《TO THE ENDS》


 Ch 1 - Panic and Fury

    Yuna¡¯s earliest memory is holding a dagger far too big for her hand. She marveled at the blade¡¯s edge, which glowed a faint cyan. Her next memory is learning to wield that dagger, no longer struggling to grip it. Then, they¡¯re a blur until that same dagger pierces into the chest of a child. She hung over a young boy on the ground, her hands staining crimson as the blood spilled out. The boy¡¯s relieved expression will forever be seared into her mind. Several gunshots rang out before pelting her side. She winced while a blurred, loud voice screamed. The bullets fell to the ground, semi-flattened, inert. She¡¯d have fallen over had she not been gripping the dagger. She exhaled. A profound, unpleasant odor snapped her from her memories back into a locker room in which she resided.


    The fuck¡¯s with the random trip down memory lane? Yuna thought. Wonder what that bastard instructor said? No. You stupid ass brain, shut up. Focus, god damnit.


    The concrete room held several lockers against a wall, though otherwise barren save some benches. A plethora of stains led from the entrance into an adjoining room. A single individual sat on a bench. Yuna wore a loose-fitting combat suit that covered her from head to toe. It appeared thin yet exuded a great durability to it; countless plating interwoven into a defensive mesh. The helmet had typical slits of a humanoid face but didn¡¯t instill the unsettling nature ballistic masks or full-helmets usually do. Even with no skin showing, her athletic physique stood out. A mechanical sparrow hovered overhead, watching her.


    The odor assaulted Yuna again. In an abrupt, lightning-quick motion, she jumped to her feet and burst through a door into a concrete hallway. She let out a deep breath as the sparrow followed her out, landing on her shoulder.


    ¡°Hey! What¡¯s wrong?¡± A young girl¡¯s soft voice emanated from the sparrow.


    ¡°Fucking hell, Reina.¡± Yuna coughed. ¡°It¡¯s like a thing crawled up another thing¡¯s ass, then that crawled up another ass, and they all died together in there. How am I supposed to focus?¡±


    ¡°If you¡¯d learned more about the suit like I told you to, you¡¯d know it can filter out smells,¡± Reina said.


    ¡°Oh. Well. Yeah, right. My bad.¡±


    ¡°And it can¡ª.¡± Reina rattled off several abilities of the suit.


    ¡°I get it, Reina!¡±


    ¡°Sorry, it¡¯s just got so many awesome features.¡±


    ¡°Which I¡¯ll probably never use. I still don¡¯t think this damn thing¡¯s worth the cost. And it¡¯s riding up something fierce.¡±


    ¡°If you¡¯d calibrated it, that wouldn¡¯t be a problem.¡±


    ¡°Yeah, yeah. This wasn¡¯t worth taking from your fund.¡±


    ¡°Yuna, stop. Please don¡¯t start again. We¡¯ve gone over this; I can wait and I¡¯m not going anywhere.¡±


    ¡°You like that lame joke too much. I¡¯d be fine without this overpriced leotard. I look like one of those lame-asses from a comic book.¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t care and I¡¯m not willing to take that risk; Mama and Papa agreed.¡±


    ¡°Do you doubt me?¡±


    ¡°Not even a little. But it¡¯d be idiotic to underestimate the Praetor. He¡¯s conquered district after district without fail. Even after you win, we''d be in trouble if you got seriously injured. Papa¡¯s reputation won¡¯t hold back other syndicates anymore if they know we¡¯ve come into a big influx of credits. We¡¯d become a target and therefore, need you available.¡±


    ¡°Reina.¡± Yuna turned her head to the sparrow. ¡°You thought that far ahead?¡±


    ¡°Of course. I¡¯m the brains, remember? I have to prevent my reckless, impulsive brawn from being rendered useless.¡±


    ¡°Ahh, my Reina.¡± Yuna grabbed the sparrow and squished it into her armored cheek. ¡°I swear when you finally get a new body, I¡¯m going to squeeze the life outta it.¡±


    ¡°Be serious.¡±


    ¡°I am. That¡¯s my goal in life.¡±


    ¡°Not what I meant. Hurry and calibrate your suit already!¡± The sparrow broke free, hovering at eye-line.


    ¡°Fine. Still think you¡¯re worrying too much. To empty our coffers on this expensive wedgie.¡± Yuna pulled at the suit while shifting about. ¡°You sure it won¡¯t fuck with my movement?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ve tried to tell you, a genuine Aegis suit is much more than mere extra protection. It¡¯s more like a second skin, enhancing everything. It¡¯s incredible!¡±


    ¡°Ehhh.¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t ¡®eh¡¯ me, just do it!¡±


    ¡°Okay, okay. Don¡¯t get your feathers in a twist. This thing¡¯s not gonna try, like, taking over my body, right?¡±


    ¡°No. It has AI assistance, but I disabled it. I didn¡¯t want to risk you flipping out at a strange voice in your head and damaging it.¡±


    ¡°You know me well, sis. Fine. How do I¡ª?¡±


    ¡°Praetor of the Legionnaires, Vigo!¡± a booming voice echoed into the hallway.


    ¡°Oh, fuck.¡±


    ¡°See?¡± Reina said. She then barked instructions as Yuna fidgeted.


    The narrative has been illicitly obtained; should you discover it on Amazon, report the violation.


    ¡°Representative of the Vyxora Syndicate, Yuna!¡± the booming voice echoed.


    ¡°Just in time,¡± Reina said.


    ¡°Wew.¡± Yuna shifted about as she jogged down the hallway while Reina followed. The suit now moved in concert with her every motion, as if it were her own skin. ¡°Okay. You got me. I¡¯ll admit it¡¯s like I¡¯m not even wearing it anymore. Kinda feel naked.¡±


    ¡°Told you. And I¡¯m glad. But please don¡¯t make such weird movements once you¡¯re out there. There¡¯s enough negative rumors about you already.¡±


    ¡°What? You mean like this?¡± Yuna wiggled all about, even while jogging.


    ¡°Quit it!¡± Reina burst into a giggling fit. She stifled herself as they reached the exit. ¡°Please, Yuna, your goal aside, I know how much you¡¯ve been looking forward to a ¡®worthy¡¯ fight that isn¡¯t Papa, but please, please, please tone down the recklessness. Don¡¯t get hurt.¡±


    ¡°Ha. Maybe.¡± Yuna pulled dual metallic hilts from her waist as she exited the hallway.


    ¡°Ahhh.¡± Reina sighed as she watched Yuna. ¡°I hope her confidence doesn¡¯t get the best of her. Does she seriously have to twirl her transarms right now?¡±


    Yuna entered a grand underground arena, jogging as the bright lights revealed her to thousands of spectators on every side. The oppressive amalgam of noise had no effect on her while she twirled the hilts. As her fingers danced along an embedded grip, metal shifted back and forth. Various melee weaponry formed, morphing from one to the next; swords, axes, maces, and more. The edges of their blades glowed a faint cyan. Then, when she held dual axes, she spun them in her hands. An announcer¡¯s booming voice soon drowned out boos, taunts, and a few cheers.


    ¡°Well, well! This¡¯ a surprise. Ladies and gentlemen, the ¡®Berserker of Vyxora¡¯ is actually wearing an Aegis suit instead of her trademark infamous helmet. Kind of shocking they could afford it.¡± Crowd laughter echoed. ¡°Now, aren¡¯t you all glad we delayed final betting? Before we open them up again, let¡¯s add a bit of flavor, shall we? The Praetor needs little introduction, but¡ª¡±


    Opposite Yuna stood an imposing giant of a man. While it¡¯s clear he also wore an Aegis suit, it had a great deal of ornamentation adorned to it. His suit invoked the armor aesthetic of ancient Roman centurions. He wielded a transarm short sword and shield reminiscent of those warriors. The sword¡¯s edge and tip are a thin, faintly glowing cyan.


    ¡°They¡¯ve been swallowing up rivals nonstop as they approach the requirement for council membership. And as usual, the Legion¡¯s out in full force to support their Praetor!¡±


    The pounding of chests and shouts reverberated throughout the arena. The sound emanated from a large group of men and women, all doing so in concert. They, too, sported the aesthetic of an ancient Roman Legion, albeit with a mixture of modern sensibilities. The group had various heights, builds, and skin hues; shades of blacks, blues, browns, greens, purples, reds, whites, yellows, and many in between. The announcer attempted to continue but went unheard until the Praetor raised a fist. The group ceased their actions.


    ¡°Ahem. Thanks for that, Praetor. The Legionnaires are a disciplined lot; believe it or not, we had to limit their numbers to make room for the rest of you! Moving on! Many of our audience may not have even heard of the Vyxora Syndicate, being as this is their first time here. Their territory comprises only some slums, but is headed by Yuna¡¯s father, the legendary ex-merc ¡®Lionheart¡¯ AKA ¡®Quiet Leon¡¯, Leon Vyx. Somehow, none had challenged them until now! You might be wondering, and probably disappointed, where ol¡¯ Leon is? But worry not! Surely trained by her father since a young age, Yuna¡¯s infamously known as the ¡®Berserker of Vyxora¡¯! A title not without merit, I assure you! She got caught single-handedly crushing several upstart gangs that threatened their territory. To save the gory details, let¡¯s just say it wasn¡¯t pretty. She stomped out every would-be conqueror of Vyxora before even getting to grace our arena. But! That¡¯s not all! The council was none too pleased with her breaking the rules. At her own tribunal, this psycho attempted to challenge a council member!¡± The spectators broke into jeers, boos, and discussion amongst themselves.


    ¡°Now, settle down, folks! You can imagine how she got her nickname. Alas, the details of how all that panned out are still a mystery. However, this is a sanctioned duel by the council, so maybe ol¡¯ Leon pulled some strings? The point is, don¡¯t underestimate her! Bet big, for this¡¯ gonna be a real show to remember! Place your bets!¡± The lights of the underground room shifted to focus on the arena floor. A sea of faint lights flickered from the audience members¡¯ eyes for a time. ¡°Praetor, any words before we start?¡±


    ¡°The Legionnaires bring order to the chaos of Lyrsium¡¯s streets,¡± Vigo declared. ¡°Just as in Ancient Rome, we quell the savages to create stability under our rule.¡± A unified shout echoed from the Legion at each pause. ¡°Politicians do not care. The law do not care. The corporations do not care. Even the council do not care. The Legionnaires do. Scum will be brought to heel and The Legion will ensure there are no more lawless zones of Lyrsium. Only order! Ex nihilo nihil fit.¡± Amidst even louder shouts, the Praetor pointed his sword at Yuna, then raised his shield. The Legion quieted. ¡°As always, I offer a peaceful integration of the Vyxora Syndicate into the Legion. Submit. Or face death.¡±


    ¡°Death!¡± The Legion shouted.


    ¡°And there it is, the Praetor¡¯s ¡®benevolent¡¯ ultimatum!¡± The announcer shouted. ¡°And your response, Vyxora¡¯s Yuna?¡±


    ¡°Yeah,¡± Yuna said. ¡°How about you both shut the fuck up already?¡± She pointed an axe at the announcer, then to Vigo. ¡°I¡¯m gonna bring my heel to this dumbass cosplayer¡¯s head!¡± The audience erupted in a furor.


    ¡°False bravado will serve you poorly, insect.¡± Vigo shifted into a combat stance, sword, and shield at the ready. Reina, meanwhile, had watched from the entrance.


    ¡°Jeez, Yuna. We¡¯re lucky the audience hating you means nothing. Must she always be so antagonistic?¡± Reina sighed.


    ¡°Whelp, folks, bets are entered, just in time!¡± the announcer declared. ¡°To avoid an axe thrown my way, let the festivities begin. Get ready!¡±


    ¡°For christ¡¯ sake, finally.¡± Yuna bounced on her feet while twirling the dual axes. ¡°Almost fell asleep.¡±


    ¡°The duel between the Vyxora Syndicate and the Legionnaires shall now commence. Begin!¡± The announcer declared.


    As Yuna¡¯s swift first step forward touched the floor, an ear-shattering boom echoed throughout the arena. Every single soul present froze in place. She watched as the Praetor fell to the ground. After a brief, eerie silence, murmurs spread throughout. As she approached, the announcer spoke, unaware they were doing so.


    ¡°Is that a hole? In his head? It couldn¡¯t be? It can¡¯t be? What the¡­ t-that shouldn¡¯t be possible!¡±


    The crowd exploded into a panic. They trampled over one another in a mad dash toward the exit. Screams, shouts, and even crying permeated the underground arena. So many that had been anxiously awaiting blood sport mere moments ago were now a chaotic, fearful mass. A pair of men in the row closest to the Praetor argued in loud disbelief.


    ¡°No fucking way. Was he shot? That was a shot, right?¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s not fucking possible, man!¡±


    ¡°Well, he sure as shit looks fucking dead, doesn¡¯t he? He ain¡¯t moving!¡±


    ¡°But he¡¯s even in an Aegis?¡±


    ¡°How should I fucking know? This shit¡¯s crazy. You heard that boom! We need to get the fuck outta here!¡±


    ¡°This shouldn¡¯t be possible!¡±


    ¡°I heard you the first time, now fucking move.¡±


    Similar questions of disbelief and arguing spread throughout the panicked spectators. Yuna reached the Praetor¡¯s motionless, crumpled form amidst the surrounding chaos. She kicked the body for a better view. It gave no reaction. A sizable hole in the direct center of his forehead, clean through his skull, shimmered under the arena lights. She whipped her axes into the ground in fury as she kicked the body again.


    ¡°You gotta be fuckin¡¯ kidding me!¡±

 Ch 2 - Useless Hostage

    Yuna stood over the deceased Praetor, cursing in rapid succession with an occasional kick to the lifeless form. The metal of Reina-sparrow shifted about, reconfiguring into a falcon as it soared toward Yuna. The growing sound of the Legion¡¯s battle cries pierced the manic amalgam from the escaping spectators. Legionnaires lowered themselves from the seating above Yuna to the arena floor. One leapt from the top.


    ¡°Yuna! Look out!¡± Reina yelled.


    Yuna caught the flying Legionnaire by the ankle without even looking. ¡°C¡¯mon, Reina. Like I¡¯d lower my guard enough for one of these bitch-asses to get the drop on me.¡± She swung the Legionnaire with ease in a semi-circle before rifling them toward the others. They slammed into their descending companions, toppling them, and several formed a pile.


    ¡°Yuna, hurry, we need to le¡ª!¡±


    Yuna blurred as she dashed into the Legionnaires. With a brutal kick to one¡¯s back, they fell hard. Another cocked their arm to swing, only to crumple a moment later from multiple palm strikes into their jaw. Others reached the arena floor and moved to converge on her.


    ¡°Praetor!¡± shouted one.


    ¡°For the Legion!¡± roared many.


    ¡°Ya¡¯ll have made a real bad fucking decision.¡± Yuna chuckled as she punted a nearby Legionnaire with a heel kick to the chest. ¡°Thanks.¡±


    Yuna dashed to her closest encroaching flank. With overwhelming deftness, she parried and dodged every haphazard attack sent her way, reciprocating each with multiple heavy blows. Little visible damage appeared on her attackers, yet her repeated accurate strikes clearly took their toll. A giant Legionnaire moved to grab her from behind, only to have their legs swept out from under them, followed by an ax kick hammering them into the ground. Cursing often followed each hit she delivered.


    Meanwhile, Reina¡¯s shouts fell on deaf ears as she tried to regain Yuna¡¯s attention. Reina even switched to speaking directly into Yuna¡¯s helmet to no avail. Yuna¡¯s flurry of martial prowess continued. She danced among the dozens of Legionnaires until one delivered a glancing blow to the side of her head. She faced them, then issued a lightning-fast jab the next moment. They dodged and reciprocated. They engaged in close quarters combat, the only Legionnaire to last more than a few seconds. However, it proved not by much as a flurry of direct blows to their chest sent them reeling. She leapt onto their falling form, pummeling their face until blood at last entered the mix. Though the skin started to show damage, the blood itself leaked out from their eyes and mouth, soon coating her suit with each repeated blow. As other Legionnaires regrouped, the brutality on display caused hesitation.


    ¡°Don¡¯t kill him, Yuna, goddamnit!¡± Reina yelled as the falcon¡¯s talons scratched at Yuna¡¯s helmeted face. Yuna finally ceased and looked up.


    ¡°Oh. Reina. Rare to hear you swear,¡± Yuna said.


    ¡°We need to leave now!


    ¡°But they started¡ª¡±


    ¡°Now!¡±


    The blood-stained Yuna stood and followed Reina back to the Praetor. Grouped Legionnaires cowered as she passed, feigning that they were giving aid to one another. The arena now appeared nigh empty, with the spectators having evacuated. Reina perched atop Yuna¡¯s axes for a moment, then flew off. Yuna retrieved them, set them back at her waist, and they returned to their hilt-only forms. She jogged alongside Reina.


    ¡°Am I in trouble?¡± Yuna asked.


    ¡°Yes. And hurry,¡± Reina said. They exited the arena into the hallway, with Yuna sprinting while Reina¡¯s flight grew erratic.


    ¡°My bad, I know I went overboard again,¡± Yuna said.


    ¡°If you were really sorry, you¡¯d stop doing it!¡±


    ¡°¡®Legion¡¯ my ass, though. The fuck¡¯s the point of cosplaying an ancient army renowned for teamwork if you can¡¯t even give a minor challenge?¡±


    ¡°Large fights are banned.¡± Reina¡¯s voice sounded monotone, dismissive.


    ¡°Well, yeah, even so, you know?¡± Yuna noticed Reina¡¯s erratic flight. ¡°Reina? Hey, you alright?¡± Reina slammed into the corridor wall, to which Yuna caught the falling form. ¡°Whoa, gotcha. I¡¯ll carry you? I guess?¡± She cradled the falcon as she sprinted. ¡°Hello?¡± She prodded its head.


    A short time later, Yuna emerged from a hidden hatch in a floor. She stood in the backroom of a dingy cybernetics shop. The sounds of medical diagnostic equipment, sawing, and drilling permeated from a nearby wall. She entered the front with Reina held at her chest. Cybernetics lined the walls, every part of the human body, and then some. A clerk, puffing on a device between their lips, glanced over, then watched as Yuna left without concern.


    ¡°Of course, it¡¯s fucking raining. Another night in Lyrsium,¡± Yuna grumbled.


    Yuna hunched over to shield Reina as she exited into a dim back alley. Even amongst the rain, the sounds of street vendors, restaurants, and traffic filled the air. She navigated through a chaotic mess of alleyways in this small slum. Towering brightly illuminated skyscrapers cast an oppressive light where there should be none. Various colors danced across the rooftops from advertisements plastered throughout the cityscape. Vehicles of countless shapes and sizes littered the streets. Autonomous drones dotted the air above. They weaved amongst buildings and themselves effortlessly. No stars were visible from within the immense metropolis surrounding them.


    ¡°Oh, wicked. I¡¯m not getting wet? Expensive ass raincoat, though, Reina?¡± Yuna prodded the falcon. ¡°Okay, Reina. Are you that mad at me? Is this the silence treatment?¡± No response. ¡°Rrreeeiiiinnnaaaa.¡±


    ¡°Spreading like wildfire¡­ it¡¯s chaos,¡± Reina said.


    ¡°Huh? What is?¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t you get it, Yuna? That was a gunshot! A crazy loud gunshot! And you! Being such a¡­ such an idiot!¡±


    ¡°What¡¯d I do?¡±


    ¡°Instead of running away like any sane person, you stood over the gunshot victim! What if you¡¯d been next?¡±


    ¡°Oh. Uhh. Guess I was too pissed off. My bad?¡±


    ¡°¡®My bad¡¯ she says.¡± Reina growled.


    ¡°Hey, don¡¯t worry. Still runnin¡¯ hot, but the rain cooled me off a bit. They¡¯ll probably make someone else fight, right?¡±


    ¡°What? Who freaking cares, you¡ªyou numbskull! You could¡¯ve been killed too! Don¡¯t you get that? Jeez! Do I have to spell it out? The Aegis virus literally changed the world overnight two decades ago. And since then, such deaths had almost ceased to exist! Especially after Excalium bullets were completely banned! But now? Now there¡¯s been a fatality through an Aegis suit, of all things! Which even Excalium bullets shouldn¡¯t work on like that! Do you get what that means?¡±


    ¡°Shit. I do sound pretty dumb when you lay it out like that¡­ I was just so pissed off. I am so mother fucking¡ª.¡± Yuna growled.¡± ¡°Finally, get a maybe decent fight and¡ª.¡±


    ¡°Yuna.¡± Reina¡¯s tone crackled.


    ¡°Damnit, fine. Okay. You know I can be slow on these types of things, so I¡¯ll distract myself with this. Will you confirm my thoughts?¡± A brief silence passed. ¡°Reina?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m listening.¡±


    ¡°K. So, most weapons at the time became kinda junk after A-day. I think? But that glowy blue stuff came along almost right away. Right? You just said it too¡­ Ex¡­Exca?¡±


    ¡°Excalium.¡±


    ¡°Yeah, that. Always forgetting the name. Anyway, allows for slicey-slicey of flesh again.¡± Yuna patted the hilt on her hip. ¡°Wait, why aren¡¯t there bullets and whatnot of that stuff again? Think you just said that, too. Banned... or something?¡±


    ¡°Yes. Excalium¡¯s an extremely rare metal for one, hence only the blade edge of your transarms. It¡¯s also heavily regulated by both the government and corpos. And even if it wasn¡¯t, Aegis suits have proven effective against Excalium-made projectiles. Of course, govs and corpos wasted countless billions, even trillions in the early years trying to develop new ways to kill each other but the gap was literally decades. And now, out of nowhere?¡±


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    ¡°Oh.¡± Yuna paused. ¡°Ohhhh. God damn.¡±


    ¡°Is it sinking in now how big of deal this is?¡±


    ¡°Yeah¡­¡± So weird when Reina yells at me. She¡¯s never been this harsh. Huh. I feel cold? ¡°Why am I chilly?¡±


    ¡°Because I remotely cranked the suit¡¯s cooling. Now, just get home asap. And, please, be careful.¡±


    ¡°Almost there. Didn¡¯t you say something about chaos?¡±


    Reina gave no response. Yuna turned into an abnormally dark alley, lost in thought. Then, a man and woman brandishing scalpels, which had a thin, faintly glowing cyan edge, converged in front of her while an enormous man approached from behind.


    ¡°H¡ª!¡± the pair yelled. Without breaking stride, Yuna delivered multiple vicious jabs to each throat. While they collapsed, she stopped briefly and, without turning, sent the large man flying with a backward kick. She proceeded onward, kicking the collapsed man out of her path.


    ¡°You¡¯re lucky Reina told me to stop cutting hands off you fuckin¡¯ trash. Dumbass junkies didn¡¯t even see the suit. God damnit. Now I¡¯m angry again.¡± Yuna cursed under her breath. Fuck, the suit¡¯s cooling is kicking in, again. Hope Reina wasn¡¯t watching¡­ she knows me so well though.


    Yuna soon approached a highrise apartment building and ascended the steps. A man and woman stood guard at the open-air entrance, beneath shelter from the rain. The man jumped to his feet at the sight of Yuna, the rain sliding effortlessly off her suit. He looked in his late teens while the woman appeared much older. She had long jet-black hair swept to one side, with the other side buzzed. She had piercings throughout her face and a tattoo running alongside her ear to her shoulders. Another tattoo, in a stylized word ¡®Vyxora¡¯ on her cheek, pulsed visibly akin to a heartbeat.


    ¡°Val, someone¡¯s coming up,¡± the young man said. ¡°Hey, isn¡¯t that an Aegis?¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s Yuna. Reina already notified me. Calm down,¡± Val said.


    ¡°Yuna? The Yuna? I should greet her, right?¡± He stepped forward. ¡°Lady¡ª!¡± In a swift movement, Val had clasped her hand over his mouth.


    ¡°Whoa there, dumbass newbie. First, if you ever see Yuna hunched over like that, stay the fuck away if you don¡¯t want to get killed. Second, you watch too many dramas, kid. Don¡¯t call her ¡®Lady¡¯ of all things. Again, if you don¡¯t want to get killed.¡±


    ¡°Kirrrphd.¡±


    ¡°Understood?¡± Val released her hand as he nodded, and Yuna passed by.


    ¡°Killed?¡± He rubbed his jaw. ¡°Seriously?¡±


    ¡°Well, I exaggerated a bit. She rarely goes that far. But, if she¡¯s in a bad mood like that, maiming¡¯s pretty much a guarantee.¡± Val flashed a scar on her forearm.


    Even as Yuna entered an elevator quite some distance away, across a courtyard, the man stepped back. ¡°Uh, thanks.¡± Val nodded with a chuckle.


    The elevator brought Yuna to the topmost floor of the highrise. She exited directly into a home entrance, with shoes and coats tucked away neatly around her. A mechanical cat similar to the sparrow she cradled stood a short distance away, looking up at her. The home lacked any noticeable extravagance and permeated a cozy atmosphere.


    ¡°I¡¯ve already been discussing with Mama and Papa,¡± Reina said, her voice emanating from the cat. ¡°Don¡¯t have to see your face to know you¡¯re in a foul mood, but¡ª¡±


    ¡°Yeah, yeah. I¡¯ve calmed down, kinda. Mostly. Dunno how much I like you being able to put me on ice, but it worked. Hm, that smell?¡±


    ¡°Oh, right, we didn¡¯t finish calibration. Mama made your favorite. And¡ª¡±


    Yuna took a step forward when a gentle woman¡¯s voice called. ¡°Yuna, hun, don¡¯t drip on my floor.¡±


    ¡°Yeah, that. Also¡­I¡¯m really sorry.¡± Reina¡¯s tone quieted. ¡°I realized I was so harsh to you earlier. I know how you are. How frustrated you must be right now¡­for several reasons. And I¡ª,¡±


    ¡°C¡¯mon, we both know you should be harsher on me. Plus, I kinda like it.¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t make it weird.¡±


    The next night, Yuna, clad in the Aegis suit, ascended the stairs into the highrise amidst a steady rain. Slung over her right shoulder lay a limp body with their head covered in a soaked hood. They wore a drenched duster coat. She paused at the entrance, re-gripping them and giving Val, who leaned against a nearby wall, a nonchalant wave. She then descended stairs at the corner of the courtyard. The young man exited a nearby room, approaching Val.


    ¡°Uh, Val? Was that Yuna carrying a body?¡± He asked.


    ¡°Oh, you think so too? I didn¡¯t get a good look,¡± Val said.


    ¡°Do we, er, do something?¡±


    ¡°Eh. They looked alive. Don¡¯t see a blood trail. Guess you could let Reina know if you want, though.¡±


    Yuna descended a long staircase underground into a dimly lit concrete corridor. She navigated through several twists and turns until reaching a door. It stood out in stark contrast to the concrete surroundings, a sleek metallic with nothing jutting out. She stood on a mat in front, then lifted her head toward a camera. The door retracted into the wall. A bright light enveloped her as the hum of fans and servers drifted into the hallway. In front of her lay a wall plastered with over a dozen monitors above a desk. A chair swiveled to face Yuna. There sat the mechanical cat.


    ¡°What¡¯re you carrying? Is that a person? What¡¯ve you done?¡± Reina chastised.


    ¡°My shoulders getting sore; rain made this guy¡¯s clothes heavy.¡± Yuna strode into a nearby room. A sizable medical operating chair stood at the center, flanked by various screens and equipment. Reina followed as Yuna laid the man into the chair before reeling back to stretch out her shoulder.


    ¡°Who¡ª?¡±


    ¡°I told you so.¡±


    ¡°What? Told me what?¡±


    ¡°They returned to the scene of the crime.¡± Yuna pointed at the man, whose body shivered.


    ¡°You¡¯re saying you captured them at the arena?¡±


    ¡°Yeah. I didn¡¯t see anyone else.¡±


    ¡°And how exactly does that prove anything?¡±


    ¡°They were, like, looking at the bloodstain and stuff.¡±


    ¡°That proves nothing! I knew I should¡¯ve gone with you. They could be a council intelligence agent, a Shinobi, for all we know.¡± Reina grumbled.


    ¡°He did put up a bit of a fight, but his movements slowed too fast and he doesn¡¯t have their lame cosplay.¡±


    ¡°Most of them don¡¯t wear such things. They¡¯re usually disguised, darnit, Yuna.¡±


    ¡°Whatever. Interrogation time. But! He defended for a solid thirty seconds. So, he has to be, uhm, something.¡± Yuna leaned in and pulled off the hood, revealing a disheveled man with a shaggy beard and long, unkempt hair past his shoulders. His eyes were open.


    ¡°Honestly, that surprised me.¡± The man spoke, startling Yuna. ¡°Guess my weak ass still remembers all that training. Kinda.¡±


    ¡°What the? You¡¯re awake?¡± Yuna cocked her arm.


    ¡°Whoa, now. No need for that.¡± He pleaded with both hands.


    ¡°How long you been conscious?¡±


    ¡°Uh. Probably since the rain?¡±


    ¡°Why didn¡¯t you struggle?¡±


    ¡°Didn¡¯t want to get punched again. Not a fan.¡± He rubbed the side of his face.


    ¡°Who are you?¡±


    ¡°Well¡­¡±


    Reina sighed, then leapt to the armrest. ¡°I don¡¯t have time for this. Let¡¯s just get an IRIS scan.¡± She shot Yuna a glance. ¡°Eye.¡±


    ¡°Huh? A cat? That¡¯s the other voi¡ª?¡± He asked. In an instant, Yuna had pressed him into the chair while stretching his left eye wide open. He offered no resistance as the cat¡¯s eyes cast a faint light onto his eye. ¡°Ow, ow, ow.¡± His eye teared up.


    ¡°Got it,¡± Reina said. ¡°Now the key.¡± Yuna withdrew while still pressing him into the chair. She then retrieved a wire from Reina-cat¡¯s neck and plugged it into the back of the man¡¯s neck. A few seconds passed. ¡°Okay.¡± Yuna returned the wire.


    ¡°Okay, sorry for hesitating. Damn. You could¡¯ve just asked. Guessing you want my name and stuff? Name¡¯s Dante. Dante Aurelius,¡± Dante said.


    ¡°Aurelius? Why¡¯s that sound familiar?¡± Yuna asked. ¡°Reina?¡±


    ¡°Decrypting still. But that¡¯s the family name of the Praetor,¡± Reina said. ¡°Are you?¡±


    ¡°Unfortunately,¡± Dante said.


    Yuna grabbed him by the throat. ¡°Is that a threat?¡± She positioned a transarm dagger a mere inch from Dante¡¯s eye.


    ¡°Wha?¡± Dante coughed as he struggled to breathe. ¡°N-no.¡± He tapped on Yuna¡¯s grasped hand.


    ¡°Calm down. Release him,¡± Reina said. Yuna exchanged a glance with her. ¡°It¡¯s fine.¡± Yuna relinquished her grip but kept the dagger pointed.


    Dante coughed as he regained his breath while distancing from the dagger as much as he could. ¡°Ahem. No need for violence, seriously.¡± Dante¡¯s face had become flushed, and eyes teary. ¡°I¡¯m an open book. Ask whatever you want.¡±


    ¡°Why¡¯d you say ¡®unfortunately¡¯?¡± Reina asked.


    ¡°A failed attempt at levity, clearly.¡±


    ¡°What do you mean?¡±


    ¡°Like, you know, sucks to be me, being part of that family.¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t understand?¡±


    ¡°Well. Long story short, they suck.¡±


    ¡°Are you really one of them? Hard to believe. They¡¯re all so stuck up?¡± Yuna asked.


    ¡°Like I said, they suck.¡±


    ¡°His ID¡¯s decrypted. It¡¯s true,¡± Reina said. ¡°Dante Aurelius. Younger brother of the Praetor. Older brother to the triplets. I know of them. How haven¡¯t I heard of you? I¡¯m already doing a search, and there¡¯s¡­¡±


    ¡°You won¡¯t find much. I keep a low profile in the physical world,¡± Dante said. ¡°Plus, I¡¯m not into surface-level net crap.¡±


    Reina sighed. ¡°What a mess. You must already know who we are, then? ¡®Physical world¡¯?¡±


    ¡°No idea who you are. And yeah. I¡¯m an ALTR devout.¡±


    ¡°The fuck¡¯s that mean?¡± Yuna inched the blade closer.


    ¡°To which?¡±


    ¡°Both!¡±


    Suddenly, a call popped up within a HUD for Reina-cat. She gestured a paw in the air.


    ¡°Val?¡± Reina asked. Dante and Yuna looked at her. ¡°Rare for you to contact this way, is¡ª.¡±


    ¡°Some serious shit is going down, Reina!¡± Val shouted. ¡°I¡¯m on my way to confirm. Scouts spotted Legionnaires marching to us. A lot. Like, a fucking absurd amount. I¡¯m sure Yuna¡¯s with you, have her open the door!¡±


    Does that cat have an IRIS? Dante thought. Well, its a talking mechanical cat so not sure why I¡¯m surprised. Now that I think of it, what¡¯s IRIS stand for, again? Shit, that¡¯s gonna bug me.


    Dante remained motionless in thought while Reina told Yuna to open the door for Val. Val soon rushed inside, out of breath. Reina-cat had returned to the monitors.


    ¡°You really should train with me.¡± Yuna patted Val on the back. Val gave her a dismissive hand wave, then approached Reina-cat. Yuna followed.


    Interactive reality immersion system, Dante thought. Wew, like an itch on the brain, gone. He looked across the room. Oh.


    ¡°Checking,¡± Reina said. The screens flashed through camera feeds until multiple angles displayed several dozen Legionnaires marching through the streets.


    ¡°Shit, it¡¯s even worst than reported,¡± Val said.


    ¡°Protocol Echo!¡±


    ¡°Understood, already got my guys on standby. Keep me in the loop.¡± Val dashed away. ¡°I¡¯ll notify Celeste right now!¡±


    ¡°The hell¡¯re those cosplaying morons doing?¡± Yuna stood behind Reina-cat.


    ¡°That looks like Nero,¡± Dante said as he approached. He had shed his coat, revealing a slim yet clearly out-of-shape physique. Reina and Yuna looked at him.


    ¡°Who the fuck¡¯s Nero, and I told you not to move.¡± Yuna brandished the dagger at Dante¡¯s throat.


    ¡°Dumb as a rock, younger brother.¡± Dante offered his hands up in a submissive pose. ¡°He sure brought a lot of them.¡±


    ¡°Good thing we have a hostage.¡±


    ¡°Could they know you¡¯re here? Are they coming for you?¡± Reina asked. Dante gave a hearty laugh, causing Reina and Yuna to exchange confused glances.


    ¡°Ah, sorry,¡± Dante said. ¡°Don¡¯t need to see your faces to know there¡¯s a dumbfounded look. Hate to break it to you, but I¡¯m a pretty useless hostage. And there¡¯s legit zero chance they know I¡¯m here.¡±

 Ch 3 - Cut First

    The screens in the basement room of the Vyxora Syndicate flickered in rapid succession. Reina coordinated an evacuation of the highrise¡¯s tenants with Val. Foot soldiers of the syndicate dash about the complex in preparation. Meanwhile, Yuna held Dante against a wall, with her knife¡¯s edge touching his throat.


    ¡°I don¡¯t believe you,¡± Yuna said.


    ¡°Yeah, no. Get that, with the knife,¡± Dante said. ¡°I¡¯m just trying to save you an embarrassing moment, honest. I can even picture it. You threatening to kill me, and Nero laughing.¡±


    ¡°Explain. Quickly.¡±


    ¡°Uhh. Short version is my family detests me, or how I live, to be more accurate. I find them all insufferably annoying, but they truly hate my guts. So, I¡¯m of little value, sorry again.¡±


    ¡°Yuna, they¡¯re getting close. I can¡¯t reach Papa; he¡¯s still in the council meeting,¡± Reina said. ¡°What should we do?¡±


    Yuna gave Dante a shove as she grunted while moving away to observe the camera feeds. She soon stood over Reina-cat, which sat dormant with a paw outstretched that appeared to be plugged into the terminal. She brought her hand to her temple and tapped. The helmet of the suit retracted into the neck. She had striking, sharp features, with snow-white hair that framed her face, and vibrant amethyst-purple eyes. Meanwhile, Dante inspected the servers in the room.


    ¡°You¡¯ve got a pretty sweet setup here. Where¡¯s your ALTR, though?¡± Dante asked.


    ¡°Praying won¡¯t do you any good,¡± Yuna said, her gaze affixed on the marching Legion.


    ¡°He surely means ¡®alternate reality¡¯, Yuna. We don¡¯t have one,¡± Reina said.


    ¡°What? Seriously? What a waste.¡± Dante lamented.


    ¡°Yuna! Your face?¡± Reina whispered.


    ¡°It gets suffocating in there. Don¡¯t worry. He¡¯ll probably be dead soon, anyway,¡± Yuna said.


    ¡°I really can¡¯t believe you don¡¯t have an ALTR.¡± Dante continued to inspect the servers.


    ¡°You better not be touching anything!¡± Reina called.


    ¡°Hey, wait, ¡®dead¡¯?¡± Dante approached the monitors. ¡°Did I hear that right? My guild¡¯s so close to a world first. I¡¯d really rather not die yet, if we could avoid that.¡±


    ¡°Yuna! Face! Face!¡± Reina said. Yuna gave no reaction as her gaze remained affixed on the Legion.


    ¡°By the way, maybe I should¡¯ve asked this earlier,¡± Dante said. ¡°Who are you guys, anyway?¡±


    ¡°Huh? You. Are you being serious? You had to of figured it out by now.¡±


    ¡°Hmm. Nope. Sorry, I got nothin¡¯.¡±


    ¡°Vyx. Reina and Yuna Vyx of the Vyxora Syndicate?¡±


    ¡°I see. Why¡¯s that sound familiar?¡±


    ¡°Wh-what?¡± Reina asked. ¡°We had a sanctioned duel with the Praetor, your brother, last night?¡±


    ¡°Oohh! Okay. A lot more things make sense now. Well, mostly.¡±


    ¡°You¡­ really didn¡¯t know? How?¡±


    ¡°I only concern myself with the physical when I¡¯m forced to. Don¡¯t take it personally. Side note, wild guess, you haven¡¯t done many interrogations?¡±


    ¡°Uhm, no?¡±


    ¡°When I play detective sims, you learn the first thing you gotta do is to restrain the suspect thoroughly. Real rookie mistake, there. Although you were hiding your faces and names, at first. Some credit there.¡±


    ¡°We¡ª. Uh. Wait. Don¡¯t you have any reaction to Yuna¡¯s, uhm, looks?¡±


    Dante had only seen Yuna in his peripheral prior. He observed Yuna for a few moments. ¡°I mean, she¡¯s not bad for a physie? I guess?¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s not what I meant¡­ ¡®physie?¡¯¡±


    ¡°You know, physical. Normal.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s it? You¡¯re not scared? Worried?¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t follow. Although, now that you mention it, I¡¯ve been rather calm. Huh. Weird.¡±


    ¡°You¡ª. Whatever. Forget it. Yuna, they¡¯re almost here, and I still can¡¯t reach Papa.¡±


    ¡°Yeah,¡± Yuna mumbled. Her eyes shone in excitement, akin to a pair of brilliant, pristine amethysts. ¡°Yeah. Maybe that¡¯ll work.¡±


    ¡°Hello? Yuna? Val says things are going well because of Mama, but¡ª, what¡¯re we gonna do?¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry.¡±


    Yuna walked to a corner of the room and dug around some equipment. She pulled out a sleek, pitch-black helmet, then put it on. It covered the entirety of her head. It looked as if it had been built from a monitor screen. She returned to Dante, knife in hand. Reina, meanwhile, conversed with Val as the feeds monitored activity throughout the building.


    ¡°You gonna walk yourself or make me carry you? Unconscious.¡± Yuna pressed the blade into Dante.


    ¡°Don¡¯t believe me, huh? Can¡¯t blame you, I guess.¡± Dante turned. ¡°Whoa, the fuck?¡± Yuna¡¯s helmet displayed an unsettling array of cosmic colors loosely forming an even more unsettling expression.


    ¡°Worst case, you¡¯ll be a meat shield. Move.¡± Yuna prodded.


    ¡°Okay, okay. No need to get stabby.¡± Dante moved to the exit while muttering under his breath. ¡°RL fucking sucks.¡± Yuna followed.


    ¡°Yuna? Yuna!¡± Reina called as the chair swiveled. ¡°What¡¯re you? You said you wouldn¡¯t wear that anymore! What¡¯re you going to do?¡±


    ¡°Protect Vyxora. Protect You,¡± Yuna said. And clear my fucking head. They exited.


    ¡°Yuna! Yuna! Dangit. This¡¯ bad. What should I do? What can I do? If only Papa were here. What could this ¡®Nero¡¯ even be thinking? They¡¯ll get severely punished if they really attack? Damnit. If I know Yuna, I have to stop her, somehow.¡±


    Reina-cat swiveled back to her screens. The Legion fast approached the base of the highrise. The building had become a chaotic mess of people moving about. Some clutched belongings as they were ushered around. Val stood at the entrance, which now had been closed off by shutters. Meanwhile, Yuna and Dante emerged from the stairs and approached Val.


    ¡°Open it, Val,¡± Yuna said.


    ¡°But¡ª,¡± Val said.


    ¡°Or I will.¡± The knife in Yuna¡¯s hand reconfigured into an axe.


    ¡°Okay, okay. I know better than to try to stop you. Just please don¡¯t be reckless and get yourself killed.¡±


    Val gently placed a hand on Yuna¡¯s shoulder. The shutters opened for Yuna and Dante to pass through. She paid no heed to Val¡¯s hand as it lingered, falling away. Then, she saw the approaching Legionnaires damaging vehicles, stalls, carts, and other property in the wake of their march. Her mask displayed a chaotic swirl of dark colors. Without turning, she reached out and pressed down on Dante¡¯s shoulder with such force that his knees buckled, and he fell to the ground. She descended the steps in a slow gait.


    You could be reading stolen content. Head to Royal Road for the genuine story.


    ¡°Ow. God damn, that smarted. Is she that strong, or am I that weak?¡± Dante said.


    ¡°Dante? Dante, can you hear me?¡± Reina asked.


    Dante clutched his ears in pain. ¡°Yes! Turn it down. Holy fuck. Ouch.¡±


    ¡°Sorry. Is that better?¡±


    ¡°Wew. Yeah. Uh, where are you, though?¡±


    ¡°My sincere apologies. I can¡¯t get through to Yuna. That abhorrent mask can block everything if she chooses. I noticed how outdated you are from your ID and used an exploit to borrow your ears. I¡¯m sorry for this intrusion, but I need your help.¡±


    ¡°Oh. Yeah, I tend to really procrastinate those.¡±


    ¡°Years.¡±


    ¡°Sounds about right. So, uh, help? Doubt I can do anything.¡±


    ¡°Look at Yuna¡¯s back.¡±


    ¡°Looking. I see an axe?¡±


    ¡°Yes. I know her too well. She¡¯s not even going to talk to your brother. In her words, ¡®cut first, ask questions later.¡¯ Can you think of something to diffuse this situation? Anything?¡±


    ¡°Not really. What could I possibly do?¡±


    ¡°Get your brother to go home somehow!¡±


    ¡°He¡¯s a serious pain in the ass to talk to. I doubt he¡¯d listen. Pretty sure, really.¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t you care if he gets killed? Because Yuna will kill him. Trust me.¡±


    ¡°Eh.¡±


    ¡°Did you seriously just shrug? You really don¡¯t care? She¡¯ll kill every one of them if she has to.¡±


    ¡°Wait. Don¡¯t you have, like, grunts and stuff? What about them?¡± Dante glanced around. ¡°You¡¯re telling me she¡¯s going solo? Against so many? Sure, I¡¯ve fought wave after wave solo, but this is RL. She seems strong, but come on?¡±


    ¡°Listen, I don¡¯t get your situation, but I assure you, as her sister, Yuna has an unquenchable bloodlust, and the skills to drown in it. The only person who can stop her is our father, who isn¡¯t here.¡±


    ¡°I mean, even if she¡¯s as scary as you say, that¡¯s a lot of Legionnaires.¡±


    Reina made guttural noises akin to growling. ¡°What if¡­ what if I were to say I¡¯m not afraid for Yuna¡¯s safety? At all? Does that make you believe me?¡±


    ¡°Heh, interesting tactic, sure. Still barking up the wrong tree, though. I¡¯m being honest with you. I legit don¡¯t care. Fuck that guy.¡±


    Reina groaned. ¡°Then what do you care¡ª! Wait. How about I show you my ALTR?¡±


    Dante jumped to his feet, albeit almost stumbling. ¡°So you were holding out on me! Could I use it a bit? My guild¡¯s gonna be so pissed with me for missing raid times. Least gotta let them know.¡±


    ¡°Uhm, sure?¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s a deal, then!¡±


    Reina breathed a sigh of relief. ¡°What¡¯s your plan? You need to hurry. Yuna¡¯s almost at the bottom of the stairs.¡±


    ¡°No idea.¡± Dante descended the steps. ¡°Gimme a minute.¡±


    ¡°Why¡¯d you sound so confident, then? And you need to be at least jogging!¡±


    ¡°Fine. This¡¯ gonna hurt.¡± Dante jogged down the steps. ¡°So, is your ALTR like, in a hidden room?¡±


    ¡°Yeah, sure. Now isn¡¯t the time! Are you going to be able to persuade your brother?¡±


    ¡°Ah, yeah. I got something. Saw it in a movie once.¡±


    ¡°What? A movie?¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry, the guy¡¯s barely got two brain cells to rub together. I got this. Can¡¯t wait to see your setup.¡±


    ¡°Right.¡± Reina sighed. This guy¡¯s so strange, but his attitude completely changed. Can he really do something? Well, not like you have time to think of something else, Reina. Dangit. ¡°I¡¯ll immobilize Yuna for a few minutes. Please get there before any bloodshed.¡±


    ¡°Can¡¯t¡­promise¡­anything.¡± Dante gasped for breaths between words.


    Meanwhile, Val had appeared at the top with the shutters closed behind her. In her IRIS HUD, she had an open call with Reina, denoted by a name and avatar.


    ¡°You know I won¡¯t be able to restrain her for long. I¡¯m talking like fuckin¡¯ seconds here.¡± Val descended the stairs in haste.


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry,¡± Reina said. ¡°I have the master key for her Aegis. I can force a reboot. It should last at least a few minutes. Just make it look like you¡¯re holding her back while you¡¯re holding her up. Please, hurry.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ve already almost caught up to this Dante guy. How out of shape is he? Is there any chance this¡¯ going to work out?¡±


    ¡°I wish I had any idea.¡±


    ¡°Reina, are you?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m fine. I¡¯m fine. It¡¯s just I should know better by now. To Yuna, this is the perfect chance to vent her frustration at not getting to fight the Praetor. I shouldn¡¯t have let it get to this point. I let my guard down.¡±


    ¡°We both know only Leon can stop her when she gets like this¡­I didn¡¯t even try. You shouldn¡¯t be so hard on your¡ª. Uh-oh. Her pace just quickened. Get ready!¡±


    The Legion marched a short distance away from the bottom of the steps. They all had similar garb to those in the arena. Nero, too, wore a stylized Aegis suit like the Praetor had. Yuna crept closer, her helmet now blank; her posture exuded an eerie calm. Alongside Nero, marching at the front, a flag bearer waved the Legionnaire emblem back and forth. Nero stopped, followed by a single fist in the air, which resulted in all ceasing their advance. Dante jogged with great difficulty behind. He didn¡¯t even notice Val a short distance away as they saw Yuna¡¯s hidden arm move.


    ¡°Oh fuck¡­ oh fuck¡­¡± Dante gasped.


    ¡°Shit,¡± Val said.


    ¡°Come grovel, Vyxora cowards!¡± Nero announced.


    Before anyone could react, Yuna dashed forward and severed the flag bearer''s arms with a clean upswing of her axe. Blood gushed forth in an arc as the force carried the arms upward, still holding the flag. She jumped back while the Legion froze in awe. After the bearer cried out, the incident dawned, and Nero unsheathed his sword while readying his shield. Just as he gestured forth, and the Legion moved in unison, Dante stumbled forth to stand in their way.


    ¡°W-wait!¡± Dante gasped while holding up his palms. Nero stopped, and the Legion followed suite at the sign of his raised shield.


    ¡°Dante?¡± Nero asked in surprise.


    ¡°Yuh¡­ yup.¡± Dante gasped for air.


    Meanwhile, Val held Yuna with both arms wrapped under hers, making it appear as if Yuna were held back. At the same time, she created distance. Then Dante felt a few droplets hit his hair. He looked up to grab one of the severed arms, purely in reaction. Once he realized what he held, he batted them toward the flag bearer.


    ¡°Ew. Uh, yours,¡± Dante said.


    ¡°What¡¯re you doing here, you useless piece of shit?¡± Nero towered over Dante.


    ¡°Mother sent me.¡±


    ¡°Mother did? Why?¡± Nero¡¯s aggressive demeanor deflated in an instant. The flag bearer cried out, to which another Legionnaire clamped a hand over their mouth.


    ¡°Before that, shouldn¡¯t you, uh?¡± Dante gestured to the bearer as they collapsed. Nero glanced over, then motioned above his head. Some Legionnaires moved the bearer away, along with the severed arms. He returned his gaze to Dante. ¡°Alright then.¡± Dante walked a few steps away, gesturing for Nero to come closer, indicating secrecy. Nero followed, albeit with a growl-like grunt.


    ¡°Speak. Now.¡±


    ¡°Of course, of course. Just didn¡¯t think the grunts should hear.¡± Dante whispered, along with another gesture. Nero bent down further in response. ¡°You know I¡¯m investigating Vigo¡¯s¡­ demise, right?¡±


    ¡°Yes. Mother finally threw your worthless ass out. So why the fuck are you here, in my way, you cockroach?¡±


    ¡°Right. Mother sent me here, but why are you here?¡±


    ¡°To avenge brother! We¡¯ll burn these cowards to the ground. Veni, vidi, vici!¡± The Legion gave a singular roar.


    ¡°Uh-huh.¡±


    So it¡¯s what I figured, Dante thought. What an idiot. Rest of the family¡¯s probably at that council meeting the Vyxora boss is at. How¡¯d this dumbass even pick up that phrase? Whatever. Careful now, don¡¯t want to sound insulting.


    ¡°So, I get why you might think the Vyxora were behind it. But, you saw on the way here, right? They¡¯re poor as dirt. This¡¯ a shitty slum.¡±


    ¡°So?¡±


    ¡°So, how would they have the cash, connections, or even balls to assassinate brother? Also, brother¡¯s death wouldn¡¯t count as a win, right? Plus, they¡¯d just have to face you, his powerful trusted second-in-command.¡±


    ¡°Did brother say that? Heheh. Hmm.¡±


    ¡°But, just in case they have any information, that¡¯s why I¡¯m here. You¡¯ve actually really helped me, and thus mother, out.¡±


    ¡°I have?¡±


    ¡°Big time! They¡¯re running around like chickens with their heads cut off, man.¡± Dante pointed to the highrise. ¡°Thanks to you, they¡¯ll be more willing to share any info now. You¡¯ve done a great service to the family and helping find out Vigo¡¯s killer. Wait a minute. Could you have planned this?¡±


    ¡°Ye-Yes. Of course. That was my plan, all along.¡± Nero boasted.


    ¡°And you succeeded!¡± His stupidity makes my own brain hurt. ¡°You¡¯ll head home now, right?¡±


    ¡°Hmm.¡± Nero glanced around, pausing at the blood splatter. ¡°Yes, but I should kill that one to make an example, right?¡± He pointed at Yuna, and Dante looked over.


    ¡°That¡¯s uh¡­ that¡¯s who was going to fight Vigo.¡±


    ¡°Perfect.¡± Nero turned away.


    ¡°Wait!¡± Dante stopped Nero, then leaned into a whisper. ¡°Surely you¡¯d¡ª. No. I know you¡¯d win, of course. But that bitch is a psycho. She won¡¯t fight just you.¡±


    ¡°What?¡±


    ¡°She¡¯ll leave a body count. You¡¯ll be able to take her, but she¡¯s really fast, you saw, right?¡± Nero nodded. ¡°She¡¯ll go after your soldiers. She¡¯s the reason Vyxora has managed to hang around for so long, you know? Sure, you¡¯d easily overpower her¡ª¡±


    ¡°Of course.¡± Nero boasted.


    ¡°But she has no honor, unlike you, brother. I saw it with my own two eyes. Three drug-addicts tried to mug her, and she killed them without warning.¡±


    ¡°Really? To cut down the weak¡­¡±


    ¡°Really. It¡¯d be one thing if she¡¯d accept a challenge, but she¡¯d never honor a proper duel.¡±


    ¡°Hmm.¡±


    While Nero paused in thought, Dante stepped aside. ¡°Thank you, great Nero!¡± Dante shouted. ¡°It¡¯s thanks to you that the cowardly Vyxora will cooperate in avenging our great Praetor!¡±


    ¡°Huh?¡± Nero turned as the Legion cheered in unison and beat their chests. Nero glanced at Dante, who gestured in gratitude. He puffed up his chest and turned to them. ¡°Yes! We are triumphant my Legion! Home! March!¡± The Legion turned in unison and marched away.


    Val watched in awe as Dante approached, chuckling. ¡°Wew. Can not believe that went so well.¡±


    ¡°Why the fuck¡¯re those cunts leaving?¡± Yuna yelled. ¡°Get back here! God fucking damnit. This fucking junk suit. Why do I still not have any fucking control? Mother fucking¡ª.¡±


    ¡°Dante, right? They¡¯re really leaving. How¡¯d you pull that off?¡± Val asked. Yuna continued to curse.


    ¡°That guy is crazy dumb. Some ego polishing, sprinkle in a few lies, and there you go.¡±


    ¡°Well, whatever you said, thanks.¡± Val lowered Yuna to the ground, lying her down with care. She then grabbed Yuna¡¯s transarms, taking time to avoid notice.


    ¡°Val? Hey! What¡¯re you doing?¡±


    ¡°It has to be done, Yuna. You¡¯ll thank me later.¡± Val stood and leaned towards Dante.


    ¡°As thanks, I¡¯m escaping behind those shutters,¡± Val whispered. ¡°And I suggest you do the same before she gets control back. Could be any second.¡± She dashed away, leaving a bewildered Dante.


    ¡°I swear I¡¯m gonna¡ª.¡± Yuna¡¯s arm moved a little. Dante followed Val in a beleaguered panic.


    ¡°Fuck¡­RL.¡± Dante gasped for air as he ascended the stairs.

 Ch 4 - Praetor

    Later that night, after the Legionnaires had long since left Vyxora territory, repair work had begun at the entrance of the highrise. A maintenance crew attempted to close the now partially open dent-riddled shutters. Most of the building had calmed, with its residents returning to their homes. In Reina¡¯s basement room, Reina-cat sat upon the chair. Yuna bent low to the ground on her hands and knees without her helmet.


    ¡°My bad, Reina,¡± Yuna said.


    ¡°Have you calmed down?¡± Reina asked.


    ¡°Yes. I might¡¯ve damaged the gate, though.¡±


    ¡°I saw you punching and kicking it, Yuna. You very much did.¡±


    ¡°Sorry.¡±


    ¡°Apologize to Val and the crew fixing it later, not me.¡±


    ¡°Okay.¡±


    ¡°Would you just get up already?¡± Reina-cat gestured a paw up. Yuna stood. ¡°I know you weren¡¯t lying about protecting Vyxora, sure, but you also saw an opportunity to vent on the Legion. The council still would¡¯ve punished us, even if we weren¡¯t the aggressors!¡±


    ¡°But¡ª.¡±


    ¡°You have to remember why it¡¯s a rule. If you created some huge, bloody mess - that can¡¯t just be brushed under the rug easily. They banned such clashes because they were causing too much attention and collateral damage back then. It¡¯s bad for business. That¡¯s what they care about, always. The bottom line. It¡¯s literally the main reason behind the duel system.¡±


    ¡°Well, yeah. I get that, but what else were we gonna do? That big dumbass was ready to raze us to the ground.¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re right, too. I honestly don¡¯t know.¡± Reina paused. ¡°Without¡ª.¡±


    ¡°Really though.¡± Yuna walked forward, picked up Reina-cat and hugged her, then lifted her into the air by the arms. ¡°I sometimes worry you know the mind of a psycho like me far too well. It¡¯s conflicting.¡± She smiled as she turned while still holding Reina aloft, then stopped at the sight of Dante. He sat in a corner of the room, on the ground, with his knees pulled to his chest while thumping his head against the wall and muttering. ¡°What?¡± She looked into Reina-cat¡¯s eyes.


    ¡°As I was about to say. I don¡¯t know what we would¡¯ve done without him.¡±


    ¡°What¡¯s that supposed to mean?¡± Yuna cradled Reina and walked over to Dante. ¡°Hey dumbass, why didn¡¯t you run away?¡± She kicked Dante. He gave no response.


    ¡°Quit it, Yuna!¡± Reina scampered to Yuna¡¯s shoulder. ¡°Leave him alone. He¡¯s the reason they left.¡±


    ¡°What, really?¡± Yuna withheld another kick. ¡°I guess I kinda remember seeing him. Why¡¯s he still here, though? Could¡¯ve gone with them. And why¡¯s he like, whatever he¡¯s doing?¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s my fault,¡± Reina lamented. ¡°I lied to him.¡±


    ¡°About?¡±


    ¡°That I had an ALTR.¡±


    ¡°Okay?¡±


    ¡°It was how I got him to help. Just a desperate gamble that somehow worked.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m lost.¡±


    ¡°From things he said, it seemed like ALTR was incredibly important to him. He must be one of those people who spend almost every waking moment in there.¡±


    ¡°People do that?¡±


    ¡°Yes. There¡¯s constant debate about it being an epidemic.¡±


    ¡°Bah. RL¡¯s so limited,¡± Dante said. ¡°Old ass physies just don¡¯t understand the unlimited potential of ALTR. It¡¯s the future of humankind.¡±


    ¡°Dante! I sincerely apologize for lying to you.¡±


    ¡°Ehhh.¡± Dante returned to sulking.


    ¡°Hey.¡± Yuna pulled Dante to his feet by his collar with ease. ¡°Reina¡¯s talking to you.¡± She glared.


    ¡°Whatever.¡±


    ¡°You son of a¡ª.¡± Yuna cocked her arm.


    ¡°Yuna, knock it off. Settle down, please.¡± Reina pawed at Yuna¡¯s face. Yuna grumbled as her arm fell to her side.


    ¡°Typical dumbass physie, resorting to violence,¡± Dante mumbled.


    ¡°What was that?¡± Yuna pinched Dante out of Reina¡¯s vision.


    ¡°Ow!¡± Dante rubbed his side. ¡°Holy fuck, that hurt. Are you a gorilla?¡±


    ¡°A what?¡± Yuna leaned in. Dante grimaced as he met her gaze. Reina¡¯s head darted about in confusion.


    ¡°Hey, uh. Your face¡­¡± Dante said. Yuna withdrew slightly while Reina looked at her. A moment passed. ¡°Familiar? Nope, it¡¯s gone. Thought I had something.¡± Reina breathed a sigh of relief.


    ¡°I really am sorry for lying to you,¡± Reina said.


    Dante sighed. ¡°I¡¯ll get over it. Think I¡¯m having withdrawals, though, to be honest. Definitely longest I¡¯ve been away.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ve read about that. So you really do spend all your time in ALTR?¡±


    ¡°Yeah. I gotta give you credit, Ms. clever kitty. You figured out the one thing to persuade me to talk to rocks for brains.¡±


    ¡°I truly apologize.¡±


    ¡°I get it. Probably would¡¯ve done the same in your position. Thinking back, I said some things, but I didn¡¯t make it that obvious I was a devout Vir, maybe?¡±


    ¡°¡®Vir¡¯? I think I¡¯ve seen that. Short for virtual, right? Because ALTR addicts spend all their time¡ª?¡±


    ¡°¡ªin a virtual world, yep. It¡¯s a lame joke we use as if we¡¯re part of a religion. You know, ¡®ALTR¡¯. Anyway, I¡¯d rather not return to pre-Nero, if possible. Especially with Yuna, was it? Her glare says more pain¡¯s on the way. I¡¯d like to take the initiative here and say let¡¯s have a sit-down to exchange information while clearing the air.¡±


    The trio agreed with nods. Yuna returned Reina to her chair. Dante dragged a chair over and sat. Then, Yuna¡¯s Aegis suit retracted from neck to toe into the back portion. She backed into a device on the nearby wall. It grabbed the suit while disconnecting ports at the base of her neck. She wore a light tank top and shorts. She stepped away as she stretched.


    ¡°Whoa. I¡¯ve only seen muscles that well-defined in ALTR games,¡± Dante said. ¡°You look straight out of one of my favs, Primeval¡ª¡±


    ¡°¡ªHunters?¡± Reina asked.


    ¡°Hell Yeah! You know it?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ve played the non-ALTR version. Without even realizing it at first, my avatar actually looks like Yuna.¡± Reina giggled.


    ¡°Ha. She¡¯d fit in! You¡¯ve really got to try the ALTR version; it¡¯s on a whole ¡®nother level. Gets pretty intense when¡ª.¡± Yuna kicked her chair before sitting, then glared at Dante. ¡°Right. Another time. So, full disclosure, I don¡¯t have much useful information. Ask away, though. Open book, honest, nothing to hide. Hell, don¡¯t even have reason to hide anything.¡±


    ¡°Why¡¯re you still here?¡± Yuna asked. ¡°You could¡¯ve escaped with your brother, no?¡±


    ¡°I wondered that too. Did you really stay just to see an ALTR setup?¡± Reina asked. ¡°Still kinda hard to believe.¡±


    ¡°I did. Hmm. Remember how I said I was useless? I wasn¡¯t blowing smoke. I¡¯ve been exiled, you could say.¡±


    ¡°Exiled? From the Legionnaires?¡± Yuna asked.


    ¡°My house, technically. I¡¯m not really part of them.¡±


    ¡°But your brother¡¯s the Praetor?¡± Reina asked.


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    ¡°Was,¡± Yuna said.


    ¡°Yuna!¡±


    ¡°Ha. Don¡¯t worry. Fuck that guy, too. Was so god damn obnoxious,¡± Dante said. ¡°Order this, honor that. Blah blah blah. Anyway, my family certainly leads the Legion. However, I really only did tech stuff for them here and there. They left me alone in return.¡±


    ¡°You don¡¯t care he¡¯s dead?¡± Yuna asked.


    ¡°Not really. That¡¯s how I got the boot, though. When my mother told me, I think I gave a nonchalant dismissal? I assume, at least. Don¡¯t even remember what I said or did, had a raid to get to. She flipped out. Big time. Next thing I know, I¡¯m pretending to be a detective in that smelly arena. Longish story short, if I don¡¯t find out who killed the ¡®Praetor¡¯, I¡¯m never getting back to my room; to my ALTR.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s¡­¡± Reina said.


    ¡°That¡¯s seriously the reason you were there?¡± Yuna laughed.


    ¡°Yuna!¡±


    ¡°Nah, it¡¯s alright. Even I can recognize the humor in it, as depressing as it is for me.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s just¡­¡± Reina failed to quell a giggle. ¡°It¡¯s so ridiculous that I wouldn¡¯t believe you without your behavior up till now. I¡¯ve already lost count how many times you¡¯ve mentioned game stuff.¡± She let out a laugh for a moment until the sound ceased from the cat.


    ¡°What can I say? I could go into a philosophical diatribe but at the end of the day, I just wanna game. Alright, I have little else to share, unfortunately. But I resisted until now and it¡¯s eating at me, and I gotta ask. Why¡¯ve I been talking to a cat?¡±


    ¡°None of your fucking business.¡± Yuna threw a dagger, which stuck to the bit of visual chair between Dante¡¯s legs. After a delayed moment, Dante reeled back from the edge, almost toppling over.


    ¡°Yuna!¡± Reina chastised. ¡°Would you quit being so rude? Retract.¡± Yuna grumbled as, with a slight flick of her wrist, the dagger reeled back into her hand via a wire. Reina-cat turned to Dante with a slight bow of it¡¯s head. ¡°Apologies, Dante. If she hasn¡¯t made it painfully obvious, Yuna¡¯s openly hostile to new people.¡± She glared at Yuna. ¡°No matter how many times it gets her into trouble.¡± She turned back. ¡°Although, it begs the question, how don¡¯t you already know? At least a guess? It was only last night that the fate of our families¡¯ territories were on the line? It¡¯s not exactly a secret of her many altercations.¡±


    ¡°Oh. Uh. Right,¡± Dante said. ¡°I¡¯m usually only called upon to research, er, how do I say this¡­ bigger fish?¡±


    ¡°Does that mean you know nothing about Vyxora?¡±


    ¡°Nope. Never heard of ya, no offense.¡±


    ¡°What?¡± Yuna growled as she stood.


    ¡°I said no offense.¡± Dante pleaded with his hands.


    ¡°You fu¡ª¡± Yuna kicked her chair aside.


    ¡°Rainbows!¡± Reina said. Yuna exchanged a glance with her. Then Yuna clicked her tongue as she turned and exited the room. Dante¡¯s eyes widened at the sight of a plethora of scars on her body, revealed by the lighting as she left.


    ¡°Sorry, again.¡± Reina sighed.


    ¡°What, uh, just happened?¡±


    ¡°Yuna has a short fuse.¡±


    ¡°Understatement. She bipolar or something?¡±


    ¡°Shh. She has exceptional hearing. You should really think more before talking.¡±


    Dante rubbed his neck. ¡°You¡¯ve got me there.¡±


    ¡°To her credit, though, she recognizes her fuse and trained herself to step away if I call out that phrase.¡±


    ¡°¡®Rainbows¡¯?¡±


    ¡°Yes.¡±


    ¡°Can¡¯t help but think there¡¯s a story there. Heh. That¡¯s kinda neat. Is she always so, er?¡±


    ¡°Intense? No, actually. But, she¡¯s on edge much, much more because of last night. You have no idea how much she was looking forward to it.¡± Reina paused. ¡°Oh. I¡¯m sorry. That was insensitive. I¡ª¡±


    ¡°Because my brother¡¯s dead? Seriously, you really don¡¯t have to worry about stepping on my toes here. I¡¯ma take a guess here that its hard for you to understand. Even in the short time I¡¯ve been here, you two seem crazy close. But, I¡¯m just not that attached to my family. Rest of ¡®em could drop dead for all I care.¡± Then I could get my stuff back. As if I¡¯d be so lucky.


    ¡°Anyway, not sure I follow?¡± Dante asked. ¡°Shouldn¡¯t you two be more relieved, if anything? She seems pretty tough, sure, but The Legion didn¡¯t grow to such size by losing. Yet, Praetor¡¯s dead. Threat averted.¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re right. I can¡¯t understand your¡­ indifference,¡± Reina said. ¡°To answer your question, it¡¯s hard to explain quickly, but trust me that it was solely our decision to accept the duel. Your brother¡¯s combat prowess was a significant ¡®why¡¯.¡±


    ¡°If I take your word for it, which I do, she likes fighting that much? Despite the risk?¡±


    ¡°To be honest, I have trouble comprehending it myself. ¡®A warrior¡¯s spirit¡¯. That¡¯s how our father puts it. Yuna has an unflinching drive to fight beyond protecting Vyxora. She seeks worthy opponents, like the Praetor seemed.¡±


    ¡°Huh? No kidding? In the modern era?¡±


    ¡°You know what I¡¯m talking about?¡±


    ¡°Sure, I¡¯ve played characters like that in games, so I¡¯m pretty familiar with the concept. Those were historical games mostly, though. Can¡¯t say I thought those types might still exist. At least when it came to The Legion, my brother seemed to always pick fights he¡¯d win. Is Vyxora a lot bigger than I thought?¡±


    ¡°No, it¡¯s little more than this building. We don¡¯t expand.¡±


    ¡°Why?¡±


    ¡°Papa¡¯s decision, it¡¯s complicated.¡±


    ¡°Fair enough. So, I¡¯ve got to bring it up again. You¡¯d think I¡¯d be used to talking to not-humans from all that I¡¯ve played, but it¡¯s still a little weird to experience IRL. Cat?¡±


    ¡°Oh, yes, we got off-topic, my apologies. I¡¯ll spare you the details, but I have a rare affliction and am confined to my bed. Lots of machines. The only way I can interact with the outside world is this.¡± Reina-cat brought a paw to her chest.


    ¡°Well, damn, that sucks. What about physie maintenance?¡±


    ¡°What?¡±


    ¡°Eating, bathroom, that junk.¡±


    ¡°Uhm, the machines handle that.¡± Reina mumbled as she looked away.


    ¡°Kinda envy you.¡±


    ¡°¡®Envy¡¯?¡± Reina turned back, the cat¡¯s ears perked up.


    ¡°Would be the perfect excuse to ALTR all day, every day. Also, physie maintenance fuckin¡¯ blows. Constant pain in the ass. Hate it so much, if you can¡¯t tell from my looks.¡± A brief silence ensued. ¡°Would be pretty sweet.¡± Reina broke out in laughter, startling Dante.


    ¡°But ¡®envy¡¯?¡± Reina quelled her laughter. ¡°I¡¯ve never thought I could hear something like that said about me.¡±


    ¡°Hm. It occurs to me I probably sounded like a real asshole just now. Should¡¯ve kept those thoughts to myself. Insensitive doesn¡¯t even really cut it, here, does it?¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s fine. Better than the pity I usually receive. So ridiculous. May I ask, are games really that important to you? I play occasionally to take my mind off things, but you?¡±


    ¡°Oh, yeah.¡± Dante¡¯s face lit up with excitement. ¡°I get to live out entire lifetimes on any given day. I¡¯ve been countless professions, explored countless worlds and so, so much more. ALTR makes regular gaming a joke in comparison. Considering your situation, it¡¯s a downright crime you haven¡¯t experienced.¡± Dante rambled on enthusiastically about games for a short time until Yuna returned.


    ¡°I¡¯ve calmed down.¡± Yuna sat in her chair.


    ¡°Welcome back,¡± Reina said. ¡°Did you¡ª?¡±


    ¡°No lame jokes.¡± Yuna glared. Reina-cat looked crestfallen. ¡°I¡¯m guessing I didn¡¯t miss anything important? You shared nothing unnecessary, did you, Reina?¡±


    ¡°No.¡± Reina mumbled. Her gaze shied away.


    ¡°You.¡± Yuna pointed at Dante. ¡°Reina has a tendency to share more than she should, especially if it¡¯s in defense of me. So, did she?¡±


    ¡°Not that I recall.¡± Dante appeared unfazed by her glare. I wonder what complications there would be getting her set up. His gaze drifted to Reina-cat. A brief silence passed.


    ¡°Dante. How did you convince Nero to leave?¡± Reina said. He gave no response. ¡°Dante?¡±


    ¡°Hmm?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ll admit, I¡¯m curious too, now,¡± Yuna said. ¡°He didn¡¯t flinch after my first strike. Maybe he would¡¯ve put up a bit of a challenge?¡± Dante gave no response. Yuna stomped her foot once. ¡°Hey.¡±


    ¡°Oh,¡± Dante said, snapping from thought. ¡°I¡¯m not real sure. Nero sparred with Vigo, a lot, I think? Maybe?¡±


    ¡°You don¡¯t know?¡±


    ¡°Ehh, didn¡¯t really keep apprised of such things.¡±


    Yuna sighed. ¡°Well, they seemed ready to raze Vyxora to the ground. What¡¯d you say?¡±


    Dante retold the encounter with Nero, albeit in a shoddy and succinct fashion, having forgotten parts. This resulted in a short back and forth between the three for clarifications.


    ¡°Okay uh, he wanted to leave only after killing Yuna, so.¡± Dante loosely recited what he had said about Yuna. He then felt an immense pressure emanate from her and, in haste, followed up. ¡°Just made some stuff up, you know?¡±


    ¡°Yuna. You didn¡¯t?¡± Reina faced Yuna.


    ¡°Hey, hey, no! Sure, those idiots tried to jump me again, so they¡¯d totally deserve it. But, I only knocked them out! I swear.¡± Yuna glared at Dante. ¡°Right?¡±


    ¡°Well, I couldn¡¯t see, so I can¡¯t swear to it. And they were quiet,¡± Dante said, feeling Yuna¡¯s gaze. ¡°But she said something about hands, so they probably weren¡¯t dead. I just tweaked the story to convince Nero. I meant nothing I said.¡±


    ¡°Right, right. Good job. And I said they were lucky I don¡¯t cut thieves¡¯ hands off anymore.¡±


    ¡°Fine, I¡¯ll trust you,¡± Reina said. ¡°Kind of hard to believe that really worked on your brother, though.¡±


    ¡°I really can¡¯t overstate how dumb he is,¡± Dante said.


    ¡°True. The fact he even thought he could do something like this without severe punishment from the council speaks volumes. Could the rest of your family all be at the meeting?¡±


    ¡°Probably.¡±


    ¡°So, who¡¯s going to take over as Praetor, then?¡± Yuna asked. ¡°Clearly not you.¡±


    ¡°If I had to guess, all three, maybe? Augustus is alright. Constance is legit awful but they¡¯re both fairly intelligent. Constance takes after my mother and can manipulate the other two with ease. You could argue my mother¡¯s the true Praetor in the first place, though.¡± Dante sighed. ¡°In hindsight, I really should¡¯ve stopped being lazy and just moved my stuff to a shack somewhere. Wouldn¡¯t be in this mess then. Man, they suck.¡±


    ¡°Which one would handle a sanctioned duel?¡±


    ¡°Nero, maybe? Likely?¡±


    ¡°You were able to last a bit against me, despite¡ª,¡± Yuna gestured at Dante, ¡°that sad excuse for a body. The ox should be able to last awhile, right?¡±


    ¡°Sure?¡±


    ¡°No offense, it¡¯s hard to imagine you lasting as long as Yuna said. Did you really?¡± Reina asked.


    ¡°I was a good little soldier early in life. Took a knee injury. Found ALTR. Rest is history.¡±


    ¡°Do you think pops will come back with a new duel date?¡± Yuna looked at Reina.


    ¡°Highly unlikely. Keep your expectations in check,¡± Reina said. Yuna grumbled.


    ¡°So, we kind of got off-topic, a lot. I¡¯m guessing you have no more info on the actual assassin and junk than I do. Which is nothin¡¯. Right?¡± Dante asked.


    ¡°Unfortunately, you¡¯re correct. I¡¯ve been scouring social media, message boards, news outlets and whatever else. Even darker places of the net are shockingly all baseless speculation with nothing tangible. None of my connections or contacts have given me anything yet. Somehow, as crazy as it seems, we¡¯re all in the dark. I get that the big news outlets wouldn¡¯t even acknowledge it, but for there to not even be credible threads underground? It¡¯s unsettling. There¡¯s so little information that the initial chaos has done a complete one-eighty and now the prevailing consensus is it didn¡¯t even happen.¡±


    ¡°Where¡¯s the Praetor¡¯s corpse, anyway?¡± Yuna asked.


    ¡°Yuna!¡±


    Dante shrugged. ¡°Dono. Council took it, I think. Mother wasn¡¯t happy, I¡¯m told. Though it is how I was even allowed to check out the scene¡­ not that I found anything.¡±


    ¡°Oh yeah, was wondering how you got past security.¡± Yuna yawned.


    ¡°My time was probably almost up when you nabbed me. They were gonna start tearing apart the place.¡±


    ¡°What¡¯re you going to do now?¡± Reina asked.


    ¡°That¡­ is a good question.¡±


    ¡°Yuna, could you please show him to the recovery room? Please don¡¯t argue. He has nowhere to go, at least for tonight, and I¡¯m tired.¡±


    ¡°Wh¡ª¡± Yuna yawned. ¡°Fine.¡± She yanked Dante to his feet, dragging him by the collar to a room adjacent to the maintenance room. She shoved him in as the light turned on.


    ¡°Thanks. Hadn¡¯t even thought about sleeping arrangements,¡± Dante said.


    ¡°Reina¡¯s too kind. I don¡¯t have to¡ª,¡± Yuna yawned, ¡°to make any threats, right?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ve got an active imagination.¡±

 Ch 5 - Aegis Industries

    One skyscraper in Lyrsium towers above the rest where grandiose letters mingle with the clouds, ¡®Aegis Industries¡¯. Atop this behemoth resided an extravagant conference room with beautiful, hand-crafted woodwork. Over a dozen individuals sat around an immense table. Some were physically present, while others were holographic projections. At the head sat a man who looked in his fifties. Everything about him appeared pristine. He wore a perfect-fitting tailored suit. He had well-groomed, short, feathered auburn hair without a single strand out of place, and a clean-cut beard following his jawline. His faded blue steely gaze observed the others bickering amongst themselves.


    ¡°This is utter nonsense,¡± bellowed a man.


    ¡°Who cares about some bottom-feeder¡¯s brains blown out?¡± snarled a woman.


    ¡°The ¡®bottom-feeder¡¯ was wearing an Aegis suit. Our Aegis suit,¡± chided another.


    ¡°This¡¯ a disaster.¡±


    ¡°Do we really even know this information is factual?¡±


    ¡°How¡¯s this even possible? It¡¯d be one thing if it was without a suit, but with?¡±


    ¡°Maybe it¡¯s just a hoax by BioMach to tank our stock?¡±


    ¡°Fool, what do they have to gain? It¡¯d hurt everyone, especially our competitors, not only Aegis.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s unprecedented.¡±


    ¡°No shit, sherlock. This might be the first ranged death to a suit-wearer that had their helmet up.¡±


    ¡°What¡¯re we gonna do? What if some news outlet tries to push it out to the public?¡±


    ¡°Would you listen to yourselves? It¡¯s embarrassing to hear department heads, board members and branch presidents ramble like scared children! We have President and CEO Weihelm. Humanity¡¯s ¡®Aegis¡¯!¡± a man said. He gestured to the man at the head of the table.


    ¡°I¡¯m telling you, BioMach ain¡¯t got the resources to pull this shit off while keeping it under-wraps. I bet it¡¯s those Argonix fucks.¡±


    ¡°Again, this doesn¡¯t benefit our competitors, either. How about you two rub more than one brain cell together?¡±


    ¡°Shut your¡ª¡±


    ¡°Cease,¡± Weihelm said. His stern, clear tone rang throughout. All other speech stopped in abrupt fashion and they turned toward him. ¡°Artemis.¡±


    A woman who sat nearby stood up. She wore a white chic blouse with slim black pants, appeared in her early forties and, like Weihelm, seemed as if she had meticulously placed every hair. She had medium-length blond hair with white streaks that framed her sharp-featured face. The vibrant green of her eyes stood in stark contrast to the chilly demeanor she exuded.


    ¡°Yes, President Weihelm,¡± Artemis said. A few of the others grumbled under their breath. She looked at the center of the table. ¡°Esteemed board members, I request you desist with any further discussion. Please, hold further questions until I am finished.¡±


    ¡°Do not interrupt,¡± Weihelm said.


    ¡°We have word of preliminary findings.¡±


    Artemis tapped at a watch-like device around her wrist. The room¡¯s lights dimmed and a photo-realistic projection of the Praetor appeared above the table. Within only her vision, her IRIS HUD showed a virtual keyboard at her lower peripheral along with various GUI elements in augmented reality. A miniature model of the same Praetor projection also displayed in her IRIS. The large projection reoriented in response to her hand movements manipulating the smaller, as well as some taps on the keyboard.


