(100% of the credit and ownership goes to the creators of Fate/Apocypha. I do NOT own any of it!)
Chapter 11: Call of Destiny
Present Day, Star Classification Region, Universe Throne of Heroes
At dawn Ruler had set out on her mission to rally the support and brainpower of the knowledgeable Heroic Spirit Nikola Tesla. She had decided to meet him before William Shakespeare, because if she was being honest with herself, William Shakespeare was a rather strange fellow. She would rather ask for the poet's assistance last. Jeanne also wanted to get the plan set in motion as soon as time possibly allowed, so Tesla could begin constructing the device needed for transportation to the Reverse Side of the World. Sieg, I'm coming for you.
Jeanne hoped that while meeting with Nikola Tesla, that she'd get some answers about her vision. Tesla was known to all in the Throne of Heroes as an exceptionally brilliant man. He may not know the exact topic on what she spoke of, but he could help her brainstorm possible ideas or a helpful hypothesis as to the general topic. Maybe she was being much too optimistic but she desperately wanted solutions for ways to prevent her vision from occurring.
When the vision of her death first began, the memories were hazy almost. The memories weren't clear. Over the last several days, it provided her some relief knowing that. However, each day that passed, her vision became clearer and more defined with clarity. She wasn't one to defy fate, but she hoped with all her might that dying 60 years from now without ever having seen Sieg again, was not set in stone. The future never stayed the same, yet why did it haunt her so?
Jeanne collapsed onto the ground in a lifeless clump. She coughed out a vast amount of blood staining her battle-dress amour further. She observed the sun disappear behind the mountain, turning the land a dark shade of midnight-black. Ruler's eyes stung from the pain of the blood escaping them. She forced herself to stay awake. In that instant, Jeanne knew she was going to die.
Jeanne shuddered fiercely at the thought and pushed it to the very back of her mind. Focus Ruler. You must focus at the task at hand. She had just entered the entrance to the vast dwelling place of Tesla. His living quarters were located quite some ways out from the Center of the Star Classification Region. It was a bit odd that he'd preferred solitude over living amongst others but who was she to judge another's lifestyle. Look at her life for a relevant example. She had fallen in love with a homunculus despite having been engaged to a wonderful man within her reach in the Human Classification region. I'm sorry Georgios, wherever you are.
Ruler had hit the doorbell several times already, with still no signs of anyone inside. She had been waiting an hour or so now. Ruler crossed her arms in annoyance and tried to be patient. Honestly, she knew he preferred the lone wolf lifestyle but this was pushing it a bit. After feeling the need to always one up the King of Inventors, Edison, Tesla had decided to live alone stating the world was his competitor. Still, the one time she had come to this man for help and here she was being blatantly ignored. Everyone in their right minds knew he never left his place. Give him a break Ruler. You're not this temperamental. Calm yourself. He will answer, just wait.
Jeanne took the opportunity to take in his home. She didn't think the word 'home' would be the proper description of this strange building. Nikola Tesla lived in a rather monumental sized concert hall with a small dome sized living quarter attached to the right side of it. Both buildings were midnight black with metal rods sticking off in every direction straight up in the sky, lighting up both buildings with a bright blue glow. Bizarre wasn't quite the word to describe its uniqueness. Tesla truly outdid himself in this creation. No Heroic Spirit in their right minds would daringly stroll right up to his domain without a good reason in doing so. Lord, continue to watch over me.
Tesla had heard the doorbell indicating an unexpected visitor had arrived a while ago now. He was right in the middle of his studies on the previous Grail War's events, and didn't want to be interrupted. He knew without a doubt that if the Heroic Spirit needed to speak to him badly enough, they would wait. Regardless, he never could have imagined who in their right minds would visit him so damn early in the day. He walked through the long hallway corridors until he finally arrived at his front entrance. Why do I even entertain such trivial things such as company anyway?
A few loud noises were heard behind the door until it cracked open a centimeter or so, revealing about ten locked chains attached along the side of the door. No doubt the chains were used as extra precaution taken in protecting Tesla from unwanted outside intruders. Finally, you show yourself to me. Ruler quickly looked up to the barely opened door where Tesla's tall form and his shockingly arctic blue eyes met hers. His right eyebrow raised in innocent curiosity. Tesla's uncommon eye color reminded her of electricity, dangerous and paralyzing when touched.
Nikola peeked his head outside to look upon who would dare intrude upon his beloved home when his eyes fell upon the most fascinating visitor, the Holy Maiden herself. Ruler was practically emanating a dangerously irritated aurora. My, this will be quite the interesting visit indeed my dearest Jeanne d'Arc. Little did you know, I've been excepting you for quite some time now. After each Grail War, Tesla passionately indulged in every record of all the events that had occurred during it. Battles, alliances, treachery, you name it, ever looking for a way back to Earth, to live there and continue his influential work.
"Jeanne d'Arc in the flesh! To what do I owe this great honor Holy Maiden? I will not lie to you. I've been expecting you to pay me an overdue visit since your return into the Throne of Heroes. It's been ages since I've been given the divine privilege of being in your lovely company. Such a shame that we are never in the same Grail War these days. I have the worst misfortune of being summoned alongside your beloved fiancé Saint George. What a pitiful, overly boastful man. You can do much, much better I fear," Tesla muttered in his distasteful foreign accent. He removed the remainder of the door's locks and placed a gentle hand behind Ruler's back ushering her inside his curious abode.
"I do greatly apologize for intruding unexpectedly. I admit that I should have given you more of a warning beforehand but the importance of the subject is far too great. I didn't want to wait any longer than necessary Nikola. It's not often I find myself in the Star Classification Region these days. On the topic of Saint George, I'm no longer in relations with him. We… just had different goals at the end of it all. He deserved far greater than what I could provide any longer," Ruler absently replied. Her eyes became hauntingly dark and emotionless. She remembered back to her last time seeing Georgios. How cruel and honest his confession had been. Jeanne couldn't ever stop thinking about him, he was eternally identified as being a part of herself.
