[P25]
Although there is very little historical evidence of the so-called "HiME", there are numerous folktales that have derived from Earth. From what has been translated, there was a series of wars spanning several hundred years. Upon the conclusion of every battle, this "matsuri" (a festival, of sorts) vanishes for an extended period of time. Throughout the translated documentation, there is evidence of systematic pauses usually spanning a dozen centuries. Most peculiarly, each story includes the handling of what can only be described as a legendary SLAVE. These "SLAVEs" imprint upon a HiME (it's unknown as to why or how) establishing a "KEY" to unlock their powers. This KEY seems more sentimental than logical as every tale details a HiME's love for another unlocking their powers—whether romantic, sexual, platonic or otherwise. —Hibashira Archive, Page 13.
Deciphering the archives has been painstaking and the information is patchy at best. Oral myths speak of the plight of twelve HiME, however there are documented records of a thirteenth. It is unknown whether there's a limit on how many can participate in festivals. Evidence of this extra HiME suggests that their population was larger and may tie in with Garderobe's origin. This is clearly a possibility as knowledge of this extra HiME was discovered within Garderobe's archive. —Garderobe Records, Page 492, 12th Edition.
In the manuscript simply titled "Star" there was a crimson star that only the HiME could witness. Was this star similar to today's Administar? The book "Our Lady's Strife" seems to suggest this: "The azure jewel is our blessed guardian. It bestows upon us the strength to protect our world. Upon the naked skies we fly; free of chains as we defend our loved ones." —Our Lady's Strife, Page 03, 5th Edition.
Further, the Archmeister has |
Yohko's fingertips rested upon her keyboard as she stared at her screen feebly. Though she had proofread her paper a dozen times, something still felt amiss. Leaning back into her chair, she slid her hands against her face. It felt like this research was never ending.
Gazing down to her cluttered desk, a myriad of post-it notes greeted her. 'Document the dial-like structure that's appeared on the Administar.' — 'Type up Prisoner 17's evidence.' — 'Test the new batch of nanomachines.' — 'Make better hearing aids for the Archmeister.' — 'Take pills.' — 'Stop drinking.'
Achromatic Delirium's Theme: Taishi — Zerfall
"How long do you suppose it will remain calm like this?" Shizuru whispered into the nape of Natsuki's throat.
Unable to sleep away their persisting injuries, they had gladly taken to conversing the night away. Everything was discussed. From the Artai sanctions, the Grand Duchess... the Harmonium —to them. They were going to be alright, weren't they? The thought niggled inside the back of Shizuru's mind. For Founder's sake, not a week ago she had thought Natsuki was dying! She wouldn't allow such a thing to happen. Because if it did, all hell would break loose, and she would be within its epicentre. Nobody—absolutely no one—was taking Natsuki away from her.
"Hopefully forever." Natsuki grunted, adjusting herself beneath the Archmeister. Understandably, Shizuru hadn't left her side all week. She was terrified that she would up and disappear. Natsuki didn't blame her, not when she had destroyed the Harmonium screwed up and all. Already she had promised her Archmeister that she wouldn't vanish again. Though, it wasn't likely Shizuru would allow her to leave in the first place. "I feel awful."
"I am not surprised." Smoothing a hand along Natsuki's shoulder, Shizuru eased upwards. "Does it still hurt?"
"No… 'Just feels incredibly sore." The morphine nanomachines were doing wonders for her. How she had fought through the crisis without them was beyond her. Sighing, Natsuki angled her cheek into the cushion beneath her head. At least they were in their quarters, she supposed. They had dragged the settee by the windows so they had something to look at.
Shizuru hummed quietly, looking out as daybreak scaled upon the forest's canopy. They should probably sleep soon. Continuing this wasn't healthy. But even so… veering her gaze back down to the Headmistress, she loosely straddled her waist. "We should get married." She commented casually, languidly tracing a fingertip down Natsuki's long since healed skin graft. Light flooded into the room upon her declaration, the event blinding the Headmistress. "Right, Natsuki?" She smiled, lazily moving to block the rays, the action enveloping Natsuki within dimmed shade.
"R-Right. We were supposed to, weren't we?" So much has been happening recently. Even though Natsuki had confessed almost two years ago, it still felt like yesterday. It was terrifying to think that she had almost lost Shizuru to the Harmonium. The same organ which she had personally destroyed. During the moment she hadn't connected one and two together. Neither had she had the time to realise how ludicrous that whole scenario had been. A bygone cathedral had been hallucinated underneath Windbloom Castle. Because of… Steinberg's doppelgänger? None of it made sense!
"Natsuki, you are overthinking again."
"Ugh."
Shizuru chuckled, leaning down. "Natsuki is so cute." She cooed, gently landing a kiss upon the younger Meister's cheek.
"Am no—hmph." Slinging her arms around the Archmeister, lips which had been against her cheek captured hers. "'Zuruhg." She muffled nearly incoherently, not having the heart to push the older woman away. So instead, her hands slid up Shizuru's back, crisscrossing as her fingers hooked her shoulders—
—Shizuru's ethereal surroundings crumbled.
Coming to, she found herself within the Underground Facility's intensive care chamber. The exhausted Archmeister wearily stared down at her prone Headmistress. All manner of wires and machines were attached to Natsuki, keeping her alive. Releasing a broken sigh, Shizuru encased her face within her hands. "Natsuki…" She hoarsely whispered, her throat feeling tight. "When will you wake…? Please. I need you." Emphasis burst through Shizuru's voice; her shoulders sagging as though the entire world weighed against them. This was all she wanted: For Natsuki to be conscious and well. So why did such a feat feel impossible? S-she…
For the first time in a fortnight, the Archmeister quaked. A sob escaped from her, swiftly followed by the next.
Why was it so cruel? Ever since that Godforsaken faux bomb, it had all gone downhill. N-none… of i-t makes sense…! An aggressive burst of anger flayed Shizuru's mind: How dare anyone attempt to ruin their happiness? Ugh, her head was throbbing again.
