Lunch was just beginning but Halloween celebrations were already in full swing. The ever-growing gaggle of costume-wearing children ran into the gathering crowds around the outdoor cafeteria. Horror themed garnishes made the offerings look scary, yet there was no denying the kitchen crew's mastery rested within. Some extra spider webs and fluffy, cartoonish bats coated the ceiling, yet the lack of a chilly autumn air meant the atmosphere could only go so far.

Not that Medea hated the Resort's warmth. She didn't know if anyone ever could. It was a nice reminder of the good times in her distant home, just with far more relaxing scenery and wonderful vibes. Even the noise of the crowds became a pleasant anchor for the nerves.

Quietly alone, but hardly discontent, the caster sat at a group of tables she reserved for her friends. They were currently shifting among the masses of residents, both costumed or not; Many were. She was one of the few abstaining until the evening. She just preferred to wear her relaxing white chiton with silver accents as long as she could.

Chitons and other dresses had become a staple in her life again. Millenia ago, they became forgotten memories of a more innocent time before her world was darkened with unrelenting reality. Recently, she dared to reach back for those little happy comforts. It was surreal to ponder about… before it wouldn't even have a place in her mind, for she was far too concerned planning and double-checking to ensure the ground wouldn't swallow her whole again.

Now her hair was down and flowing freely in the gentle breeze. She was still Medea, Greek Witch of Betrayal, yet treachery was a nigh-unthinkable option in her plans. She'd never felt so… accepted. Relaxed. Appreciated. Without a doubt, it was that hopeful glimpse from the past war that helped open this door. Though guarded and paranoid, she was more willing to see what could be this time, and she was rewarded for doing so.

As she gently swirled the straw of her Pina Colada, a tray was gently slid partially in front of her. She didn't even blink as she gazed to the offerings. Some of the juiciest fruits from Chaldea's Biogardens barely netted her attention compared to the cute little croissants with cream eyes and black sprinkle irises. Medea smiled, "Clever little mummies."

"Tasty too," Naomi agreed with a smile as she chewed on one of them. Medea grasped one of the little treats on their shared plate, took a small nibble, and quickly agreed. As her friend in a matching chiton sat down, they both stared towards the boardwalk where their entertainment for lunch roused a chorus of cheers. Naomi bobbed her head gently to the singer's first song and smiled. "I see Liz decided on that one."

"Strange theme… but it's Halloween," Medea commented as she took a sip from her drink. On the raised stage, past the small sea of heads, Elizabeth was holding her special microphone and dancing to her own tune. Her costume would be better described as a red bikini with matching greaves and pauldrons, and certainly not the warrior-like armor she claimed the pair would be creating. At least the white cape gave the sort of heroic idea she was going for.

Then there were her new backup dancers Edison helped design. There were only two so far, but the twin metal prototypes did a fair job resembling the lancer. Though still obviously robots with their glossy steel, at least they were colored nice enough to look like robo-ballerinas. This little concert would have looked far stranger if it wasn't Halloween. But, there was no blemishing Elizabeth's giddy expression and cheerful performance as her voice echoed beautifully through her microphone.

~~Huh, because I'm happy~~
~~Clap along if you feel like a room without a roof~~
~~Because I'm happy~~

The song was upbeat, and it almost had Medea humming along too. She at least tapped her sandal to the beat as she watched Vlad's niece with a small smile. The lancer had found her own little happiness. Many had, and many more would with every new arrival, she imagined. She wasn't about to clap herself, but yes, thanks to this unique place, Medea was truly happy with the way things were for her too…

…and this prolonged peace and happiness was what terrified her.

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

Fragment 94: Self-Fulfilling Prophecy

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

Some things never changed. Though Medea would now admit she was far more trusting thanks to this almost nourishing environment, her paranoia could not be shaken. It was a deeply embedded instinct born after countless manipulation and despair. Her past skepticism and cynicism were well-honed defenses in an attempt to protect whatever remained of her feelings… A sense of self preservation that urged her to always have backup plans so she'd come out as best as possible.

Yet Chaldea tried to change that. It offered her a world where she could be happy, and she'd been lured in like a thirsty bee to honey. It gave her true and lasting reasons to drop her guard. One by one, new souls entered her life, and she grew genuine bonds where once only calculated ties were commonplace. She was given peace, acceptance, and freedom to pursue what she wished with companions she couldn't imagine living without anymore.

And that's why her paranoia became a true demon to fear.

As Vlad sat down beside Naomi, her best friend happily began pointing to Elizabeth for the black suit-wearing prince. Medea stared at them both silently with a calm smile. They had been the first two, and more came with the months. Her happiness and satisfaction no longer included only herself, but them among others. She couldn't just discard them like she could anyone else previously.

Plans to save them in the worst possible case were difficult to forge. But she did. Medea had to for those she cared for, but inevitably, all her plans looped back to Chaldea as a whole. She was a mighty caster with often underestimated potential, but she could only do so much by herself. As much as she wanted to have escape plans for the worst possible scenario, she'd come to acknowledge a satisfying but unnerving truth.

Chaldea was the safest place with so many helpful allies… so if Chaldea came under serious jeopardy, even Medea doubted she could save her closest companions. So her plans were simple, but ever paranoia inducing: She would happily agree to do whatever she could to make sure it never came to that. Even if it came to assisting the often prideful geniuses. Even if it meant collaborating with those she'd rather not. It'd all be worth it for Naomi, Vlad, and now many others who wormed their way into her once walled-off heart.

They were worth it all and more for how much true happiness they brought to her. Even in such little moments like this, where Vlad was calmly pointing out Elizabeth was purposefully making fleeting, quick smirks towards Nero, who fumed amongst her fellow Romans; Her 'costume' this year was a toga. Again. Vlad was quick to point that out too. "I heard the Empress said she was a sorority mentor hosting a toga party."

"Any excuse to wear one…" Naomi mused with a tiny smile. "Oh well. Less work for us."

"You two did a great job on some of these costumes. A shame they're only coming out for today," Vlad pointed out as Carmilla strolled by looking like a royal masquerader; Nero wasn't the only one using the excuse of a costume to wear something familiar. Medea still remember how intricate some of the crimson trim, frills, and corset were to craft, but she and her best friend had a feeling Carmilla would wear that one more than once. The assassin and Vlad shared a smile and wave. "Looking for a masquerade partner?"

"He's around here somewhere. Okita actually convinced him to play dress up," she chuckled elegantly as she waltzed away, but offered one last glance to the two tailors. "Thank you again, Stitch Witches. Your work continues to astound."

"You only make it better since you wear it so well!" Naomi complimented back. Medea only nodded with a polite smile; She usually let Naomi do all the flatter talking. The caster was more forward with the critiques. It was a quaint balance. While Vlad finally speared his salad, the supervisor plucked one of the grapes from their plate and hummed. "Oh! Have you seen Xuanzang? She decided to dress like a banana and some-"

There was a flash of light behind them, but Naomi didn't even stutter to a stop, nor did Medea or Vlad flinch; All three of them were far too used to Chaldean shenanigans. "-of the monkeys were chasing her around! Maybe Hanuman Junior hadn't had his bananas yet…"

"I haven't seen it, but I'm sure it will wind up on Thronebook," Medea smiled as she pictured such a ridiculous sight. But her mind found it harder to paint the image by the second. The flash, as with any incident, always came with instinctual caution. Instead of fading, it grew when she sensed a foreign presence behind them. As an ancient weaver of magical energy, she was far more attuned to subtle disturbances and shifts.

She didn't even need those skills to detect this powerful, yet neutral, signature… It glowed with a wanderer's prestige and sang of misty mountain tops where honed precision and honor-bound prowess flowed like an eastern wind. The growing commotion, curious glances, and even wary stares only made Medea's paranoia scream louder. Yet the cries of danger weren't deafening this time… because she recognized this once felt presence.

Naomi and Vlad actually beat her to a glance, and their flinch of surprise was the last vision in her peripherals. Her eyes were quickly snagged by the plume of pink hair in a fiery ponytail, constricted by an ornate black hair piece. A wave of blue hugged her form as a lightweight battle dress, who silken thread was tied by a red, floral sash along her waist. Her black leggings and matching long gloves were a bit worn, but remained firm to improve the pale woman's vanity.

An ornate katana and wakizashi set rested peacefully at her side as she sat at the lone table; Some Chaldean servants looked tense, but likely held back due to the woman's total lack of hostility. How could she look threatening while she was happily slurping on some noodles from… of all things, an ornate, golden grail that mirrored the ones Chaldea stockpiled. With another happy slurp, the woman finally opened her eyes to reveal orbs that glistened with the sky's warmth.

