So, I had a small conversation with someone in real-life about comparing the group dynamic to a family dynamic among the peerage. I thought it was interesting so I thought I'd share my answers on the topic.
Issei: Close family friend
Vali: The mother that gets overly worried and protective
Arthur: The aloof older brother that secretly cares
Kuroka: The playful older sister but is always ready to help
Bikou: The mischievous younger brother
Lefay: Little sister that cheers everyone up
Chapter 13: Home Invasion
"Your guard is too low."
Bam!
"You jumped too late."
Boom!
For the past 3 hours, Issei had been getting the snot beaten out of him. As promised from 6 months ago, Vali was training him back at the Lucifer Mansion's training grounds. She didn't want to tear apart the Pendragon courtyard, so she decided to head back home with Issei to make sure that his training was still progressing. Compared to before, Issei could actually fight back now and hold his own. After several months, he had been training from weights and dumbbells to actual martial arts.
It still amazed Issei with how much knowledge Vali had about martial arts. She knew Karate, Judo, Krav Maga, Boxing, and Tongbei Quan. Of course, real-life martial arts was nothing like how it was in the movies, since it was all choreographed, but Vali found a way to make it practical in actual combat.
Issei had found that he particularly liked Wing Chun. He could hold his guard close to himself and take advantage of openings rather quickly. Maybe the Ip Man movies also had something to do with it.
Chain-punching, Vali rolled her fists to counter, stepping back as Issei pushed his assault. Grabbing hold of the kick she threw, Issei dragged her towards him, raising his right arm like a plank for her to crash into.
"Your side's open." Vali pointed out as she jabbed it, ducking below his arm
Twisting around, he kicked her in the stomach before resuming his stance. Unfortunately, she blocked his attack. Despite that, it sent her skidding back several feet.
"You don't flinch as much as you used to and you're moving a lot faster. Your hits hurt a lot more too." Vali smiled with satisfaction as she rubbed her arms.
"Think I can keep up, at the least?" Issei inquired.
The absolute last thing that he wanted was to be dead weight.
"Less talking, more training." Vali scolded him.
Dodging a punch, Issei knelt as he punched her with a burst of his mana.
"Yes, I think you can mostly keep up. Still, if it's time to fly, then you might want to stay back."
"Come to think of it, is everyone on the team a devil now?" Issei asked.
"Yes. Why?"
"Just curious, is all." Issei shook his head.
Vali looked at him and took note of his figure. He had grown much more muscular, with evident biceps and he'd grown taller too. However, what interested her the most, was the way his fighting was changing. At first, he was like an amateur, now, he was quickly progressing in strength and skill. He had learned how to control his mana and create a protective aura. Not only that, but his martial arts almost seemed automatic, like his body just did the fighting for him or he was moving off of instinct.
When she taught him martial arts, he internalized it quickly and he'd even use moves that she hadn't taught him yet. It made her curious but also worried her. He didn't say it, but she knew that he was concerned about the possibility of Bahamut exerting control over his body like before.
After wiping their sweat off, the door to the Training Grounds opened as someone entered. It was Arthur.
"It's almost time for the company dinner. You should get ready."
Issei sniffed himself and gagged. Yep, a shower was in order.
"Anything we need to know?" Vali asked.
"The company dinner is an open invite, so anyone can come. It'll be back in Cornwall and is a completely formal occasion. There, the people that you found on the list will be present and we can execute our own plan. There, my father will announce Lefay and my return. The rest of you will be disguised, so if you disappear, it'll be less noticeable, than if someone named were to disappear." Arthur reconfirmed the plan.
"Well, all that's left is to wait, I guess. Still, we should try and prepare for all situations." Vali nodded in agreement.
When the time for the party came, everyone had gotten dressed for their assigned jobs. Everyone aside from Arthur and Lefay were dressed up in outfits befitting their roles. Kuroka was to be the daughter of a rich businessman. Issei was going as a business partner. Bikou posed as a philanthropist. Lastly, Vali acted as a bodyguard. It was simple enough. Hopefully, Issei wouldn't get hit by a car or fall down a flight of stairs again.
Arriving at the massive hall owned by the Pendragons in the city, the group arrived separately at different times. With a bit of magic, Issei got his appearance a bit spruced up. With some more aged features, a thick mustache and a growing beard, he walked right in like any other guest. Dressed in a grey suit with a black shirt and brown shoes, he took a gander around.
There were people here by the hundreds, which made sense since it was all open-invite.
"Alright, let's do as planned, folks." Issei muttered.
"I'm in position." Bikou chuckled.
"Same." Kuroka purred.
"I'm at the upper floor." Vali said.
"Lefay and I are in the back." Arthur responded.
"See him?" Issei asked.
"Yep. He's walking through the door right now." Vali nodded.
Entering the Hall, was Mordred, dressed in a black tux with a red shirt. He looked as noble as one would expect him to. He looked around, glancing in several directions as he circled the Hall, talking to guests.
"Keep your eyes and ears peeled and open. Our father is about to make his speech soon." Lefay heard someone say as she looked from behind the curtains at the end of the room.
Turing around, she found Arthur walking over to her.
"Have you noticed anything yet?" He asked.
