Return of Lost Souls

by Starlight AT

A Demon Lord is prophesied to appear and the Problem Children are more than happy about it. Though this time there is only one hint regarding their identity; time. Memories buried away cause a stream of emotions to plague Izayoi's mind, just as the new Demon Lord community attacks the [No Names]! A soul once dead has returned. Sequel to "A Game of Memory."

21. It Seems Like We Are

Chapter 21: Seems Like We Are Doing All Sorts of Fighting?

Part 1

Deep within the main building of the [Draco Greif] alliance, the building surrounded and made from the water tree's roots, Sala Doltrake sighed. The recent game from [Jabberwocky] killed many community members, the numbers reaching triple digit, and caused the Water Tree to wither. Naturally the funeral ceremony would take place the day after tomorrow once repairs to the main center hall were finished. That was one problem solved, but now there was the water tree to think about.

(If it was simply a disease of sorts we could fix it...but this was the forceful change in the water's properties…)

Freshwater to saltwater. Normally it was possible to do the reverse with the right tools through desalinization, but that cloaked figure known as Mock Turtle could change the properties of the water he controls. How could they rid themselves of the saltwater without damaging the tree even further? [Underwood] had no such way of utilizing desalinization on such a large scale tree.

(If that alchemist is the real deal…a true Lunarian...he should be able to help right?)

Oh this dilemma….

Accepting help from a rogue of [Jabberwocky] or letting the Water Tree wither? Simply doing under the table negotiations with him would surely ruin the reputation of the community. But at the same time the area needed the water to sustain itself…

"...Dammit...If it was just me then I could take all the blame...but this affects everyone in the alliance as a whole….what do I do…"

As she allowed another sigh to escape, the door opened with a creak as Garol walked in. "Sorry to bother you Sala, just wanted to make sure everything was OK up here."

"Welcome home Garol." The salamander said fondly as she got up from her desk. "I was hoping for a small distraction."

"Stuck huh? I assume this is about the tree?" The cat asked as he took a seat in a chair across from her. Sala on the other hand left the desk and began walking around.

"Exactly that... Garol, hypothetically if you had to save an entire city but to do so would ruin the reputation of everyone involved, even the people of the city would you still be able to save it?"

"Hmm... I suppose I would save the city, reputation doesn't mean much without a home. But there is another part here correct?"

"To save the people you have to make a deal with one of the villains who performed the attack... I just don't know what to do." The woman sighed. "I want to save them but the alliance could fall by doing so..."

"Then there is something you need to know." The catman said with a small smile. "Fulcanelli, the apparent Lunarian is officially a guest of Shiroyasha." The salamander's eyes widened at that piece of news.

"And since she was once a [Floor Master] and a [Demon Lord], there will be no consequences to us asking for his help. Wish I knew that earlier instead of freezing over all this." She said with a sigh causing the cat to chuckle.

"What would you have chosen if he wasn't Shiroyasha's ally, out of curiosity?"

"I would have asked him to help us, even with the consequences. As you said, this is our home and we will not lose it no matter what. The people make up the community, but the land is our home. Together they help to create the wonderful area that is [Underwood], the location of the [Floor Master]s the [Draco Greif] alliance. We cannot be one without the other."

"...Hehehehe...it seems I will always be a student…" Sala lightly giggled as she nodded, having come to terms with her decision.

"Ahh but eventually you'll be the one to give advice, so take this lesson to heart." The cat man said nodding slightly. "So, should I send the message to him?"

"No, something tells me he is already aware of my choice. Am I correct, Fulcanelli?" Sala said as she turned her head to the wall, a small glyph glowing in wait.

"Of course. Glad to see you don't completely trust me." A voice called out, the words sounded scrambled slightly as if his voice was coming through a radio.

"You haven't exactly given me a reason to, considering you disappeared with the [Thousand Eyes] Shopkeeper and Faceless during the game." Sala responded as her eyes narrowed.

"We went to find the eye, I had no idea that they would beat us to it."

"Speaking of," Garol said interrupting the two. "Who was she?"

"Well, from what you told me earlier. It sounds like it was one of the twins. I'll explain more but right now let me handle the tree." With that the glyph vanished before the two could say anything.

"Twins?" Sala muttered.

"Weren't there a mention of twins in the storybook?"

"Yes, as a matter of fact...but THEM as the Leader of [Jabberwocky]? I would have thought for certain it would be Alice..."

"...I am more worried about how they came to be…"

"...? What do you mean?"

"Mrrr...it's difficult to say…" The catman lightly growled in uncertainty. How could he explain his theory? "Let me get back to you once I found some proof about my theory….."

"...Very well then…" Sala was not one to pry but even she knew something was on the beastman's mind. A sudden knock on the door caused the salamander to jump slightly to Garol's amusement. "Yes, who is it?"

"... Mandora of [Salamandra]." Sala's eye brow rose in surprise at her brother's visit. Looking at her guest, he seemed to shrug as if to say he was just as confused as she was.

"Of course, come in." She said, swallowing a lump as her brother entered the office. The two stared at each other, unsure of what to say for the last time they met they left on bad terms.

It was Mandora who broke the silence. "I came to give you my condolences for the loss of the members of your Community." He said, looking above her head, so as to avoid looking her in the eyes. A frown formed on Sala's face knowing that wasn't why he had appeared before her.

"..Thank you...Mandora." The hesitation in her voice was obvious to those in the room. Not like one could blame her, the tension was thick. Garol turned his gaze from the hesitant Sala to the lesser dragon just BARELY remaining composed.

Once again, no surprise given that Sala left her community for various reasons, though the drawback came at a young girl's childhood. Sandora was forced into the position of community leader; there was no overlooking it regardless if Sandora had chosen to be part of the position. It was natural Mandora would have some animosity.

Garol frowned before coughing lightly to try to disable the tense atmosphere; both sets of eyes went straight towards him causing his fur to stick up on end. "Mandora, I must say I'm impressed by your abilities down there. I see you've improved greatly."

"... Thank you Garol-san." The male salamander spoke. "I hadn't realised you were keeping a tab on my skills."

"Of course! It is a good idea to keep information on our allies wouldn't you agree?"

"So long as that info isn't used for dark purposes I do agree." The man coughed before turning his eyes before the ceiling above his sister. "I came to tell the leader of [Underwood] that the members of [Salamandra] are heading back. We feel we have done our duty for helping and should return to our home."

"Uhh... Of course." Sala said slightly surprised by her brother's words.

(Seems I won't be able to mend the bridge today.)

"That is all I have to say, I'll take my leave. Good to see you again, Garol-San... Sala." Mandora spoke before he began to leave.

A soft earthquake that spread throughout the building caused the group to stall in their goodbye's.

"What was that?!" Mandora exclaimed.

"...It can't be…"

"S-Sala-sama!" A guard from [One Horn] entered the room, his face broken out into a large grin. "The water tree! It is revitalized!"

Those words set a new palpitation to occur within Sala's chest. The dragon woman rushed to the window to observe the wondrous sight. Crystal clear water was now pouring from the tree that regained its green leaves and fresh brown bark. Cheers could be heard throughout the [Underwood], even with the location of Sala's office. To hear such a sound nearly brought tears to her eyes.

"He actually done it?!" Garol was stuck between disbelief and joy, no rather his statement contained both.

"The water tree was...but how…" Mandora's eyes widened in shock. Was it something the [No Name]s did? Was it the girl that could control time? No they specifically mentioned a male pronoun. This means it had to have been a male. But no one on the [No Name]s possessed such an ability? So was it someone from outside the community? Someone in [Underwood]?

He did not get the chance to ask as then the warning bells rang throughout the area.

The melodic sound sung with low notes as Sala's head snapped to attention. "What now?" She groaned. Her mind immediately thinking that it was a late reaction before noticing something with the tune.

(It's not us it's trying to warn...)

"[Salamandra!]" She suddenly shouted causing the two males to turn to her as a frown formed on her brother's face.

"What?" He asked, his eyes narrowing at her with suspicion.

"It's [Salamandra]...Someone is attacking right now!" She watched as a look of horror replaced his suspicion. "I'm near certain it's..."

"Them." Mandora growled as he turned back to the door. "...Sala, I suggest you stay out of this. Don't interfere with this battle when your own home is in danger." With his words said and done, the man rushed out of the office, ready to begin an assault on his foes.

"Mandora..." Sala spoke just as left, standing up to follow him. A furry hand shot across her barring her way. "Garol..."

"I suggest you take your brother's advice. [Underwood] is weakened completely and not ready for any kind of battle. I suspect this might have been their plan from the start."

"What? What do you mean?"

"Attacking [Salamandra] while one of their leaders and several of their group are away. It's a good military idea... They are far smarter than we gave them credit for."

"For a community believed to be insane they are rather smart."

"Nn, we really underestimated them."

"Really? They pulled a stunt like this when they first arrived remember?"

"Ah they attacked various communities plus us at once. Well they sent Makie to attack us."

