Disclaimer: I do not own Prototype or Familiar of Zero
Infection in Halkeginia
Opening your eyes
Collin jumped from roof to roof across the infected streets of New York. He had gotten used to the dreamscape ever since his first visit. No matter what he did the landscape stayed the same night after night.
Gathering his strength he leapt across the open expanse towards the Empire State Building. As he covered the vacant space he looked down towards the streets. The infected were mindlessly wandering around. Without food they had nothing to chase. They looked so...peaceful. He grunted as smashed into the side of the building, digging his hands and feet into the side of the building he held on.
Taking a deep breath he sprinted up the Empire State Building, enjoying the rush of the wind and feeling of crushing concrete and metal beneath his feet. Reaching the top he vaulted over the ledge and landed on the roof with a thud. He turned to look at the sun set in the distance. There wasn't really much to do.
He sat down on an air conditioning unit with a sigh. So much had happened in the past few days. Not only had he been transported to another world where magic existed, but he had been infected. What puzzled him the most why he hadn't been reduced to a snarling zombie craving for human flesh. Instead the virus was strengthening him, healing him, turning him into Mercer.
"Penny for your thoughts kid?"
Collin turned his head sharply to see the subject of his thougts standing beside him watching the sunset. Collin narrowed his eyes; the infected had not appeared since his first visit to dream New York.
"Where have you been?"
"Around." The infected replied unhelpfully.
"Why haven't I seen you."
The infected ignored his question. "You know, there's a much easier way to become stronger."
"Which is?" The infected was in him after all, it was no surprise it knew what he was doing in real life.
Mercer turned to face him. Cold blue eyes peered out from under a black hood, boring into Collins. "Consume."
"Excuse me?"
"Consume. Eat. Devour. Take your pick. Basically by doing so you not only increase your base strength but gain their abilities and memories." Mercer smiled cruelly.
Collins fists shook as he clenched them by his side. The very idea was disgusting; to eat another person filled him with revulsion. He growled out. "No. I refuse to become a monster. To become like you."
Shrugging nonchalantly Mercer turned back to face the sunset. "Suit yourself. But whether you like it or not you have to face the fact that you are infected, and nothing you do will change that."
We'll see about that.
xxxxxxxxxx
Collin woke with a start. Those dreams always ended so abruptly. Rubbing his face to rid himself of the last dregs of sleep he looked out the open window of Louise's room. The sun had yet to rise though the red glow was just visible in the horizon. Getting up from the simple bed Louise prepared for him he shuffled over to the wardrobe and pulled out a fresh set of clothes.
It had been two days since his run in with Frederico de Gramont.
"Sleep well partner?" Derf asked from the corner where he rested.
"The usual. Though this time I heard something I'd rather forget." Collin changed out of his night robes and pulled on a fresh shirt and a pair of pants. He pushed the thoughts of devouring people out of his mind.
"Want to talk about it?" Derf chortled. "Although my dreams are always about the ladies. Why just last night this sabre tried to-"
"No I think I'm good." Collin grimaced; he didn't need to hear about another of Derf's 'conquests'. How the talking sword could even dream was beyond his understanding.
Slinging Derf across his back he reached for the door. Pausing he looked back at Louise's sleeping form. She lay on her back, pink hair splayed around her. Her arm rested across her chest and her expression was peaceful. Collin couldn't help but think how cute she looked.
"Admiring the view? Well I can't say I know human tastes very well but isn't she a little flat?" Derf commented from his back.
Embarrassed at being caught staring Collin quickly exited the room. "Shut up Derf." Collin shoved Derf into his scabbard where it continued chuckling to itself, the vibrations running up his spine.
He walked down the corridor in silence. He regretted not spending more time with Louise but he wanted to be prepared. He didn't want to be at the mercy of another mage who might not be as merciful as Frederico.
Collin heard voices coming from the corridor ahead. Strange, there was usually no one up at this unearthly hour. Sticking close to the wall he hid just behind the doorway leading to the next corridor. He saw a first year female and a second year male student sitting inappropriately close together on the fountain, talking quietly.
"I'm good at making soufflés."
"I'd love to have a taste of that."
"Really?"
"Of course, I'd never lie to you Katie."
Ah a secret rendezvous. Collin smiled as he remembered his own romantic experiences in high school. There was no need to disturb the couple. He tried to sneak past them but the boy noticed him.
"Who goes there?" The boy challenged, brandishing a rose, attempted to look fierce in front of his girl.
Collin grinned; apparently the boy couldn't recognise him in his new clothes. Turning around he took in the boy's blonde hair, unbuttoned shirt and brandished rose-wand. He found a name to place to that face. Guiche de Gramont the Bronze, cousin to both Duccio and Frederico. He seemed to be having brush-ins with the Gramonts way too often. "Just me, Collin" He smiled innocently knowing Guiche would misinterpret that smile.
Guiche's eyes widened and his wand arm trembled. Katie shrunk behind Guiche, fear in her eyes. "W-what are you doing here? If it's about what Frederico did I had nothing to do with it!"
Collin raised an eyebrow. "Peace. I'm just passing through if you must know." He made to continue on his way. "Oh and I would suggest a better meeting place in future. Perhaps somewhere more secluded like the roof?"
Collin struggled to hold in his laughter as he heard an embarrassed Katie excuse herself and rush into her room, leaving a stunned Guiche standing alone in the middle of the girl's dormitory, shocked at the sudden turn of events. Collin left quickly before Guiche could start anything else. At this rate he was going to get into a fight with the entire Gramont family.
Exiting the tower he made his way to the school gate. He waved a greeting to the guard on duty who waved back and opened the gate for him. The guard was only too happy to help. Ever since the fight between him and Duccio the school staff had taken to treating him like a hero. Marteau had even given him the honorary title of "Our Fist".
He headed into the forest next to the academy. Pavement gave way to grass and smell of dew and the forest filled his nose. Birds chirped noisily and insects screamed their mating calls. Honestly if it weren't for the red and green moons hanging lazily in the sky he wouldn't even know he was on a different world.
As he entered the forest the trees grew taller and more spaced apart. Once he was in deep enough he drew Derflinger. Feeling the familiar power flow through him, he closed his eyes and listened to the whisperings in his mind.
xxxxxxxxxx
"Miss Vallière is my class that boring that you must fall asleep?" A sharp comment followed by a strong gust of wind woke Louise with a start.
