Gudao sat in his room fiddling around with his pen as he read the last piece of his share of paperwork for the week. One of his master's uniforms hung from a small hanger attached to the wall, newly pressed and cleaned from the laundry. Several more were prepared and hung in his closet, but there were no planned deployments today so he opted for something more casual; Having Gabrielle as a second master freed up a lot of time. A blue polo and tan slacks represented his usual choice for casual style.
He had woken at six as usual to finish the last remaining paperwork, but was clearly disturbed by something.
With a small frown, the male master fiddled with the pen absentmindedly, not even paying attention to the last report in front of him. Quietly, he would take peeks at his clock and the door repeatedly instead of focusing on his work. This had only grown more common as time went on; Something clearly wasn't right.
Pink hair and a genuine smile were supposed to enter the master's room every morning. She would provide her usual morning greeting after knocking politely and entering, using her own key so she wouldn't interrupt his work more than necessary. She'd always have a set of two bagels with light cream cheese spread within, accompanied by a small carton of orange juice to tie them both over before breakfast. As Gudao's stomach rumbled audibly in anticipation, he looked towards the clock and blinked. The terminal's time stated 0713.
Mashu was fourteen minutes later than usual, and she was never late.
His curiosity now filling his eyes, Gudao discarded the last report to finish later and walked towards the door. Smoothing his polo with one hand, he let the door slide open and nearly walked into his best friend. She too was dressed casually, wearing only a blue yoga pants and matching sweater with her side ponytail undone to allow her hair to fall naturally. Both of them stared blankly at each other as Gabrielle retracted her hand from the door's key card reader.
"Needed something, Gabby?"
"I actually came to see if you and Mashu wanted to play some basketball. Later but before lunch I mean."
"Basketball?" Gudao raised an eyebrow before a playful smirk crossed his face. "You done with your pile yet?"
"Of course I am!" Gabrielle stated while crossing her arms with a huff. As the man's eyebrow rose ever so slightly more, she sighed and relented. "…about half."
Gudao laughed. "As I thought."
After sticking her tongue out at him, she peered around his room before looking back at him confused. "Mashu in the bathroom?"
"I was going to go see if she was in her room. She and Fou didn't come this morning."
"Huh," Gabrielle mused as she began walking towards their friend's door.
Though she was originally in the master's wing to begin with, Mashu's room had been moved a month before Gabrielle became an official master. Besides Lord El-Melloi II, she was often his closest advisor and servant so her room was placed adjacent to his own. The room next to Gabrielle's was vacant as they passed its door, but there was some discussion about a new owner since Scathach was her closest servant and advisor. Luckily she didn't have very many extra furniture or personal belongings to move aside from clothes, should she choose to accept.
Arriving at the door, Gabrielle politely knocked and waited for an answer. She never bothered doing that with Gudao for obvious reasons, but it was slowly becoming the same case with Mashu; She did it with anyone she was very familiar with. They waited with no answer. In case she was sleeping in, Gabrielle raised her hand and knocked a little harder, but stopped upon hearing small cough through the door.
The masters looked at each other when there was another cough, this time closer. The door opened and revealed Mashu still in her light blue pajamas and without glasses. The top was just slightly undone, making Gudao turn away out of respect for her, though it didn't reveal anything serious. Gabrielle might have made a choice comment with a knowing grin if she wasn't currently looking at Mashu's flushed face and exhausted eyes. The breaths coming out of her slightly opened mouth was the last sign she needed to know.
"Hi Gabby… Senpai…" She coughed lightly into her arm. "I'm sorry I didn-"
"Oh Mashu, I'm sorry! I didn't know. I shouldn't have made you get up," Gabrielle interrupted quickly before the orange haired woman lightly pushed her friend back into the room. "Let's get you back to bed… Gudao!"
"I'll get Doctor Roman," He stated as he began hastily walked towards the elevators, but not before Fou quickly zipped out the door and jumped onto his shoulders.
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Fragment 19: Bedridden Isn't so Bad
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Mashu was beyond embarrassed and a little disappointed.
Somehow, she had fallen ill. Her fatigued body and tired state caused her to miss the morning alarm. Instead of properly brining Gudao his light snack with a fresh smile, she was stuck in her own bed. She was silently pleased Gudao wished to do it for her this time after getting Doctor Roman, but he forgot and rushed to see her again instead; It was the thought that counted at least.
Her company waited patiently in her room, which could have been a near exact copy of Gudao's with its basic furniture choice. The main difference was the small china cabinet that held a bunch of her favorite souvenirs and gifts. It was designed much like the rest of Chaldea's modernistic design, formed in a half cylindrical shape to showcase its wares. There were a few pictures inside too, though they were a mix between her own and George's gifted copies.
Scathach leaned on the wall next to it with arms crossed over her black turtleneck. Her calm eyes glanced through the cabinet's contents, but occasionally looked over to the trio of Chaldea's council seeing to Mashu. She had often stared at the overly concerned look from the doctor before it had eased significantly upon further checks, choosing not to voice her curiosity. Though she was definitely not on her deathbed, she knew why Roman was so upset; She just didn't wish to inform them why.
"It's just a mild cold," Roman stated as he folded his stethoscope and placed it into one of his coat pockets. Placing his hand on Mashu's forehead one last time, he nodded lightly before turning back to Gudao. "It should pass in a day or two at most. But she needs rest."
Gudao smiled, but noted Doctor Roman still looked a little worried. "Thanks, Doctor."
