Cinia Pacifica Posts

And maybe this guy...

@thedarkstaralchemist

Anyone know where this is from?

happy birthday

Got offended on IRC and left. That said, someone get Imperial X here.

Pretty sure I sent it over through Skype in the past.

Oh well.

I did interviewed him. I remember sending the results to you lol.

Haha. No.

That was my contribution.

Derpy as fuck writing though.

Good day to you all.

Does that greeting sound familiar? I hope it did for those who are old here, because that's how I was in the past on Fakku.

Been lurking on 2008, and finally joined at the start of 2009, been here since then. I used to be a huge fan of Kujikawa Rise from Persona 4, but eventually my tastes awoke to the ojou-samas and shit, and I grew fond of other characters as I watched more animes. I was someone who used to role-play as a maid and subsequently shifted to being an 'ojou-sama' and some angel crap too. Pretty terrible past. I was considered one of the 'semaritans' of CTFG (whatever that meant), and was pretty much a huge chatfag lord, and had a so-called home thread that eventually reached over 2000 pages. While I don't like those times when I look back at it now, I did had fun, and that's a fact. I suppose I remember Gambler coming in to visit occasionally as well. We also had good times in MSN. Either way, being a chatfag lord didn't mean that I ignored IB. I made friends on both places and those days were nice.

I hosted a Summer writing contest before in 2012 and ran Winter Writing contests alongside Xenon, and got to make front page posts twice before. As a result the Writing forum was made to be quite active, but not for long. Aside from that, I remember hosting Elemental Wars games in CTFG, some of them didn't go as expected but it was still quite fun. I planned to do some crazy Fate game with Holy Grail wars but that was a crazy idea that I stopped working on at some point. I used to write and publish some pieces in the Writing forum, which are just embarrassing to look at now. In the end, I shifted my attention to just RPing in said Writing forum, and went on to experience some of the best times of my life. Things were tough in the past, but with Google docs things changed, and now it's really fun with a lot of real time writing. The RP'ers and I probably write so much that no one else probably can ever keep up other than ourselves, lol.

While I still RP in the Writing forum, I got tired of a lot of things outside that section. New and obnoxious users in IB and CTFG both, cool people I knew vanishing, and then some people were just hungry for drama. It was annoying to say the least. Seeing neg bombs didn't make me want to go back either. I was hated by the underage chatfag lords. Things added up and I started posting less and less. I still post on IB and do things around Fakku sometimes (like the contest running now), but not as much as before.

If anyone remembers about my rants and life situations; I was cut with a knife and ever since then I simply had to stick around with the family regardless of what I wanted to do. Being in a third world country you can't really leave just because someone went and injured you in a blind fit of rage, taking away your peace of mind and security. So, I had to suck it up, but I'm still shitty at studying, and 'A' levels were just hard. Terribly hard. Eventually, a friend of mine said that SAT was easier in comparison (still fairly tricky in its own right) and that I could get into foreign universities outside my country with it. I took a huge step after that and decided that I'll finally do what I want, and even convinced my parents (they accepted my resolve, more or less) that I'll be getting myself some SAT scores, take a Japanese course or two, get myself a TOEFL score, and then get myself accepted into a Japanese university. It was the most weebest decision ever but if I am successful then I definitely won't have any regrets.

So, yeah, right now I'm trying to get myself the SAT scores, if my scores for this month's exam is fucked then I can only wait for the next year. In between that period of time I intend to at least get on with TOEFL and learning the Japanese language. Although, I think a lot of my time will be stolen by FFXIV and RPing lol.

All in all, Fakku is one of the best places I've found in my life. I'm glad I found it while looking for h-animes in Megaporn (surprisingly an uploader of Stringendo was called FAKKU.NET), and I never thought at that time that Fakku would help me get into h-mangas, let me meet a lot of different people, allow me to make some close life-long friends, get to grow up as a person, and even lead to me meeting my first and current lover. I am thus really thankful to Jacob for creating this site.

And that's where I am today. Thank you for inviting me to your thread, Gambler, I am very thankful. You will always be one of the best moderators I knew.


EDIT: Why the fuck is Drifter using an avi I used before? Moreover, putting my waifu up as his avi? This is atrocious.

Once upon a time existed warriors possessing powers that could manipulate time.

They were said to all walk their paths – for most part – solitarily. This was true, yet untrue. People were, and are, careless. They pick words without prior notice, and spread them – not knowing in full about who they speak of. Truly, the communities of human beings were, for the most part, uninformed about these beings.

Their powers – in reality – were beyond compare with practitioners of magecraft. Their powers – in reality – reigned supremacy even over nature itself.

Why? One may soon learn…

This is the tale of the first meeting between four of twelve of the Descendants of Time.







“My, how opportune an event I’ve stumbled upon tonight.”

“Who are you two?”

“My name is Hynek Tamas, and you are?” asked Hynek with a slight bow.

In amidst Rome, 85 AD. Stood three figures worth fearing across the globe. The colosseum was a fine stage for them to meet. Concrete and stone was what their establishment was made of. At the time – it was the best possible structure. Indeed, it could last for many, many centuries.

In such a glorious stage fate brought together the wise Summer’s Saint, the fabled Thunder Emperor, and the once-old Pharaoh Hynek.

“I am known as the Saint of Summer, but my name is Ignacia, Mister Hynek, and...” the proclaimed saint who spoke cordially gave a small bow of her head as she clasped her hands together before her stomach. Strange sense of manners. She knew it herself. Yet she followed it, almost religiously. It was as if she was dyed in red; her dress was a beautiful crimson clad in pieces of armor. As if having come from a far, foreign land. In fact, she did come from a faraway land.

“Thunder Emperor…” the other – who wore simple white clothes like any other Roman would – man answered. His gray hair and strong built gave an impression of a fearsome and overwhelming man. However, the two before him were just as extraordinary as him.

“Yes, I am aware of you, Thunder Emperor,” the saint finished.

“Oh? Are we all going by our special titles? I was left out of the loop. You may refer to me as Lord Aphrodisia.” said Hynek with a wink to Ignacia.

“Well, they are only names bestowed upon us by the humans,” the Saint stated. “Aphrodisia, if I may ask; have you, too, come for sightseeing?” She asked, particularly not caring about the meaning behind Hynek’s title, as if not fearing a man’s… instincts, at all.

“I suppose you could say that,” said Hynek with a smirk. “I also come on business.”

“I see,” the Saint answered tersely before she let her eyelids rest over her pupils. “To sleep, I assume?” She boldly asked. “Exotic experience is all about the added novelty, I believe.”

Hynek grinned at Ignacia. “Would you like to have such an experience, yourself?” asked Hynek. “I promise I won’t disappoint.”

“Who knows,” the Saint placed a finger tip just under her lips with a mischievous smile. “A true gentleman would rather find out then ask, yes?”

“Scoundrels… you dare mock our women?” Thunder Emperor said, his temper flaring. Black thunder swirled around him. His expression was a mix of terror and pure rage. A black-and-white wave launched forth; painting the world colorless. Time was frozen. Rome was frozen. The people were frozen. Except for the three. “I will not allow such a savage man like you touch my citizens.”

“Quite the opposite, I had a great time with your women,” answered Hynek looking around at the time-stopped landscape. “Now here, I am nothing if not a gentleman. Any touch I gave was asked for. Savagery is not the way to a woman’s heart.”

The Saint laughed.

The King mocked.

And the Emperor leered.

This would give rise to an event that would forever change the world.

“Oh dear, here comes Mister Domitian’s renowned temper,” the Saint stated, pleased from the brilliant sight of lightning.

The sky was cloudy and thunder soon roared. Even as time was stopped, nature apparently lived. Yes, only here. Only because of the emperor who ruled over electricity.

“Thunder with no rain, it’s like a pastry with no sugar,” commented Hynek. “I’d be mad as well.” Hynek could tell that the ruler of this city was on the last of his fuse however. “If it pleases you, I will do my best to hold back my...urges. While in your city at least.”

“Shut up. You’ve already touched them… I will remove the filth from my city,” the agitated emperor gave his verdict. A flash of lightning burst forth in all directions with a magnificent force. Hynek and Ignacia calmly jumped back; dodging the destructive power.

“Isn’t he flashy?” the Saint scoffed.

“Are we to resort to violence then?” said Hynek with a smile. A bright light flashed and a long white and gold coat appeared on his figure. Adjusting the tie on it, his relic weapon flashed from his chest and clamped onto his right arm. A golden wrist blade that shined as the flashes of lightning went off in the sky. “Trust me, this man doesn’t know flashy.”

“No, I shall reserve the word Mister Pretty Face for you, instead,” the Saint laughed as she replied. She drew her right-arm up towards the sky – a spear formed with a red and white light; as if crafting it out of thin air – it was a magnificent sight. She gave it a spun as she held her weapon – all ready for combat.

“I shall judge you filths! Prepare yourselves!” With such a proclamation – the fight begun. The Thunder Emperor seemed very anxious and impatient at the same time. A hammer formed under his fist, and it soon clashed with the stone floor; forming cracks. Pillars of blazing light showed themselves – before accumulating into the sky, and resulting in five orbs of lightning that floated across the air up in the sky, just under the dark clouds.

“Oh? That is quite the surprise,” the smile waned and a serious expression entered the fray. Saint of Summer was truly astonished, mysteriously enough. “For that hammer to be here… a marvelous relic, indeed,” she spoke with a smug face.

“Perhaps it can join the other weapons of conquered foes in my trophy room.” answered Hynek. “But I suppose I shouldn’t go underestimating him just yet.” Hynek looked at the orbs suspiciously as a gentle wind swirled about his relic. He began to pace around the emperor waiting for a chance to strike.

As Hynek paced around, the Saint begun a silent walk towards the Emperor. The Emperor smiled. It was a contorted expression. He was happy – from the bottom of his heart.

Lightning showered down from the skies. Thunder fell unto the orbs; making them larger, before the orbs rained waves of lightning down into the entire colosseum – shattering the concrete and stones mercilessly.

Hynek was protected by the spirits, while the lightning passed through the saint, as if she was an ephemeral ghost. Hynek increased the power of his wind on his wrist blade as it whistled loudly. Dashing in, he spun once before slashing through the Emperor. The wind dispersed in a loud screech that left the thunderous man deafened. Indeed was he – for the howls of the wind were louder than he could imagine. The Thunder Emperor was more shocked than further angered, but before he could make a move – he felt a very strong stinging feeling.

When he looked down, he found a crimson object.

A brightly shining golden lance draped in clear noble fluid was found crossed cleanly through his bare chest; Ignacia had stabbed him through his heart from behind him.

What Hynek saw behind the pained expression of the Thunder Emperor – whose lightning around him began to calm – was a face showing nothing but pity. Hynek looked up to him in shock. He hadn’t planned to kill this man today. He even took proper care to avoid vitals. Backing away he looked to Ignacia.

“Did we need to kill him?” asked Hynek.

“Almost,” Ignacia answered.

The Emperor roared, and the thunder sprang out. Hynek was confident that he’d be unscathed and smiled as the electricity washed by his attire. What he did not expect was for him to go blind due to the bright flash of light.

“Damnit!” Hynek exclaimed as he tried to cover his eyes. He had seen it coming, but was still too slow to react. Jumping away from him before he could be hit with another of the Emperor’s wrathful attacks, Hynek tried to regain his vision.

After some seconds, he could finally feel his vision returning. When Hynek opened his eyes however… he was utterly confused.

Hynek was greeted by a completely different environment.

Was the colosseum a wreck now? Was the area completely demolished? Was it bathing in lightning still? Was it witnessing the death of the Thunder Emperor?

Nay.

It was simply gone.

Hynek looked around, and noticed silver floor. There was hardly any light to support his vision that his pupils extracted for him to witness this new place. He could feel with his foot that the floor under him was definitely not concrete, but something much harder… and smoother, was it marble? He wondered. He narrowed his eyes as he looked forward… there, he found a pair of gates after his eyes begun to adjust with the lack of light.

The gates that were closed shut. They weren’t wide in breadth, but certainly long in length. Dark, grim, imposing, and strangely slim-looking. The doors allowed a peek of what lied inside as it opened; exposing an inch between the gates.

