Chapter 5: Save the maid and enter Accel trial
It had been a few days after the Ball of Frigg. I can still feel the painful sensation on my ear that night. Louise isn't doing well either, her quarrel with Kirche about me being with her kept my master mad to this day...
I asked her about why she hated Kirche so much, and it turns out that she was the one who gave Louise her title 'the zero' during the time before I got here… but I think that there is more about this rivalry than a simple insult.
Louise then revealed that the Zerbst and Valliere families had a fierce rivalry since the first encounter. She along with Kirche is the current generation of rivals. Both families lived on the opposite borders between Tristain and Germania, when conflict came those two would lead the charge...
These families were rich and produced powerful mages in their times, it was more than acts pride or fame it was personal. According to Louise, her ancestor's fiancée was taken away by Kirche's ancestors
It was pointless when that reason was heard. I find it weird that such an act would cause this… long rivalry. But nonetheless, I found out the history between the two girls and their family dispute
Osmond read the letter over and over, it even said that the princess should give a reward to those who stopped the crumbling dirt.
The old wizard wrote a message that the reward isn't necessary and that he was glad the thief was finally caught, although he did miss her company… sure he was teasing her but at least he took his secretary's beatings as a sign of honest on Ms. Longueville/Foquet's beauty.
The man in front of him was dressed in bright clothes signifying his status as a noble, although he looks a bit… hectic and screamed the word arrogance in general, he was also the one who was tasked to deliver messages from the castle.
Osmond finished signing and rolled up the parchment and gave it to the man
"Her majesty will appreciate such a swift reply" the man smiled
"I hope that you have a safe journey" Osmond nodded 'not that I care for your well-being...'
Louise and I were at the courtyard drinking tea, the pinkette was trying to calm her nerves from the incident before turning to me.
"Be glad that I didn't punish you for being with Zerbst that night" Louise hummed
"Believe me, I am grateful that you haven't raised your hand at me today" I sighed
The two of us just stayed quiet since Louise is still trying to calm herself. After a few cups she suddenly remembered something.
"Hey Peter" Louise called to me
"Yes?" I asked
"Up until now, I've been hearing the words of your Gaia memory and when you transform it says the same word." She spoke "and when you use its power, it said maximum drive before you deliver the attack"
"Oh that's pretty simple, it declared that to it's full power" I answered "the maximum drive is a signal that it was ready… sort of like making a spell on what you nobles usually do with your wands"
Siesta sighed heavily as she walked to her room… despite being treated badly, it wasn't that bad. The castle was big and there was something to do, above those things… she made a very special friend. he showed her that nothing was impossible; he even showed her that she can do anything if she can work enough for it, he even showed that the nobles aren't perfect and that they can be humble also...
The academy was beginning to feel like home to her, but now she has to leave...
Siesta could just hope that she could say goodbye to her friend who made it all possible
Nightfall came and I was still at the courtyard while Louise decided to sleep first since her temper started to cool down. I went to a small fountain and dunked my head into the water to stop thinking of the night when her fury was shown.
I pulled my head out "ah, that feels better..."
"I have to wonder if I should tell you not to do that" a voice called out
"Hm?" I turned to see the maid I befriended here "oh, hi Siesta"
I looked down to see a towel in her hands, I guess she saw me trying to calm down and tried to comfort me
"By any chance that towel s meant for me?" I asked
The maid nodded and I took the cloth and used it to remove the excess water from my eyes and hair
"So is there anything that you want to talk about?" I asked her "you've been standing there quietly for a while now..."
"Oh, it's nothing, I just like your company that's all..." Siesta struggled to smile "it's just that… I always thought the nobles would always be superior us common folk, but you came here and made the impossible happen" she sighed "I wanted to say to thank you for that and… goodbye"
Siesta dashed away from me after that leaving me in confusion
"Uh… I guess I'll see you then?" even though I'll be seeing her in the morning, I just can't help but get a bad feeling when she said goodbye
Siesta tried not to cry, but she failed as tears dropped down her cheeks she walked away from the person that made her have courage. She really didn't want to leave, but she was forced to do so…
Still, it couldn't turn out for the worse… right?
Morning came and I was having a nice meal from the head chef and some compliments from him as he continued to idolize my actions.
"Man, I can't get enough of this stuff" I continued eating with glee "it's no wonder you got this job!"
"Nothing but the best for our sword" the man smiled
"Oh, I forgot to ask with you and me being busy and all. What's your name?" I asked after eating the last piece of bread on my plate.
"Oh, my name is Marteu" The head chef smiled "also you've been getting popular lately..."
"Really now?" I muttered, I know that the noble folk would laugh at my deeds and said that I was just lucky to be a part of it
"Oh yes" Marteu smiled "the other maids are whispering about you"
Oh boy… I'm already getting a fan club from the maids and with Kirche latching onto me like her favorite toy. I'm going to be in trouble with Louise again if she heard about this.
