II. The Golden Mandate

"If a miracle only happens once, then what is it called when it happens a second time?"

· Kubo Tite

In my years of life, I never once wondered how the dirt tastes. Why would I? It was dirt – a combination of natural elements and those brought about by every other living creature. Its namesake was reason enough to steer away my wonder. Yet I do not believe that my opponent got that memo.

No, I am certain she did not.

I repeatedly gargled water, spitting it out, only to repeat the process over again at the sight of copper-coloured waters that indicated that I was not doing a good enough job. It took a while until I was satisfied but soon, I vacated the washroom and stepped into the quaint living quarters that I was occupying. As I walked in, I found that, seated on a simple chair, was the same opponent that had introduced me to the horrid taste of dirt.

Though it delighted me that she did not come out unscathed, I did not think of it as an amazing feat.

"You are improving, child." Her demure smile was anything but kind. In fact, I was more inclined to believe her to be the Devil herself. "Shirō, yes. I suppose you have earned that much respect."

I smiled a little at that remark. That is about as much praise I can receive from my instructor.

"Your ability truly is fascinating. I certainly understand why milady is taken with your…oddity." Yes, let's go with that. "Sword, you say?" She asked as she brandished her sabre.

I nodded as decades worth of information flittered through my mind at the sight of the blade.

Joyeuse. Griselda Quarta. 1952. Charlemagne. Saxony. 804. The Sword Jewellous. Belphegor. Its colour changed thirty times a day. Gudfred. Francia. 779. Devils. Strada. Devils. Ultimate Class.

I looked back to the woman whose narrowed eyes were fixed on me, a hint of curiosity in her visage. Griselda was not the talkative type, hardly curious too for a woman her age, but I suppose a demonstration was due.

"Yes." I said as I calmed my mind. "I see why they call you the strongest. Joyeuse reeks of devil blood and actively seeks for it."

A glint in those wizened eyes suggested that the desire did not belong to the blade alone. "Yes, that is true." She responded. "Those certainly were different times. Vasco and the lot oft found themselves in need of a swordswoman, and I never found a reason to say no."

I made my way to the closest chair and took a comfortable seat, prepared to listen on to her stories once again.

"I may not look it, but I have lived quite a long and difficult life." She said as she sheathed her beautiful sabre. "The Church was stricter then, unwavering in its quest to vanquish Devils by any means. Often sending children younger than yourself to war." She paused. "Well, certainly that idea has not changed much. But the situation is vastly different now as compared to then."

Exorcists, as I had learned, were trained from an early age, and tasked with the duty of slaying Devils. In my short while at this orphanage, I had come to meet a few of them in training, and I abhorred it.

Children are not meant for war.

"I was but a slip of a girl once I stepped onto the battlefield. Remnants of the beasts that predated off the war were plenty, and it was tasked to us to expel such foes." Her narrowed eyes glinted again. "I soon learned that strength was a necessity to continue living in this world, but that alone was not enough."

Griselda let out a calm sigh and a light smile touched her lips.

"Were it not for the intervention from the Heavens, I fear what would have become of us."

I quietly nodded in understanding.

Aureate fluttered awake, meeting with the slight of terrors that oft accompanied the emboldened crimson coulisse. The incessant ringing of the analogue clock by the bedside shook off that moment of reverie as I reached out to the object, turning it off.

Sitting up, I let a hand run through my hair, fingers delving deep towards the roots, before letting it fall and slightly obscure my view. Noticing the length, I made a mental note for proper care later, and soon, I hopped out of bed to prepare for my morning exercises.

I took a few minutes by the front door, stretching to loosen any kinks and knots in my musculature, and performed a couple of upper body reps that were accompanied by phantom pains wrought by a wooden sword, courtesy of an overly eager instructor. Although my constitution granted perfect conditions, I found it difficult to let go of this habit that I had maintained for a lengthy period of my life; they are but a nostalgic reminder of my younger days.

Once done with my stretches, I took off into the neighbourhood.

Although it was still dark out, my sight was clear, and I was able to take note of the people treading cautiously. Businesspeople, labourers, students, and store owners; many of those who relied on public modes of transport risked treading the early hours in hopes of reaching their destinations in time despite their fear.

I took a turn into an empty street, a route that is different from my usual, and soon, I reached a quiet, desolate area marked for extension into the surrounding forest. Some had even begun to invest into building homes nearby, but the further piece of land that remained uncharted expressed a different story to my senses.

A rustic scent with crimson markings on a nearby tree. The shimmering Bounded Field, and the stench of a Stray.

I set foot into that area, steeling myself for what was to come.

Upon returning from my morning run, I made my way into the humble living area that connected well to the pristine kitchen, quickly turning on the stove before making my way to the balcony, where I was greeted by a beautiful sight.

Its gradual rise granted the sight of numerous townhouses and a cityscape that were covered by the wisps of the night, a darkness that no longer was accompanied by danger – at least for tonight. I held my breath at the sight of shadows scurrying as the world was blanketed by a new dawn.