"Not at all." Lefay shook her head.
"There you two are."
The siblings turned to see that it was Uther.
"The maids and butlers have prepared all the drinks and every other arrangement for the evening. We should be all set."
"Understood." Arthur nodded.
Once again, an awkward silence lingered in the air. This was still something they were all getting back into. Still, it was gladdening to see that all three were trying their best. Arthur didn't scoff, Lefay didn't grumble or shrink away and Uther was much more communicative.
"Before anything else, I just want you to know that I'm grateful for what you two and your friends have done…I…know I haven't been the best father to either of you. I'll admit, I was rigid, controlling, and distant to both of you when you started growing up. When you both left, I saw what my actions did to you. Also, I never even bothered to check up on you, instead, I relied on others or simply sent you money without a word. So, I just wanted to say…I'm sorry."
With great difficulty, Uther finally said what he wanted, making his piece as concisely as possible, but keeping it meaningful. Some habits just died hard.
Arthur still had some difficulty with accepting this, but he still appreciated his father's efforts. Lefay smiled, giving her father a reassuring hug. She appreciated that he was putting in the effort, despite how brief and rigid he sounded.
"It's okay, Father. We know what you mean." She said.
With a conclusive nod, Uther walked away to find his wife to begin the event.
Soon enough, Issei turned towards the stand at the end of the room where Uther Pendragon and his family came into view. All spotlights fell upon them as all gave them their attention.
"Ladies and gentlemen, I humbly wish to thank you for coming on this busy evening. Today is the official anniversary of the founding of our company and it marks another prosperous year of our lives."
As Uther spoke, Issei decided to approach Mordred. Surely his disguise would give him some time to talk to the descendant of the Usurper before he noticed who he was.
"Greetings, Mr. Pendragon." Issei said in a German accent.
He really didn't know what he was doing with this since he was acting on the spot. He just hoped it was good enough to fool Mordred.
"Greetings. Who might you be?" Mordred asked.
"My name is Anton Lindwurm. I have heard that you're a skilled businessman. It's an honor to meet you, Herr Pendragon."
"The honor is all mine, Mr. Lindwurm. Tell me, what business are you a part of?" Mordred asked.
Thinking of the forged identity that Vali had crafted for him, he spoke.
"Drachenhaut Industries. We produce bulletproof vests and armor for our soldiers in Germany."
"Ah, I see. A more peaceful approach. I respect that. I'm actually interested in that particular trade. Perhaps we could talk more later." Mordred nodded with some admiration.
"Herr Pendragon, would you not be more interested in firearms from my homeland?" Issei asked.
Mordred shook his head with a smile.
"No, I'm more interested in armor. I have a dislike for guns."
Oh? Didn't Mordred want to make the Pendragon tea and herbal business into an arms manufacturer? Was Mordred putting up a front?
"Oh? Why is that?"
"I have a dislike for guns. My father was killed by terrorists with guns and my mother committed suicide with one. I'd rather not have any of them near me." Mordred bluntly said.
Issei sweatdropped. How was he supposed to follow up on that? Things just got real.
"The news has said that you're most likely to succeed the company." Issei said.
Mordred's expression became more serious.
"No, I'd rather not. Those rumors aren't actually true."
"If you do not mind me asking once more, why not?"
"Being a leader isn't something I desire. I'm perfectly content being a representative within the business." Mordred shook his head.
"I see. What do you think of the return of Mr. Arthur Pendragon and Ms. Lefay Pendragon?"
Now, it was time to get to the juicier parts. He wanted to see what sort of reaction that Mordred would pull.
"I'm honestly glad. Life at home has been rather different, so I'm happy that they've returned from their travels. Still, I haven't been able to talk with them just yet."
Issei was surprised when he looked at Mordred. Instead of any sort of animosity or anger, he seemed a bit sad, maybe even tired.
"I understand. Well then, Mr. Pendragon, I hope to see you again someday." Issei extended his hand to shake Mordred's.
"Yes, it has been a pleasure." Mordred courteously regarded him.
Walking away, Issei reflected upon this recent conversation. In certain ways, being the Host of Bahamut gave him some new abilities. One of them was the ability to sense a person's 'negativity' or 'wickedness'. It was faint and weak right now, but Issei could still sense where someone was, morally. Mordred was in the grey…maybe, white area?
Issei paused. Nothing was adding up. The story of how Mordred was as a kid and seeing his behavior now conflicted. Bahamut was sensitive to the foul intentions of others, and he almost always picked up on other people who couldn't hide it. Usually, it was just people who had little actual combat experience. Regardless, Issei was now questioning if Mordred was really the villain here. Was he putting up a ruse? Or was he truly innocent and everyone was being played for fools?
"Issei, you're standing still, what's wrong?" Vali asked.
"I'm starting to wonder if we're doing the right thing." Issei muttered.
"What do you mean?"
"You know how I can detect if someone has dark intentions? I mean, I can't sense it from higher-level beings or people who know how to hide their emotions, but just now, something didn't seem right." Issei explained.
Vali didn't refute him or call him crazy, despite his expectations.
"What did you feel when you were talking with him?"
