"What happened!?" Karen shrieked in terror.

Shortly after the girls returned back, they were greeted by the sight of Artorian getting roughly patched up by Ryusei. The man was clearly far from an expert, given how sloppily the bandage wrapping was done around his head. The wrapping around his arm was better, but poorly tied as the ends appeared barely keeping together.

"Damn, she does have strong lungs." Ryusei winced, looking to the hybrid. "Think she'd be half as loud as that-"

"Finish that Bastard. I dare you. I. DARE. You." Artorian warned, flashing the man a dark glare before sighing, giving Karen a composed look. "It's okay Karen, I just got a little beat up. Nothing out of the ordinary."

"That looks a little more than "beat up"." Miharu called out, walking over to the two before moving down. "Mind if I take over?"

"Help yourself, I've never been good at patching people up." Ryusei relented, standing up and walking away.

With her now in the driver seat, Miharu started immediately by untying the bandage on his head to take a look at the injury. Moving his head to better see it, the nurse gave a measuring look before placing the bloodied wrappings to the side in favor for a fresh set.

"It looks like you only opened your original cut by a small amount." She noted, beginning to properly cover the wound. "Now for your arm."

"Mrph… fine." Artorian groaned, biting the loose end and pulling it out to let the wrappings fall down.

"Did someone try to stab you?" Sakura asked in concern, seeing the large cut on his forearm.

"Technically yes, but not the source of the injury." He admitted, Miharu using another wrapping to cover his injury.

"I take the source is the same one why two of your ribs are broken?" Miharu guessed.

"My ribs are not-grck!" Before he could argue, the nurse pressed a hand against his torso, putting pressure on his ribs to prove her point. "I thought nurses weren't supposed to hurt people?"

"I don't know what you're talking about." The nurse responded, finishing up the bandaging on his arm. "I was simply feeling out your injuries, I had no intent on hurting you."

"Don't think I don't know that tone, I know when I'm being sassed."

"What happened?" Claire asked, the hybrid looking up to the blonde.

"It isn't his fault; I was the one who said we had to follow the kid." Touka walked between the two, attempting to take the blame.

"Touka, you don't need to defend me. She's not mad." Artorian stated, recognizing Claire's stern stare. "There was a kid, working for a couple thugs as a pickpocket. Failed his job and was about to get the shit beaten out of him. Touka wanted to help him, and so I was roped in with her."

"A couple thugs managed to do this to you?"

"Okay let's get this clear, there was at least fifteen and I took hits for Touka. Big difference there. Second there was… a bit of a complication."

"Did something bad happen?"

"Well Emile I'd say it…" Artorian looked to the white-haired girl, pausing as he saw her in the same clothes she wore. However her chest was more prominent, meaning the wrappings she used to hide her identity wasn't present. "Um… why are you-"

"Later, what happened?" Claire interrupted.

"Took a solid punch, normally it wouldn't matter. But… they had this." Artorian continued, pulling out the variable stone he got from Rentaro.

"A variable stone?"

"They had a martial arts type Hundred?" Claire asked, half the group seeing the powerful stone.

"Yep, luckily he didn't have a lot of energy so taking him down was easy."

"But still, to have gotten a Hundred meant he had to have either stolen it from a military compound or it was smuggled to him, neither of which is good."

"Should we alert the authorities? Let them know we have it?" Sakura asked, getting silence from both Artorian and Ryusei.

"What's the matter?"

"Let's… just say the fine men and women of Yamato's law don't see eye to eye with us very often." Ryusei responded, leaning against the nearest wall. "We tell them we have a variable stone; I give us ten minutes before they're busting my door down with guns blazing."

"Oh come now, that's just ridiculous." Claire scoffed. "All we have to do is explain that Artorian had relinquished it from a criminal and return it upon their arrival. It's elementary."

"Except they'll then judge the whelp for not returning it immediately, or taking it from the scene. Hell, they might just shoot him for looking at them the wrong way."

"Claire, I know back in Liberia it's pretty universal to appreciate Slayers for their sacrifices; but that isn't the case for the rest of the world." Artorian stated, both Miharu and Karen looking away as he did. "Aside from the Britannia territories, a lot of countries really hate Slayers. And I mean REALLY hate. Because spoiler warning, not everyone is as pure and noble as you are."

"Back in the early days of the Savage attacks, a lot of Slayers were mass produced to quickly eliminate the stragglers and help the governments restore order." Ryusei informed.

"Yeah, most people know about that."

"What they don't tell you is that the First Generation Slayers were being trained and developed BEFORE the First Attack." He revealed, surprising the half the room. "I'll spare the details, a lot of the Slayers developed weren't upstart people with flawless records. There were volunteers, sure. But a lot were convicts given the death penalty. And some had unceremoniously started taking advantage of the freedoms they had after the first invasion."

