[ How did they win the favor of this random ass family that has taken them in? Well, Emiri is cute and charming, and Crona looks like a sad wet cat most of the time, so perhaps it's some combination of pity and good will. Either way, for the time being, it's seems they're safe under their ruse as students who are abroad and who's accommodations have fallen through, and have secured room and board.
They're afforded a spacious guest room to share, which even has its own little coffee table and couch. At present, Crona is knelt at the table, keeping their hands around a steaming mug of tea — and yes it's the matching IKEA mugs. They're pink and they have hearts engraved around the bottom?? they tried to buy something she would like?? ]
Emiri....
[ They pipe up, mustering up the courage to look up at her. They look troubled, as they always do, but their voice is gentle. ]
S... Shouldn't we talk about... what to do...
[ surely she will know to what they are referring, right
Their brows knit more, and they bite they inside of their lip, already feeling a bit insubordinate by trying to lead the conversation. And by trying to be proactive? And here they thought being a Servant would be all about just following the Master's will and orders... ]
....No. I meant... about the other pairs. In the War.
[ They try to say that as gently and non-confrontationally as they can, dragging their thumb nail against their other hand over and over in an absentminded, nervous way. ]
[She nods eagerly, tilting her head thoughtfully.]
I met lotsa people! ... Now that you mention it, I wonder if they were all a part of this whole thing...?
[emiri PLEASE.]
... But! Right! Strat-e-gy!
[.....so it pains me to admit this but despite her everything, she is not actually bad at the whole strategy thing. A whole war is a bit above her paygrade, but:]
I don't wanna have to attack anyone, but if we're gonna win and grant your wish, we gotat fight, right? Beside which, people might think we're a good target because we're, like, so young and not at all mature.
[ Visible relief.... for a second there, they were worried about what her ideas towards strategizing might be, if any — but her response is pretty measured, and also very correct. They hum in agreement. ]
People might also... take mercy on us. For a little while.
[ They're young, and Crona can imagine there being people in the War who might not want to kill the two of them until they absolutely have to. And, if they come off as weak... it would be advantageous to leave them for last. Their gaze drops to their mug. ]
Or try to find the Servants they have an advantage against first... though, I don't know...
[ contrary to Emiri, they're actually kinda bad at this strategy thing?? They don't know, they've always just lowkey brute forced their way through all their combat problems. They start feeling like it might come off like they're trying to disprove her point by saying all that, so they quickly backpedal. ]
N-Not that I mind staying on guard. If you think it's best.
[ They are never getting used to her talking at them like that... their chin tucks in a bit, obviously affected by her words. ]
Um... well... I don't think... we should attack. Right now...
[ Despite how scared they seem to act most of the time, one gets the sense the reason they say this is not out of fear - as the stress is on the 'right now.' ]
If someone challenged us thinking it would be easy, they might underestimate us...
[ Which might make it an easier win? They think...? Not revealing their own strength, or even that they're Team Berserker™ is an advantage, at least in their own mind, because they think that others won't expect either from them. As for alliances... pessimistically, they think there's probably no one that would see an advantage to being allies with the two of them at present. they are babys ]
So, trying to learn more about another pair, or defending... t-that's probably what I think is best.
[She claps her hands together, clearly thrilled to have heard their opinion. Sometimes, it's just that simple... Berserker has an opinion, and they shared it when she asked! That's so wonderful!]
Kay kayyy then, we'll do that!
D'you wanna see if anyone wants to be friends with us? That'd, like, help too, right?
[ oh, lucky! He did in fact look Edgy. Crona nods in acknowledgement. ]
Mm... I don't know who his Servant is, though.
[ Vergipi... they wonder what this guy's real name is. ]
The Servants... one was a man with dark hair, [ The put their hands at their chin to signify Bruno's BOB!! ] then another man with dark hair with purple streaks, and the last was a girl with white hair and pink eyes...
[ do they get along with anybody... maybe with Emiri. Because she's so nice. ]
But the girl with the white hair... she seemed.... noble? She said if we faced each other, it would be a fair fight. And that the thing she was most afraid of was not getting very far...
[ ... maybe that fear would make her more open to allying with them. Of the three, the warning signs went off the least with her. Not because she seemed weak... but because she seemed the least likely to go on the offensive so soon. ]
[ Thanks to a helpful carpet ride home from Team Rider, the two of them are now back safe and sound in their shared dorm room, having likely clambered in from the window for stealth purposes. It turns out cutting someone in half kind of turns into a bloodbath... even their face and hair is spattered with (now dried) blood, despite their dark clothes hiding the worst of it all.