Medea could only blink in surprise while the commotion fell still. "…Musashi?"

The confused woman quickly turned to Medea, and her eyes filled with recognition and satisfaction. After a quick swallow, she smiled and waved. "Oh! Hello, Medea! We meet again! Oh, and there's some others I recognize here too! …Ohhh and some pretty new faces…! And some funny clothes! Why are some of you dressed so strangely?"

As Musashi glanced around eagerly, Gabrielle quickly pushed her way to the front of the growing crowds. The second the master appeared, Musashi's eyes glinted with mirth. Even though she wore a ruby Arabian belly dancer's outfit, this strong swordswoman, who was still a living human, instantly recognized her. "Oh! Gabby too? It's good to see you and the others and wow you look great… wait. Am I in Chaldea? Is this your home you told me about?"

"Musashi! Yes, yes! This is Chaldea!" Gabrielle quickly reassured before reaching past a staff and a robot. She quickly grasped Anishka's hand, then pulled her into view. Medea had to admit, though Gabrielle looked attractive, Anishka looked like a movie star in her matching sapphire outfit. The shorter master pulled her friend over as she waved to the others. "It's okay, everyone! We've worked with Musashi in a past singularity and she's really friendly! Oh, unless you happen to be a pretty boy or girl, if you know what I mean~! Right, Annie~?"

"Wow, Annie! …Wow!" Musashi eyed the other master up and down quickly. Tension finally lifted as chuckles grew rampant; Anishka was starting to turn red as Musashi nonchalantly milked what she saw. The happy hug Gabrielle forced them into only made Anishka more flustered. "I thought you couldn't look more beautiful!"

"Th-Thanks," she quickly stuttered as she fell into the group hug. Medea only watched as the gathered only grew more interested and curious. She filled with relief, but her eyes never left the grail. Of all things, to use it as a bowl for food even after they tried to explain what it was to her… Talk about lack of ambition or temptation. The caster would've used it for her own means and plans.

And that, plus this incident, was what made her worry linger. Musashi Miyamoto, a legendary swordswoman they encountered in a singularity, had just warped directly into Chaldea. Though the caster was guarded, this woman was no threat; But others could be. Someone who knew of Chaldea and got the grail could seemingly just warp inside, or worse. What if they used a grail to deliver an armed weapon without consequence? Or even worse…

With her paranoia running rampant, Medea was compelled to interrupt the warm reunion chatter to address what many other servants were likely wondering. "Excuse me, Musashi… but, I'm sure all of us would like to know how you got here. We didn't exactly invite you or show you a door."

"…Oh… Am I intruding? I didn't meant to, I promise! Please forgive my trespassing!" Medea actually felt a little bad upon seeing Musashi's slightly dejected expression as she bowed towards her. The Greek could've been nicer, but she preferred being more direct with serious matters… like direct infiltration of a warded facility. The swordswoman put a finger to her lips and scrunched her eyebrows. "Um… I don't actually know how I got here?"

Medea, Vlad, Naomi… Really, everyone blinked. Gabrielle shook her head in disbelief. "…You don't know?"

"Sorry, I don't really know…" Musashi chuckled nervously. "I was just eating at a stall, and I was remembering the fun times we had on that adventure! I thought it would be really fun to see Gabby, Annie, Iri, and so many fun faces again…! Then I was suddenly here…? It was like all the other times. I just blink, and suddenly I'm somewhere else."

Medea scrunched her eyebrows and eyed the grail again. "…You mean you didn't use your grail?"

"Use my cup? But that's for food!" There she went again, saying that artifact was her personal eating bowl. Medea watched as she quickly picked it up and the udon noodles swirled within. Her smile was both confident, yet so very naïve from the caster's view. "It always keeps my noodles warm! Oh, but it keeps all the food warm! These grails are wonderful! No bowl in Kyoto could ever match these!"

As Medea contemplated, Musashi grinned. "It made this one stall's noodles taste even better! Or maybe he was just a really good cook? Oh, there was also that other place that made great sashimi! That was a real treat! It's been so long, but I can still remember the texture and taste of… ohhh, now I'm hungry for it again! Too bad I don't know where that place was-"

The grail in her hands flared vibrantly, and barely a second later, before Medea could cover her eyes from the flash… Musashi was gone. All that was left in her wake was dumbfounded silence. Gabrielle was humorously looking under the table and around it for the missing woman. Anishka looked like a deer in the headlights. Vlad, Naomi, and Medea shared a confused stare. The crowd was stunned speechless.

Finally, Angra managed to yell out something between his growing bouts of laughter. "Are you serious!? That chick is using a grail for takeout!? That's amazing!"

"Musashi was a woman? As in the legendary Musashi Miyamoto!?" "So what class of servant was she?" "Anyone else think she was smoking? I know you do, Fergus!"

As the conversations grew, and Gabrielle groaned at their vanished friend, Medea shared a chuckle with Naomi and Vlad. Hers was fainter. She couldn't help it amongst the cloud of worry.

Even if Musashi did it innocently, and somehow was oblivious enough not to understand what her artifact was doing for her yet, a loophole was just proven. Chaldea could still be infiltrated again, and despite more growing countermeasures, they could be attacked. That didn't sit well with her at all, especially after what her best friend went through last time they were invaded.

No… to ensure that wouldn't happen again, Medea was going to see what was taking the Chaldea geniuses so long to upgrade the defensive field.

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

"The geniuses are overloaded, Medea. Surely we can't fault them for that."

Medea sighed. "…You're too nice and lenient."

"Maybe, but you can't doubt they don't know the threat. So many lived through it…" Boudica's trailed off quietly. It was an event best left in the past, but its lesson shouldn't be forgotten. As much as her paranoia screamed otherwise, Medea knew Boudica had a point. The scars were still present.

After all, the giant room of memories they currently stood in held plenty of reminders. "I know… I just can't help but worry. Can't you?"

"I try not to think about it…" Boudica answered with a sad smile.

As she stood beside her knitting friend, Medea remained unsatisfied. She should be here feeling just a bit more relaxed for when the children come around for the masters' planned trick-or-treating route. The caster should be pretending to be, of all things, a witch with the rider. But among the silent memorials, smothered with the gentle fog of her casting, she couldn't help but fear the repercussions of delays would one day hang in droves on the sandstone.

Yet Da Vinci had given all the reassurance she could barely an hour ago. The geniuses were tackling several problems at once, and shifted between them if they hit a wall. Tesla, Edison, and Babbage were constantly refining and juggling their own advancements while doing so. The only slither of good news had been Da Vinci and Lord El-Melloi II's agreement that more efforts could be moved to Chaldea's direct defenses first, so Holmes would be focusing more effort on finding those loopholes.

For the twentieth time since then, Medea convinced herself that would have to do, even if she didn't like it.

With another small sigh, she let the taller woman gently rub her shoulder. After a pause, the rider then gently readjusted the caster's black cloak. The cauldron before them bubbled with green, sickly water… that was actually food-colored fruit punch they'd serve to others at the Halloween banquet; The children would just get first dibs after their little haunted house tour. Speaking of which, Medea could already hear the friendly gaggle approaching the cobweb-strewn massive doors.

Medea adjusted her black witch's cap, then flattened her robes. She scoffed at herself lightly as she glanced at Boudica's matching costume. To think the caster had come to terms with that annoying word to the point she was rather indifferent about dressing up like a witch. She was also a co-founder of the Stitch Witches. But that title had lost a lot of its bite over time. Once in a blue moon, someone would say it with scorn, but for the most part, it had become a friendly title she shared with her best friend.

Only for tonight, she reaffirmed it wouldn't be so bad just to act the part to give the kids a fun night to remember. Medea smiled. "Here they come. Got your wicked smile ready?"

"Mhmm~!" Boudica made her best attempt at a cruel and evil smile, but it only made Medea blink. She looked more like a smug mother proud of her child than a cruel villain. The caster finally laughed and Boudica pouted swiftly. "Hey! We're not supposed to be too evil! Just suspicious!"

"I'm sorry, but it's really hard to think of you as evil," Medea chuckled, then corrected herself and presented her own little smile. It was naturally ominous, yet eerily beautiful. "I guess I'll just have to put on a bit more of an act."

"As much as the cuties will believe from us anyway," Boudica reminded with a tiny smirk, and the two quickly chuckled. Though Medea had been more than content with just the calm company of Naomi and Vlad, Boudica was a nice surprise flavoring; Her optimism made each day a bit brighter. And secretly, Medea had taken a page from the terribly shamed rider's book over the past year. If she could move past her terrible darkness and bloodied hands to knit new thread for her life, then an ancient caster was more than capable of the same.

