Chapter Restructured & Expanded: 29-04-23.
CHAPTER XI
Æt Āwēdan (Near Madness)
XXVIII • CM Wigesdæg of Sawanmōnaþ
(The 28th Day of Sowing Month, Warrior's Day, 900)
"Before journeying to the Garderobe Ruins, we shall meet with a local Witch."
Viola's statement is simple enough, but three hours have already passed. It's nearly noon and they are still continuing their undetermined travelling.
Their route is pathless, causing Natsuki to lose count over how many times she has tripped. This thick underbrush already dried her patience long ago, merely causing her to stagger more.
Ugh, where are they going?! She is starting to wonder if Viola has gotten them lost.
"We need to find this Witch because…?" Don't Witches dislike people as it is?
"I met her a long time ago. She offers important information and services for various items."
Various items? Natsuki cocks a brow but falls silent either way. The answer will suffice, and instead she lags behind Viola and Tomoe solemnly.
Their trek for the most part has been totally uneventful. The Sprites Forest is incredibly deep. As of yet they haven't met a single soul; only resounding birdsong chatters around them noisily. So much in fact that Natsuki will be surprised if she gets a headache. But, well—she supposes it is better than the wolves or the horse.
That awful, terrifying presence she has been experiencing recently hasn't shown up yet. Emphasis on that yet.
It is only when she is alone that it strikes.
But… Natsuki is conflicted, she feels weary to remain by Viola's side. Yet in spite of this, Natsuki is grateful? How? The Arcewælcyrge is a murderer—she is somebody to fear. Even so…? Wandering her eyes along Viola's back, she frowns. She hasn't harmed her. Natsuki has to remind herself of this.
Adjusting some of the supplies she is carrying, Natsuki grumbles softly. The other two are carrying the same load, so she shouldn't complain. Still though! It annoys her incredibly how they are perfectly fine with theirs. Not once has she witnessed Viola or Tomoe stumble.
Nevertheless, they are proficient warriors: She is not.
That's just it though, isn't it? Natsuki is nothing compared to them—even the castle servants. The more she learns, the further confusing it all becomes. The less she knows, the more painful it becomes. There is never a balance, only a coin toss to determine heads or tails. She does not belong here, yet Viola and Tomoe seem adamant in seizing her.
Shaking her head, Natsuki forces the internal ramblings away. She is stuck in her own head again. It is pointless going over this again.
"It's been a while since we last saw her." Tomoe says to Viola, causing Natsuki to pick her gaze up. "What will you be offering this time?"
"Last we visited, she spoke of Florentine herbs and Mauryan spices. A recent shipment to the Palace has some of these in stock."
"Herbs and spices? What did you pay to get those from the Crown?" Tomoe cocks a brow curiously. Herbs are expensive enough, but spices? Those are worth more than gold!
"Mh." Viola smiles. "The Spymaster knows of our arrangement with the Witch." About to get interrupted by Tomoe's concern, she lifts a hand to silence her. "Ever since the accident last year, we have been trading information. This is how I knew about the Florentine civil war and Galleria cutting ties with Windbloom."
'The accident…?' What is she talking about? However, it's swiftly made obvious that no one's going to enlighten Natsuki what this event was.
Instead, they come to a stop, making Natsuki look around in confusion. There's nothing even here? They are still in the middle of the forest with no path in sight?
"She'll get curious, you know?" Tomoe breathes quietly to Viola who pulls out her Anchor. "Are you sure?"
"Of course I am." Dragging her attention to the youngest Ánhere, Viola gestures her over with an index and middle finger. "Natsuki, come. We have arrived."
"But there's nothing here?" Carefully bypassing lumps of underbrush, Natsuki halts between Tomoe and Viola. Surrounding them are clearly uncountable trees—up until Viola lifts her Anchor, that is.
Propping the crystal between her index finger and thumb, Viola tilts the Anchor. Emerald specks gleam within it, refracting light from off its surface. Ever so subtly, something shifts within the forest before them. But what is that? Viola remains still as a rather unsettling atmosphere forms from the Anchor.
Hesitantly stepping away from Viola, Natsuki glances between her and the treeline. A flicker of an outline is materialising between the treeline. In awe, the Ánhere stares as a wooden mansion phases into existence. How?
Seemingly reading Natsuki's mind, Viola comments: "Anchoring can also be used to conceal targets. It is in a Witch's nature that they will prefer this privacy." Glancing Natsuki's way, Viola studies her. "Do you understand?"
Nodding slowly, Natsuki's attention drifts away from her as the mansion's front door opens. "I think so, yeah." ...That's the Witch? Natsuki is evidently surprised, having not expected her appearance.
She appears several inches shorter than Natsuki and wore a layered dress. Its colouring varied, it ranges from dark hues to vibrant splashes of colour. There is no set pattern, and the closer Natsuki looks, the less order the fabric holds. Wools, linen cotton—this clothing is a seamstress' worst nightmare. Unconsciously taking a step closer, Natsuki is derailed from her trance by Tomoe's hand.
"Don't go near her yet."
But why? Natsuki frowns after Tomoe who merely returns the exchange.
"Yukino—" The Arcewælcyrge takes a step towards the Witch, introducing herself. "It is good to see you again, how are you faring?"
"I have been well. The night's have been clear and studying the stars has gone well. What did you bring me this time?" The Witch of all trades unfolds her old spectacles that hang by a chain around her neck. "You have two Ánhere now?"
"Yes, I support two Ánhere now; her name is Natsuki." Lowering her bag onto the floor, Viola reaches inside and obtains two packaged goods. "I remember that you wished you could have Florentine mandrake, no? I have the herbs and spices here."
"Oh!" Placing her glasses on her nose, Yukino excitedly takes the offered items. "I didn't expect you to find any in such short notice." Untying the leather, she looks inside. "Was it problematic cutting it?"
Viola laughs. "The Palace shipment declared that no one died." Or maybe they did, but that isn't important.
Feeling peculiar being spoken about, Natsuki only continues to stand beside Tomoe awkwardly. She still can't understand why she needs to wait here. Is the Witch that unpredictable? Nevertheless, the mousey woman looks satisfied with the items she has received.
"Come in." The Witch spoke to Viola. Twisting slightly, she also regards the Ánhergas. "You two as well."
Natsuki lets Tomoe in front, still feeling a little unsure. So it's like that? Did a Witch require goods before she invites her visitors inside? It seems to be the case here.
"Much has happened since my last visit." Viola remarks as Yukino opens the door for them. "We fear a Florentine invasion is imminent and there is evidence that the plague is intensifying in the East."
