“Nynette, leave us alone. I will speak with Polina privately.”

The maid nodded, giving a small, cool smile towards Polina as she’d leave the room. Throughout the meeting it was hard to get a bead on her, save seemingly for her propensity for her mouth to be constantly giving off a small, if friendly seeming smile.

“I’m glad we have a moment to talk, Polina.” Livia would motion for the maid to sit across from her in the sitting room. There was a set of tea sitting on the coffee table between the two of them, but throughout the meeting it had yet to be touched. “I heard you gave Myrilla a hard time, going in guns blazing. Good work, though. Decisive action is needed in situations like that.”

Polina subtly sat up straighter once they were alone. The request to stay behind after the briefing had momentarily caught her off guard, but after thinking on it, it made sense in her head. Like the Maison’s newest maid, her employment had been unique, after all. Where this private conversation would go remained to be seen, though.

She considered Livia’s complement, searching for an ulterior message before mentally shrugging. She ignored the untouched tea. It would be impolite to take a sip before the mistress did. “We don’t do things by half-measures where I’m from,” she replied, lips twitching upwards briefly before her face returned to that of a professional. “But, forgive me if I’m being presumptuous– we’re not here to discuss more about Cogsfell and the debriefing, are we?”

“Heh,” Livia chuckled, a small smile forming on her lips. “Quick to get to business then? I can’t say I don’t appreciate that. I’m of a similar mind, usually.” She’d cross her legs, leaning back against the couch she was sitting on. “How is Lady Giselle? I’ve been abroad for the past half a year as you likely know, so I’m getting caught up on the most recent events.”

The Farisian maid nodded. “Lady Giselle is doing well, if perhaps a bit frustrated by matters of state. The usual, really.” Even five years later, a neutral state like hers was still dealing with the aftermath of the war. Refugees and even matters with the church, despite Farry being a more secular land, were all things her mistress had to deal with. Under her employ, Polina had first-hand experience with that mess… which was considered stable, relative to her experience so far with Oros’ domestic situation. Demons, it seemed, might be a third issue, though she had the impression Giselle took the same realpolitik view on them as she did for everything else. Why else would Polina be here?

“I’m sure she has also mentioned it in her letters, but she has had some successes in her alchemical experiments,” she revealed, wondering how Livia would respond.

“Oh? Alchemy, hm?” Livia responded. “Yes, I recall that. I’ve dabbled myself, but my education is centered more around the practical and more esoteric magics. I’m curious as to what success she speaks of, though.” The noblewoman frowned lightly, glancing towards the tea set. “Do you have any sort of insight into that? Or shall I need to arrange a trip to see her sooner rather than later?”
Polina noted the unusual turn of phrase, but didn’t outwardly react to it. Instead, she slightly canted her head to the side, almost innocently. “A little bit. I do know for sure that the new opera house she’s having built will be exceptionally robust and completed in record time because of it,” she offered, parroting some details she had been given. She knew more, obviously, like the fact that the same alchemical methods used to preserve building materials beyond their usual life worked just as well on humans, but you didn’t just give spicey details like that up on the first try. Not without reciprocal exchange when you yourself were probing for information. “The weather in the Principality is quite nice around this time of the year, but I’m sure if you write to her, she would be willing to share some more details in the spirit of cooperation.”

“Building materials, eh? I suppose that is like her to focus on infrastructure.” Livia replied with a small smile, though her tone indicated a slight bit of displeasure. “Do pour some tea, would you, Polina? And while you’re at it, perhaps you can answer the question I called you in here to ask.” A slight pause. “What do you think of demons? In general. Speak as freely as you wish.”

The Farisian maid gave the slightest of shrugs in response to that. It wasn’t much of an answer, after all. Maybe in the future, if they established better levels of trust… “Of course, mistress,” she answered, taking a moment to serve the beverage. She used the opportunity to think over Livia’s question. Of all things, that was one that she had not expected to be the reason she’d be called in for– she doubted it was about Elizstrazia. She considered the rumors around Livia, and the purpose of her organization. Her answer, obviously, was likely to impact the nature of her employment here going forward…

She finished pouring, and decided to answer truthfully, hedging that Livia shared at least some of the Farisian disdain for the church and its doctrine by her employment of Elizstrazia.

“Is this about the new maid?” Polina asked, despite her conclusion. She paused, before continuing. “They are the enemy, as the Kyrsa had been, but no more, no less. If they are attacking and destroying our cities without abandon like… wild beasts, then it’s obvious we must respond in force, and you have, and that is also why I’m here,” she nodded at Livia. “But I have no more against them as a whole than I do the nation that destroyed my original home in a war that they hadn’t even wanted. If they can be civilized, like Eliztrazia, or any such demon that would be willing to play the game, then I have no issue with them. But beasts and animals, I’ll never condone, and that appears to be the majority.”

“The church would have you executed for blasphemy for such talk.” Livia replied, a small smile as she’d lift a teacup to her lips. “I suppose I can respect such a stance. If someone is able to be redeemed, or otherwise a useful tool then there is no reason not to use them.” The noble took a long sip of the beverage. When she was done, she’d set the glass down, standing up with her usual unreadable expression.

“It is not about Eliz in general. Poor thing has been through quite a lot.” There was a slight mocking tone in Livia’s voice as she spoke. “But you know, I’ve met many a demon. I’ve traveled to the furthest realms of Naraheim before I was even twenty.” She’d walk over to a nearby window, peering out of it and watching the Clemantis be prepped for travel. “You know what I’ve decided? I can’t stand them.”

