by Harmonium-Kruger

and Twisted Eternal Wolvetta

RENASCENCE

Elemental Duality

It wasn't that the office disturbed Natsuki exactly. It was more along the lines of feeling out of place. After all, who wouldn't be? Natsuki had literally been here for only one night, the first having been…-

Staring down at the papers in front of her, Natsuki's eyebrows knitted together sharply. "Aren't these nominations for the Hexade… a little strange, Shizuru?"

The Archmeister was holding a tray that Natsuki only vaguely remembered. It seemed to distract the younger, and Shizuru chuckled lowly.

"After last night, did Natsuki think I would not bring her breakfast?" She teased, setting the tray down nearby in the sitting area. A low coffee table was gently dusted, though it was clean of any debris.

"I…" Flushing, Natsuki cleared her throat and waved the list. "Back on track, Viola…"

"My, my…" Shizuru gently fluffed her skirt and stepped closer, taking the paper to read. Crimson narrowed, the elder thinking she may have found the issue. "Is it because of Soir?"

"She is one of our best though." Natsuki mumbled, opening a small drawer to her left. A few stapled pages were brought from out of it, Natsuki placing it onto the desk. "Wouldn't having her in place of Hallard be better? But then again, Zhang, Marguerite, and Wang together?"

Surely those three together was just asking for it? Turning a page, the Gakuenchou quickly absorbed the information stated upon the papers. "... There is potential for Huit, and Woods, but still…"

Maybe Natsuki was in way over her head? Leaning back into the chair, she cupped her index, and middle fingers to her chin.

"Hm…" Shizuru examined the list, tapping along the paper with a single nail. "There is no replacing Zhang, Marguerite or Wang. They are undoubtedly our best, not to mention that Zhang is the leader." Lowering the paper, crimson watched the Gakuenchou for a reaction.

Puffing out her cheeks, Natsuki glared up to the ceiling. She heard the elder chuckle, and grumbled. "We need to keep Huit too… She is very talented."

"Of course, I would not dare take Natsuki's favorite student off the list…"

"She's not my favourite." Natsuki huffed. "I just saw what the students refuse to." Did that even make sense? Well, whatever, Shizuru would catch her drift. "The Hexade isn't exactly a walk in the park though. Shiho would need to work with the others."

Did Shiho even like interacting with others? The student always seemed mystified when it was Natsuki speaking to her. Let alone fellow students.

"Which GEMs are we giving them? Meister or column level?" Natsuki wondered out loud. Surely stronger than a meister's GEM?

"Shiho seemed to work fine under Natsuki's supervision during the hike…" Shizuru rounded the desk with a slow determination; Her hands soon resting atop the younger's shoulders.

"Ah… She did, but would she listen to Zhang?" Resting back against her chair once more, Natsuki let out another mumble.

"If Zhang relayed orders from Natsuki." Shizuru uttered, thumbs brushing against the sides of the younger's neck.

"Oi, are you trying to… tease me? With Shiho?"

"Huit certainly thinks highly of her…"

"Don't steal her. You have enough fans, Shizuru." Cocking a brow up at the elder woman, Natsuki slowly rose from the chair. "What's your Butou Graph popularity again? Last year I remember you won first place for the… fifth time?"

"Sixth."

Groaning, Natsuki shook her head. Why did Garderobe even continue the series? Was it still going? She vaguely remembered Marguerite speaking of it…

"What?" She had noticed Shizuru staring, the elder smirking now.

"Perhaps after Natsuki has her butou with the Shinso, we shall have one as well. That is, if the sight of my robe does not cause her to scramble again." Shizuru took a step back, prompting the younger to follow.

"It won't." The Gakuenchou furrowed her brow, thinking on it. "I don't see why we shouldn't… It might be fun-besides, I wasn't at full health back then."

"Whatever Natsuki says." The Archmeister only passed along a smile. This was gradually added with Shizuru standing behind her, hands propping back to Natsuki's shoulders.

"Anyway, am I right in remembering I scorched your eyebrows with my cannon?" Natsuki snickered, being lowered down onto the chair by the sitting area.

"I do not believe I remember that." Shizuru bristled either way, taking a seat by the younger.

Natsuki smirked wider, being served a cup of tea. "No, no… I think it even took two weeks for them to grow back." She was recalling the oddest of memories, but… She liked them.

"I have no idea what Natsuki is talking about." Sure she did.

Relenting, Natsuki sighed. Instead, she glanced down to the tray set before her. "Have you eaten yet, Shizuru?" The elder tended to look after Natsuki and forget all about her health. At times it concerned the Gakuenchou.

"Not just yet, but I did make sure to bring enough for two. Or three, since Natsuki's stomach seems bigger than her-" Shizuru stifled a chuckle at the glare shot her way.

Reaching for the tray, the Ariesian cocked a brow when her hand was gently slapped away. "Bad Natsuki…"

Rolling her eyes, the younger made up Shizuru's plate for her. She liked… strawberries, and raspberries, didn't she? Along with a helping of eggs, and a piece of toast, Natsuki presented Shizuru her plate.

"What next, Shizuru? Do I need to pour your drink for you too?" Natsuki teased, placing what she wanted onto the second plate. "I'm guessing your nanny taught you her customs? The other must always serve you, then vice vers-"

"My, Natsuki seems to be much more courageous today… Must be from last night-" Her mouth covered by the younger's hand, but Shizuru's eyes still held their shine.

Was it just Natsuki, or was Shizuru way too feisty during their day-afters? The Archmeister's personality was already way too teasing. Let alone after they had sex together. Perhaps she was just reading into it too much? But this had never helped during the past, and she knew it wouldn't now.

Instead, maybe she should focus on… working on her own personality? If she was lucky- which was unlikely, maybe she could…

Make fun of Shizuru more?

Of course, Natsuki had recently started to do this. But, she was still far too vulnerable to Shizuru's amusement. Shaking her head, she murmured softly. "I will pour our tea-"

Nudging Natsuki's hand away after a kiss, the elder grasped the teapot. "Natsuki never had the patience to do it so slowly… That has changed in other areas, however…" Crimson darted up, letting the Gakuenchou know just what she meant.

"I will never have another meal with you." The younger threatened, face coloring darkly.

Fortunately for Natsuki's sanity, the Archmeister quieted. Although the amusement never faltered from the elder's expression. Either way, Natsuki was happy for the break, managing to finish up steadily.

However this didn't settle her embarrassment. Inwardly, the Gakuenchou cursed, her cheeks still feeling warm. Gradually, much to her fortune, her thoughts drifted as they ate, eyes being guided to the large windows.

It was morning- barely ten, in fact. They had already undergone their morning routine. Having showered, dressed, and the like. But even so… this felt both distant, and familiar at the same time.

Why was that?

Natsuki felt as though there was something pulling at her thoughts, but she couldn't quite grasp it. Sipping at her tea, she rested back against the chair. It wasn't as if she were unhappy, anything but. There was just… something foreign about this still. Maybe she was only overthinking it all?

Maybe it was just a typical trait of having amnesia? But she was certainly worrying about it all too much…

"Natsuki's head will explode, if she is not careful." The Archmeister murmured, crimsons locking onto her. The elder cupped her glass close to her lips, watching her carefully. If anything, Shizuru looked straight through the Gakuenchou. It was almost as if she was reading a book.

Was Natsuki honestly that easy to read?

"I… just have a lot on my mind." Natsuki sighed, taking another sip of her tea. Did she want to admit to Shizuru exactly what she was concerned with?

No… It would be best not to worry the elder. "This Hexade business seems like a lot of work." Natsuki lied smoothly, setting her cup down. She knew the elder wouldn't fall for it, but Shizuru would brush it aside.

For now at least.

"We should round the students together, then test how they interact." Shizuru spoke in suggestion. Her gaze was still settled upon Natsuki, studying her carefully.

What was it that Natsuki was really thinking about, Shizuru wondered?

"Mm… Along with Miss Maria?" Tilting her head, Natsuki brushed her slacks off and stood. Only now did she notice the figurine of the Shinso replaced onto her desk.

Ears coated in her flush, emerald landed onto the elder with a narrowed gaze. Shizuru simply ignored her, finishing off her tea with her gaze settled elsewhere.

"I'm onto you, Viola…"

How was she noticing it just now? Surely she would've seen it when she had been by her desk? Had Shizuru seriously slipped it back into place in less than a few seconds? Although judging by the Archmeister, that honestly wouldn't surprise her.

"I have been onto Natsuki since last night."

"Mm, if I remember correctly, I was last on you." Natsuki folded her arms across her chest, relishing in Shizuru's embarrassment. To make it last, she connected their gazes and wet her lips.

"Natsuki!" A flush scaled the Archmeister's cheeks. Placing her empty glass onto the coffee table, Shizuru peered away. "This Gakuenchou is far too mean." Lifting from her own chair silently, Shizuru followed after Natsuki.

The younger meister headed back towards the desk, and picked up the sheets of paper.

This Gakuenchou? Natsuki straightened the lists out and tucked them under an arm, faintly concerned. Perhaps this was something she would bring up with Yohko, instead?

She didn't want Shizuru to deem her weak, or unfit. She had gained back too much to lose it again.

Then again, Natsuki didn't quite like the idea of asking Yohko for help. Given by how the doctor's personality was at times. But it wasn't like she would spew any information to anyone. Natsuki would give her that much, at least.

Wait. If they were going to see the nominees, what about Nina, and Tomoe? Were the two still knocked out? But if not, did that mean the two were fighting?

"Natsuki…?"

"We're going to check on Marguerite, and Wang first… and Mai, in the infirmary." The younger added, turning to Shizuru with a soft smile. "I hope at least all three are… doing better."

But would others be down in the lab with Yohko? The elder seemed to prefer having less assistants these days. Natsuki wondered why.

"Let us go then."

"Of course this is Dungeons and Maidens." Yohko grumbled, setting the pieces together for the game. To be honest, she couldn't believe she was even playing this. Let alone with Irina Woods of all people.

Again, why did she allow students down here?

"Can I at least be lawful neutral then? I don't fancy getting bombarded because someone chose to be chaotically evil."

"Hey, why be good? Being evil makes the story, and game so much more fun." Yohko smirked, leaning into the table. Irina set down their map, having apparently been prepared. "Sure, sure. Lawful."

Irina shook her head but at least seemed excited.

How she had managed to tempt Helene into playing with her, she would never know. It always seemed impossible to read the doctor properly, let alone predict her reaction.

"Why would you want to be a necromancer though? They use up so much mana." Irina frowned, watching Yohko place her class figure down. Then again, the class weirdly suited Yohko- it was almost terrifying.

"Necromancer's are the class most suited to myself." Yohko grinned wider, causing Irina to squirm.

"Yeah, dumb question." The student murmured, getting out their twenty-sided die.

"Wouldn't this game be better with more people?" Yohko cocked a brow, examining the large span of the map.

"It would be longer, and larger, but we can do small quests with just two people."

Besides, who would join them? Nina, and Tomoe were still out of it. Arika was waiting for them to wake up too, so Irina doubted she'd want to join. Wouldn't Arika just get bored of such a game, anyway?

"Alright, how do we begin, game meister?" Yohko leaned her chin into her palm, curious of the story in which Irina could create.

The spectacled girl seemed to grin even larger, patting at the map. "We begin lost in an ancient forest; All of nature has died yet not even a necromancer, you, can revive it."

"That destroys the point." Yohko grumbled. If a necromancer couldn't even raise a single corpse, there wa-

"Dungeons and Maidens? I thought that series had been forgotten years ago." The Gakuenchou's voice echoed throughout the lab. Irina jumped in response, but Yohko merely peered up to the stairs.

"Not by many… Want to join?" Irina grinned, nudging Yohko. The student excitedly nodded, hoping they could rope the others in.

"Mm… Maybe. At least, after checking up on Wang, and Marguerite." Natsuki finally settled at the bottom of the stairs, eyeing the map. "Wow, that is some serious business…"

Actually, now that Natsuki thought on it, she was lucky. Irina was down here, and by the looks of it, would be for a long while. If Tomoe, and Nina were well enough, she'd have three grouped together already.

"Where is the Archmeister?" Yohko asked. Usually she was glued to Natsuki's hip. Where was she?

"Oh, Shizuru? She went to find Miss Maria." Rubbing a knuckle to her lips, Natsuki unconsciously glanced towards the hospital ward. "...Can I see Mai afterwards?"

"After the game?" Yohko asked, shrugging. "You can see her now, if you'd like. Along with Marguerite, and Wang. Mai is still asleep, actually, they're all still out."

Natsuki sighed, shrugging as she joined them at the table. "Figures…" Eyes on the map, she hummed lowly. "I want to be a crystal anti-paladin."

"That isn't a class." Irina muttered under her breath.

"I-it is now!" Natsuki huffed.

Yohko snickered, passing the die to Irina. "Okay, game meister, what exactly are we in for in this dungeon?"

Perhaps it had been half an hour, maybe even a few hours. Natsuki didn't know, but as she leaned back into the stiff chair, she wondered. Where was Shizuru? Surely she would've found Miss Maria by now? Or if anything, contacted her she'd be running late?

That was until someone tapped her upon the shoulder, however. Jumping, Natsuki twisted around, then blinked.

"Oh... Uh..." There was no hiding how invested she had been in the game. Natsuki's figure even had sacks of gold attached it it, after all. Clearing her throat, she gingerly rose from the table. "What kept you, Shizuru?" She had a blush creeping down her neck, not being relieved by the elder's soft chuckling.

"It seems Natsuki certainly enjoyed herself waiting." Shizuru spoke, brushing her knuckles away from her lips. She peered over the Gakuenchou's shoulder, regarding the map with a masked notion. "... I apologise." The Archmeister smiled. "Miss Maria was with the Trias. She, Hallard, Soir, and Huit will be here shortly. Mayha shall also be joining us." For such an event, of course the columns would be present. Though if Sara would be joining them, Shizuru was unsure.

"Ah, alright... Let's go check on Mai first." Natsuki excused herself from the table, still appearing sheepish. Yohko snickered to herself, snagging a coin purse from the Gakuenchou's figure.

"Hey, no cheating!" Irina protested, narrowing her eyes at the doctor.

"I am chaotically evil. Like I'm going to listen to you." Yohko bit at the student.

Natsuki chuckled, grasping Shizuru's hand. She led the elder towards the room, peeking in others as she went. Nothing had changed from when they were last down here. Although of course there was no one around. It was just herself, Shizuru and…

Tomoe, Nina, Arika, Mai, and Sara?

It still amazed her that the whole academy had managed to squeeze down here. The facility might look big, but in reality it wasn't really. The most space available was on the lower floor, but it was absolutely desolate down there.

Mayha must have gone up earlier; no doubt because there was nothing to be done about her ribs. Natsuki made a note to talk to her later... Straightening up, she rested a palm against the door leading to Mai's private area.

Talking about Mai, Natsuki was sure she wouldn't be impressed. It was just within Mai's personality to scold Natsuki for not apologising.

This room was the domed chamber which Natsuki herself had been within. It felt like more of a blurred memory these days. Natsuki personally couldn't remember much of it, except for Shizuru, and Mai.

For some reason she connected so much better with memories when people were involved. Was this natural? Or was it something else? Maybe she was just thinking too in-depth about it again.

Shaking herself out of her thoughts when Shizuru brushed against her, Natsuki sighed. Gingerly, she opened the door and took a look inside. True to her assumption, Sara was inside as well.

The blonde's back was facing them, as seemed typical of the scene. From the looks of it, she was leaning forward against her palm also. Nor did the Ariesian show any signs of movement- was she asleep?

Opening the door wider, Natsuki stepped into the room. She glanced back to Shizuru, cocking a brow as she moved closer to the blonde. "Sara...?"

Shizuru clasped a palm to her shoulder, stilling her.

"Ah?" Natsuki looked to her. "Shizuru?"

"She seems tired." Shizuru murmured. Those crimson eyes surveyed the younger column by their distance. Sara hadn't reacted to them in the slightest. There was just a gradual shifting to the blonde's shoulders.

The Archmeister had leant closer to Natsuki, and she wondered why. Was she… perhaps self-conscious? Surely not.

"I suppose... We should leave her be, then?" Natsuki drew away from the room, sighing. She hoped Mai would be alright; Sara evidently needed her greatly. As much as she wanted to see Mai, she knew this was the wrong time. Given Sara's state, this would merely increase tensions also.

There was also an eerie atmosphere within this chamber. Though Natsuki was sure it was due to her personal memories, and feelings. This didn't just involve her coma either.

This was essentially their hospital. Hundreds of otome had died here in the past. Including ones she had known-

-Retreating would be for the best, right now.

"Are you sure?" Shizuru murmured.

"Mm. I'm sure." Natsuki took her lover from the room, gently shutting the door again. "Let us check on Wang, and Marguerite... Maybe they're awake?"

Either that, or they had knocked one another out again. But judging by what Yohko had said during their game, Nina had sustained a broken wrist.

At the back of Natsuki's mind, she wondered if she had witnessed Nina weakening it. The student had out-right punched the underground arena door. That had been when… Zhang had unknowingly locked her, and Shizuru in with them.

That felt like such a distant memory these days. Which was odd, seeing as it was barely a month ago.

Ventured further down the hall, she rustled her hair almost in annoyance. Would they both be within the same room? If so, what was Yohko thinking? But then again, knowing that doctor, she would've done it just to be an ass.

