By the end of our training session, the mystery that was Joan didn’t get resolved. If anything, it deepened. The few times I managed to catch her completely off-guard she’d somehow explode out with an exact counter that got her out of the situation. It was odd, especially when in a proper fight, she didn’t appear to do well at all.

  It was quite the conundrum… Was Joan hiding something, or was she just really talented? I wasn’t sure.

  Liche though was a different story. She had some experience; I could tell that much. She was more geared to being sneaky, due to her power, and not in your face. Most of the time she was thrown about or beaten back, but given a chance, she was really good at sneaking in hits when I wasn’t expecting it. It was clear, as we were progressing, that she was in fact learning, even though I wasn’t sure what it was, she was learning.

  “Shit, you’re sure you have no talent?” Liche had asked after me beating her down for the umpteenth time.

  “Yeah, I don’t. I can follow the kata well, but I haven’t internalized the moves, at all. Which is why you’re even able to get hits in, surprise or not. If I were to use my ice, I’d be able to keep up without issue, but I’m not and its clear your beginning to understand my moves.”

  “Really? So, you’re like a video game fighter? You only have a set of moves, and you can’t exactly innovate?”

  “I wouldn’t know if that’s a right comparison, but… about. Once you see my repertoire that’s it. I can’t really learn on the fly, and I can’t innovate or do anything different with my moves, not really. Even if I do, it’ll lack the polish of my other moves. I can get away with a lot thanks to my ice sharpening my perception, but that’s only because I have time to shift through my moves.”

  “Huh… have you considered using silver coins for that? Aren’t they supposed to increase talent?”

  “I’d rather not honestly. Though… I’m not entirely sure why. Pride, maybe?”

  “Hoh? That’s an interesting answer boss, well, regardless, I have to get home, it’s getting late and I gotta get ice on these bruises…” Liche said while stretching as luridly as possible. Not that I cared.

  I checked my watch. “Mm, I’ll be staying behind. I’d like to get in my work out before I leave.”

  Liche chuckles. “I guess beating us down wouldn’t count as a workout then? At least Joan made a good showing.” Liche said, throwing her arm around Joan’s shoulder.

  “N-no! I didn’t do good at all, you just kept surprising me.”

  “No need to be modest Joan, I mean, Prima thinks you got talent, don’t you?”

  “I do, she’s definitely got talent.” I answer honestly. “I look forward to training you both more.”

  “I think you just like beating us up.” Liche said with a bit of mirth. “Anyway, we’re heading out, seeya boss.”

  “Seeya.” With that, they left, leaving me to get my workout in. Once done, I went to the warehouse and unpacked the last of my items I had stored in my car trunk.

  Overall, the warehouse hasn’t changed much since I last left. I had four dolls, two male, two female, and Cobalt my knight. Compared to the last time we met, they were all clearly moving with a bit more familiarity, with a bit more grace. Cobalt was clearly showing them how to dance.

  Greeting Cobalt, I went to work, placing my earned silver coin into the array I had placed at the center of the cold storage, and setting aside more dolls to animate. The process was notably less costly with my magic cycling through my body. There was a lot less waste, which meant that I could animate more dolls before it became too late.

  I showered, slept, the usual and went to work the next day. After work, I parked my car near the lower district and stopped at a café before meeting up with éclair.

  As always, I went into the alley, she met up with me, we went back to her place. Soon enough, I had my shirt off and she was checking me over.

  “Yup, you’ve got your magical energy fully cycling through your body. Congratulations!”

  “Thanks, so what now?”

  “Well, that’s about it, honestly. I’m not sure if there is more, but this step is pretty big. It’s simple, at least for us, but for mages and normal magic users, yeah, this step is a big one. Passively, your body is going to get strengthened and the rate of growth for your magic in both density and capacity will increase dramatically from here on out. Also, as an aside, magic will be a lot less wasteful.”

  “I could tell that much, but is that really it?”

  “About. From here, I can give you additional alchemical lessons, but that would take time. It’s a lot of theoretical stuff, and again, it won’t be any better than getting the grimoire.” I nod along, fully believing in what she said. “I can also teach you how to better control your magic, specifically, precision and such. It won’t make you faster on the draw, but it will make it easier to do precision work. Anything else will have to wait until you get your uniform.”