"That was a stupid idea."

"Hey their stupidity got me free, so I can be thankful for that!"

"No, no we meant the other way."

"They dumped a parasite monkey on us-"

"I DO MY FAIR SHARE ON THE FARM THANK YOU VERY MUCH!"

"Oi chill monkey! My eardrums can only take so much abuse from your hollering."

Sala and Garol looked left and right, even outside of the office as they tried to find the source of the familiar voices that could only belong to one group plus their latest member.

"Ara? Are they still looking for us?"

"Hmm, hmm."

"Then let's make ourselves known!"

"Oi wait what the he-"

A large explosion caused both the beastman and the lesser dragon to turn around back towards the desk. The dust cleared to reveal a very familiar face.

"So what's this about [Salamandra] being attacked?" And just like that, the usual frivolous smile that belonged to Sakamaki Izayoi held a doubt meaning. Asuka and Yō simply let themselves in while the fourth child in their group could only cough.

"Yare, yare, you pull bullshit like this? Well...it's not the library so this time you are good."

"NO IT IS NOT ALRIGHT!" Black Rabbit's scream echoed as she swung her paper fan over the heads of the problem children whom left her behind at the top of the tree.

"So Sala, care to explain why the bells are going off?" Asuka ignored the angry rabbit.

"Ah, [Salamandra] is-"

"We heard that part, anything else?"

"It is definitely-."

"[Jabberwocky]." Yō finished.

"Yes and-"

"They attacked [Salamandra] while its representative was away. Not bad but Mandora is easy pickings. They should have attacked when Sandora was away."

"...Correct…"

"Anything new?"

"...We cannot send aide as we are now…" Sala's head lowered in shame. As much as she felt she should help her former community, her siblings out, it was just impossible as it currently was. She would not be able to repay the debt she owes to the [Salamandra] community just yet, and that fact pained her.

The [No Name]s knew instantly what she was asking for. There was no more need for words.

"Alright we're on it." Izayoi shrugged. "It was getting a little boring anyway." He declared as Black Rabbit looked at him as if he was insane.

"Wait, isn't this a little too quick?" Makie asked. "I mean us going now?"

"She is right." Asuka agreed. "We should get Jin, Pest and Leticia before we leave."

"That's not what she meant!" Black Rabbit roared at the three who merely tuned her out.

"We will see you soon, Sala-san." Yō said as they pushed a confused Makie and Black Rabbit out of the room. "Sorry, the festival was cancelled."

"HEY WAIT A MINUTE!"

"IZAYOI LET GO OF ME!" The two kidnapped girls called as they were dragged away, their calls for help being ignored. Sala sighed for the umpteenth time as she rubbed her temples.

"They'll be fine don't worry." Garol's supporting voice flowed through her ears yet did little to heal her fears.

"It's not them I'm worried about."

(Sandora, Mandora... Everyone, please be alright.)

Part 2

The Astral Gate was already set up and activated, having been used by the previous group to head back to the North. Jin, Percher and Leticia remained at the gates, knowing that their comrades would come anytime soon.

And naturally they were right as the problem children along with Black Rabbit and Makie, who was being carried on Izayoi's shoulder, arrived at the gate.

"What took so long?" Pest narrowed her eyes.

"What's the matter spotted loli? You that excited to go back to [Salamandra]?" Izayoi released a cheeky grin, knowing that he pressed on a sensitive spot for Percher. The purple haired demon lord simply turned away from that provocation.

"Take it [Salamandra] was involved with her defeat?" Makie raised her head from her position on Izayoi's shoulder.

"Correct." Asuka smiled. "We will explain the story after we deal with those ruffians who assaulted [Underwood]."

"The gate is ready for us. We must leave now if we intend to help!" Jin declared. Though his declaration fell on deaf ears, for the homunculus began pondering.

(Attacking a community while assaulting another...why does this feel like Deja vu…?)

Part 3

As they emerged through the gate, embers of crimson greeted them as flames lit up the city. Makie froze as the city she had heard so much about was in pure chaos. Community members lined the streets as they attempted to gain control of the situation and of the populace who ran from the heat.

"W-whoa..." She stuttered, awed by the destruction that encircled the area. Her eyes caught sight of shadowy beasts that swarmed overhead, as if looking for a certain target.

"So he's here again..." Jin frowned as he stood next to the homunculus.

"Gryphon, right?"

"And I thought he ran off after getting crushed by that alchemist." Izayoi grinned. "Guess he's stronger than he looks."

"You're one to talk, [No Names]." In front of them Mandora stood, his blade unsheathed as he stared at the darkened sky above. "I figured you would interfere again."

"So you waited for us? But what about your community?" Black Rabbit asked confused by his behaviour. From what little Makie knew of the man, she was certain he took his community very seriously and with that his duties.

"I only waited to see who she would send out to help. This may be our matter but we do require assistance once more." With that he rushed into battle, his blade cutting through pawns and soldiers as he headed to the centre of town.

"I'll never understand that guy." Pest grumbled from behind Asuka, not wanting to be seen by her former enemy.

"He's just doing what he thinks is best." Jin defended the lesser dragon.

"Alright!" Izayoi's declaration caused most of the group's hearts to jump. "We will push the attackers into the center and get them at once. Since we don't know how many there are we need to each cover a different part of the city. I will be the first to enter the city! Kasukabe will follow but she will enter from the east side. Pest and Leticia will cover the west, Rich Girl and Monkey will take the South Side."

"Not even going to bother right now, so I can assume we are at the north side where you will attack?"

"Bingo!" And with that Izayoi pushed down on the ground, causing the plateau to crack and cave in on itself due to the force of Izayoi's jump. The boy had charged head first into the battlefield within the glass city.

And naturally found himself pushed back onto the cliff overlooking the city.

"What?" They questioned as Leticia stepped forward. Pushing her hand towards the city, what could only be described as a translucent barrier bubbled around the area keeping her out. "Black Rabbit?" The vampire questioned as said girl shut her eyes.

Her ears twitched as they focused on the battle below them. "Black Rabbit may have found a problem."

"And that is?" Izayoi asked as he got to his feet. He dusted himself off as he frowned in contemplation. "We know it's a barrier so it's keeping everyone out?"

"Anyone who is not a member of [Salamandra] or [Jabberwocky] are unable to enter the city. Black Rabbit needs more time to figure the rest out."

"Hahaha, hey there dead meat! Nice to see you again!" Eyes shot up as a black platform floated above their eyes, just out of reach on the other side of the barricade. "Remember me?!"

"... No we can't see you." Pest said as she stared dully at the shadows.

"... Crap." A figure emerged from the darkness as a familiar scent of blood filled the air. "I left the lid on... Well, Gryphon's back morsels!" The dark orange haired man smiled widely as his bone toothpick swirled around his mouth.

"Wait who are you?" Makie asked as she stared confused at the man. "I mean I assume you're an idiot."

"Heh, still a smart mouth huh Alice? Always made me eat my own words. Damn they were disgusting. But you guys are there and I'm here. I finally beat you, you damn girl." The birdbrain laughed as the others grumbled in annoyance. "Heh and just to prove it, they gave me this!"

Before him, fluttering down from the sky was a black Geass scroll.

"Oh not another one!" Makie groaned in annoyance.

TWEEDLE DEE AND TWEEDLE DUM

Game Masters: Tweedledee and Tweedledum

List of Participants: All members of [Jabberwocky] and [Salamandra], past and present.

Details:

*The Participants are not allowed to leave the stage area

*Players are to battle whomever they meet eye contact with

*Gryphon will circle the area watching the battles

*No battles are to be conducted in an area where Gryphon is

*You can only fight for five minute

*The winner is allowed passage free

*The loser is to remain trapped in a mirror

*If undecided then both participants are trapped in a mirror

Punishment:

*Should the Host Master lose they are to forfeit their gifts and serve the participating community

Participant Winning Conditions:

*Defeat the host masters

*Arrive at the designated area

Host Winning Conditions:

*Everyone is trapped in the mirror

*The participants surrender

Oath: Participating Community in the Gift Game, swear upon your glory and flag to respect the above stated content.

[Jabberwocky Seal]

"I….Black Rabbit can hardly believe it…."

"What's wrong?" Asuka asked.

"The game is straightforward Rich Girl. It tells you everything you need to know and doesn't bother to hide anything."

"...Wait…." You had caught on.

"Hey...wait….Black Rabbit can only call on her [Trial Jurisdiction] if the game is ambiguous?!" Makie's statement caused the ears of the rabbit to drop over. As the [Judge Master] Black Rabbit's duty was to make sure a Gift Game was legal and fair. If there were no contradictions or rules that seemed unfair, then she would not be able to utilize her power.

As it stands, the game was so straightforward that it even mentioned the proper way to win. Unlike the last Demon Lord Gift Game...Black Rabbit could not use her power to call the negotiations.

"Told you I won this time, morsels!" Gryphon called out. "Alice 20, [No Names] 1, Me, 1. Catching up idiots!"

