Continuing where we left off...
Ritsuka's perspective...
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It didn't take long for the Astral Express to arrive at the location of Xianzhou Luofu that Kafka gave us.
- Wow! So that's a Xianzhou ship? It seems much larger compared to Jarilo-VI! - March 7th is impressed and her eyes shine as she sees the appearance and size of the Xianzhou ship.
- I'm always a little surprised when I see Xianzhou Luofu from the outside and remember that these large ships are capable of carrying a large civilization. Instead of being a celestial body like most planets in this universe, the Xianzhou Alliance decided to develop a large spaceship. I have to admit I'm a little envious of their technology. It would be incredible if my world had one of these ships. - I say this looking at Luofu's space bridge.
"Now that I mention giant ships from civilizations. Do ships as big as those of the Alliance exist in the Servoverse? Hmm... It's a shame that Ishtar Space or MHX aren't here to answer my question."
- Considering how chaotic your world is, Ritsuka. I don't think that would be a good idea. - March 7th replies, shattering my happy imagination of having a giant ship.
- Argh. I don't even want to imagine the chaos that Senpai's humanity would cause by having access to one of the Alliance civilization's ships. Even Nous doesn't need to calculate much to figure out the size of the disaster that would happen. - BB gives a realistic answer about what would happen if my fantasy became reality.
Fou:Fou...
The moment our brief conversation ends, Himeko turns on the communicator to contact the people responsible for the Luofu space bridge.
However, strangely, we received a robotic and repetitive response that was also very weak, suggesting that something very strange is happening.
- Well, that's strange. The last time I visited Luofu, I didn't get a repeated automated response. - I cross my arms, raising an eyebrow.
- Hmm... I can hack the ship's system and open the gate for us to pass. - BB offers help with a calm smile.
- I don't disagree with the idea, but I think it would be better if we tried other alternatives to get in. - Welt said.
- I agree. Entering a Xianzhou ship without authorization is asking for trouble. - Himeko replies, supporting Welt's opinion.
- Don't tell me the ship is haunted?! Isn't this the perfect setting for a horror movie? - March 7th said, letting her imagination soar beyond the stars.
- If that were true, I would notice immediately. After all, I'm technically a spirit at the moment. - I say this, remembering the detail that I'm not using my human body.
During our conversation, the robotic, automated response we were receiving stopped repeating and said that the Jade Gate was open for our passage.
- The Jade Gate? Hmm... Is it just me, or does the Xianzhou Alliance have some similarities to Chinese mythology? Don't tell me we're going to have a situation similar to the third Lostbelt? - BB said with a suspicious expression.
- It's best we don't assume things without concrete proof, BB. - I said, glancing sideways at BB, who was starting to make things up in her head.
Fou:Fou! Fou! (Special translation: If I hear someone saying "jade beauty or jade skin," I'll vomit! I've heard that a lot from the Chinese Emperors.)
With the Jade Gate open, we decided to prepare our things to enter Xianzhou Luofu, ready for any kind of danger.
Knowing that I will inevitably encounter a Beast of Humanity, I decided to use my most appropriate Mystic Code to battle beasts.
With everything ready, Welt, BB, Março, Stelle, and I had a quick meeting to review all the information we have about our current mission.
- Before we leave, it's best we briefly remember our reason for entering Xianzhou Luofu. - Welt said, looking at me and signaling for me to begin speaking.
- Our mission is to help the Alliance deal with the Stellaron Disaster in any way we can, but knowing that our arrival here was influenced by the Stellaron Hunters and how the Alliance acts towards foreigners who have nothing to do with their private affairs, we probably won't start with a warm welcome. - I said this expecting a less than welcoming reception from the Alliance.
- And what about the Beast of Humanity that Kafka talked about? Are we going to have to deal with that too? - Stelle asks, and March 7th nods, implying she thought the same thing.
- BB and I are going to deal with the Beast. No offense, but I don't think you and March 7th are prepared to handle a Beast of Humanity. I'm confident Welt will manage, but you two won't. - I say, looking at the two girls.
