The Stitch Witches storefront was a rainbow of color. With Naomi's return, it even felt warmer for every passing browser or guest. Though the original mass-produced lines remained stacked and placed, they were joined by the new era of fashion designs on display. They came with all the excitement and spontaneous ideas, including a bit of reorganizing every week to make everything fit like a puzzle.
Lunch was just ending, but prompt as ever, Naomi was organizing papers and binders behind the front desk. Usually she'd be in the back helping her staff tailor new masterpieces with her newfound skills, but none were present. They all had the rest of the day off, but that never stopped the dutiful supervisor from squeezing some extra tasks in to make tomorrow a bit easier. Having a bit of surprise assistance helped too.
Though she did feel bad about it. "You two really don't have to help me with-"
"We're business partners. I'll be with you anyway, and the faster we're done here, the sooner we'll be knitting with Boudica and Vlad." Medea countered as her head peered above one of the many racks of clothing. She disappeared again likely to reorganize the dresses, but a giggle echoed from the robed caster; Every servant wore their battle-attire for the later ceremony. "Your work ethic has rubbed off on me anyway."
"I want to be help to you and cousin!" Naomi couldn't help but smile towards the big berserker as he passed by carrying an entire rack of clothes. It would have been easy enough for Medea and Naomi to reorganize for the future fashion display stage, but the childish berserker wanted to spend some time with his cousin for the week. He sure seemed happy with simple labor wearing his dopey smile and humming about butterflies.
Upon reorganizing the order forms, her impulses subtly urged her forward. Before she knew it, she was staring at a small sketch of a prototype dress she'd mocked up. She felt extra confident about this new line, more so than the many others before it. It also served as a good distraction for the undercurrent of concern about this afternoon.
It was far from unusual for Chaldea to get new residents. They'd even gotten some unusual cases that challenged the peace, with some still doing so in lesser ways. Yet, they never had an entire military garrison from another organization. In truth, she was a bit nervous at what may be considering the abrasive nature of some former staff. Soldiers were disciplined, but they also carried their own stigmas.
Yet, so did many servants, like Medea and Vlad, but they proved her fears terribly wrong. She'd held her reservations, but didn't allow it to bother her until today; Concern hugged several others too, she imagined. Nevertheless, she did what many other Chaldeans did: Looked forward and hoped for the best. 'Maybe they'll want clothes too…?'
As she picked up a pencil to adjust a few measurements, she missed Medea's amused approach. "…You can design Chacha's dress tomorrow. You should enjoy your day off."
"But I'm allowed to think!" Medea giggled at Naomi's flustered declaration, and Asterios chuckled too. She never could just 'stop' working, but she did what she loved. The caster could never truly express her relief over the supervisor's phenomenal recovery, but the green-haired woman definitely felt it. Naomi huffed lightly. "She's impossible, so that's why I'm not giving up! My pride as a tailor will be laureled with her praise!"
"She could use more dresses… Not just wear same dress all the time," Asterios agreed as he stared over the many racks of clothing. Medea turned to him with a tiny smile as he carefully peeked at a frilly white princess dress displayed on a mannequin. "One dress not fashionable."
"Not in this day and age," the caster agreed, and he smiled happily. "Even the stiff Valkyries were willing to try."
"You were stiffer, don't forget," Naomi pointed out with a tiny smirk, then earned a playful stink eye from Medea.
"Oh my… Pot calling the kettle black?" It was Medea's turn to smirk lightly as Naomi winced. Asterios only chuckled again. They joined in barely a moment later, distracting them further from any lingering concerns of what may change from this day forth. Yet, it may very well be just another challenge that Chaldea would adapt to once more. It was hardly the first time, and definitely not the last.
With so many different opinions, perspectives, and cultures mixing together, it was nearly guaranteed Chaldea would have devolved into near-anarchy. Even so, they threaded the needle time and time again. Between singularities, there was plenty of downtime for the last bastion of humanity. Despite an uncertain future, they formed a semblance of a new life within Chaldea, their home of precious memories. Here they were a family... an unusual, hectic, and often imperfect one... but that's what made them perfect.
Now it was just a matter of finding out how Vanguard Platoon would balance on their scales.
¨·..·¨·..·¨·..·¨(¯ˆ·.¸ ¸.·ˆ¯)¨·..·¨·..·¨·..·¨
Fragment 86: Our First Impressions
¨·..·¨·..·¨·..·¨(¯ˆ·.¸ ¸.·ˆ¯)¨·..·¨·..·¨·..·¨
It was chilly in the Port, yet Mount Meru's storm gifted a rare respite. Outside the massive open doors, only a light shower of flurries fluttered from the lightened clouds above. Compared to the calmness outside, the giant room was bustling with activity. Newly built robots floated on standby to guide aircraft. At the main entrance, a small cluster of Chaldean residents waited and chatted in anticipation. Some formed pairs on the outskirts.
As she stood in the hallway leading to the Terminal, away from the chunk of battle-ready servants and uniformed employees ahead, Da Vinci giggled. "Guess they get a small welcome party too~…"
"Some just wanted to come see them arrive. Like my King," Lord El-Melloi II commented as he puffed on his cigar. With all the circulating fresh air and accessibility, the Port was becoming one of his favorite thinking spots.
"I don't blame them. Just means some will be better acquainted before the introduction ceremony," Da Vinci offered as David checked his stop watch. She smiled at him. "They're military. They're not going to be late."
"I'm just wondering how early they'll be," he reassured with his own smile. "They have some beautiful girls in their unit."
"You're going to race Fergus for them?" El-Melloi pointed out with a tiny smirk. "…If they'll even allow it. We don't need some scandals between our factions."
The famed artist-inventor nodded slowly. Though there were going to be plenty of rules in place for the arriving Vigil, most had been outlined by Pritchard. If anyone was paranoid about their factions getting along, it was him. She found it respectable, and even a humorous, really. Certainly different from the Mage's Association's little grudge and haughty indifference.
Da Vinci's wrist-mounted intercom finally chimed on. "Hailing Chaldea. Nomad Convoy is approaching the Mount Meru bounded field. ETA, five minutes. Requesting permission to land."
"Permission granted~!" Da Vinci hummed. "Ground crew will guide you in. Welcome to the White Continent~!"
¨·..·¨·..·¨·..·¨(¯ˆ·.¸ III ¸.·ˆ¯)¨·..·¨·..·¨·..·¨
Iskandar's eyes shifted between the gates, much to the amusement of his fellow pharaohs. Even the Greek heroes beside him passed a curious glance at the sheer enthusiasm he exuded; Achilles' presence only added more charcoal. But how could he not be excited? The defensively-armed transporters were cool, but now he was finally going to lay his own eyes on the true gems of a technologically advanced military!
"Iskandar looks like a child at a parade," a voice whispered, making Ozymandias and Nitocris laugh. With a wide grin, Iskandar only glanced to Cleopatra, who blinked at being caught but then smiled. He then tossed a silent glance to his retainer. The caster followed Da Vinci and David towards the front of the gathered crowd just as the first drone of a humming thruster began to echo over the silent air.
It grew rapidly with his excitement, which waned as he spotted the first Angel. By its identifying number, it was just one of their daily delivery transports. That's when his eyes lit up again, making Achilles raise an eyebrow. The king spoke first, "Did the VR stuff come today!?"
"…VR?" Achilles questioned, then flinched as Iskandar grinned towards him. The Greek rider should have been accustomed to this, but the King's idolization of him was on a surprising level. He would never turn down praise for his heroics, but Iskandar treaded a line of comfort Achilles never knew he had… at first. Having the King of Conquerors as a 'huge fan' was quite the compliment, even if he was a curious man.
"Virtual Reality," Chiron answered beside him before Iskandar could chatter giddily. The teacher smiled to his student as Astolfo hardly kept still on his feet nearby. "I overheard some of the employees talking about it. It's a video game type. Similar to an illusion of sorts, if I recall correctly."
"Huh… There sure are a lot of these video games…" Achilles mumbled as the robots guided the angel into the Port. It slipped perfectly through the doors, spun completely around, and slowly lowered itself onto the ground. The hum of the thrusters was loud, but were hardly the deafening blasts of a jetliner. Mechanical arms with landing grips lowered themselves just as the large aircraft reached the pad below.
The few chatter of excitement from the gathered crowd fell thin as the engines powered down, followed quickly by the lowering of the rear ramp. Like a curtain, it unveiled four battle-clad Chaldeans. Billy looked around, blinked, then waved. "Oh…! Howdy, everyone! Welcome party just for us? Y'all are too kind!"
"Of course. Just for you~!" Da Vinci teased back. A few chuckles bloomed from the gathered crowd as Billy moved to pick up and balance a large box all by himself, only for Geronimo to shake his head lightly and move to assist. George and Arjuna made room for a few robots and logistics soldiers to move in and start unloading the supply pallets. Iskandar, along with some of the other avid Chaldean gamers, were trying to peer at the stacked, unmarked crates as if they could spot their order.
Their interest soon fell over the chorus of incoming thrusters. A moment later, the ballet of aircraft approached the other opened doors as robots surged into positioned to guide them in. Two more Angels were the first to slip into their newly designated bays, while Iskandar's gleaming eyes remained locked on the heavily-armed gunship variant that was parking on the far-left end.
This was one of the aircraft he really wanted to see. Those sleek and refined barrels! The similar fuselage that expedited its production and maintenance! The other subtle upgrades on its form that turned it from a transport to a swift flying battleship. 'Truly the pinnacle of infantry support!'
His eyes then shot towards the sleek squadron of Auroras as they hovered into their own bays on the far-right, making the pharaohs chuckle at his gleaming excitement. They were roughly the size of the fighters he first glanced on those documentaries in the fourth war… but their speed and durability! Their abundant firepower and sheer combat finesse! If his army could have whole units of all these weapons… It was making his mouth water!
But above all, he wanted to see more of the soldiers. He'd heard it plenty from Gudao, but he wanted to see firsthand that military comradery was still alive and well. The bonds forged through war as allies was one that couldn't be matched by any other; Those who fought beside each other here in Chaldea would no doubt agree.
That's when the nearest Angel's ramp audibly unlocked and began to lower.
¨·..·¨·..·¨·..·¨(¯ˆ·.¸ IV ¸.·ˆ¯)¨·..·¨·..·¨·..·¨
"We got little welcome party! Make sure your uniform is extra sharp! We want to look good for the heroes!"
A chorus of acknowledgements echoed through the rear compartment. There were racks of weapons and stacked pallets of personal belongings, but the soldiers themselves were free of most physical burdens; A few stretches ironed out the only lingering ones. After, they began moving to the holding spaces for their rucks.
