A week later, on the Day of Void.

The Ball of Sleipnir was finally going to be held today.

It was supposed to be a day of rest, but the students of the Academy of Magic were restless all morning, even during breakfast.

"Who are you going as?"

"I'll try that."

It was what all the conversations were about.

Guiche crossed his legs, as proud as a peacock.

"I wonder who I should become? But, for someone as handsome as myself, is it not better to just remain as I am? Don't you think so too, Zero?"

"Yeah, yeah." Zero replied idly, regarding Guiche as something that was little more than a breeze in the wind. Sitting across from him was Malicorne, who was hugging himself.

"What should I do... If it remains like this, it looks like I'm going to have to become a beautiful girl."

"Just do that already."

"Sigh... What should I do? Isn't that a crime?"

"Of course it's a crime. I reckon that it warrants a death sentence."

"Haa... A death sentence... Ha... Ha..." Malicorne stammered as he held his trembling body together.

The image of the boy acting like a young girl made Zero thankful that he could repress memories. Huh, Zero couldn't figure out why he couldn't remember the last ten seconds... But he felt strangely relieved. As he listened to the kids talk and get so excited over some masquerade ball, he couldn't help but think they were easily pleased. It's only putting on a little disguise, did it really require so much thought? Zero thought to himself, not knowing that they would be disguising themselves using magic.

It really only required a little bit of thought to realize that the Academy of Magic would never hold an ordinary masquerade ball... but, being completely uninterested in the matter, Zero never considered this.

Siesta was cleaning the room when Zero returned after breakfast.

"Welcome home, Zero."

"Thanks."

Siesta was cleaning the room with a bright smile on her face.

"Today's the day of The Ball of Sleipnir."

"Are you going too?" Zero asked.

"I'm going... because they are shorthanded..." Siesta replied shyly with her head down for some reason.

"I see..."

So, should I go or not? Zero was something to do, but he didn't feel like dressing up. At the same time, he knew Louise would be put out with him if he didn't at least show up.

Siesta walked towards Zero and looked into his eyes.

"Umm..."

"Ah, yes?"

"I've been reading a book lately." Siesta said, as she pulled out a book.

"What's it about?"Zero asked.

"Oh, I forgot Zero can't read." Siesta blushed as she explained the story to Zero. "The name of the book is 'A Housemaid's Afternoon.'"

"Uh huh."

"It's a story about a young maid serving in an aristocrat's residence. And the master of that residence is a man who is corrupted to the core."

"Uh huh."

"Every night, he would coerce the maid into doing unpleasant things with him."

"Unpleasant things?"

Siesta muttered something into Zero's ear.

Zero just looked at the girl and did the only thing he could. His palm flew up to his face with a speed that surprised even him. As a matter of fact, the speed of his face palm was so intense that he managed to floor himself. From the ground, Zero asked,"...Are these the sort of books that you read?"

"W-What do you mean by that? It's from a girl in my dorm. She let me borrow it!" Siesta blushed as her hands shook.

Zero looked at her dubiously as he stood up. "Really?"

"I'd hate it if a person like the master from the story were to touch me like that… but, if it were Zero…"She said as she took a step closer.

Zero stiffened as she got closer, and evaluated every possible escape angle from where she was now.

Siesta covered her blushing face with her hands as she took a step back. "N-Never mind! I was only joking!"

"O-Of course…" Zero laughed, glancing nervously towards the window. Two and a half steps to freedom should things turn for the worst. Easy.

Then, Siesta tilted her head towards Zero with a curious glint in her eyes. "But… how about we give it a try?"

"Huh..." Zero said slowly.

"A little trying won't hurt. after all!" Siesta turned to face away from Zero, and said in a melodramatic voice,"Ah! Oh no, I broke master's cup!"

"…"

"It's Zero's turn now." Siesta said in a serious tone as she turned around. All she saw was the window curtains moving...

A few moments later Louise walked into the room, and looked at the maid strangely. "Siesta, is there any reason that Zero jumped out of the window? I saw him leaving as I was on my way up.

"Ah...Well... I was just talking about a book I was given." Siesta said nervously.

"Ah... I suppose that he seems to be the type who prefers actions to sitting and reading. I am impressed that you can read though." Louise replied, looking at the maid suspiciously.

"Ah yes, it was something my grandfather was adamant about. He had some weird views on what he believed everyone should know..."

"I see. Those are the same views that Zero should have... I wonder why he can't read, even now?" Louise commented.

"I do not know. Do you think that he is embarrassed to ask?" Siesta replied, glad that the subject of her book had never come up.

***Break***

"Commander!" Guiche called as he ran up to Zero.

"Yeah?" Zero replied as he turned to face the young man.

"Have you decided who you shall be for the night?"

"I don't know. I suppose I can switch to my blue armor and just go as X." Zero replied with a shrug.

Guiche looked at Zero oddly and laughed. "Don't get me wrong Zero, I'm not trying to state the obvious, but... Are you aware that we're using magic to change?"

"What?"

"Whomever you envision you can become using the Mirror of Truth."

Zero looked at him blankly and then he smiled. "I see... Interesting..."

Guiche nodded,"I agree. It is always fun to guess who is who."

***Break***

When evening came, "The Mirror of Truth" was drawn out from the treasure vault onto entrance of the dance hall in the second floor. A black curtain was pulled around the magic mirror. No one could tell what form the person within would transform into.

Miss Chevruse , wearing a butterfly mask, stood at the side of the curtain.

"Noblemen and Noble ladies, tonight I will guide you into a world of fantasy."

She enthusiastically announced to the line of students. Louise, who was also in the queue, was pondering who to transform into.

Doubt began to creep into her mind.

Will Zero recognize me after I've changed?

He should be able to It was Louise's turn. She walked through the curtains. There was only a mirror inside, which was roughly two meters high, installed on a simple frame, and covered by a cloth.