“It’s a good thing that the church does not have an outside influence where I’m from, then. At least not anymore,” Polina replied, finally taking a modest sip from her teacup as well. She nodded. “I suppose that is what Lady Giselle did with my sister and I, though your description of it is a bit clinical.”

The maid broke her own poker face, if only slightly, by raising her eyebrows in surprise at her mistress’s frank admission. “Not many have gone into those lands, yet alone survived.” She thought about it for a moment. “And you found them wanting. Thus the Maison.”

“Any scholar with an ounce of magical talent visits Naraheim at least once in their life.” Livia replied, turning away from the window and walking behind the couch she had been previously sitting in, fixing Polina with a studious gaze. “How else could one resist the temptations of devils except to experience them first hand? To know thine enemy is to be able to defeat them. The church believes it can rely on faith alone to curb evil, yet sometimes those of faith often commit the most atrocities. That, is why the Maison was founded. To prevent anything from harming this realm. Be it demons, the church, or any realm within the cast off skins of the serpent…or something else entirely.”

“I see,” Polina replied, bringing her teacup to drink as she thought about her words. She idly wondered if Giselle had or would make such a trip, but quickly dismissed the thought as unimportant for this conversation. What Livia had said was already a lot to think about. She met Livia’s gaze. “That sentiment I can agree with. The war…” She frowned at the senselessness of it all. “Forgive me if you’re being rhetorical, but are you implying there is an entirely separate threat?”

“The war had a purpose, though it wasn’t what the church believed it to be.” Livia replied. “I’m sure you heard of my mother and her collaborations with…undesirables, but I digress.” Livia exhaled, frowning momentarily as she chose her next words. “Perhaps there is, perhaps there isn’t. But whether there is or not, you must agree sometimes, to protect what we desire, we must find allies in the strangest of places. The incident a while ago aside, I would like to ask you to personally look after Eliz.”

Polina let her skepticism show about the necessity of the war, but given her background, it was only natural. She slowly nodded at Livia as she mentioned her mother, but remained silent, sipping tea herself as she watched her mistress mull over how to respond to her question. Well now, wasn’t that an answer in and of itself? She gave her a small smile. “I can agree with those words.” She paused, “That unfortunate incident earlier aside, I don’t mind looking after the girl.”

“I would hope not, as this is a direct order.” Livia replied rather brusquely. “Learn about the demons from her, as well if at all plausible. Ask questions. Learn how they work more. I am curious as to hear your opinion on them later once you get more familiar with them.”

Polina let herself frown slightly. The order had been phrased as a request, so she had acknowledged it as such. She noted her mistress’s preferences there for the future, she would not be caught off-guard again. “Acknowledged. I’ll give you a report once I get to know the girl.”

“Good.” Livia replied. “Then you are dismissed. I’ve work to do and a maid to discipline.”

Finding Rosanna was fairly easier said then done. She didn’t spend much time among the general maids often, preferring the solitude of her room, the library, or the gardens of the maison, often engaged in esoteric reading, rituals, or other similar things. Eventually though, Lucrecia would be pointed to her in the direction of the gardens…

Finding her though, would still prove something of a challenge. Searching the entire gardens for the reclusive maid would eventually lead her to a far back corner, secluded away from the rest of the garden where even the small talk and bustle of the maids looking after it weren’t heard. What was, heard, though…was the familiar voice of Lady Fiore and Rosanna.

“Still no leads, Rosanna?”

“Mhm. Not one.”

“Hm, quite troubling. Well, I’ll keep an eye and ear out regardless. Are you sure you don’t wish to attend this next mission?”

“Thank you for the consideration, but I am confident this has nothing to do with the demon I’m looking for Lady Fiore.”

The two were speaking idly around what seemed to be a large magical circle drawn into the dirt with a series of stones. Two trees had been grown in odd shapes that seemed reminiscent of some sort of small fairy or other imp. Rosanna was using the end of her broom to seemingly finish a connecting line on the circle.

The accented maid had finally happened upon Rosanna, the most magical inclined member of the house. Going off rumors and hearsay from the other maids, the witch maid was often rather hard to find. Rosanna seemed to be the type to keep to herself, stereotypically so. Quite often could she be found reading books or conjuring potions, avoiding social interactions as much as possible

However, Lucrecia hoped that coming to her for certain reasons would persuade her to lower the wall she's built up around herself. Though it pained her, she had to admit she didn't pick up on the usage of magic as well as her peers. She's made due with the rudimentary knowledge she holds of using magical weapons to cast entry level sorcery and sealing away demons, but she knew it wouldn't be enough to fall back on in more dangerous situations. She needed to get stronger. Magically.

To her surprise, upon finding the witch in a small corner in the garden, she saw Rosanna talking with the matron of the house. From what she gathered, Rosanna seemed to be looking for clues for a specific demon's whereabouts. Being that it's likely to be exceedingly powerful and dangerous, it was all the more reason that Lucrecia had to prepare.

"Mi scusi, Madonna. I do hope I'm not interrupting. May I have a moment of Ms. Rosanna's time?" She said to Lady Fiore.

“Ah, Lucrecia.” Livia greeted the maid with a small nod of acknowledgement. “We were merely having a friendly discussion.”

“I’m not accepting visitors or requests.” Rosanna would say curtly to Lucrecia.

“Now, maybe you should at least hear her out before giving her a complete rejection.”

