Fate/Blackened Sugar

[AnonymousRabbit]

[] Let Archer go deeper into the tunnel and then collapse it on top of her.
-[] Hans knowledge check: Will this actually work against servants?
--[] If not, have Assassin set up an ambush.

If Archer was here, then it's time to get to work. Collapsing the tunnel etched with numerous runes that would trigger spiritual and magic based attacks all at once upon hitting the ground. The combined weight of the fall as well as your own magical traps would be enough to stall her for a bit and gauge her reaction.

While Archer could avoid the physical fall with her Spirit Form, she would be vulnerable to your magecraft soon after. She would find it wiser to remain on her physical form and withstand the fall using her immortal body.

You need to know what she'll do first or if she had any tricks up in her sleeve rather than this being the deciding blow. It'll take more than this to bring down a Servant of that level, especially Archer.

"I'm triggering the collapse," you responded to Assassin as you held out your cane and struck the ground, a burst of prana leaving your body and letting trails of lines light up on the wall into one passage.

Assassin vacated the area as you focused on the tunnel Archer was walking in. You triggered the explosives as well as the blast runes you inscribed on the wall.

An explosion rang deep in one of the tunnels and you could see a fiery blast erupt from it. You raised a barrier to hold it back while Miyu took cover behind you. That should keep Archer busy for now if she can dig her way out.

"I can still feel her but she's no doubt under the rubble. I will continue observing- Huh?"

You frowned, "Assassin?"

"I... Archer has friends."

.....
....
...

Assassin remained hidden in an alcove at the edge of the collapsed tunnel. She had evaded the collapse by using her familiars to spy on the entrances and she had caught Archer spreading something around her when she fell.

Now Assassin was seeing what they were exactly. They started out as formless pieces of matter, only to resemble flesh a moment later. A human form began to take shape and slowly bear the appearance of a corpse, rising from the ankle deep waters and moan.

Assassin watched Undead stepped forth and groaned as they walked forward, some others shifting beneath the rubble and begin pushing out the stones and debris. Bodies began to appear and she slowly realized what was happening.

These were people...

The traps laid down by Hans activated and bolts of darkness rained down from the walls beyond the debris. They struck and cleaved through the undead, whittling down their numbers as a low chuckle came from the debris.

Archer was going to start digging her way out now. Assassin narrowed her gaze before she summoned her own snakes to descend and move towards the walking corpses, smashing and biting them in half.

The serpent roared before crushing more of the corpses as they emerged from the rubble.

"Master, Archer has brought some undead with her as support. They're currently exhibiting low aggression but there's no telling what they would do," Assassin reported as she continued to observe, "It would be best to be prepared."

"I'm detecting numerous entities entering the tunnels. I'm activating my defensive traps to hold them off," Hans replied with an annoyed tone, "Tell me if there's any development."

"Understood," Assassin replied as she watched from the shadows.

.....
....
...

Minerva smiled as she sat on the edge of a building looking down at the entrance to the water reservoir tunnels she sent Archer into. To think that boy had this planned in the event his grandfather died, it was nothing short of impressive.

What she didn't like though was that she had to play by his tune. No matter, she'll just go along with it. Standing up, she turned to her side and spoke.

"Ready, Saber?" She asked as her long orange hair danced in the wind.

Saber reappeared by her side and nodded, "Of course. Let us meet our foes in battle once more."

.....
....
...

Manaka watched as she held her chest with a pained look. Berserker didn't miss that as he turned his gaze upon her.

"Think this is the right move?" Berserker asked with a raised eyebrow.

"Hmph, it'll be fine," Manaka told him as she looke ahead.

Berserker glanced at the runes raining down bolts of energy down at the Undead. Hans was a meticulous man to utilize the terrain to his advantage, even against such numbers of foes. The Servant smirked and wondered what kind of strategist such an individual could be in his army.

In any case, it was almost time. Through the bodies and runes, two people stood at the entrance of the tunnel. Manaka raised her hand and began chanting just as Berserker grinned and drew his weapons.

A flash of lightning erupted and smashed straight through the barriers Manaka placed just as Berserker utilized his full strength to smash down the lightning bolt. This caused a shockwave which sent the waters flying to the side.

Saber was sent landing in the ground hard as he looked up to see Berserker wrapped in crimson energy.

"Ready for Round 3?" Berserker growled as he met the Saber's gaze.

"Of course, let us begin!" He replied as the two men engaged one another.

Clashing and striking one another, they were a blur of red and blue. Manaka looked ahead to see Minerva walking by and placing a hand on the wall. The runes Hans had placed turned black and were forced to dissipate.

Manaka stared at her before pain went through her chest. Grimacing she breathed, "Not yet. Stay down."

Berserker cleaved through the ground and parried aside Saber's blade to his neck. The two men moved close as Berserker smashed his sword against the Oriental warrior, pushing him back with sheer strength before they bounced off one another.

Saber became lightning itself and cut as Berserker smirked and narrowing avoided the corner's blade through sheer instinct. He went beneath Saber's guard and kicked him hard enough to smash him into a wall.

Berserker stood tall while Saber chuckled as he rose from where he crashed.

"Excellent," Saber smiled widely as his sword began to crackle with electricity.

Manaka watched as the pain in her chest grew. Not yet. Not until the night is finished at least...

.....
....
...

You sighed as you looked down the tunnels beneath you. Miyu remained silent the entire time while you could hear the signs of battle in the distance.

It seems like Minerva had engaged Manaka on her own. You looked at the time on your phone. You still had twenty five minutes left before the broadcast ended. Your command seal continued to burn. Now it was just matter of who else will show up.

"Hans," Miyu spoke behind you, causing you to turn her way. She gave you a serious look as she said, "You said that by the end of this war, I would have decided on things on my own, yes?"

"I did say that," you replied with a nod.

"Then, I've decided. I don't know if you're the one worth the Grail's powers for, but I do know that you'll bet everything to win. That's why, I want you to know that if you ever put yourself or Assassin in danger, I want you to withdraw," Miyu said as she met your gaze.

"Withdraw?" You asked her with a frown.

"You can't defend me forever. I can see you slowly being chipped apart. Taking me, defending me, you've fought the brunt of most of the competitors all this time. Something has to give," Miyu said as she clenched her fist, "If it's between me and surviving this battle, then you better survive. That way..."

You can still take her back.

You stared at her and smiled. You walked towards her and lightly knocked her head with your cane, causing her to yelp.

"Don't worry. It'll be fine. I'll protect you and stay alive... All of us will," you assured her as you knelt before her with a smile.

.....
....
...

Assassin's eye widened as the undead doubled over to hold their stomachs. It was then that rotten veins bulged beneath their skin as their limbs grew muscle. Their eyes burned red as they bared their teeth and screamed.

They began to move faster and dig their fingers into the giant snake's scales and rip them off.

A voice echoed from the rubble.

Mermaid's Curse (False Immortality)​

The Undead became more aggressive and roared as they fought against the Serpents. Blasts of sound came from the rubble.

Assassin held on to her weapon and spoke, "Master, it's Archer... She's coming! The undead have also also become aggressive!"

.....
....
...

That was faster than you expected. But you managed to stall time for even a few minutes. You need to decide your next move.

