Chapter 10 - Chapter 10

WARNING! WARNING! WARNING!

 The chapter contains the scenes of animal cruelty, graphic depictions of violence and suicide. If you are of a faint heart or have trouble reading something like that, I recommend you skip the part starting from "It realized. The jig is up". Treat animals well. if you find yourself in depression or have suicidal thougths - please, seek out professional help.

*****

It took them an entire night to get to the stronghold. They stayed silent for the most part, and it made Roland realize that he had grown unaccustomed to silence. He imagined that's how most of his coworkers from different offices must have felt when they had a mission. Constant silence, no banter, no jokes. Only running and the howling of a passing wind. He used to stay mostly silent himself, but then Angelica happened, then the Library… 

And now he couldn't help but notice how the continued quiet appeared unpleasant to him. 

Not that he wanted to speak to the Abnormality that much.(or - he still kept his mouth shut). Maybe he really became the sociable kind of person his wife tried to turn (read train) him to become? 

But that was… largely unimportant. His mind was mostly occupied with not getting caught. And not bleeding out. Being deep into the enemy territory, they had to move carefully and stealthily, lest they wanted to get swarmed again. 

The problem was - Red Hood pretty much wanted to. He had to dissuade her time and time again from jumping into the Celts' camps to massacre them. 

And it's not that he minded, but they really had places to be. 

It was the dead of the night when they'd arrived at the castle. Ritsuka was asleep, but before hitting the sack, she mentioned that Robin would be there to greet them. 

*THUNK-THUNK-THUNK* 

And if the three arrows hitting the ground near their feet was any indication, they were up for a warm welcome. 

The Red Hood unleashed her dagger and was about to draw one of her pistols, probably thinking this was some kind of ambush. 

He put up his arm in the stopping gesture, while motioning to the castle wall: 

-Hey, cut this out will you?! This isn't the kind of welcome I was hoping for!-he shouted, garnering attention of the Hooded vigilante. 

-Oh, it's just you Roland, my bad,-replied the bowman. 

Roland quickly eyed the woman beside him, noting the tension leaving her somewhat. 

-You sure you don't need to have your eyes checked? Aren't you supposed to be an Archer?- Roland voiced his irritation to the man on the wall. 

-Well, we all make mistakes, don't we? Come on in,-voice apologetic, Archer ordered for the gates to be opened, inviting the duo of mercenaries in. 

The next thirty minutes or so weren't all that interesting. Robin led them through the town, eventually reaching the main castle, where Archer led Red Hood to her room (the Hood's room was sandwiched between Roland's and this Scatach lady), as well as a local canteen. Pointing out that they were going to have a meeting early in the morning in Edison's "Oval office", which he too showed to them. 

(A.N: The geography of the stronghold isn't really clear. It has both a castle and a town nearby (as we might glimpse from Ritsuka's stroll), but it's hard to say if the latter is within the former. So, I'll just go with the version that there is an outer layer and an inner layer.) 

Throughout their little trip, fixer noticed how the mercenary scanned her surroundings with a critical eye, probably drawing up escape routes. He knew, because when he had to jail break his Master, he did pretty much the same thing. 

Nevertheless, as the night was growing older, the three of them went their separate ways. Promising the Scarlet Hooded merc that they'll have her bandages delivered come morning, Roland wanted to excuse himself, but…

-Mister Roland,-the gentle, if somewhat indifferent voice caught him and Hood as they went to their rooms.

Fixer turned around, Abnormality did as well, but disregarded the nurse, heading to her room, leaving Roland behind. 

And the fixer could only scratch the back of his head. 

-Miss Nightingale… what's up?-he asked, a bit miffed under her intense gaze, as she was sizing him up. And he decidedly couldn't tell what she thought. Her expression was stuck somewhere between a "dead fish" and a "cold noble" type. 

Made him feel a bit out of his element, but then again, doesn't hold a candle to Angela on her bad days. 

-Follow me into the medical wing,-she said matter-of-factly, already turning around to leave. 

Having nothing better to do, he threw a parting glance Hood's way and followed the nurse. 

*****

The odor of spirit and medicaments felt like a long lost brother to Roland. 

The stacks of bandages in a separate drawer, a heap of papers on the table, and a row of several beds aligned next to the wall, with no one currently present. 

To a person with his track record of getting into trouble, it felt like home here.

-Strip,-was the first thing Roland heard when they entered the medical room. 

-Kha-ha-hum,-he choked on his saliva, eyeing the nurse wearily behind his mask. 

Staring each other in the eye (even with his sight obscured), neither of them hurried to solve the misunderstanding. Instead, Nightingale started to prepare the equipment from dipping bandages in different liquids(Roland couldn't for the love of him name any of those) and cutting them into smaller parts. 

Well, it only took him that long to realize what this was all about. He slapped the back of his neck to wake up a bit. To be fair, he had a very long day. 

He started to take off his clothes, starting with a jacket, then untying his tie, folding the shirt neatly on the drawer. 

Finally exposing the bloodied skin, full of old scars, before he got all of his enchanting treatments. Even as Angela was turning him into light he asked to leave them. 

Several long lines stretching through his stomach. A decently sized scar under the armpit. Numerous small to medium sized ones on his back. 

Not to mention many little ones on his legs. 

Those were painful lessons and they better stay as reminders. Even though he wasn't the kind of guy to romanticize things like these. He tried really hard to ignore the part of him that found them badass. Nope, it did not exist. 

His reminiscing was ignored by the nurse, as she started to apply different remedies and ointments. An exercise in futility, considering he was a servant but hey, when did it hurt to be healed a bit faster? Besides, Nightingale wouldn't take "no" for an answer. Ro maybe her legend as heroic spirit made this more effective? He didn't know.

The silence descended like a shroud, making things a bit awkward. At least for Roland, Nightingale didn't seem to care in the slightest. 

Fixer decided to break the ice. Taking his mask off as well. He didn't even notice it being there. …Guess old habits die hard. But it felt like the atmosphere became a bit less stifling. 

-So, what made you become a nurse?

She stopped for a fraction of a second. 

-There was no "made". It was a choice. People were suffering and I wanted nothing more than to see them healthy and happy once again. To see the child nursed back to health, to prevent a mother from making their dear boy bury them. For a soldier to come back to his family. For a world, to be a slightly better place. 

It was said with so little emotion but with such underlying conviction… 

A funny thought that occurred to him tugged on his lips. With her level of indifference and die hard dedication… as she is now, Nightingale could've become a sort of saint for the backstreets. Think about it, no sane person would be willing to help a rat out, better yet have enough strength to not be considered an easy picking… but not Nightingale. She was both insane and strong. The kind of combination that took you places in the City, Roland had to admit. His smile grew a fraction wider, but that didn't last. 

-Ouch-ouch-ouch,-the nurse tightened the bandage around his shoulder too tight and he hissed in pain,-A bit gentler, please.

He then noticed her looking at the scar right under his left armpit, on his ribs. 

-And you, Mister Roland. 

-Hm?

-What made you choose a profession that could leave so many scars?

 Something in that tone made him think that she wasn't just talking about the bodily ones…

-Necessity,-he replied curtly, shrugging slightly. 

-I see. 

Her gaze momentarily peered deep into his eyes, piercing his very being. He took it in stride, the black pools mirroring the gesture. 

But the slight twitch in the shoulders wouldn't trick anyone. He felt exposed. 

-It's a tough world out there,-Roland replied noncommittally.

-And was there any other choice you could have made?-she wondered, dipping a piece of cloth into the water to clean a part of his back that got a little too bloody. 

-As in the choice of profession? I asked myself that question a lot, but each time I always come back to the obvious - there really wasn't. I was good at it, had some aspirations about it, and really, that was a lot better than being a simple rat.

-Hmmm,-she hummed, acknowledging but not agreeing or opposing. 

She put some more ointment on the wound, wrapped it around his ribs and tied it.

-Everything is in order. You may leave now… however, Mister Roland,-she paused him in his tracks as their eyes crossed once more,-do you truly think that there was no other choice?

Roland just shrugged, a small smile tugging at his lips.

-Who knows? If you ask me, there is always more than one way forward, I kinda learned it the hard way. But if If I were sent back in time, I wouldn't be changing that, at least.

-Why so?-she arched her brow. 

-I wouldn't have met my wife that way,-he answered like that was the most obvious thing in existence. 

-And would you have changed something that you truly regret?-Nurse let the conversation flow in a different direction. 

-Er, well, we are talking about impossibilities here… but yeah,-his voice felt heavier,-It's impossible though, and moreover…I learned to live with things now, somewhat,-he tapped a simple rhythm with his foot, eyes looking someplace else. 

But he didn't lie when he said that.

-Admirable,-she simply stated, not calling him out or anything. 

Then stood up and took a seat in front of the desk, looking over the papers. 

…That was one anticlimactic end to a conversation. 

He stood there and observed her in the quiet of the room. Then pulled on his shirt, jacket hanging on his bent arm. Seeing how there was nothing she wanted to say, he excused himself.

-Good night, Mister Roland,-she wished him good night, not lifting her eyes from the paperwork. 

He turn his head slightly, giving her a sideways glance, before saying his own good night. 

-Good night, Nightingale. 

*****

Roland let out a long yawn as he raised from the bed. The window behind invited the light in, filling the room with sunlight. The room itself was nothing grand, decently sized, well-furnished, made in blue and red colors. 

He stood up, stretching his limbs, working out the kinks. The pain of his previous wounds was just a ghostly echo now. A good sleep helped, even though he really didn't need it now. It was actually weird how well he could fit into the role of a Servant. Barring being unable to take a spirit form (which he just didn't have an opportunity to explain) - he fitted perfectly with the system. Which made it suspicious in his eyes, but he won't be looking the gift horse in the mouth. It worked, it served his goals - everything else hardly matters. 

