A tunnel of swirling light… the slow return of physical sensation… the slow fade of howling winds as he felt his heartbeat again. The experience of being summoned was like the first breath after an endless dive, but this time was different. The disembodied voice had informed him otherwise, and once more, he'd be fighting with allies. That was hardly a strange idea from the last summoning he seemed to remember so vividly.
With that realization came a mounting dread. There were wonderful moments in that castle, yet also the grimmest of realities. Who would he be facing this time? Who would be on his side? The voice's frustratingly vague explanation left him wanting, but his heart remained steadfast. Just as he was loyal to that kind and wonderful Fiore, he too would face these new, untold dangers with his new master.
That's when the bright glow of the fading prana cleared like a morning fog in a mystical valley. He spoke out clearly, "Archer-Class servant… I have answered your summoning, Master."
The newly arrived archer stood at the dim room's center with well-toned arms calmly at his side. His bronzed leather armor, an archaic tunic and skirt, shimmered with ancient Greek heraldry and influence. From his legs covered in white leather guards to his chiseled face, he stood poised yet graceful. Serene blue eyes finally adjusted to the dimmer room while his long untamed honey hair, both from his head and unusual tail, fell still behind him.
Growing clarity brought forth his first glimpse at the silhouetted young man walking towards him- "…Teacher!? Teacher!"
'…That voice!' There was no mistaking that voice, especially when the memories of dying at his feet felt like it happened a minute ago. As the master stopped his approach, the newly arrived man stared towards another figure. They both froze with uncertainty as their eyes met. The room fell silent again.
The master blinked and glanced from the new arrival back to the familiar rider as he stepped beside him slowly. There was no mistaking him. The crisp black undergarments hugged the form of the athletic and renowned hero. Grieves of divine silver matched equally ornate pauldrons, chest piece, and bracers' accents. Yet, it was that firm, well-trained gaze of green that matched a wildfire of matching, spiked hair that shined with familiarity, if not the ever-treasured red sash all his precious students wore.
As the newly arrived archer slowly smiled, his eyes glinted with one last lingering ember of concern and worry. "Achilles… You're…?"
"…Don't worry, teacher!" Even after they parted on a less than ideal note, there was not an ounce of grudge in his voice. Achilles was satisfied, as was he as the archer's reservations vanished into the wind. To many, the man's proud and indomitable presence would have been overwhelming, but to him, it was a nurtured tree in his forest; It always would be, but it wouldn't be trampled this time.
Finally, with overwhelming enthusiasm, Achilles had bolted before him in a flash. The newly arrived archer didn't even hesitate to hug his long-lost student back as they breathed with relief. The tragedy of a past war wouldn't repeat; For its hardship, they were rewarded instead. They chuckled together, but he spoke first, "We're on the same side this time, Teacher! We'll be fighting together!"
"Just make sure I don't have to keep correcting any of your missteps, okay?" the archer responded back as they laughed. "…Not that I mind."
Though an apology was soon to follow and he breathed easy, his mind was already shifting gears. With hesitation's leave, inquisitiveness became happiness' companion. Uncertainty was no cause for fear, but a motivation to pursue. His ever wise self yearned to grasp new knowledge and answers as much as it wished to impart.
With a promising start, Chiron became hopeful there would be much to learn in a more comfortable environment.
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Fragment 83: The Pursuit of Knowledge
¨·..·¨·..·¨·..·¨(¯ˆ·.¸ ¸.·ˆ¯)¨·..·¨·..·¨·..·¨
It took a minute after their mutual sincere apology before Chiron remembered their uniform-clad master had been dead silent. He glanced over, and was content to find a satisfied expression and a patient smile: A magus with a different temperament. Achilles noticed too, and finally turned back with a sheepish, but happy, grin. "Ah, forgive us, Master! We got ahead of ourselves! This is my Teacher! The great centaur Chiron!"
The archer bowed lightly with a firm smile. "I hope my knowledge can be of some help to you... In any case, nice to meet you. I'll use all of my strength for your sake, Master."
"Ah, no! Please! It's okay! I'd never dare interrupt a reunion! And if I may request, I'd rather not be called master!" Gudao chuckled as he waved his hands before him sheepishly. He grinned. "I'm Gudao Fujimaru, but Gudao is more than enough. We try to keep everything as calm and relaxing as possible in Chaldea... Myself, my fellow two masters, the staff, and the countless other servants."
Chiron blinked as Achilles leaned in with a small smirk. "It's bigger than our last war. There's over a hundred servants on our side and we're all sharing the same goal! No wishes or grails to fight over!"
"We do have grails, mind you," another voice called out, and Chiron finally noticed another servant by the console. As the light brightened a bit more, Tesla, wearing his new navy-colored overcoat over his black formal attire, finalized the shutdown protocols for the system. Before Chiron's concern could grow, Tesla merely waved it off with a shake of his head and a smirk. "They're not miracle devices. They output a high quotient of magical energy, which is ideal for advancements, but they're not true greater grails."
Finally, the astute and brilliant man rounded the corner of the console and nodded lightly to the two. "I've already introduced myself to Achilles, but allow me to be the first servant in Chaldea to welcome you. I'm Nikola Tesla, the true Genius of Invention and Electricity! Don't let that damn Edison or that other Edison tell you otherwise!"
Chiron blinked again in confusion, but Gudao chuckled. "Their rivalry grows strong every day… There's much to explain, but we can discuss that and more as I give the tour of your new home. I hope you'll both find Chaldea as comfortable as we're trying to make it!"
There seemed to be much more to absorb than he first expected, but it only made him more interested.
¨·..·¨·..·¨·..·¨(¯ˆ·.¸ III ¸.·ˆ¯)¨·..·¨·..·¨·..·¨
From the glamour of the Roman Theater to the giant Deployment Chamber, Chaldea's lowest floors were already a small taste of the eyebrow-raising facility they've joined. Among the bright hallways, they'd caught their first glimpses of the strange robotic workforce, the start of Halloween decorations, one of the other staff, and even some fellow servants; King Hassan's opposing yet silent guard at the new Chaldean Vault stood out in his mind. Still, impressed was barely an apt description thus far.
Barely twenty minutes here, and Chiron already admired the place. This was a facility that stood against all odds with an unorthodox array of servants and grasped victory for mankind. Yet, for all its prowess and might, it didn't feel like the strict Yggdmillenia castle nor an ever-alert military bastion. To his delight, and Gudao's insistence, this comfortable and welcoming air had been a consistent atmosphere for the vast majority of their incredible trials.
"Tell me you're kidding, Gudao! There's still more, right!?" Too bad his student wasn't currently admiring that newly imparted knowledge.
"Achilles… Calm yourself, please," Chiron requested, though he smiled with sparsely contained amusement. Just before them, the nearly completed Port District waited to greet them at the far end of the wide Entrance Hallway… as soon as they started moving again.
"I can't, Teacher! You heard what he said!" Achilles practically complained as he kept his hands planted on Gudao's shoulders. His eyes were filled with disappointment and even a bit of sorrow. He looked like his childish self for but a moment, but it was more than understandable. Few things got Achilles like this, but the best bet was… "It sounded like a grand battle! A decisive clash to save the world and we missed it! By only a month!"
"Sorry, sorry…" Gudao apologized with a tiny chuckle as Achilles sighed some of his mounting frustration away. "It was imperative we defeated Goetia when the opportunity presented itself. Time was ticking!"