"I'll be sure to check up on her a few more times today, and I'll get some medicine to help you along," The man stated quickly before getting up and walking towards the door. He turned back and gave a small smile to Mashu. "I know you like helping Gudao and Gabrielle, but I think it will be the other way around for now. It'll be a nice change, I hope."
"Um… Okay," She replied in a small voice before slowly falling back onto her pillow. "Thank you…"
"Anytime, Mashu… Feel better soon," The Doctor said before the door opened, a tinge of worry laced in his voice that did not go unnoticed by her or the masters. As the door closed behind him, Scathach looked questioningly towards the masters as they nodded towards each other in confirmation.
"How curious," Scathach stated plainly.
"He sounded a lot more worried than a doctor should over a cold. AKA, not at all," Gabrielle said while she crossed her arms. "Is he hiding something?"
"Doctor was always worried for me," Mashu quietly reassured, making all three turn towards her. "He always got like this when I get sick."
She trusted Gudao, Gabrielle, and even the serious and dignified Scathach… but she couldn't tell them of her origin as a person. Maybe the doctor would, but she didn't want anything to change. She enjoyed how they treated her like a normal person, especially Gudao. It made her happy, and that was something she didn't want to lose after the lack of… everything in her younger days. Maybe in time they would know, but for now she wished for it to remain a secret.
"I guess he's got some paternal instincts," Gudao surmised with a small smile, his worry vanishing quickly. "I guess we shouldn't think too much about it."
"Mmm," The female master mused slightly, still feeling strange about how he acted, but soon brushing it aside. "I think we're all broken records, but just get some rest, Mashu. We'll be here if you need anything."
"It's alright, Gabby. You and Scathach can go about your day as planned. I'll keep her company," Gudao stated, making the other three girls look at him. There was a small shine in Mashu's eyes as her heartbeat quickened, but Gabrielle's stare was outright dumbfounded.
"Wait, no. You can't do tha-"
"All my paperwork is done save for one report. You still have a stack… and a friendly basketball game of Ireland versus Great Britain," Gudao responded quickly to quiet his best friend. She only groaned, making him roll his eyes. "I've taken care of you before when you got sick! I did very well, as you will recall correctly, and I don't need to help her bathe if she needs to."
The thought of Gudao bathing with her made the shielder's cheeks heat up. Thankfully, no one seemed to notice thanks to her state. Even though she attempted to hide her growing affection for Gudao, it was difficult. She just couldn't hide her emotions or reactions that well, but she never had that much practice until these past few months. It was why she couldn't hide the warm smile of just thinking about a genuinely caring Gudao keeping her company.
Gabrielle opened her mouth to make a comment to counter his but visibly realized he was right. Mashu knew she was a very sore loser though, and wasn't surprised when she smirked playfully and went for a cheap shot. Unfortunately, she aimed it at her. "But what if you do want to help?"
Mashu's flush deepened considerably as the female master waggled her eyebrows, making Gudao blush very noticeably too. Scathach rolled her eyes from her spot and suppressed a chuckle as the male master practically stammered, "I-I wouldn't! That's not right!"
"Hmm," Gabrielle mused with her smirk still in place before slowly getting up. She smoothed her dress calmly as her best friend crossed his arms and groaned. She winked at him. "Okay then. You make a compelling case at least. Just call for us if you need any extra help!"
Gudao sighed and smiled. "Will do. Thanks, Gabby."
"Sure, sure," she replied with a small wave of her hand before making her way towards the door. Scathach pushed off the wall and walked next to her friend as she opened the door for both of them. After stepping through, but before the door closed, Gabrielle turned back with a sly smile. "Oh… and don't have too much fun."
"Gabby!" they exclaimed together.
The door closed behind Gabrielle as she began slowly walking down the hallway with a little pride in her step and a victorious smirk plastered on her face. Next to her, Scathach rolled her eyes and let out a small chuckle. "You're terrible."
"He's my best friend."
"And he can handle your ribbing. Yes, yes," Scathach continued for her. "That was still direct and embarrassing for them."
"Eh. It'd be less embarrassing if the two would stop beating around the bush," Gabrielle sighed in total exasperation. "He was always so damn passive about girls…"
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"Sorry about that, Mashu," Gudao said quietly with a small tint still visible on his cheeks. To her relief, her cheeks weren't as flushed as they were a few seconds ago at Gabrielle's key suggestions.
"It's okay, Senpai," She replied quietly while closing her eyes, a small smile forming on her lips. "I'm used to her teasing now."
"I'm still not," he groaned. Mashu giggled. Watching their friendship was both heartwarming and incredible to her. She had seen quite a few interactions between friends, but they were nowhere near the level of familiarity as Gabrielle and Gudao. They resembled siblings, and could do anything while the other was present like changing clothes or having a bath. It was an incredible friendship, and she loved witnessing it with small envy at being so close to Gudao.
Gudao took the corner of her blanket and slowly brought it back up to cover her torso. She lifted her arms lightly to allow him to shift the blanket under them as Fou hopped onto the bed. The small familiar grabbed the blanket's opposite edge and brought it even with Gudao's side, allowing the shielder to rest her arms before lightly coughing. Fou softly walked next to her face and curled itself on her second pillow, leaving her plenty of space. Its ears twitched occasionally as the two observe-
Gudao's stomach rumbled. The familiar looked towards him curiously, its head tilting slightly, while Mashu opened her eyes with a small smile. He sighed, "I should have told them to get us some breakfast."
"You should go eat, Senpai."
"I don't think I should leave you alo-"
"I'm not dying," She reassured with a giggle before coughing.
He looked conflicted, but her reaffirming eyes eased his doubt. Gudao relented, "Alright… But I'll bring it back here, and fast. I'll bring you some too. What do you desire?"