What he witnessed was a darkish red light. What lied beyond was beyond even his comprehension. However, his instincts told him not to approach it.

Spellbound, he couldn’t take his eyes off the gates, and for some reason unknown, he started to take steps towards it.

Click, clack, click, clack.

He heard echoes, but marched onwards, as if hypnotized by a superior power.

Suddenly, he could feel something from behind the gates. His instincts thought it was a blade, but his body would not move. It refused to listen, and Hynek came to his senses – he realized that he was doing things he shouldn’t. Regardless, even as his mind had thawed out from the ice, his body didn’t. His pupils turned to every possible corners of his eyes frantically, looking for something. Something that could perhaps save him. There was an old saying that when you meet the eyes of the caster – you can escape even the deadliest of witchcraft.

Hynek could not find anything. He begun to panic. His past begun to flash into his mind. He could feel it. He could feel the door to death drawing ever closer. Each steps felt as though they took an eternity to pass. Sweat rushed down his face as he approached it further.

Click, clack, click, clack.

Echoes were no longer reaching his ears, as he was starting to catch what lied beyond that red slid between the doors.It was horror itself. Dread, terror, and crimson redness of blood filled the air beyond it. It was truly – the gates of hell. There was no way he’d want to go beyond it.

Click, clack, click, clack.

His hand was drawn forward, and his fingers were inches away from the opening to the supposed Realm of the Infernals. Hynek – an immortal – felt fear, perhaps for the first time in his entire life.

Just as he thought all was over for him. Light greeted him.

Yes, light.

To his surprise, it came from behind, as the door was made visible due to the illumination. Carvings of black dragons were etched all over the door, as if they danced across it.

A hand rested over his shoulder. That figure – his possible savior – was a person overflowing with light. It was as if she was the angel, who descended into the pits of hell.

“Well, aren’t you careless,” a familiar voice spoke, and Hynek immediately turned to find Ignacia – the Saint of Summer – just behind him.


Unlike before, she was glowing with a mysterious light.

“You should be able to move now,” she added, as she took her hand off, “Mister Hynek.”

“What in heaven's name was that?!” Exclaimed Hynek, feeling his heartbeat return to normal. That entire time it felt as if he was not breathing.

“Beyond this lies the world of ruin and oblivion – the Realm of the Infernals,” Ignacia answered.

“Have you not heard of the prophecy?” She asked, apparently unfazed by this situation. Just who was she?

“What you see is known as – the Gate of Tartarus.”

“Why are we being shown this?” asked Hynek still slightly catching his breath. “Did the Emperor send us here?”

“Shown? We are here,” Ignacia said. “To be honest, I am just as clueless as you are, we should not be brought here unless all of us Descendants of gathered,” she added informatively, stating why she was confused. “I can… hear something,” the Saint turned, and she found the Thunder Emperor, standing behind them.

The Emperor held his hammer, and stood with a crazed look on his face, as if he was tortured, and was suffering from excruciating pain. Ignacia looked down to his chest, to find the grim hole, staining the rest of his body. The culprit – her spear – was long gone, and the Emperor was indeed suffering from his wound even now. After all, she completely took out his heart. Even then, he was standing. Remarkable feat impossible for a human, clearly.

Ignacia raised a hand before Hynek, and they soon backed away, while facing the mad Descendant; they moved out of the way.

The Emperor spoke not a word, he looked listlessly at the slit between the gates.

Something… moved. Hynek and Ignacia’s eyes immediately turned towards the gates.

“Run!” She exclaimed. Hynek and herself sprinted forth and took good distance, as the gates opened.

A ghastly noise rang out, and the roars of the dead could be heard from beyond the Gates of Tartarus. Red haze spilled forth, and crimson fleshy tentacles spawned forth.

Soon, they grabbed the arms, legs, limbs, and the Emperor’s body. There was no doubt that they held so tightly, that he could never escape, even with his powers – the noise of tightening was rather loud. Unrealistically, even so.

Ignacia simply looked away, as the Thunder Emperor was pulled beyond the gates. The moment he was pulled away was rather speedy – as if the scene was fast-forwarded – and it truly looked like something out of a cheap and shady †˜horror flick’ as one would claim in the far future. The doors immediately closed loudly – the mist stopped oozing out – as if having a satisfying meal.

Screams barely made their way out of the door. It was the screams of the poor Emperor. What followed were noises of flesh, meat, muscles and organs behind torn apart.

As Ignacia opened her eyes, she found Hynek beside her. What was different, was that they were greeted by the colosseum at long last. It was not shattered or wrecked, but was instead the way it was before the fight, with its color back.

Ignacia sighed. It was a long, and unrestrained sigh of relief unbecoming of a lady. “Turns out it is game over for those who enters before the gathering of all Descendants. Either that, or the prophecy is a lie, and every one of us are being lured to death with pretty words,” she guessed.

“From what I see here it more likely is the latter,” answered Hynek.

“Perhaps,” the Saint replied, with a jerk of her shoulders. “Unfortunately, I am the kind of person who cannot be satisfied from curiosity unless proof is provided. I shall one day learn the truth, one way or the other. Of course, I have no death wish.”

“Then for now I think that we can both agree to be rid of this place,” suggested Hynek. “I wish to be as far away from that gate as possible until we understand how it works.”

“Agreed,” Ignacia nodded, finally showing a smile again. “I was rather… tensed by all this. Say, why don’t we have some fun, for just this one night? I will take your offer up from earlier.” A rather mischievous smile arose from her yet again as she offered without a second thought.

“I do suppose one night couldn’t hurt,” answered Hynek with a knowing gaze. “Anything I can do to ease the mind of such a lovely lady,” Hynek took her hand and pressed his lips against her fingers.

“Well, let us do to a… better place, and we can take our sweet time finding a proper solution. I am sure an esteemed gentleman would be able to meet the requests of a demanding lady?”

“I can think of a few places we could go. Rome is a more interesting place than most people think, and it's an interesting place to begin with,” joked Hynek.

“Very well then, lead the way,” Ignacia responded, not really taking the joke too well.

The two soon left the desolate place known as the colosseum, soon to have their fun night.

Ignacia turned an eye to the top of the colosseum as the view was sinking behind the two after exiting it, while Hynek gazed forward – excited – and she witnessed a dark figure soon vanished into the air. She sighed, and faced forward again, rebuilding her usual charming smile.

And that was how the tale of the never-known history came to an end.

((OOC: Oh my God, we finally reached this part of the RP. You thought this was dying? Well, I thought the same, honestly. Anyway, if anyone is still reading this thread, there's much more awesomeness to come in this ride.))




Act 2 - The Rise of the Queen (Part 1)


The birds were singing songs; twittering. Their voices crossed the window, and into the room – full with lavish decorations – of which almost every entrances were sealed. The recipient of the voice was none other than the owner of the castle. She was dressed in a royal red and gorgeous victorian dress. However, it wasn’t for anyone to see, other than the measly number of maidservants who’d seldom be able to lay a glance upon the one who brought about Britain its glory. Glory that would be lost in the coming years of history.

She found in the chirping birds kindred spirits. They were, to her, companions who’d bring about a spec of lively feeling every morning. For she was a bird herself. Indeed, a bird in a cage. However, she was different from these creatures. In shape and form, only in metaphor could she connect herself to them. She couldn’t fly, she couldn’t travel great distances, she couldn’t sing as they could, nor could relish the freedom their lives were blessed with.

The Queen couldn’t even step out of the door unless she was required for any particular events. Her eyes were – almost always – stuck to parchments and letters. Various documents were always sent to her. Reports, requests, messages; the contents varied. For she had nothing to do, all she could do was read. Read, learn, and understand the context and meaning of the texts, and perhaps analyse. She’d sign on them if she’d need to, or she’d articulate a response on paper if she’d felt the necessity to do so, and then move on to the next.

This was how the apparent †˜bird in the cage’ spent her days in the castle. Due to the tight security employed by the protective magus of the Royal Council – which she herself thought was wise – her days would pass by with her idling and reading in a spacious room. Sometimes she’d find herself listlessly looking towards the window, towards the place where the birds lied somewhere, towards the scenary of her city where her people lived.

How envious she was of her people. How lucky they were to not be born as a privileged member. However, that was precisely the reason she wanted to protect their peaceful lives.

“Bored, I presume?”

The so-called †˜bird’ looked to the corner – to the lingering being overflowing with darkness. She needn’t attempt to look through the black veil. From the tone itself, the woman who stood atop the Higher Places of Britain had already ascertained that her visitor was grinning mischievously. Her happiness had almost made her jealous, rekindling her feelings from her earlier reverie. At the same time, she wondered how a woman like her was so happy. She imagined what fulfilled her.

No matter how she thought about it, she could only categorise it as a mystery.

“Good day to you. Welcome to my humble abode,” the Queen greeted. A polite smile and a courteous bow was given away without any second thoughts.

“You haven’t changed a bit since I’ve last seen you – what was it, a hundred years ago? – how boring,” the voice said, sounding a little irritated.

“Why not take a seat?” the Queen offered, motioning her hand towards the seat opposite to her table that was in the center of the room. It was a round table with four chairs on four sides. The person engulfed in blackness sat as directed without making a single noise. The Queen poured tea from the teapot that lied over the table, some distance away from her stacks of paper that she had now moved aside to face her visitor.

“Do you always stay here?”

“Indeed I do.”

“Why?”

“Because it is my home?”

“I find it suffocating. I know not how you’re able to stay here always.”

“I apologise if it is not to your liking.”

“Will you stop talking like that?”

“...How else am I supposed to respond?” the Queen seemed bewildered, tilting her head.

“Never mind,” the visitor sighed, as if giving up, but it seemed that her brows were knit regardless.

“So, how may I help you today? Is it my head that you desire?”

“I wish,” the voice said, as if mocking her, eyeing her accessories.

The jewelries that the Queen wore dazzled despite the fact that the sun never showered its rays on the country. They only glimmered from the candle set over the table so that the Queen may read or write. They were the true sentinels of the Queen, for they invoked fear upon assassins due to the amount of magic they held just by being adorned.

“Then your purpose for the visit is?”

“I simply came to laugh at you.”

“My, you must have a lot of time, then.”

“The Queen’s Meeting…”

“Yes?”

“It seems that you will have guests that would be a handful in the event.”

“I mind not, it is a pleasure to attend such an occasion.”

“Please, I am hoping that you will entertain me.”

“I shall try my hardest to live up to your expectations.”

“Really, can you? Hadn’t your blade – or should I say wand? – not gone rusty now?”

“If you so desire, I am foreign not to the ideas of providing a demonstration.”

There it was, the grin she felt when her visitor first spoke, except that the feeling was much more intense than before.

“Sure, why not? Everyone loves a sneak-peek to their much-awaited show.”

“Very well.”







“Hahahahaha!! Marvelous, to think you’d go so far! A wonderful display indeed.” the voice laughed and remarked loudly, the eyes of the visitor held a glimmer that showed the Queen that this person was truly happy – from the bottom of her heart.

The room was set astir with flames left and right, the carpets and the decorations burned ceaselessly. The two stood across the room. As the chairs and table were burned to ash, they had no choice but to relocate.

The weapon was wordlessly lifted – facing the ceiling – and the darkness of the visitor fell low, as if retreating away.

“Are you so bored that you wish to face me now? Aren’t you a little hasty?”

“O eternal father of the skies, pray bestow upon me…”

“...Have you gone mad?” the voice questioned, terrified; her expression was seemingly distinct compared to how it was a moment ago. The darkness cloaked the figure it revolved, as if protecting it.

“I am only entertaining a guest.”

Her words were soon followed by an ear-piercingly loud explosion that shook the walls of the castle before they crumbled and collapsed.







“The preparations are ready,” the lady with platinum hair said. “All should go according to your plan.”

“Good, Mary, good! At long last, we have come to this point,” a man said. A wheel spun eternally behind him, and stars rotated above his head. He was the very definition of a fantastical being. “Now I may enjoy the party in my own manner. Ah, but I forget, what of the Countess’ new toy?”

“Last seen in Ritz Hotel, Master,” Mary answered, her voice was dry and she didn’t seemed to be delighted unlike the other man in the room. “We are unable to observe her due to her current location inside the hotel.”

