Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

Noises. Way too much noise. That's what first went to Shion's mind when she entered the town. It's been way too long since she last heard such a racket. Being a witch with immortality such as herself made her escape this mundane life, yet she was in the country's biggest city trying to find her way to the king's castle. Why, oh why, did she have that bet with her one and only friend, another witch that visited her from time to time when she was bored? And obviously, because she was bored, she always tried her best to annoy Shion.

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"Listen to me, if you lose your bet I'm not asking for anything! Nothing, I promise! And if you win I will not tease you or try to disturb you for the next 100 years!" affirmed the other witch with a smile.

Shion was taken aback, that was too good not to be fishy. Something was amiss so she said, trying to be as emotionless as possible, "Not doing it. There is no way it's a good idea to be at such an advantage. You're trying to screw me I can feel it."

"No, no, no my good friend! I can safely say that you are in no way being led on !" insisted the other witch. "Well, there miiiight be a little something" she then added" instantly answered by Shion "See! I knew it, you're being sneaky !"

"No, no, noooo!" she once again yelled. "Let me tell you what we're betting on at least ?" she now was pulling on Shion's coat with crocodile tears.

"Aaaaaah I can't with you! You're so annoying! Come on spill the bill I want to continue what I started brewing before you came here!" shouted Shion frowning.

The other witch instantly bounced back with a smile, Shion sighed thinking "She always gets me with the fake tears why am I like this...", and started explaining what is on her mind.

"See, this isn't something very hard. Like, you go to the castle for a month and you dare tell me you didn't have fun. If you didn't I win"

Silence fell in the small house of Shion. You could feel the negative thoughts that Shion was emitting. "You want ME, someone that didn't talk to any human being for who knows long, to suddenly live in the most crowded city, no in the CASTLE of the city for a whole month??? What are you, insane? Is this some kind of joke I'm not getting right now ?" She could keep going and going for hours but her friend stopped her.

"You know, it's exactly because it's been so long that I want you to do it. I already arranged things on my own, you know! Why don't you try? Humans nowadays aren't that bad. You should try and get out of your shell, try and do something other than isolate yourself in this small cabin. And if you don't like it you will come back here and promptly tell me and I won't bother you for hundred years! What's a month in your whole life anyway? You've been alive for a thousandfold!"

Shion was sorting things out when she repeated a sentence her friend just blurted. "I already arranged things," she said. "What did she mean by that, don't tell me..."

"What do you mean by "You already arranged things"? Don't tell me they're actually EXPECTING me ???"

"That's exactly what I'm saying" smirked her friend. "Oh and I also told them that one secret you don't want anyone knowing. They're supposed to disclose it in some way you don't even know exists yet because you're oh so recluse dear Shion. Only if you don't show up on time, that is." Shion couldn't believe her ears. "You're telling me I never had a choice and you're just telling me to go there or feel great shame ?"

"Yeah that's about it, we're starting to be on the same wavelength Shion Dear." grinned the witch.

"And what if I still say no? I mean my secret being out is a shame but I won't ever see anyone if I don't move so how does that affect me? I can keep leaving alone for a thousand years and everyone will forget anyway" Proudly said Shion trying to keep her calm.

"Then you give me no choice." Shion didn't have any time to react she felt powder on her body. "WHAT DID YOU DO YOU-mmmm" the other witch put her hand on Shion's mouth to shut her up. "Listen, that's not something that will kill you. This will only force you to go to the city. Come on, don't be a pain and start packing for the castle, and don't try to go against it, you will just regret it at that point if you don't go. Believe me."

"Alright, I will do it. 1 month right? And I can do anything right?"

"Exactly, anything you want! You're starting to be cooperative I thought we would be here for another hour or two!"

"I'm fed up with you right now! I will go to your castle and hide in a piece or something for a month and be done with it! You're unbelievable when you want to know. Remind me why we are friends?"

"Eheh, let's say that I am one sticky witch?"

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Shion sighed. It was three days since it happened and she still couldn't believe she was now in the city and even worse she was told that magic was forbidden. Something about magic being unknown to humans. Shion wondered how she got them to let her roam free for a month if they had no idea who she was to which her friend answered "Well I told them you were my child and that you wanted to see another part of the world and they strongly accepted!" How in hell being her child (the thoughts of this being the case sent a shiver down her spine) was in any way useful?! Is she famous?! Shion had no idea given that she didn't talk about herself when she came, she usually just came unannounced asking a bit about her new work, annoyed her for a bit for her own pleasure, and left as quickly as she came.

After a long time trying to reach the castle, she was finally at the front doors. Guarded by multiple knights in armor something she never ever saw in her life. Were they using steel to make them? Is that what humans were up to these days? Well, she was told to say to a knight who she was and show a piece of paper to prove who she was.

And that's what she did. She talked to the closest man in armor she saw and when he saw the paper he started to lose his composure and he yelled: "MISS SHION IS HERE! I REPEAT MISS SHION IS HERE!". Shion covered her ears thinking "What kind of boorish behavior was that? Yelling so close to someone!"

After that, the same man told her to follow him to meet the king and queen. Shion thought her friend really might be amazing if the first thing she will do in this city is meeting the king.

Quickly after, she was in front of them. The king, most certainly well-aged, not like Shion could talk but her body stopped aging even before her twenties because of her witch power, but she knew that obviously was not the case for him. He was sitting on his throne but looked like a tall man, most certainly 30 or 40 centimeters bigger than her. He had a quite large bear and both this and his hair were white. His somewhat large hands were starting to take Shion's attention when he lifted them starting to talk with his deep voice.

"Welcome, Welcome Miss Murasaki !" loudly started the king. Shion reacted at the fact he called her "Murasaki", being the name of her friend. Well, she guessed she needs to be reminded she is supposed to be her daughter so it makes actual sense...

"So we heard you wanted to discover new lands! It is our pleasure to be able to help the daughter of the most famous merchant there is in this world! (so that's what she is, huh? A merchant? I guess it allows her to not be asked why she is not aging a bit if nobody knows her for too long... Wait isn't that wrong if she is the most famous one? Well I guess I'll ask her in a month...) And with such good timing too! You came right in our most festive month, you must be quite delighted! (yaaay I'm so happy to know this unknown fact...)

Next to him, the queen was looking way younger and more fragile than the king. Shion had no idea how to know the age of someone after such a long lonely time but she could tell the queen was maybe only half the age of the king. And she was maybe only ten centimeters bigger than Shion with beautiful long blonde hair.

Shion eyes traveled through the throne room she was actually in. A large crowd of servants was on her left and right and very few of them were closer to the throne. One, alone, on the right of the king, most likely his personal butler. The last ones were close to the only nonservants still unknown to Shion who they were.

Upon seeing the curious eyes of her newly invited "young" girl, the queen rose and talked attracting the attention of the witch.

"I shall introduce you to our family. These charming persons to my left are the princes and princesses of the country. We hope you get along with them." She then continued introducing one by one everyone.

At first, what shocked Shion was the fact that some of them didn't look a bit like their mother but she ended up just thinking "well that's how humans are" and while the queen was still speaking she started just not caring anymore about the boring family she was talking about.