The Ninth Night​

[] Have Assassin lure Archer some more. Collapse more tunnels under her while you and Miyu retreated.
[] Have Assassin engage Archer on their current spot. You need to buy time, you can only rely on Assassin for this.
[] Contact Manaka and have her let loose a Blackened Servant to assist in holding off Archer. This was no time to be stingy!
[] Withdraw your forces deeper into the tunnels and collapse them on top of your foes. Continue this until they're where you are. You can help one another if everyone's in one location.

 

[AnonymousRabbit]

[] Withdraw your forces deeper into the tunnels and collapse them on top of your foes. Continue this until they're where you are. You can help one another if everyone's in one location.

You replied fast, "Retreat! Get back here and keep her stalled, I'm collapsing the tunnels. I'll give Manaka the heads up as well."

"Understood. I'll be ready," Assassin said in turn as you cut your connection with her. You then tapped your cane and spoke to Manaka.

"Can you hear me?" You asked as you frowned, "Change of plans, I need you to run back to the reservoir."

"Seems like you're taking this seriously. Very well. I'll bring Berserker with me," Manaka said with a chuckle.

.....
....
...

Manaka held out her hand and had it fly to the center of the tunnel. Berserker rolled back and parried aside Saber's weapon as he jumped away. The light burst and Minerva was forced to cover her eyes. Saber grunted while Berserker kicked him hard to push him back before turning to rush towards his Master.

"This better be good!" He said as he carried Manaka in his arms.

"I'll leave behind a present," Manaka said as she held out her hand and magic circles began to form on the ground, creating constructs from the materials found under the water.

They moved and rushed Saber down, prompting the servant to cut them apart. However their sheer numbers was enough to deter him from pursuing Manaka just as the tunnel exploded.

Berserker grunted as he looked back to see the entire tunnel collapse behind him. He cursed as he ran faster while carrying his Master.

......
.....
....

You listened to the sound of explosions at the distance upon detecting two presences come close. They were both your allies just as the tunnels fell down completely.

"Miyu, stay here. I'm going down," you replied as you vaulted over the railings of the catwalk you were on.

You cast floating charms to cushion your fall, allowing you to reach ground level just as Berserker and Manaka stopped. Assassin landed nearby as she had her blade drawn while looking at the tunnels.

"This won't stop them," Berserker said as he set down his Master.

You shook your head, "No but we're making good time. There's ten minutes left until the broadcast ends. We just have to hold them off here and then bail."

"We have a few minutes at most. I'll provide the heavy lifting," Manaka said as she held up her hand and the waters bubbled with corruption.

You and Assassin stared as two Blackened Servant's appeared. One was a young man with wild blonde hair and golden eyes, he was carrying a dagger with him as he glared at you. The second was a beautiful Valkyrie wielding a heart bladed spear. Her golden eyes swept over you before the two of them faced Manaka.

She spread her arms and welcomed them warmly.

"What do you think, Hans? Is this enough muscle for you?" She asked with a look your way, "This is Brynhildr and Hyde."

"Good enough," you replied as you turned to the tunnels while the Servants got ready. Assassin drew her sword while Berserker readied his.

The Blackened Berserker, Hyde, grinned while holding his dagger while Brynhildr jumped to the catwalk above the reservoir, standing before Miyu. The girl's eyes widened before she looked down to where you were going to fight.

The tunnels were blasted open as the Undead poured in. It was time.

The Undead that came on were dressed as modern people, bearing wounds and bruises from the tunnel collapsing on them, they stood up and howled in sheer madness.

"They're being enhanced by a Noble Phantasm. It's made them stronger and more resilient," Assassin reported as she grimaced.

"Good target practice then," you answered as you tapped your cane on the ground, "I came prepared."

Sigils and runes appeared on the walls of the reservoir, lighting up and emitting a whir of sound. You opened your eyes as you rained down death upon your foes, shooting black bolts of energy and fiery arrows from above.

They blazed through the air, punctured the bodies of the undead and knocked them back. Their limbs were shredded and torn while stomachs were rupture open by magical bolts.

They tried running but fell short, roaring and wailing in pain as the waters turned red from their blood. The assault ended just as the last Undead was knocked down into the water. You cursed under your breath as they simply stood up again despite being riddled with holes.

"Guess it's our turn then?" Berserker asked as he walked forward.

"We'll support you from here. Take out their numbers and go for their heads, crush them," you said as Assassin got ready.

The Undead howled as they sprinted towards you. Assassin moved alongside Berserker and the two of them began the slaughter. Berserker crushed and smashed with his swords while Assassin cut and slashed through the opposition.

She used her kunai alongside her sword to cut and breakthrough the ranks of the Undead to begin her fight there. She threw bombs and weaved through swipes and punches to cut off arms and tear away at heads.

She held her sword up, a murderous gaze filling her eyes before she cut through an Undead and left it headless. Assassin was splashed with blood as she darted from one corpse to another, scarlet liquid danced in the air as she moved.

Berserker pummeled and crushed through the undead before they could even touch him, delivering ruthless blows as he stabbed and smashed his swords. He dragged them along the ground and split bodies, felled monstrous undead and sent many flying back with broken bones.

He slashed and chunks of meat just fell off the corpses as he slaughtered his way through those that were making it through the collapsed tunnels. He fought and fought, never stopping as the waters around him and Assassin turned crimson.

That was when the tunnels themselves were blasted open. You cursed under your breath as you looked at your phone. There was still a few minutes until the broadcast ended.

You looked ahead to see lightning crackle and blast out of a tunnel. Berserker moved and clashed with Saber their eyes meeting as he smashed the other Servant way.

A second explosion rang.

BOOM

Archer stepped out of the collapsed tunnel with her glaive behind her back and her bow in hand. She held up her hand.

"Rise and shine," she declared as she held out her bleeding hand, " Mermaid's Curse(False Immortality)."

You watched as the fallen Undead gasped and choked in blood, only to rise up once more. Archer let her wound heal as she drew her bow.

Berserker and Assassin moved.

"Go! Hyde!" Manaka ordered and the Blackened Servant joined the fray.

Archer fired her arrows in quick succession while Assassin dodged and weaved through them, slashing through the air and cutting one up. The Undead moved to surround Chiyome but Hyde laughed as he ripped through them while Saber and Berserker exchanged blows.

You watched as the battle unfolded. Your eyes widening as Heroic Spirits clashed with one another. Blades were crossed, arrows were shot, and blood sang in the air. This was it... You felt a fire spark in your chest.

This was indeed a Holy Grail War...

"BROTHER!"

You looked your way towards one Tunnel to find Minerva emerging from it. She had an excited look on her face as she wielded a gun and a glove as a mystic code.

"It's time we settle this, you and me! I won't let you run away again!" Minerva shouted as she walked past the corpses to get towards you.

Berserker and Assassin moved to intercept her but Saber and Archer kept them at bay. The Undead swarmed Hyde as he roared and ripped through their ranks.

You tightened your grip on your cane.

"Well now... That's certainly something... Hans, that's a scary smile you have on your lips," Manaka noted as she stood by your side. She leaned to your ear and whispered, "What are you going to do?"

You were... Smiling?

You loosened your hold on your cane as you walked forward as you spoke, "Simple... I'm going to kill her."

Manaka watched your back but you knew that she had the widest smile in her lips. After all, this feeling in your chest wasn't driven by reason or intellect.

No.