Miss Chevruse's voice echoed from outside,

"Please listen well. You must think only of the person you wish to become the most and not be distracted by anything else. This mirror will look into your heart's deepest desires, and grant you that form. Once you've prepared yourself, please remove the cloth."

Louise took a deep breath. "Okay." She lifted the cloth from the mirror.

A beautiful mirrored surface emerged from beneath it, radiating all the colors of the rainbow.

The reflection that graced the mirror's surface was gradually enveloped by the radiant glow.

The flowing lights suddenly disappeared, once again returning her surroundings to darkness.

However, it was no longer Louise in the mirror.

What had appeared instead was the reflection of a gentle, warm, pink-haired, twenty-three-year-old lady. It was the figure of Louise's second sister, Cattleya. Cattleya was her ideal. Her sister, who was kinder than anyone else Louise gently placed her hands on her breasts. Walking into the hall, it was filled with all kinds of people: heroes of legend, famous royals, renowned nobles, as well as old gentlemen and ladies. They're probably the students' parents. There were even fellow students, but they were probably not the actual people. I didn't think there would be this many Henriettas. Louise smiled wryly.

It was only on this day that it was practically impossible to tell who was who. To wish to dance with a promised date, there was little else one could do apart from telling the other who you had become. Zero should be able to find me, right? We are connected afterall, right? He must find me.I think he should be able to recognize me. After all, I took on Cattleya's appearance. Seeing that all the students were more or less present, Headmaster Osmand walked onto the platform.

"Greetings, everyone. I would like to welcome you all. Tonight, we hold a ball to help our new students deepen their relationships and friendships. This ball is, of course, anonymous. This is so that not one person should be afraid to be discriminated against because of their family, status or nationality. It is also to let everyone know that everyone is equal within the walls of this academy. And I hope it will leave such an impression on you, as if it does not, it would become impossible for you all to study and develop harmoniously as one."

Osmand then made a dense cough.

"If you wish to introduce yourself to your partner, simply introduce yourself politely. Do not be caught up in the other's appearance or status, or feel a need to introduce yourself in a dignified manner. This is one step of the decorum in the noble's code we do not need to follow."

The students who had gathered nodded their heads.

"Because of the alarm it might have caused everyone, it has yet to be announced... that Her Majesty, Queen Henrietta, is also here tonight."

The hearts of the students leapt.

"Moreover, in the spirit of this ball, Her Majesty herself has also changed. Let us all try to guess who Her Majesty is I think this will be quite interesting."

The students grew restless. An opportunity to converse with the Queen like this did not come very often. There were already many people who were glancing left and right to spot any likely candidates.

Louise was surprised too. If you were coming, would it hurt to tell me first? Louise fumed silently.

"Carrying on I would like to speak about the aim of this ball. Everyone, listen well. You have all now become an image of your ideal. I hope that in getting closer to achieving your ideals, you are not daunted by it, but rather are willing to study hard in the new term, so that you may one day become outstanding nobles that others will aspire to. That... is all."

The hall resounded with thunderous applause.

Headmaster Osmand, with a grim face, left and passed through the mirror, then returned. He had transformed into a young, dangerously seductive young woman. Striking a pose, the woman declared: "I'm Little Osmand! Treat me well!" The students, still captivated by the speech earlier, instantly fell into a stunned silence, like a flame that was just doused. The teachers silently grabbed both of Osmand's arms and dragged him aside.

"E-Everyone, make sure you enjoy the ball!" The struggling Osmand yelled as they were swiftly escorted from the hall.

Music began to play the Masquerade Ball had finally started.

Louise looked left and right, and to her annoyance she saw almost a dozen Zero's about. But she didn't think that he would keep his own form, nor did she see anyone else that he might be. She guessed he hadn't changed yet. Louise sighed as she leaned against the wall.

When Zero had arrived at the assembly hall, the ball had already started. Smiling at the thought of tonight, he had locked into his mind the vision. A vision a century old, but still fresh in his mind. He walked to the curtain when it was his turn,and looked into the fine glass. Concentrating on the one person he respected more than anyone, he was blinded momentarily and then there in the mirror stood X in his basic armor. The red jewel, a mirror to his own blue one shone brilliantly. Zero couldn't help but smile as he was able to see his face even if it was only a reflection of his memory. When Zero stepped out, he walked confidently into the grand hall. It was dim inside the hall, and would have been difficult for a human to see clearly, but Zero had no such issues. He laughed when he saw the groupings of Tiffania, as well as the people that looked like him. As he scanned the room, a familiar figure on the balcony caught his sight. His heart nearly stopped when he saw her brown hair shimmering in the bright moon light. She was standing in much the same position he had been in when he had been at the first ball, looking as much like an outsider as he did on that fateful night. The girl's entire manner seemed so true, so real. Zero spoke her name softly,"Iris."

***Break***

Henrietta was waiting in the Headmaster's room with Axl. She had wanted to surprise everyone during the ball, and mingle with them none the wiser as to who she really was. Axl was looking out the window, and suddenly he burst out laughing. Henrietta followed his gaze and saw Zero land on the ground and bolt as if he was being chased. "I wonder what that was about?"

"Well, he was running scared. That means someone just tried to get a little too 'close' to him if you catch my meaning. That's about the only thing that scares him." Axl said, chuckling.

"I do not understand how he can be so afraid of something so..." Henrietta couldn't seem to find a way to finish the sentence as she spoke, so she simply let it lapse into an awkward silence.

"It has to do with a girl he lost. A good girl, one who accepted him for who he was. She didn't demand anything, didn't want anything other than him. Unfortunately, with what else has happened... Whenever people try and get too close to him he tends to lash out or run away in his own clumsy way." Axl said with a smile as he looked out. His voice seemed tinged with regret.

"You knew her?" Henrietta asked, surprised at this.

"In a way. Would you like to know her?" Axl asked her as he turned to smile at her.

"W-what?" Henrietta asked, taking a step back. Know a dead girl? What was he planning?

"You know she was a reploid right?" Axl asked.

"I... didn't, but it makes sense..."

