Chapter 6

I looked up to the moon and put my hands behind me, "So sure you are ready, Sylvia?"

"Yes."

"After the cleanup, everyone was afraid, even me. It was the first time anyone's seen a corpse. I knew it'll happen, but it still frightened me, seeing once living people tossed aside like that. We weren't allowed to do anything else that day. I struck up a conversation with the girl I saved. She was Ophelia Landlufen, an orphan who was taken from an orphanage at Leiseltania, as she shows potential and generally, Magnum Opus doesn't see us anything else but lab rats. She liked to tend flowers and always overjoyed to see one bloom. We became friends on the first day. I don't recall what happened when we all went to sleep, as we were drugged presumably.

"We woke up in capsules, tubes inserted into us. The leader of the operation, obviously Magnum Opus as stated, talked a bit and flipped a switch. No pain today would exceed what I felt that day. Every cell was on fire. I felt like I would melt into...nothing. Like every cell would evaporate after being torched. We all were screaming, I could tell, but the liquid in the capsule was breathable. We were all submerged in perfluorocarbon, so we couldn't drown and could breathe. It was only the start of the birth of the Starpulse Generation. Sadly, one died from the pain and overload of prana into his body. Opus didn't care, she simply looked at his body with nothing but contempt and had him tossed out.

"It went on for months, almost three years. Of course, as you fought her just last year, Ophelia, the boy named Takahashi, and I were the three left alive. It had been so painful. They did so many tests, so much pain. They tried to recreate the ancient Teigus and have us wield them, nothing at all. They saw that we didn't have anything from the twentieth century called a Sacred Gear. Going off-topic, when I tried to search for that, there was nothing about those, not a single word about 'Sacred Gears' I never knew and would never know what they are. One day, they wanted to see if I or any is a descendant of the Uchiha clan. They murdered Takahashi right in front of me to see if I could awaken the Mangekyō Sharingan, or any for that matter. He died, but it didn't awaken, not right then, not within a month. His death was for nothing!" I slammed my fist on the roof and Sylvia held my arm firmly.

I sobbed and put my head in her chest, only to move it away when I realized that it was in her chest. She didn't mind and put my head back down, stroking my hair as the tears flowed. The three of us survived so long, for two years, and they killed him mercilessly. No emotion, just dragged us out and asked a few questions about our importance to each other, and killed him right then and there. By that time, my strength had grown so much, it took all the guards to keep me from killing Magnum Opus with my bare hands. I tried to use my powers, but she had activated the shock collar-like object, paralyzing me. Ophelia was devastated, but not as much as a rage as I was. I kept crying until I felt drops on my head. I looked up at the sky then seeing nothing, saw Sylvia crying silently.

"I can't stand to see you cry, even if this is the first time," her voice shook, "If it pains you, you can stop."

I shook my head, recomposing myself, "No, I'm almost done. After that month, it left Ophelia and I. Magnum Opus left the facility that day. I wished she hadn't," I growled, my grin growing wide, "I could have seen her disintegrate!" She was startled by my fierce yell, almost a roar. "When they tried to kill me, Ophelia went berserk. Her power was so potent, everything was demolished. It took all my power to defend even myself." I closed my eyes and inhaled, remembering the scene. "I had to risk my life to get up close and touch her to wake her up. We had talked about me running away. She told me that that was the chance for me to do so. Dirk arrived moments afterwards and tried to pick us up, I ran, but when I tried to get Ophelia, she adamantly refused, saying she saw herself walking down the path, while I wasn't present in that path. She managed to have glimpses of the future, I got this 'Force' ability.

"I returned to the family and they were overjoyed of my return. They cared for me for a few more years, and when I noticed my second-eldest brother, Cao Cao as his nickname, as it is Cao Sakamoto. They told me he went back to Asterisk for school. I realized which is why he was absent for months at times. I asked if I could go too. They gave my permission and tickets for Asterisk and had me look for Seidoukan Academy. Ask them to apply and mention their family. I reached Asterisk, but I became a target for money. I had to run and escape, knowing if I used the powers from testing, Dirk would find me and take me.

"That night was when I met Claudia Enfield. She saved me and took me in. She knew I was one survivor od the Starpulse Generation and didn't care, as she saw me as a young, helpless boy. She invited me to her middle school and I was accepted. On the day of Academy registrations, she and I applied for Seidoukan, they knew Cao Cao and accepted me, believing I was as good. I didn't disappoint. Claudia did not too.

"It was funny when her father returned, she really stood up to me when he feared for his daughter's safety. Not as me as a fake, but as a boy. He reluctantly allowed me to stay and got used to me over time. I became another son and another brother. Then that...leads to today. My street performances were simply a whim, but luckily, I got to meet you."

She hugged me harder and my voice was muffled as I tried to pull away. She pulled me away and looked at me in the eyes, "All that, and you see yourself as a monster? Don't be an idiot. You aren't a monster. You are a fighter, a survivor. A very good one. You did not murder, they did. Ophelia killed murderers to protect you."

I watched her suspiciously, "You're not trying to make me feel better?"

She hit me gently, "Please, why would I? I love you enough already. This won't change my view for the worse, but rather for the better."

"Thank you. Thank you so much for...everything. I've never spoke about this ever, fearing what others would say. You took so much of a burden off of me."

Sylvia held my cheek, "I would be angry if you didn't talk to me about this. Especially if I wasn't the first person you went to. I would hate you then, all my efforts and you don't see me as the first person to trust." After a moment, "If you tell the others and they hate you, just know, Ethan, I am here for you. Always."

I grabbed her in a bear hug and she laughed and struggled to pull free. I held her at arm's length and stared into her purple eyes, admiring the shine in them, the eyes full of life and color, compared to my pained, tortured ones. She was confused and curious at my silence and understood as I moved my head closer. She was compliant and kissed me back. I wondered how the picture will look. You know, if you took a picture then and there, a couple sitting at a dormitory rooftop, kissing passionately, with the stars and moon shining. The boy's black hair blending in, the girl's purple hair flashing in the moonlight. Oh so different uniforms, so different academics, but both sharing the same heart.