It was pure selfishness and a twisted desire to crush Minerva.

That was all there is to it.

Berserker dueled Saber, Assassin fought off Archer, you faced Minerva as the two of you met at the center of the battlefield.

There was no words needed.

Minerva drew her gun while you swept your cane on the ground. Freezing the droplets of water, you reinforced your legs as you dashed to the side and launched the icicles at her.

Minerva fired her gun, shooting the icicles out of the air but you already closed in. You unlocked your cane, revealing the hidden blade within it as you used it as a rapier to thrust at her head.

The Doll smiled as she grabbed the blade with her glove with the two of you kicked against one another.

"Show me a good time, Brother!"

"I'm going to kill you, you stupid Doll."

Spoiler: BGM

FATAL BATTLE
VS
SABER
SUSANOO
&
ARCHER
???​

.....
....
...

Assassin noticed that her Master had joined the fight. She closed her eyes and sighed. He just couldn't resist.

She turned her foe and flipped to avoid being shot before throwing her own kunai. Archer smiled and knocked the out of the air with her own arrows before switching her bow for her naginata.

Assassin landed on the ground, splashing the blood soaked water into the air before she slashed upwards, ruining Archer's superior vision. However Archer cut through it, only to find Assassin gone.

She turned to find Chiyome falling from the air with her sword, prompting Archer to turn her weapon and thrust. Blood danced but it came from a serpent instead of a body.

Archer looked down to see Assassin rise up.

"Amazing! You hid underwater?!" She laughed as she faced her foe.

However Assassin was faster than the naginata and thrust her sword.

"Clever. Truly clever," Archer said as she caught the Servant's blade with her palm, blood dripping down from the wound. Archer met Chiyome's gaze and said, "My Master will be pleased with your defeat, but his quarrel isn't with you. He's more interested in that blonde girl behind you."

"Manaka?" Assassin frowned as she tried pulling her sword.

"I see. Is that her name? This will be useful indeed," Archer said before she tore her hand off the sword and let go of her weapon. She swung her fist and forced Assassin to catch it.

"Kill me if you can, Shinobi," Archer taunted as she splashed her blood into the air, "Trust me, you'll have a hard time."

The Undead rose as her blood fell to the waters.

Assassin stood before an entire legion of walking corpses, their bodies being enhanced by Archer's blood and the false immortality. So even her blood can used as a Noble Phantasm...

"Once you fall, it's your Master's head that's next," Archer threatened as she dashed back among her undead soldiers, drawing her bow.

And Assassin spoke...

Free For All
​

[] "I am... A weapon. Don't underestimate my ability to kill, Immortal."
[] "I won't let you. I'll kill you right here. I won't let you touch a single hair on his head, Archer!"
[] "You talk too much. Why don't you try and kill me first, you hag?"
[] "Fine. This ends here, Archer. This curse of mine, I'll let it feast on us both!"
[] Write in...

 

[AnonymousRabbit]

[] "You talk too much. Why don't you try and kill me first, you hag?

Spoiler: BGM

​

"You talk too much. Why don't you try and kill me first, you hag?" Assassin growled as she bared her swords.

Archer smiled and raised her hand to let loose her undead. Assassin felt her blood grow cold as she killed off her hesitation and emotion. The only things that mattered was cutting down those that stood in her way.

Turning her sword, she dashed forward and slashed. Slicing off the arm of one undead, she jumped to drive a kunai into the neck of another before turning to chop off the leg of the next.

One loomed over her and swiped down but she cut through his hand and grabbed him by his clothes, lifting him up before throwing him into a group of corpses. Assassin tensed and dodged a powerful shot by Archer.

So that was her plan.

Assassin moved as she cut and sliced through bodies, ripping through then before grabbing one to use as a shield. However Archer's shots were powerful enough to blow through each person as if they were set paper.

Grabbing the arm of the torn person, Assassin let out a breath and threw the corpse through the battlefield towards Archer. It was blown apart just as a bomb was tossed into the air. It exploded and smoke filled the area, swallowing the many undead whole and allowing Assassin to sink her blades into them one by one.

She cut through them and kicked one onto the smoke, allowing Archer to shoot it as she jumped over the body. Darting forward, Assassin flew and smashed against Archer.

" Crescent Kick(Water Arts)," Assassin turned and spun in the air to sweep her heel over Archer's head.

Landing on the ground, she dragged her blade along the waters and cut up, splashing the air and hitting Archer with her blade. With the water splashed first, Archer dodged the splash but not the blade itself, causing a hot pain to erupt on her neck.

"Too shallow, Shinobi," Archer smirked as she dashed back to draw her naginata. She slashed but Chiyome had jumped and thrown kunai to keep up the pressure, forcing Archer to block. This allowed Assassin to knocked down the naginata and step on it.

Assassin cut and she passed through Arched and slid back. Looking up a chunk of Archer's neck had been severed but the woman still stood. She smiled as she held out her prayer beads.

"Ah... May the Buddha forgive me for this," she whispered as she faced Assassin with a smirk.

.....
....
...

You clashed with Minerva again as she pointed her gun at you. She fired and her bullet was caught by your rune. You were kicked back and you rolled on the ground, only for you to look up as Minerva smashed down her fist on you.

Dodging back, you saw an opening and thrust your sword into her eye. Minerva used her gun to parry the blow, sparks flying between the two of you before you bounced off one another.

You inscribed a rune from a distance, "Ansuz!"

Minerva felt her hand grow hot as her gun was set on fire. You then splashed the ground, freezing the droplets and launching them at her. Minerva clenched her left fist and smashed each one out of the air before shooting towards you.

"Emergency Mode Activate," Minerva laughed as she got close enough to punch you.

"Aegis!" you snapped as you caught her fist with your shield of light.

Minerva smirked as she spoke, "You're not the only one. Aegis!"

A shield of light expanded right in front of your own. The two shields interacted and promptly shattered, giving you and Minerva the chance to meet and clash.

"That broken body can only hold out for so long.... And you chose to fight now?" Minerva giggled as she shook her head, "We'll fulfill your dream for you, Brother. So why don't you just give up? We'll make a new Celine, stronger, better than the last one-"

"Shut up!" You snapped as you stepped forward and pressed your sword against her glove, "I won't have you monsters speak her name. Not after everything you've done to her!"

"But aren't you a monster too?" Minerva asked with an amused look.

You smiled and replied, "Yeah. That's why I'll drag you all to hell with me!"

You turned your sword and imbued it with magical energy. Minerva blinked as you cut through her glove and sliced off her fingers in turn.

Blood danced between you two as she smiled and made a fist with her injured hand and threw a punch. You weaved past it and cut her side as you turned and slid back.

"I see. Then let's dance our way to hell together, Brother!" Minerva said as she spread her arms.

.....
....
...

Manaka felt pain in her chest. She gasped in surprise and fell on her knees. The pain began to deal heavy blows to her mind.

"No. Not yet," Manaka grit her teeth as she struggled to stay up. Hyde continued to slaughter the undead away from her allies but she could feel him relish the fighting more.

She hasn't fully recovered from her battle with Ophelia Phamrsolone. That eye, it turned her connection brittle with this body.

At this rate, the Blackened will lose control.

"Hans... Can you hear me?" She whispered as she looked at the man fighting ahead.

.....
....
...

