Disclaimer: I do not own any characters that appear in this story. They belong to their respective creators and companies.
I hope everyone had a good holiday and pumped for 2013! It's time to continue this adventure and find out what happens next.
Chapter 14
Lineage of Magic: Frailness of Heart and Sword
Emiya Residence
It was just after 7:00 when Shirou Emiya finished eating his dinner with his guardian Taiga Fujimura and his 'sister' Illya. The young male teen, who won the Fifth Grail War, was about to collect the dishes and get things cleaned up before doing his usual training regimen.
He's been doing this since the battles ended, keeping up with his magical training. Of course it's been quiet as of late.
A typical evening usual went with Taiga would usual bum off food from him since he was a good cook and she didn't have an ounce of shame in admitting that fact.
She was laying down taking a nap of all that she inhaled with a ticked off Ilya nagging her about being a glutton.
Shirou always smiled at this. He didn't seem to mind how much noise the two made. In actuality it made him happy, it proved to him things have changed since his dad died and he wasn't as alone as he thought he was.
He remembers the day clearly when Kiritsugu died. In the beginning when the mage found him after the fire, he was quiet which was understandable since he lost his birth parents in the Fuyuki fire that happened a decade ago.
In time he opened up to his new dad but he called him "Old man" instead of father.
This always made Kiritsugu chuckle at him and he always asked him why he calls him that then dad.
Shirou responded with, "Because you seem more like an old man at times and I'm more comfortable with that!" He then would laugh without a care in the world and Kiritsugu would always smile.
During this time he knew of his dad being a magus and an infamous assassin known as the 'Mage killer'. He asked to be trained in magecraft but Kiritsugu, who went through a lot of pain because of it, forbade him until he was eventually brought down. He conceded to that Shirou would only work on it in secret.
The teachings were basic and incomplete which would hinder him later on. It was a full moon as the father and son was enjoying each other's company.
This was when Kiritsugu explained his past dream of wanting to become a 'Hero of Justice' to Shirou.
Shirou, who admired and loved his dad, said he would carry on that dream since he was to old to finish it.
That was the last time I heard him speak. Shirou thought in sadness. I'm sure he heard me declare that but when I looked at him he had such a peaceful expression. I had no clue he passed on.
Upon finding out that his dad died it left him frustrated and angry. For a while he thought he wouldn't get over the sadness but he did eventually however he rarely visits his dad's grave, which was behind the Ryudoh temple.
Since everything that happened to him last year, becoming partners with Saber, fighting in the War and meeting Rin, Illya, the conceited Archer and discovering his potential in the battle with Kotomine and Gilgamesh, he's changed to a resolute man who stands by his ideals.
Of course after the war was another story. He dated Rin before she ended the teenage romance. He didn't expect it but he wasn't all that surprised. He knew that Rin figured out he was still harboring feelings for the woman he fell in love with, Saber.
In the end I wonder if she found her Utopia in the end. I convinced her to not change her past. That she should accept everything that happened to her during her time as king.
A soft smile adorned his lips. She left with a smile and said she loved me. And I loved her. It was inevitable that it would end.
It was true that Rin wasn't a bad girlfriend, in fact he found himself happy for a while but it's not like he could purge the blond-haired girl's image from his heart or mind.
In time that proved something Rin couldn't overcome. He was left wondering how a couple of days later she left for England to study being a more competent mage.
They didn't leave on bad terms but a part of him wondered if that had something to do with it. Then another problem seemed to becoming in the wings.
His friend Sakura Matou, the one he saved from Caster's clutches was acting unlike herself. He noticed this change for a while now. Since Sakura is normally composed and polite she didn't show any of her real feelings.
At least until now that is when she marched up to him after 5th period one day. He noted the dark attire she was wearing and seemed more lustful to him. She tried to seduce him and said un-lady like things of all the things she wanted to with him.
Since this came out of left field he didn't know how to react. He was able to, kindly, turn her down. That's when it went south. With a cold look she berated him as a hopeless idealist who has sacrificed himself for no better reason then making him look good to his peers.
Shirou couldn't believe his ears at what he was hearing. He tried to refute that and stay calm but she continued to spit out hurtful things and told him something else that still shook him to his core. That she loved him!
When he heard that it stopped him cold. Sakura loved him? He knew she admired him for his determination for never giving up but he didn't know that.