As the two of them settle back in to their makeshift headquarters, they keep their left hand steadily pressed against the hole in their right arm from one of Yuki's marbles, their lack in mana contributing to their lessened ability to stop the bleeding on their own. Upon closer inspection, the blood that seeps through their fingers looks closer to ink than anything else, staining their hand with pitch. ]
We should stay quiet. Someone could have followed us...
[ they're still feeling frazzled from everything - not to mention from leaving Yuki alive. And Team Lancer's allies... but what's done is done. They communicate telepathically to Emiri, still looking warily at the window, as though an attack could come through it at any time. ]
[Emiri is, of course, pretty much completely unharmed. Crona kept their promise and their determination to protect her, and here she is, only minorly scuffed up.
But her expression is pinched, her pigtails askew as she stares at Crona with wide eyes, and then carefully comes closer--not because she's afraid of them, but in deference of the whole "trying to be quiet" thing.]
Kay, kay, but even more importantly... you're still bleeding! You're totes still hurt... Does it hurt?
[Her dismay is as earnest and honest as the rest of her, probably unsurprisingly.]
[ And the fact that Emiri is only minorly hurt — at least they can be grateful for that. Though they suppose they were fortunate to be targeted by a pair that weren't exactly gunning to harm her... next time, they might not be so lucky. ]
I'll be fine.
[ Which isn't a no, because they don't want to lie to her - it does hurt. But, they don't want to worry her, either. As she comes closer, the grip on their arm tightens, as though trying to cork the bloodflow more in her presence. Her concern for them is, as always, foreignly warm, but rising to meet it is their caution with letting her near their infectious wound. ]
My blood will close it... eventually.
[ Though, despite their intention to reassure her, they don't sound all that certain, even mentally. ]
[They don't sound sure at all, which is... of course, not particularly reassuring?? Emiri frowns at them in response, settling herself on the ground in front of them, her legs folded beneath her neatly.]
I'm sure! I'm fine, totes fine.
[... ... ... She's very head empty most of the time, but she did at least process her obligations as a Master. It's her mana that's keeping Berserker whole and well and alive, and she's clearly not doing a very good job of it right now.
I am making the decision that she has not learned about the most spicy sorts of mana transfers because this is baby squad, but what she was told is--]
Ohmigosh! I've like, totally got it! If I give you some of my blood, you'll have more mana to heal up with!
[I have to emphasize that she is outrageously okay with this idea--determined, even. Because, well... what's a little blood loss between friends? But even more importantly, if she can help Berserker hurt less, then... she'll do whatever it takes. Because they're partners!]
[ Which they accidentally say aloud, albeit hushed. I'm declaring that this is also the only form of mana transfer they're aware of, which is all the more reason that they're against it. They kneel down with her, out of the window's frame, eyes going slightly wide with panic at the mere suggestion. Hurriedly: ]
I mean — this is nothing, for me.
[ It's fine? What's a little flesh wound here and there sometimes? They've suffered far more than this?? Even then, their greater concern is letting her have an open wound near them, where if they're not careful, she could get infected with madness. Like Soul did, like Maka did. Which would of course be their fault. They know it's the only way... and yet, that doesn't stop them from objecting to it, especially when she SEEMS SO EAGER TO DO IT?? And because she's their partner! Their... friend. And what kind of friend would sign on to this? At the very least, their response sounds more like a stressed out, disbelieving complaint than anything else, dismay evident in every inch of their body language. ]
Do you even know how you'd do it? You're suggesting it so suddenly...
[Listen, sometimes you're a magical girl from Madoka in particular and blood and stab wounds just happen. Sometimes it's like that!
Their dismay and immediate disagreement does sway her; she cocks her head to one side, but she's not the sort to force anyone to do anything, as much as she wants to help.
But... well, she can at least answer that, even if she's simmered down a bit from her eagerness.]
Well... I dunno. I could cut my hand... that'd be, like, pretty easy.
It would heal fast, too, because I'm an M-Girl! Do ya think that'd work?
[ Magical girls can regenerate... huh. They learn something new everyday. But funnily enough, the knowledge that she wouldn't be hurt much by it (at least not for long) does reassure them more. ]
It might work. It's just... my blood, you can't let it touch your wound.
[ Their shoulders knit in, and their expression reads something close to shame. The black blood in their veins is a versatile and formidable weapon — but it makes it too easy to hurt others, even unintentionally. The more the wound spills, the more it feels that they will only stain her, inside and out, if she comes too near. ]
It... makes people sick. And I don't want you to get hurt...