She watched Gudao mentally kick himself for his occasional wording slips. Still, she only giggled at the sight. Sliding the thought of being content with her senpai considerately at her side, she gave the real answer, "…A country omelette with water?"
"Sure thing," He smiled back before turning back to Fou. He reached over and gently rubbed the critter's fluffy ears, much to its satisfaction. "Watch her for me?"
"Fou!" The familiar chirped happily in response before leaning towards Mashu's cheek and giving her a small lick. She giggled as she brought a hand up to rub the little creature's head affectionately.
Mashu turned to the master as he entered her bathroom. The faucet was turned on, making the small creature turn in curiosity as well, before a few drips and rustling of cloth was heard before he returned with a small, wet towel. He sat down and gingerly placed it over Mashu's forehead, giving her a small smile which she gladly returned.
These little actions of him showed her how much he cared, and she would always relish them. "Thank you."
"I'll be back as fast as possible," Gudao reassured before getting up and walking towards the door. He gave the two one final glance before exiting the room and quickly sprinting down the hall.
Mashu placed a hand gently onto the towel, feeling herself smile softly. Though her day started off poorly, the chance to spend more time with Gudao made her heart warmer than her forehead. By all his considerate actions, past and present, she knew he cared. She only wondered if it was going to turn into the familiarity with Gabby, or if he was actually falling for her too.
With a sigh, she would only have to suppress her optimism further. They had shared quite a few moments together, whether intentional or accidental. As much as she yearned for him, she was afraid she was misinterpreting things. She didn't have as much human interaction as everyone else, so it was a very real possibility. All she could do was wait until he possibly and hopefully chose to be with her. At least she had so many rooting for her success.
There was no doubt she was even silently happy Gabrielle seemed adamant in trying to push them together.
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"Who's a cute little Fou? Yes you are!"
"Fou…"
"You're just so cute!"
Mashu smiled and giggled as Fou turned to her with a clear look in its eye that stated, 'Please save me.'
The furry familiar was currently being held up in the hands of a very enthusiastic rider clad in his usual purple outfit, who had a well-known knack for loving cute things; Poor Fou was one of Astolfo's objects of adoration in the facility. The male servant sat on the floor in the middle of Mashu's room. After Gudao passed him in the hallway, he requested the rider ensured she was alright by herself.
Said servant was currently playing with Fou, much to the small familiar's chagrin. Mashu knew the animal was almost always happy to play with some of the other servants. Astolfo was no exception to that statement. Unfortunately, Mashu kept it up most of the night as her cold grew worse, which made her guilty and overly apologetic to her small friend. Thankfully, the poor fluff ball still wanted nothing more than to curl up and sleep at her side.
The rider had other ideas as he got up and pretended Fou was an airplane, making appropriate sound effects as he gently flew the animal around the room.
"Did you have breakfast already?" Mashu asked quietly while watching Fou attempt to squirm out of the boy's grip.
"I had a few muffins!" he replied happily before pulling Fou to his chest and wrapping his arms around it. The familiar looked a little more pleased at the situation than being turned into a makeshift airliner. "I'll go get breakfast once the real courses are served and Gudao gets back."
The rider took a seat on the chair next to Mashu's bed, placing the fluffy familiar onto the soft blankets much to its relief. After receiving a few pets from the enthusiastic rider, Fou scurried onto Mashu's lap and quickly curled into a ball to catch up on sleep. Astolfo quietly squirmed at the sight making her smile towards the rider. Adjusting herself slightly under her blanket, she felt her eyes slowly closing with a content sigh as she readjusted the still slightly damp towel on her forehead.
"I'll be quiet so you two can sleep."
"Thanks," Mashu said quietly. "Though it won't be long until Senpai returns."
"Mmm," Astolfo mumbled out loud, placing his head in his hands.
Unfortunately, sleep was the last thing her body wanted to do with all the aching. Irritated with not being able to sleep, Mashu kept her eyes closed and tried to force it. Was it really so difficult to get a few minutes of sleep before Gudao came back with food? In her struggle, she remained unaware of the very curious rider staring around her room out of personal boredom.
Standing up and quietly walking around her room, he stared at the cleanliness of the few furniture pieces. He kept the shielder's privacy by not opening any drawers, but had settled for observing what was visible on top of the pristinely kept furniture. Just like Gudao's room, she had several pictures on her dresser, display cabinet, and the walls. The rider lightly walked towards the frames then bent over with his arms behind his back to observe the ones on the dresser first.
They were all with different heroic spirits and faculty, with key servants showing some were taken rather recently. One of the longer ones had the group of Irish servants plus Gabrielle and Mashu posing for a shot at the Party Cave's bar. A smaller one showed Mashu covered with paint of various colors, much like the group of four child servants who surrounded her on the floor. All of them were laughing as Mashu held a displeased Fou whose tail resembled a comically enlarged paint brush. There was even one of her and Drake involving alcohol and flushed faces.
If one looked closely at the background of that last shot, a partially visible Gudao could be seen looking at the pair with worry and fear.
Astolfo continued to look from one picture to another, smiling at the clear popular among the many servants in Chaldea, much like the masters. The many pictures left little room to doubt there was anyone who disliked the kind demi-servant. Staring at the last of the photos on her wall, the rider soon blinked in confusion and glanced over the pictures once more. A lone, empty wall tack served as a particular curiosity. Confirming an unspoken thought, he put his thumb to his lips in a gesture of thinking, yet displaying it for no one, before nodding his head in curiosity.