I pulled away first, seeing her face flushed and judging from the heat coming off mine, it was red too, "Sylvia-"

She put a finger on my lips, "Don't need to say it. I love you too."

We were silent and staring at the stars, then her voice broke the silence, "Judging from this, your other girls need to do a lot to catch up now, right?"

I let out a bellowing laugh, "Yes! Yes they do, Sylvie." She rested her head on mine and I was thinking about Ophelia and how she was, "You know, the one who suffers most now is actually Ophelia. You look at me, and I'm good. But Ophelia went through everything I did, and to hammer the nail into the coffin...she can't approach the flowers she loves anymore."

"...!" her eyes widened, "Is that why she avoids all plants?"

I nodded grimly, "Her power is so potent, plants die in her vicinity. She can cause harm to anyone and everyone. Yet she feels as if she must go down the lonely road. Even I cannot be there for her. Tragic, so tragic. She literally has nobody and nothing. Only Dirk to guide her and her vision of her future."

"But...shouldn't not follow the path, considering what happened to the two of you?"

"She accepted hers before Takahashi's death, believing it'll protect both of us. That's why she was devastated. Then she saw my determination to leave the factor for my failure. Yet she still killed for me. I think down below she wants to leave her path too, but is afraid to do so, for fear I'll guide her for a while and leave her. I never had the chance to say so."

"What do you plan to do?"

I sighed, "Win all Festas, or at least, beat Ophelia. She thinks I will suffer. I want to prove her wrong, that once we had been free, there was no more suffering."

She looked happy, "Then I know you'll be able to do it."

"Thanks for the encouragement. It means a lot."

There was a length of silence, "Ethan, what's your birthday?"

My answer was curt, "Never knew, never worried." When she didn't answer, I turned and she seemed lost in thought, "Sylvia?"

She looked excited, the first time I've seen her act this way, "How about today?"

"Huh? Why?"

"You told me all of your suffering, so today you can put all that behind and start anew. You can also use this day to keep your goal of helping Ophelia."

I smiled, "And it could be our anniversary."

She looked confused, "Anniversary?"

"Sylvia," she looked at me, "Will you go out with me?"

Tears of joy appeared in her eyes, her whisper could barely be heard, "You said it...Of course I will."

"Then we just have to stay together, and marry. Have a few kids. No, one kid-" She laughed in delight. "How about yours?"

"October first."

"Ah, so it hasn't reached your birthday yet, happy early birthday~" She giggled and leaned on my shoulder. I had her sit on my lap and she leaned back onto my chest as I wrapped my arms around her waist and my head on her shoulder, heads touching. I inhaled and smiled, smelling the mango shampoo.

"Happy birthday to you, Ethan."

I chuckled, "Thank you. Now hush, let's just listen to nothing, and watch the stars." We did so until Sylvia fell asleep on me and I ended up having to carry her next to the roof access hut. I leaned against it, with Sylvia sound asleep on my lap and in my arms. As she gave a sigh, I slightly regret not bringing her to her room. But one, I don't know her room; two, half the school doesn't know I'm here, the less popular ones specifically; three, knocking on a girls door at night is not a good idea, especially since I'm a guy and this is an all-girls school. I didn't have the courage to wake her, so I simply leaned back to make myself comfortable with her on me...as awkward as it sounds.

I looked up at the night stars, recalling silly claims on the net saying stars control our lives. Everything we did, do, and will do is controlled by them, by fate. "Fate, what is that anyway? Does it really exist, or is an illusion for control?"

It's probably a silly thing to blame something else other than ourselves. Our human tendencies are naturally like that.

A commotion made me stir, but the sound of running feet up the stairs jolted me awake. I clocked my head against the back of Sylvia's knocking her awake too. She moaned on pain cutely and I couldn't resist falling for her again, "Company!"

She widened her eyes in panic and I started to leap onto the roof of the access hut when I stopped. They weren't footsteps of purpose, but panic. "Sigrdrifa! They're looking for you!" The girl who opened the door bursted out, panting.

"Oh no! I'm coming, Lyynesta."

She pointed to me, "Kichirou, stay here, the instructors will have heart attacks knowing that the student counsel president broke many school rules. I'll call you myself when it's safe. Code is...uh, Panic."

"Roger, as we all are," I replied, heart pounding. She nodded and hustled Sylvia down and shut the door behind her, hearing a muffled shout.

"She was simply in the lavatories!" I laughed lightly and sat down leaning against the wall. A few minutes passed and I assumed that Lyynesta would have probably gone to her classes. But...that meant...I had to go soon. Seidoukan classes start within an hour and a half. I wonder if I could skip school entirely. No, Cao Cao would kill me for that. I got up and was ready to jump down the dormitory when a knock appeared at the door. "Don't panic." With the emphasis on 'panic', I didn't panic and let the door open. Lyynesta grabbed my wrist and quickly ran down the stairs and to the bottom floor. We stopped several times, in which she shoved me into a random girl's room and closed it, making small talk until the people went away. It was awkward, being in a girl's room, but we got out eventually.

"Thanks, Lyynesta."

She waved her hand and shooed me out the gate, "No problem. Take care of Sigrdrifa when you guys are together." I nodded and looked at the time, then sprinted to Seidoukan's general direction. Running into an alleyway, I nearly impaled myself on a spike made of pure shadow. I saw a ninja-like man wearing a mask covering the lower half of his face, but his upper half left alone. His black hair matched his garb, and even the moccasins. were black. "You, boy. Let's make a deal."

"..." I stayed silent and he took it as a sign of me declining, as more thorns appeared around me and they were razor sharp, staying too close for comfort.

"The deal is this: Retire from the Festa and you won't get hurt. That way, my boss can work on having to deal with the other big threat."

"..." He waited for an answer, but I continued my silence and the thorns grew even closer. "So? What will it be? Will you fight injured, or will you walk away unharmed?" Suddenly, he widened his eyes and I smiled, as he slumped over the sword that pierced his abdomen, a warping figure right behind him. However, my own smile faded as he dissolved into murk.