"I felt like he wasn't as horrible as others put him up to be…He felt kind of serious, maybe calm and melancholic. Bahamut didn't even react to being near him. Normally, I'd feel some kind of irritation for starters but I felt completely normal."
"Uther said that he's been acting different compared to how he was 3 years ago. Maybe you're right." Vali concurred.
When Uther finished his speech, the group reconvened. He had made up the story that Arthur and Lefy had left to study abroad and had no returned to being preparing for life with the family business. It fooled most people, surely, but Issei still had his doubts.
"So, Lefay, when're you going to cast your spell?" Issei asked with a hushed whisper.
"I already did it." Lefay giggled.
"What?" Issei flatly asked.
"I created the spell and spiked every single drink that's going to come in here. I enchanted the cups and glasses. Also, I put a circle in the ground, so everyone who walked in will have the brainwashing gradually weakened to the point of being dispelled. If it's weak, then the enchantments will break instantly." Lefay smiled giddily.
"When did you do all this? We only decided on the plan yesterday afternoon." Issei looked at her in amazement.
"Simple: I didn't sleep." Lefay yawned.
Issei gave her a look. He walked over to a table and poured some coffee into a decorative cup and handed it to Lefay. He made sure to put in some cream, sugar, whip cream, and caramel syrup for her, since he knew she liked her coffee that way.
"This should keep you going until the night's over. I don't want you to collapse. Now, go sit down." Issei pointed at a chair that wasn't very far from him.
"Okay, Daddy, calm down. We've still got a job to do." Vali sighed.
Still, she couldn't help but chuckle. In his own over-the-top way, Issei always made it clear that he cared about the gang.
Arthur, who'd been overhearing Issei talk to Vali, decided to see for himself what his cousin had become. Before he could get over to him, however, someone caught his eye. A young woman with long dark-purple hair and golden eyes was walking out into the Gardens. Normally, Arthur wouldn't pay any random person much suspicion, but he found that he couldn't leave a stone unturned.
"I'll go and check her out. You go and pick at Mordred." Lefay said as she followed the young lady outside, having noticed Arthur's gaze.
"Is something the matter?" Lefay asked.
Calmly, the young lady turned around, revealing her features. Her long velvet hair and golden eyes were definitely eye-catching. Her hair was styled to be curly, with a black rose hairpin in her bangs. She wore a strapless velvet dress with matching high-heels. A gold bracelet wrapped around her wrists, resembling bangles.
"No, of course not, Ms. Pendragon. I merely wanted fresh air." The stranger smiled.
"May I ask your name?" Lefay asked.
"My name is Anna Scathleen. I'm an acquaintance of Mordred's." Anna smiled.
Lefay immediately went on guard in her mind. Whoever Anna was, she was going to have to regard her with caution. She already felt a strange aura from her, which made her instinctively reach for her wand.
"I see. Are you an associate of ours?" Lefay smiled.
"I work for Legion Industries. We're a conglomerate that deals in many businesses. The part that I'm in, handles item trading. As a member of a client company, I felt it was important to be here to meet the future of the King's Grail and Leaf." Anna smiled warmly.
'She's smiling a lot. I wonder if she's stringing me along to buy time. For that matter, is Arthur close to Mordred yet?' Lefay wondered.
"May I ask you a question, Ms. Pendragon?" Anna asked.
"Of course." Lefay nodded.
"I heard that some employees suffered health issues the other day. Apparently, one of them had a seizure and another got into car accident soon after. Could you elaborate on it? If there is, then I'll have items shipped to them" Anna offered.
'She knows.' Lefay concluded.
(Naruto Shippuden OST – Sasuke's Ninja Way. Play Song.)
"I'm not sure I can. I wasn't present at the incident. I was actually trying to sort myself back in order with life here." She responded.
"I see. Well, if that's the case, then I also have another question for you. Have you ever found it strange that so many members of your family are named after people of Arthurian mythology?" Anna asked.
"I don't have an answer for that, honestly. I've also wondered the same thing. Still, I find it quite embarrassing." Lefay sheepishly chuckled.
Lefay was certain that Anna was growing exasperated with her giving no answers, playing coy.
"I find it very interesting. It's one way to honor your ancestors but at the same time…" Anna said as she glanced at the clock.
"It's a good way to tell someone that you're a reincarnation." The velvet girl smirked.
"Reincarnation?" Lefay looked at her quizzically.
"Yes. It's been happening a lot, recently. I always thought it was odd that so many people in the Pendragon family and their associates have family members that are named after heroes of old. Uther, Arthur, Lefay, Mordred, Guinevere…doesn't it all sound so weird to you?"
"What's your point?" Lefay asked.
"I find that circumstances are aligning ever so strangely. With so many people back here together, I get the feeling that something's gonna happen. If I recall my books to be correct, Morgan Le Fay played a major role in the death of her brother. She forged him to be her weapon to take down her brother. If what Mordred told me was correct, then it was you that inadvertently led him to finding out about Arthur and Elaine dating. It was you, that caused your brother to leave the house."
Lefay paled.
"What do you mean?" Lefay asked.