Starting things out with a flat rejection, and without hearing her out at first, goodness. Well, it was to be expected, all things considered. However, perhaps Lady Fiore's presence was just the boon that Lucrecia needed.

"Grazie, Madonna." She replied to Fiore, politely bowing. "Ah, Ms. Rosanna, I've only a humble request. I understand that you are the most magically inclined of the veteran staff here at the maison. The training provided to us in regards to using weapon catalysts and sigils has been most efficient. However, it has always been my personal desire to give more than adequate performances." She said, her eyes full of sharp determination. "I wish to achieve even greater results in my service to Lady Fiore, and to be honest…magic has never been my strong suit. That is why I request, if you will have me, to be under your direct tutelage in regards to the finer points of sorcery."

Indeed, Lucrecia was as aware of her strengths as her weaknesses, which is why she also sought to turn those to her advantage as well. This was all, of course, dependent on Rosanna's answer.

“...I will not teach you how to make frivolous love potions or paltry party tricks.

“I do not believe that is what she asked to learn.”

“Hmph, everyone always wants to learn but they never have the wherewithal to stick with it.” The other maid replied gruffly. “Most run before they even make their own catalyst, let alone understand the finer points of the aether.”

“While I do agree, Rosanna, one must never let opportunities go. Perhaps you will be surprised one of these days.” Livia glanced towards Lucrecia. “With that said, though, learning magic can be dangerous and exhausting. You will need to devote a large part of your time to learning it and do not be afraid of potential consequences.”

Lucrecia couldn’t help but squint at the sorcerous maid at her statement. Lucrecia has been referred to as many things in her service, but a cowardice slacker who bowed out when the situation was too extraneous was not one of them. While Lucrecia just got through stating that magic was her strong suit, on what grounds did she dare challenge her mettle?!

“Signoria Fiore and Madonna Rosanna, I must say I’m rather cross with your statements. You, who reviewed my extensive background, need to question my willingness to pursue self-improvement. While under employment, I’ve done nothing but strive to exceed all expectations, which is doubly important for a freelancer who doesn’t have the constant backing of a noble family or well established business. Exhaustion and danger define my day to day life.” She said with complete solemnity, then turning to Rosanna. She had already made note of the large, handmade magic circle the lady and the witch were standing in. She looked intently at the two oddly shaped trees growing in the center, it looked like Rosanna was going to connect a line before Lucrecia drew her attention.

“Besides, the coming battles will become more difficult if I don’t improve in every area I can, and I have no intention of ending up on the Maison’s obituary list.”

“Ah, apologies. I did not mean to offend.” Livia offered a small apology.

“I did.” Rosanna rather curtly replied.

“I merely meant to warn and to caution. As a practiced magic user myself, you see, it would be remiss of me not to mention such dangers.” Livia snapped her fingers, a pale blue flame alighting at the tip of her pointer finger. “Young mages or those seeking magic often believe it will be as easy to learn as any other academia, but let me assure you, to master magic one must…think outside of the box and never allow oneself to believe one to be a master of their craft for a moment. That is how demons and uncertainty will get you.”

“I still refuse.”

“Ah, Rosanna…” Livia sighed. “And now It seems I must make it an order.”

“...May I inquire as to why?”

“Its sometimes said one can’t truly be a master of something until they teach it. One can learn quite a lot by teaching, too.”

“...very well.”

It seemed that Lucrecia’s guess was correct, Lady Fiore had won her the day. She maintained a serious and respectful expression to maintain professionalism, but on the inside Lucrecia wore a childish, triumphant grin. “You have my utmost gratitude for your generosity.” She said. She paid close attention to the blue flame Livia generated with not but a snap of her fingers. It was her hope that with this training, commanding magic in such a natural way would be within her repertoire as well.

“As I’ve said, my life has been a struggle that required clever thought for as long as I can remember.” She responded to Lady Fiore’s explanation.

“Now, is it fine if we begin at this moment?”

“Then you should be right at home mastering magical arts.” The blue flame was snuffed out. “You can start your assignment by telling me what sort of fire that was after our next operation” She’d flash Lucrecia a somewhat challenging smirk before walking off. “Now if you’ll excuse me, I have more important matters to attend to.”

“...what an unreasonable request, but if I simply tell you she will know.” Rosanna replied with a sigh. “But very well, let us begin now. First, let us see what the basics you know are. Grab a catalyst and do some basic magecraft. Most mages start with simple tricks involving making mundane tasks easier. Grabbing items from a distance, levitation. That sort of thing. Now, do remember that all magic does require an invocation for focus - a chant if you will. Simple spells can be a few words, but more complex ones may require much more. Do you know why this is?”

“Such things are needed in order for the caster to draw and direct the magical energy. Most beings, notably us, are unable to innately cast spells of this nature otherwise. That is why we need incantations, catalysts, and the like Madonna.” Replied the accented maid.

While Lucrecia didn’t have much practice with the sorcerous arts, she at least had a functional knowledge of it. After all, how could she hope to delve into the world of magic and gain something from it if she didn’t even understand it at its most surface level? But, it seemed that Rosanna wanted more than knowledge - she wanted practical application. Walking toward a nearby table, Lucrecia looked at a small assortment of tools lined on it. Staring for a moment, she decided she would go with a small knife. It had a sapphire gem that glistened in the morning sunlight as she held it. She decided to go with this one, perhaps unconsciously, due to it being a familiar enough tool. Tightening her hold on the instrument, she began focusing, attempting to channel the energy and manipulating it with the jewel as the center of casting.