"I'm not sure why you're apologizing. It's only logical given the threat it presented," Chiron mused with a smile. If Gudao was any indication thus far, he certainly had some unique masters again. "I know Achilles would wish for another to show off…"
Achilles made a noise of complaint, but Chiron merely smirked lightly at him and continued. "But I pray it doesn't come to such a dire situation again."
Gudao's sheepish grin fell with growing seriousness, igniting some of his last lingering concerns. "…It might. That's what Da Vinci and El-Melloi theorized anyway. It only makes sense if more heroes are still answering the summoning calls… We just hope it's some escaped demon pillars causing it."
"And not something bigger…" Chiron finished and Gudao nodded in solemn agreement. Yet, Chiron felt they both knew but didn't admit.
He was no stranger to fate's cruel hand, and to expect the unexpected was a terrible lesson often taught repeatedly in history. Why else would more heroes still be summoned? Yet, if having a ruler summoned during their other Holy Grail war was necessary to curb Amakusa's questionable salvation, what did that say about a still-growing army of many classes? The menacing clouds on the horizon were unreadable, but learning of them would be more disturbing.
Achilles slammed a fist into his palm with an eager grin. Gudao blinked in surprise, but Chiron merely smiled at his now smirking student. "Well, well… if it comes to it, they've got more heroes to deal with! And I'm certainly not going to hold anything back after missing the party! We'll just save humanity again! A true hero's job!"
'Trust my nigh-invincible student to be really excited about even a shred of apocalyptic danger.' Not that he'd ever admonish him for the enthusiasm. He'd just level him out when it bordered on blinding arrogance. Currently? His confidence and excitement made for timely reassurance during a stretch of uncertain musings. "If that time comes, be sure to act considerately, Achilles. We have a lot of allies this time."
"This won't be my first war, teacher!" Achilles winked proudly and jabbed a thumb at himself. "I won't make the same mistakes as that one! Promise! Learned my lesson!"
"One less I'll have to give you then…" he mused back calmly, then gazed down the hallway. "Shall we, Gudao? I believe there's still much for us to learn, and for you to show."
"Nothing to worry about. We've got plenty of time!"
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The Port itself rivalled the Deployment Chamber and Fantasia Resort for volume. Stretching several hectares wide with a ceiling that reached nearly sixty meters high, it was a giant gash in the mountain's side. Countless lockers, crates, warehouse shelves, and some strange floating pallets did nothing to fill the massive interior. Mirroring the rest of Chaldea's bright white and gray color scheme, its far walls were replaced with massive doors whose hidden yet powerful mechanisms allowed them to open and close at a moment's notice.
Currently, the two closest doors were dropped like draw bridges, allowing a shower of the gently falling flurries to fly within. They danced in the air beneath the caged, industrial light fixtures above as the touring trio approached. On the ground were countless marking lines in blues and yellows for future stationed aircraft. Chiron watched guiding lights flare on as a few robots hovered into position for further assistance. Quietly, they came up to another pair waiting by some empty pallets.
"So this place is going to be filled with allied warplanes," Achilles mused as he gazed around again. "I wonder how tough these Vigil guys are."
"They're no ancient warriors if that's what you're asking, but there's no questioning their strength. The Vigil are best the modern militaries have to offer," Gudao noted confidently, and even a bit excitedly. "We'll be welcoming our small garrison next week, but your first glimpse should be arriving shortly. Today's shipment is arriving earlier because they're bringing a special guest."
"Or, new resident, you should say~!" Chiron stopped eyeing the massive space to finally gaze upon one of the few servants in the area. The one who spoke approached them in her traditional battle attire, but kept a clipboard hugged to her renaissance garb. Da Vinci eyed the new pair and smiled. "Two on October second, and one on the first a day, if we'll still count the Valkyrie triplets as one servant… Will your streak continue tomorrow~?"
"I don't know what deity is smiling down on me, but I'm grateful for their offerings," he nodded back with a smile, took a few steps forward to stand beside her, and motioned. "Allow me to introduce you to Chaldea's Genius Director, Leonardo Da Vinci."
"So you really were a woman," Achillies mumbled lightly, and she merely smirked back at him.
"No, I'm a genius~! Gender doesn't make a difference~!" she replied back happily. Behind her, a battle-clad Chacha strolled up looking forcibly prim, prideful, and proper, but the inventor took no notice. "I see we've finally gotten the legendary Achilles and Chiron I've heard so much about, but which is which, I wonder… I would have thought one of you would be half horse~!"
"If I choose, I can shapeshift into my real form. But it's harder to hide my identity like that," the archer offered with a friendly smile. His unique personal skill was enormously flexible like that. "...Not that I had any intention of doing so from my allies."
Achilles still stared in mild confusion. "How'd you know though...?"
That's when Gudao chuckled, pulled his smart phone out of his pocket, and began tapping the screen. "It wasn't a guess. Quetzalcoatl spoiled it for everyone after she met you."
"Oh… those new smart phones again," Chiron noted as Gudao finally presented it to them. A few comments under a status were displayed on its screen.
Goddess of Lucha
Just met the two new heroes! Achilles and Chiron are quite hunky! They even agreed to wrestle me!
Gabby
You said they were hot? I'm asking for a friend.
Valeria
You didn't try to suplex them on the spot right?
Goddess of Lucha
Val no! That's reserved for Merlin :) :) :)
"You'll grow accustomed to Thronebook soon enough~…" Da Vinci waved off happily as Gudao put his phone away.
"I'm sure we will. I'm Chiron, and this is my student Achilles," the archer noted as he gestured between himself and his student with his promising smile. He withheld a chuckle as Da Vinci hummed and quickly inspected his backside, where she found nothing but his small horse-like tail of lofty hair. He chuckled. "We look forward to lending our strength alongside you and the others in battle."
"No, no, no! More respect for Chacha in the introduction!" the berserker finally spoke up, drawing a curious stare from Achilles. She blinked, then lightly pouted as Da Vinci and Gudao chuckled. "Chacha deserves more respect! To meet with Chacha is a great honor on you and your family! The beautiful and-"
"Would you like some starbursts?" Gudao quickly deflected as he reached into his pocket and produced some of the candy. Instantly, and to Chiron's amusement, Chacha melted into childish excitement as she jumped beside Gudao.
She quickly took the candy and began unwrapping them. "Chacha will accept these tributes! Your interruption is forgiven!"
"But as a child, you should really be in school with the others. Skipping on learning can't be forgiven," Da Vinci teased as she strolled back over.
The berserker only huffed and clutched her handfuls of candy. "Chacha is a grown and knowledgeable beauty! There is nothing more Chacha needs to learn!"
Expectantly, Gudao and Achilles turned to Chiron. Da Vinci stared too, but her attention was divided between a curious, tablet-like device and him. As a famed teacher, he was not about to disappoint. "Real knowledge is to know the extent of one's ignorance. There's always something to learn, Chacha."
"…How insolent." It would have sounded like a prideful insult had it not come from the high-pitched and adorable berserker. "Chacha does not like repeating herself!"
"But Chacha sure loves repeating her own name," Achilles pointed out, which made her pout again. The others chuckled, which coerced her into eating the first starburst to sate herself. In the tiny pause, Achilles turned to glance at approaching footsteps from the large, truck-sized entrance they came from.
