Loading User Commands:
[X] ... W-what the hell am I doing?

---

He licks his lips as he watches Patchouli sleeping. Her chest slowly moves up and down as she breathes. Her legs twitch involuntarily every few seconds. Her face and skin are a healthy pink color, though her hair is a bit of a mess. She can probably have it fixed up later.

"..."

After a few minutes, he realizes that he hasn't had his own fun yet. The pink and purple wizard might be unconscious, but he won't let that stop him. Perhaps he can "urge" her to wake up for another lesson. Or maybe she might wake up with a pleasant surprise already inside. He doesn't necessarily have to be too gentle with her, either. Doing something a little more.. "creative" is always a valid option.

Wait. Something is wrong here. Somehow, he feels like they are being watched. He quickly turns his head to see a female silhouette fleeing from the open door.

"Damn it!" he mutters.

He breaks out into a run as he chases the girl. Fucking good timing, isn't it? Just when he was about to have his merry way with the magician, something always has to come up. Shit really kills the mood.

Wait. Was he really going to violate her just now? His mind says, "Hell yes!", but that doesn't sound like something he would normally do. He hasn't even thought about his own feelings. Or hers...

"... W-what the hell am I doing?" he cries out loudly.

That person. She must have seen them. No, he can't let this situation go out of control. He needs to stop her and explain. She should be right behind this corner.

"Oh shit," he says as he slows down quickly. Thankfully, he manages to stop before slamming into someone.

"Careful now," says the person. "It's dangerous to run around the halls, you know? You aren't Flandre, so you should know better."

The first thing he notices are the man's glasses. Framed with silver, they glint brightly against the magical lights of the hallway. There isn't anything else that stands out about him. He is probably human, too. He seems to be holding something behind his back, but he can't see it clearly.

"W-who are you?" he asks. "I don't think that I've seen you here before."

"Of course not," the man replies. "That is because I'm not here. You can't meet someone 'here', if he isn't here. Simple logic, isn't it?"

".. What?" he replies blankly. That doesn't make the least bit of sense.

"In any case, I'm just another lost lamb in the wilds," the man says. "Though perhaps it is more accurate to say that I am a lost wolf in the forest."

"A wolf?" he mutters.

"Doesn't matter," the man replies. "I'm pretty certain that you are just another hallucination that my mind made up. It really is a difficult thing, going truly insane."

"I'm not a hallucination," he argues.

The man laughs heartily before swinging something at him. He can't see it clearly, but looks like a long weapon. The person misses, but the power of the attack could easily be felt. If that hit, he would be dead for sure.

"Yeah right," the man says. "And I'm not dreaming that I'm back at the Scarlet Devil Mansion. You hallucinations just keep getting dumber, don't you.."

Suddenly, the person's voice starts getting faint. His vision starts blurring once more.

Then, darkness.

...
[ ] There is still time to prepare.
[ ] They are coming upon us.
[ ] There is no hope.

The magician sits on her bed silently, a book still in her hands. She is practically hiding her face with it. While amusing, this will not make it any easier.

"Still reading?" he comments. "That must be a pretty good book."

"..."

Carefully, he sits beside her. But when he places his finger to touch the book, she suddenly backs away. She seems to be shielding herself with it.

"P-please don't," whispers Patchouli.

He nods slowly. Perhaps the book is helping her relax? In any case, he can't get it away from her without using his skills. And that would be boring.

"Alright, I won't," he says. "But only if I can touch something else."

He stands up and walks around for a bit, as if in deep thought. After carefully making sure that she can't see him from her position, he stealthily makes his way to the other side of the bed. The moment he leans on the sheets, she makes a tiny gasp in surprise. However, she seems too nervous to turn around. He pushes onward until he sits himself directly behind her.

"Just relax," he whispers soothingly. "Why so serious?"

He puts his hands on her back, feeling the heat through her clothes. She shivers slightly at his touch, but as soon as he begins to massage her, he feels her muscles steadily relax. Gently and professionally, he continues to rub her back until he can feel her breathing normally.

Then, he embraces her tightly from behind. She squeals in surprise, but she doesn't fight back. Somehow, she manages to hold on to her book. He takes a long, deep sniff of her beautiful lavender hair.

"You smell wonderful," he whispers.

They sit still together in silence. He patiently waits until the magician becomes accustomed to his touch before he gently loosens his grip. After all, it wouldn't be very interesting if she didn't enjoy it too.

Without warning, he slips a hand on her chest. She doesn't say anything as he lazily motions his fingers upon the thin fabric. He is pleasantly surprised to find that she isn't wearing anything under the dress. Steadily, he begins to build a rhythm as he rubs upon her breast. The magician continues to stay silent, but he can feel her breathing faster. He continues playing with her breast, gently pinching on her nipple as he proceeds.

She stays silent all through his motions. For a moment, he wonders if the girl isn't enjoying this. Slowly, he lowers his head right beside her ear. She doesn't seem to notice. He smiles as he blows into her ear.

"Aaahn~" squeals Patchouli. She closes her eyes and begins breathing heavily as he rubs her harder. Encouraged by the reaction, he slips his other hand under her dress and begins toying directly with her other breast. He calms himself, ignoring the enticing sensations on his fingertips, and casually compares the difference between touching her through the dress and under it. He varies his motions as he tries to get a better reaction from the girl.

She begins panting loudly as he gently nibbles on her neck. Her eyes remain closed, but her body seems to be accepting his attacks quite gratefully. He continues pleasuring her with his hands, occasionally slipping down to rub upon her thighs. Still both fully clothed, he smiles at the girl's reactions. While inexperienced, she is surprisingly sensitive.

Curious, he gently brushes his hand between her legs. Immediately, Patchouli pulls away from it. He smiles gently when he notices something. He stops touching her, and backs away. Patchouli opens her eyes and turns around to face him.

"E-eh?" she says.

"I'm not so sure if I should go on with the lesson," he says sternly. "You don't seem to be very enthusiastic about this."

"..."

"Maybe we should just call it a night and -"

"No!" interrupts the magician.

"Hmm?"

Patchouli covers her face with the book again. He waits patiently for her to calm down.

"Please," she whispers, barely audible. "Please continue.."

He smiles as he runs a hand between her legs. As he moves his fingers over her panty, he confirms the reason she pulled away earlier. She is pretty damp down there. He slowly slips a single finger to explore further. The moment she touches her clit, she jerks up and cries out. She shudders violently as she orgasms.

"Haa.. Haa.."

Gently, he lays the girl down on the bed. He fluffs up a pillow before putting it under her head. Patchouli gives him a grateful smile before her eyes shut in exhaustion and pleasure.

"..."

Then, he realizes that he hasn't had his own fun yet...

[ ] Next Lesson
[ ] Advanced Lesson
[ ] Hard Lesson
[ ] Extra Lesson
[ ] ... W-what the hell am I doing?

The magician's face is bright red. She seems to be struggling between her embarrassment and her true feelings. He waits patiently, savoring her confusion.

"I want you to.." whispers Patchouli. Her breathing becomes uneven as she mouths out the last words. She pulls her eyes away from the book and looks up at him desperately.

"Want me to... make you a cup of tea?" he suggests. "Or perhaps you want me to recommend a good paperback novel?"

She shakes her head so quickly that her hat threatens to fall off.

"Then what is it?" he returns.

".. must I say it aloud?" she whispers in the tiniest voice.

At this moment, he considers giving in to her. But immediately, he decides against it. The game has only started, after all. He takes a few steps closer and without warning, he puts a hand on her shoulder and moves his face close to her ear.