What would she cast as her first spell? Well, the matron’s demonstration seemed as good a place to start as any. “Precious stone of Azure, heed my call. Bring forth the flame, blue as the clear sky!” She proclaimed.

She honestly didn’t know what to expect, but she hoped for the best regardless.

Rosanna watched with mild interest as Lucrecia began her chant. She could feel…something, pulling itself into the stone. Like something was collected from the air around her and from her own body, pooling into the stone. It was soon followed by a surge of energy outwards from the stone, up the knife as a single puff of fire expelled itself from the blade. It was rather weak, and definitely not blue colored.

“...hm. Well, that’s something that will be fixed with practice, Lucrecia.” Rosanna replied taciturnly. “However, I will say…blue flame can’t be made just from practice. As much as I’d like to give the answer, I can’t. What I can say though, is that a colored flame usually has a slightly different source of power then just magical power, meaning Livia uses some other source of magical energy for that blue colored flame, if that makes sense.”

For all the effort she put in, the result of Lucrecia’s spell casting was much more…lacking than she had hoped for. As opposed to having generated a blue flame like Lady Livia did, all she got was a normal one. If it could even be called normal, it might as well have been a small puff of smoke, barely an ember. A sour look had enveloped the accented maid’s face at her failure.

“Merda…” She uttered.

She became attentive at Rosanna’s explanation: apparently there was more to generating a different color element than simple concentration and mana regulation. Something else was needed aside from a catalyst to achieve the desired effect. Lucrecia thought to herself briefly, going over various answers in her mind as to what that something could be. Her eyes popped a bit and she raised her head, as it seemed something came to mind.

“Madonna, would perhaps etching a rune on the knife create a different effect, or perhaps one could be placed on my hand?” If the knife, jewel included, weren’t enough on their own, perhaps adding something completely new to the equation would be the answer.

“Don’t be so critical. While a child could do better, you have not been training since birth like I or Lady Fiore. Practice daily and hourly and your control and cohesion will increase.” Rosanna would fall silent, taking a moment to consider Lucrecia’s question. In the meantime, she’d let the question hang as she’d finish whatever rune she was drawing on the ground, her broom muddy with earth as she’d take a few moments to inspect her work.

“...you have the correct thought, but are missing the mark.” She’d say, huffing. “Runic engravings are useful, but I would not recommend engraving them on your flesh unless you desire a short life. To create a different colored flame, you must as I said, consider the source. Runic engravings would not create a different color for the simple fact they would draw upon the same power…unless those Runes were of elsewhere or otherworldly in nature. Such as demonic runes or script.” Rosanna frowned. “...perhaps an example is in order to show what I mean.”

Reaching into her pocket the maid would pull what seemed to be a pure white, hard colored magical wand of some sort. The handle was a deep blue, almost black and encrusted with amethysts. The wand portion was pure white, but segmented in places.

“This is the bone of a demon. I would get used to such tools if you intend to follow the path of magecraft. Now, then…” Rosanna inwardly breathed before uttering a single word. “Flare, vestige of life.”

At the end of the wand, an ash colored flame lit. Rosanna would cup the flame in her hand.

“The flame is this color as its drawing on the power of this demon.” Rosanna reiterated. “And as you might note, it does not produce heat but that will be a topic for another time. Do you understand?”

Lucrecia watched intently as Rosanna carved out a glyph on the ground, though she paid more thought to her words. Well, she could at least say that she was on the correct track, but apparently the general catalysts that were used in spell casting all drew from the same sources. To achieve her desired effect, she would need to use an item that is able to draw mana from another place entirely.

That’s when Rosanna took out another magical wand, its peculiar appearance suggested that it may have had a special attribute when compared to its contemporaries. Rosanna would confirm her thought, stating that the wand was made from a demon’s bone. After chanting an incantation, an ash-colored flame appeared at the tip of said wand. “Ah.” Lucrecia now understood. Of course, objects and carvings that were demonic in nature would draw energy from a different source from the norm. She was still curious as to how Lady Fiore was able to create a blue flame.

“I believe I do now have a working understanding of it, Madonna.” Lucrecia said. “I would like to ask, was Signora Fiore able to create a blue flame due to the material her gloves are made out of? Or, does have some special item in her hand?”

“Neither.” Rosanna replied simply. “An item isn’t strictly required.” She’d snuff out the flame, a lingering, nostalgic scent permeating the air. “It was merely an example. So long as one has access or an ability to use such other sources of power…say for example, the priests that use Divine Power of Oros. They have merely drawn upon his power. Or those demon worshippers that learn secrets from the demons.”

Their conversation would however, soon be cut short as one of the hedges would suddenly and quickly be turned into a salad, branches and leaves being severed and cut in half.

“Ha, that you could hide out here, eh?” The unfortunately familiar voice of Myrilla would walk through the section of foliage that had been cut as she sheathed her sabre. “Come here, brat. We’re going to have a friendly chat.”

More thoughts began to swirl in Lucrecia’s head at Rosanna’s statement, and she began to see Lady Livia in a different light. It wouldn’t be surprising for someone of her standing to hold secrets not accessible to normal people, but she wondered from what source she drew her spellcasting from. She doubted that she drew it from Oros, she didn’t seem like the priestly type, no offense to her. Does that mean that she…?

Her thoughts were cut short as a nearby bush was suddenly torn to shreds, which was then followed by a familiarly unpleasant voice bellowing at her. Lucrecia would turn to see her combat instructor, Myrilla, emerging from the foliage like a predator happening upon its prey. She appeared to be in a foul mood to boot. Well, more foul than usual anyway.