Mashu, who was still struggling to sleep, heard him mumble, "Huh… Where's her with the masters?"
Curiosity getting the better of the rider, he quickly started looking around the room without peering into any drawers or the closet for the missing picture frame. Mashu gently peeked her eyes open to carefully observe him. His task proved obviously fruitless since she knew what photo he was likely looking for; It was in her drawer.
Still, she kept herself from laughing as she secretly watched his search pattern. He even checked the bathroom for pictures, noting there was just the toilet, sink, and large Jacuzzi tub with shower head. Sighing in resignation as he turned around, Mashu closed her eyes as he walked over to the chair and sat down in it. A cough escaped her lips, but she feigned sleeping. He looked towards her thinking she was awake, but soon shook his head at her light breathing and still eyelids.
The rider proceeded to smooth his skirt, getting slightly restless in his seat- the sleeve accidentally caught on the knob of the nearby nightstand and partially opened it. He brought a hand up to his mouth and looked towards the sleeping girl. With a sigh of relief, Astolfo turned to close the drawer before his eyes sparkled with interest. Unbeknownst to him, Mashu was getting nervous but still hoped for the best.
Opening it slightly more, he looked into the drawer and smiled. He reached in and gently pulled out the picture frame hidden within which had a picture of her with the two masters and Doctor Roman laughing and hugging her. Judging by the master uniform on Gabrielle, it was also fairly recent. The broken hanging strap on the back answered the question of why it was hidden.
"Ah! Here it is," Astolfo mumbled quickly, but soon covered his mouth in case he was being too loud. He turned back to the picture. "I should help her fix the strap…"
Mashu filled with relief as she heard him placing the photo back, but that was not the case. As he was about to place the photo back in, he spotted another frame that had been covered by this one; The sound was him pulling that one out, which was the one she was hoping he wouldn't see. Pulling it out with his free hand, the rider's eyes widened a bit when he flipped the picture with stand to reveal it was a lone shot of her and Gudao.
He had one arm around her in Salon de Marie and was holding up a peace sign to the camera. Mashu had one hand clutched gently on her chest with a small smile and a blush on her face. Her other was tentatively around Gudao's waist to mirror his own. Judging by some of the construction scaffolding on one column, and noting he heard of no renovation since its completion, the rider soon realized this was a picture from many months ago.
Astolfo smiled wider and nearly giggled at the picture before slowly putting it back where it belonged. Gently he placed the other picture frame back on top of it and silently closed the drawer. With a fond smile at his small findings, the rider looked back towards Mashu to ensure she was still- The shielder was looking towards Astolfo with her cheeks looking much more heated. Upon hearing the second noise of rustling picture frames, she knew what had happened.
Astolfo gasped and quickly put a hand to her forehead before she could speak. "Oh no! Is it getting worse!?"
"N-no, it's…. Astolfo…"
"What if it's a fever now!" Fou was now awake, much to its annoyance.
Mashu coughed lightly before weakly raising her voice. "Astolfo."
The rider quickly silenced himself and stared blankly at the shielder before she looked towards her night stand. The rider instantly knew and blushed almost as bright as she was. "I'm sorry! I didn't mean to! I was curious! Your secret is safe I swear I won't tell anyone you're secretly dating especially not Tamamo or Kiyohime!"
Mashu weakly gripped the edge of her blanket, her blush intensifying. "W-We're not dating…"
"…Oh."
Astolfo stared blankly at her. There was a few seconds of silence before the rider scratched his head. "Did he just never ask or-"
These thoughts again. As much as she wanted to believe he liked her but couldn't bring himself to act, she was afraid she was just being overly hopeful. Perhaps she was being blinded by love, since that's what how the saying went, she thinks. It hurt just to think about, but she really didn't want to believe otherwise. Still, she had her own reservations. As much as she wanted to believe…
"I doubt he sees me like that," Mashu said quietly with a sad smile. "We're trying to save the world. That's much more important th-"
"Anton and Frankenstein are seeing each other," Astolfo pointed out plainly.
Mashu was silent for a few seconds before looking away, causing the rider to flinch slightly. "Sorry, I'm being pushy. It's between you two. Sorry for prying and searching through your drawers and-"
"It's fine. Just, don't tell anyone, okay?" she giggled. It was already a pretty fruitless endeavor since she was almost certain half of Chaldea knew thanks to her own inability to conceal it.
"Already said I won't!" Astolfo flashed her a toothy, signature grin. "Oh! Just know I'm silently rooting for you!"
Mashu smiled softly at the loud but friendly rider before the two were interrupted when there was a knocking on the door. She gripped the blanket a little tighter once more as he turned back to look at her. Her heartbeat was racing as her cheeks flushed, "Is that Senpai? H-he didn't possibly hear did h-"
She was interrupted by a few coughs as Astolfo signaled her to wait before getting up. Skipping to the door, it slowly opened and revealed Anton and Frankenstein standing there. The berserker smiled towards her friend before he threw his arms around her in a warm hug. From the bed, Mashu sighed in relief that her paranoid thought hadn't been a reality.
"Hi guys!" Astolfo yelled enthusiastically before releasing his friend and throwing his arms around Anton, who awkwardly hugged him back as Frankenstein giggled next to him. "Here to see Mashu?"
"At first, you actually. Gudao told us you were here watching over her," Anton said with a small smile. The employee turned towards the sick employee and waved, Frankenstein joining him in the gesture. "Hope you feel satisfactory soon, Mashu."
"Get…well…"
"Thank you," The shielder replied with a small smile before coughing into her sleeve. She was filled with relief Gudao, nor them, had heard that small exchange.