"If I can ask you but one question it would be why Jeanne? Why in God's name did you ever let this happen? I love you to the deepest depths of my core. I gave you every bit of myself over the centuries. I've been patient with you. To think all our cherished memories, close companionship and solidarity with the other lay scattered carelessly on the dirtied floor. Did you remember you made a promise to me? Did you think of me even once while on Earth?" Georgios demanded hysterically.
"Respectfully Archer, I don't care to speak of him further. Now, may I please speak with you further in privacy?" Ruler asked hesitantly. She felt Tesla's strong hand touch her back and bring her inside. After she had entered through the door all the way, Tesla quickly shut it behind her and securely locked it shut again. Jeanne noticed that the long hallway was onyx black and the only small lights were coming from the lanterns placed horizontally along the wall's sides leading down an endless corridor.
"Rightfully so. I appreciate your honesty Jeanne. I accept your candid request to speak in privacy. We don't want any unwanted ears hearing your innermost thoughts and desires, right? We shall go discuss this matter further in my study room. It's located in one of the top-level rooms of the concert hall. Just follow my lead and don't let your curious eyes stray too far from my path," Tesla replied attentively. He put one of his hands through his long obsidian locks and arctic blue highlights. Nikola had never cared for Saint George. Good riddance to the ridiculous and overly sappy buffoon. He never knew why Jeanne found comfort in Georgios's presence anyway.
"Thank you, from the bottom of my heart Nikola. Let's get going than," Ruler responded with a small thankful smile. She followed Tesla's lead down the never-ending hallways and unusual curves they took to get to his study room. Odd paintings of various designs from failed experiments were spread throughout the wall's halls. Jeanne lost track of how much time had passed but she continued following Tesla's strong stance. He walked forth effortlessly weaving in and out of every direction possible to his room. Suddenly, Tesla stopped abruptly in his tracks.
A thundering rumbling was heard through the halls. Jeanne felt her legs begin to convulse as the solid ground Archer and she had been standing on moments ago, started to shake dangerously. Fear and uncertainty filled her mind. A trap perhaps? Had she been foolishly tricked? Jeanne started to steady her balance and back away from Archer defensively. He continued standing face forward and back to her. His figure appeared unshaken and relatively calm. Trust him Ruler, you have nothing to lose from this. You've fought against much more sinister and unforgiving forces. You are in the presence of the Professor of Thunder and Lightning.
"Be still now Ruler. I use lightening for several things in my daily life. As such, I've created lightening stairs that will bring us directly to my study chambers. Don't fear or be alarmed. It may take a few seconds for it to configure. You must understand, extra security measures of course," Tesla replied amused. He turned his head to the side to meet her inquisitive amethyst eyes. How trusting would the Crimson Saint be in his honest confession? She never ceased to enrapture him. He'd been keeping a watchful eye on Jeanne since she materialized into the Throne of Heroes. Her heartfelt beauty and compassionate heart was unlike any other woman he had met.
Ruler decided ultimately to trust his words. He could have endangered her at any time yet he didn't lay a finger on her. Suddenly, Jeanne and Tesla were being lifted into the sky off what appeared like lightening itself. Ruler felt like she was in a fairy book or mystical tale. The lightening beneath their feet dropped them off at what she assumed was Archer's study room.
Archer hopped off the lightning bolt and held out his hand to Ruler. Ruler took his hand and descended onto the stable white marble ground. Archer opened the navy-blue doors to the study room and they were met with a library filled with hundreds to thousands of books on the Throne of Spirits and Heroic Spirits. Ruler dropped her mouth in awe of the room's vast energy source.
"I've researched the War you were recently involved in Ruler. I know all the events, every one of them you see. Whenever a Grail War concludes, I go to Akio Tower and make copies of them. However, I've studied yours quite thoroughly as it was a rather unusual one. At the end of it all, it seems you fancied a homunculus, humph? It never mentions his name but all your actions seemed to point towards protecting him. A very valiant man who decided to transform to Fafnir the dragon himself and carry the Greater Grail to the Reverse Side of the World. Very unusual. The Heroic Spirit Siegfried hasn't returned and it seems the All-Mighty Governing Body has a price on your head and memories. Does your meeting with me have something to do with this?" Archer asked bluntly.
"What you speak of is the truth. I've come here today to ask a question somewhat involving all of it. During the events of the previous Grail War, I fell for a homunculus. He held a rather large role during this War, and before I knew it my fate was tied to his. As a result, I've decided I must travel to the beastly domain and retrieve Sieg. He is the homunculus you spoke of just now. However, it involves many years of planning to come to pass. In a vision, I saw you made a device that makes this a small possibility? Do you know of the device I speak of? Which leads me to asking if it is possible for a Heroic Spirit to perish by the hands of another Spirit? I've researched this topic tirelessly with no results. Very recently, I've had a vision of my death," Ruler asked inquisitively. She hoped he may be even to provide some clues, an answer perhaps.
"A Heroic Spirit can very well die Ruler, in a certain method of course. Once they die, the memories of both their life on Earth and of the Heroic Spirit in the Throne of Heroes is 'suspended' you could say. They cease to exist for 60 years. The day of their death while in the Throne of Heroes is a rather uncommon phenomenon. They dematerialize to black sparkling orbs, releasing themselves into stars above the sky. During the 60-year period, they remain in an unchanging state until they are reborn back into the Throne of Heroes cycle. Once born, all memories of their former life in the Throne of Heroes is eliminated and they are never able to retrieve it again. This isn't public information, only known to the Governing Body themselves. If Heroic Spirits knew this or had access to this knowledge, it would surely create a panic or riot even. The only reason I've come across this bit of information is luck of the draw and many days lurking secretly in the shadows. It's come of use I suppose," Tesla admitted unashamed.