  “Anything you could teach me would be helpful.” Especially since I was planning on something that needed precision. Not that she needed to know what I was working on… well, I’d rather just see what I can do before relying on her. If I run into a wall, I’ll consider picking her brain.

  “Oh, and I can teach you how to suppress your magic, for when you don’t want to deal with a weak day. Almost forgot that.”

  “That would be valuable… how do I do that?”

  “Well, currently you have your magic cycling right? It should be flowing in tune with your heartbeat, yes?”

  I nod. “It is.”

  “Good, now, slow it down. Not too much, and I don’t mean use the magic, just kind of put the brakes on. Start slow.”

  It wasn’t hard to do. In a way, it didn’t feel much difference from having the ice in my veins. However, as I slowed the flow of magic in my veins, coincidentally, lowering the output coming from my heart, I was hit by a wave of lethargy.

  I didn’t stop though, I just kept going, trusting that she wasn’t messing with me. “Oh, that feels weird…” I mutter.

  “I imagine it does. Just keep going, and you’ll know when to stop.” She says, not so helpfully.

  Still, despite my growing skepticism of éclair’s methods, I followed her command. The more the flow of magic slowed, the stranger it felt. The more exhausted I felt, the more tired. My body felt both hot and cold, like it was struggling to regulate my temperature. I felt oddly clammy, queasy, and had a growing ache in my skull like I’d just woke up after a drinking binge.

  Only when I felt totally empty, no, not quite empty, just a small thrum, a low hum of power that ran through my veins. Nothing like the gushing river it had been before, not just a trickling stream. Did it stop.

  My body practically screamed. I could feel aches and pains all throughout my body. The wounds that still remained practically burned. It was somehow, even worse than my time of month. Like a constant cloud was hanging over me, sending chills down my spine. Like at any moment I’d fall ill.

  “So, how’s it feel?”

  “Ugh…” I mutter. “I feel like shit…” I really wanted a nap. No, I just wanted to lie down and do nothing…

  “That’s what happens when your body is magic starved. Your body will adapt if you keep doing it, and it can be a good way to regulate your cycle and prevent accidents.”

  “It feels awful…” I mutter. “Like I have the flu or something…”

  “Yeah, it can feel like that.”

  “Is this really the only way?” I had to ask.

  “If you’re in uniform, you won’t have to worry about your cycle. Though, the uniform has a passive upkeep on its own.”

  I glanced at her, “Is that your uniform?”

  “Yup.”

  “Are you always in it?”

  “About. There’s a few times where I exit.”

  “And?”

  “Well, when I exit my uniform, I have to be ready to crash and crash hard. It’s not nearly as dangerous as pushing myself, and forcibly suppressing my cycle with magic, but it isn’t pleasant. Magic regulation and keeping it at a low burn like this is a good way to minimalize the downsides of our cycle.”

  “I don’t think my time of the month is nearly bad enough to warrant this.”

  She laughs. And flashes me a smile. “Just wait till you get stronger, it gets worse. So much worse.” Ominous words aside, I press onto the next topic.

  “Any other applications?”

  “Yup, it’s also how you can help with uniform economy. Though, I will say this, as much as I say this can help alleviate cycle issues and also help your body to deal with energy deprivation, there is a significant downside for you.”

  “And that would be?”

  “As a rabbit, your growth is exceptional. You’re also young and new, and your body is still adapting to all the energy now flowing through your veins. Even when you get stronger, you’ll passively gain strength, slowly but surely just through cycling your energy. So, do keep that in mind.”

  Stolen from its original source, this story is not meant to be on Amazon; report any sightings.

  “And you don’t have those concerns?”

  “I’m a dog. Dog’s have terrible growth rates. For every point of energy you gain through training, a dog would be lucky to gain a tenth of that.”

  “I imagine there is a tradeoff?”

  “Yup, dog’s have much higher starting points, since Inu actually invests into us. We also learn skills and trades faster. Making us very good at background work. Plus, we are extremely good at learning to maximize our magic’s potential.”

