Disclaimer: I do not own Prototype or Familiar of Zero

Infection in Halkeginia

Discovering new powers

"WHAT?!"

"Is something the matter?" Louise turned around while slipping into a pink nightgown.

Collin crossed his arms and deadpanned "You can't seriously be asking me to do your laundry."

"Why not? You're my familiar aren't you? A familiar is supposed to follow her master's orders and I'm telling you to get my clothes washed by morning." She flipped her hair out of the nightdress and fixed him with a glare, daring him to challenge her.

Collin returned her stare without flinching. After everything that had happened this pink haired menace wasn't the scariest in the least.

"No."

"Excuse me?" Her eyes widened in surprise. Never in her life had a commoner refused an order from a noble.

"No I am not doing your laundry. I agreed to be your partner not your chambermaid." If this was what was expected of him he didn't like it one bit.

Louise's mouth opened and closed like a fish. "I'm ordering you to do my laundry right now!" She howled stamping her foot.

Collin would have found the gesture quite cute seeing as Louise was two heads shorter than him, but at this moment she was just pissing him off.

Collin raised an eyebrow at the shorter girl. He had to make things clear now. He was not some slave to order about. "Well it seems we have different ideas of how this partnership is going to work out. I'll leave you to think about it."

As he turned to open the door he heard the creek of a drawer being opened and something being picked up.

CRACK!

Fire shot through Collins right arm and he bent over in pain. Cradling his right arm he turned to see Louise holding a riding whip in one hand, smugly tapping the head against the other. Did she just whip him?

"I didn't think I would have to use this so soon. It's a good thing I bought it after all." She smirked, obviously thinking she had obtained her familiars obedience. "Now be a good familiar and do my laundry before I punish you again. Maybe I should make you skip breakfast?"

That was it! Collin straightened up and stepped closer to Louise glaring at her fiercely. Little girl or not he wasn't going to just take it.

Seeing his menacing expression her arrogant demeanour diminished slightly, replaced by a growing sense of fear. "What do you think you're doing?"

Collin didn't bother replying, he reached out towards her.

Louise then noticed just how much bigger Collin was compared to her. "Get away from me!" She raised her whip but her arm was caught by Collin.

"Ouch! Let go you're hurting me." She whimpered trying to pull herself free from the vice grip. She looked at his face and froze.

Collins eyes burned with fury as he ripped the whip from her grasp. "How dare you whip me like some common animal! What gives you the right?" He raised his free hand to deliver a hard slap.

It was then all traces of the proud, arrogant and abusive girl disappeared. Louise closed her eyes and shied away from him, scared.

Collin paused in mid-action. What the hell am I doing? Am I really going to hit a girl? He looked down at the defenceless girl in his grip and couldn't find the will to do it.

Controlling himself he released Louise, but not before the plucked the whip from her hand. Free from the constricting force Louise fell onto her bed. She opened her eyes to see Collin standing in front of her holding her whip. Her eyes became as large and saucers as she her imagination went on overdrive. Was he going to whip her? The shame if anyone saw. How could a noble let herself get whipped by a commoner?

With ease Collin snapped the whip in half and dropped in on the floor. Louise winced as they clattered loudly against the wooden flooring.

"Good night." Collin growled, leaving the room and a shocked Louise behind.

The corridor was dimly lit by flickering mage lights as Collin stalked down the hallways, muttering under his breath the entire time.

His life had been a series of extremely unfortunate events as of late. He had lost his home, lost his friends, lost both his parents and now he had an abusive little girl as his 'master'. He chucked to himself humourlessly. Some god out there must have a bone to pick with him. His frustrations finally boiled over and he punched a wall in frustration.

He was angry. But not at Louise per say. He was angry at himself. He had been unable to save his mother. His father had to sacrifice himself to save him. He was frustrated at how useless he had been.

Alex Mercer. The words rung in his mind. This whole thing was his fault. He had taken away him parents, his world and damn nearly taken his life. He clenched his fist in hatred as the hooded man filled his thoughts. He smashed his fist into the wall repeatedly, releasing his pent up emotions. At least he wasn't around anymore.

"Ex-excuse me milord. I-I don't mean to interrupt whatever you are doing. B-but if you do that the headmaster will be angry." A timid voice behind him squeaked.

Collin turned to see a young girl dressed in a black and white maid outfit with a white apron finishing the outfit. She had closely cropped black hair and wore a white hairband. He studied her face, she seemed to be about his age, and if he had to place a finger on it, of oriental descent.