    ¡°We instructed they were not to perform any intrusive investigation. Despite its additional aesthetics applied, they provided a serial number. This confirmed authenticity of the suit. It is an Aegis. They could not observe any modifications to the suit itself without a dismantling. Therefore, until we conduct our own autopsy, we will move forward with the assumption it has not been altered. As you can observe, a projectile of unknown origin pierced a current generation Aegis suit. Its firing apparatus remains unknown.¡± The projection moved about to illustrate the hole from front-to-back of the Praetor¡¯s head.


    ¡°Furthermore, it subsequently penetrated the skin, skull and exited the other side with extraordinary damage inflicted. By all accounts, this was a singular bullet fired. There is currently no evidence of any further incidents at this time. Nothing has been found of a perpetrator. Our own teams have been dispatched to take over the location. Furthermore, they¡¯ve taken possession of the body by now. Rest assured, we shall exhaust our resources to their fullest with this investigation.¡± Weihelm tapped his fingers twice on the table.


    ¡°Esteemed board members,¡± Artemis announced. ¡°Out of respect for your positions, we have informed you of the current situation, and determined your continued participation to be unnecessary at this time. You are all hereby placed under strict orders to await additional information while maintaining silence on all that you have learned. To be absolutely clear, so there is no room for interpretation - you will be terminated should you fail to comply with this mandate. We will provide updates as we deem necessary. You are excused.¡±


    The Praetor disappeared as light again filled the room. Board members scoffed and grumbled as projections disappeared while the others exited the room without contest. Weihelm¡¯s unflinching gaze ensured none even glanced in his direction. When the last left, he stood, then proceeded to the nearest window overlooking Lyrsium. Artemis remained preoccupied for a time, typing in the air, which reflected on the keyboard in her IRIS.


    ¡°Viktor, are you sure it was wise to dismiss the board entirely?¡± Artemis tapped away.


    ¡°You well know half of them are useless sycophants,¡± Viktor said. ¡°They behaved as expected, scared schoolchildren unaccustomed to crisis. The few that didn¡¯t behave like spoiled brats aren¡¯t worth the fat of the rest. I¡¯m sure I need not say more.¡±


    ¡°Of course.¡±


    ¡°Artemis. Is there any possibility of this being an elaborate hoax or fraud of some kind?¡±


    ¡°No.¡±


    Viktor sighed. ¡°My apologies for such a moment of weakness. As ever, your candor is a tonic.¡±


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    ¡°Accepted.¡±


    ¡°Thank you. Despite my best efforts, perhaps I, too, have dulled from complacency. You don¡¯t last as long as I have without the occasional stormy seas. Even though I foresaw the possibility of such a day, I¡¯d grown sure the wind would warn me. It¡¯s undeniable I¡¯ve been consumed with Project Avalon. Did I miss something? How is it that Aegis¡¯ flagship is now threatened by a wholly unknown force, Artemis?¡±


    ¡°I lack sufficient data to comment at this time.¡±


    Viktor chuckled. ¡°I expected that, yet asked anyway. Only twenty or so years have passed since we changed the world overnight.¡± Artemis gripped her wrist so much so that her hand trembled. ¡°It is our responsibility to ensure the stability of that change. Our stewardship must be uncompromising. On the cusp of Project Avalon¡¯s unveiling, we mustn¡¯t falter.¡±


    ¡°Agreed.¡±


    ¡°You understand. Appreciated. Aegis Industries is at your disposal.¡± Viktor stared intensely at the city below. ¡°I will smother any private concerns should they arise. I trust you with the rest, Artemis.¡±


    ¡°Of course, Viktor.¡± Artemis moved to exit the room.


    ¡°Do not forget, Aegis¡¯ legacy is at stake. Project Avalon is so close to revolutionizing us again.¡± Viktor reached out an open palm toward the city while Artemis left. My legacy. His hand closed into a fist.


    The moment the door to the conference room closed as Artemis entered a hall, a man appeared, trailing a step behind her. Unlike Artemis, he had a disheveled appearance. His clothes were simple, loose, and unassuming, obscuring his build. He slouched, had unkempt shaggy brown hair, a thin beard, and dull brown eyes. They walked without a word. The hall matched the extravagant conference room. They soon reached an office with immense wooden double doors. An empty secretary¡¯s desk sat to the side where a nameplate read ¡®John Tolra¡¯. The man opened the doors with such haste that Artemis¡¯ stride continued unabated inward. The extravagance of the office would rival a palace. Atop a grand desk sat an engraved plaque ¡®Artemis Vigard | Chief Operations Officer | Vice-President¡¯. As the doors closed, she let out an exhaustive sigh. Then, the moment the man turned to her, his entire demeanor changed. His posture straightened as he strode to a cabinet. His movements were sharp, militaristic.


    ¡°It went as expected,¡± Artemis said. She lowered herself into an exquisite chair. ¡°Both the pitiable behavior of the board and his smoldering rage beneath.¡±


    The corner of Artemis¡¯ lips upturned ever so slightly as she raised her hand. In almost the same moment, the man slid a glass half-filled with a pristine clear liquor into her grip. She sipped at it while he moved into a kneeling stance a few steps away. She looked to shelves lined with awards and plaques. Her gaze grew increasingly distant as it drifted to a digital picture frame at the heart of the shelves. A young boy wearing an oversized lab coat exuded a profound glee while presenting a peculiar object to a young blond girl with green eyes.


    ¡°¡®Legacy,¡¯¡± Artemis whispered with a light guttural growl. What a farce. Finally, Aleksandr. His suffering will finally begin. She closed her eyes and took a swig. Then she looked to her side and sighed.


    ¡°Aelfric, how many times must I tell you to stop that when here?¡± Artemis snapped her fingers at a chair opposite her. ¡°It¡¯s been how many years?¡±


    ¡°My apologies, Lady Artemis.¡± Aelfric sat upright in the chair as instructed.


    ¡°Have the council ended their meeting yet?¡±


    ¡°Yes. They again requested I pass on their expressed remorse for not notifying us sooner. They failed to hide their clear contempt, however.¡±


    ¡°They long for the days when they only answered to themselves. How have they responded to our competitor¡¯s requests?¡±


    ¡°They claimed to have rebuked them.¡±


    ¡°Expected. They¡¯ve likely shared everything by now, then. Anything else of note?¡±


    ¡°Their duel system has been suspended.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s unexpected they could reach that conclusion so soon.¡±


    ¡°Is this an issue?¡±


    ¡°No. Merely expected the chaos to result in more disarray. Such a unilateral decision is likely to cause a great deal of discord in their ranks. I thought they would only suspend after the next.¡±


    ¡°Does this impact our timeline, Lady Artemis?¡±


    ¡°Perhaps.¡±


    ¡°They also requested we allow them to participate in the eventual manhunt.¡±


    ¡°Is that so? I suppose they haven¡¯t obtained their positions by behaving like Aegis¡¯ board to crisis. I admit to some curiosity about how they¡¯ll handle the morning.¡±


    ¡°Have you decided then, Lady Artemis?¡±


    ¡°Yes. Proceed with Foxtrot.¡± Artemis glanced to her window. The peaks of other corporate skyscrapers poked into the horizon. ¡°Alpha-G.¡±


    ¡°Understood.¡± Aelfric stood.


    ¡°I¡¯m sure I need not say more?¡±


    ¡°No, Lady Artemis. I¡¯ve ensured the preparations.¡± Aelfric moved to one knee, bowing his head with his arm across his chest. He then moved to exit the room.


    ¡°Aelfric.¡±


    Aelfric came to an abrupt stop at the doors and turned. ¡°Yes, Lady Artemis?¡±


    Artemis glanced at Aelfric, then her eyes darted to the picture on the wall. ¡°Nevermind.¡±


    Aelfric nodded, then exited. Artemis downed the remainder of her glass. Then, after mere minutes had passed, Aelfric reached a heliport on the roof. The turbines of a sizable autonomous drone spun in place. It had a sleek exterior with ¡®Aegis Industries¡¯ branded upon it. Its door retracted, revealing a luxurious interior. His gait possessed no wasted movement as he strode within. As soon as he sat, the doors closed, and the drone took off into the city below. Similar drones taxied their patrons about between the towers of neon advertisements. After a short time, the drone landed atop a dilapidated warehouse building. He exited, descending into the warehouse as the drone returned to the sky.


    The warehouse appeared empty save for a modern semi-truck with an unmarked, standard large trailer attached. Aelfric walked along a catwalk above, tapping away at a watch-like device on his wrist along with his IRIS until reaching the trailer. He leapt below to its roof, barely making a sound as he landed. He proceeded through a hatch that had slid open. Lights illuminated an inside that stood in stark contrast to its outer shell. It looked as if someone had ripped an engineering lab from a building. At the front, a grand machine occupied all the surrounding space, from edge to edge. It held aloft the back of an Aegis suit. Aelfric approached a locker. With care, he removed his entire face and hair, revealing a significant difference beneath. He had jet-black short hair, amber eyes, and a cleanly shaven face. He stripped, placing his clothes with great care into a locker alongside his facial disguise. Then he slipped on a form-fitting jumpsuit, which adhered to every contour of his athletic, muscled physique.


    Aelfric approached the machine, and a monitor projected as he did. The screen displayed ¡®Aegis¡¯ with various model numbers listed. As he touched the screen, it changed to ¡®Argonix¡¯, with a similar listing. After pressing one, the machine sprang to life. The Aegis suit receded into the machine, and after a few moments, a different suit shifted into place. Aelfric backed into it and with a click of the port on his neck, a suit deployed across his body. Aesthetically, it appeared quite different from the Aegis. Soon after, he exited the trailer. Mere moments later, the truck drove out of the warehouse.


    Meanwhile, in the underground arena where Yuna¡¯s duel with the Praetor had taken place, many people moved about. Bright lights illuminated the entire area as they searched every inch of the area. The arena floor behind where the Praetor once lay had been dug up. Two men continued to dig while another watched. One¡¯s shovel entered the ground in a peculiar way, as if hitting a pocket.


    ¡°Hey! Think I¡¯ve got something,¡± one man yelled. A moment later, the arena went pitch black.


    ¡°The hell?¡± the other man asked. They stood in silence until a commotion emanated from the entrance of the area. ¡°What¡¯s going on?¡±


    ¡°How should I know?¡± the man standing above them called.


    ¡°Whatever, just give me some damn light. You want to risk someone else getting the credit, moron?¡±


    ¡°Oh, shit. How¡¯s this?¡± The other man shined a light produced from his wrist while the man dug with his hands.


    ¡°Good enough¡­ almost got it.¡± A brief time passed. ¡°The fuck? How¡¯s there liquid here?¡± The man stopped as the light abruptly disappeared.


    ¡°How unfortunate,¡± Aelfric said.


    ¡°Who the¡ª?¡± No further sound came from the man.


    ¡°My sincerest apologies,¡± Aelfric whispered. ¡°It seems I miscalculated time. Please find some solace that your sacrifice serves a greater purpose.¡±


    A short time passed as numerous shouts filled the area. Sources of light projected about to and fro in a mad search until the area¡¯s lights returned. Over a dozen individuals lay unconscious, strewn about from the entrance towards the arena. Within the hole, one remained unconscious, while the other lay on their side against the dirt wall. Blood trickled from a precise slit along their throat into a pool. Their chest, too, bore a precise wound.

 Ch 6 - ALTR

    Mid-morning, the next day, in an apartment on the highest floor of the Vyxora highrise, Yuna lay sprawled out face-down on a bed. Blankets and sheets half-covered her in chaotic fashion. She wore a lightweight tank-top and loose shorts. Sunlight streamed into her room, revealing a mess of clothes strewn about. The room comprised a wardrobe, a mirror, and a trash can. Outside of various frames on the walls that displayed posters, some moving, for television shows, there were few other decorations or objects.


    Yuna stirred with an audible sniff. In a slothful manner, she slid off the bed onto her knees, then stood in a daze. She drifted out into a large room. In stark contrast to her somewhat barren room, the home exuded a cozy warmth throughout. A digital fireplace crackled along a wall while a television screen projected onto another, displaying a muted weather channel. Furniture, decorations and other amenities conveyed consistent upkeep. A slender woman with golden brown hair tied up flitted about a sizable kitchen. Nearby, Dante sat at a dining table in obvious discomfort, fidgeting. The table had breakfast and the relevant wares set upon it.


    ¡°Your father just got home, so it¡¯ll be ready soon, hun.¡± the woman called.


    ¡°Sweet,¡± Yuna yawned, ¡°Mom.¡±


    A nervous Dante watched Yuna approach in a semi-stumbling daze, rubbing her eyes. A short distance from the table, she noticed him and, in an instant, became fully alert. Before he could even blink, she held a transarm dagger to his eye.


    ¡°The fuck¡¯re you¡ª!¡± Yuna shouted. Suddenly, even with a plate of bacon in one hand, her mother slapped her dagger-holding hand. The dagger fell into the table and, like a hot knife through butter, slid into it, stopping only at the hilt.


    ¡°Language,¡± Mom chastised. Yuna looked at her in disbelief, rubbing her hand.


    ¡°Mom, do you even know this guy¡¯s an Aurelius? The family that leads those Legionnaire assholes!¡±


    ¡°What did I just say?¡± She placed the plate down, shifting others aside.


    ¡°Ugh.¡± Yuna grunted and clicked her tongue.


    ¡°Of course I know, hun. Reina caught me up. You kidnapped him, least I can do is feed him.¡±


    Dante, meanwhile, broke from a brief stupor, glancing between them as they bickered back and forth. The mother evoked a picturesque maternal vibe, albeit her face had a distinct sharpness to it, he thought. He glanced at the disheveled Yuna, then observed the dagger from the side of the table.


    Where was she hiding that? Dante glanced between the dagger and Yuna.


    ¡°Shush already and sit.¡± The mother shoved a piece of bacon into Yuna¡¯s mouth. She sat with a grunt, glaring at Dante as she nibbled. ¡°I hope our guest has an appetite. I might¡¯ve overcooked. Dante, hun?¡±


    ¡°Huh? Oh.¡± Dante looked up from the dagger to her. ¡°I, uh, don¡¯t really eat actual food that much, Mrs. Vyx.¡±


    ¡°I told you, Celeste is fine. What d¡¯ya mean, ¡®actual food¡¯, hun?¡± Celeste asked.


    ¡°Well, I can get the necessities from pills and supplements. Sometimes an IV. Food food would cut into my ALTR time. Plus, food tastes better in ALTR, anyway.¡±


    ¡°Hmm. Reina said you were a strange one. You sure you¡¯re getting enough, hun? You¡¯re looking quite malnourished to these eyes. Dunno much about this ¡®ALTR¡¯, but let¡¯s see if I can change your mind.¡±


    Celeste had a warm smile as she returned to the kitchen. Meanwhile, while still nibbling, Yuna stealthily retrieved the dagger from the table. Dante glanced back, noticing its absence. Then he felt a sudden substantial weight on his shoulder. He saw from the corner of his eye an immense hand, and had it not been holding him in place, he would¡¯ve jumped in surprise, having not heard so much as a step prior.


    ¡°Repair,¡± said a deep, gravely voice.


    ¡°God damnit.¡± Yuna swore under her breath.


    ¡°This is?¡±


    ¡°A guest. Dante Aurelius. Dante, meet my dear husband and their father, Leon Vyx,¡± Celeste slid more plated food onto the table.


    ¡°¡®Aurelius¡¯?¡± Leon sat in the chair next to Dante.


    Dante looked over to see who the huge hand had belonged to. He saw a bear of a man. His mere presence exuded a pressure, conveying a lifetime of hardship. He had short, clean-cut black hair with gray streaks and a similar goatee. A profound scar ran across his deep-set eyes and nose.


    ¡°Yeah pops, get this, Mom f¡ª,¡± Yuna coughed, ¡°invited the enemy to our breakfast table!¡± She chewed more bacon.


    ¡°Your daughter kidnapped the poor boy. Least I can do is fill his belly.¡± Celeste sat next to Yuna.


    ¡°I had my reasons.¡± Yuna paused. ¡°Good ones, too.¡±


    ¡°Doubt,¡± Leon said.


    ¡°They were¡­¡± Yuna sulked.


    ¡°Aurelius?¡± Leon asked. In his left, he held his plate aloft as Celeste filled it while in his right, he moved Dante with ease, to get a better look. ¡°I¡¯ve met. They¡¯re¡­¡±


    ¡°Insufferable asses?¡± Dante asked.


    ¡°Language,¡± Celeste scolded. To his own surprise, Dante reactively gave a slight apologetic head bow.


    ¡°Unpleasant. Yes,¡± Leon said with a slight chuckle.


    ¡°Syrup?¡±


    ¡°Please.¡±


    ¡°That might be the nicest way it¡¯s ever been said, uh, sir.¡±


    ¡°Leon.¡±


    ¡°Plate, hun.¡± Celeste snapped her fingers at Dante.


    ¡°Oh. Thanks.¡± Dante handed her his plate. Meanwhile, Yuna had become preoccupied, eating voraciously yet avoiding making a mess.


    ¡°So?¡± Leon asked before eating.


    ¡°It can wait dear, I¡¯ll handle it,¡± Celeste said.


    ¡°Reina?¡±


    ¡°Despite a lot happening, our other troublesome daughter only went to sleep a bit ago. She stayed up all night monitoring the situation. She passed out right after catching me up.¡±


    ¡°Hm.¡±


    A short time passed until Yuna stopped in abrupt fashion, her mouth half-full as she spoke. ¡°Hey, wait a minute, the duel? Don¡¯t leave me hanging pops, what¡¯s going to happen?¡±


    ¡°Yuna, don¡¯t talk with your mouth full,¡± Celeste scolded.


    ¡°Finish.¡± Leon gestured to her plate.


    ¡°C¡¯mon, seriously?¡± Yuna grumbled. She made eye contact with Leon, then wolfed what remained on her plate. After another minute, Leon finished and stood up, walking opposite Dante. Leon outstretched both arms, beckoning Yuna to him. ¡°You were only gone a day.¡± He beckoned again. ¡°Fineee.¡± She embraced Leon for a moment, but as she pulled back, he squeezed and lifted her off her feet.


    ¡°What¡¯re you¡ª¡± Yuna squirmed as Leon held even tighter. This drew Dante¡¯s attention, as he had been surprisingly enjoying the meal.


    ¡°Suspended,¡± Leon said.


    ¡°God fucking damnit. Mother fucking pieces of¡ª. Are you fucking serious?¡± Yuna thrashed about, swearing nonstop. Despite her great disadvantage, Leon¡¯s grip loosened. She then head-butted him hard enough for both to recoil, yet he held on.


    ¡°Spar,¡± Leon said. The effects of Yuna¡¯s actions with a full belly set in. She stopped swearing and went limp, to which he set her down. ¡°Missed. Twice.¡± He withdrew. Yuna let out an exhaustive breath.


    ¡°You sure you¡¯re going to be able to keep up, old man? I¡¯m pretty fu¡ª¡±


    ¡°Ahem.¡± Celeste coughed.


    ¡°¡ªupset.¡±


    ¡°Rested,¡± Leon said.


    Yuna laughed. ¡°So glad I¡¯m banned from those snooze fests. You¡¯d think a cabal of ¡®scary¡¯ underworld leaders wouldn¡¯t be a bunch of boring bureaucrats.¡±


    Stolen content alert: this content belongs on Royal Road. Report any occurrences.


    ¡°Mother.¡±


    ¡°I was getting to it.¡± Yuna turned to Celeste, who had a warm smile. ¡°Sorry for the swearing, Mom. Great grub, as always. Thanks.¡±


    ¡°Of course, hun. Now, I know you¡¯re upset, but don¡¯t overdo it. Val will be watching with hose privileges,¡± Celeste said.


    ¡°Can you at least tell her to use the warmer one?¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t make her use it, and it wouldn¡¯t cool you down as much.¡±


    Yuna clicked her tongue as Leon walked away. ¡°That jokes still not funny, no matter how many times you say it.¡± Celeste chuckled. Yuna caught up with Leon and gave him a playful bump. ¡°Don¡¯t think I didn¡¯t notice you stumble, old man.¡±


    ¡°Hm,¡± Leon grunted.


    ¡°I¡¯ve been practicing my headbutt. Admit it, you¡¯re impressed,¡± Yuna boasted. The pair left.


    ¡°You¡¯re looking a bit lost, hun,¡± Celeste said as she cleared the table.


    ¡°Oh. Uh,¡± Dante said.


    ¡°Disoriented by my peculiar family?¡±


    ¡°Well.¡±


    Celeste chuckled. ¡°I know from Reina you¡¯re already familiar with Yuna¡¯s temperament. You¡¯d be shocked though if you knew how many times that trick has worked on her. Girl¡¯s got a short fuse, but an even shorter memory. She also only says ¡®sorry¡¯ when she really means it, otherwise it¡¯s ¡®my bad¡¯ or silence. She¡¯s troublesome, but in a good way. My husband, meanwhile, takes some getting used to for folks. To say he speaks succinctly will sound like an understatement.¡±


    ¡°Yeah, uh. I really couldn¡¯t follow, felt like I had selective hearing.¡±


    ¡°Heh. You get a feel for it, after a while. For example, ¡®Reina?¡¯ was him saying ¡®Where¡¯s my precious Reina, why isn¡¯t she here like always to welcome Papa home?¡¯. Or like when he said ¡®Missed¡¯ was ¡®I¡¯m sorry, my darling daughter, for being unavailable and missing our sparring the last two days.¡¯¡±


    ¡°All that?¡±


    ¡°I might¡¯ve embellished a little.¡± Celeste had a sly grin. ¡°He¡¯s got an ancient injury, though. Starts to feel pain after stringing together more than a few words.¡±


    ¡°Really? Damn.¡±


    ¡°Not that you asked, but you¡¯ll have to forgive me in advance if I over-share, hun. You¡¯ll quickly find I say far too much about them. Are you finished?¡±


    ¡°Ah, yes.¡± Dante¡¯s plate had a third remaining. ¡°Sorry for not finishing it all. Might be hard to believe with my figure, but I overate to get to even that. It was so good. This¡¯ the most physie food I¡¯ve eaten in¡­ can¡¯t even remember.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s okay hun, I piled too much. Our strays will thank you. Your mother never cooks?¡±


    Dante laughed. Celeste had a perplexed look. ¡°Definitely not. I literally can¡¯t picture such a scene.¡±


    ¡°I see. Coffee?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ll have to pass. Not sure how it might sit with me.¡± Dante watched Celeste continue to clean up. ¡°Oh, uh, should I help? That¡¯s something guests offer to do, right? Happens in shows a lot¡­¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s fine.¡± Celeste chuckled. ¡°Are you into television shows? What kinds?¡±


    ¡°Not a lot, but I dabble all over genres.¡±


    ¡°If you happen to like any Yuna has, surefire way to distract her hostility.¡±


    ¡°Oh, yeah? Which ones?¡±


    ¡°Let me see. Which one did she have me watch again? ¡®Hidden Garden¡¯?


    ¡°Oh, uh, those.¡± That is super hard to believe.


    ¡°Anyway, sit tight and relax. I¡¯ll be done shortly. We have things to discuss.¡±


    ¡°We do?¡± Dante watched in silence. ¡°Oh, I almost forgot to say thanks, Celeste.¡± He felt an unfamiliar warmth in his chest at the sight of Celeste¡¯s smile and nod. After a short time, she sat.


    ¡°So. You really are as odd a duck like Reina conveyed,¡± Celeste said.


    ¡°Er, did I do something weird?¡± Dante asked.


    ¡°Nah, hun. Well, okay, Reina¡¯s pretty detailed, so you did more than a few things that could be considered ¡®weird¡¯ in her recap. I know about everything since you were kidnapped. Apologies on behalf of my daughter, again.¡±


    ¡°Eh.¡± Dante shrugged. ¡°Kinda did me a favor. I only realized this after I woke up this morning, but yesterday I hadn¡¯t even given a thought to where I was going to sleep.¡±


    Celeste chuckled. ¡°On that subject, you don¡¯t have anywhere to go, do you? I¡¯ve decided you can stay at Vyxora, long as you need.¡±


    ¡°Huh? All of a sudden? Really?¡±


    ¡°Sure, hun. You¡¯re an outcast, after all. And just in case it needs to be said, you¡¯re free to come and go as you please.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s¡­ but my family¡ª?¡±


    ¡°Like I said, Reina shares everything with me. Which means I¡¯m aware you know nothing of Vyxora. Our entire reason for being is sheltering outcasts. You don¡¯t have to say anything if you don¡¯t want to. We can work out other details later.¡±


    ¡°Hm. Alright, er, thanks?¡±


    ¡°How¡¯s your ear, by the way? I can be a little rough, having Yuna as a daughter.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s,¡± Dante rubbed his reddened ear. ¡°alright.¡±


    ¡°I can be a little too forceful. You¡¯ll get used to it. I did think you¡¯d need a meal, but I also have an ulterior motive.¡±


    Dante scratched his beard. ¡°Can¡¯t imagine what you¡¯d want with me? Especially since Reina shared all? To be honest, this entire experience is a bit surreal for me. I¡¯m already fuzzy on the details.¡±


    ¡°Heh. If you¡¯re wonderin¡¯, yes, you said more than a few strange things that stuck out to Reina. Particularly, your lack of panic.¡±


    ¡°Yeah¡­ not real sure how I¡¯ve been so calm, honestly.¡±


    ¡°There¡¯s something, however, that I want to know more about. Forgive my ignorance, as while I¡¯m competent, I¡¯m an old hand when it comes to technology overall. Can you tell me more about ¡®ALTR¡¯?¡±


    ¡°ALTR? Not like stuff about the Legion and my family?¡±


    ¡°As I said, none of my business, unless you want it to be. Will you tell me all about ALTR? I¡¯m curious.¡±


    ¡°Sure. Now, where to start¡­¡± Dante went into enthusiastic detail about the adventures, experiences and life he lived in the world of ¡®alternate reality.¡¯ ¡°Lot of this is really difficult to convey properly though, I realize, as I¡¯m saying it. Just really doesn¡¯t do it justice.¡±


    ¡°Your passion¡¯s plain as day. ¡®Envy¡¯ was it? You said of Reina?¡±


    ¡°Oh, uh, well, that was stupid of me, I¡¯m¡ª¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry. We had a good laugh, and it¡¯s why I¡¯m talking to you right now. You see, my daughter¡¯s shockingly stubborn when it comes to sharing how she feels. So, regardless of how insensitive your comment was, she loved not being pitied for once. I can tell. My dear Reina¡¯s also a workaholic, despite her condition. She plays an occasional game or talks with her family, but otherwise spends all her time worrying about Vyxora.¡±


    ¡°Is she, like, an information broker or something?¡±


    ¡°Picked that up, huh, hun? Not as simple as that, but yes.¡±


    ¡°Seems way too nice, though. Pretty weird when I think about it.¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t get me ramblin¡¯, hun. Let¡¯s just say she¡¯s good at compartmentalization. Anyway. I worry for her greatly. I¡¯ve failed to give her any meaningful distractions, and she needs an outlet. Worst, if she¡¯s stressed, she hides it very well. I¡¯d be hard-pressed to even remember her complaining. About much of anything. She¡¯s adored as a princess here, yet her only real friend is Yuna, and her parents, kinda.¡± Celeste paused in thought. ¡°I think I¡¯ve already said more than I should¡¯ve and went off rails. Please keep this between us?¡±


    ¡°Sure?¡±


    ¡°Ahem.¡± Celeste smiled. ¡°ALTR. What I¡¯ve been getting to is, will you help me introduce Reina to it? Please?¡±


    ¡°Whoa. Unexpected. Hrm, just to clarify, you know I shunned my family for ALTR, right?¡±


    ¡°Yes.¡±


    ¡°Okay, just wanted to make sure. As you might¡¯ve guessed by now, it¡¯s pretty addictive to most. It¡¯s not uncommon for people to abandon their real lives, to be frank. Truthfully, though, I almost blurted out to her myself, ¡®ALTR is for people like you!¡¯ So I¡¯ve been thinking about how I could get her to try it.¡±


    ¡°You thought that? Even in your situation? Why? Isn¡¯t last night your first meeting?¡±


    ¡°Yeah¡­ I recognize I¡¯ve got a screw lose, but have no intention of fixing it. For why, I dunno, just sharing of a passion, maybe?¡±


    Celeste laughed. ¡°At least you¡¯re honest, hun. Vyxora doesn¡¯t judge. It¡¯s kind of our whole creed.¡±


    ¡°Maybe I should thank Yuna for taking me. Starting to feel like I fell backwards into some luck. Kind of hard to believe you guys exist.¡±


    ¡°No. That girl doesn¡¯t need further ego boosts.¡± They shared a laugh. ¡°So, what do we need to do for this ¡®ALTR¡¯? I did some brief searching, but it¡¯s a lot to take in.¡±


    ¡°Yeah, about that. It¡¯s become a competitive space, with several paths, you could say. There are different entry points into the ALTR-verse, too. But Reina¡¯s health is the biggest obstacle.¡±


    ¡°Wait, is this dangerous?¡±


    ¡°Ah, no. Well, it can be. But that¡¯s only if you risk garbage equipment or rush certain things. What I meant is her condition will determine the required gear. I¡¯ve heard doctors have to be involved in some circumstances. I might even have friends in such situations, but wouldn¡¯t know about it. In many circles, mine included, we don¡¯t even acknowledge physie life.¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re not filling me with confidence, hun.¡±


    ¡°Sorry. I need more information. I don¡¯t mind doing a deep dive into research, but¡ª¡±


    ¡°Oh. That reminds me. Hold that thought, hun.¡± Celeste moved into a side room briefly, then returned with a tablet in hand. ¡°Hand.¡± She presented the tablet to Dante, grabbed his wrist as he reached out and placed it on the screen. ¡°Our Reina¡¯s got a tight leash on security. It¡¯ll be done in a moment. She already has your retinal scan.¡±


    ¡°Uhh.¡± Dante had a bewildered look as Celeste returned to the room. A short time later, she came back out and handed him a thick card.


    ¡°Hot off the printer. This lil¡¯ card will work only with your thumb at the center. You just swipe it at that terminal near your bed and you can search to your heart¡¯s content. Reina thought you might need some access to the web. You¡¯re ¡®limited, of course¡¯. Her words.¡±


    ¡°Oh, thanks. Never seen something like this.¡± Dante marveled at the card. ¡°Did she create this?¡±


    ¡°Her idea, yep.¡±


    ¡°She¡¯s kinda amazing, huh? The cat?¡±


    ¡°Her idea too. Just you wait. She¡¯s wast¡ª¡± Celeste stopped. You shush now, Celeste. ¡°If you want more details on how it works exactly, you¡¯ll have to ask her. Bit over my head. Anyhoo, continuing on, what do you need to know about her condition?¡±


    ¡°Right, well, you must know, she told me a little. If I know what she has, I can use that to look into what we¡¯ll need.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s some kinda device, right? Hooks into yer neck?¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s the starting point. You lack control with portable hardware, however. Uhm, I¡¯ve never really had to explain this.¡± Dante glanced around, then paused at the sight of a window. ¡°Ah. You¡¯re more like a spectator with that type. My home rig, for example, is as heavy duty as it gets. My latency is¡ª¡± Dante rattled off a great deal of jargon until realizing Celeste¡¯s eyes had glazed over. ¡°Er, sorry about that. Still with me?¡±


    ¡°Huh? Ah, yes, my bad hun. You lost me.¡±


    ¡°My fault. The short of it is, need to know her physical condition to explore our options for hardware needed.¡±


    ¡°Well, why didn¡¯t you say so earlier?¡± Celeste stood up and beckoned. ¡°C¡¯mon.¡± Dante followed her to a room at the end of a hall. It slid open without a sound as she approached.


    ¡°Wait, are you bringing me to her room? Isn¡¯t she sleeping?¡± Dante whispered.


    ¡°It¡¯s a lot easier to show you than trying to explain it. Her condition is¡­ complicated.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ve never been in a girls¡¯ room, but isn¡¯t she not going to not like being seen sleeping?¡±


    ¡°You¡¯ll find my daughter¡¯s easier to ask for forgiveness than permission. Plus, we¡¯re keeping this project under wraps until I say otherwise. Understood?¡± Celeste flashed an icy glare at Dante, sending a shiver down his spine. To him, she seemed like another person for a moment, and he nodded on instinct.


    Dante entered the room. He froze at the sight. It looked nothing like the rest of the cozy home, instead appearing as if they had entered a high-tech laboratory he¡¯d seen in one of his games. Servers lined metallic walls, chilled air blew throughout and it appeared otherwise barren except for a chair and something where he¡¯d expected the bed to be. Images of cyro chambers Dante had seen in movies and shows flashed in his mind, like those often present in spaceships. The chamber melded into the floor and wall, obscuring what lay within. Celeste beckoned him closer, to which he inched forward in hesitation. The glimmer of glass appeared at its head.


    ¡°I probably shouldn¡¯t allow this¡­ but I get to show her to so few people,¡± Celeste whispered as she caressed the glass. ¡°I know I¡¯m her mother and all, but tell me she isn¡¯t a sight for sore eyes?¡± She signaled for Dante to come closer. He displayed apparent reluctance, but curiosity won out as he peered in.


    Fragile, Dante thought. The word felt like such an apt description for Reina. She had long bluish-black hair, profoundly soft features and even paler skin than himself.

 Ch 7 - Deadly Embrace

    The next morning, in the basement of the Vyxora highrise, Yuna stood over a sleeping Dante. He lay motionless above the covers of the bed, with a wire running from his neck into a wall port. A nibbled-at food tray sat upon a nearby table. She prodded him with a shove. No reaction. She then gave a few light taps to his cheek and again, no reaction. She wound up before slapping his cheek hard.


    ¡°Ou¡ª!¡± Dante shouted. Yuna muffled his mouth with her other hand. She leaned in close as his eyes darted awake. They soon fell upon the tip of the familiar dagger that pressed against his cheek. He felt her oppressive gaze.


    ¡°Mom said you can stay here. Fine. She and Reina are always taking in strays. But I want you to know I don¡¯t trust you,¡± Yuna said. ¡°If you¡¯re ever alone, assume I¡¯m watching. If you have any ulterior motives, I will find out. And know that if you give me reason, any reason, to doubt you, I won¡¯t hesitate to gut and flay you alive. Understood?¡±


    ¡°Mmhm.¡± Dante nodded.


    ¡°Good.¡± Yuna withdrew. As she did, she noticed how red Dante¡¯s cheek had become. She licked her thumb and rubbed his cheek with it. ¡°My bad, overdid the slap a bit. Wake up faster next time.¡±


    ¡®Next time¡¯? Dante thought.


    Yuna approached the door, and it slid open to reveal Celeste about to knock, with a plate of breakfast in her other hand.


    ¡°Mom?¡± Yuna asked, startled.


    ¡°Yuna? What¡¯re you doing?¡± Celeste asked.


    ¡°Nothing, just a friendly wake-up call. If you¡¯ll excuse me, Reina¡¯s waiting.¡± In haste, Yuna averted her gaze while attempting to slip past. As she did, Celeste gave her a light thwack on the back of the head.


    ¡°Ow, what was that for?¡± Yuna glanced back.


    Celeste strode in, and as the door closed, spoke. ¡°Don¡¯t threaten our guests.¡±


    ¡°How does she always fuckin¡¯ know?¡± Yuna swore under her breath as she rubbed her head.


    ¡°Yuna!¡± Reina called.


    Meanwhile, Celeste approached Dante, who rubbed his cheek.


    ¡°That girl, I swear. Are you alright, hun?¡± Celeste placed the plate and her swift movement to Dante¡¯s side startled him as she inspected his cheek. ¡°What¡¯d she do?¡±


    ¡°Uhhhh,¡± Dante mumbled.


    ¡°Not gonna tattle, hun? Even though, knowing her, she threatened your life?¡±


    ¡°I, uhm.¡±


    ¡°Hmm.¡± Celeste had a warm, gentle smile that caused Dante to fidget. ¡°I see. Well, apologies for my daughter all the same. She¡¯d do anything to protect Vyxora, as would I.¡± He felt a shiver as he met her gaze. ¡°Oops, that sounded like a threat. Sorry, hun.¡± She chuckled as she withdrew. ¡°Anyway. I see you barely touched your dinner?¡±


    ¡°Ah, yeah. What time is it?¡±


    ¡°Eight a.m.¡±


    ¡°Oh.¡±


    ¡°When you¡¯d go to sleep?¡±


    ¡°Seven, maybe?¡±


    ¡°Oh my. Are you a night owl like my Reina?¡±


    ¡°I tend to sleep based around my raid times.¡±


    ¡°Yer what?¡±


    ¡°Er, nevermind. Very odd hours though, yes, I guess.¡±


    ¡°Hun, did ya pass out? Yer still plugged in.¡± Celeste gestured to the wire.


    ¡°Must have. Kinda fell down a rabbit hole.¡±


    ¡°You what?¡±


    Dante sat up and unplugged the wire. It receded into his neck. ¡°Research. When I get on the hunt for something, I can¡¯t stop till I find something to scratch that itch.¡±


    ¡°Wait a minute, have you been researchin¡¯ since¡ª?¡±


    ¡°Since I left your home? Yeah, pretty much.¡±


    ¡°Yer not supposed to sacrifice your health for this, ya darn fool!¡±


    ¡°Huh? No, no. This is normal for me. Like I just said, once I get sifting through sites, forums, comments, posts, etcetera, I gotta keep going until I find what I¡¯m looking for.¡± Dante noticed Celeste¡¯s worried expression. It caused an unfamiliar sensation. ¡°Really, I¡¯m fine Mrs. Vy¡ª. Celeste. I¡¯m used to this.¡± He gestured with palms open, unsure of his own behavior.


    ¡°Hmm.¡± Celeste observed.


    ¡°Anyway, I have good and bad news.¡±


    ¡°Already? ¡®Good and bad¡¯, you say?¡±


    ¡°Yeah. Bad news is, there¡¯s not enough money in it so no companies have made proper adapters. However, the good news is, several hobbyists have been able to retrofit ALTRs to work with similar situations.¡± Dante slipped into an enthusiastic jargon-filled tangent, explaining what he discovered. After a bit, Celeste stopped him.


    ¡°Hold it, hun. You¡¯ve completely lost me.¡±


    Dante noticed Celeste¡¯s glazed look. ¡°Ah, bad habit. To summarize, it¡¯s possible. Though, some bad news I kind of forgot¡­ I¡¯m not really much of a tinkerer. I might¡¯ve jumped the gun.¡±


    ¡°Whattya mean?¡±


    ¡°Kinda, maybe, ordered a bunch of equipment already. It¡¯s dawning on me now that I¡¯m not equipped for this. Especially with the risks involved.¡±


    ¡°¡®Risks¡¯? Are you sayin¡¯ this could be dangerous for my Reina?¡±


    ¡°Well, of course. ALTR is pretty sophisticated tech that intercepts signals from the brain. It has several safeguards but¡ª¡±


    ¡°Nevermind, hun. You can drop it.¡± Celeste shook her head.


    ¡°Wait, wait! I just meant I¡¯m not capable.¡± Dante shifted his legs off the bed. ¡°If we can find a skilled engineer of sorts, they can make the modifications with minimal risk.¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t know¡­¡± Celeste paced.


    ¡°Does Vyxora employ or work with any? What about whoever made that cat? They¡¯d have the skills, for sure.¡±


    ¡°Oh. Of course. Them.¡± Celeste lingered.


    ¡°They should also be able to alleviate any of the doubts I just created, hopefully, assuming they¡¯re familiar with ALTR.¡±


    ¡°Hmm, I suppose. They¡¯re a right pain in the behind, though.¡±


    ¡°Like, troublesome to deal with?¡±


    ¡°Understatement, hun. Will they really be able to ensure Reina¡¯s safety?¡±


    ¡°Well, I can¡¯t guarantee, but shouldn¡¯t you at least hear it from them instead of me?¡±


    Celeste sighed. ¡°Hmm. I s¡¯pose. They do adore Reina, even viewing her as a granddaughter. They¡¯d let me know, surely? But still¡­¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s already too late to cancel the orders, but I can handle all the returning, if you decide not to. But, uh, like, oh! I know. You should see some testimonials from people in similar situations. Let me show you some comments and videos. Hold on.¡±


    Celeste glanced at Dante as he hurriedly plugged back into the wall. ¡°I know I put you up to this, hun, but I clearly didn¡¯t give it enough thought. Nor did I think it¡¯d happen so quick. I let myself get swept up in the excitement of finding something for my Reina. However.¡±


    ¡°Just chill. Er, I mean, hold that thought, alright? I bookmarked a bunch.¡± At a frantic pace, Dante¡¯s eyes flickered as a paused video appeared on a nearby monitor. Additional windows popped up of social media and forum comments.


    ¡°Why¡¯re you so gung-ho about this, hun?¡± Celeste approached.


    ¡°A day without ALTR is a wasted day.¡±


    Celeste opened her mouth to speak but stopped as she watched more and more windows flood the screen. Is the boy just this passionate, or something else? He really must¡¯ve been at it for nigh twenty hours.


    Dante outlined many comments praising the effect ALTR had on similarly incapacitated individuals. After playing a heartfelt video, Celeste wiped her eyes and placed a hand on his shoulder.


    ¡°Alright, you got me. You get some sleep now. I¡¯ve got baking to do,¡± Celeste said.


    Without another word, Celeste guided Dante with ease into his pillow, unplugged him, and tucked him into bed. By the time he registered what had happened, she stood at the door. The lights went out.


    The narrative has been taken without authorization; if you see it on Amazon, report the incident.


    ¡°I¡¯ll see you later.¡± Celeste exited.


    ¡°Is¡­ feels... like¡­ mother?¡± Dante mumbled as he drifted into sleep.


    Meanwhile, in the adjacent room, Yuna did squats while the monitors changed in rapid succession above. Reina-cat sat in the chair. Celeste dashed past.


    ¡°Sorry Yuna, hun, no lunch today.¡± Celeste left the room.


    ¡°Huh? Mom was still here?¡± Yuna stopped and turned.


    ¡°Mama¡¯s here?¡± Reina asked.


    ¡°She¡¯s gone already.¡±


    ¡°Probably was discussing her project with Dante.¡±


    ¡°Her what?¡±


    ¡°After she told me she invited him to stay, she said he¡¯d be helping her with some project. Wouldn¡¯t tell me what it was and that it¡¯s a ¡®surprise.¡¯¡°


    ¡°The hell¡¯s she thinking? What could she want help with from him? Does she really not care he¡¯s from those Legion clowns?¡±


    ¡°Did you forget how he helped us?¡±


    ¡°And what if that was all a scheme? His eyes are shifty and his behavior¡¯s suspicious. I don¡¯t trust him.¡±


    ¡°¡®Shifty?¡¯¡± Reina giggled. ¡°You think everyone not-Vyxora is planning something. You watch too many shows and, more often than not, they¡¯re just intimidated by you. Anyway, even if I have my doubts, you know no one can judge character better than Mama.¡±


    ¡°Yeah¡­ still, I won¡¯t let my guard down. Whatever. Why¡¯re you up so early?¡±


    ¡°I got an alert from a broker. I¡¯m trying to find out if anything else has leaked now.¡±


    ¡°You¡¯ve been sleeping too little, Reina. How many hours have you even slept the last few days?¡±


    ¡°I know, I know. But you don¡¯t get how crazy things are right now. The darknet¡¯s filled with all kinds of insane speculation and rumors. Everything from a simple assassination to a world war inducing event.¡±


    ¡°A war? C¡¯mon Reina, seriously? It¡¯s just a dead gang leader.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s not as outlandish as you might think, Yuna. Sure, war hasn¡¯t been profitable for decades, especially for major powers. But! If a corporation or government had a massive technological edge over their rivals? They might talk themselves into using it.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s¡­¡±


    ¡°Scary. However, it¡¯s also highly improbable for a bunch of reasons. The least of being, there hasn¡¯t even been another incident yet.¡±


    ¡°My brain¡¯s not equipped for such talk.¡± Yuna rubbed her temple. ¡°What¡¯s so important that you¡¯re sacrificing sleep?¡±


    ¡°Oh. Right, sorry, I didn¡¯t say, did I? The other night, not long after you were there, the arena was attacked, and supposedly, something¡¯s been found. Rumor is, it¡¯s the weapon. So far it¡¯s unconfirmed, though.¡±


    ¡°Are you telling me I could¡¯ve seen some real action if I hadn¡¯t kidnapped that guy?¡± Yuna lamented.


    ¡°And then what would¡¯ve happened with Nero?¡± Reina chastised.


    ¡°Ah. Good point.¡±


    Later that day, a groggy Dante followed Celeste out into the basement hall, past Reina¡¯s empty terminal. They each held a sizable food container, those often used for sweets or casseroles.


    ¡°How far is it?¡± Dante stumbled along drowsily.


    ¡°Elevator. You¡¯ve walked past it, hun,¡± Celeste said.


    ¡°There¡¯s an elevator? What? To where?¡±


    ¡°Re-purposed underground parking lot. Only place for our most troublesome tenants. Hurry along now, there¡¯s a prime time for this.¡±


    ¡°¡®Prime time¡¯? Huh?¡±


    ¡°The Nezins hold their daily competition soon. The best time to ask for a favor is after one wins. It¡¯s a small window.¡± Celeste sighed. ¡°They really are such pains. If we¡¯re lucky, we¡¯ll get there during the match.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m very lost.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯ll make more sense soon.¡± They entered an elevator. ¡°I s¡¯pose I should prepare you a bit. Time¡¯s short. To put it plainly, Elias and Sophia Nezin are geniuses. Temperamental, pain-in-the-behind and trouble-making, geniuses. Elias built Reina¡¯s cat, while Sophia built the sparrow. They¡¯re in a constant state of quarreling and a never-ending competition with each other, ever since they were kids. They made a wager on who could stack up five wins over the other first. That was fifty years ago, supposedly.¡±


    ¡°Uh. Wow.¡±


    ¡°Ridiculous. Very. It¡¯s hard to believe, I know. Should give you an idea of who we¡¯re dealing with. But long story short, their competition got themselves fired and eventually blackballed by most of the corps in Lyrsium. They ended up here. Admittedly, a fitting place for outcast geniuses.¡±


    The elevator stopped, and as the doors opened, the pair witnessed a bizarre sight. A wall divided the area, except for an enormous glass cube embedded halfway. It appeared to be an arena of sorts, as two robotic creatures several feet high battled within. They looked like variants of the ancient Tyrannosaurus Rex. On the left side, an elderly man stood behind a blast shield with a controller. The man had a fastidious appearance, with a dapper suit and well-groomed hair. On the right, an identical sight for an elderly woman. She had a wild appearance in contrast, with a greased up jumpsuit and long gray hair flowing every which way.


    A miniature missile battery unloaded from the back of the left T-Rex. The barrage of explosions inflicted severe damage on the right. As it fell, it chomped through the midsection of the left. Then, small humanoid figures ejected from the heads of the T-Rexes. They looked like simple toy action figures. After landing, the left pulled a bazooka from its back and fired a plastic-looking projectile. After traveling midway to the other, it exploded as a beam of energy cut through. The explosion obfuscated the entire cube while the beam incinerated the left figure. It had fired from the right¡¯s chest. The man whipped his controller into the ground, smashing it into pieces.


    ¡°Okay, Sophia won. Which do I have?¡± Celeste peaked in her container. ¡°Here.¡± She swapped containers with the stunned Dante. ¡°Crazy sight, I know. They¡¯re always competing in different ways. Fifty years is a long time. Move along now. Just politely give Elias those sweet treats, so he¡¯s distracted while I give Sophia these salty ones.¡± She shoved him towards Elias, then moved toward Sophia at a brisk pace.


    Dante stumbled and for the first time took in the rest of the area as he walked toward a wallowing Elias. It became obvious the parking area had long since been transformed into an extensive workshop. Tools, scraps, machinery, terminals, and countless half-finished projects littered the area, albeit in an organized manner. Elias shouted obscenities as he kicked the blast shield, then winced in pain.


    ¡°I should¡¯ve known, old fool! Thought you¡¯d get the jump on her, eh? Dumbass,¡± Elias grumbled. ¡°How long you been hiding that tech, Soph! Damn you! I was so close!¡±


    ¡°No, ya weren¡¯t, you old fart!¡± Sophia yelled. ¡°You just got lucky the last few days. Another week and I¡¯ll end this once and for all!¡± Above the cube, on both sides of the wall, a grand digital counter displayed the numbers ¡®17,738 - 17,741¡¯. The ¡®17,738¡¯ incremented to ¡®17,739¡¯.


    ¡°In your dreams, hag! Just you wait until tomorrow.¡±


    ¡°Ha! You¡ª¡± Sophia stopped as she noticed Celeste only a short distance away. Her side of the workshop reflected Elias¡¯, except in contrast, it had a chaotic and haphazard appearance. ¡°Celeste? What¡¯re you doing here? We fixed the ceiling and improved the arena as requested. You shouldn¡¯t have heard anything. Are you here to rain on my triumph? Did you see, though? And all of Elias bellyachin¡¯.¡± She laughed heartily.


    ¡°No, no, dearest Sophia. I saw, and I appreciate your efforts. Congratulations. Here, your favorites.¡± Celeste opened and presented the container to Sophia.


    ¡°Oh my, Celeste¡¯s peanut brittle. Simply wicked.¡± Sophia broke a piece and bit into it. ¡°Did you know of my victory beforehand?¡±


    ¡°Sure. Listen, Sophia, before you start on your next project, I have a favor to ask.¡±


    ¡°I appreciate the treats, Celeste. However, I¡¯m quite busy and my preparations are already underway. Time¡¯s of the essence. If you could just leave those over there, I¡¯ll gladly use them for fuel.¡± Sophia snapped off another piece before scurrying away to the nearest workbench.


    ¡°It¡¯s important, Sophia, for Reina.¡±


    ¡°Reina?¡± Sophia stopped and turned. ¡°Reina¡­ I haven¡¯t seen her for a while, now that you mention her. Is she okay?¡±


    ¡°Oh, don¡¯t worry, she¡¯s perfectly fine. I just need your help.¡±


    Meanwhile, Elias picked up the pieces of the broken controller with great care while grumbling. Dante went unnoticed as he nearly stood over Elias.


    ¡°Why¡¯d that hag suddenly shut her trap?¡± Elias looked toward Sophia¡¯s side. Dante stepped forward, offering the container.


    ¡°Elias, sir, uh, treats? For you?¡± Dante stammered.


    ¡°What? Who the hell¡¯re you?¡± Elias looked at the disheveled Dante. ¡°Nevermind, I don¡¯t care. Get out of here, don¡¯t want what you¡¯re selling. How¡¯d you get in here? Nevermind. Don¡¯t care, I got work to do.¡± He picked up the last pieces of the controller.


    ¡°Oh, er, ah. Celeste. Celeste made these for you.¡± Dante opened the lid.


    ¡°Celeste? Oh-ho. Her brownies.¡± Elias stared and reached out, only to pull back. ¡°Hold on, I¡¯ve got to wash my hands.¡± Elias dashed away in haste. He placed the parts onto a workbench with care, then washed his hands in a nearby sink thoroughly. Dante watched in bewilderment all the while until he returned.


    ¡°Just the thing to get my juices flowing. Hold still now, lad.¡± To Dante¡¯s visible surprise, Elias produced a collapsible plate from his jacket. He then pulled out a tool that morphed into a knife, while his other hand already held a fork. He excised a brownie precisely, then carefully cut into it on the plate.


    ¡°Finally!¡± Sophia yelled.


    ¡°Shh. Can you keep it down?¡± Celeste asked.


    ¡°Let¡¯s see¡­ where should I start? That stubborn girl refused me every time, not that I tried that hard to convince her, but still.¡± Sophia laughed heartily as she started shifting through a pile of parts.


    ¡°What¡¯re you cackling about, crone?¡± Elias asked. He had walked through a seamless, now-open doorway next to the cube. A befuddled Dante followed behind, with the plated brownie atop the container in his arms.


    ¡°Nunya business, loser. Get outta my shop.¡±


    ¡°Celeste? What¡¯s this about? You should know not to trust the crazy bat with anything important.¡± Elias confronted Celeste.


    ¡°Ha! She came to me because she knows I¡¯m the best option possible. And faster.¡±


    ¡°Wait, Sophia. Let me be very clear. I don¡¯t care about speed. Safety is the priority,¡± Celeste said.


    ¡°Of course, of course, Celeste. Don¡¯t worry your pretty little head. Ah! Here it is.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s an ALTR module.¡± Elias shuffled to see. He looked back at Celeste. ¡°You really want to trust her with such a delicate task, Celeste? Whatever it is.¡±


    Celeste sighed. She glanced at Dante, who gave an apologetic look. I knew this wouldn¡¯t go smoothly, but how do I avoid these pains competing over this like they did with the cat and bird? And countless other things. Gives me a headache just thinking about it.


    ¡°Are you two capable of modifying a Z8920 Elysium model ALTR to work well with Reina¡¯s situation?¡± Dante asked.


    ¡°Aha! And don¡¯t be ridiculous, lad,¡± Elias said.


    ¡°Child¡¯s play, kid,¡± Sophia said.


    ¡°Heard of a little game called Branded¡ª?¡± Elias and Sophia turned and spoke in unison.


    ¡°Merc?¡± Elias said.


    ¡°Hero?¡± Sophia said.


    ¡°Wait a minute.¡± Dante¡¯s face lit up with excitement. ¡°Are you saying you made the ¡®Branded¡¯ series? The innovations of those games were mind blowing! Those are in my S tier, easily.¡±


    ¡°Elite?¡± Dante glanced at Elias, who nodded.


    ¡°Sophistry?¡± Dante glanced at Sophia, who nodded.


    ¡°You literally changed how ALTRs were being made. Incredible. Am I dreaming?¡± Dante gave a passionate recounting of both games. The others couldn¡¯t bring themselves to interrupt.


    ¡°Well, hot damn kid, you really know your stuff,¡± Sophia said.


    ¡°Few were able to appreciate those nuances. I¡¯m impressed, lad,¡± Elias said.


    ¡°Who are you, anyway?¡± Elias and Sophia asked.


    ¡°Oh, my bad. Dante.¡±


    A short time later, Celeste rode up in the elevator, alone.


    ¡°I can¡¯t believe I convinced them to work together for once.¡± Celeste breathed a sigh of relief. ¡°Harping about it being for Reina really helped, but that outburst of passion from Dante sure softened them up. Not that I understood any of it. Didn¡¯t even know they made such things. Knowing them, must¡¯ve been another contest.¡±


    A week later, early morning, a haggard Dante drowsily exited the adjoining bathroom of his basement bedroom. Yuna stood in the doorway opposite, startling him.


    ¡°You.¡± Yuna pointed at Dante. By the time he took a single step backward on instinct, she lifted him off his feet in an embrace. He immediately found it difficult to breathe and tapped her shoulder with his fingertips.


    Is this how I¡¯m going to die? Dante thought.


    ¡°You¡¯re an alright guy.¡± Yuna lessened her embrace.


    Dante coughed as the breath returned to his lungs. ¡°What?¡± Yuna continued to hold him aloft as she spoke near his ear.


    ¡°I can¡¯t remember ever seeing Reina¡¯s face like that. Just thinking of her bright smile and cheerful face sets my heart aflutter. She wouldn¡¯t shut up about ALTR. It was wonderful. Magnificent. Splendorous. Using such big words isn¡¯t like me. Yet even they don¡¯t do it justice. Thanks.¡±


    ¡°Oh, uh, sure.¡± Dante coughed. ¡°No problem. Thought you were maybe here to kill me?¡±


    ¡°Always a possibility. But. I¡¯ll accept you. For now.¡± Yuna squeezed again, to which Dante tapped out. ¡°It can always be arranged. Get me?¡± She released and lowered him to his feet.


    ¡°I think¡­ something cracked.¡± Dante gasped.


    ¡°You¡¯ll be fine.¡± Yuna slapped his shoulder with a chuckle. ¡°Shouldn¡¯t you be more grateful? Getting a hug from such a beauty?¡±


    Dante recovered while rubbing his ribs. ¡°Huh? I don¡¯t really give much thought to physie girls. Though you smelled a lot better than expected.¡± He stopped, his face went pale as the words left his lips. He glanced at Yuna. To his great surprise, she had a toothy grin.


    ¡°Ha. You¡¯re not the first to say that.¡±

 Ch 8 - Press Conference

    Several weeks later, early morning, Leon and Yuna stared each other down in the center of the Vyxora courtyard. While the area they stand in is cleared out, residents of the complex go about their morning routines unabated. A groggy Dante stumbled out from the basement steps. He winced, almost falling, then shielded himself from the sun while surveying the area. Val leaned against a nearby wall, sipping at coffee.


    ¡°So you managed to get up without help,¡± Val said.


    ¡°Val?¡± Dante turned and yawned. ¡°Morning.¡±


    ¡°Here.¡± Val offered a cup. Dante graciously accepted, then noticed Leon and Yuna stretching as he took a sip.


    ¡°What¡¯s going on?¡±


    ¡°Ah. Suppose you¡¯ve yet to see one of these, huh? Usually sleepin¡¯. Leon and Yuna are about to spar.¡±


    ¡°Uhh.¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t fret, it¡¯s pretty common. Hence why everyone else is unbothered. It¡¯s how they settle arguments or just how they start the day, even. We¡¯re all pretty used to it by now. Half of the time it¡¯s over who gets the last donut.¡±


    ¡°¡®Donut¡¯? Seriously? Did I actually wake up?¡±


    ¡°Heh. I¡¯m not pulling your leg. Think about those two¡¯s personalities. Fists are simply their best means of communication. Then, add in that they both have serious sweet tooths.¡±


    ¡°Right¡­¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s not a bad way to wake up, getting to watch. Most pay attention once they start. Get¡¯s the blood pumping vicariously, y¡¯kno?¡±


    ¡°Sure.¡±


    ¡°They don¡¯t hold back. You¡¯ll see soon enough.¡±


    Meanwhile, Yuna bounced on her toes in front of a stretching Leon.


    ¡°Why you gotta be so greedy, old man?¡± Yuna said. ¡°You swiped the last one last week, and again yesterday!¡±


    ¡°Snooze,¡± Leon said dismissively.


    ¡°Har Har. Very funny.¡±


    Leon shrugged with a slight smirk.


    ¡°Ooh. You know I hate that. You¡¯re gonna regret that, you old bastard!¡±


    In the blink of an eye, Yuna closed the distance to Leon. By the time the residents, now spectators, looked, he had deflected her jab. She stumbled forward slightly from a tug at her forearm. With a swift dodge, his fist missed her head within a hair¡¯s breadth. They exchanged blows in rapid succession. With little wasted movement, Leon parried each attack, barely moving himself. Yuna¡¯s agility displayed in full, issuing a reprisal after dodging each counter. Several minutes passed as they fought. Dante watched in awe while Val smirked at his countenance.


    ¡°Almost looks choreographed, doesn¡¯t it?¡± Val asked.


    ¡°Yeah, the hell?¡± Dante said.


    ¡°They¡¯re just that evenly matched, and know each other that well. And¡­it¡¯s over.¡±


    ¡°Damnit!¡± Yuna shouted. She withdrew her fist from Leon¡¯s chin, having dealt a jaw-shaking uppercut while Leon removed his fist from her side.


    ¡°Draw,¡± Leon said.


    ¡°I fucking know. We¡¯ll split it.¡± Yuna cursed under her breath.


    The residents chatted amongst each other casually while returning to their mornings. Leon followed Yuna into the elevator. Val clapped a hand on Dante¡¯s shoulder, who looked bewildered.


    ¡°You¡¯d be surprised how many of them end like that. Yuna¡¯s gonna be a grouch.¡± Val sighed.


    ¡°So weird, it¡¯s like it didn¡¯t even happen,¡± Dante said.


    ¡°Told ya, we¡¯re accustomed to it. It used to be pretty troublesome, though. They once fought so long that they caused collateral damage. So, Celeste stepped in, literally hosed them down, and made them agree to ¡®First clean hit decides the winner¡¯.¡±


    ¡°Wow, they agreed? They both seem pretty stubborn, or at least Yuna is.¡±


    ¡°Nope, both are. Like father, like daughter. However, Celeste¡¯s word is law around here. If I recall, Reina also gave them a guilt trip, which was pretty funny, actually.¡±


    ¡°Is it weird that Celeste frightens me the most in that family?¡±


    ¡°Heh. Good instincts. She¡¯ll legit kill you with kindness if you let her.¡±


    ¡°¡®Kill with kindness?¡¯ What?¡±


    ¡°Said that without thinking. But, since you¡¯re sticking around, guess it wouldn¡¯t hurt to warn you. Celeste accepts everyone and doesn¡¯t offer unsolicited advice. However, if you go to her or she offers and you accept? Well, prepare for dramatic life changes.¡±


    ¡°Alright?¡±


    ¡°Anyway, you awake enough?¡±


    ¡°Yeah, I guess. To reiterate, though, I shouldn¡¯t be relied on for hardware stuff.¡±


    ¡°Lawrence yammered on about ¡®databases¡¯ or something, so?¡±


    ¡°Fine, I know enough. Let¡¯s get this over with.¡± Dante yawned. ¡°Though, isn¡¯t Reina probably more familiar?¡±


    ¡°Well.¡± Val walked away. Dante followed. ¡°Lawrence kind of¡­worships Reina. Long story. Point is, he doesn¡¯t like to bother her unless he feels there¡¯s no other option. I agree Reina¡¯s time is pretty valuable, plus the Nezins are tremendous pains in the ass to deal with. Fortunately, we now have a tech-savvy freeloader to exploit.¡± She nudged him with an elbow.


    ¡°Damn.¡±


    ¡°Word of warning. Lawrence is serious to a fault, and can be pretty god damn insufferable. Don¡¯t even bother trying to crack a joke, for example. But, he willingly handles the logistics for just about everything so this¡¯ probably relatively important. He¡¯s going to watch you like a hawk.¡±


    ¡°Great.¡±


    Val slapped him on the back. ¡°Just do a good job, and I¡¯ll reward you. My lackeys eat well when they do good.¡±


    ¡°Your what?¡±


    ¡°In you go. He¡¯s here Lawrence! Gotta go!¡± Val pushed Dante into a room.


    Later that morning, a freshly showered Yuna, with a towel around her neck, walked into Reina¡¯s basement room. Reina-cat sat in her usual chair as the screens flashed with changes. Alongside her sat Dante, who rubbed his temples.


    ¡°What¡¯s with you?¡± Yuna rubbed the towel in her ears.


    ¡°Headache,¡± Dante said.


    ¡°He claims to have gotten it from Lawrence. I don¡¯t get how?¡± Reina asked.


    ¡°I do.¡± Yuna nodded. ¡°There¡¯s no bigger pain in the ass.¡±


    ¡°Lawrence is always so helpful, though?¡±


    ¡°You know the saying ¡®breathing down my neck¡¯? Well, he literally was.¡± Dante sighed. ¡°Thankfully, it was only a short fix this time. I shudder to think¡­¡±


    ¡°You wouldn¡¯t understand, Reina.¡± Yuna lamented. ¡°Even the smallest requests are such a fucking hassle with that guy.¡±


    ¡°But he¡¯s always so quick to¡ª,¡± Reina said.


    ¡°Like I¡¯ve tried to tell you before, he¡¯s only that helpful to you. Well, maybe Mom, too? Think he¡¯s scared of her. Anyway. Another day, another nothin¡¯?¡±


    ¡°No, actually. You were busy last night, but remember the rumors of Argonix being behind the arena attack?¡±


    ¡°Uh, sure. Pretend I do.¡±


    Reina sighed. ¡°Yes, well, as you complain about every day, there¡¯s been nothing else since. Of course, supposedly the gun was found but they¡¯ve kept a tight lid on it. Still only rumors.¡±


    Unauthorized duplication: this narrative has been taken without consent. Report sightings.


    ¡°I still think the railgun theory seems solid,¡± Dante said. ¡°Especially with that hole I noticed before Yuna¡ª¡±


    ¡°Saved you,¡± Yuna said.


    ¡°Technically, yeah, in hindsight. Heh.¡±


    ¡°Mhm. Now I remember, an Argonix wet works team, right? Something about their suits?¡±


    ¡°Yes. The suit, or suits, that were seen are known to be Argonix, not that they¡¯d ever admit it. Since then, however, there¡¯s been mounting pressure for Argonix to comment on the situation. The rumor of someone being killed with a bullet and worst, in an Aegis suit, has started to pick up in the public consciousness, despite most having no clue where it all happened. I suspect it¡¯s manufactured to some degree, sure, but this kicked into overdrive after that blatantly false story pushed out last night. Now Argonix has no choice, they have to give some kind of comment. No way remaining quiet is an option anymore. And so, they¡¯ve announced a press conference soon.¡±


    ¡°I think I followed that, kinda. How soon?¡±


    ¡°Today, soon.¡±


    ¡°They¡¯re probably just going to condemn the fake story, though, right?¡± Dante asked.


    ¡°Yes, but I suspect how they deny it is what Aegis is after. And maybe other things they¡¯ll be watching, that I¡¯m unaware of.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m lost,¡± Yuna said.


    ¡°Ah, to be honest with you, Yuna, none of this is likely to affect your, uh, goal,¡± Dante said.


    ¡°Of tearing the fucker who took my prey limb from limb?¡± Yuna held her towel aloft, tearing at it.


    ¡°Yeah, that.¡±


    ¡°Grr.¡± Yuna growled. The sound of the towel ripping resulted in Reina¡¯s chair turning.


    ¡°Calm down, Yuna. Sorry, I didn¡¯t mean to get your hopes up,¡± Reina said.


    Yuna stopped and exhaled deeply. ¡°Oops.¡± She looked at the tear. ¡°Aaahh. Seriously, how hasn¡¯t more happened since then? And why¡¯d you bring up Aegis?¡±


    ¡°Forgot to mention that, sorry. Our working theory is Aegis is behind the pressure on Argonix. Since it was their suit that was involved.¡±


    ¡°Makes sense, I guess.¡±


    Reina turned back around. ¡°It really is kind of unfathomable, though. How little has happened this last month. If you told me the day after that it¡¯d play out like this, I¡¯d never believe you. Sure, an Excalium bullet being used is ultra rare because of the cost involved, but not unheard of. A bullet being effective on an Aegis suit, though? I still have a hard time believing it happened.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s a strange feeling being in the know of something so big when the populace remains mostly oblivious,¡± Dante said.


    ¡°Gah!¡± Yuna grumbled. ¡°I feel my blood boiling thinking of how that bastard hasn¡¯t made any more moves.¡±


    ¡°Well, decent chance they were just a trigger puller, y¡¯know. Someone else¡¯s surely behind it all.¡±


    ¡°Whatever! I¡¯ll pry that from them. Then I¡¯ll¡­¡± Yuna cursed under her breath as she paced.


    ¡°Would you please stop riling her up?¡± Reina whispered.


    ¡°Shit,¡± Dante said. The sound of the towel ripping in half reached them. Dante and Reina exchanged glances. ¡°Is it weird that I pity my brother¡¯s killer a bit?¡±


    Reina paused. ¡°Yes.¡± She looked at Yuna. ¡°Although¡­¡±


    Meanwhile, atop the Aegis Industries headquarters, Artemis sat in her office. Aelfric stood at attention in front of her desk.


    ¡°Do you foresee any complications?¡± Artemis asked.


    ¡°No, Lady Artemis. All has been accounted for with our preparations,¡± Aelfric said.


    ¡°Very well. Things proceed apace. You have my leave.¡±


    Aelfric shifted to one knee, accompanied by a head bow. ¡°It is all thank¡ª.¡±


    ¡°Unnecessary.¡± Artemis snapped. ¡°Your praise serves no purpose. I don¡¯t enjoy repeating myself. We¡¯ve barely left the starting line.¡±


    ¡°Of course. My sincerest apologies, Lady Artemis. I will excuse myself.¡± Aelfric stood, bowed, and then exited the room. Artemis turned in her chair, gazing into the sky out a grand window.


    My ego needs no boosting, Aelfric. Twenty long years to finally reach this point. It¡¯s almost surreal I¡¯ll get to see the true beginning of Viktor¡¯s despair in a few short hours, Artemis thought. She closed her eyes. What would you think of me now, I wonder, Xandr?


    ¡°I¡¯d wonder how you¡¯ve wasted so much time and effort when you could be doing so much more,¡± said a voice in Artemis¡¯ head. She didn¡¯t flinch.


    ¡°Ah, hello, you. It¡¯s been so long, I¡¯d almost forgotten your sound.¡±


    ¡°The fact I¡¯m here shows you still have doubts. You can still change course before it¡¯s too late.¡±


    ¡°Come on, you can impersonate him better, can¡¯t you? Or, perhaps, have we forgotten?¡±


    ¡°Well, duh. How many years do you think it¡¯s been?¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t like to think about that.¡±


    ¡°I suppose you¡¯ve already done countless things I would¡¯ve been disgusted by, anyway.¡±


    ¡°An understatement, Xandr. No matter your brilliance, you wouldn¡¯t have been able to comprehend my depths.¡±


    ¡°What was that about ¡®ego needs no boosting¡¯?¡±


    ¡°Touche. Still, even I could have never conceived those depths.¡±


    ¡°Insert revenge cliche.¡±


    ¡°Now you¡¯re just being young me. Xandr was never snarky.¡±


    ¡°Artemis, my office!¡± Viktor shouted, his voice echoed around her.


    ¡°Lost track of time.¡± Artemis opened her eyes and stood. ¡°On my way, Viktor. Just finishing up.¡±


    A short time later, Artemis entered Viktor¡¯s office. The office appeared around one and a half times bigger than her own. Aesthetically, it looked quite similar, albeit with some additional extravagance to it. It would be clear to any who entered that it belonged to the CEO of Aegis Industries. Countless accolades, pictures, and more adorned the walls. A corner of the room had several dozens of sports memorabilia across many leagues. Each of which had an Aegis-owned team and the accompanying paraphernalia. A display case held numerous championship rings of the ¡®Aegis Sentinels¡¯. Viktor sat in a luxurious chair in another corner, swirling a glass of liquor in his hand. He faced a television screen projected onto the wall with crystal-clear picture. A news outlet discussed the upcoming press conference for Argonix and relevant market speculation. Artemis dismissed a secretary offering to retrieve any desired refreshments as she sat nearby in a chair.


    ¡°I¡¯ve said it countless times before, Artemis, I¡¯m so fortunate you¡¯re at Aegis.¡± Viktor laughed. ¡°This is your doing, isn¡¯t it?¡± He pointed at the news banner.


    ¡°Yes, Viktor,¡± Artemis said.


    ¡°I knew it. You¡¯d be a fearsome thorn in my side if you were elsewhere. Finally, we¡¯ll see that tedious fucker at Argonix speak up. Any guesses as to what they¡¯ll say?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ve prepared various responses contingent on their own. Of course, we¡¯re already monitoring under the surface. We will discover a trail.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s hard to believe a month has passed with so little.¡± Viktor leaned forward and shook his head. ¡°I thought for sure after we recovered the ¡®railgun¡¯ that another incident was around the corner. My time¡¯s too precious to be playing damage control this long, Artemis.¡±


    ¡°I understand your frustration, Viktor.¡±


    ¡°Those god-damned sniveling insects of the board need constant reassurance. It¡¯s tiring. Prosperity has made them weak. And then they have the audacity to speak to¡ª,¡± Viktor stopped himself. ¡°ahem. How¡¯s the research into that weapon progressing?¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s proven quite similar to our own prototypes. Which has unfortunately only baffled our engineers. They theorize the true answers reside in the projectile.¡±


    ¡°I see.¡± Viktor paused. ¡°Perhaps it comprises an even rarer material than Excalium, synthetic or naturally occurring. That would explain the sparse information, lack of further incidents, and retrieval operation.¡±


    ¡°That is well reasoned, Viktor. Trace elements of the residue on the fatal wound have indeed alluded to an unknown.¡±


    ¡°Ha.¡± Viktor laughed. ¡°Is that surprise I detect, Artemis? Give me some credit. Just because it¡¯s been years since I¡¯ve been involved in our ¡®guts¡¯, doesn¡¯t mean I¡¯ve let my faculties degrade. I trust you enough to handle them without supervision, but I¡¯ve kept an eye on our most promising projects.¡±


    ¡°My apologies.¡±


    ¡°Think nothing of it. I feel a tinge of excitement, strangely enough. Perhaps I, too, will benefit from this crisis. I¡¯ve gotten this far by always embracing evolution, not being content with stagnation and the status quo. That¡¯s the driving force behind Project Avalon, after all.¡±


    ¡°That is Aegis.¡±


    ¡°Exactly! We¡¯ll bend this situation to our advantage.¡±


    A brief time passed before the conference started. A media area with hundreds of people faced a podium setup outside Argonix headquarters. Drones fluttered about while guards in Argonix-branded suits surrounded the area. A thunderous sound rang out from the broadcast. Viktor jumped to his feet, spilling his liquor.


    ¡°What?¡± Viktor roared in a panicked fury. Artemis remained seated. She glanced at him. In stark contrast, she appeared tranquil.


    Meanwhile, in Reina¡¯s basement room, Yuna moved to the nearby wall. She backed into the Aegis equipment station. A few moments passed and nothing happened.


    ¡°Reina!¡± Yuna yelled.


    ¡°No!¡± Reina said.


    ¡°God damn, I bet they even had an Argonix suit under their clothes,¡± Dante said.


    ¡°Fine! I¡¯ll go without the shitty thing.¡± Yuna moved to the door.


    ¡°It¡¯s on the other side of the city, Yuna, don¡¯t be ridiculous!¡± Reina-cat leapt off the chair toward Yuna. ¡°Even if it wasn¡¯t, this just happened live. They already cut the feed. The place is going to be swarming with law enforcement. Think!¡±


    ¡°That sound was crazy, was that the same?¡± Dante asked.


    ¡°Open it, Reina, now.¡± Yuna punched the door, denting it.


    ¡°Straight through the heart, looked like. Wonder where the shooter could be?¡±


    ¡°Shut up, Dante!¡± Reina said.


    ¡°Oops.¡±


    ¡°Rainbows!¡±


    Yuna clawed at the door in vain, attempting to grip it. ¡°Come on, really, Reina? You¡¯re gonna pull that? Now? When there¡¯s a chance, finally?¡±


    ¡°Rainbows!¡± Her voice from the cat sounded so loud that both Dante and Yuna recoiled in pain, covering their ears.


    ¡°Grr.¡± Yuna stormed off into the other room.


    Reina meandered back to her chair with a sigh. ¡°Sorry for that, Dante.¡±


    ¡°Didn¡¯t know you could be that loud,¡± Dante said.


    ¡°Mm.¡± Reina leapt into her chair.


    ¡°It¡¯s alright, my ears aren¡¯t bleeding. I think.¡± Dante checked his ears. ¡°Wew.¡±


    ¡°I might¡¯ve overdone the voice amplification.¡±


    ¡°Nah, Yuna even talked back during your lil¡¯ codeword thing. Not that I¡¯ve been around long, but hadn¡¯t seen that. I wasn¡¯t helping either with my jabbering. My bad.¡±


    ¡°Sorry for telling you to shut up.¡± Reina spoke in a solemn tone.


    ¡°It¡¯s cool, really.¡± Dante sighed. ¡°We¡¯re in for a long night, aren¡¯t we?¡±


    ¡°¡®We¡¯?¡± The screens filled with news sites, social media, forums, and more in rapid succession.


    ¡°Remember? All my ALTR accounts are locked to my chair in my room. To think security would bite me in the ass so thoroughly.¡± Dante shook his head. ¡°I¡¯ve got a vested interest here.¡±


    ¡°Oh. Right. Have you even tried, though? Your Mom might¡¯ve¡ª¡±


    ¡°Ha. Let me stop you there. I¡¯ve tried to tell you but, trust me, not all, well, any, really, families are like yours. Ain¡¯t no way in hell I¡¯m getting even a foot in the door. More likely to be thrown to the curb. Actually, did I ever tell you that? They literally threw me out the door like you see in old cartoons.¡±


    Reina giggled, then her sound ceased.


    Dante laughed. ¡°No need to cut your audio. The bruises have healed. I can recognize it¡¯s pretty funny.¡±


    ¡°Did they¡­ lift you by the pants?¡±


    ¡°Yep. Wedgie and all.¡±


    Reina laughed. ¡°Sorry, it¡¯s not that funny.¡±


    ¡°You know, you say ¡®sorry¡¯ way too often for a leader of a criminal syndicate.¡± Dante chuckled. ¡°Anyway, tell me what to do, Princess Reina.¡±


    ¡°Please don¡¯t.¡±


    ¡°I tell her that all the time,¡± Yuna appeared behind them, arm hanging on Reina¡¯s chair, startling Dante.


    ¡°Yuna? How¡¯re your ears? I¡¯m so sorry I¡ª¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m fine.¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re, er, chill, already?¡± Dante asked.


    ¡°Yep. Vented my frustration out on your toy. S¡¯all good.¡± Yuna, with a devilish grin, clapped a hand on Dante¡¯s shoulder, whose expression morphed into abject horror. ¡°Kidding, kidding.¡±


    Reina giggled. ¡°How many times are you going to fall for that, Dante?¡±


    ¡°Too many.¡± Dante breathed a sigh of relief.


    Yuna chuckled. ¡°Moving on. Find me something, Lady Reina.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m not okay with that, either.¡±

 Ch 9 - The Goal

    Yuna, in her Aegis suit, stood in the corner of an underground area, similar to the one she had fought in prior with an arena at it¡¯s center. Reina-sparrow hovered overhead while Yuna affixed a device to a wall. Armed guards in similar suits stood throughout the area. At the entrance, Leon watched over a steady flow of guards screening people. Excitement and oppression filled the air in equal measure, mixing into a heavy tension. Yuna turned, gazing out over the sea of spectators filing to their seats.


    ¡°I should be down in that smelly ass room, instead of playing babysitter. God damnit. Such bullshit,¡± Yuna said.


    ¡°We¡¯re almost done,¡± Reina said. ¡°Are you really going to keep grumbling all night?¡±


    Yuna sighed. ¡°I¡¯m just so much more annoyed now that we¡¯re actually here. Dante, you fucking bum, you should be here helping.¡±


    Inside Reina¡¯s basement room at Vyxora, Dante leaned back into his chair, feet on the desk while he watched numerous surveillance feeds of the arena.


    ¡°And risk running into a family member? Yeah, no,¡± Dante said.


    ¡°Big fuckin¡¯ deal, you pussy.¡±


    ¡°Call me whatever will make you feel better.¡± No way in hell I¡¯m risking being verbally abused by them while these two listen in.


    ¡°Clear comms,¡± Leon said.


    ¡°My bad, Pops,¡± Yuna groaned. Reina led her to another nearby location, where she affixed another device. ¡°You still think they¡¯re gonna show, Reina? Especially with how packed this place is with security now?¡±


    ¡°I¡­¡± Reina-sparrow glanced about. What should I say? There really is so much security, the council¡¯s being careful. Would they still risk it? What would they even have to gain? To think another month passed with almost nothing since Argonix. I had Papa call in a favor just to test my theory. I enlisted the Nezins to make these. Yuna might start a fight if someone so much as bumps into her¡­I had so much more confidence in all this last night. Why? What if I¡¯m wasting everyone¡¯s time?


    Yuna plucked Reina from the air, shook her a few times and then held her at eye-line. ¡°Hey, birdbrain, you¡¯re overthinking things again, aren¡¯t you?¡±


    ¡°What? I, um, no¡­no,¡± Reina panicked.


