Fate/Blackened Sugar

[AnonymousRabbit]

[] Call again. You need advice and she's the best damned Magus you can get ahold of now. Scarred Red... That Puppet Maker.

She hung up on you.

You hissed under your breath and dialed again and listened for the ring. It didn't even get to finish ringing when someone answered on the other end.

"What?"

"I need your help. Now before you hang up on me, I would like to apologize," you quickly told her over the phone.

"... The prideful young heir of the Luctworth apologizing? Hell must have frozen over. If I recall correctly your ego is as big as that decrepit old man you call your grandfather."

"You gave me this number for a reason... Do you remember our conversation several months ago?" You asked her in a low tone.

"I vaguely recall. About how one of my pet projects was so conveniently taken from under my nose and how your grandfather was involved. A Holy Grail War which occurred but was wiped from the memories of those not directly involved."

"Well, your Doll is loose in the city. If you help me, I can get it back-" you offered but you were cut off.

Aozaki Touko spoke in a steely voice, "The secrets within that Doll is already cracked and pried open. The Luctworth had several months to study that body. If they're fielding that Doll, then that means they don't need it anymore. Sending it to kill you would be the last thing they have in store for it."

"But I know you're a petty enough woman to try and get back at them," you pointed out as you leaned on your seat, "Face it, there's that itch you don't want to acknowledge. You were outplayed and outsmarted and you were none the wiser."

"Boy. You better watch your tone."

"But you have the chance. Help me and I'll burn them to the ground. That's always been my goal. All you have to do is give me advice and you'll have the pleasure of watching that old man in his throne choke with my hand around his neck. And you won't have to lift a finger," you explained as you closed your eyes while composing yourself.

".... Very well. Make it quick. This call could be traced and I just settled down somewhere nice."

"How much do you know about Servants?" You asked her with a frown.

"Enough. Heroic Spirits are fleeting familiars summoned in Holy Grail Wars to do battle for their Masters. Their bodies are rather interesting if I may admit. Whereas vessels are normally needed to contain them, there are times when said vessels are forgone. Why ask?"

"My Servant has been struck by some manner of poison. I've done my best in cleansing her body but there still lingers some poison throughout her system. Not only that but I managed to trace the damage all the way to her Spirits Origin," you explained as you glanced at Assassin, "I... I'm at a loss."

"Well, Servants should have natural healing properties to regenerate from combat. Not unless struck by Noble Phantasms with adverse effects, your Servant should heal with enough magical energy given to her. I may be a Grand, boy, but there's little I could offer on this subject."

"I'll take what you have," you replied with a grim tone.

"Well, the Einzberns would be better versed in this subject but if the problem has been resolved physically i.e. the poison has been held back, perhaps the problem resides on a more spiritual state. This is only confirmed by your tracing of the damage on her Spirit Origin, yes?"

"What are you trying to say?" You asked her with a frown.

"I'm saying that while the lingering poison is a danger, it's not that your Servant couldn't wake up but she doesn't want to. Either that or something else is preventing her from awakening. Being an entity of magical energy, her body is susceptible to changes in her Spirit Origin."

Chiyome... Doesn't want to wake up? You glanced at your Servant as she laid fast asleep. You watched her chest rise and fall through her gentle breathing as you grimaced.

You recalled the Dream Cycles reflecting Assassin's past and her inner turmoils. Had this pushed her over the edge? You felt your insides turn at the thought before Touko's voice brought you back.

"I have some contacts I can consult. Talk to me again in a day. You should be able to stay alive for that long, right?"

"I should. Thanks," you replied as you nodded.

"Good. I'll contact you through my own means. This number won't be used again."

Aozaki Touko hung up and you were left in silence. You glanced at your Servant as she slept while you sat near her. Things weren't getting easier for you, huh?

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

You got out of your room in the morning having spent the night watching over Assassin. You found Luvia having her tea while Sakura worked on the kitchen. There was no sign of Ayumi or Miyu nearby so it was still fairly early in the morning.

"Mr. Derrinsmith, good morning," Sakura greeted you as she set down breakfast.

"You haven't eaten last night. Have you figured things out?" Luvia asked you while sat on the table.

"A little but it would take time. Time I don't have. Tonight's the defense," you pointed out with a grim look.

"With Assassin out of commission, there goes half our combat strength. If our enemies attack tonight we'll be in big trouble," Luvia noted as she sipped her tea.

"We can handle it," Sakura said as she set down her pan.

"Sakura?" Luvia frowned her way.

"It's only for tonight, Luvia. We can defend Miyu by ourselves. Mr. Derrinsmith, you can continue looking after Assassin. You don't have to worry about us," Sakura said as she met your gaze.

"You seem so sure about this," you frowned her way.

"I am," The Matou replied with a look of determination.

Delays
​

[] Let the Lancer faction defend Miyu by themselves. You can keep working in figuring out Assassin's ailment on your own.
[] No, you'll go with them. They'll need all the help they could get, especially with Minerva lurking around.
[] Write in...

 

[AnonymousRabbit]

[] Let the Lancer faction defend Miyu by themselves. You can keep working in figuring out Assassin's ailment on your own.

You stared at the woman before you before nodding, "Very well. I can stay here."

"It would put us at ease if you can watch out for Miss Kirishima as well," Luvia said as she sipped her tea.

"As long as you keep Miyu safe, that's all I ask," you told them in a calm tone.

"Rest assured then. We expect you to resolve this before we spring our plan a few days later. Assuming we get out of tonight in one piece," Luvia said as she glanced at Sakura.

Sakura for her part crossed her arms, "This war is unpredictable, there's no telling what the other Masters would pull. If anything, having you stay behind would act as an insurance should anything happen."

"I dislike the idea of staying behind but I can see your point," you shrugged as you leaned on your seat, "I just have to figure things out for now. Well, fast enough that you won't try anything against me."

"We're not like you, Mr. Derrinsmith. But that's only to be expected of someone who's made it his life going through these wars," Luvia said with a hard look.

"Luvia!" Sakura admonished.

"It's fine. I may have spoken out of line there. But what she said wasn't untrue either," you admitted as you waved your hand, "I didn't survive this long by being careless."

"I see..." Sakura murmured as she turned her gaze down.

"I'll leave things to you," you told them as you leaned back on your chair.

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

"So you're not going?" Miyu asked as she glanced your way.

You gave her a sad smile and shook your head, "I won't be of much use. Plus someone has to look after Assassin."

Miyu gave you a look and nodded, "I see. That's good."

"You did tell me to do something. This is as much as I can do for now..." You replied as you shook your head. You then met her gaze, "Will you be okay?"

"We'll have to see. That will depend on the defense. But even if things do go wrong, I have confidence," Miyu said as she smiled lightly, "You'll come and save me, won't you?"

"Assuming you're not hoodwinked or brainwashed, I'll try my hardest," you replied with a nod.

"That's a bad joke, you know?" Miyu pointed out with a frown. You chuckled and her expression softened as she looked down, "Wake her up."

You smiled and walked over to her, patting her head, "Of course I will."

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

Dusk had settled over the city and the promised time had come. Miyu and the others have left the apartment under your protection, leaving you alone with Kirishima and Chiyome. You had made sure to keep everything secured until they returned... Though you did notice Lancer give you the stink eye.

You couldn't help but feel that you just dodged a bullet. You didn't want to be anywhere alone with Lancer for the foreseeable future.

You sat down at the sofa and sighed as you looked over your Command Seals. You can't help but worry but there's no word from the Aozaki yet. She promised that she'll have an answer tomorrow, tonight at midnight the soonest if you expect her to be prompt.

A Grand like her must have some connection she can draw from. She has to find an answer.

You raised your head to find that someone had walked by. Kirishima Ayumi stood nearby with a wary look as she turned away. She must be feeling strange after your last encounter. You never properly spoke to her haven't you?

"Have... Have they left?" Ayumi asked as she raised her gaze.

"Yes. They should be fine. They're capable Mages after all," you replied as you glanced her way. Her appearance had drastically changed since you first met her.

Her hair had turned pure blonde and her skin was pale. It was reminiscent of the image of Manaka you met within the Mirror. At this point, she just looked like an older version of the girl that possessed her.

Manaka's soul had irreversibly changed her entire form.

"Are... Are you sure it's fine to leave them be? Aren't you afraid they'll just take Miyu away?" Ayumi asked with a frown.

"Luvia was right. They're not like me. So I don't expect them to do that," you replied as you leaned back on the couch, "They're not all too bad."

Ayumi flinched from meeting your gaze and looked to the side, "Then... You're out too?"

"No. Assassin is out of commission," you replied with a patient tone, "She's resting. Why don't you sit down? It'll beat standing around for sure."

"I see. So you still have your Servant," Ayumi murmured as she sat on the armchair, "Though it is strange."

"What is?" You asked with a curious look.

"You care for her. She's just a Heroic Spirit. A ghost. Why would you go so far for a Servant? Is it just because you need a weapon in this War?" Ayumi asked as she glanced your way.

You thought about it before shaking your head, "Isn't it just normal? To look after people you're close with? O can't win this war alone but my reasons extend beyond that for helping Assassin. It's not because she's my Servant."

"I heard that you fought wars and won them. Is this how you do it? Wasting away every single time you fight?" Ayumi asked with a grimace.

You gave her a look and chuckled, "Let me ask you then. How'd you get involved if you have this distaste for the Holy Grail War?"

"It was an accident. I never asked to be here," Ayumi replied as she held her head, "Its just... The one who possessed me. She just... crawled into my mind. My family has Magus roots yes a-and I could be considered third rate by most... But we disavowed the Moonlit World years ago. I..."

"And yet the Grail still deemed you worthy. Whether you like it or not, your involved now. If you truly want to be out, you can seek the church's protection once this is over with," you said as you leaned forward, "Or are you having second thoughts?"

"Don't be ridiculous. I already lost my Servant," Ayumi said as she crossed her arm.

She still didn't know that she was a ticking time bomb. No one knew except for you and Chiyome. You need to keep a close eye on her. Time was running out, can you really end this war in just a week?