After a while, Shizuru delicately wiped her sore eyes. Then, she winced upon one of her hearing aids shrieking. Pulling the things out, she threw them against the nearby nightstand. There they continued their protests, now unheard by the Archmeister. Out of sight and out of mind from her migraine-induced psyche.
She hated them.
They made her feel weak.
So desperately Shizuru wished she could do away with them.
"—...chmeis…?"
At first she did not turn to greet her unexpected visitor. Gradually, tired crimson veered towards the woman who approached.
"How…—you feel—?" Yukariko asked, pushing a glass of tea into Shizuru's hands. She had one as well, her free hand dragging a chair beside the Archmeister's. A brittle silence immediately followed them. Yukariko could not blame her. Eventually, she forced herself to speak: "...When I firs' started teach…—at Garder—I didn't believe…—had earned it." Yukariko's gaze remained locked upon the unconscious Headmistress as she revealed this secret. "After…— abuse from my former—I felt tainted... 'How can—Otome have…—to train the future gener—?', I…—myself."
Shizuru warily looked at her. Was Yukariko talking about the abuse she had experienced with her previous Master? She had never told anyone about this before.
"During my interview, I…—find Natsuki amazing. You could tell she had—Yet… she became one of our strongest leaders." The teacher imparted, gingerly guiding her steaming tea to her lips.
Usually a Headmistress—or rarely, Headmeister—would last a few years at most. Leading Garderobe was an excruciating ordeal. There were all manner of juridictions, ceremonies and other responsibilities to obey. So many had snapped beneath the weight of duty.
"I feel weak. I do not deserve my title or Natsuki." Shizuru's voice was so low it was almost inaudible. Oh, the things she would change if she could manipulate time.
"Even though you're…—among us?" Yukariko enquired of her. The Archmeister has become humbled. "Without…—Garder—and everyone…—would have…—. You are not weak. It takes immense…—to…—when nothing seems t—"
"—Stop."
Interjected by the Archmeister, Yukariko could only force a sad smile. Once more, the two of them fell mute. It was evident that the Archmeister was having difficulty hearing her properly. But she was stubborn. In more ways than one, both Natsuki and Shizuru were alike.
They had been going backwards and forwards like this for several days now. Nothing substantial seemed to be working, but Yukariko was painstakingly getting through. With any luck, Natsuki would awaken soon.
The clock above them ticked, distractingly echoing throughout the chamber. Upon the time reaching ten o'clock, the hour-hand clicked loudly. At this, the teacher's gaze turned to Shizuru. "...She has medic—nano…—flowing through her veins. She will—..."
She could hardly hear a word Yukariko was saying. But she couldn't care less to reveal the revelation. Only a few knew that she now has partial hearing. Shizuru's fingers twitched as she reached for Natsuki's wrist anxiously. Taped to the back of her hand was a transparent tube. This was where the medicalised nanomachines were injected daily. Stroking her Headmistress' knuckles, Shizuru did not respond to Yukariko gripping her shoulder.
"—ko mentioned…—few hours." Yukariko said, standing beside the seated Archmeister. "Remember…—tea." As the teacher turned to leave, a tired voice hindered her.
"Thank you, Yukariko. I am sorry that I am in this state. I just…" Shizuru sighed, her gaze moving to the tea still within her other hand. She couldn't continue, the words were fleeting.
"I understand, take…—"
Left alone, the clock above twanged Shizuru's patience. Why can she hear it, yet with anything else she may as well be totally deaf? As well, her mental wellbeing was like a rollercoaster spinning out of control. If only the figurative emergency brake existed, for without notice, Shizuru felt she'd crash and burn. Frequently she had caught herself having strange episodes. An awful migraine would start first, then her surroundings would blur and her ears would ring. It was like she was getting dragged underwater and having her reality freeze all at once. What… is that? The Archmeister did not know.
Impasse III: Achromatic Delirium
By Twisted Eternal Wolvetta
"You should hear me loud and clear shortly." Yohko spoke concisely by Shizuru's ear, seated beside her on an old office swivel chair. Before them was a microphone. The medical scientist eased close to her, using a pin to pry the Archmeister's GEM open. But this was far easier said than done. Yohko grumbled under her breath, adjusting her magnifying eyeglass. After what felt like aeons, the GEM's miniscule hatch opened, revealing a computer jack. "I am inserting the tele-coil now."
The moment her GEM was hooked to the microphone, Shizuru heard all manner of things. She could even hear the water dripping from the sink across the lab…! How on Earl do these work?
"How w-ell can you he…—me?" Yohko pulled back, standing her full height before her.
"Almost perfectly."
"This mi-crophone records at…—heightened 40hz, twice the range humans usually hear…—'Programmed it to automatically shrink down to…—20hz range. The audio you're hea-ring should sound much clearer. How do the earpieces feel?"
It certainly sounded decipherable so far. Shizuru gently touched the lobes of her ears. Both earpieces had been paired to her GEM and were even powered by her nanomachines. Unfortunately, it was the first prototype of its kind. "They feel like they will slide out any moment."
"I w-ill have to adjust them then. Do they feel too small?" Yohko scooped at the desk, scribbling down on one of her post-it notes.
How does she keep track of these all? Shizuru watched the medical scientist, before veering her gaze across this desk. There were practically hundreds of these notes everywhere. Her handwriting was atrocious as well. "It is hard to say… they feel the correct size. Maybe the material is wrong?"
"Too slippery?"
"Perhaps."
"For now, please continue wearing your temporary hearing aids. I…—have the earpieces a-djusted in a few days."
Unfortunate. Shizuru's focus moved to them which were beside the microphone. Reluctantly, she carefully removed the earpieces, setting them down upon the desk. Their faint lights shut off, declaring they had unpaired themselves. "What about Natsuki? You said earlier that there is a new batch of nanomachines?"
Once the Archmeister had inserted the hearing aids, Yohko nodded. "Yeah, they'...—ready." Rounding the desk, she inputted a password on the holographic laptop. On the other side of the platform, a door within the wall slid open. "Follow…—into storage. I ha-ve the nanomachines stored…—liquid nitrogen."
