Warning

Mitsuko looked like she was the most surprised as Jumi asked that to her. "I certainly don't... Besides, I'm the real me. The one you have met back at the convention, even if she toys with her magic manors.", she assured, shifting her attention to Reika. "What exactly are you planning with us? For a moment, I thought you really were only helping me recover. What is it you want from us?", she then asked, coldly. Reika smiled, not really looking worried about the reaction. "Nothing... What happened, happened because it was meant to happen. Someone out there is looking out for you. I only helped haste things. What you should really ask is. What does that girl want?", Reika questioned. That girl? Why did Reika need to sound so cryptic? "Do you mean Lenneth...? She looked like she wanted my sword. I am not sure anymore but it does not matter, now... We have not seen her in a while.", Mitsuko observed but Reika sighed. "Dumb girl, do you think she gave up on you? When she interfered with us before, I barely made it out of that encounter, which is a lot said when I am already dead. You walked away in a gate but that girl was looking for you, thinking I knew where you had gone. The sword, you, it doesn't matter. Even Shinigami played with her before and lost. She is a high level threat. Gather your allies and defeat her. The wheel of fate is turning.", she replied.

Mitsuko nodded to Jumi about what happened. She was glad that all was fine on that side but then more important matters came up. The fact something forced when she transformed felt spooky enough. "I did not feel any different, I think... Actually, I normally rely on that sword to transform but this time, it felt natural. Like it is part of me...", she told the two. Something about what Reika may have done to her or someone else, if Nall's goddess was involved in this. The cat himself did not sound sure about how this situation had come to be but his distrust of Reika pushed him to instantly doubt her motives. Mitsuko could hardly blame him since Reika was very mischievous... Reika herself did not appear to be very far as she came out from another hallway to head toward them. "No need to seek for me, then. Forgive me if I eavesdrop... I just had to figure out what you all thought you knew. Not that it matters... I was planning something but it's not something you need to worry about. Jumi, I did tell you about the process that made Shinigami who she is, didn't I? The very same process was used on Mitsuko. Instead of seeing herself magically bound to relics of death, Mitsuko effectively absorbed the sword she had. Let me tell you a secret. That process would not have worked so well if she was not meant for it. So who are you, really?", she asked.

Mitsuko blinked as she heard about the figure, "What...?", she let out, looking around but clearly, there was nothing to see now. Nall eyed Jumi, "There is no way for Reika to do anything. Even if she is a demon, she can't go to where she is. The sword does not allow it. Messing with it this way though might do something... Althena is connected to the sword through her magic. What she never told me is why she chose Mitsuko when Odin challenged her. Althena only told me that I should stay close to Mitsuko and protect her.", he explained. Mitsuko didn't exactly know why she was chosen either. She did like the feel of the sword, though. She always had it in her to fight. Mitsuko still took Nall's worries seriously, though. Reika did not feel like a threat but if she was hiding something, it would change things. "You're right... I did that on a whim. You and Shinigami looked like you were having some fun and I felt bad for her... Besides, I... you know... What I told you before.", she told Jumi, not wanting to spell it out too loudly. Nall obviously did not get what she meant. "Maybe we should go and ask her for all details... She has us where she wants us now. It would be either we find answers or we find worse. At least, I am glad we are together again. I'd hope to see Shinigami again, though.", she told them, wanting to go back to her sometimes.

Everything about Kaida at the very least amazed her knowing what she had done that she was not aware of. Perhaps she would be lucky to meet her later and speak with her about this new life of hers. What concerned her the most right now was what Reika had done to her, if anything. Whether intentional or not, it sounded like something had happened and Nall did not look fond of it, as he kept looking at her in odd manners. "I did not think about my sword at all until you mentioned it, to be honest... Do you think Reika knew...? I don't think she took it if I can still transform. At least, it is not in the hands of Lenneth.", she concluded, not sure if it would be worse with Reika. As for it possibly being absorbed into her body, by magic or else, only one person now could probably really answer her and he was close to Jumi. "Nall... Is there something on your mind? Do you know anything?", Mitsuko asked, getting the cat to look at them both before he sighed. "...I think Reika did something to you. She has been acting weird for a while. I was not sure why I could not feel Althena anymore but you feel like her just now. I don't think I like where this is going but she is trying to change you into her.", he said, still worried about the chain of events. Looking at Jumi, he looked serious. "We have to ask what her plan is... She will be alone with her.", he whined.

Mitsuko herself was left confused by what Reika could have meant. "Hm, I am not sure... I am happy to see you here, at least. Even if it's only for a moment... Surprisingly, Reika was kind so far. She made me a meal and allowed me to use her bath and walk free. I don't think that she wants to do anything bad to me. But... I admit that part IS strange, coming from her. I can take a moment and search the library while I am here and see if I can find anything. I think I can explore some more as well... I will try not get in trouble.", she said, feeling like being there would not totally be a bad experience, as long as she could find something to have fun about, or read in the meanwhile. Hearing that Shinigami spent some time with Jumi at least did feel promising. Them talking with Reika and her sending them to her school was the more surprising part of that story. She had not been there for a few days. Who knew what was happening there now? Well, Jumi might now that she had gone there. Someone who knew Reika at her school, though? How could it be? The fox was with that person as well now. A lot did indeed happen, it seemed. "Wait, Kaida...? Miss Kaida from the infirmary? She has an interest in Shinigami... I wonder how she knew Reika. Does it mean that Reika was... I never heard of her before.", She had lot of questions in her mind right now. If the home was one place Shinigami could not access, maybe Reika kept it hidden. Was it even the same place? Probably not. A version of the place, she said... This meant that there were more of them? As she was thinking, Jumi asked her about the sword and where it was according to Reika. This made the valkyrie look at both Nall and the fairy. "I... I didn't have it when I woke up. Are you sure that it is what she told you? Wait.", she said, closing her eyes for a bit then opened them again. "Huh...", Mitsuko only let out them moved away."I think...", she started then tried to summon the magic before her body magically glowed bright, transforming her into her magical form. Her wings spread large, reaching both walls of the halls enough that she had to retreat them backward a little, leaving her otherwise naked. With a movement of her hand, she summoned her sword to her grasp before ending her transformation. Nothing about it looked inherently different but a very faint silhouette of a person of sort appeared above her for a short moment before fading out. Mitsuko only eyed her sword for a bit before she gave a look to Jumi. "Well, there it is... I don't know where the pendant is but I can definitely call upon its magic.", she assured. Nall did not look as excited or impressed, if at all reassured by it. Something about this did not feel right.