"Tell me. How'd you get here?" You asked her with a frown, "Long way from home? You said your family disavowed the life of a Magus and yet here you are."

"Yes. That's true. My participation is an accident. I ran away to reach London and find my own path. This... This whole thing is just some sick detour," Ayumi said as she rubbed her shoulder, "I guess that's just fate I guess."

"Fate, huh? That's funny," you chuckled as you thought to your own experiences, "So, what made your family give up the trade and what made you take it up again?"

"They were... Content. They understood that reaching the Root in the modern age is futile. I understood that but this thing we have, I don't just want to give it up," Ayumi said as she raised her head, "That's why I traveled to London to look for someone to train me. I heard about the Grail Wars and I thought that maybe it would be interesting to observe it. I just didn't want to be fully involved in it."

"If your family gave up due to that... Then I'm sure they'll be looking for you now. They can't be as harsh as true Magus families," you replied with a raised eyebrow.

Ayumi glanced your way and spoke, "Worrying about others? You're still such a strange man, Hans."

That tone of voice...

"Huh?" You blinked in surprise.

Ayumi seemed confused, "What's wrong?"

"I... No. Nothing. It must be my imagination," you sighed as you shook your head. You then felt a sting and grit your teeth.

"Hey!" Ayumi cried out as she watched you hunch over.

You blinked and saw... The city.

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

You saw the sea of lights that was the city. Your vision blurred as you went down.

Miyu was located beneath a high rise office building. She was standing alongside Luvia within a Parking Lot, her presence being echoed towards your Command Seal.

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

You held your head as you let out a shaky breath.

"Are you okay?" Ayumi asked as she stood in alarm.

"Yeah. I'm fine," you looked at the back of your hand and grimaced, "It's starting."

Ayumi stared at you before asking, "How... You're a survivor of many of these wars. How do you stay strong? Do you get used to it?"

Silent Night​

[] "Is that how it looks to you? That's new. You're free to think how you want but I don't have an answer. Maybe before but now? I'm not so sure."
[] "The day I get used to this is the day I'm disqualified from continuing. I'll be no different than the Luctworth then."
[] "I try not to get used to it. My goal is the only thing keeping me together. And I'm not as strong as you think I am. I'm just a sad man wasting away."
[] Write in...

 

[AnonymousRabbit]

[] "The day I get used to this is the day I'm disqualified from continuing. I'll be no different than the Luctworth then."

You blinked before shaking your head, "The day I get used to this is the day I'm disqualified from continuing. I'll be no different than the Luctworth then."

"The Luctworth... Your family?" Ayumi frowned as she met your gaze, "They're renowned sculptures from what I heard of them."

"Same ones. Proficient in making automata and melding magecraft with clockwork golems. Not as famous as the almighty Einzberns but ancient enough," you said with a low chuckle, "They're cunning folk letting their dolls do their dirty work... And for what? A stupid box."

"Box..?" Ayumi asked with a frown.

"Pandora's Box. A Mystic Code of the Gods bearing the Curses of the World. It's different from All the Evils of the World which corrupted the Fuyuki Grail. They seek to create it using a perfected Magus. A Pandora," you explained as you looked at the back of your hand.

"Why? Is that how they believe they'll reach the Root?" The girl grimaced.

"The Root doesn't matter to them. What they want is the last object hidden in the box. Once all calamities had ravaged the earth, Hope will remain. And through Hope they'll do... Something," you said as you leaned on your seat, "It's their grand thousand year plan. At least the Einzberns just want to recreate the Third Magic. Still, even then, the Luctworth aren't close to realising their dreams. They're trying hard though. They're trying to kill me first."

"You're fighting an entire House of Magi? Your own family?" The girl asked you with wide eyes.

"Been doing it for ten years while managing a company on the side. Don't try it, it's not fun," you chuckled as you shook your head, "Ten years... That's a portion of my life I'll never get back but... Human spite is a powerful motivator."

Ayumi judged you from where she sat before speaking up, "You must have a deep grudge if you're willing to go this far. No, ten years... That was an understatement."

"I didn't exactly come out of that ten years unscathed. So don't go writing off what I am because of what I told you. I may not be like the Luctworth but I'm still an asshole," you sighed as you got up your seat, "You should get to bed. I'll go back to my room now. I have to figure something out to help Assassin."

"You're not going to wait for the others?" Ayumi asked from her seat.

"They should be fine. If what they promised was true," you said as you made your way to your room, "I'll see you in the morning, Miss Kirishima."

You walked into your room and shut the door. You glanced to see that Chiyome was still asleep. You moved the nearby chair and sat down by her bedside. You sighed as you glanced at her face.

"What can I do?" You murmured as you clenched your fist, the feeling of your Command Seals burning on your flesh.

No, you should resist. If you were going to do this, you were going to do it properly. Touko's answer should be coming soon. You shouldn't be hasty... Still.

"Sorry," was all you could say as you watched over your Servant.

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

At the battlefield, a Duel was being done among the hallways of the building rang. Archer moved through the halls and retreated as she fired three arrows and raised her hand. Lancer swatted aside the projectiles just as the hands of corpses reached out from the walls and grabbed her.

Stomping on the ground, chains flew about and smacked the hands away before Lancer looked to see a glaive come for her. Harpe sang in her hands as she exchanged blows with her foe.

She narrowed her gaze as Archer went onto melee, leaning back to avoid her head from being cut off before slamming her leg into Lancer's side. Lancer smashed into the wall before Archer struck her straight into it, the two of them flying out into a ballroom.

Archer rolled to stand up before grabbing a table and throwing if at Lancer. The purple haired woman cut it in half before arrows flew towards her.

"Is that all you have, Archer? I'm not impressed," Lancer hissed as she cut them aside.

"Beads of Vajra(Swirling Eyes)," Archer smirked as tiny balls lit up around Lancer.

Lancer blinked before jumping to evade being skewered by several beams of light. She turned her body and launched her chains down as Archer shot them aside.

Using the chains, Lancer pulled herself downwards and spun, cutting through the air and forcing Archer to dodge. Harpe sang and managed to draw blood from Archer.

Archer braced herself and they clashed hard enough to push each other away. The Priestess woman let out a breath as she cracked her neck. She touched the wound Lancer had dealt and noticed that it was healing slowly.

No... It wasn't healing at all.

"Fascinating. A weapon that can kill Immortals," Archer murmured as she eyed Harpe.

"Afraid, Archer?" Lancer breathed with a narrowed look.

"Me? No. My blood is boiling in fact," Archer replied as she stepped forward, "Though are you truly in the position to waste time here?"

Lancer tensed as she looked up.

"Sakura!"

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

Luvia detonated her gems and obliterated the bodies of several undead. Arrows flew from behind her and struck the corpses, robbing them of their magical energy as Sakura notched another arrow. She fired and a corpse was knocked off its feet before Luvia rushed in and swung a vase against the next one.

A kick landed into the corpse's stomach before Luvia performed a neck breaker so hard it snapped her foe's head off. Rolling up, she swept the legs of her foes just as one lunged at her.

An arrow to the head stopped the monster and allowed Luvia to sock it in the face.

"Miyu stay behind me," Sakura breathed as she guarded the girl. Looking ahead, she then said, "Luvia, we're moving!"

"Roger!" Luvia replied as she ignited a gem and created a controlled inferno which swallowed the Undead... However more took their place, forcing the women to run.

Sakura took Miyu by the hand and pulled her along. They ascended to the upper floors of the building until they reached the rooftop. Luvia shut the door and sealed it with a barrier before Sakura went to the edge and notched her bow.

"It seems like Archer's Master is more persistent tonight," Luvia breathed as she clenched her fists.

"We have to hold out at least until Lancer can get a breather. We're still open to attack up here... We have to-" Sakura began just as the door was blown open and Undead spilled out.

Sakura fired, landing three shots into each Undead before a wall of fire erupted to burn them. Luvia had detonated another of her Gems before her eyes widened.

"Watch out!" Miyu cried just as a person jumped through the flames and delivered a kick right into Luvia's guard.

The woman was sent flying straight to a wall.

"Luvia!" Sakura yelled before she took aim at the new assailant. Firing her arrow, silver streaks were flung to the air before being caught by barriers.

A man stepped forth.

"You ladies are quite capable. But it's the end of the line," he said as his coat flowed behind him and the wind made his blond hair sway. His amber colored eyes met Sakura's, "Though it would seem that Derrinsmith isn't here... Neither is the Irregular. A shame."

"You're... Archer's Master?" Sakura narrowed her gaze.

"My grandfather did what he could pretending to be Archer's Master but I can't sit idly now. My name is Matthias Gwence, Master of Archer and a mercenary hired by the Luctworth. I've come to kill Hans Derrinsmith... But seeing as he's not here, I suppose I could trim the number of Masters from this war some more," Matthias said before facing Sakura and letting more Undead walk out of the door from behind him.

Sakura stood before Miyu and raised her bow.

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

You woke up from your sleep as you raised your head. You heard the door open down the hall so you got up and took your cane.

Stepping out of your room, you braced yourself to fight but only found Lancer dragging an unconscious Sakura with her. You noticed the gash and bruises the woman had as Miyu looked alarmed by what we happening.

Ayumi had gotten out while you struggled to comprehend what you were seeing.

"Don't just stand there, help us you fool!" Lancer spat at you as you quickly went to her side.

Ayumi did so too and she held her hand to her mouth, "Oh my god..."

She laid down Sakura on the sofa while you looked over her. Cuts and bruises, you could detect some fractured bones that will need some healing salves...

"Stand back," you told the Servant as you drew a rune on Sakura's shoulder as it was turning purple. You need to relieve the pain as much as possible and then work on the other wounds.

No cuts or lacerations... She looked like she had been beaten up.

Miyu was just silent on the side with a terrified look on her face.

"It's going to take some doing but I can heal her. It'll be faster with some bandages and ice..." You said as you turned to Ayumi.

The girl turned and walked away to search for what you needed.