"Well, you know that some dead reploids become cyber elves?"

"I've heard some mention of that... but I do not understand it I will admit."

"Consider them powerful souls who can impart some of that power to others. I can give a cyber elf that was a reploid it's former physical form and control. It so happens, that a Cyber elf that I have accompanying me is that very girl. She refuses to come out for Zero... But she could meet you if you want."

"She would?"

"Probably." Axl replied easily.

Henrietta nodded, and said,"I would like that. I wish to know more of Zero..."

"Done." Axl replied as he lifted slightly into the air and his form blurred, taking on the form of a beautiful young girl wearing clothing that reminded Henrietta of Zero's armor if it was modeled after a dress. With a look of consternation she complained in an all too cute voice,"Apparently she doesn't want to come out after all..."

Henrietta just stared at the girl, until a giggle from her broke her trance. "What do you mean she doesn't want to come out after all?"

"Oh, I can take the form as much as I want, but she doesn't want to come out. I think she's still angry at me about not going and standing with Zero against Albion..." Axl replied with a shrug. "Or maybe using her as a threat. Either way she's pretty angry at me."

Henrietta looked at Axl and her head turned to the side as she considered the 'girl'. "She is remarkably pretty..."

"Yeah. Even now Zero can't let go of her." Axl said with a smile.

"I see..." Henrietta smiled as she committed the form to memory. "Thank you for showing me this Axl, I appreciate it, I truly do."

"No problem. Glad to help whenever I can. Just remember, unless you're Zero you only live once so make sure that you have no regrets." Axl said with a smile as he changed back.

"No regrets? No, I suppose we shouldn't have any regrets." Henrietta replied with a smile. She nodded as she knew what she had to do.

***Break***

Raising her head to see a young man in unusual armor running towards her, Iris blushed. The young man blushed as well."Is it really you, Iris?"

Iris squirmed nervously."Zero?"

"What, have you already forgotten me?" Zero asked, completely forgetting that he no longer looked like himself.

"I'm sorry, Zero..."

"Why are you sorry?" Zero asked,"I know you can't stay like this long..."

"That's right." Iris replied with a nod, knowing that after tonight that she would be the same old princess. Her face blushed and became redder.

This was her, this was the Iris he had remembered. A kind voice, somewhat timid, sometimes apologetic. Zero stepped forward and embraced her, "I'm so glad you were able to come out tonight. I really am."

Iris locked up in Zero's arms then her arms wrapped around him tightly. As tightly as he held her, she held on just as much. "Zero..."

As Zero looked down at Iris, he could only think of one thing, one thing he wanted to do as she looked up at Zero, her eyes glistening."Iris..."

Zero tightly embraced Iris. A warm sigh escaped Iris as she leaned into him.

***Break***

Meanwhile, at the entrance to the hall, the guard stationed there was questioning a very suspicious looking woman. Wearing a long black robe, no matter how you looked at her, she didn't look like a student or teacher.

"Who are you?"

"I was sent from the Royal Palace to attend this ball."

"Royal Palace? Well"

The guard began searching through the list of attendees.

"I'm afraid you won't find my name written on that list."

Before he could question her, the woman quickly revealed a small bell from her robe. "That's..."He had seen this when he was patrolling the treasure vault "The Bell of Slumber? Why-" Just as he suspected something was wrong, the small bell rang out. The sound made a clear echo. A deep drowsiness overcame the guard. Going to fall asleep was ambushed against But the guard was unable to resist. His body fell against a wall, sliding slowly downwards along it as he fell into a deep sleep.

With a giggle, the woman said lightly,"It was the Royal Palace just not Tristain's. Sweet dreams..."

After confirming that the guard had fallen asleep, the long-robed woman walked into the curtain, and, noticing the Mirror of Truth within, revealed a wide grin. She lifted the cloth and gently touched the mirror The mirror emitted a bright light, and, at the same time, the long-robed woman's forehead glowed. If she couldn't tell who her targets were, this mission would be impossible. The ancient runes began to shine on the woman's forehead... She was Myoznitnirn. To her, this was all too easy.

***Break***

Zero kissed Iris's lips. Standing on the tips of her toes, Iris wrapped her arms around Zero's neck.. She was different now, more assertive. Had she waited as long as he had for this? The thought that this was really Axl's body never crossed Zero's mind. To him, right now there was only Iris. A desire to love her even more emerged from within his heart. He held her tightly as he continued to kiss her. As their kiss broke Zero opened his eyes. He gasped in surprise as he looked at the girl that was in front of him. "H-henrietta?" he blurted out. It was Henrietta. How could she? How did she know?

The frantic voices of students echoed from the hall.

"What the-! The magic was dispelled!"

"But the ball hasn't ended yet!"

"But, why did you become Iris? How did you even know?"

Henrietta shamefully lowered her head when asked. "Today is the ball where you could become your ideal."

"Your ideal?" He still didn't understand. "But, why Iris? Why? You didn't know her!"

"Well, that is – A pure girl, with a pure heart... A heart that was able to somehow reach yours... How could I not treat that as my ideal? The truth of the matter is, to be someone who could recieve your love... There could be no greater ideal... Right? But it was just for one night... Only one night..."Henrietta said with a sad smile on her face."I could never be like that girl. I am the cause of so much heartache and death. I know I am unworthy of even taking her form after everything I have done...But still, I wanted to be closer to you even if it was for only one night. No, even if it was for only one moment...Such an unworthy woman I am..." Henrietta said, he face pained, tears falling from her eyes.

Zero looked at her, completely at a loss. This made no sense. How could she know about Iris? He shook his head as he wondered about what she was talking about. He spoke slowly,"The expeditionary army was practically made up of nobles and mercenaries. Nobody was pressed into service. While the students had joined they had the option just like Colbert of not going. Furthermore, there were no commoners who were forced into it either.. So even if you were to say that, no one was forced to go. Everyone went because of their own wishes to do so; Some for glory, others for gold. The threat was very real, and you were responding against their attack on Tarbes." When she didn't reply Zero tried to switch the subject, "So, why are you really here today? Was it to find Louise? "

Henrietta shook her head. "I came here to see you."