You slid back from being kicked by Minerva. She moved in and turned, her foot going by fast as you stood up. The two of you glared at one another just as Black Boxes appeared on both of your shoulders.

"Hans... Can you hear me?"

Manaka?

"I don't have much time left. Sorry... At least, I can leave you with something."

You turned her way as she held something before her hands.

Minerva noticed where you were looking and directed her Black Box towards Manaka.

"I'll be... Going to sleep for a little bit."

"Let Calamity dance! Surge and infect, Curses of the World!" Minerva roared as she opened the box of Curses, " Black Box of Calamities(Faux Pandora)."

"Manaka!" You yelled out loud.

Opening
​

[] Strike Minerva with your own Black Box while she was open.
[] Protect Manaka with Elpis, the White Sword that kills Curses.

 

[AnonymousRabbit]

[] Protect Manaka with Elpis, the White Sword that kills Curses.

You watched Minerva raise her box and unleash a black cloud of curses from it. She had cast it first and you needed to catch up and block it. You tossed your sword aside and reached for your own box, firmly grasping it and squeezing.

You didn't open it but instead crushed it in your grasp, the sensation of spikes being driven into your hand making you gasp. But you didn't stop, even as your hand bled from the curses your box held you held within it what truly mattered.

Hope.

" Elpis, White Sword of Hope!(Faux Pandora)," you roared as the black spike turned into white light.

Your hand burned, the flesh from your palms wasting away as you dashed forward and intercepted the cloud of curses. Stomping on the ground, water flew into the air as your circuits burned. Your lungs felt like they were going to give out.

You held Elpis in your hand as it manifested as a sword of pure white light. The cloud of darkness moved in to swallow you. It was the same attack that took your left arm.

You were careless back then but...

"Here I come!" You roared as you swung the sword down from above you.

You saw... A memory.

You cut through the cloud of darkness as scarlet light tore through your vision.

The cloud of curses vanished but instead a girl stood before you. Her hand grasped your left arm and-

The winds howled in your ear as you slashed down. Servants watched as you drove the white sword through the cloud of despair. Saber and Berserker spared a glance at your slash while Archer's eyes widened at the sight of it.

Chiyome stared at you from afar, her eyes in shock.

You slashed through the cloud of curses and wiped them apart. However, the cloud was strong and threatened to swallow your light. Were you getting overwhelmed?!

However a hand supported your own as you glanced to the side. Manaka met your gaze as she nodded, holding your hand as you looked ahead.

"These sort of swords are meant to be used with both hands. I'll lend you mine," Manaka said as she held your hand and pushed with you.

The two of you stepped forward and cut through the cloud of curses, a bolt of light erupting from the blade. Minerva was left surprised before it smashed into her body and sent her flying back.

BOOM

Her body bounced off the floor and rolled to a crouch. The light faded and you were left standing with your hand burned from releasing Elpis as the air was cleansed of negative energy. Manaka gasped as she fell forward, causing you to catch her.

She passed out.

Minerva let out a breath as she held her side, her eyes fixed on you.

"Bravo... Bravo Brother. You were always the one who had a better grasp at this magecraft of ours," Minerva said as she held her side.

"Did they implant that memory into you too when you were manufactured?" You asked as you glared her way.

"Heh..." Minerva smirked as the Servants fought around you. Archer and Assassin clashed before breaking apart from one another, Saber and Berserker traded blows and were sent flying away from each other.

The light which Manaka held reappeared in the air before bursting. This was..!

You were being teleported?!

Your eyes widened as Archer and Saber reacted, each using their Noble Phantasms at once. However Berserker and Assassin vanished before them while you and Miyu were also being sent away.

Manaka cracked a smile in her sleep.

"I'll be back for you, for our Battle, Hans. For now, live."

Her voice echoed in your head as Minerva reached out for you with a furious roar.

You were gone.

.....
....
...

You opened your eyes. You were looking down a path through stalls and rides as it snowed. The moon shined in the sky as you held Manaka's body on your remaining arm, looking down on her as she too opened her eyes...

Except this time her eyes weren't blue anymore.

"Who... Who are you..?" She asked in a weak voice.

RAAAAAAAAGGHHHHHHHHH

Hyde, the Blackened Servant howled as his body morphed and turned. His muscles grew as his limbs bulged, his clothes ripping apart to reveal blackened fur as he roared into the night while baring his teeth and claws.

Manaka opened her eyes on fear before seeing the Blackened Servant before you two.

"I... I'm back..? My head... Why... Why do I look like that?" She asked as she saw her reflection on a sign, "What is-?"

You got up and tossed her your blazer while you loosened your tie.

"Questions later. Now we need to fight," you told her as you held up your command seals, feeling it burn.

Hyde roared and moved towards you as you raised your hand.

"Assassin!" You shouted and just as the Blackened Servant crushed you with a swipe, Assassin appeared and drove a sword through his palm.

Cutting through his hand, she lifted her leg and delivered a kick into his gut. She then grabbed on to his fur and lifted herself up, smashing her knee into his jaw before turning to kick him back.

Blood flew into the air as he was sent staggering.

"Behind us!" Manaka cried out as blocks of flame and ice fell.

However they were intercepted by a man crushing them with his swords, keeping your back safe while Assassin took care of Hyde. Berserker smirked as he turned to look at the girl.

"Oh? That's a voice I haven't heard in a bit," Berserker said as he met the girl's gaze, "Master, had a nice dream?"

"You're... That man that was chasing me," the girl whispered.

This wasn't Manaka.

"My Lord, forgive my lateness, I had to deposit Lady Miyu in a safe location," Assassin said as she lowered her sword.

So Manaka did teleport you... That was some high grade magecraft, close enough to become True Magic.

Hyde howled as he dashed towards Assassin while Brynhildr descended with the force of a Hammer against Beowulf. Without Manaka, the Blackened Servants were becoming unstable.

"What's going on?! Who are you people and what did you do to me?!" The girl behind you got up to grab your clothes, "Bastard, say something!"

"I can't explain it now, we're in the middle of something," you replied with an annoyed hiss.

Assassin lured Hyde away while Berserker took on Brynhildr's arsenal of runes.

"Beowulf!" You snapped as Berserker used his Instinct to catch the next blow with Naegling, only for his sword to crack.

"I got this!" He snapped as the sword shattered and exploded right in front of the Valkyrie.

This allowed him to use Hrunting to chop off Brynhildr's arm off. The Valkyrie swung her spear and clashed with the King once more, only to send her sliding back as Hrunting shattered too.

Brynhildr's eyes shined gold in response.

Nearby, Assassin had driven her kunai into Hyde's eyes as he tried catching her. She flipped and held up her hand as a giant snake swallowed him whole.

Hyde burst out of the serpent and grabbed Assassin by her shirt, slamming her into the ground and dragging her into it. He then sent her flying through some shops as he howled into the air.

Who do you support?

Light and Dark​

[] Help Berserker and have Assassin play keep away with Hyde. Berserker's the only one standing between you and Brynhildr at this point.
[] Assassin was going to be overwhelmed if you don't do something. Leave it to Berserker to support you from the back while you maintain Assassin's strength.
[] Prepare for a retreat, you can cause a flash explosion to rob Hyde and Brynhildr's vision. You can use that time to escape to safety and hide. You'll even leave some familiars to distract them.
[] Write in...