"Now I'm glad I don't remember him that well." Makie grumbled.

"Well, if he's annoying you just hit him." Izayoi said getting looks from everyone. "Oh you haven't noticed? All members of [Jabberwocky] and [Salamandra], past and present." He recited.

"Of course." Jin said realising what the elder boy meant. "We can't get there but Makie can."

"Wait... You guys can't do that!" Gryphon shouted. "That's cheating besides, she can't fight me. It's against the rules like adding soy sauce to apples. Bad mix."

"Disregarding what the idiot said." Makie mumbled, sick of the words flowing from Gryphon's mouth. "Even if I got in, then what? Go up to the leaders and ask to let you guys in?"

"Yes." The problem children responded as one, dumbfounding the silver haired girl.

"...aaaaaaAAAaah! That is so freakin tedious!" Summoning the green scythe she was known for, the girl poured power into her legs.

"Hey wait you can just-"

BAM!

Makie kicked the shadow bird with all her strength, causing the beast to crash into the city below, destroying a few houses. In all honesty the way he bounced from house to house, it would be appropriate to add pinball noises as he went.

Though with that kick, Makie was able to use the bird as a trampoline to propel herself further into the battlefield.

Part 4

Soldiers marched through the town, a rhythmic beat echoed through the ground, almost strong enough to cause quakes. But for those forced to fight in the secluded areas it was nothing more than a beat to fight alongside with.

But just like how the ones beating the drums were to stop, so did the marching that as a symbolic tone of the city's current state.

Except it was cut off in seconds.

The cards were effortlessly sliced in half. However, neither parts morphed into new cards. Rather they were burned away. A striking green fire that was unnatural caused the card soldiers to become cinders the moment contact was made.

Makie twirled the pole around, the green scythe releasing small green embers that hit the ground ever so often, vanishing at the touch of the ground. The girl continued onward, trying to remain as silent as possible while avoiding the many soldiers of both communities running amok.

(This scythe...normally the pull would be at the tip of the blade. Fighting like this should be impossible. And yet...it feels like the weight is within the pole itself...like there is no weight to the blade and yet it's cutting through everything. How is that even possible?)

The legend of Iaglima was split into two forms.

-The first was of a weapon used by the Sumerian God Ningirsu. A green blade that judged the wicked and could rend souls alongside its twin, a red blade that could pierce the skin.

-The second was of the God, Ig-alima. One of two sons that were fathered by Ningrisu and Baba. Ig-alima was in charge of deeming whom was worthy to see his father. The stories went that he would allow the good to pass, but those who were wicked were held back or killed.

The legends and info were few, but the fact was Ig-alima was tied to Baba, Tutelary Goddess of the city of Lagash, Goddess of Healing as well as a Mother Goddess, and Ningrisu, a Sumero-Babylonian God of Rain, Irrigation, and Fertility.

Each was symbols of healing and agriculture, and yet both were often identified to those that were associated to war and the underworld.

And yet the symbolic irony in the name of that one god's name being attached to a scythe. Originally a farming tool before being identified as a weapon to be held in the hands of Death.

(Oh the irony is soooo thick...a dead girl with the power to manipulate time, brought back to life to commit evil deeds, and now attempts to judge the wicked while working on a farm most of the time. Really now...I'm starting to wonder if this was all planned out at some point…)

That one thought caused the girl to stop.

Planned out?

Red eyes glanced down at the golden dial the ticked away.

(A scythe...was also used by Chronos…)

A statue of marble stood out in her mind. Her trip to Germany and seeing the sleeping Chronos resting atop the grave of a certain merchant passed through her mind. The stone figure made an impression on the girl. Enough to make her believe the reason for her Gift was located there. But alas her Father stopped her from doing anything that could be considered disrespectful to the grave.

(...of all the memories…Dammit what am I doing...I need to get going...)

Shaking her head as a means to rid herself of the thoughts that could be discussed later, the girl began running once more.

"You know, running around like a headless chook is usually a bad sign." A familiar voice whispered in Makie's ears causing her to pause. Looking over her shoulder, a cat boy sat on a nearby roof, his damnable grin still on his face. "Heyo!"

"Puss, haven't seen you in a while." Makie frowned before turning to continue her job. "For you to be here..."

"Hey, it might have felt like a year but I'm on your side." Puss kicked his legs, his purple ears twitching in amusement. "I can be anywhere I want... Well kind of. I sort of snuck in and no one noticed me."

"Well not much to notice really." She replied hiding her smile.

"Oh so mean... Hey uh... You might want to be careful; there are some really nasty looking folks like this evil girl. She looks really mean, hope you have a good plan for her... Maybe you'll come up with it in time?" Makie's head whipped around as the cat waved innocently before his green eyes widened in horror as flames flew towards him. From above two girls fought for dominance, one wearing a lolita outfit, the other being a salamander.

"Uh oh... See ya!" A nervous chuckle escaped the cat before he ran for his life, fear filling his face as he escaped.

"Hey where are you going?" Makie asked before she leapt backwards to avoid another blast of flames, this one aiming right for her. The girl of flames body was obviously tensed as the other chuckled amused by the circumstances.

"Another member?" Sandora asked as she kept one eye on her opponent and the other on Makie.

"Uh-hey I am NOT with the loony cast of Wonderland-"

"You are lying! Only members of [Salamandra] and [Jabberwocky] are of this game! If you are not of [Salamandra] then you are obviously with the enemy!" The fire that developed in the child's hands caused the white haired girl to click her tongue.

"Okay yeah so I was a [Jabberwocky] member but-" A fireball incinerated the area at which Makie stood. If it wasn't for her timely jump there was no doubt in the girl's mind she would have, once again, suffered second degree burning.

(Okay she didn't understand past tense...Dammit maybe I should have said I was with the [No Names]? Yeah right those flames looked ready to kill me regardless of what I said!)

Dodging another blast of flames the homunculus pulled out her Gift Card. That sunset colored light engulfed her hands before boring the all too familiar green scythe.

The moment that scythe materialized, the flames vanished.

"It...can't be…" The voice of the girl controlling flames lowered to that of a whisper. Even so it was enough to intrigue Makie. The flames were gone?

That meant the girl was calming down right?

"Are you...by chance the girl Jin talked about?"

"Eh?" At that moment Makie recalled it. The time in which the core members of the [No Name]s traveled to [Salamandra].

"AH! Yeah yeah! I was the girl who attacked [Salamandra]-no wait! Shit! I-I'm Alice, or real name Makie! Kobayashi Makie! Newest member of the [No Name]s!" The otherwise normally confident Makie broke into a girl struggling to keep herself composed. Her own works broke her facade, and all Makie could do was struggle to keep the pieces in check.

This act left Sandora in awe, not because of the reveal, but because of the silliness of the girl's response.

"...I see. I apologise." Sandora replied before she was knocked to the ground by the ignored girl.

"Ahh naughty, naughty. Turning your back on someone is rude. Weren't you Floor Masters ever taught manners?" The black haired girl in monochrome checkerboard dress shook her finger as if scolding someone.

"The girl from [Underwood]..." Makie whispered as she stepped in front of Sandora's body. "The Geass Scroll mentioned the Tweedles so, which one are you?"

"Oh me? I'm Hatter." She replied with a coy smile

"Liar!"

"No fun and such a bully. You might make me cry." Her voice went up in pitch as she turned her back on the homunculus, so her tears were not seen.

"Uh... Sorry?" Makie said, unsure of what was going on.

"That's ok!" She beamed turning around, a smile back on her face. "I feel much better now."

(This girl is even more insane than Dodo. Is that even remotely possible?)

"So... Guess because you're here you want to rejoin us?" The girl exclaimed causing a flat look to be sent her way. "Yeah I guessed not. Hmm, then what do you want... A cake?"

"I'm not here to play games with you."

"Really then why are you in Little Garden then?" Makie shook with annoyance as she tried to resist the temptation of cutting her opponent's head off.

"Shut up!" She shouted having enough of the madness happening around her. "Tell me who you are, and on that note who that cat I keep seeing is and allow [No Name] entry into the game."

"In order, I already told you, what cat and maybe. You didn't say the magic words." As the girl's grin grew, Makie took a deep breath in as she tried to calm herself. Whichever twin this was just wanted her to make mistakes, she knew that. But if she didn't know about the cat who called himself Puss that kept showing up... Did that mean she was going crazy?

(Why am I even thinking about this now? I have to find a way to let everyone else in.)

"But I have to say I am impressed. I would have thought the game would have activated. Did you change the rules Alice?"

"Hardly. I simply followed a loophole."

"Loophole?" The black dressed girl blinked and tilted her head.

"Both sides need to look at each other in the eye. Meaning so long as I avert my gaze I won't have to fight anyone."

"BAH! Cheater!"

"Nyeh!" Makie responded by sticking out her tongue at the little girl.

"Neyh!" As such the Tweedle in turn stuck her own tongue out at the girl.

"Bring in the [No Name]s to the game or I force you!"