"You should forget about me..." Zero said, his eyes pained as he looked at her..

"I don't know why but, whenever I hear your name whenever I lay my eyes upon your face for some reason, my heart... begins to" Henrietta looked up, the tears in her eyes slowly welling up again. "Do you still remember? That incident that night at the small inn in Tristania" Zero nodded. That night, they had kissed. With a smile she continued, "Ever since that evening every time I think of you, my heart aches. The heartache steadily grew deeper and deeper by the time I noticed it, it had already grown to the point I could not worry about it. It was always lingering in my heart I didn't know what to do about it anymore."

Zero turned away, unable to say anything.

"In the midst of all the frantic frenzy and arduous planning, it was only your warmth that protected me. When I found your name among the list of those killed in battle the grief was almost too much to bear. After that when I found out it was you who had stopped the seemingly unstoppable army, do you know how much of a damnation it was for me?" she asked as she leaned into Zero's back.

After she finished speaking Zero turned slowly, placing his hands on her shoulders and lightly pushed her away. "If we were seen like this, nothing good would come of it."

Unexpectedly, Henrietta grabbed Zero's hands and dragged him into the heavy curtains, concealing them both within its shadows.

"Princess?" Zero whispered harshly, surprised by her unexpected move. If he had thought she was going to do something he could have been prepared.

"I understand that as well. But even if it's only for a little while, all I wish is to spend a few more moments of happiness with you. Is that too much to ask? Are you not able to give me even this little bit of your time?"

"..."

"And, even though it will only be for a little while that I can experience happier times... If it was possible, I would remain by your side forever." Henrietta cried like any ordinary girl. The once resolute Queen was actually shedding tears for his sake. Zero was dumbstruck to say the least.

Henrietta once again lifted her face, edging ever closer to Zero. Zero couldn't bring himself to pull away wheen she was like this. Henrietta moved her body into Zero's, pressing him against the wall.

As Henrietta panted tenderly, Zero slowly drew back his lips, watching her intently.

"Princess"

Henrietta kissed Zero's neck.

As though he had been struck by lightning, a shock coursed through his body.

It was at that instant, in a small opening in the curtain, Zero saw strands of pink hair and the brown eyes below them.

"Louise?" He felt the power leaving his body. Henrietta also turned to look.

Louise's entire body trembled as she watched the two of them behind the curtain, before suddenly running away, her hands covering the tears streaming down her face.

As Zero chased after her, he knocked into the students beside the curtain.

"Hey, that hurt!"

"Sorry!" Zero cried out as he ran after her.

However, not a glimpse of Louise could be seen within the crowd.

Because no one knew who dispelled the effects of the Mirror of Truth, the hall was in an uproar, and everyoen was milling about.

"What the hell?"

"Did the Mirror of Truth's magic backfire?"

Afterwards, Henrietta, her face visibly pale, also exited from behind the blinds.

The surrounding students at once exclaimed "Your Highness!" before rushing over to her.

Before he ran off, Zero glanced over at Henrietta to signal that he was going to chase after Louise. Henrietta nodded back somberly, and he took off.

***Break***

Louise dashed out from the main tower, running in the night through the Academy grounds.

The pain and the shock tore her apart. Zero and the Princess? Why? It was after they entered the curtains that Louise saw them. Having noticed them through the opening in the curtains by chance, she had walked over Remembering what they had said, the tears flowed down without end. The two of them were so passionate just like a pair of lovers as they made their vows. And then their lips met like long-separated lovers. Don't tell me they've had such a relationship since a long time ago? Could it be they've been lying to me all this time? To be betrayed by Henrietta, whom I had trusted so Louise could no longer trust anyone ever again. That means Henrietta had only knighted Zero and swore him in as a knight captain was so that she could be by the side of her lover.

"It's too cruel! It's too cruel! It's too cruel!" Louise kept shouting." You've always been lying to me! I'm too dangerous, I'm just a weapon! It was all a lie!" What Louise couldn't forgive the most was, how he had rejected her, how he had always told her that it was him. That he had made her treasure him, and all the things about him. She couldn't help but think that the things she most valued in her heart; the memories she most treasured in her heart were nothing more than lies.

And the one to show this betrayal wasn't just anybody but Henrietta, the person she had always held in the highest regard. To be doubly betrayed like that, Louise couldn't bear it anymore. Regardless, she couldn't remain here. Louise slowly sneaked out the gates of the Academy of Magic, before bolting in a full out sprint. The guards that normally monitored the entrance, due to the commotion caused by the dispelling of the Mirror of Truth's magic, had all rushed to the hall. As a result, the place was empty. Without anyone to stop and question her, Louise headed along the small road leading to the city. I don't want to stay here. I want to go somewhere far away. I want to go to a place where no one will recognize me. With her heart bearing such thoughts, Louise kept running forward without any regard. Running till she was out of breath, Louise collapsed onto the ground, her face covered by the ground and tears flowing down her cheeks

***Break***

Zero exited the main tower and immediately went to Louise's room to find her. However, she had not come back to the room. nothing was taken from here either. He winced as he recalled the look on her face. He had never seen Louise so sad before. He made her become like that... he damned himself for this whole situation. He raced out the door, his mind whirling out of control. While he was running he tried to imagine her feelings. She saw the princess she admired so much and the man she had confessed to multiple times, holding each other as if they were lovers... He couldn't begin to think of the fallout from this.

Although they were not lovers... Louise had seen him allowing Henrietta to go as far as kissing, which was more than he had allowed anyone else... As he exited the tower, Zero looked around. In the midst of the almost pitch-black darkness... Louise's figure could not be seen anywhere.

When he was going towards Vestri Courtyard...

The clouds cleared, and the moonlight revealed a figure; a shadow which was sitting on the bench could be seen.

"Louise!"

He unintentionally shouted and rushed forward, only to find that he was mistaken.