Now inside the foyer, Natsuki is greeted by two routes; a stairwell and a set of doors. Looking around curiously, she grumbles when Tomoe nudges her to continue. The Witch and Viola aren't waiting for them as they head for the double doors.
"Again? Both of those things are yet to hit this region. How severely has it affected the Kazahana Province?" Yukino opens the doors into what turns out to be a great library. "Please, put your things down here. Your journey must've been arduous?"
"Quite." Slipping her supplies from off her back, Viola summons her Ánhergas closer. "Tomoe, the Anchor." There are more reasons than one for why they are here. "Yukino, could you take a look at this Anchor? As of late this greater crystal has held disturbing results." Viola took the chained Anchor from Tomoe, allowing it to hang from her fingertips. "I fear something evil may have entered it."
Evil? Natsuki glances their way, having ventures close but is still standing by a bookcase. Removing her supplies also, she drops it beside Tomoe's and Viola's. There are books everywhere! She swore all these books in front of her are triple her age at least.
"Let me take a look." The Witch took the crystal, taking it over to her desk located in the far corner. "Something certainly feels off about it." Sitting herself down, Yukino places it down upon a slab. Hovering above it is a large magnifying glass which she prises close to the Anchor. "Tomoe, you're the one who uses this, yes?"
"That's correct."
"Can you describe how you feel when using it?"
Peeking behind the bookcase, Natsuki eyes the three. Who is this Witch? Hesitantly moving away from the books, she heads towards them instead. The mousey woman hunches down in deep focus. She watches as two metal rods are used to rotate the crystal gently.
"Hm." Tomoe rather uncomfortably sounds before continuing. "It feels like my head gets filled up by something whenever I use it: Like I'm having a nervous breakdown but not at the same time."
"Almost as though something wants in?" Yukino supplies and receives a nod. Humming, she continues her study of the crystal. "Nothing particularly looks wrong with it." Sliding the utensils along the smooth surface, a scratch is dug into it however. Now this certainly isn't natural. She observes the cracks heal, the crystal appearing as though it hasn't been damaged at all. "Has this happened before?"
"What… I… I don't understand."
Halting behind Tomoe, Natsuki looks over her shoulder. The Witch repeats the action, the crystalline tear sealing up within milliseconds. What on…? "How could it do that?"
"I have no idea." Yukino murmurs, adjusting her glasses. Sitting up straight, she opens her desk drawer and rummages inside. "Shizuru, I may need to take this from your hands. I sense something is dangerously wrong with this one. Do you have spare Anchors?"
"Yes. I still have mine in my possession." This is unfortunate. The seemingly self-healing Anchor is their most powerful. This could potentially make their salvage mission in ruins far more difficult. "Shall I return during the winter?"
"That will be for the best, but…" Angling the magnifying glass away from the Anchor, Yukino's attention moves. Shifting her focus upon Tomoe and Natsuki, she studies them quietly. The Anchor is perhaps the least of the Arcewælcyrge's concerns. "Your Ánhergas: May I read their futures?"
Taken aback, Natsuki glances Viola's way curiously. Tomoe on the other hand seems unphased. Perhaps during past visits this has been normal? Either way, the Arcewælcyrge accepts the offer and it's now Natsuki's turn.
"Bring the seat over there." Yukino directs a jewelled finger towards it as she adjusts her workspace. Revealing a cloth, she wraps up the Anchor and places it within the drawer. "Natsuki; have you ever had your palms read?"
"No." She answers, placing the chair on the desk's opposite side. "What do I need to do?"
"Just relax and rest the back of your hands on the desk."
Doing this, Natsuki briefly flinches when the Witch's warm fingertips brush against hers. Her touch tickles faintly, making Natsuki feel conflicted. She isn't quite sure whether she likes this sensation.
"Tell me, do you know of your past life?"
She knew that? Natsuki unconsciously glances towards Viola, unsure whether she should answer. The Arcewælcyrge merely smiles at her: She guesses this is fine then? "...Yeah." Natsuki confirms, her right hand now being cupped between Yukino's.
"As always, these readings will be done in private." Yukino remarks, dismissing the Arcewælcyrge and Ánhere from the room. Once they are alone, the Witch continues: "Now… There's many paths you can take within your lifetime. Though the creases here—" She gently ran a nail across them. "—implies your past was difficult. Do you remember anything?"
"No… only…" Should she really say anything, though? "Mh. I don't know if I remember anything." Dreams and memories aren't the same. Just as moonlight is compared to a flame. They produce similar aspects, but that doesn't make them the same. "I dream a lot." Having been staring down at their hands, Natsuki's gaze pulls up. "Can you explain them to me?"
"I may." Hazel eyes scope along the Ánhere's face, studying attentively. There is a lot of built up anxiety within this one, she notices. "What are these dreams?"
"For a few nights now I've had these nightmares. I don't know if they're memories or just dreams. It's…" She pauses in her rambling, veering her gaze away from the patient Witch. "It started when I saw a silver wolf in the Sprites Forest. It never attacked me. I think it was guiding me."
"A wolf?" That is an interesting detail indeed. "Wolves can represent loyalty, confidence, loneliness… many things. When silver, hm… How did you feel looking at it? What was it doing?"
"I followed it as it walked away."
"Are others aware of it?"
Aware of…? "No. It's been in front of me and others never saw it."
Is that silver wolf this Ánhere's KEY? If so, this Ánhere is advancing far too quickly. Yukino will need to reveal this information to Viola. "I believe this wolf might symbolise your need for companionship." Returning her focus to the Ánhere's hands, she says: "There is no doubt this new world terrifies you. It worries you that your chosen path might be a mistake. But, because of this fear, you also refuse to connect with others." There is more forming here, Yukino realises, but she is unsure whether to highlight it. Something sinister is afoot. Leadership… affection… rightward injury. Yes, she needs to reveal this. "Be warned, I sense injury: Whether this is yourself or another is yet to be seen."
"Injury? Companionship? How do you know all of this?" Viola hasn't told her anything beforehand, right? Natsuki's suspicions rose, but... Quickly she realises that Viola has only left the Palace without her once. During that time she slaughtered an entire community of brigands. No, this Witch hasn't been told a thing.
Later, Natsuki has been relocated inside the foyer with Viola. She has no idea what to do with herself. How did the Witch know all of that? How did Viola know this woman? Sighing, she's simply reminded how insignificant her existence is within this world.
Natsuki ended up only revealing the silver wolf. Genuinely she is afraid of discussing the hallucinatory horse. Is she stupid for keeping this away from Yukino? Did she somehow know about that as well? Is she psychic? Oh, her head. Hell if she knows.
