Every window was a frustrated painter's canvas. Streaks of blinding white assailed the panes like impatient brush strokes. The mountain view was long lost to the blizzard that howled endlessly that morning. Yet, for all its rage, its chaotic echoes fell smothered through the salon's towering windows.

Within Chaldea's grandest room, the warmth of the chandeliers and sconces repelled frigid thoughts. The ballroom section remained mostly empty, and the muffled roar of vacuum cleaners had only just started moments before. Despite that, the room basked in a pool of contented silence, tendered by regal comfort. Its alluring promise of welcoming luxury beckoned to every ear.

To any looking in, it would have seemed like an old-time movie, complete with an unpracticed soundtrack played by a famed musician's blind student. Near the teacher and pupil, Sanson and Gilles cleaned and chatted at the bar. Marie napped at one of the couches, curled up under a crimson blanket for extra warmth; Anastasia claimed another further away, watching the storm alone. They were the only few other companions, but the last regular wasn't interested in a nice little chat.

Until this morning's deployment, Vlad was more than content enjoying the profound stillness. Wrapped snugly in a favorite black robe with silver trim, he sat alone among his group's favorite ottomans. Upon one of the accompanying plush armchairs, he sat kingly. It was no throne, but the atmosphere of the salon never ceased its attempts to stir nostalgia. If only there was a brimming fireplace, it would have felt perfectly like his old castle.

Though the comfort of his home remained a memory, treasured moments of his past once more blessed him in Chaldea. If asked to name them, some may guess it was the nostalgia of fighting valiantly for a cause they believed in. Others might answer he relished in royal luxury when not at war; That wasn't far from the truth. But it wasn't. Only his closest friends in Chaldea understood what truly placed his mind at ease.

Silence. The profound simplicity of stillness often overlooked by many.

For many who lusted for war most of their lives, it likely fell boring. For those who chased adventure, it probably seemed too mundane. To the noble berserker-turned-lancer, who'd known a life full of troubles and war, satisfaction was a warm fireplace within his castle before the Ottoman invasions threatened his lands. It was a profound, luxurious simplicity he'd lost the day he grabbed the first stake.

From that day forth, silence had once more twisted with the horrors of war he inflicted upon his enemies… but he'd found contentment again.

Its first embers were long after the trials of a terrible mad enhancement. They were tendered shortly after that strange whim of joining a table with a lone supervisor. By the time he'd undergone that specialized surgery, he was free again, and that now-roaring fire warmed his core. To once more bask in the silence fate had robbed him of, the Prince of Wallachia would gladly relish it day after day.

Nevertheless, Vlad knew all too well that even in hushed serenity unspoken demons lay forgotten.

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

Fragment 101: Sounds of Silence

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

Before the light even faded, his mind roared in an unseen cage. Like constricting snakes, his body felt immobilized yet limber. Powerful but vile. Right, yet so very, very wrong. Every inch of him pulsed with a sickly promise for a power he never dared reach for, all because of this class container…

'And the offending master!' his mind frothed to conclusion. With a vision seemingly tinted with the crimson hues of his unnatural thirst, the berserker stared angrily towards whoever lay closest. He felt the presence of a master, but a weak one. A paltry master who would offer nothing more than a snack-

His sanity growled in torment; That thought felt so naturally right, but it was vile and unforgivable.

It was just like that time with that other accursed, manipulative magus… No, this was no mere repeat. Because of his container, part of him actually believed this is who he must be. That he, the Prince of Wallachia, must be forced to accept the world had come to know him as an unrelated hideous tale. He must embrace who he never was for the sake of humanity, even if an equally firm voice cried out in ridicule.

Vlad III was not Count Dracula. But this container declared otherwise. Whereas he'd fervently denied and vehemently corrected such irritating notions in a past summoning, now he had to serve and live as these forced presumptions? All because an author took a rampant idea to pen? Or was it the slander of the Ottomans after defeating him to sully the name of a Romanian hero!?

Vlad blamed everything and anything, but one became the immediate target of his wrath. The voices within clashed as his own lashed out towards the offender. "I've made my way here, and this is how I am repaid…? Are you the master who dared summon me in this form? Who shall offer me their blood in turn?"

Even the bile that churned when he said those last words couldn't quench the unfathomable thirst for blood. It was reprehensible. This was not something that embodied how he lived, yet this image was further tattooed across his pale skin. At this point, among rationales that quarreled within, he wasn't sure which part of him glared at the master anymore… The one who had taken a step back in surprise as two servants jumped to his defense.

Still, Vlad's reddened gaze flew perfectly past the guarding shielder and Celtic lancer queen to bury itself in the pupils of his new master; An answer awaited. His hunger roared. Anger flared like a caged bear newly awoken from hibernation by its new zookeepers. An answer would decide all, but only if this excuse of a master would open his mouth! "Why are you silent!? Did you not summon me in this form, magus!?"

"I-I'm sorry! I summoned you, but I don't have a say in who appears!" Gudao stammered in surprise. The pink-haired demi-servant glanced back for a moment in worry, but a quick bark of her name from Scathach redoubled the inexperience girl's focus. "It's all random! We're just trying to get help! We need all the help we can get!"

"Gudao, calm down!" someone else yelled nearby. Vlad only offered the orange-haired woman by the council a dismissive glance before his thoughts aligned. Beneath the hunger for blood and quarreling ideals, his mind latched onto this master's words.

'He didn't mean to…?' Vlad would have written it off as a vile lie had his reasoning fallen prey to the mad enhancement; It didn't. He could still think and control himself to a fair extent, accursed lusting be damned. Although his mind was so quick to disbelieve, it was just as swift to gauge the answer, just like he carefully chose his actions when leading his armies and people.

This was a weak magus. He was likely a teen, perhaps on the cusp of his twenties at most. Vlad had seen that genuine fear and concern in his eyes many times in his own men before the approaching Ottoman storm; Afterwards, he may have caused it too. The stacked stress present in his eyes was even a bit unsettling. Plus, there was the vagueness of 'saving humanity' that the throne offered him just before his acceptance.

Though conflicted, angry, and torn apart by his own rampant cravings, Vlad swiftly decided to presume his summoning was just this master's ineptitude… for now.

There were still many questions to be had, like why there were two other servants in front of him. Or what exactly this strange place was. Even how he managed to summon him without a typical ritual circle. If nothing else, the search for knowledge would appease his temper in the meantime. Intrigue over this war's circumstances grew alongside his pangs for blood.

Vlad frowned. Suppressing this hungering was going to take a lot of getting used to, whether part of him agreed with it or not.

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

Far above a cozy village, high among sharp cliffs of limestone and shale, the clouds sailed on windy currents. Peering over the mountain tops, the sun's grace still assailed the misty valleys below. Still groggy beside the large inlet, only its market danced with the vibrance of life. With every passing minute, all the blue and verdant greens that wreathed this special valley bloomed with clarity.

In the town far below, much remained unaware of the conflict further above. Even Gudao's team of servants who bartered about the marketplace paid little heed to distant boons up high. Gabrielle's team too, even if they were the ones in battle… if one could call it that. Supply sorties were often so very one sided, but precautions were always taken. Often enough, they proved unnecessary, just like they did today.

"One of my scouts picked up bounded field. Definitely a magus or caster," Fuuma's voice echoed to all of them. "I'm going to have a look myself."

"Don't take all the real fun, please. There's only so much to do with these wasps," Li's voice echoed in turn. The subtle flares of battle, where darting blurs raced along the snow, was wreathed with the shrieks of unnatural enemies; There was little to fear. So much so the master and her bodyguards perched on a scenic outcrop gave only a brief affirmation. There were clearly more pressing concerns.

"Oh, ohhhh~! Gabs, May, check out this one! It's trending!"