Mitsuko happily shared the embrace, feeling something at least a little familiar again. "Visiting... Reika did mention that she had to keep an eye on me in case. You can't imagine how I woke up. It was frightening but Reika was there, at least... She put me in this glass container and I was floating in there. She said that it helped me restore my energy. To be honest, I feel incredible right now. I have to thank her for it.", she said while Nall seemed to stare at her, a confused expression stuck on his face. "Um... Are you okay, Nall?", the valkyrie asked upon noticing. The white cat snapped out of it and nodded slowly. "I am alright, it's good to see you again.", he replied but eyed Jumi. Mitsuko looked back at Jumi as well, smiling. "You said that a lot happened while I was gone...? Now I am curious about what I've missed. Shinigami is not with you, either. Is she alright? Nothing bad happened, I hope...", she voiced to her friend, staying close to her for as long as she wanted. Mao seemed to have stayed around for a little longer but she always had her neutral expression with her, observing the three of them until she decided to turn around and leave them be for now. "By the way, this is the same house we were in before. At least I think so... The sealed basement is where I was left to rest. She left it open, this time. It's still a little scary, though.", she told her.

"Nobody would find her without the key. This world is only known by me and Mitsuko now. Ah but also Mao, of course.", Reika explained, leading Jumi and Nall around. The part about what the outside looked like made her take a good look at Jumi. "Perhaps... A world of apocalypse does not please you? It's impossible to leave like this and even if anyone did, there is no exit out there. Do not misunderstand, Mitsuko has a lot of freedom in here... She is not held by chains. If you want to know the reason for this world to be like this, I don't have any answers. What you have seen in that dream was completely made up for some fun.", she explained, not really telling much otherwise. Leading them to where the room of Mitsuko would be, she stepped to the side of the door with Mao floating near her quietly. Knocking gently, she opened the door slightly. "Mitsuko, you have guests.", she warned the girl inside before stepping back. A sound could be heard from inside, like someone was waking from a nap of sort. As the door opened, Mitsuko rubbed her eyes, curious about who Reika meant. The sight of the two made her freeze, though. "J-jumi! Is it really you? Oh hello, Nall. Both of you here.", she said with a happy smile while eyeing Reika but the reaper just shrugged and walked away. "Enjoy... I'll take you back when you like.", she told the three of them.

Reika looked proud to finally hear that question. "You are getting closer, Jumi. Where exactly is Mitsuko? The little goddess is lost somewhere where nobody would find her. If I was gone, she still would not be completely lost.", she said, extending a hand to pet Mao. "Here's another secret for you, Mao is the first creature who I've met when I died... I have earned her as becoming the next reaper. Where or when she comes from is unknown but she is special. This little reaper is a soul keeper from beyond. She can do things you would not comprehend but one of those is to allow me to create any place I like. You want to know what really happened to Mitsuko? Let's go see her." Snapping her fingers, Reika let go of Mao who floated and moved back, forming what appeared to be a crystal floating close to her hand. "I made Shinigami capable of going around as she likes. A simple matter as she can manipulate the magic of void and death.. Mao however... I think you should see for yourself.", Reika explained then watched the catgirl raise the crystal floating still up above her palm before a spherical shockwave emanated from it, making a similar warping sound to when Shinigami had destroyed the manor's gate. This time, an instant later, the four of them found themselves in the manor's hall. "Welcome to my home... Not a dream, this time.", she said.

Reika shrugged and gave Jumi a smirk. "Did you expect otherwise? Time is not on our side, though. I need to keep an eye on Mitsuko to see what will happen to her... If nothing then she will be back soon but I would not worry about her. What I've shown you was from not long ago... Just before I came to find you. I think you're thinking of something else, though... A sword that Mitsuko wielded. Something around her neck, I am guessing?", she asked the two but Nall suddenly looked upset. "What did you do with it? You stole it, didn't you?", he questioned loudly but Reika grinned. "Stole it? What would I do with such thing, no... Mitsuko still had it when she was put inside the chamber.", she simply replied. Nall still didn't like that answer. It confirmed that she had it with her before but she didn't when she woke up. "Where is it, then?", he asked coldly. "Still with her, I imagine.", she replied with a sarcastic tone to her voice. "I mean, I have no idea where it would have went if nobody has touched it.", she continued then looked at Jumi. "Your friend is fine. She will not feel too different until she does. I've made her a better magical girl, in fact. Just like Shinigami, the source of her magic will be part of her. Even if she tried to discard it, it would still remain part of her. Hopefully, she will not try to destroy her sword as a way to get rid of it.", Reika jokingly said. "She won't be alone, anyway. Only for now.", she assured