"Goddamn, you know everything, do you?" I felt the tip of a blade poke my kidney and his voice.

"So...you won't give up. I guess I'll have to kill you, sadly." I leapt forward as he thrust and I spun around, bringing out my throwing knife and parrying his strike.

"Ah, I know now. You are working for Dirk." He didn't answer, but showed no sign to confirm. He was professional. He fought at the same pace, not giving away whether I was correct or not, simply advancing as shadows attacking from the side. "He sent you to me to eliminate one frontrunner, a dangerous one. Then, Dirk will find a way to eliminate Ayato, not that Irene isn't part of the picture anymore. Or...just to eliminate the Ser Veresta."

The hair on my neck stood straight and I twisted just in time to miss a fatal stab, not that he did it to answer me, I felt that it was already there. Once again, he revealed nothing. Although I'm certain he works for Dirk. There is nobody else who will do this, although many people can. Suddenly, he stopped and frowned, "It appears my time is up. Someone is approaching. I will get the answer my boss desires."

"No you won't," I replied flatly, making his chuckle.

"You are making a terrible decision, boy. You will regret this choice soon." He melted into a puddle as I made no attempt to stop him. Claudia walked around the corner and looked concerned at my face and sweat, in addition to my slightly shredded uniform. She felt the coldness in the air left behind by my assailant. She walked up to me but I wasn't focusing on her, but instead of what he said. "You are making a terrible decision, boy. You will regret this choice soon."

She held my face and I swatted it away, "Ethan..." She was worried, not looked, didn't seem, she was and I knew she was worried.

"Nothing. We'll talk later. Too dangerous here and I'm not sure if more than one will come. That man I fought is deadly, even for me." I walked past her and she looked at where I stood, then hurried after. I didn't talk along the way at all and ignored her questions, continuously scanning rooftops, and more importantly, shadows. I know he has an advantage as his shadows are pure shadow, not fake aura that mimicked one, but truly uses the shadows as weapons.

Once I saw movement and shot my head up. I wasn't imagining, the man was keeping tabs on me, even when not seen.

Claudia noticed too and looked up, but too late, "Did you see something?"

"No...nothing. Nothing at all."

December 1, 3163:

I had avoided all contact with anyone during my recovery. Not to Julis, not to Ayato, not to Kirito (although I told him to hone his skills), not to anyone. Not even, and especially, to Sylvia. When the usual group had asked me, I acted as if I wasn't fazed by my attack from that day. Truly, I was worried, I was scared, and now thanks to him, paranoid. I worried for everyone's safety, wondering if I had made the incorrect choice to stay as a frontrunner for the Pheonix Festa.

Just before the round started, I got a call from an unknown caller. I hesitated then reluctantly pressed 'Accept' and waited for the threats. There was none but only silence, then, "I-Is this Ethan?"

The voice nagged at my head and I realized who it was, "Lyynesta! What's going on? How are you?"

The silence she gave was not comforting, she answered after a moment, "I know you have the first finals round coming up in a few minutes. Can you get to Sigrdrifa's date spot with me? I...We need to talk." Yes, not comforting at all. Her words, tone, and location screamed out, 'You're in a big tum tigger!'

I got up and moved to the door, absentmindedly going for the arena entrance. Why did Lyynesta call me, first of all? Second, why at the dating place of Sylvia? Speaking of which, it's where Sylvia and I agreed to go if I ever do visit Queenvail. That spot is only between the three of us. I'm unsure if Lyynesta shared its location, but she promised she wouldn't. Third, her tone was worried. Never good. Fourth, she was in a rush, which was mot good with a worried tone and that the fact she knew she couldn't hold off the meeting but must since I had my tournament round coming up.

All the while the thoughts were running in my head, Kirito was fighting on his own and his voice snapped me to. "Ethan! Help!"

I widened my eyes and cursed myself and at the opponents, two arrogant Queenvail girls who taunted and made fun of Kirito. I reached the limit and simply sent them into the far wall with a slap of my hand. I didn't want to deal with them, didn't want to deal with this. The crowd was silent as I walked off stage, once again lost in thoughts.

Because I had reached a conclusion.

And realized something terrible.

Sylvia must be missing.

Not missing. Kidnapped.

Ready to be held hostage, and used to blackmail me to do what Dirk wants.

It was obvious. Sylvia did not contact me herself, if this was a date. There was the low chance of a surprise, which I'm praying is the case, but I knew for certainty it was not. A girl helping plan a date and inviting the other party would not be calling and panicking on the phone. She would be more mischievous, and more sly, mysterious and all.

I sat down on the table and ordered a root beer. It clears my mind and gives me energy, making it my preferred drink at times like these. The girl my height with her hair in a yellow ponytail sat down. "I'm guessing by your look that you found out, Kichirou."

I put my head in my arms, "When did she go missing?"

Lyynesta put her hand on my cheek, "Last week. She didn't seem to be planning anything, and she had no tours. She went disappeared."

"Kidnapped, probably. Enough to get her," I muttered bitterly, "I want a beer. But I'm underage." Lyynesta didn't reply, and stayed silent. I knew it was her because she, Sylvia, and I all disapproved of beer. That meant this was no impostor (which I've encountered before)

She came back with a question of her own, "What kind? I'll order."

I smirked, "I don't drink."

She relaxed and then asked, "If you were to take a guess, who could have gotten her?" Lyynesta moved seats so she sat right beside me and leaned in to listen.

"I have no doubt. It's Dirk."

"Eberwein?" I nodded and she gasped, "Then...where could she be held?"

I brought up a map and manipulated it, changing the names of locations and shuffling the areas. I zoomed in on one particular spot. What zone is this?"

She stared for a moment before shaking her head, "Familiar...but I can't pinpoint it." I looked up and around, then stretched as I glanced at passerby.

"Redevelopment Zone," I told her as I slouched over the map again, "I made the map point diagonally, and used a jumble of characters. We are too open and hiding is suspicious since we sat too long. Sorry for all the cryptic stuff."

She nodded absently as she rearranged all the buildings. "I know these buildings. Some can be potential places for Sylvia to be held, right?" I nodded in assent. She stood, determined, "Do I start now?"