"You have to tell me exactly what it is," he whispers sternly.

Patchouli gasps in shock. Her eyes begin to water as she looks away from his gaze. However, she manages a weak reply with a voice no louder than a mouse.

"Teach me.." she whispers

"Teach you?" he repeats. "Well, I suppose that will have to do.."

He sighs as he looks at the newly colored magician. If Patchouli turns any redder, he would seriously consider taking her to a hospital. Perhaps he shouldn't push her any further. She might just faint, and that would mean much less fun for him.

In one swift motion, he sweeps Patchouli into his arms. She squeaks in surprise before giving him a puzzled and embarrassed look. He smiles gently at the magician.

"Perhaps you would prefer to have the lesson out here in the halls?" he says slyly. "I suppose that it is fine too."

"N-no!" she squeals as she struggles to get free. He tightens his grip and holds her close to his chest.

"Then where shall we play?" he whispers, letting his warm breath flow over her ear. She reddens furiously before replying.

"T-the bed," whispers Patchouli.

Loading User Commands:
[X] Go to sleep.

---

"You are late," says Patchouli.

She takes a passing glance at the firearm in his hand before frowning at him.

"Don't mind it. I just got a little... distracted earlier," he replies.

"Any trouble?" she asks quickly.

"Just a few rats in the cellar. Nothing unusual." he says with a smile.

"Hmm," she manages.

After a few moments, she buries her head once again in her book.

"Don't worry about it. No one is going to interrupt us this time," he whispers.

"Why are you still holding that?" she asks, pointing at the pistol with her other hand.

"Oh, this?" he says.

"Unfinished business?" suggests Patchouli.

"I think you are asking the wrong question, my Mistress," he returns. "Perhaps what you mean to ask is: 'is that for business, or pleasure'.."

Patchouli doesn't say anything in reply. Instead, she simply raises her book a little bit higher; perhaps as a futile attempt to hide her blushing face. Upon noticing his gaze, she starts shifting her feet around nervously.

He smiles mischievously at her behaviour. Perhaps he should tease her a little bit.

"So, my Mistress," he starts. "May I ask what task you request of me? We should make due preparations to do it thoroughly."

The pink and purple wizard grows even redder at that last word. Her eyes are still moving from side to side, but it is clear to him that she is only pretending to read.

"Forgive my poor memory, but I can't seem to recall the reason you called me out on this wonderful evening," he says.

"Umm..." she mutters. She opens her mouth to speak, but she can't seem to find the words.

"Anyway, if you have no need of my services, then perhaps I should leave," he says. Immediately, he turns around and makes for the door. He has only begun to turn its handle when the magician finally speaks.

"D-don't go!" cries Patchouli. She covers her mouth quickly, embarrassed at her sudden, high-pitched outburst. Quickly, she turns back to her book once more.

"Eh? So you do have a task for me, my Mistress?" he asks slowly.

"..."

"You have to tell me exactly what it is," he says. "I can't read minds, you know."

Loading User Commands:
[X] Don't omit the dreams, but refuse to specify; it hurts you too much to think about.
[X] You don't know, but all evidence points to yourself.
[X] Drink your tea.
[X] Have a biscuit.

---

"Were you expecting me?" asks Grey. He takes care not to put emotion into his words.

"Perhaps one could see it that way," Remilia says, staring deeply at the dregs of her tea cup. "I didn't know that you would come to me tonight, and at this exact moment."

The vampire pauses to pour herself more tea. When she looks up at him, her eyes are clear and determined.

"But I believed in this possibility, however unlikely it seemed," whispers Remilia.

"I-I see," he manages. He doesn't understand it, but her words are heavy. Somehow, he feels that the vampire is being uncharacteristically serious.

He takes another sip of his tea, and is pleasantly surprised. Its distinct flavor is unmistakable; this is Earl Grey tea. Somehow, he feels like this isn't a coincidence. In fact, there are several other events that can't possibly be attributed to random chance alone.

"Do you believe in Fate?" asks Remilia suddenly.

"What?"

"Do you believe that all events are pre-determined, and that there is no way to change events that are destined to occur?" she continues.

"..."

The vampire calmly replaces her cup on the table. Without warning, she stands up and slams her hand upon the table. He almost drops his tea in surprise. The floor rumbles slightly with the impact, and Grey suddenly becomes aware of her vampiric strength. He looks up at her in shock. The vampire's teeth glints in the moonlight as she smiles proudly.

"Let me tell you a secret, Grey," says Remilia.

"A-a secret?" he repeats uneasily.

"Fate doesn't exist," she whispers.

Grey says nothing in reply, suddenly aware of the power of this girl's will. Her eyes blaze a fiery red that threatens to burn anything and everything that dares stand in her way. Slowly, she takes a seat. After a few moments, she sips her tea contentedly, as if nothing happened. He manages to take a biscuit and munch on it absent-mindedly as he tries to calm himself down.

"At least, not in that way. Your presence here is proof of that," says Remilia. "I only wish that I realized this earlier."

He sees in her eyes a deep sorrow when she says those words. Full of regret, and sadness. But when she turns back to him, her eyes are full of determination.

"What did you discover during your investigation?" she asks, her tone completely businesslike.

...

Grey described everything that happened. He began his tale from the beginning, when he first arrived in the Voile Library, up to the events that led to his visit this evening. Almost everything, at least. When he got to the part about his unusual dreams, he simply said that he remembered doing some unforgivable things to the inhabitants of the Mansion.

Thankfully, the vampire did not ask for the details. In fact, she didn't seem surprised about any of the events. Even the youkai attacks and the incident at the clock tower failed to perturb her. Somehow, he had the feeling that everything he said only confirmed information that she already knew or suspected.

Upon finishing his story, Remilia only gave him a thoughtful nod. They sat together for a few minutes in silence. Finally, he could bear it no longer.

"What do you think we should do?" he asks politely.

For a moment, Remilia pauses. She examines her tea cup closely before she replies.

"We should have dinner," says the vampire with an enigmatic smile.

...

Dinner was mostly uneventful. Patchouli and Koakuma weren't present. Seems like they usually dine at the Voile Library. Remilia ate calmly as she complained about the laziness of the shrine maiden and the black and white witch. Those two were apparently in charge of resolving most of the incidents in Gensokyo. Sakuya stood behind her Mistress, serving her as was appropriate. There was only one thing odd about the scene.

Flandre was at her seat, chatting energetically with her elder sister. From bits and pieces of her dialogue, it seems that she discovered something interesting while walking around the basement, but Remilia simply shrugged it off.

"If they bother you, why don't you just destroy them?" says Remilia. What? She shouldn't encourage Flandre to destroy things so easily!

"Eh? You aren't listening," whines Flandre. "I said that I tried that already. They just keep coming back. Weird, smelly things."

"Well, as long as they don't come upstairs, then it's fine," replies Remilia. "I can count on you for that, can't I?"

"But it's a bother!" cries Flandre. "And they smell really really weird!"

Remilia dismisses her with a wave. For a moment, Flandre looks like she is about to throw a tantrum, but in the end she simply stays silent and finishes her food. Perhaps the older sister has some control over the younger one, despite their difference in power.

Nothing else unusual was discussed over dinner. After saying, "Good night," to Remilia and Sakuya, he decided to walk Flandre back to her room in the basement. After all, it was unusual that the little sister come upstairs on her own. And personally, he did find this girl pretty cute, in a strange and insane manner.

"You're a nice guy," says Flandre. "Well, g'night then."

