"Medusa! Please calm dow-!"

"This is between me and that goddess, Anishka! Stay out of this!" The reply hissed so fiercely, Anishka flinched back in surprise.

With the library's peace thoroughly shattered, the master could only stand by the front desk and glance apprehensively between the two servants by the doorway. Helena and Hans stared from just over one of the bookshelves at the room's center, but only watched cautiously; It was unusual for Medusa to lose her temper, or even break the library's rules at the same time. No one wanted to intervene, especially not Shakespeare, who sat at the front desk. With a small grin, the man in an emerald business suit was hidden behind his notebook as he scribbled away with new inspiration.

At the doorway, Medusa towered over a pile of accidentally dropped books; They fell from surprise, but now she visibly shook with anger beneath her black turtleneck sweater and jeans. Her hair moved erratically in serpentine motions as prana leaked from her form. Behind her eyeglasses, her eyes glared with the intensity of a phantasmal, yet the receiver only stared back with mild concern.

If anything, Chaldea's newest arrival appeared disappointed, and even beautifully sad. Her violet hair cascaded just past her shoulders and nearly blended with her ornate, traditional Indian dress. The royal blue garments and their silky golden accents were matched by the loose saree that fell over one shoulder, but did not hide the slim, slender arms covered with jewelry. One could even catch glimpses of her legs through tall slits of her dress that hugged her form almost tightly. Even in her uncertain state, she radiated a divine, warm bliss that failed to reach the rider.

Goddess or not, Medusa was terribly offended. Her voice fell dangerously low. "How dare you, Parvati…"

"Miss Medusa…" Parvati, with one hand raised before her chest subconsciously, stared back with divine, violet eyes. "I'm afraid I don't unders-"

"You're supposed to be the gentle and nurturing aspect of Shakti! But your first act was to put an innocent girl in danger!?" Parvati flinched lightly under Medusa's roar, and only Shakespeare's frantic writing fought the silence. He paused and looked up as the rider took a step past her books, causing Anishka to take a inch forward. Medusa immediately turned her gaze on her, and the master froze instantly. She locked her anger back to the target. "Why…!? Why do so many divines always have to play with humans like they're just conveniences!?"

Parvati glanced around, both unnerved and now growing with concern. Her heart whimpered at the ferocious display from a familiar, cherished face. Yet, from the extra memories of her circumstance, more of her wanted to help… She desperately wanted to set things right, more for her innocent host than herself. "Please understand! When I was summoned I wasn't told this would happen! I wouldn't have wished to be a pseudo-servant!"

"It's too late for your apology! You've already put Sakura in danger just by-!"

As her heart beckoned her into action, she called out what felt right... A single name among many her host cherished. "Rider! Please stop!"

Parvati wasn't too sure if calling out the familiar title, which resonated from her mind and soul, would work; To Hans, Halena, and Anishka's relief, it did. Most of Medusa's anger was blown away by a sudden gale. It was traded for shock and the tiny slithers of nostalgic hope in her square pupils as her arms fell limply to her sides. Like the activation of a command spell, Medusa's confrontational approach fell to just a smoldering wick on the former bomb.

With a breath of relief, Parvati silently gave a warm thanks to Sakura as Medusa's gaze lightened. Troubled, perplexed, and even uncertain, the rider's conflicted expression urged Parvati to approach and speak. "…I'm sorry. I wouldn't have done this if I knew it would bring pain and frustration."

She smiled gently and made the rider falter further. Her next act was an uncertain song that rang with worry among the many memories and feelings held by her host; Those sensations were now a part of her completely. Even so, she was a kind goddess, and she acted according to her will and desires. Medusa stiffened as the shorter woman reached her, only to gently wrap her arms around the rider. "…Parvati…!?"

"I'm sorry for causing you such heartache, Rider…" She softly rubbed the taller woman's back like a mother would a child. Gradually, she felt Medusa's tension fade away, even if open disappointment and uncertainty fought the slowly rising tide of relief and satisfaction in her eyes. "…As proper of a blessed goddess, I'll do everything in my power to make things right by you for this offense… You have every right to be angry at me."

Medusa shook once more, but she seemingly relented. Parvati smiled as the rider's voice fell to an acquainted, quiet whisper. "…Do… you mean that…?"

"I promise. This heart of mine only wishes to heal itself and others."

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Fragment 79: Heaven's Heal

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It had been a whirlwind of escalating expectations ever since Parvati arrived. To be greeted by a crying worshipper who felt blessed to call her here had set the tone for her tour; It was only a shame Gabrielle had to run off half way through to help some servants with some sort of mess. That had been the only little incident in her otherwise wonderful first glimpses of a lively community that sang with a happy brilliance Parvati could compare to the heavens.

Even with the recent confrontation, which she hadn't expected, her optimism remained high. She'd been told of who else would know her host, but fears and worries didn't cripple her. If anything, the pained memories of her host's timid heart resolved the nurturing goddess to action: She would set things right without delay, but one step at a time. That's why she was happy she was already walking through the first concerning door for her host.

"…Then the throne never truly informed you properly..." Medusa sighed.

She shook her head apologetically. "I'm afraid not… the bodiless voice only declared that I had unique circumstances that needed to be met before I may manifest. I was only asked a second time whether or not I still wanted to accept the summoning."

"I see… Then it's similar to what Ishtar heard," the rider mused lightly as even more of her tension slowly faded away.

Ten minutes into their first conversation, Parvati had slowly guided both of them to even ground as they sat at a pair of library couches with Anishka. The rider had taken a small break from her duties after a quick apology to her coworkers. They let her have it instantly, even though Hans grumbled at their need to prepare shelves. Supposedly there was a lot to do today since the first full shipments from their curious UN allies was slated for this afternoon; There was a large book consignment coming with countless servants' personal orders.

Even so, it was a break well spent on a busy day, for Medusa's expression was now far more placid, much to Anishka's relief. The rider stared lightly at the goddess across from her, who kept her hands folded on her lap with a reassuring, apologetic smile. "Once more… I'm sorry, Medusa. If I had known properly, I wouldn't have gone through with it. I just wanted to do my part to help humanity with my own hands."

"…Yes… I can see that now. I can tell you're not lying." Medusa glanced away again in a rare show of shame. Parvati's smile only grew a bit at a tiny twitch of the rider's lips. "…You're apologizing a lot too. That's… just like her. Sakura was always far too kind and caring."

"We've always theorized the throne chooses hosts based on their shared qualities," Anishka offered quietly. "If that's the case, Shri Parvati's host must have been a wonderful woman."

Medusa's lips twitched upwards again, but this time it stuck fondly. Parvati felt her heart swell just seeing it, and the feeling only blossomed in the fertilizing warmth of the rider's quiet tone. "…She was. She was a beautiful girl who deserved far more than she ever got."

"You did everything in your power to help her because you cared," the goddess confirmed, and re-earned Medusa's calm gaze. "She appreciated it from the bottom of her heart. You were one of the little lights in her days… I'm sorry it can't come directly from her, but I hope you understand that."

The once-more unreadable Medusa nodded slowly with appreciation. Seconds paused as she seemingly tried to find words, and then her soft voice delivered, "…I didn't know how much I needed to hear those words. Thank you, Parvati… and… I apologize for my outburst earlier."

Parvati only giggled, making Medusa stare at her in surprise as she waved it off. "You were only acting on your feelings, Medusa. That's something I could never be upset about… love is a powerful and nurturing emotion that brings out the best in people. If there's anyone who should be apologizing, it's me."