  “Then how do you get stronger?”

  “Gold coins, primarily. Training and growing through fights aren’t worth it for us. Not when we need to put in ten times the work, or more, to even match a rabbit’s growth.”

  “That is good to know… Now, how do I stop this? I think I might pass out if this keeps up.”

  “Just slowly ramp up the speed. I’m not going to stop you, it’s your choice if you want to do this or not.”

  I consider briefly sticking with this, but… There was no way I was going to get any work done like this. Decision made, I let the cycling speed back up. Warmth shot through my fingers and toes, followed by the feeling of ants gnawing away at my extremities. I feel more alert as more time passes, almost like I was dosed with a shot of espresso.

  Once its back to normal speed, I feel not only more alive, but even better than ever… though… As the seconds pass that sense of euphoria begins to fade.

  “Is that what you feel like all the time?”

  “Eh, it’s a lot less noticeable when you’re in uniform.”

  “I can’t imagine having the will to put up with that, or the determination to keep that up…”

  Though… if I had to do it, I would do it. Especially if éclair said was true… I hoped it wasn’t.

  “Yup, people say I’m a woman of determination, of sheer fucking will, as some say.” She said all too smugly.

  “Can’t say I blame them. What next?”

  We worked through a few basic exercises which were supposed to help me with more complex uses for my magic. Mainly, freezing the ground in particular patterns to start with.

  “As you go on, and you get more magical power, you’ll better be able to conjure blocks of ice and such from the moisture in the air. Your weapon helps with the conjuring process, and guides you, but it doesn’t make up for practice.”

  I nod along as she explains more tidbits, up until it was time to go though…

  “éclair, mind telling me why you’re teaching me?”

  “Mm? Why? That’s simple.” She says with a smile. “The reason I’m helping you is because your useful.”

  “Useful?”

  “Yes, at least, I believe you will be. Grim seems to think so, and I think she’s an asset to the city as a whole too.”

  “And exactly how does that help you?”

  “The more magical girls, or chosen, whatever people like to call themselves, though, I’m all in for calling us magical girls, the more likely we can survive. See, every month something happens, but if the city is overwhelmed or monsters take a district, we could face a very serious situation. After all, if the city fails, we all die.”

  She answers calmly, despite the contents of her words and continues.

  “As strong as I am, as strong as many other magical girls are, none of us can hope to protect the city on our own. Even if we were to raise an army, even if we put everything we have into building up the infrastructure, eventually, something will come along that’s too strong for a single magical girl. Some factions aren’t too keen to teach newcomers, others don’t much care, and honestly, I believe we would all be better off if everyone was open to teaching others.”

  I couldn’t help but agree. “Teamwork makes the dream work, right?” I say and she nods.

  “You’re getting it! But yeah, I’m teaching you because I think you’ll be helpful to the city as a whole and to be honest, I thought the same when I first saw you. Which is why I wanted to draw your picture. Grim probably thinks the same, and I’m sure there are others keeping an eye on you.”

  “That is a daunting reality to be faced with.”

  “And yet, you’re smiling.”

  Was I? Ah, I suppose I was.

  “Either way, just keep doing whatever it is you are doing. The best anyone could do is to follow their heart, especially since magic is heavily influenced by your thoughts and feelings. So, just do what comes natural to you.”

  “I will and again, thanks.”

  “No problem.”

  “Ah, and before I go, Grim mentioned something about this blood moon being a tribulation. Have you heard?”

  “Yup, probably an invasion, since it’s been a while since the last one. If we’re really unlucky, it’ll be a tiger.” She answers back casually.

  “How so? What makes facing a tiger unlucky?”

  “Well, that means there one of us, a magical girl. Chosen specifically by Tora, the tiger mascot. They can be a mixed bag, but really, I don’t like having to kill other magical girls.”

  “Oh…” I said smartly… I wasn’t sure how to go prodding this conversation, so I didn’t. “Well, I just wanted to ask, and thanks again for the help, bye!” I said, practically flying out the door.

  “Bye and have a safe trip home!” She called as I left.