"I'm awake!" Louise exclaimed jumping to her feet only to be laughed at by her classmates. The second year wind teacher stared at her in irritation. Professor Kaita, also known as Kaita the Gust was easy to anger. "Sorry Professor Kaita. It won't happen again."
"Humph"
Sitting back down Louise rubbed her eyes and smoothed her messy hair. Ever since Collin planted the idea of her being a void mage in her head she had taken to reading as many books on Brimir as she could find. There were dozens of books on the legendary founder, describing his rise and salvation of humanity and vague descriptions of his amazing feats of magic, but in not a single one was there a hint of a spell. Even with Tabitha's help she wasn't any closer to finding void spells she could experiment with.
Speaking of Collin, he had been noticeably absent for the last six days. He would go out early in the morning before she got up and come back late at night tired, sleeping immediately.
Satisfied that he had everyone's attention Kaita continued. "Do you know what the most powerful element is, Zerbst?"
"Isn't that the 'Void' element?"
"I'm not asking for something of legends. I want something realistic."
Louise bristled at that, what he said bordered on heresy. The founder had used void magic to protect them all from the elves and denying its existence was tantamount to denying the existence of Brimir himself! Not to mention it was her small hope of salvation as a noble. Though her overwhelming success at summoning a strong familiar had deterred any taunts of her inability to perform magic, she knew it was only a matter of time before it all began anew.
Kirche then confidently answered, "Then it has to be the fire element, Professor Kaita," along with her irresistible smile.
"Oh? Why do you think that?"
"Heat and passion can burn anything and everything, isn't that so?"
"I'm afraid that is not so." Kaita said as he pulled out his wand from his waist. "Let's give that a try. Attack me with your best fire elemental attack."
Kirche stood still in surprise. What is this teacher doing?
"What is it? I recall that you work best with fire elemental spells, am I right?" Kaita challenged.
"It won't be a simple scald." Kirche winked.
"No problem. Give me your best shot. Don't tell me the flaming red hair of the Zerbst family is there just for looks?"
Kirche's usual brisk smile disappeared. She retrieved her wand from her cleavage, her fiery, crimson long hair stood on their ends and crackled as if flames were erupting from them. She waved her wand, and from her extended right hand appeared a small fireball. As Kirche chanted her spell, the fireball expanded, resulting in a huge flaming sphere of a meter in diameter. The students ducked under their desks in panic. Her wrist turned and spiralled towards her chest, and released the fireball.
Kaita made no attempt to dodge the giant sphere of fire heading towards him. He raised his wand, and made sweeping waves as if swinging a sword. A raging gale suddenly began, and instantly scattered the huge fireball. It even knocked down Kirche, who was standing on the far other side of the room. Stationery and books scattered about the classroom
"Everyone, I now tell you why the wind element is the strongest. It is quite easy. Wind can sweep up everything. Fire, water, and dirt alike cannot find footing when faced against strong enough winds." Kaita briskly announced. "Unfortunately, reality does not let me experiment this, but even Void would probably not stand. That is the wind element."
Kirche stood, displeased, and locked her arms. Kaita paid her no attention, and continued. "The unseen wind shall be the shield that protects everyone, and if needed, the lance that scatters enemies. And one more reason that wind is the most powerful is..." He raised his wand, "YOBIKISUTA DERU WIND..." as he chanted his spell.
However, at this very moment, the door to the classroom opened, and a nervous Colbert entered. He dressed strangely, a huge, golden wig over his head. On closer examination, his suit had the most intricate borders and decorations.
"Professor Colbert?" Kaita raised a brow.
"Ahhh! I'm sorry; please excuse the intrusion, Professor Kaita."
"Class is in session." Kaita tersely replied, staring at Colbert.
"Today's classes are henceforth cancelled." Colbert sternly announced. Cheers emanated from the classroom. To stop them, Colbert waved with both arms, and continued. "I have something to tell everyone." Colbert exaggeratedly tilted his head back, causing his wig to slide off to the ground. The tense mood Kaita built suddenly collapsed, as laughter enveloped the classroom. "As you all know tomorrow is the familiar fair."
The students fell silent and looked at each other warily. The familiar fair was an annual event for second years to show off their newly obtained familiars. They had been preparing their performances over the past few days in order to win. This was another reason why Louise was worried over Collin's absence; she had not been able to inform him of the familiar fair. besides he probably wouldn't want to be shown off like some pet. She sighed to herself. She resigned herself to sitting this event out.
"This year the princess herself had decided to grace us with her presence. Therefore, we must not allow any slack. As this is very sudden news, we have begun preparations to receive her to the best of our abilities."
Everyone was so engrossed in the information that no one noticed Louise gasping and covering her mouth.
"Due to this, today's classes are hereby cancelled. All students, please put on your formal wear, and assemble at the main entrance." The students anxiously nodded in unison. Colbert nodded in return, and loudly announced, "This is an excellent opportunity to let Her Majesty the Princess know that everyone has matured as model nobles. Everyone must prepare to their best to let Her Majesty witness this fact! Dismissed!"
Upon hearing that Princess Henrietta herself would be attending the familiar fair the students broke out into excited chatter. This was an excellent opportunity for them to gain royal favour should they catch her eyes. The students rushed out of the classrooms to return to their rehearsals with renewed enthusiasm. Louise on the other hand slowly gathered her books. She was nervous but for an entirely different reason.
"Why so glum Louise?" Kirche asked leaning onto her desk. "I haven't seen Collin around; do you have him preparing some special performance?"
"Can it Zerbst, it's none of your business. And get those away from me." She pointed to Kirche's cleavage spilling onto her desk.
"Humph there's no need to be so cold." Kirche straightened and placed her hands on her hips. "Unless... He's not taking part?"
Louise ignored her and slung her book bag over her shoulder.
"Aha! Excellent! Without Collin taking part I could stand a chance!" Kirche clapped her hands. "Although...I wonder what the princess will think of you hmm? A mage that can't control her familiar perhaps?"
Louise strode out of the classroom, outwardly calm. But inside she was fuming, she wanted to punch Kirche so bad but more importantly...
Where was that damn Collin!
Xxxxxxxx
The students milled about in the main courtyard, a sea of purple, brown and white. They stood at the sides of the main pathway leading from the castle entrance to the main academy building. The students chattered excitedly.
"Did you hear? The princess is coming!"