    ¡°Give me some credit, I know you. And I know I¡¯ve been pissin¡¯ and moanin¡¯ but I wasn¡¯t questioning you.¡±


    ¡°Nothing,¡± Leon said.


    ¡°Exactly, Pops get¡¯s it. The rest of us tiny brains couldn¡¯t even come up with something.¡± Yuna poked the sparrow¡¯s forehead several times.


    ¡°Quit it, that¡¯s more disorienting than you¡¯d think,¡± Reina said. She squirmed out of Yuna¡¯s grasp, returning to hover.


    ¡°¡®What if I¡¯m wasting everyone¡¯s time?¡¯¡° Yuna mocked in a dainty tone.


    ¡°Wha-what?¡±


    ¡°That was you. Got it right, didn¡¯t I?¡±


    ¡°Maybe.¡± It¡¯s true, I really don¡¯t give Yuna enough credit. I¡¯m glad she can¡¯t see my face. Glad I can¡¯t, either.


    ¡°So, you seen your fam yet, Dante?¡± Yuna asked.


    ¡°Yeah, why?¡± Dante asked.


    ¡°Where they at?¡±


    ¡°Somethings telling me, I shouldn¡¯t tell you.¡±


    ¡°Oh c¡¯mon, I¡¯m just curious.¡±


    ¡°Your intuition¡¯s right, Dante. Not happening, Yuna,¡± Reina said. ¡°This street goes both ways. ¡®Hey, why¡¯d you bleeping bleeps not re-challenge me first. Are you a bunch of bleeping bleeps.¡¯¡°


    ¡°Accurate,¡± Leon said.


    ¡°Thanks, Papa. So?¡±


    ¡°Fineee. Yeah, mighta said something like that. Everyone¡¯s against me.¡± Yuna kicked at the floor.


    ¡°This¡¯ unlikely to make you feel any better, but I did just hear back from an old contact,¡± Dante said. ¡°It¡¯s as we thought, the council must¡¯ve sanctioned this to avoid system breakdown. The Immortals and The Legionnaires have been ramping up hostilities for a while, long before your duel. Then, since the Praetor¡¯s death, The Immortals really pushed things to the edge. Basically, this is to prevent a huge ass skirmish breaking out. You already know rocks-for-brains Nero is capable of such stupidity.¡±


    ¡°Doubt,¡± Leon said.


    ¡°Yes, it¡¯s unlikely the council would¡¯ve allowed this if the Legion declared on Vyxora again,¡± Reina said.


    ¡°I get it, I get it.¡± Yuna said. ¡°I¡¯ve no choice but to hope Reina¡¯s theory is correct. Oooh, that mother fucker¡¯s gonna regret ruining my duel.¡± She grinded her fist into her other palm.


    ¡°Calm,¡± Leon said.


    ¡°I am. Such a damn worrywart.¡±


    ¡°End.¡±


    ¡°Just in time,¡± Reina said. ¡°Sensors are good to go.¡±


    ¡°What now?¡± Yuna asked.


    ¡°We wait.¡±


    ¡°I forgot, what¡¯re the thingys for again?¡±


    ¡°One of the only rumors with any real credibility is a railgun¡¯s being used. The Nezins theorized that sensors could pick up the building energy required for it to fire. That¡¯s the idea, anyway. We have no proof, though.¡±


    ¡°Not like anyone else seems to have any better ideas,¡± Dante said.


    ¡°Yeah, these lame-asses from the council are treating it like a numbers game. Flooding the area with bodies,¡± Yuna said. ¡°If one thing¡¯s clear, the assassin¡¯s a real tricky bastard. Disappeared into thin air twice now. This ¡®railgun¡¯ junk¡¯s over my head but it¡¯s better than nothing.¡±


    ¡°Alert,¡± Leon said.


    ¡°Quit naggin¡¯, I know.¡±


    ¡°Care.¡±


    ¡°I know, sheesh.¡±


    ¡°Looks like they¡¯re coming out,¡± Dante said.


    ¡°Whoa, is that a spear? Damn, I¡¯ve always wanted to fight a spear wielder.¡±


    The arena announcer commenced with the expected hype building of the ensuing match. Nero walked out in near identical attire that Vigo, the Praetor, had worn. Opposite him, an individual in a combat suit strode out. They were adorned with clothing reminiscent of the ancient Persian empire. It appeared light and robe-like. They had a large shield along with a transarm spear.


    ¡°I swear, what¡¯s with this fucking city and cosplayers?¡± Yuna said. ¡°I really don¡¯t get it, no matter how many times I see it.¡±


    ¡°History,¡± Leon said.


    ¡°I know you¡¯ve told me that before, but still.¡±


    Weird, am I getting used to Leon? Think I know what he said, Dante thought.


    ¡°It¡¯s actually simpler than you might think,¡± Dante said. ¡°I¡¯ve played games in all kinds of eras, so I get the appeal. But, basically, when swords and stuff came back in style, people looked to the past. You could say the idea is to channel the warrior cultures of old where melee combat was all there was.¡±


    ¡°Ehhh. Still pretty lame shit.¡±


    Heh, wonder if she has a hard time comprehending wanting to channel them because she possesses a ¡®warrior¡¯s spirit¡¯, as Reina put it, Dante thought with a chuckle.


    ¡°Mm.¡± Leon grunted, barely audible, only Dante seemed to notice.


    If you encounter this tale on Amazon, note that it''s taken without the author''s consent. Report it.


    That was weird?


    ¡°Dante!¡± Reina shouted as she flew off toward the ceiling. Dante almost fell out of his chair. ¡°Quick! Do you see anything? The sensors are reacting!¡±


    ¡°Looking¡­looking,¡± Dante scanned the dozens of feeds laid out in a grid in front of him.


    ¡°One after another is going off but they haven¡¯t triangulated the source yet. Where could they be?¡±


    ¡°God damn, they really showed? Where? Where!¡± Yuna scanned the arena. However, nothing appeared out of the ordinary. Spectators placed bets, guards patrolled and the combatants waited. Lights dimmed, increasing the exposure of the center arena.


    ¡°Not seeing anything suspicious, somehow?¡± Dante said.


    ¡°I might have something?¡± Reina said. ¡°It¡¯s¡­it¡¯s¡­coming from a wall near the ceiling? What?¡± She flew closer to a corner of the area. ¡°Is there maybe ventilation or?¡± The unforgettable boom of a shot rang out. She saw a faint flash of light for a split-second emerge from the wall. ¡°Yuna! This ceiling corner! There¡¯s something. Sending it¡¯s location now!¡±


    Reina flew closer while switching to thermal optics. The thermal glow of a human appeared in stark contrast to the surrounding area, as if the wall didn¡¯t exist. A notable heat signature lay at their feet. The figure moved and for a moment, Reina thought they looked at her, despite such details indiscernible from thermals. She froze aloft. Then, at the sight of them walking away, Reina pursued. She had forgotten about the wall as she passed through it unhindered. She passed over the heat signature of the weapon and at that realization, she paused above it while she switched off thermals.


    ¡°Yuna! The wall¡¯s a hologram! This must be some kind of maintenance tunnel. Hurry!¡±


    ¡°Already on my way.¡± Yuna sprinted up the sheer wall from an angle. ¡°Okay, I¡¯ll admit, this feature¡¯s pretty fuckin¡¯ handy.¡± She started to lose balance as she looked at where Reina waited. Her HUD displayed Reina¡¯s form within the wall. ¡°Should¡¯ve practiced though, fuck shit fuck.¡± As one foot slipped from the wall, she slammed one of her axes into the wall, creating a hold.


    Meanwhile, Reina observed a device that projected the wall. The tunnel had dim light. She glanced at the weapon. It appeared massive, reminiscent of a cross between a high caliber sniper rifle and a bazooka. Heated vapor emanated from it. After remembering the assailant, she quickly glanced down the tunnel, and saw no one. She switched to thermals again in a panic. The heat signature of the individual she¡¯d seen prior, casually strode some distance away.


    ¡°Almost¡­there!¡± Yuna had further scaled the wall, then made a great leap to the ceiling corner, slamming both axes into the wall. The hologram of the wall disappeared a moment later and Yuna hopped into the tunnel.


    ¡°They¡¯re still here. Turn on thermals, they must be using an optical camouflage,¡± Reina said. Yuna sprinted past without a word, spinning her dual axes in her hands. ¡°Be careful, Yuna! Don¡¯t underestimate them. They must be incredibly confident in their escape route!¡±


    Yuna did as Reina advised and soon saw the assassin¡¯s heat-mapped form appear in front of her. She closed the distance until suddenly the assassin moved with incredible speed and then stopped just as abruptly. She sped up in pursuit while she switched off the thermal vision. The tunnel opened into a room. Among some pillars lay nondescript storage and general maintenance equipment. She slowed as she took in the environment through her peripheral yet her gaze remained affixed on her target. No longer camouflaged, they stood on the opposite end of the room, leading into another tunnel corridor. They wore a pitch black combat suit. It appeared similar to Yuna¡¯s and struck an imposing figure. They held a small blade at their chest in their right hand, a wakizashi transarm. Their left held an immense transarm claymore slung over their shoulder. Yuna sped up again, her axes disappeared to her back on her approach until, without breaking stride, she unleashed on the assassin.


    ¡°Gotcha, motha fucker!¡± Yuna yelled. The assassin narrowly deflected her axes with the wakizashi in time, yet their claymore followed in the immediate after in a downward arc. She dodged. ¡°Finally!¡±


    Meanwhile, Reina analyzed the weapon left behind. She determined the reasoning for it¡¯s abandonment, for it had been bolted into the floor.


    ¡°It does seem to be a railgun, I think? Is it really so powerful it required being made stationary? Oh. Dante, how¡¯re things out there? I totally got lost in thought,¡± Reina said.


    ¡°Well, it¡¯s good you¡¯re alright, tried hailing you a few times,¡± Dante said.


    ¡°Sorry.¡±


    ¡°No big. Out here, it was pretty chaotic for a bit.¡±


    ¡°¡®Was¡¯?¡±


    ¡°Yeah. If your dad ever wants another career, he¡¯d be one hell of a legendary bouncer. Everyone was running around like headless chickens while the guards searched in vain for the shooter. Even had to mute the sound for a bit, could feel a headache coming fast. I didn¡¯t catch if he said anything, but people started to file out the exit in an orderly manner while his imposing figure stood towering over them. It was a pretty weird sight.¡±


    ¡°And¡­your brother?¡±


    ¡°Unfortunately, after he inspected himself for a bullet hole for an embarrassingly long time, he realized the poor Immortals fellow lay dead.¡±


    ¡°Uhm.¡±


    ¡°That was a joke in poor taste. Anyhoo, this kinda means your theory was on the money, no? Crazy.¡±


    ¡°Detective,¡± Leon said.


    ¡°Don¡¯t be ridiculous, Papa. It sounds like you did a great job, though. I¡¯d heard after the fact that there were numerous injuries last time from the stampede. Some almost died.¡±


    I really am starting to get Leon, maybe. That was basically a reference to my bouncer comment. Heh, Dante thought.


    ¡°It¡¯s hard to believe, but whoever¡¯s behind this, their goal really does seem to be to incite chaos. But, in stark contrast to that, their preparedness is even more unreal.¡± Reina went on to explain how the wall must have been removed and replaced with the hologram, along with recapping how things had transpired for her and Yuna to that point.


    ¡°Yuna?¡± Leon asked.


    ¡°Ah! What am I doing? It must¡¯ve only been a few minutes but I think I can hear the clangs of metal. Going now.¡±


    ¡°Be careful,¡± Dante said.


    ¡°I¡¯m not really in danger, Dante.¡±


    ¡°Oh, right. Bird thing.¡± Dante chuckled.


    ¡°Thanks, though.¡±


    Meanwhile, Yuna and the assassin were in an intense duel. Curses from Yuna were drowned out by the clashing of their transarms. The room had already become scarred from their lethal dance. Her transarms morphed into other variants often between exchanges. However, her opponent countered each in stride, their own unchanging. Countless parries, deflections and ripostes occurred as the seconds passed.


    Reina arrived in time to see a particularly powerful confrontation. Yuna swung two swords in a downward arc. Her opponent absorbed the blows with the brunt of their claymore as a shield. In turn, she kicked the claymore, staggering them. She followed with a thrust of a rapier. However, they¡¯d already recovered and parried with the wakizashi. A moment later, the claymore swung in a wide horizontal arc, causing Yuna to leap backwards as it cut clean through a nearby pillar.


    ¡°Too much time,¡± the assassin said.


    Yuna paused for only a second, but in the next a thick smoke filled the area. On instinct, she guarded herself while jumping further away. However, as a few seconds went by with her sensing no incoming attack, she switched to thermals. Her visor became a mess of heat signatures, so disorienting that she turned it off in response.


    ¡°Yuna? I forcefully turned your comms back on, can you hear me?¡± Reina asked.


    ¡°Reina! Do you see the bastard?¡± Yuna asked. ¡°Thermals are fucked. Can¡¯t see shit.¡±


    ¡°They¡¯re gone.¡±


    ¡°What? No way.¡±


    ¡°The smoke was pure diversion, it¡¯s even equipped with a myriad of flakes that interfere with any vision I try.¡±


    ¡°But¡ª!¡±


    ¡°I¡¯d see a larger distortion if they were still in the room.¡±


    ¡°God damnit. Thought for sure they were lurkin¡¯ still.¡± Yuna emerged from the dissipating smoke near a hovering Reina.


    ¡°If we consider how prepared they were, they must have only engaged with you in the first place because they thought they could end it quickly.¡±


    ¡°Well,¡± Yuna sighed as she shook her head, ¡°the lil¡¯ bitch is skilled, I¡¯ll give them that. Dono how much time passed, but¡ª¡±


    ¡°Formidable,¡± Leon said.


    ¡°Yeah, Pops. Fuck.¡±


    ¡°Okay?¡±


    ¡°Of course I am, ya old fool.¡±


    Later that evening, Aelfric walked at a brisk pace in a dim alley way. He wore a sizable coat, with gloves. He glanced in a nearby window of a closed storefront at his reflection as he placed a baseball cap upon his head.


    Shameful. You¡¯re missing Lady Artemis¡¯ reading because you were not careful enough, Aelfric thought. Then, as he lifted his chin some and inspected his face, his skin color slowly changed, as did his eye and hair color. It¡¯s done, might be able to catch the end still. Hurry.


    After a short time, Aelfric approached a well-maintained, unassuming building with a dilapidated concrete fence. In haste, he opened a gate and closed it. He repeated the same to the building door, taking care to reduce noise. The interior stood in stark contrast to it¡¯s outside appearance, exuding a cozy home and atmosphere. Pictures of children lined the hallway walls as Aelfric moved quickly past, with little to no sound. His pace quickened even further at the sound of Artemis¡¯ voice. He turned into a room. A group of children of varying ages huddled among one another around a woman. An elderly man and woman off to the side exchanged a smiling glance with Aelfric, who nodded.


    Wew. Think this¡¯ the halfway point, at least. There my Lady is in all her splendor, Aelfric thought as he stared, grinning, at the woman reading aloud. Artemis¡¯ skin, eyes and hair too were of a different hue than normal. She wore glasses as well and starkly casual attire to her usual, along with an altered hair style.


    Some time later, Aelfric and Artemis sat across from one another within a drone taxi. They remained in their altered appearances.


    ¡°You were late?¡± Artemis asked.


    ¡°My sincerest apologies, Lady Artemis.¡± Aelfric bowed his entire upper half low.


    ¡°Were there complications?¡±


    ¡°Yes. However, the objective was completed prior to my being delayed. I had to ensure I wasn¡¯t compromised.¡±


    ¡°You appear unharmed.¡±


    ¡°I am undeserving of your concern, my Lady.¡±


    Artemis tapped away at a screen nearby. ¡°Safe now, report in full.¡±


    ¡°Understood. Everything proceeded according to plan up to my exit, with no deviations. As I engaged cloaking, despite being obstructed by the hologram, it seemed as if a bird watched me. I dismissed this strange event. However, shortly after, I was pursued.¡± Aelfric recounted the details of his battle with Yuna. ¡°I determined the confrontation was far too prolonged and executed maneuver E-S.¡±


    ¡°I assume there are no recordings, per protocol?¡±


    ¡°Correct, my Lady. My apologies.¡±


    ¡°Cease with the apologies.¡± Artemis shot Aelfric an icy glare as he opened his mouth. He stopped and nodded. ¡°We prepared so thoroughly specifically for such complications. Admittedly, I did not think it would happen so soon, however. Your pursuer must have proved exceedingly skilled?¡±


    ¡°I am loathe to admit, yes.¡±


    ¡°I recall you mentioning they wielded dual axes at the start of your confrontation? Are you positive?¡±


    ¡°Yes, I¡¯m quite sure. Why do you ask?¡±


    ¡°Your ability to focus on the task at hand is a great boon. However, that compartmentalization can also be a detriment.¡± Artemis tapped away at the air, her movements reflected onto the keyboard in her IRIS. A nearby monitor screen turned on to display a picture of Yuna in her Aegis suit. ¡°The chances of this being mere coincidence are unlikely. Does this appearance match your pursuer?¡±


    ¡°It does. The suit isn¡¯t a guarantee, but their frame and build are identical.¡±


    ¡°There appears to be little information on this ¡®Yuna¡¯. She was the one meant to duel the Praetor.¡±


    ¡°May I humbly beseech, how did you¡ª?¡±


    ¡°Research is never wasted time, Aelfric. I have not been preparing for so long without learning this simple truth.¡±


    ¡°As ever, I am humbled by your wisdom, Lady Artemis. I would prostrate myself in shame were we on the ground.¡± Aelfric bowed deeply.


    Artemis sighed.

 Ch 10 - Hired

    Several days later, mid-morning, the door to Reina¡¯s basement room opened. Leon entered, with a slight duck as he narrowly fit through the opening. Yuna hung upside down from the ceiling nearby, exercising. Dante lay asleep into his arms on the desk, drooling slightly. Reina-cat sat in the chair while the screens were busy.


    ¡°Pops? Rare for you to come down here.¡± Yuna pulled up and unlocked her ankles, landing with nary a sound.


    ¡°Papa, the meeting concluded already?¡± Reina-cat turned in the chair.


    ¡°Oh, right, duh. They have a good reason for making you miss our morning routine?¡±


    ¡°Hired.¡± Leon walked over to the side of Reina, then attached a cord to a blank rectangular device.


    ¡°What¡¯re you? Ah, that¡¯s a council missive, right?¡± Reina asked. Leon nodded.


    ¡°A what now?¡± Yuna asked.


    ¡°It¡¯s quite ingenious. It¡¯s how the council delivers secure messages. You see¡ª¡± Reina rambled off a technical explanation in slight excitement.


    ¡°Stooooopp. You know that stuff just bounces off me,¡± Yuna pleaded.


    ¡°Oops, sorry.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s a key to a virtual lock, basically,¡± Dante said. Leon and Yuna glanced to him as he yawned while Reina returned to the screens.


    ¡°Hey, you¡¯re pretty useless most of the time.¡± Yuna gave Dante a playful punch with a slight grin.


    Dante rubbed his shoulder. ¡°Harsh. Seems unwarranted.¡±


    ¡°But maybe you¡¯re worth keeping around to translate Reina-speak. She doesn¡¯t seem to get we¡¯re meatheads, no matter how many times we tell her.¡±


    ¡°Agree,¡± Leon said.


    ¡°Glad to help, I guess,¡± Dante said.


    ¡°Okay!¡± Reina announced. ¡°I¡¯ve got the site up. Let¡¯s see¡­¡± They all turned to the screens. Indecipherable text characters filled an encrypted website page until a few moments later, they switched into legible text. ¡°¡®In recognition of The Vyxora Syndicate¡¯s success, they are hereby requested by the authority of the council to conduct operations¡­¡¯¡° Reina transitioned into a mumble while they all read on. A brief time passed.


    ¡°So, not so much ¡®hired¡¯ as an unrefusable order, if I understand this right?¡± Dante asked.


    ¡°Is that what this crap¡¯s saying? Why can¡¯t they just get to the fucking point. My head hurts.¡± Yuna rubbed her eyes.


    ¡°Bureaucrats.¡± Leon shook his head.


    ¡°Indeed, Papa.¡± Reina giggled. ¡°Sometimes it¡¯s hard to believe they¡¯re made up of Lyrsium¡¯s most infamous criminal organizations.¡±


    ¡°Old fucks would be better off in politics.¡± Yuna grumbled.


    ¡°They¡¯d have even less power then,¡± Dante said.


    ¡°Corpos then.¡±


    ¡°They probably wish they were.¡±


    ¡°Yes,¡± Leon said.


    ¡°Wait, is this how they usually sound, Reina?¡± Yuna asked.


    ¡°When they contract us? Close, yes,¡± Reina said.


    ¡°Thanks for not making us read this shit prior.¡±


    ¡°Mhm. It¡¯s as Dante said though, they strongly imply refusal isn¡¯t an option. To summarize, I¡¯m reading between the lines some albeit, they¡¯re extremely pleased they got their hands on the railgun. If I had to guess, they must¡¯ve been forced to turn over the first one to Aegis. Basically, because we were able to not only locate but engage the assassin, they want us to head the investigation with the council¡¯s resources.¡±


    ¡°Shinobi,¡± Leon said in a grim tone.


    ¡°Yes, I can¡¯t imagine them being too pleased with this. We better be careful.¡±


    ¡°Uh, careful of what now? Shinobi? Like, ninjas?¡± Dante asked.


    ¡°How the hell don¡¯t you know about those creepy bastards? Pops and me have had to work off their intel sometimes. Always skulking about like cockroaches.¡±


    ¡°They¡¯re the primary intelligence network behind the council. Also a subdivision of the Ronin Syndicate,¡± Reina said.


    ¡°In other words, along with corpos and the pigs, those bums have been failing to find anything on the assassin either,¡± Yuna said. ¡°Ha. They must be fuckin¡¯ pissed we got a leg up.¡±


    ¡°Great.¡± Dante sighed. ¡°In hindsight though, it hadn¡¯t really dawned me until just now how crazy it is we¡¯ve made progress whereas everyone else seems clueless. Not that I helped much.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s because the poor bastards don¡¯t have a Reina.¡± Yuna boasted.


    ¡°Careful,¡± Leon said.


    ¡°I know, Papa,¡± Reina said. ¡°Like you and Dante have pointed out, we may have a lot of eyes on us going forward. Despite the public assassination a month ago, all the various interested parties have failed to find any trace, besides the firing location. But there wasn¡¯t even a railgun left behind for Argonix¡­¡± It never even occurred to me it could turn out like this. Even if they¡¯re inciting chaos right now, what¡¯s their true goal? What if I¡¯ve put a target on our backs?¡± Reina thought until feeling a sense of disorientation. Yuna had begun giving her forceful head pets.


    ¡°Rreeiiinnaaa,¡± Yuna said.


    ¡°S-sorry. What is it?¡± Reina said.


    ¡°Hmm. I know that tone. Spit it out. What¡¯s rattling around in there? Don¡¯t bother trying to deny it.¡±


    Reina sighed. ¡°I¡¯m worried I¡¯ve put a target on us.¡±


    ¡°Pfft.¡± Yuna laughed. ¡°Sounds great to me, if anything. Maybe I¡¯ll get some decent challengers until settling the score with Clayshi.¡±


    ¡°¡®Clayshi¡¯?¡±


    ¡°Yeah, they used a claymore and a wakizashi, so, Clayshi. Better than repeating ¡®assassin¡¯ over and over.¡±


    ¡°Solid,¡± Leon said.


    Yuna grinned as she patted Leon on the back. ¡°Knew you¡¯d understand, Pops.¡±


    Reina sighed. She definitely took inspiration from a show.


    ¡°By the way,¡± Dante said. ¡°I have to ask. No offense, but Vyxora¡¯s pretty, er, small. Yet you¡¯ve taken ¡®contracts¡¯ from the council? I hadn¡¯t give it much thought, but I think you said Leon called in a favor? To be included in the security detail? What am I missing here? Wait. Now that I think of it. How the hell was The Legion the first to come knocking?¡±


    ¡°What? You didn¡¯t know any of that?¡± Yuna said. ¡°We stay small for various reasons.¡±


    ¡°Sorry.¡± Leon and Reina spoke in unison, then exchanged a glance with one another. Dante had a bewildered look as Yuna shook her head.


    ¡°Ignore them. As for the other stuff, they all have the same answer. Pops was a legendary merc before Vyxora.¡±


    ¡°Huh¡­¡± Dante said. I guess he must¡¯ve been a real ¡®legend¡¯ to have such pull? What was my family even thinking? Were they that¡­eh, I don¡¯t really care actually.¡± He shrugged to himself.


    A case of literary theft: this tale is not rightfully on Amazon; if you see it, report the violation.


    ¡°So, what¡¯re you gonna do?¡± Yuna kicked Dante¡¯s chair, startling him out of thought.


    ¡°Uh, about what?¡±


    ¡°Going forward.¡±


    ¡°Oh, ah, nothing¡¯s really changed for me. Until ¡®Clayshi¡¯ is taken care of, I can¡¯t get back my ALTR. So, I¡¯ll do what I can if still allowed.¡±


    ¡°Suppose you¡¯ve been an okay assistant to Reina. Pops?¡±


    ¡°Sure,¡± Leon said.


    ¡°Have you still not talked to your family at all?¡± Reina asked. ¡°You didn¡¯t even reach out to them after the last incident? They haven¡¯t contacted you? Can they even?¡±


    ¡°Nope and nope. Hm, I mean technically they could but seems unlikely. Why?¡± Dante spoke in a dismissive tone.


    ¡°Sorry, it¡¯s none of my business.¡±


    ¡°Eh? Nothing worth apologizing for? I¡¯m not bothered. Just don¡¯t get why you asked?¡±


    ¡°Isn¡¯t it possible they miss you? Couldn¡¯t you talk to your mother?¡±


    Dante chuckled. ¡°Ha, no way.¡± He observed peculiar looks from Leon and Yuna, directed at Reina. ¡°Ah, I get it. Think I¡¯ve said this already, but I don¡¯t blame you for not taking my word for it. Believe it or not, more families are dysfunctional like mine, than close like yours. Even though I barely interacted with them, being here, I¡¯ve realized just how much they truly suck. No chance I¡¯ll go back to living there, even after I reclaim my ALTR. Buncha toxic assholes, I assure you.¡±


    ¡°Why not just break in and take it back?¡± Yuna asked.


    ¡°Perfect example. Way too risky. My Mother¡¯s so vindictive that if she even thought I had the balls to do that, she¡¯d torch my room. And I mean that literally. She once stepped on an action figure Nero left out and all his toys were melted down the next day.¡±


    ¡°Damn.¡±


    ¡°Scary,¡± Leon said.


    ¡°Right?¡± Dante laughed nervously.


    Atop Aegis Industries headquarters, Viktor sat in his desk chair while Artemis stood in front of him. He had a disgruntled expression as his finger tapped in an impatient fashion.


    ¡°They¡¯re clearly lying that the railgun was destroyed in the confrontation described with one of their agents,¡± Artemis said. ¡°It is of little concern that they keep it, however. Unfortunately, we were able to verify the bullet again was found dissolved after penetrating several meters. No new information has come to light. After thorough investigation, there has been no link found between the three victims. The two gangs have been clashing for some time, but the likelihood of either being involved is essentially zero. Furthermore¡ª.¡±


    ¡°You can spare me more.¡± Viktor signaled for Artemis to stop. ¡°So the projectile remains a key missing piece. It¡¯s clear their level of preparation is staggering, to say the least. Is it possible they even wore our suit to mock us, should they be found out?¡±


    ¡°That is a valid theory, Viktor.¡±


    ¡°Could the monthly intervals even be part of their plan? Mere coincidence?¡±


    ¡°Considering their preparedness, I¡¯m willing to validate your hypothesis.¡±


    ¡°Yet we¡¯re still utterly ignorant of their goals. The first was one thing, perhaps a test run? The second served to dismiss suspicion of Argonix involvement, despite the ¡®attack¡¯. But what possible purpose could this third incident achieve?¡±


    ¡°I am unable¡ª¡±


    ¡°I know already, Artemis. Don¡¯t think I¡¯m not aware you only like to play winning hands. The fact that someone as shrewd and talented as you is unable to discern our adversary¡¯s goal is revealing in of itself.¡± Viktor leaned back into his chair. ¡°That¡¯s all, for now. I need to make some calls. Perhaps we should be more proactive in combating this crisis.¡±


    ¡°Understood. I will take my leave.¡± Artemis moved to exit.


    ¡°Oh, and Artemis?¡± Viktor called.


    Artemis paused. ¡°Yes?¡±


    ¡°I want you to know this is my failure, not yours. I¡¯m pleased with your results on other fronts, I¡¯ve been reviewing the numbers.¡±


    ¡°Thank you.¡± Artemis gave a slight nod and left. She headed toward her office.


    ¡°Well, that was a mixed meeting, wasn¡¯t it?¡± Xandr said. ¡°Sure, you¡¯re glad you didn¡¯t have to go into more detail, but that seems more like the Viktor of old.¡±


    ¡°Yes, troublesome,¡± Artemis thought.


    ¡°Don¡¯t underestimate him. That Viktor found me, after all.¡±


    ¡°Of course I know that. It surprised me, I¡¯ll admit.¡±


    ¡°¡¯Proactive¡¯.¡±


    ¡°That is worrying.¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re probably fired, from the investigation, that is.¡±


    ¡°Obviously. I did think it would take more time though, and he¡¯d be more¡­¡±


    ¡°Rattled? Alas, one of Viktor¡¯s greatest strengths was always to acknowledge his own failures. With you being so, well, great, at everything, he dulled. Ironically, you may have reawakened that aspect.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s fine. His fall will be all the greater.¡±


    ¡°Ha. Well, aren¡¯t you optimistic? That¡¯s not like you. Nervous?¡±


    Artemis entered her office and sat in thought.


    ¡°Yes, a little. But not about Viktor. I can handle him.¡±


    ¡°Oh, we¡¯re not done yet?¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re my own imagination, why¡¯re you snarky when I was only for a year, maybe, decades ago?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m your devil¡¯s advocate. Conscience. Or something. Figure it out another time. Now, what¡¯s got you nervous?¡±


    Artemis sighed. ¡°Nervous is an overstatement. It¡¯s just I can¡¯t help but wonder. Did I leave a trail or trace somewhere? Have I overlooked something?¡±


    ¡°Ah, wondering how that Yuna girl managed to confront Aelfric, ay? Wasn¡¯t it just coincidence, probably? I mean, it happened in the last duel, so why not assume it might happen again?¡±


    ¡°No, that¡¯d be wishful thinking. Someone she works with was clever enough to place those sensors.¡±


    ¡°Good thing you left out those parts to Viktor, eh?¡±


    ¡°Quiet. Not only that, for the sensors to have even worked when they surely never were able to inspect the railgun. How did someone so capable end up in a security team for a mid-tier territory duel?¡±


    ¡°Paranoid much?¡±


    ¡°No, no. There¡¯s something. There¡¯s too much at stake to leave this alone.¡±


    ¡°If it¡¯s bothering you so much, why not just kill her off and whoever she associates with?¡±


    ¡°Only short-sighted fools think body counts will solve their problems.¡±


    ¡°Fair enough. Plus that Yuna, assuming it was her, was able to go toe-to-toe with Aelf.¡±


    ¡°Yes, it¡¯d be idiotic to take that fact lightly. But how to proceed¡­how to proceed?


    Later that night, Dante sat alongside Reina-cat in her basement room at Vyx.


    ¡°Seems general physies are a lot more aware this time,¡± Dante said. ¡°I guess since the last one was so public, they¡¯re more inclined to believe rumors of another incident. Some of these conspiracies are giving me a headache, though.¡±


    ¡°Yes, but despite so many more eyes on this, still haven¡¯t been able to find anything substantial, or even credible,¡± Reina said.


    ¡°Yeah, buncha baseless speculation again, just turned up several notches. How¡¯s this Clayshi so ghosty?¡±


    ¡°Going with Yuna¡¯s naming, huh?¡±


    ¡°Well, assassin is a pain in the ass to say over and over. Least it rolls off the tongue.¡±


    ¡°Hmm.¡±


    ¡°Joke went unnoticed, eh?¡±


    ¡°What?¡±


    ¡°Nothin¡¯.¡±


    ¡°Hm.¡± Reina¡¯s screens switched between sites in rapid succession.


    ¡°Jeez. I¡¯m already burnt out while you seem to be reading faster and faster. Despite seeing this a few times, makes my eyes spin. Somehow though, seems even faster than usual? Are you in a rush now because of the whole hired stuff?¡±


    ¡°Yes.¡±


    ¡°Why? Might it not be another month?¡±


    ¡°Possibly, but I can¡¯t risk missing something important along the way. We still don¡¯t know their real objective. Even if it was just ¡®chaos¡¯ so far, there has to be more to it. I¡¯m sure of it. There¡¯s no way there isn¡¯t.¡±


    ¡°Okay. Can¡¯t really disagree, but to go so hard at it?¡±


    ¡°And, what if things are different this time because Yuna was able to confront them? They might change their plans. Something might slip.¡±


    ¡°Fair point. Not sure I can comprehend your eagerness still, though.¡±


    ¡°What do you mean?¡±


    ¡°Well, I vaguely remember your initial reasoning being for Yuna, I think? I¡¯m fuzzy on the specifics.¡±


    ¡°Yes. Yuna was, uhm, heartbroken. For lack of a better term.¡±


    ¡°Right¡­about not fighting ol¡¯ Praetor?¡±


    ¡°Yes.¡±


    ¡°Kinda coming back to me. Don¡¯t really get it but wouldn¡¯t she get over it, eventually? Is it worth so much effort?¡±


    ¡°No. And yes.¡±


    ¡°Guess she does seem even more amped up after her duel. Can¡¯t say I understand going so far for that reason, but I¡¯m in it for my ALTR, so who am I to judge? Back to it, I suppose. Sure miss the days of being ignorant, though.¡± A few moments passed.


    ¡°Dante.¡± Reina¡¯s screens had all paused.


    ¡°Yeah?¡±


    ¡°I want to apologize again for earlier. Even with so much information at my fingertips, I often forget how ignorant I am. I lack real-world experience and am sheltered by my family.¡±


    ¡°Uh, this about that family crap again?¡±


    ¡°Yes. It¡¯s wrong of me¡ª¡±


    ¡°Stop,¡± Dante said emphatically. ¡°Yuna¡¯s right. You overthink some useless crap. First of all, wouldn¡¯t it be paw tips.¡± Reina started giggling. ¡°Secondly, I swear on my ALTR it doesn¡¯t bother me, even a little. And lastly, it¡¯s not like you could run away. Hell, even if you could, they¡¯d hunt you down. Of course, you could always escape into ALTR more. Need only ask.¡± Reina burst into a laughing fit until her sound cut out. A brief silence ensued.


    ¡°I was trying to be funny, but I didn¡¯t think it¡¯d warrant that much laughter, you alright?¡± Dante asked.


    ¡°Ahem. Yes. It¡¯s true it wasn¡¯t that funny,¡± Reina said.


    ¡°Harsh.¡±


    ¡°Yet I can¡¯t help but feel relieved someone other than my family and the twins doesn¡¯t walk on eggshells around me. Even though I¡¯ve known Val for so long, she still often does. As do the rest of Vyxora. And of course, you managed to bring ALTR up, twice. Is it really all you think about?¡±


    ¡°Mostly.¡± Dante shrugged.


    ¡°I admit, I¡¯ve become grateful it exists. Even to just feel the sun on my skin, not that I remember how that feels for real anymore.¡±


    ¡°Eh, sun¡¯s overrated. It¡¯s serious hassle for people as pale as us.¡± Dante spoke nonchalantly as he read a website. Reina¡¯s screens once again relit with activity.


    Am I still doing this just for Yuna? Is there something else, too? Wait. Did Dante say ¡®us¡¯? Reina thought.


    ¡°¡®Us¡¯?¡± Reina-cat turned to Dante.


    Oh, shit. Uhhh, Dante thought during a prolonged silence. Say something, idiot.


    ¡°Why would you think I¡¯m pale?¡±


    ¡°Well, uh, you know. Just makes sense. Cuz of your, uh, condition.¡± Dante stood up. ¡°Be right back, bio break.¡±


    ¡°Stop right there, mister. You¡¯re a terrible liar. You¡¯ve seen me, haven¡¯t you?¡±


    Dante gave an apprehensive nod.


    ¡°How didn¡¯t I realize it sooner?¡± Reina-cat glared at Dante. ¡°When?¡±


    Dante retold of how Celeste had approached him about ALTR and ushered him to see the sleeping Reina.


    ¡°You kinda reminded me of a sleeping pri¡ª¡± Dante stopped himself. Oops, that was close.


    Reina-cat¡¯s front paws covered her cheeks and eyes. ¡°Ughh. Damnit, Mama!¡±

 Ch 11 - A New Tenant

    The next day, late afternoon, Artemis entered Viktor¡¯s office. He sat in the corner chair with a near-empty glass of liquor in his hand. A muted news broadcast played opposite him. The banner at the bottom read ¡®BREAKING: DISTRICT 37 POLICE CHIEF ALVIN RAWLINGS ASSASSINATED MERE HOURS AFTER MECHIS POLITICIAN ELAINE MARREN¡¯. With a simple gesture, the screen turned off as Artemis sat in the adjacent chair. Viktor reached to a nearby table, refilling his glass from the extravagant decanter upon it. He took a sip.


    ¡°Are you aware of the conspiracy quickly gaining popularity?¡± Viktor asked in an emotionless tone. ¡°Knowing you, I¡¯m sure you are. Even with our hold on the news cycle, it¡¯s managed to disseminate. I¡¯d bet you¡¯ve already taken measures, though, haven¡¯t you?¡±


    ¡°Yes,¡± Artemis said.


    ¡°Hm.¡± Viktor gave a slight nod. ¡°Despite starting the victim, to think we would become the most popular suspect. A politician who has spoken against us several times and one of the few police brass not under our thumb. Three killings in such short succession. This all but confirms they¡¯re targeting us, don¡¯t you think?¡± Targeting me.


    ¡°Yes.¡±


    ¡°Yet we¡¯re somehow still so blind.¡± A brief silence passed.


    ¡°Uh-oh, he¡¯s weirdly calm, don¡¯t you think?¡± Xandr asked. ¡°What if he¡¯s figured something out?¡±


    ¡°He hasn¡¯t. I¡¯m sure. But I didn¡¯t expect this demeanor.¡±


    ¡°Do you know my father¡¯s name?¡± Viktor took a hearty swig. Artemis flinched ever so slightly.


    ¡°I do not believe so?¡±


    ¡°The hell¡¯s he on about?¡± Xandr asked.


    ¡°You wouldn¡¯t. In fact, no one remembers his name outside of myself.¡± Viktor¡¯s tone had a subtle shift. ¡°The man died a nobody, not even worthy of a funeral. Not that anyone would have shown up, even had there been one. Not even my mother. Truly a wretch of a woman. She ran away from her wealthy family with the handsome handyman, my father. A rather cliche story. Except she wasn¡¯t willing to leave behind the life she¡¯d grown accustomed to. She became a drunken, abusive existence to us both, all the while wracking up enormous debt. Then she split, leaving that asinine man to work every waking moment to pay those debts. The fool eventually died of exhaustion. Not being particularly memorable in any way, he was forgotten the next day by the world. That was when I swore to leave an unrivaled legacy. I¡¯ve worked tirelessly ever since for that goal. That is how I built the single most powerful corporation on the planet.¡± Viktor turned to Artemis with a resolute expression. ¡°I¡¯ve become complacent, however. I¡¯ll no longer take this threat to my legacy so lightly.¡± Viktor noted the slightest hint of confusion in Artemis¡¯ expression. He glanced at the glass in his hand, then placed it on a nearby table.


    ¡°Forgive me, Artemis. Alcohol really loosens the lips the older you get.¡± Viktor pulled back his sleeve, revealing an exquisite watch on his wrist, then checked the time. ¡°I didn¡¯t mean to bore you with a sudden revelation of my past today. On reflection, I¡¯ve realized I¡¯d come to rely on you too heavily. You¡¯ve proven capable in every single task I¡¯ve ever given. However, it was wrong of me to pass our current predicament off to you. Let me be very clear, Artemis. My trust in you has not changed whatsoever. You simply followed an order given. I¡¯m not so ignorant to know I¡¯ve cultivated an environment where I¡¯m not said no to. Recognizing talent and utilizing it to its fullest potential is how I built this empire. Therefore, I¡¯ve wasted your time when your focus should be on our flagship projects, especially Project Citadel. In turn, I shall devote myself wholly to Project Avalon. I¡¯ve contracted an expert for difficult situations like we find ourselves in. Regardless of our adversaries¡¯ true goals, we¡¯re already losing if we change course for them. Do you agree?¡±


    ¡°Yes.¡±


    ¡°Not even a hint of hesitation. I¡¯m truly fortunate to have you at my side. The contractor should arrive shortly. I¡¯ll introduce you as you will hand off the reins to him later, after I have a discussion with them.¡±


    ¡°I understand.¡±


    ¡°Well, doesn¡¯t that suck eggs? Old Viktor appears alive and well. Going to be a lot more difficult staying ahead of him now, ay, Artemis?¡± Xandr asked.


    ¡°It¡¯s sooner than expected, but still within my predictions,¡± Artemis thought.


    ¡°Aren¡¯t you cool as a cucumber? Not worried about this ¡®contractor¡¯?¡±


    ¡°There¡¯s no point in rushing. And this Viktor is the one we want.¡±


    ¡°I never could get you to flinch. Remember that time I snuck a devil pepper into your sandwich? I swear, you didn¡¯t even blink. By the way, since I¡¯m really just you, you¡¯re probably hungry. Stop skipping meals.¡±


    ¡°Shut up.¡±


    Loud steps emanated from outside the office door. A muffled scream of surprise rang out from the receptionist. Viktor stood as the doors opened. Artemis followed suite. An enormous, hulking figure stepped through. The man appeared over seven feet tall. He wore black gloves, boots, a tailored suit and a long suit coat. Each step conveyed an immense weight. Artemis lifted her head as she scanned him. Black metal comprised where his neck would be. She twitched and resisted an urge to take a step backward at the sight. The man¡¯s face looked like a typical human at a glance. However, upon even minor scrutiny, she recognized it as a molded screen with a digitally rendered image. The realistic, yet digital face, resulted in an unsettling juxtaposition. He had a large-brimmed fedora atop his head. He approached her and held out a hand as he bowed.


    ¡°It¡¯s a pleasure to make your acquaintance, Ms. Artemis Vigard. My name is Siegfried,¡± Siegfried said. The cadence, articulation and tone of his voice startled both Artemis and Viktor. In stark contrast to his appearance, it had the air of a bygone gentleman. After a few moments passed, Artemis accepted his handshake. Despite his hand easily encompassing her own, he shook with a gentle firmness. He held her hand with a soft touch as he looked at her face. ¡°If I may, you are even more beautiful in person. I have watched many of your press conferences.¡± He stood as he withdrew his hand. ¡°Your unflinching reputation is well deserved. It was almost imperceptibly subtle, but I¡¯ve discerned your dislike for flattery, as expected. I will endeavor to respect that. I humbly request your patience as we acclimate to one another; may we work well together.¡± The digital face had an unsettling smile. Artemis, in a slight stupor, stopped herself from almost nodding, followed by a deep blink.


    ¡°I will strive to meet your expectations, Siegfried. Thank you in advance for your assistance,¡± Artemis said.


    ¡°I fear it may prove difficult to avoid flattering you, Ms. Vigard.¡± Siegfried locked a gaze with Artemis for a few moments, then moved to Viktor. His steps were light even though his weight had been conveyed only a short time ago.


    A case of theft: this story is not rightfully on Amazon; if you spot it, report the violation.


    Viktor chuckled as he held out a hand. ¡°I¡¯d heard you were an eccentric fellow, even beyond your appearance, Siegfried. To say I have questions would be an understatement. But one thing I¡¯m sure of is you wanted to show off your ability to read people.¡± Siegfried shook Viktor¡¯s hand.


    ¡°Greetings, Mr. Viktor Weihelm. You are correct, my good sir. Your own renowned ability to guess another¡¯s intentions appears to have merit, as well. And, unlike Ms. Vigard, you quite enjoy flattery.¡±


    ¡°Ha. That¡¯s barely a secret, though. I¡¯ve never understood it myself, but you were able to discern Artemis¡¯ dislike. Something that took me years to realize. That inscrutable woman has the grace to avoid being read, usually. Tell me, how?¡±


    ¡°It is through a combination of factors, sir. No simple feat, I assure you. For it¡¯s only through a marriage between man and machine that I could catch the most subtlest of body language from Ms. Vigard. Albeit, not so much man still remains.¡±


    ¡°Yes, I can see that. It¡¯s rather unsettling, to be frank.¡±


    ¡°My apologies, sir.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m sure I¡¯ll get used to it. Moving on. Artemis.¡± Viktor turned to Artemis. ¡°Siegfried here is a renowned ¡®fixer¡¯ of sorts. He comes highly recommended, having resolved several high-profile incidents. He was even behind Crishima.¡±


    ¡°I lament my failure to achieve adequate results,¡± Artemis said. ¡°However, I may rest assured that someone so capable will be at the helm.¡±


    ¡°You know I dislike repeating myself, Artemis. Your dedication to accountability will harm my pride. One would not hire an electrician to fix their plumbing. This is my failure and I demand you leave it at that. Understood?¡±


    ¡°Yes, Viktor.¡±


    ¡°I have some things to discuss with Siegfried. Please prepare to give him unfettered access later today.¡±


    ¡°Understood. I will excuse myself. Viktor. Siegfried.¡± Artemis exchanged glances with them before strolling to the exit.


    ¡°A pleasure, Ms. Artemis Vigard.¡± Siegfried bowed as Artemis left.


    Artemis returned to her office and sat at her desk in silence for a time. She pressed her thumb onto a sensor beneath her desk. She positioned her face in a deliberate manner. After several seconds, a hidden compartment opened atop the desk. She withdrew a pair of glasses from it and put them on. She connected a wire from her neck to the glasses. Her office lights dimmed. A directory of a few folders appeared in her IRIS. It reacted to her gestures. A folder opened to reveal a video file. A video played on the inner lenses of the glasses. It showed a boy in his mid-teens, wearing a haggard lab coat. The room appeared similar to the one Artemis had read to children in. The boy faced the camera. To his side, a mannequin torso had what looked like body armor on it. Audio played directly into her ears.


    ¡°Xandr, why do you need me for this again?¡± a girl¡¯s voice asked.


    ¡°C¡¯mon Artemis, you have nothing better to do.¡± Xandr brandished a large kitchen knife in one hand, inspecting the blade.


    ¡°I could study, like you should be,¡± Artemis said.


    ¡°Meh! You know how much I hate that archaic, garbage form of learning. What a waste of time. Anyway. The others are too short and can¡¯t keep still. I almost threw up when I watched Simon¡¯s recording of my last test.¡±


    ¡°Fine, fine. Just get this over with.¡±


    ¡°Alrighty then.¡± Xandr turned and pressed the tip of the knife into the body armor. ¡°Wait. Did you turn on the slow-mo?¡±


    ¡°Oh. One second.¡± The video shifted about. Suddenly, a loud knocking of a door rang out. The camera stabilized, recording only a palm. All audio became muffled.


    ¡°Aleks!¡± a young boy yelled. ¡°Marie¡¯s having a night terror again!¡± The clang of the knife falling on a table resounded while hastened foot steps were recorded.


    ¡°Coming!¡± Xandr said. The video shook again, still only recording a palm and capturing muffled audio. A door swung open.


    ¡°Oh, hey Artemis,¡± the boy said. ¡°Didn¡¯t know you were in there, could you¡ª?¡±


    ¡°Not now, Tim,¡± Artemis said.


    ¡°Duh, sorry.¡±


    The recording shook as it captured a rush of footsteps through a home. Then the video showed bedding for a moment until going nigh black. Sheets violently rustled nearby.


    ¡°Marie! Marie! Wake up! It¡¯s okay,¡± Xandr said.


    ¡°No! No! Mommy! Mommy, are you okay? Daddy?¡± Marie cried out.


    ¡°I¡¯ll get her legs, stop her flailing before she hurts herself,¡± Artemis said.


    ¡°Oooh, a smartphone, cooool,¡± Tim said.


    The video showed the young boy¡¯s face for a moment as he inspected the smart phone. He appeared around six years old. He directed the camera, albeit unsteadily, toward a young Artemis, who stood to the side at the foot of a bed.


    ¡°It¡¯s okay, it¡¯s okay. Marie, you¡¯re safe,¡± Xandr said. The video zoomed out as taps Tim¡¯s fingers were heard. Xandr sat on the edge of the bed, with a small girl now clung to him. He patted her back tenderly. She spoke, but her bawling made it indecipherable. ¡°I know. It doesn¡¯t make sense.¡± He embraced her tightly. ¡°I know.¡± The video zoomed in on Xandr¡¯s face. He had glassy eyes, but at the same time they conveyed a fiery resolve. The video zoomed out again. Artemis watched on with a muted expression. Then various video filters applied, adding animal ears, demon horns and a tail to Artemis and Xandr. The video paused and rewound to Xandr¡¯s face before pausing again.


    ¡°You still have this?¡± Xandr asked. ¡°You know you could clip this to be more poignant, don¡¯t you think?¡±


    ¡°Context is important,¡± Artemis thought.


    ¡°At least the filters part, then. They kinda ruin the moment. Although I¡¯m a rather handsome devil, I¡¯ll admit. Is this when you fell for me?¡±


    Artemis sighed. ¡°You were being quiet. It¡¯s preferable.¡±


    ¡°You were consuming all the processing power.¡±


    ¡°We¡¯ve already established you¡¯re just a figment of my imagination. Why do I continue to engage with you?¡±


    ¡°Because you have no one else.¡±


    ¡°Hm.¡±


    ¡°So, the hell was that ¡®Siegfried¡¯?¡±


    ¡°He must be from them.¡±


    ¡°Ahh.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯d hoped to be further along.¡±


    ¡°Are you worried?¡±


    ¡°No. I shouldn¡¯t underestimate him, as he must be exceedingly capable to have resolved Crishima. Still, I¡¯ve accounted for this.¡±


    ¡°Have you now?¡±


    ¡°We¡¯ll let things cool off much longer this time. Aelfric will begin his infiltration. I will ascertain Siegfried¡¯s methods and capabilities while pushing forward Citadel, the new Aegis.¡±


    ¡°Aren¡¯t you more worried about the Viktor of old¡¯s resurgence? Reminded me of how he was when I met him.¡±


    ¡°It makes things more difficult, of course. But he¡¯s obsessed with his city plans. It¡¯s better this way. He¡¯ll devote more time than ever. It will mean more. ¡±


    ¡°Do you wonder how the real me would view your crusade?¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t care.¡±


    ¡°I believe that. But when Viktor¡¯s off the table, what if you become empty? Will you really be able to continue? You should find something else to fill your life. You know that¡¯s what I¡¯d truly want. Now would be the perfect time, still time to turn back.¡±


    ¡°If that¡¯s the pathetic extent the manifestation of my doubts can muster, I¡¯m not worried.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s hurtful. I tried.¡±


    ¡°The real you would¡¯ve been more sentimental.¡±


    ¡°True. Aren¡¯t you more worried about Aelfric? He¡¯s not great with, you know, people.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s a risk. But he dedicates himself to every task I¡¯ve ever given. He wouldn¡¯t admit it, but he wants to understand if their interruption was merely a fluke, or something more, especially if it¡¯s his fault. It would weigh on him. We must know, either way.¡±


    ¡°I suppose. Well, I¡¯ve bothered you enough for now. Issue away.¡±


    ¡°Wait. Do you¡ª? No. Nevermind. You wouldn¡¯t know¡­ you¡¯re me.¡±


    Several days later, Celeste darted about a small, empty apartment room at Vyxora. She tested light switches, water and appliances until returning to the front door. She opened it. There stood a disheveled Aelfric. In drastic contrast to his usual appearance, he looked as if he hadn¡¯t showered in many days. His clothes were tattered and he had a general stupor to his demeanor. He had a backpack, with nothing else.


    ¡°Was it Alphonse, hun?¡± Celeste asked.


    ¡°Yes, ma¡¯am,¡± Aelfric said.


    ¡°Just Celeste, hun. It¡¯s a bit dusty, but everything seems to be working. My apologies for not getting things more ship-shape.¡±


    ¡°Understood. Do not fret on my account, Ma¡ª. Celeste. I am the one imposing.¡±


    Celeste had a curious expression. ¡°Well then, we can hammer out the details later, you look like you could use a shower.¡± She stepped out while nudging Aelfric into the room.


    ¡°Your hospitality is greatly appreciated.¡± Aelfric brought an arm perpendicular to his chest and gave a deep bow. Celeste had a puzzled expression.


    ¡°Uh-huh. You¡¯re welcome, hun. Let me know if you need anything.¡±


    ¡°Thank you, I will.¡± Aelfric remained bowed as Celeste shut the door. He stood and glanced around. I think that went well? Although. Would a recovering drug addict speak so politely? I may have erred. This will be difficult.

 Chapter 12 - Honor in ALTR

    Yuna stood on the balcony of a dojo atop a mountain, bathed in the setting sun¡¯s warm glow. She marveled at the sensation of a calm, cooling breeze washing over her. A grandiose castle embedded into the mountain loomed over the dojo.


    ¡°It feels so real. Crazy.¡± Yuna flitted a hand about the breeze.


    ¡°It¡¯s a passable ALTRscape, for now. Usually, people are known to freak out a bit more,¡± said a calming girl¡¯s voice. Yuna turned to see an attractive girl with cat ears and a tail.


    ¡°Who the fuck¡¯re you?¡±


    ¡°Huh?¡± The girl ran their hand through their hair, brushing over an ear. ¡°Oh. Whoops. Forgot I used this one last. Allie, wardrobe please.¡± A woman in a maid costume appeared nearby with a curtsy.


    ¡°Yes, master,¡± Allie said. A wardrobe manifested in front of the girl. She turned briefly to a bewildered Yuna.


    ¡°I¡¯m Dante, by the way,¡± the girl said. She opened the wardrobe, and an interface projected out.


    ¡°Dante? What kinda weird shit are you into? Why¡¯re you a girl¡­with cat ears? Is that a tail?¡± Yuna asked.


    ¡°Best to let those small-minded thoughts from the physie world drift away. In ALTR, you can be whatever you want. You¡¯ll see all kinds of crazy avatars. Some like to stick to one or a few. Personally, I enjoy switching it up pretty often. Yesterday I was a cute cat girl. Today I¡¯ll be Dante-ish and tomorrow maybe a werewolf or something. Sadly, I¡¯ve only recreated a few of my avys from memory. All my great ones are locked away at home.¡± Dante swiped his hand through several high quality holographic projections displaying different humanoid avatar forms.


    ¡°Hmm.¡± Yuna slipped into thought.


    ¡°Here we go.¡± Dante tapped a hologram. In an instant, the cat girl switched to Dante. Yuna watched in awe. The Dante-esque avatar had some noticeable differences from its physical counterpart. ¡°See?¡±


    ¡°You seem¡­ different.¡±


    ¡°Of course. I¡¯m ripped,¡± Dante flexed, ¡°and a little more handsome.¡±


    ¡°Shouldn¡¯t you be a little more shameful? Saying that?¡±


    ¡°Nope.¡±


    ¡°Are you taller than me now?¡± Yuna closed in, inspecting Dante before eyeballing their heights. ¡°So strange.¡±


    ¡°Maybe.¡±


    Yuna punched Dante¡¯s midsection. ¡°What the, you¡¯ve even got abs?¡±


    Dante appeared unfazed. ¡°Of course. Thanks, Allie. That¡¯ll be all for now.¡± Allie curtsied, then disappeared. It was a good idea to preemptively disable pain.


    ¡°Oh, I was so busy being weirded out by your cat fetish that I didn¡¯t even ask who that was?¡±


    ¡°Allie. There¡¯s an ¡®Al¡¯, too. AI-assistant you can change to your liking in ALTR.¡±


    ¡°And she was in a maid outfit, because?¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s cute.¡±


    ¡°Weirding me out how shameless you¡¯re being.¡±


    ¡°Shame¡¯s for physies. Embrace it. Anyway. I have to admit, I¡¯m impressed by how well you¡¯re taking this all in.¡±


    ¡°What¡¯s that supposed to mean?¡±


    ¡°There¡¯s that quick temper. Settle down. Most first-timers get pretty overwhelmed by the sensations. After all, it really feels like the breeze is cascading over us while the sun sets, doesn¡¯t it?¡±


    ¡°Yeah¡­¡±


    ¡°Reina freaked out for about thirty seconds, but then acted like it never happened and started feeling everything she could touch.¡±


    ¡°Seriously? That¡¯s so her.¡± Yuna laughed. ¡°Wish I could¡¯ve seen that. You played along, though, right?¡±


    ¡°I know I¡¯m not good at social norms, but even I¡¯m not such an ass.¡±


    ¡°Good.¡± Yuna returned to basking in the sunlight as she stretched. ¡°She gets embarrassed easily, but hides it real well. And if she doesn¡¯t, she pretends whatever it was, didn¡¯t happen. Just another of my favorite Reinaisms.¡±


    ¡°Uh-huh. The closeness of you two is somethin¡¯ else.¡± Dante shook his head. ¡°By the way, I just remembered I recorded Reina, had meant to give it to Celeste. I forgot.¡±


    ¡°Show me, show me.¡± Yuna dashed to Dante in an instant in excitement.


    ¡°Remind me later, so I remember to give it to Celeste, too.¡±


    Yuna grumbled. ¡°Fine. What took you so long, anyway? What¡¯s it been, like, thirty minutes? I had that account and avy junk. What¡¯s your excuse?¡±


    ¡°Ah, yeah. Sorry about that. I had to do some stuff, there was a limited-time event in¡ª.¡± Dante stopped. He reluctantly met Yuna¡¯s piercing gaze. She blinked and withdrew to his relief.


    ¡°I should be more annoyed, but I¡¯ll let you off the hook since you¡¯re helping me. Where even are we?¡±


    ¡°Appreciated. This.¡± Dante gestured around to the castle and surrounding area. ¡°Is my temporary home. Ahh. Wish you could see my actual one. This place¡¯s basically empty. Anyhoo. I did think up some places to visit while waiting for my event, for you to choose where to take Reina.¡±


    ¡°They better be good. Even you can tell, right? She needs to de-stress asap.¡±


    ¡°Yeah, she keeps turning down my ALTR invitations.¡±


    It¡¯s already been over a month, Reina, Yuna thought. Why¡¯re you running yourself so ragged? I can already see why your smile was so bright when you told me about this place. So why haven¡¯t you been coming back?


    ¡°I know a world with a pretty cool city beneath an ocean that really blows away newbies. It could be¡ª.¡±


    ¡°You¡¯ve been helping her, right?¡±


    ¡°Huh? Reina? Kinda, I guess.¡±


    ¡°Do you know why she¡¯s so determined?¡±


    ¡°Uh, you? Also, isn¡¯t she just a workaholic? Not that I can relate.¡±


    ¡°Give me some credit, asshole. I¡¯m not stupid enough to not realize she has me in mind.¡±


    ¡°My bad.¡±


    ¡°But I¡¯ve been actively suppressing my¡ª¡±


    ¡°Bloodlust?¡±


    Yuna sighed. ¡°Yeah.¡±


    ¡°True, you have seemed more chill. Less prone to violent outbursts. Fewer threats and tantrums. Huh. Kinda surprising, thinking back.¡±


    ¡°That can be changed, asshat.¡±


    ¡°Settle down, I was just agreeing.¡±


    ¡°You¡¯ve got a real attitude in here, don¡¯tcha, pal? Don¡¯t forget, I¡¯m within arm¡¯s length in the real world.¡±


    ¡°Threat received.¡±


    ¡°Is work and me really all that¡¯s driving her?¡±


    ¡°Well¡­¡±


    ¡°Spit it out.¡±


    ¡°I can¡¯t say for sure, but she might be obsessed with the hunt. Even though I hated my work for the Legion, I fell down the rabbit hole occasionally.¡±


    ¡°¡®Hunt¡¯? ¡®Rabbit hole¡¯? What?¡±


    ¡°Hmm. So, say you really really want to find something. As if you¡¯re tracking prey. You pull thread after thread, follow trail after trail. Problem is, the net¡¯s unfathomably big. So there¡¯s almost always another hole you can fall into. Y¡¯kno?¡±


    Royal Road is the home of this novel. Visit there to read the original and support the author.


    ¡°So she¡¯s like Inspector Copinious?¡± Yuna mumbled under her breath.


    ¡°Yeah, pretty much. You a fan?¡±


    ¡°You heard me?¡± Yuna asked. Dante nodded. ¡°Fine, so what if I am?¡±


    ¡°I prefer Zed-files myself, but it¡¯s surprising you watch that. Anything else?¡±


    ¡°Full¡ª.¡± An alarm went off, interrupting Yuna. Dante stopped it.


    ¡°Ah, damnit, I¡¯m gonna miss this round. I¡¯ve gotta wrap this up.¡±


    ¡°You mother¡ª.¡± Yuna had a furious expression that went unnoticed by Dante as he continued on about the underwater city and more.


    ¡°So, just ask Allie for more details if you need to. I got somewhere to be before my raid later.¡±


    Yuna grabbed Dante¡¯s shoulder. ¡°Wait, you son of a bitch. Your attitude¡¯s really pissing me off, but I¡¯m trying to remain calm because I asked for help. I just realized, though, I made my avatar like me without thinking about it. But this ¡®underwater city¡¯ is gonna have other people there, right?¡±


    ¡°Yeah, so?¡±


    ¡°You don¡¯t see an obvious problem with that?¡±


    ¡°No?¡±


    ¡°How the fuck can¡¯t you? You don¡¯t think people are gonna freak out?¡±


    ¡°About what?¡±


    ¡°Me! My face! Have you somehow still not realized what I am?¡±


    ¡°I mean, you can sport a pretty intimidating scowl, but¡­¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m Hrewim, you fucking idiot!¡±


    ¡°Uh, you¡¯re what now?¡±


    ¡°You god-damned.¡± Yuna pulled back her fist until she saw Dante¡¯s bewildered expression. Her arm fell to her side. ¡°Thinking back, you didn¡¯t react when you first saw me, either. Do you really not know? I thought you had to of realized by now, but didn¡¯t care or something. This unique hair and eye color that literally sends people screaming?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m very lost. I wouldn¡¯t say it¡¯s common, but I¡¯ve seen plenty of that combo in ALTR. Can¡¯t recall any panic, though?¡± Dante noticed Yuna¡¯s dumbfounded expression. ¡°Allie, what is ¡®Hrewim¡¯?¡± Allie appeared nearby.


    ¡°The Hrewim were an ethnic minority that became infamous as a paramilitary religious organization who orchestrated several high-profile terrorist attacks. Compared to most ethnicities in a post-Aegis day world, they were easily identifiable by their snow-white hair and amethyst-hued eyes,¡± Allie said. ¡°Shall I continue, Master Dante?¡±


    ¡°Ooh. Kinda sounds familiar. When was that, Allie?¡±


    ¡°The Hrewim were active between twenty forty-six and twenty fifty-three. Mercenary groups hired by a government coalition successfully ceased Hrewim activities in twenty fifty-four.¡±


    ¡°Ahh¡­ that¡¯s around when I got into ALTR. No wonder. Wait, what about your family?¡±


    Yuna had a quizzical expression. ¡°Are you a dumbass? Have you really not realized I¡¯m adopted? It¡¯s pretty fuckin¡¯ obvious. Thought you were smarter than this?¡±


    ¡°Huh. Nah, I just¡ª.¡± Dante cut himself off. Don¡¯t care. Yeah¡­ best I not say that out loud. Gotta admit I¡¯m curious now, though.


    ¡°You just what?¡±


    ¡°Didn¡¯t think about it. You¡¯re all so close. Like I wouldn¡¯t believe it if I didn¡¯t see it, close. Especially not coming from my family.¡±


    ¡°Sure.¡± Yuna had a suspicious glare. ¡°Is what you said true? About people running around looking like me?¡±


    ¡°Yeah. Nothin¡¯ special.¡±


    ¡°Hmph.¡± Is it really possible people have forgotten, or just don¡¯t care anymore?


    ¡°So, you¡¯ve sparked my curiosity. What happened? How¡¯d you become part of the Vyx?¡±


    ¡°None of your fuckin¡¯ business. Why should I tell you?¡±


    ¡°Oh.¡± Hmm, now I¡¯m even more curious. Usually characters are all for divulging their origins when asked in games or shows. Unless it was traumatic? Dante glanced over Yuna. She appeared preoccupied in thought. No way. I really can¡¯t picture Yuna of all people being traumatized. Although, maybe that could be connected to her rage issues? Such characters do often act out. Hmm.


    ¡°Hey,¡± Yuna said. Dante gave no response. ¡°Hey!¡±


    ¡°Yeah?¡± Dante asked.


    ¡°Why do people go around looking like Hrewim?¡±


    ¡°Huh? I dunno. I assume because they like the look?¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s it?¡±


    ¡°Well, can¡¯t say I¡¯ve ever asked. Probably the main reason, though.¡±


    ¡°Weird.¡±


    ¡°If I consider what you¡¯ve said, I¡¯d be surprised if anyone cares IRL, either. Ancient history at this point. Anyway, it¡¯s not as easy as editing your avy here but if the look bothers you in the physie world, why not change it? Not all that hard these days.¡±


    ¡°I have my reasons.¡±


    Huh. She doesn¡¯t seem angry? Dante thought. Yuna stood in thought. In retrospect, that was a really dumb question I just asked, and she didn¡¯t flip out? Damn, now I really wanna know. But I get the feeling she won¡¯t divulge anything if I just ask. Maybe I could just ask Reina? Nah, she wouldn¡¯t share if Yuna¡¯s not okay with it.


    ¡°Whatever. I¡¯ll just ask one for myself,¡± Yuna said. ¡°No use wasting time guessing. Hey, let¡¯s get back to the Reina plans.¡±


    Ah, snap, it¡¯s gonna bug the hell outta me if I don¡¯t learn her origins. Heck, even more interesting, now that I think of it? Allie spoke in past tense, implying they were all wiped out. Gotta think of something. Dante glanced around the area until noticing an impatient glare from Yuna, then the floor caught his eye. We¡¯re in a dojo, of course!


    ¡°Before that,¡± Dante said, ¡°what would you say to a duel you have no chance of winning?¡±


    ¡°What did you just say?¡± Yuna said.


    ¡°After I win, you¡¯ll tell me more of your origin story.¡±


    ¡°What? Why do you care suddenly?¡±


    ¡°Is it too sensitive to share?¡±


    Yuna made a quick movement, then gestured at Dante, as if gripping her dagger. ¡°You better not be thinking I¡¯m traumatized or some other pussy ass garbage.¡±


    ¡°Then could you tell me how you ended up in Vyx?¡±


    ¡°Your dumbass self didn¡¯t even realize I was obviously adopted. Why care now?¡±


    ¡°True, I outright devote energy to actively not caring about physie stuff. But. How couldn¡¯t I be curious? Aren¡¯t you like the last of your kind? That¡¯s prime story material.¡±


    Yuna sighed. ¡°That is why I don¡¯t want to. Not some trauma bullshit. My ethnicity, or whatever, quit bothering me a long time ago, but it was a huge pain in the ass when I told Val. She kept asking fuckin¡¯ questions. Gives me a headache just thinking about it.¡± She shook her head.


    ¡°Huh. Well¡­ it¡¯s gonna really bother me if I don¡¯t find out now. So, duel?¡±


    ¡°It irritates me you know me well enough to be pushing my buttons. I know I¡¯m being tricked, you sly fuck, but your attitude here is pissing me off.¡± Yuna stretched in habit. ¡°And if I win?¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re in my world now.¡± Dante pointed at Yuna. She raised a disapproving brow. ¡°Sorry, couldn¡¯t resist. Anyway. Whatever you want. You can even choose post-win.¡±


    Yuna laughed. ¡°Hard to believe you¡¯re the same wimp as outside. Gonna make you regret it. You¡¯re on, motherfucker.¡±


    Dante walked some distance away. Sync rate can take days, even weeks. I feel a little shame not telling her and hopefully she won¡¯t punish me IRL, but I¡¯m somehow even more curious now after she said no to trauma.


    Yuna jumped a few times as she warmed up. ¡°Rules?¡±


    ¡°None, really. Fine with fisticuffs?¡±


    ¡°Of course.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯ll be slightly game-y obviously. Allie, initiate honor duel. Rules package: brawl.¡±


    ¡°Yes, Master Dante.¡± Allie said. The building surrounding the dojo disappeared, leaving only the floor.


    ¡°Let¡¯s see.¡± A projection of location pictures appeared in front of Dante. With each swipe of his hand, the surrounding area changed between a jungle, the moon, ocean and more. He glanced over to see a dazed Yuna. ¡°Oh, my bad, any preference?¡±


    ¡°Can you feel nauseous here?¡± Yuna cupped her mouth.


    ¡°Er, my bad. Forgot how it can be for a newbie. Let¡¯s just go with some good ol¡¯ plains.¡± The surrounding area changed into a serene, wide-open plain as far as the eye could see. A gentle wind washed over them. Yuna exhaled in relief. ¡°If you put your fingers to your temple like so.¡± Dante placed his index and middle finger to his temple. ¡°You¡¯ll see some settings pop-up. You should see a health bar by now. Can move it if you want. There are also sliders for blood, pain levels, etcetera. Take a bit, I¡¯ll wait.¡± She followed suite, set sliders to max and exited. ¡°Uhh, you know you put pain to max, right?¡±


    ¡°Hell yeah.¡±


    ¡°Those settings only affect you, by the way.¡±


    Yuna shrugged. ¡°Let¡¯s do this.¡±


    Dante shook his head. Have I ever even played with maxed pain? Hope I don¡¯t regret this. She might retaliate IRL.


    Dante and Yuna faced one another in stances. Allie appeared equidistant between them.


    ¡°Are the¡ª?¡± Allie asked.


    ¡°Skip the spiel, Allie,¡± Dante said.


    ¡°Understood, Master Dante. Begin!¡±


    In an instant, Dante appeared in front of Yuna with a lunging strike at her chest, sending her flying. She landed, then tumbled backwards with sluggish motions into a kneeling position. He approached with a kick primed, only to halt. She coughed up blood onto her right arm, which crossed over her chest. Her wrist fell limp.


    What the? Did she really manage to partially block that? Her sync rate, though? Wait a minute. Her wrist? Dante thought.


    ¡°Hey! Your wrist! Did you seriously enable bone damage? It¡¯s off by default and buried in the options for a reason! Only masochists turn that shit on. Are you insane?¡± Dante asked.


    ¡°Pain¡­¡± Yuna used her left arm as a brace as she executed a sweeping kick at Dante. However, her movements were so comparatively slow that he stepped back, dodging with ease. ¡°¡­teaches.¡± She followed up by moving to her feet.


    Fuck. Knew she was crazy, but damn. Better just end this like ripping off a bandaid, Dante thought.


    Dante closed the distance between them in a flash, striking Yuna¡¯s shoulder and sending her reeling. He followed up with several more blows to her body. She attempted to block, however, by the time she moved, another punch would land elsewhere. He then grappled her shoulders, throwing her downward to her side. Before she hit the ground, he kicked her upward and jumped. He flipped forward, swinging one heel all the way around into her chest, rocketing her into the ground. As she bounced from the springy plain, Allie announced ¡®Flawless Victory!¡¯. By the time she landed, all signs of injury disappeared. She had an intense grimace for a moment as Dante landed nearby. She then sat up in a confused daze, checking her body.


    ¡°You, uh, alright?¡± Dante approached in hesitation. Yuna stopped, took a deep breath, and exhaled.


    ¡°Sit.¡± Yuna pointed to the ground in front of her. Dante acquiesced with an uneasy expression. ¡°It¡¯s just all gone, that intense pain? Can¡¯t remember last time I felt that much. Guess it makes sense.¡± She flexed her previously broken hand. She glanced at him, noticing his demeanor.


    ¡°What¡¯s got you so spooked?¡± Yuna asked. Her calm tone caused visible surprise on Dante¡¯s face.


    ¡°You seem¡­ not you?¡±


    ¡°Thinking because of my temper, I¡¯d be a sore loser?¡±


    ¡°Maybe?¡±


    ¡°Lucky you. After what you pulled, I should be. Believe it or not, I take pride in not being a sore loser. I¡¯ll keep up my end. But, before I do, explain why I moved so slow?¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re really not mad?¡±


    ¡°I will be if you make me repeat myself.¡±


    ¡°Okay, okay. So, uh, here¡¯s the thing. Your sync rate is probably pretty low. Especially since this is your first time in ALTR. Though, you really surprised me with that first block. I wasn¡¯t holding back, speed-wise, at least.¡±


    ¡°¡®Sync rate¡¯? I¡¯m not Reina. Explain better.¡±


    ¡°Right, sorry. To put it as simply as I can think of, ALTR reads, intercepts and sends signals to and from your brain. It needs to kind of ¡®learn¡¯ you. It usually takes days, even weeks or more, depending on the device and a bunch of other junk.¡±


    ¡°So that¡¯s where that cockiness came from. I never had a chance, did I?¡±


    ¡°Nope. Really, even if you were synced, I¡¯d probably still win,¡± Dante boasted. He glanced at Yuna, noticing an oppressive glare. ¡°Oops.¡±


    ¡°Too late. You¡¯re gonna regret wanting to know more about me.¡± Yuna chuckled with a devilish smirk as she cracked her knuckles.

 Chapter 13 - Y074

    On a chilled spring morning, half a dozen children stood on a plateau outside a complex built into a mountain. They paired off across one another in two perpendicular rows before moving into combat stances, each brandishing transarm knives. They all had white hair and purple eyes. Scars in various stages of healing glimmered in the morning sunlight, littering their small bodies. Several adults with the same hair and eyes stood some distance away, conversing. A boy and girl pair farthest from the adults gestured to one another. The boy mouthed ¡®please¡¯ with a pleading expression. The girl exhaled and closed her eyes for a moment. She opened them, glanced at the adults, then gestured to her forearm and mouthed ¡®cut¡¯. The boy nodded.


    ¡°Begin!¡± a man shouted.


    The children crossed blades as they fought one another. After a brief time passed, the boy slashed the girl¡¯s arm where she had indicated prior.


    ¡°You motherfucker!¡± the girl screamed. Over the course of the next few seconds, the boy blocked only a few lethal strikes until the girl¡¯s blade pierced his chest. He spit up blood onto her shoulder.


    ¡°Tha¡­nks¡­ y zero,¡± the boy whispered as the life faded from his eyes. The girl pulled out the knife as she shoved him away.


    ¡°God damnit, Y074, again?¡± a man shouted as he rushed over. The girl stood with a resolute expression as she wiped the blade on her shirt.


    Nah, he doesn¡¯t need to know that crap, Yuna thought.


    ¡°Hello? Yuna?¡± Dante asked. Yuna¡¯s mind returned to her current self in ALTR. She opened her eyes.


    ¡°Hold on, thinking of where to start. Was just remembering something I hadn¡¯t thought of in a while. You gonna complain if I stick to broad strokes?¡±


    ¡°Uh, I guess not?¡±


    ¡°Good. So, the Hrewim were a bunch of fuckin¡¯ dipshits. They were a minuscule ethnic group that had a unique reaction to the Aegis virus. Hence the hair and eye color.¡±


    ¡°No kidding? Funny how much people used to care about color. Though they just found other things to be tribal about.¡±


    ¡°People will always suck, but don¡¯t interrupt me, ass, I¡¯ll lose my train of thought. The important part is that most of them proved immune or whatever to the changes. I don¡¯t even know how it all started and couldn¡¯t care less, but the pack of morons convinced themselves they were special. Some kids, like me, did however get the fancy bulletproof, etcetera skin. I really only know this junk after the fact, obviously. I never met any parents and my earliest memories are training in a secret mountain base. Yes, really, and no, I¡¯m not going into detail. I assume the leader was pretty charismatic because the instructors would harp on about stupid chosen one shit even while they abused us. Religious tones, I guess? They were definitely cult-y. I¡¯ve seen enough dramas to recognize that by now. Couldn¡¯t tell you specifics even if I wanted to. If I ever knew, I¡¯ve forgotten and have no interest in remembering. Blah, blah, blah; they were training us to be assassins for the cult.¡±


    ¡°Whoa, damn, really? That sounds similar to one of my favorite shows, The Shadowed Chronicles.¡±


    ¡°Probably¡¯s loosely based on it. I¡¯ve avoided such media, but someone churned out a bunch of crap about the Hrewim. Reina told me they were the perfect bad guys for a while. Racial supremacists, a cult, terrorists, whatever else.¡±


    ¡°Damn, sorry. I never realized.¡±


    ¡°I really can not emphasize more how much I don¡¯t care. Val became really fucking annoying for a while after I told her this stuff. You better not do the same.¡± Yuna pointed at Dante.


    ¡°Okay, okay, I got it.¡± Dante made a submissive gesture with his hands.


    ¡°Wait, that shadow whatever shit¡¯s a favorite show? How didn¡¯t you realize, then?¡±


    ¡°Huh? Oh. Uhh. I¡¯m kinda always moving on from world to world. I rarely look into behind the scenes and whatnot. I¡¯d forgotten about the show until just now, honestly, even though it was one of my favorites.¡±


    ¡°Hmph.¡±


    ¡°So, a child assassin, huh? Crazy. Is that how you got all those scars?¡±


    ¡°Some, yeah, you¡¯ve gotta cut pretty deep. They tested on us. Or punishment.¡±


    ¡°Goddamn. Makes me feel like a real asshat thinking my childhood sucked.¡± Dante shook his head.


    ¡°Last warning to avoid pitying me.¡±


    ¡°Right, right. I was kinda afraid to ask, but I¡¯ve been wondering about something since I saw them. How come you haven¡¯t just got them removed? At least, I think it¡¯s kinda painless these days?¡±


    ¡°I promised Reina I would, but only after she gets a new, or repaired, body. I¡¯m not wasting money on superficial nonsense until then.¡±


    ¡°Wow.¡± Dante shook his head.


    ¡°What is it now?¡±


    ¡°Oh, nothing. It¡¯s just I legit can¡¯t fathom being so close with one of my siblings. And, you¡¯re not even blood-related, turns out.¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t get what blood has to do with it, but I wouldn¡¯t even be here without her.¡±


    ¡°Nevermind. I¡¯m real curious now though how you ended up with the Vyx. Were you, like, sent out to assassinate Leon and failed, but he thwarted the attempt and then took you under his wing?¡±


    ¡°Why would you say that?¡± Yuna had a surprised expression.


    ¡°It¡¯s a trope I¡¯ve encountered a few times in stories. Always thought it was kind of unrealistic, though.¡±


    ¡°Well, it¡¯s not too far off. But. We¡¯re stopping.¡±


    ¡°Huh? No way, why?¡±


    ¡°You only said ¡®more¡¯. So, if you want even more, you¡¯ll duel me again.¡±


    ¡°I mean¡­¡± Dante recalled his offer. ¡°Technically, that¡¯s true, but come on. Thought you said you weren¡¯t a sore loser?¡±


    ¡°Not my fault you weren¡¯t careful with your words. I¡¯ll gift you another tidbit, I don¡¯t give up. It took me hundreds of tries to get the drop on Pops, but I did.¡±


    ¡°Let me guess, countless of those morning sparring sessions, too?¡±


    ¡°Yup.¡± Yuna jumped to her feet and stretched.


