Æt Āwēdan
(Near Madness)

"Before journeying to the Ruins, we shall meet with a local witch."

Viola's statement had been simple enough, but this was three hours ago. It was nearly noon as they continued their undetermined travellng. Their route being pathless, Natsuki had lost count over how many times she had tripped. This thick underbrush had dried her patience long ago, merely making her stagger more. Ugh, where are they going?! She was starting to wonder if Viola had gotten them lost. "We need to find this witch because…?" Didn't witches dislike people as it is?

"I met her a long time ago. She offers important information and advice for various items."

Various items? Natsuki quirked a brow but fell silent either way. The answer would suffice. Lagging behind Viola and Tomoe solemnly, their trek for the most part was uneventful. The Sprites Forest was incredibly deep. As of yet they hadn't met a single soul: only the resounding birdsong chattering around them. So much in fact that Natsuki would be surprised if she didn't get a headache. But, well—she supposed it was better than the wolves or horse. That terrifying presence she had recently experienced hadn't shown up yet. It was only when she was alone that it struck. 'Just her luck that she was forced to remain by Viola's side. Yet in spite of this, Natsuki was still conflicted. The Archvalkyrja is a murderer—somebody to fear. But even so…? Wandering her eyes along Viola's back, she frowned. She hadn't harmed her.

Adjusting some of the supplies she was carrying, Natsuki grumbled softly. The other two were carrying the same load, so she couldn't complain. Still, it incredibly annoyed her how they were perfectly fine with theirs. Not once had she witnessed Viola or Tomoe stumble. Nevertheless, they were proficient warriors: She was not. But that's just it, isn't it? Natsuki was nothing compared to them—even the castle servants. The more she learned, the further confusing it became. The less she knew, the more painful it was. There was never a balance, only a coin toss to determine heads or tails. She did not belong here, yet Viola and Tomoe seemed adamant in seizing her. Shaking her head, Natsuki forced the internal ramblings away. She was stuck in her own head again. It was pointless going over this.

"It's been a while since we last saw her." Tomoe said to Shizuru, causing Natsuki to pick her gaze up. "What will you be offering this time?"

"Last we visited, she spoke of Florentine herbs and Mauryan spices. A recent shipment to the palace had some of these in stock."

"Herbs and spices? What did you pay to get those from the Queen?" Tomoe cocked a brow curiously. Herbs were expensive enough, but spices? Those were worth more than gold!

"Mh." Viola smiled. "The Spymaster knows of our arrangement with the witch." About to get interrupted by Tomoe's concern, she lifted a hand to silence her. "Ever since the accident last year, we have been trading information. This is how I knew about the Florentine civil war and Galleria cutting ties with Windbloom."

The accident…? Natsuki eyed the two as they finally came to a stop. She looked around in confusion, There's nothing even here? They were still in the middle of the forest with no path in sight.

"She'll get curious, you know?" Tomoe breathed quietly to Viola who pulled out an Anchoring crystal. "Are you sure?"

"Of course I am." Dragging her attention to the youngest Einherjar, Viola gestured her over with an index and middle finger. "Natsuki, come. We have arrived."

"But there's nothing here?" Carefully bypassing lumps of underbrush, Natsuki halted between Tomoe and Viola. Clearly there were uncountable trees standing before them—up until Viola lifted the Anchor, that is.

Propping the crystal between her index finger and thumb, Viola tilted the Anchor. Green, purple and black specks gleamed within it, reflecting light from off its surface. Ever so subtly, something shifted within the forest before them. But what was that? Viola remained still as a rather unsettling atmosphere formed from the Anchor.

Hesitantly stepping away from Viola, Natsuki glanced between her and the treeline. A flicker of an outline was materialising between the trees. In awe, the Einherjar stared as a wooden mansion phased into existence. How?

Seemingly reading Natsuki's mind, Viola commented: "Anchoring can also be used to conceal targets. It is in a witch's nature that they would prefer this privacy." Glancing Natsuki's way, Viola studied her. "Do you understand?"

Nodding slowly, Natsuki's attention drifted away from her as the mansion's front door opened. "I think so, yeah." ...That's the witch? Natsuki was evidently surprised, having not expected her appearance.

"Good." The Archvalkyrja smiled as the witch revealed herself. "Yukino, it is good to see you again, how are you?" Heading over to the shorter woman, Viola introduced herself.

She was perhaps an inch shorter than Natsuki and wore a layered dress. Its colouring varied, ranging from dark hues to vibrant splashes of colour. There was no set pattern, and the closer Natsuki looked, the less order the fabric held. Wool, linen cotton—this clothing was a seamstress' worst nightmare. Unconsciously taking a step closer, Natsuki was derailed from her trance by Tomoe's hand.

"Don't go near her yet."

But why? Natsuki frowned after Tomoe who merely returned the exchange.

"I have been well. The night's have been clear and studying the stars has gone well. What did you bring me this time?" The witch unfolded her old spectacles that hung by a chain around her neck. "You have two Einherjar now?"

"Herbs and spices. I remember you wishing you could obtain Florentine mandrake, no?"

"Oh!" Placing her glasses upon her nose, Yukino took the offered bag. "I didn't expect you to find any in such short notice." Excitedly untying the leather, she looked inside. "Was it problematic cutting it?"

Viola laughed. "The palace shipment declared that no one died." Or maybe they did, but that wasn't important. "Yes, I support two Einherjar now. My new one is called Natsuki."

Feeling peculiar being spoken about, Natsuki only continued to stand beside Tomoe awkwardly. She still didn't understand why she needed to wait here. Was the witch that unpredictable? Nevertheless, the mousy woman looked satisfied with the items she had received.

"Come in." The witch spoke to Viola. Twisting slightly, she also regarded the two EInherjar. "You two as well."

Natsuki let Tomoe in front, still feeling a little unsure. So it's like that? Did a witch require goods before she invited her visitors inside? 'Seemed to be the case.

"Much has happened since my last visit." Viola remarked as Yukino opened the door for them. "We fear a Florentine invasion is imminent and there is evidence that the plague is returning."

Now inside the foyer, Natsuki was greeted by two routes: a stairwell and a set of doors. Looking around curiously, she grumbled when Tomoe nudged her to continue. The witch and Viola weren't waiting for them as they headed for the double doors.

"Again? Both of those things are yet to hit this region. How severely has it affected the Kazahana Province?" Yukino opened the doors into what turned out to be a great library. "Please, put your things down here. Your journey must've been arduous?"