 

[AnonymousRabbit]

[] Assassin was going to be overwhelmed if you don't do something. Leave it to Berserker to support you from the back while you maintain Assassin's strength.

"Berserker! I'll leave things to you on this end!" You barked as you turned to Assassin rising up from the rubble.

"I'm going all out here! Try and survive, boy!" Berserker said as he dashed towards the Valkyrie.

On the other side of the battlefield, Hyde howled as he crashed down on Assassin. Assassin dodged out of the way and drew her sword while parrying Hyde's swipes.

You cast a spell which reinforced her strength while she weathered Hyde's blows. She managed to deflect his next blow and throw a kunai into his leg before jumping to stab him right in his stomach.

She pulled her blade out and turned to avoid being caught before she sliced off his tendons on his leg before jumping up to grab on to his back. She held her sword in a reverse grip before plunging it into his neck.

Flipping over, she grabbed on to her sword and yanked it down Hyde's flesh and cutting down. Leaning back, she evaded his swipe but he managed to raise his other leg and kick her away.

"Healing wind," you breathed as you directed your spell towards your Servant, blunting the pain she felt and allowed her to retain focus.

"You're... One of them. You're a Magus," the girl behind you said with wide eyes.

"Not a good time, girl!" You barked as you worked.

"I-I don't want this. This is a mistake. This is a Grail war, right? I-I want out, please!" She begged with a frightened tone.

"Little busy here!" You said as you kept your connection with Assassin on, focusing on reinforcing her body and healing her wounds.

Behind you, Berserker was able to push back the Valkyrie even as she used her runes to her advantage. You kept your concentration up as you sought to support Assassin as she evaded and struck.

She tore out the Werewolf's throat before dashing back and leaving firecrackers to blow up in front of him. The noise overloaded his senses allowing Assassin to plunge her sword into his chest and we it as a stepping point, jumping into the air.

She twisted in the air to knock back Hyde's massive arms with her kunai, only to draw two more and stab them into his chest, creating a bloody 'X' as she cut.

Hyde howled and tried crushing her but she met his swipe with her bloody kunai, making him falter. She then turned and caught his second swipe and sliced off his hand.

She then pulled her sword out just as Hyde leaned down to bite her, driving it beneath his jaw and piercing through his snout. Assassin yanked it out and slashed his knees before forcing him down.

Darting forward, she thrust her sword into his chest and drove him into the ground.

However...

"Assassin, pull back!" You snapped as you created a rune of fire.

Hyde had grabbed her by the shoulders and held her in place, giving her no chance to dodge. The rune activated and set the air above them ablaze, deterring Hyde from biting a chunk out of her shoulder.

He let Assassin go before turning towards you.

"Shit!" You cursed as Hyde dashed towards you.

The girl behind you screamed, "I-It's coming! What are you doing, protect us!"

"Damn you!" Assassin snarled as she called upon a black serpent just as Hyde reached you. It clamped down on his leg and dragged him back.

Hyde howled as Assassin dragged him back with her familiar. Behind you, Berserker was giving the Valkyrie a beat down but her defenses were ironclad. He punched and kicked, smashing Primordial Rune after primordial rune before jumping up to avoid being struck.

You held up your hand and unleashed a flock of crows towards Hyde as Assassin took out his arms.

Berserker landed just as Brynhildr found a new target. She had her body shine as she got ready.

"I... I don't.... What is this..? I never wanted this. It wasn't supposed to be me!" The girl sobbed as she held her head, her eyes filled with despair.

"Shit, this isn't the time, girl!" You barked.

Assassin chopped off Hyde's arm but she held up her sword to block his bite.

"I don't want to die! Why can't just everything stop!!!!" She screamed as tears fell down the floor, "You Magi, don't you realize that people just want to live their lives?! I never asked to be in this stupid game of yours!"

"Will you shut up for two seconds?!" You yelled back but the girl snarled back.

"This is all your fault! I wish you were dead, you Bastard!" The girl screamed at you as her right hand glowed bright.

Your eyes widened as you realized what was happening.

Assassin turned and saw what was happening but Hyde prevented her from acting. Berserker's body shined red as the Command Spell acted upon him, having him disarm the Valkyrie of her spear as he faced you.

"HANS, DODGE!" Beowulf roared as he hurtled he spear towards you.

However it was too fast. The spear flew straight for you and you only had enough time to have it slice your left side.

SLASH

The girl was splattered with your blood as you felt white hot pain erupt on your side. Assassin screamed behind you but you grit your teeth and endured. The girl before you let out a shaky breath before Beowulf turned and punched the Valkyrie in the face.

"No... This... This isn't my fault," the girl said as you were bleeding hard, "No!"

She turned and ran.

"Hans!" Assassin shouted before Beowulf roared and smashed down on Hyde and kicked him back. The Wolfman snarled at the King, allowing Assassin to run to your side.

You fell down your knees as you bled.

"Assassin, take the boy and find Miyu. Get out of here," Beowulf said as he clenched his fist.

"You can't take them on your own. Not without support. Beowulf..." You breathed as you held your side.

"I'll buy you time. Besides, these clowns aren't as strong as I am," Berserker said as he glanced at you with a red eye.

Brynhildr had called upon her Spear and grasped it from the air. She was then wrapped in blue fire as thorns began to escape her armor.

Hyde smashed the ground with his fist, howling into the moonlight as he anticipated this next clash. His wounds healed at a rapid rate while baring his teeth at the King.

The Blackened only saw him as a wall to topple.

"No... We can still..." You growled under your breath.

"You still have your mission to accomplish, don't you, boy?! Fat chance you'll die here for a mistake. Now go!" Beowulf snapped as he clenched his fists.

"Master..." Assassin breathed as she tried to stop the bleeding. You were starting to feel light headed... That was no joke... You're dying.

Turning Point​

[] Leave. You... You need to escape. You trust Beowulf this much to watch your back.
[] Stay. He can't fight two Blackened by himself. At least he needs Assassin to support him. You can endure.
[] Search. That stupid girl that nearly killed you ran off. You need to look for her. Get Assassin to do it. She can just drop you somewhere. You can wait.
[] Write in...

 

[AnonymousRabbit]

[] Search. That stupid girl that nearly killed you ran off. You need to look for her. Get Assassin to do it. She can just drop you somewhere. You can wait.

"Assassin, we have to move," you growled as you held on to her.

Beowulf smiled as he faced Brynhildr and Hyde at the same time, "Smart man. Don't come back till we're done here!"

Assassin helped as you lost more and more of your blood. You were leaving a trail of red on the ground as you moved, your reinforcement magic wearing out as you lost feeling your right leg.

You were dipping in and out of consciousness as you felt short on breath. Assassin sought to keep you awake. You can feel her voice, she supported you as you walked and she felt warm.

The sounds of battle erupted behind you two as Beowulf howled and took on the Blackened. You felt pain pass through your stomach... More blood.

"It'll be all right, Big Brother."

Everything was fading away.

"You can have a normal life now, Big Brother. Leave it all to me!"

Melting. All was melting... But you grabbed on... To Assassin, making her look at you. You regained a bit of lucidity as you listened to the sound of destruction behind you.

"Find the girl... Find Miyu too. We'll get out of here together," you told her as you met her gaze.

