Albion had went on first, leaving Scorched Girl with the others. Reaching the next path. Seeing two individuals who were enjoying a cup of tea. A man with white hair and moustache. Brown trench coat that barely concealed the 2 broadswords by his waist while the zweihander was on his back.
Short green hair with sharp eyes, a cello case to her back. Wearing a light gray coat. Both of them enjoying tea as they glanced over to him.
"So it seems that we've been booked and brought to life as Librarians. So you must be the new director?" Salvador asked where Albion gave a nod, Salvador and Yuna put their cups down, walking over with hand to their chest bowing to Albion.
"I am Salvador. Malkuth Floor Captain. I won't say it is a pleasure."
"My name is Yuna, the 2nd in command of the floor."
"It's fine. I know that you were booked here. I became the Director recently. So tell me about your path. I don't see weapons or pages for me to conquer."
"This was mainly due to your capability in taking down the Keter's Path within 1 month. You may only take Unique Receptions. Of course we will join you in the Unique Receptions." Salvador said where Albion looked at the list.
A few more receptions from your world have been added.
Grade 1 Fixer
Unit 9.
The Spirit of Vengeance ( New Abnormality)
The Forgotten One. ( New Abnormality)
The Whispering Flames (New Abnormality)
The Smiling Violence( New Abnormality)
The Determined Heart.
Cerulean Blade.
"New abnormalities?"
These are Abnormalities that have made their appearance from your world.
Based on tales spread by the people.
These ones suit the floor.
What will you choose?
Albion turned to Salvador and Yuna who were standing behind him, waiting for orders. Perhaps they wanted to know more about the situation?
"Any tips or any recommendations?"
"None. Only the Fixers are familiar to us. the others? Not so much." Yuna said as Albion thought about it.
"Cerulean Blade." The light shined as the three of them stepped inside.
Seeing a figure wearing a purple and black coat, with a purple katana. Standing there with black long hair tied into a tail, the environment itself was an arena of ice which was surrounded by a body of water.
Albion, Salvador and Yuna looked over to the figure who gave a nod. It was a lifeless figure, just a page that he could use. Either way, it was a powerful foe. Albion could feel the strength reaching him. It was like when he faced the Snow Queen. This figure however, was something else. Oozing the power of ice. Strength in that relaxed grip of the blade? It was nothing short of a deception. This felt like the fight with the Red Mist but this particular figure was one who had techniques of a master, something that Albion didn't have. Which would be discerning. A master's strength against an untrained blade was an easy fight.
The master would win regardless. This name. Cerulean Blade was familiar to Albion. Perhaps a tale that was left untold by a certain few Hunters but even so.Albion was not going to stop there. He had to at least try his best. Salvador and Yuna joined the fight with Salvador using the broadswords to create an opening while Yuna unleashed her cello case that opened up with metal blades chasing down the Cerulean Blade.
Albion leaped into the air with his katana from Mook Workshop. Going from above, where the Cerulean Blade swiped the blades from the Librarians off course, then drawing his katana to block Albion's attacks. The normal fast slashes from the Page of Black Silence normally would do many enemies in, but not against him.
A step in mid-air, as the Cerulean Blade clashed with Albion's katana. The strike alone sent Albion flying into the air.
"White Reflection." He heard the distorted voice speak, slashing him down in an instant. The environment had reacted as the water began to ripple as a result of the attack. The moon and sky that was behind Albion had shattered. Whatever this attack was, it was strong enough to break Albion in his current state. Luckily, using negate to reduce the damage was enough but, Albion could not move.
Even if he managed to negate the attack. It didn't mean he was safe from the effects. His body felt heavy, and his limbs were trembling. This much power in a foe like him? Albion was a little nervous at the thought of facing such a figure in the true state.
Unchained Lynx + True Lynx are resonating.
True Lynx + Unchained Lynx details unlocked.
True Lynx.
Increases combat power, ignores HP damage. If HP goes below 0, you will suffer mental damage.
DEF is converted into ATK with a multiplier of 5.
Unchained Lynx.
Doubles ATK + DEF stat, HP is reduced to 50HP.
Good against facing multiple enemies.