"That's nice to hear" I spoke trying to calm down "now what were they talking about?"
"Oh they were talking about when you will talk to them" Marteu said "or which one of them will go to you, now that Siesta's gone"
After hearing about Siesta leaving I did the obvious thing when a person receives bad news…
I spat out my drink and stood up in shock
"WHAT-!?" I shouted
"She didn't tell you?" The chef asked
I shook my head
"We were really surprised when Siesta just said that she's leaving to work for Count Mott" feeling sad for the maid
"But why would she just follow something like that, if she doesn't want to?!" I asked franticly
"Because we commoners follow every command of the nobles… no matter how much we disagree" the head chef went back to his staff and prepared to make the dishes for the people in the dining hall.
I sat back on my chair, speechless at the revelation in this kind of society. I have to ask Louise about this Count Mott...
"Count Mott?" Louise asked while brushing her hair "yes, I know him. He's the imperial messenger so he drops by the academy from time to time; he's incredibly bossy and I for one can't stand him… not that anyone can"
"That explains his status, but it still doesn't explain why Siesta would work for him" I called from the other side of the room "I mean is that guy going to pay her more than the academy could offer?"
"Well" Derflinger spoke up from his scabbard "if a noble suddenly asked for a female servant. I'm guessing that this Mott person is likely going make the girl his mistress"
"MISTRESS...?!" I shouted "you mean to tell me that Mott just took Siesta for that reason and she just accepted!?" I asked
"Not exactly" Derf answered "but then again the nobles give command and the commoners can't really say no"
I was struck speechless again "please tell me that this is some stupid game… or at least that count Mott is still a young man"
"I think he's in his thirties" Louise answered "then again, there are nobles of different ki-"
"HOW COULD YOU SAY THAT!-?-!"
Louise turned and she started to turn pale at what she saw, there was her familiar in a fit of anger that she couldn't describe. Peter's fury was so strong that entire room felt a bit cold and Derflinger rattled a bit.
"That man is not even worth to be a noble...!" I shouted "he's vile, stupid, abusive and...and A FREAK!" my rage really got me and I can't blame Louise for being afraid… after all she hasn't learned the word humility yet.
"Why does Henrietta let this happen!-?" I shouted
"Her majesty would never let that happen!" Louise shouted at me
"Then why is it happening Louise?!" I countered "why is no one doing anything!?"
"That's because she doesn't know anything about it!"
Louise and I turned to the rusted sword trying stop us from doing something violent.
"Look, I'm a good judge of character and I know the princess isn't the type to ignore this" he explained "but the advisors wouldn't want to get the bad end of these acts so they wouldn't tell her about the problems"
I growled at that statement, the advisors really sunk low and are so stupid that they can get away with this. Well I'm not going to stand around do nothing about this kind of act.
"Fine!-! If those guys in the court won't handle it then I will!" I strapped Derflinger on my back and took my acceldriver and Gaia memories in my jacket.
I turned to Louise "now… tell me where Mott is"
Louise gulped at seeing her familiar act this way, and she couldn't blame Peter at the least. Such behavior to take advantage of the common people is a disgusting act, after hearing Derflinger about the advisors keeping it secret from their royal superiors to keep their land from losing face. So the act of darkness was kept under hands
But Henrietta never let that happen…
"Louise, I'm still asking nicely… where. Is. Mott?" I asked her
The pink mage started to shiver, Louise never felt this way before. When she looked up, her familiar was covered in an aura strong enough to take the form of a beast which would be forever burned in her memory...
"Tell me where he is, RIGHT NOW!"
"G-G-Guiche" Louise muttered "h-his family is in the military, they deal with count to deliver messages. He knows where Mott lives"
I quickly walked out of the room leaving Louise inside and look for Guiche in the area
Louise just sat on her chair feeling very scared the beast that showed in front of her was worse than Eleanor's period
'What was that...?"
I stomped around the halls searching for that blonde boy until I saw him with Montmorency. He was likely trying to win her heart once again after the loss during the breakup from last time.
"How wonderful, a broach made of mitral"
"Oh doesn't that look fabulous on you"
Found him… I could care less of their bonding. All I care is saving Siesta.
"Guiche"
The blond boy went stiff after hearing a certain voice, he turned to see Peter looking very upset right now.
"O-oh sir Lionheart w-what can I do for you?" He quivered
Montmorency would've been mad at the interruption but she went quiet as a bad feeling went up her spine and decided to stay quiet
"I want to know where count Mott is" I spoke
"Count Mott?" Guiche questioned "that arrogant man of a noble?"
