"Those bastards!" Project5's voice reverberates through the room, a tempest of fury personified as he seizes the table, its weight rendered insignificant in the grip of his rage. With a primal roar, he hurls the table towards the wall, the impact sending splinters and debris scattering like shrapnel. "How dare they!" His words are a thunderous declaration, echoing his indignation at the audacity of Nobu and Reina, who dared to challenge him.
The Collingwood-colored rune on his chest gleams with a malevolent light, a symbol of his burgeoning power and resolve. The twisted smile on his lips speaks of a malevolence ready to be unleashed. "They'll have to wait, for now," he sneers, the fire in his eyes dancing with anticipation, "Once I've mastered this Focus Magic, their defiance will mean nothing."
Alex, a juxtaposition of nonchalance amidst the storm of Project5's fury, lounges in the dark corner of the room. His fingers toy with a lighter, conjuring flickering flames that cast erratic shadows upon the walls. "Easy there, tough guy," he drawls, his voice a casual counterpoint to the storm brewing around them, "No need to work yourself into a frenzy."
Project5's gaze, sharpened like a blade, bores into Alex as he whirls around to face him. The tension in the air is palpable, an unspoken confrontation of wills. "Who are you to dictate anything to me, Alex?" Project5's retort is laced with venom, his voice a snarl that reverberates in the dimly lit room. "You've never tasted the searing irritation of facing them, so your words hold no weight here, understand?"
A momentary lull descends, broken by Alex's voice, its cadence lower, an ember of bitterness hidden within. His head drops, the lighter suspended mid-air as his fingers still. "I've faced just one of them," he mutters, his tone darker and tinged with frustration. He lifts his head slightly, eyes narrowing with a fierce determination. "And I swear, if I don't get my hands on that Nobu, the very kingdom they hold dear might just become enveloped in a smoky haze of chaos." A self-assured grin dances upon his lips, arrogance, and ambition intertwined as he contemplates the havoc he intends to unleash.
With a sharp click of his tongue in response to Alex's audacious declaration, Project5's attention pivots toward another enigmatic figure in the room. Seated calmly, the man's countenance is obscured by an iron mask that grants him an air of inscrutability. "What about you, Project2?" Project5's voice is tinged with impatience as he regards Project2, his gaze locked onto the piercing yellow eyes that gleam from behind the mask. "Do you have anything to contribute to this riveting conversation?"
Project2 remains an emblem of silence, an embodiment of aloofness as he reclines in his chair within the shadows. His stoicism is unyielding, a testament to his resolve to withhold any utterance. "Hah," Alex interjects, a mocking grin tugging at his lips as he raises a hand in jest, "Still unable to spell a word, I see."
The room's tension is underscored by Alex's voice as he continues, his eyes scanning the dimly lit expanse, probing for the presence of the other projects. "Kolossal is already positioned where he needs to be," he muses aloud, his tone contemplative, "But what of the two dwarves? And that Tobio who was tasked with keeping an eye on us?"
"I don't know where Nysi and Bandemun took off," Project5's response carries a nonchalant shrug, a sign that he too is perplexed by the whereabouts of their elusive comrades. Settling into a seat, he indulges in the pleasure of sipping wine from an entire barrel, the rich liquid satisfying him. "This stuff is hitting the spot!" he exclaims, relishing the taste of the wine as it courses through him.
"As for Tobio Irie," Project5's grin widens, a sly mirth dancing in his eyes, mirroring Alex's own amusement, "Warhammer dispatched him along with the hoarded Arcane Energy." His words are laden with a veiled significance, a secret shared between conspirators. "Thus," he declares with a sense of ominous anticipation, "a certain seal is poised to shatter." The implications of his revelation hang heavy in the air, like a prelude to impending upheaval.
Meanwhile, in the expansive garden that stretches beyond the castle's gate, a sense of anticipation hangs heavily in the air. Satomi, Queen Ashide, and the others stand amidst the garden's tranquil beauty, every passing moment feeling like an eternity as they await the return of Nobu and his companions.
"It's dark already," Satomi's voice is a murmur, laced with unease as her leg fidgets in restless rhythm. Unwanted scenarios echo through her mind, each one more unsettling than the last. "What if they didn't make it?" Her words carry the weight of her fears, her anxiety taking hold as she finds solace in biting her right thumb.
However, Kokoa's presence offers solace amid the uncertainty. With a gentle yet unwavering touch, she places her hand on Satomi's shoulder, a gesture of reassurance that speaks volumes. "Satomi, don't let panic take hold," Kokoa's voice is firm, a pillar of strength wrapped in warmth, "Have faith in their abilities. They will return unharmed."
Satomi's troubled gaze meets Kokoa's serene and comforting smile, a counterpoint to the turmoil within her. "I want to believe that," she breathes, finding a flicker of hope in Kokoa's words. Her attention drifts to the rest of the team gathered around, each one sharing her apprehension. "I just hope that they won't linger out there any longer than necessary," she voices her concern, her wish palpable in the air.
