A/N: Merry Christmas, have some cheer with Demon Slayer...cause that's not dreary or anything!

NetherOrbit: For you, I give a Lisbeth. Cause that's not violating human rights...
Den3424: For you, I give...uh, you like cats...right?
Doctor: For you, I give a pug puppy. Good luck with diabolical plans with this big eyed bundle of love.

Remember guys, a poll still stands. Vote now, cause it's gonna be replaced soon!

Enjoy!

December 15th, 2022

Leafa's brief shouts rippled throughout the room, replied only with dull thumps, a stuffed test dummy bobbing from a solid strike. Her serrated [Wakizashi] firmly dug half blade through cloth and hay, stopping only upon biting its wooden limbs. Forced to press a shoe against her target, Leafa pried it off with a sharp tug.

"Darn," Leafa frowned, "got stuck again."

Watching from nearby, Leopon observed as Wick wrote the results.

"Starting to think teeth on a [Katana] is a bad idea," Wick rubbed his temple, "loses its smoothness."

"Yea," Leafa nodded, "makes it a hacking kind of tool, but [Katanas] aren't made that way."

"I see," Wick shuddered, "gonna have to try our next model...cause this doesn't pass."

"It looks cool though," Leopon took it, "why not display it?"

"But what if someone decides to buy it?" Leafa said, "I'd feel bad if they took it, thinking it'd work."

"We um," Wick rolled his brush, "could tell them it's aesthetic only, couldn't we?"

"Long as they hear that," Leopon tucked it away, "hopefully they'll heed it."

Putting down his paint supplies, Wick deployed his next design. Six feet, tip-less, and taper-less, Wick's [Siege Blade] did little to impress Leopon.

It's a rectangle with edges, like something someone could make in a big mold for cheap.

Grabbing its handle, Leafa's breath sharpened, hauling its three inch wide blade.

"Man," Leafa groaned, "how am I supposed to feint with this?"

"Wasn't the goal," Wick shrugged, "it's ugly I know, but it's supposed to be a [Siege Blade] for beginners. For those unsure of learning its art."

"I don't see how it could be called an art," Leafa shouldered roughly, "you can't [Parry], or change direction mid-swing. You might as well be swinging a big hammer."

"I guess you're right," Wick bowed his head, "plus note, it's really easy to repair, and has some serious chopping power."

"I'll definitely pass on this," Leafa set it down, "sorry, Wick."

"You're a [Strength] main though," Leopon tilted her head, "wouldn't this fit you?"

"Erm," Leafa flustered, "I'm strong, but not a brute."

Wick hid a slight smile, glancing for a moment to her chest and arms.

"Sorry," Leopon blushed, "I'll turn it in to Lis, well...after she comes back."

"Alright."

Drawing her old [Katana], Leafa practiced slowly, slicing as smooth and straight as possible.

"You noticing the way Asuna's walking?" Wick said to Leopon, "she's like a wind-up toy."

"I know," Leopon sighed, "first yesterday...then yesterday night, what can we say?"

"Dunno," Wick looked over his shoulder, "sorry's all that can be said it seems."

Leopon continued watching her as Wick drew new concepts, swaying her hips in sync with Leafa's swings. A quick glance brought a smile on Leafa's face.

"Wanna practice?"

"Oh uh sure," Leopon rose, readying [Cross Shield] and [Longsword].

A [Training Mode] duel was initiated, with neither side making harsh advances. Soft exchanges were made, both participants steady with their motions.

"And counter," Leafa's blade poked a stomach.

"Unless," Leopon slid her shield inward, diverting it.

Instead of resisting, Leafa simply stepped back, letting Leopon exert herself. Dancing slowly, both fighters traded between cuts, feints, pokes, or wrestles. Wick eyed them both cautiously, the flexing of hips, legs, and chests burning the back of his eyes.

So many beautiful girls in one place, but how do I approach any of them?

While no damage was done to their HP, each successful hit resulted in a bruise, their [Stamina] reduced cumulatively. Leopon's sword neared Leafa's chest, only to be deflected, slid down her [Katana's] spine.

[+0.05% exp]

Having blocked a strike to a vital location, a paltry reward was granted. While Leopon's steely eyes focused on her opponent's weapon, her mind drew away.

Dad's been looking sad lately, pacing constantly since yesterday. He doesn't tell me why, which means it must be something big. Maybe if I got his request done he'd feel better, though I still don't know what to think. It's attractive to me, but it isn't about me.

"Leafa?" Leopon looked her in the eyes, "could I ask you something?"

"Sure," Leafa smiled, "long as it's not um, about groping. Lis' already called me Mammoth Boob."

"Oh no," Leopon giggled, "this's just between friends."

She glanced behind herself briefly before whispering, "I think they're both in on it, Yuuki and Lis."

"Only for you," Leopon giggled, "otherwise they're competing."

While they spoke, Wick listened carefully.

"If your family asked you to do something big, knowing it'd hurt a friend, would you do it?"

"Yes," Leafa said without pause, "they know best."

"Even if it hurt your friend deeply?" Leopon grimaced.

"If the two are that opposed, are they really your friend?"

"I see," she nodded with a tense expression, "thanks."

While they continued exchanging practice blows, Leafa was eventually called up by Asuna to haul materials. Ending their duel, both bowed before continuing business, Leopon practicing with only Wick and the training dummy as company. Swinging away, her blue-grey eyes drifted to him.

"Wick?" Leopon turned, "mind if I ask you?"