"So that's what this is all about."
"I heard she's really beautiful."
"I wonder if she's going to give a special prize for the familiar fair."
Louise stood alone in the crowd. Her hair was flustered and her clothes crumpled after spending a good two hours combing the entire academy for Collin, but he was nowhere to be found. Not even Siesta knew where he was.
"Louise!" Kirche saw her and waved. "Still can't find Collin?"
"No." Louise heatedly cursed. "I can't believe he isn't here to receive the princess. It's an honour to do so and he's being so disrespectful."
"Bah you're exaggerating. Besides I bet I'm much better looking than her. He's not missing much." Kirche tossed her hair arrogantly.
"Hey have you girls seen Guiche?" Montmorency ran over to them panting heavily. "I've been searching all over for him."
"What? How would we know? He's always glued to you."
"I haven't seen him since yesterday and-"
A horn blared from the front gate signalling the arrival of the princess. The students immediately went silent and stood at attention. Louise frantically tried to make herself look presentable.
Four golden-helmeted stallions led a carriage quietly on the road to the Magic Academy. The carriage was exquisitely adorned with gold, silver, and platinum sculptures of the Royal Seals. On one of those, a unicorn crossed with a crystal staff signalled that this carriage belongs to Her Majesty the Princess. The carriage was pulled by 4 pure white unicorns, fitting for the only heir to the throne of Tristain.
The carriage was flanked on both sides by fearsome warhorses. The riders themselves were a sight to behold. Intimidating looking men and women dressed in green robes with a white cape adorned with a musket as a crest. The princess's personal guard, the Tristain Musketeers.
As the carriage passed the assembled students they raised their wands in honour of the princess. Finally the carriage arrived at the steps to the academy. The leader of the Musketeers, Agnes, helped Henrietta out of the carriage. She was dressed in the finest clothes and a regal purple cape fixed by an emerald brooch; a beautiful tiara adorned her purple hair. The students took in a collective breath as they admired her beauty.
Old Osmond stood there waiting to receive the princess. He spread his arms in welcome. "I speak for the whole school and myself when I say that it is an honour that you have graced us with your presence."
"Thank you." Henrietta smiled in response "It is my honour to be here. At the academy that has and will continue to produce the nobles of Tristain."
As if a switch had been flipped the students broke out into thunderous applause and cheers. Henrietta smiled and waved, causing the students to double their volume.
"Your highness may I inquire as to why you decided to come?" Professor Colbert spoke up from Osmond's side.
"A personal reason." The princess answered with a smile, struggling not to laugh at his ridiculous fashion.
Colbert outwardly nodded. He had has his suspicions though he didn't voice them. Had she heard about Louise?
"So that's the Trysting princess? I'm better looking than her." Kirche commented.
Louise ignored her, eyes fixed on the princess. She's changed so much since she last saw her. I wonder if she still remembers me?
Xxxxxxxx
The sound of metal clashing on metal filled the silent forest.
Guiche knelt on the ground panting in exhaustion. A battered brass helmet bounced into his field of vision. Looking at the beheaded Valkyrie he surrendered "I yield."
Collin walked over, Derflinger in hand. "Giving up so soon?"
As he neared Guiche the smell of fresh blood filled his nostrils. He felt something stir within him, it hungered... it would be so easy to eat him now...no one would know...
With tremendous willpower Collin quelled the nauseating hunger. Reaching out with his free hand he helped Guiche to his feet. "You put up an impressive fight."
Guiche gave a tired smile "Thanks. Though I'm surprised Frederico managed to beat you since you trashed me so easily."
"I've improved a lot the past few days." Noticing that Guiche was unsteady on his feet he asked "Are you alright?"
Guiche waved off his concern "It's just willpower depletion. I need a breather. Got a little scape too."
Nodding his agreement Collin laid out a mat and brought out the meat and bread Marteau was only too happy to give to him. Guiche groaned at the peasant's meal, it was nothing compared to the feast he could be having for dinner at the dining hall but he chose to keep his complaints to himself. Collin passed him some water to wash his cut.
"Thanks for agreeing to train with me today." Collin said between bites of bread.
Guiche laughed bitterly. "We'll it's not like I had much of a choice."
"Oh right." Collin laughed sheepishly. "Sorry about that."
Just the day before Collin had walked in on Guiche and another girl, Montmorency on the roof of the girls' dormitory, it seemed he had taken his advice to heart. Seizing the opportunity later that day Collin had approached Guiche and blackmailed him into spend the day training with him or else he would expose his two timing.
They ate in awkward silence for a while.
"Why did you do it?"
"Excuse me?"
"Why two time? Does it give you a thrill?" Collin asked emotionlessly.
"I don't have to answer to you!" Guiche declared. "What would a commoner know about love?"
"Maybe You're right." Collin sighed. "But let me tell you a story. Two years back I had a girlfriend. A nice sweet girl who never asked me for anything who never demanded anything. And do you know what I did? I broke her heart. Shattered it into a million pieces." Collin stared at the bread in his hands like it was his worst enemy. "That's why I'll warn you now. I don't know who you love or if you even love either of them. But you better make up your mind before someone gets hurt."
Guiche bristled at his words. How dare a commoner lecture a noble on love. He was about to give a long retort on how commoners should know their place when he noticed Collin had his sword drawn. He gulped.
"Come on you've had enough rest."
Groaning Guiche got to his feet, raising his rose wand he dropped 4 petals which swiftly turned into bronze Valkyries. They encircled Collin who stood at the ready.
Collin held Derflinger confidently. After his meditations and training, as the patches of bare forest would attest to, he had gotten used to the sword and now the movements flowed to him naturally.
"Nice job on giving love advice partner. Didn't know you had it in you."
"I have my moments" Collin shifted Derflinger from one hand to the other, watching the Valkyries.
"You know what I-watch out!"
Guiche smiled to himself, he was going to teach Collin a lesson. Muttering an incantation he sent a stream of dust right at Collins face. As Collin cursed and sputtered trying to clear his vision he ordered his Valkyries to attack.
Xxxxxxxx
Louis sat at her dresser brushing her mane of pink hair thoughtlessly. She mulled over the day's events. She had finally seen her old childhood friend after 6 long years but Henrietta didn't show any signs of looking for her. She sighed to herself, it was probably wishful thinking on her part that the princess had come to see her. But Louise had resolved to impress Henrietta at the familiar fair and for that very reason she was staying up late waiting for Collin to return. It was well past midnight and her patience was getting thin.
