounds. She found slash marks from around her shoulders, down to her chest, and then to her stomach. There were also some small hole-like wounds, likely resulted from gunshots. When she touched her, she squealed unconsciously. She was awfully cold, but was still alive.
“Idiot, you should’ve come with me instead.” Svetlana said in a low voice as she tried cleaning Lily’s wounds.
“Daddy…” Lily faintly called out after minutes. A tear crossing by her ear. She continued to wail silently, all the while her face frowned to no end, apparently the pain was very stinging.
Hearing Lily say †˜daddy’ caught Svetlana’s attention, but looking at Lily’s face made it apparent that Lily was liking not seeing a good dream. However, Svetlana still had a task to do rather than indulge in idle thinking regarding Lily’s dreams.
Svetlana fetched a bottle from one of her shelves on the other side of the room. Shelves containing more of her magical tools that her mother had no knowledge of. A drop from said bottle caused the sealed magic in the liquid to activate, and it danced over her palm. She swiftly manipulated it by applying some of her mana on it, and had them seeped into her gunshot wounds, soon extracting the embedded bullets from the wailing Lily.
“Please… don’t… abandon me…” the words came out from her despite the painful feelings her body may have experienced, as if her dream had turned into a nightmare the moment she began her treatment on Lily. It seemed that her nightmares continued even now.
“Lily…” Svetlana thoughtlessly spoke. She did all she could for her comrade, even as far as applying some expensive magical medicines on Lily. She could only wait for Lily to recover in time now, and eventually wake up.
0
Claudia – now on her way home – was with the Duke. Today too, unlike any other day – or rather, an evening – was no different. She was to escort her lord from the parliamentary to their lodgings in Holborn. The Duke didn’t speak a word. It was frustrating to her. Why would he not criticise her foolishness? Why would he not question her actions? Why would he not talk to her at all? Was this a punishment in itself?
The buildings shifted by as the gurney crossed past countless establishments across the street. New Worlders found this ordinary, as did Claudia, but it was a sight almost new to the Duke most likely. He was a person who was raised in England, after all. However, that’s all she could wonder about, the Duke’s background. There was an unbreakable silence floating adrift the air, and she’d have to find a good excuse – or a reason – to break it.
“My Lord,” Claudia called out, tone clear and collected. “Was your day eventful?” she asked, expecting the Duke to reprimand her from earlier at some point, but for some reason he didn’t so soon. She supposed speaking at all would hasten the process as she would want it done already.
“...” The Duke didn’t respond to her. He looked towards the window instead, as if ignoring her.
Claudia took notice to his aloofness and cast her eyes low, as if grimacing over what she had done. She was hesitant to speak in this dense silence but did so anyways. “...I made two friends today. They were an otherworldly bunch, but at the same time, they were interesting,” she said, casually ignoring the cringeworthy silence.
“I see. Did you have fun?” the Duke asked, apparently finally speaking up, but still not looking at her.
Claudia nodded, though her face was void of the smile that was supposed to be there. She was happy of her feat today but did not outwardly show it due to the current situation. “Yes, I did...making new friends after a long time of being secluded, it was nice.” Claudia responded, striking a vague smirk from the side of her lips. “Thank you… for asking,” she said melancholically.
“I see. Nice. It must be very nice,” he said, repeating a word, but he stopped.
Claudia wanted to say more about her day but only the good parts. She knew, without a doubt, that word traveled back to the Duke; his unusual silence spoke in a sense that Claudia immediately understood. “My Lord, I’ve… I’ve done wrong, today,” she confessed, knowing that the Duke was already aware. “...I’m aware you know of this, but why? Why are you not speaking to me? Is this your way of punishing me? If not, then please, I beg of you, do not make me wait,” Claudia urged, tensing up.
“Leave that topic till you’re done driving,” the Duke replied in his usual tone, sighing. Perhaps he wasn’t really sure what to say about her so-dubbed †˜wrong.’
Claudia clicked her tongue, grimacing that the Duke could be so subtle and passive about this. She had to comply either way; she wasn't one to disobey the Duke of all people. “Tch...yes, my Lord…” Claudia growled before keeping her eyes on the road. The girl didn't even want to continue the conversation any longer as he did not seem to be in a mood to speak anyways.
The buildings shifted by as the gurney crossed past countless establishments across the street. New Worlders found this ordinary, as did Claudia, but it was a sight almost new to the Duke most likely. He was a person who was raised in England, after all. However, that’s all she could wonder about, the Duke’s background. There was an unbreakable silence floating adrift the air, and she’d have to find a good excuse – or a reason – to break it.
“My Lord,” Claudia called out, tone clear and collected. “Was your day eventful?” she asked, expecting the Duke to reprimand her from earlier at some point, but for some reason he didn’t so soon. She supposed speaking at all would hasten the process as she would want it done already.
“...” The Duke didn’t respond to her. He looked towards the window instead, as if ignoring her.
Claudia took notice to his aloofness and cast her eyes low, as if grimacing over what she had done. She was hesitant to speak in this dense silence but did so anyways. “...I made two friends today. They were an otherworldly bunch, but at the same time, they were interesting,” she said, casually ignoring the cringeworthy silence.
“I see. Did you have fun?” the Duke asked, apparently finally speaking up, but still not looking at her.
Claudia nodded, though her face was void of the smile that was supposed to be there. She was happy of her feat today but did not outwardly show it due to the current situation. “Yes, I did...making new friends after a long time of being secluded, it was nice.” Claudia responded, striking a vague smirk from the side of her lips. “Thank you… for asking,” she said melancholically.
“I see. Nice. It must be very nice,” he said, repeating a word, but he stopped.
Claudia wanted to say more about her day but only the good parts. She knew, without a doubt, that word traveled back to the Duke; his unusual silence spoke in a sense that Claudia immediately understood. “My Lord, I’ve… I’ve done wrong, today,” she confessed, knowing that the Duke was already aware. “...I’m aware you know of this, but why? Why are you not speaking to me? Is this your way of punishing me? If not, then please, I beg of you, do not make me wait,” Claudia urged, tensing up.
“Leave that topic till you’re done driving,” the Duke replied in his usual tone, sighing. Perhaps he wasn’t really sure what to say about her so-dubbed †˜wrong.’
Claudia clicked her tongue, grimacing that the Duke could be so subtle and passive about this. She had to comply either way; she wasn't one to disobey the Duke of all people. “Tch...yes, my Lord…” Claudia growled before keeping her eyes on the road. The girl didn't even want to continue the conversation any longer as he did not seem to be in a mood to speak anyways.