"Hm? Oh, that'd look great! You should get it in red!" Medb's interested gasp quickly followed Gabrielle's comment. Reaxed and comfortable, her two closest servants sat beside her with their legs swinging happily over the edge. Below the uniformed master was a thousand meter drop off, but their attention remained on a bunch of magazines they brought with them. Currently, Suzuka had her newest vogue edition shoved in her friend's faces.

"Hmm… If I get it, I'll have it remade to lingerie," Medb noted eagerly as she reopened her Victoria's Secret magazine.

Standing at another edge of the impressive drop-off, with a perfect view of the Fjord, Vlad stood with his refined stake in hand. Though he kept a lookout with Chiron beside him, they were nearly as relaxed. Chiron's bow rested at his side as he kept a calm vigil over their allies further below. Admittedly, Vlad's attention was split between guarding Gabrielle and admiring the sweeping view. The prominent mountains across the way, plus the ones he stood on, resembled a far more chiseled sculpture compared to his home.

Without a doubt, he still preferred the beauty of the Romanian mountainside. Yet, aside from the occasional reminders of… 'threats' further below, it was a peaceful deployment. With no inner cravings to suppress, nor slanderous images to rectify, he let himself fall split: Half tourist, half general. There was little to command, but Gabrielle did assign him as tactical leader in case things went south. In turn, he made Chiron his aide for the mission, just for old time's sake.

"Aw. We finally scared the birds," Chiron noted and grabbed Vlad's attention. Further down, a flock screamed away from the mountains after a servant drew too close. "I feel bad we ruined their morning."

Vlad chuckled. "They may enjoy breakfast in the lower fjord."

With a calm, mere glance, Chrion studied an opponent, drew an arrow, and released. It sallied forth to cut clean through a larger wasp making a beeline towards them over a kilometer away; None other in their group turned to watch the swift dispatch. A moment later, Chiron was enjoying the scenery with Vlad again. "I think we may have two hours before lunch."

"That'd be pleasant. I can enjoy a shower before knitting," Vlad surmised as he took a gentle breath of fresh mountain air. The sun basking his skin felt relieving and radiant. "A shame there were no decent souvenirs to be found."

"For Liz?" the archer asked as the girls squealed over an article. "I guess she's not into dolls? There was a nice stall where I found one for Jackie and Alice."

"She's only interested in ones that are premium idol grade cute," Vlad defined and smirked lightly to his former lieutenant. Chiron let out a brief laugh that lasted longer than his quick draw, which promised another distant giant wasp an early grave. "Her standards rise with every passing day."

"Well she is eager, right? She wants to become a super idol in the world, and I'd say she's well on her way," Chiron offered back. "Her manager ensures that. You too."

"I can't let her clothes get too crazy," he nodded with a gentle sigh. "She has an image to uphold."

And how could Vlad not help her uphold that image? That's exactly what he did too. Like Elizabeth did with prideful singing, he fought against every complaint or smear that defiled who he wanted to be seen as. Even before the Memorial Essence of his proper class had arrived, he fought verbally, and when possible forcefully, to assert his nobility as a proud prince and not a filthy vampire which had no relation to him. All the while, Elizabeth fought all her critics to chase her own ideal image, which was now near universally accepted, just like his was.

He guessed it ran in the family, no matter how close or distant.

Now that they'd won… Now that Vlad found renewed inner peace when the irritating madness fell silenced after the Saint Graph surgery, he'd finally grasped the true peace many other Chaldeans basked in. This deployment would have been serene in the early days, but now it was a profound stillness where his mind worried little but enjoyed much. Their war to save the world had faded to… a job. It was a job, or a chore, at most… And to his gut, akin to a lull between the Ottoman incursions.

So despite his enjoyment of the silence, he had to wonder what lurked unseen. Vlad's smile faded. "I wonder what the future brings. Servants keep coming. This peace may not last forever."

"Which is why it should be enjoyed in full while we hold it," Chiron offered sagely with a confident smile. "I worry too. If I didn't, I'd have to question myself. But whatever comes, we'll be better prepared. We have an army you dreamed of."

Vlad chuckled. "It's not mine, Chiron. I'm part of it, just like you. I'm only content I do not have to wage this battle alone."

"I'd wage whatever war comes just to kill anyone who threatens the wifi!" Suzuka commented out of nowhere, making the others laugh. "I'm totes serious! You don't just fuck with the wifi! That's like the eighth sin!"

Personally, Vlad could think of more personal things to put closer to 'an eighth sin', but he didn't voice any. There was no need. No one prodded him with his irritations anymore. He didn't have a voice in his heart forcing him to acknowledge what never was. Though his wish to rip his name from being associated with Dracula, that was a war he was no longer fighting alone. Here, he had friends and comrades helping him correct others too.

On top of a Norwegian Fjord, wreathed in its morning stillness, Vlad was reminded again how free he'd become.

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

Chiron was right as he usually was; They'd arrived home early. He'd gotten his shower and even a nice biscuit snack. Now, he found himself sitting quietly in Salon de Marie awaiting the promised time: Knitting hour at lunch.

Like many days in meditative stillness, an hour of relaxation passed with drifting ponderings. Vlad thought about everything and nothing. Today it was of harder days. Ones which had passed when he forcibly had to suppress his own urgings; He was more fortunate compared to most other berserkers. Future days too, with all their faults, looked ever promising. Filled with activities and comfortable relaxation, all weaved in between the routine singularity corrections.

By contrast, yesterday revolved around sports and planning for Elizabeth's new costume. Vlad smiled lightly, content with his status quo.

A tiny mewl stole his thoughts again. He didn't even need to look to know what happened on a near daily basis. With his smile cemented, he still casually glanced over the side to his bag of knitting items. With its maw open and moving, it swallowed its willing victim as it attempted to sneak away with one of his yarn balls. Fussing around in its bag to right itself, Marie's little sphinx kitten stared up at the lancer. The lancer's smile turned coy. "You failed today too. What do you have to say, Whiskers?"

With one mewl, the kitten tilted its head cutely. It would work on Boudica in a heartbeat. Medea and Naomi would take a little more finesse. Vlad was a bastion, but he wasn't heartless. "Let's get you out of there."

Though it complained lightly, Vlad lifted the kitten out of his bag and onto the ground. Whiskers' ears perked up when Vlad reached back inside, plucked one of his extra blue yarn balls, for just this purpose, and plopped it onto the ground for the kitten. "Bring it back later please."

After a happy mewl, the kitten rubbed up against his hand. A moment later, it was a celestial blur as it rolled the ball away across the freshly cleaned carpet. Vlad smiled lightly as it mewled past Raikou before she could even pet it. Dressed in another one of her overly tight white qi-paos with matching heels, she smiled at the fleeing kitten, then continued her calm approach. "Good morning, Prince Vlad. I heard it was a smooth sortie?"

"Another pleasant one indeed. I see you're joining us today after all?"

"For a time. I can never pass a chance to play with little Gio~," Raikou smiled with her motherly sparkle. "Have you been here long?"

"I arrived just shy of the hour." He reached over to a side table, plucked his glass of water from its coaster, and took a sip. Raikou claimed the seat and ottoman beside his, and not long after, a blonde saber quickly strolled over in a crisp new salon uniform. D'Eon offered his usual light bow and smile, then folded his hands. Raikou smiled, "A chardonnay please. You may surprise me with the choice."

D'Eon blinked, and though he shared a quick glance with Vlad, he smiled and nodded. "Right away. I pray you're not having a rough morning?"

"Oh, no no. Only parched," she joked back, and a chuckling D'Eon quickly shuffled away. Raikou's smile remained pristine as she rifled through her purse. Vlad remained inquisitive, but quiet. The Japanese legend was quick to notice. "Is something the matter?"