"Gudao should be here in a minute or two with your breakfast. When he gets back, want to have breakfast with us?"
"I ate already, but I'll come anyway!" Astoflo cheered.
"Mind if we keep you two company until he gets here?"
Mashu nodded. "That would be nice… thank you."
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Mashu bit down on the fork as Gudao gently pulled it from her, letting the her enjoy the omelette he just fed her. She was admittedly flustered he was going this far for her, but it warmed her heart and made its beating accelerate. Curiously, Mashu would note how embarrassed he was about it as well. She was aware Gudao did this on occasion for Gabrielle too back when they lived together in Britain. It wasn't as common when they lived in America as neighbors since their parents would have tended to that instead.
She was half finished with the omelette, yet Gudao seemed to be getting a touch more nervous with each bite. Was he that worried about screwing this up with her? He was the one to offer to do so, even though she could have done it herself; She couldn't turn down the opportunity to be pampered by him. While thinking about it, she made a content noise as she took the next bite, unknowingly causing him more discomfort. Even the occasional eye contact as he fed her made him squirm when she either closed her eyes or turned away momentarily.
Still, as slightly uncomfortable as he looked, he still continued to do so. She silently hoped it was him wanting to watch over her as she had done so many time for him in the past months. She was happy about that thought, which would banish her doubts to the darkest corner of her mind once more. It made her happy she was his closest servant and first friend he made in Chaldea, if only because she could relish these small moments of them together.
However, her heart would forever yearn for more… but not just from him.
She always wanted a family, and though she occasionally entertained the idea of having one with him… she would begrudgingly accept being considered family too. She had never had one, and she longer for the parental affection she'd glimpsed from some like the Animuspheres or the Sharmas. If it came to it, she supposed she could be happy with him as family like Gabrielle. Maybe he didn't want to risk their friendship like he almost did with Gabrielle… but she wouldn't mind risking it if it meant a chance to show him how much she cared.
Right now, though, her only little wish was to quench her thirst. "May I have some water?"
"Of course," He smiled softly at her before placing the breakfast dish gently on her bed. He then picked up the glass from the chair he had placed next to him.
He carefully held the glass to her lips and slowly tilted it back to let the refreshing drink reach her mouth. Watching her carefully to ensure he didn't flood her with the liquid, he observed as she swallowed each gulp. She had her eyes slightly closed and had tilted her head slightly back, enjoying the refreshing drink slip down her throat. Her flushed cheeks moved slightly with each gulp of cold water.
With nowhere else to look should he mess up, Gudao stared her as she drank. She could feel her eyes on him, making her flush with increasing embarrassment as her heartbeat increased. She didn't see him gazing at her expression in a daze as she drank. All she knew was he tipped the glass a little too far, making a small trickle of water fall from the side of her mouth. It raced down her neck and into her still slightly open shirt.
She let out a small moan that made his cheeks flush a little deeper before he snapped out of his small daze, taking the glass away as she gasped lightly for air. Mashu turned towards him with a half-lidded expression due to her sleep-deprived state as she panted gently for air. She made a small, confused sound as Gudao's eyes remained locked on her in astonishment. Suddenly, before she could ask, he placed the glass down on the chair and picked up the napkin before gently wiping her mouth and neck.
"Damn. Sorry, Mashu. I got… lost in thought."
"About what, Senpai?" The way she weakly asked that question between her slowing pants made him freeze momentarily. She looked at him curiously.
"…Future paperwork. Sorry, not proper. I know," He answered quickly, as he looked down at her slightly damp shir- "Let me go get a hand towel for you."
He bolted into her bathroom as Fou stayed curled in a ball on her lap, staying soundly asleep through the whole ordeal. Mashu looked down at her shirt and noticed it wasn't as soaked as she thought. Her tired and ever shifting mind was only starting to finally comprehend any possibility as she touched the damp spots. In the background, the faucet turned on as Mashu blushed at what Gudao might have imagined.
There were a few murmurs and some rustling of a towel, but she didn't think much of it in her embarrassment. She looked up as Gudao made his return, a towel in each hand. He placed the damp towel on the table next to the now warm one, both in a small dish to keep her nightstand clean. Next to the small dish was the medicine Doctor Roman gave for her cold. He handed the other towel to her so she could dry herself, and she took it graciously while staring curiously at his slightly damp face.
She now knew why he was likely embarrassed, but she wasn't going to point out that she knew; She did feel more hopeful though. "Are you ok, Senpai?"
"Ah… yea. I just decided to wash my face real quick. That's all."
He looked relieved as she proceeded to dry herself properly instead of pushing the issue further. Turning back towards the dish on her bed, he picked it up and held it in one hand, grabbing the fork with the other. He looked recomposed and far less nervous than before, but there were still the hints of embarrassment. After seeing this, she finally understood.
He did like her, and he was trying to suppress it. Whether he's waiting or has a few reservations keeping him from closing the gap, she didn't know. Mashu would only remain respectful and cling onto the hope in her heart that she was not being delusional over what just happened. She would gladly wait as long as necessary for him to become comfortable enough to make a move. Maybe Gabrielle would help him close that gap since she was apparently rooting for them.
Whatever the case may be, she was already feeling much better than before in more ways than one.
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Roman and Gabrielle came by a few times to check on her and Gudao, but it was the heroic spirit population that surprised her. Quite a few servants had paid her a visit, which was a delightful treat. Xuanzang and Tota stopped by to give a quick hello and Lancelot was supposedly coming to check on her later. Currently, two other servants kept her company in her senpai's absence.
"Lancelot made several slam dunks against Cu. He made Camelot proud."