Shinigami appeared to understand a little better but not as quite as she really wished she did. More things Reika hid from her or never told her. Kaida being somewhat related to her was not surprising in any way. "Help sounds good... The last person you brought to me who happened to want to help me ended being quite an interesting human as well...", Shinigami replied while grinning, speaking mostly of Nymphia. However, even that girl looked playful with her dose of shyness and calmness. Kaida looked more reserved, professional. Not to mention that she came with a large dragon to boast. After Umi, it didn't have to end the same way but relaxing some with an examination did not sound so bad. Kaida was not sure who Shinigami referred to but it did appear like more than one human had interacted with her, this now including the temple itself who allowed her around free or at least without any form of metaphorical leash. To think that Shinigami had gained such trust among humans when Reika herself was nothing but bad news, according to her history with her. The fox eyed Jumi, listened to her then looked at Kaida. "Alright, then... I'll take a nap and you can do your thing. Sounds good?", she suggested, causing Kaida to smile softly. "Yes, that is perfect. I will not be doing anything that would hurt you.", she reassured then looked at Jumi. "Please keep an eye on Reika...", She warned the fairy. Shinigami also gave a look to Reika but did not comment on Kaida's warning, only leaving with the dragon girl inside, toward where they could both be in peace. Nall flew nearby Jumi and also turned to Jumi. "I agree with her... Though I'd prefer to use my time better than keep an eye on a clear threat. If she's here, what is Mitsuko doing anyway? If she is alone over there, she might be in danger... Or stuck. If something happened to her...", he said, a little unnerved. Reika simply sighed and approached with Mao. "I'm here to see how things will unfold... I thought you may have had questions about your friend as well. She is alright... She has a home and she has food. She is not hurt nor dying.", she said.

Kaida was not too worried about Jumi possibly trying to hide things from her. In fact, knowing Reika, the girl showing up where nobody expected her was perfectly reasonable to believe with her. "My friend will be quiet. If the temple is in danger in any way, it will be the only reason it will wake up to alert you and defend us.", she explained to them. The topic turning to Shinigami made the Little Dragon curious, especially hearing about the fox having gone to the kitchen, being left apparently free in the temple. She did not question it as it was not her place to do so but it did make her want to see her a little more. Reika came closer with Mao when she was being mentioned. With them being at the entrance, Shinigami soon found her way there as well, not knowing what was going on there and who was there except those she expected to come back. Jumi and Nall, at the very least. Once there, she poked her nose outside and first noticed the dragon, making her raise an eyebrow before she eyed Kaida being a very red themed woman just there. Her eyes then looked at Reika, this time losing some of her excitement while the reaper simply grinned from seeing her. Kaida however blinked, stared at the fox for the first time, being left speechless in front of this tall creature of deathly colors. A creation of Reika without doubts. Even her jaw dropped. Shinigami returned her gaze to Kaida and tilted her head. "Seeing something you like...? You would not be the first human to do so.", she teased but Kaida blushed and bowed politely. "You must be Shinigami...", she concluded easily before she moved closer, "You are not like what I expected to see... Such a body, muscles... These eyes of yours and your fur...", she examined her a little, being a bit excited but soon stepped back. "Please forgive me. Once I've heard about you, I just had to see you. If you would allow it, I would like to examine you closer... There is much that I would like to know about you.", Kaida requested, making Shinigami think, looking at her up and down. "...Interesting offer. And where did you hear of me...?", Shinigami asked, leaning forward to hold the girl's chin, making her face turn red with the fox being this close to her without warning. "That was Jumi... Ah but I did not introduce myself, did I? I am Kaida and I am a veterinarian... You could see me like a doctor but for creatures and beasts. I believe I may be able to prove that you are or not a demon as well.", she explained herself a little more, making Shinigami let go of her, "Hm, about that again. So that beast is yours... Impressive. Fine, then... If that makes you happy.", the fox replied to her before eyeing the others, wondering what happened with Reika being there.

Reika only looked more intrigued when Jumi mentioned it. "Of course she would... I am not worried about her, though. She might just end being another girl she plays with.", she replied in a snarky manner. Still, a slice of annoyance could be heard in her tone as well if someone listened well enough to notice. Her gaze turned to the fairy. "That will be interesting to see. Her and I, we have a story to finish. In all of its due time.", The tone of annoyance increased a little but she otherwise remained calm. Once they were allowed inside, Kaida made sure to follow the car at a safe distance, walking dragon steps to a safe spot near the temple, leaving the beast to lay down after it finally arrived to its resting space. Once Kaida dismounted and heard Hikaru but also gave a look to Reika and Mao getting out as well, she politely ignored them for now. Something felt strange inside her seeing this one girl again but she expected that this might come soon or later, with Mao AND Shinigami showing up. Her only question was how did Reika find her way with them while she was certain that nobody had approached the car at all during the ride. That reaper had some tricks up her sleeves to go unnoticed by her like this. Reika only shrugged but nodded, "Sure... We will make peace while inside your home.", she agreed, even if with a certain tone to it. Kaida thought best to ignore her for now. Nall preferred to remain away. Kaida headed to the temple itself, finding the first person at the door and bowed politely to her. "Greetings. It is a honor to be here. I hope my dragon friend will not be cause for worries. In fact, it will stay there to rest. It might look fierce but unless hurt or provoked, it will not mind anyone being curious.", she told Umi, trying to be polite and social, putting aside her excitement to find that beast of death. If she was there, she would see her soon anyway. Reika and Mao instead watched from the distance, the reaper feeling some irritation while the cat remained as neutral as usual, if anything watching Nall out of curiosity while he was himself keeping an eye on the dragon from afar, being in a good mood.

Reika only seemed to watch in amusement as they disappeared painlessly in the void. Nall didn't really like it, even panicking a bit but slumber did take him just the same anyway. Only then did Reika also disappear to leave nothing. They both would wake up soon after, probably close to the temple now if they were still on the road. Nall looked grumpy by it, opening his eyes slowly only to shoot them open as soon as he noticed Reika's butt near him, realizing she was still there. "Yikes.", he slipped out, moving away. "Now now, not a way to behave... I hope you had good dreams.", she replied with a smile to him then checked on Jumi. "Time to wake up... You two had a small nap. Hopefully a good one." Nall was upset but still glad to at least have seen Mitsuko or a vision of her alive. He doubted that she was an illusion, seeing how she behaved. It had to be her. There would be no reason for Reika to go all the way only to play them like fools and waste time. He'd like to question the reaper about certain things but it was best to hold back for now. Mao still did not seem bothered at all, still looking outside at what appeared to be flying closer until it landed in an open area near them, surprising even Nall who had almost forgotten about that. "Well, there is someone I did not see in a long while, now. It's like she did not age.", Reika commented about Kaida first making sure her dragon was doing well, now. It did not take too long before the Little Dragon's eyes looked toward the car, only to stare at who she had recognized on the back seats. The confusion visible on her face did not change how cautious she now was, even making sure that her dragon beast stepped back some from the car but otherwise did nothing except taking a good look at them and not losing her sight on them. "Looks like someone has noticed. From this moment, I think things will get very interesting, won't they?", the reaper asked rhetorically, as tension probably was going to be felt being at the temple with her anyway. If anyone else noticed the dragon anyway, Kaida would keep it behaved, not wanting it to show any hostility.