"You already did…" Medusa pointed with a tiny smile again, and Parvati giggled with a hint of embarrassment.

"Ah, I did… I'm sorry abo-… er…" Parvati blinked, and to the goddess' delight, the three of them giggled lightly. Medusa's gaze was nostalgic and warm, and Parvati could feel her heart swell fondly for the mighty servant before her. It whispered to her, and urged the goddess towards a hopeful bridge that may still stand over pristine waters. "I still wish to make it up to you however I can, Medusa… and maybe even become friends."

Medusa stared, but her tiny smile didn't fade. "…I'll admit. I'd like that... I just ask you not to mind if I call you Sakura by accident."

"Then please call me Sakura if it makes you feel more comfortable!" Parvati instantly replied with a gorgeous smile that made Medusa flinch in surprise. Every time she heard that name from the rider, her heart trickled with jumps of joy and nostalgic warmth; She may be Parvati, but if she could help Medusa feel happier, she was more than willing to be called by that cute name. "She means a lot to you, and I have borrowed her appearance. I'd be fine with it, Medusa! Please don't worry!"

With a growing silence, Medusa blinked with though as her small smile grew. "…I'll only allow it if you call me Rider in turn."

"As you wish, Rider," she replied courteously, and the two shared the first of many gentle smiles. Already, Parvati's heart filled with contentment that one of the hopeful meetings had reached safe harbor. She watched as the smiling Medusa glanced into the library as Hans' light grumbled echoed from a nearby bookshelf. Parvati giggled. "I guess he needs help?"

"Its Hans. He's always growling about something," Medusa offered just loudly enough to elicit more grumbles from the caster. They shared a chuckle as the rider stood up. "I should get back to helping them. I fear I've distracted you from your tour."

"Please don't worry, Medusa. This was much more important," Anishka nodded reassuringly with her own smile as she stood up with Parvati.

"Could we maybe meet up later today when you're less busy? Lunch or dinner perhaps?" Parvati quickly inquired.

Medusa presented another smile of appreciation. "I'm tied up for lunch, but dinner would work. I'd like that."

"Me too… There's so much I want to know about my host, and I'd like to get to know you better too! You were always a bit distant in her memories, but I think we can change that in this warm place!" Before Medusa could ask, Parvati had closed the distance and wrapped her in another hug. Anishka lightly giggled as the rider looked both uncomfortable and appreciative. Parvati released her quick embrace, but blinked curiously. "…Oh? You don't like hugs?"

"…I'm alright with hugs but… I apologize. Sakura didn't show affection so openly before," the rider explained. That was a fair point; Sakura was quite timid… but Parvati wasn't exactly Sakura. She could feel the lingering hesitation, but her divine being often walked past that in favor of generating bliss.

"Oh! But I do! I hope you don't mind," Parvati offered sheepishly with an apologetic glint in her sunny eyes. "Her memories tell me she always wanted to do it too!"

Medusa allowed herself yet another content smile, which was far more than she usually gave even in recent weeks. "I'll make sure there's a seat for you at dinner, Sakura."

"I'll be sure to find you!" she replied quickly, then glanced back to one of her new masters as the rider walked off. "Sorry about that, Annie."

"It's no trouble, Shri Parvati. I'm just glad everything worked out," she said earnestly as they began their walk towards the library entrance. "We're well over half way done with the tour too. We're making good progress."

Though her mind still swam in satisfaction after the reunion with Medusa, she remained hopeful and curious for what else lay ahead. Chaldea had a lot of surprising rooms, but it was the resident humans and servants she was quickly coming to enjoy. She'd yet to see her other Indian legends, but she was certain there would be others she'd be happy to greet. Bolstered by recent success, her heart swelled with anticipation for what was still to come.

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It was almost funny, really. Seeing Chaldea's expansions, both old and under construction, was one marvelous experience after the other. Anishka had saved the resort for just after the sneak peak of the mall, and it was worthy of being the crowning achievement; If you asked her, she thought Shiva would be absolutely amused by just what mankind did to Mount Meru, rather than upset. It even made it feel a little more mystical with its pseudo-reality.

Yet, as they walked down the boardwalk after touring the Tropicana forests and spas, the warm sun, caws of automata wildlife, and the ever-present sea breeze failed to hold her attention. As Parvati gazed to the outdoor cafeteria, her focus urged her to its shade. She'd fallen silent, and though Anishka fell curious, she merely followed after the entranced goddess quietly.

"I win again, Illya!" Kuro cried out from one of the tables as she presented her set of cards. Her damp hair hung down her very exposed back. Unlike her sister across from her, who was wrapped tightly in a white towel, she sat in a rather skimpy pink monokini.

"Good thing we're not betting anything…" Illyasviel sighed as Ruby laughed above her head. She dropped her random set of cards that were powerless before Kuro's two pairs. She still cracked a smile. "Another round? Berserker and the others aren't here yet."

At the table beside them, Kiritsugu and Irisviel were going over a bunch of travel brochures; The latter was far more animated, but the assassin's small smile proved he was also content. The mother almost glowed with her white one-piece with golden accents beside her husband, who'd gone for the plainest black tropical shirt with a matching set of swim trunks. The white-haired family's satisfied mirth echoed from the otherwise empty cabana, but it was the final member who drew her true curiosity.

Even if his loose hair was white, and his skin far tanner than Sakura's memories ever painted, Parvati knew she'd found someone special to her host. Wearing blue, nearly form-fitting board shorts with golden accents and a white tropical shirt, the servant in her sights whispered with slivers of familiarity. Even though his hair was white, the way it fell over his tanned forehead was so very reminiscent. This handsome man was no doubt important to Sakura, and she felt her heart skip a beat instinctively when he chuckled like winter bells when a gawking Kuro finally lost to Illyasviel.

That's when he finally glanced over towards them and froze. A small gasp escaped his lips, drew the attention of his family, and made Parvati come to a stop. Though uncertain and curious, she presented a small smile as the others turned to look. With a small wave as Anishka stood beside her, she smashed the silence before it could grow. "Hello! I'm sorry if I'm mistaken but… Would you be Shirou Emiya?"

"…Sakura…" Emiya finally voiced through his shock, which made his family's gazes snap back towards him; Parvati's guess was confirmed. Irisviel's eyes quickly lit up like a candle, and the mother shot to her feet to gaze curiously at the smiling goddess. Emiya walked towards them, all while Irisviel's eyes flared with excitement. They were contrasted by the tall archer, whose hopeful stare filled with caution and wariness. "…You're…? You're a pseudo-servant, aren't you?"

With an apologetic smile, the Hindu goddess offered a small bow and nod. "Yes… I'm sorry if it's not what you were hoping for, but I am the Goddess Parvati, and Sakura Matou is my host."

"Another goddess knows Oni-chan…" Illya mumbled out with surprise and some exasperation, but Kuro held back her amused laughter.

Their mother, on the other hand, was gleaming. "Oh~! So this is the little junior you told me about!"

"Not quite, Iri. But as close as we may gets, it seems," Kiritsugu reminded, but his wife didn't seem to listen.

Emiya returned a small smile and now, however. "…Yes, Okaa-san. Even if she's a pseudo-servant, she's Sakura without a doubt in my mind."

As he turned back with a disappointed but nostalgic stare, Parvati couldn't help but feel sad. Like Medusa, it was clear this important man would have appreciated the true young woman, but fate spun otherwise. As her heart mourned the tragedy within, her nurturing determination urged her to immediate action. She wasn't truly his Sakura, and he didn't seem to be the Shirou Emiya her host remembered, but that certainly wasn't going to stop her.