Da Vinci, after handing Gudao four new key cards, newly forged from her tablet, glanced over too. She smiled, "Ah… Miss Aozaki's escorts have arrived."
Chiron glanced over, but they were wrapped up in their own conversation at the moment. Shiki appeared first in a vibrant blue kimono with a teal sash. She was smirking and talking to Tomoe beside her, who wore her own red kimono with a white flower pattern. Vernier trailed them respectfully in an emerald business suit with two other formally dressed mages; He quickly surmised they were the Mage's Association investigation team still working through the avalanche of documents.
Da Vinci glanced back to them, then to their new arrivals. "You'll meet everyone soon enough. We're all very relaxed here~! …Oh, looks like the Angel has arrived."
Chiron wondered for a moment if they were talking about a servant until Da Vinci raised her own wrist-mounted intercom. It beeped three times, followed by a voice. "Hermes One to Chaldea. We've just crossed through the field."
She depressed it. "Pad one is already open. Land at your leisure~!"
There was another confirmation beep, then Da Vinci dropped her arm to smile at the guests again. Chacha cheered first. "Yay! The long-awaited Oda clan shipment is here!"
"It's been two days since your aunt placed the order, Chacha," Gudao teased, earning him another small pout. He merely turned to the Greek heroes and ignored it. "I'll be showing you how you can place orders later. It's just a few extra steps more than the usual process. But, I do have your room keys!"
They'd only been here so long, and there was already so much offered to servants. Chiron was beyond impressed. Even compared to what Yggdmillenia offered, Chaldea seemed to serve the servants. It was a nice change of pace, but one he would relish humbly. There was still much to understand and grow used to before he settled in as comfortably as the other servants. By the looks of it, it never took long.
He had the strange feeling despite his comfort with simplicity, he may give in to a bit of luxury in these walls.
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They'd only just finished touring the Library, Salon de Marie and the Recording Studio, yet there were still more indulgences to see. It was baffling how much was offered, and to what extents some servants went to increase it. There certainly was much to relish in, but he was still a simple individual at heart. Material trinkets and extravagance could be relaxing comfort in moderation, but he didn't need that to live.
Though he only had one real wish, it was accompanied by the simplest of desires beyond teaching and learning. His bonds with those he's taught and befriended weighed far more than any material possession. While some could supposedly spend hours bathing in luxury, he only hoped to spend the same amount of time in good company. Even teaching new students was a natural happiness and satisfaction that no amount of gold could ever replace for him.
Which was why, despite the allure of these facilities, he'd looked forward to nothing except one fateful encounter ever since Gudao dropped his name… and now, the towering legend stood before him again. They'd only taken their first steps into the Agora, but that's when he caught his first glimpse. Their eyes had made contact, and the ferocious looking berserker had frozen instantly.
…Well, as ferocious as anyone could gauge from the massive Heracles in an oversized red Hawaiian shirt and white board shorts. Achilles stood with both amusement and wonder, but Chiron felt a mix of emotions within as Heracles' strode slowly past the unusual fountain. Under staff guidance, a few robots went about their business of arranging Halloween decorations, but attention still flocked their way in the form of fleeting glances.
Gudao, expecting what was coming, had held himself a few steps back, but watched curiously. Achilles still stood at his teacher's side in support, but the archer wouldn't need it. Even with the berserker's imposing figure, he could read the air like few others. There was no hostile intent etched anywhere onto that firm expression. To many, flinching would be natural at the approach of the seemingly gray-skinned demon, but Chiron was a calm pasture.
The silence echoed profoundly, but Chiron cast is aside. "Fate saw fit for us to meet again. I was told you were one of the first to come?"
His only response was a small grunt and an accompanying nod that put Achilles on slight edge. For Chiron, it only made the disappointment that welled within bud; It's as Gudao said. He couldn't speak like some other berserkers. No doubt, he would've liked a clearer and possibly eloquent answer on what was inevitably coming, but the cards had been dealt.
He withheld his sigh, but finally offered a small smile. "It's good to see you again, my student. You were always a star pupil, so I have no doubt you've helped Chaldea in its time of need."
Mutely, the berserker lowered his head slightly, though his expression barely changed. Achilles blinked, but Chiron read it like a book as Heracles let out a hushed growl. It was hardly imposing, yet a genuine message was written in his mind without words. Their eyes met again, and though the berserker growled to make Achilles stare in concern, Chiron listened intently and patiently, but frowned.
"…No, Heracles. I'm not angry with you, but I am disappointed in how you handled that entire situation. Your motivation to help Prometheus was compassionate, but your actions were less than ideal. And I do believe we've had many lessons about what troubles that temper of yours may bring."
His declaration made Achilles turn to him in surprise, but then he gazed back at Heracles as he quickly knelt before him. With hands on his lap and head hung lower, the rider could only stare in surprise at the familiar pose. It was a seating position Chiron often instructed them to take when being lectured, but a head hung low was a sign of apology if he was scolding them. Even with his mad enhancement, it seemed his mind might have more clarity than they both suspected.
That, or it was so heavily ingrained into his instinctual being.
"I understand, Heracles. You're still as apologetic now as you were then," Chiron offered back as a solemn smile slowly surfaced. "You didn't mean to strike me, but I hope you learned your lesson that day. I hope even with your current state you're still determined to learn and better yourself... Somehow."
Heracles grunted and growled again. Chiron merely sighed. "I see. That's all any can hope for until you find a saner state… Please, bury your worries. I never held a grudge against you, and never will. Mistakes happen."
Though the large man bowed further, he growled lightly and nodded again. After a louder growl and grunt, his eyes glinted with sudden resolve. Though the act was unreadable to many, Chiron was a wise Centaur given the knowledge of many. He understood it, and he couldn't help but smile sadly. "…Yes. It pains me I had to give it up. It meant a lot to me, but don't let it weigh you down… I'm ashamed to admit it's my selfish wish, but I'm happy you wish to help me regain it."
"Your sacrificed immortality?" Achilles quietly asked, and both Heracles and Chiron nodded. Suddenly, Achilles eyes were filled with equal parts realization and determination. "If teacher wishes for it, I'll gladly help too! You've done so much for your students, it's only right we help you with any little request!"
Chiron wouldn't call it an easy request, but their mutual nod made him smile with growing delight. Every bond he ever made was cherished, including the one given by his otherwise cold parents. Though he never knew them, that immortality was their sole precious gift he wanted to hold again; His last link to them, lost only by an accidental placed arrow from his frantic student. To hear both his students wanted to help him find a way… truly, teaching kept giving more rewards than he ever expected.
"Thank you. Both of you. I've been blessed to raise such wonderful students."
Heracles raised his head. Chiron could almost see a hopeful and satisfied glint behind the swirls of madness in his firm eyes. To both their surprise, Heracles smiled lightly too. Chiron couldn't keep his from growing. "We've been given a new chance, so let's make the best of it. I doubt you need any lessons, but I hope I can still lend you my strength and wisdom in the days to come."
With a quick and content grunt and a happy nod, Heracles stretched his open hand out. Chiron happily reached out and grasped the large hand. Gudao clapped and smiled as he finally approached, but Heracles released his grip to stare at Achilles with a slight tilt of his head. The rider chuckled, jabbed a thumb at himself, and held his other hand out. "Heracles! It's an honor to meet another one of teacher's legendary students! I'm Achilles!"