Nall would still try his paw at finding out how far he can make it. IF Reika even can be followed in this place. Mitsuko on the other hand kept eating until she was done and despite her odd action of before, she did not seem to hear Jumi speak. After she was done, she then got up, gave herself a good stretch while thinking that nobody else was around to see her like this anyway then went to discard her dish properly. Stepping to walk away, Mitsuko soon stopped again, looking in the general direction of Jumi and bit her lip. Something seemingly troubled her even if she should not see anyone but Reika. A feeling maybe, as she tried to see something that was not really there. The kitchen was otherwise empty of sounds. Not even water dripping could be heard. Holding her own head, Mitsuko started wondering if she was not losing it but she just had woken up from a long sleep in a water chamber... For how long had she slept? Reika had not made THAT clear. What did happen during that time? The valkyrie went on to leave as Nall came back quickly to report his finding but the close encounter made Mitsuko slow down and hesitate again, blinking as she looked around once more. "Reika disappeared... That woman is taunting us with her magic. At the same time, this place is not real, right?", Nall proceeded to ask Jumi while Mitsuko walked away. The process of her doing so finally shifted the dream, making it fade away while Nall was startled and turned around in the air, looking around in panic. "What now...? She is playing with us again.", he said, only for Reika alone to appear from the void. "Not quite... You've seen her, now... It's time to wake up. Besides, you're almost there, now... You would not want to be carried, do you? What would Shinigami think? We have time for questions if you have any but not yet... ♪", she snapped and playfully cast a form of gate below the two. One that would anyway suck them in if they tried to move away. One which would force them in a slumber only to wake up to their true bodies.

Nall sighed from hearing it from Jumi. He knew that Reika was not a good person, he felt it in his guts. Her not being a demon however did show some of whatever was left of her human nature. Reika was clearly plotting something but what, that was hard to say. Mitsuko did not seem to be too bothered by it. Or rather, she was oblivious to it. At least Nall was explained a bit about why the both were naked, even if that didn't explain much about why they appear to be naked often. He guessed it was better not to question humans in this case. He would be a hypocrite if he said that there was not something attractive to it. Best was not to think too much about Shinigami's time. The topic going about the sword made Nall shift his mind to something more serious. As Mitsuko was naked, there was no sign of the sword. No pendant on her neck or nothing close. It was very possible to simply hide it magically but unfortunately, he did not feel anything at all in this place. "I don't remember seeing the sword anywhere, where she woke up... Reika better not have stolen it.", he said in an annoyed manner. At least Reika felt confident that Mitsuko would not go anywhere enough that she left her alone without hesitation. Where she went was hard to say and rules of that world were hard to define. Maybe there was a way to know. Nall took off, trying to follow. On the side of Mitsuko, the valkyrie was completely naked to Jumi. The dream was real enough that she was seen like she was there, with nothing to hide from her. If she inspected her body close enough, she might notice very subtle details of flawlessness to it. Any damage repaired, any curves perfectly whole, every inches of her body seamless like she never aged. Granted, Mitsuko was herself young in her adulthood so these details may be less apparent. Otherwise, her body did not change in shape or size. A moment later, Mitsuko looked up like she felt something close, her blue eyes scanning the room before she concluded that she was alone, returning to finish eating.

Nall didn't like that idea or what it might ultimately do if that was what had happened to Mitsuko. Althena's power was given through that sword. The worst was that there was no way to tell with the way Reika had set this upon them. Was this part of her plan? Right now, he wanted to keep watching despite the oddity of it although not surprising considering what Shinigami wanted out of both girls. Reika wanted him to see Mitsuko as well, probably because she knew he was worried but still. Another point that Jumi had made that made him curious was exactly how much did the dumb fox know about her "mistress" if she had lied to even her? At least her birth seemed genuine. The idea that Shinigami lived in the illusion or magic of Reika also made sense to Nall, if she was capable of creating such home or copies at will. One home gone, only to make another, if Jumi was right about this. He barely remembered the outside, though. According to the windows, the outside did not look too bad at least. The night time made it hard to tell but the sky was however calm and starry. Honestly, Nall couldn't really understand how this world or whatever worked. If it was created by Reika then could she also create weather? Or was it an illusion? "I don't think I want to go outside... Mitsuko looks alright, though. Even with her being a big meanie before.", he told Jumi. Mitsuko was eating, did not look too worried about Reika. Even if she did not see or hear about who Reika was, she was still fully aware of what she had done, what she was, as far as she knew, but despite that, something about the reaper now, didn't alert her too much. The said reaper was awfully affectionate right now, almost borderline romantic with them being naked and her hugging Mitsuko from behind. "So, you will have your own room for the days you will be here. I think you know which already. Make yourself comfortable.", she told the girl. Mitsuko looked back a bit and nodded. "I will. Still, you're acting odd compared to what you've done before.", she then remarked. Reika gave a sigh, feeling irked but kept her composure. "Your friends expect you back in one piece... I could not leave you hungry or hurt. Maybe a little of a thank you for entertaining me before as well. No hesitation to play around with death. In fact, you already showed your interest in Shinigami, I almost envy her... Nevermind that. Jumi is a lucky woman but she is about to find just how lucky she really is. You really do not feel anything, do you?", she asked, holding the girl close. Mitsuko blinked, looked at herself but shook her head. "Should I? You're starting to worry me.", she replied. Reika smirked, "You have been reborn inside that pod. Renewed... You're fine.", she told her. Mitsuko was left speechless, unsure what she was meaning. Now that she was reminded, the pod did feel like she was floating in a womb but surely it was not what Reika had meant. After all, she did not feel different. Renewed was an interesting word, however. Mitsuko could not help but look at herself, touch herself a little and even feel her breasts but nothing felt out of place. Maybe it was nothing but a very efficient recovery, she did feel better than ever. "Well... I do feel better. I am glad for that... It's like I slept for days.", the valkyrie said, only getting Reika to nod. "Mhm. But for now, finish eating. Report to me if anything feels wrong." She said, before she left her to her food. Nall, hearing the words for the first time that were first spoken to Jumi, did not like the sound of that too much. What crazy experience was Reika doing on Mitsuko? All he thought about doing was bite her face off anyway. He did not trust her but seeing Reika leave Mitsuko alone did not change anything for the valkyrie. She still did not look alarmed or worried. No signs of her wanting to escape. If anything, she did think of Jumi and Shinigami, wondering how the two were faring in her absence. Them and Nall but she could not notice any of them right now. She was currently all alone and the only person she could turn to if she needed anything was Reika until she was back.

