Chapter 219 (Patreon)

“So, Kairi.” I took a sip of my drink. “How you doing?”

Kairi turned to look at me before giving a grunt. “Same old same old.” He down his shot pretty smoothly.

“You want some juice, Rin?”

“Screw off.” She huffed.

“Hehe.” I nudged her shoulder even if she rolled her eyes, there was a little smile on her face. “But for real. What’ve you been up to, Kairi?”

“Is this really the place to talk about that sort of stuff?” He glanced at the Bartender who stood not far away.

“I come here with Izanami to have drinks and talk about random things.” I shared a look with the Bartender who nodded at me. “It’s unlikely that anything we say will leave this place based just on that. But if you want more assurance, I’m in a relationship with Yasaka, the woman who rules over this city. Not to be arrogant, but I have pretty much can do what I want.” Obviously, I wouldn’t want to cause trouble for her, but the point still stands. “But..I can understand your sentiments.” I gave the Bartender another nod before dipping my finger in my drink and using the liquid to draw a couple runes, creating a makeshift Bounded Field around us.

Actually, the owner is under a contract with Izzy. She supports the place, make sure it and him are taken care of and in return she gets a few benefits. Among the conditions was something about revealing confidential information.

“Neat trick.” Kairi spun around in his stool, drink in hand. “Saw Bazett do something like that once.”

“You’re seriously nonchalant about talking about this stuff in private when you’re usually really…private.” Rin commented.

“Honestly, it’s really not that big a deal. He’s missing some massive context, not to mention that Artoria is already known and there’s already some talk about her. She helped me when we defended this place from a bunch of terrorists. Who I might add are reincarnations, or descendants of Heroes who tend to take the names of their ancestors.”

“Really?” Kairi perked up. “Reincarnation is a real thing over here?”

“Kinda, sorta. It’s still the Age of Gods so the cycle of souls is a bit…. malleable. Everyone has their own realms of the dead still so shuffling a soul through their own methods still is possible without disrupting the world’s flow.” Not to mention my own circumstances…

I couldn’t help but smile as I glanced over to see Artoria and Mordred still talking.

“I got Gramps working on the delicate parts, but otherwise, I got your payment.” I looked back towards Kairi.

Kairi just grunted, taking a cigarette out of his pocket and lighting it up. “Shit, I probably made more just walking around her for a few days picking up knick-knacks than the money I’ll get for the War.”

“For real?” Rin looked surprised. “Is stuff here that valuable back home?”

“Depends.” I swiveled in my stool. “It’s not so much that things are strictly valuable by themselves, but there are many things that are just lost to time that are required for many different uses. Imagine not being able to cast a Greater Ritual because a certain Flower is missing, but it still grows around here like a weed?”

“Hmm, good point. Well, I don’t think I have to worry anymore. With the loot I got from running around in that god-forsaken place, I’m probably set for life.” Rin hummed.

“You ready to head home at some point, Kairi?” I asked. He was good sport and stuck around for a bit while everything got settled.

Honestly, he was a good guy, I liked him.

Surprisingly, Kairi looked conflicted. “I don’t suppose you’d need a Freelancer on a more…permanent contract?”

Huh. I hadn’t thought he would want to stay.

“As it so happens, I find myself in need of someone with your specific set of skills.”

“Oh?”

“Yes, you see, I believe my Girlfriend has recent come into contact with a little lion that could do with a caretaker.”

Kairi snorted, pushing his cigarette into a nearby ashtray. “For something like that, my pay needs to match the difficulty.”

“Don’t worry, I’m not short on money.” I waived it off.

“Well, you could always ask your sugar momma.” Rin teased. “Isn’t that basically what you called Yasaka?”

“Someone sounds jealous.” I grinned.

“Bah, who’d be jealous of you.”

“Fluffy tails, all mine.”

Rin huffed in response.

“For real though, money isn’t really an issue.” I turned back towards Kairi. “I also turned the Yggdmillennia family into my sorta-subordinates. They’re going to rise up after my help and I’ll be raking in a lot of resources soon.”

Kairi let out a sigh. “Well, It’s not like I had anything that really bound me back home. My family is pretty much gone, and what’s left I haven’t spoken to in years. If they get a little bit of good will like you said, I’ll consider it even between us and cut my losses.”

Equivalent exchange – Karma. Lots of names for the same thing even if understanding sometimes differs. Well, he has a good head on his shoulders, so he isn’t just jumping ship without settling things in his heart.

“You have more opportunities here too. People here aren’t’ as guarded for their magecraft and you can probably pick up the local casting system relatively easily.”

“I took a look at it already.” Kairi nodded. “Didn’t seem too complicated on the surface.”

“You keep bringing people here, Schweinorg. You got some scheme going on?” Rin asked.

“Not particularly.” I shrugged. “But if it helps Yasaka, I’d call that a win. This is more or less where I set up my home, and I want it to do well.”