“All we need to assume is that she is no longer human,” he said, “The newer ones are easier to get rid of.”

“Yes, but-”

“Get rid of that filthy existence, and this is an order, girl.”

“Can we really not spare her, there is no confirmation yet!”

“...Are you deaf? Must I repeat myself?”

“...No, Master, it shall be done.”

“Good. All shall we well as long as you listen. I hear the Duchess Caroline is coming back soon, and with Aramus Valmark no less… don’t you believe this is a perfect opportunity for a most touching reunion?”

“You…”

“Anger wouldn’t do well for your position,” the man said with a big smile.

“Your wish is my command,” Mary looked down and cringed as she obeyed. She then left the room.

“Heh, the air changes with every passing day,” the man spoke to no one in particular, “I feel your descent, Virgo. How you decide to judge the peasants… I simply cannot wait to see it.”

Aramus paused in his eating, setting down his utensils with a soft clink. With the atmosphere as it were, it was hard to imagine that he had been through a terrorist attack and nearly lost his life not too long ago. He lamented that peaceful days would be scarcer as time went by. He then looked around, it seemed like Elizabeth was taking her sweet time in the washroom.

Before long, he heard some noises of people screaming. Aramus got up, alert, since it was just as he had feared; the ever-so-familiar noises of the gunshots were next to be heard. He looked to the window on the left, and thankfully, no one was there, but when he turned to the right, someone was holding the gun towards him.

“And there we have it! There we have it!” He yelled furiously, throwing his napkin onto the ground in anger. “What problem do you people have with me having a good time once in awhile!?”

The boy – or clone, as Alice put it – had a different face and blue hair. This change in facial appearance made Aramus wonder if he was truly a clone, however he was expressionless, and did not answer before he opened fire toward him, which resulted in another ear-piercing round of noises. People panicked and began to run away, but the gun was never moved away to a different target, so Aramus couldn’t get away in all the things that were going on.

Aramus flung himself out of the way, keeping track of the barrel’s direction. So long as he moved out of the barrel’s path, he was safe from getting turned into a pincushion. Weaving nimbly through the shower of bullets, he closed in on the boy and tackled him, slamming him down against the ground. Aramus then leapt back, feeling a killer’s intent, and he was right to trust his instincts when another one of such clone opened fire. Looking at the new boy, he was exactly the same as the one he tackled, who was already straightening himself up from floor. It was two against one now.

A gust whipped up around him as Aramus brought out Paimon’s fan but even whilst using it, it took longer than he anticipated due to some unlucky mishaps. The clones themselves weren't particularly dangerous but there were also other people to be aware of, not to mention fighting on the Doge’s boat would be cause for concern. The worst was when he actually slipped on some food in an attempt to dodge a hail of bullets, landing him flat on his back and turning his foul mood even worse.

With the clones done and dealt with, Aramus looked about, and he finally noticed; he hadn’t seen Elizabeth in a while. Did she escape along with the other customers of the ship?

Aramus ran a hand over his face in frustration as Alice’s words came back to him. Picking up one last morsel of calamari, he popped it into his mouth and headed off the boat. No point hanging around here anymore, people were starting to gather around. Taking one last look at the two clones on the ground, he gave his hand a flick, sending them flying into the canal with his blast of wind. “Assholes. Least I don’t have to pay for what I ate.”

He had to find Elizabeth before she committed the atrocity. Following the crowd and disembarking the ship in a hurry, Aramus noted the time taken to deal with the two clones and snagged a local map from one of the various storefronts, checking to see how far Elizabeth could have potentially travelled in that time. Folding the map closed, Aramus ducked into a side street and made his way onto the rooftops of Venice, using handholds and the venetian architecture to raise himself to a higher vantage point.

Since most of Venice was separated by canals, Elizabeth wouldn't have much choice but to use a water taxi or something similar if she wanted to travel quickly. Aramus began to run, periodically looking down into the various canals to see if she had indeed taken a boat. Before long, he found himself looking down at the Rialto bridge, somewhere he had wanted to take Elizabeth. Crouching, he searched the landmark for any sign of her but sighed when there was none.

Clicking his tongue in irritation, he turned back and headed down another canal leading in the opposite direction. This time, he would travel off the beaten path. Perhaps she would be in one of the quieter neighbourhoods. Aramus doubted his student was the kind to kill a child near a populated area. A church bell could be heard, its loud ringing echoing off the narrow canal wars and he paused to take a breather.

Drawing out the map, it read Santa Maria church judging by its relative position, he couldn’t be sure with Italian. Again, nothing. A little compulsion from his ever present companion however, persuaded him to check out its interior and he found himself before its doors. He opened the door, creaking as it moved and entered. Afternoon light streamed in through stained glass windows and one could see the dust in the air. It reminded him of the orphanage somehow.

Wooden pews were arranged in neat rows directly facing the altar. Although the church was small, it seemed to have a decent following or at least the alms collected were sufficient as the equipment used was more intricately designed. Various candle holders dotted the sides of the church, unlit. He ran a hand over the prayer books on a nearby table, their covers worn with age and use. The altar itself was fairly normal, a beam of light from behind it casting a glow on the stone slab. A bible lay on a cloth, the altar cloth draped neatly over most of the stone, and there was someone standing right before the altar.

The figure held something, or rather, someone. Aramus did not wanted to believe the shape of the familiar silhouette he was witnessing. The sight of deep, crimson blood on the floor was clear, and his mind wanted to deny the scene before him.

Elizabeth was there before him, crouched with a young boy on her arms. A bloodstained boy. There was a large wound on the boy’s chest. Elizabeth’s expression was hardly visible as she faced against the rays of the sun.

He was too late. Aramus walked up to the altar, heart sinking with each step. The sound of his boots against the stone floor were loud, echoing in the silence of the church until he was able to see the boy’s visage.

The girl looked crestfallen herself, having done the deed she never thought she would. Her tears shone from the sparse lights of the sun that befell her. Eventually, she looked up, her dark expression stained with her tears finally visible to Aramus.

“I see you caught up,” she said, her voice dry, “Are you here to laugh at me? For having to sink so low as to do such a deed?”

Gone was the laidback teacher she knew, in his place was someone else entirely. A frown was all he had as Aramus regarded her. “Why would I laugh? Does this look like a laughing matter?”

“A more distasteful matter, I would suppose,” Elizabeth said, pulling herself up. A blade formed before her as she moved her hand before her chest. Taking hold of it, the large blade was ignited with flames, and it cleaved through the body of the child that lied in front of her. Moments later, the flames eradicated the body completely, leaving nothing but ashes behind.

“What’s distasteful is my inability to stop you.” Aramus said as he waved a hand, the ash scattering upon the winds and carried away from the two of them. He walked off the side of the church and called to Elizabeth. “Come.”

“I am sorry, but I cannot do that,” Elizabeth said, turning towards the altar. A shadow stood in front of her before Aramus knew it. “Please go on ahead.”

“You intend to make this day more unpleasant than it already is.” Aramus said just loudly enough for her to hear, lighting a candle for the deceased boy. It would ensure a vigil later, all he could do for the poor soul.

Elizabeth raised her left arm, and touched the shadow. The blackness spread out to reveal a portal, and it enveloped her; sucking her in. Right then and there, Elizabeth disappeared, leaving the shadow behind.

With a scowl and against his better judgement, Aramus stalked into the portal.

“Here is the blood, as requested,” Elizabeth’s voice was heard, as Aramus struggled to make things out in the darkness.

“I see you have performed well. Good girl,” a different voice praised her, handing her something in a pouch. “With this your mission is complete. You are free to return till we next contact you.”

“Would it be possible to not contact me throughout my stay in London?” Elizabeth asked.

“Hmm… you are a participant of the Queen’s Meeting, I suppose. So, it is possible. However, depending on the circumstances, we may have to assign you a new task,” the voice answered.

“Then, about them…?”

“As usual, they will be taken care of.”

“I see,” Elizabeth said, with a graceful bow, one that was ruined by her countenance, “then I shall take leave.”

“Very well. Remember our contract, and remember what occurred… Till we meet again,” the figure in black robes – or so it seemed to Aramus – turned into black water and dissolved into the air. From his view, the room was black and there were hardly any interiors he could make out the details of. Only Elizabeth and the robed man was seen, until he disappeared and left Elizabeth alone with Aramus.

Elizabeth turned and found Aramus. Wordlessly, she crossed by him, finding the black space behind through which he came through, and took leave. He sighed, following behind her. Once both were back in the church, Aramus spoke. “Was that your first?”

“...”

Aramus let loose another sigh. “I’ll take that as a yes. Best be prepared then, I doubt you’ll only be getting children.”

“...This was hardly the first,” Elizabeth finally answered, but she didn’t sound anything like the usual Elizabeth Aramus knew. “I am sorry that we weren’t able to go to the Doge’s Palace.”

“Hmm, well it won’t be the last either. You’ve already embarked on this path, I don’t need to lecture you about it. Though I didn’t expect my classes to be used for this. Now, come.” Aramus followed her out into the open, a bitter taste in his mouth.

On the northern Veneto region of Italy stood the capital city of Venice, apparently built on more than a hundred islands, and Aramus happened to find himself in this beautiful city after taking leave of the airport with his group. The air was cleaner, the view was better, and the people were not hiding under their masks, Aramus couldn’t be happier.

“Ahh,” Caroline took in the air of the city. “This is so much better. I do not mean to offend Beijing or its inhabitants, but I’d prefer to live here if I were to choose from either China or Italy.”

“Agreed,” Takeru nodded, stretching his body, glad to be free of the aeroplane. He had been sitting for too long and was now feeling sore from it.

“I want a spa, it’s so tiresome to travel for this long,” the Chinese lady commented, still traveling with the group. She seemed to be going to England for her own reasons, and tagged along with the others.

“What a beautiful city!” Elizabeth commented, her eyes sparkling, taking in the marvelous view before her.

Torn between trying to keep up his image or indulge, Aramus settled for agreeing enthusiastically with what everyone before him had said. “A large improvement indeed. The smog from before is incomparable.” He took a deep breath, the salty sea breeze filling his lungs and refreshing him.

“I’ll be heading to the hotel and getting ourselves rooms booked for our stay here,” Takeru said, “We got only a day on this marvelous place. So perhaps you guys should just sight-see as I take care of things.”

“I’ll come along, they can probably offer spa after the arrangements are dealt with,” the Chinese lady said, giggling happily at the thought of getting to relax further, joining Takeru.

“I have to go find some associates of mine from the Royal Council,” Caroline said, “Mister Valmark, I leave Elizabeth to you for the time being. I am guessing that she’d love to take in the sights and landmarks more.”

Aramus’ head darted to the Duchess upon hearing those words, stunned.

“I am implying that I am placing my trust on you, kind sir. Understand what these words mean, please,” Caroline said, “I shall be off, daughter, take care.”

“I’ll send the coordinates and information through mail to you all when the bookings are finalised,” Takeru said, “We’ll be off now.”

Soon, Takeru and the exotic lady went their own way, and so did the Duchess. Aramus and Elizabeth were left alone in the central area of the city.

“Oh, my. Seems… like we are alone together today,” Elizabeth uttered, shy, looking down, “What shall we do?”

“What do you want to do?” Aramus questioned in reply, “There’s so much to see, so much to do. We could eat, travel the canals in a gondola or take a water taxi to explore the larger parts of Venice. Any would be good in my opinion. Maybe we could visit the Grand Canal or the Doge’s palace?”

“I never really… knew much about Venice. Only that it is a beautiful place – which I have gotten to confirm today – would you have any recommendations, teacher?”

“I only know of a few places and one day should be sufficient. Let’s go!” Walking eagerly to a nearby gondola pier, Aramus whistled. Gondolas were common all over Venice due to their popularity amongst tourists. Taking a water taxi would have been faster but he felt the scenic route would be more enjoyable. Sure enough, one boat could be seen heading towards their location and Aramus waved Elizabeth over. “Come, come. We have much to see but first, we eat.”

“I suppose you could not wait any longer for the food of Venice,” Elizabeth said, chuckling as she ran over.

