Descendants of Time (Role-Play Act 5: Revolutionary Moment)

(BGM: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0JAXfUKb30k)

Aramus and Elizabeth soon joined the group after leaving the hotel they had stayed in. They then traveled to a different location which – according to the Duchess – was a place reserved by them. Magic was used to make every security camera useless. The mundanes were hypnotized, so that they wouldn’t approach the entire establishment anymore. A few were assigned to guard the premises just in case.

The Duchess, Aramus, and Takeru sat across a table, but with most of the members behind them.

“Alright, let us begin,” Takeru said, prompting the Duchess to begin her speech.

“As you know it, the groups are divided between: Team A, B, and C. We are Team B and C here. We had Team B take control of this building, and they’re going to be relaying any relevant information to us, and Team A. As Team C, we’ll be heading out soon, leaving Team B here,” the Duchess begun.

“Team B has a Scrying Surface up in here, yes?” Takeru asked, curious.

“Indeed they do, it is operated by Miss Mathilde here,” the Duchess answered, motioning her hand towards the person who had just walked in sloppily, apparently coming down here from her Scrying Surface.

Mathilde smiled, making an exaggerated salute. Was her face red just now, for some reason?

“Moving on,” the Duchess said, “Team A – lead by the members of the squadron that had previously fought with our target, the Time Warrior – has decided that they will take a rough tactic for this…”

“They intend to cast the Overcast Thunderstorm spell,” Takeru added after the Duchess stopped.

“If that is what they decide is best. I could always use a little bit more wind and lightning,” Aramus said with a wink. Inwardly, he was still stewing about the other members withholding information.

“Those spells would indeed work in our favour, Mister Valmark.” The Duchess gave a nod, smiling. “Especially for those using the forms: Aurum and Aquam.”

Takeru adjusted his glasses. “Considering the visibility however… it is a double-edged sword, I would think. But perhaps it is for the best. It might be a little tricky for me, in fact.”

Aramus waved his hand dismissively. “If Team A is deciding upon this strategy, they should have the necessary preparations for all of us. That… raincoat spell should work fine for visibility and preventing our own from getting wet. Wouldn’t want to fry any of you by accident now.”

“Indeed, I wouldn’t want friendly fire, either.” Takeru nodded deeply. It’d be regretful to crush the head of a friend. “Albeit, it might be a bit too much to ask for all of us to be enchanted with said spell.”

“And I know you’re perfectly capable of that, poor apple. So, does anyone here know that particular spell? It’s for the benefit of the group as a whole.” Aramus chuckled as he asked the people around him.

“Umm, I can help with that,” a student from his own class came out of the crowd and spoke up, raising his hand. “But please let me just stay outside the battlefield in exchange.” Aramus noted that the boy’s legs were shaking. The spell was indeed handy, but it wouldn’t be so useful in a storm of such a calibre, yet it was better than nothing.

Aramus whistled, one of his own batch proving to be useful? This was something. “I don’t see a problem with that. If you are unable to battle, find a way to support us as best you can.” Aramus did raise an eyebrow at the boy’s attitude but it was to be expected against a Time Warrior. “Does anyone else within the group share the same opinion as my dear student?”

Aramus didn’t get any †˜yes’ he could be sure of, not with the aversion of gazes anyway.

“I suppose it is alright as long as someone can do it,” Takeru said, giving a forced smile.

“Here’s the real deal… I want you two to stall the Time Warrior,” the Duchess said, continuing the planning session, facing Takeru and Aramus solemnly. “It’ll take time for me to cast my spell.”

Aramus gave a nonchalant shrug. “Not my problem everyone wants to die,” he muttered under his breath and then louder: “I’ll try my best to do so or at least, die trying. Let’s hope it doesn’t come down to that, Duchess. We can’t have our competition that way.” He grinned at her, eyes full of mischief.

“This may sound insulting to Team A, but I’m afraid I cannot rely on their straight-forward attack tactic with the aid of just a storm,” the Duchess begun, looking down at the map laid out for them over the table. “I am going to summon Neptune’s Wrath. It will take some time to cast, however, the tide should not only make it far more effective a battlefield for an Aquam user such as myself, but it would also help to wipe out potential help that would arrive for the Time Warrior from the Japanese Government. Water isn’t so good for electronics, yes? This – along with the storm – would wipe out their communication lines, I hope. I may be underestimating their technology, however.”

Aramus nodded slowly before opening his mouth to speak. “I’m afraid modern electronics might come with some water proofing so it might take more than that to prevent such things from coming to pass. I’ll help where I can with my own spells. See how much voltage they can take.” A quick smirk and spark from his fingertips accentuated his point. It went without saying that failure on anybody’s part would be a failure for the entire team, especially with the stakes this high.

“This is true,” Takeru said, seemingly glum. “But it would be a big hindrance nonetheless, so I like this idea. Even if they are aware of the situation; we’re at an advantage as long as they’re unable to take proper action.”

“And with that in mind… who wants to supply me some mana for my ritual spell?” the Duchess asked, turning to the others. It didn’t take even a moment for a couple of members to raise their hands. Popularity was one thing that could get followers and helpers any day for the Duchess.

“If you’ll excuse me Duchess, I will need a word with a few of them.” Aramus snapped his fingers, getting out of his chair. “Students, please gather. Whether or not you are one of mine does not matter.” Likely, they hadn’t seen this side of Aramus for there was no need at the academy.

The students gathered, somewhat reluctantly, the other members of the teaching staff were few, grouped with the ones summoned from England. It seemed like most of the forces of the teams were made from students. Were they that short on magicians for battle?

His face twitched as it took in the number of students and anger silently bubbled within him. Aramus pushed it back down, both the anger and pity. “I’m not going to call you out for earlier, you know who you are. This operation is of utmost importance, I’m sure that’s why you students are here.” He took a breath, looking across the numerous faces.

“The battle will be fierce and many of you will fall. This is not my class anymore, failure is not a trip to the infirmary and for you to laugh about afterwards. There will come a time in the battle that it will be too much and if you think you cannot handle it, pull back.” Aramus looked pointedly at Elizabeth as he said this, for once not the bumbling teacher he was in school. “You are all mages, you know what it means to be one. I understand the prestige is alluring but do not forget the families that you have as well. It will not help when you are dead.”

Aramus folded his hands behind his back as he paced in front of the students. “Nonetheless, I applaud you for joining us today. Courage, pride, all your emotions. They do not matter on the battlefield. You fight to win, and winning is living. If that means the death of your enemies, then so be it. That is all, you have your orders so get to it.”

“...Yeees,” some of them replied lazily, as if reluctantly. No, it was definitely reluctant. Aramus was used to these kind of replies. The students moved back to their place, only Elizabeth standing as they left.

“Yes, teacher,” she sincerely said, but it seemed like she wouldn’t turn away without a fight. Which was likely fine.

Aramus said nothing as he turned away from her but accepted her words with a quick nod. Experiencing it first hand was always the best way. How many would live to tell the tale would be another thing altogether. He pulled his chair and sat down, leaning on the table. “I pity them.” He said softly, watching as the students got ready.

As Aramus came back, he found the Duchess speaking on the phone.

“Yes, I see… very well. Understood,” she said, momentarily putting the phone down.

“Alright, ladies and gentlemen,” she started, getting off her chair. “I bid you all cast aside your fear and take up your courage. Team A have just now informed me that they successfully begun their raid on the Time Warrior. In this operation, we’re referring to her as Sagittarius. Obvious name, yes? Then I suppose you realise what we’re dealing with here. Team A has also cast their ritual spell, but it is only taking shape at the moment. Unfortunately for them, they have taken some damage already.”

“...Just so you know,” Takeru interrupted, “it takes courage to call it quits and give up on glory for now too. Please turn back and leave this to us adults if you understand that you cannot continue your participation in this operation, as Valmark sensei said.”

Aramus laughed at Takeru’s words, adding in a few of his own. “You live, we take down Sagittarius. Everyone’s happy, maybe minus a few limbs and other parts, but still.”

“The remainder of Team A will join us as we make way for our target, Sagittarius. The spell casting of Neptune’s Wrath shall be carried out by me here. In other words, we’re going to be splitting up right now. Team B will stay here, and will relay information when necessary. I shall stay with Miss Mathilde as I cast my spell. I will need members of Team B to supply me some mana for the ritual spell, as mentioned earlier. Mister Takeru, Mister Valmark, till I get to the site, I will leave command to you two. Make use of it however you will, I trust that you two will make sensible decisions in my absence,” the Duchess declared.

“I will do my best,” Takeru said, giving a light bow. Aramus bowed as well, no one noticing as he grinned ferally in that posture.

“Are we all on the same page?” The Duchess looked from left to right to confirm the determined expressions of her peers. “Very well. I hereby declare the commencement of the operation!”

Leaving the Duchess behind, the group, Team C detached from Team B. Most of the members of Team B would likely be working with both information relaying through magical channels set for communication via Arcane Connections, and supplying mana for the ritual spell the Duchess planned to cast. The Duchess intended to go over to the site after she finished. She’d likely appear with a few escorts to the battlefield.

Aramus, Takeru, and the others leapt through buildings and structures. Based on their observations, the storm seemed to have not done much to the citizens of Japanese. When Aramus looked down, he found that some structures could actually generate special force fields meant to deflect rain specifically. Who knew what those fields could withstand beyond rain? However, the storm was still fierce enough to make the pedestrians retreat to the buildings. The lightings illuminated the city almost ceaselessly, he wondered if the Duchess’ spell would be a waste of precious mana.

Takeru picked up his phone, and noted that the network was likely too bad for call use, and put it away. He then placed his hand on his ear, he was likely being conveyed a message through a magical channel.

Aramus could feel a voice coming to his ear too. He placed a hand on his ear to block out the excessive noise of the storm’s rain and thunder.

“Team A managed to take care of the Japanese forces that tried to protect the Time Warrior. There may still be some of them out there. Be on alert!” the voice said, and soon the transmission ended.

“Seems like they’re really setting up the stage for us,” Takeru commented, a smirk growing on his face. He was somewhat glad that the students behind him couldn’t see it. Then again, the visibility had already dropped in the storm. It’d be harder than usual to see it from the back.

“At least there’s some competent ones in there, eh?” Aramus said, joining his compatriot in the rain. He looked up and around them, noting the force fields and wondered if they had a personal version. Those would be convenient. “This mission smells like bad news, I hope its enough for the Duchess.”

“I would hope so,” Takeru replied, bringing back his usual smile. “The Japanese aren’t stupid, and it is a little too soon to say that we’ve got the Time Warrior cornered as Team A put it on their report.”

“I wouldn’t believe a word they say until confirming it myself. That double entendre though,” Aramus said, laughing. “Boasting about oneself is no good, Mikaido sensei.”

“We’re Magic Magisters, so we’re often excused for a little bit of boasting, are we not?” Takeru replied, chuckling. “I have to say, we’re lucky to have the Duchess around. I wouldn’t want the entire planning going through the spy team’s remnants, however harsh that sounds.”

“Indeed we are. A Magister has to count for something.” Aramus said before looking ahead, still grumbling to himself. “I’ll chew what's left of them after this operation.”

The team then made way, following the given coordinates to find their target.

After half an hour, another transmission took place.

“The location is confirmed. The coordinates are updated on the map,” the voice informed, speaking out the precise coordinates for them to follow on the map. “This is where the Time Warrior was supposed to be cornered. They have finally lured her there.”

“Understood,” Takeru responded.

The transmission ended once again.

“If it went as planned as it said… the Time Warrior should be in a place full of small buildings. We’d have alleys and other houses for cover, however crude it sounds.”

“All is going to change once that big wave the Duchess is preparing comes in. Let’s not count on that. It’ll have to do for now.”

“It should be flooding the streets. Which is an advantage if you think about what we we’re dealing with. It’d be definitely harder to maintain a position to attack, especially if Sagittarius is a ranged warrior as I’ve heard before.”

“Oh, she is? Interesting. Time to put these to the test then.” Aramus clenched both fists, a current of wind surrounding them. “I have a little surprise later.”

“I look forward to it.”

Tonight, Sherlock was back to his job. His usual job of watching over the Lorelei.

The apparent young girl going across the heart of the prosperous capital of Britain – London – to sing in an old language most were no longer taught of, was basically the Lorelei. She’d only ever sing. No one knew where she came from. No one knew her parents. No one knew if she was even human. They say that she was an android secretly commissioned by the secretive Organization – The Society. They say that the girl was a manifestation of a phenomena even the Magic World knew not how to explain. They say that she sings of the future. They say that her listeners are bound to meet misfortune.

Was it really true that no one knew of her origins?

Was it really true that no one knew what she was?

One could only speculate.