- What?! You and BB are going to deal with the Beast of Humanity?! And what about the Xianzhou Alliance? Won't they interfere? After all, this is going to happen in their territory! - March 7th says, worried about this possible outcome.
- Hmph. To begin with, Beasts of Humanity are Chaldea's business to deal with, not the Alliance's. Therefore, their opinion is irrelevant to the current emergency, but if the possibility of Alliance interference arises, I myself will deal with it. Hehehe. - BB said with a sinister smile that I know very well is a promise of terrible events.
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Xianzhou Luofu Port...
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Me, Welt, BB, March 7th, and Stelle entered Xianzhou Luofu. The first place we stopped was the cargo port, which was extremely empty and silent.
- Urgh. Look, there are only containers in the distance that the eye can see. This area certainly isn't for receiving guests; it's for organizing cargo! Who was the genius who sent us here? This silence is giving me chills, and the worst part is that it's not even night. - March 7th gets irritated and frightened.
- I think it would be even weirder if someone were here waiting for us. - Stelle comments, making March 7th jump slightly in fear at the thought.
"Hmm.... How strange, there should be at least some movement here, but there doesn't seem to be a soul present."
Finding this situation suspicious, I look at BB, who has his hands on his hips, already waiting for my orders.
- BB, can you do a quick scan of the area? - I give the orders to BB, who smiles slightly.
- Right away, Senpai! BB-chan! Scan!!! - BB said, striking an unnecessary pose that makes me sigh.
BB summons her large wand and points it at the sky; immediately afterward, a small, harmless digital explosion occurs, covering the entire Port area.
After a few seconds of silence, BB responds.
- Senpai. I detected several signs of life in this port; most are injured, but some are in serious condition. I also detected a certain group of people a little further ahead who are currently in combat. - BB informs, drawing everyone's attention.
"Well, that makes the situation a little complicated, but we can work with it."
- There are injured people, and some in serious condition?! Mr. Welt, we have to help! - March 7th said, worried.
- You deal with the wounded, and I'll take care of the group that needs help. I'll summon two Shadow Servants to assist you with that. - I say this, causing two Shadow Servants to emerge from within my shadow.
The heroic spirits I summoned are Asclepius and Irisviel. Two heroic spirits who specialize in caring for wounded people. I could summon my Berserker Nurse, but I fear Nightingale might accidentally amputate someone.
- Wow... - Stelle said, impressed to see me summoning my Shadow Servants.
- BB, take Welt and the girls to the wounded and give me the map with the location of the group in danger. - I say this to BB in an urgent tone.
- Okay, Senpai. Here's the map. - BB said, handing me the map of the Port.
- We'll catch up with you when we're finished helping the wounded. - Welt said, and I responded with a thumbs-up.
With the plan given, I covered my body in black-blue flames and quickly ran to the location of the group in danger.
It didn't take long for me to arrive at the location BB showed, and upon stopping, I saw a group of exhausted Cloud Knights protecting a Foxian I recognized from the Abominations of Abundance.
"Wait a minute... Isn't that Ting Yun? Hmph, what a coincidence to find someone I recognize."
The black-blue flames dissipated from my body, and I approached Ting Yun, who quickly saw me.
- Ah! Mister Ritsuka! A little help, please?" Ting Yun said, not seeming at all afraid after seeing me.
- Quite a reunion, huh, Ting Yun? I see you're maintaining the elegance of a lady even in moments of danger." - I say this being a little sarcastic and casual about the situation.
The Mara-Struck soldiers who were previously focusing on Ting Yun are now completely focused on me.
- Hehe, I see your casual sense of humor remains as strong as ever. By the way, I liked the new style of clothing you're wearing. - Said Ting Yun, joining in my joke.
- I'm honored to receive a compliment from you. Now, if you'll excuse me, I have to burn some immortal pests. - I say this using Emiya's projection ability to project Okita Souji's katana.
"Using Okita's Noble Phantasm is a bit of an exaggeration..."