    ¡°Fuck. This is what you meant by ¡®regret¡¯, isn¡¯t it?¡±


    ¡°Yuuup.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s gonna end just as quickly. Do we really have to? And, you know stretching isn¡¯t doing anything, right? Even if you can feel it.¡± Dante stood.


    ¡°Yes. And I¡¯m not that dumb, ass. It¡¯s a concentration thing.¡±


    ¡°Damnit, fine, let¡¯s get this over with.¡± They moved to their positions while Dante instructed Allie again. ¡°Hey, will you at least turn off the bone breaking and turn down the pain? Otherwise, I¡¯m going to feel like a sadist.¡±


    ¡°Such a lil¡¯ bitch. Fine.¡± Yuna brought up the settings and made some gestures.


    Their duel soon began again, playing out almost the same. Yuna defended a bit, absorbing a kick from Dante with her arm. It fell limp, clearly broken, after. Then, a split-second before he dealt a final blow, she landed a kick to his side that went unnoticed.


    ¡°Victory!¡± announced a voice.


    ¡°Huh?¡± Dante glanced at his HUD. He noticed a chunk missing from his health bar. What the? She seriously landed a hit? He glanced at Yuna, who sat upright a short distance away. Was it just a fluke? Surely her sync rate couldn¡¯t have improved so much? It already seemed abnormally high. She gestured again for him to sit. He meandered over.


    ¡°It¡¯s a shame you don¡¯t have that body in the real world. We could have some real fun,¡± Yuna said. Dante sat.


    ¡°Hard pass.¡±


    ¡°Figured. Anyway, where were we?¡±


    ¡°How you met Leon, I assume. Wait, uh, you don¡¯t have to answer if you don¡¯t want to. Did you, you know, assassinate anyone?¡±


    The narrative has been stolen; if detected on Amazon, report the infringement.


    ¡°Alright. I didn¡¯t, technically. Around the time they were going to send me out, I was the only one left at the facility. Turned out, the pack of morons pushed their luck way too far. I only learned this later that they killed some corpo¡¯s kid in a bombing. So the gov and corps created that coalition your maid mentioned. Don¡¯t much care to know all the details myself, but the merc groups wiped out most of the Hrewim real quick. Some retreated to my facility and were in a constant panic. None of it really registered to me at the time. It wouldn¡¯t have been the first of their attacks at this point. And, before they even knew what hit them, boom! Mercs raided the place and did me a real favor. Head asshat instructor ordered me to protect him, can¡¯t even remember his name, or face anymore. Saw my chance. Slit the fucker¡¯s throat and escaped as the rest of the dumbasses were gunned down. The end.¡±


    ¡°Damn, that¡¯s crazy. Can¡¯t even imagine. Wait a minute, ¡®the end¡¯? What about Leon? Didn¡¯t he show up?¡±


    ¡°He was probably there, never have actually asked. It¡¯s time for round three, if you want to know more.¡±


    ¡°Oh, come on. That wasn¡¯t even that much! You barely talked for a few minutes.¡±


    ¡°Never claimed I was a good storyteller.¡± Yuna shrugged with a smirk as she stood.


    ¡°Sonuva bitch. Well, you sure leave out a lot, but you¡¯re good at cliffhangers, jeez. So does that mean Leon was part of the merc groups, then?¡±


    ¡°Yeah. He was the leader of one. Wasn¡¯t that mentioned to you already? Whatever. Forget their name. Pretty legendary group, though, supposedly.¡±


    ¡°How don¡¯t you know?¡± Dante stood and moved to his spot again.


    ¡°I do, or did. I forgot. Plus, Pops isn¡¯t much of a talker if you hadn¡¯t noticed.¡± Yuna moved to her spot and into a stance, gesturing to begin. ¡°And I¡¯ve always sensed the past should stay where it is from him.¡±


    ¡°True. Uh-uh. Don¡¯t think I didn¡¯t notice last match. I don¡¯t care if you¡¯re a masochist. I¡¯m not okay with dealing out that pain. Allie! Admin override. Set user ¡®Yuna¡¯ to profile D.¡±


    ¡°Oh, come on, you bitch. It heals up right after. What¡¯s the big deal? It¡¯s a great teacher.¡±


    ¡°I left it at fifty percent, alright? This is way too one-sided to continue like that.¡±


    ¡°What¡¯re you at?¡±


    ¡°Five.¡±


    ¡°What a wuss.¡± Yuna turned away and opened the settings.


    ¡°Don¡¯t bother, they¡¯re locked. Let¡¯s get this over with.¡±


    Yuna initiated the duel this time, sprinting toward Dante. However, he met her with a lightning-quick strike. A short time passed as a similar fight to the previous played out. She sat waiting nearby, having been knocked away again. He walked over.


    Two hits and almost a third, Dante thought. How¡¯s she improving like this? Is she speeding up her sync rate through sheer will? Is that even possible? He shook his head as he sat again.


    ¡°They taught some basic skills for the outside world, for blending in and whatever, you know?¡± Yuna said. Dante appeared startled for a moment at her beginning without prompt. ¡°So I wasn¡¯t a complete numbskull, but it was still pretty rough entering a city for the first time. Didn¡¯t take long to realize I had to cover up my looks, took a few rocks to the dome. Got reported to police a bunch. And so on. Did some dumpster diving, wasn¡¯t a fan. Then I realized I could get some credits with threats, or at least something to pawn. Setup shop in an abandoned warehouse. I think I¡¯d gotten pretty cocky at that point with my methods. Still pretty dumb though, since it should¡¯ve been obvious that hitting the same area over and over would get me found. That¡¯s when Pops came a knockin¡¯. They¡¯d tasked him with cleaning up remnants, and I wasn¡¯t careful enough about hiding my appearance from my victims. He raided my base with one other, but I had the foresight of a warning system, at least. Caught the other guy off-guard with a sneak attack. It was my first real duel.¡± Yuna explained the fight in excited detail. She then mimicked movements until Dante interrupted.


    ¡°I get it!¡± Dante said. ¡°I didn¡¯t need a play-by-play. That¡¯s what you choose to be detailed about? Seriously?¡±


    ¡°What can I say? You always remember your first.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s not how that saying is used.¡±


    Yuna shrugged. ¡°Fine. Anyway. I won just as Pops showed up. My memories are hazy though, so it¡¯s mostly Pops telling me what happened. I ran at him like a wounded, feral animal, I guess? Slashed at his face, then I got knocked out cold.¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re the source of Leon¡¯s scar?¡±


    ¡°Yep. I eventually worked up the courage to apologize for it and he laughed me off. Said he was glad for his deep-set eyes and he was keeping it as a ¡®memento¡¯.¡±


    ¡°Wow. Yeah, didn¡¯t even occur to me how his eyes themselves look fine in comparison. Can¡¯t say I get ¡®memento¡¯ though?¡±


    ¡°Me either. Alright, time for round four.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m¡­ not gonna bother complaining this time.¡± Dante sighed as he stood.


    ¡°Good. I¡¯m getting the hang of this.¡±


    The pair repeated another duel. Yuna¡¯s movements appeared less sluggish than prior. They returned to their seats.


    ¡°Slipped my mind, but I could get us some more comfortable seating, you know. Pretty simple,¡± Dante said.


    ¡°Nah, this¡¯ fine. Kinda great, actually. Think I¡¯d forgotten how nice grass and dirt feel. Even the smell¡¯s wonderful. Don¡¯t want to think about how. That¡¯ll make my head hurt.¡±


    ¡°Careful, might become an ALTR convert.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ll admit there¡¯s some value here, but not happening.¡±


    ¡°We¡¯ll see.¡±


    ¡°So, what I do remember is waking up tied to a chair. Of course, didn¡¯t know at the time, but it was a basement room of what became Vyxora. Then I met Mom.¡±


    A young, bloodied, and tattered Yuna sat tied to a chair in the middle of a small, almost empty room. Some general storage lay against the walls. A solitary light hung overhead. She awoke in a daze, looking around. After realizing she¡¯d been tied up, she struggled in vain until falling over. As the chair scraped further against the floor, the door opened. She thrashed even harder at the sight of someone¡¯s feet.


    ¡°Settle down, hun,¡± Celeste said. ¡°Yer gonna hurt yourself even more. You¡¯re already banged up enough.¡±


    Celeste set some things on a nearby table and rushed over. Yuna thrashed more. Celeste grabbed Yuna¡¯s outer shoulder and reached across for her other. Yuna opened her mouth wide and chomped hard into Celeste¡¯s forearm. Yuna blacked out.


    Yuna awoke after some time passed. A mechanical sparrow fluttered around her. Its movement intensified her stupor.


    ¡°Oh! You¡¯re awake.¡± a young girl¡¯s soft voice emanated from the sparrow. Yuna looked around in confusion until turning back to the now hovering bird. ¡°My name¡¯s Reina. What¡¯s yours?¡±


    ¡°Am I dreaming?¡± Yuna asked. ¡°A talking metal bird? The fuck?¡±


    ¡°Ah! Sorry! You¡¯re not dreaming, I swear! I can¡¯t come to you physically, so I¡¯m remotely controlling this little guy.¡±


    The sparrow swooped and fluttered about for a few moments. Yuna shook her head, then glanced around as her eyes focused. She realized she sat upright again, still tied to a chair, but the woman had dressed all of her injuries. Her eyes widened in surprise at the bandages.


    ¡°Mama patched you all up. You sure have a lot of wounds. I¡¯ve never seen so many. What¡¯s your name?¡±


    ¡°What? ¡®Mama¡¯? Why am I even still alive? The fuck¡¯s going on?¡±


    ¡°Shhh. Don¡¯t yell, I¡¯m supposed to be asleep,¡± Reina said. Yuna had a dumbfounded expression. ¡°What¡¯s your name?¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t have a name.¡± As Yuna fought against her restraints, she realized that more had been added.


    ¡°Please don¡¯t move too much.¡± Reina drew closer as Yuna moved further. The chair rocked. The sparrow pecked Yuna¡¯s forehead, and she stopped. ¡°Quit it. You¡¯ll ruin Mama¡¯s hard work.¡±


    ¡°You lil¡¯ cunt, that fuckin¡¯ hurt.¡± Yuna tried to bite the bird out of the air. She missed.


    Reina giggled. ¡°That¡¯d hurt you way more than me, dummy.¡± She slipped into a laughing fit until the sound cut out. Yuna had a bewildered expression.


    ¡°The hell¡¯s with you? What¡¯s so funny?¡±


    ¡°Sorry.¡± Reina coughed. ¡°I¡¯ve never been called such a naughty word before. It made me laugh for some reason. And! You¡¯re like some kinda wild animal. Can¡¯t believe you tried to bite me out of the air. I¡¯m metal, you know? That¡¯d really hurt! Maybe Mama shoulda muzzled you?¡± She giggled.


    ¡°Enjoying my suffering, you bitch? I¡¯ll make you regret this.¡± Yuna spit at the sparrow, almost hitting it.


    ¡°What? No, no, no,¡± Reina pleaded, fluttering about. ¡°I¡¯m so so so sorry! I planned this out in my head, but you wouldn¡¯t tell me your name! And, and, I¡¯m not good with new people. I¡¯m so sorry. I didn¡¯t mean to tease you. Please forgive me.¡± Yuna blinked, appearing awestruck. ¡°You¡¯re just so pretty and interesting. I didn¡¯t mean to offend. I¡¯m nervous. Please don¡¯t be mad. Please?¡±


    ¡°Settle the fuck down. I can¡¯t keep up with you. You¡¯re making my head hurt.¡±


    Audible cries emanated from the sparrow. ¡°You hate me now, don¡¯t you?¡±


    ¡°Now you¡¯re even crying? Am I really not dreaming?¡±


    ¡°S-sorry.¡± Reina sniffled. ¡°Do you hate me?¡±


    ¡°I¡ª. No?¡±


    ¡°Can we start over, please?¡± Reina asked in a tender voice.


    ¡°I¡­¡± Yuna¡¯s stomach growled.


    ¡°Oh! I heard that. I¡¯ll be right back!¡± Reina disappeared into a vent.


    Back in ALTR, Yuna leaned back onto her hands with an exhaling breath as she looked into the sky.


    ¡°Even now, I still remember that jarring feeling,¡± Yuna said. ¡°I¡¯d never had a single soul think about me before that. She was such a little whirlwind in that moment. Still is strange to think about, I consoled her? Anyway. You know the drill.¡± She jumped to her feet effortlessly.


    Dante grumbled with a sigh. They dueled again. A short time later, they returned to the spots and Yuna continued.


    ¡°The goofball returned with some kinda bar, I don¡¯t remember,¡± Yuna said. ¡°But it was so heavy, I could hear her banging into the vent walls on the way. Then, get this, she¡¯d forgotten I was tied up, so she had to peck off the wrapper and feed it to me, after she made me promise not to bite her.¡± Yuna gave a hearty laugh. ¡°Much, much later on, turned out Mom and Pops were recording. They¡¯ve teased us with it to an annoying ass level. Reina gets embarrassed at her clumsiness, and I cringe at myself, but I love it.¡±


    Reina hovered in front of the young Yuna as she swallowed the last bite.


    ¡°I can get more, if you want?¡± Reina asked.


    ¡°I¡¯m okay,¡± Yuna said.


    ¡°What¡¯s your name? Please?¡±


    Yuna sighed. ¡°I don¡¯t have one. I didn¡¯t lie. I only have an ID.¡±


    ¡°Is that what you were called by, then?¡±


    ¡°Yeah. Y074.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s a mouthful.¡± Reina landed on the table and started mumbling. ¡°Y074¡­ y074¡­¡±


    ¡°The hell¡¯re you doin¡¯?¡±


    ¡°Yuna!¡±


    Back in ALTR, Dante leaned in.


    ¡°Whoa, you¡¯re telling me Reina literally named you?¡± Dante asked.


    ¡°Yep,¡± Yuna said. ¡°It was already the longest conversation I¡¯d ever had. I answered her questions without hesitation, couldn¡¯t really tell you why, and even started asking back. You mostly know the content of both. Back and forth we went for hours and hours. It only truly dawned on me much later, but she accepted all of me. I definitely didn¡¯t understand that back then because I told her everything. And I mean everything. Even how I¡¯d killed all the other kids at their own requests. Reina still accepted me.¡±


    ¡°Uh, you did what now? Did I mishear?¡±


    ¡°Huh? Oops, forgot I meant to leave that part out. Ehh, story for another time. You get the gist, right? I don¡¯t like talking this much. At least about this kinda crap, anyway. Long story short, Reina saved me. I def woulda made Pops kill me otherwise.¡±


    ¡°Well, I¡¯ll concede it surpassed any expectations I had, though still have a lot of questions.¡±


    ¡°If you wanna keep going, one fight per question.¡±


    ¡°Your serious?¡±


    ¡°Yep.¡±


    ¡°Extortion.¡±


    ¡°Boo-hoo,¡± Yuna mocked. ¡°That¡¯s what you get for wanting to know more about me.¡±


    ¡°Weird taunt.¡± Dante shook his head.


    Many duels later, Yuna had around ten percent health remaining, while Dante had a quarter.


    ¡°Yuna!¡± Reina called.


    Dante turned to the source of the voice. Yuna pounced, delivering a series of blows and sending him flying. He sat up, seeing a petite girl draped over Yuna.


    Really was Reina, Dante thought. We must¡¯ve been in here a long while. Good timing to fake a fall. I can not let that psycho Yuna know I¡¯ve been holding back all this time. Time? Oh shit! My guilds gonna be pissed.

 Chapter 14 - Moon Kneel

    Artemis stood on the moon, gazing at Earth. She wore her typical attire. A short distance behind her kneeled Aelfric. His appearance reflected his usual.


    ¡°He¡¯s kneeling even on the moon, really?¡± Xandr asked.


    ¡°I¡¯ve long given up on stopping his¡­ eccentricities. At least, when not at Aegis,¡± Artemis thought.


    ¡°Good morning, Lady Artemis. I hope you¡¯ve been well,¡± Aelfric said.


    ¡°Or maybe you secretly like it, ¡®Lady Artemis¡¯?¡± Xandr teased.


    ¡°Shut up, now.¡± Artemis sighed.


    ¡°Is something wrong, my Lady?¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s nothing. Begin your report,¡± Artemis said.


    ¡°Is this place,¡± Aelfric glanced around the emptiness, ¡°secure?¡±


    ¡°Isabelle knows you well.¡± Artemis made a slight gesture.


    ¡°Hey, stupid brother,¡± a voice recording said. ¡°Don¡¯t waste Ms. Artemis¡¯ valuable time with your ¡®secure¡¯ junk. This ALTR server is as secure as it gets. Not only will it self-destruct after you leave, in the point one percent chance someone even found it, then infiltrated, you and Ms. Artemis look like completely different people. With that key I gave you, only you two can see one another in your actual appearance. Not even I would be able to. And, in my ingenious setup, you¡¯ll know immediately if someone managed to access. There¡¯s literally nowhere else they could appear. So stop kneeling like an idiot and speak freely. Ms. Artemis has an appointment in forty-five minutes.¡±


    ¡°My apologies for her vulgar behavior, Lady Artemis. I hope she has not proven a hindrance.¡± Aelfric bowed his head.


    ¡°Her eagerness is, at times, overwhelming. However, she¡¯s proven exceedingly capable. Do not fret,¡± Artemis said.


    ¡°Isabelle may idolize you, but that is no excuse. I will¡ª.¡±


    ¡°Enough. It¡¯s fine. Your report, now.¡±


    ¡°What is with this sibling pair¡¯s worship for you?¡± Xandr asked. Artemis sighed.


    ¡°Cease the formalities and stand.¡±


    ¡°Understood, my apo¡ª.¡± Aelfric stood, glancing at Artemis¡¯ expression. ¡°I do not wish to oversell my success, however, the infiltration has gone far better than I could have hoped. I¡¯ve come to aid the matriarch of the Vyxora, Celeste Vyx, daily, and have assisted in tasks such as.¡± He explained in detail how he¡¯d essentially become a personal assistant to Celeste. He then explained the general daily life of the Vyxora.


    ¡°Enough. Your effort¡¯s appreciated, but as always, refrain from such extensive details. My contact conveyed the Vyxora were a peculiar organization, but they don¡¯t even sound like a criminal enterprise?¡±


    ¡°Yes, my apologies.¡± Aelfric moved to bow, but felt Artemis¡¯ glare and quickly continued. ¡°It is as you say. From what I can ascertain, they behave as more of a community of outcasts. I¡¯ve yet to observe much illicit activities. In addition, even though I developed an extensive back-story, Celeste hasn¡¯t probed further.¡± Obvious disappointment showed on his face.


    ¡°It seems odd this woman would be so trusting. Does she perhaps suspect you?¡±


    ¡°That was my same concern, Lady Artemis. However, I inquired with other residents and they confirmed the Vyxora simply do not delve into pasts. It appears to be a code they live by, to some extent.¡± Aelfric explained further of Celeste¡¯s personality, leading into several anecdotes. A subtle look of disbelief crept along Artemis¡¯ face. ¡°Is something the matter, my Lady?¡±


    Artemis blinked with a slight shake of her head. ¡°Ahem. No. I was merely taken aback a little. I can not recall you ever sharing anecdotes, not even of Isabelle.¡±


    ¡°Hmm. I trust your memory, Lady Artemis. In truth, your personalities are quite different. However, Celeste ¡®carries¡¯ herself in a manner very similar to yourself. She possesses an unshakable demeanor and reminds me of you. Perhaps that is how the Vyxora are able to discard the past so effortlessly? Admittedly, I have almost prefaced her name with ¡®Lady¡¯ several times. I¡¯m grateful you allow me to continue addressing you as such, despite your dislike. I¡¯m confident Celeste would not tolerate it, however.¡±


    ¡°So your weirdo right hand does have some self awareness. Hard to believe,¡± Xandr said. ¡°Though I doubt he realized he indirectly insulted you.¡±


    ¡°That matters little. I¡¯m more concerned about him compromising himself,¡± Artemis thought.


    ¡°What have you learned of the others?¡± Artemis asked. ¡°The general knowledge dossier I¡¯ve obtained lacks much insight.¡±


    ¡°Apologies. I mustn''t further neglect the time,¡± Aelfric said. He shared what he learned of Leon.


    ¡°As strange of man as the dossier alluded to. He once led a renowned mercenary group. Celeste worked as a medic in that same group. It appears he may fund Vyxora by handling specific wetwork from the council. Traitors and the like.¡±


    ¡°If that¡¯s the case, it¡¯s not acknowledged openly.¡±


    ¡°Of course not. I kept my inquiry within reason from my council contact. However, they still shared that it¡¯s rumored the daughter ¡®Yuna¡¯ assists Leon. She must be who confronted you?¡±


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    ¡°Yes. There¡¯s little doubt. I¡¯ve yet to speak to her directly, however.¡± Aelfric described what he learned of Yuna from residents and general gossip.


    ¡°Every morning?¡±


    ¡°Without fail.¡± Aelfric continued. ¡°Lastly, she is Hrewim.¡± A brief silence ensued.


    ¡°Are you okay, Aelfric? You used to¡ª.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m humbled by your concern, my Lady. However, I assure you my feelings toward them will have no bearing on my task.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ll trust you.¡±


    ¡°I am honored.¡± Aelfric bowed.


    ¡°And the other sickly daughter, Reina, was it?¡±


    ¡°Reina. Yes. I¡¯ve spoken with her avatars occasionally. Celeste also tends to boast about her daughters, Reina especially. It¡¯s not without warrant. Despite her age, she¡¯s closer to a ¡®leader¡¯ role of the Vyxora than anyone else, including Leon.¡± Aelfric explained what he¡¯d learned of Reina. This included answering questions from Artemis about the cat and sparrow as well as their creators, her role in Vyxora, and more. ¡°I¡¯ve done my utmost to prevent suspicion as instructed and have avoided asking anything pertinent to us. Nonetheless, I¡¯m confident Reina was the mind that allowed Yuna to discover my location.¡±


    ¡°Aelfric, do you think she may be¡­?¡± Artemis¡¯ voice drifted off.


    ¡°The thought has crossed my mind, my Lady. However, though she did not appear to mind sharing her situation despite my rudeness at the time, she gave little specific detail on the affliction. My apologies.¡± A long silence set in as Artemis slipped into thought.


    ¡°Wew, this sure complicates things for ya, doesn¡¯t it?¡± Xandr asked.


    ¡°Obviously,¡± Artemis thought. ¡°Not only have they subverted any expectations I had, this Reina may be another I¡¯ve missed. I¡¯ve always known I can¡¯t find them all, but...¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t you just do that to ease your guilty conscience?¡±


    ¡°The real you would never ask such pointed questions.¡±


    ¡°Haha. Probably not. Alas, your memories of my personality are already two decades removed. Who says I wouldn¡¯t have changed?¡±


    ¡°You wouldn¡¯t.¡±


    ¡°Maybe you won¡¯t believe me, being a figment and all, but that resolute attitude of yours gave me a lot of confidence.¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t need your comfort, and I don¡¯t do this to ease my conscience. I do this because I know it¡¯d have torn you up inside knowing, even though it¡¯s a minuscule amount, that Aegis had the opposite effect on some.¡±


    ¡°Yeah. Can¡¯t deny that.¡±


    ¡°Lady Artemis?¡± Aelfric asked. Artemis met his gaze with a slight dazed look. ¡°Apologies for interrupting your thoughts, but Belle¡¯s voice warned of the time.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s fine.¡± Artemis blinked and returned to her usual demeanor.


    ¡°Do you have any additional or modified directives?¡±


    ¡°No. Continue as you are. Patience is key at this juncture. Do not overextend your investigation even a little.¡±


    ¡°Even for¡­¡± Aelfric paused. ¡°Reina?¡± Artemis met his gaze.


    ¡°Your concern is noted. I will pursue that information myself, however, understood?¡±


    ¡°Yes, my Lady. I shall depart and return to my duties. I hope my sister continues to be of use.¡±


    Aelfric stood, bowed, and then disappeared. Artemis glanced around the emptiness of space until resting her gaze on Earth for a few minutes. She disappeared. The moon collapsed into a black hole, obliterating everything.


    In the early morning at Vyxora, where sunlight had only begun to creep in, Val leaned over a lower-level railing overlooking the courtyard. She wore loose, light clothing and had disheveled hair. She sipped from a cup of coffee while inhaling on a small device, occasionally exhaling puffs of smoke. She watched as Celeste signed the pad of a delivery person below. Aelfric unloaded boxes from a dolly nearby. A freshly showered Yuna appeared with a yawn from the apartment door behind Val. She ran her fingers along a tattoo on Val¡¯s back while her other hand reached for the coffee. Val¡¯s arm moved along. She sipped.


    ¡°Bleh,¡± Yuna said. ¡°Swear your part old-man. Still no sugar? Milk? Something? I¡¯ll never get how you can stand such bitterness.¡± She leaned alongside Val on the railing.


    ¡°I¡¯ll never get how you try it every time expecting something different?¡± Val asked.


    ¡°Eh. You know my memory sucks.¡± Yuna playfully bumped Val.


    ¡°Practicing headbutts surely isn¡¯t helping.¡±


    ¡°Hard disagree. I finally almost broke free of one of Pop¡¯s holds the other day.¡±


    ¡°I know, I was there. My head hurt just watching. Wish you¡¯d¡­¡±


    ¡°Oh, it¡¯s Mom. That what you were watching? Did you say something?¡±


    ¡°Nevermind.¡± Val sighed. ¡°Yeah, as usual, Celeste is the first up. Though lately that Alphonse guy has been, too.¡±


    ¡°Ah, yeah. Feel like I¡¯ve seen him around? What¡¯s his deal?¡±


    ¡°Surprised Celeste hasn¡¯t mentioned him. Every time I see her recently, he¡¯s following along to help her with something.¡±


    ¡°Mom knows not to bother telling me about that kinda junk. I zone out right away.¡±


    Val made a large inhale, followed by an exhale. ¡°That¡¯s why I don¡¯t bother telling you about my day.¡± Yuna observed Alphonse.


    ¡°Hmm. There¡¯s somethin¡¯ about this guy I don¡¯t like.¡±


    ¡°Aaand, ignored.¡± Val shook her head.


    ¡°His walk.¡±


    ¡°¡®His walk¡¯? Are you just making up reasons to hate new people now? If I¡¯m an old man, you¡¯re a raggedy ass old unfriendly cat.¡±


    ¡°Trust me, there¡¯s something there. Just¡­ can¡¯t put it into words.¡±


    ¡°Pfft.¡± Val scoffed. ¡°You¡¯re just hostile to anyone new, you pain in the ass. Look how long it took for you to stop pulling a damn knife on Dante. I mean, sure, he was technically an enemy, but the guy couldn¡¯t be less threatening if he tried. And this Alphonse? I¡¯ve talked to him. He must have some baggage to be here, but I¡¯ve never talked to anyone so polite.¡±


    ¡°Hmm.¡±


    Val grabbed Yuna¡¯s chin and turned her head. ¡°Don¡¯t even think about starting something. Get me, punk?¡±


    ¡°Ow, ow. I heard something crack.¡± Yuna pulled away, rubbing her neck.


    ¡°Yuna.¡± Val glared.


    ¡°Okay, I get it.¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t mess this up for your Mom. Hard to say if the guy will last long, but I could tell she was over the moon. She didn¡¯t even ask him to help, several times, he offered each time. ¡®And he¡¯s so polite!¡¯ she said while bragging to me. He¡¯s even won Lawrence¡¯s approval with his work ethic.¡±


    ¡°Wow. Even King Ass-Pain? Almost feel sorry for the poor bastard, Mom¡¯s gonna run him into the ground. No one keeps up with her for long.¡±


    ¡°Yeah, well, like I said, must have some baggage. I warned him about the dangers of accepting offers to help from Celeste. He accepted cooking lessons. That was two weeks ago.¡±


    ¡°Seriously? This dude must have more than a few screws loose.¡±


    ¡°Dante broke after only a day of her exercise regiment, when he didn¡¯t take my advice.¡± Val chuckled. ¡°He¡¯s said no ever since.¡±


    ¡°Oh!¡± Yuna chuckled. ¡°I forgot to tell you about the time I found him hiding under the bed from Mom.¡± She told a short story. The pair laughed.


    ¡°Celeste¡¯s somethin¡¯ else.¡±


    ¡°Alright.¡± Yuna pulled away and hopped on her toes in a warm-up. ¡°I¡¯ve got my ALTR date with Reina tonight, but we can continue tomorrow night, right?¡±


    ¡°Ehh,¡± Val grumbled. ¡°Do I have to? I don¡¯t know how you like that crap show so much.¡±


    ¡°What? But¡­¡± Yuna had a fearful expression. ¡°I thought?¡±


    Val turned and chuckled. ¡°Just teasin¡¯. Yeah, it¡¯s grown on me.¡±


    Yuna breathed a sigh of relief. ¡°You bitch.¡± She leaned in and kissed Val on the lips, followed by a light headbutt.


    ¡°That¡¯s the only way to get you to show such a look.¡± Val grinned. ¡°I like it.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ll remember that,¡± Yuna whispered, then walked away.


    Val inhaled from her device. ¡°Now I¡¯m a little worried if that was actually a threat.¡± She exhaled.

 Chapter 15 - Project Avalon

    Viktor Weihelm stood in a large room with no windows. He wore a luxurious tuxedo. A beautiful woman in an expensive dress slept in a chair against a nearby wall. An immense table lay in front of him. Upon it glimmered a gigantic cityscape. He gestured in the air, manipulating a hologram via his IRIS. The city reconfigured to the whim of his fingers, zooming throughout. Buildings disappeared and reappeared elsewhere, streets were erased and redrawn. Greenery and accompanying pavements sprouted up, only to disappear before appearing again elsewhere. Various forms of transit also emerged from buses to trains and even experimental. Viktor had a focused, intense expression that shifted into deep agitation at a ringing sound. He sighed as he answered a call.


    ¡°Few know of this number. Even fewer would dare contact me right now. Who is this?¡± Viktor said.


    ¡°Sir Weihelm, this is Siegfried. I apologize for disturbing you at this hour,¡± Siegfried said.


    ¡°Siegfried?¡± Viktor ceased his actions.


    ¡°Sir, knowing your time is valuable, I¡¯ll not waste it. I¡¯ve finished establishing my network. As you¡¯re well aware, there have been no further incidents since my employ.¡±


    ¡°Yes¡­¡± Viktor grumbled with a sour expression.


    ¡°I¡¯m endeavoring to take a proactive route. Therefore, I¡¯d like to request your assistance.¡±


    ¡°My assistance? With what?¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s your belief that the assassin is after you, or Aegis Industries at least, am I correct?¡±


    ¡°Pretty god damned obvious, yes.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯d like to lure them out with you as the bait. Do you have anything worthy of a press conference? Something you¡¯ve been eager to announce?¡±


    Viktor stared at the cityscape. ¡°Hmm. Perhaps.¡±


    Several days later, Artemis sat at her desk in the early morning. Sunlight bathed her office. A projected screen above her desk displayed a muted news channel. A young woman entered her office, carrying a cup of coffee on a saucer with great care. She looked similar to Aelfric, both in appearance and fastidiousness. She had dark hair, with a partial braid from ear to ear at the back, along with several hair pins at the sides. Artemis tapped away at a holographic keyboard until the young woman approached. She placed the cup on the desk, then stood with an intense gaze at Artemis¡¯ every movement. Artemis shot her a glance. She backed away some, still watching.


    ¡°Thank you, Isabelle,¡± Artemis said. Isabelle continued to watch with a nervous anticipation. Artemis¡¯ eyes affixed to the news as she eloquently took a sip. She paused as the liquid passed through her lips. Though almost imperceptibly subtle, a delighted surprise flashed across her face. ¡°Remarkable.¡± Isabelle made a celebratory fist pump, causing Artemis to turn her head slightly.


    ¡°Sorry, my prosthetic acts up sometimes,¡± Isabelle tempered a beaming grin as she held her arm to her side. Artemis sipped further. Isabelle regained her composure. ¡°How is it, Miss Artemis? I know how much you value your coffee, so I was worried about deviating from brother¡¯s meticulous instructions. I researched and tested¡­a lot, but?¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s exquisite, Isabelle.¡± Artemis went into a brief in-depth analysis of the coffee, with intervals of sips.


    ¡°Wow. I didn¡¯t know coffee could be described like that. I¡¯m not sure I understood you.¡±


    ¡°Ahem. Apologies, as one of my few vices, I can lose myself.¡±


    ¡°No, no. I¡¯m grateful to see this side of you, Miss Artemis.¡±


    ¡°Is that so?¡± Artemis¡¯ focus moved to the coffee in her hand.


    ¡°Don¡¯t you feel some shame having another sycophant at your beck and call?¡± Xandr asked.


    ¡°It can¡¯t be helped. They¡¯re necessary tools,¡± Artemis thought.


    ¡°Is that really all?¡±


    Meanwhile, Isabelle had turned away and whispered under her breath. ¡°Heheh. Bet brother hasn¡¯t seen this side of Miss Artemis. But. Calm down, Belle. Don¡¯t want to come off as a weirdo. And don¡¯t chicken out, now, either.¡± She turned back to the preoccupied Artemis.


    ¡°Miss Artemis, I swore if I managed to impress you, that I¡¯d request you call me Belle, at least in private. Do you mind?¡±


    ¡°Sure?¡± Artemis had a slight quizzical brow as she shot Isabelle a brief glance.


    Isabelle turned away again, ensuring to obscure her arms from Artemis¡¯ sight. ¡°Fuck yeah, phase three complete,¡± she whispered as she made multiple fist pumps. She turned back at the sound of the news channel unmuted.


    ¡°Market speculation is rampant as the CEO of the embattled Aegis Industries, Viktor Weihelm, prepares to make his first public announcement in many years just minutes from now,¡± the news anchor said. ¡°Despite remaining the Chief Executive Officer in that time, most have assumed he was in name only, with prior public announcements only ever related to his many sports teams and philanthropic efforts. The COO, Artemis Vigard, has long since become the face of arguably the largest and most valuable corporation on the planet. Various unverified rumors and speculation has seen Aegis¡¯ stock fall and surge repeatedly in recent months. The markets have been in chaos at the possible news of retirement.¡±


    ¡°Sure, Chuck, but with Ms. Vigard absent, that seems unlikely,¡± another anchor said. ¡°Many are speculating we may finally hear comments on the murders of¡ª.¡± The anchor continued on about those killed while wearing an Aegis suit.


    ¡°What? They¡¯re allowed to talk about this?¡± Belle asked.


    ¡°Siegfried wrote the script, in all likelihood,¡± Artemis said.


    ¡°Why?¡±


    ¡°An attempt at provocation, I¡¯d assume.¡±


    ¡°Do you think Aelfy knows?¡± Belle whispered.


    ¡°Probably.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m still amazed that idiot hasn¡¯t blown it, yet.¡± Belle shook her head.


    ¡°Yes, you¡¯ve said as much several times.¡±


    ¡°Sorry. I¡¯m just¡­¡±


    ¡°Worried?¡±


    ¡°No. A little. Maybe.¡±


    ¡°Hmm, seems rather dishonest with her feelings, doesn¡¯t she? That remind you of anyone?¡± Xandr asked.


    ¡°I grew out of that long ago.¡±


    ¡°True, you made the first move. Buuut, can you offer your ¡®tool¡¯ a little succor, at least?¡±


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    ¡°Aelfric¡¯s¡­ eccentricity can prove rather tiresome, but his dedication to it is likely more of a boon than a hindrance. Especially in this circumstance.¡±


    ¡°You mean how the idiot sees himself as some kind of modern-day ninja-knight hybrid? Ugh. It¡¯s embarrassing to even say out loud. Now I know why you said it that way.¡± Belle sighed. ¡°But I guess I get what you¡¯re saying.¡± She¡¯s trying to comfort me, right? Right? I can¡¯t believe this is happening!


    Meanwhile, in a large pantry within Vyxora Apartments, Aelfric unloaded food from boxes onto shelves. He moved in an efficient and hasteful manner. Celeste appeared at a nearby doorway, mixing a bowl of cream in her hands.


    ¡°Alphonse, hun, there¡¯s no rush,¡± Celeste said. ¡°I¡¯m glad for the help, and I know we¡¯ve waived your rent, but I still feel I¡¯ve been taking advantage of you too much. I let the free pair of hands go to my head.¡±


    Aelfric continued to move unabated. ¡°I request that you not worry, my La¡ª.¡± He stopped himself. ¡°Celeste. I assure you, this is mutually beneficial. During my current transitional period, having my hands busy is more helpful than I can hope to convey in words.¡±


    ¡°So be it. I can at least make sure you eat well, then. Oh, and don¡¯t worry, hun, I¡¯m devisin¡¯ some treats that ain¡¯t so sweet.¡±


    Aelfric stopped and glanced at the doorway. Celeste had disappeared from sight. He turned back. I thought I¡¯d hid my dislike well. I must remain vigilant.


    Viktor Weihelm stood at a podium at the foot of Aegis Industries. Several streets were closed off around the area while a sea of people flooded in. Countless press personnel and their equipment surrounded him. The area in front of him had an enormous stage shielded from the sun. The holographic realistic cityscape appeared.


    ¡°Announcing: Project Avalon!¡± Viktor said. ¡°Aegis Industries will change the world forever once again! Construction has already begun on a city to not just rival, but far exceed even the great Lyrsium! From the ground up it will utilize the greatest cutting-edge technologies humankind has to offer as it strives to serve as a blueprint for our future. Part of the city shall serve as a testing ground for its eventual sister city on Mars!¡± He continued in detail on the city¡¯s features while the hologram changed in relevance.


    Some time later, in Reina¡¯s basement room, she, Dante, and Yuna watched as the press conference ended.


    ¡°That¡¯s it?¡± Yuna asked. ¡°What a waste of fuckin¡¯ time. Nothing happened.¡±


    ¡°Well, I wouldn¡¯t say nothing,¡± Dante said. ¡°A multi-trillion credit city is pretty insane. But yeah, no ¡®Aegis Slayer¡¯ or ¡®Clayshi¡¯¡±


    ¡°Maybe they pussied out?¡±


    ¡°There was never credible information they would do something,¡± Reina said. ¡°Although, I don¡¯t think anyone saw this city announcement coming. ¡®Aegis Slayer¡¯ also has two main, conflicting meanings. Those aware of the first and third killings think they¡¯re after Aegis. But a conspiracy that¡¯s gained a lot of popularity on the net with people more aware of the last two and the Argonix CEO; is Aegis was orchestrating false flag attacks to hype a new version of the Aegis suit that¡¯s been rumored for some time. So, both camps have taken a real hit with the announcement being completely devoted to this new city.¡±


    ¡°When you lay it out like that, weird. Thought for sure Weihelm would at least comment on it all,¡± Dante said.


    ¡°Yeah, what the hell? Well, good thing Reina talked me out of going. Those amateur feeds revealed a shit-ton of security. Probably woulda got myself into trouble.¡±


    ¡°What? What¡¯re you talking about?¡± Reina asked.


    ¡°Security seemed pretty light to me? Was kinda surprising, considering who was speaking. Mostly just saw beat cops?¡± Dante asked.


    ¡°Huh? Are you two blind? Look.¡± Yuna stood and pointed at several individuals in the amateur feeds surrounding the main feed. ¡°If they got this many in the crowds, bet there are dudes crawling around every building and rooftop nearby.¡± She glanced at the others. ¡°What¡¯s those looks for? It¡¯s obvious how they carry themselves, isn¡¯t it?¡±


    ¡°Uh, no? Didn¡¯t occur to me at all. Reina?¡±


    ¡°Great job, Yuna! I always forget how observant you can be when you feel like it. How about these?¡± Many of the feeds swapped to other similar ones.


    ¡°Oh, sure. No problem. I was just bored,¡± Yuna said. ¡°You want me to point out more?¡±


    ¡°Yes, please!¡±


    ¡°Okay, okay. The hell¡¯s got you so excited?¡± Yuna pointed at several individuals. ¡°Here, here, here.¡±


    ¡°Good, that¡¯s enough. Thank you so much.¡±


    ¡°Right¡­¡± Yuna sat back down and exchanged a confused glance with Dante.


    ¡°If there¡¯s this many¡­ then that has to mean¡­¡± Reina mumbled.


    ¡°Mind filling us in, Reina?¡± Dante asked.


    ¡°Oh! Yes, well. I thought it was a possibility, but if Yuna¡¯s right, this has to have been a trap. This means someone at Aegis orchestrated, or at least took advantage of this event, to trap the Aegis Slayer. Thus, if true, that would mean Aegis isn¡¯t behind the killings and they¡¯re, in fact, the target. At least, that¡¯s what whoever set this up is thinking. Aegis has its own private military essentially, so there¡¯s no doubt even more we can¡¯t see.¡±


    ¡°I see your point, I think. Does this do anything for your theories?¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t know, but it¡¯s another perspective to be keenly aware of.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m not gonna claim I followed all that,¡± Yuna said. ¡°But could we find the fucker by looking into this guy¡¯s enemies?¡±


    ¡°Uh, no?¡± Dante gave Yuna a profoundly perplexed expression.


    ¡°What is it? What¡¯re you lookin¡¯ at?¡±


    ¡°Yuna wouldn¡¯t know much about Weihelm, Dante,¡± Reina said. ¡°She knows actors from her favorite shows, but that¡¯s it. I¡¯d bet she doesn¡¯t know his first name.¡±


    ¡°Yeah, so? Isn¡¯t it¡­ Doesn¡¯t it start with ¡®A¡¯?¡±


    ¡°Were you about to say ¡®Aegis Weihelm¡¯?¡±


    ¡°Maybe.¡± Dante and Reina laughed. ¡°Jerks.¡±


    ¡°Sorry, Yuna. It¡¯s Viktor,¡± Reina said. ¡°But no, looking into his enemies isn¡¯t an option. It¡¯s countless. After Aegis Day, he wielded the goodwill generated from it with merciless efficiency, building Aegis Industries into the largest corporation on Earth, by a considerable margin. He has a charismatic and unbelievably philanthropic persona, but he didn¡¯t become the first and still only multi-trillionaire without stepping on a lot of people.¡±


    ¡°Of course, those people get drowned out by the followers,¡± Dante said. ¡°Plus, there¡¯s not a lot of hard evidence of him doing anything shady. Some almost worship the dude. He never comments on politics, religion, all that jazz. Owns a bunch of sports teams and other junk. People are probably eating up this city announcement.¡±


    ¡°They are. Multiple Aegis websites have even crashed from the traffic. That¡¯s unheard of.¡±


    ¡°Point is, dude¡¯s got plenty of haters, but far more lovers.¡±


    Yuna grumbled. ¡°Another day of nothing. Hey though, if this was a trap, would they really risk the top dog¡¯s neck?¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s¡­¡± Dante looked at Yuna in slight awe. ¡°A good point, actually.¡±


    Yuna glared. ¡°I¡¯m gonna fucking deck you if you keep being surprised every time I say something worthwhile.¡± She raised a fist.


    ¡°My bad.¡± Dante gestured apologetically.


    ¡°Calm down, Yuna,¡± Reina said. ¡°I know you¡¯re not as dumb as like you like to pretend, but poor Dante¡¯s only seen your usual self.¡±


    ¡°Fine.¡± With Reina-cat preoccupied, Yuna moved behind Dante unnoticed. She gripped his shoulders and leaned down to his ear. He turned his head slightly to look at her.


    ¡°I will seriously fuck you up if you give me that look again,¡± Yuna whispered.


    Dante breathed a sigh of relief. ¡°Wew. It¡¯s nice her breath is always minty during these. I appreciate it.¡±


    ¡°Huh? My breath?¡± Yuna turned Dante a bit as she reeled back in surprise.


    ¡°Er, I said that out loud, didn¡¯t I? Fudge. Guess it¡¯s been on my mind to tell you and slipped out. I knew I should¡¯ve gone to sleep earlier.¡± Dante glanced at Yuna, then glanced elsewhere unconvincingly. ¡°Look at the time, I¡¯ve got some ALTR to attend to, if you¡¯ll excuse me.¡± He turned toward his room.


    ¡°Uh-uh.¡± Yuna grabbed Dante by the shoulders and spun him to face her. ¡°What¡¯s with the attitude? Since when did you stop cowering to me?¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re not gonna let me go until I tell you, are you?¡±


    ¡°Nope.¡± Yuna shook her head.


    ¡°Double fudge. Hope she¡¯s not gonna be angry with me,¡± Dante whispered under his breath.


    ¡°What¡¯re you mumbling about?¡±


    ¡°So, I, uh. Know that you fake being angry sometimes. Various legitimate reasons, I¡¯m sure. For me, it¡¯s like a form of teasing, I assume?¡±


    ¡°Wh-what. No way.¡± Yuna withdrew and clicked her tongue. ¡°How¡¯d you know?¡±


    ¡°I was told you have a tell. Honestly, I¡¯ve wanted to commend you on actually being crazy convincing since I found out. The expression, the voice, the words. Solid acting, really. Maybe you¡¯ve absorbed some skills from all those shows? But it¡¯s in your glare. Real distinct when you¡¯re legit mad.¡±


    ¡°Damn.¡± Yuna pulled her chair over and sat facing Dante. She paused in thought. ¡°Who told you? No, wait. I bet it was Val, wasn¡¯t it? She always knows when I¡¯m faking, damnit. That sly¡­ I¡¯ll get her.¡± Dante moved to stand, but Yuna forced him back down with a slight press to his thighs. ¡°Hold up. If you help me, I¡¯ll forgive you.¡±


    ¡°Guess I¡¯m in too deep already. What is it?¡±


    For the next several minutes, Dante and Yuna went back and forth as she practiced glaring. They devolved into an in-depth discussion on the topic. Reina-cat turned around after a few words from herself went unheard.


    ¡°Hmm, maybe try to lift your cheeks a bit,¡± Dante said.


    Yuna glared. ¡°How¡¯s this?¡±


    ¡°Mm. Definitely getting closer.¡±


    Yuna grinned, then glared again. ¡°And this?¡±


    ¡°The heck¡¯re you two doing?¡± Reina asked. The other two turned to her in surprise. ¡°Whatever. Huge news. The lack of anything happening today must¡¯ve given the council confidence. We¡¯ve got to start preparing for security detail again.¡±


    ¡°Fucking finally.¡± Yuna turned to Reina.


    ¡°Why¡¯re you glaring at me?¡± Reina asked in a tender voice. ¡°No. I know. I¡¯m sorry, Yuna¡­ that it¡¯s taken so long. If only¡ª.¡±


    ¡°What? No, no, no!¡± Yuna grabbed Reina-cat and frantically explained. Dante stifled laughter.

 Chapter 16 - Life over Coffee

    Artemis once again stood upon the ALTR moon, with Aelfric kneeling behind her as she gazed at the Earth.


    ¡°Reporting, Lady Artemis,¡± Aelfric said.


    ¡°Begin,¡± Artemis said.


    ¡°I can not swear with certainty, but I believe I¡¯ve achieved our initial goal.¡±


    ¡°Is that so?¡± Artemis turned around.


    ¡°I studied most resident¡¯s routines and through my daily work, familiarized myself with the building. This gave me the confidence to infiltrate the ventilation system without seeking your approval. My apologies.¡±


    ¡°I trust your judgment, continue.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m humbled. This lead into their primary base of operations, Reina¡¯s basement room. They are in the midst of preparing for a return of the territorial duels, once again being assigned as security.¡± Aelfric went on to explain in detail all that he overheard.


    ¡°Hm. This Reina¡¯s really quite remarkable, isn¡¯t she?¡±


    ¡°I concur, my Lady. Had Belle not informed me, I would¡¯ve had no idea that wasn¡¯t the real Weihelm.¡±


    ¡°Hm? Ah, yes. I¡¯m unsure how Siegfried provided such an immaculate double. Even an amateur could use software to analyze body language, etcetera. Yet, it never triggered scrutiny. Something we¡¯ll need to keep in mind.¡±


    ¡°Understood. I¡¯m unclear how exactly they were able to determine the Project Avalon announcement was a trap, however.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s of little consequence. It is quite astonishing though, how a different perspective can find a crack. To think absence could be used as evidence. She has no idea our true goals, yet is able to sense they exist despite our efforts to only cause confusion.¡±


    ¡°To be honest with you, Lady Artemis, I¡¯ve been worrying that I¡¯d made a mistake along the way. Hearing how Reina discerned our motives provided a strange relief, I¡¯m loathe to admit.¡±


    Artemis scoffed. ¡°You sometimes worry about the stupidest things, Aelfric. Don¡¯t even think about more apologizing, it¡¯s tedious. The reality is, our plans have progressed too smoothly, if anything. The Vyx interruption was quite surprising, but learning it was purely through a deductive guess, illustrates just how careful we¡¯ve been. And now, Project Avalon was unveiled far sooner then we¡¯d planned.¡±


    ¡°That was very unexpected news.¡±


    ¡°Yes. I underestimated just how much Viktor had been waiting for an excuse to unveil it. I thought I¡¯d be the one to coax him, eventually. We must exercise even greater caution now that our timeline has jumped forward, understood?¡±


    ¡°Yes, my Lady.¡±


    ¡°I will discuss with Belle when our next target will be decided.¡±


    ¡°I almost feel a pang of regret that we won¡¯t be interrupting any more duels. How strange,¡± Artemis thought.


    ¡°Not that strange, really,¡± Xandr said. ¡°You¡¯d never admit it, but you¡¯ve always liked matching wits. And despite her age, this girl¡¯s rather clever. I¡¯m sure we would¡¯ve gotten along.¡±


    ¡°You¡¯d probably have just tried to convince her to be a lab assistant.¡±


    ¡°Hey, a clever lab assistant goes a long way, you would know.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s enough. It¡¯s repulsive that my own thoughts continue to attempt to bolster my ego.¡± Xandr laughed.


    ¡°Lady Artemis. Lady Artemis, I apologize for interrupting your thoughts,¡± Aelfric said.


    ¡°What did I just say about apologizing?¡± Artemis said with a slight glare and hint of agitation.


    ¡°My¡ª.¡± Aelfric coughed. You¡¯re in ALTR, fool, coughing makes no sense. Don¡¯t agitate her further.


    ¡°Well?¡±


    ¡°I request you allow me to speak in full, my Lady. I will accept any punishment, after.¡± Aelfric looked down as he continued in haste. ¡°As instructed, I¡¯ve also been carefully investigating Reina¡¯s condition. I learned the Nezin twins were behind the tech sustaining her. Then, by chance, as I was assisting them on unrelated manners, I learned they keep paper records of all things. I decided to accept any punishment by pursuing this without authorization. There were some small¡­ complications.¡± He paused as he recalled in his head, encountering Reina-cat in a vent. However, it looked as if it slept and he awkwardly moved past it. Then, he encountered some light security into the workshop that he had to temporarily disarm. ¡°But I managed to go unnoticed. I would have surely been confronted if not. After consulting with Belle, we believe her parents¡¯ past is how and why she went unnoticed. I do not wish to be presumptuous of your thoughts, but both Belle and I know how important this is to you. Please do not feel guilt that you missed her.¡± He glanced at Artemis¡¯ stern expression.


    ¡°Continue.¡±


    ¡°Do you really have to be so cold? They just care about you,¡± Xandr said.


    ¡°Shut up.¡±


    ¡°Yes. It¡¯s as you assumed,¡± Aelfric said. ¡°Elias and Sophia determined the Aegis Virus was the cause early on. I also found some evidence of them working on a cure and forwarded what I could find to Belle.¡±


    ¡°I see.¡± Artemis turned around.


    ¡°I¡¯ve sent Belle a more detailed briefing that you may review at your leisure. I await punishment.¡± Aelfric bowed his head deep.


    ¡°Aelfric. You are to answer me clearly, without hesitation. Am I understood?¡±


    ¡°Of course, my Lady.¡±


    ¡°Unlike past instances, our usual methods aren¡¯t possible. Do you agree?¡±


    ¡°Yes. I fail to conceive of any plausible approach. There¡¯s no way outsiders would have this information.¡±


    ¡°Hm. I¡¯m aware you¡¯re not much more familiar with ALTR than I am, but do you think it possible I could speak with Reina?¡±


    ¡°I would need to consult with Belle to be sure, however, should you desire it, I overheard something that may present such an opportunity.¡±


    ¡°Do so. You¡¯re also to begin preparations for an extraction team. Dismissed.¡± Artemis paused. Aelfric looked up in surprise. ¡°And thank you.¡± She disappeared, leaving the awestruck Aelfric kneeling on the moon.


    Aelfric came to his senses and stood in a prideful manner with his arm over his chest. ¡°I will devote my everything, as always, Lady Artemis.¡± He disappeared and the ALTR-verse imploded.


    Several weeks later, Artemis sat on the edge of a luxurious bed. The general aesthetic of the room conveyed an expensive penthouse yet it appeared void of anything beyond Artemis and the bed. It looked as if no one lived there. She wore silk pajamas. If she felt drowsy, it did not show.


    ¡°What is it?¡± Artemis asked.


    Aelfric¡¯s voice resounded in her ear via IRIS. ¡°My Lady, you must forgive me for waking you. However, an extremely favorable situation has occurred. Tonight was the duel they had been assigned security. It went without incident. They appear extraordinarily unhappy with this outcome, it seems. Yuna made her displeasure clear, even resulting in chastisement by Celeste and¡ª.¡±


    ¡°Get to the point, Aelfric.¡±


    ¡°Apologies, my Lady. Setting the other details aside, I¡¯ve learned not only is Reina planning to ¡®de-stress¡¯ at her cafe, Yuna will be doing something in ALTR as well. And as I informed you prior, Celeste and Leon are habitual sleepers, which is soon. If I may speak bluntly, there may never be a more opportune time. However, I¡¯m aware our planning is insufficient to our usual standards.¡±


    In Aelfric¡¯s brief pause, Artemis spoke. ¡°I trust your judgment. I assume Belle¡¯s already been informed. You are hereby authorized to commence the operation and act of your own volition.¡±


    ¡°Affirmative. Orders received.¡±


    ¡°Belle?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m here. I have your ALTR prepared, Miss Artemis,¡± Belle said. ¡°I will play interference outside while remaining in contact with Aelfric. Please let me know if you have any concerns.¡±


    Stolen from Royal Road, this story should be reported if encountered on Amazon.


    ¡°I have none. I¡¯ve studied the character you devised and understand the logic. It¡¯s sound. My only concern is with my own execution.¡±


    Muffled celebratory sounds resounded in Artemis¡¯ ear. ¡°So awesome,¡± Belle muttered.


    ¡°Please, Belle,¡± Aelfric said. ¡°mute yourself if you¡¯re going to act disgracefully.¡±


    ¡°Oh, shut up, Aelfy.¡± The pair bickered back and forth briefly.


    ¡°Ahem.¡± Artemis cleared her throat.


    ¡°Sorry.¡± They said in unison.


    On a narrow street, nestled amongst various buildings and businesses, a quaint cafe storefront read ¡®The Cafe¡¯s Meow¡¯. Inside, Reina shuffled about behind a counter at the back. She appeared as an older version of herself with short chic hair and wore an apron. Her movements were deliberate, conveying an experience of preparing for the day. The cafe exuded a cozy atmosphere. Over a dozen cats played, slept and lazed about various cat towers. A soft bell rung as a middle-aged business woman entered. Her clothing and appearance exuded wealth. Reina turned to the front.


    ¡°Welcome ma¡¯am, please sit wherever,¡± Reina said. ¡°The cats are all very friendly.¡± She returned to preparations. ¡°I¡¯ll be with you in a moment.¡±


    So this is how she looks, Artemis thought. Well, possibly. There¡¯s so many cats. Too many. But I mustn¡¯t think like that. She looked around as she approached the back counter. I can relate to Belle¡¯s character some¡­ certainly not the liking cats part, but feeling embarrassment walking into such a place with this clothing. She stumbled as she tripped over a passing cat.


    ¡°Meow!¡± the cat whimpered.


    ¡°Oh, my!¡± Reina turned with a worried expression. ¡°Are you okay? I told him this was way too many cats.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m fine.¡± Artemis watched the cat saunter away. ¡°Is it?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m sure it¡¯s ones and zeros are perfectly fine, miss.¡±


    ¡°Ah. Right. Wait, are you not a NPC as well?¡± I hope I used that right.


    Reina chuckled. ¡°Indeed, I¡¯m an actual human.¡±


    ¡°I hope I didn¡¯t offend. I¡¯m new to all this ¡®ALTR¡¯, so I just assumed.¡±


    ¡°Think nothing of it. Until recently, I¡¯d have thought the same.¡± Reina returned to her work. Artemis moved to sit at the counter.


    ¡°If I may ask, why?¡±


    ¡°Why am I running a virtual cat cafe?¡± Reina scribbled a menu onto a chalkboard.


    ¡°Yes, it¡¯s¡­¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry, I totally get where you¡¯re coming from. I don¡¯t mind answering, but a friendly tip, other ¡®real¡¯ shop owners might not react well. I might know from experience.¡± Reina gave a nervous giggle. ¡°I had to have a friend explain to me about the roleplay of it all. Before that, though, menu¡¯s ready, sorry for the wait.¡± Reina placed the chalkboard onto the wall. Artemis ordered and Reina began making coffee. ¡°Ah! How rude. I¡¯m still new to this, too. My name¡¯s Reina. Sincerest apologies, Miss?¡±


    ¡°A¡ª.¡± Artemis paused. ¡°Alexandria. A pleasure to meet you.¡±


    ¡°Likewise. So. As you¡¯ll notice, I¡¯m not just pulling your order out of thin air.¡±


    ¡°Yes, this is rather unexpected.¡±


    ¡°Again, I can relate. To answer your question, people have all kinds of different reasons for running a virtual shop that technically holds no real value. For me, it¡¯s about doing something I can¡¯t in real life. Plus, I discovered in an authentic coffee-making sim game that it¡¯s a strangely relaxing process for me. Pretty weird, I know.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m sure there are far stranger pastimes.¡±


    Reina giggled. ¡°Very true.¡±


    ¡°If I understood you correctly earlier, this may be a taboo question, so please forgive me if I offend. What do you mean by ¡®can¡¯t in real life¡¯?¡±


    ¡°Indeed, that would be taboo to many and you definitely want to be careful as ALTR is an escape for most. I don¡¯t mind, however. My situation¡¯s a little complicated but I¡¯m basically confined to a bed. Even standing like this is something I don¡¯t experience.¡±


    ¡°Oh, my apologies. That was terribly insensitive of me.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s fine, honest. Your order will be ready soon.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m looking forward to it.¡± Okay, Belle¡¯s script is playing out eerily close. What was that advised part again?¡±


    ¡°Here you go.¡± Reina placed a coffee mug atop a saucer onto the counter. She observed in anticipation.


    ¡°Thank you.¡± Artemis sipped at the coffee while in thought. Surprise flashed across her face. She looked to Reina. ¡°It¡¯s exquisitely brewed.¡±


    ¡°Really?¡± Reina tried to temper her excitement.


    ¡°I wouldn¡¯t lie, even here. I drink a significant amount of coffee in real life. Too much. Trust me.¡±


    ¡°Wonderful. Although, just a reminder, you really want to avoid saying things like ¡®real life¡¯. Of course, you can still talk about such things, just don¡¯t directly reference it, some people can get¡­ scary.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ll remember that, thanks.¡± Artemis took another sip as a cat rubbed against her leg with a meow. She glanced at it, then reached to pick it up. ¡°Ah, yes. My own reason for coming here is I¡¯ve been too embarrassed to go into such a cafe.¡± She placed the cat on her lap and pet it.


    ¡°I suppose you would look out of place a bit.¡± Oops, was that rude? Careful with your words, Reina.


    ¡°Mm, yes. My attire. I¡¯m not very imaginative, this closely resembles what I always wear.¡± The pair shared a slight smile with one another. A brief silence set in as Artemis sipped again.


    ¡°This place is still new, so who knows if anyone else will come in soon. To tell you the truth, something I¡¯ve always had a strange admiration for is the bartenders and cafe owners who listen to their customer¡¯s troubles in shows and movies. So, only if you want to, please bend my ear. It can be about anything.¡±


    ¡°Do you love cats?¡±


    ¡°Ahh¡­¡± Reina chuckled nervously. ¡°¡¯Love¡¯ might be a little strong. It¡¯s kinda hard to explain but the cats are somewhat of a joke by my friend who set this place up for me. I really need to remember to ask how to reduce the, uh, amount though.¡±


    Artemis made a soft, almost imperceptible chuckle. ¡°There are certainly a lot for the space.¡±


    ¡°Yeah.¡± The pair went on to discuss various topics for a time, like general current events, emerging technologies, and some light ALTR talk along with a few refills.


    ¡°After speaking with you, I think your perspective could help me,¡± Artemis said. ¡°May I ¡®bend your ear¡¯ on a rather serious scenario?¡±


    ¡°Sure. Please don¡¯t expect too much of me, though.¡±


    ¡°Appreciated. I can¡¯t speak in specifics, so hopefully this will be enough. Say you were among a group of people being given an opportunity that would change your lives over night for the better. Now, for everyone but you, their lives improved immeasurably. However, unforeseen circumstances result in the opportunity changing your life for the worst - significantly and possibly forever.¡± Artemis paused. ¡°Would you resent the others or those who gave that opportunity? Would you prefer that opportunity never happened? Please take your time.¡±


    ¡°Hmm.¡± Reina paused for only a moment. ¡°This scenario sounds strangely familiar. Obviously, it sucks I¡¯d be the only one where things don¡¯t work out. And I can¡¯t be sure there wouldn¡¯t be any resentment. But, I definitely wouldn¡¯t want everyone else to miss out just because of me. I really don¡¯t know how other people would feel about this, though. I feel like that wasn¡¯t what you were looking for?¡± Artemis had a blank expression.


    Xandr would usually chime in, especially by now, Artemis thought. Peculiar. But, this girl. Reina Vyx. Absolutely remarkable. I even presented a harsher query than I¡¯d intended, yet little hesitation in her response. I fear how I may have responded in real life without this extra sensory control afforded to me.


    ¡°On the contrary, that was extremely helpful, thank you. I¡¯m sincerely grateful,¡± Artemis said. A message bubble popped up that only she could see. It read ¡®In position¡¯.


    ¡°Huh? Really? Sure, you¡¯re welcome,¡± Reina said.


    ¡°It was a pleasure speaking with you, and a truly delicious coffee. I must be going now.¡±


    ¡°Oh, of course. Thank you for your patronage.¡± Reina gave a slight bow. ¡°Ah, no hard feelings if you don¡¯t want to, but I¡¯ve sent you a friend request. Please come again.¡±


    ¡°I might.¡± Artemis stood. ¡°One last question, if I may?¡±


    ¡°Sure.¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t think, just answer. If you were given the choice between a new body, or fixing your current one, which would you choose?¡±


    ¡°Fix? I guess? New would be kinda scary. Wait a minute. Did I¡­ ever¡­¡± Reina fell to the floor, asleep. ¡°say¡­?¡±


    Meanwhile, several minutes earlier, at Vyxora apartments around midnight, the building slumbered like any typical night. Aelfric stood atop the building in his pitch-black Aegis suit. An enormous drone landed nearby, many times larger than the typical taxi-drones.


    ¡°Affirmative. Commencing operation,¡± Aelfric said. His suit changed into a shadowed gray.


    Half a dozen soldiers in Aegis suits filed out of the drone. Faint speech of several more individuals within a room at the center of the drone escaped before the doors shut. The soldiers held various bags and tools. After a brief time, they stood at attention to Aelfric. Only they could hear his words via their suits.


    ¡°All residents are confirmed neutralized,¡± Aelfric said. ¡°We should encounter no resistance. You are expected to execute with no deviations, per our preparations. Anything outside of the mission will be punished severely. Am I understood?¡±


    ¡°Yes, sir.¡± several voices spoke in unison.


    ¡°Begin.¡±


    A short time later, they entered the Vyx family apartment. Aelfric orchestrated their movements with gestures as they carefully moved to Reina¡¯s room. After issuing a few more orders to the others while in her doorway, Aelfric moved to the dining area. He glanced between Celeste and Leon¡¯s room, to Yuna¡¯s room, over and over as noise grew from Reina¡¯s room. Then, as the sound of fire cutting metal reached a crescendo, Yuna appeared at her doorway. She had stabbed a transarm dagger into the side of the wall, holding to it tight. The left side of her body appeared limp as she struggled to keep even one eye open.


    ¡°What¡­ noise¡­¡± Yuna said in garbled speech.


    Aelfric turned back to her. A moment later, she lunged with the dagger pointed at his chest. However, he caught her arm with ease and cradled her back with his other arm as he gently brought her to the floor. Her head moved for a second as if to headbutt, but fell back a moment later.


    ¡°The¡­ fuu¡­¡± Yuna mumbled before passing out.


    ¡°An absurd woman. I tested the sleep paralytic myself.¡± Aelfric brought the dagger to the unconscious Yuna¡¯s throat. ¡°I should remove this obstacle from Lady Artemis¡¯ path forever.¡± His hand trembled. ¡°No.¡± He withdrew the blade, setting it alongside her. ¡°Even if I could accept my Lady¡¯s punishment for disobeying, I don¡¯t think I could live with such a cowardly act.¡± He glanced towards Celeste¡¯s room. ¡°And¡­¡±


    ¡°Sir?¡± a soldier asked. They stood in the hallway to Reina¡¯s room. Aelfric quickly stood and turned to them. ¡°Is there an issue?¡±


    ¡°No,¡± Aelfric said. ¡°Status?¡±


    ¡°Target has been safely procured.¡±


    ¡°Affirmative. I will verify. Prepare for extraction.¡±


    ¡°Yes, sir.¡±


    After a brief time in Reina¡¯s room, Aelfric exited with a few of the soldiers carefully pushing a large wheeled container. Glass atop it revealed a slumbering Reina, still within her ¡®bed¡¯. They had severed it from the floor and placed it within. Two soldiers fell behind a bit as the others followed Aelfric out. They carried several more bags, to which the other soldiers had carried separately prior.


    ¡°Fucking christ, this¡¯ heavy.¡± a man said. ¡°Was this really all necessary to kidnap some little girl?¡± The other soldier elbowed them, albeit with difficulty at what they carried, too.


    ¡°Shut the fuck up, dude.¡± a woman said. ¡°Do not fuck up this payday.¡± The pair neared Yuna.


    ¡°So much shit, though. Christ, my back.¡±


    ¡°That Aelfric guy doesn¡¯t tolerate complaining, shut up.¡±


    The man wobbled near Yuna. Aelfric appeared, stopping him with a hand.


    ¡°Careful,¡± Aelfric said. The pair froze. He transferred a few of the bags to himself. ¡°Continue.¡± He glanced at Yuna as they moved past. Her face twitched but nothing further followed.


    ¡°I¡¯m gonna fuckin¡¯ kill you if he doesn¡¯t kill us first.¡± the woman whispered.


    A short time later, they loaded Reina onto the drone. Several scientists and doctors waited inside the room. Doors closed as Aelfric stepped on and they flew off.

 Chapter 17 - No Strings Attached

    Yuna awoke in a puddle of drool on the Vyx apartment floor. She sat up in a daze, facing away from the front door. She glanced around as the morning sun filtered in. After rubbing her eyes, the daze faded as she dragged herself to a nearby chair and used it to pull herself up. She noticed the dagger at her feet.


    ¡°Huh? What¡¯s this doing here? Why am I even¡­?¡± Yuna glanced around again. ¡°Heads so fuckin¡¯ fuzzy.¡±


    Yuna shook her head violently, which made her dizzy. As she held herself up via the table, she spotted markings on the floor nearby. She stumbled toward the hall, gaining strength with each step. She pressed her hand against the wall as the tracks came into full view, which led from Reina¡¯s room. She raced forward with heavy steps. She entered to see the aftermath of Reina¡¯s bed severed from the floor. She paused for only a moment before turning around.


    ¡°No, no, no.¡±


    Yuna dashed down the hall. She saw her dagger again and grabbed it as she turned into the foyer. However, her legs cramped, sending her crashing into the wall. She stabbed the dagger into the wall to keep herself from collapsing, then punched her legs in fury.


    ¡°Fuck! What the hell, you bastards! Don¡¯t fuckin¡¯ betr¡ª.¡± Yuna froze, awestruck.


    Right in front of the Vyx home entrance sat Reina in a wheelchair. She slumbered peacefully. Her long hair cascaded over a winter coat and a blanket wrapped around her legs. Yuna willed herself forward, stabbing the wall along the way as her legs wobbled. She flung herself to the side of Reina, on her knees.


    ¡°This is Reina? Right? How?¡± Yuna patted various parts of Reina as if a heavier touch would break her. She cautiously cupped Reina¡¯s cheek. She felt Reina¡¯s steady breath upon her palm. ¡°This can¡¯t be real. I must be dreaming.¡± She pulled away, then held the dagger over her other forearm. Suddenly, Reina¡¯s hand fell weakly onto Yuna¡¯s wrist.


    ¡°Pinches work, dummy.¡± Reina whispered. Her fingers moved as if to pinch, but were too weak. Her eyes drowsily opened.


    ¡°Reina! It¡¯s really you?¡±


    ¡°I¡­¡± Reina¡¯s eyes darted about. She failed to lift her own head. She inhaled deeply. Sensations she had long forgotten flooded into her. The taste of the air. The smell of her home and Yuna. The weight of the coat and blanket. She coughed a little at the awareness of her breathing. Yuna observed with care, clearly holding herself back from embracing the confused Reina. Reina¡¯s eyes locked with Yuna¡¯s, which had a glassiness. ¡°¡­don¡¯t know?¡± Yuna lunged into Reina¡¯s cheek with her own while wrapping her arms all the way around the chair and Reina.


    ¡°I don¡¯t get it. I don¡¯t get it.¡± Yuna shook her head, rubbing her cheek into Reina. ¡°But you¡¯re my Reina. I know it. And you¡¯re okay.¡± She pulled back a little, leaving some dampness on Reina¡¯s cheek. ¡°Wait. You are okay, right?¡± She glanced hastily around Reina¡¯s form.


    ¡°I¡­think?¡±


    ¡°Are you hurt at all? Any pain?¡±


    ¡°No?¡±


    Yuna paused for a moment. ¡°Mom! Pops!¡±


    ¡°Ouch.¡± Reina recoiled at the sound.


    ¡°Oh. Sorry, sorry.¡± Yuna looked around. While still gripping Reina and the chair with her left, she picked up the dagger with her right. She cocked her arm. It reconfigured into a sword. She whipped it into the opposite wall. ¡°Wake up, you old fucks.¡± The sword penetrated to the hilt.


    ¡°Are you crazy? Mama¡¯s gonna¡ª.¡±


    ¡°Gall darnit, Yuna! You almost stabbed your father!¡± Celeste yelled. ¡°I don¡¯t care what the reason is, missy.¡± She stomped out into the dining area in pajamas. ¡°You¡¯ve gone way too far this time. A mouthful of soap is gonna be just the beg¡ª.¡± She froze at the sight of Reina and Yuna.


    ¡°Punish me later. Mom. It¡¯s Reina. It¡¯s really Reina. I don¡¯t get it. It makes no sense what¡¯s happening. She¡¯s weak, but she seems fine?¡± Yuna gestured at Reina as she looked at her. ¡°Right?¡± She glanced at Celeste.


    Celeste hurried over with an anxious expression. She bent and caressed Reina¡¯s cheek. ¡°Is it really you, hun? Reina? My lil¡¯ Reina?¡±


    ¡°I think?¡± Reina said. Determination flashed across Celeste¡¯s face.


    ¡°Are you hurt?¡± Celeste inspected Reina. ¡°Are you in pain, at all, anywhere? Yuna, some space.¡± She nudged Yuna, who withdrew just enough to not hinder Celeste. Celeste cycled through brief tests like checking Reina¡¯s eyes, pulse, and more. She did this while slinging questions at Reina, who would answer with a quiet ¡®no¡¯ or ¡®yes¡¯ each time.


    ¡°So?¡± Yuna asked.


    ¡°She seems¡­ fine?. Healthy, even?¡± Celeste¡¯s lips trembled as she locked eyes with Reina.


    ¡°Mama.¡± A faint smile formed on Reina¡¯s face.


    ¡°My little girl.¡± Tears drifted down Celeste¡¯s cheeks. ¡°Reina.¡±


    Celeste dropped to her knees, grabbed the back of Yuna¡¯s head, and brought their foreheads all together. Soft weeping resounded as the three embraced. Meanwhile, Leon had been watching stealthily from around the corner, as if to not distract Reina. At the sight of their embrace, he approached to Reina¡¯s free side. He kneeled and wrapped his arms around all three of them, chair included, as he joined them.


    ¡°Reina,¡± Leon said.


    A short time later, the Vyx family sat around their dining room table. Yuna had one hand over Reina¡¯s while she gestured to her door.


    ¡°I¡¯m struggling to remember anything,¡± Yuna said. ¡°The last clear memory was fighting in ALTR.¡± She described how she woke up.


    ¡°So, in other words, excluding Reina¡¯s bed and the roof door, you dealt more damage to our home than the intruders,¡± Celeste chastised. ¡°You will fix all the holes you put in the wall, missy. Am I understood?¡±


    ¡°Aw, come on. That¡¯s not fair.¡±


    Stolen content alert: this content belongs on Royal Road. Report any occurrences.


    ¡°Help,¡± Leon said.


    ¡°Fineee.¡±


    ¡°We can check the cameras later,¡± Celeste said. ¡°It seems likely they entered through the roof, took Reina and returned her before we awoke. It must¡¯ve been some kind of sleep paralytic based on Yuna¡¯s behavior. I can¡¯t think of any other way we wouldn¡¯t have woken, especially Leon. Hmm.¡± She slipped into thought.


    ¡°Okay?¡± Leon had a subtle worried expression as he patted Reina as if she would break with too much force.


    ¡°Yes, I¡¯m fine, Papa, really,¡± Reina said.


    ¡°Hm.¡±


    ¡°I swear I¡¯ll speak up if that changes, okay?¡±


    ¡°Mm.¡± Leon gave a slight nod.


    Reina turned to Yuna, who had been watching her with a delighted expression. ¡°What?¡±


    ¡°Just enjoying the view.¡± Yuna smiled.


    ¡°Stop being weird. Would you check my inner coat? I only just noticed a slight weight.¡±


    Yuna reached in. ¡°Hey, not bad.¡± She winked.


    ¡°Yuna.¡± Reina gave a slight glare.


    ¡°One sec.¡± Yuna pulled back the coat a bit, revealing an inner pocket. She then pulled out an envelope from within. She glanced at it. In print, it read ¡®No strings attached¡¯. ¡°No strings?¡±


    ¡°Let me see.¡± Celeste appeared behind Yuna, snatching the letter from her and startling her a little.


    ¡°Christ, Mom, when¡¯d you get there?¡±


    Celeste inspected the envelope, then extracted a letter, and unfurled it. She quickly read until Leon spoke.


    ¡°Read,¡± Leon said.


    ¡°Sorry, hun.¡± Celeste cleared her throat. ¡°¡®To whom it may concern, Reina¡¯s affliction has been fixed. Your residents in the basement should be able to verify her health. I debated whether to include this letter. However, I wanted it clarified that there are no strings attached to this act. Nothing will be asked of you, ever. None of the Vyxora will ever be approached regarding this manner. You have no reason to trust these words, yet I offer my apologies all the same for violating your home and committing this act without your and Reina¡¯s permission. It is due to various circumstances that such a reprehensible method was employed, but I will comment no further than that. May you have an expedient recovery, Reina.¡¯¡± Celeste turned the letter to and fro, looking for more words, but found none. ¡°The fuck?¡± Rage flashed across her face as she crumpled the letter.


    ¡°Language,¡± Yuna said.


    ¡°Breathe, Celeste,¡± Leon said. Celeste glanced around in a slight daze, then took a deep breath. Meanwhile, the front door opened and Val stepped in.


    ¡°Hey, did everyone oversleep? Where are you all?¡± Val called.


    A short time later, Reina sat in the chair Reina-cat usually did, in her basement room. Yuna sat in the wheelchair beside her. A disheveled Dante in a t-shirt and boxers drowsily exited his room. He moved toward a fridge, opened it, and took a drink out.


    ¡°Damn, that was a deep sleep.¡± Dante yawned. He took a swig and put the drink back. ¡°Wonder why I didn¡¯t hear from¡ª?¡± He glanced over to see Reina looking at him. ¡°Huh? Who?¡± He stopped.


    ¡°Hey¡­ Dante.¡± Reina had a faint smile and gestured a weak wave.


    ¡°That face looks familiar? You know me? Wait, nah? Couldn¡¯t be? Weird. Guess I¡¯m dreaming? Wonder what happens if I try ALTR right now.¡± Dante shook his head and moved toward his room.


    ¡°You¡¯re awake, ya idiot.¡± Yuna said, now standing beside Reina. ¡°It¡¯s Reina, in the flesh. How could you forget this adorable mug?¡± She placed her hand under Reina¡¯s chin, as if presenting her face.


    ¡°Quit it.¡± Reina gave a weak slap to Yuna¡¯s hand, and she withdrew.


    ¡°Uhh¡­¡± Dante said.


    ¡°Put some pants on,¡± Yuna said.


    A brief time passed as Reina and Yuna caught Dante up. He sat in his usual spot.


    ¡°Wow. That¡¯s pretty crazy,¡± Dante said. ¡°I¡¯m having a hard time processing it. How¡¯re you doing?¡± He looked at Reina, who stared at the screens while touching the dusty keyboard.


    ¡°I¡¯m fine. I think. It¡¯s a lot,¡± Reina said.


    ¡°Must be kinda surreal to actually be sitting there, huh?¡±


    ¡°Very.¡±


    ¡°We should get going. We weren¡¯t even supposed to stop, but Reina really wanted to,¡± Yuna said.


    ¡°I¡¯ve just never physically been here. I had to.¡±


    ¡°I get it. Just don¡¯t want Mom chewing me out.¡±


    ¡°Yeah, I¡¯d hurry if I were you,¡± Dante said. ¡°Knowing Celeste, she might¡¯ve rushed through her morning responsibilities by now.¡±


    ¡°Oh, shit. Especially with Val and Pops helping?¡± Yuna grabbed the wheelchair in haste and transferred Reina to it.


    ¡°Hey, watch where you¡¯re grabbing,¡± Reina said.


    ¡°Shush, it¡¯s your detour¡¯s fault.¡± Yuna turned them to the door.


    Suddenly, the door opened. Elias and Sophia attempted to enter at the same time, bumping into each other.


    ¡°Move it, ya old goat.¡± Sophia elbowed Elias hard in the ribs. She walked toward Reina. ¡°So it¡¯s true.¡±


    Elias coughed as he followed. ¡°Is that really you, Reina, my dear?¡± He asked.


    ¡°Hello, Sophia and Elias,¡± Reina said.


    ¡°We were just about to come see you two. Why¡¯re you here?¡± Yuna asked.


    ¡°Vyx message board,¡± Elias said.


    ¡°Of course it¡¯s her. This face is unmistakable.¡± Sophia had closed the distance and grabbed Reina¡¯s face, inspecting it.


