"It looks great here! Right, Asterios?"
The Minotaur thought for a moment before slowly nodding. "…Me think masters might like…"
"I think so too! It is a great symbol against Roman oppression!"
Asterios sighed from his spot on a werewolf pelt rug, and scratched his bare back. 'That did not work…'
With his unnerving grin somehow broader, Spartacus casually kept fiddling with the trophy plaque from where it hung on the pine wall. Varnished wood was stained to a sunset hue, which was only further enhanced by the warm glow of the large fireplace nearby. Spartacus stepped away from the wall with crossed arms over his battle attire, admiring the new trophy as it hung with the many others in their large abode. The taxidermy creations, both large and small, lined the wall, increasing the rustic and wild atmosphere of the partially dim chamber.
The huge berserkers' new, shared room was nearly half the size of Salon de Marie. It was one of the first new residences to be built, thanks mainly to Spartacus being very excited at the thought of a much larger place for themselves. Asterios and Heracles had also pitched in to quicken the pace, and wound up making it larger than even Da Vinci had planned. After quickly making sure the larger room was structurally sound, the berserkers had pitched in to help with the rest of construction as gratitude.
With residential construction complete, they quickly decorated their room to their liking. Thanks to the well-designed fireplace designed by Da Vinci, their room earned the nickname The Hearth, and even smelled like fresh wood and not smoke. It was fitting, especially when their lumber built beds and large, pine wood furniture gave a larger than life feel for anyone who came in. With warm pelt rugs, divider curtains, woven blankets, and flickering candles, Chaldea had received its first traditional and rustic room. Since it was dug into a far side of the new renovation, there was also no worry on potential expansion.
Built to handle more large berserkers should they arrive, the room sacrificed some privacy in favor of comradery. Unlike Asterios or the rather obedient Heracles, Spartacus was by all means impossible to control or listen to. The much larger, and friendlier, berserker remembered very well how problematic the gray-skinned man had been, seeing he truly represented the epitome of rebellion and defiance. Thankfully for the masters, Spartacus had forged a unique friendship with him and Heracles after having to share a renovated room with them, which only grew with the passing months.
For Asterios, the hardest part about being friends with Spartacus was making sure he didn't chase the Romans everywhere. Boudica helped him with that, but the large man still gave other occasional problems. Asterios wished he could be more obedient, but there was only so far anyone could get with the heavily muscled former-slave. His newest addition to the hearth, while funny to him and likely Boudica, was likely not the… kindest addition. It could have been far worse though, so he wouldn't argue. The Greek berserker instead casually sat with hands on his crossed legs, occasionally scratching through the large red blanket wrapped around them.
"The Galea looks good near the fireplace! Almost as great as the wyvern head!"
Asterios would have to tell Boudica the reverse psychology idea isn't as effective anymore.
¨·..·¨·..·¨·..·¨(¯ˆ·.¸ ¸.·ˆ¯)¨·..·¨·..·¨·..·¨
Fragment 34: In Darkness No More
¨·..·¨·..·¨·..·¨(¯ˆ·.¸ ¸.·ˆ¯)¨·..·¨·..·¨·..·¨
"Hey Asterios? What's with the Legionnaire helmet on the wall?"
"Spartacus called it Galea and think it trophy."
Kuro blinked again at the unusual addition to the room and giggled. Illya sat confused, and partially dumbfounded, at the revelation but kept staring.
The pair's legs were wrapped in white blankets that Heracles kept in the room for their visits. Coupled with the fireplace, Heracles' own coarse, handmade gifts made the girls feel even more welcome, which they always were. They almost always dressed casually when visiting, and it was no different this time. Since the pair weren't on the supply sortie later that day, they chose to spend time in this room in simple sweatpants and different, loose shirts. While Asterios liked Kuro's red one better, Heracles probably favored Illya's familiar purple.
"Can I have more tea, Berserker?" Illya asked with a small smile.
Heracles grunted, making the two girls chuckle as he clutched the oversized coffee pot from the table before them. At a snail's pace, he carefully managed to pour what was essentially a drop from the kettle into Illya's cup without spilling anything. He quickly filled his own oversized cup afterwards, though splashed a small bit onto his pelt skirt. Asterios knew the fellow Greek Hero likely didn't care about the spill as he repeated the intricate process of topping off Kuro's cup. With his task complete, and the two girls clapping for him, he put the black pot back onto the pine table.
Asterios quietly observed the slightly smaller berserker as he turned his gaze fondly towards the two girls at his sides while the three conversed. Though the expression on his face still made it look menacing, anyone who spent enough time around the Greek legend would know how kind and overprotective he was with these two. Asterios had thought there was no soft side to the growling berserker, but he had been proven wrong immediately since the Einzbern girls had arrived. He still remembered how startled they look when he approached them, and how persistent he had been in proving he wanted to be friends.
Maybe the others saw him like that with Euryale and Stheno? The friendly giant was always his nickname.
It had taken time for each of them to become situated in Chaldea. There was the preconceived notion that a mad enhancement meant they lacked any and all thinking or self-control. While this was the case for some, the effects varied. Asterios has had a lot of time to think for himself, though communicating was problematic because of his origin. His lack of knowledge was only increased thanks to the grail, and continues to grow with the help of others here. From what he was aware of, it seemed Spartacus' was the only seriously problematic mad enhancement left.
While watching Ruby inspect the new helmet, Asterios calmly poured himself more tea from the large kettle. The three large berserkers couldn't use smaller silverware, so they had some specially made items thanks to Da Vinci. Creating them was child's play for the esteemed inventor, though Asterios remembered she thought making salad bowl sized tea cups was one of her most hysterical projects. They were high on her personal funniest rankings next to the bucket sized beer steins Spartacus wanted for the three of them. Asterios smiled slightly, appreciating what relations he's made in this facility and how generous many have been to them.