"How miss bossy-pants monkey?!"

"...

….

…..

One, don't wear pants. Two, LIKE THIS!" Pulling out Igalima the girl teleported. The tweedle felt a shiver down her spine and ducked. She barely avoided the green scythe aimed for her neck.

"EEEEEEEK!" The tweedle thus took off.

"GET BACK HERE!" And thus Makie jumped rooftops following the startled girl.

Part 5

"You know...Makie is sure taking a while…" Izayoi stated in a bored tone, having laid on his back waiting for the aforementioned girl.

"I agree, far longer than she should." Asuka crossed her arms while remain standing.

"Mhmm." Yō nodded as she sat on the ground.

"Well she IS fighting all by herself…" Black Rabbit so calmly stated with a smile on her face.

"That monkey is no doubt goofing off."

"Playing around during such a crisis? How terrible of her!" Asuka remarked.

"Mhmm." Yō nodded.

"You know...she hasn't done any actual work since she first showed up."

"Oh so working on the farm, helping out with the house chores and organizing the library isn't helpful."

"When you compare the things she has done to what we have done not really."

"I agree."

"Second."

"You three have no RIGHT TO COMPARE YOURSELF TO ANYONE!"

Down came the paper fan on the heads of three problem children.

"But then again…" Their words repeated in her mind. In truth, Makie hasn't participated in any other kind of games besides the ones with [Jabberwocky] involved.

Perhaps she should be given a chance to prove herself...

"GET BACK HERE YOU BRAT!"

"AHHH NO STAY AWAY!"

The screams of a child filled the air as the [No Names] lifted their heads to watch as their newest member chased a young girl around while trying to slice her head off.

"See, told you goofing off." Izayoi mused as he watched his friend swing wildly, missing by inches as the child screamed in terror.

"Such a horrible person, she really shouldn't be allowed near children." Asuka agreed

"Mhmm." Yō nodded with her friends as Black Rabbit covered her face in shame.

(If she acted like this around children, maybe she shouldn't be in Gift Games…)

"Makie... Why are you trying to hurt the girl?" Jin asked confused by her actions.

"SHE PISSED ME OFF!" Makie screeched causing Jin to hide behind Leticia in fear of the upset homunculus.

"You don't kill children if they are being annoying!" Black Rabbit shouted as her hair turned pink in annoyance. Why couldn't she have a normal person around?

"She is a [Demon Lord] right so she is fair game to kill!"

"Is she the Demon Lord?"

"She came RIGHT OUT AND SAID IT!"

"Not fair that red haired girl tricked me!" The Tweedle said, tears forming at the corners of her eyes. "They are so mean and nasty. Such horrible people!" She wailed.

"Oh come here." Black Rabbit whispered, her heart going out to the child. As the girl approached, Black Rabbit opened her arms out to give the girl a hug. Wishing seconds she was pushed up against the barrier, her arms phasing through it as the Demon Lord pulled on her arms. "Ow!"

"Hehe~ So easy to trick. I can see why you're the dumb one."

"Black Rabbit isn't dumb!"

"Let go of her!" Yō shouted before she was knocked away by dark shadows. A certain grinning Gryphon emerged from the darkness as he waved kindly at the girl.

"Hey their pot stickers, how ya doing?" The black dressed girl turned to him with a big frown on her face.

"Gryphon! You're ruining my moment!" She shouted.

"Sorry Dee, thought you needed help stirring the soup."

"Don't give out my name!" The revealed Tweedledee shouted again as she grabbed her minion and began to strangle him. "Stupid bird!"

"Gah... Wait... Where's... The... Rabbit?" She paled as his broken words registered in her mind. Slowly turning behind her, the worst members of the [No Names] waved innocently at her as the escaped rabbit sighed in relief.

"So Tweedledee, where's the Dum one?" Makie asked innocently as the [Jabberwocky] girl went back to throttling her minion.

"Gryphon, this is all your fault!" She blamed before letting go of his neck and kicking him in the shin. "Guess that plan failed, stupid time powers. It's cheating!"

"Did you have to kick me?" Gryphon asked getting another shoe to the shin for his troubles.

"Quiet, the important people are talking. Ok, so you got my identity, now what to do?"

"Why not let us play with you for a bit?" The blond haired boy offered. "We can provide much more entertainment than most of the people in the community you are facing."

"True you could BUUUUUT you are waaaay to OP and no fun to play with! Even Alice is no fun with her cheater power!"

"I wonder whose fault THAT is?!"

"What, you don't like being alive?"

"That is about the ONLY thing I am grateful for, but not enough to keep being part of your false wonderland."

"Hmm..." The little girl mused to herself. "Well... Alright. Then let's play. Everyone!" She suddenly shouted as if addressing all members of [Jabberwocky]. "Please initiate plan: Checkmate!"

Bright red lights began to scatter within the walls of Kouen City, almost decorating the town like a Christmas tree. The act left the communities inside and out in disarray as no one could explain what was happening. The lights came from the scattered pawns within the city. Several salamander soldiers were forced to stop their fights, watching in horror as the areas where they fought closed in on them. Within seconds, millions of bright red boxes began to form around the many community members. And just like that, the boxes had vanished.

The [No Name]s were left speechless. They could not hear a single scream, a cry, nothing.

There was nothing but endless silence within the city.

"Did... Did they just defeat all of [Salamandra] in one move?" Jin asked, horror forming into his eyes. "That's..."

"N-No, not possible!" Asuka quickly retorted, but the wavering in her voice countered the self-assured tone in her voice.

"Nnn...There has to be more to it than that." Yō bit her lip. She was desperately trying to come up with a logical way to explain what had transcribed.

"Hey! What the heck just happened?!" It was entirely on reflex, but the words Makie screamed out was a question everyone wanted answers to.

"Why are you unhappy Alice? You just won the game for us. And now you can play with your new friends as their new pawn." A small smile formed on her face as Makie growled. "Now, this is the part where you say you aren't a pawn but let's skip that. We have a game to play."

Tweedledee sung as she performed a small pirouette, spinning away from an upset Makie. "Now, what game... How about... We have all our friends decide... Yes that sounds fair."

"A simple battle royale. No one else can participate unless they are members of the community [Jabberwocky] or [No Name]. The only rule being that and the inclusion of the Judge Master as a referee to watch the battles." Izayoi conveyed his idea to the floating Demon Lord, who simply nodded her head.

"What other rules did you have in mind?"

"No kidnapping or murder of any of the individuals present within the game area Koen City."

"Booo! That sucks! There better be a good prize for that!"

A prize huh? To be honest Izayoi never had one in mind. If they the [No Name]s won, then it would be the complete subjugation of the community [Jabberwocky]. There was no question on who would win to be honest.

Izayoi looked back at Makie. The girl hadn't said a word since then, but it was obvious she wanted to fight.

And yet that was the one thing he wanted to deny her….the chance to fight.

"If we lose... You guys regain Makie Kobayashi." Eyes went to him in horror at his decision.

"What!?" Makie shouted, taking a step back. Rage flew into her body as she glared at her old friend. What gave him the right to make such a choice, she may be the only thing [Jabberwocky] wanted but she was not an item...

Did she mean less to him then a Gift?

"Deal!" Dee shouted, overjoyed by their choice in prize. "Oh and if we lose?"

"The Community known as [Jabberwocky] can no longer exist in any way, shape or form." At this, Gryphon's eyes widened. If they lost... Where would he go? He might be a monster and a hungry one at that but it was his home where the kid and doctor where. He would never admit it but... They were his only friends he really had, ever. He would not lose them.

Before he could speak, Tweedledee spoke. "Done! [Jabberwocky] will vanish if the [No Names] win.

"Izayoi, a word..." Makie growled wanting nothing more but to strangle the boy. The rest of the community agreed with her dislike of the negotiations. Pest's glare was the more dangerous of them all. Her silent fury caused black winds to rise from her hands.

"Boss, can we talk about this..." Gryphon tried to say before taking a step back at his own bosses glare. He's eyes looked over at the angry [No Names] before mouthing 'sorry' to them with a shrug. They might be delicious -especially the rabbit- but he understood their rage.

Before the two negotiators, a black scroll formed from nowhere unrolling itself as its contents emerged.

A BLACK TEA PARTY

Game Masters: Tweedledee and Tweedledum

List of Participants: All members of [Jabberwocky] and [No Names]

Details:

*Participants are not allowed to leave the stage area.

*Players are to face whoever they meet eye contact with

*Judge Master Black Rabbit is unable to participate and must survey all battles

*Battles can be more than one player if multiple players make eye contact

*If defeated, the player will be unable to participate in any more battles.

*Kidnapping or Murder will instantly disqualify whatever side committed the deed

Punishment:

*Should the Host Master lose, Community [Jabberwocky] must disband immediately.

*Should Community [No Names] lose, member Makie Kobayashi must join Community [Jabberwocky]

Participant Winning Conditions:

*Defeat the Host Masters

Host Winning Conditions:

*Defeat of Participants

Oath: Participating Community in the Gift Game, swear upon your glory and flag to respect the above stated content.