He could sense as much, yes. As a ruler, he'd become very keen understanding what others hid behind formalities, both with delegates and his castle servants. Though he had committed his own brutal acts as punishments, he still cared for his people; Especially those who showed genuine concern to him. He was only a hero among others here, but his instinctual habits of concerning over every unspoken problem lingered. Silence was a fertile breeding ground.

"I was about to ask you, but I feel bold enough to presume." Vlad began as he folded his hands in his lap, though his stare remained at peace. Honestly? It was a safe guess with Raikou. "I don't recall you ever ordering wine before the evening, at least in our presence. Are you worrying over Annie?"

"My daughter? Certain-! No, I…!" Vlad couldn't contain his chuckle as she tripped over her words; Omar fumbled with a few notes at the exact same time. Though a bit embarrassed, the lightly flushing berserker sat down with a sigh. "…It can't be helped. A mother must worry. I know my brother wouldn't let any wrong touch her pretty little head. Rama and Sita too. Karna, Parvati…"

Vlad placed his drink down. "You don't worry for Arjuna too?"

"Hm? Why so? He's a powerful, handsome man. I only worry for those who may cross my brother's path with ill intent," Raikou smiled confidently, but her smile faltered a bit. "Little Annie though… So defenseless without others. Why would a mother worry for my brother more than her?"

"Odds and ends. Possibly getting entangled with a woman, or falling into another heated argument with Karna that often escalates to one of their 'gentle spars'... They're sure to attract attention in their homeland, so any misstep may be loud." Vlad still remembered how mighty and invincible he felt in Romania, where the Yggdmillennia who turned to him felt their eyes glued. For the mighty Indian heroes and deities… he struggled to fathom how subtle they could even try to be doing anything.

Still, Raikou only laughed merrily. "Oh, he'll be fine. He's a very noble man. He'd never think to shame himself in public if there are better solutions."

"And Annie to help keep them in line," the prince added, but it only made Raikou's glowing smile fill with the tiny wrinkles of motherly worry again. Vlad only smiled back in reassurance, as much good as it likely did for the curious berserker.

Minamoto no Yorimitsu. A legendary maddened woman with almost complete control of herself, just like he used to be. For all her rationale and focus, sometimes some wondered if she had mad enhancement at all; Until it showed a side of its ugly face. One of many he'd come to see from her, and how that madness seemed to form into the embodiment of maternal worry and instinct.

There was no doubt: Every time anyone could safely declare her madness acted up, it often had to do with her strong urges to protect those she cared about. One would think Arjuna would have fit snugly under that blanket beside Kintoki and Anishka, yet when she concluded their familial relations, it only seemed like an upgrade to pleasantries. Her bloomed consideration and kindness to Arjuna was still leagues different from the borderline questionable things she did and said for the other two.

Things she never considered wrong or questionable, but only what a mother would do.

Vlad watched as she took out her larger phone, complete with a protective case painted with her clan emblem. "Did you see the video Annie just uploaded?"

Vlad leaned over as she offered the phone across the gap for both to see. D'Eon returned with the glass and bottle just as she hit play. "They were in Jaipur visiting a famous temple."

When the video began, Arjuna was centered on screen with the worn stone of ancient Indian walls and arches framing him. There was a lone monkey perched happily on his shoulder eating some food, but the content archer obviously wasn't concerned with possible crumbs on his pristine white sherwani. Instead, he smiled and looked to the side as a happy yelp echoed from off screen. Anishka giggled behind the screen and quickly panned the camera over.

D'Eon nearly spilled some wine laughing, and even Vlad found himself strangled with mirth at the proverbial flood of monkeys surrounding Rama. To some other tourists blazing away with their cameras, the monkeys might seem to eye him as a giant banana; Anyone who knew Rama was much more aware. Though, it didn't help the excited youth in a blazing red shirt and jeans was excitedly yelling. "Wow! You're all so beautiful and well behaved! Hanuman would be proud! Have you seen him, by the way? We're looking for him!"

"Kintoki showed this to me," Raikou giggled as a few more monkeys clambered onto Rama. "Rama messaged him asking if he could translate. Specifically if any were talking about Hanuman. He really misses his best friend, so I hope we may see him someday. Ancient texts say he's still out there in the Himalayas. Do you think that's true?"

D'Eon placed her filled glass gently down on the table, then shrugged lightly. "Scathach lived for so long hidden from the world. It may be possible."

"Mmm… Maybe we shouldn't tell Rama that. They may take weeks on detour searching the mountains," Raikou smiled, making Vlad chuckle. "Oh! Did you see her video from late last night? They were walking down a street and everyone was bowing in reverence to Parvati. I've never seen Annie so embarrassed! I hope George got plenty of pictures! I need at least fifty for my ninth children's album."

Though she got lost chatting with D'Eon, Vlad quietly watched the videos in quiet pondering; Not over it, but the enthusiastic berserker. Save for the times she got deadly serious, this was how she usually appeared: Either refined, polite, and respectful… or glowing with motherly charm and compassion. Without any doubt, it was genuine. The powerful berserker's expressions and feelings were worn on her sleeve, yet with every odd day she came to spend amongst them, the more Vlad had to wonder.

Was her madness blinding her to her problems, or did she secretly grapple with her own inner demons?

Maybe this was all there truly was, but if he could suppress his former bloodlust well, then so could she. Maybe she hid her problems, but wished not to share nor waste anyone's time. Maybe she indulged in her motherly instincts to distract herself, or only lets those closest know her pains? It could be anything, but if the noose of madness hung, it remained hidden behind her curtain satisfied silence.

Vlad wouldn't have cared so much if his old kingly habits weren't so prominent; His land's health was also his wealth. But he also knew what boundaries must not be crossed among peers. They were far from close friends, so if anything ailed her, all he could ever do was sit in his own silence and wonder if someone would soothe any hidden cries. Hopefully, if demons did lurk, they'd be truly silenced before they painted the air of Chaldea.

The former berserker veiled his intrigue behind a small smile as Raikou giggled again.

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

It wasn't long before other groupmates arrived: Boudica and Elsa. Though the vacation uploads to Thronebook held much of the spotlight, the topics soon began to swirl in calm flow. Raikou hadn't stayed long after their arrival, but with lunch fast approaching, Medea and Naomi would be filling the new gap. That didn't mean they had to wait for them to start knitting.

Across from him, Elsa shuffled through her new knitting bag for a missing needle. Between the uniformed therapist and Boudica was the baby carriage; Vlad could see the little moving teddy bear just over its rim. A moment later, Boudica laid her sweater project onto her lap, smoothed some wrinkles on her white sweater, then gently peered into the carriage. A baby's coos flew through the air after she reached into tickle.

"I thought you were going to sleep, little man~…" Boudica hummed. "Are you hungry? Would you like a little snack?"

"Maybe something early won't hurt. He's been a good boy," Vlad added, but Elsa had already moved to fish through the carriage's storage.

When Elsa pulled out an entire package of baby food, Boudica blinked, then giggled. "I don't think that's a snack, Elsie."

"Only four today! I promise!" she quipped back. Boudica waved off her little joke while Elsa separated one of the packets. While she carefully opened it, Vlad returned to his project: Elizabeth's heart scarf. It'd join the myriad of other knit items and cutesy clothes she'd been collecting for her idol wardrobe. Much of that collections was from him to his niece, but he found he didn't mind the added tasks. It was almost humbling to do such simple work for another.

After a moment of checking the alignment, his hands turned into a swift blur again. Knitting was far from the first hobby he would have taken up. The whole joke with needles, stabbing, and weaving was not lost on him, but it was meditative. Not as pleasantly silent and profound as simply sitting and sipping on fine wine, but a fair distraction from any trivial problems. It helped he was surprisingly good at it.