"Quite." Slipping her supplies from off her back, Viola summoned her Einherjar closer. "Tomoe, the Anchor." There were more reasons than one for why they were here. "Yukino, could you take a look at this Anchor? As of late this greater crystal has held disturbing results." Viola took the chained Anchor from Tomoe, allowing it to hang from her fingertips. "I fear something evil may have entered it."

Evil? Natsuki glanced their way, having ventured close but was standing by a bookcase. Removing her supplies also, she dropped it beside Tomoe's and Viola's. There were books everywhere! She swore all these books in front of her were triple her age at least.

"Let me take a look." The witch took the crystal, taking it over to her desk located in the far corner. "Something certainly feels off about it." Sitting herself down, Yukino placed it down upon a slab. Hovering above it was a large magnifying glass which she prised close to the Anchor. "Tomoe, you're the one who uses this, yes?"

"That's correct."

"Can you describe how you feel when using it?"

Peeking behind the bookcase, Natsuki eyed the three. Who is this witch? Hesitantly moving away from the books, she headed towards them instead. The mousy woman was hunched down in deep focus. She watched as two metal rods were used to rotate the crystal gently.

"Hm." Tomoe rather uncomfortably sounded before continuing. "It feels like my head gets filled by something whenever I use it: Like I'm having a nervous breakdown but not at the same time."

"Almost as though something wants in?" Yukino supplied and received a nod. Humming, she continued her study of the crystal. "Nothing particularly looks wrong with it." Sliding the utensils along the smooth surface, a scratch was dug into it however. Now this certainly wasn't natural. She observed the cracks heal, the crystal appearing as though it hadn't been damaged at all. "Has this happened before?"

"What… I… I don't understand."

Halting behind Tomoe, Natsuki looked over her shoulder. The witch repeated the action, the crystalline tear sealing up within milliseconds. What on…? "How could it do that?"

"I have no idea." Yukino murmured, adjusting her glasses. Sitting up straight, she opened her desk drawer and rummaged inside. "Shizuru, I may need to take this from your hands. I sense something is dangerously wrong with this one. Do you have spare Anchors?"

"Yes. I have a dozen still in my possession." This was unfortunate. The greater crystal was their most powerful Anchor. This could possibly make their salvage mission in the ruins more difficult. "Shall I return during the winter?"

"That would be for the best, but…" Angling the magnifying glass away from the Anchor, Yukino's attention moved. Shifting her focus upon Tomoe and Natsuki, she studied them quietly. The Anchor was perhaps the least of the Valkyrja's concerns. "Your Einherjar: May I read their futures?"

Taken aback, Natsuki glanced Viola's way curiously. Tomoe on the other hand seemed unfazed. Perhaps during past visits this had been normalcy? Either way, the Archvalkyrja accepted the offer and it was Natsuki's turn.

"Bring the seat over there." Yukino directed a jewelled finger towards it as she adjusted her workspace. Revealing a cloth, she wrapped up the Anchor and placed it within the drawer. "Natsuki; have you ever had your palms read?"

"No." She answered, placing the chair on the desk's opposite side. "What do I need to do?"

"Just relax and rest the back of your hands on the desk."

Doing this, Natsuki briefly flinched when the witch's warm fingertips brushed against hers. Her touch tickled faintly, making Natsuki feel conflicted. She wasn't quite sure whether she liked this sensation.

"Tell me, are you of Earth origin?"

She knew that? Natsuki unconsciously glanced towards Viola, unsure whether she should answer. The Archvalkyrja merely smiled at her: She guessed it was fine then? "...Yeah." Natsuki confirmed, her right hand now being cupped between Yukino's.

"As always, these readings will be done in private." Yukino remarked, dismissing the Valkyrja and Einherjar from the room. Once they were alone, the witch continued: "Now… There's many paths you can take within your lifetime. Though the creases here—" She gently ran a nail across them. "—implies your past was difficult. Do you remember anything?"

"No… only…" Should she really say anything, though? "Mh. I don't know if I remember anything." Dreams and memories weren't the same. Just as moonlight was compared to a flame. They produced similar results, but that didn't make them the same. "I dream a lot." Having been staring down at their hands, Natsuki's gaze pulled up. "Can you explain them to me?"

"I may." Hazel eyes scoped along the Einherjar's face, studying attentively. There was a lot of built up anxiety within this one, she noticed. "What are these dreams?"

"For a few nights now I've had these nightmares. I don't know if they're memories or just dreams. It's…" She paused in her rambling, veering her gaze away from the patient witch. "It started when I saw a silver wolf in this forest. It never attacked me. I think it was guiding me."

"A wolf?" That was an interesting detail indeed. "Wolves can represent loyalty, confidence, loneliness… many things. When silver, hm… How did you feel looking at it? What was it doing?"

"I followed it as it walked away.

"Are others aware of it?"

Aware of…? "No. It's been in front of me and others never saw it." It had also given her flashbacks, hadn't it? Assuming those were memories. "It... it gave me flashbacks, I think." Natsuki's face scrunched with thought. "Its eyes change too."

Was that silver wolf this Einherjar's Key? If so, this Einherjar was advancing far too quickly. Yukino would need to reveal this information to Shizuru. "I believe this wolf might symbolise your need for companionship." Returning her focus to the Einherjar's hands, she said: "There is no doubt this new world terrifies you. It worries you that your chosen path might be a mistake. But, because of this fear, you also refuse to connect with others." There was more here, Yukino realised, but she was unsure whether to highlight it. Something sinister was afoot. Leadership… affection… injury. Yes, she needed to reveal this. "Be warned, I sense injury: Whether this is yourself or another is yet to be seen."

"Injury? Companionship? How do you know all of this?" Viola hadn't told her anything beforehand, right? Natsuki's suspicions rose, but... Quickly she realised that Viola had only left the Palace without her once. During that time she had slaughtered an entire community of brigands. No, this witch hadn't been told a thing.

Later, Natsuki had relocated inside the foyer with Viola. She had no idea what to do with herself. How had the witch known all of that? How did Viola know this woman? Sighing, she was simply reminded how insignificant her existence was within this world. Natsuki had ended up only revealing the silver wolf. Genuinely she was afraid of discussing the hallucinatory horse. Was she stupid for keeping this away from Yukino? Did she somehow know about that as well? Is she psychic? Oh, her head. Hel if she knows.

"Thank you for your visit." Yukino stood by the door with Viola as the Einherjar awaited. "Please do bring them during the winter." She gestured to Tomoe and Natsuki. "I have imbued some of my power into this rune." She handed over the stone shard over. "It will notify you when I'm finished with the Anchor."