With that thought in mind, I cover the katana in black flames and use the Mana Explosion ability to quickly cut off the heads of all the Mara-Struck soldiers.
In the blink of an eye, all the heads of the Mara-Struck soldiers were severed, and then their bodies burst into flames, leaving no trace.
Was it necessary for me to do all this to enemies so weak compared to me? No. Was it necessary to do it to show off to an old friend and test my other skills? Absolutely yes. It's not every day I get the opportunity to stroke my ego a bit.
Finally. After the battle and a few minutes later, the rest of the group arrived at my location.
With the group reunited, I was able to explain everything to Ting Yun about why we were there, and I also introduced her to the rest of the group.
Ting Yun was initially suspicious, saying that we shouldn't be present due to the delicate situation in Xianzhou Luofu. However, we explained to her how we managed to enter Luofu.
Obviously, I kept the information about the Beast of Humanity a secret, since it's a personal matter and I didn't want to alert her further.
Having all the information, Ting Yun said she would take us to Madam Yukong to see if we could stay in Luofu or not.
After a long journey and doing a quick favor for Ting Yun, we managed to get on a transport that will take us to Starskiff Haven, where Yukong is located.
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Meanwhile...
Gudako's Perspective....
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Why?
Why am I wasting my time following this annoying, foolish girl instead of simply searching for the person I'm looking for myself?
I could easily fly and start my search. Obviously, the Cloud Knights would be on alert, and General Jing Yuan would probably start activating the rest of his pawns, but it's not like they have the ability to kill me.
During my time as a prisoner of the Alliance, they tried various ways to kill me. I endured everything, adapted, and evolved throughout it all, and I still remain even with the blood of Permanece's descendants in my body.
I have several alternatives to find the target of my mission, but still....
Why do I listen to this girl's nonsense?
- Hmm? Why the long face, Guda-chan? Is your Udon not to your liking? - "Said Sparkle, looking at me eating a skewer of meatballs.
- We've been on this pointless tour of this place for ages, and you still haven't guided me to where this man who can bring back my memories is. - I say this coldly at Sparkle, who lets out a slight, irritating laugh.
- Hehehe. No need to be impatient, Guda-chan! The show isn't ready to start yet, and the actors are still getting ready at the stage. What we both have to do is get to know the stage where the show will begin. - Sparkle said as if she were giving a show introduction.
- By the way. The illusion I put on you is temporary. You're one of the stars of this show, and it's my duty as the supporting character to get you ready for the climax! - Sparkle replies enthusiastically.
- Stop talking nonsense and start saying something coherent! I can't believe I listened to that damn old wizard! - I say this, my patience running out.
To express my anger, a faint red lightning bolt flashes across my right arm. Sparkle sees it, but doesn't seem intimidated.
Before our conversation could continue, I hear an alarm beep from her phone, and upon seeing the notification, Sparkle's smile becomes one of pure happiness.
- Hahaha! Looks like our actors are ready! Looks like it's time to open the curtains on this spectacular show that's about to begin! Hehe... Time to get down to business. Ah! Guda-chan, you can explore Luofu if you want. Sparkle will be busy for a while. - With one last annoying laugh, Sparkle starts to leave, leaving me alone.
I just stare at the girl, watching her run with all the excitement of a child, and I restrain the urge to throw my spear or red lightning bolt at her.
- What's the point of you being my guide if you're not even going to do the job? The next time I see that old wizard, you can be sure I'll kill him. - I say this while finishing the udon that Sparkle bought for me.
"Okay. Sparkle is useless to me now, so I'll have to do my search alone. But how am I going to find a person without any clues?"
- Maybe if I cause enough destruction, the person should appear. - I comment, contemplating whether or not to do it.
However, it was at that moment that I smelled a very familiar scent that I haven't recognized for many, many years.
- That smell... Hehe. Whoever thinks that Dragon is still alive, I thought he was dead after I bit his flesh. Ah! How could I forget, he's a Vidyadhara, death is nothing like a cycle of life. I think a reunion is in order. - I say this with a big, sinister smile on my face.