Within this chamber, Shizuru was ushered into a protective lab coat with gloves included. She felt rather ridiculous in this getup.
"Stand back…—where the nano…—are contained." The medical scientist was positioned by a wall terminal. Inputting another password followed by a command, the wall by Shizuru lowered. A mechanical hum radiated inside the room as a stacked shelf then raised. Another command was issued, vents whirling to life around them.
The Archmeister could only stand by idly, watching the gloved scientist head for an inconspicuous box. Upon it Shizuru could clearly see a fingerprint scanner. Did all of these containers have such high security, or was it just for the Columns? Her gaze studied this shelf, examining the others. Every single box was sealed behind glass and had its own terminal. It did indeed seem the case that every container received the same amount of care. "Are all nanomachines stored here?"
"They are." Yohko nodded, slipping safety glasses from out of her pocket. Equipping them, she opened the glass. As this commenced, liquid nitrogen billowed outwards, momentarily enveloping Yohko. "I e-ven have yours somewhere in here." Holding the box securely, Yohko shooed Shizuru towards the nearby table. Setting it atop this workspace, she removed a glove gingerly. "...—wonders of cryogenics." Hovering her index finger towards the scanner, a loud beep ricocheted the chamber, causing the box to open. She raised her arm, signalling the Archmeister away. Another cloud of liquid nitrogen rose from the box, pooling down the sides.
A vial was presented to Shizuru. The liquid was bright orange, looking identical to a fizzy pop brand. "This—" Yohko started, holding it within both gloved hands securely. "—has nanomachines in-side. All…—need next is a sample of the Headmistress' blood. Do…—have your permission?"
But… why? The Archmeister's gaze remained trained upon the vial. Nanomachines were usually injected straight into the bloodstream. "Do these respond differently from other medical ones?"
"Absolutely…—not yet sure whether they'll sim-ply attack her dormant nano…—I will need…—observe them for several days first."
What… should she do? It was rather frightening that she could freely give Natsuki's consent. But… there was no one else who could do it. Ultimately it was herself who was second-in-command of Garderobe. Decision made after careful thought, Shizuru raised a hand to her GEM's intercom. "I, Shizuru Viola, the Archmeister, give Yohko Helene permission to extract blood from Natsuki Kruger, the Headmistress." Finalising the recording, the Founder's voice loomed within her head: [Message recorded on the twenty-eighth of June 224 at 1:11pm].
"Thank you, Archmeister."
A Fortnight Later.
"That's the Archmeister!"
Ah, these new hearing aids truly were wondrous. As long as there wasn't too much noise, she could hear pretty clearly now. How odd indeed that she could no longer filter noise levels well. If numerous people spoke at once, their voices would stick together and become incomprehensible.
Standing beside Yukariko by Garderobe's entrance, she awaited their brand new students.
Due to Schwartz and Artai's sickening practices, most of their current students were absent. Many had either dropped out or were receiving counselling. For the first time in Garderobe's history, these Corals wouldn't have the guidance of Pearls. Only the Trias had remained strong enough to continue their studies.
"Archmeister." Yukariko discreetly eased closer. "The Florentine and Chaldean Meister Otome are starting to arrive in Sandport. Should I give Yumemiya the authorisation to guide them here?"
"Yes, please do." Shizuru nodded.
She remembered the excitement of her enrollment. It was unfortunate that this was only an initial reaction for these girls. Chaos would soon ensue when they realised how heavy their incoming workload would become. Shizuru smiled, reminiscing upon happier times.
"Yumemiya, guide them to Garderobe, please. The new students have just arrived." Yukariko spoke into her intercom. As this proceeded, the students gleefully passed them by, most gawking at them. Or rather, the Archmeister was marvelled upon. The teacher eyed Shizuru in response. Her hearing aids would light up whenever sound was registered—the students had noticed it remarkably fast. Though, why Yohko had chosen to make them flashy was beyond her. It did weirdly add to the Archmeister's mystique though. Perhaps that was the ideology at play here?
"Girls, pay attention." Miss Maria alerted the fresh Corals, having been stewarding them along the entrance pathway. "You're to meet the Grandmeister in her memorial."
As the group headed for the memorial steps, Yukariko fully turned to Shizuru. "How are you feeling today?"
"I had another nightmare." Shizuru forced a smile at her. She did not explain herself, simply starting a languid stride after the group. They fell silent, her train of thought making her distant.
It was an awful dream: One which would return Natsuki to her, only to snatch her away again. It always started the same, but the conclusion would vary. Shizuru would be on the opposite side of a desolate road. Natsuki would wave to her, and naturally Shizuru would attempt to cross. But…? It began with Natsuki simply disappearing. Upon every cycle, the dream had become more bloodcurdling. Sometimes her Headmistress was run over. Other times a mystery Otome would slice her to bits. But the worst outcome…? She had experienced it tonight. The limousine was present this time and it was rigged to blow. The bomb had not been a fake.
The Archmeister's eyes went distant.
She had held her lover's charred remains within her arms.
Her name was spoken not once, nor twice, but thrice before her focus was garnered. Sluggishly, Shizuru returned to reality, only now noticing Yukariko standing before her.
"Are you alright? Shizuru, you look like you've seen a ghost."
"...I may have." Shizuru murmured, her voice waning, crossing her arms protectively. Gaze veering, she looked elsewhere. Oh how she despised this. Her façade was practically nonexistent these days. Is it because of Natsuki…? "I do not wish to speak of it."
"Well, if you're sure?" There was no helping it, Yukariko supposed. They picked up their pace, but were soon interrupted. Heavy footfalls careened after them, making them both spin around with caution.
"Archmeister Shizuru! Miss Steinberg!" Much to their surprise, Arika Yumemiya was sprinting their way. Trying to stop, she practically came barrelling into the two. That is, until both women side-stepped at the last moment. "T-the others will be here soo-n… Maybe." She clasped her hands to her knees, panting.
"Arika? Did you run the entire way?" Yukariko enquired.
"Sure did!"