"I remember Mordred told me that you talked before his last encounter with Arthur. He told me that you were the one happily squealing about your brother and best friend getting together. Thanks to that, Mordred took it upon himself to investigate. That's when he told your father about all this. So, I guess you're the reason why your family fell apart. Mordred's told me that while you weren't perfect, you still had some happiness. Now, look at you. You were the catalyst for the shattering of your family." Anna smirked.
Lefay stared at her wide-eyed. Now that she thought about it, it was her fault. Recalling their short conversation, she realized the ramifications of her own words.
'Frolicking about without a worry as always, Lefay. Just what has you so chipper?'
'Oh, nothing. It's just that my brother's finally found some happiness.'
'Arthur?'
'Yep. You wouldn't expect it, but he's finally done it.'
'Interesting. I'll have to see for myself. It's so rare for him to behave proactively.'
Lefay bit her lip as their exchange played over and over in her mind. She should've realized that there was more to Morded's words than he'd let on.
"Are you with the Khaos Brigade?" Lefay asked.
"What do you think?" Anna coyly asked.
Lefay drew her wand.
"Are you sure you want to do that here?"
"I've got ways to get around it. Why is it that you're concerned when your compatriots weren't?" Lefay asked.
"Unlike my compatriots, I'm not fond of involving civilians in battle. They get in the way of my enemy's and my own. I'd rather be undistracted by such issues. I only came tonight to see the famous Pendragon siblings whom I'd heard so much about. Arthur, who is known as an unparalleled swordsman and can wield two holy swords of the highest caliber. And you, who's known as a magical prodigy that has mastered hundreds of spells and summoning. I'll admit, you're interesting, but compared to your brother and others that I've met, you're not very special." Anna noted.
Lefay gave her a dismayed look.
"To me, I just see a bubbly little girl who's just so out of place. You're not gifted with the sword like your brother or cousin. You can't even hold a holy sword. You can't fight. In comparison to other mages, you have no specialties of your own. All that you have, is taken from others. All that research that you do, is done out of a desperate desire to have something special of your own. That's also why you're so eager to please others. It's because you just feel so inadequate." Anna sighed.
(Naruto Shippuden OST – Sasuke's Ninja Way. End Song.)
"Well now, don't you think you're overstepping things by quite a lot?"
Anna and Lefy turned to the doorway. Standing there was Issei.
"I don't appreciate you badmouthing my friend like that, y'know." He sighed.
"Ah, the tagalong."
"That's me." Issei folded his arms.
"You want to talk to me?" Scathach raised an interested brow.
"For a moment, if you've got the time." Issei nodded.
Looking at the clock, Anna, smirked.
"I would love to talk to the Host of Bahamut, since it's such a rare thing to do, but it looks like I don't have the time. I guess there're always other chances. I only came here to see what the esteemed Arthur and Lefay Pendragon were like. Not very impressed, but as for you, just make sure you don't die. After all, you've got a fight on your hands. You can thank Mordred for it." Anna smirked as she disappeared, melting into shadows while pointing far into the distance…right at the Pendragon Compound.
"Shit!" Issei cursed.
While that happened, Arthur was conversing with Mordred.
"Hello, cousin." Mordred regarded him.
"Hello."
"It's been 3 years. How've you been?"
"Fairly well, thank you. What about you? I heard you've been away on a long trip, recently." Arthur crossed his arms
"Yes, I have. I've been busy with work. You know how it is." Mordred dryly grinned.
"Doing what, might I ask?"
"Simple business. I've been trying to make things connect and stabilize for the company." Mordred shrugged.
"I've also heard that you have many members of the board siding with you. So, is it finally time for you to vie for the position of CEO?"
Mordred paused. He scoffed quietly.
"So, is that what you're here for? To spy on me? Did Uncle send you to come and ask me what I'm up to?"
"I'm asking of my own accord. What're you up to?"
"And what about you? You took Excalibur Ruler and Caliburn. Then, you vanished for 3 years. Now that you've returned, Roland Westcott's dead. Tell me, did you take part in the conspiracy to kill him? Knowing your father, he probably wanted to tie up loose ends. He's a man of secrets and he's not the most benevolent lord. Did you kill Roland to maintain your freedom?"
"If you're trying to throw accusations, then you're wasting your time. I didn't kill Roland."
"Coming from the guy who's always tried to show me up and caused me endless trouble? Why do you think anyone would buy that?"
"I didn't expect you to buy it. I don't need anyone to buy it because I'm using deeds to prove myself, Arthur."
"Do those deeds have to do with trying to find out what my father's private affairs are?"
"I'm only trying to find the person who killed Roland." Mordred growled.
"Then what about your desire to turn the company into a weapons manufacturer?"
"You already know what's coming, Arthur. The Khaos Brigade is coming sooner or later, and we need to do our parts, not run like how you did." Mordred sneered.
"And why do you care?"
"Because if they get their way, everyone's lives will never be the same."
