Selling (Somewhat) Magic Goods in Arknights

[Paracsus]

Good day, my dear readers. Apologies for the lack of updates as of late. I'm just busy with irl stuff at the moment, and the rainy seasons in my country aren't making things easier.

Anyway, I've resolved myself to make 2 to 4 chapters a month guaranteed as I've talked with a few other fellow writers as I've been wanting to crank out content for a while. I'll try to release the chapter within the next week, so wish me luck.

Thank you for staying if you have, and I fare thee well if you don't.

 

[Paracsus]

Hello everyone. Once again, I apologize for the delay, and I have a confession to make.

I might not be able to make a chapter this month. Why? Because my laptop went kaput. And sadly, my notes and other records of this fanfic are in that laptop.

But it's not destroyed or anything, just having some issues in turning on, so Imma get it fixed. So I'm afraid I'll have to post the next chapter by next month at the least unless something good happens.

Thank you all and I apologize once again for the inconvenience.

 

[veekie]

Alas, technical failures spare no one.
But as long as the data is intact you are probably fine.

Ouch on the wallet tho

 

[Despacitoleo]

Thank you all and I apologize once again for the inconvenience.

Click to shrink...

its good man hope it goes cheaply for you

 

[Paracsus]

A week had passed since that conversation with Gudako about her past, and Arno's subsequent trip to City Hall. After several long days of processing forms, waiting in lines, signing papers, and listening to lectures about the rules of selling merchandise, Arno had finally secured the required paperwork. He was now allowed to sell his goods and continue commerce in Siesta.

He was also given the chance to choose a spot for the cart. That morning he drove toward the location he had selected.

The process was actually supposed to take much longer, and his options were to be much more limited if it were not for the intervention of a higher up. As of now, Arno only had a letter from said higher up about how he will be contacted at a later date.

He positioned the cart so the open side faced the flow of people moving between the merchandise stalls. Salt air mixed with the scent of coconut oil and fried food from nearby vendors. At least, some of the few that were in the same spot as him.

Niko sat in the stall lazily while playing on her phone while Gudako merely roosted on top of the cart to get some sun. The Beast girl had switched over to her Tropical Summer Mystic Code and was currently lounging on the roof while enjoying the breeze and sun. The ride over had stayed smooth overall, with the spot Arno had rented sat a short distance from the main crowds of people swimming or spreading towels under beach umbrellas. It was located near the far end of the beach, closer to the line of stalls that sold t-shirts with local slogans, stacks of surfboards for rent, flip-flops, and other beach merchandise

Just like the first few days, the sales were excruciatingly slow. Very much unlike their stay in the alleys of Lungmen.

The sun rose higher as heat built across the sand. The first buyers came in ones and twos while others were mostly curious to see what the new face had to offer. A young mother with two young Perro children asked for water and something to settle their stomachs after too much swimming. Arno handed over the bottles and crackers (one of his more mundane stocks), took the money, and watched them walk back toward their umbrella. A group of young men renting surfboards stopped for a few drinks after one of them ate sand after a particularly spectacular wipeout.

Business moved, but it was slow.

Niko let out a long, dramatic sigh and flopped backward against her chair, her phone dangling from one hand. "This suuuuuucks! We've been out here for days and barely anyone buys the good stuff. It's like people don't even notice us."

She kicked her feet lightly against the wood. "If we were closer to the water or by those big hotels, people who actually want to eat would find us. Instead we're stuck all the way out here where only the people looking for flip-flops and cheap shirts walk past. Nobody's thinking about real food when they're this far from the main crowds."

Arno wiped his hands on a towel as he finished eating a sandwich. He watched another group of tourists walk past without even glancing at the open side of the cart. "You're not wrong. Sorry that the spot isn't great. The big companies already locked down the best places, and we're the new ones with no name here. People don't know us yet."

"Oh, I didn't mean to say it was your fault, Arno. I just wish that we could've gotten more customers like the grilled fish vendors from the other day…" Niko apologized.

He glanced toward the denser part of the beach where the Colombian stalls had music playing and employees calling out deals. Crowds moved around those setups easily. "Still, I'm glad we got something at least near the beachgoers. It could have been worse; one of the options they first offered was all the way out on the edge of town with almost no foot traffic. I turned that down right away. This isn't perfect, but at least there are people walking by."

From the roof, Gudako hummed in agreement. She sat up a little, stretching her arms above her head as the sun warmed her skin. "It can't be helped. New places take time. The big companies got here first and took the spots that make the most money. We have to start somewhere."

She looked down at Niko and then over at Arno. "I've got an idea, Master. I can grab Niko here and we can walk around with some free samples. Let people try a bit of the food so they know what we're selling. Maybe that gets a few more customers to come over."

Niko's ears perked up immediately. She sat up straighter, already interested. "Yeah! We could do that. Walk near the water or by the hotel paths. Just a little taste of the bentos or the snacks. People might follow us back if they like it."

Arno thought about it for a moment. He looked at the slow trickle of people, then at the shelves that still held most of the denser foods and prepared meals. Free samples could draw attention. It had worked in other places before. But something about the idea didn't sit right this time.

He shook his head after a short pause. "I appreciate the offer. Really. But I don't think the problem is just the place."

Niko tilted her head. "What do you mean?"

Arno gestured toward the beach. "Look at who's walking around. Most of these people came here to swim, relax, and buy light stuff—drinks, sunscreen, maybe a quick snack. They're not looking for the kind of meals that sold well back in Lungmen. Different crowds with different habits."

He leaned on the counter again, watching a family set up an umbrella farther down the sand. "Even if we handed out free samples closer to the water, a lot of them would still walk past once they got the free bit since the interest for our type of merch just wouldn't be here. Plus, there are warnings lifeguards usually give about eating before swimming."

Gudako nodded slowly from the roof. "That makes sense. People want something quick and cold, not a full meal they have to sit down for. Especially since you can get cramps, which is dangerous when you're out in open and deep water.."

Niko groaned and flopped back again. "So we're stuck selling water and crackers all day while the real food sits there? That's so boring."

Arno gave a small shrug. "For now, maybe. We can adjust the stock as we go. See what people actually like and move on from there. The drinks are getting some traction in this area at least."

The sun climbed higher. More people filled the sand, but the flow past their cart stayed thin. A few more customers came by such as teenagers wanting a cold drink after playing in the waves. Each sale was relatively small so it was a slow day over all..

Niko eventually went back to her phone, though she kept glancing up every time someone walked past. Gudako stayed on the roof, eyes closed against the sun, clearly content to rest while the day dragged on. Arno stayed at the counter, greeting the occasional customer and watching the difference between their quiet stretch of beach and the busy stalls farther down.

A middle-aged couple stopped a short while later. The man asked about cold drinks while the woman looked over the smaller packaged snacks. In the end, they decided to grab some drinks and a bento to share. Arno thanked them and watched them walk away toward a cluster of umbrellas. Not a big sale, but better than nothing.

Gudako shifted on the roof, propping herself up on one elbow. "At least the candies seem to be moving faster now. Candy smoke is such a cool idea, by the way. But aside from that, I guess we can just put more emphasis on the drinks and smaller snacks and candies since the meals aren't really going anywhere. The coffee is cool too, but it's not really a beach drink unless you wanna start making those supposed artisanal crap where they pump loads of sugar, cream and sprinkles on it. Y'know, the kind that makes it look good on camera?"