[Jabberwocky Seal]

"The Gift Game is acceptable." Black Rabbit declared.

"Honestly…" Asuka muttered. "This must be the strangest Demon Lord community to ever exist. To think they would negotiate with us like this when they could simply just force us into the game…"

"..Maybe it's all part of a plan." Yō whispered to Asuka. In all honesty everyone shared the scarlet dress girl's feelings. There was something about this that did not add up or make sense.

"Alrighty then!" Tweedledee smiled as the black dressed girl clapped her hands together. "And with that-"

"Everyone to the center!" Izayoi yelled, his mind instantly recognising what was happening. Yō and Asuka were the first to fall as a red wall surrounded the pair. Within seconds, they were contained within a box. As the two pounded on one of the sides, their bodies vanished as if they had never existed.

"Change of plans, everyone partner up with someone!" Makie shouted, disregarding Izayoi's original orders as she rushed towards her best friend. Pest and Leticia grabbed hold of Jin's shoulders as they vanished within an appearing cube. Black Rabbit watched in growing horror as she too disappeared leaving the old friends to face their opponents.

"Izayoi, I got this!" Makie grinned as she raised Igalima, preparing to slice through Gryphon who jumped towards her, his shadowy peryton wings forming on his back. As the two prepared to strike at each other, a sudden blow knocked Makie away.

"Gah!" Makie groaned as she held her stomach before opening her eyes. "What?"

Her eyes widened as Gryphon floated above in the same position, his own eyes shocked as Tweedledee looked amused.

Standing there with his hand outstretched into a fist was Izayoi, his face neutral as he stared at her.

"Izayoi?" She whispered confused as the trio disappeared within another box. Her mind shuffled through what had occurred. Why had Izayoi struck her? Was she really less than a gift to him?

"Alice, such a lovely day to see you again!" A familiar voice called out behind her. "Come! Join me for some tea!" Turning her head slowly, Makie scowled as the insane form of Hatter with his trademark lemon yellow hat smiled at her. In his hands was an enormous teapot which he waved in amusement. "Come now Alice, have some tea with an old friend."

"Oh you are SO the last person I wanted to see…." Makie's grip on Igalima tightened, visibly so as the weapon shook due to the pressure she had in her right hand.

"Well bollocks. When you are like that you can get really no fun to play with." The hatter hunched over.

"Well excuse me for not being in the mood!" Makie stuck out her tongue like a child and crossed her arms in a huff. Right now she was more focused on trying to figure out why the boy would injure her like that? To get her out of the way? Did he have an idea of what to do and believed she could figure it out? Was Izayoi planning a way to destroy the community in one fell swoop?

No even for him that would be impossible. The representatives of Wonderland were crafty due to them thinking outside the box and going for the most literal translation of words as possible.

"Alright...we made eye contact…" Makie sighed heavily and as loudly as possible to portray her annoyance. "And as much as I wanna not fight you I don't have much of a choice. I'm ending this quickly."

"Huzzah! Our new game is about to begin... Let's play..." From the ground below, a long table covered in a white table cloth emerged. Chairs of all kind and make formed from nowhere as cakes, tarts and other sweets fell from the sky. Placing the large teapot on the table, Hatter swiped with a spoon causing it to explode. Hundreds of cups and saucers burst from the smoke as smaller teapots took the large new place. Making himself comfortable in a guards pink armchair, He waved innocently at the confused homunculus. "We are having a tea party Alice and luckily for you, there is so much room to be had!"

Before Makie had time to react, a spoon collided with her forehead. The second Igalima clatter with the ground, a antique dining chair grabbed Makie and wrapped its front legs against her own. Struggling against her binds, Makie reached for her watch but was far too slow. Stools leaped from their resting place and dragged her arms down preventing her from doing anything but sit.

"That's much better isn't it Alice? Comfortable? I hope so. Now..." Hatter asked as his grin turned dark, the rim of his hat shadowing his eyes. "One lump or two?" He asked holding up the sugar bowl.

"Dammit Hatter take no for a goddamn answer!" The girl struggled, trying her best to break free. Ever since she met the Hatter, she felt something inside her, a sickening feeling that told her to stay as far away from him. Her luck that the person her heart screamed to ignore would come searching for her.

Part 6

"Oof! Uuuu...if they were going to teleport us they could have done so a bit more gently…."

"Mmm…"

Asuka and Yō both fell on to the ground in rather unladylike fashions. Though the girls were able to stand up rather quickly despite their groans. Asuka was the first to look around. Apparently they had been transported near the cave where the arts exhibit for the [Rise of the Fire Dragon Festival] was conducted. Nostalgia flooded her heart, recalling the events that took place inside and under the exhibit. The fairies that formed the community [Rattenfanger], Asuka could honestly say she missed them.

"Everything okay Asuka?" Yō tilted her head.

"Ah, yes. Just simple nostalgia."

"I see…" Yō looked left and right, then to the sky. "So if we are here...we need to move to the center right?"

"That is what Izayoi decided upon."

As Makie left to locate the Host Masters, Izayoi had given everyone explicit and simple orders. Should they become part of the game and separated, converge to the middle of the city and regroup.

"So to the centre from here?"

"Of course." Before they could take a step away from the cave, the ground began to shake. They watched in awe as large towers sprouted from the ground, their build rotating as if they were large drills. As the buildings fully emerged, doors opened up as pawns and card soldiers rushed out.

"More of them?" Yō mumbled as she and Asuka stood side by side, their Gifts ready to go at a moment's notice.

"Halt!" A woman's voice called out. "The next one to make a move loses their head!" Standing on the tip of one of the towers was a woman dressed in red. A long dress coloured in red and blacks covered her form. Hearts and chess pieces were inscribed on the fabric as long gloves of ebony went up to her rounded shoulders. On her head was a large rounded crown-like hat. Black lace covered the sides as the bottom side of the sphere was of crimson and the top was of pure white. At the very top, it was pointed with a small sphere inside as if it was the top of a queen chess piece.

The Warriors bowed to their queen as more members rushed out and fit together, standing on one another to change into a large staircase. "So you are the brats ruining our land?" As she got closer, the girls noticed her eyes were of red as black hair was tucked neatly away behind her hat. A small scar that looked as if a blade sliced through it sat on her right cheek. "Tell me why I shouldn't order the removal of your heads?"

"..."

"Oh? Are you so stunned to not dare speak a word you poor, demented dogs?"

"..."

Asuka and Yō couldn't say a word. Let's clarify something. It was not because of the threat delivered from the woman.

But rather, what stopped them from saying anything...was the abnormally large hat that sat on her head.

"..."

"..."

"...Asuka?"

"Yes?"

"I want to poke it."

"Do not poke it something might come out…..actually go ahead and poke it. We can capture it and give it to Black Rabbit as a present"

"Good idea!"

"Oi brats! Are you listening to me!?"

"Maybe it could be a dragon?"

"No that is unlikely. A dragon wouldn't come out of her. How about a poodle?"

"You know what a poodle is Asuka?"

"I was sheltered, that doesn't mean I do not know somethings."

"Hey!"

"Oh what if it's a plant of some sorts?"

"Ara, with how big that hat is perhaps it is! If our luck is good it would be a rabbit eater!"

"Mhm! Then it is decided." Yō clenched her fist in determination.

"Yes! That rabbit eater growing out of her head will be ours!"

"There is NO such thing as a rabbit eater, otherwise we would have had it eaten our rabbit! Frankly why are you girls so interested in my hat?! It's simply a normal size! Actually are you brats even listening to me?!"

"I am going to poke it!" Yō's eyes shined with an intense determination, one that actually sent shivers up the woman's spine.

"Don't you dare touch my precious hat you imbecilic braaaaaaaaaaatsss!"

"Oh my really such a loud bark from a red clad dog." Asuka placed her gloved hand on her lips, hiding a smirk.

"Isn't this where the "Pot calling the kettle black" is used?!" The woman screeched. "Do you not know who I am?"

"The Red Queen?" Yō answered, getting a prideful smile in response.

"Correct, I am she, the queen of all. The one and future ruler of everything!"

"And she with the ridiculously large hat." Asuka muttered, shaking her head in annoyance.

"My hat is normal!"

"Wait..." Yō spoke up, realising something. "I thought the Red Queen had a colder anger then this."

"So you noticed." Another prideful smile grew on the Red Queen's face as she snapped her fingers. Within seconds, her staircase collapsed and reformed itself as a majestic throne. It charged forward and caught the queen just as she went to sit down. "All ways are my way and my way is everything. If I desired to be a combination of both queens then I should be allowed correct? My desires are all that matter and thus, I can be whatever I desire in my eternal rule."

"Did you get any of that?" Asuka asked her friend who shrugged her shoulders. "I thought so. She makes even less sense then Dodo."

"Do not compare me to that useless bird! I am far greater than she."