Their light-blue dress uniforms stood out amid the dimness of the aircraft's rear compartment. Many were adjusting their uniform's berets, but one was already staring towards the lowering ramp. The black-haired man had long been ready, and his nervousness mixed with his excitement. He gripped onto the lone slung strap of his ruck with one hand while the free fingers of his other twitched eagerly.
He felt a familiar presence walk up beside him, reach over, and carefully readjust one of his hard-earned medals on his chest. "Extra sharp, Skyler. You need to look proper."
"You can blame supply for never replacing that damn pin," Skyler commented back, but was met with a dry stare from his servant, who also wore their dress uniform. The unnerving eyes of the alter gazed through him, but he was more than used to it. He simply stared back until she shook her head with a tiny smirk. "I know. Excuses are unacceptable. But what about you? You ready to meet your peers?"
"I don't care and it doesn't matter. We won't work together unless it's the worst-case scenario," she replied calmly as he smoothed the crisp fold on his beret. He seemingly accepted her dismissive comment then glanced to their towering captain.
The huge Russian glanced over, cracked a giant friendly smile, and nodded. "You go first, Cloud! We're still getting squared away! See if your cousin is out there!"
"Yes, sir! Shouldn't be too hard!" he smiled back and took his first steps down the ramp… only to pause and stare at the gathered crowd of staring Chaldeans. The sheer number of servants staring at him was overwhelming, even after working with a handful at Tumangang. Their auras and presences were like an orchestra of new influential lyrics, yet he didn't falter like most would. The Vigil had their own servants with their own presences, and their airs felt natural after those years of secrecy. 'So many at once though? That's going to take getting used to…'
"Lose the stage fright. You're no coward." Trust his servant to always help him along. He glanced back, met her blank stare, chuckled to make her crack a tiny smirk, then marched down the ramp. Uncertain how to greet a mostly silent crowd of staring Chaldeans, he was about to raise his hand to break the ice until he noticed approaching figures. Ahead of the familiar Da Vinci and her little entourage, he spotted his targets.
The three uniformed masters respectfully walked up to him, though Anishka's amused smile only complimented the barely-in-check grins of Gabrielle and Gudao. Despite the moment of pause, his military bearing held strong. He walked towards them with a straight face, and felt himself challenged by his cousin and childhood best friend's growing smiles. Still he held… for at least until Gabrielle launched herself towards him to close the distance. "Sky-Sky!"
"…Seriously? Don't call me that here." he managed to groan out as Gabrielle hugged him, sending his ruck unceremoniously to the ground. Gudao was quick to come up to his giggling best friend to help the sergeant pry her off. Even so, the soldier was smiling, but didn't see the growing approval among the spectating Chaldeans. "Still as hug-happy as always, I see. And still tied to Gudao like a ship to the pier, huh?"
"Yup!" she cheered as Gudao exchanged a brotherly hug. After a few back pats, he and Gudao broke apart. "We didn't know you were Vigil!"
"Oh yea? Well we didn't know what happened to either of you in all that radio silence. We thought you two eloped and found a remote island to populate." Laughter from his comment echoed from the crowd, but he smirked lightly. "Chaldean masters though… Lord almighty. Who knew you two walking disasters would be world heroes?"
"If a lazy fool can become a master himself, I'm willing to believe anything," the Vigil alter behind him commented, and he felt his eyebrow twitch. Her light smirk practically dug into his back, but he merely sighed lightly as Gabrielle giggled. "So these are the Chaldean masters. Hm. Don't seem very impressive, but neither were you."
"Your praise never ceases to amaze me, Artesia." Upon hearing that name, the others quickly stared between the Vigil master and servant. The saber didn't even flinch at the name, but the sergeant shrugged. "She said she didn't mind what we called her, but the ol' captain wanted her to feel more human. Some classified regulation here, OPSEC headaches there… and she now goes by Artesia inside the wire."
"Guess we won't have an issue identifying the Arturias then," Gabrielle mumbled, earning the alter's curious stare. Before anything more could be voiced, Da Vinci's entourage had come up to them from another Angel. The sergeant glanced over as they approached with new company from the other transporter, which caused him to snap to attention.
"At ease. We weren't expecting a meet and greet just down the ramps," General Pritchard commented with a gentlemanly chuckle. "Vigil caught by surprise… I pray the media won't here of this."
"We can keep a secret~…" Da Vinci offered with a small giggle, to which he nodded in appreciation. The experienced officer glanced around as Vanguard platoon began unloading from their lander. To Skyler's slight amusement, they were quickly beset by a towering King of Conquerors, but the taller Sergei met him head on with equal enthusiasm. A quick glance towards the Auroras showed the ace squadron also drew the attention of several servants.
Pritchard nodded slowly with a small chuckle. "Ah… But it looks like the pilots are going to get an early introduction."
¨·..·¨·..·¨·..·¨(¯ˆ·.¸ V ¸.·ˆ¯)¨·..·¨·..·¨·..·¨
On the Port's far-right, Robots were hovering back and forth, attaching necessary wires to run maintenance checks on the Auroras. Each advanced jet was parked side by side in the slightly smaller pads. The heat still radiated off their engines as the last of the pilots in black multicam jumpsuits leapt back to the ground. The lead pilot glanced at his clipboard and let out a small sigh as the canopy of his jet slowly closed.
"Pharaoh. We've got multiple bogies on approach." The black-haired, tan-skinned man blinked towards his approaching wing mate. She only stared back calmly with blue eyes that glinted like her homeland's majestic fjords. Even in the blonde's eyes, the squadron leader could see the hints of uncertainty, which he'd never admit he also held. They knew they'd be approached sooner or later, but this soon had them on uneven ground.
"Just stay calm, Valkyrie. We're used to dealing with servants. Just be respectful and watch your pride." That went more for him than her. All of Mobius Squadron were prideful hotshots, especially him; It was a very safe assumption for any fighter-pilot. However, they knew how much flak fire they caught when trying to be that around the Vigil Saber. If some of these powerful heroes were also as disapproving… No. As much as it bit at his pride not to boast, Mobius One was not going to grate Vigilant and Chaldean relations.
That was definitely not something to be proud about. "Mobius Squadron! Form up on me after your checks are complete!"
After a minute of watching them adjust the new gathered robotic ground crew to their aircraft's specifics, he finally turned to access the approaching heroes. Their presence demanded attention, but he couldn't deny how regal and powerful they felt. Even among the mighty Vigil Servants, this aura eclipsed them. It felt as if the Egyptian sun was bearing down on him on that first day he laid eyes on his country's famous sandstone landmarks.
His blonde squadron mate had long since moved away, leaving him alone to freeze before the three servants. His eyes widened, and his steeled pride wavered like a white flag amid a storm. Terror was seeping into his heart as he stared towards the three Chaldeans, who stared back with expecting expressions. Even the small voice in his head that wanted to milk the sight of the tan desert beauty was drowned beneath a cascade of admiration and dread.
'This… This is what it's like to be before true power.' Even some of the Vigil's best, accustomed to living with servants, could still waver before new auras.
"You are Captain Fadil? Mobius One? We've been told you go by the callsign… Pharaoh." Ozymandias' voice was like thunder through his ears, even when spoken so calmly. His stare was powerful and omnipotent, and there was no doubt he stood before his country's legends. Shame was mounting among his fear for bearing that callsign before those who, without any reservation, truly defined the title in life. "Was it a name gifted to you by others, or chosen?"
"(Forgive me!)" Egyptian naturally flew from his mouth as his body was compelled to prostrate himself on the cold concrete. It felt natural… like every fiber in his being demanded he pay his respect. His mind agreed, as did his prideful soul. Normally he'd try and boast his way forward with his well-known arrogance, but there was no mistaking it: He'd be shot down for flying so close to the sun itself! "(It was a callsign given by my former commander for my attitude! I don't mean any disrespect!)"
"…Oh? Quite the respectful Egyptian. I'm liking him already," Ozymandias commented to Cleopatra and Nitocris, and the two giggled in agreement. To Ozymandias' growing amusement, the pilot didn't even raise his head at the comment, even if he definitely heard it. The rider breathed out calmly with a small smile and commanded in his native tongue, "(You may raise your head, Fadil.)"
The pilot did so, and stared as calmly as possible up at the true pharaohs. His eyes fluttered with confusion on seeing their welcoming smiles. Ozymandias only let out his booming laughter. "We will have to discuss that callsign of yours, but it can be overlooked. After far too long, Chaldea finally has an Egyptian in its halls, and we have much to ask you about the beloved sands of our home! You will be entertaining us in the days to come, so I trust you have stories worth telling?"
He finally found his voice, though his words were compelled. "…Yes, Pharoahs! I won't disappoint you!"
"A little mean to be pushing your charisma so strongly, Ozymandias," Cleopatra giggled into his head, but he merely smirked back to her.
"Yet your legendary negotiations skills were held in check. You only wished to watch this time, did you not?" Cleopatra could only giggle again in apprehended admittance. He then glanced back to the pilot and motioned for him to rise. "We have much to discuess, but first, a proper introduction… It is unquestionable, but you stand before the sun itself! The-"
"(Oh my god! Real Valkyries! REAL VALKYRIES!)" The blonde Norwegian pilot's shriek, which shattered her military bearing like paper-thin glass, stopped Ozymandias in his tracks. He stared with his companions towards some nearby generators and supply crates, where the woman had her hands over her mouth. The rider smiled towards the quartet of Chaldeans that stood before her calmly, all while she shook on unsteady legs.
Brynhildr, with hands folded before her, stood smiling before her three escorts and nodded. She returned in the pilot's native tongue, "(And it's a pleasure to meet you too, Valkyrie.)"
"(You're called it because you're a Norwegian pilot?)" a blonde escort commented. Like her two companions, her armor of glistening mithril shined like holy light with any glint. Though they had slight variation to their white capelets, stockings, and accenting black tassels, they shared a distinct look different from Brynhildr. Yet, the pink-eyed trio radiated with a heavenly warmth that basked the blonde pilot before them.
It took all her power just to nod through her enthusiasm. "(Yes. Please, I mean no dishonor, so if-)"
"(Don't worry. It's only a callsign,)" Brynhildr reassured with her small smile. "(We know who real ones are, but we'd love to get to know you more.)"
"If big-sis Bryn is fine with it, we are too!" the black-haired Valkyrie called out with a small smile.
The blonde pilot was lost in wonder, but Brynhildr was slowly losing her composure. A bit flustered already, she glanced to her three fellow Valkyries as they beamed at her. She sighed, but still smiled at their antics that have grown with time. They were rather stiff when they arrived, but no one was prepared how warmly they took to her… It was a nice warmth, though. A loving warmth like family. She glanced back across the Port at the many mingling parties, and smiled at the calming sight.
If these first introductions were any indication, integration would be smooth and promising.