With a look of being beneath her heel she scoffed at him. She also brought up on how he dated Rin instead of her; how she was there before Rin and Saber and how she cherished the time they spent together before everything happened.
After that declaration she told him she would be cutting her ties with him. That from now on she would be looking out for number 1 and that he would regret ever traipsing over her heart.
Upon thinking about that he sighed. This didn't go unnoticed by his 'little' sister. "Shirou what's up you've thought hard all through dinner and didn't speak much."
He plastered on a fake smile and responded, "It's nothing just wondering how I'm going to get through the remaining year before college entrance exams."
Illya was too crafty to fall for that but she conceded and answered, "If it's you Shirou, I'm positive you'll do fine!"
This placed a real smile on his face. He liked being a big brother even though he found out that Illya was really the 'older' sibling but given she's a child of a homunculus and that she is the greatest homunculus, she never aged.
When it looked like he was about to go about his business Illya said something profound. "It's the change that happened to Sakura isn't big brother?"
He stopped and looked at her. Shirou knew it was true that he couldn't hide anything from Illya. Just because she had the body of a child she could comprehend a lot of information.
"How did you know?"
"I heard about it from Taiga one night. I'm also shocked about her behavior and her denouncing you like that."
This got out another sigh from him. "To think that all that kept up inside her. I had no clue she thought that way about me. She even bad mouthed Rin for moment before stopping herself."
Illya didn't say anything for a moment and helped Shirou place the dishes in the sink. Shirou then washed them with Illya doing the drying and placing them on the rack.
It was a quiet moment before she said the following. "It is foolishness on your part for not noticing her feelings in the first place Shirou."
Shirou eyes got wide. "Illya what do you…." He trailed off until he noted that she had a serious look on her face.
"Shirou you are a compassionate guy but you have a tendency not to notice the people around you. In all honesty I kind of agree on what she said to you about not seeing them."
"But Illya," he tried stopping her but the girl was going all out.
"No but's Shirou, you told me before getting to know Rin and being partners with Saber, and she was with you in the beginning right after your work accident? You taught her to cook and got to know her on a personal level. Yes she is a sweet girl but trust me when I say her motive wasn't just out of altruism."
Shirou remained quiet at the speech.
"At first yes, she did admire you for your tenacity and vigor but she grew to love you as a person. I'm thinking she could love you despite your saving people complex. You know, kind of like a certain magical boy wizard."
He was going to comment on that but she silenced him with her piercing red-eyes that felt like she could pin him to the wall like a bug.
"You never thought she could feel any emotions at all, that she was just like some porcelain doll? If that's the case then maybe you deserved to get gunned down by her given that you took her for granted and thought she would always be there."
After brining that truth for all to see Shirou had a look of shock at first then it went to sadness. It was hard to say out loud but Illya was right. He never thought about her feelings and that given her temperament she would just accept things as they were.
He gave himself credit for knowing that she could be stubborn when she wanted to, thinking about the time Rin moved into his home and she told her she didn't need to come anymore.
Granted Rin had an ulterior motive for making sure Sakura didn't get hurt during the Grail War but she continued going about her business and staying with Shirou.
Not only did he fall for Saber but dating Rin for two months and then finding out about Sakura's love for him made all the more complex.
How does any guy find themselves in a situation where people from the opposite sex find him attractive or have this forlorn love for the guy without the male knowing.
Illya saw the sad look on his face and relented. "Of course I don't like the fact she made you feel bad about the situation and then saying making you pay is off the deep end so I guess it balances itself out a bit."
Shirou shook his head. "Nah you were in the right to say that to me. I'm not sure how I feel for Sakura but I don't want things to end this way. I will figure a way and she will go back to normal."
"I know you will big brother!" Illya said smiling.
Shirou ruffled her head in affection and they continued with the mundane chores. A couple of minutes later they walked back into the living with an awaken Taiga looking in deep thought.
"I see the tiger is awake from her hearty meal," teased the girl. "Does the tiger want something sweet to eat before parting to her lair?"
Taiga gave the girl a growl and Shirou could tell she would blow like a volcano.
This isn't good… He backed away ever so slightly.
But shockingly the adult didn't say anything but did give Ilya a death glare before telling Shirou something.
"I couldn't help overhear you talking about Sakura," she began.