And that's when it happened, her eyes still wandering she locked eyes with someone. Not one of the prince or princess but a maid. She was the farthest one in the crowd of servants. She was a tiny one almost a head lower than everyone else. "Still might be bigger than me though" was Shion thinking. What first struck her was not her unusual hair color while being beautiful to the witch, but the fact that she looked dead tired to her. Shion could feel it while analyzing her face the best she could.

A lot of thoughts went inside Shion's mind.

. Why would she be here if she is tired? I don't get it, are humans masochists? Or is she forced to be here? Is that what being a servant implies? I know for a fact I wouldn't move an inch if that was me.

. Isn't she awfully far? Being so little wouldn't it be best to be closer so I can see her face better? Maybe she is shy?

. Her hairs are truly beautiful. I had no idea humans managed to have such color in their hair. Except for my hair, I haven't seen anyone else with hair that is not blond or black. So why is she the only one rocking such beautiful blue and pink colored hair?

. I really wonder what's going on with her... I wish the queen actually started talking about her and not the boring kids...

. Wait what am I thinking about ?! Since when THE Shion is interested in a lowly human, a measly servant at that ?!

. And after that train of thought, the maid actually looked up and right at Shion for the first time. She actually looked shocked meeting the witch's gaze and flashed her a small smile making Shion blush a little and stopping her from staring anymore.

Shion heard the voice of the king pronouncing her name and quickly focused again on his talk.

"... and so that's why we will assign you personally a maid for the month you will share with us! Don't worry, we got you the best one we have around and she will show you to your chamber quickly after! Hoping you have a great time around!" ended the king with a big smile on his face.

Huh... A personal maid he says what a great coincidence it would be if the pink-haired one was her personal maid... Wait again why am I wishing for such things ?!

Life doesn't work that way and a tall black-haired woman came to Shion.

"Miss Murasaki, if you would please follow me." curtly said the maid.
How fun my life will be with such an uptight maid yay...

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Konaqua! Minato Aqua is here at your service!

Who am I talking to and who would even care what my name is? Am I starting to become insane from overwork?

I am used to it by now but this time it's starting to exhaust me mentally and physically. Everyone is using me as their slave, giving me their most unwanted work and it's not like I can ever refuse given my situation... Aaaaaaah how I dread this month of festivities, can I even live past this month if I'm tired on the third day?

People always say I'm clumsy when in reality they're always behind my mistakes, not even hiding their misbehaviors or small pranks every day. But I can't do anything about it. That's the sad reality of a friendless newbie young maid.

"Oi! Goofy, come here!" yelled the angry woman

And here it comes, that stupid ugly nickname and that hideous woman trying her best to ruin my life.

She is the reason why my life around is so hard. She came up with the nickname telling everyone I actually "liked" it and didn't mind them using it.

She is the one that first meddled with my work. That first knocked me to the ground with things in my hands. The first that created rumors about me. That first gave me more work than intended.

But I can't say a thing. Why? Because she is the most liked maid in the castle. The maid that everyone likes and looks up to. She isn't evil, to begin with, at first but... yeah things happened.

"We are expecting the arrival of the Murasaki daughter today. You will prepare her room and makes sure everything is the best of the best. If the guest is not happy, It'll all fall on you and you only." flatly said the tall black-haired maid.

"Wait, weren't you the one supposed to..." Aqua didn't finish her sentence knowing the answers already. She sighed and decided to head straight to the room the other maid told her was supposed to be given to the new guest.

And so, the young maid went and prepared the room the whole morning. Time passed and she felt happy with the work done, thinking she could go and take a quick break to eat something she hadn't done yet today. When she exited the room, she started hearing noises coming all around. "The guest arrived! Everyone is to join the throne room at once!" And now her idea of eating was gone. She kinda started to hate the guest at this moment, giving her more work and preventing her from eating.

Aqua arrived in the throne room. Her bully, the tall black-haired woman, quickly noticed her and groaned a bit at the sight quickly running to her side.

"I didn't expect you to be here. Did you at least finish the room? It better be perfect when I enter it later. Now come on and hurry up we don't want the guest to see your ugly face, you will go where she can see as little of you as possible." What's wrong with my face? I started thinking. But I don't have the might to argue with her and just nod and run to the back of the hall. The guest didn't arrive in the room yet. I guess we will have to stay until she arrives and leaves... I'm hungry and tired, what a bother this guest is really...

Five minutes or so later and the guest is here. A slender grayish-haired girl with incredibly attractive orange and green eyes. She wore a wonderful black and purple dress with cute ribbons all across it along with 2 in her hair. How cute she was, you wouldn't expect such a girl to travel by herself. Hmmm? Did I just call a woman I've never seen in my life cute? Well, let's not think about it anymore I won't have anything to do with her I'm just a maid and a lowly one at that.

Time passed and I did my best to stay awake and standing trying not to yawn. I don't want to get fired because of such a stupid reason. I think the queen is talking about the royal family right now, I haven't been listening at all since she first started talking. Why would I care? I wonder if the guest is listening to it all.

I decided to take a glance at her and that's when our gaze met. Huh? Is she looking at me? Better fake a smile, we don't know how mean she could be if she sees me being cold to her.

And when I looked and smiled at her she hastily turned her head away and blushed a little.

What the hell was that? Isn't she too cute? I wanted to giggle but I know people would report me if I did though so I did my best to stay stoic as much as possible.

Quickly after, the guest was now approached by the old vixen. I decided to use that opportunity to try and eat before she forced me to do something not destined for me again.

I felt the gaze of the newly arrived girl burn into me while passing near them but decided to ignore it for now, trying not to see the person near her as much as possible.

Chapter Text

Urgh. The maid finally left me after asking her so many times to just leave me alone but she kept pestering me again and again. In the end she ended up leaving me alone after I blatantly lied about being sleepy because of the travel. She insisted to get me dinner before sleeping but I just couldn't bother seeing her more and told her to absolutely not come back before tomorrow early in the morning. Something that bothered me was how much she asked me if anything was not to my liking in the chamber every 5 minutes. I don't really understand why she kept being so fixed on having a negative comment. Isn't it her work? Is she a perfectionist? Is that why she absolutely wanted me to say if something was amiss?

Eh... Too bothersome to think about, why should I care? 

Now that the pest is away, let's have fun. She said magic was forbidden but she never said I couldn't use it if nobody notices me, right? And if someone notices, I'll deal with it when the time comes.

Tadaaaa, I'm in the inside garden and completely invisible. Cool, right? That's one of the potions that only yours truly can make! (Or so, I believe I don't know anyone, what if It's an easy potion that everyone knows of, I'd be so ashamed to boast about it.) Oh, by the way, I managed to sneak my potions in using a dimensional space to store them. 

Anyway, the last time I used this potion it lasted for 6 hours, should be fine to not spook the maid early tomorrow...

I wonder if there is anything interesting to do in the castle or even in the city. I know I won't be able to live a shut-in life because of the stupid maid they assigned me so I better find something to pass time. It's gonna be a long month...