I shook my head, "No. They will be on alert. Hold off for a few days. I'll call you when I feel like you should search. Let's return now."

She nodded but I grabbed her arm, "Lyynesta. Thank you for filling me in on this."

She gave me a peck on the lips and I widened my eyes, "Of course."

"Now, now. Don't make Sylvie think you're making a move on me~" She laughed and I did so too. We waved farewell and I felt the weight on my shoulders rise somewhat. I was unfocused as I allowed myself to walk me back to the Seidoukan waiting room for the tournaments.

When I was accepted by the keypad, I walked into a commotion, Kirito laughing, the cause was Julis and...a tiny neon-green haired girl wearing a pink maid's outfit. I looked up at the source of the commotion and saw...

"I didn't know you gave baths, Julis!" I exclaimed and she hurriedly shut down the projecting images.

"P-p-please, Ethan! Forget you ever saw that!"

I stopped and blinked, "Saw what?"

She got slightly angry, "You saw, you know!"

I rolled my eyes, "And I was trying to forget?" She realized and sighed, frustrated, then turned on the tiny girl.

"How many times did I have to tell you to delete that, Flora?" Oh...so that was her name.

Flora looked hurt, "But Princess, that is my best memory of us." Julis started to retort and I put a hand on her shoulder. She glared at me but my soft look *ahem* softened her, making her willing to listen. Or maybe it was because she liked me she was willing to listen, regardless...she was listening.

"I know you want me forget that, but I'm going to 'remember' to tell you this. If it is her best memory, let her keep it. It's probably embarrassing, but the more you hide it, they more embarrassing it may be. If you just let it out, it won't be as embarrassing. Well, of course, it's not like you'll share it with random guys from the street, but we are all friends here, are we not? It's not like any of us are making fun of you, but honestly, I find it sweet." Julis blushed and this made Kirito smirk and give a thumbs up, mouthing 'Nice job.' Saya smiled slightly, and Ayato and Kirin gave each other large smiles. I turned to Flora, "You look up to Julis, do you not?"

"Of course I look up to the Princess!" Flora cried, "In fact, I want to be a student here and help the orphanage just like her!"

Julis looked stern, "How many times do I have to tell you? You don't have to do that. Since you are still a chil-"

Flora cut in, "I've heard that the student president of Jie Long is younger than me!" When she mentioned that, I saw something flash in my eyes, an older woman around later twenties or mid-thirties. She gave a smile and turned around, purple hair hitting my face and I batted the hair away irritated.

"Maybe not..." Everyone looked at me and Julis saw my face.

"What are you talking about? She is clearly nine. Are you alright Ethan? You look pale." My mind wandered off, still focused on that one image. I didn't understand what it meant, and already, the image was fading from memory, leaving just the end result. A feeling of irritation. I was irritated, yes, from that strange scene and irritated that I couldn't find out its meaning or why that came now. Who was she? Why did I feel older than I am now? I felt hands on my shoulders and opened them to see Julis looking at me, concerned. "Ethan?"

"Nothing. I'm not in myself today." Not a lie. I am completely stressed about Sylvia's kidnapping, and there is this that I have to worry about too. "I'm sorry I made a commotion. I'll leave now." I started out the door but bumped into it, forgetting to open it. I walked out, still thinking.

Where the hell can Sylvia be and who was that person from then? My sister?

A certain student president in an Asian-like robe sneezed, waking her from her half-nap and looked around, eyes droopy, still rubbing away the effects of sleep.

"Claudia?" I looked into the office and saw it was empty. "I guess I can wait an hour or so for her."

I sat down on the swivel chair and made it face the skyline of Asterisk. Admiring the lights of the city, I stared for a while, almost forgetting about Sylvia. Then I remembered, if Sylvia is taken by Dirk...maybe, just maybe Irene got a hint on that. I gave a call and saw Priscilla, "Ethan!"

"Hey, how are you?"

She gave a large smile, "Great! How about you."

"Not so much," this made her smile fade and look concerned, "I just need some help from either you or Irene."

"Of course! It's the least I can do for you helping us both," she replied cheerfully.

I nodded, "You don't owe me anything."

Her voice lowered, "Yes, actually...I do you brought my sister back to me. That is a lot and means a lot. I owe you whether you agree or disagree."

I laughed softly, "Fine, I guess. Have you heard from Sylvia? Has she talked to you?"

She thought for a moment then shook her head, this made me lose hope, and I didn't even need the answer, "No, the last time I saw her was when you woke up from the preliminary round. Did something go wrong with her?"

"No, I was just wondering if we are staying together too much," I laughed, "Seems as if you haven't contacted me in a while." She blushed and told me it was due to the Festas and finals that she hadn't contacted me, in case I was too busy. "Ah, if we are finished, may I speak with Irene?"

She didn't have to answer as Irene pushed her out of the camera, "Okay, that's good! Mind going to check on the food?" There was a hesitant acknowledgement then some shuffling. "Okay, now-Something's wrong, spill it Sakamoto."

I looked down and then up, silent, "Have you heard from Sylvia? At all?"

She was surprised, "All this about her? Wha-"

"She's missing." I cut in bluntly and this made her falter. "I think Dirk did it." The outburst made a sleeping cat wake up, unbeknownst to me.

She shook her head, "I see what you mean, no I didn't. Not at all. Maybe not Dirk too." This made me look at her suspiciously, "What's with that stupid look? You know I'm not working for him anymore! He just hasn't been acting out of the ordinary lately. That's how I know! When did she go missing?"

"About a week or two ago. Her friend noticed first."

She thought, "A week or two...no I believe Dirk hasn't been moving at all during that time."

"Then can I speak with him?"

"What. You want. To speak with the man you suspect of kidnapping? How idiotic is that?" Irene scoffed and I held up a hand.

"He owes me a favor, so he'll tell me regardless." She was silent for a moment.

"Fine. I'll tell him. Also, be warned, not only us are around him."

I was confused and definitely looked confused, "What's that supposed to mean?"