She's as energetic as ever. Shizuru forced a smile, though understood what this meant. "You should be guiding them here." She pointed out, causing Arika to spin on her heel.
"I was sent over. Meister Blythe is chasing Akane and Emperor Krau-xeku."
"Again?" Both women asked in unison.
"Oh, and Shiho and Rosalie have gone missing."
Yukariko could only sigh. "Thank you for telling me, Arika." This probably meant that the student ceremony and funeral would be delayed. "Archmeister, what do you propose we do?"
It was certainly an awkward situation. "Meister Blythe is more than capable of handling the Emperor and Meister Soir." Claudel and Huit on the other hand… Shizuru mused thoughtfully, wondering who could—"Have Meister Bianchi and Meister Zhang search for them."
Ah of course, those two. Yukariko nodded, walking ahead to make the calls.
"Archmeister Shizuru, when did you get those cool hearing aids?"
Shizuru slowly turned her head to regard the Sky Blue Sapphire. She mildly wondered if she should ask Yohko to switch off the lights. Though she had mentioned they do not flash when her pulse rises. In theory, anyway. "It just so happens, I received them today." Arika's expression lit up at the revelation. "A reaction like that from all cute girls would surely cure deafness within an instant." She chuckled languidly, her casual flirt setting the Otome's face on fire. Though… Shizuru's heart sank. She missed the responses she could entice from Natsuki. Is this how Natsuki felt when she was lost to the Harmonium?
"Archmeister?" Arika was waving a palm in front of her face, causing her to blink slowly.
"Sorry. I was away with the fairies."
"Fairies are mean! Grandma always used to say that they'd mug you!"
Taken aback by the sudden outburst, Shizuru shook her head, smiling. "Come, before the students are enrolled without us." Not that this would truly happen. After all, the Archmeister had a big part to play within the ceremony.
Half an hour later, Shizuru found herself slotted between Sarah and Chie.
"The others still haven't shown up." Chie stated the obvious, crossing her arms loosely. She had travelled all the way from Aries, and yet the literal neighbours were late. Isn't that typical.
All around them, the new students were excitedly making friends. Some loved their new uniforms—others hated them. They were unbelievably boisterous. Such things were always like this initially. But, the excitement and lack of discipline would soon be ironed out. It inevitably would, thanks to Miss Maria.
"We may be forced to start without them." Shizuru murmured, pushing from off the wall she had been leaning against. The noise around her was awfully disorientating. Every source was blending together like a tornado and making her ears ring. That, and she had caught the girls stealing glances at her. It's not like it was anything new, per say, but she was feeling rather self-conscious. "I will discuss the situation with Miss Maria." With herself dismissed, she leisurely strode alongside the wall.
It was absolutely crammed in the Founder's Memorial.
Students, nobility, both current and retired Meister Otome, Masters… the list continued on. Stretching her neck, the Archmeister searched the bustling crowd. The Epitome of Grace was nowhere to be seen.
Ugh. Her migraine was returning.
"Shizuru?" Senses dulling and her reality slowing, Shizuru hesitantly paused. The impossible was behind her. "It's your arm." The hallucinatory Headmistress seized her limb and pulled up her sleeve. She did not dare look at Natsuki, fearing something monstrous hounded her. Alas… for the faux Natsuki raised Shizuru's arm, forcing her to witness her hand.
Impaled deeply within the flesh were cursed crystals. They littered down to her forearm, spreading sickening infection and crystalline streams. She—No. Shizuru felt ill.
Then, her vision started blackening within the centre until she saw nothing. Except…—a man? "Hello…?" Who is that…? She could not tell, everything sounded watery. "Shizuru!" Sight regained, the fluorescent lights skywards burned her eyes. Visibly wincing, Shizuru wavered slightly.
"Y-yes?" She cupped her brow, trying to quickly recuperate. What in Gods' name had that been?! Fumi, her head feels like it's getting stabbed. Worse yet, Shizuru hadn't a clue who was calling out her name.
At that moment, the Archmeister collapsed.
Machines droned within the Underground Facility. The hum washed over the half-unconscious Shizuru. Eyes fluttering open, she peered up into the dim ceiling. What? Hadn't she just been in the Founder's Memorial? Sitting up from the…camp bed?—Shizuru looked around the laboratory in confusion.
"Archmeister. You've been out like a light for most of the day."
Yohko sounded closeby, but she was unable to find her. That is, until she caught sight of a large stack of books by a settee. The medical scientist was sitting there, a leg crossed atop the other. With a book in hand, her gaze landed upon Shizuru's. "What happened?"
'Garderobe: Past, Present and Future'. Why is she reading that?
Swallowing, Shizuru's mouth went dry. Actually, she couldn't remember? Only that… something relating to her hand? Raising it, she apprehensively stared at her scarred skin. Evidence of the crystals were there, but they had long ago been removed. How had she known about this? Her memory felt fragmented. "I…"
"Don't know?" Yohko supplied, throwing the book aside on the settee and standing. "The Brigadier carried you here, you know?" She halted before Shizuru, shoving her hands into her pockets casually. A small smile graced her lips. "She looked terrified—for once."
Haruka had? "I shall have to thank her later, then." Clearly taken aback, Shizuru could only sit there. What was going on? "Has the enrollment assembly already concluded?"
"Unfortunately, yes. But it's just past six, so you have a while until the funeral."
That's… Shizuru sighed. She rarely if ever missed things such as these. Since Haruka had been the one to hightail her here, the entire academy probably knew now. The Brigadier had never been one for subtlety.
But, now that she's here, Shizuru felt she should see Natsuki. Her gaze wandered towards the large metal door, but Yohko had her sussed out already.
"The door's unlocked. I have left some water and chocolate there for you."
"...Thank you." The Archmeister could only scurry towards the door. Everyone was able to read her so easily now. She hated it. But ah? Yohko had evidently assumed she had just fainted. As she approached the door, the heavy chunk of metal rose. Is this what overthinking feels like? Natsuki had to deal with this on a daily basis?
Founder, it's awful.