As Queen Ashide, her anxiety is palpable, her restless energy causing her to pace back and forth. Her hands are tightly crossed against her chest, a physical manifestation of the apprehension that swirls within her mind. "Please, return safely," her silent plea is a fervent prayer that she sends out into the universe, a plea to the forces that govern fate. The weight of responsibility bears heavily on her shoulders, and she can't bear the thought of losing any more of her soldiers.
The worry that emanates from Ashide seems to spread like wildfire, infecting the sacred soldiers who stand vigil alongside her. Each one carries their own burden of concern, their expressions reflecting the depth of their unease. Ash clenches his fists, unable to shake off the gnawing feeling in their guts. while Yamato fidgets with his armor, his fingers moving unconsciously as he struggles to quell the rising tension.
In a moment that breaks through the tense atmosphere, Katsu sits on the soft grass, his eyes closed as if seeking refuge from the weight of worry that hangs in the air. But then, a sudden change comes over him—an expression of both relief and astonishment sweeps across his features. His eyes open wide, and his voice carries a mixture of surprise and joy as he utters a name that fills the hearts of all present with hope, "Reina..."
The collective attention of the group pivots instantly to Katsu, their gazes locked onto him with a mixture of anticipation and eagerness. The air seems to vibrate with the shared anticipation of what he's about to say. And in those moments, the garden holds its breath, waiting for Katsu's words to confirm their hopes, "I can feel Reina's pure power, they're here!"
His declaration is a spark that ignites a flurry of movement among the gathered individuals. Those who were seated rise with an almost synchronized motion, a rush of excitement propelling them into action. The garden comes alive with the sound of hurried footsteps and rustling grass as the group surges toward the entrance of the castle. It's a moment of shared elation, a collective release of tension as the news of their comrades' return sweeps through them like wildfire.
Finally, the scouting team emerges from the castle's entrance, their presence a beacon of relief and victory. The figures of Kaeya and Nobu, still cradled in Sayuri's protective shadow hands, draw the eyes of all. While the sight of Raiden leaning on Osamu for support is met with a mixture of pride and sympathy.
"Master Kaeya and Raiden are the ones who need medical attention the most for now," with an air of urgency yet tenderness, Sayuri gently places Kaeya and Nobu onto the ground, her spell's embrace dissolving to reveal their unconscious forms. Yagami, responsive and caring, immediately stands by her side, his eyes reflecting a mix of concern and restrained emotions. His words carry a soothing yet heartfelt plea, "Your face could use medical attention too, Sayuri."
Her head shakes slightly, a determined expression etched onto her face as she kneels beside Nobu. Her hand touches his cheek gently, her touch a testament to the bond they share, "Nono is just asleep, don't worry about him," she reassures with a feigned smile, attempting to quell the anxieties that loom around her.
Raising her head to address the others, her voice wavers for a moment as the weight of the situation settles in. "But, I think he's the one who's worn out the most, so..." Her voice trails off, her eyes widening in realization as she observes the glistening trails of tears that adorn Ashide and Ash's eyes, their emotions laid bare before her.
Ashide's hands instinctively clasp over her mouth, her words muffled yet brimming with gratitude and relief, "Thank God! Oh, thank you, God!" Her emotions resonate like a symphony of joy, their melody a testament to the overwhelming sense of deliverance that courses through her veins.
Ash, his demeanor more restrained yet no less expressive, begins to hide his eyes behind his forearm. His voice trembles with a mixture of emotions, each word heavy with the depths of his feelings, "I... I know you're strong enough, to be honest..." A choked sob escapes his lips, his vulnerability unveiled as tears gather beneath the shelter of his arm, "But... But still... How dare you... All of you..."
As the scene unfolds before her, Sayuri's own resolve wavers, her tough act crumbling beneath the weight of her emotions. In an instant, the walls she's built around herself prove to be no match for the flood of feelings that surge through her chest. With a heart heavy with guilt and affection, she can no longer hold back the emotions that have been churning within her.
Without hesitation, Sayuri throws herself into Ashide's waiting embrace, seeking solace and forgiveness in her arms. Her voice trembles with remorse as she speaks, her words laced with a sincerity that's impossible to ignore, "I'm sorry... I'm so sorry..." The tears that had been held at bay finally escape, streaming down her cheeks like silent rivers of regret.
Ashide's weak yet gentle arms encircle her, her touch a soothing balm to the turmoil within her heart. She doesn't need to say a word; her embrace speaks volumes, offering comfort and understanding during Sayuri's emotional storm. Her fingers find their way to Sayuri's short hair, ruffling it gently in a gesture of reassurance and affection.
"I'm sorry we worried you," Sayuri's voice quivers as she continues, her words a pledge born from the depths of her heart, "I promise I won't do it again!" The weight of her promise hangs in the air, her determination to learn from her mistakes and protect those she cares about clear in her voice.