She squeaked and covered her face with the basket of laundry she was carrying. Collin realized he was still wearing a fierce expression and ran his hand over his face. "I'm sorry. I didn't mean to disturb anyone. It's just that things have been a bit... complicated for me."

The maid seemed taken aback at his apology. "O-of course milord. It's just that you were damaging the wall."

Collin laughed "Damage the wall? I'm not sure about much but I'm certain a stone wall wouldn't be so… easily..." Collins words died out when he noticed the several strangely fist shaped indentations on the once perfect wall. "What the heck?"

"I-I'll be taking my leave milord." The maid curtsied and briskly walked away, shoes clacking loudly against the pavement.

"Wait a minute! What's your name?" Collin caught up and rested and hand on her shoulder.

Siesta froze as she felt the hand. Oh founder please no. I should have kept my mouth shut. "S-siesta milord."

Collin noticed she was tense and shivering under his grip. His face burned as he realised what he was doing hurriedly releasing her he apologised "I'm sorry I didn't mean to touch you inappropriately. Please don't misunderstand. And you don't have to call me lord. I'm just a commoner."

"Please don't insult my intelligence milord. No commoner would be able to damage a stone wall like that. If you're going to take advantage of me just do it quickly and be done with it." Siesta was both angry and close to tears, the stories of servants being taken as playthings by the nobles and not exaggerated. She knew he risks when she took the job but her family needed the money.

Are all the girls here bonkers? Collin was at a loss at what to do. He couldn't handle crying girls, especially not such a cute one.

He hurriedly tried to defuse the situation. "No! I'm serious. I was summoned as Louise's familiar. I'm really a commoner. I arrived just yesterday."

"Louise? Louise the Zero?" Siesta clapped a hand over her mouth as she realized what she had said. "I'm sorry! I shouldn't speak of her as such!"

Collin gave her a reassuring smile. "Don't worry. Louise and I aren't on the best of terms right now."

"So...you're not a mage?" Siesta felt almost giddy with relief.

"No." Collin replied, glad that it was over. "The name's Collin." He held out a hand.

"Nice to meet you Collin. What are you doing out so late?" Siesta ignored his hand and gave a little curtsy instead. Either she didn't want to touch him or they didn't do handshakes here.

Collin's stomach chose this moment to grumble loudly. As the sound echoed through the silent corridor Siesta kindly offered "Would you like some food? You can have some of the servant's meals with you if you'd like."

"Really? Thanks so much Siesta!"

Siesta laughed and led the way to the academy kitchen. Collin's mouth dropped open at the huge size of it. There were 4 long rows of tables for cooking and preparing food. Pots and pans of all shaped and sizes hung in neat rows and the cooking equipment was all lined neatly along the tables. Ingredients of all kinds were kept stacked in a corner of the room.

Siesta told Collin where to sit down before bustling about collecting cutlery and bowls. Collin sat down the basket of laundry and took a seat at the wooden table. Scooping up two bowls of stew she brought them and a loaf of bread and sat opposite Collin.

Immediately digging into his meal Collin mumbled through a mouthful of bread. "Is this really alright? Won't you get into trouble?"

"Don't worry. Marteau may run a tight kitchen but he's really nice to all the staff. He won't mind sharing some food with a fellow commoner." Siesta said, drinking her stew slowly, the complete opposite in civility compared to how Collin was slurping it up. He hadn't realized just how hungry it was. After having only military rations for so long the simple meal tasted heavenly and it smelt great too.

Siesta sneaked a glance at Collin. He seemed cute enough and was such a gentleman, offering to help her with the laundry. She entertained thoughts of having a family and children. She grinned dumbly as she drooled over the fantasy.

"Siesta are you alright?" Collin asked.

"Huh what?" Siesta asked in a fluster. She hadn't realized she zoned out. She hoped he didn't see the stupid smile she was sure she had on her face.

"I was asking why you called Louise 'the Zero' earlier."

"Oh you haven't heard?" Siesta was surprised.

"Heard what?"

"Your master, Louise, is hopeless at magic. She can't cast any spell right. That's why all the other students call her Louise the Zero. Even the servants know about it."

Collin frowned at this. It seemed there was more to his pink haired master than he thought. But then how did she summon him?

"Say Collin. Where are you from? I don't recognise your clothing from anywhere."

Collin hesitated in answering. He wasn't sure what to tell her. Would she believe him if he said he was from another world? She would probably think he was crazy. But she was the first person here he felt he could call a friend and didn't want to lie to her.