Arno rubbed his nape and grimaced at the idea. "Please don't. Those ones barely even taste like coffee anymore, and the hype dies down really fast anyways. Let's just emphasize the drinks and candies more and go from there."

"Okie-dokie! I'll just put up a sign that says we also have food too, as well as put some sample cups out."

They did exactly that a short while later. Arno and Niko moved the water bottles and packaged light snacks to the front edge of the open side while the meals were put back in storage. Gudako stayed on the roof, occasionally calling down when she spotted someone looking their way.

The change helped a little. A few more people stopped for drinks. One woman bought two pieces of jam-filled bread for her kids. Still, the overall pace remained far slower than what they had grown used to.


More people started drifting closer as the afternoon wore on. Not a crowd, but a steadier trickle than the morning. Most of them came because of the Sugarettes. Word had spread a little among the nearby stalls and the people walking the path between the merchandise stands. A few workers from the shirt and surfboard shops wandered over during their breaks, curious about the unusual product. They bought one or two packs each, talked about the candy smoke for a minute, and then headed back to their own counters.

Random passersby also stopped more often once they noticed the small display. A couple of younger visitors asked questions about how the Sugarettes worked and bought a pack to try. An older man from one of the neighboring stalls bought three packs at once, saying he wanted to share them with the other vendors later. Each of those sales helped, but they were still small and spaced out.

Even with the extra interest, overall business stayed relatively slow. The novelty of the Sugarettes brought people over, but it just barely turned into steady traffic.

Another problem became clear as the day went on. The section of beach they were near apparently did not allow smoking, as shown by signs posted along the path and near the sand made it plain. Most of the people who bought Sugarettes ended up tucking the packs away instead of lighting one right there, while a few of them walked farther down the beach or toward the parking areas before they tried them. That limited how much the product could draw in new customers on the spot. People could buy them, but they could not really experience them while standing in front of the cart to bring more intrigue.

Most of the remaining sales came from the other shops nearby and from the occasional random passerby who happened to notice the open side of the cart. Workers from the flip-flop and souvenir stalls stopped by now and then for a drink or a small snack with the occasional bento. A few tourists who had already finished swimming wandered past looking for something cold. None of them stayed long, and none of them bought in large amounts.

Gudako watched the pattern with growing boredom. She had long finished her tanning session and was now just sitting behind the counter with Arno, chin in her hands. Niko had gone back inside to play on their gaming console after it became apparent that Arno didn't need help.

"At least we're getting some attention," she said. "But even those aren't selling that fast because nobody can smoke them here. It's like the one interesting thing we have is stuck behind a rule."

Arno nodded while restocking a few bottles of juice. "Yeah. But I can't help but be happy that they're taking the cleanliness of the beach so seriously though. Back home, most beaches had you up to your knees in trash. It still sucks that it's hard to sell though."

Gudako shifted on the roof, looking down at the path. "At least the workers from the other stalls seem interested? So… maybe they will tell more people later. Still, it is not enough to fill the day."

She then got a playful look in her eye as without warning, her original Tropical Summer getup…

To her Brilliant Summer Mystic Code.

"You know~... I coouuuld just lounge around like this. Just…gathering more peeps to come to the cart with my looks, y'know? What shop doesn't like a good poster girl to bring in more customers? Someone like…moi~? Come on, don't look at me like that. You saw how well it worked befo—OW!"

Before Gudako could enact her devious plan, Arno started pinching cheek, making her wince.

"Gudako, the last time you used your charm powers on people to get customers, you started a riot. People started climbing over each other to get a glimpse of you, remember? Besides, Niko is the poster girl."

"Pshh!" Gudako waved her Master's hand away. "That's ancient history! I can just tone it down! And as much as I respect Niko's cuteness, she's got nothing on yours truly~."

"THAT WAS TWO DAYS AGO!"

During that incident, Gudako changed into a rather provocative swimsuit that showed off her curves and toned muscles while taking poses near the entrance of the gate. And while she does look supernaturally beautiful with her powers, she also demonstrated a new power to Arno that had him use every ounce of self-control to keep things respectful.

Fellas, ya gurl can shapeshift.

And wouldn't you know it, she can somehow give herself the proportions and features of one of the more gifted Servants from Chaldea. People naturally were drawn in by the extremely hot figure and were ready to take pictures when the Beast girl did something extra stupid.

She took off the ring suppressing her powers.

It was barely 20 minutes later when Zelretch popped over after receiving a distress call from Niko with her phone, the latter having knocked out Arno after he once again fell victim to Gudako's spell (with a skillet this time, as revenge for burning her pancakes as the dummy was too busy staring at her friend's boobies. But you didn't hear that from Niko, no siree bob, you didn't hear nothing.)

Spoiler: Imagine her holding a skillet

And the Wizard Marshall found a gigantic crowd of people trying to knock down a post that Gudako was on top of to escape their clutches. The girl looked very sheepish when she noticed Sir Kaleidoscope looking at her with a tired expression.

With the assistance of the Kaleidosticks, they were successfully able to knock everyone out and wipe their memories of the events. And Gudako was given a stern talking to by both Arno and Zelretch when things got back to normal.

She is currently still not allowed to play her gacha games for the next two weeks after that, making her whine and beg for Arno to reconsider.

"B-but…what about my dailies?! I need to do those to make more rolls!" Gudako pleaded while on her knees. "C'mon, Master! Please! Is there nothing else I can do other than this?!"

Niko promised to play her games for her while she was grounded to make sure the gacha addict didn't miss out on the event. Yet all it did was succeed in making her whine even louder as her Master didn't budge. Only stopping when Arno threatened to extend it by a month.

It was only a coincidence that nobody was able to get pictures before the Beast girl got swarmed. Who knows what would have happened if her pictures started floating around the web. But that didn't stop Gudako, even while grounded, to make certain parts of herself larger when she knew Arno was looking, as if to tease him.

"No, I'm not lifting the ban. Especially since you don't seem to regret what happened considering that you're suggesting it again."

"Phooey."

It mostly continued like that until near closing time with only the odd purchase of some bread and bentos for a customer and his buddies at the other shops. Yet just before they began closing, an elegant voice chimed out from the path, clear enough to cut through the low evening sounds of the beach.

"Good evening, Mr. Arno. Slow day as usual, I suppose?"

Arno turned and he saw Lady Ceylon standing a short distance away, dressed neatly despite the sand and salt air. Schwarz remained a step behind her, quiet and watchful as always.

Arno set down the panel he had been securing and gave a small bow. "Yes, milady. It appears that my friends and I are currently at a disadvantage, but we'll figure something out."

Ceylon tsked lightly, the sound more amused than irritated. "Please drop the formalities, good sir. I am just a quaint researcher, after all."

"Nonsense, milady." Arno's lips turned up slightly. "You are my benefactor, and if it weren't for you, I would have probably been sent to the outskirts or something to sell my goods. It is only natural for me to address you in this manner."

Ceylon regarded him for a moment, then let out a quiet breath that might have been a sigh.

"…You're never going to stop, are you? At least Miss Niko over there got the memo. Please note that I am not holding any title of benefactor over your head so that you feel obligated to owe me money or favors. You could simply say that I was… intrigued by your product line, as well as the effects you claim they produce." The young liberi researcher said as she watched her sister and bodyguard go near the counter.