He only wished he had the ability to say things as well as he could slowly think of them. He turned to Kuro upon noticing her gaze. "Why the smile, big guy?"
"Why need reason to smile?" Asterios asked with a grin, making Kuro chuckle.
Heracles nodded and grunted. He then growled quietly at Asterios with several pauses and tonal changes, making him cheerily nod in response. One final grunt was met with another nod. "Yes, that right."
The girls turned to each other in confusion, before looking at Asterios with small pouts. Kuro growled as Ruby flew over. "It's not fair, Asterios!"
"Why won't you and Spatacus do it?" Illya grumbled while gripping her blanket. "Teach us how to understand Berserker better!"
"We want to understand our friend too!" Kuro complained, though it made Heracles stare at her in appreciation.
"I can't. It a berserker thing," Asterios smiled, and Heracles seemed to produce a grunting sound that mimicked laughing.
"Not fair!" Kuro groaned as she fell back onto the softness of a werewolf pelt. She sighed at how comfy it felt. Asterios looked over upon hearing a metallic clink hitting the stone floor. Kuro reached over with a solemn smile and grabbed the fallen craft coins. He wasn't surprised she carried two, considering some servants keep the mementos on them until it came time for battle; The last thing they wanted was for the competing items to nullify each other.
Kuro held one up and sighed. "I miss Miyu…"
Illya's smile faded into a frown. "I miss Miyu too… I miss everyone."
Asterios was aware of their predicament. Due to the workings of the singularity they had been involved in, the girls had been turned into pseudo heroic spirits upon arrival due to that strange sort of reality marble. He had helped them succeed in rescuing their friend, as did many others, but it was parting with her that was heart wrenching. Due to the shift in their beings due to some still unknown cause, they could not return to their world with her. Asterios knew well what it was like to be placed somewhere he didn't wish to be.
Heracles' giant hands softly pet the top of the girls' heads. Their smiles slowly returned as they looked at him. He simply nodded and grunted, with a small trace of a smile, that was rarely seen, on the berserker's face. Asterios watched the peaceful scene. Even if they were stuck here, they had new family and friends they could find some comfort with. Their real friends could not be replaced, but it helped to soften the blow with their new situation. The tallest berserker could only hope they would get to see them again somehow, outside of a simple craft coin. Only time would tell, as he knew well.
¨·..·¨·..·¨·..·¨(¯ˆ·.¸ III ¸.·ˆ¯)¨·..·¨·..·¨·..·¨
His breathing was strained in his malnourished state, as it always was.
To change that, there was only one way out… but he could never escape.
He could only go so far as to see a glimpse of sunlight upon the ground before the runes activated. They would shock him with an unimaginable pain, but it was nothing compared to the agony of living here. This walled hell that was made for him alone would always torment his being. How long had he been forced to dwell here against his wishes? Counting stopped a long time ago, but still he continued to struggle. He continued to do what he did not wish.
"Please! Don't eat me! Please!"
Barely of age and wrapped in crude rags for clothing, the weakened boy could only crawl backwards in fear as he approached. This was the part he never enjoyed, but it was necessary for him. Every ounce of his body ached for food, and if he died, he may never be able to see his wish come true. All he could ever do was strike swiftly with his axe. As the sound of the thrust echoed through the coarse stone of his dark prison, the boy's life ended in an instant. He needed to eat, but he would not make his only source of food suffer. Even still, the look of terror on their faces always embedded themselves in his mind.
The Minotaur never enjoyed this.
He often doubted whether it truly was all his diet would allow, considering it's all he ever received. Men from above the sacrificial hole would often say he was a man eating beast, but what choice did he have than to eat solely them when nothing else was given?
Darkness surrounded him, but he only wished to see the light. He committed sins he did not want to only to persevere and let the cycle continue. How many had King Minos sent down here, only for him to kill and consume? There was no choice in the matter, for he simply did the only thing he could to survive. If there had been any other choice, he would have gladly taken it, but just like the labyrinth that held him prisoner, there was only one way.
It seems his mother… the King… the gods, have all forsaken him to this hell to repeat a cycle he would wish upon no one.
Still, he would press on with this miserable life. He would hold on to the small slither of hope that he would see the light of day beyond that teasing stretch at the end of the labyrinth. The voices from above the dark, sacrificial hole always called it his, but it wasn't. This was not what the Minotaur of Crete wanted for himself. As much as his optimism had vanished over time, he would still hold on to his true desire. One day he would escape this place, or someone would free him of it.
Asterios would never give up the hope he may one day be removed from the shackles of his fate.
¨·..·¨·..·¨·..·¨(¯ˆ·.¸ IV ¸.·ˆ¯)¨·..·¨·..·¨·..·¨
His breathing was slow and calm, and the smile was genuine and happy, as it always was here.
The Science Division had more specialized rooms than the magecraft counterpart, and it was always a point of rude remarks from the latter. There was no doubt it was necessary, since they provided the means to keep Chaldea running in an almost self-sufficient manner when sustenance was involved. It was their Bioscience Department that kept the entire organization fed, though the variety did leave much to be desired. Supply sorties had fixed the luxury taste issue, but the vast majority of fruit and vegetables were still swiftly grown in the Biogardens.
The underground room was second in size only to the Deployment Room that held Chaldeas. While not as large, it still took up a decent amount of an adjacent mountain's interior. Rows upon rows of enhanced planters filled with enriched fertilizer grew plentiful food for the population. Overhanging, bright sun lamps and mist machines kept conditions perfect for every plant species. The walls and relatively high ceiling were painted a sky blue, with occasional white clouds splattered across the fake sky to make it feel more like the outside world.