Each door within the corridor they entered had holographic signs above them. Depending on whether they were accompanied, a light shone to indicate this. Natsuki also noticed surnames upon them- though there were only two broadcasted.

"They are sharing a room. Yohko's insane." Natsuki shook her head, her ears twitching upon hearing Shizuru's soft laughter. "Don't you start." Turning her head to regard the Archmeister, she cocked a brow.

But they were evidently an item. Would they still be so violent together if they were... together? Shizuru, and herself weren't, although Natsuki doubted Shizuru had ever been so inexplicably violent.

How would a violent Shizuru act? Snickering to herself, the younger regained her composure, and cleared her throat. Should she knock?

"Natsuki is thinking of something amusing? If so, she should definitely enlighten me."

Ah… there was a buzzer beside the door. It would definitely alert the two inside.

"I have never seen you violent- well, excessively violent." Natsuki explained, pulling her attention from the door. "Even when you're on missions, you never seem to…" What was the word she was looking for? Frowning, the Gakuenchou cupped her chin, and stared down to Shizuru's feet.

Falter? Rush?

"Succumb to rage." Natsuki decided on, lowering her hand after hitting the buzzer. Shizuru gave her an odd smile, a tawny brow quirked up curiously.

"I have succumbed to rage far more than she thinks..."

Opening her mouth, Natsuki made a move to react. This was interrupted however, the buzzer sounding out inside the room. Closing her mouth, the Ariesian shot a pointed look at the Windbloom-native. It was as if Natsuki was suggesting they'd speak of this later.

The notion was agreed upon, crimsons shining in amusement.

At that moment, the door slid open. It wasn't Tomoe, nor Nina who greeted them. Instead, it was a groggy Arika.

"Gakuenchou…? Archmeister…?"

"Arika? How are you?" Briefly, the the second column was truly confused. Quickly, she remembered that the student had obviously been down here also. Though she hadn't expected her to be in Marguerite, and Wang's room.

Not only this, but awake too.

Wondering about her words, Natsuki inwardly groaned. That had been a stupid question, hadn't it? What with Arika seeing her own mother reincarnated…

"I'm watching Nina, and Tomoe." Arika mumbled, standing aside for the two to enter. "Ers was worried about Nina, but wasn't allowed down." Her hair was ruffled, and strands poked from her pigtails. Arika also looked absolutely exhausted, much alike to how Sara was.

If people weren't physically ill in Garderobe, they were mentally sick, weren't they? Natsuki realised. It was a little… sad.

"Why wasn't Erstin allowed down?" Natsuki stepped into the room, bracing a palm against Arika's back. She took a knee, interested in hearing more about how the student was doing.

Shizuru smiled softly, entering as well. She surveyed the two downed girls, noting they were indeed still out. Nina's wrist was braced in a small cast; The fabric looping over her thumb to hold tight.

"Everyone knows Yohko doesn't like people." Arika pointed out, Natsuki nodding in response, and agreement. Hell, her grandma knew that, and she was dead!

"Still... A bit rude." Natsuki sighed, standing. She surveyed the two downed girls, returning attention onto Arika again. "When was the last time you slept?"

"Probably… two days?" Arika glanced to her hand, counting from her thumb to ring finger. Staring at the notion, she rolled the digits back to her hand. "I'm sure I've fallen asleep between." Although that would honestly surprise Arika, given the quality of the seating.

"Arika... I think you should go have a bath, and try to rest, alright?" Natsuki softly spoke, making sure the suggestion was more an order. Shizuru returned to her side, agreeing with a muted nod.

"Hmm…" Hesitantly, the student gradually relented. She nodded silently. "I'll go t-"

"B-...-ter."

Natsuki blinked, turning towards the other two. They were still asleep, so... what was that?

She continued to watch the pair, and her forehead wrinkled in protest to her frowning. Abruptly, Natsuki's followed after Tomoe whom sat up. But something felt wrong.

"...Ah, she's doing it again." Arika murmured tiredly, watching the elder student also.

"...Ara." They heard the Archmeister.

Was she… sleeping still? "Wait." Natsuki muffled in confusion, watching Shizuru float towards the student's bedside. "Isn't it bad to wake a sleepwalker up?" This bafflement didn't ebb away, in fact, an anxiety pitted into the Gakuenchou's stomach. It had been so long since she had seen something like this, what w-

"The opposite, in fact." Shizuru moved forward, brushing past the two. Lowering herself closer to the bed, she regarded Tomoe soundlessly. The amethyst was indeed still unconscious- she didn't react at all to Shizuru. Tomoe appeared more drunk, if anything.

"Tomoe?" She murmured, clasping her palms to the student's upper-arms.

"Urh. What…?" Nina had apparently chosen this moment to rouse; Coal hair ruffled in its downed state. Blearily, she regarded the new room occupants, drifting ochre onto Tomoe. "She's doing it again? Ugh... idiot..."

Blinking away the sleep which took residence, Nina shifted her gaze up to Shizuru. "...I know how to wake her."

Oh, did her wrist burn right now… Wincing, she glanced down to her right limb. Resting her forearm against her thigh, she slowly pried into a sitting position.

Natsuki tilted her head, gazing towards them intently. What did Nina plan to do? Shizuru had backed away to give space, a smirk playing upon her lips. Did she know?

What the student did made them wince. Instead of what they- or Shizuru at least- had expected, Nina stretched past the gap between the beds awkwardly. With a scowl etched along her features, a well placed, uninjured palm greeted the back of teal. "Wake up!"

The action caused Tomoe's body to jolt forward. A reaction wasn't triggered, and so Nina repeated the motion.

Slap.

A grunt flew from the elder student's mouth, and she blinked, staring down at the bed. What th-?

Slap.

"What the he-W-Wang?!" Shooting her gaze over towards the younger student, Tomoe flared. What was that for?! Feeling lightheaded, she cupped the back of her head, and leaned further into her position. She felt as if she was floating on clouds, nor did the black stars fade. They only did so gradually, and she fired a scowl of her own to Nina.

"You were sleep-walking in front of the Gakuenchou, and Archmeister! I didn't want you to say something stupid." Nina reeled back into her own bed, nursing her hand.

She had been sleep walking? Opening her mouth, Tomoe's brows furrowed, and she quickly glanced between the columns, and Arika. Oh. She closed her mouth quickly, but shot another glare at Nina. "That doesn't mean to hit me again!"

"I wasn't sure whether you were awake." Nina hid a smirk.

Now it was childishness?

Staring at the Altain flabbergasted, Tomoe sighed quietly. Her shoulders sank in response, and she directed her attention back to Shizuru, and Natsuki.

The Gakuenchou seemed amused, but muted it as attention was gained. "Are you two-" Glancing to Arika, she cleared her throat. "Are you three well enough to leave this area? We have important matters to discuss."

"Matters?" Nina questioned, sitting up in her bed entirely. With her, and Tomoe? What was this about, exactly? She doubted Arika would be included, but there was always that chance.

"It refers to the Hexade; Miss Maria briefed you on it a few days prior. Do you both remember?" Natsuki rose a hand, straightened her cross-cravat.

"Ah, I think I do…" Nina lifted a hand and rubbed under her chin. It was mottled dark with bruising, as was Tomoe's temple. The touch was sensitive, and brought a sharp shock. Pulling her fingers from the bruising, Nina glanced at Tomoe discreetly.

The older girl seemed dazed still, and she was sure the slaps hadn't helped.

"Well, no matter." Natsuki waved it off, examining them both. "It was no doubt just information on what exactly the Hexade is. Are you both well enough to move?" She repeated her question, tilting her head.

"We can meet in the lab for everyone else in half an hour. That will give you time to get ready." The Gakuenchou continued, turning to Shizuru. "You did ask them to come around that time, right?" She asked, the Archmeister nodding in ease. "And you-" Natsuki pinpointed her focus upon Arika, forcing the girl to jump. "-Need to rest." She ordered, crossing her arms as she looked down to the student.

Arika seemed sheepish but far too tired to argue. "I'll go find Erstin, then…" She stifled a yawn, looking back to the other two students before wandering out.

Erstin Ho was Arika's roommate, right? Watching the ginger leave, the room was left within an awkward silence for a moment.

"So… half an hour?" Tomoe murmured, sliding a palm across her darkened temple. She was careful in the notion, slowly attempting to wake herself up.

"Half an hour." Natsuki confirmed, nodding. "If you two need any medication, you can ask Yohko." Eyeing the both of them, it seemed she had more to say. "Your match was one I looked forward to, and while the end was less than… textbook, I rather enjoyed it. You both have grown with your tactics, and hand-to-hand combat; I look forward to watching you in the future."

Nina blinked, flushing at the sudden onslaught of flattery. "T-Thank you, Gakuenchou…"

"She's embarrassed." Tomoe snickered under her breath, causing Nina to shoot her gaze on her. Ignoring the younger student, Tomoe regarded Natsuki instead. "Thank you, Gakuenchou. I hope we can continue to make you proud." Drifting her attention to the Archmeister instead, Tomoe's gaze subtly narrowed.

Shizuru was being oddly quiet lately. Especially around the Gakuenchou; this wasn't typical behaviour she had experienced from the Archmeister. Was there something… up?

"We will see you then." Natsuki bowed her head to them, turning to Shizuru. It seemed almost as if she wanted praise, and earned it with a tug of her sleeve.

"Mm." Shizuru smiled to them, tugging Natsuki from the room playfully.

"I heard that, Marguerite." Nina grumbled.

"Hear what?"

Rolling her eyes, the Altain huffed. "Whatever, nothing."

"Stop using my lab for meetings!"

If Natsuki heard Yohko above the hum of machines, they didn't know. Perhaps the Gakuenchou had chosen to merely ignore the biting remark? This was probably the case.

"Do we have everyone here?" Natsuki asked, drifting her eyes across the top of heads. They were missing… Ah. "Where is Woods?" Obviously they were within the lab, and were situated by the wall of Yohko's main platform.

"Sorry! I went to the restroom…" Irina sheepishly poked up from the back, sidling in with them all.

Natsuki stifled a smirk, shaking her head to rid herself of the amusement. Akane seemed nonplussed with this meeting, and Mayha only glared…

Oh, right. Mayha had broken ribs still. Somehow she had forgotten that for a minute.

For once, the columns were all present. Even Sara was here, which in itself was surprising. Natsuki would've thought the blonde would refuse to leave her post. It wasn't uncommon knowledge, that they were positioned barely a few metres from Mai.

"Now that we have the chance, I believe it is time to structure the Hexade." Natsuki murmured. She settled her gaze on them one by one. From the columns, down to the students, and Maria.

Their seating was haphazard for the moment. In a line they sat beside one another, facing Natsuki, who stood.

Natsuki couldn't quite help but notice Nao was sat beside Mayha, as well. The two had outright gloated at her in the pool too. Was there something-

-Shizuru lightly cleared her throat to gain her focus, and Natsuki blinked. "Ah… The Hexade is desperately needed at a time like this. We do not know when the next attack will happen, but there is no doubt it will."

Akane finally seemed to focus, but she still seemed… inattentive? Was something wrong? Sending a glance to Shizuru instead, she chewed the inside of her cheek. Quietly musing, she wondered whether it'd be a good idea to advance upon Akane.

There was definitely something up with her, even with this little information. Sooner or later though, Natsuki would be forced to speak with her. Redirecting her rail of thought, the Gakuenchou regarded the group once more. "We need nominations." How long would the Hexade take to be formed, then stabilized? She was sure that with Miss Maria's help, this would be quickened. But even so…

They didn't know how much time they had left.

"Of course for such a system, the roles are highly specific." Clutching her hands behind herself, Natsuki hid them from view. Through nervous habit, she then rolled her thumb across her middle knuckle. "... Each of you have a role for the founding of this system."

Juliet kept quiet but somehow still had an air of arrogance. No doubt she was growing into her grooming as a column. Surely Mayha knew, perhaps that is why they sat together?

"Who will be leading?" Chie spoke up, leaning forward. She seemed excited, at least compared to Akane by her side. Shiho was fidgeting, obviously trying to avoid being looked at.

And of course, this was the moment Natsuki had dreaded… Narrowing her eyes on Juliet, she clamped her tongue with her teeth. She was smirking! Those lime eyes were filled with an amusement, the mere gesture irritating Natsuki.

"... It is Zhang."

Nina tilted her head, tossing a glance to the older student. Juliet? Why? Starting to put it together, she leaned back against her chair. Because the elder girl had been the one to win her butou?

Chie seemed surprised as well, leaning on her palm briefly. "Really…?"

"Really." The Gakuenchou nodded, tearing her gaze from the redhead quickly. "As infuriating as she is, we believe she will fit into the role."

"I am here, you kn-" Wincing, Juliet quickly closed her mouth. Miss Maria had reached across Mayha, her digits snatching her earlobe.

"Ah." Chie refrained from snickering, clearing her throat. "Miss Maria told us this was a column led squad… Does that mean that Juliet is now a column?"

"Zhang was appointed the 4th Column just recently." Natsuki murmured, her hands tightening behind her. "It was only ceremonial between the Archmeister, however. So it'll be sometime until she has her placement."

"Wow." It was Nina who spoke this time, apparently surprised still. She glanced to Tomoe, then towards Juliet. If she had won instead, would she have been the new column? Then again… That much responsibility wasn't something she wanted.

Relenting her iron grasp upon Juliet at last, Maria settled back into her seat. Clasping her hands into her lap, she straightened her back. "Gakuenchou." Her features were as stern as ever, never faltering in her focus.

Wetting her lips, Natsuki silently regarded her.

"With today's events, can we trust that the younger generation will live up to our expectations?"

Juliet rubbed at her earlobe discreetly, clearing her throat. "I will make sure to be as good as a leader… as you, Gakuenchou."

Natsuki was unsure whether that was lip or not…

Was it? Drifting her gaze to Shizuru, Natsuki's eyebrows lifted subtly. For some reason she could make out the hint of a grin upon Shizuru's lips. Shaking her head, Natsuki spoke. "I believe the whole of the diamond class is ready, Miss Maria. The upper amethysts also, but I can't say the same for the others."

Nina was still unsure. At least she wasn't having to follow Tomoe's orders- she sneered to the thought, composing her expression a moment after. The mere concept sounded more like a nightmare to her. Many of them had kept quiet, was Irina, herself, Tomoe, and Akane uncertain?

What would happen if Hexade didn't have enough nominations come forward?

"If so." Shizuru's voice filtered into the lab suddenly, luring in everyone's attention. "I would recommend the extensive training programme."

Natsuki registered her tone silently. She must have had a taste of that with Mai working her body back to its proper status. Subtly, the Gakuenchou shifted and flexed her arms beneath her coat; Feigning a yawn as she did so.

Shizuru focused on her entirely, and… was she blushing?

She would have to ask about this little detail, Natsuki decided. But for the time being… "Would this extensive training stretch over to tactics as well? We can't have the new generation being meat heads, after all."

Irina snickered, covering her mouth quickly. "Meat heads…" She whispered, barely audible but heard. Nina stifled a grin, clearing her throat.

"Of course. When we are all… able to, we will share our tactical advantages." Shizuru nodded to the Gakuenchou, smiling faintly.

"Don't the Trias usually help in this?" Chie asked, studying the Gakuenchou, and Archmeister. What was up with those two? They were suddenly… Chie couldn't quite place it. Detailing the thought, she glanced at Tomoe. "Like how the oneesama trains the kohai?"

Glancing to Chie, Natsuki cleared her throat and nodded. "That would be the ideal relationship, yes." She noticed the epitome side-eyeing her, and glanced over. Maria was giving her a glare, now… Why? Had she noticed? Natsuki flushed lightly, glancing back to Shizuru to find the elder snickering softly.

"What I am seeking today, is whether this Hexade can function." Natsuki uttered quickly. Prying her eyes from anyone in particular, her hands tensed further.

"Obviously Zhang is an official member automatically. "Woods, Huit, Hallard." Natsuki paused mid-sentence, wetting her lips. "Soir, Wang, Marguerite. You've all been nominated for a placement within Hexade. But only five of you will make it, if you so wish."

"And if one of us doesn't wish to?" Shiho finally spoke up, and Natsuki glanced to her. Before surprise could register, she quickly interjected. "Not that I don't want to be in it- I do."

Akane shifted, Nina darting her gaze to the unsure otome. Could it be that Akane didn't want to? The mere idea confused Nina; surely someone such as Akane would want to be within the Hexade?

The diamond hesitated. Was she waiting to see how the others felt?

"I want to be in as well." Nina decided to stake her claim, ochre shooting to Tomoe. The elder girl sat up, obviously not wanting to be left out. "I'm in."

Mayha secured an arm around her stomach, settling her gaze onto Irina. She was past sure that Soir wasn't up to it, but Woods? It could be a yes or no and either would surprise her.

The Ariesian was thinking about it, that much was obvious. Irina stared at the floor, the cogs almost visibly cranking inside her head. Looking between the others for a hint, Irina gnawed her lip.

Immediately she saw Akane's uncertainty about this. If anyone else didn't want to join, then she would. But the latter…? "Mark me in." She grinned.

Chie hummed almost obnoxiously, watching Akane. It was clear to her that the other girl definitely didn't want to join. "I'm in, of course. I can't let my kohai go alone." She teased Tomoe, grinning.