But it was about time he got ready for the day. He took the gloves from his inner pocket, put them on, hung his trusted Durandal on his side and as a finishing touch, put on his mask. 

Just as he finished, his senses picked up someone approaching his door. 

-*KNOCK-KNOCK*, Roland you up?- the was one he hadn't heard in person for a while. 

-Up and about, Ritsuka. 

-Good! Can you come out and help me out?-he could hear a slight strain to her voice. 

He arched a brow, but complied, opening the door. Just to be saddled with a stack of medkits. 

-Wooo! Thanks!Those things are heavy! Now, let's go and meet our new ally!-she said, her voice full of enthusiasm and relief having dumped her problems on him. 

-Sure,-his head peeked out of the medkids, struggling to keep the pile balanced.

-Just be sure not to mention her past, her nemesis, her bandages and her face,-he recounted the general information of what NOT to do when meeting the Little Red Riding Hooded Mercenary (courtesy of everyone previously working in Lobotomy Corp),-it can strike a nerve and you really don't want that. 

-Got it!-she chirped and they did some ten steps down the corridor, stopping in front of another door. 

It's then that a bad feeling squirmed in his gut. 

-Hey, maybe I should…

Too late though. 

-*KNOCK-KNOCK*Good morning, Miss! I've come to welcome you to our little merry world-saving band!

Did this girl seriously need to say it like that?!

Thankfully, she didn't do anything else and just patiently waited for the merc to open the door. 

As it silently opened, Roland saw the glistening of metal and all kinds of alarm bells went off in his mind. He pulled Ritsuka by the collar, struggling to balance the pile of medkits. His timing couldn't have been better - sparing Ritsuka the cold breath of a barrel.

The yellow eye scanned the Master from head to toe, noting anything potentially dangerous, then looked around, peeked out of the door, surveyed the surroundings and only then opened the way enough for the two of them to enter. 

Roland wasn't sure if she would even allow them in. Red Hood did him one better, she just turned around and walked inside, not saying a word. 

Ritsuka was put off by both the gun that had just been pointed at her and the lack of any social cue whatsoever. 

-Em, sorry for intrusion?-she hesitantly said, sweeping the cold sweat from her forehead and beckoning Roland to follow her in.

What met them was… a very odd sight. 

The room, despite being just as big as Roland's, seemed small. Infinitely smaller than it had any right to be. The light struggled to get in through the shut curtains, and the only source of light was a small desk lamp, lighting up the table on which the gun parts were neatly arranged with the kind of practiced order. 

What was not neat was the room itself. 

The drawers were pulled out and sprawled on the floor, the wardrobe was wide open, the spare sheets flung into a pile next to it. It appeared that everything that wasn't Red Hood's was just thrown into little heaps of things, making the room a spectacular mess. 

What seemed even more ridiculous was the bed. In contrast to the rest of the room, it was impeccably made. Ritsuka was left to wonder if she actually never slept in it or if she did but then returned it to the way it was before. 

The observation didn't escape the merc's eye, but she didn't care. Her one eye instead attracted to the pile of medkits full of bandages brought by Roland. 

-You can put them in the pile there,-the merc pointed at the leftmost corner of the room, near the wardrobe, and following a quick exchange of glances with the Master, the Fixer did just that. 

Ritsuka, though, decided it was time to talk for a bit. 

-So, I don't know if Roland told you about me, but my name is Ritsuka Fujimaru, I'm in charge of making sure people don't kill themselves here. I hope we get along,-it took all of her self-control to regain her bearing as fast as she did. She then extended her hand at the merc who was half turned to her, sitting in front of the table. 

Red Hood looked at it, looked at her, but then just turned around. 

-Most just call me Red Hood,-was all she said, turning around and oiling the parts of her pistol, then carefully cleaning it with a brush. 

Ritsuka wasn't disheartened (put off, maybe) but just acted as if it didn't happen. She couldn't talk about the past, she could talk about the Wolf, she couldn't talk about her appearance. That's about half of the things that could be talked about normally crossed out. 

In her silent musing (which were promptly igonred), her eyes caught onto the white sheet hanging over what was supposed to be a full body mirror. She knew, because her own room had one. At closer inspection, it wasn't just one sheet, it was at least three… and there was something glistering just beneath it. 

A feeling tugged at her gut, telling her to not to raise this topic. And Ritsuka knew knew better than to ignore it. She still had to ask something. 

-How do you like it here? Slept well?-she decided to go into some very general questions. 

-Stifling,-Merc replied with indifference,-Slept like shit,-and she sounded so done with it, it was hard not to wince. 

-I see,-the wry half-smile was really hard to hold on her face,-And do you need anything else? 

-No. 

-Ooookay, don't hesitate to ask, if you ever need anything, though,-she answered, hoping that the woman would throw her a bone here so maybe they could build some…

-No.

The conversation died a painful and miserable death just like that and Roland couldn't help a mental sigh. Talking normally wouldn't work here, you needed to catch certain clues to actually develop this conversation anywhere. A kind of insight, if you will. Talking about the wolf would have worked, but it's hit or miss most of the time, if his assistants are to be believed.

Either she sprays your brains all over the walls or she has a monologue on how much she hates it. 

But this was going nowhere fast and he didn't need this kind of headache early in the morning. 

-We've fulfilled our part of the deal. Hope you'll hold up your part of the bargain,-he switched the topic, cutting the awkwardness. 

-I'll say this - I am no amateur, you get what you've signed up for even if it kills me,-the Hood retorted, her eye quickly sliding over Roland's frame. 

-Just making sure. Anyway, we'll be on our way. 

Ritsuka didn't oppose being dragged out of the room.

As the door closed behind the duo, the Mercenary raised her head from her workbench and threw the sheets off the mirror. It was, however, broken into many pieces. 

This morning, when she turned on the light without thinking and stared into the refraction… 

Well, let's say it was fortunate it was only the mirror that got "hurt". 

Standing a good meter away, the dim light could hardly illuminate even the smallest part of her face. 

Good. She liked it that way. 

With unfounded urgency, the sheets were covering the mirror once again. 

She could not stare at her own reflection, in the end. 

Instead, she started to take off the bandages on her arms and legs, changing them for new ones. 

The Red Hood was waiting patiently once again, grinding her axe, preparing. 

New hunt was upon her. 

*****

They headed towards the castle's canteen, in search of something to bite and raise Ritsuka's spirit. 

-Haaa, you know, when you told me about these "abnormalities" I knew for a fact it was going to be a huge hassle,-Master hid her face in the palms, trying to contain the scream of embarrassment. 

She totally blew this one. Bye-bye, good first impressions. 

Roland just shook his head. 

-I mentioned that they can be volatile in their character, Red Hood is just one example. She can be bitchy like that. To be fair, starting with the small talk wasn't the brightest idea…

-I know, I know! I figured it out just as the words left my mouth, haaaa,-she sighed.

-Hey, don't beat yourself up. All you really need to do is to sick her on the wolf and enjoy the show. Her opinion of you is secondary,-Roland said, petting Master's shoulder in reassurance. 

Ritsuka still looked unsure. 

-Look, she's a pro. To her, it doesn't matter who the employer is. It's similar to what I'm used to, really. You have a contract - you fulfill it. You get the ahns. To her it's much the same with the added benefit of killing the one thing she hates the most. 

-I get it, it's just… I guess I'm used to getting to know people I'm working with?

Roland could understand where she was coming from. With the fate of the world hanging on a thread, it paid to know your allies. 

-She isn't the type to get all buddy-buddy though. So don't waste your time. 

-Yeah, maybe you are right… 

Roland gave her a sideway glance, noting the sullen look and a slight wince. 

He nudged her.

-C'mon, let's go and eat something, the day is gonna be a long one. 

-Sure,-she replies, somewhat lost and they spend the rest of the way in silence, not even the shuffling of their shoes heard. 

When they arrived, a small-wooden bot served them porridge and poured a glass of water. Ritsuka says her "thanks" to the retreating robot, then bites into her food. 

-Well, it's… average,-she declared solemnly.

-I'd be surprised if it wasn't. Edison would make it to the top of some Wing in the City with his efficiency,-Roland noted, voice tinted with a bit of respect. Just a bit though. People who made it to the top can't be good for you. You run a risk to have them off you at some point. 

-Although denying people the happiness of normal food is a bit…-Ritsuka did a so-so motion.

-Yeah, I get that… What I wouldn't give for a HamHam PangPang right now,-voice dreamy, Roland stared into the distance. 

-It's that good? 

-You wouldn't believe how good it was. If I didn't know better, I would have thought they had a singularity involved in the creation of everything.

-If you say so…

The conversion died as Ritsuka focused on her porridge, swallowing down the white looking something. 

 This just wasn't her morning, it seemed. 

-Hey, Roland, what you said about the abnormalities the other day, was it all…-the girl started, hesitant. 

-True? Yeah. All of it, as far as I know. 

A pause. 

-I mean, it's not that hard to believe that someone decided to throw a bucket into a collective unconscious of humanity - Magi exist, after all, but still. Fairy tales made real? Okay, maybe. Unkillable fairy tales? That sounds like trouble.

-I know, right? If only that was the only problem with L. Corp…-he sighed, wistfully. 

-Wait, they screwed up more than that? 

-Oh, I didn't cover that because we were pressed for time. I'll tell you more later. Or you'll see it through the link,-there was a slight shift in his tone that she almost missed. 

 -Sure,-her eyes are drawn to the porridge,-You know what, I think it's about time the meeting started, let's go,-she left the food there, not even bothering to eat the rest of it. 

-The first thing I do after this singularity is force Emiya into the kitchen,-she muttered under her breath. 

-I think that he is a slave to it as is, though?-Roland heard it still, making the girl blush a tiny bit. 