Wow… even Guiche hated him. I guess the guy could understand judgment after all
"I have some… business with that man so I need to know where he is"
Guiche has been nice to give me the location of Mott's location and now I'm outside at the gates with a couple of guards beside me. It seems that the nobles were given privilege to come and go since they knew magic and all… and since I'm bound to a contract with Louise that gave me the same privilege too.
"Are you sure about this partner?" Derflinger spoke "I mean we will get in trouble about this"
"Every action has a price, Derf" I answered "besides Mott needs to learn his mistakes"
"Ha! I knew that I chose the right partner! Your vigor knows no bounds..!"
I placed the acceldriver on my waist and pressed the button on my memory
Accel
"Hen..."
"WAIT!"
I was stopped by a shout behind me. I turned to see Louise dashing toward me
"Louise, what are you doing here?" I asked her
"Isn't that obvious?" she panted "I'm going with you!"
I was surprised that she would actually come at this, I may be a familiar but I'm also human… one life is already in danger and I'm not going to risk another…
"That's nice of you Louise but its better that you stay here" I replied
"WHAT!" She screeched "now listen here you dog! I'm your master, and I say I will go with you! A familiar is contracted to whoever summoned them"
"Which is why I'm not letting you come" I interjected
"Huh?" Louise asked
"Louise, you said that a familiar acts like their master right? If you come with me then Mott will just complain to Henrietta and she will give the punishment to you instead of me"
Louise thought about that. And Peter is right… if she went along then she will be punished in Peter's stead
"If you really want to help Louise, write a letter about what happened and send it to the princess" I spoke "If I'm not back in 5 minutes, come get me"
I walked away from Louise and prepared myself
"Hen…SHIN!"
I placed the Accel memory in my acceldriver and twisted the throttle
Accel
My armor appeared and I changed into Accel, I made a quick dash while taking out my buckle. I jumped in the air and changed into bike form, continuing my journey Mott's estate
'Don't worry Siesta...I'll save you!'
Siesta tried to bear with her new client but she just couldn't get the fact that she will be used for the man's own pleasure.
"Careful there" Mott called "I wouldn't want you get hurt now"
"Yes master..." Siesta replied as she swallowed her pride and continued to do her work
I was already at the location of Count Mott and he really is a snob if he's keeping the mansion to his tastes, then again... all nobles are. If the law said that a commoner cannot stand up to a noble then the consequences be damned...!
I didn't have time to ask for the count's home, all I care is getting Siesta out of this place! I made it through the front door and barged in with no guards around.
Boy for a guy with high status, he doesn't know when to put his guards on patrol...
Then I heard whimpering from a door and immediately kicked it open!
And there it was… the scene that I hated to see; Siesta is being touched by the bastard who called himself a noble!
She looked away in shame that her friend had seen her in the hands of another man
'Please don't look...!' she muttered
Count Mott let go of of the maid and stepped forward
"Who are you?!" He shouted "what are you doing here!"
When I saw Siesta in that freak's arms, I was shocked to see it, and then rage filled my body. I tightened my fists at the man's ignorance and then…
Pow!
I struck that fat pig so hard that his good looking face was smacked against the wall
Siesta was stunned once more to see her friend strike another noble… she was both happy and scared at Peter's actions, and she hoped that he could be safe.
"Siesta! Are you okay?" I asked her
The maid couldn't speak thanks to her savior's deed
Mott then stood up looking angry, although the red mark on his face made look like a clown instead of a noble
"HOW DARE YOU HIT ME!" the count was really upset that a stranger would barge in and strike him down
"A noble you say?" I sneered "all I see is a fat pig who takes advantage of his status and ignore the rules of the royal highness"
I stepped forward taking out my engine blade "and I for one should say that you will be punished for such heresy"
Mott felt scared that this… this commoner would hurt him again. So he made a move that always saved him.
"GUARDS!" The count shouted
Just then the guards of the estate ran inside the room and held Peter in his place making him drop the sword onto the floor.
I struggled in their grip but I can't move.
"You coward!" I yelled
"Heh" Mott smiled "that should teach you to mess with me"
He turned to Siesta with a lecherous smile
"Now that the disturbance is gone, I would like you to be with me for the night"
Siesta fidgeted that her one chance to escape from this nightmare was gone…
It wasn't fair!
Vrooom!
The guards were flung all around the room, leaving Peter the only man standing
I stood there for a while feeling all of my anger change into something else, I picked up my weapon and slowly walked toward the count
Mott stepped back in fear and he pulled out his staff
"S-stay back!"
Tap
A small piece of wood hit the floor, but it was actually a piece of the staff that got cut off from Mott's hand and the bastard's back was against the wall...
I looked at Mott with so much fury that I could only desire hurt and humiliate him...!
"Mott..." my voice spoke with only a promise of fear and satisfaction "you have made a grave mistake by taking things that aren't yours"
I opened my blade and placed the Engine memory inside
Engine
"And for that act, you must face the wrath of my judgment!"