Thoughtlessly walking inside the castle trying to find something to excite me, I finally locked my eyes on something. The dual-colored maid I had my sight on in the throne hall. 

Closing up to her I start thinking about what I should do now that I see her up close. I now see that she is only a mere three centimeters or so taller than me. How infuriating! Or so I thought until I remembered the sad and tired look she was giving earlier.

Should I add more to her plate? I may be a recluse but I'm no monster.

That's when I heard another familiar voice in the end of the corridor. The instant the voice was heard, I could see the maid stiffen instantly and look paler. The interlocutor, what I recognized to be my personal maid, started screaming "GOOFY! Come here and be quick, I don't have all your free time!" making the maid run as fast as she could to join her. She then pointed her junior to enter the room close to them and promptly did it. 

Being invisible doesn't mean I can go through walls or doors or even humans! So I entered the room before she did managing to squeeze my way thanks to my slender body. Ah, I didn't say it earlier but for the potion to work I need to be fully naked. I'm actually following a girl I barely know fully naked in a castle and this is my first day of interaction with humans in hundred years. Is this considered creepy? Beh, who cares. 

Before me happens something I didn't predict one bit. The gentle-looking little maid I was following out of curiosity was being reprimanded. 

"What a useless girl you are! Our estimated guest kept yelling at me about how bad looking her room was! I had to get on my knees to stop her from directly going to see the king and fire me! Do you believe it?! How can you so bad ?! And that broken vase this afternoon can I assume it's your work too?! Who else but you?!"

I heard someone starting to sob. I almost wanted to jump in and defend her when I saw the older one starts to rise her hand to slap the face of the younger.

But she stopped herself. Following with "No, I won't hit you. Don't want to touch your gross face. I will give you a punishment tomorrow. You're free to go now and hurry up I don't want to see your face even 5 more seconds!" 

Still sobbing, the maid ran to the door to open it and got out as quickly as she could. Wish I could follow her but she closed the door behind her way too fast for me to do it. Now I am alone with the ugly bitch in this room waiting for her to go out. Which she did pretty much instantly not even bothering herself to close it. Kinda arrange me so I won't complain about that one.

Now what? Do I go after the young maid and start saying that she didn't do anything wrong? When I don't even know where she went off or still being invisible for at least 3 hours? How do I even explain to her why I know she was the one to do my room or that she did nothing wrong? Talking with humans is so tiring. Why would I help her, she is nothing to me. But I can't stop thinking about her now that I saw this scene. First of all, I hate discrimination. Who doesn't? I'm not trying to find a reason to talk to her at all. No way. 
But how do I find her anyway? I don't know if I could even find my chamber right now. So a girl that could be anywhere in any room or corner of the castle?

Why did I find her not even 5minutes after deciding to see if I could miraculously do it? And who cries under a tree where everyone can see? Is she stupid? I decide to come a bit closer to her and use magic that allows me to mark her for 24 hours. That way, I can leave her alone and find her when I'm visible, now I have 3hours to find a way to trick her into believing I learned everything I peeped on without magic. How bothersome...

Three hours later and I am in front of a door in what I believe to be the servant wing. I'm starting to feel nervous, what am I a teenager in love talking to her crush? I'm almost a thousand years old why can't I act like my age...

I knock. No response. But I sensed her moving a little bit with my mark so I know she isn't sleeping. Should I intimidate her a bit to force her to open the door? I don't want to waste time, let's just go with it.

"This is Murasaki Shion speaking. I know you're in here. Please open the door I have things to talk with you about."

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I cried for at least 2 hours in the garden. I know I'll get in trouble tomorrow for that but who cares, I'm in trouble anyway. I'm starting to get really weak if I'm crying so long for this little. I wonder if i'll end up fired because of the guest. I didn't expect her to be so capricious and here I thought I did good work on her room and that might make me able to breathe a little. 

I'm back in my room. If you can call that a room. Enough place for a bed, 2 of my uniforms, and never used clothes to go outside on days off. Never used them because I never get a day off. Oh, and pajamas. At least I don't sleep in the nude when it's cold. Not like it's going to be cold anytime soon.

I quickly put them on and jump in bed trying to go to sleep as fast as possible.

But I find myself unable to do so. What's going to happen to me tomorrow? I can't stop thinking about it...

That's when I heard it. A knock on my door. At this hour? Can this day be even worse? I'll try to ignore it maybe they will go away. Good idea.

Twenty seconds passed and I sighed thinking they went away. But I heard it.

"This is Murasaki Shion. I know you're in here. I need to talk to you."

I think my face went pale and my stomach started to hurt. Isn't that the worse scenario possible?

I slowly open the door with a little bit of nervousness and as soon as she could put her fingers through the hole, she did. Forcing the door to instantly open and now we're head to head. This is the first time we're so close to each other and I can say there is something about her different from the others... She is charming. But what am I thinking about?! She is here to kill me! I'm sure of it! I don't know how or why she knows about me already but I'm done for!

She starts looking around my small place. Silently but with a deadly glare. My heart is pounding hard. There is no way it can pound harder.

Suddenly she starts speaking with a calm tone. "Is this where you sleep?"

"Y-yeah what about it?" I managed to answer.

"Follow me. I don't like it here."

"I-I can't. Servants are forbidden to roam free during the night."

"And are servants authorized to refuse the demand of a special guest?"

Aren't I the loser either way in this case? Why does it always turn like this...

"O-Okay please lead the way, Miss..."

"Actually I changed my mind. Please lead me to my chamber. It took me an unbelievably long time to find it last time, I believe you will gain us time. Come on, let's go... Wait, I don't know your name, mind telling me before?"

Huh? She is asking me my name. A lowly servant like me? Maybe I should just give her that stupid nickname they stuck to me, she will be fine with it.

" Everyone calls me Goofy hahaa. -I laughed nervously Please feel free to do it too."

"No way. Are you mocking me? I already know about that stupid nickname. I'm asking for your real name here girl, you know? Are you calling THAT yourself?"

"H-Huh... I'm Minato Aqua, nice to meet you.." I stuttered taken aback by the woman in front of me.

"Hmm, hmm! Good, way better now! Well then, let's go to my room now Aqua!" she smiled brightly pointing towards her with a little chuckle.

Is she really my enemy? At least she doesn't look the part... How long has it been since I last heard my name from the mouth of another person? I can't remember but.. Somehow I felt a bit warmer hearing it coming from her mouth.

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"Ooooooh! We're already here! You're such a great guide Aqua! Good job, It would have taken me much longer to find it alone, you know?! This castle is so big it's head-splitting!" she kept talking to me with that smile she never left since hearing my name.

"Alright come in little Aqua! Take a seat I have a lot of things to ask you!" shouted my host while closing her door and quickly running to sit on her bed.

"O- Okay.." I anxiously answered while sitting down on the ground.

"Huh? Are you stupid? Who sits on the floor? I told you to take a seat you know" she patted her right on the bed.

Stupid? Is she going to keep calling me that all night? How rude is this... Little girl. Yes, little girl because I am definitely taller! She has no right to call me little right?!?