-Doesn't change the fact that I desire a feast in my illustrious name!

Roland gave a lopsided grin and just shrugged. Thinking about good food seemed to have lifted Master's mood. 

They arrived at the "oval office" before long, swinging the doors open. Some were already at their seats (Edison and Blavatsky, namely), Robin leaned onto the wall, Scatach was nowhere to be seen, Mash was discussing something with Arturia, who appeared pleased with the company and then there was a visage of Liz, peeking from behind the curtains of the balcony. She was practicing her singing, but no sound slipped into the room. Nightingale was sitting still as a statue at the table and Rama was yet to arrive.

-Ah, the vice-presi-king, Roland. I believe we aren't personally acquainted,-the giant lion head nodded at them, which was quite amusing, to be frank,-I see you have not fetched the mercenary. Little trouble, we'll invite her when her part of the plan comes up, now let us wait a bit more and commence this meeting. 

He said it just in time for Rama and Scatach to arrive.

And so the madness started. Roland stayed away from all the planning, his input few and far between. He had little experience when it came to military tactics and strategy of this scale, so most of it just went into one ear and left through the other. 

He became a bit more active when it came to the distribution of roles. It was decided that Robin, Arturia, Arash, Elizabeth, Blavatsky and Edison would all be in charge of an offensive, while Ritsuka, Mash, Roland, Rama,Karna and Nightingale would spearhead their way into the enemy territory. Scatach took it upon herself to deal with her unruly student, though something told Roland it won't go exactly as planned. 

It all then came to the giant wolf in the room. 

As every set of eyes settled on Ritsuka, she looked at Roland, and then everyone stared at him. 

He arched his brows behind the mask, somewhere between amused and taken aback by how this turned out. 

But this worked out pretty well for him. 

-Okay, so first of all, is there any clarification that you guys need on Abnormalities? 

Blavatsky raised her hand. 

-No, I don't know how it works in detail, I never asked. I can't give you an answer,-tone flat, he replied, predicting the question.

Caster lowered her hand. 

Roland noticed how Scatach was very interested in the topic, but for whatever reason refrained from asking. Likewise Nightingale and Rama were curious too (Nightingale more so for medical reasons, he guessed), but said nothing. 

-Alright, I'll clarify some things that I neglected last time. Don't look at me like that, I wanted to get things done quickly. 

He stepped up closer to the table. 

-As you might know from the last time, Abnormalities are facets of humanity. They are stories that sit in human mind. Be it religion, or a nighttime story. Most have some defining trait or an idée fixe. Like, religion, for example. Or guilt. Or loneliness. The person I brought - Little Red Riding Hooded Mercenary - has a bone to pick with the wolf and a lot of anger issues. I don't know a lot about her past, but there are some things you shouldn't do, unless you want to have new holes made in your body. 

He delivered everything calmly, his eyes scanning the room for reactions. Artoria - stoic, Robin - skeptical, NIghtingale - scowling a bit, Rama - contemplating. Scatach… - was that a bloodthirsty grin? He hoped not. Liz was just a bit confused. Ritsuka knew a bit more, so she was mostly calm. He had to reveal some things to her this morning. It wouldn't do if she got herself killed like that. 

-Okay, so, what you absolutely mustn't do is try to look under her hood or at her exposed skin. 

-Why's that? Is she shy?-asked Liz innocently. 

-She is scarred all over. And I mean it literally, at this point her entire body might be scar tissue. 

Okay, NOW Nightingale was scowling. Everyone else wasn't any better, Liz was equal parts revolted and pitting. 

An emotion went through his link to Risuka, as they crossed gazes, then locking on Nightingale. They both knew she was going to stir trouble here, because it was in her nature to care. 

Ritsuka, unfortunately, couldn't come up with a way on how to avert this disaster. Guess they'll have to deal with that as they go. 

-She is a formidable warrior then, I take it?-prompted Edison. 

-Yes, and that leads to the next thing - she is a pro. I don't know how mercs live in your day and age but she holds herself to a very high standard when it comes to taking jobs. 

-So her allegiances are assured?-the king asked further. 

-Yes, she isn't the one to switch sides. But! There is one thing that can make her see red… 

-The Wolf,-Karna stated. 

-Right on the money. Should she see it, she'll fall into a frenzy, trying to get the bastard. The good news - the Wolf loves to return the favor. The bad news - she will leave all together in her pursuit. And stopping her is a terrible idea. 

-And what about mentioning the beast to her?-asked Artoria. 

-Illadvised, may make her aggressive. But makes for a good conversation starter,-he noted, pensive,-Her nemesis is probably the only thing she can talk about comfortably. 

It was at that moment that Scatach's well hidden annoyance reared its head. 

-Now, how about we stop skirting around the issue of them being immortal,-she put her hands on the table. 

-Yeah, that…-Ritsuka scratched her cheek. 

-We have a theory that when the singularity is resolved - so will the abnormalities,-voiced Romani his and Da Vinci's thoughts.

-Alternatively,-Da Vinci too cut into the conversation,-with its nature being alien to the world, Gaia might erase them when they are sufficiently weakened. 

Edison hummed, in thought.

-The idea has merit. I assume we let the mercenary take the charge against the monster, while the other team sorts out the King?

-That's about right. Though we can't be completely sure if this would solve the issue,-mused Da Vinci further, her forecast pessimistic.

-Well if it comes to it, I can probably drag it into my reality marble. We have a way to contain it there indefinitely,-offered Roland, seeing how tense everyone was. 

-Thanks for mentioning that, by the way. Care to explain how that works and what it can do?-said Ritsuka, her tone even, though the subtle hints of bitterness loud enough to hear. 

Well, here comes the questions… how to respond? And how much to reveal?

-It's an anti-team noble phantasm. In simple terms, I can pull along with me five people, who I then need to eliminate. I can take some allies along but it's… inefficient to fight along with them. They won't get half of the benefits and all the detriments. Also, it can be used as a living space of sorts. It doesn't use that much mana that way,-explained fixer, catching curious glances. 

The overall vagueness didn't escape everyone's notice. 

-And it can contain the Wolf?-asked Mash innocently.

-Yeah. 

-How?-that was Ritsuka. 

-By turning it into a book. 

A pause. 

-Into what again?-asked a confused Romani what was on everyone's mind.

-Well, my reality marble is a Library. And everyone who dies there is turned into a book…

Incredulous looks were shared around the room.

-I don't get it! How does that work?!-whined Liz, shooting an annoyed gaze his way. 

-Hell if I know. It just works,-Roland just shrugged. And he wasn't even lying. Angela never clued him in on how that process went. 

-You must have lived a very bizarre life if this became an integral part of your legend,-Rama smiled wryly. 

-Well, the story behind it is long, so maybe I'll explain that next time,-Roland shrugged again, his body betraying none of his nerves. 

While all of that was happening, Ritsuka's mind came back to three nights ago when he shared the story from his work…Who visited their Library, after being widowed. Probably in that very same library. And probably for her husband's book… Wow, a very special kind of badass indeed, it's…

She halted her thoughts there. Roland didn't seem like a psychopathic murderer to her. Not now at least. The many blanks in his story made her nervous, but she resolved to ask him about everything as soon as she could. Maybe even today. Regardless, she won't judge him. She promised, after all. 

While the many inquisitive eyes stopped on Roland, Karna, the ever understanding and charitable guy, decided to defuse the situation. 

-If Roland doesn't wish to share his past, then it's his right to do so. As far as we all know, he didn't do anything to warrant an adverse reaction. 

-I agree,-Rama nodded, the suppurative glint in his eye. He didn't spend years as a king without the needed insight to spot a rotten apple in their midsts. 

Ritsuka nodded, signaling to Arash to wrap this up. He was an ultimate pacifier like that and acted as a voice of reason at times. 

-Anyway, we'll get our answers later. As of right now, how about we learn more about the immortal wolf from the lady who has been in the business of hunting it for.. how many years?-Archer looked at Roland. 

-Really depends on how you look at it. Ten thousand years at the minimum? Times immemorial at maximum?-Roland really didn't know what to say here, so he just threw some random numbers. The Well was an enigma to him. And he, frankly, didn't care enough to find out how time worked there. 

-*Whistle* Impressive resume, if I've ever heard one…-commented Robin. 

-It would be prudent, then, to figure out more about the enemy,-suggested Artoria. 

Ritsuka signaled Roland and he left to fetch the Red Hood. 

*****

-*Knock-knock* Hey, Hood, it's Roland. We need you at the strategy meeting. It's regarding your specialty. 

He only really needed to speak those words for the merc to appear in her crimson glory. 

-Lead the way,-she was curt and to the point, as always. Roland saw no point in dallying, the merc following him as a silent shadow. 

When they entered the room, the somewhat tense but comfortable atmosphere shifted slightly, appraising the new arrival. Some with weariness, like Robin, Mash and Edison, some with fervor of a warrior, like Scatach. Arturia's was hard to discern, hers was the gaze of a king - impassive. Let's not talk about Edison, he had a lion's head and reading that was beyond Roland's abilities. 

Hood, however, didn't come here for this silent appraisal. 

-We're gonna get to it or are you going to stare at me like that? 

The room broke out of the trance, shuffling of clothes and minute chatter spreading. 

-Khm-khm, yes. Miss Hood, we've come to know that you are an expert when it comes to the wolf. Could you enlighten us?-Edison took the charge, and even though it was clear the merc didn't appreciate the flowery language. 

Her eyes slid over Ritsuka and Roland, before she closed her eye, taking in more air. 

-So you are the bunch of morons I will have to work with,-her eyes jumped from one person in the room to the other, noting their strengths, weaknesses, weapons,-Can't say it's a pleasure, but I hope you won't get in the way. If you do - I'll bail, just saying. 

She started off with a greeting. 

