Blue eyes shot back and forth over the drawn formation once more before Gudao, in a black shirt and gym shorts, sighed in disappointment. "No, no, no…"
It was a well-known phenomenon that sudden bursts of inspiration and creative thought came to a person when they decided it was time to retire for the night. For Gudao, it was something that rarely happened since the creativity and arts were more of his best friend's thing. When he did get one, it was always a eureka moment for constructive and strategic ideas these days. So it was on the night before Chaldea's first celebrated holiday with servants that Gudao had a sudden burst of inspiration for combat tactics against Solomon and his potential forces.
Deciding it was better not to lose the idea through deep sleep, he was now currently slogging away at all the ideas that had suddenly come to visualization. He wasn't sure how long he had been working at this point, but he had to complete it or he wouldn't be able to sleep; The anxiety of forgetting a potentially risk-preventing plan would keep him up regardless of his state of fatigue. The number of strokes his pen made across the countless papers numbered in the thousands that night.
Regardless, he continued to draw up combinations involving some of the newly improved skills and abilities some servants sharpened. If a new servant were to appear for the planned summoning tomorrow, there would also be more flexibility to the plans that he could simply add at another time. For now, the plans focused on magic resistance and a stronger frontline deployment taking only what was currently within the capabilities of Chaldea's servants. With one last descriptive diagram of a new defensive formation, he was done for now.
Gudao stretched his arms over his head and groaned, feeling his muscles ache in fatigue. The new battle formations were finally finished at least so the master could run them by Gabrielle and the Lord caster to see if there were any serious weaknesses the enemy could exploit. But that was something that could wait for tomorrow. The master released a content sigh at finally being able to turn in for the night. Getting up from his chair, Gudao covered his mouth as a yawn took control. Feeling his eyes groan in anticipation for sleep, he looked back to the wall near his desk…
…and stared blankly at the monitor's clock that read 0658. Gudao blinked... and blinked again.
Silence invaded the room as the slow realization overtook his mind: He had stood up all night on his little project.
He had never done that before, not even when he was the lone master in the organization. Slowly he slid back onto his chair and felt his eyebrow twitch in despair. He let out a low and constant groan before slowly raising his hands to his face. Groaning into his palms, the master fell into silence as footsteps grew closer outside before ending as a familiar knock sounded through the door. Right on time, Mashu cheerily opened the door, letting Fou bounce in quickly and clamber onto the male master's shoulder.
"Happy Halloween, Senpai!" Mashu said as she gently placed their small refreshments onto his lone table.
"Fou!" The familiar cried happily before tilting its head at the still master. "…Kyuuu?"
Mashu looked towards Gudao and blinked. He still sat there with his hands to his face without saying a word. "Senpai?"
He groaned again. "Today is going to be miserable…"
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Fragment 20: Chaldea's First Holiday
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To say it was Chaldea's first holiday wasn't entirely accurate. Countless holidays had been celebrated by the staff since the creation of their organization, but never before was a holiday celebrated with so many servants. Da Vinci would recall many past events and how rather mundane they were, and she alone would be the only one to recount them as a servant. With all the early endeavors since the Fuyuki incident back in April, the entire organization was lucky enough to get break days for its staff. Even the servants had less free time in the first months due to their low numbers and the sudden rise of anomalies.
With so many allies now within the walls, community created events became a possibility again. There was a common agreement that Halloween should not be skipped, even if just for the young servants' sakes; The parents of said servants were very keen on letting them enjoy one of the livelier holidays. To the surprise of many, the collaborative effort was beyond expectations.
Gabrielle walked the hallways of Chaldea, humming to herself and taking happy note of the occasional decorations placed in various spots. Whether they were swiftly erected gravestones, a set of cobwebs over a doorway, or even an animatronic skeleton courtesy of Babbage's quick tinkering, the facility was significantly more interesting to stroll. Many of the decorations were placed up within the past week, right after the first community competition. To see a large number of servants and employees chipping in favor of the joyous event was an uplifting sight, and she hoped this trend would continue with even more pitching in next time.
The female master adjusted her black and orange dress, an oversized witch's hat perched on her head and a broom stick slung over one shoulder. White and orange striped stockings completed her festive look while her black boots jingled with the tiny bells on their heels as she strolled forward. A pair of robots passed while looking her over, beeping friendly greetings as she waved at them. She waved towards Arash, dressed as a snake charmer, while he passed by, enjoying the early festivities himself.
She also nodded towards Sasaki who stood guard near the vault door not wearing a costume. "Good morning, master."
"Happy Halloween, Sasaki," she greeted with a tiny, curious smile. "No costume?"
"Later this evening. Okita and Nobunaga won't let me hear the end of it otherwise."
A group employees also passed in very basic costumes so the Clothing Department would be spared further work; There were plenty of rumors that some servants had ordered or acquired exceptionally extravagant costumes. Thanks to the volunteer help from her close friends, Naomi wasn't drowning in her work. It would be a shame if she was forced to revert to her completely serious, no-nonsense work schedule to finish the orders. Her department was very worried that she might have turn back to her former, rigid disposition in a heartbeat to ensure the rest of the facility was happy by the deadline…
...and speaking of happy, Gabrielle practically snorted. "Oh dear lord, Gudao. Weren't you a zombie for Halloween last year at the tower?"
Gudao glared as best as he could back at his best friend while being Mashu kept him up by the shoulders. The demi-servant was smiling at Gabrielle while giving Gudao occasional, sympathetic glances. Fou happily followed on the ground as the male master sighed, "I didn't get any sleep."
"Well, clearly," She rolled her eyes playfully before she walked over. Fou happily clambered up the female master and sat on her shoulder. "Going to breakfast?"
"I told Senpai he should be sleeping instead," Mashu started before Gudao gently shook his head.
"I want to be present to see the servants enjoying the holiday," The male master declared in a tired voice. "I'll be fine after breakfast... I just need to get rid of this headache."
"You'll likely just be more tired," Mashu added, though before continuing to scold him lightly, she noticed a mischievous glint in Gabrielle's eyes.
"Oh, you'll be fine alright," Gabrielle started with a small smirk, making Mashu worried.
"I-I think we should just get Senpai back to bed," The demi-servant started.