Arthur scoffed. Everything that Mordred was saying recently, was completely conflicting with how he remembered him from the their past. Quickly, Arthur recalled their childhood. While they had some tension, the two had been close. Before all those holy swords and training, they'd used to play together and became as close as brothers. Then, once their destinies became a bit clearer, Arthur began outshining Mordred, who grew jealous. He'd lashed out more during training, becoming more aggressive and haughtier, almost as if to make up for his lack of capabilities compared to Arthur. Eventually, the rift between them grew more and more after Arthur became able to use Excalibur Ruler and Caliburn, the treasures of the Pendragons. After that, Mordred became colder and would cause several cases of mischievousness that bothered Arthur to no end. From buckets of water over the door, to gossiping about him, all the way to exposing his relationship with Elaine to Uther. All of it had built up into total disdain against Mordred.
"Why the change of heart? My mere presence inspired scornful sneers from you." Arthur prodded.
"I was like that, yes, but I have more important things to donow."
"Like what?"
BOOM!
Everyone within the Hall turned their heads to look into the distance. Right where the Pendragon house was, clouds of smoke and fire were trailing into the sky, dyeing the night sky orange.
"Like that." Mordred sighed.
"What was that?" Bikou asked.
"An explosion. Probably happened at the Pendragon Compound. We need to get back there and fast." Issei said.
"Then, let's go." Kuroka snapped her fingers.
Transporting the Team to the Pendragon Compound, Kuroka glanced out the corner of her eye and clicked her tongue. Someone was running toward them. That someone was Mordred. Just before they could avoid him, he jumped into the circle, going along with the group toward their destination.
The moment they'd arrived, they saw what had already happened. The Pendragon Compound had been razed, with much of the estate obliterated with an explosion. The most unsettling part was the fact that a gaping hole was leading underground. The enemy now knew of the True Excalibur's existence.
Arthur instantly drew his sword on his cousin but was stopped when Issei stood in front of him.
"Wait!" He said.
"What role did you have in this?" Arthur coldly asked.
"I didn't have one!" Mordred denied.
"Then why did Anna Scathleen say to thank you?" Issei asked.
"Anna Scathleen was someone I knew. She had approached me before, asking me to be a part of the Hero Faction of the Khaos Brigade. I declined and now we're here. Don't you all see? They were using me to lure everyone's attention away to set this all up." Mordred explained.
Arthur mused on this. While he disdained Mordred, he wasn't going to be unreasonable.
"Explain yourself, Mordred."
"I wasn't lying when I said that I wanted to find out about who killed Roland. The reason why I rallied the other board members to my cause was because Uncle Uther was just not doing enough. As for the militarization of the company's orientation, that wasn't me. I didn't find out about it until recently after I returned from my trip. My original proposal was for the manufacturing of armor and more combat medicines. Someone slipped in a paragraph about weapons that wasn't within the original draft. I take it, you two weren't the only ones who did some sneaking around." Mordred adjusted his jacket as he stood up.
"Why the change of heart now, Mordred? You clearly didn't have any qualms about exposing Elaine and me to my father. You've always been against me since we started training." Arthur glared.
Mordred closed his eyes and hung his head before sighing.
"Yes, I did resent you, but that changed, Arthur." He stood up.
(Doctor Who OST – Altering Lives. Play Song.)
"After I saw what my actions did to your family, it sparked a change. Back then, nothing like that had necessarily happened within our family. We hadn't experienced any real type of loss or struggles. We grew up in a life of luxury and could do things most humans couldn't. When you left the home, I saw how much it shocked your father and saddened your mother. I guess it showed a spoiled kid like myself what emotional pain was. Elaine's several nights of crying also slapped me awake. All of it, was caused by me and I regrettd my actions. Sure, I didn't do what the original Mordred did, but still, what I did was wrong. Roland also taught me more about wisdom and he helped me grow. That's why I've spent the past 3 years trying to change myself into a better person to try and make up for the damage I did. I knew that you probably wouldn't want to see my face, much less hear my voice, so I didn't try to find you. Sure enough, you still despise me." Mordred wryly smiled.
He was telling the truth. After he saw all the crying that Eldwynn did and the stunned silence exhibited by Uther, it made him feel regret for the first time. That genuine heartfelt emotion had a profound effect upon him. Seeing the pain of parents, it sparked some sympathy within him and it made him grow. That was also where Roland came in. He had taught Mordred lessons about consequences brought by jealousy and hate, even if they weren't directed at the one responsible.
"You can choose to believe me, but I can say it wholeheartedly that I truly regret what I did, Arthur. I'm sorry."
'Sorry' wasn't a word that Mordred had ever said since he was a child. He hadn't felt the need for it. Arthur spent several moments looking at Mordred, analyzing every detail of his expressions and body language. Most of all, he listened to his voice and the honesty in it. Should he trust Mordred, who'd played innocent and coy whenever he tried to get him in trouble? Arthur then shook his head. He was being petty, nor was this the time to be acting like this.
"If you want to check, then you can ask Lefay about the spell she made. Has it removed any brainwashing or enchantments?" Mordred looked at his younger cousin.
Lefay wrote a sigil in the air to check on her spell.
"No, it hasn't. There hasn't been a single spell of mind control or brainwashing at the hall."
"Also, the employees that disappeared weren't killed or kidnapped by me. I was making sure that they were safe because they were useful like Roland. I put them under our protection in secret in case the Khaos Brigade came knocking. The reason why Roland died was because I didn't get to him in time. If anyone's responsible, I'm sure it's them." Mordred concluded.