“Madonna, I wasn’t hiding, I was simply gaining some insight into the world of magic from Rosanna. Is there…something that we need to discuss?”

“Is there something…” Myrilla laughed. “Oh, no, I just wanted your company.” The combat instructor grabbed Lucrecia by the collar of her uniform, proceeding to drag her back the way she had come in. “Of course there is brat.” Her voice took a more aggressive tone.

“...I was in the middle of a lesson, Myrilla.”

“What of it?”

“...ha, make sure she comes back in one piece at least.”

“Sure, sure.” Myrilla would proceed to practically drag Lucrecia away from Rosanna, to a far more secluded part of the gardens, off to one side of the manor just outside the greenhouse. Where upon the maid would find herself being roughly shoved against the greenhouses wall, Myrilla positioning herself in front of her.

“Do you know why I dragged you out here, twerp?” She lit up a cigarette, seemingly expecting Lucrecia to know.

Lucrecia winced a bit with the force that Myrilla grabbed her with. “Scuse, Madonna.” She said, “It appears that I’m needed elsewhere for the time being. Thank you for your time, I’ll be sure to practice with what I learned today!” As she spoke, her voice became lower and lower over the distance that Myrilla dragged her. Eventually, she was led just outside the Mason’s greenhouse, the wall of which she was aggressively pinned against.

“Ah, yes instructor. I imagine it is the way I conducted myself in regards to your self-proclaimed training exercise with Eliz?” Lucrecia said in a neutral tone. While the expression on her face wasn’t one of joy, she knew better than to show aggression or apprehension. Especially to someone like their combat instructor.

“Hmph, at least you're not as dumb as you look.” A puff of smoke blew right in Lucrecia’s face. A seemingly now favorite mild intimidation tactic. “I’ll be honest, at first I was rather irritated that you’d think to question your superior. Chain of command and all that.” Myrilla continued, a small smirk forming on her lips. “But the more I thought about it, the more it amused me. And the more it amused me, the more I thought…perhaps I should talk to ya.”

A laugh.

“Lets just say, ‘Lulu’, you’ve piqued my interest.”

“I see,” Lucrecia said, trying her best to ignore the bitter smoke blown in her face. She hadn’t quite expected this reaction from Myrilla, a woman who would toss a subordinate off of a ship without regard as to how they would land. Perhaps Myrilla was the type of violent spitfire that liked it when someone else showed some backbone.

“Well, I’m glad that I could at least get a few chuckles out of you, Instructor. Although, for the record, the orders to defend Eliz and make sure she stays out of trouble came from Signora Livia herself. I believe she stands at the top of the Mason’s hierarchy?” She stared Myrilla eye-to-eye, a solemn and taciturn gaze to be sure.

“Therefore, I’d argue that the chain of command was followed to a T, rather than broken. Aside from that, I feel that you wanted something more from me than just to, how you say, shoot the breeze?”

“Hah, don’t sass me unless you want me to make you run a hundred laps, do a hundred pushups and run 10 kilometers in a single day.” Myrilla retorted with a light chuckle. “You’re right though, I’m here more than just to talk.” Myrilla leaned in a bit, throwing a friendly arm over the other maids shoulder. “I’ve got something I want you to do for me. Don’t worry, its nothing shady or something you’d get in trouble for…as long as you don’t get caught.” A little chuckle and an exhalation of smoke. One of Myrilla’s hands grabbed Lucrecia by the cheeks, squishing them slightly. “No doubt our esteemed leader wants to recover that demon for herself…but I think it might be better in my hands.”

Lucrecia’s taciturn expression broke for a moment as Myrilla finally cut to the chase: She wanted the demon in that artifact! She winced as Myrilla squished her cheeks, which made her grit her teeth.

“You’d…you’d ask me to break the chain of command, risk my employee and likely my safety, just for your personal gain?” She said “Let us say I do this; I’ve no idea what you plan to use the demon for, but provided it doesn’t jeopardize the well being of the Mason, what do I stand to gain from putting my neck on the line?”

“I won’t lie. I don’t have much to offer you. I doubt you’d be swayed by the pleasures of flesh, power, or monetary gain.” Myrilla chuckled. “But what I can offer you, is opportunity. I can personally train you, and oh, I think…an acquaintance of mine, Baron Roksandic might be interested in meeting you.”

“Roksandic!” Lucrecia’s eyes nearly popped out of her head at the very mention of that name. That dreadful, foul, gut-wrenching name. “You know of that pompous, slimy, arrogant, fat, pig-roach, petty noble piece of shit?!” She spat her words with potent venom. “How? He vanished without a trace and hadn’t been seen for years, before that he was incarcerated! I should know, that figlio di puttana tried to have me thrown in there with him!!”

After she thought about it for a moment, it wasn’t too much of a surprise that individuals at the Violet Garden may know of Baron Roksandic. At least, Lady Livia seemed to have heard of him; the scandal that his house was involved in was the center of the public eye for the time it was relevant. Despite being a low ranking noble, he was well known in his town for his philanthropy and backing of key political figures. That is, to say, he made sure he had friends in high places. Was Myrilla one of these to him, she seemed to know of him as more than just newspaper gossip.

“Madonna, I will say that the coglione can no longer be counted as a baron, despite what he may think. I would ask how you’ve come to know him and what exactly he wants.”