Tonight, the night was cold and the air was chilly. It was strange. Sherlock had observed the girl alone for so many days, but only tonight did he feel somewhat lonely. Two nights ago a woman named Claudia was sent to observe the girl alongside him by The Society. An apparent mage sent to †˜guard’ him, and the Lorelei, in worst case scenarios.

The next night, the lady didn’t appear. It was the same for tonight. For a guard she sure takes a lot of vacation time.

“Seems like a lonely night,” an unfamiliar voice spoke from behind Sherlock, and he turned to find a man he’d never met before.

There weren’t many people that knew Sherlock, and even less people who knew where he worked. Under normal circumstances he’d have tried to pin down the unknown presence, but he had a feeling that he should be a bit more cautious.

“So it is. Did you need something from me, gentleman?”

“Tonight, I’ll substitute for Claudia. I apologise for the incompetence of my subordinate,” the man replied, standing beside Sherlock to watch over the Lorelei now.

“I see, I suppose that makes you her mentor then. I accept your apology, but while her actions were nothing short of life-threatening, it seems she was ill-informed. Will you be taking her place for the remainder of the case, or rather, observations?”

“Ill-informed, you say?” the man asked, slightly puzzled, then continued on to answer the main question. “Unfortunately, I will not be able to do that. This is mostly her mission, and she will have to get back to it when she feels like it. I will join you indefinitely till she comes back out of her own volition.”

“Evidently she was not briefed about the Lorelei, nor of myself, so I had to take some roundabout measures to understand her position. Nonetheless, I’m pleased to have you. As I have told your pupil, there may come a time when I will need your aid, but until that time comes, I do expect you to follow my lead and be very discreet. This is, of course, an observation. No more, no less.”

“Indeed. I will do my best to meet your expectations,” the man said, giving a respectable bow. He seemed to be a class apart from Claudia. “It seems like Mister Griswold was playing his own form of joke with my subordinate. I am ashamed to learn that you had to take such measures. Please forgive my subordinate.”

Sherlock pondered at the thought. It seemed strange that an old man would be up to such tricks, but Sherlock had seen stranger things. More importantly, he could not help but feel that in spite of the man’s relation with the fresh novice Claudia, this man was something of another league. He had the presence of a veteran. Was it his imagination?

“Pay no heed, all is forgiven. I am not one to dwell on simple formalities anyways. I will ask you though, if the situation takes a turn for the worst, what can I expect of you? I must know, to some extent, what you are capable of so that I may assess the situation that much quicker.”

“I suppose my credentials would be enough? I was formerly a Magic Magister,” the man answered, confident. “I am also employed by The Society to do one specific job often: kill,” he added, smiling.

Magic Magister?! Claudia is under someone with this kind of power? This man is mysterious and dangerous in many more ways than one, Sherlock thought. “I will take your word for it. Your level tone and calm composure tells me enough to ascertain my preconceptions of you and your veteran nature. I trust that you will do an excellent job if and when your services are required. Do you have any questions about the mission?”

“I am glad to have won your trust,” the man said, sounding happy and honoured. “I will serve whenever required, please give the signal, or the word, however you wish. I have only one question: do you want me to kill, or simply obstruct any observers foreign to the Lorelei? I have heard that you are also meant to keep away people unrelated to the mission.”

“The mission is to investigate any movement in regards to the Lorelei. I do not engage any suspects unless absolutely necessary. In fact, if there are other observers, it is better to keep track of them than to kill them. Find the trunk of the tree by following its roots and where its nutrients grow. To answer your question though, we must keep a close distance enough to close the gap and interfere if the Lorelei were in imminent danger. It is better to avoid bloodshed in this case.”

“Affirmative, I will be as discreet as possible,” the man answered, nodding. “I shall make note of that. Do you think an introduction is required? I am rather uncertain if it is the kind of job you’d want people to not know each other. Not that I mind introducing myself.”

“My work requires me to be rather confidential, my apologies. However, it would be rude not to introduce myself in some manner. You may call me Escott. It is late into the conversation, but I am pleased to make your acquaintance.”

“Understood. Call me Agent John, then. Just John is, of course, fine. That is my epithet for work,” the man replied, introducing himself. “It is a pleasure to meet you, too.”

Sherlock nodded, he understood how important these things could mean. “Well, if you have no further questions Agent John, I’d say it’s about time to relocate. We will need to be in a better position to observe the Lorelei. Feel free to ask questions as the night goes on.”

Sherlock motioned for the man to follow him through the shadows. “By the way, how much do you know about the Lorelei? I assume you are more informed than the young lady.”

As John moved along with Sherlock, he took out a cape from behind his coat and held it. “As far as I am aware; the Lorelei is a project of experimental nature to The Society. There are many rumours surrounding the girl. It is unfortunate that Claudia doesn’t know. I’d have thought she heard the rumours, at least.”

Sherlock mulled over the man’s words. While simple, down the road, knowing that she was an †˜experimental project’ could go a long way. The issue could not be pressed though, not here.

“A shame really, but at the very least, it was interesting to talk with her that night. Do you understand any of the words the Lorelei is saying? I am not too well versed in what I assume to be an ancient language, but Claudia seemed to have a rudimentary grasp of it.” Sherlock decided he may as well ask.

“I can say that the words ring familiar, but unfortunately, I haven’t used Latin in so long that I’ve forgotten,” John answered, shaking his head. “However, I can inform you that she sings in Latin.”

“I see. The tune she sings is rather strange, and after all of this observation it is irksome to know that I understand none of it. Perhaps, it will come to you as the hours go by.”

“I would hope so,” John replied. He truly hoped so, but felt that it may never come to him. “I suppose I should be more discreet now.” John’s body turned into that of a black raven as soon as he donned the coat he took out moments ago. “Now it’d seem as though you are alone, when in fact you aren’t,” a slightly-distinctive voice spoke, but Sherlock could still find its resemblance with the original voice of John.

Sherlock could never quite shake the initial shock of seeing magic. He’d grown used to it, but at the same time, it was simply not native to him. The fact that John was now a bird was just something he would need to accept.

“I-Impressive…” Sherlock muttered. “More importantly, what were you saying? Tell me, what do you see?” Sherlocked whispered, unsure of whether John was communicating through telepathy or not. Either why, he assumed that his words would reach him one way or another.

“You must not be familiar with magecraft, my bad,” John said, surprised by the amount of shock Escott here seemed to be feeling. “I see a man other than myself walking? Albeit it is much easier to see the surroundings now. I was saying that now one wouldn’t know that you have company, save for the more attentive magicians.”

“This is hardly a secret worth hiding, but my knowledge and exposure to magecraft is rather sparse. I doubt I will get used to humans turning into other creatures any time soon. For now just keep an eye on her and the surroundings. I get the feeling that you’ll be far more helpful than an average guard. I thank you in advance.”

“Why, I am happy to be of service,” the raven spoke, again sounding happy. “If you’d like, I can take a better position away from you to observe. However, I’d think that you need viable communication for keeping things in proper motion. In such a case; I’d recommend leaving an Arcane Connection to you, so that I am able to whisper words to you from a distance.”

“An Arcane Connection? Sure. I’ll leave the distance you travel up to you, but stay close enough to respond to danger if something is to happen. Most importantly, make sure you don’t attract too much attention.”

The agent flapped his wing, and a black feather dropped to Sherlock’s hand. “That will let me have an Arcane Connection to you. Worry not, being a raven is precisely done to avoid attention. I will report anyone approaching our dear Lorelei here. Perhaps we can talk too, if you’re bored.”

“So long as the mission comes first,” Sherlock said. “ I must say that I would indeed fancy a conversation. Besides, a civil exchange between two men who have blood on their hands is a rare thing. Anything you’d like to talk about in particular?”

“Mnm… there isn’t much to speak of outside politics in my case. Pardon me, I work with the society in my mundane life,” the man answered. Sherlock couldn’t tell if he was smiling, but assumed that he was from the tone. “Have you heard of the recent renovation plans for the entirety of Britain? It seems that the Queen is finally turning her gaze to the poor living places of the commoners.”

“Indeed I have. The Queen been pushing her power around recently, and seems especially strict about improving the quality of life and security for citizens. Bold moves, though I would suspect the Parliament will take steps to slow her down. I find her actions naive, but idealistic.”

“Absolutely. The Parliament wouldn’t want the Queen to over-spend, despite understanding her point of view,” the raven replied in agreement. “I wouldn’t use a †˜but’ there. Haha. I find her dangerous. She is clearly aware of our Society, and is willing to take actions. It is a little irritable considering how she kills two birds with one stone, every time.”

“If she understands the Society then she also understands how much she is dealing with. She’s a threat, no doubt, but her naivety may cause her to bite more than she can chew. She hasn’t pointed her sword towards me yet, nor does she have a reason to. Someone like you has likely caught her eye though I assume?”

“She definitely understands. However, I am curious as to know exactly †˜what’ you find naive. There aren’t many things for the leader to do other than work for their people tirelessly… or be greedy and arrogant,” the raven said, sounding very curious. “Considering my position, I’d doubt not that she has a keen attention upon me. However, I feel that a famous person such as you would probably be under her eyes… ah, pardon me if I’ve said too much.”

“Every leader that leads is naive in one way or another. Such is their job, that is why people follow them. She is idealistic and that is why she is able to work for her country in such a way. However, there is no such thing as a perfect nation as even the best will crumble under its own weight. Mind you, I did not say being naive is a bad thing, in fact it’s probably good, but she may pay for it in spades one day.

“And I may be †˜famous’, but my actions are sporadic and linear. Even if there are people with their eyes on me, I doubt I am threatening anyone.”

“Hmm… I see. Well, I am not surprised. We revolutionise, and the luddites show up. For every good thing comes a bad, and in that manner I can see a country crumbling as easily as it stands. I appreciate your view, perhaps we’ll get along just fine.”

“I would hope so. I am most surprised that you do not find my notions more appalling. Naturally, this line of thinking can be rather radical in regards to a governing system. However, that’s what makes the Society powerful. It’s old, and it has lasted because it is fluid. It doesn’t need to please anyone. The citizen-loving Queen has already been forced to go to war. The crack in the ice can only get worse. I’d be careful if I were in your position though.”

“It needs to only please its members. I think in that regard our society is successful,” the raven said, as if providing a shedding light to the matter, albeit he assumed that Sherlock had already implied it himself. “Unfortunately, yes, she was forced to war. The members of the Magic World are a rather erratic mob at times, when it concerns the Descendants.”

“Just what is a Descendent? I understand the concept, but I do not quite understand their purpose. They seem arbitrary, and their magic seems to surpass even that of the magic that I have seen, heard, and read about in the Society. I find their disproportionate power rather strange.”

“Who knows?” the Raven said, unsure himself. “What we know is that they exist, and they are exceptionally powerful. All other information comes from a prophecy; about how they will bring the world to ruin eventually if they are allowed to live.”

“What a ridiculous notion that we must accept. You would think we would have moved on from prophecies after several thousand years, and yet here we are, and we have no choice but to accept. Their powers must come from somewhere, it is too bad that we, or at least I, cannot challenge the one behind it all. Challenging god-like entities sounds like a rather grand tale to tell grandchildren; I would be the greatest of grandfathers.” Sherlock let out a small huff of laughter.

“Well, after what happened to three countries – including our great Britain – we of the Magic World had no choice but to come to terms with what words that were left behind for us,” the Raven stated. “There are a few that have challenged and won, but the battles were always won with brains and numbers. Blood too, perhaps. Ever heard the famous tale of the Duchess who slayed a Time Warrior? It was quite recent, around thirty-something years.”

“Enlighten me. I’ve heard the name, but only in passing by. The history of the Magic World is a slow process of seeping through what is written in books. And as you know, that is not exactly effective especially for the history of magic.”

“Her name was Caroline Louisa Cavendish Bentinck. Surely you’ve heard of her? She is a skilled mage who managed to cull the head of Sagittarius, last I heard. She is now known as a Magic Magister who often publishes monthly reports on her research. Apparently she tries to develop ways for magic to be used for combat more effectively.”

“Indeed, I’ve heard of her name. In fact, it’s very hard to not know her name. How did she do it though? From what I understand, these Descendents are all but invincible. I suspect one could sap the magic from Descendents, as you could with any magician, but not even an amateur mage is going to hold still for very long. And I assume a magic bombardment is not sufficient otherwise these Descendents would not be a problem to begin with.”

“As far as I know, Descendants do not utilize magic to begin with,” the agent stated in a matter of factly manner. “The problem with the Descendants is that you cannot kill them unless time around them is stopped. There are only few able to cast the special spell invented to stop time for a very small targeted space.”

