A Fake Hero

by Ray O'Neill

This isn't the story of a boy who dreamed of becoming a hero of justice. That's someone else's story. This is the story of a boy who simply wished to protect his family and loved ones... but it came at a heavy price... one that I later came to regret. Everything changed when I accepted that offer... and shouted those two words.

4. Stray Hunt I

Disclaimer: I do not own Fate/Stay Night or Highschool DxD, or any of its character's, and make no money of this.

Warning: The later part of the chapter contains gore elements. You're discretion is advised.

---

I always knew something was different about me...

I never truly understood what it was.

Not until I saw the horrified looks of the people around me.

What horrified them... what should have horrified me...

I wrote it off as something normal.

---

Chapter 4:

Stray hurt I

---

I sometimes wonder if all families are like mine. More specifically, I wonder if all families act like mine during dinner.

''Hands off Maiya, I saw it first.'' Iri glared at Maiya-san who was sitting on the other side of the table. ''You already had one.''

''Yeah, well I reached for it first.'' She returned the glare to Iri. ''Besides you already had two.''

I could see sparks forming between the two older women. The sensation they are giving is akin to that of two bitter rival's one step away from starting their final battle to settle everything once and for all.

The reason of their behavior... an egg roll.

It seems that Maiya-san reached for the last egg roll that Iri was planning on eating. As always things escalate really fast when it comes to this two women.

I sighed and rested my head against the palm of my hand. Things sure have been crazy these past days.

''They certainly are lively.''

I sighed. I really can't believe I'm actually doing this.

Yeah... at least I can't complain of getting bored.

My eyes drifted around the other people at the table. Liz was munching the food in front of her like a chipmunk, Illya and Miyu were eating normally. I then looked at the person who wasn't sitting at the table.

Sella was still washing the dishes. I told her that I could do it, but no. She insisted that I can't go around stealing her job.

A small smile formed on my lips as I looked at her. This is the way thing should be, like they always have been. Even with this drastic change in my life I feel that things are starting to go back to the way they were.

''You know, it's not really nice to stare.'' The voice commented with an amused tone. ''I can see that Sella has a really nice butt, but you shouldn't stare at it so fiercely.''

I instantly chocked when I heard his comment. If I had any liquid in my mouth I would have probably done a perfect spit take.

The people around me saw my sudden reaction and looked at me confused. ''Is something wrong Onii-chan?'' Illya asked me.

I quickly waved my hands. ''N-No everything is fine, I just chocked on some food.'' I lied through my teeth, hope she buys it.

''Lying to your little sister? Now that isn't very nice from you.'' the voice chuckled at me arrogantly.

Will you shut up already Archer! If I knew that trying to use my powers will get me stuck with a guy like you in my head, I wouldn't have done it in the first place!

''I'm not happy about our current situation as well, besides with our luck, even if you didn't use my powers that time, you would have used them in the future, so it couldn't be avoided.''

Man...

Just what kind of divine being did I piss off to get stuck with this guy in my head?

If only I knew what I was getting myself in a few days ago...

---

A few days have passed since my official enrollment in the student council. When Kaichou said she is strict she sure wasn't kidding. While the book that she gave me did cover a good amount of information and knowledge that a beginner devil requires, it was still beginner stuff. The next following days she has been drilling information that we will require, and she sure didn't leave room for complain.

At least I was smart enough to bring a notebook and write everything down. I don't think I could remember all of the stuff that she taught us in such a short amount of time.

When I asked the others if this is something common here, they smiled brokenly at me and said 'Try to hang on.'

Saji, who was full of bravado the first time I met him suffered the most. By the end of the day he would look like he suddenly lost a lot of weight and his skin lost most of his color. Kinda like a ghost.

That was the theoretical part of our training. The physical part of it was a whole different story.

Both Saji and I were waiting on the couch in the council room to start figuring out our powers. Apparently Kaichou wanted to test something out before we begin our training.

In my bored I began looking at the other members of the student council. As the days went by, I got to know them better, and each one of them were interesting in their own way.

''I brought it Kaichou.'' Yura, the groups Rook said as she opened the door with her leg since her hands were busy carrying a rather large box.

''Good work. Place it on the table please.'' Kaichou told her blue haired servant as she got up from her desk.

When she put the box on the desk, she began opening it, the other members of the council gathering around us as she did. When she was done, a weird looking crystal ball was revealed. Weird because it's rested on three bone looking legs. If I were to comment on it, it look like something a stereotypical witch in fiction would use.

''What is this Kaichou?'' I asked her rather intrigued, are we gonna try and do some sort of prediction or something?

''I'm glad you asked Emiya.'' She said as she took a seat in front of us. ''This globe is a device used by devils to determine ones elemental affinity.''

''Elemental affinity?'' Saji narrowed his eyes as he stared at the device.

''Exactly. All magic and supernatural beings possess a certain affinity or compatibility to certain elements, due to biological or spiritual reason. Its believed that a person who has an affinity to an certain element may have an easier time understanding and utilizing powers and spells of the same element as their affinity.''

''So their elements basically means what magic they can use?'' Saji asked half confused.

''Yes and no. Ones affinity only tells one what type of power he is most compatible with, but it doesn't limit his options. I for instance have a high affinity for water element which I inherited from the Sitri bloodline, but I am also proficient with most elements.'' Kaichou explained.

''So how many elements are there?'' I asked curiously.

''It usually depends by which branch of magic you are taught from. The most common and the one most devils use is the standard European five element system which is Fire, Earth, Water, Wind and Lightening, but there are other classifications like Taoist system that covers Water, Fire, Earth, Wood and Metal.''

Hhmm interesting. Guess it's a matter of system. ''If you say that those are standard elements, do you mean there are non-standard ones?''

''Very perceptive. Non-standard elements are elements resulted from a fusion of a different number of elements or some sort of magic influence or mutation that creates unregistered elements.'' She elaborated to us. Don't know why, but for some reason non-standard elements seem to piqued my attention. ''The best example I can give you is my sister. Her element is Ice, this element was created because she had a high affinity for both water and wind element, the two of them merging and forming the non-standard element ice.''

This is most interesting. Now that I think about there was a video game that I used to play with Illya. If I'm not mistaken there were some elements that were created by combining different ones. Like by combining earth and fire element you could create a lava element, or by combing fire or water you could obtain steam. While those were from a video game and this is here is real life, it still useful as a reference. ''What elements do the others have?'' I asked curiously, Kaichou already said that she is compatible with most of them, so there's no reason to ask.

''My elements are water, earth and lighting.'' Shinra-senpai answered first.

''I have earth and metal element.'' Tsubasa puffed her chest proudly. I wonder if it's because she is a rook, but those elements seem to match her piece.

''Fire and wind are mine!'' Meguri laughed proudly.

''I have only wind.'' Ruruko scratched her cheek with and embarrassed look, guess she was feeling a little awkward because she had only one element.

''Mine are fire, water and lighting.'' Hanakai smiled and made a V-sign with her hand.

''I possess fire, wind, and earth.'' Kusaka raised three fingers with her hand.

I took a quick glance towards Saji. His face was really stunned. ''Wow, you two have three each?'' he asked with a rather jealous voice as he look at Kusaka and Hanakai.

''Bishops usually have high compatibility with most elements. Three is actually a common number for bishops.'' Shinra-senpai explained to the blond pawn.

''I wonder how many I have?'' Saji wondered out loud, his arms crossed and his eyes staring at the ceiling. He isn't the only one wondering what element he has.

''This is what this device is for. To tell you.'' Kaichou said as he touched the base of the device, the said device starting to glow, inside it a cloud of smoke forming. ''Just place your hand on it and it will read your magical signature, discovering its affinity.''

''Ok... here goes nothing.'' Saji was the one to take the initiative. He slowly and carefully placed his hand over the globe, as if very carefully touching broken glass while trying not to cut himself. The globe began glowing in a rainbow like series of colors. ''Tickles.''

As the light died out inside the globe two small spheres formed. One was red and the other black. Inside each of it was written a kanji. I could hear Kaichou letting out a small awe sound. ''Interesting. Fire and darkness. Fire may be common, but darkness affinity is very hard to find. You have a rare combination.''

''Hear that Emiya?'' Saji laughed arrogantly and puffed his chest as he looked at me. ''I'm a rare type.''

Letting aside the fact that Saji was acting arrogant again, which had become something of a daily ritual during our interactions, I couldn't help but stare at the black sphere in the device. I looked towards the team's bishops for information. ''A quick question. I can imagine how fire element works, but what about darkness?''

The first one to answer was Hanakai. ''Darkness element usually involves magic and powers that are related or have curses at base. Since Saji has it, he may become very skilled in wielding curse magic.''

''I see.'' I nodded. So he has a lot of potential of becoming support for the group, in games curses usually act as a way to weaken or restrain an enemy.

''Now let's see what you are Emiya.'' Tsubasa began pushing me from the back.

''Come on, come on. I'm really curious what yours is!'' Meguri said all exited, gesturing with her hands up and down. I can't help but wonder how much sugar does this girl eats.

''Fine, fine.'' I sighed in defeat, no need to rush, it's not like the device will run away or something.

I slowly touched the device and let it do its job. Unlike Saji who felt a tingling sensation, it was more of a stinging sensation for me, kind of like a needle. I looked at Kaichou who was starring intensely at the device, I could see some confusion in her eyes. I looked at the globe and in it was lone a grey sphere, but it was backwards and I couldn't see what was written on it. ''Well?''