With an eager and satisfied grunt, Heracles smirked lightly as they grasped hands and shook. After the brief gesture, Heracles pulled himself back to his full stature, but Chiron turned to Gudao. "You didn't have to stand back so far again."
"Oh, no no, please! I try my best not to get involved with personal affairs…" Gudao replied sheepishly as he scratched the back of his head. "It makes me feel rude. I'm still just an outsider, master or not. I only get involved if things go really south."
He was about to compliment the merit of his respectful stance, but a curious bell rang from one of the distant rooms. On the wall beside its double doors, there was a decorated bulletin board with several cartoon-like pictures on it; He had a hunch what that room was, but he got his answer quickly. There was suddenly a loud cheer of children, followed by a tiny flood that poured from the opening doors seconds later.
One girl cheered louder than most. "Last one to the cove pays for our ice cream!"
Chiron and Achilles stared in amused bewilderment at the gaggle of young girls in identical school uniforms. Their little white dress shirts were coupled with matching jackets that had black outlines; The Chaldean logo was over their hearts. Their equally black-and-white plaid ties matched their skirts. To Chiron's amusement, they really were all servants, but his eyes locked onto the leading one as she raced towards the club's entrance.
"Weekend! Weekend!" Jack cried happily as she kept her hands grasping the straps of her black backpack. He knew Assassin of Black was here, but this was like a totally different person. She actually looked like a happy child now instead of the devious, precise murderer he'd encountered before. He wondered how their meeting would go, but it would clearly come later. She disappeared through the door, followed quickly by Yedda, Janna, and Paul. Nursery Rhyme tailed the group while pouting adorably.
To Chiron and Achilles' surprise, the last two ran towards them. As Kuro noticed the two new servants first, Illyasviel waved happily. "Berserker! Already dressed for sailing?"
A lighter, almost vibrant grunt quickly answered. Chiron gazed to the towering man, and failed to hide his wondrous smile as the giant strode over to them, and as gently as possible, scooped both of them up into his arms. They quickly scrambled onto his shoulders like clockwork; This was undeniably routine. Even Achilles stared at how the berserker felt like a calm lake with the two children carefully perched on his shoulders.
That's when Illyasviel blinked and finally noticed him and his other student. "Oh! Hi! Are you new servants?"
"Who else could they be, Illya? Sheesh… didn't you read Gudao's status?" Kuro quickly deadpanned, and earned a light groan from her sister.
"You're not supposed to be using your phone in class! Fujimura-sensei told you to stop that!"
Kuro only smiled deviously. "Oh? You're going to snitch on me now after you said nothing all morning? You're an accomplice now, Illya! You'd be in as much trouble as me!"
"How do you always corner me so…!?" Illyasviel pouted and fumed, but Heracles growled lightly between them; It sounded like a chuckle, which made Chiron's smile brighten. So even in his state, Heracles had managed to form a bond so profound and inspiring. He looked like their guardian, which he never doubted the demi-god could become one day. Even the glint in his firm eyes wrote volumes of what grew beneath his mad enhancement.
After the two finally calmed down, Chiron placed a hand over his heart and bowed gently. "I'm happy Heracles had such wonderful company all this time… I'm Chiron, his teacher."
Illyasviel and Kuro stared at him and blinked. To Chiron's surprise, Illyasviel's backpack shook before Ruby popped into view. He barely had a moment to stare at the unique mystic code before it giggled and spoke. "You have no idea who he is, do you? Jackie told you, remember?"
Before Chiron could answer, Achilles gasped loudly. All eyes shot to him, and Chiron quickly braced himself as he spotted the disbelief in his student's eyes. It was almost instinct, but he expected the next part. For some reason, he just felt it was something Achilles would definitely do. And he did.
"You don't know our great teacher Chiron!? He's an unparalleled sage! He's taught so many mighty heroes! No one is as wise or gifted as our teacher! He can shoot five apples with one arrow! Cook a four-course dinner while doing a handstand! Outrun even I at full speed while carrying a boulder!"
"Um, that's not quite…" Chiron began lightly, but Achilles just kept going.
"Teacher is capable of doing everything incredibly! He's an ace of all trades!" Well, that's wasn't too wrong.
It formed as his high ranked Wisdom of Divine Gift skill. He was capable of doing everything exceptionally, but that didn't mean he had feats that stood out in every feasible category. Amusingly, it didn't seem to matter to Achilles, though he was definitely going to have a lesson for him about exaggerations. "His own feats tower as high as his students but history didn't record it properly!? Even I must feel humbled and tiny in my teacher's presence!"
Kuro scrunched her eyes and blinked. "Uhhh… So who are you? We're not very good at history."
Heracles, Gudao, and Chiron shared a slightly exasperated, but amused, glance as Achilles was only incited with further disbelief.
¨·..·¨·..·¨·..·¨(¯ˆ·.¸ VI ¸.·ˆ¯)¨·..·¨·..·¨·..·¨
Ten minutes later, they finally entered Club Cove after finishing their tour of Chaldea's mall. The Arcade was a curious room that didn't interest him too much, but they clearly saved the best for last. The warm beach outside the windows beckoned to them with cawing gulls and the briny smell of the distant, lapping waves. It was certainly a different sort of picturesque compared to the often rocky, but equally scenic, Greek shores.
For now, they remained in the club, where Elizabeth's newly recorded pop covers played softly over the speakers. Some new flat screens were hung about the place, but they were currently off. The large room remained mostly empty, save for the young girls, newly joined by the Einzbern sisters, who were enjoying their ice cream at the bar. His and Achilles attention occasionally glanced to the curious little Janna, who currently sat towards the end of their cluster by a pile of unmade pumpkins and a tiny scarecrow.
Gudao had just finished his explanation of the resort and the club just as they entered, but then raised a final question. "If you'd like, I can give you a tour of the resort, or you can explore it at your leisure! George's newly-minted brochures are hanging by the door."
"If only the resort remains, I don't think Achilles and I will get lost," Chiron offered with a chuckle as he waved goodbye to Heracles. The big berserker strolled through the club's doors and onto the boardwalk to prepare the boat for the children. "I think we've taken enough of your time as is. You've been nothing but a kind host."
Gudao nodded briefly, glanced to the room quickly, then explained quickly. "The Outdoor Cafeteria is next door. I'm sure you'll be surrounded by new faces in a heartbeat! Now that I've shown you everything we have to offer, I hope you're looking forward to your stay! Thanks again for answering the summons!"
Their parting words were quick and satisfied. Though Gudao soon left, following on the heels of a squadron of Chibi Nobus, the two lingered. In particular, they both stared towards the former Assassin of Black, who had nearly devoured her banana split. Beside her, Nursery Rhyme stared at her sister and sighed. "Two a day, Jackie. Remember what mommy said! You'll run out of vouchers this month!"
As she finished her final spoonful, the assassin frowned lightly at her empty bowl. "But they're tasty… There's so much tasty yummies now that we're back!"
"…Would you like some of mine?" Yedda asked quietly as she gently nudged her bowl to the other assassin beside her. Jack was quick to shake her head.
"But… but that's yours, Yedda. I don't want to be mean," she quickly responded, but still sat their twiddling her thumbs and kicking her legs.