Limbo​

[] Reassure Miyu. The girl looks like she was about to give and she wasn't the emotional type.
[] Ask Lancer what happened. Where's Luvia? Who did this? How did Sakura get injured to this extent?
[] Keep silent and work. You could notice that Sakura was conscious even for a little bit.
[] Write in...
===================
note: sorry for taking so long again. I'll try to be consistent from now on. The writing juices are flowing.

 

[AnonymousRabbit]

[] Keep silent and work. You could notice that Sakura was conscious even for a little bit.

You couldn't allow yourself to get distracted. You continued probing Sakura's body with your runes and grimaced at the amount of internal injuries she had. You can do your best but you're not superhuman. You raised her pain and channeled magical energy into her wounds but the strain of sapping your own prana for it was heavy.

Ayumi soon came back with bandages and some ice, alongside a towel and a bowl of water.

"Good, you're here. I want you to soak the water and gently clean her gashes. Sterilised her wounds with water so she won't get infected," you ordered as Ayumi was quick with her hand.

You focused on getting the worst of Matou's wounds healed up at the expense of your own strength. If Manaka were here, she could do it... She could do it better but you were all they had now.

The human body... Was similar to a sculpture. You assessed the damage and focused your power there. You'll need to draw from your surroundings too and not just supply your own magical energy. Healing wasn't something you were well versed with but it was costly.

"Ayumi, if you're done can you get me my cane?" You asked her as she nodded.

"It's in your room?" Ayumi asked you.

"Yes. Quickly, please," you told her as she moved. Sakura's expression was starting to relax so you could as well even for a bit, "Miyu... You can go back to your room. I'll come talk to you later."

"N-No. I want to stay. Miss Matou..." Miyu said as she clenched her fists.

"This wouldn't have happened if you just came with us," Lancer admonished you with a low growl, "Had you been there-"

"What difference would a man with a bum leg and one arm make in a battle like that?" you questioned as you turned her way. You stood up from were you were kneeling and faced Lancer. The woman narrowed her gaze and stepped towards you, her eyes burning with a spark of hatred towards you.

"Are you truly saying that?" Lancer snarled as she clenched her fist.

"I'm saying you're pretty stupid for assuming I have an answer for everything. The vote in confidence is great but I think it's misplaced, Medusa," you hissed under your breath before Lancer grabbed you by the front of your shirt. You didn't flinch as you glared right back at her, feeling your extremities harden as they became petrified, "What's Sakura going to think if you continue?"

"Luvia wouldn't have been taken... Damn you!" Medusa hissed as she raised her hand to vent her anger on you.

"Lancer..."

Lancer paused in place before she dropped her grip. You felt dust peel away from your hands as you clenched your fist. You turned to see Sakura barely conscious through the pain as she opened her eyes. She turned to you as you knelt down by her side while her Servant turned away. She was struggling but she was just not used to actively breathing now that she was awake.

She tried getting up but you held her by her shoulder and she winced in pain.

"Stay down, we'll get you to your room in a bit," you told her with a grim tone.

"Miyu... Is Miyu okay?" Sakura asked as she slowly laid down. Pain streaked across her face as she let out a shaky breath. She turned her head to the side to find the young girl here, relief spreading on her visage.

"I'm here. Miss Sakura... You..." Miyu began to talk but Sakura shook her head.

"It's fine. You're okay," Sakura said with a nod before smiling.

"But Miss Luvia-" Miyu began once more but Sakura cut her off.

The woman spoke in a calm and measured tone, hiding the pain she was under while you adjusted your runes, "Luvia is strong. She won't lose that easily. Even if she's taken."

"Hey, don't over do it," you warned her with a narrowed look.

Ayumi returned with your cane in hand, "I'm here! I have your cane."

You took it from her hand as you channeled your magical energy through your mystic code, you began to gather power from your surroundings to aid in easing Sakura's pain. A small breath left the woman's lips as she swallowed hard. She turned to you and gave a nod of thanks as she relaxed at last. You were able to manipulate your magical energy better and create a self sustaining loop to keep her at ease.

Removing yourself from the flow, you stumbled back while Miyu steadied you. That took a bit out of you...

"You can take her to her room now. Ayumi... Can you dress the rest of her wounds?" you requested Ayumi as she nodded in response. Lancer walked past you and picked up her Master to carry her away. The three of them left the living room as you sat on the couch to contemplate what just happened.

Glancing at Miyu she was obviously distraught. You didn't dare ask her what happened but you could surmise that things didn't go as well as they had imagined. They met something out there and barely managed to come back alive... No, Luvia was missing so they were lucky to come back at all. While what you told Lancer held true, you couldn't help but feel regret and guilt as you sighed heavily.

"A man..." Miyu murmured as she sat in her seat, "A man appeared. He called himself... Archer's Master."

You glanced her way as she looked at you, "I... I could never give up the Grail for such a person. Hans... Hans you absolutely cannot let him take the Grail..."

You nodded and answered, "Yes. I won't let someone like that win. Don't worry, I'll do something about this. I promise you."

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

The night passed and morning eventually came. You were staying beside the Matou girl today while you made sure that she was stable. You were half asleep in your chair when you noticed her stirring and opening her eyes. She stared blankly at the ceiling for a moment before noticing your presence. She blinked and slowly got up while you sat up straight.

"I did my best readjusting your bones and stopping your internal bleeding. Lancer looked like she was about to kill me but she retrieved some reagents from my people for me to make a salve for you to use. Your injuries weren't serious but you need to stay down for a day or so," you explained as you leaned back on your seat.

"I... See..." Sakura then met your gaze, "Are we safe? Did nothing happen while I was out?"

"Well, I managed to convince Lancer to guard the building instead of looking for an excuse to kill me. So no, nothing happened. You came back safe," you replied with a nod.

Sakura had a pained smile over that, "No, not everyone."

"What happened back there? I couldn't ask Miyu since I never saw her being so scared before and Lancer is more likely to wring my neck. I know I shouldn't be bothering you about this but I have to know," you told her with a firm tone.

"It's fine. I understand. If it can help you in the future then I don't mind," Sakura replied as she shook her head, "I'll tell you everything."

Burnt Blossoms​

[] Ask who did this. Miyu mentioned a man naming himself Archer's Master.
[] Ask what happened to Luvia. It's obvious that she was taken away but what about her status? Was she dead or alive?
[] Ask who showed up in the previous night. Was it just Archer and her Master or did someone intervene? How did they all escape?
[] Write in...
=============
Note: I have some announcements next update. Weird, I know! Stay tuned.

 

[AnonymousRabbit]

[] Ask who showed up in the previous night. Was it just Archer and her Master or did someone intervene? How did they all escape?

"Tell me who showed up last night in the fight. Was it just Archer and her Master or did someone intervene?" You questioned her as you sat on your chair, "How did you all escape?"

"It was... Blind luck. Lancer managed to disengage from Archer long enough to come for us. Back then, Luvia and I tried our best to hold back that man," Sakura answered as she held on to her blanket, "We were too caught up with his strength. A melee based Magus with some knowledge of runes. He reminded us of you."

"That's... Concerning," you noted with a grim tone.

Sakura cracked a smile and giggled at that, "That's an understatement."

"Sorry. I was just surprised. I'm glad you made it back," you sighed as you shook your head, "It seems like the Luctworth are getting impatient if a new Master has stepped out of the shadows. He could have fought this war without ever revealing himself."

"That's true so that means that this was will only get worse. I suspect that they're going to use Luvia against us somehow," Sakura murmured as she looked to the side. She then turned your way to add, "That man's name was Matthias Gwence, he was supposedly the grandson of the Hitman that was hired at the start of the war. Are you aware of this?"

"I'm familiar with the old man but this guy... I don't know. He's most likely a mercenary from what I can tell. He has a good head on his shoulders parading his grandfather with Archer to fool the other Masters," you said as you placed a hand on your knee, leaning forward, "And you said that he managed to beat you and Luvia, huh?"

"If Lancer hadn't intervened or Luvia didn't stay, Miyu would have been gone," Sakura replied.

"They're intent on drawing me out. Is there anything else that happened?" You continued with your questioning.

"Lancer picked Miyu and I up and escaped. But just as we were leaving, something blew apart the rooftop we were fighting at. Lancer noted that it was a familiar surge of power and made haste to leave," Sakura answered as she held her had, "Sorry... That's all I know. But like I said, it was blind luck that we got away at all. If Archer and the newcomer joined forces..."

It was most likely Ophelia then. You knew that she wasn't a hired gun like this Matthias person. Luvia's survival hinges on Ophelia winning, otherwise she'll end up as bait for you.

This was a mess but nothing you can't salvage. You've had worse cards dealt to you.

"It should be fine. Thank you for the information, Miss Matou," you replied as you turned her way, "This gives me some stuff to work with and now that Miyu is still here, we have time to prepare."

"I... See. Hans, just give me a couple of days. We can save Luvia then," Sakura began as she turned to you.

"It's fine. You just rest now. Lancer is going to kill me if I bother you any more," you said as you stood up from your seat, "I'll be doing something in the side so I'll probably be missing for a bit. Ayumi will take care of you for now."

"What are you planning?" Sakura asked in concern.

"Waking sleeping beauty up," you said as you walked to the door and stepped out of her room. You shut the door and braced yourself.

Well... It was time to wait.

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

Though you didn't have to. Upon sitting in Assassin's room, you found yourself looking at her the entire time. The poison she was afflicted with still lingered but it was her will that was preventing her recovery at this point. You underestimated Chiyome's internal turmoil if it could manifest as this.

But while you were waiting, something came upon on the window. You stood up upon finding a mechanical bird powered by ether tap the glass. You let it inside before it dropped a letter.

It then started crumbling in itself before vanishing from your sight. Someone was sure working fast.

You picked up the letter and opened it.

If the problem is internal, then you may just need to dive in yourself. You're familiar with the principles of Soul Reading yes? You should have come across it on your stay at the Clocktower. It's basically an exorcism ritual used by the church to expel Daemons possessing innocents.

A similar process could be used here but for the purposes of communicating with your Servant. I pulled a few strings but this also gave me the chance to speak with that golem, Acht. It'll have some risks, boy, but you're the type of person to put his life on the line, right?

Use your connection with your Servant and meet her within her soul. Only she can mend her own Spirit Origin at this point.