"Bastard's a First Generation Slayer, and I'm the closest thing to my dad who helped develop both generations. They don't need an excuse to hate us, and the Mikado certainly doesn't help."

"Your own leader favors this behavior?"

"Hell, he dueled a Slayer for the position. Scared the shit out of everyone when he cut both his arms off." Ryusei winced, having recalled the day perfectly. "Afterwards he had strict policing on all Slayers; curfews and drug regulations. Along with turning a blind eye to work discrimination and crimes against their families, the Mikado certainly wasn't helping the situation."

"Hard to get anywhere with the head of the country's government having it out for you." Artorian stated. "Took a hell of a long time for him to accept the Second Generation Slayers, and that's only because Warslran requisitioned territory in the country. Doubt many of them leave the compound grounds."

"So the reason you've been keeping this in hand is because you're afraid of what the Mikado will do if your caught with it?" Emilia asked, getting a nod from the hybrid.

"I have to admit, the old bastard scares me even." Ryusei stated. "I'd rather go back into the fray and fight a legion of Savage then stand in front of his cutlass."

"Perhaps I can return it?" Claire offered. "I'm a commander in Warslran, even if he distrusts Slayers it should have less impact with my brother's authority."

"It'd be best to turn it in when we're on Little Garden, saves the risk of a face to face encounter with-!" Artorian's words died in his throat as a knock was heard at the door, his and Ryusei's bodies going stiff. "Oh… fuck."

"Pardon me, I don't mind to intrude. But would one of you be polite enough to open the door?' A male voice was heard outside, hearing it giving Artorian all the confirmation he needed before swallowing the spit in his mouth.

Giving a single look to Emilia, he gave a nod, signaling for her to go to the door while he stood up along with Miharu. When the white haired girl opened the door, a man accompanied by two soldiers were standing. The two guards wore similar uniforms to the man, however decorated with a dark blue rather than the man's officer red.

Aside from his red uniform, the man had an eyepatch, recently cleaned based on the shine. On his chest was several small medals, all prestigious rewards for service in the military. And on his hip was a black and gold cutlass hilt with a red gem at the end.

"Rego Meitaka, to what do we owe the pleasure?" Artorian would ask, his face turning neutral as the two guards immediately took aim at the Abysswalker. Emilia and Claire were about to reach for their variable stones when Rego held his hand up, signaling his guards off as they disengaged.

"Now, now, we're not here to cause a scene. That would look bad with the current guests." He responded, stepping ahead of his men a few paces. "Recent reports said you were downtown when you fought a group of thugs. A group we had been looking in to."

"And? You know I used to get into fights frequently. What makes this one special?"

"We think they were in possession of one of our variable stones. And since we didn't find it on them, we assumed you know what might have happened to it." Rego explained, giving the hybrid a small smile as he did. "I don't wish for this to become an issue; I only want to know where the stone is. Once I know where, I'll leave, and you can enjoy your day."

Artorian remained quiet at the statement. He didn't believe the man's words, not for a single second. But the current situation was unfavorable to say the least. With everyone here he couldn't risk an incident, especially with Karen. But seeing as a well-known idol from Yamato and a Warslran commander were present, he was hoping it may favor his position more. It didn't help his composure though, a small drop of sweat going down his face as he weighed his options.

"…It's right here." Artorian eventually relented, holding the variable stone up in his palm to the man. "One of them was able to activate it and armed himself. But if you saw them then you know it didn't end well."

"I see." Rego hummed, taking the variable stone to look at it's shine. "It's always a marvel, seeing just how a little stone could hold so much power. You Slayers certainly make use of them." Rego then walked back to one of his guards, the man grabbing a case that was strapped to his back and opening it. The elder man then placed the stone into the case before it closed, turning to smile to the hybrid. "I appreciate the cooperation. It's good to know you are much more responsive with company."

'Take it and leave old man. Take it and leave.'

"Oh come now, no need for such a look." Rego smiled, closing his eye as he regarded the Abysswalker. "And besides, along with you I figured it's best I come to speak to the more prominent visitors." The man then would walk over to Sakura, giving her a warm smile as he did. "Ms. Kirishima, I'll admit I was surprised to see you on the arrivals. I didn't recall there being any concerts scheduled."

"Oh, there wasn't Your Excellency." Sakura responded, bowing once before smiling. "I'm actually here on vacation for the Bon Festival."

"Really? Well I'm sorry if this feels as imposing, but would you mind being a part of the show?" He asked. "We had booked Carol Caroline for our star performance; however she recently had to cancel and has left a vacancy. It would be a honor to have you sing before the fireworks."