The projection mage gave a sad frown. "Yeah, to think she would change this much I'm wondering what we should do about this."
Upon saying that Taiga fidgeted which caught his eye.
"Taiga what's the matter?"
"About that, I contacted another person about this wondering if she could help…"
When he heard that Shirou's eyes widened, "You contacted Rin? Why would you do that." His voice got a little loud.
"Well it's not like I couldn't ignore Sakura's behavior. I mean they are sisters Shirou, this doesn't just affect you!" she reasoned with adult logic.
"Besides I know you two have some issues to work out but this isn't just about you two." She continued.
Shirou grumbled at that. He knew she was right but still he was not sure if he was ready to face Rin again if he should see her.
In the beginning of dating she revealed to him that Sakura was her younger sister. Like anyone finding out new information it left a weird feeling in his stomach.
She didn't go into much explanation but just told him about the pact her father made with the head of the Matou line and having Sakura live there.
Of course she didn't know about the hardship she faced but did try to keep tabs on her. Then with that it finally clicked something in Shirou's mind about why Rin worked tooth and nail to save Sakura at that one time.
Rin did mention about Sakura coming from a long line of mage's but I thought it was a different family and not her family. I just thought they were childhood friends.
After thinking about that he asked when Rin was coming back.
Taiga shook her head and responded. "I'm not sure. She mentioned coming on her summer break which isn't too far off." She then took a bite of a cracker which was on the table. "That should give you plenty of time to get your facts straight Casanova."
The teen grimaced at that. "No need to call me that."
"Why not, it's true. Kiritsugu would be so proud of how many women you know. Why you have your own little harem." She responded poking fun at him.
Illya also hopped on the band wagon. "Yeah but I'm at the top of the list, right Shirou!" She soon wrapped her arms around his waist.
This made Shirou sigh and sweatdrop. Again how does some guy get tons of girl's affections when he is just nice to them?
Taiga eyed the white-haired monster. "That's not very "sibling friendly" you brat. Get off him this instant!"
The snow-fairy gave her guardian a sly look. "Why Taiga; is someone of your age jealous that Shirou likes me more than you? "She broke into a giggle.
The short-haired woman's mouth hung agape at what she said. "Don't bring my age into this and don't put me in the same boat as you. I think of him as a sibling nothing more."
Illya continued giggling wickedly. "Uh-huh, keep telling yourself that. Be careful Taiga, you will be hitting old age by the time your 30 and then no one would want a decrepit old maid like you."
Shirou stood in the battlefield like a deer caught in the headlights. He knew that Taiga was sensitive about her age and for Illya to bring that up was a taboo in the highest fashion.
Oh crap Illya, why did you have to say that! He quailed as sweat was dropping all over his body.
The tiger was unleashed. Giving a roar that would do even a lion proud she jumped over the table, grabbed the insolent girl who dared unleash her wrath and started spinning her around like a twister.
The poor girl screamed her head off as Taiga yelled. "THAT'S IT, I'VE HAD IT UP TO HERE WITH THAT SMART-ASS MOUTH OF YOURS. OUT WITH THE TRASH!"
And with a mighty throw and a conveniently placed trash barrel located near the living room Illya landed in there with a thump. Her legs started moving back and forth.
Shirou sweat dropped and sighed at how Taiga disciplined his sister. "Taiga…" he stopped as the tiger growled at him, her eyes like fire and fangs hanging out her mouth.
"Uh I saved some dessert so you can have at home for a midnight snack." He easily said holding out the said dish.
Taiga's mood shifted to absolute euphoria and hugged him tightly. "Oh Shirou thank you!" she said and rubbed her cheek against it.
Good thing I had that with me. I had a feeling something like this would happen.
Illya got up from the trash bin like nothing happened and glared at Taiga, who was still in her happy place.
"Hmph and this is my guardian…" she scoffed.
Shirou patted her shoulder and whispered. "You know she wants what's best for you. Don't rile her up too much."
Upon hearing that the girl looked in his eyes with a hint of sadness. Shirou saw that and wondered what she was thinking about.
"Illya what's wrong, you have something on your mind?" he asked.
Illya was about to tell him about her situation but stopped at the last second. She didn't want to burden him with her problems given what is happening to Sakura.