"Stop calling me that, you weeaboo." Violet-steel side-eyed Chie, causing the Ariesian's smirk to intensify. The hiss had been barely a whisper. Yet somehow, as if by a miracle, Miss Maria was none-the-wiser. Tomoe pointedly stared at Chie, and fought the urge to frown.

"Says the kohai who calls her upperclasswoman, Oneesama."

"You're sure, Soir?" Natsuki asked the student, apparently oblivious to the students' bantering. She attempted to lure out an answer from Akane, observing her closely. Would this do more harm than good, she wondered?

Raising her gaze to the elder's, Akane gently nodded. "I would rather opt out, I'm afraid." She confirmed everyone's thoughts, and Natsuki hummed softly.

"Then it seems we have our Hexade."

Releasing a breath she hadn't realised she had held, Natsuki's shoulders sank. Finally loosening her hands, she slowly brought her arms either side of herself. This meeting, as short as it was, had been subtly stressful. She rose a hand, gently tracing an area on her temple. Her head didn't hurt but there was a faint oddness within. Perhaps she was just fuzzy from holding her breath?

"So…" Shiho shifted awkwardly, glancing between Miss Maria, and Natsuki. "That's it? Isn't there some rites we have to take?" She was pretty sure the epitome would want to perform one of her… ceremonies for the occasion too.

Those bleak chair rituals still made Shiho feel on edge. It felt… wrong, as if she shouldn't even be doing it in the first place. The generation from Miss Maria's time was so different compared to her own.

In reality, who was the better generation? For obvious reasons, no one had seeked the answer.

"There are, but for the moment, we shall… suspend them until everything is smoothed over." Natsuki spoke, cradling her brow momentarily. "Same as Zhang's coronation for her column title." Her brows set in the last word, flicking her gaze towards Juliet.

The redhead seemed only to smirk more; Glancing over to look at Mayha. Those two… Natsuki sighed, sitting down heavily, then leaning back into her chair. Would she really have to speak with Akane after this…? It was probably for the best.

She really did miss that cursed spon-

"...Hiyooo, Hel-he-..."

...What?

An awfully familiar drawl set into the intercom surrounding the lab. The tone was of a drunk nature, if not completely hammered. Realising just who this probably was, a creeping dread filled Natsuki's stomach.

"Oh, no." She groaned, setting her palm to her eyes. The other women regarded her oddly, and she could feel the burn of Miss Maria's glare. Yet the Gakuenchou didn't care, lest she'd become the more frustrated.

"...Anh?" Shizuru quietly spoke, and Natsuki nodded. The Archmeister stood, not exactly sure what she should do. "Ah, well… If there is nothing else that needs my immediate presence…?"

"Go." Natsuki ordered, still covering her eyes. She did not feel like dealing with the drunken princess, but no doubt she had to.

It had to be her luck. Did the students even know about Anh's… fondness to alcohol? No, of course they did. She was just being stupid now. But anyway…

Shaking her head, Natsuki avoided casting her gaze towards the stairs. She knew fully well of who was being helped down them by Shizuru. "Soir, what will you do?" She asked to the Trias member, fixing her posture.

"What… do you mean?" Akane asked, a little confused. She removed her cautious gaze from the stairs, clearing her throat. "I will still continue to be an otome."

Natsuki nodded, folding her hands atop her lap. "Of course." Was she just making small talk? Perhaps it was a sign of discomfort? She had never understood the point of small talk. It all seemed so unneeded to her.

"What do you mean I can't… ca… urgh, I think I'm go-"

"Can someone mute that link? I don't think I want to hear the princess throw up." Natsuki covered her ears, noticing Nina doing the same.

"If I hear it, I might do it." The girl grumbled, ignoring the scooting of chairs away from her. She glared to the floor, sighing in frustration. It wasn't that she cared that they moved away from her- she didn't blame them.

After all, she would've done the same. Leaning down closer to her lower body, she groaned lowly. She paid attention to nothing but the metal panelling set beneath her feet.

Around them, a high pitched squealing of the intercom's microphone erupted. Moments later, it was switched off entirely, much to the group's relief.

Miss Maria however, merely sat still, hands clasped smoothly against her lap. She had never once moved, her eyelid only twitching to Nina's discomfort.

"Well…" Natsuki slowly stood, clearing her throat. "Miss Maria, could you take it from here?" She had the urgent need to check up on Shizuru; No doubt Anh might try something. Consequently the princess was drunk. When she was sober… Natsuki shuddered, quickly leaving them alone.

Ignoring the stares burning into her back, she rounded past the mass of computers. These blocked her direct route, and at the back of her mind, Natsuki pondered. Just why were there so many on this platform? There were two, and there was definitely space on the lower floor. So why…?

The Gakuenchou supposed it was a given. Yohko Helene had such an odd personality at times.

"You hurt my heart so." The drunken slur drawled into Natsuki's ears. Bypassing the last of the machinery, and equipment, the Ariesian paused once in view.

"Is she being a nuisance?" Natsuki asked over, not caring if the princess heard. It seemed her question was answered visually; Anh gasping obnoxiously upon her arrival. Clinging to Shizuru, the elder gave a shaky sob, and promptly passed out.

Blinking, Natsuki took a few steps closer. "Drunk people…" She huffed, unimpressed.

The Annamese woman had slouched against the Archmeister's front. The image was actually quite humorous, what with Shizuru's current expression. She stared at Natsuki blankly for a moment, before peering down to Anh sharply. Her arms looped around the princess's in order to halt her from falling. Not only this, but the taller woman grumbled into Shizuru's chest mindlessly.

"Bl-blanket…"

"We're not getting her a blanket." Natsuki deadpanned, easing closer to help Shizuru. "She can sober up in a bathtub."

"Natsuki!" Shizuru forced herself not to smile, instead scolded her lover softly. "I will put Anh to bed… Though I will not stay with her." She teased, watching the younger's cheeks redden.

"Shizuru." Natsuki warned softly, crossing her arms. "Why is she drunk… How did she get drunk? Everyone knows not to give Anh alcohol…"

"I do not know." Shizuru murmured, having Anh's weight lifted off her slightly. They held onto the elder meister carefully, or in Shizuru's case at least. Natsuki was disgruntled at the notion more than anything. "You know how she is, surely? She gets drunk off the weakest of drinks." A soft chuckle escaped the Archmeister's lips.

"You would think royalty could handle their liquor." Natsuki's lips twitched, the younger woman amused. "What with their coronation parties, dignitaries, and diplomatic visits…" She blinked, humming softly. "When was the last time I drank?"

"Perhaps… the last ball in Garderobe?" Shizuru pondered, backing them up slowly. "... A year, and a half ago?" She herself didn't know the precise date. It wasn't like the Gakuenchou was even bothered in drinking anyhow.

She herself sometimes drank wine. But Shizuru rarely did so these days. She already had the dirty addiction of smoking anyway. Of course, her nano-machines quickly took care of the negativities, so self-destruction wasn't even possible. But it was a nice stress-killer with no consequences.

"If my tolerance has depleted, I swear…" Natsuki sighed, the two ushering Anh along. "Let's stuff her in a room to sober up." She proposed, looking up to Shizuru.

"With or without notification to Yohko?" The elder grinned, though knew which Natsuki preferred. "With." She decided herself, hearing the Gakuenchou grumble in response.

"I am right here, you know?" Youko muttered from the cluster of machinery. Natsuki jumped in response, Shizuru merely glancing over. The doctor was utterly surrounded by the clutter by a desk. With her holographic laptop, she typed away almost obliviously. "Chuck her in Room 3, there's nothing she can get high off." Rolling her eyes, she never even glanced at the pair. "I'll check on her later." Yohko wafted a hand dismissively.

"Room 3 it is." Natsuki smirked, tugging more on Anh. Shizuru cocked a brow, following the younger woman.

"Anh is not a rope, Natsuki." She scolded softly, though already could hear a comeback from that.

"Then she shouldn't be so… strung out." There it was. She stifled a chuckle, instead listening to Natsuki snicker.

"U-uhh…" Anh was muffled against Shizuru still, and Natsuki's brow twitched.

For some reason, Anh had always put Natsuki off. It wasn't her personality exactly but she just figured it was the princess', and Shizuru's history. Those two had always been together during their school life together. Obviously, since Anh had been Shizuru, and…- Oneesama.

Natsuki discreetly shook her head. She wouldn't be thinking of that general.

"Just a few more steps." She heard Shizuru speak, and realized they were in the room. She immediately let go of Anh, watching the princess topple into a bed.

"Natsuki! I said a few more steps." The elder admonished, also letting go of Anh. She tilted her head, crimson raking over the Gakuenchou. "Is something wrong?"

"Oh, no… I just got distracted." Natsuki shrugged, smiling softly. It was half true, at least.

"Is Natsuki… jealous of Anh?"

"W-what?" Shooting her gaze from between the drunk princess, and the Archmeister, Natsuki stared. Gobsmacked, eyebrows arched with a gradual surprise. "N-no!" She ushered out instantly.

"Whatever Natsuki says." Shizuru chuckled. She tore her attention from Natsuki once more. Inspecting the older otome, she made sure Anh was at least on her side. "Who would have thought." She murmured softly, angling the Annamese in such a position to avoid choking.

Would it be a good idea to bring some water ready for when Anh awoke? Brushing her fingertips to her chin, Shizuru paused for a moment. She simply stared down at her Oneesama, studying her.

"Who would have thought what?" Natsuki asked, tilting her head. Why was she feeling… jealous? She knew for a fact that the two of them had never done anything… Didn't she?

All these thoughts were beginning to overwhelm her. "Ugh… I think I should go sit down." She murmured, cradling her temple for a moment; her head feeling hot.

She supposed she still felt too… stressed. Really what she needed was to discuss everything with Shizuru. But Natsuki was hardheaded, and anxious. For some reason she just feared Shizuru wouldn't understand. But she knew this wasn't the case.

"Then Natsuki will sit down." Shizuru immediately came to her side, clasping a hand to her lower back. "Though, perhaps not down here?"

"We did leave Miss Maria alone with her new Hexade." Natsuki pointed out, though the elder pretended not to have heard.

It was more of an excuse. Shizuru knew what Natsuki was like, and if she could help it, she'd break down the Gakuenchou's walls. "Natsuki." She murmured with a minor warning. "In this state, Miss Maria would throw you out. You should know she can detect the smallest issue from the other side of the academy."

It was almost as if the epitome had a sixth sense to trouble. Perhaps she even did. Shizuru wouldn't be in the least surprised if it was the case.

"I know you are feeling stressed." She continued, studying the Gakuenchou closely. Shizuru lifted her hand gradually up Natsuki's spine, following the silk of the jacket. "You cannot hide this away from me, Natsuki. We spoke about this already, did we not?"

"...We did." The guilt on Natsuki's face was enough to make Shizuru almost regret her confrontation. The younger looked away, raising an arm to clutch at the elbow of her other. "It's just… I'm still trying to learn all of what I've forgotten. It's getting harder every day." She softly confessed, raising her gaze back to the elder.

"Not to mention sometimes my head feels like it'll explode. Literally and figuratively." The Gakuenchou added, sighing. "I just… Want to get better without having to rely on so many people at once."

Lowering her arm, Natsuki instead grasped her lover's free hand. "I don't quite feel like myself sometimes." She admitted, glancing around with a hint of shame.

"Then…" Glancing down to the hand, Shizuru tilted their hold around. Instead, her own clasped the back of the Gakuenchou's palm; supporting it, in a way. "Perhaps I should explain something. It's about your wellbeing, along with your past." With her speech falting, Shizuru didn't care. All she did was scoot closer to the younger otome.

Delicately sliding a free hand into Natsuki's other, she murmured quietly. "Would you feel better if I said this?" The Archmeister's expression was soft, but with the hint of concern slipping from her mask.

Letting the question run through her mind, Natsuki slowly nodded. "I think I would… Because-" She bit her lower lip; Was she too prideful to admit the full extent? "I feel like I'm losing myself." She spat it out as if the words tasted sour, downcasting emerald.

"Firstly, I must apologise to Natsuki." The Archmeister spoke lightly. She kept a hold of Natsuki's gaze, but this only lasted for a few moments. Instead, the Gakuenchou took to staring at their knees. "Do you perhaps… remember taking your medication as a student?"

Shizuru herself had been aware of it. But the full information had only been explained to her by Natsuki herself. This having been a good few months after they had got together all those years back.

Furrowing her brows in thought, Natsuki spun her hand around, grasping Shizuru's. Medication? She just barely grasped a memory of it, yet she couldn't fit the pieces together. "Not entirely…" There was something wrong with her, however? Something that didn't stem from that incident?

For once, she was actually eager to hear what could be wrong with her. Wetting her lips, Natsuki rose her eyes to Shizuru once more. "What is it?"

Shizuru didn't care for how long this would take. What was important, was making sure Natsuki finally understood this. Personally, at the back of her mind, she had in a sense prayed this would disappear. But of course it wouldn't. Nor was wishing such a thing positive.

"You feel a disconnection from yourself, and others, yes?" Shizuru asked her. Mildly, the Archmeister was aware of the clock clicking above the door. "As much as you want to interact with others, you just can't bare it. You hate this, and you have a general fear of… losing control."

Scanning the elder's eyes, Natsuki slowly nodded. Not only was it hard to even speak to anyone she didn't consider a friend, but… She bit her lower lip, too hard to keep from wincing. "Yes… I feel sometimes as if I'm watching myself, or… Losing myself?"

"You don't have the typical anxiety." Shizuru paused in thought. How was she supposed to explain this properly? She had known Natsuki for so long, that this behavior had ingrained into her mind. How exactly was she supposed to get the Gakuenchou to understand this entirely?

"It is… fragmented, in a way." The Archmeister continued finally, shifting her head to the side. She glanced up at the clock almost warily, before setting her gaze onto Natsuki.

The Gakuenchou seemed to be taking it calmly, at least. Though Shizuru couldn't tell for sure how she would react to the upcoming information.

Natsuki stayed silent, their gazes locked. Something shifted behind emerald, perhaps an inkling of understanding; Or something else? "Why do you keep looking at the clock?" She finally asked, brows furrowing just enough to crease her brow.

"Hm"? The Archmeister tilted her head. She trailed her gaze across Natsuki carefully, registering the change. Anh shifted behind them, forcing Shizuru to realise the princess was knocked out cold still. How she had forgotten about the princess, Shizuru was clueless.

"Are we taking too long? Surely, she would understand?" It seemed the younger was a bit frustrated now; Natsuki letting go of Shizuru's hand, and stepping back. "This is about my… disorder, after all? It's serious, and we should be allowed time."

Now Shizuru was confused; Was this truly about the time? Natsuki seemed irritated, and unfortunately a true sign that her affliction was indeed back.

Maybe back was the wrong word. After all, the condition had always been present.

"Natsuki." Shizuru watched her pace around the room, and sighed. Stretching over Anh's unconscious form, she opened the drawer on the other side of the bed. It was white, much alike to most of the room. Inside this drawer, with some sifting about, Shizuru finally found something. "Follow me in a moment."

She wanted to move into another room for this. She knew how rattled Natsuki could get. Let alone when others were able to hear.

Confused, Natsuki watched her. What had she taken, and why were they switching rooms? Her head felt as if it was cloudy… She waited on Shizuru, seeming impatient then appearing guilty of having felt so. What was the elder even doing?

Arching her head, she peered over the bed, and Shizuru's slender back. A clipboard, and pen were slid from the drawer, realisation entering Natsuki's mind. Oh, right. Was she going to write a message for when Anh woke up? Probably, seeing as the elder constantly made Natsuki notes.

Natsuki calmed down a little, raising her hands to cover her face. Her cheeks felt hot, though it was stifling down here. Putting pressure against her brow, she lowered her hands. Glancing to the clock, she wondered exactly how long they had been away.

Fifteen minutes? Longer? Shorter?

Scribbling a note down upon the clipboard, Shizuru eventually rose. With her back facing the younger otome, she brushed her clothing down. "Come, Natsuki." She spoke, drifting her hand back to Natsuki's as she neared.

Passing the Gakuenchou an encouraging smile, she lightly tugged her.

"Ah-" Natsuki grasped tight to her hand in return, following her. She briefly wondered what the elder had written, but knew she didn't need to know. Where had all these jealous thoughts come from…?

When privacy was regained in the other room, Natsuki drew her hand away. "Is… jealousy an underlying issue with this disorder?"

"Yes." The Archmeister replied. Having entered before Natsuki, she deftly closed it after them both.

Shizuru was no expert in diagnosis, nor disorders in general. But she knew how to read body language, and emotion. In Natsuki's case, they still had her old medical records in storage.

In fact, Shizuru wondered whether it'd be a good idea to retrieve them. Perhaps she would once Natsuki understood it.

"To be honest I had hoped Natsuki might've… forgotten about this condition." Shizuru murmured, gesturing the Gakuenchou to sit beside her on the bed.

"...Oh." Natsuki's voice sounded so small; A hint of disappointment washing in as well as shame. Shizuru immediately felt guilt, grasping the younger's hand when she sat at her side. She squeezed, not getting one back.

Keeping her gaze to the floor, Natsuki was entirely unsure of how to react to that. Shizuru wished she didn't have this condition? Well… she wished that she had never had it in the first place.

"Well, let's just… not talk about it. Maybe I'll feel better." Now it was awkward. Clearing her throat, Natsuki gave a weak squeeze back before taking her hand away.

