Club Cove was filled with cheer and good will. The disco ball was alight, spinning and scattering light across the room. Their merriness and laughter could be an affronting taunt to Solomon, a show that his plan raised no crippling dissonance. Celebrating the addition of their newest master, the Chaldeans mingled amongst voiceless music that boomed from the club's speakers. Some wandered in and out to the boardwalk where the buffet line was preparing dinner. Others found alternative means to pass the time while robots hovered around with tie-over appetizers.

Regardless of how Arjuna passed the time, he did so appropriately while upholding a proper image. After all, any and every glance could be scrutinizing his perfection.

Swirling the wine glass in his hands, the still battle-clad archer remained seated with perfect posture. Though the patrons around him at the club's bar were indulging in alcohol, he was content with his glass of sparkling cider. The golden liquid remained mostly untouched, with barely a hint where his lips touched the glass. Though he truly felt proud and happy for the third master, his expression remained neutral, and he remained satisfied with letting the party happen around and without him.

"I said I'll consider it, Medb!" "Do more than that! I'm serious about this! Really serious!" "Can I just drink in peace with Diarmuid!?"

Briefly, he glanced towards the nearest patrons who joined him at the aquarium bar. Many had changed into more comfortable clothes, and the two Irish lancers were no exception. The seat beside him had been previously empty, but it had been suddenly occupied by Medb in her skimpy white bikini. As her pestering continued, she clutched onto the sleeve of Cu's lime and coconut Hawaiian shirt, which in turn made him pinch the bridge of his nose with two fingers. His other hand's fingers drummed against the side of his blue board shorts.

On his other side, Diarmuid, wearing an ebony short-sleeved rashguard and jade trunks, signaled for Lex to refill both their drinks just as Medb left with a pout, only mildly satisfied. Content that peace had been restored, Arjuna turned back to his drink; Not that he had much intent on drinking it. Nearly ten minutes after he first got it, and he only took one measly sip while so many drowned in alcohol around him.

While he could just leave and skip dinner, the party was only just starting. As one of the servants Anishka confided in, it was only respectful he stayed and provide more kind words when a window allowed; Currently, she was being bombarded, and he did not wish to overwhelm her. However, he was not currently interested in socializing and preferred his solitude, so he found himself at the bar as opposed to a crowded table.

To pass the time, he had been gazing into the feint reflection endlessly like an unread novel. His own onyx eyes stared back at him endlessly for the past hour. His perfect, mirror image stood out vibrantly before him, piercing into him as he did the same with his gaze. Quiet in his trance, he stared into the glass and let the liquid slosh and swirl again while maintain his perfect poise.

Arjuna's judging eyes stared back from his own reflection.

¨·..·¨·..·¨·..·¨(¯ˆ·.¸ ¸.·ˆ¯)¨·..·¨·..·¨·..·¨

Fragment 64: What Do You See?

¨·..·¨·..·¨·..·¨(¯ˆ·.¸ ¸.·ˆ¯)¨·..·¨·..·¨·..·¨

"Thanks for your best wishes, but please give my disciple some room for now!" Rama's voice shouted from behind him. Arjuna did not wish to turn around, but he was curious.

Lights and movement swirled on the curved surface as he adjusted the glass slowly. He felt dismissal and discontent sail through him upon seeing Karna's reflection. Dressed once more in his formal black suit with red accents, he talked with Siegfried near his subject of interest. Finally, after a mental scowl, he positioned the glass to catch a proper glimpse of a large booth further away as the liquid swirled within.

The crowd was dispersing from the area for now, yet he'd have to wait further; That was fine, because he was perfectly patient. Anishka was at the center, still wearing her master's uniform since she had refrained from the early evening water activities. The other masters and some select servants were also seated, but he remained focused on her and her closest companions.

"Shri Rama… I really don't know…" Anishka started hesitantly as she stared at the glass of wine before her. "Maybe I should give it back to Gabby."

"I guess she just wanted you to really celebrate this rare occasion!" Rama swiftly surmised with a big, sympathetic smile. The battle-clad deity at her side chuckled while his newly arrived wife giggled in his arms. She sat in his lap so she could lean back against him, folding her fingers to lace with his as they rested fondly on her stomach. He chuckled, "But if you want to, just a sip is alright! It can be forgiven after all you've done! I promise!"

Sita squeezed his hand gently and smiled. "Rama… Please let our master decide."

"Yes, dear. Sorry." His response was so quick and absolute, Anishka broke into laughter. They too laughed happily, making his lips twitch upward with a barely discernible smile.

There was no question he was happy for them. Anishka, after becoming a master, had reunited Rama and Sita, and now those two were inseparable… almost literally; He had yet to see them more than a few centimeters from each other ever since the emergency procedure was finished. Rama had never looked more panicked than the moment after the masters introduced themselves and Sita began shimmering. Thankfully, Medea was quick, and the room had been vacated immediately to allow Nightingale and Scathach to get to work.

It resulted in the party being delayed by a few hours, but it was relieving that everything turned out alright.

Nonetheless, despite how genuinely proud and happy he was today, his underlying feelings lingered. His eyes narrowed as Karna retook his seat by Anishka, looking confused about what just happened. The newest female master informed him with a bright smile, making him burst into his own chuckles. It irked him every time he saw her being so friendly to his most hated rival. A frown formed on Arjuna's face watching the two in joyous company, and he cursed both them and himself.

This is not how a mentor should feel at this moment. He was supposed to be pleased Anishka had followed through with everything so well and diligently. She had made plenty of mistakes, but she strove to correct them quickly, so he could hardly fault her. Instead, it was tainted by lingering frustrations and rampant thoughts that scorned her for months. It was hard enough being completely happy for her here without those good wishes being tainted by how offended and tarnished he felt for her seeing…!

Arjuna let out a long exhale and swirled his glass, breaking the reflected image as he lowered his glass. His thoughts were not becoming of him yet he couldn't help it. He merely hid it and suppressed it completely, burying it within himself once more and scolding himself for letting those improper feelings suggest such cruelty and resentment. He couldn't truly destroy it, because as much as he tried to believe it wasn- No! He was not some envious person.

He was Arjuna, Son of Indra. He was the beloved hero of the Pandava brothers. He fought perfectly beside his blessed friend Krishna against the Kaurava army. By his hands, Karna, their only real threat, was laid low so they may win the Kuruksetra War without doubt. As expected of him, he was perfection incarnate, and always shined as such because he was born to be absolute. Nothing would ever remove that from the minds of all who witnessed his majesty.

… But nevertheless, as the warm cider settled in his glass, Arjuna stared at his stoic reflection for far too long as it glared back at him.

¨·..·¨·..·¨·..·¨(¯ˆ·.¸ III ¸.·ˆ¯)¨·..·¨·..·¨·..·¨

Like a star on a clear night, the distant arrow twinkled before it was swallowed by the snowy evening. Amid the abyss that embraced the Training Grounds, backlit only by Chaldea's distant glow, Arjuna stood in perfect poise by the sheer cliff. Glimmering before him, Gandiva was grasped in his hand as its string was pulled back once more. Snow fell around him, billowing in the mountain winds as he took aim. A pristine arrow formed within the drawn space, pinched by his fingers flawlessly before he set it free.

Illuminating the area with a crack of lightning, the arrow vanished on its impossibly fast trajectory. Like the last, it twinkled in the distance, striking a distant mountain perfectly where he aimed. Arjuna listened quietly in the silence of the follow-through, waiting for any hint of failure he knew would never come. With perfect motions, he executed the shot flawlessly every time, striking the same point without stirring an avalanche. It was a show of strength, precision, and finesse unrivalled: Perfection as a long-ranged marksman.

Focusing on the intricacies of his mastered martial prowess was one of his forms of meditation, and he needed it right now.

Drawing another strike, focusing on his objective, he continued to disregard the world and night's events. He had wished Anishka well, but wound up staying longer than he preferred. To make matters less ideal, he was seated beside Karna, though he did well not to show any discomfort; They had sat with each other plenty of times even if he never enjoyed it. Having already been caught once having a disgraceful but verbal confrontation with Karna, he did not wish to shame himself further.

Still, his discontent boiled beneath, threatening to burst lest he stay vigilant. Today of all days must not be tarnished, even if it quietly tried his patience like many events recently. He thought he had brought it under control, but weeks of working beside Karna to prepare Anishka had lit the wick anew. It sizzled and ticked, growing in strength with every passing day from one source or another. It was improper and unbecoming… yet it felt so very good to let it grow.

Arjuna let the arrow fly, silently reprimanding himself as it tore through the skies. The execution looked flawless, yet he knew something had been wrong. It didn't show on his perfect stance or flawless follow-through, but he heard it in the distance. The arrow struck where the others remained planted, but there had been a bit too much force. The snow cascaded in the distance, inaudible by most, but thundered in his mind as he grit his teeth.

Exhaling slowly, he lowered his bow slightly to renew his stance. He needed to start over from the beginning and- "Hey-o! You here for a surprise spar or something, hot shot?"

Barely recognizing the voice, Arjuna slowly turned around to stare at the newcomer. Backlit by the distant lights, he was almost a silhouette, but the archer could identify the man's formal battle attire and unruly hair. It was no longer rare for Hyde to be seen in Chaldea, but Arjuna had only encountered him thrice on brief occasions. Usually he was just going for a spar or trying out some new foods, so he held no interest in Jekyll's alter ego.

…Or at least he shouldn't have, yet he troubled him.