From the friendly employees to the lush greenery, it was a calm environment to spend time in.
The false sky was a nice touch, but it was still different from seeing it during a singularity. He had quietly wondered if these nice employees were quietly as depressed as he was when he couldn't see the real sky. Their content and pleasant smiles always made him second guess the thought, and he could only hope they liked it here as much as he did. Though it was comforting, it was not the true reason Asterios loved the Biogardens. A passing employee with garden gloves tossed him a smile, but he paid it no attention as his eyes stayed locked on the fluttering wings of various color before him.
Asterios sat with crossed legs in his favorite part of the large room, separated from the rest because of the colorful butterflies floating around. He looked down at his red set of giant sweatpants to enjoy the many butterflies that confused it for a flower. Their wings fluttered slowly, and he found himself mesmerized in their beauty again even as an occasional little friend landed on his bare torso or hair. Hundreds of them filled this flowery section, bursting with countless species and hybrids being grown for scientific or medicinal purposes. Though this section was no longer as necessary thanks to supply sorties, it was the closest to nature he could get in Chaldea.
Thus, the butterflies flew around almost freely without any worry for pollination control.
It was still helpful to have cross-breeding plants for experimentation and research, especially for mages, but that was in another smaller section. The countless butterflies had helped to ensure pollination happened efficiently, but the berserker paid it no thought. All he cared about were the colorful critters that flew around him, giving him a sense of inner peace and happiness he had long desired. With a flap of its wings, one butterfly landed on his nose, making him go cross eyed as it stared at the fully-grown monarch.
"Hello…" Asterios whispered. Its wings fluttered in response, making his smile grow ever so slightly.
"You a pretty color." Its wings flapped once more.
Minutes past as he watched it rest. Though he couldn't do any deep thinking as others, he did learn he can come to this wonderful place to find peace. It had become his own little spot in Chaldea, and the staff were more than happy to let him enjoy the place. It had caused them concern at first, but they soon grew used to it as with all things in the facility. Left almost completely alone, it let the berserker fully appreciate and think about how far he's come. His waiting and struggling were finally over.
An employee walked over quietly in consideration for the servant. "Mister Asterios, I'm sorry to bother you, but would you mind helping my colleagues move a small pallet of hardware? It's too big for our dolly carts."
"Okay," the berserker nodded with a smile.
"Thanks, Asterios. You're so kind," the male employee smiled back, and motioned to follow.
Asterios carefully got up and began walking towards the exit of the section, causing the butterflies to quickly disperse to nearby flowers. Helping the employees of the room was not something he needed to do in exchange, but Asterios did it gladly. Their respect, appreciation, and kindness shown to him weren't reason enough either, but it did make him more enthusiastic to help the kind humans. With one last look and promise to return, he walked out of the flower section with a smile.
The Minotaur did it because he was happy.
¨·..·¨·..·¨·..·¨(¯ˆ·.¸ V ¸.·ˆ¯)¨·..·¨·..·¨·..·¨
Another nearby room was far more cramped, making the berserker tread a bit carefully when moving the equipment. He set it down gently near a conglomeration of computers and servers. Along with the other scientific machines in the room, this made the place more electronic and research oriented focus than Biosciences. As one of the more frequented rooms by Da Vinci, and an active number of working scientists, it was clear this one had significant importance to Chaldea. It was his first time actually seeing the interior of this room.
"Thanks for helping them, Asterios," Roman cheered as he pat the large berserker on his arm.
"Welcome," he nodded quietly as he looked around. He was being very careful about his movements as Da Vinci walked by him with a pencil in her mouth. The inventor stared in full contemplation at the clipboard in front of her. She hummed quietly as she walked, possibly unaware that Roman stared at her derriere as her black skirt swayed with the slight movement of her hips. He quickly shot his glance back up to a respectable level on the back of her white blouse, though Asterios had noted all of it.
He didn't actually care as much as his real curiosity. "What room for?"
"The purpose?" Roman repeated as a confirmation. Upon receiving a nod, he continued. "This is another research room, but this one is specialized in Leyshift Operation. They've been investigating and examining how to extend the range since we can't detect the any primary anomalies. Do you understand?"
"I'm sure he gets the gist, Roman. Asterios has speaking issues, not intellectual ones," Da Vinci reprimanded as she approached them once more. She smiled at Asterios as he simply nodded. "It's been difficult trying to extend the system's range since it wasn't made to transport or detect far into the past. It's likely that's where the seventh primary waits, but we have no means of answering it until then."
"No go faster?" Asterios questioned. Roman and Da Vinci shook their heads.
"Everyone capable is working as hard as they can, with reasonable breaks for rest. This isn't something we can rush," Roman remarked with a serious expression. "We have to make sure it gets done exactly right since there's only one way to test it, and that's a live fire. The last thing we want to do is loose the masters and servants to the past and not be able to bring you home. Humanity will be doomed at that point."
Asterios slowly nodded, understanding the risks. Still, he was confused. "Why difficult though?"
Da Vinci tapped the pencil against her clipboard. "Think of it like a firearm, but we can't change the ammunition. The weapon is only made to fire accurately to a certain distance, and extending its range even a little requires significant upgrades. At the worst, it may even need a total remodel, but that would make the firearm inoperable. Should danger approach and we can't use it, we've handed the enemy victory on a silver platter."
With a faster nod, Asterios confirmed he understood. It made sense when put like that, but it was still a little unnerving even for him. They were essentially helpless in countering the last singularity while the scientists worked out a solution through their research. If even Da Vinci was having issues, it was clear this wasn't going to be solved anytime soon. Hopefully they truly did have until the end of this year to solve the issue since Chaldeas has marked the rough deadline.