Alas, for the horrendous feeling transformed into something worse. A wave of nausea overwhelmed her upon entering the intensive care chamber. "This is not real…" She slurred, her speech sounding incredibly unnatural suddenly. Again her surroundings started to blanken, until…
"—meister? Archmeister?" "—Move out of the way, g' her spa—"
Shizuru's eyes shot open.
Much to her surprise, she was back in the Founder's Memorial. Above her was none other than Haruka, Yukino, Yukariko and other staff members.
"Are you alright?" The President asked, reaching for Shizuru's hand to help pull her up. Shizuru accepted the offer, but flinched a moment later, staring at her palm. "...Shizuru?"
"I…" Could no one see the crystals? Genuine fear started welling within Shizuru. What is going on?! Jagged crystals were tearing into her flesh through her uniform. They did not hurt but oh, her head…!
"Yukariko." Miss Maria's voice loomed above the amalgamated noise behind Haruka. "Call for Dr. Helene."
At this moment, Shizuru was hoisted up by Haruka and Chie—where had she come from? "I—I am fine!"
"You should hear yourself." Haruka grumbled. What the hell is going on with Shizuru lately, anyway? It made sense with Kruger being incapacitated, but this? She's way over her head this time. A sudden struggle commenced, followed by the Archmeister's elbow hitting her jaw. "B-bagh?!"
Fighting her way out of their hold, Shizuru made an unsteady stride towards the exit. This isn't real either. Everything felt so vague and others were appearing from nowhere. Lieutenant Major Hallard shouldn't be here yet. Neither was Haruka and the President. Were the tell-tale signs of insanity…? Shizuru shook her head, now sitting before the medical scientist.
"Shizuru, are y—"
"—Please! I am going insane!" The Archmeister seized Yohko's lab coat lapels, dragging her close. The spooked medical scientist stared at her, her gaze slowly moving to her arm. "Unexplainable things keep happening to me! Today—yesterday? I—"
Gently, Yohko held Shizuru's arm, freezing her in her tracks. "Shizuru…—deep breaths. It…—twenty-ei…—June… 'hour ago, you…—permission to …—Natsuki's blood." The more Yohko explained the situation, the greater the terror graced Shizuru's face. "Now…—calmly: What …—experiencing?"
Shizuru's environment was cloudy, like mist engulfed her. Founder, her ears! They were ringing something awful. S-She… clenching her jaw, her head pulled downwards. "...I… I—like my world is tipped upside down." The words choked upon gasped breaths. The attempt to describe her plight slammed to a standstill. Much to her horror, Shizuru realised she couldn't explain it.
"Shizuru. Calm."
Releasing her hold upon Yohko, Shizuru's arms fell limp within her lap. "I… I see things which do not exist or are yet to happen. Or… should have not…—" She shook her head again with frustration. "When I escaped the Harmonium, I had crystals embedded into my arm." Shizuru levelled her gaze with Yohko. "I still see them."
"...In your arm?" The colour drained from Yohko's face.
"I feel like I am in a lucid nightmare. The background is always cloudy, I cannot read anyone like I used to—" Shizuru paused. Should she be revealing this? What if this is another episode? The prospect sent her mind reeling.
The inputting of numbers on the telephone derailed Shizuru's train of thought. Yohko was now making a call.
"Shizuru." She covered the receiver with her hand. "I am…—Columns…—guidance is needed—"
"Meister Blythe is searching for the Emperor and Meister Soir." The Archmeister pointed out, though Yohko was adamant about this. Wait… was Mahya looking for them? Now she wasn't sure.
"If this…—think this…—your life…—danger."
This instantaneously silenced Shizuru. She might know what this is? She wearily stole a glance at her arm which was again covered in crystalline razors. They looked like the ones that the Schwartz had used. But how was this possible? She had been injured during the chaos of the Harmonium. To this day, Shizuru doesn't know how it happened.
"This is…—in the Undergro…—lity…—emergency. Your presence…—required immedi—" Yohko listened carefully to the confusion on the other end. "Galla—" Settling a hand upon the phone's receiver again, she spoke to Shizuru: "Blythe…—found the Emperor and Soir—" She strained to hear, frowning. "...Gallagher is coming…—held up by traffic. As for Zhang…"
The Archmeister sighed. She wasn't sure if she wanted Nao to know anything about this.
"I'm here!" Nao's unmistakable voice sang from the steep steps. Cutting her intercom's link, she sauntered down the steps. "What's up?" Why did Viola look petrified? Nao halted at the final step, feeling rather disconcerted by the Archmeister's reaction. She looked similar to how she had when Kruger had been shot.
"I will discuss…—details when…—arrive." Yohko ushered her closer while opening the cupboard doors beneath her desk. Here she pulled out a coffee machine and placed it on top of the counter. "Would you like coffee?" She asked. Plugging it into the desk's power outlet.
"I'm killing for one."
"Go…—fill this jug. 'sink is…—corner over…—" Yohko pulled said object from the cupboard and pointed over to the sink. As this order was obeyed, Yohko transferred her attention back to Shizuru. She was still seated upon the camp bed and was incredibly silent. She couldn't read a single emotion upon her face. "Archmeister." She lifted her voice, making her refocus. "I have no tea, would coffee suffice?"
"Make it strong, please."
Several minutes later, Shizuru had a steaming glass of coffee within her hands. Peering into the umber contents, she felt as though she could become lost within its swirl. Were these hallucinations bound to her now? Would she experience these permanently? It's… A sigh released from her.
"As weird as people are—especially Kruger—they won't stop loving you, you know?" Nao had come to stand by her side, sipping her coffee casually. The fellow Column eyed Shizuru, catching sight of her temporary hearing aids. "How's the ears? Has Helene made you better ones yet?"
Surprised by Nao's sharpness, Shizuru hummed. "Thank you, I… Yes, she made a prototype recently." Or was that today? Founder, save her. It was strange though; she could distinctly understand Nao. It's not that she was speaking louder. Just… her voice seemed easier? "You are one of the few with a voice I can interpret efficiently.