"Thank you as well." The Valkyrja smiled, though sobered upon the witch's next declaration.

"...I worry about them. Remember to speak with your Einherjar, Shizuru. You know better than I what may be wrong, but even I sense it." Oh, before she forgot! "Could you please give this to the Captain of the Guard?" Unpocketing a letter, she pressed it into the Archvalkyrja's hands.

"Captain Armitage?"

Not having heard a word, the two Einherjar were double checking the supplies. They would be heading out for the Garderobe Ruins any minute now. Natsuki herself was lost within her head. She couldn't stop thinking about what the witch had told her. Who would've thought wolves represented so many things? But what did she mean about injury? She was already apprehensive about the Ruins, let alone a witch telling her this! Tomoe was completely quiet too. What had she been told? Natsuki's mind could only soar as she heaved her bag onto her shoulders. It was exhausting to think so much, nor had their journey helped. They had a long night ahead of them still.

Stop thinking.

"I will hand it over when I am able." Viola nodded. She would speak to her Einherjar at a later date. Though now was not the time. "Look after yourself. The flooding season is drawing close."

"You yourself."

Heading for her Einherjar, the Archvalkyrja dipped down to pick up her supplies. "Let us move out." She murmured to the younger two, twisting around to bid the witch farewell.

Natsuki got moving, but as she did so, her gaze drew behind her to the mansion. A peculiar bittersweetness overtook her as she witnessed the building and witch fade from existence. Would she ever see her again? Natsuki didn't like the sudden thought.

"The Garderobe Ruins lie within unoccupied territory." Viola unfolded the regional map which they had used this entire day. "We shall soon approach the Canal de la Rosalie. This old waterway will take us directly there."

Like Viola had said, an hour or so later they had arrived at the canal. It was old indeed and many of the stone bricks had broken away. The water was only a shallow trickle now, moss and plants having overtaken it ages ago. Skirting the edge, Natsuki wondered how old this canal was. Who even was this Rosalie? No doubt some prude noble from the previous century. Or maybe it's older than that? "Where does this go—other than to Garderobe, I mean."

"It cuts through the Ruins and heads straight to Lutecia. In the opposite direction it leads to Florence." Viola said, having them follow its edge. Hopefully they would find a lock, allowing them to bypass the canal entirely. It would be fortunate if the bridges were still secure. "We should set up camp once we arrive at the cliffs. The operation will likely take a whole day."

Opening her eyes, Natsuki tiredly gazed upon the tent's sheet wall. Her exhaustion was overbearing, but she simply couldn't sleep: An infuriating normalcy these days. The bedrolls either side of her were also vacant, and whispering could be heard some feet away: "Sometimes I see things out the corner of my eye..." Tomoe? "...but when I look, nothing's there. My dreams are always psychotic. It's… there's this woman who's frequently in them. She'll watch me from afar. When I reach her, I try to talk to her, but all she does is stare. I… Shizuru, I started seeing her. She was in the quarters last night, in that corner with the chair." What…? Natsuki stared at the tent, unable to believe her ears. Tomoe experienced the same thing as her? "...Shadow figure… 'don't know what to do. Is it the Phase Shift? Am I insane? ...Have you seen her?"

Should… Should she exit the tent? Natsuki felt conflicted, but her internal ramblings were cut short by the next exchange: "...A woman? Mh…" — "Shizuru?" — "Sorry… I am exhausted, is all. This woman: Is there a reason why she appears? Are you afraid, tired, paranoid? Again, could it be the Anchor?" — "I don't know… ever since the Phase she's been appearing. I only ever seem to feel better when you are with me."

Sliding a palm down her face, Natsuki dragged herself up into a slouched position. Right, that does it. Heaving herself up, she threw on her clothing and momentarily brushed down their creases. Unsealing the tent, she cautiously edged out into the open.

"Shizuru, have you ever seen anything?"

Natsuki froze on the spot, blanketed by the surrounding azure hue. The Phase had totally converted the horizon with a blue aura. It wasn't known when it would go back to normal, nor did it help Natsuki. The unnatural environment put her on edge as she stared at Viola and Tomoe's backs. They sat on the cliff edge overlooking the distant Ruins below.

"A... Hm." Viola hummed, gathering her hair and putting it behind her shoulders, her head pulled downwards. "I do not feel it is yet ap—"

"—Why? You're always like this, Shizuru!" Edging closer to the Archvalkyrja, Tomoe clutched her upper-arm. "I know you're ly—"

"—Silence your tongue." Viola stared her down callously. Her gaze wandered, catching sight of Natsuki who was bolted to the spot. Her other Einherjar had clearly heard everything. "This discussion ends here." Rising to her feet, Viola headed towards the forest. "I will fetch more firewood. Do not follow me."

"Shiz—" Making a stand as well, Tomoe sighed and allowed her arms to fall limp. Twisting back around, she sat herself down again. What's the point?

Viola passed by Natsuki, sending a chill down her spine. The look she had received had been a warning. Did… did Viola hallucinate as well? She watched as the Archvalkyrja lit her lantern and disappeared out of view. Turning her attention to Tomoe, she approached her angrily. "So what was that about?"

"As she said, there's nothing to talk about."

"Just like that?" Not receiving an answer, Natsuki's patience quickly dispersed. "She completely ignored you! You're seei—"

"I said there's nothing to talk about!" Tomoe berated, her tone ice as she glared over her shoulder. "I am the bearer of the Anchor. It was bound to happen."

"That's it? Because of some stupid crystal you're sacrificing your feelings? She just treated you like shit?" Sitting herself down beside Tomoe, Natsuki pointedly eyed her. "...I see things as well."

"Congratulations." Tomoe muttered, leaning backwards into her hands. "Aren't we lucky."

Natsuki wasn't sure if Tomoe was being condescending or not. Eyeing her levelly, she studied her carefully. Interestingly enough, she couldn't sense any negativity. Rather, Tomoe appeared saddened as she stared down at the Ruins.

"What do you see?" Tomoe released another sigh.

"I mostly have nightmares, but… there's two I see—a horse and a wolf. The horse is… I don't know… it's like it controls my hallucinations." She wasn't really sure how to describe it, but it certainly seemed like this was true.

"...Animals?" Tomoe questioned, I'm sorry—for treating you like shit, I mean."

"Ah, well." Natsuki shrugged. "Sorry for punching you."

They fell quiet as the breeze picked up into a gale. The wind pushed through the decrepit forest, creaking old branches. It was at that point that Natsuki suddenly remembered they were alone. She didn't feel paranoid—least not yet. Glancing over her shoulder, Natsuki peered into the gloomy darkness of the forestline. Nothing—don't think about it. "When did yours start?"