Jeanne d'Arc felt her gory and useless body begin to dematerialize to black sparkling orbs, releasing themselves into stars above the sky.
She knew the words Tesla spoke of now were the truth. In her vision, she had been met with the same blasted fate, even the same description. Could her fate be different, altered even?
"As for the device you spoke of, it is in its final testing phases. I should have it ready within the next few years effortlessly. It took centuries designing it because no one of this Universe is said to have ever stepped foot into the mysterious beastly domain. Even more reason why I wanted to find a means to get there. You could go in my place and I would be more than happy to assist you with this. As for the vision of your death. Who exactly killed you and why?" Tesla asked coolly.
"The King of Knights. She killed me the day I tried to travel to the Reverse Side of the World with the device you had created. She said, 'You must understand, your dream of him. Of Sieg, was never meant to occur. Forgive me friend. If anyone is to blame, I blame myself and not being strong enough for you… But the will of the Throne of Heroes must prevail. It is essential.' She didn't want me to find Sieg. I wasn't even a chance against her," Ruler replied vaguely.
"You cannot defeat Arturia Pendragon as you are now. You must summon the other Jeanne Servant classes. Do this and you would be a fair match against the King, or even surpass her on every level," Tesla replied as his hand went up to stroke his chin strangely. Very interesting. Had Ruler never been told this information before?
"What are you talking about? That is out of the question and impossible," Ruler responded quietly. Summon the other parts of herself? Ridiculous and far-fetched. There wasn't such a thing. She'd never once heard of it. She crossed her arms across her chest in confusion.
"My lovely Saint, are you not aware? I fear you are not knowledgeable on this topic yet you do not pry any further? Well, let me enlighten you. Some Heroic Spirits have the scarce capability of being summoned not just in a single class, but in a few entirely different classes. Simply my dear, it all depends on the Summoning during the Grail War. A simple change of verse in an incantation may very well be the difference in altering the Heroic Spirit's class to the Master's preference. However, not all Heroic Spirits have this ability, only the chosen few have this occur. You know, don't you? That you are one of those chosen," Tesla stated in apprehension as he slowly looked over to gaze deep into Jeanne's fearful eyes.
"I… I don't understand," Jeanne replied bewildered. Goosebumps went up her spine and her skin felt ice cold. Ruler took a few steps back and ran into one of Tesla's oddly shaped tables where several books fell over onto his desk. Ruler looked down at one of the books and the side was labeled 'Heroic Spirits Many Faced Capabilities!' As if destiny had provoked it, the dreaded page that it had opened to spoke of none other than Jeanne d'Arc herself, revealing three versions of herself staring back up at her: Ruler, Lancer, Avenger. What does this mean? Who are you… I'm a Ruler… I'm no Lancer or Avenger.
"But you do understand. I'm afraid you've known all along but chose to blind yourself to it. Jeanne d'Arc, you already know that you classify as being the Ruler Servant. You are the strongest version of yourself, the original you could say. If a Heroic Spirit can take on different classes of a Servant, then the one who ultimately returns to the Throne of Heroes and manifests in a body is the strongest of all the different personalities. Ruler, you are the strongest of your potential selves. When Lancer or Avenger are summoned, they 'borrow' your body per say and upon their finished purpose in a Grail War, they rematerialize back into the Throne of Heroes in your body and slumber in a beast manifestation as they are unable to take on a human form as they are. They reside in the deepest root of your soul. They have no body or human manifestation of their own, unless… you decide to call them forth. You are the only one who can awaken them and give them a part of your soul in exchange so you're able to give them a human body," Tesla stated inquisitively. His eyebrows peeked up and his eyes glistened with dark promise.
"Even if what you were saying was the truth, why would I do such a preposterous thing such as that? Waking up who? Avenger… Lancer? Why? I have a plan. If I am destined to die the day of the next Grail war in my valiant attempt to rescue Sieg, so be it. Who am I to challenge fate? Who am I to challenge the Lord's plan for my life?" Ruler challenged. Her amethyst eyes turned to revolted slits. Her body shaking slightly at the newest disclosure.
Surely, she had known all along. She felt as if there was always something inside of her, something that wasn't truly apart of herself. Jeanne's hands grabbed onto the nearest table and she steadied herself. Ruler brazenly looked back down at the picture of two women and one girl. The first woman was herself. Jeanne saw a picture of herself with "Jeanne d'Arc, the Saint of Orleans – Ruler Class Servant" labeled above the picture. Her amethyst eyes showed goodness and steadfast kindness with fierce strength.
The second woman took Ruler's breath away. Jeanne's fingers traced this unknown woman's outline. This woman had Ruler's identical body type except her eyes were a magnificent golden-yellow color, recollecting a bright moon on a pure black evening. Her eyes promised a sweet revenge. Her skin was as pale as a ghost, and hair was a more greyish-silver color than Ruler's daisy blonde. Her battle amour and dress were ebony black. She looked completely opposite from Ruler yet strangely similar. If Ruler was day, this woman was night. If Jeanne was good, this woman was evil. Above this woman's picture was labeled "Jeanne Alter – Avenger Class Servant."
Lastly, was the girl. This girl was young in appearance, a child. She had a very small and thin body type. Her eyes and hair were similar if not the same as Avenger's except she had two red and green ribbons on each side of her head. Her golden eyes reflected seriousness but had an innocence to them. The young girl's attire was mostly white with hints of black and red. Her flag also had a red and green ribbon attached to it. Above this girl's picture was labeled "Jeanne Alter Santa Lily – Lancer Class Servant."