¨·..·¨·..·¨·..·¨(¯ˆ·.¸ VI ¸.·ˆ¯)¨·..·¨·..·¨·..·¨
"I presume David will be showing Vanguard this room during the tour?"
"Correct~! We'll be strolling over to oversee a few entry examinations I informed you about, but there's no need to rush your inspection. We've got plenty of time, but I'm sure you'll find it even better than you requested~!"
Pritchard chuckled. "You'll have to forgive me for lacking surprise. You do have quite the offering of geniuses."
Da Vinci glanced back with a pleased smile as Lord El-Melloi II nodded lightly beside her. This new large hallway they treaded down became the least frequented on Mount Meru, where mostly new robots traversed. Unassuming in its Chaldean design, only the large blast doors at the end gave away its sole intent. The two led Pritchard's small entourage down its lengthy expanse as it sloped gently downward and away from the Port further behind.
If the Port District was separate from the rest of Chaldea, then the Munitions Bunker was a remote island from even that. It was only to be expected. The Vigil's weaponry, developed and produced by their own Edison, were far more powerful than any contemporary counterparts. Pritchard and Da Vinci had been equally adamant about Chaldea's safety when agreeing to the proposed garrison, and this hardened bunker, inspired by the ones at other Vigil installations, became the result.
It helped it was embedded into one of the smaller outcrops on Mount Meru, so it couldn't threaten the mountain itself if it collapsed.
They stopped before the giant reinforced doors, whose massive reinforced struts and rotating lock made it appear like a bank's vault. Da Vinci turned on her heel with a smile and planted her staff gently on the ground. "We've upgraded the munitions bunker to withstand three times the amount your Edison had designed. Not even a direct hit from a MIRV-equipped ICBM will compromise its integrity~! Powerful servants could, but this room will be under heavy surveillance and warded. You have nothing to fear!"
"The door alone looks impressive," Pritchard commented as he walked up and rapped his knuckles against the hardened steel. The door was so thick, it didn't even reverberate through the metal. "Did you keep the interior's dimensions?"
"Let's open her up so you can see for yourself~!" Da Vinci hummed as she walked over to the nearby console. After a bit of typing the door groaned to life. "Usually there's a retina scan and a fingerprint lock, but since it's empty, there was no current need. The overlapping detection bounded fields would have told us if someone entered anyway! You can rest assured, no Vigil munitions will ever accidentally threaten Chaldea~!"
The door slowly began sliding open, revealing the lit but empty interior within. It looked like a giant warehouse, though the reinforcing struts plastered around lightly glowing walls made it look surreal. Several hardened containers and vacant storage spaces would help with organization. There were even the few specialized cranes, automated forklifts, and hover pallets as requested.
Da Vinci turned back to look at the impressed nod of Pritchard before it filled with curious surprise. The door was still only half way open when El-Melloi's usually firm expression detonated into total incredulity. "Wha-!?"
"Oh! Hi everyone! I was just about to open the door myself but thanks for saving me the trouble!"
"Flat! What the bloody hell were you doing in here!?" El-Melloi spat with frustration.
Now it was Pritchard, his secretary, and bodyguards' turns to stare in confusion. Da Vinci slowly glanced over, and sure enough, the platinum blonde magus was standing there right on the other side of the door with a chipper smile like a sunlit beach. He looked nicely dressed in his dark-green pants, emerald sweater vest and blue collared shirt, but this was hardly a place to appear presentable… This was hardly a place he should have been at all.
"…Director? You said there were bounded fields?" Pritchard's secretary commented as she tried to clean her glasses with a cloth.
"There are! I knew you'd be busy today, and I felt like I'd be giving you a headache if I set them off sooo I made sure not to do it! It was really hard but fun!" he grinned happily as if he didn't just commit mission impossible. El-Melloi groaned as he walked away from the room's interior console to approach. As soon as he passed over the door's wide ground rails, a loud bell-like chime echoed through the area as Da Vinci's wrist-mounted intercom went off. She blinked again in disbelief as she stared at her device, then at the still-smiling flat.
Da Vinci blinked at a total loss. "Our intricate… How did you open the door and get past the bounded fields!?"
"…There's no way he's going to be able to explain how he did it. This is Flat we're talking about," El-Melloi answered, earning even more confused stares from the Vigil guests. With closed eyes and while pinching the bridge of his nose, the advising caster let out a sigh. "Alright, Flat. Let's hear it. Why did you feel the need to sneak in there?"
"Fran lost her Valentine's Day locket and was really distressed about it!" he explained animatedly with a look of genuine concern. "I'm helping Astolfo and Mordred look for it, but we couldn't find it in the usual spots! So I went ahead and expanded the search to anywher-!"
~~I'm a barbie girl, in a barbie world!~~
~~Life in Plastic, it's fantastic!~~
"Oh! Hold on! It's Astolfo!" The others could only stare incredulously as the loud ringtone echoed through the hallway.
Flat pulled out his phone, swiped quickly and placed the phone to his ear. Astolfo's voice chimed happily on the other side of the line. "Flat! I've been trying to call you! Where were you? We found it! Asterios was napping by the flowers where she usually sits and it got stuck in his hair!"
"Ohhh! Sorry, sorry! My phone didn't work where I was searching! Oh but that's great! I'm coming back now!"
With only a small wave while he talked with Astolfo, he started his jog back up the sloping hallway. El-Melloi stared incredulously while Pritchard's eyebrow remained glued skyward. Da Vinci, very flustered, had a hand against her face. Thankfully, El-Melloi was quick to explain. "My student is… an incredibly talented mage with the worst, most innocent mindset you'll ever meet. I'm not surprised he got in, but you have our assurance, not all the security measures were in place yet."
"The guard robots and authorization procedure were going to be placed after we move the ordnance inside," Da Vinci continued. "Not counting our Peacekeepers, we also have one dedicated volunteer who keeps watch over our most secure assets."
"Rest thy concerns. When thy valuables slumber within, none shall pass unallowed." Even Pritchard shivered noticeably at the disembodied voice, then flinched as a small column of blue flame heralded the arrival of Chaldea's dedicated sentinel. The cold, unyielding azure of King Hassan's fiery gaze rested calmly on the Vigil group, as if he was examining them for himself.
The secretary shivered, but to his credit, after a pause, Pritchard recomposed himself and nodded. "…We'll overlook that peculiar moment then. Trust is key in our partnership, and I understand none of you want your home placed in any sort of jeopardy... It's not like Thomas or Vlad haven't done a few curious things themselves."
"Thank you for understanding," Da Vinci smiled, absolutely relieved that the usual but random Chaldean shenanigans didn't compromise anything.
"Now, now, Da Vinci. As I said, it is the world who owes you more thanks than we can provide… especially when you're still willing to do more to increase our debt," the Vigil commander explained as he reached into his pocket. Da Vinci blinked as he fished out a portable harddrive, then offered it towards her. As she walked up to take it, he explained. "I believe you and your Edison were expecting a package?"
El-Melloi was confused, but Da Vinci's eyes filled with delight as she nodded. "Oh~! I thought it'd be sent over the secure channels!"
"Thomas is being very paranoid about using it for that purpose. Ever since our unveiling, I can't tell you how many hackers we've fended off… The Chinese and Americans are especially relentless…" Pritchard sighs. "Thank heavens for our technological edge, but nothing beats a personal delivery, no?"
"Of course~!" Da Vinci giggled as she took the harddrive and stared at it. "We'll start looking at the specs in our new R&D facility~! I hope this joint project will bear a lot of fruit, but you should see how excited Edison is about it~!"
"Oh fear not… We hear it every night on their daily calls to each other," Pritchard smiled, but his secretary groaned lightly in vexation. El-Melloi glanced at her in sympathy, but Da Vinci eyed the harddrive like it was a puzzle. She turned the silver device over one final time to stare at the little label. Besides a small sticker icon that looked an awful lot like Edison's cartoonish face, there were only three words in plain text: Project Shadow Border.
"We'll hand this off to Edison when we meet at the theater. We have an hour until then, so how about we show you the rest of the Vigil's quarters~? I promise, we made them comfy!"
¨·..·¨·..·¨·..·¨(¯ˆ·.¸ VII ¸.·ˆ¯)¨·..·¨·..·¨·..·¨
'We need to be extra respectful after giving us a five-star hotel.'
Obviously, the Barracks was no Ritz Carlton, but it wasn't a traditional barracks or dorm either. Built to the same aesthetic design as the Residential District's new rooms, the maple wood walled rooms were spacious. Their automatic doors would have been enough of a luxury, but every Vanguard member had their own room to themselves. They'd come expecting battle-buddy paired living conditions at best, but the closest they were was adjacent rooms.
Placed on a hallway adjacent to the port, Sergei was surprised he couldn't hear any of the commotion from outside. In Area 51 and other secret bases, noise was practically guaranteed. After everything he'd experienced, he wasn't too sure if he could even sleep without noise for the first time in his life. It was like a city-walker moving to the suburbs.
With his ruck still discarded beside his clean bed, he scratched his head and stared at the wall-mounted intercom, table with chairs, and storage shelves. Even the closet looked bigger than the lockers they were used to. From the wonderous chatter wafting through his open door, there was no doubt his soldiers were just as bewildered.
But the extra accommodations didn't end there. A tiny dining facility for quick food, a very spacious armory, their own personal planning area, and even an attached ready room rested nearby. Save for meals with the Chaldeans, they had everything they needed in their own district. Even so, like a small town, they were welcome to use the other facilities as they pleased with their fairly common downtime.
After a quick sound of an unlocking bolt, the door leading to his second-in-command's adjacent room opened. The Chinese officer soon stuck his head through, and they shared a silent contemplative look. The Asian man soon cracked a tiny smirk. "We can't tell the other Vigilants about this."
"We would be hated forever!" Sergei laughed back as his battle-buddy disappeared through the door again. From here on, they lived like royal soldiers.
But Sergei wouldn't let it get to their heads. Chaldea welcomed them with a warm home, and he'd be sure they followed their strict discipline and regulation. He lived and breathed military order, as did his second-in-command and their attached master. As representatives of the Vigil, they couldn't mar their name with their actions, no matter how informal Chaldea was promising to be. They had a name to uphold, especially with advising Mage's Association members already scrutinizing their every move.
Yet that was another issue he was going to be watchful over. He'd expected there would be some abrasion from the Clock Tower mages, but civility between them and the Chaldeans was paramount. Despite the risk of punishment, he was still concerned what may come to pass. Nevertheless, he knew his soldiers well. They were disciplined, and after the incident with their former leader, were tighter-knit than nearly every other unit in the Vigil.