[Oh, that does add an extra layer of complication to her plan. She can't touch Berserker's blood, huh...? It's not like that's a problem or even something that she finds particularly weird--so long as it doesn't bother Crona, she figures it's okay.
But...
Her plan had been something along the lines of a blood oath where she'd cut her hand and stick it onto Berserker wherever there was an open cut of their own. If that's no longer an option...
She thinks it over with her arms crossed, thoughtful.]
Hm, hmm, hmmm... got it. So that means that's, like, totes out. So... I think our only option is to, like, vampire it up.
[ Listen, they've eaten (way more than) their fair share of souls. But at the very least, they can't remember drinking the blood of anyone before. It'd be far from the worst thing they'd ever done, but still... they can't help but be tentative. ]
Are you sure?
[ It's her that would be in the position of weirdness and discomfort, so they'll let her have the freedom to dictate how it should be done, if she really is okay with it. Now that the adrenaline from the battle is starting to wear off — it's not as easy to completely deny the need for her help. ]
[This is... just what's happening here, I guess. Berserker was injured in that fight, and Emiri can fix it--so of course she's going to fix it, no matter what!
So!
She just adds, chipper in their mindlink:]
Anyway, vampires are supposed to be, like, really romantic. For some reason...? I don't really get it, but it means it's probs fine to give it a shot.
[Isn't that convincing?]
How do you wanna do it? [Drink her blood, she means.]
[They're given a lot to chew on after that dinner. It was only natural that they'd have to face the fact that they would have to fight their own allies eventually, but... it's still a tough pill to swallow. That, combined with Team Archer's earnest pleas for them to consider trying to destroy the Holy Grail...
It all means Emiri's head is spinning.
She sighs a bit, shaking her head as they both settle back into their current living space (this time, a house they were taken into as transfer students).]
Everything's, like, super complicated now... and I guess we're gonna have to do a bit more fighting after all.
[Not that that's a surprise, since they're both very committed to seeing this through. But still! Totally not rad at all!]
[ It certainly is a lot... they thought they'd be more prepared for this stage of the competition. Maybe if the last remaining pairs weren't Archer and Rider, it might be less painful. Ryuji and Archer are both kind, straightforward, fair. But Vergil and Rider have helped them survive so many times... they've really looked out for them. There's trust there. A fondness. ]
It's going to be... difficult...
[ They settle in nearby her, seeming to have calmed down a bit for the time being. When it's just the two of them, it's easier for them to keep a clear focus of everything they're fighting for. She matters most of any contestant... that won't ever change, no matter who they have to draw their blade against. ]
Are you afraid....?
[ Over time, they've grown a little more confident in talking with her - not always feeling like they need to ask permission, at least - so while the question comes out meekly, quietly, they ask it without hesitation. ]
[She just hangs her head at that, and nods. There's no reason for her to hide anything from them, after all. They're her precious partner.]
Mmhm... I'm super afraid.
[She fiddles with the end of one of her ponytails, frowning a little at her lap.]
I'm afraid that something's gonna happen to Vergipi and Donutan... I'm afraid that Ryuchu and Archan will suffer... and most of all, I'm afraid of something happening to you...!
[They've made it through so much together, and she has total faith, but...! There are still so many challenges to overcome.]
[ Their expression softens as she says that, feeling a weight lifted off them. As ever... her concern provokes a warm glow out of them. They shake their head once, closing one of their hands into a fist in their lap. ]
Even if I can't win here... the thing I've been most scared of during this war is you getting hurt because of me.
You've been fighting for my wish all this time... and helping me... without a clear wish of your own. You never had to, but you did...
[ It's a selfless kindness that she's shown them. And they won't ever forget that. In a way, they feel a vast debt to her, for the countless times she's gracefully and effortlessly showed them compassion. She's never faltered once, in staying by their side - never doubted them. They've turned almost everyone they know against them somehow — so Emiri's unwavering friendship, all this time, feels all the more monumental. ]
So as long as I can protect you... that's enough. To me. I'll be fine...
[ In other words, if something does happen to them... they won't mind, so long as they're able to keep her from much harm. They have more to say about her fears regarding the other Servants and Masters, but they feel their opinion on this matter is more pressing - deserves more care in its delivery. ]
[Emiri's eyes brim with tears as they speak--not unhappy tears, but perhaps overwhelmed tears. Over and over and over again, Berserker has said that they just want to protect Emiri. That it's their job to protect her. That they're going to look after her.
But this is different. This time... they want to protect her because that's explicitly what they want to do, isn't it?