The berserker strolled up to the edge of the Training Ground to stand with Arjuna at the sheer cliff. His face was blank but his eyes glinted with inquisitiveness. He tilted his head, kept his hands in his pockets, and kicked at the snow by his feet. Arjuna remained quiet before Hyde rolled his eyes. "Holy crap… I may as well have said hello to a rock… No hey, yo, hi, fuck off, or anything? An answer maybe? Be polite?"

"I'm practicing my aim. If you feel I may intrude, I can find somewhere more suitable."

"Well, shit! Was that so hard?" Hyde grinned, but Arjuna's remained expressionless. Hyde sighed again and shook his head. "Right then… Guess I'll go talk to a rock while waiting…"

Remaining composed, Arjuna turned forward once more and restarted his focusing proces- Hyde's grumblings bounced into his ear. "Shit, it's not like he needs to try so hard to hide it or anything… What a stiff."

Like water spilled on his fingers, his concentration slipped from his grasp. Though his frustration welled, he turned back to Hyde as he walked away. "Excuse me?"

The berserker stopped and looked back at the expressionless archer. A smirk appeared on his face, and only then did Arjuna realize his eyes had narrowed ever so noticeably. "Well, well, weeellll! So you can show anger! That's great! I thought your emotions were flatter than that one girl from the geek division."

Ignoring the churlish comment, Arjuna regained his composure. The frustration subsided, but that didn't please Hyde. His smirk faded ever so slightly, only to return with a vengeance. Chuckling, he crossed his arms and chuckled. "Ah! Even after being caught you try to hide it, eh? What's the matter? Afraid a little bit of annoyance will lower you to my level or something?"

"I believe I'd have to do far more if I were to ever stoop that low," Arjuna responded evenly.

Hyde's sneered for a moment, yet it rebounded to a tiny smirk. "Ah… I see now. Never cared to look before… but you're one of those arrogant types who believe they can do no wrong or something, aren't ya, Arjuna? Makes sense since you're a prince and all that… but guess what, buddy. Everyone's got skeletons in the closet. I bet you're no different."

Arjuna remained a statue, but Hyde began approaching ever so slowly with a growing smirk. "In fact… you interest me a bit. You remind me of good ol' Henry back in the day. You know the story, right? Tried to get rid of little ol' me and look what happened… Voilà! Hello me! In full form!"

Though his expression was flat, his frustration grew with his disbelief. The berserker before him was raising a point far from his comfort zone, and it was not something he wanted to discuss with anyone. However, to say nothing would mean he would subject himself to this onslaught. To run would give him leeway in any future meeting, and so he stood his ground while keeping himself composed.

"I'll bet you're the same way, aren't ya? The brighter the shine, the darker the shadow… The perfect prince hiding a sinister secret? It's like something out of a shitty mystery novel!" Hyde proclaimed as he stopped a scant few meters from the archer. His smirk was all-knowing, and Arjuna wanted to wipe it from his face permanently. "So what's the plot twist? Oh, oh! Wait! Let me guess… Maybe you murdered someone innocent and you loved it?"

Incredulous and brimming with mounting aggression, Arjuna struggled just to keep his face firm and composed; He succeeded visibly as the seconds ticked by in aggravating silence. Even his eyes masked the firestorm threatening to turn himself and Hyde into cinders. All he did was stare blankly while Hyde waggled his eyebrows, clearly proud of his-

Throwing his head back, Hyde laughed hysterically. "Wow! Alright! Bravo! I gotta hand it to ya, Arji! You sure know how to handle yourself when someone twists your story like that!"

Arjuna allowed himself to scrunch his eyebrows in barely discernible confusion. As Hyde shook his head, the boorish man threw the last of his chuckles into the air and proceeded to walk away. "Well, shit… I thought I had you going there, but you're just another boring hero type. But hey, thanks for burning time with me so my buddies could show up! Try not to be so much of a stiff next time, Arji! It's only fun the first time!"

Even as Hyde walked away, Arjuna was a mental mess. In his current state, it would be impossible to calm himself, yet he tried. He would not allow this berserker to unknowingly get the better of him. The archer was raised and trained far better to allow that.

Nevertheless, he was still completely unnerved, whether joking or not, that Hyde had struck so close. The Mahabharata told his legend well, yet he knew the critical part that was improperly recorded. To the victors, history is written with promising tones, concealing parts of the grizzly truth. Despite how much fate had seemed to spin destiny that day, Arjuna felt and knew differently. Though the divines spun the thread, the Indian archer understood Karna's blood wasn't on their hands alone.

With mounting rage, Arjuna's concern escalated. His thoughts would spiral and twist with his growing malice, raising past experiences to the forefront of his mind to spur unruly thoughts further. This was the event he wished to mitigate; Thoughts and potential acts of temper-fueled immaturity that had no rightful place in a hero's personality. Often enough, at the worst of points, it even sounded like a second voice far removed from who he really was.

"Or maybe that's just who you really are, Arjuna."

Anxiety peaking, he needed a distraction. He needed to- There was laughter and distant chatter, coupled with quick footfalls. His anger rose to the point of dulling his senses, which allowed an armored former-gladiator to enter the area without his knowledge. Arjuna turned around with narrowed eyes as the big berserker happily strolled up to a snickering Hyde. After a brief talk, they held out hands, and Spartacus shook it eagerly... before suddenly sending him flying into the air. "Let us not waste time then!"

Hyde's silhouette flew high into the sky, tumbling like a pinwheel in a gale. His voice roared into the night, "You bloody buffoon! I said wait until Kintoki gets here!"

"Aha! But it is more fun to burn time while fighting!" Spartacus yelled as he repositioned himself underneath his falling form. "War waits for no one, tiny berserker!"

"For the last time, I'm not tiny you-!" Hyde flopped roughly into a thick patch of snow; At least Spartacus had been a bit considerate. Another battle-clad berserker's silhouette crested the saddle between the Training Grounds and Chaldea while the cackling gladiator happily hurled Hyde back into the sky. "Kintoki! Kintoki get over here and help! Henry will never let me have a night spar again if his body shows up bruised up for his hanky panky with Mordred!"

"Oh! I thought you were sparring and not playing catch?" The gold-haired man, with shouldered axe already glowing dimly, laughed heartily as his collared shirt caught the wind. "You need to lighten up on the taunting, Hyde! Karma was just about due to give you the golden treatment!"

After slamming into the snowy field, Hyde, looking rather healthy, shook his head free of snow and scowled in the low light. "I didn't even say anything bad to him yet!"

'Yet you said plenty to me, whether you meant it or not,' Arjuna thought bitterly. He wanted to calm his nerves, not ignite them further. It didn't help he felt a little bit of satisfaction seeing the berserker tossed around like a ragdoll, even if he seemed to recover fine from the activity.

Lifting his bow, ready to burn some lingering frustration, he readied it before hi- Arjuna stopped. The perfect, pristine Gandiva often shimmered and shined thanks to its polished flat surfaces, and it caught Chaldea's light in the distance like a net. At the angle he raised it, the bow became a mirror, and Arjuna stared at himself quietly. The anger lingering in his reflected eyes were palpable, and showed far more than he liked. Its glare burned into him.

However, his concern rested with that small smirk he wore briefly before he spotted it. Upon seeing his reflection, it had disappeared, but not from his mind. Clear as day in his view, Arjuna exhaled slowly and changed the bow's angle. Now it only shimmered with light as it reflected the darkness. Even if the berserkers getting into their spar behind him, he did not wish to give any possible windows for them to glimpse through.

Arjuna began his ascent further up the mountain, interested in suppressing the lingering aggravation before he returned to his room.

¨·..·¨·..·¨·..·¨(¯ˆ·.¸ IV ¸.·ˆ¯)¨·..·¨·..·¨·..·¨

Shimmering in its golden grandeur, the Ratha chariot came to a stop among the arid fields filled with battle. Ornate and intricate with every curve and design, the vehicle was one of few prestigious mounts amid the chaos. Clothed in armor and cloth that rivalled the Ratha in its splendor, the riders still appeared even more regal. More so than the driver, Arjuna shined with brilliant perfection countless Indian warriors had gazed upon.

All around them, the battle roared with its warriors' vibrant colors and contrasted by shades of death, yet his focus remained in the nearby. His sharp eyes remained focused on a distant Ratha as an elephant trumpeted in the distance. The roars of men caught in a cycle of duty and death followed their dharma flawlessly, yet they were a blur in the middle Pandava's eyes. Even the myriad of saturated colors that painted the clashing armies was dull and muted, dim at best compared to the lone light by the enemy chariot's wheel.

"An opportunity is present. You must take it, Arjuna," he heard a voice call out clearly among the chaos.

Across the way, Karna was attempting to free his Ratha's wheel from the earth. In a duller set of lighter armor and cloth, he was but a shadow in Arjuna's brilliance. Yet even still, in the Pandava's eyes he was blinding, more so than any he had ever encountered. Even without his blessed armor, Arjuna could feel he was an equal… No. He was better. He had always been better.

"He may take your brothers, Arjuna. You cannot allow this opportunity to pass."

Karna a threat beyond compare. At the tournament where he displayed his martial prowess, that man had arrived unannounced and surpassed his own skills. Though he was of an unfit caste and was mocked for daring to try and challenge Arjuna, he did not react. Karna had let it be, just like Arjuna had let him, his newfound rival, be insulted and jeered without raising a single word in protest of his treatment.

That had been the first of many signs of growing disbelief, mounting resentment… and rising envy.