"If you are to stand a chance against the renowned and mighty King of Knights, you must summon them. If you do not summon them soon, you will eventually die Ruler. You already saw it in your vision. The only way out of this is to pave a new path. This is the path that will provide you a different destiny. You must call out to it. If you don't like the fate life has dealt to you, fight for a new one, a better one. The Reverse Side of the World is possible to reach with my device and their help," Tesla pleaded with her. He hoped Ruler would come to her senses before it was far too late.
"I don't think I can. Could I ever forgive myself for turning to such drastic measures? To bring more life into the Throne of Heroes when they both would eventually perish by my hands. I do not think it's something I could live with. I will rescue Sieg but not this way as I currently am. I must get stronger," Ruler replied defensively. Ruler couldn't turn to black magic for help. Could she?
"You are not condemning them to such a life at all. They will live and breathe as they see fit. Let me fight alongside you and help you Jeanne. If you three Jeannes were to harness your powers and combine those forces, just think of the possibilities. Summon them. Let me help you summon them. If you care as deeply and as much for the homunculus boy as you say you do, this is the only way to him. I'm truly sorry Jeanne, but it is just how unfortunate our odds are sometimes," Tesla looked down to look to gaze upon Avenger and Lancer's pictures. Yes, they were exactly what Jeanne needed to aide her.
A dragon's gaze meets her own as he opens his eyes, gentle but purposeful. This kind dragon with the stunning teal-green eyes, begins pumping his vast wings and starts flying off into the bright sky, holding the Greater Grail within his hands to another world, to the sanctuary of beasts that lay beyond man's reach. This unknown dragon, she was sure she would meet him again. Although not in this lifetime of man, but in her life granted to her beyond this world. His identify although unknown to many others, revealed himself to her. Sieg, oh Sieg, I'll find you. I'll find you no matter how long it may take or the long journey that lay ahead of me, we are destined to meet again.
Upon her dying breath of the prior Grail War, she promised Sieg. She made a promise she had no intention of ever breaking. She wanted to save Sieg from an eternity of solitude. She wanted to spend every day beside him holding his hand. She wanted to have children and a little family of her own. All of which, she couldn't do as she was now. She let memories flood her senses.
"It is alright. No matter how long it may take to accomplish, I will make sure that we will meet again someday," Ruler looked up at Sieg with the utmost care and fierce determination. She would find a world where they were destined to be reunited. In her vision she had seen Sieg transform into the majestic dragon Fafnir, carrying the Greater Grail to the Reverse Side of the World. If this vision was truly to come to pass, she would find him. She would find that world beyond man's reach then awaken him from his deep slumber. She was determined to travel beyond time and space's grasps to be by his side once again.
"I'll do it. I will summon them. How do I go about doing such an intricate task?" Ruler replied convinced. If this path was wrong, she would meet her demise at the end of it all regardless. If she were destined to die that awful death 60 years from now, so be it. Right now, this is the only option that made sense.
"Follow me and I'll give you the answers you seek," Tesla responded eagerly. He knew Ruler would eventually make the best choice. She didn't really have much to go from, but the Saint had guts and he'd always valued that about her. He took Jeanne's hand and guided her down more hallways until they arrived at two huge oak crimson doors. Ruler raised an eyebrow at Tesla and he smiled in response and opened the doors to reveal a superb orchestra hall that stood thousands of feet high and wide.
Tesla purposefully walked Jeanne over to the center of the empty orchestra hall of Tesla's domain. Once in the center, he drew a summoner circle seal around her. Ruler looked around the vast space. Its ceilings were so far up, she couldn't see the top of the structure. All she saw were glimmering lights, more than likely electricity supplying energy and light into the room. The large space was void of any recliner chairs or anything for that matter. Archer bent down and intricately started configuring the summoning circles necessary for a successful summoning. He took his time until two summoning circles were firmly etched on both sides of the marble floor.
Ruler's breathing threatened to become irregular due to the anxiety of the unknown that was soon to unfold. Had she made the right choice? What if this didn't work? Was she just an overly optimistic and misguided girl hopelessly in love? She compelled herself to look stronger and more confident than she more than likely appeared to Archer. Ruler couldn't bring herself to look him in the eyes. She brought one of her hands to her heart and made a determined fist.
"There is no room for failure Jeanne d'Arc. One fragment of apprehension and you may very well die here. Clear your mind of all doubts, all desires, all trivial thoughts. Focus only on picturing Avenger and Lancer's faces and them alone. This and this alone will work. I will not fail you Ruler. Now listen closely, I've specifically designed my very own Tesla coils for this very occasion. These coils are needed to focus the immeasurable mana source needed to summon two Heroic Spirits out of the central higher being's spirit core. In this case, the central higher being is yourself. Are you following me?" Archer demanded tense. He placed both of his hands on her shoulders and inspected her hesitant purple eyes. A drop of sweat fell from his inimitable handsome face.
"I stand here without a trace of apprehensive second thoughts or meaningless fear. I am ready for whatever must occur next Tesla. Please continue because I give my unrestricted consent. I understand the complications and risks. Take this as you will Archer but do not lead me astray. I guarantee I do not tolerate those who break their promises and have ill will embedded within their soul. Evil will be punished and unforgiven as the Lord deems right," Ruler guaranteed. She gave him a perplexed look and wondered if Archer would lead her down a dark path, one she couldn't return from no matter how hard she fought against it.
"I guarantee on my eternal mission that I bear no loathing or tricks. Take my words as they are, truthful and honest. I do not hide or deny that my greatest wish that lies within this soul's purpose is to complete the unparalleled 'Nikola Tesla World System' which will incorporate interacting electric currents letting them unleash from Earth and go in space itself. I will spare no efforts in completing this. As you will do everything within your power to stand amongst the homunculus, is exactly how I feel about the World System," Tesla desperately confessed. He challenged her to change his mind. His bright arctic eyes flickered with distress.