Before anyone tried to put their word in, she continued, voice commanding silence: 

-The Wolf, or the bastard, as I call him, has been living for a very long time but despite that he is just a beast,-she made a small pause, putting her weapons on the table,-He has very keen senses, so don't hope to ambush it unless you smell just like everything around. It can smell its prey coming from miles away. When fighting against multiple enemies, it can put its lungs to use. His howl is rather dangerous, disorients people easily, I'd know. 

She muttered the last part, looking at her left hand. 

-His primary weapons are claws and teeth, as you'd probably expect, but the thing that allows it to utilize it - is his speed. Try to have someone watch you back. Fighting it alone, without matching speed is a suicide,-the Hood looked at Roland, a spark of ridicule for all to see. 

Roland suppressed the urge to groan. 

-Adding to that - the bastard is durable. He can keep at it for hours, maybe days, so decisive action is needed if you want to kill it before it kills you. 

-So hit it fast, hit it hard,-summarized Robin. 

-Basically, hoodie guy. 

-A who…?!

The merc was deaf to the Archer's exclamation. 

 -It tends to use its forepaws more, but I wouldn't bet on it not trying to bash your skull in with the other pair. Those hit like a bitch…-her voice grew a degree more heated, one of the arms patting her stomach,-Also, be sure to not get lunged. He likes to grab people's clothes, so…-she looked at Liz in her dress, the message clear for everyone. 

-Hmf, ignorant that monster is!

Hood exchanged glances with Roland again, in silent askense if these really were the people she was going to be working with. 

Despite the mask, she knew that Fixer was wearing a vengeful smirk. 

The lecture (and it could only really be called that) continued for another forty minutes with most of the audience listening, but growing more bored with each minute. 

Red Hood was a good, passionate teacher. The subject, though, was not the most interesting one. Especially not to people who fought against tyranny, slayed dragons, and leveled armies. 

So Edison took charge again. 

-*CLAP-CLAP*Thank you for your knowledge, but I think it's time we exercised a bit. After all - real combat would be the best teacher,-with that, he flicked the switch and the area around them transformed into plains. 

-A simulator?-asked Mash, wide-eyed. 

-Indeed. I think, after a little exercise we will be more ready to write down the finer details of the plan. 

-Yeah, and that…-Roland pointed in the direction of the enormous pack of wolves,-is supposed to be our exercise? 

-Exactly. 

-I'll pass,-Hood retreated instantly, either not seeing any reason or not wanting to participate. 

-Suit yourself,-Edison raised no complaint,-Now, Master, would you care to demonstrate how to do this? 

Ritsuka was all too happy to comply. 

-With pleasure! We'll be fighting in the groups of…-she saw Scatach already in the enemy midsts, NIghtingale, watching the mercenary's back unmoving and unblinking,-Groups of… one, two, three…. Err, you know what, no groups. Archers and Casters cover for the mainline fighters, now go-go-go!

*****

As Red Hood watched the circus unfold, she couldn't help a sigh. 

This was one hell of a shitshow she got herself dragged into. Maybe she should have asked what they were really after. But then again, the wolf seems to be their common enemy. Not their final one, probably, but she really couldn't care less. They'll pave her a road to her goal, maybe even HELP her(that sounded rather humorous, help and her in one sentence) deal with it. 

The thoughts of what would come after never really crossed her mind. Why would they? The bastard always found ways to come back. One way or another. 

So, obviously, she'll go and kill it again. 

 -And what do you want?-gazing from under the shade of the nearby tree, Mercenary asked a figure at the periphery of her vision. In her mind, the many characteristics she made note of ran. Her height, preferred weapon, strength. Her character was tricky, she didn't utter a single word while she was giving her speech. Instead she stared at her for the whole duration. 

That was the gaze of a professional. Not her kind of professional. The polar opposite. She was the one to stitch people together after they had a brawl. 

Hood could respect such a profession, despite wanting nothing to do with them - they had a very bad tendency to want to look under the bandages, at her scars. 

There were also all these emotions going through her eyes. She couldn't name them - not anymore - but they irked her. Itching Hood to draw her weapons, to draw their blood, to roar in ang…

The sight of the cold, emotionless crimson eyes made her thoughts come to an abrupt halt. 

The intense yellow crossed with the indifferent red. 

Not a word was uttered. Their instincts working overtime, trying to figure out one another without actually saying anything. 

Until Nightingale stated, voice even:

-You are of ill mind. 

All thoughts evaporated from Hood's mind. 

-Am not,-she retorted almost in reflex. 

-And you deny it. Yet you should realize that what you do is madness.

This… bitch. 

-What the fuck are you talking about?!-she raised her voice, unintentionally, an eye narrowing to the size of a pinprick. 

Oblivious to what exactly ticked her off in that sentence.

Her first reaction was to defend herself. Despite there being no reason to .

-With the wolf there is no other way, could never be!-she voiced, subconsciously noting… nothing. Nightingale stood absolutely still. Her instincts screamed that something was off, but there wasn't!

-And was there any other way for yourself?-the nurse only slightly tilted her head. 

-HA! You don't get it do you?-her tone eased into sarcastic, as she stopped leaning onto the tree and made a step closer, almost hanging above the nurse. She felt like this was the part where she could get one over this bitch. 

-I only needed revenge, and I still do. Nothing else matters. As long as the bastard is somewhere out there still, I won't be able to sleep at night. 

There. This should do it. 

Instead, Nightingale just shook her head. 

-You never saw another way for yourself. And you refuse to see it,-subtly, Nightingale's eyes strayed to Roland, who was observing them from a bit away. 

The man was right in his assessment. There was no changing this one. 

The Hood was now confused. To her, it could never be any other way. 

-Have you tried? To change something? Anything?-in the silence that settled, the words felt like the screeching of a violin in the quietest of rooms. 

Deafening. 

-I…-Red Hood stuttered, for just a second, a fraction of a thought entered her mind. A glimpse of the end that could never be. Or a life that never was. 

It disappeared just as quickly, replaced by condensed and unfiltered fury, as her scars began to heat up, itch, the terrible urge to scratch, to wail, to dig her fingers into them to make them stop bleeding… 

-I see,-Nightingale's voice, as even as always, carried nothing. But it being void of emotions, would have told most what she actually felt.

Not Red Hood, though. 

The Nurse turned on her heel, and approached the group currently fighting the simulated beasts. 

Only leaving a few parting words, only for the merc to hear. 

-The patient does not wish to be saved. Therefore, I will not help.

Left in this strange sense of unease, Hood lost all of her steam, suddenly finding herself lost. 

Scatach, who was not far away from them, and eyed the duo with an expectant glint, clicked her tongue. She was hoping for something more exciting to happen. 

The simulation soon concluded, and Red Hood excused herself as soon as she was able. No one saw her again that day. 

*****

The meeting continued until the early hours of the evening, however, Ritsuka Fujimaru had no time for rest. 

Because she needed answers, not sleep. 

Despite what she promised herself not to do (interrogate Roland, namely), the curiosity and the sheer amount of unknown from her servant was reaching the critical point, at which trusting him became… hard. 

And she wanted to trust him. Like she wanted to trust all her other servants. All her other friends and companions. 

A quick request to Arash and she's already heading to the southern wall. What Roland could be doing there was anyone's guess. Hers was that he just wanted some peace and quiet. She couldn't blame him, with how things were going, she wanted some of that as well. 

An arduous walk through the entire castle later, she opened the door to the castle wall. 

His mask turned in her direction slightly. 

-Ritsuka? What gives? 

-Well, *huff*I wanted to talk for a bit.

-Hmmm,-he stretched the sound in light amusement at her expense. 

-Imagine going from one end of the castle to another, can't be me,-she relented, sarcasm dripping. 

-Ha, couldn't you just call me?-he asked a very… good question. 

And judging by how his shoulders were twitching, her thoughts must have reflected on her face. 

-Well, that was certainly smooth of you, pha-ha-khm,-he stifled a laugh, only getting an irritated growl in return,-Anyway, what did you want to talk about? 

-Na-hah, you take that off and then we'll talk,-she said in that smug-demanding tone, taking some ground back. 

He hesitated, for just a fraction of a second, but complied, the face now exposed to the cool air. 

-So, what would it be?-now a pinch or two more quiet, he asked, eyes not leaving the far horizon. 

And that was a very good question. Where to start? 

You didn't tell me about a very useful skill, why? Who are you really? What have you gone through?

Can I trust you? 

Maybe tackling this in a more roundabout way will do it? 

-You've told me about this L. Corp. Can you expand a bit on what they did? And how they brought about Abnos?-she asked, shortening the bothersome term. 

His foot tapped an even rhythm, before he responded. 

-...Sure. 

A small sigh of relief escaped her. 

-L. Corp, or as it was more formally known - Lobotomy Corporation, was the energy producer of the City. Kinda what grails do for Chaldea.

-With some strings attached? 

-Right in one. They took the nest of the previous L Corp, which you saw in my dream, and to say that everyone was happy with the fumes free energy would be underselling it. After the Smoke War, many welcomed the new Wing with open arms. 

Ritsuka was all ears, bundling into her uniform a bit more, trying to resist the rising coolness of the wind. 

Roland noticed it and once again, draped the girl in his jacket, earning a curt thanks in return. 

-After that, everything settled down for a bit. New wing was working as expected, many branches opened, supplying the City with cheaper and more ECO friendly energy,-he snorted at that one, eco friendly and city was never meant to be used in the same sentence. 

-So… where the fairytales and eldritch monstrosities come in? 

-Was just getting to that. As I said, every corp has a singularity that makes their life easier and turns them into a monopolist. L Corp's singularity wasn't in producing energy per say, it was about bringing in entities that would then produce energy. 

-Hold up, wait a minute. You mean to say that they used things that can leave corpses in their wake, as some sort of glorified generators? 