"Erenshkigal works for him," I caught my breath at Ophelia's not-so-name name, "And he also has hold on Grimalkin." The mention of that name made the cat look up and watch intently.

"Grimalkin? He has hold of the Intellegence Agency for hi-" I felt a presence and turned to the window, just in time to see the cat and it noticed also. When I stood, it leapt into the darkness and I wasn't a fool to go and rush to the balcony, look down and say, 'It's gone.' Yes, the classics from whatever shows. Thank you Captain Obvious, because it is gone. Loooong gone. They're long gone ladies and gents, don't try the obvious.

"Ethan?"

I returned my attention to the screen, "I think it was Grimalkin. At the top of the damn Seidoukan main building. The. Very. Top. Outside Claudia's fucking office. Then again...that's the most impenetrable and least obvious intelligence agency for you." I sighed.

She did so too, "Yeah, hardcore, the elites. You give the order, they do it without a second thought."

"Yes...anything. From the dirty work of murder to starting a war, they can and would pull it off. Well, give Dirk a call and tell him to see me if he can."

"Gotcha!" We signed out and I stretched, the call didn't take long and I put my feet on the desk. I guess I could wait about fifty minutes for Claudia to return.

The first thing I woke up to was Claudia's voice, "Arara, look who broke into my office last night~"

I blinked, "Wait...I fell asleep?" I put my feet down and noticing she didn't wake me up yesterday, she was out all night. "Where were you yesterday?"

Her face lost her cheerfulness somewhat, "I was simply doing something."

I nodded, knowing it wasn't any of my business. I stood, then asked Claudia, "By the way, have you seen Sylvia recently? Anywhere at all?" She thought for a moment then sadly shook her head. "Ah, that's fine."

"Something wrong?" Claudia asked worriedly and I of course, denied that anything was wrong. "Ethan-"

I cut her off, "I'm fine, just want you to say hey if you could get to her, me being busy and all." She didn't look convinced, but she knew me enough not to push, as it would anger me and I knew so too, having it happen two years back.

When I left the room, I got a quick call from Dirk it literally lasted less than five seconds. He caught my attention and told me to go to a specific cafe, which I went to unhesitaitingly. I stood outside, hands in my pockets when I cursed. I forgot to get my usual belongings for days when I go out. I am not as famous as Sylvia, but I still want to be cautious.

I waited for a few minutes before the door leading inside the cafe opened and there was Julis. What is she doing here of all places? "Ethan! What are you doing here?"

" I was about to ask the same. I'm waiting for someone. You?"

She glanced inside and waved me over, answering as I got nearer, "Flora wanted to go somewhere to ask Ayato and I some questions, and Ayato got some help from Yabuki, who suggested this place. Come inside while you wait." She gave an awkward smile and I didn't want to reject her, so in I went. I nodded to Ayato and he acknowledged me.

Flora gave a gasp and exclaimed, "It's Sakamoto-sama!"

I laughed, "Ethan is fine, or Kichirou. Though I don't use it much."

"Hai, Kichirou-sama!" She replied with the same energy, making me scratch my head. I noticed the sundae on the table.

"Ah, Julis bought you one?"

"Hai! It's very delicious! Do you want a taste?" I shrugged and she decided to spoon-feed me, which I awkwardly decided to follow. Julis, who was watching for the person I waited for, turned her attention to us and widened her eyes.

"Wait! F-Flora!"

Too late, I took a bite and turned, "What?"

Her face was an unbelievable shade of red, to which Ayato, Flora, and I looked at curiously.

"Uh, Julis, what's the matter?" Ayato asked.

"F-Flora fed Ethan the sundae."

Flora closed her eyes and exclaimed, "Hai! Kichirou-sama wanted a taste, so I gave him a bite!"

Julis told us what was bothering her, "But I also ate from that spoon!" Ayato and Flora didn't understand, but I did.

"Soo...I have your germs in me."

Her face didn't get any lighter and she waved her hand, "E-enough. Flora, what is it you wanted to ask?'

Flora promptly took out a notebook and flipped through the pages, "Oh! I remember now! Julis, what is your relationship with Ayato?"

"WHAT?" Julis screamed and everyone jumped and looked in our direction, "What kind of question is that? Did Onii-sama make you do this?"

Flora nodded confirmation and continued on, "Oh, it also said that if you denied it, what about Kichirou-sama?"

Julis angrily snatched the notebook from Flora despite her protests, "I don't care about that anymore! If he is trying to embarrass me, then I have no obligation to answer the-" She stopped as I had moved without anyone noticing.

"Julis." She looked embarrassed on her eyes ad I could see why. But she doesn't blame Flora, only her brother for this. I removed the notebook from her hands and returned it to Flora, who looked curious and scribbled some notes. A new voice broke in.

"Excuse me, you must be Kichirou Sakamoto, right?" It was a blond girl wearing glasses and the Rewolf uniform. "I-I am Korona Kashimaru, and Dirk is here to speak with you."

I nodded and started to follow when Julis stopped us, "Wait. Why does he want to talk? What does he want? You shouldn't just go like this."

"No," I assured her, "I asked to speak with him. I'll be fine."

"No you won't. I'll follow." Korona started to speak.

"B-b-but, the president said that only one person will speak with him."

"Then tell him I'll come too!" Julis shot back Korona looked uncomfortable and was about to speak when a screen appeared in front of her, no video but sound only.

[Let her come too]

Then it vanished without any other words. Julis turned to Ayato, who knew what she needed, "I'll bring Flora safely back. I think he'll let one person go, but not two. I can wait for you to return."

"So...we meet at last." I nodded grimly at Dirk.

"Same to you, Mr. Eberwein," he gave a grunt and Julis turned to me, frowning.

"Why are you so formal?"

Dirk answered for me, "It's simply his nature. He is always formal to strangers, no matter friend or foe. It pisses me off." I shrugged in reply. "Let me ask, as we both know your capabilities, why the hell haven't you tried for Rank #1? With your power, you can reach the top with no problem. With an idiot like you, then Seidoukan's worse than I thought. Especially with the other boy, the Murakumo. If he's number one with that absentminded look, Seidoukan really must not be good, despite the population in it."