"I do not approve of wanting to change Earth's way as you have had a chance to live your life but if it is the only way in which you will pledge allegiance with me, I will put my faith in you. Do realize that if you are to travel to Earth again, you must give up all rights and break the eternal contract that comes with being a Heroic Spirit. Additionally, I trust that when designing this system, you bear no malicious intent to humans or the planet itself. Swear this to me! If I find you withholding further information, I will not forgive you for it," Jeanne promised undaunted.
"I bear no such feelings or objectives Jeanne. Now that we have a clear understanding of the other, if I'm to finish designing the device needed for travel to the Reverse Side of the World as well as give you access to the Tesla coils to summon Avenger and Lancer, it will cost you dearly. I will support your end goal but do realize I must also find a way to have my aim completed. You are my way of doing just that. Are you ready or opposed to the next steps?" Archer reluctantly revealed. His face bore grey shadows of hesitation.
"Your rationale is easy to follow and I do see where you are coming from. But what will it cost me exactly?" Ruler asked suspiciously. She stepped backwards until his hands on her shoulders dropped back to his sides. Her eyes became indecipherable becoming a shade darker. Is whatever he is about to say worth the price? Is it enough? Will it ever be enough or even stop there?
"In order to delicately instill the powerful Tesla coils within your spiritual energy, I must place a great deal of my mana in you. When I'm placing the coils, it will leave an electrical cross shaped tattoo across your entire back. Its ink will be arctic blue, identical to my eye color. If you had to picture it or have more of an idea of it, it is very similar to the one you had on your back in the most recent Grail War. Once the cross is on your back, the Tesla coils will successfully allow you to summon and maintain Avenger and Lancer in the Throne of Heroes and this universe alone. If defeated, they will dematerialize back inside of you and fall into a deep slumber again," Archer informed her solemnly. He looked away from her to look down at the marble floor.
"I do not think that's entirely unfair. How will you instill the coils on my back?" Ruler questioned. Her left hand moved to her spine and felt it up and down. She was used to those needing her back for Grail Wars to house the command seals. It was part of her duty as a Ruler Class Servant. She didn't see Tesla's suggestion as anything too unreasonable. He was bound by duty to perform what he saw fit and name as a worthy price. She wasn't opposed to the idea.
"To instill the coils on your back, I need you to turn around with your back to my front side. You will have to undress from the top of your head to your waist down, completely bare of any clothing or magical items. Once undressed, I will have us both relax into each other's stance. When your back is against my chest, my hands will start forming the necessary patterns. We need to be as close as physically possible so I'm able to successfully transfer my mana and make it your own. Once doing this, please realize we will be connected Jeanne. We will be connected in the way that the cross will not disappear until your promise to me has been completed. Once you retrieve Sieg from the Reverse Side of the World, go to Earth. Once on Earth, summon me immediately. The very second, I am summoned the cross will disappear and we will no longer be aligned. You will be free of me and our alliance. As for the device needed to go to the beastly domain, it will take several years to finish but I can do it," Tesla replied truthfully.
Archer tore his gaze away from the marble floor to look back at Jeanne who was currently sporting the biggest blush he had ever seen. Her entire face was colored a deep shade of magenta. Her eyes were large with disbelief and mouth was dropped flabbergasted. He couldn't help but smirk largely at the sight. Did she honestly think he was that big of a pervert? Tesla would never compromise her or her morals, ever. It was just what was necessary to implant the coils, nothing more.
"Is… Is… that true? The honest to God truth? If there is simply no other way, I guess I will go along with it….," Ruler stuttered mortified. Her blush grew larger until she was sure her entire body was blushing. Her heart accelerated from the embarrassment of having to get partially naked in front of a middle-aged man she barely knew beyond being acquaintances. She had been saving herself for marriage both while living the life of a human and that of a Heroic Spirit. The only man she wanted to have see her naked was the one she wanted to spend her forever with. She wanted Sieg to be the only one to see her bare and exposed. As soon as the thought of Sieg seeing her so vulnerable crossed her mind, it sent her into a further state of embarrassment.
"Stop looking at me like that! Honestly Jeanne, could you be more of a teenager at heart? It's quite alarming really. For God's sake and all that's holy in the world, I'm not asking for sexual intercourse. You are far too young for me my beautiful Saint. Though time and age is nothing whatsoever in the Throne of Heroes, I only view you as a stunning view. Not one I'd want in such a way. You will only reveal your back, nothing more during the transfer. I will respect you entirely, you have my word as both a man and Heroic Spirit. The sooner we begin and finish this the better," Tesla laughed. He looked at her quizzically and couldn't stop laughing. Truly, Jeanne d'Arc was like none other.
"I'm… I'm… Ah! I guess I'm ready then. I'd rather do this right now and not wait," Ruler shyly replied still unconvinced. She looked back at Tesla who was still laughing at her. How embarrassing was this day going to get? Breathe Ruler. She turned away from Tesla with her back facing him. She couldn't stop the blush as she compelled herself to focus at the task alone. Slowly she removed her metal head decoration and loosened the top half of her clothing, letting it fall daringly to her waist. Her mind wondered to Sieg and the moment his face entered her mind, she calmed herself. You're doing this for Sieg and only him. She knew it would be over soon.
Tesla watched Ruler from behind as she gradually undressed herself. Her well defined curves, long and thick blonde hair she almost always held back in a tight braid and her innocence rendered Archer astonished. He found himself unable to look away. She almost seemed to glow under the vast space's lightening emitting itself above them. As soon as her top half was bare, she held up her hefty shaped breasts in her left hand. Then, she nervously placed her braid in the front of her body with her right hand so it could give Archer the space he needed to attach the coils to her back.