-Yep,-he said, popping the P.

-Your time is nuts,-she declared confidently, shaking her head in dismay. 

-Took you long enough to realize. 

She gave him the look of annoyance and he continued. 

-I mean, they weren't just generators, they could also make a reality defying equipment out of it. Sturdier than any fabric, deadlier than any weapon. 

-You didn't say anything about that,-she noted suspiciously. 

-Well, not that we can use any of it. You need special equipment to… what was the term? Extract it, yeah. 

-There goes that idea… Anyway, what happened next?

He hesitated, this time for a long minute. An inner battle if he really should reveal a story that wasn't his to tell. 

Not that Ritsuka will ever meet any of the Librarians or Angela, but talking behind their backs like that… He decided to give the bare bones of details. 

-That was all a front though. The real goal behind Lobotomy Corporation was much grander. 

-Oooh? Did they want to achieve the world… err, City domination or something?

-Worse, they wanted to save the City,-he replied matter-of-factly, sounding so very done.

-Can't see how that can be a bad thing?-she quirked her brow, unsure. Clearly there was a catch here somewhere. 

-You sure? Eldritch abominations didn't set some alarm bells off?

-Well if you put it that way… 

-The tale is… a bit lengthier than this, but to cut the long story short, there was once a woman who wanted to cure people of the "disease of the soul". What that was I have no idea, but she was dead set on curing it. The woman's name was Carmen and she strung along a colorful bunch of characters to help her. With her was her dear friend and lover, (probably/maybe? I'm not sure) named Ayin, who was there to help her. 

Roland took some time to breath, structuring the story further. 

-Unfortunately, as most stories in the City go, this one eventually went to hell as well. Experimentations demanded human resources and one of the mentioned characters decided to volunteer. It all went to shit, the guy died, Carmen couldn't bear the weight on her conscience and chose the easy way out. It was, of course, all set in a way that would then help the others progress. 

"Oookay, that turned dark pretty darn fast". 

The look of subject horror must have reflected on her face, because Roland just shrugged, as if telling "well, shit happened". 

-Ayin, being a good friend, decided to carry on her legacy. The timeframe here is a little unclear, but the laboratory at which this whole thing was carried out was found out, personnel killed and it all got worse. Ayin got the hold of himself, started the war which you saw, and established himself as a Wing. 

The news left her stumped. Obviously, there were details he didn't tell her. But this felt a bit too much of a leap. 

But the conversation had to go somewhere. 

-Please tell me this is all there is to it…-she almost pleaded, torn between genuine disgust and curiosity. 

Just remembering what she saw in that dream made her clench her fist, hard. Her heart was bleeding just from hearing all of this. She could only hope that it was about to get better… 

-Weeeell, Ayin decided it was a good idea to put the brains of his fallen comrades into metal coffins and put them in charge of the facility…

She groaned. 

-And then put it all in a time loop. 

She almost screamed. 

-Then created an AI that was responsible for this whole shitshow, until enough energy was produced to power this Seed of Light thingy. 

She had a feeling that it wasn't the kicker just yet. Although a sentient machine sounded important. 

She had to say though, this alone was enough to make her swoon. 

-And as a result, ten thousand years of their subjective time later (ten in the normal world), they managed to complete it. 

Yep, there it is. 

-And the seed of light is basically something supposed to make Cityfolk "embrace their true selves".

-That's… kind of uncertain,-she said hesitantly. 

-I know, right? I'm still wondering how anyone could follow Carmen with a plan like that. Because as far as I'm concerned her great fucking ideas have only made my life worse,-the nonchalance with which he spoke did little to hide the intense hatred hidden just beneath. 

He then whispered something sounding like: "Wish there was a grave I could spit on…" but she wasn't so sure. 

Despite her question being well and truly answered, he continued:

-Remember I told you about a sentient AI? 

She nodded. 

-So… Ten thousand years in hell can make even a machine start to feel things. And when it all came to a head, the curtain was about to fall…She snatched the light for herself, only making it rain for three days instead of planned seven. Fucking up whatever was supposed to happen… To be fair, at this point I don't think it would have gone as expected either way,-he muttered, more so to himself, and then continued.

-And in place of the old Lobotomy corporation, She created the Library.

Ritsuka's eyes widened. 

-Which I became a part of later on. 

She stared, sweating and uncomfortable under a knowing look. 

-What? Don't look at me like that. I might not have mentioned, but I was an information broker, and a damn good one. So I naturally know when someone wants to fish for information. 

He delivered the line calmly, not hurt or angered by what she wanted to do. Even smiling cockily a little.

And he probably knew why she wanted to do this in the first place. 

-Listen, Roland I'm… 

-It's alright,-he placated her with a gesture,-I get where you are coming from and can't really blame you. Seriously, for a second I thought you just didn't have a mean bone in your body. You trusting me at all was… refreshing. You wouldn't survive the City though. Like at all. 

-And I honestly really don't want to visit,-she commented, smiling wryly. 

Roland returned it. 

The silence following the exchange wasn't uncomfortable, but lacked a certain liveliness. 

-Listen, Ritsuka,-Roland's face turned more stoic, eyes gaining a solid, resolute edge. But one that wasn't forceful, but rather, truthful,-I know it might be a bit too much of me to ask this. I've been skirting around the issue of well… me, for a bit. Can't say it was unintentional. But our goals align. You want to see this whole mess,-his hand glided through the air, pointing at everything,-over. And I'm more than willing to help. I'll follow you into hell.

"But not of loyalty or a rightful purpose"-remained unsaid, yet Ritsuka felt them there all the same. 

Although, she wanted to think that there was a "for now" at the end of it. 

And their goals aligning… Pieces of this puzzle started to fall into place in her head, but there were not enough of them.

-And err,-he reverted to his normal attitude,-if you still want to hear about me, well…

He scratched the back of his head, the work of mind clear to see. 

-I guess I'll share some of it. No playing around this time,-his face was sincere, open. Making his restless eyes and a slight wince all the more pronounced. 

Clearly, this level of opening up was new to him. 

-You promise?-she asked, her lips curled into an amused tug. 

-Mm, listen I try not to make promises these days so…-and he really didn't want to without the need. 

-Na-hah, no deal, mister. It's a pinky promise or no deal. 

He furrowed slightly, making her somewhat unsure if she pushed a bit too hard. But Roland caved. 

-Alright, sure, whatever. 

-Great, it's a pinky promise,-she grabbed hold of his finger,-You break it and Kiyohime gets to roast you. 

"It's that Kiyohime-lady again"-he thought, somewhat fearfully. 

-Sure-sure, whatever,-he waved her off with a huff,-But let's do that another time, yeah? It's getting a bit too late. 

Ritsuka looked at the now purplish expanse of the sky above. 

She had a huge military operation to run tomorrow. Even though it felt like he got off the hook again. 

-Tch, whatever. You get some rest ya'hear?!-she pointed her fist at him. 

-Alright-alright, no need to get violent, jeez,-he smirked. 

Ritsuka gave him a toothy grin, before shutting the door behind her, leaving the scene. 

As Roland stared at the door, his own smile fell little by little, settling into that contemplating grimace. 

He wondered, was it the guilt that made him accept this promise? Desire to be trusted and trust back?

-My thoughts look more like Binah's monologues now…

He let out a long sigh. Knowing that sometime, somewhere, the Patron of Philosophy is cracking a knowing and sadistic smile. 

But he wasn't about to drown himself in rumination. He had enough of that yesterday. 

Today - he rests. 

Tomorrow - he battles. 

Everything else can come later. 

*****

The coolness of the morning air was gently brushing against her skin. To her, it felt like the world itself wanted to gift her comfort. One final respite, before the inevitable turmoil. 

Yet, Ritsuka Fujimaru couldn't quell her nervousness. 

It wasn't apparent, from the outside, she would have looked perfectly calm and collected. 

She learned to hide her tells from others going through the journey. Like her biting on her thumb or that little tick, when her ear twitched a bit. She conquered them all. Inspired by Arturia's stoic expression, EMIYA's devil-may-care attitude with most things (even if it was not so) and Jalter's perpetual scowl. 

That last one especially. Ritsuka knew she cared, deep down, but as if the thought itself was revolting, she tended to knit her brows. She adopted it, in a way. Her fists were now in a cycle of clenching and relaxing, her nails biting into the smooth fabric of her gloves. If it wasn't for the mystic code, she was pretty sure she would have some very nasty scratches.

She did it every time she felt fear. Everytime she felt like running and never turning back. The strength of her grip filled her with valor. Proved to her that however little power she had, she still had a semblance of control. 

Besides, pain also made her mind run a little faster. 

But really, the only real reason she didn't found herself in a pit of despair, was her sweet, loving Mash. Shielder was there to witness everything, from her many breakdowns to her silent tears. Which they shared, when it all went really bad… She would just be there for her, reliable as always. 

It made a world of difference to her. 

But not today. Today - she couldn't keep her impulses in check. Her leg trembled slightly, while grip was firm, but felt so much weaker. And she left her room without anyone knowing, in a childish fit of "wanting to be alone for a bit", as El-Melloy II would've called it.

If he was here, that is. 

Dark thoughts only amplified the ominous feeling in her stomach. Was it a bad premonition or just her having a stomach ache? 

She stifled a laugh. That was a funny thought, wasn't it? 

Regardless, her thoughts lacked their usual optimism. You don't need to be a genius to realize that this whole operation could go to shit. A feeling, sticky and cold, started to envelop her as she…

Breathe in, hold for four seconds, breathe out, four seconds. 

She probably butchered that technique, not that she could really care. She slapped herself on the cheeks, driving away the last of her fears. 

If the leader gives up, then how can everyone else hope to succeed? So she collected herself. 

-Senpai,-came from behind her.