As Emiya held his hand out to greet her, Parvati surprised him by stepping in and giving him a warm hug. He froze instantly, and the goddess could only giggle; Sakura didn't embrace the confidence to pursue her hopes and dreams in most of her memories, so Parvati was going to make up for that tenfold. Even if Sakura couldn't witness all this herself, she was going to set things right with those important to her host. She giggled again as Emiya stuttered. "S-Saku… I mean-"

"Oh, it's fine~! You can call me Sakura. Medusa is already doing just that!" the goddess reassured as she broke the hug to stare up at the handsome man. "Is that alright with you… Emiya-Senpai?"

That word flew from her lips with such ease, she knew she was going to wind up using it for him regardless. Like calling Medusa Rider, it just felt perfectly natural, and even made her heart jump with bits of joy; This man before her, who Sakura secretly loved more than herself, was destined to be an important part of her new existence too. She felt her heart instinctively skip a beat again when his lips slowly tugged into a serene smile.

"…If it's alright with you, Sakura," he finally chuckled lightly, and she was suddenly surrounded by a field of flowers; Everything felt like it would be alright.

"Oh, so Sakura it is! Or would you prefer the rest of us call you Parvati?" Irisviel asked as she skipped over, then gave a friendly motion for Anishka to join them.

As the master closed the final few steps to join them, Parvati smiled and nodded. "I don't mind either. It feels warm to be called Sakura by Senpai's family… I'm sure my host would have loved it too. But… I don't recall ever meeting you, miss…?"

"Oh how rude of me… I'm Irisviel von Einzbern! Shirou's our adopted son." She instantly turned around to call the others, but the two girls and the father had already come around to join them. "Oh good, they're all here~! This is our family we never got to have! This is my husband Kiritsugu, and my wonderful bundles of joy, Illyasviel and Chloe!"

"Just call me Kuro! Everyone does!" Kuro winked towards the goddess, and Sakura bowed to her in response. "Ah sheesh… You look just as kind as Oni-chan said!"

"Oh? He talks about my host kindly?" she asked curiously, and Emiya scratched the back of his head with embarrassment. The girls giggled, and even Anishka joined in as Kiritsugu patted him on the back. She smiled. "I'm glad! My host's feelings for you don't lie. You were very important to Saku… er, me. It makes me glad to hear that."

It would take some time, but she'd get used to addressing her host as herself. She glanced to Emiya, whose smile faltered ever so slightly with hints of solemn regret. Almost instantly, her heart beat with concern for what she knew was coming. It was a feeling of nostalgic despair and loss Sakura had felt every time she saw her old flame with someone beautiful. Nevertheless, though it stung, Parvati's own feelings steeled her with perfect ease.

"Sakura… I know how you've felt about me-"

"You've got a lover already, don't you, Senpai?" She'd said it with such calmness and hints of satisfaction that Emiya froze entirely. Irisviel and Illyasviel no longer glanced between them with worry, but Kuro leaned in curiously as the goddess giggled. "I figured as much~… You were surrounded by women in our war... but please don't feel bad. I'm satisfied just being around you again. That's always been more than Sakura ever thought she deserved… you've always made me very happy just being there, Senpai."

She was going to have to work on addressing herself and Sakura better, but she wasn't doing too bad for her day-one tries. At the very least, she's able to convey exactly what her heart acknowledges; Though she'd always pine for him, it was enough just to love a person. For Parvati, the reciprocation never mattered. It was just the fact she was able to help and care for those she loved that brought her overwhelming happiness. It was an ideal matched by Sakura's own feelings, but not to such a divine extent.

Thankfully, Kuro also seemed game to lift the mood… but in her own way. She winked teasingly and whispered. "No matter the timeline, Oni-chan is always quite the ladies man~… How scandalous."

"Kuro!" Illyasviel reprimanded lightly as their mother and father tossed Emiya a playfully scrutinizing gaze.

To Parvati's satisfaction, despite the commotion, Emiya's smile grew relieved. "…I see. If you're fine with it, I'd very much love to have you in my life again. The kitchen team could always use another master."

"Ah, yes please! Annie said that you've lost a few cooks," Parvati gestured to their master, who waved quietly with a smile. "I'd love to help out in the kitchen! I've never gotten to cook much as a goddess, but all the memories Sakura has…! Oh! When can I start?"

"Tomorrow if you can't sit still long enough. I'd prefer if you relaxed on your first day here," Emiya assured with a small chuckle. Her eagerness brightened the expressions around her, and she quietly understood how quickly the ice was melting to reveal new, warm company. Minutes flew by in comfortable conversation, and the topics shifted and spun wildly in that time. Before long, one of the awaited playmates arrived to get the daughters' attention.

As Sakura watched Kuro and Illyasviel carried off by Heracles, she couldn't help but smile. The once unnervingly powerful berserker she encountered earlier looked very amusing in an oversize Hawaiian shirt and white swim trunks. Coupled with large sunglasses and a bunch of boogie boards, the faintly smiling powerhouse, at this moment, was more akin to a bastion of companionship than the mighty hero of legend. His arrival also ensured Anishka and Kiritsugu were stolen away by Irisviel so she could get another curious travel opinion.

It left Emiya and Parvati standing alone on the boardwalk beside the outdoor cabana… Distant enough she could ask the real, last question that bothered her. Emiya picked up her uncertainty easily, and met her gaze with firm reassurance. She spoke. "Senpai… About Ishtar…"

"I presume Anishka told you her host's identity?"

She nodded slowly as her heart pounded against her chest. "Rin Tohsaka… Sakura's true sister."

"She's returning this afternoon with the rest of the Urukians," Emiya offered immediately, rather than beat around the bush. "If you wish to meet with her, I can support you… I know this won't be easy."

That could be a massive understatement, but she was going to do everything in her power to ensure it actually was. Of the three she felt the urge to meet, Ishtar was likely going to be the hardest. She wasn't certain how she would react given who was in control. That goddess wasn't known as a friendly one… but Anishka did say her personality was calmer due to her host; It was a bit surprising considering how Rin could often get. Even so, it was a reunion that should happen sooner rather than later…

…and as a goddess of love and nurturing, she wanted to mend that wound as fast as possible.

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Time sailed by in wonderful conversation with Emiya and his parents. While she hadn't gotten to learn about his sisters as much since they had a swim-date with their other friends, she found she had more than enough new company and friendly faces to meet. Arash, Mata Hari, Atalanta, a familiar Jaguarman, and others soon joined their conversation while the kids played. Before she knew it, Friday's lunch had arrived, and she was surrounded by even more eager faces ready to meet 'the sweet Indian goddess.'

She'd become so popular so fast, it was hard just making her way to the barbeque line, but she was more than happy to wait. "I'd love to get to know you two better when you return from your trip! We can even speak your language if it's more comfortable since Sakura is Japanese."

"Ah, that's very golden of you! But English is fine too!" Kintoki chuckled as he kept his hands perched on his hips. Like Fuuma beside him, he was dressed in a black business suit as per Vigil request; The Angel the Babylonians were returning on would be their vacation taxi. "It's just great to have such a friendly face around! Usually it takes others time to warm up to the place! Right, Fuuma?"

"It took me a bit to get used to the craziness," the ninja beside him nodded. "Although you have more to accept with all the construction."

"This place feels like a small town," Parvati giggled as Kintoki checked his watch. "Ah, I'm sorry! We got carried away talking! You two should enjoy your lunch before you depart!"