His only real concern was whether Artesia would start trouble with other servants. 'She can be very confrontational and blunt…'
There was a knock at his door, and he turned to spy David standing respectfully. "Sergei, whenever your soldiers get settled, we can continue the tour."
"Then I'll get everyone assembled. We can continue unpacking before the ceremony!"
¨·..·¨·..·¨·..·¨(¯ˆ·.¸ VIII ¸.·ˆ¯)¨·..·¨·..·¨·..·¨
"That one too!? I'm going to find where that one lives and I'll...!"
"It started off promising too…" Kiyohime mumbled lightly as she walked down the hallway beside her best friend.
In their arms, they carried an array of personally made Halloween-themed confectionaries on shiny silver trays. The act was mirrored by several robots who were carrying more treats down the hallway to the Roman Theater. Several tables were being set up in the back for the simple introduction ceremony, which would be more of a meet and greet by the end of it. It would hopefully be relaxing and enjoyable at best, and she really needed a bit of cheering up after another disaster.
But she didn't let it drag her down. Not like the ones before. Despite her downcast tone, she smiled gratefully to her friend. "Just another asshole. He's not worth any more of my time."
Tamamo stared at her. Her ear twitched with as she smiled lightly at Kiyohime's genuine expression. "...Then you're taking our advice to heart now?"
"Because you, Gabby, the Gorgons... You're right. I was getting so caught up searching for a boyfriend it was blinding me again."
Day after day, Kiyohime's personal goal almost felt like a job. Osakabehime was right, and she was trying too hard. Gabrielle was correct, and there were just far more dishonest scumbags these days looking for easy flings. Yet most of all, Tamamo's words were absolute, and that she couldn't just give up, because she would always pine for love. But there was a right way and a wrong way to go about it, and she nearly lost sight of that basic notion taught long ago by Stheno and Euyrale.
"I made a New Year's resolution. New year, perfect me, and I almost ruined it," she sighed dejectedly, but her eyes glinted with hopeful acceptance. "I'm going to keep searching, and sure I'll get angry, but they won't get to me. I won't let them! And if I ever start spiraling down, please slap me, okay Tama?"
Tamamo's smile was a rainbow after the rain. "...I was going to see if I could ask Helena to make you a secret kitten, but I guess I could slap you too~..."
"Wait, what!? A kitten? So she's actually considering that automata pet clinic?" Kiyohime gawked in surprise, but her reaction made Tamamo giggle happily. She fell to the act too, and her heart felt warmer. Companionship was a long beheld dream, but her friendships became a wonderful close-second.
"That was the last thing anyone ever expected from her… especially her," Tamamo commented as the mirth settled. "Maybe she'll take the plunge, but she's taking her teaching job seriously as is. I don't know where she'd find the time."
"She's Madam Blavatsky, the wonder caster. If anyone could..." the berserker mused as she gazed down the hallway. As they approached, some of the Vigil soldiers strolled into view, greeted Romulus at the door, and then disappeared into the Theater. Their conversation paused as they looked forward, recognizing the many faces that were shown on the passed digital bulletin last night. "They're arriving early. Guess that's military discipline for you."
"You sure you're not fancying any of them? Not everything is love at first sight," Tamamo dared to tease lightly, but it didn't prod her wrongly. If any could get away with taking about the sensitive topic, it was her... and Osakabehime when she wasn't locked in her room. Which was almost always.
"None," she smiled back to her. While some were handsome, none of the pictures and small bios stood out in her eyes. To think she'd even grown desperate enough to use a small bulletin as a possible dating chart... Her heartache was real, even if she wasn't truly lonely. "I'm sure Medb put a check next to all of them."
"She has a never ending thirst," the caster stated. "It's disgusting... but that honesty is a bit admirable. I try not to think about what that means for her casino's design."
Kiyohime lightly cringed in agreement, then gazed forward, but her little mirth gave way. Her best friend seemed intrigued but struck by total confusion, which beckoned her to look too. Soon, she also filled with baffled curiosity when she saw two Vigil soldiers standing at the door. One young man was wearing his combat sunglasses indoors while the taller blonde woman stood beside him. Though they recognized the Afghani soldier in her hijab, the smaller short-haired brunette beside her was unrecognizable.
On his light-blue dress uniform, the Syrian flag labelled his origin… but the bulletin didn't say Vanguard had a young, tan Syrian soldier.
"Who's that…?" Tamamo pondered out loud, then watched as the young man in sunglasses turned their way, but stared longer than expected. Kiyohime stared back, as their eyes seemingly met behind his shades. It made the Afghani soldier look too, and she nodded to them gently, before placing her hand softly against his arm. She had to tap him again to get him to look around, then vaguely towards his companion. The young man paused for another moment, then hesitantly took his first steps forward while she guided him through the door and past Romulus.
Tamamo then turned to Kiyohime, who stared back at a loss. It was concerning enough for Tamamo to have military strangers mulling about, but an unmarked personnel rubbed her the wrong way. But her reservations were held at bay by the lone thought others should have noticed the unknown man too. If Da Vinci let him in, he must have had a place, like a possible last-minute addition to the platoon's assisting personnel.
Quietly, the two girls shrugged, but the curiosity over the awkward man lingered.
¨·..·¨·..·¨·..·¨(¯ˆ·.¸ IX ¸.·ˆ¯)¨·..·¨·..·¨·..·¨
The introduction was about as straightforward and rigid as anyone could have expected. Pritchard introduced himself personally on stage, followed by the chosen garrison of troops and their few accompanying assets. They went over the usual fanfare in the ending speech… expectations, hopes, and reassurances, flavored with Pritchard's habit of using famous quotes for emphasis. It barely lasted twenty minutes, and gave way to the real event: The meet and greet between the diverse platoon and the equally diverse heroes themselves.
Anything could have happened at this point, but there was one confrontation guaranteed. It lurked beneath the surface of curiosity and optimism, and formed the backbone of many uncertainties involving the Vigil's stay. Within the Roman theater, glinting of prestigious reds and golds, the air fell grossly silent among the many clustering groups. Even Da Vinci and Pritchard's eyes stared warily towards the central aisle, but did nothing to act yet.
A few, like Gilgamesh, Mephistopheles, Joan, and Dantes, stared in curiosity.
"…Don't make a scene please." Skyler's request would likely be cared for like an overdue book fee. Before him, Artesia only glanced back blankly with her cold eyes that clashed against the comforting blue of her Vigil uniform. She huffed lightly, then turned forward to face the approaching group.
Stopping to form a small wall, the Camelot knights stood glinting in their well-shined armor, yet their expressions were conflicted. They stared toward the alter, who took a few steps towards them and eyed them curiously. The sweep of her gaze was almost dismissive and calculating, yet remained blank to most. They didn't flinch under her observation, nor yield their unarmed guard. She huffed, "…Confronting a threat to your king, are you? How very like my knights."
"We're only gauging your intentions. That you do not wish to cause trouble. We wish no more than has already happened in the past," Bedivere answered for them. "You did help Sir Tristan that day, but your intentions towards our Chaldean King remain unknown."
"Are our organizations not allies?" Though an innocent question, her scoffed delivery ruined its gentle impact. Her eyes narrowed lightly with incredulity, and her palpable aura remained stiff. "If you need an answer, I don't like the idea of being anywhere near that other me. She can do as she pleases, as can you. You're no longer my knights, and I care little for your current king. Let her believe what she wishes, so long as she stays out of my way."
They didn't like that answer. If anything, it made Gawain and Lancelot glance to each other in uncertainty. Mashu shifted uncomfortably in her battle armor, while Fou stared intensely atop her shoulder. Merlin and Arthur stood off to the side, observing curiously with a rare serious expression; She took curious note of the unknown knight, but cared little in the end. Tristan breathed out slowly, "…How sad to hear those harsh words."
"I knew it. I don't like this father." Mordred voiced as Gawain stepped aside. She stepped forward to unveil herself, but met the harsh gaze of the alter better than anyone expected; This is the first time she'd seen this abrasive saber, but hardly the first for a harsh disposition. Still, within, she secretly shook under the gaze, and would have likely burst out with harsh words to veil her feelings if she wasn't finally acknowledged by her real one. "It's annoying. It sounds like you've thrown everything away that made you perfect."
Artesia scoffed. "I was far from perfect, you worthless brat. I was a poor leader. The fall of my kingdom proved it, and I'm sure my Chaldean self would take offense to that."
Skyler coughed, but the alter merely glared at him for his social cue. He just rolled his eyes and sighed.
"You're not wrong. Our rule had its flaws." The statement surprised the alter, just as Gawain and Lancelot finally allowed the Chaldean counterpart to step forward. Jeanne and Emiya still stood further behind, but watched carefully as the alter gazed towards her. Arturia met it perfectly. "I understand that now. Miscommunication was a terrible enemy… If only we were more honest and human, mayhaps it would have ended differently… but it was already decided. I can't change the past, but I've learned those lessons for the future."
Her words were adamant, but clearly not what the alter was expecting. Her narrowed eyes remained planted on the taller armored king, and Arturia returned the calm yet unmovable gaze. Even so, she actually dared to hold out her hand. "Chaldea is not a battlefield, and you are not our enemy. Even if you wish to have nothing to do with me, I pray we may at least keep things civil. Can we agree to at least that, Artesia?"
The alter only stared at the hand, then back at the taller king. The gaze and silence were uncomfortable, and many spectators were starting to grow concerned… Until the alter finally opened up her mouth and snapped her eyes to Merlin. "…You damn wizard. Is this another one of your ludicrous illusions?"
"Huh!?" Merlin's expression fell flabbergasted at the accusation, but the alter didn't wait for an answer. She took a few steps forward towards Arturia, placing her knights on guard until she stared directly at the taller saber's chest. Arturia blinked in confusion, then her eyes flew wide as the alter nonchalantly reached over and rapped her knuckles on the chest plate.
"This is clearly sorcery! Why am I so tall? Is anything hiding behind this chestplate? What kind of fool are you taking me for to deceive me in such a vile manner?"
"It's real! She's you but older, wiser, and more emotional!" Merlin spat out in disbelief, but the alter only continued to stare in confusion.
"I thought something looked off on stage…" she grumbled and shook her head. "Preposterous… How was I supposed to hide my identity looking like this…?"
"I'm so sorry…" Skyler groaned into his hand, but it made Gabrielle and Gudao chuckle and pat his back. Anishka even cracked a giggle, and the air lightened with some mirth from various other spectators.
Pritchard let out a small breath of relief on stage as Da Vinci patted his shoulder. "It's alright, Pritchard~! You can rest easy for dinner!"
"And sleep soundly on that flight back afterward..." he agreed quietly as David chuckled nearby.
With every passing moment, as Arturia and her counterpart fell into a light squabble on form and function, the concern over a potentially violence dissipated.