But tonight, she was evil again… Sorta. "My, my… What have we here…?"

Her voice echoed through the room once the last child's silhouette entered the fog. They froze curiously, and Boudica suppressed a giggle as they looked around cutely. With a wave of her hand, Medea spun a blue magic circle into the air as if she merely breathed. After a flick of her fingers, the large doors suddenly slammed shut. Now it was Medea's turn to suppress her laughter as Chacha let out a very loud scream, followed by a pause, children's laughter… then a loud pout. "Chacha was not scared! Chacha has faced a lot worse-!"

With unbelievable ease, Medea pulled at the ancient mana-filled air of Mount Meru. Another two spells activated, and the fog grew deep. The braziers of the warm room suddenly flickered off one by one until only one by them remained. Its smoldering hope beckoned the children closer, but another quick manipulation by the caster made unseen chains rattle loudly. For Medea, spells of such low caliber were as simple as talking to a friend, and their effects were precise and instantaneous.

By the children's fog silhouettes, Medea made a coffin's door violently flutter. Boudica let a tiny giggle slip as Chacha screamed again. While the other kids laughed again, Kuro groaned. "Will you calm down, Chacha!?"

"Chacha is calm!" That was until the pair's other, concealment-cloak wearing friend finally made his presence known. Medea raised an eyebrow at the sheer amount of dread that filled the air. All of a sudden, the mysterious foggy room felt like a slumbering forest in mid-autumn. The chill that ran through the air managed to send a genuine shiver up the caster's spine, as if the hand of death promised to caress her neck. She and Boudica shared an impressed look in the shrouded darkness as the children mumbled a few dozen meters away.

That's when an absolutely sinister, monstrous laugh rampaged through the room to herald an advancing cloud of midnight. With a chorus of rattling chains, it barreled towards the kids and smashed aside Medea's own thick fog like a snowplow. The kids seemed frozen as the cloud engulfed them. The laughter boomed louder as a new silhouette emerged. It towered over them and formed the specters of a horse and rider. But it was the piercing, glowing red glare held in one hand that flared from the darkness like a gravekeeper's lantern.

"QUIVER AND SHAKE, BUT THIS IS THE END OF THE LINE!" The voice was loud and imposing, and the air was thick with the promise of death. Chacha screamed again.

…But the other children didn't seem to buy it as their silhouettes giggled happily. Jack was the first to call out happily. "Hi, Mister Franz~!"

"Do you have candy for us?" Paul asked hopefully as her figure raised a small pale. Boudica's dam was already overflowing with a giggle fit as Medea tried to shush her… and her own mirth.

"I have nothing for you but the promise of ETERNAL DAMNATION!"The avenger cried out again as the borrowed horse reared up and shrieked. "Tremble before thy fate!"

"Umm… Can we do it after we get the candy?" Illyasviel asked honestly.

Yedda asked quietly with her happy, soft voice. "Do you like the pumpkin head we made for you?"

Medea finally cracked a smile as the headless rider's defeated sigh practically echoed through the room. The children giggled as the shroud of midnight dispersed, revealing the elegant rider in the small gap in Medea's mist. Atop the lap of his battle attire, he had a jack-o-lantern with a hilariously cartoonish happy emoji carved as its face; Its red glare was certainly not threatening. He released the chains in one hand to gently swing at the horse's side so he could scratch the ominous hole of a neck.

He shook his upper body. "I say… It's difficult to stay in character when you children are so battle tempered and confident."

"Chaldea is a fortified structure. If there was truly a threat within, then other servants would have quickly rallied to…" Miyu trailed off as Kuro and Illya quietly dissuaded her explanation by rubbing her shoulders.

"It's alright, Franz. We tried our best." Now Miyu and a few others were genuinely shocked as they stared at the borrowed, beautiful white horse with a golden mane. It was currently looking back at Franz, then nodded. "Achilles said it probably wouldn't be easy."

"Indubitably. Thought I still must thank you two for this opportunity," Franz chuckled lightly as he gently patted the horse's neck. "It felt… pretty good to do that again. Chacha's screaming recalled some fond memories of that midnight ride."

"Chacha wasn't screaming!" Chacha pouted and earned a chorus of laughter. All of a sudden, the cloud of midnight began to form around Achilles' horse and the avenger.

"You weren't scared, were you…?" Franz' laughter echoed darkly again as he picked his chains back up. "Well, you should be. I never thought I'd have the opportunity to enslave one of the great Nobunagas! You will be a prize among the many today! I will have you all ensnared for entering our domain! You have all of eternity to tremble when my chains promise your fate!"

Medea and Boudica nodded to each other; It was their turn now. The caster would relight some blazers like a path towards the pair, where the children would be forced to choose between eternal torture or risking a drink from their concoction. The fruit punch would be a fun little elixir that would make the bad spirit go away. Obviously, the part they cared about would be the tasty drink and a rain of candy afterwards, but their little part in the haunted house script wasn't supposed to be a new Illiad.

"I HEAR THE UNAPPOLOGETIC THREATS OF A SLAVER!" …But of course, it was going to be a crazy tale, because what simple plan ever went right in Chaldea?

The doors to Memorial Hall flew open, letting the evening light stream in. Boudica's mouth quickly fell open upon seeing Spartacus' battle-ready and armored silhouette among the fog. "Oh no…"

Speechless, Medea only stared at the berserker's silhouette as he quickly stared between the horse-riding avenger and the children. In such a small pause, tension grew so very quickly. The caster quickly placed a palm against her face; Why couldn't they just go one week without Spartacus inevitably chasing someone? "ENSLAVING CHILDREN!? YOU ARE THE WORST OF OPPRESSORS!"

"Spartacus no!" "XANTHOS, PLEASE MAKE HASTE!" "Run, Franz!" "Spartacus, wait!"

"Okita! We have a Code S.C.S. in Memorial Hall! I need backup!" Suddenly, there was actual fear in the air as Boudica quickly put her Peacekeeper radio away and ran towards the scattering chaos of silhouettes. "Sparacus, wait! It's a play! You know, like Shakespeare's play! Spartacus!"

"Never a dull day…" Medea sighed as she considered firing a spell to stop Spartacus. Her friend was better at talking him down anyway, so she'd trust her.

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

Like last year, the Halloween Banquet was in Salon de Marie. With so much more space, many new faces, and a significantly tighter community, last year's dinner paled compared to this one. Many of the costumes last year had often been simple. Decorations were plentiful, but rather repetitive in design. This year, the Marie's ballroom looked like an elegant yet haunted castle complete with ghostly floating candles.

The spooky music was drowned out by the droves of costumes residents; Few chose not to participate. Some, like the Celts, shamelessly reused their costumes from last year with just a bit more added flare. They were too focused on their own drinking games and Celtic New Year anyway. Some danced on the floor while many more lounged at tables with more delicious autumn foods crafted by the kitchen crew.

Still in her own witch's outfit, Medea sat beside her best friend at their favorite cluster of ottomans. In her pleasant show of solidarity, Naomi had donned a matching black witch's outfit, even if Boudica still wore hers. Vlad stood out in their group in his rather formal costume. With a cleanly pressed gray business suit, a briefcase of insurance papers, and even reading glasses, one could argue it was a little boring.

Elsa joked it was to ward others away from him for the night. "Who approaches a door to door insurance salesman? You might've held off the Ottomans like that."

The therapist, true to her word, actually pulled off a wonderful Elsa from Frozen. With some help from the two Stitch Witches, even the makeup was perfect. Little Giovanni was having a little trouble squirming around in his Olaf costume, but he otherwise looked cheery and happy. The little carrot baby rattle likely helped keep him entertained.

Much like how the group's favorite past time kept them happy. Medea doubted anyone would be surprised they were knitting at the party. But it was relaxing. It was almost a daily meditation with her other, formerly secret crafting hobby. Sure, lounging, nibbling on the delicious food, and simply enjoying conversation was quaint, but doing that while working thread was a plus.

Even the current silence between them was perfect, if one discounted Giovanni's curious coos. Medea glanced to the ottoman beside her as the baby carefully stared over the small gap. He reached one hand out like he could bridge it, but then dropped it back to his side. With a tiny smile, Medea met the baby's curious eyes and gently placed her knitting needles into her lap. One simple flick of her wrist later, and Giovanni was clapping as she gently levitated him over the gap.

"Yay~! A flying snowman," Boudica cheered quietly as the tiny Italian waved his stick arms towards Medea. The caster was going to put him onto the ottoman, but true to his nature, the baby sure loved being held. With a small smile, she gently levitated the child into her arms.