Taking in a deep breath he closed his eyes and said. "Well you might not believe me when I say this but... I'm from another world. Louise summoned me and I have no idea how I got here besides that."

Collin opened his eyes expecting to see Siesta backing away from but instead she was leaning forward, chest precariously close to dipping into her stew, and staring at him with wide eyes full of curiosity.

"Another world? For real? What is it like?" The questions tumbled from her like water, jumbling together.

Collin paused, not expecting this reaction before smiling. He was worried for nothing. He proceeded to tell her all about his world.

"Wow." Siesta said after he concluded his story. She tapped her chin thoughtfully. "You know, this reminds me of the stories my grandfather used to tell me about my great grandfather. Apparently he used to say he came from another world as well."

"Seriously?" Colin's brain worked on overdrive. "Is there any chance I could meet him?"

"He's dead."

"Oh...err sorry." Collin said awkwardly.

"Oh no I don't mean it like that. Don't worry, I've gotten over it." She sensed his discomfort and tried to reassure him, waving her hands in front of her.

"I've told you about myself. Now it's your turn." Collin tried to change the topic.

But the time they finished their meal Collin had learnt that Siesta came from a small village in the south called Tarbes. She was the eldest of her eight siblings and had left her village at an early age to seek employment, sending back most of her earnings. She'd found work at the Academy and was very happy with her job as it paid well and there was low risk of sexual harassment compared to working in the households of nobles. From what she had explained the commoners had it quite rough from nobles who tended to abuse their power.

Several kitchen staff began entering the kitchen, greeting Siesta warmly who returned them. She introduced Collin to them and he was warmly received. If he had paid more attention he would have noticed them talking among themselves, giggling at gesturing at the pair.

"You should go and wake Miss Vallière soon. It's almost morning." Siesta suggested clearing the table and washing the utensils. "I should also be getting back to work. It was nice meeting you Collin, I'll see you around." She hefted the laundry basket.

Collin thought back to the previous night and grimaced. He was in no hurry to handle the situation between himself and Louise. "Why don't I help you with those? It's the least I could do after the kindness you showed me."

Siesta blinked, surprised. "But Miss Vallière..."

"'Miss Vallière' can take care of herself." Collin pried the basket from Siesta's arms. "I insist."

Siesta blushed at this. "Well alright then. This way."

Xxxxxxxxx

It had been a rough night for Louise. After Collin's outburst and subsequent departure Louise had been left to brood over his words and had arrived at the conclusion that he wouldn't listen to her. After repeatedly berating herself for being so useless that she could not even control her familiar she cried herself to sleep.

Not that the torment stopped there. Her dreams were filled with various scenarios emphasizing her worthlessness as a mage. Her classmates laughing at her. Being kicked out of the school. Her mother giving her the disappointed look she always had on just for Louise.

It had truly been a rough night for Louise.

Sunlight filtered in through her window drawing her out from her restless slumber. She opened tired and puffy eyes, scowling at the sun. She didn't feel rested at all. Finally giving up on trying to rest she got up the bed with a groan.

Opening her dresser she pulled out a fresh set of uniform. She glanced sadly at the pile of worn clothes still sitting on the floor in a heap where Collin dropped then, a reminder of her inability to command her familiar. He still hadn't returned. With a sigh she sat at her dresser and began brushing her pink hair. Looking into her mirror she saw a tired and miserable looking little girl looking back at her.

She despised herself for being so weak. She was a Vallière! That's right! She shouldn't show such weakness!

Fixing a determined look on her face she finished her preparations. Even if she didn't have a familiar she would still be the best mage there was. Donning her cloak she set off for breakfast.

It was early morning and the school was mostly empty, it was the day of the void after all and most of the students were taking the chance to sleep in. She walked along in silence letting the solitude encase her as the clacks of her heels filled her ears. She had never had many friends was used to such feelings of solitariness.

I can't cast spells. I can't summon a proper familiar. I can't even control my familiar.

She was so engrossed in herself depreciating thoughts that she didn't notice Professor Colbert approaching in the opposite direction.

Spotting her he called out a greeting "Morning Miss Vallière." He frowned as he noted her mood; he was always good at reading people.

Snapped of her brooding she looked up and spotted the professor. She offered him a tired smile "Morning Professor Colbert."