Slowly, the berserker looked at the busily working scientists. Many were between their twenties and thirties, and likely full of potential, which was who Marisbilly often hired for the organization. They were far more agreeable and open-minded compared to the older generations, but it was sad to note the weight of humanity's destiny rested on their shoulders. Asterios and the others were legends who have carried burdens of incredible weight, but by all accounts, many of these people were normal humans. Even if they knew they were joining to help preserve civilization's future, how many realized it would truly happen? Fate could be cruel.
Quietly watching them, Asterios realized their strength for holding themselves together, even if they possibly didn't see it themselves. Perhaps it was the idea they were allowed to enjoy themselves that held them together. Maybe it was being inspired by the servants and masters placing themselves in danger that kept them going. Whatever the case, he was glad many could remain so kind, and seemingly so normal, despite the trap door beneath their feet.
They were fighting in their own way too, and he would acknowledge that. This was their battlefield. "Good luck."
"Hmm?" Roman asked as he looked at the berserker. He only continued to look at the employees as they worked.
The same employee from before approached Asterios. "Would you mind helping with another crate? It's alright if it inconveniences you."
Asterious simply nodded again. They were hard at work, and the butterflies certainly weren't going anywhere. He'd gladly help.
¨·..·¨·..·¨·..·¨(¯ˆ·.¸ VI ¸.·ˆ¯)¨·..·¨·..·¨·..·¨
While quietly humming to himself, Asterios walked down the hallway slightly hunched over. If the berserker was still envious of anything, it was how everyone else could get around Chaldea without height issues. Wasn't there a phrase in one of Euryale's gifted picture books that said it's great to be tall? At least his fellow berserkers didn't have to deal with this on a daily basis, but it was nicer than being in spirit form. He didn't get to walk around anywhere besides the labyrinth, so he still took every opportunity he could to appreciate it.
Helping in the Science Lab burned enough time, so Euryale was likely back with her sisters. Usually the twins would be complaining about having to do too much work, which was any for them. It would quickly be followed with Medusa reassuring them it wasn't too bad, which would make the goddesses turn on their little sister. After the scolding, Medusa would sulk with a funny expression and find her refuge within a book, or working, at the library. Though their words did affect her on some level, Asterios was well aware it was simply a family thing. They were dear reunited sisters, first and foremost.
Asterios turned the corner and nearly walked into Medusa, with the expression he was expecting. He smiled down at the well-dressed Gorgon sister as she quickly hid her former frown. With a curious glance, he then noted what appeared to be a new top. The black pencil skirt, leggings, and heels were the usual when she worked, but the purple, long-sleeved blouse he had never seen before. It wouldn't have caught his attention as much, but the way the entire outfit hugged her body and the plunging neckline was rather suggestive even for the rider. Asterios finally looked back at her eyes as Medusa blinked and sighed.
"If you stared that long, this really is as sultry as my sisters say…" the rider relented while crossing her arms.
"Not that bad," Asterios replied with a reassuring smile. "Just thought it make you look pretty."
She smiled softly at him. "Thanks, Asterios. I hope Hans, Shakespeare, or Helena don't poke as much fun as my sisters."
"They poke fun cause jealous not sexy as you," Asterios grinned, and Medusa laughed. The infamous Minotaur could take pride in a few things, but his ability to make the three sisters openly laugh or quickly cheer them up was his favorite. The rider calmed herself as a hint of mischief twinkled in her eye.
"Oh? My coworkers or sisters…?" She smiled artfully at him. Asterios was used to the little sister's own, rare traps. Though Medusa was far more reserved, she could tease like her sisters if she considered someone close to her. He fell under that blanket. She likely was hoping he would slip in some way, but he simply grinned wider.
"Yes. Shakespeare not sexy." The rider laughed once more before covering her mouth with one hand. She slowly nodded in appreciation.
"Thanks you for the laugh, Asterios," Medusa smiled at him and nodded. "Euryale is waiting for you. She has a gift."
"Ohh! Present!" the berserker beamed, causing Medusa to giggle quietly as she walked away. He moved faster towards the girls' shared room.
¨·..·¨·..·¨·..·¨(¯ˆ·.¸ VII ¸.·ˆ¯)¨·..·¨·..·¨·..·¨
"Movie?" Asterios asked as he looked at the gift.
"Yes, dummy. Of course it's a movie!" Euryale reprimanded with an exasperated smile as she held the DVD to his face. Her other hand rested on the hip of her pristine white wrap dress while Stheno sat on the couch with her matching set. The oldest sister giggled as Euryale shook her head. "I knew you'd like this."
"I do," Asterios replied with a smile as he stared at the cover. Thanks to the throne's imparted knowledge, he had linguistic fundamentals in order to function in the world properly. Understanding of languages helped a servant greatly, though he didn't need it to enjoy the trail of Monarch Butterflies flying in a pattern on the cover. The title Flight of the Butterflies only sealed his approval as his smile remained glowing.
"Gabby said it belonged to an employee who got fired. It was in the records," Euryale noted as she let the berserker carefully take the DVD. "Hector found a secret movie collection in his room as he was moving in today… Sheesh, the lengths the employees went to hide contraband."
"I can keep?" Asterios asked curiously. Euryale looked dumbfounded, while Stheno giggled louder.
"Yes, dummy! I got it for you!" the archer sighed as he eagerly smiled wider.
"Let watch, Euryale!"
The archer blinked. "We goddesses were going to meet with Kiyohime and-"
"I'll go, you stay here and watch it with Asterios," the oldest sister replied smoothly as she got up from the couch. "You two haven't spent much time together this week. It would be nice to change that, right, Asterios? You would appreciate that blessing, no?"