¨·..·¨·..·¨·..·¨(¯ˆ·.¸ X ¸.·ˆ¯)¨·..·¨·..·¨·..·¨
"That could have gone far worse…" an Italian soldier sighed to her battle-buddy. Beside her, Bazett cracked a tiny smile and nodded in agreement. They stood off to the side, left alone while others conversed in bigger groups. In truth, it was at Bazett's request to remain separate, if only so she could observe in comfortable silence; She was glad her battle-buddy had always been respectful of her solitary disposition. It made being part of the Vigil… surprisingly comfortable.
Yet, they weren't destined to be left alone, not that she wasn't intrigued by the current company. Once more, she turned back to Touko, who lounged calmly in a seat with one leg crossed over the other. It was a privilege to meet the powerful magus, but felt surreal among so many powerful heroes. She appeared relaxed in her black formal pants and red collared shirt as she adjusted her glasses.
Bazett renewed their conversation before she could. "Then you took one of the last adviser positions for the Mage's Association."
"One of them. No doubt the other will be bought, haggled, or blackmailed… It's a mess over there," Touko smirked lightly, and her fingers clearly itched for a cigarette she couldn't have. "Made claiming the slot easy. At least now they can't just drop another sealing designation on my head."
"They'd have to go through Chaldea… Strategic," Bazett nodded calmly. She hadn't been privy to what the Clock Tower has been up to recently, but even she knew how much turmoil they were in after that attack. Who knew what new groups would take up power in the opened gap, if they managed to even challenge some of the weakened noble families. That organization was always an anxiety-inducing mess; She would know, and did her best not to cross any lines.
"And how's the Vigil treating you? I heard combat mages are like upper class."
"Definitely not wrong, ma'am," her battle-buddy answered for her with a smile. "They're valuable comrades we can't afford to lose. Unparalleled force multipliers."
"Yes. They treat me very well," she agreed with a small smile. All those years of fighting alongside the Mage's Association, then the Vigil, was like night and day for her. Under the mages, she just felt like another tossable piece in the political chess game, but certainly not an unrewarded pawn. Maybe a knight at best. The Vigil, on the other hand, made her feel like the best… like she belonged: The comradery and loyalty were unquestionable. She actually felt she wouldn't get double-crossed just for doing what she was told.
"Look at that! A little smile and everything!" The unknown voice placed her on instinctive guard, but Touko merely glanced over as the two servants made their way over. Bazett eyed the tattooed man cautiously, but felt her eyes linger on the blue-haired lancer beside him. Though battle-clad like everyone else, Bazett felt a bit more apprehensive about the grinning man as he approached. Would heroic spirits be trying to hit on her too?
She'd come steeled to bat away advances, as did her loyal and protective battle-buddy. The partners stood a bit straighter and met their advance calmly, yet firmly. It made Angra and Cu stare at each other briefly, then back to them. The avenger chuckled. "Dang. Insync and everything. That's hot stuff."
"Hey now, don't mind him. We weren't coming to hit on you, though there's nothing quite like capable fighting women," Cu assuaged with a confident smile. To Bazett's irking, she couldn't help but feel his words were more influential; Servants and their auras would be a problem here. Yet, something felt strange about this meeting, especially as she glanced a few other servants in the distance staring curiously their way.
"We're just here to introduce ourselves to your friend!" Angra agreed and motioned towards Bazett. "We heard she's very interested too!"
Bazett blinked as her Italian partner turned to her for an answer. She stared back calmly, but nothing needed to be said as the rare spark of optimistic hope flared in her magenta eyes. There was one hero she'd been openly eager to possibly meet, but they never were told who was in Chaldea for security purposes. Now, her heart finally beat with growing anticipation, even as she remained stoic and disciplined.
Yet, as she turned back to the handsome blue lancer, she saw him smirking his way lightly and staring just slightly past her… No. Not past. He was staring at her earrings. The sole allowance where she was allowed to break formal dress code since these relics meant the world to her. Her mind scrambled as possibilities in the fleeting but eternal moment as her magenta stared into confident scarlet, only for him to break it.
With a quick shimmer, his matching silver earrings appeared to complete his battle attire; What was missing had been remedied. Touko watched with amusement as her mouth slowly fell open at instant recognition, and she subconsciously reached up with one hand to touch a sacred relic on her own person. With the wall broken, Cu grinned dashingly towards the now vulnerable magus, who stood in shock beside a wonder-struck Italian battle-buddy.
"It's my pleasure to meet you, Bazett. You can call me Setanta if you wish, or the name you know me as. Your choice."
"Cu Chulainn…" she breathed out in wonder, and Angra chuckled beside him. She took a moment to eye him, and he gladly let her. Her disbelief swelled, but so did her hidden, growing enthusiasm. "…It's really you… This isn't some joke?"
"Nah, Chaldeans joke differently. You'll have to keep a watch out for me, Nobu, Merly… Ah forget it. But hey, let's get a party going!" Her Italian friend felt far more relaxed, at least until Angra waved over to the distant Celts who were watching. "Mission accomplished! Titanic hit the iceberg!"
Even as they cheered, Bazett stared at Cu as he uncrossed his arms and motioned to the theater seating they clustered around. "You ladies mind if we have a seat? Angra and I wanted to meet Bazett for a while now, but we won't exclude anyone. I'm sure we'll have a lot to talk about!"
Angra chuckled, but Bazett and her battle-buddy shared a quick glance. Agreement was not far behind.
¨·..·¨·..·¨·..·¨(¯ˆ·.¸ XI¸.·ˆ¯)¨·..·¨·..·¨·..·¨
Quietly, Kairi's eyes, free from his protective shades, swept across the theater again. Their second-in-command was enthralled in a conversation with Li and Jing Ke. Sergei was surrounded by a bunch of servants likely wondering how the Russian got so big and tall; The smiling officer was just shy of Heracles beside him. Even Bazett had just been approached by a few servants, so it was safe to say the entire platoon was 'apprehended.'
This included himself and his own battle-buddy. He tossed a quick glance to the German grenadier, who was still excitedly talking to Siegfried, Chiron, and Achilles. On the other hand, some of his own companions had briefly shifted attention among themselves. Astolfo was showing Frankenstein something on his smart phone, but the necromancer tuned it out for his usual instinctive but subtle glances around the filled theater, ever wary for anything to go wrong.
After so many years working dangerous jobs, it was only the habit for Kairi, safe environment or not.
Astolfo giggled, earning his attention. "Sorry! Mordred's taking longer than I thought she would! She loses track of time like that."
"And you don't?" Frankenstein poked, earning a quick pout from the rider. The berserker only shook her head and sighed with a tiny smile.
With arms still folded over his dress uniform, Kairi shrugged lightly. "I was hoping to start setting up my workshop, but it's fine. I'll just do it after dinner."
"Your schedules are that tight?" the Vigil magus turned to his last two quiet companions. Anton was cleaning his glasses, but it was Jekyll who raised the question. Without a pause, Kairi shook his head towards the scholarly servant and offered a tiny chuckle.
"We're usually on standby, but I'd like to get settled before any emergency operation rears its head."
"Are they common? These special operations missions?" Anton asked, and earned a quiet glance from the magus. It made the supervisor flinch, but Kairi cracked an eyebrow. Being around soldiers all the time who didn't even bat an eyelash at his usual deathly stench sometimes made him forget people still recoiled at his presence. Even in his sharp Vigil uniform, some flinched, and it never ceased to baffle him in his aging days. "S-Sorry…! I'm not very knowledgeable on military terminology and phrases."
"We're not special forces, if that's what you're asking," Kairi chuckled to ease the poor guy's nerves; He seemed easier to spook than most. "Those units are always seeing action. Vanguard is more like the Vigil's last resort. If there's something magecraft related that needs to be resolved quickly, they send one of the three platoons."
"…But you have four servants…" Jekyll pondered with a thumb to his lips, then slowly nodded. "Then your caster doesn't leave the base at all."
Kairi nodded. "Sentinel are Pritchard's bodyguards. They don't leave the main base unless it's for an evacuation… Not like caster would leave his beloved factory without a fight."
"Sounds like Edison alright," Jekyll smiled, then glanced over at the sound of clanking armor. Kairi stared too and spotted Mordred jogging over with a brighter smile replacing her former disapproval. It was certainly brighter than what he'd imagined being around their saber for so long, let alone witnessing the knights' cautious guard only moments before. More surprise poured in like rain as her armor flickered, then dematerialized to unveil her rather revealing red undergarments.
Yet, his focus remained on shining green eyes that remained locked on him as the grinning servant bounced eagerly before him. "It's you! It's really you!"
"Sheesh, Momo. Took you long enough," Astolfo commented, earning the rider a swift and fearsome glare that almost made the necromancer flinch. The rider only giggled. "I felt bad making him wait here."
"I'm going to kill you one of these days…" she promised, and the rider only stuck his tongue out happily while Frankenstein sighed beside him. Like lightning, her gaze whipped back to Kairi, and unnervingly switched back to an excited stare. The mood swing was crazy. "We get to meet again! But you're older now! I thought you would've had more gray hairs but… you mages are so strange!"
Kairi, at a total loss of words and comprehension, could only stare at Mordred like she sprouted forty heads. Jekyll chuckled and clarified, "My mistake… We should have informed you of the circumstances before Mordred came. Now, how best to put it… Ah. Yes. You're aware of how the Second Magician's magic works, correct?"
"…Something to do with parallel dimensions," Kairi answered. Though he wasn't keen on the Wizard Marshall's capabilities, he knew a fair amount of what it supposedly let him do; He always did wonder if some of it was just rumors and hearsay. However, newly raised, it got his battle-sharpened mind working at its decisive speed that saw him through the worst of encounters. He stared hard. "Are you inferring I've met the Knight of Treachery in some other world?"
"More than that! You were my master in a Holy Grail War!" she praised excitedly, and those words nearly caved his knees in from behind. Like his neck was rusted tight, he slowly turned to the saber with unfathomable disbelief. Even his German battle-buddy had been snatched from his conversation to stare in confusion. "We got along really well and fought together until the very end!"
"…It was a good end I hope." He couldn't think of what else to ask as his mind screamed for a better explanation, or the start of one. Unfortunately, when he saw her expression fill with some ashamed disappointment, he safely surmised that… 'other life' hadn't been the greatest… or had it? He hadn't given the whole parallel dimension thing thorough thought until now, and it certainly laying the foundations for a headache.
Despite that, his curiosity was winning out. "…I see. Guess I'll consider myself lucky I don't have too many complaints in this one."
"You don't? That's great!" Mordred's enthusiasm was remarkable, and if what she said was right, they got along well in that war. This was going to take a lot of careful explanation and understanding, but his curiosity wanted to know. He even pondered if that meant he could be a master this time too… though seeing what Skyler had to deal with for years, he'd rather not. All that 'power' came with quite the hassle, and he was only really interested in his unreachable wish.