They stopped in front of each other. The professor was balancing rolls of parchment under one arm and had his trusty staff in the other. Noting Collin's obvious presence he pieces two and two together easily. He cursed his lack of foresight. In his excitement over Collin he had overlooked that Collin probably had a whole different set of values and beliefs from the Halkeginians. It was inevitable that there would be conflict. He pondered over how to approach the situation.

Deciding to go for the light hearted route Colbert plastered a smile on his face and asked "I'm surprised to see you without your familiar. How is he adjusting?"

Professor Colbert was the closest adult Louise knew. Probably even closer than her parents. He always supported her despite her disastrous attempts at magic during his lessons. Even after all the other teachers had given up on her, he had tried his best to bring out her potential. A potential that she felt was non-existent but he seemed to be sure was there. "One day Miss Vallière. One day." He always said after her failures.

At the mention of her familiar all of Louise's determination and strong facade crumbled away. Breaking down she wrapped her arms around Professor Colbert's waist and began bawling her eyes out. He dropped the scrolls he was carrying in surprise. That was definitely not what he expected. Awkwardly patting her head he comforted her. "There there Miss Vallière. What's the matter?"

Louise sniffled. Professor Colbert would understand her right? He was a noble too after all. "My familiar won't listen to me."

"What happened?" He asked warmly.

"I told it to wash my clothes but it refused."

Colbert frowned; laundry wasn't exactly a task for a familiar.

"I even tried whipping it and it-" Louise was suddenly forced away by the professor.

Holding her at arm's length he looked her in the eyes and incredulously said "You what?" Of all the stupid things to do...

"I tried to whip it but it stopped me and even hurt me." Louise answered, confused at her teachers sudden change in mannerism. "A familiar is supposed to listen to its masters orders isn't it?"

Colbert slapped a hand to his forehead and muttered. "You idiot."

Louise was quite affronted by that and hurt that he wasn't siding with her. She retorted defensively. "I did exactly as the book instructed me to. It's not my fault it was wrong."

Professor Colbert blinked. "Book? What book?"

"The beginner mages guide to familiars."

"The same book whose content in on magical beasts and animals?"

"Yes. I don't see where...you're...going..." Realization dawned on Louise. "Oh dear."

"Oh dear indeed Miss Vallière. Collin is a human. He has his own feeling and thoughts. In fact you probably ripped him away from his family and friends. And the first thing you try to do is whip him like some common dog?" Professor Colbert shook his head. "I expected better from you."

Louise desperately tried to defend herself. "But even then a commoner must listen to a noble!"

Colbert recognized denial when he saw it. "But Collin isn't from Halkeginia. He doesn't follow our rules."

He was right Louise realized in horror. "Oh no. Collin must be so mad at me." She buried her face in her hands. She had messed up royally.

Noticing her transition from using 'it' Colbert smiled, perhaps the situation could be still be salvaged.

"I've got something to do. Thank you so much professor!" Louise raced off to find Collin. She would swallow her pride and apologize.

Professor Colbert chuckled, stooping down to pick up his fallen materials. Ah the joys of youth. He picked up the sheet of paper on which he had copied the runes on Collin's hand. Frowning he tried to recall where he had seen them before and continued on his way to the library.

Xxxxxxxxxxxx

Collin was walking along one of the corridors with Siesta. Chatting and doing the laundry with her had been strangely enjoyable. And normal. If he didn't think too much about it it would seem like he was back on Earth. He had learnt a lot more about this world through their chats as well. The raven haired girl could sure talk non-stop if she wanted to.

"Hey!"

Spotting Louise running towards them he froze before giving her a cold stare. He had hoped to delay this confrontation longer. Sensing the sudden tension emanating from Collin Siesta promptly shut up.

Coming to a stop Louise panted, doubled over and resting her hands on her knees. She managed to wheeze out. "I need to speak with you."

"Later, I've got something else I need to do right now" Collin coldly replied and walked away, leaving a nervous Siesta glancing between master and familiar.

"Please Collin." Louise begged.

Hearing her use his name caused Collin to pause. And was that pleading he detected? He never imagined he would hear such a tone from the pinkette.

"Ermm Collin? Maybe you should hear her out?" Siesta nervously added, feeling bad for the little girl. Call it women's intuition but she knew Louise wasn't here to pick a fight.

"Fine. Siesta I'll meet up with you later." He said handing her the basket.

Nodding gratefully Siesta briskly departed, leaving them alone. She silently wished Collin the best. It wasn't good to ignore a noble after all, even one with a reputation such as Louise's.