As Grey heads back to his room, he wonders about what exactly could have bothered her. She seemed to be pretty agitated until Remilia calmed her down. Perhaps he can ask her about it at some point.

But that will have to wait for the morning. It has been a long, tiring day.

Grey stares longingly at his bed.

[ ] Explore the mansion.
[ ] Wander around aimlessly.
[ ] Go to sleep.
[ ] Custom

Loading User Commands:
[X] Explore the second floor. Perhaps you can find Remilia's room.

---

Grey pockets Patchouli's ribbon as he leaves the library. He has no reason to refuse the magician's little gift, after all. She didn't say anything to explain its significance, but he is sure that this item is important. He blushes slightly as he notes that the ribbon still to be a little bit warm in his hands. Somehow, he can picture Patchouli sitting down in front of a mirror, yawning silently as she shakes off her sleepiness, with Koakuma gently tying the ribbons in her hair as the little devil greets her a good morning.

Back outside, he pauses to think about where to go next. While tempting, he feels that he has spent more than enough time in the Voile Library. If there is anything he needed to know, Patchouli or Koakuma would have mentioned it already. It would be awkward to return to Patchouli right after he said that he was done, and Koakuma might need more time to calm down. In any case, he has learned enough from this place.

He could check the kitchen and dining room for a good chance to find Sakuya, but he doesn't really feel like repeating his culinary disaster in front of her and the other maids. He still remembers that moment when he first woke up in her bed. Looking back, he doesn't remember ever seeing her eyes full of gentleness and concern like that. She returned to her usual self soon afterward, though.

The little sister in the basement doesn't seem to be as dangerous as he first thought, and Flandre did help him out before (in a strange, unplanned way). However, the thought of disturbing her in any way causes him to shudder. Somehow, he feels that this girl is even more dangerous than the others because of her unpredictable behaviour. Sadly, even if she does some strange and reckless things, he somehow feels that the little sister still means well when she acts.

Meiling should be back at the front gate, since she is the Mansion's gatekeeper and guard. He hasn't had much opportunity to talk to her, but she seems to be a friendly enough person, for a youkai. In any case, her job is very important for the Mansion security, and he shouldn't bother her during this troublesome times. Perhaps he can spend a little more time chatting with her in the afternoons when this mess is all over.

"Hmm," he mutters aloud. Who should he visit next? And why does he feel that he forgot about something really important?

After a few moments of blinking stupidly, Grey finally remembers. He plants a palm on his face after realization sets in. How can he forget about someone so important to this situation?

Immediately, he sets off toward the staircase to the second floor, carrying the violin case in his left hand and the other things in his coat. He doesn't know exactly where it is, but he feels that it won't be difficult to find. Remilia's room would definitely stand out from any of the other rooms in the Mansion. For some reason, he feels it odd that hers is the only room that he hasn't seen or visited, both in his dreams and in the waking world.

From the very beginning, the Mistress of the Mansion has acted quite strangely. Just a few days ago, Remilia employed him as her butler. Yesterday, she instructed him to clean the armory and find himself a weapon. And today, she assigned him to investigate the cause of the recent incidents around the Mansion. While everything could most certainly be a coincidence, he most certainly doubts it.

"Remilia..." he whispers under his breath. That vampire girl knows a lot more than she says. She can manipulate Fate, after all (though how she does it, he has no idea). Did she plan everything from the start? What the hell is she trying to do?

Grey continues walking along the halls of the second floor, looking out carefully for any doors that stand out. After a few minutes of searching, he finds a large, ornate set of double doors at the end of one of the hallways. A strange insignia is engraved in silver upon them.

...

Before he has a chance to knock, he hears something from within.

"Good evening, Grey," says a voice from behind the door. "You may come in."

He opens the door and enters her chambers slowly. Remilia is sitting on a small chair beside a tea table. She takes a sip of her tea, her bat-like wings stretching slightly as if relaxing, before putting her cup down. There doesn't seem to be anyone else in the room. He bows before her politely, as is customary to his position.

"Have a seat," says the vampire. She gestures toward the only other chair beside the table. On it is a tray with biscuits and another cup of tea.

Grey sits down as instructed, taking the cup of tea reflexively. He notices that the cup is still very warm as he handles it. After taking a polite sip, he puts down his own cup as he turns to the vampire.

"Were you expecting me?" he asks carefully. He takes care not to put emotion into his words.

"Expecting? Perhaps you could look at it that way," she says as she looks enigmatically into her tea cup. "I didn't know that you would come to me tonight, and at this exact moment."

The vampire pauses as she turns to look up at him. Her eyes are clear and determined.

"But I believed that you could come," whispers Remilia.

What will you report?
[ ] Tell her everything you know.
[ ] Omit your first dream, where you did things to Sakuya.
[ ] Omit your second dream, where you did things to Koakuma.
[ ] Omit the part where you tell Patchouli that you must be the culprit.
[ ] Omit the details of the battle with the clockwork guardian.
[ ] Omit any mention of your own spell cards.
[ ] Omit the incident at the front gate.
[ ] Omit other events. (Specify)
[ ] Stay silent.

Who is the culprit?
[ ] Sakuya.
[ ] Patchouli.
[ ] Koakuma.
[ ] Flandre.
[ ] Meiling.
[ ] Remilia herself.
[ ] You don't know.
[ ] Stay silent.



~
[ ] "... You are mean."
[ ] "... Thank you?"
[ ] "... Hello?"
[ ] "... Hi?"
[ ] Custom

Loading User Commands:
[X] "If you'll have me."

---

"I am returning to the library," says Patchouli softly. "Some of the other references are there."

The magician closes her book with finality, as if she has made some sort of decision. Slowly, she looks up to meet his gaze in full. Her eyes, though wavering, seem to be full of resolve.

"Would you like to join me?" she asks.

"If you'll have me," replies Grey automatically.

"Alright," says Patchouli. She stands up and gives him a tiny nod, urging him to follow, before walking out of the room.

On the way back to her reading area, neither of them speaks. Patchouli walks between the bookshelves in silence, her every move careful and deliberate, as if deathly afraid of tripping on her feet and embarrassing herself. Staring at the back of her head, Grey follows the magician, making sure to slow his pace to match hers. During the walk, he observes that a number of colorful ribbons are intricately tied and arranged in her long lavender hair. Wouldn't it be a bother to maintain them every day?

After walking for some time, they reached Patchouli's reading desk. Without a word, the magician takes her seat and props her book open before her. Grey takes one last glance at her before turning toward the nearby shelves. He grabs the first book that he finds written in English, then he takes his own seat nearby.

After a few minutes, the awkward atmosphere that formed earlier vanishes like a bad memory. Patchouli regains her usual demeanor as she reads, calm and collected. Grey smiles at himself before turning to his own book.

"Fenrir and Odin," he reads. The cover of the book shows a surprisingly realistic picture of a warrior wielding a great spear against a montrously large wolf-beast creature. The tale is surprisingly vivid in its description, and soon, Grey finds himself engrossed in it.

Only after the afternoon sun begins flowing through one of the few windows does he finally put the book down. The rest of the story will have to wait. There are some things he needs to deal with. Grey leaves the book on the table after taking note of the last chapter he finished.

"I'll be heading off now," he tells the magician. "That was a good read."

Patchouli doesn't raise her head from her book. But as Grey stands up to leave, something surprising happens.

"Wait," says the magician. Holding the book in one hand, she pulls out something small from her dress. Without taking her eyes of her book, she speaks again.

"If it's fine with you," she whispers, holding out her hand to him.

"Eh?" he mutters dumbly as he accepts the item.

"Take this."