-Fou! Fou-fou-kyuu!-the little rascal greeted her as well, jumping from Mash's shoulder onto hers, nuzzling onto her cheeks, making her chuckle. 

-Ha-ha, it tickles Fou,-she smiled, her eyes straying from the furried something onto her trusted companion,-Good morning Mash. 

-Good morning, Senpai,-she smiled back, and Ritsuka couldn't help herself. 

She hugged the lavender-haired girl, getting a firm embrace back. Instantly, she noticed how her back relaxed, how her leg was now steady. Yep, she needed this big time. 

-Senpai, why were you up so early? I couldn't find you in your room,-Mash spoke, a hint of accusation in her tone. 

-Er, he-he, I guess my nerves got to me and I woke up earlier than needed?-she scratched her cheek, meeting Mash's strict look,-No-no, don't look at me like that! I'm being completely honest here! 

She broke the embrace, lifting her arms in surrender. 

-I believe you, Senpai, but you should have told someone where you were. 

-Yeah, my bad. But hey, didn't we agree to meet up here yesterday? You know, before marching out.

-Indeed we did,-the voice was confident and boisterous.

Ritsuka whipped her head to the right, where Edison and Blavatsky stood. How she didn't notice them opening the door, she really didn't know. 

The better question was how Edison even got into a tiny door frame, but she learned not to question things like that. 

-I see the work of thought on your face, vice-presi-king. To answer the question - there is a special elevator. 

-Was it that obvious?-Ritsuka smiled incredulously. 

-I asked him why we even needed it not too long ago,-Blavatsky mirrored the Master's smile,-He said that a king must have his land in the palm of his hand. 

-Hm,-an amused huff from her right notified everyone of Scatach's arrival. 

Soon, one by one, everyone else arrived. With each person on the now small wall, she felt the nervousness hide deep within her mind. 

It wasn't enough to purge it, but having people to watch your back was reassuring. 

With a screech, the door opened and the last of their company arrived. 

-Sorry I'm late, I put off doing something till the last minute,-Roland strolled in, scratching the back of his head. Behind him, Red Hood followed like a silent shadow, not meeting the eye of anyone present. Especially Nightingale. 

With a clap, Ritsuka got hold of everyone's eyes. 

-Alright people, today is the day! We kick the Culter's butt…

-Did she seriously come up with that nickname just now?-Roland asked Arash dubiously, not bothering with hiding a small grin in his voice. 

-Apparently,-the Archer just shrugged, also smiling. 

-Let's go over the plan one last time. Arturia,-she suddenly pointed at the King of Knights,-What are you supposed to do?

-Lead the main forces of the northern army,-she replied without a second thought. 

-And I must assist her in that ordeal,-added Edison, with Blavatsky, Robin, Arash and Liz nodding. 

-Karna!

-I must garner my friend's attention,-answered Lancer curtly but with unmistakable resolve. 

-And I should beat the stupid student of mine senseless,-provided Scatach, a bloodthirsty lilt to her voice. 

-And it's up to us to get the grail,-Ritsuka eyed everyone on her team,-Killing the Wolf in the process,-she added, but all she got was an emotionless stare. 

 -Anyway,-she averted her eyes and continued on with the speech,-Remember people, don't risk it and ask for help if you need to. 

A small pause, the somber undertone didn't escape anyone, but she refused to let it settle. 

She grasped onto the feeling this unity she felt gave her and lifted her fist up in the air, an eager, confident smile exposed to the world, as a statement against the hardship. 

-We're gonna win this! 

And Roland, along with everyone else had to say - her mood was infectious. 

-Alright, we move out in ten, get the troops ready. See you guys in a bit,-Ritsuka ended her pep talk and everyone scattered to do their own thing. 

Hands on her hips, she looked into herself and realized there was no trace of the defeatist mindset to be found. 

She glanced onto the plains beyond the castle walls and thought to herself. 

"To save humanity".

And as a small, unnecessary addendum. 

"To save myself". 

*****

The battle started with an arrow. 

It flew like a blue comet, striking at the ranks of mechanized infantry, plowing their numbers. 

Without further ado, the D.C team started their break in. 

-Soldiers, forward! Left flank, group tighter! Center! Don't let them push you in further! Right flank, onto the offensive! - Arturia shouted out commands, having relinquished the right of a general from Edison. 

Meanwhile, it only took Ritsuka a blink to completely lose Scatach out of sight, only noticing a crimson streak leaving bodies in her wake, aimed at Cu Chulainn, who was also present at the battlefield. 

And who seemed to want to deal with things on his own terms, as Arash informed her of Culter's leaving for the nearby forest. 

Meanwhile, Karna played his part masterfully, the shots all aimed at Lancer, which he deflected without much effort. 

*CHING- CHING - CLANG*

-Quit daydreaming, will you!-said Roland, as he deflected a sudden halbert to her head with a hammer.

-Khm, sorry,-her head back in the game she quickly assessed her situation. Despite being swarmed from the right, left and center, they were steadily moving through the enemy ranks. Cover fire from the archers was a small blessing, but they were going to lose it sooner or later, with very little vantage points as they went further. 

-Mash, cover for Roland. Rama, get a bit back, you are straying from us. Arash, cover fire. 

She then noticed how Rama was about to get stabbed by a stray sword. 

*CHING* *THUD*

But got intercepted by Nightingale's fist, turning it into scrapped metal. 

-Ha, okay, so far so good,-she muttered under her breath as they progressed further in. 

She didn't notice the inquisitive gaze of a red hooded woman beside her, who was just minding her business, occasionally turning someone's head into bloody mush, if they dared to approach her.

To herself, Ritsuka thought that they only needed to keep this up.

*****

Things were looking up. 

Not too far away, the shockwaves of a fierce battle resounded throughout the whole battlefield. 

-Holy crap, those guys aren't pulling their punches!-Roland nodded, a bit awestruck, while simultaneously ducking under an axe. 

-Yeah, we better stir clear of them,-Rama added,cutting a group in half. 

-Hey, Karna seems to be overpowering him!-Romani voiced his optimistic outlook. 

And ultimately jinxed it. 

-GAE BOLG!

The sound barrier being broken was deafening. 

To Ritsuka and many others, the picture remained forever etched in their mind. Almost frame by frame, most could see how a gaping hole was made through Karna's chest. 

One moment it was going great. 

Another, she could feel how her heart drops to the pit of despair. 

-Mash, take me there!-was her first response to the sudden display. 

No, the shielder did the only right thing, standing between the Berserker and her Master. Roland did the only other sensible thing as well, grabbing hold of Ritsuka and proving her attempts to sprint to the possibly most dangerous man in the singularity fruitless. 

-Cu… Chulainn,-through the bloodied lips, Karna struggled to deliver his discontent. 

-Don't mind me, hero of charity. In this killing game there ain't any rules. 

Arjuna stood struck, like an arrow had just pierced his entire being. 

-YOU BASTARD!-only to return with the burning anger dancing in his eyes. 

-Hm? Don't look at me like that, scum. Who said that you can indulge in your little petty one-on-one? We have a bit of a situation on our hands, after all,-Culter stared at the Chaldean group. 

-Wait, if he is here, then Scatach…-it's only then that Ritsuka recovered enough from her shock. 

Just to be plunged deeper into the pit. Mash took better hold of her shield, fixing it in her hands firmly, despite the cold sweat. Rama's face was one of grim determination and Nightingale's could be considered a one big frown at this point. 

The squeeze Roland gave her went unnoticed, before it became painful. 

-Get your shit together,-he whispered through gritted teeth. 

Ritsuka eyed him, blinking away the emotions out of her eyes. 

-Hah, good grief,-and only the mercenary could keep her cool completely unbothered and cynical. 

-Ho, and you are?-Culter was interested in the new piece on this board. 

-Just passing by, hunting things. Seen any big wolves lately?-she answered nonchalantly, not giving a direct answer. 

-Hm, so you're the killer they told me about. Honestly, a big pain in my ass, killing all those squads…-he eyed her, irritation subtle, but visible. 

Which he allowed to take control. 

-Guess you are first on the chopping block!-Culter snapped into action, but got his thrust blocked by a shield. 

Metal screeched, Mash gasped barely holding on. The screaming of the metal might as well have been her own. 

Rama didn't miss his chance.

-Ha!-he side-stepped the lance now pointed at him, with Mash smashing into the king, limiting his movement. 

-If you insist on getting in the way!- Alter clicked his tongue, before using the shield as a platform, evading another strike and flying into the air.

Getting into the perfect position to be sniped. 

*BANG-BANG*

And Roland doesn't miss those. Shots landed on the exposed chest, leaving barely a scratch. With the distance gained, a small pause descended. 

-Tch, you guys are no more than fucking flies,-he spit out, frowning.

-And you!-Berserker continued, eyes peering into the merc, under her hood, to be precise,-Not so much of a hot piece of shit now, huh? Why'd you stand back there? Ain't it boring?-he intoned, feeling somewhat more involved in this little battle than he was back in the capital a few days ago. 

Red Hood only let out a very annoyed huff, but did nothing. 

To Roland, it seemed like the situation was going south fast. They lost their best asset, they are losing time and opportunities. 

And their survival is not at all assured. 

However, their strongest fighter was standing right behind him, sufficiently annoyed and only needed a little push to make things happen. So he hoped.

Eyeing RItsuka who wasn't leaving the main problem out of her sight, he let out a small and tired sigh. 

Roland was no manipulator, but you can't survive the Backstreets without making the big fish fight against each other. 

This was a huge bet, and honestly, he had never made one this risky since the day he entered the Library. 

But what was there to lose? 

-Hey, Hood,-Roland addressed the merc standing beside him, getting the eye to flick his way,-I'm pretty sure that this guy knows where to find your game. He was commanding it around last I saw. 

She glared at him, but soon after, he could have sworn that she smiled with her eye.