"No, Natsuki." It wasn't that Shizuru dismissed a part of Natsuki. Of course she didn't. "For your sake, I wish you didn't have it." Sliding a palm up the younger meister's arm, Shizuru clutched her shoulder. Upon it, she refocused their gaze, continuing. "I love you, Natsuki. A mere disorder, illness, disease, or whatever else won't stop this."

Surely she would understand this?

Nodding, Natsuki turned and enveloped Shizuru into a strong embrace. Nails digging into the back of the elder's shirt, she buried her nose against soft skin. "Thank you." She murmured, voice low and cracking.

Wrapping her arms just as tight around Natsuki, the Archmeister kissed against coal hair. "I am sorry that I insinuated I did not like something about you." Shizuru gently spoke, lifting a hand to sift through dark locks. "I love you."

"I love you too." Natsuki attempted to get closer, only succeeding in trying to climb into the elder's lap.

"N-Natsuki?" The Archmeister chuckled quietly, watching Natsuki's torment with a faint amusement. What was she doing? The Ariesian was practically straddling her. Not that neither of them cared.

Although judging by the warning stares they had gained from Miss Maria…

Shizuru was sure Miss Maria suspected they were doing something else.

"I think she is misunderstanding what I am wanting to discuss." Shizuru lightly teased. But either way, she planted her palms to the Gakuenchou's rear. She rested them there, and simply arched a brow at the other.

"I just wanted to be closer." Natsuki flushed, leaning in to hug her again. Her chin rested atop Shizuru's shoulder, nails still dug into the fabric of her shirt. "We have to go back soon, don't we?" She sighed, pulling back and easing to stand.

At least she felt better; Knowing there was indeed something wrong. It wasn't all in her head, and that made her feel validated. "Sorry for… getting jealous, and mad."

"No, no." Shizuru smiled. Propping her hands behind her, the Archmeister only watched Natsuki. "I would think we should speak about your disorder though, Natsuki. Surely you want to know more about it?"

Having gone this far, surely they should discuss it?

"Ah, yes…" Natsuki smiled softly, flushing. "If we have time?" She glanced around for a clock, but this room was bare of it. How odd. Miss Maria would understand, surely?

"What else can you tell me about it?" She remembered mention of medication, and perked up. "Can I get back on my medicine?"

Her medication would've helped her in the past, right? So surely it would now? But it was true she needed to know more of this condition. Hell, she didn't even know what the name of it was.

"What's the name of i-"

"Avoidant Personality Disorder."

Avoidant…? That definitely sounded like her, even without knowing the deeper meaning. Natsuki nodded, lifting a hand to cup her chin. "And… what are the traits to it?"

From the mere word, it sounded like her. But a… personality disorder? It sounded extreme- scary.

"It is severe?" The question sounded silly the moment it left her mouth. "Of course it is…" She frowned, shaking her head. She quieted, letting Shizuru answer her prior question.

"It only will be if you allow it to be so." The Archmeister spoke. "Imagine social anxiety. They have a fear, and mistrust of people. One of their most intense fears is to… fail in themselves- so they refuse to take any risks."

Natsuki nodded, understanding so far. It was severe at this point, she assumed. "Then… do you think the medicine will work? Had it worked before?" She asked, obviously desperate. She hated feeling like this, though at least felt better knowing what it was.

"Medicine; although it may indeed help Natsuki, it only covers your issues for a time." Shizuru uttered quietly. She regarded the Gakuenchou in a silent manner, choosing her words carefully. "... In some cases, without even realising, you may change in personality."

Over these past few months of watching Natsuki recover, Shizuru had noticed it. These such traits hadn't been present for a long while. But since the coma… since this HiME business…

"Ah…" Perhaps that was what had been happening when she suddenly felt drained, or angry? "But, the medicine would help, even a little?" Natsuki prompted further, stepping closer to Shizuru. "If anything… I need to get back on it." She nodded firmly, though looked to the elder for guidance.

"If Natsuki feels this would help, I will trust her in this." Shizuru confirmed. It wasn't like she was about to deny the younger otome. Nor did she have the heart to even consider this. Guiding Natsuki's hands into her own, Shizuru wet her lips, then continued. "How about we speak to Yohko once the Hexade meeting has finished?"

Keeping quiet for a moment, Natsuki smiled to the elder. "Okay. We should get back there quickly, at any rate." She chuckled, squeezing Shizuru's hands. She lifted them, brushing the knuckles against her lips. "Before Miss Maria hounds and finds us…"

Knowing the epitome, she probably thought they were doing something else.

"She sounds disappointed." The Archmeister snickered under her breath, squeezing Natsuki's hands. In the spare of the moment, she chuckled also, mindlessly stroking younger's knuckles.

At the back of her mind upon doing so, Shizuru realised something. Natsuki's knuckles were as rough as her hands.

"Well, not to say I didn't want more alone time with you…" Natsuki flushed, gently letting go of Shizuru's hands. "But, I'm sure we will be alone later." The Gakuenchou grinned, giving a cheeky sweep of the elder with her eyes.

Crimson widening, Shizuru flushed as Natsuki opened the door and exited first. Oh, Natsuki was in for quite the time if she initiated a tease…

"I am sure she would trip over her fine little… statue again." Shizuru murmured silently, floating after the other woman.

"No mentions of that." Natsuki snapped gently, jabbing her thumb to the elder. Cheeks flared, she tried to sober up as they returned to the group. One of these days this woman would truly be her death. Whether positively, or negatively she didn't want to know.

"Of what?" The prying tone of Shizuru's voice drifted into her ears.

Natsuki knew exactly what the Archmeister was attempting. It was… her own way of helping Natsuki to forget. In a way it was charming. When she wasn't a blushing wreck, that was.

"Exactly." The younger lifted a hand, palm patting along Shizuru's cheek. She rounded the corner, met immediately with the hawkish gaze of the epitome. Miss Maria's eyebrows were twitching; A sign of great impatience.

Her focus entirely upon the epitome, Natsuki couldn't help but notice Akane was now missing. It was understandable, seeing that the star pupil hadn't wanted to join the Hexade.

Unconsciously, and much to her misfortune, the Gakuenchou flushed. Clearing her throat against her fist, she veered her gaze to Shizuru quickly. The elder appeared more amused as ever. Her hands were clasped before her, a brow quirking for only a given moment.

"...I expect none of you to be cocky." Miss Maria firmly spoke to the students. Her suspicion never drifted from the two columns, however, emerald narrowing. "Zhang." She transferred her gaze to the fiery redhead. "Remember whose shoes you're standing in. Monica Julen might be our enemy now, but she was to be the Hexade leader; and essentially, the fourth column."

Juliet's eyes widened, her face contorting to faint surprise. Not only did she not know that, but now wondered. Had she always been a choice to be the column? She slowly nodded, if only to let the eldest know she was listening. She had a lot on her mind, now…

"Well, then… If we are done discussing?" Natsuki clasped her hands onto the back of her chair, standing behind it. Nina glanced to her, seemingly glad she had returned. Ocher flicked to the teal-haired student next before settling on the floor again.

That was… oddly cute? What had become of their little relationship, anyway? Not sure why, Natsuki realized she was very curious. Had they even… confessed?

With those two, she could never even guess. Let alone attempt to figure out their behaviour.

"I will be commencing the Hexade training." The epitome reported, capturing the room's attention once more. "Technically you don't class as students anymore, however. So Hexade training will be full time studying."

Listening, but surveying the room, Natsuki realised something else. Yohko was nowhere to be seen- not that she had seen her when in here last time. The machinery surrounding the lab never helped this feat. But she heard nothing of typing.

Perhaps she was checking up on Mai, and Sara? But without Yohko around, how would she get her medication? Grumbling under her breath, she glanced at Shizuru. The Gakuenchou supposed she was stuck down here for a while longer.

"Hexade will only become official once Zhang has gained her column rites. So until then, please do make sure to keep this in the utmost of secrecy." Trancing her eyes along each student, Miss Maria murmured quietly. "For our own sakes."

"Yes, Miss Maria." The group spoke in unison, Natsuki absentmindedly joining. She cleared her throat and pretended not to have done so; A gaze from Shizuru telling her that it hadn't worked.

Chie snickered softly, wringing an arm around Tomoe's neck. "Oh, my kohai, joined with me in a secret society… This is totally like one of Nao's books, huh?"

"...How do you know what she has?" Tomoe muttered, leaning away from the elder, and glancing down at her limb. Why was her Oneesama so touchy-feely? Feeling the burn of Miss Maria's hawking gaze, the amethyst inwardly groaned. "You've been watching way too many police dramas again, Chie Oneesama."

"Perhaps." Chie snickered, pulling the younger closer. "Oi… so what's between you and Wang anyway? Do you need some advice?" The older girl's brows waggled, a cheesy grin taking over her face.

Natsuki turned to Shizuru, stifling a smirk. "You do remember we bet on their fight, right? We both… lost. What do you think the consequences should be?"

"I wonder." Shizuru discreetly chuckled, evading Miss Maria's detection. How, Natsuki would never know.

"Hallard." Miss Maria pointedly stared. The notion was exchanged with a relaxed glance from Chie. The student didn't relent on her hold on an awkward Tomoe, simply nodding.

"I expect your… flirtations to be less in the Hexade." The greying meister spoke slowly. Glancing between Chie, and Tomoe. Maria couldn't help but look towards Nina also, the student staring at the Trias member.

"I'm not flirting!" Chie grinned, squeezing Tomoe either way. "Besides, I've got a girl myself. Not in the Hexade." She smirked, finally letting the younger girl go. "I am merely attempting to pass my vast knowledge on to my kohai."

Natsuki stifled a snicker by biting her knuckle, clearing her throat. Chie was incredibly funny, and open. She was surprised the girl hadn't given Maria a heart attack by now…

Near the back, Shiho was staring at them in an almost baffled manner. Restraint was added to her posture as she continued this notion. Urgh, sexuals. Rolling her eyes, she shook her head.

Could she go already? She got it, she needed to… communicate with this lot. But she wasn't exactly needed right now, was she?

Watching Chie and Tomoe, Juliet slowly smirked. She shifted her chair closer to Nina, catching the other girl's attention. "Perhaps you have questions as well? It isn't like there is a full class on this… After all, Archmeister Viola doesn't teach."

That did it. Natsuki would have had to bite her finger off to hold back her laughter; Instead it peeled from her throat in a rough barking outburst. She couldn't even restrain herself, instead holding tight onto her stomach.

Shizuru's expression turned steely, the jab well done but deserving revenge. "Juliet should be careful with what she says in a public forum… After all, as a column, this means I can challenge her to butou at any moment."

"I would've thought you'd react positively to that." Nao snorted, leaning back into her chair. Nina's expression was priceless however, and she cackled. "Ask me anytime, Nina."

"S-shut up, Zhang! I'm not getting together w-"

"Oi, who's to say I wanted to get together with you anyway?!" Tomoe was far too quick to react, cheeks flaming up. Nina scoffed, glaring her down.

Natsuki sobered from her laughter, holding onto her stomach. That had been… Oh, Shizuru may be mad at her later, but it was worth it. Maria sighed raggedly, pinching the bridge of her nose.

Why was she always surrounded by les-

"I know you do!" Chie teased, grasping onto Tomoe's sleeves. She puppeted the girl's arms, amusing herself.

The amethyst appeared ready to explode, if not strike out at Chie. But Tomoe focused on glaring at Nina, her brow twitching upon the manhandling. Why, why was this always the case? She could practically hear Chie, and Nao smirking in her direction. Let alone feel her annoyance skyrocket upon Shiho's grumbling.

"Remember to touch her ba-"

"Do you want me to knock you out?!" Tomoe snapped, prying her arms out from the elder's hold.

"She's a feisty one, Nina." Chie teased, wrapping her arms tight around Tomoe instead. She pinned the younger girl's arms to her sides, much to her annoyance. "You'll have a time trying to be with her."

"I have a time just fine with her now." Nina dryly responded, running her fingers over her cast. Her hand was starting to throb again…

Maybe it was in response for wanting to shut Tomoe up?

"This meeting is over!" Maria fired, eyebrows twitching almost in anger, but mostly frustration, and exhaustion. There was no way she could break this up. Nor was she going to try. Turning on her heel, she pinched her nose again, before regarding the columns. "Helene wishes to speak with you both. She is in the ward with Tokiha and Gallagher."

With the words barely escaping the epitome's mouth, Shiho made a hesitant move to stand. Could she go then? She was utterly desperate to get out of here. Taking another eyeful of the group, she only groaned inwardly.

She had to work with this lot?

"You can go, Shiho." Natsuki seemed to sense her distress, and spared her with a smile. What did Yohko have to tell them…? She glanced towards Shizuru, tilting her head towards the area of the ward. Whatever it was, she wanted to find out immediately.

The student blinked in surprise, but didn't hesitate to disperse. Within those few moments, the Florentine had left, grateful for the advantage. Miss Maria followed after her shortly, the epitome pinching her nose once more.

"You five… behave." Natsuki pointed to the group, gesturing Shizuru follow after her. She needed to check up on Mai at either rate, may as well kill two birds with one stone. Nearing the ward, she inhaled sharply and set a hand onto the door.

"Surely you know that's like asking a child to not stick their hand into the cookie jar?" Shizuru asked, falling into step by the Gakuenchou's side. She motioned for the younger otome to pause, clasping a palm to Natsuki's shoulder. "I would think it would be best to speak with Yohko once having finished with Mai." She murmured, knowing exactly what was on Natsuki's mind.

"...Perhaps you're right." The younger murmured, raising a hand to her brow. No matter what had happened, she still deeply cared for Mai. Not in the same way as before, but…

"Then, will you enter first?"

If she overcame the first hurdle, then she was sure she'd be fine.

"Of course." The elder floated in front of her, fingertips sliding from Natsuki as she did so. Prying the door open subtly, she gazed inside the room momentarily. Much to Shizuru's suspicion, the doctor was indeed there.

"Yohko is checking Mai over." She spoke, opening the door.

Nodding, Natsuki settled by the wall and sighed. She hoped Sara was doing better, at least. Had Mai woken yet? Surely not, she would have been notified without a doubt. Gazing down to the stone beneath her shoes, Natsuki furrowed her brows.

The anxiety only deepened, before Shizuru's hand met her shoulder again. The larger hand squeezed gently, luring Natsuki's focus back.

"It will be fine once you speak to them."

"Ah… Yes. Is Yohko finished?" Natsuki turned to face the elder, smiling up to her. Perhaps with what Yohko needed them for, she could ask about her medication? Did she need a new… prescription, dose even? She had no fathoming of it whatsoever.

"I would not know, Natsuki." The elder tuckled. "Perhaps she should ask Yohko herself?" Shizuru guided them forward evermore, gradually reaching Sara's side.

The blonde was fragile, but seeming somewhat better. For how long she had stayed by Mai's side, it was probably since the invasion.

It was strange to see Sara in such a state. The alpha column was one of their most hardy meister. But with so much stress stacking up against the Ariesian, a breakdown had been imminent.

Natsuki, and Sara truly were more alike than people realised.

But perhaps this was what Natsuki needed, Shizuru wondered? She observed the Gakuenchou closely, the younger column unable to choose who to speak with. Even with Yohko watching her expectantly, Natsuki seemed to still have difficulty.

"You wish to speak with us?" Shizuru asked, drifting a hand to Sara's shoulder this time.

"I did, I do, and I am." Yohko seemed fond of being confusing. Natsuki's brows lowered into an exasperated expression, her arms crossing.

"At any rate, the answer is yes." The doctor seemed amused with her expression, gesturing they step from the ward.

"Mai is doing wonderfully. She is healing well." She genuinely spoke, making sure to direct the statement more towards the Gakuenchou. "Now, come… We need to talk." Yohko seemed more somber, leading them from the ward.

"But she hasn't woke." Sara mumbled under her breath as they ventured away. Whether the others had heard, she didn't know. Nor was she sure if she cared or not. Piping down her attention from the women, she brought her gaze back down to Mai.

The elder had been moved into a normal medical bed. It was truly a sign of positivity, something she should hold relief for. But it didn't help her rising fears.

"I have the prototypes…" Yohko spoke slowly, shoving her hands into her pockets. She glanced at the blonde Ariesian from their position inside the corridor. The doors automatically swung closed after them, blocking the view to Sara, and Mai.

"For the armour?" So much had happened between their plans; Coal brows perking in excitement, Natsuki took a step forwards. "Two for each of us to try, light, and heavy?"

Shizuru hid blatant amusement from Natsuki's reaction, focusing on the doctor once more. These prototypes would prove useful, seeing as there seemed to be a war over their heads. She was sure that with such powerful gear at their disposal, this would be an advantage.

Of course this wouldn't warn any organizations, or countries from fighting them, however. Humans simply never learned from history.

"I am assuming Mayha, and Sara are not well enough for this?" Shizuru asked, the doctor nodding.

"And I have not yet finished with Juliet's. I'll need more measurements." Yohko watched Natsuki bristle, and chuckled lowly. The Gakuenchou noticed they were more or less in private, and stepped forward to speak.

"Yohko… We were discussing earlier of my, ah, condition? I was wondering if I could be put back onto my medication?" Natsuki kept her voice low; Not ashamed yet not wanting outside ears.