It's as nice to hear their hopes and dreams as it is overwhelming to know that she's a part of it, just like this.
A tiny sniffle, and she reaches out to rest a hand on their clenched fist.]
I'll be okay! I'm sure of it. I've got you, and I don't think everyone else is really coming after me [two ambushes later this feels untrue], and like... I'm p tough too, ya know?
So I guess if you're gonna worry about me... lemme keep worrying aboutcha until the end. Okay?
[That will make her feel better, just as being protected by Berserker makes her heart feel warm in her chest.]
[ Her hand is always so warm — or maybe it's their hands that are always cold, on account of the strange substance running through their veins. Either way, her touch is always a comfort, and one they're able to respond to more readily, nowadays. Slowly, they open up their palm so that they can clutch at her hand gently, their grip light and tentative. There's a nod, to all she's said - agreeing to letting her worry about them - before they muster up the courage to speak again. ]
It's not because I think you're weak...
[ They'd known from the beginning that Emiri had magical talent — they don't doubt at all that she is, ahem, "p tough." But, this is what they're good at, right? It's what they were made for. Being strong and able to withstand the force of any opponent. At least with her, they can use their power for something good, something they believe in. ]
[... Oh nooooo. Oh no!! That's so sweet! She beams, and as they open their palm for her, she just threads her fingers through theirs to hold their hand all the more warmly.]
That's how I feel too. We're friends! Besties, even!
[She has Decided This.]
You've done so much for me even in such a short time, and like... I'm so, so glad all of this time has been spent with you!
[She wouldn't want to be partners with any of the other Servants--this is what feels right, and this is what's made her so happy, despite everything that's happened in this war.]
[ It's strange — for the first time in a long while, they don't feel so afraid. Right now, the only thing that even remotely matters is the girl in front of them. Their friend. Someone who's happy to be around them, someone who's thought of them and considered them and worried for them. They're happy — more than they'd really be able to explain, after everything. But nonetheless, they smile, less shy and clumsy than before, humming their agreement and nodding along with her words.
They wouldn't want anyone else as their partner, either. ]
Um, earlier, when we were with Rider... it made me think of something. About the time we have left.
[ It's only a matter of time before the war ends, regardless of who the victor is, given their collusion with their allies. And though the words themselves may be ominous, their expression remains uncharacteristically lighter, managing to make eye contact for just a bit longer than normal. ]
[She blinks a little at that, tilting her head to one side. That's... a topic she doesn't like thinking about, even though she knows they're right. Their time together is fleeting. Even if they win every battle they still have to face...
In the end, they can't stay together.
And that's just the way it is.
Emiri isn't a stranger to the fact that sometimes that's how life pans out despite her young age; it isn't anything she's going to fight or rail against. But it does mean her lips pull down into a frown, her shoulders slumping a bit. Still... Berserker must be thinking about something important to bring it up. For once, their expressions are reversed--Berserker's is lighter than normal, even as Emiri can't help but frown.]
[ It's difficult for them, too — the prospect that they'll never see her again. Though, that had been a guarantee in 99% of the outcomes here. Only the survivor would have even a chance at staying on contact... so they tried to not let themself get too attached to the idea. How would they even be able to see each other or talk to each other again? It's probably something only a wish could grant.
But they're not a stranger to not getting their way. Actually, that's pretty much the natural order of things, to them. It's sad, of course, seeing how she wilts, and they wilt a little too, biting the inside of their lip. It takes a second, and they look... well, slightly embarrassed, once they're able to utter the words. ]
...It's Crona. My name...
[ Why tell her now? Before, they'd thought telling her would probably only make her sad, were they to lose in the early stages of the competition. But, now... selfishly, they want to be remembered by her than something other than Berserker, or even the beloved nickname she'd bestowed upon them on the first day. If their days are numbered together no matter what, at least they can feel comforted that she'll live on, knowing who they were. ]
I wanted you to know it. Before, um... the war ends.
She wasn't expecting that at all, and it's clear from the look on her face. She's been curious a few times, of course, but telling people their name was something a Servant might never do, and she could at least understand why.
But this... this is a form of Crona's trust, isn't it?
This is their affection and belief in her in one simple but ever-so-meaningful gesture, and Emiri lights back up like the sun as it sinks in.]
Crona... that's such a nice name!
[And honestly, Emiri nicknames every single person she meets, and it slips out immediately:]
Crororin--
[... But then she shakes her head, expression soft.]
Mm, nah. Crona is perfect. Thank you for telling me... I'm super duper happy right now.