Grey blinks as he recognizes the tiny gift. It looks like a ribbon.

He has about an hour to kill before dinner.
[ ] Walk around the library a little bit. Maybe you can find Koakuma.
[ ] Check the kitchen and dining room. Sakuya might be there.
[ ] Go to Flandre's room in the basement. She might be awake now.
[ ] Visit the front gate. Meiling should be at her duty.
[ ] Explore the second floor. Perhaps you can find Remilia's room.
[ ] Return to your room and rest. A break is fine too.
[ ] Custom

"..."

He doesn't know how long he stayed there, trying to figure things out. In the end, he sighed to himself. There are simply too many pieces missing in this puzzle.

"I don't get any of it," whispers Grey to himself. He takes a glance at Patchouli, who seems to be ignoring him as was her custom.

He blinks dumbly. It must be his imagination, but it seems like she is stuck on the same page without progress. However, as evidence that she hasn't fallen asleep, her cheeks are slightly pink as she takes notice of his gaze. Deliberately, he fixes his eyes on her to observe further.

Patchouli continues to stare at her book, though she clearly isn't reading a single word. She gasps silently with her lips slightly apart as he watches. Slowly, her chest's subtle heaving rhythm becomes visible. The faint blush upon her cheeks grows delicate red.

Suddenly, her eyes turn to his, and they widen slightly before looking back into the book. Grey turns away, as if seeing something he shouldn't stare at. An awkward silence falls between them for several minutes, each engrossed in their own thoughts.

"I am returning to the library," says Patchouli finally. "Some of the other references are there."

She closes her book and looks straight at Grey.

"Would you like to join me?"

[ ] Custom

Loading User Commands:
[X] Stay with Patchouli a little bit longer. There is no hurry to leave.

---

"You should be completely recovered," says Patchouli. "You can leave, if you like."

Grey pauses before answering.

"Mind if I stay a little bit longer?" asks Grey. "I'd like to collect my thoughts for a bit."

"Go ahead," she replies. The magician doesn't make any other visible reaction. She turns her full attention to her book, with her eyes moving from side to side. She flips a page in an almost mechanical manner as he watches.

Grey shakes his head from the oddly hypnotic movements and shifts his gaze to the walls. Slowly, he starts to recall the different things he did today. Somehow, he feels that there may be something he missed.

He woke up with a start after that nightmare involving Patchouli and Koakuma. After calming down, he immediately headed to the Voile Library to check on the little devil. Thankfully, she was alright. He felt so relieved that, before he realized it, he had embraced the girl tightly in his arms. However, Koakuma pushed him away in fear. Perhaps he creeped her out, grabbing her without warning like that.

After waiting for her to calm down, they managed to meet up with Patchouli. At his invitation, she decided to join for breakfast. While Koakuma went off to fetch off the maids to bring some books, the magician handed him a few blank spell cards. They turned out to be pretty useful, Grey notes.

During breakfast, he decided to talk about the youkai attacks and the mansion defenses. A brief argument broke out between Sakuya and Patchouli, and Remilia unexpectedly asked him to investigate the incidents. After the meal, he spoke privately to the pink and purple wizard, who suspected that there may be a traitor in the mansion.

Upon hearing her words, Grey told her that he must be the prime suspect, considering the circumstances and the odd dreams that he had. To his surprise, the magician, rather than punishing him, cast a spell to protect him before passing out. He managed to carry the girl back to the library, where he met and spoke with Koakuma. She told him that Patchouli would recover after some rest. Before he left the library, something odd happened. Koakuma gave him a tight hug, and whispered that things will be alright.

Grey decided to investigate the clock tower, since he felt that something important was there. Inside, he found several interesting and unusual things, but before he could examine things closely, he found himself attacked by a giant clockwork spider. After barely escaping, he met up with Sakuya. He told her everything, explaining that he knew of this place through his dreams.

Somehow, he convinced Sakuya that there was something in the tower that they need to find. Despite her powers not working in this place, the chief maid agreed to accompany him. Soon enough, they found a place that looked suspicious, but it was guarded by a huge clockwork spider guardian.

With Sakuya keeping the creature busy, Grey managed to sneak past it to enter the chamber it was protecting. Inside, he discovered a set of modern light-emitting devices forming an intricate sealing circle. After rearranging the devices, the light changed color, and somehow, he felt that some heavy burden was lifted. However, the chief maid was fighting a losing battle outside.

He managed to save Sakuya from being crushed by doing something completely stupid, and thinking back, he would be dead by now if it weren't for Patchouli's barrier. Barely alive, he felt some strange power awaken within him, which he used to masterfully defeat the clockwork guardian and rescue the chief maid. He passed out afterward, of course.

Grey managed to have a short conversation with Sakuya before focusing on his own recovery. By the time he woke up, he found himself alone in her room. Waking up hungry, he made himself a disaster of a meal before heading to the Voile Library. There, he managed to talk to both Patchouli and Koakuma about a few more things. Afterward, the little devil decided to accompany him during the investigation.

Somehow, his mind grows foggy at this point, as if there was something that changed. In any case, they decided to head outside. At the garden, they had a nice conversation with one of the maids, though they didn't learn much. But when they got to the front gate, something started messing with his head.

Grey doesn't remember clearly, but he thinks that he almost shot Koakuma and Meiling. Thankfully, he passed out before anything happened. The next thing he remembers is waking up with the pink and purple wizard watching over him. After a little more rest, he found himself still here with her, collecting his own thoughts in silence.

Loading User Commands:
[X] Observe her a little bit longer. Wait until she notices that you are awake.
[X] Greet her normally. Thank her for watching over you.

---

Carefully, Grey opens his eyes. He feels well rested, if not a little bit disoriented. Slowly, he surveys the room. He blinks in surprise when he notices that Patchouli is still holding his hand. She hasn't left his side.

"..."

How long was he asleep?

Grey turns his head slightly to get a better look at the pink and purple wizard. She looks relaxed, and her face is calm as usual. Holding her book with one hand, she continues reading. Her eyes move steadily from left to right as she reads each line. This movement is strangely hypnotic, and before he realizes it, he starts following her beautiful violet eyes move from side to side. It takes him several minutes to finally turn his attention to something else.

Checking his left hand, he can feel the magician's tender grip. Her soft hand doesn't move much, but every few seconds, he can feel her stroke him slightly with her tiny index finger. Occasionally, her hand would shift its position, as if trying to find a way to hold him a little bit tighter. Her grip would loosen slightly each time she clumsily flips a page of her book.

He watches Patchouli as she flips the page of her book using only her other hand. It takes his brain almost a full minute to realize something strange. She doesn't let him go even if she has to turn to the next page. What an odd thing to do.

Suddenly, Patchouli turns to him. Her eyes meet his instantly. For a moment, Grey feels like he saw them widen slightly upon noticing him, but it must have been his imagination. She considers him thoughtfully with a calm, calculating gaze.

"Are you feeling better?" she asks.

Grey nods as he sits himself up. Reluctantly, he lets go of the girl's hand. While there is still an odd ringing in his ears, he feels much better now.

"I feel much better now," he says. "Thanks a lot for the help. I can probably walk around in a few minutes."

"That is good to hear," Patchouli replies. She holds her book with both hands and returns to her reading.

Grey takes a few moments to reorient himself to his surroundings.

"Patchouli, how long was I unconscious?" he asks. "And where exactly is this place?"

"Two hours and thirty-two minutes," she says succintly. "This is a spare bedroom in the Voile Library."

There are bedrooms in the Voile Library? Patchouli and Koakuma probably sleep somewhere nearby, then. And speaking of the devil...