"There, there… You've landed, Gio." Once more, nostalgia and maternal regret flooded her soul as the little figure sat comfortably in her hold. Her mind naturally fell at ease, even as her heart strings were tugged by the tiny little hands against her chest. The baby smiled up at her, and once again, her mind flashed back to her own children… the ones whose lives she took with her own hands.

Motherhood was supposed to be lovely and empowering. It had crushed her. The marriage to Jason was a cruel hand by high Olympus. All she wanted was a content and happy life, but that was something those famous individuals in ancient Greece often never held long. She still seethed with anger and despair for what had been, and what the world often remembered her for.

Yet there were those who offered her warmth. First, him… That stoic, stern, and almost unreadable man who she'd fallen for. He never held himself as something special, but she certainly did. Maybe she'd have fallen for any man who'd first opened their door to her genuinely, but it had been him.

Her Souichirou… Not a day went by that she'd wonder if he was out there in this world, and she still quietly searched for him at night with her phone and abilities. She had several of his craft coins so they could stay safe in her room and accompany her into battle. She even hoped maybe her former master might wind up a pseudo-servant.

And, almost far too optimistically, she wondered if she might one day hold another child of theirs like she did little Giovanni… this time, with a happier ending.

"You're such a good mother," Naomi chimed quietly as she watched. Medea smiled to her, then glanced between her best friend and the baby. The green-haired supervisor always had that wondering glint, but she never did hold the child, even when offered and trusted by Elsa. After a quick glance to the Italian mother, who only smiled warmly in knowing agreement, Medea made her decision.

"Your turn, Naomi. No buts. You have to learn someday for when you have children," Medea calmly and confidently stated. As Naomi sputtered and waved her crochet-filled hands, Vlad and Boudica stared to her and chuckled. Medea wasn't about to take occupied hands as an excuse, especially with her newfound abilities. "You have to be careful with babies. Hold him close to your chest, but not too tightly."

Medea snapped her fingers. Giovanni laughed as he quickly floated into the air towards Naomi. The supervisor only gawked. "Medea! Wait!"

"Babies like to squirm, but they're just getting comfortable and appeasing their curiosity." Medea only ignored her completely with a teasing smirk. Naomi scrambled to float the needles and project blanket out of her hands as Giovanni wafted towards her. "Just let them sit and talk sweet words to them, and you'll make them happy. Giovanni isn't picky. You know that… You'll be fine."

With hands finally free, Giovanni gently sank into Naomi's stiff hold. The supervisor stared wide-eyed like she was holding a bomb, and Boudica laughed, "Relax, Naomi! You won't die!"

"I will if I drop him!" she complained, then squirmed hilariously with panic as the baby moved to adjust his position. Sitting cradled in her arms, Giovanni stared up at Naomi curiously. She stared back hesitantly, but the baby only smiled and looked around. Slowly, Naomi began to relax, then tried rocking the baby a moment after. Giovanni chuckled, and got a nervous smile from her. "…Like this? You like this, Gio?"

His clapping was the only confirmation she needed. Medea smiled at her best friend. "See? Nothing to worry about. You're a natural… if a bit scared."

After picking her own project back up, Medea quietly enjoyed Naomi's occasional nervous fidgets as Boudica tried to coach her further. Vlad and Elsa fell into their own conversation she considered joining. There was an orchestra of cheers from the other side of, definitely from the Celts enjoying their battleshots drinking tournament. Just over the small divider, simple but elegant piano music quietly hid itself away among the spooky songs and lively conversations.

It was only when it yielded that Medea finally glanced over; It was like a lone bird stopped chirping in the park. But it was just Omar finding comfort in his one hobby, seeing as he couldn't enjoy Halloween quite like many others. At least he had pleasant company who clapped for him, "That was beautiful! Did Mozart teach you that one?"

"He thought I was ready so he showed it to me ten days ago. I… kinda surprised myself learning it so fast." Medea would agree with that. He was far from the perfection that was Mozart, but if he just started learning such a complicated piece and it was already almost done, then gifted was a fair description. Omar, dressed in a casual black suit, chuckled sheepishly. "I messed up quite a bit, but I'm almost there."

"It sounded smooth to me. I guess your ears are better than mine." Kiyohime smiled beside him. Like Tamamo, she'd donned a typical, conservative Japanese schoolgirl outfit. Medea wasn't sure what made them decide on that, but simplicity and comfort was often the best course. Again, like Tamamo's, it was well fit to her form, not that Omar could tell. "How does he teach you new songs?"

"He plays a section twice, then he moves my hands around so I don't have to feel around. It saves time." They shared a small laugh as Kiyohime eyed the keys. "I have a feel for the keys, but sometimes I miscount when changing octaves too quickly… Did you play any instruments?"

"Just a shrine flute, but watching you play piano made it look fun. I wouldn't know where to start though."

"It's an easy instrument to pick up. That's why I liked it." Omar reassured. There was a small pause of silence where both considered saying something. They fidgeted a bit and looked around instead. It was a bit cute, if Medea wasn't so quietly irritated with what was childish crushes trying to carefully take a step forward. If she was honest, she was more irked by the idea she wasn't getting to experience her own former romance while so many bloomed around her.

As if she'd ever admit that… to anyone besides Naomi.

Finally, after the small pause, and while Medea giggled at Naomi trying to carefully hand back Giovanni to Elsa, Omar offered. "…Want to try? I'm probably a terrible teacher but… Maybe a scale or two? A simple song?"

Kiyohime paused to stare at him quietly. She smiled gently, and softly nodded. "Okay. How will we do this then?"

"Um…" Now it was Omar's turn to hesitate, and Medea's stomach protested to her ears. "…May I have your hand?"

Even if Medea didn't really want to look, her curiosity won out. She glanced over and saw Kiyohime gently slide her hand into Omar's open palm. He then gently guided it to the keys, felt around, and placed it proper. He repeated the same with her other hand, then hesitantly laid his hands on top of hers. His nervousness was obvious; It matched hers, though her gentle smile prevailed. "Sorry if this is uh… awkward. I can't think of any other way, so… uhh, how about we um…"

Kiyohime giggled. "You're funny, Omar. Just do what you need to. I'm happy just to be trying something new."

"Oh ok… I just, you know… Don't want to mess this up like an idiot."

"You won't." Kiyohime's soft reassurance made the lightly blushing, blind engineer glance to her, and maybe he felt her small, hopeful smile. Hopefully he didn't hear Medea's quiet but guttural groan at a new blossoming flower. Someone else did. A few actually.

"The princess holds such a sour face for something so precious…" Medea turned back to see Vlad eyeing her with a small smirk. She noticed Boudica failing to suppress her chuckles and light coos as she stared over the tiny divider. Elsa mirrored the rider, but Naomi rolled her eyes gently, making the caster stare at her with narrowed eyes.

"Oh leave them be," Naomi quietly hushed as the first notes were pressed. "They're just being cute. It's a learning experience for both of them. It's perfectly normal!"

"I guess it is a lighter show of PDA…" Medea emphasized with a small sigh. It was though. It was something maybe a touch unique, but rather normal in the grand scheme of things. So much of this was as it painted the atmosphere to resemble a strange dream.

French royalty and heroes moving about offering others their country's beautiful hospitality. At one table, a once feared Greek monster, who turned men to stone, was quietly fussing over wine tasting with her twin sisters, an Indian deity, and a Mesopotamian goddess. By the bar, a famous Chinese martial artist was asking for assistance from some nearby Onis as his drunk assassin friend insisted on trying bar flaring for the first time. The oddities that became the mundane were countless.

But it was almost always naturally calm. Serene. Simplicity of an almost ordinary-like life defined, amplified for the moment by a popular worldwide celebration. Blissful beauty with not a reason for worry. Times like this almost made her forget her ever prodding paranoia.

…Almost.

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

Halloween had lasted well into the night, but the day after was back to business as usual. It was strange, really. It almost felt like going back to a career routine… if the occupation was personally scheduled, flexible, and involved a lot of supernatural activity. But the Chaldean norm was the Chaldean norm.

Though she had a new job, her former was never 'dissolved', so to speak. Medea was a Caster Class servant, and one whose held certain skills that could assist the some residents' unusual needs. In particular, her alchemical expertise, which she shared with Paracelsus and sometimes Jekyll. Tasks merely became more and more sparse as time in Chaldea passed.

Paracelsus was just able to handle most, but Medea found herself returning to the Alchemical Room a bit more often… out of paranoia.

Quietly, without a need for an apron to protect her lavender chiton, Medea went about crushing some ingredients in a mortar and pestle, but quietly kept her pointy ears perked. Among the rows of stacked ingredients, filled vials, empty glass, and more, a few other mages used their free time wisely. Two were from the Mage's Association, and though they bickered sometimes, they kept their distance from each other. That didn't mean Medea was going to trust them with simply 'furthering their own studies' unsupervised.