She was silent for a few moments, she then looked me in the eyes, and there was only seriousness in hers. ''Emiya... would you be kind and touch it again?''

I was wondering if I did something was wrong, but I tried to go along with her request. ''Sure... I guess.''

I repeated the process, the end result appeared to be the same. ''So?''

She was silent, she arranged her glasses slowly after a few heavy seconds. ''I don't know how I should explain this...''

''What?'' I asked confused, just what could I have done to screw up something that looked so simple. ''Please don't tell me I don't have any affinity.''

''No... You do have one, it's just...'' she turned the globe towards me, everyone in the room gathers behind me and tried to look at the result. ''I never heard of anything like this.''

When the globe was turned I saw what it was written inside of the sphere. ''It says that your affinity is 'Sword'.'' Nimura commented in awe.

''Sword?'' I tilted my head confused, somehow while it sounded very weird, it also felt very appropriate at the same time.

''Wait, is 'sword' supposed to be an actual element?'' Yura asked unsure of what she was seeing.

''No, that's why I asked him to repeat it.'' Kaichou said as she rubbed her temple. ''If it were something close, like steel or metal, I could have understood, but I never heard of such an element before.''

''What do you think this means Kaichou?'' Kusaka inquired of her master.

''I'm not sure. For all I know, we might just have witnessed the discovery of a new brand of element.'' She deduced as she tested the device on herself to see if it was ok. Judging by her expression it was.

''Oh~ so does that mean that Emiya is so kind of super unique type?'' Meguri deduced as she pounded her fist into her open hand.

''It would seem so.'' Kaichou nodded a bit reluctant.

''Damn you Emiya! You just had to be something unique and cool sounding like a sword!'' Saji cursed under his breath. It's not like I had any choice regarding what element I have you know...

''But if Emiya's element is sword, then what kind of magic could he be compatible with?'' Shinra-senpai asked our master with a while cupping her chin. That actually is a good question.

''Not many to be honest.'' Kaichou admitted in defeat. ''While I don't know the exact details, there are magical arts meant to be implemented in swords and other weapons, but their mostly support and enhancement techniques. Perhaps some of those might be recommended for him.''

''So his unique element actually limits his choices.'' Nimura deduced.

''It depends actually. Until he practices other types of elemental magic and see how he fares we can't say for sure.'' Kusaka explained.

''Wow. I sure am lucky.'' I commented sarcastically with a sigh. Talk about irony, my element is so rare that there isn't much magic involving it.

''Should I check our magic books for any sword related magic Kaichou?'' Kusaka asked, the braided girl probably wants to help me out.

''Later.'' She declared as she got up from her seat, her eyes full of vigor. ''Now that we know their respective elements, it time to witness their powers.''

---

''You sure it's ok we do it here?'' I asked a little unsure of the place Kaichou has selected as a test ground for our powers. The school gym to be exact.

Hanakai waved her hand and smiled at me without a care in the world. ''Its fine, we set up several barriers around the building. Even if something were to explode in here no one would notice.''

''That's reassuring.'' I commented with a hint of sarcasm in my voice. It's the fact that we are doing all of this in broad daylight that I'm worried about.

''Will you quit with your nagging already Emiya.'' Saji told me while stretching his body as if he was preparing for PE.

''Only when you will fix your temper.'' I commented as I rolled my eyes at his brutish attitude. I swear, its like this guy looks for the first opportunity to look for a fight.

''Why you!'' He gritted his teeth in frustration, his hands clenching into fists.

''Am I seeing violence between you two or I am mistaken?'' Kaichou asked from the side track, Saji freezing the moment he heard her sweet yet cold voice.

''N-Not at all Kaichou!'' Saji straightened his position, his face sweating violently.

''Emiya you should also try refrain from provoking him so often.'' She directed her ice cold gaze to me now. Seriously what's up with her look, it feels like the temperature drops around us when she does it.

''I'm doing my best.'' I said with a sigh as I stretched my neck, a loud crack sound resonating in it. It's not like I am enjoying getting in small quarrels with Saji, but the guy really gets under skin sometimes. I actually feel like i'm dealing with a delinquent from time to time.

''I hope you do.'' She commented as she walked in front of us. I couldn't help but notice that she and the other members changed in their gym uniforms. Was there any need for them to change since Saji and I are the ones doing the training?

''Moving on, I will ask both of you to take a step forward.'' We both did as our master told us. She first looked at me. ''Emiya have you had any successful attempts on using your powers?''

I let out a sigh in defeat. ''No... I tried a few times, but I feel like I'm missing something very important to it. Like a trigger.''

''I see. What about you Saji, did you manage to figure your sacred gears powers?''

Saji sighed very similar to how I did. ''No luck on my side either. I can summon it without any problem, but I still don't know what it does or how to use it.''

''This will be long day.'' I heard Yura comment at us.

''Indeed.'' Sona rubbed the bridge of her nose. ''Saji take the left side and Emiya the right.''

She was silent for a few moments, holding her chin and making a thinking sound. ''I want you both to listen carefully. Saji I want you to summon your sacred gear and try and spar with Yura. Perhaps the rush of the fight will cause you to activate its powers on reflex. Nimura and Tsubaki, keep a close eye on him and note down any changes in his sacred gear. Also Yura be sure to make him feel the danger of the fight, but also hold back your strength. I don't want any injured people.''

''Yes Kaichou!'' all three of them nodded.

''Now about you Emiya.'' She stared at me for a few moments then let out a tired sigh. ''I honestly don't know where I should begin with you. It was short, but I could tell that your powers weren't something normal or common when I got summoned by you.'' she took walked a few steps and got closer, her eyes were analyzing me with their stare. ''But if I were to go by what you described, you will need something to trigger your power. I think that the best way to that is to recreate what triggered it in the first place.''

This sound interesting, but confusing at the same time. ''What do you mean?''

''I want you to close your eyes and visualize. Remember every sensation you felt when you first use it, remember what drove you to use it the first place. Try to recreate the whole event in your mind.'' She explained as she took few steps back.

I nodded to her request, it was actually a good idea. Why didn't I think about it? ''I understand.''

She pointed her hand to the two bishops. ''Hanakai and Kusaka, keep a close eye on him. We don't know the exact nature of his powers, if something seems to go wrong I want you to stop him.''

The two girls nodded silently and got closer to me.

I took a deep breath and closed, trying to recall everything that happened that day. Every image, sound, feeling, smell, emotion.

Images flashed through my mind as I tried to recall. My eyes snapped opened as I remembered. How could I be so damn stupid?

''Kaichou.'' I called to my bespectacled master that was keeping an eye on Saji, she turned around and looked at me. ''When you saved me, was there by any chance an odd looking card near me?''

''A card?'' She tilted her head confused at my question. ''No, I don't recall seeing one.''

''I see...'' I silently nodded as I closed my eyes again. This certainly raises many questions. Last time I was able to use that strange power because I had that weird card, somehow I know that my powers are linked to it and that the card acted like some sort of medium.

But where is it?

Kaichou said that she didn't see it, so I doubt that she picked it up. Also I'm sure that Iri and the others home would have told me if they found it.

So where could it have gone? Did it vanish after I used it? No that can't be it, Kaichou did say that she feels an unusual energy from me, so that means I still have its powers...

Wait... The evil pieces fuse with the body of the reincarnated devil. So that means that things can be fused in a body or placed in a body, like the sacred gears.

Could the card have fused with my body?

If that is true... how do I activate it?

Try to remember. There was something that I shouted to activate last time. Like password or trigger. What was it?

I remember it started with the letter 'I', but what was it?

Think... think... think...

My eyes and mouth automatically opened. The words came out by themselves. ''Include.''

As I declared those words I could feel a warm sensation in my chest. It quickly moved to my right hand, powerful cyan light flashed from it, illuminating the whole gym and getting everybody's attention. When the light faded, what I found wasn't what I expected. It was a long bow made of an strange black material.

''Wow, you did it.'' Meguri jumped behind me, peaking at the weapon in my hand from every angle she could think of.

''That's his weapon?'' Hanakai tilted her head confused as she looked at the weapon.

''A bow sacred gear?'' Yura, who apparently stopped beating up Saji, asked.

''Is it by any chance Jade Archery?'' Nimura asked exited.

This peaked my attention. ''Jade Archery?''

''Oh right sorry, I like researching about sacred gears since they are so interesting.'' She poked her index fingers together. ''I remember that among the ones I read about, there was a bow-type sacred gear called Jade Archery. It takes the form of a jade color bow, and the user is able to create arrows of different elements and abilities by using his imagination.''

Creating arrows of any kind by imagining them, somehow that power seems a bit broken if you ask me, but then again I did read that there are many sacred gears that defy logic, and those aren't even Longinus types. ''That sounds pretty interesting, but this bow is not Jade Archery. For one its color is black not jade, and second, I know for a fact that this thing isn't a sacred gear.''

''Are you sure?'' Kusaka asked with a puzzled expression, my guess is she is wondering what else it could be if not a sacred gear.

''Very. Also...'' I stared at the weapon in my hand. No matter how I look at it I can't help but feel something is very wrong with it. ''This form doesn't feel right.''