Assassin blinked before giving you a look, "No, we must get you back to your safehouse. I can't just leave you here!"

"They need help. I'll be fine," you assured her with a nod. You let go of her and staggered back first into a store's wall. You held your bleeding side and applied a rune to numb the pain and heal the worse of the damage.

You gave her a bloody smile and said, "See? All better."

Assassin looked at you and said, "Is... This wise?"

"Leave that girl alone and she might fall into trouble," you told her as you leaned against the wall, "Go."

Assassin hesitated before turning away and vanishing. You let out a chuckle as you slowly slid down the wall. You bled too much back there... Shit, you can't stay awake.

"Guess this is the end of the line for me. Funny how that works, huh?" you let out a sigh as you noticed black spots dancing at the edge of your vision, "No. Can't fall yet. I need to stay awake."

"Brother!"

"Celine..."

And then something appeared before you. A cloaked figure dressed in black with their mask obscuring their face loomed over you as you sat on the ground. It was without a doubt a man, and he looked down upon you with a sickle in hand.You didn't know if this was an illusion or death itself rising to come and get you.

You cracked a smile as everything faded to black.

......
.....
...

You woke up to the sound of a door closing. Your body ached and your side even more so, but you felt that you were restrained somehow as you soon came to your senses.

Rising up, you grit your teeth as you found that you were wearing an armlet of some kind. It was an an accessory with many engravings marking the surface. A moment later, the door opened and you were greeted by the sight of Ophelia stepping in.

"Finally awake?" She noted as she stood before you with her arms crossed, "How are you feeling?"

"Been better," you replied with a grimace. You recalled your last memory before passing out, "I... Was that your servant?"

"Rider saw the chance to abduct you and so he did. I kept him from killing you on the spot," Ophelia said as she sat down on a nearby chair.

You grimaced as you met her gaze. She wore an eyepatch... Much like Assassin did.

"Is my Servant around?" You asked her with a frown.

"At the moment, no. You're not allowed to summon her either. The moment your command seals activate, a deadly poison will be injected through that armlet. I wouldn't try it if I were you," Ophelia warned you as she crossed her arms.

You stared at her before shaking your head, "Are you still mad because I turned down your alliance offer?"

"I'd rather not kill you if I can't help it," Ophelia said as she looked down on you, "But that isn't out of the cards, provided I can control you."

"That kind of sentimentality is gonna bite you in the ass," you replied as you shook your head.

"Last night, it was confirmed that the Servant Berserker has fallen to the Blackened Servants you encountered," Ophelia cut you off making you tense. She continued while looking to the side, "He managed to kill both entities before they could run wild. Rider witnessed it himself after retrieving you."

"And the Grail?" You asked with a raised eyebrow.

"M.I.A. Alongside your servant and Berserker's Master... It seems like you've been making quite the friends, Hans," Ophelia said as she stood up. She walked over to you and asked, "Look at yourself, Hans. You don't have to keep going. It would be an absolute waste to Magus society to have you die a dog's death out here."

"You're still on that-" you griped as you looked aside.

Ophelia stamped her foot and said, "you could be putting your talents, your knowledge, and you insights into something fruitful. Beyond this war, the Successor to Lord Animusphere and Heir to the House Wodime has offered Magus like us to embark on a great purpose. Chaldea, Hans. You could be working with an organisation like that instead of fight these petty wars. We need people like you, Hans and all you have to do is let go of your mistakes. You're long past it, Hans."

"You... Know what my answer is going to be, Lady Phamrsolone," you replied as you shook your head, "I have my own mission."

"And it's one that will lead to an inevitable death. You could be better, you know?" Ophelia said as she crossed her arms, "Mr. Wodime would greatly appreciate it."

"What's your bottom line?" You growled as you turned her way.

"We band together and defeat Archer and Saber. I need your help... And I promise, I can show you a path beyond what you're in now," Ophelia said as she met your gaze, "We can keep the Grail safe here."

Meanings
​

[] Accept.
[] Decline.
[] You'll think about.
[] Write in...

 

[AnonymousRabbit]

[] You'll think about it.

You gave her a look and gave her your reply, "I'll think about it."

Ophelia didn't seem satisfied with that but relented and turned away. The two of you exchanged no more words then as she exited the room, shutting the door behind her.

Looking at the door, you glanced at the light which came from beneath it. Standing up, you weren't bound to the bed anymore. You were dressed in your dress shirt you usually wore beneath your suit and it revealed the hole Beowulf took out of you, wrapped in bandages.

Some manner of healing had been performed on you to keep you alive. But that wasn't important at the moment, not with how things were. You grimaced as you placed your hand on the walls and turned to see that the bedroom you were in had no windows.

You walked to the bathroom and opened the lights inside, giving you a view of the toilet and a single shower. Everything had been accounted for and it was complete with what you would need to keep yourself hygienic.

But there were no windows.

You turned away and moved out to the bedroom and felt your chest beating hard. You were starting to feel sensations of restlessness and panic. You grimaced as you moved to where your blazer was folded and reached within one of the pockets.

Taking out a piece of candy, you popped it in your mouth and savoured its sweetness. You tried to calm down as your kind began to slow, your composure returning as you took stock of your situation. No escape and bound to being unable to use your command seals.

Things were pretty dire as they were. You ended up seated on your bedside as you looked down at your armlet. If you tried summoning Assassin, you would end up dead from fast acting poison. You weren't going to try and doubt Ophelia given she was a thorough person on your short time as her friend.

You were lucky, had it been any other master, they would have killed you already. She had extended this much mercy on you already... And for what?

To make you give up?

"How stupid," you snarled as you grabbed the nearby a lamp and threw it hard against the wall.

The lamp shattered in a cascade of glass and steel, your arm burning hot with magical energy. You'll never give up. This feeling in your chest will never be extinguished. You'll never forgive your those people, people who took her life for granted and used her as a tool.

You've been fighting... For ten years. Who did that woman think she was..?

You crunched the candy in your mouth as you stepped towards the door. You opened it, and swung it to step beyond it.

You were... In a hallway. Beyond it, was an exit. You moved, your shoes echoing against the walls as you ran. You tried to escape and eventually made it to the end, only to find yourself in a void.

A white marble floor spanning eternity and a purple sky. It was a totally alien location that didn't remotely resemble the outside. This was... A Bounded Field? How could Ophelia make such a thing... Not unless it was something else?

Your wounds were real, your feelings and everything were real so why? Why were you here and what was this place?

You stood at the entrance of the hallway to find something in the distance. Something was floating in the air, massive in its size. Your eyes widened at the sight as a massive snake hurtled itself towards you. However before it could crush you, it smashed against an invisible barrier which kept it at bay.

It was a purple snake, baring it's crimson maw as it howled at you. You fell back on your rear before you were forced to retreat as another snake joined it, hissing, howling and smashing against your shelter.

There was no escape.

This was a cage Ophelia constructed not out of malice, but for your own safety until you give in to her. A compromise to acquire your talents and force you to surrender your dream. So you got up, and ran back to your room.

Your bum leg ached as you moved until you staggered into your room, you fell down, out of breath. Sweat ran down your cheek as you grit your teeth. There was no escape, not with this things waiting at your doorstep.

Snakes.

You closed your eyes to find yourself thinking about Assassin.