By all means, they were weak. One gave off a snobby air like the master before her beloved did. She didn't like him on first sight, and though she wanted to keep her distance, she had to be sure of him and others. They may be civil, so to speak, but even if any servant could easily handle these mages, a subtle strike, like a slipped potion, could be disastrous. Even something like a mean-spirited tease could go badly, as she still shamefully remembered.

As much as she wanted to observe by scrying orb, it would likely attract unwanted attention from servants well-attuned with mana. She could also smell the ingredients and concoctions after years of practice from the Goddess Hecate, which was important for verification. Two months of subtle observation and spying… but at least she furthered her own occasional tasks too. The less materials some necessary potions offered, the better. It also paid to be stocked ahead of time for possible, unseen predicaments…

'At least these passed away naturally. My cute cousin would have been so sad.' The rich smell of crushed butterfly wings brought a fond, slightly sad smile to her lips. Maybe she should go snorkeling again with him this week. Watching him play with the fish made for one of their warmer bonding moments.

"Hi, Medea." The simple greeting came from the only magus in the room she really trusted. Medea glanced behind her and spotted Janice's pristine uniform, partially hidden by her lab coat wearing teacher. Paracelsus waved to her, but Janice fixed her new glasses to stare right at her mortar. "Making something special?"

"Something a little more natural for fast blood clotting… and sweeter tasting." The trick wasn't making one light on materials. It was making one that was cheap, but didn't taste like a four-hundred-year-old cheese wheel soaked in a Medieval chamber pot. She still smirked slyly. "But Gabby's green face was priceless when she had to take it…"

"Quite the tease," Paracelsus smiled with a shake of his head, but then quietly placed down a curiously large vial with an unusual liquid. Unlike the many green and cerulean vials nearby, the liquid in this one waxed and waned like an aurora borealis. Paracelsus saw her looking as Janice moved over to her own adjacent desk with stacks of ancient tomes. He smiled as he watched her gently sniff in an attempt to identify. "It's a new concoction. A favor for a friend."

"No wonder I don't recognize it," she mused quietly as she reached over to grab a vial of rare diced Jazbay grapes. "Ask for a good reward."

"If it works, the aftermath should be more than enough reward for me. I'd just like to see my friends happy." Medea offered a kind smile to Paracelsus. She respected him, more because even after what befell him during his pursuits, he still held his ideals and morals dear. His kindness was inviting. His calm optimism was relaxing. Certainly, he was an unusual alchemist, but his search for discovery and knowledge was profoundly magus.

That's why Medea was sure to remind him, and Jekyll, one didn't always have to be quite so philanthropic. "A simple return favor couldn't hurt."

"I suppose not… I could use some fancier bottles for bar flaring." They shared a laugh, which was only interrupted when Janice squeaked. Medea laughed harder when, without even looking, Paracelsus swiftly reached over to Janice's desk and caught the stack of falling books easily. He smiled to his clumsy apprentice, and she pouted with a bright blush. He smiled reassuringly. "Eight days. Your longest record so far. Great job, Janice."

"I was doing so well…" She crossed her arms and sighed as Paracelsus replaced her tomes. "Nightingale will never let me hold a scalpel at this rate!"

"Baby steps, Janice. Empires aren't built in a day, and yours has plenty of room for growth," he reassured as he patted her head. "You're skilled. And I promised you, Nightingale and I will help you find your brilliance. Just be patient."

Medea caught the jealous glance of one of the Mage's Association members. She'd have to keep a closer eye on that one, because the last time another magus got jealous in here… Yes. No repeats. No one really wanted to see Arturia in that state again. She just hoped, like the past two months, the 'sophisticated and disciplined' Vernier continued to keep his team in line. But this was the Mage's Association, and she figured it was only a matter of time before anything changed and they attempted something.

With all the possibilities, she just hoped these kegs didn't go off among others that sat dormant…

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

'It really is back to the ordinary…' She did miss the relaxing festival, but she also missed her new career. They were both more fun than the endless days of learning magecraft or advancing her etiquette as Colchis royalty. If she had to choose, this new life was much more enjoyable.

Gently, Medea swept a feather duster through the Stich Witches' open display case. On the current shelf, some of her small figures begged for a gentle clean so their carefully made paint could sparkle majestically under the display lights. It had to. This one was her favorite, and the last memento of a former model.

…Well, Arturia was certainly not dead, but her cuteness was.

At least it was forever immortalized under her newly known hobby of model making. With one final dusting, Medea stepped back to admire the central figure. It was her previous material body, complete with an azure silk strapless Medea had designed for her to wear for her Valentine's Day date, complete with elegant frills, a royal bow, and matching gloves. Like all her dresses, it was one measured, designed, and executed with passion.

It was a passion not quite done for other models, but that was just because she found Arturia rather cute compared to most. Nero just couldn't measure up because of that haughty attitude of hers. In fact, the fashionistas were some of the harder customers to deal with, but the caster had grown to love the challenge and appreciate their praise lauded on the two partners. That was why those four had their own models flanking Arturia's in the display case.

They certainly wouldn't be the last. "So what other ones you have cooking up in secret? I think we could use a guy model or two."

"Mmm… The hot ones, I presume?" Medea glanced skeptically to her best friend, who merely smiled sheepishly to her. She sighed, but smiled warmly. "If anyone else asked…"

"You would have considered what spell to throw them out the door." They giggled together, but Naomi quickly hugged the caster. There was no hesitation in returning her gesture. "Thank you. I'll figure some way to make it up for the trouble."

"You being here is enough… Let's just leave it at two for now, please." Naomi's nod was enough reassurance.

After breaking apart, they went back to their tasks at the front desk. They'd expected a flood of requests after being closed for the festival, but there were only a handful since this morning. Most of their order list was from Moriarty, Anastasia, and Miyu. Then there were the fashionistas as usual… but not much else for now. It wasn't a good sign for most businesses, but it gave them nice breathing room for once.

Gently, Medea moved over to dust Cleopatra's figurine in a royal white Egyptian dress while Naomi decorated a nearby mannequin with a fashionable rainbow scarf. "So their Comic Shop is finally opening today?"

"And the Casino is still closed because Medb and Fergus can't make up their minds," Medea joked, but then nodded and checked the time on their cashier computer. "It's four so… One hour."

"And Blackbeard offered to stock figurines you wish to sell? That was nice of them."

"I'm just wondering if they will sell…" Medea still believed it was pretty creepy to buy another servant's figurine. Honestly, she was nervous and embarrassed when Blackbeard found out she was making figurines of Arturia… but his encouragement was oddly reassuring. She supposed if they actually did sell, she could spend some side time fulfilling special orders, but it couldn't get in the way of her main business with Naomi. So for now, it was just testing the waters. "I mean, Illya already bought one of them with her allowance."

"Every venture always starts with one," Naomi smiled. "Just don't bury yourself tired, okay?"

"Promise," Medea declared, and was about to move onto the next figurine when a voice rang through her mind.

"Medea? Are you two busy right now?" It was Atalanta. Curious, Medea instinctively glanced around for her, making Naomi stare curiously. She wasn't expecting to see the battle-clad Atalanta come into view so soon. Didn't they deploy three hours ago for the afternoon supplies? Confused, she still smiled and waved to the archer as she approached the doors slowly. "I've got some more of your special books… but…"

Thoughts of new possible erotic romance scenarios were quickly pushed aside as Atalanta smiled to Naomi. "Hi, Naomi! This isn't a bad time, is it? I returned a little early with a special surprise."

"Oh, we and the staff are just cleaning!" Naomi reassured, then tilted her head. "Surprise of what sort?"

"I think it's best to see for yourself." At least her old friend's smile didn't herald trouble, and it certainly didn't appear. Instead, what did follow was the notion today was not going to be an ordinary day for the caster. Certainly not after Atalanta glanced to the side and motioned over to the newly appeared servant. "Come on! Don't be shy! We're not being rude!"

Medea couldn't find her voice as her mouth fell agape. Eyes widened like saucers upon seeing a familiar cascade of beautiful gold hair. The small figure and porcelain skin felt like a dream, and vibrant eyes of the most innocent viridian glanced between the Greek archer and the partners. White gloved hands fiddled nervously before her as Medea took in the beautiful white battle dress she wore. Suddenly, after seconds of staring, Medea's elegant demeanor finally crashed like a fiery plane wreck.