And... I really like your name!
[And she really likes being able to finally use it with them.]
by god i'm going to use this icon once in this game
[ Oh. They didn't think it would be such a change, being called by their real name. But, it almost feels like talking with her for the first time. During this entire war, keeping the title Berserker, or even Beroppi, allowed them to keep a bit of distance between the person they were at home and the person they are here. In a way, it was like putting on a mask. It feels... really nice, to be their true self with her.
The smile that breaks out on their face is warmer and brighter for it — unbidden by the tension that their features are typically wrought by. That they trust her completely is clear — they'd never relax this way around anyone else. ]
Um, I'm... happy, too.
[ And they mean that! Even if the delivery is a little shaky. They're still not very accustomed to talking about their own feelings, awkward as a newborn foal at it. But in this moment, they want to convey their heart to her. ]
[Wishes aside, war aside... it was worth it to come here just for this. Just to meet Crona, just to know they can relax like this around her, just to know that they can smile like this.
She beams at them in response, and they can be certain that their feelings, their heart--it came across to her loud and clear.
She reaches to squeeze their hands again, grinning.]
Aw, look! You've got such a nice smile, Crona! It's, like, lighting up this whole room to the max!
![[personal profile]](https://www.dreamwidth.org/img/silk/identity/user.png){kind=small}
w1 strategizing.... 🤡
They're afforded a spacious guest room to share, which even has its own little coffee table and couch. At present, Crona is knelt at the table, keeping their hands around a steaming mug of tea — and yes it's the matching IKEA mugs. They're pink and they have hearts engraved around the bottom?? they tried to buy something she would like?? ]
Emiri....
[ They pipe up, mustering up the courage to look up at her. They look troubled, as they always do, but their voice is gentle. ]
S... Shouldn't we talk about... what to do...
[ surely she will know to what they are referring, right
right ]
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Far more important than strategizing for the war they're in--wait no, that's not right.
Anyway, Emiri is seated on the bed, swinging her legs a little as she peers around the room. It's cute... she likes it here.]
What to do...? Ya mean like, tomorrow, for funsies?
[I'm
so sorry Crona
Please help us get on track.]
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Their brows knit more, and they bite they inside of their lip, already feeling a bit insubordinate by trying to lead the conversation. And by trying to be proactive? And here they thought being a Servant would be all about just following the Master's will and orders... ]
....No. I meant... about the other pairs. In the War.
[ They try to say that as gently and non-confrontationally as they can, dragging their thumb nail against their other hand over and over in an absentminded, nervous way. ]
You met some of them, didn't you...?
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[She nods eagerly, tilting her head thoughtfully.]
I met lotsa people! ... Now that you mention it, I wonder if they were all a part of this whole thing...?
[emiri PLEASE.]
... But! Right! Strat-e-gy!
[.....so it pains me to admit this but despite her everything, she is not actually bad at the whole strategy thing. A whole war is a bit above her paygrade, but:]
I don't wanna have to attack anyone, but if we're gonna win and grant your wish, we gotat fight, right? Beside which, people might think we're a good target because we're, like, so young and not at all mature.
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People might also... take mercy on us. For a little while.
[ They're young, and Crona can imagine there being people in the War who might not want to kill the two of them until they absolutely have to. And, if they come off as weak... it would be advantageous to leave them for last. Their gaze drops to their mug. ]
Or try to find the Servants they have an advantage against first... though, I don't know...
[ contrary to Emiri, they're actually kinda bad at this strategy thing?? They don't know, they've always just lowkey brute forced their way through all their combat problems. They start feeling like it might come off like they're trying to disprove her point by saying all that, so they quickly backpedal. ]
N-Not that I mind staying on guard. If you think it's best.
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[She kicks her legs some more, one by one, as she thinks. Hmm, hmm, hmmm!!]
I don't think we gotta go super aggressive or anything, but I don't wanna wait around too much either. 'Cause... we should be fighting for our wishes.
[And not just letting them happen.]
What d'you wanna do, Beroppi? That's super important too!
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Um... well... I don't think... we should attack. Right now...
[ Despite how scared they seem to act most of the time, one gets the sense the reason they say this is not out of fear - as the stress is on the 'right now.' ]
If someone challenged us thinking it would be easy, they might underestimate us...
[ Which might make it an easier win? They think...? Not revealing their own strength, or even that they're Team Berserker™ is an advantage, at least in their own mind, because they think that others won't expect either from them. As for alliances... pessimistically, they think there's probably no one that would see an advantage to being allies with the two of them at present. they are babys ]
So, trying to learn more about another pair, or defending... t-that's probably what I think is best.