Ignoring the surprise of others, I make wings sprout from my back and begin to fly, following the direction where the familiar scent is leading me.
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Ritsuka's Perspective...
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After a few hours, we arrived at Starskiff Haven to speak with the leader of the Sky-Faring Commission, Madam Yukong.
To the surprise of the rest of the group, with me being the exception, they were astonished to see how hurried Ting Yun is when the situation is somewhat urgent.
Welt wanted to take a break so we could prepare, but I reminded him of the urgent problem I need to solve, which is the case of the Beast of Humanity that is loose in this place.
Knowing that we don't have the privilege of wasting time, we entered the Astrum Palace to speak personally with Yukong.
Before the meeting began, Ting Yun informed Yukong of everything that happened so she would already be aware of the reason for our being there.
We entered the Astrum Palace and met Yukong for the first time, and just by looking at her, you can see how busy she is at the moment.
- Greetings, guests of the Astral Express. Ting Yun informed me of the purpose of your visit. Receiving guests isn't normally one of my responsibilities... But since you're aware of Stellaron and said you want to help Luofu, I thought I should at least meet you in person... and politely decline your proposal. - Yukong said in a firm tone, leaving no room for negotiation.
Yukong's response didn't surprise me, as I expected it, and looking at Welt, he had the same reaction. March 7th looked irritated, while Stelle was slightly surprised, and BB had an expression of pure boredom.
Fou: Fo... (Special translation: Oh crap, here we go again...)
- The Xianzhou Alliance knows what a Stellaron is and is more than capable of handling this problem ourselves. We've been around for over 8000 years and have endured countless dangers and crises. "While the situation is serious, we have more than enough resources to spare. Outside help isn't needed on this occasion. - Yukong said, making her decision perfectly clear.
"BB: How ironic that they've been around for 8000 years and they still haven't managed to kill the Aeon of Abundance to solve the problem they themselves caused. Hmph, I guess that was expected from a faction that follows the Aeon of Friendly Fire."
"Ritsuka: BB, don't use our mental connection to insult the Xianzhou Alliance."
- You are guests from afar. You have no reason to concern yourself with our affairs. Am I making myself clear? - Yukong said again in a serious tone.
- Alright. If you're saying our help isn't needed, then we'll withdraw. - I said, already wanting to end the conversation.
- I have to say that's not possible. - Yukong said, intervening.
- Huh? And what's that supposed mean? - March 7th said, not liking where this conversation was going.
- It's only been a few days since Stellaron's presence was detected in Luofu. Starskiff Haven has been under full lockdown. No one is allowed to leave. So how did you come to know about the incident, and what led you to conclude that it's connected to Stellaron? I acquired historical access to Starskiff Haven. Not long ago, someone hacked into the system and opened the Jade Gate, after guiding you, the Astral Express, into our territory. The hacker was skilled and even taunted us with her seal. Her name is Silver Wolf, a member of the Stellaron Hunters... What do you have to say in your defense? - Yukong said, accusing us.
"BB: Senpai, can I turn this Foxian into a pig? It's been a long time since I've done that."
"Ritsuka:BB, no."
"BB:BB, yes!"
- So, because you suspect us of working with the Stellaron Hunters, we're forbidden from leaving? - I say, already having a good idea of her plans.
- Yes. Until the situation in question was investigated. - Yukong replies.
Before the situation could escalate further, a holographic transmission was detected. The person making the transmission was General Jing Yuan of the Xianzhou Luofu.
- Don't be too harsh, Yukong. If this get's out, the entire galaxy will think the Alliance has forgotten how to treat our guests. It's highly unlikely the Express has joined forces with the Stellaron Hunters. They are mortal enemies after all. - said the general with a polite smile.
- Oh? I didn't expect General Jing Yuan to intervene in this. I never thought I'd meet you personally under these circumstances. - I said with a slight smile, and the General looked at me.