There was a genuine look of surprise upon Yohko's face at this point. She hummed, slipping a hand out of her pocket. "You remembered?" She stroked her knuckles to her lips, arching a brow. Or perhaps had the Archmeister explained everything? She peered over to the younger woman, eyes settling upon crimson. "..."

Now what Shizuru didn't realise, was her masked emotion wasn't thick enough against Yohko. Even as the Archmeister eased her hands to her front once more, an unsettled feeling swarmed her. Yet never once did she force her gaze from the elder's. If anything, she challenged the brunette.

"... I can't immediately put you onto your old dose." Yohko spoke, sweeping her gaze from Shizuru's at last.

"What can you put me on?" Natsuki pressed the issue, trying not to seem as desperate as she felt. It didn't help that she had vividly noticed her personality switching during her conversation with Shizuru. It had felt so… strange. Almost as if she had become angry with the elder.

"I… I just need something to suppress it." Natsuki lowered her gaze, raising a hand to the nape of her neck. Was this exacerbated by the incident, or… stifled? You weren't even supposed to be aware of a change in your personality, right? Was this really-

"Did I say I wasn't recommending you to go back onto medication?" Yohko pointedly spoke, getting straight to the point. Looking both women over once more, she gestured them closer. "There's the medication for anxiety, depression, and the like." Entering the lab, and the main platform, she drifted towards the centre-most desk. "The medication would naturally take time. Nano-machines don't like them."

"Of course." Natsuki followed after her, looking back to make sure Shizuru was too. "Still, as long as it will help. Then, we can get to the armour. I'm actually very excited to try it out."

"Of course you are…" Yohko chuckled softly, searching through her drawers. Now, where was it?

Within this large drawer, a hefty folder was eased from it. Bring it down onto the desk, she murmured to the two meister. "You may as well find seats. This might take a while."

As in a while, this meant a good hour at least, in Yohko's language.

Groaning, Natsuki grumbled under her breath. "Figures." It was just never all that simple, was it? Wetting her lips, she shook her head. It wasn't like they were doing anything, anyway.

"Natsuki is impatient." Shizuru bit, spotting a couple of chairs. They were stacked up neatly in an idle corner. Fortunately for them, no machinery was blocking their route towards them.

"I didn't know this would take a while." Natsuki bit back, heading for the corner. She grasped one chair,setting it down. Securing the other towards the center, she sat into it, and crossed her arms. "I'm starting to get a headache." She murmured, raising a hand to rub the bridge of her nose.

Their day had been so busy already, and it had barely truly begun. Not to mention she kept thinking of last night… Color rose in her cheeks before she could stop herself, and Natsuki sighed softly.

Before she could even stop herself, she was whisked away in her own imagination. Why were their times together always so… desirably hot? She didn't know why precisely, nor did she care. It was a frustrating case however, because Natsuki simply wanted to-

"I think I know what Natsuki is thinking. Perhaps she should sober before Yohko catches her?" A tease. Yet all the more so, the Gakuenchou was sure Shizuru was taking amusement in her torment.

Clearing her throat loudly to drown out the whisper, Natsuki closed her eyes. A deep inhale and she managed to sober her expression, though the heat was fading slowly. What was it about Shizuru that made her mind utterly useless?

It wasn't just thinking about sex, either. Thinking about even the most mundane things, yet that included Shizuru, were… Taking another breath, she calmed herself and opened her eyes.

Perhaps she was obsessed to a degree? But it wasn't like she was clingy- or was she? Silently, and lost in her thoughts, Natsuki watched Yohko. The doctor's back faced her, the elder drifting a finger down the pages of the folder.

With Shizuru settled beside her, the Archmeister's presence soothed her. This had always been something Natsuki had noticed, especially during the time of her recovery. Having Shizuru beside her was like a light in the darkness.

Maybe this was the reason she felt such sensations? The older column was her rock, guardian, partner, mentor… She was far too many things for Natsuki to even describe.

Reaching over for Shizuru, she grasped her hand to hold. The elder looked down, a little surprised. With a smile, she squeezed Natsuki's hand to assure her. Whatever the younger was thinking, she hoped it was at least positive.

Though, with Natsuki's blush, Shizuru was sure it was.

"We will start small, then gradually work from there." Yohko spoke, capturing their attention. Having finally found the file belonging to the Gakuenchou, she slipped it out of the folder. "The doses were daily; two pills a day." Turning, she handed the medical records to Natsuki, figuring she'd want to see it.

Yohko believed that Natsuki would certainly be interested in this archive of information.

Shizuru seemed to almost want to snatch it away, but didn't. Natsuki grasped the file, reading it as she listened. "Two pills every day…?" That seemed excessive, but so did her… disorder.

Actually, it didn't seem so bad. Surely, it could have been worse; Say… An injection. Pills, she could definitely handle.

Who else knew about this though, and was she professionally diagnosed? Although being in Garderobe, she was pretty sure she would be. Natsuki couldn't imagine being able to slip through the net just like that. Especially when Yohko was here.

"Say…" She murmured, flicking through the pages. "...Am I diagnosed?" Glancing at Shizuru through the corner of her eye, Natsuki mused. How had it become apparent of her disorder? "I can't find any pages regarding it."

"It was quite difficult. You have many facets for it, yet because of your position, we have kept the profile low. You are diagnosed, but not down on paper." Yohko explained, and Natsuki nodded slowly. She could understand that.

"So you are sure that I indeed have this disorder?" Asking, the Gakuenchou was answered with another nod.

Off the top of her mind, she wondered just how many people knew. Surely her old teachers such as Miss Maria knew? Resting the back of her fingers to her lips, she frowned. "Does…" Removing her palm away from her mouth, Natsuki continued. "Miss Maria know?"

Truthfully she was curious. The epitome had been the one to appoint her as Gakuenchou those years ago. If the elderly otome had known at the time…

"She does. There is no hiding anything from Maria." Yohko sounded amused. "She knew before and has always known since."

"Oh?" Huh… Natsuki wondered if the epitome could sense these things. Surely that was impossible? But then again, coming from Miss Maria, it wouldn't surprise her in the least. There was simply no way of defeating the epitome.

Natsuki was also pretty sure Shizuru had problems with her.

"Helene…?"

"Did you hear anything?" Yohko called out, serious for a moment. She looked over her shoulder, narrowing her eyes towards beyond a machine.

"A-ah… No?" Irina's voice seemed shy, but not lying.

Hang on. Natsuki glanced over her shoulder at the student, then drifted her gaze to Shizuru. Why exactly were they even having a private conversation here? Sure the machines added as a cover, but even so-

"I was wondering when, or if we'll get any boosters?" Irina asked. They surely were, weren't they? The Hexade were just under the columns, so it'd be understandable to get more powerful nano-machines.

Besides, she'd rather be here, than over there. What with Chie, and Nao pestering Tomoe, and Nina…

"Not anytime soon, but I'll be developing a different strain. Once Juliet is fully appointed, they should be ready." Yohko answered with a nod, tilting her head. "You came to get away from those four, didn't you?"

"That obvious?" Irina flushed faintly, shifting her legs. "I don't want to go back up yet, but I see you're busy still."

Those four were always so relentless when they started ruffling one another's feathers. Irina enjoyed teasing her friends, but those lot were so overbearing at times. She was certainly in for an experience, what with being a Hexade member now.

"Unfortunately, I am. Why don't you go into one of the rooms, and set us up another dungeon?" Yohko offered, watching the younger brighten up.

"Seems somebody has given up always trying to be anti-social…" Natsuki drawled, watching the student slink away. But she did have to admit, it was sort of cute. For as long as Natsuki could remember, Yohko had rarely interacted with anyone.

The two did seem to be rather… similar in particular traits.

"Irina is a challenge." Yohko shrugged, chuckling. "Now then... About your prescription?"

A challenge even for Helene? Brushing the thought aside, the Gakuenchou nodded eagerly.

"Natsuki is rather happy, considering she used to hate her medication." Shizuru murmured. She was a foot or two away from the Gakuenchou. So instead, she stood, and strode towards the younger otome. "Do you feel better knowing?"

The Archmeister didn't take mind to Yohko listening. Having Natsuki's thoughts spoken here would be good for the doctor to hear anyway. Currently, was Natsuki feeling positive, negative, or borderline about this?

Shizuru smiled, taking to the Gakuenchou's side.

"I do feel better knowing. Makes me glad that I'm not going crazy." Natsuki smiled, taking Shizuru's hand. "So, when is the earliest I can get back onto the medication?" She shifted, obviously eager.

It would be more complicated than that, of course it would. "As it won't be the same medication, I cannot guarantee that it may help in the way you expect." Yohko reminded, moving back to sifting through her drawer.

Just how much did she even have in that thing? Wasn't Yohko supposed to be one of the most… organised people in Garderobe? Although judging by the chaos in the lab, it seemed the doctor was the "tidy mess" type.

Yet it was done in such a way where no one would ever find something. Perhaps Yohko had done so on purpose? Maybe this was done so nobody would go snooping around in the lab?

Though trespassers reaching so far down into the academy was something yet to be seen.

"Archmeister, what are the Gakuenchou's current traits? Has she shown signs of heightened anxiety? Has she fallen depressed? Have there been cases of… swapping?" Yohko asked her, glancing to both women behind her shoulder.

"Ah…" Shizuru rose a hand, knuckles brushing the underside of her chin. "Anxiety, yes. I am unsure of whether she has shown signs of depression." She tilted her head, trying to think. "Only in her earlier stages of waking from the coma, I believe."

Natsuki felt odd to be talked about as if she weren't there; Fidgeting briefly with her cross-cravat as she took her hand from Shizuru's. She had often forgot she wore it, lately…

"However, I have noticed instances of her swapping. Just recently, actually. Before we came to speak with you." Shizuru informed, lacing her hands together just under her chin. What a cute pose, Natsuki thought; Smiling as she watched the elder lower her hands.

It was actually difficult for Shizuru to explain this properly. It wasn't that she didn't understand the traits. But instead, it was… hard to find the right words. Even if she found the correct definition to give Yohko, the Archmeister was still uncertain. There was just something about these medical conversations which seemed so difficult.

"Natsuki becomes… angry of sorts during this state." Shizuru added, running her thumb along the top of Natsuki's chair. "... There seems to be two forms." She watched her digit's nail scrape along the metal, then sighed. Relenting in the notion, she continued. "One is almost more… childlike? There is an immaturity, and intelligence which I cannot quite describe. Yet the other is much more pronounced. It is angry, and frustrated. It almost seems as if Natsuki is not even aware of what she is doing."

"I believe we were all witness to the latter when she challenged Mayha." Yohko nodded, pausing in her search. "Though… that personality is more worrying to me. Have you been witness to it again, since that?" She glanced over her shoulder to them, already presuming the answer.

Had she? "Not that I am aware of, actually." Shizuru looked to Natsuki, the younger shaking her head.

"I thought as much. It might be wrong, but physical damage might be the trigger for that personality." Yohko turned from the desk, having been tidying it up. At least, cleaning it for herself. It still looked a mess to Natsuki, but it wasn't her area to speak about.

"Perhaps a defence mechanism?" Yohko mused, turning to face them. Leaning to sit against the edge of her desk, her hands found her pockets. "Gakuenchou." She adjusted her gaze to the shorter woman. "Can you think of any general… fears?"

"I…" Natsuki stopped, raising her hand to her chin. "Shizuru being hurt?" Well, it was one of her fears. Mayha disrespecting her- No, there was a reason. "Losing my position due to being unable to hold it." Whether the reason be physically, emotionally, or mentally unable.

Naturally, she felt the burn of crimson against her. Shizuru was staring at her. Whether curiously, or in a concerned manner, Natsuki was sure both were significantly evident. "I'm always worried that-" Feeling the Archmeister's hands settle upon her shoulders reassuringly, she paused. Rising a palm to skim along slender fingers, Natsuki frowned.

Why was this suddenly easy to speak her mind? "-For whatever reason, everything would be taken from me."

Yohko crossed her arms, releasing a low hum. "So you are afraid of that, then." She nodded, sweeping her gaze over the Gakuenchou. "For your disorder, that is a common trait. Fear of rejection, and replacement."

Natsuki nodded, relieved to feel validated. "Thank you… Ah, but, weren't we going to try out the armour?" She perked up, the Archmeister stifling a small chuckle.

That quick of a change of mind? The doctor cocked a brow, but nodded anyhow. Vaulting forward from off her desk, she gestured the two to follow. As the pair ventured after her, she peered over the clutter of machinery.

Those four were still there. For whatever they were rambling about, she didn't know. Watching them for a silent moment, Yohko pondered. What would their GEMs be? If their membership was permanent, how strong would she make their nano-machines?

These were questions forever pitted within her mind.

"Stop going on about porn, you pervert."

"All I'm saying is, why read it if you're going to bitch? Obviously there are going to be other words than, say, pussy, fingering-" A slap resounded, and the voice only became muffled and inaudible.

Natsuki's brows twitched; Ears turning red as well as her face. Just what had that been? "We really need to discuss with… Zhang about her reading materials."

"My…" She heard Shizuru murmur quietly under her breath. "Quite the hypocrite."

Whether Yohko heard, or chose to ignore it, didn't help whatsoever. Natsuki glared into the medical-officer's back, a blush scaling her features harshly. Shizuru was right behind her, those eyes staring directly into her skull.

"Says the one who has a full collection." Natsuki hissed under her breath, shooting a pointed glance behind her.

Shizuru only met her with a wink and a sly wave. The wiggle of her fingers was not missed, either. Natsuki darkened more, returning her gaze towards Yohko's back. Her lover would literally be her death, it was decided. Not war, not disease; Shizuru.

307-333 A.R. Here lies the stressed Gakuenchou of Garderobe, Natsuki Kruger. Ensnared by her seductive Archmeister, the Bewitching Smile Amethyst; Shizuru Viola.

Pretty much. Shaking her head, she clamped her hands to her cheeks, trying in vain to stop the flush. The Viper's Snare…

Pulled from her thoughts, Natsuki managed to avoid stepping into Yohko. Shizuru had begun to hum, perhaps to regain her attention? She stood between them, brushing herself off idly. Yohko shrugged, having apparently turned on another machine. What was she doing with them all…?

The medical-officer began to lead them once more, down a set of stairs. "We'll need more space than this, of course."

Led down onto the ground floor, this was metallic, and blue. Within the centre, was the mainframe of the Fumi System. Surrounding it, were also thirteen pillars. Why precisely there were this many, Natsuki had no idea. Only five of them worked, these being for the columns, after all; And for some reason, whenever gazing upon them, she felt the sensation of…

Loss?

"Gakuenchou, Archmeister…" Having reached where she needed to, Yohko brought up a series of holographic displays. "I have prepared two prototypes for each of you; Light, and heavy armour. I am unsure of which would suit the both of you, so we shall try the light armour first. Please, refrain from doing too much damage."

Natsuki felt her GEM vibrate with a new initiative, and almost jumped when the armour began to appear on her body. It was almost as if her robe was summoned! Unfortunately, it wasn't. Lifting a hand, now gloved with the almost exoskeletal armour, she gazed with amazement.

It was silver in colour, but at the same time translucent. In appearance, it was quite the oddity. Natsuki wondered whether this was in the norm, and looking at Shizuru, it indeed was.

Their exoskeletons wrapped around their bodies much alike to how their robes did so. Except it was more bulky, and glass-like. In all the vital areas they stretched around the body, encasing it. But in areas which needed flexibility, such as the armpits, they were left.

It felt strange- cold. There was even an energy which Natsuki could sense. It reminded her of her GEM, yet only distantly.

"Wow." She spoke, only now noticing that a helmet had appeared as well. Her voice echoed softly inside, and it irritated her. "Yohko, these are amazing, but can you dismiss my helmet?" She asked, raising both hands.

"I aim to please." The doctor chuckled, pulling up the Gakuenchou's vitals and doing so. "Can you try coating it with your crystal? When was the last time you used it?"

"Oh… I actually can't really remember." Natsuki looked to Shizuru, tilting her head. When was the last time she had conjured any of the crystal?

Hadn't it been with the… Shinso? Oh, right. She had made that little statue hadn't she? Natsuki wondered if the Founder took interest to it. Though judging Fumi was an AI, she wasn't so sure.

But then again, the Shinso was the best of the best.

"When we had Zhang appointed as the fourth column, I used it then. I made the Shinso a statue." Natsuki murmured, still rather in awe over the armour. "This is the light version, yes?"

"Mm, you both are equipped with the light prototype. I doubt, however, this class will suit you." Yohko warned, the Gakuenchou nodding. In her opinion, she wasn't sure the light would be her style, either.

Focusing, Natsuki lowered one hand and focused on her left. Inhaling slowly, frost began to build up near her lips. In an impressive show, she exhaled onto her armoured hand; Crystal encompassing over the transparent armour. Given the nature of the exoskeletal shell, the ice was now iridescent.

The Archmeister, though encased in identical armour, simply watched the younger woman. As ever, she studied Natsuki closely, glancing briefly down to her own exoskeleton with interest.

This was certainly a higher-grade of technology. Materialising a secondary coating wasn't new, but it had always held risks. Were the nano-machines within this transparent plating the same as their robes? Or was it a different build?

Understandably there would be consequences with a newer, or older build. And perhaps this was the reason her robe hadn't been materialised in the process.