"Thank you for your visit." Yukino stands by the door with Viola as the Ánhergas wait. "Please do bring them during the winter." She gestures to Tomoe and Natsuki. "I have imbued some of my power into this rune." She hands over the stone shard. "It will notify you when I'm finished with the Anchor."
"Thank you as well." The Arcewælcyrge smiles, though soberes upon the Witch's next declaration.
"...I worry about them. Remember to speak with your Ánhergas, Shizuru. You know better than I what may be wrong, but even I sense it." Oh, before she forgot! "Could you please give this to the Captain of the Guard?" Unpocketting a letter, she presses it into the Arcewælcyrge's hands.
"Captain Armitage?"
Not having heard a word, the two Ánhergas are double checking the supplies. They will be heading out for the Garderobe Ruins any minute now.
Natsuki herself is lost within her head. She couldn't stop thinking about what the Witch had told her. Who could've thought wolves represent so many things? But what did she mean about injury? She is already apprehensive about the Ruins, let alone a Witch telling her this! Tomoe is completely quiet too. What has she been told?
Natsuki's mind can only soar as she heaves her bag onto her shoulders. It is exhausting to think so much, nor has their journey helped. They still have a long night ahead of them. 'Stop thinking.'
"I will hand it over when I am able." Viola nods. She will speak to her Ánhergas at a later date. Though now is not the time. "Look after yourself, the flooding season is drawing close."
"You yourself."
Heading for her Ánhergas, the Arcewælcyrge dips down to pick up her supplies. "Let us move out." She murmurs to the younger two, twisting around to bid the Witch farewell.
Natsuki got moving, but as she did so, her gaze drew behind her to the mansion. A peculiar bittersweetness overtakes her as she witnesses the building and the Witch fade from existence. will she ever see her again? Natsuki didn't like the sudden thought.
"The Garderobe Ruins lie within unoccupied territory." Viola unfolds the regional map which they have used this entire day. "We shall soon approach the Canal de la Rosalie. This old waterway will take us directly there."
Like Viola had said, an hour or so later they arrived at the canal. It is old indeed and many of the stone bricks have broken away. The water is only a shallow trickle now, moss and plants having overgrown it ages ago. Skirting the edge, Natsuki wonders how old the canal is. Who even is this Rosalie? No doubt some prude noble from the previous century. Or maybe it's older than that? "Where does this go—other than to Garderobe, I mean."
"It cuts through the Ruins up north and heads straight to Florence. In the opposite direction it leads to the Argus Sea." Viola says, having them follow its edge. Hopefully they will find a lock, allowing them to bypass the canal entirely. It will be fortunate if the bridges are still secure. "We should set up camp once we arrive at the cliffs. The operation will likely take a whole day."
Opening her eyes, Natsuki tiredly gazes upon the tent's sheet wall. Her exhaustion is overbearing, but she simply can't sleep: An infuriating normalcy these days.
The bedrolls either side of her are also vacant, and whispering could be heard some feet away: "Sometimes I see things out of the corner of my eye..." Tomoe? "...but when I look, nothing's there. My dreams are always psychotic. It's… there's this woman who's frequently in them. She'll watch me from afar. When I reach her, I try to talk to her, but all she does is stare. I… Shizuru, I started seeing her. She was in the quarters before we left, in that corner with the chair."
What…? Natsuki stares at the tent, unable to believe her ears. Tomoe experiences the same thing as her?
"...Shadow figure… 'don't know what to do. Is it the Phase Shift? Am I insane? ...Have you seen her?"
Should… Should she exit the tent? Natsuki feels conflicted, but her internal ramblings are cut short by the next exchange:
"...A woman? Mh…"
"Shizuru?"
"Sorry… I am exhausted, that is all. This woman: Is there a reason why she appears? Are you afraid, tired, paranoid? Again, could it be the Anchor?"
"I don't know… ever since the Phase she's been appearing. I only ever seem to feel better when you are with me."
Sliding a palm down her face, Natsuki drags herself up into a slouched position. Right, that does it. Heaving herself up, she throws on her clothing and momentarily brushes down their creases. Unsealing the tent, she cautiously edges out into the open.
"Shizuru, have you ever seen anything?"
Natsuki freezes on the spot, blanketed by the surrounding azure hue. The Phase has totally converted the horizon with a blue aura. It isn't known when it will go back to normal, nor did it help Natsuki. The unnatural environment puts her on edge as she stares at Viola and Tomoe's backs. They sat on the cliff edge overlooking the distant Garderobe Ruins below.
"A... Hm." Viola hums, gathering her hair and putting it behind her shoulders, pulling her head downwards. "I do not feel it is yet ap—"
"—Why? You're always like this, Shizuru!" Edging closer to the Arcewælcyrge, Tomoe clutches her upper-arm. "I know you're ly—"
"—Silence your tongue." Viola stares her down callously. Her gaze wanders, catching sight of Natsuki who bolts to the spot. Her other Ánhere has clearly heard everything. "This discussion ends here." Rising to her feet, Viola heads towards the forest. "I will fetch more firewood. Do not follow me."
"Shiz—" Making a stand as well, Tomoe sighs and allows her arms to fall limp. Twisting back around, she sat herself down again. What's the point?
Viola passes by Natsuki, sending a chill down her spine. The look she receives has been a warning. Did… did Viola hallucinate as well? She watches as the Arcewælcyrge lights her lantern and disappears out of view. Turning her attention to Tomoe, she approaches her angrily. "So what is that about?"
"As she said, there's nothing to talk about."
"Just like that?" Not receiving an answer, Natsuki's patience quickly disperses. "She completely ignores you! You're seei—"
"—I said there's nothing to talk about!" Tomoe berates, her tone ice as she glares over her shoulder. "I am the bearer of an Anchor. It is bound to happen."
"That's it? Because of some stupid crystal you're sacrificing your feelings? She just treats you like shit?" Sitting herself down beside Tomoe, Natsuki pointedly eyes her. "...I see things as well."
"Congratulations." Tomoe mutters, leaning backwards into her hands. "Aren't we lucky."
Natsuki isn't sure if Tomoe is being condescending or not. Eyeing her levelly, she studies her carefully. Interestingly enough, she couldn't sense any negativity. Rather, Tomoe appears saddens as she stares down at the Ruins.
"What do you see?" Tomoe releases another sigh.
"I mostly have nightmares, but… there's two I see—a horse and a wolf. The horse is… I don't know… it's like it controls my hallucinations." She isn't really sure how to describe it, but it certainly seems like this is true.
"...That white wolf." Tomoe says. "I'm sorry—for disbelieving you, I mean."
"Ah, well." Natsuki shrugs. Even in a world such as this though, surely the concept of a silver wolf is typical? "Sorry for punching you."