"What? Oh, it's you Tabitha, sorry about that..." Zero apologized rather uncharacteristically. Not even attending the ball on such a night, reading a book on a bench to which no one would come; it was really typical of her. "Did you see Louise?"

Tabitha did not respond.

Staring fixedly at the book, just like that, her body did not stir an inch.

Looking at her oddly he wondered why she didn't respond. He walked closer to her and asked again,"Do you know where Louise is?"

The face which was illuminated by the moonlight, was completely pale.

At that moment... Zero realized that there was a shadow circling in mid-air with its back against the moon.

"What's that? It's not a bird... and it's got legs?"

With the figure of a human and flapping wings, it appeared to be a strange creature. He had no idea what it was, but he had his saber at hand immediately.

"Gargoyle." Briefly, Tabitha said.

"You...!" Zero replied as he jumped back, knowing all to well this type of situation. At that moment when he spoke, Tabitha waved her wand. The air expanded knocking him back. "What are you doing?"

The only response to his question were the ice arrows aimed at Zero.

***Break***

At a place somewhat far from the Academy of Magic, Louise was crying endlessly. "Cruel... too cruel... why, why!"

Pitch black darkness was around her.

It was as if she was left behind all alone in this world. Yet, right now she was not fearful of the darkness. Rather, Louise felt that part of her heart was the same as well.

"Unforgivable... cruel... absolutely unforgivable..."

Words and tears overflowed together, unstoppable. Her miserable feelings kept reproducing.

She muttered that many, many times, and...

"What's unforgivable?"

In the middle of the darkness, a voice could be heard.

Louise who was in a state of confusion, felt something reverberating inside her heart.

"I was betrayed. That's why, it's unforgivable."

"By whom were you betrayed?"

"By someone who was valuable to me..."

"Well then, you must take revenge."

"Revenge?"

"It's unforgivable right? If that's the case, you must take revenge. You can do it. User of the great Void."

At that, Louise came to her senses.

"...Who are you?"

"One of your friends. Since a long time ago... one who serves you people."

"Who are you! Come out!"

Louise shouted into the darkness. Then she remembered the previous incident in Albion.

"Leviathan?"

"Yes, and no."

She focused her eyes... and a winged shadow came into sight. "...Gargoyle?"

As Louise was about to stand up,"Don't worry. I will not harm you."

The gargoyle which had appeared from the dark, moved towards Louise's feet and crouched down reverentially.

"What... what's your intention! Leviathan! You said you won't harm me! Then come out! Let me be your opponent!"

However, the gargoyle opened its mouth.

"For what happened before, I apologize. But, that was a so-called test. I did not want to do it, but it was a necessity to determine whether you deserve to be our ally or not. If you recall, they didn't strike until you had summoned your familiar."

"Speak properly! You think I would believe such words?"

"Well then, ask yourself. In this world, what is worth believing in?"

Louise was speechless. Just a while ago... wasn't she just betrayed by those two? The two that she had trusted the most?

"My master can teach you that."

"A lie... that's a lie!" Louise's voice was becoming increasingly softer.

"The only one who can truly understand you... is a fellow user of Void. We want you to lend us your power."

"...My power?"

"It's natural for you to be cautious. Yet, excessive caution would turn your eyes away from the truth. Think on it, how often has Zero betrayed you? Misled you?"

Whether or not it was magic, the gargoyle's voice was enchanting.

Gradually, Louise's caution disappeared.

Louise, who was confused because of her grief, did not know that she was falling for a trick.

"You, are you really my friend?"

"Of course."

"My friend? You won't betray me?"

"I will definitely not betray you."

The gargoyle slowly turned around, and showed Louise it's back.

"Please ride on me. One of our great masters."

Louise could not resist that voice any more.

She felt the gargoyle's back... and Louise's senses flew away. Slowly, as if she was falling asleep, Louise lay down on the gargoyle's back.

***Break***

With perpetual Windy Icicles striking him, Zero tumbled sideways to avoid them. Something was wrong about this. While they were powerful and making some deep indents in the ground, that meant nothing. She was firing where he was, and with an opponent with his speed, that wasn't going to ensure anything but failure. Clearly, it was an attack whose aim was not to kill Zero, but simply cage his movement and buy time. The only question was, for what?

"What the hell? What do you want?" Zero yelled in anger. He did not understand the reason behind this attack at all." Tabitha! You, what the hell are you doing?"

The response was magic, a small storm of shards that forced Zero to jump back. Zero could see the magic and assessed it. This wasn't triangle magic by any stretch of the imagination. This was magic of a power superior to even Wardes! Tabitha scattered Windy Icicles in all directions, surrounding him, and sent them flying. After the smokescreen of water vapor produced by the countless Windy Icicles cleared up... Zero was standing there with Derflinger unsheathed. The Windy Icicles were absorbed by Derflinger, while the remaining ones were swiped away by Zero with his saber.

"What on earth, what's your reason? Why did you attack me? Explain!" Zero demanded angrily.

Tabitha lifted her wand. "Because of a command."

"Command? Who commanded you!"

As expected, her reply was magic.

Zero gripped Derflinger tightly and leaped. He planned to shorten their distance in one breath... and knock down the wand Tabitha was holding but Tabitha reacted to Zero's movements and leaped, passing by him with the aid of her wind mastery. Her body moved agilely, just like the traditional Wind element which she took her affinity from. As if she were a clockwork puppet, Tabitha combined her body's skills and magic to dodge the sword Zero brandished repeatedly. She was jumping up and down, evading the sword, and at the same time, She chanted a wind hammer knocking Zero back as she used magic to fly past him, removing his advantage of speed again. "Air Hammer."

At that instant the sword was already set up, but, taken by surprise, Derflinger could not absorb it with how much it had already taken in.

Receiving the full blow, Zero was hurled into air.

"Damn..."

However, that attack did not carry the strength he knew the girl possessed. It seemed that both sides lacked decisive blows. Just to match Zero's speed she had to put in a lot of effort. Yet, Tabitha was fast. With a small and light body, her movements were faster than Wardes whom he had fought before this.