"How's Koakuma?" he asks.

Patchouli pauses before answering.

"She is finishing a few errands in the library," she says. "I told her that you were alright, but that didn't stop her from taking a peek to check on you. I think she came in three or four times."

"I-I see," he mutters. Koakuma must have been worried about him.

For a moment, he stays silent, distracted by his own thoughts.

"You should be completely recovered," says Patchouli. "You can leave, if you like."

Somehow, Grey feels that she said that last part a little bit sadly.

[ ] Stay with Patchouli a little bit longer. There is no hurry to leave.
[ ] See if you can find Koakuma. She might be worried.
[ ] Hang around the library. Perhaps you can find a good book.
[ ] Explore the library alone. The investigation must continue.
[ ] Excuse yourself and leave the library. You need to clear your head.
[ ] Custom

Loading User Commands:
[X] Tell her what you remember from the incident at the gate.
[X] Ask if you can hold her hand.

---

The magician looks up from her book. Her deep violet eyes are clear and focused.

"I would like to monitor your condition until you are able to walk around on your own," she says. "If there is anything I should know, don't hesitate to tell me."

Grey raises his head as he tries to clear his head.

"Earlier, Koakuma and I went to the gate to talk to Meiling. I..." says Grey. He cringes in pain as his head starts pounding. Patchouli turns back to her book, but her eyes aren't moving. She seems to be listening intently.

"I-I think we were trying to decide on something when my head began to hurt. I started to lose my balance, and my vision was blurring. I think I started to hear strange things," he continues. The pain is intensifying, but somehow he is able to fight it.

"I got really confused. It's difficult to describe, but I think I felt like I was in danger. I think I drew my gun at Koakuma and Meiling," he says. "My head felt like it was splitting. I think I managed to drop the weapon before passing out."

Patchouli doesn't say anything. Her eyes are still on her book, but she is clearly not reading a single sentence. She seems to be in deep thought.

"Are you sure that no one was hurt?" Grey asks. "I don't.. remember much. I'll never forgive myself if something -"

"Everyone is alright," interrupts Patchouli. "Just calm down and rest."

She looks at Grey thoughtfully. Somehow, her eyes feel different. It is as if some renewed determination has been sparked within this pink and purple book lover. Such an expression doesn't really fit the anemic wizard, but somehow, he can feel some unexplainable strength emanating from this girl.

"I think I am starting to understand," says Patchouli. "I suppose that I will have to act soon."

"Huh? What did you understand?" replies Grey. "None of this makes sense to me."

The wizard turns back to her book and begins to read again.

"Don't worry about it. Just focus on resting. You will be safe here." she says.

Grey sighs as he lies his head back on the bed. His head is spinning wildly. If he tries to hard, he will probably just injure himself. He should just focus on resting.

"..."

But he can't sleep, for some reason. Too many thoughts are passing through his mind. He takes a glance at Patchouli for a moment.

"Can I hold your hand for a bit?" he asks. He blinks stupidly as he realizes what he just said. Did he just think aloud? Patchouli doesn't reply, but her eyes have froze.

"I just want to make sure that you are real to me," he continues. Somehow, this seems to be the best way he can describe how he feels.

Patchouli doesn't say a word. After a few minutes, Grey simply lies back on his head and tries to get some rest. It was a foolish request anyway. This is inappropriate, to say the least. What was he -

Without warning, he feels something warm grab on to his left hand. He takes a glance at Patchouli. She simply continues reading, holding the book with one hand. Her face is calm and neutral. However, he can feel her gently placing her small soft hand over his own. She strokes the back of his hand with her tiny fingers, as if to reassure him. For some reason, his mind becomes focused only on the sensation of her fingers rubbing upon him.

Slowly, he finds himself calming down. Grey closes his eyes. He starts falling into a deep, dreamless sleep. The last thing he remembers is Patchouli flipping the page of her book.

...

Carefully, he opens his eyes. He feels well rested, if not a little bit disoriented.

He surveys the room slowly, barely turning his head. The first thing he notices is that Patchouli is still holding his hand. She hasn't left his side.

"..."

How long was he asleep?

[ ] Greet her normally. Thank her for watching over you.
[ ] Wake up with a start. Let go of her hand immediately.
[ ] Observe her a little bit longer. Wait until she notices that you are awake.
[ ] Pretend to roll around in your sleep. Pull her over you "accidentally".
[ ] Custom

Grey opens his eyes. He stares blankly at the ceiling for several minutes as he tries to clear his mind. Slowly, he turns his head from side to side. He seems to be in a bedroom. But this isn't his room. The place is sparsely decorated, and it has no windows. He hasn't been in this place before.

"Can you hear me?" asks a voice.

He turns toward the voice. It takes a few moments for him to recognize the pink and purple wizard.

"Patchouli?" he asks uneasily.

"Good. It must be taking effect now. You should be fine in a couple more hours." she says.

"Huh?" he says.

"Koakuma and the gate guard brought you in here a few minutes ago. They said that you passed out by the front gate." she replies. "This is very odd, though. Aside from a little exhaustion, there is no sign that your body has been damaged or tampered with. Very strange."

"Where.. where is Koakuma?" he asks. Is she alright?

"I told her to take care of some other duties for the time being," says the magician. "She was very... emotional when you were brought in. I think she needs some time to calm down."

"I-I see," he says. No one was hurt. He sighs in relief.

"..."

Grey blinks. Patchouli is sitting at the end of the bed, complete with a book in her hands. There aren't any chairs in the room, it seems. She doesn't seem to be leaving soon. Is she going to stay here with him?

As if to answer his query, the magician looks up from her book.

"I would like to monitor your condition until you are able to walk around on your own," she says. "Tell me if you feel anything strange. If there is anything I should know, please tell me."

Grey's head is too muddled up to explain anything.
[ ] Lie down and get some rest.
[ ] Cough violently.
[ ] Look for your weapons.
[ ] Ask if you can hold her hand.
[ ] Tell her that she doesn't need to stay here.
[ ] Try to force yourself up.
[ ] Custom

Loading User Commands:
[X] Drop the gun.

---

Grey raises the gun toward them. They aren't human, and they are planning to kill him. Even if it is futile, he won't go down without a fight. This weapon can harm youkai. The past few days proved that. At the very least, he can wound them before he dies.

"Is he going to fight back? How convenient," says Koakuma. She sneers at him as she licks her lips.

"I'm not very hungry right now. He's all yours," comments the gate guard. How is she talking in her sleep?

Grey tightens his grip on the pistol. He moves his other hand slowly towards his coat, feeling for his spell cards.

"I'm not going to die here!" he cries out loudly. "Not without a fight!"

Koakuma slowly sidesteps toward Meiling, not turning her back on him. She gently shakes the gate guard awake. Meiling wakes up with a start, muttering something he can't understand. The little devil whispers something to her, then points to him. The gate guard gasps audibly when she notices that his weapon is drawn.

What? Why can't he hear their words? He can see their mouths moving, but he can't hear their voices. Something.. something is wrong.

".. elp me.. ill him" says Koakuma. Her voice sounds so distant.

"..lright.. fight back.. hurt him badly," replies Meiling.

The two nod at each other before turning back to Grey. Slowly, they start stepping towards him.

"G-get away from me!" he cries out. He fires the pistol a couple of times in the air as a warning.

".. wrong? ..hurt you! ..me" cries Koakuma. He can see her face clearly now. She looks really worried, and her eyes are damp.

"..give me.. gun.. hurt anyone," says Meiling. She speaks in a calm, soothing manner as she approaches.