What a lucky man Sieg was to be given this blessing of a woman and her utmost affections. He wondered if the homunculus lust after Jeanne the way others did in the Throne of Heroes. She was a rare breed of a woman between her physical attributes and exclusive personality. All these reasons were why countless men adored her and sought her heart. Nevertheless, he didn't make any desirous moves and had no intention of taking advantage of the stunning Holy Maiden.
Tesla unbuttoned his shirt until his robust chest was exposed to the cold breeze around them. After taking some time to compose himself, he took modest steps toward Jeanne until he was a few centimeters away from her naked back. Her heart belongs to another man. Stay steady. "Jeanne, relax your back into my chest when you're ready, okay?" Archer stammered softly. He bent down until he was on his knees and waited for her to willingly kneel in front of him. He shut his eyes and patiently waited for her next move.
Ruler took a few more long, deep breaths and she calmly moved her body down until she felt her knees touch the marble floor. Her hot blush made her entire body blazing hot. Breathe, in and out. Agonizingly slow, she relaxed her back until she felt it connect with Tesla's firm chest. Tesla and Ruler began breathing in unison, their eyes shut tight. She felt Archer begin the daunting task of embedding the coils. Sieg, I am yours, forever yours. I'll be with you intimately one day, I do not have doubts.
"Sometimes two people with broken foundations must come together as a team and build a stronger and new indestructible foundation as one. I, Nikola Tesla, Archer-Class Servant join with Jeanne d'Arc, Ruler-Class Servant's mana so it may flow as one being. Let this electricity mark the path of a new beginning and let it evaporate to nothingness as the promise is met. So, the two will become one flow. So, they are no longer two, but one flesh. So, the two are united into one," Tesla chanted quietly. Jeanne felt Archer's hand move into her back making different signs with his fingers. Her golden mana mixed with his arctic blue until the two joined together in unison shaped as a helix held inside of both their spirits deepest dwelling place.
As soon as the incantation began, it was over. It was captivatingly simple yet perplexingly complex. Tesla and Jeanne opened their eyes and separated so they could change in private from the other. Archer buttoned his shirt while Jeanne tangled her clothing up until it was back in its rightful place. Jeanne felt the new arctic blue cross shaped tattoo into her back simmer with a life of its own. After both Heroic Spirits were dressed, they faced each other in a different light.
"It has been done and our pact has been forged. There is no going back, only forward from here Jeanne d'Arc. Begin the summoning for the Heroic Spirits Avenger and Lancer. Bring forth your inevitable victory so you may one day stand beside the man of your dreams. You already know the incantation from the book I showed you earlier. Cut your palms open and let your blood fall into the circle in the center of the room. When you're ready, begin the chant needed," Tesla stated as he turned his back to her so he could stand safely to the side during the summoning.
Ruler watched as his back got smaller and smaller into the distance. She took a small knife from one of the pockets of her battle amour. Then, she cut both her palms and let the blood pour mercilessly out from them onto the summoner circle she stood on. The blood hungrily ignited with the circle. It ran a small trickle to both sides of the summoning circles that stood in opposite directions from where she currently stood.
Tesla walked over until he stood in the one of the four corners of the massive room. Making sure to stay clear of the two corners that housed the summoning circles. His eyes squinted with concern and uneasiness for what would occur next. He wanted to ensure he stayed close in case Ruler needed his assistance. It was essential this summoning went flawless. Archer looked up and saw Jeanne taking steady breaths in and out. You can do this Ruler. The rest is up to you.
Jeanne stood proud in the middle of the space with one palm facing the left summoning circle and her other palm facing the right side. Jeanne steadied herself until her body was in unison. Next, she pushed herself to pour all the spiritual energy she could muster into their renowned celestial power and still be conscious to continue the incantation necessary. Let's begin my risky call of destiny.
"Heed my words, my will creates your body and your sword creates my destiny. If you heed this Holy Maiden's call and obey my will and reason than answer my summoning. Awaken from your slumber deep within my depths and become your own entity in the Universe Throne of Heroes. My blood shall become your blood as my life force weakens to bring you to life," Ruler called forth purposefully. More blood began spilling from her palms onto the ground, pain emanating harshly from her hands.
Jeanne closed her eyes tightly to take her mind off the pain and focus at the challenging task at hand. When she shut her eyes, she saw two unidentified beings with their eyes sealed shut, swiftly pop open as if answering her call. Their golden eyes looked deep within Ruler's soul and threatened to break her into thousands of pieces on the blood tinted floor. Who are you? Are you who I seek? Ruler opened her eyes with fright at what she had just witnessed, nevertheless she pushed herself onward. No, I can do this.
"I hereby swear that I shall be all that's pure in this world, that I shall defeat all those that stand across my path and threaten the safety of the man who sacrificed his very life to live an eternity in solitude in exchange for their fate," Ruler continued unraveled. Jeanne felt her spirit core abruptly split into three pieces. Two glowing white orbs emerged outside of Ruler's glowing chest and separated going to opposite summoning circles. Tesla began laughing wildly in the background, his laughter becoming louder with each passing moment.
"I, Ruler, Jeanne d'Arc willingly and gladly spill my holy blood to the ground at your command. Come forth from your spiritual holding and take root as a Heroic Spirit of this land. Come forth and fight alongside me. Be my equal, be what is right, be what is fair," Ruler whispered as her strength staggered.
The vast orchestra hall went blindingly bright with beaming sunlight rays. Tesla and Jeanne squinted their eyes in response, otherwise their eyesight would surely go blind from the light's outrageous strength. What is happening?
"For the Lord your God is He who goes with you to fight for you against your enemies, to give you the victory. Wonderful, Glorious, Holy, Righteous, Victorious, Conqueror, Triumphant and Mighty, Shield and Defense, Deliver, Omnipotent, Alpha, Omega is Your Name," Ruler hastily called out.
