Terms of Agreement

A/N: I had to have Friedman insert this chapter for me after "A deal is struck" was published as I somehow lost this chapter which belongs between the previous one and the next chapter. If you're just joining us, you won't notice a difference. For my returning readers, sorry about that!

Special thanks to Friedman once again for the help and quick response.

You and Rider follow Illya into a large room with chairs, couches, coffee table, and grand fireplace. Bookshelves line the walls stuffed with what must be ancient tomes given the amount of dust that's collected on the spines and shelves.

You sit down in one of the chairs, and Illya sits across from you. Behind Illya stands the ever-massive Berserker, a stalwart reminder that you're in the presence of his Master. "So, onii-chan. As you can no doubt see, my Berserker is stronger than any servant! Hu~hu~hu~" Illya laughs creepily, then turns to you wearing a sinister grin on her face.

"But he's not perfect., Berserker here lacks speed, subtilty, and most importantly, steath. That's where you come in. The servant Caster is syphoning Mana from the people of the city to her lair at the Temple." You are stunned at the revelation. "You mean she's stealing the life **** of innocent people!?" You ask.

Illya nods. "She sure i-iis!" Illya sings. Illya's smile then flattens as she takes on a serious tone. "I personally find the practice disgusting since I have more than enough Mana for my servant. From what I've gathered your servant also has these capabilities but you won't let her use them." Illya says, playing right into your hand.

You nod. "Yeah. That's right. As you said, there's no way I could hurt innocent people like that." "And that is why you need to interfere." Illya replies. "For our alliance you will help me take down Caster. You will send your servant to intercept the Mana Caster's leeching to power your servant since you are no Magus. In return you get my help opening up your magic circuits. I'll even graciously allow you to use some of my Mana reserves for yourself. Not to mention Berserker here." Illya grins as she looks over to Berserker and holds out an open palm towards him.

You gulp and look over at Rider. "This is your call, Master but taking this alliance would be beneficial." Rider says. When you turn to face Illya, she's standing up right in front of you and staring you down. "So, what do you say?"