“That’s some amusing language, but patience, Lulu.” Myrilla replied with a chuckle, pulling away from the other maid with a smirk. “There is time for everything, but what would I be doing if I told you something without getting something in return first. You do this favor for me, and I will reveal something about Rosandic that may be enlightening to you.” Myrilla would hold out a hand. “Do we have a deal, Lucrecia?”

“...” Lucrecia was silent, looking at her instructor with a suspicious gaze. Unfortunately, Myrilla didn’t seem as though she was going to budge anymore on the subject. However, she supposed that all of her questions would be answered if she went along with this crazy plan of hers., In addition, she’d finally have a chance to settle the score with that bastard for the hell he put her through. She only hoped that Myrilla was a woman of her word.

Reaching out for her hand, Lucrecia firmly shook it, signifying her acceptance of her instructor’s terms. “Si, Madonna, it’s a deal. I will see about obtaining that artifact for you, along with quelling my curiosity. At least, for now…”

“We have an accord then.” Myrilla laughed, firmly and aggressively shaking Lucrecia’s hand in turn. Her grip was strong enough to hurt. “You have my word, and on my honor that even if this little scheme goes awry, you won’t be blamed or face any backlash.” She’d move, placing another hand around Lucrecia’s shoulder with a smirk. “I think, this will be the start of a wonderful partnership between you and I.” She’d release the handshake. “Don’t worry, I may not be going on this next assignment but I’ll be in contact with you regardless. I have an idea for how we’ll pull this off. Now, just to make sure no one gets suspicious, act natural.” She’d whack Lucrecia firmly on the butt before shouting angrily. “Now get back out there on the training field and if I so much as have you ever back-talk, sass, or go against my orders again, I’ll have your head on a silver platter and served with a side of cannoli!”

Lucrecia made an irritated wince at the aggressive handshake Myrilla gave her, which was made even more uncomfortable when she got closer and wrapped her other hand around her elbow. She was assaulted again by the thick smell of smoke coming from her breath. “That’s good to kno- ACK!!” She made a surprised yelp as her rear end received a hard slap, which was followed by an angry threat. Giving her one last glance, she began walking back to the others, holding her backside as she did. Honestly, she seemed to have taken a que from Kat during the last mission, much to Lucrecia’s chagrin…

She had to admit, Myrilla was one of a kind, she never had a superior quite like her. At least she was leagues above Roksandic, not as though that’s really saying much. She still wanted to know how Myrilla became acquainted with that man, and what he’s doing now, as he’s been missing for quite some time. She was sure she’d find out soon enough, she just had to worry about how they were going to pull this off right under the nose of Lady Livia. Hopefully this wouldn’t come back to bite her.

Katherine had always had some problems with that Dress-Maker. Nothing too terribly bad of course, but she could never convince her to make the more intricate dresses for her dolls that the maids themselves were privy to. Something a little more protective than the things Katherine herself could make.

Now, though, she had a secret weapon she was let known to her by Viatrix as an off comment. “Coffee, Coffee, Coffee. I wonder just how much she can drink.” The Firbolg said as she made her way to the little room Tiki used to make her clothing. In tow, she had an amount of dolls following her. One holding a tray with a coffee pot and some mugs. Another with a tray with sugar and cream in cups on it. Soon enough they came upon the door of which Katherine opened without knocking. “Greetings Tiki, I come bearing a request. As well as gifts.”

The moment Katherine attempted to open the door though, she’d be met with a surprising amount of resistance from something on the other side. Once again there was the sound of something heavy being moved, dragged across the floor. The familiar face of Tiki would peer out of the cracked entryway not long after, glaring at Katherine.

“...I’m not taking requests. Leave. Now.“

“Don’t be rude or I’ll just have to drink all this coffee by myself.” Katherine mentioned, stepping aside so Tiki could see the doll holding the coffee pot. “But, if I must leave I can go enjoy this with other maids that have no sense of taste~” The Firbolg said as she turned around, pretending like she was going to leave with her coffee.

“...what kind?” Tiki questioned before Katherine could walk away fully.

Katherine smirked before turning around showing only a kind face. “Oh, it’s not much. I was just wondering if you could help me design and prepare some more protective maid uniforms for my dolls.” The Firbolg continued smiling as she walked back toward the door. “In return, I have coffee prepared for you and, perhaps, more on the way.”

“...the coffee. What kind.”

“Coffee…” Katherine wasn’t sure what she was expecting. “It was some expensive brand that I’ve… Acquired from… Somewhere. I’m not the biggest expert on types of coffee beans and such but I believe this one was at least called a ‘medium’ roast.” Katherine cited, remember as much as she could from the packaging she pilf– acquired.

Tiki narrowed her eye slightly at the Firbolg, seemingly wondering if this would be worth it, but smelling the freshly made coffee and the promise of being given more, the seamstress would relent with a small huff.

“...very well. Inside.” The door would swing open, the dimly lit interior not having changed a bit from the last time she was here as Tiki would soon close the door behind the two of them. “Use the fitting room.” She’d say, leading Katherine into the room where they had fitted Eliz’ dress a few days prior.

“Thank you~” Katherine cooed, pleased to have gotten this far at least. She and the dolls made their way in and headed where Tiki had told them to. “Glad that demon has a uniform now. It’s fitting on her. Pride demons really do have their pride, don’t they?” Katherine joked, having her dolls set up the coffee set. “So, Tiki, you really do like coffee then, I take it?”