"Made up for all those three pointers Scathach kept getting."
Fou, with curious and well rested eyes, stared at the servants seated next to the bed while in the loving arms of Mashu. She was less flushed thanks to the medicine given by Doctor Roman, but also because Gudao currently wasn't here. The two were currently accompanied by Jeanne and Arturia instead.
The master was answering a small incident involving an impromptu singing contest between Nero and Elizabeth after lunch. Since there was usually some warning beforehand, there wasn't anything wrong with singing contests they held on a random basis. This time, however, they decided the library made a good stage. At the very least, Shakespeare had found it amusing though his colleagues were much less enthusiastic about the idea.
Jeanne and Arturia both wore similar white shirts but different colored gym shorts since they had left for lunch after the basketball game ended. Arturia's blue and Jeanne's amethyst were expected colors for the girls. They had planned on getting freshened up after lunch, but at Gudao's request they were gladly keeping their mutual friend company. It wasn't often she got to spend personal time with either off the battlefield, so their visit was pleasant.
Mashu smiled. "Sounds like it was a great game."
Arturia grew in her chair slightly with pride. "Even better because my team won."
"With help from your wonderful French ally," Jeanne added in with a small wink and a laugh before the two high fived each other.
"I wish I could have seen it."
"Yes. But rest is more important for you," Arturia declared with a small smile before there was a knock at the door. The trio turned to watch it open and reveal Gudao as he stepped through with a small smile. "How did it go, master?"
"I told them they can use the auditorium whenever they wanted a personal contest, and that they're welcome to invite whoever to watch," He stated simply before walking over and standing next to Mashu's bed. "Don't know why I never thought of it before."
"Let's hope it works," Jeanne smiled before sighing. "I like to enjoy the public spa without the random concert."
"Agreed," Arturia said before standing up with her blonde friend. "It was a pleasure, Mashu. We hope you get better soon."
"Thanks, Arturia and Jeanne!" Mashu said with a small smile as Jeanne nodded and followed the king out of the room. Gudao walked over and took his seat once more as the door closed behind the girls, who found themselves in their own conversation once more.
As the two servants walked down the hallway towards their room, they failed to take notice of the servant who had stopped in her tracks upon seeing the King of Knights. With an almost blank yet tense expression, the tomboyish saber waited for the two to disappear further down the hallway before approaching Mashu's room with both hands behind her back. Mordred kept her eyes on her father's back as her ripped jeans made some slight rubbing noise while attempting to stay quiet. Her black, blank shirt was a little loose on her and waved slightly as she finished her approach. After one final glance, she knocked on the door.
Seconds later, Gudao opened the door and raised an eyebrow upon seeing Mordred with her usual, enthusiastic grin. "Hey Gudao! How's Mashu feeling?"
Mashu chuckled at the eager saber. Gudao pressed himself against the doorway and motioned inward. "Care to see for yourself?"
"I won't be bothering?"
"I woke up from my nap an hour ago," Mashu replied with a kind smile from within the room. "I feel a little better thanks to it."
"Great!" Mordred grinned before walking into the room and showing the small present she was hiding behind her back. "I brought some chocolate to help you feel even better. A rare gift for the only shield bearer I don't hate!"
Mashu and Gudao chuckled at Mordred's occasional, unusual way of complimenting others as the door slid closed behind her. It was the former Saber of Red's turn to miss the attention she had received from the two blondes who had stopped upon noticing Mordred at Mashu's door. Arturia had not missed the happy grin on her face, the small box of chocolates, nor her consideration for Mashu's rest. She sighed, making the ruler next to her give a concerned expression for her friend.
"Do you want to…"
"Let's go, Jeanne."
The King of Knights turned away and kept walking, though the Maid of Orleans simply watched her back for a moment before quickly catching up. There were few things that got past Jeanne involving her closest friends, and she knew very well how uncomfortable of a topic Arturia's illegitimate 'son' was for her and Lancelot. She knew very well there was much more to it now rather than just simple anger at Mordred's rebellion. But she wasn't about to bring it up, since the two seemed to avoid each other at the very least for Chaldea's sake.
She just hoped it wouldn't cause a problem later on.
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"Do you need help with a bath?" "I have a natural home remedy for some colds if you'd like. I doubt it'd interfere with the medicine." "I'll go change the water out. You sure you don't want a bath?"
"Thank you, but I'm alright," Mashu smiled towards the three servants.
The trio had hurriedly ushered Gudao out of the room so they could spend time with Mashu, or more accurately ensure she was completely okay; Her significantly less flushed cheeks was her provided the motherly women with a satisfactory answer. Atalanta wore green sweatpants and a casual black shirt on top while Irisviel wore a long, white modest dress with red accents. Boudica wore a white skirt and a red blouse while keeping her hands busy with gathering any other used dishes onto the small tray that had been in the room since lunch.
The rider had been quietly making a note to chastize Gudao about being cleaner, but Mashu had pointed out how he was more concerned not leaving her alone. The other two were replacing the damp towels with new ones and changing Mashu's blankets with fresh ones from the closet. Fou watched from a small pile of nearby pillows, all of which were also new and delivered by robots; Out of consideration for her, they never even entered to clean her room.
The three women had been there barely a few minutes before they had started acting motherly towards the sick demi-servant. She silently wondered how many times they did this for someone they cared deeply about. Their motherly antics amused Mashu, who blushed at the amount of care shown whenever she coughed lightly, but thankfully nowhere near as often as earlier that day; It was apparent the medicine was working.