"Then why do you have a scar?" Yō innocently asked. That question caused the woman to freeze, anger vanishing as her mouth refused to close. "Miss..."

A sudden twitch of her eye rattled her body as fire deep within her heart reignited itself. Her hands clenched down on the chair as the silent screams of her men refused to echo. "How dare you..." She whispered. "How dare you bring that up."

The girls took two steps back as her soldiers hid their faces in fear of the boiling anger their queen had.

"SERVANTS! PREPARE THE PIECES! I'LL TEACH THESE BRATS HOW THEY SHOULD NEVER INSULT A WOMAN'S ETERNAL BEAUTY!"

If there was one thing the girls could agree on before the fight, it was that Red Queen was just as crazy as Dodo and it was their luck that would cause the crazy ones to follow them.

Part 7

"...Ica... Tecia..." Words zoned in and out of the vampire's mind as she awoke from the darkness. Her vision blurred as a green shrub called to her, asking if she was alright.

Within seconds, the bush changed into Jin.

"Leticia? Are you alright?" He asked as he helped her up. The girl stumbled back slightly as if her balance was off. "You took a nasty fall."

"Jin. I'm alright." She said with a small smile before frowning as their location became clear. Other than the area where they stood, the rest of the alley way was covered in a thick blue smoke. Even with her vision, Leticia was unable to pierce through it. "Where are we?"

"One of the alleyways." With a small turn, Leticia watched as Pest slowly walked up to the pair. "I'm not sure where in regards to the centre." She shrugged before turning back to the smoke. "It's too thick to be natural though."

"A Gift." The vampire summarized as she put her hand through the smog. It felt heavy from what she could tell, as if walking through it could cause one to collapse within seconds. "Maybe stronger than your winds."

"You must be joking. If I were to unleash my powers at full I could kill everyone!" Percher felt mildly annoyed at Leticia's statement.

"With the right amount of density even oxygen can be poisonous."

An elderly voice whispered throughout the smoke. As the trio spun around, the voice continued. "But even then, one must keep their temper even if one is wrong."

Pest's frown deepened as she tried to locate where the voice had come from. "Who are you?"

"I believe that is my question." The voice said again. "Who are you?" It asked putting emphasis on its Os.

"Smoke, who are you..." Jin whispered before a lightbulb went off. "Caterpillar? Is that you?" A mirthful chuckle emerged from the left as the smoke cleared slightly. Sitting on a foggy red mushroom was a small dark blue caterpillar. In its hands was a hookah of similar size and colour.

"You are the first to see me. I'm slightly impressed. Perhaps I gave far too many clues..." He spoke. In his dark eyes, the group could see that he was tired as they drooped with age. Who knew how long he had been around for.

(Is it the real one?) Leticia asked herself. (All of the others we've seen have been more human like... So what does this mean?)

"Rather short isn't he?" Pest mumbled getting a fierce glare in return.

"There is nothing wrong with being three inches!" He shouted, his face turning red in annoyance. "I was willing to let you go as the boy learned of me but my mind has been changed."

"Oh? How do you intend to stop us woolly bear? From where I am standing it will be quite a challenge."

"Indeed. Then let's change the area where you are standing." The moment those words left the Caterpillar's mouth, the former Demon Lord felt sick to her stomach. It was like the world was turning, no, more like the world was growing around it. Buildings became taller, streets grew longer, it was a sight that not only bothered Pest but that of Leticia and Jin. Neither knew what was occurring until it finally ended.

"W-What the heck?!" Pest looked left and right, trying to figure out how the buildings and streets changed. But the only thing that did change was the height and length of the former and latter.

"Now then-" Pest turned towards the Caterpillar, and paled. The pygmy she had insulted was now the same height as her. "Let us proceed with my game. A series of riddles. I expect you to figure them out lest you want to remain in this form forever."

"Hey, turn her back." Jin called, not happy that his friend had shrunk. Taking a look towards him, Caterpillar frowned. Within seconds, the same sickness affected the child's stomach as he too began to shrink.

"I apologize child, you aren't that bad in these eyes but I prefer my opponents to be my own size." The larvae turned his head to the vampire as she became the same size as the others. "If we were all different sizes, who would have the advantage?"

"The ones who are larger." Leticia said, frowning but could not refute his logic. "I apologize but that actually seems logical. It seems unlike you."

"Why?"

"Well you are a member of [Jabberocky]."

"And that means nothing." Caterpillar said as he took a smoke from his hookah. "Hints change and not all is what it seems. Something you should be aware of already. Now, shall we begin?"

Part 8

"The colosseum." Izayoi muttered as slowly walked around the arena. Opposite him was Gryphon, his skin rippling in anticipation, ready to change into his beast form in an instant. "Haven't actually fought here yet, you?"

"Course not, place ain't suitable for me. Not fit for any cook when he's preparing his next dish." The peryton complained. "So bland."

"You're bland! Look out below!" A certain voice called from above. Looking above, a child slammed into Gryphon knocking them both down. "Oh it's the really boring one."

Sitting atop the cannibal's head was Dodo, her form covered in bandages. "Why are you here? I was promised a surprise!" She grumbled.

"... Ff..."

"Hmm?"

"Get off brat!" Gryphon shouted, launching the kid into the air as he suddenly got up. "What are you doing here, skin and bones?"

"Stupid Shade, mean kids told me to come here." Dodo pouted. "Mocky's coming too. He said to tell you that you're in trouble."

"What did I do!?"

"You said the blue bread was good!"

"I didn't actually expect you to try it or believe me!"

"I'm a kid, course I would believe you." Dodo said playing the innocent card. "But, you were right on the vegetables though."

"Yeah, so he has no right to complain. Not our fault they are horrible."

"He did give me this though." Dodo smiled as she pulled out two lollipops. "He said not to give you one... But... Here you go."

"Aw thanks kid!" The monster said snatching one out of her hands. "Oh grape."

"Lame, I only got orange!"

"Sucks to be you!"

"Stupid bird!"

"You're the bird!"

"You know, if you were going to do a comedy act you could have told me." Izayoi shrugged, receiving glares for his comment. "So should we get started?"

The two birdbrains shared a look before glaring at the blonde, lollipop sticks poking out of their mouths. "Let's get him Skin and Bones!" Gryphon shouted as he and his sidekick called upon their wings.

"Right, Shade. We'll beat him before Mocky gets here!" With a swift leap, the two charged forward hoping to eliminate their opponent quickly. Evading the duo, Izayoi kept his hands in his pockets as he jumped back. "Hold still!"

"Mm... No." The blonde said as he hopped forward, his knee colliding with Gryphon's stomach causing him to topple over. As he fell, his arm struck Dodo by accident causing her to join her comrade on the ground. "I don't think you're doing that right. Aren't you supposed to work together?"

"Shut up!" The pair shouted as they picked themselves up. "Dodo, time to serve this brat up." Gryphon growled as his form rippled once again.

"Alright! I'll start the fire!" She cheered as flames burned to life in her palms.

"Pause! Game time pause!"

"Whaaaa!?" Dodo practically whined as she looked up. Whatever annoyance she had vanished, and was instantly replaced by fear. The white Tweedle and the Black Tweedle hovered in mid air, giggling at the sight before them.

"So Dee and Dum decided to join us huh?" Izayoi smirked.

"Yep yep! This battle looks much more interesting!~" The white haired Tweedledum smiled.

"And we get to see a really good battle!" Tweedledee's black haired swayed as she moved her head left and right.

""Then stick around and watch me kick your comrades asses!"

"...? Huh? Comrades?"

"Eh?" Izayoi raised an eyebrow. Tweedledum had a perplexed expression on her face while Tweedledee simply tilted her head to the right.

"They are like I said before Mr. White Knight. They are our pieces. There is no such thing as comrades or friends in the group. We simply use one another to get what we want." Tweedledum's innocent smile actually managed to unnerve Izayoi a bit.

"What Dum said, we are just playing around with everyone. Little Garden is a biiiiig playground right? So why can't we play with the pieces and dolls at our disposal to? We can do whatever we want, even rip them apart and stitch them back together!"

Dodo trembled as she hid behind the shades of Gryphon, who simply bowed his head.

Really now. Izayoi should have known. Black Percher, Leticia, even if they became Demon Lords they still valued their comrades lives and were hurt to learn they were extinguished. But the two Demon Lords now that were before him, they were simply children who did not seem to understand the concept. Why was that? Izayoi had a theory. The only times when morals were missing were due to a lack of teaching them or simply a mental condition within the human brain.

"Tch. It's a miracle Mock Turtle and Fulcanelli even were sane when dealing with you people."

"Ah! That reminds me!" Tweedledum slammed her fist into her palm, as if she had recounted something. "We still haven't decided on his punishment!"

"Don't pick on Mocky!" Dodo called out as Gryphon placed a hand on her head to try and calm her down.

"Oh, I have an idea!" Dee said turning to her sister. "How about..." Moving close to her, she began to whisper into the others ears. A grin grew on Dum's face, one that showed dark intent as her eyes glimmered to match.