It needed time to sort itself out. You can only use one or the other,
"True Lynx." Albion said as they see his eyes glow crimson, charging again at the Cerulean Blade. The change was like night and day. It was just a replica of the individual, not the true nature of the individual. The fight changed to match one another. Yuna and Salvador stayed back, clearly they were seeing Albion in a frenzied state. Something much different.
A lynx fighting against a fellow predator, they would take damage from one another but that didn't stop the situation from escalating. The Cerulean Blade was at a disadvantage but Albion had already acquired enough strength to at least push the Cerulean Blade back. A block of his blade from the side. A jab to the face, followed by a throw. Albion closed the distance with the lance, then using a knife to stab the throat.
The Cerulean Blade was taken down and turned into a page.
> The Cerulean Blade.
>
> Known as a Hunter with the name of Minamoto Kisaragi. The Cerulean Blade was a title given to him as the Sakura Empire's S-Rank. The most powerful swordsman the country has ever produced. His death was due to being betrayed and he fought to the bitter end.
>
> His blade is known as the Stormbringer. His swordsmanship is known as the Water Dragon.
>
> The Cerulean Blade to be freed requires the Actualization of the Snow Queen.
> For her frost was given to him, in order that he would be able to awaken once more.
>
> A man of conviction. He'd rather choose death than surrender.
> The Cerulean Blade's technique of the White Reflection is his most powerful attack. However, the puppet cannot grant it life.
>
> Called a traitor, his death was nothing more than that of a dog's death.
Albion was thinking about it, but he already had the Snow Queen's actualization. How was he going to approach this?
Will you book him or will you free him?
Freeing him will grant you the technique but turning him into a book. Will allow you to use his weapons.
"I've got Frost Blade and Frost Touch. I'd prefer not to trouble him anymore. He should get his life back."
Understood. Cerulean Blade Minamoto will be freed. Snow Queen has freed him from his frost.
He will be waiting at the lobby.
Albion turned to Salvador and Yuna.
"Thanks for helping. Sorry if I put you two in danger."
"When we were Fixers. Being in danger is part of our life. Truthfully, you're quite powerful yourself." Yuna said as they headed back to the lobby, seeing Scorched Girl wearing a dress.
"Hi!" Albion patted her head.
Stolen content warning: this tale belongs on Royal Road. Report any occurrences elsewhere.
"Did you have a good rest?" She gave a smile and a nod.
"Hello, Director." Snow Queen spoke up as she gestured to the Cerulean Blade who was standing by her side.
"So I owe my life to you?" Minamoto spoke with a casual tone, offering a handshake.
"Yeah.. Is there any way for you to teach me that sword technique of yours?"
"Of course. It's no big secret. I can teach it to ya. I'll also be joining you as a Librarian. Besides if I came back to life, a lot of people would be suspicious. So I'll need a new name."
"What about Takibi?" Minamoto chuckled giving a nod. This time he was given a demon mask to wear.
"This works for me. I'll be Takibi from now on." Minamoto or rather Takibi said as he put on the mask.
"The second abnormality for Malkuth has awakened, Director. I suggest you take on this abnormality alone." Snow Queen spoke where Albion smiled to her.
"You're awfully chatty."
"Actualization does that. The Scorched Girl's EGO pages are being fixed. So it will operate the same as mine. Actualizing Abnormalities allows them to be used and synchronized with you. In different ways. It also allows you to summon us when needed. Bloodbath, Pinocchio and the Heart of Aspiration.. It will require you to actualize the floor to get them as summonable beings to your world. We can also be summoned by the Librarians if needed. Only if the Patron Librarian gives his blessing." Snow Queen explained as she touched Albion's cheeks.
"You're a warm person. I hope you stay that way."
"Not exactly a kind person, Snow Queen. I'll go check on that Abnormality." Albion said as he looked at the pop up menu.
Actualization.
Scorched Girl Completed.
Ashes Increases burn chance on enemies by 100%.
Burn stacks.
Multiple strikes will activate other abilities together. Fourth Match Flame. Creates a beast of flames to accompany you during combat.
It's current form is Lynx. It will upgrade into something else depending on your growth. Matchlight. You will receive 20 matches in a box.
Each match may be used to create fire based attacks.