I was too neglectful of her own worries and burdens. I want to help alleviate those when possible. While I won’t try to coerce Mordred to do anything, I think she wouldn’t mind working under Yasaka…especially if Artoria’s ‘descendant’ is around.

Meridia and Yasaka were the only ones that had firm foundations that couldn’t be moved. Meridia didn’t need my help and I doubt I could provide her anything useful. Yasaka on the other hand, I hate to say it, but her faction isn’t very strong.

So I would do my best to support her when I had time, like now. I fulfilled my desire to resurrect Scáthach, now I had no immediate goal, so I would set this as my target.

I should ask her how she dealt with those Hero Faction idiots. If she needs help extracting their sacred gears, that would also be a large boon to her faction.

I should also ask her for her opinions as well. I don’t want to start assuming anything. For all I know, she doesn’t want to further expand her influence or to increase her faction’s potential and is content on keep the status quo. I certainly don’t want to step on her toes as her faction leader, that would be a big no-no as far as boundaries in our relationship go.

“Schweinorg.” Rin poked me.

“Oh, sorry, got lost in thought.” I pushed those to the side for now. “But yeah, always welcome you. Even if you want to retire and live a peaceful life here, I’m sure Mordred would love it. I can’t claim to know how close you two are, but I don’t think she’s one to be so open to a stranger.”

“You mind if I get some things from back home? Just got a few personal items I’d rather not part with.”

“Sure, I can give you a lift when we’ve worked everything out.” That was easy enough to do.

“Thanks.” He nodded towards me in appreciation as his attention was forced back behind us.

Artoria and Mordred started walking over showing a lot less awkwardness between them. With a little flick of my finger, I removed the Bounded Field.

“Yo.” Mordred casually walked over. “They got any good stuff here?” She started eyes the drinks on the shelves.

“I think they have a minimum age requirement.” I replied.

“I’m older than you.” She said without missing a beat.

“Height requirement?”

“This suppose to be a fuckin rollar coaster?” She snorted.

“How do you even know what that is?”

“Random things, I don’t know. Half the shit the Grail gave me I have like no context for. Like, the fuck is a Maserati?”

Huh, that really is just a random thing it told her.

“A type of car.” I said idly. Well, Mordred seemed much more relaxed and back to her normal self, so that’s good.

“Whatever.” She shrugged. “Oi, Necromance, we’re done. I wanna go back to watching that thing on the TV.”

“It’s called a movie.” Kairi sighed standing up. “I’ll catch you all later.” I waived a casual goodbye as Mordred and him left.

“I’m guessing you settled things for now?” I turned towards Artoria who had been silent in these few moments.

“Yes, we have talked about several things.” Even Artoria seemed more….peaceful.

“You look better now.” Rin commented. “Not like you’re going to your execution. You good?”

“I’m……good.” Artoria nodded as we headed out ourselves.

I set some money on the counter and followed along.

Artoria let out an uncharacteristic sigh. “But I feel as though I am exhausted.” She took the initiate and reached for my hand as we walked down the street. “Thank you.” She looked up at me. “There is still a long ways to go before either of us truly moves on, but I feel as if a weight has been taken off my shoulders.”

“I didn’t do anything. You’re the one who was willing to confront your own demons.” Not that I was calling Mordred herself a demon….but I think she got my sentiment. “I just brought her around.”

“I’m happy for you.” Rin spoke up. “You going to be seeing more of her?”

“Yes, I do believe I will. It had been……rocky as a start and there were still some strong feelings…but I believe u will be trying to spend more time with Mordred. I wish to try and be a proper parent, as ridiculous as it sounds since we are both dead.”

“That’s going to be tough, she didn’t seem like someone who needed a parent. But she also seemed to really look up to you.” Rin shrugged. “I don’t really have any advice to give, so try not to force anything I guess.”

“Yes, your words do make sense. I will give time for our new and strange relationship to settle and go from there. As Wilhelm has told me on several occasions, we have plenty of time and we’re in no rush.” She smiled happily.

Happy Artoria is really heartwarming.

“Well, I’m fully awake now. You wanna eat a few gallons of ice cream and watch some bad TV?”

“That sounds wonderful.” Artoria responded immediately.

“Well, I know when I’m not wanted.” I laughed.

“Wilhelm, I didn’t mean to – “

“I’m kidding.” I gave her forehead a little poke. “But I also won’t get upset when you want to spend time away from me. You’re taking a break from adventuring in Skyrim, go be lazy with Rin. You certainly deserve it after everything.”

Rin looked happy at my words even if she didn’t say anything. I know they didn’t mean anything by what they said, so I didn’t take offense.

And I want her to also understand I don’t intend to come between the relationship they built.

Besides, I’m definitely going to get her one of these nights~

“Thank you.” She said quietly. “You have been everything I hoped for in a boyfriend.”

“Really?”