"Fou!"
"As I said, I just need breakfast, Mashu. I'll be alright."
Gabrielle's smirk widened. "I think it's a great opportunity to introduce you to my other best friend: coffee."
Gudao paled. "Wait- No. No I am no-"
She was particularly pushy and smiley this morning. "You've never tried it! No matter how many times I tried replacing your drinks with it! Just for today!"
"Gabby, no. I will no-"
"Do it for the servants?" she asked with a teasing smile, making Mashu giggle.
His headache visibly grew. She'd been trying to get him onto her particular style of coffee for years since she created it herself. But right now, he definitely did not have the strength to argue in the stubborn fashion he usually did with her. Rubbing his head with his free hand, Gudao quickly decided it was in his best interest to cave just once. "Fine. But just this once."
Gabrielle was beaming.
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"I-I can't wear this!" Mashu stuttered as she held up the costume, a blush overtaking her face completely. Astolfo had dragged her off to a small, unoccupied room while Gudao struggled to drink the bitter beverage Gabrielle got for him. At least he was partially awake now. "This is barely clothing!"
"But you needed a costume," Astolfo stated as he scratched his cheek with a clawed hand. The rider was currently wearing a designed cat suit, except most of his forearms and elbows were exposed much like his midriff. The cat suit also stopped around half way down his thighs, with tan paws covering his hands and feet. Over exaggerated whiskers and ears wiggles on his head, but that was due to the rider's typical inability to fidget when overexcited.
The rider currently had his arms akimbo with a happy smile on his face as Mashu continued to stare at the pieces of purple, furry cloth attached by durable string. Revealing was an understatement for the outfit in question, and it was better to call it lingerie than anything else. "I can't. I-I'll just wear my uniform for the day-"
"Take the costume and consider it! Please?"
Mashu swallowed. "I'll just go hide it in my room…" She stated as she looked at the accompanying accessories. 'This tail is huge…'
"At least wear the tail and ears!" Astolfo cried as Mashu began walking down the hallway, followed by a bouncing servant that drew significantly more attention than the poor girl wanted at that moment. If anything, she was about to wear the accessories just to prevent further embarrassment from employees who glanced at the suggestive costume in her hands.
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"Trick or Treat!"
"Awww~ You girls are just so adorable!" Marie practically melted. The French queen resembled a mermaid, complete with a loose, blue fin that still allowed her to walk normally. Her hair was completely loose with a starfish headband keeping it back, the length flowing down and covering the back of her white bikini top.
The four white haired servants before her wore a similar costume theme to show unity in their decision. The fluffy animal cohesion, coupled with their usual antics, would have caused more heart palpitation incidents for the women than if the supplied elixir stock to prevent Diarmuid's curse ran short; Some would argue some particularly eager women would forget to drink the dose on purpose. As the four girls happily looked up in their animal costumes, they held out their pumpkin buckets so Marie could give them two candies each.
"Thank you!" Jack said as she quickly checked her hood to make sure the over-sized black bear ears didn't fall off again. She quickly followed after a skipping Nursery Rhyme in a purple and pink striped cat outfit as she made her way down the hallway towards the library. Kuro, wearing a white wolf outfit, also gave a quick thanks before following after.
"Thanks, Aunt Marie!" Illya cried out as she too turned and ran with Ruby trying desperately to keep the flailing lion tail from scraping against the ground more than needed. "Hey, wait for me!"
Marie giggled at the disappearing girls with a hand to her mouth. She placed the small dish of candy back on the stool near the entrance of her salon. They were likely going to be the only trick or treaters this day, seeing as they were some of the only real children in Chaldea save for a currently child-sized King of Heroes; Where that archer was remained a mystery that she decided not to ponder.
While there was one other person who would fit the age requirement besides Elizabeth, she wasn't too sure if they would participate in Chaldea's first celebrated holiday. Adults probably wouldn't be trick or treating for any reason; Hopefully Nobunaga wasn't keen on performing the trick part. Older individuals were more than welcome to dress up though, as she happily did along with the three servants approaching her casually.
Atalanta wore a larger version of the outfit Jack wore except in the color brown. The over-sized bear ears on her hood twitched on occasion, signifying that she had indeed removed their fluffy stuffing so her own ears could fit within. She was happily talking with Irisviel, who had two tilted horns attached to the sides of her head. Long, silk purple gloves covered most of her arms, with a matching pair of stockings visible just underneath the bottom of a fluffy purple robe, making her look like a lamb.
Based on the two female servants, it was not hard to guess the wrapped mummy behind the pair was obviously Kiritsugu. He didn't look too comfortable in the costume choice Irisviel likely chose for him for some reason. The French Queen wondered what Ozymandias might think of that costume, but she would likely here of it later. With a wave, she met the smiling parents with a warm smile.
"Your little girls went that way," Marie chimed happily, pointing down the hallway with both hands and a chipper smile.
Atalanta chuckled. "Why thank you, miss mermaid."
"That's Queen of the Mermaids, merci beaucoup~!" Marie winked with a giggle.
"Shall we make that your real title from now on, Marie?" Irisviel teased as Atalanta laughed. The archer quickly began walking towards the library to ensure the girls weren't being too loud.
"Just be careful of Blackbeard," Kiritsugu warned through the bandaging covering most of his mouth. It really did look a bit uncomfortable. "You appear like perfect fuel for him dressed like a pirate's fantasy."
Marie blinked and blushed lightly. "You raise a good point. I might have to get a throw over just in ca-"
She was interrupted by a white throw over sweater casually landing on the stool next to her, covering the small dish with remaining candies. The queen giggled and looked behind her to see the salon uniform clad Mozart passing by with a simple wave. "Thanks, Amadeus!"
"Three notes ahead of you, my Queen."
"Well, off to collect our little children," Irisviel declared with a small wave to her friend. "See you at lunch?"
She nodded happily in response. "Of course!"
"Let's go, dear," The caster directed as she took her husband's hand and led him down the hallway. Further down, Atalanta turned and disappeared into the library.