It was breathtakingly beautiful.

Arcs of good sauntered, as if knowing that darkness would elude its brilliance, dancing atop the many rooftops, with each ray shooting off into one direction or the other. The people that still treaded the hour were revealed, but they found comfort, knowing in their hearts that there is nothing more to fear.

Brilliance without form, comfort without physicality; such is the sight of the sun that inspires awe at creation, and the source of its abundance.

I walked back inside as a sharp whistle alerted me that the kettle was now boiling. I moved it, quickly turning the plate off, and poured the heated beverage into a cup through a small filter. Within moments, I was done, and I made way to one of three chairs that surrounded a table of simple make and took a seat.

As I quietly enjoyed my cup of tea, I pondered about the day ahead.

Though I honestly appreciated the opportunity to complete my education in a... normal capacity, it was anything but. The Holy Grail War had wrenched away such hopes of normalcy for a while, forcing those fleeting dreams into the recesses of my mind. But my current normal is not what it once was; no, my issue stems from something else.

I dislike being subject to attention.

I could not blame my peers, as I am a new student at that institution. But their heated glares and lust-fuelled gazes are becoming more uncomfortable as the days go. It really is a strange experience, but one I regrettably must see through.

I let out a tired sigh before downing the last of the tea and making my way to the bathroom.

I tossed my stained top into a wash basin near my bedroom door and stepped into the bathroom that is adjacent to it, being welcomed by a reflection of myself upon the vanity.

Over the recent months, it never failed to strike home the fact of how much I have changed; so much that very few from my old world would recognise me. There is a strong definition befitting a warrior, as though my body were freshly sharpened blade, taut and dangerous. An angled face with sharp eyes belying age and experience, as well as attributing it to a good diet. However, a single, glaring feature could not be explained.

I let my hand dig through the vibrant auburn locks that mingled with tresses of alabaster; I was starting to look more like him.

Although the style was different to his, I could clearly see strands of white mixed with auburn, slowly covering the right side of my hair, and even touching upon the eyebrow. It was a messy but definitive proof of my suffering.

But I am thankful that it is only that.

I found out early on, that I had survived within the Dimensional Gap – a monumental feat for a human or otherwise. It was a chaotic realm, a domain of pure magics and mana; one that existed between the three worlds and those beyond.

Yet I had existed in such a domain for what seemed to be an eternity.

The Dimensional Gap stands outside the fundamental concepts and primordial laws of the universe. Time is not linear, and space is formless; it is only chaos maintaining chaos, its very nature. I undoubtedly expressed confusion and terror at its mere concept.

Were it not for the precious artefact within, that domain would have eviscerated me upon contact – no human can survive that. It serves as testament to its unrivalled nature as a barrier and healing device, as it had constantly brought me from the brink of death. Though uncontested as a Bounded Field, Avalon had failed to compete with the nature of that realm, and had bonded with me, becoming inseparable from myself, as one would be inseparable from his own soul.

Although it had failed to prevent the stress that my body and mind had to endure, it had forced a fundamental change within, to the point of which one could claim that I had become something inhuman upon escaping that realm.

And these glaring locks of white were proof of that.

Blinking a few times, I smacked my cheeks to shake off those thoughts, and stepped into the shower, directing the knob to a chilling cold.

Offering the kind lady a wave of goodbye, I stepped out of the bakery holding a package of treats that she had prepared for the day. I could not be more grateful for that gesture.

She is a humble, elderly woman in her sixties, honest to a fault, with a penchant for regaling me with the tales of her youth whenever I came to aid in setting up her bakery for the day.

Sadly, her beloved had passed several months ago, leaving her widowed and I had stumbled into her store once I moved nearby. Even though she was in mourning, she remained adamant on running the store, if only for the sake of the customers that she and her husband held dear, much to the worry of her customers.

It was good to know that they cared for her wellbeing too.

There are days that I come by earlier than usual to find her kneeling at a nearby alter, offering thanks to any god that oversaw her life, for granting her such a loving clientele, and a guardian angel; she does not know how close to the truth she is.

I held the package closer as I crossed the bridge that led to Kuoh Academy.

I had requested to enrol at the institution, and my guardian had allowed me to take the transfer exam, despite it nearing the third quarter of the school year in Japan. I am by no means a genius, but I had worked hard enough, and my scores had garnered the attention of an individual who was particularly difficult to avoid.

"Good morning, Emiya-san."

Ah. Speak of the Devil and she shall appear.

"Shitōri-san." I nodded in respect. "Good morning to you, too."

Shitōri Sōna is undoubtedly beautiful. Her delicate frame moves with grace and precision, her small stature only adding to her air of command. Her short, black hair hanging above her neckline frames her face and draws attention to her sharp, elven-like features. Her violet eyes are intense and unyielding, peering out from behind her glasses with an unbreakable stare that demands respect.