Click to shrink...

You glanced down at Chiyome lying on the bed and moved to the chair by her side. Sitting down, you set the letter aside and looked at the back of your hand. Normally, what Lady Aozaki was asking you would require massive preparation but the connection you had with your Servant bypassed that.

"You should have said something," you breathed as you looked down on your Servant, "It's time to wake up."

You held her hand and channeled your magical energy. Your circuits flared and you dived in, pushing your consciousness against Chiyome's. The last thing you could remember was the feeling of her warm hand on yours as darkness swallowed your vision.

It felt like you were falling... Falling from a great height. This wasn't an unfamiliar feeling, you've had your fair share of going through endless voids before. You continued to fall until you saw something at the bottom.

A pool of blood and skulls, bodies of the dead filled your vision...

That was when a black Serpent broke the surface of the red waters and lunged at you.

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

This was just... A bad dream.

You opened your eyes as you laid upon a stone path. The wind blew overhead as trees swayed with its song. You slowly got up and found yourself staring at an oriental house, an empty estate if you were generous.

A pond laid to your right while a rock garden spread to your left. The skies were gray and the horns of war echoed in the distance.

It didn't seem like anyone was here.

You had the opportunity of investigating the house or stepping out the gate leading to the top of a nearby hill. Upon closer inspection, the house seemed to have someone in it as smoke from a furnace suggested that something was being cooked. But at the same time, you noticed droplets of blood and broken daggers leading to the outside.

This felt like a Dream Cycle... But you doubt that those carried the same risks as you did now.

You have to find Chiyome.

Sleeping Beauty​

[] Accept the Home's warmth and step in. Maybe Chiyome is in there.
[] Follow the trail of blood and broken weapons. Surely Assassin will be out there.
===========================
Big/Smol Announcement:

So I decided to make a Patreon to help me survive the Pandemic. I hope you guys don't mind. I'll be putting the link here and somewhere else visible. In any case, it's just an avenue to support me and let me write more quests.

This is purely an optional thing and you won't have to do weird things to read my stuff. You can still enjoy what I write as always here. Anyway, that's it I guess, I'm not good at making these kinds of announcements.

Oh and here's the link: Patreon

Thanks again.

 

[AnonymousRabbit]

[] Accept the Home's warmth and step in. Maybe Chiyome is in there.

You turned your attention away from the path leading to the outside to the house. You focused on the building before you and moved towards it, strangely enough your legs seemed to be working fine now. There wasn't the need to use a cane or something similar, though that may be because that your form was a reflection of your very soul.

Some interesting perks.

You walked forward until you reached the house itself, sliding aside the door and looking in. It was a normal oriental hallway, Tatami mats filling the floor as the smell of food wafted through the air. The wind continued to whistle outside and masked your soft footsteps as you made your way through the hall.

You eventually came upon where you were hearing the sounds of cooking before you slid the door to the side. You were greeted by the sight of a young woman dressed in a dark green kimono. She had her back turned to you and perked up upon hearing the door.

She faced you and Chiyome smiled your way, "Well now, I was expecting my husband but it turns out to be you."

"Chiyome," you called her name, "You sound disappointed."

"Good to see you too, Master. Lunch is almost ready, would you like to join me?" Chiyome asked as she turned to her cooking pot, "You can go sit by the table."

"Sure," you replied as you walked over to the table and sat down. You had a look around and glanced at the open sliding door, giving you a good view of a tree at t cusp of losing its leaves.

Orange leaves flowed through the air as the horns in the distance grew louder. There was... An air of worry, concern... Possibly dread too, though these emotions didn't feel like they were your own.

Almost as if the world was holding its breath.

"You have wonderful home," you pointed out as you watched Chiyome walk over with her pot and set it at the center of the table. She smiled at you in a way you never expected to before.

Feminine, playful and relaxed.

"Well, I am the wife of a Samurai Lord. It's only proper that I'm well taken care of," Chiyome giggled as she brought you your bowl and chopsticks.

Miso soup.

"So you are," you replied as you the two of you faced one another on the table.

"Thanks for the food."
"Thanks for the food."

Chiyome took the ladle on the pot and poured herself her meal. You got yourself your portion and took a bite on one of the food on it.

Delicious.

"I wonder why you were so bad at cooking when we first met. It's almost funny tasting this now... Did I offend you somehow?" You asked her with a raised eyebrow.

"N-No. It was... Well, I was just the Shinobi back then. Not Chiyo, not a wife, not even a simple woman. I was a manslayer," Chiyome said as she looked out of her home. The Gray clouds rolled overhead as she sighed, "It was... Around this time when I heard the news of my husband's death. I remember it as if it was yesterday."

"The war went south quick. You then joined his Uncle, Takeda Shingen," you tried recalling her life before only to frown her way, "I... I'm sorry for your loss."

"It's been centuries, Hans. There's nothing to be sorry about," Chiyome chuckled as she continued eating.

"But you said it yourself. You remember this... Everything... As if it were yesterday," you reminded her, "That must mean something, you know?"

Chiyome stared before giggling, "Truly, you're a smart man."

"You praise me too much," you disagreed as you shook your head.

"But yes. I remember it all. The me that steeled herself to use her talents had shed her identity as 'Chiyome'," your Servant said as she held up her hand, "Just like a snake. At the time, I truly thought I was cursed. Unloved and cast aside, only to be saved and given a taste of a better life with fate dashing it all in the end. The me you fight alongside had cast off everything that I am now. Everything she deemed unimportant. Such was the path she walked down upon to forget her sorrows."

"It didn't work though," you noted as you picked at your food.

"It did little in fact,"Chiyome said as she sighed, "Still, I couldn't help but think how things would have went had Moritoki lived. How different my life would have been. It's such a beautiful and painful dream... One that Karma itself woudn't allow me to have, especially not when I'm soaked in the blood of many."

"I disagree," you declared as you looked her way, "You shouldn't let something as abstract as Karma dictate your happiness. You're free to dream but it's up to you if you wish to make that dream a reality."

Chiyome stared at you before cracking a small smile, "Again you disagree for my sake. Your generosity knows no bounds. I can only feel ashamed for thinking that way despite your many advice."

"Cut it out," you said as you shook your head, "If that's the case then I just have to disagree every time. Hell knows you need someone to pull you out of your funks. Maybe that's why you had your husband, he could easily assure you that everything was going to be okay. I'm sure he was worried about you a lot so you might end up disappointing him by keeping that up."

"I see," Chiyome giggled as she met your gaze, "You sure don't mince words."

"I think spoiling you is the last thing you need," you replied as you finished your bowl. It was warm... And delicious.

The two of you sat in silence as the gray skies moved overhead. The drums of war passing by in the distance. Chiyome finished her own bowl and set aside her chopsticks.

Raising her head, she then spoke, "We can sit by the garden. The wind is cool. Let me clean up later."

The two of you stood up as she fixed her clothes. You then watched her step out into the garden and sit by steps leading to it. You followed and sat down by her side, the two of you staring at the falling leaves on the orange tree. The air was cool, cooler than before but not bitingly cold. The two of you sat together and just listened to the wind.

"You never told me," you began as you kept your eyes on the tree, "Do you have a wish for the Grail?"

Chiyome glanced at you in surprise, "The... Grail? I don't really... It's yours to take, Hans. Never mine. Besides, I don't think what wish I have could be granted."

"Try me," you told her with a firm tone.

Chiyome hesitated before shaking her head, "I... Don't think I deserve it. To wish, to be happy, to be loved... Not with this blood coursing through my body, no. I know you said time and again to rise above it, but it's difficult. Your words, they gave me strength but I realize that it's not enough. Such strength is lacking in the face of generations upon generations of cursed bloodlines. The Sin my ancestor bore would be carried to me... And as such, I can only bring misfortune. That's why, I think the Grail can't grant my Wish, because I do not deserve any wish. What happiness you, Moritoki and Lord Shingen brought me is already too much. With my husband I tasted love, with my Lord I realized duty, and with you I came to know a peaceful world. I have killed and killed, I am cursed and I admire you for you too are cursed... Yet you rise above it time and again at the cost of your happiness, of your body and of your spirit... While I'm just a coward."

Chiyome let out a shaky breath as tears began to fill her eyes. She wiped them away as she shook her head.

"I'm sorry," Chiyome said as she lowered her head, "I must have disappointed you."

"You're wrong," you breathed as you looked at her. The leaves fell from the tree as you clenched your fist, "I don't think you don't deserve it. But I realize that my words won't suffice just as you said."

"What do you mean?" Chiyome asked as she blinked in surprise just as you moved. You wrapped one arm around her waist and pulled her close to hug her.

Holding her tight, you kept her steady as you spoke, "Tell me, what is it that you want? I want to hear it...Directly from you."

Chiyome froze stiff in your hold before she grit her teeth and hugged you back. Her arms wrapped around you and gripped you hard as she buried her head on your chest. You could feel her warmth and trembling as she held on for dear life. She was breathing hard, mustering her strength as she spoke the words she couldn't utter before.

The facade was gone.

Chiyome embraced you tightly as she spoke in a cracked voice, "Please... Help me."

The skies darkened and so did the scenery. The noble house behind you both started to crumble and break apart, the walls peeling and the floors flying off.

"Please... Forgive... Me..."

You were given a vision of Hell and the Rivers of Sanzu, spider lilies filling your vision as Chiyome's heart turned turbulent. The pain and sorrow, her ultimate fear and that which gave her power shaped her Spirit Origin appeared before you. You and Chiyome were now sitting on a stone bench above a land of skull bone.

She held on to you as you stared down that which haunted her.

Orochi was its name.

The God deigned you to have audience with it. It was a massive black Serpent coiled over ancient Shrine, gazing down on you with contempt. A Phantasmal Beast of great might, one may even consider it truly divine in its splendor.

"Please... Save me," Chiyome pleaded in a tearful tone.

Paraiso
​

[] "This time, I'll grant it for you. Feel free to join me."
[] "I'll save you. So don't cry. It's time to wake up. I'll make this quick."
[] "So this is the curse ailing you. Fortunately, I'm an expert in dealing with curses."
[] Write in...