"It uh depends," Wick penciled away, "I know family's um important, but sometimes they...can make poor decisions. I'd have to know more."

"See, my family wants me to get with this guy...my friend likes him...probably a lot?"

"Ooh," Wick lowered his paintbrush, "that's a uh, tough call. I will say this, I'm happy you have family here. Have you tried talking to your friend?"

"Not yet," Leopon tucked her lip, "I don't know how to bring it up. It's hard, cause I care about her."

"I get what you mean," Wick checked his drawing, "I have trouble talking about things all the time."

"Like what?"

"Uh," Wick looked back for a second, "oh where to start...it's just that uh, Leafa is...well she's a jock."

"So?" Leopon lowered an eyelid.

"I...don't know how to approach her," he looked lowly, "Christmas's coming up, I made her a little something."

"Really? Let me see," Leopon stepped over.

Wick blushed furiously, having Leopon so close.

Ugh, why can't I just talk!?

Sun Dancer

Adjusting her hoop skirt, Asuna's gaze stuck to a bell tethered set of double doors, knees mere pages apart. Her thickened throat left every breath ever so slightly hitched, awaiting a reminder of late hour ventures.

Why did I let go?

[From Taiyama: So I got word from Garr, more building space will be available in less than 2 weeks. How about we build a home?]

A heavy blush washed over, matched with a stiffness in frame. Asuna closed this message, her hazel eyes wet. Trembling from head to ankles, only a fleeting privacy was held. Staring at two wooden doors, she waited.

I shouldn't have done that, I wasn't thinking straight. God, what would my Mom think? Okay, calm down. This happened here, not real life...but it...it felt real.

Hearing faint discussion, Asuna's [Advanced Hearing] was activated. Not a minor turn was given, her hazel eyes lit as words two rooms away spilled.

"I feel stuck," Leopon said distantly, "hurting Lis' the last thing I wanna do. She was there for me when I had nowhere to go. To turn my back on what'd keep my father and I safe though?"

"It doesn't make sense though," Wick said, "why's your Dad so set about you getting with this guy? Who is he?"

Asuna's mind swam fast, compromising and direct.

So Garr is Heathcliff's new target? It makes sense, we gotta have sensible people running this.

A warm night's recollection brought Asuna's hair over her face. Her legs closed tightly, hands wiping her shirt instinctively.

[From Taiyama: So what happened yesterday?]

While hesitation held a firm grip, Asuna insisted.

[To: We talked]

[From: About?]

December 14th, 2022 - 11:38 AM

"I'll keep this brief," Garr stood in front of Asuna, "would you like a drink?"

"No thank you," Asuna shook her head, "um..."

Garr's face was splotched with bruises, covering from forehead to his fingers.

"I see Leafa's been teaching you," Asuna laughed weakly.

"She likes hitting me," Garr grunted, "it's good in the context of training. Her not pulling punches teaches me where I'm weak. Would break her if it weren't for that."

Asuna nodded, but kept a false smile. PoH observed from a chair, black eyes careful in their penetration.

"Could we talk in private?"

"Not in here," Garr said.

"Why not?"

"There's only bedrooms past here. Being alone with a woman in one of those is a bad idea."

"Alright, where?"

"Outside," he turned and waved, "Alban, may you join us?"

"Yes, Altai."

"Asterius? Border status?"

"Locked down, Altai."

"Hm," he nodded to Asuna, leading her outside.

A bright savanna sun did little to help Asuna. Its unyielding brightness left her looking to shade, shoulders forced back in defense of posture. Joined by four heavily armored Tauran, they wandered only a few meters from Garr's palace.

"Are you alright?" Garr looked serious to Asuna, "I won't lie, Yole's already tried my patience."

"Yes, thank you. I'm sorry I dragged you out like this."

"I arranged the meeting, what's on your mind?"

"Okay," she crossed arms over her chest, "it's...about Lis."

Garr's expression softened.

"Is she staying clean?"

Asuna nodded, but kept defensive.

"When's the last time you spoke to her?"

"December sixth. Why are you asking?"

Asuna steadied herself, Garr's aggressive tone barring approaches.

"Mean, have you had a girlfriend before?"

"Sure," he shrugged and laughed, "if a week counts. You wouldn't believe how awkward that was. I gave my first attempted kiss, right?"

"Ya?" Asuna followed.

"Notice how I said attempt. See I went in too hard, ended up head butting her, with my face."

"How'd she react?"

"By never speaking to me again," Garr chuckled, "I get a bit excited."

"I can tell," Asuna face-palmed.

"Better to be honest and wrong, than deceitful and right. The rest is just a question of aim."

Asuna blinked, his statement repeating. Struggling to find a response, other topics filed through.

"Quick question," Garr glanced, "have you met with Kibaou or Lind recently?"

"No, why?"

"Just curious."

December 15th, 2022 - 11:40 AM

[To: just catching up, asking if I saw anything unusual]

Asuna's last message was sent, her head turning to the forge room door.

"Leopie? Could you help me with something?"

Leopon quickly arrived, eyes swerving around the storefront, only to be tugged to Asuna's side. Blonde hair lifted briefly, falling back down as Asuna whispered gently in her ear.

"Go for it."

"Huh?"

"Follow what your father asked."

"But what about Lis?"

"You gotta keep Garr from taking advantage of her."

"Beg your pardon?" Leopon leaned back slightly.

"You know those two meet in secret, there's no way a jerk like him's getting close. He must be lying."

A bell's jingle brought both pairs of eyes turning, a squeaking wheel closing in.