Chiron felt the urge to act. Adept at reading situations, he knew he and Jack did not share too cordial of a last meeting; It could have been worse. He still wished to start them on a new high note, and saw the opportunity like a miner to diamonds. He took his first few steps across the small dance floor, but Achilles gently raised a hand. Chiron blinked, but Achilles smiled lightly. "I'll get this, teacher."
"I didn't think you were good with kids," Chiron noted, but Achilles only smirked.
"I'm not, but I know what you would do. I'll use some of my quota for them. You should save your own to treat yourself! You deserve a lot too, teacher!"
Warmed by his words, he smiled and gestured in allowance. Achilles walked off proudly and called out to the bartender robot, which instantly caught the girls attention. Though he didn't listen in from the distance, he smiled when Jack started cheering happily with glittering eyes. Then there was that glint in Kuro's eye as she begged too. She was quickly followed by the other girls as they pled for more ice cream from him. Overwhelmed, Achilles glanced back to Chiron for support, but then quickly began succumbing to their requests.
Chiron couldn't help but laugh. Achilles, always the hero, vagabond, and warrior, was inexperienced when it came to youths and family. He was at least taking a page out of his book and being compassionate. Without a doubt, he understood the rider was driven to do this by a mix of reasons, but appreciation shined above the rest… and maybe he wanted to show off a bit too. That was Achilles, through and through.
As he pondered walking over to introduce himself too, he felt a powerful presence enter the cove behind him from the Arcade entrance. A shiver nearly ran down his spine as a quick gasp, and a happy voice, rang out; The nostalgia of the tone embraced him like the warmth of a fireplace on a snowy night. "Chiron!? Chiron~! It's you~!"
He turned with a smile, but was instantly caught in the embrace of the goddess. He laughed as he hugged back, "Blessed Olympus! Artemis! And still just as enthusiastic!"
"Of course~!" the bubbly goddess answered as she broke the embrace to float within arm's reach. As traditional, and from what he always recalled, her dresses were always far too tight and form hugging. Even the cerulean tie-dyed Bohemian wrap dress seemed to hug her far more than it should, but his eyes remained ever-respectfully up and smiling. He was just happy to see one of his own former teachers again. "I was looking all over for you after Quetzy dropped your names!"
"More like, she kept getting distracted half the time in passing conversations." The second voice wasn't recognizable, and caught him off guard. He stared curiously at the moving, tiny bear that appeared on her shoulder in a red and yellow Hawaiian shirt. It nodded to him and smiled. "Hello, fellow constellation!"
Confused at the greeting, Artemis giggled then quickly grabbed Orion, much to his dismay. She then hugged him excruciatingly tight, yet it seemed like it was supposed to be an act of affection. She grinned, all while Orion was trying to scramble out from between her arms and bosom. "This is my darling, Orion! We were summoned together~! Isn't that wonderful~!?"
"More like I was trying to be summoned and you hijacked the spiritual core! Why must I be continually tormented for that little bit of arrogance…!?" Though she smiled, she squeezed him tighter as his eyes widened in grief. "Sorry, sorry, sorry! It was a joke! I said I was sorry!"
'So a dual summoning of sorts…?' Fate played one curious twist by summoning them together. Maybe it was continued divine punishment. It wasn't too far-fetched from their hectic era. Thus, another curiosity for him to understand was born… but curiosities aside, he remained content there was another familiar face. "Would it be safe to presume you're an archer? I imagine we'd make a formidable team at range."
"Ohh~! Yes, yes~! You, me, Darling, and cute little Atalanta can have such wonderful talks and walks and fun missions together!" Before he could ponder too long about how his meeting with his war's other companions may go, Artemis squealed. Jack and Nursery Rhyme had quickly run over to hug her, and she happily swung them around in the air; Orion was squeezed between them all. "Hi, cuties~! How were my little sugar plums today!? Did you learn a lot in school?"
As the girls answered over each other, Chiron blinked, but smiled. That was when Jack finally glanced over to him. He paused for a moment as she recognized him, but his hesitations vanished when the assassin smiled and waved. "Hello, Mister Chiron! We're fighting together this time!"
"Hmm… I see my student told you about me," he chuckled lightly as the assassin giggled and nodded. With her cheery attitude, it seemed everything was going to go smoothly on this front. He looked up to gaze at his student, then blinked again as his eyes shifted between him and the new arrival. He'd been too preoccupied talking with Artemis that he hadn't seen the other aforementioned archer walk in from the other door.
Now, standing with discernible exasperation with arms crossed over her vibrant emerald sundress, Atalanta quietly talked with Achilles by the other girls. His student looked eager and proud; How could he not after how he occasionally gushed about her during their tour? But there was genuine affection and respect in his voice whenever he did. Chiron just found it amusing she seemed so tired in turn, but he always did like turning up the boasting with girls he liked.
"So are you going to teach us too?" Jack asked as Artemis finally placed them down and landed several precisely aimed headpats.
With his attention returned, he smiled back. "I could, but I'll have to give it some thought. I'm sure you girls have enough teachers."
"Miss Blavatsky is nice and cute and smart, but Miss Fujimura uses too many cat examples," Nursery Rhyme lightly groaned out. He couldn't help but chuckle at the childish response.
His eyes then caught onto Artemis, who'd fallen unusually stern. Even Orion seemed unsettled, but the goddess didn't care. She only gazed powerfully towards Achilles, who remained oblivious. Like sharpened blades, they cut into his form, and her sunny presence filled with chilly clouds. It wasn't hostility, but he could sense disapproval and growing contempt. He knew exactly why too.
"Atalanta still holds onto her vow?" he quickly asked as Jack and Nursery Rhyme glanced to each other in confusion.
Artemis' nod was stiff and tense. "She does, and I will do everything to help her keep it. My beautiful, cherished devotee will not be shamed again! With my own hands and power, I'll ensure it! A goddess must offer no less for someone who consistently devoted so much of their life and belief to her! I swear on my title, he will not lay a hand on her!"
"…You're pretty hot when you're serious," Orion noted quietly, but it didn't send her into a giggling fit of affection; She was dead serious, and Chiron's student was in the crosshairs. Chiron felt compelled to at least disarm future hostility before a Greek divine made another mess, but he had to act right. Their mythology was well known for rampant chaos. He wanted it to go smoother since their era had passed, but it would be difficult. In the end, divines were still divines…
But he didn't need to. He caught the signs as soon as he glanced to the little girls. They were adorable and young, but they were clearly smart. They shared a quick look, like two skilled robbers about to pull off the heist of the century. Their tiny smirks sang of cunning and skill, before they melted back into adorable smiles as he watched the very beginning of a long-awaited master plan.
"Goddessmother! Did you meet Mister Achilles yet?" Nursery Rhyme asked happily as she tugged on Artemis' dress. Either she and Jack ignored every word, or didn't care, because their eyes twinkled with growing delight. "He was really nice to us! He gave us all his allowance of ice cream for the month!"
'…They convinced you to do that?' Chiron wondered with growing mirth. Apparently his student was terrible at negotiations with children… or Chaldea's children were a far, far more formidable and adorable force to be reckoned with than that little glimpse showed.
"It's Achilles! He's here, he's here!" Jack chimed in happily as she bounced on her tip toes. Her cheerful mirth was contagious. "He's even nicer than we thought! I like him! I really do! Do you think he'll make a great Daddy? He's going to be our Daddy, right?"