"Many merchants have tried to pull the wool over my eyes with so-called remedies and 'special' goods. Most of it is little more than clever packaging and empty promises. Yours, however, have shown results that are rather difficult to dismiss. Potent, one might say. That alone is worth taking seriously, so bravo."

As she said this, Gudako offered a foldable chair for her to sit in while Arno opened a large bottle of juice for them to share while they talked.

While they spoke, Schwarz moved past them without a word and approached the open side of the cart. Niko looked up, a little surprised, then quickly shifted into her usual helpful mode.

"Hi, Miss Schwarz." Niko said. "Do you want anything? We're near closing time, but I can dig something up if you like."

Schwarz gave a short nod. "The usual drinks, please. And more of the packaged meals if you still have them." Her voice was low and even. She placed a list of orders on the counter without fuss and waited while Niko gathered the items.

Niko packed the drinks and meals into a small bag and handed it over. "Oooh, another big one, huh? Okay, I'll just go get the stuff, so please wait. At least SOME people know good food when they see it." The cat—err, young girl muttered the last part under her breath.

Schwarz took the bag with a brief "Appreciated," then stepped back to stand near her charge while Niko and Gudako went to gather the items..

Arno straightened from his slight bow. "I'm glad the goods have proven useful, milady. We've been adjusting what we put forward each day, trying to match what people here actually reach for."

Ceylon's gaze moved briefly over the remaining displays, then back to him. "Adaptation is the sensible approach. A researcher who refuses to revise their methods when the data changes rarely produces anything of lasting value. The same principle applies to commerce, I imagine." She paused, then added in a slightly lighter tone, "I trust the location has not been entirely unkind, even if the pace is slower than what you were accustomed to."

"It's manageable, I guess." Arno replied. "And considering that we are somewhat independent, that is to say that we do not have a corporation to back us up, it is to be expected. We will bounce back after a while when we figure out what to give people here, so rest assured that we will not be a pit of money for you, milady."

Ceylon nodded once, satisfied with the answer but still rolled her eyes at the address. "There you go again, good sir, with your overly formal address. But nonetheless, it is good to hear that you can still draw in customers even if it is a slight hassle to get here."

She glanced toward the darkening water, then back at the cart. "I won't keep you from closing. The evening is already advancing, and I have reports of my own to finish. Schwarz and I simply happened to be in the area."

Schwarz remained silent, though her eyes flicked once toward the path leading away from the beach, already assessing the route back.

Niko finished securing the last of the lighter items and leaned on the counter. "You're welcome anytime. The drinks stay cold, at least. Bye, miss Ceylon! Bye, miss Schwarz!"

Ceylon gave a small, polite smile in Niko's direction. "I shall keep that in mind, and thank you once again." She turned her attention fully to Arno again. "Continue as you are. And please drop the overly formal talk, next time."

Arno inclined his head. "Thank you, milady. We'll keep at it."

Ceylon sighed as she did not correct the formality this time. She simply adjusted the strap of the bag Schwarz carried and prepared to leave. "Then I wish you a quieter evening than the day that preceded it. Oh, and Father has taken an interest in the food that we have been bringing back as of late, so expect him to contact you soon."

Schwarz thanked them as well and waved a little before turning, then fell into step beside Ceylon as they started back along the path. Their figures moved steadily away from the cart, the elegant researcher and her quiet shadow, until the growing dusk began to soften their outlines.

Arno watched them go for a moment longer before turning back to the final latches. Niko stretched her arms above her head and yawned.

"She's nicer than she looks at first," Niko said. "Still talks like she's grading a paper, though."

Arno gave a short huff of amusement and finished securing the side of the cart. "She's a researcher after all. Must be used to using plenty of academic jargon and terms when writing and speaking due to her background.."

Gudako, who had remained quiet near the rear during the exchange, finally spoke. "She's still a nice girl, Master, even if prideful and haughty at times. So take it easy when you tease her like that."

"That's rich, coming from you. And how do you know that she's haughty? She seemed pretty nice so far?" Arno asked as he put away the extra chairs.

"I have my ways."

The three of them finished the last of the closing work as the beach prepared for its evening visitors, and with shops changing out their signs and even decor to receive them. But unknownst to the trio, they shall soon be a part of that very group.

---

The Entity watched the cart from its usual distance.

Sales on the Siesta beach remained thin as only light snacks moved in small amounts. Sugarettes drew a few workers from nearby stalls, but it was not enough in its eyes.

Do not misunderstand. The Entity is thankful that his apostles employees have been working hard to unknowingly spread its influence, but it needed more.

The Entity reviewed the scenario with mild concern, as even though it was still gaining currency, it fears that its project will come to a halt as the little interest in the cart blows over and is forgotten.

It considered several options. Adding more novelty items risked running into local rules the way the Sugarettes already had, and skepticism of more odd products can be red flags for the customers. Pushing the heavier stock harder would waste effort. Something new was required…something tourists can enjoy on the beach.

The Entity turned its attention to its own stores. Rows of possibilities waited there, most of them either too dramatic or too plain for the present need. It moved through them methodically until its focus settled on the wine cabinet.

The cabinet held bottles collected over a long period. Some were ordinary. Others carried effects that can be considered miraculous or cursed depending on the beholder.

The idea took shape quickly. The cart could receive a limited run of the simpler spirits and wines as an experiment. The effects would remain light and temporary. Nothing that violated local regulations. Nothing that drew unwanted attention. Just enough difference to make a customer stop, taste, and remember the cart.

It was genius, the Entity realized.

The Entity began preparing the shipment with complete confidence. In its view the quantities were modest, the effects mild, and the packaging perfectly clear with its instructions. Arno would find the crates waiting in storage the next morning. They would set the bottles out, explain them in simple terms, and the beach would respond exactly as the Entity expected.

It considered the plan elegant. A lighter drinks such as beer would cause mild bouts of relaxation while the whiskey and rum would bring out one's courage. By its own measure the effects sat firmly in the "gentle and harmless" range. The Entity saw no reason anyone would struggle with them.

It finished the arrangements, satisfied that it had solved the problem with precision and restraint. The shipment was then whisked into the cart's storage without further thought, while the Entity returned its attention to the three operators, certain they would handle the new stock with their usual practicality. It then went on to busy itself to write a new notice to give its chosen people directions on how to use these items.

What it did not account for was the gap between its own standards and those of the average person on Terra.

---

The Entity: I'M HALPING!

Everyone else: Please stop helping.


AN: Hello, consumers. I'm back with a new, albeit shorter chapter for this fic. This is just a way for me to get back into the swing of things as I've been busy with things on my end. Thank you for everyone that's been waiting for my glorious return. Sadly, the original chapter in place of this didn't get saved on the Cloud for some reason, so I had to redo it from scratch. Hopefully it's okay with y'alls in terms of quality. So I'll see you guys in the next chapter.

By the way, the scene with Gudako causing a riot? Here's a mental image for y'all. She decided to go out there on the beach entrance before Arno could stop her, and chose Jalter's swimsuit.

Okay, that isn't so bad, right? It's pretty hot for what it is, and it shows off the original's form very well, so what's wrong?

She wore that…and donned Raikou's figure. And it just spiralled from there. One can be thankful she didn't decide to go full Passionlip or Barghest when she did it.

 

[aquanine]

Thanks for the chappy

 

[CereysKerrigan]

What, the cure/Vac for orignium?

 

[Krein]

A lighter drinks such as beer would cause mild bouts of relaxation while the whiskey and rum would bring out one's courage.