"Guys!" Yuuki rushed in, "get ready to party!"

"Hey!" Lis rolled her cart in, "anyone wanna come?"

"Party?" Leopon shifted to face her, "where?"

"Hang on," Lisbeth cupped her lips, "everybody?"

Wick and Leafa emerged from their quarters, crowding up with Asuna, Yuuki, and Leopon as Lisbeth disassembled her [Vendor's Carpet].

"So Asuna met this girl named Haru recently, right? Well we talked and she said Bale's hosting a marshmallow party today, we're invited too!"

"Wee!" Yuuki jumped beside Wick, "you'll love it, Wicky!"

Wick glanced to Leafa, who herself gripped her elbow with an opposing hand.

"Sounds fun," Leopon smiled, "gives us some time out of the shop."

"But will eating that get me fat?" Leafa said, "I gotta stay in shape."

"We're in a game," Lis reached for Leafa's shoulder, "trust me, I already had at least two."

"Two?" Leafa craned her head back, "but they're only as big as an egg."

To this, Lisbeth laughed. Watching Leafa's eyes bulge, Wick occasionally glanced at Lisbeth, her chest pronounced with her [Maid Outfit].

Marshmallows can only get so big, right?

"We could all use a break," Asuna smiled brightly, "but Lis, shouldn't we wear something formal? It is a party."

"Aye it's a bit of a short notice," Lis blushed, "but we look good right now. Except Wick."

"What?" Wick blinked, frowning.

"Pf," Lisbeth snickered, "messin' with ya."

Closing their shop for the day, an eastbound journey was made from Urbus' central districts. Dry air skirted around, dust settling into slits of pavement as people laughed around them. Games were played, with some of Garr's own Tauran guards participating. Tribes ranging from Wind Mane to beetle-shell clad Spotters roamed, their massive [Trembling Cows] filing cautiously. Their sides dangled with goods, iconography bright against spotted fur.

"Someone bought milk!"

Lisbeth and her friends turned, crowds rushing and surrounding the nearest [Trembling Cow], its escorting tribe silent. A few members spread out in a circle, chanting softly as knees were bent before their bovine. Others, however, faced outward, their hands like matrices of stone. Legs shifted, motions slow and rhythmic.

Lisbeth smiled, speed picking up as Wind Mane chants grew louder. Fire launched from rocky palms, their energy weaved like cotton strands between hardened fingers. Onlookers cheered as flames spun, rose, and fell, a single Tauran quietly extracting fresh milk behind performers. Watching this, Leopon's grey-blue eyes lit brightly.

How could Dad feel so worried, look at this.

"Hey," a stray voice growled, "whose he?"

Leopon glanced back, a crowd of Japanese gathered. Their eyes honed on Wick, who in keen awareness stepped back softly.

"He's American," Leopon said softly, "don't worry."

While stern looks were given, they turned away without comment. With focus partly restored to the local milk celebration, Wick slipped beside Leopon.

"Thanks."

"You're welcome," Leopon nodded.

"Why're they so happy about milk?" Wick rubbed his cheek, "it's neat, I just don't know why."

"It's a spiritual thing," Lis whispered, "each member gets a dose of this when they reach teen years. It's a rite of passage, like the paint when they're adults."

A milk filled flask was delivered, the Tauran dance halting as its consumer grasped its handle. He turned away, resulting in a short gasp.

"Hey!" Lisbeth waved, "wait!"

The blacksmith's group watched as she rushed to help, the purchaser softly reminded to raise a knee and lift said vase over his head. Crowds dispersed calmly, groups returning to their business, tribesmen continuing their sales march. Rejoining her friends, Lisbeth beamed while leading them out.

"That was amazing," Yuuki smiled, "those fire dancers must've trained for years!"

"It's a tradition the Sun Dancers started. Course don't tell other tribes that."

"Why?" Asuna looked down at her, "seems like a silly thing to keep secret."

Lisbeth's eyes met Asuna's, fire pluming like a lighter on gasoline.

"Aye, pride's a painful thing."

Asuna's heart heated, eyeing Lisbeth like a hawk.

"How do you know it's pride?"

"Cause they're not subtle?" Lis looked her back, "Haru's place should be close, come on."

While Yuuki distracted Wick with wild discussion, Leopon saw their shared gazes, but kept awareness to herself.

They're really going at each other, but why'd Asuna make a move like that?

Sun Dancer

To Urbus' northeast corner laid a two story home, its flat stone entrance decorated with strung colored paper, as well as two [Glaive] wielding bouncers.

"I really wish we had more to work with than stone," Leafa sighed, "the houses all look the same. If we had more wood, maybe bamboo, we could really make this town pretty."

Wick turned his head to Leafa in response.

Hey, she's artistic too?

"Why's everyone using pole weapons?" Yuuki tilted her head, "I see it all the time now."

"I don't know Yuuki," Asuna patted her shoulder, "let's not bother them, okay?"

A momentary identification check led to granted permission, Lisbeth's group filing in to a living room in motion. Greeting everyone in sight with warm smiles and light bows, Asuna was the only member recalling them. Kibaou and Lind held tankards, drinking and chuckling near Bale's front door. Song filled the hall, Graye clutching a microphone with Silica, [Karaoke] dueling in front of a dormant fireplace.

"Chef's in the kitchen," Kibaou told Asuna, "think her name's Haru."