Her posture reflecting an authoritative nature, she exudes an air of strictness and control, governing the school with an iron fist that leaves even the teachers trembling in her wake. However, under that intimidating exterior, she is deeply dedicated to aiding the student body and maintains an intense sense of duty as the Student Council President. Her crisp uniform is a testament to her strict adherence to the rules she advocates for, and this, in turn, earns her the respect and admiration of those under her leadership.

Frankly, she had garnered my admiration as well.

"Am I to expect an answer to my proposal today?" A light glint from her spectacles as she moved them. "I could use one such as yourself in my council."

Shitōri Sōna is perfect except for her inability to catch a hint.

As brilliant as she was, and how she so easily resembled my friend, and coincidentally, former Student Council President, Ryūdo Issei, she is very much like him in that regard. Just as how Issei failed to realise that Rin was a good girl, Sōna would not take no for an answer.

I could not say it outright, of course. But my reasoning would ignite an interesting conversation that I do not wish to spearhead, considering my situation.

"I don't think of myself as the kind to excel in logistics and paper pushing." I responded. "Even at my former school, the most I took part in were mandatory extracurricular activities."

Homamura Academy was amongst the more reputable schools in Fuyuki, but it paled in comparison to this academy. A Devil-sponsored institution that enrolled the many children of well-off households has more than its fair share of problems, with some more esoteric than the others. It would not bode well to become so deeply involved in its matters.

"Your academic results state otherwise." Sōna stated matter-of-factly, and I had to wonder if she should have access to that. "Even if you were to show an aptitude or interest for other clubs, the Student Council does not impose on the passions of its members."

That certainly is the truth as Shinra Tsubaki, the Vice President, is a Captain of the Tennis Club.

In all honesty, it is not a bad offer – if anything, it is a good opportunity to find answers to matters that needed addressing. I looked to Sōna, that unyielding gaze indicating that she knows why I have been avoidant of her. However, I could not ignore this one fact.

Joining a council full of Devils, huh?

"I propose a compromise." I gestured. I cannot avoid this any longer.

Sōna tilted her head slightly, an action that I could not deny that I found cute. "If it is within the realm of my capabilities." Her eyes focused onto mine intensely.

Although I have been enrolled for a month, no other club or group had hounded for my subscription like the Student Council has; strangely enough, none other than them as of late. Sōna and Tsubaki followed me daily, with the latter being more subtle about her advances.

Sōna had been so, as well. But weeks of resistance had caused her approach to intensify in many ways. I remember almost laughing when Tsubaki warned that Sōna was bound to become aggressive in her scouting.

"A single game of chess." I offered. "I have reasons as to why I cannot join your council, or any other club for that matter. I hope that you understand what I am saying."

I need to know who you are and what I am getting myself into.

"Emiya Shirō-san." Unyielding violet eyes peered intensely yet seemed to uncover the meaning in my words. "Certainly, I can acquiesce to your request." A phantom of a smirk. "But I will have you know that I have yet to be bested in a game."

I smiled at her understanding.

"I must admit that I don't have much experience." I said as I tipped my head. "So, I hope you will be fair should you lose to an amateur." I waved a hand over my shoulder and did not turn back.

If there was any indicator that I had managed to rile her up again, it would be the involuntary shiver that crawled up my spine demanding something vicious.

Due to Kuoh Academy once being an all-girls school, the boy-to-girl ratio was quite skew. Two-thirds of the student body consisted of females while the rest were male, thus it was uncomfortable being the subject of their stares and hushed whispers, most of which I caught onto.

One girl, a grade my junior, had a very suggestive choice of words to describe what she would do to me when she got the chance.

It was very worrying to say the least.

I rummaged through my locker and selected the books that I would need for my first round of classes. As soon as I was done, I made my way towards the first-year homerooms to seek out my charges. Classes would be commencing in a while, so I have ample time to visit them.

Leaning by the wall outside of their homeroom, I was subject to the attention of the juniors for a few minutes until I felt a tug on my blazer. Looking down, my smile widened when I spotted a mane of white hair and a brown paper bag.

"Senpai! Senpai!" Crimson eyes widened with excitement and a hint of greed as they flittered between myself and the package I held. "Did you bring us more tod – ah?!"

A deceptively soft smack to the back of the head was enough to draw a chuckle out of me – even though that small hand radiated a strange power and that spoke volumes of the boy's durability. Her stoic admonishment and shake of her head indicated that it came from a place of care.

"Now, now. There won't be any fighting today." I said as I presented the package. "Oko-san made more than enough for both of you."

Gasper beamed, his eyes widening further within the confines of the paper bag that covered his face. Koneko gave a ghost of a smile, an impressive growth from our first interaction.

Helping at the bakery offered the opportunity to study the people of Kuoh as naturally as possible. Given that it is a territory governed by Devils, it was not difficult to come across a variety of supernatural entities, and during one such day, I met the two young Devils before me.

Gasper Vladi is as eccentric as they come; a certified shut-in, and a lover of all that is cute. From what was known of him, he had been born a Dhampir, with his human half blessed with a powerful Sacred Gear.