Click to shrink...

...Those are going to be literal 'mind-affecting alcoholic potions', aren't they?

She wore that…and donned Raikou's figure

Click to shrink...

pics or it didn't happen

 

[Paracsus]

...Those are going to be literal 'mind-affecting alcoholic potions', aren't they?


pics or ir didn't happen

Click to shrink...

Nobody was able to take pics because they all went insane, remember.

 

[Paracsus]

What, the cure/Vac for orignium?

Click to shrink...

Nope. Something liek that will be quite a ways away.

 

[Krein]

Nobody was able to take pics because they all went insane, remember.

Click to shrink...

Terrible, terrible loss.

 

[Riero]

Honestly, not sure I'm a fan of the entity having a PoV section. The mysterious benefactor angle was pretty powerful and having its PoV removes a good chunk of the mystery.

I see how the PoV was useful here, since it shows that the entity can make mistakes, I'm just not sure that it's worth the cost. But for the life of me, I don't see how else a similar effect could be done.

The plot going forward isn't affected regardless of the PoV, but without it, it makes the coming mistake seem intentional to the readers, like the entity is being more aggressively helpful unlike before. I suppose that's just the price of writing.

 

[Paracsus]

Honestly, not sure I'm a fan of the entity having a PoV section. The mysterious benefactor angle was pretty powerful and having its PoV removes a good chunk of the mystery.

I see how the PoV was useful here, since it shows that the entity can make mistakes, I'm just not sure that it's worth the cost. But for the life of me, I don't see how else a similar effect could be done.

The plot going forward isn't affected regardless of the PoV, but without it, it makes the coming mistake seem intentional to the readers, like the entity is being more aggressively helpful unlike before. I suppose that's just the price of writing.

Click to shrink...

It was mostly an answer to some previous comments on how it's weird that the Windrunner's Fuel felt like Deus Ex Machina in how the problem was immediately fixed wherein The Entity is trying to help, but isn't sure how to do so with how genuinely awkward it is when handling mortals so below it's power. So the speed buff only got nerfed AFTER the problem presented itself and not before.

Like, trying to give ants some water, only to accudentally drown said ants. But now that the Enitity can see that Arno can bounce back with what he's given, it's now emboldened to try and help more, even if the result becomes lopsided.

This POV won't be common though, just a look into how its brain ticks.

 

[Riero]

It was mostly an answer to some previous comments on how it's weird that the Windrunner's Fuel felt like Deus Ex Machina in how the problem was immediately fixed wherein The Entity is trying to help, but isn't sure how to do so with how genuinely awkward it is when handling mortals so below it's power. So the speed buff only got nerfed AFTER the problem presented itself and not before.

Like, trying to give ants some water, only to accudentally drown said ants. But now that the Enitity can see that Arno can bounce back with what he's given, it's now emboldened to try and help more, even if the result becomes lopsided.

This POV won't be common though, just a look into how its brain ticks.

Click to shrink...

If the goal was to make the entity basically say that it has more faith in Arno's capabilities now, then maybe just write that? It does feel like that's an important thing you just dropped and I don't feel that was represented in the PoV section.

It definitely felt blatantly like the entity is just a Product Development guy with a lot of power and creative freedom but little to no market research. No mentions of possible risk or Arno being able to handle it now.

 

[Paracsus]

If the goal was to make the entity basically say that it has more faith in Arno's capabilities now, then maybe just write that? It does feel like that's an important thing you just dropped and I don't feel that was represented in the PoV section.

Click to shrink...

I was planning to, but when I tried to do it this way it just wouldn't manifest correctly. I just couldn't figure out a way to actually make it seem in character without The Entity seeming too human.

In the end, it's a lack of skill on my part.

 

[Fragment of Serenity]

The Beast of Gatcha and Salt remains unchanged, I see.

I now need an image of Beast Gudako perched on the roof like a sphinx, sunning herself and looking supremely smug.

You know. As she do.

 

[Paracsus]

The Beast of Gatcha and Salt remains unchanged, I see.

I now need an image of Beast Gudako perched on the roof like a sphinx, sunning herself and looking supremely smug.

You know. As she do.

Click to shrink...

I have a drawing in the Extra chapters of her being that statue enemy from a little while back.

You can put that on your roof, I guess.

 

[guisniperman]

I'm sure Medical Grade Alcohol will be useful in some way.

 

[readingrainbow]

Magical wine and beer.
In about a week they will have a mob that will just straight up pickup the cart and carry it into a dark hole somewhere and never let it see the light of day again.

 

[Paracsus]

Magical wine and beer.
In about a week they will have a mob that will just straight up pickup the cart and carry it into a dark hole somewhere and never let it see the light of day again.

Click to shrink...

Fuck that. The Durin are just gonna tunnel under the beach, and the next day everyone will see a giant sinkhole where the Cart used to be.

 

[WolfSpatial]

The Traveler's League: The Merchant, by WolfSpatial

Click to shrink...

I'm honored. Looks like a good story so far, I'll be reading your story when I can.

 

[Paracsus]

I'm honored. Looks like a good story so far, I'll be reading your story when I can.

Click to shrink...

Hey, man. Good to have you.

 

[Paracsus]

The Rhodes Island cafeteria had been rearranged for the afternoon. Tables were pushed together into longer rows. Streamers hung from the ceiling supports. A banner with "Happy Birthday Exusiai!" written in thick marker stretched across one wall. Operators filled the space, some standing, some sitting, all talking over each other. The volume stayed high from the moment the first group arrived.

Penguin Logistics had claimed the center tables. Texas sat with her arms crossed, expression flat as usual. Croissant leaned back in her chair with both boots on the edge of another seat while Sora checked the small speaker she had brought. The main boss, Emperor occupied the end of the main table, sunglasses on, one hand tapping a rhythm on the wood.

Lemuen sat beside her sister's empty chair. She had arrived earlier and helped tell the kitchen staff what her sister's favorite foods were. She had asked for special leave from missions to attend the special occasion, and had even brought some special donuts from Laterano to pad the already large feast.

Exusiai pushed through the entrance with her usual energy. Her halo was near blinding with how excited she was as Bison (who was accompanying her) had to wear shades indoors. The moment people saw her, the cheering started. Operators from different departments raised cups and hands. Someone whistled. A few voices shouted her name at the same time.

"There she is!" Croissant yelled. "Birthday girl in the building!"

Exusiai threw both arms up. "You actually did it! I thought you were joking about the banner!"

Texas gave a short nod. "Sora made us."

Sora waved from her seat. "I only suggested it. Everyone else did the work."

Emperor pointed at the empty chair next to Lemuen. "Sit down before somebody else claims the good spot."

Exusiai dropped into the chair and hugged the life out of her big sister. "You came all the way here. I didn't think the paperwork would let you."

Lemuen patted her shoulder once. "I had some time before my next mission. Besides, missing my beloved sister's special day would have been unacceptable."

The Doctor walked over from the kitchen side, carrying a large cake on a tray. Gummy followed right behind, flour still on her sleeves and a proud smile on her face. The cake had white frosting and several apple slices arranged on top in a rough circle. Small candles stuck out at uneven angles.

Gummy set the tray down carefully. "I made it this morning! Extra apple pieces because everyone in the landship and beyond said you like them. And I even made the frosting extra sweet according to how Mr. Fededrico and Miss Lemuen said you'd like them"

Exusiai's eyes went wide. "Gummy, this looks amazing! Thank you so so so much!"