Yuuki jumped on the nearest couch, having found a distracted Teika perched near its corner. Seated beside a near-sleeping Aoki, his eyes had up until then kept exclusively on a singing Silica, whose wolves noisily attempted mimicking her long notes. With Yuuki's abrupt greeting, however, grew a fire behind Silica's red eyes, watching Teika's gaze shift.

Yuuki!

"My king," Yuuki bowed to Teika, "grant me fire with your words?"

Aoki chuckled weakly before saying, "ho ho, look who's back."

"Uh how?" Teika leaned aside a bit from Yuuki, "also hi."

"By helping me," Yuuki held her bow, "help me find Allston, beat Cel's church, maybe more..."

"Wow," Aoki laughed, "Teika, you dog."

Silica's face reddened, her brows furrowing as she tried to sing it off. Seeing this, Graye canceled their duel, gently coaxing her to Teika. Asuna walked past the quarreling pair, Yuuki and Silica's rivalry burning behind her as she passed into the kitchen. In a room of light color and polished ceramic counters, a man in red and a snow haired girl spoke.

"-have some fun too," Oran splayed hands, one holding a bottle.

"then who'll make the marshmallows?" Haru shook her head, "I appreciate the offer, but I gotta stay here."

"Oi, but you're missin' Graye's tunes," Oran waved back, "shit's banging, love."

"Hey Haru," Asuna bowed softly, "was wondering where you were."

Lisbeth, Leafa, and Wick followed behind, watching as Haru greeted before scrambling to an oven.

"Eyo' jail bird!" Oran grinned at Lis, "haven't seen you in a while."

"Hey quick draw," Lisbeth smiled, "any new ethic fails?"

"Oi," he laughed, "only two."

"Why aren't you out enjoying the party?" Asuna asked Haru, "you look great!"

Wick's eyes savored Haru's attire, her heavy, baggy clothes replaced with a form fitting orange [Dirndi], its vestments doing little to hide her bosom. The historical Austrian dress left him drawing away, but only in his mind, fingers curling.

The orange is just vibrant, sharp against her pale figure, especially with white hair. Ugh, her cleavage though, how'd she hide cannons that big?

"I have to make marshmallows," Haru drew a wide pan with mittens on, "stand back!"

As soon as Haru's bronze surface left, a cube of white expanded, reaching two feet in width and height within seconds. Its spongy surface was pocked with holes, its porous mass jiggling as it cooled in open air, Haru struggling to set it on the counter as others assisted her. After thank yous, the alchemist took another sample of seeds, placing them within a glass vial and shaking.

"How about we help you make those?" Asuna smiled, "we wouldn't mind."

"Do you know how to mix herbs?" Haru raised a brow, "it's pretty important to getting this right."

"Asuna's a great cook," Lisbeth stepped up, "besides, Leopie and I have a little experience ourselves."

Leopon blushed slightly, staring out another direction.

Um...when's the last time I cooked something?

"If you insist," Haru shrugged, "I'll stay and guide you through, gotta be sure."

"Lis?" Leopon tapped Lisbeth's shoulder, "I don't know what to do."

"Relax Leopie," Lis lassoed her friend's arm, "Asuna n' I will carry this, watch!"

Haru first displayed [Marshmallow Seeds], using the two foot brick of sweetness as an example.

"This is how big they get when heated, but they won't taste like anything, unless you apply sugar."

"Haru!" a distant voice called.

"Oh no," Haru froze briefly, "um, mix sugar with these seeds for uh two minutes, be right back!"

The alchemist bolted from her kitchen, racing off down a hall before making a right. Looking at each other, Asuna hemmed before picking up the sugar vial.

"Just how much sugar's in this?" she inspected.

"Who cares!" Lisbeth snatched, "let's shake it up!"

"We should wait for Haru," Leafa said nervously.

"Please, Asuna's been cooking up our meals since day one," Lisbeth mixed, "we can handle this together!"

Asuna bowed her head, heat welling up in her gut.

I really hope I'm not coming off as conceited.

Commotion leaked from Bale's living room, reverberating through walls.

"Yuuki, stop it!"

"But Silly-ca, you look so cute without those!"

Aoki's laughter only prompted Asuna's quick intervention, stomping out of the kitchen while grumbling to herself. Lisbeth peeked a corner, but grew a toothy grin.

"Let's experiment, shall we?"

"Oh no," Leafa paled.

Wick and Leopon watched, momentary glances between each other expressing what confusion each possessed. While Lisbeth stirred, Asuna caught Yuuki in a teasing act, a pair of red beads held in her fist. With her light brown hair laying straight and to mid-back, Silica leaped in an effort to snag back what the prankster snatched.

"Come on," Teika said gently, "give it."

"She needs to sing!" Yuuki danced around Silica, "she's better at that than flirting for sure."

"Hey!" Silica cried, "it's not funny!"

"Trust me Silica," Aoki laid back, "Teika's not going anywhere."

"But he's looking at her!"

"It's not like she's jumping in my face or anything," Teika groaned, "gods, I don't see why you're so-"

Yuuki jumped into Teika's personal space, latching onto his face without warning. Teika's breath hitched, Yuuki's arms tightening around his shoulders, a flare of warmth spreading. Silica shrieked, Aoki froze, Asuna stepping forward as Yuuki released him.

"Yuuki!" Asuna almost shouted, "what're you doing?"

"Oh hey Asuna," Yuuki smiled, "just playing around."

Asuna sighed, Silica recovering her red beaded hair ties while Yuuki's distracted, eyes burning hatefully. Teika stared blankly at a dormant fireplace, whether by uncertainty of prior events, or a stark terror of what came next was unclear.