Julis retorted, "Well, I wonder who was the one who sent someone to destroy the absentminded opponent...Tyrant. In addition to hiring an assassin to kill the so-called 'idiot.'" Dirk wasn't fazed at the least at her tone.

"I have no clue what you are talking about," calmly shrugging his shoulders.

She shot back, "Bastard! You have nerve denying it! Irene said you sent her yourse-"

"Julis," I cut her off, "It was only one contract. We have no proof, despite me knowing that he did send her. If we keep hanging on to this, we will only drag trouble to Irene and leave her behind to deal with it herself." Julis gave a heavy sigh and turned away, but she kept quiet. "Thank you."

"You think quicker than I expect."

I shrugged, "Anyway, back onto your original question, I feel it must be answered. I did it to hide the-uh..." I glanced at Julis for a moment but she didn't notice, but Dirk understood what I wanted to say.

"Go on, skip that."

"I did it to hide my powers, knowing its extent. I hoped to keep it hidden in case you send people to hunt me. But I ended up doing it against Irene anyhow."

He leaned back, "And what makes you think I'd do that?"

I replied with just as much of a casual tone, "A gut feeling. I may be wrong." He didn't answer to that and I didn't say more. "Anyway, you and I know that this is not what I want to talk about."

"I know what you mean. But I am not obligated to answer your questions. Or your single question."

"Then, why are you here?" I tilted my head to the side.

"Let's say...a whim. Nothing more." He tilted his head up and looked down his nose.

Julis wanted to speak up, but I tapped her foot lightly, making her still. "Of course, with someone with your occupation, you really have a lot of free time. I have something you want...or I can get it for you. That's the case, is it not?"

"It is. If you want something, you must be willing to give up something yourself. Nothing can be done otherwise. Very impressive. You pass. I don't know where she is."

Julis turned, "Wait, Ethan. What are you two talking about?"

"Nothing. That's why I didn't want you to come. I just wanted between the two of us." She tried to speak but I raised my hand, "You definitely are sure? I don't want any false information or hopes."

"I swear on that. I have nothing on her."

Julis got annoyed, "How does he know what you are talking about from the beginning?"

I took a sidelong glance at Dirk, "The cat. That was part of it, was it not?"

He seemed mildly impressed. "Yes. I have a slight bit of respect for you, you are different. I know nothing of her as of now, if I do, I'll pass it on to Irene and have her tell you, otherwise," Dirk spread his hands, "I have nothing for you to go on."

"Great..." I sighed.

"But it assures you," he stated, with me nodding to confirm. "But let me tell you, even if I didn't do it now, it doesn't mean I won't do it later."

I laughed, "Of course, of course. You probably would."

"I've only seen her in the student council meetings, and half the time, the bitch isn't even there."

I smiled, "Now, now. don't speak down on her like that." He rolled his eyes and scoffed.

"Sweet on her, are you? Now my question. What do you think of Madiath Mesa?"

I gave a moment of thought, "Uhh, a bit strange. He seems to have an ulteri-"

"Enough, you aren't playing dumb."

"Huh?" I asked in confusion.

"We're done," he raised one hand slightly and the car stopped and I widened my eyes inwardly, "Get out."

The door opened and Julis stopped me from leaving, "Hold on. How did you find us? If we had made a reservation...I could understand if you intercepted it, but we only agreed a few hours ago."

He closed his eyes, "Idiot. I have no need to answer that. Actually, the kid already said it."

I muttered under my breath, "Stupid Grimalkin...know it all ghosts." We left and when the car disappeared from sight, Julis turned.

"Sylvia's missing. I figured it out." I didn't say anything as she held my arms, "Yet you believe him?" I didn't answer, "It wasn't difficult to find out. She is a student president, and he said you were sweet on her. I could see it with...Claudia, but she's not missing. I'm also sure you've never met Fan Xinglou." I fell onto the floor and inhaled, taking a shaky breath. She knew she hit the mark and hugged me, "What can I do to help?"

"I don't know! I don't know myself! Dirk didn't take her! Who else could have?!" I cried out and she felt sadness at my despair. A car honked and the driver yelled at us. I flipped him off and shouted back, "Blame the guy who dropped us off here! Just drive around, no cars are around you idiot!" When he drove around, Julis dragged me over to the sidewalk.

"Ethan." I looked up, "I will help you too. You won't be alone for searching her." She turned away, cheeks red, "I honestly think you two make a cute couple. I want the two of you to be together and not to have you like this. So! I will give my all to find Sylvia and reunite the two of you!" I looked at her for a moment and tears falling down my face, hugged her. She was surprised and patted my back as I sobbed over her shoulder.

Limousine:

Korona Kashimaru clasped her hands, "You know, when I went to the café, I saw a cute little girl!"

This caught Dirk attention, "Hmm?"

"I saw another girl with them. She was so small and was pretty cute! But...she wasn't a student if I were to take a guess. She didn't just have no Seidoukan emblem, but no school emblem at all. Also, she finished off with a maid outfit! I want a maid outfit too!"

Dirk raised an eyebrow, "Oh? Tell me more." He already had a plan forming in his mind, one that will gain the cooperation of Ayato Amagiri, and one he promised to make. One to get the cooperation of Kichirou Sakamoto. With the information, he could definitely manipulate Amagiri. But with Sylvia...Rank #1 of Queenvail will definitely be a problem. He saw her capabilities in the Lindwurm Festa last year. He had to be careful.

I started awake, but only because I choked on myself. I sputtered and sat up, and I realized a match was going on. I turned towards the window and rubbing the drowsiness from my eyes, I noticed that it was Kirin and Saya against RM-C against AR-D. Of course! This is one of the biggest rounds, but it didn look to be in Saya and Kirin's favor. But, I caught my breath when RM-C and AR-D started this fusion. I didn't know exactly what it was, but it didn't look good. The power emanating from AR-D was not a normal power...more like an Ogre Lux. Was that what he was?