"I would! Make me happy!" Asterios nodded eagerly as he smiled expectantly towards Euryale. The archer could only sigh, both at his eagerness and the sly look Stheno aimed at her. Asterios turned back to the DVD held delicately in his hand and nodded. "Thank you for gift! I love you, Euryale!"
The goddess turned several shades redder as Stheno struggled to keep herself standing under her fit of giggles. "Asterios y-you dummy! Don't say such things in public!"
"We're not in public, dearest twin."
"Don't side with him, Stheno!" she cried out in frustration and embarrassment. Stheno held her laughter back as the door to their room opened for her. The eldest sister disappeared behind the closing door with a simple wave as Euryale groaned from her spot in front of the big berserker. "…you dummy."
"Sorry, Euryale…" Asterios murmured quietly, in a way only the surprisingly gentle berserker could.
She sighed. "I'm not mad at you or anything, Asterios. I gave you a gift, didn't I? Here… Let me start it for you."
Euryale quickly plucked the DVD from Asterios' hand and walked over to their television. A panel in the wall opened to reveal a hidden diskette player, a tiny gift from Da Vinci that barely took any of the inventor's time. As the archer quietly hummed to herself, Asterios watched her turn on the devices. He quietly readjusted his sitting position on the floor to face the screen comfortably, all the while appreciating his special bond with the goddess.
Hardly a dummy, Asterios knew what the word love meant, but he used it as a term of utmost appreciation. With a mother and step-father who abandoned him, he had no family of his own until he came to Chaldea; Medea was the first true blood relation to be nice to him. However, through their mutual time in Okeanos, he had bonded with Euryale in his job to protect her. It went further than that, and he did nearly everything for her, and she showed her appreciation of it in her own ways... all because she was the first to say his name.
It meant so much to him, and he still couldn't put it into proper, eloquent words he wanted.
He had continued those actions faithfully since his arrival, after much tearful berating for bravely sacrificing himself in an attempt to stop the opposing Heracles. He would gladly do it for her again since she was special to him. He had lots of friends now, but he owed it all to Euryale, for paving the way forward. The Minotaur was now just a rare title compared to his nearly exclusively spoken real name.
The light flicked off as Euryale gracefully waltzed over to Asterios before sitting herself comfortably on his large legs. She gently leaned back into his side to use it as a rest, which was considerably more comfortable than his bony shoulder. With a press of the remote, she started the movie, and giggled as Asterios quickly inhaled upon the first sights. He recalled, upon studying the cover, that the movie was better with certain glasses and a setting, but he didn't understand why. Smiling in delight, he was already happy with what he was seeing without the suggestions.
Euryale glanced up at him and smiled, before turning back to the flat-screen to enjoy the movie as well.
¨·..·¨·..·¨·..·¨(¯ˆ·.¸ VIII ¸.·ˆ¯)¨·..·¨·..·¨·..·¨
The hallways were relatively quiet after dinner when most were retiring. Usually. A pair of servants turned a nearby corner, and he waved.
"Hey big guy!" "Hi Asterios." They soon returned to their typical bickering.
"Come on! It's the late-night fighter tournament and you said you would support me!" Mordred exclaimed as she ran down the hall. Jekyll followed after, but dragged would be a better description. The enthusiastic saber, wearing her rather revealing white tube top and jean shorts, kept a strong grip on his hand, being considerate by not gripping the assassin's red dress shirt. Jekyll's tan slacks were an inconsistent blur as he tried to keep his balance behind the grinning saber.
"Like I have a choice at this point," Jekyll joked, earning him a light scowl which made him chuckle. "I promised. I'll be there for you, just let me move on my own for once! I get you're excited!"
"But I like dragging you around!" Mordred laughed as they disappeared down the hallway.
"Alright... Only because you like it," he relented. Asterios turned to watch them pause in the hallway momentarily. Mordred's expression went from surprised to delighted, before she chuckled with her toothy grin. Jekyll's smile grew as well, before he let her drag him down a nearby corridor while they both laughed. Soon it fell quiet once more, with only a robot floating by on cleaning duty making any sort of noise.
Asterios rubbed his stomach in content delight as he walked off the feast they shared in the Hearth. Heracles and Asterios would often have dinner in their room to give their fellow berserker company. Spartacus had been banned from Salon de Marie after causing Marie much grief upon starting a fight with the Romans on his first day. There were very few in Chaldea who possibly thought the ever-glowing queen could become such a raging inferno, but no one wanted to see it again. Scathach had been very busy that night, he remembered, and he had helped her as best as he could.
"I will not state this again, King of Uruk. Leave them alone."
"What I do with my time is nothing of your concern, fool. Arturia is my treasure, and she will be claimed by me, not by that talent-less faker."
"You cretin! Have you learned nothing in your time!?"
"Watch your words. Goddess among my people or not, I will not hesitate to strike you down."
His curiosity in the words was quickly drowned out as he approached the windowed hallway near the library. A servant materialized next to him, and he looked down to see Scathach staring at him with a deadly serious expression. "Asterios. I apologize, but I must draft your help."
He noted the sudden ferocity in Gilgamesh's nearby growl and nodded. "I help."
Asterios shifted into his battle attire as several servants turned a corner further back, already sporting combat clothing though only one had a presence concealment cloak. Cu's spear was at the ready, as was Nightingale's pistol. Her other hand was clutched around Dantes' wrist as he was dragged towards them. As the servants gathered, Asterios summoned his axes, making sure not to take up too much room in the smaller hallway. Dantes scowled lightly and stared at Nightingale, but she simply looked back.
Scathach nodded. "Alright. Let's go. Okita should have Ishtar's side."