The two soon boarded the gondola and the two were soon experiencing the ride over water. The cheerful ferryman was more than happy to oblige both of them and Aramus requested for them to be taken through the Grand Canal to a place called the Doge’s Palace. As usual, the Grand Canal was crowded. Filled with various other ferrymen and water taxis plus the occasional water bus, it was not something either of them had witnessed before. Compared to the neon lights and the sounds of Tokyo, Aramus found he appreciated this more.

Aramus found Elizabeth looking in almost every direction with glee. Her eyes sparkling much more than before. The young lady of the house of Cavendish Bentinck had hardly been in any other countries than Japan or England, her last visit abroad were only to France and China for the travels she experienced when she departed from England for Tokyo.

“Who would’ve thought a river would be the replacement of a road? This place is simply magnificent!” she exclaimed, praising the place. “So, where are we going to get our lunch?”

Aramus smirked, searching for something before turning back at the ferryman and nodding. “We’re eating there.” He pointed at a humongous ship just at the edge of the canal. The nearby vessels looked tiny in comparison and there was a steady stream of them coming and going from the boat. “That’s the Doge’s personal ship or so they say. We’re going on board.”

“Doge’s… personal ship?” Elizabeth repeated the words Aramus spoke, “This? Whoever it is, they must fancy ships beyond an ordinary level,” she commented, following after Aramus into the vessel.

“The Doge is the elected leader of Venice. As a sign of that, he gets the largest ship in these waters by far,” He explained. “His palace is right next to it but… I doubt it can compare to Her Majesty's. So lunch will be on the boat and then, we will tour the palace.”

“I see, I look forward to it,” Elizabeth said, her hands joining for a merry clap, apparently looking forward to the tour. “I must agree, it would probably not compare to Her Majesty’s mansion. I have once seen it, – if we exclude the structures of Tokyo – it was by far the largest establishment I had seen.”

“The structures of Tokyo hold a different kind of charm from that of our Majesty’s. They do not have the same grandeur,” Aramus said sagely. As they neared the Doge’s boat, the ferryman brought them into its shadow and both could only gape as the vessel loomed over them like a giant. Soon enough, they were tethered and both teacher and student stood on the deck of the largest ship in the canal. They then continued to the section that contained the restaurant Aramus was anticipating, and soon enough, the aroma rushed into his nostrils, and he was happy to have been born into this world.

Taking their respective seats, Elizabeth looked over the menu. “I see… quite a lot of seafood,” she noted. “What shall we have? I am rather uncertain.”

“Why don’t we ask the waiter? Apart from that, squid ink is a local delicacy I suppose,” Aramus said, waving a maitre’d over. A sharply dressed one responded, weaving through the tables with practiced ease.

“Good afternoon, Signore. How may I assist?”

“Good afternoon, I was wondering if you had any local dishes to recommend? My partner and I are not familiar with Venice so we would like to hear from one of the locals regarding this,” Aramus said, indicating Elizabeth and himself.

“Ah, Signore, then might I recommend our catch of the day? Baked monkfish in tomato garlic sauce, fresh from the local waters. We also have grilled octopus dressed with lemon and olive oil and finally, a lobster set, from soup to pasta. For travellers such as yourself and Senorita, might I also suggest the squid ink pasta? It is popular amongst the tourists.” The maitre’d said, smiling at both as he listed the options.

“...I must confess, my poor little heart is not ready for squid ink or octopus,” Elizabeth said, feeling ashamed at herself for having to divulge this in front of the waiter. “I’d simply go with the lobster set, however. What about you, teacher?”

“I shall have an order of baked monkfish. Do you have anything less adventurous than squid ink or the grilled octopus?” Aramus inquired, trying to remember what little he knew about Italian cuisine.

“Calamari, Signore. For the Senorita, that is a dish of lightly battered octopus and squid, sliced into bite size pieces. It it served with tomato puree on the side.”

Aramus looked at his student expectantly, hoping to indulge in more gluttony.

“O-Oh, my. I suppose I have misunderstood. Pardon my lack of knowledge of delicacies,” Elizabeth said, even more taken aback. “I believe I can go with it.”

“Well, it’s alright if you don’t. I’ll order one side of calamari, if you feel up for it then try and see if you like it,” Aramus reassured her. Not everyone was as adventurous as he was with food. The maitre’d repeated their order before heading off to the kitchen, leaving the two of them alone again.

“It is rather embarrassing when you’re not informed about food,” Elizabeth stated, her face still red. “I wish I’d have done more research on the modern worlders. I only ever interacted with the old and the futuristic, and have not interacted with what was left behind in between.”

“It is no problem at all. I enjoy reading and learning about them but never really have the chance to visit another country… It still amazes me how our world is so convoluted. We can enjoy so many different things at the same time,” Aramus commented, trying to ease away Elizabeth’s troubles. “Sometimes, you just want to let loose. Besides, the menu in most of Italy changes far too often to keep track of.”

“I see,” Elizabeth responded. “Perhaps I’ll look into different things some other time. I cannot quite calm down enough here to research, and I will not find the internet on England, so I have to wait till we get back to Tokyo,” she said.

Aramus nodded and the two made small talk, taking in the scenery of Venice and basically enjoying themselves until the waiter came back with their food. The smell was amazing and absolutely mouth-watering to Aramus, barely able to contain himself when faced with true authentic Italian fare. The antipasti looked glorious, calamari battered and fried to a golden brown, the monkfish looked absolutely delicious with the sauce drizzled all over. He was sure it tasted as good as it looked.

He began eating with gusto, pausing occasionally to let out a cry of delight. The food was being consumed at a slower rate than what Elizabeth was used to seeing, Aramus finding the time to savour his meal instead of trying to eat it all at once.

Elizabeth watched as Aramus ate with what seemed to be beyond gluttonous pleasure, which somehow made her feel happy. She soon ate silently – her usage of the silverware hardly making any noise – the lobster set that was provided before her, neatly cutting her portions just so she could eat them one by one. As soon as the food landed on her tongue, and the taste was experienced, she started consuming faster. She was surprised to learn that she finished her food faster than Aramus.

“I see you appreciate Italian food even more than I do. Go on, try the calamari. You’ll like it.” Aramus smiled after a mouthful of heaven. Watching his student eat with such joy made him feel a sense of satisfaction, it was the first time she had eaten that way in front of him.

Elizabeth gulped at the sight of the calamari. For the first time, she felt as though she could sympathise with her teacher’s want for food. “Here I go,” she said, bracing herself. Her fork was soon stabbed against the ring-like pieces of octopus, and dipped into her mouth before a look of delight came afloat her countenance.

Aramus’ smile grew wider in response. Another had fallen.

Elizabeth soon finished, wiping her lips with a tissue. “Excuse me, I’ll be heading to the washroom,” she said, getting up, and taking leave. Aramus could see her stop to ask a waiter for directions before she proceeded to the washroom.

Alice was waiting in the corridor before Aramus arrived, and the two soon walked into the control room. When the two arrived into the scene, there were still two of those men from earlier trying to figure out how to drive the train. The blood remained there like before. Aramus explained that the other person who came with him would drive. The men were suspicious considering how Alice looked – beautiful and dignified and all – but had to accept what he said, since they couldn’t get the job done.

Alice’s eyes glowed blue as she stood before the controls, she looked intently for some seconds before touching the panel, and something seemed to have changed.

“With this, the Magic Train will now be under my jurisdiction temporarily,” Alice uttered, apparently to no one in particular as she faced the trail ahead.

Nodding, Aramus shooed the two men out of the control room, telling them they could keep things under control. Once he was certain that no one would be around, he turned back to address Alice. “Pisces… Or I suppose you go by Alice in this age. Would you entertain one more selfish request of mine?”

“And that would be?” Alice asked, not turning to Aramus even for a moment.

“When the three of us left to deal with the intruders, those clones... Did the one we left behind come into contact with anyone… or anything?” Aramus furrowed his brow, not exactly anticipating the answer and yet he needed to know. If anyone knew, the one before him would.

“...The weight of this request is tall. How do you intend to pay me for the answer?” Alice asked, “On another note, someone changed the entire route of this train. We are essentially being taken to the wrong direction.”

“I am but a humble man, insignificant when compared to one such as yourself. All I can offer is my word to not enter battle with yourself, unless I hear it from the Her Majesty herself. It’s not much but your actions today have placed me in your debt, whether I like it or not. Also, having spoken to another of your kind, I understand that sometimes… you want to be left in peace.” Aramus said, bowing from the hip.

Alice cast a glance as Aramus begged for information, and decided to comply. “Very well, if what they say is true, I doubt your Queen would order you to partake in a fruitless conflict,” she stated, confident on the chances of victory. “The Society’s Security Branch 1108 was activated with the following command: diversion. The objective was to lure away the Caroline Cavendish Bentinck, as well as the two Magic Magisters traveling with Elizabeth Cavendish Bentinck in account of a †˜meeting’. Agent Raven from The Society contacted Elizabeth Cavendish Bentinck, and commanded her to eliminate a certain figure, who may be found in Venice.”

As they say, curiosity killed the cat and Aramus bit his lip in frustration. “Thank you very much for this information.” He closed his eyes, taking a deep breath as his heart sank further. “I am grateful yet sometimes, there are things better left not known. Such are the lives we lead.”

“Additionally, I may as well let you know that her target is but a child, younger than herself,” Alice added. “She has to retrieve a blood sample from said child after committing murder, and deliver it to Agent Raven.”

Aramus kept his peace on this subject, instead focusing on the other point Alice raised. “And this will all happen in Italy so I can presume that The Society is responsible for changing our course to meet their own ends. How I dislike all this shadowy work.”

“Our course is indeed deterred, hence the flight will be missed. The next earliest flight available will lead to Italy, Venice, and the next Magic Train scheduled to leave for England is also from Venice,” Alice stated.

“Convenient,” Aramus scoffed sarcastically. “Well, now that we’re going to Venice, will you be staying there to enjoy yourself? After all this sleuthing, I think I could use a day or two to unwind.”

“Enjoy? ...That is an impossibility,” Alice answered, “With about 174 Organizations having caught the rumor, 34 Organizations mobilizing, and The Society confirming me boarding this train, I must state that I am to remain vigilant.”

“T-those are some pretty precise numbers… Well, if it makes you any… less stressed, there’s one less Magister to worry about. You also mentioned something about a rumour? Three Magisters and a Time Warrior travelling on the same train to Venice together?” Slightly taken aback by the number that she had given, Aramus could only smile sheepishly upon bringing up something he considered a bad topic.

“To China instead, because that is our destination at the moment. With the alteration we will not be coming to Beijing as scheduled, however,” Alice said, “The Society wins yet again. Now they are the only pursuers that can truly keep track of her travels.”

“Here I am, learning new things about my country… bad things at that, from one of my supposed enemies. Indeed, we are all being played for fools. I’ll try and keep Elizabeth from going down that path, even if it means stopping her myself.” Aramus sighed again, the bad habit was making itself known a lot today, and looked around the control room to distract himself.

“I would not recommend interfering with Elizabeth’s actions and objectives,” Alice replied, offering an unexpected advice. “In that case you will be altering her conditions.”


“It is still most troubling for me, not only as one of Her Loyal Subjects but also as a teacher of hers. A child her age should not be an assassin,” Aramus reasoned in reply.

“Aramus Valmark, you sound idealistic, and perhaps childish. There are much younger assassins in this world, trained by the very European Alliance you are under,” Alice begun, continuing to elaborate, “She is not harming an English, and she may hold greater obligations to her masters in The Society than we may know. No one kills a child without reason, if they hold even a speck of humanity in them… I am certain. If you deter her, you will not be questioned, but instead, she will indeed be questioned regarding her integrity. What guarantee is there in the possibility that you won’t be placing any more burden than what she is carrying already?”

“Someone always has to do the dirty work, I get that. It’s not something I’m unfamiliar with anyway. Compared to my previous job, dealing with angsty teenagers and their hormonal problems is a much more desirable profession. There is not much I can do for others except to impart my knowledge unto them and occasionally, shoulder their burden alongside them. It might not make a difference but there is no knowing without trying,” Aramus stated.

Indeed he felt it was a lofty dream, to be able to live the simple life everyday without having to worry, to have three meals ready for you and a bed to sleep in, a place to call home. Sure, his own situation wasn’t the best right now and although not forced to be an assassin, there was still hardship in his younger years. It was due to someone's intervention that he had ended up in the spot he held right now and if he could do the same, why not?