And so I rose and sat on her left. Because I wanted to see her reactions to my disobeying. If I'm screwed anyway so be it.

She giggles when I sat. Huh? What's wrong with her I didn't expect that at all!

"Disobeying a special guest, huh? Feeling rebellious today lil Aqua?"

Again, my size. Does she have no shame at all?

"Ok! It's time for our little game of quiz! You have to answer Yes or No, nothing else ok?"

"Y-yes..?" What? A quiz? Game?? Is she a kid that just wants to torment me for a bit?

"Question number 1 for Minito Aqua!

Is Aqua the maid who worked on my room this morning?"

"Y-yes."

Here it is. My descent to hell.

"Two. Does Aqua present here think she did a good job on the room?"

"... No," I said with pain in my heart.

"Interesting. What makes you think you didn't do a good job? This is the third question by the way."

What? I can't say yes or no to this...

"Becau.."

"BUBUUP that's not yes or no Stupid!"

"..."

"Can't answer, huh? Well fine. Next. Four. Why are you so small?"

"..."

"Again no answer? Five, how did you get that hair color? I want the same it looks so good together!"

"..." I still refused to answer and continued to stare at the ground but this time a small blush was visible on my face. I tried my best to hide it, this is the first time someone complimented my hair in this country even as a joke.

"Six. Can you smile at me pleaaase? Your smile back in the throne room was so cute it was the only thing I remember!"

"..."

"..."

"..."

"..."

I can't escape myself from this one, eh? I guess this one can be answered hence why she is waiting. She is getting on my nerves. Insulting me and belittling me and now spitting fake compliments on my face. She is missing something for real. Well, let's see her reaction if I refuse.

"No. I..."

"BUBUUU. First of all, I is not a word you can say Stupid, I told you the rules clearly stupid, what are you? Stupid? Yeah, that must be it. And a small one at that. How so small I feel so bad for you being that stupid and that small hahaha! Couldn't be me, the gifted one, perfect body, high intellect, coming from a good family compared to you I'm sooo great. Stupid. Idiot. Stupid. Stupid. Stup... "

" AAAAAAAH I can't take it anymore! If I'm getting fired for such a stupid thing I'll at least tell you my two pieces Miss "Perfect Body". WHAT perfect body are you talking About?! There is nothing to see here! Nothing! You look like a child! Even better, you're the size of one! You're talking about my size? Have you no shame? You're smaller than me! I can't believe you! And what about me being stupid? Where is it coming from?! You ARE the stupid one! Bullying a poor maid that already has enough on her plate!

That's what someone "Stupid" would do! And even playing with her feelings saying fake compliments! You're the lowest of the lowest! Scum of this earth! And I thought I knew it already before finding you! I'm out and you can say whatever you want tomorrow I DON'T CARE."

It felt so good. Finally unleashing everything at someone. She should have done it way sooner. But now it's time to cram

She walked to the door when she heard laughing. Laughing?! Did I make her disjunct?

" Aqua I'm so proud of you for talking your first words! You're the best I can't anymore my sides hurt from laughing! I'm so glad I pushed you to the Edge!"

"What are you talking about? Proud of me? My first words? I talked the whole time I've been here."

"No, no Aqua. You didn't talk. At least the Aqua I wanted to speak to didn't. Hey hey, I'm sorry I talked about your height and your stupidity I didn't think it one bit. Come back here, I promise I won't bite."

"No way, I'm going back to my bed, good night."

Huh? She grabbed me by the wrist and easily pinned me on her bed. Now locking my legs and arms with hers.

"I didn't want to do this but you force me to."

I can't move an inch. How strong is she with that tiny body of hers?

"What are you going to do to me? I don't understand, I really don't..."

"Me? That's an easy one. Now that the real Aqua I'm looking for is out I'll ask her the same questions.

" Again with your game... What are you, a brat?" she chuckled.

" I much prefer this Aqua you know. Now let's begin! Did Minato Aqua prepare my room this morning?"

"Yes."

"and Does Minato Aqua think she did a good job this morning?"

"Yes." this time I didn't lie. Doesn't change anything anyway.

"Ooooh, oooh would you look at that! An answer changed when the real Aqua surfaced. Paint me colored. Next! Do you think yours truly Murasaki Shion was pleased with this room?

"No."

"No? You didn't do your homework right clever girl, I, Murasaki Shion can pleasantly affirm the room to my liking! Good job girl, you deserve a reward!" and she patted my head. What? Did she like it? And she's "rewarding" me??? What's going on...

"Number four. Do you think I'm lying when I say I liked the room?"

"Yes." You are lying if you didn't lie why would I get punished?!?

"Poor Aqua failed again! You're now 50/50 on your test be careful you might fail! Maybe you will get it with the next question!

Do you think someone is lying to you?

" YES!"I shouted.

" You're right! Back on track! Can you keep going with this one?!? Is the liar...Murasaki Shion perhaps!?"

" Yes."

"Oh no, I feel so sad being trusted so little. We didn't even know each other 1 hour ago and I never did anything to you... Unlike a certain someone... Who might that be?!? And this question is special, you don't have to say Yes or No!"

Someone that did anything to me? She doesn't mean I'm just...

".. That one maid that everyone loves but hates me to the bone, trying to make my life hell, and that was put as your personal maid? "

"See, you're not stupid, you're one clever cute girl!" and she patted me again.

I started to like the feeling of her stroke against my head... Wait no I should not think about this right now!

"And me knowing that the one who will make the king fire me is not you but her should affect me in any way?

"Where did my cute clever maid go she was here just 10 seconds ago I swear! Well, beat it I will help the idiot one for once. If I'm not your enemy in this story and not an inconnu, then what am I?"

The only answer is an ally. But why should she be my ally? She said herself that one hour ago we didn't know each other apart from a glance in the hall.

"I don't believe you one bit. Why would you be my Ally? Are you taking pity on me? Why do you know all that? As far as I know, nobody would give you my room chamber. And you couldn't know about my situation if you didn't hear it. Just who are you?"

"Ooooh, here comes all the good question at once! You thought it out! Would you believe me if I said it was all magic?" she laughed hard. "No way you would, right? Then what do you think it is? How did I manage all that and why am I helping you... Hmm, such a hard question. But you gave me an easy one out of pity at the end eh? Thank you! Ahem, who am I? I am Murasaki Shion, daughter of a merchant in research of novelty in my life trying to find interesting gems I can't find anywhere else! And among the crowd of boorish people, I saw one. A cute little pink and blue-haired girl looked so sad but still managed to glance at me with a sweet small smile besides that. Yeah, no way I leave her alone with her harasser. Now let's end it here and if you don't believe my words today believe them tomorrow. You need sleep and comfort. Ah, you're sleeping in this bed by the way no way you're going back to your filthy old room with that decrepit bed. "she added.

I had a hard time swallowing her whole speech at once but I didn't have the might to keep arguing with her anymore.

" There is no way a servant would be authorized to sleep in a room like this. You will be obliged to see me go back to that decrepit bed for tonight, miss Murasaki."