"This girl is like that ideal you were talking about. The movements of an assassin."Derflinger revealed his feelings.

"Assassin?" Zero asked, as he avoided another barrage of ice needles.

"Yeah. Avoiding direct battles, and when the opponent reveals his weakness, deciding the victor in an instant. That girl's one by one strikes are not very strong. Her moves and speed are extraordinary though."

"Shut up Derf!" Zero muttered as he jumped back again.

"Partner's heart is shaking. I can feel it from here." Derflinger said sadly.

"Why are we fighting? What is the reason we need to fight Tabitha?" Zero demanded. Because he could not bring himself to turn the edge of Derflinger towards the girl Zero could not even display half of his usual power. Unable to understand her reason for attacking, he could not fight Tabitha. Before he knew it, in his defensive battle, Zero was driven into a corner. No... Even if he used his full power, Zero would not be able to fight Tabitha seriously. Now, he only drew his sword to try his best to knock Tabitha's wand out of her hand. This was Zero's only option.

The offense and defense strikes continued back and forth...Zero and Tabitha were confronting each other within a distance of twenty feet. Instantly, Zero retreated slightly beyond the distance which he could plunge forward towards her immediately. A distance at which Tabitha could avoid if he were to plunge forward towards her... That was the same for Zero as well. Even if Tabitha uttered any spell... he had the confidence to deal with it from this distance.

"Hey! It's about time you give me the reason..."

At that moment, a voice could be heard from above.. "Do you have a problem in dealing with him?" The gargoyle which they had seen before the battle had started, was carrying something behind it and circling them. In the moonlight, pink hair shone.

"Louise!" Zero called out.

Having lost her spirit, she stood on the back of the gargoyle, as if entrusting her body completely to it. He instinctively dashed towards the place directly under it... but before he could do that, Tabitha blocked his way.

"Move!" Zero shouted at the small girl.

With eyes that revealed no emotion as usual, Tabitha glared at Zero.

"There is no reason for her to step aside. This child is the Knight of the North Parterre. Our loyal watchdog."

"Watchdog?"

"Something interesting eh? Friend against friend. A combination for which my master would be jumping with delight."

Tabitha bent her body slightly and set up her wand. The surrounding air appeared to have turned heavy abruptly. Her magical powers changed into an aura, which drifted about around Tabitha, like a heat haze. Under the illumination of the moonlight, that aura moved about bewitchingly. Blue. An aura which was like the manifestation of Tabitha's power.

Zero wanted to scream. Just why the hell was this going on? "Tabitha. Stop this now."

"..."

"Because you are strong, I can't go easy on you if I want to protect her..."Zero warned her.

Tabitha started to recite spells.

"Hey, Zero. If you aren't serious, you'll get hurt. Do you get it? If you continue like this, you can't save your valuable master." The gargoyle trumpeted, and then giggled as he glared up at it.

"Stop it damn it, don't make me do this!"Zero shouted at Tabitha.

At his angry yell... Tabitha continued reciting her spell. Matching her aria, Tabitha swung her wand simultaneously. Ice spears revolved around her body like serpents.

Guided by the wand... the ice spears rotated.

While rotating, they swelled... larger, sharper, and the blue radiance kept increasing.

Derflinger muttered. "Those are 'Javelins.' Their destructive power is strong. Don't get hit, partner."

"Damn it Tabitha! To save Louise I'll have to kill you! Do you get it?"

The gargoyle's shout reverberated.

"That is the same for this child as well, that's why this is beautiful, Zero. You are going to be forced to see the end of one child's life either way. Let me see your true face Zero. Let me see the Zero behind the hero that everyone loves! Show me that pain we know so well!" Leviathan's voice was almost hysteric as she yelled this.

"Do it! Partner!" Derflinger cried out.

Zero shook his head as if giving up, and jumped.

Simultaneously, Tabitha swung her wand downwards.

Along with the wand, the Javelins aimed and fired towards Zero. The sword and the Javelins seemed sure to meet, but instead they passed right through. The Glittering ice splintered as they hit the wall of the academy.

Tabitha looked left and right, trying to figure out where Zero had gone.

From the gap between the ice splinters, Tabitha appeared to have lifted her wand over her head to fire another round of javelins.

"The first round was a decoy!"Leviathan cried out from above,"You should know Zero better than that!"

In a split second, Zero came back into view and knocked Tabitha down. Straddling that petite body, he pointed his sword at her. But Tabitha would not release her wand. "Drop your wand!" Zero thrust his sword fiercely over her head, and shouted.

Tabitha stared at Zero motionlessly.

Those eyes were... completely cold. Whatever emotions she had could not be seen at all. The only thing was, "Kill the enemy." He recognized it. He saw it, and he understood it. She had something to fight for. Something that she couldn't betray. Her wand swept down, slowly and a few small ice spears flew down to meet them. If Zero dodged, he knew that they would kill the girl instead, so he was forced to spread his body out to take them. He felt them pierce his side and arms, and hissed at the pain but knew that there was no urgent damage done to him. Tabitha's eyes opened wide at seeing this, tears came to her eyes as a warm dark fluid dripped on to her face. "It's over Tabitha." Zero said as he stood up. Zero glared at the gargoyle who was channeling Leviathan's voice.

"Ah, such a refreshing fight. I believe that it was an excellent event. Although, I must admit I am jealous that she managed to do more damage to you than I ever have..." The gargoyle turned and started to fly away after saying it's piece, now that there was no reason to stay.

Tabitha looked after it and sighed. She whistled and Sylphid flew to meet them. She looked at Zero and motioned to the dragon.

"Why?"

"Because...You risked your life for me." Tabitha replied honestly. She turned her head to Sylphid and said,"Chase them."

As they followed the gargoyle, it turned and said,"Oh my... Knight of the North Parterre... A pet dog defying its master?"