    ¡°What in the world¡¯s happened?¡± Elias asked.


    ¡°Huh. Yup,¡± Dante said. ¡°¡®Princess Reina reborn?¡¯ It¡¯s a hot topic. Not that anyone actually knows for sure it¡¯s you, since they don¡¯t know what you look like. But I guess Yuna wheeling along a frail girl was plenty.¡±


    ¡°W-what?¡± Reina¡¯s cheeks flushed as Sophia turned her head back and forth. Elias now leaned in close as well. Yuna slapped away Sophia¡¯s hand.


    ¡°Settle down, you old fucks,¡± Yuna said. ¡°We need to get to your workshop before Mom catches up. You need to run a full health checkup on Reina, so you¡¯ll have plenty of time to bask in her adorableness.¡± They ignored her, both reaching for Reina. She in turn blocked them, corralling them toward the door in an instant. They grumbled, to which Yuna gave them a forceful shove.


    ¡°Alright, I get it,¡± Sophia said.


    ¡°No need for violence, girl,¡± Elias said.


    ¡°Dante, push Reina and follow. I don¡¯t trust these two to behave in the elevator.¡± Yuna guided the Nezins into the hallway.


    ¡°Guess I¡¯m coming.¡± Dante stood and grabbed the wheelchair handles.


    ¡°Sorry,¡± Reina said. Dante shrugged before following Yuna.


    ¡°No big. I¡¯m a bit curious. And you¡¯re crazy light, anyway. It¡¯s like you¡¯re not even there.¡± Reina shied a little from Dante¡¯s gaze. ¡°You know though¡­¡±


    ¡°What is it?¡±


    ¡°We¡¯re gonna have to get you a new ALTR. Kinda sounds like it got stolen. Well, at least we learned from my mistakes and have a proper backup system. Don¡¯t worry, I¡¯ve got your avys and even the Cafe.¡±


    Reina giggled and shook her head. ¡°Of course.¡± Even now, he treats me no differently. Unlike Mama, Papa, and Yuna¡­ and now Sophia and Elias. It¡¯s gonna be a long day. I¡¯m already so sleepy¡­ Reina dozed off.


    Later that night, Reina laid flat on her back at the center of Yuna¡¯s bed, who laid to her side. The room had dim light. They had one pair of hands interlocked under a shared comforter. Yuna, on her side, stared at Reina. She made an audible sniff.


    ¡°Are you gonna stay like that?¡± Reina asked.


    ¡°I¡¯d planned to,¡± Yuna said.


    ¡°Could you not sniff me, at least? You¡¯ve been so close all day.¡±


    ¡°Hehe. It¡¯s hard to resist. How¡¯s it feel to bathe after so long?¡±


    ¡°Strange, but nice. I¡¯d forgotten the sensation. Though I could¡¯ve done without so much ¡®help¡¯.¡±


    ¡°Again, hard to resist.¡±


    Reina sighed. ¡°Do you have to keep staring at me like that? It¡¯s gonna be hard to fall asleep.¡±


    ¡°Can you really blame me? This is literally a dream come true.¡±


    ¡°What?¡±


    ¡°I forgot about it until today,¡± Yuna spoke abnormally soft. ¡°After I first saw you for real when I started living here¡­ I¡¯d have dreams. Dreams about sleeping side-by-side with you, just like this. Most dreams are so weird and confusing. I¡¯m too dumb to know what they mean. But those were obvious. Just how much you already meant to me.¡±


    Reina turned her head. ¡°Yuna.¡± She had a faint smile. The pair exchanged a glassy-eyed gaze. ¡°I¡­ I did too.¡± She turned her head back and closed her eyes. Yuna had a gentle smile.


    Celeste entered the room in pajamas. ¡°May I join, girls?¡± Yuna appeared ready to object, but before she could, Celeste occupied the other side of Reina, lifting the covers for only a moment.


    ¡°Aw, come on, Mom, we were¡ª,¡± Yuna said. She stopped as Celeste somehow found and placed her hand over their¡¯s under the comforter in an instant. She met Celeste¡¯s gaze. She had a warm smile. They exchanged a myriad of thoughts without a word. ¡°Take a whiff.¡±


    Celeste sniffed at Reina. ¡°Mmm.¡± Her smile grew with an acknowledging glance at Yuna. Reina¡¯s eyes were heavy, barely open.


    ¡°Not you too¡­Mama,¡± Reina said. She drifted off.


    Celeste and Yuna exchanged another joyful glance. Celeste then looked at Reina¡¯s sleeping visage. Yuna glanced at where their hands intertwined, as she felt a slight tremble.

 Chapter 18 - Too Good

    Around midnight, Yuna awoke to Celeste slipping out from under the covers. She drowsily watched as Celeste left. Several minutes passed and as she almost slipped back into slumber, she recalled the tremble of Celeste¡¯s hand. She, too, slipped out with care, not that it mattered with Reina in a deep sleep. She exited her room to see Celeste with a directed light over only her at the dining table. Celeste cursed under her breath as she inspected the letter. A pack of closed cigarettes and lighter lay on the table. Yuna approached.


    ¡°Language,¡± Yuna said.


    Celeste looked up. ¡°I don¡¯t appreciate you mocking me, young lady. Don¡¯t think I missed it earlier, either.¡±


    ¡°Heh. Well, can count on one hand the times I¡¯ve heard you cuss. And now, swearing like, well, me? What¡¯s wrong?¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s-.¡±


    ¡°Shouldn¡¯t you be over the moon?¡± Yuna sat down. ¡°That¡¯s the letter, right?¡±


    ¡°It is. It¡¯s¡­ I don¡¯t want to say it.¡± Celeste sighed.


    ¡°Seeing you timid is creeping me out.¡± Yuna yawned. Celeste shot her a glare.


    ¡°It¡¯s too good to be true.¡±


    ¡°Huh? What is?¡±


    ¡°Reina.¡±


    ¡°But don¡¯t you trust the Nezins? They were so enamored with her clean bill of health, they¡¯d still be running tests if we hadn¡¯t snatched her away.¡±


    ¡°No, I do. They¡¯re the ones who figured out Reina¡¯s condition originally, after all. I still shudder to think with our circumstances what mighta happened without them. I know they¡¯ve even been working on a cure since. But it¡¯s not them I¡¯m worried about. In this life, something being too good to be true almost always is. I can promise you I¡¯ve never witnessed it.¡±


    ¡°Maybe this will be the first?¡±


    ¡°I dunno, hun. I can¡¯t shake this feeling. Have you remembered anything else? How you ended up where ya did?¡±


    ¡°Ahh, not really. It does bug me, but my thoughts are just all Reina right now. I still can¡¯t believe it. I¡¯ve been so fuc¡ª.¡± Yuna paused. ¡°¡ªangry about the duel. I finally had a chance to, well, you know. It doesn¡¯t even matter now. If there is a hidden price to pay, I¡¯ll pay it. Oh, uh, this sounds weird but, I feel like I heard ¡®Elf¡¯, oddly?¡±


    ¡°Hm, I see. I¡¯ll pay it, too, gladly. I¡¯d just like to know what it is.¡± Celeste stared at the letter. She looked back at Yuna. ¡°Why¡¯re you up, anyway, hun? I could fix ya something if yer hungry.¡±


    ¡°Uhh¡­ that¡¯s¡­¡± Yuna mumbled.


    ¡°Sorry fer bargin¡¯ in on your slumber party, by the by.¡±


    ¡°Geh.¡± Yuna grunted. ¡°No, no. When I felt your hand over ours, I instantly regretted that I even almost whined about you joining. You know I¡¯m awful at this stuff.¡± She groaned. ¡°But even I can recognize how selfish I¡¯ve been with Reina. And then I felt your hand trembling¡­¡±


    ¡°Oh.¡± Celeste paused apprehensively. ¡°Ya did?¡±


    ¡°I know we butt heads a lot,¡± Yuna continued without thinking, ¡°and sometimes I wonder if you even like me with all the nagging, plus my temper compared to you, but even I could tell something was wrong.¡±


    ¡°Oh, hun. That¡¯s just foolish. It¡¯s the opposite.¡±


    ¡°Huh? You¡¯ve lost me?¡± Suddenly, Celeste embraced Yuna into her chest, smothering her. Yuna resisted a bit, which Celeste ignored. Yuna tapped on Celeste. ¡°Hard to¡­ breathe.¡± Celeste tempered her hug.


    ¡°I love ya t¡¯ death, understand me?¡± Celeste looked down.


    ¡°Okay, I get it. Wasn¡¯t really asking for¡ª.¡±


    ¡°I know. I know you can only be that way with Reina. Poor Val, and, uh, those two gentlemen. I¡¯m saying it, anyway.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s¡ª. I, well¡­ you know.¡±


    Celeste returned to her seat with a grin. ¡°Rare to get you tongue-tied. I don¡¯t, not always, at least. It¡¯s appreciated. I¡¯ve worried you don¡¯t like me either, with all the naggin¡¯.¡± She sighed. ¡°I¡¯ve only mahself to blame tho¡¯. Your father¡¯s been scolding me for years for being too stubborn to fess up. Reminded just a bit ago, even.¡±


    ¡°¡®Fess up¡¯?¡±


    ¡°You wouldn¡¯t notice with Reina, because that¡¯s just how our darlin¡¯ is, but you ever think about how your swearin¡¯ doesn¡¯t bother your father, despite my harpin¡¯?¡±


    ¡°Not really?¡±


    ¡°Well.¡± Celeste took a deep breath. ¡°That¡¯s ¡®cause of me. Before Reina, I was just like you, hun, and as bad, if not worst.¡±


    ¡°You? Like me? No way, I don¡¯t believe you.¡±


    ¡°I swear I¡¯m tellin¡¯ tha truth.¡±


    ¡°Lame, Mom.¡±


    Celeste chuckled. ¡°It is, though. I¡¯d cuss out every fool that I stitched up. Including your father.¡±


    ¡°Hard to imagine. I¡¯d like to see that.¡±


    ¡°There¡¯s video evidence, unfortunately. Leon has it hidden somewhere.¡±


    ¡°You know I¡¯m gonna ask to see it?¡±


    ¡°I know. Movin¡¯ on. I¡¯ve finally fessed up so time to stop pussyfootin¡¯. I want you to understand why I¡¯m always on your case about swearin¡¯. The truth is, I once cussed out baby Reina somethin¡¯ fierce.¡± Celeste shook her head as she looked away. ¡°I don¡¯t even remember what it was about or what I said. But I remember lookin¡¯ at her. She had a peculiar look and wasn¡¯t even cryin¡¯ no more. And I said to myself, ¡®what the fuck is wrong with me?¡¯¡±


    Yuna burst into laughter, then stifled it with her hand. Celeste gave her a blank look. ¡°My bad. Picturing it, just, so funny for some reason.¡±


    A grin crept along Celeste¡¯s lips. ¡°Guess I never really thought about it. In hindsight, it is.¡± They shared a chuckle. ¡°Anyway, long story short, I stopped cussin¡¯. And after a while, I realized my flareups were weaker and weaker. My conclusion became that swearin¡¯ was just fuel for the fire.¡±


    ¡°So that¡¯s why ¡®language¡¯?¡±


    ¡°Yep. Shameful it¡¯s taken so long for me to fess up, hun. Sorry.¡±


    ¡°Hmm. It¡¯s nice to know why. If you were hopin¡¯ I¡¯d stop though, I think of them as relieving anger, if anything.¡±


    ¡°Well, hun, I¡¯m not gonna give up, either.¡± Celeste smiled as she placed the letter aside. ¡°Alright, that¡¯s enough worryin¡¯ for tonight.¡± She stood, to which Yuna followed. ¡°It was nice to clear some air, but I¡¯m a real fool,¡± Celeste placed her arm around Yuna¡¯s shoulder while moving. ¡°wastin¡¯ precious slumber time with my daughters.¡± Celeste kissed the side of Yuna¡¯s head with a peck. Yuna had a faint smile.


    A few days later, late afternoon, Dante stumbled out of his room. He glanced at Reina¡¯s terminal. He stopped at the familiar sight of the screens flickering with Reina-cat seated.


    ¡°So, uh, Reina-cat isn¡¯t retired?¡± Dante asked while approaching.


    ¡°Good afternoon, Dante,¡± Reina said. ¡°Of course not.¡±


    ¡°So, how¡¯re, you know, things?¡± Dante sat in his usual chair.


    ¡°You mean how is it not being confined to a bed twenty-four seven?¡±


    ¡°I suppose.¡±


    Reina giggled. ¡°Oh, right, you¡¯re the weirdo that was somehow jealous of that.¡±


    ¡°Did I say that?¡±


    ¡°Yes, when I first told you.¡±


    Dante gave a nervous chuckle. ¡°Does sound like me. I¡¯ve fantasized about it, honestly.¡±


    Reina laughed. ¡°I¡¯m not surprised.¡± The screens continued to move between their usual contents.


    ¡°So, why Reina-cat still?¡±


    ¡°Well, I won¡¯t be able to make it here myself anytime soon. Fortunately, Elias and Sophia already made a control unit for my avatars.¡±


    ¡°Ah, right. I see you¡¯re still being a workaholic mere days later. I¡¯d take a month off, at least.¡±


    Stolen from its rightful place, this narrative is not meant to be on Amazon; report any sightings.


    Reina chuckled. ¡°I can only do so much physical therapy in a day. And, I¡¯ve finally been given a reprieve,¡± she gave a profound sigh, ¡°from Mama and Yuna. They¡¯d been neglecting their duties. Don¡¯t get me wrong, I¡¯ve dreamt of this, but they¡¯re¡­¡±


    ¡°Suffocating?¡±


    ¡°Y-yeah.¡±


    ¡°Val mentioned it.¡± Dante shook his head. ¡°Poor Lawrence.¡±


    ¡°What?¡±


    ¡°Er, nothing.¡± I¡¯d rather not face Yuna¡¯s wrath if I told Reina that she slapped the guy so hard his knees buckled when he kept trying to meet with her.


    ¡°So, anything new with you?¡±


    ¡°Sure, but you know it¡¯s purely ALTR.¡±


    ¡°Obviously. I might¡¯ve mentioned needing a new ALTR and the Nezins are already working on it.¡±


    ¡°Oh-ho. Those noobs in my guild will be real happy. I¡¯d told them you might not be coming back after they kept pestering me when you¡¯d come online again. They took a real shine to your leadership. Personally, though, I¡¯d really love to power level you to get you raiding asap. I¡¯m betting you¡¯d be great at figuring out mechanics.¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t know about that, really?¡±


    ¡°Yeah. Though, I¡¯m a bit worried how the guild leader¡¯s wife will behave. She already badmouthed you some. She¡¯s the jealous type. Real pain in the ass.¡±


    ¡°What? Why?¡±


    ¡°Like I said, jealous. Just because it¡¯s ALTR, doesn¡¯t mean people stop sucking.¡±


    ¡°Oh.¡±


    ¡°Wait till you witness the toxicity of pvp. It¡¯s not surprising Yuna¡¯s been getting into it.¡±


    ¡°She has?¡±


    ¡°Uh, crap, she didn¡¯t want me to tell you yet. Please keep that a secret.¡± They discussed ALTR some more. ¡°Anyway. Good to know you remain a convert. By the way, unrelated, you should maybe stay away from the Vyx forum for a while.¡±


    ¡°Huh? Why?¡±


    ¡°A lot of it¡¯s about you.¡±


    ¡°Oh, I¡¯m sure I¡¯m just the recent hot topic, it¡¯ll die down like always, but thanks.¡±


    ¡°Right.¡± The screen¡¯s usual chaos slowed dramatically. A blood-red grotesque image appeared.


    Now that she¡¯s out of her ¡®shell¡¯, literally and figuratively, Dante thought, not noticing the screen. Almost everyone wants to meet her. Poor girl has no idea just how much she¡¯s idolized around here, does she? Sure in hell don¡¯t envy that.


    Reina gagged. Then, the sounds of her vomiting caught Dante¡¯s attention. ¡°Whoa, you okay? What¡¯s wrong?¡± His peripheral caught the grotesque image. He looked up. ¡°What the fuck?¡± The image displayed a mutilated human body, with body parts severed and out of place, partially re-attached to form some kind of abstract twisted sculpture. Dante gagged as he turned away, then hurried to a nearby trash can and vomited. Meanwhile, the image minimized.


    ¡°I¡¯m so sorry!¡± Reina coughed. Reina-cat turned to the hobbled Dante. ¡°Are you okay?¡±


    Dante grabbed a tissue and wiped his mouth as he glanced at the receptacle. ¡°I¡¯m glad I didn¡¯t have any breakfast.¡± He turned to Reina. ¡°I tend to avoid trauma-inducing stuff, but I¡¯m still pretty desensitized from my time in ALTR. But that?¡± He gagged a bit again. ¡°Indescribable.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m so, so sorry. It had a warning, but I¡¯ve seen some things, you know?¡± Reina tried to disguise a gag. ¡°I never thought. I don¡¯t even.¡±


    ¡°Yeah, uh, really wishing I could wipe that from my memory forever.¡±


    ¡°Sorry.¡±


    ¡°So, the hell was it? Some sicko send you something? It was real, right? Sure looked real.¡± Dante paused. ¡°Damn, do I even really wanna know?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ve been reviewing any correspondence I¡¯ve missed. It¡¯s real. It was found on display at the arena from those months ago, where¡­¡± Reina trailed off, turning back to the monitors.


    ¡°Yuna nabbed me? Plus, the whole brother shot dead thing.¡±


    ¡°Y-yes.¡±


    ¡°I see you still think I might be repressing emotions about that. Well, you¡¯re gonna be waiting forever if you don¡¯t just trust I¡¯m not bothered. Anyway.¡± Dante returned to his seat. ¡°Wasn¡¯t that place like, abandoned?¡±


    ¡°Yes, kinda. It¡¯s on indefinite hiatus from hosting any matches. It still gets checked on and, well, whatever that was, was found. They don¡¯t have any other information to share yet.¡±


    ¡°Sheesh. I¡¯m trying to forget, but it¡¯s like something you¡¯d see in a movie or show from some serial killer.¡±


    ¡°Hmm,¡± Reina mumbled.


    ¡°Probably wasn¡¯t Clayshi, right?¡±


    ¡°I can¡¯t fathom a reason it would be. But maybe it¡¯s related, somehow?¡±


    ¡°Huh.¡± They sat in silence for a time. ¡°By the way, sorry to sidetrack, but am curious. Didn¡¯t cameras catch anything from, er, your kidnapping?¡±


    ¡°Well, if my bed wasn¡¯t severed from the floor, I might think I was spirited away. They? Left no trace except the nerve gas. And we never had a reason to have cameras. Also, only Papa uses the roof for transport to council meetings.¡±


    ¡°Oh, the roof. Duh. Nerve gas, though, crazy. That do any lasting damage?¡±


    ¡°The twins ran tests and are still analyzing small traces, but they think it was just really effective at putting us to sleep, nothing else.¡±


    ¡°Guess it wouldn¡¯t make much sense to cause harm considering their apparent end goal. But, wait, what about like, your neighbors? They get gassed too? They didn¡¯t hear anything?¡±


    ¡°Huh?¡± Reina turned to Dante.


    ¡°What?¡± They stared blankly at one another.


    ¡°Do you not know only we live within the top two floors?¡±


    ¡°You do?¡±


    Reina had a soft chuckle. ¡°I guess it shouldn¡¯t surprise me by now. Bare minimum when not ALTR-related.¡±


    ¡°Eh?¡±


    ¡°Nothing. Outside of our apartment, the top two floors are only the bones for other apartments. They¡¯re mostly used for storage, some other stuff and, of course, an entrance to the roof.¡±


    ¡°Really? No kidding? Never knew. Or maybe I did and forgot. So that¡¯s how they nabbed you without alerting anyone.¡±


    ¡°Yes¡­ in hindsight, never even thought to secure it. A failure on my part.¡±


    ¡°You never take a break as Vyxora¡¯s overseer, even now? Sounds like a fortuitous failure if there ever was one. No fucking clue what the kidnappers got outta all this, but seems like they want no recognition. Security would¡¯ve complicated that. Right?¡±


    ¡°Still.¡±


    ¡°Ah, jeez. I haven¡¯t known you for long, but you¡¯re not gonna let this go, are you? Despite the letter?¡±


    ¡°I¡ª. Maybe.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯d say you should touch some grass, but not sure last time I saw any grass in real life. Whatever. You do you. So what¡¯s with the top floors?¡±


    ¡°There¡¯s no special reason. They¡¯re just unfinished.¡±


    ¡°Didn¡¯t your folks buy this place like fifteen or so years ago?¡±


    ¡°Yes. At a discount. The developers had to sell and our apartment was like a demo, I think. I know Mama intended to have them finished, but we¡¯ve never had the extra credits to spare.¡±


    ¡°That doesn¡¯t surprise me. Honestly, not sure how you guys stay afloat. Celeste is so generous with rent and stuff that even I¡¯m starting to feel guilty I don¡¯t do enough.¡±


    ¡°I can always find you more things to do.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s uh, well, you know¡­¡± Dante mumbled. Reina giggled. ¡°Oh, yeah. Forgot to ask, how¡¯s it feel, being un-bedridden?¡±


    ¡°I kinda still am. But it¡¯s weird. Really, really weird. I feel like I¡¯ve forgotten even basic movements. And sometimes it feels like I might pull a muscle just making them, if I even have any left. Yuna and Mama are so warm, though. I¡¯d forgotten how that feels. It¡¯s nice.¡±


    ¡°Sounds rough, but time will help. Yuna does run pretty hot.¡±


    ¡°Huh? You know? When?¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t think she¡¯d get mad at me if I share this now.¡± Dante retold of Yuna¡¯s backbreaking hug after he introduced Reina to ALTR.


    ¡°She said that?¡±


    Dante nodded. ¡°Alright, I¡¯m gonna catch some more z¡¯s.¡± He stood and walked away.


    ¡°Thanks, Dante. Sorry again for the image, and don¡¯t worry, I¡¯ll find some things for you.¡±


    ¡°Fuck.¡± Dante cursed under his breath.


    A few days later, Aelfric kneeled before Artemis in the usual manner via the ALTR moon.


    ¡°Apologies, Lady Artemis,¡± Aelfric said in a solemn tone. ¡°I have felt Celeste¡¯s eyes on me an abnormal amount, even though nothing else has changed. I¡¯ve limited my intelligence gathering in caution.¡±


    ¡°Has she confronted you in any way?¡± Artemis asked.


    ¡°No. Not even a single unorthodox question. Therefore, I can not rule out paranoia on my part.¡±


    ¡°Continue as you are, then. You¡¯re to inform Belle immediately if the situation changes, understood?¡±


    ¡°Yes, my lady.¡± Aelfric gave details on the state of Vyxora, including what he had gleaned of Reina.


    ¡°So they decided to keep the incident to themselves? Perhaps my letter was enough, but we should not underestimate that family. Were I them, I¡¯d surely think it was too good to be true, ¡®no strings¡¯.¡±


    ¡°I agree, my Lady. Belle thinks they¡¯ll ¡®get over it¡¯ and accept it after enough time passes, but I can not agree based on experience thus far. Despite them appearing to be in permanent financial instability, and especially considering the area Vyxora is located, the residents live quite well under Celeste¡¯s guidance. It occurred to me she would make an excellent executive at Aegis.¡±


    ¡°Is that so?¡± Artemis asked with a keen glance, to which Aelfric nodded. A brief silence passed.


    ¡°I must ask, Aelfric. Regardless of the Reina matter, there¡¯s still the possibility you will be required to remove the Vyx from the board. Should I have cause for concern?¡± Artemis observed Aelfric. A rare crack in his typical serious visage rippled.


    ¡°Whoa, whoa, whoa. That was a mean spirited question.¡± Xandr chastised. ¡°Come on, Artemis. I know things would have to change drastically for you to even consider such a thing now. Isn¡¯t this just jealousy speaking?¡±


    ¡°I¡­Ye¡ª,¡± Aelfric said.


    Artemis turned away. ¡°Nevermind. Disregard that question.¡±


    ¡°Good girl,¡± Xandr said.


    ¡°Shut. Up. I thought I was free of you while in here,¡± Artemis thought.


    ¡°Can¡¯t escape yourself.¡±


    ¡°So. You said you saw the ¡®Reina-cat¡¯ mere days after, correct?¡±


    ¡°Yes, my Lady.¡± Aelfric did his utmost to disguise his relief.


    ¡°To think she would return to work so quickly.¡±


    ¡°Yes, it sounded like she only missed two days, to Celeste¡¯s dismay.¡±


    ¡°Quite remarkable. It would not surprise me, however, if she shares her mother¡¯s suspicions. Keep me apprised of even small things.¡±


    ¡°Understood. I know it¡¯s not my place, but I¡¯ve wondered if we could recruit her somehow. Perhaps we should have used the cure as leverage?¡±


    Artemis turned back with a fierce glare. ¡°No.¡± Her grave tone visibly shook Aelfric, who bowed his head.


    ¡°Forgive me, my Lady.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s fine.¡±


    ¡°Heyy, this is your chance. Tell the poor boy you¡¯d never do that. This is like your only remaining redeeming quality,¡± Xandr said.


    ¡°Quiet,¡± Artemis thought.


    ¡°Belle informed you of the grotesque display, correct?¡±


    ¡°Yes. I overheard something that alludes to Reina knowing about it as well. Have they been identified?¡±


    ¡°Yes. It was the two men you left knocked out.¡±


    ¡°Two? I thought it was one body found?¡±


    ¡°The other¡¯s head was within the chest. More body parts were found as well in an abhorrent message. It seemed to be a title for the display. ¡®Face Finding Mission¡¯. Truly reprehensible.¡±


    ¡°Is only the council investigating the scene?¡±


    ¡°Yes. It¡¯s being kept quiet, at least to the degree such organizations are capable of. However, in all likelihood, Siegfried has given reason to believe he¡¯s behind this. He left a message for Viktor and myself, the night of that last duel. ¡®With another no-show of the perpetrator, I shall now embark on an intensive investigative pursuit, starting from the ground up. Apologies if I am unable to be reached at all times going forward.¡¯ The timing and victims cannot be mere coincidence. Therefore, we will proceed under this assumption.¡±


    ¡°I fail to understand what purpose such barbarism serves.¡± Aelfric shook his head.


    ¡°Unfortunately, this may only be the beginning. We will find out in due course. We can only continue to observe for now. Speaking of, what¡¯re your thoughts on departing Vyxora? You may speak freely.¡±


    ¡°Yes, my Lady. I know we discussed leaving after confirming Reina¡¯s health, and with there possibly being some suspicion cast towards me, risk has increased. However, while I desire to return to your side, I believe there may still be valuable intel to obtain. Given this new information, specifically, regarding Siegfried''s current and future actions.¡±


    ¡°I see. Very well. We will maintain course for now. I simply hope you¡¯re not underestimating any attachments you may have gained.¡±


    ¡°No, Lady Artemis!¡± Aelfric protested, then tempered his voice. ¡°I worry of Belle¡¯s efficacy at your side, but I know our mission must be at the forefront of my actions.¡±


    ¡°Was that convincing enough for you? Jeal¡ª,¡± Xandr said.


    ¡°You¡¯re too harsh on Belle. She may be overtly¡­ energetic, in comparison, but fulfills her duties sufficiently. I¡¯m content we¡¯re on the same page, however. I, too, think Reina may offer valuable insight into Siegfried. It¡¯s clear that caution at this juncture is paramount.¡±

 Chapter 19 - Sculptor

    Several weeks later, in an underground parking structure beneath Argonix headquarters, police worked to cordon off a large area. They had set up a tent within. They directed morning commuters far away from the section. Forensics officers moved in and out of the tent. Off to the side, at a trash can, a young detective hunched over and vomited, then wiped his mouth. An older detective stood nearby. He wore a long coat, with a suit and tie beneath, along with a brimmed hat. He had a silver scruffy beard and gray-tinged eyes. While staring intently at the tent, he took a drag of his cigarette. He glanced at the young man.


    ¡°Empty your stomach yet, rook?¡± He asked in a gravely tone.


    ¡°I think so...¡± The young man looked at the tent for a moment, then turned and vomited again.


    ¡°Want a smoke?¡±


    ¡°Are those real?¡± The young man tried to compose himself.


    ¡°Unfortunately. For my wallet.¡±


    ¡°Why would you use those these days?¡±


    ¡°Tried ¡®modern¡¯. Didn¡¯t do it for me. I¡¯ll take that as a no.¡± He took a drag. ¡°Do ya consider yourself a lucky man, rook? Betcha enjoyed that big breakfast, gotta fuel up for the day after all. Sure, you¡¯re meant to be a leash on ol¡¯ Griff, but you still want to do the work, right? Best think yourself unlucky, starting now.¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t follow, sir.¡±


    ¡°What¡¯s your name again?¡±


    ¡°Tau, sir,¡± Tau said.


    ¡°Listen up, Tau. I don¡¯t like bullshit. So I¡¯m gonna tell ya straight, you couldn¡¯t have a worst first case and worst partner than this. I¡¯d recommend you start skipping breakfast, no matter how pretty your wife is.¡± Griff took a long drag.


    ¡°I made breakfast this morning, sir.¡±


    Griff exhaled. ¡°Don¡¯t care. They¡¯re gonna be unhappy with you, is my point, I can promise you that. Y¡¯see, I¡¯m already familiar with the sick fuck behind this. That means I¡¯ve already failed before. Get me? I¡¯m gonna be goin¡¯ hard.¡± He crushed the lit cigarette in his hand and tossed it in the trash can. ¡°So if you¡¯re determined to watch me like I¡¯m sure you¡¯ve been told to, good luck keeping up with me, rook.¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t know what you mean, sir.¡±


    ¡°I just said no bullshit, didn¡¯t I?¡± Griff gave Tau a hard pat as he walked toward the tent, who winced at Griff¡¯s alcohol-tinged breath and tobacco smell.


    Griff entered the tent, with Tau following. Blinding bright light filled the volume of the tent. Several forensic officers meticulously cataloged an otherworldly grotesque scene. The bodies of a man and woman had been cleaved in half from head to toe, then loosely matched up and merged back into the semblance of a person. They wore no clothing and showed numerous signs of mutilation. Griff sighed as he looked at various body parts, some mere bones, spelling out ¡®When Worlds Collide¡¯ on the ground.


    ¡°Definitely the fucking ¡®Sculptor¡¯. Cocksucker always leaves a title,¡± Griff lamented. ¡°Hey! You.¡± He pointed to a nearby forensic technician. ¡°ID the vics yet? Wild guess. One¡¯s a lowly janitor, maybe security, and the other¡¯s an exec.¡±


    ¡°Not yet, Detective.¡±


    ¡°Well, look who¡¯s missing today. Check those positions first. You.¡± Griff pointed to another. ¡°Get me a scan of what¡¯s left of their brains.¡±


    ¡°What? A scan, detective? Why?¡±


    ¡°Just fuckin¡¯ do it,¡± Griff snapped at the technician, who flinched. After a short time passed of them using a device to scan, they signaled to him. He viewed the scan via his IRIS. ¡°Yep, soup. Not a copycat.¡±


    Later that afternoon, at Vyxora apartments, Yuna carried Reina upon her back in the courtyard. A sizeable crowd had gathered and continued to grow around them. Yuna boasted of Reina¡¯s attractiveness, as if showing off a trophy. Resident after resident vied for Reina¡¯s attention, speaking over one another as she reciprocated with weak handshakes and a faint smile. She grew paler with each passing minute. Yuna soon noticed the increasingly rapid beat of Reina¡¯s heart on her back. She turned to meet Reina¡¯s gaze.


    ¡°You okay?¡± Yuna asked.


    ¡°Could¡­use a break,¡± Reina said in a faint tone.


    ¡°Alright!¡± Yuna shouted loud enough to silence the crowd for a moment. ¡°That¡¯s enough of the Reina-parade for today.¡±


    Yuna effortlessly split them aside as she moved to the elevator, ignoring some protesting of those who hadn¡¯t gotten to greet Reina. A few of the residents calmed others as they marveled at how they¡¯d at last gotten to meet Reina. They spoke as they¡¯d met a celebrity, bragging about her looks and attitude to one another. They naturally broke off into groups, regaling one another of times Reina had helped them one way or another. Their stories ranged from minor acts of help like gift ideas or homework to weighty financial, life, and work advice. Some even shared how Celeste and Reina not only helped them enter rehabilitation for addictions, but assisted out of the Vyxora coffers.


    A short time passed before Yuna entered her room. She¡¯d asked Reina a few times on her condition, receiving faint responses of assurance. With extreme care, she laid Reina on the bed.


    ¡°You really okay?¡± Yuna asked.


    ¡°Just tired. Could you, water?¡± Reina asked. Yuna nodded and dashed out.


    Reina sat up, hunched over a bit. Her breathing had become erratic and short, intensifying even more after Yuna left. As the time between breaths shortened further, she recalled the scene only a short while ago, with so many people surrounding her. She grasped at her chest as her heart beat faster and faster. Sweat rolled off her nose. A panic set in while she hyperventilated until fainting.


    Later that night, Dante lazily surfed the web at his terminal alongside Reina-cat. She kept glancing at him, which went unnoticed. Her screens would spring to life several times in this manner, pausing at intervals. Then she brought up a website related to medical diagnosis. As she searched for some symptoms, she kept checking to see if he looked over, but he never did.


    ¡°Dante?¡± Reina asked.


    ¡°Nothing new at¡ª,¡± Dante rattled off several websites, forums, and social media platforms.


    ¡°Right, thanks. May I¡ª.¡± Reina paused. ¡°May I ask you a personal question?¡±


    ¡°Huh? Can¡¯t imagine what, but, yeah, whatever, go ahead.¡± Dante yawned.


    ¡°Have you ever had a panic attack?¡±


    ¡°¡®Panic attack¡¯? Not that I can recall. Why?¡±


    ¡°I think I might¡¯ve had one.¡± Reina recounted her experience earlier in the day. ¡°I¡¯m pretty sure I fainted, but fortunately, Yuna thought I just fell asleep. I don¡¯t want to worry Mama and her yet.¡±


    ¡°Hmm. I think I¡¯d probably have one too, with all that attention.¡±


    ¡°Really? You don¡¯t think something else might be wrong with me? I¡¯m kinda grasping¡­hoping at it just being a panic attack, honestly.¡±


    ¡°How come? Oh, right, the whole body thing.¡±


    ¡°Yes, I¡¯ve been researching, and it fits the most. I was hoping you might know more, though?¡±


    ¡°Sorry, don¡¯t think I can offer much.¡± Dante noticed Reina-cat¡¯s head droop. A few moments passed. ¡°You know what, I vaguely remember talking with a guildy who has social anxiety, panic attacks, all that jazz. Let me think.¡± Reina-cat perked up, watching Dante. ¡°Think they said it¡¯s like feeling claustrophobic no matter where you are? Like a surrounding pressure closing in? That sound familiar?¡±


    ¡°Yes! Everyone¡¯s voices started blurring together and my heart kept beating faster and faster. A pressure, exactly.¡±


    ¡°Well then, there you go. Hey, if you want, maybe they¡¯re online. We could hop on.¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t you think that¡¯d be weird to just bring up?¡±


    ¡°Nah, misery loves company. For those in ALTR willing to talk about RL, they love meeting those with similar issues.¡±


    If you stumble upon this narrative on Amazon, be aware that it has been stolen from Royal Road. Please report it.


    ¡°Wew. This is such a relief. I can¡¯t even guess how Mama and Yuna would¡¯ve reacted if it was something more serious.¡± Reina paused. ¡°Well, I guess it''s still something to worry about.¡±


    ¡°Eh, you could just avoid people.¡±


    ¡°Of course you¡¯d say that.¡± Reina giggled. ¡°I think I¡¯ll take you up on your offer, though.¡±


    ¡°Sweet.¡± Dante stood. ¡°Let¡¯s go.¡±


    ¡°Dante, I know you¡¯re using this as an excuse to get back to ALTR sooner, but thanks. I really appreciate it. And you listening in the first place.¡±


    Dante chuckled. ¡°You got me. No big, though. If I were you, I¡¯d probably seek me out too over them for obvious reasons. Though, keep your expectations low now and in the future, I¡¯m no therapist.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ll keep that in mind, thanks.¡±


    ¡°Funny. Just occurred to me. Even a loving family can be a burden.¡±


    ¡°Yes¡­¡± Reina murmured. A brief silence ensued.


    ¡°Thought you¡¯d maybe protest that after it came outta my mouth. I haven¡¯t corrupted you, have I? Because I am not willing to deal with the consequences of my actions.¡±


    Reina chuckled. ¡°My thoughts are my own, thanks.¡±


    ¡°Fair enough.¡± Dante shrugged and walked away. Then a loud sound beeped. ¡°What was that?¡±


    ¡°Checking now. I only have sound enabled for important notifications.¡±


    ¡°Like a news alert?¡±


    ¡°Yes, but mostly only from information brokers.¡±


    ¡°Alright, well, I¡¯ll be¡ª.¡±


    ¡°There was another murder!¡±


    ¡°You mean like that one?¡± Dante reluctantly turned to Reina. ¡°Please, no pics.¡±


    ¡°There aren¡¯t any, yet. Sounds like the police are keeping a tight lid on info so far. But, get this, it¡¯s supposedly two Argonix employees found beneath their headquarters, in a parking garage.¡±


    ¡°Ah, jeez. That pretty much rules out the first one being coincidence, doesn¡¯t it?¡±


    ¡°It must.¡± Reina¡¯s screens sprang to life per usual, flipping through various sources.


    ¡°You¡¯re not coming anymore, are you?¡± Dante asked. Reina gave no response. He sighed, then returned to his seat. ¡°Lame ass notification, was so close to an early night.¡± I could just go, but is it worth the risk? Celeste and Yuna were not subtle of there being consequences if I didn¡¯t warn them of Reina skipping sleep. Yeah¡­just suck it up, bro. Remember, the faster she gets healthy, means less work down the road.


    Several days later, mid-morning, Griff and Tau ascended the steps to the Vyxora apartments.


    ¡°¡®member, kid, don¡¯t overreact to anything you see,¡± Griff said. ¡°This group¡¯s a laid back bunch, but they¡¯ve got fangs. Can¡¯t have you looking like easy prey.¡±


    ¡°How do you know a syndicate boss when you only just transferred, sir?¡± Tau asked.


    ¡°Long ass story, rook. And I¡¯m from Lyrsium. Did they not trust you with a dossier on me or something? Christ. What kinda spy are you?¡±


    ¡°I was told they wanted an unbiased opinion first, sir.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m glad we already got over the phase where you pretend you¡¯re not. Ha. My track record is impressive, though. That¡¯s why they tolerate me. Anyway. Do me a favor and don¡¯t complicate things, alright?¡±


    ¡°Yes, sir.¡±


    As they reached the top, Leon came into view. Val and a few others chatted near the entrance. Leon walked to meet Griff. Tau marveled at Leon¡¯s stature the closer they got.


    ¡°Griff,¡± Leon said.


    ¡°Good to see you too, old friend,¡± Griff said. They grabbed each other by the forearm, pulling into one another for a brief embrace. As they pulled back, loud stomping steps rang out behind Leon.


    ¡°Sorry,¡±


    Griff sighed. ¡°Couldn¡¯t hide it from her, huh? It¡¯s alright. You never could, from her.¡±


    Griff adjusted his hat to one side. Leon stepped aside, revealing Celeste marching straight to Griff, her fury palpable. Mere steps away, she pulled her arm back with an open palm. Griff appeared to angle his face.


    ¡°You¡¯re looking well, Ce¡ª,¡± Griff said. At the same time, Celeste unleashed her arm forward. Mid-way, the palm closed into a fist before striking Griff square on the cheek. His knees buckled from the blow, sending him to the ground. Tau appeared shocked for a moment, then moved toward Celeste, who glared at Griff.


    ¡°Ma¡¯am! You just assaulted an officer!¡± Tau yelled as he reached for Celeste. However, before his arm even half-extended, Leon gently swatted it away. Despite the gentleness of the touch, the strength behind it still threw Tau off-balance.


    ¡°Christ, kid, I said don¡¯t overreact,¡± Griff said. ¡°This¡¯ personal. No law involved.¡± Tau looked at Griff in astonishment as he regained his balance.


    ¡°But sir,¡± Tau said.


    ¡°Help me up.¡± Tau helped Griff stand. ¡°Should¡¯ve known better.¡± Griff rubbed his cheek and stretched his jaw as he picked up his hat before facing Celeste.


    ¡°She¡¯s married, you know,¡± Celeste said, her voice crackling with anger. ¡°That could¡¯ve been you.¡±


    ¡°It couldn¡¯t have,¡± Griff said in a solemn tone. Celeste met his somber gaze for a moment, then clicked her tongue loudly and marched away. Griff patted himself, searching for something. ¡°This¡¯ Tau, by the way.¡± He gestured to Tau. ¡°Forgot my smokes, go get ¡®em, rook.¡±


    ¡°Sir, I¡ª,¡± Tau glanced apprehensively at Leon.


    ¡°Just go, I¡¯ll assure Leon here.¡± Tau nodded and ran off.


    ¡°Kid?¡± Leon asked.


    ¡°Yeah, rare these days, but he¡¯s as straight laced as they come. It¡¯s a pain in the ass, but I gotta break the poor kid or he¡¯s gonna be a pariah. Us pigs don¡¯t take kindly to spying on each other. Fortunately for me, I¡¯m too good for them to get rid of.¡±


    ¡°Looks.¡± Leon glanced up and down Griff with a smirk.


    ¡°Of course I didn¡¯t say anything. I knew you¡¯d give me shit. What can I say? I clearly watched too much Noir as a kid. Before I knew it, I looked like this.¡± The pair shared a soft chuckle. ¡°Got somewhere we can talk private-ish?¡± Leon nodded and turned. Griff followed as he placed a cigarette in his mouth, then stopped for a moment.


    ¡°Oh, right. Hey, pretty lady with the tats, mind telling the kid when he¡¯s back to just wait here? And if you don¡¯t mind, intimidate him some.¡±


    ¡°What?¡± Val asked. She saw Leon give a nod. ¡°Alright.¡± She shrugged, then told a few nearby to fetch some more bodies.


    ¡°Val,¡± Leon said.


    ¡°My bad. Appreciate it, Val. I¡¯ll owe ya,¡± Griff called with a nonchalant wave.


    ¡°Yeah, sure,¡± Val said in surprise.


    A young boy approached Val. ¡°That was a pig, right? What¡¯s with him?¡±


    ¡°Old friend of the Vyx, I¡¯m told,¡± Val said, puffing on a device. ¡°Def an odd cop.¡±


    Griff and Leon made their way across the courtyard until Yuna approached.


    ¡°Old ass goat,¡± Yuna said.


    ¡°Fucking brat?¡± Griff and Yuna grinned at one another before greeting with a brief embrace like he¡¯d done prior with Leon.


    ¡°Mom got you good, huh?¡± Yuna playfully slapped Griff¡¯s cheek repeatedly, to which he swatted her hand away. ¡°Barely saw it from the elevator.¡±


    ¡°Yeah, it fuckin¡¯ smarts, so maybe don¡¯t slap it? Still no respect for your elders. Anyway.¡± Griff glanced up and down Yuna. ¡°Bit muscley for my taste, but who thought you¡¯d grow up to be such a looker?¡±


    ¡°Pfft.¡± Yuna scoffed. ¡°Me? You should see Reina. Fuckin¡¯ adorable.¡±


    ¡°That so?¡±


    ¡°Hey, how ¡®bout a spar, like old times?¡±


    ¡°Hard pass. You kicked my ass when I was still fit. Still losin¡¯ to Leon?¡±


    ¡°Hell no. Surpassed the old man a long time ago.¡±


    ¡°Half,¡± Leon said.


    ¡°No way, I¡¯m closer to two-to-one wins now.¡± Yuna turned to Leon in protest. ¡°Don¡¯t give me that look. I¡¯m ready to go right now and show Griff.¡±


    ¡°Busy.¡±


    ¡°You¡ª.¡± A call appeared in Yuna¡¯s IRIS. ¡°Dante¡¯s calling. That means Reina¡¯s fucking awake still. Gotta go. But, later Pops.¡± Yuna gestured menacingly at Leon, then turned away, only to turn back again. ¡°Oh, yeah, why do you look like the guy from ¡®Once to kill¡¯, Griff? Pretty old, and lame.¡± She dashed away at another call notice.


    ¡°Quite a daughter you¡¯ve got there now,¡± Griff said. ¡°You¡¯ve mentioned her in our calls, of course, but feel like she¡¯s got even more fire than back then.¡±


    ¡°Lucky,¡± Leon said.


    ¡°Yes, I know. Christ. Do you realize eighty percent of the calls are always about them? The fuck¡¯s ¡®Once to kill¡¯, by the way?¡±


    ¡°Show.¡± Leon laughed. Griff chuckled as he shook his head.


    ¡°Damnit.¡±


    A short time later, Leon and Griff stood in a small, closet-like room that appeared abandoned.


    ¡°A closet?¡± Griff asked. ¡°You don¡¯t have somewhere less cramped?¡±


    ¡°Unused,¡± Leon said.


    ¡°You¡¯re right, privacy¡¯s really all that matters at the moment. I¡¯m sure it surprised you I suddenly wanted to drop by, and that I was back in Lyrsium in the first place. Long story short, they transferred me back. We can catch up another time. I¡¯ll cut to the chase.¡±


    ¡°Fine.¡±


    ¡°Appreciate the understanding.¡± Griff quickly explained about the murder investigation he¡¯d begun at Argonix headquarters. While he did, a clang of metal echoed, causing him to pause. He and Leon looked around but nothing further followed and he resumed.


    ¡°Aware.¡±


    ¡°Good. Wait. How? The fucking point we¡¯re tolerating each other¡¯s breath right now is I¡¯ve been keeping as tight a lid as possible on the whole thing.¡±


    ¡°Reina.¡±


    ¡°Well fuck. No kidding?¡±


    ¡°Before I knew it, my little girl became an information broker.¡± Leon grimaced as he shook his head. ¡°Failure.¡±


    ¡°I can tell this really bugs you old friend, but I don¡¯t have time to get sidetracked right now.¡±


    ¡°Continue.¡±


    ¡°So anyway. I¡¯ve got history already with the sick fuck behind this. I hit the ground running, callin¡¯ people I ain¡¯t talked to in years. Etcetera, etcetera, I¡¯m pretty fuckin¡¯ floored to find out there was already a prior killing, kept under wraps because of where it took place; some underground arena? Any chance you can get me in there asap?¡±


    A soft sneeze suddenly rang out. Griff glanced around in confusion while Leon ripped off a vent from the wall. He reached in and subsequently pulled out Reina-bird. Another sneeze emanated from the bird.


    ¡°Ack. Darnit, not used to sneezing,¡± Reina said. The bird¡¯s head then turned a little towards Leon. ¡°Didn¡¯t mute in time, oops.¡± Why didn¡¯t I mute in the first place? Maybe I am sleeping too little¡­


    ¡°Trouble,¡± Leon said.


    ¡°I know I¡¯m supposed to be sleeping, Papa, but when I heard Griff showed up after so long, I had an inkling I couldn¡¯t ignore. Please.¡± Leon sighed as he loosened his grip. Reina-bird popped out onto his fingers as a perch and looked at Griff.


    ¡°Griff,¡± Reina said.


    ¡°Huh? Uh, yeah?¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t know if they¡¯ve cleaned up the scene yet, but I have an accurate mapping of it in ALTR. So, I propose an exchange of information. I¡¯d been wanting to contact you for so long but, well¡­anyway, you¡¯re here.¡± Griff had a blank expression. ¡°Well?¡±


    ¡°Just give me a minute, christ. Trying to process this.¡± Griff paused. ¡°You are Reina? I don¡¯t remember that sweet girl being the type to spy or be pushy.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry, but there¡¯s a ton of stuff I¡¯d like to discuss with you. Especially since you said you have a past with the killer, there¡¯s so much more to¡ª.¡±


    ¡°Reina! You better have fallen asleep on the toilet in there,¡± Yuna¡¯s voice came from the bird. ¡°because if I find out¡ª!¡± Her voice cut out. A brief silence passed as Griff and Leon exchanged glances.


    ¡°Griff, I promise you won¡¯t be disappointed. Papa, please bring him to the basement, later. I¡¯ve gotta go,¡± Reina whispered. The bird then fell, with Leon catching it.


    ¡°That is not how I expected today to go,¡± Griff said as he lit a cigarette.


    ¡°Cramped,¡±


    ¡°Shit, my bad, such a habit.¡± They exited into a corridor. ¡°So. Reina. I know you¡¯ve told me how she helps keep Vyxora running, but I don¡¯t think it ever really registered until now.¡±


    ¡°Boss,¡± Leon lamented as he shook his head.


    ¡°How¡¯d that happen?¡±


    ¡°Wish I knew.¡±


    ¡°Heh.¡± Griff chuckled and took a drag. ¡°I can guess. She always was an inquisitive one. Meanwhile, you and Celeste were never interested in imposing ideals on others. That¡¯s what made myself and the others so loyal. Always felt like we had a choice in everything we did. I take it you treat your daughters the same?¡±


    ¡°Regret.¡± Leon¡¯s head hung.


    ¡°You don¡¯t, not really. Fatherhood¡¯s rough, huh?¡±


    Leon exhaled. ¡°Yes.¡±

 Chapter 20 - Compromise

    Late at night in Reina¡¯s basement room at Vyxora, Griff leaned in a chair against a wall. Reina-cat watched as he played with an unlit cigarette in his mouth. Leon stood in one corner of the room, observing in stoic silence. Dante sat in his usual spot, surfing the web. Yuna sat with a chair between her legs, dozing off on the backrest near Reina.


    ¡°So?¡± Reina asked.


    ¡°Gotta give me some more time¡± Griff patted his head. ¡°Takes longer to process so much these days. When¡¯d you become so damn impatient, girlie?¡±


    ¡°Sorry.¡±


    ¡°Still quick to apologize, huh? Was only foolin¡¯.¡± Griff landed the chair as he moved forward, resting his elbows on his knees and rubbing his chin. ¡°Really feeling my age, here. You¡¯ve probably saved me weeks, even months of investigative catchup. But I need some more time to properly sort out my thoughts on it all. That aside, you had me read you some detective novels when you were little, so I always thought you might have it in you. Yet, never could¡¯ve imagined a scenario where a little inquisitive Reina made me embarrassed for all my useless colleagues. You know, the reason I¡¯m back in Lyrsium is because my old captain begged me to take a crack at the ¡®Aegis Slayer¡¯ case. Just crazy.¡± He shook his head. ¡°Really could use a smoke.¡± He pulled out his lighter.


    ¡°Don¡¯t you fuckin¡¯ dare.¡± Yuna snapped awake, followed by a gesture to signal she had her eyes on Griff.


    Griff sighed as he put back the lighter. ¡°I see you still have no respect for your elders.¡± He stretched his neck back and forth with a crack. ¡°Spare the rod.¡± He glanced at Leon.


    ¡°I heard that, old goat. I can find a rod, if you want.¡± Yuna cracked her knuckles menacingly. ¡°Then we can¡ª.¡±


    ¡°Yuna, please stop trying to fight Uncle Griff,¡± Reina chastised.


    ¡°Well, tell him to stop wasting time. I wanna go to sleep.¡±


    Griff exhaled as if smoking. ¡°Alright. Enough lollygaggin¡¯. I¡¯ll say it straight. Even if I¡¯m grateful all this info¡¯s fallen into my lap, not exactly keen on sharing classified police intel.¡±


    ¡°Oh,¡± Reina lamented.


    ¡°Griff,¡± Leon said.


    ¡°Okay, that was a garbage lie, you got me. Truth is, I¡¯m afraid of running afoul of ol¡¯ Celeste more than anything. She hates my guts enough. Now, involving her precious Reina in a serial killer case? I¡¯d be asking to be hunted down, literally.¡±


    ¡°She¡¯s already involved, ya dumbass,¡± Dante said. ¡°Miss the part where she made me setup a friggin¡¯ murder scene in ALTR? Quit wasting time, got a damn raid soon, tiresome old goat.¡±


    A silence set in as the others looked at the back of Dante in awe. He turned, having noticed the silence. Yuna laughed. Leon gave a slight chuckle. Reina had turned to him.


    ¡°Dante?¡± Reina asked.


    ¡°Uhhh.¡± Dante turned to see the others.


    ¡°Who the fuck¡¯s this kid, again?¡± Griff barked.


    ¡°Did I maybe speak out loud, just now?¡± Dante whispered to Reina, who nodded.


    ¡°Sure did.¡± Yuna laughed. ¡°He thinks you look like a goat, too.¡±


    Dante turned and bowed his head apologetically to Griff. ¡°Sorry, Mr. uh, G¡ª¡­detective?¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t even know my name? Whats with this fucker?¡± Griff asked.


    ¡°Sorry, Griff,¡± Reina said. ¡°Dante gets agitated if he might miss a raid time.¡±


    ¡°A what?¡±


    ¡°Griff,¡± Leon shouted. He gestured with his gaze toward Reina. ¡°Continue.¡±


    ¡°Fine, I get it. It¡¯d be wrong of me to leave ya hangin¡¯, no matter how weird this is. Just remember, if I ever turn up dead, check my ex-wives first, but then your Mom.¡± Griff gestured to Reina.


    ¡°Like Mom¡¯d leave a trace.¡± Yuna grinned.


    Griff had a slight grin as he nodded. ¡°True. Anyway. We called the sadistic fuck the ¡®Sculptor¡¯, internally, at my old precinct. Which, of course, got leaked. There were five incidents, same MO. No point in going over the gory details, it¡¯s the same sick shit every time. Psychopathic fuck fancies himself an artist. Normally, you¡¯d think that would result in them wanting to be known, but the bastard never leaves a trace. That is, besides always having the ¡®display¡¯ be some kind of abstract motif or concept. It¡¯s happened in a few other cities that I know of, too. Problem is, there¡¯s been next to no threads to connect any incident to another. So much so that there¡¯s a theory of there being multiple copycats. Ever since Aegis day, murder fell off a cliff like you might think, especially crimes of passion. But, the premeditated ones tend to be worst in contrast and this bastard¡¯s king shitbird.¡±


    Griff paused for a breath. ¡°I¡¯m startin¡¯ to ramble. Sad thing is, I don¡¯t have a lot to share with you, except for one big nugget I¡¯ve kept to myself. You see, I recognized some similar damage to the brain and spinal cord in each case. Forensics and coroners must¡¯ve considered it just part of the overall mutilation or whatever. But, after consulting more than a few relevant people, I concluded the victims may be getting interrogated in ALTR. The whole gruesome display is, at least in part, a cover-up for this fact. I just never knew what could be connecting the victims, though. Until now. I¡¯d bet there¡¯s some hidden connection between the other series of cases, too. No way are the first two of these killings a coincidence. The sculptor kidnaps, interrogates, then hides the evidence while satisfying some sick desires.¡±


    ¡°What do you think, Dante?¡± Reina asked.


    ¡°Uhh, pretty messed up,¡± Dante said.


    ¡°About ALTR¡¯s involvement.¡±


    ¡°Oh, right, duh. Yeah, I¡¯ve heard of some scary stuff that¡¯s available on the black market. Never wanted to look into it. The rumors are plenty to scare my curiosity away.¡±


    ¡°Yep. That¡¯s pretty much my findings as well, kid,¡± Griff said. ¡°These black market modified ALTRs seem pretty frowned upon even in the underworld, so rumor is the most I could get from my sources. Chances of getting my hands on any of it are zero. Which means, can¡¯t prove jack shit and why I¡¯ve kept it to myself.¡±


    ¡°Thanks, Griff.¡± Reina-cat¡¯s chair turned back to her screens; they sprang to life. ¡°Please share your thoughts on everything else when you find the time.¡±


    Griff looked at Leon. ¡°Should I¡­ really not be worried about Celeste?¡± He rubbed where Celeste hit him earlier.


    ¡°Maybe,¡± Leon said.


    ¡°I need a cig.¡± Griff stood up.


    ¡°Night Griff, Pops.¡± Yuna yawned along with a drowsy wave as she crossed the room.


    ¡°Night,¡± they said.


    ¡°Huh? Where you going?¡± Dante followed Yuna as she moved to his room.


    ¡°Room too far¡­ sleepy.¡±


    Dante sighed. ¡°Guess I¡¯ll be in ALTR, anyway.¡± They entered his room. ¡°Before you pass out, I know your Mom can be pretty scary, but why¡¯d that old dude keep bringing her up?¡±


    ¡°Eh? Ahh¡­¡± Yuna grumbled. ¡°What was it again? Right. Mom set him up with one of her friends, and he cheated on her.¡± She fell onto the bed.


    ¡°Yikes.¡±


    ¡°Mmhmm.¡±


    Meanwhile, Griff and Leon tried to engage Reina, but went ignored. They left to grab a drink, and for Griff, a smoke. They soon were drinking beer at a table in the courtyard, under the moon.


    ¡°Hard to believe that¡¯s the Reina I knew.¡± Griff puffed at his cigarette. ¡°Though she always did kinda investigate things, now that I think back. I remember those weird old twins making the bird and cat off her idea on some whim. But, if I recall, she wasn¡¯t content with just being given them. She politely pestered them until they explained how they worked.¡±


    Unauthorized content usage: if you discover this narrative on Amazon, report the violation.


    ¡°Yup.¡± Leon took a large swig before placing the bottle next to several empty ones. ¡°They¡¯ve loved her ever since.¡±


    ¡°Slow down, big guy. I see your tongue¡¯s already loosening.¡±


    ¡°Hear me out, alright?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m listening.¡±


    ¡°Celeste and I gave in five or so years ago, giving Reina some work she could do. She just wanted to help. Looking back, it was bit by bit. She¡¯d ask for another responsibility. How could we say no?¡±


    ¡°Christ, I really just told the girl one of my biggest secrets? You¡¯re asking the wrong guy. How¡¯d she do that?¡±


    ¡°Yes.¡± Leon took a sorrowful swig. ¡°She¡¯s tricky. Persuasive. Trickily persuasive.¡±


    ¡°Yeah¡­ she kept asking me little questions during the conversation. Did that soften me up? I¡¯m startin¡¯ to picture how she took over.¡±


    ¡°Right?¡± Leon grunted. ¡°Our precious Reina¡­¡± He sulked.


    A week later, Viktor Weihelm stood in the center of an enclosed circular room. He wore a suit and his appearance looked even more impeccable than usual. A door closed. The walls changed into visual feeds of a near three-hundred-sixty degree scope. The feeds displayed a sports stadium filled to capacity. In front of him stood a podium, to which he stepped closer. The sound of cheering fans filtered in, albeit at a fraction of the volume one would hear in-person.


    ¡°Thank you, all!¡± Viktor announced. The crowd quieted. ¡°As always, I¡¯m humbled that the Sentinel fanbase doesn¡¯t despise my guts like so many other owners.¡± He paused as the crowd laughed. ¡°While I¡¯d prefer to be watching the game with all of you, Project Avalon demands my every waking moment. Well, almost. I¡¯m here today to announce construction has finished on the new facilities at Aegis University. They are dedicated to the two civil servants who Lyrsium lost this year.¡± Viktor continued with a brief explanation of the facilities purpose and relevance while pausing for applause intermittently. ¡°I¡¯m sure some of you are aware we butted heads at times. However, I always have held great respect for them. Let us proceed with a moment of silence.¡± Almost all sound ceased for a short time. ¡°Thank you, all. With that, I will take my leave. Please look forward to more announcements on Project Avalon in the coming weeks. Go Sentinels!¡±


    The crowd noise reached a fever pitch for a second before ceasing entirely as the feeds disappeared. Viktor loosened his collar a little as he exited the room. Several people applauded as he entered a room that encompassed the one he¡¯d left. He raised a hand dismissively, and they quieted. He walked toward another exit. Several young men and women followed in his steps, some conversing in calls while gesturing, interacting with their personal IRIS.


    ¡°Well?¡± Viktor asked.


    ¡°Sir,¡± a young man said. ¡°We¡¯ve pushed articles out to every major publication with the press release.¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re trending on every platform that matters, Mr. Weihelm,¡± a young woman said.


    The group expanded more and more on reactions to Viktor¡¯s announcement, all while following him. Visible irritation crept along Viktor¡¯s expression until they reached an elevator.


    ¡°Enough.¡± Viktor gestured for all of them to stop, followed by a dismissive wave.


    A short time later, Viktor exited the elevator into a room that took up an entire floor. An immense holographic cityscape covered much of the area. A dozen or so people flitted about in various discussions. Near to the elevator, stood Artemis.


    ¡°Well now, hello Artemis.¡± Viktor approached. ¡°Feels as though we rarely see one another recently.¡±


    ¡°Good afternoon, Mr. Weihelm,¡± Artemis said. ¡°Your address was excellently delivered.¡±


    ¡°Appreciated, but I¡¯ve already heard enough on that subject. After doing a hundred of those, the praise does little for me. Results are all that matter in the end. Anyway. What brings you here?¡±


    ¡°Of course. I wanted to verify if you¡¯re aware of a sensitive matter. It would best be discussed in private.¡±


    ¡°Hm. I know I can trust you to not waste my time with frivolous matters, very well.¡± Viktor snapped his fingers. ¡°Leave.¡±


    Everyone except Viktor and Artemis ceased what they were doing, then piled into the elevator before disappearing. Meanwhile, he gestured for her to follow him as they walked through the cityscape while he made occasional comments.


    ¡°I¡¯d like your perspective on a few things I¡¯m contemplating, afterwards.¡± Viktor gestured in various ways, the cityscape changing in response.


    ¡°Understood. I will get straight to the point.¡±


    ¡°Always appreciated. You¡¯ve no idea how much these damned engineers, planners and whatever else ramble on about meaningless details.¡± Viktor continued to manipulate the cityscape.


    ¡°I sympathize. Are you are aware of the incident at Argonix, Viktor?¡±


    ¡°Some rather unpleasant business. Even consumed as I am with Project Avalon, the gossip reached my ears, yes. What of it?¡±


    ¡°There are now three such incidents in total.¡±


    ¡°¡®Three¡¯?¡± Viktor remained preoccupied.


    ¡°The first and third occurred in the underworld¡¯s purview. With the third being discovered this morning.¡±


    ¡°You don¡¯t say?¡±


    ¡°Those two are not in the mainstream, for obvious reasons.¡±


    ¡°Makes sense.¡±


    ¡°These three locations hold clear significance, however. I have reason to believe Siegfried is behind these.¡±


    ¡°Siegfried? What makes you say that?¡± Viktor turned to Artemis.


    Artemis quickly explained the relevance of the locations. She then repeated the message Siegfried had left with them. After that, she projected a grotesque image from her wrist. Viktor glanced at it for only a moment before returning to the cityscape. The image displayed two mutilated standing bodies, with eight arms between them, re-attached and each grasping one another in pairs. Artemis started to explain the sight, but Viktor interrupted.


    ¡°Ah. I see. I was warned of Siegfried having some¡­ unorthodox methods. Quite distasteful, I must admit.¡± Viktor manipulated the cityscape. ¡°My contact, however, assured me that ¡®Siegfried the Undying¡¯ has never failed them. A rather crass name, but it supposedly holds multiple meanings. One being that the man pursues his quarry as if he were undead. They found it quite amusing, yet can¡¯t say I¡¯ve ever cared for zombie features myself. Nonetheless, all that matters is results.¡±


    ¡°Of course, Viktor,¡± Artemis said.


    ¡°If you have issues with his methods, you have my permission to query him.¡±


    ¡°I may at least verify it is him.¡±


    ¡°Do as you will. Now, what do you think about the planned architecture style here?¡± Viktor manipulated the cityscape as he rattled off questions to Artemis.


    Later that night, Artemis sat alone in her office. She gazed out the window at the skyline. She let out a deep breath, then gestured in the air, tapping keys in her IRIS. A mere second after her fingers stopped, an eerie voice resounded in her ears. At the same time, a window appeared in her sight; it displayed the unsettling visage of Siegfried and startled her a little. She hadn¡¯t expected the video call nor the expedient answer.


    ¡°Good evening, Ms. Vigard,¡± Siegfried said. ¡°What a pleasant surprise. How may I be of assistance?¡±


    Siegfried¡¯s surreal face had a strange, welcoming expression, like that of a butler awaiting their master¡¯s orders. A brief silence passed as Artemis observed simulated blinks of his digital eyes; their intervals were abnormal. His digital mouth began to open.


    ¡°Good evening, Siegfried,¡± Artemis said. ¡°Do you always answer calls with video?¡±


    ¡°Only when they deserve my full attention, Ms. Vigard. You needn¡¯t feel any obligation to reciprocate.¡±


    ¡°Are you the ¡®Sculptor¡¯?¡±


    Siegfried¡¯s expression remained unchanged. ¡°Why yes, I am.¡± He answered without hesitation. Artemis flinched at the unnerving sight. A brief silence passed. ¡°Typically, I avoid outright informing my employer unless asked. There have also been many who never asked, despite likely being aware. Therefore, may I inquire as to why you have so bluntly queried?¡±


    ¡°I would know your reasons for such public displays.¡±


    ¡°Ah.¡± Siegfried¡¯s expression appeared to soften, as if gleeful. ¡°I see why Mr. Weihelm values you so highly. No dancing around a topic. Your candor is a refreshing tonic in this so very deceptive world.¡± Siegfried paused as his eyes shifted. A faint shiver cascaded down Artemis¡¯ spine as it felt like, for a moment, he looked her directly in the eyes. ¡°Ahem. Please forgive me; I¡¯m sure you don¡¯t need unsolicited praise from one such as I. I will gladly answer. There are multiple purposes to my methods. I¡¯m aware, of course, they may appear rather unsavory. They¡¯ve proven effective time and time again, however, I assure you. Please bear with me.¡±


    ¡°The primary function of these displays is to disguise my interrogations. The methods I employ often cause damage to the brain, unfortunately. As you surely surmised from my notice before beginning this work, I start at the bottom. You may visualize a pyramid, to effect. By immersing myself in the thoughts, feelings and knowledge of one who may in fact know little, I¡¯m able to compile a weapon, you could say. This weapon being forged of inaccuracies, inconsistencies, contradictions. To which I may then wield against those in the next level of the pyramid - so on and so forth. The smallest inconsistency can prove fatal. A hole in the wall. The other major component of these methods is the shock and awe factor. Potential targets on the pyramid often eventually realize they may be next, especially as news coverage increases. This has many times resulted in them committing grave mistakes out of fear or impatience, leading me to them all the quicker.¡±


    ¡°I see,¡± Artemis said.


    ¡°Out of respect for your own difficulties experienced regarding this case, as well as a reciprocation of your honesty, I must admit this to be a rather vexing case. Any leads have been far and few between.¡± A brief silence passed. ¡°Do you have any qualms with my approach, Ms. Vigard?¡±


    ¡°All that matters, in the end, is the results. Mr. Weihelm has faith in you to excise this issue, allowing his focus to remain on Project Avalon. I, too, would see it resolved prior to the launch of a new product line.¡±


    ¡°I understand, Ms. Vigard, and I apologize for wasting your time with such trivialities. Please know that I shall redouble my efforts, nay, re-triple. I¡¯m humbled by your comprehension.¡± Siegfried bowed.


    ¡°See that you do.¡± Artemis tapped her wrist; the call ended. Her tense body relaxed a little. She stood and walked to the window. Such an unpleasant sensation speaking to that monster. Not only does he speak ad nauseum, he shamelessly obscured his reasons.


    ¡°Hey!¡± Xandr said in a faint voice, further words indecipherable.


    Perhaps his job is merely an excuse?


    ¡°Hey!¡± Xandr¡¯s voice grew louder.


    He gave no acknowledgment of the obscene brutality on display. I¡¯d expected him to even go on a tangent of the meanings behind them. Yet, he spoke as if they were of no consequence, or discarding that they held any significance.


    ¡°Hey!¡±


    Artemis sighed. ¡°Yes, I heard you the first time.¡±


    ¡°You had a chance there! Why didn¡¯t you get that monster to stop? Surely you¡¯re not okay with this, Artemis?¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s why I¡¯ve been ignoring you. They are mostly indirect, but we¡¯ve already stepped over countless people to reach this point. And we¡¯ll step over many more to reach our goal.¡±


    ¡°But!¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t bother. I will not jeopardize us. The ends are all that matter.¡±


    ¡°You sound like Viktor.¡±


    ¡°I know¡­¡±

 Chapter 21 - Death at First Sight

    Several days later, Aelfric once again kneeled on the moon within ALTR before Artemis. He explained the arrival of the detective, Griff. He conveyed some other information, then retold of the conversation between Reina and Griff.


    ¡°If the detective¡¯s theory is true, this adds great creditably to Siegfried being the killer,¡± Aelfric said.


    ¡°He is,¡± Artemis said.


    Aelfric looked up in surprise. ¡°My Lady?¡±


    ¡°I asked him directly. He confirmed it without hesitation.¡±


    ¡°That is. What happened after? What do you plan to do?¡±


    ¡°Nothing.¡±


    ¡°But¡ª!¡± Aelfric stopped himself. No, I mustn¡¯t question Lady Artemis¡¯ judgment. It¡¯s not my place. He felt Artemis¡¯ gaze. ¡°Nevermind.¡±


    ¡°Were you not concerned with the additional risk your actions carried? This Griff sounds like he is no ordinary detective. What of Celeste¡¯s watchful eye?¡±


    ¡°Celeste appeared rather distracted. It¡¯s true Reina has implemented further external security, to my knowledge. However, internal remains little to none. To this end, if I¡¯m correct in my understanding, they trust their residents. Furthermore, I¡¯m not aware of any outsiders ever visiting Reina¡¯s room prior. I calculated the risk to be well worth what information I may obtain.¡±


    ¡°I see. Well done. My apologies for even questioning your situational awareness.¡±


    ¡°Please, think nothing of it, my Lady. Your concern is sincerely appreciated.¡±


    ¡°It seems your ¡®intuition¡¯ of remaining at Vyxora has already born fruit. After being far upstaged by a young girl they¡¯re not even aware of, I subconsciously had written off law enforcement entirely as even a minor obstacle. Siegfried spoke with the utmost confidence of his methods, which matches the detective¡¯s story. We now know of at least one capable mind on the force to which Reina holds in high regard. A peculiar development.¡± A brief silence passed. ¡°Patience remains our course. Knowing you, Belle is already looking into the detective?¡±


    ¡°Yes.¡±


    ¡°Anything else?¡±


    ¡°Yes. The Vyxora are once again tasked with security tonight at another duel. It sounds like with more to come. According to Belle, the council is keeping a tight lid on the killings.¡±


    ¡°Hm. Even with two Immortals and two Legionaries as part of ¡®Compromise¡¯? They must be doing everything in their power to avoid the discord created from the prior stoppage.¡±


    ¡°That is Belle and I¡¯s conclusion as well. Ms. Reina¡¯s, too.¡±


    ¡°Reina?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ve documented several discussions she has had with Dante. I¡¯m unsure if they are worthy of your time, however.¡±


    ¡°Continue.¡±


    ¡°Understood.¡± Aelfric went over various notes he had made, albeit much of them were related to Dante and Reina¡¯s discussions on ALTR. ¡°I only caught a little of it, but it sounds as though The Legion is attempting to challenge Vyxora again.¡±


    ¡°Much of that was unnecessary.¡± Artemis sighed.


    ¡°Apologies, my Lady.¡± Aelfric gave an apologetic head bow.


    ¡°You shall remain as you have. Dismissed.¡±


    ¡°Wait. I was unsure if I should share this, as I worried about its significance. However, I feel compelled to tell you of something Reina said.¡± Aelfric looked to Artemis as if asking for permission, to which she gave a subtle nod. He explained he¡¯d overheard a conversation between Dante and Reina.


    On another typical night in Reina¡¯s basement room, Dante and Reina-cat faced their flashing screens. After a time, Dante slid back in his chair, rubbing his eyes. He glanced at the nauseating flashes of Reina¡¯s speed-reading.


    ¡°Hey, I¡¯ve been meaning to ask you something. Usually don¡¯t like being nosy IRL but it¡¯s bugging me,¡± Dante said.


    ¡°What is it?¡± Reina asked while continuing unabated.


    ¡°You were originally after ¡®Aegis Slayer¡¯ for Yuna, right? Made no sense to me early on, but especially after she went toe-to-toe with ¡®em, I got it. Part of its probably because you¡¯re obsessed with each other. But the other part is you wanted to kind of rein her in, yeah? Otherwise, she might¡¯ve been literally prowling the streets for them.¡±


    ¡°I¡­yes.¡±


    ¡°Right, so. It randomly occurred to me. I can¡¯t remember the last time Yuna even brought up the ¡®Clayshi¡¯ herself. Basically since your, uh, body fixing thing. She might¡¯ve even forgotten? Or at least had until the new security gigs you¡¯re assigned. Anyway, I¡¯m rambling, skipping some. Point I¡¯m trying to get at is, why do you still seem to care so much? And you¡¯re obsessed with the ¡®Sculptor¡¯ weirdo too, now.¡± Reina¡¯s screens had stopped. A brief silence set in. ¡°Hmm. Feel like I need a stronger word than weirdo.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ve asked myself this a lot, to be honest.¡± Reina turned to Dante. ¡°It was all about Yuna at first. But somewhere along the way, I just became obsessed, like you said. The mystery. There¡¯s something I have a hard time putting into words. Trust me, I¡¯ve been trying to. You know my theory about them wanting chaos. I still think that¡¯s true. But there¡¯s something beyond that. I¡¯ve thought about it, and thought about it some more; so much my brain feels like its melting sometimes. Whatever their end goal is, I don¡¯t think it¡¯s related to power or greed.¡±


    ¡°Huh, really? Those tend to be the reasons for most human behavior. What makes you think that? Gotta admit I¡¯m curious now.¡±


    ¡°I¡­¡± Reina paused in hesitation. ¡°don¡¯t have any evidence. I mean, I do have reason to believe it¡¯s not those things. After the almost periodical assassinations, then the abrupt last two, they went dark. Meanwhile, the ¡®Sculptor¡¯ must be pursuing them, after what Uncle Griff told us. I don¡¯t really like to think about what¡¯s going through that monster¡¯s mind, though. But my feeling is¡­ there¡¯s some profound reason behind it all. Something I can¡¯t even imagine, right now, with my current knowledge.¡± She apprehensively observed Dante, who had a somewhat blank expression. ¡°Sorry, my thoughts are a mess, I rambled.¡±


    ¡°Ehm, I was the one who asked.¡± Dante shrugged. ¡°I think I followed. Kinda. Maybe you¡¯ve always had a thing for mysteries and just weren¡¯t scratching that itch?¡± Reina¡¯s ears perked up inquisitively. ¡°You know, though, perhaps you could scratch that itch via¡ª.¡±


    ¡°ALTR?¡±


    Dante chuckled. ¡°Yeah, was I that obvious?¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re incorrigible.¡± Reina giggled.


    Back upon the moon within ALTR, Artemis stood in silence.


    ¡°That Reina is something,¡± Artemis thought.


    ¡°Wish I could talk with her,¡± Xandr said.


    ¡°I¡¯m sure you would.¡±


    ¡°That was my impression of you, once upon a time.¡±


    Artemis made a slight groan, then remembered Aelfric still kneeled in front of her. ¡°Thank you, Aelfric, dismissed.¡±


    You could be reading stolen content. Head to Royal Road for the genuine story.


    ¡°Always, Lady Artemis.¡± Aelfric stood, bowed, then disappeared. Artemis remained in silence.


    A few days later, in Reina¡¯s basement room, Griff sat across from Reina-cat. He fiddled with a cigarette between his fingers.


    ¡°So, where¡¯re the others? Yuna? Leon? That one kid?¡± Griff asked.


    ¡°Dante. He¡¯s in ALTR. Yuna and Papa are training,¡± Reina said.


    ¡°Training? This isn¡¯t more important?¡±


    ¡°They aren¡¯t really that invested. And Yuna¡¯s overflowing with excess energy for an upcoming duel.¡±


    ¡°Huh, no kidding? Thought ol¡¯ Leon kinda had immunity from those? Though, you did say Yuna was about to duel not long ago, didn¡¯t you?¡±


    ¡°Yes.¡± Reina quickly explained the first duel against the Praetor and how The Legion had challenged them again, to which Yuna happily accepted. ¡°I¡¯m actually a little worried for Papa. She seemed a little less herself lately, but now she¡¯s bouncing off the walls.


    ¡°Heh, I see. Don¡¯t worry, your old man has a hidden sense of pride. He¡¯s kept himself in close-ish condition to his heyday, unlike me.¡± Griff patted his slight belly. ¡°What¡¯s with that Dante guy, then? Wondered if he might be your boyfriend or somethin¡¯ at first. On second thought, someone mighty impressive will have to show up to get past your family.¡±


    Reina laughed. ¡°No way, no. It¡¯s, uhm, kinda hard to explain.¡±


    ¡°Yikes, good thing he ain¡¯t here. If I heard a girl laugh like that at the prospect of bein¡¯ lovers, my heart¡¯d drop right out my chest.¡±


    ¡°What? Oh. No, don¡¯t misunderstand. I did laugh at the idea, but that¡¯s because Dante is only interested in ALTR. Trust me, I guarantee he would¡¯ve laughed too at the prospect. And I¡¯ve no interest in such pursuits at this time, either.¡±


    ¡°I see you¡¯re still unpredictable.¡± Griff chuckled. ¡°Never could guess what topics you¡¯d be timid about. Definitely thought love would be one.¡±


    ¡°Really?¡± Reina-cat¡¯s head turned angled slightly, which Griff noticed.


    ¡°Speakin¡¯ of. Why am I still talking to a cat instead of a pretty girl?¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s, uhm, complicated. Don¡¯t worry about it.¡±


    ¡°C¡¯mon now, I promised I wouldn¡¯t inquire about how, but Yuna dang near talked my ear off about ya. I was looking forward to this, despite the unsavory reason for our meetin¡¯.¡±


    ¡°Yuna¡¯s exaggerating. If you really want to see me, you can brave Mama-infested waters.¡±


    ¡°Damnit.¡± Griff shook his head. Is it worth getting decked again to see her?


    ¡°That¡¯s enough small talk. Can we get to it? Time isn¡¯t plentiful.¡±


    ¡°Alright, settle down. Yeah, ¡®spose.¡± Griff reached down to his feet and patted a bag. ¡°I see those annoying old twins haven¡¯t changed; made me wait until their stupid crap was over. Explain to me the point of these again?¡±


    ¡°They¡¯re encrypted omni-directional cameras. They¡¯ll only record and can¡¯t be viewed live. Maybe it¡¯s overkill, but after you told me of Argonix and the others, this was my idea. Especially Argonix, their security must¡¯ve been breached.¡±


    ¡°Nah, you¡¯ve the right of it. As expected, the brass only gave me a few others since I couldn¡¯t tell them any more than saying it¡¯s just a hunch. And the relevant precinct told me to fuck off.¡±


    ¡°Why?¡±


    ¡°Eh, some bad blood.¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t wanna know, do I?¡±


    ¡°You do not.¡±


    Reina sighed. ¡°Was it true what Mama said told me long ago? You left Lyrsium because you¡¯d burnt so many bridges?¡±


    ¡°You could say that.¡± Griff chuckled. ¡°Anyway. I still warned them they should take any absences seriously. And I¡¯ve got Tau doing a head count for the late councilman¡¯s office personnel.¡±


    ¡°I could still¡ª.¡±


    ¡°Nope. Not happening. And don¡¯t you dare think about sending your bird snooping, either. I only agreed to accept your help if you swore to be as removed from the board as far as possible. Don¡¯t get me wrong, I¡¯m man enough to admit I wouldn¡¯t even be doing this had it not been for you. Even if this doesn¡¯t end in some crazy capture sequence, it¡¯s bar none the closest I¡¯ve ever had even a chance of sniffing the bastard. Plus, your backup idea,¡± Griff gave the bag a light kick. ¡°has me riding high this won¡¯t end in complete failure. Of course, anything recorded might not be admissible, but I can worry about that later.¡±


    ¡°Only I can view the footage,¡± Reina said.