"Hmph, leave it to her to cancel on something important." Sakura huffed, smirking brightly as she accepted the man's offer. "I'll gladly perform, you have yourself an idol."

"Splendid!"

"Someone already got bought." Emilia muttered, staring deadpan at the idol as the two shook hands before he walked on.

"And you must be the renowned Claire Harvey. Your name's caused quite the buzz within the UN." Rego said to the blonde.

"Rego Meitaka, I'll admit you have me at a disadvantage. I don't know much of Yamato's political hierarchy." She stated, getting a small laugh from him.

"It's all fine, I'm not here to discuss anything with you." He said, patting her shoulder before walking back to his guards. "Continue to serve your people well and eliminate as many Savage as you can. Oh, and give a message to your brother next time you see him." Rego then stopped just short of the door, looking over his shoulder with his patched eye. "Tell him we have many concerns regarding your recent captures, and we're preparing a vote on how to dispose of them."

"I hope you all enjoy the festival. And Touka, remember I'll want to begin your evaluation once you're of age." The man then walked out, the guards following while one closed the door after shooting a glare at Artorian and Ryusei. Once the door closed, the three all released a collective breath.

"So… who was that?" Emilia asked, stepping next to Artorian as he regained his breath.

"Rego Meitaka, the Mikado of Yamato." Ryusei answered, wiping his wrist over his forehead to remove some sweat. "You're from Gudenberg, right? You remember what your leader was called before the label was King, right?"

"How did you…" Emilia started to say, but was interrupted as Artorian lightly elbowed her side, giving her the signal not to bother. "Yeah, Fuhrer. Why?"

"He's basically that. Leader of the military and head of the oligarchy. You were just in the presence of the most powerful man in Yamato."

"Do you need any help?" Sakura asked, looking to the side of Artorian to look at the pot filled with boiling water.

"It's just noodles Sakura, I'm okay." The hybrid responded, dumping the udon noodles he bought at the store into the water.

"Maybe I could help with the sauce?"

"It's udon Sakura, the sauce is pre-made." He stated, motioning with his head to the packets of sesame being heated slowly.

"How about the vegetables? Surely you could use some help there?"

The constant questioning got a sigh from Artorian, the hybrid realizing there was clearly something on the idol's mind that he had to get to. "Okay, what's on your mind?" Artorian asked in return. "I'm picking up a lot of guilt and confusion in your voice. So let's stop dancing with the middleman and get to the part you're worried about."

"…Are you mad at me?"

"For what?"

"For how I acted with the Mikado. I know you had just said a lot about the Anti-Slayer sentiments in Yamato from him, and I do believe that you feel that he's caused a lot of it, but I can't help but feel it can't all be true, I've known him for a long time and I-" Sakura was running on in her words before being stopped by Artorian placing a finger over her lips.

"Slow it down girl, this isn't one of your concerts." He responded, chuckling as he picked up a wooden spoon to stir the udon. "So, the Mikado? You two have a history?"

"He… he funded my recovery surgery after Souffle rescued me." Sakura revealed, the hybrid's stirring pausing for a second at the information. "He also gathered the resources to forge my variable stone, he's helped me so much that I… I just can't see where the discrimination could come from."

"I see. Well that's good to know." He shrugged, confusing the idol.

"W-Wait, that's it?"

"That's it."

"You're not mad? Or annoyed, or angry that I never said anything about this until now?"

"Sakura, I made the mistake of judging you before." He responded. "I don't like him, I've personally experienced the kind of hell he lets go on. But I do like you, and I've gotten to know you well enough that if you respect him there's a reason for it. So don't worry yourself over it Pinky."

"…Thank you."

"All a part of live and learn." Artorian said with a smile, putting the idol's worries to rest before looking back to the udon. However as he placed a cover over the pot, a distant stare entered his eyes, his thoughts plaguing his focus.

'He felt different from the last time. Like he was a completely different person.'

"Oh wow!" Karen beamed, looking around with excitement. The Bon Festival was in full swing, and for the first time she could see all the extravagant lights, costumes and events that were going on. The sight had everyone else staring in amazement as well, the only outlier being Artorian as he stood at the back of the group.

"It's almost like a completely different world." Emilia mustered out, the bright lights illuminating perfectly in the dark.

"Are all festivals here in Yamato this profligate?" Claire asked, looking back to the hybrid.

"More or less." He shrugged. "Yamato only has three official holidays with festivals, they like to go all out for each one."

"And the Bon Festival is the most treasured of them all." Sakura continued. "We honor the dead and look to the future, it's to remind us that no matter the struggle we can always climb to new heights."