This doesn't make sense. My clothes are still the same, my body isn't filled with the same sensation and a bow got called instead. Did I use a different ability?

I concentrated and remember the two swords that I used to defeat that man, those two beautiful swords. The symbol of duality that they represented, the fine craftsmanship, the dangerous sharpness.

Again my body went into autopilot and acted without my control. ''Include: Switch.''

Light erupted once more from my hands, the bow disappeared and in its place the twin swords took its place. I firmly gripped on their handles, enjoying their feeling, also getting a somewhat nostalgic feeling from them. ''Now this is better.''

''Swords?'' Shinra-senpai looked at them sceptical.

''Wow they look so cool!'' Meguri cheered excited.

''At least this confirms that this isn't a sacred gear.'' Kaichou commented as she examined the blades.

''Why is that?'' I asked confused.

''For one thing it's confirmed that there isn't a creation type sacred gear that allows the user to create weapons of different classes. '' She explained as changed her attention from Kansho to Bakuya.

''Could he possess multiple sacred gears?'' Kusaka asked while cupping her chin.

''No, it's impossible. A human can only be born with only one sacred gear. There have been rare cases of people possessing multiple sacred gears, but those were all due to implanting or transferring a sacred gear into a host that already possessed one. While it is possible for the body to host multiple sacred gears, it is impossible to be naturally born with them, but also from what I read, the said sacred gears must be of close nature, otherwise there is a risk of them rejecting each other.'' Nimura explained carefully. Interesting, so even if a human isn't born with a sacred gear that doesn't mean that he or she can't get one later.

Now that I think about it, there was a small theory regarding sacred gears that I read in that guide book. It was basically a study that tried to demonstrate that a sacred gear user's personality is often influenced by their sacred gear. Something about lingering emotions and traits of the former wielders getting inherited by the new owner.

''This certainly creates more questions than answers.'' Shinra-senpai commented, thank you so much for stating the obvious.

''They certainly have a rather exotic look.'' Hanakai commented as she starred at the craftsmanship of the blades. I have to agree with her, after all these swords are actually Chinese falchions, a type of weapon unused in Japan. ''Do you have any idea what their called?''

I looked at the weapons, even though I only used them once, I feel like I have used them all my life, somehow I know everything about them. ''Yeah... their called Gan Jiang and Mo Ye, otherwise known as Kanshou and Bakuya for the Japanese.''

''Wait, as in the twin married swords ?'' Meguri cut in as her eyes were locked on my swords.

''The what?'' Saji tilted his head confused, clearly he didn't he understood what she was talking about.

''They are the swords mentioned that originate from China. A story describes how a blacksmith couple was order by the King of Wu to forge him a pair of swords that could reach the realm of Gods.'' The group's knight explained. ''It's actually quite a tragic story. The wife sacrificed herself so that the husband could use her essence and forge weapons to match the king's demands. After the two swords were forged the husband gave only one of them to the king and kept the other for himself. The king took it as an insult and ordered the husband to be killed for his defiant action. Rather than being famous for their wielders or their achievements, their known for the great sacrifice made in order for them to be forged.''

I was rather surprised that Meguri actually knew about them. Not to insult her or anything, but the history and legend of these two swords are rather obscure compared to other legendary weapons.

''If those are really famous swords just how did you find them?'' Nimura asked, I could see the skepticism in her eyes.

''No idea.'' I shrugged my shoulders, my reaction made everyone stare at me rather sharp. I wasn't lying actually since I have no idea how the swords are related to my power. ''They are part of my power somehow, but I don't know the exact nature of it or how I got.''

There was silence in the room for a few minutes. Guess everyone took their time and thought just what my powers could be if they're not sacred gear based. But the said silence was short lived.

''Kaichou!''

''What is it Meguri?'' Kaichou asked the girl that broke her and everyone one else out of their mediation.

''Can I spar a little with Emiya, pretty please?'' she clapped her hands and made a face similar to a small dog begging for a treat.

Sona stared at her for a few moments, displaying a perfect poker face. ''May I ask why?''

''Well, I have a small case of swordsman pride, so having a fellow sword user so close makes me want to test my skills against them.''

''Then how come you never challenged Kiba-san to duel before?'' Yura smirked at her while she rolled her eyes.

''That's a different matter!'' Meguri protested with a hint of pink in her cheeks. ''That guy has a 'never hurt a girl unless is really necessary' policy and is almost impossible to make him spar with me.''

Now that I think about it, during my fight with Neculai my body somehow knew how to fight and acted by itself, as if it was in a state of auto-pilot. Was it something that occurred by itself or did I triggered it?

I have the same weapons like last time, but will I be able to use them like I did before?

I let out a tired sigh. ''Do you really want us to spar Kaichou?''

''I'm not sure. If I'm not mistaken you don't have any formal training in swordsmanship do you Emiya?'' I nodded slightly. True, officially I don't have any training in using swords, but I do have some combat training that Maiya-san has been drilling in me for the past days. While I can't hold a candle to Maiya-san, I did learn a thing or two from her. But how much will it help me against a devil opponent? ''I won't force you, but if you indulge Meguri request I would appreciate it.''

''No, it's ok.'' I waved my hand, she probably was worried about the two of us getting hurt. While I appreciate the thought, I need to uncover the secrets of this powers... and to do that I need a lot of practice. ''To be honest I want to see if I can fight using these swords.''

Our master stared at me and Meguri for a few moments, I could see that she was processing the whole situation. She closed her eyes and let a tired sigh. ''Very well, but only until first blood is drawn or until one of the sides is too exhausted to continue.''

When the others finished clearing the court, Meguri and I went to the center of it and stood in front of each other. She waved her hand to the side, the air around it distorting for a few seconds, something similar to a portal opened above her hand and a Japanese katana began flowing out of the portal. She slowly took the weapon and unsheathed it, the sound of the blade being drawn lingering in the air. Somehow I could tell that the sword she was wielding was one of very high quality. My fingers gripped around the handles of my own swords... somehow I felt a little excited. ''I didn't thought I would spend my day like this to be honest.''

''Me too actually.'' Meguri laughed as she took her battle stance. ''Now then, let's see what you're made of Emi-chan!''

I almost dropped my swords, the edge of my mouth was trembling uncontrollably. ''...Emi-chan?''

''What you don't like it?'' she tilted her head confused. ''I initially thought of going with 'Shi-chan', but if I used that one Saji might think I'm calling him, you know since your first name and his are pretty identical, I mean you Shirou him Genshirou.''

While there was some good intention and logical explanation behind her action it didn't help too much. ''Please... just don't call me that.''

She put her finger over her lips and looked at me with long eyes. ''Why not?''

Seriously, making such a cute face only makes me feel more awkward. ''I-It's weird. I mean it sounds like a girl's nickname.''

''Not enjoying a cute nickname?'' she asked me with a small pout. ''It's a shame though, I think it suits you.''

''Are you two gonna fight today or what?!'' Saji shouted from the edge of the gym, somehow I feel grateful to him for ending this really weird conversation.

Meguri scratched her cheek awkwardly. ''How about we finish this later?''

''I would like that.'' I smiled tiredly at her, personally I would rather never have that conversation again. '' Please go easy on me.''

''Ok then!'' she smiled brightly, the feeling I was getting from her suddenly changing. She changed her stance, raising her katana with one hand to her shoulder level. ''Here I come!''

I only blinked once. The moment I opened my eyes Meguri was right in front of me. Her sword was aimed at my shoulder.

So this is the speed of a knight...

The speed of her thrust, the direction of the attack... I can't dodge it in time!

Should I try deflect it using Kansho? Or Bakuya?

No...

When her sword reached me, it wasn't blood that was drawn, instead small lights danced around us. I used both Kansho and Bakuya to deflect her sword, their clash resonated, the force of their collision creating dozens of sparks.

Our bodies were close, my gold eyes met her brown ones. Her expression was stunned, no doubt she didn't expect me to block her strike. Whatever confusion or shock she had was however replaced by an excited smile. '' Ohhh, you're not bad at all! But you're still not good enough to beat me.''

She pulled back her sword and began attacking me relentlessly. I was somehow managed to dodge and block all of the strikes, but those weren't random swings. Each slash and thrust were made with swift and precise motion, I could feel the years of training she put in her swordsmanship.

Having two swords might seem like an advantage for me from a bystander's point of view, but it certainly wasn't so simple. The twin swords are much heavier than a regular sword, while Meguri's katana is much lighter, giving her room for fast strikes. Even if I'm able to block her sword with one of mine, by the time I could use the other to strike her, she would already retract her sword and attack me again. We were basically in a stale mate, while I couldn't strike her, she also didn't have an easy time with my defense.

Weird... this feels very different from last time I used my powers. At that time it felt like my very perception was enhanced, and I had no problem dealing with Neculai's attacks. Which is weird since they were almost as fast Meguri strikes.

While our stale mate was holding, I could hear the others commenting from the sides of the gym.

''Interesting. While Tomoe isn't using her full strength, he is still managing to keep up with her.'' I hear Shinra-senpai comment. I could somewhat guess that the girl I'm facing isn't using all of her capabilities, but how much is she holding back?

''Yes... but will he be able to keep up with her sword techniques?'' I hear Kaichou comment. I'm actually curious about that myself.

''Go Meguri! Wipe the floor with him!'' Saji cheered like a rabid football fan.