Irisviel happily hummed to herself as the pair walked in relative silence. Kiritsugu's eyes glanced over her robe once more. It didn't really match the rest of her outfit, even if it did make her look like a lamb, and he was wondering why the material clashe- His wife casually caught his stare and gave him a small smirk. After checking for any other potential witnesses, she undid the belt on her robe with one hand, she gently revealed some of her upper body so only he could see. His eyes widened at the revelation before she quickly hid the revealing outfit underneath.
"The girls may not be the only ones getting treats today if you play your cards right, dear," Irisviel whispered in a sultry tone as she casually returned to humming once more. Secretly, she thought about unwrapping her own little present later.
He still wasn't sure when she had learned to be so alluring, but he stopped trying to figure it out since his fourth week in Chaldea.
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Arturia looked herself over in her mirror once more, still partially confused about the costume Emiya and Gudao had suggested at dinner two weeks ago. "Is this really how people saw King Arthur?"
"...Sort of," Emiya admitted as he leaned against the wall of her room. A wooden bow was slung onto the back of his green tunic and black leggings. His arms were crossed as he looked at the small woman in amusement. "Many definitely did watch a King Arthur like this though."
"How curious," Arturia mused as she turned back to him and blinked before looking herself in the mirror again. Jeanne sat in one of the chairs, hands folded in her lap as she watched Arturia. At Marie's suggestion, the ruler wore a black and white maid outfit but with a more conservative skirt and leggings. Gripped lightly in her hands was a comically enlarged feather duster they had found during one supply sortie in the past week.
"You and Gudao said this was from a movie?" Jeanne inquired as she looked her friend's uniform over.
"If we find a copy I can show it to both of you sometime," Emiya admitted. "Though I'm a little... uncertain how you'd feel about watching this particular portrayal of yourself."
"I guess I'm already playing myself though," Arturia stated as she turned herself around and adjusted part of her costume. "Does this count as a Halloween costume if I'm still myself?"
"You may have been King Arthur, but you have always acted as King Arthur," He stated, earning a small, half-hearted glare from the young King.
"He's not wrong, Arturia," Jeanne giggled as she emphasized her real name.
"I still think it's strange to be in costume as myself though."
Emiya blinked and sighed before asking a peculiar question in response. "Have you seen Nero yet?"
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"Sheesh, I've never met a person so clumsy before!"
"I said sorry…" Janice replied with a flat voice.
"It's okay, I'm just giving you a hard time! It's not like I expected you to be perfectly regal like me!" Elizabeth stated as she skipped along the hallway next to her current companion.
The lancer wore an over-sized witch's hat coupled with a black, orange, and purple dress with excessive amounts of frills. Her costume appeared like a rather blunt rendition of a Halloween witch, though she had added extras like finger nail extensions and a devil's trident. The young employee next to her adjusted her glasses before lowering her hand to grasp her own ghost pail with both hands. Her costume was hastily thrown together and minmalistic, but the lab coat and safety goggles on her head made her look like a scientist; It was an easy look anyhow.
Elizabeth had another costume idea, but Vlad had stated this one was much better on account the other was more akin to an armored bikini than anything.
This pair was unusual since no formal conversation was made between the pair until the day before. Elizabeth, after just completed another sing-off with Nero, had been wandering around Chaldea trying to see who would be interested in trick or treating with her. She was about to ask the large friend group of Chaldea's youngest servants but had literally bumped into the young prodigy of Paracelsus instead. After picking themselves up, and the large stack of scattered alchemical books, Elizabeth had started a small conversation and found out the employee had planned on spending Halloween alone in her room studying elixirs.
As if Elizabeth would have allowed that of her newfound Trick or Treat partner.
Janice who was usually reserved but a good listener merely let Elizabeth talk her ear off in the usual one-sided conversation. While it was mostly reminiscent of a tone taken by two narcissistic royal figures, the young prodigy could read the undertones and meaning, finding the lancer next to her rather interesting. It wasn't that she was purposefully talking herself up while putting others down, but she simply felt superior without directing it to anyone in particular. As far as she could tell, it was just Elizabeth talking, but it did develop inquiries for the employee.
"I don't mean to interrupt, but why did you choose me?" Janice spoke up with a firm voice when Elizabeth paused between subjects. "Because I'm the only other young person in Chaldea? Did you just need someone who would listen to you as you went about the holiday?"
Elizabeth blinked. "How rude. It's not nice to interrupt royalty, but it's okay!"
Janice was about to roll her eyes when the lancer continued. "And I chose you because no one should spend this holiday alone!"
"Was spending my time studying really that ba-"
"Yes," Elizabeth answered a little too quickly. "It's not right on this social holiday! One must spend it among the masses, enjoying themselves! Showing you have more fun than them!"
Janice, even though sensing something was strange and amiss, decided to drop the subject and nodded. Elizabeth was partially relieved, though found the young employee much more interesting than she initially thought. In truth, Elizabeth was doing it more out of her anxiety for having to go about the event by herself. While she could usually find company among Nero and a few others, they all had plans for the day which left her relatively alone. That unnerved her a bit due to her past and the theme of the holiday.
However, she wasn't lying about her spoken reason either. Halloween, while being celebrated and called differently in the past, had developed into an interesting holiday that many could enjoy together. The idea of being stuck in her small room alone and practicing her singing, was not a very appealing thought for the servant. Hearing about someone else with the same potential problem didn't ring well for her either.
The servant would blame Vlad and Medea further for their moral coaching and guidance. She had never actually had someone to guide her in the past life, acknowledging now that many of her actions were by all means as gruesome and horrific as history noted. She had simply thought she had done nothing wrong since no one properly taught her, but even with a history of such actions, the coaching of the two servants was slowly having its affects. What better teachers to help guide the young Elizabeth, before her historic rise in terror, than two servants who also were familiar with terrible acts? Maybe that was the reason she allowed them to do so.
It certainly did give her hopes of a proper chance to make amends after how terribly it went in the Moon Cell.
Before the servant could strike up another new conversation, a toga wearing empress turned the corner ahead and spotted the pair. She was followed closely behind by a toga wearing Altera, who gave a tiny wave to the approaching pair. Grinning widely, Nero placed her hands akimbo and puffed her chest out. "What a nice dress you have there, Elizabeth! Fitting for an idol to challenge another on Halloween!"