"We can't let our emotions get the better of us like that," Asuna said.

"But you looked so happy around Tai," Yuuki tilted her head, "why's this wrong?"

Asuna's eyes flared, biting her tongue and holding her breath. Relaxing her shoulders and breathing deeply, she looked back to Yuuki.

"Why don't you help me with making marshmallows?"

"Okay!" Yuuki hopped, "later, my king."

Towing Yuuki along, Asuna was reunited with her friends, who gathered loosely around an excited Lisbeth. Pouring the glass's contents on the pan, Lisbeth dialed the time.

"Let's put it in for...a minute. Nothing too long."

"You sure about this?" Wick said feebly.

"A minute's nothing," Lisbeth slid the pan, "our meal's take longer than that."

Waving Asuna over, their bubblegum haired chef smiled brightly.

"Right on time," Lis rubbed hands together, "we're one minute from our first marshmallow!"

"What?" Asuna blinked, "we were just gonna mix the sugar."

"Ya well being told how to handle things," Lisbeth's smile turned devious, "you guys ready?"

Oran, who had been sitting back watching the affair stuck farthest away from the crowd.

Why do I feel uncomfortable?

"Got a bad feeling," Leafa grimaced.

"It'll be interesting," Leopon crossed arms, "go ahead Lizzy."

"Do it!" Yuuki clapped, "I'll go next!"

"I think you should wait first," Asuna said gently.

Wick watched as Lisbeth slipped on mittens, reaching for the pan's handle.

That pink hair fits her so perfectly, especially with those curls. Whoever this guy is that's after Lis, seeing her bend over's gotta be a treat. Her hands just demand to be given a weapon to "fix".

Lisbeth pulled, yanking at her pan, a lack of movement earning stares from her friends.

"You okay?" Leopon stepped beside Lis.

"I can barely move it," Lis let go to breathe, "could use a hand."

Haru hurriedly walked back in, green eyes wide as they caught on to a growing crowd around her oven.

"W-What're you doing?" she put hands on her hips, "I told you to just mix the sugar!"

"We did," Lis pulled with Leafa's help, "I put it in the pan for just a minute too!"

"Phew," Haru brushed her brow, "it's only supposed to go for forty five seconds, but it should be okay. Hm, it might even be better."

"Ugh," Leafa tugged, "then why's it still so tight?"

Lisbeth chuckled, as well as Yuuki.

"What?!"

"Oh Leafa," Lis shook her head, "I can't wait for you to have a boyfriend."

Dissatisfied with results, Asuna and Haru banded together with Leafa and Lis, synchronizing their pull. The pan shifted, slowly at first, but ultimately slid out. A low groan, however, left Wick inching back.

"That's weird," Haru blinked, "I don't remember it ever-"

Upon exiting the stone oven, the pan's contents broke out, detonating with a loud pop. Screams filled the kitchen, their environment altered in ways only Wick and any inquisitive party guests could describe. Wick's face turned a bloody red, staring at his group of friends with shock, clutching a counter as his blood heated.

"Ugh," Lisbeth swatted hands, "this..."

"Ew!" Leafa cried.

Melted marshmallow had decorated every girl around Wick, caking them in adhesive ivory from the face down. Wick watched as clumps stuck to Lisbeth's freckled cheeks, chunks dripping on her chest. Leafa shivered, wiping off whatever hadn't infiltrated between her well endowed anterior, only to get some on her hands. Leopon was least bothered of all, going so far as to scoop samples and taste them.

"Mm," Leopon said, "still good."

Haru, however, was rigid in place, face wrinkled as it ran down her orange dress. Surveying the kitchen ceiling with green eyes, she shuddered as another clump landed on her cheek.

"Lis...how many seeds did you put in the pan?"

Yuuki laughed hysterically as Asuna whimpered, her legs pasted.

"Lemmie help you there," Yuuki approached with open hands.

A thank you almost left Asuna's lips, but a plea for help emerged first, witness to how coated Yuuki's hands were.

"No!"

While Oran chuckled, a witnessing Kibaou and Lind crept away, averting their eyes.

"Just gonna forget that happened," Kibaou blinked, "so what do we do?"

"We wait," Lind rubbed his eyes, "Aggroing Garr any further would be stupid."

Leopon's eyes inspected, the lioness blushing.

God, this looks wrong. It's even getting inside my shirt! Dad better not see me like this!

"Here."

Leopon glanced, her eyes narrowed as she wiped off white residue. A slightly taller man held out a towel, its red color matching his bandanna. A stubble marked his thin chin, narrow eyes warm and dark.

"Oh...thanks," Leopon delicately took, cleaning herself with it.

Lisbeth's face blushed brightly, trembling as Haru got up in her face.

"Uh, eight?"

"You're supposed to put one!" Haru fumed, "god, what were you thinking?"

"Hm," Lis clawed in her pockets, "oh...you got some on your chest."

"Don't remind me!"

Sun Dancer

After a thorough towel exchange between Asuna, Leopon, and Yuuki, the three left behind a bathtub bound Leafa, a hygienically indentured Lisbeth, and a blushing Wick behind. Bale's living room filled with awkward silence, Oran sticking to a corner with Graye, his blue eyes making no contact. Finding the couch empty, Asuna investigated.

"Um," Asuna glanced to Graye, "where's Silica?"

"Oh she's upstairs," Graye said, "looked real sad too, poor girl."

"I'll go find her," Yuuki bowed, "one sec!"