Reika did not seem to react or do much about what Jumi said, if she even heard. If she did listen, it might or not be from this one the fairy saw. Following did not seem like a bad idea but Jumi's question troubled Nall a bit. "I can't sense anything from here... Not even Mitsuko or that woman, It's like they're not even here... Sorry, I can't tell if she has it or not.", Nall said, looking depressed as he tried to find answers as well but nothing in this place really gave any. Whatever magic was in this place, it either did not allow him to sense anything or there was not anything to sense at all, but being his first experience joining Jumi, it did creep him out a little. He did not like this feeling, anyhow. After the two left and Jumi decided to follow, they would find the exit to the ground floor a hallway further; A recognizable room that used to be sealed before. Reika helped Mitsuko walk around to the stairs bringing to the second floor. "I think you know where the baths and showers are already, don't you? You can probably recognize the place. Think you can make it there?", the reaper asked Mitsuko who took a good look around then nodded to her. "It's... It's the same. Yes, I will be fine, thank you.", she replied, a little confused but not asking much about why things were like this. She was not sure yet what to expect with and from Reika. All she knew now was that she woke up there. Nall as well noticed that this place looked almost perfectly the same, including the frames, furniture and everything else. "We saw that fox destroy this place with a loud bang, didn't we? Does she own many same places or what? She must be rich. Or did she really bring it back?", the small creature questioned. Reika herself did not appear to hear him, only watching Mitsuko walk on her own to the bathroom before the reaper headed back down to the kitchen. "What is she planning anyway? Whatever she is doing, she can't be doing this to be good. She played nasty with Shinigami and she was the reason we escaped.", he commented, still clearly not liking or trusting the reaper very much. The dream did not seem to stop there or allow them to go after one other, only shifting back to what appeared to be a somewhat larger kitchen than what they might remember. Reika was there and humming as she was preparing something. A reaper in unusual good mood with a little dose of her insanity. Mitsuko soon walked in, eyed around then headed to Reika who turned to her as she she heard her. "There you are... Better, isn't it? Now for the main course. Although maybe I should be fair with you.", she said and made her own clothes vanish so she could be as naked as her guest. While Mitsuko inevitably blushed with surprise, Nall cringed slightly, wondering why she did this way. "Nothing wrong with this I hope...", Reika commented while getting a plate filled with the valkyrie before bringing it to a table and setting it down. Before Mitsuko could get to it, the reaper went to her and behind, embracing her. "How do you feel? I mean, how does your body feel? Nothing out of place?", she asked curiously as Mitsuko tried to remain calm. "N-no, I don't think so. Am I alright? You said I had to stay for a few days... You're not playing with me, are you?", she asked, just making sure. "Don't worry about that. I need to make sure that you're stable... I don't intend to do anything to you. Rest, wander, eat... I'll be around. Soon, you'll see them again.", the reaper responded. Nall was not quite sure what her deal was and not being able to detect anything did not help. Plus, it's like the two of them were not really there. Mitsuko could not see or hear them, even if they shouted for her. Seeing Mitsuko just go along with her plan and sit down to eat reassured him somewhat that she was alive and "well" but her whereabouts were unknown. Would Reika really just return her and be done? He was not really trusting any of it. Jumi however seemed to give her more leeway. "Do you think she says the truth? That Mitsuko is okay? If she is lying to her, I will bite her face. She did nothing but hurt everyone.", he snarled, being a little upset that he felt a bit powerless.