-And what, you tell me to go beat it out of him? 

-I dunno, but if you wanna skin the bastard, who's to know where it is better than its boss? 

Her eyes narrowed in suspicion, but then she said, dashing Roland's hopes. 

-Resourceful but naive-she stated, less annoyed and more amused at how he wanted them to fight each other. 

-Rats can't be choosers…-he just said, wincing at the futile attempt. 

-Here he comes!-Mash yelled as the shield once again took the brunt of it.

-Roland, flank! Rama, with him! Nightingale - openings! Mash, just hold on!-Ritsuka, frustrated but combat ready, took to commanding. 

Under the mask, Red Hood's lips tugged down. The mad dog was right, it was rather boring to stand on the sidelines. 

But the Bastard was more important than the hound, so her mind was made.

A small worm of something ate at her, but she didn't notice, too absorbed in her hatred and soon to arrive vendetta. 

*****

-Haaa - Kha-kha,-Karna breathed out through bloody coughs as he lay on the rough ground, Arjuna standing above him. 

The Archer was… lost. 

The battle just before him was just an afterthought, a noise on the periphery of his hearing. 

He was lost in the picture of his rival dying at his feet. 

A storm of emotions raged within his heart, while his head was completely void of them. 

It was strange. He felt strange. It felt wrong.

Emotions were tearing at him. How wrong it all felt, despite this being what he wanted. 

Not the way he wanted, but what he ultimately desired. Right? 

 No. This could not be his desire. He desired…

-Arjuna,-raspy, but steady, with that trace of dependability still present, the voice interrupted Archer's train of thought. 

-W-what,-his tone betrayed his nervousness at the sudden call. 

-Help me up, brother…-was all he said, with that unchanging smile. The same smile he had seen in their last battle. 

…And Arjuna complied, more on instinct than anything. 

Arjuna's nature, sealed in his heart of hearts, vibrated with murderous impulses . It was the "honorable" warrior that nodded, lifting the man up from the ground gently. 

 -Thank you, haaa,-Karna gasped for air, only holding up on his inhuman endurance. 

And Arjuna was just watching this happen, as the scarlet dripped and stained his white clothes, as the mud on his shoes mixed with the blood of the man he hated the most. 

And couldn't help but… admire?

Perhaps it couldn't be called admiration. Respect, more like. 

A dazzling sun, near which he felt so insignificant and wanted nothing more than to turn into the darkest shadow. But even those could admire the warmth this man so selflessly shared. 

The strangeness of the situation could even keep at bay the thoughts of putting the dagger he held on his person into the man's back. With the… discontent of the situation leading the charge. Yes, he could now identify his emotions more clearly. Decades have passed since their final encounter and it was only now that he finally managed to get the grasp of his feelings. 

The small, dark, insignificant schemer in him, the coward for whom anything went. 

Himself, who he couldn't help but accept. The darkness of the one endowed with truly divine gifts. Yet he was still envious of the sun leaning on his shoulder. 

Stewing in his conflicted emotions, Arjuna kept Karna upright in silence. 

The two heroes of the Indian epic stood like that for a few more moments. Until something unusual happened up ahead. 

*****

Thinking about it now, it was pretty obvious that mist appearing out of nowhere in the middle of the day was strange. 

Roland couldn't give it too much thought, though, too occupied with getting manhandled. 

He wasn't actively in the fight, having nothing too impressive to show except for getting in the way and creating opportunities for Rama and Nightingale to act. 

Which didn't stop the king from throwing fireballs his way anyway. That was one hell of a discovery - the guy knew magecraft. 

But it only took a humming man and an unknown spell to throw Cu Alter ten meters away. 

-Hm-hm, hm-hm, hm-hm-hm-hm-hm, as I stroll along in a dream this vivid, I find myself in a oh so strange land. Illusion or not… well, it hardly matters,-it was only then the fixer noticed - there was a dome of mist surrounding them. 

And as the silhouette of someone stepped into the clearing in between combatants, the man made it clear that he had no idea what the hell was going on. 

As the intruder's head spun from left to right, Roland slowly dragged the barrel of his gun the presumed magus' way. You know, just in case. 

The unknown man then smiled disarmingly and introduced himself:

-Good morning and hello all. Everyone's trusted friend, Mr. Merlin, is here.

-Who?-asked both Roland and Ritsuka. 

 -Oh well, if you don't know - you don't know. Just know that this visit is very special, not a follow up, yep. Not at all. And it's completely incognito, kind of. So don't tell a soul, ok?-his smile turned impishly sly,-Consider this a sort of happy coincidence, as I really shouldn't be here. 

Cu Alter didn't at all mind the sudden interruption. It was more like he even welcomed it. The constant back and forths when no one really gave it their all was a lot less interesting than this. 

That, and his instincts told him to be wary of this man in front of him. 

-Oh, where are my manners?-the wizard bowed slightly,-Congratulation on your coronation, Cu Chulainn. Never thought I'd see you on a throne, but Fate has the most unusual of outcomes in store, and I'm all for seeing them. 

Suddenly, Alter's brow twitched and he came to some kind of epiphany. 

-I see, you must be a stargazer. Isn't this against the rules? 

Most of that conversation sounded like rubbish to Roland. 

What wasn't, though, was the movement he caught in the sea of fog just behind the king. 

And if he was right about this… 

"Ritsuka, I need you to use momentary reinforcement on that guy in the fog".

"Who? I don't… oh."-she caught up fast. To be fair, Karna's garb was hard to mistake for something else, even in the fog this dense. 

"I'll follow up with my own attack, from afar. Tell everyone else not to fuck this up,"-he said tersely, and added the last part, knowing too well that this opportunity might be their only way out of this situation. 

And while he was thinking that, he made a mental note to go to Da Vinci and order some new weapons for himself. 

The conversation, meanwhile, carried on until…

-*YAWN*,ah, it seems that I'm about to wake up. This is as far as my help can go, unfortunately. Be sure to slay the beast and that wolf, please. And farewell, until we meet in the slightly altered future. 

As the man was disappearing into flowers, he added:

-Oh, and take care of Cath Palug for me. 

And this was exactly the moment they were waiting for. 

In a flash, rounds rained onto the Berserker from his blind zone, hitting one of his eyes and disorienting slightly. 

The mystic code came to life at Ritsuka's will and…

-BURN HIM TO ASHES, VASAVI SHAKTI!- a yell ripped through the air with almost unbearable heat. 

The flame of what seemed like sun burned at Alter's flesh, making him grind his teeth from the fire, eating at his flesh. 

Roland didn't miss the chance given by the sacrifice. 

-FURIOSO!

The gunshots went off and almost at the same time he was already at the Alter's side, the weight of the spear multiplied by the speed digging into the scales, ever so slightly, throwing off the hand that was supposed to grab hold of him with a hammer and leaving deep gushes of red all around King's body with a follow-up katana slashes. 

At that point, he was too fast for the king to catch up, with Rama stepping in to get the hit on his sword, Roland cut at the enemy's ankles, sidestepping behind to lunge an axe into the spine and a mace into the kidney. 

Then, descending a hundred tons of singularity enchanted steel . 

Cu Chulainn turned hastily, blocking the strike on the shaft of the spear, kneeling from the force as the ground beneath turned into a crater. Clicking his tongue at both the weight and Rama's sword about to pierce his side.

At that point, Alter tried to disengage hastily, taking the hit, but Roland wasn't about to stop. He was just an afterimage of black smoke at this point, the cold metal slicing into Culter's sides as he failed to block the hit. A shot once more, yet no result. A miss. A second which Alter capitalized on making even more distance. 

Fixer chased, Durandal singing, leaving dark traces in the air.

Swing - blocked. A counter - blocked. 

A thrust. The blood is drawn. The tip of the blade submerged in the abdomen by twenty centimeters.

The action then followed by a loud, almost deafening crack. 

-ARGH!-through clenched teeth, Roland screams in pain, as in a last ditch effort the King grabs onto his hand and twists .

-ROLAND!-Rama came to the rescue just before the fixer had his heart pierced, followed closely by Nightingale.

But by that time, Cu Alter just flees. No biting remarks or vicious curses. 

And while some seized the opportunity…

-I'm sorry Master, it didn't quite reach… KHA, him,-Karna smiled ruefully, as he stumbled to the ground,-Farewell. 

Ritsuka sprinted to catch his body, but he disappeared in the motes of gold before she could even touch him. 

Arjuna stood a few steps away, watching his rival die. His face an unreadable mask. 

Ritsuka tried to grab onto the golden dust, but it kept slipping through her fingers. Her eyes grew vacant, the nails painfully biting into her hands.The gloves not helping at all. 

She might not have spent too much time with Karna, but she came to appreciate the subtle moments of care. The tiniest of smiles and the words of encouragement they shared in between the planning. She guessed that she just hated it when good people had to go. 

Perhaps, she just hated that she had to add another body to the pile of dead people she had left behind.  

She knelt, too unsteady to hold herself upright.

There were two spectators to her grief. Both strangers to her, yet something in the display… moved them. 

Only moments later, did everyone else run to the master, after Alter's escape. 

Well, most ran. Roland walked with barely noticeable limp. 

Everyone stood around her, in such a way that she would be shielded from Arjuna, who was still frozen in place. 

But no one dared to touch or talk to her - everyone was too hesitant to do anything. Except Mash. 

-Senpai,-the shielder turned around, with the remaining servants not so subtly moving in the formation to cover for her,-I…

There was, however, one person in this crowd who didn't give a fuck. 

-Oh, for fuck sake. Stop with this dramatic bullshit. The guy died, so what? This one is just standing there with this expression of all the world's woes and he was trying to kill him just a few freaking minutes ago. The motherfucker is standing still - kill him. If you don't do it, I will, we are wasting time here. I already regret not charging you a per hour payment,-Red Hood was above this whole drama schtick, old rivalries, wizards appearing out of fucking nowhere. 