No matter how hard Arjuna tried to meet his own promised expectations, Karna always seemed to surpass them without any effort or will to do so. The Pandava perceived his rival was perfect, and he far less so. But no, here on this arid battlefield, the divines had presented him a golden opportunity to make everything right. No longer would he have to live measuring himself up to a rival who achieved everything he couldn't without effort.

Finally, the exalted Pandava could rid himself of that which he hated most. "End this, Arjuna!"

Gandiva in hand, Arjuna raised the weapon. His charioteer slowly turned his gaze to him, but he paid no heed. He was a blur among the battle, with only Karna in perfect clarity. He did not see his charioteer's stunned expression as Arjuna drew an arrow, nocking destiny's hand so it may deliver a final message. Eyes sharp and focused, he stared at his rival's back as he turned around slowly to face him.

Karna's was expressionless as he looked over his shoulder. They stared at each other in absolute stillness as the battlefield around them roared with violence. His bow remained on the ground, and he made no motions to retrieve it. Arjuna, calm and composed, stared down Karna as the beating of his pounding heart deafened the flames of war. Still, the opposing man only looked to him silently with the same lack of visible emotion he always wore.

"Kill him."

The archer released his arrow just as Karna smiled softly at him.

¨·..·¨·..·¨·..·¨(¯ˆ·.¸ V ¸.·ˆ¯)¨·..·¨·..·¨·..·¨

The room lacked anything defining. By all accounts, his room was left as it was when he first arrived save for a few little things. There was a vibrant painting of an Indian elephant given to him by Anishka hanging on his wall. Rama had offered him an elaborate but small statue of Lord Ganesha the archer had secretly been eyeing; The only furniture it could rest on was the stock Chaldean table.

Lacking any decoration, Arjuna's room was plain, because he simply saw no need for more.

Sitting perfectly straight on the standard bed, Arjuna was a monument of contemplation. He had donned a simple white shirt and matching sweatpants after his shower, which did little to wash away the bitterness from earlier. He did what he could to vent his anger, and though it took longer than he'd like, most of his negative thoughts had vanished. However, alone in his plain room, his thoughts were allowed to blossom as they always have.

Frustration loitered in his mind, compelling him into a usual yet disliked position. Sitting on his bed silently, he stared at the ornate, silver box with gold etchings. Its cover lay discarded on the bed, shimmering perfectly with the golden bands that held the item within. On cerulean velvet rested the pristine artifact that was both his greatest shame and, remorsefully, a slither of pride.

Ethereal in design, the arrow's tip resembled a modern drill bit. Its polished silver made the golden designs of the cerulean cloth look dim. Coupled with the blue, ethereal feathers that would guide it flawlessly to the target when combined with his impossible skill, the arrow was a work of art. It was unusual, yet majestic as it shined under the bright lights of his room like it often did every night.

His hands remained underneath the box, supporting it on his lap as he stared blankly at his folly. Regardless of what the Mahabharata regaled, he knew the terrible truth. Krishna, his friend and Charioteer, had not been there to help guide him that day. If he had been, Arjuna may not have shamed himself so thoroughly yet unknowingly to his brothers and people. Had Krishna been by his side, guiding his words and reminding him of dharma, maybe his regretful thoughts would not have manifested into reprehensible action.

Yet every night, he reassured himself so he could sleep. He had not been wrong, for the divines had ensured it was meant to be that way regardless; It was not the first time they tugged the strings of fate in his favor. It was an immutable fact it would transpire, or so he wished to believe. Even so, when he slipped into the unreliable comfort of his dreams, sometimes it didn't end there.

Sometimes, he came face to face with a dreamlike manifestation of those darker whispers.

Though he didn't click his tongue in annoyance, his eyes narrowed as he released a shallow exhale. This was a routine activity to end his day, and a necessary task for his patience. Regardless if he wanted to look at the arrow or not, it was a reminder of what had come to pass. Allowing his eyes to milk the presence of the damning projectile, which had manifested with him, must be done to reprimand him for his mistake. As much as he wanted to forget it existed, it was his past, and a mental error he could not let happen again.

Slipping one hand out from underneath the box, he grasped the silver lid. Gently, he closed the ornate container, hiding the shame from sight. With a sigh, he got up and walked to the open closet that showcased a selection of necessary wardrobes for several occasions; To wear just his battle attire would be socially unacceptable. He parted the clothes to reveal a shelf behind them where he hid arrow.

There it would remain throughout the day, whether he was in Chaldea or not. He did not want that regretful item anywhere on his person, but he painfully accepted its existence. Slowly, he began the process of recollecting himself in hopes of maintaining his perfected grace for the following day. He was raised as promised perfection and brilliance, and he must never suggest otherwise through word or action.

Arjuna returned to bed, not quite satisfied with the day, but interested in doing better the next.

¨·..·¨·..·¨·..·¨(¯ˆ·.¸ VI ¸.·ˆ¯)¨·..·¨·..·¨·..·¨

Floating in an abyss, Arjuna felt his senses return to him. Weightlessness was the first concept to register in his mind while his eyes perceived nothing. Perfect blackness surrounded him only moments after falling asleep, yet it made him frown. Though he could not see his own hand if he were to raise it, he had been here enough times to know where he was. Acting as a window into his own mind, it was an interactive reverie where he felt all the sensations as if it were real.

'Hmm… so it's time to face him again.'

Weight returned to his being as his feet landed on something solid. A light illuminated him, but its source was unknown; It was as if he was a candle flickering in the dead of night. He looked down briefly and noticed he had form for the first time, and that he wasn't just eyes floating in this nocturnal world. Clothed in his familiar white with his silver quivers at his sides, he stood on a long, illuminated island alone in the sea of his mind.

Though confused at the new development, he looked into the distance and called out. "If you wish to talk, then talk. I do not enjoy these moments."

How could he? This was where Arjuna would speak to that disembodied voice… the urges and terrible temptations he always suppressed. It would reprimand him for his actions, as he would its existence, while conjuring images of those who influenced him. Those formed mannequins would remain motionless before him if only to convey the voice's point, which he would sternly refute. There would be no victory for either, and no relief for himself from the meeting. It would only be another painful, occasional reminder of his own secret problems.

Arjuna narrowed his eyes ever so slightly. There was still no answer amid the darkness. "Stop squandering peaceful rest. Speak."

Again, no answer. It was unusual. By now he would have been engaged in verbal fisticuffs with what he believed was himself. Though he acknowledged it ever since that fated day, he strove to do as he always had and condemned its existence. Buried within himself, his perceived darkness remained in check to ensure it would not direct him again.

Losing his patience, Arjuna called out. "If you won't speak, then show yourself!"

"…Arjuna?"

The feminine voice had been so soft and surprised, it thundered through the surprised archer; There were never any other voices but them before. Quickly, he turned to the source, but was met with blackness. He did not have long to wait. Born from the abyss, another light appeared and illuminated a visitor barely a meter away. Arjuna could not withhold his shock as a familiar white jacket with contrasting black straps glowed before him. Her skirt, leggings, and long hair were outlined with light, making his newest master stand out from the darkness.

Anishka turned to him with more uncertainty than he ever saw before. One hand was clasped to her chest as she glanced to him with swelling relief. "Arjuna… Oh fortune, thank you… I thought I was alone in this place… Wherever this is…"

Though he had covered his bewilderment before she looked to him, his mind ran the Olympics. He was used to his suppressed darkness conjuring up visuals to use against him, but this one moved where the others did not. This one spoke. For the first moving puppet, he would have expected Krishna or his brothers, or perhaps those who he's met in life like Hanuman… yet this mental realm chose Anishka for the first time. It made him confused, curious, and concerned, which grew when he noticed how unnervingly genuine her reactions seemed to be.

What worried him most was he could sense her magical energy presence.

"Arjuna…? Are you okay…?" she asked him as she breathed nervously. Her eyes were firm, and he could see how brave she was trying to be while her aura felt shaky and hesitant. This situation was bothering him further, but he did not let it show.

He only nodded to her briefly and finally answered. "I'm alright, Anishka. I should be asking that question of you."

Slowly, she nodded as they stood side by side in the silent abyss. There was no sound except her calming her breathing, while his remained in check. Looking around, unnerved that the voice had yet to say a thing, Arjuna slowly exhaled and drew her eyes to him again. "You shouldn't be here."

"I'm not even sure where we are…" she answered quietly as she glanced behind them. "I remember going to sleep after wishing Shri Rama and Shri Sita good night but…"

Though he stared at her confidently, he was already restless. This was an unfounded predicament from his mental realm. Remaining uncertain how, he was at least positive this was not some sort of illusion. Standing by his side, in this mental reality of sorts, was Anishka.

"Are you so surprised, Arjuna? Servants and masters share a unique connection… and you were always the most capable Pandava."

His eyes widened as the voice finally called out, causing Anishka to look around in shock. "Arjuna… that voice is…"

"Yes. I sound exactly like him, don't I? You would not be wrong, for you see, we are one, but you have me to thank for bringing you here. You're our special guest tonight."

Arjuna narrowed his eyes ever so slightly. "You are not me."

Silently infuriated at the voice, he beheld the answer he did not desire. In regular grail wars, servants and masters were linked to the point they may see each other's dreams. Due to Chaldea's unique system, the spiritual connection that allowed this was swamped. Hundreds of servants meant that these dreams often competed against each other and dispersed them completely; One would only see their own nocturnal fantasy.