I tried to ignore Saji and focus on the swordswoman in front of me. I have my swords crossed in an 'X' position, keeping her katana blocked. ''For a guy using two swords you're rather docile!''

While her words didn't exactly upset me or anything, they did have some truth in them. I might have had some self-restrictions since I was fighting a girl, but I need to start fighting back seriously!

I poured my strength in my arms and pushed her back, our swords separating. I stepped forward and began attacking her, the hunter has now become the hunted. I was pushing her back until she ran out of space to run. She was with her back to the wall.

I pushed both swords forward, aimed to her left and right shoulders. Even if she could deflect one of them, there was still another.

''So you finally decided to strike back!'' she smiled exited. Sparks flee as she used the blade of the katana to deflect Kanshou, while she simultaneously jabbed the hilt in Bakuya. She stopped both swords! ''Now this is gonna be fun!''

I jumped backwards, avoiding the kick aimed at my chin. Such flexibility, to kick so high from such a disadvantageous position. I tried ignoring the panties that were peeking out of her training shorts. ''For a beginner you fight pretty darn well!'' she chuckled as she corrected her stance. ''I might have to fight you serious.''

The next moment she dashed and cleared the distance between us, I barely managed to block her strike, she was much faster this time. ''What's the matter Emi-chan, out of ideas?'' she taunted me as she aimed for my ribs. Damn her attacks are also more precise than earlier.

I need to make her drop her guard. But how?

Right now she is basically pushing me back, I barely have time to block and dodge let alone strike. I'm running out of breath, I won't be able to hold on for long. If I could make catch her in a moment when she isn't able to react... wait.

If she will respect the same attack pattern she used up until now, I might just get her. It's a bit of a long shot, but I don't have any other ideas.

I changed the position of my guard as she was closing in on me. She noticed my move and smiled victoriously. ''You're mine!'' she laughed as she aimed her sword to my unguarded ribs.

When her sword was near to my ribs I couldn't contain my smirk. ''I know.''

Her smile dropped, morphing into a shocked glare, but it was already too late. I blocked her sword with mine in the last moment, the momentum of her attack caring her closer and closer to me.

One fast and swift swing. She didn't have time to block or dodge it.

Blood was dripping on the floor from the tip of Kanshou. I managed to cut her shoulder, I did it.

''Kaichou you said until first blood right?'' I turned and looked at the spectators. All of them were starring with widen eyes at me, guess they weren't expecting me to win. I lifted Kanshou and showed the blood dripping from it. ''I guess this is my win.''

I walked slowly towards the stunned gallery, seriously they were staring at me like I had two heads or was naked.

''How in Lucifer's unholy name did he beat her?!'' Saji grabbed his head and screamed in shock.

''I-I'm not sure... Meguri had the upper hand and yet...'' Yura commented uncertain of what she just saw.

I took a quick glance to my master who was watching my every move, as if trying to figure out just what kind of creature I am. I chuckled slightly and closed one of my eyes. ''Is that satisfying master?''

''Eh?'' she blinked a few times, waking up from her little trance. ''Y-Yes, it was... unexpected. I was a bit skeptical about it at first, but your skills are indeed real.'' Her lips curled into a small smile. The said smiled faded when she looked behind me. I turned around and saw my fellow sword user approaching, her bags covering her eyes. ''Is something wrong Meguri?''

''The only thing wrong here is this guy's head!'' she pointed her katana at me and accused in indignation, her usual cheerful smile was all gone.

''What do you mean?'' Hanakai asked her friend confused.

''During my last attack he intentionally left his vitals open.'' She complained as she pointed to my ribs. Was it really that bad what I did?

''So?'' Saji crossed his arms and tilted his head confused.

''Don't you get it. By dropping his guard he basically invited me to strike for his open vitals.'' She explained to the blonde pawn, then changed her gaze back to me. ''Then when I took the bait he countered in the last second and attacked me while I was still confused.''

''I don't understand. Isn't it a good thing if he can counter attacks?'' Nimura asked confused.

''It is, but not like this. It's one thing to counter an attack when you were careless or when the enemy surprised you, but it's a whole different story when you intentionally let your guard down.''

''Aren't you being a little salty cuz Emiya beat you?'' Saji asked with half lidded eyes.

''It's not about that!'' she snapped at him, making the pawn jump back in fear. ''The tactic he used was beyond reckless! If he was even a second too slow he could have got seriously injured, or worse die!''

''Is that true?'' Sona asked me, her face was nothing but pure seriousness.

I was silent for a few seconds, a tired sigh accompanied with a shrug followed. ''I just did what I could to win. If it would have been indeed a real battle with people's life's at stake I would have do all can to defeat my opponent.''

''You can't just fight like that!'' Meguri snapped at me. ''That kind of fighting style can get you killed the moment you make a mistake!''

''Perhaps.'' I admitted with a sigh. ''I haven't been formally trained in swordsmanship, so it was the best I could come up on the moment.''

''But it's wrong! It not just about sword teaching, it about your own sense common sense! People don't just intentionally put themselves at risk!'' she kept complaining only to stop when Kaichou put her hand in front of her.

''That's enough Meguri.'' She demanded from her knight.

''But Kaichou he-''

''I said that's enough.'' She told her in same previous tone, only somehow much colder. ''As much as I agree with you that what he did was reckless, complaining to him won't help.''

She turned her gaze towards me. ''I will overlook it this time, but I won't a second time. I will look for a proper instructor for you, until then any sword training is on hold.''

I didn't like where this was going. I just figured out the way to call my swords and now she tells me that I can't use them. ''Now wait a second you can't just-''

''Do I make myself clear?'' her voice felt like a layer of ice slowly encasing my body, making me unable to move or protest. I nodded slightly in defeat.

''Good.'' She nodded as she turned her back on me, looking at with the edge of her eye. ''Don't take this the wrong way Emiya, if I ignore things that may result in your harm, then I am a failure as a king and as a person.''

''Saji let's get back to you.'' she gestured to the blond pawn, the said person nodding and following her, the others doing the same.

I was now alone in this empty corner. A feeling of disappointment feeling my stomach, even if I manage to use my powers I somehow feel like a made a mistake bigger than not using them at all.

I don't understand why they acted like that. A person should do whatever they could in a fight if lives were at stake. I know we were just sparring, but why did Meguri act like that?

Man... my life sure is getting more and more complicated.

''Your little master sure burned you.''

Someone whispered to me in an amused tone. I instantly looked around me only to see the empty space and the others trying to help Saji further away. There was no one who could say that.

I must be more stressed than I thought... I'm starting to hear voices...

''Actually its voice, in singular. Also about time you finally hear me, I was literally talking to the sky up until now.'' The chuckle was much more accentuated this time, sounding as if it was smug.

Oh shit... Iri did warn me that if I keep getting my head bashed in the wall by Sella I will one day go crazy! I thought she was just joking!

''You ok?''

I'm so not gonna listen or respond to a figment of my imagination! Acknowledging its existence it's the first step towards a mental asylum!

''I don't know if I should be amused or confused by your reaction.''

Ignore it. Ignore it. Maybe it will go away.

''Ok look kid, for one, you're not going crazy and two, I don't know if I can go away even if I want to.''

...

Ok I will play along. How do I know I'm not going crazy and you're not some kind of Schizophrenia symptom?

''Look if was indeed a type of delusion my knowledge would be limited to your own. The mind can't give you information you never heard or saw yourself.'' He explained to me though it didn't help me too much.

Your point is?

''Tsk, just my luck... Let me put it this in a way you will understand. Have you ever heard of tejpat, tamarind, poppy seeds, marjoram, lovage, kokam, greater galangal, fenugreek, cambodge, or maybe asafoetida.''

No... What are those?

''They're spices, many of them used in popular Indian dishes.'' He explained to me with a rather satisfying sounding voice. ''Now if I was indeed a figment of your imagination or something similar there was no way I could know something that you personally had no way of knowing.''

I took a few moments and processed what he told me.

Fine you made your point, but then what are you?

''Truth to be told I'm not sure myself what my current status is. I never experience something quite like this.''

That sure helps me...

''Look kid I'm just as confused as you are. Do you think I actually enjoyed suddenly waking up inside the head of some else?''

Fine. Fine. You made your point.

''Of course I did.''

I see... Wait a minute, you mentioned something about talking and me not hearing you. What was that about?

''Well ever since I found myself in this situation I've been trying to make contact with you, but you wouldn't hear no matter how much I commented or ranted.''

Wait... all those random things I've been hearing from time to time was because of you?

''Oh, so you did hear me.''

Yeah... now this situation feels even weirder... should I ask Kaichou about you? Maybe she has an idea what's going on with you?

''I'm gonna go with no at that one.''

Would you be so kind and explain why?

''Supernatural or otherwise, if you tell her that you are hearing voices in your head she will either make you an appointment at a psychiatric doctor, or try to exorcise you to get rid of me. And trust me exorcisms rituals aren't pretty.''

You sound like you're scared.

''More like I'm trying to prologue my unexpected vacation as much as I can.''

What do you mean by that?

''Let's just say that my everyday job is very nasty and I never have any form of vacation... well except the times that I'm randomly summoned by a violent tsundere.''

Huh?

''Nothing, nothing, just ranting a little. My point is that I want some time to relax and recharge my batteries.

Anyway... so you want me to keep all of this secret from her?