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Kay kayyy then, we'll do that!
D'you wanna see if anyone wants to be friends with us? That'd, like, help too, right?
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We could... try...
[ THEY DON'T SOUND VERY CONFIDENT... but also, they're inclined to trust Emiri's instinct on this, since she's the friendly one here. ]
Is there someone you think would want to...?
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... Soooooo tbh... I don't actually know for suresies who I met is a Servant or Master or whatevs.
[help]
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Well... Servants can tell who else is a Servant. I met three others. And one Master, at the Church... maybe you met some of the same ones.
[ And then it'd be easier to ask them to team up??? ]
The Master, he had white hair and carried a sword... does that sound familiar?
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Did he have super duper edgy vibes? That's Vergipi! Wowwww, so he's one too...
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Mm... I don't know who his Servant is, though.
[ Vergipi... they wonder what this guy's real name is. ]
The Servants... one was a man with dark hair, [ The put their hands at their chin to signify Bruno's BOB!! ] then another man with dark hair with purple streaks, and the last was a girl with white hair and pink eyes...
What about those...?
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I don't think I've met the other two though...
[HMM HMM HMMMM.]
Didja get along with any of 'em?
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[ do they get along with anybody... maybe with Emiri. Because she's so nice. ]
But the girl with the white hair... she seemed.... noble? She said if we faced each other, it would be a fair fight. And that the thing she was most afraid of was not getting very far...
[ ... maybe that fear would make her more open to allying with them. Of the three, the warning signs went off the least with her. Not because she seemed weak... but because she seemed the least likely to go on the offensive so soon. ]
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Okaaay, then let's talk to her! I trust your intuition, Beroppi!
Besides which, she sounds super duper cool and noble and stuff. And otherwise, we can layyyy real low.
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[ PLEASE... THEY'RE SCARED IT WILL BE THEIR FAULT IF THIS GOES POORLY!!! ]
I'm not — I don't know about these things, you know... we don't even know what her Master is like...
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I'm supes sure! We don't know what her Master's like, but we'll get to know 'em! It'll be fun.
I'm behind you one hundred percento!
[they will take the consequences together!!]
vs lancer aftermath, sometime in w2
As the two of them settle back in to their makeshift headquarters, they keep their left hand steadily pressed against the hole in their right arm from one of Yuki's marbles, their lack in mana contributing to their lessened ability to stop the bleeding on their own. Upon closer inspection, the blood that seeps through their fingers looks closer to ink than anything else, staining their hand with pitch. ]
We should stay quiet. Someone could have followed us...
[ they're still feeling frazzled from everything - not to mention from leaving Yuki alive. And Team Lancer's allies... but what's done is done. They communicate telepathically to Emiri, still looking warily at the window, as though an attack could come through it at any time. ]
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But her expression is pinched, her pigtails askew as she stares at Crona with wide eyes, and then carefully comes closer--not because she's afraid of them, but in deference of the whole "trying to be quiet" thing.]
Kay, kay, but even more importantly... you're still bleeding! You're totes still hurt... Does it hurt?
[Her dismay is as earnest and honest as the rest of her, probably unsurprisingly.]
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I'll be fine.
[ Which isn't a no, because they don't want to lie to her - it does hurt. But, they don't want to worry her, either. As she comes closer, the grip on their arm tightens, as though trying to cork the bloodflow more in her presence. Her concern for them is, as always, foreignly warm, but rising to meet it is their caution with letting her near their infectious wound. ]
My blood will close it... eventually.
[ Though, despite their intention to reassure her, they don't sound all that certain, even mentally. ]
You're sure you weren't hurt...?
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I'm sure! I'm fine, totes fine.
[... ... ... She's very head empty most of the time, but she did at least process her obligations as a Master. It's her mana that's keeping Berserker whole and well and alive, and she's clearly not doing a very good job of it right now.
I am making the decision that she has not learned about the most spicy sorts of mana transfers because this is baby squad, but what she was told is--]
Ohmigosh! I've like, totally got it! If I give you some of my blood, you'll have more mana to heal up with!
[I have to emphasize that she is outrageously okay with this idea--determined, even. Because, well... what's a little blood loss between friends? But even more importantly, if she can help Berserker hurt less, then... she'll do whatever it takes. Because they're partners!]
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[ Which they accidentally say aloud, albeit hushed. I'm declaring that this is also the only form of mana transfer they're aware of, which is all the more reason that they're against it. They kneel down with her, out of the window's frame, eyes going slightly wide with panic at the mere suggestion. Hurriedly: ]
I mean — this is nothing, for me.