They feel quiet as the breeze picks up into a gale. The wind pushes through the decrepit forest, creaking old branches. It is at that point that Natsuki suddenly remembers they are alone. She didn't feel paranoid—least not yet. Glancing over her shoulder, Natsuki peers into the gloomy darkness of the forestline. Nothing—don't think about it. "When did yours start?"
"I've had nightmares for a long time. The woman?" Falling silent again, the elder Ánhere cups her jaw and cheek in thought. Yesterday? The day previous? Honestly, she isn't even sure. "Day before yesterday." She concludes, allowing her arm to fall within her lap. "I wish Shizuru will open up. I know for a fact she's struggling with something. But whenever I ask, she just…" Releasing another sigh, Tomoe crosses her arms to ward away the cold. "Just once I wish she'd make sense."
"And be less intimidating." Natsuki mutters in continuation. Seriously though, should she be wary that she is sharing so much information with Tomoe? The Witch did tell her she hates connecting with people. Maybe she should…?
Wandering her gaze along the fellow Ánhere's form however, she still isn't sure. Tomoe looks as though the world has squared upon her shoulders, pushing her downwards. "willn't she be forced to admit it if we both—"
A humourless laugh releases from Tomoe's lips. "No way will she ever do that. You've seen her in combat; that's exactly how she guards her feelings." Sometimes it feels like Shizuru is just a physical husk. A doll without a soul. "Sometimes I wonder whether a Wælcyrge's soul is stolen. But then the voices—the Anchor—it tells me otherwise."
Voices? What is she talking about suddenly? Giving Tomoe a questioning look, Natsuki observes the Ánhere.
"You do not exist. I wonder what the Anchor meant by that?" Of course Tomoe exists, she's here, isn't she?
Natsuki has never known what to expect from Tomoe, but it certainly hasn't been this. Is she mad? Why is she sharing so much information with her as well? is it because of Viola…? "Why are you telling me all of this?"
"Because you—" Tomoe looks at her, something within her gaze changing. "—Are the only one who has ever listened."
The tension suddenly dissipates, forming a foreboding atmosphere for Natsuki. Everything feels wrong. "T-that crystal." Her tone lifts with the rising pressure: "Does it always feel like someone's invading?"
The Ánhere only smiles at her, Viola announcing her presence at that moment.
"I have returned." Viola steps towards them with firewood under her arm. "Tomoe, help me make the fire."
XXVIII • CM Wigesdæg of Sawanmōnaþ
(The 28th Day of Sowing Month, Warrior's Day, 900)
Before Sunrise
"Something has been here rather recently." Viola kneels down to inspect the hallway floor. Brushing her fingertips along the tiles, the pads skims along deep slashes within the marble. A heavy object has been pushed along the floor: Almost as though a statue has been here. Though this couldn't be possible, the Garderobe Ruins only have one deep underground. A sinister one at that.
"The two of you: Be careful, there may be something here." Or perhaps someone. Wandering her eyes along the corridor, Viola eases back to her full height and lifts her lantern.
This building is more dilapidated now. This is perhaps their final visit—at least within this section of the building. It may already be too dangerous.
Specifically they are within the crumbling corridor Natsuki was here previously. It is much the same as before, except now the floor is in a worse state. How?
Natsuki warily approaches the ditch on their far end, spotting snapped piping and muck. Are the foundations in this part weak?
"Tomoe, check the west wing." Viola pinpoints the Ánhere into the correct direction before aiming her sights on Natsuki. She gazes upon the younger woman through the dull illumination, catching sight of apprehension. It is obvious that she is still terrified of this place. "Natsuki, this way. We will check upstairs."
Unfortunately, the partially collapsed stairwell is blocked by the shattered corridor. It will take some work to reach it. Unless…
Natsuki hesitantly approaches the Arcewælcyrge. Ever since the hours previous, Viola's mood has been fluctuating. As Tomoe said, something is obviously on her mind: Maybe the Witch has said something?
"We shall check the east wing first. There may be another route to the upper storeys."
Given no other option, Natsuki follows after her. "What do you mean there's something here?"
"The last time I was here, the floor did not have those scratch marks." Viola pauses mid step to direct a languid index to their feet. Sure enough, the damage is clearly evident beneath the lantern light. "Tomoe can protect herself. You cannot."
The blunt conclusion stabs like a knife. Opening her mouth in order to disagree, Natsuki relents a moment later. Whether she likes it or not, the Arcewælcyrge is correct.
Solemnly tailing Viola, the atmosphere is thick between them as they start their search. It is incredibly silent—so much in fact that Natsuki could hear her blood. It disturbingly rushes through her eardrums, frying her nerves further. Lost within her own mind, she jolts as she bumps into Viola's back.
"...I sense something." The Arcewælcyrge breathes.
Something really is here? Natsuki's heart leaps with anxiety as she quickly looks around. Nothing but darkness surrounds them. The paranoia created from Viola's words alone sent shockwaves through her system.
Killing the lantern's flame, Viola engulfs them within the pitch blackness. No sound, neither any movement. But still, Viola's eyes train upon a particular corner inside one of the rooms. Blindly reaching behind her, she grasps Natsuki's wrist. "Stay here." She commanded, setting the lantern handle into the Ánhere's hands.
Easing forward within the blackness, Viola's eyes slowly adjust to their surroundings. Now able to see, her speckled night-vision saw nothing in particular. Drifting further into the room, her steps are light as she draws her sabre. The blade ran across the metallic sheath, sounding like nails along a chalkboard.
It is then as she pauses that the presence within this crumbling classroom shifts.
Natsuki, who remains by the doorway, nearly flies out of her skin when the blade strikes. Leaping into the room, her eyes are dead-set upon Viola's back who's poised in position; her sabre above her head. W-wha-t ha—
A bundle of material pools before Viola's feet.
What is that…? Natsuki's eyes remain glued to it until the Arcewælcyrge turns around. "What's—"
"—Back." Viola ordered, ushering the Ánhere out of the classroom.
"B-ut what is th—"
"Slaves."
The explanation releases from the Arcewælcyrge's lips just as the pool of fabric lifts. Looking over Viola's shoulder at the unnatural action, Natsuki took a step backwards. The warning will not leave her, rather, she is stuck in place. At that moment, Viola turns around to see the husk stand.
The emaciated corpse releases a brittle shriek, disrupting the dead silence. Stumbling forward, it edges towards them.
"Shizuru!" Tomoe comes bounding inside, her lantern engulfing them within light. Spotting the Slave as well, she shoves the lamp over to Natsuki who thumbles with both. "Get out of the way!" Removing her handaxe from her belt loop, she jumps into action as Viola cuts into the husk's torso. "There's more coming. They must be the plague victims from the dock."