Regardless, that connection was always present. Even if the days were gone when Gudao said he often glimpsed the pasts of his servants, one could rarely appear since they were bonded to the system. They were connected by contract, and while it could have been possible, he wasn't sure how a master could be pulled so forcefully to manifest in another's dream space. That didn't change the fact it happened.

Anishka, likely confused and worried further by his brief silence, gazed at him tentatively. "…I'm in your… dream? This isn't real?"

"I promise you, this place is real, otherwise I wouldn't be able to achieve my desire." That had unnerved both him and his master. He was about to talk, but the voice cut him off. "You see… master… You've seen far more of Arjuna than acceptable. He's done a fine job of keeping up a strong image until you came along."

'No…' He felt frozen, even as Anishka stared at him with growing unease. "Don't listen to him, Anishka."

That's what this was about. On that evening, he had been completely angry that Karna had bested him in a spontaneous spar of blades that day. He was only enraged further at the compliments the lancer received and the reassurances he got. He had stormed away, still angry, yet his malice slipped through the cracks on that rare occasion. He had mumbled his urgings to bury Karna in the next competition by whatever means it may be. He had chuckled menacingly and turned around…

…and saw Anishka looking at him in fear as he gazed at her with that smirk.

She had run off, and he had quickly gotten ahold of himself. That night, he angrily stared at that arrow for a long time before he could allow himself to sleep. Thankfully, Anishka never seemed to bring it up, though his frustration and shame for her knowing weighed deeply in his heart. Due to that, their interactions had been awkward at best until she had been deemed capable of becoming a Chaldean Master.

Which meant that the reason she was here was… The voice chuckled ominously. "It was convenient you were chosen as a master, Anishka. That makes our task of disposing of you easy and untraceable."

Voice hitching in her throat, Anishka took a fearful step from Arjuna. He raised his hand in an attempt to stop her, but it only made her panic further. "Arjuna! Please, no! Why!?"

"I'm not doing that, Anishka! Please trust me!" he called out desperately, with far more emotion than he ever showed to her. Though he cursed himself for losing composure, and realized his expression matched his own shame and open worry, he was relieved it had worked. Anishka stopped after her third step, but remained terrified. "Don't listen to that voice! I'm not going to kill you!"

"We are one, Arjuna."

"We are not! You are not me, and I demand you stop believing so!"

"I am part of you… and one of us is going to make sure she does not wake up from this dream… To ensure she will pass away peacefully in her sleep."

"I'm not killing my master!" Arjuna yelled at the darkness. He didn't care what he appeared like right now, for the voice had crossed the line. Anger permeated his soul for even suggesting such an act. Yes, he didn't want anyone to acknowledge who he really was, and feared more may learn his hidden shames… but he didn't wish to stain his hands with more treacherous deaths either. "I'm not listening to you!"

"You listened to me when I told you to strike down Karna." He could feel his master's eyes on him as his shame mounted.

Anishka glanced around her as Arjuna carefully stepped to her. She looked like a swimmer surrounded by a school of sharks. Gazing towards him with worry, her voice hitched. "Arjuna… Krishna? …Is that Krishna? But he sounds like you… and he would never-"

"Krishna… That was who guided him to take the shot, but our friend Krishna was not with us that day… But I was, and he refuses to acknowledge me… his improper feelings of hatred and discontent," the voice boomed in discontent as Arjuna clenched his fists. He closed his eyes, as if not seeing anything would grant him salvation. "I am the malice he tried so hard to deny… the loathing anger that only wishes to help him hide its existence. I am his Krishna… his suppressed darkness."

"…Like Hyde…?" Anishka muttered, but Arjuna did not respond. She was right. Many times, he had heard Jekyll talk about Hyde's existence, and his actions to remove any stain on his soul. It only grew worse, yet that had been a lesson far too late for him, who had done similar. Now it was its own will taken form, and a cancer to which he had no feasible cure. It was a demon that haunted his very being, yet it was an abomination birthed from his suppression of indecorous feelings a perfect hero should not wield.

How ironic that Arjuna tried too hard to be the perfect hero, yet he was now incapable of saving himself. At the very least, he could save her. "I refuse to act. I will not kill Anishka."

"…Then I'll have to do it myself." No! He would not allow that! Arjuna had to save Anishka however possible, even if he didn't know how! He had to get her away! Anywhere but here, but he had to get her to safety before this foulness managed something!

His vision was engulfed with a bright light as he instinctively dove for Anishka as she screamed.

¨·..·¨·..·¨·..·¨(¯ˆ·.¸ VII ¸.·ˆ¯)¨·..·¨·..·¨·..·¨

It felt like minutes before the brightness finally faded. Sound first came like whispers into his ear, a blur of soft noise he couldn't decipher. It became clearer as the surroundings did, and he felt someone shiver in his grasp. He heard her hyperventilating, and breathed a sigh of relief as he cradled the master in his arms. Satisfied as he was, he realized he was still in this dream state, which meant she was still in danger.

Clarity came into the world, and Arjuna felt himself frowning at the sight before him. Of course it was here. He wished to get his master anywhere away from the threat's reach, even if it meant this blood-stained battlefield. Yet it was quiet, without any other souls on the field except them. Discarded weapons and armor rested among the vast stretches of arid field, basking under a noonday sun with crystal blue skies. He could recognize this battlefield anywhere, and it was far more peaceful than he ever remembered.

Yet he could still hear the roars of ancient warfare that made his heart beat with excitement, thrill, and cruelty he secretly sought.

Anishka looked around as he held her before staring up at him. He looked down, and she blushed lightly. She was in a bridal carry, but Arjuna knew better than to ever call her a princess. She was a beautiful Indian woman, but more than capable of helping herself. Slowly, he lowered her so she could stand on her own. No words were exchanged, for his guard remained vigilant to protect his master; He was relieved she seemed at ease with him, even if he was not with himself.

"…Where are we now?" Anishka quietly whispered as a breeze tickled and fluttered her hair like a flag. He was about to answer, but she turned around slowly to face him. Her eyes wandered past his left, and her wariness was replaced with a surprised but knowing glint. Careful not to let her out of his sight, he took a step forward so he could stand beside her, then allowed himself to gaze at whatever caught her attention.

Onyx eyes narrowed in shame and discontent upon seeing the Ratha only a scant dozen meters from where they stood. It had to be that one… the one whose wheel was stuck in the earth. The charioteer and its driver were gone, like all the warriors of the war, yet he could still see his backside struggling to lift the carriage. He could still hear those haunting words of encouragement to take the shot, to which he followed.

Worst of all, he still perfectly pictured Karna's over-the-shoulder, forgiving smile as the fateful arrow soared towards his back. Anishka hesitantly spoke… "That's Karna's…"

"Yes. That is where Karna fell… and it's where you will too."

With perfect reaction, Arjuna spun behind Anishka to face the threat. To his relief, Gandiva appeared in his hands upon impulse, and an arrow in his other swiftly followed. He forged prana, drew, and fired, letting the thundering shot tear through the sky to counter the incoming arrow. After detonating at their meeting point with a storm of blue lightning, Anishka gasped as she remained behind Arjuna. He was glad she was not succumbing to battle shock, and staying as close as possible so her only servant could protect her.

"Pity, Arjuna… It would have been poetic for her to have met the same fate as one of the heroes she adores." The voice called out, but this time it was not echoing among an abyss. It sounded tangible, and far crueler than he wished. "Must you drag this on? You've already delayed enough by bringing us here… At least in the darkness, she wouldn't have seen the inevitable coming. You only make her end gruesome."

"I do not wish for her death at all!" Arjuna called out angrily. He quickly put his free arm around Anishka, spinning them in place so he could reposition his shot. He fired another swift, fiery bolt to counter yet another arrow. There was no breathing room as he was forced to repeat the process yet again, but this time with two arrows at once. Regardless, he was a storied hero, and he countered them flawlessly while keeping Anishka safe. "End this at once! Return her to safety! If you wish to fight, then I shall be your opponent!"

"My only qualm with you, Arjuna, is that you still cease to accept me." Yet another arrow, and yet another counter. It was a ceaseless, fatal dance, but he could not falter or his master would fall. Humanity would lose one of its beacons because of him. "Stop struggling and let her pass on."

"I refuse! I will repeat as many times as I must, but you will not take her life!"

The omni-directional barrage, which had only been increasing, stopped. Silence echoed around them. "…Even if she's seen who you really are?"

Looking up as a swirl of prana manifested before him, Arjuna saw him first. He narrowed his eyes in frustration, staring at the perfect mirror image that stood a few dozen meters away. Gandiva's counterpart rested in his hands, with another arrow charged and ready to fire. He could feel Anishka looking at the reflection before him, and he could do nothing to hide his shame. The manifestation of his suppressed emotions stood there, snarling at them with a visage he would never dare present. It was an image the heralded, perfect hero should never wear.

"…Anishka… Please do not look…" Arjuna exhaled regretfully. Though his voice held its usual timber, to himself, he sounded so vulnerable. He was, yet she remained in shocked silence.

"You always sought to deny the truth, Arjuna… that try as hard as you might, with all the blessings and gifts you've received, you are not the perfect hero you try to appear!" the mirror-image scolded. "Yet the one time I try to help you, you refuse my gift! Why!?"

In a flash, he vanished. However, Arjuna knew, and so he quickly aimed up and fired a new arrow. It countered the aerial strike flawlessly before he spun around and took aim again. Anishka moved swiftly, staying close to him yet out of his way. He would have smiled at her silent assistance, but he was concentrating. He could not let a single arrow from his swift-moving opponent get through his blockade.