Tabitha lifted up her wand in readiness."...Don't misunderstand. I had never sworn loyalty to either of you, not even once."Glaring at the gargoyle, she declared in a soft voice that somehow seemed to carry farther than it should have..

"I will report your treachery. Besides why do this now if you were going to? I have already received my current game nicely in my grasp." The instant she said that...From the sky, a huge shadow descended.

The width of it should have been around thirty feet... It was a gigantic gargoyle. Catching the unconscious Louise with its left hand, it rose up in one breath.

Roaring, Sylphid flew after the gargoyle. Zero and Tabitha were riding Sylphid on its back, pursuing the huge gargoyle. Zero scanned the area carefully, trying to figure out if Leviathan was controlling the gargoyles from somewhere? Her figure could not be seen on its back. When he saw no sign of Leviathan, he asked Tabitha,"Why the hell did you attack me? And why the hell did you save me? Just what is going on here?" He'd never had a spy or traitor save him after they had made their colors known. This was entirely against everything in his experience!

Tabitha was staring straight forward... and muttered,"We'll talk afterwards."

"Kinda like about Sylphid? We never did get to that." Zero responded sourly.

"I promise..."Tabitha said softly.

Zero looked at her and finally nodded."Got it,"

Flapping its wings, the speed of the gargoyle was not that fast. Tabitha's Sylphid managed to catch up with it easily.

Flying under the moonlight, that monstrous figure became distinct.

"Get closer! After that, I'll take care of it."Zero said.

Tabitha nodded, and ordered Sylphid. "Closer."

In the sky, small black dots started to appear gradually.

"Damn it, really?" Zero said as he looked on. More gargoyles. And even worse, they looked to be Psuedo pantheons at that.

Like a flock of ravens, in a number which covered the sky, the gargoyles advanced on them. Moving by magic, the gargoyles' single red eyes shone. They started to surround Sylphid.

"Shit!"Zero said, as he fired repeatedly, taking them down, while the dragon moved to avoid return buster fire.

There were dozens of them.

To stop them from approaching the huge one carrying Louise, they attacked with their electrified blades and claws when they were close. Sylphid let out a terrified scream at the deadly sounds and lights that surrounded her.

Tabitha chanted 'Windy Icicle' again... only one of them dropped down. Because of her previous battle with Zero, it seemed like her willpower had depleted. She watched helplessly as Zero fought back the horde, using Derflinger on them if they got close enough, and firing with his buster. When she thought the fight to be entirely lost, she heard a pair of high pitched whines. Four large blasts from a buster lit the night, destroying a swathe of the gargoyles that were covering the escape of the larger one. Zero's eyes went to where it came from, and there seated upon Axl's white dragon was a combat geared Roll and Axl both with double busters aimed and charging. Making Use of the opening, Sylphid barreled towards the large Gargoyle. Zero jumped off the dragon angling towards Louise. He snagged her with his right arm while he swing Derflinger with his left releasing the energy he had obtained from fighting Tabitha in one large gout of flame. As he fell, he looked at the ground. they were about eight-hundred feet up. Replacing Derflinger quickly Zero brought out his buster, hoping that he could do this half as elegantly as X, or else Louise might be in for a world of hurt. Releasing several charged shots in succession he managed to angle his decent towards the wall of the academy. flipping himself around his feet connected and he redirected his momentum upwards for a moment before he fell a scant twenty feet to the ground, Louise safely in his arm. Zero looked down at her, and she turned her face away.

"I hate you." Louise said in a choked voice as she curled up on herself. "I hate you and the princess... I won't ever forgive you..."

Zero could only look at the girl as she cried silently. A few moments later, Axl and Roll landed on Pallette. Zero placed Louise gently on the ground and turned to face them. He walked up calmly and said,"Roll, Axl thanks. that would have been much worse without your help."

"No problem. What are friend's for?" Axl replied with a smirk.

"That's true. But still, I have to thank you." Zero said sincerely.

"No problem Zero. We're sorry we didn't find out about it until there was already a commotion." Roll said apologetically.

"It's no problem Roll. You still made it." With a look around he noticed that he couldn't see Sylphid anywhere, which meant that Tabitha had taken off. He turned back to face Axl,"Anyhow, Axl, I'd like to apologize." Zero said with his head angled down.

"Huh? Apologize for what?" Axl asked. The moment he finished asking the answer was given. Zero punched Axl in the face as hard as he could. Axl flew backwards hitting the ground multiple times until he landed half inside the wall of the academy. Roll looked on in horror, while Axl looked back at Zero with a wiry expression and complained,"Now, why would you do that after we just helped you save Louise."

"Well, I did that because you helped me save her. We have the tools here to repair you in the lab so if you hadn't just done that I very likely would have just cut you in half. or quarters."

"What's going on?" Roll demanded.

"Ah..." Axl replied laughing nervously."Come on, I was just trying to break the ice."

Louise had stood up reluctantly, and looked on the scene with red puffy eyes. While she was still angry at Zero, she was also shocked that he had attacked Axl in such a way. Even if she was angry at the princess, she wouldn't do something that could possibly kill her...

"You're the only one who could have shown her that form." Zero replied coldly. "I don't care what excuse you had for that, don't you ever do that again."

Louise's eyes widened. Shown her that form? Shown who? As she remembered back to the ball she realized it. While she didn't think Axl would do such a thing, what if he did? If he did, would Henrietta take on the form of Iris? Suddenly Zero's reactions seemed to make some sense, even if her heart ached more upon realizing it.

"Why the hell not?" Axl demanded as he drew himself up and charged Zero suddenly landing a return punch to the face that sent Zero flying. "You're so god damned self sacrificing. You don't let anyone near you. I can count on one hand the people you've truly trusted. Everyone else you keep at arms length so that they can't hurt you no matter how much you claim its for their safety." Axl dove at Zero landing a kick to his midsection as he was getting up. When Axl attempted to land another vicious kick Zero caught the foot and swung Axl around, sending him spiraling. After he hit the ground twice he had regained his footing and charged forward.