[ It's fine? What's a little flesh wound here and there sometimes? They've suffered far more than this?? Even then, their greater concern is letting her have an open wound near them, where if they're not careful, she could get infected with madness. Like Soul did, like Maka did. Which would of course be their fault. They know it's the only way... and yet, that doesn't stop them from objecting to it, especially when she SEEMS SO EAGER TO DO IT?? And because she's their partner! Their... friend. And what kind of friend would sign on to this? At the very least, their response sounds more like a stressed out, disbelieving complaint than anything else, dismay evident in every inch of their body language. ]
Do you even know how you'd do it? You're suggesting it so suddenly...
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Their dismay and immediate disagreement does sway her; she cocks her head to one side, but she's not the sort to force anyone to do anything, as much as she wants to help.
But... well, she can at least answer that, even if she's simmered down a bit from her eagerness.]
Well... I dunno. I could cut my hand... that'd be, like, pretty easy.
It would heal fast, too, because I'm an M-Girl! Do ya think that'd work?
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[ Magical girls can regenerate... huh. They learn something new everyday. But funnily enough, the knowledge that she wouldn't be hurt much by it (at least not for long) does reassure them more. ]
It might work. It's just... my blood, you can't let it touch your wound.
[ Their shoulders knit in, and their expression reads something close to shame. The black blood in their veins is a versatile and formidable weapon — but it makes it too easy to hurt others, even unintentionally. The more the wound spills, the more it feels that they will only stain her, inside and out, if she comes too near. ]
It... makes people sick. And I don't want you to get hurt...
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But...
Her plan had been something along the lines of a blood oath where she'd cut her hand and stick it onto Berserker wherever there was an open cut of their own. If that's no longer an option...
She thinks it over with her arms crossed, thoughtful.]
Hm, hmm, hmmm... got it. So that means that's, like, totes out. So... I think our only option is to, like, vampire it up.
[I am so sorry.
But, well, here we are.]
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Like... drinking it...?
[ Listen, they've eaten (way more than) their fair share of souls. But at the very least, they can't remember drinking the blood of anyone before. It'd be far from the worst thing they'd ever done, but still... they can't help but be tentative. ]
Are you sure?
[ It's her that would be in the position of weirdness and discomfort, so they'll let her have the freedom to dictate how it should be done, if she really is okay with it. Now that the adrenaline from the battle is starting to wear off — it's not as easy to completely deny the need for her help. ]
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[This is... just what's happening here, I guess. Berserker was injured in that fight, and Emiri can fix it--so of course she's going to fix it, no matter what!
So!
She just adds, chipper in their mindlink:]
Anyway, vampires are supposed to be, like, really romantic. For some reason...? I don't really get it, but it means it's probs fine to give it a shot.
[Isn't that convincing?]
How do you wanna do it? [Drink her blood, she means.]
early w4, post rider-berserker alliance meeting
It all means Emiri's head is spinning.
She sighs a bit, shaking her head as they both settle back into their current living space (this time, a house they were taken into as transfer students).]
Everything's, like, super complicated now... and I guess we're gonna have to do a bit more fighting after all.
[Not that that's a surprise, since they're both very committed to seeing this through. But still! Totally not rad at all!]
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It's going to be... difficult...
[ They settle in nearby her, seeming to have calmed down a bit for the time being. When it's just the two of them, it's easier for them to keep a clear focus of everything they're fighting for. She matters most of any contestant... that won't ever change, no matter who they have to draw their blade against. ]
Are you afraid....?
[ Over time, they've grown a little more confident in talking with her - not always feeling like they need to ask permission, at least - so while the question comes out meekly, quietly, they ask it without hesitation. ]
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Mmhm... I'm super afraid.
[She fiddles with the end of one of her ponytails, frowning a little at her lap.]
I'm afraid that something's gonna happen to Vergipi and Donutan... I'm afraid that Ryuchu and Archan will suffer... and most of all, I'm afraid of something happening to you...!
[They've made it through so much together, and she has total faith, but...! There are still so many challenges to overcome.]
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Even if I can't win here... the thing I've been most scared of during this war is you getting hurt because of me.
You've been fighting for my wish all this time... and helping me... without a clear wish of your own. You never had to, but you did...
[ It's a selfless kindness that she's shown them. And they won't ever forget that. In a way, they feel a vast debt to her, for the countless times she's gracefully and effortlessly showed them compassion. She's never faltered once, in staying by their side - never doubted them. They've turned almost everyone they know against them somehow — so Emiri's unwavering friendship, all this time, feels all the more monumental. ]
So as long as I can protect you... that's enough. To me. I'll be fine...