“That does not change the probabilities that you may worsen Elizabeth Cavendish Bentinck’s conditions,” Alice stated, disagreeing with Aramus, “how idealistic indeed,” she added as if confirming her view on Aramus.

“Sometimes, I wish I was but a mundane. Ignorance is bliss, they say,” Alice said, apparently speaking without a given question “It was already near confirmed before I matured that I would be a Time Warrior, thus my future was lost from my grasp.”

“You and me both, Alice. S’not like I wanted the Magister position, if anything I would’ve been happier keeping a low profile but both of us are pawns on fate’s chessboard, planted in positions neither would’ve liked.,” Aramus laughed loudly at that, fancy a Time Warrior in a similar position. He felt nostalgic, reminiscing about his days in the Royal Academy, getting into scuffles and the matches with his mentor. Simpler times. “But that’s why right now, I try and enjoy myself. Don’t get too caught up in whatever power plays or whichever faction ruled the roost, just live the simple life though it looks like I don’t have a choice now.

Alice closed her eyes. “I hear the voice of your heart… you worry… too much. You are eventually going to get caught up in many things,” it was evident that Alice’s eyes stopped glowing when her eyelids were opened. “I suppose you could still alter your way of living to lead to an even better life, unlike me. Pray tell, have you ever heard of the legend of Odin’s Curse?”

Aramus perked up at the mention of Odin, listening to Alice intently. “Now if there’s a method to reduce the amount of worrying I do, please teach me. It would be extremely helpful and no, I have not. Sounds like something good to kill time with so let’s hear it.”

“A long time ago, it was said that Odin had twelve daughters. Each with differing symbols,” Alice begun, “Valkyries, they were called. They were equipped with a lance, and a shield. They were provided the blessings of the spirits. They were tasked with slaying the Infernals from the Gates of Babylon. One day, however, one of Odin’s daughter did something she was not supposed to – she fell in love.”

“Odin, furious, punished his daughter and put her in deep sleep. Thus, she was the sleeping beauty’. The man whom she fell for eventually kissed her, and woke her up. Odin was defeated and the Sleeping Beauty was freed. However, when the Ragnarok came, the Sleeping Beauty was missing, and the Valkyries were defeated as the humans fled for their lives instead of taking up blades and staves to fight alongside them. The Sleeping Beauty was the final Valkyrie who survived as she left with her beloved, while the rest perished.”

“Thus, Odin cursed the world, his surviving daughter, and the selfish and self-centered humans that inhabited it; so that the spirits would choose particular people they find fit to become their hosts, but instead of saving the world from Ragnarok, the hosts would bring about the Ragnarok themselves… is how the legend went,” Alice said, finally finishing.

“That’s a really dismal story,” replied Aramus, face scrunching a little in distaste. “So it’s all one sick joke cast upon all of us by the old man Odin, huh.”

“There is more to the tale, but the records are lost and time may have altered this story to what I have thus recited,” Alice stated, unsure of how true her story was, “However, I certainly have the ancient blood of Valkyrie. That was how they confirmed that I’d become a Time Warrior.”


“Must’ve had different types of Valkyries if we have Time Warriors popping up all over the world. Say, as a Time Warrior, have you been around for relatively long?” Aramus inquired, honestly interested to know exactly how long Alice had lived.

“Considering human lifespans, I would state it long,” Alice answered.

“That’s rather vague.” Slipping into one of the chairs in the control room, Aramus lamented that it would never be as good as the one back in their shared cabin. “You don’t look like you enjoy being a Time Warrior but what does the spirit inside have to say about all this?”

“I am not obligated to provide an appropriate answer to that question,” Alice said, not wanting to tell how long she may have actually lived. “A normal life.”

“Your spirit thinks this is normal?” Aramus said, raising an eyebrow apprehensively. “Then again, I suppose Sagittarius did say she wanted a similar thing. Funny how you are given time eternal to make it happen yet it doesn’t make one happy. I probably wouldn’t mind living that long, it’s whether I get the chance to. My prospects at a regular, peaceful life are disappearing by the second.”

“A normal life of a human is what they wish for. Alas, that was not meant to be,” Alice said, shaking her head. “The spirits have varying opinions, but it is not like they do not understand my situation.”

“At least you have one that sympathises with you, I can hardly imagine if you were picked by one that didn’t. What do you want to do then?” Aramus asked, though he felt that at this point, he was prying more than making small talk.

“I want to remain the idol that I’ve managed to become, and I will support my country all the same, for that is my role,” Alice answered. “There is nothing more to it.”

“Ahhhh, idol.. Like that huge display of you in Tokyo? It must be difficult balancing those two roles, especially since you’re probably in the public eye half the time. Can’t say the same for myself, I’d prefer to just remain an unknown existence.” Aramus shook his head in spite of himself. With his recent contribution to the fight against Sagittarius, there would be more public scrutiny on him, something he definitely did not want or need yet here was an eternal being that strove to be in the limelight. “Well, so long as you enjoy what you do, it’s fine. I must say the… gap between that image and your current self surprised me greatly.”

“Perhaps it is difficult, but it is nothing new anymore. I have adapted,” Alice said, somehow sounding proud despite her monotone voice. “The… gap, you say?” she asked, turning to Aramus fully with curiosity.

“True, I suppose it’s the same for me.” Aramus nodded in understanding, thinking of how to properly explain the †˜gap’ to Alice. “It’s something I picked up recently after becoming a teacher and trying to find methods to reach out to the young ones. There are these things called anime that Japan produces, something that isn’t on my homelands’ shores. Naturally, there are an abundance of… cute characters or characters that do cute or loveable things. They call that †˜moe’. That is what I felt from your poster, if a foreigner could call it that.”

Aramus looked Alice over again, the image still contrasting with what he had seen in Tokyo. “And having met the real you, who is miles away from the image portrayed, that is the †˜gap’. Some people love it and call it †˜gap-moe’ but I’ll bet your fans don’t get to see this side of you, huh?”

“I suppose there was such an anomalous behavior in human which led to the creation of such labels,” Alice said, apparently calling humans strange, she wondered if it was alright for her to show such a gap to her fans, however. “Aside from work, I am simply a marionette, and remain as such… there is no reason to act as though who I previously were anymore. I suppose my fans would likely not see this part of me for the times to come.”

“Do you need a reason to enjoy oneself? I can’t say much about the bigger things such as fame or prestige but it’s the little things in life that bring me greater satisfaction. You say I worry too much but sometimes, it feels as though I’ve got no worries at all.” Aramus shrugged his shoulders, not exactly agreeing with Alice’s viewpoint. “You might be immortal now but you were once human, some part of that must have carried over.”

Now it felt like he was counselling one of his students, not that he had ever received any requests for counselling but it was always a start. That and the fact that he didn’t really know much about idols. “Maybe some of your fans might not like that you’ve got another part but isn’t that what we are? It’s not as if people are a single shade, we’re diverse. It would… also make me happy that you were going the extra mile to make me, the fan, feel better. You can’t and don’t have to always please everyone, just those few that you consider important to you would be a start. As an idol, you wouldn’t be in that position without being loved by your fans, right?”

“That is a travesty of an idea. Why should I divert my image just to portray an emotionless shell of myself to my fans? My fans are content with the facet of my old personality and I am thankful for it,” Alice stated, seemingly irritated by Aramus’ views. “And you do not have worries? Petty lies, Aramus Valmark. I can hear everything from your soul. You are willing to run away from public eyes because you feel that your reputation is bad. You are almost always afraid of being recognized for who you are, how would you assume that you are in any position to judge and lecture me? Get off your high horse.”

“Hah, you got me on that one regarding my reputation. I couldn't care less about myself, I only fear for the people I hold dear. That's why this reputation is a necessary evil.” Like a child caught with his hand in the cookie jar, Aramus looked quite chagrined at himself. “But I digress, sometimes there are things best left hidden.”

“It is all the same. Your fear for others being considered bad due to being with you, worries are worries, regardless of whether it is for yourself or not.”

The Magister †˜hmm'd’ in thought, not exactly agreeing or disagreeing. She had a point though, he had spent more time worrying for others than for himself. “I need a vacation.” He muttered.

“Teacher, are you alright?” was the first thing Aramus heard as he entered the room. Elizabeth ran over to inspect Aramus, and he seemed to be just fine.

The Duchess stood up. “So, what happened there? It didn’t seemed like she lashed out and attacked for any reason.”

“We had a nice chat but I’ll probably need some comfort food for awhile. She didn’t know anything about our missing driver when questioned but we came to an agreement and now, I have to escort her to the front of the train.” Aramus quickly grabbed a pack of biscuits from where he had stashed them earlier, eating to reduce some of his stress. “I’ll explain later but for now, you can rest easy. We have a driver again!”

“Uh, um, what?” the chinese lady tried to make sense of Armaus’ words. “So… she is gonna drive now?”

“Seems like it…” Takeru said, it was hard to make heads or tails of what Aramus said as he hastily got himself some biscuits.

“I suppose she has grasp of some knowledge of driving the train,” the Duchess thought out loud. “I guess she doesn’t want us there if you’re telling us to rest easy here?”

Aramus nodded, too busy munching to answer her verbally. After a few moments of chewing and a sip of tea later followed by a relieved “Ahhhh~”, Aramus was ready to go but looked extremely conflicted. “Well, it’s not nice to keep a Time Warrior waiting so I’ll be going now. Have a good rest in my stead.” He said, looking very forlorn at giving up his beloved seat.

The Duchess shrugged. “If you say so.”

After going through a few of the reserved rooms, Aramus finally came across the person she was seeking, Pisces. One would rather call her the host of Pisces, but the Magic World treated the host and the spirit as one sometimes. Pisces wore a deep blue dress, full-sleeved, with a long skirt. Her face was expressionless and she looked at Aramus with indifference.

Tsuruko was laying on Pisces’ lap, with her injury seemingly treated now, and all she needed to do was recover in time. Tsuruko was thankful for Alice for treating her wounds, and she took this time to rest. Seeing her teacher come into the room however, she would suspect he came regarding the recent event. She listened in on their conversation, waiting for her mind to find some answers among it.

“What do you need from me, Aramus Valmark?” Alice asked, her voice monotone.

“Just dropping by to say hi. You wouldn’t happen to know who spirited away our train driver, would you? We’re in a bit of a pinch because of that.” Aramus said, scratching his cheek nervously. He looked at Tsuruko lying on Alice’s lap for a moment, suddenly thinking of a pet cat. No good, he couldn’t get distracted now.

“I do not know,” Alice answered, “I have only learned of the driver’s disappearance now.”

“I see. Would you be able to lend a helping hand as to look for him?”

“My data on the passengers are sparse,” Alice said, “Only information I received was an ambush that took place in your room. Aside from that, there were anomalies from the train eliminated. Without any data as lead, I may not be able to track the suspect. The assassin was intending to defeat me, or at least wound your student here – in which case she was successful – but that was it. Considering logically, I doubt she is behind the disappearance of the driver.” Some of the information she gave now conflicted with the answers she gave to Tsuruko earlier. Perhaps she did not wanted to divulge the details to her, for some unknown reason.

“It may be that we have another faction at play here. Somehow, only our room was targeted by those gunmen and an assassin was sent against you. Perhaps they were trying to instigate us against each other.” A shot in the dark but there were too many pieces missing from the puzzle.

“Doubtful,” Alice stated, “The Society’s killing clones were sent by the Security Branch to remove the following threat: Caroline Cavendish Bentinck, a loyal follower of Queen Victoria. Whereas in my case, the Anti-Japanese Government sent an assassin in order to check my stance throughout my travel. The latter was a wise decision,” she evaluated. “As they may have ascertained, I intend not to fight. Your student has to engage in every case. Either way, I believe your guess is far from the truth.”

“At least one of us seems to be on top of things,” answered Aramus. “All these things happening at the same time… Never mind. I understand you do not wish to be disturbed so I’ll take my leave right now, though please excuse me if I do return bearing more information. I thank you again, for now and that time you saved me from the swing.” Aramus bowed ever so slightly, a smile of mirth for Pisces.