"What do you want it?" If she tries to order me around again that's it. Contract or not I'm leaving. Collin folded his arms across his chest.

Louise took a deep breath and before her pride overrides her she blurted out. "I'm sorry."

Collin's jaw dropped open in shock. "What was that?"

"I'm sorry I treated you like a slave. It was wrong and should not have treated you as such. It's just that I was so happy at finally succeeding at magic and I wanted to make sure my familiar obeyed me. I didn't take into account your feelings. Will you please forgive me?" The words tumbled out of her mouth uncontrollably. Louise looked at her feet, wringing her hands, embarrassed at having revealed her insecurities but she figured that was the only way to convince Collin she was sincere in her apology.

Collin thought back to his chat with Siesta earlier. She's always picked on by the other students. They call her the zero. Collin sighed. He couldn't stay mad at her, not when she looked so miserable. "Apology accepted."

Louise looked up hopefully. "Really? So you'll still be my familiar?"

Turning and walking away Collin replied "I promised to be your partner didn't I? I intend to keep my word. Now I need to go and help siesta with the laundry."

"Partner eh?" She tested the word. I like that. She called out after him "I'll meet you for lunch at the courtyard."

Collin waved his hand in acceptance leaving Louise to grin to herself.

Xxxxxxxx

Louise weaved about the tables looking for Collin. Tables had been set out in the courtyard for lunch. The day of the void was for the mages to bond with their familiars weren't allowed in the dining hall. Where is he? He's late. She glanced about and saw her fellow students cheerfully interacting with their familiars, feeding them, scratching them and petting them. She got a weird image of Collin sitting on his haunches and letting her pet him. Shuddering at the thought she didn't look where she was walking and bumped into someone else. "Sorry." She apologised brushing her arm.

"Why Louise the Zero. I didn't expect you to still be in school. Haven't they expelled you for failing the summoning ritual?" An annoying voice drawled out.

Oh no. Not him again. Louise gritted her teeth and faced the speaker. Her voice dripped with venom. "Duccio." Duccio was a third year at Tristain Academy. He had taken exceptional pleasure in tormenting her after she had scorned his advances the previous year. "I actually succeeded in summoning a familiar in case you haven't heard."

"Oh that commoner? How much did you pay him to act as your familiar? Not enough apparently, it seems he has abandoned you." He said loudly causing the surrounding students to laugh along with him.

Furious, Louise grabbed a glass of champagne from a passing servant and splashed it all over Duccio. He sputtered in astonishment as the liquid flowed down the face soaking his robes making Louise snigger at the sight. That's what you get for pissing off a Vallière.

Her sniggering died when he pulled his wand out on her, eyes narrowed dangerously. "You shouldn't have done that Zero."

There was no time to defend herself, not that she could anyway. Louise closed her eyes for the inevitable blast of magic.

But it never came.

She felt a gust of wind as something darted past her followed by a strangled cry. Opening her eyes Louise saw Collin forcing Duccio on his knees, hand held against his back and wand lying uselessly on the floor.

Collin was pissed. He had watched everything from afar. He had noticed Duccio purposely moving to intercept Louise. When Louise poured champagne on Duccio he had laughed. You go girl. But the moment Duccio drew his wand Collin was off in an instant. He twisted Duccio's wrist forcing him to drop his wand. Kicking his leg from behind he forced Duccio on his knees.

"Are you alright Louise?" Collin asked.

"Y-yes. Thank you." Where did he come from?

"Release me filthy commoner. How dare you touch a noble." Duccio snarled from his position.

Collin didn't like him, not one bit. Exerting more force Collin made Duccio howl in pain. "Noble schmoble. I don't care who you are. If you want to hurt Louise you go through me."

"Louise! You know who my father is. Wait till he hears about this." Duccio changed targets.

"Let him go Collin." Louise said after a moment's hesitation. "He's not worth it."

"But-"

"Let him go." As much as she appreciated his actions she didn't want to create any trouble. The Gramonts held considerable power over the military.

Snarling in disgust Collin released Duccio who immediately grabbed his wand and sprung up.

"I will not settle for this humiliation commoner. I challenge you to a duel." With his wand in his hand he promptly returned to his arrogant self.

The students who had gathered to watch the spectacle gasped.

"You can't be serious Duccio. It's against the school rules." Louise said narrowing her eyes.

"Only between mages. There is no rule against a noble duelling a commoner. Besides," Duccio pointed his wand at Collin with a flourish. "A noble must defend his honour.