She let out a joyful squeal, the likes of which would make schoolgirls stare in envy. Naomi practically joined her as Atalanta laughed at them. Maybe one of the other staff or robots heard her as they cleaned other parts of the store and backroom… but Medea actually didn't care! They could remember something embarrassing like that, because today had just become one of her best days in Chaldea thanks to her past Argonaut friend!

"I told you they'd like you," Atalanta reassured quietly as the two dropped their tasks and rushed over. The small servant took a hesitant step back, but then stared in wonder as Medea and Naomi's glittering eyes looked over the new arrival. "Medea, Naomi… I'm sure she doesn't need any real introduction, but we managed to bring her home. This is Lily, Arturia and Arthur's new little sister."

"She actually made it back!? Wonderful!" Naomi marveled. "Hi, Lily! We're the Stitch Witches, Naomi and Medea! We design and make clothes for the other Chaldeans!"

"Ohhhhh I can't wait to make clothes for you! You're even cuter than Arturia was before her operation~!" Medea definitely didn't care how she looked right now. Her favorite model had 'returned,' but she became even cuter! "It's so nice to meet you, and welcome to Chaldea!"

Finally, Lily let out a happy giggle and curtsied like a lovely ballerina. "Thank you! I hope we'll get along, so please take care of me! I wouldn't mind some nice clothes like Artu… I mean, my older sister had. Mordred is giving me much of her old wardrobe since it was too girly but… May I request more too? Is that okay?"

"She's so cute…" Naomi practically fawned as Medea nodded quickly in agreement. "Of course, Lily! We'll be happy to make clothes for you!"

As Lily giggled happily in thanks, Medea sighed blissfully. "This is a beautiful day… Thank you, Atalanta. I know you want to save all the children you can but… This was a wonderful surprise."

"I knew you'd like her." Medea smiled to her and nodded… but stopped when she saw Atalanta's smile. It was satisfied and warm, but it also held a hint of… apology? For what? She loved this… unless… On cue, Medea's natural paranoia began to grow. It was common for one to introduce good news first before presenting the bad, but what bad news could possibly follow this? "But she's not the only new face you'll be meeting today."

"…Don't tell me Jason is here." That was the worst possible scenario, so she blurted it out quickly. Thankfully, it earned a small chuckle from Atalanta and a quick shake of the head. Her impression from those days had evened out after many genuine talks together, so she knew very well the caster would never be quite 'accepting' of him again. Medea sighed with relief. "Okay… so the news can't be that bad… It is bad news though?"

"Well~… With what we know of you, it certainly would be," Medea turned her head to spot Chaldea's battleclad director strolling to them happily… though it was the servant at her side that made her blood freeze and scream. "…buuut we needed to confirm our theory on bringing servants back, so~… We had a sample size of two this time~!"

Lily quickly smiled and ran towards the pair of approaching servants while Naomi clapped her hands together in surprised delight. She still passed a worried look to Medea, who was not smiling. At all. The news of an innocent child-like Arturia vanished from her mind with a growing cloud of rain. As the other servant's giggle rang through the air like a spring morning, Medea sank into a pool of dirtied mud. She was frozen… staring at the small caster she wouldn't mistake for anyone.

Beautiful blue hair, just like hers. Matching eyes, the innocent mirror to her experienced gaze. An all too familiar staff. Plus a royal, cerulean dress that made the small girl appear like a mythical fairy from one of Nursery Rhyme's tales. Yes, there was no doubt she stared right at her smaller counterpart, who now gazed back curiously at the older princess.

…Without any doubt, this had suddenly become one of the worst days imaginable. 'So this was why it's been so peaceful… The future is going to be awful.'

Atalanta smiled sheepishly. "Naomi… Medea… This is Lily's best friend she's spent a month with in that singularity. I… think you know who she really is, but Lily has been calling her Mia."

"Mia is a cute name," Naomi insisted with a warm smile as she waved to the younger caster.

"My life is ruined…" Medea's reaction made the other grown women laugh sheepishly, but she quickly narrowed her eyes at Atalanta. The archer only smiled back apologetically; Medea was mad, but she really couldn't blame her. Together for a month? No way the Greek archer would dare separate two children. She let out a slow sigh, and stared at the irritatingly calm Da Vinci. "So… How did Lily make it through this time? And… Mia too?"

"Oh~! A genius' explanation time~!" Da Vinci called out, then cleared her throat proudly. She even summoned a pair of glasses to look extra smart; Medea wanted to face palm. "Like we noted in the little research article everyone received earlier this month, we were aware of a few key requirements and circumstances to bring a servant home. A temporary contract with a Chaldean Master. Their saint graph must be stable. But it was the last one that proved false when we tried to bring little Arturia back earlier this month… They don't have to be a child servant, but something else was needed."

Medea gave her a slightly sharp look, but Da Vinci merely puffed her chest and continued being long winded, much to her irritation. "But that's why geniuses experiment! So that we can find potent evidence to conclude the correct parameters and found a new discovery! So that's what I did with my next thesis, which proved to work for both of Chaldea's new children~! The final piece of the puzzle? The servant must be absolutely willing to leyshift to Chaldea without any reservations or doubts. That's what stopped the other Lily from coming. All it took was sweeter talk, incentives, and convincing that all would be okay~!"

"…So the doors to duplicates has opened…" Medea grumbled as she stared at her smaller form. Immediately, the young caster flinched and hid partially behind Lily for protection. The little saber shot a pleading look to Medea… and she had to admit, it had more sway than it should have. She still sighed with disappointment. "I hope this doesn't mean we'll be seeing dozens of the same servants… I don't want to even imagine multiple Gilgamesh or Ozymandias…"

"Don't you worry about that~! Likely case is Atalanta will just want to save more children~," Da Vinci reassured with a wink to the archer, then smiled back to Medea. "I can't imagine we'll be able to convince berserkers or mentally conflicted to come… Prideful heroes who are somewhat disinterested? It's still curious how that last condition works, but I believe it only opens the doors to a few new faces in our future. No question, the summoning chamber will remain the real welcome mat!"

'I hope it stays that way.' There were enough servants already without duplicates. Three Jeanne d'Arcs was already a crazy concept, but now there's… four King Arthurs? Not that she'd complain about the newest, cutest one to skip into the halls. She really missed dressing up Arturia.

Yet, she had a small experienced feeling that said they'll likely run into a 'duplicate' problem involving one servant. She just hoped they'd be a civil one.

More civil than she was subconsciously being at the moment. After a small hum from Naomi, Medea realized she'd been lightly glaring at little Mia this whole time. The older princess glanced to the supervisor, who smiled hopefully to her… That hopeful smile she used when she was trying to convince her of something she wouldn't agree with. And, being her best friend… she'd likely and irritatingly succeed. Medea groaned lightly, "Just say it, Naomi…"

"Please be kind to little Mia?" Yup. That was going to be a difficult to impossible chore. Naomi knew why, yet she still pushed, but did her the favor of stepping closer to whisper. "Medea, it's little you… She's innocent. I know you hate how, um… inexperienced you were back then, but she looks bright and hopeful. Maybe you can't see her as your little sister but… Maybe it's a chance to let a part of you live as a carefree, happy child again?"

…Dammit. Dammit all! She really, really hated it when Naomi offered her perspective because she could be very intuitive sometimes. She had a point. A really good one, but it still grated her soul to accept her youthful naivety…

But what choice did she have now? Mia was here. She was apparently Lily's best friend, so they'd definitely be around each other often. And if she didn't look after her nicely… wouldn't she be just giving her a hard time in her own way, just like the gods and Jason did to her?

Medea really, really hated it when she was dropped into a corner with no room to plan… but she supposed this really wasn't the absolute worst bad event that fate could have swung like a warhammer. With a small blend of disappointment and seething irritation, she let out a long sigh and stared at the still cowering Mia. "…Do you have a room yet?"

"Ummmm…" Sheesh, was she really this squeamish back then!? She had a younger form's memories and abilities thanks to a memorial essence, but this was ridiculous to see firsthand. "…No…?"

Medea blinked, shook her head, and quirked her lips. "Then you can room with me… for now. I'll even see about getting you some clothes by tonight so you don't have to sleep in that dress. But it's my room, so my rules. Understand, Mia?"

Lily smiled adorably to Mia, and a tiny smile finally resparked on the caster. Atalanta, Naomi, and Da Vinci giggled as Mia quickly stepped around her, curtsied gracefully, and smiled as cutely as any of Chaldea's other children. It nearly made Medea's eye twitch, but she said nothing more after her almost sing-song cheer. "…Thank you! I promise I won't upset you for taking care of me! I know what will likely make you mad so… I'll do my best to make you happy!"

She nodded, and hoped to the gods that this outright travesty was the worst event she'd have to deal with all month.