"Then what about your long trip?" Vali asked.
"I disappeared for a little while because I wanted to research the Khaos Brigade. I found it strange that someone supernatural would just approach me out of the blue and try to recruit me, while having genuine information on me. So, I decided to do some investigating as to who they were and why they were recruiting. I'm aware of the current situation in the Biblical Faction, since we're connected to the Vatican. If you want proof, then just ask them." Mordred shrugged.
Arthur broke down this information, thinking about how much of it made sense. After a short pause and a forced decision, Arthur sighed.
"Fine. We'll believe you for now. However, we'll fully settle this once the situation's resolved." Arthur turned towards the Vault where the True Excalibur was kept.
(Doctor Who OST – Altering Lives. End Song.)
As the group moved through the ruins of the estate, they helped as many as they could. Thankfully, nobody was killed, only wounded. Arthur knelt next to a butler to ask for information.
"What happened?"
"I-I don't know. Everything was normal until some purple mist crept around the estate from out of nowhere. When we all went to check around, explosions just went off everywhere. We have no idea why or how."
"Did you see anyone head towards my father's office?" Arthur asked.
"Elaine did. I saw her take off. A few explosions happened and now, it's gone completely silent. She said that she saw people going there and went to head them off. You have to go help her." The butler tightly gripped Arthur's sleeve.
Arthur eagerly nodded before rushing in that direction.
"Bikou, Kuroka, you two go help Arthur. Issei, Lefay, and I will stay and help." Vali decided.
Mordred, not having to answer to Vali, followed after Arthur.
"And make sure he doesn't do anything." Vali gestured at Mordred.
Kuroka and Bikou nodded before following suit.
For a short while, Issei, Vali, and Lefay removed rubble, helping others escape from suffocation and further torment. After establishing contact with the Pendragon House, help would arrive in 15 minutes, with a fully armed force coming to deal with any hostiles. As for medical help, Lefay was getting to work on sending the House maids and butlers to their own private hospital via magic circle.
A few minutes into the search and rescue, Vali felt some presences that she knew not to be friendly. It was coming from below.
Bursting out of the ground, two people jumped out of the rubble. A tall dark-skinned man with short black hair and grey eyes wearing an outfit reminiscent of Indian design stood tall. He had golden bracelets on his arms, marked with magical carvings and symbols. Strapped to his waist, was a Talwar with golden accents and a jeweled handguard that had a matching red sheath.
Next to him, was a young woman with auburn hair and green eyes. She wore a sleeved white dress that was v-cut down the middle, reaching her cleavage. The hem of the dress reached her knees with brown leather boots covering her legs. Wrapped around her was a furry blue cape with snow flakes trailing down it.
"I take it you're from the Khaos Brigade?" Vali asked.
"You guessed it. I'm Anastasia." The lady in white said.
"My name is Ashoka." The man in noble clothing said.
"I was unaware that people named after people from myth and history were working with the renegades." Vali remarked.
"I'd appreciate it if you didn't lump us in with the Old Satan Faction. We're part of the Hero Faction, descendants of heroes and people in myth and history." Anastasia smirked.
"So, why're you here?" Lefay asked.
"Wouldn't you like to know? Well, our boss says not to talk too much but fight, so no can do on spilling the beans." Anastasia shrugged.
"Then we'll have to beat it out of you." Vali cracked her knuckles.
"You sure you wanna fight with these people here?" Anastasia raised a brow.
"Not a problem."
Vali immediately charged at Anastasia.
"If you can fly." She finished.
(Bleach OST – Showing Off. Play Song.)
Anastasia smirked as she snapped her fingers. Blown backwards with a storm of solid materials, Vali took a good look at what did it.
"I hope you like riches because I'm about to share them with you." Anastasia smiled.
Snapping her fingers, Anastasia's robes began flapping as several small objects came flying out. When Issei looked closely, he saw that they were small gems that were harmoniously dancing around her.
"What?" He looked at them in shock.
That was when Ashoka noticed him. Drawing his sword, he pointed it at Issei.
"I have no quarrel with you. However, if you decide to interfere, then know that I can't guarantee your survival." Ashoka warned.
Issei looked at him resolutely.
"I'm sorry, but standing on the sidelines isn't an option."
Summoning the Abyssal Fury on his right arm, Issei assumed a stance. Ashoka merely sighed. The two sized each other up, trying to determine how to handle each other. Finally, Ashoka made the first move. He lunged straight at Issei, slashing at him with his jeweled sword.
"You move nimbly for someone who's just been introduced to combat, let alone the supernatural world." Ashoka noted.
"I had a good teacher." Issei responded.
Whirling around a thrust, he threw a punch at Ashoka, but he blocked it. Catching his fist with his pare palm, Ashoka smacked Issei in the jaw with the pommel of his sword before kicking him back.
Sent skidding along the ground, Issei rolled onto his feet before taking a deep breath. Recalling all the training he'd been doing with Vali, Issei wrapped himself in an aura, manifesting navy mana around himself.
"Aura control?" Ashoka raised a brow.
Issei focused himself.