Sliding a thumb across the smooth protective tech, Shizuru continued to watch ice coat Natsuki's exoskeleton. "Are the nano-machines the same as the ones from our GEMs? Or are they a di-... Natsuki?" The thumb paused, and Shizuru frowned.

"What's happening…?!" The Gakuenchou began to panic; The crystal coating her hand having spread to her body. It had seeped through the armour, and began to creep up to her face.

Yohko balked, running diagnostics on the holographic interface. "T-the light armour is designed to adapt to elemental changes for its primary use as stealth armour!" It seemed the explanation had been too late; Natsuki being completely encased in a ball of ice.

Shizuru stared. It was all she could as her heart erupted into rushed beats. A dread filtered into her stomach, and brain, never relenting. Natsuki wa- The surrounding noise muted within Shizuru's eardrums as she neared Natsuki hesitantly.

Had she been aware of the impact, Shizuru would've realised she was on her knees.

T-this couldn't be happening… right?

The pose which Natsuki had been frozen in was quite… terrifying. The fear on her face… Even her hair had been frozen, and without her helmet on…? Shizuru could barely keep herself upright, wanting to cling but afraid of breaking. What… what could they do? What would she do?

"Oi, Kruger! Irina wants to know if she can take your character sheet- What the…?" Nao had intruded upon the suddenly quiet space, the others following behind her.

If their attention was supposed to solely be upon the Gakuenchou, it wasn't. Nao, and Chie gazed down to an almost broken Shizuru. They paid no attention to Tomoe, Nina, and the others almost bumping into them.

Was the Archmeister… crying? Shizuru had shot her gaze behind her shoulder upon their arrival. Lips quivered, a dampness of tears trailing down her che-

"S-Shizuru, get me out of here already!" The voice abruptly invaded Shizuru's ears, and immediately relief flowed into her being. Twisting around, and pulling herself up to her feet, the Archmeister focused on her entirely.

"N-Natsuki!" Shizuru practically sobbed, the thin layer of ice having shattered enough for the Gakuenchou to speak.

"Shizuru!" Natsuki was, of course, very impatient about this. She was frozen! Having seen Shizuru break down like that, however… That was worse.

Nao stared, bursting into laughter as she pointed. "I always knew you were icy, Kruger, but- No, wait! Kruski!" The redhead bumped into Chie from laughing, already weak. Irina bolted to Yohko's side, the two of them trying their hardest to free the Gakuenchou.

Nina stared, shifting before she delved a hand into Nao's pocket, taking her nail file. "We could try this?" She offered, seeing as no one else had much to contribute.

"O-oi, don't be frisking me, Wang. You have Marguerite for that!" A faint blush swarmed across Nao's features, but it was mostly ignored.

"I do no such thing!" Nina snapped, pushing past her. The other Hexade members except Irina, Nao and Tomoe following.

"Just get me out already?!" Natsuki screeched at them, forcing Nao to tear her gaze from a glaring Tomoe.

She was starting to panic; Anxiety levels rising. It was evident, the alarm of her vitals starting to sound from Yohko's display. Nina scrambled over, being careful with Shizuru as she stabbed into the ice with the file.

"Ah, Archmeister, could you help?" She asked, shaking Shizuru from her reverie once more. The others were starting to fidget, not having witnessed Natsuki in such a fragile state before.

Before they had managed to even do a thing however, the rest of the ice shattered. The Gakuenchou stumbled, dead-weighting, and was barely caught by an alarmed Shizuru.

"N-Natsuki?" The column roughly whispered, caring not for the stares around them. Natsuki was crumpled against her, and she caressed her fingers across the younger's cheeks. She was far too zoned out to care about her visible emotion. Let alone the impact of footsteps near them.

"You are cold." She spoke the obvious, tugging Natsuki close to her own body.

"I-I'm freezing!" Natsuki muttered, barely even able to shiver. Her vitals were still screaming, and Yohko had to eventually mute the interface.

"Hallard, Marguerite, go fetch the warm blankets. Wang, there's a thermos in the main console." Yohko ordered, brows furrowing. How had she not thought ahead and assumed this would happen?!

The rushing of footsteps only relented once the Hexade members returned. Blankets were quickly draped across the Gakuenchou's frosty body. The thermos was also handed to Yohko, Nina passing the drinking flask over.

Natsuki, though still incredibly stressed, leaned entirely against Shizuru. Her arms were limply around Shizuru, the elder having adjusted her. "I'm… I feel better. Sort of." She muffled into the Archmeister's hair.

What had even… happened? She could feel the sting of ice against her eyebrows, and skin. Even her hair felt damp, the crystal probably melting by now. Thinking was completely out of the question for her currently. But even so, the imagery of Shizuru's breakdown plunged into her brain.

"Drink up." Yohko advised, walking the flask over. It was taken by the Archmeister immediately; Her free hand cupping under Natsuki's chin to open her mouth. Unable, and unwilling to resist, the hot tea coated her tongue and poured down her throat. Steam rose from her lips; Her body being so cold that the heat of the tea turned mildly warm.

It had helped, and Natsuki's cheeks regained color. She shuddered after draining the flask, brows cluttered with tiny snowflakes.

The Hexade members were as awkward as ever around them. So much in fact, Yohko grumbled. "All of you, get out of here. Give the Gakuenchou some room." Sure the otome would be fine, she touched her fingers upon her earpiece.

Connecting the small device to the mainframe, the doctor quickly uttered. "Miss Maria, the Gakuenchou has had an accident regarding the exoskeleton prototypes." Directing a hand for Irina to follow after the others, she trailed away from the columns. "No. She is recovering."

Natsuki shivered, gripping onto Shizuru. She tried hard to control her breathing; A long inhale, then a ragged exhale. It was hard to keep this pace when the shivers escalated to a violet tremble; The warmth of the blankets, and Shizuru settling her at ease finally.

"You… were really scared." Natsuki finally spoke again, curled up against the elder. She hadn't seen Shizuru so utterly helpless in such a long time. This was even worse than when she had left for her first mission…

The Archmeister didn't answer her. The only notion from her was the sliding of fingertips. Shizuru skimmed her digits along Natsuki's back, blankets covering damp clothing. Her mouth was still pressed into dark locks, Shizuru closing her eyes, and frowning.

"I thought I had lost you." She breathed at last, her nose touching the Gakuenchou's cool cheek.

Natsuki sighed, reaching her hand out to grasp onto the ends of Shizuru's hair. "Not to alarm you, but you almost did." If the crystal hadn't broken to allow her to speak, she would have frozen to death. Forcing the macabre thought from her mind, she nuzzled against the elder.

"...I'm really tired, now." The younger broke the silence again, releasing another cold breath. "Can we… go to bed?"

"I-I must admit, I feel much warmer now…" Natsuki flushed, lying on her back in the bed. They were back within their dorm quarters, having persuaded Yohko to let them stay here. The medical-scientist had insisted they stay in the ward, but…

Tilting her head to stare at Shizuru's nude back, her blush intensified.

Shizuru was sitting up, with her legs over the side of the bed. She turned slightly, and glanced over her shoulder to Natsuki. "...I am glad." She murmured quietly, guiding her hand towards Natsuki's cheek. Abruptly, she changed her mind, gliding her digits to the Gakuenchou's hair. "You are not cold, are you, Natsuki?"

"H-huh?" The younger stared up, confused. "No… I said I felt warmer." Was something wrong with Shizuru? She was never so… odd afterwards. Sitting up, Natsuki sat closer. "Are you alright?"

"I'm…" Gazing into Natsuki's eyes, Shizuru's posture sank. She angled her body properly once more, Natsuki's front close to her back. "A lot has happened, and…" Wetting her lips, her brow furrowed.

Her front burned. Skittering her fingertips to her right hipbone, she stared off into space.

She had watched Natsuki almost die in front of her. Of course she didn't feel well.

"..." Frowning, the younger brushed her lips against Shizuru's shoulder. "Hey… I need you not to shut down." She gently spoke, wrapping an arm around the elder. "If you were to disappear, I…" Well, there wouldn't be anything to hold her anger in check, would there?

"Ah, does your hip hurt?" Natsuki tried to change the subject; No good scenario held within. She turned Shizuru to face her, brows furrowed.

There was a weary expression pasted to Shizuru's features. All through the episode of her freezing, and their time spent here... - "It does hurt. It stings." Shizuru murmured, planting a hand atop Natsuki's once it covered her pelvis.

Had she gained a physical reaction to almost losing Natsuki? The question firmly bolted within Shizuru's mind. They remained in this position silently, stark naked. Drifting her eyes down to the pile of clothing by her feet, Shizuru sighed at last.

"I think I might be depressed." She chuckled humorlessly, tilting her head back onto Natsuki's shoulder.

Surely with such emotion, she should be grateful Natsuki was still with her? Certainly she should feel happiness instead of negativity upon the younger's survival?

"..." Furrowing her brows, Natsuki pressed her lips to the side of Shizuru's head. "Mm... It's okay; I understand." And she did. It was hard in situations as such; though they had needed the physical intimacy to draw them back from the depths. But they were still in shallow water- at risk. "You had better let me see." Natsuki murmured, pressing just gently where her palm covered. The skin there felt... Rough.

It was barely against the tip of Shizuru's hipbone, and partially on her toned abdomen. Suddenly, a realisation hit Natsuki, and she stretched over Shizuru to see better.

The marking was a gash of sorts. It almost appeared to look like a love bite, but Natsuki was certain it wasn't. Was this a… "... Shizuru, does it burn?" She murmured in question, trailing her short nails across the irritation.

Even the surrounding skin was a pale red. It screamed all the signs Natsuki had obtained with her HiME mark- yet could it be true? Was Shizuru a…?

"It does." It seemed the Archmeister caught on as well, turning fully towards Natsuki. She lifted her hand, feeling for the younger's mark as well. "Is it...?" If it were true, what could it possibly mean? Past lives...? A warning for the future?

It all seemed so very unlikely. Impossible, even. Yet why did Shizuru believe this wasn't the case? Something felt wrong about this- like her mind was trying to warn her about something. But what could it possibly be?

"It doesn't look like it's formed yet, but…" Natsuki stared at the rash, wondering how she had missed it. Maybe it had been because they had been within the heat of the moment? They had no time to think, after all.

"That's definitely a HiME mark." She finished, running her thumb over it. How... Odd. It was almost as if these markings chose their hosts so carefully yet still at random. It was an organised chaos, if that made any sense.

Was this the definition of the HiME? To be a controlled scatter shot, in a way?

"But… why?" Shizuru mused, studying the marking as well. The faintest trace of blue was upon it- certainly this was a marking. Yet she couldn't believe it at the same time. Why her? In fact, why them?

Was there some kind of… system? Once a HiME became apparent, did it spread to people the HiME knew?

"Blue..." Natsuki had noticed the faint hint of color as well, and eased back to survey her own mark. If there was more color to it now, did that mean...?

What? That she was fully awakening? Did HiME even do such a thing? Did it mean a… CHILD?

Feeling her own marking didn't give any sensation. Yet the moment Natsuki did so to Shizuru again- there was a warm feeling. What was this reaction? Halting her fingertips against the Archmeister's hip, Natsuki paused. "... We need more information about this. I don't think the Shinso was explaining everything."

"We do need to investigate further about this." Shizuru agreed, sighing softly. Perhaps this is why she had felt so odd for the past few days? Of course, the image of Natsuki frozen solid was stuck in her mind. A sunken feeling swarmed her stomach, and the elder felt her shoulders slump.

Natsuki let the sheets pool at her feet as she stood, stepping closer to Shizuru. "Maybe we both need to get on that medication?" She meant it as a tease, though it didn't seem a bad idea.

"I would much rather Natsuki have them. She needs the medication more than I."

Of course Shizuru would say that.

Still sat, the elder peered up to Natsuki. Unable to remove the memory forever plugged into her mind, she leant forward. Everything which had happened, was this for the best, Shizuru wondered? She rested her forehead to the Gakuenchou's stomach, and remained there. "Have we guided Garderobe in the right direction? Did I do something wrong?"

The Archmeister couldn't help but feel things may have been different. Yet what could they do now? Gripping Natsuki's forearms, she sighed restlessly.

"No, Shizuru… Everything you've done since rising into your position has been for the better. For Garderobe, and the entirety of the Nations included." Natsuki murmured, running her hands over the elder's back. "You've done nothing wrong. In fact… a reaction such as this was a long time coming."

She leaned down to kiss the top of the elder's head. Fingers sifting through tawny hair, Natsuki sighed. "We all have limits, and we all break." She massaged along Shizuru's shoulders, humming lowly to herself.

"Do you feel like going out? I think we need to get out of Garderobe."

Closing her eyes against Natsuki, Shizuru nodded silently. She hooked her arms around the Gakuenchou's waist mindlessly, pulling her closer. She felt all the more desperate to cling to Natsuki. Multiple times she had almost lost her- and now wasn't the last.

Shizuru knew this, and this was what she feared the most. If she lost Natsuki for real, then-

"Shizuru. I'm not leaving your side any time soon." Natsuki pulled back, kneeling to settle her hands onto the elder's shoulders. "Come on, let's get changed… We're escaping this campus."

"...Like your failed attempts when I caught you?" Lowly, Shizuru chuckled. She curled her arms, and rested her palms atop Natsuki's. "Perhaps this would help." But what if it didn't? What if something was right behind the corner? With a brow furrowing, Shizuru guided Natsuki's hands between them.

Although she trusted the Gakuenchou entirely, she couldn't help but dread something.

"Yes, except we won't be caught nor fail." Natsuki teased, letting Shizuru have her hands. "Let's get dressed, maybe it'll help?" She tilted her head, watching her. Seeing the elder like this was very scary, but she tried her best not to show it.

Shizuru needed her help, and that's all that mattered right now.

The minutes drifted by slothfully as they got ready. Notifying the others of their departure, they were more or less set. The only issue however, was Yohko. What would they do about the doctor's mistake?

Surely the older woman was feeling guilty for what happened? Perhaps she was even driving herself insane? Yohko was terrible with such things when something went wrong, after all.

"I must admit…" Shizuru breathed, deactivating her GEM's intercom. "I already feel better." Her back faced Natsuki, and her hand clasped to her own hip unconsciously.

She was horribly aware of what the rash symbolised. But she was so oblivious to what it truly meant to be a HiME. She felt… angry, depressed, anxious, in agony- yet joyful all at the same time.

What were these feelings? What did they indicate?

Whenever she thought of Natsuki as a HiME, she was… ah.

"That's good." Natsuki ran a brush through coal hair, admiring herself in the mirror. She pictured tiny glittering snowflakes in brows and eyelashes, tilting her head. If she hadn't have been so close to death, she may have looked beautiful. She kept that tidbit to herself, clearing her throat.

"Dressing and primping yourself apparently helps lighten ones mood…" She added, setting down the brush to smooth her brows. "Are you ready?"

But they needed to get out eventually, right? They couldn't stay cooped up in Garderobe like a king to his castle. Although the idea was highly tempting; but then again, Shizuru would've dragged her out.

Even if she had been kicking, and screaming in the process.

Still, it would be nice to get out… Natsuki held her head high, meandering by the door. Shizuru had to venture for an item, though she wasn't sure what it could be.

Natsuki perked up, and slipped her hands into her pockets. They were keys which Shizuru held, but her curiosity sparked even more.

What were these keys fo- a knock sounded at the door suddenly. It pulled the pair from their thoughts, and they glanced at each other.

Almost within second nature, the Archmeister went about brushing herself down. Adjusting her clothing, as if she wasn't presentable already, Shizuru inhaled. There was a nervous air about her, something which was highly uncharacteristic of her.

But given what they had gone through together, that wasn't surprising.

"Who could it be…?" Shizuru mused aloud, floating towards the door. Her awkward posture was hidden, but quite sloppily for the time being.

Natsuki quirked a brow, stepping closer to her. Who would be at their door, all the way up here-?

"Natsuki!" Saeko's voice called out, another hard knock to the door. "I know you're in there! Do not make me get Miyu to open this door!"

Groaning under her breath, Natsuki's shoulders sagged in response. It was her mother?! "Shizuru…" She murmured quietly, brushing past her. She felt the elder watch her, Natsuki clenching her hand to the door handle.

Luckily for their sakes they had cleared up after themselves… The upper windows were open as well. So hopefully the scent of sex was- flushing intensely, Natsuki hissed. "Just give me a minute."

Shizuru herself was unsure with what to say. Instead, she simply stood beside the younger column. If something was to happen, she would be here for Natsuki. But Saeko only meant well.

Feeling the heat of her cheeks, Natsuki tried to force it away. "Why in such a hurry, mother?" She asked, toying with the handle of the door. She opened it finally, flourishing her jacket a bit in shyness.

Saeko narrowed her eyes, arms crossed tight. "Where are you two off to?" She seemed distracted by their uniforms, pausing.

What had these two been…? Pushing the thought aside, Saeko continued. "I heard what had happened Natsuki! Why are you going?" She was flabbergasted, and concerned. She had barely gotten the news as it was!

Stricken with this worry, but suspicious also, she glanced between both women.

"Mother, ice is my element and I am fine!" Natsuki blurted out, face reddening. "It was just a simple… malfunction." She didn't want to dredge this up with Shizuru still feeling as she was.

"We are… going out to dinner, tonight. We just need to get out of Garderobe." Natsuki rose a hand, rubbing at her temple. This was starting to aggravate her, but it was just her mother… No doubt having been scared over the news.