"Only because-"

"I accept." Collin announced. He had noticed his increased abilities, attributing them to some strange magic. Though he hadn't tested them out he was confident of beating up a pansy boy.

Duccio smirked. "I shall meet you at Vestri Court in ten minutes. Prepare yourself." He walked off leading his group of followers away.

"What do you think you're doing?" Louise hissed at him. Few commoners had taken on nobles and won in a fairy duel. There was a reason the nobles were the ruling class after all.

Collin was genuinely surprised. "Defending you. Isn't that what I'm supposed to do?"

"Yes and I'm very grateful that you stepped in to help me. But how could you accept a duel with Duccio. He is a mage. There's no way a commoner can beat a mage. By accepting the duel he can kill you without any repercussions." After all that trouble to make up he was going to die here.

"Have more faith in me Louise. Besides what's done is done. I promised that I'll be your partner. I don't intend to go dying anytime soon." Collin reassured her. "Now where is this Vestri Court?"

Louise was not reassured in the slightest. Didn't he know what nobles could do? Seeing that she couldn't persuade her pig-headed partner to change his mind she gave him the directions.

Xxxxxxxxx

The students had formed a ring of observers around the court at a respectable distance giving the combatants a large open space to duel. Collin stood at one end stretching while Duccio stood at the other, wand lazily held in hand.

"Well I must say I'm surprised you didn't run off commoner. Does Louise really pay that well? Or does she pay with something else hmm?" Duccio raised an eyebrow suggestively while the surrounding students sniggered.

Collins eyes narrowed but didn't reply. He wouldn't give that asshole the satisfaction of getting under his skin. He cast a look about the watching students and saw a few familiar faces. There was Louise looking beet red at the last remark, there was also the red head and bluenette he met the day before. He spied Siesta in the back looking like she was about to be sick. He flashed her reassuring smile which caused the students to cheer at his apparent confidence.

"Now then shall we begin?" Duccio commented, raising his wand.

"Anytime douche-io."

Ignoring the obvious play on his name Duccio formally introduced himself. "My name is Duccio de Gramont of the famous Gramont family. My runic name is Duccio of the Metal Knights." Chanting a strange spell a suit of iron armour rose from the ground. "This knight shall be your opponent."

Collin watched the magic at work in interest. The knight had been constructed out of either nothing or the dirt. It looked like the medieval suits of armour found in museums. The knight charged at Collin and aimed a vicious right hook at his head. Raising his arm Collin blocked the attack with one hand. The students gasped as the attack that should have broken bone was stopped almost effortlessly. Just as I thought, my strength has increased. Using his free hand he caved in the chest piece of the knight causing it to crumple to the ground in a clanging of metal. Even Duccio seemed shocked.

"Is that the best you can do?" Collin taunted, tossing the severed arm away casually.

Waving his wand three more times Duccio summoned three more knights, holding a mace, spear and sword respectively. "I'm just getting warmed up."

The knights charged forward swinging their weapons and Collin backtracked, dodging the attacks easily. It seems my speed has improved as well. But I don't want to test is my durability just yet. Better stay away from those nasty looking weapons. The knights moved in unison, pushing him back. He cursed. They were covering each other's openings, preventing Collin from getting any hits in without being hit himself. Noting the look of concentration on Duccio's face Collin came up with a plan. They're all controlled by the same guy after all. Hmm maybe I can take advantage of that.

"Hey Duccio! Are you so scared of me that you let your puppets do all the work for you?"

"Why you insolent little-"

Taking advantage of his momentary distraction Collin sprinted forward; ducking under the suddenly clumsy swing of the first knight, Collin rammed a fist into its helmet. Ripping off its arm he used it to block the mace that the second knight was bringing down on him. The metal crumpled underneath the blow. Wincing as he pictured that happening to his arm he quickly brought down the knight with a quick uppercut.

"Behind you!" He heard someone yell out.

Turning around Collin narrowly managed to avoid the spear thrusting towards his chest. Snarling, Collin delivered a drop kick that sent the final suit crashing onto the floor. The students were cheering loudly for Collin. Commoner or not that was the most impressive thing they had seen.

Duccio was panicking. What was this commoner? If he got beaten it would be a disgrace to his family name. He began tracing his wand in abstract movements, chanting a complex spell.

"No don't do it cousin!" A blonde second year called from the side-lines, the first two buttons of his shirt were undone and he brandished a rose stalk. "That's a triangle class spell. You'll kill yourself."

Duccio ignored him and finished his incantation.