The amount of time they spent with the children, or specifically Atalanta's since they were here longer, obviously had a serious effect on how they acted. Quietly, she enjoyed being coddled since she never got to experience it in her childhood. While those days were depressing, she loved what her life had become now. Being cared for so affectionately made her feel happy, and made all those lonely nights in the now abandoned observation wing worth it.
Slowly her thoughts wandered to imagine scenarios where Illyasviel or Nursery Rhyme would get sick and the trio would be catering to their every need. The thought train made the demi-servant smile and giggle when she thought of what might possibly happen if it was Emiya who had gotten sick instead. Atalanta smiled at the fair-spirited shielder. "What's the joke, Mashu?"
"Don't leave us hanging," Irisviel smiled as she finished folding the blanket neatly over Mashu's legs.
"Just thinking how kind you three are, that's all," Mashu stated before sniffling a bit. A tissue box was in her face before she could even blink, which she gladly took from Atalanta. Boudica had returned from the bathroom with a filled, small pan of cold water and placed it gently on a chair next to her bed.
The red haired rider smiled politely at Mashu as she took a small, dry towel and began to soak it in the pan. "Final offer, you sure you don't want us to run you a nice bubble bath?"
Irisviel winked at her. "You'll feel much better. Promise."
"Um," Mashu hesitated in thought before she nodded. "Okay, I'll take the offer then."
The rider smiled before handing the damp towel to Irisviel. As the caster placed the towel gingerly on Mashu's forehead, now resting on new pillows Atalanta placed, the rider went back into the bathroom. Soon the Jacuzzi tub's faucet was running with a fully open valve, the sound of which got Mashu a little eager at appreciating the impromptu service. She felt like she was receiving royal treatment like in all the books she's read.
She sighed contently as Irisviel and Atalanta talked by her closet, writing out the special request service sheet for a room service robot to retrieve. While the robot workforce did most of the chores in the morning, one was left on standby to cater to her needs. Her thoughts were quickly diverted as she listened to the running water, imagining Boudica mixing in the bubble bath solution already. Her soft humming that echoed from the bathroom made it feel more inviting.
Mashu was pretty jealous of the motherly treatment the girls must often get, so she would enjoy every second of this family luxury.
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"Looks like the medicine did the trick."
"Yes, thank you. The medicine worked wonders."
Doctor Roman smiled as he visually inspected Mashu one last time. Her cheeks were no longer flushed and she looked well rested the following morning. She was glad he was beyond relieved nothing got worse than that, though she was never worried it would. It wasn't his intention to keep such information from them for so long, but Mashu could still safely say it was his fault.
He'd been dragging his feet on revealing this critical information, partially out of fear for them acting differently because of it; To be fair, she was too. Through all their antics and interactions, they've created a wonderful environment and working relationship. The masters certainly appreciated it, even if they joined in on her occasional scolding. Though she sometimes criticized and reprimanded him when he acted goofy over the communications link, she knew he was just being himself and raising their spirits.
In all honesty, she was beyond glad Roman was there for her for this long. She couldn't have imagined if it was someone else observing her through that examination glass. Roman had heart, and though he certainly wasn't the most ideal father figure, he was currently the closest she had to family. However, they both knew he could only allow himself to become a close friend; He felt his own sins against her were far too great, but he was still happy and adamant to be there for her.
Perhaps in time, he could become closer to her, as could the masters. Maybe they would learn the truth and be alright with it. She could only hope when that time comes, everything would remain the same, but without the invisible walls of concealment. Perhaps she'd even find a real father-like figure that Roman assured she would certainly find one day. If not, Roman would definitely had the goofy mentality to become the kind and eccentric uncle she's heard many families often have.
"I heard you got some visitors yesterday," He tried to make small talk as he pulled out a clipboard to fill out the medical report. "Nothing too crazy I hope."
"Just Nero," She giggled at the recent memory. "I got a bit of a headache because… well, Nero being Nero."
"Ah… that would do it," He mused with a chuckle.
There was a knock on the door before it slid open to reveal the two masters in their respective uniforms. Gabrielle's smile became larger upon seeing Mashu sitting in the chair across from the doctor in good spirits. She rushed over and gave her a small hug, which was happily returned. Gudao casually walked in and nodded towards Roman while the two girls talked animatedly.
"All better?"
"Full recovery, record time," Roman stated happily while holding up the bottle of medicine with a proud stare. "Someone could make a fortune on this stuff."
"Just don't tell Drake that," Gudao smirked. The doctor chuckled as he got up and patted the male master on the shoulder before making his way past and towards the door. He looked back one last time at the trio and gave a small, fond smile as he watched Fou licking Mashu's cheek from her shoulder.
"There's going to be another basketball game after the training today. Rome versus Japan. You want to go cheer for one?" Gabrielle asked with a glint of excitement.
"Nero told me yesterday, Gabby. I think I'd like to see that."
"Seeing the lineup, I'm pretty sure it's going to be comedy hour," Gudao added happily.
Gabrielle rolled her eyes and chuckled. "Psh, of course it is. If Nero wasn't enough, the love rivals were placed together too!"
There was laughter as they talked about the much higher potential for entertainment than yesterday's game, making Roman's smile grow as Mashu briefly looked at him. She knew how secretly glad he was she was able to have these experiences, and it all started with a certain dark-haired master she had fallen for. He would often state in private how happy he was to watch her act her own age, help out around Chaldea, and make countless friends. She was just as thankful as she turned back to the two best friends who were suddenly bickering over cupcake toppings.
Roman left the room with a tearful smile he quickly rubbed away.
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Gudao coughed and looked to the embarrassed demi-servant. "It's alright, Mashu."