The group of five quickly dashed around the corner, stopping the bickering servants' argument dead in its tracks as Okita's group materialized on the opposite side. The saber had her weapon drawn, as did the other four behind her. Asterios quickly glanced over to see Hans, Mata Hari, Fergus, and Drake prepped for combat. His even look returned to the back of the King of Heroes in front of him, who slowly glared back with pure annoyance.
Ishtar floated in front of him with an equally annoyed look, but it was leveled entirely on the male archer. Her red evening dress waved in an unseen breeze as he turned back towards her, arms still crossed over his creme colored suit. His loose hair did little to hide the fierceness in his red eyes as he glared at the goddess with grit teeth. The entire hallway was silent as their glare continued, and Scathach stepped forward.
"Gilgamesh. Ishtar. Stand down."
"Who are you to try and order me around, woman!?" Gilgamesh roared as he turned to face Scathach. She didn't even flinch.
"I would gladly, but I will not until he does, Scathach. His harassment of my friends has gone on for too long!"
"I do not wish to let the masters get involved in this! Final warning! Stand down!" Scathach declared as she summoned her prototype spear.
The sounds of tightened grips and rustling weapons filled the hallway as Gilgamesh eyed the numbers. Asterios' eyes narrowed, wondering if the king was actually considering taking them on. Though hastily organized, there should be far too many of them even with the skill differences. They were also in prepared positions, and he would not use Enkidu or EA on such a meaningless task since it was likely not worth it for him. The King of Heroes' arrogance was exactly what they had to bank on, and after a minute of tense silence, it finally paid off.
"I will not forget this, Ishtar. Do not think I will let her slip from my grasp." Gilgamesh growled and uncrossed his hands. As everyone tensed for a portal to appear, he pocketed his hands into his formal pants and disappeared into golden dust.
The tension slowly disappeared as Ishtar let out a frustrated sigh. "Sorry, but I will not apologize for that, Scathach. I can't let him harass them so freely."
"Understandable, but please ask for some assistance when dealing with Gilgamesh," the Irish legend noted with a nod. "I know you two have past experiences dealing with each other, but that only makes the situation more volatile. I request you also be more diplomatic next time."
The prideful goddess shrugged, and barely nodded. "If I brought either of them, it may have gone worse. I'll consider being more diplomatic, but it's hard with him."
Asterios watched as Scathach sighed, clearly knowing there wasn't much in terms of negotiating involving some deities. Ishtar simply smiled. "Thank you for the assistance, though. I appreciate it. With that out of the way then, I will take my leave. I still have to read up on this Valentine's Day Illya told me about."
With a hum, the goddess vanished into golden dust, leaving the two groups in a small pause of silence. It was quickly broken. Soon after her disappearance, there was another frustrated grumble from Dantes. Asterios and the eyes of Okita's approaching group turned to him. He did not appear pleased, though it mainly rested on Nightingale from the looks of it. The nurse simply shrugged and crossed her arms as she faced her friend.
"You know as well as I do your capabilities make you top notch for situations like this."
"I do not recall penning a contract for peacekeeping duties, Nightingale," Dantes reminded with a small growl of irritation.
"No one did, Dantes. It's on an as-needed basis," Nightingale reminded plainly. "Still, you came all four times, and I'm sure Scathach appreciates it."
"The first and second time I could let slide since the masters had requested my assistance. As for these recent events... I acquiesced to you whisking me away, or you may have succeeded in taking Joan in my stead had I not convinced you I was enough. Twice, I shall add," the avenger replied with a scowl. "Far better just myself than both of us, considering you wouldn't accept no for an answer. Are you saying she's a better peacekeeper than Jeanne?"
"You were the closest available, that's all. Nothing more. That's how it always worked," Scathach interjected as her spear dematerialized. "Some volunteer if the timing and escalation allow, but there's no dedicated peacekeeping servants besides myself. There was never a need before."
"But there is now, Scathach," Okita noted as she sheathed her katana. "The masters can't let this go on, and you can't keep doing this. It isn't right. You're dragging assorted servants into tense situations they may not wish to be involved with. You have the best intentions for Chaldea in mind, but not everyone's eager for a potential fight like Cu."
"Eh, what's wrong with that?" Cu asked nonchalantly with a small smirk, clearly attempting to dissipate some tension. It worked on many, but Scathach, Okita, and Dantes remained serious. He sighed. "Look… Let's talk it over with the masters about finally getting a real peacekeeping force... All volunteers, that way we can be quicker about responding. That way we don't irritate anyone by stealing them from their private time with their significant others or something."
Dantes growled something about Joan and him not seeing each other, but only Nightingale heard. She chuckled at his frustration and assumption, while Scathach nodded in agreement with her student. "Alright. Cu and Okita, let's go talk with the masters. Everyone else, I apologize for the inconvenience. Especially you, Dantes."
The avenger simply sighed in irritation and shrugged, though the lancer was unperturbed. "I wish you all a pleasant rest of the evening."
The trio quickly began making their way towards the residential area, followed by Nightingale and Dantes as they bickered. The rest of the servants, some relieved to be done with the task, began dispersing. Asterios was about to shift back into his casual clothes before he noted Hans approaching him. Quietly dusting the front of his blue suit, he stared up at the much taller berserker. The height difference was beyond amusing, and Drake considered poking fun at the sight in exchange for being dragged away from her drink. To the caster's relief, she didn't.
"Good evening, Asterios. How did you like that nature book Shakespeare and I found for you?"
"It has beautiful pictures," Asterios smiled, making the caster smile lightly at him. "Thank you."
"You're welcome. We'll be sure to give you another if we come across another duplicate."