Tojo Koneko was the opposite; a stoic slip of a girl who was nigh unapproachable despite being the school's mascot. She was born a Nekomata before circumstances led her into the life of devildom.

I could not help but worry for these children despite their nature.

"Here." I said as I passed the package to them. "Don't eat them all at the same time. They are the best batch of the day."

I watched on as the two excitedly picked at the high-quality pastries with a light smile.

Gasper shot to my torso to express his thanks, catching me by surprise, while Koneko tugged at my blazer, her mouth full and stuff with a dango stick. She nodded her head in appreciation, and I patted it in return.

I never had a sweet tooth for about as long as I could remember. My father, too, was not sold on anything that did not offer nutrition, so he taught me what he had learned over the years, but it was barely passable as food. Fortunately for us, I learned that I had a knack for cooking.

Oko, though disturbed at the prospect, soon accepted that pastries were simply not for me. Instead, she gave me packages each day to share with whomever I wanted to befriend, and as it turned out, I was quite friendly with her favoured customers.

I glanced at the nearby clock, realising that classes were soon to commence. I bid farewell to the pair and made my way to my homeroom.

It was during lunch break that I sensed a disturbance; the sensation of pins pricking at my bare skin and slight shiver than ran up my spine indicated an unholy nature that affected the world. The squeals from a group of girls nearby as they experienced a sudden cold, a boy tripping on his feet and a flock of birds flying in the opposite direction, were proof of that sentiment.

Sixteen.

I located the source to be the presence of Devils towards the edge of the school grounds where the old school building, the one which was frequented by the Occult Research Club, was located. Though their nature was thinly veiled by the Bounded Field that surrounded the building, the sudden appearance of several Devils had rearing side effects in the immediate area.

I glanced in the direction of the clubroom before averting my eyes; they are not a threat.

Although this world was further developed in Magic than my own, most individuals of the moonlit world were, for the lack of a better term, lax. Hubris oft led to the belief that they are better, mightier, or more skilled than most, leading to a glaring weakness in their protective measures against potential threats.

I stood as a testament to that fact; that I continued to live a life within their territory, with none the wiser of my nature. Granted, I had taken measures to ensure that my truth stays hidden, but it was worrying, nonetheless – especially for a race so versed in Magic.

Having experienced a small-scale war, I had learned and found value in protecting oneself. Bounded Fields and Defensive Magic were as important and valuable as any offensive magic. My apartment is one such place that prevents any kinds of infiltration but remained natural enough to not spark an interest from other entities.

Kuoh Town was surrounded by a Bounded Field whose function was akin to a sensor for the supernatural than a prevention of entry. That means that the heirs are confident enough in their ability to dispatch unwelcomed parties, but that is reckless. Chances of the enemy wreaking havoc within the city were slim, so slim that none attempted to.

I may be wrong in my presumptions, but one cannot be too certain in the moonlit world.

"Oi, Emiya-senpai." A voice called to me. I looked up and found Genshiro Saji approaching me. "I've been looking for you all over the school."

"Hmm?" I hummed as I closed the book that I held in my hand. "Oh, Saji. Is there something you need?"

He took a moment to catch his breath, the sweat on his brow indicating his exhaustion. There were specs of dust on his uniform – Sōna will not agree with that – that made it look like he had fallen over. However, his current state of dress mattered little to him the moment we locked eyes. I smiled a little – he must have run over here at his master's behest.

I had met the boy a while ago, during one of my not-so-subtle retreats from the Student Council. I have sensed his dislike for me ever since then, for causing his master to act out of character on more than one occasion.

"Look." Saji gazed intently. "I don't know what you said to Kaichō this time, but she wants you in the office right now."

I followed the boy in an awkward silence, wondering how long it would take to settle the matter with Sōna. Lunch Break is an hour long, so I doubt I will have enough time to continue with my reading.

Saji glanced over a few times as though he had words for me, but either did not know how to express them or it was likely that he had been warned not to say a thing. Given that I was about to meet with his master, it was in their best interest to not aggravate me.

But I do not mind, really. Their efforts to recruit me were quite amusing.

"So, how is second year treating you?" I asked suddenly.

Saji sputtered in surprise, confusion written on his face. "Wha?" He said as he glanced over. "How do you mean?"

I offered a shrug, an act that drew a sense of amusement from the boy. "I remember having a tough time with it. I always did well with science and calculus, but history and languages were a bit difficult for me." I chuckled lightly. "I was fortunate enough to have an English teacher who always kept me on my toes."

Taiga's unexpected quizzes were as unpredictable as Berserker's frenzied manner of battle. She was the reason that I managed to advance through most of my literary subjects throughout middle and high school.

Saji shrugged as he reached for the doors. "It's okay, I guess. I'm actually doing much better lately thanks to the girls here." He paused. "Although I don't think joining us will help your grades by much, at least consider it." He turned to offer a smile. "If only for the company."

Saji walked in and stood to the side, allowing me to follow in.