'I should get to work on that gift for Gio.' He had so many project in mind, but the baby and his mother were already getting floods of presents; He reasoned he could delay his till Christmas. Especially with Boudica dumping gift after gift onto the little child. Not that Vlad could blame her.

As Giovanni sat cradled in Boudica's arms, he stared eagerly to his mother. The baby carriage had been pushed aside so Elsa could feed him proper. With a spoonful of premade baby food, Elsa carefully moved it towards his mouth, careful not to spill a single drop onto his cozy white onesie; Yet another of Boudica's many gifts.

The baby began clapping, and Boudica giggled. "Awww~! You're really happy for food, aren't you? Yes you are! You'll get your yummies, but on one condition~… Please sit still so we don't spill any food on you! Auntie Boudica would be very sad if you stained your cute little clothes~!"

"He won't. (He's my good little angel, aren't you~?)" the mother replied in her native tongue as she held the spoon carefully to her child's mouth. Giovanni opened his mouth and took the treat. As usual, he got some on his cheeks, but Boudica gently wipe it off with her finger as he chewed. "(Are you satisfied?)"

The baby quickly smiled but shook his head, making Boudica lightly ruffle his hair. "Now, now~… Lunch is coming! Auntie Boudica is going to make you a nice little treat, so you want to save a lot of space in your belly for it~! How's that sound? You want yummier food?"

Though the baby looked a bit confused, Gio still smiled and clapped; A fair enough answer. Elsa smiled, "What will it be today, Miss chef?"

"Mmm…" Boudica put her free hand's finger to her lips in playful thought. "I was thinking something with carrots. He hasn't eaten those in a while. Would you like carrots, Gio? It'll give you great eyesight so you can be just like your daddy~!"

"I hope he does. He'd make him very happy…" Elsa smiled sweetly as she carefully resealed the packet, but Vlad's attention remained on Boudica. No matter how many times he's seen it, he couldn't help but marvel at the true strength of this famed queen.

Her name was near synonymous with vengeance, much like Dantes. With every new arrival, there were astonished whispers that she wasn't a berserker or an avenger; She would have been a horrific powerhouse. Instead, she was just another natural fit for their staple knitting group. Though many remembered her for the atrocities she suffered, and her campaign of brutality that followed thereafter, many often forgot she was first a gentle mother.

Boudica of the Iceni: the proud and happy queen who cared for her family and people. A loving mother whose compassion shined so brightly… only for those passionate emotions to be driven onto a gruesome warpath. All because what she loved dearly was tarnished. The lancer knew well the dark lengths one would go to for the sake of protecting or saving what they held dear.

That's why Vlad felt so blessed to bare witness to that once-lost peacetime radiance as it shined once more.

No doubt, she hurt like many. They'd helped her through some trivial breakdowns, but she never stooped low. She often remained silent about it, and vocal about everything else. Humble and tender, she'd often just wave off the compliments just to say how happy she was with this second life. Like with Raikou, Vlad sometimes wondered what unspoken pains truly lay hidden beneath that grand laughter and louder smile.

After all, she was just like him and Medea: Servants of Chaldea who showed the world they were more than what they believed.

"What're you doing!?" …That statement was true for most of Chaldea, albeit in very strange and different ways.

The yell made all eyes in the ballroom snap to the Kitchen doors. Even Dantes on a distant couch lowered his paper to stare strangely. Tamacat's scream soon followed. "Benienma said I needed to perfect this, so I am! It's a difficult enough without you in my ear! Don't you have your own dish to mess up!?"

"What did you just-!?" There was a crash of pans, making Boudica chuckle dryly with exasperation. It was soon joined by laughter from the bar as the French salon servants enjoyed the current sideshow.

Boudica moved to carefully put Giovanni back in his crib. "…Maybe I should go make sure those two aren't-"

"What did I say before!? NOT. IN. MY. KITCHEN."

After blinking, Boudica giggled with Elsa. The rider cradled Giovanni again and rocked him gently. "Or not. Emiya's got it."

"I'm surprised they haven't killed each other yet," Vlad joked lightly. Their fights weren't exactly… dangerous, so they may hold themselves back longer. Or not. Despite that, he could sympathize with them on not exactly… approving of your other summoned form, per se. "I just wish they'd keep it in private. There's more than enough random trifles in Chaldea to add another."

Boudica smiled sympathetically. "That number will only grow. We'll just have to pray we get lucky and we get more reasonable servants."

"One can only hope." Probability was against them though. Even with a smaller roster, servants who found conflict with another was still commonplace. He'd seen it time and time again as one of the first servants in Chaldea. Conflict was inevitable, but the new rules should make it very apparent it wasn't tolerated here… or so they could only hope. Sometimes that forced suppression only made the fires grow unseen within.

Though some may argue, Vlad believe it was better to openly voice your problems early, just like he did; All so Chaldea wasn't pulling thicker roots later.

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

Lunch was enjoyable, albeit the usual: An uneventful staple of normalcy that helped keep Vlad balanced. Among friends he could relate with, and those who treated him respectfully, there was little to worry over save for crumbs and sometimes the occasional Chaldean shenanigans.

From that old pastime, he'd moved on to a newer staple in his daily routine. Though the Recording Studio was seeing even more renovations, the new audio suite had been completed. It wasn't a far departure from how it looked like when it was situated in the studio lobby. It just had an added lockable door and more soundproofing, which went a much longer mile for quality.

Now Robin wouldn't be bothered by anyone when Elizabeth was in her recording sessions… though that never did stop BB from dropping in on occasion. Vlad didn't agree with much of her antics, so all he could hope for was that she wouldn't try their patience further.

Luckily, today's recording session has been promising on that front… so far.

~~I'm gonna live like tomorrow doesn't exist~~
~~Like it doesn't exist~~
~~I'm gonna fly like a bird through the night~~
~~Feel my tears as they dry~~

Make that exceptionally promising. Even Robin seemed extra impressed as he kept his headphones on. "She hit the high notes first try… Look out, Saint of Orleans! You got some mighty competition now!"

"She said she'd been practicing her cover a lot," Vlad commented, and Robin nodded in confirmation. The lancer glanced him over for a second. "You're taking this more seriously too."

"I kinda have to… All this effort would be worthless if I wasn't." The archer looked rather sharper in a jade blazer and a white formal shirt tucked into clean tan slacks; He looked more like a producer in recent months. "Plus I wouldn't hear the end of it. You know how loud she can complain."

"Because she's passionate about her dream," Vlad nodded. But it was for her image too; All of it. He stared through the glance into the recording room, where Elizabeth, even if not needed, stood singing proudly in her costume. This was a perfectly white outfit, designed by him, Medea, and Naomi at her request for something that made her look like a swan. With that imagery in mind, they made a sleek dress with simple frills and golden filigree.

It almost looked like a strapless wedding dress, but the only thing Vlad's niece was marrying was her career.

The seconds passed on as her recording flew forward. Vlad watched with a proud smile as she danced like she was on stage. She smiled and sang with all her heart, so much so when the music finally died, she was even a bit out of breath. With her treasured special microphone in hand, she grinned eagerly as a light in her suite switched off. "Producer! Uncle! How did I do!?"

Robin pressed a button on the console. "We'll have to do a second recording. Just so Nero doesn't throw a fit you, well, got it on the first try."

"Let Nero be jealous! It looks good on her!" Elizabeth beamed, and the two men laughed. "But if you want, I'll do different swings with my voice! We can see which one sounds better!"