"I guess... I accumulated enough karma," you breathed as you knelt on the ground and looked at your hand. You did the same thing to someone in the past, trapping them in a bounded field to be killed over and over.

But you doubt that if you were killed here, you'd also come back.

"Dammit. Some Magus I am," you murmured as you slowly got up and sat in your bedside. You could be stubborn all you want but Ophelia wasn't going to let you out...

You were tired... You haven't fully recovered from your injuries yet. Today would be the first day before Miyu broadcasts again. You need to get out of here before then or else she'll be taken again.

Falling down your bed, you slowly closed your eyes. You... Began to dream.

.....
....
...

A woman cried out.

She was covered in blood, stained from the corpses she had made on the battlefield. She cried in pain, as if the world itself had become Hell itself. She was then surrounded by serpents.

They slithered and hissed, calling for her cursed blood as she knelt down and held her head. But no matter how much she cried or sobbed her pleas would not be heard.

The Bloody Moon hung low as the serpents assaulted her, twisting and coiling around her. They whispered her sins and the suffering she was about to endure.

There was no running, no escaping, nothing...

But even so she cried out...

"Save me... Forgive me... Someone."

.....
....
...

You opened your eyes and saw that you were still in this room. Imprisoned against your will as an armlet prevented you from using your command seals. The memories of your dream came back at you in full force and you felt bike rising up.

Staggering out of bed, you broke into the bathroom.

Kneeling before the toilet bowl, you started vomiting. The sensation of stomach acid burned your throat as you threw up everything, your eyes watering from the pain and at the memories of suffering.

"Assassin... I'm sorry," you gasped as you grunted and closed your eyes. You vomited some more before the feeling subsided.

The sound of flushing filled the bathroom as you dragged yourself on the sink. You looked horrible... You looked... More tired than usual.

You turned on the waters in the tap and poured some into a cup. You rinsed the taste of acid in your mouth before you felt your strength leave you again.

"Dammit..." You breathed before a chill came over you.

Trapped in a room, you were used to it. You were sent into these sorts of rooms when you were a child, back when you were being groomed to be the Luctworth heir. You were second rate, never the perfect Magus everyone sought after. You were nothing special, not even when you sought their approval.

Your parents never cared and your grandfather was obsessed with the family's goal... Recreating Pandora and gaining the Root through her box. The perfect Sculpture, opening the path to the Root. You never understood their obsession, their drive for something so meaningless.

No one cares save for her.

"Big Brother!"

"Celine..." You whispered as you looked into the mirror... Only to find Manaka smiling at you.

You blinked and you instead saw an eldritch eye looking at you through the mirror. You froze in place, you couldn't even move and you found it hard to breathe.

What was... This thing doing here?

Somehow, your hand began to rise and move towards the mirror's surface.

"Just how far are you willing to go down this path, Hans?"
​

Upon touching the mirror's surface, it slowly felt like the surface of water. One push... And you would just go right in. The eye looked at you, judging you and studying you...

Birdcage
​

[] Enter the mirror.
[] Pull back and stay away.

 

[AnonymousRabbit]

[] Enter the mirror.

You didn't resist. You placed your hand over the mirror and watched it ripple like water. You felt it slowly pull and you plunged your hand within. A moment later, it felt like something dragged you off your feet, causing you to fall into the mirror as you shut your eyes. You held your breath before your entire being was pulled inside.

Suddenly you felt like you fell into a cold, ever expanding lake. You were driven from the void you were caged in straight into a void you were falling in. It was dark and you felt like choking from the sharp pain you felt piercing your lungs. You fell and fell, the mirror you came through becoming more distant.

Curses. You felt the surge of curses flow around you as your body sunk. You then saw it, a black figure that went past you. You turned and beheld a great... Beast.

A massive swaying group of necks and teeth, tainted by a scarlet hue filled your vision. It sat at the bottom of the Abyss, looking at you and assaulting your mind with its grand presence. You felt like going insane, you felt like it took hold of your very essence and sought to swallow you whole.

Black mud began to spill forth from your lips as you held your throat.

"BE SCARED."

You choked as your blood began to burn. You looked upon its seven crowns and its faces. Demonic wings arrayed the Beast's back, it sat at the bottom of the Abyss with its cruel tails expanding backwards while its many maws curled into smiles.

Cruel and twisted human-like smiles. They loomed over you as you faced them all. Seven heads and ten crowns, they spoke of a vile inhuman guttural tongue but you understood it clearly. And the simple dawning understanding that washed over you seemed to chip away at your own sapience.

They smiled, they laughed, they mocked and scorned you as they drew closer and closer. Lesser men would have gone mad and you were at the brink of insanity itself.

It was the darkness in every human heart, it drew strength from the negative karma which clung to your body. You, who had survived and killed many in the six Grail Wars that had passed, had the karma of others hold on to you.

Their regrets, their hate and their anger. They were far stronger and delicious than whatever emotion you could provide the Beast. So the Beast drew closer and closer, one maw filled with teeth darting straight for you.

"CRY, SCREAM, DIE!"

You opened your eyes and guarded your soul. It opened its mouth and swallowed you. And you were consumed by the Beast...

.....
....
...

DING DONG

DING DONG

You were lying on your bed as the morning light peered from behind your curtains. Opening your eyes, you recognized the familiar room you were in. You slowly got up, and held your head only to see your left arm whole and intact.

That's... Strange.

DING DONG DING DONG

Your room was messy with academic books and school supplies. A laptop was charging on the desk as you noticed that the air-conditioning was on full blast.

No wonder it was cold...

You grabbed the remote for it and toned it down a notch. You felt sleepy, your bed had never been more comforting than it was now. You checked the date and your reflection on your black phone looked back at you.

You looked young...

Turning on the phone it was December 10, 2010... It was winter break so there shouldn't be any school today. You had one message.

DING DONG

DING DONG

You fell back to your bed as you stared at the door leading out to your bedroom. So familiar, it's like a dream.

DING DONG

Sloth
​

[] Keep sleeping.
[] Get up and see who's at the door.
[] You had a message in your phone. Check it.

 

[AnonymousRabbit]

[] You had a message in your phone. Check it.

DING DONG

You opened your eyes and grimaced. The doorbell won't stop ringing. You grunted as you grabbed your phone and opened it, only to find the messages pop up. For as long as you can remember, you only had one or two contact person.

Opening the message, you gave it a read.

I'm kicking down your door
- Celine

Click to shrink...

Your eyes widened before your door flew open. Footsteps echoed within your apartment before your bedroom door flung open as well. You got up with a yelp and saw a young girl stand at the door frame. She had short orange hair tied to the side with a scrunchie of the same colour.

She was wearing a thick black coat with an orange blouse beneath as she lowered her heavy snow boots. This girl gave you a huff as she stomped right in.

"Brother! I've been ringing for the last five minutes, you said you'd wake up early!" Your little sister said with a pout.

You stared at her, blinking in surprise as you lowered your phone. It was your little sister in the flesh. She was here... Living and breathing. You could only stare as her proud and annoyed look slowly gave way to confusion.

You eventually found your voice as you spoke, "Celine?"

Celine smiled your way and held out her hand, "Tell me what's your excuse, Brother, for making your beloved little sister wait out in this cold-"

Before she could even finish, she stopped as she saw your face. You were just staring at her but you felt confused.