'All it takes is one well-aimed blow to bring someone down. I shouldn't fight for too long or it'll only get worse for me.'
Enhanced, Issei propelled towards Ashoka, throwing a linear punch once again. Even though he dodged it, Ashoka was stunned when the fist collided with a wall. With a mere touch, the attack shattered the entire wall of rubble and blasted it away into dust.
Dodging a swipe, Ashoka hopped above Issei, kicking him away.
Issei felt the aching pain spread across his torso but got back up. Thanks to his training with Vali and getting beaten up day-in and day-out, he'd become much more resistant to pain. Of course, she never went all-out on him.
"Just give up and stand aside. I don't want to hurt you." Ashoka said once again.
"And how do I know you're not going to interfere with them?" Issei gestured at Vali and Anastasia.
"I'm not the kind of person to do that. I'll only intervene to save a comrade's life, nothing more. Wouldn't the same go for you?" Ashoka shook his head.
"Interesting. Considering my past experiences with the Khaos Brigade, you're a first." Issei smirked.
"You'll find that the Hero Faction is a little less despicable compared to the Old Satan Faction." Ashoka nodded.
"Is that human superiority?"
"It's the truth." Ashoka denied.
Issei merely narrowed his eyes as Ashoka got ready to counter him again. The entire time, Ashoka had only countered or tested him, observing how he fought. To be honest, Issei didn't want to fight an opponent who had the same disposition. It wasn't in his own nature to be aggressive. The fact that he had a galaxy-destroying dragon's soul sleeping within him didn't help matters either.
While fighting, Vali had been sneaking glances at Issei. Thankfully, he was holding up sufficiently, but she didn't know what sort of opponent Ashoka was. She had the urge to tell Issei to step to the side, but her hands were full with Anastasia.
Firing a blast of magic at her, the Romanov descendant raised her hands, erecting a pillar of sapphire from the ground. Waving her hand in the air, Anastasia circled gems and gold around Vali, enchanting them with magic.
Vali spread her wings and let out a burst of energy to break out of the enclosed space. She had to land just one hit on Anastasia and she could tip the scales in her favor. Flying at her enemy, Vali fired several small pellets of mana at her, countering a volley of gold coins. At this point, Vali was getting a better grip on Anastasia's abilities. At first, she thought it was telekinesis, given how she could move objects without touching them. However, with a closer look, she saw that it was only gems and precious metals.
"You're just so predictable." Anastasia chuckled.
"Am I?" Vali raised a brow.
"[Half Dimension]" Albion announced.
With her advanced control of the technique, Vali shrunk down the size of the pillars over Anastasia, breaking them apart from the weight of the shattered ceiling above her.
"You sneak." Anastasia clicked her tongue.
Raising both arms, she created a cylinder of ruby around herself, breaking the rubble apart. Now was the time. Vali smashed her fist into the ground, creating a shockwave that battered against Anastasia's defense. Breaking apart into pebbles, Anastasia whirled around, grabbing hold of a gem and firing it at Vali, covering it with magic.
Flying to the side, Vali circled around as Anastasia volleyed everything that had a precious metal or jewel inside it at her. Vali flew at the ceiling, intending to rain hell down on her enemy. With a spin, Anastasia covered herself with a dome of metal and gems, enhancing it with magic.
Spreading her wings, Vali used [Half Dimension] to shrink down the dome to weaken it. It wasn't as powerful as it could've been, since she wasn't using her Balance Breaker, but as it was, it was enough.
"Peek-a-boo."
Vali snapped around in surprise to see Anastasia swinging a massive axe made of amber at her. Blasting it away with a pulse of magic, Vali tried to kick at her, but was blocked when a nugget of gold turned into a shield, shaped and molded like clay.
"My Sacred Gear, Precious Matter, lets me manipulate all gems and precious metals to my heart's content. Pretty, isn't it?" Anastasia smirked.
"Haven't you been taught not to waste money?" Vali retorted.
"I've just been taught to spend it wisely."
Anastasia chuckled. Pointing her finger in a gun imitation, she fired a hail of rubies and emeralds. When Vali lunged at her, Anastasia waved her arms, willing jeweled arrows and spears to attack. With a flap of her wings, Vali fanned them away.
"Let's cut your allowance." She said.
With a blast of ice, she froze the entire area around her with thick ice.
"Ice? Really?" Anastasia gave her a disappointed look.
Despite that, when she tried to will the gems below the earth to move, she found that they were being blocked.
"My ice is more magical than the regular kind. You'll have to try harder."
Anastasia only smirked. Spreading her arms, she activated her Sacred Gear again. Amassing all of the gems and precious metals around her, she swirled a cloud of it around her.
"How's this?"
"Peachy." Vali grinned.
Spreading her wings, Vali snapped her fingers. It was fine that she couldn't hit Anastasia. She'd already spread enough of her trump card, anyways. Anastasia yelped when she saw that every single chunk of metal and jewelry around her was exploding and turning into dust.
"What?!"
"[Stardust]" Albion announced.
[Stardust] was one of Vali's more discreet attacks. To others, they looked like particles or glitter but in truth, they were bombs. By spreading compressed particles of magic everywhere, she effectively left little bombs wherever she dropped them.