She grabbed her book bag and dumped the contents on her table. She figured she might as well get started on some schoolwork. She spotted an unfamiliar book in the pile. Picking it up she frowned. The story of Brimir and his companions. She didn't recognize the cover or title. She noticed the red sticker on the side of the book. This was from the teachers' restricted section! How did it get into her bag?
Intrigued she sat down at the table and opened the book. There was page folded and she turned to it. A paragraph was marked out.
"Nearing the end of the Great War between elves and humans the void mage Brimir led his followers and the human army in a campaign to retake their homeland. During the battle to retake the once human capital Illidien Brimir single handedly brought down the walls protecting the city which even elves had not succeeded in doing with his spell Explosion allowing the human mages to take the occupying elves by surprise... "
Louise's heart rate sped up as she read. She quickly scanned the page for any other information on the spell Brimir used. This was the most direct reference to Brimir's spells she had found.
There was a light knock at the door. Louise paused for a moment torn between continuing reading or scolding Collin. Louise rushed from where she was seated and threw the door open.
"Where have you been! I've been looking everywhere for you! Do you know what day it is tom- oh" Louise paused in her tirade and she took in the hooded stranger at her door.
The stranger recovered her shock and quickly pushed Louise inside, locking the door she waved a wand and a strange muffled silence surrounded the room.
"A silencing spell? Who are you?" Louise asked cautiously, reaching for her own wand.
Throwing back her hood the stranger exclaimed "Louise Francois! Don't you recognise me?" Before embracing Louise in a bear hug.
"P-princess Henrietta!" Louise sputtered in astonishment as purple hair tickled her nose. The princess wore nondescript clothing and was without her tiara.
"Oh I'm so glad you remember me. It's been far too long my dear Louise."
Quickly pushing Henrietta away Louise knelt down before her. "Your highness you should not be in such a low class place as this."
"Please skip the formality Louise. We're friends." Henrietta helped Louise up.
"You flatter me with your kind words but-"
Henrietta stared at her sternly. "Remember when we were 6? When we were chasing butterflies at the palace? You promised that you would like me for being me."
Louise looked down sheepishly "Yes prin- I mean Henrietta."
Henrietta smiled at that "Thank you Louise. You don't know how much that means to me, I have far too few people I can call friends nowadays. You've grown so much since I last saw you." She hugged Louise tightly.
"So have you." Louise wheezed out, trying to ignore the mounds pressed against her. It was so unfair!
Now tell me what you've been up to these past few years."
Sitting down on Louise's bed they chatted about their lives ever since they had separated due to the princesses duties requiring more and more of Henrietta's limited free time. Henrietta talked about her various experiences in the royal court, about her father's death and mother's subsequent withdrawal from the court and how Henrietta had taken over her mother's duties. Louise talked about her various failures at magic, her first year at the academy, culminating with her recent familiar summoning.
"My my Louise, you never fail to deliver spectacularly do you?" Henrietta teased her.
Defending herself from Louise's playful slaps she asked. "Where is your familiar by the way? I wanted to meet him as well. I heard he's human."
Louise looked away, wondering how much she could tell Henrietta. "Collin is... Not an average familiar or commoner. He has... expressed his intention to retain his own freedom and choices and has shown that he does not care for our nobility system in more ways than one."
"Ah yes. His duel with Duccio de Gramont. He caused quite a stir at the palace with that stunt, a commoner beating a noble to the brink of death." Seeing Louise's worried expressing she quickly reassured her friend. "But it's settled, I saw to it myself."
"Thank you." Louise placed her hand on Henrietta's.
"I promised to help you whenever you were in need did I not? The nobles will not be taking any action."
Louise blinked in surprise. "But they did! Frederico de Gramont assaulted Collin a week ago in revenge."
"What happened then?" Henrietta frowned; this piece of news had managed to escape her grasp.
"Collin was defeated although he put up a good fight." Louise said proudly. "He's been training ever since, that's why I mistook you for him. He usually comes back late and I haven't gotten a chance to inform him of the familiar fair."
Henrietta felt uneasy at the information. Though the knowledge that Collin could be beaten eased her worries, the fact that he was training so intensively was likely to take revenge. If he did she wouldn't be able to protect him again, and since he was Louise's familiar she would be implicated as well.
"Henrietta?" Louise asked, noticing her sudden silence.
"Oh it's nothing, it's getting late and I should be going." Standing up she drew her hood over her head. "This was the most fun I've had these past few years, thank you for still being my friend."
"The pleasure has been mine." Louise bowed in acknowledgment and saw Henrietta to the door.
"Good luck tomorrow." Releasing her spell Henrietta slipped out and into the night.
Xxxxxxx
Collin trudged back to the girls' dormitory. He rubbed his eyes; he swore that there was still sand in them from Guiche's attack. He had just finished dragging Guiche unconscious body back to his bedroom; he had been completely exhausted by their exertions earlier. Collin looked forward to his own bed, although the infection gave him much more endurance and his recovery speed was excellent it seemed his body still required tired and required sleep.
He took a swig from the water skin he held, in it was great tasting drink Marteau brewed from his own secret recipe. He gasped from the refreshing tingle it sent down his throat. Just he stepped through the threshold into the girl dormitory he collided head on into a hooded stranger running the opposite direction, Collin involuntarily squeezed the water skin sending purple liquid squirting over the strangers clothes.
"Oh my god I'm so sorry. Are you right?" Collin quickly helped the stranger to her feet, as he did so her hood fell off. Wow she's pretty.
"I'm quite alright. It was my fault anyway." She tried to brush the liquid off her clothes but the drink had stained the cloth.
"If you'd like I could help you wash it right now? It's best to remove the as quickly as possible." Collin offered.
Looking up Henrietta took in his face. Recognition seemed to flitter over it but it was gone as quickly as it appeared. "I would be very grateful."
Nodding Collin led her over to the washing fountain. Grabbing a bar of soap and a wash rack he set to work scrubbing the stain out of Henrietta's cloak. Henrietta took a seat by him and watched him work.
"I haven't seen you around here before. Are you a visitor?" Collin asked striking up conversation.
"Actually I came with the princess's entourage this afternoon."
"Princess? As in the Trysting princess?" Seeing her nod he laughed "Goes to show how much can happen in a few hours. I'm Collin by the way."