"And you're certain you don't need your Hundreds?" Miharu questioned, noting the Slayers lack of the vital equipment.

"Nah, violence at the Bon Festival is the equivalent to a grand sin. Weapons alone are completely forbidden." Artorian informed, referencing to the fact he was without his father's sword. He was reluctant to part with the weapon, but he knew better than to take the risk. Especially seeing at least two snipers in the night skyline watching their section of the city.

"But with that problem unavoidable, it's time we got you all set up for tonight." The hybrid added, crossing his arms with a smirk accompanied by smiles from Sakura and Karen.

"Why do I have a bad feeling about this?"

"You shouldn't!" Sakura cheered as she and Karen grabbed Artorian's arms, pulling him ahead of the group as they headed for a nearby store. "Come on, you're first!"

"Oi! I am perfectly capable of dragging my feet myself!" He argued, albeit with a happy grin.

"Well, let's not keep them waiting!" Emilia cheered in agreement, grabbing Claire to pull her with her. "Come on! They're going to get ahead of us!"

"You do not need to pull me Crossfode!"

"Such an exuberant day." Miharu laughed as she followed.

"Haha, yes!" Sakura grinned, getting a round of groans from Emilia and Karen, the three playing a game at a stand with plastic guns. "Take that Emilia, I've got you up by five!"

"Like that will be keeping me down! Again!" Emilia shouted back, the two staring in determination at each other while Karen laughed sheepishly.

"They're drawing a crowd." Claire noted; her, Artorian and Miharu sitting at a nearby table to watch over the three. All of them were wearing kimonos, each with their personal colors thanks to one of the shop's wide variety of options.

The blonde Slayer was referencing the small group of ten people watching, seeing the three girls playing the game and being impressed with the growing scores they were getting. Even though Emilia was the only one with a Hundred with ranged properties, both Sakura and Karen were impressive shots with the plastic guns, having all shattered previous records.

"They're just having fun." Artorian chuckled, seeing the idol and princess getting more heated as they paid for another round, getting ready for the holographic Savage to appear across from them. "Outside of Yamato's army, no one ever gets those high of scores. They're probably wondering how they can match some of the elite sharpshooters."

"Soldiers play that game?" Miharu asked, getting a nod from the Slayer.

"A bit more advanced and a longer range, but it's the same simulation technology." He shrugged. "They're also in arcades, different themes then just the Savage. Gave them a shot once, couldn't aim for shit."

"I teach your firearm course, I'm well aware that your accuracy barely went up."

"Okay Miss Judgmental, how about you go ahead and take a shot." The hybrid responded to Claire, motioning to the game.

"Me?" Claire said with a raised eyebrow, almost insulted at the insinuation. "Do I need to remind you what my Hundred is?"

"Nah, using flying guns that follow your orders isn't the same as using a gun. And your Buster Canon isn't used for precision, just pure destruction." He then grinned, seeing the challenging glare she was shooting him. "Not to mention I never actually saw you fire your E-Tranquilizer, so how can I tell you're not all talk?"

"So you pick this to be your downfall?"

"I'll even pay for your turn." Artorian answered, tossing the blonde enough money to participate in the next round. "I expect a good show after all that talk?"

"I did not become a commander on a whim, and I'll remind you that I have skills outside of Hundred combat." Claire stated, standing up as she turned to walk to the game stand. "Watch well Artorian, and see the Perfect Queen in action."

"I'm shaking in excitement." He chuckled, sighing when she reached the stand and reached into his blue kimono. "Gods she's so simple." He then pulled out a glass bottle, getting a look from the nurse beside him.

"You're not old enough to drink."

"I also wasn't old enough for mental scarring, but Kai certainly didn't care." The hybrid responded without missing a beat.

"…That's fighting dirty Artorian."

"I didn't make it this far by playing fair." He said, seeing the nurse's disappointed look before shaking his head, twisting the cap off as the bottle let out a satisfying hiss. "It's soda, no alcohol."

"When did you buy that?" She asked.

"When I went out with Touka, I didn't want to pay three times the amount to get one here." He said, taking a sip as he relaxed.

"It's a shame she couldn't come, I'm sure she would've loved picking out a kimono."

"She's busy packing her stuff, and I really doubt she would." He said, knowing that since she was raised by Ryusei her feelings behind the "finer" aspects of society. "But speaking of kimonos, you surprised me." The hybrid admitted, referring to her blue kimono and violet sash. "I thought you would've gone with purple or pink, but you caught me off guard."

"I couldn't ruin their style." Miharu laughed, referring to Sakura and Karen, the two wearing those colors. "They also didn't have any close to my size, so I couldn't even if I wanted to."