    Griff laughed. ¡°I can hear you pouting. Good to know you still have a bit of immaturity.¡± He stood and tussled Reina-cat¡¯s head. ¡°I¡¯ve no intention of cutting you out of the loop, even without that threat just now. Trust me. I don¡¯t need all the Vyx women hating my guts. I¡¯ll set these up just like you want.¡± He picked up the bag and turned to leave.


    ¡°Be careful, Uncle Griff.¡±


    ¡°Always am.¡± Griff left while lighting a cigarette.


    A few nights later, Griff sat alongside Reina-cat in her basement room at Vyxora. Her screen showed camera footage of a municipal building from several angles.


    ¡°Hope these caught something else,¡± Griff lamented. ¡°I¡¯m sure they recorded the scout who offed themselves, but that amounted to nothing. I¡¯m guessin¡¯ you already at least know they still followed through?¡±


    ¡°Yes, but only that it happened,¡± Reina said.


    ¡°Yeah.¡± Griff shook his head. ¡°I didn¡¯t risk telling them ¡®I told you¡¯, not that it¡¯d make me feel any better anyway. The brass will keep this one under wraps as long as they possibly can. Prepare yourself for the irony. It was found in the morning, the next day. Being an old precinct, there¡¯s an abandoned set of old school jail cells beneath it. Lyrsium¡¯s also lousy with old tunnels, so that¡¯s my guess how they got there. Not sure I want to know how they transported the ¡®sculpture¡¯, though. Cheap and lazy as the government usually is, part of the area had been re-purposed for HVAC. Long story short, a poor janitor investigating a smell stumbles upon a set of double doors they¡¯d never seen before. ¡®Behind closed doors¡¯ was hastily painted onto them. Before you ask, yes, they really installed a set of doors for their sculpture. Ah! Wait, there.¡± Griff pointed to the recording.


    It was night on the recording. Griff pointed out a shadowed figure peering out from a corner of the building. They wore dark, loose-fitting garments, obscuring themselves from head to toe. They glanced around over and over until finally moving alongside the building.


    ¡°I can see why you said ¡®scout¡¯,¡± Reina said.


    ¡°Yeah. Obviously, we didn¡¯t realize it at the time. You should see us encircling soon. Buncha idiots.¡±


    Soon, the various camera angles showed several individuals, including Griff and Tau, closing toward the cloaked figure. They had continued to scout the area.


    ¡°I¡¯m guessing security cameras show¡ª?¡±


    ¡°Nothing. Yup. Not even us. The classic looping trick. Of course, how they¡¯re able to do that is a whole other discussion.¡±


    ¡°For such an extended period too¡­¡± Reina said. Even if they¡¯re extremely skilled, isn¡¯t this too much? Could they have some kind of backdoor?


    ¡°Here it comes.¡± Griff sighed. Tau burst out from his location at a full sprint toward the figure. The figure turned, then a mere second later, fell to the ground. ¡°Tau¡¯s still blaming himself, as if he could¡¯ve done something different. I been wondering too, of course. But this confirms it really happened as quick as I thought it did. Almost the second they notice Tau, they killed themselves. Multiple teeth capsules. Not only did the poison ravage the woman¡¯s body, it fried all her tech. She was more metal than flesh, to boot.¡±


    ¡°Really?¡±


    ¡°Yeah. Couldn¡¯t even tell it was a woman until the autopsy, to give you an idea. And yep, she resulted in a complete dead end. Technically, we don¡¯t even have any proof she¡¯s relevant to our killer. We thought she mighta been said killer until another sculpture appeared.¡±


    ¡°But based on her actions, and assuming she is, she was scouting the location. Could the Sculptor actually be multiple people? Or maybe she was just working for them? Such heavy body modification is still rare, too. Even though A-day slowed cybernetics adoption, they¡¯re gaining popularity. But to that extent? Can you trace any of the parts? To think they¡¯d be so cautious as to scout even with the compromised security¡­?¡± Reina rambled off several more questions.


    ¡°Hold on. Calm down, would ya? Thought you¡¯d be a bit more thrown off by it. I wondered if I should even have you go through them,¡± Griff said in an apprehensive tone. Reina-cat glared up at him, surprising him.


    ¡°I¡¯m not a child, Griff,¡± Reina chastised.


    ¡°But you¡¯re a cat.¡± A tense silence set in as Reina-cat gave no reaction. ¡°Alright. Pretty lame joke. And poorly timed.¡± Griff made an apologetic gesture. He then motioned as if to light a cigarette, including putting one between his lips, only to not actually do it. ¡°Guess I¡¯m still waffling on including you. Hearing that voice saying things that come out of my mouth, it¡¯s damn weird. Doesn¡¯t help that you are a cat.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry, too, for lashing out.¡± Reina-cat returned to scanning the footage.


    ¡°That was ¡®lashing out¡¯ for you?¡± Griff chuckled. ¡°Glad you got Leon¡¯s temperament. Were it Celeste or Yuna¡¯s, might¡¯ve gotten my face scratched off for such a lame joke.¡±


    ¡°It was lame,¡± Reina teased. ¡°Anyway. I¡¯ve seen much worst, Griff. Not to devalue life, but it¡¯s relatively nothing.¡±


    ¡°Def got the chops to be a detective, not that I¡¯d recommend ever becoming one. Just kinda hard to reconcile the voice that used to say ¡®Uncle Griffy¡¯, you know?¡±


    ¡°Continue where you left off with the Sculpture found. ¡®Behind closed doors¡¯, right? Maybe they were planning to place it in a conference room?¡±


    Ignored. I get the message, Griff thought. ¡°Yep, you¡¯ve got the same guess as me. And behind those doors, the twisted display was labeled ¡®Power Corrupts¡¯. Sadly, we were too late in the accounting for everyone. Personal aides to the councilman and chief, respectively, were the sculpture. I¡¯ma skip the gory details for now.¡±


    ¡°Hmm.¡± A short time passed. Then, several dozen of the camera recordings appeared in a wall-covering layout. At the center, the recording paused at the scout, right before they turned.


    ¡°Whatcha doin¡¯?¡± Griff asked.


    Reina gave no response. The scout recording then played in ultra slow-motion, almost to the point of frame-by-frame. The recordings paused at mid-fall of the scout. Then, a frozen recording of an inert delivery van overtook all others. Frame-by-frame, its lights came on.


    ¡°Griff, look. This van.¡±


    ¡°Huh? What about it? See those everywhere. You spot something I missed entirely?¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s only a guess. If we assume there are multiple people behind the Sculptor, and considering their extreme caution, I get this. Think about it. Even with the security all compromised, there was still an extremely suspicious person skulking about, who then committed suicide; seemingly just because they were seen? They didn¡¯t try to run or anything. And almost as they¡¯re about to hit the ground, a delivery van comes to life? That can¡¯t be coincidence if we assume all that, right?¡±


    ¡°Well, goddamn. You might really have something.¡±

 Chapter 22 - Fury Redux

    Several days later, in Reina¡¯s basement room at Vyxora, the wall displayed several feeds of spectators filling an underground arena. Dante stood, chugging a drink from a can. He slammed the can onto the table, causing Reina-cat to glance over. The can read ¡®Monguar¡¯ with a gaudy label.


    ¡°Let¡¯s fucking do this!¡± Dante sat and typed away at his keyboard in abnormal fervor.


    Meanwhile, at the underground arena, Yuna stretched in a locker room. She wore her Aegis suit along with her dual transarms. As she exited the room into a corridor, she heard Reina¡¯s voice.


    ¡°Yuna, do you know what¡¯s with Dante? He¡¯s weirding me out,¡± Reina asked. ¡°There¡¯s a bunch of ¡®Monguar¡¯ cans? The heck is that?¡±


    ¡°Energy drinks. Why? What¡¯s he doin?¡± Yuna asked. Reina explained his occasional shouting and strange attitude. Yuna laughed. ¡°Kinda want to see that. Record some, will ya?¡±


    ¡°I can¡¯t even recall him raising his voice before? Why¡¯s he guzzling energy drinks all of a sudden?¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry about it, I made a deal with the bum.¡±


    ¡°Deal? Huh?¡±


    ¡°I think he got them from the Nezins. Heh. Sounds like he¡¯s really takin¡¯ it seriously.¡±


    ¡°Uhm?¡±


    ¡°Since they still wanted you on security, and I¡¯m obviously going to be busy, told him to pick up my slack. Promised if he could ensure no problems, I¡¯d get his ALTR back.¡±


    ¡°Ahhh. Now it all makes sense.¡± Reina giggled. ¡°Should¡¯ve known it¡¯d be tied to ALTR.¡±


    ¡°¡¯Bout to cut out. I trust you¡¯ve got it all handled. See you soon.¡±


    ¡°Good¡ª.¡±


    Reina cut out as Yuna entered the arena. With an agile bounce to her step, she spun her transarms while making her way to the center. Meanwhile, back in Reina¡¯s room, Dante rambled while switching between feeds of the arena.


    ¡°I think you need to chill out on those drinks. I can barely understand you,¡± Reina said.


    ¡°Ah, damn, really? Shit. Didn¡¯t realize. Def not used to,¡± Dante said in rapid succession. ¡°Probably should. Hey! Yuna¡¯s out. She¡¯ll win, right? Yeah. She will. Nero¡¯s got no chance.¡± He laughed somewhat maniacally. ¡°Things¡¯re lookin¡¯ good, boss. Nothin¡¯ suspicious yet. You checked in with Leon?¡± He reached for a can.


    ¡°Hey! No more, jeez. You¡¯re freaking me out.¡±


    Dante withdrew his hand. ¡°Right. Yeah, you¡¯re right. My bad.¡± He placed his hand on his chest. ¡°Was my heartbeat always this fast?¡±


    Reina paused. ¡°I better ask Sophia what¡¯s in those¡­¡±


    A short time passed. The arena had filled, while Yuna still stood at the center. Her jubilant energy had been replaced with palpable impatience. The announcer called for Nero several times. Nothing happened from the opposite end of the arena. Dante and Reina exchanged glances as they cycled through the camera feeds.


    ¡°Answer that, please!¡± Reina said.


    ¡°Hello, this is security speaking,¡± Dante said.


    ¡°Dante. Nero is not answering my calls, nor are his attendants. Do you have sight of him anywhere?¡± a woman said, her tone cold and stern.


    Dante flinched. ¡°Mah-Mother?¡± Reina glanced at Dante.


    ¡°Yes. Now, do as you¡¯re told. Answer my question, post-haste.¡±


    ¡°Uhhh.¡±


    ¡°Hm.¡±


    Dante snapped from his brief stupor, then conveyed what his Mother said to Reina. She switched to a feed of a similar corridor Yuna had walked through. Two Legionnaires stood outside a door at attention. Reina checked several more feeds.


    ¡°I really don¡¯t see two grunts ignoring a call from my Mother,¡± Dante said. ¡°Is it just me, or do they look off?¡± Reina refocused her attention in haste, expanding the window.


    ¡°You¡¯re right.¡± Reina paused. ¡°Papa! Throw me at the arena. It¡¯s an emergency.¡±


    At the arena, Reina-sparrow came hurtling from the shadowed crowd of spectators. As she neared the ground closest to the tunnel opposite Yuna, she transformed into a hawk and hovered. She then darted inward. Yuna watched it unfold before breaking into a full sprint after Reina.


    ¡°You almost pancaked me! But thanks,¡± Reina said to Leon.


    ¡°Follow?¡± Leon asked.


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry, I¡¯m positive Yuna¡¯s already behind me. Continue patrolling, please.¡±


    Reina soon saw the two Legionnaires lying on the floor in puddles of blood. Thrashing sounds emanated from the open door. She stopped before the opening, glancing over the two bodies. Their throats had been slit. Yuna caught up. At the sight of the blood, she brandished her transarm axes. Further sounds echoed from the room.


    ¡°Gotta be fuckin¡¯ kidding me.¡± Yuna exchanged a glance with Reina-hawk as she turned into the door, side-stepping the blood.


    Time slowed for Yuna while she absorbed the scene. Destroyed furniture and various objects littered the room. It looked like a tornado had swept through. She spotted Nero in a hunched position at one corner of the room. Three cloaked individuals encroached upon him. He had an Aegis suit adorned as Vito once did, excluding a helmet. A large, broken cylindrical device protruded from his neck. He huffed in exhaustion while one eye twitched and the other struggled to remain open, as if he would fall unconscious any second. He swiped at the approaching three while making indecipherable sounds. As Reina turned into the room, Yuna hurled an axe. She quickly pursued its flight as it penetrated the back of the center three. Before they hit the ground, Yuna retrieved the axe, then swung both axes at the leftmost. They turned and parried the axes with a transarm sword by a narrow margin. As Yuna reeled back, the rightmost lunged at her side with a transarm dagger.


    What the¡­wait, Reina thought. They look just like that scout?


    Yuna dodged the dagger, to which she followed by grabbing the assailant¡¯s arm and flinging them into the other. The pair crashed into the wall. Yuna took a moment to regain footing, then moved to swing at them. As she swung, an ear-piercing screech emanated from Reina.


    ¡°Don¡¯t kill them, Yuna! Capture! Capture!¡±


    Yuna stopped. The pair, who had fallen to the ground entangled, looked to their third. A loud unintelligible gargle sprang forth from the limp body, startling Yuna. She glanced at it, then back to the pair who appeared to exchanges gazes for a moment.


    ¡°Libertas Carnis!¡± they yelled. As Yuna turned toward them, their bodies fell limp against one another. A few seconds passed.


    ¡°The fuck?¡± Yuna cautiously approached them.


    Reina flew over as Yuna kicked one body off the other. Meanwhile, Nero had craned his head toward them. He made another indecipherable grumble before collapsing to the ground and drawing Yuna¡¯s attention. He lay unconscious. She glanced in confusion back to the others, who remained unmoving, then to the one in front of Nero, then to Reina, who now hovered near her.


    ¡°What¡­?¡± Yuna asked.


    Reina transformed back into a sparrow. ¡°I was right. They¡¯re dressed just like that scout.¡±


    ¡°Reina?¡± Yuna sheathed her transarms.


    Unauthorized usage: this narrative is on Amazon without the author''s consent. Report any sightings.


    ¡°What could this mean? What¡¯re they doing here? Did I hear them shout something?¡± Reina muttered, too quiet for Yuna to decipher.


    Yuna glanced over the three and Nero again, then around the room. ¡°Hellooo? Reina? Mind cluing me in here? Pretty fuckin¡¯ lost.¡± She bent toward the closest of the three.


    ¡°Wait! Don¡¯t touch! They might be dangerous!¡±


    ¡°Uh, what?¡± Yuna withdrew. ¡°They seem pretty dead?¡±


    ¡°They are, I think. Suicide. But, sorry, uhh, where do I even start?¡± Idiot, why didn¡¯t you ask Griff about the poison they used? What if it¡¯s not self-contained? ¡°Keep away from them for right now, and keep your helmet on, please.¡±


    ¡°Alright¡­wasn¡¯t planning to. Doubt I wanna smell this place, anyway.¡±


    Dante¡¯s voice piped in. ¡°Hey, so, uh, Reina, any update? My Mother is not the patient type.¡±


    ¡°Not right now, Dante!¡± Reina shouted.


    ¡°Shit, my bad.¡±


    ¡°Sorry. Just. Not right now.¡±


    ¡°Oh right, comms back. Mother? Say what?¡± Yuna asked.


    ¡°Safe?¡± Leon asked.


    ¡°Yeah, we¡¯re fine, Pops. I¡¯d tell you what¡¯s going on, but I¡¯m totally lost. Reina seems to maybe know?¡±


    ¡°Hold on, everyone, please, I¡¯ll try to explain soon. I have to make a call.¡± Come on, Griff, pick up.


    Meanwhile, in an industrial district of Lyrsium, on a humid night, Griff stood outside a warehouse among countless similar. Some distance away, Tau stood in front of the warehouse¡¯s vehicle entrance, watching the road opposite Griff¡¯s direction. Griff lit a cigarette and took a drag, then pressed at his ear. A log of missed calls from Reina appeared in his IRIS. .


    That¡¯s a lot. It¡¯s the encrypted line, too. What could be? Griff thought, then a new window appeared, interrupting him. It showed a call from Reina. His index finger tapped the air.


    ¡°Yeah, sorry, just saw all your missed¡ª,¡± Griff said.


    ¡°Griff! Finally!¡± Reina shouted. Griff winced at the unexpected volume. ¡°Please, I can¡¯t talk. I just need to know if that scout that committed suicide was hazardous at all?¡±


    ¡°What? Uh.¡± Griff glanced at Tau, who looked to be tapping his foot impatiently while still watching the road.


    ¡°Please! I need to know now!¡±


    ¡°The hell could be the rush?¡±


    ¡°Please!¡±


    ¡°Alright, alright. ¡®Hazardous¡¯? You¡¯re asking if their body was like dangerous to touch, or something? That what you mean?¡±


    ¡°Yes.¡±


    ¡°A full report¡¯s still in the works, but no, it wasn¡¯t hazardous to others. Of course, wouldn¡¯t recommend touchin¡¯ the soup it made, still. Why?¡±


    ¡°Thanks, we¡¯ll talk later. Bye.¡±


    A ¡®Call ended¡¯ notification appeared to Griff. ¡°What the hell was that? Ear¡¯s wringing.¡± He took a long drag. ¡°What could possibly be¡ª?¡±


    ¡°Sir, they¡¯re here!¡± Tau called. Several police vehicles approached their location.


    ¡°Good.¡± Well, I¡¯ll ask her later, hopefully with some new¡ª. A sudden wave of heat washed over Griff as he turned to see the warehouse in flames. The cigarette fell from his mouth.


    The next night, rain poured over the Vyxora apartments. Griff jogged up the steps while using his coat to shield himself. He paused at the top, a dry area. He turned around, gazing into the cityscape while he plucked a wet cigarette from his mouth and stashed it with an exhaustive sigh.


    ¡°You are one cold bitch, Lyr. Rubbing it in my face now? Coulda used you last night,¡± Griff grumbled.


    A short while later, Griff approached a corner heading towards Reina¡¯s basement room. Yuna appeared, walking in a brisk daze. She had a fierce glare, albeit directed nowhere in particular, while mumbling inaudibly.


    ¡°Hey there, Yuna,¡± Griff said. ¡°Careful, rain just¡ª.¡± She walked through him, as if he weren¡¯t there. He bounced off her shoulder into the wall. ¡°The fuck, you¡ª,¡± he turned around to grab her, but she was already out of reach, ¡°brat?¡± He composed himself, watching as she disappeared from sight.


    Meanwhile, in Reina¡¯s room, Dante spoke with Reina-cat while holding an icepack to his calf.


    ¡°Are you okay?¡± Reina asked.


    ¡°Stings. A lot,¡± Dante said. ¡°I think even she mighta recognized it was a pretty hard kick.¡±


    ¡°You should know better.¡±


    ¡°Yeah¡­¡± Dante pressed the ice pack.


    ¡°Sorry. That sounds like victim blaming.¡± Reina shook her head.


    ¡°It¡¯s alright. If I¡¯m lucky, she¡¯ll feel just bad enough to humor me now.¡±


    ¡°Maybe. She¡¯s warmed up to you way more than I thought possible. Think it was years before she even remembered Lawrence¡¯s name.¡±


    ¡°She¡¯ll never warm up to that guy.¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t get that. Lawrence is so nice to talk to.¡±


    ¡°Right.¡± Poor bastard.


    ¡°Well? How¡¯d it go?¡±


    ¡°Fortunately, uneventful. No sign of Mother, tending to Augustus, at least according to Constance. Who was uncomfortably pleasant, whereas she usually treats me with not-so-subtle disgust. Must think I have some sway here.¡± Dante laughed. He noticed a slight head tilt from Reina. ¡°Don¡¯t know about Nero, probably sulking somewhere or breaking something. In and out, otherwise.¡±


    ¡°Really? That¡¯s all?¡±


    ¡°Told ya, your family life¡¯s skewed your perception.¡±


    ¡°Sorry.¡± Reina-cat¡¯s head drooped a little.


    ¡°Nothin¡¯ worth apologizing for. I¡¯m sure plenty out there would be jealous of you, but you should know by now I ain¡¯t one of ¡®em.¡±


    ¡°Hm.¡±


    The door opened, Griff entered. Dante and Reina-cat turned to him.


    ¡°The hell¡¯s with Yuna?¡± Griff asked in agitation. ¡°Brat walked through me like I wasn¡¯t even there.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s my queue.¡± Dante stood. ¡°It¡¯s better she didn¡¯t notice you. Trust me.¡± He limped away.


    ¡°What¡¯s with him?¡± Griff moved to sit next to Reina.


    ¡°Long-ish story,¡± Reina said. ¡°Yuna¡¯s in a very foul mood. It¡¯ll make sense later, though, somewhat. Thought you planned to be here earlier?¡±


    ¡°Yeah, I did. Went home to shower, closed my eyes a few seconds and passed out. More exhausted than I thought, clearly. Age is a fuckin¡¯ hassle.¡±


    ¡°Are you okay?¡±


    ¡°Physically, I¡¯ll live. Mentally? Well, let¡¯s just start.¡± Griff placed a cigarette in his lips.


    Reina explained the prior night¡¯s events along with the accompanying footage. They confirmed the three assailants to have similar garb to the scout Griff had encountered. They killed the guards outside Nero¡¯s waiting room, then attempted to inject him with a paralytic. He must have reacted in time to avoid the full dose, and a confrontation ensued. The impaired Nero fended them off until being cornered, to which Yuna soon entered the scene. After her brief exchange with them, they committed suicide, just as the scout had. Nero fell unconscious. Reina then explained that the council¡¯s intelligence apparatus, Shinobi, issued a hush order on the whole incident. They forced Augustus to take Nero¡¯s place in the duel. Even with Yuna holding back, he barely lasted a minute, to her great irritation. Reina expanded a bit more, then stopped.


    ¡°Let me guess, that¡¯s what¡¯s got her death staring?¡± Griff asked.


    ¡°Yes,¡± Reina said.


    ¡°She always did tend to anger instead of pout. Has she gotten worst?¡±


    ¡°In some ways, but.¡± Reina proffered a defense of Yuna¡¯s progress on tempering her rage until Griff interrupted.


    ¡°Settle down, I wasn¡¯t slandering her. If anything, used to always amuse me how she reminded me of young Celeste, despite them not being blood.¡±


    Reina¡¯s ears perked up. ¡°Yuna said Mama mentioned something about that recently. It¡¯s really true?¡±


    ¡°Yeah. Let me stop you before you even start, though. I¡¯m not risking Celeste¡¯s wrath any further. You¡¯ll have to ask her.¡±


    ¡°Mmm.¡±


    ¡°Now I get why the sudden call last night. Sounds like, despite you experiencing a big event, nothing¡¯s gonna come outta it.¡± Griff gestured to light his cigarette, then gave an exhaustive sigh. ¡°My news ain¡¯t so great, either.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯d rather you didn¡¯t, for your own health. But, not like I can inhale it, you can smoke if you really feel the need.¡±


    ¡°Tobaccos not so bad these days, ya know? Not healthy for you, but not as bad as it used to be. Very, very tempting. But my detective¡¯s instinct is telling me not to risk Celeste smelling it.¡±


    ¡°Mama doesn¡¯t really come in here, much.¡±


    Griff paused in thought. ¡°Heh. I must be wearing a long face if you¡¯re nudging me toward my vice. Perceptive little devil, ain¡¯t cha?¡± He gave Reina-cat¡¯s head a tussle. ¡°Rather unfair that I¡¯ve got a metal cat¡¯s face to read in comparison. How¡¯s that therapy goin¡¯? When ya gonna start being here in person?¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s¡­¡± Reina-cat¡¯s gaze shifted a tiny bit, looking past Griff, to which he noticed.


    ¡°Alright, fine, time to share my tale as well. Let me spoil the ending, though, no actual progress, same as you.¡±


    Griff explained how Tau and him scoured countless hours of traffic footage tracking the delivery van. They lost it several times, even assisted by AI software. They realized, however, a telltale sign to identify said truck; it looked too clean and maintained, in contrast to other such vehicles. This eventually led them to discovering it entering an industrial park. They didn¡¯t want to risk waiting for further access to any security the park might have, so they investigated on foot. They searched over a dozen warehouses storing various equipment and goods until, at last, they found the truck. At least, they were pretty sure it was. They had already repainted the truck, along with new decals. The inside proved pristine, void of anything to latch onto. The only things they found were the tools used to clean and alter the truck. Still, they were a little hopeful some mistake might¡¯ve been made. They had encountered no one, but just maybe, something was missed. Someone might also return, since the truck hadn¡¯t been scrapped. Tau hurried to call down a forensics unit. It was shortly after that Griff received Reina¡¯s call.


    ¡°Had things muted, for obvious reasons. Still, hardly expected to see so many missed from you,¡± Griff said. ¡°After that short chat and Tau¡¯s call, I turn to see the place go up in flames.¡± He shook his head. ¡°Took far too long to get the place extinguished. Burnt to a crisp would be an understatement. After we dug through the ruins from night into morning, the only thing that became clear was the fire was planned well in advance. Things were so thoroughly destroyed, even the truck must¡¯ve been rigged.¡± He let out an exhaustive sigh. ¡°So, we fucked up. Nothin¡¯ to show for all that effort. And no way such careful fuckers have left any trails to the property ownership, I¡¯m sure.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s unfortunate. At least you and Tau were outside, though,¡± Reina said.


    ¡°Yeah, same thought occurred to me. I¡¯ve got no idea if someone was hiding while we were inside. Whether they knew or thought we were cops. Or they arrived after we went out. Maybe they had cameras. Who knows? But if we assume it¡¯s the same group who seem willing to kill themselves off at a moment¡¯s notice, doubt they¡¯d have hesitated to catch us in the inferno.¡±


    ¡°Yes. About that. I want your opinion, and maybe your memory. That scout at the gov building. Did you hear anything from them?¡±


    ¡°¡®Hear¡¯? Don¡¯t think so. Like what?¡±


    ¡°A declaration.¡± Reina explained about the phrase the three assailants Yuna encountered had uttered before committing suicide. ¡°Loosely, it means ¡®freedom from flesh¡¯ in Latin. And watch.¡± She brought up the recording of the scout, slowed it to a near frame-by-frame playback, and zoomed into their jaw area.


    ¡°I follow. You¡¯re thinking they made the same declaration as they offed themselves?¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s hard to be sure with their mouth covered, but yes.¡±


    ¡°Well, christ.¡± Griff sat back in his chair with a sigh. ¡°Startin¡¯ to regret including you.¡±


    ¡°What? Why?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m gonna get an inferiority complex at this rate.¡±

 Chapter 23 - Loosen Up

    Griff and Tau exited a classic car into a parking lot at dusk. As Griff pulled out a wine-shaped bag from the back, he bemoaned of how the car used to sound, before being converted to electric. Tau¡¯s agreeable nods conveyed a conversation he¡¯d already experienced many times. Griff followed Tau out onto the street while the sun set. They made their way along a middle-class neighborhood with apartments and a few small stores lining the street. Several times store owners attempted to give Tau food or strike up a conversation, to which he would politely decline after introducing Griff. Soon, they made their way up some stairs into an apartment building. The building had a simple, modest quality to it, not particularity nice nor shabby.


    ¡°Sorry about that, sir,¡± Tau said. ¡°Our neighborhood can be a bit overbearing, but they¡¯re good people.¡±


    ¡°You spike their water supply or somethin¡¯?¡± Griff discarded a cigarette butt into a can they passed as they ascended. Tau slowed in confusion. ¡°Never seen a pig so liked. I¡¯ve been spit on more times than I care to remember.¡±


    ¡°Ah. Well¡­¡±


    ¡°Easy,¡± a woman¡¯s voice said from above. ¡°He doesn¡¯t talk down to everyone, for one, like pigs love to.¡± Griff and Tau reached the floor. A pregnant middle-aged woman stood halfway out an apartment door, with one hand holding a see-through measuring cup of some spice. ¡°And the foolish boy ensures this¡¯ the safest street around, patrollin¡¯ late hours like some damned alley cat.¡±


    ¡°Good evening, Marcia,¡± Tau said. She gestured to him. They had a slight embrace and kissed each other on the cheek. ¡°Everything well?¡±


    ¡°As well as they can be, being part-whale.¡± Marcia chuckled. ¡°Ran out, so just borrowed some from Jasmine. Thank her again.¡± She gestured the cup.


    ¡°Of course.¡± Tau flashed a smile.


    Marcia looked to Griff. ¡°Usually pigs don¡¯t call themselves pigs, but this boy keeps too busy to have friends, who¡¯re you?¡±


    ¡°Oink, Ma¡¯am.¡± Griff gave a gentlemanly nod.


    Marcia laughed. ¡°Heh. I like you.¡±


    ¡°I should¡¯ve introduced you both,¡± Tau said. ¡°Griff, Marcia, our wonderful neighbor. She¡¯s helped Jasmine and I a lot. Marcia, Griff, my senior detective and partner.¡±


    Marcia opened her mouth until a beep rang from her apartment. ¡°Ack. Always the flatterer. These¡¯re for Sunday, don¡¯t forget Tau dear. Gotta go. Watch over Tau, Griff.¡± She shot Griff a glance. ¡°You have a nice night now.¡± The door closed as she moved with surprising speed.


    ¡°Spry one, ain¡¯t she?¡± Griff asked.


    ¡°Yes, very. She helped us with Jake in the early days and many other couples here, too.¡± Tau moved toward a door. ¡°She¡¯s finally getting one of her own after trying for a long time with her husband. We¡¯re pretty happy for them.¡±


    ¡°Seems loud, but a far cry better than mine. Pretty sure fucker¡¯s stolen some delivery boxes.¡±


    ¡°Why not set up a camera or something if you really think that? That¡¯s a serious offense.¡± Tau opened the door.


    ¡°Eh.¡± Griff shrugged as he followed.


    Tau¡¯s apartment looked simple and pristine, yet had a welcoming atmosphere.


    ¡°That you, Tau?¡± a woman¡¯s voice called from another room.


    ¡°Yeah, Jaz,¡± Tau said.


    ¡°Sorry but, work emergency. I had to put Jake to bed early. He¡¯s got practice in the morning. Could you make sure he¡¯s asleep? And welcome, Griff. I hope to be done with this mess soon!¡±


    ¡°Apologies, sir, please have a seat. I¡¯ll be back.¡± Tau gestured to a table with food on it, then disappeared into a hall.


    After a brief time, Tau returned and apologized again before getting glasses for the wine Griff had brought. Jasmine urged they start without her. They ate in relative silence, sipping at the wine. About halfway through their plates, a young woman appeared alongside Griff before he noticed.


    ¡°It wasn¡¯t cold, was it?¡± Jasmine asked. Griff stood up, a bit startled, to face her. Tau then stood.


    ¡°It¡¯s been fine, Jaz,¡± Tau said.


    ¡°Just ¡®fine¡¯?¡±


    ¡°You know what I mean. Griff, this is my wife, Jasmine.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s a pleasure to meet you, Griff.¡± She reached out her hand.


    ¡°The fuck, Tau?¡± Griff asked, startling the other two. He shot Tau a glance. A grin crept over his face as Jasmine exchanged a worried look with Tau. ¡°If you¡¯d told me your wife was such a looker, I¡¯d have come a lot sooner.¡± He reached for her hand, pulled it close, then kissed it. She softly chuckled, followed by a smile. He withdrew.


    ¡°Tau warned me of your behavior around ladies.¡±


    ¡°How d¡¯ya like my icebreaker? Was the kiss too much? Always a bit of a gamble. Some ladies like it. Some not so much.¡±


    ¡°Oh really? I¡¯m fine with it.¡± Jasmine gestured they sit.


    ¡°Let¡¯s just say I¡¯ve been called a creep and slapped more than once.¡± Jasmine laughed, as did Tau, albeit he tried to stifle it. ¡°So, you do laugh.¡± Griff looked at Tau.


    ¡°Mr. serious¡¯ tongue¡¯s probably been loosened by the wine.¡±


    ¡°I see.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ll admit, you startled me for a moment with your ¡®icebreaker¡¯. Didn¡¯t know what to think.¡±


    Griff chuckled. ¡°Truthfully, I was gonna do it even if you weren¡¯t so pretty.¡±


    This content has been misappropriated from Royal Road; report any instances of this story if found elsewhere.


    ¡°Not sure how to feel about that. It¡¯s a shame you couldn¡¯t meet our son, and my delay.¡±


    ¡°No big deal. Not fond of kids, anyway.¡±


    ¡°Knowing Tau, he didn¡¯t try to strike up any conversation. How don¡¯t you like kids, though? Jake¡¯s pretty great.¡±


    ¡°Most parents think that. Well, they should, at least. Let¡¯s just say getting beat up by a young girl can sour you on brats.¡±


    ¡°Well, now you have to explain.¡±


    ¡°Heh. Maybe another day for that tale.¡±


    The trio ate together in earnest whilst sipping wine, then beer once they¡¯d run out. Jasmine guided the conversations between them, prodding Tau to speak more. He slowly did; his speech grew less and less formal. Griff shared some random anecdotes and stories. Jasmine tried to explain what she did as a programmer, working from home, to which neither man really understood when she boasted of solving the recent emergency. Once the meal wound down, Griff wanted a smoke. Jasmine directed him to their balcony. He left as Tau cleaned up.


    ¡°I¡¯m going to check in on work.¡± Jasmine pointed to the balcony. ¡°Go on, now. Here¡¯s your chance. You can have one.¡± Tau nodded, and they kissed before he went to stand by Griff outside. Griff¡¯s cigarette already had lost a third.


    ¡°Mind if I bum one?¡± Tau asked.


    Griff turned to him in surprise, then offered the pack. ¡°Since when do you smoke?¡±


    ¡°Did in my dumbass years. Keep it to a few a year only now.¡±


    ¡°You calling me a dumbass?¡±


    ¡°Uh, no, I¡ª.¡±


    ¡°Just fuckin¡¯ with ya. Course smokers are dumbasses. We accept the risk.¡± Griff glanced over Tau as he lit the cigarette and gave him a hard pat. ¡°Thought you¡¯d loosened up a bit tonight. You¡¯re back to looking annoyingly tense.¡±


    Tau coughed, following an inhale and the pat. ¡°Aight. Grifff, here¡¯s the thing.¡± His words slurred some. ¡°¡¯sides Jaz wantin¡¯ you here, I¡¯ve anotha ult¡­ulttt¡ª.¡±


    ¡°Ulterior?¡±


    Tau snapped his fingers at Griff triumphantly. ¡°That. Motive. Y¡¯see, I wanted ya ta understand where I¡¯m comin¡¯ from. Jaz¡¯s advice. She¡¯s tooo good for me.¡± He shook his head. ¡°They assigned me to ya to spy, but I want ya to know I dun¡¯t give a fuck bout the brass, hear me? I know yer legit. Ya need to get I¡¯m legit, too.¡± He stood at attention as he looked at Griff, who casually puffed at his cigarette while gazing at the city view. ¡°Need ya ta hear me, aight?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m listening.¡± Griff gave a dismissive wave. Guy sounds like someone else entirely all of a sudden. I¡¯m curious.


    ¡°That dumb bitch.¡± Tau pointed into his home. ¡°Fell for a dumbass piece of trash.¡± He slapped his chest a few times. ¡°We from same ¡®hood. I was part of the thirty-second street killers. Real fuckin¡¯ original, I know, embarassin¡¯ to even say that shit aloud, but they long been swallowed up, anyway. When she pregnant, I didn¡¯t bitch out, but I didn¡¯t leave the gang neitha. Then when I was out bangin¡¯, Jaz got jumped for some fuckin¡¯ groceries. Groceries. I was lucky they didn¡¯t have any blue. That woke me up.¡±


    Blue? Ah, right, that was slang for Excalium-edged weapons before ¡®transarms¡¯. Maybe still is? Eh, Griff thought.


    ¡°Wasn¡¯t easy, but I got out and got us away.¡± Tau rambled about joining the police force. He conveyed how much he wanted to protect his family, all while taking swigs of his beer. His speech at times became incoherent. Griff went through a few cigarettes. When Tau stopped talking, Griff looked over.


    ¡°Listen, kid, I ain¡¯t been withholding much from ya. I¡ª.¡± Griff realized Tau had passed out. Jasmine came out onto the balcony.


    Jasmine sighed. ¡°This dumb bitch does like to think she sensed this Tau all along.¡± Jasmine gently ran her fingers through Tau¡¯s hair. ¡°Could you do me a favor, please, Griff?¡±


    ¡°Maybe?¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t bring up how he¡¯s been talking. It¡¯s become a complex of his, leaving behind that hood speak. He worked really hard to stamp it out. It¡¯s why he¡¯s such a lightweight now.¡± Jasmine grabbed the beer and took a swig. ¡°Alcohol loosens him too much.¡±


    ¡°Sure does. Was kinda nice at first, not hearing that nonstop politeness. Sure became gibberish though as he went on.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m hoping he won¡¯t remember. He was real nervous about tonight. He thinks you¡¯ve been keeping him in the dark, only letting him know enough. That you don¡¯t trust him. If that wasn¡¯t clear, from his rambling.¡±


    ¡°Yeah, I got that much.¡±


    ¡°Whether or not that¡¯s true, he has talked highly of you. So I hope at least you understand his loyalty is to protecting others, above anything else. I know that¡¯s what he wanted to really get across.¡±


    ¡°Hmm.¡± Griff took a drag.


    ¡°Truthfully, I¡¯d rather him quit the force. Worst, he patrols the area even though this is a safe neighborhood in the first place; it¡¯s not like we¡¯d be able to live here off his salary. Oh. Sorry.¡±


    Griff laughed. ¡°Nah, painfully true. Doesn¡¯t take being a detective to realize you¡¯re the money. If I can¡¯t make heads or tails of a job description, they¡¯re probably making a lot more than me.¡± They shared a laugh together. ¡°Least the guy recognizes you¡¯re too good for him, ay?¡±


    ¡°Mmm.¡± Jasmine brushed Tau¡¯s hair.


    Meanwhile, in Reina¡¯s basement room, Yuna groaned as she passed a preoccupied Reina-cat. She followed a gesturing Dante into his room.


    ¡°I said sorry, didn¡¯t I?¡± Yuna asked. ¡°I don¡¯t feel like doing ALTR crap.¡±


    ¡°Just trust me, alright?¡± Dante asked.


    ¡°I don¡¯t trust you to be nice without an ulterior motive.¡±


    ¡°Fair. I do have one. But you trust Reina, right?¡±


    ¡°Grr.¡±


    ¡°You know her, working up to the last minute. She¡¯ll come soon as I confirm the setup.¡±


    Dante guided Yuna to an ALTR chair. Its superior quality would be apparent to anyone comparing it to the one he¡¯d been using, which laid dormant nearby.


    ¡°Well, it¡¯s more comfortable, at least.¡±


    ¡°Heheheh.¡± Dante had a mischievous excitement to him.


    ¡°Reminder that if you pull any avatar nonsense again, I will hit you hard. There won¡¯t be an apology.¡±


    A short time later, in the ALTR dojo Dante had brought Yuna prior, a decrepit old man with a long gray beard bounced on their feet. He stretched and made loosening gestures as they moved to one side of the area. He then sprinted forward, followed by several gymnastic flips and springboards down the length of the dojo. He twisted and turned his body with superb control until culminating in an extensive spinning backflip. He landed effortlessly, then shadow boxed before catching his appearance in a wall mirror. The athletic Dante approached. The old man shot him a glare.


    ¡°Dammnnn, Yuna,¡± Dante said. ¡°Guess being able to do that stuff IRL really translates.¡±


    ¡°Alright, this¡¯ pretty fuckin¡¯ insane. It¡¯s like I¡¯m controlling my actual body, maybe better.¡±


    ¡°See? I told ya. And your sync rate¡¯s already maxed. Crazy. If I try stuff like that, it just really doesn¡¯t work as well.¡±


    ¡°Yeah, yeah. I get why you¡¯ve wanted your stuff back so much, but.¡± The old man gestured at themselves. ¡°I warned you.¡±


    Dante made a pleading motion. ¡°Hold on, I¡¯m not messing with you this time, I swear. That¡¯s my avy for Mortal Fighter. A lot of people go for cute animal boy/girls, ripped solider types or just generally attractive avys. So, I went the opposite. Trust me, it¡¯s pretty damn funny watching an old dude whoop ass.¡±


    ¡°If I choose to believe you, why though?¡± Yuna looked at her wrinkled hands.


    ¡°My motive, aandd two birds, one stone. I¡¯ve hit a wall in Mortal Fighter. Always lose to this stupid fox boy.¡±


    ¡°¡®Fox boy¡¯?¡±


    ¡°You know, just a young boy with fox ears and a tail, real cocky sonuvabitch. Infuriating.¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t you have avys like that?¡±


    ¡°Yeah¡­ was hoping you forgot and it might annoy you.¡±


    ¡°Not really.¡±


    ¡°Fine. Anyway. Point is, he¡¯s one of the top fighters in the world. Meanwhile, you¡¯re super¡­ not pleasant IRL right now. But with my ALTR, you can unleash Yuna. Maybe even stronger than the real life one. Have the fight you wanted with my brother, but probably better!¡±


    ¡°Well¡­¡± Yuna watched herself shadowbox in the mirror as the old man. A grin crept along her face, growing as she sped up more and more. I¡¯ve felt so fucking restless. Can¡¯t figure out why. Thought I¡¯d feel better after beating down Nero, which didn¡¯t happen, of fucking course. Still won against The Legion, but it barely means anything? I¡¯d wanted those credits for Reina after all¡­


    Reina approached, glancing between them. ¡°Yuna?¡± Reina laughed.


    Yuna stopped, then nodded, still grinning. ¡°I get it.¡± She turned, then jogged toward the laughing Reina. ¡°Hug?¡±


    Reina backed away. ¡°What? No.¡± Yuna opened her arms for an embrace and playfully chased a fleeing Reina.

 Chapter 24 - No Matter What

    Over a week later, Dante sat alongside Reina-cat in the usual basement room of Vyxora as they worked.


    ¡°So how¡¯s Mortal¡ª, what was it?¡± Reina asked.


    ¡°Fighter. Yeah, that¡¯s really backfired on me.¡± Dante sighed. ¡°After she narrowly beat my nemesis, she wanted to start fresh. Now she¡¯s addicted, and hogging it.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ve been a little worried, but she¡¯s been in such a good mood. I didn¡¯t want to ruin it by telling her to slow down.¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t you two usually talk about, like, everything?¡±


    ¡°Yeah¡­ she told me at first and wanted me to watch, but I was busy the first few times. She stopped asking, though. I got consumed working on something and only realized how many days had passed since she last asked when Val talked to me today.¡±


    ¡°Eh. Nothin¡¯ to worry about, in my opinion. Bit of a pain to me, but I can respect she¡¯s experiencing her first real gaming high. I know you¡¯ve somehow had them with your weird taste in simulators.¡±


    ¡°Hey now, don¡¯t hate on CPA simulator, it¡¯s great.¡±


    ¡°Sure it is. Wait. What? Like an accountant? Seriously?¡±


    Reina giggled. ¡°Just kidding, that¡¯s not one, but you¡¯re probably right. I can relate.¡±


    ¡°Heh. Anyway. She cracked the top one-hundred already, but she¡¯s gonna hit a wall.¡±


    ¡°Wow. In the world? What do you mean, though?¡±


    ¡°She refuses to use special abilities. Shows how scary good of a fighter she is to even get this far. Makes me think Nero never had a chance, or Vito.¡±


    ¡°Are you sure she knows how?¡±


    ¡°Yeah, I explained¡ª.¡±


    ¡°Sorry, have to stop you. Call from Griff.¡±


    Reina-cat went silent. In Reina¡¯s room within the Vyx apartment home, she lay on a comfortable gigantic bed where her previous ¡®bed¡¯ once was. They had partially refurbished the room into a more typical bedroom. Several wires led into the wall from Reina. She wore a headset, similar to an ALTR.


    ¡°Hello Uncle Griff, it¡¯s late, how¡¯ve you been?¡± Reina asked.


    ¡°Hey, Reina. Yeah. Listen.¡± Griff spoke in an exasperated tone. ¡°I know this¡¯ out of the blue since we¡¯ve had no progress to talk about since last time. You haven¡¯t heard anything, right?¡±


    ¡°Not really, no.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ve been looking into things as much as I can, working on the premise they¡¯re some kinda cult as we theorized, but nothing substantial yet. You?¡± His tone fluctuated abnormally, almost frantic.


    ¡°Sadly, I haven¡¯t had much luck either. But Griff, you sound strange. Are you okay?¡±


    ¡°Fuck. I don¡¯t know why I¡¯m bothering with wishful thinking. As if saying it will make it true. Pathetic.¡±


    ¡°Uhm?¡±


    ¡°Truth is, Tau¡¯s missing. I¡¯ve got a gut-rot level bad feeling here. His wife saw him last night, assumed he went to sleep late, and got up early. Yet I haven¡¯t seen him all day. No one has. I don¡¯t even know what I¡¯m asking you or what you could have¡­ but have you heard anything? Even something small.¡±


    ¡°Oh no. Nothing comes to mind.¡±


    ¡°I really only gave getting to know the guy a chance recently, but I¡¯m not aware of this being something that happens. His wife assured me he pretty much only works and goes home. Shit. Fuck. Please, Reina, can you?¡±


    ¡°Of course, Griff. On it. I¡¯m already messaging my contacts.¡±


    ¡°Appreciate it. I¡¯m trying to avoid thinking the worst here. This stomach pit ain¡¯t letting me, though. If we¡¯re lucky, the kid has some vices no one knows about. Listen, Reina. Assume this is worst case. Take all the precautions and extra security measures you can for yourself, plus Vyxora.¡±


    ¡°What do you¡ª?¡±


    ¡°Gotta go.¡± The call ended.


    He didn¡¯t want to say it, but he must think they took Tau? Reina thought. If what Val said about him¡­


    A few days later, Artemis stood near Viktor on the cityscape planning floor of Aegis Industries. Several dozen people filed into elevators, leaving only them. Viktor, with swipes of his hands, altered a building¡¯s architecture over and over.


    ¡°Viktor, did you really take personnel from Project Esca?¡± Artemis asked.


    ¡°Hmm?¡± Viktor continued his movements.


    ¡°Viktor. This is serious, please stop what you¡¯re doing.¡±


    Viktor stopped and looked at Artemis. ¡°That¡¯s a rather icy stare, Artemis.¡± He glanced around. ¡°Where is everyone?¡±


    ¡°When it was a person here or there, teams could make do. But you¡¯ve interrupted work on an important contract, Viktor. You have to recognize that is not acceptable.¡±


    ¡°Is it really more important than Avalyontis, though? Artemis? Truly?¡±


    ¡°Level of importance is irrelevant, Viktor. Aegis Industries has a reputation to uphold for delivering on contracts we¡¯ve accepted.¡±


    ¡°Mmm.¡± Viktor paused. ¡°Fair enough. You may have them back. Tell me, though, what do you think of the city name?¡± A subtle excitement tinged his words.


    ¡°Adequate as any.¡±


    ¡°Dear Artemis, can¡¯t you give me a bit more than that? A-v-a-l-y-o-n-t-i-s, as in, Babylon? Atlantis? Avalon? Three mythical cities long revered for being well ahead of their time. I¡¯m even thinking of including a modern day hanging gardens. The world will look to this city for its very future. It will define what is possible, like wonders of old.¡± Viktor paused. ¡°That reminds me, I wanted to check with you. Such an excellent memory for these things. We built the eighty-third district, right? Charity or some such.¡±


    ¡°Eighty-fourth. Yes.¡±


    ¡°Right. Close. I¡¯ve been told we may lack in the more labor intensive vocations. We should be able to just relocate those residents to Avalyontis, yes?¡±


    Artemis paused. ¡°Yes.¡±


    ¡°Excellent. I¡¯ll get someone on that. You know, I have to commend you for how well you know me, Artemis. Had you not cleared everyone out and been someone else, I¡¯d have fired you for telling me what to do with my own employees.¡±


    ¡°You did fire the project lead for that, Viktor. That¡¯s why I¡¯m here.¡±


    ¡°Oh. My days are really bleeding into one another it seems. Can¡¯t remember the last time¡­¡± Viktor returned to manipulating the cityscape. ¡°Was there something else?¡±


    ¡°There is. I¡¯ve reason to believe Siegfried may have kidnapped a young policeman.¡±


    ¡°Ah, he mentioned something along those lines. I think that was the reason for his call? Permission? We briefly discussed his lack of success; he was quite apologetic, I recall? Having trouble remembering the specifics. Was it he¡­worried? Yes, worried. That the ¡®Aegis Slayer¡¯ might stay underground.¡± Viktor¡¯s gaze intensified on a building he manipulated. ¡°The entire ordeal slipped my mind. What was your question, again?¡±


    Taken from Royal Road, this narrative should be reported if found on Amazon.


    ¡°Nevermind. I¡¯ll take my leave.¡±


    ¡°Always a pleasure Artemis, send everyone else back in. Need to see if this idea is feasible.¡±


    A short while later, Artemis sat in her office.


    ¡°You¡¯ve probably never seen that Viktor, have you?¡± Xandr asked.


    ¡°No¡­ you must¡¯ve told me about it, though,¡± Artemis thought.


    ¡°Since we¡¯re having this convo, yeah. Musta. Back when it was Weihelm Industries, he¡¯d come by more and more as I progressed on Aegis. Eventually, every day. He¡¯s not too outwardly emotional. But you can just sense it in his words. An electric excitement. He would ramble on about how Aegis would change the world forever. Even though I was the one creating it, he grasped the world after and began planning accordingly. At least, I assume, from how heated our discussions became. In the end, he shut me down hard.¡±


    ¡°When you dared mention Aegis was something more; too important to merely be a product.¡±


    ¡°Yeah.¡±


    ¡°I thought he might flinch, a little, at least. To think he already knew.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s the true Weihelm you¡¯ve only ever seen glimpses of. The vision for his city will only grow.¡±


    ¡°Until anything and everything is acceptable.¡±


    ¡°Aren¡¯t you glad I saw it coming?¡±


    Artemis gazed at the wall with Xandr¡¯s picture. Sometimes, I wish you hadn¡¯t.


    The next day, Aelfric once again kneeled before Artemis in their ALTR meeting room. With his gaze affixed to the ground, he conveyed his latest spying results, including Tau¡¯s disappearance. Rare emotion tinged his voice.


    ¡°Belle already informed me,¡± Artemis said.


    ¡°Oh,¡± Aelfric said. Artemis recounted her interaction with Viktor, loosely. Such a vile creature, he is. Nothing will stop me from fulfilling my mistress¡¯ desire. ¡°I understand. What will we do, my Lady?¡±


    ¡°¡®Do¡¯? Nothing.¡± Artemis had a stern, distant gaze upon Aelfric. His head tilted up, staring forward.


    ¡°But has this monster not gone too far? This Tau appears an upstanding officer of the law.¡±


    ¡°So?¡±


    ¡°And he has a family; a wife and child.¡±


    ¡°Do you think those you¡¯ve killed thus far had no families?¡±


    ¡°What? No, I. They were, I mean¡­¡±


    ¡°What? Not ¡®upstanding¡¯ citizens? What difference does that make?¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s not what I mean, I¡ª.¡±


    ¡°Enough. Tell me, how would saving this officer benefit us in any way?¡±


    ¡°I¡­do not know.¡±


    ¡°Should I be concerned of your behavior and judgment?¡±


    Aelfric¡¯s head dropped while he compressed his kneel further into the ground. ¡°No!¡± He tempered his voice. ¡°My sincerest apologies, Lady Artemis. I allowed trivial emotions to cloud my judgment for a moment. Please forgive me for wasting your time.¡±


    ¡°I will forget. See that it does not happen again.¡±


    ¡°I swear upon my duty.¡±


    Artemis turned away, gazing at the Earth. She stood in thought for a time. ¡°Do you understand the significance of Siegfried¡¯s actions? It reveals an impatience. The man¡¯s hidden his true self well in our sparse interactions. Viktor certainly has no clue he may be a cult leader or some such nonsense. When we include this theory, it paints a picture of a far more egotistical creature than I¡¯d have thought. Further, we may presume his previous jobs met success far quicker and avoided complications despite his method¡¯s public displays. To this end, he¡¯s in uncharted territory. Do you understand what we must do, Aelfric?¡±


    ¡°We must wait, my Lady.¡±


    ¡°Correct. Our own patience is bearing fruit on multiple fronts. Viktor becomes more preoccupied, consumed, by the day. You are to continue as you are. Provide Belle with an extensive debrief on all that you¡¯ve learned. We will have her investigate your findings.¡±


    ¡°Understood. Please allow¡ª.¡±


    ¡°I forgot.¡±


    ¡°Yes, understood. Thank you for your time, Lady Artemis. I take my leave.¡± Aelfric disappeared.


    ¡°Aren¡¯t you worried about putting a crack in the adoration the boy holds for you?¡± Xandr asked.


    ¡°I don¡¯t need adoration. I need loyalty,¡± Artemis thought.


    ¡°Okay, sure, but it¡¯s not like you aren¡¯t feeling anything about leaving the officer to Siegfried. Would it hurt appearing¡ª?¡±


    ¡°One could easily argue I¡¯m taking advantage of a young man with severe mental issues. He may have sought me out incessantly, but ultimately I relented, allowing his service. At this point, he¡¯s become far too integral in my plans to allow him to be compromised by fleeting emotions and lapses of judgment.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s really not easy playing your doubts, you know. Stamping out weapons before I even get to wield them.¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re welcome to disappear.¡±


    ¡°You¡¯d miss my voice.¡±


    ¡°Hm.¡±


    A week passed. In Reina¡¯s basement room of Vyxora, Dante and Reina-cat sat in relative silence while their screens flashed. The only sounds were that of the server hums and Dante¡¯s keystrokes. Periodically, Reina-cat glanced at Dante¡¯s tapping fingers.


    ¡°After all this time, why don¡¯t you just jack in?¡± Reina asked, startling Dante.


    ¡°Huh?¡± Dante glanced at Reina-cat, who stared at the keyboard. ¡°Oh. Uh, kinda just got used to this. Could ask you the same, why you bother being Reina-cat? Why the screens?¡±


    ¡°Mmm,¡± Reina grumbled. A brief silence passed.


    ¡°My bad if I¡¯m wrong, as I¡¯m definitely terrible at reading these things as my ex-cyberwife would attest, but somethin¡¯ bothering you? Been pretty quiet and seemed rather annoyed just now. Which, I¡¯m having a hard time recalling that from you?


    Reina let out an exhaustive sigh. ¡°Sorry. For some weird reason, your keystrokes suddenly started irritating me. Even though I can¡¯t remember ever noticing them in the past. I think I might¡¯ve just been latching onto something.¡±


    ¡°To be annoyed about?¡±


    ¡°Yeah. I think.¡±


    ¡°Alright then.¡± Dante returned to what he had been doing prior.


    Reina-cat stared. Of course he wouldn¡¯t follow up. This is Dante. When the heck did I start confiding in him, anyway? Though he might be the only one that¡¯d understand. Wait. Did he say ¡®cyberwife¡¯?


    ¡°Did you say ¡®cyberwife¡¯?¡± Reina asked.


    ¡°Ex-cyberwife. What about it?¡± Dante said.


    ¡°Uhm. Like. You were married in ALTR? Right? Really? How¡¯s that work? What¡¯s that even mean? I kinda thought you were¡ª.¡±


    ¡°Whoa, too many questions in succession. It was in a game; there were some sweet benefits tied to it. Though, those weren¡¯t enough as she left me, eventually. Something about not listening. Or something, I dunno.¡± Dante shrugged.


    ¡°That¡¯s¡­more expected.¡±


    ¡°In hindsight, she mighta been a dude, anyway.¡±


    ¡°What?¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t get me wrong. You know I play female chars all the time, albeit I don¡¯t act particularly feminine, I think. And it¡¯s ALTR, it¡¯s about being free of judgment. Thing is, though, it wasn¡¯t an RP server, you know? So there¡¯s just some kinda weird deceit that doesn¡¯t sit right. But whatever.¡±


    ¡°Uh-huh.¡± I¡¯m lost. I kinda regret asking. Some time passed.


    ¡°Dante, do you mind If I vent, a little?¡± Reina asked.


    ¡°So something was bothering you. Shoot,¡± Dante boasted.


    ¡°Thanks. Thing is, Mama¡¯s been on my case a lot. Like, more and more. Telling me to go outside. Telling me to talk to people in person. She¡¯s even roped Yuna and Papa into nudging me each day. They keep getting more pushy even though I¡¯m busy like always. And they keep offering to shepherd me around, since I still can¡¯t walk, but I¡¯m exhausted enough after therapy dangit! And I get their worried but I can¡¯t just neglect my work, it¡¯s incredibly important! There¡¯s only so much time in the day. I never had to worry about these things before, but now Mama¡¯s bringing it up every time I see her! ¡®You should do this¡¯. ¡®You should do that¡¯. But I don¡¯t want to, damnit. I¡¯ll decide when to do those things! I¡¯m not a fucking child! Why can¡¯t they leave me alone?¡± Reina-cat¡¯s paw shot up to cover it¡¯s mouth. It slowly turned to meet Dante¡¯s gaze.


    Dante chuckled a little. ¡°Heh. Bet you¡¯re missing your old bed, aren¡¯t cha?¡±


    ¡°What? How¡ª.¡± Reina paused. ¡°How¡¯d you know? It feels¡­ wrong, to think that way.¡±


    ¡°You forget, I¡¯m the weirdo who envied your condition.¡±


    ¡°But it can¡¯t be right to feel like this.¡±


    ¡°You don¡¯t know what you''ve got until it¡¯s gone, as they say. Right and wrong are subjective, anyway.¡±


    ¡°Still¡­¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ve no idea where Celeste pulls her energy from. Kinda tires me just being around her. So, it¡¯s hard for me to think like she does. But if I had to guess what they¡¯re thinking, it¡¯d be they¡¯re assuming you were miserable in that bed, and just kept it buried like the good girl you are. Didn¡¯t want to burden them and all that jazz.¡±


    ¡°Really? There were, of course, some things I was envious of, but¡­it¡¯s true I never really complained even early on, if I think about it. So, you¡¯re saying that they¡¯re on my case because they thought I was miserable before and now want me to experience what I couldn¡¯t? Like, maybe they want me to make up for what they perceive as lost time?¡±


    ¡°Sure?¡± I didn¡¯t think that deeply, but sounds right?


    ¡°How could I get them to understand?¡± Reina stated the question aloud, albeit it sounded reflective.


    ¡°Dunno. Think I should point out something, though. I feel we¡¯re kindred spirits to some degree, but you defiantly still care about and like RL way more than me. So, uh, like, having a body might grow on you. Know what I mean?¡±


    ¡°I¡­¡± Reina giggled. ¡°You¡¯re probably right. I might be a bit scared?¡±


    ¡°You did have a panic attack that one time.¡±


    Reina giggled. ¡°It wasn¡¯t that long ago, but yes.¡±


    ¡°Tell anyone?¡±


    ¡°I haven¡¯t.¡±


    ¡°Might help.¡±


    ¡°Hmm.¡±


    A call appeared from Griff in Reina¡¯s visual. She answered. ¡°Hello? Griff? I¡¯ve been trying to get ahold of you for days.¡±


    ¡°Yeah. Reina.¡± Griff¡¯s tone rang low, each word conveyed weight. ¡°I listened to all the voicemails. I appreciate all the work you¡¯ve put in. But I¡¯m calling to let you know to pack it in. Too much time¡¯s passed. Thanks. Sorry.¡± The call ended.


    ¡°What? Griff? Griff?¡±


    ¡°He hung up,¡± Reina said.


    ¡°You were on a call? Thought you were just thinking.¡± Dante stopped typing and turned to Reina-cat. Reina explained Griff had called and what he said. ¡°Oof. Sounds like he¡¯s given up. That sucks.¡±


    ¡°Yes¡­¡±


    ¡°Random segway, but what¡¯s going on with The Legion outcome, anyway? Just popped into my head, now I¡¯m the slightest bit curious.¡±


    ¡°Oh, I didn¡¯t tell you? They¡¯re appealing to the council to nullify the result. For forcing your younger brother to fight¡±


    Dante chuckled. ¡°Ha. Sore losers. You guys even decide what you were gonna do? Can¡¯t imagine vassalizing them.¡±


    ¡°Still discussing.¡±


    ¡°Fair enough.¡± Dante returned to his work. A brief silence passed.


    ¡°Dante,¡± Reina said.


    ¡°Yeah?¡±


    ¡°Your insensitivity about Griff aside.¡±


    ¡°Ah. Figured I mighta flubbed that.¡±


    ¡°That you recognize that, is something. But, anyway, I wanted to thank you. I can¡¯t figure out how to phrase this without sounding insulting, so sorry about this - but I never thought you¡¯d give me such helpful insight. I only meant to vent.¡±


    Dante chuckled. ¡°Heheh. No problemo. I think my listening has really improved since coming here. Maybe there¡¯s a chance I could win back my fourth cyberwife, I really liked her.¡±


    Reina giggled. ¡°Good luck. Wait. ¡®Fourth¡¯?!¡±

 Chapter 25 - Unexpected Horizon

    On a cold, rainy night in a dilapidated district of Lyrsium, Leon and Yuna stood atop a rundown building around five stories high. They wore similar shadowed clothing, blending into the night. They sheltered from the rain only partially from via a taller adjacent building. Yuna fidgeted in a squat while Leon peered over the rooftop to an old theater across the street. He had a pair of binoculars that relayed various readings to his IRIS.


    ¡°You satisfied yet, Pops?¡± Yuna asked. ¡°There¡¯s a new ep dropping of Hell¡¯s Atelier soon. It¡¯s the only time I stay up so late. Plus, if I¡¯m not home to wake Reina, she¡¯s gonna be even angrier we didn¡¯t notify her.¡±


    ¡°All-nighter,¡± Leon said.


    ¡°Fat chance, old man. Even with your ban, she wants to be available. No way we don¡¯t get an earful.¡±


    ¡°Five upfront. Five after.¡±


    ¡°Holy shit. You serious? So ten times the normal amount? The hell? Who could¡¯ve pissed off the council that badly?¡±


    ¡°Conditional. Order.¡±


    ¡°Figures.¡± Yuna sighed and shook her head. ¡°So that¡¯s why you¡¯re so intent on trying to see shit, even in this damned rain. Let me guess, you want me non-lethal at first, don¡¯t you? God damnit.¡±


    ¡°Good girl.¡±


    ¡°You know, all these years, we¡¯ve never actually needed your prep, right? And while I hate those usually cheap ass shitbirds, they¡¯ve upheld your policy all this time, at least. Now I¡¯m definitely going to miss the premier¡ª.¡± Yuna felt the heavy thud of Leon¡¯s hand on her shoulder. The sheer pressure prevented her from wobbling even a little.


    Leon had turned toward Yuna. ¡°Yuna. Listen to me. Once is all it takes. Am I understood?¡±


    ¡°Yeah, yeah.¡± Yuna grumbled.


    ¡°Yuna.¡±


    ¡°I get it, ya fucking worrywart.¡± Yuna swatted away Leon¡¯s hand. ¡°Christ, we¡¯ve done this how many times? You know I behave¡­mostly.¡±


    Leon returned to observing the theater. ¡°Uncomfortable circumstances.¡±


    ¡°Okay, I¡¯ll drop it.¡± Yuna peered out at the theater alongside Leon. ¡°You ever think about how funny it is we¡¯re more scared of Reina and Mom¡¯s wrath than you know, what¡¯s about to go down?¡±


    ¡°Amusing. Our heads.¡±


    Yuna stifled a laugh. ¡°Heh, yeah. Def something screwy. Well?¡±


    ¡°Soon.¡±


    ¡°Hmph. Why they meeting in such a shit hole, anyway?¡±


    ¡°Primed demolition.¡± Leon placed the angled binoculars over Yuna¡¯s eye-line. ¡°Tomorrow.¡±


    ¡°Huh. Guess that would be a good place for shady meet-ups. Don¡¯t gotta worry bout leavin¡¯ traces.¡±


    A short time later, Leon entered the theater from a side entrance with great care and stealth, a peculiar sight for someone of his physique. He ducked into a nearby closet. After scanning the pitch-black immediate area, he discarded his rain gear. Meanwhile, on the opposite end of the building, Yuna used an adjacent wall to scale the theater¡¯s first floor and entered through a window soon after. She crouched in a simple, empty room. With no activity or light sources, she too discarded her rain gear into a corner. Faint moonlight revealed she wore the unsettling helmet which she had used when Nero marched on Vyxora, albeit it too, looked pitch-black, only visible via the gleam. From within the helmet, night vision revealed her surroundings. It had several other elements to its HUD as well. In the peripheral of her sight, a labeled box, ¡®Leon¡¯, showed biometric readings.


    ¡°No one,¡± Leon said, his voice clear within Yuna¡¯s helmet, with no sound escaping from it.


    ¡°Nothin¡¯ yet,¡± Yuna said. Leon too now wore a similar helmet, with the same display, and heard Yuna.


    The pair almost moved in concert as they investigated their immediate areas.


    ¡°Wasn¡¯t rain. No signatures. Thermals.¡±


    ¡°Yeah¡­no anything. You don¡¯t think they could¡¯ve sent us to the wrong place, do you?¡±


    ¡°Would be first.¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t hear shit outside of you and the rain. What the fuck? Supposed to be some damn meeting going on, right?¡±


    ¡°Guard.¡±


    ¡°I know, I know. I¡¯m going through the motions as always, god damned nag.¡±


    ¡°Focus.¡±


    Yuna growled.


    A short time later, they each approached the main amphitheater from their respective entrances. Yuna entered onto a second-floor mezzanine of seating while Leon carefully opened a fire exit to the side of the main stage. They both flinched as they peered toward the stage. An oppressively bright light caused them to switch off their night vision. Below the stage, in front of it, sat a pair of floodlights illuminating a tablet screen setup on a table. The rest of the room remained shrouded in darkness.


    ¡°Fuck that hurt,¡± Yuna said.


    ¡°Okay?¡± Leon asked.


    ¡°I¡¯m fine, few more blinks, I¡¯ll be good.¡±


    Within the pair¡¯s HUDs, it revealed their locations to one another. Their gazes affixed to the light source. They both moved to the closest respective walls to guide them forward. Leon crept along the stage edge until stopping in full view of the light. Yuna did the same, reaching the mezzanine railing.


    ¡°Status?¡± Leon asked.


    ¡°Just some lights around a table with something on it? The hell? I¡¯ma poke.¡±


    ¡°Wait¡ª.¡±


    ¡°My bad, too late.¡± A second later, a hilt-less knife pierced the tablet into the table.


    ¡°Yuna.¡±


    ¡°I said my bad.¡±


    As Leon sighed, the entire amphitheater lit up. A heavy clap echoed throughout. On instinct of locating the source, Leon and Yuna looked at the stage. There stood Siegfried, wearing a suit, a sturdy long coat and accompanying hat. His digital face had an unsettling realism and a jovial yet gentlemanly demeanor.


    ¡°Welcome, ¡®Faceless Reapers¡¯, as you¡¯re affectionately known,¡± Siegfried announced. ¡°Aha, certainly a moniker gained from your masks. Amusing. They remind me of my own.¡± He tapped his face, creating a slight echo.


    Meanwhile, Leon surveyed and analyzed the now-lit room. It revealed several dozens of people to have been sitting in the audience seats. They all wore the same garb as those Yuna had encountered over a month prior. It looked as if they were waking before they started to stand, one after another. A fair amount were also present in the mezzanine seating.


    ¡°I would like to¡ª,¡± Siegfried caught a knife between two fingers with relative ease, ¡°speak with you. That was rude, young lady. My findings indicated you were a vulgar one, Yuna.¡± He tossed the knife aside as he looked at her.


    Yuna, too, had reconnoitered the area, and reached for her transarms until freezing for a moment at the sound of her name. Mere seconds after Siegfried spoke her name, Leon dashed up the closest aisle.


    ¡°Distract. Lethal. Converge,¡± Leon said.


    ¡°Fuck yeah,¡± Yuna said. ¡°Hey, these creepy bastards look like those cultists?¡±


    ¡°I usually do not have to go to the trouble of elaborate traps such as this,¡± Siegfried said. ¡°However¡ª.¡±


    Again, Siegfried caught several knives between his fingers. At the same time, Yuna leapt from the mezzanine and threw a dagger that followed the knives. She then wielded her axe transarms while falling. She cleaved into two cultists in the midst of standing, tempering her descent until she landed. The cyan edge of the dagger glinted beneath the lights as it traveled toward Siegfried¡¯s chest. As it neared a few feet away, a third arm emerged from his suit, catching the dagger by its hilt. He glanced to Yuna, who had landed, then to Leon, who now wielded a gigantic transarm axe. Leon moved toward Yuna while cutting down the passive cultists in his path to her.


    Siegfried marveled at the dagger. ¡°Wasted an Excalium dagger on a mere distraction? Or perhaps she¡¯s confident in retrieving it? Regardless.¡± He looked at Leon, who continued his way to Yuna. The cultists continued to allow themselves to be cut down without resistance, though Leon prioritized removing them as obstacles, not ensuring fatal blows. ¡°I see why you were called ¡®Lionheart¡¯ once, Leon Vyx!¡± Leon continued without hesitation at Siegfried¡¯s obvious provocation. ¡°Not even a flinch. Impressive. Unfortunate my own distraction did not get to play out to my satisfaction, but as they did not immediately flee, it¡¯ll have to do. Enough faithful should be in position by now.¡±


    Just as Leon and Yuna met in the center aisle, the sound of snapping fingers rang throughout. It emanated from Siegfried, albeit he hadn¡¯t made the relevant gesture itself. All the cultists moved in concert, quickly blocking the pair¡¯s paths to any exit. Several cultists funneled in from an entrance at the center aisle, brandishing transarms of various kinds. The pair, meanwhile, shifted into a defensive back-to-back position on instinct in reaction to the sudden wave of surrounding movement. Some cultists now encircling them showed clear signs of being ones Leon and Yuna had struck down. Their wounds revealed abnormal flesh, parts of metal, and a light mixture of blood along with other fluids.


    ¡°What¡¯s the play, Pops?¡± Yuna asked.


    ¡°Free,¡± Leon said. He gripped his axe handle with both hands, whereas he¡¯d only held it with one while pushing aside the cultists prior. Yuna¡¯s head shifted toward him.


    ¡°No fucking way, really?¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t stray.¡±


    ¡°That it?¡±


    Meanwhile, Siegfried called out. ¡°We will get to know one another more intimately soon, but it¡¯s only fair that you know I am Siegfried. Further, as unlikely as it is, you do have the option of¡ª.¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re all fuckin¡¯ dead!¡± Yuna¡¯s thunderous voice roared, echoing throughout the amphitheatre. Her helmet came to life, appearing as a cosmic swirl of colors. She bent to her knees. The cultists with transarms had made their way to the inner circle surrounding the pair. She lunged at the nearest one with a lightning-quick slash.


    ¡°--surrendering to my faithful.¡± By the time the cultist¡¯s severed arm hit the ground, Yuna cleaved her axes into the necks of two others. ¡°Or not.¡±


    Another snap rang out. All the cultists sprang into action, engaging with Yuna and Leon. Leon¡¯s outer helmet visually synced with Yuna¡¯s as they mercilessly cut into the cultists. Despite their overwhelming numerical superiority, the cultists repeatedly failed to land attacks of their own. However, they displayed no hesitation in retrieving transarms from fallen brethren, nor stepping over them. The encirclement closed tighter on Leon and Yuna. With more transarms in the mix, cultists defended for longer against their onslaught. Yuna sought those with transarms, bringing the full might of her attention to them. Her transarms constantly shifted into different forms. Though she appeared an unbridled whirlwind of carnage, she still conducted evasive maneuvers as necessary; yet she slowly accumulated shallow cuts from the sheer amount of attackers. Leon meanwhile moved at a far slower pace, though no less destructive as mighty swings sent groups flying into one another. He would defend and in the same moment glance at either Yuna or Siegfried, then riposte. He purposefully kept moving toward Yuna. At the same time, cultist after cultist moved into the growing space between the pair. After noticing a shallow wound in her peripheral, Yuna¡¯s movement slowed considerably.


    This story originates from Royal Road. Ensure the author gets the support they deserve by reading it there.


    The fuck is with these guys? Yuna thought. Their movements don¡¯t make sense.


    ¡°Yuna!¡± Leon yelled, though only she could hear.


    ¡°Christ, my ears. What?¡± Yuna turned to see the encircling cultists that had created a wall between her and Leon. She saw Leon pushing into them and moved to do the same. ¡°Are these fucks endless? I¡¯ve already lost count.¡±


    ¡°Do not stray from me. They were making a concentrated effort to separate us.¡± Leon coughed. ¡°Only close. Me.¡±


    ¡°My bad.¡± The pair continued to fight for several minutes. Damnit Yuna, Pops¡¯ll never trust you off the leash again if you fuck up this chance. A full sentence means he ain¡¯t happy. C¡¯mon, show you aren¡¯t just mindlessly killing fools. ¡°There¡¯s something off about their movements. It¡¯s not just because they¡¯re amateurs.¡±


    ¡°Yes.¡± Leon glanced at Siegfried, who had continued to watch in silence since he last spoke. Leon then observed with great attention as his axe cleaved into a cultist body. Their heavily augmented bodies are making up for their severe lack of skill.


    ¡°What the hell¡¯s with them? They just keep stepping over their comrades to get cut down, too. And is it just me, or is there more strength to their attacks?¡±


    Something¡¯s very wrong, Leon thought. I¡¯ve made a grave error, haven¡¯t I? These movements. They are purposefully avoiding our vitals. This isn¡¯t a hit. They¡¯re trying to wear us down. Capture us? And there¡¯s no end in sight. My instincts are telling me that ¡®Siegfried¡¯ isn¡¯t merely waiting, either. No more time to think. ¡°Yuna. Follow.¡±


    Leon barreled toward the entrance while his transarm morphed into a plow-like shield. The cultists¡¯ slow reactions at the sudden charge resulted in dozens toppling into one another, creating space. Yuna followed in his wake, still mercilessly striking at the cultists. They broke into the lobby, however, countless cultists blocked the exits. Leon quickly surveyed the room, all while his transarm morphed back into an axe and he cut down encroaching cultists. He noticed grand staircases on their flanks held few cultists.


    ¡°Stairs,¡± Leon said. As he moved toward the left staircase, Yuna lingered in combat. He spotted a few cultists attempt to move between them, to which he swatted away. ¡°Stairs!¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m comin¡¯.¡± Yuna turned and saw a cultist flying into a group. She hurried to nigh lockstep with Leon. They ascended the stairs. ¡°Got a plan? Never thought I¡¯d say such a thing with so much prey, but barely feels like a fight. Lame fucks haven¡¯t gotten close to a decent hit.¡±


    ¡°Intentional.¡±


    Leon reached the top and secured footing. The second floor connected in an overhang with a railing above the lobby, leading off in several directions. Cultists flooded the space between said railing and the closest wall. He took in his surroundings, still fending off some. Yuna had almost reached the top.


    ¡°Whattya mean, ¡®intentional¡¯?¡±


    Meanwhile, Siegfried appeared at the top of the other staircase. ¡°Seems I guessed wrong. No matter.¡±


    ¡°Focus,¡± Leon said.


    ¡°I a¡ª.¡± Yuna paused her ascent when a transarm knife, obscured by the railing and cultist mob, pierced her helmet. It nicked her forehead above her right eye before withdrawing back into the mob. She looked at the damage from within as a drop of blood tingled upon her brow. She then pounced on the closest cultist in a fury of swings. ¡°Motherfucker.¡±


    Several nearby fell into the whirlwind of Yuna¡¯s attacks while she pulverized her target into the ground. Leon turned to see her onslaught. At the same time, he spotted the towering Siegfried moving with an eerie, aberrant speed while cultists parted en route to Yuna. His digital face had an unsettling, emotionless calm.


    ¡°Yuna!¡±


    By the time Leon dashed to Yuna, a transarm rapier emerged from the cultists, navigating through a small window of her swings. The entire length of the rapier had the Excalium glow. It nigh pierced her shoulder, only deflected at the last possible second by Leon¡¯s transarm, which had morphed into a poleaxe. Moments later, she had stopped her fury and swung upward with both axes at the rapier. However, it had already receded, and she missed entirely. The cultists meanwhile withdrew from the space between. Leon lunged with a flurry of thrusts at Siegfried, who in turn deflected each with the single rapier. Yuna cursed as she crouched, then lunged toward Siegfried¡¯s legs. The same singular rapier deflected her axes for a moment, altering her entire course. He continued to deflect Leon¡¯s thrusts while his leg moved at an almost imperceptible speed, launching Yuna toward Leon. She held her axes crossed at the point of impact, having narrowly defended. Leon switched to one arm, still attacking, as he roughly caught her with the brunt of his body. His feet slid backward at the force. She gasped as it had knocked out the wind of her.


    ¡°Not bad,¡± Siegfried said. A menacing smile crept along his digital lips.


    Leon ceased his attacks. Siegfried made no movements, his rapier hanging aloft. Leon glanced to the stairway, which had filled with cultists. He felt Yuna stir, her feet dangling above the ground. He broke into a full sprint down the nearest corridor.


    ¡°Oh? Is that it for foreplay?¡± Siegfried called.


    ¡°The hell¡¯re you doing¡ª.¡± Yuna coughed up a bit of blood. ¡°God damnit. That cunt seriously cracked a rib? Let me down. I can walk, christ.¡±


    Yuna struggled a bit, dragging her feet. Leon stopped and released her. She coughed again as she sheathed her transarms, then poked at her ribs and winced. Leon quickly scanned their dim surroundings. Cultists appeared in the distance from whence they came. He placed both hands on her shoulders, directing her to his gaze.


    ¡°Listen,¡± Leon said. ¡°We¡¯ve got too many disadvantages. We need a more favorable location. And you are not to engage this ¡®Siegfried¡¯ without me. Am I understood?¡± His voice crackled.


    ¡°Aw, c¡¯mon Pops, it¡¯s just a rib,¡± Yuna said. ¡°It was my bad. I fucked up. No need to talk so much, we¡¯ll be fine.¡±


    ¡°No. Capture. Not kill.¡± Leon squeezed her shoulders, then glanced to the incoming cultists. ¡°Follow.¡± He pushed her into a jog as they moved along, passing various doors.