They are coming to kill him. But he won't go down alone. He quickly aims the pistol at Koakuma's head, since she is a bit closer. From this distance, even she will have difficulty avoiding the shot. His finger shudders as it strokes the trigger of his weapon.

Koakuma shouts something at him, but he can't hear her voice. Slowly, tears start gushing out of her eyes. Why would she do that? This isn't right. This isn't how someone with murder in their heart would act.

"I'm really glad that you let me come with you," she said. He recalls those words clearly, as if she was repeating them to him.

No, Koakuma isn't going to hurt him. She and the other inhabitants of this mansion may be strange, but they are not bloodthirsty murderers. On the other hand, he just drew his weapon and pointed it at them. He was going to kill them.

For what?

Grey immediately drops the gun. He watches it hit the ground silently. His senses are starting to dull. He can't hear anything now, though he can see Koakuma and Meiling crying out to him. But why can't he recognize their faces? His vision is blurring too. What is happening?

He opens his mouth to speak, but he can't hear his own words. Finally, he collapses on the ground. He doesn't get up.

The last thing he sees are two blurs rushing towards his fallen form.

Loading User Commands:
[X] Walk toward the front gate. Where is the gate guard anyway?

---

"... what?" says Grey.

Meiling is leaning against the wall, napping peacefully. He knows that the gatekeeper takes naps, but he can't help but feel surprised. The mansion has been under attack for two days straight now. How can this girl fall asleep at a time like this?

"She's asleep," says Koakuma. "Should we wake her up?"

Grey pauses to think.
[ ] Wake her up. She should be guarding the gate.
[ ] Leave her be. She looks peaceful like this.
[ ] Wait patiently. Maybe you can -

"Argh!" he cries aloud. Grey crumples down on his knees.

"W-what happened?" Koakuma says as she tries to help him up. "A-are you feeling alright?"

Grey looks up at the bat-winged girl. His head is pounding, and his vision is beginning to blur. He can barely keep balanced.

"We should head back inside," she says. Her voice sounds distant, for some reason.

That sounds like a great idea. He needs to sit down. This can't be an ordinary headache. Something is wrong, and for some reason, this feels familiar.

"..kill you." she whispers.

Huh? That can't be right. Grey looks up at the little devil. She looks worried as she helps support him. He must be imagining things. But before he can think about it further, another voice interrupts him. He turns to the sleeping gate guard. Is she talking in her sleep?

"..Sakuya's orders," she whispers. "Kill Grey and make it look like an accident."

What?

"No! There isn't enough time!" cries Koakuma.

She tightens her grip on his arm, a malevolent smile upon her face.

"We should kill him now," she says.

Grey immediately pushes Koakuma away and draws his pistol. He doesn't understand what is happening, but he isn't going to die here. He isn't going to die like this.

"Not like this," he says. "Not like this!"

He raises the gun toward the two. Meiling seems completely oblivious as she continues to nap. Koakuma gasps and takes a couple of steps back. She opens her mouth, perhaps to talk some sense into him, but her words only provoke him further.

"It'll be better if he fights back. We can just claim self-defense." the little devil says.

"You can have him. I'm not hungry," comments the gate guard. How is she talking in her sleep?

Not enough time to think.

[ ] Shoot Meiling.
[ ] Shoot Koakuma.
[ ] Shoot them both.
[ ] Shoot your foot.
[ ] Drop the gun.
[ ] Run back inside.
[ ] Run away from the Mansion.
[ ] Custom

Loading User Commands:
[X] Head to the garden. The maids are working outside.

---

Grey peeks out one of the few windows in the hallway. The azure sky is dotted with wispy clouds, and the early afternoon sun feels pleasantly warm. No wonder the maids are working outside. The weather is quite nice.

"Why don't we step outside for a bit?" says Grey. "The garden looks lovely today."

"E-eh? But shouldn't we be investigating?" inquires Koakuma.

"Exactly. Most of the fairy maids are working at the garden. Maybe we can ask them a few questions." he replies.

"Ah! That sounds good," the bat-winged girl says. "One of them may have noticed something important."

"Shall we go?" he asks. Koakuma nods in approval.

After making their way through a few more hallways (they didn't encounter anything unusual), they found themselves outside at the garden. To the left, he can see the front gate at a distance. The gatekeeper should be around the area, but he doesn't see her. Perhaps she is taking a break of some sort (but wouldn't that be slacking off...)? Far to the right, he can see a well maintained hedge maze. He isn't really surprised, since this sort of thing fits the already extravagant mansion pretty well. It does look like a good place to have a walk, though.

In front of him, he can see several fairy maids hanging the laundry and dusting some mattresses. Grey motions for the little devil to follow her toward the staff. Upon seeing them approaching, several of the maids smile and wave. A few even give a bow and a curtsy. One of the fairy maids walks toward them.

"Good afternoon," she says. "How may we help you?"

"Sorry to bother your work," says Grey. "After seeing how nice the weather was, we couldn't help but step outside for a bit."

The fairy maid nods slowly. At first glance, her uniform seems to be the same as the others, but after a few moments, he notices that there is a unique insignia on her dress. Perhaps she has a higher rank than the others.

"When the weather is good, we prioritize hanging the laundry and other similar tasks," she says. "Lady Sakuya is very practical when she gives instructions."

"Speaking of Sakuya, have any of you seen her around recently?" he asks.

The fairy maid blinks at him curiously.

"We haven't seen her since this morning," says the maid. "But she always appears at the appropriate times to give new instructions. Perhaps she will arrive after we are finished here."

"I see," says Grey as he thinks. "In any case, have any of you noticed anything unusual happening this morning? Anything at all?"

She pauses to think.

"Sorry, nothing comes to mind," she says. "You can ask the others, if you like."

"Alright, thanks." he replies.

The fairy maid gives him a bow before turning around to return to her work.

"Wait," says Grey. This one seems a lot more reliable than the other fairy maids. "May I ask for your name?"

"E-excuse me?" replies the maid in surprise.

"That is, if you would care to give it," he says.

"O-of course, Master Grey," she returns. She strokes the strands of her short blonde hair nervously. The way she wears her hair is familiar somehow, especially how one side is longer than the other. Even without a hair ornament, it looks quite attractive, if not a bit boyish.

"My name is Elena," she says with a bow. "It is my pleasure to serve you."

Grey watches as Elena returns to the others. A few of the fairy maids run up to her and chatter excitedly, but she seems to be answering them calmly. Perhaps she is the type to take her work more seriously than most.

A slight tug at his sleeve grabs his attention. Koakuma looks at him thoughtfully, as if asking him where they should go next.

[ ] Head toward the hedge maze. Take a walk with Koakuma.
[ ] Take some time to question the other maids. Perhaps one of them noticed something unusual.
[ ] Walk toward the front gate. Where is the gate guard anyway?
[ ] Go back inside and wander around. Are any of the vampires awake?
[ ] Check the opposite side of the mansion. There may be a few places of interest at the back.
[ ] Custom

Loading User Commands:
[X] The Investigation Continues

---

"Are you feeling alright?" asks Koakuma.

Grey turns his head toward the little devil. His mind is filled with confusion. Somehow, he feels that something is off. Did something change?

"Ah! Don't mind it. I'm just fine," says Grey.

Koakuma cocks her head to one side.

"Are you sure you are alright? You look a bit pale." she says.

"Just a headache, I think. Er.. what were we doing again?" he asks.

"Eh? You just told me a moment ago," says Koakuma. "You said that you need to pick up a few things from your room."