T-the plague d-id this?! How could anyone expect Natsuki to respond to this?! Twisting around, no doubt about it, two other husks stagger down the corridor towards them.
A disturbing thunk resounds from the classroom, followed by weight falling.
"Shizuru?!"
...Has Viola gotten injured? The Witch's warning from last night barrages Natsuki's skull. O-oh, Go-ds'. S-she… What should she d-o? Throwing the lanterns to the floor, she unsheathes her sabre into shaky hands.
Natsuki's reality is turned upside down within the chaos. What could she do? What will she do? Which pathway will she take now that she has found the crossroad?
"You bastard." The hiss releases from Viola's lips as she cuts down the husk. Disgusting brown gunk bleeds from its abdomen as it gets thrown backwards. Smashing into the wall, a bloodied knife flew from its hand, clanging to the floor noisily. An enraged snarl tears from its throat, the monster leaping for Viola instead.
Veering away as the Slave launches back at her, Tomoe's handaxe lodges within its skull instead: The decrepit corpse groans as it collapses, tumbling to the floor.
"V-Viola?!" They hear Natsuki from the corridor who stumbles inside. Two more Slaves waltz on inside; bodies skeletal and rotten as they heave forward.
Cupping her left side, Viola motions to Tomoe who pushes Natsuki aside. "Kill the rest." She releases a pained sigh as she gives the downed Slave a cursory glance. Dead, good.
"Get out of the way." Tomoe grunts as she swings her handaxe at the husk who has moved in front.
Natsuki skitters away, her sabre still within her hands. "We need to get out into the open." Where had that last one gotten that blade? The undead are braindead, how did it have the cognitive power to use a weapon?
"H-how deep is it?" Natsuki dares to ask, her sabre shaking within her hands as she stares Tomoe's way. She feels completely useless as the Ánhere cut down their adversaries. What is she supposed to do?! She couldn't fight these things!
"Manageable." The Arcewælcyrge's teeth grits behind seals lips. This is the second time she has been injured. This is unacceptable. Leaning her back against the dilapidated wall, Viola fights against the nausea which threatens to overtake her.
This is bad. Her blood oozes from behind her fingers, staining her clothing and skin horribly. Has it cut through the first layer of skin…? Within the darkness she hasn't a clue.
Crushing her axe into the Slave's throat, Tomoe severs several chunks of bone. The husk's head pulls downwards, its neck no longer supporting it. Blood spurts from the wound like a fountain, showering the ceiling. Ugh, Tomoe can't see a thing! Slamming her boot against the corpse's chest, the powerful kick flings it back into the other. Tumbling over each other, the Slaves roar and recoil in spiteful hatred. She really needs another weapon for this...
Whatever.
Twisting the handaxe around, Tomoe struck the husks with the axehead's blunt end. Bones crunch, bits flew and blood extruded from the howling Slaves.
"W...whoa." Natsuki is unable to believe her eyes as Tomoe slaughters the unfeeling monsters single-handedly. She's merciless!
Easing to her feet once the husks stilled, Tomoe rushes to Viola. "Shizuru!" She kneels down before the Wælcyrge who has crumpled down. "Get the lanterns." She ushers at Natsuki whose legs are bolted. "Now!"
Jumping into action, Natsuki panics as she avoids the 'dead' Slaves. Almost tripping over them, she fumbles with the lanterns. She hasn't prepared for this! S-she—Viola's hurt; the Witch is right! "F-fuck!" A lamp slips from her grasp, rolling across the floor. Stumbling for it, she hurriedly returns to them.
"Light them and take one to the corridor. Warn me immediately if you see more Slaves." Tomoe ordered, delicately prising Viola's shirt upwards. As the first lamp is lit, the small flame illuminates the three women dully. It is worse than she feared, she winced. The jagged blade has cut an incised wound diagonally across Viola's middle. It is a long gash which starts along the stomach and cuts leftwards into the side. "Shizuru, can you hear me?"
"Hn…?" Bleary crimsons gaze at Tomoe. Oh, her side! Hissing, a groan releases from her lips as she pushes her palm against her wound. "T-Tomo-e? Did you kill th-e Slaves?" Her fuzzy vision sweeps the room but finds none standing. Rather, her eyes caught upon the hovering lamp beside the doorway. Natsuki stands guard; her sabre's tip aims towards the floor.
"I did. Natsuki's on the lookout. Can you stand?"
"I… I th-ink so."
Natsuki couldn't believe what's happening. The Witch had known something—suddenly, a Slave appeared from nowhere out the crumbling stairwell. The lantern goes clattering across the corridor as she yells in surprise. Unconsciously arcing her sabre upwards, the blade slashes the corpse from torso to chin. W-wh— "Get away from me!" She growls as her flight or fight instincts kicks in.
"...Nat-suki?" Viola's gaze picks up as she leans heavily into Tomoe's side. N-no, she needs to—prising herself from Tomoe, she delves for her blade and staggers towards her. Ignoring her eldest Ánhere's concern, she lands a hand upon Natsuki's shoulder. "Move." She commands as her Ánhergas glance her way fearfully.
Pushing her aside, Viola mercilessly swerves her blade, sending the husk's head sailing down the corridor. A disgusting thunk is heard some feet away until it soundlessly rolls away.
"...V-Vio—" The corpse and Wælcyrge collapse heavily. "Viola!" Natsuki throws herself down to the Arcewælcyrge's side. "W-what do we do?" She starts to evidently panic as Tomoe stands stunned. "W-well?!"
Rushing over, Tomoe begins to pull Viola up. "Help me walk her out. We need to get outside." In case of emergency they have hidden the supplies in the underbrush at Garderobe. "When we get to the supplies, prepare a fire. We need to cauterise the wound before she bleeds out."
"W-what?" Natsuki can only stare as they heave Viola towards the exit. They are going to operate on her here?! "We can't j—"
"—Just what?! This is an emergency! She will die unless we do something!" Tomoe berates the Ánhere. Reaching the exit doors, she allows Viola's full weight to lean onto Natsuki who immediately stumbles into the corridor wall. Twisting the doorknob, she curses as it refuses to open. "Oh, for—" Taking a step back, she kicks the wooden barrier. Slam!
"S-surely the—" Slam! "—re's another—" Slam! The old lock gave way abruptly; the door smashing open violently. "—way?" Natsuki blinks, overgrown foliage now greeting them on the other side of the doorway.
Pushing forward, their joint effort has them bring Viola to their supplies. Natsuki is on complete autopilot as she scours for resources. Gathering sticks—anything that will burn—she piles them beside Tomoe and Viola. No moment is spared as she then rips tall grass by their roots. They need a fire, not an inferno.