  “I will!” And with that, we separated.

  The next few days went about the same. Thursday was the bar, Friday I trained, or more like beat down Liche and Joan to the best of my abilities. Saturday came round and I was thinking of going into the sewers, which was a strange thing to have on my itinerary, but that was just my life…

  As I was leaving work though, I was stopped by Leo. This past week, he had fully settled into his job. More or less leaving me with nothing to do. I still found it strange, and really, I was just waiting for the next shoe to drop, so to speak. There was no way Leo was completely fine with what was going on.

  “Prima, mind looking over some of these documents?” He asked once we were in his office. I looked them over and…

  “Pretty good, you made a few mistakes here… and here…” I pointed out the parts he messed up. He sighs on seeing them.

  “I can’t imagine having to do this all my life.” He whined.

  “Well, you better get used to it. Even if you wanted to start your own business, you’ll need to know how to fill out forms and contracts.” I pointed out.

  He groaned in response and leaned back in his office chair.

  “You know what’s really amazing, the fact that you can do all of this and not get tired.”

  His words were clearly a compliment, but… They mirrored what that man said to me at one point.

  “Yeah… I suppose so.” Sensing the mood going awry, Leo quickly shifted the conversation.

  “Anyway, Prima, do you have plans tonight?”

  Sewers maybe… not like I was going to tell him that. “None in particular, why?”

  “How about you and me go for a drink? I know a place, and I’d like to talk to you about something.”

  “What exactly do you want to talk about?”

  “My father.”

  Heavy topic… but… “Fine, you’ll be paying, right?”

  “Of course, do I look like someone who’d let a lady pay?”

  My look said it all…

  “Yes, I’m paying.” He said in a defeated tone…

  I rode with him to a nearby bar. It was a nice place. A piano in the corner, currently untouched. Nice posh seats. A wooden counter that glowed under the warm lights. A bartender dressed to the nines with the most marvelous mustache that was clearly well taken care of.

  “If you keep making eyes at that bartender, I might get jealous…” Leo says after we settle in.

  “Jealous of what? That you can’t produce such an exquisite mustache?” I retort.

  He actually pauses and touches his upper lip for a moment. Eyes darting between me and the bartender who had clearly heard my words and preened in response.

  “I’m not getting into that…” He accepts defeat and backs down.

  Soon enough, our drinks were delivered. Simple glasses with amber liquid that burn oh so good as they go down.

  “So, what did you want to say, specifically?” I ask as we took our time to enjoy our drinks.

  “My father he… he isn’t a good man.”

  I rolled my eyes. I really did. “I could figure that much.”

  “Yeah, well, he and the rest of them are all just leeches. Shareholders for larger companies that built their wealth off a series of gambits and little more. The few businesses owners act as toadies and cling to the nearest thigh they can for benefits.”

  “Again, not a surprise.”

  “My father though, he’s a special kind of bad.”

  “Uh-huh…” I muttered along. Clearly not understanding the gravity of the situation, or at least the supposed gravitas that Leo was trying to put down here.

  “You don’t…” He sighs. “Okay, so, my father isn’t helping you out of the goodness of your heart. And yes, I know, you probably already figured that out, but it’s more than that. My father has a type. And, well, you fit that type.”

  “I’m aware, when you were gone, he was rather… clingy.” Just remembering how he had acted with me in his arms, that treacherous hand, how he’d taken his autonomy… Just the thought had me quaffing my own glass and demanding another.

  Leo looked at me with faint worry, but “What exactly is his type?” I asked after making sure my glass was filled back to the brim.

  He puts his head down into his glass. “Well, I mean, someone that’s strong, knows what they want, and how to get it.”

  “Oh… is that all, I doubt I’m the only woman with those traits, why me specifically?” And why was he blushing?

  “Your just… different. I pegged why you were in my division right off the bat.”

  “You did say as much when I confronted you. Really, you put me in a serious bind, you do know that, right?”

  “Yeah, and you kicked my ass for it.” He said with a slight laugh.

  We shared a laugh at that not so old memory.