Reika was having a little too much fun listening to Jumi rambling about her methods and other things. She was not really concerned with their concerns. Her plan was in motion. Sharing some of her own life to them only felt natural. Even Kaida however did not know everything. "This is more fun this way, Jumi... Don't worry, it's not time for fun yet. Mitsuko is waiting... I am sure that this man will take good care of your body meanwhile.", the reaper commented, with a smirk toward Hikaru. Taking a good look at Nall, she wondered if that she should do a little more for that furball. At least, Mao did not seem bothered by being with them so far. Leaving her a little longer was fine. For now, Reika waited for Jumi to take the bite and most likely fall in a quick nap but before it went to waste, she made sure to pick the apple. "Well, no worries for her now. She truly will only nap for a moment. Her mind will be elsewhere but she should not take too long. Either way, she will not be in danger.", she told the priest, mainly. Then, she turned to Nall. "Your turn... You can choose to not go along with this but if you do, you will find Mitsuko. I have no need for your soul, I am just doing this out of kindness. I understand that you're somewhat connected to her.", she said to him, watching his reaction as he stared at the apple. "It's safe, I would not kill you here.", she said. Her words did not sound threatening but that did not reassure Nall much. Still, she was right... If Jumi was right about the temple AND Hikaru, it would be a bad move to try to do anything to him and Jumi right now. The problem was more that Reika did not come off as hostile like an enemy yet felt like one in some way. A magical girl with no good intentions. But if Jumi was somewhere, he had to follow if he was given the chance. Just in case. For Mitsuko as well. Approaching slowly, he looked at the apple offered to him then took a bite as well. At the very least, it tasted fresh. It felt like an apple, in all appearances. But his mind soon felt hazy, sleepy before he just fell asleep. "Good... Now we can relax on the way back.", Reika finally said, sitting back casually on her seat. Jumi and Nall on their side would wake in a familiar place, at least to Jumi, where they could find the large glass tube that Mitsuko was inside. All seemed normal for a moment before the system started behaving differently, showing some alerts. The calm water of the tube finally found some disturbance from movements inside as Mitsuko opened her eyes slowly, feeling confused by where she was. She could breathe, thankfully, but everything else felt out of place. As if by magic, the reaper appeared behind them from the corridor that lead there, before she stopped near the two. "I'm not really here so listen... She can't hear this just yet. In fact, she can't see you right now.", Reika preemptively said, looking in their vague direction. "What you see here is what I intended for you to see. She can't hear me so let's be brief... I might have lied about Mitsuko. If I did want to hurt her, I'd have done so but my feisty beasts are soft enough to treat even the most fragile girl in the best way. I mean, even Shinigami did not harm her, did she?", she said and winked, guessing what happened between them before. "I noticed the power of Mitsuko and I'm not the only one, it seems. That girl that interfered before is no magical girl... What god did you anger?", she asked. Expecting no answer from her perspective, Reika continued, "Either way, I had to try one of my experiences on her. Even I don't know the results but I feel like it will benefit you. As Death, I should not tilt the balance but I am sorry, I simply can't resist... I could have punished you for the pain that you gave me last time but this will have to wait... Your princess is waiting.", she said and walked close to the tube before she slammed the button on it with her palm. Soon the water started draining slowly until the opening was safe to be opened, freeing the girl inside, who panicked a little more while her body ejected the fluids that had penetrated inside her from all of holes but one. Reika hurried and removed the mask thing that allowed her to breath, letting her cough as she held her close. "Good morning... You were exhausted but I fixed that for you.", she told the girl who did not seem to notice Jumi or Nall, only the reaper. "W-where am I...? W-why does my body feel...", the valkyrie started but Reika smiled. "Let it all out. You will feel good soon. As for where you are...", she said, glancing a bit toward Jumi, "You're at my home. The sealed basement. I had to take measures to restore your strength. I hope the little game did not feel too wrong for you.", she told her, referring to what they felt before. Mitsuko barely remembered but still blushed a bit. "I... No, I-I enjoyed it. Thank you... I think... But did Shinigami not destroy your home?", Mitsuko asked curiously. "Oh but she did... But I have my ways. Feel better yet?", Reika then asked in return. The valkyrie nodded slowly, "I do, But where-", she started but Reika interrupted, "Not here. I had to bring you alone... Shinigami knows. For now, on your feet... You're still human and you have to eat to regain strength.", the reaper helped her up, not making her nudity weird but also not doing anything to cover her. "In fact, I will bring you to where you can clean up first. A meal will be set for you. I'll have to keep an eye on you for a few days, to make sure you're fine.", she told her. Mitsuko was not sure what was happening but she did feel better. Being naked seemed like the last thing to worry about right now. Something about the reaper felt oddly calming. She could only go along with what she was suggested. A proper shower after being plunged in this invasive water sounded right. Surely Jumi and the others were safe. Her only concern was whether she worried them or not. Reika vaguely turned toward Jumi's general direction as she walked away with the girl. "We will see your friends soon... I think they will be glad to see you.", she said, with a grin that Mitsuko did not take notice of, still feeling wobbly on her feet but slowly getting used to walk.

Reika did not look too surprised to be where she was, in a moving car. She even sat pretty comfortably while Mao was near her but focused on the outside view rather than whatever happened in the car. Though the implication that she may have listened made her smile, "I might have or not... Worried about the girl, aren't you? Or... something else? You wanted me to say something about her so here I am... Updates, hm? I was taking good care of her.", Reika said playfully but not in any creepy way out of line. "Oh right, you DID find about me, I am guessing. Then maybe you know how all of this started... We are getting close to the finale. I had fun, though.", she added, eyeing Jumi. Whatever she meant, Reika soon brought up and apple. "This is for you... Nothing too odd about this one but it will make you nap. If you want to see Mitsuko... To answer you, I don't see what you mean by unexpected results. Especially, some unrelated to Mitsuko? She was sleeping, at least last time I've checked... It might not be the case, soon... The good thing is I do not have to be nearby when she wakes up. Nothing can get to her where she is so I would not worry about that. There's much I need to say but... That will be for another time. Even Shinigami had to be lied to. I'd feel bad if it wasn't of you making her choose you. Maybe you can give her a better life.", she commented. Even for Reika, something in her voice seemed to bother her. Mao kept her completely unfazed attitude as she observed the outside world without ever looking back at Reika once or anyone else but Nall could not shake off that feeling as he stared at Reika just being vague, probably on purpose. At least the reaper did not appear to be threatening or show any hostility. Even if he wanted to say something, he was not sure where to begin and speaking to her about Althena did not seem to be the wisest thing ever. It did not take long before Reika would notice his presence and try to pet him, doing so for Mao as well. Except Nall only looked more concerned, unsure to fight it back.

Mao looked confused at first but simply nodded, still making hard to tell if Reika could hear this or not. She would head to the car while Nall followed Jumi. "Althena would be the one to check on me, not the opposite. Any communication would need the sword but Mitsuko had it with her. Reika couldn't have...", he started saying, wondering how much the reaper knew about Mitsuko and her connection to the goddess. "I am starting to think that it was not a good idea to leave her in her hands... That nasty girl would be a worse problem than Lenneth if she found a way to use that sword.", he commented, sighing before he entered the car, both then sitting on the back seat together. As they started going, Kaida had already taken to the air while the two pets remained quiet or at least for a moment. Mao appeared to look through the window as they moved but soon moved her little butt closer to the door while Nall looked at her with curiosity, wondering why she moved away from him. The answer was given not long afterwards as magic energy formed between him and her, pushing him to move away as well. As sudden as it came, Reika appeared on the car's back seat with an usual pleased smile while her eyes focused mainly on the front passengers. "Did I hear that you wanted to talk to me? Something on your mind?", she asked as Nall only stared in fear.