Hot tears began to form in your eyes and slowly slide down your cheek as you stared at her and listened to her voice. Why were you crying? This was just strange...

You don't remember why you were crying.

"A-Are you okay? Are you you not feeling well?" Celine panicked as she held up her hand.

"No, I'm fine. I... Had this strange dream," you breathed as you held your head.

"A dream?" Celine asked with a frown before she crossed her arms, "Huh... Would you like me to concoct you a potion? I've been being taught how to brew potions by my tutors to better create ingredients for my sculptures. I can get you one so you can have a dreamless sleep!"

"You don't need to do that. Why don't you wait in the living room? I'll get fixed up here then we can go out," you said with a warm smile.

Celine nodded as she went out and slammed your door shut. She's a handful... You looked down at your hand and noticed red tattoos etched on the back of your right hand.

Where did these come from?

You decided to ignore it, you'll just ask Celine about these later.

.....
....
...

Five minutes later, you were dressed and freshened up, you stepped out of your room to find Celine reading one of the books available on your living room shelf.

She raised her head and turned to you with a smile, "Oh! Hi Brother!"

"You sure came in early. I'm more surprised the main house let you leave," you replied as you walked to your fridge and took out a drink.

"Well, I finished everything I needed to do. Grandfather was trying to keep me from going but I sneaked out," Celine giggled as you pressed your can of soda on her head, "GAH!"

"Stop sneaking out. I don't want those people knocking in my door," you said as she took the soda while you sat before her, "Are you going to stay here for the day again?"

"Y-Yes," Celine said as she sipped her drink, "Not unless you're busy again."

"It should be fine. Besides, I sort of forgot what I was doing last night... I felt it's important," you admitted as you crossed your arms.

Celine blinked before giving your hand a look, "What is that?"

"This?" You asked as you raised the back of your hand, "I don't know. It just showed up somehow."

"I know you're interested in runic magic and all but don't try and inscribing them on your body, Brother. You'd smarter than that," Celine said as she giggled.

"Right, right. Anyway, did they give note to my proposal?" You asked with a raised eyebrow.

"Oh. Yes. Grandfather approved it with some certain conditions he wished to impose on you. Still... Is it necessary?" Celine asked you with a worried look.

"You're going to go crazy listening to private tutors all the time. You need to get out and make friends of your own. I think enrolling you into a school is a good way of improving your social abilities," you said as you sipped your drink.

"But I have plenty of social skills! I can convince you to buy me whatever I want!" Celine said as she huffed.

"You can't even go to the convenience store and talk to the clerk. You barely talk to your driver as well and I doubt you talk to the Sculpture Maids back home," you said as you shook your head.

Celine looked to the side, "This wouldn't be a problem if you didn't leave."

"They've got no use for me anymore. I'm a second rate Magus, no one important. But you're different, Celine, you're so much more talented and clever," you said as you shook your head.

"That's not true! You're not unimportant, you're my brother! You're just as talented as I am, grandfather just can't see that!" Celine said as she argued back.

"I know. Which is why I'm taking another path from being a Magus. Once you're sick of them too, you can always tag along with me," you said as you set down your soda, "It's difficult but I want you to have a normal life. You can still practice magecraft but I just don't want you to do it under their thumb. You don't deserve the things I went through."

"Mmm," Celine crossed her arms as she fell back on her seat, "You really think you can do all that yourself, dear Brother? You're amazing and all... But don't hesitate to rely on me too."

Pride​

[] "It's fine. Big Brothers always look after their little Sisters. No matter what happens, I'll make sure I'll succeed. I can do this, have some faith in your Brother."
[] "Alright then. I'll be counting on you when the time comes. But at the same time, let me ask the same from you."

 

[AnonymousRabbit]

[] "It's fine. Big Brothers always look after their little Sisters. No matter what happens, I'll make sure I'll succeed. I can do this, have some faith in your Brother."

You gave her a confident smile and replied, "It's fine. Big Brothers always look after their little Sisters. No matte what happens, I'll make sure I'll succeed. I can do this, have some faith in your Brother."

Celine blinked before sighing. She gave you a sad smile as she spoke, "That's just how you are, it would seem. Carrying everything on your back."

You stared at her and felt something dig into your chest. Your eyes widened and your vision turned bla-

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1/7

The Beast's hold grows tighter.​

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You gasped as you found Celine standing beside you. She had a worried look as she looked down on you.

"Are you all right? You don't seem well, Brother," Celine asked as she held you steady.

"I... I'm fine. Just a little dizzy," you replied as you held your head, "Yeah. I must be working too hard."

"You do tend to do that, Brother. But doing everything yourself isn't the answer, you know? If you want help, you just need to ask. Otherwise you'll end up doing more harm to yourself," Celine said as she pet your head.

"What are you lecturing me for?" You chuckled as you got up.

"I'm just worried is all," Celine said as she stepped back and crossed her arms, "Tell you what? How about I make us both lunch! Maybe you're just feeling hungry."

"I'm... I guess you can do that. Just don't burn the place down," you told her as she smiled at you. That was when she made a dash to your kitchen, leaving you in your armchair.

You held a hand to your chest as you felt something lodged in your chest. Not only that... But you could feel the tattoos on the back of your hand burn.

Master!

You can't help but feel you're forgetting something important. Crying in front of Celine was bad enough, you had to get it together now. You looked down your tattoos and found that it wasn't burning anymore. You decided to stand up and go to the kitchen.

You might as well help the kid out. You walked into your kitchen and moved past Celine getting the stove heated.

"Oh! Brother, you could have waited," she said with a confused look.

"It's fine. Let me help out," you told her with a chuckle.

It felt like it's been awhile since the two of you had done this together. Celine would normally come to your apartment once a week after she was done with everything at the main house. You could have left this city, spread your own wings and gone off somewhere but you couldn't just leave her.

You knew that if you left her with your grandfather, she'd turn out rotten. At the very least, you could be there for her even when the two of you couldn't be in the same house. She had some place to run away to and just be normal.

"Get ready to be blown away! Magecraft isn't the only thing I've been working on," Celine said as she giggled while putting on an apron.

"Please don't burn my apartment down," you warned her again as you took some ingredients out of your fridge.

"If I burn your house down, then you'll have to move back!" Celine suggested before you lightly smacked her head.

"Behave," you told her as you handed her a pot, "Now boil this pot with water. We're making pasta."

"Yes!" Celine said as the two of you began to work.

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The meal was ready and the two of you began to dig in. Celine was quite happy with the result but she nearly tried some esoteric cooking methods at the end which you fortunately managed to stop.

The taste was fine, you just mostly enjoyed being with your little sister. The two of you ate and finished up your meals before you looked at the time. It was almost dusk, Celine would have to go soon.

"It's almost time. Time sure flies, doesn't it, Brother?" Celine said with a smile as she stood up.

"It sure does," you sighed as you shook your head.

"Well, I'll see you next week. I'll be checking if you're taking care of yourself because if you're not I'm dragging you back home," Celine said with a huff.

Slowly but surely, you heard droplets of water hit your window. You looked out to see that clouds had gathered outside and it began to rain.

You felt the tattoos on the back of your hand sting a bit.

Greed​

[] "Why don't you stay for a bit longer. It is raining after all. I'm sure the family will understand."
[] "I have an umbrella and a raincoat. I'll walk you to the street where they'll pick you up."
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