"Sounds like a plan. Let me set up the counter again," Robin notified as he began working his console. Vlad briefly watched him work the many switches like an expert, but the lancer then stared back to his niece. With a proud smile, he kept it levelled through the one-way glass. Elizabeth's happy stare met it equally as she swung on her feet.

Staring into proud blue orbs, Vlad could see it all. Fulfillment, happiness, ambition, hopes, and more swirled into the finest wine. There was no hint of hesitation or doubt from her body, heart, or mind. Eager and determined, Elizabeth was on a valiant warpath, but she was far from alone. She knew that.

Accompanying the rest, there was also that satisfying gleam from her happy eyes: Appreciation. She couldn't see him. They said nothing, but there was no need. He knew as she did. Vlad would always be there and supportive for his niece, just like she would for him if he ever needed it. She often expressed separating his name from Dracula's didn't feel like enough, but he insisted it was. Watching her building her own chosen image secretly made the difference.

...Which was uniquely ironic considering how 'well' she got along with his other niece: The embodiment of dominating, posh elegance.

To this day, the two still bickered every chance they got. No doubt, Vlad knew it was inevitable since they desired different images. His constant attempts to appease them was futile, but one day he hoped they'd at least see how similar they were; What made him proud of both of them. Each one chased their own ideal image fervently, and it really did feel like a family instinct.

Now that he thought about it, 'I should check up on Carmilla before dinner.'

It wasn't a necessity, like checking up on the little lancer. Carmilla found her niche among other high-class fashionistas and even a Shinsengumi suitor. Like Elizabeth, she was making headway on her new path as a fashion consultant; Aristocratic specialty, of course. That didn't mean he wasn't going to keep assisting both in any simple way. Seeing them succeed was one of the finest wines he could taste.

As the music came back on, Vlad gave Elizabeth another silent, approving nod from behind the one-way mirror. She beamed back a moment later.

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

The extra recordings took hours more, then after, he went to see what Carmilla was up to. Or he would have until he found where she was. Whatever she was discussing with Medea and Naomi was 'top secret', or so she insisted. He'd left the Stitch Witches but moments after; His timing was simply off, but he got his glimpse of her growing ambitions. A simple sip was enough to remain content.

With nothing else on his mind, he'd decided on a boardwalk stroll before dinner. He would have spent some time talking with Frankenstein, but he didn't want to disturb her little date with Anton amid the flower garden. He'd passed a fatigued-looking Tesla feeding some birds with Semiramis, Tamacat giving Passionlip some cooking lessons by the grills, and Ishtar sunbathing with Mata Hari. He'd seen nearly all the routine sights, so only the real curiosities drew his gaze.

A lone Russian noble earned his approach; Wrapped in warm layers of a white sweater and flowing teal skirt, she looked terribly overdressed for the resort. Clutching her strange doll to her chest, she stared out at the ocean, just like Skyler often did. Alone, still, and quiet, she finally noticed his approach and stared blankly. He offered a calm nod and smile as he came to a stop. "Enjoying the weather, Miss Romanova?"

"Mmm." It was a hushed, simple sound from her lips. There wasn't even a nod to accompany it, leaving him wondering what she meant. Her voice remained quiet. "Are you enjoying your afternoon?"

"How could I not? It's nice and sunny," Vlad offered as he gazed to the clear skies. In his berserker form, these days were as equally pleasant as irritating. Now he could enjoy it freely like his past life, and was more than glad to leave any shred of that forced mindset behind. "Is it not too warm for you?"

"I'm comfortable." Again, it was barely above a whisper, but she gave a nod this time and squeezed her strange doll. Her usual blank expression made him wonder, but it was clear he wasn't going to get very far talking with her; Not many did. The shy caster often kept to herself, and limited her speech to the bare necessities.

That was fine. He could respect that. With a nod, he continued his stroll. "Then may you have a pleasant evening."

"Thank you." Another quiet reply, then she turned back to the railing. Vlad offered her one final glance, but she was already lost in the clouds again.

Not all servants warmed up to Chaldea quickly, but he wondered if this was how she was always like… It was tragic to think about. A girl as quiet and innocent as her becoming the merciless target of a mass revolution. His steeled heart mourned for a fellow noble, but there were others likely better suited to helping her through any lingering pain.

"We're here, Ana! Val had long project!" Others like her fellow Russians. Vlad continued his stroll, but quietly glanced back to see the uniformed Sergei and Delaqua approaching from the cove. The Czar turned to them quietly, and Vlad watched a serene smile flow onto her face. There it is. A glimpse at the true woman within, reserved only for those closest.

Delaqua smiled as she held a board game in her hands. "Do you want to play in the cafeteria, or should we pull up some chairs on the bea-"

"Cafeteria!" Anastasia's decision was so quick and adamant, it made Vlad fully snap back to stare. Did that surprisingly assertive tone really just come from the quie- "It's hot! Too damn hot!"

"You dress too warm!" Sergei laughed and scratched his head. "We know you like salon better. We could have met there."

"Dinner is soon so we'll save walking time and play here… In the shade!"

Delaqua and Sergei laughed as Anastasia began dragging the supervisor by the wrist towards the cabana's shade. Though the sight of Passionlip trying very carefully to place meat on the grills was an enthralling sight, Vlad remained locked on the other noble. He thought she was sweet and shy. Yet, to those she warmed to, much more came to light. He let out a chuckle and continued his stroll.

'…What an adorable silence.' A shyness that hid a lively young girl just beneath the surface.

"Interesting, hm? That such a girl exists beneath that veil of innocence." That voice made Vlad slow down. He wasn't paying him much attention at first, but Moriarty had suddenly closed his book on a nearby bench; Apparently he wasn't completely immersed in it. With the jacket of his sharp, gray business suit folded neatly beside him, the archer turned a calm glance to the lancer. He even smiled politely. "Quite a strange sight, but I'm sure you've glimpsed more in your tenure."

"Fair to say, yes," Vlad replied. He did it a bit formally, but it was out of a sudden impulse of natural defense. Around Moriarty, one couldn't help but feel the dastardly man was plotting something with every move. It was like he was a chess opponent you never knew you had. Still, regal and noble, Vlad was far from succumbing to suspicious and foreboding auras. He wasn't above questioning it though. "Is there a reason you were secretly observing her?"

"We'll call it an intellectual's habit. I like observing and understanding, you see," Moriarty commented as he placed his novel onto his lap. "Anastasia was very quiet, but I could sense there was more to her than that. Something she was hiding, but I wasn't expecting that. Truly a turn. It reminds me of…"

He trailed off, and Vlad fell confused. "Of…?"

"Ah, I digress before my tangent," Moriarty discarded, but then smiled again. It was polite, yet unreadable. Perfectly structured. It made Vlad wonder if his words were honeyed lies, or actual truth; Even what remained unspoken may be a lie. The stillness of this man was unnerving with every sentence… and he easily read that feeling. "You need not be so stiff and condemning of me, Prince Vlad. We've had a few conversations before. I scheme nothing."

"It's impossible to believe that," he replied instantly, but calmly.

Moriarty let out a well-mannered laugh. "True! For me not to plan? It's in my blood… But I insist. I scheme nothing. If I am to reveal my hand, I pray you understand I'd just be interested in some companions. While I'm used to it, humans are social creatures, and I'd like true close companions and not just…"

The professor trailed off, but Vlad knew exactly who he was talking about; Holmes often did keep a very close eye on his rival. Still, of all the people to ask… "Is there a reason you consider my presence?"

"To be blunt? Because we have something in common not many do in Chaldea," he offered enticingly, but Vlad wasn't about to take the bait. He knew where this was going. An evil genius talking with a former leader who did morally questionable acts. At worst, he may even make a Dracula comparison… how there were both fictional enemies that were nigh-impossible to stop. The lancer would never entertain such a damned notion.