Nall was not sure about what he felt with Kaida but with her summoning a dragon, it was clear that a link was confirmed. Did he know her personally, though? Not as far as he knew. He didn't know many if any humans of this era but her feeling familiar at least made some sense now. What he felt about Althena however should probably be better explained. "I can feel Althena's magic. You could say that I do have a connection with her. But... Something feels odd and I can't just communicate with her as I like. I was sent to keep Mitsuko safe. Althena will let me know if she needs to say anything. Odin would not do anything to her, though. It would cause a lot of chaos if he did.", he explained, positive but still worried. Normally, he would be able to feel Mitsuko as well but since last time he tried, he could not do much to find her. "I still can't feel Mitsuko either but I am sure that something is going on. Whatever is going on, I don't like that feeling.", he told her but looked at Mao when Jumi glanced to her. Mao only eyed them both. "My mistress did not tell me anything about her... She only told me to stay with you.", she precised, unsure of what Jumi expected there, not knowing what she thought for Reika, whether she indeed was or not listening through her. Her expression remained otherwise calm and neutral as she sat still, just waiting. Nall however would agree with Jumi and wait to get to the temple and see what happens. Shinigami watched the priestess do her human thing with the machine and stepped back, waiting for her to be done. "So thing thing will do its, uh... thing, for a while. Good enough for me. I don't plan to stay here to watch it finish anyway.", the fox said, with a bit of amusement in her voice. As for what was next, it was time to get out there and get some food while waiting for the other to come back. In fact, they were taking a while, wherever they had gone. Perhaps they found something... Hopefully not troubles. "Right, food. Good... I'll be taking a look around as well, then. I'll see you around. If there's a need to deal with some troubles, come find me.", Shinigami warned Umi before leaving the room, first to go eat.

Kaida nodded to Jumi, giving her a gentle smile. "I will probably not go too fast. I doubt that the head priest would appreciate it. However, if I find it, I will stay above. Hopefully, it will not attract any unwanted or concerned attention. I will be waiting until you arrive... Staying in the air will not be a problem. If I see anything, I will lure any follower away. Be safe for now.", she said to them as she mounted it, waiting that Jumi would safely be away before she made the beast take off. Nall would simply stay quiet and follow Jumi wherever instead, along with Mao doing the same. Only when they arrived at the car and they went inside, did Nall watch Kaida fly off to the sky above. "So, she has a dragon... I almost thought she would transform as one. I knew something felt suspicious about her. Althena would probably like to hear about it. She has dragon friends too and the cutest one is right here.", he finally said, feeling a little proud of the last part, whether he was speaking the truth or not. Though, something of a concern suddenly seemed to trouble him while his expression changed from his playful one to something a little more serious. "Jumi... Maybe I'm wrong but I can feel something happening. I can feel Althena's magic normally but something feels different. I don't like it...", Nall expressed his concerns while Mao gazed at him but sat quietly. Shinigami made sure that she had her own clothes on before she left the room, at least for the sake of a bit of decency. She was curious to find out what means they had. Only carrying the sheets she had undone now, she followed Umi down the hall. She eyed the surrounding but otherwise remained close until they reached the room itself. "Hmm... These? More devices. Humans truly are ingenious, aren't they? Everywhere I look, you always have these machines doing things for you.", she remarked, stepping closer and looking at the one machine. She then put the sheets through the opening then stepped back. "At least you get things done... Now what?", Shinigami then asked, wondering how Umi would start this thing. The sooner they did, the sooner that their mess was going away so they could focus on eating and the rest of the day afterwards.

Despite the troubles so far, Nall at least felt excited to head for a new place to call home, trusting that Mitsuko would somehow be alright according to Jumi. He could not help but feel odd about something but he thought that it was probably nothing. Tenshi herself started gathering dishes and cleaning the table, letting them leave once they were ready to go, waving goodbye to them as Nall and Mao followed Jumi outside where Kaida was waiting patiently, looking at the sky a little, only pulled away of it by the Fairy coming to tell her that they were ready to go. With her implying that Kaida could also go with her own car, the Little Dragon had another thought but hesitated. Kaida was not the kind to show off but with Shinigami being at the temple as well, perhaps coming up front about who she was rather than hide it for the last moment was not the worst of ideas. It could also allow Jumi to see who they are really dealing with. Besides, she needed to wake her magic side up. "I think I will go by the air... Think you will be able to keep up?", she asked her, with a gentle smile. Soon, Kaida stepped back and started her transformation, her hair glowing some as she changed her clothes to one of a mage of sort, an impressive staff forming in her hands. As it was almost over, a magic circle formed behind her before a sizeable dragon soon flew out of it. As the beast landed obediently behind the mage, Nall's jaw only dropped, getting a form of confirmation about what was so familiar with her. Mao instead did not look impressed at all but her eyes did keep a close watch on that beast that was much larger than she was. Kaida stood there and eyed them. "This will be my ride... Although, I admit this will probably go faster, I will be close up there until we arrive. I can keep an eye in case anything happen or tries to follow you. Although, chances are their eyes will be on me. Please head back to the temple. Hopefully, my friend will not be a problem once there.", she told them, getting ready to climb onto her winged beast to ride it. Shinigami proceeded with what she had to do. Cleaning the sheets would have been easier with Mao being able to do things many can't exactly do. Even a "goddess" of death could not do all on her own, after all. But she still did it on her own in the manor so she didn't complain. Umi dressing up was an entertaining sight, at least. "I do not mind that... But I have to take care of them all by myself. I suspect you humans have a mean to wash dirty sheets and clothes. I will bring those there and put new ones here for this bed. Then... Eating would not be too bad right now.", she said to the priestess, showing her more casual nature and that she was still a beast that can get hungry.