The enemy appeared again, at the same distance away, far more chaotic than before. His snarl had turned to a sickening smirk, accompanied by a terrible laugh in his own tone. It burned him to hear it, but he knew why he showed it. His confidence was absolute that Anishka would not make it... but he'd prove him wrong on his honor.

Still, he cackled, "You could easily match me, Arjuna, but you're being held back! She will do nothing but restrict you and drag you down with her! She must die to keep the secret! Do you not agree with me? Do you not agree that I am not how you wish to be seen!?"

"I never wish to be seen with such cruelty and malice!" Arjuna yelled back. Both their bows were raised, prepped to fire a new arrow, yet they only glared at each other. "But I will not shame myself further! As a proud kshatriya, it is my sworn duty to protect her! As her servant, I will protect my master faithfully! If it means she's seen this reprehensible side… then I can only hope she keeps it secret!"

"Arjuna… Thank you…" Anishka whispered from the sanctuary he provided behind him as she placed one hand gently on his back.

Glowering in discontent, the opponent roared. "To think you would choose her over I… The Kirshna who helped guide you to the greatest bliss of your life!"

Despite his resolve, Arjuna knew the odds were against him. They were equal, as he said, but his resolve to protect his master put him purely on the defensive. He could not utilize more of his abilities, and it pained him to acknowledge that. As much of a hero as Arjuna believed himself to be, he could not win this fight alone, nor could he leave Anishka to her demise. Even so, he refused to quit, and he would not let 'Krishna' have his way!

They both drew their bows back, but 'Krishna' glared in surprise as Arjuna no longer found himself alone.

Against his pride, he tried yet again to will what he needed into existence… and he was answered. Anishka gasped as two figures landed beside her, and Arjuna didn't need to look back to know who they were; Even without their spiritual presences, proving they were just another whim in this mental world, there was no denying who had manifested to protect her.

Rama and Karna, battle-ready and weapons prepared to strike, flanked Anishka as both Arjuna and 'Krishna' kept their weapons aimed. He could feel both their gazes on him, yet he did not acknowledge them directly. Just the fact they were there was an admittance of his own shameful inability in this moment. He could not protect Anishka alone, as much as he wanted to… but they could.

"You sounded like a proper kshatriya, Arjuna. Well said," Rama complimented as his gaze remained steady.

"Entrust Anishka's protection to us." They were much better suited heroes to protecting their master than he could ever be, and he knew that. How else would they manifest if his heart did not somberly acknowledge it? "Go forth and end this. Free her from this trap."

They didn't sound like themselves, but that was because they weren't. That's why he felt nothing more. They were merely words echoing in this realm of what he believed they would say; Another false reassurance, yet one more tangible than the tarnished manifestation standing before him. They only spoke what the reassurance his heart wished to hear.

Staring forward at his mirror self, he gazed at everything that he had despised: The malicious cruelty that schemed and manifested into a sickening visage of himself. This is how he would really appear if he ever listened faithfully to his heart's grudges and laments. It was this image that he would never present to anyone, yet he knew above all else, this was part of who he really was. There was no denying himself, nor lying to Anishka about what she experienced, but he remained resolved.

How he would handle the fallout could be determined later, but this time, he had to suppress this manifested atrocity for more than just his sake alone.

¨·..·¨·..·¨·..·¨(¯ˆ·.¸ VIII ¸.·ˆ¯)¨·..·¨·..·¨·..·¨

Servants, robots, and employees were scattered in the Residential Area's hallways the following morning. To all, it was just another weekday, but to Arjuna, it had been a painful few hours. Even the final, victorious strike against his darker manifestation that broke the dreamlike realm did little to soothe his mind. He was so lost in his brooding thoughts, he didn't even care occasional passersby looked to him with mild curiosity.

Dressed in his battle attire, too shaken and troubled to go through the effort of anything else, he practically dragged his feet through the hallways. Though it felt that way, his posture was flawless and his expression uninfluenced. Though he always walked with regal purpose in his step, today he was far slower. While everyone else was headed to breakfast early, he was heading the opposite way to a different part of the Residential Area.

However, his shame and guilt were doing their best to slow or stop him from doing so. Regardless, he needed to.

The battle had been swift and increasingly one-sided with Karna and Rama's mental fabrications defending Anishka. He had fought with resolve as they voiced words of encouragement he wished to hear, letting him vent all his frustrations at his hated self. The manifested opponent had taken a beating, and over his defeated form Arjuna finally acknowledged its disgraceful existence. He was the Krishna he had tried to pass some circumstantial blame onto, yet in the end, it was only his suppressed envy, resentment, and disbelief which grew into something far worse.

Regardless if it were to manifest again or not, Anishka had seen all of it. She had witnessed his true side with a cruelty that knew no bounds. Her eyes had gazed upon everything he tried so desperately to hide, and he had allowed her to live and remember. Arjuna, her childhood hero, and an Indian legend known the world over, had followed his duty to protect her, but in doing so ruined his perfect impression without doubt.

Nevertheless, the consequences would be determined after he ensured his master's well-being.

Briefly, he looked towards Benkei and Ushiwakamaru as they turned a corner. They were engrossed in quiet conversation, and burst into laughter as they walked towards him. The rider's white yoga shorts hid the bottoms of her cerulean bikini. Coupled with Benkei's beige board shorts, white tropical shirt, and sandals, the shore would be their post-breakfast destination. Soon, they turned to greet him.

"Good morning, Arjuna." "Morning!"

Though he nodded back considerately and silently as he always had, he felt their gazes linger on his back as they passed. Though he couldn't see, they got to him. He unconsciously straightened his posture even further and corrected any hitch in his already flawless stride. Like clockwork, his instincts worked to leave a good impression, yet it only felt sour this morning. After that terrible incident last night, every gaze he got this morning felt as piercing as Karna's.

This was going to be a long walk if this continued.

¨·..·¨·..·¨·..·¨(¯ˆ·.¸ IX ¸.·ˆ¯)¨·..·¨·..·¨·..·¨

Whether he dragged his feet or not, Arjuna found himself in the master's section of the residential area. Almost all rooms remained empty in the long hallway. He could not even sense the other two masters, indicating they had left for breakfast with Scathach and Mashu far earlier than usual. That was what made his concern grow, for he could sense Anishka's presence still in her room. The stillness was causing his anxiety to spiral out of control.

Gabrielle and Gudao must have thought she was sleeping in, but he feared worse. Arjuna's steps increased, drawing curious glances from servants at the intersection behind him. He never rushed so openly; The archer didn't care. Swiftly, without even knocking, he went into spiritual form and entered her room.

"Anishka!" He reappeared swiftly, concern laced across his often stoic features as he glanced quickly towards the bed. Anishka laid there, with her blanket gently covering her curled-up form. He slowly approached in concern, but suddenly froze as his eyes caught movement and heard her moan gently. The body stirred, and he was swiftly filled with relief as the Indian master sat up on her bed.

Rubbing her eyes of lingering sleep in her lethargic state, she did not see Arjuna gazing upon her. He wished to look away, yet he felt compelled to look. One strap of her silky white nightgown was freed from her shoulder. Some static caused the cloth to cling tightly to parts of her body. Though her hair was an uncombed mess, she only glowed more in his eyes. He had always believed her as beautiful, but perhaps it was only the palpable relief of knowing he had not shamed himself further that made her dazzling this morning.

Suddenly, Anishka froze and dropped her hands before Arjuna could look away. Her face flushed to a red scarlet that could rival the morning sun in its majesty, but she quickly scrambled to hide herself under her blanket. As she scrambled to cover herself with the blanket, the Archer quickly spun around and mentally berated himself for staring so inappropriately. She sputtered, "Arjuna! W-Why are you in my room!?"

More relief filled him. Perhaps she didn't know or somehow didn't remember what happened. "I apologize for the intrusion. I was just ensuring you were alright. It is unlike you to sleep in so late."

Slowly lowering her blanket, Anishka's eyes peered over the blanket. She gazed towards her video intercom's screen and saw what time it was. Stunned once more, she blinked rapidly and rubbed her eyes, though the blanket remained a shield. She sighed, "…I overslept… I guess I didn't hear my alarm in that nightmare."

Arjuna froze again as guilt and shame walked into his heart and retook their seats. Slowly, yet carefully, he turned back to face her. She was covered, looking away, and seemed a little smaller as she clenched the blanket to herself. Since she didn't reprimand him for looking again, he inquired, "…Nightmare?"

With sympathetic shame now written on her face, Anishka turned back to him hesitantly. "…It was real, wasn't it? All of that?"

Options flew through his head. He could deny it. He could pretend it was some other force that had somehow dragged only them into its clutches. There was still a chance he could save her image of him, but there was the part of him that knew. Regardless, he wished to lie. He wished to-

Arjuna turned completely to face her but spotted a glint in his peripheral. Slowly, he gazed towards her full-length mirror by the bed. Within it, perfectly centered, was his own form in a flawless posture. His matching expression gazed back, and he felt like he was staring at 'Krishna' again. Those eyes that judged and scolded him pierced his form, and he felt vulnerable under its astute glare.

Despite what he hoped, he understood completely as he stared at the reflection. Quietly, he sighed and turned back to the worried Anishka. "…It was. That was part of me."

Reluctance and shame had clung to every syllable of the truth. Arjuna looked away from Anishka, reprimanding himself because he knew without doubt he was the only one to blame. Though it pained him to say it, the truth always hurt. "I'm not the perfect hero I always appeared to be… and you've seen that now. You've seen the grudges and laments I've tried so hard to hide… I understand if you no longer see me as one of your heroes. Thank you for at least feeling that way for a brief time. It made me content."

