Blæc Brūn
(Black Dusk)

Swerving past a volley of arrows, the phoenix swooped down in a frightful display of power. Enshrouded within soot, a piercing shriek bellowed from its gullet. A sonic boom formed inside its maw; the squall smashing through powdery blackness then jetting skywards.

The defenders yelled out in surprise as a tower was blasted by the fiery monster. Many tumbled to the floor in shock, while others screamed in terror. "W-what is this thing?!" The Captain of the Guard screeched over the quaking of stone. This beast had ploughed a hole straight through the tower by just squawking at it?! Lifting her visor to see properly, she swiftly shot it back down. H-here it comes!

Natsuki, who had arrived with arrows only seconds prior, was shoved aside by the Captain. "What the he—?!" Natsuki shrieked in accusation, the air slamming from her lungs as her back smashed against stone. Speech cut and her back against the damaged tower, Natsuki stared as rubble crashed before her. H-had the Captain ju—

"The fire has jumped into the bailey! We need more water down here!" — "Chie? Where's Chie?!" — "Look out, it's coming back!"

Chaos rained down upon Guadeloupe as the phoenix spun within the horizon. Projectiles uselessly bounced off its wings or disintegrated within flame. A mournful cry pierced the heavens as golden flames rippled; the ember feathers transforming into ebony. Natsuki, who was stuck in place, realised something: This monster felt exactly like an Anchor. Were the two connec—"V-Viola?!" She threw the arrows down and twisted around breathlessly, searching the anarchic battlements desperately. She didn't understand why, but she needed to find Viola.

At that moment, the Captain hurled herself from the tower debris. "Stupid birdbrain!" She shook her fist towards the phoenix, not having noticed the stunned Einherjar beside her. Slightly dented plate armour rattling, she lifted her visor and bellowed a scream: "PULL IT DOWN! FIRE THE BALLISTAS! I DON'T CARE HOW! DEEEESTROY IIIIT!" Spinning around, Haruka directed a finger towards Natsuki. "You! Einherjar, bring the pitch barrels to the ballistas! We're going blast it out of the sky!"

But she nee—Natsuki stared at the armoured blonde distraughtly before kicking herself out of it. Rushing back to the drop site, she swiftly searched for the pitch barrels. Luckily she quickly recognised one, and heaved it onto its side. The phoenix was overhead but wasn't attacking. Why? It almost looked as though it was searching for something—or someone.

Ballista bolts soured the skies, but the fiery demon evaded every shot. Ammunition running sparse, desperation quickly gripped the Palace. Still the phoenix flew overhead: Searching—hunting.

"...W-when a Valkyrja dies, their Key falls into bloodthirsty rage." Viola was eased upwards by Tomoe from a nearby merlon. "Humanity cannot kill a God."

"Shizuru…? What are you…" Tomoe's question fell on deaf ears as the Archvalkyrja pushed away from her. What is she… No. "Shizuru!" She wasn't seriously going t—"SHIZURU!" Lunging a hand for her, Tomoe's fingers grazed through tawny strands. It was far too late, for Shizuru had already jumped the battlements. Dismayed, Tomoe stared at the spot the Valkyrja had been moments prior. "S-Shiz…" Lurching for the merlon, she peered down the perilous drop. Amazed, she watched as a monumental lindwurm materialised beneath the Archvalkyrja. Relief consumed Tomoe's soul as she sighed.

"The Archvalkrja's fallen!" — "W-wait… w-what's that?!"

Viola's what…? Natsuki froze beside the first ballista. Abandoning the pitch barrel, she frantically searched the outer curtain below. W-what's… that…? Lips falling agape, Natsuki's gaze languidly rose with the lindwurm. The serpent was immense! H-how is it… floating?! Taking a step backwards, Natsuki yelped as she tripped over the barrel. "Viola?!" She roared in absolute confusion. The Archvalkyrja caught wind of her and their gaze leisurely locked. "W-what's that?!" She accused, unable to fathom the correct term. What even is this thing?! A dragon, a snake?!

"Natsuki." Viola murmured atop the wingless lindwurm as it hovered close to the battlements. "You must find Tomoe." Reaching for the battlements, she outstretched an arm. Fingertips grazing along the Einherjar's jaw, she said: "Stay by her side… Haruka." Viola turned her attention to the Captain of the Guard who appeared just as bewildered. "Order your forces to retreat. Only the Valkyrja can put down Kagutsuchi."

Kaguts-waa? Natsuki's face scrunched up in confusion as she glanced towards the Captain. Leaning stiffly against the battlement merlon, Natsuki shivered as Viola's nails brushed her skin. As quickly as the odd sensation formed, it dispersed as the Valkyrja eased away. A forlorn cry echoed above the raging forest fire, drawing their attention away.

"Seriously." Haruka grumbled as she crossed her arms. Dancing her fingers against her couter piece in thought, she then grabbed a nearby archer. "Sound the bell. We're retreating to the inner bailey!"

"V-Viola." Natsuki made the motion to speak, but was tugged back by the Captain. "W-wha—get off me." She growled.

"Do you have any idea what's about to happen?"

"No?"

"Shizuru!" Tomoe came rushing up to them, having finally pushed through their forces. "What are you doing?! Surely there's another way!" Hands clutching stone, Tomoe made a move to reach Viola. Rather, fingers slipped inside her cuirass' backpiece. Enraged, the Einherjar twisted within Haruka's hold. "Release me!"

"I can't do that." The Captain uncharacteristically murmured softly as the bell rang throughout the Palace.

"Tomoe, this is not goodbye."

"How do you know that?! You're weak, Shizuru!" The Archvalkyrja stared silently as a whisper of something crossed her fatigue-stricken features. "Kiyohime will kill you!" Panicking as the lindwurm started edging away, Tomoe struggled within the Captain's hold. "Will you listen to me?! Unhand me already!"

"Tomoe, it's no use, is it?" Natsuki muttered as she tore herself away from Haruka. "...She always gets the last say."

As the Palace forces retreated from the battlements, Viola turned her attention to the skies. The phoenix was circling overhead. Was it awaiting her? Taking a final look towards the Palace, Viola's heart sank. Maybe this is the end? Would she fail like her predecessors? It seemed the case as her gaze transferred to the Sprites Forest. An inferno had overtaken the treeline: Ash rolled the skies, blanketing the azura horizon into deep grey. How long did they have until the firestorm engulfed Guadeloupe and Wind? Bells reverberated throughout the coastal city. Chaos was undoubtedly sparking throughout the Capital. She didn't have long.

"Kiyohime." The great wingless serpent dipped down, allowing her to set her feet down upon the ground. Once standing, Viola directed her Key's attention towards the sky. "The Lord of Inferno has been emancipated. He must be annihilated." The white snake lifted its head towards the phoenix, flicking its tongue out. "I will be fine here. I have an Anchor." The Key hovered around her before jettisoning upwards. Dirt and cinders were propelled aside by its hulking frame.

Hooking her fingers around her chained necklace, Viola pulled the Anchor from beneath her cuirass. The kaleidoscopic crystal flickered within emberlight as she pincered it between her thumb and middle digit. Removing the chain from around her neck, she rose it. The Anchor glowed brightly with disturbing power. This was dangerous; she didn't have the energy, but what choice did she have?