"This is going to take a lot of getting used to, but I would like to hear about this war. Any other servants here take part?"
As he glanced around, the number of smiling stares dumbfounded him. Looks like he was about to have a longer talk than he thought before dinner.
¨·..·¨·..·¨·..·¨(¯ˆ·.¸ XII ¸.·ˆ¯)¨·..·¨·..·¨·..·¨
For the most part, the Port District housed all of the Vigil's necessities to ensure they wouldn't possibly get in Chaldea's way. This included the very small dining facility that even the former cafeteria would put to shame; It was more about effective function than form. It meant Vanguard was practically segregating itself out of respect and necessity, but meals were another story.
Day to day, they would at least join the Chaldeans for actual food.
…Yet, as Skyler glanced around the luxurious Salon de Marie's dining area, he had to wonder if that was a good thing. "And I thought the theater was too royal for us."
"Your words flatter us, but this evening's dinner is more elaborate to celebrate your arrival. Rome welcomes you as its guests for the evening. Please sit."
Her master looked to her, but the alter merely took one of the large table's many seats. Her gaze remained disinterested, and she hid her disappointment within. All this luxury meant the food was going to be the same, which meant she wasn't going to eat it. She'd suppress her grumblings, but not her firm gaze.
Artesia scrutinized the now toga-wearing servant, who took a seat at the table across from her. His red and black eyes had unnerved the Italian soldier until he'd spoken so eloquently with a small smile; Bazett sat at a table nearby with the already rowdy Celts. Skyler sat down next to his servant, just as a small parade of other servants began to fill the space.
"Ah, another fine night with our Roman allies!" Ozymandias declared as a laughing Cleopatra and Caesar sat down next to each other. His signature laugh practically grated on her nerves like a steel beam dragged against a gravel road. "Rejoice, Vigilants! Your first night is spent among the best company Chaldea has to offer! You bask within the grace of the sun! Fadil! Have a seat! Come, come! Don't keep your Pharaohs waiting!"
Though the Egyptians remained battle-clad, it became more apparent to the Vigil saber the Romans desired nothing more than to wear their prestigious togas. Her suspicion was proved further as Romulus sat down beside Caligula in his more elaborate one. He stretched his arms out over the table and nodded to Skyler and the Italian woman, then her. "Roma is pleased you've agreed to join us, dear modern Romans and Camelot Royalty! Roma hopes dinner will be most enjoyable!"
"…Oh. Wow, this is already much but I won't say no." Skyler noted as he stared at a robot pouring him a glass of red wine. "What's on the surprise menu? Italian cuisine?"
"Dear Leandre, honored chef of Rome, has catered our personal supper to sate our appetites as we indulge in newfound company," Caesar began as he poured a bottle of white wine for his fiancé. "The finest of garlic bread… exquisite panzanella refined for royalty... offerings of ossobuco and pastas… And only the finest of gelatos to end the night!"
"We are unaware what the militaries of this era are served, but from tonight onward, you shall taste the best the world can offer!" Caligula declared, making Skyler double take at the flare-eyed but audibly lucid berserker.
"…We're going to die." Skyler's flat comment made the alter snicker lightly as the sizzling garlic bread baskets, wrapped in bundles like sleeping babes, were placed on the table; She definitely took no interest. Romulus and Caligula laughed as her master and the Italian woman beside him shared a look of horror. They then turned towards her, as she allowed her smirk to sneak out at his hopeful words. "…Have mercy tomorrow? It's suppose to be a relaxed day remember?"
"Preparation is the key to success. Harsh training is mandatory to burn away food not abstained and ensure the standard is exceeded," she declared firmly as she stared remorselessly to the two Vanguard members. "…I'm going to love seeing the pain on your faces at PT tomorrow."
"You're a fucking demon and I'm still going to shamelessly enjoy this food." The present Romans laughed.
Skyler's outright declaration against her threatened promise only made Artesia chuckle with satisfaction. If she appreciated her master for anything, it was the fact he never backed down to a challenge or adversity. He could be far less lazy and aloof during his off times, but… that was a hopeless battle, even for her. They really were the most curious pair of master and servant. "Then don't be surprised if it ends up in the snow, fool. We haven't had mountain training in months."
"If what ends up in the snow?" Before the saber could turn to look, the owner of the voice quickly pulled out a chair and sat at the table beside her. As Altera took her seat at her other side, the alter stared towards the toga-wearing Nero. Her eyes glinted with pride and curiosity as she scrutinized the Vigil servant beside her. At the same time, the alter was trying to figure out which Roman Emperor was apparently a-
"Umu… How interesting. Seeing an evil King of Knights in such bright attire. I don't find those pastels very fitting for an alter, but you're still somehow beautiful," the Roman blonde commented as she daintily gestured a hand to her chest. "We apologize for being tardy, but Altera and I were helping Tamamo with a small crisis. But without further wait, Alter of Arturia, you are graced to sit beside I, Empress Nero Claudius Caesar Augustus Germanicus!"
"…The tyrant Nero," Artesia mumbled quietly, though her gaze remained unchanged. Nero's prideful poise was equally unshakable as they stared at each other. History had spun plenty of dark tales about this emperor, yet for all the atrocities, her presence was regal, haughty, and charismatic… but not twisted like hers. It made her curious, far more so than her counterpart did. 'Hmm. Another tyrant like me. So there are many interesting servants here.'
"I prefer Empress," she countered easily as a robot hovered over to pour her a unique red wine. "While I could go on about my needs, what of you, King Altria?"
That quickly made her blink and narrow her eyes. "Altria?"
"An Alter of Arturia, are you not, Altria?" Nero emphasized but then quietly backtracked when the gaze didn't lessen. Caligula seemed to lean in curiously to listen. "A passing thought I heard from another servant I wished to try before you introduced yourself as Artesia. It flows off the tongue, but not eloquently like Artesia. But have you never gone by Arturia?"
"Our old captain believed calling her Saber all the time was dehumanizing, but we had to keep her true name secret. Artesia was a fair compromise." Nero, Caligula, and the alter glanced over to her master, who then quickly dipped his head in apology. "Excuse my eavesdropping, but I thought we were all having more personal introductions."
"An Italian should no better than to interrupt their leaders, but I shall overlook it," Nero hummed with a small smile. Skyler chuckled. "Though you've piqued my interest… What happened to your original leader?"
Before any more curiosities could be aired, Ozymandias stood with his glass of wine held high. "Now that we are all present, a toast! Let this evening be graced with fine food and finer company!"
Moments later, the others at the table were standing to clink their glasses. The Vigil saber reluctantly stood too to join them; Corrupted or not, she was still a proud king. Other tables soon followed their lead with their own toasts. As she sat down and took another sip of the wine, she acknowledged, though much too refined for her new cravings, the wine was a reasonable appeasement. It'd make learning about this strange tyrant empress beside her smoother, and let her ignore the frustrations over the disgustingly refined food.
Still, Artesia couldn't shake the feeling someone, all afternoon and evening, was continually glancing to her, and it wasn't one of her fellow legends.
¨·..·¨·..·¨·..·¨(¯ˆ·.¸ XIII ¸.·ˆ¯)¨·..·¨·..·¨·..·¨
"Naomi, slow down!" As if she could. Medea knew just like Boudica and Vlad. It was very early in the morning, so she needed her coffee. Every now and then, she could be in such a great mood she could get away without a coffee before lunch, but that was a rarity. An absolute rarity.
She needed her daily strong coffee like an overseas flight needed a working latrine. "We've got a lot to do! I woke up late and I can't waste more of our time and I need my coffee!"
Medea suppressed her laugh as she floated swiftly to catch up with her half-running, half-walking best friend. Her cerulean off-shoulder long dress fluttered below her as she caught up to the supervisor just as they passed through the resort doors. Club Cove was mostly empty, which served as a great accelerator pad for Naomi's amusing speed run. Barely a moment later, they were in the morning resort's summer air.
The seagulls were already cawing as the amber rays of the sun stretched across the sky. They quickly passed King Hassan who was standing watch over Yedda, wrapped in a blue blanket, as she happily fed seeds to a pair of hyacinth macaws. The gentle tropical music playing over the speakers relaxed the mind and muscles as it wafted around the outdoor cafeteria. It mingled with the nearby relaxed conversation of morning joggers, the musical trio, and more who were usually up this early. The Vigil had only arrived yesterday, yet everything still seemed ordinary. 'So far so good.'
Yet, none of that mattered to her dear friend, who bolted courteously past most in search of her sacred nectar.
After tossing a final glance to the Valkyries talking at a distant table, Medea floated to a halt at a far end of the bar. On this side, the former cafeteria's coffee dispensers had found a new home to deliver their delicious goods. The ones dispensed in the rooms apparently didn't compare. Medea didn't know by experiences: She just went off what Naomi ranted about.
"It's not like it's going anywhere. Everyone knows your routine," Medea offered with a giggle as Naomi reached out with one hand. Instantly, the pot of coffee she eyed, which was always specially-brewed for her, gently lifted off its place and sailed towards her hand. It slowed down smoothly so she could take it, then the floating cup she beckoned to her with her free hand. Medea watched calmly, yet cautiously, as the supervisor poured herself the drink without touching either objects.
It had been a curious development, but that whole terrible ordeal had actually come with a surprising gift. Naomi's latent telekinetic potential had fully awakened, and she was capable of far more than she was previously. The thought of her overloading her capabilities again made the caster overwhelmed with paranoia, so she'd been adamant about lessons and keeping watch over her. Thankfully, Naomi only seemed interested in using it for mundane tasks.
"Hot damn. Wish coffee just flew to me like that." Medea and Naomi, surprised, turned to look at Skyler. The caster had paid him no attention since he sat at a nearby table with four cups of coffee and a carved jack-o-lantern; He only stared distantly to the sea. Now that he spoke, she finally eyed his fitness clothing, which was a UN marked light-blue shorts and a black T-shirt damp with sweat. There was a bright yellow reflective belt stretched across his torso like a sash that helped tease the muscular body that remained mostly concealed underneath.
Naomi blinked, but Skyler turned his attention to the glass pot. "Umm… Ma'am? Your coffee might…"
"Oh!" Naomi turned back in time to stop her telekinetic pour. A millisecond later, and the overfilled cup would have finally spilled over. Carefully, she sent the pot back to its holder further away, and simultaneously raised the cup carefully to her lips. She took a quick sip, squinted at the heat, then let out a quick sigh of relief. "…Thank you. I almost started my day wrong."