"Hahaha, and there is no way a servant is authorized at this hour on this floor. Want me to scream real quick to see what happens, miss Minato?"

That last bit irritated me, why is she talking to a servant like that? It's almost like she isn't what she says she is, always wanting to be my equal not caring about our ranks... Yeah, right she is just a brat playing around with me.

"If I'm not around tomorrow morning I'm dead to them no matter the reason... I beg you to let me leave for the night."

" No can do, Aqua. You stay here. And I'm going to change into my pajamas, if you're not tucked in bed before my return you're not dead to them tomorrow morning but in thirty minutes. Got it?"

"...At your service."

She then left for the washroom. I evaluated my situation but... If I'm gone either way, why would I refuse to sleep in such a big and luxurious bed? It looks like paradise... Let me just try it for a bit.

Definitely paradise. That bed was made by a professional I can feel it! Oh, right it's me Eheh...eh..ee...

.

.

"I'm back Aqua! You better still be here!"

No sound. The audacity of the girl. You will see it tomorrow.

Hmm? Oooooh. I guess it works better if she just is already asleep in my bed like a good girl...

WHO AM I KIDDING? AM I CRAZY? How many laws did I break in half a day?! And I thought I'd just live in a corner for a month and be done with it?!

I used magic. 3 times. 4 times even, with the very quick use of superpower to pin her down.

I'm forcing an innocent girl into my bed she is forbidden to be.

I blurted to the same girl I'd help her out, that I knew everything thanks to magic (hopefully she didn't believe it one bit), multiple times did attempts to flirt with her(was that my type all along?? How could I know the only person I talked to in 500 years is an old baba!) trying to see if she bites the bait.

What's worse, oooh what could be worse? You bet. I had fun doing all that. I will lose that stupid bet! I spent 500 years creating the persona of a lonely witch to lose it in 6 hours to a human in her twenties! How shameful could I be?!
Aaaaaaaaah... Get it together Shion you can't be like that anymore tomorrow ok? Breath in. Breath out. No more tomorrow. You help out that girl. Get rid of the old bitch. No more maid with you. You're free to do what you want with nobody in your way anymore! Easy right?

I kinda remember the hour the maid said she would wake me up. I need to be up just barely before she comes if I want everything to go smoothly.

Chapter Text

The plan is simple. We enter the throne room and I use my magic to get the maid to spill the truth about her misconduct. Easy, no second guessing. This witch is a genius. She grinned, thinking about her perfect plan with no faults.

Knock knock. "Master, I'm opening the door." It's the maid. Let's use Murasaki Shion's 500 years of acting training!

Wait, when did I start calling myself Murasaki, huh? She wanted to slap herself because of these thoughts but focused on her plan again instead.

Due to an inquiry, Shion made all of the staff head toward the throne room already.

Aqua is still in her pajamas with a flustered look thinking about Shions earlier actions. Cute almost leaves Shion's lips. The other servant looks perfectly calm, hiding any emotion going through her head. "Not cute" this time Shion fails to hide her thoughts, but it seems like no one noticed.

"Murasaki Dear! I didn't expect you to ask for a meeting on the first day among our walls! Hohoho! What could be the issue? Are these two maids the cause of your problem?" he started the conversation.

"King. Good morning to you, and I must say you're a wise one! Yes, these maids are the reason I came here today. I'll let you know I find life in this castle quite pleasing, but I can't help but find a tiny thorn in my side. You see, THIS maid is not deserving to be by your side!"

The place fell silent for a second. The idea of Shion pointing towards the tall proper maid known for her work ethic and not the tiny, clumsy (cute) one looking like a mess who just woke up, bewildered, even shocked, everyone present.

The first one to break the silence is the freshly revealed culprit.

"W-W-What are you talking about?! When I entered your room you told me we had to see the king to punish a maid who defied orders and entered your accommodation without consent?!" she enquired.

Shion tilts her head and genuinely asks "Yeah, you. Who else could it be?"

Irritated, "T-The dumb-looking maid at your left of course!!" is the answer Shion received.

Aqua squeals a little after having heard the blatant insult towards her. She looks like a lost baby animal right now. How cute invades Shion's thoughts however the one who defends her is not Shion but the king.

"Servant! How dare you shout and insult someone in front of your king? I humbly ask Miss Murasaki to keep talking and finish her complaint. Everyone is forbidden from talking if I don't ask them to." The culprit is not the only one who starts to get irritated. The monarch, clueless about what is going on, shows his discontent.

"With pleasure, your majesty. I accuse the maid standing there of bullying her juniors, forcing them to work in her place, breaking valuable items as she pleases, and even stealing some. As for proof, well, you just have to ask her yourself, your highness will be surprised after hearing the response"

The king raises an eyebrow, "Asking the suspect? Not the girl you have been blocking from view? Will she not just lie her way out of trouble even if she is guilty?"

"I assure you, your majesty, that maid will be completely honest and confess her sins. Isn't that right?"

The maid nods. Aware that she isn't authorized to speak yet.

"Alright. I allow you to speak and answer my questions. Are you bullying your juniors and forcing them to work while you're taking it easy?"

"Yes my majesty." a dumb look starts to spread across the old maid's face. She must be wondering why she answered honestly.

The king frowned. "Oh? And what about breaking and stealing my property? Is that also part of your evil ploys?"

"Yes." Now she looks pale, starting to wonder what is happening to her. Shion received a mean look which she answered with a smirk. You're not staying as my personal maid, no way I live for a month with someone as nasty as you.

Trembling furiously, the king shouts "Are you taking me for a fool?!"

"Hell yes, I do" answered the maid.

Ooooooh I wasn't expecting that one, whatever, works for me.

"GUARDS! Arrest this fool at once! She will get a trial at a later date." Instantly an army of soldiers rushes toward the culprit. Shion grabbed Aqua by the wrist and takes three steps backward as cautiously as possible. Feeling Aqua gazing at her she turns and smiles.

"Didn't I tell you to believe in me?" she whispered to Aqua.

"Miss Murasaki, I have no idea how you discovered all of this nor how you did it so fast but you have piqued my interest. Your presence here might spice things up." he started laughing vigorously.

"Huh... Maybe hahaha?" laughing nervously at the king's casual attempt to lighten the mood.

I don't want to "spice things up". Nope, let me leave and live my reclusive life. One day was already too much.

Shion turns away and tries to excuse herself, thinking her work here is done.

The following sentence from the king freezes her in place and makes her abandon that line of thought instantly.

"That maid was the one we designated as the one who would serve you, right? I can't just leave someone as important as you unattended, dear Shion."

"Y-You know, I can do just fine by myself hahaha..."

"No can do Miss. And you know what? Don't you have the perfect chambermaid next to you? Wouldn't she be the best servant now that she owes you? What do you think young one, are you up to the task? You are permitted to talk, don't worry."

And thus, Shions face contorted into fear. Aqua, you're not stupid, I did horrible things to you yesterday, you don't want me to do it every day right?! Wait, if I'm stuck with a maid anyways, wouldn't Aqua be the best?

Aqua didn't bother thinking too much about Shions attempts to dissuade her. How could she understand that trainwreck in front of her anyway? She was more socially inept than herself!