“What? They do not use magic? That is both incredible and rather unbelievable. It’s hard for me to imagine that their powers are not some kind of derivative of magic, but I have no basis so I will trust you on the matter for now. Nonetheless, you are saying that the Duchess was able to stop time as well as kill the Descendent?”

“Yes, the Dukes and Duchesses – as well as some masters of magic – are taught the special spell that allows this feat. As for the Descendants, their powers are spiritual in nature, hence not magical.”

“It seems I have much to learn. As for this †˜special spell’, I wonder if this has something to do with a plan. Does it not seem strange that these high ranking mages have a coveted spell that is strong enough to stop a Descendent? Perhaps it’s a counter-measure for these irregular beings known as Descendents. And on that note, that means the Descendents must serve some kind of inherent function.” Sherlock’s voice trailed off in thought before returning to his normal tone. “Ah, I must be boring you with my baseless conjectures. I go off on tangents rather often, so I apologise in advance.”

“Ah, no. It is an interesting topic. I seldom find anyone willing to engage in such topics rather than speaking to those who vow to slay them down,” John said with a chuckle. “I do not find it strange in the sense that they are better off taught to a select trusted few, since these spells may be used to distort the world’s balance and are thus abusable. The Society is looking to learn these for themselves, after all.”

“Hm, that line of reasoning is fair. I suppose my surprise is more from the fact that it has not yet been abused to a greater extent. Power in the hands of a few is good on paper, but often not applicable. These magicians have done a good job thus far. I wager you would be able to attain the spell if you desired it enough. Perhaps you will run into a Descendent one day.”

“They are very honourable people of the society. To maintain their good name and glory they’d avoid anything that would make them look bad. It is a rather sensible action to limit the users of such magic,” said John. “Who knows? Perhaps I will. I care not as long as I am commissioned to assassinate one.”

“Power can quickly fill one’s head with deviant thoughts. I fear the day the knowledge of such power spreads even a hair more than intended. That said, has anyone other than the Duchess been able to slay a Descendent? It would be impressive if she were the first.”

“No, we’ve had many throughout history slaying the Descendants. However,” John begun to answer, “the awe-inspiring part about the Duchess’ tale is that she killed the Descendant -after- her team was wiped out. In other words, she fought the thing all on her own for the most part to win.”

“Alone? My goodness. So she is strong enough to take on a Descendent entirely by herself. That is quite the feat. Have you any idea what she is up to now? I find it hard to believe that she would be sitting quietly in an office chair.”

“...Taking on a Descendant who emerged with the same Zodiac,” John answered, adding further, “again. A small bit of it came up on an article in The Times’ newspaper, in the Magic World edition.”

“†˜The Times newspaper’? It releases articles in the Magic World as well? That is most intriguing! Where does one buy this newspaper? Certainly not at the local newspaper stand from what I can tell.”

“Ah, you haven’t heard of it?” John said, a little taken by surprise. “There are various ways to subscribe, but they’re usually either delivered by porters, or bought over from the Royal Council.”

“Truth be told, I do not have many relations inside the Magic World. That fact makes my work slower than I would like it to be, but alas I work with what I can. Do you know any ways for an outsider to gain such access? If you would rather not say, then by all means, feel no need to.”

“Just exercise the power of The Society and it should be simple enough to have them delivered every morning,” John answered. “They are much more effective than contacts, often times. Simple requests probably cost a sum of payment or two; shouldn’t be a big deal.”

“Ah, that is an excellent idea; I have yet to make many requests from them. Back on the topic at hand, I must say, these Descendents must be wary of the Duchess. I wonder if the Descendants have thought of forming an alliance. They seem to be acting separately, but tactically speaking, working together would amount to an immeasurable force.”

“Yes, it would, and already has emerged as such,” John replied, agreeing. “Ever heard of the case of Japan adopting a Time Warrior and using it for their benefits? That is what sparked the current war.”

“That is a topic that I have heard wind of, given its massive impact, but once again, I was not under the impression that they had adopted a Descendant. That is incredibly dangerous. I wonder if they have thought of allying with each other. As I understand it, they are generally antagonistic to each other, but a temporary cease-fire between two parties for the annihilation of other powers would be beneficial. They are a very interesting case study of true power shifts and their dynamics,” Sherlock said as he tossed the idea of why it wasn’t something already done.

“The Descendants – or what Japan calls Time Warriors – hadn’t been so antagonistic before, ironically enough. As far as I understood, they were often people running and hiding in fear of being surrounded. They likely wanted to live in peace. Some would often come up for attaining glory in battle, but giving away their identity would always result in some people allying to them, and others wanting them gone,” the Raven said. “Have you heard of the First Mages’ Great War before?”

“Hm, perhaps power does not beget greed as much as scorn begets fear like I thought,” Sherlock said before pausing to imagine the past. “And, I have seen it in writing, but that can be unreliable. What do you have to say about it?”

“The one we were at war with was a Queen also known as a Descendant,” John said, sounding intrigued. “They say that she was a breaker of many hearts, but was a pristine beautiful figure. I’ve also heard rumours that she now exists, somewhere, someplace far away… waiting to find the right moment for exacting vengeance. After all, Virgo hasn’t appeared in centuries.”

“After such a number of your tales, I am almost not surprised. Where was she last seen?”

“Sahara desert, they say,” John answered. “Some others claimed that she appeared in America, however. I’ve heard various rumours claiming that she, too, appeared around Russia. The only similarity in every stories is that she was likely making her escape after her country fell.”

“Intelligent. Her maneuvers have probably saved her life,” Sherlock said, impressed. “Any idea of the other Descendants? I almost feel like this could be a fun side project to look into.”

“Hmm, let’s see… there is presently no information of Aquarius aside from the fact that they disappeared centuries ago. That was the late King of Knights who was betrayed by one of his many attendants regarding his identity, and thus fell his rule. Then we have the tale of Capricorn, the last to have fallen in the North Pole, executed in harsh coldness, never to be heard of again. Pisces is the one allied with Japan. Aries has been known to be a mercenary of sorts, a Dragon Hunter, they say, but he hasn’t appeared in over two centuries. One of the more dangerous ones roaming across the Magic World would be, I daresay, the Countess, leader of the terrorist Organization, BLoodLuSt, and that would be Scorpio? To be honest, it wasn’t confirmed. Aside from this, Leo hasn’t appeared in a millennium. God knows what he or she may be doing. I feel almost certified that it lives somewhere, and Virgo’s Queen is considered likely as old as Leo’s host. Taurus hasn’t been seen for some centuries either, but the last host who was found was recorded to be executed by the mages. Same for Sagittarius, until the news of the Duchess engaging her appeared yesterday. Gemini has been claimed to be a leader of certain organizations. There are many rumours circulating about him or her. I’m afraid I have nothing on Libra or Cancer, they’re also people that have vanished in time.”

“So we lack a status on Aquarius, Capricorn, Libra, Cancer, Taurus, and to some extent both Leo and Virgo,” Sherlock said. “Assuming that maybe two of the seven would rather remain in hiding, then that leaves five still running rampant. I guess even The Society has trouble identifying and keeping track of such beings. Given the trend of previous bearers, I would assume that only large organizations would have the capabilities to hide such facts from The Society. Yet another thought experiment…”

“Personally, I still find the notion to be far fetched that beings so powerful even exist, but the facts stand regardless. I suspect that these Descendants are probably of a high position of influence. We’ve got a Queen, a King, a dragon slayer as well as some other leaders; that cannot be a coincidence. What if the figure leading The Times’ was a Descendant? Hah! That would be quite the riot. Joking aside, where do you think they could be?”

“Who knows?” John answered with a question himself. “A lowly agent is told only so much. I seldom find information due to my mundane position, but otherwise The Society indeed knows far more than us, but rarely discloses information unless specifically requested… after gaining the right amount of success in tasks, apparently. However, if we follow the cold trail of rumours… there are speculations that Gemini is from the Middle East. Cancer is thought to be around Russia specifically because of how worse the condition in that country is, but that is often a poor joke. There is literally no information on Taurus. However, someone once claimed that they saw Taurus in the big battle – called the Battle In Heavens – where Japan and the European forces clashed some years ago. Of course, proof was scarce, or well, not really any was provided, and the reporter was dismissed. It was a busy time and I reckon no one had the time to conduct an investigation.”

“I do believe that it’d be intriguing if the owner of The Times was a Descendant, it’d explain how they could get so many talented investigators.

“Getting the answers to some of these questions will probably be taxing. Especially since if you consider yourself to have a mundane position, then my rather young position must be dismal. I thank you for filling me in on the matters though. Everything you have spoken of has been tales and information worth being on the edge of a seat for. I am more concerned that I probably have nothing of interest to tell or give to you in return. At best I can offer you tea, I know a quaint cafe that serves exquisite tea and excellent biscuits.”

“Haha, feel free to ask if ever you are pressed for topics. We are bored men on duty, after all.” The Raven chuckled. “I’d be most glad to join you. It is unfortunate that they are closed around now. That said, I hear that you have conversed with someone named Mary as of late?”

“Ah, I have indeed spoken to that woman recently, not that I particularly enjoy her company…” Sherlock’s voice was ever so slightly bitter. “Why do you ask?”

“Is that so? I hear she is good company to keep. Either way, there are speculations that she too, is a Descendant,” the agent said. “Be careful. She has maintained a neutral position among the Queen and The Society throughout the Great Game, a feat that is often hard to achieve. That gold eye of hers draws eyes to her all the time, and no one has managed to figure out what it is, as no one can sense magic from it, apparently.”

“What?! A Descendant you say? While I find her eye to be strange, surely that is not enough reason to make such a judgement. However, if, by some obscure possibility, what you are saying is true, then what is she doing contacting me of all people? A fairly new recruit of The Society with dismal standing and a low profile. My goodness. Though truth be told, I am confused, alarmed, and very intrigued all at once.”

“Don’t ask me,” the Raven said, confused himself. “I have no clue why she’d contact you of all people. She probably has her own set of concerns. For one who has already eluded our Society for long, I don’t know what to say. However… according to The Society, we have noted that someone looking similar to her was recorded to have existed in the previous century.”

“In the previous century? I mean unless Descendants can pass their powers onto their kin, which is highly unlikely, that all but confirms her as having some kind of anti-aging power. Wow… this news is shocking. I will keep an eye out. I assume that with anyone she speaks to, it is likely that she has an ulterior motive. That said, you should watch out as well. She could be using me as a proxy to get to you, or even Claudia. I certainly do not contact many people, which makes the people I contact all the more significant.”

“Mn… well, it isn’t so uncommon. Anti-aging ritual magic is common, and that is the only excuse that is disallowing people from tossing blades and bullets at her,” the raven replied. “I wish I was popular with ladies, but I doubt she is intending to be on my trail. I’d be most flattered if she was, however.”

“Shame. I will stay cautious, but I would like to believe in her. Or rather, I will hope that she is not after my head and her acquaintance is but a coincidence or some matter tied to The Society and not myself entirely. As for yourself, I know not the things you have done, but you seem capable enough to warrant a watchful eye.”

“I hope for the same,” the Raven answered. “I have recently heard from Claudia – after her grand failure at the academy – that she made some friends. I happened to look into it and find out that one of them was our dear subject of topic – Mary.”

“Interesting. If Mary does have ulterior motives, then is she using me as a connection to Claudia or is it the other way around? A very odd question seeing as how neither of us seem significant. Does Claudia seem unique in some way?” Realizing that his question may have been an insensitive to Claudia’s privacy, he quickly added, “Ah, I am sorry. Mind you, if you wish not to disclose information about your pupil, then it is fine.”

“To be perfectly honest, if Mary is indeed aiming to get close to us with an ulterior motive; I know not why she’d do so,” John answered. “Claudia, I wouldn’t say has anything particularly special aside from certain magic, which is why I chose to train her. I wouldn’t think Mary wants to pursue something so destructive, however. At least, anyone in a neutral position wouldn’t. She may be wanting to establish contact to my mundane life, but I hear that it is far more straight-forward than that.”

“So it seems we have come full circle, with nothing gained from our conjecture. For now, Mary will have to remain a mystery. It is no use guessing in the dark; in time, I am sure we will find out more about her.”

As Sherlock finished his sentence, he noticed that the Lorelei was almost finished with her general route. So far, nothing had been out of the ordinary. “It looks like our job is almost over, Agent John. The Lorelei’s route ends soon, somewhere up ahead.”

“Noted. Pleasure working with you, by the way.”

“Likewise. While this may be your pupil’s mission, your company is always welcome.”

Next night, in the West End of London, Claudia arrived at Westminster, the road of Piccadilly – more specifically – to find herself before the luxurious five star hotel known as the Ritz Hotel. The very sight of the towering structure was overwhelming. The lightings of bright gold alone allowed it to stand out from the rest of the hotels located in the area. This hotel was known for the many musicals and performances it put on throughout the evenings, and renowned for its luxurious suites. The afternoon tea was legendary, they say.