“I may provide a helping hand for the missing driver, however,” Alice offered before Aramus left. “I can drive the train.”

Aramus bowed once again. “It would be immensely helpful if you were to do so. Unfortunately, with my talents I am unable to do much in this situation and as such, have to rely on others for help.”

“I do not blame you for taking a more reasonable approach,” Alice said, carefully getting off her seat and letting Tsuruko’s head drop on the seat now. “However, I will help on the condition that you safeguard me from any hindrances. I believe there is merit in us helping each other in this situation. Neither of us would want to go off-course, yes?”

“It is as you say.” Aramus trembled, imagining the effects of being late to the Queen’s Meeting. No doubt he would bring shame upon all those present. “I will gladly offer my services if not just us, but all the passengers of this train reach their destination safely.”

“As long as I drive as it should be driven, there should be no issues,” Alice stated. “Tsuruko, do not move around, and no, do not get up,” she said, noting Tsuruko’s thought process.

“I– ugh... understand. Do not hesitate to contact me should you require my assistance.” She laid on the seat, seemingly lazy to get up – or not wanting the pain of doing so – she shut her eyelids for a moment. She wasn’t in any worse condition as she was when she first got heavily wounded, but this time, her teacher seemed more than capable enough of protecting Alice. She knew that she had to get up sooner or later, but for now, it seemed like she was not needed.

Alice gave a small smile. “Good girl,” she said, leaving the room.

Aramus made to follow but remembering something, he turned back to the prone Tsuruko. “Oh yes, Tsuruko. Regarding your fight just now, I would rate that a six upon ten. Your inexperience led to a hit from your opponent but otherwise, your swordplay was good as usual. Also, as a woman, do not attempt to use strength to win. You should play to your strengths and focus on your agility to score hits, clashing swords against such an opponent would be to your detriment.”

Tsuruko did not know her teacher was watching her fight, would she have known she could’ve at least try to use some of her techniques. She was about to counteract her teacher’s words by detailing the small space of the grounds of which she fought in, but realised it wasn’t an excuse, if anything. She noted her teacher’s concern in his words. “...I’ll do my best next time, sensei. I am grateful for your words.” She gave a weak smile before shutting her eyes again.

“Nonetheless, good effort. I see you have been doing some training of your own but for now, get some rest. I’ll make sure nothing happens to her.” Aramus said, leaving the room and Tsuruko on her own. Finding Alice waiting outside for him, he offered an apology for keeping her waiting.

“It seems like my decision to allow you and the Duchess observe paid off,” Alice commented before they started walking towards the front driver room of the train.

Aramus laughed at her words but he was not about to engage in a fight that there was no chance of winning. “I may not look like it but I’m averse to starting these kind of fights. No point throwing my life away so easily. I should inform the Duchess of our intentions, lest she comes for me in my absence.”

“Go do that then,” Alice replied, “I will head for the control room. We may meet there. However, please do not bring the Duchess with you.”

Nodding, Aramus headed towards the shared room, slumping forward with a sigh as he entered. “I need a pay raise. Or more food.”

The Duchess and Aramus scoured the train for this apparent culprit throughout the train, but they couldn’t find anything again. It was frustrating. The Duchess finally suggested checking back to their room to see if everything was alright, and this was when they got the biggest shocker.

Aramus and the Duchess found their apparent culprit sitting and relaxing with a cup of tea from Elizabeth, while she was talking with Takeru.

“...What?” the Duchess uttered, dumbfounded. The red chinese dress was exactly as it seemed in the darkness. There was no doubt in her mind.

Aramus fell back into his seat with a plop, wanting very much to plant his face into his palm. “Tea is the best drink after a fight, isn’t it.” He said grimly.

“Hm? What do you mean, teacher?” Elizabeth asked, confused.

“Is something wrong, you two?” Takeru asked, bewildered too.

“What are you guys doing letting an assassin into our room and having tea with her?!” the Duchess shouted, pure rage decorating her face.

“Huh? What’s going on?” Takeru asked again, as if none of the Duchess’ words were heard.

“Calm down you two,” the lady in chinese dress spoke. “I’m on your side. What’s the fuss about?”

“I think so too,” Takeru added after her, “She is my old friend. Granted I did not know how she knew about us being here, but she seemed to be injured when she came knocking on our door, so I helped her out.”

The Duchess sighed and took a seat. “...Seriously, now? So, how exactly are you on our side?”

“I was hired by Mikaido’s dad here and attacked Pisces and her runt… who was hanging around with a relic of wind, unexpectedly enough. I did my job and tried to help England, what’s the issue now?”

“That you killed the driver?” the Duchess said, trying to remind her of something she may have done earlier. Whatever reason she may have had, killing the driver was likely a very bad idea.

“The driver? What?” the chinese lady said, confused. “Is the driver really dead? How will we get to China then?”

“...Don’t ask me that,” the Duchess said, her palm meeting her forehead.

Elizabeth and Takeru listened to the exchange between the two and more or less understood the current situation, but they were too relaxed to be on the edge now, especially with Elizabeth’s tea.

“And so, we’re back to square one except that we may have a pissed off Time Warrior on our hands. This day couldn’t get any better.” Aramus sighed, looking extremely tired. “Elizabeth, do you have any more of that tea? I think I could use a cup myself.”

“Of course,” Elizabeth beamed as she replied, already in the process of setting up cups full of tea for her mother and her teacher. Soon, she handed the two the tea they wanted.

“Tell me about it, we still do not know who killed the driver. At this rate, we probably won’t know at all. The trail is going cold, and we couldn’t find a thing in the train,” the Duchess stated, taking a sip of the tea, it was very refreshing, rejuvenating, even. Things were indeed not looking good for them.

“I’ll go ask †˜her’ whether she knows anything.” Taking a sip from the tea to calm his frayed nerves, Aramus let the warm liquid sooth his body. “As usual, this is good tea.”

“...You cannot be serious. That is dangerous, Mister Valmark,” the Duchess warned, clearly against the idea.

“And that is why I am going. I do not believe she harbours ill intentions, especially since she didn’t end me the last time. Perhaps she didn’t know I was a Magister but unless you’ve got any other ideas, I’ll be going after I finish this wondrous cup of tea,” Aramus said, smiling.

The Duchess sighed. “Fine, do as you please,” she said, giving up on stopping Aramus, “but be careful.”

“Be careful…” Elizabeth said too, but she seemed a few times more worried than her mother.

Aramus nodded as he drank more of the tea but stared sternly at the asian woman. “And you, at least think twice before you decide to attack someone that powerful.”

“No? Tell that to Mikaido’s dad,” the chinese said, “He told me to attack regardless of the situation or whoever Pisces is. Don’t ask me why. He just did,” she said in her defense.

Aramus and the others had parted ways with Tsuruko, and hadn’t met her since then. The group had just finished dinner and was on their way back to their room. The Duchess noted some of the train staff speaking with each other in hushed tone, and it seemed like they were tense.

“Is something the matter?” the Duchess inquired, making way to the staff members out of curiosity. She couldn’t let go of the incident this morning, either. It was strange. Too strange, and it hardly attracted any attention, to the point that someone simply came to give a half-hearted apology and leave as if they were apologising for simply providing a broken cup for tea accidentally.

“Oh! The Duchess! It’s alright. We got this under control!”

“Psst, idiot, what are you saying,” the other man jabbed lightly at the more surprised member of the staff. “Miss, nothing is going on. Please go back to your room.”

“Mister Takeru,” the Duchess called, and simply walked back to Aramus and Elizabeth. Takeru went ahead, beckoning the two to follow him for a moment.

Aramus and the others then heard a loud thump, and Takeru soon came back.

“So, turns out that the driver of this train is dead, and they aren’t sure how or what happened,” Takeru informed. “This is serious.”

“Turns out something is indeed going on. This sounds bad,” the Duchess responded.

Aramus sighed as all hopes of him relaxing evaporated into thin air. “Let’s get to it then. The terrorists won’t be waiting for us to make a decision. I’ll head to the front to investigate how the driver was killed.”

“Alright,” the Duchess said, “I’ll go with you,” she said, going to Aramus, “Elizabeth, and Takeru, you guys stay in the room. Just to be safe.”

“But mother…!” Elizabeth cried out in protest.

“Your mother is right, please come with me,” Takeru said.

The two soon left, with Takeru giving a reassuring nod and Elizabeth going reluctantly.

The Duchess then faced Aramus. “Shall we?”

In the front room of the driver. They found a lot of blood, but the corpse was nowhere to be seen. Was it carried out? There were two of the employees trying to figure out how to control the train.

“What are you people doing here?! Go back, this is not the place for passengers,” one of the men said, but their words fell on deaf ears.

“Calm down, we’re here to help,” the Duchess said.

Aramus nodded in agreement. “I understand your desire to adhere to protocol but can you really afford that in this situation?”

“Oh who are we kidding? We can’t even figure this out, and there’s a murder on our hands,” the man finally conceded. “We’ll provide whatever information we have, for God’s sake, whoever that’s going around killing people has to be taken off this train somehow.”

“We will help. How about you tell us how the driver was killed, or where his corpse is now?” the Duchess inquired.

“Truth be told, we just assumed that he is dead. No one knows where his corpse is,” the man answered.

The other person beside him spoke. “We only saw blood and this room empty and thought he died. He is in fact missing.”

“I suppose anyone would make that assumption,” the Duchess uttered, looking at all the blood on the floor. “Let’s go search for the culprit, we’re gonna have to scour this place.”

The two then moved on to checking out the train.

After about thirty minutes, the Duchess was rather irritated. “And at a time like this a pair does something… so shameless…” she said. On the final compartment, beyond the door to what seemed like a small lookout with a railing, two were apparently having the time of their life. Little did she knew that she was acquainted one of them.

The Duchess turned around and left, “We go to the roof.”

Here, under the curtains of the night, Aramus and Duchess witnessed glints of steel under the darkness.

“Something is going on,” she whispered. It wasn’t as much as a whisper in reality, but in the heavy air current outside the train it was as good as a whisper to Aramus. There were two figures standing before them, and another person far ahead, facing this apparent pair.

Aramus’ eyes adjusted to the darkness soon enough, and it seemed both the people in close vicinity are people he recognised. The taller figure was undoubtedly someone who met back in the park in futuristic Japan when the mechanical swings went out of control. The other person was… the shaman of the Shrine Organization – Tsuruko. She held a blade, which he assumed was her relic weapon, a fabled sword.

The person on the other side seemed to wore a kind of dress that left her legs bare. She held what seemed like a knife. It seemed like a… chinese dress? But he wasn’t sure.

“Do you see anything, Mister Aramus? My eyes… are yet to adjust, I believe,” the Duchess inquired.

“Three targets straight ahead, my student and an… acquaintance against a lady wearing an oriental outfit. Could be an enemy of the Shrine if Tsuruko is taking action. Your orders?” Aramus said, crouching down close to the roof.

“The Shrine is an enemy, but I’ve been meaning to keep it peaceful with your student. I do not wish to dabble much here. Let us observe,” the Duchess answered. “I think I can see them now… that garb… it is so eye-catching.”

Aramus had made himself comfortable as soon as the Duchess gave the order, seated on the roof as he observed the confrontation. “Indeed, very eye-catching. This is a good chance for me to note my student’s progress as well.”

The Duchess shrugged, seeing Aramus so calm and composed made her feel like sighing into the air before she herself sat down. “Wait, that other person… could it be… how could I forget? God be good. That is Pisces right there!”

“Oh, you.. Wait, that’s Pisces!?” Turning around to face the Duchess, a look of confusion adorned Aramus’s features. “I’ve met her before but…” He trailed off, composing himself and went back to observing the fight.

“You met her?! So she knows us both then,” the Duchess exclaimed. “I know for a fact that this is the third time I am seeing her. First being on the war, and second before I was about to take down Artemis the other day, and now here…”

“It seems she has a habit of popping up whenever there is trouble,” noted Aramus. “Well, now that my student and her are working together, this is going to be quite the challenge.”

“I just hope they aren’t making way for our homeland,” the Duchess said, solemn. “I can’t beat her. Her powers are a different kind of a monster.”

“We’ll have to worry about that later I guess. Staying up here too long would also be detrimental as the train is still driverless,” Aramus mused. “But with Time Warriors, it is always prudent to assume the worst case scenario.”