There is a wolf in need of killing. Enough said. That rant pulled everyone back to the harsh reality.

Ritsuka sent a baleful glare mercs way. 

She was, however, right. There was still a matter of Arjuna to take care of. And only one person who wanted to get to the bottom of this. 

Nightingale stepped forward amidst the growing glares of hostility. 

-Arjuna,-her voice was tranquil, but, perhaps it was the play of setting sun - her eyes seemed so much heavier when she said that,- Have you any desire for treatment? 

-Treatment? And what do you suppose my illness is? What do you plan to cure?-he half-spat, half-mocked. 

She stood still, gauging his reaction, then continued on with her speech. 

-We are servants, summoned with one goal. Karna upheld his duty as a servant, putting aside his differences. Yet you disregard it for a petty squabble of the days long past. 

-PETTY?!-Arjuna screamed,-You dare call my desire…!

-Obsession,-Nightingale effortlessly cut into his rant, silencing him just like that,-I know not exactly what urged you to do all of this. The undesirable end of your rivalry or something deeper, more personal. And I care not. We all want to redo something in our lives, but you forgot. There is no changing what happened. And this,-she motioned around, her gaze lingering on where Karna's phantasm hit,-is what it had led to. 

NIghtingale's speech found more than one listener, some relating more than others. 

Arjuna's winced, lip trembling ever so slightly in agitation and deep-seated doubt. 

Because, while one part of him wanted to plot and murder and hide away, the other wanted people to be happy. See his subjects prosper, friends healthy, family happy. And duty - fulfilled. 

It was just as much of a part of him as his shadow. Because he could see it clearly now. 

Winning against Karna fair and square came later. It was the instinctual horror you found in yourself after you have committed something truly atrocious, unbefitting. And when the shadow over his heart receded, he was left there to pick up the pieces. 

-I…-he couldn't place it into words, suddenly, all of his vigor escaping him.

-Do you wish to fight? You may do so, it might even help,-NIghtingale's gaze stared deep into his own, and Arjuna just nodded. 

-Yes, help me quench this feeling,-he asked earnestly, but with dignity. Like they weren't doing him a favor. 

The nurse's gaze landed on Ritsuka, and the girl, in turn, nodded. 

-Alright, people, in formation!-she yelled, pumping her fist and bringing out as much of her fighting spirit as there was left. 

She really hated the idea that this probably wouldn't be the last time she had to do something like this. 

-Alright, you guys do that, I'll sit this one out,-Roland said as he leaned onto the nearby log. 

-Oh, no you don't - First Aid!-as words left her, Roland suddenly realized that he wasn't hurt all over. Better yet, he found out that his open fracture suddenly got fixed in real time. 

-Okay, this is some K. Corp level shit,-he said begrudgingly, raising his arse from the warm soil, Durandal at the ready. 

Arjuna waited patiently and then nodded.

Fast as light, he knocked the arrow on the bow. 

And the battle began anew. 

*****

Arjuna was one slippery motherfucker, that's what Roland deduced after a whole ten minutes of battle. 

-Roland, duck!-fixer did as he was told, ducking as a shield was swung and deflected the arrow aimed at him. 

-Thanks!-he said, firing with his two pistols, missing by a hair's breadth. 

"Roland, on the offensive, we need to finish this now!"-Ritsuka said urgently, and with the side of his eye he caught battalions of soldiers coming their way. 

Of course Cu Alter wouldn't let them be like that. 

"I can't pull another Furioso just yet".

"We need to knock some sense into him, not kill him!"-Ritsuka admonished, and Roland conceded the point, switching to the pair of swords. 

And then - he ran like there was no tomorrow. 

*THUNK* 

An arrow lodged itself into the ground. 

*CLANG-CLANG-CLANG*

Bending his arms at almost unnatural angles, Roland deflected one after another, all while running for his life. 

Then, Arjuna charged his arrow with brilliant blue prana, holding the shot until… 

-Damn it!-Roland shouted, about to get the hit on the greatsword. 

-Roland-san!-until the shout came from behind, and he abruptly stopped. 

*BOOM*

Wincing from the sound, Roland jumped out of the cloud of dust, having been protected by Mash's shield. 

Spear in hand, Fixer put everything into his legs, springing forward and leaving a small crater behind. 

Arjuna pulled a fast one on him, his arrow suddenly caught fire and launched at him. 

At this speed, there was no getting away from the collision course. 

-Momentary reinforcement!-Ritsuka shouted from the back. 

So he just needed to be even faster. 

He jumped up, the hot air blowing past him, raising another cloud of dust behind. 

But Arjuna, in all of his shrewdness, had a knife up his sleeve. 

Landing on uneven feet, Fixer was caught off guard as a knife grazed his neck. 

Knife met knife. A clawed gauntlet let out sparks as Roland redirected some blows or took them on the knife. The exchange itself was quick and not in fixer's favor. He was unpleasantly surprised to find out that the frail frame of an Archer hid more strength than it let on. 

Then, he heard the steps from behind and a gust of wind. 

His first thought was - it's an ally. But then bloodlust hit him. 

Eyes widening behind the mask, he did what his gut told him and blocked the dagger that aimed for the archer's shoulder, missing the moment when Arjuna pierced his own. 

What bug bit him to do that - Roland did not know. 

A loud clang resounded across the clearing, with sparks crying out, mixed with Roland's blood. 

Pain almost creeping up his mind, Roland noted, idly, that he's been taking a lot more hits as of late. 

Arjuna was visibly confused by the sudden change, but he wouldn't be a seasoned warrior if he didn't recognize when someone was trying to off him.

-Why'd you stop me, dammit?!- an eye of burning yellow glared at Roland from under the hood, which didn't stop her from pulling out the pistol and firing out at point blank. 

*BANG*

Archer had enough agility and sense to dodge. 

Abruptly, the battle stopped. The distance between the three combatants widened as they stared intensely at each other. 

-I'll ask again, why stop me, Blacky? It better be a good excuse, because I'm losing patience with this bullshit,-words laced with poison, Hood glared at Pretender. 

Arjuna had very much the same question written all over his face. 

And well…

Mask turned into blue motes of light as Roland's face came into view. Stained with sweat and a trickle of blood on the temple, but eyes shining with this determinate and resolute light. 

-It's nothing grand, really. I just thought, well, the guy doesn't deserve dying yet,-he stated, a bit awkwardly. 

-Ha, what a fucking madhouse…-Red Hood shook her head, looking at Roland like he was crazy. 

-What? I'd say that he deserves it. 

-And why is that?-asked Arjuna, not entirely believing. 

Everyone present had their eyes glued to the three.

-Well, it's a long and complicated story, and we're really out of time here,-he eyed the troops coming their way, which Rama went to intercept,-but it can be summed up nicely - one good turn deserves another. Easy as that. Had almost the same situation. And you know, sometimes all people need a chance to turn their life around and all you really need to do is show that there is really another way out. 

-Bullshit,-Hood simply stated.

Arjuna remained silent. Intent and inquisitive, his eyes searched the fixer's face for falsehoods. 

And found none. 

He lowered his bow. 

-Thank you, for allowing this self-indulgence,-he said, tone neutral, with a hint of some kind of revelation. 

-Be our guest,-Ritsuka replied good-naturedly, getting a nod. 

-Ano… might you lend us a helping hand, Arjuna-san?-Mash asked, voice expectant. 

-No, but… I will see how I can repay this lesson you've taught me,-he eyed everyone present, Roland especially, and then took off. 

Raining arrows on the newly arrived soldiers as he went. Fixer, for his part, was rather thankful of the gesture. The rest remained in silence. 

-Tch, you bunch only keep getting in my freaking way, useless sons of bitches,-it seems that this encounter took the last of hood's patience, as she stared at everyone one at a time, her glare positively oppressing . 

-I wanted to be professional about this, but you fuckers just can't do your part of the deal. So I'm out. Fuck with this however you want. 

She turned around with her hood fluttering violently, as if trying to express the owner's seething emotions.

Giving a one last glance at Ritsuka, she turned into an afterimage and vanished. 

In the ten seconds of silence that followed, many glances were exchanged, but nothing sumorised the clusterfuck more than two words Roland said next: 

-Well, shit. 

*****

Dipshits. Morons. Inept motherfuckers. A bunch of pussies. 

These, and many more profanities crossed the mercenary's mind as she followed the trail of the king back to his capital. 

The action itself was so habitual, that the Abnormality could spare all of her attention to badmouthing her supposed employers. 

Ha! What a joke. All these talks about fucking nothing. All that drama, a fucking wizard and self-sacrifice. She respected that last one, if only a bit, but no, sign her out. She didn't agree to that shit. 

Not pulverizing the bunch of them was a mercy, from where she stood. 

Why she didn't… she had no answer. She mellowed out a bit after getting here. Wherever that was. 

Like she was… more calm? Less aggressive? But she decided not to think about it. She opted not to think about anything at all as of late. Not the emotions she felt when she talked with Roland, not when she had a chat with that pissy princess they all care about. Or that nurse. Especially not about that twitch her chest when the girl tried to get hold of the Sunny boy's remains. 

No, what was clear in her mind was ever growing hatred. With each step, with each stride she could feel in her gut how the emotion heated up in her chest, flowing through her body like blood - with blood. Excitement of the battle she felt was inevitable played on the tips of her fingers, itching to draw out her weapons.The memory, - Roland's blocking of her attempt at helping them with their problem. Free of charge, might she add. And the damn cretin blocks it! Leaving a potential enemy, a potential killer behind. 

You don't let the bastards go. They return better, more cunning. And they kill even more people. 

But fuck those guys. She had her sights set on the bigger game. And she knew it was waiting for her.