I pulled the trigger
Electric
My sword sparked with heavy volts of electricity
"Now... take your punishment...!"
And so, my anger on count Mott was delivered…
Louise was riding horseback on her way to Mott's estate feeling worried about her familiar. At first she just went to bed thinking that it wouldn't happen, after five minutes she couldn't take it anymore… and wrote a letter sending it to Henrietta then went to the nearest horse to find her familiar
She reached the estate to find it quiet, she walked around the backyard and saw nothing
'Strange, I thought there would be a disaster. Why is it so-'
Bzzzt!
"HELP...!"
Zap!
"You're not going anywhere!"
'Never mind...'
Louise followed the sound and saw an awkward sight, there was Count Mott with his clothes completely torn and his hair or… what's left of it, was burned. Behind him was Peter dragging his sword against the grass.
"You know, this could stop if you just say the words" I called
"PETER!" Louise dashed to her familiar "what's going on here?!"
"Derf, please give Louise the explanation" I replied "I'm still looking for that him..."
"You should have seen it Louise!" Derflinger spoke "partner here, just stormed in and attacked Mott. But when he was about to deliver the punishment, the guards came in and held him down! After that my partner freed himself and this is what happened"
A giggle was heard and Louise turned around to see Siesta wearign normal clothes. She was very happy that Peter saved her
"Now where are you...?" I muttered
Rustle
"AHA!" I swung my blade toward the bushes
BZZT!
Mott shot out of the shrub completely covered in smoke
"Now Mott, care to tell me your answer...?" I asked
"Okay… I'll let you have the maid" Mott breathed "just… leave me..." and passed out from the pain
"That wasn't so bad, was it?"
The three of us made it back to the academy and got off the horse
"Go ahead and rest Louise, you need your beauty sleep" I whispered
The pinkette huffed and went on her way leaving me and Siesta alone
"That was really brave of you to come for me" Siesta muttered
"You're my friend Siesta" I spoke "I would not let that pig keep you for himself"
The maid smiled and she walked closer to me
"Let me thank you properly" Siesta closed her eyes and leaned forward
Chu
Giving a quick peck on my cheek
"See you" the girl dashed to away with a smile and deep blush on her face
I just stood there gaping at Siesta... and placed my hand on where she kissed me
"That's one hell of reward you got partner" Derflinger spoke
"Yeah..."
I was now outside in the Vestri courtyard in the morning with the other familiars waiting for our respective masters.
I was now in my Trial outfit. It was a grey shirt with blue long-sleeves with a hood attached at the back of my neck and the letter T mark in bright blue on my back, my pants were also blue and it has black stripes on the sides.
I have to say Quinn has really outdone herself... she made it very unique to my tastes. I'm not complaining with it, she really had a good way to be creative with her work and won't be yelled at due to me not being a noble
Since the incident from Count Mott, Siesta has become more open to me. Heck she even started to bring food at times in case I need a bite. Kirche is nice and all but she always kept me very close in her arms, Louise would be mostly in a neutral point until she gets mad or something, Tabitha is pretty much the quiet person since she spoke only a few words and reads a book most of the time
"Hey partner" Derflinger spoke from my back "do you think that I can get myself polished now...?"
"Of course Derf" I replied "the only problem is I don't have the materials to do it, and my inexperience will make you blunt and broken than sharp and shiny"
"Can't you just get Louise to buy them?" Derflinger asked
"Sorry Derf" I answered "I blew all of her funds just by getting you and the new clothes I'm wearing"
My sword whined that it wouldn't get to be shiny all the time. But then the two of us heard giggling, I saw Siesta bringing a tray of food to me. She heard the conversation and decided to join in
"Don't worry Derflinger, I'll get the supplies you need" she assured
"Really maid girl?!" the sword cried "thanks!"
"That's really nice of you Siesta" I smiled "but I don't have the money to pay you back..."
"Don't worry" she smiled "it's the least I could do for saving me from Mott"
"HOORAY!" my sword shouted "shiny town here I come!"
Classes finally ended and the students came to get their familiars, Louise and I went back to the tower, when we got into the room there was a pigeon looking at us expectantly. Louise saw note tied at the bird's leg, she took it and the pigeon flew away
"It's a letter from her highness" Louise said
"Really?" I asked "what does it say?"
Louise explained that the letter was a request from the princess to capture the corrupted nobles in the village, and since she was kept in the castle thanks to the advisors. She appointed us to do it for her.
"So on Henrietta's request, we became her special enforcers?" I asked
"That seems about right" Louise nodded "I will act upon her majesty's command"
"Uh Louise, are you sure that you can handle this?" I can tell that this mission will be very hard for her
"Of course!" Louise prompted "it shall be easy like taking a walk!"