"M-My Majesty, It would be a great pleasure to serve as Miss Murasaki's personal maid, it is an honor to be entrusted with this task."

Shion fell to her knees upon hearing that answer. I'm stuck with a maid anyways... Here goes my free life.
"Perfect! Young maid, what is your name?"

Aqua flinched. She won't call herself Goofy anymore, right? Not to the king. She isn't the brightest but she is not dumb either.

"I-I'm G-Go.."

AAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAH IDIOT!

Still on the ground, Shion quickly bounces back to cover Aqua's mouth with her hand and answers the king herself.

"The maid's name is Minato Aqua, Sir. I thank you for bestowing me with a maid of such high quality. I will take care of her during my stay ohohoh!"

"Hahaha, you're a funny one Murasaki Dear! She is the one who will take care of you!"

Shion turned her face away to hide her embarrassment, ears tinted slightly red because of her spitting such idiocy in front of a king.

"You may take your leave! I will ensure that you will have a good time among our walls from now on!"
"Y-Yes. Good day to you, my Majesty. Come on Aqua we're going."

"Y-Yes master!"

A big smile could be seen on Aqua's face. She is happy from the bottom of her heart, even though Shion made the assumption that her new maid disliked her.

"Oh. Don't start calling me Master. I don't like that. You call me Shion. It's an order, by the way, don't start arguing."

"Y-Yes! Master Shion!"

Another sigh. "No master! Idiot!"

They keep on walking for who knows long and whenever Shion turned to look at Aqua she had that stupid grin on her face. If she was a dog, her tail would be wagging like crazy.

A storm of contradictory thoughts invaded Shion's mind.

What do I do with her?

Do I find a way to get rid of her? I don't want to.

If I do, they will assign me another maid. I think I'd hate it even more.

No matter what, I think they won't leave me alone. Do I want to be alone that desperately?

I'll think about it later. I'm tired right now but I can't just go and sleep I need to take care of my newly obtained maid.

"Oi Aqua. Lead me to your room."

"What for, Mas-...Shion?" she blushed hearing her name, intriguing Shion.

"We're picking up your belongings to put them in my room of course, what else?"

"H-H-Huuuuuuuh???"

"Pfft." Shion couldn't help chuckling at the face Aqua is making right now.

"In your room? But why?"

"How else are you going to stay in my room if you don't have your possessions?"

"A-And why are you assuming that I want to stay in your room?! Aren't we going too fast?!"

"Too fast for what exactly? I'd say we're walking at a very slow pace right now. I want to hurry up and take a nap already. I didn't sleep much this night. I don't know what you are thinking about but you better hope you're up to the task of staying with me at all times, if I can't have my tranquility I'm going to make you work for it!"

Aqua clears her throat. "Alright, Master. If that's the case you don't need to bother coming with me. I'll be right back in your room with my clothes. If you would excuse me now MASTER."

Shion finds Aqua's sudden change of behavior strange, calling her master again after just stopping to do so. Whatever, she takes up her offer and goes to her room without a second thought, finally she will get her much-needed nap.

.

.

Aqua quietly sat on her small bed, her clothes folded in her arms.

For someone who calls me stupid so often she sure is a daft one herself. Am I bothering her now that I am her maid? After pulling that stunt I thought she would propose to make me her maid. Wasn't that her goal all along? Did I misread something? She didn't look happy one bit when he entrusted me to her. Oh but she wants me to live in her room? And to call her by her name? She DID get rid of the biggest threat to me in the castle and will keep the other ones in check... In a way, she is the best thing that happened to me since starting to work here. I won't tell her that though! Never in my life will I admit it to her! I guess I should apologize for yesterday at least... I never believed her until she didn't point me as the culprit... I don't know how to feel about her. Grateful? Indifferent? Am I disappointed at her reaction to the king? Or happy that she is still accepting me? I want to know more about her. I will take this opportunity to find out more about her. What she likes, what she hates, what she eats, if she likes or hates me.

Aqua knows it is about time to leave this room. Only for a month, nevertheless she has to go.

Only for a month... No, I have a whole month to learn all about Shion! Aqua pumps herself up thinking about how to be Shion's dream maid.

Upon entering her chamber, her eyes widened. What a scatterbrain she is. Shion fell asleep on the couch leaving a note to Aqua telling her to "use the bed if you're tired Aqua ~" Pfft Aqua chuckles. I'm just your maid. Please sleep in your bed if you are tired! Do you not know about hierarchy?

Closing the distance between the two, Aqua is now crouched before her.

Aqua wanted to poke her cheeks but the thought of waking Shion up early made her stop and look like an idiot with a finger raised in contemplation.

"Eek!" surprised, Aqua couldn't contain herself and a sound left her lips.

Shion grabbed her hand. Is she awake? No, she most likely isn't given her sleeping expressions.

Aqua tries to escape her grip but couldn't. How come I can't outpower her? I should have more strength than her... She will think I'm a weirdo if she wakes up now.

The maid decided to sit for a bit, starting to feel her legs hurt. Believing in her willpower to stay awake she decides to lie down next to her and think things through.

Thirty seconds pass and she promptly joins Shion in dreamy lands.

.

.

What's going on? I went back to my room and decided to take a nap on the couch deliberately leaving the bed for her so why is she sleeping next to me? Isn't she uncomfortable?

Shion tries to sit up silently, without much success because her hand is being used as a pillow.

Ah. I won't be able to sneak away like that. With that position, I'll have to either wait for her to wake up or wake her up myself. How could I wake up such a cute little thing though?

No choice. It might displease Shion to wake her up when she looks so happy sleeping but she has to.

"Oi, Aqua. Wake up."

"Hmmm" is the only response after the first tentative try.

Not going to be an easy match, I see. Then don't mind me if I take this opportunity to tease you a bit.

"Aqua, wake up. It's time" This time Shion pat Aqua's head.

But the pink-haired girl is still not waking up. She looks even happier sleeping now.

Let's take drastic measures then.

With an evil grin, Shion leans dangerously close to Aqua's ear and starts whispering.

"You're such a cutie when you sleep, Aqua. But you're even cuter when I can see those eyes of yours. Come on, get up."

Shion got back to her initial position and decides that peace might not be the best solution after all. Being gentle will not wake her up.

I'm sorry Aqua, I'm at my wit's end here. No more sweet talk. Feel the wrath of your (not so) angered Master!

Shion is now pinching Aqua here and there. Starting with the cheeks and quickly moving to the earlobes and her sides. Whatever is in sight receives her wrath.

Well, almost anything. Shion's not the kind of person who will go for sensitive zones if the other side is not willing to.

Not like I ever had someone like that before...

This strategy proves to be very effective. Blearily opening her eyes, Aqua looks around. That confusion quickly morphs into anger however, because Shion did not cease her tickling.

"Oi! Stop it!"

"Sorry sorry, the gentle way didn't work. You were sleeping way too deeply using my hand as a pillow you know~. Didn't know you had it in you to be so bold~" teased Shion.

"H-Hey! It's your fault! You greedily grabbed my hand while sleeping! I swear!"