"I've had nightmares for a long time. The woman?" Falling silent again, the elder Einherjar cupped her jaw and cheek in thought. Yesterday? The day previous? Honestly, she wasn't even sure. "Day before yesterday." She concluded, allowing her arm to fall within her lap. "I wish Shizuru would open up. I know for a fact she's struggling with something. But whenever I ask she just…" Releasing another sigh, Tomoe crossed her arms to ward away the cold. "Just once I wish she'd make sense."

"And be less intimidating." Natsuki muttered in continuation. Seriously though, should she be wary that she is sharing so much information with Tomoe? The witch did tell her she hated connecting with people. Maybe she should…? Wandering her gaze along the fellow Einherjar's form however, she still wasn't sure. Tomoe looked as though the world had squared upon her shoulders, pushing her downwards. "Wouldn't she be forced to admit it if we both—"

A humourless laugh released from Tomoe's lips. "No way would she ever do that. You've seen her in combat; that's exactly how she guards her feelings." Sometimes it felt like Shizuru was just a physical husk. A doll without a soul. "I wonder if a Valkyrja's soul is stolen. But then the voices—the Anchor—tells me otherwise."

Voices? What is she talking about suddenly? Giving Tomoe a questioning look, Natsuki observed the Einherjar.

"You do not exist. I wonder what the Anchor meant by that?" Of course Tomoe exists, she's here, isn't she?

Natsuki had never known what to expect from Tomoe, but it certainly hadn't been this. Is she mad? Why was she sharing so much information with her as well? Was it because of Viola…? "Why are you telling me all of this?"

"Because you—" Tomoe looked at her, something within her gaze changing. "—Are the only one who has ever listened."

A tension suddenly rose, forming a foreboding atmosphere for Natsuki. Everything felt wrong. "T-that crystal." Her tone lifted with the lifting pressure: "Does it always feel like someone's invading?"

The Einherjar only smiled at her, Viola announcing her presence at that moment.

"I have returned." Viola stepped towards them with firewood under her arm. "Tomoe, help me make the fire."

"Something has been here rather recently." Viola knelt down to inspect the hallway floor. Brushing her fingertips along the tiles, the pads skimmed along deep slashes within the marble. A heavy object had been pushed along the floor: Almost as though a statue had been here. Though this couldn't be possible, the Garderobe Ruins only had one deep underground. "The two of you: Be careful, there may be something here." Or perhaps someone. Wandering her eyes along the corridor, Viola eased back to her full height and lifted her lantern. This building was more dilapidated now. This was perhaps their final visit—at least within this section of the building. It may already be too dangerous.

Specifically they were within the crumbling corridor Natsuki had been in previously. It was much the same as before, except now the floor was in a worse state. How? Natsuki warily approached the ditch on their far end, spotting snapped piping and muck. Were the foundations in this part weak?

"Tomoe, check the west wing." Viola pinpointed the Einherjar into the correct direction before aiming her sights on Natsuki. She gazed upon the younger woman through the dull illumination, catching sight of apprehension. It was obvious that she was still terrified of this place. "Natsuki, this way. We will check upstairs." Unfortunately, the partially collapsed stairwell was blocked by the shattered corridor. It would take some work to reach it. Unless…

Natsuki hesitantly approached the Archvalkyrja. Ever since the hours previous, Viola's mood had been fluctuating. As Tomoe said, something was obviously on her mind: maybe the witch had said something?

"We shall check the east wing first. There may be another route to the upper storeys."

Given no other option, Natsuki followed after her. "What do you mean there's something here?"

"Last I was here, the floor did not have those scratch marks." Viola paused midstep to direct a languid index to their feet. Sure enough, the damage was clearly evident beneath the lantern light. "Tomoe can protect herself. You cannot."

The blunt conclusion stabbed like a knife. Opening her mouth in order to disagree, Natsuki relented a moment later. Whether she liked it or not, the Valkyrja was correct. Solemnly tailing Viola, the atmosphere was thick between them as they started their search. It was incredibly silent—so much in fact that Natsuki could hear her blood. It disturbingly rushed through her eardrums, frying her nerves further. Lost within her own mind, she jumped as she bumped into Viola's back.

"...I sense something." The Archvalkyrja breathed.

Something really is here? Natsuki's heart leapt with anxiety as she quickly looked around. Nothing but darkness surrounded them. The paranoia created from Viola's words alone sent shockwaves through her system.

Killing the lamp's flame, Viola engulfed them within the pitch blackness. No sound, neither any movement. But still, Viola's eyes trained upon a particular corner inside one of the rooms. Blindly reaching behind her, she grasped Natsuki's wrist. "Stay here." She commanded, setting the lantern handle into the Einherjar's hands.

Easing forward within the blackness, Viola's eyes slowly adjusted to their surroundings. Now able to see, her speckled night-vision saw nothing in particular. Drifting further into the room, her steps were light as she drew her sabre. The blade ran across the metallic sheath, sounding like nails along a chalkboard. It was then as she paused that the presence within this crumbling classroom shifted.

Natsuki, who remained by the doorway nearly flew out of her skin when the blade struck. Leaping into the room, her eyes were deadset upon Viola's back who was poised in position: her sabre above her head. W-wha-t ha—

A bundle of material pooled before Viola's feet. What was that…? Natsuki's eyes remained bolted to it until the Archvalkyrja turned around. "What's—"

"—Back." Viola ordered, ushering the Einherjar out of the classroom.

"B-ut what was th—"

"Slaves."

The explanation released from the Archvalkyrja's lips just as the pool of fabric lifted. Looking over Viola's shoulder at the unnatural action, Natsuki took a step backwards. The warning wouldn't leave her, rather, she was stuck in place. At that moment, Viola turned around to see the husk stand.

The emaciated corpse released a brittle shriek, disrupting the dead silence. Stumbling forward, it edged towards them.

"Shizuru!" Tomoe came bounding, her lantern engulfing them into light. Spotting the Slave as well, she shoved the lamp over to Natsuki who fumbled with both. "Get out the way." Removing her handaxe from her belt loop, she jumped into action as Viola cut into the husk's torso. "There's more coming. They must be the plague victims from the dock."

T-the plague d-id this?! How could anyone expect Natsuki to respond to this?! Twisting around, no doubt about it, two other husks staggered down the corridor towards them.

A disturbing thunk resounded from the classroom, followed by weight falling.

"Shizuru?!"