"She's right, Kintoki-Senpai. We should eat quickly before Raikou-san and Shuten-san get here," Fuuma agreed completely, but made the tall blonde scratch his head with exasperation and sigh. "They're still changing, so we have some time before their next spat!"

"I wish they'd just get along…" Kintoki mumbled dejectedly, but offered a kind smile back to Parvati. "Enjoy your lunch! And we'll have golden conversations when we come home!"

"Have a safe trip!" Parvati bid kindly, and giggled lightly as Kintoki waved while Fuuma bowed.

Between the friendly berserker and the respectful Fuuma, the other Japanese servants seemed like an interesting bunch; A shame she'd only meet the other half properly when they returned from vacation. Thanks to her host, she felt a little kinship with them, and was more than willing to spend time at the beautiful Shrine once she got settled…

Oh! But first, before another group stopped her, she wanted to see the types of food she would be helping with! Her specialty may be Indian and Japanese cuisine, but she was more than eager to learn more to increase her palette. She was also a bit hungry with all the delicious aromas seducing the air.

Parvati ducked briefly as one of the amusing automata flew overhead, but her eyes glittered as she recognized the vibrant coloring of a stork-billed kingfisher. They were always a lovely little bird to watch in the wilds of India, but to see a mimicry flying about in Chaldea made this place feel a little more like home. She slowed her pace gently to watch it eye some of the food from its wooden perch on a support beam, only to be joined by a mate seconds later.

As she reached the line, a voice cried out over the many sounds of mirth that filled the cabana. "Goddess Parvati!? Has anyone seen the new Indian legend!?"

She turned curiously at the excited tone with a tiny smile. Finally, after the three hours of being here, it appeared time to meet the other Indian legends. They'd been in some sort of secret, long meeting while Anishka gave her a tour, and though she wanted to meet them sooner, they had all the time in the world. She even made sure Anishka kept their identities a secret so meeting them would be a fun little surprise!

…At least until another voice called out with a happy giggle. "Calm down, Rama! Parvati isn't going anywhere."

"…Rama…" the goddess mumbled under her breath as her ever-flowing mirth was finally marred by the first tints of what lay beneath. She was a deity who presented love, friendliness, and acceptance to all she encountered, but host or not, she too had her own reservations and frustrations. Like a jagged rock that protruded from a beautiful wide river, light irritation jutted from her heart where the lingering grudges rested.

However, she was a divine of beauty, grace, and a soothing presence; They did a number on her frustration's appearance. To the growing curiosity and amusement of others nearby, they stared at the face of the scorned Indian Goddess… which was presented more like a cute pout at best. Even if wronged and humiliated, this was the most that could ever appear, as her frown, pursed lips, and shaking fists made her stand like a wronged teenager. Even the grudges that welled beneath felt more like a burning itch than a true controlling force.

It was this adorable yet offended expression that Rama and Sita finally gazed upon as they appeared from a parting group of mingling servants, hand in hand. If she wasn't feeling scorned, she would have thought they looked unbelievably cute in their matching attire. A white blouse with hair ribbons for a white tropical shirt, and a red ruffle skirt for a red pair of board shorts made them look perfectly as one; The matching sandals helped, along with their now confused expressions.

"…Um… Are you okay, Parvati…?" Sita asked first as Arjuna and Karna tried to move through the once-more closed gap in the crowded cafeteria. Some conversations slowly began to simmer while others pointed towards the cutely pouting goddess.

Arjuna and Karna's heads finally appeared through the crowd as Rama bowed lightly, then presented a smile. "We're sorry we took so long to meet you! It was very disres-"

He fell silent as her brow furrowed more, and her hand jutted out like a vengeful spear towards Rama. "HOW DARE YOU SLEEP WITH MY HUSBAND!"

No one had ever seen the outdoor cafeteria fall so deathly silent so fast before. As all eyes swiveled to Rama, a few seconds flew by in the sudden vacuum of space. Even the robots helping to serve food had frozen completely to stare. The silence was first broken not by an argument, but by Karna's rare but genuinely mirth-filled laughter. Arjuna stared at him incredulously as it grew into a deadly contagion that swept through the cafeteria.

Blackbeard finally called out from the back with laughter, "Rama did what!?"

"JUICY DETAILS PLEASE!" Osakabehime called out from somewhere else, and anyone nearby heard Kiyohime and Tamamo groan.

"Is that going on Thronebook?" another employee called out as Rama shook with embarrassment.

As a few more chuckles and wolfish whistles ran out, his cheeks quickly heated up bright red. He stared to Sita with growing despair and apology, but his wife only hid her amused giggle with one hand as she squeezed Rama's hand reassuringly with the other. He finally turned back to the still pouting Parvati and dropped to the ground in an apologetic bow. Laughter and whistles only echoed more as he dipped his head repeatedly. "Parvati! I didn't do it! You know I didn't-!"

"I know what you did, Vishnu, don't even try hiding it from me!" she yelled and pouted. Between her loving aura and how cute she looked stomping a foot lightly in aggravation, the only tension that formed was on the cheeks of those who were laughing too hard. "You slept with Shiva! You wronged me!"

"I'm sorry! I'm really sorry, but it was another avatar! That wasn't me! Please don't pin this on me!" Rama groveled on the ground as a giggling Sita knelt down to gently rub his back. His pleading eyes shot to her. "Sita, my love! I'd never betray you! Never! Never, never, never-!"

"I know~…" Sita merely hummed. Her giggle fit grew as Parvati puffed her cheeks and crossed her arms; She was succeeding in being the cutest angered goddess to date. Sita smiled to her, "Parvati… Aren't you being a bit unfair to Rama? You know he's not the real culprit."

Truthfully, it wasn't him… but she couldn't help but feel the rare impulse to bent frustration. Rama was an avatar of Vishnu, and she was an avatar of Shakti. In that other time, Vishnu's incarnation Mohini had been a seductress who enticed her beloved into sleeping with her. As another form of Vishnu, she couldn't help but feel a bit peeved and humiliated by him, yet that's all it would ever grow to; Any true anger didn't surface from this. She was far too kind and loving as a goddess, but she was at least adamant to finally air her dissatisfaction.

Did she feel bad? Of course she did… being mean in any way automatically flooded her with guilt and apology. As quickly as the sudden storm of frustration had come, the clouds were already slowly parting. With a sigh, and a now diminished little pout, she let out a small persistent hum of lingering irritation. "…I know… but it was really disrespectful of Mohini to do that! And I've been holding onto that for too long!"

"Made for one hell of an icebreaker! Welcome to Chaldea!" Beowulf commented casually from somewhere in the outdoor cafeteria, and more chuckles raced through. Even Parvati found herself giggling lightly, though her brows remained a touch tense. Quietly, she abandoned her place in the line to walk over to the divine couple. As Rama stood and Sita helped dust some sand off his knees, they met eyes with her.

Finally, with another sigh and bow, she presented a tiny smile. "I'm sorry about that, it was a sudden compulsion I had to let out of my system… Let's try this again? …Hello, Rama! Sita! I'm Parvati, and I'm honored to meet fellow Hindu divines! Oh! But I didn't think you two would be this cute!"

Her smile was matched by theirs as she leaned in and brought Sita into a hug first. She then reached over to add Rama with her other arm, but paused to give a playful warning through stern eyes. "…But don't even think about lay-"

"I'm not going to sleep with your husband!" Rama reassured quickly, and even more laughed at the sheer absurdity of the statement. Though she now understood how her anger would form if given the chance, she was glad how thoroughly suppressed and subdued it was. Even if the act was honestly a bit incredulous, the angriest she'd been was but a light breeze compared to the gale of most. She was too kind for anything truly malicious.