“We should probably not stay here too long indeed. I cannot imagine what will take place if she locates us,” the Duchess said, wary of Pisces. “Considering the case, however, I cannot imagine Pisces murdering the driver. It may be the person on the other side holding a dagger.”

“I’ll assume my student has already informed her of our presence. In the event one of us needs to stay, I will do so. Our Majesty cannot afford to lose you. I, on the other hand… Well, at least I can say I’m here doing a practical evaluation of my student if she does inquire why I’m observing.” Aramus chuckled weakly, not exactly liking what he would have to do to ensure homeland security.

“Oh hush, you,” the Duchess said, “Neither would Her Majesty want to lose you, a Magister. If we go, we both go down. Let us observe as planned. If they reach our country as a result then so be it, it’d be better than dying. We already know that neither of us can defeat that monstrosity.”

Aramus merely remained silent, intending to carry out his duty to his last breath. Despite feeling a bit happy at the Duchess’ kind words, he knew that losing her would be a larger blow to Her Majesty than if he died. The Duchess commanded more prestige and power than him, not to mention Elizabeth. The choice was obvious if one had to pick.

“Yet sometimes, we struggle nonetheless,” Aramus sighed. “At this point, there is no use running if the enemy is at our gates.”

“A difficult matter this is…” The Duchess concluded.

The unidentified woman attacked soon enough, before the two spectators in the back noticed, and there was a clang loud enough for everyone to hear as Tsuruko’s sword collided with the dagger. The two vied for supremacy in a contest of strength. The two’s blades then clashed a few times as they exchanged blows before Tsuruko pushed the stranger back with her strength. She then charged and attacked, injuring her opponent. The opponent staggered, surprised of Tsuruko’s strength before backing away, observing her movements.

Not giving the opponent any chance to rest, Tsuruko produced another quick strike on her aggressor. With a clang of their blades and a fight for strength as before, Tsuruko eventually knocked her opponent back and used the moment where she was gaining back her footing as an opportunity to make a clean hit.

The woman lunged but Tsuruko nimbly parried, what she didn’t notice, however, was that it was something of a feint as she kicked her on her gut in the next moment, and charged with her knife on her chest, making a clean slash on Tsuruko before she darted backwards, and jumped off to the air, disappearing into the darkness of the night.

“Augh… not again...” Tsuruko moaned slightly. “What am I going to tell her now that I can’t defend myself against some kind of lowly whelp?”

“Tell her that you drove her away?” Alice answered in Tsuruko’s stead, approaching her, apparently having overheard her talking to herself somehow. “You have room for improvement, but that was good enough. She retreated knowing that she did not wanted to risk gaining more injuries,” she added. “And she wasn’t any lowly whelp either, she was a professional assassin.”

“...I thought she wasn’t going for the two of us?”

“She was after us, but possibly gave up, or will wait for a better time. Now that she has an injury, I doubt she hopes to take my head,” Alice stated to Tsuruko.

“Let’s hope s- ouch.” As much as Tsuruko wanted to remain calm and capable, the wound on the side of her chest burned in mellow pain.

“Let us leave and go back to our room. I shall treat your wounds,” Alice said, beckoning Tsuruko to the door they came through earlier that lied between the two compartments of the train below.

Tsuruko followed Alice. “I’ll be in your care again, then...” she wondered when she would stop being so careless and make for a decent bodyguard.

Meanwhile, the Duchess beckoned for Aramus’ attention. “We’re going down now. She might be our culprit. Let’s go after her.”

“Understood.” Aramus felt it was a somewhat lacklustre showing. Tsuruko obviously had the skills, she just lacked proper experience in a fight. “Would’ve liked to say hi at least.” He added under his breath.

The Duchess and Aramus rushed all the way to the dining section. Upon their entry, they were greeted with a sublime aroma of food wafting across the air. Their tensions and worries were casted into the air then and there, as they found themselves a table and took their seats. Takeru joined moments after, but he didn’t seemed to be as liberated as the two. Elizabeth appeared about five minutes later to join the trio.

“So, I hear they serve everyone with a four course meal,” Elizabeth begun, “Would we be able to even finish all the food provided?” she asked, unsure of her own appetite. Despite having three people over, she still remembered her time alone with Aramus in a restaurant, and it somehow brought a smile to her face.

Aramus looked between the Duchess and Takeru, tilting his head in confusion at her question. “Actually, I think a four course meal might not be enough for us.”

“Indeed, why don’t we order a six course meal instead?” Caroline suggested, agreeing with Aramus.

“You underestimate these food titans, Elizabeth,” Takeru said with a snide smile.

“Ahaha…” Elizabeth chuckled weakly, “Well, I… I suppose I could pass off the leftovers to you, teacher,” she said, facing Aramus, a bit of blood flowed up to her cheeks as she spoke. The thought of her spoons touching with her food… it already made her realise what she was intending, but she couldn’t help herself.

“I’ll be happy to.” Aramus replied smiling, overjoyed at the thought of a six course meal and having extras in the form of leftovers. Many people would call it a bad form of manners but when a chance like this presented itself, to hell with appearances. You take it! This would’ve been a perfect day without the previous intrusion. Aramus thought, a bit sore but nothing good food wouldn’t fix.

The Duchess narrowed her eyes and watched Elizabeth suspiciously, before she shifted her view to Aramus. “No, I will be taking her share. You take Takeru’s food,” the Duchess finally said, not making it easy for Aramus. “I’m sure Takeru would have lesser leftovers for you,” she added with a grin.

Aramus clicked his tongue in mock annoyance but gave in, feigning hurt at the Duchess’ actions. “Lesser leftovers… Yes, I should order something ala carte besides the set meal…” He mumbled, glancing between Takeru and Elizabeth before his eyes lit up. “Elizabeth, you have to eat more, you’re still growing!”

Elizabeth knitted her eyebrows, glaring at Aramus. “So, basically, you want me to get fat?” her temper was rising by the moment as she asked.

At such a time, a familiar face entered within Aramus’ sight. The miko from the Eastern Magic Academy, Tsuruko, was here, looking around for a vacant table. Moreover, she was alone.

Aramus who was just about to reply with a raised finger paused, wondering why she was here. Alone.

Tsuruko glanced around, locating a seat when a glint shone in her eye. It took a moment and a rough shaking of the head before she confirmed she wasn’t being delusional. Needless to say, she was taken aback. Again?! Those two! Wondering if it was mere luck, or lack of it, she automatically tried to face her back towards them, but her garments were all too recognisable.

As his student turned away from him, Aramus felt a tiny stab of pain at being ignored. “Hmm,” he mused, now actually reconsidering whether or not to call out to her. He was beat to the punch by his favourite student.

“Miss Tsuruko,” Elizabeth beckoned, waving to her, “I do not know why you are here alone, but if you aren’t waiting on anyone, why don’t you join us?”

“...! I, uh…” stuck between confusion and disbelief, Tsuruko had considered the option of declining them, but looking around, she hadn’t found a single seat available due to the peak lunch hour, and plus, she didn’t want to ruin any impressions on her by turning down an invitation so soon. “I-I guess…” Moving towards the group, she spotted an unfamiliar face, one that she’d not seen yet. Before any questions came to her mind about her identity, she bowed, “...Please allow me to take a seat.”

“Yes, please,” Elizabeth said, observing Tsuruko now taking the sixth and final seat across the table. “Please allow me to introduce my mother to you,” she said, continuing, “Here is my mother, Caroline Cavendish Bentinck, an esteemed Duchess of England,” she introduced, motioning towards her mother before facing back towards her, “and Mother, this here is my classmate from the Eastern Magic Academy, Miss Fuyuoshinriku no Tsuruko.”

“It is a pleasure to meet you,” the Duchess politely greeted, a slight yet gracious bow with her head as she spoke. That attire… unmistakably a shaman… is this a ploy of fate?

“A-Ah, it is an honour meeting you as well,” Tsuruko smiled, replying the Duchess’ gesture with a bow of her own. She was surprised that she was Elizabeth’s mother, and more so a Duchess of England- wait, England? isn’t that… Having this thought in her head, she almost wanted to take leave to tell Alice.

“So she is Elizabeth’s classmate, then that means she’s your student, Aramus?” Takeru questioned.

“Yup, that she is.” Aramus replied, waving at Tsuruko in greeting. “Haven’t seen you around in class lately, are you alright?”

Turning to address her teacher, Tsuruko spoke, “Ah, Valmark-sensei… My deepest apologies for not attending classes recently, I have been… busy, to say the least…”

“No issue. Make sure you’re at least doing self study to keep up with the rest of the class.” Really, sometimes he wondered if the school was too lenient on students or if this was the case in all the magic academies.

“I definitely will,” Tsuruko gave a sharp nod. She almost wanted to question her teacher and Elizabeth about why Tsuruko saw them together twice now, but that would have given away that she was there when they were in the city. She bore a mild feeling towards Elizabeth, as she could never forget the match where she got bested in. “...And I still have to return that muffin, I’m guessing.”

“Yes. Better polish those baking skills too.” Although he was grinning, Aramus took the matter of food seriously. It still irritated him that he lost a muffin to a blinding spell. “I’ll leave the flavour to you but make it sweet, not savoury!”

“...Understood.” Tsuruko never made it clear to her teacher that she hadn’t been practicing with the oven lately, and the fact that she herself didn’t like sweet things only added to the chance a totally different concoction could spawn out from her doing. Nevertheless, she figured she would try anyway.

“And I’m Mikaido Takeru,” Takeru finally said to Tsuruko, “A fellow Magic Magister as Aramus-sensei here, I was an exchange student in England’s Royal Academy, where I became a Magic Magister, and later went back to Japan and graduated, then became a teacher. I teach what we mages call the old languages, otherwise known as the Dead Languages, some subjects under Philosophy, and my specialty is the lore of Dominion. I suppose you haven’t seen much of me due to my differing fields. Regardless, it is a pleasure to meet you.” He had heard of Tsuruko before, as she entered the academy and became a scholar, and had heard of her progress, which wasn’t very impressive, much to his disappointment. He kept an eye on her specifically because she was allowed into the academy through the influence of the Shrine Organization.

“Ah, likewise, Mikaido-sensei,” Tsuruko bowed towards Takeru. Tsuruko knew herself somewhat acquainted with the Dead Languages as well as the Dominion Lore, but she had never had the chance of learning it under Takeru’s teachings. “I hope someday I can have the honour of being your student.”

“I hope so too,” Takeru answered, giving his trademark smile.

“Now,” Elizabeth begun, “Do we go with four course meal or six course meal as mother had suggested?” she asked, apparently it was a big deal now.

“With more people comes more portions. Definitely the six course meal.” Aramus declared.

“Indeed,” the Duchess nodded alongside Aramus.

“I suppose so…” Elizabeth replied, having somewhat expected this answer.

Meanwhile, Tsuruko found herself in a different reserved V.I.P room of the Magic Train. With Hynek, his wife and assistant Felix, Alice, and herself, the atmosphere was rather… strange. Tsuruko could see Felix snuggling Hynek from the side, a woman she only saw once back in the party. Unlike the time in the party, Felix’s dress seemed rather indecent to her, as most of it seemed to be loosely fit in place with her cleavage revealing. Alice seemed to not care about what they did, but Hynek tried to maintain a polite and civil face before losing his composure and indulging her.

Tsuruko sat still. She absolutely wasn’t one to strike up a conversation with people not yet well known like Hynek, and she also wasn’t sure of making conversation with Alice, since the recent exchanges between Alice and Hynek gave the impression that they would only talk about serious things. She sighed. Being in a carriage with two Time Warriors was stressful in its own way. She wondered what Felix was doing, too. She behaved like any other pet nuzzling against its owner, and wondered if Hynek were the least bothered by this.

“Shameless, are they not?” Alice commented, apparently speaking with Tsuruko, as she faced the window.

Hynek, however, kept his cool and smiled. “Well, we are human, nothing wrong with following our instincts?”

“Master Tamas, just forget them for now and…” Felix’s voice trailed away, her eyes were even more adorable than any pet a man could have.

Finally Hynek made got up from his seat. “We’ll be back…” he said, holding Felix’s hand and pulling her out of the room. As soon as the two left silence returned to the room.