The Student Council Office has lofty ceilings and narrow windows, a design reminiscent of Victorian castles, which allowed as little natural light as possible. Intricate tapestries adorned the walls, hanging over dark wood floors that were polished to a shine, contrasting the rich mahogany tables piled with paperwork that are stationed in the room.

At the centre of the room sits a grand table with a velvet chair at its head, fitting for a President. Unlike the other stations, the President's table was adorned with a chessboard of excellent quality and a seat drawn expectantly of my presence, to which I quietly made my way to the seat with her intense eyes following my every movement.

Sōna gestured to the board. "Emiya- kun." Maybe, her hubris is warranted here. "It has been a very long time since I have been challenged by anyone like this."

I hummed as I assessed the pieces on the board before reaching for the king and laying it flat, signifying my resignation.

"I resign. There is no feasible way that I can defeat a genius in this field." I smiled as Sōna narrowed her gaze. "Instead of a game in which I am sure to lose, I'd rather prefer to have a conversation." My lips thinned. "Just the two of us, Shitōri-san."

It was a visceral moment when that sensation reached me - the intent of her peerage was palpable, instinctual, and belying of danger. This further hammered home the conclusive evidence of which I had gathered; Shitōri Sōna has never truly been alone.

No, not once.

"You are quite bold, Emiya- san." She must feel insulted. "However, I suppose that you are correct in your assessment."

Sōna's sharp glance met Tsubaki's mismatched eyes in silent communication. Following her master's request, she whispered instructions to the others before leading them out. As she closed the door, brows furrowed in curiosity, contrasting her usual inexpression.

As I settled into the seat, I was met with a piercing gaze from the owner of the violet orbs in front of me. Her emotions were veiled, but a glimmer of curiosity peeked through the irritation that she had expressed earlier.

"What is it that you wish to speak with me, Emiya-san?" Her gaze narrowed. "It is not often that I get to discuss a thing without the presence of the rest of the Council. Especially not during a matter of recruitment."

"What is your favourite food?" I asked and she blinked. "It's just that I have never seen you eating anything while on campus grounds, you know? I've become curious about that."

Sōna merely stared owlishly.

Okay, maybe I should not have been so forward, I mused. Of the many ways in which I could have eased into this conversation, there were better and less awkward ones for sure. But even as strange as my question is, it matters.

Just being able to meet with this girl alone matters.

"Sweets." She said sceptically. "I am not really particular with my preferences, but I have recently found a liking for dango."

"Oh?" I hummed as I reached into my bag. "Speaking of dango, I happen to have a few left over from today's selection." I presented a small package. "I sometimes help out at a bakery close to where I stay and the owner there believes I should share with people I would like to be friends with."

I placed an extra package that I had kept from Gasper and Koneko in fear of them eating it all. The two were capable of sniffing out extra sweets, so I had left them in my locker for safe keeping.

"Friends?" She raised an eyebrow as she assessed the confectionaries before her. "Is that why you requested for the others to leave?" Her lips upturned slightly. "Rather selfish of you, Emiya-san."

I smiled as I watched her reach for one. "I'd rather not instigate a battle here." I said as I recalled fond memories of my home. "Is it to your liking?"

Sōna took a bite into the confectionary and let out a calm sigh of wonder. Her shoulders loosened and her visage, although remaining stoic, expressed a sense of comfort as she enjoyed the treat. It made me see her in a different light; it made her more human.

"Although I find the treat awfully delicious –" She loves it. "I do not believe that it has the effect of making friends." Sōna quickly composed herself into a neutral state. "I am not one to be swayed like those first years that have become attached to you."

"Of course. I never imagined it to be that easy." I smiled. "But it is good to know something more personal about you, Shitōri-san."

Her violet eyes widened so minutely; I would have missed it had my attention not been fixed on her. "How amusing." She said, a ghost of a smile dancing upon her lips.

"I do try." I said, trying to sound as boastful as possible. "Although, I have to admit, I did have reservations about your council when I first arrived here, I think that they are unfounded now."

"Oh?" Sōna peered curiously. "How so?"

"At the very least, I know that you're not a monster." I laughed lightly. "The students and teachers may fear you because of your strict standards, but they speak kindly of you – at least the good ones do." I added a smile as I peered into those violet eyes. "Not once have I heard ill words of this academy. That alone speaks volumes of your care for others and how their well-being reflects upon the people of this town."

That is the truth.

Despite my reservations for Devils and their nature, the ones who inhabit this town, particularly those aligned with the powerful the Gremory and Sitri heirs, are well-regarded members of society. Not only do they lead exemplary lives, but they also take it upon themselves to protect the people of this town from roaming Strays and other dangerous inhabitants of the moonlit world.

It is an effort worthy of praise.

Meanwhile, Sōna's reaction to my words was far from my expectations. She removed her spectacles with a tug and gripped the bridge of her nose, a clear sign of frustration and disapproval. But anyone who knew her well, as I later would, would understand that this was merely a mask for the intense surprise and shock that she was feeling.