- And you are our regular visitor, the assistant to the famous Madam Herta, Ritsuka Fujimaru, correct? I heard about the support you provided to my wounded Cloud Knights; you have my gratitude for that. - said Jing Yuan, thanking me for the rescue I performed at the port.
- General, this is an internal incident for the Luofu... - Yukong said, offering his opinion to the General.
- I completely agree with you, Helm Master Yukong, this is indeed an internal incident. My apologies, guests of the Astral Express. It's true that there's a Stellaron inside the Luofu, but I'm afraid I cannot accept your kind offer to help resolve this issue. This is a Xianzhou matter, and it's our responsibility to handle it. Of course, it would be inappropriate to let you return without having something to show for it. While I cannot accept your help with the Stellaron case, I have a favor to ask. Please, after you...- Jing Yuan said, gesturing for us to go to a corner to talk privately.
The favor General Jing Yuan wants to ask of us is quite simple. Jing Yuan wants us to find Kafka, who is apparently inside the ship, and capture her to prevent her from possibly rescuing her imprisoned colleague, whom we know is Blade.
By doing this, we will clear up any shadows of suspicion that we are working together with the Stellaron Hunters and help the Alliance obtain more of the information they want.
Meanwhile, Jing Yuan and the Knights of the Cloud will handle the Stellaron incident.
Knowing all this, we agreed to do this favor for the General. Before we could begin the search, the General said that we have authorization to explore Luofu, authorization to request the help of the Sky-Faring Commission, and we have full access to information about the Stellaron Hunters case.
With all this resolved, I decide to have a private conversation with Welt about everything that is happening.
- Hmm, I think we've only scratched the surface of this General Jing Yuan... - Welt comments with a thoughtful expression.
- Are you finding it strange that he decided to involve us in the investigation about the Stellaron Hunters when he doesn't want us involved in the Stellaron incident? - I say, guessing Welt's thoughts.
- Exactly! You guessed correctly, Ritsuka. It's really strange that he insisted we help capture Kafka when they should already have Blade in custody. Besides, he avoided mentioning Blade much. Knowing this, why does he want the help of foreigners instead of using Blade? - Welt says.
- We are the bait. He knows it was Kafka who brought us here and he wants to use us to lure Kafka. This also includes the suspicion that Blade escaped from prison or hasn't even been captured yet. - I say, answering Welt's question.
- I agree with what you said. Knowing this, perhaps it's time for us to get closer to the core of what's happening here. - Welt said.
- Well, you guys do that. I'll begin my search for the Beast that's here. - I said with a serious expression.
- Are you sure you can handle this alone? Not wanting to doubt your ability, but I'm sure that encountering the Beast won't be quiet. - Welt said, fearing a possible chaotic battle.
- I don't disagree with that suspicion, but don't worry, Welt. The moment I find the Beast, I'll drag it into my Reality Marble to avoid collateral damage. - I said, informing Welt of my plan.
- And what about BB? - Welt asked.
- She'll stay with you to serve as a way for us to communicate. If the situation gets serious, I'll inform you. - I said with a serious expression.
- Well, then I won't hold back any longer. Good luck out there, Ritsuka. And be careful not to cause too much trouble on your 'walk'. - Welt said, making me walk a little.
- Hahaha... Don't worry, old Welt. You can be sure that my walk won't be too... chaotic. - I said with a smile of pure innocence.
With everything decided, I'm the first person to leave Astrum Palace, and from there I begin my search for any signs of the Beast.
"Hmmmm..... This would be much easier if this place had mana in the area, but unfortunately that's not the case. I'd better summon some Shadow Servants to help me search."
To help with my search, I summon a Shadow Servant of the assassin class to help me find the Beast. The Servant I chose was Hassan of the Hundred Faces.
Immediately, multiple Hassan emerged from within my shadow and began to spread around Starskiff Haven.
- While they're searching, I'll do my own search. - I say this, beginning to explore the city I already know.
After a few minutes, my Hassan and I weren't having much success. I was going to ask BB for help, but just as I was about to speak to her, something strange began to happen around me.