"I'm Henrietta." Seeing no recognition she giggled to herself. "Actually I'm a good friend of Louise; I've just finished visiting her. And judging by your name you must be her familiar?"
"I prefer the term partner."
"Ah right, she mentioned that you were different."
Collin paused in his scrubbing for a moment before continuing. He asked innocently "Different? Different how?"
"That you don't acknowledge the nobility system here and seem to pick fights with nobles every other day. She told me that you had a run in with Federico de Gramont a week ago. Is that why you've been training? To take revenge?"
"Well... It's actually the other way around, fights seem to come to me. Truth is I don't hate Frederico. In fact I'd like to thank him. He showed me how weak I am compared to the nobles and if I wish to protect myself and Louise I had to get stronger."
Satisfied with his reply she said "I'm glad Louise has a friend like you Collin."
"Well I owe her for saving my life. I'm also quite surprised to hear that Louise has friends, she's quite an outcast in school."
Henrietta nodded sadly "Her inability to perform magic has caused her to be shunned even during childhood; I was her only friend as she was mine."
"Really? You seem really nice; I'm surprised you find it hard to make friends."
Henrietta just blushed at the compliment. In all honesty she was enjoying herself; this was the first conversation she had ever had where she wasn't views as 'the princess'. It was one of the reasons why she turned away all the other 'friends' that approached her.
"Have you heard about the familiar fair?"
"Bits and pieces of it around the academy. Why?"
"Will you be taking part?"
Collin snorted "And be some sort of exhibition for nobles to ogle at? No thanks."
Henrietta grabbed his hands catching him by surprise, looking into his eyes she pleaded "Please do it for Louise sake. She's been looked down upon for so long and you're the first success she's had Collin. You have a chance now to turn her life around, please use it. A familiar reflects a mages skill; you can show everyone that Louise is not useless."
Looking at the cloak in his hands Collin muttered "Louise the Zero."
"Excuse me?"
"Louise the Zero. That's what's the students call her
"That's horrible!" Henrietta held a hand to her mouth. "She didn't tell me about that."
Collin laughed humourlessly."Yeah I can imagine why." He sighed "Alright I'll do it. Louise needs the confidence boost as well if she ever wants to succeed in her spells."
"Thank you."
Grunting Collin wrung the cloak and satisfied that it was clean he laid it on the heat stone to dry. Ah the wonders of magic. He leant back to enjoy the heat. They sat in silence for a while.
"You're not from around here are you Collin?"
He glanced up sharply at this. "How did you know? What did Louise tell you?"
"Oh she didn't say anything."
Eyeing her in suspicious he asked further "Then how did you know?"
Winking mischievously she replied "I'll tell you if you tell me more about your home."
Thinking carefully about what he could tell he be began cautiously "Well in my country there are no nobles. We are a republic where the people vote members into the government."
Henrietta gasped at this. "And the mages have no objections?" Perhaps this was what she could aim to lead Tristain to.
"Honestly... Where I come from no one can use magic."
Henrietta was even more shocked. A land without magic? How did they survive?
"Well I've answered your question now answer mine."
Henrietta got up and brushed the dirt from her bottom. "Well firstly you don't seem to care about the nobility system which implies that you come from somewhere beyond the 4 great magical kingdoms." Drawing the now dry cloak about her she continued "and secondly you didn't recognize the name of the princess of the country you're currently residing in."
Realisation dawned on Collin. No wonder her name sounded so familiar. "Henrietta."
"At your service." With a cheeky smile she gave a wave and left a stunned Collin behind. "It was nice talking to you Collin! I have to go now, Agnes must be looking for me."
He watched her hurry away before falling backwards onto the grass and stared up into the night sky. He had just spent the last half an hour talking to a princess. She seemed really nice though, unlike most of the nobles he had encountered. Turning his thoughts to the familiar fair he wondered what he would perform.
"Hey Derf you've been really quiet. Something wrong?" Collin called to the talking sword.
Derflinger gave a loud snort "Say wha? Something happen gov? Wasn't me."
"Wait. Were you sleeping the entire time?"
Only the faint sound of rattling metal replied him. Shaking his head at the sheer absurdity of the situation Collin headed back to Louise room, an idea had come to him. Oh he'd give them a show alright.
Xxxxxxxxx
"Rise and shine sleeping beauty. It's a big day today." Collin roused Louise from her sleep, drawing back the curtains and letting the breeze in.
"What?" Louise mumbled incoherently, shielding her eyes from the bright sunlight.
"Sleeping beauty? It's from a fairy tale in my world where-" Collin was caught off guard when Louise suddenly sprang up from her bed, sheets flying.
"You!" She thundered, raining tiny fists onto him. "Where have you been the last few days! Do you know what day it is?"
Raising his arms to block her assault Collin made a guess. "The familiar fair?"
Louise paused before resuming " If you knew then why didn't you come back to prepare for it?"
"Don't worry your pretty little head about it. I have it handled. Now come on and get dressed or we're going to miss breakfast." Collin extricated himself from her grasp. "You look terrible by the way, didn't sleep well?"
"It's all because of you! I was waiting all night for you!" Louise grumbled pulling on her academy uniform. She glanced over the table where the strange book lay. She was certain she fell asleep reading it. Collin must have carried her to bed. For some reason she found herself smiling.
"Oooooo a guy shouldn't leave a lady waiting partner." Derflinger said suggestively.
Louise glared at the sword hatefully.
"Shut up Derf. By the way I met Henrietta last night. Imagine my surprise when I found out she was a princess."
Louise paused in mid dress. "You what?!"
"I met Henrietta last night. I ran into her after she visited you."
"I hope you treated her with the proper respect." Louise asked accusingly.
"Of course I did." Collin replied. "Though I didn't realize she was the princess until she told me before leaving."
"You didn't recognise- never mind. You should take note to remember who saved your life. She prevented the wrath of the nobility from falling on you after what you did to Duccio."
Collin was surprised at the news. "We'll I've got to remember to thank her the next time I see her. Now come on or they won't have those scones I really like anymore." He left the room.
"Hey wait up!" Louise called. As she left the room she glanced at the mysterious book. Who put it in her bag?