“Well…..some of the things I desired…..” She had a blank look, staring at me before a little smile formed on her face. I always have enjoyed her sense of humor.

“You ‘re adorable.” I leaned in and she welcomed me with a loving kiss. I didn’t prolong it as I know Rin was standing right next to us and I didn’t want to make it too awkward on her. “Go make Rin poor again with your appetite.”

“Hey!” Rin looked indignant.

“My appetite isn’t that bad!” Artoria also squeaked out.

I just laughed again at their reactions.

“I’ll see you both later, I’m going to hop over and see Izzy.”

“Oh, please give her my best and tell her to come visit. I wish for her to meet Rin and we can spend time together.” Artoria perked up at the mention of our mutual friend.

“Still weird to think about.” Rin muttered. “But what the hell, bring Japan’s Death Goddess to come visit when you have time.”

I looked one last time at Artoria’s beautiful smile before opening up a portal and heading to Yomi.

***

Omake – How to devil.

“I don’t understand how I got roped into this.” I sighed, leaning back in my chair. “This makes no sense.”

“You don’t know how to behave like a devil.” I sat up a little straighter, staring at the origin of the voice as she sat behind her desk. Sona Sitri stared back at me, her annoying look as she tried to look stern and mature. Honestly, it just came off as needlessly haughty. “You’ve been at this how long?”

“I haven’t. Because there’s no need, this is stupid.”

“The Contracts –“

“I already analyzed the concepts intertwined in the contracts. They’re a medium to extract ‘desire’ based on the payment received of our ‘client’. It’s absorbed by the inherent ‘sinful’ concepts of our nature, converting it into Demonic Power, albeit in a miniscule amount.”

“……”

“What?” I questioned.

“How did you figure that you? It’s not exactly public knowledge.”

“Isn’t it obvious? I took me like thirty minutes to analyze it. You even gave me a perfect sample….how could I know see what’s going on?” I blinked.

“…..be that as it may –“

“Wait, how long did it take you to figure out?”

“Not important!” She huffed. “Now, moving on. I’m going to teach you how to complete contracts.”

“I already know how.”

“I’m going to teach you properly – “

“How to read? Because that’s literally all there is to this. I don’t know why you lot make such a big deal out of this nonsense. Take contract, get summoned, complete request, receive payment. Should I make a power point presentation and start hosting a Ted Talk to the Devils on how to not be idiots?”

Sona let out a little growl. “There’s more to it than that.”

“Like that?” I leaned back crossing my arms.

“What if you can’t complete the contract!” She shot back.

“Then you say – I’m sorry this is beyond my ability to complete. Would you like something else?” I said very dryly. “It’s not like they’re hard to complete anyways.”

“You wanna bet on that?”

“Oh…..do you actually have something worth betting?”

“One command.” She raised her finger up. “Loser has to listen to one command of the winner. No ridiculous requests obviously.”

“A gentleman’s agreement then.” I hummed. “Fine, whatever. I guess I can get you to dress up as something fun for a single day at school.”

She scowled, shifting through her draws before slamming a contract infront of me. “Complete this one!”

I stared at her, standing up and slapping my hand on the paper, activating the summoning magics. I didn’t’ blink as it overtook me, and she looked at me with an arrogant smile.

With a flash of light, I was in the living room of a house I didn’t recognize.

“Are you the one who answered my request – Nyo.”

I turned to look at the very deep voice that spoke. A very large man, covered in muscles with a very skimpy magical girl outfit that barely covered him.

Oh, that bitch.

***

With a flash of light, I appeared back in Sona’s office, sliding back into my chair.

“What should I do with my command?” Sona looked rather smug.

I raised an eyebrow.

“What’s wrong, no more retorts?” She smiled. “Nothing to say? No more smartass remarks? Are you going to accept that I can properly teach you how to be a Devil?”

I didn’t respond but flicked my hand, separating the curtains at the window.

She turned to look at my action with confusion only before she noticed something strange and her eyes were transfixed on the figure flying around the school.

“Never fear, Magical Girl Kaleido Mil-Tan is here!” A very deep voice boomed all around.

“And Kaleidostick Opal!” The Wand in his hand spoke as well.

Sona’s mouth hung open as she slowly turned towards me.

I stood up.

“W-what did you do?”

“What does it look like?” I snorted. “By the way, I sent a video to your sister.”

“Y-y-you didn’t!!” She looked horrified.

“And I think I’ll be using my command. You still have a Pawn Piece that you haven’t used yet? I think Mil-tan would be a wonderful addition to your peerage.”

“No…..you wouldn’t…” She gasped.

“That’s the difference between us, Sona.” I straightened my tie. “When someone asks me to turn them into a Magical Girl, I turn them into a goddamn Magical Girl.” I flicked a peace sign as I walked out of her office. “How’s that for being a Devil.”

***

Izzy is up next, should be fun. And Sona still butts heads with Wilhelm even in an omake.