"Could've gone with a men's." Artorian stated, taking note that her kimono was still barely fitting, the top of her chest exposed as the clothes struggled to hold her assets.

"I am a lady Artorian, to wear a men's size would be insulting." She huffed, the two chuckling before she leaned her shoulder onto his. "Besides, I think blue's a much more appealing color."

"Smooth." The hybrid smiled, closing his eyes to relax as the next round with the game started, Sakura and Emilia stepping up as Claire joined in. "You're not getting a sip."

"How mean."

"No way in hell am I wasting a chance of a first kiss with you as an indirect one."

"Mrph…"

"Oh come on, it was one game."

"You knew she was going to destroy us, but you had her do it anyway." Emilia whined, her and Artorian walking through a hedge maze set up in the city's park.

"Well duh, I couldn't drink my illegally brought soda if she was watching my every move." He chuckled, rubbing her head as they walked. "Besides, you were within five thousand points. That's an accomplishment."

"Jerk."

"I love ya too Emilia." The girl would turn her head, pouting at his response before he shook his head. "I'll make it up to you."

"You better…" She mumbled, unable to keep her pout before smiling. "I wish we had more of this alone time."

"Can't help that I'm so popular." He shrugged, reaching down and gently taking her hand with his robotic limb. "So, enjoying Yamato so far?"

"It's so lovely." She sighed, resting her head on his shoulder as they made a turn. "I just sort of wish… you know…"

"Not everywhere is a shining symbol of hope, Yamato just happens to be one of the least ideal places for Slayers." He admitted, knowing what the girl was alluding to.

"But it isn't right, after everything your father did they treat you like an outsider."

"We're both aware that being an outsider is the least of their worries." Artorian chuckled. "With everything I am, I'm lucky they only hate me because my dad was a Slayer."

"But being a Lord shouldn't make you any less-"

"Emilia, how long did you know?" The hybrid would ask out of nowhere, interrupting the Slayer as he stopped.

"How long did I know what?"

"About the Abyss." He stated, surprising her as he looked to her. "It's okay, the maze is one of the least popular attractions and I can't hear any footsteps around for regular earshot. So we're completely alone here."

"How… how did you figure it out?"

"Back at Qin, you said "Don't give in to it". And since I wasn't using energy, it was obvious you weren't referring to the Variant Virus. So, when?"

"…About a year after the Second Attack." After a minute of silence, Emilia would reluctantly admit. "Artorias had actively protected my father a few times before, so I thought he knew about you. I kept asking if you needed help, but he always avoided answering. Eventually I asked if we could at least host you until we knew you would be alright and he… told me about you. About the Abyss."

"And you're still here, despite what he said?" He asked. "I can guess he told you the minimum about it when you were a kid. You have to know the nastier stuff now that you're older."

"I was told about the most demonizing and horrific things the Abyss had done. The kingdoms it's destroyed, the people consumed in it. But I know what I saw." Emilia spoke, her hand tightening her hold on his metal appendage as she looked down. "He said you were a monster in the making, but a monster wouldn't save me. You risked your life coming back, you risked dying from direct exposure by drinking the Savage fluid in my wound and… I know you're not some monster."

"That's the sweetest thing anyone's ever said about me."

"I'm serious Artorian." Emilia stated, letting go of Artorian's hand to reach up and cup his face with both hands, her stare up to him resolute. "The Abyss is in you, but it isn't YOU. It may manipulate you, but it will never break you. You're too strong to give in to it. And even if you do, we'll be there to pull you back into the light."

"We?"

"All of us. Karen, Claire, Sakura, Miharu, we're here for you. You're not on your own." A blissful silence fell between the two as Emilia pulled Artorian's face down, raising herself up on her toes to plant a gentle kiss on his lips. They remained in the position for several seconds before separating so that the girl could look him in the eyes.

"I know that… I know the duty you have as an Abysswalker. All I want is to be by your side and help you."

"You know what that duty requires right? It might not work out the way you'd want."

"I don't care, you need people with you and I won't ever leave your side. You're not alone."

"Damn it woman, you make this so difficult." Artorian sighed before reaching down, eliciting a surprised squeak from the girl as he picked her up by her thighs. With them evened out, the hybrid planted his lips on hers, surprising her before she melted into the kiss.

"Why do you always have to do all this sentimental shit when we're in a public place?" He asked as they pulled back, getting a shy laugh from Emilia.

"Well ya know… I've never been good with timing." She said, scratching the side of her cheek with a smile.

"You beat Claire at that at least." He chuckled, humoring the two before capturing her lips once again. He would begin to gently massage her thighs as her arms draped over his shoulders, the two relaxing into their opposing body heat.