Breakfast went by without incident. Many students were absent from the dining hall due to last minute preparations for their performances. No matter how much Louise tried to wheedle information out of Collin he refused to answer, choosing to stuff his face with scones. Even the normally talkative Derflinger kept silent despite her promises to oil him. Louise was rather ticked off at the secrecy but she was glad that she at least had something to show off to the princess.
Finally noon came and went and it was time for the familiar fair. It was being held at Vestri Court, some earth mages had constructed a giant platform for the performances and stone chairs were lined in neat rows before it. The judges' tent was erected to the side of the platform.
As Collin sat down he noted that the stone chair was strangely comfortable, not the cold hard stone he expected. Louise explained it was done manipulating the clay to mould to the users body. As usual no one chose to sit around them. This suited Louise fine as she was feeling extremely nervous and didn't feel like making conversation.
"Louise! Collin! I've finally found you." Kirche plopped herself in the seat adjacent to them. Louise groaned, life never made it easy for her. Flame leapt up next to her and rested his head on her lap, swishing its tail happily. "So Collin you're really taking part?"
"Yup."
Kirche pouted "And here I was thinking I stood a chance. What will you be doing?"
"Sorry it's a secret. But I'm sure you'll put up a great show!"
"Of course, Flame here is from the Fire Dragon Mountains after all. Isn't that right Flame?"
Flame purred from his comfortable position.
A shadow was cast over them as Sylphid landed besides them. Tabitha was on her back reading as usual.
"Hey Tabitha. What will you be doing?" Kirche greeted her.
"Flying."
"Bah I give up getting anything out of all of you." Kirche threw her hands in the air.
Finally the students settled into their seats and sounds of trumpets rungs through the air. The students' hushed whispers filled the court as the musketeers marched down the central aisle from the academy's large double doors in pairs. They carried large heavy muskets on their backs, pistols and arming swords hung at their waists. As the front two reached the stage they stopped and parted, standing to the side, ensuring a clear pathway for the judges.
The doors opened once again and the princess entered the courtyard flanked by Old Osmond and Professor Colbert. The three would be the judges for the familiar fair.
The students cheered as the princess waved, walking down the cleared pathway to the stage. She wore in a beautiful white dress with her princess's tiara.
Climbing up the stone steps she faced the audience "Greetings proud students of Tristain Academy. It is my pleasure to be one of the judges for this year's familiar fair. For the third years I hope this brings back refreshing memories for you and for the first years you have this to look forward to next year. Finally I wish the second years the best of luck for their performances! Without further ado lets the familiar fair begin!" She raised her jewelled sceptre into the air, sending bright sparks into the sky, not unlike fireworks. The students cheered drowning out the loud bangs of the fireworks.
Collin watched the princess as she bowed and took her place at the judges table. She looks so different. So much more... Regal.
xxxxxxxxxxxx
The order of performance was decided by the luck of the draw. Louise stared hatefully at the 42 in her hands.
"Don't fret Louise, it only means we can leave a great impression." Collin nudged Louise in the ribs, trying to lift the damp aura surrounding her.
"You sure are confident."
"Of course. I've got something great in mind."
"And you still won't tell me."
"Righto."
"Hush you two, the first person is going up." Kirche called to them from her seat.
Louise grunted and looked up to watch the other students. Most of the performances were mediocre; while well-rehearsed and executed they weren't very memorable.
Kirche and Flame performed a fine fire display. Flame would stream fire out of his mouth in intricate shapes which culminated in a fire tornado around Kirche which barely left her singed.
"Woo go Kirche!" Collin cheered as she returned to her seat.
Kirche gave her signature wink in response.
Montmorency performed a beautiful violin piece while her frog Robin danced to the music.
And who could forget Guiche who just lay there on stage with his mole Verdandi in a bed of roses as the students awkwardly clapped for him.
Tabitha was a real crowd favourite. She began with simple loops and flying tricks in the air all while sitting on Sylphid's back. What really got the crowd going was the climax when Sylphid flew high into the air, higher than the tallest tower in the academy before plunging down in a death defying dive, only to pull up inches from the ground. Her strong wing beats blasted wink across the crowd causing the crowd to cheer loudly.
And finally they reached the bottom of the list. "Louise Francoise Le Blanc de La Vallière." The herald called out.
Louise was nervous. Very nervous. As amazing as Collin could be she wondered how he could top these magical beasts. She swallowed and got up, walking slowly towards the stage. Collin walked closely behind, relaxed. The students hushed as they saw the infamous duo walk up onto the stage.
"Greeting your highness." Louise bowed deeply.
"Louise Francoise. It is my pleasure to meet you." Henrietta completed the formal greeting. Louise looked up and locked eyes with her. Though her tone was formal her eyes were friendly and that served to settle her nerves. "And Collin it is a pleasure to meet you as well."
"Henrietta." Collin tilted his head in greeting.
Louise fumed at his informal attitude to the princess. Oh he was so in for it.
Professor Colbert spoke up. "I am very interested to see what your familiar will be performing Miss Vallière. With all that has gone on I'm sure he will amaze us once again."
"Well..." Louise looked at Collin unsure.
Collin took his cue. "First I have a request princess."
Henrietta nodded, indicating for him to proceed.
"Would you kindly lend me your musketeers?"
"Oh? What for?" Henrietta leaned forward intrigued.
"For a sparring match."
"That sounds interesting." Henrietta looked towards the captain of her musketeers. "I think I can manage that. Agnes?"
Agnes frowned. "I think we can spare some. How many do you need?"
"As many as you can free up."
Agnes frowned at his carefree attitude. Although she had heard the rumours about him this was unexpected. "These are some of the finest fighters in Tristain."
Collin nodded resolutely.
Turning she snapped her fingers at the musketeers standing along the pathway, calling 10 over. She smirked and asked "Is this sufficient?"
"That will do just fine." Collin drew Derflinger His runes glowed under the fingerless glove he wore to cover them.
Louise tugged at his elbow. She said in a hushed whisper "Are you insane? You couldn't beat Frederico what makes you think you can beat 10 of them!"
Collin stated at her evenly. "I intend to find out."
Louise backed off seeing the seriousness in his eyes. He wouldn't listen to her, not now.
Henrietta asked "Are sure you won't reconsider?"
"I'm sure. Ah I almost forgot." Collin reached into his pocket and pulled out a piece of cloth. All eyes followed him as he proceeded to blindfold himself. The musketeers looked at each other in disbelief. Was he really going to fight them blind? The musketeers had build up a reputation for being extrememly fierce fighter, attributing to their lack of magic, giving them a standing equal to the other magical corps. Frankly this was insulting.