"Thanks!" Elizabeth beamed before falling into renewed curiosity with Janice, who was well aware of who the servant in front of them was. "Um… Nero, what are you dressed up as?"
Nero beamed brightly while adjusting her wreath. "Isn't is obvious? I'm a great Roman Emperor!"
A confused silence followed as the unlikely pair looked at each other slowly before returning their gaze forward. Janice cleared her throat. "…You're supposed to dress as something you're not for Hallowe-"
"Umu~ I am! I am not an Empress today, but an Emperor!" Behind her and Altera, a small group of emperors dressed as gladiators turned the corner and spotted their group mate.
Elizabeth blinked. "Nero, you dense... That's not how that wor-!"
"Not a bad idea, no? A clever play for one as clever as myself! And if you are to complain about anyone being themselves, complain about the young servants who are still too cute for Hallowee-"
With a mutual groan with Janice, Elizabeth shook her head. "You know what, never mind, Nero... Just, never mind."
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Vlad, Medea, and Naomi sat within their seats in the festive Salon de Marie. Since this morning, it had become filled with different servants with plenty in costumes. The trio decided to go as a themed group as well, though it was a rather simple and refined design. Appearing as teachers didn't take much effort to fashion amid their hard work adjusting acquired costumes for the others.
However, they pulled it off with extra unintentional allure.
From their form black pencil skirts skirts and leggings to their curve-hugging formal shirts, Naomi and Medea were looking stunning. Naomi wore her crocheted rose on a pocket over her heart instead of her hair, which was hung loose like Medea's. Vlad simply opted for a black suit. The trio wore false glasses to complete their teacher looks as they sat with several acquired lesson books from the library for added effect. Knitting needles worked furiously in their hands as usual while Naomi glanced around the room.
Dantes decided to skip on the costume in favor of one of his usual suits, and was currently relaxing on a couch while talking with Nightingale. She wore a modern doctor's scrubs, complete with stethoscope and clip board. On the floor, further down the row of couches, Iskandar wore fake armor that resembled a Greek Hoplite whereas Waver sat next to him in Greek scholar robes. Tyler was in his usual work uniform except for an added hood that resembled an iconic look from a popular assassin-style game series. Next to him sat Kintoki wearing nothing but Muay Thai shorts while the group played poker.
Gabrielle was currently following Mashu, who wore a peculiar fluffy tail and ears. They shadowed an exhausted Gudao who had constantly insisted that he was allowed to perform the planned summons today before being forced to bed by his closest friends. They had reluctantly given in, and Naomi assumed that's where the trio were currently headed followed by a fluffy Fou with an over-sized bat cookie in its mouth. Besides the occasional eye-catching curiosity, she could even hear some conversations from the louder servants on occasion.
"Why do I need to pretend to be someone lower? I do not need to entertain others. With but a snap of my fingers I used to be able to entertain at will through my personal entertainers," Ozymandias proclaimed from the bar in a lavish, white suit with golden undershirt. Next to him at the bar sat Beowulf in a rather convincing, plaid lumberjack outfit. He merely nodded as the proud rider continued, "But it is wonderful to see so many subjects enjoying this day. Isn't that right, dear sister?"
Having raised the last part of the sentence noticeably louder to get her attention from within the kitchen, he was immediately met with slightly audible chastisement and insults. He only chuckled and sipped from his glass of wine, "Ah, my dear sister is quite the lively one."
Another conversation nearby from a table filled with pirates caught her next eavesdropping attention.
"Are you seriously a ninja?" Drake asked in disbelief as she stared at Blackbeard, whose eyes were only visible amid his sea of black clothes. Shurikens plastered all over his waist belt made it dead obvious. In contrast, the female rider was dressed in a full suit much like Anne and Mary were next to her. All three sported matching fedoras with classy white accents. Fake cigars and a mimicked accent further confirmed their mafia-styled choice.
Blackbeard only shrugged. "Is there something wrong with that?"
Anne was in a laughing fit. She stared at Blackbeard standing by their table proudly as he lowered his mask. Mary looked partially uninterested as she sipped on her smoothie but Anne chuckled, "You going trick or treating in that too?"
"Depends," He shrugged before passing a smirk towards Drake. "Want a treat yourselves, ladies?"
Drake narrowed her eyes. "I thought you learned hitting on me wa-"
Blackbeard raised his hands defensively. "I actually mean a treat this time... If you follow me, I'll show you."
The pirates looked to each other in doubt before turning back to the male pirate. He sighed, "I'm serious. It has to do with that urge to sail you three always complain about. I found a fix for my own craving I think you might find fun."
Silence surrounded their table as the three considered the proposal. A collective nod confirmed their decision before they turned to warily stare at Blackbeard. "Alright... But if it's anything sexual we're locking you in a room with Spartacus."
He grinned. "Deal. Just follow me to the game room."
A subdued giggle to the employee's side snapped her away from her quiet observations. "Oh my, eavesdropping on students, Miss Stolarz? How rude."
Naomi's head snapped back to look at the teasing smirk on Medea's face as Vlad tried to hide his chuckle. "I need to make sure the students are behaving, Principal Medea."
"But I thought you liked your students naughty," Medea joked with a small raise of her eyebrows.
Naomi raised a hand to her mouth in feigned disgust. "How scandalous. I wound never!"
"Roleplaying, hmm? You two are possibly enjoying this too much," Vlad chimed in with a small smirk as his female companions giggl-
"I have come to suck your blood!" Vlad's smirk dropped as he looked up and towards the sudden voice. The two noticed his sudden lack of enthusiasm, replaced with curiosity and slight irritation.
They followed his gaze to stare at Doctor Roman wearing the classic count costume, complete with an unpractical cape. It was accented with slicked back, dyed black hair, fake fangs, and an over-sized cape to add authenticity to the generic look. He was currently making the sterotypical pose of hiding behind his cape while staring at Leonardo, who was wearing a red plaid shirt and blue jeans. Tan work boots, an orange reflector vest, and a yellow hard hat instantly defined her costume as a modern construction worker.
"Come to suck? So you're just being you then," Da Vinci added with a small smirk, causing Roman to roll his eyes and groan. The inventor chuckled, "You walked into that one, genius."