...Had Viola got injured? The witch's warning from last night barraged Natsuki's skull. O-oh, Go-ds'. S-she… What should she d-o? Throwing the lanterns to the floor, she unsheathed her sabre into shaky hands. Natsuki's reality was turned upside down within the chaos. What could she do? What would she do? Which pathway would she take now that she has found the crossroad?

"You bastard." The hiss released from Viola's lips as she cut down the husk. Disgusting brown gunk bled from its abdomen as it was thrown backwards. Smashed into the wall, a bloodied blade flew from its hand, clanging to the floor noisily. An enraged snarl tore from its throat, the monster leaping for Viola instead. Veering away as the Slave launched back at her, Tomoe's handaxe lodged within its skull instead: The decrepit corpse groaned as it collapsed, tumbling to the floor.

"V-Viola?!" They heard Natsuki from the corridor who stumbled inside. Two more Slaves waltzed on inside; bodies skeletal and rotten as they heaved forward.

Cupping her left side, Viola motioned Tomoe who pushed Natsuki aside. "Kill the rest." She released a pained sigh as she gave the downed Slave a cursory glance. Dead, good.

"Get out of the way." Tomoe grunted as she swung her handaxe at the husk who had moved in front. Natsuki skittered away, her sabre still within her hands. "We need to get out into the open." Where had that last one gotten that blade? Husks were braindead, how did it have the cognitive power to use a weapon?

"H-how deep is it?" Natsuki dared to ask, her sabre shaking within her hands as she stared Tomoe's way. She felt completely useless as the Einherjar cut down their undead adversaries. What is she supposed to do?! She couldn't fight these things!

"Manageable." The Archvalkyrja's teeth gritted behind sealed lips. This was the second time she had been injured. This was unacceptable. Leaning her back against the dilapidated wall, Viola fought against the nausea which threatened to overtake her. This was bad. Her blood oozed from behind her fingers, staining her clothing and skin horribly. Had it cut through the first layer of skin…? Within the darkness she hadn't a clue. Nor could she think straight as unimaginable pain overwhelmed her mind. She... she watched Tomoe whoozily.

Crushing her axe into the Slave's throat, Tomoe severed several chunks of bone. The husk's head pulled downwards, its neck no longer supporting it. Blood spurted from the wound like a fountain, showering the ceiling. Ugh, Tomoe couldn't see a thing! Slamming her boot against the corpse's chest, the powerful kick flung it back into the other. Tumbling over each other, the Slaves roared and recoiled in spiteful hatred. She really needed another weapon for this... Whatever. Twisting the handaxe around, Tomoe struck the husks' with the axehead's blunt end. Bones crunched, bits flew and blood exuded from the howling Slaves.

"W...whoa." Natsuki was unable to believe her eyes as Tomoe slaughtered the husks single-handedly. She's merciless!

Easing to her feet once the husks stilled, Tomoe rushed to Viola. "Shizuru!" She knelt down before the Valkyrja who had crumpled down. "Get the lanterns." She ushered at Natsuki whose legs were bolted. "Now!"

Jumping into action, Natsuki panicked as she avoided the 'dead' Slaves. Almost tripping over them, she fumbled with the lamps. She hadn't been prepared for this! S-she—Viola's hurt; the witch was right! "F-fuck!" A lantern slipped from her grasp, rolling across the floor. Stumbling for it, she hurriedly returned to them.

"Light them and take one to the corridor. Warn me immediately if you see more Slaves." Tomoe ordered, delicately prising Viola's shirt upwards. As the first lamp was lit, the small flame illuminated the three women dully. It was worse than she feared, she winced. The jagged blade had cut an incised wound diagonally across Viola's middle. It was a long tear which started along the stomach and cut into the side. "Shizuru, can you hear me?"

"Hn…?" Bleary crimsons gazed at Tomoe. Oh, her side! Hissing, a groan released from her lips as she pushed her palm against her wound. "T-Tomo-e? Did you kill th-e Slaves?" Her fuzzy vision swept the room but found none standing. Instead, her eyes caught upon the hovering lamp beside the doorway. Natsuki stood guard with it; her sabre unsheathed within her other hand.

"I did. Natsuki's on lookout. Can you stand?"

"I… I th-ink so."

Natsuki couldn't believe what was happening. The witch had known something wa—suddenly, a Slave appeared from nowhere out the crumbled stairwell. The lantern went clattering across the corridor as she yelled out in surprise. Unconsciously arcing her sabre upwards, the blade slashed the corpse from torso to chin. W-wh— "Get away from me!" She growled as her flight or fight instincts kicked in.

"...Nat-suki?" Viola's gaze picked up as she leaned heavily into Tomoe's side. N-no, she needed to—prising herself from Tomoe, she delved for her blade and staggered towards her. Ignoring her eldest Einherjar's concern, she landed a hand upon Natsuki's shoulder. "Move." She commanded as her Einherjar glanced her way fearfully. Pushing her aside, Viola mercilessly swerved her blade, sending the husk's head sailing down the corridor. A disgusting thunk was heard some feet away until it soundlessly rolled away.

"...V-Vio—" Natsuki watched Viola who wavered on her feet. Then, the corpse and Valkyrja collapsed heavily. "Viola!" Throwing herself down beside her, Natsuki stammered: "W-what do we do?" She started to evidently panic as Tomoe stood stunned. "W-well?!"

Rushing over, Tomoe began to pull Viola up. "Help me walk her out. We need to get outside." In case of emergency they had hidden the supplies in the underbrush at Garderobe. "When we get to the supplies, prepare a fire. We need to cauterise the wound before she bleeds out."

"W-what?" Natsuki could only stare as they heaved Viola towards the exit. They were going to operate on her here?! "We can't j—"

"—Just what?! This is an emergency! She will die unless we do something!" Tomoe berated the Einherjar. Reaching the exit doors, she allowed Viola's full weight to lean onto Natsuki who immediately stumbled into the corridor wall. Twisting the doorknob, she cursed as it refused to open. "Oh, for—" Taking a step back, she kicked the wooden barrier. Slam!

"S-surely the—" Slam! "—re's another—" Slam! The old lock gave way abruptly; the door smashing open violently. "—way?" Natsuki blinked, overgrown foliage now greeting them on the other side of the doorway. Pushing forward, their joint effort had them bring Viola to their supplies. Natsuki was in complete autopilot as she scoured for resources. Gathering sticks—anything that would burn—she piled them beside Tomoe and Viola. No moment was spared as she then ripped tall grass by their roots. They needed a fire, not an inferno.