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

In all honestly, Medea often failed to recall how kind and courteous she was in Colchis; The naivety stuck out due to fate. Mia had been almost too respectful, but she wasn't a bad roommate. Rushing some quick chitons and nightgowns had been easy since she knew her dimensions well. Though she wouldn't admit it, she'd ensured her younger form looked cute in her new clothes. She'd rather not see her young counterpart sleeping in poverty under her watch… That would have looked damning.

But it seemed the inconveniences and concerns had only begun to spring leaks in the dam, which sheltered her peaceful life. "Naomi. Please calm down. Deep breaths."

"I know… I know, I'm still trying. He's okay. I'm just being… Yea, deep breaths." They were up earlier than usual, even for the usually stringent Naomi. Medea even had to straighten out a few mistakes in her best friend's usually perfectly worn uniform; Her rush and panic was real. But the caster in a lilac sundress with white blouse had managed to calm her down just enough before their destination.

Medea rubbed the supervisor's shoulder as they entered the Medical Bay. It was far more packed than it should have been for a bit before five in the morning. But Medea hadn't seen it so packed with Vigil personnel before. Tired, sweaty, and worn. Some of their uniforms were a mess that smelled of smoke-filled hardship. Their own concern and tension in the waiting room was like a wave of sweltering air that greeted them at the door. Only a few had turned to look, and even the busy Samantha was too tied down to greet them proper.

They didn't care. They just strolled through the waiting area, then through the double doors to the patient wing. Medea glimpsed the red scrubs of a dutiful berserker just as she ended a discussion with the uniformed David. Like a blur, Nightingale was already rushing down one hall as Vanguard's own medic ran the opposite direction. The archer glanced to them, then quickly waved. "Florence called you?"

"Da Vinci," was Medea's quick reply. She'd reached out to Medea first to break the news just minutes after Vanguard's Angels practically screamed into the Aerodrome. Their classified operation against a sect of rogue mages had gone south quickly when a Mage's Association enforcer team advanced blindly and got ambushed. She made the right call choosing her to tell Naomi rather than doing it herself.

"He had it bad, but he's stable. Nightingale got to him first at Artesia's demands. Third room on the left," David quickly informed as he pointed down the hall the medic ran down. "He can talk, but please don't talk his ear off. Ah… but Gudao and Sergei probably already are anyway."

They nodded their thanks, and quickly speed walked down the hall. A few medical robots were zipping back and forth, but moved out of the pair's way easily. It was barely a blink later that they arrived in front of his closed door. The sign read his name, but also stated visitors were accepted, a testament to Nightingale's speed and skill. Naomi glanced to the doorknob, but Medea held her to wait upon hearing the not-quite calm conversation within. She even sensed a troubled Artesia with them.

"Just can it, Gudao. This is hardly my first time in a hospital. At least I'm yakking to you and not convulsing on death's door again."

"Don't even joke about that! Your old doctors were god awful and that last one deserved to get their license stripped!"

"Well I had the best one this time, and you know it! So can it! I'll be walking again in a few days. No big deal, so unruffle those feathers. I didn't lose anything!"

"Just your last command seal…" Sergei's gruff sigh made her ear twitch. "You made good call, but you should calm down too, Cloud. He is cousin. Family is allowed to worry."

"…No. You're right, Vima… If those stupid mages didn't clusterfuck so hard and nearly got the Church guys killed, I wouldn't have made him worry…" Skyler sighed.

Artesia's scoff was louder. "Their incompetence was remarkable. Why can't more mages be like the ones Chaldea seems to attract?"

"I don't think it's best to enter quite yet," Medea noted quietly as a robot zipped by with a medical cart filled with bloodied bandages. "Let's give them a bit… give you some time to calm down too."

"…Alright…" Naomi breathed deep and fiddled with her fingers as Medea rubbed her back. She hated seeing the few she cared about upset. She wasn't quite… happy or perfectly trusting about the reason this time though. Nevertheless, that was just her jaded and cautious voice in her mind. Medea couldn't really deny what was happening.

Naomi and Skyler grew friendly and close quickly. And it all started with their mutual coffee addiction. Yet, Medea knew that look in Naomi's eye, for she'd felt the same twinkle in her own eyes before: Once under an influence, and another from genuine appreciation. As much as she understood Skyler was a pretty decent guy, she just couldn't let go of her reservations. Not quite yet. She had to be defensive for her best friend, just in case.

But it was clearly obvious to more than just her that something was growing between them since Da Vinci decided to contact her immediately. Speaking of which, she felt her presence grow from behind, and the caster quickly turned to stare. There was only a faint smile, and it was apologetic, but the battleclad director strolled up to them peacefully with a manila envelope under one hand. "He's busy, I take it?"

"It's a bit heated. A usual at a ward," Medea offered as Da Vinci stopped before them and nodded kindly to Naomi. "Come to see him?"

"Him, Artesia, and Sergei. When time allows. I'm certainly in no rush, and things are crazy… so I'll return if I have to~…" Da Vinci hummed to try and cheer up the mood.

It didn't really work, but Naomi nodded slowly. "…Was it really bad? His injuries?"

"A high-voltage bolt to the leg and arm, from what I heard." Medea narrowed her eyes for her lack of finesse, but maybe it was best to be direct. "Nightingale worked her magic though, so you have nothing to worry about~… He'll be out of commission for a while, but that's on the Vigil's side. We're helping them with damage control since they just lost one of their prized masters."

"His command seals are…?" Naomi asked, and Medea nodded with Da Vinci. Naomi glanced to the door and paused. "…Then Artesia isn't his servant anymore? Will she disappear?"

"Nope~! She's fine. Pritchard and I prepared for this worst-case scenario well ahead of time. Our gifted supply of golden apples kept her stabilized with enough time to spare to have her registered by the Fate System… So she's technically a Chaldean servant now. But she still considers herself Vigil and Vanguard and will continue to serve with them. Not that I'd disagree with that."

'Three servants in 24-hours…' It was almost like when Chaldea first started up. She remembered the chaos of those days, but multiple summonings were a bit unheard of recently. This one was likely going to be a bit of a mess with the Vigil, but at least the two organizations were allied. Better yet, Medea didn't have any responsibilities to deal with involving that; Better Chaldea's heads than her. "Then what happens with Skyler now? He's not her master anymore."

"…Maybe for now…" Da Vinci muttered very quietly as she tapped her fingers against the manila envelope, earning Medea's curious stare. But the inventor's pause was non-existent, so Naomi missed it. "…That, we'll have to wait and see. We'll be handling it, but I speculate whatever develops from here will likely be interesting. With little paperwork. I wish."

Just so long as it didn't get worse, Medea was willing to be intrigued by whatever 'interesting' meant… but she grew a rough idea as she eyed the blank manila envelope.

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

To Medea's relief, nearly the rest of the day was… ordinary. Again. Naomi was far more relaxed after seeing Skyler was rather energetic, if not a bit mopey. They'd finalized a new comfortable cardigan line that was nearly as fluffy as her prized golden fleece. They'd found a great supplier of some classy modern silks to import. Knitting was uneventful except for the Sphinx Kittens scampering off with a few of Elsa's yarn balls.

Too bad Medea's paranoia never levelled out to a subtler lump in her throat.

As she entered the library on a small errand, its serene peace only made her thoughts louder. Two bad events one after the other was merely coincidence, but her mind said they were too calm. They were speed bumps in the overall peace compared to most; Mia's arrival only really irritated her, but she was surprisingly getting used to it so long as she doesn't embarrass or mar her image. So her paranoia insisted something worse was on the horizon… but what?

Pushing her thoughts aside as she strolled to the front desk, she was surprised to see Medusa in a black turtleneck sweater staring at her calmly. After a quick glance around, the caster spotted Helena, Shakespeare, and Hans by one of the table windows quietly discussing something. The rider quickly spoke up, "They're talking about finding extra help. Four librarians works, but more free time for all of us would be nice."

"I imagine Hans would like more time to criticize… anything…" Medea joked, and she shared a small chuckle with the rider. "Good afternoon, Medusa. I was told two books for us arrived with the supply sortie?"

"That they did. Helena kept them up here for when you had time," Medusa stated as she reached to one of the desk's many slots and pulled out a pair of old books. "Victorian fashion books. Doing research off the internet?"

"I prefer hands on when I can. Books feel proper," she insisted as she gently took the books. Their blue covers were worn, but well kept.

Medusa nodded. "I know the feeling. Something about reading on a tablet feels off."