Guiding the Anchor towards her bosom, artificial ardor filled her soul. Now. Unsheathing her sabre, Viola adjusted her grip on the crystal. Its tip balanced perfectly within her palm before rising—chain included. "Kiyohime!" Arcing her blade skywards, it phased through the Anchor. Emerald sorcery rocketed from it, billowing around her with destructive power.

Skywards, the lindwurm's body tautened; shooting like an arrow towards the phoenix, its venomous maw opened. Four terrifying fangs revealed before gorging into fiery flesh. On land, the Archvalkyrja staggered in agony as Kiyohime was partially charred. Could Kiyohime withstand a boundless Key? Hand free from her Anchor, she pressed its heel to her temple in discomfort. Hel if she knows. A pained sigh released from her lips.

Kiyohime was constricting around Kagutsuchi's frame. Obsidian fire drenched the lindwurm, frying scales to a crisp; yet still the Key persisted. An enraged scream tore from the phoenix before masticating the serpent. Crimson blood spurted violently from the serpent's middle, cascading downwards to the Palace below. Rage submerged Kiyohime into a slaughter. Strangling tremendously, she didn't cease until a sickening crack sounded.

The phoenix squalled in distress as its body shuddered from the extreme domination. Tighter the lindwurm cruelly garrotted until the mighty Kagutsuchi slipped from her grasp. Plunging downwards, he slammed into the inferno's canopy.

S-she… Viola meanwhile took a step backwards. Sabre slipping from her fingertips, the blade uselessly fell to the floor. The jade radiance flickered around her. H-her energy was dispersing. Feeling as though she was burning alive internally, her knees slammed into mud. "S-Shizuru!" Stare pulling up, Viola's attention distractedly wandered towards the Palace. There, by the gatehouse's portcullis, Tomoe was held back by Natsuki. Right... s-he... Heaving back onto unsteady feet, the Archvalkyrja leaned down for her sabre.

A traumatic roar reverberated from the forest above the firestorm. The boundless Key was obviously alive. Giving a final glance towards her Einherjar, the Valkyrja limped towards the forestedge. There was no way she could access Kagutsuchi from here. Smoke ploughed within her lungs, causing her to heave. Stepping backwards, she shouted into the heavens: "Ki-y-yohime!"

The lindwurm plunged into the inferno, causing charred trees to fall in her wake. But still the fire was spreading. They needed to control it before it reached Wind. Summoning her Anchor, the crystal returned to her palm. She had a single chance. Equipping her Anchor, it clinked against her cuirass as she observed a small opening by the phoenix. The Archvalkyrja took the initiative.

"W-what is she doing?!" Tomoe yelled angrily. Relentlessly she struggled within Natsuki's hold. They were still by the open portcullis. "Let me go!" An army of soldiers bypassed them with pails of water and moss. Why did Natsuki fucking care suddenly?! "You're dead if she dies!"

"No shit?" This woman was driving Natsuki insane. More soldiers passed them, these ones brandishing spades and wheelbarrows. Were they going to fight the fire? Struggling with Tomoe who started to sink to the floor, Natsuki distractedly looked at her. "Tomoe?"

Armour rattling, the elder Einherjar pushed from her grip. Spinning, she faced Natsuki's side and hooked a knee into her middle. Slamming Natsuki downwards, she abandoned the winded woman.

W-wha—heaving for air, Natsuki woozily watched as Tomoe bolted for the forest. Why did this entire Palace have a death wish?!

Tremendous power stunned Tomoe in place as she halted by the inferno's edge. There, past the treeline she took witness as Viola stood before Kagutsuchi. From here she could sense the Archvalkyrja's overflowing strength merging together. It was unbearable. Sinking to her knees, the Einherjar's palms clasped to her temples. The spiritual power drilled within her mind, splitting reality and illusion in half. H-her Valkyrja's pinnacle of existence wa—"Shizuru!" Tomoe howled through the blaze separating her.

Thenceforth, the Archvalkyrja lifted her blade aloft. An indescribable intensify ripped the atmosphere as her sabre plunged downwards. Anchor whirling with ardor, Viola sank her blade into Kagutsuchi's skull. Blood spewed from its cranium like a bizarre fountain. Mixing with fire, the Valkyrja was soaked. Then—terror. A faltering scream belonging neither to Kagutsuchi or Kiyohime tore the fiery skies.

Time stood still for Tomoe who didn't notice Natsuki stumble to her side. They watched as hellfire dominated their Valkyrja, until… nothing at all. An otherworldly wind swept the Sprites Forest, diminishing the firestorm. Within the forest's edge, Kagutsuchi's desecrated skeleton lay curled around Viola. Kiyohime, was nowhere to be seen.

"V-Viola…?" Natsuki lumbered on over to the Archvalkyrja.

Somehow, as if the Gods' themselves had protected her, Viola hadn't been charred. She was however, incredibly injured. The gash along Viola's forehead had somehow become unstitched. It was as though it hadn't been sutured at all. Kneeling over her, Natsuki delicately rolled Viola onto her back.

She wasn't waking up. Something was wrong. Natsuki enclosed her palm atop Viola's closed eyes. Wiping the blending blood away, her breath hitched. N-no. If she's dead, she herself should cease to be? Hand sliding downward, she rested it atop the woman's cuirass. Fingers brushing against the Anchor, a painful and all consuming spark shot through her limb. Shooting her hand away, a pained sigh released from her lips. W-what?

"The Archvalkyrja's this way!"

Somehow, Natsuki knew what was wrong. She darted her hands to the Valkyrja's shoulders. Unfastening the cuirass from the shoulders to sides, a dread set in realisation: Beneath the iron, Viola's under-tunic was soaked. It was her cauterised wound, wasn't it…? Holding her breath within the tension, Natsuki slowly prised the plate away from her chest. U-ugh… the scent of blood was unbearable!

Sure enough, the mahogany fabric had two large blemishes which quickly grew. Her cauterised wound had reopened, but so had the… her killing blow? "V-Viola." She mumbled, shaking the woman's shoulder. "Vio—" Eased away from the Archvalkyrja, time froze for the young Einherjar. Wha-t's happening…?

What she didn't realise is that a soldier carried her away.


"Interesting… all of her previous wounds have split open." Helene was slouched over Viola who had been placed onto a surgery table. "It's almost as though she hadn't had them treated…" Turning her attention to her visitors, a sigh released from her lips. "You two better behave yourselves. My colleagues will throw you out faster than you could comprehend."

Natsuki and Tomoe anxiously sat on a nearby bench.

The moment the flames had mysteriously dispersed, they had been lugged to the infirmary. It had gone so quickly that they were still in shock. What had happened? Last they were aware, Viola had executed Kagutsuchi and his fire should've annihilated her. Confusingly, she wasn't singed. How did any of this make sense?

"...She's losing a lot of blood. Irina, bring me the needles, thread, scarpel and cloth. We don't have much time left."