A giant steel knight rose from the ground, 3 times the size of a normal man. The students went silent. Apparently this was some impressive magic. Its appearance was less refined than the previous ones but what it lacked in elegance it made up for in the intimidation factor.

Collin went on the offensive this time, hoping to catch Duccio by surprise. He closed the distance in the heartbeat and aimed a high kick right at the centre of mass of the knight. To his horror the knight responded with inhuman speed and slammed an armoured fist into him sending him right into the ground. He swore he heard his ribs crack.

ARGH that hurts! Collin gasped in pain, he tried to get back up only to be stomped on by the behemoth, and he felt bones crack and blood spurt. He faintly heard girls screaming in the background at the sheer brutality. Finally the knight sent him flying with a kick.

Collin landed on the pile of broken armour he had caused moments ago, each piece sent a wave of pain through him. He was on the verge of passing out. I'm not going down. Not like this. Collin thought through the haze of pain. He reached for something, anything to help him remain conscious.

His hand closed around a handle.

Xxxxxxxxxxxx

Louise had been amazed by Collin's show of strength as he easily dispatched the first golem. Her awe grew at his speed and strength as he tore through the next three Duccio summoned. She felt her chest swell in pride at her familiar's ability.

However awe turned to horror Duccio succeeded at summoning a golem. The behemoth proceeded to pummel Collin into the ground. The sounds of bones cracking was clearly audible over the deathly silence that had settled over the field. The behemoth then kicked Collin into the pile of armour.

Duccio was kneeling on the ground. Faint and panting, clear signs of willpower depletion. The triangle class spell was just within his capabilities. Smiling at his success he forced himself to stand up. Waving his wand once more he summoned a sword for his knight. "Finish him." The knight picked up the massive sword and stomped over to Collin.

"No!" Louise cried dashing onto the field right into its path. "You've won Duccio. There's no need to kill him."

"Oh but there's where you're wrong zero. He humiliated me. I have to kill him." Duccio gave a cruel smile. "Get out of the way or you can join your familiar."

Louise stood her ground, wand drawn but her hands were shaking. Then she heard a voice she didn't expect to hear rasp out "Get out of the way Louise."

She turned around and was greeted by an amazing sight. Collin was standing up, mace in one hand. Despite being covered in his blood he stood there as if nothing had happened, weapon at the ready. Seeing him recover the students cheered loudly, rooting for the underdog. Louise immediately cleared his path as she noted the death glare in his eyes. She did not want to get between him and Duccio.

When he had gripped the mace Collin felt his left hand tingle, right where the runes were. He felt stronger and lighter and his pain was washed away. With a battle cry he charged the steel golem. It raised its sword to block the attack. As he neared it something in him told him to raise the mace a little hit higher and hit the chest piece in the upper left corner.

Mustering all his strength and speed he swung the mace. Metal hit metal and the sword snapped in half, barely slowing down the mace. It connected with the sweet spot on the knight.

It didn't just crumple. It didn't just cave in.

The suit of metal shattered under the impact, the stressed metal screeching and sending steel pieces flying. The force was so great that the mace itself broke under the strain, snapping at the handle with a loud crack.

Collin felt the enhanced strength leave him but the pain didn't return. He continued his charge aiming for Duccio. Duccio paled. "I yield-"

Collins fist connected with Duccio's chest and he felt ribs crack under his punch. Something inside him growled in pleasure at the sensation. Duccio was sent flying into the nearby wall. Before he could even slide down Collin had him by the neck, pinning him against the wall. He rammed another fist into Duccio's gut causing Duccio to spit out blood.

"Please. Have Mercy." Duccio managed to cough out.

At the smell of blood Collin lost control of himself. He merely smiled at Duccio's pleas for his life as he continued to unmercifully break every bone in his body. Somewhere in the back of his mind, what was left of Collin yelled STOP!

xxxxxxxxx

Just when Louise didn't think her familiar could amaze her anymore he proved her wrong. With unnatural strength he shattered the golem, sending students scurrying away as they avoided the debris.

The next moment Collin had Duccio by the throat causing the students to cheer. He had won. However cheers turned to screams of horror as Collin didn't stop there. They could hear Duccio's pathetic cries as Collin slowly crippled him. "Stop! You've won! You don't have to fight anymore!" Louise screamed at him. If he heard her he didn't acknowledge it, the sickening crunch of broken bones his only response.

"Someone get the teachers!"

"I think I'm going to be sick!"