"Come on, Da Vinci... I can never catch a break with you."
The amusement in Vlad's eyes returned to the relief of the two women near him.
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"Can we do a summons, master?" Nursery Rhyme asked with glinting puppy dog eyes, mirrored by the three girls next to her. Gabrielle was seconds away from falling to the ground in violent convulsions.
'How the hell can I say no to these cuties!?' She managed to hold herself together. She looked towards a now sleepy Gudao, the coffee wearing off, who smiled and nodded. She beamed at the girls. "Of course you can! We were only going to do two, but we'll make it four so you each get a chance. Our treat for each of you!"
"Yay!" They simultaneously cheered as Gabrielle got up and made her way towards the door. She would get six more quartz from the vault so the girls can have their fun. Gudao, tired but moving as lively as ever, made his way to the pedestals to help Tesla load them with the necessary materials. The servant wore his usual formal attire instead of a costume, though the other heroic spirit in the room besides Mashu was a different story.
Babbage stood near the console next to the shielder, his metallic form covered in flowing white cloth. A small pole attached to the back of his helm raised a golden halo above his head, but the item was in the shape of a gear that emitted a soft light. Instead of assorted tools, he also held a fake book in his hands with the words "Rule of the Machine Spirit" written across a temporary cover. The illuminated steam that he occasionally vented bolstered his makeshift ethereal presence.
The robots who worshipped him around Chaldea as a god unintentionally presented a pretty decent idea for a costume. Thus, there was no doubt that the Omnissiah had to grace Chaldea for only a day. At least he was taking Da Vinci's place so she may relax for once, but it gave him some respite as well. The summoning room made sure that he wasn't constantly being followed by a host of worshipping robots who revered his outfit. In hindsight, it should have been obvious the costume would make things worse.
"We're ready for the first one girls. Who wants to fire it up first?" Gudao stated, as lively as he could, while he made his way back to the console with Tesla.
The girls quickly discussed among themselves before Jack stepped forward with a small smile. "I will!"
"Alright, Jackie, come here," Gudao stated as he pressed a few button to make the summoning lever appear. The bear-dressed servant stood up to the console and reached up for the lever, gripping it lightly. While Mashu placed Fou on the ground so it could run over to the other girls, Jack looked up at Gudao for a final confirmation. He smiled, "Go right ahead."
With a sparkling grin, Jack threw the lever and the summoning machine activated. The light show went through its paces as is always did, even more efficiently and less blinding than ever thanks to some maintenance a few days ago. As the orbs turned into a rainbow color, making everyone in the room gasp, they began their spin as the light filled the room much to Gudao's excitement; The rainbow indicator of summoning a new servant was better than coffee! Too bad Gabrielle was getting quartz and would miss the immediate arrival.
But who would be arriving on Halloween?
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"I am so sorry for judging you," Drake said as her fingers raced across the keyboard. "It's rare I will ever say that, so don't let it get to your head, ya' hear?"
"Aye, aye, Vice Admiral," Blackbeard joked as his own fingers raced across his keyboard. Next to them, Mary and Anne were also frantically moving their hands as they all looked with enthusiasm at their respective screens.
He wasn't sure it was going to work, but Blackbeard was glad he found some playmates for this unique game. It wasn't too popular, but Tyler had brought an illegal, hacked copy from his old gaming companions. Since the game was still in testing when it was cracked, it had its flaws. The idea of a multiplayer system that meant fighting anyone in the world was possible was a curious concept.
Due to the internet not actually existing, the alpha game's code had to be modified and converted so it worked on a network system instead. Regardless of how the Engineering Division did it, he was just glad he found a game at least partially leaning towards his fellow pirates' interests. Sure Black Flag was a game much more appropriate for pirates to play, but the allure of World of Warships certainly had its charm for the quartet; The former also wasn't multiplayer.
He wasn't entirely sure they would like the more modern naval wargame, but Drake had immediately taken interest in the sheer power of the modern battleships. Anne and Mary found carriers to be fun twists on naval combat. He was shaken from his thoughts when a bot controlled enemy warship detonated in the distance on Blackbeard's screen as Drake hollered in excitement at landing a critical strike.
"And the Spanish Armada slowly sinks again!"
"Uhuhu, Spain isn't in this game. Apparently they didn't participate in World War II."
"Pssh, I sunk something, that's what counts!" Drake said with a content grin. "Too bad we can't play this anywhere besides here."
Blackbeard placed a hand to his chin in thought as he sailed his cruiser forward between two islands. "Well there are laptops... If we get powerful ones they should be able to run on this network or something. Let's hope for a future modern supply sortie?"
"So we could play this in our rooms?" Anne asked hopefully. Mary cheered next to her as she sunk an enemy battleship with torpedo planes.
"I think so. We'll have to ask the technicians," Blackbeard stated before launching torpedoes from his cruiser. "But until then, this should be fine."
A sudden burst of prana in one of the hallways drew their attention for a split second. They stared in the direction of the burst, anticipating the alarm system going off but no sound occurring. Had it been a much more serious incident, the klaxons would certainly be blaring, so the pirates ignored the strange occurrence and turned back to their game sessio- The lack of awareness was enough for Drake to take a torpedo to the rudder and nearly sink.
"Dammit! Which one of you filthy bilge rats did that!?" She yelled at the screen as she eyed a retreating destroyer nearby.
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"Stand down, Gawain!" Lancelot attempted to placate as calmly as he could through grit teeth.
Arondight was currently locked with a blue and silver, beautiful blade. The knight had chosen a full, black suit with a white collared undershirt for his costume, a pair of sunglasses discarded on the ground nearby. To the side of the main hallway watching the two stood Siegfried. They dressed similarly as the pair agreed on a combined costume of sorts. The King of Knights suggested that Lancelot should enjoy the day as well, and so he did his best to until this encounter.
Currently locking blades with Lancelot was a silver armored knight, with blue and black under garments visible beneath the few gaps in his exterior plating. The tall, blonde man's green eyes pierced into Lancelot's own; Both held firm. Everything from his posture to his grit teeth stated against the chivalric standard the silver-clad servant held himself to, but for the one man in front of him he let it all vanish.