The hybrid was more then grateful for the maze's low popularity. Not only for the chance to have a one-on-one talk about the Abyss with Emilia, but also serving as a safe place for them to simply cut loose a bit, even if they are limited heavily by the public environment.

"Artorian! Emilia!"

"I swear to the fucking Gods…" Artorian growled as he pulled away from Emilia, the girl sharing his sentiment with an exaggerated sigh as he placed her down on the ground and onto her feet. "Three for fucking three."

"There you two are, Karen was getting worried." Claire said as she turned past a corner, seeing the two as the hybrid took a step back from his partner. "You two were in here for a while, you two didn't actually get lost in here did you?"

"One of these days Claire. I swear one of these days." He muttered as he turned to go along the path, getting a confused blink from Claire as she looked to Emilia.

"Did I do something?"

"Nothing out of the ordinary." Emilia answered, her shoulders drooping down as she looked to the blonde. "Artorian's right though, you definitely earn the title Cock-Block Queen."

"W-what!? Y-You two-!? Were you actually-!?"

"Oh hey Artorian's getting ahead. Wait up!" Emilia said, running after Artorian after realizing she said the last part out loud.

"Have you no shame!?"

"You know, I don't know how you do it." Artorian admitted, walking up to Sakura as she sat on a bench after finishing her impromptu concert for the festival. "I can't imagine singing for that long, I can barely croak out a single song before I get tired of it. Meanwhile you can sing for a whole hour with everyone shouting at the top of their lungs."

"It's all about conserving your voice." Sakura smiled, accepting a bottle of water from the hybrid as he sat next to her. "Did you enjoy my songs?"

"I found a nice corner out of everyone's sight where I could listen to them in peace." He answered. "Pop still isn't exactly my thing, but if it means hearing your sweet voice I can live with it."

"Flatterer."

"I try." He chuckled as she took a sip of water.

"You look worn out." Sakura noted, seeing him sigh while leaning forward.

"Eh, I've been dragged all over the festival. If it isn't you, it was Karen wanting me to win her another prize from those damn rigged games."

"You could always just say no."

"To that face? I'd like to see you try." He joked, getting a laugh from the idol before rubbing his neck. "I'm really alright, just not a fan of being around so many people. Drains me more than I like to admit."

"…W-Well then, if you're tired… why not take a nap?" Sakura would suggest, appearing slightly embarrassed.

"Not easy for me, especially out in public like this." He explained. "Nowhere private for me to rest my eyes anyway."

"Here's private."

"No other chairs, and I'm not making you stand up for my sake."

"…You're doing this on purpose, aren't you?" Sakura would mutter out, getting a grin from Artorian as he chuckled.

"You want me to rest on your lap, you can just say it."

"Fine, if you won't take the offer I'll just take it-"

"Don't get ahead of yourself Pinky." Artorian interrupted, the pair laughing as he laid down on the bench and rested the back of his head on the idol's lap. "I just like twisting everyone's wrist a bit, the offer is much appreciated."

"I'm glad." She smiled, looking down to the hybrid as he closed his eyes and sighed wistfully, relaxing as he was living the dream many men desired; a lap pillow.

Letting him simply rest his eyes, Sakura would carefully play with his hair by moving the growing bangs aside from his face. When she did, she saw the small scar he had gotten on his forehead from the Second Attack, a small ping of empathy going through her at the sight. The day scarred him just like it did her, as it did Karen and Emilia.

And despite his relaxed and casual demeanor, she saw the pain he was in. He had yet to move past the day and was thrust into a position he wasn't meant to be in. And in a sense she had yet to either, noting to herself as she looked to the scar on his arm Krovanh gave him on their first encounter.

"It wasn't your fault." Artorian spoke up, surprising the idol as he opened his eyes. "I stepped in front of you fully aware of the risks. You had no say in what I did."

"But I froze up." Sakura responded, hanging her head and looking away as she spoke. "I saw the Hunter and I couldn't… he looked just like they did. And I made you have to take that risk because I was too scared."

"I'm scared of an old bully." Artorian stated, raising his left hand up and placing it on her cheek to face her towards him. "I don't know what I would do if I saw him again. He broke me before I lost my dad, I nearly snapped because of what he did. I don't know if I'd beat him to a bloody pulp the next time I see him or lock up in fear what he could do next time."

"You don't mean that, we both know you can't be scared like that."

"And that's how fear works. You never know when you're gonna get shot in the face." He responded. "I have no idea how it'll go if I meet him again, just like how you never expected to see someone who was experimented on just like you." The hybrid then sat up, smiling over to her as his hand moved to the back of her head, pulling her close enough so that his forehead was placed against hers. "You didn't put me in danger, I didn't get hurt because of you. So stop thinking I did."