''Cut me some slack will you. The moment you tell her about me, your life will get even more complicated than it already is. Also getting rid of me isn't such a great idea.''

Why? For what reason should I keep you my head?

''For one thing you owe me for saving you.''

What?! When did that happen?

''You might not remember it, but when you were fighting that man it was me that gave you the power to stop him.''

Y-You mean...

''Yeah. Somehow when you were dying there, you made a connection to me using that card you had on you. You were gonna die so I thought might as well gave you a hand.''

O-Oh... I g-guess I should thank you then.

''No need. I pretty much did it on whim, besides I was certain you were gonna die after using my powers. No offence, but using powers beyond your capabilities will always have consequences, and considering that you used mine without any kind of formal training or understanding of them was fatal. Now that I think about it, I don't know if you died from the blood loss or from the aftershock of using my powers.''

So these weird powers are actually yours?

''That's about it. Also don't call them weird, it's insulting.''

Wait... you said that I might have died from the aftershock of using your powers. So does that mean I might die again if I keep using them?!

''Depends actually. Your body is much more durable than a normal human now, plus your family and your little devil friend are training you now, so you might just be able to develop control over my powers without any backlashes.''

I see.

''Actually let's make some ground rules. The technique you used the first time is called Install, it basically overwrites your existence with my own, making you able to use all of my techniques and skills, but its very taxing and to be honest I don't know what side effects may occur if you use it now. For that I'm keeping tabs on it and seal it for the time being. So my advice is that you stick to Include.''

What's the difference between them?

''Well while the Install usually gives you the full set of the abilities, the Include usually gives you a weapon. So that being said, I recommend you learn how to wield Kanshou and Bakuya for the moment.''

Wow...

''What?''

Don't know it's just, you're awfully helpful.

''Not really. I'm just making sure you don't kill yourself before I get a chance to enjoy my vacation.''

Just what kind of job did you have to make you like this?

''Believe me kid you don't want to know.''

Wait a second. We've been talking like this for a while, and I don't even know your name.

''Yeah about that... I don't know it myself.''

Wait what?

''I don't know why but many of my memories are messed up. Normally cards like the one you use aren't sentient like how I am now, the fact that we are communicating like is a sign that something must have happened to make us like this.''

Do you have any idea what exactly?

''I told you before, while my memories are a bit fuzzy I know for a fact this never happened before to me.''

Then what could have happened to...

''Did you figure something out?''

Wait... there's was this weird dream I had, right before I awoke after I was resurrected. I saw one of my pieces get ripped out of my body and fly towards a man in a red shroud. Could that have any meaning?

''Hmm... Red shroud you say... Yep that's me alright. Actually that could explain some stuff. It might be a long shot, but I think that when you were revived, the fragment of my consciousness that was inside of the card was also revived, making me a fully sentient existence. That could explain how I found myself in your mind perfectly aware of myself, and the moment you used Include earlier, a proper communication line was established between us. Those evil piece sure are interesting.''

Yeah they are... wait how do you know about the evil pieces?

''I was getting to that. You see my card somehow fused together with your own body and it created an advance form of psychic link between us. In simpler terms the things that you learn and experience, I will as well. You should be glad that I saw how the situation is and what really happened after the fight, otherwise I wouldn't be having this conversation with you.''

Why's that?

''Let's just say that I wouldn't really jump at the idea of having my soul dammed and helping a devil or other inhuman monsters. While I don't like to judge, most of them try to kill or torment me and any human they come across.''

I-I see...

So then... if you don't recall your name, what should I call you?

''Archer... let's leave it at that.''

Then nice to meet you Archer. I'm Emiya Shirou.

''Ummm...''

Is something wrong? Why did you growl like that?

''I don't know... somehow your name irritates me.''

How could my name-

''Kyaahhh!'' a high pitched scream pulled me back to my sense and to the people in the room. I looked at the source of the scream and saw something rather odd happening to Hanakai. ''Saji get it out of my clothes!''

''I'm trying but it won't listen to me!'' the said pawn complained as he try pulling his hand back, the others helping him. The said hand was covered with a black gauntlet of some sorts with a lizard motif. From the mouth of the lizards head a glowing cable was somehow finding its way beneath Hanakai's clothes. I could see the tentacle like cable squirming under her clothes, all the way in her pantie-

''Emiya stop daydreaming and helps them!'' the white haired bishop cried in frustration.

I suddenly realized that I was starring and ran to help with the problem. ''R-Right!''

''Something tells me that I will really enjoy this vacation.''

---

And that's how my whole nightmare with Archer began...

While I can't really say that he is a bad person...

Oh who the hell am I kidding, the guys a total dick. Most of the time he just gives me the silent treatment, and the times he talks to me is when he finds something to make fun of me with.

Seriously, this guy makes the words annoying take a whole new meaning.

It took me a while to realize that if I'm not careful, he can hear every single thing that I'm thinking. I need to keep a clear and straight thinking process otherwise he could hear every piece of information that I'm processing. I really don't want to give him any more nagging materials for him to use on me.

I sighed and got up from the table, picking up my dishes and taking them to the sink.

''Onii-chan are you busy right now?'' Illya asked me, there was a grain of rice on her cheek.

I smiled awkwardly and rubbed the back of my head. ''Actually I have to go out for a while.''

''At this hour?'' Miyu tilted her head confused. ''Where are you going?''

Time to see if I have any acting skills. ''W-Well we have an exam soon so some of my classmates decided to hold a study group tonight.''

''You know it's not very nice to lie your sister.''

Oh shut up. Do you honestly want me to tell her the truth and say 'Oh don't worry Illya, me and my devil friends are going hunting for dangerous stray devils tonight. No need to wait for since I'll arrive late.'

''You could at least do some half-truths. That aside, I would be more cautious if I were you. Just because your master told that you and that Saji kid are only going as spectators to see how stray hunts are done that doesn't mean you can let your guard down. You never know what could happen.''

I guess your right...

''Oh... I see.'' Illya nodded with a sigh.

''Did you need my help with something?'' I asked a bit confused after noticing the small trace of disappointment on her face.

She began scratching the back of her head awkwardly. ''Actually we were wondering if you would like to watch some Magical girls anime's with us.''

''O-Oh... sorry, maybe some other time.'' I managed to tell them while holding a straight face. As much as I love them I just can't comprehend the things that they like to watch.

''So I take it you aren't into magical girl's anime?''

... Do I look like I am?

''Just asking. No need to be all hostile towards me.''

I'm more into sword fighting anime's.

''You don't say?... Oh the irony.''

''How long will you be gone?'' Liz interrupted me before I could retort to Archer.

''I'm not sure. I will probably arrive a bit late, so don't wait for me.'' I told them the truth. I'm sure the hunt will take at least a few hours so it will be very late by the time I return. ''Anyway good night.''

I threw my school bag over my shoulder and headed straight to the front door. I stopped walking when I felt a strong grip on my shoulder. I turned around only to see Iri looking at me with a very serious face.

''I take it you are meeting with little Miss Sitri and her peerage am I right?'' her voice was missing its usual childish tone, her eyes filled with concern.

''Yeah...'' I answered her honestly, even though they know what's going on with my life right, I try not to involve them in it.

''I understand.'' She nodded as she put her hand in her pocket. ''There is something I want you to carry with you all the time.''

This made me raise an eyebrow. A good luck charm perhaps? ''Iri look you didn't have to-''

''No I insist!'' she grabbed my hand and placed the object in it. ''Boys your age should always carry one with them.''

This made me curious. I looked at the object she placed in my hand. A small circular object covered in square plastic cover...

...

''Iri...'' I began slowly, my eye and the corner of my mouth twitching very badly. I honestly never thought I was gonna ask my mom this. ''Could you please tell me why are you giving me a condom?''

She put her hand on her hip, and pointer her finger to my face. ''Now listen carefully Shirou. As much as I would love to see you enjoy the springtime of your youth together with a nice girl, or girls depending on the case, I can't let you be reckless.''

What?

''Even though I would jump up in the air at the idea of many cute grandchildren, I wouldn't like waking up one day with parents of a high school girl at our front door angry at you for knocking up their daughter.''

Okay, again now. What?

''Taking in account that the group you're now involved has a number of seven high school girls, all of which never had any boyfriends, and if my sources are correct none of them even kissed a boy before, the risk of some of them falling for you is pretty high. If I were to add all of these together, the risk of you getting someone pregnant increases by a large margin. So I must make sure that you properly protect yourself.''

...

''You know what, I didn't know what to think about her the first time I saw her, but I'm really starting to like your mother.''

Shut up Archer! The only reason you're saying that is because she is the second person after you that gives me such a hard time.

''And that's why I like her.''

''I can't believe we are having this conversation right now...'' I covered my forehead in frustration with my hand, trying to ignore the smugness in Archer's voice.

Iri crossed her arms under her chest and puffed her checks. ''I know right. I keep telling Kiritsugu that he needs to have the father son talk with you, but he always crawls his way out of it.''

''Right...'' I managed to mutter while turning around to leave in an attempt to keep sanity intact. ''I will leave now, I wouldn't want to be late.''

''Shirou.'' Her voice resonated in the air like a whip, stopping me in my tracks. ''All jokes aside, try to be careful. You can never know what might happen.''