Gummy bounced once on her heels. "I wanted it to look nice, and Mr. Matterhorn said I should not put the whole apple on top, so I cut them instead."

The Doctor held the cake steady as Emperor began lighting the candles while several operators started the birthday song. The cafeteria joined in without much coordination and Croissant belted the last part louder than everyone else. When the song ended, the cheering came back even stronger.

Exusiai clasped her hands together. "Okay, okay, make a wish time!"

She closed her eyes for two seconds, then opened them and blew out every candle in one long breath. A few people clapped. Someone at the back table shouted "Speech! Speech! Speech!"

Exusiai stood up on the chair. Texas reached over and steadied it without looking. "Thanks for showing up, everyone. I know some of you have shifts later, so I will keep this short. First, apple pie is still the best food. Second, parties are mandatory. Third, if anybody needs a delivery that involves shooting, call me first."

Lemuen covered a small smile with her hand. "That was almost responsible of you."

"I am always responsible," Exusiai said matter-of-factly. She hopped down and pulled Lemuen into a side hug. "87% of the time, I'm just having fun. But the remaining 13%, I am responsible 100%!"

The sister being hugged by the birthday girl wisely kept her mouth shut about all the property damage she racked up back home.

Emperor tapped the table. "Cake first. Talk later. Some of us have places to be after this."

"Hey, hey! Don't rush the birthday girl!

Gummy handed the Doctor a knife. The Doctor cut the first slice and passed it to Exusiai. She took a big bite immediately and gave a thumbs-up with her free hand. "Perfect. Sweet but not too much. The apples are still a little crunchy. Ten out of ten."

Gummy beamed. "Really? I can make another one next week if you want."

"Really?! Yay!"

Plates started moving around the tables. Operators lined up for slices. Sora poured drinks from the cooler she had prepared. Bison handed out napkins and tried to keep the line orderly. Croissant took two plates at once and declared it efficient.

Texas accepted a small piece and ate it in silence. Exusiai leaned over. "You like it?"

"It is fine."

"That means you like it."

Texas did not argue.

Lemuen took her own plate and sat back. Exusiai dropped into the chair beside her again. "How long can you stay?"

"Until tomorrow afternoon, as I have a mission after that."

"Then we are packing the rest of the day. I already asked Sora to play the good playlist. Croissant promised not to start any betting games until after cake."

Croissant raised her fork. "I never said that."

"Awww! Pweaase????" Exusiai answered.

"Ughh! Fiiiine. But you better make some hefty wagers, you hear?"

Sora turned the speaker up a little. A steady beat filled the cafeteria. A few operators near the back started moving to the rhythm. Emperor nodded along once, then went back to his plate.

Bison approached the main table with a small wrapped box. "From MountainDash. My father said to give this to you. It is not much, but he insisted."

Exusiai took the box and shook it once. "Tell him thanks. And tell him Penguin Logistics still does interesting jobs."

Bison sighed. "I will leave that part out."

More people stopped by the table over the next hour. Some dropped off small gifts. Others just wanted a quick conversation. Exusiai handled every greeting with the same energy, bouncing between jokes and short stories about recent deliveries. Lemuen listened to most of them, occasionally adding a dry comment that made Exusiai laugh harder.

Gummy returned from the kitchen with a second tray of smaller pastries. "These are for later. Or for now. I made extra."

Croissant grabbed three. "This is why you are the best."

Texas took one more slice of cake when no one was looking. Sora noticed and said nothing.

Emperor stood up after a while and raised his cup. "Listen up, birthday girl. You get one free pass on the next overtime shift; so use it wisely. Everybody else, back to work when the food is gone. Long live the Penguin Empire."

A few operators repeated the line. Exusiai saluted with her fork. "Long live the Penguin Empire!"

The party continued past the first hour. Music stayed on. People rotated in and out of the cafeteria as shifts changed. Exusiai never sat still for long. She moved between tables, pulled Lemuen along for introductions, and made sure Gummy received enough compliments on the cake.

At one point Lemuen caught her sister's wrist. "You do not have to talk to every single person, dear sister."

"Yes I do. It is my birthday. And what better way to spend my b-day than spending it with all my buddies?!"

Lemuen shook her head yet smiled.

Niko and Gudako pushed open the cafeteria doors while the party was still going strong. Music played from Sora's speaker, and Exusiai was in an eating frenzy over at the main table.

Niko spotted her immediately and waved both arms. "Exusiai! Over here!"

Exusiai's head snapped around and she abandoned the table after stuffing down more donuts, weaving past chairs and people.

"You guys made it!" she said, grabbing Niko's shoulders. "I thought you guys were stuck somewhere!"

Niko grinned and held up a large box wrapped in bright paper. "We almost were since Arno is still working on his gift. He said it needed more time and told us to go ahead without him. He might not make it before the party ends."

Exusiai's face fell into an exaggerated pout. Her lower lip stuck out and her shoulders slumped. "Aww, what? He's missing the cake and the games? That's no fun, though! I was saving him a slice and everything."

Gudako stepped forward, carrying two sturdy baskets covered with cloth. She placed them down on the nearby gift table as she regarded the fellow redhead. "Weeeelll, it's his fault for not starting on making his present earlier when he knew it was gonna take a while. But don't worry, I gave him an earful and even mentioned how sad you'll be that you wouldn't be able to see him."

"Good! At least now he'll know not to miss such an important day!" Exusiai kept the pout for another second, then let it melt into a smile. She reached out and took the box from Niko first. "Fine, fine. I'll forgive him this time. But only because you two showed up."

Niko bounced on her toes. "Open it later if you want, but it's a whole set of pocket novels. I got you a whole bunch so that you won't get bored while you're out. And I made sure to pick out the most epic sounding ones too!"

Exusiai's eyes lit up. She gave the box a gentle shake and grinned. "Pocket novels? You're the best. I'm reading these on every long delivery from now on."

Gudako held out the two baskets. "These are from me. I made these extra special for you since it's your birthday, so please tell me what they're like, okay?"

Exusiai accepted the baskets carefully, peeking under the cloth for a moment before looking up. "You cooked all this? For my birthday?" She pulled Gudako into a quick one-armed hug, balancing the baskets against her side. "Thank you. Seriously. This is awesome."

Niko tugged on Exusiai's sleeve. "Can we stay for a bit? We already ate, but we can still hang out."

"Of course you can stay," Exusiai said. She turned toward the Penguin Logistics table and raised her voice. "Hey, everyone! Look who finally showed up!"

Texas glanced over and gave a short nod. Croissant waved a fork. Sora smiled and scooted over to make room. Lemuen looked up from her plate and offered a small wave of her own.

Exusiai led Niko and Gudako over to the table, still carrying the box and the two baskets. She set everything down carefully, then dropped into her chair again with both newcomers beside her.

"Arno's stuck finishing his gift," she told the group, still sounding a little disappointed. "But these two made it, and they brought presents. So it's still a good day."

Niko immediately started describing the novels to anyone who would listen. Gudako sat more quietly, answering questions about the food baskets with short, polite replies. Exusiai kept one hand on the edge of the gift box and the other near the baskets, as if making sure neither would disappear.

The music continued. Plates kept moving. The party rolled on with two extra guests at the table, and Exusiai's earlier pout was already gone, replaced by the same bright energy she had carried all afternoon.