You may even coat your blade with fire.
Coating an ice element with fire will create steam and attach an explosive element to it.
"I think that it'll be enough for today. I need to headback and rest. Takibi's attack did a number on me." Albion said as he stretched his tense shoulders.
"Understood, Director. The two of us can't leave the Library until the 5th path is unlocked." Salvador informed as Albion left first. Waving goodbye to the others while Scorched Girl sat by the lap of the Snow Queen. The Abnormalities did the same waving at him, as Albion went back. Arriving at the orphanage. Hearing the happy voices outside, Albion checked it out. Sister Andrea and Olivier had worked up a feast for everyone. Angelica was poking fun at Roland who was hammered with a few drinks. While watching Argalia and Roelica chug down bottles of alcohol like they were just plain water.
Nikolai and Ryn were having a headache from all of that. Albion checked social media. It was blowing up with photos and videos of the Fourth Pack's skills. The monsters inside were consisting of elemental wolves, elemental bears and anything that were predators. Yet, the Fourth Pack was valiant. They took down the targets with extreme prejudice. Nikolai rallied the downed Hunters to their feet with the might of her voice.
"Just because you are prey! Doesn't mean you give up! Even the most docile creature would fight back when cornered." Nikolai's words had inspired the Hunters to fight back. The Rhinos bulldozing through the enemies while the Rabbits handled things with surgical precision. The Reindeers were focusing on damaging the beasts senses, throwing them off with magic that they had acquired.
Acquiring more books for them to use which Albion gave them the right to do so without much hesitation. He made it clear that whatever they kill is theirs to burn at the library. Seemingly enough, they can transition in and out of the library without any issues. With Scorched Girl around, it meant that books can be burned where ever they are but it would take a few day or two before the effects kick in.
The sight of the children who were happy that their bellies were filled was good, and Albion was looking at the accounts. The Lynx Office had already made quite the stir and their bank account had at least 2.5 million credits. Which Albion would be planning to use to pay off the Dust Pipes to get them to lay off.
If they refused, well. Albion could always just end their lives. It wasn't something that he was concerned about but business is business.
The next day came along, Roland, Argalia, Roelica and Angelica were making their way to the Association, this time going to take on an A-Rank Dungeon but before that. The four of them headed to the mall that was nearby the association. The four of them headed to a nearby cafe, where the sight of the group had caught the attention of Hunters and civilians alike. Roland ordered a black coffee for his hangover, Argalia was taking a latte while Angelica and Roelica got themselves ice chocolates with whipped cream.
"Black coffee? You seem to be looking a little grim, brother in law."
"Shut it, Argalia." Roland said as he sipped on his coffee, slowly being awake.
"So the Director unlocked Malkuth's floor. Did you get to see Salvador?"
"Not yet. I'll prolly greet him later." Roland said as he downed the cup of coffee, then throwing cup away. Angelica and Roelica were following the pair from behind. Roland and Argalia were bickering as usual, the A-Rank dungeon in question was a raid in a world where there were elves. Something that Roelica seemed excited about, telling the others about the elves.
Known for their beauty and figure.
"They might think Uncle Argalia's an elf."
"Because of this?" Argalia pointed to the earpiece, where Roelica nodded as they headed into the Association. Seeing the board that had their names in the Dungeon Raid party list.
"Let's go." Argalia tapped the button, as they were teleported to the dungeon area. Now the four of them were going to make their way in with the A-Rank Hunters who were curious to their powers. Argalia was humming a tune out loud while Angelica and Roelica were still sipping their cups of ice chocolate. Roland was just scratching his head. The gloves radiated silence as they walked on over. The silence lifted itself as they stood in front of the A-Rank Hunter's Raid leader.
"So you're the S-Ranks? You don't seem that strong to me." One of them said, showing off her shiny rune armor.
"The Association said we're S-Ranks. You got an issue with it? Bring it up with the association." Roelica snapped at the woman in armor. Glaring at Roelica for those words but Roelica couldn't care less.
"Easy, little blue. We're here to help." Argalia calmed her down but even then he could see the resemblance to Roland. The same kind of fury Roland had when he lost Angelica. Angelica flicked Roelica's head.
"Ow! Mom what was that for?"