The two summoning circles etched on the ground in opposite parts of the immense space glistened fiercely with sapphire blue as they severely reacted with Ruler's crimson blood.
"Hear me as I will entrust you and teach you in the way you should go; I will counsel you with my eye upon you. But let justice roll down like waters, and righteousness like an ever-flowing stream. You may not yet understand what I'm doing now, but someday you will. Perhaps, this is the moment for which you have been created. Awaken!" Ruler cried into the space.
The ground beneath Tesla and Jeanne started to shake violently and a roar shrieked throughout the open space, echoing vociferously off the halls. The barrier Tesla had put up around the hall threatened to break from the unknown creature's cry.
Abruptly the left side of the room broke out in a demonic eruption of blood-orange flames with butterscotch tints gleaming within them, that turned the very air around them into scorching hot sears. The heat melted the very summoning circle it stood on.
Ruler felt her heart beat agonizingly slow, unsure of the hell she had just unleashed. It felt as if she had entered the evil gates of Hell itself. Screams blasted throughout the hall becoming louder and louder, swaying Ruler and Tesla's balance from the sheer volume. Windows cracked on cue as the intensity of the beast's cry continued increasing tremendously.
A colossal sized vermilion dragon emerged from the left side of the summoning circle in a blood-curling roar. It easily crushed the floor with its weight. Mammoth claws busted the ground below it into shreds. Its teeth were so sharp it could tear apart anything it wished at ease. A single tooth was the size of Jeanne herself. The dragon threw its neck up towards the ceiling and gigantic scarlet flames erupted from its mouth. The dragon Beowulf… this…. this isn't possible. It defies nature itself. This must be Avenger's beast form.
"Beowulf… steady," Ruler stated in complete awe. She hoped she sounded more commanding and unmoved than she felt at this given second. Her knees felt wobbly yet she found the internal stability to continue standing straight. Did this beast come from the Reverse Side of the World?
Beowulf's head quickly turned to meet Ruler's voice. The dragon's golden menacing eyes blazed with undying hostility and utter distaste. The beast opened its wide mouth and wailed angrily at Jeanne. The beast's wet saliva and hot breath overwhelmed Jeanne as she felt her hair fly backwards from its deathly loud scream. Its maddened face just centimeters away from killing Ruler instantly if it wished it.
Her heart beat recklessly in her chest and Ruler prayed to the Lord above this wouldn't be her demise. Lord, help me… I don't know. Isaiah 41:10 crossed her mind. 'So, do not fear, for I am with you; Do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you. I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.' Breathe Ruler, it's okay, you are okay.
"No weapon that is formed against thee shall prosper; and every tongue that shall rise against thee in judgement thou shalt condemn. This is the heritage of the servants of the Lord, and their righteousness is of me, said the Lord. Though I walk through the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for thou art with me; thy rod and thy staff they comfort me. Thou prepare a table before me in the presence of mine enemies," Ruler boldly declared. She stepped forward and placed her bloodied left palm near Beowulf's mouth.
Tesla laughed wickedly in the background and filled the hot air with his brilliant madness. His jet-black hair stood up crazily due to the current predicament and from Beowulf's previous screeching. Had he left Throne of Heroes refuge for that of Hell? He fell backwards from the insanity of the situation and caught himself with his hands just before his back connected with the marble floor. My God! Is this real?! Is the Saint mad? An unconsciously desired swift death perhaps?
Shockingly, Beowulf calmed down once Ruler's palm met the beast's hardened scales. Thank you, Lord, I will take this small victory. She gazed into the dragon's malicious eyes and rested her forehead against it. Jeanne and Beowulf calculated the other until another alarmingly loud sound emerged from the right side of the room. Jeanne, Beowulf and Tesla looked over to see what or who was behind the sudden noise.
An arctic teal white fox appeared from the right summoning circle. If Beowulf was Avenger, this must be Lancer's beastly manifestation. Seishin Kitsune, the magical fox. The fox spirit was currently circling Ruler and Beowulf quietly. It's golden eyes mimicked Beowulf's resolute color. It howled soothingly into the orchestra's space with its cry echoing gently to all in its presence. Each step it took around them, turned the ground beneath its paws to crystal ice. Snow began falling fast from the ceiling.
"The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit. But those who wait for the Lord will renew their strength. They will mount up with wings like eagles. They will run, and not be weary. They will walk, and not faint," Ruler unknowingly announced to the fox. She looked brazenly at the teal arctic beast. A modest smile formed across Jeanne's face, her eyes softened to its elegant beauty.
The beast stopped in its tract and positioned its head toward the ceiling and started spraying out ice shards encasing its body in a snowy cocoon. Immediately, Beowulf stepped away from Jeanne a lengthy distance until the dragon had a decent amount of space around it. Beowulf mimicked Seishin Kitsune's stance and started enveloping itself in a wildfire of angry flames until its body was completely covered in a molten black shell. Both beast's cocoons started gleaming Prussian blue.
Jeanne's eyesight was overwhelmed by the sight of the beasts transforming and her memories became clouded from the past, resonating with her now more than they ever had before. She closed her eyes longingly and hesitantly pondered back to it. Why did it haunt her now? Am I evil for having summoned two beasts from within myself? To fight in the dreaded battle ahead? Ruler fell to her knees disoriented.
Flashback, Trifas Romania
"Ruler, one last question. Why won't Archer of Red ever forgive you," Sieg asked curiously as he continued staring where Chiron had just dematerialized to loyally return to his Master's side. He stole a quick glance over to Ruler then decided he was too nervous to watch her face as she responded honestly with her answer to the question he dared himself to ask. Thus, he continued looking straight ahead at the bricked wall braving himself for the reply soon to come.