"Can't stand the sight of spilled coffee? Makes two of us," Skyler commented as he quickly chugged his third cup. She nodded to him, and he caught it in his peripheral. Naomi then took more quick sips of her own coffee eagerly, all while Medea's eyes ping-ponged between the two coffeeholics.
With another satisfied sip, Medea saw the lingering lethargy in her eyes sweep away. The supervisor breathed in relief, then glanced again towards the lone Vigil sergeant. He stared at his cup like he was contemplating more after the fourth, but decided to chug the glass of water on his table instead. After a few more moments of staring, and another sip of her fuel, Naomi moved to raise the question fluttering through Medea's mind. "Excuse me, um... Mister Albanese was it?"
"Skyler is fine too," he smiled to them. "Whatever you like better, Miss…?"
"…Naomi." Usually the supervisor introduced herself formally. That caught Medea's attention, but she didn't voice her curiosity. She only glanced between them. "Can I ask you something?"
He made a tiny, playful grimace. "Ah geeeez… a morning quiz? Didn't study, but maybe I can still pass?"
"A comedian, huh…?" Naomi smiled at his antic. "Where's the rest of your unit? Don't you train together?"
"Getting changed, which I should have done too before I got this joe," he noted as he tapped a finger against his cup, then jabbed his thumb towards the growing breakfast selection. "But Artesia didn't want to wait to see what food you've got for breakfast… and I'm sure you know our battle-buddy rule."
Medea glanced over, and sure enough, she spotted the servant she missed in their hasty approach. Wearing a ponytail and her own matching PT clothes, Artesia occasionally eyed the growing selection of food. She didn't even make any passing glances to the fruits, but kept her attention locked onto the eggs atop the outdoor oven. Beside her, much to the caster's intrigue, was Joan, who stood a bit tense and apprehensive in her black sweater and matching hot pants.
Though the avenger stared with noticeable disgust at the eggs, Artesia seemed unmoved as the robot continued to cook. Two of its eyes were eyeing the Vigil alter strangely while the third watched the exceptionally greasy looking abomination of eggs. It sizzled, popped, and steamed while glinting like an unrecognizable mound of yellow paste. Bits of burnt bacon sprinkled it too… or at least Medea assumed it was bacon when the robot sprinkled more uncooked bits on top.
'Her appetite isn't exactly cute either…' Medea mourned as she stared at the servant. "I've never seen eggs cooked so terribly."
"Grease is like water for her." Skyler chuckled with a small grimace, earning Naomi and Medea's stare. "She loves the quick and easy food. McDonalds. Wendys. White Castle. We never understood where it all disappears to, but she sure loves her garbage. Even downs the worst MREs we have to offer like it's water."
The alter glared over to him, clearly having heard since he spoke it rather loudly. He only waved it off. "The truth hurts!"
"Shut up, asshole. You're just frustrated I can stomach it without needing to burn it off," she glared lightly back.
"…You just talk to your master like that?" Joan voiced with narrowed eyes. When the other alter's gaze snapped back to her, Joan noticeably flinched, making Medea raise an eyebrow. Artesia only huffed with a dismissive little smile befitting a noble tyrant, then gazed back towards her master. Joan fumed at her silently, but didn't walk away.
After a small pause, Artesia chuckled when Skyler merely shrugged. In a blink, she was ignoring Joan to stare at her cooking eggs, and he picked at his drying shirt. When Naomi sipped on her coffee, their eyes met again, and he gestured to the table. "Well I don't think we'd make for great company, but you're welcome to take a seat if you wish to chat more. Though I warn you, I don't quite smell like sunshine and daisies."
Medea wasn't too keen on the idea, mainly because of the alter; Not to mention her instinctive initial distrust of dashing warrior men. They were also time crunched since Naomi woke up late for the first time in… honestly, probably the first time since she's known her. That didn't stop the mage tailor from placing a finger to her lips as she telekinetically poured herself two cups for the road.
After a glance to Medea in silent debate, the caster quietly signaled her intent with her eyes: Her choice. If she was actually considering it, she wasn't about to leave her alone with the Vigil master. Medea might not like it at first, but she's grown accustomed, or neutral, to stranger things in Chaldea. Naomi smiled lightly as her work ethic proved immovable. "…We've got a lot to do today, and I woke up late… but maybe some other time?"
He raised his nearly empty glass of water and nodded with a small smile. "More than welcome. We're always the first to the chow line, and I'll make sure not to show up looking like a soggy sack of wheat again."
With a small smile as her two fresh cups of coffee hovered beside her, Naomi nodded. "Another time then. Have a nice morning, Skyler."
"You too, Naomi and… uh… Ah geeez, I'm such a gentleman, huh?" he smiled apologetically towards the caster and scratched his head. "Your name was…?"
"Medea," she answered calmly. The caster then blinked when it failed to register in his eyes. "Medea, Princess of Colchis?"
"…I don't know squat of history before the eighteenth century," he cringed lightly with apology. "Sorry, I should really fix a bit of that while I'm here..."
"Hm. It's fine." More than fine actually. She'd take an apologetic greeting than a judgmental first impression any day; Those became worse now that she had a handful of close friends. With a tiny smile, and the tiniest slither of optimism in her usually jaded beliefs, she waved goodbye to him too. A moment later they were off and slithering past the growing number of patrons as they headed towards the Stitch Witches storefront.
As they passed by two newly arrived soldiers, now wearing their fatigues, Naomi smiled back at Medea. "He seemed nice."
"I'll reserve my judgement for later," Medea replied, and earned a tiny roll of the eyes from her dear friend. "Let me be me."
"I know, I know… But he's Gudao's cousin. He couldn't have fallen too far from the family tree, right?"
Though she wondered if he did due to the nature of his summoned servant, she'd still withhold her reservations and compliments alike. Naomi's point did blend with the forming opinion though. Many of the concerns look like they would lift, but there was still a lot of time for real opinions to form. At the very least, the Vigil were very keen on making a very good impression to everyone save for the few confrontation Mage's Association members.
'Maybe they're right. These modern soldiers are on good behavior so far...'
¨·..·¨·..·¨·..·¨(¯ˆ·.¸ XIV ¸.·ˆ¯)¨·..·¨·..·¨·..·¨
The noonday sun smiled upon the resort. On the nearby boardwalk railing, an orange bill picked up one of the last seeds with precision. It flicked it into the air so the toco toucan could swallow the delicious treat. Quietly, it eyed the generous patron, then turned its attention to the final scattered gifts. It ruffled its feathers lightly as a cool breeze swept by; As far as the automata was concerned, it was just typical another day.
The same was the case for its patron. Sitting on the nearby bench in a pure white kimono and emerald sash, Kiyohime shut her phone off with a small smile. She glanced to the colorful bird, which helped brighten her smile a bit more as it tilted its head happily to her. The children flying new kites further down the beach helped too. As did a surfing Mordred's distant yelling as she was outshined, yet again, by a laughing Medusa.
Even with her constant pining for love, she was honestly happy, all things considered. Lots of helpful friends. A device that let her look at some many cute videos. A planned trip to Japan with Tamamo and Osakabehime; Blackbeard was coming too, but as long as he didn't try anything, she wouldn't roast him.
Despite how poorly searching for a suitor was going, it was the only glaring offense in her Chaldean life.
She happily glanced around at the usual Sunday commotion after a happily squeaking Gugalanna skipped by. Other resort-goers were strolling about on the boardwalk, but it was the newcomers that stood out. Dressed in their fatigues, the unarmed soldiers she could see were exploring on their free day. She'd heard many spent part of it in Memorial Hall paying tribute to before the monuments and cenotaphs. There was no surprise to find them enjoying the resort though.
Her eyes landed on an approaching pair of Vigil soldiers touring the sights. The men's eyes landed on her, and she hardened herself. The quiet voice in her heart wondered maybe, but the rest was cautioned by Stheno and Euryale's advising. Even without Tamamo's warning, she knew soldiers could be very forward, to say the least. Objectifying wasn't far from unusual either.
So she steeled herself as they approach, but didn't slow down as they passed. One of them, a Filipino, only nodded with a calm smile as his Japanese counterpart followed suit. The accent of his homeland was surprisingly thin, but present. "Afternoon, ma'am. Lovely day in paradise."
"Always is," she greeted back with a calm smile, but to her relief and curiosity, they only gave another content nod and kept walking.
"Who knew we'd be saying that in Antarctica," the Filipino soldier chuckled, and his battle-buddy nodded in agreement. They didn't even give her a second peep, which made her further relieved, and even a touch disappointed. They weren't interested, nor were most of Vanguard for that matter. Only Medb drew direct attention from them, but it was hard not to with such open advances. Maybe it was just the first days of stability, but it was becoming very obvious already.
Except for Artesia, Vanguard was respectful to the servants, and perhaps border-lined on honored admiration.
"COMING THROUGH!" "MAKE A HOLE!"
On the other hand, Chaldea was still Chaldea, as they were coming to learn. She blinked as the two soldiers looked for the voice, then quickly dove to the side as two more soldiers bolted past with fear in their eyes. The nearby strolling groups only stared as Spartacus, in a yellow banana hammock of all things, ran after them. "Oppressors! Taking my picture without permission is oppressing my rights!"
"We didn't take a picture! We were just pointing! We're sorry!" They bolted onto the beach as their physical training kicked into high gear. They sprinted across the sand towards Tropicana forest, all while a now battle-clad Boudica was chasing after Spartacus in an attempt to stop him. As they passed, a few of the distant children, giggling and laughing at the sight, started yelling about follow the leader and began to chase after the redhead rider. Soon a train was forming behind Boudica while Janna was desperately trying to coral the few kites without tangling them.
"It's still too easy to trick him!" Mephistopheles' laughing voice, joined by Angra and Nobu's own, echoed somewhere behind her. The soldiers still stared in disbelief, but a giggling Kiyohime barely gave it a second glance as she turned on her phone to thumb through a few messages. This was just the norm in Chaldea. It was only a matter of time before they got the real introduction to complete their welcome.
Moments later, after another cute video of baby animals, she glanced around the boardwalk again, then noticed the young Vigil man with sunglasses glancing around. The Afghani woman said something to him while holding his arm gently, then disappeared into the nearby cabana bathrooms with her Finnish battle-buddy. He stood there quietly, glancing around, before his eyes finally stared towards her. Once again, she gazed back curiously, as neither moved.
He was awfully stiff standing there, just like on stage. And still, those sunglasses never came off, did they? As he continued to stare, her own little theory, after quietly observing him from time to time, finally forged her curiosity into fuel. She stood up calmly and gracefully, then began her stroll over to the strange Syrian.
Her approach was elegant and refined after lessons from Stheno and Euryale. She moved like a gentle creek beneath falling sakura leaves, even gaining some attention from others around her. Yet he only stared unmoving as she waltzed. His gaze only shifted when the two panicked soldiers bolted past again.