 

[AnonymousRabbit]

[] "I'll save you. So don't cry. It's time to wake up. I'll make this quick."

It was a writhing black beast which had turned Chiyome's heart its home. It was the same God she was beholden to as a Miko, a Priestess to appease and placate its wrath. From the time she was born and long before then, this curse had constricted the bloodline which she hailed from. It was from this monster in which generations of souls suffered from a sin they did not commit.

Such was the magnitude of the Serpent's Curse. It was so ingrained into Chiyome's being that it became a source of her power. With each prayer she was blessed with strength and speed, with every hymn she was given powers beyond human, and with every sacrifice the God would answer her call. But at the same time while it granted her many boons, it ultimately skewed her karma.

As such, she as an unfortunate soul.

This was her Curse.

Spoiler: BGM

GRAND BATTLE
VS
BLACKENED SCALES
FRAGMENT OF OROCHI​

And you did not shirk from it.

"I'll save you. So don't cry," you whispered into her ear as you hugged her tight as your eyes glared straight at the Serpent, "It's time to wake up... So I'll make this quick."

You placed your hand on her shoulder and gently pushed her aside, walking towards the Phantasmal Beast. Bone crunched beneath your shoes as your coat swayed behind you. You felt your circuits burn as your flesh was covered in runes. You'll have to go all out here if you were going to wake her up. You were hoping to save this for Minerva but you had other things to deal with.

The Snake let out a hiss, a cruel sneer at your defiance. In the end, you were just a Magus... But for this job, you were the perfect fit for it.

"If it's a curse, no matter what it is I can take it on. Still, don't you find it shameful? Bothering such a woman like her, don't you have anything better to do?" you asked as you looked up at your foe.

SKRAAAAAAAAAGGGGGHHHH!!!

"How petty," you breathed as you held out your hand to summon a black Box, "This might sting a little then. Shine... Silver Light of Hope..."

You crushed the box and felt your hand be skewered by curses. You endured as silver light burst forth from it and you held in it a weapon. Raising the sword, you moved to jump. Rising high, you flew to meet the approaching serpent head.

"Elpis(Faux Pandora)," you declared as you slashed.

The God in its arrogance did not evade. It lunged forth towards the gleaming silver light seeking to snuff it out only to feel pain. Pain from the silver weapon the Magus held in his hand. He cut through its lower jaw, slicing open the powerful curse which made up the Serpent's body. No normal steel or weak blade should be able to cut it but the human had done it.

Blood flew into the air before you cut through, taking another swing and chopping a line through the creature's neck. It felt pain, it was in agony, the bite of the silver sword had reminded it of pain it had felt in the past. The Serpent roared as it manifested another head to sweep towards the human.

"Watch out!" Chiyome cried out as you turned.

"AEGIS!" you roared as a golden shield came between you and the Serpent, causing it to strike your defenses and pushing you out of the air. You hit the ground and rolled before crouching to a stop. You looked up as your magic circuits felt like they were on fire. Golden shields appeared and sheltered you as four more heads swept by and bounced off from above you.

Spoiler: BGM

Gravity runes reversed beneath you and gave you the boost you needed. Kicking off the ground, you cut off the head of the Serpent above you. The monster shuddered as you turned and focused on the gravity runes beneath you. Your body lurched and turned, evading the other heads as you were pulled down, slicing past their blackened scales as you hit the ground.

The Serpent screamed before dragging one head along the ground to run you over. A body moved fast nearby and grabbed you by the waist, only for Chiyome to carry you out of the way. The two of you landed some distance away as she set you down.

"Master!" She cried out.

"Finally joined the fun?" you asked as you raised your sword, "There's nothing to be scared of, you know? Let this curse feed on my blood. With such a malevolent beast, you're bound to get some grudges."

The Serpent turned your way and roared as it moved through the ground and lunged at you.

"Why don't you say hello?" you swept your hand through the air as spectral hands reached out from the ground and grabbed hold of the Serpent's necks. The Cries of the Dead and those that cursed the serpent echoed through the battlefield.

Kicking off the ground, you jumped towards one head as it looked up at you in anger. You drove your sword into its head, being flung up the air as it struggled just as a tail swept by and knocked you out of the air. The Evil Spirits sought to bind down the monster as you hit the ground, blood leaving your lips as you grit your teeth.

"Hans," Chiyome called for you.

"It's not so tough," you told her as the Orochi broke free from the Evil Spirits you had called. You stood up as you walked past her, "Think you can keep up?"

You ran forward as one of the heads rushed at you. It opened its maw to swallow you whole but you simply raised another shield. Your circuits fired up and your eyes shined, a golden shield manifested before you and was promptly shattered, leading the head to come crashing down where you stood. You turned in the air and stabbed down your sword on its spine before you saw two more heads come by you.

You deflected them with consecutive Aegis summons, your barrier shattering but giving you time to hold on as the head you were on ascended. You were tossed into the air and you were greeted by the sight of a waiting maw beneath you. You held out your sword and etched a rune of ice beneath you, expanding it and driving an icicle into the monster's head.

Its hardened scales withstood the falling icicle but the move was enough for you to cut its eyes out, spiraling down its body and peeling away at its scales. Landing on the ground, you looked up to see three heads come for you, fangs bared as you cracked a smile. You held up your sword and raised your shield, their fangs crushing Aegis all too easily as you were blown into the air.

Turning to look down, one of them flew straight at you and was too fast for you to react.

CHOMP

It took your right leg.

Pain surged through your body as the Serpent managed to get your right leg, its body moving fast enough to knock you out of the air. You fell... The ground slammed into your back and you blacked out for a moment. Elpis flew through the air and hit the ground beside you. Opening your eyes, the Serpent seemed to laugh in its shrill voice as you bled out.

Another limb gone, huh? That's not...Funny.

You moved, dragging your body to your sword. Elpis glimmered just out of your reach as you gasped for breath. You reached out to take it until a hand grasped the hilt. You stared at Chiyome before giving her a satisfied smile.

"Finally decided?" you asked her as you tried ignoring the pain of your injury.

"Yes," Chiyome replied as she lowered silver sword, its form changing from a long sword to a katana in her grasp, "If you're so eager, I apologize for my indecisiveness. Above all else, my Lord's will takes precedence than my own Curse."

"That so?" you chuckled as you applied a rune on your wound.

"You already saved me... From my grief, my loneliness, and this heavy weight in my chest. Now you've given me the means to tame this pain of mine," Chiyome said as she glanced at you, her kimono breaking apart into light as it was replaced by her garb as a shrine maiden.

Red strands...

"You're a remarkable man, Hans. I hope you're prepared for what comes after this," Chiyome warned you as she faced the Serpent as it sneered her way, "I... I am not afraid anymore, Lord Orochi."

The Serpent roared in anger as Chiyome held her head high.

"Your orders... Master," Assassin asked you in her quiet voice.

The Saved​

[] "Show no Mercy."
[] "Never Hesitate."
[] "Take back your Freedom."

 

[AnonymousRabbit]

[] "Take back your Freedom."

Many had their own takes on what it meant to be free. To be free of problems, of pain, of grief and of suffering, humans have struggled to achieve these things in their own way. Sometimes through purpose, determination of perhaps love.

But for her, what did Freedom mean? She had glimpses of it but she never truly saw it in full. She had a taste before it was robbed from her. Many had told her about it, many had tried helping her see but this curse always clouded her sight.

She found courage to fight back and take back what should have been hers. Generations of Family Heads have suffered... They surely wouldn't forgive her for this. They would not allow her peace, they would not allow her reprieve or even a moment's comfort.

But that didn't matter. None of it did. None of the centuries of pain and suffering matters now. Right now, she would do as her Lord... As her Master told her to.

It was a simple order.

"Take back your Freedom," he ordered.

What did Freedom mean? It was simple. It was to live as she pleased unbound and unshackled. Just this once... Mochizuki Chiyome wanted to fight for her Life.

Orochi howled as the bleeding stumps missing their heads regenerated. The ground rumbled as Chiyome held her katana and Hans' sword, Elpis brimming white with power as she looked up to see the Serpent dive towards her.

The ground bloomed with spider lilies as she jumped, dodging the first strike of the Serpent before landing back. More heads came but she expertly deflected them away from her body before striking. Sensing her intent, the monster reeled away before spewing forth black smoke.

The creature lunged and Assassin parried its fangs away before running to the side as several heads smashed down to get her. One slipped through the wall of dust and bared its fangs.

Chiyome deflected the attack before swiping at another, clashing with her foe easily dwarfing her size as it sought to crush her. The sound of steel singing echoed throughout the landscape but that wasn't the only thing that was happening.

The spider lilies bloomed and fireflies began to dance, lighting up over the numerous skulls that filled the land.

Hans turned his gaze to his Servant beating away the Serpent God lodged in her soul. He slowly understood now what this was and he couldn't help but chuckle.

"A Shrine Maiden and her God... A dance to appease her Deity but this one is made through blades and blood," Hans murmured as he etched a rune on his bleeding leg to ease the pain, "Guess this too is your duty."

Chiyome held up a sealing paper and tossed it up, summoning the spectre of Orochi behind her by drawing through her God's power. The Serpent was offended by her flagrant use of its power, attacking her just as the spectre stopped it for a few seconds.

Kicking off the ground, Chiyome avoided the attack of two heads as she took to the air. Thin wires with hooks on them latched on to the Serpent's scales as she held Elpis in hand.

She didn't feel fear.

She only held the desire to win.

Dragging herself down, she spun and sliced off one of the Serpent's heads. The White Sword splitting cursed imbued scales that no steel should be able to cut, and Elpis severed every pieces in one brilliant silvery stroke.

Chiyome saw a memory...

Of the Night her family tossed her away for her curse.

She landed on the ground and watched as black smoke surged towards her. Swinging her sword, she cut through the darkness and saw fangs come towards her.

They were too close to dodge, she would have to def-

"AEGIS!"

A voice cried out and the Serpent head smashed into the shield of light. Chiyome's eyes widened as she saw her Master raise his hand to give her some help.