"Shizuru, are you awake?" Tomoe has laid the Arcewælcyrge onto her back. Tapping her fingertips along her jaw gently, she attempts to awaken her. There is no response. With concern, the Ánhere triple-checks her wound. S-Shizuru's spiritual energy is too low. She couldn't risk self-rejuvenating the wound even if she is conscious. "Make the fire faster!" She panics.
"I'm going as fast as I can!" Natsuki snaps as she frantically digs a small ditch, then scatters sticks atop brambles and leaves. Grabbing two sticks, she rubs them furiously.
Is this a nightmare?!
They are at the Garderobe Ruins, so surely?! Sparks miraculously leap from the sticks: throwing them into the flames, she leans close and blows the embers. "Now what?"
"Take this." Tomoe throws over a rod. "Heat the end—the flames must encase it until it's white." Attention leaping back to Viola, she reaches for a waterskin beside her. Agh, this is insane! "Shizuru!" Tomoe nudges her shoulder before splashing water across the wound. The blood washes away and smears across pale skin. This is the best they could do without herbal medication.
"H-hu-h." Viola half-consciously peers up to Tomoe in confusion. Where…? Her gaze wavers to the side to inspect where they are. The Garderobe Ruins still? ...Huh, she feels so cold. "T-Tomoe." She pains a sigh. "T-the Anchor, I wi—"
"No you will not. You're too weak for that." The Witch has it too. It's serious if Shizuru's mind is cloudy like this.
Too weak for what? Natsuki's gaze picks up as she chucks more leaves into the fire. Looking towards Viola's side, she got an eyeful of the oozing wound. Feeling all but nauseous, her face scrunches up. Ugh.
It is bubbling and everything.
Instead, she anxiously surveys the rod which is piled to the brim with sticks, leaves and twigs. It is nowhere near hot enough yet. This is taking too long! Viola will bleed out!
...Why does she care? The sudden realisation pauses her conflicted psyche. Why indeed… Returning her gaze to Tomoe, she also notices she hasn't heard a word of what they are talking about. What has…?
"I can and I shall, Ánhere." Viola makes a move to sit upwards but gets stopped. "Ánhe—"
"Will you just stop and listen for two seconds, already?!" The Arcewælcyrge and Natsuki are stunned into silence by Tomoe's outburst. "Lie down, else you'll die!"
Glaring through the Ánhere, the woozy Viola did just this.
She has actually listened? Natsuki stares in awe, quite unable to believe her eyes. Checking the fire a moment later, she notices it's nearly ready. "The rod's almost—"
"I-f y...ou thi-nk y-y-y...ou are—"
"—Shizuru!" Tomoe seriously has it 'to here' with the Wælcyrge. "We need to cauterise your wound before you bleed out." Recognising that VIola's consciousness is fading again, she turns her attention to her fellow Ánhere: "Natsuki, listen to me closely." Receiving her attention, she continues: "I will need you to hold her down when I cauterise the wound—It's going to be agony for her."
Isn't that obvious? Natsuki winces, cautiously tapping the back of her fingers against the burning rod. It is smouldering hot to the touch. "I-it's ready, I think." She feels sick.
Reaching for the supplies, Tomoe quickly found the bandages. Unable to find anything else but a blanket, she growls in frustration. They have forgotten the slab of wood to bite down on. There is no helping it.
Straining further into the bag, she pulls out a spare blanket. "Shizuru." Edging closer to her, Tomoe spoke softly to her. "Bite down onto this. It's going to hurt."
"M-hn?"
Pulling out another blanket, Tomoe stood. "Start pinning her; she's too out of it to fight back yet."
How could Tomoe be so calm during this?
Either way, Natsuki hesitantly makes her way towards Viola. Looking down upon her, the image burns into her retinas. She looks so helpless like this.
Her knee-length jacket is strewn open and the ruffled shirt beneath untied. The fabric has clearly been ripped by the blade; the cotton bloodied and darkening.
So she has to pin her? Easing down onto her knees, she unsurely presses her hands to the woman's thighs. Like this? Her brow furrow; surely not?
"Straddle her, just keep her down." Tomoe takes a blanket and tightly wraps it around the rod's handle. With her hands protected from the scorching heat, she orders: "I need you to keep her arms down."
The tension steadily begins to rise as the procedure gets carried out.
Natsuki w—is… 'Breath.' Pushing the cotton undershirt upwards to reveal the wound in all its glory, Natsuki has to take a moment. Up close within the dull illumination of the lantern, it looks sickly. N-no, she has no choice but to do as Tomoe commands.
Clasping her hands around Viola's wrists, she presses them firmly down into the soil. There is no time for stupid thoughts and meaningless pauses. "I-I'm ready." She veers her gaze away from Tomoe who aims the rod towards the Arcewælcyrge's gut.
"Five, four, three, two…"
What feels like a millennium ticks by noiselessly. Pulse beating wildly, anxiety brimming and her muscles taut with tension, the word Natsuki fears sounds:
"One."
A guttural scream muffled against fabric as Natsuki is almost thrown off Viola immediately. Fingers almost losing grip, she instead brought Viola's forearms together above her head. But the smell…!
The charring of flesh is a scent Natsuki fears she will never forget.
Still refusing to look at the cauterising process, she stares elsewhere. "W-when's it—" Interrupted, the rod is pressed back into the incised wound.
The Arcewælcyrge bellows out in sheer agony, before throwing Natsuki off of herself this time.
Winded, Natsuki scrambles to leap atop Viola. Rather, Tomoe's hand is before her face as she stands before her.
"Shi—"
"I-it… it's sealed." Viola hisses out as she sits huddled. It burns! She will not touch it, else even her hand will be burnt. Flushed, hair dishevelled and breathing ragged, the nausea hit her like a horse.
"Is she going to be okay?" Natsuki asks Tomoe with concern. She has never seen Viola like this. She seems so… so… young? Carefully approaching the Arcewælcyrge, Natsuki is caught off guard when she launches herself at her. Stumbling onto the ground, Viola curls herself onto her and coils her arms around her.
"H-help me… up."
Huh? Hands motioning behind Viola, Natsuki hoveres her palms away from her back unsurely. B-but if she did she might h—
"D-o it, Á-nhere!"
Getting heaved onto her feet, the Violae sways on her feet.
"You can't stand." Natsuki remarks, securing her arm behind her. "Surely we should head b—"
"—No."
"I'll continue the salvaging." Tomoe reports, disappointed that Viola has sought out Natsuki rather than herself. "But first we should return to camp where it's safer." She'll feel far better if Viola is out of harm's way. Here with the Slaves it is too risky. "Natsuki, help me with her. I'll bring the supplies back later."