[ In other words, if something does happen to them... they won't mind, so long as they're able to keep her from much harm. They have more to say about her fears regarding the other Servants and Masters, but they feel their opinion on this matter is more pressing - deserves more care in its delivery. ]
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But this is different. This time... they want to protect her because that's explicitly what they want to do, isn't it?
It's as nice to hear their hopes and dreams as it is overwhelming to know that she's a part of it, just like this.
A tiny sniffle, and she reaches out to rest a hand on their clenched fist.]
I'll be okay! I'm sure of it. I've got you, and I don't think everyone else is really coming after me [two ambushes later this feels untrue], and like... I'm p tough too, ya know?
So I guess if you're gonna worry about me... lemme keep worrying aboutcha until the end. Okay?
[That will make her feel better, just as being protected by Berserker makes her heart feel warm in her chest.]
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It's not because I think you're weak...
[ They'd known from the beginning that Emiri had magical talent — they don't doubt at all that she is, ahem, "p tough." But, this is what they're good at, right? It's what they were made for. Being strong and able to withstand the force of any opponent. At least with her, they can use their power for something good, something they believe in. ]
It's because you're... my... f... fr...
[ FRIEND, THEY'RE TRYING ]
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That's how I feel too. We're friends! Besties, even!
[She has Decided This.]
You've done so much for me even in such a short time, and like... I'm so, so glad all of this time has been spent with you!
[She wouldn't want to be partners with any of the other Servants--this is what feels right, and this is what's made her so happy, despite everything that's happened in this war.]
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They wouldn't want anyone else as their partner, either. ]
Um, earlier, when we were with Rider... it made me think of something. About the time we have left.
[ It's only a matter of time before the war ends, regardless of who the victor is, given their collusion with their allies. And though the words themselves may be ominous, their expression remains uncharacteristically lighter, managing to make eye contact for just a bit longer than normal. ]
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In the end, they can't stay together.
And that's just the way it is.
Emiri isn't a stranger to the fact that sometimes that's how life pans out despite her young age; it isn't anything she's going to fight or rail against. But it does mean her lips pull down into a frown, her shoulders slumping a bit. Still... Berserker must be thinking about something important to bring it up. For once, their expressions are reversed--Berserker's is lighter than normal, even as Emiri can't help but frown.]
Mm...? Like, what's on your mind?
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But they're not a stranger to not getting their way. Actually, that's pretty much the natural order of things, to them. It's sad, of course, seeing how she wilts, and they wilt a little too, biting the inside of their lip. It takes a second, and they look... well, slightly embarrassed, once they're able to utter the words. ]
...It's Crona. My name...
[ Why tell her now? Before, they'd thought telling her would probably only make her sad, were they to lose in the early stages of the competition. But, now... selfishly, they want to be remembered by her than something other than Berserker, or even the beloved nickname she'd bestowed upon them on the first day. If their days are numbered together no matter what, at least they can feel comforted that she'll live on, knowing who they were. ]
I wanted you to know it. Before, um... the war ends.
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She wasn't expecting that at all, and it's clear from the look on her face. She's been curious a few times, of course, but telling people their name was something a Servant might never do, and she could at least understand why.
But this... this is a form of Crona's trust, isn't it?
This is their affection and belief in her in one simple but ever-so-meaningful gesture, and Emiri lights back up like the sun as it sinks in.]
Crona... that's such a nice name!
[And honestly, Emiri nicknames every single person she meets, and it slips out immediately:]
Crororin--
[... But then she shakes her head, expression soft.]
Mm, nah. Crona is perfect. Thank you for telling me... I'm super duper happy right now.
And... I really like your name!
[And she really likes being able to finally use it with them.]
by god i'm going to use this icon once in this game
The smile that breaks out on their face is warmer and brighter for it — unbidden by the tension that their features are typically wrought by. That they trust her completely is clear — they'd never relax this way around anyone else. ]
Um, I'm... happy, too.
[ And they mean that! Even if the delivery is a little shaky. They're still not very accustomed to talking about their own feelings, awkward as a newborn foal at it. But in this moment, they want to convey their heart to her. ]
THEIR PERFECT SMILE
She beams at them in response, and they can be certain that their feelings, their heart--it came across to her loud and clear.
She reaches to squeeze their hands again, grinning.]
Aw, look! You've got such a nice smile, Crona! It's, like, lighting up this whole room to the max!