While Yuuki walked upstairs, Asuna took a seat to rest her head.

So tired of this already. Why couldn't this party have been held on Christmas?

As Graye returned to Oran, his green eyes caught sight of a cheek bite.

"What'd you do," Graye said.

Oran slid out a black crystal from an inner coat pocket, barely visible for Graye.

"Is that what I think it is?"

"Oi," Oran whispered, "don't blow it. What we got here's a goldmine."

Graye glanced back, the kitchen entrance still dirtied with clumps of white.

"Dude, that's embarrassing."

"I just secured our Christmas presents," Oran shrugged, "don't spoil it, mate."

Yuuki softened her step, the house's second floor narrowed to a simple hallway. Voices bounced from walls, implying occupation towards her left. Behind her first door, an empty bedroom resided, its pale walls and plain floor hiding nothing. Another opened, conversation clarified from behind its wooden constitution.

"Yes?" Teika peeked.

"You heard me?" Yuuki tilted her head.

"These walls aren't soundproof, so yes."

"I wanted to tell Silica I'm sorry," Yuuki rubbed the back of her head, "I went overboard, bad habit."

Teika looked back to a bed seated Silica, whose arms were massaged by Aoki. While her face dried after untold frustration, her red eyes still burned.

"I'm okay, Tiki. Just...stay with me please?"

"Think you'll have to wait Yew'k," Aoki rubbed Silica's arms, "go back and enjoy the party."

"Okay," Yuuki smiled, "long as she knows I was kidding around!"

Teika quickly closed the door, turning back to Silica with pocketed hands.

"What do you think?" Silica grimaced.

"Worried. Why's she chasing me? Who's Allston, why fight the church? This girl literally came outta nowhere."

"It's probably best you don't think about it much," Aoki shrugged, "girl's nuts, you said it."

"I don't like her," Silica curled up, "something's funny with her eyes."

Outside their door, Yuuki's smile faded.

Why do people not believe me? I'm not crazy, I just don't see it their way! But...what if I am? Is there something I'm not seeing?

Yuuki shook for a second, heading down the rest of Bale's second floor. Opening doors left and right, she found mostly bedrooms, peaking barely a spark of interest. Easing its last barrier aside, however, Yuuki paused. A laboratory, its racks loaded with flasks, test tubes half filled and corked. Most curious of all, were jarred spheres of pale light, bobbing on a desk.

"Ooo," Yuuki walked in and grabbed one, "pretty."

It bounced gently as she shook it, mimicking the physical behavior of a balloon, hugging the roof of its container closely. Flipping it, Yuuki grinned as it readjusted, inertia dragging it as she turned. Looking at its light blue form, her eyes glistened, only to freeze in place. Planted on a corner, behind this light, a miasma of fluctuating color rippled. Circular in outline, several smaller repetitions lingered within itself. An [Unknown Rune], its color radiating and fading at near unnoticeable rates.

"Wow," Yuuki's eyes widened.

Engrossed by its effulgence and patterns, no attention was given to the laboratory's owner, who approached with a harsh pause. Haru brushed hair aside from her eyes, staring at what Yuuki played with.

"What the hell?"

Yuuki whipped around, her face paling at Haru's presence.

"Oh hi," Yuuki said, "uh, I was just looking."

"Don't move," Haru looked over her shoulder, "shine that light again?"

A rotating and flashing rune left Haru staring, hawing at its circular pattern.

"That's so strange, I've never seen this before. Hold still."

Haru paused, pulling off a glove from her right hand. Yuuki blinked, Haru's glowing digits curling, an [Aethereal Node] forming. Taking this sphere and rubbing it between palms, a bright [Star-let] emerged. Its light flashed throughout the lab, Yuuki's discovered rune revealing itself from an unseen pocket of reality. Taking her [Star-let] away, the rune vanished from sight, except from Yuuki's sight.

"Yep, gotta touch it," Yuuki smirked, placing her hand central in an [Unknown Rune's] frame.

Haru's attempts at restraining Yuuki were hopeless, Yuuki's hand pressing. As if pushing into gelatin, its surface mushed against Yuuki's hand, rippling like water as she extracted, fearful of injury. Within seconds of exposure, Yuuki's eyes closed, her body swaying gently. A rhythmic, sleep-like state enveloped her being, flexing and bending slowly, a gentle spin and step captivating Haru.

Hey...it's causing some sort of transcendence.

Drawing her record of written notes, Haru observed Yuuki carefully. Every flick of a finger, every rise was archived, input lagged only by limited hand speed. After sparse minutes, Yuuki stiffened like a tree, entering a stasis of motionless peace. Her red eyes opened, mouth partly agape as she flailed in momentary fright.

"Hey," Haru put out a hand, "you're okay, calm."

"Okay?" Yuuki softened her breath before grinning, "okay? I just found him! I can finally end this for good!"

"Found who?" Haru watched as Yuuki raced out, flying the stairs.

Bale's living room filled with chatter, though Asuna's drowsiness hadn't improved. Rushing to a seated Wick, Yuuki grabbed his hand.

"Wick, we gotta go!" she cheered, "I found him!"

"What?" Wick looked up, "who? Where?"

"Allston, silly! We gotta find him, come on!"

"Um," Wick glanced around, "you sure?"

"He's only in the cornfield, not far at all!" Yuuki jumped.

Oran stepped out from his corner, Graye behind him.

"What's got you?" Graye whispered.

"That name," Oran nodded partly, "bandit prick, well...okay only a little."

"So?"