As time clicked by overbearingly, the two Einherjar were worse for wear. Helene had scarcely noticed it, but Irina had. They weren't well, were they? Was it because of the Archvalkyrja's spiritual level flatlining? She looked to the duo who were restless. Irina was yet to get to know Natsuki, but Tomoe? She looked dreadful. The elder Einherjar was looking elsewhere—she had been this entire time. Tomoe looked as though she suffered from a mysterious ailment. Natsuki too…

"...Those two also need help."

Natsuki meanwhile was lost within her own world. Feeling Tomoe's cuirass suddenly pressing into her side, she flinched. Darting her eyes to the armoured woman, Natsuki stared in confusion. Never had she seen Tomoe like this: she appeared so weak. "Are you alright?" She mumbled quietly to the elder who struggled to sit back straight. "It's the spiritual energy, isn't it?" Violet-steel locked with her jade gaze, silencing her. S-she… huh?

"I don't know… probably?" Tomoe mumbled as she languidly removed a gauntlet. Throwing the piece aside on their bench, she slid her palm against her face. The protective glove covering her skin did very little to soothe her fried nerves. "I don't understand why it isn't affecting you."

"You misunderstand. It is."

"Not spiritually."

Wasn't it? Natsuki was anxious for Viola—she truly was. But she hadn't any idea what spiritual weakness felt like. Was she experiencing it currently? Honestly she hadn't a clue. "What does it feel like?"

"Like the world is crushing you. There's never any hope when this happens. There's only suffering until it ends."

Hm. Natsuki's gaze swept to the Archvalkyrja who Helene slouched over still. Armour pierces and clothing surrounded the medical scientist who worked away swiftly. Natsuki was… what? Afraid for Viola? She didn't understand a thing that had happened! Yet… the Viola that she had witnessed recently was different. How? But… the scent of blood wasn't relenting. Natsuki feared she would never forget the smell. Lifting her hands in examination, she stared at her bloodstained skin. S-she… Panicking, she slid her palms against her trousers. "W-what happens if…" The words slipped from her lips before she had the chance to think: "...she doesn't wake up?" Natsuki stared at the prone Archvalkyrja atop the surgery table. A suture needle was currently threading Viola's side back together. Even from here, the smell was oppressive. She felt sick just watching, especially when Woods' pulled away from Viola with a blood drenched cloth. "Ugh…"

Twisting, Natsuki turned her back on Tomoe so she faced horizontally. Clasping her palms to her face, she dipped downwards. She could no longer stomach this. Watching Viola destroy something so monstrous, only to be severely wounded was… What? What did it mean?! Why did she care?!

After what felt like an insufferable millennium, Helene eased away from Viola. "I've finished stitching up her side. I'm moving onto the breast." She saw fatty tissue peeking from the large incision. "It looks in bad shape… It will be difficult to stitch it up as the scar tissue is so delicate. I may have to sacrifice some of its shape." Reaching for a cloth, Helene gently dabbed more blood which oozed from the injury.

"You don't think you'll…" Irina hesitantly looked at Tomoe and Natsuki. "...have to do a mastectomy?"

"The shock might kill her if I did that." They only had so much technology here. The machinery which was active around them was working thanks to years of study. If they did have more available, perhaps she could perform miracles? Closing her eyes briefly, Helene sighed before leaning back over Viola. Gently, she moved the Archvalkyrja's Anchor away from her left breast. They couldn't even remove this, else she'd die.

Natsuki had no clue what they spoke about, and she knew she wouldn't want to know. Glancing over her shoulder, she looked to Tomoe whose side slumped against the wall. Was she conscious? Hesitantly she stretched a hand towards her shoulder. "Tomo—"

"—Don't speak to me."

Breath catching in her throat, Natsuki rolled her fingers to her palm. Letting her arm limp into her lap, her gaze dropped to the tiled floor instead. Viola will be alright, won't she? Those two were stitching her back together, so surely…? Something wasn't right. But what was that? Natsuki's leg bobbed with apprehension as she looked back to Viola.

"I've found a section I can suture. The blood vessels are also fine."

Nervous emeralds immediately veered from the sight.

Another monumental wait gave way. This time, the surgery was complete.

Lifting her bloody gloves, Helene sighed a breath of relief. "Only time will tell now." Irina, fetch me fresh rags and a basin. We'll clean her up, dress her and wheel her into the ward for recovery."

Natsuki's gaze slowly picked up from the floor. Heaving up onto her feet, she lumbered towards the surgery table. "H-how is sh—"

"—Don't get too close." Irina cautioned her, Helene having left the room momentarily. "You were close to the fire yourself. The particles could get into her system and cause more complications."

She had no idea what Irina was talking about. Clenching her teeth behind sealed lips, Natsuki briefly glared. Silently, she observed Viola's body instead. Her once cauterised wound was now stitched. Her breast though… Natsuki looked upon her bare torso in conflict. Stitches ran from the top of the breast to the nipple. It looked like Helene had only just managed to save the nipple. The stitches circled its bottom portion. The forehead meanwhile, was nicely stitched back up.

Tomoe silently came to Natsuki's side to observe her as well. Natsuki was unable to fathom what was going through the elder Einherjer's face. A multitude of expressions flew across Tomoe's face before she wobbled towards the exit. "I need air." She mumbled.

"You should too, Natsuki." Irina motioned a hand towards the door after a few more minutes. "Keep an eye on Tomoe, she looks like she's breaking down."

Natsuki sighed. She supposed Irina's right. Heading for the exit, she entered the hallway. The door into the infirmary was ajar—no doubt Tomoe hadn't shut it. Through it, she could hear signs of life. Heading towards it, she grasped its handle and peered through the gap. Numerous soldiers were here, having received treatment or awaiting it.

When entering, many of them looked her way silently. Feeling on edge, Natsuki bypassed them and climbed the stairs. What was that about? Were they hoping Viola was awake or something? Now within the servants' wing, Natsuki's gaze swept across either end of the corridor. Empty. If she was Tomoe, where would she hide? She honestly had no clue.

Up on the surface, security was tight. There were knights and archers patrolling everywhere. Surely someone's seen Tomoe? "Have you seen the other Einherjar?" She asked a random knight who shook his head. Hm. Slipping past him within the tight corridor, she headed towards their quarters.

Arriving by the door, Natsuki hesitantly touched the handle. It wasn't locked. Tomoe either wanted to be found or was being sloppy. Pushing it open slowly, she carefully peered into the dark room. There's no one inside, but Viola's bedroom door is open. Shutting the entrance subtly, Natsuki crept towards this room. It still amazed her how ascetic Viola's living style was sometimes. Their quarters had the bare minimum whilst other high ranking officials lived like Kings. Or rather, was something sinister at play here instead? Natsuki's boot landed upon a floorboard which creaked loudly.

Wincing, Natsuki froze within Viola's bedroom beside the open balcony entrance. Just feet away, Tomoe hauled herself up from a seat, handaxe lifting. They stared at one another intensely, before Tomoe immediately lost interest.

"You never know when to quit, do you?" Tomoe muttered, placing her handaxe upon the outdoor table. Sitting herself back down, she propped an elbow to the armrest. Jaw supported within her hand, she stared up at the Moon.

"You left the door unlocked, you know?" Natsuki headed out onto the balcony. "Where's the key?" The elder Einherjar unpocketed it, throwing it onto the table carelessly. "Has this ever happened before?"

"Be more specific."

Natsuki sighed. "Has a Valkyrja ever been injured like this? How was she not touched by the flames, yet her old wounds burst open?"

Hadn't Tomoe already told her she knows very little? She stared over her shoulder to her blankly. Much to her chagrin, Natsuki then sat herself down beside her. Ugh, now what?

"You saw it—the green shimmering—what was that?"

"Spiritual energy at its strongest. Leave me alone before I make you."

Eyeing her, Natsuki's mind was set. "Remember to lock the door." She stood up and headed for the exit.


"The Valkyrja Saga? I can translate it, but it will take time."

The royal scholar's office was piled to the brim by books. Dark oak bookcases lined every available space the walls offered. When there weren't tomes, there were instead materials and tools. Weren't these for alchemy? Natsuki felt overwhelmed within this room. Somehow it was grander than the forest witch's library. "Helene said Viola is in a coma." Natsuki told Shiro whose spectabled gaze turned to her. "Maybe that book knows how to deal with it?" She shrugged.

It was some hours after the battle with Kagutsuchi. Ever since returning to the infirmary, Natsuki's mind had been wild. She had been the one to suggest looking at the Valkyrja Saga. Though, it seems this scholar was the only one within the Palace who was able to translate it.

He wore a cream tailcoat with a white waistcoat beneath. His collar was a total mess with no neckerchief in sight. In fact, the scholar's hair was even unkempt as he took the book gently. "It may very well. I've taken numerous looks at the Valkyrja Saga before, but only briefly." Turning to its contents—Natsuki was amazed it had one, honestly—Shiro, studied it. "Spiritual Maladies, there we go…" Heaving the pages to the correct location, he slowly read a few paragraphs.

Peering over his shoulder, Natsuki's face scrunched up. Was this truly their language? There were letters she had never seen before, let alone could she understand a thing. "You can read this?"

"Quite well, but fluently? Not so much." The scholar chuckled. "Here's something interesting." He pointed to a particular paragraph. "Prismatic crystals taken afar… from the Heart of… something. Archvalkyrja chosen by Suihouhime fell first… something, something… soul mad beneath the Sun…?"

"Soul mad beneath the Sun?" Natsuki spoke finally. "Suihouhime?"

"I don't know. A metaphor, maybe?" Tracking an index back to the name, he explained: "Suihouhime is the Crystal Princess of Hel. Over the years I've theorised that the Anchors somehow relate to her. These prismatic crystals may very well be Anchors as she is also a Key Goddess of death, afterlife and omens."

Huh? The Spymaster spoke about these Keys before. W-wait. The snake that Viola controlled—that was her Key, wasn't it? Lips slipping open, Natsuki stared at the yellowed pages of the tome. "What's Viola's Key?"

"Kiyohime." Shiro heaved the book back to the contents. "Key… Key… Key…" He murmured in fruitless search before finally finding it. Again he strained to the correct location. A huge archive of information greeted them, each Key receiving decades—if not centuries—worth of knowledge. "Kiyohime. Goddess of Wurms, curses and deceit."

Natsuki frowned. Wurms? Deceit? "W-what's… a wurm?" She felt stupid asking such a thing.

"A great fearsome serpent that usually has no wings. There are quite a few types." The scholar explained, reaching behind him for another book titled Mysterious Entities: Monsters and Witchcraft. "In the far East, they tend to have legs. The cold North however, they have monstrous horns littering their body. Unfortunately, we know very little of the southern wurms. Here though, they have smooth scaled bodies with deadly fangs. The type of wurm you saw is of estern descent—a lindwurm." Opening the book to the correct page, he offered it to the Einherjar who took it.

Upon these pages were sketches of these wurms. "So… a Key changes its appearance depending on the Valkyrja's location?"

"And their ethnicity." Shiro nodded.

Lindwurm… Miðgarðsormr… lóng… Ayida-Weddo. Natsuki stared at the names, wondering how the latter three were even pronounced. "But how do these relate to comas?" She raised her head, placing the book down upon the desk. "When that bird thing exploded, Viola should've been vaporised."

"Across the world, wurms are historically known to have elemental powers. With this, it can be assumed Kiyohime protected the Archvalkyrja from Kagutsuchi's fire." Shiro gazed upon the Valkyrja Saga once more, searching through Kiyohime's section. "I believe she's currently within a psychic coma—or something similar. Witches' fall into psychic comas—known as spiritual hibernation—due to releasing too much spiritual energy. During their coma, they slowly regain their spiritual energy from their surroundings."

"So Viola will eventually wake up?"

"I don't think so. Though she is wearing her Anchor—she is, isn't she?" He frowned with concern. When Natsuki nodded, he hummed. "Hm, well…" He brushed his fingers to his lips in thought. "The problem is, Anchors don't necessarily store the precise spiritual energy a Valkyrja requires. Rather, they keep the harvested souls contained appropriately so they can't cause complications."

"Complications?" Natsuki echoed.

"Soul madness." Lowering his fingertips to his chin, Shiro mused. "We need something to awaken her. Something that will boost her spiritual energy." Drawing his chair from the desk, he eased to his feet. "If you allow it, I would like to examine the Archvalkyrja."


Machines hummed above the light chatter inside the underground laboratory. As Natsuki passed through with Shiro, she caught sight of Chie. She stood beside the annoying Queen's maid. What was her name, again? Either way, she was discussing something with the Knight-Commander whose arm was in a sling. Was she injured? Wait, Natsuki could've swore she remembered something about her being shouted during the battle. Oh well, it wasn't important.

Bypassing a bunch of wounded soldiers still awaiting an appointment, Natsuki strode into the infirmary corridor. Standing by the door, she remained there hesitantly before Shiro glanced at her questioningly.

"Are you alright?"

It's just technology that's keeping Viola alive. Natsuki tried to remind herself of this, but it was incredibly hard. Why did it still make her apprehensive? What in Gods' name caused her to feel this way? Was it truly like how Helene explained it? As long as there was an understandable connection, she could comprehend technology. But the moment the technology leaped generations, she was clueless. Lights were straightforward, even if she didn't understand exactly what electricity w—a sigh released from Natsuki's lips. "Sorry." She spoke gruffly, forcing herself to open the door and head inside.

This section where the operation had taken place was vacant. Luckily, the surgery table had already been scrubbed clean and not a hint of blood was evident. This didn't help to calm her nerves anywhat, unfortunately. Teetering on the edge, Natsuki could only follow after Shiro who headed for the recovery ward. Or, maybe it wasn't the technology agitating her, but Viola? After all, the seemingly true Viola had shown herself at last. Though… Natsuki halted inside the corridor, her expression scrunching up. 'Kiyohime. Goddess of Wurms, curses and deceit.' Wait, of deceit? Why didn't this click before?! "Wai—" Too late, for Shiro had already entered the ward.

A multitude of scenarios sparked within Natsuki's head as she compelled herself inside. Had Viola tricked her all along? N-no! Why couldn't her stupid head just make up its mind?! Standing before Viola's bed, her eyes swept the machinery suspiciously. There were wires everywhere! Why? Suddenly, she noticed they weren't the only occupiers of the room. Helene sat at her desk within the chamber's centre, staring at her oddly. The scientist seemingly read what was wrong, and stood.

"Natsuki, come here for a moment." She summoned her with a waft of her fingers.

Given no other logical choice, the Einherjar did so. Awkwardly standing beside Helene's desk, Natsuki's gaze wandered back to Viola. She was still totally unconscious, but at least she had been dressed. "How's… Viola?" She mumbled quietly, suddenly feeling fatigued. Shiro came to a stop beside her.

"Stable." She turned her attention to Shiro. "Takamura, I assume I know why you're here? To examine the Archvalkyrja?" Receiving a nod, she slid a roll of parchment towards him. "Read this before starting. Natsuki, follow me."

Guided towards Viola's bedside, Natsuki was introduced to a plethora of medical equipment. Every machine here functioned to keep her "stable"? One had a screen with a jolting line that was insistently noisey. Natsuki wished it'd shut up. This strange, droning device was also connected to Viola; white tubes tucking beneath her ruffled shirt.

"This." Helene gestured to the machine, settling her hand atop it: "Is called a heart monitor. It gives us an endless status to her condition. If her heart is failing, we will be warned beforehand."

How did Viola even have a heart, it had been destroyed? "I still don't understand how she has one." She sighed, causing the elder woman to quirk a brow. "I don't understand anything." Viola's Valkyrja had healed it, but how does one fix something that no longer exists? Just like these machines, she understood null. "My head's spinning." Suddenly, a chair was dragged over, and Natsuki warily looked to Helene. Wha—oh. The scientist's hand landed onto her shoulder, and she was eased down onto it.

"I will just say then, that although you don't understand what these do, they're keeping her alive." Unfortunately it's very common for people to not understand the technology Helene uses. Their use of "witchcraft" inside the Palace was a closely guarded secret. Wind was yet to discover the miracles they had Anchored over the decades. It was likely they wouldn't know for a long time indeed. "If you have any concerns, feel free to tell me." Heading towards a nearby sink, the scientist poured a glass of water. Returning, she offered it to Natsuki. "For your head." She smiled.

Taking the glass dubiously, Natsuki could only continue to stare at Viola's prone form. Helene had already returned to her desk, speaking quietly with Shiro. Today she had witnessed Viola kill a God. Ka… gu… something or other. Not only did technology confuse her, but the supernatural did as well. What had happened today had been absurd, yet… she sighed. Here she was, before her Valkyrja who instead of getting annihilated, had survived. Albeit having her insides almost spill from her body. Pressing her lips to her glass, Natsuki studied Viola's face. There were even tubes going inside her mouth and nose. Yet… she looked peaceful. It caught Natsuki off guard who continued to stare. This was the first time she had seen Viola look so innocent.

"She wasn't burned, no." Helene's voice echoed across the ward faintly. "The pressure seems to have caused her old wounds to reopen. Though, I suspect this may have happened because her spiritual energy was super-compressed. Everyone within the vicinity felt it, I can't imagine what she herself had experienced."

"It sounds unwise to immediately reintroduce her to spiritual energy, then. Even if we had the means to do so." The scholar murmured, brushing his fingers across his lips as he studied the parchment.

Watching the pair out the corner of her eye, Natsuki sipped her water. Super-compressed energy…?

"I have a theory that Kiyohime protected the Archvalkyrja from the fire."

"Oh?"

"Kiyohime is a Wurm. Across the world, they are known to manipulate the very fabric of weather and the elements. It may very well be the case that with her heightened spiritual energy, Kiyohime was supercharged."

"...and allowed Kiyohime greater control." Helene murmured, cupping her jaw in thought. Soon, her eyes locked with the Einherjar. "Natsuki." She approached her again, gesturing for Shiro to follow. "I would like you to fetch the Spymaster and if you're able, Tomoe."

"Tomoe wants nothing to do with me right now." Natsuki muttered, taking another sip of her water. A plan was clearly forming within Helene's mind.

"Tell her that without her aid, the Archvalkyrja will never awaken."

That was rather morbid. Natsuki stared at the scientist before finishing the water. "Fine." Pushing the glass into Helene's hold, she eased up onto her feet. It wasn't like she had anything better to do, and staring at Viola was just depressive. "But I'm not promising anything with Tomoe."

"Of course." Helene smiled. "We'll be here."

The woman's voice became fainter as Natsuki exited the ward. Ignoring the stares she received from the soldiers, Natsuki headed straight for the stairs. She still couldn't figure out what was going on. Everything was going so fast that Natsuki couldn't keep pace. Would she honestly want to end up like Tomoe, though? She had been stuck in her head so much she refused any contact at all. Natsuki released a breath as she entered the servants' wing. What was she going to do about Tomoe, anyways? Helene had made it sound so easy; she doubted it would be. Picking her gaze up from the floorboards, her attention moved to a small gathering by the Spymaster's door.

"Yeah, I'm having the uninjured knights bring it in now." The Captain of the Guard spoke with Mahya. "We're having to build a pulley for it though."

"That is good." The Spymaster nodded, her gaze sweeping down the corridor towards Natsuki. "Never in recorded history has anyone managed to study the bones of a Key. I wonder what we shall discover?"

"Hopefully a better way to kill the damned things." Haruka grumbled, her arms crossing. She noticed Natsuki as well.

"Helene needs you down in the ward." Natsuki motioned to Mahya who nodded.

"Haruka, I must be off. Good luck with the hauling."

"Go without me." Natsuki motioned to the Spymaster as she brushed past both women. "I need to find Tomoe." Or rather, drag her. Slipping past the corner, Natsuki headed directly for the quarters. Once returning, she tried opening the door. Finding it unlocked, she sighed. Tomoe had clearly refused to listen to her. This was going to be a pain, wasn't it? "Tomoe?" She peered into the dark quarters. Slipping inside, her eyes were pulled to a mild glow on the table. The witch's communication rune? She had said t—oh no. Closing the door, she hurried towards it and hesitantly picked it up. How does this thing wo—

"—Hello? Oh, thank goodness!"

Natsuki flinched, almost flinging the thing across the room in shock. The witch's voice was inside her head?! "H-how?"

"Natsuki? Is that you?"

"Y-yeah." Natsuki sat herself down, staring as the strange beacon thrummed with light.

"Listen to me, something awful is about to—"

"—It's already happened. We got attacked—by a Key. Viola killed it, but she's in a coma now." A crushing silence soaked the quarters before Yukino's voice invaded her head again.

"Which Key was it?

"The bird." Natsuki's face scrunched up. "Ka...gut…" Ugh, why did these Keys have such silly names?

"Kagutsuchi. It's as I feared… Is Tomoe with you?"

"No. But I think she's close." Standing, Natsuki approached Viola's bedroom and opened the door. Noticing the balcony entrance wasn't open, she paused. Had Tomoe left the quarters without locking the door? Entering the balcony, this was indeed the case. "Or not. I don't know where she is." She peered over the balcony ledge in morbid curiosity. Fortunately, the Einherjar's body wasn't found. "She's been unresponsive since Viola killed Kagutsuchi."

"You must find her, Natsuki. Last night I finished studying her Anchor. She isn't an Einherjar at all."

What...? "W-what do you mean?" Of course Tomoe's an Einherjar! ...Right? Heading for her own bedroom, she looked inside here as well. Not finding the older woman, her patience started wearing thin. Where in Gods' name is she?!

"I can't go over these details yet. Please find her and make sure she stays with you. I fear if she's with Viola, she may kill her."

Yukino seriously couldn't be suggesting that Tomoe's not an Einherjar but not say what she is? Again, people were hiding things from her. Glowering, Natsuki exited the quarters and started aimlessly searching the servant's wing. "I'll er… I'll speak with you when I find her." Pocketing the rune out of sight, Natsuki commenced the search. At the back of her mind, Natsuki realised something: She genuinely wanted to save Shizuru Viola.


"Valkyrja of Three."

Viola jolted awake inside an endless desert of mist. Her crimson gaze swept across the land, fruitlessly searching for the voice. Who was that? Where is she? Sitting up within the sand, her hands sank inside the frozen grains. The fog eased away, and in all directions, rolling sands stretched on for countless miles. W-wait, this is—Darting her hands to her torso, Viola inspected herself quickly. She wasn't charred nor were there any injuries beneath her cuirass. She hadn't died, so why was she at the gateway to Valhalla? Her gaze pulled upwards to the monumental golden gates which had appeared before her. Skywards a stunning aurora painted the horizon. Shimmering caught her eye and she pulled her gaze from the spectacular sight. Her cuirass was causing those lights? Her lips gaped slightly in realisation, her armour and Anchor glowing prismatically.

Anh had never told her of this. But who's to say a Valkyrja had ever experienced this in the first place? Enclosing her palm around her Anchor, she stared as the aurora was manipulated. Then, as quickly as she beheld the experience, it disappeared. The environment warped as though she was pulled backwards in time. Decades, if not centuries zoomed by until suddenly, she found herself in an outworldly location.

Stone walls stretched storeys tall with glazeless windows sat below a vaulted ceiling. Timbered arches decorated the roof; the frames engraved with complex woodwork. This looked like Wind Cathedral, she realised. Her eyes pulled downwards, following the stone tiles until… Viola's eyes widened.

Beneath the nave stood someone who shouldn't exist.

"Shizuru?" Anh approached her unsurely. Easing down onto her knees before the stunned woman, Anh's expression twitched. "L-look at you…" She murmured, stroking her cheek gently. "You have come so far without me."

"A-Anh…?" Viola stared at her, tears welling within her eyes. This couldn't be possible?! The Guardian had killed her before her very eyes! A choked gasp released from her lips as she was pulled into Anh's arms. "A-an-Anh!"

Her Valkyrja hushed her silently, pressing her lips to Viola's temple. "Shizuru, listen to me." Hooking an index finger beneath her chin, Anh tilted her head so their eyes locked. "You do not have long with me." Her gaze fell between them, causing Viola's eyes to follow.

"N-no…"

The Valkyrja could only watch Viola sadly. When she had died, the Guardian had sliced open her gut. Blood and gore oozed from out the gorged injury, smearing her uniform. "You are also dying like I did." She forced Viola's gaze from her mortal wound, keeping their gaze trained. "Saint Vlas is causing havoc here. You are already beneath his gaze, Shizuru." Settling a palm to Viola's cuirass, she said: "I am unsure what happened to you, but you do not have long either. You must escape this place before your soul is lost forever like mine." Blood crept from beneath Viola's cuirass, soaking into her lap below.

"D-don't leave me again, p-please!" Viola desperately curled her arms around her dead Valkyrja.

"I… I have to. I am sorry." Anh snaked her arms around the younger woman in attempts to comfort her. "I have watched you, you know?" She murmured into her ear. "You have been so strong, I am so proud of you. But it is time… let… g—" Her eyes widened as Viola crashed their lips together. Melting into her, the sorrowful kiss ended as quickly as it started. "Shizu—"

Viola's environment distorted again. Now located within a dark forest, she sagged into the ground, sobbing. W-why would this hellish place be so cruel to her?! Her heart shattered all over again, sundering her very soul. It was far more painful than her injuries. A tidal wave of loss overcame the Archvalkyrja.

After a time, she compelled herself upwards. Wavering on her feet, she clasped a palm to her mouth. Her body felt heavier than the world itself and her heart cried. Lowering her hand, she gazed at her blood stained fingertips. No, she didn't have long, and she could feel her insides. Her wounds were obvious, even beneath her armour, but they didn't necessarily hurt. She just… she needed to get out of here.

Painstakingly, Viola started her trek through the forest. Her eyes nervously swept the area, catching sight of moving shadows. Was this region dangerous? Lowering her hand, she reached for her sabre and unsheathed it. Only silence resonated between these trees, putting the Valkyrja on edge. Still she could sense their eyes.

"Valkyrja of Three Beings."

That voice from earlier spoke again. A light within the distance illuminated her path. Something felt incredibly wrong, but she was lured towards it like a moth to flame. Fog enveloped the Archvalkyrja, making it impossible to avoid the light. The closer she approached this shimmering orb, the cloudier her senses became. Darker… foggier until… nothing at all. The moment Viola passed into the light, her surroundings vanished entirely. Complete darkness enshrouded her on all sides.

"Valkyrja Viola. To save your soul from oblivion, you must find the great ash tree, Yggdrasil. Thereupon its roots you shall achieve harmony with your three selves and with that, destroy it."

Viola searched for the voice, but didn't find its owner. Yggdrasil? Wasn't that the tree she had seen within her vision? Her three… selves? What is this voice talking about? It didn't return, and instead Viola felt as though she was falling. Her mind was spinning like a raging tempest. Then, a sight beheld her eyes that was otherworldly yet familiar. Before her was a chapel from millennia ago. Shizuru Viola took witness as a shadowy figure impaled her past-self within the chest. Her heart vaporised, her and the figure collapsed into a gorey display of death. At that very moment, ancient memories ploughed into the Archvalkyrja's mind.

Her sabre clattered to the floor as she crumpled against stone tiles. Holding her skull within her hands, a portion of her bygone amnesia faded. Unto her a terrible and isolated life was revealed. Recollecting the HiME Carnival, it poured inside her brain. Decade old questions were answered, disbelief and turmoil ensuing the Valkyrja who couldn't comprehend them. Harbinger… psychopath... murderer… unfeeling monster…

Fujino.