"Go!" He ordered as the shield shattered, allowing Chiyome to run and slice through the Serpent's jaw, splitting it before jumping, breaking through the roof of its mouth.

Another memory came.

It was the night her husband asked for her hand in marriage. The first time she truly embraced joy.

Hans held up his hand and etched a rune in the air, a gravity rune which quickly pulled Chiyome out of the air from the Serpent's reach. She landed on the ground as her Master grunted his breath and nodded.

Assassin fought.

" Flaming Fans (Flame Arts: Sunset )," Chiyome declare as she created a mist of oil before igniting it just as the Serpent descended. She moved aside to evade before slamming her foot against the Serpent's jaw. She turned and flipped back to dodge another strike before jumping as the Orochi swept its head to get her.

Using her wires, she pulled herself towards the Serpent's head and drove her blade into its eye. The monster screamed as she pulled it out before the rest moved to attack her. Standing her ground she deflected their strikes before rushing towards her foe.

The Orochi moved back as each heads' eyes suddenly shined. Chiyome's body stiffened as she gasped in pain upon looking down at herself. The snake imprinted marks all over her body burned bright making her lose speed just as a Snake Head moved in to swallow her. Kicking off the ground, she let the Snake pass beneath her before driving her sword into its skull.

The Serpent reeled from Elpis' bite as Chiyome rode its head as it raised itself. She pulled the sword out and roared while driving it down again. Cursed blood flew through the air before she dragged the silver sword across the skull and cut it open.

Another memory came.

She remembered the drums of war and that cloudy day. It was the day that she received the news of her beloved's death. Such grief and pain, it was almost like the feeling was choking her. It was then that she felt the curse take root once more.

Soaring through the air, Assassin turned around to see the other heads rise up to meet her.

" Hidden Raven (Cloud Arts: Rumbling Skies)," Assassin breathed as her body felt lighter as she fought. She produced three smoke bombs and dropped it all towards the Heads. The bombs exploded and robbed the monster of its vision for the moment until they saw nothing in the air.

Assassin had already lost them at that point, allowing her to quietly blend in with the Serpent's shadows. A golden light appeared at the distance and took the Orochi's attention and it turned its gazes towards the injured Master bleeding on the ground.

"Over here, you stupid worm," Hans chuckled as he got on his knees.

The Orochi howled and lunged through the darkness to get at him but he remained calm. Assassin used this time to secretly ride on the monster's back and run on one of its many heads, rushing upwards until one of the heads saw her. She jumped and had it bite on the neck she had been running on before driving her sword into the throat of the next head she latched on.

She flipped and pulled her sword out as a Head came in for the kill, biting down on the neck she had been on. Chiyome then kicked off where she had been standing to raise her sword and lodge it directly into the lead Head's brain stem. It screamed as she tore the sword out and cut through the creature's entire head in one stroke.

Landing on the ground, she turned to see the remaining four heads eye her with hatred as the curse wracked her body in pain. She gasped before falling down her knees as a memory surfaced once more.

She was but a creature of misfortune. Her hands caked in blood and gore, her mind burned from the atrocities she committed, her soul weary from the lives she had ruined... She fell down her knees, wounded and dying... This curse will die with her. It would die and it would remain her own. It was with this thought that she passed on, fading as a true Shinobi would, forgotten alongside this curse.

Opening her eyes, she looked up to see Orochi howl to swallow her whole. A shield appeared to halt it in its tracks, keeping its jaws apart before it was crushed.

"This isn't my Fate," Chiyome breathed as she held the silver sword, "This time, I will choose. Right now, I choose to fight for him!"

She jumped driving her sword into the monster's head. She gripped Elpis hard as it killed the Curse which imbued the Orochi's scales. She ran the blade through the Phantasmal Beast's body, ripping it open as she ran along its back and split it in half. The remaining heads screamed in pain as the Curse in her blood sought to devour her instead.

However...

Chiyome cut the fourth tail as she split the body. The creature writhed in agony as she looked down what was at her feet. It was a piece of bone bearing the familiar shape of a Servant's weapon. Chiyome recognized it well having clashed against the man who wielded it.

She looked up to stare at the Heads remaining before they howled and rushed her down.

For him...

Assassin reached down and drew the sword from Orochi's tail, dragging it upwards as she held it tight.

"Let this Appease you, Oh God of Mine," Chiyome whispered as she swung the blade, " Snake Slaying Dance of Heaven(Ame-no-Habakiri)."

Black Lightning danced through the blade Assassin held as she slashed upwards. Her grip tightened as she turned her entire body to accompany the swing before magical energy howled. A grand explosion followed which deafened the landscape, cutting not only through scale and bone buteven through the veil of night which covered the heavens. It was a single, powerful swing.

The Serpent's Head that was in the way was sliced in half, torn by the sheer power held behind the blade as Chiyome drew her strength from both her Curse and her Master.

Through sheer brute force, the Shrine Maiden was able to cut apart the God's scales and obliterate the head in one stroke. The Orochi was sent reeling as it struggled to get away from Assassin. She held in both her hands the Silver Sword Elpis and Orochi's Tailbone, a blade resembling the Servant Saber's in this war.

Her body was ravaged by her curse but she remained standing. Falling down her knees, she let go of Elpis as it shattered in motes of silver light. Turning her head upwards, she looked at her God, at the source of her Curse with its last remaining head.

It turned its gaze down and lowered its head to her...

And so...

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

Your name was Hans Derrinsmith and you just woke up. Opening your eyes, you realized that you had been slumped over the bed before you for god knows how long. Your entire body ached as you slowly began to move. Your mind froze as you lost feeling in your legs, leading you to look down to see them intact.

It was just something that happened in the mind but did it feel so real. You looked to the side to see that Assassin was up. Moonlight shined down from the window to light up the room. She didn't seem to have noticed you yet but once you started moving yourself, she finally turned your way.

"Finally up?" you asked her with a gentle smile, "Boy, that was an experience. Can't say I had fun because it sure wasn't. Still, I do hope you didn't mind me there messing up the place. If it means anything, I'm ready to apologize but-"

Assassin moved from her place on the bed to hug you tight. You were cut off your words as she held you with shaky arms but with still surprising strength of a Servant. You went still for a moment before smiling and running your hand along her hair. You hugged her back and sighed.

"You... Did not have to. Had you used a Command Seal, I still would have woken up. You could have died. If you did, what would happen to your goals? To your dream? What about your sister, Hans?" Chiyome questioned you as she held you tight. She grabbed onto your clothes and looked you in the eyes as she grit her teeth, "I'm just your Servant... So why..?"

"Because... If I have the power to help, why shouldn't I?" you replied as you held up your hand to wipe her tear, "Besides, you feel better for it, don't you? Compared to your suffering, what's my efforts compared to it all? If it helps you stay strong, I'd give this arm and maybe a leg too. You're a Servant, yes, but you're also a person. Now that you're free from your Curse, what do you plan now? Will you sit here and argue with me or will you help me win this War?"

Assassin tightened her grip on your shirt. She gave you a hard look before replying, "Right now, My Lord? Neither."

She then pulled you close and pressed her lips against yours. This wasn't the first time it happened but this time, you expected this but you were still taken aback. You didn't resist as you felt her warmth spread on your lips, sending electricity down your spine. You felt your chest tighten as your mind swam from the feeling until she let you go.

You were left blinking in surprise as she smiled at you.

"Twice now... I hope you don't mind, Master," Chiyome said as she met your gaze.

Waking Up
​

[] "I expected it. Honest."
[] "No. I don't mind."
[] "Will there be a third? Maybe I won't be as awkward then."
=======
Note: Again, sorry for the late update. I just got a new job and I'm transitioning for now. I think I can write quests during it though! I just need to get used to it.

 

[AnonymousRabbit]

[] "Will there be a third? Maybe I won't be as awkward then."

You held your lips and replied, "Will there be a third? Maybe I won't be as awkward then."

"Indulging you will only make you fond of it," Assassin said as she placed a finger on your lips, "Hope this has cleared your eyes a bit."

"Oh believe me, I'm well aware. You can stop looking at me weird every time," you replied with a sigh, "Still, is this a Kunoichi thing?"

"You'll know when I use my skills from that trade," Chiyome giggled before meeting your gaze, "Thank you. My heart feels lighter now."

"And this won't get in the way of winning the war?" You asked with a raised eyebrow.

"Of course not. But I'm going to have fun while we go through it now," Assassin said as her eyes had a playful glint in them.

You gave her a look before speaking, "Still, even if this is how you feel, you know it won't last."

"But I can at least be happy till we part ways, don't you think? The future is nice and all but what matters to me is the present," Assassin said as she held your hand and placed it on her cheek, "My everything for your victory, My Lord."

You took your hand and instead rubbed her head, "How mature. Well then, let's make the most of this War while we can."

For the first time in awhile, you truly felt at peace.

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

Breakfast came in the morning with Assassin cooking it. Miyu seemed chipper than the night before and Ayumi was eating more. Sakura was able to sit on the table alongside all of you but Lancer had decided to stay as far away as possible while glaring a hole at the back of your neck.

Someone sure wasn't happy with Assassin waking up.

"How's the food?" You asked Miyu with a raised eyebrow.

"Satisfactory," Miyu nodded as she took another bite.

Sakura smiled and said, "I could use some pointers if you don't mind, Assassin."

"It's nothing. Truly," Assassin said with an embarassed look while looking aside.

"It's not bad at all. It reminds me of home," Ayumi said as she used her chopsticks, "It's great."

Assassin glanced at you while you simply smiled her way. You then decided to take off their attention off her now that they were eating. You had to admit, Assassin's cooking had grown superb on a short amount of time.

It was almost like some manner of magecraft itself.

"I do have something to say," you began as you set down your utensil. You glanced at the others and said, "We'll be going out as soon as we can to retrieve Luvia."

Sakura tensed at that before frowning, "On your own?"

"We don't have time. While I trust that Luvia isn't someone to die easily, I'm also privy to how Magi treat their prisoners. She'll most likely end up being used as bait for us to grab but before that could happen, I would like to tip things to favor us," you explained as you leaned on your seat.

