A deal is struck!

"Well, Onii-chan? Don't keep me waiting." Illya says, continuing her stare-down. You look over at Rider. "Is that something you can do?" Rider nods. "Yes, that would work. I can place Blood Fort Andromeda against Caster's Mana bank and steal the energy she's taking before she gets it. The task will be very difficult, and Caster is probably the worst servant to try that against. She'll notice my interference immediately, making us her new target."

You gulp and turn back to Illya. She's still waiting for your response. You catch a glimpse of the muscled Berserker and decide that refusal now would probably spell your ****. You'd be deep in enemy territory with a monster of a servant and surrounded by a gigantic forest. You nod. "Yeah. Let's team up."

A twisted smile breaks Illya's lips as she stands up. "Good. I'm glad you see things my way. As part of our agreement you'll have to take care of Liz and Stella tonight. You'll have to choose one who will accompany you home and stay with you so I can keep tabs on you. Don't disappoint her." Illya grins.

Just great. What have you gotten yourself into? "First things first though, we need to open your magic circuits. You're no Magus with a measly 27 magic circuits, but something is better than nothing~! I'll also generously let you use some of my magic reserves." Illya sings. "You'll owe me big-time after this is done, onii-chan. Let's start."