Oran glanced to Graye.

"You remember Garr's call, something about hooligans messing with his crops."

"Ya?"

"Sounds to me like this Yuuki's got something. Think we could help our good friend Wick, he saved our arses."

"I'm not against that," Graye shook his head, "it just seems a bit out there, mean where's her evidence?"

"Don't know, but I could use some fresh air. Besides, if she's right..."

"True," Graye nodded, "alright mate, I'm with you."

Wick turned his head, smiling at both Graye Sight leaders' approach.

"Good to see you mate," Oran smiled to Wick, "holdin' up alright?"

"Uh yes," Wick said, "you?"

"Oh you know," Graye elbowed Oran's gut, "exercising patience."

"It's mutual," Oran groaned, "anyway, you mentioned Allston. Know where he is?"

"Sure do!" Yuuki bounced, "it's on the back of my mind."

"Would be a shame if you had to handle that alone," Graye smiled, "Oran hates being alone all the time."

"Did you have to tell them that?" Oran growled.

"It's called making friends, knob-head. You up?"

"What about Leafa?" Yuuki eased, "Wicky, she is strong."

"She's...kinda busy," Wick sweated, "she's been bathing since that uh...thing."

"Lis?"

"Still cleaning."

"Asuna?"

A soft snore answered for them.

"Mean I could call up some lads," Oran brought out an interface, "bandits don't fight alone."

Leopon, who up until this point had remained chatting with Klein stepped forward, his friends behind her.

"Someone say bandits?" Klein grinned sly, "we don't care for troublemakers."

Yuuki's grin grew nearly to her ears, her volunteers exceeding the quantity of a small platoon.

Sun Dancer

Corn leaves slid against clothes, their sharp edges forcing Yuuki to wear heavier garb. Following behind her, Klein and his Fuurinkazan guild stayed close.

"So what gave him away?" Leopon shouldered her [Cross Shield], "Yuuki's not going random directions."

"Not sure," Oran gripped his [Bo-Staff], "but way I see it, who cares? Bag the wanker, rave about it, profit."

Yuuki's focus never wavered, rushing past stalks, stepping over canals brimming with water.

"Question," Graye marched besides Oran, "Where's Garr getting this water? It barely rains here."

Nobody had an exact answer, too many relished finding their prey. Under a hot sun, between blades of corn, elves were found. Their gazes jumped, cloth bags gripped in their hands as they fled from Fuurinkazan and volunteer forces.

"Keep running!" Oran shouted, "you're caught, bitch!"

Yuuki picked up speed, using her [Arming Sword] to poke legs, causing fleeing elves to trip, their locomotion tearing more from exertion than her blade. Only upon reaching a brief clearing, did her feet plant. Yuuki's heart slammed against her chest, glaring as a tall, ax-wielding elf looked her in the eyes.

"You again?"

Yuuki smiled, Allston freezing as her allies emerged from the brush with weapons drawn. Fuurinkazan lined up tanks, DPS taking hard flanks, concealing within brush. Allston's own drew weapons, packing together in a circular formation.

"Oh," Allston glanced right and left, "gotta say Yuuki, you sure hold a grudge. Do you have any idea what your king's doing?"

"Teika's innocent," Yuuki held up her [Arming Sword], "unlike you."

"Who the hell's that?" Allston craned his pointed eared head back, "Altai's profiting off starving people, all while we're still fixing our farms, which your people burned."

"Ah shut up," Oran readied, "Garr didn't burn your farms, he's not nearly that clever."

"Fine," Allston bent knees, "ignore me. What do I have to do to keep this field from getting fresh fertilizer?"

"A one on one duel," Yuuki said, "to the death."

"Hold on a second," Leopon blinked.

Allston's smile grew.

"No friends?"

"Nope."

"Just a head on fight?"

Leopon grabbed Yuuki's arm.

"Don't do it, he's gonna pull something."

"If I die?" Allston spun twin axes, "you spare my boys. I win, we drop what we're doing and go."

"We will arrest you," Oran eased his weapon down, "one way or another."

"Alright," their leader grinned, "I'm game...bring it."

Yuuki looked to Leopon, whose eyes softened.

"if I go," she leaned to Leopon's ear, "tell Wick," she stopped, "actually...nah, he already knows. Wish me luck!"

"What about Asuna?!" Leopon chased her.

"She'll understand," Yuuki stopped, firming her stance fifteen feet from Allston.

Oran's breath surfaced, shallow in its depth.

I've seen this before, I had to drag her off last time.

"I admire her," Graye muttered.

"What?"

"She doesn't give up. Win or lose, she owns this."

Wick nodded, overhearing them.

I really should learn swordsmanship, it sickens me to see everyone else do the fighting.

Allston extended a [Hatchet] forward, guarding his center, his right's ax held rib-cage close. Yuuki's sword arm reached full length, lightly spinning its tip, changing its flow every moment.

"You know, I was hoping you spared me out of mercy. It's pretty rare to find," Allston paced around Yuuki with careful steps.

"You're trying to get in my head," Yuuki swiped, "it won't work, jerk."

"Ha," Allston smiled before flexing back, "it's gonna suck when you realize how bleak this place is."

Using his forward facing ax, Allston hooked Yuuki's [Arming Sword], heaving forward with a quick chop of another. Instead of resisting, Yuuki followed through, letting herself be carried by his pull, only to realign herself after. Swinging down and quick, her sword forced Allston to backpedal, rebuking Yuuki's immediate advance with a twin flourish, [Hatchets] spinning.