Especially not to fellow Indian legends, or the many heroes here she was more than happy to get to know. She glanced up to the other two legends, but saw Arjuna, with Anishka nearby, still trying to make their way past the last human obstacles. Karna had come up though, and he looked relaxed in a black tropical shirt with sun patterns all over it. As she tried to guess who the pale-skinned powerful man was, he kept one hand in the pocket of his gold board shorts, raised the other, and greeted her. "Heyo Chal-deluxe!"

Laughter erupted from those nearby again; Anishka, who cleared the crowd, stopped to stare at Karna while Rama and Sita chuckled. Parvati blinked, but smiled. "…Excuse me?"

"It's a greeting we designed recently to make new servants feel more welcome. Heyo Chal-deluxe!" Karna stated again with a small nod.

"…I think Gabby meant that post as a joke, Karna," Rama suggested, even as some others echoed it around them; It was spreading fast.

This wasn't how she thought her meeting with her fellow legends would go, but truthfully? She loved this first impression much better.

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

She wasn't too sure what kept her attention more at lunch: Rama and Sita being so in love and all over each other, or Arjuna and Karna being surprisingly civil. Truly, Chaldea was a strange place, but she welcomed the warmth. All the reservations she had about so many heroes had been washed clean like hands beneath a faucet, yet only one more remained true. Still, with a steeled and determined heart, Parvati was adamant on ensuring this was addressed sooner, rather than later.

That didn't mean her heart wasn't beating fast as she waited in the comfort of her new room. Still fresh with the refined smell of the deodar wood walls. Her small furnishings and bed were quaint, but she was truthfully excited about getting to decorate her very own space for once; Poor Sakura didn't have that luxury in most of her memories, so she was going to make up for it here. Choosing everything from the bed to the walls and little bits of home would be a fun little hobby!

Content that she was keeping herself levelled on a plateau of excitement and worry, she gazed around her otherwise bare room while making subtle plans. Even with the sound muffling within the walls, she could still hear the distant sounds of construction expanding the Residential District even more; She likely wouldn't hear their approach. She was just glad Emiya was going to be nearby to help facilitate if necessary.

"Sakura… We're nearly to your room. Are you ready?" Speak of the kind man in question.

"Yes, Senpai… You can wait by the door if you wish," she reassured telepathically as she breathed calmly to steady her worried heart. "I'll be fine. This tragedy must not be allowed to grow here."

Parvati was adamant. The tears and heartbroken memories of a poor, abandoned girl cried out to her, and the goddess would not dare turn her eyes away. Crushed moments of watching a former sister from afar must never be allowed again. Whether Ishtar wanted to for her host or not was irrelevant: Parvati was determined. This would be discussed now, rather than later, in proper privacy for two deities. Her only concern was just how negotiable Ishtar truly was.

She would get her answer as she felt the faint but powerful presence approach. Like it felt similarly for Sakura in so many memories, her presence sucked attention like a black hole. She could only focus on the mighty aura of elegant dignity that permeated through the door, yet her calm eyes merely stared as the knock came. Though she held firm, she couldn't help but feel her body tingle at the call of the awfully familiar voice. "…Parvati? You've called for this goddess?"

"Yes… The door is unlocked. Please feel free to enter," she answered firmly, even as her heartbeat grew erratic again.

When the door slid open, Parvati's heart mourned and skipped a beat. Ishtar floating in, looking like she was cut perfectly from her mental scrapbook. Her crimson eyes, which widened barely in shock, betrayed nothing afterward; Any mounting tension, if there was any, could not be discerned beneath the red, knitted turtleneck sweater or her white yoga pants. She felt like Rin, yet the mighty presence of the goddess reminded the sheer difference… or did it? Rin was always mighty and wonderful in Sakura's envious, longing heart.

Emiya nodded from the doorway, and the door slid shut. The two turned to look for a brief moment, before their eyes landed on each other once more. Even if she was calm and controlled, Parvati felt the subtle influence of her host's personality making her twiddle her fingers in her lap. Though Ishtar floated clearly like a bright star, Parvati wondered if she felt just as uncomfortable behind that ever elegant and mighty skin.

"Thank you for coming, Goddess Ishtar," Parvati bowed gently as she presented her first disarming smile. "I'm sorry to bring you into something serious so soon after your vacation, but… I did not wish to wait. I'm sure you understand what this meeting is about."

Ishtar nodded slowly, then spoke with the refined elegant voice that rang so loud in mind. "I always wondered if I'd get to see my host's sister for myself someday…"

"Then the time has merely come," the Indian goddess replied as she patted the bed next to her. "If I may request, can you sit beside me?"

"…This goddess can permit that," Ishtar obliged, and Parvati got her first taste of the other deity's proud demeanor. She was expecting differences, just like Ishtar likely was, but it still came as a solemn whisper to a grieving heart; This was sadly not the true heartwarming reunion it should have been, but that was not going to deter Parvati. This must be done.

As Ishtar took her seat beside the other goddess, their eyes faced forward in mutual uncertainty for but a blink. Parvati finally turned to her. "…You look just like her. The sister my host cried over for so many years…"

That quickly struck a chord with the other goddess. Parvati watched her eyes wince slightly, and she turned a guarded expression to her. "…And you look just like Sakura, yet you're not. We're both deities in our own rights, with the sisters as our blessed hosts."

"Their family must have been truly special for the throne to choose both of them…" Parvati offered with a small giggle to lighten the tension. To her relief, Ishtar cracked the tiniest hints of a smile; The rowdy goddess really had seemed to mellow, she hoped. "Emiya-Senpai too… and his family."

"Then you've been acquainted with them already?"

"After my tour. It was a fun few hours," Parvati nodded and gazed to Ishtar again. "My only remaining wish lies with you."

"…I see… It was only a matter of time, huh…?"

"Yes. But this is something I want to address now, rather than wait… Rin and Sakura often danced around this too much for my heart to accept… So I wish to get right to the point. I hope you don't mind, Goddess Ishtar."

The other goddess remained silent, but nodded in acceptance. As Emiya informed Parvati, the Mesopotamian goddess knew this day may come, but she was truthfully a bit uncertain. The feelings Rin stirred within her made her hesitant, and she wasn't certain if she'd approach; That's why Parvati decided for her. She requested they meet as two goddesses, but both of them knew what this was truly about. The question was, would this go as smoothly as she hoped after hearing her consolidation with Emiya and Arturia.

She wasn't going to wait longer to heal the aching sore. "Ishtar… Though we come from different regions, we share much in common. We're both goddesses of love and fertility, and our hosts share a kinship that has been unrightfully ruined by tragedy. As an incarnation of the beloved Shakti, I cannot allow this to take root here… Not when there's so much beautiful promise between our two entwined souls!"

Ishtar stared at her with eyes that grew softer by the second. Subconsciously, her lips whispered her own heart's cry into the air. "…Sakura…"

That convinced Parvati more than anything else as her resolve ushered her forward. "…I loved hearing you say that name, Tohsaka-Sen… No, I'm sorry! …Nee-san! I want to hear you say my name more often again, just like we had shared so many times in the past! I want to form that beautiful bond that could have been, and to relive those glimpses of happiness when we did! Please… accept this other goddess' request! Fate has united us, so let's answer the cries of our hosts and be sisters again!"