“Pride…? Scale…she’s a scale demon.” Tiki responded with her usual tired, dry tone as she’d shut the door to the fitting room behind her. “Conceited. She’s tiring.” The seamstress showed Katherine to one of the couches in the fitting room. It wasn’t quite a room fitting for taking a snack break in, but the small atelier didn’t have much else in it…perhaps it brought the question to mind where exactly Tiki slept since she never left.

“Yes. I do.” She’d say, expectantly holding out a hand for Katherine to give it to her.

“Pride, Scale. Same thing.” Katherine mentioned, continuing to gloss over that bit. After setting up, the dolls started working together. One would take the coffee pot and pour it into a mug. The first was handed to Tiki and another to Katherine. “Just let the dolls know how much cream and sugar you want. Katherine held her mug out and one doll put in two spoons of sugar and then poured a small bit of cream before the Firbolg herself grabbed a stirring spoon and mixed up the drink.

“Cream…sugar?” The other maid frowned ever so slightly. “None. Black.” Tiki eyed the dolls carefully, though seemed slightly disappointed if this was all Katherine was going to be offering.

“You just like coffee black? Well, to each their own I suppose.” The dolls took a step back and gave a little bow. “Feel free to drink as you wish then.” Katherine stated as she took a sip of her drink. Coffee wasn’t a favorite of hers, but she could stand the taste at least.

“...what do you want?” Tiki asked, matter of factly taking the mug of the drink. “I have allowed you into my abode in exchange for material goods. Let us lay the terms of the agreement now.” She’d bring the mug of hot liquid to her lips, seemingly completely unbothered as she’d proceed to drink it down in a large gulp.

“Yes, well, as I mentioned before. I want your help designing some uniforms for my dolls.” Katherine mentioned, sipping on her coffee some more. If Tiki would lower her mug, a doll would pour more of the dark brown drink. “Since you have a talent for making quite the protective garb for the maids, I figured it’d be useful for my dolls.”

Tiki would lower the mug, allowing the doll to pour in more coffee. The Seamstress maid exhaled languidly, eyes seeming a bit unfocused for a few moments before she’d sigh, setting the now full again mug on a nearby work table.

“I refuse.” She responded bluntly in her typical fashion. “Unless I receive something in return I’ve no interest. Now leave, I am quite busy.”

“You can hardly expect much when you neither state nor let the other party state their terms.” Katherine shrugged, not seeming intent to move. “For all you know, I was going to offer you more coffee but, what a shame that I’m going to be kicked out.” The Firbolg said, leaning back a small bit and sipping on her coffee more. “After all that work to get into a certain someone’s secret stash of goods.”

“Secret…stash?” Tiki paused a moment, frowning just slightly. “I don’t know who would keep this as a ‘secret’ stash.” The maid responded. “It is nothing special. The roast is good but there is no other taste or hardly anything noteworthy about it. Barely worth a single copper.” The maid brusquely responded. “If someone thinks this is worth anything more then they are a mere fool who can not properly say the correct value of goods.” Tiki coughed. “...Liv cut me off from coffee. Said it was affecting my work. Perhaps a deal can be arranged for more…flavorful blends.”

“You should just consider yourself lucky that you’re getting this stuff if you’re cut off from it.” Katherine grumbled, “I suppose this isn’t good enough for the maid that can’t drink any coffee at all.” The Firbolg said, sipping back on her drink again. She gave a sigh after finishing her cup off and sitting it down. “So, what “flavorful blends” do you have in mind?”

“Apologies. Mundane coffee…lost its charm.” Tiki retrieved her cup once more, taking another drink despite not being a huge fan of it. “...still not bad, though.” Tiki replied languidly before moving to the topic at hand. “Naraheim. Sometimes gives birth to plants and creatures similar to the human realm.”

“Naraheim?” Katherine questioned, not expecting to hear that out of the blue. “What? You want demon coffee beans?” Katherine questioned, raising an eyebrow. “Not that it’s impossible or anything but… Difficult, perhaps.” The Firbolg went silent for some seconds, “But why, pray tell, do you desire such exotic beans?”

“I’ve had nearly every coffee in the human realm.” Tiki replied simply. “So I would like something a bit more flavorful and exotic. Certainly, you can understand, miss mage.”

“Is that so?” Katherine replied, “I suppose I can. However, getting a hold of items from Naraheim… You realize it’s no simple task? One does not simply walk there and pick flowers.” It was not impossible. But it was not exactly reasonable. “Unless you happen to know someone that sells coffee beans from Naraheim near us.”

“That sounds like something you should handle.” Tiki replied in a somewhat taciturn voice. “I have, however, heard the Lady of the Manor stores items from her travels to the demon realms and other places. Perhaps she has something you could use.” A small, almost imperceptible smile.

“If that’s so, it’s easily manageable then. It means I shouldn’t have to go far.” Katherine stated like it was some picnic she could go on. “Still, It’ll take some time to find and… liberate them.” The maid admitted with a shrug. “I should be able to manage. I doubt she’ll miss it anyway. I’ve never heard stories of her drinking it.”

“Then we have a deal. Naraheim coffee beans for a doll dress.”

“Dresses.” Katherine corrects. “Multiple.”

“Tch.” Tiki clicked her tongue as she’d take another sip of the coffee that was being offered. “How many?”

“I need eight of them.” The Firbolg replied, bluntly. “Eight doll dresses made by the expert, Tiki, with future repairs and done before we leave for the next mission. You will receive Naraheim Coffee Beans and I’ll even brew it for you.”