"Wouldn't that only put her in more danger?" Ayumi asked with an uncertain look.

"Better now than wait for whatever they have plan set in. Besides, Archer's Master is a mercenary and if Theodore is anything to go by, he'll be the meticulous sort," you replied as you sighed.

"You want to rob them of the initiative, is that it?" Sakura guessed as she met your gaze.

"And isn't that what we're supposed to do? Assassin and I will be more active... If it means taking Miss Luvia back, we'll get it done," you answered with a calm tone.

"You speak with such confidence. And how can you succeed where we failed?" Lancer growled as she emerged from Spirit Form.

Sakura gave her a look, "Lancer."

"By offering ourselves up," you answered as you glanced her way, "Your group didn't account for that man's intervention that night. Surely even you can take him on now that he's revealed himself... Or are you wary after a simple defeat?"

"Hans," Assassin intoned as she gave you a sharp look.

Sakura prepared to stop Lancer but the Servant merely glared at you.

"Seems like you're looking better now that your Servant is up. Good. At least you can put up a fight later," Lancer hissed under her breath. She crossed her arms and walked by Sakura's side, "So, do you have a plan or are you just going to put yourself on a platter?"

"Well... I'm open to suggestions," you nodded as you gave her a smirk.

Sakura and Chiyome simply looked defeated as you and Lancer glared at one another. Fortunately, someone spoke up besides the two of you. Miyu raised her hand in the midst of the tension.

"Minerva would want me too. That mercenary has his sights on obtaining me as well, which is why there's a high chance of them working together. We can split their attention at least and leave one side to the other," Miyu said as she pushed aside her meal to look your way, "The Luctworths seek to win my approval one way or the other and they can't deny my usefulness in their plans...I would like to leverage my worth if it can split those two factions up. Lancer can protect me during that time."

"But wouldn't that just attract Rider's Master too?" Ayumi asked in concern.

"All the better. It'll be a three way fight between Servants. A battle Lancer can excel in with her talents," Miyu said as she clenched her fist, "This will make it safer for Hans and Assassin to take on Archer."

"That would risk you, however," you pointed out.

"Miss Luvia doesn't deserve to suffer. In fact, as the Grail, I see her as an outsider to the war. She's not even supposed to be involved," Miyu said as she looked between you and Sakura, "And the lives of outsiders have no purpose being spilt in this battlefield... Which is why I have no plans of granting the Mercernary's Wish for violating that. I'll do this in exchange for Miss Sakura's promise to keep Miss Luvia from direct conflicts for the duration of this War."

Lancer grimaced but otherwise said nothing while Ayumi could only remain quiet. Sakura sighed before giving the girl a gentle smile.

"I see. You're not wrong. If your mind is made up, then I'll respect that decision," Sakura said as she looked towards you, "Then I'll leave Luvia's rescue to you?"

"You can count on me," you answered with a nod.

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

"I feel envious,"Ayumi admitted as she washed the dishes.

Sakura glanced at the younger girl with raised eyebrows before smiling sadly, "About what?"

"About being useful. At this point, what am I but dead weight to all of you. Had I been better I would still have Berserker. I would be able to do something," Ayumi murmured as she cleaned a bowl. She had a resigned expression as she spoke, "I can't believe this. I set out to run away from these sorts of problems but here I am agonizing over this. I must look stupid."

Sakura stared at the girl as she dried the bowls and plates. She then set down the plate in her hand and said, "We can regret the past all we want but it's in the present that we can make the biggest difference. It's fine to feel that way but you can help in more ways than you could imagine."

"I'm a third rate Magus, Miss Matou. I shouldn't even be here... But yes, while that's true I still want to do something,"Ayumi said as she turned to meet the Matou's gaze, "Everyone is trying so hard and here I am..."

"Sometimes all we could do is be safe. I know that feeling well. That helpless feeling. It sticks to the back of your throat and you can't quite breathe. I'm well familiar with that feeling. It's why I'm here after all," Sakura said as she looked down at her Command Seal, "But I found that doing things my own way helped. I feel quite hypocritical considering my own reasons for joining this War but staying put here is the best you could do. It may not be the greatest feeling but giving our allies the peace of mind of our safety can help a lot."

"Why did you join this War? Frankly speaking you don't seem to be the type," Ayumi wondered with a frown.

Sakura smiled as if she was remembering something she'd rather forget, "Well... Let's say years of pent up emotions could do nightmares to one's heart."

She held a hand to her chest as she grimaced.

"Such ugly emotions just ended up spilling out. Like mud from a cup. I was saved regardless by people I hurt. Let's just say that my magecraft went out of control," Sakura replied as she tried to act tough. She remembered though...

The feeling of vermin beneath her flesh, crawling on her back and making her feel filthy. The last haunting laughter of her Grandfather still ringed in her ears and plagued her nightmares. But she was older now, stronger... She was in this fight to strengthen her spirit. Seeing the girl before her now reminded her of her helpless self.

"I learned to trust the people around me. Hans, Miyu and Assassin... They may seem odd but they seem like good people. If anything were to happen to you, I'm sure they'll help you too. You can't help them directly but right supporting them in quiet times like this helps," Sakura said as she held up her finger with a nod, "Just by being Miyu's friend is helpful. Even without your Servant, I'm sure you can do a lot of things while here."

Ayumi considered her words before looking down at her plate, "You know, sometimes I wonder if the girl possessing my body would be more helpful here. But if you say so, I can try my best too."

"That's good," Sakura smiled.

Ayumi cracked a smile too before a white hot pain flashed through her mind. She dropped the bowl into the sink where it clattered before she fell on her knees. Sakura moved to catch her and support her.

"Ayumi?!" Sakura called in alarm.

"I'm fine, Miss Sakura. This body... It's just not cooperating sometimes," Ayumi spoke as she kept her head down, her voice clear and bereft of pain. Lancer appeared from sensing Sakura's distress and stood by.

"What happened?" Lancer questioned with a sharp voice.

"She collapsed," Sakura answered in a worried tone before turning to Ayumi, "Maybe you should rest, Ayumi."

"I... Think I will. You're so kind,"Ayumi replied as she met Sakura's gaze, "Your words gave me much to think about. Thank you."

Sakura didn't know why but she felt a chill run down her spine. She didn't sense anything different about Ayumi but... No, maybe it's just her imagination. She then turned to her Servant, "Lancer, help her to her room. I'll speak with Hans about this."

"We'll go together," Lancer said with a frown but Sakura shook her head.

"It's fine," Sakura reassured her, "Just take her. I'll clean up here."

Something was wrong. She could feel it but she'll just have to ask Hans about it. He should know more.

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

You sat on the bench as your breath smoked from the cold. You had a can of coffee from a vending machine at hand while you thought about your next move. This wasn't the first time you were up against a Merc.

"Bet he won't be as kind as that Kairi fellow," you sighed as you shook your head.

"Reminiscing?" Assassin asked as she spoke from the rails ahead of you.

You looked up to meet her gaze, "Well, I'm trying to think of ways to kill an Immortal. I doubt it'll be as simple as killing her Master. Worst case is I have to face him myself."

"But knowing how he trounced Luvia and Sakura at the same time, I can see that you're hesitant," Assassin noted as she crossed her arms.

"I fought a fully functioning Doll designed to kill me specifically in the last war, I don't get why I'm apprehensive about this," you said with no small amount of frustration.

"Well, first of all, you don't know anything about our foe. Aside from utilizing runic magecraft and some advanced necromancy, there's little you know. Unlike Sakura, Caster's Master and Manaka, this is an unknown foe," Assassin calmly pointed out as she gave you a small smile, "I can see that this is a glaring weakness of yours."

"I can't exactly send you out again. We can use the fact that the enemy probably thinks you're out of commission to our advantage," you said as you tapped your can on your knee. You then took a big sip and sighed, "Big risks all around but we can't waste the chance Miyu and the others are giving us."

"That is true. But it is an unreasonable task, fighting a new and unknown foe with little information while rescuing someone? You're a Magus, not a miracle worker," Assassin reminded you as she shook her head.

"There's a first time for everything," you replied as you leaned back on your seat. The door leading back into the building opened and Assassin concealed herself.

Sakura Matou appeared in a light green coat and cream colored skirt. Her hair was tied into a ponytail as she walked up to you.

"Did you have anything to discuss?" you asked with a curious look.

"It's Ayumi. She just collapsed suddenly," Sakura said as she rubbed her arm, "She seemed fine but I'm worried."

"Is this normal?" you frowned as you leaned forward.

"This isn't the first time either. She says that it's because her body had been tampered with but I'm not certain if I believe," Sakura answered as she met your gaze, "Do you think it's something else?"

Other than the fact that Manaka was slated to come back on Christmas Day if you didn't end the War? You're not sure what to think but this could be worrisome. Something was probably triggering this but you didn't exactly have the leisure of figuring it out. Luvia came first before this but this could spiral out of control if you leave it unattended.

"What if I told you... That the girl whom turned Ayumi like that will be returning and confronting me?" you proposed with a raised eyebrow. You carefully watchedas Sakura's expression turned from worried to incredulous.

"What?" Sakura blinked.

"Well...I guess I only told Luvia this given you two had a spat when I had the chance," you said as you tossed your empty can to the trash, "The Blackened, you're familiar with them, right? She was my ally at the beginning stages of the War. A powerful near omnipotent Magus possessed Ayumi and changed her appearance. Now, what I suspect is that since her body has changed, she's finding it difficult to adjust now that they've switched. That may be the cause of her collapses... Among other factors."

"Like the girl that possessed her coming back?" Sakura said as she grimaced.

"Ayumi is a bomb that we'll have to deal with but I'm more concerned about Luvia now. There could be other triggers besides what we know but... I don't suppose there's blonde, handsome Knight Kings on white horses around now, huh?" you chuckled hoping to lighten the mood.

Sakura didn't share your sentiment as she crossed her arms, "And when do you exactly plan to set out?"

Rescue Plan
​

[] Tonight. You won't be wasting time. The longer you idle, Luvia will be in a worse state.
[] Tomorrow. You have preparations to make. You're up against an unknown after all.
.....
....
...