"Yes yes, and you were randomly by my side when I grabbed it, right? Even though I gave you a bed to sleep in, my my did u want to be by my side so badly?"

Aqua turns her face away, her ears tinted red. How cute. Unfortunately for you my dear Aqua, I never let your hand go.

Shion pulled on Aqua's hand, making it impossible for the girl to flee the scene.

Now face to face she continued teasing Aqua.

"Come on Aqua, didn't I catch you RED-HANDED here?" sneered Shion "Say, Aqua, don't you like me too much? It's only been a few hours since I told you to stay with me and you're already trying to sleep next to me?~"

Oops. I wanted to keep going but that look in her pink eyes tells me she is going to snap. Took you long enough to satisfy me here, Aqua.

"AAAAAAAAAAH I can't take it anymore! I told you you were the one who took my hand! While we're at it, you're the one forcing me to stay in your room, randomly helping me out, and calling me "cutie"! Should I add that you want me to call you by your name? Don't you know what a servant is?! I'm UNDER you, an inferior, so please stop messing with me! Or maybe, you are the one who likes me too much, MASTER?"

Shion, trying to find the right words to diffuse the bomb called Aqua, was about to say something when Aqua's brief moment of indecision ends.

"No, I guess you don't, given how sad you were when the king told you. You're so weird. Acting kind before me but dejected otherwise. I hate this part of you. I hate you. I'm quitting!"

This time Aqua manages to free herself from my grip and runs away.

Ah. Did I tease her too much? Humans are so hard to deal with.

Fortunately, Shion realizes the marker she used yesterday was still set in place, 24 hours didn't pass yet.

Should I go after her now, or wait until she calms herself?

Shion didn't move for a few minutes, thinking about Aqua's laments.

It's true, I don't want to have a maid and I might have looked disappointed when the king announced the news, but if I had to choose a maid, I'd have asked for Aqua. I guess people won't know what I'm thinking if I don't say anything. I will do my best from now on to avoid misunderstandings. She needs to know that there is no one else who could serve me as well as she can. I enjoy her presence much more than the company of the plain-looking mobs.

I also need to explain why I want her to call me by my name... Isn't it a normal thing to do when you try to become friends with someone? I don't care about the hierarchy of this country, she is equal to me, more important than the likes of the king.

Hmm? When did my goal change from "being alone" to "making Aqua my friend"? Damn. I'll think about it later. Aqua stopped moving, might be time to run after her.

Aqua is already quite far away. Sighing about having to run, something she hasn't done for so long, she eventually decides that not letting her cute, stupid maid cry any longer is more important.

"Hmph. Let's get this distance over quickly. Don't want a remake from yesterday's garden episode."

Chapter Text

Shion had run for a short while, but she was already exhausted. Her years of lack of exercise had taken a toll on her stamina, and her clothes only made it worse, as they were not particularly suited for running. If they reversed their roles and Shion had to try to run away from Aqua, the latter would quickly catch up with her.

How embarrassing! At least, if she sees me panting, she might believe I was looking all around for her and didn't cheat using magic at all

Finally, Shion had her target in sight, but her joy was short-lived. Aqua was sitting on the ground and looked terrified.

Forgetting any exhaustion she had a few seconds ago, the silver-haired girl rushed to the pink-haired girl's side, determined to protect her from her assailants. Three servants, two men, rather tall at that, and a woman looked down at Aqua menacingly and now looked surprised at Shion's arrival.

"My, my. Aren't you three cowards; ganging up on a weak girl? What is it for? Have any excuses to give me?" Shion said, perceiving the sweat running down their necks. She decided to use the same power powder she used to overpower Aqua the day before, or at least, that was Shion's plan at the start. She needed to use it sneakily.

Using it on my whole body is too risky. Aqua seeing me is one thing, but the servants are more problematic. They could create rumors if things don't turn bad for them. My only option is to use it on my legs only. It should be enough. It HAS to be enough,

The only woman in the group finally spoke up, her voice trembling. "S-She caused our respected damsel's arrest! It's her fault!"

So that's what it is. Revenge.

"We thought we could do it sneakily, but now that you've seen us, we can't back down anymore. Even if we run away, someone like you can easily track us down. That stupid Goofy is so lucky. She can act as your cute dog and be excused for every mistakes she performs, right? You're just a little girl, a shitty noble, or whatever you are. We can easily overpower you!" the oaf said to Shion.

As expected, they want to come to hands. Humans are so stupid: not even two minutes of talking before it's already time for a fight.

The first man started running toward Shion as expected. To Shion's great pleasure, the other man appeared to be assessing the situation instead of immediately joining the fight. While trying to do ample movements, Shion finally remembered something. Something very important.

Crap. I forgot that dress was stupidly hard to move inside. I might be pretty cute wearing it, but I won't do much in fights.

The man was dangerously close to Shion and reached out to grab her, but despite being disadvantaged, Shion was quick enough to sweep his feet out and trip him up. 

Well executed, if I can boast myself a bit.

Now on the ground, Shion kicked her opponent twice, first in the sides and second in the face. The powder she had freshly used increased tenfold strength, so even someone his size would feel the impact.

While she was getting back on her feet, Shion's pause was interrupted by the second man, who quickly approached her. However, she didn't have enough time to dodge the attack, so the servant grabbed her dress and pulled as hard as possible to prevent Shion from running away.

In an attempt to get away, Shion kicks him in the leg, trying to make him let go. One kick, two kicks, three kicks, and the man was still not letting go, but the kicks were having an effect, forcing him to fall. Shion, unwilling to follow him in his fall, tries to escape his grip, resulting in the broad man tearing apart the dress she tried so hard to keep his hand on.

"I hope she won't be mad when I tell her one of the dresses is torn." resonated in Shion's mind when she saw the damage done. "It was a gift anyway; she won't be mad if I damage my property, right? Can't I fix it with magic anyway?"

But that was still not enough to move freely. And the witch was correct; there might be a big hole in her dress that showed her high thigh, but her movements were still affected.

Her opponents being dizzy, Shion ran up to Aqua and whispered to her to help her tear the thing apart. "Come on, do not hesitate and think about the future: we do it before they come to their senses!"

Shion's words were enough for Aqua to regain her calm and obey Shion's orders. While the witch made the dress as straight as possible with her foot, the maid used her strength to tear it using the hole created earlier.

"The fabric is getting torn apart; good job, my secretly strong maid! I knew I could count on--" Shion could not finish her thoughts as she fell.

Initially not understanding what was happening, the puzzle started completing itself when she noticed Aqua's face first between her legs. "She might be a klutz if she manages to fall like that AND makes me fall..."

The thugs, who seemed ready to pick up where they left off, laughed at this. "Bullying my maid is one thing, but no one mocks THE great Shion! Nothing personal, kids; I will have to finish you off."

The woman with the tattered dress straightened up and looked at Aqua to see if she needed help. She was red, as red as Shion had ever seen anyone. "I will not take it out on her if she's so embarrassed by a little fall like this. There is no time to think about it now; the problems are back."