"Shut up!" Zero yelled as he met Axl swing for swing.

"Make me!" Axl replied, jumping back to avoid a kick from Zero that made a small crater. "I'll admit, I showed that princess her form. I let her know how important she was to you, but damn it she's the only thing in this world that can crack your shell!" Axl replied, shifting into an unfamiliar female form with a visor. Zero started when he recognized Layer and that was all Axl needed to land another good punch to Zero's face knocking him back. As Axl strode forward he started to speak,"Now you listen to me Zero. I liked you, I loved you. I worried about you, but in the end you kept me at arms length. I did everything I could to get to a point I could stand up with you. Even though I was an operator I was still rated as an S class hunter. I did that so that you wouldn't worry about me, so that you could open up to me. And I'm sick and damned tired of you always fighting alone! You don't even have an operator now, the only thing you have with you is your damned guilt and it needs to go!"

Zero's eyes widened as he recognized the girl. "Layer?" A wave of guilt overcame him. "Y-you're?"

"In the flesh. So to speak." She replied coldly.

"But...I..."

"Honestly, you think Axl really got better with swords? He's hopeless with them, and he always was." Layer replied archly. "In the end, out of all the hunters I was the only person who could match your abilities with the sword. I figured you'd be able to spot my signature tricks in our little fight before."

Zero looked at Layer, and shook his head. "Wait... You're, you're a cyber elf too?"

"Why so shocked? And unlike Iris or Stormeagle, I'm more stable. I can stay out far longer. I still love you, but I know my chance is already over. But I swear, I will beat that stupidity out of you if you don't let yourself find some sort of happiness." Layer replied, crossing her arms over her chest. While nobody could see her eyes, they could still somehow feel the glare that was directed at Zero. "Well? Say something!"

Louise ran up to Zero who stood there, true doubt showing on his face for the first time since she had met him. Even though she said she hated him, something told her that he needed her right now. Perhaps not her specifically, but someone. She ran to stand in front of Zero and yelled at this new girl,"So what if Zero has these problems? If you love him, you'd try to understand him, or help him!"

Turning to gaze at Louise she lazily replied,"Ah. From the person who proclaims she hates him? From the one who abuses him. From the one who treats him like a valued possession? You should be quiet before I put you over my knee, little girl. I've known him and cared for him since before your grandparents were even conceived!"

Louise blanched at the response, but stood her ground. She felt a hand on her shoulder and looked up to see Zero who was standing behind her. The flat look on his face scared her. There wasn't any anger or even sadness. All she could see was a look of pure grief that made her want to cry just from seeing it.

"You might be right that I've kept everyone at arms length for the most part... But everyone aside from Axl is dead. X is dead, Iris is dead, Signas is dead, you are dead, Alia is dead, Pallette is dead. I'm sure you remember just who killed you..." Zero replied, his voice heavy. "All that remains is a bloodstained history, that seems to hold me as the author. The maverick virus, the Repliforce and Eurasia crises, the New generation reploids, the elf wars... All of the problems could be linked back to one common factor. Not even X denied this. And look at these girls, they walked into danger just to track me down! They won't listen to me, if I let any of them get even as close to me as you... How long will they last? Are you willing to take responsibility for their deaths? Are you willing to try and keep them alive Layer?" Zero asked coldly.

"Zero, it wasn't your fault!" Layer screamed at him. "I was being controlled by the dark elf and Omega! You had to put me down! Just because something has happened before doesn't mean it's going to happen again!"

"You say that, but it doesn't change the fact. I started to let you get close, but in the end, I cut you down just the same as Iris. Make the excuses you want, but without me there would have been no need for a mother elf, nor would she have become the dark elf. You wouldn't have died. We wouldn't be having this conversation. This hand would not have your blood on it. Everyone that I love wouldn't be dead," Zero said in a hollow voice. When nobody said anything, he turned his back to them and started walking towards the gate.

Roll looked at Zero's back then turned to face Axl, or Layer or whoever was standing there, watching Zero's back. "I don't really know who you are, but we're going to have a talk..." Roll said, as she approached her. "We're all going to have a nice, long talk."

"Wait, what? Now I get control back? You bitch!" 'Layer' cried out.

"I don't care who is in control Axl." Roll said harshly. "We're going to have a talk and I swear that everyone else who shares a head with you is going to listen or I'm going to show you just why all the robot masters feared me more than my brother."

"Ah... Yes ma'am..." Axl replied nervously.

"That includes you too Louise." Roll said as the girl tried to slink away.

"Yes Miss Roll..." Louise said, looking at the ground bashfully.

***Author's notes***

Congratulations ZXEclipse ! You got this chapter put out. You were correct. He says it a few times. My favorite time is the first time he becomes a Dragoon. And the hint led to the scrapped princess named person in EvE online. Then you just go and put in Zeferis on youtube and there is the line. The full quote is "I am ARFFI M4 Dragon Serial 26 Zefiris. I will become your blade and destroy your enemy." But if i'd put the whole second line it woulda been WAY too easy to figure out. WAY too easy. Glad you all had so much fun with the trivia thing.

Zero: Who cares about that anyhow? I just can't get a break... Seriously? I don't think anyone else has EVER had me kill LAYER. I mean, seriously...

What... It makes sense. She was powerful. And close to you. Someone you'd let your guard down around. Who better to control and use to try and get you out of the equation? the only thing you had on her in the games was the ability to use the Black Zero armor. Aside from that she was identical to you. Pallette and Alia both BLEW in comparison to Axl and X. She was perfectly on par with you. So it makes sense in my twisted horrible mind.

Zero: Screw you. I'm going to go get drunk...

Zero... You can't get drunk.

Zero: Fine. I'm going to go hang out with bender and abuse electricity! Maybe kill all humans...

... Ya know what, it's fine. Non canon. go get drunk . Oh, and someone called me evil... *gleeeeeeeeeee*

Drunk Zero: Thash reacshun meansh notsh evil.

Shush.