The sound of luggage rolled through the streets. A woman in a black suit was consulting a tourist's map as she walked, her green eyes hidden behind thick sunglasses. People would at time stop to look at her, captivated by the sight of her as she tried blending with the crowd. She could only sigh and wonder if she was standing out more than usual even when she was backing her homeland's soil.

From what she could tell, she was nearing her destination. At the very least she found solace in her journey being over. Still, she couldn't help but notice the heavy atmosphere which hung over the city. Christmas was just nine days away or so yet the city felt tense and suffocating. While Christmas songs and carols drifted through the air, the jubilant cheer carried by the holidays wasn't present among the people.

"Sakura and Luvia haven't been in contact either," She murmured as she saw the overall signs of a Grail War being fought in the shadows.

The woman finally found her destination, a small church tucked between two buildings. Pulling her luggage behind her, she moved forward. If those two couldn't be contacted then she would have to consult with the Church first. She didn't want to risk Rin panicking any more than she should upon finding out that her Sister had gone silent for the past few days.

She stepped inside the Church and moved aside as some Church goers passed her. Looking ahead, she was greeted by peculiar nun with snow white hair and golden eyes. The Nun raised an eyebrow upon seeing her before making an approach.

"Greetings traveler and welcome to the Lord's abode," the Nun greeted politely though the politeness didn't reach her eyes. They were calculating and cold, "My name is Caren Hortensia. I manage this Church in the place of the Priest. How may I help you?"

The woman took her glasses off, "My name is Elise Watson. I'm Tohsaka Rin's Aide and I'm hoping to find information regarding Sakura Matou and her companion. You wouldn't happen to know anything, Miss Administrator?"

 

[AnonymousRabbit]

[] Tonight. You won't be wasting time. The longer you idle, Luvia will be in a worse state.

"We'll be going tonight," you said as you met her gaze, "We can't afford to waste time. Especially not at this stage of the war."

"Forcing an encounter this soon, they may realize something is amiss," Sakura said with a worried look.

"I get that but it's a risk we'll have to take," you replied as you leaned against the wall, "Sorry for pushing this on you so soon."

"No it's okay. You're the one going out there with no reinforcements," Sakura said as she rubbed her shoulder. She then met your gaze, "Will it be really okay?"

"You'll just have to trust us. Luvia said that you have a friend coming by. Do you recall?" You asked her with a raised eyebrow.

"Yes. She... She should be arriving soon. I'll try and contact her but with how this whole situation is set up, I think it would be better if we kept her existence hidden for now," Sakura said before adding, "I want a few cards of my own on hand."

"It's your choice. Just take care of Miyu for us. We'll get Luvia back from the Merc," you assured her as you got up your seat, "Archer will die by tonight."

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

Night soon came just as the sun descended down the west. The city came to life as lights filled every building even as the clouds above covered the heavens. Your breath smoked as you looked down your watch, your coat swaying with the wind as you walked down a sidewalk with your cane in hand. Gripping hard on the silver handle, you were alert and awake for the battle that was to come.

You kept your nerves at ease as you made your way towards the giant Christmas Tree on the City Square up ahead. The holiday cheer was in full swing at this point. A good nine days till Christmas was left on the calendar after all and people were prepping as best they could. Though the heavy atmosphere around the city was noticeable, that wasn't enough to cancel the whole holidays.

The city was tenacious like that.

You were being hunted and what better way to entice your hunters by showing the huge target on your back. They would certainly enjoy that.

Snow began to fall though their descent was gentle. You kept moving as the sounds of Christmas Carols filled the air. You looked ahead and stopped among others waiting to cross the street. Looking around, you kept a calm appearance while you waited. You noticed some civilians stealing glances at you while you waited before the light turned green.

Stepping ahead, you crossed the street as the nearby traffic stopped. You could feel several gazes behind your back.

"Do it on my mark," you breathed as you stepped on the other side of the street.

A crowd awaited ahead and you decided to walk with them. Families and tourists walked by one another as you felt the presences behind you follow. You then tapped your cane once and a cold breeze passed you. Behind you, Assassin had managed to cut the throats of your pursuers once by one. Stabbing in their bodies before driving a blade into their skulls, only to move away with the silence of a wraith.

Bodies fell but no one paid them any mind. That's not normal, did they have charms to conceal their presence from others even in death? You didn't linger as you continued walking towards the Christmas Tree. Reindeers and Santa Claus Snowmen were being judged for a contest as you neared, the lights from the Tree twinkling like hundreds of stars.

You stopped upon noticing that some people glanced your way. A man looking at his phone by a lamppost, a couple taking pictures of one another, an elderly man sitting by the bench with his own cane and many more. It would seem that at least a hundred people were silently observing you.

They knew you would be here.

You then turned to see a man walk towards you. He wore a white winter coat and had short blonde hair. He had a familiar look about him, only then did you realize that he looked similar to the old Hitman you once fought. That man named Theodore. Then this man must be his kin or something. To utilize another person as a decoy Master was simple yet difficult to pull off.

Had Manaka not killed the old man when she did, they would only cause more pain at this stage of the war.

You're way luckier than you should be.

"Are you Hans Derrinsmith?" the man asked as he breathed smoke from his lips, lowering his cigarette as he met your gaze.

"You should know that by now given your job. Though I suppose it's some sort of weird courtesy thing?" you wondered with a raised eyebrow. You faced him before smiling, "Since I'm already famous, how about you tell me your name?"

The man narrowed his gaze before nodding, "Matthias Gwence. Grandson to Theodore Gwence, my ally and Caster's second Master."

"Eager to follow the old man to the grave? I can help you with that," you said as people passed by.

"On the contrary, I would like you to go see him for me. Though as things are, I doubt we can settle this the way you envisioned. You... Are a difficult man to kill, Mr. Derrinsmith. The past wars have forged you into the unkillable Magus you are now," Matthias said as he tossed aside his cigarette and crushed it underfoot, "And I have been given the honor of taking your head as my prize."

You stared at him as the snow fell, "How much?"

"Twenty Million in British Pounds," Matthias said as he raised his hands, "The Luctworth have paid a great deal for this."

"You can't fight me here or did you forget? We're a stone's throw away from the Clocktower. This war is being carefully observed and one wrong move could bring the entire Association down your head... So no fancy moves, Mr. Gwence," you warned him with a cold tone.

"Please, you give me little credit, Mr. Derrinsmith. I wouldn't be in this business if I were not able to calculate the risks and kill a few Enforcers," Matthias said as he held up his hand and snapped his finger.

.....

And yet nothing happened.

Matthias' eyes only sharpened.

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

Bodies were cut apart near rooftops. Bombs that have been planted were all taken off in quick succession with their planters killed by black serpents. A man sought to escape yet let out a death gurgle upon a katana being driven into his spine.

A snake's hiss was all that was left.
.....
....
...

You tapped your cane and caught the Mercenary's attention.

"You... Give me little credit, Mr. Gwence," you repeated his words as you leaned on your cane. You felt your circuits flare as you gripped your cane, "I wouldn't have won six wars not being able to keep up with the rabble I fight."

Matthias blinked before a smirk curled upon his lips, "You're an interesting man. It seems like you are worth hunting."

You didn't wait for him to react. As soon as another crowd of people came between you two, you activated a rune which hid your presence. A step above from the charm they used, you used the crowd to get away and make some distance. You made your way to the city library nearby as you left Archer's Master standing alone.

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

When the crowd vanished, Matthias noticed that Derrinsmith had vanished. It was inevitable but the hunt was only beginning. He placed a hand on his earpiece and spoke.

"Ladies and gentlemen, find him and kill him," Matthias ordered as he glanced at the library, "Archer has a snake to catch."

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

You stepped into the City Library, moving past the entrance and reception. You made your way to the rows of bookshelves nearby, glancing at a few people at the lounge reading their books. You felt a shiver run down your spine as you stopped and moved to a random aisle. There were several men that walked right in with noticeable mystic codes in hand.

You pressed your back against a shelf before you began walking up a set of stairs, climbing to the second floor. There were little to no people here so you quietly moved behind another shelf. You etched a rune on the ground and kept walking. Sliding your cane into the sheathe on your hip, you took out a pen and wrote at the back of books.

Footsteps came rushing up the stairs, you had to hurry.

You ripped a page out with your teeth before dropping the book. Inscribing a rune, it began to emit a glow before flying out of your hand. You watched it take to the air and get the attention of your pursuers. The paper split and shined with blinding green light. You walked to the far end of the second floor, drawing runes as you went.

You then pocketed the pen and moved to the next set of stairs. Your pursuers saw you.

"There!" one of them cried out as you turned away.

"Sweet dreams," you breathed as the bounded field activated, causing them to all fall one by one. Their consciousness were robbed, leaving them trapped within the confines of their minds.

Rising to the third floor, you looked out the window and down at the crowd by the Christmas Tree. You felt Assassin tug at your connection, causing you to hide behind a shelf to speak with her.

"Is this truly wise? I can't find Archer. I think it would be safer for you to have me there."

"I can handle a few grunts. Focus on searching for Archer's hiding spot. She has the advantage wherever she's perched at. I can't risk you getting tagged," you replied as you listened for the presence of others.

"...If you say so. Then what of that man?"

"I need him alive. He knows where Luvia is," you replied as you hovered your hand behind your waist where a handgun was strapped, "I'm sufficiently armed. If not more than I feel like I should be. Just find Archer and keep her out of my hair."

"Are those your orders, My Lord?"

You smiled, "Have fun, Assassin."

Five of whom you presumed to be Matthias' men stepped into the third floor. You cut your connection with Chiyome and grabbed hold of your cane to stand up. Now how will you play your cards?

Hide and Seek
​

[] Use your cane and cast your Curses to deal with your foes. It'll cost more of your prana but the kills are guaranteed.
[] Use your pen and inscribe your Runes to give you an edge. It's more flexible but won't guarantee the neutralization of your foes.
[] Use your handgun and Shoot through their magical defenses. You have six magazines worth of ammunition, no need to be stingy now.