  “But seriously, you’re my father’s type through and through, and he isn’t known for taking no for an answer. Especially when you’re so similar to my mother.”

  “Your mother?” I replied back, stupidly, I admit. “How do I remind him of your mother?” I ask, though, I do remember Leo’s father saying something about her. How she coddled Leo.

  “That…” He trails off. “She was a lot like you, and that’s about all I can say. But, he’s clearly aiming for that.” He said, though, distinctly, he was avoiding my gaze. There was still a faint blush on his face, and it had worked its way up to his ears… was Leo a lightweight too?

  “So, you think I’ll fall for his honey trap, is that it?”

  “Even if you don’t. I’m sure my father has a contingency, or some means to make you accept him.” Leo trails off and I just take slow sips of my alcohol.

  This wasn’t something I wanted to think about, especially not now. Was there a way I could use this to my advantage though? Leo’s father definitely had some pull… Could I use my new body to pull an upset? Maybe I could take over his assets in turn? It would be awkward, though… imagining Leo calling me mother would be…

  Okay that would be very weird… Not to mention, having to have a relationship with the man, going on dates… I don’t think I’m even ready to consider that, not in this body. Surely, if I get a gold coin…

  I had to blink and pause. Would I get my old body back if I had a gold coin? It wouldn’t be the most pragmatic thing. I still need my uniform. Plenty more power. Wasting a gold coin now might just stunt my growth. And for what? My dignity?

  I was prepared to strip naked and let Liche take pictures to blackmail me with. All in the name of sincerity. I had no dignity…

  Leo glanced over. “Please don’t tell me your thinking of actually dating my father.”

  His words shook me out of my thoughts, reminding me that this was not the time, nor place to think on this…

  “Me? No, absolutely not.” He looked unconvinced, but he didn’t press. “Anyway, why are you even concerned?”

  “Why wouldn’t I be?” He sounded a touch defensive.

  “Leo, I insulted you, and worse still, apparently your father is choosing me over you. He’s even planning to get you fired, just so that I can take your place. The last thing you should be concerned with, is if your father is trying to hook up with me…”

  I let those words sink in before continuing.

  “If I were in your shoes, I’d be thinking of how to take advantage of this. Maybe negotiate with your father-“

  He cut me off. “I’d never do that.”

  “But you were fine seeing me crucify myself before our business partners?” I bit back, he flinched, eliciting a wince of my own.

  “Sorry…” I muttered and went back to my drink. Mercifully, the bartender was pointedly looking away and ignoring us.

  We sat in silence and once again I was forced to wrap my head around my current situation. Like, why was Leo’s father even interested in me? How did it come to this? Not only was he old, definitely older than I was before falling down the rabbit hole, but the whole situation had my head spinning.

  I was never one to pursue a relationship. Even with Alex, it just kind of happened. After that, it was mainly my old boss trying to pimp me out to rich old ladies for favors, or their daughters for political ties.

  Stranger still, was how this whole situation was similar to being stared at by a hungry older woman looking for some fresh grass…

  Shaking my head, to scatter away those stray thoughts, I glanced over at Leo. He was looking at me, giving me the strangest of looks.

  “You’re still on me for that?” he finally said, barely a whisper. “Why?”

  “I’m not…” I start, not sure how to even continue this conversation. My tongue felt heavy, and inadvertently I sought liquid courage to bolster me. “I’m not angry, I never was. I never…” I paused, realizing what I said next wouldn’t help.

  “What? You never what?” He pressed.

  I steeled myself. “I never had any expectations for you.” I admitted and the way he blinked and shifted, almost like I’d physically slapped him.

  “You were a rich playboy. You drank, never did your job, showed up to work hungover and slept in your office during the day. What was I to expect?”

  He clenched his glass but downed his drink. I couldn’t quite read his description as he asked for another drink.

  Eventually, he did speak. “You weren’t wrong… but, I’ve changed, haven’t I?”

  “You are doing better. And… it has been impressive.” I admit.

  “But it’s not enough?” He says, interrupting me.

  It was a fair question, a good question… In the end, I quaffed the rest of my drink in a single go and spoke.

  “Not nearly enough.”