Viola's eyes fly open.
Her slumber has been worthless and the dream… Oh, the dream.
A shaky sigh releases from her lips as she guides a hand towards her heart. Her clothes… when did…?
Viola realises her jacket and ruffled shirt has been removed. All she's wearing is her trousers and underwear.
The presence of another within this tent distracts her, however. It is Natsuki, she realised; the Ánhere twists from the supplies to look at her with concern.
"You're awake, how are you?" Natsuki's holding a damp towel and bandages.
Has she been looking after her this whole time? Viola's bleary gaze narrows in study, tracing along her features. "Where is Tomoe?" She ignores the question as she tries to sit upwards. However, she pauses when hands press down upon her shoulders. "Ánhe—"
"Shut up, already. Have you seen yourself, Viola? You're lucky you aren't dead!"
Eased back down into the bedroll's furs, Viola is about to resist angrily. But instead, the Ánhere's next statement freezes her retaliation.
"You're afraid of getting close to others, aren't you? Ever since your Wælc—"
"Do not dare speak of her so carelessly, Ánhere." Viola all but growls as she props her forearm behind herself. Pushing upwards, she painfully lifts up. "Remove yourself!"
"And what? So you'll collapse?" Natsuki allows the towel within her grip to fall as she grasps Viola's free wrist. The Wælcyrge's hand immediately grips her collar, causing their balance to tip forward. "Y-you can't even—"
What?
Partially straddling the stubborn woman, Natsuki grumbles under her breath. "Look what you did! I could've hurt you." Checking Viola's wound, she brought the damp towel eyelevel. "Come on, I need to take care of your injury."
Viola is completely stunned by Natsuki's obvious transformation. When did Natsuki…? She could only observe the Ánhere gently dab the towel across her cauterised skin. Hissing in pain, she subdues a groan as nausea engulfs her. C-curse this… Releasing a strains breath from behind clenched teeth, the anger brims over.
But rather than seethe at her Ánhere, it instead aims at herself. How could she be so stupid? The Slave had been obscenely swift: One moment she is cutting the beast down, the next…?
She is getting sloppy.
"U-unhand me. Rem-ove yourself from me!" She berates, only now noticing that her wrist is still being held.
"I've been terrified of you this whole time." Natsuki confesses abruptly as she lays the towel atop the wound. Forest-green eyes transfers to lock with crimson: "Frankly, I'm still scared." Her heart races as she continues to loosely straddle Viola's thigh.
Is the reason Natsuki has managed this because Viola is incapacitated?
"I need to wrap bandages around you, so please don't fight me…"
She has no choice in this matter, does she? Viola sighs and slowly raises her hips as best she could. She feels ridiculous like this, nor does her wrist remaining held helps her situation. Ripping it from Natsuki's grip, she weakly glares at her as the clean bandages are applied.
"Is this right?" Natsuki gestures at the knot that securely fastens the white strips.
Giving them a languid examination, Viola found them to be just fine. "It is." She says as the Ánhere finally lifts away from her. At last the queasiness is fading as she transfers her observation to Natsuki. "How long have I been unconscious?"
"In and out?" Natsuki shrugs as she puts the spare bandages and towel away. Crossing her legs, she sat beside Viola's bedroll. "We've been here for only a while."
"And Tomoe?"
"At the Ruins. She'll be returning at sun...set…" Natsuki's breath is caught as her collar is once again grasped. What is it with—tugged downwards, the Ánhere froze as their noses brush from close proximity. "S-she sai—"
"—Tell me, Ánhere, because quite frankly, my patience is null: What did she say?"
"S-she said she'd return after Anchoring." Natsuki swallows the nerves encroaching on her psyche. But wait a minute, she frowns. "Ask me again, kindly."
"Excuse me?" Viola's tone drops to ice. Why should she; the Arcewælcyrge, no less, have to do such a thing? "Án—"
"Ánhere my ass. Look at yourself, Viola! I'm sick of you refusing to listen!" Pulling out of the weakens Wælcyrge's grip, Natsuki berates her: "Why am I not allows to mention your W—"
"Ánhe—"
"—No, Viola! You listen to me!" Anger getting the better of Natsuki, she points an index at her forehead's gash. "You're terrified of people knowing who you really are; is that really it? Why, why, am I not allowed to mention your Wælcyrge? What even happened to her? What happened to you? Viola, you don't even listen to Tomoe: Tomoe who I swear is in love with you! For fuck sake, does any of this even register?!"
The tent is awfully silent after Natsuki's outburst. So much so that Natsuki fears Viola will never interrupt it. They remain locked in an intense staring contest as Natsuki's chest heaves. S-she… had she just said all of that? "T-the Witch." She kept their stare trained. "She warned me that someone will get hurt and my path woul—"
"—How kind of you to assume what I am, Ánhere."
A shiver runs down Natsuki's spine upon the Arcewælcyrge's words. "As I already said… I will reveal more when you are ready. Do not test my patience. You are either very brave to challenge me when I am injured; ...or incredibly stupid."
Twisting around, Natsuki refuses to look at the Arcewælcyrge as she panics. She's right, isn't she? "When… when will I… be ready?" She forces the question from her lips, the tone sounding especially unnatural.
She hates how she feels around this woman: How can Viola have such a profound effect on her? Natsuki wants nothing more than to… to what? The question remains inside her mind for the longest time.
What does she want?
After what feels like a century, Natsuki apprehensively returns her gaze to Viola.
She is asleep.
Releasing a breath she didn't notice she had been holding, Natsuki hesitantly slid closer. Why is Viola like this…? Touching along ruffled cotton, Natsuki pauses upon her next discovery. A prevalent scar runs vertically along Viola's left breast. The flesh is dented almost as thou—o-oh.
Natsuki shoots her hand away. Viola had said she had been impaled through the heart. This is her death wound, isn't it?
S-she shouldn't have seen that.
Though, as Natsuki panics, she didn't notice the Arcewælcyrge wakening.
Why is this Ánhere so noisy? Annoyed, Viola stares at her, evidently clueless to what has just transpired. "Keep quiet. I am trying to sleep." Watching Natsuki freeze up, her gaze wanders with mild disinterest. "Sleep, or remove yourself."
"T-tell me this, first…"
An impatient sigh releases from Viola's lips. What is it now?
"Is the reason you refuse to open up because you're terrified of us experiencing what you did?"
What? Dark crimson narrows at this bold question. Her Ánhere is a treasure trove of questions today, isn't she? "Silen—"
"—your tongue?" Natsuki counters. "Hush, Ánhere? Just because you scare me doesn't mean I can't read y—"
"—Why is it then, that it is I who has the answers to end your suffering, Ánhere?" Viola spits angrily. "Disrespect me and I shall increase that tenfold!"