Nao made a disgusted noise. "You're the last person I want to hear that from."
They stared at each other for a moment.
"Perhaps." Shizuru chuckled, before drawing out another sigh.
"—orry I'm 'ate!" Sarah Gallagher came rushing down the steps. Walking to Yohko, she asked: "What…—situa—?" Receiving a simple point towards Nao and Shizuru, she nodded, heading their way. "—meister?"
"Hello." Shizuru forced a smile, patting beside her on the camp bed.
"What's happened?"
"The entire world happened, perhaps." The Archmeister joked weakly, only saying this.
Sarah could only glance at Nao who shrugged.
"—raffic's brutal outside… 'think the entire…—Windbloom is outside Garder—" Though, this didn't surprise the Alpha Column. Garderobe was withdrawing the whole Otome population. "—...rumours flying —former Meister are arriv—"
Depending on who those former Meister Otome were, that could be dangerous. Shizuru finally took a sip of her coffee. This tasted like… hazelnut? "They should have a Meister Otome guard them." She murmured, her lips close to the rim of the glass. Both for precaution against corruption and their own protection.
"I agree." Sarah nodded, Nao doing so as well. The Alpha Column made a call to Miss Maria, issuing their concerns. "—afternoon, Miss Maria. By…—have you seen any former 'eister Oto—?" Apart from Sarah's conversation with the Epitome of Grace, silence flooded the laboratory once more. "You have?" After a few moments of going back and forth, Sarah ended the call. "There —former Mei…—present already. Elliot Chandler is…—here."
"The previous Alpha Column?" Shizuru finally spoke again. Honestly, she thought she had died.
"Isn't she the one who was crazy about Sayers then disappeared when she was killed?" Nao asked, finishing her coffee.
"Yes…—position had been empty for eight…—until I…—her."
"Fumi knows best, as they say." Nao's gaze drifted to the Founder's System. "And she's still dormant." Well. Nao shrugged again. "There's nothing we can do about it."
At this moment, their final Column at last arrived.
"…—here. What's the issue?" Mahya strode down the stairs, greeted by Nao who strolled over.
"It's not like you to be late."
"Don't get…—started. Those…—real pain in the ass."
"Touché."
Shizuru meanwhile, wasn't sure whether to follow everyone to Yohko. Their small talk had distracted her away from her situation. Alas, because she was increasingly aware of it now. Staring into her half empty glass, confusion basked within her psyche. Some Otome grew so accustomed to their GEM that they just… declined in power. Others—like Rena Sayers—were outrageously devastating. So much so, that their GEMs would simply explode. Yet herself? What was happening to her? Only Schwartz's involvement had drawn madness. No way had Schwartz infiltrated the… lands of Harmonium.
"Shizuru." Yohko summoned her, wafting her hand. Once the Archmeister stood with them by the desk, she asked: "Would you prefer the prototype hearing aids?"
"Yes please."
"…—been meaning…—ask about these. How are…—?" Mahya enquired, loosely crossing her arms and leaning on one leg towards her.
"They are perfect. It is almost as though my hearing was never affected."
"Definitely…—plus, then." Though after all, it was the work of their one and only medical scientist. "As always…—know no bounds, Helene." She smirked at Yohko.
"It's the least I could do." Oh, these sweet summer children. They had no idea, did they? All Yohko had done was grab a 40k hz microphone and attach a GEM-compatible tele-coil. The prototype hearing aids were her own make, but they were mostly copied from older models. It was nothing they needed to know about, though. Setting this microphone up, she placed it between them all. "Archmeister, your hearing aids are in the case here." She handed this over, carefully slotting the tele-coil into the microphone.
"Those look fancy." Sarah remarked, angling herself closer to Shizuru in order to see. "But…" Her attention returned to Yohko, as did the others. "…—the emergency?"
"It involves myself." Shizuru spoke instead, figuring she should personally reveal it. They needed to be informed of her current circumstances. She knew this, as did all Meister Otome. Situations—no matter their severity—must be made known to colleagues. "Recently I have been having episodes." She paused, removing her temporary hearing aids and equipping the new ones. "...When I survived the Harmonium's embrace, I was mysteriously injured by crystals. However…" She calmly downcast her eyes to her forementioned arm. "I see them whenever I have one of these episodes." There's nothing there.
"Like hallucinations?" Sarah asked, her voice much clearer now.
"Maybe… though it is hard to say. It feels as though I am in another world entirely. Albeit hazy and not making sense." She smiled, but it didn't reach her eyes. "Perhaps it is closer to a lucid nightmare."
"What if you expose her to the crystals?" Nao suggested to Yohko, causing the medical scientist to stare at her aghast.
"Those crystals have a mysterious power source—one I haven't been able to distinguish. I would be a fool to endanger the Archmeister like that."
"Eh, it was an idea." The corner of Nao's lips raised momentarily.
"Then, what are we to do?" Mahya asked. They couldn't just do nothing.
"First call of order is to see whether the crystals react to the Bewitching Smile Amethyst itself. This would also allow us to know whether the episodes happen when the nanomachines are dormant."
"But…" Sarah started. "The Founder's System already is. All we can do with dormant GEMs is make calls."
"The GEMs aren't completely dormant." Yohko shook her head. "When a GEM remains unpowered, the nanomachines are inactive. It's when the GEM is removed that things get complicated. They will gradually break up within the bloodstream, which as you can imagine, can be deadly. Because the Columns have the most powerful type, this is all the more lethal."
"How many days would I survive without my GEM?" Shizuru asked. Though she did wonder why this was never mentioned during her education. Perhaps it's not as severe for students? Though that begged the question for the Meister Otome: "Why is this information not within Garderobe's curriculum?"
"I know why." Everyone looked at Nao who shook her head as though it was obvious. "The students would drop like flies." Receiving added odd looks, she scoffed. "They'd challenge each other to see how long they'd last."
"But that's—" Sarah began, but was interrupted by Nao.
"—Insane? People are dumb."
"Nevertheless." Yohko refocused them. "The longest I would dare you to not wear your GEM is two days, Shizuru."