"Arjuna, no! You'll always be one of my heroes!" The lack of hesitation and overwhelming promise in her voice was impossible to mishear.

Arjuna turned back to her in open shock. "After witnessing all that, you still…?"

Blushing in slight embarrassment as she hid herself beneath her blanket. "It was unnerving to see that… but I understand why you would hide it. It… wasn't what I was expecting."

"It wasn't what anyone expected of me," Arjuna relented as he stared at himself in the mirror again. "It's shameful. I was never supposed to harbor these feelings. I was supposed to be perfect. Now you know otherwise… I don't understand how you still see me as your hero."

"…I don't see you quite the same." The confession struck him hard, and he breathed deeply to calm his mounting frustra- "I respect you so much more now."

That was definitely not what he should have heard. "What…?"

"I don't mean this in a demeaning way, but after spending the past year with so many heroes, I understand you're all human at heart," she began tentatively as she their onyx gazes intertwined. Slowly, she looked away embarrassed. "I think we all have some things we keep to ourselves… Things we're ashamed of. No one is perfect, but I admire you so much more after seeing how hard you strive to embody that."

"Yet I failed. I'm not the faultless paradigm so many heralded."

"…I don't mean disrespect, but maybe it's better that way?" Anishka offered quietly. He looked deep into her eyes with growing skepticism and confusion. "You're painting yourself like you're a demon, Arjuna… but you're not. What I saw didn't change that… You still protected me. You're still incredible to me! You're still a hero, and I'll always see you as my hero!"

Looking away, he was feeling a little better, yet his mind and heart were in turmoil. Accepting his faults was relieving, but his thoughts always returned to comparisons; Regardless if he wasn't as bad, he perceived himself even further from Karna. It didn't matter what he tried, he would always manage to judge himself against the Indian lancer. He was always so flawlessly perfect without trying, whereas he was…

He didn't know what he was right now. Confused, self-admonishing… He at least understood he was speechless, and found it impossible to try expressing his endless gratitude she still believed in him. This had taken him by such surprise that all he could do was stare at the smiling, reassuring master.

Arjuna glanced up upon feeling two divine presences approach the room. They came quickly, and he could hear the laughter of Lakshmi and Vishnu's avatars racing down the hall. Anishka turned to Arjuna as he did the same, frozen with uncertainty over what would come to pass. However, nothing happened. They were at the door, yet there was no beep of Rama's key nor a knock of any sort. From what Arjuna knew, Rama usually just... There was quiet mumbling outside the door.

"You win this time, Sita." "But you let me win, dear~…" "Oh? And what if I did, my beloved wife?"

After glancing to Anishka curiously, he turned back to the door and slowly approached. From their side, he made the door slide open to reveal the two battle-dressed servants with lips locked in a deep and passionate kiss. The saber had pressed his body against hers to pin her up against the doorway, but she was putty in his loving hands. Sita moaned blissfully as her hand roamed across his back. Rama chuckled in their loving embrace… all while Anishka glanced around awkwardly while fiddling with her blanket. Arjuna did not fare much better as he stayed quiet and looked anywhere but the reunited couple.

While a touching moment, it was something he did not wish to turn into a stage play.

The red-headed pair broke their embrace and finally glanced at him. They blinked upon seeing him, just as he stared at the rather curious condition of their hair. Was that a blade of grass he saw? Rama tilted his head to break his observations, "…Arjuna? You're here too?"

While he tried to comprehend how they failed to notice him, Anishka sputtered, "Are you implying you were fine doing that if it was just me, Shri Rama?"

Rama waved it off and quickly pulled his wife past Arjuna and into the room. "Good morning to you too, Annie! We went to breakfast but heard from Gabby you were sleeping in!"

"I was by accident…" she admitted before turning to the archer. "Arjuna thankfully came and woke me up."

The pair looked to Arjuna and nodded happily. However, they noticed him staring at their hair again. Confused, Rama quickly checked where Arjuna was glancing and spotted the blade of grass in Sita's locks. He chuckled and pulled it out for her to see, making her giggle in response. "I guess we didn't clean up properly."

"You slept at the resort?" Anishka questioned, to which they happily nodded.

"Well… It took a while to get Rama to stop apologizing for what he's done. After that, he showed me the flower field. It felt very nostalgic… it was just as beautiful as that meadow," Sita answered happily. She giggled as Rama warmly tightened his embrace. "We got lost in the moment… and…"

As if things couldn't get a touch more awkward, they did. Arjuna understood what part of the Ramayana they were talking about, and so did Anishka if her completely red face was any indication. Acknowledging his talk with Anishka was definitely over, Arjuna nodded to the couple with a tiny, congratulatory smile before taking a step into the open doorway. "Pardon me. I shall take my leave now that our master is awake. I believe it is safe to presume you two shall keep her company while she gets ready."

"You can come to breakfast with us if you want," Rama offered inquisitively as the door opened. Arjuna turned to him, and gave a quick shake of his head.

"I shall pass. I have more important matters that require my attention." Quickly he tossed a small glance to Anishka, who gazed at him with a tiny, reassuring smile and sympathetic eyes. He nodded to her quietly and gratefully. "I hope your morning remains pleasant."

Letting the door close behind him, Arjuna walked down the hallway with his regular, proud stride. The façade held perfectly, yet he was a new mess within. Anishka still saw him as a hero after all that, yet he could not. Humiliated and guilty, he only felt like a criminal for what he did, yet she was so ready to forgive and accept who he was. It was improbable and inconceivable, yet she was firm.

Arjuna needed more time to process this, and figure out just what others saw that he didn't.

¨·..·¨·..·¨·..·¨(¯ˆ·.¸ X ¸.·ˆ¯)¨·..·¨·..·¨·..·¨

After spending most of the day in his room in silent contemplation, Arjuna found himself at the end of the Marina's dock, waiting for the weekend buffet dinner to be prepared. He had skipped lunch and breakfast, and had not even burnt his confusion out with his archery at the Training Grounds. Instead, the archer had remained still on one of the lone stock chairs in his room, silently going over what transpired and its results.

The wooden docked creak with every passing wave beneath, though he stood perfectly balanced and straight in his semi-formal attire. Opting for something easy, he wore only a sapphire polo tucked into white slacks that held an amber tint as the sun approached the horizon. He stayed there, gazing out over the water in continued thought as the small boats gently bobbed nearby. Feeling particularly self-conscious today, he even felt the nearby swan boat was gazing into his soul; It was ridiculous.

After all those hours of deep thought, his thoughts and beliefs were still a mess. Even standing here alone with fresh air while everyone else mingled around the outdoor cafeteria didn't help, nor would the approaching servant if he had to guess. He quietly hoped they were interested in a nearby boat, but that didn't appear to be the case. Of course they had to walk near the end of the pier, but he was at least thankful this presence was not Karna's signature.

Glancing over his shoulder briefly, his gaze met the stoic and ethereal eyes of Geronimo. Like most on the weekends, he was casual, dressed in a long-sleeved black shirt with jeans; Arjuna was usually over-dressed in comparison to most. He nodded to the archer, and he returned the gesture, but the caster walked to the few steps farther to the end of the pier.

He quickly boarded one of the rowboats as Arjuna turned back towards the horizon. His business rested with the boat, and not him, leaving him to his thoughts once more… or so he thought. "The sun's light is beautiful in this place, yet they lack the spiritual reds of my desert home."

Ah… small talk. That was fine and acceptable. "I have not witnessed the light of the American Southwest, but I often hear they're majestic."

"Mmm… So you did not glimpse them once in the Fifth Singularity. That's unfortunate," Geronimo concluded as he searched beneath the seats of the rowboat for something. Arjuna hadn't strayed far in that singularity, and their only real encounter had been during his attempted assassination of Medb. It was brief, and he only saw glimpses of the proud and fierce Apache warrior. Though there was no animosity between them, there had been no real interest to converse beyond small talk either.

Geronimo found a small leather satchel underneath an oar, though a spur attached to it indicated it was for his friend. With prize in hand, he stood back up, but glanced towards the amber-basked, illusionary islands on the horizon. "I hope you see it one day. Nature's beauty in my ancestral home is worth witnessing."

"Maybe before the end of it all," Arjuna murmured quietly, though it caused Geronimo to look at him.

"Those words do not bode well coming from one of Chaldea's mightiest heroes. They would make spirits restless."

"I did not intend to sound pessimistic. We will save humanity, but what happens afterwards is unknown."

Nodding in acknowledgement, Geronimo stepped out of the boat. He chuckled drly, "I do not believe that will be the end of it all. There will always be evil where there is good. History repeats… In time, another will give audience to the dark whispers of their heart and act."

Arjuna turned to him, expressionless yet invested. "Then what does it take to remove that evil from the heart?"

"It is an impossible ideal, for they are born from human nature itself. It cannot be removed or suppressed, but it can be tamed." Geronimo came to a stop, pausing with sudden silence. His gaze turned to him, and Arjuna could see the countless experiences of the Native American coursing through his distant eyes. "Countless moons after I was born, I heard wise words from our chief… Imparted guidance that may help me explain, if you may give me the moment."

Without hesitation, Arjuna politely nodded to continue. "He spoke of terrible times, when much injustice had thrived. Our chief said, he too, at times, had felt a great hate for those that have taken so much, with no sorrow for what they do… but hate wears you down, and does not hurt your enemy. It is like taking poison and wishing your enemy would die. He said he struggled with those feeling many times, and only in time did I understand what he meant."