“...mmmngh.” Tiki proceeded to down the entire rest of the mug, taking a few long gulps before placing the mug back onto the work table with. “Faaaa…..you know what, fine!” The maid said quickly, Katherine could note just a faint hint of redness on her cheeks. “You’re going to try and work me to death, ugh! But fine! If you bring me some coffee beans - I want an entire sack full, I’ll make your stupid dresses and rush them before the next mission. Do we have a deal then?!”

“Wonderful~” Katherine exclaimed before having her doll pour another mugful for the dress-making maid. “Another mug to a new-found partnership!” The doll then came over to pour another mug for the Firbolg and putting the cream and sugar in for her before stirring. The cat then picked mug up and drank. “You seem to quite enjoy the coffee despite your prior statement.”

“Mediocre coffee is still coffee.” Tiki replied, grabbing the next mug, clearing her throat as she’d plop herself down on the chair of the fitting rooms vanity desk. “But yes. And I do apologize for that outburst. Coffee makes me a little…excitable sometimes.” She’d take a long sip of the mug, seemingly realizing that downing it in a single gulp might look a bit bad though, she’d pull it from her lips. “How long are you staying or will you be leaving now?” She gave Katherine a light glare.

“Well, I did have another pot of coffee on the way but if you want me to leave…” Katherine stated, making to stand up. A doll poured the last of the pot into Tiki’s mug.

“Wait!” Tiki shot up from her seat. “-Ahem. I mean. I was not doing much else.” She’d sit again, burying her face in the mug once more. “Stay if you wish. Just don’t annoy me. Be quiet.”

“Quiet is tough for me.” Katherine stood anyway and made her way to the door. One of the dolls collected the tray the coffee pot was on and followed. As soon as Katherine opened the door, however, another doll stood there with a similar tray with similar contents. A pot filled with coffee. One doll left, the other entered and they had a new thing of coffee. “Drink as much as you like.” Katherine mentioned before sitting down.

“...very well then.” Tiki filled another mug, quickly downing some more. “...whew…Lady Fiore is quite mean, cutting me off from Coffee…” The seamstress replied with a huff. “I feel like she’s bullying me. Wanting to make and repair so many dresses…hmph.” If it was the coffee or something else that was making her more talkative it was a bit hard to say, but it probably was the coffee.

“She can be rather mean. I mean, just because I didn’t show up to welcome her she forces me to take “etiquette” lessons. Felt more like she intended to torture me.” Katherine agreed with the dress-maker. “Still, you do good work and that’s why I came to make my request.”

“I suppose you would find it good…” Tiki responded coldly. “...tch, I really would much rather spend my time doing other things. Dress making is merely a source of monetary gain.” A shake of her head as she’d fill her now empty mug again. “But…I as long as I get something out of it, I am happy to make such deals.”

“Well, it’s wonderful if coffee is what you desire as “something out of it”.” The Firbolg mentioned before asking her other question. “So, might I ask why you were cut off from coffee? Did your work suffer for it?”

“....no.” Tiki responded. “Why would coffee interfere with work?” The maid downed another mouthful of coffee. “I may have…used some rare coffee beans from the fey-realm that madam Fiore bought back without her consent.”

“That sounds like something that would happen if my recent experience is anything to note.” Katherine stated, watching the clothier maid consuming more coffee. Well, good thing was that there was more coffee on the way. She was curious how much Tiki could manage to drink. “Was it worth the rare coffee beans?”

“Difficult to say.” The Maid responded with a nod. “The taste was rich and savory, and reminded me of the forests it likely grew in.” A quiet pause. “...I suppose I’d say yes.”

“Well, that’s worth it then.” Katherine mentioned, seemingly happy enough for the other maid. “Hmm. Think you’ll get in trouble if Little Miss Fiore catches wind of me giving you coffee?” Katherine questioned, seeming unconcerned about it regardless of whatever Tiki would answer.

“Yes. Chances are likely the both of us well, as I will certainly tell miss Fiore you are my supplier.” The maid replied bluntly.

“My, how rude. Well, not that I’m necessarily worried about it. I’m fairly unworried about that even happening.” Katherine smirked before shrugging. “More coffee?” She asked again, motioning to the door as a doll walked over to open it revealing another doll with another pot of coffee.

“I’ve no reason to take a bullet for you.” Tiki responded bluntly, gratefully accepting more coffee from the doll, filling a cup with it and downing another mouthful swiftly after. “May I inquire as to why you seem to be giving into a maids vices?”

“Well, ever since I was little, raised by a terrible, terrible witch in some dark forest… I’ve been called a small bit of a troublemaker.” With a sly smile, Katherine shrugged again. “I don’t think I can manage to correct them.” The firbolg mentioned. “Now I’m just curious about how much you can drink before your belly bursts from too much.”

“...such a mundane reason as causing trouble?” Tiki tilted her head quizzically to the side. “...hmph. Are you certain you’re not a demon yourself? I do not understand such logic.” She’d merely shrug though, and down another moutfhull of coffee. “Fuwwwaaa~ Mhm, you might be waiting a bit-” There was a small hiccup as the maid covered her mouth. “-I can drink quite a bit despite my small stature.”

“Well, I can say with absolute certainty that I am no demon. That said, allow me to keep you company until you are satiated.” Katherine mentioned with a smirk. “Which comes first, my coffee making operations falling on its face or your ability to drink stopping.” The Firbolg noted the odd fact of Tiki hiccuping.