Hans waved farewell before starting his walk back towards the library. Asterios' smile followed the caster before he turned down the opposite end of the hallway. Unlike most servants, Hans was actually fairly polite to him. There has never been an abrasive conversation with the caster, though the berserker always made sure to respect the rules of the library when he was reading. Whatever the cause might be, he didn't care or mind. Perhaps it was simply because he was so docile and too kind, as Euryale often loved to put it.
He stopped and pondered. Maybe he could ask for a drink from the salon once the robots were done cleaning.
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"You don't feel like sleeping just yet?"
Asterios shook his head as he watched Mata Hari fill up his stein in a lovely, yellow strapless. The Minotaur had returned to his room to get it before returning just before ten that evening. Salon de Marie had been nearly empty, with only Drake and Fergus talking by the bar since the Party Cave's counterpart was currently closed for some remodeling. The berserker knew the true reason since he helped a few times, and looked forward to it opening again. With the two's recent leave, he had been left alone with the assassin who happily continued to pour him fruit punch.
Drinking alcohol wasn't a problem for him, since he often indulged whenever Beowulf and Nightingale would join them in their room, both old and new. He simply preferred the taste of the fruit juice because it reminded him more of nature than the other beverages could. Any kind of juice was alright with him, but if he had to pick a favorite alcohol, it would always be the fermented grape taste of any wine. Tonight didn't feel like a night to indulge though.
"Here you go, love." Mata Hari chimed with a smile as she handed the very large stein to the berserker.
"Thank you," he smiled back and began swirling it. With a small giggle, the assassin retreated to a nearby stool where her drink waited. As she sat on the stool and crossed her legs, she picked up her wine glass and held it up. He reached over with his long arm and gently clinked his stein against her glass. "Cheers, Asterios~!"
They drank their respective beverages, quietly enjoying each other's company. Soon he felt the presence of an approaching servant. Filled with curiosity, he turned his head to the door, causing Mata Hari to mimic the movement. Mozart slowly strolled into view with an instrument case in one hand and sheet music in the other. A recent supply sortie had given the more musically inclined a chance to obtain more instruments, and Mozart had clearly taken advantage of making a request. As Marie's still formally dressed musician arrived at the piano, he looked up from the music sheets he held to notice Asterios staring at him.
"Oh, I didn't expect you to be here, Asterios," Mozart noted curiously as he placed an instrument case on the stool of the grand piano. He took off the jacket of his outfit and laid it on the piano since Marie was no longer there for the evening.
"I wanted to relax," Asterios noted from his spot on the floor near the bar. Mozart nodded with a small smile before turning his attention to the case.
"Not many better places, besides your butterfly sanctuary, of course."
Asterios nodded happily as Mata Hari giggled. He soon turned his attention to his friend. "He always come late? I don't remember."
"They're practicing for tomorrow. It's their debut," Mata Hari replied softly. As she brushed her loose hair, she eyed the doorway as another warm presence approached. A friendly ruler walked through with a small smile and more sheet music. "Just two more now."
Jeanne had changed into amethyst sweat pants and a loose, white shirt. She waved to the two before she began talking to Mozart. Mata Hari's eyebrows rose when she saw Mozart pull out a viola from the case. From what Asterios knew, Mozart had only ever performed on the piano in Chaldea, but he was known to have played other instruments as well. As he slowly began tuning the viola, the last servant walked into the room, making the assassin's eyes widen in anticipation.
"Good evening, everyone."
"Hi, Sir Tristan!" Mata Hari greeted, and giggled when he stopped to bow lightly towards her.
Asterios had to think a little bit before realizing what was happening. The grail provided all information necessary to identify enemy servants, but it still took some thought for him to realize why Tristan had appeared in a white button up tucked into black slacks. As he rested two instrument cases on the ground, the berserker was curious if he was able to play them since it was never noted in his legend. Neither of the two instruments newly unveiled were anywhere near the size of the one he was truly renown for.
"Are you sure you're comfortable after only a few lessons, Tristan?" Mozart asked as the archer picked up the smaller one first, a violin.
He nodded quietly with closed eyes. "I should be fine after receiving days of your diligent instruction, Mozart, though the harp will always be my best. Although, the thought of playing that instrument always makes me a little sad."
"This piece is already emotional as it is without that," Jeanne mentioned quietly as she glanced over the sheet music. She handed Tristan his set as he adjusted his music stand. "I hope the second one is a little more uplifting."
"It is, I promise you… but the mood and palpable emotion in this one caught my attention," the caster smiled. "I have not seen the movie it is a part of, but this composition does wonders to convince me I should."
"I am interested in seeing the rest of this soundtrack myself," Tristan murmured as he glanced over the sheet music quickly.
"By modern standards, it's breathtaking," Mozart admitted, making Jeanne giggle. He simple huffed and rolled his eyes. "I do not see why you find it so amusing, Jeanne. The hordes of abominations that are declared as music… it's abhorring. Dreadful. Especially that… electronic filth Tyler plays too loudly."
Jeanne only giggled more as she rearranged her music sheets. "I think he does that because you're so irritated by it."
"I would rather listen to Elizabeth singing Figaro's Aria…"
The Holy Maiden cringed, but Tristan could only look between the two in confusion. They glanced at him in slight envy. "Be glad you did not hear it."
Tristan could only nod slowly in appreciation.
Asterios was confused by that notion. While Elizabeth calling him piggy was strange, since he was more of a bull, they were rather kind to each other. He even listened to some of her songs to cheer her up when she felt down, and it didn't bother him that much. They did have to do it in the auditorium for the sake of everyone else, but it wasn't as bad as others believed. It wasn't angelic like Jeanne's voice, but it wasn't too bad… Was he part of the minority? He didn't actually hear anyone sing in person while he was in the labyrinth.