Kaida was not surprised at the very least at the first part. Reika was always a mystery but that part of her and the questionable road she had chosen in her life only gave her a certain reputation added to what rumors spread at the school about it. Something Kaida would keep for herself as such thing probably was trivial for what they needed to know. She still had the one question in her mind: Why did Reika involve her? Sure, Kaida knew her, for reasons she could not quite explain to Jumi and the others, but was it the only reason? Not many who dealt with Reika at the time were still around. The event of the death had created quite some troubles at the schools for the students. For now, Kaida took care of the animals a last time, before she would leave them to Tenshi. Her absence would mean that Tenshi would be required to stay at the home for them. The school would be fine since they are prepared with other nurses, exactly in case something like this would happen. With Hikaru leaving as well, Nall and Mao did well to finish eating if they wanted to. Tenshi, for herself, barely spoke a word. What could she even say? Everything that she had heard was beyond any of her competences. It was something for Kaida to worry about... If only a special someone was there right now, maybe she could get some answers. That and maybe some cake to go along. Nall finally stretched and looked at Jumi. "So we're getting another friend along, huh...? I wonder what kind of name is "Little Dragon" and why she is named that. I sense something familiar about her but I can't put the paw on what.", he said while tilting his head and pondering. A gaze on tenshi but not for answer surprised the nurse who only widened her eyes but otherwise stayed quiet. Nall shrugged and just eyed Jumi again. "We have to go back to that fox and hopefully, she didn't cause troubles in the temple. I wonder if Reika can find her while we're not there... Do you think they would be in danger without us? Or will that godly presence smite her?", he playfully wondered. Kaida anyhow was soon done and went to her personal room to pick up some things, along with some medical resources. If she was going to check on Shinigami, if the possibility of that opened up, she needed some items with her. Her magic might be useful as well, in due time. After she was done and ready, she headed outside and waited a little, to make sure that everyone was ready. Best was to remain patient... If she was going to go in a car or the like with them, space should not be an issue anyhow, with Mao and Nall being so small. There was no way that they were taking a lot of space. She was not quite aware yet that Hikaru had already left and waited at the car already. Shinigami, on her side, waited that Umi was done to create a gate back to her bedroom. "Then this is where we head... Your clothes will be there and I will be cleaning the mess anyway. That should not take too long. I will be wandering on my own and maybe I will pick some food. Gotta recover that lost stamina.", she teased and went through, leaving the gate open for Umi to go through when she was ready. First step for Shinigami was to clean the bed sheets. Or at the least, put them away for them to be cleaned later. Find new ones... Put them on the bed anew. An odd thing for one beast of death, as she knew how to clean things, a little thanks to Reika showing things to her.

Kaida nodded to Hikaru, "Of course. I understand. And yes, you're correct... It is hard to believe than any single monsters could be a friend when so many came to try and hurt or use us... Most are taught that there can't be peace with them and they are mostly correct. It is good that one magical girl chose to help you escape with her magic. If Shinigami had done the same, people would have presumed that it was an attack. I suppose we have our ways to help the people and it's good that we will be trusted to do so. I think for the events of before, most people believe that this was done in order to protect them. I would not be surprised if the caster remained to explain." Despite the evidence for Jumi of who had done that magic, not everyone knew the Misty Terrain magic of Nymphia but unless she was improbably corrupted, it was believed that it was done for a good reason, like anything magical girls and knights did for the people in order to keep them safe. Kaida had not met the girl herself and she was not aware of everyone's abilities but other than a surprise, there was no harm known on her side about it. "Shinigami does sound like a good person... Or at least very different from what I knew of Reika. This makes me wonder how most people would react if they actually took the time to talk with her. Wishful thinking.", she then said. Obviously, it was not going to be this easy... Demons or non-humans could easily lie, manipulate, twist the truth. But at the same time, were humans really different...? For the time, the talk about what happened with Reika or even Shinigami was among the oddest but not surprising as it correlated with what she had heard happening at the convention. The rest however was nowhere near what she had expected to hear. The bits about Reika did not quite sound very surprising. "Could she have brought you into another dimension? Although, Reika being able to control dreams or nightmares would not sound crazy. Chaos is where she is comfortable.", Kaida remarked. From what she heard, it sounded like Shinigami was alone and had given up on a home and power to escape or be with Jumi and Mitsuko. Did Reika herself turn her creation against her or was it a darker plan in motion. Maybe Jumi had different opinions but with Reika, Kaida was not sure what to think. Mao however was a proof that something else was going on. "Sorry to hear that you all have been through a lot. It sounds like you have the world against you and no small enemies either. Take the moment to relax until you are ready to leave... I will do my best to help. But for now, it's best that I get ready and see the animals before we go.", she said, getting up to leave. Shinigami chuckled lightly, "Good girls... I guess they are. I don't know if I can play these games for long but they have good intentions. Reika has her ways and I did not want her to do anything to them. Besides, leaving her gifts behind sounded good at the time. All that power only served to scare them but without them, I am not all that different from them now except for this form. Maybe I even like getting the attention while I'm mortal. It's a fun world so far...", she thought, still pondering about what next fight she would find herself into. If Reika's ways were based on chaos, Jumi and Mitsuko's depended on subtlety. Still, that goddess pushed her to fight it out rough. More about children, this was not really a thought of possibility for Shinigami. The condition of her birth was more or less questionable but she understood pregnancy to an extent. Despite all the gifts she had, impregnating was not one of them. Unlike a demon, she was not made to reproduce but sexual fun was definitely not out of question, with the possibility to feel and give it all. "You might make a good mother. I will not know what this is like but I like other things like fighting... There are fun ways to do so as well.", she said with a smirk, approaching Umi and moving close to her face while touching her side. "Maybe it's time to go back...", the fox changed subject.