"Like taking a walk huh?" I asked sarcastically
Louise just huffed at me, when we started this mission the girl already lost the money given from Henrietta to us by gambling, unfortunately she had poor skills and luck so we are left out in the street
"Don't blame me for trying to get a decent room!" she huffed
"Louise..." I sighed "I know that you have status, but in this mission you have nothing… which means you aren't a noble, and you're doing this for her majesty's sake"
Louise felt bad about that, losing the money that was used for food and shelter are gone and being reminded that her best friend asked her to do this didn't help either...
The two of us were sitting on the edge of the fountain thinking on what to do now
Louise sighed before asking me "is there any way to fix this...?"
"Well, we could just ask the princess for a loan" Louise cringed "yeah, I knew you'd hate that... the only other way for us get money is to get a job"
She gaped at the alternative "you're kidding…right?"
"Either that or we beg for the money back" I replied
I know Louise doesn't like to degrade herself even further... now where to we find one? It's not like someone will come and offer us a job right now...
"Tres bien!"
The both of us blinked at the shout, we turned to see a man… or what I thought it'd be admiring us. He was dressed in tight purple tank top, and very short-shorts, he wore leather shoes, wrist-cuffs with a collar and bowtie on his neck. Suffice to say, his choice of outfit didn't hide the man's well-built body. He had short black hair with a moustache and beard… oddly enough he was wearing bright lipstick and mascara on his face.
The man gracefully skipped toward us
"What a marvelously cute face you have there" the man smiled at Louise "you two seem to be in a bit of trouble"
'No kidding' I mentally agreed
"My name is Scarron" he introduced with a slight bow "I run an inn just down the road from here"
"An inn?" Louise asked
"Yes an inn" he smiled "I can lend you a room for free"
"Really?-!" Louise and I gaped
"But…" Scarron interjected "I want a favor in return"
That bad feeling from the academy just came back
At times when good people came and help you with problems, good things will happen...
Scarron's offer was really genuine. All he wanted in return was for us to work for it, room and board which was reasonable. Scarron's inn was called the fairy inn; it was a nice place and it's in good shape, it had a good atmosphere with the soothing aromas to relax and the kitchen has good food
While the place is an inn, it was also a tavern... it had a big enough space for all customers
If there was a tavern then there are waitresses
Such attractive waitresses...
To deal the competition with other inns... Scarron had a special theme with his little group, nine in total; they wore short-skirted, bareback and shoulder less clothing. To be honest those outfits would likely appear on a fairy. Hence the name of the inn
Scarron proved to be a kind boss, he was a person that took the time to introduce the new employees to his dear fairies and they showed Louise their techniques on how to get the best tips. Suffice to say, she was mortified to see those tricks... with her noble pride she would feel very embarrassed and will try to fight back om the patrons
I was watching Louise from the kitchen and I can already that she won't like her position one bit...
"Hey new guy, you can look at the fairies later" a voice behind me shouted "help me get the dishes ready!"
"Oh sorry…!" I went to help my superior
The person who was talking to me was an attractive girl with long black hair, green eyes and she had a bandanna to keep her hair from covering her face. She wore a simple green dress that hugged her figure and it showed a bit of her cleavage, she also wore a silver pendant around her neck showing that she wasn't ordinary from the group
But something inside my head said that she looks familiar, even though I just met her tonight. I felt like I knew her somehow. Her name is Jessica and it's odd that she was the daughter of Scarron when he wanted to be called madam...
I was officially the chore boy here since most of the workers are female. For now, I was cleaning the dishes for the big dinner rush coming in soon
"So what your story?" Jessica asked
"Story...?" I asked
"Yeah..." she nodded "it's not everyday that someone was desperate enough to risk their money on gambling to get more by chance, there has something that you got through a hard course"
"Oh that" I sighed "you know how those things go when someone's wants went skyward"
"I'm sure " she grinned "you're lucky that dad found you. This week we're having the annual tip race"
"Tip race?" I asked while drying a plate
"That's right" she nodded
It turns out that the fairy inn has a special competition called a tip race. If one of the fairies gets enough tips then she gets a bonus and will wear the fairy bustier, it was an heirloom told by Scarron that the girl wearing it was given a powerful charm that the customers will give big tips to her easily
"Wow" I whistled "that's some heirloom..."
"Yeah, which is why business is good" Jessica leaned over to me while giving a seductive smile "so where are you from...?"
"Well I just moved into Tristain weeks ago" I smiled "I met Louise when I arrived, at first we had it rough" and that's just a general term "we had a few adventures together and now we're just travel buddies"
"Travel buddies..." she snickered and got back to work "that's a good way to put it, but it still doesn't answer my question though"
"It doesn't huh?" I laughed "where do you think I'm from...?"
"Oh, so it's a game huh?" Jessica smiled "okay I'll play, I'll just watch you for a while and then guess" her smile turned sultry "question is: what do I get when I win?"