"That's a good one! Let's try it!"

The two turned as one, their twin smiles sending alarm bells throughout Gryphon's body. He didn't like those looks, and by the shivering body by his side, it was obvious she didn't like them either.

Making a choice, twin shadow Peryton's burst from the ground in front of him. Twins growls floated by everyone's ears as Gryphon's face formed a frown. "Dodo, start running. We don't need any more broken eggs." He said, giving her a little push.

The girl watched as the beasts joined the monster into a mad rush towards the girls. Confusion filled her mind as she watched him. Why was he trying to help her? Wasn't he just annoying? Was this what her 'papa' meant when he said Gryphon was a stupid monster?

"Get him Gryphon!" She shouted as the monsters dived towards the two. Without the smiles leaving their faces, the girls moved their hands lazily. In an instant, Gryphon was sent flying backwards as his minions exploded into wisps of darkness. "Hey, Shade what are you doing? Get 'em!"

"The hell?" The cannibal grumbled as he got up. Fresh blood dripped down his back as a hiss of pain escaped from his throat. "What magic bullshit was that?" Forcing his body to stop swaying, he got back into position as he spat out a tooth. "Great, I liked that molar. No way I'm expiring here though. My hunger hasn't been sated yet!"

As the monster charged again, his teeth ready to chomp through their delicate skin. With another wave of their hands, the girls vanished before appearing before the angry beast. A look of shock replaced his anger as they placed their palms on his chest.

Blood exploded out of his chest as he was launched backwards once more. Slamming down next to a horrified Dodo, he looked at her from the corner of his eyes before forcing his eyes back to the sky above. He felt heavier than normal, his heart... It hurt and his stomach...

For once his insatiable hunger seemed filled.

"Gryphon?" Dodo whispered as she poked him in the chest, careful not to get blood on her. "Hey get up! You gotta beat 'em up for me... I'll give you another lollipop." As she spoke, she missed the blue candy shards that scattered the ground and the fading of colour from his eyes. "Come on... Pain's not that bad... Right?"

"Hey, kid?" Izayoi spoke, surprised by the defeat of the monster. He was stronger than this, so how did he lose so fast? What the hell did the kids do?

"Oh that was fast, didn't think he was that weak." Tweedledee mused to herself. "How boring."

"Indeed...well…We have one more toy to play with." At that moment, the twins eyes fell onto the single, purple dressed girl. Dodo had yet to recognize the gazes that fell on her. She was far too preoccupied with the blood that pooled at her feet. Didn't she see a sight like this before?

"...Oh."

She remembered. It was the time she had died. It was a painful time. A painful time that caused her sense of pain to skyrocket. It was there, lingering in her limbs and body. She never wanted to feel that again... That true pain.

The lollipop in her mouth fell to pieces in her mouth as she grit her teeth, orange shards joining the purple on the ground. Her body twitched as a phantom pain pierced her legs before enveloping her whole body. It was as if hundreds of needles were being inserted into her form.

Flames ignited in her hands as the blood on the ground began to boil. With a sudden burst of heat, the girl ignited the air as she tried to burn the girls. "Die!" She screeched. "DiediediedieDIE!"

(Watch me Papa! Watch me beat these mean girls up!)

"Boring!'

Izayoi's eyes widened as the fire that burned upon the raven's arms extinguished. The sudden removal of her attack caused the girl to pause in midair. A quiet noise as if one was being choked flowed into the blonde's ears as he rushed towards her.

(How are they doing this? They caused Gryphon's blood to explode out of his body and now they are choking Dodo without touching her? What kind of Gift is this.)

The girl's hands wrapped around her neck as she tried to rip the bandages off. From what he could see, the wrapping was tightening around her from. Grabbing the girl from where she had fallen, he reached around her neck and ripped the bandages off to allow her to breathe a little easier. But it was too late.

Her eyes faded as the light vanished little by little as her neck became a vicious red colour. From where the flames once burned were now dark burn marks as if she had been ignited herself.

(Drawback from her Gift or... From what the Girls did?)

Placing two fingers by her neck, he sighed as no pulse responded. The girl had fallen like her comrade before her, except in possibly a more peaceful way. Her neck broke due to the pressure of the wrappings, it was only natural.

"So you two have just lost your own game." He commented, not showing any other emotion then annoyance. "Was it worth it?"

"Have we lost sister?"

"Nope. Only the knight saw us. The bunny pawn hasn't seen anything yet. Besides, three, two, one." The girls counted down before floating slightly higher in the air.

"... Gryphon?" Izayoi's eyes narrowed as the sound of Mock Turtle's voice followed by light footsteps entered his ears. The cloaked man held a green lollipop in his hands as he stared at the body of his fallen friend.

"Mock Turtle." The blonde began to say before a sharp glare cut him off.

"Be quiet! I knew you were arrogant but to break the rules already? You really are... Dodo?" His voice failed as he rushed to the body of the child, his own lolly joining the shards of the earlier discarded sweets. "Dodo?" His eyes looked into the child's before looking away in anguish. His hand went over her face as he closed her eyes before performing the same rights to Gryphon.

"Rachel and Gregor... One being a child, the other a survivor... They deserved better than this. Better than dying at the hands of an arrogant child!" His words turned into a shout as water raced around his body as wisps floated to the sky above.

"Believe what you want but it wasn't me. It was the kids..." Izayoi's eyes turned to where they had been but saw nothing out of the ordinary. "Oh, you have got to be kidding me."

"How many lives will you take until you are satisfied? I may be a monster but the real devil here, is you!"

A wall of water encircled the pair, separating the two from the newly departed. Little by little, Izayoi stepped forward, not pleased at being the scapegoat for another. If he wanted to survive against the now berserk turtle, he would have to go all out.

(No way will he listen to reason... I'll just have to knock him out.)

Rushing forward, Izayoi's foot just missed shards of the discarded candy. One of lime, one of grape and one of orange. The sudden movement caused them to bounce before landing together creating a vaguely broken heart.

One that resembled the bond that had just been shattered.

END OF CHAPTER 21

TEACH ME, IZAYOI-SAN!: ANSWER SEGMENT

"Hey there folks!" Chibi Makie waved her hand as a spotlight shined on her. "Normally we would be doing this in the Library, but right now it is currently being renovated. As such any and all questions will be answered here!" Her right arm pointed to the carton of envelops, rather small ones and not that many.

"...Man we need some new reviewers. Stop being lazy you leeches. If you got time to favorite the goddamn fic then give us a fuckin review."

"With that mouth you will no doubt be turning readers away." Chibi Izayoi entered from the right side of the stage. "Ever heard of customer satisfaction?"

"Give me one instance in which the "Customer is always right" Izayoi and I will literally become a tsundere maid for everyone's enjoyment."

"You really want to make that bet?"

"Yep. Actually if we get over five reviews I will be a tsundere maid for the reviewers and those that follow and obey any one command they ask of me."

"More so then you are now?"

"Quiet moon moon."

"That is a really poor comeback."

"Really I don't care right now. Let's move on with the questions!"

"Sure, it's not my grave I dug anyway." Chibi Izayoi fished through the letters and pulled out one. "Looks like we got several from Shadowplayer360. Huh he actually came back."

At that moment, a giant billboard appeared and plastered on it was the screen capture of the reviews of the story, mainly Shadowplayer360's review.

"Hare of Inaba reference?" Chibi Makie tilted her head in confusion. "You could say that. Truth be told though the scene you may be referring too was planned for months though without any sort of reference."

"The answer is no by the way." Chibi Izayoi opened the envelope and read the contents. "Huh...If the kids like Ice cream, what would be each kids favorite flavor?"

"He has to be talking about the community kids right?"

"Could be talking about you also. You are-"

"The same age as Kasukabe!" Chibi Makie quickly added. "As such I am a teenager. Not a kid. Though we should get the community kids some ice cream...wonder what Jin and Lily like?"

"Who knows? And we can't ask them since they are part of the renovation."

"Can't they take a break?"

"Nope, they are filling in our positions."

"Been meaning to ask but why are we renovating the library."

"Let's just say things are about to take a dark turn. So this is pretty much a present. Can't guarantee you will even be around to enjoy it."

"Why am I suddenly feeling sick…"

"Next question!"

"Wait we didn't even answer the first!"

"Well after some careful planning and elaborate scheming...let's just say the kids of the [No Name]s are currently enjoying every flavor of ice cream for their break."

"...Hey wait a minute is it THAT?"

"Yes, it is THAT."

"I made THAT!"

"And I am putting it to use. Now then, for the next question if you have something else to complain about."

"...Why the heck do you look annoyed?"

"Not annoyed, just getting bored. So then…" Chibi Izayoi looked down at the paper contents again. "Between Makie, Asuka, and Yō, which would I find the most attractive? Hmm…"

"Talk about treading on thin ice…"

"To be honest Asuka."

"...That is true. Asuka is a really well developed girl, and she is pretty to boot."