I could see the concern in her eyes. Sometimes I forget that under all the quirkiness and childish personality, Iri is still my mom, and she would feel uneasy like any mom would knowing that I'm doing something dangerous. ''I will try.''

She smiles bitterly at me, her eyes slightly cringing. ''Please be careful Shirou. The life of people like us is a constant dance with death.''

''Don't worry.'' I closed my eyes and gave her a reassuring smile. ''I was given a second chance to life and I'm not gonna waste it.'' I told her as I stepped out of the house and began walking towards the school.

''So... why are you walking?''

I don't know, maybe it's the fact that my demonic energy is so weak that I can't even do even a basic teleportation spell.

''No need to be all sarcastic with me.''

Like you aren't all the time.

''Just trying to make some small talk. You said something earlier about sword fighting anime's, wanna talk about one?''

Seriously? You want to talk about anime?

''I'm kinda bored. Plus do you have anything better to do until you arrive to the school?''

Fine. I recently got hooked on one about this teenage boy that could see ghosts. One day he-

---

''So let me get this straight. He and his dad pulled that final technique out of nowhere without any mentioning up until then, he sacrificed all of his powers to defeat that weird butterfly guy and now is just a normal human?''

That's about it.

''And they ended the story like that?''

Actually there still episodes I need to see. Plus I haven't read the manga, so there might still be stuff I don't know.

''That's good then, I mean there are lot of questions answered. Hope they won't add any more filler though.''

Let's talk about that later. It's working time.

I opened the door to the student council room and greeted all the other members. ''Evening.''

The first one to notice was Saji who appeared rather annoyed. ''About time you got here Emiya. What took you so long?''

''Oh, I just lost track of time while chatting with the sarcastic jerk that's taking a vacation in the back of my head. That, and I had dinner with my family and I didn't notice how late it was.''

All devils present were silent and were staring at me as if I had two heads. Kaichou put her hand over her mouth and made a cough sound. ''Weird sense of humor aside... Next time try to be more punctual.''

If only they knew that I wasn't joking. ''Let's start the briefing.'' She gestured to her fellow bespectacled devil. ''Tsubaki.''

''Yes.'' She waved her hand and a magic circle appeared in the middle of the room, from it a hologram of a man appeared. His large and sculpted physique could put most body builders to shame. ''Recently we received reports of people disappearing around the outskirts of the town. Right around the time of the said disappearance we received a report stating a stray devil was sighted around the same area. Judging by its description we are dealing with the stray devil Scarin, a low-class level devil with strength of a mid-level one, former rook of the heir of the Valac household. He killed two members of his household and critically wounded his master, ripping of one of his arms in the process.''

''He managed to escape before the incident was discovered and he went into hiding, constantly changing his base of operation, occasionally resurfacing and killing any unfortunate bystanders.'' The hologram changed and now displayed a forest. ''If our sources are correct he will be in our territory for a few days. If we don't act tonight, chances are we will lose trail of him.''

So this is the target. ''Is there anything we need to know about his abilities?''

''Actually there is.'' Shinra-senpai waved her hand and the image changed to one of him elbowing a man in the face. ''During his youth he was a Muay Thai practitioner. After he was reincarnated he implement into his fighting style, making him stand out during rating games as rather violent and brutal individual. You should all be very careful of his knee and elbow strikes.''

''Due to his close quarter fighting style, we will need to fight him at a proper distance.'' Kaichou explained, getting up from her desk and walking in the middle of us.

''Tsubaki, Hanakai, Kusaka and I will be the main striking force. Due to his rook trait he will have a high endurance, so it may take some time before he goes down.'' She took a moment and looked to the side. ''To prevent him from attacking us, Yura and Meguri will act as vanguard.''

Hmm... Considering that the main sticking force is made of long ranged fighters that may be a good idea. Using magic based attacks to weaken him is actually a good idea, and should he get to close to them the vanguard could take the chance and strike him. But there is one problem.

''What about us?'' Saji took the words right out of my mouth.

''You and Emiya are still inexperienced when it comes to real combat and have yet to understand and master your powers, letting you join the battle could prove more dangerous, so you will only observe and Nimura will guard you. However, should something unexpected happen, you two must be ready to join us act as support.''

''Understood.'' I agreed, Saji only nodded silently, an unsatisfied scowl was slightly present on his face.

''Now then.'' Our master straightened her glasses as a large magic circle appeared under us. ''It's time to go hunting.''

---

We teleported to the designated area and began our search. The place was somewhat of an abandoned estate at the outskirts of a forest. We already searched in the forest and in the old vandalized house. To say that it was a productive one was a bit of stretch.

''You sure he's here?'' Saji complained as he kicked a tree in frustration, he kept repeating the same question for the past hour and to be honest it was somewhat beginning to get on my nerves.

''Reports say he was sighted in this area.'' Shinra-senpai said as she rubbed the bridge of her nose, no doubt she was also getting tired of Saji whining.

''Then why haven't we saw anything until now?!'' the blond pawn snapped he kicked a small pebble on the ground.

''If you were a wanted dangerous fugitive would you rather try and stay hidden or go around like a jackass screaming 'Come and get me bitches'?'' Yura rolled her eyes in boredom, while not the same choice of words I would have used, she did make a good point. If the target is indeed here it's probably hiding somewhere we either can see, or wouldn't consider checking.

''And here I saw hoping to get back home quick...'' Hanakai sighed pessimistically.

''Is something wrong Momo?'' Kusaka asked her fellow bishop.

''There was a movie I really wanted to watch tonight. I left in a hurry and didn't get to turn on the recorder.''

''Is it the one you told me about yesterday?''

''Yeah... and I was so hyped to see it.''

Ignoring their rather easy going chat I trailed my eyes around the courtyard of the mansion. There was no trace of activity in the house, so the target didn't use it as a hideout.

A gentle breeze brushed against my hair, the cold night air was rather pleasent. My eyes widen as I felt a scent from the wind. It felt repulsing, but at the same time it felt very familiar, something my body was used to feeling. ''Is something wrong Emiya-senpai?'' Nimura question broke me out of my trance.

''No... It's nothing.'' I shook my head and went towards where the wind blew. The scent was gone, but I'm sure it came from somewhere close.

As my eyes were scanning the area, I suddenly stopped and fixed my gaze on a large rock in the middle of the courtyard.

Weird... as I looked at it, I could feel an unusual tingling in my eyes. For some reason no matter how much I stared at it there was only one thought that went through my mind.

''It doesn't belong here.'' I muttered to myself. I somehow knew that this rock was placed here by someone. I grabbed it and pushed it aside. I stared curiously at what was under it.

''Hey guys.'' They all turned their heads as they heard my shout. ''I think I might have found something.''

They all rushed to my side and stared at what was under the rock. ''A secret entrance?'' Kusaka asked confused.

It was a metallic trap door, just big enough for that rather large devil to fit in. ''No wonder we didn't find anything.'' Saji face palmed himself in frustration.

''Good job Emiya!'' Yura gave me a toothy grin while giving me a pat on the back. Even if she told me that, I did on instinct.

Now that I think about it... recently I feel like I know how to do stuff that I shouldn't know how.

''Everyone. Keep a sharp lookout.'' Our master ordered us as she opened the trap door.

---

The latter under the trap door led us very deep underground. When we reached the bottom I scanned the place. The tunnels seem man made, so my guess is that this place might have been a bunker or an escape tunnel of some kind.

''Guess he is hiding in these tunnels.'' Saji commented with a sigh.

My eyes slowly drifted to the person that has been ignoring me for the past few days. I walked next to her and slowly tapped my finger on her shoulder. ''Say Meguri.'' I began slowly, getting her attention. ''Are you still angry at me for what happened during our spar.''

''Eh?'' she blinked repeatedly for a few seconds while staring at me. She threw her hands and waved them left and right. ''Oh no, no, no, I'm not angry at you or anything, I just needed some time to cool down.''

She said that with a smile, and yet there was a deep silence between us now.

''Look Emi-chan.'' Meguri sighed as she looked at me with melancholic eyes. ''The only thing I ever had were my sword skills, skills which I had to work myself till exhaustion to develop. So when I see people pulling foolish or reckless stunts like the one you did, it makes me feel really angry.''

This made me curious. My eyes drifted towards her palms, they were cover in many calluses. Those aren't the palms of a high school girl, those are the ones of one who is constantly working them to the extreme. While it may answer some question, it only brings more. ''Why?''

''It's because it looks like it didn't matter to you. The skills you showed me might not be yours, but who ever developed them must have poured his soul into perfecting them, and by doing reckless moves like that it feels like it was all for nothing.''

I took a moment and processed everything she said. I guess from someone who probably worked all her life to develop her skills, seeing someone treat his own skills without any proper respect must be frustrating. I rubbed the back of my head awkwardly. ''I will try to be more careful if that makes feel any better.''

She didn't say anything and walked passed me, but I did get a glimpse of a small smile.

As I continued to walk I noticed that everyone up ahead stopped walking and were just sitting in place. ''Oh great, we just had to find a crossroad.'' Hanakai sighed as rubbed the bridged of her nose.

'' We can't trace his demonic energy and splitting up isn't such a great idea. What do we do now?'' Kusaka asked of our master.

She was silent and stared at the four paths that were in front of her. I also took a curios look to the paths and my eyes narrow when I looked at the forth on the right. I felt a twinge in my nose, the same sensation I felt earlier is now back, but this time is much more potent. I slowly made my way towards the source.