"I'm sorry you weren't told earlier, but I'm fine."

But that was the thing, wasn't it? Saeko hadn't even been told. The elder Kruger quieted, appearing thoughtful. Her arms crossed tighter around herself, and she glanced up to Miyu. The gynoid having been by her side this whole time. "... Alright, Natsuki." She murmured silently.

Regarding both women, the CEO's brows furrowed. "So you're going, just like that?"

There was an unmistakable air around Shizuru which Saeko had picked up on. There was something hinted, but she couldn't put her finger on it. These two were hiding something. Saeko knew this.

She gave up however, her shoulders sagging. "Tell me when you get back, at least." Saeko shot, drifting her focus upon Shizuru. "Make sure she doesn't go and get herself lost."

"I can navigate." Natsuki huffed, crossing her arms. Miyu gazed over the Gakuenchou, garnering her attention. The gynoid moved forward, buttoning Natsuki's trousers and fixing her belt.

"You should not dress so quickly as to be so sloppy." Miyu spoke, a hint of a smirk behind an emotionless facade.

"Goodbye." Natsuki grasped Shizuru's hand, exiting around the other two. Her face was burning! Stupid belt, why hadn't she noticed? At least Shizuru softly chuckled at her embarrassment…

"Natsuki! Such indecent hours with her wife!"

"Goodbye. Mother." Natsuki grit her teeth, staring dead-ahead of them. Why was it always like this?! Why did her mother live to embarrass her?! Why was Shizuru laughing?! "Don't you start now!" She yapped at the Archmeister, flushing brightly.

Why was it just so- argh!

Exiting from the office quarters, and heading down the ruined pathway, she calmed. But only just.

"Shizuru… why does my mother live to torment me so?"

"A mother lives and thrives to do so, Natsuki." Shizuru smiled, seeming in a lighter mood. She chuckled, holding the younger's fingers loosely. "Though, having Miyu fix her trousers was a bit much… Though I doubt Natsuki would like to be seen downtown without them-"

"Don't." Natsuki remembered the photo of herself and Zhang, utterly embarrassed again. The elder had taken the lead; tugging a hapless Natsuki.

The key which Shizuru still had with her rattled, reminding Natsuki of them. Oh, so was the key for the limo? Excitement beginning to heighten, she questioned the Archmeister. "Shizuru? That key is for the limo, right?"

Amused, Shizuru replied softly. "Perhaps… What does she think we are retrieving?"

"My… My town car? My limo?"

"Town car?" Shizuru echoed. Wetting her lips, the Archmeister guided her free hand to Natsuki's. Tugging the Gakuenchou's index, and middle fingers gently, she led her into the garage. "I think Natsuki means her motorbike."

The chuckle was light upon Shizuru's lips. Inputting her fingerprint against the panel, the doors rolled upwards.

"No, I remember my… limo, then?" Natsuki asked, though had a feeling her motorbike was also within the garage. The bike was heavy, more like a courier one… She wanted something… sleeker.

"Maybe when this is over, I can get a motorcycle?" She asked Shizuru, awaiting the door's reveal.

"Natsuki, and her little contraptions."

Natsuki could've swore she heard the Archmeister teasingly sigh. If anything, it wouldn't surprise her, given Shizuru's nature. But either way, she eyed Shizuru suspiciously, floating after the elder woman.

The garage was surprisingly big, and off the top of her mind, she had a sudden memory. This was where Garderobe's sand cruiser was. It was used for long journeys across the Black Valley. However it had also been in service for a long while.

Since the… Shamrock generation?

She had to subtly keep reminding herself that Shamrock was Shizuru's aunt… She wondered where she was? Shaking that off, Natsuki took hold of the older woman's hand and ventured into the garage.

"I would like a motorcycle…" She murmured to herself, feeling Shizuru tug her when she veered the wrong way.

Although she remembered this garage, it still felt like a distant memory. It felt as if she hadn't been here for absolute years. Even though this wasn't the case, it still pulled at her. Only a year had past, not a decade, but even so…

"Not a little scooter, like Sara's?" Shizuru snickered.

"No. I do not want a scooter." Natsuki glanced over with a sneer but smiled, holding the elder's hand a little tighter. Deeper into the garage, and the Gakuenchou lit up. "My limo! Who is going to drive us…?"

Silver in colour, and with gold bordering, it was sleek in design. It was precisely how Natsuki had remembered it. The flags of Garderobe, although such a tiny design were just as memorable. Ev- Besides the limo, in the far corner, Natsuki's eyes jolted towards the detail.

She jumped; a gynoid was staring directly at her. A neutral expression rested against the female's features, eyes never blinking.

Which one was this? This one was short, and didn't seem expressive yet… "M14?" Natsuki called to her, confused. Why had she been… waiting here?

The gynoid jumped into action, joints snapping into motion. It almost appeared she hopped forward, striding towards the pair. "It has been issued you require a driver. My sisters are under repair, and maintenance; M1 is also busy caring for Saeko."

"M1…" A road? Oh, wait- "Miyu?" The other gynoid nodded in response, and Natsuki stared before replying. "We just saw them. Are your… sisters going to be repaired without incident, though? I am still rather… feeling bad after I froze all of you." The Gakuenchou toyed with the jingling keys that Shizuru passed over; Obviously meant for M14.

Who had sent them though? Had her mother sent M14 over the moment they had left? Probably.

Shizuru covered her mouth, amused. "Well, then... Shall we?"

Sinking into Shizuru's side, they watched the gynoid make sense of the vehicle.

"Can you drive it?" Natsuki tilted her head, wanting to go already. The gynoid seemed to be inspecting the limo, something she had seen Miyu do a few times as well.

"Positive." M14 reported, stiffly turning on her heel. Her back faced the vehicle, and she regarded the two meister silently. It was almost as if she was sizing the two up, expecting something.

"...What?" Natsuki shifted awkwardly, locking her gaze onto Shizuru instead.

"It is nothing." M14 unlocked the driver's door of the limo.

This vehicle wasn't complicated exactly. But it had a lot of unneeded gadgets added to it. Or at least this is what the gynoid believed. She could detect an odd auto-unlocking system from the limo. But she was unsure what it was used for, precisely.

Then again, she could easily ask Natsuki.

The Gakuenchou stepped towards the back for the door, opening it for Shizuru. If they were going out on a date, she may as well act like it. "M14, it looks like you have a question?"

The gynoid blinked, though seemed to determine whether it was a tease or not. "A few, none which take precedence over delivering you to the destination." She settled into the driver's seat, noting the plush fabric against her back.

Why was this vehicle so odd…?

Shrugging, Natsuki turned back to the elder and swept an arm to the door. "After you."

"Stop it, Natsuki." The Archmeister chuckled softly. Tapping the younger woman against the shoulder lightly, Shizuru slipped into the limo. She unconsciously made room for Natsuki to sit beside her, but was brought into puzzlement.

Shutting the door after herself, as Natsuki followed, she blinked at Shizuru. "What?" She tilted her head in question, sitting opposite the elder.

It took a moment, but the younger realized her mistake. "Oh, uh… Heh." Natsuki chuckled softly, resting back against the seat. "Well, since I won't be deploying you…" Smirking faintly, she rose and settled beside Shizuru, grasping her hand.

"I would hope not." Shizuru hid her mirth behind a hand, laughter in crimson eyes. As Natsuki sat down, the elder immediately wrapped an arm around her waist.

"Though I must admit, I always thought seeing the otome launched from the limo funny." Natsuki mused, sinking against Shizuru.

Every time she saw it happen, it always seemed so… cartoonish? Natsuki wasn't sure; but there was definitely a hint of slapstick humour. Though thinking on it, wouldn't a catapult be added…? Shaking the thought away, the Gakuenchou sighed.

"It is going to be weird seeing Windbloom again." She murmured, doing up her seat belt.

Shizuru watched her, grinning slyly as she lowered her hand. Her own seat belt lay limp until Natsuki noticed. "Oi, Shizuru… You need to buckle in."

The elder chuckled, leaning her head against coal hair. "Natsuki… The windows are bullet-proof, and the body is reinforced to even keep Haruka from denting it; Per your specific orders."

"T-that's… still! It has seat belts, we use them!" Natsuki scolded, flushing before she buckled the elder in.

"Everyone secured?" M14 droned from the front, the partition rolled down.

"Natsuki is so cute." Shizuru outright purred, forcing a blush from the Gakuenchou.

"Stop it, you."

Ever since last night, and earlier today, they had been so… ah. Before her coma, their relationship had been… calm? Of course there had been the teases from Shizuru. But during the past she had been so anxious?

To be honest, Natsuki wasn't even sure why she had been. Had it perhaps been because she had been so… uncertain about Shizuru? Had she feared something, perhaps?

"Is Natsuki alright?" Shizuru shook her from her thoughts, a hand caressing against the younger's jaw.

"Ah, yes… I was just- M14, can you roll up the partition?" Sheepishly, Natsuki rubbed the nape of her neck. The request was filled; Separating and giving the two otome privacy.

"Ara, is she having naughty thoughts?"

"N-no! ...W-well, perhaps." It wasn't exactly 'naughty', but it was serious. The limo was brought into motion, the engine being fired up by the gynoid. Looking out of the blackened windows, Natsuki cautiously eyed Shizuru. "We've been really… into it lately."

"Natsuki must elaborate. 'Into it', as meaning…?" A devious smile curled upon Shizuru's lips. Though an admiration held true within her eyes. Was Natsuki confused of the sudden burst in their relationship?

Playing with the Gakuenchou's fingers lazily, the Archmeister studied her closely.

"You told me that we had barely been… intimate even before my coma, so I'm wondering…"

"Natsuki is wondering just why she is being so frisky?" Shizuru finished, grinning softly still now. She rose the younger's hand, kissing along her knuckles gently.

"...Yes… Though, I suppose it might be because of the lack of paperwork- No, that can't be it, I've started to do that again…"

"Hm…" Shizuru watched her silently from above Natsuki's knuckles. "I wonder... " Wetting her lips, she mused, studying the Gakuenchou's eyes. Maybe Natsuki was discovering something which she wasn't aware of consciously? Perhaps something was adjusting inside of herself so subtly, neither noticed it?

But what could this possibly be?

Emerald seemed to lighten in color; As if a switch was pulled. "Perhaps it's just because I've come to near death way too many times to take you for granted." Natsuki spoke softly, taking Shizuru's hand to kiss in return.

"Though if I am found by the side of the road without trousers again, I'll kill Zhang."

"I am afraid I would have to arrest Natsuki, if she attempted." Shizuru laughed softly. Though this was of course rewarded with a pout. "Natsuki is too stubborn for her own good." She smiled.

"Maybe." Natsuki shrugged it off, taking a look outside of her window. "Oh." They had begun entering the city; Skyscrapers, and colorful buildings coming into sight. Being stuck at Garderobe had been… A different experience compared to now.

It hadn't exactly been miserable; The architecture of the academy was incredibly beautiful. But… the city was another story.

Not to mention Windbloom was an excessively populated city. They were just beside the border, but Garderobe had thousands of acres surrounding it. Obviously not many lived inside the Garderobe state, and they had more breathing room.

What with the nomad Black Valley being right next to them.

Wait. Wasn't Garderobe, and Windbloom split from the Black Valley? Hadn't they used the sand drifter to get into the city, originally? Watching the scenery flicker by, Natsuki frowned.

"Shizuru…?" She settled back into her seat, and the elder picked up on the change in attitude. "How did we get into the city ages ago?"

"Pardon?" They wouldn't have been alive ages ago…

"Didn't the Black Valley separate us from Windbloom?"

Oh.

Trading in the appearance of Natsuki, for the city skyline, Shizuru quieted. They had indeed been surrounded originally, but… "The Black Valley has been slowly moving. Does Natsuki remember this? But we've always been within Windbloom's territory."

Long ago during the Shinso's time, Garderobe had been an island. Perhaps this could happen once more? Although Shizuru was doubtful they would be alive to experience this.

"Shizuru?" Natsuki leaned against her, sitting forward and straining against the seat belt. Without a moment's thought, she unclasped it to better view Shizuru.

The elder found this odd as well, giving an almost comical look of confusion. After the fuss Natsuki had put up about them? Perhaps it was because they were slowing down?

But that still didn't make sense. Something was definitely up with Natsuki. Shizuru would need to make sense of this when they returned. "Natsuki?" She echoed in the same response, tilting her head.

"You didn't answer me- Oh wait… You did, didn't you?" The Gakuenchou chuckled lowly, taking her hand from Shizuru's to sweep back coal hair. She adjusted the silver clip, shrugging her shoulders.

"I guess fresh air has me a little… confused." Natsuki smiled, leaning back to buckle herself in again. Before she had the chance, the limo came to a halt.

Had they hit traffic? Then again… taking another eyeful of outside, the Gakuenchou groaned. Of course people were around. She had almost forgotten they were world famous.

What with the limo, they were a sitting duck to publicity.

Should they just get it over with and exit the limo now? Perhaps a nice walk, even? Natsuki hummed lowly to herself, glancing to the elder. "Would you like to walk the rest of the way?"

"In front of a whole street of people?" Shizuru's thin eyebrows arched. Her expression settled after a moment, features softening. "Surely she would be nervous around so many people she does not know?" There was a teasing within her tone, but also a concern aligned.

"Mm… It might feel good, you know? Be stopped, asked for autographs; Maybe it'll be fun?" Natsuki grinned, surprising Shizuru even more.

"My, the Gakuenchou seems to want her public to recognize her…"

"What can I say? I want to try something different." Natsuki huffed, and crossed her arms. After all, it was not as if she wanted a lingering image of herself being weak… Arms uncrossing, she grasped at the handle of the door.

"Natsuki." Shizuru settled a hand along her wrist, stopping her. "...Are you feeling alright?" Had she been witness to another personality swap?

"Of course I am… If I wasn't, M14 would say so." Natsuki murmured, thinking that was the end of it. However, Shizuru tightened her grip.

"Natsuki told them to stop scanning her."

Oh. Staring at Shizuru, Natsuki was unsure with what to say. What was she even supposed to say? That she was all good to go, and nothing could possibly go wrong? It wasn't like they were going to their deaths…

Exhaling a breath heavily, Natsuki sank back into the seat. Leaning her head against the comfy material, she propped her fingers to her forehead. "You win, Shizuru."

"Good." Shizuru gently grasped her hand, kissing the knuckles. Whatever Natsuki was feeling, she only hoped it would end. Holding Natsuki's hand, the elder gazed out of the window.

At least the weather seemed pleasant…

"I don't know why, but I really like this limo." Natsuki murmured after a while. Was it the sheer customization to it? The high scaled modification, even? She preferred bikes compared to cars, but this…?

She felt as if she should remember something in particular. But she just couldn't think of anything. Maybe it was because the Garderobe limo held such strong symbolism?

"Natsuki did ask for all the specifications…" Shizuru reminded, running her hand over the inside of the younger's wrist. She had to admit, she also adored this vehicle…

They began to move again; Traffic and the crowds must be letting up. Natsuki watched people begin to gawk at seeing the vehicle's flags, chuckling.

Even before her coma, it was rare the limo had an outing. Usually the vehicle was only used for important diplomatic meetings across the world, after all. But now that she thought on it… didn't her mother help build the original prototype?

Pressing her index, and middle fingers to her lips, Natsuki stared down at her feet. It had been called something-dal, right…?

She was sure the name would come to her later. Running her free hand into coal hair, emerald focused more on the window; Rather, her reflection in it. She had changed so much since that coma…

Shaking her head, Natsuki focused on Shizuru again. "Where are we eating?" Squeezing the elder's hand, she smiled.

"Natsuki is the one who suggested we would go to Windbloom. But…" There had been a bar they had always gone to in the past. It was one which the Archmeister knew was still active. Perhaps they should go there?

"Do you remember the bar we used to go to?" It was further into the city, and had its separate zones. It was a bar which both VIPs and commoners went to frequently. From what Shizuru had heard, even foreign nobles ventured over sometimes. "We have not been in a while. A good four years?"

A fond smile took over Natsuki's expression, the younger scooting closer to her. "I do… I would love to see it." She murmured, wrapping an arm around Shizuru's waist. "I wonder if it has changed much…"

"Four years is a long time, but I know it is still in operation."

"Didn't I get caught past curfew by you that one time? I was a pearl." It was an old, and vague memory. "I seem to remember you were smoking in one of the booths. We stared at each other so intensely, and for so long." The Gakuenchou quietly chuckled.

Shizuru flushed faintly, but nodded. "I did indeed catch her…" Natsuki had looked so cute; Frozen like a deer in headlights…

Natsuki smirked faintly, leaning into the elder. "Why were you even at a bar? I thought that was the last place I would find you…"

"So Natsuki was avoiding me?"

"Of course I was. It was curfew; who were you waiting for? Anh? Didn't you have to carry her back?"

Off the top of Natsuki's mind, she could remember something about Anh. But the princess, and bars never slot together too well. What with the elder otome adoring to get drunk.

"I did. My Onee-sama was never too good at making a good impression." Pressing her palm against Natsuki's thigh, she continued. "Though I must say, I wish Natsuki at least stayed to help me."

Was that a huff from Shizuru?

"Knowing my luck, I would have been left with the drunk princess." Natsuki scowled at the scenario, shaking her head. "With my background with getting into trouble, I wanted to desperately avoid that."