"Hmm.. is that so?" mumbles Grey. He is beginning to remember the details now. Koakuma is accompanying him as he continues to investigate the incidents. Just a while ago, he told her that he needs to return to his room for a few minutes.

"Anyway, we should get going," says Koakuma.

She grabs hold of his hand and squeezes it a little bit.

"I'm really glad that you let me come with you," she says. Her smiles kindly at him as they start walking along the hallways.

...

There were several different things in his room, but most of the items seemed like junk. He only took a few things. He decided to take the Stradivarius violin and its case. For some reason, he feels that this will be useful somehow. He also takes some fresh ammo for his pistol, making sure that he has two spare clips. This should be more than enough for any unexpected encounters.

"Are you ready now?" Koakuma asks.

"Yes, I think this will do," he replies.

This time, he won't be caught offguard.

"Huh?" says Grey aloud.

Koakuma looks back at him curiously.

"Is something wrong?" she asks. He really feels that something is weird about this, but he doesn't need to worry her any further.

"Forget it," he says. "Must be my imagination."

"Is that so?" says Koakuma. "Anyway, you still haven't told me where we are going next?"

"I haven't? Hmm.."

Grey pauses to think.

[ ] Check out the front gate. The gatekeeper shouldn't be too busy.
[ ] Go to Flandre's room. She should be asleep at this time, but..
[ ] Explore the second floor. Maybe you can find Remilia's room (she's probably asleep though..).
[ ] Return to the Voile Library. Patchouli should still be there.
[ ] Head to the garden. The maids are working outside.
[ ] Wander around aimlessly. The mansion is huge.
[ ] Search for the lower library chamber. There may be something there.
[ ] Search for another way down the basement. There may be something there.
[ ] Custom

Optional:
[ ] Tell Koakuma that she should stay with Patchouli.
[ ] Tell Koakuma that you don't need her help.

A bright light. He was chasing a bright light. It was so beautiful and pleasant. It reminded him of home. A home that he can't remember. A home that he never had. A home that he will never see. But it was there, right in front of him. He raised his arms to take it into his hands.

Then it vanished. Suddenly, his surroundings changed.

At first, he could see only movement and color. A thousand blurs swirling continuously in a miasma of color. He could feel his head pound as his brain tries to process the images. A few of them seem familiar, while most are completely foreign. Names. Places. Dates. It all hurts his head. He tries to close his eyes, but he can't, for some reason. He struggles until his mind and soul almost breaks in the confusion.

Then something frees him from the pain. Something pulls him from the chaos. And everything begins to grow clearer.

"Can you hear me?" asks a distant voice.

He nods slightly as he waits for his vision to recover. He seems to be standing in some kind of garden. The green bushes and trees calm his eyes. However, when he looks up, he sees, in the place of the sky, a swirling sea of blood and darkness. He shudders slightly as he recognizes humanoid shapes reaching out at him before being swallowed up by the torrent of crimson.

"Can you hear me?" repeats the voice. "I know that your existence should be stable by now."

He turns to the voice. He stares blankly at the person, dressed in a red and pink dress full of frills. He recognizes her immediately, of course. Even without those bat-like wings attached to her back, her deep red eyes and her light blue hair are unmistakeable.

"Remilia?" he asks uncertainly.

The vampire smiles mysteriously at his response.

"Remilia? I suppose that you can call me by that name for now," she says. "Though it doesn't really matter."

"I don't understand," he says.

"You don't need to understand," she says bluntly. "It's already over. You failed."

"I guess I screwed up then," he returns. "So is this hell?"

The vampire raises an eyebrow.

"It can be, if you like," she says. "But what you like doesn't matter either way. You are going back."

"What?" he asks. This is really getting confusing.

"I don't know how many more times I can do this, so get it right this time," she says sternly.

"Get what right?" he asks.

"It doesn't matter," she says, pouting. "You won't remember any of this when you return, so answering your question is completely pointless."

"Huh?" he says.

"Anyway, this is the best chance we all have," she says. "The other one opened the way for this possibility."

Something glimmers in her eyes as she says the word "other".

"Don't waste it," she continues.

A moment passes in silence as she waits for his answer. He doesn't understand, but..

"I will do my best," he says.

The vampire nods at him approvingly.

"Be sure to say 'hi' to the other me when you get back," she adds.

"But how am I supposed to do that if I don't remember any part of this?" he argues.

The vampire stamps her foot on the ground and puts her hands on her waist.

"Just do it anyway!" she pouts. "I won't forgive you if you act mean to me!"

"What?" he says blankly.

"Forget it," she says, sighing. "It's pointless to explain. Anyway, I'm sending you back now, so get ready."

He gives her one final shrug. He still doesn't know what's going on.

[ ] The Investigation Continues
[ ] Entering the Lower Library Chamber
[ ] An Unscheduled Concert

Loading User Commands:
[X] Refuse to accept this madness. "Command Sign, 「Master's Voice」"

---

"G-Grey?" cries Koakuma uneasily. "W-what's going on?"

The bat-winged girl looks up at him, her eyes overflowing with the beautiful color of Scarlet. He knows that she isn't perfect. Her body, mind and soul have not embraced the Scarlet completely. However, he can wait no longer. Her long, crimson hair. Her innocent, kind face. Her deep, clear eyes. Her perfect smooth skin. Her wonderful soft lips. Her everything.

He must. He must have her. He must have her now!

Grey stops playing his instrument. Koakuma pants wearily as she starts to recover. He looks at her thoughtfully for one fleeting moment. She looks up at him, perhaps hoping for an explanation. For a moment, he considers how cute the little devil looks right now, kneeling down before him. Then, he pulls out a familiar spell card from his coat.

"Command Sign, 「Master's Voice」" he says.

Upon declaring the card, his senses become focused and clear. There is only one target, and she is not resisting. He will have her.

"Stand up, Koakuma," he says sternly.

The little devil girl shudders for a few moments before standing herself up from the floor. Her eyes widen as she realizes that her body isn't listening to her. But that doesn't matter now. Koakuma belongs to him.

"W-what's happening?" cries Koakuma.

"Come to me," says Grey, ignoring her question.

Koakuma takes a few clumsy steps forward, as if hesitating. Is she trying to resist? She seems to be blushing furiously as she finds herself only inches away from his face. Perhaps she is feeling shy? But she doesn't seem completely against it. The girl looks so attractive when she is confused by her own feelings.

"Grey," she whispers. "What are you doing?"

He looks deeply into her eyes, giving her a kind smile.

"I know you want this," he says. "You want to be mine."

"W-what? N-no!" she cries. "I mean y-yes! I mean.."

"You don't hate me, do you?" he asks.

Koakuma looks away from him.

"I-I don't dislike you," she whispers.

Then he is simply making manifest their own destiny. They are meant to be together, he and her. Why hesitate? Why question? His power is enough to make both their dreams a reality.

"Then close your eyes," says Grey.

Koakuma closes them slowly. That wasn't a question, of course. He cannot wait for her answer. He does not need her answer. Her smell. Her taste. He must have everything, even if he is to plunder her.

Grey pushes himself onto the girl, his lips hungrily clasping against hers. The taste alone of her soft red lips fills him with excitement. So smooth and soft, nothing in his memory can compare to the sensation. He greedily grabs the little devil through her dress, feeling her delicate curves. Pushing his tongue hard against her, he forces her lips open, entering her cavity.

She does not resist. She does not struggle. She surrenders to his will completely.