Well, it was better than not trying anything at all. Raising her hands to her GEM, Shizuru skimmed her fingertips along the hot jewellery. A static sensation bolting through her fingertips hindered her, causing her to stare at the desk.
"Archmeister?"
"My GEM feels unusual. Almost like there is an electric current within it." But that isn't possible, for GEMs had no electricity. Was this something far more serious than she first believed? Yohko approached her swiftly, touching along her GEM before flinching. "...Yohko? Are you alright?"
The medical scientist stared at her, brunette hair beginning to lift as though static went through.
The Columns witnessed something from Yohko which very rarely happened.
"Quickly! Remove it!"
B-but why? Shizuru obeyed, first taking out her hearing aids and unpinning the GEM from her earlobe. However, just as the GEM reached Yohko's palm… An alarm from the intensive care chamber screamed, echoing through the facility. Downright unadulterated terror enbraced Shizuru to the core, her very soul filling with dread. That is Natsuki's heart monitor flat-lining.
Yohko was the first to bolt, second was Shizuru. What awaited them within this room wasn't a shimmering corpse, but in actuality, an attentive Headmistress.
"I had to take the thing off." Natsuki tiredly remarked, the pair's eyes directing to the finger clip and unattached wires.
Oh, Natsuki… she looked so…
Shizuru was glued to the spot, staring at her in a loss. Natsuki's hair was ragged and scrawny. Her skin was so incredibly pale she'd think Natsuki is dead. But she's here… alive and well. Unless this is an illusion. Their eyes remained locked in a staring contest for a solid moment. That is, until Yohko nudged Shizuru forward. Jolted from her confusion, Shizuru stepped forward hesitantly. Another foot followed, and soon she rushed to her bedside. Grappling the Headmistress, Shizuru sobbed earnestly into her middle.
"Whoa, whoa, whoa. What's up, Shizuru?" Natsuki, nonplussed by her Archmeister's behaviour, hovered her hands above Shizuru's shoulders. Helplessly she shot a look at Yohko for help, the others close on her heels.
"I—I am s-so glad… I-I th-though y-you had—u-gh."
"It's been a rollercoaster without you, Headmistress." Yohko could only smile, heading over with Nao, Mahya and Sarah.
Natsuki had awoken without the help of more medical nanomachines.
Still propped up in bed, Natsuki rubbed her brow, sighing. Why could they never catch a break? "So that's what happened." Yohko had informed her of everything that had occurred since she had collapsed. But, more importantly… Shizuru's in danger. Natsuki's eyes cast to the Archmeister who sat closest on a chair. She refused to look at her, increasing her concern. "Shizuru, look at me." Reaching for her unscarred hand, Natsuki held it gently. Slowly but surely, their eyes locked. "What…—" She took a breath. "—...Happened?"
Yohko stood to leave, herding the other Columns to do the same. "If you need me, I'll be in the laboratory."
A creeping silence flooded the intensive care chamber.
Even though Yohko had made Natsuki aware of the situation, Shizuru couldn't bear to say it. How could she? Founder, she doesn't know if this is even real! What if this is another cruel hallucination—or whatever this is. "I—" The sentence jammed within Shizuru's throat before she could complete it. Even though it may seem simple to confess she has episodes, it…— "I cannot…" She held a breath, clenching her molars together.
"I get it. It's fine, take your time." Natsuki squeezed her hand encouragingly.
Natsuki needed to know. "When I… When I escaped the Harmonium, there were crystals." She received a slow nod of understanding. "...These crystals…—" Shizuru shook her head. This wasn't the perfect answer. "Sometimes I still see them in my arm even though they are not." The Archmeister dared to steal a glance at Natsuki. She appeared deep in thought, eyes set upon their entwined fingers. "Nats—"
"—Sorry." Natsuki delicately itched her cheek's old skin graft. "It's just that I'm having trouble comprehending it." Shizuru of all people seemed to be hallucinating. How could this happen to somebody so strong? How was it fair? "What happens during this? Does it… try to trick you?"
"Maybe." Shizuru sighed, easing her hand from Natsuki's. Cupping her shoulder, she slowly rotated it. Ever since fracturing it during the SLAVE battle, it hadn't been the same. "I noticed it imitates my poor hearing, but at other times does not. I am yet to distinguish what is different, but…"
"...But?"
"It feels like a lucid nightmare." Shizuru repeated what she had told Yohko.
"Hm, well." Natsuki lifted the thin blanket from off herself, revealing white shorts and a shirt. Gingerly she eased her feet to the cold metal. Much to the apprehension of Shizuru. "It's fine." She assured her, sluggishly lifting—Natsuki would have done so alone, but Shizuru stood. The Archmeister's arm supported her, Natsuki's body slotting against hers. "A-ah, thanks."
Now standing, they faced one another. An additional moment ticked as they stared, before Natsuki broke the silence.
"I wanna get out of here. Can you help me persuade Yohko?"
"That is…" Natsuki stared at her with mild confusion. Is this real? Would Natsuki s—
"—Shizuru." Raising her hands, Natsuki cupped her cheeks gently. "I think I know what's going on. Are you thinking this is another episode?" Receiving a hesitant nod, she smoothed a thumb along Shizuru's jawline in thought. How could she convince her that this is indeed reality? "What do you experience during your episodes? Emotions? Senses? Thoughts?"
"Hm…" Shizuru lifted her own hands to seize Natsuki's forearms in some semblance of mental support. "It feels so… vague, so… cloudy?"
"Are you feeling that now?"
No. She was not, Shizuru realised. A wave of respite swarmed Shizuru before leaving just as quickly. "No, but—"
"—I am here. I am going nowhere."
That's… That's what Shizuru had told Natsuki when she awoke after her ordeal in the Harmonium. She choked on an intake of breath. "N-N-atsuki." She mumbled almost incoherently, her lips starting to tremble. She was swept up into a tight embrace which made her chin land against Natsuki's shoulder. "I-I—"
"I understand. I get it."
At some point, Shizuru's legs buckled beneath her, causing them both to topple. For quite a time they stayed like this, retaining what little rationale was left.