“Good evening, Lady Claudia.” A man donned in black coat spoke.

Claudia turned to find a figure just beside her. How he got there soundlessly was beyond her, but it seemed like he’d be her guide tonight.

“Bonsoir, mon ami,” Claudia greeted politely, and this time correctly. “I would assume you were expecting me, yes?”

“Yes, Mi’lady had sent me to fetch for you, her guest for the night,” the man answered, monotone. His voice was deep and lacked the vivacity that Catherine had displayed recently to Claudia.

“I see, this establishment would belong to Catherine then? Impressive,” Claudia said, admiring the premises.

“Oh no, you misunderstand, Lady Claudia. Mi’lady’s family does do business with the owner’s company often, but this is not her property,” the gentleman swiftly explained, “She has only rented a suite for an indefinite period of time for her stay in London.”

Humming at the title “Lady Claudia”, the girl surely thought that had a familiar ring to it. It simply brought her to a smile. “Well, I would like to see her. I would not want to keep her waiting,” Claudia said.

“Before that… I must confirm something,” the gentleman said before standing before her and facing her properly. “Are you certain that you’d like go down this path?” There was a strange hint of worry as the man asked this question. “Your life may be changed forever, beyond repair in fact, if you accept Mi’lady’s hospitality tonight.”

Claudia tilted her head and wore a deadpan expression. “My friend, my life has undergone multiple changes— more than I could count on my fingers, actually. I've escaped death by the skin of my teeth, more than I actually should have,” she explained, making a point. “Another change in my life is merely another hat I have to wear and change daily.”

“This change is incomparable to any others of the past,” her guide stated strictly, not making proper note of Claudia’s answer. “Well, I hold no authority to stop you. You are free to your liberty, and may choose your path however you may. But remember that our mistress is one who takes the reins of our liberty to take flight to… distant skies. Often enough, they are dark and perilous.”

Claudia hummed and smirked. “That is fine by me. I was literally born for things in that category.”

“Very well then, I shall take you to our mistress.” The two then entered the gates and proceeded into the Ritz Hotel.

It was as if Claudia caught a glimpse of paradise itself: large and inviting sofas adorned with cushions of shiny fabric, gleaming lamps mysteriously pleasing to the eyes, fluffy beds and pristine walls with ingeniously marvelous decor beckoned her to stare at such wondrous sights forever. It was as if the entire room was adorned with gems; the reflection on her eye clearly sparkled in return. This level of luxury was beyond even the Duke. While her old Lord could afford it, he simply lacked the fashionably high-class tastes that Catherine seemed to relish.

Before she knew it, her guide – the gentleman who had accompanied her up to the corridors from the elevator – was gone; leaving her with his so-called mistress alone in this exceptional suite room.

“Bonsoir, mademoiselle Claudia,” Catherine greeted in the most respectful manner – just like the previous time they met – yet from her tone, Claudia could discern excitement most certainly. “Comment allez-vous?”

“I am well, thank you,” Claudia replied with a prompt smile. “I must say, Catherine, this hotel bodes higher to my expectations than I thought. I am impressed.” She glanced around the room, admiring the eye-catching decor.

“Ritz is one of the most renowned hotel in all of England, after all,” Catherine replied in a matter of factly tone, taking up a glass of what seemed like red wine in her hand. “Did you know that this hotel’s suites are only available to special individuals?”

“I could imagine, what with it being a five star rated establishment,” responded Claudia.

“Oh no, that is not what I imply, my dear,” Catherine waved her hand dismissively, casting aside the reply. “Regardless of your wealth; the management will deny you any right to stay in their high-class suites. They will claim that they are already booked. These rooms are reserved for the especial individuals of the High Places.”

Claudia quirked an eyebrow. “High Places, you say? Aside from wealth, of what ilk are these people from to be admitted so exclusively?”

“Politicians, especial nobles, the Diogenes, upstanding leaders of certain Magic Organizations,” Catherine answered. “Simply being rich or being a noble does usually count not. Your current guardian; the Lord Duke, is also a member of the High Places, my dear.”

Claudia groaned at the word current. It really did ruffle her to be reminded she was still under the Duke. Then again, that would be her entire basis for coming here tonight. She was anxious to push the subject out of curiosity, but did not want to come off as rude. “Interesting. Alas, I have not heard of this before…” she said. “The Duke has never spoken of it nor has opted to bring me along.”

“Well, of course he wouldn’t, as it is a term meant to define the higher plane they stand in… figuratively, my dear,” Catherine stated, taking a swig of her drink. “It is a common term often used across England. You do not acquaint yourself much with your peers, perchance?”

“I wish not to acquaint myself with too many people around me. It is for personal reasons, you see,” Claudia explained, crossing her arms.

“Because you are afraid that your darker nature may consume them? That you’d eventually be provoked to massacre them?” Catherine inquired – her face leaning ever closer with a wider devilish grin than before – her eyes carrying a more vivid glimmer of excitement. “Are you afraid that you’d be enraged rather easily from being shunned? They do say many things about you; how you seduced the Duke to receive a position under him, and whatnot.”

Claudia was taken aback by such an assumption. Rather, she was shocked by it. “Me and the Duke? Why would I do such a thing so absurd?” She turned away and cursed under her breath. “...I did not know that people said those things. However, I'm not even surprised. The least knowledgeable will always flap their tongues.” She suddenly appeared unphased by Catherine's words, as if she had shrugged them off.

“You possess a destructive nature in your heart. It is not so absurd to you in reality,” Catherine giggled yet again, apparently finding Claudia’s attitude amusing. “Well, people enjoy rumours. They feed their minds off with entertainment from others’ perils or fortunes.”

Claudia groaned in reply. “Don't I know it…” She said to herself, thinking of a certain blonde woman she acquainted herself with. “Still, I try to stave back that destructive nature that seems to cause me much anguish as much as possible. It has already stripped me of my sword and title, who knows what it could possess me to do next?”

“Give away your life, perhaps?” Catherine guessed, or was it a prediction? Either way, despite her expression; her voice sounded rather calm and serious.

“Maybe,” Claudia replied, sighing. “Gods be damned if that were the case. I don't even know where I got it, granted I was never one to be so destructive as a child.”

“Did you know that you’re one of the final magi in the modern era to possess such rare and deathly magecraft?”

“...What?” Claudia asked in disbelief.

“Your Lord did not inform you?” Catherine asked, speaking in a snide tone. “Were you ever told how knowledge of such magic is possible to gain nowadays, especially with the ban in effect?”

Claudia shook her head. “As lackadaisical as he can be, no, never,” she replied, putting a hand to her chin. “Come to think of it, the man had seldom spoken to me if it did not involve work anyway. I was only told that I was to use forbidden magic to his, and the Society's leisure,” she continued, “...and that was after the fact.”

“In all honesty, I am partially inclined to invite you to my Organization for your ability, so – on the contrary – The Society and I have an aligned opinion that your magecraft is indeed a rare gem to wield,” Catherine declared, no longer smiling.

“I see. Well, you've done enough to gain my curiosity – even more so for my attention. But wanting to use my abilities...that begs the question; for what? To kill? To start wars? There has to be a reason for all of this, and I wish to know what has two secret organizations up in arms for the last of my kind,” Claudia inquired, staring back at Catherine.

“First, allow me to explain how you have ended up with your forbidden spells: the infamous devils. Your parents seemed to have worshipped and contracted them for a price; they made an exchange. I’d assume this to be the knowledge of forbidden spells,” Catherine begun to explain, “I’d believe that they then implanted this knowledge in some form of teaching, am I correct?”

Claudia cast her head low, remembering the harsh teachings from her parents. “Devils...? My parents would…” She began. “–Yes, I remember. They would teach me a myriad of spells, most of them seemingly brutal to the eye if done upon someone – including Heart Shatter. I never thought anything of it, though. I still don't know what to think…” She lamented having to hear something like that and wondered if her parents truly loved her whilst teaching her such things.

“With the loathsome Church members slaughtering magicians possessing knowledge of such spells; it is a rather easier conclusion to reach that the devils are the providers of the spells’ knowledge,” Catherine inserted as Claudia almost entered into a state of deep thinking. “Thus, you are unique.”

“Unique? I'll say,” Claudia began. “Knowing that I'm the inhabitant of those who seek the end – indeed, I am a lucky catch. Christ, I knew I had it bad at first but, knowing this changes things,” Claudia concluded, bewildered.

“Now, have you ever heard of the BLoodLuSt?”

Claudia nodded. "The terrorist group? Yes, I have. What of them?" she answered.

“At this moment, you are speaking to their most infamous leader, known for countless acts of villainy,” Catherine plainly answered.

Claudia's eyes bat wide as she turned to Catherine and looked at her as if she hadn’t heard her correctly. She would have thought of this as some sick joke, but then again, neither Mary or Charlotte were there. "You? You are the Countess?" she asked, unable to believe it herself. Albeit, a smile found its way onto her face as she giggled uncontrollably. “Now that's interesting…”

“Oh, my. You do not seem the least bit terrified. Consider me surprised,” Catherine said. Somehow, Claudia’s words seemed to have made the Countess happy.

“Why would I be? You just became even more interesting by the minute, Catherine. Like I said, being the daughter of two dead Diabolists changes things, a lot of things,” Claudia said, pacing around the room until she came to a complete stop to face the woman. “I like you, Catherine. You made my night, truly.”

Catherine giggled. “Get some standards, dear. The party has hardly even begun,” but then she made a more earnest face. “However, I shall thank you regardless for your kind words.”

Claudia smirked widely, dropping her head to the floor. “I see now, you need me to accomplish what goals you have established for England. What's more that crossed my mind, you are a Time Warrior,” she added. “Well, so far – as a party guest, I am already amused.”

“Not for England, no,” Catherine waved her hand dismissively as she laughed those words off, “I have plans for the entire world,” she corrected, her hand soon caressing her guest’s cheek thoughtlessly. “For you, my dear, I would indeed have you play a role as do my minions, and one of them happens to be taking lives even as we speak,” she added enthusiastically. “I am indeed a Descendant of Time. Pardon me, for I usually tend to ignore the label †˜Time Warrior’ as it was a name given to my kind by the Japanese.”

Claudia chuckled happily at the part about taking lives – rather her vulgar and overexcited side did. It excited her for some reason. “The world, you say...What do you have in mind, Madame?" She asked, smirking.

“In time, you shall learn. However, for now I shall reveal that we, in actuality, hunt other Descendants of Time,” Catherine answered.

“Hunting your own race, that's rather intense,” Claudia hummed. “For what reason, may I ask?”

“The Descendants of Time? A race? Am I to accept your words as a form of jest? I believe I am not suppose, most definitely not. There are many reasons, but for now they must be prolonged from meeting each other,” Catherine answered, “For we possess the ability to end the world if we all meet. The only way to prevent it is to kill off one or two… until the time is right.”

Claudia giggled excitedly. “Well, Madame, for now, that is all the reason I need because from now on, my sword is your sword – which reminds me…” She paused. “I need a weapon if I am to be taking lives soon.”

“Mn, a sword, mn?” Catherine repeated the words in a more disinterested tone, “I believe that may wait,” she plainly said, dismissing the matter for now. “More importantly,” she begun immediately, “You may not join my Organization with those words alone. You must establish a proper contract with me,” she stated, and continued after taking a moment to reform her smiling countenance. To Claudia, her very expression was seductive. “Pray tell: what is your desire? For your services, I shall endeavour to fulfill your desire, want, or wish – if it is within my influence. What would you wish from me, in exchange for your services? You may take your time to evaluate your thoughts regarding this matter.”

“A desire…” The words repeated through Claudia's mouth and echoed in her psyche a thousand times over. A pact in exchange for service? She thought. It took her merely an entire minute before pulling a lock of hair from her eye, straightening the entire length out with her arm; finally deciding. “...I wish to have, well, it is not a material item, per se... It is simply a person…” Claudia began with a crooked smile. “I wish to have my own plaything – a woman in that regard, who will fulfill any request I make and will protect me at all costs.” Claudia's face became a bit more… demented as she said that, as if she had held that in for a while.

“I see,” Catherine said, a thoughtless response. She pondered her words for a moment, and then smirked; giving a playful look before the very shape of her face itself changed. Her hair turned and reshaped all the same. Soon, a girl with blonde hair and a pale and sad-looking face formed, then the face changed to that of a more rigid, resilient, and silent-looking girl with brown hair, and eventually a black-haired asian who looked meek and timid appeared before Claudia as Catherine’s face warped beyond recognition.