"Shizuru, are you awake?" Tomoe had laid the Archvalkyrja onto her back. Tapping her fingertips along her jaw gently, she attempted to awaken her. There was no response. With concern, the Einherjar triple-checked her wound. S-Shizuru's spiritual energy was too low. She couldn't risk self-rejuvenating the wound even if she was conscious. "Make the fire faster!" She panicked.

"I'm going as fast as I can!" Natsuki snapped as she scattered sticks atop brambles and leaves. Grabbing two sticks, she rubbed them furiously. Is this a nightmare?! They were at the Garderobe Ruins, so surely?! Sparks miraculously leapt from the sticks: throwing them into the flames, she leaned close and blew the embers. "Now what?"

"Take this." Tomoe threw over a rod. "Heat the end—the flames must encase it until it's red." Attention leaping back to Viola, she reached for a waterskin beside her. Agh, this is insane! "Shizuru!" Tomoe nudged her shoulder before splashing water across the wound. The blood was washed away and smeared across pale skin. This was the best they could do without herbal medication.

"H-hu-h." Viola half-consciously peered up to Tomoe in confusion. Where…? Her gaze wavered to the side to inspect where they were. The Garderobe Ruins still? ...Huh, she felt so cold. "T-Tomoe." She sighed. "T-the Anchor, I wi—"

"No you will not. You're too weak for that." The witch had it too. It's serious if Shizuru's mind is cloudy like this.

Too weak for what? Natsuki's gaze picked up as she chucked more leaves into the fire. Looking towards Viola's side, she got an eyeful of the oozing wound. Feeling all but nauseous, her face scrunched up. Ugh. It was bubbling and everything. Instead, she anxiously surveyed the rod which was piled to the brim with sticks, leaves and twigs. It was nowhere near hot enough yet. This was taking too long! Viola would bleed out!

...Yet, why did she care? The sudden realisation paused her conflicted mind. Why indeed… Returning her gaze to Tomoe, she also noticed she hadn't heard a word what they were talking about. What had…?

"I can and I shall, Einherjar." Viola made a move to sit upwards but was stopped. "Einh—"

"Will you just stop and listen for two seconds, already?!" The Valkyrja and Natsuki were stunned into silence from Tomoe's outburst. "Lie down else you'll die!"

Glaring through the Einherjar, the woozy Valkyrja did just this.

She had actually listened? Natsuki stared in awe, quite unable to believe her eyes. Checking the fire a moment later, she noted it was nearly ready. "The rod's almost-"

"I-f y...ou thi-nk y-y-y...ou are—"

"—Shizuru!" Tomoe had seriously had it 'to here' with the Valkyrja. "We need to cauterise your wound before you bleed out." Recognising that VIola's consciousness was fading again, she turned her attention to her fellow Einherjar: "Natsuki, listen to me closely." Receiving her attention, she continued: "I will need you to hold her down when I cauterise the wound—It's going to be agony for her."

Wasn't that obvious? Natsuki winced, cautiously tapping the back of her fingers against the burning rod. It was smouldering hot to the touch. "I-it's ready, I think." She felt sick.

Reaching for the supplies, Tomoe quickly found the bandages. Unable to find anything else but a blanket, she sighed in realisation. They had forgotten the slab of wood to bite down on. There was no helping it. Straining further into the bag, she pulled out a spare blanket. "Shizuru." Edging closer to her, Tomoe spoke softly to her. "Bite down onto this. It's going to hurt."

"Mhn?"

Pulling out another blanket, Tomoe stood. "Start pinning her; she's too out of it to fight back yet."

How could Tomoe be so confident in this? Either way, Natsuki hesitantly made her way towards Viola. Looking down upon her, the image was burned into her retinas. She looked so helpless like this. Her knee-length jacket was strewed open and the waistcoat beneath unbuttoned. The ruffled undershirt had clearly been ripped by the blade; the cotton bloodied and darkening. So she had to pin her? Easing down onto her knees, she unsurely pressed her hands to the woman's thighs. Like this? Her brow furrowed; surely not?

"Straddle her, just keep her down." Tomoe had returned with the blanket tightly wrapped around the rod's handle. With her hands protected from the scorching heat, she continued: "I need you to keep her arms down."

The tension steadily began to rise as the procedure was carried out. Natsuki w-was… 'Breath.' Pushing the cotton undershirt upwards to reveal the wound in all its glory, Natsuki had to take a moment. Up close within the dull illumination of the lantern, it looked sickly. N-no, she had no choice but to do as Tomoe commanded. Clasping her hands around Viola's wrists, she pressed them firmly down into the soil. There was no time for stupid thoughts and meaningless pauses. "I-I'm ready." She veered her gaze away from Tomoe who aimed the rod towards the Valkyrja's gut.

"Five, four, three, two…"

What felt like a millennium ticked by noiselessly. Pulse beating wildly, anxiety brimming and her muscles taut with tension, the word Natsuki feared sounded:

"One."

A guttural scream muffled against fabric as Natsuki was almost thrown off Viola immediately. Fingers almost losing grip, she instead brought the Valkyrja's forearms together above her head. But the smell…! The charring of flesh was a scent Natsuki feared she'd never forget. Still refusing to look at the cauterising process, she stared elsewhere. "W-when's i—" Interrupted, the rod was pressed back into the incised wound. The Valkyrja bellowed out in sheer agony, before throwing Natsuki off of herself this time. Winded, Natsuki scrambled to leap atop Viola. Rather, Tomoe's hand was before her face as she stood before her.

"Shiz—"

"I-it… it's sealed." Viola hissed out as she sat huddled. It burns! She couldn't touch it, else even her hand would be burnt. Flushed, hair dishevelled and breathing ragged, the nausea hit her like a horse.

"Is she going to be okay?" Natsuki asked Tomoe with concern. She had never seen Viola like this. She seemed so… so… young? Carefully approaching the Archvalkyrja, Natsuki was caught off guard when she launched herself at her. Stumbling onto the ground, Viola curled herself onto her and coiled her arms around her.

"H-help me… up."

Huh? Hands motioning behind Viola, Natsuki hovered her palms away from her back unsurely. B-but if she did she might h-

"D-o it, E-inherjar!"

Heaved to her feet, the Valkyrja swayed on her feet. "You can't stand." Natsuki remarked, securing her arm behind her. "Surely we should head b—"

"—No."

"I'll continue the salvaging." Tomoe reported, disappointed that Viola had sought out Natsuki rather than herself. "But first we should return to camp where it's safer." She'd feel far better if Viola was out of harm's way. Here with the Slaves it was too risky. "Natsuki, help me with her. I'll bring the supplies back later."