…However, Vlad also didn't see the next line coming. At all. "There's too many youngsters here. We oldies can only take so much, no?"

Vlad broke his noble grace to gawk. "I beg your pardon!?"

"Oh, don't play coy," Moriarty chuckled. "We're not getting any younger! Among the masses of teens and twenty-somethings, we're old. Especially me! Why, how many times did I throw my back in Shinjuku making sure Gabby didn't kill herself? If I was younger, it would've been far easier, but the calculations I had to do to manage my energy?"

Vlad only briefly listened to his growing rant. In truth, he was… floored. This was definitely not the similarity he was expecting and… truth be told, he wasn't quite sure how to take it. It was leagues better than being called Dracula, but being pointed out how old he was compared to most in Chaldea was…

…The prince cringed, but not visibly. Now that he thought about it, he was pretty old. He died in his mid-forties, and wound up being summoned as that. Even compared to his closest caster friend Medea, who was a mature woman, he still had age over her. It was uncomfortable to think about, and never truly raised before, but… No. No, he was not starting that modern 'midlife crisis' just thinking about this.

Instead, he tuned back into Moriarty's rant… which was still going. "And not only does he never leave me alone, he's got that youthful body of his while I drew this card! Why do I always get second pick with… Ahem… I apologize. That was an unsightly digression. But my point stands. I think us mature gentlemen have a lot we could talk about. Shakespeare wholly agreed."

Although Vlad wasn't exactly sure how productive or interesting it would be to spend time with both Moriarty and Shakespeare… it also wasn't the strangest proposal he'd heard in Chaldea. There were worse ones, for certain, and though he'd have to keep his wits about them with two crazy schemers, it would just be a matter of reading the silence between the lines.

Though there was his image to consider. New employees may see two fictitious villains together with an author and misconstrued it for something else. Others might think he's being manipulated. These were obviously stretches; He was a heroic prince, and not easily bent to anyone's will. That didn't mean he wasn't going to consider the consequences for how other perceive him, no matter how much of a stretch. After all... wasn't him being related to Dracula a horribly accepted stretch?

At the very least, this development was something new to think about. "...Perhaps. I'll need some time to consider the merits of your proposal."

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

The smoke from the grills was extra thick today. It was likely because Tamacat actually dared to try and teach Gawain to cook, but… she was going to learn soon enough. It was enough concern to have Boudica accompany Elsa to get some appetizers. That was a minute ago, just after his two oldest and favorite companions had arrived at their chosen cluster of beach loungers. And, as usual, the tailoring pair quickly grew lively.

"Naomi! It's been weeks!"

"I can't help it! I'm so scared!" Though Medea sighed, she chuckled. Vlad laughed. The caster crossed her arms playfully over her sapphire-colored chiton and quirked an eyebrow at her best friend. All Naomi could do in return was stiffly hold Giovanni in her arms as he squirmed in her arms. Elsa stared with begging eyes. "…Can you watch him?"

Medea failed to hold back her little laugh, and her expression collapsed. "Boudica and Elsa said you should watch him."

"They did it on purpose! They know I'm scared with babie- Oh! No, no, no! Don't squirm out! Ah!" Medea was covering her face to stifle her laughter while Giovanni tried to crawl out onto Naomi's lap in favor of the sandy beach. "Gio! Please stop! You might fall!"

"I think he's doing it on purpose too. Smart little baby," Vlad commented. He smirked lightly as Naomi erratically tried to wrangle the baby back into a cradled hold. It took far longer than it should have, but once done, she breathed with relief. Vlad smiled. "I worry for your future children."

"A mother's touch is supposed to be natural," Medea sighed, and Naomi quickly pouted.

"Stop teasing me!" The two servants laughed, but Naomi soon chuckled with them. She would never actually take offense. Vlad could always appreciate how personal and comfortable they could be with nearly everything. They were a strange family of sorts; He would have been just as crushed if they lost Naomi months ago. It also never ceased to impress him how being with them helped Naomi deal with other servants better.

…But not babies. She stiffened when Giovanni attempted to move again, only to earn a groan of disappointment. As she tried readjusting him, his little complaints grew louder. "Oh no! No, please don't cry! I'm just trying to care for you!"

Giovanni's complaining grew, and by now he was looking seriously unhappy. While Medea clearly pondered intervening, Vlad only watched Naomi's panic grow with mild amusement. "Do you need something? Do you want your mommy or? Oh ohhhh… Elsa, Boudica where are you!?"

"I ain't them, but I could be the reinforcements?" The three turned calmly to see the former Vigil Master walking across the sand from the nearby boardwalk stairs. His uniform was as sharp as ever, but his stare was loose with baffled wonder. After waving to Vlad and Medea, he stood next to the terribly stiff and stressed Naomi. She could only chuckle dryly as the baby teetered on the edge of crying. The sergeant blinked, "You doing alright there, Naomi?"

"I need help…" she whimpered, making Vlad and Medea burst into laughter. Instead, Skyler smiled lightly, stared at the uncomfortable baby, and shrugged. For a moment, Naomi looked defeated. Then Skyler slowly reached down and gestured for her to pass him. Medea and Vlad quickly sobered up to stare in growing bafflement. Naomi stared conflicted. "What are you…?"

"Reckon Elsa wouldn't mind if I gave it a try?" As if she was getting rid of a delicate bomb, Naomi's instincts acted first. She gently offered the baby, and Skyler softly took the squirming bundle into his arms. Surprisingly, he was swift but careful to let the baby sit comfortably cradled in his arms. Soon after, he gently swayed, dampening the baby's former cries into content coos. "There, there, partner. Upsie daisy."

Naomi stared with a mix of disbelief, relief… and bruised pride. Medea stifled her giggle as Skyler swiftly calmed the once rising tide. He nearly sang out the next words, "Everything's gonna be alright~…"

"You're good with babies…!?" Naomi finally mouthed as Giovanni cooed happily to his quiet mutterings. "You never told us that!"

"Aw geeez. I didn't think it was worth mentioning," he countered with a gentle shrug. "I never got the chance to do much of it anyhow, but Momma always said to treat 'em right."

"Every week you find a new way to surprise me…" Medea mused, but still smiled at her best friend's stung expression. However, hesitation showed in the next line. "Did you learn to do it with…?"

"I've held a bunch of family babies. Jake was just the last," he responded calmly. No one said anything further than that; Skyler's troubled past was best left alone much like many others. Vlad wouldn't enjoy others curiously poking at things forced upon happened to him, so it was only right to return that favor; Medea would no doubt completely agree.

"Well… You'll make a good father someday," Naomi offered with a smile, which he returned with a little shrug.

"Hope so. That girl will suuure be blessed to have me," he finally smirked lightly, and she rolled her eyes with her own. He turned to the two returning women, but could only nod with his arms full. "Good evening. I hope I'm not being rude holding Gio without asking?"

"Oh, hey Skyler! Naomi gave up?" At Boudica's quick reply made the tailor fume up again. A chorus of laughter followed while Skyler gently returned the happy baby back into his mother's arms. Boudica sat down and placed the prepared bowl of baby food onto a table. "So did you come to join us today? Zoning out while we talk to stare at the sea?"

"Funny. I was going just that over yonder 'til I saw Naomi struggling with Gio." By now, Naomi was a grumbling mess, but Boudica hugged her in apologetic comfort.

Elsa carefully laid her baby back into his carriage. "So will you be joining us?"

He thought for only a moment, then shook his head. "I'll have to pass today too. Sorry. Like Boudica said. I'd just zone out into that wild blue again."

"Something has been troubling you lately," Vlad observed, then realized he actually mumbled the words out loud.

After a noticeable pause, Skyler only stared back calmly and shrugged. "I had too much to think about, I guess."