"Oh, this is exciting. We get a sneak peak of this weekend's special dinner performance, Asterios!" Mata Hari quietly cheered next to him. "You three don't mind if we watch, do you? We promise we can keep a secret, right, love?"
Without missing a beat, Asterios quickly nodded in an exaggerated fashion. Jeanne giggled, and a small smile formed on Tristan's face even as his eyes remained closed. Asterios wondered if he ever opened them. It was difficult enough walking around a barely lit labyrinth with his eyes wide open, yet Tristan walks around Chaldea without opening his. Archers were the most unusual class, and Tristan was hardly another exception to that note.
Tristan started warming up on the violin, and Asterios fell off his simplistic thought train to listen. The glint of pride in Mozart's eyes showed that he approved what he was hearing, and his lessons definitely shown through surprisingly quick. It was a simple scale followed by a quick, easy song, yet Tristan's notes were swans gracefully flying to fill the room. Mata Hari breathed out in awe as Mozart soon joined him on the viola, and followed swiftly by Jeanne's own voice. Without communication or planning, harmony was forged as the sounds intertwined to conceive perfection. Slowly it came to a stop, and the two clapped loudly for what was just an unplanned warmup.
"Mayhaps we should make our warmups their own music," Tristan teased with a small smile.
"Maybe," Jeanne hummed as she glanced over her sheet music with a smile. "Maybe our first playthrough will be as blessed."
"Only one way to find out, Maid of Orleans," Mozart declared enthusiastically as he lifted the bow back into position.
Silence fell across the room as Asterios wiggled his toes in anticipation. Jeanne closed her eyes as Mozart began a silent count for him and Tristan. His voice slowly faded, only to be replaced by the tandem sounds of the stringed instruments. Violin and viola played the first long note, followed by another before they broke into their own complimenting paths. Two sounds intertwined as Jeanne gently breathed in to join them in their personal cover.
~~Lay down~~
~~Your sweet and weary head~~
~~The night is falling~~
~~You've come to journey's end~~
Asterios didn't realize he was slowly swaying to the tune as Mata Hari held one hand near her mouth. The berserker glanced at her as Jeanne's voice continued to soar on wings provided by the stringed companions. It was only the beginning of the song, and even he could feel what they meant by emotional. By the looks on the assassin's face, she clearly could too. Slowly he turned back to the newly forged musical trio to quietly appreciate their breathtaking dance.
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The door to the hearth slowly opened, allowing the berserker to peer in cautiously. He didn't want to wake his two friends, and materializing from spirit form would have certainly stirred them from their slumber. Thankfully the door had been designed as large as possible for their sake and didn't slide, allowing him to tip toe in with surprising finesse. Asterios may be a large berserker, but he knew how to move quietly. It had been a skill he picked up sneaking after his prey in the labyrinth, in hopes of making their end quicker and less agonizing.
At least it served a much better purpose these days, but it would hardly qualify him for assassin.
So enraptured was Asterios, he failed to realize how long he had spent in the salon listening to their first song over and over; Even if they said it was rough, it sounded perfected to his ears. He passed a quick look at the video intercom installed near the fireplace, noting it was nearly midnight. This was the latest he had ever been out at night without the other two being awake, so he endeavored to be as quiet as possible. Between Spartacus' snoring and Heracles' deep sleep, it was thankfully a rather easy task.
"We must free the oppressed…" Spartacus murmured in his sleep, forcing Asterios to hold back a chuckle.
Tiptoeing past their beds, he reached his own against the wall and slowly got in. If he did it just right, the pine would fail to creak. Slowly he eased himself into the fluffy red blankets as the prana candle on his bedside table flickered, taking pride in not making a single sound. Relieved at his success, he rested his head gently against the oversized pillow, even for him, and smiled softly. One blanket and pillow had been gifts from the Gorgon sisters after the older twins endlessly chastised him for being 'content' with simply sleeping on the floor.
'This isn't a labyrinth, dummy! Sleep with some self-respect!' They had spoken that one together. Medea had quickly showered him with quilted blankets to supplement it after Medusa informed her. He slowly became more comfortable asking for things from his blood and adoptive family members, though nothing too much. His Christmas presents were more than enough, even if he got them gifts too.
Wrapping the warm blanket around himself, he smiled softly and turned onto his side to face the wall. Slowly yet quickly, he glanced to the sleeping forms of the other large berserkers. He quietly reached into his large pillow, and pulled out a khaki plush toy. It was a rather large caricature of a Minotaur, which was still small in his hands, though it looked a lot more adorable than menacing. Googly eyes spun in their sockets as he gently played with it for a minute. He smiled and placed Euryale's personal Christmas present onto the soft blankets in front of him.
With one last glance, he looked to his bedside table. Flickering in the candlelight, he eyed the lone picture that was propped nearby. Unlike the large photo of the three berserkers in a glorious battle charge that hung above the door, this one was much smaller but warmer. Though the large berserkers could consider each other friends and comrades, it was the Gorgon sisters who often treated him as family. It was joined by another picture to the side, of him smiling beside his cousin Medea. He was happy for having those bonds, and it soothed his soul every time he thought about it.
He was going to spend some time helping his cousin and her friends tomorrow in the Clothing Department, so he best get a good night's rest. With a tiny smile, stifled only by a quiet yawn, he blew out the candle. 'One… two… three… four…'
Asterios, now wrapped in his countless blankets, soon began to drift off. Counting sheep was what the humans said to do, but he preferred to count butterflies. As each one mentally flew over a small creek in his mind, the sweet embrace of sleep took him. Soon he was softly snoring as the plush stood guard near his sleeping face. A soft smile on its sewn face matched the real Minotaur's almost perfectly.
The darkness that surrounded his slumbering form was pleasantly warm.