Atalanta had been planning this for weeks. With the hectic schedule of Chaldea and the constant threats they faced, she wanted to carve out a day just for her and Ritsuka. The idea of spending some quality time with her Master, free from battles and responsibilities, was something she deeply cherished. She longed for a day where they could enjoy simple pleasures: perhaps a walk in the simulated forests, sharing stories of old hunts, and simply enjoying each other's company.
The day had finally arrived. She had asked Da Vinci to arrange everything: a perfect picnic spot, some of her favorite foods, and even a clear sky simulation in the otherwise artificial surroundings of Chaldea. Atalanta had put on her most comfortable attire—a simple tunic and leggings, practical yet elegant, much like herself. She held a small bouquet of wildflowers she had picked from the garden, a personal touch to make the day special.
With a bright smile and a heart full of anticipation, Atalanta made her way to Ritsuka's room. She imagined his surprise and delight when she presented him with the day's plans. However, as she reached his door, she noticed it was slightly ajar. Curious, she peered inside.
Her heart sank at the sight that greeted her. Ritsuka was sitting on his bed, gently petting the fluffy ears of her Berserker self, Atalanta (Alter). The darker version of herself was nuzzling her head in his lap, a serene and almost childlike expression on her usually fierce face. The tender moment between them sent a pang of jealousy through her.
"Master!" Atalanta scowled, her voice sharp with disappointment.
Ritsuka looked up, startled. "Atalanta!" he exclaimed, quickly pulling his hand away from Berserker's ears. "I—"
Atalanta crossed her arms over her chest, her emerald eyes narrowing. "What is going on here, Master? I thought we had plans today."
Ritsuka stood up, looking genuinely contrite. "Atalanta, I'm so sorry. I didn't realize how late it was. Alter came in looking for comfort, and I couldn't turn her away."
Berserker Atalanta, still sitting on the bed, gave a low growl, her eyes flicking between her original self and Ritsuka. "Master belongs to all of us," she said in a low, possessive tone.
Atalanta clenched her fists, struggling to keep her composure. "I understand that, but today was supposed to be special. Just for the two of us."
Ritsuka stepped closer, his expression earnest. "And it still can be, Atalanta. I promise. Alter just needed a moment, that's all."
Berserker Atalanta's ears flattened slightly as she glared at her original self. "I don't like being interrupted," she muttered, her voice holding a hint of a threat.
Atalanta took a deep breath, her frustration palpable. "Master, it's not about interruptions. It's about you understanding how important this is to me."
Ritsuka nodded, reaching out to take her hand. "I do understand, and I'm truly sorry. Let's make the most of our day, starting now. Alter, can you give us some time?"
Berserker Atalanta huffed, but she reluctantly stood up. "Fine," she said, giving Ritsuka one last nuzzle before walking past Atalanta, her eyes still filled with defiance.
As the door closed behind her, Atalanta turned to Ritsuka, her eyes softening slightly. "Do you really mean that, Master? Can we still have our day?"
Ritsuka squeezed her hand gently. "Of course, we can, Atalanta. I want to spend time with you too. I'm sorry for the mix-up."
Atalanta's expression softened further, the tension in her shoulders easing. "Alright, then. Let's not waste any more time."
They left the room together, hand in hand. As they walked through the corridors of Chaldea, Ritsuka could sense Atalanta's lingering disappointment, and he vowed to make it up to her. They reached the simulated forest, where the picnic was already set up. The sunlight filtered through the trees, casting a warm glow over the clearing.
Atalanta took a deep breath, the familiar scent of the forest calming her nerves. "This is perfect," she said, her voice barely above a whisper.
Ritsuka smiled, watching her with admiration. "I'm glad you think so. Let's enjoy our time together."
They sat down on the soft grass, the picnic basket between them. As they shared the meal, Atalanta began to relax, her earlier frustrations melting away. They talked about everything and nothing: their past adventures, the creatures they had encountered, and their hopes for the future.
After a while, Atalanta leaned back, her head resting on Ritsuka's shoulder. "Thank you, Master. This means a lot to me."
Ritsuka gently stroked her hair. "It means a lot to me too, Atalanta. I'm sorry for earlier. I didn't mean to hurt you."
Atalanta looked up at him, her green eyes filled with warmth. "I know, and I forgive you. Let's just focus on today."
They spent the rest of the afternoon in each other's company, enjoying the simple pleasures they had longed for. As the simulated sun began to set, casting a golden hue over the forest, Atalanta felt a deep sense of contentment. She knew there would always be challenges and interruptions, but moments like these made it all worthwhile.
In the fading light, Ritsuka took her hand once more. "Let's make a promise, Atalanta. No matter what happens, we'll always find time for each other."
Atalanta smiled, her heart swelling with affection. "I promise, Master. Always."