"And he's taking an awfully long time to do it." His former servant's arrival and grated comment were heralded by the chipper barks of her white dog. Cavall II paid only minor sniffing praise to the operator before moving on to the servants, then the baby carriage. Though its happy wagging tail and an equally curious baby magnetized the eyes, the uniformed saber stole all attention with rather serious strides. The annoyed glint in her eye sure didn't help. "You need to stop dragging this on."

The stern saber stopped before the sergeant. Her eyes could pierce reinforced steel, but Skyler didn't flinch. With his own irritated stare, he only glanced to the others, then hushed his voice. "Can we talk about this later?"

"Again? Talk again?" Artesia nearly snapped. She took a step forward, and Vlad could feel the aggravation roll off her like waves. Her indomitable, forceful will coated the area, making the baby squirm in growing discomfort. With his first glimpses of the quiet, collected, and powerful King Arthur, he may have guessed her regal silence could hide such forceful prominence. However, he was a ruler himself, and thus knew well that unreadable doors could swing open should they need be.

When a royal broke their elegant stillness, it made peasants cower in anticipation; Skyler was no peasant. With a growing glower, he glanced to the others again, then motioned to the side. "Then let's have a chat at the railing. I'm not inconveniencing them with this."

Artesia didn't budge. "Yet you inconvenience their Director by dragging your feet for an answer."

"She made it clear there was no deadline! And I have my ans-!" Skyler forcefully cut himself off. His crossed expression faded to an apologetic but agitated mask, which he passed to Vlad's silent, awkwardly watching group. The operator crossed his arms and began walking. "I'm not ruining lunch. They just want to relax. I just want to relax."

"You can't figure out what you want," Artesia hammered home. That made him stop, turn to her with a renewed glare, and fume silently. She crossed her arms, and suddenly the beach felt that much hotter. The alter scoffed. "I thought you were done running away."

"I'm not running! I just want to retire... Again. Haven't I earned that already?"

The pause was terribly uncomfortable. Any second now, Vlad was expecting an awkward cough to clear the air; None came. Only the puppy's gentle breaths and wagging tail tried to soothe the flames as his curiosity whispered for him to learn of this vague grievance. But he had no place. This sounded private…

"Are you talking about what I think you are?" …Apparently not private enough to stop Medea from speaking up. Artesia glanced to the caster, who only stared to Skyler stoically. With a contemplative but confident glint, she glanced to the others in consideration; What was his friend privy to?

"…And what would that be?" Skyler's tone was a bit too forceful, but Medea brushed it off. For Vlad, it even lost some impact with that barely notable hitch of wariness.

"You've often said how you would love a slower life... Leave your head in those clouds that earned you that nickname," Medea began calmly. "You and Sergei also said that the only reason you joined the Vigil was because of those randomly appearing command seals. You never had a choice. You were there because they needed you, otherwise you would have been free to remain a civilian… But that obligation is gone. You're still here, even after you said you would love to leave the military. The Vigil is keeping you with Vanguard despite the lost seals. It had something to do with Da Vinci's meeting the day after, didn't it?"

Though she often kept to herself when not around her friends, Medea's calm stares and silence must never be confused with obliviousness. Sure she may not care entirely about everything, but she was paranoid. She'd keep every tidbit of information and try to draw lines to safeguard herself and those she cared about. Acute, careful, concerned, and observant, it never surprised Vlad she could connect meager dots and create a picture.

…And by the growing nervousness in Skyler's eyes, her precision was proved again. As Naomi's worried glance landed on him, Artesia let out a tiny smirk. "…You really are smart. Yes. That has everything to do with it, but you'd think he would have decided by now. How many hours have you spent glimpsing through old singularity recordings? How many hours did you spend with the council watching that egotistical AI's copy of this past one?"

"Watching the last one…? That settles it," Medea concluded as Boudica glanced to her in confusion. Levelling a steady gaze at Skyler, she lowered her voice a little more. "Is this a secret which others shouldn't know about?"

"…Da Vinci never said I had to keep it quiet," he admitted after a fair pause. Uncomfortable and irritated, he glowered off to the gently lapping waves. The others waited quietly, and Vlad wondered if Artesia would pop the balloon of contemplation first. Seconds later, it was the sergeant who did after he approached and hushed his voice. "…Please keep this down. But besides Gio, I was the only other one to test positive for one hundred percent Leyshift compatibility."

"You're being considered as a master?" Naomi whispered as surprise swept Boudica and Vlad into its arms.

"They said I can, but that doesn't mean I should." His quick retort surprised Vlad more. To become a master of servants was a privilege mages would clamber and kill each other for; Skyler looked genuinely hesitant. Confused. Even reluctant; There wasn't a hint of enthusiasm from the former master. "She said they would like more masters, and that a candidate Chaldeans knew would be the preferable option."

"But you know how he feels. Obligation to do the right thing. Desire to do what he wants with his life," Artesia listed, and though her voice was rough, Vlad caught an impossible glint of sympathy, likely earned from knowing the saber for years. "His answer is he doesn't know. Which isn't an answer."

"I need time to think on this."

"And giving you time to think just means you split yourself further. I know you," the saber pointed out. Skyler gazed around, but he saw no more awkward stares. Just contemplative ones. Even Elsa's eyes studied him, likely with keen expertise of what he might be thinking. His own gaze lingered on Naomi, whose stare was supportive. Still, he remained silent... A troubled, convoluted stillness that had been secretly strangling him, which was now freely aired for a few others.

Skyler frowned. "Gudao, Gabby, Annie... Chaldea needs masters like them. What do I even bring to the table? I'm just a former army ranger without a hint of magical potential."

"You bring more than you think," Artesia defended, but then shook her head. "But this is still your choice. You know how I feel though. I would like my partner back. I'd trust your word far over the others'."

With a tired glance, he shrugged. "You would… but how many Chaldean servants can say the same?"

Honestly? After getting to know Skyler for over a month, he seemed like an above average soldier with a strong sense of comradery and courtesy. But he was also right: Vlad wasn't quite sure if he would make a good master.

Many servants arrived not knowing much about Gudao, but others vouched for him in some way. It became the same for Gabrielle, then Anishka. The veteran servants' word and all the singularities they'd dealt with carried a lot of weight which eased the minds of many new arrivals; Those three were veterans of the Chaldean Grand Order.

Skyler only had Artesia to vouch for him.

It was clear by the operator's expression: He was wholly split. Glancing around, Vlad could see the others here were supportive, but equally uncertain. Yet, Chaldea was also made keenly aware that accidents can happen. They could have lost all three days ago; Luck may not favor them next time. A new master could help, but that raised a problem never touched before.

How long may it take for Chaldea to accept a master who had only recently been based here?

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

Though they'd expressed their genuine uncertainty, the knitting servants had given their support if Skyler chose to accept. Boudica and Naomi offered the most support, though the sergeant's thoughts obviously wouldn't be swayed in minutes; Neither theirs. Vlad doubted he'd decide anytime soon, but there wasn't an urgent rush. Chaldea's upgraded defenses were evidently higher on the priority list for the council for good reason.

The conversation swayed from there so as not to dull dinner nor muddy the operator's mind. Between chatting about lighter current events, seeing some of the Hindu group's new uploads, and Cavall II running off to the woods with a few sticks of barbecue… plus a frustrated Artesia giving chase… dinner was as average as Vlad could have expected. Mundane, rather calm, and ordinary: Just the way he liked it.

On his simple stroll along the boardwalk to enjoy the evening air, he wasn't surprised to find many groups or pairs still loitering about. Some played card games, others indulged in conversation, and a few enjoyed the mellow evening as he did. The sun's grace had already faded from the edge of fluffy clouds, but some faces still glowed with enthusiasm. Walking past, he gave a brief glance towards the cafeteria.