XXXI • CM Mynetdæg of Sawanmōnaþ
(The 31st Day of Sowing Month, Coin Day, 900)
Two Days Later
"You're incredibly lucky that the Arcewælcyrge didn't sustain an infection." Helene scolds the two Ánhergas once Viola is safely put to bed.
"But you did well, I suppose. There isn't much else you could do in the middle of nowhere." With just a cauterising rod, no less! "She shall remain here for a week while she recovers from the brunt of the injury. You're both welcome to visit during appropriate hours."
Once shooed from the facility, both Ánhergas exchange glances.
The previous forty-eight hours have been exhausting. Viola for the most part has been totally quiet. As such, Tomoe had taken command over their trip which had been a nightmare.
With Viola unable to carry anything, they have to share the burden between them: All the while helping her walk.
"Bed sounds like paradise right now…" Natsuki mumbles tiredly as they start to climb the metallic stairs. "...How you deal with Viola is beyond me." Hopefully she won't have any nightmares for a while. Natsuki will gratefully accept that respite.
"I don't."
Exiting the stairs, they took the servants' corridor towards their quarters. It is a relief to return to the Palace. Natsuki thought she'd never miss the place, but here she is. She supposes it is home to some degree—kind of. Though… frowning as they bypass a sudden group of servants, she halts in her tracks.
"What's going on?" Another gathering of servants rush past them until the corridor falls silent. Glancing at Tomoe, the other Ánhere merely shrugs before brushing past her. Eh, maybe she is just overthinking things.
"When I was first chosen as her Ánhere—" Tomoe starts as they trek up the servant staircase. "She was even worse back then because she was mourning her own Wælcyrge."
"How so?"
"Nightmares, accusations, bouts of anger." Unpocketting the quarter keys, they jangle loudly as Tomoe inserts one into their door. "She once thought I was someone else." Why did she? Tomoe couldn't quite remember. Pushing the door open, she muses thoughtfully as she slips into the quarters. hadn't it been… Doesn't matter. "She was never stable, but she has improved."
Someone else? "You seem so confident about that." Natsuki eyes Tomoe warily who heads for the supplies. "She never tells me anything. Did she ever tell you?"
"'Course not." Tomoe chuckles wryly. Who cares how an Ánhere feels? Let alone a servant to their master. "Just stop spouting nonsense. I don't care what you told her, but during the whole trip she looked ready to flay you alive."
"Don't I know it." Natsuki grumbles under her breath. Heading for the window, she notices that a fresh jug of water is now on the counter. "Do the servants have access here?"
"Yes. That's why the key room is beside the servants' wing."
Makes sense. Taking one of the basins, Natsuki fills it with a portion of the water. Where are the candlesticks… she didn't particularly feel like sleeping in her room without light. Call her childish, but frankly she'd prefer her hallucinatory beasts going away. Hopefully this will work. "Does Viola tend to get hurt like this?"
"Rarely. I've only seen her get wounds when something's… wrong." Tomoe eases an item from the supplies in order to examine it. This is a book which she had successfully Anchored inside the Ruins. Our Lady's Strife, huh…? Opening it, her expression scrunches with concern. That statue? This calls for research. "Shizuru tends to get herself hurt when something's on her mind." She shrugs. Pretty normal when you think about it. "Remember to check your clothing for Slave blood. I'm sure you understand what it does."
Once that is all said and done, Natsuki is alone in her bedroom. The azure hue of the horizon leaches into the room. Even though it is increasingly irritating her, she is apprehensive to shut the curtains. She supposes she has a while until she can sleep… Besides, she is still checking her clothing.
Stripping off her shirt, she stretches out her arms. Within the blue illumination, she couldn't see any staining. Which in itself is miraculous indeed.
Examining inside the clothing, this is still the case. However, upon further inspection she caught sight of a sliver at the front. Huh… What should she do with this? The cold chills against her bare skin immediately, forming goosebumps. Did it have to be cold though? She shivers, flicking the ruffles of her shirt in bemusement. After a moment, she throws it aside onto the floor for now carelessly.
Next she fiddles with her linen brassiere, shaking her head. Natsuki guesses she better get this done with.
Turning around so the candlelight illuminates her front, she inspects her stomach. She still can't quite believe how well her wound has healed. There is terrible scarring on her gut. But honestly she can care less about that.
Viola's wound instead flashes within her mind.
Still though… how does someone survive their heart getting impaled…? It isn't like she could deny it anymore: she has witnessed it herself now.
Strictly speaking she herself should be long dead and buried. Her intestines would've been sliced and Gods' know what else. Removing the linen and dropping it atop her shirt, she curls her arms around herself.
Even though two days have passed, Natsuki is still having difficulty comprehending it. Viola had been injured so fast. It hasn't given Natsuki the time to understand what has happened. Let alone to process how this will affect their relationship. Staring into the flame, Natsuki's face scrunches in thought. Relationship? Though, again… the Witch.
The question has been creeping from the back of her mind ever since: Should she bite the bullet and get closer to Viola? Perhaps she's insane? Is it concerning that she wants to see Viola improve? The… The Wælcyrge is a murderer!
However… isn't Natsuki also? She had indirectly ended the life of that Slave which Viola had killed. N-no, that didn't count…!
...Did it?
Morals clashing, Natsuki feels conflicted as she stands partially naked within the bedroom. Why couldn't she just stop caring? What Tomoe has been telling her will drive anyone else away. Why is it different for her? She's… Sitting herself down on the bed, a horrible thought came to mind. Is she… somehow attracted to—
W-why?! This is Viola! Half the time that mad woman gave her anxiety attacks! No. No. NO. Couldn't she just forget this? Just… Clasping her hands to her face, Natsuki leans her elbows into her thighs. It is, isn't it? A drawn out sigh releases from her chest which swiftly converts to sobbing.
W-why co-uldnt som-eth-ing just g-go right?! Why did it have to be her? Why?!
N/A: For some reason a few days ago I got a writing drive I haven't experienced since 2009. It is extremely weird to just keep typing without any infuriating blocks. Didn't stop me from thinking that this chapter's crap though, lol. Anyway, December's going to be a big month for me: I'll be updating a dozen stories later this month. Mentioning December, I is actually going to upload this chapter on Christmas. Since it's been a while since I last updated Cyne, I decided against that.
Stories to expect this month: Renascence Redux (Ao3), Gendarmerie Redux (Ao3) and Entwined Empyrean.
I may have more stories lined up; it depends on my motivation.
Until next time!