“So, what kind of a woman would you like? Do any of these types fancy your tastes?” Catherine asked.

Claudia smiled jubilantly, completely in exuberance that her request was to be fulfilled so simply. “...The blonde one is cute, but I can’t have a sad-looking minion. That would mean I am conflicted between the brunette and the Asian,” she said, weighing her options. “I will admit, I have a fairly large soft spot for timid women, yet, a guilty pleasure for unmoved and rigid ones...then again, Asians aren’t so bad either,” she continued, in thought. “I have made my decision. The Asian speaks to me the most, I shall take her,” Claudia finally decided, satisfied with her choice.

Catherine laughed heartily at Claudia’s response, she found it amusing how fast she could reach a conclusion despite seeming to a wide range of taste for ladies. “Well, these were but mere examples; I was attempting to take a glimpse into your tastes. If you believe that you may want a native blonde timid woman instead – I may be able to find someone matching the description – just say the word,” she stated, confident. Who knew what sources Catherine possessed, but Claudia was sure now that she had access to all kinds of women. Did she possess connections to the slavers, perhaps? It was a possibility. “Do take more time considering, would you? This concerns your very future, my dear. While I am fine with granting your wish, there is a certain… risk to timid women; they may succumb to fear at the worst of times and thus fail to be your most stalwart shield.”

“That is true, I suppose,” Claudia figured, cupping her chin with her hand. “I do prefer the militant ones anyways. There is something about their stoic nature that brings a smile to my face. In fact, I find them extremely cute when they are unmoved, even to punishment…” The girl’s smile grew more wide each time she relished in the thought of having her own servant. “All right. I would like a blonde native woman who is militant and will follow all of my orders,” she said calmly, but made no effort to hide her excitement.

“Mmn, I see, you have a rather wide assortment of tastes, it seems,” Catherine concluded, smiling. The shape of her face changed back as her copper red hair begun to reappear. However, it wasn’t the Catherine she knew, while the features were very similar; she was much more slender, a little taller, and her skin was pale. She was, in short details, an impossibly beautiful and pristine young lady, almost comparable to someone who came to life from a portrait of painting.

“Then, allow me to confirm the contents of our contract tonight: a servant shall be provided to you – one who is militant; capable of combat, but her nature would be cold and resilient – and thus you will be granted a new situation as promised, along with certain luxuries that comes within our sphere of influence. In return, you will join and serve my Organization, BLoodLuSt, a terrorist group, out of your own violation, and work to change the world, as previously mentioned,” she said, stating the terms, conditions. “Additionally,” she added, “You will be given power so that you may be a more proper addition to our forces as an asset.”

“I really like the sound of that. I accept your terms openly,” Claudia agreed, now slightly calmed down now that talk of her future minion was all said and done. “When do I begin?”

“Hmm. When would you like to begin?”

Claudia smiled again, this time it was modest compared to the one from earlier. “Well, I’m fairly eager and I’m certain you’ve no time to wait on my decision, so if it is alright with you, My Lady, I would be delighted to start now.”

“The matter is a little complicated, for which I had been prepared to give you ample time,” Catherine stated, taking out a piece of paper and looking over it. “You are currently residing with Mary Shelley, are you not? You would have to leave her lodgings if you are to join.”

“Hnn, is that so? Well, I have no issue with that,” Claudia said, shrugging. “What should I tell her, though? That I moved back in with the Duke?”

“You are free to use any kind of excuse, I shall leave it to you. Do exercise caution for secrecy… is what I would like to say, but I want my members to be more creative with their reasonings,” Catherine answered. “However, beware of Mary Shelley – no, Mary Linfield, she is particularly dangerous. Once you obtain power from me, a single moment of exposing said powers, and she will come to know facts regarding you.”

“And if she does?”

“Run,” was the only word Catherine gave out as a response, “You are no match against her. Not yet.”

Claudia gave a prompt nod. “Understood,” she said. Despite this, she had no desire to harm her either way.

“You may be able to face her in an equal footing if you master the powers you gain… but they will take time to dominate,” Catherine elaborated. “Besides, she is your friend, yes? I would not want to soil the relation.” She then turned to look behind her,“See that over there?” Catherine ushered to the bed on the corner. There was a man covered in a white blanket. Strange, why hadn’t Claudia notice him till now?

“He was defeated by your friend, and is now resting here.”

Claudia furrowed her brows in surprise. “Mary is that powerful, despite the power the people in the Organization have? Impressive.”

“There is a difference between Representatives, and their descendants, after all,” Catherine spoke vaguely, and finally finished her drink. “Now, how long would you like to take for Mary? We could have you gain your power tonight to complete the contract. However, you would have to learn to control yourself around Mary.”

“I should at least spend one last night with her. She would find it uncanny if I were to find new lodgings or otherwise so soon,” Claudia replied. “But about my new powers; what exactly would be the effect of them?”

“We will find out only after you gain them. It is considerable to opening a gift box – or should I say, pandora's box – of which you do not know what lies within,” Catherine answered. “Mn, I see. So, another night. I suppose you shall be paying me a visit the day after tomorrow?”

“Of course. After witnessing what you had just promised me, I have more than one reason to return,” Claudia answered, chuckling.

“Very well, we shall leave the matters at that. In order to fulfill my promise to you, I will look for a suitable woman for you in the meantime. So, spend your time however you wish,” Catherine said, then smirking, “However…” she added, before taking a red stone out of her pocket, “take this.” She handed a necklace to Claudia. “In times of emergency, this will protect you.”

“Protect me? As in a force field, or something along the lines?”

“Oh no, nothing that fancy,” Catherine giggled as she begun to answer, “Basically, your lost blood will be restored before your slain skin can be recovered; that is, you’d be relieved of any fatal wounds. It is made out of valuable substances… which may be a waste if you are wounded deeply too easily. So, just avoid getting hurt at all… I do not think misfortune would befall you tomorrow, but you can never be too careful.”

“Hnn, nifty. That sounds better than any healing spell I have ever used,” Claudia remarked.

“Well, they come at a great price, after all.”

Claudia smirked. “Well, I thank you for this. I will make sure to use it in the most dire of times. In the meantime…” Claudia began, “I must leave for now, Mary might be wondering where I have gone.”

“You did not provide an excuse or a lie of some kind to her?” Catherine asked, as if it was obvious that she should have done so. “Either way, the man who led you to this room will escort you home, so do go with a peace of mind. No need to fear the curfew, despite it having started now. There is but one thing, however… what do you intend to do with the academy?”

Claudia halted her pace and stared blankly at the ceiling with a long-winded and exasperated sigh. It was as if she lamented hearing of that place, what with her current reputation. “...Unfortunately I see no reason to abandon it just yet if I am to keep a low profile in front of others.”

“Not just that, but your studies are also important,” Catherine said, almost sounding like a mother now. “You mustn’t let go of it so easily. It may be your only way to maintain your friends’ relations, too. You may be a little too busy for those relaxing café visits in the near future, after all. Additionally, I may be able to pull some strings to restore your social standings.”

“Hmm? You possess such power? Then again, it shouldn’t come as a surprise, granted where you lie in terms of social standings,” Claudia said. “But for Mary and Charlotte; for some reason it might worry them to not see me so often anymore.”

“That is the hard part, you must come up with a reason for them, my dear. Mull over the matter if you must,” Catherine said. It was as though she noticed something moments after she had heard it. “You happen to be acquainted with Charlotte Brontë, mn? I see” she remakred vaguely.

“Indeed, I do. She is a rather interesting person to speak to, and…” Claudia paused, flushing a little. “If I didn’t know any better, I would have picked her to be my minion...”

“She does fit your tastes, albeit she has more than just what you wish. Well… I would want to but… alas, it is impossible. Please accept my sincerest apologies, my dear,” Catherine did look apologetic, and somewhat frustrated about it herself as she apologised.

Claudia smiled after sighing. “I wouldn’t worry about it too much. After all, I made my wish and if I remember the saying correctly: beggars can’t be choosers, yes?”

“I would really want to try, but it is more problematic. Besides, it’d be awkward if she were to be your servant overnight,” Catherine stated, her countenance recovered moments later. “Now, you best be on your way. I shall not prolong your stay here longer. Good night and take care, my dear.”

“Same to you. Adieu, Catherine.”

As Claudia left the room, the same gentleman greeted her, and she was soon taken home in a gurney. Unlike her previous time in a gurney, however, she was treated completely differently. She wasn’t the driver, nor was her escort, as the two sat on the back seats. It didn’t take long to get to home, perhaps because she found the experience too enjoyable? Regardless, greater things were yet to come, and she couldn’t be wholly satisfied with just this ride yet.

“It should be around here,” the child-like woman with violet hair said to the tall man walking beside her. The location was the Church Road. It was ironic that the hideout of the vampires was located around here.

Amrita held out her arm to the vacant air. Her finger was adorned with a ring, and it shined as she channeled mana – driven from the Faerie Realm – through it. “There is a Boundary here somewhere indeed…”

“What do you intend to do once you find it?” Amrita asked. “We might be overpowered by too many vampires.”

“Oh I’m sure they’ll be quite reasonable,” Arthur said jokingly. “Either way, I’m sure that we can handle it together.”

“Well, aren’t you optimistic,” Amrita said, frowning. “I wonder how they even find Boundaries like these. They’re hidden a little too well. It’s no wonder that a mage from a church didn’t notice.”

“They’re smart creatures,” Arthur said, still surveying the area. “We probably never would have found this alone.”

“That scholar who shared the information is definitely not ordinary then,” Amrita said. “If someone like me is having trouble; she must be exceptional in sensing magic.” Her head soon perked up as if she noticed something. “Oh, I found it,” she then recited a verse of an ancient language. “Alright, follow me, but you might wanna stick very close if you don’t wanna get lost.”

The world begun to warp as the two progressed. As they walked throughout the street; the forms of the houses changed slightly, the sky seemed less cloudy, which was ironic. The Engine Lights hardly illuminated the path and there weren’t any citizens passing by them no matter how far they went. Since the law was recently implemented, one would usually find a few people walking by here and there. This was a good thing for the two since they wouldn’t want people to see Amrita’s horns. Albeit she’d usually take some effort to shroud them with illusionary magic items when going out, except at night.

“Very quiet,” Arthur voiced aloud, “Almost unnerving, don’t you think?”

“...I agree,” Amrita nodded. “We haven’t reach-” she stopped and turned around. “Nevermind, we’re here.”

There was a large castle standing behind the two. The environment changed completely, and Arthur could see a red clear sky above. There weren’t any Engine Lights, nor any houses outside the black gates as far as they could see.

“T-This isn’t what they call a ghost house, is it?” Amrita questioned, fidgeting.

“Who knows what kind of vengeful spirit lies beyond?” Arthur asked rhetorically, in an overly dramatic tone, “Let’s get a move on,” he said approaching the looming gates.

Amrita ended up clinging to Arthur again as he pushed the gates open. It wasn’t anything like a horror story where the gates would open on their own in a dramatic fashion. They then made their way to the castle. Just before they could enter the castle, they heard an ominous howl. From the top of the house a something poked out; leering at the two down below. It soon jumped down and landed before them, startling Amrita.

“It’s the same Lycanthrope!” she said, pointing at the monster.

Arthur turned to find another Lycanthrope behind him. He had no idea where it came from, making no noise no less.

Arthur sighed. “This isn’t what we came here for,” he said wearily. Extending his hand, a gleaming sword appeared. “I guess it has to come down to this again.”

Amrita nodded, taking a grimoire out from her waist. “Two this time. I wonder if they breed these monsters somehow.

“Then again, Lycanthropes are people by day. So… perhaps they infect them somehow?”

The Lycanthropes attacked. With their sharp and long claws they approached the two with alarming speed.

Arthur was no slouch when it came to speed either. He quickly intercepted the claws of both werewolves before they had a chance to hit him or his companion. Pushing them back he launched a counterattack. Shimmering sword in hand he made a sharp cut upwards matting on the Lycanthropes’ fur with red. It fell to one knee before Arthur almost clinically made another incision. Even blood didn’t dull the shine of the legendary blade the former King of Knights wielded as the Lycanthrope collapsed to the floor. Turning to the other one Arthur wore an apologetic face.

“It’s a shame it has to come to this,” he said, ready for the remaining Lycanthrope’s next attack.

The Lycanthrope growled, as if angered from witnessing the injury that his comrade had received. It raised its claws and attempted to attack, but just before Arthur’s blade connected; it stopped. It moaned, coughing up blood that painted Arthur half-red before it fell down to the ground.

After the monster fell, Arthur found the student from yesterday before him. Not the disgraceful scholar who lacked a knight’s honour, but the platinum haired lady who shared information about this area.