She went straight for the point. There's been enough beating around the bush in the past; The tragedy would end today, of that, Parvati was certain. Any doubt that it wouldn't, or would end terribly, deteriorated into nothing with the slowing beat of her worried heart. There was no need to fear anymore. Though the heart of her host was timid and self-depreciating, the most beautiful part merged flawlessly with her divinity: The sheer resolve to do whatever it took to make those important to her smile.

And it worked. Immaculately.

"…Geeeez… Sakura was never this forward…! Never!" Ishtar complained lightly, but the tiny smile and glistening eyes said enough. They made Parvati's own eyes moisten with the growing satisfaction born from the lovely, beautiful cries of her host's merged heart. True to form, Parvati followed her impulse, and wrapped Ishtar in a light hug. Her heart only sang more as the other goddess returned the gesture. "…I… This goddess can accept this…! This goddess wants it too, Sakura!"

"Don't cry, Nee-san. It doesn't look good on you…!" Parvati soothed as she rubbed her back, even as her own tears raced down her cheeks to soak into her hair and sweater; Ishtar's happiness leaked onto her own shoulder. Their breaths hitched, but the smiles they shared were incomparable. Their arms lay clasped to each other as if they would slip away like fleeting dreams, yet there was no worry. It was a dream, alright, but a now grasped one her heart so desperately yearned for.

She wasn't sure how long they just stayed there, holding each other like their host's merged hearts often wished. When they finally did break, Ishtar quickly wiped the tears from her face, then did the same for Parvati's. The Indian goddess giggled at the affectionate action, which swept onto Ishtar's own lips like a delivered gift. Flawless ruby stared into the most beautiful violet as Parvati reached out and gently held Ishtar's hand.

As her own fingers squeezed around it, Ishtar smiled a little brighter. "Finally… I have a sister I can get along with."

Parvati blinked, then remembered the legends. "Ah… That's right. Ereshkigal is in Chaldea too?"

"Unfortunately…" Ishtar grumbled as she amusingly looked away. "She's practically in league with Gilgamesh and Enkidu… They pick on me so easily…"

"Oh… I'm sorry to hear that," Parvati whispered as she presented a reassuring smile and gently squeezed her new sister's hand. "…I could speak to her for you? As one goddess to… Oh… Wait, if we've both agreed to be sisters, then would that mean…?"

To Parvati's surprise, Ishtar's eyes widened with horror, and she quickly wrapped her arms around her new little sister again… albeit a bit rougher. "Wha…? Nee-san!?"

"No! She's not taking you away from me!" the Mesopotamian goddess almost seemed to yell in a panic. Parvati only blinked in confusion while her face remained buried in Ishtar's bosom. "This goddess won't let you fall to her charm! Never! Never, never! That damn goddess won't take you away from me after I got you back!"

The door slid open, and Emiya peaked his head inside curiously. "…Is everything alri-?"

"This doesn't have to do with you, Emiya-kun!" Ishtar quickly reprimanded. Though he'd been smiling at the sight, the other archer quickly winced in surprise, popped back out of sight, and let the door close. As Ishtar seemingly fell a little less paranoid and suddenly possessive, Parvati couldn't help but giggle in her warm embrace. This wasn't quite the elegant Rin Tohsaka her memories recalled, but it was certainly amusing… and even a bit endearing. Her giggles soon swept through Ishtar too.

With the final piece in place, Parvati fell wholly satisfied.

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Parvati couldn't have hoped for a better afternoon. Though she had barely a few minutes of personal time since arriving, she cherished every moment of it. There were so many smiling faces and a reunited sister who wished to get to know the friendly and caring goddess, and she was more than happy to return the enthusiasm. Nevertheless, everyone could use a tiny break for themselves. With that task in mind, she'd parted with Ishtar so she could finally sort out her own home comforts, but outside her rather sparse room.

Salon de Marie would do nicely for a tranquil mind. As lovely as the window couches were, she found it was just a little too bright for her liking, and the distant range was obscured by the thick blizzard's curtain. She'd wandered over to a set of couches that flanked the Ballroom floor, and she found it far cozier than she expected. It would certainly make going through the magazines that much more enjoyable, like a queen enjoying leisure in her grand palace.

While humming a quiet, traditional tune, she placed the few magazines from her room onto the glass table, then smoothed her elegant battle dress. Gingerly, she picked up the first one which showcased the Clothing Department's available clothing designs. She wasn't going to ask for more than two special orders when they did reopen as the Stitch Witches; There was lovely charm in simplicity. She may go a little crazy with the furniture though.

In a moment, she was lost in her gentle hums as she browsed through her magazine. Minutes were lost on every page as Mozart finally started to practice a new piece. Marie and Mata Hari's happy voices echoed from the distance, but they did little to distract her from solitary bliss; As much as Sakura dreaded it in memory, Parvati was adamant to bury those dark experiences with as many happier ones as she could.

The only times her trance broke was when D'Eon brought her some iced water and Whiskers came over to be petted. That changed with the careful approach of a master, but she already grew accustomed to the reverent presence. Her smile grew a little brighter as she gazed up and over to Anishka, who looked absolutely stunning in her aquamarine two-step sari. Accented with gentle silvers, the traditional dress quickly attracted the goddess attention as her eyes glittered with glee.

From her first impression with happy tears to her cute little stutters of respect, Anishka had made a firm impression as her master. Gabrielle was lively, and Gudao had his own diligent charm, but a worshiper was a breath of fresh air. She was more than eager to learn more about the lovely master; So much for her personal time, but no harm done! If anything, she wanted to see if she was always exceptionally respectful, or if she was a bit troubled, since she often waited silently as she talked with others.

Anishka smiled brighter as Parvati placed her magazine on the glass coffee table to clap lightly. "Annie, you look like a goddess! Did you get the sari here?"

"It's one of my dresses from home. Babuji bought it for me."

"Awww… I was hoping to get one too…" Parvati lamented very lightly as she giggled. She then quickly scooched over on the couch when she saw the master just standing there politely. "You should never need to ask, Annie! Please feel free to join me!"

Anishka giggled lightly, then bowed graciously as she took a seat. "Sorry, Shri Parvati… I came over to see if you wished for company. You were alone."

"Alone, finally~…" the goddess merely giggled. "It's been one meeting after another, but they were all enjoyable. There's so many kind souls in Chaldea!"

"I'm glad your arrival has been smooth," the master noted with a tiny smile, but Parvati glanced at her expression quietly. She could see the weariness still present and just barely hidden beneath. "Usually when a servant arrives, us masters are worried for the worst… but I was really happy when you told me about your meetings. I've never seen someone so determined to smooth everything so quickly, and on their first day but… I should have believed you could do so, Shri Parvati."

"Mhmm… My host has seen enough hardship, and I wish for only the prettiest flowers to bloom for those important to me," Parvati replied calmly as she folded her hands in her lap, then turned to fully study Anishka for the first time. The master glanced back calmly with that respectful, almost timid smile with her own hands in her lap, but there was no hiding it from her. Parvati's expression filled with hints of worry. "I'm sorry if I seem nosy, but are you alright, Annie? You've been secretly troubled ever since I arrived."

The façade snapped like a twig. Anishka's smile nearly vanished, but she quickly hid it behind a veil of curiosity and confusion. "Yes, Shri Parvati. I'm fine, why do you ask?"

Except she wasn't. It was apparent sad stress and even possibly anxiety flowed within her like a rushing creek. Parvati had seen the look more times than she could count whenever Sakura stared at herself in the mirror to practice her act. She could try all she wished to hide it, but Parvati understood the look of a troubled soul hiding behind a strong wall. However, the goddess didn't intend to do anything to send her spiraling into the ground from whatever troubled her.