Later, when the crowd thinned a little, it was obvious that the party has now entered its latest phase towards completion. Niko and Gudako were off in their own little groups as they mingled with their own circle of friends.

Exusiai rested her elbows on the table and looked at her sister. "Thanks for coming, big sis. Seriously. I know how busy you can get so this is a big thing."

Lemuen met her eyes. "I would not miss it for the world, my dear sister."

"And you say that every year. Next year you have to stay longer."

"I know I do, and it shall remain true forevermore. And we will see if I can stay for longer."

Texas spoke without looking up. "There will be another party. She will make sure of it."

Exusiai grinned. "See? Even my buddies here know what's up."

Emperor finished his drink and set the cup down. "Good cake. Tell the Ursus kid she can cook for the company sometime. Pay is negotiable."

Gummy, who had been collecting plates nearby, spun around. "Really? I can bring more apple recipes!"

"You're gonna have to talk to Arno though. He's our unofficial caterer."

The remaining operators began drifting out as the afternoon schedule resumed. A few stayed to help stack chairs while Exusiai handed out a few more hugs and high fives with other operators before they left. She traded a few more words with Sora about the playlist as other people promised each other to share the photos they took of the occasion.

When the cafeteria had mostly emptied, Exusiai dropped back into her chair and let out a long breath. Lemuen stayed beside her.

"As always, birthdays are so much fun.," Exusiai said.

Lemuen nodded. "It was. You looked happy the entire time."

"I was, and I still am." She bumped her shoulder against Lemuen's. "Same time next year?"

"I will check the calendar."

Texas stood and stretched. "We should head out soon. Traffic on the lower decks gets worse after this."

Exusiai hopped up. "Yeah, yeah. One more piece of cake for the road."

She cut a final slice, wrapped it in a napkin, and handed half to her sister. Lemuen accepted it without comment. The two of them followed the rest of Penguin Logistics toward the exit, still talking as they walked.

Behind them, the banner stayed on the wall. A few streamers had come loose and hung lower than before. Empty plates sat in stacks on the counters. The cafeteria staff had already started resetting the tables for the evening meal.

Exusiai looked back once before the doors closed. She raised her free hand in a wide wave at the remaining operators, then turned and kept walking with her sister and the rest of the crew to turn in for the night.

But just before Exusiai could get to her room, she was stopped by the familiar Mr. Seller.

Arno stood alone in the corridor with two packages keeping him company. One was a small box that he had tucked under his arm while another was a larger, heavy duty crate that was as large as a toolbox.

"Happy birthday, Exusiai," he said. "Sorry I could not make it to the party. Gathering everything took longer than I expected."

Exusiai waved a hand and smiled. "Gudako and Niko already explained what happened, and said that you were stuck finishing the gifts. I already forgave you, so do not worry about it."

"I'm still really guilty about it though. But I promise that these things will knock your socks off."

"Well, I sure hope so with how much you're hyping it up right now. And I was gonna look for you anyway. Here. I saved some cake because I wanted to share it with you."

Surprised, Arno took the to-go box and shifted the packages slightly. "Appreciate it. Do you have a minute? I would prefer some privacy for this."

Exusiai blinked, caught off guard by the serious tone. She glanced down the empty hallway, then back at him and nodded. "Yeah. Sure. Come in."

She unlocked the door and stepped aside. Arno followed her into the room and set both packages down on the edge of her bed. The door clicked shut behind them as the redhead made sure to lock the door and windows.

"Go ahead and open the first one," he said, gesturing to the smaller of the two packages.

Exusiai tore the paper open without hesitation. Inside sat a compact gun cleaning kit arranged in a sturdy case. Rows of custom brushes, cloths, and small bottles of oil filled the compartments. The brushes were shaped differently from standard Laterano kits, and the bottles carried no commercial labels.

Arno watched her examine the contents. "That kit is based on the one I use for my own weapon. The oils are mixed specifically for the kind of residue that bullets leave behind, and the brushes are cut to match the grooves on your gun. I use the same set whenever I clean mine. While I'm not sure if Originium bullets have the same problem as the ones I do, they should still be pretty handy."

Exusiai's eyes widened. She lifted one of the brushes and turned it under the light, then picked up a bottle and checked the viscosity of the oil against the side of the glass. A bright grin spread across her face as she perused the instructions Arno wrote on each oil..

"You made this for my gun? With the same stuff you use on yours?" She looked up at him, clearly excited. "This is perfect. I've been meaning to get a replacement and refills on my own stuff when I got back home. These look like they will last way longer."

She set the brush down carefully and reached for the second package, still smiling.

Exusiai opened the crate slowly and carefully, as if to psych herself up for the big reveal. And inside were numerous cardboard boxes with 4 different color schemes. Confused, she picked a black box and shook it to try and identify the contents from sound alone. Now intrigued, she removed the tape on the side and opened it; and her eyes widened as she finally realized what the contents were.

Inside the box, in their own plastic case…were bullets.

They lacked the distinct feeling of Originium that once would sense to activate them. The metal had a duller finish, and the tips varied in shape and color depending on the group as she took a look at the other boxes as well. All seemed to be made perfectly for her weapon.

Arno watched her face as she stared at them.

"Those are the main gifts," he said. "I made every one of them myself. They are not Originium rounds as the compounds and chemicals come from materials I know from home. I cannot tell you exactly what they are made of or how the reactions work. That information stays with me. What matters is that each bullet was loaded and checked by hand; each type with their own specialties."

Exusiai's hands froze over the case. She looked from the bullets to Arno, then back again. Her halo flickered brighter for a moment.

"You made these? Actual ammunition?" She picked up one of the rounds and turned it between her fingers. "Your gun does not use Originium. It does not need an Arts adapter either. I remember that from the first time I saw you clean it. Everyone else on this landship runs on Originium or Arts in some way. Yours just… works differently."

She started to ask another question, but Arno raised a hand slightly.

"Let me explain the batches first," he said. "There are three kinds. I had to put them together carefully since gathering the right materials took time. It also took some brainstorming to figure out how I can ask for some assistance from other operators to make them without exposing the secret. I also went through the Rhodes R&D team with questions that sounded like general research and almost got exposed. Thankfully, Team Rainbow were the best of help when it came to these with their own practical experience."

Exusiai set the single bullet back in its slot and leaned closer to the case. "S-So…three kinds, huh? Gimme the skinny, Mr. Seller."

Her excitement was palpable as she was almost vibrating in place, probably about to sprint to the shooting range the moment he finishes.

Arno pointed to the first group of boxes, being the orange ones. Exusiai went and opened them to reveal the cargo had a slightly darker coating and had blue tips at the end..

"These are the incendiary rounds," he said. "When they hit a hard surface or a target, they create a short, intense burst of heat and flame. While it doesn't turn you into Operator Ifrit in an instant, ("Aww." Exia said, slightly disappointed.) It is still useful against equipment, barriers, or even enemy armor as it can make the person catch fire. While useful against these things, they lose the penetration that your own stuff usually has. Not only that, but it can be dangerous because firing too much can cause too much smoke and even a fire.

Exusiai picked one up again and examined the tip more carefully. "So if I put a few of these into a group of drones or an armored grunt, it would heat things up fast."

"Yes. Short burn, high heat. Do not use them near anything you want to keep intact."

She placed it back in the box and moved to the middle section. These bullets actually had silver colored cartridges and had…holes in the top of the bullets?.