“I see you’re hard at work tonight,” Mary commented, holding a deep black sword. There were strange black vines full of spikes that seemed to have merged with her arm.

“Well now,” Arthur mused. “Isn’t this a surprise. Whatever could you be doing here young lady?”

Mary shrugged. “I was ordered to help out, and so here I am,” she answered. “I honestly thought that you’d be good enough for this.” Indeed she did, but mostly because she’d rather not know something about him that she wasn’t meant to know. She felt bad about leaving a certain friend behind at an hour like this at her own lodgings, but it had to be done. She felt slightly ironic especially because she scolded her about returning late yesterday.

“You doubt me?” Arthur asked sarcastically, “I’m hurt.”

“Well, I didn’t. My superior did,” Mary answered, despite noting the sarcasm.

“Or are you here to keep an eye on us?” Amrita asked, narrowing her eyes.

“Definitely not. I’d rather be sleeping than doing that,” Mary chuckled as she answered.

Ignoring the back and forth between the two girls Arthur pushed open the door to the castle that stood in front of him. The large wooden door creaked as he did so.

“You two coming?” He asked as an afterthought.

Mary nodded, Amrita simply dropped the subject, and the two soon followed.

Inside the castle now, the three found a hall devoid of light, mostly. A hue of red came through the crimson sky from the windows. The lights were off, it seemed. It seemed like the floors were cleaned, at least. The floors creaked as they walked, however; they were wooden. There was a multitude of portraits, all showing a particular woman Arthur was well-acquainted with.

Arthur looked in all directions, and he couldn’t find anyone in sight other than Amrita and Mary. Eventually, they found a room beyond the large staircase just before them – locked with a tall and wide white door – and he felt an ominous air around it.

“There is quite a lot of energy swirling around there,” Mary said, looking in the same direction as Arthur – towards the room beyond the staircase.

“I don’t feel anything…” Amrita said, confused.

“Spiritual energy,” Mary elaborated.

“What are you, a Spirit Seer?” Amrita asked, but Mary remained silent.

“I didn’t need a Spirit Seer to tell me there was something weird about that room,” Arthur remarked in a hushed tone.

“Well, let us go, shall we?” Mary asked.

Amrita on the other hand shuddered. “Err, we’re really going there…?”

“You want us to just stay up here and do nothing?” Arthur asked.

“I-It could also be a trap!” Amrita said, “Mary is the one who gave you the information; what’s there to say that she isn’t misleading us?”

Arthur looked at Mary. It wouldn’t be too farfetched to assume that this girl could indeed be misleading the two of them. There was so much that was suspicious about the girl’s story and her as a person.

“Is it a trap?” Arthur asked, not really hoping for a proper answer.

“If I were to ask you if you killed someone innocent – when you in fact did – would you tell me the truth?” Mary asked in response, chuckling.

“Most likely,” Arthur said, “But I wouldn’t kill someone innocent in the first place, whereas you, I feel you would have no qualms with lying to me.”

“But what proof do you have against me? And what credibility is there to warrant that your words wouldn’t be lies from my perspective? Your position have given rise to countless rumours that makes you far more questionable than even I am in the Magic World at the moment, Mister Director. However – whether you believe it or not – I mean no ill for you, I am here on orders, and I only stand against vampires. I’m no fan of vampires either, and I am here out of duty.”

“Well then,” Arthur smiled. “After you my lady.”

“Of course,” Mary smiled, walking towards the hazy violet airs that surrounded the path ahead. A stout girl.

The three then proceeded past the staircase and to the tall white pair of doors. Arthur pushed the door open, and gestured for Mary to proceed in a gentlemanly manner.

The lady who was only known to Arthur as a scholar walked into the darkness before them. Arthur followed after her, with Amrita clinging to a part of his cloth.

From the darkness flew out daggers – or so it seemed to Arthur from the glint of the flash – before impaling the lady he allowed to step in first. When Mary dropped to the ground – with her chest clearly pierced – it seemed like she was stabbed by white stakes of some kind. At least that was what Arthur could conclude from what little light came in from the open door behind them.

“...I-Is she really dead?” Amrita asked, looking at Mary on the floor, crimson blood spreading.

Arthur gazed forward and found a bed, and over it was an old enemy that he had recently met.

“You have bad manners, walking into a lady’s room like that, Arthur,” she said. An irritated expression gave away that she was awfully angry for some reason, unlike her usual smug face.

“I couldn’t stay away,” Arthur said smirking upon seeing the angered face. Immediately he crouched down to check the heartbeat of the girl who had been so cruelly impaled. There was none. He reached over to heal but his concentration was broken by the woman’s voice.

“I was almost asleep… how irritating,” she hissed. “Ansel!” she called. A black portal formed before the bed, and a man in black suit and pants walked out from it, facing Arthur and Amrita.

“I will take care of them,” he said with a cold tone, but Arthur could feel extreme hostility just from looking at him. It was as though he was roused more than his old friend on the bed was.

“That seems like a normal vampire,” Amrita said, looking the man from bottom to top. “I can tell that the clothes are enchanted, but not the effects themselves.”

Arthur sighed. “Well I suppose this was inevitable,” he said, his legendary sword appearing in his hands.

Ansel raised his hand, as if to cast a spell, but Amrita did the same at the same time. It seemed like a matter of who’d be fast enough to gather mana from the spells’ respective Realm, and shoot away said spell. Unfortunately for him – and fortunately for Arthur – Amrita was faster, as a mystical force sucked away nutrients from his arm. He pulled it back in time to save it from being completely immobilized.

“Tch.”

“I feel so tired…” Amrita whispered to Arthur. “I’ve taken in too much mana recently. My body can’t handle much more,” she explained. “I’ll leave the rest to you.”

“That’s good to hear,” Ansel said, apparently overhearing her words. He raised his arm and called forth the Realm of Infernals, and soon his body was alight with a strange aura, then it multiplied. Now Arthur could see many Ansels across the room, only one being the real him, apparently.

“Well, shall we get started?” Arthur asked, still smiling. Trying to call forth his armaments for the second time, he was successful. Five appeared, circling around him.

Mentally directing his armaments, Arthur readied his blade as they fanned out to attack his enemy. Eliminating the fakes, Arthur immediately pounced, Excalibur in hand as he slashed into an off guard Ansel.

“Don’t lose focus, you’re fighting me,” he said with a grin.

Blood rolled into the air, and dripped onto the floor as the shining blade wounded the frowning vampire. Taken aback, he took a step behind. Hearing the sigh of his mistress=, he felt rather insulted.

It seemed as though he pointed towards Arthur – as he grinned back at him – but when Arthur traced the direction, it lead to someone behind him. Indeed, it was Amrita. Before he could turn back – or even consider doing so – a scream followed from the little girl. He finally turned, and found a bloodstained girl with a clear flesh wound leaning on the door.

Arthur frowned, grin gone from his face. Instead it was replaced by disgust. Disgust at the tenacity of the Vampire he was fighting.

“I said,” he uttered darkly, “you’re fighting me.”

“I suppose,” Ansel answered, his grin unwavering as a sword materialised before his hand. Grabbing his blade, he swung it down towards Arthur without hesitation, drawing upon his blood. Arthur immediately struck back, surprising the vampire. He spat on the floor and moved back, an illusionary form of himself coming forth before Arthur, obscuring the view. Ansel seemed to hide himself among the fakes that kept reappearing even now.

“You think I’m phased by your attacks?” Arthur asked of the whole room, not knowing where the real Ansel resided. “Bring the pain,” he spat. As he did, he spun his sword: looking around the room. Trying to deduce which Ansel was the real one, he suddenly attacked. Faster than Ansel could react to, Arthur’s sword arced towards the Vampire’s chest.

“Damn you! What the heck are you?!” the Vampire roared, feeling the pain the King of Knights spoke of, a hand falling over his gushing wound. He tried to swing his blade upon Arthur again, but before he could take his attack on, a different blade stopped the strike.

A deep black blade stopped Ansel’s gray sword. He hadn’t a moment to eye the platinum-blonde haired lady with ire as Mary’s blade was thrust and pierced into his chest. It pierced so deep – and seemingly so effortlessly – that it broke out from his back. Mary soon pulled her sword out and fell back behind Arthur.

“Sorry for the wait,” she said, smiling like before she was stabbed. The stakes were taken out, lying before the door, it seemed. She was still wounded, however.

“Nice sword,” Arthur said, turning to check on Amrita’s wound.

“Why thank you,” Mary replied, turning to the bed where the woman should’ve been. However, she was long gone.

“Tch,” Arthur tutted, not only was his target gone but the power he intended to use to heal Amrita had backfired on him, healing himself instead. “We have to go, I doubt either of you are in the best condition right now.”

Mary poked Arthur from behind. “I found this on her bed,” she said. “You’d probably want it more than me.” She handed it to him. It was a letter, the sealing seemed to be unmistakably of the Royalty.

“My stomach still hurts,” Amrita said, sounding like she was complaining as usual, but she tried really hard to keep herself from sobbing. The pain was burning and almost unbearable.

Arthur took the letter from Mary. “Thank you,” he said tucking it into his jacket pocket. Lifting the wounded Amrita up he whispered, “I’m sorry,” to her before turning again to Mary. “Let’s go.”

Mary gave a nod and followed along.







“Thank you,” Mary said. “It seemed like you didn’t need my help, after all. My client may have underestimated you,” Mary said, giving a bow to Arthur, still wounded as before.

They were now outside the Boundary, which was apparently gone after they left it, according to Amrita.

“Most people do,” Arthur said. “Are you ok?” he asked, genuinely concerned.

“I’ll be alright,” Mary answered, smiling. “Just be sure to take care of your friend,” she said, looking at Amrita, who was passed out by now from exhaustion.

“Will do,” Arthur said. “And thank you.” He turned to leave in order to treat the girl who lay unconscious in his arms.

Natsu was now in a car. A black car that was escorting her home. The vehicle flew across the transparent road equipped with lightings across the vacant air. The driver seemed to be speaking on the phone very often, but she could hardly hear anything. It seemed like he was whispering throughout most of his conversation with the person on the other side of the phone.

“Excuse me, Kazehaya-sama?” the driver addressed the girl in the back seat. In order to focus on the road, he did not turn back, and was uncertain whether she fell asleep from the tiredness or not.

“Huh?” Natsu wasn’t asleep, but she was taken out of her idle thoughts. “Oh, yes?” she replied back to the driver. Was something urgent occurring? Natsu hoped not.

“We have a problem on our hands. You have pursuers, it seems,” the driver informed, a solemn look could be seen from the side from Natsu’s view. “It seems like the Europeans are rather stubborn about you. We have tried to hold them back, but the fight is not going in our favor so far.”

Natsu’s eyes went wide, and she carefully looked out of each of the car’s windows. “Are… are they coming after us now already...? Did they find me again…?” she asked nervously. She glanced back at the mark on her hand, wondering if she’d need to rely on Sagittarius' power once again to save her from this situation. Even if she wouldn’t die from the encounter, Natsu was afraid of reliving the intense pain she had just recovered from, along with possibly harming the people who had helped her.

“Um… Kazehaya-sama. Please listen carefully to what I am about to tell you,” the guard begun, “the last user of Sagittarius was a woman in America… and she was indeed killed by a magician about thirty years ago. If you withhold your powers in combat, you may be in greater danger than you believe. As there are chances that the same magician may be after you.”

“The same…?” Natsu’s voice silenced for a moment, shocked by this new information. “I thought… I thought a Descendant of Time was immortal…?” Someone had figured out how to kill a Time Warrior. How could this be, Natsu thought. Sagittarius, herself, had told her it couldn’t be done.

“They are immortal, yes. However, they can be killed when the time around them is stopped. That is what this particular magician is capable of.”

Sagittarius had stopped time when she saved Natsu. If that was the case… Natsu asked to confirm. “Is this magician a Time Warrior, too…?”

“No. Time Warriors and magicians are strictly different. Time Warriors rely on spiritual energies derived from their respective spirits, mages borrow mana from the Realms. We do not know how they do it, but it is believed that there is a small group of magicians from Europe that are able to cast a spell that is able to stop time in a small targeted space.”

Natsu shuddered at the thought of this. She already knew what kind of havoc could be caused when Sagittarius stopped time. The fact that these assassins could too was making Natsu especially fearful. She really hoped Sagittarius would save her again. Fighting someone on that scale was too much.

“Well, it should be just one person in this case, but still, be careful,” the man said.

“...I see…” Natsu said. It was all that she could come up with for a reply. The girl had only gained such powers today, and she’d suddenly have to go through an unbelievable ordeal all over again. It was a little too tall an order for her to carry out, but she’d have to go through this, if she wanted to see the light of tomorrow. Knowing that it was just one magus capable of performing the feat was a slightly comforting fact, but her peace of mind was forever lost.