He can't wait any more. He pushes her down on the ground and continues to grope her sensitive parts. Running his right hand up her hips, he feels her shiver slightly to his touch. He slowly begins massaging her chest, enjoying her warm softness. He pulls his head away from her lips and begins licking and sucking against her neck. She keeps her head turned away, but as he continues to stimulate her, soft moans begin to escape from her lips. A subtle dampness starts forming between her legs.

He raises his right hand away from her precious place and begins to fondle both her breasts. She moans audibly as her body continues to get stimulated. The sound of her voice excites him even more. He can't wait a second longer. He doesn't care about anything else. He must plunder and conquer her now.

Without warning, he rips the top of her dress open, exposing a dazzling sight before his eyes. The shape, the proportion, and the size - it is simply perfect. Her skin, and the delicate contour of her breasts excite him even more. Slowly, he moves one of his hands to rub against them. He almost loses control as his senses are bombarded with the sensation as he touches her without reserve. He squeezes her softly, as if carefully tasting her wonderful flavor.

Then he looks up at her face.

It is full of tears as Koakuma sobs silently. Transparent and clear, the droplets roll along her face as he watches. He gazes at her, confused and conflicted. He doesn't understand. Why is she crying?

"She doesn't want this," whispers some part of him.

He shakes his head. Why wouldn't she be pleased? She loves him, and he loves her. They are destined be together. Why does she weep?

"She wants you, but not like this," whispers himself. "She did not fall in love with a rapist."

Rapist? But he isn't. He only wanted-

"To plunder her," whispers himself. "Against her will."

...

"She trusted you. But you betrayed that trust. You have become a..."

Don't say it. Don't say it!

"Monster," whispers himself.

Grey pulls away from her. He feels confused. If this is what he did, if this is what he is, then that means..

"The spell card trance is almost up," whispers himself. "You will lose control after it is finished. Control of her, and control of yourself."

No. No! NO! This madness, he will not accept it! He will not betray his friends. He will not betray Koakuma.

He will not accept this fate.

Grey smiles. He understands. He understands what he needs to do. And he will not need to wait for the end of the trance.

He stands up and turns to Koakuma.

"Face your Master, Koakuma, and hear me," he says sternly.

The bat-winged girl stands herself up. Her eyes widen slightly. Her face filled with tears and confusion.

"This is my command," he says.

"G-Grey?" whispers Koakuma.

"Kill me," he whispers.

Koakuma's eyes widen in horror, but her body responds to the command immediately. Before he hears her response, something drives through his chest. He can hear his flesh and bone being ripped apart. A second cleave to his side opens up his intestines. He hears them fall to the ground with a sickening thud. His eyes darken as the pain grows too excruciating to bear.

Suddenly, the world becomes slow. Time almost stands still as he feels himself fall down on his back. His body vibrates as he hits the ground, but he doesn't notice the pain. He knows it must be there, but his brain has blocked it all off. His body must know that he is dying. He looks up at the chamber ceiling. Why is it so bright, all of a sudden?

Someone blocks the brightness. Someone is leaning over him and shaking him. He can feel her tears falling against his cheeks. He smiles as he realizes it. He doesn't deserve such pity.

"Grey!" cries Koakuma. "Open your eyes! You can't die like this! I still..."

He looks up at her and smiles. Such a kind girl, Koakuma. He uses the last of his strength to cry out to her, but it only comes out a whisper.

"Thank.. you..." says he.

And with that final word, the butler's part in this story ends.

BAD END

---

Please wait warmly. Scarlet is preparing.

Loading User Commands:
[X] Take the violin into your hands. She is your inspiration.

---

There is not enough Scarlet. But that doesn't matter now. He will rectify this flaw with his own hands. Koakuma doesn't deserve anything less.

Grey takes the Stradivarius violin from its case. He puts it in his hands and draws its bow. Soon, the chamber echoes with his eerie music. He has never heard this piece before, but he continues playing as if it was the most natural thing to do.

[~You are strong indeed, and you have learned quickly. But to call upon this kind of power...]

This music, too, is full of incredible power, but it isn't coming from the spirit of the instrument. The only spirit that leads his hands is his own. The voice that speaks in riddles is only a spectator to this performance. This is his music. This is his song. This is his everything.

[~However, I will not stop you, if you choose this path...]

Koakuma gasps audibly as he continues to play. The macabre melody fills the room. The ground trembles as his presence becomes more real. The walls resonate with his passion, as if surrendering to his very will.

[~I sense that you still wish to bring good into this world and I cannot betray that...]

He opens his eyes, and behold! The room has been bathed in Scarlet, though this is not just a color any longer. This place ripples with his very spirit! He can feel his influence spreading into every corner. With such power, even this vast magical world can be brought under his control.

[~No matter how twisted the method...]

There is still one thing left that hasn't embraced the Scarlet.

Koakuma has crumpled down on her knees as she struggles against the music. Her face is full of confusion. She doesn't understand this power. But that doesn't matter now. It is only a matter of time until -

Grey almost misses a stroke when he sees it. The little devil seems to be weeping tears. But something is strange. It is only after he finishes the next portion of his song that he realizes it. Her tears are the color of Scarlet. Is she crying blood?

For some strange reason, this doesn't disturb him at all. In fact, it only makes him thirst for more as he continues playing. With this Scarlet upon her face, she is becoming far more beautiful than he had ever imagined. This is better than anything he has ever dreamed. Grey must have her.

Grey? No, that is only a name given to him by the spoiled vampire brat. He has another name. One that even the Heavens dare not call upon.

This time, he won't be stopped.

This world is his birthright.

What?

Grey cannot stop until his thirst is satiated.
[ ] This world calls for your arrival. "Legacy, 「Seal of the Scarlet Lord」"
[ ] She is your faithful servant. "Command Sign, 「Master's Voice」"
[ ] Refuse to accept this madness. "Command Sign, 「Master's Voice」"
[ ] No need for spells. Force yourself upon her!
[ ] Steal a kiss from the girl. This is enough.
[ ] Custom

He looks back at Koakuma. She seems to be speaking, but he can't hear anything. Everything seems so surreal, like this is all a dream. He raises one of his hands, but he can only make out a blur. It feels strange and foreign. He seems to be holding something, but he can't make out what it is.

"..lright?"

What? He looks up at Koakuma. She looks a bit worried. Somehow, that expression doesn't fit her. A cheerful Koakuma is best. Maybe he can put a smile on that face, somehow.

"Koakuma?" he says uneasily. His own voice sounds so distant.

"Grey? Are you feeling alright?" says the little devil. Her voice seems even further away.

He nods at the bat-winged girl. He feels perfectly fine. In fact, he hasn't felt this good in ages. His mind and body are filled with unexplainable energy. He doesn't understand why, but he feels like he can take over the world, if he wants to.

Looking closer at Koakuma, she looks really beautiful right now. He can't explain it. Her long reddish hair perfectly frames her flawless, porcelain skin. He finds himself entranced by her deep, kind eyes. The wings on her head are more dazzling than any hair ornament, he barely stops himself from stroking them. This girl is wonderful. Why hasn't he noticed this before?

Koakuma opens her mouth again, but he can't hear a word. He can't help but smile and nod at her questions. He can't understand her words, but her every movement is simply hypnotizing.

But something is missing. The more he looks at her, the more he realizes it. She is almost perfect. But this isn't enough. The color is off. Her color off.

There is not enough Scarlet.

Grey pulls out a spell card.
[ ] Have her embrace perfection. Paint her completely Scarlet.
[ ] She is your servant. Bind her to your will.
[ ] Pull out your pistol. This calls for a celebration and a festival.
[ ] Take the violin into your hands. She is your inspiration.