"Nostalgia traded for convenience. They both have their place," Medea surmised, and they both nodded. It wasn't often they talked, and they weren't quite real friends, but they'd grown a civil respect for each other. Two outcasted Greek women whose images were marred by history, now just trying to live a calm life on their own terms. A nice conversation here and there, but nothing remarkable. "Thanks. I'll leave you to your reading, and hope no one else interrupts."

"I won't mind if they do. This is my third read through," she reassured with a small smile as she raised her book back up and fixed her glasses. "…I wonder if Ana would like reading too. Or maybe she'd rather be pampered by my sisters all day. Or play with Asterios or the others in place of being an eternal guardian…"

Medea quirked an eyebrow and paused her leave. "Ana? The little you from Babylon? I don't recall her being rescued yesterday."

Medusa shook her head with a tiny smile. "No. Still only a memorial essence… but if they find her out there, maybe not quite that Ana… Mmm. No question, my sisters will want to rescue her, and from what the article this morning said… There's no way she would disagree. So I might as well come to terms that I'll have a little me."

"…You're taking it better than I am…" Medea smiled with exasperation, and Medusa chuckled.

"Mia doesn't seem so bad. I wouldn't mind Ana either… So long as she doesn't rub all the attention she gets in my fac-"

A sudden flash ripped through the room and had both women instantly on guard. It was hardly the warm bask of a camera's attention, for the disruption of Mount Meru's mana shook the chandeliers and raised some goosebumps on the caster. Whatever just occurred, it was precisely woven and intricate. No novice could pull off such an ancient-feeling act. Her newly summoned staff was held firm, and she shared a concerned look with Medusa.

But it was Shakespeare's startled cry that earned their focus. "Helena!? Where art thou!? Hans! Did you see her go anywhere!?"

"If I would, don't you think I'd have raised the point by now? I was right next to her too!" he scoffed angrily. "Your theatrics are too much!"

As they bickered, but moved about the large library, Medea stared to the seat she last saw Helena. She could feel the lingering mana and practically see the wavy disruption. The other two casters would never be able to see it, but Helena would have. It was almost like a seared orb that the mountain desperately tried to heal. One whose central core faded with foreign energy from somewhere else. Medea's eyes widened as her paranoia roared. '…Almost like a portal…'

"Medea? Do you know what happened?" Medusa asked tensely, and the caster gulped as she watched a fear of hers slowly knit itself closed.

But she didn't need to answer. Chaldea's loud alarm klaxons and flaring red lights did for her, along with Da Vinci's disturbed cry.

"EVERYONE WITHIN CHALDEA! EMERGENCY ROLL CALL IMMEDIATELY! THIS IS NOT A DRILL!"

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

Servants ran about with inquiries. The Masters' yells echoed through the large space. Da Vinci's own orders and verifications sometimes flared through the loudspeakers. The tension and panic was so thick, even Chaldeas' gentle spin within its cradle leaked of ominous dread.

The Deployment Room had only looked this chaotic few times before. It was unnerving. It usually never spelled anything good. The conditions this time made it worse since Medea's fear had been confirmed on the scanners just minutes before: Four Chaldean servants had been forcefully warped out of the facility.

If there was any good news, it's that Da Vinci, Edison, Anton, and Meunière were doing some diagnostics on the leyshift system when it happened. They'd quickly followed the dispersing trails to one special singularity where the culprit hid. Almost immediately when they did, the once benign singularity flared red, and a familiar presence was revealed. Of course… it had to be another angry Demon God Pillar.

"Masters! I hope you picked your teams! We'll have the leyshift ready in five minutes!" Da Vinci called out through the speakers.

Medea stood off to the side among many other battleclad servants. The potency and precision of this act, which pulled servants across space time, had her very curious and concerned. She wanted to be part of the expedition to know just who was capable of doing this with a pillar's aid… but there were others worried too. At worst, if not picked, she'd just have to observe from the theater while keeping her dearest friends close.

"Medb. Are you sure you won't insist to go? It's Fergus who's missing…" Gabrielle whispered nearby. Medea glanced at the master, the only one of the three in their original uniform. She then saw Medb's confident smile, and a calm shrug.

"Come on, Gabby. This is Fergus we're talking about. I'm content just knowing where he is, because you know my hunk can handle a lot, and give a lot~…" Medb winked to reassure. "A faster reunion would be nice, but since you're not going, I'm not too invested. We can watch him rock from the theater if we have to."

"Gudao is leading this one. And Anishka's practically a weaker healing caster. They'll be in good hands," Robin nodded beside them.

"I guess… I just hope we find them soon. I'm worried," Gabrielle admitted as she glanced to Gudao and Anishka at the front of the servant cluster. Anishka stood in her Chaldean battle uniform while Gudao stood beside her in his own redesigned version of the Mage's Association Battle Robe. He quickly scratched his red sweater vest, readjusted his cloak, and then received Anishka's nod once she looked at the clipboard in his hands.

"Everyone, please listen up! We've just finalized the roster! This is a search and rescue mission, so we'll be relying heavily on those best suited for scouting and espionage first! I know many of you are worried and want to deploy too, but we have to prioritize speed and efficiency so we know what we're dealing with! We can't risk more to an enemy strong enough to pull servants right from under us!"

Without any hesitation as the chatter died down, Gudao stepped to the side and pointed to Anishka. "Anishka's team… Arjuna, Medea, Fuuma, Astolfo, Robin Hood, and D'Eon! Quetzalcoatl was just told and will be arriving shortly!"

Gudao then raised his hand above him. "My team will be taking Blackbeard, Anne, and Mary. Chiron, Asako, Cursed Arm, Kiritsugu, and Cu are also on their way! We'll be making a reinforcing team when we get information on the ground, so please consider yourselves to all be on call!"

"Senpai! I object!" Mashu quickly yelled as she pushed herself to the front. With her hands clutched before her Chaldean uniform, she stared worriedly at him. "You're only bringing six! Where's your personal servant!? What if there's a strong enemy!? You remember what happened in the Seventh Singularity! I…! What if…!"

Gudao stared back apologetically as the air grew a bit awkward. He'd mostly been completing supply sorties and rather light singularities since Mashu's forced retirement. Now they were going in blind, to what her nerves felt like may be one of the bigger conflicts since their return to Earth. Of course she'd be worried… just like Medea would feel helplessly desperate if robbed of her own powers.

"Don't worry, Mashu! Da Vinci guessed ahead of time!" The crowd parted as two figures lead the many other arriving battle clad servants through the Deployment Chamber Doors. Ereshkigal was quick to leap over the crowd instead, followed closely by Enkidu as they landed gracefully beside the worried young girl. Erehskigal beamed and clapped her hands onto her shoulders. "Enkidu and I will watch over Gudao! The only better bodyguard replacements would be if that King came too."

"Eresh? Enkidu? Da Vinci asked you to…?" Gudao stammered, but then quickly refocused. "Forget it. No time to argue. If the director wants you to come, and it makes Mashu feel better, then let's do this! We can't waste time while our comrades are out there in who knows what!"

"Hopefully it's just a stroll, but if things get interesting enough, Gil might come sightseeing too!" Enkidu chuckled, a bit too cheerfully. "It's been a while since I joined a fight. Eresh and I will be sure to keep you safe, Gudao!"

As Mashu graciously hugged Ereshkigal, Da Vinci boomed over the loudspeakers again. "One minute, Gudao! I hope everyone is ready!"

"Yaaaaar! Damn right we are! Time to go save my waifu!" Blackbeard roared eagerly, which only made Anne and Mary groan in absolute disgust. "Hold the fort and save some for us, Drake! We're sailing for ya!"

"Good luck everyone!" "Make it back by dinner!" "Please bring Berserker back! We're scared for him!" "Tell Fergus I'll wear sexy lingerie tonight for the trouble!"

As the calls echoed forth, and the comradery swelled over the tension, Medea floated after the masters and the other chosen. Shakespeare ran past urgently trying to convince Gudao to let him come too; A rather curious move from the caster. Some others stretched as they walked while a few summoned their weapons ahead of time. The tension was high, but the minds of all were clearly focused and moved as one.

Alert or not, going in blind didn't sit well with her. All they knew was that there was a Demon God Pillar in 2000AD, somewhere underneath the Himalayas, of all places. It was time to snip another loose thread, and hopefully close this dreadful invasion loophole as a result. As much as she hated when her paranoia was right, sometimes things moved faster once the hard lesson was delivered.

…But, to her disappointment, she had the lingering feeling this singularity was still just the fringe of a new storm about to break over Chaldea.

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

DISCONTINUED SUPPLEMENTS NOTE

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

The next piece in chronological order is Fragment 95. 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 VI: Once Upon a Time as one of its entries (Coming Soon). It's not necessary to read, but it does help you get an idea how things played out if you were interested.