“I suppose this was to happen sooner or later,” Alice said, still sounding as emotionless as ever, yet she commented on things almost like any human would.

“...’This’?” Tsuruko tilted her head, almost putting that question with intent. She was just curious, after all.

“...I suppose you are still a child. Never mind.”

“Ah. Pardon me…” Although inside Tsuruko was still feeling inquisitive, she didn’t want to further press on it. A chill of silence went by the room, and, hollow as any train would be, the howl of the wind practically begged for someone to break this silence. Keeping her head down, “So, um, Alice-sama… how have recent days fared you?”

“Same as usual, I suppose. Work was my only priority as an idol,” Alice said, “Albeit I took a partial leave due to this mission, thus I needed to attend the press for the announcement.”

Tsuruko knew herself that she would have to know about Alice’s world as an idol, considering that she would be with her most of the time, and there had to come a time that she would have asked this anyway, so she might as well: “What do †˜idols’ do?” She can only base from her understanding that they needed to perform in a large crowd.

“We entertain the crowds, advertise products for companies if we are popular enough, among other things. Idols are more or less involved in most aspects considering media and entertainment,” Alice answered. “However, there are only a few in each of the districts who are truly loved by the people.”

“Then, are you liked by your district? Or… how would you know, rather?” Tsuruko expressed interest towards learning of this… †˜world’. With every explanation Alice gave, she had more questions.

“I believe so, according to the top list, which was formed from the votes casted by the viewers and fans alike,” Alice answered. “The top list is always there to show us idols who is attempting to overtake our positions, or who we must overcome to be at the top.” She wasn't sure what else to say, it's like Tsuruko hadn't seen her in television before. Many popular places in Tokyo already portrayed Alice in various advertisements, how could Tsuruko not see them?

“Ooh, so it’s like…. a battlefield of sorts, then?”

For once, Alice chuckled, finding this comparison funny. “It is competitive, I believe. We idols perform on stage to †˜battle’ among each other sometimes, I suppose,” she seemed to be acting more and more like her idol-self as Tsuruko spoke to her more about the profession. “I wouldn’t call it the kind of fighting you know of, but I suppose everything has its own way to determining winners.”

“Sounds brutal, to do battle in front of thousands,” Tsuruko continued, “Do you like this kind of stuff?”

“Brutal? I do not think so in the slightest, but I find it fun indeed,” Alice said, smiling, “As an idol there is no greater joy than gaining the opportunity to perform before thousands of spectators.”

“I see,” Tsuruko beamed. “I think it’s a good thing, so long as you’re enjoying it! I, for one, could never display myself like that. Such confidence you have, Alice-sama,” Tsuruko wondered how she managed being in view of so many people and still able to keep calm.

“Well, we all have trouble presenting ourselves before the audience. I believe every idols feels the excitement and nervousness at the same time. It takes courage to display oneself and get over the stage fright.”

“Ah. One day I hope to get to see you during one of your battles,” Tsuruko smiled.

“I may reserve a ticket for you if you are really interested,” Alice offered.

“If you would be so kind,” Tsuruko bowed, “I would appreciate it greatly.” She wondered what exactly to expect were she to view Alice during one of her displays.

“Then that settles it,” Alice said, then turned her head towards the window. “Something is… taking place,” her eyes gave away a blue hue as she spoke.

“Is something the matter?” asked a curious Tsuruko, facing Alice.

“Infiltration,” Alice said, her monotone voice back. “Detecting several anomalous figures across the train. However, we are not targeted.”

“...Then who?” Tsuruko automatically assumed it to be one of the people that attacked Alice beforehand, but it seemed strange that they, or Alice herself, wasn’t being targeted.

“...I am not certain. I do not have data on all the passengers on board. It seems like we have a very broad assortment of people, however. Even those who’d get targeted by terrorists or some kind of an Organization.”

“Speaking of which, what of Hynek-sama?” Tsuruko mentioned the possibility of him being the victim of target.

“He went in a different direction with his assistant,” Alice answered, “Even if he were to be targeted, he would be able to take care of himself.”

“Then, will we be concerning ourselves with this bunch?”

“I suppose there is no reason to, it seems like most of them were eliminated just now.”

“...By whom?” Tsuruko furrowed a brow.

“...Again, I do not have enough data on the passengers.”

“Ah. My apologies.” Part of Tsuruko wanted to investigate, or rather, observe what had happened, but she had to stay with Alice whenever possible in case something had happened. It was her duty, after all.

“Anyway, it is almost lunch time, why don’t you go ahead to the dining section?” Alice suggested.

“Very well. Are you coming as well?” Tsuruko got up from her seat, extending a hand towards Alice.

“No, I do not intend to eat,” Alice answered. “Please go on your own.”

“Ah… Okay then. I will be sure to be quick,” Tsuruko promised, as she exit the room, looked at a nearby guide and followed the way to the dining hall.

Aramus, Takeru and the Duchess were now atop the train, looking around for their target. The wind was strong and they’d likely have trouble conversing with each other.

“Careful, we have more than one here!” Takeru shouted, alarming the two beside him. The three entered battle stance immediately upon arrival.

A few seconds passed, and a loud noise occurred, before gunshots took place. Aramus and the Duchess moved away nimbly, while Takeru simply withstood the bullets, a smirk on his face. The bullets fell off from his coat, much less penetrated.

“You won’t beat me that easily today,” Takeru said, who would’ve thought his coat would deflect bullets of all things? He chanted, beckoning mana from the Dominion Realm, and his pupils glowed blue. “Aramus, there’s one to your right, straddling on the wall. Madame Duchess, another behind you, between the two compartments of the train,” he said, finding the figures through his Aural Vision. “They have some kind of a magical ward on them, but I doubt they are anything that could withstand what we may dish out.”

Aramus strode forward, his robe fluttering wildly against the oncoming wind yet none of it seemed to deter him. This was his primary element and it was time to make use of it. Pulling Paimon’s fan out from within his raiment, he entered a series of katas and howling wind seemed to part ways around him.

Aramus danced with the current, gathering whatever he could muster into one powerful gust and sent it towards his target, the compressed air acting like a javelin as it tore forward like there was no resistance. He could then see his target get flushed out from the side of the train and carried away into the air before he crashed against a tree and was soon gone from sight.

The Duchess backflipped and landed behind the person hiding in-between the compartments. Soon, Aramus could see a similar-looking boy getting carried away by the wind in similar fashion compared to the one he dealt with, except that he had large ice shards sticking out from all over his body. The strange part of this ordeal was that the one he took out looked exactly the same as the boy who attacked them earlier, same for the Duchess’ target.

Takeru dashed forward against the wind and crushed the head of his target who seemed to be hiding between the compartments in front of him, and – like the other two – tossed him out of the train.

“Something is going quite wrong here,” he said, coming back to the two other Magic Magisters. “They all have the same face and clothes.”

“We’ve been duped,” Aramus said, temper flaring. This magic was not dissimilar to his but compared to it, these clones were skillfully created. “These were to lure us away. Elizabeth is in danger.”

The Duchess gasped. “...Of course, why did I not consider such a possibility?” the Duchess realised, grimacing. “Hurry, back to the room.”

The three nodded to each other and rushed back to where they came from. There was a man cleaning up the glass shards on the floor, tables and the seats, while Elizabeth was standing a somewhat far from the man, waiting for things to be cleaned apparently.

“You’re all back,” Elizabeth said, sounding relieved, “Were the threats taken care of?”

“Sorry about the mess,” the man apologised, “It seems like our trains gets these intrusions these days… and we can’t really find a way to stop them either. They always find a way to board in through ridiculous methods somehow,” the cleaner bowed his head to the Duchess and the others, taking up all the shards of glass on a tray of some kind before raising his hand towards the window. The shards flew back from the tray and affixed themselves to the window, apparently good as new.

“Please press the emergency button if anything else happens. Now, if you’ll excuse me,” the man then left the room. It was strange how such a grave situation was treated like an everyday thing casually in the Magic World.

The Duchess heaved a heavy sigh, relieved, she immediately went and hugged Elizabeth. “I thought you were in danger, daughter. Thank God!”

Likewise, Aramus let himself relax a little upon seeing that his student was fine yet something nagged at him. He would brood over this later, now looking at his cushioned seat with unhidden desire.

Takeru sat down and relaxed. “Strange. This is just strange,” he said, finding himself repeating his words.

“Apparently this isn’t anything new, someone on his way to Tokyo had this incident happen to him as well recently,” the Duchess said. “I wonder if this is a terrorism of some kind. What I don’t understand is why they’d target us, or my daughter, for that matter.”

“I don’t think they were here for us Magisters. Not many can best three at once, especially after reading the newspaper. Even if they wanted to take us out of the picture; destroying the train would be another option rather than coming at us head on like the clones did,” Aramus pondered, clutching his chin in thought. “They must have had another objective.”

“Hmm, indeed. I wonder if there is more of them hiding on this train somewhere,” the Duchess thought out loud.

“Perhaps we should investigate?” Takeru suggested. “But considering that it has all but calmed down for now, and has been known to be happening for a while, I’m not sure whether we should really take action or not.”

“I will. You can’t provoke the hornets nest and not get a reaction. I’ll ask the train staff later about the details regarding this,” Aramus replied, though he was more puzzled about the incident than actually feeling like subjugating whoever was responsible. If anything, he wanted to pry more information out.

“Let us hope you figure something out, then,” the Duchess said, giving a nod.

Elizabeth picked back up her newspaper and placed it over the table, getting all casual again. “Well, I think we can all just relax now that the threat is gone, yes? There’s so many more interesting things published here that I want to show to everyone.”

“You sure relax a lot faster than us, daughter,” the Duchess commented with a wry smile.

“Thank you for the compliment, mother,” Elizabeth said, beaming in response.

Aramus frowned but decided to lay back in his seat, the plush material massaging his body in all the right places. He let loose a contented sigh as the muscles in his body relaxed, tension ebbing away.

“Hmm, it seems like London had an incident where a Lycanthrope attacked,” Elizabeth said, continuing on with her article-reading.

“Ahh, I remember this incident,” Caroline said, reminiscing about the time this was reported. “My assistance wasn’t required apparently, but it was dangerously close to Her Majesty’s mansion, so I was quite concerned.”

“Close to the Majesty’s home, really?” Takeru asked, surprised.

“Mhm. They say that this is a sign of someone plotting things, like an assassination, no one can say for sure, though,” the Duchess replied.

Aramus cracked open an eyelid at the mention of †˜Her Majesty’ and †˜Assassination’. Life just wouldn’t throw him a bone and he grumbled under his breath, something about †˜bad luck’ and †˜disturb someone else’.

“...Well, putting that aside, I suppose it is lunch time. Shall we, ladies and gentleman?” Takeru suggested.

Now the other eyelid joined its compatriot, Aramus rising faster than anyone else. Now this was something he could do with pleasure! His eyes sparkled, already imagining what was being served in the dining car as opposed to the cheap bentou boxes he would’ve otherwise had. Words were not needed to convey his eagerness.

The Duchess was the second to rise up, almost just as fast. “Finally,” she said. “On to the dining department we go.” The Duchess marched away before Elizabeth could even take her attention out of her newspapers.

Aramus followed behind in step, forming a †˜party’ with the Duchess. “Yes, milady.” He added jokingly, though his smile was genuine when he looked over at Elizabeth. “Aren’t you coming?”

“Let me just finish this article, I do not prefer to leave things half-done,” Elizabeth said, not quite zealous about food.

“Don’t take too long, we might not leave anything behind,” Aramus added with a laugh.

Takeru shrugged and followed after. “Now, it wouldn't do me any good if I stick around here while you hungry people finish everything, would it?”

As the three left Elizabeth continued reading, sighing. “They’re too obsessed with food sometimes,” she commented.

“I see they are finally gone,” a voice spoke again, but Elizabeth didn’t react to it with surprise. “What will you do?”

“I shall take up your request, so please, stop sneaking around and eavesdropping; it is rude,” Elizabeth replied, cool and calm.

“As you wish. We will await for the good news in Venice. Good luck on your mission.”

Elizabeth then felt the presence disappear.

“If only I was not a noble…”