''What do you think Emiya-senpai?'' Nimura asked me, I ignored her and continued walking, there was something down here.

''Emiya?'' Kaichou must have noticed my behavior.

''Where are you going?'' Ignored Shinra-senpai's question and moved on.

I reached a massive metal door, the scent was literally oozing from here. I slowly opened the door and walked in. The room was pitch dark and I couldn't see anything. I checked the nearby walls for any light switch. Luckily I had found.

I flipped it. The light bulb must have been old as it turn on and off every second. Those brief flashes of light were enough for me to see what was inside of the room. I regretted my choice the moment I truly saw what had caught my attention.

''Hey Emiya!'' I heard Saji's annoyed tone as he approached me. He was at the room entrance. The lights were not on. ''Dammit Emiya would you stop going-'' the lights went on and Saji froze in his tracks the moment he saw what was around me.

I heard foot steps behind him. The others must have caught up with us.

''Saji-senpai is something wrong?'' Nimura asked confused as he looked at the trembling body of her fellow pawn.

Saji's body began convulsing, he grabbed his mouth and leaped on his knees to the closest wall he could find. What came out of his mouth weren't words, but a physical thing. A painful growl echoed as he violently threw up the contents of his stomach.

''Saji what's wrong?!'' Kusaka rushed to his side and patted him on the back, trying to calm him down.

Kaichou didn't waste time and walked inside the room to see what caused the reaction of her pawn. Similar to him she froze in place as she saw the gruesome scene. She didn't throw up like Saji did but her eyes cringed in pain as she averted her gaze, her skin loosing color.

The other girls followed suit and looked inside. They weren't able to hold out like Kaichou did and were getting sick from the sight.

Who could blame them?

I took another look around the room. There were five bodies in the room, all of them tied in chains to the walls.

The first one had its abdomen slashed open, the ribs have been each snapped in half, the internal organs exposed and the intestines hanging lifelessly outside.

The second had its lower jaw partially ripped off, as it was hanging loosely in the air by a small piece of flesh that was refusing to rip off completely. No eyes were present in her head, just two hollow eye sockets. The nose was split open like a double closet, showing what was inside of it.

The third was missing its lower half, a part of her insides were hanging in the air while the others were laying right under her dismember form.

The forth had its members bended and snapped in an unnatural fashion. The broken bones from the arms and legs were sticking out, the bones whites couldn't be seen from all the blood and yellow marrow.

The fifth and final one had the most intact body compared to the others. This one had a number of random objects piercing its body, creating multiple puncture wounds. Those objects weren't stabbed randomly, each of them piercing an organ or artery, making the person bleed itself to death.

When I first entered the room I thought that the walls were painted red... I was wrong.

They were red from the blood of the victims. The floor was also covered in several small pools of blood and scattered pieces of ripped flesh and bone.

I understood now the scent that has been calling me to this room.

Death.

''How horrible.'' I heard Kaichou muttering with a disturbed voice. ''The reports did say that he was a sadist... but this...''

''D-Did the stray devil do all of this?'' Shinra-senpai let out a strained voice, the difficulty of keeping herself from puking could be noticed.

My eyes landed on the person with the puncture wounds, I slowly walked towards him. ''E-Emiya?'' I heard Kusaka muffle.

When I arrived in front of the body I put my index and middle finger on his throat. Nothing. ''They're all dead.'' I concluded as I draw my hand back. It was a bit of a long shot but I hoped that because this one had the less lethal wounds there might still be a chance he's alive.

''Emiya.'' I turned around when I heard Kaichou's disturbed voice. She, and everyone else were staring at me in disbelief. Their eyes filled with nothing but shock, confusion and fear.

My head tilted slightly to their reaction. ''What?''

No one said a thing, whenever they looked like were about to say something they remained silent. Saji made his way through them, his face pale, rubbing his mouth with his sleeve. ''A-Are you fucking right in the head?!'' he snapped in rage and disgust at me.

He pointed his finger towards the bodies. ''Just look at what he did to them! You walked in here without as much flinching and act like it's nothing really special for you to walk through blood and guts. How the hell can you even look at this whole horror and not be affected?!''

My mind went blank when I understood what he mean. I just walked my way through a pool of blood and human remains and haven't and didn't even stop for a second.

How is this not affecting me?

Why isn't it affecting?

Why can I look at this gore scene and not feel any sort of burden by it.

I do regret not arriving in time to save the people here, but the way they died isn't affecting me. It's like... I'm used to seeing death... It's like I'm used to seeing worse than this.

''Gahh... hah hah...'' I grabbed my chest as I grasped for air. Something is just wrong. ''I... I just...''

BAM!

''What was that?!'' my breath calmed down when I heard Shinra-senpai's voice. I looked around and my eyes got stuck on the door on the other side of the room.

''Everyone regroup.'' Kaichou ordered, everyone responded, thought somewhat sluggish due to still being in shock.

BAM!

''Over there!'' Yura shouted as the door was smashed open. From it a tower of a man slowly walked in. It was our target Scarin, but something seemed wrong.

When he got under the light of the room we all saw something that we weren't expecting. The stray devil that looked like he had an armor made out of pure muscles, was drenched from head to toe in his own blood.

He had five puncture wounds, twenty-seven lacerations, and most notable was the fact that he was missing his whole right arm. His face had nothing but pure fear painted on it.

He let out a twisted gasp before his legs game up and he fell on the floor. His body was shaking, he saw us and tried to open his mouth. ''M-Monster...'' was all that he could manage to speak before his eyes rolled up.

He went silent. Not even twitch from his body. He died.

The air seemed to freeze in the room, no one moving or saying anything. We were all to stun to by what series of events that occurred. Saji seemed to break out first. ''What the hell is going on here?! Why is our target dead?!'' he screamed in both fear and confusion.

My eyes drifted back to the door he came from as I heard foot step from it. A figure slowly emerged for the shadows.

''Hoo~ what do we have here? A small band of devil kids?'' the figure chuckled cheerfully as it made its way to.

I took note to the person appearance. It was a man, just a few years older than me, dressed in a pair of skin tight black jeans, a white t-shirt and black leather jacket. His hair was shoulder length, spiky in ends and blond in color, his skin was an unhealthy pale, his eyes are intense orange, finally under his left eye was tattoo reminiscent of a claw.

The thing that really got my attention was the black katana he was holding. I keep getting this uneasy feeling whenever I look at it.

My eyes locked on the blood that was dripping on the black blade of the katana. ''Did you do this to him?''

He simply shrugged and let a tired sigh. ''Kinda. I was just minding my own business taking a midnight stroll in these tunnels and suddenly that stray idiot appeared and tried to turn me into his new torture toy. He even made me drop my burger, could you believe that?!''

''You...'' I turned to Kaichou who looked at him in disbelief. ''Spiky yellow hair, intense orange eyes, a small claw like tattoo over the left cheek, and a black katana... no... not you.''

Her eyes tensed as she looked at the man. ''Kaichou who is he?''

She took was silent for a few moments, her eyes never looking away from the man. ''Stray devil Kurosaiga.''

While I and the other student council members were confused, Shinra-snepai went pale, her face moulding into one of pure fear, perhaps she recognized him. The man on the other hand just whistled. ''Oh my~ did someone just recognized me? Man being a celebrity sure is hard.''

I could see the uneasiness and anxiety in my master's body language, but she still tried to keep a straight face. ''State your actions.''

Kurosaiga simply waved his hands left and right, a bored expression was all that he displayed. ''No need to be all formal and shit with me. I was just passing by and felt this guy presence, next thing I know, I walk in on him doing his little torture fetish. So I did what any friendly neighborhood stray devil would do and killed the son of a bitch.''

''So am I wrong to assume that you wish us harm?'' Kaichou asked carefully, the tension around her seemed to have lighten slightly.

''Actually you aren't wrong. Now that you saw me I can't really let you leave, don't take it personally but I just got the underworld off my back and I would really hate if they managed to track me again.'' He sighed as he rubbed the back of his head.

''I take it even if I did promise you to keep secret of this event you wouldn't let us go, am I right? She tried to reason with him, the earlier tension was now back even stronger. No doubt who ever this man is, he must be very dangerous to make her react like this.

''Unfortunately for you and your little friends over here, you are very correct. Besides I have a rule.'' The easy going air around him vanished completely, a feral grin stretched across his face, his eyes glowed maliciously. ''If I ever stumble across pure-blooded devil shits I will kill them.''

Kaichou let out a 'tsk' sound before turning to us. ''Everyone prepare to teleport now!''

''Kaichou?'' everyone, myself included were confused by her sudden reaction.

''He isn't someone we can fight. He is a former human who was considered a prodigy among reincarnated devils. He was the Queen of the heir of the Barbatos household and had a very prominent future ahead of him, but he went mad and slaughtered his master and his whole peerage. I saw rating games in which he participated, his strength is equal, perhaps even greater to that of a high-class devil.'' She bitterly admit as she glared back at the said man. ''He isn't someone we can fight at our current level.''

This made almost everyone present twitch in fear. Hanakai and Kusaka prepared their magic circles to teleport us away, only to see the circles shatter in the air. ''K-Kaichou we can't teleport!''

''What?!'' she almost snapped at them, no doubt the situation was beginning to mentally strain her.