"You can be seen as good or you can be seen as evil. It varies based on the point of view. In Archer of Red's eyes, I am clearly evil," Ruler replied solemnly as she looked down to stare at the ground. As soon as she said that dreaded confession out loud, she heard Sieg silently gasp and felt his desperate stare look over to hers to try and attempt to get her eyes to meet his. Almost begging her to look over and assure him this truth was not the case.
"You're not… right?" Sieg stated cautiously as he turned his body away from the wall to stand directly to the left side of Ruler. His eyes revealed different emotions between concern, desperation and doubt. He watched Ruler's enchanting purple eyes he'd grown to admire so deeply, go dark with misery then solid with regrettable conviction seconds later. He wanted greatly to hold her close and console her troubled thoughts. Sieg wanted to assure her she wasn't the woman she made herself out to be.
"You see, it is exactly as she said. I am not the Holy Maiden people say I am. At least, I have never felt that way," Ruler countered with discontent. She couldn't bring herself to gaze into Sieg's confused eyes. To see the eyes of the man she had been protecting with all her might, just to look at her in a new-found light. No, she was foolish. Selfish even for wanting him to keep looking at her differently. Her face went grey in disapproval and slight disgust with herself.
"Ruler…," Sieg responded empathetic. His eyes melted in concern and unspoken understanding. He wanted to reach out and touch her to bring her thoughts of a past lived long ago to the farthest part of her mind. How dearly he desired to turn her troubled past into one of happiness in the present. Ruler was not evil. Ruler was a woman who stood tall, brave and unparalleled. Oh Ruler, why can't you forgive yourself? Do you think so poorly of yourself? You are not evil Ruler, you are what is good and pure. One day I hope you can see it as clearly as I do.
Tesla's Domain, Star Classification Region
Ruler felt a single tear escape from behind her eyes, holding back the sob that threatened to fill the room. Her heart's memories throbbed achingly inside of her. She pictured Sieg's handsome and concerned face look at her with such softness. What I wouldn't give to have you stand beside me now, for I fear I'm not acting on my strength alone, but of my cherished God above me. Am I evil Sieg? Am I so corrupt for having gone to such great lengths to reunite with you? I fear I no longer have an answer anymore.
Ruler fearlessly looked up to see that the woman and the girl from Tesla's book from earlier had come into existence. Jeanne's incantation had been successful and the proof stood from their respectful sides of the room. They were truly standing before her very much alive and breathing in the flesh. No longer was the crimson fire dragon and the teal arctic fox standing before her, but the Heroic Spirits themselves in a physical human body. Avenger… Lancer… you exist.
"I ask you. Are you worthy of being our equal, Jeanne d'Arc?" demanded Avenger and Lancer in unison. Two pairs of blazing golden eyes met uncertain drowsy amethyst. Jeanne collapsed from the extreme fatigue after summoning such formidable parts from within herself to that of independent heroes. She held her flag close to her body as blood trickled down her fingers from holding the flag's rod so tightly within her grasp. Disbelief and amazement overwhelmed her senses from seeing Avenger and Lancer birth into existence before her very own eyes.
"They call me the Dragon Witch, pitiful Holy Maiden," Avenger stated eerily as she looked up with a hypnotizing pernicious white smile. Her bewitching gold eyes sparkled with hate and amusement. The commanding fire around her began slowly dissipating as vast amounts of black smoke replaced it, swirling in a menacing cyclone pattern around Jeanne Alter. Tesla's marble floors cracked dangerously beneath Avenger as she smirked viciously. Raw earth-shattering power radiated from Ruler's dark double.
"Aspiring Santa Joan of Arc my dear Ruler," Lancer declared with a kind smile. She observed Ruler closely. Lancer's smile was soon replaced with a curiously stern frown, unsure of what to make of the situation at hand. Little snowflakes fell gently from the sky above her, threatening to unleash a blizzard without a moments warning. Northern lights emitted down upon Lancer making her appear as a graceful snow angel. The ground turned into a frozen snow pile around her. Ruler tilted her head to the side and Lancer's interested golden eyes softened slightly.
"I am… Jeanne d'Arc, the Saint of Orleans," Ruler replied weakly. Jeanne d'Arc used her flag to steady herself and stand proud. Swiftly, an angelic and divine golden light transmitted around Ruler revealing to all those who stood around her, she was the one and only, the great sanctified higher being in the very flesh. If this is the path I must pave to reach my goal, I will do so. I must if I am destined to live and to be granted passage to the beastly domain.
An ominous presence filled the air as Lancer and Avenger meticulously studied Ruler. Avenger's black smoky tornado made its way to surround Ruler's sluggish golden form. Lancer's snowflakes joined in the hazy windstorm, creating a prophetic telling of the destiny Jeanne d'Arc craved with all her might to change and to desperately alter in its wake. It was a foolish and courageous gamble yet here she willingly stood unshakable, ready to demand a different fate. A fate where she could stand beside Sieg, the ruby-eyed man of her heart's truest desire.
Sieg… What have I done?
Happy Friday! Thank you for being so patient everyone the past two weeks. I was swamped with Microbiology. As a thank you for waiting, here is the longest chapter to the story so far. Thank you so much Nerf585, giacomoX, KitsuneRose16, MusashiMayhem251, and of course the amazing derrickfoo0 for taking the time to review! Seeing what you guys are thinking and feeling makes it all so worth it. I really appreciate the time you all put aside to review afterwards. I value your time and effort more than you will ever know so thank you for being supportive of the story. I appreciate you guys dearly! Additionally, special shout out to Nerf585 who messaged me with the idea of bringing Jeanne Alter into the story! Ended up liking the idea way too much so it took a bit longer to get the creative juices flowing on how to move forward. Hope you liked the chapter friends! Let me know your thoughts. (: