Discordant Harmony
Chapter 3
Unexpected Allies/Dangerous Foes
AN: Smut Scene in chapter
Location: Copenhagen, Denmark
Time: 12:00 PM
3 days before broadcast
It was a beautiful day in Copenhagen, throngs of tourists were walking around the picturesque houses, all bunched up side by side displaying vibrant colors such as bright yellow canary, calming cyan, or rust red. The cafes littered the narrow streets adjacent to the true jewel of the city, the Nyhavn, a magnificent 17th-century waterfront, canal, and entertainment district that brought thousands of tourists every year.
The Age of Technology may have changed the whole world's way of interacting with each other, yet some areas remained relatively untouched with the ever-encroaching VR and AR being displayed on the buildings. This area of Copenhagen still retained houses built of actual brick, mortar, and wood, instead of the synthetic materials that dominate the construction of all modern infrastructure.
While a tranquil area it was not destined to be a peaceful area for the citizens and individuals but a tragedy that brought the world's attention to itself.
It is in a large market area where hundreds of people of all ethnicities and nationalities lingered and talked, where all of a sudden a figure clapped their hands, bringing the market to a quiet lull, as the curious bystanders looked at the stranger that had interrupted their soliloquy.
The individual in question was standing on a podium, elevated height to look at all the people surrounding them. She clapped her hands one more time and all the noise became static. Content the strange individual cleared her throat and began her long-awaited dialogue:
"Ahh, I apologize profusely for interrupting this fine sojourn that all of you were enjoying, I just wished to speak and inform all of you of some things. I hope that is ok."
The crowd shifts uneasily as the person in question talking are rather bizarre, they are still confused on gender but the voice was feminine. However, this individual in question was wearing a dark flowing robe and what they could see of her body was wrapped in bandages. Uneasy, a woman in the crowd daringly speaks to this eerie figure:
"I beg your pardon, but if you are here to advertise I kindly ask you to leave, we already have virtual people that bombard us with endless advertisements, the last thing we need is a real-life spokesperson to do it. I have to return to Villa Copenhagen soon and do not wish to listen to such a pitiful attempt at self-promotion from yourself as I am rather busy."
The dark-robed figure tilts her head in acknowledgment and responds calmly:
"I apologize for any misconceptions, madam. I am not here to sell, cajole, or barter with any of you outstanding individuals from all walks of life and different countries. I merely have a message to pass on to all of you."
The crowd grows restless yet their curiosity is piqued, for an individual to preach is unheard of in this day and age since all information and streaming channels can be viewed through their metia. However this woman in front of them had something to her voice, it was soothing, alluring, it captivated an audience and they demanded to hear more. Even the rich bourgeoisie that had complained found herself having fewer complaints, and wanting to hear whatever message this oddly dressed individual had for them.
Another individual from the crowd found his courage and curiosity and spoke thus:
"Well all of us are travelers of life and its hardships, and you seem to have a passion to speak to us, so I suppose it would not hurt to hear it. Please speak err, what is your name?"
The woman in bandages tilts her head in acknowledgment and responds with concern:
"Ahh, how rude of myself, I forgot the very basics of human courtesy, when meeting new friends from different places, it is customary to give one's name. Very well my name Is Sirius Romanee Conti, and I have a message of love for all of these newfound friends. It is for all of us, caught in this beautiful market in dazzling Copenhagen by the Nyhavn, where we can all agree that we are friends correct?"
The crowd of different foreign nationalities had already calmed down and were in a lull, who did not want to be friends with Sirius? Such a kind woman and all she wants is to know if they are friends? Forget meeting mere minutes ago, they all shared bonds of friendship already. They were offended that this woman asked them to be her friends. Of course, they are, can she not tell their bonds to each other already?
A young boy from the crowd stepped forward with a determined gaze and declared with passion:
"Excuse me, my name is Anders, and aren't we already friends, Sirius? Please tell us your message because friends help each other!"
Sirius's eyes are hard to make out but they soften a touch as she clears her throat to speak:
"Thank you, Anders, that helps me and I am very grateful we are friends, have we not gotten through the barriers that isolate strangers into becoming the most cherished friends? Anders, you and I are inseparable at this point, thank you for pointing it out. "
The boy named Anders beams with happiness and the crowd gets emotional. How could they have doubted this noblewoman named Sirius? The first woman that spoke out is already crying tears of shame, at questioning her amazing friend and shaming her. How dare she. But with renewed eyes, she is ready to see what will lie ahead.
Sirius eye's get emotional at all her new friends, So she proceeds to speak of the reason she is there:
"I just wanted to celebrate with my friends in this beautiful capital of Denmark some choice words. Are we not all friends, Do we not all love each other?"
The crowd goes restless with emotion and half are crying while the other half shout back:
"Of course we love you, Sirius, we love each other and we love you. Are you not our new friend?"
Sirius seems to close her eyes and nod her head in acknowledgment as she continues:
"Of course we are the dearest of friends, and I love you all. I just had a quick question. Would a friend forgive another friend's sins? Would they talk about it, contest it, and eventually reconcile? Or would a fake friend just break that strenuous relationship, I wonder?"
The crowd and the boy named Anders refute immediately:
"Of course not! Friends stick by each other through thick and thin, always helping each other!"
Here the crowd is unsure but Sirius smiles and says:
"Why those words deeply move me, your new friend and champion for your woes. Let me ask this if a friend was in mortal danger would you not hesitate to use your love and bonds of friendship to save them?
The crowd unhesitatingly answers back:
"OF COURSE NOT! FOR A FRIEND WE WOULD SACRIFICE OURSELVES!"
Sirius just acknowledges the gesture and raises her arms as she proclaims:
Well, then my new friends, companions, and joy of my life. I have committed an error in forgetting to tell you lovely people my occupation. Representing the Saint's Holy Order, I am Sirius Romanee Conti, Cardinal of Forgiveness. And I forgive all of you for your sins of self-sacrifice!
The crowd shedding tears of joy at being forgiven don't even realize that multiple bombs go under their feet, decimating them all as the last thing they recall is their tears of joy at their oh, so beautiful friend Sirius.
(Time Change)
Location: Copenhagen, Denmark
Time: 5:00 PM
3 days before broadcast
Crusch Karsten has always prided herself on being a self-confident woman on top of all things, using her determination to forge her path through life. Yet, witnessing the carnage in the market of Copenhagen brought a familiar emotion, futility, as she felt lacking the ability to stop the madness she was witnessing with her own eyes.
Mutilated bodies of women, men, and even children litter the destroyed market. It was analyzed that there were several plasma mines underneath to detonate upon Sirius's mad preaching. It disgusted and abhorred her, the levels these so-called cardinals of the saint's holy order operate. Preaching about virtues while massacring indiscriminately.
Her companion and childhood friend, Felix Argyle, was crying as the Copenhagen EMS were rolling away bodies, and injured civilians that may not have died due to the explosion, but cried tears at the parting of their dear friend Sirius. He rushed to whoever needed medical care, and with his nanites assisting to regulate blood pressure and prevent lethal wounds from forming, helped where he could.
A police sergeant took note of Felix's actions and went to where he was and loudly demanded:
"Only authorized individuals can take care of the wounded, I will need you to step back and let the professionals do their job."
The poor sergeant was unaware of the verdant-haired woman behind him until he felt cold sweat behind his back and turned his head to look at Crusch. He froze in terror, and started internally crying about being reassigned while the green-haired woman spoke:
" Sergeant Noah, this is my comrade who specializes in the medical field. He has diligently saved many lives and is one of the few experts on site that can provide aid to these poor unfortunate victims. Pray to tell me what gave you the impression that you could interrupt his work?"
Noah was sweating buckets and profusely apologized:
"'Madam Crusch I beg your forgiveness, I was unaware of the circumstances, and acted in poor judgment."
Crusch got even more irritated at being addressed as a madam. For goodness sake, she is in her twenties, unmarried, and she knows the manner of how she speaks may seem old-fashioned, yet madam is too far of an insult for the young maiden to let go. As she is about to retort a calm yet stern voice interrupts:
"Crusch-Sama, this sergeant was merely doing his job, and now that he knows his mistake I doubt he will hinder us in our investigation. Is that not correct, Sergeant Noah?"
The man, nay, gentleman that had talked was a tall man with the signs of vicissitudes present upon his aged face. Yet his gaze was as sharp as the Nano-carbon blade he carried on his hip. Dressed in an impeccable uniform that had the insignia of INTERPOL. An insignia that had the world being pierced by a sword, surrounded by olive branches symbolizing peace and prosperity. Delegating this venerable man as an officer from the International Criminal Police Organization, or ICPO, to abbreviate.
Noah was regretting even showing up to work at meeting two officials from the most prestigious organization as Crusch calmed down and asked him some questions:
"Sergeant Noah, can you inform myself and Wilhelm about the events that occurred today?"
The pitiful sergeant had found a lifeline, and dammit if he was not going to deliver. He goes ahead and states his knowledge of the events:
"At approximately noon, in this very market right by the Nyhavn a figure dressed in black flowing robes with bandages on her face appeared. And started preaching about friendship and love to the enraptured crowd. After several minutes she revealed she was part of that cult of fanatics, The Saint's Holy Order, and proceeded to detonate several high yield explosive plasma mines that had been buried several days ago. So this damnable demon did all that just to murder the crowd. Furthermore, It is just inconceivable that the remaining survivors are still clamoring about were their dear friend Sirius went."
Crusch and Wilhelm stay silent as they analyze and process this information. Both gritting their teeth and clenching their hands as they are well aware of how Sirius operates. The only thing they are unaware of is how she can captivate anyone, whether sole individual or a crowd. As they are both pondering these events a heavily exhausted and emotionally wrecked Felix joins them and speaks:
"I have stabilized who I was able to, Nyah. I am so sickened by these senseless deaths, Crusch-Sama. We need to find these lunatics and make them pay the price of their actions!"
Felix is still shedding tears at all the poor children he saw that had lost their lives and hates such wanton murder for reasons unknown to anyone but these fanatics of the Saint's Holy Order. Crusch grabs her companion in a hug and just murmurs she understands, while Wilhelm is burning the scene of carnage into his eyes to further his resolve to end this reign of terror. While all three were occupied in their thoughts a courier from their investigative team rushed to them while brandishing his metia.
"Crusch-Sama, Wilhelm-dono, Felix-san, I bring updated news of what you had asked me to inquire earlier!"
The young courier, named Alexei, was panting heavily and had to put his hands on his knees to rest up quickly. All three individuals he had named focus their concentration on him, while Felix goes over and inserts some nanites to help with his blood flow and exhaustion. Recovered, Alexei proceeds to continue speaking:
"The deal with the Shadow Broker was successful and she accepted our terms, we now know that two cardinals will be in Japan in 3 days, so we must hurry to go over. We are still uncertain of location, but we heavily believe it will be in Neo-Shibuya, In Tokyo."
"Finally a lead thinks Crusch to herself. We have been on the back burner for far too long, always arriving after disaster struck, and now we have this lead."
Crusch spins around to Sergeant Noah and with a grim smile puts her gloved hand on his right shoulder, making sure to tighten her grip ever so slightly. Noah pales in fear and thinks:
"Oh my god, what shit luck did I bring to myself today, to be on Lady Crush's bad side. I might as well get reassigned to a traffic officer at the rate this day is going."
"Sergeant Noah, you are the highest-ranked officer on the scene correct?" Asks a pissed-off green-haired woman, not out of anger because of this bumbling fool of a sergeant, but due to what she had witnessed and her determination to finally stay one step ahead of her foes.
Noah while trembling nods vigorously in confirmation. Now Crusch Karsten is not known to be a woman to pull rank or authority over other police, intelligence, or military agencies. However, this is the one scenario where she will fulfill the role that INTERPOL granted to her.
"As Acting Commander of the division in INTERPOL created specifically to counter-attack the Holy Saints Order. I Crusch Karsten, leader of the taskforce Engels Wreker, hereby order an immediate stop-gap of information of this incident. For 3 days this information will not reach Japan, and I will accept the consequences of such actions."
"It will take at least forty-eight hours to arrive in Japan and coordinate with their intelligence divisions. I have also heard that Neo-Shibuya holds a special status in all the country, nay, world. Their so-called council may even hinder my investigative team if not shown sufficient motive for a potential attack by these lunatics. With this stopgap of information, it should allow us to catch them unaware when they decide to perform their wicked scheme." Crush thinks to herself, as she signals to Felix and Wilhelm to wrap things up here.
Sergeant Noah wants to retort or ask a reason why they would have to resort to such extreme measures, but a sharp glare from the determined Engels Wreker commander makes his intentions die as fast as they were formed. She releases her grip from the sergeant's shoulder and utters confidently:
"I thank you and the people under your command for the quick work of collecting evidence, aiding the wounded, and sending an order for backup after realizing who was behind this morbid affair. I will catch and prosecute the offenders to the fullest extent of international law, for this crime committed against the innocents of this elegant city. Farewell Sergeant Noah, If you find anything else don't hesitate to ping my metia or my comrades."
With a look of respect on his face, the sergeant saluted the verdant-haired woman who possessed steel will, and agreed without hesitation to send over any new matters that are discovered from this area marked in tragedy.
Wilhelm, Crusch, and Felix get ready to depart the scene of sadness, yet Crusch gazes back, and with determination in her eyes she thinks, never again will she allow such madness to happen while she is present, and with that, they depart to Japan. Unknowingly changing the course of history as they know it.
(Scene Change)
Current Location: Satella and Subaru's home in Neo Shibuya
Time: 6:00 AM
Day of Broadcast
In a quiet residential street, there existed a complex of condominiums. In those condos, Subaru and Satella had moved in to claim their stake in the condominiums. After saving up for a couple of years the enthusiastic couple had made a down payment in one of the condos. Satella furnished the condominium with cute furniture, rugs, couches, and bedding. While a small home, it was enough for these two lovebirds.
Subaru was very nervous moving out of his parent's home, even with Satella encouraging him he lacked the strength to tell his wonderful family that he wished to be independent. While struggling for words his dad just laughed and clamped his hand on Subaru's shoulder and loudly stated:
"Subaru, there comes a time in every man's life where they have to make a critical decision. This is yours and as your father I bless it! Hahaha just don't have children too soon or I and your mother will become obsessed!"
While both Satella and Subaru had tomato-red faces, Naoko laughed and just waved her hand, dispelling all of her beloved's words and amusingly said:
"Both of you take all the time you need okay, Subaru and Tella-chan?" She smirks as she calls to Satella, who she already considers her future daughter-in-law.
Satella to avoid more teasing just grasps Subaru's hand and bows to who she also considers her blood and nervously says:
"I Natsuki Satella, will not let both of my guardians down! Let's go, my beloved before we are teased more!"
Subaru composes himself and with a wink and self-assured smile that melts his parent's hearts, states:
Natsuki Subaru is moving out, thank you for all the care and support I received, mom, dad. I love both of you and we will always stay in touch!"
With a weeping Naoko and Kenichi shedding manly tears, Subaru and Satella move into their place.
It had been a year since they lived together, and now both lovebirds are curled up on each other, the clock about to hit 6 am, silently resting. The day had yet to be started, the sun was not present as its sibling the moon was currently in charge. Suddenly Satella's eyes groggily opened up as the moonlight shone on her face, through the narrow opening of the window blinds.
She has always woken up whenever the smallest of lights, whether natural or artificial, shone on her face.
"We forgot to close the blinds again last night." She thinks to herself still half asleep. The silver-haired girl gazes at the black-haired young man resting next to her and smiles softly.
"It has been four years since I met this wonderful man. Four years of learning how to finally feel accepted and loved, I truly would not be complete without Natsuki Subaru, my future husband." Satella thinks to herself, smiling as she gently strokes his head. Looking at how innocent the boy appears to be resting, Satella grins in mischief and wants to do some light teasing to her beloved.
She curled up even more with her beloved and bit his ear softly, eliciting a gasp from the still asleep Baru. Content with her actions she proceeded to lick his neck tentatively, which makes the poor boy spasm awake.
Subaru awoke quickly and gasped, for he felt Satella's tongue exploring his right eardrum after she had switched from licking his neck. While enjoying the sensation that his fiancé is granting him, he cannot but help to focus on the time. He summons his will as his succubus of a fiancé continues nibbling and biting his ear to his further distraction, and glances at the clock.
"6:20 am. Damn, I usually wake up earlier than this, work was tough yesterday. Ahhh why is Tella-Tan always so assertive. I love it but we have to go to work in a couple of hours, and she did keep me up late last night. I feel like maybe we should have a cha-?"
The boy's thoughts froze as his girlfriend went the direct route and kissed him on the lips. Paralyzed and shocked, he was not ready for such an invasive kiss, where each of their tongues explored each other. Satella pushed forward and got over her love's clenched teeth to fully enjoy her favorite of all kisses, the French Kiss. The woman in love then proceeds to explore every inch of her fiancé's mouth even if she had done so countless times already. Always thinking what if I discover something new? And If I do not then this is nice as well.
As their lips slowly detach and both of them are panting for air, Subaru takes the chance to speak:
"Dear God Tella-Tan, now that's what I call a rude awakening. I would have thought after all we did last night you would have been tired."
Satella's eyes just crinkle mischievously as she caresses Subaru's right cheek. While recalling fondly the memories they made yesterday, she giggles and replies:
"My love, how could I ever get tired of you. We could make love ten times a day and I would still crave for more. For your hands to caress mine, your teeth nibbling my ear, as your dragon rod, pleasures me and brings me to an earth-shattering climax once more. I will never become bored or exhausted from you, my Subaru."
The boy in question reddens up visibly, still not used to how assertive his SMT has become lately. It all changed on the first night they made love for the first time. And while amazing in every aspect for the inexperienced couple, it seemed to have flicked a switch for Satella. As whenever they were home, she was always snuggling up with him, dragging the exhausted boy off to the bedroom for her to prove her feelings for him once more.
Subaru smiles in contentment though, as he is happy being in the embrace of his partner, fiancé, soulmate. And the young woman in love smiles as well as they cuddle closer to each other. Satella's original heated desire had morphed into one of wanting nothing more than to be held by her beloved. After all, they had their whole lives to figure out with each other, together forevermore.
As the fearsome-eyed boy gazed at his fiancé his lips curved into a slight smirk, and he suddenly became the assertive one and kissed Satella, whose eyes had widened rapidly in shock at the unexpected action. Since her beloved is usually the shy one and she has to be the assertive one, as the tables turned on her she found herself melting in his embrace, hungrily returning his passionate kiss with her own.
Subaru's kisses always managed to make his fiancé go wild with desire, but he was not going to let her be in charge this time. He wants to be in control, to make his beloved Tella-Tan realize two can play at this dangerous yet sensual activity, and he pulls his lips away from his panting silver-haired girlfriend. Whose eyes had already gotten glazed with desire, and he moved to bite her left ear hard, yet not hard enough to elicit pain.
She shivers in ecstasy and moans softly while clenching her nails in Subaru's back:
"Ohhhh, Subaru, Don't stop, for the love of everything don't sto-!" Her breath hitches as Subaru moved his mouth from her salivated ear to her neck and bit gently, causing Satella to lose all higher cognitive reasoning. Subaru continued his sensual actions, eliciting exactly the reactions he wanted from Satella. With quick fingers he took off the shirt she wore over her lithe body, which is coincidentally his. She does love wearing her beloved's T-shirts during the nighttime, and nothing else underneath.
His breath hitched as he gazed in wonder at his fiancé's nude body, not for the first time the arousal he felt from last night returns with gusto. And he cups her firm breasts as he puts her right nipple to his mouth, and starts biting gently as well as teasing other parts of her body, letting his fingers wander through her cleavage, then her smooth and toned milky white stomach, to end in their journey in her forbidden garden. He inserts a finger, then two and his beloved's moans start shifting into screams of undulating pleasure.
"Ahhhh Fuckk, Daamnnn, Subaruuu. Subaruu, looove, DON'T STOP." Shouts Satella in agonizing pleasure. It always amuses Subaru that his beloved would curse during their lovemaking sessions since she rarely if ever will shout profanities if it's not in the bedroom. He continues his task of bringing her to the climax as he alternates between each breast until they are both flushed with heat.
He interrupts his devoted work to catch a glimpse at her flushed face, eyes glazed and rolling to the back of her head as she continues to moan and shout proclamations of love, joy, and curses seemingly simultaneously. He stops his work as his wife to be, takes off his clothes in a flash, and by another sheer coincidence all he wore was a shirt as well. Not surprising since they had engaged in sex last night as well as this current round.
Satella is feeling pure pleasure and gazes at her fiancé's gorgeous body and lean figure, while taking him all in she looks down at his visibly enlarged dragon rod and her mind turns blank again.
Subaru was enjoying looking at her dazed face until she smiled and got close to him, and with swift speed took his dick upon her mouth, causing the boy to grunt in surprise and joy, and she went to work on him with her head bobbing back and forth. Resurfacing from air briefly just to grin and lick the head, while cupping his shaft and quickly moving her hand back and forth. Causing Subaru to lose all rational thought process until she proceeded to take him again in her mouth, back and forth till he shouted out he was about to climax, then she suddenly stopped and replied:
"Not like this my love, we always said to be joined at the hip, no?"
And she pushed Subaru till he lay on his back with an awed expression as she proceeded to straddle him, with one hand on his cock she slowly but accurately aimed for her destination. And after a shudder that coursed through both of them, they were joined as one. She leaned forward to kiss Subaru as her fingers became like a vice grip and sunk into his hair and grasped his neck as she began moving with passion and an unquenchable desire.
Subaru would never get used to the sensation of being connected to Satella, each time it was like the first time, each time it was better than last. He moaned into his fiancé's mouth which caused the walls of her vagina to tighten on his shaft; producing both agonies of not reaching the climax, and the desire to proceed and thrust deeper into her opening until she adjusted to the size of his cock. Both of them were nearing the climax, each of them was lost in each other's mouths, breaths, joining as one, souls merging as they do again and again until they screamed out as they both reached their climax together, as one.
Both lay panting and in happiness, as they curled up against each other without a word since none were needed, all their actions had proved their devotion once more, and with smiles in both of their eyes, they went to sleep one on top of the other.
(One Hour Later)
An alarm started loudly wailing from both Subaru and Satella's Metias, which were on the living room table. A disgruntled boy and annoyed girl both shouted simultaneously:
"Alarm acknowledged!" Which then after two short beeps of confirmation, the alarm shut off. Both of them were even groggier after their last session, but they couldn't avoid their work responsibilities.
"Subaruu, we should just skip work and stay at home. We could have more fun that way, no?" The silver-haired girl jokingly says, while planting a brief kiss on the lips of her beloved, before getting up and heading to the shower. "You should join me, my love, that way you can get all the hard-to-reach places." She finishes teasing as she already knew that if they both went to enjoy a shower together, they would never leave.
"SMT, you are bullying me too much, my poor heart can't stand it!" says Subaru while laughing happily. He shakes his head at his fiancé's humor and while he waits for her to be done with the shower he goes ahead and announces:
"Display the outside and any important city, weather, or general notifications, also illuminate the house George-san."
The whole condo lights up and a virtual opening allows the occupants to gaze at Neo-Shibuya as if sitting from a patio occurs. The black-haired boy gazes in wonder at how far humanity has come in this renaissance of the technology.
From the twenty-second floor of the condominium complex named Arlam, much can be observed. Pedestrians going to and from work to the designated jump pads. The construction and complete renovation of the new way of transportation is remarkable. Jump pads are blue platforms that can hold one person, or a group and proceed to then jump to another sector of the city.
Neo Shibuya is broken down into several sectors. While the residential sector for houses, parks, and VR gardens is where the bulk of the residents reside in. Various tourists and potential residents like to scour and walk this area. The VR gardens are quite popular, as one can see in breathtaking detail several species of fauna that don't exist anymore, even going as far as the program connecting with the olfactory sense so that one can imagine how they must have smelled like.
The commercial sector where they have a multitude of businesses selling, offering, and also creating a variety of products. It is not uncommon to walk through the commercial district and witness a medical clinic that helps with augmentations or cybernetic implants. They offer services such as changing one's eye color, strengthening the bone mass of a body to be more durable, or even melding one's flesh with nanobots that allow their limbs to become fluid when desired, or punch through steel if the proper military or mercenary clearance is granted. And many more services are found in this bustling district that puts Neo-Shibuya on the map.
The tourist and recreational districts are where the true fun starts. Since it is here where one can enjoy the FID system, short for full immersion dive. One can use a dive pod as long as they have dive gear installed in order to interact with the pod. Similar to a circlet worn upon someone's head, it resonates when submerged in the pod. With the dive pods in several different locations, appearing as complete virtual avatars of their own design. Full immersion dives are the number one form of virtual enjoyment across this world since one can do anything such as team up with friends and go fight the demon lord, or appear under the Pacific ocean in a submarine, exploring the dark abyss that lurks and slaying leviathans. The recommended time to stay in the pod is six hours, but the gel that one is submerged in has synthetic proteins that provide nourishment in case of an overextended session.
Besides dive pods there are virtual firework shows with dazzling bursts of elegance and display, dragons chasing demons, fox-tailed women laughing and giggling in the sky, youkai stealing sweets from crying toddlers. If one is not ready for these displays of AR, or augmented reality it can be quite frightening the first time.
Another thing of notice is all the Vector zones located throughout the different sectors. Combined with jump pads, some Vectorans fear no traffic as they can just boost, grapple, or propel themselves through heavily dense areas of people. Which is something both Satella and Subaru also do to get to work or to their destination in a timely manner. Licenses are needed to be a vectoran if not playing recreationally in just one vector area, and are used as a means of transportation. The day both Subaru and Satella got theirs they immediately went to try out all the other vector zones.
With a smile on Subaru's face, he thinks of how amazing this city is. Suddenly, A small virtual fox in butler attire appears in mid-air by Subaru's side and proceeds to speak with a slight British accent:
"Sir Subaru, the weather is twenty-two degrees Celsius, if I may say optimum weather for a nice stroll with the missus. The council has put out several announcements warning of rising crime in the commercial district. Apparently, various tourists have not displayed sufficient caution; and chatted about the wealth they had, which caused various Phisher drones to go and bypass their bank accounts. Despite repeated warnings to the tourists they are simply charmed by this wondrous city, acting ignorant and prideful that nothing would dare happen to them, what utter wankers they are." scoffs the snobbish fox, as it knows it would be a lot smarter if it was human, a daily life crisis it suffers through every day.
The black-haired boy after hearing the update thinks to himself:
"I should warn Tella-Tan to be careful on her way to work, even if she works in the education sector, she still has to pass through the commercial one. While amazing the number of things one can witness and purchase there, it is also a growing haven for scammers, phishers, and rogue hackers to make a pretty penny off unsuspecting people. Thanks to the lessons I learned from my boss, I became a lot more self-aware of all the different hacks that can be used to access personal information, and steal people's hard-earned creds. Tella-Tan is also quick to catch on, I can't help but feel bad for those people though."
As he still ponders these thoughts he hears a silver bell-like voice:
"My beloved, I am done with my shower, go ahead and get your stinky butt in there before I smack it."
He turns around at the mildly offensive remarks and spots his giggling girlfriend. Satella is wearing her work uniform with her added touches. A purple blouse with a black blazer, silver slacks that shimmer depending on the light spectrum, which complements her long legs and ends with a black pair of zweven boots.
The Zweven lineup of apparel became paramount in replacing the old outdated models of hover boots and jump aid technology. With added measures of safety and precaution, the zweven boots can facilitate and map where your projected jumping point will be. Furthermore, allows a dash and boosted acceleration that can make you go over four or five meters easily.
Both of them always knew that while a lot pricier compared to normal footwear it helps in the long run when you are in a hurry and have to avoid the congested crowds and markets with several light jumps. Or when they went to their Vector square and competed against other casual players.
"Ahh my heart, SMT is too adorable!" Subaru shouts exaggeratedly as he grabs his heart in shock.
"You are soo cute at times you know that Subaru." Says the silver-haired prankster, happy that she can always elicit such adorable reactions from her partner. She glances at the gentlemanly fox as it bows in her direction and greets her:
"Good morning Lady Satella, your route to work in forty minutes shows satisfactory conditions of little to no traffic using jump pad echo-19."
"Thank you soo much George-san. you are the best fox butler in existence." Replies a smiling Satella, as she always forgets to ask the virtual fox assistance for the traffic route and has arrived late to her job in several instances.
"Alright Tella-Tan, George-San I will be back after getting ready." Waves in farewell Subaru as he heads to take a shower.
The girl nods in acknowledgment and asks the cute fox:
"George-san, how about you help make us some breakfast, and this time not burn the toast, what do you say?"
The cute fox snorts a little at his lady and says:
"You are being a bit cheeky today aren't you missus. If I recall correctly, which I can because I am a virtual program with a perfect recollection that can brew a mean cuppa tea. It was yo-"
"What was that I heard? Is this fox being a little bit snarky with me at the moment? Maybe it needs to have its core personality refined a little?" Wonders with a pensive face Satella, hiding the mischief in her eyes and definitely not trying to make a smug grin.
The poor fox feels bullied and shuts up in a little fear, even though this is the usual banter they enjoy at times. It recalls when both of his masters came into this house, and the silver-haired girl did not know a wee bit about how to start their interactive display bathroom and would shriek when seventeen different water nozzles would splash her without her being ready. It merely shakes its head and replies:
"Let's get started then Lady Satella, what would you and Sir Subaru like to eat?"
"French toast, bacon, and scrambled eggs please!" Eagerly says the lavender-colored eye girl as her stomach rumbles in hunger due to the vigorous activities she and Subaru partake in.
The fox nods in agreement and snaps its fingers. A variety of tools in the kitchen start automatically operating as eggs, milk, slices of bacon, butter, and bread are dispensed from an opening in the refrigerator.
While Satella and George went to oversee the cooking, Subaru got in the shower and activated his preferred shower setting. The shower looked like a glass square with walls of white tiles, equipped with several dozens of nozzles on each wall. As warm water hit him, the shampoo alongside body wash of his choice was dispensed from the loaded dispenser he thought:
"It has been a year since we lived together, just us two, alone. What a wonderful feeling. These last four years to when we met outside that fated convenience store up till now have just been a change that the self-loathing boy I used to be would never have imagined. What an angel my love is, and I am always so honored to wake up next to her and repeat how much I adore her."
"This city we live in grants a lot of possibilities, and Satella is smart enough to adapt quickly. It's strange that four years ago she did not know even basic stuff like Origin Chips, but she did suffer from amnesia that even the doctors couldn't figure out how to treat. Mind injuries are still the most difficult to overcome. I wonder if she remembered who she was would she still have been with me? I-"
Subaru interrupts his spiral of self-loathing as he slaps his cheeks with both hands and finishes showering. With fire in his eyes, he is determined to not become who he used to be. He knows he is better, his parents tell him and his love reminds him every day. While there have been rough moments in the past when depressing thoughts would take over his mind. Satella would help him out, she would place his head on her lap and stroke his cheek while he cried in shame. Until eventually he accepted that he would always have moments of self-doubt, just as he would always have his partner watching his back.
"I won't be defeated by my inner demons ever again." Resolutely states Natsuki Subaru as he leaves the shower and a segment of the wall opens up to allow him into his shared bedroom with his love. The room is furnished with a heavy emphasis on orange, black, and purple, with light shades of lavender here and there. Their bed has black duvet covers, with orange and purple pillow covers. He strides to the closet and pressing a button, out slides his work uniform.
A black and orange mechanic jumpsuit, with a variety of bulky pockets for all the tools he carries for his job as apprentice cyber mechanic, who specializes in forging, crafting, and assembling different objects that aid this futuristic city.
Once suited up he heads to the dining room where he smells his beloved's favorite breakfast, even if it's a rather simple meal. He smirks as he enters and announces:
"Smells lovely, and no burnt toast smell this time Tella-Tan. Also thank you for your help George-San."
She reddens considerably after recalling that incident and smiles while beckoning her Subaru to join her. Which he does with relish. As they both sit down to banter and talk about their evening plans when they get off of work, the prideful fox stiffens considerably, his form fuzzing in and out.
Frowning, Subaru upon noticing what is going stops eating and asks:
"What's the matter, George? You keep on fuzzing in and out, do you want me to take a look at your program? Perhaps it needs some maintenance."
The disgruntled fox appears whole once more without any visible distortions occurring again, and appears to frown as it hesitates to respond.
"What is going on George-san? you look as if you have seen something terrible." Inquires a worried Satella, whom despite the back and forth she engages with the elegant butler, she considers being a friend. Something that always brings a virtual tear of joy to the prideful fox.
"I am afraid you are not too far off the mark Satella. What a bloody nutter that woman is. Here it will be better if I just show you, although be prepared Lady Satella, Sir Subaru, this viewing is not pleasant." Warns the virtual assistant grimly, as it projects a holographic viewing of the local news channel of Neo-Shibuya.
"Breaking News, The Saint's Holy Order has struck again. This time in Copenhagen, Denmark. Reporting live from the targeted area of the Nyhavn, Reporter Annise has the story."
"Thank you and I have to inform you that viewer discretion is advised for the following clip taken by security drones in the scene of this wanton massacre. Please give a couple of minutes for the viewing to be screened and edited of any gruesome shots." While the viewing was temporarily halted for censorship of any particularly nasty incidents. Satella spoke:
"Subaru what is this? I don't like where this is going." Whispers a scared silver-haired girl who had already forgotten about her half-finished breakfast. Subaru gets up from his seat and hugs her as he tries to comfort her:
" I don't know what this is, but let's watch for now since I was going to tell you to be careful on your way to work. There are a lot of dangerous people out there, and you are nice to everyone which I love and cherish with all my heart. Yet we must remain vigilant, don't forget that incident several years ago."
Satella leans closer into her beloved and shivers at the thoughts of that incident that occurred years ago, she had been terrified for both herself and Subaru. Before she could reminisce on what had happened, the screen finishes its editing and displays a scene.
Sirius is seen giving her speech and the enraptured crowd is fascinated by her appearance. The viewers who are witnessing this scene through the news are confused at why the crowd seems to cherish and love this literal stranger. Then she puts the final nail in the coffin as she states her identity as a cardinal of The Holy Saints Order, and proceeds to blow up the whole market area.
Subaru and Satella are dazed and shocked at what they witnessed, how is this even happening in the modern world. Subaru feels sick to his stomach, despite the censors doing their job and preventing the bloodshed from being seen completely. Yet it did nothing for the horrified screams of the unfortunate victims that had been mutilated and died with no reason or motive. A sick senseless act of carnage, whose only purpose was to inflate chaos and destruction.
"Those poor children! I.. I can't imagine Subaruu... What if that was… my students?!" Cries out Satella as tears flood her face, while watching footage of the deceased, there were several children and minors located in body bags. They were being loaded in medical gurneys to be cataloged and identified by their origin chips so that the family could confirm the status of their loved ones.
Subaru's face narrowed in anger at these atrocities, for this is not the first incident they have witnessed on the news to occur. The whole world has been trying to uproot these lunatics that showed up and started committing these acts of violence and mayhem four years ago. Subaru thinks to himself:
"Four years ago a lot of things changed. It is also when I met Satella. A lot of new technology improvements also started that long ago. Furthermore, that is when Flugel announced to the world how he was going to revolutionize the very way we interact with the world. And then he disappeared despite every country's best efforts to find him, the pioneer of the Renaissance of Technology. How odd, but this is no time to think of that. I need to remind myself to be there for my love. We need to remain vigilant."
While thinking those thoughts and hugging Satella, he noticed on the timestamp of the footage it was marked three days ago. He thought why would they be showing us footage from three days ago when anything related to the saint's holy order gets broadcasted worldwide. Moreover, in this age of technology and streaming, any incident can be marked immediately by the streamer drones that the community and host of a variety of channels use. While he was about to ask his fox assistant, the answer presented itself on the screen.
"This footage is from three days ago, but INTERPOL ordered a stop-gap of information from reaching Japan and several Asian countries. While furious and demanding answers to this obvious overreach of authority, we have scheduled a brief Q&A with the Commanding Officer that instilled this blockage of information. We begin now. Streaming live from the plane:
"This Is reporter Kanoko from Shibuya News Corps, I am interviewing the commander of Engels Wrecker, the Special Op strike unit from INTERPOL, in charge of collecting information, fighting, and dismantling the holy saint's order, Crusch Karsten. Madam Cru-."
"I prefer lady, commander, or simply my name as a form of address. I am still far too young to be a madam." Intones a weary yet still sitting in perfect position a verdant-haired woman.
By Crusch's left side sits a sleepy Felix, and by her right, a stoic Wilhelm, a faint twitch of annoyance could be seen on his face before it smoothed itself out to the gentlemanly visage everyone was used to. Wilhelm was annoyed at all the red tape they needed upon setting up a dive meeting in order to meet the council of Neo Shibuya.
After donning their dive gear and submerging in the pods on their heavy cargo military transport plane, they met the council. Judging by the expressions from the three of them, it can be told to have been a mixed endeavor. When Crusch got tired of the stonewalling and bullshit this council kept offering them, she retorted that the shadow broker herself had confirmed the intel. A moment of silence happened until a clear chuckle escaped from one of the council members, the one acting as Chair.
"Oh my, this is getting interesting, please proceed Crusch-Sama, you will have the full cooperation of the Japanese Special Defense Force, alongside the elite mercenaries that patrol our fine city." Replies a breezy voice, gender unknown since in the virtual world you could become anyone, and they were all cloaked in shadows. Yet for an odd reason, the Chair kept sipping tea.
After that they reconvened on the plane and have not slept in over thirty hours, using stims to stay awake, longer still if considering their haste to arrive at Copenhagen. And now they were to be blamed and slandered by the Japanese, Chinese, and Mongolia. Wilhelm misses the days when politics were not a major influencing role in their decisions.
While Wilhelm reminisced about the previous encounter Crusch narrowed her tired eyes and replied to the shaken journalist through the holographic interface:
"I will save you the time, effort, and presentation you have so desperately worked on, into making myself and my comrades seem like individuals that would abuse our power. Firstly, I have already coordinated with the local and national authorities. While I would have preferred to use less drastic methods, our opponents are madmen and lunatics that as you have seen in the massacre of Copenhagen. Secondly, I do have the authority granted by the ICPO to act at my discretion during holy saint order attacks. Thirdly, I did all this to prevent those of the holy saint's order from finding out I am aware of their next target. Finally, I accept all consequences and fallout for my decisions."
A brief pause occurred as both the viewers and Kanoko were in disbelief at the aura of command this young lady has. While Kanoko struggled to form a response, Wilhelm intervened:
"Kanoko-san, I understand how scary it may have been to find out about such a gruesome incident, several days later. However, every action Crusch-Sama has made has been to ensure we can finally strike another blow at this devilish cult organization. I can promise from this old man's views, we will succeed in this endeavor."
"Nyah, we will give those cultists what they deserve! Trust in my lady." Adds an exhausted yet still spirited Felix, he cannot condone what happened and especially when the victims include even innocent children, which strikes a flame inside of him to see the saint's order wiped off the map.
Crusch smiles at her lifelong comrades and with a confident grin address Kanoko, as well as all the expectant viewers:
"Do not worry, this time we will stop the Holy Saints Order, and therefore I bid you farewell as we need to strategize with the JSDF. Stay vigilant and report any odd occurrences and individuals to your local authorities. Commander Karsten, signing off."
With those parting words the screen projecting the side of the Engels Wreker unit got cut off, and a dazed but energetic reporter relayed the news to the viewers:
"Well there you have it, folks, I was initially skeptical but Commander Karsten has this all figured out, as she pointed out stay vigilant and resume your daily activities. This is Kanoko with the Shibuya News Corps, signing off."
The holo display dimmed, and then the quiet house of Subaru and Satella returned to its peaceful atmosphere.
A cheerful fox with spirit in its eyes clenched its fists and declared:
"If I was not a virtual program, my heart would have skipped a beat for Lady Crusch. She seems to have everything in order, and I dare say that stoic old man reminds me of myself, quite dashing and with determination."
The gloomy atmosphere broke apart gently at the willy British manservant or well fox servant. Making Subaru and Satella chuckle with mirth.
"Tella-Tan I know what we witnessed is dreadful, but we have professionals actively in charge. The world may have bad people, but it has just as much as good. I can confirm when you came into my life." States the black-haired boy as he smiles gently and plants a kiss on his fiancé's forehead.
"En, you always know how to make me feel better my beloved, if we did not have to work I would have dragged you into the bedroom." Teases Satella as she uses one hand to caress Subaru's cheek, and the other to play with his soft hair due to him having just showered.
As both love birds looked at each other, a cough was heard coming from neither participant, as they turned around they saw their virtual fox butler point at what was the time.
"While I respect and abide by your wishes to remain joined at the hip and never depart this humble abode Lady Satella, Sir Subaru, I do not approve of this slothfulness. After all, if both of you do not work, who will pay for the upgrade this fine manservant requires." Scoffs the indignant fox, a little offended that he has to deal with these lazy sods when their hormones take over. Another point to being a virtual assistant thinks the fox.
Both Subaru and Satella felt the rebuke from George and felt a little guilty. In a hurry, they devoured their breakfast and drank the fresh-pressed orange juice. After finishing their breakfasts they both bid farewell to the satisfied fox who snapped his fingers and got the cleaning automatons to clean the dirty dishes.
As they rode down the high-speed elevator to the ground floor, both checked their vector gear, making sure they had their zweven boots, gravity stabilizer pads, and a plethora of other checks. To be a true vectoran all depended on the gear you carried. Sure the vector zones and buildings had anti-gravity cushioning to prevent newcomers from becoming a pancake if they miscalculated the range of their jump. However, the human element can always be an almost incalculable factor, thus necessitating all the essential gear.
Subaru confirmed he had everything he needed, and turned around to Satella and asked:
"You have your Lavande gun Tella-Tan?" Inquires a serious sharp-eyed boy to his love.
The silver-haired girl rolls her eyes but pats her right hip, where her custom-made 20th birthday present made from her love hangs. It is her preferred grapple gun when hanging out in the skies of Neo Shibuya alongside Subaru. While a lot more short-range than other grapple guns, it provides a degree of maneuverability unseen with other models. And the most important thing is it was made by her beloved. A fact she warmly thinks about every day.
"Yes my love, I will never depart without it. Hmm? What is this, where is yours Subaruu.?" Inquires Satella upon not noticing it on his person. He looks embarrassed and his cheeks flush as he hesitantly responds:
'I left mine at the workshop yesterday, Me and the boss discovered a new way to integrate nanites into some synthetic materials. And in my haste I forgot it, Haha, don't worry Tella-Tan I will get it back after my shift is over."
Satella pouts since her beloved is always teasing her for forgetting to wear her gear, especially when she is in a hurry to get to her classroom. But she forgives him easily and lets him off with a small reminder:
"I understand my beloved, buut please be careful ok? You warned me of the increase in crimes in the commercial district." Subaru feels guilty for always looking out for his number one when he can be quite careless with himself. So he pats his chest and nods vigorously while saying:
"Don't worry SMT, you can count on me. We will be back after work and discuss the details of our.." Here the boy stops as his face visibly turns red. And as he is thinking on how to word it, Satella cups his face and finishes for him:
"The details of our future wedding my love, geez how are you and your dad so similar. Blushing over matters that we women should be. Do not worry after I get off I already talked to Carmilla-chan about the possible planning and execution of the day of our holy union, with Kami-sama present to grace us."
Subaru relaxes into his lover's touch and before they know it the elevator deposits them on the ground floor. Subaru and Satella step outside as they share a brief hug and whisper to each other:
"Safe travels my love."
"Safe travels my husband." Says Satella emotionally as she gives her lover a peck on the cheek and rushes to her jumpad.
Subaru shakes his head and proceeds to his own jumpad, headed to his work and hoping his boss does not scold him harshly for being a little late.
(Scene Change)
Current Location: Neo Shibuya
Time: 7:00 PM
Day of Broadcast.
A trio of girls are struggling to make sense of the tourist sector of Neo Shibuya, which can only be blamed on them not trying to hail any of the hundreds of assistant guide drones. Although it can't be considered their fault in its entirety since where they come from technology is not as advanced as this futuristic city.
"This city is reeaaallyy confusing to move through Rem-san."
"Rem-nii, Rem-nii it seems Lady Emilia has a terrible sense of direction as always."
"Ram-nii, Ram-nii I agree that our fair lady has gotten us lost several times already."
"Jeez, you guys are such meanies today, teasing me because we get lost once or twice."
"Sister what was in that soup that Emilia-Sama ate, it seems to have given her short-term memory loss."
"Ram-nii, I fear you are correct."
A tired silver-haired girl pouts and sighs, used to dealing with the teasing she gets from the maids under her employ. While lost in the tourist sector and watching people get on strange blue platforms she wonders aloud:
"Where are Beatrice-San, and Garfiel-Kun?" I hope they have found luck with their mission of asking Natsuki Subaru for help."
The maids both furrow their brows and respond to Emilia's concerns:
"Emilia-Sama, I believe you told them to acquire Natsuki Subaru at all cost, not ask him for help," responds Rem, while sighing at what she probably thinks has already happened.
Ram just says exactly what her dear sister is thinking of:
"Lady Emilia both Beatrice and Garfiel are young and impressionable teenagers, I believe they even spoke about who can catch Subaru first."
The girl's amethyst eyes widened in shock, as she groaned internally and prayed that they had not scared the person whose help she needed the most.
"Are they dunderheads? I reeeally remember telling them to seek Subaru-San's help, not to treat him as a prize to catch. Geez does no one listen anymore?" Pouts an annoyed amethyst-colored-eyed girl."
As both twins just shake their heads at their ladies forgetfulness, a sharp voice interrupts them:
"Well look at what we have here boys." Roars out loud a tall and muscled man. Immediately Rem, Ram, and Emilia get in a defensive position, as they have identified this man as someone that surely does not have good intentions. Before they know it, they are surrounded by several dozen different rough-looking men and women, all sporting advanced combat gear and melee weapons such as stun bats, phaser knives, and electro-whips. Emilia despite knowing this situation is rapidly reaching what seems to be an impossible confrontation, still seeks to be the voice of reason and asks with a firm voice:
"We wish no conflict sir, and ask you to step aside. I am unaware why you would impede our path, but we have read on the laws of this city. Conflict such as this is strictly prohibited!"
The mercenaries and the giant of their leader are just paralyzed in disbelief, and then start roaring in laughter at the confused faces of the maids and Emilia. The leader approaches them casually as if they are nothing but prey and unsheathes a huge cleaver that is almost as tall as the maids. With a flick of a button, it starts emitting sparks of high-intensity plasma and he replies snarkily:
"Why miss Satella, Did you not witness the broadcast a few hours ago? Your Fiancé Subaru is already going to get fucked by all the S-ranked merc teams headed his way. Instead of us having to fight all that competition, we would much rather go for second prize. twenty million creds is not a bad deal for capturing ya, even if your little boyfriend's current bounty is at one hundred million.
Names Ark, and I lead my team of grunts with the wisdom to always choose the easier target. Three little girls, that are bumbling and lost in my area? Ha, I have been blessed by Kami-Sama today. Now put down those pitiful weapons or prepare for a world of hurt Satella-san, cause my patience is non-existent and my boys always enjoy showing their skills to new women!"
Both Rem and Ram grow furious at this pig's voice, especially at his comments about his men taking turns with them. And Emilia grows puzzled at being called a name she had never heard before. She motions for the maids to get ready for battle.
Rem grabs a handle from her waist and flicks it, and before the mercenaries astonished eyes a morning star erupts into existence from the nanites composing its shell while emitting a frozen aura. Ram unsheathes her weapon which turns out to look like an antique boomerang until she flicks it and it transforms into a nanorobotics boomerang that exudes violent winds from its unleashed state. Emilia herself flicks the two bracelets on each of her wrists and her gaze matches the temperature being unleashed in her radius, making the mercenaries shiver as if they were in Verkhoyansk, Russia. Where temperatures can reach negative fifty Celsius easily. and She coldly replies:
"I know no one by that name, and I only know Natsuki Subaru by name, but since you insist on confusing me for someone else and even deem to violate my maids while I am captured, we shall use our full force to counter-attack. So prepare yourself, Ark, for we are not gentle when being forced to another's will."
Arc swallowed his almost frozen saliva until he regained his senses and told his mercs and grunts:
"Assume battle positions you scum, activate your battle chips, and attack from a distance, I don't give a rat's arse what you do to the maids, but this Bitch Satella must remain alive. However, if she is harmed resisting capture? Hehe, then that is on her. CHARGE!."
And with that statement, the mercenaries erupted in a flurry of movement to their designated goal, while Rem, Ram, And Emilia prepared for battle, without the knowledge that this battle would influence pivotal events in this chaotic city.
AN:
Well this chapter was going to end up being almost 20K words if it kept on going, such as my passion. However I have not forgotten my Sagebaru fic, the only thing is I fell in love with the idea of portraying such a unique setting where hopefully the re zero characters are still in character, and rare moments of OC abound.
I could not have started this whole story without my loyal friend and brother Comrade Elmo. Thanks to him I am able to bounce back ideas back and forth, to make this story unique and enthralling as possible.
If plot still seems confusing do not worry, that is the point. This takes inspiration of how several Science Fiction movies, books, and media start. Where the character is thrust into action without us having any idea why. And them going back slowly so we can understand and see what went wrong. Chapter 4 will be Subaru's point of view halfway through the story, and explain in more detail just what in the bloody hell is going on.
I also have some other fic ideas that I will make one shots in the future. Picture of this story is a commission I got from the amazing Evon, showcasing a badass chase scene. Please leave reviews, comments, or your thoughts when possible. Thank you very much and until next chapter release of any of my fics.