At that time, an ear-splitting noise occurred and Natsu yelped.

“Already?!” the driver yelled, trying to not fall over the transparent road.

Natsu looked towards the window of the car and found figures slightly visible from the lights of the city under the night sky. They wore black cloaks – just like last time – and had their heads turned towards her. She was sure that it was them – her enemies.

“Sagittarius-sama!”

An immensely bright light emanated from Natsu…

Hynek stepped out from the car, the door was opened by none other than Felix, his wife and assistant. The two were dressed exclusively for the night. Felix wore an appropriate party dress, a deep green dress. †˜Appropriate’ according to her alone. With how her back was wide open for her man to see, one would rather call her bold and daring.

Hynek wore a blue and gold blazer with some white slacks. His shoes were black with shiny golden buckles on them. The middle was buttoned up with a single button in the middle, and a gold chain hung from his jacket pocket to his belt where it latched on. Grabbing the pocket watch from the pocket, he looked at the time. “Fashionably late…” he said to himself. With his arm wrapped around Felix’s waist, they were sure to raise a few brows.

The two soon proceeded – raising brows as expected – accompanied by a guide who showed them around the place. The building was tall and large, and most of it was but a place for official and civil work; a government building. However, the elevator lead them to a different world. Glitter and bright gold lights paved the way for the two: leading them to the red carpet and the party halls. The guests – seemingly conversing away with their silver tongues – gave away a mixture of echoes from their exchange, and Japan’s own futuristic style gave a completely different feel to the occasion.

The same man who Hynek met recently was the first to walk up to them as he found groups of people across the halls.

“Good evening, Mister Hynek, and Missus Felix. How do you like it here? Quite different from Egypt, I hope?”

“I rather prefer Egypt’s weather compared to here,” answered Hynek. “But it is quite nice with all the people. You never know who you might meet along the way.”

“Well, we cannot help it that our country has this issue with the clouds… and now we’re having some storm warnings.” The man sighed. “We have some of the most esteemed members of our society, and even leaders of the Shrine Organization, if that pleases you. Alice-sama has also made an appearance.”

“It does. I would like to have a word with them about their plans.” answered Hynek.

“Would you permit me to escort you to them? I have met some of these esteemed members, for which I consider myself lucky if I say so myself,” the gentleman offered.

“Yes, you may. I would do well to introduce myself to those that run this city,” answered Hynek. It made him wonder what good governments were in any civilization nowadays. The leaders had as much power as the people that backed them.

“Then, let us be on our way.”

Hynek and Felix then followed the gentleman across the halls. They stopped before a certain group of people that seemed to be conversing among one another. A few of the men wore temple garb for a reason Hynek could not comprehend. Were they members of the Shrine Organization?

“Ahh, is that who I think it is?” asked the man donned in a priestly uniform, an aged man, but his voice carried in it an unmistakable vigor. “Allow me to guess: Hynek Tamas, yes?” he guessed. “It is a pleasure to make your acquaintance. I am the administrator managing mundane matters regarding the Shrine in Japan. My name is Munakata Takeuchi.”

Hynek bowed slightly and smiled. “The one and only,” answered Hynek. “And this is my wife Felix. It is a pleasure to meet you Munakata Takeuchi.”

“A pleasure to meet you to two, mi’lady,” the old man greeted Felix. “So, what do you think of our city so far?” he asked, turning to Hynek, “Beautiful, is it not?”

Hynek nodded back at Munakata. “It is. Far different from my own. Maybe a little too organized for my own personal tastes, but that has its advantages,” answered Hynek.

“Fluidity and properness comes with being organized. Complexity is completely acceptable in this regard, of course. Such essential elements are required for a running system, Hynek Tamas,” Alice said. She attempted to sound as polite as possible. She didn’t sound as monotone as before, which contradicted Hynek’s initial impression of her.

“I suppose you have a point, I’m just a tad old-fashioned,” answered Hynek with a chuckle. “The people seem happy enough, and the food cuisine isn’t bad either. So you must be doing something right around here.”

“We have flourished with no international trades for years,” Alice stated proudly. Tsuruko, who stood behind her, gaped. It was the first time she’d seen Alice exhibit a clear emotion, and Tsuruko couldn’t help but wonder if it was all an act.

Looking to the woman behind Alice, Hynek raised a brow. “And who is this quiet young lady behind you?” asked Hynek.

“Ah, I am Tsuruko, daughter of the Fuyuo family.” She bowed, almost reaching a 90 degree angle. “It is my utmost honour to be able to meet people like you.”

“Polite, and well spoken as well?” answered Hynek, bowing slightly in response. “It is a pleasure to meet you as well.”

“Ahaha, you flatter… but if I would say, I don’t live by any other way.” Tsuruko produced a faint smile. She’d met so many new people today, and she didn’t want to seem unnatural.

“I try my best to, in good company of course,” answered Hynek. “Though, there is a time when we all must act out of character.”

“There is, indeed,” Tsuruko nodded. “But in all other times, one must abide by their own rules of living…” She shook her head. “Ah, pardon me.”

“That is quite alright. It is better to say what is on one's mind,” answered Hynek. “So may I ask what is on the schedule for this evening?”

“I assume you were called for the †˜observation’?” Alice asked, the same monotone voice back.

“Yes, have I missed it?” asked Hynek looking around at the party.

“No, only a select few are allowed into the room,” Munakata interjected. “It isn’t a sight for everyone to see. However, we would very much appreciate your insight.”

“Lead the way,” answered Hynek, a bit excited, and it showed on his face.

Hynek was led to a completely empty hall now. Empty in terms of occupying people. The only ones that were here, were but the people who guided him here. Munakata, Alice, Tsuruko, and at some point her father had joined them.

There was a very large television screen display hanging from the ceiling of the ornamentally decorated hall. The scene on it particularly showed a vehicle that levitated across the transparent road that ran across the sky. Hynek recognized the girl on its back seats when the screen zoomed in and showed Natsu’s face.

“Gentlemen, that is our new Time Warrior here,” Alice narrated, acting as the guide to the men and women gathered to watch this †˜inspection’ of a show. “Her public identity is known as Kazehaya Natsu. Her occupation is both student and idol. Some of you here this evening may have seen her on media already.” The rest of the guests were asked to take a seat on the sofas prepared for them.

“I even met her before, my goodness,” a certain someone exclaimed.

Hynek brought a hand up to his chin and leaned back into his seat. “I sensed nothing from her before at the restaurant,” said Hynek in a hushed tone. Felix was probably able to hear him, but the other spectators were paying too much attention to the screen.

“I was not expecting her to be a Time Warrior of all people, Master Tamas,” Felix commented. “It seems like Japan intends to test her somehow.”

“Coming into one's power is a terrifying experience. If this becomes too much for her. I want you to be ready,” said Hynek in Arabic.

“Really?” Felix questioned in Arabic, raising an eyebrow. “I’ve heard that Time Warriors usually fall unconscious when they come into their powers.”

“And doing so in a city full of people, and put on display like this?” replied Hynek. “I’m glad my ascension was under better circumstances.”

“This is but an observation, I doubt Japan wishes to dispose of their own possible asset so easily and readily and make a simple show out of it,” Felix replied, sounding more skeptical.

“I pray that you are right,” answered Hynek.

Beside Hynek on the other sofa was Tsuruko’s father, and Tsuruko herself who sat beside him, hence she was the closest to Hynek aside from Felix.

“Father, I suppose I should be listening intently… but what of this am I involved with?” Tsuruko quietly nudged towards her father, speaking in a soft silent voice while maintaining her body gestures.

“I suppose you are involved with Alice-sama, and was thus permitted to be here,” her father answered. “She’d eventually have to make her way to the field. I am going to have to request you to aid her when that happens.”

“Ah, that need not be questioned.” Tsuruko glanced at her father. “For I’ll always be by her side no matter the circumstance…” She then closed both eyes for a moment: “Is there going to be battle?”

“Apparently.” Her father gave a nod. “She is going to be put to the test.”

“Oh…” Tsuruko’s face wore a worrisome expression. “I wonder if I’m going to be such a burden to her again.”

“Let us hope that you aren’t, but be sure to learn from her,” her father said, sighing.

Then there was a bright light, not from the lights of the hall but the television display. When it subsided; the battle had begun. Natsu’s eyes glowed and she wore an expression of madness like never before. She conjured a purple bow from spiritual energy and begun shooting people left and right with projectiles that looked more like lasers than arrows to the viewers. The European forces that assaulted her were being intercepted.

“The battle has now started, I shall now begin to evaluate her skills and abilities, and make a report in time,” Alice stated.

“...She seems far more than capable of handling herself?” Felix said to Hynek, but it took her time to articulate the question while sounding calm. In all honesty, she was beyond surprised that a Time Warrior could be so destructive.

“Ha! The young are so full of surprises,” said Hynek.

“Here we go again… is what I wish I could’ve said, but this… well, I guess it is what it is,” commented Tsuruko, as she braced for what seemed like another overwhelmingly surreal fight to her.

As Aramus was told, the location was full of smaller buildings. This was indeed an outskirt. The lights had stopped working, with only a few making the area hardly visible. There was perhaps sunlight beyond the dark sky, giving the area a grey hue that helped little with visibility in the rain.

The storm raged violently as it rained relentlessly, and thunder rumbled fiercely across the sky, shortly illuminating the landscapes.

The team landed over the wet streets when Takeru signalled with his hand. There were traces of blood all across the place, despite the rain washing over them.

Aramus looked just beside his foot, and found a corpse of a student. There were large holes in him, whoever he was. The poor child perished against an absolute power. One that a child like him wasn’t meant to go against. With an eye completely destroyed – enough to show the solid pavement behind it – he couldn’t tell if he had seen the face of said deceased student before the battle.

He clicked his tongue in annoyance, that familiar battle haze overtaking him as Aramus took a look at the devastation around him. “They aren’t meant to be here, none of them are ready for this.” He seethed, the words barely audible in the rain.

Takeru simply gave Aramus a glance, looked down to the corpse, and then straight to find the three survivors of the spy squad.

“As planned, we’ll be joining you all to provide support,” the man – the current leader of Team A – said from under the hood of his cloak. “Currently no one is engaged, but as you can see, some had charged before the order was issued at the sight of the Time Warrior.”

The Spirit Seer then stepped up from behind the leader, and spoke up in turn. “It seems like she is on the move; searching for us. We should stage an ambush.”

Aramus glared at the team leader, eyes practically daggers but instead spoke to Takeru. “What do you think?”

“You can find the Time Warrior, yes?” Takeru asked, facing the Spirit Seer.

“Yes,” she answered, sounding calm. “I am able to sense her. Her spiritual energy is as enormous as the last time.”

“Well, I think it is worth a shot, then,” Takeru answered Aramus. “You guys stay under cover,” he said, facing the students. “Be in the vicinity to act.” He then turned to the teacher beside him. “Aramus, I’ll count on you to distract her,” Takeru requested. “I will take her up from behind. Is that alright with you?”


“I like how you word these things,” Aramus said, mirth reaching his eyes. “Alright then, I’ll be your bait.”

“Alright, let’s move out,” Takeru said, a smirk coming across his face as he took up his fist, it seemed to be itching to crush something.

Natsu was walking across the streets, eternally showered by the relentless cold rain, and lit up by occasional flash of thunder. Her eyes were alight and her expression held an intense frown.

Aramus hid behind an alley as he peeked at his target. The girl’s body resembled that of any of his students back in the Eastern Magic Academy, Aramus thought, looking at her, as she approached him. With her height and her clothes, which adhered to the latest trend, she would have fit right in with the Academy. It was her expression that stood out.

He looked at her with pity and no small amount of anger, that this girl would be the bearer of Sagittarius saddened him. He steeled himself, his trusty grimoire opening as it drew upon his energy. Aramus clenched a fist, looked up at the thunderous clouds, and swiftly brought it down; a bolt of lightning streaking towards Sagittarius.

Natsu – possessed by Sagittarius, turned up to find the rumbling thunder gathering under the command of magecraft – raised her arm up to the sky, and allowed the thunder to fall over her directly, and fearlessly. Clenching her fist, the lightning was crushed with what seemed like pure strength itself. However, the spirit was careless enough to not realize that it’d put a toll on her ears.

Aramus grit his teeth in annoyance. So much for bait. He felt naked against her power, crushing a bolt like that effortlessly.

Natsu raised her right arm and positioned it facing a shop to the right, spiritual energy gathering around it upon the spirit’s command. A purple bow formed, accompanied by a bracelet-like ring that attached itself to her wrist, connecting the bow with her. The recurve bow was then leveled to Aramus’ direction. The bow burned intensely as Natsu flexed her fingers after closing them, five arrows were born from thin air under the bow, and shot away towards the Magic Magister.