A woman who could not lust, still desperately yearned for her unacquainted love: A libidoless monster with the most corrupt yet loving heart. "N-Natsuki?" The realisation hit Viola like an asteroid ravaging life. Whilom she adored the delinquent who seldom unveiled her inner desire. Tired eyes stared at the floor as Viola's fingertips clawed tile. She had k-illed her l-ove…? Thenceforth the rumours had always been true. She had murdered Natsuki in cold blood; so Anh had her? N-no. No...no, no! This was a cruel nightmare! A choked sigh released from Viola's bloodied lips, hair falling past her shoulders to envelope her. Yet she had witnessed the legendary aurorae and Valhalla's gateway. I-t… was not… Heaving to her feet, the Archvalkyrja lumbered towards the two corpses.

Their blood trickled down the chapel steps, soaking Viola's boots as she approached. Standing before her past-self, she apprehensively stared down into cold, drying eyes. A gaping hole was gorged within Fujino's left breast. Bits of rib were stuck within flesh, her heart completely splayed open and fried inside. Anh had… healed that? Raising a palm, she rested it upon her cuirass.

"S-Shizuru?!" A cry tore from behind her. Spiralling around, Viola watched as her past-self cut Natsuki down mercilessly. With a swipe of her naginata, blood, guts and gore swerved across the chapel violently. Toppled to her knees, Natsuki gasped for air as she started drowning in her own blood. Then, she succumbed to the agony before Fujino's feet.

"...Natsuki?" Fujino whispered, indecisively reaching a hand towards her.

"To unlock the route to Yggdrasil, your three selves must face their worst nightmares. Only then shall you escape my domain and become whole."

"Is this a cruel joke?!" She screamed up into the chapel rafters. Not receiving an answer, Viola whirled around and discovered Fujino focusing on her solely. Starting to feel increasingly lightheaded from the blood loss, she clasped a hand to her scalp. S-she didn't have the mental capacity for this anymore! Her Anchor clinked against her cuirass as her legs wavered beneath her.

Though Fujino was alive before her, those eyes were soulless. They enraptured Viola into a brief morbid trance until she realised what was happening. She leapt back, evading Fujino's blade by a hair. This couldn't be happening?! Fujino merely stalked forward, raising her Element above her head. Swiping downwards, the blade hovered millimetres from tile before Fujino shuffled back into a readied stance.

This weapon reminded Viola of the spontoon, a spear similar to a halberd. The naginata's pole in total was around 5'5ft and the blade 1'5ft. How was she going to bypass this? Grounding herself, she lunged for her sabre still resting uselessly upon the floor. This whole time, she was keenly aware of the crimson blade following her. Once stilling, it was already beside her left shoulder. Quickly blocking and pushing it away with her sabre, Viola stepped back. She was already at a complete disadvantage, her past-self thrusting the end towards her legs. This continued uselessly for a several minutes, and Viola started understanding her grave situation. This weapon—whatever it was—had no openings. Even when the Valkyrja aimed for Fujino's forearm, it was fruitless. She couldn't complete an arc else she'd get stabbed.

Then, Viola realised what that voice meant.

Fujino—essentially herself—was her worst nightmare. However… her gaze momentarily locked upon Natsuki's corpse. Fujino's most precious person was Natsuki, this at least meant she couldn't summon Kiyohime. But neither could she. Her spiritual energy was spent. Unless she rammed the Element aside, had an opening or lobbed off Fujino's hands, she's stuck. Luckily, Viola knew how to use spears, so it's the hands or finding an opening.

The two women circled around the chapel, never removing their stares. Fujino's right shoulder faced towards Viola; her naginata kept horizontal within her hold. Her expression was totally neutral, not a hint of weakness displayed. Not even her cold, dead eyes gave Viola respite who hovered her sabre downwards.

Twisting her free arm out the way behind her, Viola's knuckles brushed to her hip. She had a single chance. Feigning a strike, the Archvalkyrja drew back before the naginata thrust against her cuirass. Arching her sabre beneath Fujino's blade, the Element was shot upwards. 'Now I have you.' Swerving behind her, she slashed her sword deeply into flesh. A gut-wrenching scream pierced the chapel as her blade cut into Fujino's forearm. Nerves were ripped and muscle was shredded, making Fujino's almost grip useless. Not stopping here, Viola then wrapped her arm around Fujino's throat from behind. About to plunge her sabre into the woman's back, a headbutt dazed her.

Adrenaline propelled Fujino. With a final bout of strength, she swung her naginata downwards around herself. Viola jumped above the blade, finally triggering Fujino's anger. Blood flowed down her arm, but she cared less, pivoting the Element again but upwards. Ceasing, Fujino remained stiff for a brief moment. Her dead gaze drifting downwards to the blade piercing through her chest.

As her past-self slammed against the tiled floor, a violent spurt of blood erupted from the wound. Viola froze, heaving for breath as she stared at the dead woman. "How was I so foolish?" Her face twitched in strain before her knees buckled. Sabre skidding across the ground, a choked gasp released from Viola's throat. U-ugh, her chest… it f-elt like her heart had been go-rged out… H-had impaling Fujino through the h-eart…? Her lips trembled in realisation as she hissed in pain: All at once, agony tore through her, clouding her awareness and ruining all common sense. That and oh… her head

"Fujino's soul has been cleansed, and unto you respite for a time."

"Shizuru." Arms snaked around her from behind, pulling her backwards into Anh's chest. "You have two left." Anh's violet gaze hovered above Viola's shoulder and over to Fujino. "You have done well." Resting her hand against Viola's cuirass, she drifted her palm lower. Covering a bloodstained hip, murmured: "Your Earl counterpart is next. Do you think you can take her?"

"N-ot really…" Viola mumbled distantly, her head pulling down. Even with the supposed rest, she doubted she could defeat another. She was so lethargic she was unaware Anh was even speaking with her—nevermind that she's back. "Do… don't think I c-an—"

"Can what?"

Is it the end?

"Hm." Her Valkyrja hummed with amusement, encircling her fingers around her Anchor. Raising it, Anh tilted the prismatic crystal level with Viola's gaze. "What if I offer you some of my spiritual energy? It won't affect me as I'm stuck here anyway." She didn't wait for her reply, guiding it towards her own bosom. "...This won't take a moment."

What's happening…? Feeling her strength gradually begin to return, she distractedly looked around. W-wait, A-Anh had been her-e?! A supernatural push eased her onto her feet and made her stagger forward. Barely catching herself, a new environment materialised which she also recognised. "Ga-rder...obe?" The ruins were renewed before her very eyes. Speechless, she could only take witness as overgrown steps transformed into flawless ardent. There, atop the oval motte stood the Guardian's entrance. It was no longer crumbled, a-nd—"Natsuki?!"

Her Earl counterpart… flew? ...towards her.

"Benevolence is your second self's great virtue. Do not follow her guidance."

W-here is she? Viola glanced around before realising the Robed Meister clutched her shoulders. Gazing into identical crimson eyes, it clicked: She's Natsuki?! "P-please…!" This carnation of herself begged, as she quickly grasped her wrist—pulling a firearm from her grip. "I-I ca-... I can't lose you!" Viola—Natsuki?—was pulled into her arms and the pistol was thrown aside.

Completely and utterly confused, Viola's hands hovered behind her past-self's back. What does the voice expect her to do? It seems her previous carnation had already saved Na-...herself? Ugh, her head was spinning… "I-I… am not going anywhere." She said, wondering whether she should try to mimic Natsuki. Who's to say this Natsuki was like hers though?