Derflinger guffawed "You sure have guts partner."
Collin merely smirked and walked to the centre of the stage announcing "I'm ready."
Agnes bristled at Collins arrogance. "The rules are simple. Any form of attack is permitted. No maiming or killing is allowed." She smirked; she would show them that the musketeers were not to be trifled with
Collin closed his eyes and focused. Suddenly the world burst into view, not the colourful one he saw through his eyes but a world heavily tinted in red. The 10 musketeers surrounding him glowed orange while the audience in background glowed pale yellow. He unlocked this ability the day before when Guiche blinded him with sand. With it he was able to take down the Valkyries to Guiche's disbelief. He theorized that this was how the infected saw, seeing as many didn't have eyes either.
Suddenly one of the orange shapes began moving towards him at an astonishing space. Waiting till the last moment he brought Derflinger up to deflect the sword blow, the heavy downswing barely jarred his arm. The musketeer began raining rapid blows from various angles, trying to slip past his guard. Collin laughed out loud as he parried them with ease. Gone was the delay between his movements. The meditation over the past week had served to familiarize him with the instinctual whisperings in his mind/
Suddenly going on the offensive he quickly disarmed the musketeer and sent him flying with a push. No need to break any bones. The students scattered as the musketeer crashed into their midst. Silence hung over the courtyard as everyone stared in disbelief. He had defeated a musketeer blindfolded.
The shock wore off the other musketeers and they'd charged in unison. Trying to avoid being trapped he charged at the nearest musketeer, slashing Derflinger in side arc. She blocked his blow and kept of the defensive. After seeing what he could do they weren't underestimating him again. Collin cursed as he tried to find an opening. Though he figured he could easily smash through her blocks his instincts were causing him to limit his strength, whatever strange magic guided him wasn't used to the strength of an infected.
However his blows were still stronger than an average human's and he sensed his opponent weakening. An orange blob moved up behind him trying to take him by surprise. He quickly did a half turn and blocked the strike.
"Hah! Is that all you've got-argh!" Collin gasped as pain lanced across his back.
The musketeer he had turned his back to had taken the opportunity to attack. They weren't the princess's personal guard for nothing. They paused assuming he would go down from the injury. Grinning Collin took advantage of this and quickly knocked them out with two hits with the flat of Derflinger's blade.
3
The next trio attacked. They stabbed, thrust and parried. Collin was being forced back towards the remaining musketeers. He had to do something before he got trapped, but they were attacking in perfect unison, defending each other's flanks as they advanced. He cursed his wise idea of blindfolding himself; perhaps he had overestimated his skills. Short of attacking with such strength that he would shatter their blades he had to come up with something. Something unthinkable. Something crazy.He grinned as an idea entered his head. The crowd was so going to love this.
When one of the musketeers next swung Collin reach out his free hand and grabbed the blade, the sharp metal bit into his palm but he ignored it, ripping the sword out of the musketeers grasp. Before the musketeer could recover he got a rap on the head with the hilt of his own sword, dropping out cold.
Collin flipped the sword about and caught it by its hilt. Brandishing the dual swords he smirked at the unnerved musketeers before him. Oh he was regretting the blindfold so much. He would pay anything to see their faces now.
Xxxxxxxxxxxxxxx
Louise stood by the judges table in stunned astonishment. The other judges were no different. They watched in stunned silence with the rest of the crowd as Collin waved his new sword in a "come-and-get-me" fashion.
Henrietta swallowed. "Louise."
"Yes Princess?"
"I think you were under exaggerating your familiar's skills."
Louise wordlessly nodded.
Agnes gripped her sword in frustration as she watched her musketeers lose one by one.
Colbert smiled as he watched Collin's overwhelming skill in the blade. So this was what the legendary Gandalfr was able to do, he expected nothing less from the familiar said to beat a 7000 strong army singlehandedly.
"Something interesting Professor Colbert? Would you like to share?" Colbert's amusement hadn't escaped Henrietta notice.
"I was just thinking back on how Miss Vallière here used to call herself a zero." Louise sputtered at this. "And now she's summoned one hell of a familiar. And you know they say a familiar represents a mages power." The power of a void mage.
Louise's turned beet red at the compliment and blubbered incoherently. She felt a strange feeling welling up inside her. Happiness? Pride? She didn't know what it was but threatened to burst out of her. Colbert was right, a familiar that was summoned was said to match the mages affinity and skill. She wasn't a zero!
Xxxxxxx
Collin attacked when the musketeers didn't respond to his taunts. Charging the nearest one his strike was blocked by a last minute guard the musketeer put up. He blocked the second musketeers attack with the arming sword. Finally free to attack Collin kicked the first musketeer sending him sailing off the stage.
Trapping the other musketeer's sword between his own two he quickly disarmed him and sent him off the stage with a punch.
6
The remaining musketeers wised up and kept their distance from him. One of them drew his hidden throwing knives, flinging them directly at his thigh. Collin hadn't even registered them before they embedded into the back of his leg. Such a shot would have severed his tendons and crippled a normal man. He gasped in pain but didn't go down; he was no normal man after all. Dropping the arming sword he pulled the knives out with a grunt, the wounds sealed as the projectiles left his flesh. It appeared his infected vision had a weakness; small inorganic bodies escaped his detection. As he held them he suddenly understood the throwing knives intricately, their aero dynamicity and curves. He flung them back at the thrower with a quick flick of his wrist, each just brushing past his head. Collin stared at him through his blindfold. The musketeer calmly nodded and left the battle accepting his defeat.
7
Suddenly Collin felt a chill on the nape of his neck, quickly twisting his body he narrowly dodged the bullet that streaked past his chest. He could practically feel the bullet grazing him. Were they seriously trying to kill him? He got his answer as a musketeer took advantage of his shock to attack. He grinned. They truly were skilled fighters, knowing he would be able to dodge the attack they used it to force him where they wanted him to be. Too bad for them. Trapping the musketeers arm under his own he caught her in a deadlock.
He noticed one of the remaining two musketeers dashing forward to attack, releasing the musketeer Collin sprang forward to meet the attacker. Or so he planned to. The musketeer he held on to countered his lock and caught him in her own, pinning him there for her comrade. His eyes widened under the blindfold as her intention became clear. She either trusted her fellow musketeer's skill… or she was willing to sacrifice herself. With a roar he used brute force to break free. So great was her determination that it took him dislocating both her arms to release him.