"Sorry, princess, but I'm rich in power and money." Vali joked.
Anastasia grit her teeth when she realized that Vali had detonated her little particles all over place, erasing anything she could use quickly. However, this wasn't over yet, not by a long shot.
Taking out a bag from her belt, she threw it at Vali. Snapping her fingers, bursts of spikes tore from out of the bag, turning Vali into a pincushion. At least, that was the plan. Anastasia narrowed her eyes when she saw that a bright light was sparkling from within the cluster of spiked jewels.
"She just doesn't stop, does she?" Anastasia sighed.
Bursting out of the cluster, Vali was wearing her Balance Breaker, which quickly saved her from being skewered.
"Now, we can get serious." Anastasia crossed her arms, ready for another round.
(Bleach OST – Showing Off. End Song.)
Meanwhile, Arthur, Mordred, Kuroka, and Bikou were sprinting down countless steps towards the place where Excalibur was kept. While passing through, they'd fought their way past countless members of the Khaos Brigade, namely Stray Exorcists and Mages.
When they reached the doors, they'd found that it had already been opened, having looked like it had been torn apart.
"To think they could do this with brute force." Arthur noted.
With a closer look, there were two deep hand prints pressed into the sides of the doors. Just then, another wave of enemies came to meet them.
"We've got this. You go on ahead." Bikou said.
Increasing the size and length of his staff, he swept aside a cluster of foes like a weedwhacker.
"Let's go." Mordred said quickly.
Arthur nodded at Bikou and Kuroka gratefully. At least, he knew they'd be fine.
When they entered the Vault, Arthur and Mordred were met by three people and Elaine. Much to Arthur's relief, she was unharmed. For the first time in a while, he saw her ready for a fight, manifesting two magic circles from her hands. When they met gaze, she gave him an acknowledging look before turning back to the enemies in front of her.
"I guess Ashoka and Anastasia didn't get up there in time." One of them sighed.
"It doesn't matter. Let's just get this done with and go back."
"Who're you?" Mordred asked.
"I'm Heracles, the descendant of the original and a member of the Hero Faction." One of them said.
Heracles had stormy grey eyes and caramel-brown hair that was short and curly. His attire consisted of traditional Greek armor that was bronze, with a war-kilt made of metal. Leather sandals adorned his feet, with golden bands around his wrists and ankles.
"And I'm Nora, descendant of the original Nora Kelmendi." The other person said.
Nora had olive-green eyes and long dark-brown hair that was tied into a ponytail going over her shoulder. She wore a white shirt with a red skirt that had intricate decorations sewn into them that were of gold and black. On her feet, were black leather shoes. Most of all, she wore a silver chest-plate with pauldrons on her shoulders and gauntlets on her arms. As for evident weapons, there was an intricate dagger strapped to her waist. It was marked with magical sigils and was almost as long as a shortsword.
"And I'm Robin Hood."
Said young man had light brown hair, blue eyes, and a dark green hoodie with matching pants and black boots. He had straps across his body, holstering knives and other pieces of equipment. Strapped to his back were two quivers and in his hands, was a collapsible bow.
"So, the Hero Faction is just full of knock-offs like us." Mordred concluded.
"Seems like it, but knock-offs is a bit much." Heracles scoffed.
"Enough talking, Heracles. We have a task to finish." Nora sighed.
"Yeah, yeah, I'm on it." Heracles cracked his knuckles.
Smashing his fist into a ground, a shockwave pulsed from where his fist struck. Arthur and Mordred jumped out the way, dodging the attack. At that moment, Nora leapt into the air, attacking Mordred.
Arthur was about to intercept her but was surprised to see that Mordred had drawn a sword from thin air, much like how he drew Caliburn.
"What?" Arthur exclaimed.
"With this sword, I'll right my wrongs." Mordred muttered to the blade.
The weapon in his hands was a broadsword that had a white blade with a transcription going down it. There was a lack of a handguard, as it was meant to be a sword of peace. Welding the handle and blade together, was a red band that was lined with gold. The hilt was crimson, with golden lines circling down as a ruby finished the pommel. As soon as Mordred spoke, the sword seemed to take on a much brighter glow, gaining a more vibrant white aura around itself.
"What is that?" Arthur asked.
"Clarent." Mordred explained.
Arthur decided that he'd ask how his cousin got the sword later. For now, they needed to take these two down and secure Excalibur.
Outside, as people began evacuating from the area, Uther and Eldwynn came rushing toward the entrance. Stopping by a butler, they questioned him.
"What's happened?"
"We don't know. There was purple mist that came out of nowhere and suddenly explosions went off. I heard that it was the Khaos Brigade."
"Where're our children?" Eldwynn asked.
"They're still inside the compound, fighting people."
Uther inspected the damage done to their home. The Pendragon compound was covered in protective enchantments that would take days for a supernatural army to siege. Yet, their defenses were completely shattered so easily in mere moments. Uther had a bad feeling in his gut. Who knew what sort of dangers the Khaos Brigade was capable of? If they could instantly raze their home, then what was happening to his children?
And that's the end for this chapter.
I don't have much to say for the ending, so, per usual, thanks for reading and until next time.