''Well duh!'' Kurosaiga snorted. ''I didn't spend my time filling these tunnels with anti-teleportation runes as a hobby you know. Oh don't look at me like that, I just didn't want that stray bitch escaping.''

''Tsk. We don't have a choice.'' Kaichou straightened herself. ''Everyone regroup, same formation. We will fight him, but the moment we see an opportunity we are escaping this place.''

''What?! You can't be serious Kaichou?!'' Saji snapped in frustration, he was already getting emotionally unstable from what he saw up until, the appearance of Kurosaiga didn't seem to make things better. ''There's no way we can't beat this blond haired punk if we all fight him!''

That idiot! This isn't the time to let your pride get to you. Even if we have a numerical advantage against him, we have no idea what he is capable of.

''Guess I know who will die first.'' Kurosaiga commented with a bloodthirsty grin of his face as he appeared right in front of Saji.

''When did you-'' Saji muttered in shock as Kurosaiga drew his katana.

''Saji!''

The katana was brought down. The sound of flesh getting slashed and bones getting cut echoed in the room. ''Now isn't this interesting.'' Kurosaiga whistled entertained.

''W-Why?'' Saji mutter incoherently as he looked at what was in front of him. ''W-Why did you d-do that?!''

I opened my mouth to talk, a loud gasp escaped from it. ''M-My b-body... m-moved on its own before I c-could think...'' I muttered as my blood was gushing out of my body. I managed to step in between them at the last moment, but I didn't have enough time to Include.

The slash began from my hip and ended to my throat. The artery in it was severed... blood was erupting violently from my throat.

The world around me seemed to spin... I fell down to the ground. I could hear a single thing as my body crashed.

''SHIROU!''

---

Omake: It's A Real Thing! Taiga Dojo Preview!

Taiga was reading chapter four on her laptop. She slowly closes it and calmly throws it out a window. ''The hell was that?!'' the tiger lady roared. ''WTF Ray! You've took so damn to release the chapter and now you make a damn cliffhanger!?''

''Is it that bad that Ray-san made a cliffhanger?!'' Miyu asked confused.

''Of course it is! It's like you know that you have chocolate cake for desert, but you have to eat your mothers nasty main course before you can try it.'' Taiga roared, her battle aura all to present.

''I don't really get her.'' Miyu commented.

''Me neither.'' Illya nodded.

''Say Illya, perhaps i am imagining things, but didn't Ray-san use the 'Shirou recklessly jumps and protects someone with his body' idea in chapter one?'' Miyu asked curiously as she shuffled through chapter one.

Taiga exited the dojo through the front door..

''He did actually, and while he risks a lot by overusing certain pasterns, this is Onii-chan we are talking about. In the Saber Route he was brave(stupid) enough to jump in and protect Saber from Berserkers giant stone sword which almost split him in half, so he can take a small katana anytime.'' Illya shrugged.

Taiga returned in the dojo, carrying her broken laptop under her arm like a purse.

''That's very accurate now that i think about it.'' Miyu commented.

Taiga began beating her laptop with her Tora-shinai.

''How long do you think it will take before she calms down?'' Miyu asked.

''Probably until chapter five comes out. Yep were screwed.'' Illya pouted as a dark cloud formed over her head.

Miyu tilted her head confused. ''Won't it take longer for chapter five to be written? Isn't Ray-san starting his exam session?''

''That's why I said were screwed...'' Illya shrugged her shoulders.

''Stay tuned for the next chapter 'Stray hunt part II'.'' Illya and Miyu said in synch.

''Check it out!'' Taiga yelled.

---

Author notes:

Ok guys that's a wrap... or not.

Took a little more to finish this chapter than I thought. Holidays combined with school assignments sure did a number on me and left me with little free time... and the exam session is starting in a few days so I doubt I will be able to write anything anytime soon... man this will be a really long a shitty month for me... all college/university students who feel like ripping off their hair during exam period say 'Aye'.

I wonder if the fact that I pulled the whole 'unexpected villain' out of my ass, is a bad thing.

Anyway you are probably wondering about the whole Include switch stuff. I always wondered what would happen if a heroic spirit had multiple Noble phantasms, if that were the case if that hero was included which one would he gain. I mean think about Diarmund, he has the dual spears NP, but their each individual NP, and so if someone used his card which one of the spears would he get. So I decided to come on with the concept that if one has multiple NP, he can switch between them. But Archer doesn't technically have a NP of his own so...

Now the focus point of the chapter is Shirou famous 'Distortion'. It may be to early to show it, but i think its best for Sona and the others to learn from early just who they are dealing with. Plus it gives them more time to try and help Shirou cure it... well good luck with that... they would have more chances making Zelretch stop trolling people.

About the whole trying to figure out their powers and checking their elemental affinities shit, well i tried to show a parallel between Rias and Sona. I mean i think that what i did this chapter is something logical. Hear me out on this thing.

Imagine if hypothetically Issei didn't have Boosted Gear in the canon, but some other dangerous SG. Now imagine what could have happened in Issei had lets say Zennith Tempest instead. HE COULD HAVE CREATED A FREAKING TORNADO IN THE MIDDLE OF THE CITY AND TURN IT TO SHREDS WITH ALL ITS INHABITANTS IF HE ACTIVATED IT BY MISTAKE AND DIDN'T KNOW HOW TO CONTROL IT. (on a side note, all my respects to Dulio Gesualdo for not committing mass homicide by accident)

That's just a simple point there. While i don't like bashing people, lets be honest Rias is a big idiot sometimes, i mean seriously if you know that your pawn could have a dangerous SG the least you can do is try to figure out what it does or at least what it is. AND even if it turns out to be a shit like a Twice critical, you could at least try to teach him how to use it.

Anyway... Sona is much more logical than Rias. Perhaps it is because she had to work her way up with normal people and learn the importance of working together with her servants in order for them to grow. Now that i think about Sona actually represent very well the saying 'make up for talent with hard work' (pretty much like Shirou huh)

Now about Archer... if you were expecting something like what i did in 'Guardian of DxD'... well sorry to disappoint you, Archers gonna be our favorite mental snarker and jerk to Shirou for a while... i mean seriously, those two can't stand being near two meters of each, so imagine the horror of sticking them together like this... he may have seemed a little to open in helping Shirou, but don't jump to conclusions. His memories are indeed a bit foggy so he wouldn't be so friendly to Shirou. Also lets all be honest, i think we can all agree that it's better to have Archer like this, rather than not have him at all.

Beta: Shadow of Life

---

Let's answer some reviews:

To all the people who review about Gae Bolg's powers, you have my thanks. Really helped me figure some things out.

L33t Horo: Well it's not so shocking to think that. Sella may appear older than Shirou, but her age is actually around twelve years old.

DeathTheManiac: I guess that in a sense Shirou was never truly a strong individual, but through trial and experience he developed himself. This version of him needs a little time to reach that level.

Minazaki: He's Archer. If sarcasm was registered as a skill, he would probably have an A rank one.

Shadow of a Memory: Yeah, I wouldn't worry about the opening thing. It was a onetime thing. Don't worry, Rias will be a little annoyed when she sees what she missed out on. I won't go into details or spoilers, but some of the plot points from the canon Kaleid story will be included, but they will greatly differ, just as much as this version of Shirou differs from the canon Kaleid Shirou. About Shirou capabilities... it's a bit of a complicated thing, he will always have the chance to reach his peak, but it depends on certain choices he makes.

Silver soldier: While I don't have any planned moment, I will make one later to make you happy

Azelios: I'm not exactly nerfing Shirou. I'm just taking things slowly, one step at a time. I mean we would all like to see Shirou mop the floor with most DxD villains, but if he is strong from the start there won't be so much space for growth.

: I had a moment of weakness... it won't happen again... I think... Anyway I'm trying to see things from a more nasu verse like perspective. DxD can be serious too, but in terms of quality is a little lacking, so I'm trying to make up for that lack.

: Actually it depends from what perspective you see it. This version of Shirou is nothing but a clueless person to the whole supernatural and all, so he is basically just an above average human. You can't really say he was nerfed since he didn't have any pre-existing powers in the first place. Even if he isn't at the same level as canon Shirou (UBW or Miyu's brother), all he needs is couple of good old fights and the GAR will awaken. About the OP thing... no excuses... I had a small case of chuunibyou when I wrote that thing. Also if I were to let it get to me every time I had bad review on a story I probably have given up writing a long time ago.

dragonfighter11: Actually I am still debating about the parings. I am trying to avoid the whole mc meets certain girl and she falls for him in less than two chapters. So I think of building a base for relationships with certain girls, and see where it goes. But to make things more interesting, I will try to give attention to girls that don't really get so much screen time in the canon. About strength... let's just say he will become pretty strong... not too OP, but enough to make Sona proud.

the unsung antihero: Somehow your words touched me... don't know why...

InfinityMask: When the gathering happened and Sona had her fight with Rias she had an unused Rook, Knight and 3 unused Pawns. Even now in the canon she has 3 unused pawns. I simply used those 3 pawns on Shirou. About the age thing... hehehe you will see.

Agent Frank Underwood: For now it's just Shirou's POV. But there will be moments when it will have to change.

P.S. I wrote a FSN/Fairy Tail one shot, feel free to check it out and give it a thought.

Don't forget to review... no seriously review, i could use some constructive criticism.