Suddenly, I got a call and I accepted. "Ethan?" It was Lyynesta and she appeared to be in the Redevelopment Zone, "Do you think we can start now?"

I glanced at the time and then nodded, "Yes. I suppose we could. I have one more match today, in an hour or two."

She nodded and I started to walk out, but I stopped and wrote a note down.

'Kirito, if you come here early and see this note: Don't wait for me if the round starts, just go straight to the doors. I'll be there ASAP.

-You know how'

Once that was done, I walked out the door and made my way over to the Redevelopment Zone. Lyynesta was already waiting for me and nodded as I approached. "I've checked these three potential buildings. Zilch."

"Hmm," I tapped and zoomed out, then sighed, "There's a lot to go through." When I said that, we walked out onto the sidewalk to cross the street. When we did so, a green car drove by and I thought I saw a familiar face. The man who attacked me a while ago before the finals. Before I could get a good look, the light turned green and the driver drove by, not quickly, but calmly.

"Ethan?" Lyynesta saw my concentrated face. I shook my head. It couldn't be him. He's a stupid ninja, they don't need cars. I was thinking about him as the most potential person who kidnapped Sylvia. Of course I will hallucinate. Besides, he wasn't in a hurry if he saw me, so he's out of the picture.

"Nothing. I thought the man who was driving was familiar. I was probably wrong." I was not wrong.

Arena:

Kirito looked at me and pointed, "After this round, we need to talk."

"About what?"

He looked slightly angry, "You know." Before more could be said, the door opened and light shined through into the hallway.

"From the East gate, we know who it is! Give the two partners a cheer!" There was a loud roar and I nodded subtly, not that anyone could see.

"Now, from the West gate, introducing two Seidoukan Academy members, Lily Tang and Cao Cao!" I shot my head to the gate, "Cao Cao?"

"Yes! It is the descendant of the famous Cao Cao, Cao Mengde recorded in the records of the Three Kingdoms! In fact, his full name is Cao Mengde Sakamoto after his ancestor! To top it all up, he wields the first Lux, True Longinus!"

"That's right, but his partner is no pushover too! Her Lux, Gae Bolg, is a strange spear that actually has a set goal in addition to a mind of its own! It's special ability lets it target the heart of the opponent, making this a deadly Lux! Luckily for this Festa and all Festas, this ability in the space-paradox won't affect the opponent directly, but it will still have enough force to destroy the badge. Whoever faces Lily is going to need to be a tad bit more careful than usual. Now, let the penultimate Semi-Final round start!"

The buzzer went off and Cao Cao smiled, "Otoutu."

"Onii-sama," I grinned reply, unable to help my joy. For the first time, I could face my foster brother again, not that anyone knew we were adopted and foster brothers and the announcement made afterwards, along with everyone's reaction confirmed so.

This made the cheering cut off suddenly, "Oh, we forgot to mention, Ethan Sakamoto is the younger brother of Cao Cao! Let's see which brother will prevail in this round!"

I smiled and activated Murasame, "You always pull off the impossible."

He shrugged, "I am a miracle in ways. First Lux? I made the semi-finals? Fighting you in the semi-finals?" He gave a loud laugh, "Truly exhilarating! I think no other training among Sakamotos are as fun as this tournament! Ready to fight, little brother?"

"Of course I am ready. Have always been. I will not lose, do not hold back."

He pointed the True Longinus at me, "I won't, believe me. I intend to win, and I want to see how much you have improved. Considering you've been quite a prodigy at ten, I'm hoping you would win, even if I want to win myself."

"Kirito." He already knew that I wouldn't want to switch opponents and went against Cao Cao's girlfriend. Yes, I said it correctly, Cao Cao gained a small crush on her, but little did he know that she also had her eyes set on him due to his nonchalance and kind personality overall. He never got angry and respected opponents, whether arrogant or modest, they would receive the same treatment.

What made her fall for him completely was the fact that he loved battle, but always requested that the battle be unofficial. He only wanted to gauge strength and get stronger, never for fame.

"Ready to fight, younger one?"

I grinned, "Since I found out you were participating too. I didn't even get word. What brother is that?"

He laughed, "Arara, can't let you know because you are my brother, you should be aware. Let us show the power of the Sakamoto family! Where we teach not just one style, but many for all types of weapons! We break rules, and we defy reality!"

"Exactly. Now, let us start Onii-sama. Don't hold back. Sakamoto Style, Intermediate Technique, Twin Dragon Souls!" Kanshou and Bakuya appeared and roared as they were freed again. They glared down their opponent and their expression was so human, it was amusing.

"I am your opponent this time, married dragons. I shall allow you to test your power to its fullest today. Sakamoto Style, Intermediate Technique, Centennial Kyuubi!" Pillars of flames rose from his sides and burst outward and two kyuubi appeared, their expressions vaguely similar to Kanshou and Bakuya's although more confused than surprised.

I had the honor this time, "Yasaka, Kurama. I am here to fight today. Your opponents are us, and our opponent is you. Hit us with everything you got! Even if it must mean death for us!" They grinned eagerly and growled their consent, immediately breathing fire my way. I leaped aside and onto the almost grey dragon Kanshou. He flew forward as I surfed on his head and when I jumped off, veered to fight Yasaka, the female Kyuubi accepting his challenge with a grin.

"Extend!" Cao Cao shouted as he thrust the Lux up, the spear extending at his command. I twisted in midair and swung at Cao Cao as I came within range, however, he leapt back and I rolled using a handspring to push myself up just as he finished obliterated the area I was in at an arc.

"Thousand Viper Strikes?" He gave no sign of confirmation but stabbed forward multiple times, "Sakamoto Style, Beginning Style, Sixth Sense!" Nothing outwardly happened, but I saw the pent-up energy set in each thrust moving at me, I was too late to block one and was sent backwards into the air and stumbling for footing. When I managed to catch myself and stand still, I used Murasame and sliced at each now-visible distortions in space, the curse of the blade appearing for a split second before vanishing in midair.