8
He spun to face the attacking musketeer who tries to change course at the last second. Gripping her arm and twisting it back he disarmed her and reached for her pistol. The last musketeer was clear in his sight. He drew the pistol from its holster. He could see the inner workings of the pistol in his mind's eye. It was much simpler than the designs of pistols from his world. The barrel lacked the grooves to improve the accuracy of the shot and bullet wasn't perfectly shaped. However he knew that he could still make the shot, even blindfolded. Snapping his arm forward he let loose a shot. The bullet struck the sword's guard, centimetres from the musketeer's hand. The sword flew out of his grasp as he nursed his stinging hand.
10
The stunned silence broke as the students broke into huge applause.
An orange blob moved rapidly towards him and he nearly attacked when it shouted "Collin!"
Louise tackled him and hugged him tightly, burying her head into his chest. "Thank you. Oh thank you thank you thank you! You were amazing!"
He removed his blindfold and awkwardly patted her head. The sudden transition left him unsure of what to do. The students continued cheering in the background.
The judges whispered amongst themselves. Henrietta stood up and announced in her magically amplified voice "By the unanimous decision of the judges we proclaim Louise Francoise Le Blanc de La Vallière the winner of this year's familiar fair!"
Old Osmond approached them with a small jewelled crown held on a velvet cushion.
Louise immediately got down on one knee as Henrietta placed the crown on her head. A wide smile stretched across her face. The first Collin had ever seen. He realized how much this must have meant to her and was glad he made the choice.
He met Henrietta's eyes as she looked up from Louise. She grinned, eyes twinkling.
Henrietta turned back to the audience. "That being said all the second years put up a great show and your talents are in no way insignificant. Now let us adjourn for a break before the ball tonight!"
The students scattered in groups, excitedly chatting about the familiars they had seen. Some of them looked disappointed at having lost while others were just happy that their ordeal was over. They were all looking forward to the feast and dance. Kirche and Tabitha waved to them as they departed as well.
Collin approached the musketeers he fought, leaving Louise to talk animatedly to the princess. They had gathered together and their water mage was treating their injuries.
"I hope I didn't injure you guys too badly."
They were in the midst of reviving those he had knocked out. One of them, the one with the throwing knives spoke for the group "Don't worry about it. We've had worse. But your skill is astounding. Where did you learn to fight like that? And blind as well? Did you use your hearing or something?"
Collin winked. "It's a secret."
"Collin!" Louise tugged at his arm urgently, having finished her conversation. "We need to go and pick out outfits for tonight."
Pulled along by the little pinkette Collin could only wave helplessly at the musketeers who guffawed in laughter.
The princess watched them from afar and smiled. She envied their carefreeness. Collin was beyond her expectations. He was also a danger, though his loyalty lay with Louise he was still an unknown. And from the way she saw Agnes glaring at him she knew Agnes would concur. To summon such a dangerous individual, how much power did her old friend really possess?
Xxxxxxx
Fouquet of the crumbling dirt snuck through the dimly lit corridors. It was evening and all the students and staff would be at the dining hall for the ball. She finally arrived at her destination. The huge imposing oak doors of the school vault stood before her. Finally after her weeks of reconnaissance it was time to make her move. With the princess at the academy all the guards were required to ensure her safety leaving the vault unguarded.
Muttering a spell designed to detect magical enchantments Fouquet lay a hand on the cool wooden door. She frowned as the entire door filled with runes of various colours. Colbert had been right. The square mage that built the vault had been extremely talented. There were fail safes and contingency locks in place to ensure no uninvited party entered. There was no way she a triangle mage, a talented one nonetheless, could hope to overcome the protection charms without triggering an alarm and trap.
She cast another magic detection spell and what she found pleased her. Though the enchantments were complex there was little power used to fuel them, with sufficient brute force she could overwhelm the defences and break into the vault. Whoever designed it apparently thought that such a brutish move would never be considered as it would alert the entire school. But she would be in and out in an instant.
Quickly exiting the building she drew a giant magical rune on the ground.
"zne let bel irbt sje chic sur..."
Xxxxxxx
A/N
Woo another chapter done! Hope you guys enjoyed Chapter 5 of Infection In Halkeginia. Thankfully it didn't go up to 18k words. Mid-years are coming soon and the next chapter will probably be only on Fouquet's theft so it shouldn't be too long to write. I'll try to post the next chapter up by the end of the month. Btw for the summon golem invocation I just slammed my keyboard repeatedly.
Thanks for the reviews once again, it's interesting to read your thoughts on the stories and encouragement is greatly appreciated.
Some questions:
How do you think I handled the dialogue? Was it too OC? Unnatural?
What do you think about the match? It was a pain to make Collin come off as cool but not make the musketeers seem pathetic as well. They are the princess's personal guard and extremely skilled and doing so would be insulting.
Also what do you guys thinks about Collin's version of sensory powers. Reading up on Mercer's and Heller's it seems they developed to the needs of the host. So I decided to give Collin a way to detect magic which will come in handy in future.
I came up with the limiter so as to not make Collin OP this soon. This will be one of the differences between using normal weapons and his bio weapons. He needs an incentive to use them after all.
To the reviewers:
To Zaralann: Well he currently has the basic abilities Mercer and Heller both had when they were initially infected. Lacking a city full of biomass to consume he hasn't progressed as far or as quickly as them as the other two have. He'll get his bio-weapons in due time.
To wqs: I can't wait to write them.
To GreyMan19: Oho it will, but not by whom you may be thinking about.
To KO: Never liked that bastard as well, I have something special for him in mind.
To Kane: Well I've improved on his swordsmanship skills, thought only that *wink wink*. I agree with your point on Saito, he seemed like he was too lazy to practise despite being put in life threatening situations so many times. The image of Mercer breathing fire that you put in my head is just so epic I think I may include that in future. I appreciate the questions and they've been quite successful thanks!
To Coolstorybro: Alright, be sure to alert me if I ever go down that slippery path : )
To Yeza Nairomof: Well Collin had been mostly unable to land a hit on Frederico and at that point Frederico could have burnt Collin to a crisp. Besides his intention was only to send a message, succeeding in that goal he left.
As always thanks for reading and please leave a review if possible!