She just wished to help in some way… to free the angelic little worshipper, who was quickly becoming a dear soul, from the problem that plagued her. "It's alright if you don't wish to tell me, Annie, but I'm one of your sacred gods. You find strength in us, so it's only proper that I may lend my ear or shoulder if you so desire. I only wish to help where I can."

Anishka fell silent as her composed smile fell slightly. Parvati watched as she decided whether or not to keep it secret; She no longer hid it though. From the conflict that gleamed in her onyx eyes, the goddess understood this was a far greater problem then she suspected if it troubled her to this extent. It also made her wonder how adept she was at keeping secrets.

After a seeming eternity of glancing around for anyone nearby and wondering, a saddened Anishka scooched a little closer. "…I… Promise you won't tell others, Shri Parvati?"

"Of course. Whatever you wish to tell me is for us alone." Parvati laid a hand on hers gently for extra reassurance.

"…Okay…" With one final breath out, and another paranoid gaze that fueled the goddess' curiosity, she looked to her. "…I've made a terrible mistake, but… but I didn't know what I should have done…! It's made Shri Rama and Shri Sita upset with me… and even Karna is…"

She fell quiet as she tried to find the words, but Parvati gently nodded. "Does this have to do with your relationship with Arjuna?"

Anishka didn't mouth a word, but she slowly nodded with mounting shame. Parvati had heard of it in passing… It was a sad little gossip that was going around that not all was well with the Indian legends once she started dating Arjuna. Though they stood together at times, she could tell they didn't feel together. He'd pass her an occasional glance, and she'd do the same, and sure they'd hug but, it felt distant to any who observed.

"I… I should've said no when he asked me out…" she whispered in shameful admittance. "…but I… I didn't know which way was better. I still don't know."

"You like him, but you don't like him in that way," Parvati quickly summarized; She was far too knowledgeable on the idea of unreciprocated feelings. Anishka nodded gently, with even more guilt than before, but Parvati understood. Anyone who'd seen this master around her revered legends would know instantly. "…You didn't want to offend him."

"…Yet I did anyway…! I made it worse!" she practically lamented through quiet breath, and Parvati watched the first glints form in her eyes. She frowned sadly. If only she'd arrived sooner to help guide her down the right path before this problem unfolded. "…Shri Parvati… Please… I needed to talk to someone about this… Someone looking from the outside… I don't know what to do. I can't decide what will hurt less in the end."

There was still much she didn't understand about this woman, but she wasn't going to judge. The young make mistakes, but all humans do. It was only natural that they struggled with an answer, since everyone did so in their own way. Unfortunately, Anishka seemed to be the kind to lock up and bury difficult personal decisions. Parvati had to be her will. "…You can't delay this anymore than you have. For both of your sakes, you should tell him quickly."

"…Shri Rama said the same thing…" she replied near-silently. It was low enough that Parvati picked up a set of approaching footsteps. "…I've failed all of them. This is all my fault. I let this get to where it is. I'm better than this! Shri Rama and Shri Sita said so, but look at the mess I made…! I thought I could…!"

Though Parvati tried to reassure her by squeezing her hand as the master's voice hitched, she turned to look towards the approaching servant. Anishka was too distraught to see or notice, but Parvati was quick to act. She reached out telepathically. "Annie. Arjuna is walking towards us."

Her reaction speed was unnerving; Like lightning, she quickly wiped the tears from her eyes as her back straightened perfectly. A few controlled breaths later, the mask was suddenly back in place, but Parvati could only stare in surprise. 'Why is she so used to hiding things…? It's more refined than even Sakura…'

With a forged tiny smile that looked near perfectly natural, Anishka glanced back to Arjuna. The handsome, sharp-looking archer approached calmly in his suede navy jodhpuri and white slacks. Parvati could sense nothing wrong, but the gaze in his eyes had been shifting every time she gazed at them in the past day. After lunch, they seemed steeled yet resolved, and it made Anishka's smile falter slightly. "Arjuna… are you okay?"

"To be honest, Annie… No. I'm not," he answered calmly but directly as he stopped by them. He offered a tiny, apologetic nod to Parvati, before glancing back to their master, whose smile had quickly faded. "Do you mind if we talk in private for a moment? We can go to your room or mine."

Parvati could only watch as the careful façade was beginning to crack; She'd only been letting out her feeling barely a minute ago. "…Arjuna? Did something happen…?"

Anishka's effort to make it look like guessing faltered completely. Arjuna noticed instantly, and his stare grew as worried as Parvati's as Anishka visibly shook. "…I hope it's not anything bad or anything, right?"

Arjuna glanced to Parvati, then to Marie and her staff busying themselves farther away. His worried glance fell on her once more as she stared back. Her eyes were watering, and the light tremble in her lip softened the archer' look instantaneously. He turned to Parvati once more while he debated with himself. It was only when Anishka finally couldn't hold back a hitched breath that Arjuna finally sighed like a wounded animal… How very unlike the proud and regal archer she'd met.

"…I talked with Karna, Rama, and Sita. They told me everything…" Arjuna offered quietly, and those words broke the glass. "…Annie. Why didn't you just tell me then?"

"…Y-You know…!?" Anishka's first sobs rang out, and Parvati instinctively leapt into action. She wrapped her arms around the master as her first tears rained down her cheeks. Any control was gone as the next pained sob left her throat, and she swiftly drew the attention of the rest of the salon staff. This should have been in private, but now…!

Parvati was surprised, but relieved, when Rama, Sita, and Karna charged into the room to quickly reassure the others. They were but blurs in the distance, but their presence allowed her to focus on the wounded soul in her arms. She gently rubbed Anishka's back as Arjuna gently moved the coffee table aside so he could kneel before them. The master only buried her face in her hands in distressed guilt.

"…I'm s-sorry…!" she wailed through her sobs. "Arjuna…! I'm sorry…! I-I'm s-sorry…!"

All she could do was repeat those two words like a mantra as Parvati tried to soothe her. She shared a glance with Arjuna, but she nodded in reassurance. The gods watched down on humans, so this would be no different; She was merely a witness again. Quietly, she watched as Arjuna moved his hand to rest on Anishka's shoulder gently. As he rubbed soothingly, it aided Parvati's efforts.

She lost count of the minutes that passed before the master's endless apologies fell into a whisper. A stillness had fallen over the room as the others watched from afar, but did not approach. Only the occasionally shakes and gentle sobs from the distressed master rang low. After several calming breaths and a last hitched exhale, she finally dropped her hands to stare with puffy eyes. She fell startled upon seeing Arjuna's tiny, reassuring smile. "…Ar… Arjuna… I… you're… n-not mad…?"

"…I'm not angry with you, Annie. I'm more upset with myself than anything for not noticing sooner," he softly reassured as her hands sunk to her lap. Parvati placed her hand on one, as he placed his hand on the other. "Maybe at first I was… but that would have been wrong of me to hold onto it or bury it. How could I have dared to hold a grudge against the one who accepted me for all my perceived faults?"

Confused, Anishka could only stare with uncertainty. Though left out of the loop, Parvati was already enjoying what was happening: A better outcome than she even anticipated with what she knew. Arjuna gently rubbed her hand. "I'm… honestly glad you don't like me in that way. I was a little worried my fortune was at work again, but I'm glad I understand what troubles you now. For your sake, I wish to end our short relationship."

"…You're… y-you're not disappointed…?"