On his deathbed he had thought he had accepted his lack of virtue was at fault, but seeing him again with a content smile on his face proved otherwise. It seems his virtue was still tainted by wrath, but to his internal chagrin, he accepted it at this moment. Upon seeing him again, there was no way Gawain could ever forgive the knight for what he had done against their mutual king. His control had shattered, and he allowed his feelings to roar with the crimes against his family in mind.
Siegfried, a materialized Balmung in hand and ready, narrowed his eyes. "Lancelot-"
"It's alright, Siegfried. I can handle this."
Gawain scoffed as he glared sharp daggers at his former friend. "All that infamy finally getting to your head?"
Lancelot narrowed his eyes. "I'm not getting my comrades involved."
"You didn't seem to have a problem with that notion when you slew my family," Gawain roared back. The angered knight poured prana into Excalibur Galantine to push Lancelot back. He swung wildly yet with the precise grace he was known for with his blade. The weapon came down once more against Arondight with a loud clash of steel.
"I didn't want to do that to them! Not to Gaheris, and certainly not Gareth! I didn't have a choice!"
"Everyone has a choice! And you chose wrong!" Gawain swiftly pulled his sword back and sliced towards Lancelot, the dark knight simply dodging backwards twice as a follow up strike came swiftly for his neck.
Siegfried only watched on, fully intent on intervening should a fatal strike come down from either of them; He gave his word not to intervene on the knight's quarrel, but he wasn't about to let a vicious strike land and upset the masters. Judging by Lancelot's purposefully defensive stance, it was very likely the dragon slayer would have to knock the new arrival's blade out of his hand since he was definitely going to remain the only aggressor. That was not going to be an easy task against a Knight of the Round Table.
Gawain stopped his assault and glared at Lancelot. The defending knight grunted, "You've been here barely an hour and already you're going against our masters' wo-"
He roared. "Don't you chastise me for not following orders!"
"Sir Gawain! Cease your actions immediately!" The blonde haired man's eyes widened and felt his posture straighten instinctively at the familiar voice. Turning around slowly, his vision was met with several servants and Gabrielle. The one who caught his attention though was the small blonde at the front, Excalibur clearly on display. There was no doubt about it; His king was before him once more.
He was certainly confused as to why his king was currently wearing what appeared to be golden chainmail with a white cover running down the torso and legs. A golden sun emblem was placed at the center front, with a golden crown and chainmail neck guard resting on the head. Even though the choice of clothing was very different, he recognized his king instantly and immediately took a knee. He would inquire further on what Halloween was later.
"King Arthur, my liege," Gawain stated with closed eyes. As his king approached, Gawain felt his mind fill with inquiries. Had he and Lancelot been here the entire time together? They had yet to directly interact, yet the possibility they were on cordial terms again was a confusing and frustrating thought.
Yes, King Arthur had been clear that he had forgiven Lancelot, but Gawain found it difficult to do so even after his personal blame finally shifted in his dying moments. Maybe he could never understand his king as well as he always hoped. He was always simply inspired by his constant decisions above and beyond what any man could ever hope to achieve. Daring to open his eyes when the approach stopped, he looked up at his king and met the firm yet stoic look he was all too familiar with.
"You may stand, my knight."
"Yes, my liege." There was no hesitation in his actions and words.
Upon standing up straight and looking down towards his king, he swallowed nervously when he was met with a shaking head of disapproval. "I knew this might happen one of these days..."
Gawain remained silent, acknowledging the slow approach of Lancelot before he stopped beside him. His king looked towards him and nodded, though Gawain didn't turn to see the response.
"My apologies for troubling you, your majesty... and for troubling Chaldea on its holiday, master."
"It's alright, Lancelot," Gabrielle replied with a slight shrug and a small smile. "I don't see any blood or severed limbs, so Gudao should be fine with a warning reminder."
"I will ensure it won't happen again."
"I think it best you two avoid each other as much as possible, for now," Arturia proclaimed while returning her stare to Gawain. "We all have to work together again, for the sake of humanity."
"Yes, my liege," Gawain nodded, still internally harboring anger at the man beside him. "I will not disappoint you or the masters."
"Please see to it," Arturia nodded before facing Lancelot and doing the same. With a nod back, the dark-haired knight turned around and began walking down the hallway. Siegfried joined his companion when he came close enough.
Gawain met the eyes of his king once more and felt his eyes widen when he saw a small smile. The once emotionless and perfect king was directing a smile towards him, and it was stunning. "It's good to see you again, Gawain. I look forward to fighting side by side with you once more."
Knocking himself out of his surprise, the knight closed his eyes and bowed with a hand over his heart. "As do I, my king. I will do everything in my power to serve honorably."
"No doubt you will, if what everything Arturia has told us is true regarding your awesome exploits," Gabrielle complimented as she walked over to the two servants.
Gawain raised an eyebrow and a look of confusion crossed his face. "...Arturia?"
The small blonde smiled at him and chuckled. That was now two expressions in a minute he had never seen before. "We have a lot to discuss, my knight."
Gabrielle's eyes shifted down the hallway immediately, drawing both Arturia's and Gawain's attention to her. Even the few servants behind the pair seemed to stiffen slightly as Gawain turned his head to see what the commotion was about. Further down the hallway, Siegfried and Lancelot had stopped and were staring at a girl who looked remarkably like his king.
Her arms were crossed and there was a frown clear on her face as she leaned against the nearby hallway corner, a lone robot hovering past. The servant wore a jet black leather jacket and pants with silver accents on the buckles and collar. The jacket was unzipped, revealing her torso save for a white tube top that covered her breasts. The female was currently glaring daggers past all of them and eyeing him with scrutiny.
Her gaze then turned slightly more narrow when it locked eyes with Arturia, the silent conflict waging for what felt like minutes.
Gawain had the sneaking suspicion he knew who that was as she pushed off the wall and disappeared around a corner without a word. He felt a sigh escape the lips of his king as he turned towards his liege. Gabrielle shook her head gently and rubbed her forehead with one hand while a familiar servant approached from behind. Gawain vaguely remembered trading some choice words with Emiya in another war, currently dressed as a medieval archer, but had no reason to lash out at the white haired ally this time.