Viola's eyes flew open. Her slumber had been worthless and the dream… Oh, the dream. A shaky sigh released from her lips as she guided a hand towards her heart. Her clothes… when had…? Viola realised her jacket and waistcoat had been removed. All she wore was her trousers and ruffled shirt. The presence of another within this tent distracted her, however. It was Natsuki, she realised; the Einherjar twisting from the supplies to look at her worriedly.

"You're awake, how are you?" She held a damp towel and bandages.

Has she been looking after her this whole time? Viola's bleary gaze narrowed in study, tracing along her features. "Where is Tomoe?" She ignored the question as she tried to sit upwards. However, she paused when hands pressed down upon her shoulders. "Einh—"

"Shut up, already. Have you seen yourself, Viola? You're lucky you aren't dead!"

Pressed back down into the bedroll furs, Viola was about to resist angrily. But instead, the Einherjar's next statement froze her retaliation.

"You're afraid of getting close to others, aren't you? Ever since your Valk—"

"Do not dare speak of her so carelessly, Einherjar." Viola all but growled as she propped her forearm behind herself. Pushing upwards, she painfully lifted up. "Remove yourself!"

"And what? So you'll collapse?" Natsuki allowed the towel within her grip to fall as she grasped Viola's free wrist. The Valkyrja's hand immediately gripped her collar, causing their balance to tip forward. "Y-you can't even—" What? Partially straddling the stubborn woman, Natsuki grumbled under her breath. "Look what you did! I could've hurt you." Checking Viola's wound, she brought the damp towel eye-level. "Come on, I need to take care of your injury."

Viola was completely stunned by Natsuki's obvious transformation. When had Natsuki…? She could only observe the Einherjar gently dab the towel across her cauterised skin. Hissing in pain, she subdued a groan as nausea engulfed her. C-curse this… Releasing a strained breath from behind clenched teeth, anger brimmed over. But rather than seethe at her Einherjar, it was instead aimed at herself. How could she be so stupid? The Slave had been obscenely swift: One moment she was cutting the beast down, the next…? She was getting sloppy. "U-unhand me. Rem-ove yourself from me!" She berated, only now realising her wrist was still held.

"I've been terrified of you this whole time." Natsuki confessed abruptly as she lay the towel atop the wound. Forest-green eyes transferred to lock with crimson: "Frankly, I'm still scared." Her heart raced as she continued to loosely straddle Viola's thigh. Was the reason Natsuki had managed this because Viola is incapacitated? "I need to wrap bandages around you, so please don't fight me…"

She had no choice in this matter, did she? Viola sighed and slowly rose her hips as best she could. She felt ridiculous like this, nor was her wrist remaining held helped the situation. Ripping it from Natsuki's grip, she weakly glared at her as the clean bandages were applied.

"Is this right?" Natsuki indicated at the knot that securely fastened the white strips.

Giving them a languid examination, Viola found them to be just fine. "It is." She said as the Einherjar finally lifted away from her. At last the queasiness was fading as she transferred her observation to Natsuki. "How long have I been unconscious?"

"In and out?" Natsuki shrugged as she put the spare bandages and towel away. Crossing her legs, she sat beside Viola's bedroll. "We've been here for only a while."

"And Tomoe?"

"At the Ruins. She'll be returning at sun...set…" Natsuki's breath caught as her collar was once again grasped. What is it with—tugged downwards, the Einherjar froze as their noses brushed from close proximity. "S-she sai—"

"—Tell me, Einherjar, because quite bluntly, my patience is null: What did she say?"

"S-she said she'd return after Anchoring." Natsuki swallowed the nerves encroaching on her. But wait a minute, she frowned. "Ask me again, kindly."

"Excuse me?" Viola's tone dropped to ice. Why should she; the Archvalkyrja, no less, have to do such a thing? "Einh—"

"Einherjar my ass. Look at yourself, Viola! I'm sick of you refusing to listen!" Pulling out of the weakened Valkyrja's grip, Natsuki scolded her: "Why am I not allowed to mention your Valk—"

"Einh—"

"—No, Viola! You listen to me!" Anger getting the better of Natsuki, she pointed an index at her forehead's stitches. "You're terrified of people knowing who you really are; is that really it? Why, why, am I not allowed to mention your Valkyrja? What even happened to her? What happened to you? Viola, you don't even listen to Tomoe: Tomoe who I swear is in love with you! For fuck sake, does any of this even register?!"

The tent was awfully silent after Natsuki's outburst. So much that Natsuki feared Viola would never interrupt it. They remained locked in an intense staring contest as Natsuki's chest heaved. S-she… had she said all of that? "T-the witch." She kept their stare trained. "She warned me that someone would get hurt and my path woul—"

"—How kind of you to assume what I am, Einherjar." A shiver ran down Natsuki's spine upon the Valkyrja's words. "As I already said… I will reveal more when you are ready. Do not test my patience. You are either very brave to challenge me when I am injured; ...or incredibly stupid."

Twisting around, Natsuki refused to look at the Archvalkyrja as she panicked. She's right, isn't she? "When… when will I… be?" She forced the question from her lips, the tone sounding especially unnatural. She hated how she felt around this woman: how could Viola have such a profound effect on her? Natsuki wanted nothing more than to… to what? The question remained inside her mind for the longest time: What did she want?

After what felt like a century, Natsuki apprehensively returned her gaze to Viola. She was asleep. Releasing a breath she hadn't noticed she held, Natsuki hesitantly slid closer. Why is Viola like this…? Touching along ruffled cotton, Natsuki paused upon her next discovery. A prevalent scar ran vertically along Viola's left breast. The flesh was dented almost as thou—o-oh. Natsuki shot her hand away. Viola had said she had been impaled through the heart. This was her death wound, wasn't it?

S-she shouldn't have seen that.

Though, as Natsuki panicked, she didn't notice the Archvalkyrja awaken.

Why is this Einherjar so noisy? Annoyed, Viola stared at her, evidently clueless to what had just transpired. "Keep quiet. I am trying to sleep." Watching Natsuki freeze up, her gaze wandered with mild disinterest. "Sleep, or remove yourself."

"T-tell me this, first…"

An impatient sigh released from Viola's lips. What is it now?

"Is the reason you refuse to open up because you're terrified of us experiencing what you did?"