"You're a jerk." Sakura laughed, looking to the hybrid. "Let me be guilty in peace."

"Can't. You're the idol of hope in this shit world. You promised to keep singing and smiling for the world, so don't go back on that because of a small cut."

"I won't. Seeing you have so many scars just-"

"Nope! You're not allowed to continue." Artorian interrupted. "If you keep it up, I'm going to have to silence you myself."

"And how exactly would you?"

"I think you have an idea." He stated, smirking to the idol as he did. "Something tells me that's not going to get the right outcome, is it?"

"I don't know, it doesn't seem fair after what you've gone through." She responded, getting an entertained chuckle from him.

"Now that's playing dirty. I like it." Artorian said before pressing his lips against Sakura's, the idol closing her eyes wistfully as she reached up and gripped his kimono.

As they kissed, Sakura's heart was beating faster with each passing second. The coolness of his lips felt pleasant against her warmth, the temperatures melding nicely. She then felt his hands move to cup her cheeks, the added coolness further relaxing her as she let him take the lead, the hybrid clearly more experienced in the intimate lip lock.

Eventually the two would separate from the simple kiss, remaining close as the two looked into the other's eyes. The silence would then be broken as Artorian hugged Sakura closer, placing her chin on his shoulder as he looked up.

"I don't care about this world. But you do, and I'll be sure to protect you and everyone else."

"Then it sounds like your job as a Slayer has just started." Sakura replied, smiling as she buried her face into the crane of his neck to feel his cool skin against her warmth.

"I blame all of you, I was a menace before Little Garden damn it."

"Do you regret it?"

"Surrounded by as many beautiful women as I am? Hell no."

"Jerk."

"Love ya too Sakura."

"Look at that sky." Claire said with a bright smile, staring up to the stars as she sat next to Artorian on the blanket they rolled out for their group in preparation of the fireworks.

"I feel like we've gone over this twice at least." The hybrid stated, laying on his back with his hands behind his head.

"I just can't help it. I've been to so many countries I think I've seen the sky at every angle. Then I go somewhere new and it's an entirely different configuration."

"Bleh, don't ruin my shithole sky with your unnecessarily big words." Artorian half gagged, getting a jab to his side. "Hey, don't hate me. You're the one who says debauchery like it's a common expression."

"It is an accurate representation of your character."

"It's a dead word people use to try and sound smarter."

"That is hardly true."

"I have not heard anyone say it before I met you. And the only other person to say it was your brother." He pointed out. "So, you know. I'm pretty sure I'm right."

"That's rather arrogant of you."

"I'm half Lord, arrogance is in my blood." Artorian chuckled, sighing as he looked up. "I think… it was that one." He said, pointing up to a dimly lit star in the middle of a spiral constellation.

"What about it?" Claire asked, finding the star.

"The first one I always started on when counting stars." He answered. "Don't know why, it's the hardest to find because some nights you can barely see it. I think it blew up and some bursts of light go off every once in a while. Or it's a dwarf that flickers when large enough debris passes it."

"I thought you hated stargazing?"

"I hate it now. I used to love the stars, thinking how there's possibly an endless amount. Breaches in the darkness of space's void." The hybrid detailed, reaching his hand out as if to grab something. "I remember dad used to talk about early plans for space travel with Charlotte. Made me think I could one day reach for those stars."

"I was such an idiot." He said, tightening his hand into a fist. "I could never reach that far; we had no chance of even reaching the moon after the First Attack. Not to mention the fact I'd probably lose my mind from boredom just sitting in some small station up there." He then lowered his hand back to the ground, closing his eyes with a smile. "I never thought things through as a kid."

"Most kids don't." Claire laughed, looking to the hybrid as he sighed. "While I was training, I always dreamed of owning a flower shop."

"Would've been the deadliest florist around, that's for sure."

"And that was part of the problem." The blonde admitted, hugging her legs to her chest as she looked up. "Training to be a Slayer would've made the chance impossible, even if Liza wasn't comatose. I don't even know the first thing about properly cultivating the necessities like fruits and vegetables, I can't even imagine growing flowers with ambiguous needs."

"I don't know about that." Artorian said, opening his eyes and shifting to lean up with his elbows to look over to her. "You've got the drive and dedication, something as simple as flowers wouldn't be a challenge to you. And besides, you've certainly bloomed into a beautiful rose, what's stopping you from doing that for the real thing?"

"I… you… thanks…" Claire blushed at the compliment, initially attempting to deflect or reject the comment before accepting it and hiding her face behind her arms.

"Any time Claire." Artorian said, the two sitting in silence for a moment.