"Are you alright, Saber?" He watched curiously as the man gently placed his hand on his king's shoulder. His defensive instincts nearly kicking in before Arturia looked up to the offending man and gave a faint smile.
"It's alright, Shirou," She practically whispered, though Gawain did hear. Was she very familiar with this servant?
Gabrielle let out a sigh and shook her head once more as she glanced at the three knights still visible in the hallway. She didn't like what she was going to have to confirm to Gudao after his nap. 'Chaldea just got a lot more gunpowder...'
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Gabrielle's worry for the day, barely a few hours after the incident, evaporated upon seeing the wall posted menu only two hours before dinner.
"Ohhhh Yes~! Pumpkin Spice Latte is on the menu!" She exclaimed in pure happiness, making those around her look at her in confusion. "I'll have my October fix cured!"
"Pump… kin… spice… latte?" Frankenstein asked curiously as she turned to Anton. The couple's costumes consisted of two, torso covering slices of bread over their usual outfits, complete with fake peanut butter on one and jelly spread on the other. The slices weren't movement hindering and sent a very clear message.
"It's a very popular type of autumn coffee," Anton explained to her as she nodded slowly in understanding. "Would you like to try one?"
Her smile grew curious before she nodded happily. "Okay…"
Gabrielle skipped into the salon and headed straight for the bar. The female master was eager to ask Mata Hari, currently wearing a suggestive, medieval bar tavern outfit, whether it was possible to get one earlier than dinner. She and Sanson took turns manning the bar, with both of them operating it should the number of patrons increase.
The female master passed by the Irish lancers and saber who were currently playing a round of beer pong on a foldable table so they wouldn't accidentally mess up any of Marie's furniture. The group was all dressed as firemen, though the jackets were nowhere in sight and the undershirts varied from form fitting white to none at all. Scathach stood nearby as a ref, wearing a full fire chief uniform without any hint of suggestive intent as contrast to her comrades.
Diarmuid tossed a ball from behind his back and scored a direct hit into one of the cups in the stack. It wouldn't be a challenge to the heroic spirits if the cups were stationary, so they placed the formation on top of disc shaped, robotic vacuums called Roombas that they borrowed from storage. The moving targets certainly made the game more fun and interesting, causing some employees and servants to come over and watch the small show. George, eschewing a costume for a simple black suit, was happily taking pictures of the game and almost everything else.
On a table near the center of the room, a pumpkin speed-carving contest was currently underway with Mordred and Jekyll currently winning. The two wore no costume costume, though the assassin's clothes were partially stained. That was the fault of his friend's over-eager and absurdly vicious carving technique as she made quick work of a pumpkin face. He held the top of the pumpkin and candle, very much content not to get anywhere near the overly enthusiastic saber as she wreaked havoc on the poor, former plant.
To her credit though, the otherwise messy technique was creating one hell of a design on the front that appeared to be a knight riding off into the sunset; To Jekyll's credit, he had precisely carved some guidelines for her to follow.
Kiyohime was also in the contest, eager once more to show her true affection to her dear master as she carved an intricate design of hearts into her own pumpkin. To the cringe of some of the spectators, she had also begun the initial design of what appeared to be a depiction of her and the male master in a very romantic embrace; It was likely only to get more detailed if her hearts were any indication, and if time even allowed.
Thankfully an armada of robots was standing by to quickly clean up the salon in preparation for the pumpkin themed dinner later. By the schedule posted on the wall outside for the day, there was also going to be another round of trick or treating for the girls that would take place after desert. It would be followed shortly after by a tiny skit created by Shakespeare in the auditorium. To the playwright's disappointment, Gudao and Gabrielle had made triple checks on the script to ensure he didn't put anything too over the top or borderline controversial into his work.
Hans had agreed to let Shakespeare take Halloween on the condition he would be the one to make the Chaldea's first play.
'So much holiday spirit! Wasn't expecting this much.' Gabrielle thought blissfully as she happily sipped from a cup of her desired latte. She quickly sat down at a table with Boudica who was taking a small break from the kitchen. She wore a simple red dress and apron since she was working with Tamamo all day. The pair forced Emiya to take the day as vacation to spend time with his friends. The master giggled, "Feet aching yet?"
"Heroic spirit benefits," Boudica responded happily as she sipped from her own fruit punch. "Is Gudao still sleeping?"
"Mashu and I should be waking him up soon. Can't have him screwing up his sleep schedule," She replied with a giggle. "Would have been his fault anyway."
"And you wouldn't have let him hear the end of it."
"Damn right I wouldn't have."
Boudica giggled as some pompous laughter at the table next to them drew their attention. Medusa, wearing a black and white maid outfit, was playing scrabble with her two sisters who wore lilac off shoulder dresses. As usual, their clothes were frilly and matching, as per their usual taste, and had refused to dress up; They forced Medua to in their stead. After laughing, they simultaneously sipped their tea, acting like a mirror for themselves, before smirking towards their younger sister. Casually they placed their cups back down onto their saucers.
"Your move, Medusa," Euryale declared while folding her hands on the table in front of her.
"Should you lose, you have to serve us hand and foot for all of tomorrow so Asterios may have a break," Stheno chimed in.
At the mention of his name, the large berserker appeared behind the two in a shower of golden dust, having been in spirit form so a robot could pass behind him. The tall, tan skinned man with large horns, long white hair, and red eyes looked calm and blissful as ever. He wore a full suit and had a tray placed delicately on one hand that held the tea pot, and other hand behind his back in a clear posture of a butler. Grabbing the pot, he began to refill the identical sisters' cups as Medusa carefully analyzed her next move.
Gabrielle sighed in amusement while Boudica giggled at the family sight.
Turning her head to look towards a table in the corner, the female master spied an even more amusing situation and slowly tapped on the rider's wrist to get her attention; How had she missed that before, she wondered. At the bar, surrounded by the pirates, was a certain demi-servant as they encouraged her to drink the pumpkin flavored beverages for the day. Drake had her arm around Mashu, cheering her on as she continued to drink the alcoholic drinks with a vibrant flush already gracing her face.