"Been learnin', tell me-"

Yuuki dove forward as his spinning tools slowed, only to withdraw, a feint bringing Allston to deflect what never came. Dancing between blocked cuts, dodged slashes, not a single hit was delivered, both fighters left sweating and breathing as metal chipped and shrieked.

"Did you really think I killed people to get where I want?" Allston swung low, "Cause I'll tell ya, I'm nothing compared to those house folks."

Yuuki flinched, her [Arming Sword] barely stopping a direct chop, throwing herself far back as he careened a second ax to her throat.

"Those Blight-bathers? Heh, they'd butcher your whole family if it meant gettin' a catchy Cor. Haven't you wondered?"

Yuuki unleashed a circular flourish, zoning Allston with a rush of swipes and sweeps, her [Arming Sword] whipping through air.

Asuna's technique, right up in your face, get you to stop thinking.

"Why they're the only part of the Congregate still standing?" Allston tried circling around, "it's not hard, trust me!"

Leaping left he threw a [Hatchet] at a low angle, its edge flipping like a windmill, crashing against Yuuki's thigh with a loud squish. Yuuki shrieked as she staggered, crying as her wound grew, its culprit hitting dusty soil.

"First blood," he grinned, "Cel, I wish this wasn't mandatory...but rules are rules."

"Yuuki!" Leopon cried out.

Wick shook with tensed fists, Oran looking away as Allston followed a crippled Yuuki, eyes clamped shut as Graye watched the leader play.

"But kid, this's the third time you've chased me. And this gets me, do you just lack purpose?"

Yuuki stumbled to her feet, hobbling on her one undamaged leg.

"Say you win, you beat me. Then what?"

Moaning and wincing, her [Arming Sword] shakily lifted, aiming again at Allston's chest.

"Oh don't rush it," Allston chuckled, "take your time, catch your breath."

Met with only laughter, her eyes wavered, shoulders dipping. Cold took a firm root, her face clammy, the breeze biting.

I'm losing this, I've not put a scratch on him. There's no running away, he'll just chase me down.

Her mind unraveled, returning to familiar grounds, Leafa and her training alone.

"Never trust an open guard," Leafa once said, "it's most likely a low stance. It only looks open, in fact watch."

In Yuuki's playback Leafa let her [Katana] back, its tip a mere foot off the ground, its handle sticking out. Repeating this motion, Yuuki lowered her [Arming Sword], its blade passing over her left thigh, exposing her center. Allston grinned softly, eyeing her wounded leg.

"Really?" he laughed, "Cel's grace, kid." he drew a third [Hatchet] from his belt, "I'm no beginner."

Yuuki winced, Allston's left arm folding behind his head, teasing at a throw as he backed away. Leopon squeezed her [Cross Shield's] handle, shivering as her friend struggled to stand.

What am I gonna tell Asuna? This is horrible, Yuuki doesn't deserve to die like this.

While Yuuki's friends cried out to her in thinly veiled fear, Allston's [Hatchet] flew nonetheless, flipping as it cut through air. Gritting her teeth, Yuuki threw herself down, letting her back mash against grass, Allston's weapon sweeping past her without harm.

"Another?" Allston shrugged before drawing his fourth and final ax, "okay then."

Yuuki forced herself up, body pitching as her gash tore from exertion, heart pounding as her eyes set upon a charging Allston, his right hand pitching back.

There's no way I'll last another dodge, it hurts too much.

The world around her slowed, Allston's cocked [Hatchet] catapulting within fingertips, Yuuki leaning back. Her neck chilled, his throw an absolute feint, drawn back as his other ax careened from his waist, an elevating diagonal. Gliding high and straight, its edge neared Yuuki's chest, its bronze sheen detailed as it soared. Allston's smiled vanished as it passed, his wrist tensed for a hit, a blow he never made.

Sweeping past her by a mere inch, Yuuki's eyes honed on an opening, diving her [Arming Sword] straight in. Her wrist shook as she pushed, Allston's stomach pressing against a bronze hand-guard. A choked groan escaped above her, Allston's shadow lurching. Staring at her deed, Yuuki cried out, a grievous cavity spilling red, coating her handle and hand indiscriminately.

"O-Oh God!" she babbled.

A loud thump brought Yuuki crashing, an axe's blunt face striking her skull. Yuuki crumpled against soil, silent and unmoving, Allston breathing haggardly, dropping his weapons. He wriggled, lurching as his shaking hands gripped a stained leather handle. Trying to pull an [Arming Sword] from his gut, tears poured without restraint.

"Good news...kid," he grunted and slowed, "I...lost weight."

Glass detonated all around Yuuki, whose eyes laid shut as her sword clattered against rocks, as well as a [Warhammer]. Allston's men screamed out to their leader, many attempting to flee as Fuurinkazan forces encircled. Resistance was met harshly, men collapsing as unconditional surrender was assured, their knees meeting Earth, heads low to weapons.

Graye rushed to Yuuki's side, hands scrambling to draw medical supplies from his satchel. Leopon cried out to Yuuki, repeating news of her success to deaf, unconscious ears. Inspecting his men, Oran's hands eventually held cloth bags, their dark green contents stirring him.

[To Garr: Yo, you got a moment? It's about those crop guys]

A/N: Hey everybody, Merry Late Christmas! Sorry for the long wait, I wanted to post a chapter on Christmas Day, but quality wasn't meeting expectations. Be sure to review, as it is more blessed to give than to receive.

Next week, we enjoy New Years!