"I keep finding it difficult to not like you, Emiya-san." Sōna gazed at me, a small smile settled on her lips and her eyes lacking the usual intensity, a very human expression. "Thank you. Your praise really does show that our efforts are not in vain."

I smiled kindly, knowing how true those words are.

Being the younger sister of a Satan certainly had its advantages, but it also came with a crutch, so to speak. Fame or infamy, power and authority, safety – all were amongst the privileges gifted those born into better households. But that, in itself, is where the problem lies; a lack of growing space leads to a life of failure.

Sitri Sōna had migrated to the human world to lead a unique life, and she is doing well for herself.

"I take it that these last few weeks were spent in study of that?" She mused. "Is that why you are now willing to join us, even at the cost of annoying me?"

I chuckled at her words. "Yes." I flickered my hand amusedly. "I also found it fun to mess with you. Kaichō and Saji really had the best reactions to my excuses." I said as I laughed.

Sōna, surprisingly, rolled her eyes and let out a very faint chuckle.

"I do hope that you will conduct yourself accordingly, Emiya-san." She said as she put on her spectacles. "And I do wish you success on your mission to make friends through confectionaries."

I stood up and made my way to the door before glancing over to my new boss.

"I'll be seeing you tomorrow then, Kaichō."

I walked into the office and found the President wiping her spectacles with an incredibly amused expression.

"How did it go?" I asked. "While I had the chance to speak with him during classes, I wonder what it is that made you go for him this desperately, Sōna."

Sitri Sōna's violet eyes peered with such intensity that they reflected the dark depths of her Sin.

"He exceeded my expectations." She said with an eerie smile, her tone shifting to something stranger. "At the very least, I know that you are not a monster."

I bristled at the wrongness of those words, my hand twitching in anticipation of fixing this mistake. It would be quick and efficient, leaving Emiya Shiro none the wiser of his knowledge about us.

"Do you think he suspects?" I said urgently. "Is that not a risk?"

Sōna waved me off. "Even if he does suspect something, it must be on an intuitive level. It is difficult to fully hide my nature." Her eyes narrowed as she continued. "He does not seem to have any inclination to the moonlit world, nor did he seem to react to their outrage earlier. He must be completely human."

I took the seat in front of Sōna, thoughts racing through my mind.

While we had no reason to not trust him, we had neither the reason to. Neither Sōna's enchanted spectacles nor my mirrors were able to truly discern what he is - a concept that is both curious and unsettling.

"He could even be an agent of the Church for all we know." I whispered, trying not to let my worry show. "Their faction, which has always been ruthless to our kind, have been quite active as of late."

"Tsubaki. You worry too much." Sōna's gaze hardened. "On the very slim chance that he is of the Church, I doubt that he would willingly align himself with us." Her tone held a hint of doubt. "Their kind are not usually reasonable."

So, he accepted. "I see." I nodded. "I suppose that this way, we will have a better chance at discovering who and what he is."

Sōna nodded as she reached for a specific document on the table. On it was a small profile photograph of one Emiya Shiro and all the information that the academy has on him. Most of it was blank – his family, background and his overall history remained shrouded in mystery. All except for his personal attributes and legal guardian; Gabriel Levannah.

A large red stamp stating APPROVED let those secrets lay to rest.

Rias Gremory is a woman of many qualities, but "weary" is not one that comes to mind when thinking of her.

Despite her usual elegant and poised appearance, radiating an alluring and intoxicating energy belying her nature, her eyes told a different story. Within their depths, there lies a hint of reluctance, a vulnerability that I had not witnessed in the few weeks since our acquaintance.

To Devils, weakness is considered repulsive, an undesirable trait. Theirs is not a society built upon kindness towards others, but strength. Strength is the only currency that matters, the single factor that decides whether one can or cannot.

It is the reason the Underworld is ruled by the most powerful of Devils. Because, without an iron fist, their realm is bound to fall into a chaos which would spread to other factions, descending the world into madness.

That cannot be allowed to happen again.

"Your calculations are a little off here." I indicated on her sheet of paper. "You are supposed to calculate the mass of the object instead of volume."

Rias' eyes perked up. "Oh, sorry." Her response was dull, lacking her usual charm.

Our science teacher had paired us together for a project, and by her admission, in hopes that I could become further acquainted with the other students considering that I am a transferee. It was a fair assessment, but it left a sour taste once I smelled a very faint scent of ruin, a power belonging to the one seated in front of me.

Rias, however, seemed thrilled at the prospect, and we had become surprisingly well acquainted, to the point that we could possibly call each other friends. However, in the days following the appearance of that group of mysterious Devils, she has not been the same.

"Let's end it here for today, Gremory-san." I offered. "We can continue after the weekend."

Her hazy blue eyes peered curiously, bringing light to the slight creases beneath and the reluctance swarming in them. It was as though she had been pushed into a corner by a predator, unsure of her next course of action; indeed, it must be those Devils.