"L-let us head to the infirmary before another ORPHAN attacks."

ORPHAN? Such as those monsters from Fujino's lifetime? She couldn't remember that previous life, yet the facts bizarrely materialised when she needed them. "Vi—Shizuru." She stopped herself, feeling absolutely ridiculous that this was indeed occurring. "I think I may have forgotten… what is happening?"

"Natsuki?" The Robed Meister halted, staring at her apprehensively. Pressing an armoured palm to her cheek, her expression visibly strained. "Please…speak louder. I cannot hear you."

What had happened to her past-self here? Is she partially deaf? "Sorry, I… What exactly is happening?" Thankfully, Viola could read her past-self well. She was confused—and very nervous. "I think an ORPHAN did something."

"We must find Helene immediately." The Robed Meister scooped her up abruptly in bridal style. Viola had no choice but to wrap her arms around her past-self's shoulders. "I am worried, Natsuki. You are not yourself at all."

"I do not feel myself." Viola confessed more for herself than the sake of imitating. She fearfully looked down to Garderobe below. S-he… she hated this. Anxiously she clutched herself, looking anywhere but the ground. After what felt like aeons, her feet settled onto solid land. Anxiously she looked around before noticing she recognised this building especially. Wasn't this the building that had been occupied by SLAVEs days ago? It was also another entrance to the Guardian, correct?

Entering, Viola couldn't quite believe her eyes. The corridor was flawless; there was no longer a gaping hole! The electricity worked too—bypassing a room full of children, a chill ran down Viola's spine. At its front sat a woman whose eyes locked with hers. Their interaction had been brief, but the ominous sensation did not relent. Like herself, that woman hadn't belonged here. H-ow did she… raising a hand to her chest, she remembered this was Natsuki. She thought her Anchor might've allowed her to sense that, but… "W-wait…" She mumbled, pressing that palm to her skin-grafted cheek.

"You're running out of time…!"

She darted her attention back to the room. That voice belonged to that brunette woman—who was no longer there? Should Viola seriously be listening to this woman—or whatever she is? Though, "cleansing Fujino" had seemed to have cleared some of the fogginess.

"Don't fail like I did." Anh had appeared behind her Robed carnation who wasn't aware of her. "I didn't purify my past-selves. This is why I died." Phasing through the Meister, Anh offered her hand out to Viola. "I can guide you to where you need to go."

Staring at the palm, Viola's attention slowly rose. "You… are not Anh."

"Of course I am." Anh smiled, taking a step closer as their surroundings stood still. "Who else would I be?"

"Anh rarely contracted her speech." Moments ago too, hadn't "Anh" held her like a lover? The bareful presence from that room had moved to here as well. "Sanada..." Viola hissed, the name venom on her tongue. "Do not think that you can deceive me when my memories are returning. How dare you impersonate my Valkyrja!" Her voice seethed with anger and at that moment, the illusion surrounding them shattered like glass. Rebounding back to the chapel, Viola's eyes quickly marked her sabre.

Sanada Yukariko now stood before her. The nun was speechless for a brief moment until flinging herself backwards. "Oh, Valkyrja Viola! Never seek to corrupt the person whom you love, it can go further than you think!" Materialising her bow, she notched an arrow.

"Spoke the one who has done all of this?!" Viola spat, leaping for her sabre and pushing forward to confront Yukariko. Before a shimmering arrow could be fired, the Valkyrja furiously cut into the bow. This phony nun dares challenge her?! After all she's done to her and others?! About to carve a hole into Yukariko's skull however, the crazed woman disappeared. Whirling around, Viola tore her gaze across the chapel. Laughter emitted across the rafters before she returned behind Viola.

Impaling an arrow into Viola's shoulder, muscle was fried, creating the aroma of burning fat. The outraged Archvalkyrja spun around before Yukariko had the chance to adapt. The woman's blade arced upwards, slashing across her cheek messily. Stumbling backwards, she smeared a palm across her bloodied cheek. "G-good! You've improved so well!"

"Silence!" Charging forward, the mad nun again disappeared, simmering the Valkyrja's anger. She's doing this on purpose, isn't she? This way, Sanada could exhaust and easily kill her.

"Your path as a Valkyrja is unorthodox!" Sister Sanada appeared beneath the bloodsoaked nave that no longer graced corpses. "Saint Vlas! Purify the vice which is this venal child!" Like millennia ago, a grand glaze window formed behind her. Emblazoned upon its glass was an ardent horse within a glorifying crown of light. "Unto you I shalt despair for I failed to purge you beneath His eyes! Again, you have wrought your own dea—"

Having strode up to the nun, Viola had simply thrust her blade into her stomach. "You are but a novice." She recited the crazed woman's words from long ago. "Begone, forever." Twisting her bloody blade, a sickening crunch emitted until she heaved the Sister from off it. Sanada crumbled to the floor heavily—she was dead. Straining for breath, Viola glared down at her before her own body finally yielded. Tumbling backwards, Viola's environment faded to black once more.

Viola stared up into the darkness, her mind completely in turmoil. Was she dying? She didn't know, and furthermore: H-had she... truly met Anh, or had Sanada imitated her the whole time? What's… her psyche is an utter mess... Nor was she sure whether "cleansing Fujino" had been a blessing or a curse. Now that she didn't fear for her life, memories were spilling out of control. S-she had slaughtered her most precious person and she had to witness it again…! O-oh Gods', what has she done…?

Her borrowed spiritual energy dissolved, leaving the Archvalkyrja to her doom.


A/N: I, er… this chapter is pretty wild. I knew it would be, but I ended up going with the flow and this happened. The next chapter will probably be insane too. Don't worry, Cyne Wælcyrge isn't concluding, it's just reaching a large hurdle.

I wasn't actually planning for Viola to meet her previous carnations at all. The Fujino vs Viola scene was especially difficult. This is because spears almost always defeat swords. Since this is Viola though, I had her win with the pretense Kiyohime couldn't be summoned. If this had been present, Fujino may have won. If both Kiyohimes were activated too… well, we want Viola alive, of course. This is the precise reason why I didn't have Cyne-Viola vs Twanged Nerves-Viola either. Cyne-Viola would've been smashed into atoms. Yukariko's return wasn't planned originally either. There was someone else I had in mind for the illusion scenes, but Yukariko fit better. Viola's crazed mind will be explored later, there's a lot to sift through.

Shiro is from Mai-Otome: Sifr and Unmei no Keitoujou (For some reason, his name changed from Kyoji Takamura to Shiro). Here I've named him Takamura Shiro.

PS: I've changed the chapter names around. There are rough translations, and If you read between the lines, many of them foreshadow events.

Reviews

Elizabeth Charlotte: This is why I warned the chapter would be insane. Though honestly, my imagination has always been chaotic. That's the power of Autism and mental illness, I suppose. It's going to be interesting seeing how people react to this chapter. I'm flattered you love this story so much. Please though, if you keep reading it you might kill your love for it, lolol.

Doulux: Vous l'avez parfaitement décrit, c'est exactement ça!