I started coughing as the effects of being struck at the diaphragm caught up to me and I felt a foot kick at the side of my face, flying into the wall. Bakuya flew in front of me and coiled to create a barrier as Kanshou flew nearby, ready to absorb the attacks that would surely come. I shouted from behind the midnight-colored dragon, "Shame these two cannot do anything else other than play a defensive role and is essentially melee-eccentric, unlike your Kyuubi."

He laughed in reply, "Yes. It is, but you have done quite well."

I scoffed at his not-so-much-of-a-compliment, "You haven't tried yet, have you?"

"No, not much, but I have."

Grunting, "I thought so. I don't want to use...you know, just what we have both been thought, and our wits too."

"It's fine. If you do plan to, I won't care much. It is yours to use, even if you don't like them." Kanshou and Bakuya suddenly dispersed and I cursed as Yasaka and Kumara didn't. Although, Cao Cao is more powerful, or at least doesn't expend as much energy. "Sakamoto Technique, Advanced Style, Aegis Repulser!" The flames that the two Kyuubi blew at me were stopped about a meter away and flew around an invisible barrier. I heard a laugh of delight.

"You actually managed to do it! I, myself, have never been able to use that." The flames died down and burned around me and I noticed that the Kyuubi were gone, most likely had expended the rest of their power to roast me alive. I ran through the barrier that allowed only me to cross and prepped my blade.

I inhaled and put my experience with Kirin's family technique to the test. I slashed at his spear and he simply blocked, but the number of strikes increased and the speed did so too. He started off calm, but became more amused over time, moving to block strikes with minimal effort, until my strength increased too as I built momentum.

Soon he was forced to back up to block and his smile grew concentrated, and he stopped blocking, but parrying. I didn't know if you could, but his mind works at speeds faster than anyone can comprehend, and as I haven't mastered this yet, Cao Cao could simply stop me. I didn't give him the chance.

"Kojiro Technique, Hidden Level, Flying Tail-Swallow!" Cao Cao's expression was filled with disbelief and pride and he didn't move at all as there was an explosion due to the manipulation of space hitting the barrier created by the True Longinus.

He was unfazed by the power and brought up single orb before vanishing. I turned in time to block a strike and he muttered something, before having an army of armor appear wielding blades surrounding me. I jumped into the air and over them, so I no longer had to check all areas. They moved simultaneously and attacked in such a way I couldn't focus on one without risking being hit by another.

So naturally I did the thing everyone should do.

Charge them.

If you cannot avoid being hit, at least focus on protecting your badge instead of being cut off at every moment when you could use that time to defeat at least one enemy and have some breathing room.

I took a cut to my arm and retaliated, destroying the armor and had to cover myself when the shard of armor burst apart. I cracked my head against another, but fortunately, it also seemed enough to destroy it too. I jumped back into open are and rubbed my head and flinched at the pain.

When I withdrew my hand, it came away dipped in blood. I looked at Murasame and it seemed to call to me, the sword reacting to my blood. It drew my hand ever so close to the blade and the curse flowed unthreateningly, but willing to pass the curse to me.

When one flowed in front of my eyes, I was cast into a vision of a girl dressed in a black minidress with a red tie cutting her hand with this same sword, and her body being filled with the curse as it didn't kill her, but seemingly enhancing her. She glared up and I saw her opponent, a tall woman with blue hair who seemed surprised but amused in the change of events. The girl in black seemed to speak to me, "Ethan. I will aid you, follow my footsteps."

I glanced at the sword and the army that charged, and trusted whoever the girl was. I cut my hand and I was completely filled with pain that seemed to extend throughout my entire body, the pain going on for eternity before fading to a small throb, my body seeming to pump along with my heart.

Everything seemed so easy to figure out, weaknesses in the impeccable summoned army, how I could counter their strikes based on the way they held their blades, on top of that, everything seemed to slow. "Bear the curse of me and I will repel those who seek both our destruction for you. Finish this battle, as your limit is smaller than mine."

I was surprised at my own speed, essentially teleporting to the army and cutting through the ranks. When one got close to me, I felt the shift and twisted so quickly if not for this enhancement, I would have made my spine make a full turn, effectively killing myself. When I land onto the floor, I could hear rumbling at the force and I created small craters each time I use the ground to launch myself.

When I came to my senses, the entire summoned army was gone and I coughed up a glob of blood that sizzled and evaporated as the curse ate at it. I looked up to see the girl from earlier, most likely a phantom of sorts walk up to me and hug me before turning into a spiral of the curse and entering Murasame. Cao Cao's word sbrought me up from my confusion.

"Truly, truly are worthy of the name of Sakamoto, little brother," Cao Cao grinned, "I will never meet anyone else that will have my respect for you. I would like to tell you now, before you lose: I am glad you are not part of the Sakamoto family. I wish you never will. That way, we can proudly state that we have taken care of you and molded you to who you are now."

"How do you know that I will lose?" I breathed heavily at my exertion.

"This:" When he spoke, his voice didn't seem human, "O Spear.

"The true Holy Spear which pierces through God." I took a step back, it was the Truth Idea, something he was taught when he was chosen by the True Longinus. This saps the ambition of its wielder and gauges the strength of its enemy. Once it was finished, many things can happen, from the destruction of opponents utterly, to blessings for the opponent. Kirito and Lily looked our way, Kirito confused and Lily in wide-eyed disbelief that Cao Cao is actually using it.

Honestly, I couldn't believe it too.

Woo! How exhilarating! First 10k word document! I hope you like Cao Cao's link to DxD. I honestly wanted him to be human, but my not-so-beta reader beta reader didn't like that idea, claiming he'd be too OP. Then again, Cao Cao is OP in DxD. Like seriously a human that cam slay Ultimate-class devils!

Anyway, since Luxes aren't Sacred Gears or Teigus or anything, I made the Truth Idea just an ability Cao Cao rarely uses. Next chapter will be the reappearance of Sylvia and where'd gone. No need to worry. She is fine, so far.

Next week, the next chapter for Mere Mortals. and after that, Akame Ga Kill and the cycle will repeat instead of many at once, as it'll give me time to work on individual chapters. :)

If you enjoy, favorite, follow, and a review will help!