Although Boudica looked a little worried, it only grew when she saw Gabrielle giving her one. The pair looked back towards the demi-servant, well aware of what happened last time a certain drinking trio got her to try alcohol. Robin Hood, wearing a green, German Oktoberfest style outfit, brought several more drinks and caused cheers to go up amongst the group. Even Mashu cheered happily as she took another mug and clinked her glass with Drake's.
While the shielder began drinking more, Astolfo skipped up to Drake and the pair grinned at each other and high-fived. "So she'll finally wear my costume!?"
Astolfo spotted Gabrielle. His sparkling eyes grew wider before he skipped up to her swiftly. He leaned in, much to the curiosity of Boudica and whispered into the female master's ear. She pulled back and watched as Gabrielle's smirk deepened while shaking her head; Telling Gudao about the incident with Gawain could wait a bit in favor of this college grade prank. Boudica, who had clearly heard the whispering, sighed while shaking her head. "That's so bad!"
Gabrielle smiled with Astolfo. "That is terrible... Let's do it! You mischievous servants... I love you guys."
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The warm, summer air was defeated by the cooling, gentle breeze that flew across the beach. With a content sigh, the male master quietly appreciated the vibrant blues of the ocean and cloud splattered sky. Seagulls called overhead as they swooped down towards the ocean in attempts to sate their appetite. Gudao breathed in gently as Mashu slept soundly on his lap, allowing the man running a hand through her soft hair. She wore his plain blue shirt that helped cover her white bikini as she slept soundly on him. He didn't know how comfortable his swimsuit covered legs were, but figured she was happy enough and so let her be.
Fou jumped onto his bare shoulder and nuzzled itself against his cheek before dropping down softly onto the white blanket they rested on. Making its way out of the shade of the red and white umbrella, it casually sat down and began chewing on some watermelon left on a plate near a picnic basket. It chirped happily before a seagull swooped down and attempted to grab a piece for itself. What ensued was a small quarrel between the two before Fou's barking drove off the seagull and woke up Mashu.
Gently rubbing her eyes, she looked up and met Gudao's eyes and smiled warmly. "Have a nice rest?"
"Mmm," She mused before slowly sitting up and planting a light kiss on his cheek. "You're a great pillow, Senpai."
"I try," He replied as she slowly leaned towards him and closed her eyes.
"Senpai~" She breathed as she got closer. He felt his eyelids start to close himself.
"Senpai~"
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"Senpai~"
Gudao lazily opened his eyes and rubbed them with the sleeve of his master's outfit. He felt the cool breeze of a small fan blowing onto his partially exposed chest. The front of his uniform was open so he could take his nap easier, but he should have taken the coat off completely. He felt a little flushed upon having such a dream about his dear friend and wound up further embarrassed when he realized she was the one waking hi-
It was then that he realized there was a weight pressing down against his pelvis and his other hand was currently pinned. He quickly understood he was definitely in a compromising position with someone, and he had a very good idea who. His face flushed several shades darker before he threw his other arm off his face to reveal Mashu staring down at him, completely red herself and with a sultry and desiring glint in her blushing expression.
Gudao groaned at the scent of alcohol, knowing full well what was happening.
If it was possible to form new shades of red, Gudao had managed upon seeing what she was wearing. It was by far one of the most revealing things he had ever seen, and was beyond embarrassed about seeing Mashu wearing such an outfit; There was no way she would even dare to wear something like this in a solid state of mind. It didn't help she was straddling him better than any dream could conjure.
The furry patches that covered her private parts left almost nothing to the imagination and didn't help in his attempts to try and calm down his lower half. Satin gloves and thigh highs complimented the outfit in the most seductive way possible. The string that kept the pieces attached to her looked beyond tempting to pull to see what would give and how-
Realizing his thoughts were now starting to betray him too, he panicked and glanced around his room. She giggled and ran a hand slowly down his exposed chest. He had to do something before they wound up committing an irreversible act that would put a serious strain on their friendship.
Gudao's eyes flew over her discarded uniform skirt and sweater on the floor, gaining some relief knowing she didn't walk through Chaldea wearing this outfit alo-
That's when he heard the familiar laughing on the other side of the door. He groaned, half from Mashu's erotic touch, but more from the sight of the video camera currently recording the entire thing from a tripod across the room. He heard his best friend laughing through the door again, along with who he believed was Drake and Astolfo based on their own signature tones. At least he now knew who might be responsible for this frustrating idea.
Fou sat by the door with its head tilted, interested in what two of its caretakers were up to… again. Gudao had very mixed feelings at the moment, especially at the thought of someone purposefully getting Mashu drunk and dressing her in something so unbelievably skimpy. 'I'm going to have a stern talk with those three about this...'
With a raised voice, Gudao yelled past the closed door. "Gabby! I can't believe you would go this far."
"Oh come now, this is hardly the first time I've set you up for a great night," Gabrielle giggled in response. Drake and Astolfo made teasing sounds in response.
"Gabby! Get in here and stop this!" Gudao practically roared in embarrassment, and partial anger, before Mashu placed a finger to his lips to silence him, earning only further laughter from the outside trio. Mashu looked deeply into Gudao's panic stricken eyes.
"Shhh Senpai~ It's okay/" She breathed while biting her lower lip and having the drunken audacity to readjust her hips against him. "If they want to watch, I don't mind~"
"Good god! Gabby please!" Gudao practically squirmed as he shot a pleading look to the door and Fou, his displayed anger now partially gone in an attempt to convince them. Did Kiyohime or Tamamo know? He hoped not. He had enough to deal with. "I don't want to have to burn a command seal! Seriously! Help me!"
"It would all be so much easier if you stopped being so difficult about all this..." Gabrielle mused as the door flew open. Thankfully, only his best friend was there to look inside, and the other two seemed content to sit against the wall. She winked, "You could also consider this payback for some of the more serious pranks I never got you back for in senior year."
"OkayOkayIUnderstandJustGetHerOffMeOhLORD!" Gudao fired at lightning speed as he suddenly felt Mashu's hand reach the very end of his exposed abdomen and start playing with the button on his pants.
"Happy Halloween, Senpai~" The button came undone as she tried to slide her hand inside.
Gabby smirked and leaned against the door with crossed arms. "You forgot to say plea-"
"GABBY. PLEASE, SERIOUSLY!"
He would never accidentally pull an all-nighter again.