What? Dark crimson narrowed at the bold question. Her Einherjar was a treasure trove of questions today, wasn't she? "Silen—"

"—your tongue?" Natsuki countered. "Hush, Einherjar? Just because you scare me doesn't mean I can't read y—"

"—Why is it then, that it is I who has the answers to end your suffering, Einherjar?" Viola spat angrily. "Disrespect me and I shall increase that tenfold!"

"You're incredibly lucky that the Archvalkyrja didn't sustain an infection." Helene chided the two Einherjar once Viola was safely put to bed. "But you did well, I suppose. There wasn't much else you could do in the middle of nowhere." With just a cauterising rod, no less! "She shall remain here for a week while she recovers from the brunt of the injury. You're both welcome to visit during appropriate hours."

Once shooed from the facility, both Einherjar exchanged glances.

The previous hours had been exhausting. Viola for the most part had been totally quiet. As such, Tomoe had taken command over their trip which had been a nightmare. With Viola unable to carry anything, they had to share the load between them: All the while helping her walk.

"Bed sounds like paradise right now…" Natsuki mumbled tiredly as they started to climb the metallic stairs. "...How you deal with Viola is beyond me." Hopefully she wouldn't have any nightmares for a while. Natsuki would gratefully accept that respite.

"I don't."

Exiting the stairs, they took the servants' corridor towards their quarters. It was a relief to return to the Palace. Natsuki thought she'd never miss the place, but here she was. She supposed it was home to some degree—kind of. Though… frowning as they bypassed a sudden group of maids, she halted in her tracks. "What's going on?" Another gathering of servants rushed past them until the corridor fell silent. Glancing at Tomoe, the other Einherjar merely shrugged before brushing past her. Eh, maybe she was just overthinking things.

"When I was first chosen as her Einherjar:" Tomoe started as they trekked up the servant staircase. "She was even worse back then because she was mourning her own Valkyrja."

Huh? "How so?"

"Nightmares, accusations, bouts of anger." Unpocketing the quarter keys, they jangled loudly as Tomoe inserted one into their door. "She once thought I was someone else." Why had she? Tomoe couldn't quite remember. Pushing the door open, she mused thoughtfully as she slipped into the quarters. Hadn't it been… Doesn't matter. "She was never stable, but she has improved."

Someone else? "You seem so confident about that." Natsuki eyed Tomoe warily who headed for the supplies. "She never tells me anything. Did she ever tell you?"

"'Course not." Tomoe chuckled wryly. Whose to care how an Einherjar feels? Let alone a servant to their master. "Just stop spouting nonsense. I don't care what you told her last night, but during the whole trip she looked ready to flay you alive."

"Don't I know it." Natsuki grumbled under her breath. Heading for the window, she noticed that a fresh jug of water was on the counter. "Do the servants have access here?"

"Yes. That's why the key room is beside the servants' wing."

Made sense. Taking one of the basins, Natsuki filled it with a portion of the water. Where are the candlesticks… she didn't particularly feel like sleeping in her room without light. Call her childish, but frankly she'd prefer her hallucinatory beasts going away. Hopefully this will work. "Does Viola tend to get hurt like this?"

"Rarely. I've only seen her get wounded when something's… wrong." Tomoe eased an item from the supplies in order to examine it. This was a book which she had successfully Anchored inside the Ruins. Our Lady's Strife, huh…? Opening it, her expression scrunched with concern. That statue? This called for research. "Shizuru tends to get herself hurt when something's on her mind." She shrugged. Pretty normal when you think about it. "Remember to check your clothing for Slave blood. I'm sure you understand what it does."

Once that was all said and done, Natsuki was alone in her bedroom. The azure hue of the horizon leached into the room. Even though it was increasingly irritating her, she was apprehensive to shut the curtains. She supposed she had a while until she was to sleep… Besides, she was still checking her clothing.

Stripping off her waistcoat, she stretched out her arms. Within the blue illumination, she couldn't see any staining. Which in itself was miraculous indeed. Examining inside the clothing, this was still the case. However, upon further inspection she caught sight of a sliver at the front. Huh… What should she do with this? Throwing it aside onto the floor for now, she next removed her ruffled shirt. The cold chilled against her bare skin immediately, forming goosebumps. Did it have to be cold though? She shivered, flicking the ruffles of her shirt in bemusement.

Fiddling with her linen brassiere, she sighed. Natsuki supposed she better get this done with. Turning around so candlelight lit her front, she inspected her stomach. She still couldn't quite believe how well her wound had healed. There was terrible scarring on her gut. But honestly she cared less about that. Viola's wound instead flashed within her mind. Still though… how does someone survive their heart getting impaled…? It wasn't like she could deny it anymore: she had witnessed it herself now. Strictly speaking she herself should be long dead and buried. Her intestines would've been sliced and Gods' know what else. Removing the linen and dropping both it and the shirt, she curled her arms around herself.

Even though twelve hours had passed, Natsuki was still having difficulty comprehending it. Viola had been injured so fast. It hadn't given Natsuki the time to understand what had happened. Let alone to process how this would affect their relationship. Staring into the flame, Natsuki's face scrunched in thought. Relationship? Though, again… the witch.

The question had been creeping from the back of her mind ever since: Should she bite the bullet and get closer to Viola? Perhaps she's insane? Was it concerning that she wanted to see Viola improve? The… the Valkyrja is a murderer! However… isn't Natsuki also? She had indirectly ended the life of that Slave which Viola had killed. N-no, that didn't count…!

...Did it?

Morals clashing, Natsuki felt conflicted as she stood partially naked within the bedroom. Why couldn't she just stop caring? What Tomoe had been telling her would drive anyone else away. Why was it different for her? She's… sitting herself down on the bed, a horrible thought came to mind. Was Natsuki was falling in love?

W-why?! This was Viola! Half the time that mad woman gave her anxiety attacks! No. No. NO. Couldn't she just forget this? Just… Clasping her hands to her face, Natsuki leaned her elbows into her thighs. It was, wasn't it? Drawing out a sigh, Natsuki's breath hitched. W-why couldn't s-omething just... why couldn't it just go right for once? Why did it have to be her? Why?!

N/A: For some reason a few days ago I got a writing drive I haven't experienced since 2009. It was extremely weird to just keep typing without any infuriating blocks. Didn't stop me from thinking this chapter's crap though, lol. Anyway, December's going to be a big month for me: I'll be updating a dozen stories later this month. Mentioning December, I was actually going to upload this chapter on Christmas. Since it's been a while since I last updated Cyne, I decided against that.

Stories to expect this month: Renascence Redux (Ao3), Gendarmerie Redux (Ao3) and Entwined Empyrean.

I may have more stories lined up; depends on my motivation.

Until next time!