"It's more than that. Asuka had the personality that fits her body type, a slim waist and figure that is close to perfect. Granted she doesn't hold a candle to Black Rabbit's hourglass figure, but I can give her a decent 88 points for having the right attitude to match that body. Though it wouldn't kill her to show some skin. Pleasing to look at and elegant. Rich girl is the picture of a proper lady."

"...Okay...what about Yō?"

"Yō is still developing so I can't say much. Her short hair and slim form is more of the cute rather than the beautiful. She has next to nothing up top, but like I said in Episode 8 of the anime, she has a slim figure that really makes you want to watch water drip down her body."

"...And me?" The chibi homunculus mentally braced herself.

"Yeah I say you are cute and I don't hold back. You really could have been a beauty if you had grown up a bit more and had your black hair. But sadly your appeal won't last long and your potential wasted. Basically you have already reached the end cap and it is now downhill from there since there is no way you should be able to grow."

"Well knew that was coming…"

"You actually took that well."

"I don't know why but I feel tired all of a sudden." Chibi Makie did look to be exhausted for some reason, though the problem didn't seem to stem from her physical body.

"That's what happens when you skip sleeping to read all the books in the library…"

"Uuuuu...next question…"

"This one is from Mingyu," Chibi Izayoi pulled out another envelop from the crate. "He sent these in a PM so the author had to do some digging in her account. She really needs to clean out her inbox. Honestly."

"The questions?" Chibi Makie began swaying.

"Yeah, yeah. The first one is...heh…"First, I'd like to ask which kind of monkey Makie would like to be (since she's been compared to several different types recently)."

*POP*

"Dammit you people why do you insist on comparing me to a damn chimp?!"

"We don't, but we can take that as an answer." Chibi Izayoi smile caused the young girl chibi to snarl and growl.

"Yes, keep it up, you are giving us more reasons to back up the claim."

"F*** YOU!"

"Rather not thank you. Ah! This next one is for Rich Girl."

"But she is working right?"

"Yep, but we have this amazing system that will let us communicate with Rich Girl inside the library!" Chibi Izayoi tapped the billboard. The screen fizzled out like an old TV occupied with snow until it showed the inside of the library...which did not seem to be a library.

"...Hey….is that the right place? That looks like a freakin art museum…..More accurate the-"

"Rich girl, can you hear me!"

"Izayoi?" The familiar voice of the elegant chibi echoed through the speakers. "Where are you?"

"Rich girl we talked about this. Follow my voice until you see the screen." Within seconds Chibi Asuka had entered the screen that reflected the inside of the library.

"Oh my, so this is how those of the future communicate? Most fascinating!"

"You can geek out later, but right now got a question for you that I doubt you can answer."

"Oh? Bold words Izayoi."

"Asuka, what's the strongest giant robot you think Deen could defeat?"

At that question Chibi Asuka blinked. Well he wouldn't say he was but….oh what the heck.

"Called it."

"Silence Izayoi!" The chibi rich girl crossed her arms. Obviously she was perplexed by the question. Giant robot? So something like Deen?

"Hmm…..Makie may I….Makie?" Chibi Asuka turned to the corner of the screen. Chibi Makie was laying on the floor, sleeping away. Floating z's escaped her mouth ever so often.

"...Well there went phone a friend. Want to try asking the audience rich girl?"

"...Oh why not? I don't understand what it is the question is referring to. Though so long as this...robot in general isn't as strong as the Dragon we faced in Volume 4 we will be able to defeat it."

"Alright audience, you heard Rich girl!" Chibi Izayoi declared. "Name a robot you think can defeat Deen!"

"Wait just one moment Izayoi! The question was in regards to which Robot can Deen defeat!"

"Rich girl, that is a hell of a list. It would be easier to list off all the robots that Deen cannot defeat."

"...Well when you put it like that…." But really that was just going to be a blow to her pride if the readers did answer her.

"Alright you guys have till the next chapter to answer Rich Girl's request. Otherwise we are moving on!" Chibi Izayoi grabbed another envelope and read the contents. "JFai sent us quite a few. So...Rich girl is Kasukabe with you?"

"Here I am." Chibi Yo walked into the camera, her cheeks puffed out.

"Oi, Kasukabe...what are you eating?"

"Creme puffs."

"...Tanuki." Chibi Asuka's remark caused Chibi Izayoi to cackle.

"You are right she does look like a racoon!"

Chibi Yo swallowed the two creme puffs that occupied her cheeks. "So, what is it that you need us for?"

"Ah right," Chibi Izayoi chuckled as he revealed the question. "if Kubey approached y'all with offering a wish at the exchange for your soul to fighting witches, would you do it?"

"Denied." Chibi Yo narrowed her eyes, while Chibi Asuka simply had a question mark light up over her head.

"Kyubey?" Chibi Yo removed her glare eyes and turned back to Chibi Asuka.

"An-"

"Ah stop, wait there Kasukabe!" Chibi Izayoi quickly interrupted before the chibi girl could go into detail. "It's best that Rich girl finds out about this herself right? So Rich GIrl, you are being taken off of Library Renovation in order to watch the show Puella Magi Madoka Magica on the magic screen box behind you."

"...Izayoi….I am well aware of what a television is."

"Ah, then what about the blu ray player?"

"Kasukabe, can you assist me?"

"...I better find some tissue boxes for you."

"Eh?"

"Alright Rich girl, enjoy the 12 episode anime, three movies and many lovely manga and the recent new light novel!"

"W-Wait just a minute here Rude Boy what are you-" The screen cut off and the billboard was pulled up.

"Well now...can't wait to see her reaction in the next chapter." Chibi Izayoi smirked, holding an evil grin on his face.

"Grumble, that was a weird dream. You forced Asuka to watch Madoka and might have given away massive spoilers." Chibi Makie said as she rubbed her eyes.

"Yeah not a dream. And I didn't give away spoilers, the question did."

"Still... Oh this one's for you. Izayoi-Kohai..."

"Older than you."

"Shut up. Do you suffer from Spiky-Hair Syndrome?"

"SHS? What is that?"

"Getting stronger when struggling..."

"Not really."

"Thing going your way."

"Slightly but it's for the best of the group."

"Getting all of the girl's affection."

"... There's a higher chance of Black Rabbit falling for me then Kasukabe and Rich Girl and even then that's doubtful. So very minor case if at all."

"That sounds about right. Last question." Makie read off. "Team Captain America or Team Iron Man."

The two looked at each other before sighing. "None. Marvel Civil War was dumb." Chibi Makie said shaking her head.

"Welcome to Civil War where both sides are wrong and there's a battle going on in space which is more important than what happens in America. But if we had to pick..."

"The cap's side. Iron Man's group built a prison where they were ready to imprison everyone who was against them. Oh and they released villains and let them run wild to catch heroes who did join the government."

"And then there's One More Day..." Chibi Izayoi began before Chibi Makie jumped at him.

"No! Don't mention that! It was rubbish! We are ending this now!"

"Hey, remember the bit with..."

"End it! End it now!"

SEGMENT END

After months of struggling….we finally got it out…..*Collapses* I am so sorry my loyal readers! I got a job now and its working nights, and me and my partner can only interact when it is night time on my end….so our time has been severally cut short….I am so very sorry! *Bows and sits Sanza!*

Even so we promise that we are finally getting to the halfway point of the story! The next following chapters will definitely be entertaining ones for sure I swear!

So then…before I forget and am flagged or flamed, Red Queen is more of a mixture of the Queen of Hearts and the Red Queen of Alice in Wonderland. Everyone in the [Jabberwocky] community is insane in their own right and their own way, either due to their past lives or current. Yes this extends to former members also. Also, Red Queen's hat is actually based off of the lovely Rider (Marie Antoinette) of Fate/Grand Order. The idea came from her! XD

Let's see, what else can I talk about…oh! Makie will be staring in another fic! Its written by Fennikusumaru on his other fanfiction page Fennikusumaru 2.0 and the fic is Fate/Stay Night: The Final Grail. Makie will make her debut in chapter 3 and I hope she is the same, sassy girl you fell in love with for those who read A Game of Memory on my page.

Also, I have decied, if you want to use Makie or any of my OC"s then you are allowed to with permission from me, but the Jabberwocky characters will require dual permission from me and Shadow Ninja Koopa. They are a joint project…well same with Makie of course X'D, but I feel like the Jabberwocky are only brought to life thanks to him.

In fact, thank Koopa in general. My partner has been with me for….four years now? And thanks to him we got through Act 1 of Dissida (Which for god's sake StarlightAT Get off your ass and get to work on arc 2!). This guy has endured my bipolarism, my whines and my constant changing idea sand helped me bring the fics I have gotten going all the way to the point they are at.

So seriously Koopa, thank you so very much for being my most amazing partner! You are the best writer an author can ask for!

Well that's all as by the time of this writing. So you know the drill by now, read and review because reviews are the lifeblood of this fic and without blood…it dies…..horribly!