She observed briefly, noticing the escapade had grown a bit more, but kept most of her attention on the lone soldier as the train passed by. They were all blurs, but after Boudica, came a train of swimsuit-wearing, giggling children. A laughing Artemis had joined in shamelessly as the only thing keeping her scarlet dress from showing more than she wished was Orion holding on for dear life as they screamed by. Then came the moving blurs of the offending trio, with Angra carrying a small boombox of some sort.
As he passed, the music kicked on, and yakety sax began blaring over its speakers. "Join the conga line, you boring losers!"
Kiyohime didn't, but shook her head with a smile as her gaze remained planted on the young man's reaction. His gaze had shifted all over the place, but it was only when the music began playing that his stare fell after them… Or roughly in that direction. That was all the confirmation she needed, but her curiosity wanted to be sated. She approached again, and closed the final steps as he finally seemed to notice the gentle clap of her slippers.
"Hello there. Omar, was it?" Again, he seemed to stare just past her, but it didn't deter her. "I'm sorry, but I couldn't help noticing... Are you perhaps… blind?"
As his shoulders sagged a touch, she knew she struck a rough spot, and felt terrible for doing so. She was curious, and it may have been insensitive, but no one introduced him as such. No doubt, many would instantly question why an elite military unit has a blind engineer. It only became more obvious with every little moment though, and she couldn't help but feel sympathetic for his plight they attempted to hide for whatever reason.
It was far from the ideal way to introduce herself, but she couldn't help but pity the poor soul... lost in a world that should be filling him with wonder.
¨·..·¨·..·¨·..·¨(¯ˆ·.¸ XV ¸.·ˆ¯)¨·..·¨·..·¨·..·¨
The Command Room had seen far cleaner days, but the Mage's Association team had done wonders plowing through the paperwork. Report after report was stack, filed, and piled in separate areas. Most of the desk was free for reading and organizing, but the other half looked like a terribly balanced scale. Some even had a minor visible bounded field around them to prevent others from messing with the organization.
"We finished these! DON'T. MOVE. THEM. If any of you mix them up, I swear Alaya can't save you…!" Da Vinci still shamelessly giggled at Vernier's commanding voice that one day.
Fortunately, the Clock Tower's team was having a break for the day. Unfortunately, Vernier still found himself back in this room with Touko. Though neatly dressed and prim in his suit, the bearded man's eyes looked terribly like a zombie's. The titled magus sitting beside him, however, looked fresh as spring roses in her usual white collared shirt. Da Vinci withheld her giggle at how straight he stood, if only to try and act prestigious around the other famous Aozaki and above the Vigil.
"Thank you all for being so prompt~!" Da Vinci began as she sat primly on the other side of the table. Her dress was a newly tailored replica similar to the Mona Lisa's, but in her favorite bright blues and reds. Lord El-Melloi II, well dressed in a new red suit with gold trim, stood behind her calmly and glanced between the three present parties. "Vernier has already advised several Leyshifts, but I must thank him for joining our briefing again."
"I take my job seriously," he nodded. "Last thing I want to do is upset a lord."
"You have my sympathies on your tight leash." Vernier glanced over to Sergei, who still towered over all after somehow managing to sit in the tiny chair. Beside him, two lieutenants in dress uniforms, two of Vanguard's attached noncombative assets, stood at ease. To Da Vinci's relief, Vernier's gaze didn't narrow or shift in any way. At least she could trust the two leading Clock Tower mages to be far less confrontational with any Vigil members.
Sergei turned back to her, then gestured apologetically. "Excuse me, Director."
"It's okay~! We love being relaxed around here," Da Vinci hummed, making the large captain smile and nod. Touko huffed with a tiny smile. "This won't take long anyway~! We're just going to discuss what needs to be done for the UN in their advising capacity. Pritchard informed me that you were given authorization to act as the UN's liaison?"
"Correct, ma'am," one lieutenant nodded with a Greek accent. "Captain Romanov and ourselves have been tasked with overseeing Chaldea's Leyshift operations to ensure proper protocol and ethics are not being breached. In the event the Captain is deployed to an emergency, us two will still retain authority."
Da Vinci nodded. "We've given the list of guidelines and procedures to the UN Secretary General. Has there been any notes or complaints regarding our procedures?"
"None, ma'am. If Chaldea has been following the listed guidelines the entire time, then you've been acting in proper accordance."
"Nothing in the reports indicate otherwise either," Vernier commented, but then rubbed his temple. "…Even if there are some minor issues with retrieved property… and some of these incidents are almost fantastic in nature. I must ask. Did Gabrielle seriously try to body slam Quetzalcoatl during the Uruk singularity?"
"Just another of her ridiculous impulses that I'm sure you're more than aware of by now," El-Melloi admitted with a small groan.
Da Vinci only giggled when Vernier nodded slowly in agreement. "I did stop doubting… I just wish one of these outlandish reports were actually falsified sometimes."
Sergei and the lieutenants stared towards Vernier, but Da Vinci only smiled to them happily. "Don't worry, Sergei! We're archiving the reports and sending them to Area 51 for examination. Your team is only hear to advise!"
"A total victory," Sergei nodded gratefully towards his lieutenant and then Da Vinci. No one was surprised, or offended, by Vernier finally presenting an envious glare. The captain merely ignored it. "So we shall stand in Control Room to watch? Or watch in theater with others?"
"We don't showcase the singularity in the theater all the time. We try not to make it Candid Camera," the Chaldean Director giggled. "When we do, it's usually a serious affair, so you're more than welcome to choose which you prefer. I do suggest the Control Room since you'll be able to question us directly."
"Very well. I hope there is better seating," the Russian chuckled as he readjusted himself on his chai-
Crack! The poor roller chair, veteran of the long war for humanity's survival, finally fell to a Russian powerhouse. Like a falling tree, Sergei fell to the ground, but laughed merrily as his leg rebounded into the air theatrically. Even El-Melloi and Vernier cracked a tiny chuckle, though the two lieutenants were doing a marvelous job holding their military bearing. Sergei slowly pulled himself back into view and grinned, "So sorry! So, so sorry! I will replace chair with my own stipend!"
'Well this meeting is livelier than I expected,' Da Vinci hummed to herself. "I'm pleased this is going almost as smoothly as Vanguard's incorporation~! Well… there's the matter of some of the mages and soldiers butting heads, but we'll discuss that after you observe your first supply sortie this afterno-"
Her wrist-mounted intercom beeped. She smiled to it, but it fell quickly when she noticed the flashing red light. The gathered parties glanced to her curiously as she clicked it on. "Control Room? What's wrong?"
"Da Vinci. I know you're in a meeting, but Chaldeas detected a serious problem." It had been well over a month since she heard Tesla's voice so stern. "The singularity centered on Shinjuku, Japan has just escalated beyond the malign types we're used to dealing with. Its threat level is registering on the same scale as one of the seven primary singularities. We're detecting a demon pillar level energy signature within, but we're still trying to peer inside for a better look."
"One of the primaries…" Da Vinci mouthed in disbelief. She shared a glance with a now stern El-Melloi as she eyed her device carefully. "Please keep trying to scan it properly. I'll inform the masters so we can start prepping some landing teams."
"We're on it. Anton and Meunière are making quick headway, so we should have more intel within the hour."
Quick and decisive, just as they've grown accustomed to in the long war… There was just one middle man missing from the usual intel chain. That wouldn't stop them from moving like clockwork. It'd barely been a month, but it was times like this Chaldea proved its worth. Now, the Clock Tower and Vigil advisers were possibly going to see firsthand exactly what they've truly been handling. If Da Vinci had a choice, she just hoped it wouldn't escalate to the expansive scale of the last three.
With the transmission ended, she turned her serious expression to the present parties, who also steeled themselves quickly. "…It looks like you'll be joining us in the Control Room after all."
¨·..·¨·..·¨·..·¨(¯ˆ·.¸ XVI ¸.·ˆ¯)¨·..·¨·..·¨·..·¨
Early evening, the Control Room sounded like chaos to the untrained ear, but to a Chaldean, it was clockwork.
"Leyshift system at optimal efficiency!" "Coordinates locked!" "Landing may be hot! Detecting multiple servant-level energy signatures in the vicinity!"
"About par for the course…" Lord El-Melloi II chuckled in reassurance as he glanced towards Sergei and his observing lieutenants. After nodding to the stern, usually friendly giant, the battle-clad caster turned to Da Vinci and David at the primary console. They typed away rapidly and shifted through the many screens above. One of them showed a view of the Roman Theater, which was quickly filling with interested servants, curious staff, and allied personnel.
Outside the hardened windows, a lone dot blinked with an angry red like a dragon's breath. Anishka and Gabrielle were organizing their gathered teams below. Gudao was in reserve this time, but it was doing little to calm Mashu's concerns and insecurities about not being there to help him; El-Melloi could barely hear them talking outside the Control Room doors.
"So these primaries… They last multiple days?" Sergei asked, earning the nearby Vernier and Touko's attention.
El-Melloi chuckled dryly. "…If this winds up like Fuyuki or France, we'll be lucky. We might be here for weeks."
"At least they have modern amenities~!" Da Vinci hummed to cheer the tension, and thankfully, chuckles echoed through the room. "We're sorry you didn't get more adjustment time, but business calls. Vanguard gets the real experience in the first week!"
Maybe it was chance this didn't happen before the garrisoned UN authority arrived. Maybe it was fate. Regardless of the circumstance, light was finally shed on the unknown shadows in the corner. The servants stayed, and personal reasons aside, they now stared towards confirmation. The world was saved, but Chaldea's mission undoubtedly continued.
- Authorization Codes Confirmed. Target Singularity, Shinjuku, Japan 1999 -
- Unsummon Program start -
- Molecular Reversion start -
…But now every newcomer was going to get their last first impression: Chaldea at its finest.
- Leyshift commencing –
- 3 –
- 2 –
- 1 –
- Process clear –
- Remnants Correction Order –
- Commence –
¨·..·¨·..·¨·..·¨(¯ˆ·.¸ ¸.·ˆ¯)¨·..·¨·..·¨·..·¨
DISCONTINUED SUPPLEMENTS NOTE
¨·..·¨·..·¨·..·¨(¯ˆ·.¸ ¸.·ˆ¯)¨·..·¨·..·¨·..·¨
The next piece in chronological order is Fragment 87. As declared on September 24th, 2018, due to my career taking up more time, future supplement stories of the FGO canon singularities have been discontinued entirely. However, The Lost Shards will have a paraphrased version of the scrapped Supplement V: Butterfly Effect as one of its entries. It's not necessary to read, but it does help you get an idea how things played out if you were interested.