"What do you think is taking the others? Was the line for food really that lo-"

"Do you love me Claire?" Artorian spoke up, shocking Claire at the suddenness and blunt statement.

"W-WHERE DID THAT COME FROM!?"

"Shhh!" Artorian shushed her.

"You are not shushing me after a question like that!"

"People don't like screeching." He shrugged, kicking up in order to properly sit. "I was just asking, can't fault a guy for being curious."

"Still… to ask something like that like it's a simple question…"

"It really is. Just a yes or no."

"You don't deserve that simple of an answer…" She muttered, taking a collective breath before looking over to him. "Artorian, I don't know."

"Alright."

"It's nothing against you, I just have a duty as commander of Little Garden and my sister's condition that I can't… what?" Claire began to go into detail, having chosen each word carefully before registering Artorian's response. "D-Did you say something?"

"Yeah, I said alright." He said, chuckling as he looked back to the blonde. "You don't know. That's all I need. If you're on the fence and can't decide, why push anything?"

"Are you really okay with just that? It could mean all your effort to seduce me would be worthless."

"Seduction and flirtation are two different things Claire." Artorian smirked, motioning to his commander. "If I were to seduce you, it would mean I'm looking for a single fling. In the bedroom, a few naughty rounds and it's over. I, am flirting. I'm not looking for that one night of passion, I'm looking for one of the few dreams I have left."

"And that is?"

"To have a kid." He admitted, surprising Claire. "It's a part of my duty, help keep the species going and all that. But I just want… something to come from all this." He stated, looking to his hands, clenching each finger slowly. "And for that to come, I want it to be with someone special. So I flirt, not seduce."

"Not that I'm offended, but why tell me about this?" Claire asked, recalling the topic having come up before. "You talked about kids before when Judal proposed we… you know. And now again."

"Because you're unbiased." He answered. "You don't know if you have feelings for me, if it's a crush or even if there's nothing there. So me talking about kids has no major affect to our relationship. Not like it would be with Sakura or Emilia."

"Well… I thank you for the confidence."

"What about you? Ever want to tie the knot? Pop out a runt or two?"

"…Maybe one day." Claire admitted. "I haven't had the desire to have kids, but it's crossed my mind a few times in the past. Maybe once Liza wakes up and I feel she's safe, but even then I haven't found the man I'd want to have those kids with. But maybe one day, I'll figure out who that man is."

"I volunteer."

"Don't ruin the moment."

"It's starting!" Karen cheered, the whole group sitting on the blanket with small trays of snacks and drinks as the fireworks started.

Seeing the show begin to start, everyone in the festival could watch in wonder as the various colors and patterns exploded in the night sky. When a single one was fire, it'd be a large flare of countless streams, and the rapid succession of multiple smaller fireworks managed to brighten the entire sky despite the time.

While he looked up to watch the show, Artorian smiled blissfully in his current position. With Karen sitting comfortably between his legs leaning back against him after a long day of activities, Emilia to his right and Sakura to his left while Claire and Miharu stared in amazement at the light show behind him. It was a familiar feeling he had; one he hadn't felt for a decade. But as he sat there, the explosions of the fireworks deafening the comments of wonder from the crowds around them, he was able to fully immerse himself in the simple enjoyment.

'I missed this.' He said, gently resting his chin on top of Karen's head. She looked up when she felt his chin, but seeing his relaxed posture and genuine smile, she gave her own bright smile before looking back up to the fireworks.

They hadn't been able to watch fireworks with people close to them since before the Second Attack. And for once, after so long of having no one but each other, they could remember what it was like to have a family of friends with them. To be able to feel like they were no longer alone or struggling.

To feel a part of something.

(A/N): Well... this certainly took awhile. I'm sorry for such a late chapter, but I'll admit the whole Yamato vacation had lasted a lot longer than it was originally planned. It got a little difficult to manage everything, and I knew doing the festival should be done, but had trouble finding what I wanted to do. So i ended up writing just what came to mind and rolled with it, so I can't say entirely if this was a good chapter or not.

But now with it coming to a close, I'll be able to pick back up with the story and get to the good stuff. This chapter was full of mostly fluff, a good few moments at the least so that I can bring focus back to the progressing story. I'm hoping now I won't fall behind with uploading like before, since I'm looking forward towards both this arc and the next. But that isn't here nor there.

And one last thing before I sign off. I just wanted to let you all know I really appreciate you reading Abysswalker. I'm glad to see so many people enjoy it and I hope I can continue to bring that enjoyment to you. I'll be trying to update Abysstreader as well, the Faithful Onion has just been a little rough to start due to a certain aspect I have planned, but that should be the treader chapter that comes out next.

I hope you all enjoyed this chapter, and I'll see you in the next chapter. Peace!