"Hollow points," he said. "These are built for soft targets. When they hit something squishy like flesh, muscle, anything without hard plating, they expand and dump almost all their energy right there. They do not over-penetrate the way regular rounds do so you don't need to worry all that much about collateral damage when allies are in the firing zone. And they are especially deadly against things that aren't the average Shieldguard, so you can use them against normal grunts or even drones to knock them out.

Exusiai's eyes stayed fixed on the open tips. "Most of the Originium rounds we use either pierce or shatter. These are built to stay inside and do the work there." She glanced up at him. "You really made each one by hand?"

"Every single one, specially made for my favorite redhead."

"Me? Your favorite?! Aww, shucks! You're making me blush~!" Exusiai flushed as she giggled.

(Meanwhile, Gudako suddenly looked up in alarm and rage as if feeling a disturbance in the force. She felt insulted, as if someone stepped on a boundary of hers. In her outrage, she almost broke Hoederer's arm as she had challenged him earlier in an arm wrestling competition over a signed copy of U-Official's poster. She apologized profusely as a confused Niko went to work and healed the poor man.)

Exusiai nodded slowly and shifted another set. These bullets were different from the rest as they had red rounded tips, and touching them reminded her of a dodgeball..

"Rubber rounds," Arno said. "Non-lethal if used correctly, but they hurt and can be used to stun or suppress. They can bruise, knock someone down, or break small bones if you aim poorly, but they are meant to stop a person without killing them. The material is denser than standard training rounds."

"Rubber? Why would I need these, though? Generally, we kinda run on the M.O. of 'shoot to kill', no?"

"Well, if you have someone you wanna take in alive, you can use them there. Or, if you're in a highly populated area for civilians, at least it can reduce accidental death by a lot."

"Ooooohhhh. I see, I see. Well, I'll keep them anyway, just in case."

She set the rubber round down. Before she could lean back, her eyes caught one more group tucked near the edge of the case. These bullets stood out immediately as the tips were black and sharply pointed, completely different from the rounded profiles she was used to seeing on the others.

Exusiai reached in and picked one up. "What about these?"

Arno nodded toward the black-tipped rounds. "These little ones are Armor Piercing. The core is denser and the tip is shaped to punch through hard surfaces. They are meant for tougher targets that you seem to struggle with considering how your usual stuff seems to just bounce off their shields. However, the trade-off is that they do less damage to soft targets because they tend to pass straight through instead of expanding, unlike the hollow points or the usual stuff you use. These ones and its soft target sister were especially difficult to make, so please use them wisely."

(Arno still remembered the earful he got from Vulcan and Eunectes when he requested these particularly difficult orders from them; the former was ready to rip his head off in frustration at how delicate the hollow points were. And both were ready to charge him double as he refused to tell them what the "stupid lumps of metal" were for.)

Exusiai turned the pointed black tip under the light, studying the shape. "So these are for the ones wearing the heavy stuff. The hollow points for the soft ones, the incendiary for equipment, and the rubber when I wanna keep my targets alive?."

"Yes, ma'am. That is the idea. But the rubber points still hurt a lot though, and can still be lethal if you're not careful."

She set the armor-piercing round back into its slot and sat back on the edge of the bed, staring at the open case. Her earlier excitement had shifted into something more fond as she ruminated on the packages in front of her..

"You went and did aaaalll of that, just to give me this absolute banger of a gift.," she said. "Why? I thought you didn't like fighting."

Arno hummed as he tried to articulate his thoughts. "Well, I don't like the idea of violence. But I still feel like I should do my part in making sure the people I care about are safe. I saw you struggle against those Shieldguards last week, you know? I wanted to help you in my own way to make sure that you're prepared next time."

Exusiai's usual bright energy softened for a moment as she looked at him. She set the case down carefully on the bed and pinched his cheek.

"You saw that, huh…" She let out a short breath. "Yeah. Those shieldguards were a real problem. My usual rounds barely scratched them and I couldn't stop them before they closed in on Federico and I. If Mostima hadn't stepped in when she did, We'd have been seriously hurt." She glanced back at the ammunition case, then at Arno again. "So you went through all that trouble—asking around in circles, building these by hand—just because of that?"

She picked up one of the armor-piercing rounds again and turned it slowly between her fingers. "Most people would just tell me to be more careful. You actually made something that might keep me from ending up in that spot again." A small, genuine smile pulled at her mouth. "That's… really something. Thank you."

Arno nodded as they both packed the bullets back into the case. He also went on to show her how to use the speedloader he included in the maintenance kit.

She leaned forward again and started counting the rounds in each section. "How many of each?"

"For each bullet type, I made about 300 rounds each." Arno casually said as Exusiai gaped at him from the side. "What? You use a submachine gun. Considering how many shots you fire off in each battle, I'd be surprised if you didn't go through these in a few afternoons!"

"I'm not gonna waste these on some slugs or dumb robots, Arno! Oh my gosh, how long did it take you to make these?"

"About…a day I think? I took breaks in between and actually watched a movie when I was doing it so I wasn't exactly just slaving away at this. They're made to be used in combat anyways, so I fully expect you to use them up in no time."

"I'm just gonna save them for special occasions then! What the fuck, Arno?! You didn't have to go that far!" Exusiai pouted, concerned that one of her best buddies spent so much time making these.

"Of course I did. They're there to make sure you're safe and well during a mission, Exia. I can always make more if you need it anyway."

"B-but…"

Arno flicked her in the nose, making her yelp and hold her nose in pain. "Look, Exia. I chose to make these for you, okay? It's no biggie for real."

"Okay, If you say so…" The sankta sighed as she gave up.

She closed the lid of the case carefully, then opened it again just to look at the rows once more. "The cleaning kit already would have been a great gift. This is on another level." She tapped the side of the case. "I am going to need time to test these properly. Gonna start writing down some notes and take pictures to compare stuff."

"Happy hunting, then." Arno said. "Start with the hollow points first as they should be the most similar to what you have right now, then escalate from there. And I suggest not magdumping everything, okay? Wouldn't want you to waste your birthday gift on paper targets, would you?."

Exusiai nodded, still staring at the ammunition. "Does anyone else know you can make these?"

"No. And I would prefer it stays that way. The materials are limited. I cannot produce large amounts, and I do not want questions about where they came from."

"Got it. My eyes only." She closed the case again and rested both hands on the lid. "Thank you. Really. This is one of the best gifts I have gotten."

Arno gave another short nod. "Glad it works for you."

Exusiai stayed seated on the bed, the cleaning kit on one side and the ammunition case on the other. She glanced between them, then back at Arno, already thinking through the first tests she wanted to run.

---

One week later, Exia participated in a mission that took them into a half-collapsed industrial sector on the outskirts of Chernobog. Dust hung in the air as broken concrete and twisted metal constructs littered the ground. Lemuen moved with steady precision on the left flank, sniper rifle ready as she peered at the battlefield from her nest. Operator Executor stayed closer to the melee in his own perch to cover in case enemies catch them unawares. Exusiai took the forward position, acting as a scout to identify threats.

The first group of casters appeared from behind a ruined loading bay. Most carried standard Arts focuses. Two of them, however, were Shielded Senior Casters. Thick slabs of condensed stone rose in front of them, the barriers glowing faintly with sustained Arts. Standard Originium rounds sparked harmlessly off the surface or buried themselves without effect.