That weakness, however, soon disappeared, replaced by faux confidence.

"Very well." She acquiesced. "Will we manage to prepare in time for the presentation?"

I smiled. "It'll be fine. I can manage some of your weight if it becomes necessary." I tilted my head a bit. "Are you well?"

Her eyes hazed over for but a fleeting moment, but that uncertainty was replaced with a beautiful smile.

"I am. Thank you." She twirled a lock of hair around her finger. "It seems that the rumours of your nature are true, Emiya-kun."

I nearly laughed aloud before quickly reminding myself that we are in a library. Noise is considered a cardinal sin within this sanctuary, and I for one would not commit it.

A chuckle did escape me though.

"I thought that you would know me well enough by now to not rely on rumours." I whispered conspiratorially, eyes darting left and right.

With humour dancing in her eyes, her lips stretched into something devilish.

"While that is true, I have found it difficult to ignore our cute underclassmen as they sing praises about 'Emiya-senpai!' every other day." Rias giggled lightly. "If it weren't for the fact that you are now a member of the Student Council, I'd imagine that you are creating your own faction within the school."

I chuckled as I pictured little Gasper running around the campus, head covered with a brown bag, telling everyone he comes across that, should they follow me, they will also gain access to my inventory of pastries daily.

"Who knows? Maybe that would be reason enough to retire from the Council." I commented while glancing towards the clock overhead. "I know of a nice coffee house close to the school. I'll treat you."

Rias raised an eyebrow before mulling on my suggestion. Several long moments dragged on, a sharp nail tapping onto the wooden desk in an unfamiliar rhythm. It was intentional, but I would humour her.

"How could I say no?"

As we made our way out of campus, we chatted about anything that came to our minds, but we soon started to discuss prospective events that were being planned.

While it did not come as a surprise, considering that she was royalty, given that her family held a great deal of influence, allowing her to know matters which the average student would not was rather depriving her of an average experience. Granted, Sōna is the same, but at least she collaborates with the school and is usually the driving force behind such events. It is impressive to say the least.

We reached the coffee house, and an elderly man directed us to a table, one situated by the windows of the establishment, allowing us a clear view of the streets outside. I spotted people going about, and unsurprisingly, a few inhabitants of the moonlit world in guises – and neither did they look out of place.

"You can order anything you like." I offered again.

Rias pondered for a moment. "Are you sure, Emiya-kun?" Her tone was playful. "My tastes may leave you in a state of bankruptcy."

"I don't mind that at all." I said as I waved off her warning. "As long as I get to see my friend happy, I'll be content."

I had worried for the girl, but our clashing schedules and her sudden disappearances denied us the opportunity to meet – even our cute juniors have strangely been absent for days. While I could make heads to what is bothering her, there is only so much I can do about matters related to devilkind. Especially knowing that they are being watched over by that presence that had appeared in the clubroom that day – an extremely powerful Devil.

Whoever it was, they had managed to mediate a meeting between several High-Class Devils and their juniors. I had even sensed the use of magic and the activation of multiple Sacred Gears before that Devil's mere appearance had culled any in-fighting.

I had noted that event down as one of importance.

Rias ordered a fair share of pastries, some of the pricier ones from the menu that would make the mouths of my ravenous juniors water. I ordered a cup of tea, a particular chamomile that I enjoyed from this house.

I find it strange how so terribly similar this world is to mine. Much of what I know from this world is not that different from mine, and at times, I would forget that I am in another world to begin with. But there remained one truth that reminded me of this reality.

It is vastly different from my home.

"Here." Rias said as she slid forward the tray of pastries. "You will find that I am not a ravenous beast as some might like to believe."

I laughed at the irony of that statement, but I could not say no to her offer.

"How did you know that something was troubling me?" She started, her gaze and tone curious. "I do not believe that Sōna would disclose my personal matters to others, regardless of how taken she is with you."

I raised an eyebrow at the comment. While it is true that Sōna had practically turned me into her aid, I believe it to be more of a "keep your enemies closer" approach lest I usurp her ranking in academics. Or so she said but I had not believed a single word of that.

It seems that at an instinctual level, they suspect me. I truly may have misjudged their level of awareness.

"Your eyes." I said as I took a sip of the tea.

Rias' face flushed, a dust of pink playing on her cheeks. As amusing and cute as it was, it could not mask the deepening curiosity in her eyes. "What about them?" She asked.

"They are windows to the soul, and yours seems to have been backed into a corner." I sighed softly before continuing. "Your eyes often hold a vigour to them, a passion or pursuit. But something has exhausted that fire within."

Rias stared silently as I took another sip of my tea, wondering whether it was a good idea to reveal my ability to read into people's emotions or, at the worst, a creepy habit of looking into people and their characters before interacting with them. While Sōna did not despise the latter, I do not get the impression that it would fly with Rias.

It was strange, though. Not stranger than my recent experiences, but a degree lower, how I had learned to speak true to the person's purpose or desire. A mere glance was all it took to understand them to a degree, but oftentimes, people would avert their gazes, while others like Sōna stared unflinchingly. It probably is the reason we get along as well as do; she is the fearless kind.