"Well…" Jessica really knew how to turn the tables "when I get paid, I guess I'll take you out for dinner"
"A dinner date?-! That's perfect!" Jessica smiled
Wow… she really took that well, I guess just having her company made me say that without noticing
"I swear if I didn't know any better, you were trying to seduce me" she smirked "as flattering that is... there is work to do! I'll have that dinner date before the night is through...!"
Jessica is really competitive, it made me wonder how she got that kind of vigor when her dad created this inn...
The night work started, customers sprang in through the front door for dinner or drink. The fairies gave an ear and delivered their food, Jessica handled all the cooking while I took care of the cleaning, cooking tools and storage supplies.
Unfortunately Louise refused to do her job and the customers teased her for lacking certain proportions the drunken men would always point that out, luckily Scarron came to her rescue making the tension and complaint stop instantly
"Scarron sure knows how to handle them" I watched the outbreak easily calm down as the fairies and Lousie laughed at his charm on the customers
"You know, I've never seen dad take action that much..." Jessica spoke finishing another dish from the stove
"Sorry" I spoke "Louise wasn't really popular in her home, she was always teased for looking childlike and thanks to one Germanian girl... her mood is always tense thanks to her natural beauty"
"Oh, so there's someone trying to match me?" Jessica questioned, before making a pose making herself presentable
I imagined she and Kirche will compete for my attention... making shiver slightly
I just hope not to pass out when that happens...
The night finally ended and everyone got to their rooms for a well needed rest after a hard night's work, although Louise didn't like the room since her place was filled with luxury than needs.
"TH-THEY EXPECT THE DAUGHTER OF THE DUKE TO-!"
"Louise stop…" I sighed getting tired of her complaints after cleaning up a pile of dishes "you still don't know how lucky we are to get a free room, and be happy that Scarron helped you tonight"
"I was in the right to be angry...!" Louise growled "those drunks teased my...my-!"
"I know Louise, I heard the racket" I took some extra pillows and blankets to make bed on the floor "besides this place is nice for the mission the princess assigned us"
"Huh?" Louise instantly forgot her reason about fitting in with the common folk due to her noble pride "what do you mean?"
I rubbed my head that my master has forgotten that "Louise, don't you think that this inn has been so popular that it could be the place where nobles could get in without the need to spend so much of their money...?"
Louise pondered on that "That is true, but all the drunks here have been talking nonsense!"
"Please Louise, bear a bit of this burden" I pleaded "do this for the princess..."
Louise huffed at my plea but agreed "okay… I'll do this for her"
"Good" I nodded "now let's get some sleep for tomorrow okay?"
At the streets where everything was dark and quiet with the wind slowly breezing through. A lone figure walked throughout the road wearing a hooded cloak covering his identity. He heard rumors about a corrupt noble abusing his status and taxing up the amount for no other reason but his gains
"I'll get you soon..." he grinned "you'll be shocked at what I'll do to you"
The man held up a small box, he was happy to finally get some payback and most of all... he'll get to make that scum suffer!
Morning arrived and I plus Louise started working at the day since a few fairies only worked at this time
"You know" Jessica spoke as I dried the dishes "that's a nice outfit, where did you get it?"
"Oh this?" I pulled on my trial shirt "a tailor just got creative on the clothes and Louise gave it to me as a gift"
"Hmm" Jessica nodded "do you think I could get her to make clothes on what dad has in mind?"
"If you insist on that" I shrugged at the suggestion, after knowing the way my boss acted, I'm pretty sure that he'll make spare clothing for his little darlings
For a man in his weirdness... he has the biggest heart in the business
Time went by and Jessica started to nose around about my life, at first I thought she was just curious but then she started to think I came from Germania the northern part of the continent filled with elite troops ready for war, and then from Romalia a place where people live with big beliefs on the magic told from their ancestors
"Oh and are you a collector? I saw admiring an item" she mentioned
Jessica must've seen my Accel memory, of course the memory holds power of the world. But in the wrong hands... they are instruments of destruction
"You do know that it's rude to ask about personal things..."
"Maybe" she giggled "but when I suspect a good story, I just have to hear it!"
Jessica continued to cook while I cleaned more of the plates, just then all of the clamor suddenly halted. Jessica and I stopped and looked to see why the sudden silence. We saw a fat man in bright clothes, he lost most of his hair and he had a face that only a mother could love.
Behind him were his personal guards each of them carried a stick with a heavy metal end which is used to bash offenders.
"Who's he...?" I asked
"He's Turenne, one of the princess' agents for the village" Jessica frowned "he's always abused his authority to people who disagree and helps those who blindly serve him"
Wow, what a stroke of luck! I just found the culprit from Henrietta's message and I have to thank Scarron for hiring me and Louise
Speaking of, the boss was trying hard to appease the man. The inn was already full and with him and his guards arriving, there isn't any space left...
When Turenne acted his guards took out their weapons and threatened everyone to get lost. The men stood up and instantly left the inn. I was shocked to see this, the princess was right to be concerned, seeing the corrupt nobles do whatever they want without knowing the consequences is a big mistake.
Since Turenne sat down on a table, he ordered for anything as long he could get a girl at his side. But the fairies were to scared to act, Louise bravely went forward and delivered a tray of food on one hand and a bottle of wine on the other.
When the corrupted man saw her he was really disappointed. He joked how small her chest which made Louise mad, and then he was suggesting that he could make them bigger by groping her.
Louise couldn't stand it anymore and then she was about to-
WHAM!
At first I thought it was Louise using her magic, but all eyes were at the door, I turned and saw a lone figure with an outstretched leg. His face was covered thanks to his cloak but he had a sinister smile showing that he was up to something
Turenne snapped his fingers "GUARDS!"
One of them took out his baton and dashed to the figure and struck him.
BASH!
The hooded man just stood there as if the hit was nothing making everyone speechless!
"What's wrong?" He asked "that all you got? Here, let me show you how it's done"
CRACK!
"AARRGH!"
The guard fell to the floor holding his broken arm and then got kicked unconscious by the man as an act of mercy
"Anyone else wishing to challenge me...?" he asked
The guards were completely scared at what they had seen, But Turenne said otherwise
"Well, what are you waiting for? Get rid of him!"
They looked at their boss and then at the hooded man and they decided:
"LET'S GET OUT OF HERE...!"
"NO MONEY IS WORTH THIS!"
The group dropped their batons and scrambled out the backdoor leaving Turenne alone
"It seems that your only help can't save you now..." the man started to walking to his target
"SOMEBODY SAVE ME!" the idiot cried in desperation
It's nice to see him screaming, but Henrietta needed proof that her home is in trouble...so I jumped over the window ignoring Jessica's screams and tackled the hooded man through the window
CRASH!
I rolled away from my enemy and stood up
"I have to say boy, you are brave" the man stood up feeling amused by my actions "you peaked my interest"
"I'm sure you have something that would make you great" I have a feeling that the man could do it
"I was saving this for Turenne's torture, but you're more worth it" the man reached in his pocket and revealed a Gaia memory
Violence
He pressed it against his arm and the change started, his body became bulky, all the muscles were huge. He became a living weapon; his head was a black dome only showing his teeth in a growl and finally his left hand changed into a steel ball.
The fairies were really scared to see the transformation… they only hoped that their friend would be okay
"Well, you're not the only one who can do that!"
I took out my acceldriver and memory
"Hen…SHIN!"
Accel
My armor appeared and I prepared myself for the fight
"I knew that you're worth more than that scum of a noble!" the violence dopant grinned "you have that same magic as he!"
'He...?'
My thoughts halted when I was almost hit by the iron ball aimed right at me, upon instinct I ran up to the dopant and delivered a punch to his abdomen
Klang!
"AAAHHG!" I held my arm close from the pain, the dopant's body was like steel and it hurt me instead of hurting it
Bam!
The violence Dopant hit Peter with his iron ball hand and sent him across the rubble almost giving him a concussion. The fairies cringed watch from inside and cheered to Peter to keep fighting. Louise had thought otherwise.
'He won't last...'
Louise dashed to her room with Jessica following behind
"Louise!" Jessica shouted "what are you doing!?"
"Helping...!" Louise answered
The pinkette took Derflinger and ran back out, she went to the door and saw her familiar struggling
"Peter!" Louise to the sword to him
I looked to my side and saw Derf flying at me, I grabbed it before flashing in red light changing into the engine blade. I had at least a chance to fight back now. I opened my blade and placed the engine memory inside
Engine
I readied myself and pressed the trigger
Jet
I ran forward and made an attack
Pak!
I was shocked to see the Dopant blocking my sword with his right arm as it fizzled on the monster's skin. The power of violence makes the user ignore pain
"It's good to see that you are still fighting, but you have to do better than that"
He tossed me away like I was nothing, I was running out of options and I began to lose hope. The audience continued to cheer me on and I struggle to stand up
'If only I had more power...' I thought
During the battle a lone figure looked at the scene from the rooftop and smiled "you really are compatible with that memory..." he took out an item from his pocket "I think you deserve to evolve..."
He tossed the item into battle and waited for the outcome
"Let's see if you can pass this test"
I started to pant, all that was left is to fight him bare-handed and that was impossible thanks to his tough body. But when I looked up something gleamed, I reached out and caught it, to my surprise it was a Gaia memory...!
It had a stopwatch attachment and the logo was a letter T... this was the Trial memory!
I wasted no time and removed the Accel memory before pressing the button of my new Gaia memory
Trial
I turned the watch upwards, placed it on my acceldriver and twist the throttle
Trial
Beep
I stood still feeling the memory's power go through my body
Beep
My armor glowed brightly changing from its red color to yellow
BEEP
Finally a ring of blue engine pistons appeared on my feet and spun upwards changing my armor into a new set...!
My armor was completely blue with black strips on my arms and legs, there was thin metal plating on my torso, my helmet became lightweight with a roof over my now orange visor
I have become Accel… Trial!
Scarron, Jessica, Louise and the fairies gasped at Peter's new transformation, they dared not make a sound wishing curiously wanting to see how he fight now
"So you changed armor..." the Dopant smiled "let's see if you can do better in that one!"
The monster launched his iron ball at me, I jumped over it and ran on the chain like it was the ground and delivered a few bicycle kicks to the monster's torso making him step back
"Your new armor gave you more speed..." the violence Dopant dusted his chest "but your attacks now are weaker than your first armor"
"On the contrary" I removed the memory from my belt and spun the watch back in place "this will be just enough to stop you..."
Click
I tossed the memory forward and ran to my target, I delivered a few punches making the Dopant stagger before kicking him multiple times. At first it was slow but then I started picking up the pace until my movements turned blurry...!
Everyone was at awe at seeing their savior move so fast and saw a glowing blue T at the monster's body
I stopped my attack and caught the trial memory
Trial Maximum Drive
The trial logo continued to glow until the explosion came
Boom!
The Dopant changed back into his human self and flew back hitting his back against the ground. I looked at my feet to see the violence memory but before I could act, shouting came
"KYAAAAAA!"
I was surrounded by the girls of the fairy inn and they bombarded me with so many questions! I couldn't pick up on what they're saying...!
"Alright that's enough!" Jessica shouted
We turned to see her a bit angry that I was an idiot who made a big mess and seeing the girls became quiet I slipped out and walked to my defeated enemy, placed his back on the wall in a sitting position
"Tell me, who gave you this?" I showed him the Violence memory
The man smiled "it was gift from a man"
"Did he have a name?" I pressed feeling very curious
"He said... he was... Daido..."
That name shocked me…! Only one other person carried that name, even though it was just a movie, he was a hero... he tried to save a group of people but a monster killed them... making the man snap mentally with the only goal to destroy Museum.
His name… Katsumi Daido
Louise ran to my side feeling worried that I was hurt "Peter! Are you alright?"
"I'm fine Louise, just a bit sore" I groaned
After I found out who was giving away the T2 Gaia memories, the man started to wither... he lost his muscles, revealing his bones and then turn into dust... with the wind blowing his remains in the night sky
The side effects of these memories can kill the weak-minded...
Jessica looked at the two of us with a piercing glare 'now I really want to know who you guys are' she turned to her in to see that the mess wasn't big but then she saw Turenne sneaking away.
"Hey he's getting away!" Jessica shouted
Since I was still in my Trial armor, I quickly dashed to my sword and threw it at the noble's direction making him stop
"Going somewhere?"
Turenne shook in fear while Louise walked toward him, being the selfish person he is… the man made his last desperate chance...
"D...do you have any idea who you're dealing with?!"
Louise took out a parchment in her outfit and opened it showing Henrietta's writing of commands and a wax seal of approval
"A noble abusing his status" she answered with a smirk
Seeing that man shocked makes all of the pain I endured this night worth it...
Jessica grinned as she carried a plate of food to Louise and Peter's room while everyone in the fairy inn celebrate. Scarron took out his best wine for not only being saved from Turenne but also the hideous monster that almost destroyed his inn!
"Knock, knock" she called entering the room "how are you feeling Mr. Accel"
"Fine I guess" Peter sat on his bed with bandages covering his chest and left forearm "judging from the noise downstairs, everyone must be happy"
"Well… you and Louise did save us from the disaster coming at our inn"
"I'm just glad that the problem was fixed and the mess didn't spread" he sighed
"That's right" the girl nodded "I don't know whether to kiss or kill you for doing that stupid stunt earlier..."
"I'd like to keep my death in battle please" he chuckled lamely
"I'm sure you would..." she giggled
Well he did ask for it, Jessica leaped forward giving a small kiss on her savior's cheek while wrapping her arms around his neck
Chu
"A reward for the brave knight" Jessica giggled making hug a bit tighter "by the way... are you a noble like your friend?"
With my powers as Accel, everyone around me assumed that I'm a noble. Even though I have limits, magic is magic in their eyes. I suppose that was all they needed to guess...
Meanwhile Louise was already drunk from the party from the fairies, and they were still celebrating their rescue and freedom from the corrupted officer with a generous tip from the man that would be kept in case for emergencies
To be continued…