Exusiai opened fire first. Her usual ammunition stitched across the lead shield and did nothing useful. The caster behind it barely flinched. She adjusted her aim and tried again, targeting the edges and the caster's exposed shoulder. The rounds still failed to break through.

"Exusiai, fall back," Doctor ordered, voice calm but firm on the comms. "Those barriers are too dense for you to deal with on your own. Regroup with Operators Gavial and Ansel to cover them as they treat the defenders."

Exusiai's finger stayed on the trigger for half a second longer as she considered her options. Leaving here would expose the nearby guards and vanguards to the enemy caster's AOE attacks.

Then she clicked her tongue, unlatched the partially used mag, and slammed a fresh and specially marked one home. The motion was quick and practiced as she raised the gun again.

The first round from the new magazine struck in a flash of yellow.

Instead of a normal spark or crater, the point of impact hissed. A bright orange glow spread outward in a tight circle. The second and third rounds hit within the same area. The stone began to soften. Cracks filled with molten material. The shield's surface sagged and began to glow and smoke.

The Senior Caster behind it shouted in alarm and tried to reinforce the barrier with more stone. Yet it was a futile effort as the redhead peppered his shield with more shots. A section of the shield collapsed inward, turning from solid stone into thick, glowing slag. The molten mass slid down the remaining structure and poured across the caster's arm and side. His screams cut through the open space as he staggered back while trying to get the molten material off his body…only for the rest of his now ruined stone barrier to collapse on top of him.

Meanwhile Exusiai kept firing. More rounds landed and the second Shielded Senior Caster's barrier suffered the same fate a moment later. Stone melted. Slag dripped. Another scream followed. The third followed suit shortly.

Silence ensued as both sides processed what just happened.

For a short stretch of seconds, no one on either side moved. Lemuen's eyes stayed locked on the melting barriers as Federico analyzed the weapon Exusiai held, trying to figure out what caused the anomaly. He and everyone who has worked with the redheaded Sankta know that she has no access to her own brand of Fire Arts, and she doesn't seem to be using the typical fire bombs that Operators such as FireWhistle or Tachanka use.

(The aforementioned Rainbow Operator was currently taking a video of Exusiai's shooting aftermath and was going to discuss what he saw with the others when they got back. His partner Iana was also taking notes on what she saw to corroborate the event.)

Then the rest of the enemy casters and even nearby snipers started fleeing. Nobody wanted to be on the receiving end of something that could render their already meager cover completely useless at best, to deathtraps at worst.

Exusiai lowered her gun. The barrel still radiated faint heat from use and the ordinance. She ejected the magazine, checked the remaining rounds, and swapped back to the partial magazine that had her normal bullets.

Lemuen approached first. Her steps were steady, rifle still held loosely at her side. She looked at the two casters who had collapsed under the melting slag, then at her sister.

"El," she said, voice even. "Those barriers should not have failed that quickly. What ammunition were you using?"

Exusiai kept her eyes on the bodies for a moment longer before glancing over. She gave a light shrug. "Just trying something new from R&D. Still testing it out to gather data for them to use."

Federico stepped closer, tablet already in hand. His tone stayed flat and precise.

"The observed effect is inconsistent with any standardized round or sanctioned incendiary design currently listed in Laterano or Rhodes Island inventories. The rapid thermal degradation of condensed stone barriers indicates an unconventional payload. It is imperative that you disclose the source and composition of this ordnance. If the performance is reproducible, it would provide a measurable advantage to other firearm-equipped operators."

'Translation: That was cool and we wanna be able to do that too.' Exusiai internally chided.

Exusiai scratched the back of her head and offered a quick, crooked smile. "Whoa, slow down. It's still experimental. I don't even have the full details sorted yet. Just some new rounds I've been playing around with. Nothing official."

Lemuen's gaze stayed on her. "El. You changed magazines and the next shots turned solid Arts barriers into slag. That is not 'playing around.'"

"It's not big of a deal. I mean, we've got other casters that can do that too, right?" Exusiai said, already shifting her weight toward the exit path. "Really. I'm still figuring out the best way to use them. Once the team figures out how to make more, I'm sure that they'll come to you guys!"

Federico did not move aside. "Avoidance of relevant operational data is inefficient. If these rounds can reliably defeat reinforced barriers, the information should be logged and evaluated for wider distribution among compatible personnel."

Exusiai's halo flickered once. She suddenly patted her pockets, then pulled out her terminal and stared at the screen with exaggerated focus.

"Oh—look at that. Doctor's calling. Urgent. Gotta go handle it right now. You two finish the sweep without me, okay? Great work today!"

She gave a quick wave, already walking backward toward the extraction point before either of them could respond further. Lemuen watched her go, expression unreadable. Federico made a short note on his tablet and said nothing more.

Exusiai kept walking until she was out of easy earshot, then let out a quiet breath and picked up the pace back to base…completely unaware that her little stint is now part of the rumor mill that circulates among firearm-adjacent using Operators. All with video evidence and witnesses.

It was a few months later where with careful investigation and thorough questioning on certain Operators' accounts did both Lemuen and Team Rainbow (the former taking various precautions in keeping Federico out of the loop) did they uncover the source of the new munitions, much to Exusiai's regret and Arno's chagrin. And a few especially binding contracts later did both groups (the Laterans through the sisters) were given the same ordinance as the apple pie lover.

—------

New Talent Unlocked for Operator Arno!

Adaptive Munitions

• When Team Rainbow Operators and/or Laterano Operators are on the field, these Operators will change ammunition to counter certain enemies.
  • Rubber Bullets: Decrease ATK by 30%, but each attack as a 80% Chance to Stun Target. (Will be used against enemies that have the Unblockable trait, or have a movement speed of A or higher)
  • Incendiary Bullets: Decrease ASPD by 15%, but change ATK type from Phyiscal to Arts, and enemies struck will suffer Burn elemental damage. (Will be used against enemies that have a Damage Reduction trait [Fuck you, Fremont. Block this you geriatric fuck.])
  • Hollow Points: Increase ATK by 35%. Will be the default bullets when Arno is in the squad.
  • Armor Piercing: Reduce Range by 1 Tile, but ignores 70% of targets Armor. (Will be used against Enemies with DEF of B or higher).
• This skill will activate is Arno is on the field, and bullet type will be indicated by the Operator's attack's change of color.
  • Rubber = Red
  • Incendiary = Blue
  • Hollow Points = White
  • Armor Piercing = Black

---

AN: I know that I should've released an actual chapter by this point, but goddamnit I was having way too much fun writing this little Omake chapter. And yes this chapter is canon; just a little bit far into the future.

And as a little tidbit, Executor and Insider have tried to send some of the special ammo back to Laterano for study, yet everytime they're about to send it, it always somehow disappeared. And this leads to them having to ask for more from Lemuen who has sternly told them to stop doing so as the ammo is not infinite, and if there are any more incidents of such happening, they will no longer be given some at all. And so any effort by anyone to try and replicate it (The R&D department have also tried via Team Rainbow, only for them not to have the facilities to be able to do so), end in failure.

Anyway, please enjoy. Like and comment and even add your own omakes if you like.

 

[JustAreader]

...arno is freaking meta defining Jesus, bro is never get power crept lol

Edit

Skill 1 — "Sugarettes"

Auto Recovery / Manual Trigger

Arno takes a slow drag, then exhales a lingering cloud across the battlefield.

Click to shrink...

Also realized this is just like moses and her buffs in limbus lol