"Ohhhhhh, of course he will~!" Artemis squealed as she reached down to hug the kids again. They fell into giggles… all while Orion gawked in total disbelief.
Chiron blinked, but laughed, as Orion slammed a furry fist repeatedly onto her head. "What the hell!? That was way too fast, you idiot! A total one-eighty just like that!?"
"Abuse! Domestic abuse and cursing in front of the children!? Darling, what is wrong with you!?"
"With me!? What's wrong with you!? Where'd all that sexy and unyielding resolve go!?"
They quickly devolved into a yelling mess, but two kids merely laughed and raced back towards the others. Though he should be stopping the quarrel, he watched as the two girls changed course and caught Atalanta in a hug. With the final visuals in place, Chiron slowly nodded in understanding as a small smirk crossed his face. 'I see… so Queen Antoinette's rumor mill included that one, did it?'
It seemed the girls really took hold of that idea… and they had more people in their pocket than he realized at first glance. Gudao had made mention several children were adopted, but made no mention to who. It was very clear now that Atalanta was their mom, and though it surprised him, Achilles appeared the most stunned in the distance. Atalanta soon fell into equal surprise as the girls supposedly told their mother what Achilles did for them.
Slowly, his smirk filled with amusement as the two smiling children hugged their mom again, then ran back to their friends. Atalanta looked less apprehensive, but still hesitant. A surprised Achilles was trying to piece together what he just saw. Chiron had to withhold his chuckle. He quietly pondered if he should do his part by letting Achilles eat lunch with her instead, or at least monitor him to ensure he didn't accidentally wreck the girls' secret plan with his own hands.
As the bickering pair simmered down beside him, he smiled expectantly. 'If those kids want it… perhaps you might just get that wish, Achilles.'
¨·..·¨·..·¨·..·¨(¯ˆ·.¸ VII ¸.·ˆ¯)¨·..·¨·..·¨·..·¨
Lunch was just beginning, yet it already felt like quite the party under the Cabana's leafy roof. Though Achilles drew most of the attention, Chiron found himself fairly swamped with greetings and small talk. Much like the grills and tables held a massive variety, he'd already received a sampler platter from the horde of new allies. His thirst for knowledge and wisdom morphed into an interest to understand who the real people were behind the legendary titles. Amidst the smoky aromas and music on the speakers, new bonds would certainly form, just as old ones were addressed.
~~Stylin', wilin', livin' it up in the city~~
~~Got Chucks on with Saint Laurent~~
~~Got kiss myself, I'm so pretty~~
He'd only finished talking with the ever-regal Vlad a minute ago, but he'd quickly found himself dragged to a new table by another familiar face. Astolfo sat beside him, amusingly in a pink-and-white, polka-dotted bikini with a frilly skirt bottom. Across from him, Siegfried sat calmly in an emerald t-shirt with the German flag on it; The text beneath it said 'Oktoberfest Drinking Team.'
Rounding out the group he'd newly acquainted himself with was an equally energetic magus in an unbuttoned black Hawaiian shirt, who was going through the plate of french fries between them like he'd been lost in the Sahara. Though Flat was an interesting sight, as was the ever-bubbly Astolfo, his curiosity remained on the saber. His much more relaxed demeanor beckoned to him; He wanted to learn and know who he was finally allowing himself to be, but there were many ways to do so indirectly. "So you two had a vacation? The ones Chaldea allows?"
"Mhmm~!" Astolfo answered for him first, but he couldn't help but smile. "Brynhildr and Arthur came with us! We did so much drinking! I didn't know Oktoberfest was so lively!"
"Astolfo found himself approached by a few suitors," Siegfried pointed out with a gentle twitch of his lips that formed a handsome smirk. "One was particularly enamored."
The rider blushed, making Siegfried and Flat chuckle. "You were getting surrounded by girls too! And then you just tried to turn them down nicely and they just kept fawning over your mysteriousness!"
"I want to blame the alcohol, but German women can easily hold their own," Siegfried responded with a small sigh, but chuckled again. "...This is making me thirsty."
"Good thing we brought back those kegs!" Astolfo laughed, then elbowed Chiron lightly. "You should have seen the look on the Vigil pilot's faces when we showed them what we were bringing back!"
Before Chiron could ask, Flat finally stopped destroying the pile of food to stretch his arms out wide. "They brought a shipping container's worth! And Astolfo got sacks of candy too! Haribos and Toblerones! And even one of those fancy getups with the feather hat!"
"It's called lederhosen, silly!" Astolfo chimed in, and they quickly found themselves enveloped in an unbelievably energetic conversation. They were certainly two peas in a pod, but he was glad to see how free Siegfried was. From his expressions to his conversation, it seemed he, and by slight extension Gordes, wasn't holding him back anymore. He felt like another person, if still a bit stiff; Time would certainly fix that.
In the small pause as Siegfried took a sip from his souvenir wooden stein, he caught Jeanne further away making yet another watchful glance over them. He knew it was really for Astolfo, but he couldn't help but chuckle and wave at her sheepish smile. She quickly returned to talking with her own group of close friends. In truth, he was glad she seemed less duty bound too. This place was certainly doing wonders for familiar faces, so he was quickly learning.
Achilles too, from what he glanced. Near the barbeque line, Achilles, though straight faced, was having a small conversation with Amakusa. With hands crossed over his chest, he was clearly still mistrusting, and after what he did to his master in the last war, it was understandable. Nevertheless, the ruler's expression seemed far less constructed then the few glimpses he remembered. He was genuinely content and even apologetic as he stood relaxed in his usual black priest outfit.
The same may even be said for Semiramis, who stood at his side, once more, like a sentinel. Yet, even her facial features seemed less antagonistic; Her very fashionable off-shoulder, white chiffon dress with accompanying black sash helped make her look less intimating too. If anything, she was just wary for the man whose hand she was currently holding. At the very least, they were talking civilly with no weapons drawn, but he was still keeping tabs.
"No need to worry. Karna would be the first to act if Amakusa was scheming anything," Siegfried reassured, and Chiron smiled bashfully at having been caught. The saber merely shrugged. "He's been cooperative and conflicted."
"Just as long as Achilles understands that. He's the concerned one," he replied back, then took a quick glance at Astolfo and Flat checking something on the former's phone. Was that sounds of a monster roaring on it? Whatever they were watching, it made Chiron realize he currently wasn't being assaulted by new introductions. He glanced around calmly, then stood. "I'll take advantage of the calm in the storm."
Siegfried chuckled. "Indeed. It may not last long. Shall I be your escort?"
"You don't have to watch over these two? I heard they can get pretty crazy." Chiron asked as the saber stood, revealing his jeans.
His companion only shook his head as he motioned to the line. "Quite an understatement... But let's hope for the best, ja?"
¨·..·¨·..·¨·..·¨(¯ˆ·.¸ VIII ¸.·ˆ¯)¨·..·¨·..·¨·..·¨
Lunch had been quite the whirlwind indeed. From now approachable former rivals, to many new faces like the curious Oni, and finally the staff themselves? He had a lot to learn, but it was easy to get used to. But that would come in time.
For now, he took Gabrielle's suggestion and relaxed for the day in the best way he knew.