"I am, truthfully, just not in you. You're an inspiring and beautiful woman, but it's simply not to be. I'll be over it with time, fear not," Arjuna reassured with a calming smile. "Just know I accept you for who you really are, just as you've accepted me for who I really am. What they told me about your own self-perceived hidden darkness does nothing to change my opinion of you, Master. What it does do, is make me want to help you realize there's nothing wrong with what you've hidden within yourself, just as you've done for me."

Anishka sniffled again. Though confused with what Arjuna meant, Parvati concerned herself over their master. She found it was unnecessary. Though the tears reformed, the tiny hints of a small smile were on Anishka's lips… a real one, this time. A true one. It looked like a weight was slowly lifting from around her neck and shoulders as she whispered back. "…I see… thank y-you, Arjuna…"

"You're always welcome, Annie," the archer offered as he gently leaned in and hugged her too. It felt far less stiff and uncertain than the scarce few times Parvati had seen them do it, and it made the goddess smile. This was how it should be: A comforting hug and true, unhindered show of affection, regardless if feelings were returned or not. There was no greater driving force than love in all its many forms.

Though slow at first, she gently snaked her arms around both of them, and they found themselves a little tangled. Parvati was the first to giggle as Anishka tried to secure a better hold, and the master quietly succumbed to mirth too. Even Arjuna let out a tiny chuckle as the room seemed to brighten again. As they slowly untangled, Parvati glanced back and saw the rest of the Indian legends approaching. Anishka slowly wiped at her teary eyes, but they smiled for the growing relief that danced on her lips.

Rama and Sita quickly enveloped her in a hug, and Parvati giggled and scooched away to give them more room. Karna glanced to Arjuna with a tiny smile. "All is well?"

"All is well," Arjuna nodded back calmly.

"But we need to make sure it doesn't happen again!" Rama quickly stated as he broke from his hug. Though Sita gently hugged Anishka from one side, while Parvati scooched in for comfort at her other, Rama stood up to place his hands akimbo. Anishka looked down with renewing shame, but the saber only stared in mild disappointment that was crushed beneath his concern. "…I told you, Annie. You can't keep hiding who you are forever. Everything will be better if you just told everyone already."

"Rama… We already agreed she needs to feel comfortable before she reveals it to everyone," Sita reminded quietly, but Rama sighed with dissatisfaction. Sita glanced to Parvati, and she merely nodded in understanding; She was wise, so the dots were easy to connect to a fairly safe guess.

"If I may… Shri Sita… Shri Rama is right, and I'm ashamed for letting it get to this point…" Anishka admitted with a firmer voice. As she took deep breaths, Rama's eyes suddenly sparkled with growing hope. Even Karna managed a content smile as she looked up and glanced to her former boyfriend. "Arjuna… I'm sorry I let it come to that… but thank you for forgiving me for my offense. I won't let it happen again… not to anyone. I'll… I'll finally try to be honest about myself, just as you have. I always looked up to you for that."

"And we'll be here to support you all the way," Arjuna replied with a tiny smile.

"Just take your time with it, Annie. There's no need to tell everyone all at once. Do what you're comfortable with," Sita reassured with a comforting smile. "Baby steps! One at a time will be easier!"

"You can practice on me. I haven't been told yet~…" Parvati hummed innocently with a calming smile that could placate demons. Anishka looked at her, fiddled gently with her hands in her lap, and smiled gently. She considered it for only a mere moment, but then nodded in thanks. Regardless if she knew or not, she was just happy to help in any way like the kind and nurturing goddess she was; What better than to help the respectful master who summoned her to this wonderful place?

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

"You're looking especially happy tonight."

"And you're looking especially beautiful, Rider!"

Caught completely off guard by the sudden compliment, Medusa blushed an adorable shade of light pink as she subconsciously pushed her glasses up with a finger. She sat beside the goddess in a form-fitting, off-shoulder black sheath dress that emphasized her curves as much as her battle dress; Parvati had no question why she was still rated number one hottest woman in Chaldea, even with the hard competition.

Around them, the salon was lively with pre-dinner conversation, but Parvati could only smile in amusement at the rather nervous looking Medusa. "Are you really that worried introducing me to your sisters?"

"…Yes, truthfully. I'm… scared they may not like you." It was amusing to see, and even a bit funny to acknowledge there was one last little trial for her arrival. With so many memories of Medusa doting on Sakura, the tables have turned. It was her time to reassure her too, though, as a weaker goddess, she was probably going to rely on Medusa and her other allies in battle again.

"I'm sure you worry for naught," she smiled reassuringly, but her there was no extra time to ease her concerns. She blinked as two perfectly matched twins came waltzing towards them in strapless frilly dresses that nearly touched the floor; They kind of looked like adorable tiered cakes. As they gazed perfectly towards them, Parvati couldn't help but smile brighter. "Aww. I didn't think they'd be perfect twins!"

"So… You're the Sakura that Medusa has been so fond of," the pair noted together as they scooched into the booth seating across from them.

"It's a pleasure to meet you, Goddesses Stheno and Euryale. My host always wondered what Medusa's sisters would be like, but now I have an answer for her. I'm sorry you couldn't meet the true Sakura, but I still wish to be a part of your younger sister's life, and maybe yours too."

Medusa smiled lightly as a robot swiftly hovered over to place down a basket of garlic bread, but her sisters' eyes never ceased their scrutiny. Nonetheless, Parvati's calm smile remained as she faced them happily. Medusa grew with nervousness before the twins finally glanced to each other… then nodded: She passed the final trial.

They spoke together, "You're respectful… and pretty cute. Not as cute as me, mind you, but I can see why Medusa would want to protect you so dearly."

With a sigh of relief, Medusa's tension finally fell, and the three goddesses giggled. Stheno eyed her slyly, "We've seen the craft coins with her face countless times, Medusa."

"You worried over nothing… as usual…" Euryale commented, but then smiled lightly. "But it was cute. I want to see that more often."

"What were you worried about them not liking…?" Parvati asked curiously with a finger to her mouth.

"…We're… bigger… in more ways than one," Medusa answered discreetly. "My sisters don't find it cute or attractive…"

"Parvati is more acceptable. She's at least shorter than you and that other goddess…" the twins answered together, and Parvati tilted her head curiously.

Medusa quickly supplied. "Remember when I told you we have another tablemate who joins us-"

"WOW! Happy day! You're sitting with us Parvati!?" On cue, Quetzalcoatl flipped well over the table in a sundress; She clearly didn't care who saw what. The dress' many vibrant colors painted a blurry rainbow over the table before she landed, making Stheno and Euryale's eyes twitch. Medusa merely stared with an amused yet exasperated smile as the tall rider quickly brought Parvati into a hug. She rocked them excitedly, "Yay! Our table of divines grows!"

"Hi again, Quetz!" the Indian goddess couldn't help but giggle and hug back. The excitable rider had been a barrel of joy to meet, and she couldn't help but enjoy her sunny presence. As they giggled, they broke apart, but the taller rider gazed at the youngest Gorgon curiously. Parvati quickly looked before Medusa could completely hide her jealous glance. As she stared at Parvati with a new light blush, she smiled back. "You wanted in on the hug too, Rider?"

"The more the merrier~!" Quetzalcoatl celebrated as she practically sandwiched Parvati in an attempt to get at Medusa. Though she tried to get away, Medusa was caught in the growing net. They soon found the tide shifting the other direction as the twins began panicking with incredulous voices; Quetzalcoatl was adding them to her collection too. Even amongst all the chaos, and pinned against Medusa, Parvati happily smiled as her first day promised to end on a perfect note.

Truly liberated of any lasting problems, Parvati's laughter rang out like a spring wind.