It was time for round two, and Shion now had all her "power" on display. Since the magic user's dress was in shambles, it was more arduous for the two big guys to predict her movements. Shion waltzed around them and went for the left ankle of the one closest to her, bringing him down. She quickly took advantage of this and used it as a platform for a knee strike to the other's face.

Proclaiming her victory, Shion shouted, "I won't pity people defying me," as she looked down on her two opponents.

Sounds of hurried footsteps echoed through the alleyway as someone tried to escape, but Shion's sharp senses picked up on their movements. Unfortunately for her, she was quite the bore, and it's not long before Shion caught up to her and gave her a hard blow in the stomach. The three were now stunned; Shion screamed for help, hoping people would hear her.

"MURASAKI SHION IS ASKING FOR ASSISTANCE; THIS IS AN EMERGENCY."

And only a minute later, the king's butler and a handful of his subordinates come as fast as they can.

Lucky catch. This man won't be corrupted and will understand our circumstances.

"Miss Murasaki, may I please know what happened here?" the butler inquires.

"I'm exceedingly tired and need to tend to both my maid and me, so I'll be quick and explain everything in detail to the king later. I gave a request to my maid and left her alone for a while. However, she forgot something important she needed to bring, so I went back to look for her. Imagine my shock when the frail girl was under attack by three people. I will have you know I have been taught multiple self-defense techniques and easily outmaneuvered them. I hope you understand the gist of it and will allow me to take my leave here today. One last thing, I will need to tend to our injuries. Is there anything in my room that could be of use? If not, I'd be glad for you to send it to my room."

"Understood, Miss Murasaki. Please leave everything in my hands; I will take care of it. The room provided should have everything you need for your injuries," the butler replies.

The conversation wrapped up, and Shion hurried to Aqua to tell her that everything has been taken care of and she could relax. The maid nods and begins walking by the side of her master, firmly grabbing the dress by the torn side.

.

.

The fight ended an hour ago, but Aqua remained silent, sitting on the couch. Being tired and wanting to give her some space, Shion had not tried talking to her yet. But the witch's patience was wearing thin, and she needed to know if something had happened before she reached the scene.

Shion was reluctant but finally asked, "Do you have any injuries? Can you please let me take a look at your body?"

Crap, maybe that sounded a bit creepy. 

Aqua flinched.  Ok, that was creepy. 

"T-There is nothing wrong with my body. You don't need to worry about me."

She is lying were Shion's first thoughts.  But why? Is she hiding something? I need to find a way to ask her to let me check properly. 

"I order you to undress this instant!"

Stupid Shion, stupid hermit, you're a danger to humans! Go die in your solitary life, scum!" Shion resolved herself and quickly regained her composure. That was no time to denigrate herself.

The magic-using girl could feel a glint of fear in her partner's eyes. Was undressing in front of her that fearful? Or was there something bigger going on?

Aqua, who had only despair on her face because she knew she couldn't win the argument, began to undress, following her master's instructions and keeping only her underwear on.

Now scanning her body from toe to head, Shion could see that Aqua had no particular problem from her perspective. However...

HOLY SHIT how big are her...? Oi, quit staring, Shion! What are you, a lecherous old man? I'm really starting to think I'm dangerous. 

"Ahem. Can you turn yourself now? Just a quick look at your bott- back! At your back! And then you can put your clothes back."

"I refuse," the maid stated vehemently.

"Eeeeeh?! What makes you think I'll back down here?" the silver-haired witch retorted, taken aback at Aqua's stance.

"If... If you care about me, you won't look."

"...I understand. I won't pry any further." For the first time in this room since the incident, Aqua wore a small smile.

"...is what I'd say if My name weren't Shion."

Before Aqua could react, Shion was already behind her, looking, eyes wide open at her back.

In Shion's mind, every piece of the puzzle was now complete. Why had she been so reluctant to show her back; why had she been bullied; why did she always look so sad?

In front of Shion's brown eyes was a tattoo, but not an ordinary one. It was something Shion was familiar of.

She had a witch's curse. And it was not new. It looked like it had been etched into her body for at least half her life.

That's what witches usually were, vicious heartless beings. They didn't mind ruining anyone's life if that could please them.

Would I be the same way if I didn't stop interacting with humans centuries ago? No, I know someone who didn't.

The curse is pretty simple: Anything that sets its sight on it will slowly start to loathe the cursed person, even if the other person is their best friend, wife, or family. What's worse is that anyone afflicted will spread it when interacting with another being too much.

Here, the cursed one is Aqua, and the one most likely to have witnessed her curse is the old maid now arrested. Since she was only a maid, she didn't have enough to do with the king to infect him; however, she undoubtedly passed it on to most of the servants.

Thinking too much about it is irrelevant right now. I can ask all I want later about how Aqua lived her life and how much this curse has destroyed her. I have to act quickly. But if I help her, she will know I am sketchy. Should I take the chance? She's just a human I have known for a day- No, what am I thinking? If I leave her alone, I am no better than the first witch who cursed her. Wondering if Aqua would freak out or reveal my identity is stupid. What if she does? Then I run away and lose a bet. There's nothing wrong with that. But what if I do not help her? Another person will see her tattoo and come after her.

Shion was more determined than ever to help the weak. She secretly opens her dimensional stash to search for a potion she experimented with years ago. In her bored days, she sometimes cursed plants or animals in her forest. Was that cruel? Shion was confident and did it only when she was sure that her work would revert immediately. Up to this day, she had developed a special cream that could be more easily applied to a physical curse compared to potions and had a more potent effect than powder.

Today was different. Two important variables made Shion nervous. The first is that the curse is on the human body. Will it affect it? The second problem is even worse. This curse was cast a decade ago by another witch. Shion may be an immortal being, she still has her first times.
Slowly, the witch approaches the bare back and tries to keep it as still as possible by hugging it. "It's going to be all right. I will take care of it, okay?" whispers Shion in a soothing voice. While keeping the momentum, she starts stroking the tattoo. First, just with her fingers to treat Aqua as gently as possible, then slowly with the healing cream, hoping that everything will turn out alright.

Until now, Aqua looked like a chaotic bundle of emotions to Shion, but after each caress, she seemed more relaxed. Shion's lotion was working, and Aqua could feel it on her body. Five minutes later, the curse was gone, allowing Shion to tell her to get dressed and use the bed as she pleased. "She must be pretty tired. At least I am." Running, fighting, and using anti-curse lotions she had made years ago were not what she had in mind when she woke up this morning. The witch dropped flat on the couch, hoping Aqua would stay still a little longer. But still sobbing slightly, Aqua begins to speak in a shaky voice. "S-Shion, c-can we talk for a bit? And about the bed, I-I do not mind sharing it; I'd feel bad otherwise..."

"Ah, sure. Should have expected her to be confused. A random girl just cured her of her 10-year-long curse." Shion gets up and looks at Aqua's face, happy to see a smile on her face. "Come on. I'm tired. Let's go straight to bed, I'll hear you inside."

Aqua blushes a bit and promptly gets in bed, waiting for her partner to join before speaking.

"Well... Hear me out, okay?"