"What is that commoner!"

"It's a monster!"

"Louise!" Someone spun her around. It was Kirche. "You've got to stop him."

"Why me?" Louise wailed.

"Because you're his master and he's your responsibility!"

"But how?"

"I don't know knock him out or something."

Louise didn't know what to do. If a third year triangle Mage couldn't stop Collin. How could she. She couldn't cast any spells. All she could cast were explosions. Wait a minute. Explosions.

Drawing her wand she pointed at Collin. Praying she wouldn't kill him she shouted "Fireball!"

An explosion erupted directly on Collins back. When the smoke cleared Collin toppled backwards unconscious, allowing Duccio to slide to the ground in a crumpled bloody heap.

I did it!

Her mental celebration was cut short as the school nurse and several teachers finally arrived on scene. Levitating the two unconscious bodies the nurse immediately headed for the infirmary. Louise made to go after them but she was stopped by the second year wind teacher, Professor Archambault. "I'm afraid you're going to have to stay here for a while Miss Vallière while we figure out what happened."

"But my familiar-"

"Madam Pomfrey is quite capable in handling it herself."

Just then he was bowled over by a red salamander.

"Oh my I'm terribly sorry professor. Flame got a little excited after everything that happened" Louise turned to see Kirche and Tabitha standing there. Kirche shot her look, mouthing: go.

Thank you Louise mouthed back, running towards the infirmary.

Xxxxxxxxxx

"Gandalfr you say?" The school headmaster Old Osmond said, more of a statement than a question.

"Yes headmaster. The runes were an exact match and what we just witnessed confirms it. The Gandalfr was said to be able to take on armies by himself." Professor Colbert excitedly said, drying his forehead with a handkerchief.

The professor had been discussing Louise familiar and the discovery he had made in the library with the headmaster when the fight started. Using the headmaster's enchanted crystal ball they witnessed the entire fight.

"Hmmm I suppose you're right. Keep this to yourself for now."

"Sir? The palace needs to know! A Gandalfr in the modern world! That also means Miss Vallière is -"

"No!" The headmaster said sharply causing Colbert to take a step back. "The political ramifications would be enormous. I also have no wish to thrust Miss Vallière and her familiar into such a situation. They're not ready."

"Of course headmaster, I was too excited." Colbert sheepishly admitted.

"No need to apologise Jean, that's what I like about you anyway." Old Osmond waved off the unnecessary apology. "Also...keep an eye on Collin. Make sure he's not a threat to the students."

"Sir?"

"He did just nearly kill one of the students."

"Ah yes. Of course sir."

"You're dismissed."

As Colbert left his office Old Osmond returned his gaze to the crystal ball. Watching the unconscious figure of Collin he stroked his beard, muttering "What are you?"

Xxxxxxxxxxx

High above Vestri Court a crow circled. A passing eagle made the unwise decision to attack this particular bird. As it dove in for its attack the crow easily swatted the eagle out of the sky with a flick of its wings and returned to observing the students...

A/N

Hey guys. Thanks for reading up to this point. Any feedback on my writing is much appreciated and will help me improve the quality of my writing (in theory). I'm afraid that I'm going to have to slow down on my updates. Writing these three chapters has burned up much of my free time in the past week and I'll have to scale down my updates to ensure my schoolwork is up to date. Make sure to follow this story so you'll be updated when I upload the next chapter.

I hope you guys enjoyed the beat down Collin put on Duccio. In this chapter we see Collin experiencing his enhanced strength and regenerative abilities as well as his Gandalfr powers. Some of you might feel that I am under powering him but I have a reason for that which will be revealed as the story goes on. We got a glimpse of Collin's infected side as well.

When I first watched familiar of zero and saw how Louise treated Saito I was wondering if she had learnt everything from a dog training manual so I decided to put it in. Gives me an excuse to change Louise actions in future as well.

To the reviewers:

Necrofantasia: It's not my intention to turn Collin into a Saito-clone, I'll be trying to make Collin into his own character. Some characteristic might be similar but that will be coincidental. I've also read so many fanficts that I've forgotten what he's really like lol.

Haziq47: As I mentioned earlier in the A/N there is a reason for that which will be revealed as the story goes on.

Guest: Thanks bro. Are you the same person as the first reviewer?

Wqs: Maybe :P

KO: I won't say anything about your deductions :P As for his powers I haven't decided on what he'll have. I'd be happy to take any suggestions for new powers as well!

As always thanks for reading and please leave a review.