Before him was a man who had struggled with both. Arjuna, like many, knew his tale and thirst for vengeance after his wife and child were taken too soon. However, Arjuna never considered the contrast between the stories of the Bloody Devil and the indifferent yet composed man before him. His interest blossomed as Geronimo crossed his arms and stared off into the horizon again while motioning with his hands.

"It is as if there are two wolves inside me. One is evil… he is anger, envy, regret, sorrow, arrogance, guilt, resentment, inferiority, lies, and more. The other is good… he is joy, peace, love, hope, serenity, humility, kindness, acceptance, and truth. Sometimes it is hard to live with these two wolves inside me, who whisper me to action and try to dominate my spirit. These are the wolves my chief said exist within each of us."

"Then how do we know which will win?" Arjuna felt compelled to ask.

"…The one we feed wins." Suddenly, with a small smile, Geronimo turned back to Arjuna and chuckled. "It took me far too long to understand those words, but it has helped me back onto the trail. We all have paths to follow, and though we may get lost, one can always find their way again if they stop and look… but I speak needlessly. Such a magnificent hero would not need to hear as much. You're inspirational, Arjuna. It's why I was so upset seeing you fighting for Medb."

Geronimo nodded to the archer and began walking away with the satchel, leaving the archer with a light to grasp. Though his last words thundered through him, the unexpected tale provided him an answer. After all the countless guidance and blessings he had received in life, fortune still showered him further. The trepidation and laments of his heart were being rivaled by newfound promise.

All this time, he had been denying what was rightfully him while simultaneously allowing those feelings to simmer. Countless times he let those cruel views creep into his mind at every little resentment and dissatisfaction, only to attempt to explain it was just fleeting, circumstantial impulses that would be discarded. It was no wonder it had taken a voice when he had been hypocritically refusing its existence yet fanning the fires of bitterness.

Though he had much to think on, he turned to look at the retreating figure and called out, "Geronimo."

Curious, the Native American warrior looked back. There was a pause of hesitation, but the archer found his voice, "You're wiser than you humbly admit. I would be interested in speaking with you more often."

The caster smiled back and nodded, unaware of how much he helped him only moments before.

¨·..·¨·..·¨·..·¨(¯ˆ·.¸ XI ¸.·ˆ¯)¨·..·¨·..·¨·..·¨

Barely three days later, Arjuna was filled with a little more energy in his step. Walking to the range in his battle-attire, he nodded politely to any who greeted him as he passed, both servant and employee alike. A robot passed by, eyeing him curiously, as did an employee who passed, but the stares felt different today. They were the same as they always had been, but his mind did not perceive any illusionary judgement.

His steps felt lighter after so many sleepless nights analyzing himself and coming to terms with what was. He had accepted his poor qualities, and acknowledged that it was by his error they were allowed further ground. They would always be with him, but he could tame it as Geronimo suggested; To suppress them would be to corner a wild animal, forcing it to fight back. Arjuna had merely been handling his problems incorrectly.

However, his new resolve had never been put to the test until Karna paused at the intersection.

He sensed his presence many times, but had actively avoided him as he found new ground to stand. To his relief, Karna seemed to do the same until now. Their eyes met, and he could see the gears turning in his head as his gaze tore through him. After pausing in consideration, the lancer began his steadfast approach. Walking in the center of the hallway, it was obvious his rival's was finally piqued and a confrontation was unavoidable. As he approached, he stood out among Chaldea's pristine hallways with his vibrant red sherwani and cream-colored pants, but he would stand out anywhere to Arjuna.

Placing himself to the test, Arjuna walked towards the source of all his consternation. He was the one who sparked all those terrible emotions he attempted to suppress. This lancer was the only one who could match and surpass him during their time, and he did so while fortune frowned upon him. With all his blessings and gifts, Arjuna's bright star seemed dim compared to the supernova that was Karna, who was born from nothing and promised little... It wasn't fair, and he loathed it.

However, unlike many times before, he didn't suppress those feelings. They had shamefully leaked out a few times, especially in their first night, but today he would not suppress them. He would allow himself to feel them, but he would not feed it. They would be acknowledged for what they were, yet he was going to make his first step down a new, promised path of higher expectations. This time, these expectations would be met without doubt.

They stopped before each other in the center of the hallway, and early-morning goers who needed to pass began to form blockades. It wouldn't be long before another Peacekeeper was signaling a possible confrontation, for even if they were usually civil, there was no doubt the two were rivals. Despite this, Karna's calm stare gazed into him silently as seconds turned to minutes.

After stealing himself for days and arriving at the final truth, Arjuna allowed his eyes to narrow ever so slightly. This was his opportunity, and he would meet it properly. He did what he had never done before, and spoke honestly, "The amount of resentment I hold towards you is impossible to weigh. I, an exalted and celebrated hero of my people… felt smaller in your presence. Since that tournament, my obsession with you had grown, only to increase my shame."

Karna's eyes had widened visibly at his quiet admittance, made soft enough the increasing number of onlookers could not hear. Still, he let his eyes narrow even further. "…I hate you, Karna. I hate you more than I can properly express… but it's because I'm jealous of you. You're perfect. I'm less so… and I can never accept that difference between us."

He said it. The underlying fact of all his disappointment and lamentations was now openly exposed, and he didn't even care if other servants had possibly heard. He was done suppressing his feelings. If doing so meant igniting that wildfire that threatened his master, then he would gladly choose this stain over failing his duty as a kshatriya and Heroic Spirit of Chaldea.

Without anything further to say, but feeling much lighter than he had expected, he slowly walked past the surprised Karna. As the onlookers waited for them to clear the area first, in case things heated up, Arjuna recomposed himself as- "You don't give yourself enough credit, Arjuna. You are also perfect… you just tried too hard to see it absolutely."

The archer stopped, and the anxiety in the crowd likely rose. Turning back slowly, he met that piercing gaze he hated so much as Karna continued, "To have admitted that so openly… You've come a long way, and are already taller than you believe for it. I look forward to our healthy rivalry from here on."

Confused at what the lancer perceived, Arjuna was silenced as Karna smiled towards him with that same smile he wore when he released the arrow… No. That was wrong. This smile was just a little bit bigger and shined even in his eyes. "I'm glad you've found your way, brother."

Quietly, Karna began walking away after their brief exchange. They never did share many words between each other, but when they did, they echoed in his thoughts for hours. This exchange was no different. Though he was confused, and even a bit frustrated that he handled his whole admittance without even an ounce of offense… he felt lighter.

Arjuna watched as Karna disappeared past the few onlookers by an intersection. There was no second glance or gesture, nor any noise to break the silent hallway. His rival would forever be the only person he would constantly measure himself to. He would remain the source of his envy and resentment that would instead fuel him to better himself rather than curse and whine at the difference… but when he finally closed the gap, he would also, somehow, make amends for the vile act committed against his older brother.

…His new resolve swore that much.

¨·..·¨·..·¨·..·¨(¯ˆ·.¸ XII ¸.·ˆ¯)¨·..·¨·..·¨·..·¨

An ethereal arrow struck a target, followed by another. With perfect precision, Arjuna tore through his targets with composed precision. With only mild, lingering uncertainties weighing him down, yet far less than he usually felt, he executed each traced target at the Shooting Range with composed ease.

Next to him, the Persian legend paused to look at him. Though his self-conscious tendencies inferred worse, he believed otherwise. Unlike the previous days, filled with uncertainties and presumptions, his mind was pristine water with few ripples. Arash smiled, making Arjuna pause and look to him. "Yes?"

"Oh… Sorry. You just seem to be in great spirits today," Arash chuckled as he lightly waved it off. "You seem bigger somehow, if you get what I mean."

Though surprised, Arjuna allowed a tiny smile to slip onto his face. "…I guess I am."

Spinning an arrow playfully, he smirked at the Indian archer. "If that's the case, how about some friendly competition? All this time in Chaldea and we've never crossed bows!"

Arjuna felt his competitive urges rising, which he would usually put down for fear of showing something uncouth. However, the events days ago, and long sleepless nights of further thinking, he believed otherwise. Born from the whirlwind of events that sundered his previous beliefs, he felt new confidence. Even if only an inch, he dared to present a very rare yet subtle smirk for Arash, who looked at him in surprise.

"I take all challenges seriously, Arash. Will you be able to keep up?"

To his delight and relief, Arash smirked back quickly. "Ah… secretly thrilled with competition, are ya? Great! I wanted to see how I faired against a serious Indian legend!"

Feeling even lighter and more excited, Arjuna allowed himself a light chuckle as he nodded back. "Very well. I look forward to this."

Even before the first arrows were launched, today was already proving to be a start of something more promising. Though it was a bit uncomfortable, he looked forward to what lay ahead. If one person had accepted him at his absolute worst, then the rest may still see him just as highly even for showing occasional slithers of doubt. Had they not still believed so after his outburst against Karna on his first day?

It had become increasingly clear he had been too critical, and seen too black and white. He didn't need to suppress everything, but he would maintain his composure justly. There would be no more irrational fear for what others perceive, and he would not allow himself to succumb to such disgraceful schemes and cruelty again. For the sake of the first person who believed in him completely, he would find his new perfection and pursue a life free from heavy expectations and conforming to an impossible image.

Before more steps were taken, though, Arjuna still had one thing left to do: He never did offer proper gratitude to Anishka.