    ¡°You¡¯re saying they¡¯re trying to capture us? Guess that would make a lot more sense with how weird the fighting¡¯s been. Still. They¡¯ve just got numbers.¡±


    As I feared, Leon thought. She doesn¡¯t recognize a foe to be wary of. She¡¯s experienced real failure too little. Can I even hope to convince her? That thing is unlike¡­


    ¡°Pops? You got a plan or what? We just runnin¡¯ aimless?¡±


    ¡°Rooftop.¡±


    ¡°Ah, yeah. I get you. Like a tap of these cockroaches we can control. Right?¡±


    ¡°Yes.¡±


    ¡°Hey do you think that Sieg¡­whatever could be the Sculptor? Kinda pictured some weird weakling, though.¡± Yuna coughed and grabbed her side. ¡°That fucker better show again, got me good.¡±


    Leon appeared preoccupied with their surroundings, constantly scanning.


    Is Pops ignoring me? Yuna thought. Fuck. I can¡¯t see if he¡¯s even got a scratch¡­ I¡¯ve gotta redeem myself.


    After some time passed, Leon and Yuna emerged onto the roof of the building. The city lights faintly illuminated the area. The rain had become a drizzle, which re-wet the dried blood and fluids on their bodies. They barred the door to take a breath. Cultists beset it mere moments later.


    ¡°The hell¡¯d you keep stopping for?¡± Yuna asked.


    ¡°Forget it.¡± Leon said. He took off his helmet and gestured that Yuna do the same. He inspected the minor cut above her eye, then again grabbed her shoulders, this time locking eyes with her. ¡°Listen to me. This is an order, understand? You are only to engage that thing alongside me. Do not underestimate this opponent. Am I understood?¡±


    ¡°Sure.¡± Yuna picked at her eye with a pinky finger.


    ¡°Yuna.¡±


    ¡°I get it. Understood, sir.¡± Yuna reciprocated Leon¡¯s serious gaze. He relinquished his grip. This isn¡¯t like him, he couldn¡¯t actually be? Nah, no way. Not him. He¡¯s just being cautious, as always. Yeah. Sucks, but I¡¯ve only myself to blame for earlier. She sighed with a shrug as she loosened up.


    Several transarms cut through the door. Cultists flooded out. Leon and Yuna made quick work of them. A pile of bodies soon littered the doorway, so much so that further cultists tripped over them. After the pile reached several feet, they halted.


    ¡°Enough,¡± Siegfried said.


    The cultists dragged their fallen from the doorway. Despite his hulking physique, little sound had preempted his appearance at the door. He crouched a little as he entered the roof. Before he stood upright, Yuna lunged at him with a spear. With immense speed, his rapier deflected it, sending her off balance. Leon steadied her a moment later. Siegfried stood.


    ¡°Impatient one, aren¡¯t you?¡± Siegfried asked.


    ¡°Fuck,¡± Yuna said. Leon grunted. He whispered in her ear, barely moving his lips.


    ¡°Ahh. Your faces. In the flesh. I suppose the night air is refreshing.¡± Siegfried¡¯s digital face acted as if it felt the breeze. He then gazed at the pair. ¡°I don¡¯t suppose we could have a word?¡±


    Leon and Yuna dashed to Siegfried¡¯s flanks. The swings of their respective transarms were in-sync as the blades neared him. Loud clangs resonated when he used a rapier in each hand to deflect them. A repeated clash of their transarms ensued. Leon and Yuna¡¯s morphed into various forms, yet were deflected with eerie precision over and over, their synchronized attacks proving to have little effect. Outside of his flurry of arms, Siegfried remained unsettlingly still. Then, he started to riposte after each deflection, drastically slowing Leon and Yuna¡¯s offensive as they narrowly defended with a mix of blocks, parries, and outright dodges.


    ¡°Fuck, fuck, fuck,¡± Yuna said as she defended against a series of jabs. The fuck is this dude? I¡¯m barely keeping up. How¡¯s this possible? Fuck!


    ¡°Impressive,¡± Siegfried said. His speed increased. It forced Leon and Yuna to defend more as each second passed, with fewer attacks of their own.


    Then, a rapier shallowly pierced Yuna¡¯s right shoulder. ¡°Shit.¡±


    Yuna swung as hard as she could with an axe transarm at the rapier blade. Its tip had already exited her shoulder. She¡¯d intended to break it, yet it merely ricocheted off. However, Siegfried had overextended his grip whilst still contending with Leon. In turn, his arm got carried upward. Meanwhile, Leon fared better than she, having returned to a near equal balance of defense and offense.


    I¡¯m getting a better feel for his abnormal movements, Leon thought. Does his overwhelming physical¡­mechanical? Abilities give him false confidence? It¡¯s difficult to gauge how serious he is. Maybe he¡¯s not as experienced as his prowess conveys? Still. Was this a mistake? How¡¯s Yuna?


    Leon looked to see Yuna¡¯s heavy deflection of the rapier. She then lunged at Siegfried¡¯s nearest leg with her other transarm sword. At the same moment, Leon¡¯s eye caught a slight shifting of fabric around Siegfried¡¯s chest. Siegfried¡¯s gaze shifted down. A split-second later, Leon dived forward. The rapier he¡¯d been fighting moved in empty air, as if on autopilot. A third arm with another rapier shot out from Siegfried¡¯s suit, its course set for Yuna¡¯s back. Before it reached, it pierced through Leon¡¯s outstretched hand. Leon grabbed the blade in that same hand as blood spilled out while he landed on his knees. He swung a long transarm sword down through Siegfried¡¯s outstretched third arm, severing it. At the same time, Yuna¡¯s sword pierced through his leg. The second after she landed, she rolled away. Siegfried appeared unaffected by the damage inflicted. Both of his arms, rapier in hand, now bore down on Leon until the entire building suddenly shook, distracting him. Leon¡¯s transarm morphed into a war hammer, which he slammed with reckless abandon, fracturing the rooftop beneath them. He then pulled out the rapier in his hand while several explosions shook the building, one after another. Yuna¡¯s eyes widened in horror as she watched Leon. He leapt back, narrowly missing the rapiers as Siegfried¡¯s attention returned. Another explosion underneath Siegfried shook. The ground crumbled beneath his immense weight.


    ¡°Well executed. That was unexpected.¡± Siegfried retracted his arms, standing upright as he fell to the floor below. ¡°Be back soon.¡±


    Yuna rushed over to Leon, she carried her remaining transarm as a dagger. She leaned into a crouched Leon. He had ripped off a piece of cloth and was wrapping it around his hand.


    ¡°Fuck. Fuck,¡± Yuna said. ¡°Was that my fault? What happened? Fuck.¡± She grabbed the cloth, binding it around the wound.


    ¡°I¡¯m fine,¡± Leon stood. He looked at the blood dripping from Yuna¡¯s shoulder. ¡°Are you okay?¡±


    ¡°What?¡± Yuna glanced at her shoulder. ¡°This¡¯ nothing. You¡¯re the one with a hole in their hand. Was that my fault?¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry.¡± Leon walked away to the edge of the roof. Yuna followed, repeating the question. He looked down to see dozens of cultists surrounding the building. I have to lie to her. I know her too well. She¡¯s never going to forgive me, but I can¡¯t risk it. He sighed. ¡°It was. Are you ready?¡± He gestured toward the stairs, visible from across the partially collapsed roof.


    ¡°What? Yeah, of course. Always.¡± Yuna said in rapid succession. ¡°What the fuck were those explosions, though?¡±


    ¡°Me.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s what you were doing? Coulda told me.¡±


    ¡°Backup.¡±


    ¡°Well. Damn. You can tell me ¡®told ya¡¯, if you want.¡± Yuna shifted into a stance with her dagger brandished. Fucking hell, I¡¯m pathetic. How long¡¯s it been since I thought I¡¯d surpassed the old man?


    Siegfried didn¡¯t mask his steps. The heavy clang of his weight upon the stairs echoed as he ascended to the rooftop. Leon stood behind Yuna, gazing at her with a forlorn expression. He took a deep inhale.


    ¡°Told you.¡± Leon locked his arms around Yuna¡¯s neck in a submission hold.


    ¡°Hu¡ª?¡± Yuna almost stabbed the arm around her neck but hesitated and dropped it before clawing at it in vain.


    ¡°I leave Celeste and Reina to you.¡±


    Yuna fainted as blood from Leon¡¯s hand drenched the bandage and her shoulder. He kissed the top of her head for a brief second, then caught and lifted her falling form. An autonomous passenger drone appeared behind them, landing. Its doors opened. He grabbed her dagger, then placed her with care on the floor before carving ¡®Horizon¡¯ above her head. He withdrew as the doors closed and tapped his wrist.


    Sorry for the window, old friend. I trust you¡¯ll remember, Leon thought.


    The drone flew off just as Siegfried emerged onto the roof in time to see it. He clapped emphatically a few times as he met Leon¡¯s gaze with a subdued digital expression.


    ¡°I was warned not to underestimate you.¡± Siegfried shook his head. ¡°I didn¡¯t. And yet.¡± He gestured an arm toward the drone.


    ¡°I surrender,¡± Leon said. ¡°If you let it go.¡± Siegfried turned and lowered his arm. Leon continued to watch the drone out of the corner of his eye.


    ¡°So you even assumed I¡¯d have something up my sleeve, literally. Let alone that you prepared such a thing. How vexing. I struggle to recall a quarry as difficult as you. You have my adoration.¡±


    Leon swayed slightly as he ripped cloth to fashion additional bandaging for his hand. Siegfried¡¯s snap sound rang again and cultists soon ascended the stairs while he observed Leon, his expression contorting.


    ¡°I was also warned you aren¡¯t much of a conversationalist. Seems my difficulties have only just begun.¡±


    Leon glanced at the distant drone, then tapped in the air, manipulating his IRIS. A second later, explosions went off in rapid succession below. The building collapsed in on itself.


    A short time later, in a rundown apartment building, Griff sat passed out at a small table. He wore a t-shirt and boxers, both looking quite discolored. While stirring, he knocked several empty bottles and pills off the table onto the ground. He had a shaggy beard and unkempt hair. A revolver lay at the fingertips of one of his hands. The apartment held little in the way of furniture and decoration. City lights filtered in through shades. Light illuminated one wall, which had maps, documents, photos and more plastered in a wide array. Suddenly, an autonomous passenger drone crashed through the windows, knocking Griff over as it slid to a halt.

 Chapter 26 - Burning Rage

    Griff awoke in an awkward position. He blinked over and over as he attempted to grasp his senses.


    ¡°Amph Ish dreasin¡¯?¡± Griff said.


    He fumbled about to sit upright, his vision distorted. Banging resounded from his walls and front door, along with shouting. He cursed them out in unintelligible gibberish until they stopped. He shook his head while picking up empty bottles until finding one with some alcohol remaining, chugging it immediately. Meanwhile, one of the passenger doors of the drone opened while the other jammed on the wall. He dragged himself to his feet, his vision slowly focusing. He placed a hand on the drone as he steadied himself.


    ¡°Th¡¯ fuck?¡± He shuffled to the open door. ¡°Yu¡­¡± He stifled a dangerous belch. ¡°¡­na?¡± She had rolled to the edge, slightly hanging onto the floor, still unconscious. He glanced around, his vision at last steadying. He spotted the carved word. ¡°Hori¡­Horizon?¡± He stared blankly for a while, then appeared to wake from his stupor. ¡°God damnit, Leon.¡±


    Griff stumbled back to the table. He used one arm to balance while the other shifted through the remaining pills and knocked away further bottles. He then grabbed a handful of pills before looking around the immediate area. He bent and picked up the revolver awkwardly. He stood back up, placed the pills on the table, and then slammed the butt of the revolver onto them a few times. Just as they were ground into powder, the revolver went off, firing a bullet into the ceiling. He barely reacted.


    ¡°Ah, shit.¡± He tossed the revolver aside, then bent down and snorted the powder. ¡°Fuuuuuck.¡± He shot upwards, his eyes wide open and bloodshot. His entire demeanor had changed in an instant, now appearing energetic and alert. ¡°Good thing this shit hole has so many vacancies.¡± He glanced at the bullet hole. ¡°Least I think no one lives up there¡­¡± He turned back to Yuna, and the crashed drone, while glancing at the hole it hung from in the windowed wall. ¡°Yep. Fuck. Wasn¡¯t hallucinating. Surprised my fucked brain remembered that promise, though.¡± He stared at the etched words. ¡°Did you really kick the bucket, you bastard? The hell could¡¯ve happened? To think you¡¯d call in this promise when I¡¯m at the brink again. What¡¯re the fucking odds?¡± He laughed in an unhinged manner.


    A short time later, in the early morning darkness, Griff, now sloppily clothed in his usual attire, cradled Yuna at his chest in front of his car in a garage. Sweat dripped from his strained face as he shook while lowering her into the backseat. He withdrew, exhaling deeply as he caught his breath and leaned against the car.


    ¡°Christ almighty. Don¡¯t think I could¡¯ve lifted her without being primed. Damned girl¡¯s solid muscle.¡± Griff pulled out and lit a cigarette, taking a drag. He then patted his coat pockets. ¡°Well, I wouldn¡¯t have gotten the deposit back, anyway. Hopefully won¡¯t have to abandon you, though.¡± Griff caressed the car hood before getting in. He then started the car. ¡°Better top myself off, driving and all.¡± He dabbed some powder on his backhand, then snorted it.


    A little time later, Griff drove through the streets of Lyrsium. Yuna remained unconscious in the backseat. He tossed a lighter aside, then rifled through his glove box until pulling out another. He lit a cigarette before cracking his window.


    ¡°Suppose I could tell them I¡¯m coming, just be vague about it. Yeah,¡± Griff said. He glanced to the rear-view mirror, then tilted it, unable to see Yuna until suddenly a knife hung at his throat.


    ¡°Who the fuck¡¯re you and where are you taking me?¡± Yuna asked. Griff continued to drive, taking a drag on his cigarette, but otherwise calm.


    ¡°Whattya mean? It¡¯s Griff, ya fucking brat. Didn¡¯t see any serious damage. You take a blow to the head? And where the hell were you hiding that?¡±


    ¡°What? Griff? Really?¡± Yuna¡¯s expression turned sour as she reeled back. ¡°You fucking reek, old man.¡±


    ¡°Do I?¡± Griff sniffed at his armpit. He flicked his cigarette out the window. Then, while looking at the road, pulled out a spray can from the glove box and tossed it to Yuna. ¡°Should be enough in there to douse me. Might¡¯ve been a spell since I showered. Didn¡¯t seem appropriate in the circumstances.¡± Yuna didn¡¯t hold back, drenching Griff in deodorizing mist. ¡°Christ girl, watch the eyes. I¡¯m driving.¡± She sniffed at him, finding the smell tolerable enough to lean off to the middle.


    ¡°How¡¯d I end up here? What¡¯s going on? What was I last doing?¡±


    ¡°No goddamned clue. You should know more than me.¡± Griff quickly summarized his side of events. ¡°Headin¡¯ to Vyxora now. As to why me, repaying a debt to Leon. Long story.¡±


    ¡°Pops?¡­pops¡­shit! Fuck! Goddamnit!¡± Memories of the night flooded Yuna¡¯s mind until she recalled the fading of her consciousness with Leon¡¯s arm around her neck. ¡°Reina! Call Reina! Now!¡± She hopped into the front seat, then looked at the center dashboard.


    ¡°Cool your jets. Was about to before you woke up. And be careful, my patch job was half-assed at best, don¡¯t start bleedin¡¯ everywhere.¡± He typed away at a touch screen.


    ¡°The fuck, don¡¯t you have voice commands?¡±


    ¡°Eh.¡± Griff shrugged.


    ¡°Griff? You finally called,¡± Reina said. ¡°But couldn¡¯t have picked a worst time. I¡¯ve been trying to reach Yuna and Papa and¡ª.¡±


    ¡°About that¡ª.¡±


    ¡°Reina! Listen!¡±


    ¡°Yuna?¡±


    Yuna frantically explained the events leading up to that moment, though only in the broadest strokes, especially with her impaired memories. She pleaded for Reina to focus all efforts on locating Leon.


    ¡°O-Okay! On it!¡± Reina said. I¡¯ve never heard Yuna like this. Please be okay, Papa. My head¡¯s going a mile a minute, but there¡¯s no time to¡ª.


    ¡°We¡¯re almost there,¡± Griff said. ¡°Tell Celeste to ready the medkit.¡±


    ¡°What? Yuna¡¯s hurt?¡±


    Yuna punched Griff¡¯s shoulder, hard. ¡°I¡¯m fine, it¡¯s just a few scratches! Focus on Pops!¡±


    Christ, I even felt that while primed, Griff thought. How the fuck am I gonna follow through on getting them to leave Lyrsium? Your family loves you way too much, Leon. I don¡¯t like my chances.


    Over an hour later, Artemis slept in her bed within her apartment. She awoke, then shifted into a seated position with her feet on the floor. She tapped the air, answering a call from Aelfric that appeared in her IRIS.


    ¡°Aelfric?¡± Artemis asked, her tone lower than usual.


    ¡°My sincerest apologies for waking you at this hour, Lady Artemis, I¡ª,¡± Aelfric said.


    Artemis shook her head, as if to discard her drowsiness. ¡°Spare me, Aelfric. You¡¯ve never called this emergency number once. Let alone contacting me at this hour. That conveys the gravity. Speak. To the point.¡±


    A brief silence hung until Aelfric spoke. ¡°I¡¯m humbled by your understanding, my Lady. I¡¯ll skip to my query. Do you know where Siegfried¡¯s primary headquarters are?¡±


    ¡°I do. Why would you ask such a thing?¡±


    ¡°Sparing ¡®how¡¯ I learned of this, Siegfried attacked Leon and Yuna Vyx.¡± Aelfric quickly summarized what he¡¯d learned of the events that had transpired only a few hours prior. ¡°To this end, I see this as an opportunity to gain leverage over the Vyx while removing Siegfried from our path. With your permission and information, I will eliminate him.¡±


    ¡°I do not question your ability. However. Does the fact Siegfried bested two - whose skill you¡¯ve recognized throughout your surveillance - not imply his enhancements provide a great deal of prowess? This incident negates our theory that he lacked such combat capabilities.¡±


    Stolen novel; please report.


    ¡°My intention is to fight alongside Yuna.¡±


    ¡°Ignoring for a moment how you plan to achieve that, what makes you think she wouldn¡¯t turn on you? You won¡¯t be able to hold back.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m confident she will set aside our past to ensure Leon¡¯s safety.¡±


    ¡°Hmm.¡± Artemis paused. ¡°In a worst-case scenario, Siegfried could capture you. You would jeopardize my entire life¡¯s work. Do you comprehend this risk? What you ask of me?¡±


    ¡°I would slit my own throat or swallow my tongue without hesitation before I let that happen, my Lady.¡± Aelfric paused. ¡°However, I¡¯m confident the benefits far outweigh the risk. I¡¯d like to put forth that we revive ¡®Phase Ultra¡¯ - with Yuna as the key figure. We can leverage this incident.¡±


    ¡°Oh? How unexpected.¡± A few quiet seconds passed. ¡°You¡¯ve changed, Aelfric.¡±


    ¡°Changed? I don¡¯t follow, my Lady?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯d be hard-pressed to ever recall you taking initiative. All these years, it¡¯s always been simply following my orders, unless I solicited your opinion.¡±


    ¡°No, I. My apol¡ª.¡±


    ¡°Silence. I didn¡¯t say it was negative. It¡¯s welcome, to be frank. The truth is, I¡¯ve contemplated the same possibility. I will allow it. However, while you¡¯re not technically lying, you¡¯ve clearly given this a great deal of thought. I know you have an ulterior motive.¡± Aelfric opened his mouth to speak. ¡°Don¡¯t.¡± He heard her voice in his head, though she did not speak. ¡°I can guess. But ultimately, as long as I don¡¯t have reason to question your resolve toward my goal, it doesn¡¯t matter.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m unworthy of such trust, my Lady. Thank you.¡±


    ¡°Moving on. How do you possibly plan to convince her?¡±


    ¡°Please forgive my impudence for the following. I would like to reveal my involvement with Reina¡¯s incident. While I intend to be as vague as possible, I know this may be taboo in your eyes. I¡¯ve failed to think of a more effective solution to convince her with time so critical.¡±


    Artemis sighed. ¡°My unpleasant feelings aside, this would complicate things further. You do not even know for sure Leon¡¯s been captured.¡± She sighed again.


    ¡°I can¡¯t refute that. Yet, with what we know of Siegfried, he can be surprisingly impatient at times. Therefore, I fear caution at this time could squander the leverage we would gain over Vyx.¡±


    ¡°With a more dire goal fueling her, Reina may be able to locate him on her own. Do you agree?¡±


    ¡°I wouldn¡¯t underestimate her. However, I still believe now is the most opportune, especially if Siegfried neglects to repair himself, assuming they have inflicted some damage.¡±


    Artemis chuckled softly.


    ¡°Lady Artemis?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m starting to think you prepared these arguments in advance. So be it. I trust you¡¯ll not fail me.¡±


    ¡°Every fiber of my being will be put on the line, my Lady.¡±


    Meanwhile, at an undisclosed location, Leon awoke in a surgical chair. He blinked, wincing at the bright lights cascading over him. His vision focused a bit as he shifted an arm. He felt restraints press down on him. He turned his attention toward a sensation on his right arm. Siegfried, seated, wrapped bandages around a sizable gash. His usual digital face instead showed a chaotic ever-changing swirl of colors.


    ¡°You¡¯re awake,¡± Siegfried said. ¡°You¡¯ll have to forgive me for the poorly applied aid. This would be a first for me. You¡¯re quite the sturdy fellow, though. It¡¯s remarkable you not only survived, but with so minor damage. Perhaps a few broken things. Oh, and, you weren¡¯t paralyzed in the collapse. In fact, this wound is from a rare moment of anger, to which I threw one of my rapiers. So very vexing.¡±


    Siegfried finished the bandage application and stood. Leon¡¯s eyes followed in a haze. Only darkness lay behind the bright lights focused on him. Various machines and devices were strewn about, along with several tables. Siegfried picked up a scalpel from a table littered with medical instruments. He returned to Leon, then stabbed him in the thigh. Leon gave no reaction. Siegfried chuckled.


    ¡°You¡¯re something special. Sure, you don¡¯t feel pain anymore since I¡¯ve purposefully severed your spinal cord, but to not even wince at such a sight? I may have to rethink my plans. It¡¯d be a waste. But yes, you heard right, I¡¯ve removed the use of your legs. I¡¯ve every intention of overestimating you after last night¡¯s events. It¡¯s morning now.¡±


    A snap emanated from Siegfried. A few cultists approached, attaching various devices that resembled ALTR gear to Leon. Siegfried interacted with a few nearby devices.


    ¡°I was told you were a man of few words, but I¡¯ve yet to meet a tongue I couldn¡¯t loosen. You know, you¡¯ve proven quite the troublesome quarry, although. Countless of my faithful were crushed, maimed, etcetera. This has become a rather expensive job. They can only be replaced so quickly. I¡¯m left with a relative few, as the others scramble to clean up our mess. Hmm. Perhaps I¡¯ll enlighten you?¡±


    Back in Reina¡¯s basement room, a feed of burning stone showed in one corner of the monitors. The theater had been utterly reduced to rubble, collapsed inward, and now flames singed its remains. Reina-cat appeared laser focused on several various feeds. Dante tapped away, far quicker than usual, beside her. Griff¡¯s coat and hat lay in a corner of the room. At the same time, Celeste exited Dante¡¯s room, following Griff, who beckoned her to an opposite corner.


    ¡°Thanks, hun,¡± Celeste said. ¡°Let me know right away if her shoulder starts bleeding again. Finish wrapping her arm. She should be okay otherwise, for now.¡± She then moved to where Griff waited. ¡°What could possibly be important enough to interrupt me? And¡­¡± Her expression soured at the overwhelming odor exuding from Griff. ¡°¡­almighty, Griff, did you bathe in cologne?¡±


    ¡°Sorry ¡®bout that,¡± Griff said. ¡°But listen, Leon would¡¯ve only done what he did if he wasn¡¯t confident in escape. For him to send Yuna to me with that message. You know how he prepares. Well, over a decade ago, he roped me into agreeing to ¡®Horizon¡¯.¡±


    ¡°¡®Horizon¡¯? Would you just get to the point? You¡¯re assaulting my senses.¡± Celeste appeared agitated.


    ¡°The short of it, I¡¯m supposed to take you three out of town, far away.¡± Griff explained various steps, safe houses, and more had long been setup by Leon in advance. ¡°Leon must¡¯ve thought you¡¯d all be in danger and¡ª.¡±


    ¡°That it? No.¡± Celeste walked away.


    Griff slouched with an exasperated sigh. ¡°Fucking.¡± He shook his head. ¡°Knew it¡¯d turn out like this. Hope you¡¯re not dead you bastard. I¡¯ve got enough ghosts haunting me.¡± He patted his clothes, searching for his cigarettes.


    Meanwhile, in Dante¡¯s room, Aelfric finished wrapping a bandage around Yuna¡¯s forearm. She sat still, in a tank top, on the bed. Her eyes were closed. He appeared abnormal, a nervous twitch to his movements.


    Here I am, Aelfric thought. This¡¯ the best time. How do I say it, though? I didn¡¯t think of how to broach the subject. He stood and carefully peaked under the blood-soaked bandage on her shoulder. He grazed her skin a little. What the? Why¡¯s her skin so hot? He reached to touch it, but held his hand aloft.


    Damnit. Fuck. Fuck, Yuna thought. I¡¯m so weak. I made so many fucking mistakes. God fucking damnit. Her breath quickened. Has Pops been holding back all along? I was fucking useless. Why¡¯d he do that¡­ Fuck! My bloods fucking boiling! God damnit Pops! She stood, knocking Aelfric aside without noticing, then strode over and punched a hole into a desk. Please be okay¡­


    Aelfric had staggered for only a split second as he watched Yuna. They were close to the same height.


    ¡°Yuna, I¡¯m unable to tell you how, but I know Siegfried¡¯s most probable location,¡± Aelfric said, his typical demeanor returned.


    ¡°What did you just say?¡± Yuna turned in fury. ¡°Who the fuck¡¯re you? Wait. Ain¡¯t you that guy always helping Mom? Al? Alff?¡±


    ¡°Alphonse. Yes.¡±


    ¡°Did I really hear you, right?¡± Yuna moved to Aelfric in a flash, grasping his collar. He gave no reaction. ¡°Real bad time for a fucking joke, Alf.¡± Her rage appeared to temper at the lack of reaction from Aelfric.


    ¡°I assure you, I do not make jests. It¡¯s understandable you would not believe me. However.¡± Aelfric, unflinching, explained his involvement in Reina¡¯s restoration. Albeit, he obfuscated the story some, claiming he¡¯d been hired, despite that making little sense. I wont give her time to think. ¡°Please understand. I¡¯m well aware of your temper. I¡¯m currently not at liberty to divulge more, nor how I obtained Siegfried¡¯s whereabouts, or my own goals and purposes prior to now. I can only say that eliminating Siegfried is of paramount importance to me.¡± Yuna relinquished her grip and withdrew in thought.


    ¡°Elf.¡±


    ¡°Pardon?¡±


    ¡°I think I heard ¡®elf¡¯ that night. ¡®Alphonse?¡¯¡± Yuna looked at Aelfric.


    ¡°My real name is Aelfric. You likely heard a loudmouth subordinate.¡±


    ¡°Fine. Let¡¯s say you¡¯re not full of shit. What else can you tell me about this Siegfried bastard?¡±


    ¡°Despite how careful he operates, he has displayed some impatience. I fear your father could already be under interrogation.¡±


    Yuna paced around in a circle briefly, glancing at Aelfric, then stopped. ¡°If you know me, at least a little, which I don¡¯t have time to think about how; you understand I¡¯ll literally claw your heart from your chest if you¡¯re fucking with me, right?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m aware.¡± Aelfric had remained stoic throughout the entire conversation.


    My head¡¯s clearing, Yuna thought. Was a chaotic mess. I¡¯m not cooling down anytime soon. I¡¯ll chance it. Redemption.


    ¡°Fuck it. Let¡¯s go.¡±


    ¡°To be upfront, I currently lack a means of transportation to our destination.¡±


    ¡°Follow.¡± Yuna strode out of the room.


    At the same time, Celeste stood at the exit to the hall.


    ¡°Just grabbing a few things. Sure you don¡¯t want anything, hun?¡± Celeste asked.


    ¡°I¡¯m good, really,¡± Dante said.


    ¡°Back soon.¡± Celeste left.


    Griff patted himself down in a corner as Yuna entered Reina¡¯s area. She spotted Griff¡¯s coat, then dug out a pair of keys and tossed them to Aelfric. She moved to the Aegis station on the wall. A minute later, the suit covered her toe to shoulder. She strode to Dante, placing a heavy hand on his shoulder to gain his attention. He turned in confusion.


    ¡°Dante. Do me a favor and make sure Reina checks her messages in thirty minutes,¡± Yuna said.


    ¡°Uh, sure? You¡­¡± Dante glanced up and down the Aegis suit. ¡°¡­leaving?¡±


    ¡°You turned out to be a decent mistake.¡± Yuna gave Dante a playful light slap on the cheek. ¡°Thanks.¡± She left the room, and Aelfric followed.


    ¡°Uh. What?¡±


    Yuna and Aelfric made their way through the basement hallways. Near the stairs to the courtyard, Val held a box at her chest while issuing commands via her IRIS. She only noticed Yuna once they were mere steps away.


    ¡°Yuna? How¡¯re you doing?¡± Val asked. Yuna locked an intense gaze with her. ¡°Suit? What¡¯re you¡ª?¡± Yuna interrupted Val with a long, passionate kiss. As Aelfric slipped by, the box tumbled to the ground with a light thump. Val appeared stunned as their lips separated. Yuna followed Aelfric up the stairs.

 Chapter 27 - Calmly Enter the Stage

    Around ten minutes after Yuna and Aelfric left Vyxora, he drove while they sat in silence. She had a peculiar daze to her demeanor. A light drizzle fell while he navigated the early morning Lyrsium streets with incredible efficiency.


    This¡¯ so strange, Yuna thought. Why¡ª? How am I so calm? My heart¡¯s beating as fast as I can ever remember; I can literally feel my blood coursing. My skin¡¯s on fire, even with the suit¡¯s cooling. Yet, I¡¯m calm? Me? Is it nerves? I did pussy out saying anything to Val¡­but?


    Fifteen minutes later, they sat in the car parked on the side of a street. Several buildings in various stages of repair or reconstruction surrounded them. Aelfric gained the attention of Yuna as he pointed at a theater they had parked quite a distance away from.


    ¡°I had the area looked into while driving here,¡± Aelfric said. ¡°It¡¯s a large revitalization project with budget issues that¡¯s been stalled and it¡¯s unlikely to be resolved any time soon.¡±


    ¡°A theater? Really?¡± Yuna said. ¡°Just in case there¡¯s no misunderstanding here, I¡¯ll still fucking flay you if this is bullshit.¡± She glared at Aelfric. He gestured with a single upright index finger. Her face twitched.


    ¡°While I cannot guarantee Siegfried is here, please view this footage. Apologies for the low quality, I assume you¡¯re aware of their obfuscation tech. This is an air-gapped camera recording.¡± Aelfric handed Yuna a holographic tablet. A video compilation played of several cultists entering or exiting the theater, albeit only ever one at a time.


    ¡°That¡¯s one of those cunts alright.¡±


    ¡°Is this adequate for us to proceed?¡±


    ¡°Yeah, but give me five.¡±


    ¡°Understood. I must excuse myself briefly as well.¡± Aelfric exited the vehicle in stealth, disappearing into an alley.


    ¡°Weird guy.¡± Yuna exhaled. ¡°I¡¯m sure they won¡¯t be happy.¡± She contemplated for a moment, focusing on the heat of her skin. She looked at the theater. Pops. I¡¯m not ready for you to croak. Heh. Oh shit. I think I get it. This sensation. The last time I felt so calm, yet boiling rage at the same time¡­when you found me. I¡¯ve always bragged about being a little badass that day. But that wasn¡¯t it, was it? Fear doesn¡¯t feel like the right word for it. You¡¯ve always said ¡®instinct¡¯ - and I thought I knew what you meant. Trusting them. But this is different. Maybe you knew all along? This is understanding. They know my potential for death against that creepy fuck. But my rage is greater. The only thing holding it in check¡­ fucking hell, you¡¯re gonna be smug if I admit this after I save you. Let¡¯s get this message over with.


    A few minutes later, Aelfric entered the car in stealth. Yuna now had her helmet equipped. He wore a dark gray Aegis suit, helmet retracted. She looked over at him.


    ¡°You plannin¡¯ on joining in on the fun?¡± Yuna asked. ¡°Don¡¯t expect me to help you, ever. And don¡¯t get in my way. Can you even fight?¡±


    ¡°I possess capabilities similar to your own,¡± Aelfric said.


    Yuna chuckled. ¡°Any other time, I¡¯d make you regret saying that.¡±


    ¡°It would be ideal if we could communicate, should the need arise.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m good.¡± Yuna exited the car and stretched while bouncing on her feet. Aelfric¡¯s helmet equipped while he exited. He looked at Yuna, whose helmet had retracted again. ¡°Good luck.¡± She waved before dashing into a full sprint. He pursued her.


    Failure is not an option, Aelfric thought. This will be difficult, but I¡¯ve studied her movements. I¡¯ll put that knowledge to use. Hopefully.


    Meanwhile, Griff drove through the streets of Lyrsium. Celeste sat in the passenger seat with a medkit in lap and Reina-bird on her shoulder.


    ¡°We¡¯re almost in range,¡± Reina said. ¡°Huh? Yuna sent a voice message? She¡¯d been ignoring me!¡±


    ¡°We¡¯d have been there already if Celeste hadn¡¯t insisted on driving first,¡± Griff grumbled.


    ¡°Oh hush, you know the saying, ¡®like riding a bike¡¯,¡± Celeste said. ¡°Didn¡¯t think I¡¯d forgotten so much¡­and I apologized already.¡±


    ¡°Yeah, well, apologize to the poor sap you almost ran over. Don¡¯t gotta worry about that with a bike.¡±


    ¡°I wasn¡¯t that close, you old grump.¡±


    ¡°Yuna,¡± Reina whimpered, a few sobs emanated from her bird before cutting out. Celeste snatched the bird from her shoulder before bringing it to her eye-line.


    ¡°Hun? What¡¯s wrong? Did I just hear cryin¡¯?¡± Celeste asked.


    ¡°I¡¯m fine. Sorry.¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t you dare lie to me now.¡±


    ¡°No, really. Yuna just caught me off-guard with her message. She said some things not like her. And¡­¡±


    ¡°And what?¡±


    It feels wrong to withhold her message to Mama, Reina thought. But I can¡¯t risk it.


    ¡°¡®I¡¯m sure you¡¯ll find your way here. Just in case any others come along, make sure you all stay far from the fight. This is going to require my everything¡¯ - is a message from Yuna.¡±


    A bittersweet grin crept along Celeste¡¯s lips. ¡°When¡¯d that troublesome daughter finally mature a little? I¡¯ve worried for so long she¡¯d never temper it. Leon, though¡­¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m not stupid enough to mix it up with some monstrosity capable of taking out Leon, but I sure as shit ain¡¯t doing nothin¡¯, either,¡± Griff said.


    ¡°Is that what had you bawlin¡¯, hun?¡±


    ¡°I wasn¡¯t¡ª! Nevermind that. We¡¯re close.¡± Reina hopped a one-eighty, peering out the windshield. ¡°Should see Griff¡¯s car any second. Please, let me recon the area before you two do anything.¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry, Reina, hun. I know it¡¯s hard to picture, but we were mercenaries under your father once upon a time. We know how to gauge a battlefield. For that girl to say that, we have to respect the situation and cast aside any personal feelings in our approach. If you weren¡¯t this little thing, you can bet I¡¯d be locking you in the trunk.¡±


    ¡°Oh. Uhm. Sorry.¡±


    ¡°Ain¡¯t nothing to apologize for. Just be quick.¡±


    Griff pulled up alongside his car and hopped out. He swiftly opened the trunk and dug inside, making quite a bit of noise. Reina flew out the window and scanned the area. Celeste approached Griff, medkit in hand. He then pulled out an enormous sniper rifle he had assembled.


    ¡°Mind grabbin¡¯ the ammo? This sonuvabitch is heavier than I remember.¡± Griff trembled under the weight of the gun.


    ¡°Somehow, I¡¯m not surprised. But did you think I wouldn¡¯t notice? Are you going to be okay?¡± Celeste pointed at Griff¡¯s eyes.


    ¡°Figured you¡¯d notice. Only surprised you didn¡¯t say anything sooner. We ain¡¯t got time for a lecture, though. I¡¯m going even if I wasn¡¯t okay.¡±


    Celeste sighed. ¡°Why you think I insisted? How haven¡¯t you changed after so many years?¡±


    ¡°Hey now, this is a relapse, I¡¯ll have you know.¡±


    Celeste grabbed the ammo box, underestimating its weight at first. ¡°That¡¯s not the great defense you think it is.¡±


    Reina hovered above. Wish I could just remote into Yuna¡¯s suit, but what if I distracted her for even a second? There! She flew down to the others. ¡°I see an obvious busted entrance at that theater.¡± She noticed the sniper. ¡°The hell is that?¡±


    Meanwhile, Yuna entered the main auditorium of the theater, dual axe transarms in hand. Bright lights illuminated the stage. The ambient light revealed much of the area in mid-restoration process. An unpleasant scent of cleaning chemicals mixed with something else drifted into her nose. Stained plastic sheets surrounded the stage. The whirl of machinery echoed as Siegfried rose from beneath the stage. Several cultists stood around the room and upper floors, statuesque. He had his usual digital face, but it appeared slightly distorted. He caught a dagger between his fingers.


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    ¡°Interrupted before I even speak?¡± Siegfried said, unmistakable agitation in his tone. ¡°I¡¯m rather unpleasant when my work¡¯s interrupted, Yuna. Rude little guttersnipe, hreiwick.¡±


    ¡°Where is he, you piece of metallic shit?¡± Yuna roared. It looked as if invisible hands held her back, her body twitched. ¡°I¡¯ll fucking find whatever flesh you have left and rend sinew from sinew.¡±


    ¡°Oh? Perhaps we have something in common. Leon¡¯s proven quite troublesome to break. He¡¯s really gotten on my nerves, to be honest with you. But fortune favors the bold! Perhaps the daughter he, temporarily¡ª,¡± Siegfried laughed mockingly in a strange emotionless tone, ¡°saved; will loosen his tongue?¡±


    Siegfried discarded his coat, revealing a grotesque mix of metal, cybernetics and sparse flesh. Transarm rapiers emerged from his bulky metal forearms, sliding into his hands. A folded arm resided in his chest, with a cavity next to it.


    ¡°I already know you,¡± Siegfried mocked with a grin. ¡°I won¡¯t be holding back this time. If we take too long, old Leon will incur brain damage. Well, more damage, to be precise.¡±


    Yuna unleashed a primal roar of unbridled fury from deep within while sprinting full speed forward. She leapt onto the stage and charged Siegfried, transarm axes in hand. At the same time, Aelfric soared from above with a transarm claymore bearing down on Siegfried. Siegfried pulled back one arm, then thrust it at an almost imperceptible speed toward Yuna. The rapier point glided past her face, leaving a shallow cut. She had preemptively dodged before the thrust itself. She then swung at the outstretched arm. Meanwhile, Siegfried had stepped just out of the trajectory of Aelfric¡¯s claymore; gravity proving too difficult for him to course correct. Siegfried¡¯s other rapier jabbed toward Aelfric¡¯s chest, where he deflected it with a wakizashi. The force caused him to land in an awkward manner, but he recovered quickly and retreated a few steps while guarding. As he pulled the claymore to rest on his shoulder and held the wakizashi to his chest, he glanced toward Yuna. Her axes connected with Siegfried¡¯s arm from opposing sides, however, they appeared to only penetrate the width of the Excalium edge. She quickly retracted the axes and withdrew a few steps.


    ¡°Someone else came along with you?¡± Siegfried calmly pulled back his arms. ¡°Who might you be? It¡¯s only proper to introduce oneself. I¡¯m sure you know my name.¡±


    ¡°Fuck! Cocksucker must be same shit as the suits,¡± Yuna said, ignoring the other two while glaring at the cuts she¡¯d made.


    ¡°Ael¡ª!¡± Aelfric yelled before stopping himself. Fool. Don¡¯t fall for his provocations.


    ¡°¡®Al¡¯..?¡± Siegfried asked.


    Sweat glistened on Yuna¡¯s flushed cheeks, even as her suit continued to cool the rest of her. Her eyes remained affixed on the slight damage she¡¯d dealt. She dashed forward, summoning every ounce of her strength into each stride, followed by the swing of her transarms. Her speed proved enough to cause Siegfried to guard, unlike their prior encounter. As they exchanged blows with Yuna on a continuous assault, Aelfric closed the distance. He made a powerful horizontal swing of his claymore at Siegfried¡¯s hip. For the first time, Siegfried stepped back. Yuna pressed the perceived advantage. However, her peripheral caught the familiar claymore. Siegfried capitalized on the minute distraction, even while delivering a riposte to Aelfric. The arm from his chest sprang forward, rapier in hand. Time slowed for Yuna as she watched the tip pierce her left eye. She leapt back, but the rapier plucked her eye from its socket. At the same time, Aelfric deflected the riposte with his wakizashi, but it unbalanced him. Siegfried delivered a powerful kick, sending Aelfric flying into some scaffolding, which then collapsed onto him.


    ¡°Fuck!¡± Yuna bellowed. She clenched her left eye as tight as possible as blood seeped through her fingers. Fuck, fuck, fuck, fuck!


    ¡°Ah. I got overzealous. That was a waste of a pretty eye.¡± Siegfried shook his head as he inspected the eyeball before flicking it away. ¡°How unfortunate. What distracted you, though, my dear? Are you not allies?¡±


    Yuna continued to press a hand against her eye. She turned her head toward where Aelfric had landed. ¡°You motherfucker, you distracted me! You better fucking survive this. We have unfinished business!¡±


    ¡°¡®Unfinished business¡¯?¡± Siegfried looked as Aelfric used the claymore to emerge from the rubble. ¡°Oh¡­oh. Could it truly be? Yes. That weapon combo?¡±


    Meanwhile, opposite the stage on a balcony, Celeste pressed a cultist into the floor, holding its arm behind their back. The medkit and ammo lay nearby. Griff stood behind, appearing quite weary from carrying the sniper rifle. Reina fluttered past at the unmistakable roar-like cursing from Yuna.


    ¡°Libertas carnis!¡± The cultist¡¯s muffled cry rang out before falling limp.


    Reina saw Yuna¡¯s helmet equip. Finally, I can¡ª, She thought. No¡­ don¡¯t be an idiot. I¡¯ll only look. I won¡¯t tell her I¡¯m there.


    ¡°Pretty sure they¡¯re dead, Celeste,¡± Griff said. ¡°You can stop the armbar. Now, if you could, please grab your daughter before she reveals our position. This shot¡¯s gonna be a distraction at best if we¡¯re lucky. Lose that surprise, and I¡¯ve lugged this hunk of junk here for nothin¡¯.¡±


    ¡°Were you always this tiresome?¡± Celeste asked. She grabbed the hovering Reina, then sat behind the solid railing of the balcony.


    ¡°Yeah.¡± Griff laid the rifle down while sitting as well. He put a cigarette in his mouth and motioned as if to light it.


    ¡°The heck¡¯re you doing?¡±


    ¡°Just an old routine. Quiet.¡±


    Clear agitation swept across Celeste¡¯s expression. She may have clocked Griff were she not holding Reina. She shifted into peering over the railing, holding an inert Reina-bird in her hand alongside her own eye-line.


    ¡°What? Where am¡ª? Mama?¡± Reina-bird¡¯s head twitched about, stopping at Celeste. ¡°Mama! Yuna! She¡ª. She¡¯s lost an eye, and she¡¯s burning up! The suit¡¯s even struggling to cool her.¡± Celeste moved to stand, yet appeared to encounter significant invisible resistance. She inched upward until she felt Griff pull down onto her shoulder.


    ¡°C¡¯mon Celeste, you¡¯re too sharp for your memories to have faded,¡± Griff said. ¡°You know you can¡¯t intervene in such a battlefield. Not yet.¡±


    Celeste pushed herself back below the railing. ¡°Fuck.¡±


    ¡°Mama? I sent you her biometrics. What should we do? I don¡¯t¡­¡± Reina said.


    Celeste¡¯s gaze sharpened as she watched Yuna. ¡°I had to wait like this many times in the past. Waiting for your father to overcome odds not in his favor. It¡¯s a miserable sight we¡¯ve no choice but to endure until the end, whatever the outcome.¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry,¡± Griff said. He had set up the rifle and took aim at Siegfried. ¡°This fucking monster killed Tau. Took Leon. If Yuna fails, my last breath will ensure you get a chance to get her out. I swear it.¡±


    ¡°But you don¡¯t know Tau¡¯s¡ª!¡± Reina said. Celeste¡¯s thumb pressed against where Reina¡¯s voice emanated, muffling it.


    ¡°This¡¯ no place for wishful thinking, hun. I¡¯ll hear no more of it.¡±


    Muffled murmurs quieted from Celeste¡¯s thumb. ¡°Trust your sister, hun. Where¡¯d that unfaltering confidence in her go? She¡¯s always running hot. If I know our Yuna like I think I do, I can imagine the depth of her anger.¡±


    Celeste watched as Yuna closed the distance to Siegfried in an instant, wielding both axes in a flurry of strikes. Her movements fused into an imperceptible blur. She pressured Siegfried so much that he started defending with both arms. As seconds passed, they reached a stalemate.


    ¡°Look. Your father was right,¡± Celeste said. ¡°Emotions tend to get you killed on the battlefield. But our Yuna¡¯s a rare breed. Rage, true rage, focuses her. It¡¯s not compromising her. We have to wait for our own moments.¡± She removed her thumb. Reina made no sounds.


    Aelfric re-entered the fray, both weapons in hand. He wasted no time attempting to take advantage of Yuna¡¯s assault. They forced Siegfried onto the defensive entirely.


    ¡°So, any idea who the fuck the third wheel is?¡± Griff asked.


    ¡°Those weapons¡­it can¡¯t be?¡± Reina said.


    ¡°Weapons? Wait. What about Alphonse? Where¡¯s he?¡± Celeste asked.


    After several minutes of intense combat, Siegfried had started repositioning himself. He spoke multiple times, but the clang of metal drowned him out with ease. Their pressure on him grew as Aelfric synchronized his attacks more and more with the unrelenting rhythm Yuna had established. They both managed a few glancing blows to Siegfried. However, each paid the price with a rapier piercing into their suits. The wounds proved shallow, though, and the suits mended the holes. A few more minutes passed. Fatigue emerged in Yuna and Aelfric¡¯s movements. They exchanged a glance. Yuna made a slight nod up. They both delivered heavy deflections to attacks from Siegfried and a moment later, dashed inward, swapping their directions. They hard stopped at Siegfried¡¯s flanks, so much so their boots damaged the flooring.


    In a synchronous movement, Aelfric leapt while Yuna dived. A great deal played out in the following seconds. The lower half of Siegfried¡¯s arms opened. Aelfric¡¯s claymore cleaved into Siegfried¡¯s neck, but only a quarter. Thin mechanical arms rocketed out from Siegfried¡¯s arms, imperceptible to the naked eye. Yuna had both axes primed to cleave into Siegfried¡¯s leg, which she had damaged earlier that night. However, only one axe made contact. It penetrated far until the same leg weakly kicked Yuna away, sending her tumbling. Her other arm meanwhile had been severed entirely, lying on the ground near Siegfried, still clutching the axe. At the same time, Siegfried backhanded Aelfric, sending him flying while one of his legs fell to the ground. The thin arms hung, appearing frail while holding transarm katanas, now coated with Yuna and Aelfric¡¯s blood.


    Siegfried wobbled. Boom! A shot echoed. The auditorium amplified the sniper rifle firing tenfold, overshadowing any sound from the combatants. It hit Siegfried. It caused zero damage, however the kinetic force unsteadied him further. Boom. Another shot. He appeared to step forward in defiance. Another shot. He stared at Yuna, who had only been kicked a short distance away. That same leg wobbled, as if it would give way any second. Another shot. He leaned into it while brandishing a rapier. He thrust toward Yuna. Suddenly, Aelfric¡¯s wakizashi soared through the air into the jawline of Siegfried¡¯s head, piercing it and sending fragments flying. Some indiscernible fluids splattered out. Another shot. Siegfried reeled back. Meanwhile, Reina-bird had been jetting toward Siegfried.


    ¡°Move, Yuna!¡± Reina¡¯s voice resounded in Yuna¡¯s helmet to a deafening degree.


    The suit had already begun closing where Yuna¡¯s arm had been severed as she rolled a short distance away, leaving a trail of blood. As soon as Reina reached Siegfried¡¯s face, she exploded. The blast finally sent Siegfried backwards. Several more shots pierced the cloud of debris left by Reina-bird. With a loud crash, Siegfried fell. His weakened leg and the weight of the claymore caused him to land awkwardly, tilted. Barely a moment after hitting the ground, Yuna appeared overhead. Her entire body heaved in exhaustion, yet in her hand, she held her severed, clenched fist, which still held her other axe. She swung without hesitation into the claymore. Over and over. Cleaving it further and further. Fluids with a hint of blood splattered with each furious blow until she decapitated Siegfried. She continued to swing, driving the claymore into the floor. Celeste soon appeared and stopped her with little effort. Griff lagged a short distance behind, struggling to breathe. He stood over Siegfried¡¯s head, which appeared to flicker. Griff pulled out the wakizashi from Siegfried¡¯s jaw, then thrust it with all his might into the decapitated brain.


    ¡°Ain¡¯t¡­you ever¡­ seen a zombie flick?¡± Griff collapsed to the ground in sweaty exhaustion.

 Chapter 28 - Strange

    Several days had passed since Yuna killed Siegfried. She sat in Dante¡¯s ALTR within his room. She wore an eyepatch, a multitude of bandages, and her right sleeve lay empty. Dante interacted with the ALTR via his IRIS.


    ¡°You sure about this?¡± Dante asked. ¡°This thing¡¯s fully encrypted. I¡¯ve got no idea where you¡¯re headed.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s fine,¡± Yuna said.


    ¡°Malicious ALTR hardware¡¯s one of the easiest ways to kill people these days, you know.¡±


    ¡°They¡¯ve had better opportunities.¡±


    ¡°Uh, alright then?¡± Weirding me out how chill she¡¯s been. Tempted to say it out loud but¡­nah, not gonna risk it.


    ¡°It¡¯s almost time.¡±


    ¡°Alright, in you go. It¡¯d seriously torpedo my current situation if you died. So, ya know, please avoid that. Bail if shit¡¯s weird.¡±


    ¡°Your concern¡¯s touching.¡± Yuna had a slight grin. ¡°Asshole.¡±


    A short time later, Yuna stood on the moon as Aelfric had done many times in his meetings with Artemis. She looked around a bit before realizing her arm and eye were no longer missing.


    ¡°S¡¯pose that makes sense.¡± Yuna spotted Aelfric turning toward her, with Earth behind him.


    ¡°Thank you for accepting my invitation,¡± Aelfric said. ¡°Let¡¯s get something out of the way - I am not Aelfric.¡±


    ¡°Kinda figured. After all, ain¡¯t you a boss ¡®mistress¡¯?¡±


    Belle, Artemis thought. As Aelfric, she had a subtle grimace and the slightest shake of his head.


    Earlier that day, Yuna basked alone in the morning sun¡¯s warmth in the Vyxora courtyard. She had an empty stare where she so often dueled Leon. Belle approached Yuna¡¯s right side, wearing plain clothes, a mask, and a ball cap.


    ¡°Bit beat up, but you¡¯re definitely Yuna, right?¡± Belle asked.


    ¡°Mmm?¡± Yuna continued to stare.


    Belle leaned in. ¡°I¡¯m related to Aelfric,¡± she whispered. Yuna turned to meet her eye. The scent of perfume hung in the air. ¡°He¡¯s worst off than you it seems. All broken. It¡¯s a whole thing. Anyway. Rejoice, for today¡¯s the greatest day of your life.¡± Belle reached for Yuna¡¯s hand and placed a device in it, then closed it without resistance. ¡°One hour. Don¡¯t be late. You get to meet my mistress. But I¡¯ll be watching, so be a good girl. I expect politeness.¡± She gave Yuna a light pat on the head. Yuna shifted. In her mind, she had envisioned her arm thrusting upward, grabbing Belle by the throat. She relaxed, having remembered her missing arm. Belle turned and walked away.


    Back in ALTR, Artemis continued.


    ¡°Allow me to explain myself, quickly,¡± Artemis said. ¡°I¡¯ve appeared to you as Aelfric as proof of our association. He¡¯s unavailable, as his convalescence will take quite some time. You may refer to me as Diana, should you require a name. That is, of course, not my real name. May I inquire as to how you fare?¡±


    ¡°Not sure why you care? Def the worst I¡¯ve ever been, though. Hurt everywhere, but the phantom pains the shittiest part. Fucking sucks. Maybe I should just veg out in ALTR?¡± Yuna watched as she flexed her right arm.


    ¡°I can scarcely imagine.¡±


    ¡°So, what¡¯s the deal? You trying to call in a favor already? Pretty fuckin¡¯ impatient, don¡¯t ya think?¡±


    ¡°My subordinates urged I meet with you even earlier. There are several time-sensitive components involved. To be honest with you, I was a little worried you may decline, given your temperament.¡±


    ¡°Fucking hell my head hurts, even in here. Pretty sure I¡¯ve done more thinking in the last few days than my entire life. The ¡®real¡¯ Alphon¡­Aelfric, whatever, made it clear the info wasn¡¯t free, even if you wanted that monster dead, too.¡±


    ¡°Correct. However, I¡¯ve decided on a particular approach here. Your debt will be cleared if you merely listen to all I have to say.¡±


    ¡°Just ¡®listen¡¯? Bullshit. Even I¡¯m not that dumb.¡±


    ¡°Indeed. I know you¡¯re more intelligent than you give yourself credit for. Which is exactly why I¡¯ve chosen this approach. There¡¯s a role I desire for you to play. Perhaps you¡¯d simply agree as payment for said debt, along with several incentives I intend to offer. Yet, I too have done a great deal of thinking myself these last few days. I concluded coercion would be a foolish endeavor, for I need to be able to trust you, implicitly. Herein lies a significant obstacle. I can offer little for you to trust me, even though I¡¯ll need you to. I¡¯m gambling that my tactic will work. Which is, I¡¯ll never lie to you, but I will decline to share some information altogether. Questions?¡±


    ¡°Uh, yeah, you lost me. That felt like one of Reina¡¯s tangents where I only catch half¡­maybe.¡±


    ¡°My apologies. Allow me to demonstrate. I¡¯m sure you have questions. Ask.¡±


    ¡°Clear the air, huh? Alright, I¡¯ll bite. So you¡¯re behind the assassinations, right? Aelfric was the shooter?¡±


    ¡°Yes.¡± Artemis answered so fast that Yuna couldn¡¯t help but be stunned for a few moments.


    ¡°Why?¡±


    ¡°That is information I will not share. Best that you assume, I will never. And for the sake of brevity, I will respond ¡®no¡¯ to such inquiries, going forward.¡±


    ¡°Okay¡­you¡¯ve been spying on us since ¡®Aelfric¡¯ came to Vyxora, I¡¯m guessing?¡±


    ¡°Yes.¡±


    ¡°What was the point?¡±


    ¡°To determine how you managed to confront him. We wondered whether we had erred in some way. It was a surprise to learn your actions were merely based on Reina¡¯s theories.¡±


    ¡°Wait, you know that even? How?¡± Artemis explained Aelfric¡¯s spying methods and reports. ¡°God damn. Not sure how to feel about that¡­so you know a lot about us, then?¡±


    ¡°Yes.¡±


    ¡°What was your endgame of the spying?¡±


    ¡°Originally, elimination if you possessed sensitive information.¡±


    What¡¯s with this dude, er, lady? Yuna thought. She just admitted she planned to wipe us out like it was nothing. But she seems to kinda know me? How could she risk I wouldn¡¯t flip out? Fucking weird ¡®tactic¡¯.


    ¡°Who are you?¡± Yuna asked.


    ¡°No,¡± Artemis said.


    ¡°Right. Uhm¡­shit. I¡¯m suddenly drawing a blank. I should have a ton more questions, right?¡±


    ¡°It happens to the best of us. You may ask later. I would like to present my proposal now. Is that agreeable?¡±


    ¡°I guess?¡± Yuna shrugged, trying to grasp something on the tip of her tongue.


    ¡°To cut to the heart of the matter, I want you to¡ª.¡±


    ¡°Holy fuck!¡± Yuna interrupted. ¡°How the fuck did that slip my mind? You were behind Reina¡¯s abduction and ¡®recovery¡¯, right? Aelfric said so.¡±


    ¡°Yes.¡±


    ¡°But you just said killing us all off was on the table. How the fuck¡¯s that make any sense?¡±


    ¡°I sincerely apologize, but I cannot divulge my reasons. I can only assure you I meant what I wrote on the note - no strings attached.¡±


    Yuna stared blankly. She didn¡¯t just ¡®no¡¯ it? Th¡¯ fuck? Really wishing I¡¯d brought Reina.


    ¡°May I continue?¡± Artemis asked. Reading on Amazon or a pirate site? This novel is from Royal Road. Support the author by reading it there.


    ¡°Yeah¡­¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m certain you¡¯d rather I cut to the chase. I want you to take up the mantle of a new syndicate with the objective of conquering the entire Lyrsium underworld. Our reasons will not be shared, but I believe this role holds immense appeal to you. You will get to¡ª.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m in.¡±


    ¡°¡ªchallenge the greatest¡ª.¡± Artemis paused and stared at Yuna. ¡°Excuse me?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m in.¡± Yuna cracked her knuckles, albeit no actual cracking occurred. ¡°Oh, damn. I can¡¯t do this anymore.¡± She somberly gazed at her right hand.


    ¡°So I did not mishear you. I¡¯d prepared a great deal more to say and didn¡¯t even get to the incentives¡­¡±


    ¡°Gimme a sec, my thoughts are catching up.¡±


    ¡°May I inquire as to your reasons?¡± I knew she¡¯s unpredictable, but this¡¯ too easy, surely?


    ¡°There are multiple, I think, but you only need to know one. Some good ol¡¯ fashioned revenge. Heh, musta been instinct that spoke. My thoughts are clicking into place. You aware of what me and Pops do for the council?¡± Usually I¡¯d be all ragey already, guess I emptied the tank or something something ALTR. Can¡¯t remember ever thinking so clearly?


    ¡°To some degree, yes.¡±


    ¡°Good, I can skip to the point. One, maybe all of them, sold us out to that Siegfried cunt. They must have. Do you know what happened for Pops to get captured?¡±


    ¡°No.¡±


    ¡°Nice to know you¡¯re not all-seeing.¡± Yuna explained the trap they walked into that night in brief detail.


    ¡°Would I be correct in assuming there¡¯s a specific process and conditions in which you undertake these tasks?¡±


    ¡°Bingo. You get me, then?¡±


    ¡°Yes, it¡¯s quite plausible.¡± Good, she didn¡¯t merely speak on a whim. Her instincts spoke, but she must have been thinking about how they¡¯d fallen for Siegfried¡¯s trap for some time. She still accepted too readily, though. I must ensure her trust.


    ¡°Reina figures you must have some crazy resources, that true?¡±


    ¡°In short, yes.¡±


    ¡°Speaking of, it¡¯s weird talking to Aelfric when I know it¡¯s someone else. Even though I barely talked to the guy, I saw him around plenty. Mind changing to that business woman you talked to Reina as?¡±


    ¡°Very well.¡± Artemis¡¯ avatar changed moments later. She stared at Yuna with a blank expression. Wait¡­she tricked me? I suppose it means little. I won¡¯t acknowledge it.


    I def just tricked her. Isn¡¯t she going to acknowledge it? Yuna thought.


    ¡°I do not doubt your desire for revenge. If I may, though, I would still like to outline additional benefits to your employ.¡±


    ¡°¡®Employ¡¯ huh? Sure, go ahead.¡± Even if this is ALTR, she really ignored I tricked her. Unless she doesn¡¯t care? But wew, thought I screwed up speaking too soon. If Reina ever finds out¡­


    ¡°First, may I inquire as to how your father is?¡±


    ¡°Pops? Well, don¡¯t even know where to start. Pretty fucking bad. He¡¯s in a coma, some kinda spinal injury, other shit too¡­why?¡±


    ¡°We assumed if Leon were found alive, the damage would be severe. My subordinates have urged me to offer our assistance in his recovery in exchange for your compliance. However, as I stated prior, I¡¯m confident coercion or deception will backfire with you. Am I correct, Yuna?¡±


    ¡°Christ, you¡¯re fucking strange. Don¡¯t care for you knowing me so well, but yeah, I¡¯m feelin¡¯ pretty annoyed at the thought of that situation. Why the hell¡¯re you telling me this when you don¡¯t have to? How¡¯s this benefit you?¡±


    ¡°I must build a bond of trust with you within minutes, not years. It¡¯s vital that I give you no reason to doubt me, even while you will remain ignorant of my true intentions. I won¡¯t risk you changing course in the future. May I continue?¡±


    ¡°Yeah, sure¡­¡±


    ¡°Every incentive I¡¯d intended to use in convincing you to accept my proposal will still be offered.¡± Artemis explained in detail various benefits, including the best specialists money could buy for Leon, cybernetic replacements for Yuna, and more.


    ¡°That¡¯s, a lot. But this feels like the definition of ¡®too good to be true¡¯. I¡¯m questioning why you want me so bad? Am I missing something?¡± Fuck me, my confidence¡¯s taken a hit to say that.


    ¡°Fortunately, that¡¯s easy to answer. In fact, you¡¯re as close to ideal as possible, and I¡¯m confident in my assessment. There is a purity to ¡®Yuna Vyx¡¯. You appear to have little interest in monetary gain, material wealth, fame nor power over others. I¡¯ll not pretend to understand it, however, combat and all which that entails, especially your prowess, is you, ¡®Yuna¡¯. I¡¯ll admit the greatest concern to your effectiveness in this role would be your family and its importance to you. If you had no family, you would be perfect. After all, you¡¯re expendable in the context of the underworld¡¯s territorial dueling system. Another key factor.¡±


    ¡°Ah. Heads hurting listing to you, but I¡¯m getting enough. Something just clicked. So that¡¯s why you don¡¯t want Aelfric doing it?¡±


    ¡°Correct.¡±


    Yuna exhaled a deep sigh. I¡¯ve seen enough dramas to think there¡¯s still some catch here. But I can¡¯t see any suspicious angle with how open this nutjob¡¯s being. It feels so one sided though; she knows me to an irritating level, yet I still don¡¯t know jack shit about her. Could really use Reina¡­What would she say? Ask?


    ¡°Aelfric will handle the administration of the syndicate. We will only expect you to fight. There will still be monetary compensation, of course.¡±


    ¡°¡®I think they¡¯re after something we can¡¯t even guess right now. I don¡¯t have much to back up this hunch, though. Just all the pieces available to me are telling me it¡¯s not about the usual suspects of power or money.¡¯¡±


    ¡°Excuse me?¡±


    ¡°Reina. Said that. About you, technically.¡±


    Artemis blinked a few times with a blank expression. Her lip twitched as if suppressing a grin. ¡°Your sister¡¯s really quite formidable, isn¡¯t she?¡±


    ¡°Yep. So, she¡¯s right?¡±


    Artemis gave a slight nod.


    I can tell that¡¯s as far as she¡¯ll go, Yuna thought. Maybe she wants to lock us down? What if?


    ¡°Are those assassinations gonna continue at some point?¡± Yuna asked.


    ¡°Yes,¡± Artemis said. ¡°They won¡¯t occur on anything in your family¡¯s orbit, including the underworld altogether.¡±


    ¡°You won¡¯t tell me anything else though, if I ask, right? Like how?¡±


    ¡°Correct.¡±


    Okay¡­, Yuna thought. Really didn¡¯t expect her to be so open. Didn¡¯t even flinch. Feels like her tactic for me is working too well. Remember, Yuna, channel Reina.


    ¡°What¡¯re you gonna do if I said I¡¯ve changed my mind?¡±


    ¡°Nothing. While unfortunate, even with you aware of us, I¡¯ve given you no further comprising information. There¡¯s no harm to come from our conversation.¡±


    Cocky, ain¡¯t she? But even if I could remember everything she¡¯s said, probably true. I think I get now why Reina liked her. Too many extra words wasted on polite speech for my taste, yet there¡¯s no fat on ¡®em. Usually it¡¯d feel like I was being talked down to.


    ¡°What about your plan to ¡®conquer the underworld¡¯?¡± Yuna asked. ¡°Wouldn¡¯t me knowing be a threat?¡±


    ¡°We will abandon it without you,¡± Artemis said.


    Come on, seriously? Am I that bad at getting her to flinch or is she really not blowing smoke? Yuna paused. ¡°I¡¯m still in. What now?¡±


    ¡°We can iron details out at a later time. In the immediate, it would be ideal to devise a story for our medical team to analyze your father.¡±


    ¡°¡®Story¡¯? What, did you think I was gonna hide all this from my family?¡±


    ¡°They, especially Reina, would complicate your role.¡±


    ¡°Listen, even if I wanted to, I suck at lying. Reina would sniff me out and hound me.¡±


    ¡°I see.¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry about it. We¡¯re all stupidly honest with one another, most of the time. With how creepily well you know me, you must know that?¡±


    ¡°Several of Aelfric¡¯s reports were¡­curious, yes. Family tends not to look kindly upon motivations of revenge, however. Even if they¡¯re quite supportive of your proclivities.¡±


    ¡°True, never goes down well in dramas. I¡¯m still confident it won¡¯t be an issue. Trust me.¡±


    ¡°Very well.¡±


    ¡°So, is there like a contract or something?¡±


    ¡°No. As a sign of good faith, I will dispatch a medical investigator this evening to your residence. They will determine how best to proceed.¡±


    ¡°Already? That quick?¡±


    ¡°I would have preferred earlier, however, there was inherent risk approaching you so soon, as mentioned prior. It is in my best interest that your father recovers; the faster, the better. Ideally, you will feel indebted toward me, expediting our bond of trust.¡±


    ¡°Right¡­did you just say that out loud on accident? I do that sometimes.¡±


    ¡°No.¡±


    ¡°Uh-huh.¡± Yuna shook her head. ¡°I¡¯m gonna go make sure I didn¡¯t just dream this weird ass encounter. Do me a favor, though. Read the messages Reina sent that avy.¡± She gave a dismissive wave and disappeared.


    ¡°Messages?¡±


    A short while later, late morning, Yuna walked toward Reina¡¯s room in their home.


    Why do I feel lighter? Yuna thought. That weird agitation¡­itch in my skull¡¯s gone? I¡¯d forgotten about it the last few days, but it was back this morning. When did it start again? Feel like a bit after Reina got her new body. A jolt of searing pain rippled through her brain. ¡°Fuck, ouch.¡± Christ, I get it. Take a break from thinking. Nap time. Why you gotta be a cunt, head?


    Yuna entered Reina¡¯s room without a sound. Light from the hall briefly illuminated Reina¡¯s small silhouette beneath covers in the otherwise pitch-black darkness of the room. She lay on her side, her head barely poking out, facing opposite the door. As Yuna crept closer, she heard some peculiar sounds from Reina, however they were so muffled she questioned whether she actually heard them. She slipped into the bed under the covers, then wedged her left arm underneath Reina and swapped positions in an instant.


    ¡°Hey? What?¡± Reina said.


    ¡°Ah, my bad, did I wake you? Need a nap. Need favorite pillow.¡± Yuna snuggled with Reina, bringing her into her chest.


    ¡°Yuna? Well, it wouldn¡¯t be anyone else¡­ you could¡¯ve asked first. Jeez.¡±


    ¡°Thought I¡¯d be stealthy. Too awkward hugging my pillow from underneath, my bad.¡± Yuna breathed in Reina¡¯s scent.


    ¡°I wasn¡¯t asleep¡­but stop sniffing me, you freaking weirdo.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s calming. Can¡¯t believe I went years without it. Anyway. How the hell aren¡¯t you asleep yet? How many hours straight have you been up now?¡±


    ¡°Thhry-svn,¡± Reina grumbled.


    ¡°Thirty something? Do I need to knock you out, literally?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m fine! Just shush. Take your nap.¡±


    Yuna closed her eyes, then noticed a slight damp sensation on her arm. About the same time, Reina wrapped both of her arms around Yuna¡¯s, embracing it.


    ¡°Were, are you crying?¡± Yuna asked.


    ¡°What? No. Why would I be?¡± Reina snapped. She rubbed her face into the comforter.


    ¡°My brain¡¯s fried from thinking too much, so I¡¯m gonna be mean right now. I¡¯ve already got a hold of you; tell me, or else.¡± Yuna shifted her arm and hand.


    ¡°C¡¯mon, don¡¯t. It was just something in my eye.¡±


    Yuna felt the quickened heart beats of Reina. ¡°Nope. Surrender. Tell me what¡¯s wrong, or I can¡¯t nap.¡± She shifted further.


    Reina spun her entire body around, pressing her face into Yuna¡¯s chest. ¡°Fine!¡± She weakly punched Yuna over and over. ¡°God damnit!¡± Reina¡¯s hand tenderly climbed Yuna¡¯s cheek until reaching the eyepatch. ¡°It¡¯s my fault. I¡¯m so sorry Yuna. I¡¯m so sorry Papa. I¡¯m disgusted how long it took to sink in. It¡¯s my fault.¡±


    ¡°Uh, what is?¡±


    ¡°I just had to involve myself with the ¡®Sculptor¡¯ investigation.¡± Reina tempered sniffles as much as she could. ¡°Griff called¡­he confirmed the worst. That monster did take Tau. Poor Tau¡­he must¡¯ve been tortured¡­ revealed us. Even though it was only me behind their actions. He targeted Vyxora¡¯s leader, it only makes sense. If I hadn¡¯t¡ª.¡±


    ¡°Nonsense.¡± Yuna embraced Reina further. ¡°I¡¯m too fried to explain why. But total nonsense. Hear me? Go to sleep. We can¡­¡± Yuna yawned. The calming, rhythmic vibration of her heartbeat reverberated into Reina. Reina¡¯s eyes blinked heavy and slow as it lulled her, while Yuna¡¯s warmth enveloped her. ¡°¡­after.¡± The pair drifted into slumber.

 Chapter 29 - Abyss

    Later that evening, in the Vyx home, Celeste, Reina and Yuna sat at the dining table. Reina and Yuna appeared freshly showered. Yuna retold at length her meeting with ¡®Diana¡¯ whilst admitting she likely forgot parts. Celeste and Reina didn¡¯t interrupt, per Yuna¡¯s request. Once she finished, Reina sat in silence and Celeste paced around the table. After a few trips around, she smacked Yuna on the back of the head.


    ¡°The hell?¡± Yuna rubbed her head.


    ¡°You should¡¯ve come to us before accepting, foolish girl,¡± Celeste chastised.


    ¡°Did you fake pacing just to hit me?¡±


    ¡°Yes.¡± Celeste sat back down. ¡°Otherwise you would¡¯ve dodged.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s fair.¡± Yuna nodded and shrugged.


    ¡°No tantrum? Usually you¡¯d demand we spar, even though I¡¯ve never accepted.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m in a good mood. Woke up with a clear head, realized something. Plus, you two are reacting way better than I imagined so far.¡±


    ¡°And what¡¯s that?¡± Celeste had a clear agitation in her tone.


    Yuna quickly explained how she¡¯d felt restless the last month or so. The ¡®itch¡¯ in her skull. ¡°When I woke up and breathed in Reina, it hit me. I¡¯d lost my life¡¯s goal - to get Reina a new body. I lost it in a pretty unsatisfactory way, too, even if I couldn¡¯t be happier I can reach out and touch her now. With good ol¡¯ revenge in mind, though? The itch is gone.¡±


    Celeste sighed as she placed her face in both hands. ¡°I wish I could be happy you were being so introspective, but not when it¡¯s stupid fucking revenge.¡± Both Reina and Yuna looked at Celeste in surprise. ¡°It never works out!¡± She still hid her face.


    ¡°I know, and I know all the cliches about it from my shows. This¡¯ different though. For one, I¡¯m not consumed by it. Two, I¡¯m sure as hell not gonna die for it. Three¡ª.¡±


    Celeste slammed the table with both hands before standing up. ¡°God damnit. God fucking damnit.¡± Reina and Yuna watched in awe. Celeste turned her back to them. ¡°What¡¯s worst is¡­What¡¯s worst is¡­Fuck. I¡¯m a horrible mother. What¡¯s worst is I want to see those fucking council cocksuckers buried; It¡¯s one, or even all, of those motherfuckers. Your father, my Leon, has been cleaning up their messes for how long? And they betray him? I listen. I¡¯m no Reina or Griff, but I¡¯ve pieced together enough. They¡¯re the only ones capable of giving out those orders, and none of them have turned up dead yet.¡± She paused, then turned around. ¡°I¡¯m willing to bet he could¡¯ve escaped with you. But not only did he not want to risk your getaway, he probably realized that sick fuck was after the ¡®leader¡¯ of Vyxora. That bastard pulled the same shit on me once.¡± Her lip trembled, her eyes were glassy. She sat, head in hands, again. ¡°What kind of mother endorses revenge?¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s my fault, Mama,¡± Reina mumbled. ¡°It¡¯s my fault Papa¡­¡± She repeated what she had said to Yuna earlier.


    ¡°Ack, this nonsense again.¡± Yuna shook her head.


    As soon as Reina finished, Celeste got up so fast her chair toppled over. She placed both hands on Reina¡¯s shoulders and glared at her. Reina averted her gaze.


    ¡°Look at me, young lady,¡± Celeste demanded. Reina reluctantly met her gaze, her eyes glassy, suppressing tears. ¡°Don¡¯t you dare be so gods damned arrogant.¡± Reina¡¯s eyes widened. ¡°Hells, if anyone were to blame, it¡¯d be this ¡®Diana¡¯ woman. But that¡¯s not the point. You didn¡¯t dictate your father¡¯s actions. Nor Yuna¡¯s. And certainly not that sick fuck¡¯s. Everyone is responsible for their own actions; their own choices. I¡¯ll not deny things ain¡¯t that simple, yet it¡¯s ultimately still the truth. To think you¡¯re at the helm for others is hubris.¡± Celeste gauged Reina¡¯s state, their eyes dancing with one another. ¡°Am I understood?¡±


    Reina gave a solemn nod. Her gaze satisfied Celeste. Celeste returned to her chair, setting it upright before sitting again. Yuna watched Reina as her eyes seemed to dry while she slipped into thought. She looked at Celeste, who had a somber expression.


    ¡°Nice job, Mom,¡± Yuna said. ¡°Think you got through to the little punk. Thought I¡¯d reassured her that was nonsense earlier, but nope.¡±


    ¡°You didn¡¯t sign anything, right, hun?¡± Celeste asked. ¡°Or something binding?¡±


    ¡°Like I told you, there¡¯s not gonna be anything like that.¡±


    ¡°Then you can tell this ¡®Diana¡¯, no.¡±


    ¡°What? You just said all that junk about personal choices?¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s different.¡±


    ¡°How?¡±


    ¡°Listen, I¡¯m the leader of Vyxora with your father as he is. This is my decision.¡± Reina glanced up from thought for a moment.


    ¡°What¡¯s Vyxora got to do with this?¡±


    ¡°Damnit, Yuna.¡± Celeste hit the table. ¡°I can¡¯t¡­ I can¡¯t endorse this. Don¡¯t you get it? Even If I want to. Revenge never ends well. I¡¯d be a wretched mother to allow it.¡±


    ¡°Are you kidding me? I¡¯ve never felt closer to you!¡±


    ¡°What?¡± Celeste had a dumbfounded expression.


    ¡°You really were hiding that rage all this time. Hell, I¡¯m wondering if you cheated on Pops with a Hreiwim, then abandoned me.¡± Yuna spoke in a jokingly accusatory manner as she pointed at Celeste. She grinned as Celeste¡¯s demeanor relaxed.


    ¡°I think your father would¡¯ve noticed a baby belly.¡± They shared a chuckle. Celeste sighed. ¡°Hun, I hope you know, blood¡ª.¡±


    ¡°Mom. It was a joke. Well, kinda. But you don¡¯t need to say it. I know.¡±


    Celeste smiled. ¡°Maybe I should let the ¡®old¡¯ me leak out from time to time.¡±


    ¡°Ehh. I like knowing it¡¯s there, but I think it best to keep your anger in check.¡±


    ¡°You smart ass.¡± Celeste shook her head. ¡°I know Leon wouldn¡¯t like this, but not gonna abandon our parenting style now. Do you really trust this woman, though, hun? It¡¯s too good to be true.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ve been saying the same thing in my head. And it pisses me off to no end that this person I¡¯ve never met seems to understand me so well. Thing is, I do trust her. She¡¯s totally right that I probably would¡¯ve turned her down without all her so-called ¡®honesty¡¯. She said so she didn¡¯t need to.¡±This narrative has been unlawfully taken from Royal Road. If you see it on Amazon, please report it.


    ¡°You just said, though, that she knows you well. So couldn¡¯t that be viewed as her tricking you?¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s when my head started hurting while I was showering. But like, not demanding some kind of contract just made me trust her more. It goes round and round, as I recall more of what she said. I¡¯m being played, but she basically told me she was playing me. Which, again, makes me trust her more. So Irritating. I also don¡¯t really care what her true endgame is.¡±


    ¡°I do,¡± Reina said. The others turned to her in shock. ¡°I want to know why. So many whys. Why is she doing this at all? Why in the way she is? If she was just selling the technology, the first two assassinations would have probably been enough. She went to so much trouble to spy on us in such a way? She¡¯s behind my recovery? So many more¡­¡± Her eyes gleamed with intense curiosity.


    ¡°Ugh,¡± Celeste grumbled. ¡°I was putting off trying to process that¡­and ¡®Alphonse¡¯.¡± She shook her head.


    ¡°Sorry, Mama. There¡¯s no way you¡¯re okay with this. I¡¯m sure Papa wouldn¡¯t be either. But it¡¯s my decision. I have to know.¡±


    Celeste sighed. ¡°This ¡®Diana¡¯ outright told Yuna, though. She¡¯ll never reveal any of those things, hun.¡±


    ¡°Maybe she won¡¯t, but I might be able to figure them out, being closer. I don¡¯t know how to not sound dramatic, but she could literally change the world as we know it. Just like when A-day did.¡±


    ¡°Enough, you¡¯re gonna make my brain bleed.¡± Yuna rubbed her temples. ¡°Weren¡¯t you about to cry a second ago?¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s uhm¡­sorry. Not sure what just came over me.¡± Where¡¯d all that come from?


    Celeste gazed at Reina with a peculiar expression. Her eyes conveyed deep concern, yet her mouth formed a gentle, motherly smile. My Reina finally expressed desire about herself. Not Yuna. Not our family. Not Vyxora. Her. What she wants to do, for her own satisfaction. If only it weren¡¯t so gut-wrenching.