Near the cheering Celt group, plus Bazett and Suzuka, who enjoyed a round of drinking games, Mordred, Astolfo, Kairi, and Flat were playing a game of poker. The rowdy saber's expression gave her away fairly well, but not more than Flat's terrible excuse of a poker face. Astolfo didn't fair much better, but the Vigil magus, with his sunglasses up and leather jacket taught, was a flawless statue.

Vlad never did get to see much of that master in their last war, but seeing glimpses of him now only made him wonder how he had a saint's patience to deal with Mordred's antics. Jekyll too, for certain. The knights. Her father… Oh who was he fooling? Patience was a necessity when dealing with Mordred.

"Enjoying the breeze?" The lancer's attention was snagged by the familiar, firm tone of a Germanic legend. After pausing and turning calmly to the railing, he nodded to Siegfried and Chiron. With hands folded behind his back, Chiron glowed like a teacher; His bright pink polo and khakis sketched him brighter. The saber leaned back calmly on the rail, almost like he was modelling his simple, open-front silver button up and black slacks.

"Another calm night in paradise," the lancer commented back as he briefly studied their companions. Not so curiously, they were joined by two of the Clock Tower mages. While most were content to stick in their own little group, one emerald suit was sometimes found among servants. More so than even Vernier, Gordolf, as noble as even in his ivory uniform, tended to drift around servants; Triply so if it was Siegfried.

And, thankfully, this prestigious Clock Tower magus had shown his apple fell further from the family tree.

After scratching his mustache lightly, Gordolf smiled politely and nodded in greeting. Vlad returned it, but before anyone could break the pause, a rather screechy explosion echoed through the air. Gordolf tensed up for a moment, and Vlad could have chuckled at the quick pang of panicky fear in his eyes as he glanced around. However, he quickly calmed down as Vernier, Siegfried, and Chiron glanced to the source nonchalantly.

Even Vlad merely blinked as he glanced down the boardwalk, where a howling Nobunaga and Mephistopheles came speeding past in a blur. Only a few in the cafeteria passed a glance as Quetzalcoatl rocketed after them, covered in sweat and yelling so fast in Spanish no one could understand. The blurs disappeared into Club Cove, and not a moment later, it was relaxation as usual.

Gordolf, calmed after the initial surprise, glanced to Siegfried as he slowly pulled a radio out from his belt pocket. It echoed with Okita's voice before he could press a butted. "It was one of Nobu's bombs wasn't it?"

"I'm on it. Give me a sec, but I might need assistance with Quetz. She's screaming something about a pinata?" There was more radio chatter after Benkei's response, but Siegfried was already placing the radio back on his leather belt.

After a few more radio blips, Chiron piped up. "Will Okita be strict with her punishment?"

Siegfried smiled lightly and shrugged. "If Nobunaga doesn't bribe her. I fear corruption runs deep."

The servants laughed lightly, and Gordolf joined in even if he was clearly out of the loop. Vernier cracked a smile, but that was about it. While Vlad was hardly sympathetic to Clock Tower mages, he didn't envy Vernier's fate. That combat magus did so much to earn his place as the lead magus on the Clock Tower investigation team, and still does all he could to keep his more abrasive colleagues in line… And his reward was to become a forced secretary to the new Clock Tower lead, Gordolf.

Vlad did have to wonder what else lay beneath that mixed expression of resignation and acceptance.

"Would you care to join us for some conversation?" Siegfried offered.

Though he was planning on just wandering aimlessly, he wasn't opposed to a conversation to shake things up. It would be far from the first he'd spent with two of his most respected former lieutenants. Vlad nodded. "For a time, I may. Were you discussing anything enthralling?"

"Embarrassing Gordolf with stories of his father in our war," Chiron joked, but it quickly had its effect. Gordolf sputtered with the glass of wine he was attempting to take a sip from; He managed to spill some, but not on his uniform. He quickly held out the glass to Vernier. After a quick glance of annoyance, unseen by the higher ranked magus, the bearded magus took the glass and walked off, likely for a refill. Chiron smiled apologetically. "I'm sorry. I didn't think I'd get that sort of reaction."

"It's fine, fine… I just didn't think my father's temper could make him…" Gordolf breathed out deeply, then shook his head. "Never mind. Father lived through that war where nearly all others died. That's what impresses me most."

There was a small pause, where everyone considered where to continue. Gordolf chose a route, but it probably wasn't the best. "Prince Vlad… It was you who was present in that war, correct? Not the Vigil's version?"

Vlad's calm demeanor soured, and Gordolf was instantly reeling with an apologetic expression. "W-Wait! No! I didn't mean offense or infer you were Dracula or…!"

"Gordolf, you're overreacting," Siegfried offered with a tiny smile. The saber and lancer glanced to each other, and Siegfried read him like a book. "He just doesn't like talking about that other Vlad either. They're not on the best terms."

"Correct," Vlad offered with a calm nod. If he was the princely hero, then that other him was a blood-crazed crusading warrior. Perhaps the Vigil's Vlad was the manifestation of his worst tendencies in history made darker by Ottoman slander. Whatever the case, that other him relished his own madness and embraced who he was; The Chaldean couldn't see eye to eye with him on nearly anything… so it was best he was just never mentioned.

"My apologies," Gordolf corrected himself as he fidgeted with his cuffs. Vlad merely waved it off; He could have made a far worse comment, which was something the lancer expected from his father. Gordolf? It seemed he rolled further from the tree in a good way.

"Think nothing of it. I'm sure you've got a lot on your mind with all that reports you still have to go through," Vlad joked with a small smile. To his satisfaction, Gordolf's face grew dimmer again.

"The piles never end," Vernier commented as he returned with Gordolf's glass. "I envy Miss Red. She has nothing to do with any of this."

"She gets to do the fun parts only," Gordolf dared to grumble before taking a sip of his wine. Nearly all of the Clock Tower team were checking the records and monitoring Leyshift operation legality. Touko only had to do the latter, and was essentially more of a freelance magus in residence. Albeit a very powerful one. "I wish I could have brought my homunculi. I've never had so many paper cuts before!"

"Your father survived a grail war. You'll survive papers," Chiron chuckled, but Gordolf only sighed again.

However satisfying conversing with these two mages often was, it never could settle Vlad's other reservations. He tossed a glance to a distant table, where two of the lesser known investigation members chatted quietly. They often kept to themselves, but have been making a few more abrasive comments as of late. Vlad supposed it was only a matter of time before it happened.

Mages were never trustworthy. Despite his begrudging acceptance of what transpired in his war, his stronger doubt over mages grew deeper. Few have proven themselves exceptions; The ever-silent members of this team did the opposite. If he were in control of Chaldea, he'd have them under extreme guard or evicted. But he wasn't, and all he could do was keep his own eye out and hope arrogance didn't fertilize rampant ideas.

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

On his way back to his room, Vlad stopped along the silent windowed hallway. The blizzard had partially lifted, and the snowflakes danced for him like entertainers. A robot hovered past and broke the silence, but the gentle hum were hardly waves across a still pond. His breathing was still louder; His thoughts more so. His footsteps chimed with his heartbeat as he continued his slow return to his bed.

The hallway was long empty an hour before midnight. Many times, he'd walked these quiet halls, yet the mood was colored different with every day. Sometimes festive joy or sudden mirth ringed as happy jogging or jubilant cheer. Sometimes it was suffocating with dread and anticipation for what newly arrived. Other days was anxiety. Before the final battle months ago, it was a mix of everything.

Today it was a bit chilly with boring monotony. He'd prefer this over many masks.

After all, a profound silence could promise anything, so it was best never taken for granted.