Minutes—or perhaps hours—passed before Shizuru teetered to her feet. "You are not leaving my sight for the entire day." She declared to Natsuki, heaving the Headmistress up. Grabbing her wrist and forearm, their lips almost brushed before Shizuru sobered. Smiling, she eased away to a respectable distance.
"Are you sure you're fine now?"
"For now."
Grabbing Shizuru's hand, they carefully exited the intensive care chamber. Here Yohko was typing away but instantly stopped upon noticing them.
"Archmeister, Headm—"
"—It's fine." Natsuki stressed, pulling her shirt down a little to show the bandaged gauze. "I'm breathing fine. If I'm having trouble, we'll call, alright?"
Yohko could only respond by chewing her lip. A moment later she shook her head, sighing. "Alright. But if anything crops up—anything!—then tell me immediately, got it?"
"Thanks, Yohko." Natsuki grinned, tugging Shizuru a little behind her. Shizuru only smiled helplessly, quickening her pace to walk beside her Headmistress.
Once Natsuki had dressed and both Columns had departed, the medical scientist flopped downwards. Resting her forehead against her desk's edge, she grumbled. Those two would never change, would they?
"How's your hearing aids? Do I need to speak louder?"
Hadn't she removed these when taking off her GEM? Shizuru's heart missed a beat. "N-No, you sound perfect." No, no, no. It's fine. This is real.
They had just exited the laboratory and were awaiting the elevator. Their freedom was nigh incoming. Scurrying inside as it arrived, Natsuki had the abrupt realisation: What were they going to do when everyone saw them?
"Hm, well." Natsuki adjusted the lapel of her coat, trying to somewhat hide her bandage gauze. "Do we have new students yet?"
"We do. You awoke just in time for their enrollment ceremony."
"Ugh. I have the worst luck." Natsuki chuckled, running her index finger and thumb along her shirt's neckline. "I suppose it's fortunate I'm awake for the start of their term, though." She hadn't been unconscious for too long, either. "What's the first thing on our list?"
"The students should have already received their nanomachines earlier. Their enrollment should be soon." Drifting her fingertips to her ear, Shizuru paused. Ah… of course, she wasn't wearing her GEM.
Natsuki noticed her muscle memory kicking in, and smiled. She connected to the Founder instead, Fumi Himeno's voice looming within her mind: [The time is precisely the twenty-eighth of June 223 at 4:28pm. Headmistress, you have missed the Student Enrolment Ceremony. Please report to Maria Graceburt immediately].
"I think Fumi is berating me."
"How so?"
"Headmistress, you have missed the Student Enrolment Ceremony. Please report to Maria Graceburt immediately." She imitated far too seriously. To such an extent in fact, that Shizuru released an amused noise, leaning into her.
"I missed you so much."
"I missed you too."
"Even though you were in a medically induced coma?"
"Of course. Isn't that what you would say? Something like 'Oh, Natsuki! The things I dreamt of you!'" Natsuki teased, but her face fell after a moment. "Shizuru?" She edged closer to her Archmeister, her concern quickly rising. She looked as if she had just seen a ghost.
"It… I had terrible dreams of losing you." She whispered.
"Promise me that when we have time tonight, you will tell me about it?"
But, even so…? Shizuru's gaze wandered along Natsuki's face. She was so troubled. In response, Shizuru's heart twisted within her chest. "I will." She levelled her voice, offering a small nod.
As the elevator doors opened, Natsuki adjusted her crosstie to appear busy. Easing closer to speak more privately, having stepped into the corridor, she said: "...What time is the Enrolment Ceremony?" On one end of the corridor, there was a large group of students being shown around.
But she's missed it—Within the crowd, Shizuru spotted… that man? Shizuru's reality beckoned her back to the intensive care chamber. Once more, she was witnessing Natsuki, but… The alarm was still blaring. Crumpling to her knees, all she could do was watch the others rush to Natsuki.
This isn't happening.
It can't happen!
S—she's—!
Her reality waned. Neither was this real… for what she was experiencing, truly was a lucid nightmare. Shizuru Viola, the Archmeister, is dreaming within a coma.
[P25]
Furthermore, the Archmeister has been undergoing heart palpitations. Once again I am unable to identify the cause as to why she collapsed last week. However, I have my suspicions these palpitations and the Harmonium crystals are |
Yohko's fingertips rested upon her keyboard as she stared at her screen feebly. Though she had proofread her paper a dozen times, something still felt amiss. Leaning back into her chair, she slid her hands against her face. It felt like this research was never ending.
Gazing down to her cluttered desk, a myriad of post-it notes greeted her. 'Document the dial-like structure that's appeared on the Administar.' — 'Type up Prisoner 17's evidence.' — 'Test the new batch of nanomachines.' — 'Take pills.' — 'Stop drinking.' — 'Change the Archmeister's IV and check her vitals.' — 'Conduct further tests on the Harmonium Crystals.'
Yohko supposed she ought to get up…
A/N: This is the third instalment of the Impasse universe. As such, this means it's indirectly linked to Lēoht Gaest. It has lots of hints pointing to Cyne Wælcyrge which I won't be spoiling. Due to the sheer complexity of Cyne Wælcyrge, I've decided I will only start writing Impasse IV: Imperium once its timeline is complete.
Originally this was going to be 15,000 words with way more included. I think it would've been too much. The incoming events are potentially harder-hitting than this ending. If you can believe that.
When writing this, I was focusing on tricking the reader. Derealisation which Shizuru has is an extremely strange feeling. With mine I had no idea what was happening until it finished. Here I've included hallucinations as a delayed key factor of the Harmonium and x. This unknown x is not from Impasse.
Taishi's Zerfall which I used for Achromatic Delirium plays on the intense build up I've created. I'm hoping it suits Impasse perfectly for the direction I'm taking it.
Finally… for the silent readers and those who never know what to say: I have read about this experiment, and I would like us to try it. Rather than struggling with what to say, how about reviewing chapters with emojis instead? Here is a legend for you:
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