    Reina noticed Celeste. ¡°Why¡¯re you staring at me with that weird look, Mama? I can¡¯t tell.¡±


    Celeste dispersed her expression with a shake. ¡°Was just enjoying being able to watch you talk.¡±


    ¡°Okay?¡±


    ¡°I can get behind that,¡± Yuna said. ¡°Mom, have you noticed how she¡ª.¡± Yuna and Celeste broke into a passionate discussion of Reina¡¯s mannerisms and habits they¡¯d gleaned since her recovery. Reina¡¯s cheeks flushed more and more until she interrupted.


    ¡°Quit it! Stop talking like I¡¯m not even here. What¡¯s wrong with you two?¡± Reina then retaliated by pointing out a habit each of them had.


    ¡°I do that? Huh.¡± Celeste said.


    ¡°Val¡¯s pointed that out, but it¡¯s nice knowing you¡¯ve watched me enough to notice,¡± Yuna said.


    Reina deflated with a grumble.


    ¡°Anyway. That medical adviser should be here soon.¡±


    ¡°What ¡®medical adviser¡¯?¡± Celeste asked.


    ¡°Did I leave out that part? My bad.¡± Yuna explained about the adviser for Leon.


    ¡°Already? That¡¯s five minutes! Foolish girl!¡± Celeste jumped to her feet and headed toward the door. ¡°I¡¯m not gonna risk your father missing out on such an opportunity, but this discussion isn¡¯t over, ladies!¡± She left.


    ¡°Oh, damn. Didn¡¯t realize it got so late.¡±


    The next day, Yuna once again stood on the moon in ALTR, facing Artemis¡¯ ¡®Diana¡¯ avatar.


    ¡°The adviser determined most of Elias and Sophia¡¯s findings to be appropriate, but still conveyed some of their own opinions,¡± Artemis said. ¡°They are drafting a proposal as we speak.¡±


    ¡°Still pretty hard to accept there isn¡¯t more of a catch here,¡± Yuna said. ¡°Like, are you going to use Pops as leverage to force us to do stuff?¡±


    ¡°A fair concern. No. Additional equipment will be provided to improve your facilities. However, the adviser confirmed your resident engineers¡¯ existing infrastructure is enough. Furthermore, you¡¯ll be able to escort your father should outside faculties be prudent and granted unfettered access.¡±


    ¡°Mom asked the adviser how much he was charging. They answered without hesitation. And you¡¯re saying all that in addition? That¡¯s a crazy amount of creds. The adviser¡¯s fee alone was enough to make her wobble. Now, I¡¯m pretty fuckin¡¯ confident in my abilities, even if my pride¡¯s pretty hurt I wasn¡¯t able to solo that Siegfried fuck. But surely you could get some qualified merc or someone from the underworld at a fraction of the price?¡±


    ¡°This operation to control the Lyrsium underworld is merely a means to increase the success rate of our ends. It had actually been scrapped until Aelfric proposed you as the linchpin. As I stated prior, without you, it will be abandoned. You are the perfect candidate for this role, and we¡¯ve no interest in anyone else, ever. Do I need to reiterate why you are, again?¡±


    ¡°Nah. Though, it¡¯d be one thing if I was already doing a match like, tomorrow, and you were blowing all this cash. But you¡¯re gonna be throwing all those creds at Pops without any guarantee I don¡¯t back out if he suddenly makes a recovery?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m not worried.¡±


    Yuna shook her head. ¡°Fine. Moving on. She¡¯ll know if I don¡¯t say it.¡± She pointed at Artemis. ¡°¡®Diana. Know that if you pull some bullshit, whatever it is, you can kill me off and it won¡¯t matter. My spirit will drag you to hell.¡¯ - from my Mom, Celeste. Bit melodramatic. Little cringe.¡±


    ¡°I believe her from what Aelfric has told me. I can¡¯t rule out the possibility of a schism forming at some point. However, it¡¯s currently of no concern. I take it this means you¡¯ve already told your family everything?¡±


    ¡°Yep. Didn¡¯t my questions sound a bit intelligent for me? That was mostly Reina. She wanted to come along, but you¡¯ve got it locked to one entry. She¡¯s probably sulking right now.¡±


    ¡°I see. I think it best should we need to meet, it remains us. Aelfric will become your point of contact after he has sufficiently recovered, however.¡±


    ¡°Is that because I¡¯m dumb, easier to manipulate?¡±


    ¡°Intelligence comes in many forms. It¡¯s our foolish society that woefully misuses intellect. It would be fair to consider you a genius in the art of combat, for example.¡±


    ¡°Whoa. Not gonna pretend I fully understand what you mean, but sure as hell didn¡¯t expect you to reverse it into a compliment. Reina wanted me to ask a pointed question like that.¡±


    ¡°Which is exactly my reasoning for you remaining my sole contact point. I¡¯m confident your sister would attempt to pry past that which I¡¯ve already stated.¡±


    ¡°Goddamn. It¡¯s real fucking weird how well you know us.¡±


    ¡°My apologies. I¡¯ve no doubt it may be unsettling. You could say it is a facet of my own intellect.¡±


    ¡°Right¡­ Well, let¡¯s move on. You got a name for this new syndicate, yet?¡±


    ¡°We¡¯re not attached to anything in particular, if you have a preference. When the operation was first devised, ¡®Void¡¯ was the placeholder. Something simple.¡±


    ¡°Not bad. It¡¯s a bit edgy, maybe even cringe. Could argue our suggestion is too, though. We were thinking ¡®Abyss¡¯. Pretty similar. Not like the council¡¯s are much better anyway - Scions of Odin, Ronin, Spartans, etcetera.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ve no qualms. Accepted.¡±


    ¡°That quick?¡±


    ¡°Yes.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ve got some proposals from Reina, then.¡±


    ¡°So soon?¡±


    ¡°Yeah. She, uh, let¡¯s just say I expected a different reaction from her. Mom surprised me too.¡± Thought for sure Reina would push back on it. This is kinda like allying with your enemy, after all. She spent all that time. Ah. That reminds me. ¡°By the way, guessing you won¡¯t let me settle the score with Aelfric?¡±


    ¡°If you¡¯re referring to a physical duel, even non-lethal, no. He may allow ALTR, should he wish.¡±


    ¡°Figured. Damn. Where were we? Distracted myself.¡±


    ¡°Reina¡¯s ¡®proposals¡¯.¡±


    ¡°Right. So, she had a pretty good idea. We¡¯ll have The Legion vassalize under us, then Vyxora will submit to Abyss. This solves a bunch of junk for us. Dealing with them was gonna be a pain in the ass, whatever decision we made. Then, Vyxora will now be hidden and hopefully forgotten after some time passes. Abyss gets to start off with some manpower as vassals transfer over. It also won¡¯t be a as big a deal if I¡¯m found out to be Abyss¡¯ champion. There¡¯s some other stuff I¡¯m forgetting, too.¡±


    ¡°Accepted.¡±


    ¡°Seriously? Just like that?¡±


    ¡°Yes.¡±


    ¡°Aelfric will handle Legion, right?¡±


    ¡°Yes.¡±


    ¡°Uh, what was I gonna say next? I thought there¡¯d be more discussion.¡±


    ¡°I assumed Vyxora would remain independent, or disband. The proposal is quite a favorable alternative.¡±


    ¡°Cool, cool. Damn, I can¡¯t remember the other thing, or things? Can we meet same time again tomorrow?¡±


    ¡°Yes.¡±


    ¡°Wew. I¡¯ll get them as notes. Reina¡¯ll be bummed she can¡¯t come, but she actually predicted you might say no.¡± Least I remember this. ¡°Did you get a chance to check her messages?¡±


    ¡°No.¡±


    ¡°There¡¯ll be no hard feelings if you don¡¯t respond. She just wants to know you read them. She also assumes this is a long shot, but she wants to talk with you again at her cafe. With one important distinction, she swears if you do, she won¡¯t bring up anything related to our ¡®shared¡¯ history and present/future, uh, relationship?¡±


    ¡°Hmm.¡±


    Huh, she usually answers so quickly, Yuna thought.


    ¡°Do you believe she will remain true to her word?¡±


    ¡°She might let something slip, honestly. But I¡¯m pretty sure she genuinely just enjoyed talking to you that night. Not that I remember what you talked about.¡±


    ¡°I will consider it. Is that all?¡±


    ¡°Do I get any credit for tricking you into confirming you were that lady?¡±


    Artemis disappeared. Yuna¡¯s mouth fell agape.

 Chapter 30 - F* RL

    On the busiest streets of Lyrsium, self-driving vehicles ferried their passengers in a seamless, efficient manner to their respective destinations. In a rather luxurious such car, Celeste sat on a backseat facing a young man in a suit along with a woman around her age next to him. Celeste wore chic business-wear, as did the woman opposite her.


    I always thought Dante might be exaggerating about Priscilla, Celeste thought, but that piercing glare would make anyone uneasy. She glanced between Priscilla and Dante. Poor boy can¡¯t stop fidgeting, so out of his element. Meanwhile, her rather stunning beauty is ruined by that permanent scowl. No, Celeste. Don¡¯t. Keep quiet. This is not the time to risk making waves. Control yourself.


    Dante looked quite uncomfortable in more ways than one. He scratched at his freshly trimmed beard, poked his slicked neat hair and feigned ignorance of Priscilla¡¯s oppressive gaze. Priscilla sat with impeccably straight posture while watching Dante¡¯s every movement. A brief time later, the car stopped, and both doors opened onto a sidewalk.


    ¡°We have arrived at your destination. Please exit at your leisure. Traveling in comfort and luxury is always a quick call away. Stylin¡¯ thanks you for your continued patronage, Mrs. Aurelius,¡± a woman¡¯s voice said.


    Dante hurried out, with Celeste and then Priscilla following. Dusk had set in. They stood in front of a sizable nondescript building, appearing to lack any clear indication of its purpose. Skyscrapers of various heights towered over them on the moderately bustling street. Dante exhaled, as if he¡¯d been holding his breath.


    Ahh, Dante thought. Suffocating in there. Damnit, this sucks so much. Fuck RL. The hell possessed me to do this again? Feeling nauseous. Can barely think¡­


    Several days earlier, Dante entered his room in the Vyxora basement while shaking his head, mumbling. He started dismantling his ALTR as Yuna appeared in the doorway. She held Reina-cat by the belly at her chest with her one arm. She almost bumped into the frame nearest her missing eye, stopping herself just in time, and furthering the agitation on her face.


    ¡°Come fucking on Dante, why¡¯re you being a little bitch about this?¡± Yuna asked. She noticed him dismantling the ALTR. ¡°Wait, you¡¯re seriously gonna leave?¡±


    ¡°No way I¡¯m doing it,¡± Dante said. ¡°You said I gotta go if no, so I¡¯m going, alright?¡±


    ¡°I could just force you, you ungrateful¡ª.¡±


    ¡°Shush up, Yuna,¡± Reina interrupted. ¡°Dante, where would you even go?¡± Dante¡¯s movements slowed. ¡°You have no idea, right?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ll, uh, figure something out,¡± Dante said.


    ¡°Despite what Yuna said, Mama would never condone kicking you out for saying no. So, stop.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s¡­no. Doesn¡¯t matter. Who knows what Yuna would do to me when you¡¯re not looking?¡±


    ¡°She won¡¯t, right, Yuna? Swear to him.¡±


    ¡°I can¡¯t do that,¡± Yuna said. ¡°I can see myself burning up just at the sight of the fucker, like I am right now. All he¡¯s gotta do is play a bit of pretend, big fuckin¡¯ deal. Who knows how long this could drag out?¡±


    Dante stopped and stood, turning to them. ¡°I¡¯m sorry, really, I am. But don¡¯t you get it? My mother¡¯s a master manipulator. She must think I¡¯m close with you all, which is why she¡¯s even making this offer. She¡¯s confident you¡¯ll accept.¡±


    ¡°Well, no shit. Why wouldn¡¯t we? Otherwise she¡¯s going to drag out the whole thing as long as she can.¡±


    ¡°Please, Dante,¡± Reina said. ¡°We can¡¯t afford to be mired in the council¡¯s bureaucracy.¡±


    ¡°You two just don¡¯t get it, having Celeste for a mom,¡± Dante lamented. ¡°My mother¡¯s still my mother, you know? I¡¯m not confident I¡¯d be able to fend off all her whispers. Even if I can, I really can¡¯t overstate her ability to manipulate others.¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re just gonna be a figurehead, though, man,¡± Yuna said.


    Maybe Dante¡¯s worries are justified, but Priscilla¡¯s threat is too valid, Reina thought. Without her approval, she can appeal the merger since we¡¯re reforming into Abyss. I don¡¯t want¡ª. No. I can¡¯t have us starting off on such unstable ground. How can I convince him?


    ¡°Yeah, and she¡¯d use that to influence others, I guarantee,¡± Dante said.


    ¡°Like how?¡± Yuna asked. Dante explained imagined scenarios of his mother crafting a coup.


    ¡°Dante,¡± Reina interrupted them. ¡°I¡¯ll heal ¡®The Ultimate Trials¡¯ - as many hours as it takes.¡±


    Dante¡¯s mouth fell agape. ¡°Fine, damn you, I¡¯ll do it. Just remember, if she brainwashes me, and I betray you, it¡¯s your fault.¡±


    Oh right, Reina knows how to easily manipulate me, Dante thought. Celeste placed on a hand on his shoulder, snapping him back to the sidewalk.


    ¡°You gonna be alright, hun?¡± Celeste asked. ¡°Remember, I¡¯ll handle all the talkin¡¯. Just put on a brave face.¡±


    Dante willed himself to appear composed as he met Celeste¡¯s gaze, to which she gave a slight nod and smile. Just get it over with, man. Reina¡¯s heals are worth it. We¡¯ll finally get a ¡®Worldbreaker¡¯. Celeste and Dante moved toward the building.


    ¡°Hold,¡± Priscilla said. Celeste and Dante turned to her. ¡°You.¡± She looked at Dante with a piercing glare. ¡°Do you even know the names of the council members?¡±


    ¡°Uhh¡­¡± Dante mumbled.


    ¡°I¡¯ll not have you shame us, even if this woman will be speaking. They each sit in a gaudy throne-esque chair adorned with culturally relevant symbols to their respective syndicates. From left to right; Thanasius - Spartans, Erdem - The Horde, Jaromir - Templars of Lyrsium, Akane - Ronin, and Freya - Scions of Odin. Repeat.¡±


    Dante recited back the council, albeit with a few awkward pauses. Priscilla gave a slight acknowledging nod, to which they entered the building. The interior appeared as plain and nondescript as the exterior, with a singular receptionist behind a desk.


    Fuucckk, Dante thought. I thought I might be able to handle her death stares better after being away, but nope. Thank fuck I didn¡¯t mess up. With how she can be, and how Celeste can be¡­yikes.


    A brief time passed until after a security checkpoint, the trio found themselves in an immense warehouse-like room. Row upon row of ALTR chairs were setup. A few technicians hurried about between empty and occasionally filled chairs. A dozen security guards patrolled the area. The trio¡¯s guide brought them to a mini waiting area on the edge of the ALTRs. Following the guide¡¯s instructions, they took a seat and witnessed several people being escorted to the ALTRs. Soon, a disheveled man approached them, to which they stood. He gestured in the air, interacting with an interface in his IRIS.


    If I knew we were meeting in ALTR, I wouldn¡¯t have been so nervous, wew, Dante thought.


    ¡°Welcome, I¡¯m Ted,¡± Ted said. ¡°As two of you are new, I¡¯ll have to go through the spiel.¡± He sighed. ¡°The council members are busy individuals, so they like to do meetings in large batches, as you can see. Rule one. No. You can not meet the council in person. We are prioritizing security via our local ALTR Net and do not care for your reasons. You will be dealt with severely if you even ask.¡±


    ¡°What kind of fucking bullshit is this? Where are¡ª,¡± a man yelled from somewhere in the warehouse.


    ¡°How fortunate, a rule breaker. Please observe as that idiot in the distance is dragged off.¡± Ted gestured toward the source. Two guards dragged an unconscious man away. ¡°Getting blood off ALTRs is very troublesome. Do me a favor and don¡¯t be an asshole. Rule two.¡± Ted explained several more rules.


    Some time passed until Celeste, Dante and Priscilla stood in the ALTRscape of the council¡¯s chambers. Each looked exactly as they did outside of ALTR. They glanced around the extravagant room. It looked as if it had been ripped out from a palace. They sat in low chairs provided by attendants, while a podium stood in front of them. The council sat along a curved desk facing the trio. They appeared preoccupied with one another or navigating HUDs. As Priscilla had told Dante, their throne-esque chairs had notable decoration relevant to their syndicate¡¯s historical influences. Though in contrast, they wore varying levels of casual business ware.Unauthorized tale usage: if you spot this story on Amazon, report the violation.


    Thanasius had skin like leather on a sleek muscular frame, a thick beard, short brown hair and several scars across his face. Erdem had long black hair with gray streaks, thin facial hair and a bulky build. Joromir had a noticeably commanding presence, with a build similar to Leon¡¯s, sporting gray feathered hair and goatee. Akane had jet black tied up hair, sharp features and a piercing gaze. Freya had an athletic build, long auburn-blond hair, and a permanent scowl. She appeared younger by several decades than the others, who were in their fifties or older. Joromir took notice of Celeste and gestured to her.


    ¡°Approach,¡± Joromir said. The other council members turned their attention as Celeste stood at the podium. ¡°It¡¯s been quite some time, but I¡¯m not so old as to forget you, Celeste?¡±


    ¡°It has. Hello, Joromir, you¡¯re looking well.¡± Celeste appeared unfazed by the council¡¯s gaze. ¡°I¡¯m here today on behalf of Leon, and the Vyxora Syndicate.¡± She gave an acknowledging glance to each of the council. ¡°Greetings as well to Thanasius, Erdem, Akane, and Freya. My name is Celeste Vyx. I hope to resolve the matter at hand in an expedient manner and request your understanding should I be lacking in any formalities I¡¯m ignorant of.¡±


    ¡°Heh.¡± Joromir grinned. ¡°You were always one to set the tone. I see that hasn¡¯t changed. As I¡¯m familiar with Celeste, I¡¯ll take the lead. Any objections?¡± Joromir glanced to each side. The council members offered no reactions. ¡°Before we begin, I must ask, of course, where is Leon for such an important matter?¡±


    ¡°I shall spare you the details, but unfortunately, a genetic disease has at last reared its ugly head, incapacitating Leon. This is a primary factor in our decision, as his recovery is an unknown.¡±


    ¡°My condolences, Celeste. I was unaware.¡±


    ¡°Think nothing of it. You know how Leon is. That aside, we¡¯d like to prove one less headache for you all, as I¡¯m sure you¡¯ve had a long day. Through various circumstances, our family has become close to one Dante Aurelius.¡± Celeste turned and gestured to Dante for a moment. He had a surprisingly serious demeanor and expression, which caught her off guard for a moment.


    God damn, Dante thought. This place is so detailed. Wonder if it¡¯s a one-to-one recreation of a real room. Gotta be, right?


    Meanwhile, with the sun now set, Yuna patrolled outside Vyxora in her Aegis suit. At the same time, Val approached Reina¡¯s basement room in haste. She entered to see Reina¡¯s screens bustling with indecipherable activity. Countless windows were open with various administrative interfaces, code being actively changed, monitoring and more. A short, fit young man sat in Dante¡¯s usual spot, typing away in a flurry. He had a serious expression and fastidious demeanor. After Val¡¯s brief pause, she continued inward.


    ¡°Reina!¡± Val said. ¡°I just heard Yuna in her Aegis was spotted leaving? Of course, she¡¯s not responding to my calls.¡± Reina gave no reaction. ¡°Hello? Reina? What¡¯s going on?¡± Once Val reached Reina-cat, she looked closer at the screens. She¡¯s not ignoring me, bet she didn¡¯t even hear me. She moved to the young man and tapped his shoulder. He flinched. ¡°Lawrence, can you fill me in?¡±


    ¡°Val,¡± Lawrence said. He continued to type. ¡°Apologies, didn¡¯t hear you. We¡¯re swamped with attackers trying to break into our network. Reina¡¯s barely holding them off. Is this important? I¡¯m coordinating with the Nezins to support her.¡±


    This¡¯ serious if even the twins are helping, Val thought as she glanced at the Aegis station. No Yuna and it¡¯s gone, must have been her. What¡¯s that pain in the ass doing at a time like this? Well, not that she could help, but she¡¯s supposed to be fucking resting! Shit, whatever. Is there something I can do? Val dashed over to a terminal at the server wall. Let¡¯s see, I¡¯m nowhere near Reina¡¯s level, but I wonder¡­yup. As usual, she¡¯s way too nice for her own good. Time to go to sleep early, Vyxora. She tapped away for a bit. She continued to monitor the situation for around thirty minutes until Lawrence spoke.


    ¡°It¡­stopped?¡± Lawrence asked. ¡°Ms. Reina, you¡¯ve succeeded!¡±


    ¡°Of course she did.¡± Val approached.


    ¡°Wew, I¡¯m drenched in sweat,¡± Reina said, followed by a deep sigh of relief. ¡°Why¡¯s it so hot?¡±


    ¡°I could bring you a towel and cold compress, Ms. Reina?¡± Lawrence moved to stand.


    ¡°Down, boy.¡± Val gestured with one hand to Lawrence, who sulked, while patting Reina-cat on the head with her other. ¡°Great job, Reina.¡±


    ¡°Val?¡± Reina asked. Reina-cat turned to look up. ¡°How long¡¯ve you been here?¡±


    ¡°What¡¯s the situation? Did the attackers give up?¡±


    ¡°Oh. I¡¯ll have to review logs for a better picture, but after we managed to solidify our defensive measures, I launched a counterattack myself and they immediately stopped. They probably didn¡¯t want to risk any chance of me finding out who they might be.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s a relief. You¡¯re extra sweaty because of me, by the way. Did you even think about cutting everyone else off?¡±


    ¡°What do you mean?¡± Reina paused. ¡°Oh! The AC is off?¡±


    ¡°Christ, Reina. You¡¯ve really got to be more ruthless. I¡¯m glad you¡¯ll be able to hide behind ¡®Abyss¡¯ like you¡¯ve been hiding behind Leon. Don¡¯t even want to imagine how people would exploit that kindness.¡±


    ¡°Did you?¡±


    ¡°Yeah. I shut off everything but the absolute necessities. Do you understand what you should¡¯ve done?¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s enough, Val. I can¡¯t tolerate this disrespect any¡ª,¡± Lawrence declared as he stood.


    ¡°Shut the hell up, Lawrence.¡± Val glared, to which he sat back down. Val picked up Reina-cat by the underarms, bringing her to eye-line. ¡°Well?¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re right, Val,¡± Reina said. ¡°It should¡¯ve been the first thing I did after realizing the extent of the attack. I bet if I check the logs, the extra resources were critical. It didn¡¯t even occur to me. I¡¯m sor¡ª.¡±


    ¡°Stop. Remember the new rule.¡±


    Reina nodded. I can¡¯t be the type of person who says sorry so freely anymore. Not with the path we¡¯ve chosen. Remember that, damnit, Reina. Val lowered Reina-cat back down. Huh?


    ¡°Yuna¡¯s Aegis is gone?¡± Reina asked.


    ¡°Oh, fuck. That¡¯s why I was here in the first place. You wouldn¡¯t answer me, then Lawrence told me what was happening and there it went out of my mind. But you didn¡¯t know either? She was spotted leaving. She¡¯s supposed to be recovering, goddamnit!¡±


    ¡°She went out? Where?¡± Reina exclaimed.


    ¡°If I may interject,¡± Lawrence said. The other two turned to him. ¡°As usual, Yuna threatened me to not warn either of you until she¡¯d exited the building. My apologies. My sincerest apologies, Ms. Reina.¡± Lawrence bowed as low as he could while seated.


    ¡°We know how she is, Lawrence. Do you at least know why?¡± Val asked.


    ¡°Yes. Because there were several probing attacks throughout the day, along with Mrs. Celeste and Dante away, in Ms. Reina¡¯s predictive genius, she theorized of a grander intrusion attempt and possible physical incursions as well. To find Leon.¡±


    ¡°So, of course, once Reina was distracted, Yuna suited up and went patrolling.¡± Val sighed as she shook her head. ¡°Reina?¡±


    ¡°Damnit, Yuna,¡± Reina said. She had turned back and plugged into her terminal.


    ¡°While we don¡¯t get along,¡± Lawrence said, ¡°even I tried to dissuade her in her condition.¡±


    ¡°Such a pain in the ass,¡± Val said. A map appeared on a screen, showing Yuna¡¯s moving location. ¡°The hell? Where is she? She can¡¯t be moving through buildings that quick.¡±


    Reina breathed a sigh of relief. ¡°Accessing her visual shortly, thankfully she didn¡¯t block me out.¡±


    ¡°Or just forgot.¡±


    ¡°Mm.¡± A visual feed of of rapid movement through a narrow underground tunnel displayed. Some shadowed figures appeared further ahead. ¡°Yuna! What¡¯s going on?¡±


    The feed shook violently for a second. ¡°Holy fuck, that you, Reina? Startled me,¡± Yuna said. ¡°Found some rats, like you guessed. ¡®Sup with you?¡±


    ¡°We can see that! You¡¯re underground?¡±


    ¡°Ah. Yeah.¡±


    ¡°The fuck¡¯re you thinking, Yuna?¡± Val yelled. ¡°You just had surgery yesterday, you godsdamnned idiot!¡±


    ¡°Christ, my ears, Val! It seemed like a good chance to test it. I got one of them, musta missed their vitals, damnit. My depth perception¡¯s def fucked. Gonna take some getting used to.¡±


    Lawrence looked away in nausea as the feed moved through several twists and turns. ¡°Watch out! There¡¯s an alcove!¡± He yelled before cupping his mouth. The map switched to one displaying maintenance tunnels and sewer systems of the surrounding area.


    ¡°Yuna, care¡ª!¡± Reina shouted.


    The feed showed Yuna turning around a corner. A transarm katana wielded by her rose just in time to deflect a transarm tanto blade to her side. The tunnel had opened into a slightly larger area. One tall assailant carried another over their shoulder further down back into the tunnel proper in the feed¡¯s peripheral. Yuna, meanwhile, had turned toward the assailant who had failed in their ambush and quickly retreated a short distance away. They wore a sleek combat suit designed for stealth. They peered past Yuna as they took a defensive stance.


    ¡°Nice try,¡± Yuna said as she lunged forward with the katana.


    The assailant parried with ease, despite the length advantage of the katana. Yuna wasted no time following up with a further series of stabs. However, they were parried one after another. Grunts and growls emanated from Yuna as each deflection preceded a swifter follow-up attack. The assailant remained defensive all the while, offering no reprisals. Then, as they stepped into a parry, throwing Yuna slightly off-balance, a minor explosion preempted smoke filling the feed.


    ¡°Oh, come fucking on!¡± Yuna said. The feed showed Yuna bend forward some as her hand, still gripping the katana, came to her temple. ¡°D¨¦j¨¤ vu.¡±


    ¡°Yuna? Are you alright?¡± Reina asked.


    ¡°Yeah¡­¡± Yuna sighed as she glanced to her right side while smoke dissipated some. ¡°Just annoyed I thought my trick was actually working.¡± The suit arm held a katana stationery at her side. ¡°They were on the defensive the entire time, so¡­but I should¡¯ve known better. Everyone knows the Shinobi are little bitches who only engage when winning is all but guaranteed. Arghhh. Of course ninja cosplayers would have smoke bombs, too.¡±


    ¡°But your eye, Yuna! How could you risk fighting like that?¡± Reina said.


    ¡°Getting pretty used to it already act¡ª.¡±


    ¡°You reckless fucking idiot!¡± Val shouted. ¡°Why didn¡¯t you at least come get me?¡±


    ¡°My ears! Fuck, Val. You would¡¯ve said no. Better to ask for forgiveness.¡±


    Val sighed, then chuckled. ¡°That arm is pretty clever for you, though.¡±


    ¡°Right? I was already looking forward to bragging. Such a drag.¡±


    ¡°Just get home! Now!¡± Reina said. Damnit, how could I be so careless? I let my guard down with how calm Yuna¡¯s been.


    A brief time later, Celeste, Dante and Priscilla sat in the back of their car. The door opened on Priscilla¡¯s side. She slid to the edge of the seat and paused.


    ¡°You did well, Dante,¡± Priscilla said before exiting.


    ¡°Huh?¡± Dante glanced over as the door closed. The car started moving.


    ¡°What¡¯s with that face, hun?¡± Celeste asked. ¡°Lookin¡¯ like you got hit upside the head.¡±


    ¡°Kinda feels like I did. I can¡¯t remember my mother ever complimenting me¡­?¡±


    ¡°Really? The way you¡¯ve talked about her, I¡¯d prepared myself for a much more unpleasant person. Though, she¡¯s a mite hard to read.¡±


    Dante shook his head. ¡°Don¡¯t let how she¡¯s been today fool you. My mother¡¯s as calculating as they come. Her forcing today to happen is evidence enough.¡±


    ¡°I suppose I¡¯ll have to take you word for it, hun. You were mighty impressive at the meeting, though. I¡¯d starting fretting what to do at that point when Freya kept badgering for you to speak.¡±


    ¡°Heh, yeah. Surprised myself, too. Being in ALTR gave me plenty of bravado. I¡¯ve fought gods and monsters named Freya, after all.¡±


    Later that night, in Reina¡¯s room within the Vyx home, Val sat. The door opened. A freshly showered Reina entered as she dried her hair with a towel.


    ¡°Val?¡±

 Chapter 31 - Are you sure?

    A freshly showered Reina had entered her room to find Val seated on the edge of her bed, startling her.


    ¡°Hey,¡± Val said. ¡°Sorry for coming in uninvited.¡±


    Reina returned to drying her hair. ¡°It¡¯s fine. Is something wrong?¡±


    ¡°Not exactly. Mind if I bend your ear for a bit?¡±


    ¡°Sure?¡± Reina yawned, wobbling a bit.


    Val gestured for Reina to sit near her on the bed. ¡°You look like you¡¯re about to fall over. Sit.¡±


    ¡°Okay.¡± Reina walked over and sat. ¡°Why¡¯re you grinning? Do I look weird or something?¡±


    ¡°Am I?¡± Val touched her mouth. ¡°I am? That¡¯s a bit¡­ I guess I can¡¯t help it. Seeing you able to take a shower after all these years.¡±


    ¡°Oh. It¡¯s still kinda surreal for me, too. Though it¡¯s a bit embarrassing Mama had the house fitted with bars all over, including the bathroom.¡±


    ¡°Heh. Yeah, I might¡¯ve helped. Sorry ¡®bout that.¡±


    ¡°You did? You could¡¯ve warned me, jeez.¡±


    ¡°Could get you a cane, instead?¡±


    ¡°That¡¯d make me feel even more like a granny. You see how I move.¡± They shared a chuckle.


    ¡°Alright, so.¡± Val took a deep breath. ¡°I¡¯m kind of overstepping my place here. And I don¡¯t know how you see me. Sure, we talk somewhat often, but it¡¯s mostly work stuff. We don¡¯t really share any interests. Then, there¡¯s my weird relationship with Yuna. Plus, I technically have no frame of reference, even. Siblings, you know, and¡ª.¡± You¡¯re rambling. Fuck. This¡¯ some embarrassing shit to say out loud. And now she¡¯s giving me a funny look.


    ¡°Val?¡±


    ¡°Look, I don¡¯t have any. Siblings, I mean. So I can¡¯t know for sure. But I can¡¯t help but see you as a little sister.¡±


    ¡°Oh? Uhm¡­¡±


    Shit, Val thought. It¡¯s one sided.


    ¡°I never really thought about it, but in hindsight, I¡¯ve probably seen you as an older sister for a long time? I mean, I feel like I go to you for advice, enough. I¡¯ve worried too often even, but you¡¯ve never turned me away. Until Dante, you were the only one I could talk to about Yuna or Mama being well, you know. Papa to a much lesser extent, but still.¡±


    Val exhaled deeply. Shit, I¡¯m all tingly. My nerves. How long have I been suppressing wanting to know? Shameful gutter trash. A brief silence passed.


    ¡°Val? Was that, er, why you¡¯re here?¡±


    ¡°Huh? No. Ah. I haven¡¯t been making any weird expressions, have I?¡±


    ¡°Well, to be honest, you were kinda fidgeting. I usually see you as so cool. Serious yet laid back at the same time. Aloof, even. Sounds weird to say about the Val in my head, but you were cute, just now?¡±


    Val grabbed Reina by the shoulders and locked eyes with her. ¡°Please keep this between us?¡±


    Reina giggled. ¡°Sure.¡±


    Val withdrew and returned to her usual demeanor. ¡°That part didn¡¯t go as I¡¯d planned. With Celeste watching over Yuna, probably still lecturing her, this seemed like my best chance to talk privately. The sister thing was an excuse, kinda, to give you unsolicited advice. At the end of the day, you¡¯re my boss, after all. It¡¯s not right to approach a boss without being asked to. It was wrong of me to undermine you in front of Lawrence earlier. Sure, it¡¯s just Lawrence, but still. That kind of behavior can¡¯t be tolerated on the path you¡¯ve chosen for Vyxora.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m a little lost. You were right about lecturing me?¡±


    ¡°It doesn¡¯t matter if I was right. I don¡¯t know how things are gonna play out organizationally, but my grunts are already champing at the bit for expansion. Just like how you became the leader around here in almost everything but name, it could play out the same in ¡®Abyss¡¯.¡±


    ¡°What¡¯re you talking about?¡±


    ¡°Reina, I know you¡¯re not that dense. It¡¯s been years since anyone bothered to go to Leon for something.¡±


    ¡°I never meant for that to happen, though.¡±


    ¡°Oh, I know you didn¡¯t. Your drive to better Vyxora and keep us afloat combined with Leon being how he is, it just did. The point is, you¡¯re the boss. The boss can not have their authority questioned. That¡¯s never really been a problem here, because our residents and grunts either worship your family or fear it.¡±


    ¡°Hmm. Aelfric¡¯s going to be the ¡®boss¡¯, though.¡±


    ¡°And what, you¡¯re not going to interact with anyone else? Fat chance.¡±


    ¡°Hmm.¡±


    ¡°Hear me out, Reina. I appreciate your family¡¯s never pressured me about my past before Vyxora. That¡¯s part of what makes this place special. I also know probably nothing would stop Yuna from seeking revenge. And I¡¯m not trying to persuade you or anything, either. Vyxora isn¡¯t like other syndicates. I need to know you understand that. It¡¯s honestly so easy to forget we¡¯re criminals with how little crime we actually do. But I know how it is for others¡­because I did it all. Before here.¡± Val realized her gaze had drifted away from Reina. She looked apprehensively at Reina¡¯s expression. Accepting? Is that what that is? Don¡¯t look at me like that. You don¡¯t know what I¡¯ve really done.A case of literary theft: this tale is not rightfully on Amazon; if you see it, report the violation.


    Determination flashed in Val¡¯s eyes. ¡°Celeste and Yuna, well, Celeste, for sure, are probably worried about you like always. But not enough. Not this time, in my eyes. You¡¯re far too kind, Reina.¡± Without pausing, she continued. ¡°I can¡¯t remember a life before the gutter. I had no family. I pretended to be a boy and became a gofer for a gang to survive as early as I can remember.¡± Val locked eyes with Reina. ¡°I bounced from one to another. They¡¯d get swallowed up, and I¡¯d move on. I did whatever I had to.¡± Disgust permeated Val¡¯s expression and words as she described participating in robberies, assaults, drug trafficking, and more. She hinted at ¡®worst¡¯ trafficking, but then stopped mid-sentence. The pair had continued to look into one another¡¯s eyes. Why? Why isn¡¯t it changing? Fine. I¡¯ll make it. Her expression twisted further.


    ¡°Stop,¡± Reina said. ¡°I was trying to avoid getting Yuna in trouble, but please, I can tell it¡¯s hurting you to remember. You did what you had to. To survive.¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t like that justification.¡± Val averted her gaze.


    ¡°I know that, too. It¡¯s why Yuna told me¡­she wanted to understand. Understand why survival isn¡¯t enough.¡±


    ¡°But you. You never acted any different, despite knowing?¡± Val inched her gaze back to Reina again. ¡°How?¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s okay. It¡¯s different now.¡±


    A paralyzing shock reverberated throughout Val. I finally get it. I always thought she was leaving something out. But this is how, isn¡¯t it? This¡­acceptance, from Reina. It¡¯s how you ¡®became¡¯ Yuna.


    Did I handle that right? Reina thought. She fidgeted in face of the frozen Val. Mama always does this. She placed her frail hand over Val¡¯s.


    Val snapped back to reality. She felt a hint of wetness in her eyes. Don¡¯t you dare. She used every ounce of her willpower to prevent being overcome with emotion. Remember why you¡¯re here.


    ¡°Moving on,¡± Val said. ¡°The point I was trying to get at, Reina, is will you really be able to handle knowing what Abyss does? I¡¯m talking about outside of our primary goal. Anyone that gets swallowed up is going to want to continue their businesses. And the bigger it grows, the more activity we can¡¯t keep eyes on. I know the darker corners of this life and I worry¡ª.¡±


    ¡°That I don¡¯t have the stomach for it? You know I forced my way into assisting with Papa and Yuna¡¯s council contracts, right?¡±


    ¡°Yes, but that¡¯s different. Their targets are always someone part of the underworld. Will you really be able to turn a blind eye to Abyss grunts peddling drugs on a corner, robbing civs or worst? Credits are the underworld¡¯s lifeblood. The org will never last if we crack down even close to how Vyxora operates. We¡¯re closer to a neighborhood watch.¡±


    ¡°¡®You can only control your own actions.¡¯¡±


    ¡°What?¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s something Papa told me when I was little. Which he later regretted when I used it to involve myself in Vyxora. But it shaped my worldview. You¡¯re right that I wouldn¡¯t allow drugs and such if I could, but it¡¯s an individual¡¯s choice to take drugs. Vast majority of the time, at least. My point is, I can accept where individuals choose to involve themselves. Human trafficking is a different beast, but I have a feeling Aelfric will not allow that type of business.¡± Reina paused as she observed Val in thought. ¡°I hope I didn¡¯t dredge up¡ª?¡±


    ¡°Huh? What? About the drugs? No, you didn¡¯t. Sure, I don¡¯t like to remember how I came to Vyxora and especially how I met Yuna, but it was ironically that terrible choice that brought me here, too. Forgive me, Reina. I felt like with how your parent¡¯s parenting philosophy is, and Yuna, is, Yuna, that I had to say something to you. Maybe a ¡®turn back before it¡¯s too late¡¯, moment? I¡¯m sorry for looking down on you. Thinking you were more na?ve. Although, worrying about me being triggered or not still concerns me.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s nothing worth apologizing for, Val. If anything, thank you. Even though Mama went as far as going to the council herself, I think she might still try to convince at least me away from this path. You¡¯ve helped organize my thoughts better for when she does. And don¡¯t worry about my so-called ¡®kindness¡¯.¡± Reina grinned, to Val¡¯s surprise. ¡°I¡¯ve been thinking some too, how I should interact with Aelfric and Belle, maybe others.¡±


    ¡°¡®Hey, heal this hangnail for me?¡¯¡± Reina said in a lower imitating tone.


    ¡°Uhm, what?¡± Val asked.


    Reina giggled. She described a recent brief talk with Dante, where she had shared the concern of interacting with Abyss members should it arise. In the usual basement room, he offered his hand toward Reina-cat when saying the phrase she¡¯d repeated to Val.


    ¡°What¡¯re you talking about?¡± Reina asked.


    Dante withdrew back to his screen. ¡°You roleplay a healer in ALTR. But you don¡¯t go around trying to heal people IRL. So, what¡¯s another mask? Just pretend you¡¯re an aloof, serious broker. Don¡¯t you already do that with your current dealings? People wear all kinds of masks to fit the situation, just like switching roles in ALTR. You don¡¯t come back to IRL as the healer. No need to change yourself, merely another role swap.¡±


    Reina had a slight grin as she faced Val. ¡°It was clumsy ALTR-obsessed advice as usual, but helpful nonetheless. Maybe I¡¯ll change because of this path, but for now I¡¯m confident the Reina you know, isn¡¯t going to get in the way.¡±


    ¡°I see. Well, I¡¯ve underestimated you again. I think I¡¯ve embarrassed myself enough.¡± Val stood to leave. Reina stopped her with a weak tug at her arm.


    ¡°Wait.¡±


    Val looked down at Reina, who trembled. ¡°Are you okay?¡±


    ¡°Could I¡­Could I confide something in you, Val? I might regret it if I don¡¯t take this chance.¡±


    Val sat back down. ¡°What do you mean? I¡¯m listening.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ve only told Dante.¡±


    Something she hasn¡¯t shared with Celeste and Yuna? What could it be? Is she somehow even paler? Val thought.


    ¡°The truth is, I have blood on my hands.¡± Reina paused. After a little time, Val placed a hand over Reina¡¯s.


    ¡°Start from the beginning.¡±


    Reina nodded, her gaze affixed on her lap. ¡°I¡¯ve been concerned what would happen without the contracts from the council. We¡¯ve always known the Shinobi didn¡¯t like Papa being trusted so much and have been trying to push him out for a long time. So, I started a side hustle that¡¯s become very lucrative. I¡¯ve amassed quite a bit of a rainy day fund, to be honest. I couldn¡¯t tell my family for fear they¡¯d want to use it for a new body for me. It¡¯s too important for that. Although, that doesn¡¯t really matter anymore, obviously.¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re right, they would have.¡±


    ¡°Thanks. It¡¯s nicer to hear my justification validated for keeping it from them than I thought it¡¯d be.¡± Reina took a deep breath. ¡°Anyway. I leveraged connections while adding to my network, building a reputation for prime leads on jobs stealing from corpos exclusively. I made it very clear that I don¡¯t want bodies. Besides not wanting civs to get hurt, it is just genuinely bad for business. Then, one job was for an actual client, instead of a score to sell after. One of my usual teams became unavailable, and I had to rush to put together a new one. They knew the rules, but I didn¡¯t vet them enough¡­¡±


    Val grabbed Reina, pulling her into a warm embrace. ¡°It wasn¡¯t your fault.¡±


    Reina shook her head into Val¡¯s chest. Her voice fluctuated. ¡°It¡¯s different here. I¡¯ve assisted Papa and Yuna with the contracts, indirectly killing before. But the guards weren¡¯t part of this life. Truthfully, it¡¯s never really bothered me. Vyxora is all that matters. But¡­but.¡±


    Val started stroking Reina¡¯s hair. ¡°I shouldn¡¯t have said it wasn¡¯t your fault. Life isn¡¯t that simple.¡± Reina felt Val¡¯s heartbeat quicken. ¡°Some things¡­you just have to live with.¡± Reina felt a slight squeeze. ¡°That¡¯s why I have to ask again. Are you sure?¡±

 Chapter 32 - Traps

    Celeste, Dante, and Yuna, with Reina-sparrow on her shoulder, stood before a large building as dawn broke over Lyrsium. It resembled Vyxora in overall structure, except with countless boarded-up windows. The Vyxora apartment itself was only a short walk away. At the same time, atop the building in an office suite, stood Aelfric in a pitch-black Aegis suit without helmet. He paced casually near a round table. It had four chairs arranged around it, spaced out evenly. Belle¡¯s voice emanated from a device at its center.


    ¡°They¡¯re here.¡±


    ¡°Understood,¡± Aelfric said. A visual feed appeared in his IRIS, showing them enter the building. He froze at the sight of Celeste.


    The Vyx group made their way into the building. Vibrations at their feet and clear sounds of construction indicated activity below them. Most of the floor had boards closing it off, outside of a barren reception area. It funneled into a grouping of elevators, though only one appeared operational. They shuffled in. Dante melded into a corner, resting his eyes with a weary sigh. As it ascended, Yuna spoke.


    ¡°Whoa. D¨¦j¨¤ vu? Why?¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s the same elevator we have, hun,¡± Celeste said.


    ¡°Huh?¡±


    ¡°They were building this as a commercial space at the same time as our apartment. Same developers. They even tried to package it to us originally, but it was nowhere near as finished as ours.¡±


    ¡°Weird. Wonder why this¡¯ my first time hearing this?¡±


    ¡°It still had a high fence until recently. I believe it¡¯s passed through several hands, largely forgotten otherwise. Even I did.¡±


    ¡°Yes, several proposals never materialized,¡± Reina said. ¡°Outside of Vyxora, the surrounding area has only become less and less appealing to possible buyers. I¡¯m going through it all now. The property value just kept plummeting. Then¡­huh?¡±


    ¡°What is it, hun?¡±


    ¡°The shell company that I assume is Aelfric, bought it the day I notified him that you, Dante, and his mother would be speaking to the council.¡±


    ¡°Wasn¡¯t it possible the council were gonna deny us?¡± Yuna asked.


    ¡°Yes.¡±


    A sound indicated they reached the top floor as the doors opened. To their great surprise, Aelfric prostrated himself on the floor in front of them. His hands lay next to his forehead, which touched the ground.


    ¡°Finally!¡± Belle said. ¡°Someone stop this moron from doing whatever he¡¯s doing. His biometrics are spiking like crazy.¡±


    ¡°Celeste!¡± Aelfric said. ¡°I was unaware you would be attending. I beseech thee to listen for but a moment. I apologize for deceiving you. It pains me to have exploited your kindness as I did. However, I¡¯ll not beg forgiveness, for I do not regret my necessary actions.¡±


    ¡°Ugh. You embarrassing ass. Seriously, I can guess what the idiot is doing right now. Drag him to his feet if you have to. He¡¯s still recovering and can only move around because of the suit in the first place.¡±


    Celeste hurried over to Aelfric and pulled at him. She felt a tug of resistance, to which she signaled for Yuna to grab the other side. They lifted him to his feet while he stifled groans of pain. He kept his head downward once standing. Had Dante been paying attention, he would have seen a pained grimace upon Aelfric¡¯s face.


    ¡°Stabilizing¡­¡± Belle said. ¡°I should let you sit in pain, but you¡¯ve already shamed us enough.¡± Knew I should¡¯ve rushed cameras getting installed, I couldn¡¯t see him until now from the elevator one. Why must you always be so? ¡°Tired of this. Sit his dumbass down. I just hit him with pain meds, and he¡¯s gonna buckle any second.¡±


    Celeste initiated movement, to which Yuna followed suit until they lowered him into a chair. She gazed down at Aelfric right before his grimace relaxed into a light stupor. Yuna, meanwhile, crouched as she looked at his right leg, until eventually prodding it.


    ¡°Belle, is it?¡± Celeste asked. ¡°Has Alph¡ª.¡± She stopped herself. ¡°¡ªric, been giving you a hard time? Having to watch he doesn¡¯t overextend himself and perhaps even exercising?¡±


    ¡°Huh?¡± Belle said. Did I say my name? Well, who else would it be? ¡°Yes, how¡¯d you know?¡±


    ¡°I recognize that weary tone, and I have a fool of my own.¡± Celeste looked at Yuna.


    Belle sighed. ¡°He¡¯s been a huge pain in the ass.¡±


    ¡°I relate.¡±


    ¡°Hey Aelf, you get your new leg already?¡± Yuna asked. ¡°How is it? An entire cybernetic limb, I mean? Still waiting for the twins to stop fucking with mine.¡± She patted her left side. ¡°Got the eye, though. It¡¯s pretty much like having the HUD of the Aegis all the time. Was a bitch to sync with my IRIS, at first.¡± She looked up whilst presenting her eye.


    Aelfric¡¯s stupor evaporated. ¡°Intriguing. The leg is indeed a strange sensation. It moves as I will it, yet in such an unfamiliar way to that of muscle and bone. Have you been able to put your eye through extraneous paces? I¡¯ve tried to better calibrate but have been interrupted repeatedly.¡±


    ¡°Because you started coughing up blood, you stupid mother¡ª!¡± Belle yelled until her voice cut out.


    ¡°Yuna went looking for a fight the same day of her surgery,¡± Celeste said with a agitated tone. ¡°Foolish girl could¡¯ve gotten herself killed so impaired!¡±


    Yuna stood and started bickering with Celeste, while Aelfric made a dismissive comment toward Belle that caused the pair to argue as well. Meanwhile, Reina-sparrow had remained dormant, left on Dante¡¯s shoulder, who slept against the corner of the elevator still. She stirred amidst the arguing.


    ¡°Sorry, I got distracted¡ª,¡± Reina said. She stopped and glanced around until turning to Dante. ¡°Hey, what¡¯s happening?¡± She noticed his eyes were closed and pecked his cheek.


    ¡°I-I was only resting them,¡± Dante said as he awoke.


    Reina sighed. ¡°You stayed up even though I warned you, didn¡¯t you?¡±


    ¡°Maybe.¡±


    ¡°So you don¡¯t know what¡¯s going on?¡±


    ¡°I do not.¡± Dante noticed the bickering pairs. He staggered a little out of the elevator at Reina¡¯s behest.


    ¡°Gah!¡± Belle shrieked. I completely forgot that guy was in there.


    Belle had continued viewing the room via the elevator camera. Thus, Dante¡¯s sudden appearance in the peripheral startled her. Her sudden outburst had ceased the arguing. They all watched as Dante approached.


    Oh? Reina thought. Good, they weren¡¯t arguing about something important if they stopped that quick. In the brief silence, she quickly followed up. ¡°Aelfric, why¡¯d you purchase this building? And before Abyss¡¯ formation was even guaranteed?¡±


    ¡°Ahem,¡± Aelfric said. ¡°My apologies to all present for this aberrant beginning. Please, be seated so that we may begin in earnest. Anew.¡± He gestured to the table. ¡°I procured a portion of the refreshments for our construction workers, should you be so inclined.¡± He gestured to a table off to the side with coffee, bagels and the like. It¡¯s fortunate I mistakenly set a chair for Reina.


    Dante meandered over to the refreshment table while Celeste sat. Reina flew to Yuna¡¯s shoulder, who took the seat opposite Celeste.


    ¡°I will begin by answering your query, Reina,¡± Aelfric said. ¡°Forgive me for being presumptuous, but I am confident that you all would desire to remain at the Vyxora complex. Therefore, I obtained this nearby property to serve as Abyss¡¯ interim HQ. A data center is being constructed below as we speak, I¡¯m sure you heard upon entrance. You¡¯ll be able to tap directly into it, thanks to proximity. It will also house private ALTR servers. There are currently no plans to further renovate the building beyond the underground data center and first floor. This office suite was merely cleaned up to be presentable. Outside of it, floors are vacant. There is little reason for us to have a physical location otherwise. Once the servers are setup, all correspondence will be within ALTR for security purposes. Do you have questions or concerns?¡± The group sat in brief silence at the deluge of information.


    ¡°You¡¯re correct,¡± Celeste said. ¡°We¡¯ve no intention of leaving our residents behind. It¡¯s hard to deny this is ideal for us. However, your ¡®Diana¡¯ promised transparency within certain bounds. This building would constitute consulting us. Do you not think so?¡±


    Aelfric paused in thought. ¡°My apologies. Let it be known that my Lady was uninvolved, and this was of my own volition. I intend to seek Reina¡¯s advice on occasion, but I will be required to make unilateral decisions as Abyss¡¯ leader. I¡¯ll strive to notify you of relevant developments. Otherwise, I ask for your understanding.¡±


    ¡°Well, we¡¯re technically only ¡®Abyss¡¯ as of this morning, to be fair,¡± Reina said. ¡°Still. Why¡¯d you purchase this place when you did? Were you that confident? I sure wasn¡¯t.¡±


    ¡°I¡­¡± Aelfric¡¯s eyes darted to Celeste for a moment amidst an abnormal pause. ¡°Was not worried.¡±


    ¡°¡®Celeste will be attending?¡¯¡± Belle said. ¡°¡®Move forward with the HQ, Belle.¡¯ His words, when we found out. And he didn¡¯t think Celeste would be present at Abyss meetings. I¡¯m pretty sure he was afraid of running into her if he went to Vyxora to meet you. He kept bugging me that day to get it done. I wouldn¡¯t put it past him to have bought this place to avoid Celeste.¡±Support the author by searching for the original publication of this novel.


    Yuna laughed. ¡°You were around when Griff got decked, weren¡¯t you?¡± She chuckled. ¡°She can really hold a grudge, so avoidance is def best when you can. Should you really be letting your assistant blow up your spot like this, though?¡±


    ¡°I am not his assistant!¡± Belle yelled in fury. ¡°I¡¯m his sister and we work alongside one another under Ms. Diana!¡±


    ¡°Whoa. Okay. My bad. Settle down.¡±


    ¡°How dare you¡ª!¡± Belle¡¯s voice cut out when Aelfric tapped the device.


    ¡°I apologize for my sister¡¯s behavior.¡± Aelfric bowed his head. ¡°She can allow her emotions to get the better of her. Please forgive her rudeness.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry for my sister¡¯s behavior, too,¡± Reina said. ¡°Of all people, she should know better than to say ¡®settle down¡¯.¡± Yuna gave an acknowledging nod. Reina continued. ¡°Sorry, Belle, if you can hear me?¡±


    ¡°She can. Although, her own voice may be drowning it out. I intend to reflect on my own actions as well. Meanwhile, I¡¯d intended to give this at the close of our meeting. However.¡± Aelfric placed two small devices on the table. ¡°Here are almost all the dossiers and information I compiled while spying on you. A unique encryption key fob as well. Lady Diana advised I offer this if tensions seemed high, as they do at this juncture. Only irrelevant information has been redacted.¡± They stared at them for a moment.


    ¡°Yuna.¡± Celeste gestured. ¡°Dagger. I know you have it.¡±


    ¡°Weird to say this, but violence doesn¡¯t seem like the answer here, Mom?¡± Yuna asked.


    Celeste glared with another gesture. ¡°Give.¡±


    Yuna acquiesced, producing the dagger from somewhere before tossing it to Celeste. Who then caught and slammed its hilt into the storage device, shattering it. The others flinched for a second. Dante almost dropped a cup of coffee. Celeste receded back into her chair, placing the dagger calmly on the table. She turned to Aelfric, who had a bewildered expression.


    ¡°My feelings toward you are¡­very mixed, let¡¯s say.¡± Celeste had a tranquil expression. ¡°You infiltrated our home. Spied on us for months. With quite malicious intentions, I might add. Yet, in the end, even if it could be argued your side holds blame for that ¡®Siegfried¡¯ monster, you¡¯ve only aided us. I don¡¯t want to think about what could have transpired without you involving yourself. I even suspect you had to do some convincing.¡± Shock reverberated across Aelfric¡¯s face for a moment. ¡°All that aside, we¡¯ve agreed to this foolish path. I¡¯ve read enough dossiers in my time to know they¡¯re not flattering to the subject. We don¡¯t need that kind of drama.¡± She paused. ¡°Going forward, I¡¯ll be involved more than I ever have with Vyxora. I must watch over my daughters in place of Leon. So, please continue with your agenda. Will that be an issue, Aelfric?¡± Though she had an oppressive gaze, the tension in Aelfric¡¯s expression appeared to fade.


    ¡°Of course not,¡± Aelfric said in the closest thing to an eager tone, coming from him. He tapped Belle¡¯s device.


    ¡°¡ªso cool,¡± Belle whispered, almost inaudible. Her feed had zoomed in on Celeste, with the elevator doors kept open.


    ¡°Belle. Please start the presentation.¡± The faint clicks of a mechanical keyboard resounded.


    I finally get it, Belle thought. What El¡¯s told me. Never came through in the intel reports until now. She really did remind me of my Artemis.


    ¡°Belle?¡±


    ¡°Yeah, yeah, sec.¡±


    The lights of the room dimmed. A holographic projection appeared at the center of the table. Aelfric launched into explaining early stage preparation for Abyss. The unrelenting amount of detail visibly wore down Dante and Yuna as time passed until they were half-asleep, even with coffee. The other four conversed to some extent during Aelfric¡¯s talk. Light refilled the room, stirring Dante and Yuna.


    ¡°Alright, you two, enough dozing,¡± Celeste said.


    ¡°Wha?¡± Dante yawned. Yuna awoke in full, glancing somewhat nervously at Celeste.


    ¡°You¡¯re not in trouble.¡±


    Yuna breathed a sigh of relief. ¡°So, uh, miss anything important?¡±


    ¡°Why am I here, anyway? I only agreed to be a figurehead, or whatever.¡± Dante said.


    ¡°My apologies, Dante,¡± Aelfric said. ¡°In hindsight, I could¡¯ve confirmed this much earlier. I merely wanted to request you would handle all ALTR setup and connections for these three.¡±


    ¡°Sure, I guess. Can I go?¡±


    ¡°Hold on,¡± Celeste said. ¡°Are you pretending you didn¡¯t unnecessarily rile up Freya?¡±


    ¡°That? Uh¡­¡±


    ¡°The Scions of Odin have already begun encroaching on all former Legionnaire territory. Now, Abyss.¡± Reina said.


    ¡°Oh, shit. Are you saying that¡¯s my fault?¡±


    ¡°I believe they may be ¡®teasing¡¯ you,¡± Aelfric said. ¡°Odin has been pressuring the Legionnaires for several months. Celeste has recounted of your surprising behavior at the council meeting. Whether Freya is increasing activity because of Abyss¡¯ formation or you, both are quite beneficial. She¡¯s the only council member whose position is in jeopardy and has been desperate to expand and prove her place, which she inherited from her late husband. It¡¯s likely why she was so aggressive toward us at the meeting. You did well and have my thanks.¡±


    ¡°Not sure I follow, but you¡¯re welcome?¡±


    Yuna laughed. ¡°This wet noodle sure becomes something else in ALTR. Wish I could¡¯ve seen it.¡±


    ¡°And risk you challenging Freya on the spot? No way,¡± Reina said. Yuna gave Reina-bird a playful light push.


    ¡°Speaking of, I will have to deliver some news our subjugated Legionnaires will not like,¡± Aelfric said. ¡°Would you be interested in attending, Dante?¡±


    ¡°Hard fucking pass,¡± Dante said.


    ¡°Told you,¡± Celeste said to Aelfric.


    ¡°It¡¯s no issue. Let¡¯s circle back to said news later. I¡¯d like to discuss the incursions on Vyxora,¡± Aelfric said.


    Reina and Yuna recounted the attacks on Vyxora the day of the council meeting.


    ¡°I see. Thoughts on further?¡± Aelfric asked.


    ¡°Wish I knew,¡± Reina said. ¡°We know they must¡¯ve been after Papa¡ª, ahem, Leon. As expected, they left no traces.¡±


    ¡°We can certainly assume it was the Shinobi,¡± Celeste said. ¡°What really bugs me, though, is how no one on the council acted strangely. I thought for sure there¡¯d be something to pick up on. Especially Akane. But, albeit expected, only Joromir contacted me after. He¡¯s the reason we¡¯ve been able to exist as we have so long and showed genuine concern for Leon.¡±


    ¡°Correct me if I¡¯m wrong. A primary motivation for you agreeing to this arrangement was revenge, Celeste?¡± Aelfric asked. ¡°Will this be an issue?¡±


    ¡°No.¡± Celeste paused. ¡°I can¡¯t swear that won¡¯t change, but, outside of abandoning Lyrsium, there¡¯s really not another choice in the end. I may have allowed my daughters to sway me at first with emotion, but I¡¯ve had plenty of time to think. The Shinobi¡¯s attack only confirms what we thought we knew. They were complicit in the trap for Leon and Yuna. Yuna nor us would have the sway necessary, but they surely know Leon could tell Joromir, and he would at least listen. Whether or not the Ronin and Akane are also guilty, it could create a schism in the council. I¡¯ve no idea if Joromir would protect us, regardless of him and Leon¡¯s history, but I do know he would not tolerate such a betrayal. Heads would roll, literally. It¡¯s us, or them.¡± I know if you were awake and able, you¡¯d probably spirit us all away. But we¡¯ve got a bloodthirsty daughter, and a knowledge-obsessed daughter. They¡¯d just find trouble elsewhere. I¡¯ll beg forgiveness when you awake, my lion.


    Mama¡­, Reina thought.


    Mom¡­, Yuna thought.


    ¡°I understand, thank you. Please let me know how we can bolster your security. Belle will also assist on the cybersecurity end. The resources our data center will add should prove invaluable. Moving on. Our first objective is goading the Scions of Odin into challenging us.¡±


    ¡°A big fish off the bat? Sweet,¡± Yuna said. ¡°I¡¯m good to go whenever.¡±


    ¡°Except you¡¯re not,¡± Reina chastised.


    ¡°You don¡¯t even have your arm yet, hun. Don¡¯t even think about acting brashly,¡± Celeste chastised.


    ¡°Yuna, I¡¯m aware of your eagerness, but you will get your duels in time,¡± Aelfric said. ¡°I request you exercise patience.¡±


    ¡°Okay, goddamn. I didn¡¯t mean right now,¡± Yuna said.


    ¡°You did,¡± Dante said. Yuna shot him a glare, to which he shifted awkwardly. ¡°Oops. Said that aloud¡­did you just try to punch me with your left?¡± Yuna kicked under the table toward Dante, but he had preemptively lifted his legs.


    ¡°You¡­¡±


    ¡°Yuna,¡± Celeste said.


    ¡°Please allow Reina to explain, Yuna,¡± Aelfric said. ¡°Reina?¡±


    ¡°We didn¡¯t have much reason to know this before,¡± Reina said. ¡°But I¡¯ve been researching it, and almost all challenges to council members are rejected. The aggressor¡¯s territory must be bordering a member for one, which prevents most from even trying. Furthermore, they must have the capacity and capability to take over the territory they¡¯re challenging. There¡¯s several other but those are the main two. These don¡¯t matter if the council member is the challenger, of course. Thing is, defending syndicates have significant advantages. There¡¯s the larger cut of the gambling and, more importantly, being able to dictate harsher terms. Plus, there¡¯s the general balance to maintain within the council. This is likely why Freya hadn¡¯t tried.¡±


    ¡°She has had her sights on the Legionnaires for a while, our research indicates. Their activities are heavily restricted during the transition and Freya has seized the opportunity to muscle in on several locations.¡±


    ¡°So, if I¡¯m following correctly,¡± Celeste said, ¡°you think she¡¯s trying to get Abyss to declare on Odin soon as they can? Could say she¡¯s setting a trap.¡±


    ¡°Precisely. Well intuited, Celeste.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m lost,¡± Yuna said. ¡°If she¡¯s been waiting, how¡¯re we gonna get her to declare on us instead?¡±


    ¡°Remember the Immortals?¡± Reina asked.


    ¡°No?¡±


    Reina sighed, then quickly recapped Yuna on the duel they had provided security for.


    ¡°Oh, yeah, so?¡± Yuna asked.


    ¡°They were just a puppet of Odin, basically. So she hasn¡¯t really been waiting. From what I¡¯ve dug up, what Aelfric said is very true. Freya¡¯s desperate to solidify her position.¡±


    ¡°Freya is clever,¡± Aelfric said. ¡°She wanted to sow that there would be discord between us from the beginning. Hence antagonizing us at the meeting. Our assumption is she would use this to convince the council members to accept a challenge from us, so that Odin may put us down.¡±


    ¡°Wait,¡± Dante said. ¡°I¡¯ve only been half-listening, but doesn¡¯t that mean I played into it?¡±


    ¡°Sure, but if our theory holds true, and the evidence indicates it has, it emboldened her to act even sooner. So, thank you, again.¡±


    ¡°Right¡­¡±


    ¡°We either challenge, or she approaches us and we submit willingly. That¡¯s my guess on her plan of action,¡± Reina said.


    ¡°Could we maybe get to the point? I¡¯m getting a headache,¡± Yuna said.


    ¡°Apologies,¡± Aelfric said. ¡°Reina and I have determined our best course of action is allowing Odin to chip away at Abyss with little to no resistance. Instead of challenging to reclaim our territory, we will appear as if we are acceding it in an attempt to appease them. Ideally, we will appear so weak and fearful that Freya¡¯s impatience will override the boons of a being the defending party.¡±


    ¡°A trap we can only use because we¡¯re new,¡± Reina said.


    ¡°Coulda just said that without all the extra shit, goddamn,¡± Yuna groaned.


    ¡°Hush, hun,¡± Celeste said. ¡°I would¡¯ve prodded further, anyway. And if you hadn¡¯t understood their reasoning, you might¡¯ve become a right pain in the ass.¡±


    ¡°I¡ª.¡± Damnit, mom¡¯s right, I would¡¯ve bitched. Annoying. ¡°Fine. The hell am I gonna be doing until game day, then?¡±


    ¡°We will be training. In ALTR.¡±


    ¡°You daring to say I can¡¯t crush whoever Odin puts out?¡± Yuna glared. Aelfric appeared wholly unfazed.


    ¡°Evidence suggests there¡¯s a high probability it would be, Freya. While her combat ability is somewhat unknown at this time, I have no concern over your triumph. I merely intend to sharpen you further.¡±


    ¡°Well, alright, I¡¯m def up for a rematch. Has to be ALTR, though?¡±


    ¡°I intend no offense - you are expendable. I am not. The Siegfried fight greatly jeopardized my physical condition. A mistake I will not repeat. Were you to perish, Abyss would be scrapped, but our true goals would remain unhindered. I¡¯m too integral to my Lady¡¯s plans and must remain capable until they reach fruition.¡±


    ¡°Oh, shut up, El,¡± Belle said. ¡°Get off your high horse, she¡¯d still have me.¡±


    Aelfric pressed the mute button again. ¡°This is an inappropriate time for your jests, Belle.¡± Celeste and Yuna exchanged glances. They had both intended to speak before Belle did.


    ¡°Aelfric,¡± Celeste said. ¡°I believe your Diana conveyed ¡®expendable¡¯. We understand. But I¡¯d advise you to refrain from using the term. It will damage our confidence in this partnership.¡±


    Aelfric paused in thought. ¡°I understand. Let me expand further on my reasoning, please. What I said is entirely true. However. I¡¯m operating on the belief that this endeavor is of the utmost importance to the success of my Lady¡¯s goals. Therefore, Yuna is simultaneously indispensable in my eyes. It does not work without her. And so, I will give my all in refining her prowess to heights unimagined.¡±


    Yuna exchanged a peculiar glance with Celeste. ¡°Alright, that¡¯s¡­okay, I guess?¡± A brief silence followed.


    ¡°I gotta circle back,¡± Dante said. ¡°Aelfric, you¡¯re seriously gonna ask my family to let this shit happen? Good fucking luck.¡±


    ¡°Oh, yeah, what about them?¡±


    Aelfric stood. ¡°I will not ask.¡±

 Chapter 33 - Cool

    A train raced along twisting tracks and tunnels in a picturesque mountain valley under the sun¡¯s warm glow. Aelfric and Yuna stood atop the train facing one another, wearing Aegis suits. Yuna broke into a full sprint toward Aelfric as he stood still. She leapt with a flying right kick toward his head. He sidestepped only a little as he caught her at the ankle. However, the split-second he did, she twisted her body violently, sending her other leg toward the side of his head. He narrowly blocked it with his other hand. So narrow was the block that the recoil caused him to backhand himself, which released his grip on her ankle. She landed awkwardly with a soft thud, almost falling over.


    They braced against an immense gust of wind as it flowed over them. She executed a sweeping kick at his ankles, to which he jumped over with ease. He then took a few steps back. She lunged upward in pursuit with a flurry of punches. He deflected her onslaught with relative calm. While he appeared wholly on the defensive, he did not look pressured. The exchange of blows slowed until he reciprocated with his own. They evenly went back and forth, only ever delivering glancing blows at best. When he shifted into the defensive again, she incorporated kicks. They continued for several minutes until an agitated Yuna stepped back, then leapt into a flying roundhouse kick. He again narrowly dodged, which sent him reeling, and almost lost his footing. A short distance now lay between them. The sounds of the train, wind, and environment quieted.


    ¡°What the fuck, man?¡± Yuna asked. Aelfric had already composed himself, whilst she wore a furious expression.


    ¡°It is as I thought,¡± Aelfric observed Yuna.


    ¡°Am I crazy, or are you barely trying? What was that weak shit?¡±


    ¡°There are several areas to be improved. However, my greatest concern is you enjoy fighting too much. And as a consequence, prolong it unnecessarily.¡±


    ¡°Uh, what?¡±


    ¡°I needed to confirm personally. I¡¯d observed many of your training sessions with Leon when I first came upon the realization. Question is, do you do it on purpose?¡±


    ¡°Seriously, the fuck¡¯re you on about?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ll assume the negative, then. I¡¯m confident now that you subconsciously prolong combat. Let me assure you, I wasn¡¯t holding back, yet it required my full ability to observe you while we sparred. You sped up or slowed down numerous times to match the pace I set.¡±


    Yuna¡¯s tension faded. ¡°¡­I did?¡± The train went through a pitch-black tunnel. Once emerged, light revealed Yuna shadowboxing with a perplexed look. She replayed the fight in her head.


    ¡°May we transition to a more fitting location? I still fail to comprehend the point of this train.¡±


    Yuna broke from thought. ¡°Yeah, yeah, go. But I¡¯ve had Dante prepare some and will more. How don¡¯t you get it? Fighting atop a speeding train isn¡¯t exciting to you? I¡¯ve always wanted to after seeing it in ¡®Last train to Lyrsium¡¯. If we gotta do this shit in ALTR, may as well make it interesting.¡± He couldn¡¯t be fucking with me, right? No¡­I can¡¯t think of why he would. Was I actually doing that? ¡°You really think I was dragging out the fight?¡±


    ¡°Seeing as I deliberately altered pace, yes, it¡¯s indisputable. Furthermore,¡ª.¡± Aelfric forgot about changing the location as he launched into a detailed breakdown of Yuna¡¯s idiosyncrasies while they¡¯d fought.


    Meanwhile, around noon, a disheveled Viktor Weihelm paced on the floor dedicated to his city within Aegis Headquarters. No sunlight penetrated the floor. Only the light of the holographic Avalyontis. He chugged a canned drink as if it were water. He tossed it aside, almost hitting an approaching Artemis. She went unnoticed as he mumbled until he stopped to puff on a device.


    ¡°Artemis?¡± Viktor rubbed his sleep-deprived eyes. ¡°Artemis.¡± He stared.


    ¡°Viktor, you look unwell,¡± Artemis said. ¡°How long have you been awake?¡±


    ¡°Huh? I don¡¯t know. Listen, it¡¯s good you¡¯re here. We could use a new perspective on something.¡± Viktor explained a dilemma his team had been working on. He solicited Artemis¡¯ opinion at the end, then turned to a man nearby who typed furiously on a tablet.


    ¡°Hey, you, number monkey, you heard that, right? Get¡ª,¡± Viktor said.


    ¡°Already on it, sir,¡± the man said.


    ¡°Good man, good.¡± Viktor ran his fingers through his hair. ¡°We¡¯ve been wrestling with that one for a while. It¡¯d hurt my ego if I wasn¡¯t so grateful to finally have a legitimate, feasible solution.¡±


    Artemis looked around, now noticing several employees sleeping while others hurried about. Viktor glanced about as well until Artemis re-entered his gaze.


    ¡°Ah, Artemis, did you ask something?¡±


    ¡°I asked when you last slept.¡±


    ¡°What time is it?¡±


    ¡°Half past noon.¡±


    ¡°What day is it?¡±


    ¡°Tuesday.¡±


    ¡°Oh¡­¡±


    ¡°Viktor, you missed another board meeting.¡±


    Viktor swallowed some pills, then coughed a bit. ¡°So?¡±


    ¡°They aren¡¯t happy.¡±


    ¡°Are they ever? What of it?¡±A case of literary theft: this tale is not rightfully on Amazon; if you see it, report the violation.


    ¡°If there¡¯s one thing that would give them courage to undermine you, it would be money. You need to assure them of this project¡¯s viability.¡±


    ¡°Bah. Those insignificant worms will fall in line when I tell them to. I appreciate the concern, but I¡¯d forgotten how little time there is in the day. What I¡¯m doing here, Artemis, with my own two hands,¡± Viktor raised and looked at his open palms, ¡°will change the world. Again.¡±


    ¡°I understand. I will do my utmost to pacify them. Get some sleep, though, Viktor.¡± Artemis turned to leave.


    ¡°Ha. Thank you. I¡¯ll consider it. A great man, Alexander, I knew once told me lack of sleep led to some of his greatest breakthroughs. Maybe I¡¯m trying to emulate him.¡± Artemis froze. Her face tensed, jaw clenched. ¡°Please continue to tolerate me, Artemis. I know I¡¯m only able to do this because I can rely on you at the helm.¡± Viktor gazed at Avalyontis.


    Artemis exhaled and continued on. ¡°Of course.¡±


    Artemis strolled to the elevator. After a brief time, a disheveled young man and woman appeared as the doors opened. The woman nearly walked into Artemis. The man stopped her just in time.


    ¡°Ms. Vigard! My apologies,¡± the young man said while guiding the woman out of the way.


    Artemis stepped inside, then turned and paused. ¡°Think nothing of it, Donna, Frank.¡± She looked over them, their fatigue as plain as Viktor¡¯s. They whispered in surprise to one another at her knowing their names, then mumbled further apologies with slight bows to which she gestured they cease. ¡°How long have you been awake?¡±


    ¡°Oh, uhm,¡± Donna muttered.


    ¡°Thirty-something, maybe?¡± Frank said, exchanging a tired gaze with Donna.


    ¡°President Weihelm should allow you to leave soon. Please prioritize your health.¡±


    ¡°What? No, no, Ms. Vigard. We¡¯re not being forced or anything. I hope we¡¯re not giving that impression.¡±


    ¡°At first, we thought he was implying it, but he said nothing when some went home. Right?¡± Donna asked Frank.


    ¡°Yeah. But President Weihelm¡¯s passion is infectious. All the talk about building the future, we¡¯re really doing something here.¡±


    ¡°He even started giving us nicknames instead of just ¡®you¡¯.¡±


    ¡°I see,¡± Artemis said. She continued in as the elevator door nearly closed. ¡°Thank you. And congratulations on your pending nuptials.¡± It closed. Donna and Frank stood in shock for a moment.


    ¡°Wha?¡± Frank mumbled.


    ¡°Holy shit, Frankie,¡± Donna said as she shook him a bit. ¡°Were the rumors really true?¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t be so loud, D. But, uh, yeah¡­I¡¯ve never had a boss I¡¯d never even met before already know my name. Hell, I don¡¯t even know everyone¡¯s name in our department. And she knew about the wedding? Didn¡¯t we only tell people like a week ago?¡±


    ¡°Yeah! She was so serious, but that she even recognized us, like this? Wow. Should¡­should we invite her?¡±


    Frank gave Donna an exaggerated, disapproving look. ¡°No, you nut.¡±


    Some time later, Artemis sat in her office. She interacted with her IRIS, but her movements were sluggish. She stopped to sip slowly at a cup of tea.


    ¡°What if the world¡¯s better with him in it?¡± Xandr asked.


    Artemis sighed as she put down her cup. ¡°Thought you would show up sooner,¡± Artemis thought.


    ¡°I had to put my thoughts in order.¡± A pause ensued. ¡°What? Can¡¯t laugh at a joke your own mind technically made? When¡¯s the last time you did laugh?¡±


    ¡°Get on with your spiel.¡±


    ¡°Fine, fine. Part of how you justify your whole crusade is the world would have been better with me in it. So what if this ¡®Avalyontis¡¯, stupid name, has the potential to make everything better? It¡¯s got the funding, and countless talent Aegis has collected behind it. You saw the fire in those two¡¯s eyes.¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t care.¡±


    ¡°You do. A little, at least. That¡¯s why I¡¯m here.


    ¡°Even if it were a utopia, it doesn¡¯t absolve him. What he¡¯s done.¡±


    ¡°And how are you any different at this point? The countless you¡¯ve stepped over to reach this office?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m not. I won¡¯t seek absolution, either.¡±


    ¡°Ahh.¡± Xandr chuckled. ¡°Of course you would. You tricked me. You¡¯ve already been doing this for a while, haven¡¯t you? I should¡¯ve realized it sooner. But you were always the only person able to pull one over on me. Only you would repurpose a piece of your own fractured psyche to reinforce your resolve. Bravo. Imagine clapping sounds, will you?¡±


    ¡°Had to put you to use, somehow.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m sure I¡¯d like it. I always saw through all the kid¡¯s pranks. Until they recruited you. I was so salty until I realized the three decoys were intentional from the beginning. They were never meant to succeed.¡±


    ¡°Four.¡±


    ¡°Yeah, yeah. You didn¡¯t even look smug, which made it worst. Speaking of, how close were you to, something, I don¡¯t know what, when Viktor so casually mentioned me?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯d have bled twenty years ago.¡± Artemis mused at her palms for a moment, with fingers curled.


    ¡°Has it happened before I was around? Have you seen that Viktor ever? Or only read about it from my journal?¡±


    ¡°Journal.¡±


    ¡°He always had a talent for talking up tomorrow, even without a lot to back it up. That¡¯s how it was when he adopted me. It was him who spurred me on to dream bigger. To reach beyond. His ability to not just acquire talent, but nurture it, hasn¡¯t dulled, it seems.


    ¡°There was something more. I think. A scent of desperation. Never hinted at in your journal, at least. Perhaps him being involved past just management, has sparked something or maybe even a long sought-after desire.¡±


    ¡°Are you worried?¡±


    ¡°No, if anything, his obsession is a boon.¡±


    ¡°Right.¡±


    ¡°Do you remember when¡ª?¡± Artemis reminisced for a time with Xandr.


    ¡°You know, if you want to just have a conversation, you needn¡¯t rely on the voice in your head. I know you wouldn¡¯t with your sycophants, but why not take up Reina¡¯s offer?¡±


    ¡°No. I shouldn¡¯t.¡±


    ¡°Does she really seem like the type to break her word? Don¡¯t be a coward.¡±


    ¡°Fine, I¡¯ll think about it, happy?¡±


    ¡°As happy as a figment could be.¡±


    Artemis gestured. In her IRIS, a virtual journal appeared, opened to the first page. ¡®If you¡¯re reading this¡­¡¯ started the first line. The pages flipped to the very end. A single paragraph on the last page.


    ¡°Reading this again?¡± Xandr asked. ¡°How old are you now? How many times have you re-read this? I¡¯m flattered, but that¡¯s my queue. Too cringe.¡±


    Artemis¡¯ eyes were ever so slightly glassy. The paragraph read ¡®With all that junk outta the way, the hardest part. Artemis. I know in my head that ¡®love¡¯ is for the most part something humans tell themselves to explain chemicals. We want to believe in something more than simply dancing to nature¡¯s tune. I¡¯ve pondered so much on this damned topic. I¡¯d like to think there are real answers and I merely lack the knowledge to see them yet. Until then, I turn to the metaphysical. The soul. Soulmate is such a nonsensical concept. The idea there is only one other out there for you. Despite that, I can not fathom the depths to which I view you, for another, ever. I hate thinking anything is impossible, and yet, it feels impossible. I¡¯m rambling. I wanted to sound cooler at the end. It¡¯s longer than I¡¯d intended. I already regret so much though, I mustn''t regret this, too. You¡¯re probably thinking this is typical me, though. Words fail to do justice for what I feel towards you. What I want to say. Pretend this string of symbols is a language I created about you:¡¯ Strange, indecipherable language-like characters filled some space on the page until the end.


    ¡®Artemis. On the bright side, if I assume my consciousness is energy, it shouldn¡¯t be destroyed when I¡¯m gone. I¡¯ll try to reach you. If I can¡¯t, I¡¯ll wait for you in the afterlife. If there isn¡¯t one, then I¡¯ll coalesce with you in oblivion.¡¯ The entire last page had large indecipherable symbols.