The shielder's shame was so palpable, she felt she was drowning. "I'm really sorry, Senpai."
"I chose to keep you company two days ago," Gudao stated before he sneezed into a tissue. "It's my fault. Don't worry."
"That's why we have two masters now," Gabrielle stated from her seat next to Gudao's bed. She looked in amusement at her best friend as Doctor Roman did his final checks, more for appearance than anything, and placed the stethoscope back into his pocket. The male master wore a plain white shirt with his boxers thankfully hidden beneath the blanket. Lying back down on his bed, he let out a sigh and put an arm over his forehead.
"You're bed ridden for the day, Gudao," Doctor Roman stated simply with a small smile. "You're going to have to let Gabrielle take command of the supply sortie this afternoon."
"Oh good lord..." Gabrielle smacked the male master on the arm, making him chuckle as Fou hopped onto the bed and curled up on the pillow next his head. It mirrored the exact same motion as it did for Mashu by licking his cheek, making the shielder smile. The female master kept her pouting face for barely a few seconds before she rolled her eyes and got up. Gudao groaned, "I was kidding."
"I know," She replied with a chipper voice before heading into his bathroom and turning on the faucet. The male master turned his attention back to Roman as he nodded towards Mashu, who was currently sitting at the edge of his bed on the opposing side.
"You'll be fine. I'll just get you medicine," He stated before giving him one last, small smile before walking towards the door.
Mashu gasped as a wet towel flew across the room and smacked loudly onto Gudao's face. He could hear Doctor Roman and Gabrielle laughing as she carefully peeled the slightly damp cloth off his flushed face. The male master groaned, but still smiled with amusement at his best friend. Mashu took the towel from his hands gingerly before folding it properly and placing it on his forehead with a warm smile.
It appears Gabrielle's methods of taking care of Gudao were just as overly friendly, and somewhat careless, as she thought they'd be. At the very least, she would be here this time to look after Gudao. Sure she was always keeping him protected as his guardian, but he was the one who guided them. While still uncertain of herself, Gudao had been the one always by her side and encouraging her, so she would happily do the same for him… perhaps as something more in the future.
After smiling warmly at Mashu and Gudao, Roman quietly let himself out to go retrieve the medicine as Gabrielle laughed. "God how I missed taking care of you when you were sick!"
"I have the best, best friend, I swear…" Gudao grumbled playfully as he gently smacked the female master's arm.
"Of course I am. Oh, and, you're welcome!" came her chipper response, making even Mashu giggle as Gudao rolled his eyes with a smirk. "Just get some rest, I got this later, and Mashu will be looking after you! I'll just get Waver to help Scathach and I."
"I'm hardly worried. You're a great master."
She had a genuine, wide grin at the compliment. "So, you two want breakfast?"
"That'd be great. The usual?"
"Anchovy omelette with ten pints of hard liquor for you, and then Mashu's regular one. You got it," Gabrielle stated jokingly before walking towards the door.
Fou's ears perked up before anyone else as she opened the door, followed quickly by Doctor Roman's surprised, untranslatable stammering from the hallway as two servant signatures walked towards his room. Upon feeling them, Mashu lost some of her smile due to their familiarity. Gabrielle's eyes widened as they came into view for her, making her and Gudao look at each other before staring at the door. Mashu sighed when the servants appeared in the opening doorway and sashayed in.
"Oh my…" Gabrielle stated with an amused expression before turning to Gudao, who was clearly more flushed than he was a few seconds ago.
Gudao was completely unprepared for the two love rivals walking into his room, together of all things, and hardly even glaring a challenge at the other. Mashu silently fumed as he stared at their chosen outfits, which were probably the very reason the doctor had lost his voice in the hallway; His voice was very much gone as well. Mashu merely glanced towards the two offenders and held back her own growing disappointment and sudden possessive instincts.
Kiyohime and Tamamo stood in the middle of his room, wearing what appeared to be Halloween grade nurse outfits. These would have probably been their attire for the holiday next week. They were form fitting to say the very least, with Tamamo's blue trimmed version almost exactly matching Kiyohime's green trimmed variation save for a few measurement differences. It made Mashu a touch envious of how forward they could be about their feelings. Both had their hands on their hips as they smiled softly towards their sick master.
"Goshujin-sama, we heard you were sick," Tamamo said with a small allure in her voice.
"We thought we'd help you get better, Master~!" Kiyohime added, no less potency in her own.
"I'm, uh… surprised… you two are getting along so well," Gudao stammered, making the shielder look towards him with a slightly irritated look. He looked back and sent an apologetic look towards Mashu who sighed. Gabrielle was enjoying the scene immensely, though sent a silent apology to poor Mashu.
"It's a truce," Tamamo shrugged. "For the sake of our dear Gudao, we'll both help you feel much better."
"But in the end you'll have to say which one of us helped most," Kiyohime giggled softly. "Me or the Fox skank."
Tamamo's eyes flared up. "Who're you calling a skank wearing that suggestive outfit, harlot!"
"You copied mine!"
"I bought mine first!"
"I found the store in that singularity and showed it to you willingly! Yours is the same!"
"Except for a few key areas," Tamamo shot back slyly as she crossed her arms just underneath some of her more powerful, suggestive weapons while raising an eyebrow. She smirked as Kiyohime turned red and pouted.
"Why you dirty, cheating slut!" Kiyohime spat at the troubling difference.
Tamamo looked much more injured at that comment than Mashu expected she'd be. "Take that back, Kiyo-hoe-me!"
Gabrielle laughed. Mashu sighed. Gudao now had a migraine too.