"Hmm? What is this?"
Large red fish swam in the air around me, and with each passing second, more fish appeared, and I could feel something shifting in my vision.
As I walked, the reality around me began to alter, and instead of being in the public city of Xianzhou Luofu, I was now in a very futuristic, modern area.
- What the fuck? Wasn't I in Luofu? Since when did I end up in this place? - I said, very confused and with a strange feeling.
"And why do I feel like I've been here several times before? Because this place is very familiar."
The strangest and most bizarre thing is the immense comfort I feel being here, as if I were back in Chaldea, which is technically my second home.
While I was feeling a huge strange sensation in my heart, I heard a voice I didn't expect to hear.
Alter: Master! Regain your composure! You are inside an illusion. A very powerful illusion, I have to admit... You have to get out of there immediately!
Hearing the voice of my shadow alter ego, I'm very surprised to see that he's the one who started talking to me, since normally I'm always the one who initiates conversation.
Before I could ask my other "self" what was happening, I sensed a presence behind me and heard a voice that paralyzed me.
- Ah, Ritsuka-senpai. You came back for me. - I heard the excited voice of a young girl behind me.
After being paralyzed for a few seconds, I looked behind me and saw the face and appearance of the girl who seemed to know me.
She's a beautiful girl with very long white hair and blue eyes, but it's possible to notice a bright purple star in the middle of her eyes that honestly hypnotized me for a brief moment. She's not very tall compared to me, so I can see how big her "mountains" are.
Of course, they aren't as large compared to certain female servants I know, but they possess a certain "charm" that I can't describe in words.
After I turned around and stood in front of the unknown girl, and after I gave her a quick, accurate assessment of her appearance, the girl continued to speak to me with palpable joy.
- I was worried I'd have to wait a long time for your return. I'm relieved that didn't happen. By the way, Ritsuka-senpai, what are those clothes? Shouldn't you be wearing your Captain's uniform? Oh yeah, your hair is normal again! - the girl said, firing off several questions that I have no idea about, but for some reason are very familiar to me.
Alter: Master! Get away from that woman, now!!! She's too dangerous for you!
- Who are you? - I say, forcing those words out of my mouth.
"And why my head hurts when I look into your eyes?"
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To be continued...
Next chapter: A Forgotten Storm...
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New voice lines from Dahila and Black Swan.
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About Ritsuka (Dahlia):Ah~ How lucky that arrogant woman is to get the opportunity to dance with that handsome traveling knight. How I long to taste his flames and feel all the pain and anguish he keeps to himself. Ah~ How I want to submit to his presence and personally feel the power of the Spirit of Vengeance.
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Ritsuka's voice lines about Dahila and Black Swan
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About Black Swan:I don't trust Black Swan very much, no matter how pleasant our dance was. I don't trust people in a group who can't respect your privacy. There's a saying I learned at a certain Evernight that goes like this: People who hide behind masks of benevolence are the last people you should trust.
About Dahila:I honestly forgot she was alive after what happened with the Annihilation Gang. Dahila is the kind of selfish woman who always follows her heart's desires, which means she's only loyal to herself. *Sigh* Shuten Doiji and Koyanskaya would love her.
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Adding Ritsuka to the team
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Dahila and Ritsuka
Dahila: How wonderful it is that we're both working together, hehehe~ How about we dance before the flames burning away the storm of memories?
Ritsuka: *Sigh* And here I was thinking that Koyanskaya of Light was too annoying to deal with.
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Ritsuka, Dahila and Black Swan
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Black Swan: Ritsuka, I recommend you don't get too close to this woman; she's only seeking her own chaotic pleasure.
Dahila: Hahahaha! That's rich coming from you. Are you afraid I'll steal your dear dance partner? I thought you were already satisfied with the demonstration he gave tou.
Ritsuka: If you two don't behave, I'll personally put you both in a collar and force you to call me Master, or I'll spank both your butts so hard they'll leave marks for everyone to see. The choice is yours.
Black Swan:Oh...
Dahila:Yes, please!
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