After he and Achilles finished looking around the resort while catching up on old times, his student left to check out his room. Though Chiron still held the card keys Da Vinci gave him, the room could wait. Planning on furniture would wait too. Apparently every new arrival was fairly eager to check out their room, but he would be the first to put it off as he sat in a grassy patch, surrounded by tropical flowers, a pristine sky, and the occasionally passing bird or butterfly.
The outdoors… this was his true home. Even just sitting on the grass brought a wave of fond memories lecturing his dear students for hours. Though he was often regarded as a legendary instructor, there was no better teacher than nature itself. This was where he found true comfort, even if this was a mere flawless fabrication. The only way it could be improved was with good company, which was not short on this first day.
"Oh no! Please don't!" Serenity begged gently with a small smile. "It's still wet… There's a real one over there, just for you!"
Chiron gazed at her easel, where a monarch butterfly grew attracted to her new close up of a red hibiscus. It fluttered gently around, all while the assassin watched a bit nervously. A gentle breeze, which gently swayed the hem of her cerulean off-shoulder beach dress, finally coaxed it back to its companions. It was seconds away from being shooed by Rena, who hovered gently beside her while holding her palette in a robotic arm. Its eyes bounced happily. "Crisis averted!"
"It would have been an easy fix for a painting master." Serenity turned to look at their fourth companion, who was happily making a small crown out of some nearby yellow flowers; They'd grow back quickly, so he was told. Chiron also turned to Frankenstein, whose simple yellow sundress and white shawl shined as brightly as her innocent smile. Humming gently to the song Rena was playing on her speakers, she glanced up to the painter and giggled. "Oh, don't even try. Everyone loves your work!"
"You've got an eye for this," Chiron agreed as he eyed the flower. It wasn't a flawless mirror, but its surreal look made it more pleasing to the eye. "Was it a hobby in your past life?"
She shook her head, but smiled generously. "I only started when I came to Chaldea."
"She's only been painting for ten months!" Rena called out. "Every new one is like a masterpiece!"
"So far in so little time… A talented learner. Most impressive, Serenity," Chiron complimented again, and she blushed happily at the praise. He then turned to Frankenstein to offer his smile. "To you as well, Fran. Enjoying life without a care in the world?"
"I couldn't be happier!" Her happy nod and smile could melt even hardened spines. In truth, he always wondered what rested within the heart of the berserker who spent most of her time in the Yggdmillenia gardens. Now, with her mad enhancement diminished, he was given an answer, and it was as beautiful as he could have hoped. It was even flawless as he eyed the glinting diamond ring on her left hand, one she affectionately and often brushed with her other hand.
"So when's the marriage?" She smiled to him, touched her ring again, and let out another happy giggle.
"Sometime next year. We're thinking spring, but I want to be called his fiancé for a little longer because I'll be his wife forever~," she answered blissfully. She finished one final weave in the crown, then quickly stood and placed it on Chiron's head. He merely accepted it with grace, and made a motion of a bow towards her as she sat back down. "I'll be adding you to the guest list~! You were very kind to all of us."
He nodded graciously again with a touched expression, then noted. "A lovely day awaits, I'm sure, and I'm blessed I may be present. I see planning is well in the works then?"
"Only the location, guests, groomsmen, and bridal party for now," Serenity answered as she finished a new highlighting accent on the petals. "I'm helping her plan."
"She volunteered so she can ensure she and Tyler would walk together in the ceremony," the berserker teased, and drew a playfully narrowed glare from her best friend. It collapsed, and they soon fell into giggles. "I would have put you two together anyway! You're too cute together!"
"When he's not being such a dorky goofball," she sighed, though a warm smile and Rena's giggling betrayed the real feelings; Not like Serenity was hiding them to begin with.
They fell into small girl talk, but he didn't feel like a true outsider. Far too often, he'd sat with students and watched them talk like he wasn't there; It never made him uncomfortable. It only warmed him seeing people bond and socialize happily. It was a gift of peace he'd always relish.
Thus, while joining in at parts, Chiron continued to quietly sit and keenly observe, as he'd done so many times before. He could spend hours in calm conversation about anything, just as he could do the same studying and teaching. The passing of information, of any sort, bore plentiful fruits of happiness. Among nature, it only radiated with a greater warmth in his heart. Certainly, there was as much to learn here as there was to enjoy.
¨·..·¨·..·¨·..·¨(¯ˆ·.¸ IX ¸.·ˆ¯)¨·..·¨·..·¨·..·¨
As the sun began to set on the resort's horizon to paint the shore with amber hues, Chiron stayed leaned against the boardwalk rails. Groups of servants were clustering on beach blankets in preparation for dinner. The growing smell of Chilean and Argentinian barbeque was threading into the perfect lasso that ensnared the noses of many, including his. Some macaws called out as they flew overhead. A few children ran past like a blur as they weaved between the crowd…
"This place is wonderous…" he murmured with a pleasant smile as he gazed over the crowds at the outdoor cafeteria. Just past a smiling Boudica, Parvati, and Marie, who were gushing with Elsa as she held her baby, he observed a pair of heads with his keen eyes. Achilles was talking with Atalanta again, and to his amusement, the huntress didn't seem as standoffish as she did in their first meeting. His student looked to be turning on a bit too much charm tho-
"Too many search for immortality, but it's not often one searches to regain it. How intriguing." Chiron blinked, but turned to his new company who'd approached near-undetected on his right with unbelievable grace and skill. She was one of the few he hadn't met yet, but he'd certainly heard of and been pointed to; There were just too many to meet and greet in his first few hours.
But finally, the Celtic legend approached first. In her favorite alluring magenta bikini and translucent, matching beach skirt, she stood as the perfect blend of goddess-like beauty and martial prowess. To many, she would have been the sweetest honey by looks alone, but her beauty and renown was second to what really hooked him: Her presence. Her body radiated with overwhelming wisdom and tints of ancient, but somehow… diminished pride.
Just the first glance, and Scathach was already a curiosity he regretted not meeting earlier.
"Word travels fast, I see," Chiron noted calmly with a small smile as she took a simple sip from her glass of red wine. "Does Marie really gush that much?"
"More than anyone can believe on their first day, but no. It was your student. I'd say he's as loud-mouthed and prideful as Setanta," she answered, but then smiled with light amusement. "It's no wonder they're getting along so well."
He chuckled lightly. "I might need to talk with him then. All this boasting… I might not live up to my name at this rate."
"You're the centaur Chiron. I'm sure you'll live up to your name just fine," Scathach countered, though he caught the faint tendrils of carefully concealed interest past her smooth and wise voice. Only his fine senses and accumulated wisdom let him pick up the notes, but he stashed it away. "Your lost immortality… You want it back, do you? Funny... I'd offer you mine if I could trade it so easily."
Though it was offered in jest, he felt the faintest vibes of serious intent coupled with… jarring uncertainty. It was a few pebbles compared to a mountain, but he felt it in her voice. He blinked curiously, but paused before answering. "I'd love its return, but you wish to part with yours?"
"I've lived far too long. Too many centuries, millennia…" she answered honestly. He found no fault or vagueness hidden beneath as she sighed. "The castle was unbearably quiet without students and proper challengers. Time soon blended together."
"That'd wear on the strongest of hearts and souls." In truth, it was a nightmare Chiron couldn't imagine. Everything branched into good and bad possibilities; It was rare for anything to break that. He understood what terrible consequences immortality could bring, including outliving those you've come to love so many times over. Yet, it didn't stop his own pursuit for his parents' lost gift.