"I am getting married."

I nearly choked on my tea when Rias blurted out those words. " Sorry?" There are many things to expect from Devils, but I did not expect that. Rookie mistake. "You are getting married?" I leaned in with a whisper.

Her former blush flittered away as a frown marred her delicate features. Her eyes became downtrodden as she watched the passersby, but I could see something else within them, resistance.

"I come from a family descended from nobility." Rias said softly. "As it is customary practice for our peer, one is bound to wed into my family. That is a duty that I must fulfil as the heir of my clan."

I nodded as I came to understand her plight. It is no secret as to how aristocracy, and to a larger extent, both the human and moonlit world function; they serve age-old traditions of ensuring the longevity of blood purity and customs.

After the Great War, many factions had suffered countless losses, but none more than Heaven and the Underworld. The Devils had developed the Evil Pieces to save themselves from extinction but prior to that discovery, the custom of Pillar Clans marrying into the other was a most customary practice. Pure blood was becoming a rarity, and while I could see merit to the tradition, I understood how unfair it was to others.

I was curious, though. "Is this duty unavoidable?"

There were ways to avoid that duty, many of which were notorious amongst devilkind. Because Rias clearly loathed the idea, I had to wonder if she is willing to go through with those methods for a small chance of avoiding this fate.

"Not necessarily." She offered a shaky smile. "There is a contest of sorts that will be held soon. If I win, the arrangement will be annulled. But should I lose, he will marry into my family."

Her vehemence and desire are so palpable, I could almost taste the ruination that burned in her core. I watched her, quietly so, as she peered into my eyes, and saw a spark growing into a smouldering flame.

Yes, Rias is this kind of Devil. The kind that will do anything for her loved ones, even if it means soiling her reputation and dying in a blaze of disgrace. If it means not accepting what is hers to belong to another, she would do it.

A dangerous kind of Devil.

"So, all you have to do is win." I said as I paused to take another sip. "If it is something you wish to achieve with all of your heart, it is best to use both of your hands to pave a way to attaining it."

Rias seemed surprised by my words, so much that I had to wonder if it is because of the simplicity of the solution or because I had said them to her, unknowing of how harrowing her experience must be.

"My sister-in-law believes that I must accept my duty. My friends believe that it would be impossible to win this contest." Rias smiled softly. "Yet you believe that I can win."

I know how it is to face insurmountable odds, yet I had never found a reason to fear pressing forward. I had lost, more times than I could keep count, but I survived. Choosing to fight means that you have already started to carve a way to victory. Now, with that unexplored path forming before her, all she needs to do is weather whatever may come until she reaches the prize that is her freedom.

I smiled kindly to the girl. "Of course, I believe in you." I reassured her. "I wouldn't be where I am now if I did not believe in myself. And if you can't believe in yourself, I will be here to believe in you."

Rias stared unabashedly; her lips parted in quiet surprise. Then, she smiled. Perhaps the most beautiful smile that I have seen from her.

"The rumours barely do you any justice, Emiya-kun." She whispered as she averted her gaze, a light pink dusting her cheeks. "Thank you."

After accompanying Rias to her home, I made my way back to my apartment through the streets that were now busy due to the late rush hour. Children were being dragged home by their scolding mothers, fathers returning from work and young adults preparing for a night out, a mixer or rager that would ween off the exhaustion they had accumulated during the week.

With the town falling under the darkness of the night, it became alive as the streets flickered with lights, both artificial and enticing to the viewers, but I paid none of that any mind as I wondered about the resident Devils.

Unlike those zealots of the Vatican, I did not buy into the narrative of Devils being inherently evil. Times certainly had changed because the ones that exist today pale in comparison to their ancestors' cruelty. They had adopted a more humane approach to coexisting with other beings, with few of them seeking chaos and war like the older generation.

The Gremory and Sitri heirs were proof that, while they do have an inclination, just as a man is inclined to murder or lying, they are not inherently evil.

I shrugged off my blazer and slipped off my shoes as soon as I entered my apartment, a habit that I still had from growing up. I untied my tie, unbuttoned my shirt, and quickly made my way to the balcony to catch the sunset.

I watched as the sun dipped, golden rays dulling into a multitude of crimson and oranges, bathing the sky in twilight.

In the distance, I spotted a bird flying majestically in my direction, its form carried by the dying rays of the sunset. I raised a hand for the creature to perch itself upon, and reached to the piece of paper that was attached to its leg. Walking back into the living, patting the bird for a job well done, I unfastened the note and placed the bird onto the stand that looked much like a miniature tree.

Moments passed as I read the letter, going every detail however minute, and committing it to memory. Placing the letter onto the counter, I snapped my fingers, and it vanished without a trace, leaving only the messenger dove whose caw I found amusing as I tended to it.

"Well, this complicates things."

'i like this version better.'

- cheapseance

(15/08/24)