"Mhh… she did tend to get into rather a lot of trouble." Especially Miss Maria. Shizuru couldn't remember a time when Miss Maria wasn't tugging Natsuki's ear. In fact, it still happened, even if Natsuki tried her best.

It was rather amusing.

"I would not abandon Natsuki." There was a glint in the elder's eye, one Natsuki knew far too well.

"Still…" Natsuki leaned in to kiss her cheek, resting her chin atop Shizuru's shoulder. "We both know my luck as a student was non-existent."

"True… Miss Maria may have indeed caught Natsuki alone with Anh." The elder smirked, leaning against Natsuki's brow.

"Shizuru Viola, what are you implying?" Cocking a brow at the Archmeister, Natsuki shook her head. Caught alone with Anh? What was that supposed to mean? That she had supposedly slept with the princess of Annam? Snorting, the Gakuenchou's lip curled. "And not you, Shizuru? I'm pretty sure I remember hearing she once… what was the word…"

"...Proposed drunkenly to you?" She looked the brunette dead in the eye. Emerald never relented, challenging those crimson irises.

Shizuru saved face, however, keeping a smirk. "How else am I supposed to marry Natsuki, hm? A commoner marrying a noble? Her mother would faint…"

"O-oi, if I marry you, then you're a noble too… Besides, at this point, you're hardly common." Natsuki frowned, feeling the limo slow again.

"And I would mostly certainly not marry you if you married Anh first!"

"She was always monogamous, after all."

"O-of course I am!" Natsuki flushed. "You're difficult enough to contend with! I'd dread to think what it'd be like to have another person included!"

"Like who?"

"W-why are we even having this conversation?!" Baffled, the Gakuenchou could only gawk at Shizuru. Her ears reddened, followed by her cheeks, Shizuru's response doing nothing to aid her. She was laughing at her! "Shizuru!"

Natsuki sat up and leaned against the door, smirking softly. "We both know you are far too possessive to even think of having someone else… touch me?"

The laughter immediately died, and a flicker of anger appeared in crimson. Shizuru narrowed her eyes, obviously bristled by that.

"Seems I was right."

"Naughty Natsuki… No one will ever touch her as I have."

"Woah, definitely possessive." But really, Shizuru had nothing to fret. Surely she knew this? Natsuki studied her carefully, attempting to read her body language. Nothing seemed off, and the Archmeister settled. "But seriously Shizuru. You know you have nothing to fear, right?"

The limo came to a solid stop again, and she quickly glanced out the window. The area was familiar; was this central Windbloom? The train station was around here, if she remembered.

"Of course I know this, Natsuki… It still does not feel well to imagine such things." Shizuru sighed, taking the younger's hands. "My Natsuki is mine." She pouted, gaining a chuckle.

"And my Shizuru is mine." Natsuki smiled, kissing the elder gently. "Now… Are we close enough to walk?"

Leaning closer to her side of the window just slightly, Shizuru surveyed outside. People were drifting around, which was understandable, to say it was the central city. The buildings in this location were tall, and modern also. From here, it would only take a while to walk to the bar.

It wasn't like they were walking to Sand Port.

Natsuki tilted her head, waiting for an answer. "It's still far, isn't it?"

"Not too far." Shizuru smiled, taking her close for another kiss before she tapped the partition. M14 rolled it down, gazing back to them out of the corner of her eyes.

"Natsuki and I are going to walk the rest of the way, but please standby."

The gynoid nodded without issue, and pulled over. With a gradual ease, the limo came to a stop by the pavement. "Is there anywhere in particular I should park?" She asked the pair. People were beginning to stare at the vehicle again, and M14 wondered if that was good.

They couldn't have people swarming through their own curiosity.

"There is a private parking garage nearby…" Natsuki tried to think where it was, but M14 cut her off.

"I will find it. I assume you will call when needed?" The gynoid was given a nod, the Gakuenchou exiting the limo finally. Rounding towards the other side, she opened the door for Shizuru.

She heard a few people gasp, but ignored them; favoring offering her hand to help her lover.

"You will have to guide me there." She murmured down to Shizuru, the elder grasping her hand. "You know how lost I get in this city."

Which was strange, considering she knew Aries from the back of her hand. Natsuki supposed it was merely due to her growing up in the city of Aries. Surely? But hadn't her mother told Shizuru to gui-dammit. Shaking her head discreetly, Natsuki ignored the proven fact either way. Maybe she really was stubborn after all?

"Of course." Shizuru smiled, looping her arm into Natsuki's. "I will do my absolute best to guide Natsuki…"

"This sounds dirty." The younger mumbled under her breath, closing the door behind Shizuru.

"Perhaps it is. What does Natsuki think?"

Observing the area, Shizuru found herself instantly amused. The passersby were immediately halting to get an eyeful of them. But they never ventured closer, they merely kept their distance.

Fortunately they would have time to get away before anymore arrived. Shizuru preferred not to be in the eyes of the media tonight.

"I think it is dirty." Natsuki smirked softly, holding onto Shizuru's arm. It felt so good to be out from Garderobe… The fresh air helped clear her head. Windbloom was always so pretty…

It was an urban jungle, but it had plenty of places for wildlife. Even amongst the holographic technology birds managed to build their nests. The Gakuenchou felt that the only real downfall, was pollution, and the noise.

All cities came with this price however. Though Windbloom was much better than most international cities.

Altai was a nightmare, the roads were dangerous- hell, even the people. It seemed even looking at somebody wrong in that country got you the death sentence. But then again, Natsuki only had experience through diplomacy, and war. So who was she kidding?

"I am not about to lure her into an alleyway." The Archmeister bit softly.

"I might like it if you did." Natsuki shot back without thinking, relishing the stiffness at her side. Shizuru gazed to her, and the younger noticed something odd. "The wind is picking up, hm?"

Tawny hair was rustling; The Gakuenchou peering to the sky for weather changes.

It was remarkably cloudy today. There was quite the cool breeze also. It was a nice change from the humid heat they usually experienced in this region. Would it rain soon? From the look of the clouds, there were some grey ones in the distance.

"...Aren't clouds strange." She muttered, pulling Shizuru closer to her side.

"I'll be glad not to be in Garderobe when the rain hits." Natsuki snickered, averting her gaze from the sky. "Perhaps we can even stay in a hotel…?" Though would that be too much?

"I am sure if we alerted Miss Maria, we could." Shizuru leaned against her, uncaring of the public.

"Hey, Shizuru…" Natsuki notioned suddenly, grabbing her attention.

"What is it?"

"Wanna get away from these people?" Natsuki grinned.

Somehow, Shizuru knew precisely what the younger meister was suggesting. It surprised her, why was Natsuki suddenly wanting to…

"My, Natsuki. She is not a student anymore."

"I don't care!"

Shizuru grinned, toying with the underside of Natsuki's chin. "If she wants to, she knows I always do." Clipping the faint dimple of the younger's chin with her nail, she smirked.

"A-ah…-" Was Shizuru getting the wrong idea? This was a totally innocent idea! "I-I mean run! Not-"

"Not?"

"You're just doing it on purpose." Natsuki huffed, pulling away from the elder's hold. "Just… come on." She groaned, dragging Shizuru down the road. She knew this way led roughly to the bar.

She wasn't that hopeless.

"But I think Natsuki likes it." Slipping a hand under the younger's coat, Shizuru smirked. Her hand grazed over Natsuki's covered stomach before it was batted away.

"O-oi… You're even more insatiable in public…" Natsuki flushed, looking around. Had anyone seen? Who cared. It wouldn't change anything. "Look… we'll do something later, when we're home."

"If Natsuki insists."

"I'm not insisting anything!"

Shizuru chuckled, leaning in to kiss her cheek. "Of course, of course…" Perhaps she would stop teasing her… for now.

She was sure if she continued teasing the younger column, Natsuki would explode.

It was refreshing to be outside at least. Shizuru had to admit this, like Natsuki had. Having been cooped up in Garderobe, with the constant strain of working had been relentless. Even she had her limits.

She briefly remembered the image of Natsuki frozen before her. Harshly, she derailed her train of thought.

"It's close, isn't it?" Natsuki tugged gently at her arm, looking up towards the doorways. She read the signs, though none of them reminded her of the bar. "Hm…" Where was this place? Though, walking along the pavement with Shizuru was relaxing…

"Just down this road." Shizuru murmured, leading her to the far left. It appeared to be an older section of the city. No blaring lights, nor holograms were focused in this area. Instead, it was shorter, and smaller buildings- an old shopping district, from the looks of it.

"Oh… This looks better." Natsuki had somehow forgotten exactly how it looked. She felt a bit more excited; Perhaps she enjoyed the architecture just as well as Garderobe?

Now she had an idea what she wanted for her birthday…

"Natsuki?" Shizuru quirked a brow, snapping the younger out of it. "Just a bit longer, now."

"Oh, sorry." She sheepishly muttered, scratching her cheek. "I had a random thought, is all."

Exactly how had this reminded her of her birthday? Sure she liked architecture, but… was she really lame enough to want something relating to it? Suddenly, she felt way older than she was.

Perhaps she was having her midlife crisis already? Shaking her head, Natsuki rolled her eyes.

"Natsuki sure is having a conversation with herself…" Shizuru teased her, tugging at her again. The younger hummed aloud, nuzzling briefly into her side.

"I was thinking of my birthday… It is coming in a few months."

Currently it was June. So she had a two month wait yet- but still, it was getting close.

"It is, and no, I will not tell Natsuki what I am planning on getting her." Shizuru lifted a hand, covering her mouth when the younger balked.

"Well, why not?" Natsuki furrowed her brows, pulling away just so from the elder's side. "I would tell you."

"No she would not." Shizuru teased again, though tilted her head. Natsuki thought she may give in, until she noticed what the elder had; An odd noise, piercing through the chatter of the city.

It almost sounded alike to that of a crying seagull. But it was far too loud, and pierced the air with a high pitch. Whether the screech rumbling within her eardrums had sparked the reaction first, Natsuki was unsure. A crowd of people flocked together from around the corner, fleeing, making matters worse.

Something wa-

Blood spurted onto her cheek, causing her to reel back. Had she been hit? She didn't feel anything- "Shizuru!" The elder had crumpled against a stone wall, painting it crimson.

The blood on Natsuki's cheek… was Shizuru's? A fierce pain erupted in her head, though she had not yet been hit. "Shizuru!" Who was attacking, where-?

How she hadn't noticed it, enraged her further. The floor quaked beneath her feet, and a gigantic shadow loomed overhead. Before she was even given a chance, another pain sparked within her entire body.

The shadow- a most; a huge mechanically beast was towering over her. A SLAV- The thought crumbled, and she was sent flying into the opposite wall from Shizuru. Her sight blurred, transforming into tunnel vision harshly.

What was happening?! Shizuru wasn't dead, was she? But she wasn't mov-

"Gakuenchou, the Princess has awoke-"

Emerald opened almost instantly. However, this was not Natsuki. Something awoke inside of her at the exact moment Mai's consciousness returned; A frost seeping from between her lips. If she had an empathetic thought, it would have been relief that the passersby were gone.

The pain inside her head was nothing compared to the immense rage building. The SLAVE had returned to her, yet another strike was blocked by her open palm. Immediately, crystal began to seep up from her skin and onto mechanics. Irises were overblown; Pupils barely even able to be seen.

With an enraged scream, she broke off a piece of the SLAVE. Freezing the sharp shard completely, she shoved it right into the heart of the mechanical beast. In the back of her mind, she knew this would kill a master. In response, she twisted it deeper.

If not for her pure, mindless rage, she would've reacted to her element's materialisation. As the mech crumpled onto the floor loudly, she bolted. Hawking her gaze around her haphazardly she searched.

She knew it was a sniper! Where was it!

Within her hands, for what had materialised were dual elements. Alike to the cannon, yet so distinctly alien, they stood out. They were pistols, but more alike to hand-cannons.

But she couldn't comprehend what was happening before her eyes. Instead, this rage transformed into a thirst for revenge.

It seemed her body knew how to handle these weapons, so she would listen to it. Blown emerald located the sniper; The sun reflecting off of the scope. Had she missed it, the bullet that almost grazed her ear would have struck her brow instead.

The building across the street, rooftop… She wouldn't even have to leave the ground. Holding tight to the grip of dual long-barreled pistols, they were combined in a ground-shattering crack. The sniper was taking too long to reset his aim, and that would be his death.

Taking a knee, she hauled the newly formed cannon onto her shoulder. Who did this building belong to, who could possibly be inside? None of this mattered. Within moments, the top three floors have been blown right off.

The silence which followed was almost deafening once the building's debris landed. With the top three floors blasted apart, the building didn't fall. But the chaos around her, the body of the SLAVE, Shiz-

Shizuru.

Falling back into auto-drive, she immediately dismissed her combined element, and sprinted for the Archmeister.

Emerald raked over the crumpled elder, the only hesitance shown was a hand atop tawny locks. "Gakuenchou? Natsuki!" Whatever was screaming in her ear barely sounded like a whisper compared to trying to wake Shizuru up.

"The attack is over, all confirmed subjects are dead- Ah, no, you need to rest-!" A struggle?

"Natsuki! Calm down!" Mai…? "Do you hear me, Natsuki?! Ca- ugh."

"Gallagher, can you please re-"

The voices were zoned out by the Oto-HiME. She couldn't bear it, especially not as her gaze lay bolted to Shizuru. Her hands quivered as she knelt before the elder's prone form. Skimming her still frosted palms to Shizuru's form, she paused.

She felt so… broken… so…

「いいえ！

ナ、ナイ河野。お願-

... ...静留？」

"No!

N-not this. Ple-

...Shizuru?"

ARC II: Inaugurate

COLLAB NOTES

Batsuki Mode Activated!

This chapter was such a pain in the backside to write- or type, in our case. It doesn't help that we've been getting distracted with other stories, and games. On another note, our draft is completely different to the version you see here. Somehow those eight scenes mashed into four, and many ideas disappeared.

Perhaps it was a good thing though, seeing with the complications this chapter has. Many of the details have been long coming, in fact.

Now, let us find cover before you start shooting at least.

POLL

There's a poll I recently created which you'll obviously find on my profile. It's something Harmonium, and I have been pondering for a long while. So seeing your thoughts would be great!

UPCOMING UPLOADS/DATES

[Twisted Eternal Wolvetta's side] [Harmonium-Kruger's side]

Crystal Fall (ShizNat) ONESHOT

Kindred Genesis (ShizTom/NatNao) STORY

Gendarmerie (ShizTom/MaiNat) STORY

Resonance Cascade (NatSara) ONESHOT

Vehemencia (ShizNat) STORY

We have far too many stories, and we regret nothing.

REVIEWS

L.A: Sunrise; you either hate them, or love them. Or in my case, both with a passion. I would so watch the HiME Movie if it had been a thing. Or perhaps it is? Next year is Otome's 10th anniversary, so you never know.

Also, get watching Sifr already! It's short, that's true, but it's great. But I'm sort of biased since I adore Otome way more than HiME. So don't take my word for it, lol.

The Suzushiro was Saeko, Miyu, and the gynoid army's mode of transport, yes. Crossing the desert from Aries to Windbloom would've been impossible otherwise.

Here's a hint for Shizuru's nanny: Many details have been taken from the manga for Renascence. In the manga, Takumi is the emperor of Chaldea, not Zipang. This can relate to surnames also. For instance, Sergei Wang in the manga is called Sergei August Taiki.

Boredandidle: Somehow yuri being a contender to global warming seems to fit so well for me. Now I'm getting weird story ideas, damn you. I'm unsure if we carry such a torch for this fandom though? I'm pretty sure the Mai-Series fandom is getting bigger by the day. But for a long while I've been avoiding it a lot. I guess I saw the height of its popularity come, and go without realising.

Kutt: Our speciality in sex scenes is to make them with feeling, and energy. Not two/or more robots humping in a corner mechanically. That's something we... highly dislike. 'Actiony' porn is the worst. People actually complain to us about us not making them actiony too, it's hilarious.

For the editing we're slowly working on it. The most we're doing is making sure it doesn't sound 'listy', whilst making a timeline. Amazingly we've memorized everything we've placed down so far, and naturally forgotten a few details. With Natsuki's state it worked perfectly though, since she is highly forgetful in this universe.

Equastar: For some reason Natsuki gets mischaractered a lot for this. In reality, she's a huge softy when it comes to people. Look at HiME-Natsuki. Although she dislikes Nao, she understands her, and relates to her. For Mai, she also has an understanding, since they both lost their parents in some way. Yet people are obsessed with making her a cold, lone wolf.

Natsuki is a person who is highly emotional, and doesn't want friends to feel pain. Even a few enemies.

Except ferries, and unnamed characters though, I guess.

Shizsuki Kuga Fujino: Hola! Mi Español no es la mejor, pero aquí vamos! Gracias por los comentarios. No estábamos seguros de qué decir antes. Espero que disfruten el resto del Renascence.

Asena Ray 7: You make our story sound like the anime, Aria! I know that problem when you read a story all the way through so quickly. You finish it, pray is gets completed, then end up waiting an age for an update. I'm having a feeling Harmonium, and I will finish Renascence though. The only issue is, is the series is going to be gigantic. Not like you readers are going to be complaining about that little detail though, hahaha.

KamisaMF: It's great to have you aboard!