It didn't mean he couldn't pity her plight. He smiled calmly, and gestured around. "At least you're not alone anymore. You've got all the challengers you could hope for… within reason, I believe?"
She smiled, truthfully and earnestly. "…Yes. I can't argue with that. I'm happy I've come here, but not everything lasts. Chaldea isn't immortal. It's another blink in time."
"But Chaldea can be immortal if you let it live forever," Chiron offered as he pointed at his heart. He'd been here but a day, yet already, old habits took root. Among another wizened legend, and fellow teacher of heroes, he couldn't help but philosophize. "If I asked, you would answer with all the precious moments you've experienced here. Surely they are many… and surely they've taken root beneath your cracking jaded outlook?"
Quietly, she stared at him with carefully veiled surprise and curiosity. Her aged and experienced eyes glinted with agreement, though. She didn't need any lecturing of any sort; That would have been rude to a prideful Celtic legend. So he only asked what her weary heart already knew. That much he could understand and offer for a beautiful woman who's dealt with immortality's cruelest hand.
With another small smirk, she took a small sip of her wine. "My, my… how very perceptive of you. Even daring, I might add… I can't help but want to fight you."
The excitement in her voice would make anyone less than a towering hero shiver, both with interest and nervousness. He merely caught his first glimpse of the famous Celtic warlust easily. He smiled, and the interested glint in her eye grew. "I can agree to a spar. Would we be holding back?"
"…Not too much." Her smile grew a bit more interested, but keen. "Though you look calm and sincere, you take things seriously when the time comes. You're not one to hold back and insult an earnest fighter. You're kind, but you're a very hard and demanding teacher."
"We share that point," he pointed out with a nod. "Did you hear that from Achilles too?"
"Not in the least. I can just tell, like you can," she pointed out as she finished her wine, just as a robot floated over with a tray, wine bottles, and an offered glass for him. Even as he took the glass, and the robot refilled her own with the right wine, their discerning eyes never left each other. "A teacher is mirrored in their student. Achilles and Heracles wouldn't have been half the legends they were if you were only kind. You care for them, but because you do, you're strict."
"A teacher who cares for their prodigies would never hold back," he declared, and they shared another small smile and glint of agreement. As the robot finished filling his wine glass, she offered her own. They clinked, but their eyes never left each other until they took a sip together. In the small pause of their first conversation, Chiron couldn't help but smile. Barely a day, and he'd found another servant who enticed him so readily and quickly. A rare affinity was born in that moment.
Their sole, first conversation would last well past dinner.
¨·..·¨·..·¨·..·¨(¯ˆ·.¸ X ¸.·ˆ¯)¨·..·¨·..·¨·..·¨
The first tendrils of light were streaking across the sky to paint the puffy clouds as the bird automata began chirping happily. Chiron breathed the next morning's air happily as he walked through the Tropicana forest with his student. On an unseen rocky shore ahead, the trio of musicians played to their hearts' content, joining the melody of wildlife in the forest around them. It almost made it difficult to hold up their conversation, were the topics not wide and even humorous.
"So… Mordred challenged you… to an eating contest?"
Achilles laughed. "I wasn't expecting it either, teacher. Emiya said she takes after her father well."
"But did you win?"
"…I, uh… It was a fluke. I swear next time will be different." Chiron couldn't help but chuckle. That wasn't quite like the rowdy Saber of Red he'd fought with his fists, but without any hesitation or disbelief, he could picture it. Unpredictable was part of her nature.
But speaking of unpredictable... "I saw you and Hector had a little talk at dinner. What happened to avoiding him?"
"...I am," Achilles noted calmly as he scratched the back of his head. "He just came up to apologize, then scampered away... Sheesh. As if that'd make me feel better about that whole war..."
"You have a lot of free time to think about it now, should you choose to," Chiron offered as a vibrant blue bird flew past. He read his student like a book; He didn't want to talk about it, so he left it at one last piece of advice. "Leave your mind open, and listen to your heart and soul's whispers as time goes on."
He only nodded in silence as they strolled calmly. A walk in the woods with company was always a nice way to start the day, so he renewed the tradition in this marvelous place. It opened the mind for the day ahead, and recharged the soul for any tribulation. Besides their first deployment later, he had that spar with Scathach, which was drawing a crowd. He was also going to accompany Vlad to watch his niece's new recording session after. Then there was helping Astolfo and Flat watch over the kids later… his schedule sure filled quickly.
He'd have to work out a routine sooner rather than later, but these pleasant morning walks would form the foundation.
The trees began to grow scarce as they reached the entrance. They tossed a glance to the musicians, who were too busy playing to notice them as they passed a few dozen meters away. Delaqua, Quetzalcoatl, and Spartacus had jogged by only moments before, and he could hear Leonidas' distant commands as he led a morning workout group in the distance. A bit further away, Brynhildr had three new companions to her own polearm class, but he couldn't tell if the Valkyries were helpers or students on first glance.
"Excuse me! Coming in fast!" The two blinked, but barely had time to step to the side as Delaqua flew past like a blur. Chiron and Achilles blinked together; She really was a blur as she moved at blinding speed reminiscent of warriors from their time… but she was a modern, normal human accomplishing that feat.
"Yeaaaaa! Go Val, Go! We're gonna make you a superstar at this rate!" Quetzalcoatl happily cheered as she skipped past. As she raced after her in her vibrant blue tank top and matching white gym shorts, the heavy footfalls of one final companion made them glance back again. They were greeted by the eerie smile of Spartacus again, who waved at them cordially while holding an enlarged stopwatch. It was probably just a battery-operated clock.
"Time is oppressing you, Val! Break the chains of the record's oppression!" Spartacus happily yelled as he thundered by in his own red gym shorts. "Make the impossible possible!"
"…I'll never get used to that smile," Achilles noted with a sigh as they began walking again.
"Better than his anger," Chiron chuckled, all while he gazed around at all the practicing and training groups again. Being around so many early-waking and hardworking individuals was bolstering his resolve. Achilles seemed to sense it as he eyed his teacher carefully. When Chiron's smiling visage finally turned back to his student, he had to withhold a chuckle at how blank-faced the rider was. He was definitely nervous, and he knew why. Still, he teased, "Something wrong, Achilles? Doesn't this almost make you want to train?"
"Er…" he stuttered, and Chiron had to prevent himself from laughing. "You're not thinking of training me your way again… are you?"
At his response, he decided to tease further with a small smirk. "You should know better than to tempt me, Achilles."
"You've taught me so much! I've become a hero thanks to you," he quickly insisted, and Chiron took delight in how unnerved he could often make his students. Even the mighty Heracles, mad enhancement and all, still stared warily at any raised possibility he may train them more. "I'm the famed Achilles!"
"But you could always be better. As I've said before, isn't there always something to learn? Have I not imparted lessons even on opposing sides?"
As Achilles grew increasingly nervous, Chiron decided he'd let him off the hook. He only chuckled and patted his shoulder. Achilles sighed in relief just as the three string players switched to a new song to practice. As much as Chiron was always tempted to rekindle a lost profession, it didn't have to be with his former students. He was beyond proud of them, each and every one… but there was always room for new ones. In Chaldea, there were plenty of new students to teach and learn from in turn.
The eternal exchange of life's wisdom would continue, and he'd relish every new moment of it.