The arrows burned through the structure Aramus hid behind as if they were metal melted by very hot flames, prompting him to escape immediately. He twisted and weaved through the air, grimoire and robes moving erratically due to his motions. Aramus could feel the dangerous energy of the projectiles, trying his best to dodge them. All but one missed, the final arrow burning his flesh as it pierced him in the left hand.

He stumbled, feeling the flesh crackle and boil. Gritting his teeth through the pain, Aramus continued running deeper into the alley, trying to fade into the shadows. With the way his hand was now, it wouldn’t be possible to cast certain spells.

However, he was far from safe even under the veil of darkness. More arrows came his way soon enough. Apparently, the spirit manipulating Natsu’s body could predict to an extent the direction he’d go to, but since she couldn't see him past the alley; her attacks missed, burning an entire house in the process.

Aramus skid to a halt, his good hand reaching beneath his robes and pulling out an ornate feathered fan, feathers seemingly alive in the thunderstorm. A small gust was brought up with a swing, sweeping through the house and pulling debris along with it towards Sagittarius. He hoped the swirling winds would befuddle her somewhat. After all, there were some parts of her that were still human.

Sagittarius looked through Natsu’s eyes to peer towards Aramus, before narrowing her eyes to get a good look at the figure of the man. It was hard to see in this storm, but then she took notice that she had other company. Looking behind, she found faces of children around the age of Natsu, all glaring at her. She felt the killer’s intent from them, which warranted her attention. She turned, and faced her enemies.

The glowing eyes brought fear to their hearts, but not enough to stop them, for they were blinded by the prospect for glory.

“Heed my words, humans, your actions are foolish, bringing me down will change not the fate of this world, nor will it grant you any benefit worth your life,” she spoke solemnly, hoping emptily that someone would come to their senses, but alas, not one’s wands, staves, or grimoires moved an inch. Instead, they begun casting spells.

“So be it.”

Aramus then heard a noise – a very familiar one, at that – followed by a scream of a dear student.

Aramus growled, pointing the fan at Sagittarius and loosing a lightning bolt. This time it struck true and electricity danced across her body. He screamed loud enough into the storm for Sagittarius to hear: “Your target is here, Time Warrior. Let us dance to the beat of this storm!”

Sagittarius turned to Aramus, with two students still behind her. She then looked down at the three that fell down due to the showering electricity. They were too weak, and she wasn’t the type who’d attack them once they were down. However, two were still left. Sagittarius attacked one of the students with an arrow possessing spiritual content, forcing them back. It was her way of expressing that fighting with her was a pointless action. Next, she turned back to the wielder of the fan and conjurer – or what she would claim as the manipulator – of the winds, and shot away the rest of the projectiles she created.

Aramus dodged again, his movements and footwork a dance with the fan. With the wind and rain around him, he felt he was in his element. The arrows sizzled as they went past, one even burning through some of his robe. He laughed maniacally, the bare misses serving to fuel his battle lust.

Sagittarius faced Aramus in full, turning away and leaving the students behind her back. She was finally starting to note Aramus as a proper challenge against her power.

“I shall admit: you are fast. However…”

Sagittarius’ head was grasped from behind. She was taken aback as her eyes turned to the corner, but she could hardly see who it was.

“Got you,” a crazed, smiling Takeru said, pushing her down to the solid and cold asphalt street. The street broke; cracks resembling a spider web formed that ran all the way to the house that was on flames, now mostly cooled down by the storm’s rain.

He then picked the girl up, and struck her repeatedly. Punches, kicks, chops; he utilized various martial arts before he gave her a decisive blow that blew her meters away from him and the students.

“What are you kids doing here?! Who told you to come out? Get away from here!” Takeru yelled to the students, an expression that clearly implied that he had no idea how they’d decide to approach their target this soon.

The two students that survived the lightning rays nodded and ran off into the alleys just behind them.

Takeru then faced Sagittarius, who was picking herself up from the street.

“To think she resisted my spell…”

Time passed ever since the fight started, and Alice made explanations regarding how the battle went. Of course, †˜how’ the battle went was plainly visible, but Alice had strangely gotten a hold on the British intel on their plans, for which explaining contained more than just what seemed obvious. Alice briefed how Natsu was previously injured in an ambush in the morning, after which she was helped to recover in the hospital. Noting the possibility of being attacked, they staged a plan to have Natsu put out as bait to lure the British forces out. Apparently several teams were sighted and they planned to lure Natsu to a better location for combat.

“The identity of this man – according to the records – is Aramus Valmark. A Magic Magister who has been teaching in the Eastern Magic Academy here in Japan,” Alice explained, as Aramus and Natsu fought each other on the screen. Natsu shot arrows away and Aramus displayed impressive finesse in dodging the attacks in succession. “He is also Tsuruko’s teacher, I suppose,” she added. Some of the guests turned to Tsuruko for a moment before looking back to the show.

“He… is…?” Tsuruko squinted her eyes for a moment before looking more carefully. She took no notice of the people who looked at her. Countless questions swirled in her head: “What is he doing there… or rather, why is he fighting that girl…?”

“The ambush party – most of which had its members killed by the Time Warrior – needed replacements, hence students and teachers originally with England affiliations were invited, thus the situation,” Alice answered, noting the questions Tsuruko almost whispered. She picked up her phone and received a call, taking some moments away from giving explanations. “It turns out that the team has decided to cast a large tidal wave on our Time Warrior.”

“They put up a storm to make it hard for her to see, and now this?” the man who spoke to Hynek first in the party said.

“This is getting rather out of hand,” Munakata commented. “Alice-sama…”

“Understood, I shall visit the area myself, just in case.” She then turned to Tsuruko, wordlessly asking if she’d come along.

Tsuruko nodded and proceeded with Alice, following closely behind.

Hynek sighed and stood up. “Come Felix, it is time we took our leave,” said Hynek as he offered his hand to his wife.

Felix gave a silent nod and stood up, taking up Hynek’s hand.

“Oh dear, you’re leaving already, Hynek Tamas?” Munakata questioned, not looking back to Hynek.

“No offense, but I would much rather watch this game courtside,” said Hynek with a smirk. “Your gathering is top notch, if that is at all a consolation.”

“No, a king is free to observe as he sees fit, I merely offered a more comfortable way to watch,” the old man responded, chuckling. “We will make preparations for her treatment, Alice-sama, please send her to the usual hospital when this is all over.”

Aramus waved his injured hand in the rain, testing it. It would not be as good as before but it was usable. He entered a stance and with two sharp movements, drew a torrent of water from the rain all around them. He shot it at Sagittarius, the stream hitting her in the side before she could recover completely and sent her into a nearby wall. “Damnit, why does she have to be so tough.”

Anyone less agile than Aramus would have already been turned into a pincushion, judging from the multiples holes in the ground and houses around him.

“One after the other keeps coming…” Sagittarius noted. Her anger made Natsu’s veins twitch. After she picked herself up, she looked Takeru in the eye, and vanished.

“...What? Where is she?” Takeru asked to no one in particular, turning his head in all directions; searching for his target. Did she retreat? Run away for her dear life at last? Or was she still somewhere in the vicinity, preparing for a sneak attack? His final notion was proven when the girl appeared an inch away from him. So close that he couldn’t even think of countering, nor dodging. The eyes of the girl were before him, it was terrifying from so close. Her palm rested over his stomach – gently, ironically – sending him away with a powerful blow. Appearing beside Aramus, Sagittarius thrust at his cheek, flattening his face and striking him back to the building behind him. He hit the wall in a shower of mortar before dropping to the ground, the impact knocking him senseless for a moment. Aramus could taste blood in his mouth, rubbed the spot where Sagittarius had struck with a wince.

He rose gingerly on his feet and out of the corner of his eye, Aramus could make out the form of the Time Warrior. The air crackled with energy as he turned to face her, robes flaring as Aramus loosed the energy with a sweep of his fan. The supercharged energy surged forth, illuminating the alley as it struck Sagittarius dead centre. The lightning turned the area around her into steam, but it billowed off the Time Warrior otherwise not looking much worse for wear.

“There are some places you don’t touch, especially not my face,” he muttered, using his free hand to feel for any more injuries. So far there were none but pain would come later when he tried to eat, Aramus just knew it.

“Faces. I find them an indicator of indecence. Men and women court based on it often, they invoke lecherous thoughts…” the spirit replied, a voice that was mixed with both the spirit’s and Natsu’s spoke. It maintained a calm tone, but carried with it a commanding nature.

Aramus laughed in the pouring rain, spitting out some blood as he did so. He cocked his head to one side, trying to get a better look at the girl. “And yet they are so very necessary. They are one portion of our individuality, a way to differentiate one from another. However, I will probably have trouble eating after this ordeal thanks to you.”

“Hmph,” she mocked. “If perchance you lives,” Sagittarius replied. “You humans would’ve remained unharmed. It is, naturally, the price you pay for engaging me in combat.”

“You speak as though most of us want to be here. Trust me when I say that,” Aramus scoffed, “I would very much rather return to the role of educator, but there are certains things to take care of.”

“Then return from whence you came, why don’t you? Instead of risking your miniscule life for this farce?” questioned she, the spirit, feeling rather confused. “Has the False Prophet beguiled you so much that you are forced to make way to fight a girl who didn’t raise a finger in violence out of her own volition to begin with?”

Aramus looked up at the clouds above, feeling the rain pouring on him as Sagittarius spoke. “There are times when the choices given to us are not much of a choice at all.” He glanced back at her, a hint of sadness on his face. “There is no honor or glory to be gained in slaying a young girl but I have been ordered otherwise and would not so readily fail in my mission.”

“Um, Master Tamas, I believe it is rather unwise to tread these rainy paths at the moment,” Felix voiced her opinion. “I do not know what technology allows them to view that battle in such visual clarity, but I doubt that we’d be able to view it in the same manner with the ongoing storm,” she elaborated, walking a step behind the old king. The two momentarily exited the premises known to be the government building. Apparently this was a building often targeted by terrorists, but their attacks were repelled every time by the shamans and guards employed by the government.

“We aren’t going to merely watch, Felix,” answered Hynek. “I plan to participate.”

“But, how?” she asked. “Considering what we watched, she is fairly competent as a warrior, albeit I am not sure what caused the change in her. It is as though she is someone else compared to who we met recently… for I was certain that we met the girl with the same face last night. Regardless, I fear that it may be a waste of our time and effort. I am aware of your other motives, but I am merely reminding you of the disadvantageous aspects of your plans.”

Hynek stopped for a moment, and turned to Felix. “I have a bad feeling about all this. It’s just a gut feeling,” said Hynek. “I want to be there incase my worst fears come to light.”

“Your… worst fears, and that would be?” Felix inquired – feeling somewhat anxious for her master now – looking gravely at Hynek.

“In time Felix. I would not want to worry you anymore than I already have,” replied Hynek. “Especially if my fears turn out to be unfounded.” Turning back around he made haste for the outside.

“Wait… Master Tamas!” Felix exclaimed, following after her master as he abruptly walked off. She could imagine the other wives grinning at her for not learning her master’s worst fears. What a clear defeat it was for her! However, it was too soon to give up, regardless of how she struggled to regain her composure.

Once they reached outside and to the streets, she looked left and right, and the area seemed rather congested despite the weather conditions.

“Shall I get us a taxi, Master Tamas?” she asked. Taking off his jacket he covered Felix with it to protect her from the wind.

“Please do,” answered Hynek.

Felix nodded, and went off to find a taxi, despite the fact that the street was congested. It took about fifteen minutes before she returned and beckoned her master to follow her, since the taxi she found could probably not come up here to receive them.

Hynek soon found himself inside the flying vehicle that ran across the transparent streets in the skies. He felt strange considering that it was levitating, and not running on ground, but he was somewhat used to the feeling since he rode airplanes many times before.

“This is amazing. To think that humans would come this far,” said Hynek. “Without that strange event I think they would have wiped themselves out before this.”

“Wipe themselves out? Which strange event?” Felix asked, not quite sure what Hynek was talking about now. “You mean the moment this country changed overnight?”

“Yes” answered Hynek. “Whatever caused it I pray doesn’t happen to Egypt. I rather like the way it looks now.”

“That I agree,” Felix nodded deeply in agreement. “I fear for the pyramids in the future. I’d rather not see them gone.”

“I will have to put more effort into preserving them, if that does become the case,” answered Hynek. “Took a long enough time to build them.”

“Indeed,” Felix answered, “but you never know when a missile or something similar may demolish them overnight,” she jokingly added. Hynek smirked at Felix’s comment as he turned to the window. They were getting closer, and as such the storm was getting more intense.