"Stop acting a lot like Roland. You're so up tight!" The word mom had some of the Hunter members surprised.
"Dad, am I uptight!?"
"Sheesh. Go easy on our daughter, Angelica. You might snap her neck if you flicked any harder!" Angelica pouted as she turned her head from Roland. Where Roland let out a sigh and was readying himself for the fight.
"We're stepping in now! Let's go! S-ranks. I can't command you guys because you're stronger than us but... I hope you'll help us make it through this."
"Save those feelings for later. We got a job." Roland said as they stepped in. Finding themselves standing before an army of elves that had them surrounded. Faces filled with disgust as magic subdued most of the Hunters, save for the Four Librarians.
"Ah, Humans! Prepare to di-" The leading elf's head flew into the air, Argalia's scythe had blood on it. Argalia clicked his tongue while Roland, Angelica and Roelica readied their katanas, going in with the full assault. Lacerating the limbs, slicing off fingers. Whatever these elves were trying to say. It wasn't heard by the four librarians. Switching the katana out for a pair of short swords. A waltz with blood and blades as pure silence took over. Nothing could be said, only the sound of flesh being cut and chopped was heard.
The Vibration on Argalia's scythe was stacking with each hit. Same goes for the Silence. Swapping weapons repeatedly, the three Silences were in sync with one another. Roelica swapped to the scythe to match her uncle's movements. Both of them hummed a tune while Angelica and Roland fought without much noise.
The Silence and the Vibrations were resonating with one another. A rumble to the ground as the elves who couldn't use their magic grabbed their blades. Superior swordsmanship of their kind. Belief in their powers, yet before the four Librarians. They were hardly putting up a challenge. It was as if the four of them could see through the elven techniques. The faces of the elves realizing the danger before them?
A priceless expression which they see Argalia grinning ear to ear as he cut them down with ease. Roelica had Roland's wrath in her hands but she had the calm expression of Angela. The Father's wrath and the Mother's smile. Mastering the two Black Silence styles and the Blue Reverberation's scythe techniques. Roelica was clearly meant for something else.
The mix and match of attacks, an arsenal of techniques that could connect to each other like dots in a line. Mixing up the gauntlets to claw them, then using the hammer and mace to break their joints. Switching up to the lance to pierce through a column, leaping into the air as she drew out her pistols. Unleashing lead from above, raining down like hail. No way to escape the randomized patterns, indiscriminate gunfire. When Roelica landed, Angelica and Roland were by their daughter's side.
"Silenzio Furioso." The three of them whispered as they went out on their attack. Starting with the guns, then swapping to the gauntlets to carve their way through. The knife for lethal strikes to those that fell before them. Movements getting faster by the minute, their footwork changed drastically. Synchronized assault with the blades, ripping through what was left of the eleves as Angelica ended with her short swords while Roland and Roelica finished it up with the Durandal. Roland and Angelica stepped back to grab the downed Hunters aside. Clearing the path while Argalia was holding his vibration.
"Argalia! You're clear!" Angelica shouted as Argalia stood with his niece. Backs turned to each other with the scythe in hand.
"Let's go little blue!"
"Right!" They leaped into the air.
"Crescendo!" Glowing in a faint blue light as they tore through the elves. Humming a tune that would be the one last thing they hear to their demise. Reaped away like cattle awaiting their slaughter, Roland and Angelica were there to watch the show. Nothing more and nothing less.
By the end of it, the elves were left as nothing but body parts just hanging around them. The other Hunters were able to free themselves from such a state.
"I wonder why we weren't affected?" Roland thought first.
It is primarily due to Bloodbath's Effect.
Bloodbath will ensure that Keter Floor Librarians will not be affected.
Due to being friendly with the Director.
Abnormalities are now giving bonus effects.
Bloodbath's Pale Hands now work to counter enemy paralysis and other things.
Pale Hands now grant passives to all Librarians of Keter.
Suppression Unit will now have their own abnormalities to deal with.
"Oh they have their own abnormalities? This might be difficult."
Of course their abnormalities are mainly combatants of this world.
Since in the Original Library there was no need for Suppression Unit.
They will be alerted to when they have to go back to the Library to face an Abnormality.