Katsu's fingers find their place on Kaeya's neck, his touch delicate yet brimming with concern as he monitors the steady rhythm of his mentor's heartbeat. Nearby, Kokoa hastens to Raiden's side, her eyes focused and gentle as they meet his. "Ow," a fragile voice escapes from Raiden's lips, a mere whisper of pain that captures Kokoa's attention, their gazes locking in a moment of shared understanding.
"Lie down, Raiden," Kokoa's words carry a soothing command, guiding the injured boy to settle beside the other two as her heart swells even more the moment her eyes set on Nobu. Though his body protests every movement, Raiden lifts his head to catch one more glimpse of Kokoa. Regret and gratitude blend in his gaze, and he doesn't waste a second before expressing his sentiments, "Kokoa..."
The weight of his word is swiftly brushed aside by Kokoa's tender response. Her hand finds its way to his head, affectionately tousling his hair as her eyes soften, "No need to apologize, shortie. Just rest for now, okay?"
Meanwhile, Shinso's hands rest upon Osamu's shoulders, a blend of strength and gentleness in his touch. His eyes hold a fierce pride as they meet Osamu's gaze, his words profound yet simple, "I'm proud of you." The weight of those words leaves Osamu momentarily speechless, his astonishment evident in his agape expression. "You did great, all of you," Shinso reaffirms, his voice carrying a depth of sincerity that resonates in the very core of Osamu's being.
As for Satomi, she stands before Reina, her hands clenched in a mixture of worry, relief, and emotional turmoil. Her eyes shimmer with tears, emotions swirling within her gaze as she gazes at the boy who has returned from the battle, the weight of her fears and anxieties settling upon her like a heavy burden. Reina, in turn, finds himself at a loss for words as he confronts her raw vulnerability. He looks at her for a fleeting moment, then averts his gaze, unable to bear the intensity of her emotions, before mustering the courage to meet her gaze once more.
His voice trembles as he breaks the silence, awkwardly waving a hand as he struggles to find the right words amidst the overwhelming atmosphere, "H... Hey there, Satomi... We... We made it ba..."
"Care to explain this?" Satomi's voice cuts through his attempt at consolation, laced with a mixture of frustration and anguish, as her unwavering gaze remains locked on Reina. The weight of her concern is palpable, and Reina begins to grasp the extent of their worries, especially Satomi's.
"I... I... I..." His words falter, leaving Reina searching for the right way to address the turmoil that hangs heavily in the air. He tries to soothe their collective tension, to convey the trials they've endured, but before he can formulate a response, he's caught off guard by Satomi's actions.
Her right-hand rises, her palm connecting with Reina's cheek in a gentle yet impactful slap. His emerald eyes widen in surprise, his gaze locked on her as the tears in her eyes finally begin to fall. Satomi's hands find their way to his shoulders, her touch a mix of desperation and release, as she pushes him with a force that topples both of them to the ground. Satomi comes to rest atop Reina, her body pressed against his as the emotions they've both been suppressing spill over.
"Idiot... Stupid... You're the most annoying of them all..." Satomi's voice trembles with a mixture of anger and vulnerability, her words a raw expression of the emotions she's been holding back. Tears stream from her ruby eyes down her cheeks, falling upon Reina's clothes like delicate raindrops, the evidence of her pain and frustration manifesting in every drop.
"You keep on acting so recklessly," her voice gains a bit more force, cutting through the air with its urgency, "At least... At the very freaking least... If you don't care about your life, think about those who cherish you! Idiot!"
Her words resonate throughout the room, catching the attention of their companions who have gathered around. Her voice carries the weight of her fears, her frustration, and her love, a potent mixture that hangs in the air like an unspoken plea. Satomi's breath comes in heavy, uneven gasps as she continues to pour out her emotions, a torrent of feelings that have been pent up for far too long.
"S... Satomi," Reina's voice trembles with a mixture of astonishment and tenderness as he speaks her name, his heart aching as he witnesses her outpouring of emotions. And at that moment, as if she had been waiting for his response, Satomi doesn't hesitate to act. She leans her whole body against his, her head finding its place on his chest as she allows herself to release the flood of tears that have been building within her. Her grip on his clothes remains tight, a physical anchor to the emotions she's been struggling to contain.
Reina's arms encircle her, his own tears kissing the grass as he holds her close, the warmth of their embrace a testament to the unspoken bond that ties them together. No words are needed; their shared vulnerability speaks volumes, a language that transcends spoken language.
"I was so scared," Satomi's voice quivers, her words muffled by the fabric of Reina's clothes as she speaks against his chest. Their heartbeats echo in unison, the rhythm of their emotions intermingling in the intimate space they've created, "If you died, I didn't know what I'd do... I was so scared, Reina!"
Her confession hangs in the air like a fragile thread, connecting them in a moment of raw and unfiltered emotion. The weight of their experiences, the battles fought, the pain endured, and the love cherished converges in this tender exchange. In this shared vulnerability, they find solace and strength, their connection deepening as they navigate the tumultuous journey of life and the bonds that tie them together.