¨·..·¨·..·¨·..·¨(¯ˆ·.¸ XIII ¸.·ˆ¯)¨·..·¨·..·¨·..·¨

The next day, the snow fell gently, for the storm had passed outside and in his heart.

A white vest, tie, and matching slacks were paired with a black formal shirt, a combination he had never done before. He had even combed his hair to look just a bit more proper for his requested meeting that afternoon. Walking confidently, he strode through the windowed hallway towards Salon de Marie while catching some curious glances from those he passed. There was no doubt he looked presentable, and even dashing if he allowed himself to boast. On the other hand, he knew most of the glances were for the curious blue paper bag he held.

To save time, he had contacted Anishka through the mental link most preferred never to use in Chaldea unless it was an emergency. He did it to find her quicker, and also in hopes he didn't bother her at an improper time; He was glad to know she was willing to meet. It had been days since that revealing conversation that morning, and they had only made small talk since. However, it was not because she was afraid of him; She still smiled genuinely to him whenever they passed. It was simply a matter of her schedule being busy.

There had been only three supply sorties, but they had run a little longer than usual. Besides that and days worth of only summoning craft coins, the masters and Chaldea's heads had a few private strategy meetings regarding Chaldea's defenses. Free time had been a touch scarce, but that was only the usual for the middle of the week. Resolved not to waste any of her personal time with this meeting, he entered the doors of the salon and looked around.

The uniformed staff bustled about, likely getting some things resolved before Marie's sacred tea time. Mozart played at the piano and chatted with Phantom of the Opera, who sat nearby in a black tuxedo with his cello. As their music filled the room, Gilles, writing down tonight's dinner on a chalkboard by the door, nodded to him politely. Arjuna returned the gesture before glancing towards the bar, where Sanson was cleaning glasses while Marie and Mata Hari were talking pleasantly on adjacent stools.

Pausing their conversation, the French Queen in a frilly, crystal blue sundress waved to him happily. "Hello, Arjuna! You looking rather handsome, non? Meeting someone?"

Movement in his peripherals by the window caught his attention momentarily. He glanced over and saw Anishka sitting at one of the window couches. She smiled to him, and he quickly glanced back to Marie. "I am, and it appears I've kept her waiting. If you'll excuse me."

He quickly walked towards her, passing by Mozart and Phantom as they quietly eyed him. He paid them no heed, nor did he give any attention to Marie and Mata Hari, who were now whispering excitedly to each other as he approached the couch. Anishka stood up, letting the diffused light from outside, coupled with gently falling snow, present her like an angel. She wore a cream wrap dress with a vibrant sash that matched her bindi, but it only looked more beautiful in the lighting.

He found his eyes lingering on her a touch too long as he rounded the couch, so he quickly spoke, "I'm sorry for keeping you waiting, Anishka. It was wrong of me to presume-"

She giggled and cut him off. "It's fine, Arjuna. I came early. I was only studying and wished to take a break."

Quietly, she took a seat back on the couch, and he followed suit after she nodded. As he placed the bag by the coffee table, he gave a respectful amount of space, but they still sat close together, making the girls' gossiping increase in ferocity, though they could not likely eavesdrop with Phantom and Mozart playing together. Neither seemed to notice as Anishka gave the archer a worried smile. "It's been a few days… Are you alright, Arjuna?"

He couldn't keep the small smile from his face. After dealing with all that, she was asking if he was alright when he should be the one ensuring she was fine. "I am… and thank you for keeping the secret."

"You don't need to thank me. I'm great at keeping personal secrets," she offered. They paused as D'Eon quickly skirted over to them, offered two glasses of water which they politely declined, then walked off. Quietly, she asked, "Is this what we're meeting about? I think somewhere more private would be better if…"

Anishka trailed off as he shook his head. "Partially… We left off on an incomplete note, and I wish to change that… I've been doing a lot of thinking over the past few days about what happened. I've found some answers to many problems I've kept to myself, and I owe it to you for making it possible."

She smiled gently. "I'm just happy I was able to do something for one of my heroes when you've already done so much for me. Between us, I'm the one indebted."

"I believe otherwise, but we may argue about this forever," he stated, and they both shared a small chuckle. He looked at the bag as Mozart and Phantom started a new song, but he had more important things on his mind. "I have something I wish to show you."

Taking a slow breath to compose himself, he reached into the bag and pulled out the ornate silver box with gold etchings. He paused momentarily, staring at the vague, shimmering reflection that stared back at him. He looked to Anishka as she whispered, "…Wow. Even the wrapping is beautiful."

"…But what lies within is not," Arjuna shamefully admitted, and she clearly heard it in his soft tone. He opened the lid, and finally dared show someone else the dreaded arrow. Confused at first, it slowly donned on Anishka as he gazed into her eyes. "This is my greatest shame… A testament to how far I am from being the perfect hero so many expected me to be. I've stared at it every night since I've arrived."

He allowed her to look at it quietly, though she made no move to touch it. Her eyes were sympathetic and glinted with compassion and sadness; He appreciated it. If it were Gudao or Gabrielle, they may have understood, but they would not feel it as completely as someone who revered him since childhood. Slowly, he made her gasp as he gently moved the box towards her lap like an offering. Shocked, she gazed into his eyes that held no hesitation.

"I want you to have it, Anishka… Though it does shame me whenever I see it, I have you to thank for making it less painful. Your acceptance of my darkness means more to me than you may understand. I want you to keep it as a symbol of my trust… that I will believe in you absolutely as you do for me."

Speechless, she gently took the box from his hands and stared at the arrow. He saw her eyes milk it further, letting his words sink in as a smile slowly grew on her face. She gazed to him and giggled shyly. "…Thank you, Arjuna. Though I'm uncertain how I can, if I could help you more, please ask, and I'll do my best."

"I have no doubt you will, master." He allowed a small chuckle to escape his lips as he slowly slid himself off the couch. She was confused at first as he knelt by her, but she quickly sputtered in total shock as a bright flush consumed her expression. She squeaked in surprise as Arjuna reached down with one hand and touched her bare foot where her glossy white heels didn't cover. With the same hand, he touched his forehead and then his chest and offered her a small smile.

It did nothing to diminish her scarlet blush or her quivering hand. "Arjuna! T-That was-! It's only for-!"

"For showing deep respect to those that matter, which you are to me," Arjuna answered as he retook his seat. "It is my last act in my promise that I will never let this darkness consume me again. I will use my flaws to better myself, rather than bury me further… and I owe it all to you for that, Anishka Sharma."

In the silence that followed, Arjuna stared with a gratuitous smile while Anishka covered her face with embarrassment. As he waited for her to regain her composure, he listened to the song again, recognizing it as one of Marie's favorites. It was a song that had something to do with a thousand years, and he only knew this because Marie would sing it fairly well whenever it was played. She would likely have been now, but after a quick glance, he noted she was missing from the bar.

Though Arjuna and Anishka didn't look, Sanson stared dumbfounded at the sudden muffled squeals and wild, girlish chatter emanating from the kitchen; Neither Arjuna nor the newest master had seen Marie and Mata Hari run within to share their growing excitement. Sanson shared an amused expression with the playing musicians while Gilles and D'Eon laughed by the bar. Coupled with the musical serenade, it was clear what the salon's staff believed was happening.

Scarlet still kissed her cheeks as she lowered her hands, but it was coupled with a bright smile the master couldn't hide. It made Arjuna's own grow. "If my parents were here… oh, goodness… no one will ever believe me. Thank you, Arjuna. I… I'm so speechless right now."

"I meant every word."

"I know… it just feels a little heavy, that's all," she giggled in jest, and he chuckled freely; To him, they sounded like golden chimes as her bright smile lit his day further.

"Then I'll help you carry the weight, as you've done for me. If there is some way I may help you, Anishka, please do not hesitate from now on. I am indebted to you."

"…Are you trying to keep me flustered?" she responded, and they shared in mirth once again.

He smiled. "No, master. I'm just being honest, though I hope I haven't taken up too much of your time."

"Oh… forget the studying. There's no way I can concentrate after all this," Anishka admitted with a giggle. Hesitantly, she eyed him but smiled warmly and asked, "If you owe me… then can I request we talk? I want to get to know the real Arjuna since we haven't talked nearly as much as I hoped… Can we?"

"…As you wish. I'd be glad to, though I hope we avoid some of the more uncomfortable topics," Arjuna quickly responded, still with a smile of his own.

They both smiled more as she nodded to him politely and respectfully. "Wonderful! Thank you, Arjuna. Let me place this away first. I don't think you need to look at this any longer."

"…I guess I don't." Though they fell into silence as they smiled at each other briefly, it was one of the most comfortable pauses he had ever felt.

While allowing her to regain her bearings as she gazed at the box once more, Arjuna glanced outside the window. The snow fell gently, and even the distant mountains stood with minimal haze. The clarity of their darkened surfaces, coupled with the brighter, warm interior of the salon allowed the window to reflect. He could see D'Eon moving a table to the piano for tea time while Anishka placed the lid on the box with a glowing smile.

More than anything else, his eyes stared at his own reflection. His posture was perfect, and he looked incredibly clean in his chosen attire. Like many times before, onyx eyes gazed into his mirror image and examined what remained unseen. Critical and analyzing, it observed the person who appeared within his view and gauged what was. For the first time for as long as he could remember, Arjuna looked forward beyond those imperfections and saw what was no longer out of reach.

Arjuna gazed at his reflection with acceptance, optimistic for the promising individual he finally saw...

...and his reflection proudly smiled back.