"I just wanted to tell you don't give up on Sakura. I'm positive it's just a mood she's going through. Hey it could be that time of the month!" she said brightly.
Shirou gave her a look and gave an uneasy chuckle. "Yeah I'm sure that's it…"
When the commotion died down the two guests were about to head on back.
"Well Shirou thanks for the meal!" Taiga said with the dessert dish in her hands. "I'll check on you in the morning!"
Shirou let a snort escape his lips. "Please you just want a free meal…" he stopped himself as the eye of the tiger glared at him with the thrill of the fight.
"I mean sure Taiga-sensei! I'll be sure to make your favorites in the morning!" he cried out desperately not wanting to invoke her wrath. That would be bad on many levels.
Taiga smiled like a proud older sister and waved at him with Illya following her mumbling how she should move back to the Einzbern estate.
After the two were out of sight he headed back inside. Shirou locked the doors and headed to the back yard.
Given that this was his dad's place the back yard had its own dojo and a shed. Kiritsugu owned a lot of property when he was alive.
It was a rather spacious area since the house had a Japanese style setting compared to where Rin and Sakura lived, whose houses were High Victorian styled houses.
Taking a deep breath of the night air Shirou closed his eyes and held out his hand.
"Trace on…" he whispered.
Think about what you want to create! His magical circuits activated as a glow came from his hand. Think of the composition; get the reputation correct of what you see!
The image of what he was thinking was becoming real as a long silver-blade came from his projection into his hand.
He opened his eyes and looked at the handiwork.
"Not bad, I'm getting better at conjuring these weapons." He complimented.
When Shirou ended up battling he was a hack for a Master given that he didn't know the first thing about magic or how to heal his own Servant.
After a couple of battles (and luck) he found out what he could do during his battle with Berserker, Projection.
At first he could only do reinforcement; to enhance characteristics or change an object. It was difficult magic but he did learn the basics; of course given that he was not a child of a magus by blood, it was difficult for him.
This was what he used to fix an old heater at school by analyzing its composition and understanding like reading a blueprint.
The next magic in his arsenal was tracing; a higher level of projection. He can copy an object in shape and form. And since he had affinity to weapons (especially swords) that's what he mostly creates.
He can create anything he's seen but if he were to project a weapon and doesn't understand like if the material isn't of this world then he can't create it.
I've trained myself for over a year. With Rin teaching me more about magecraft before leaving, I'm getting the hang of this. Of course I still lack some magic circuits so there is only so much I can do.
After thinking that he wondered what was Rin doing now. He was still feeling antsy about her coming back. Of course if anyone could help Sakura then it was her.
"I wonder if she's still mad…" he wondered for a moment and a demonic image of the said girl appeared with red horns and a tail. She was sticking his butt with a pitchfork as he tied up over a flaming pit of fire.
He gulped and lowered his head. "Yeah she would probably do that when she sees me…" he trailed off then a sharp pain went through his head.
Shirou grunted as he got to his knees. He started feeling nauseous. "What the hell is going on?" he said.
As he opened his eyes he saw a peculiar sight; a woman wearing a sailor suited attire, fighting, to his shock, the deceased Rider.
"Is that Rider?!" he croaked out. He continued seeing the image as he saw the supposed Servant battling a woman with sandy-blonde hair on a snowy field.
How am I seeing this? He thought as he was getting more and more nauseous. From his vantage point he saw the Einzbern castle in the background.
Isn't that Ilya's home? He tried to get his bearing on what he was seeing until the image closed off.
"Ahhhh!" It felt like an electric shock went through him and landed on the ground.
It felt like something, rather abruptly cut off the feed to what he was seeing.
Rubbing his aching head Shirou got up from the ground and panted.
"Why did I see that and what was Rider doing there?" he began trying to sort out everything he'd seen.
Shirou could remember that Rider met her demise thanks to Saber using her Excalibur. How was it possible she was still alive?
The teenager was able to get in the kitchen and drink a glass of water. "I saw Rider and she was fighting some woman…and it was outside Illya's old place."
As he tried to rationalize the image he wondered how he saw that. Could it be something happening now?
Shirou wanted to go and see for himself but he was still feeling like crap.
I'll go out there after school tomorrow. This is too important to pass up.
After drinking all his water he headed up to his room and as soon as his head hit the pillow he was out like a light.
Shirou would soon be involved in this situation as soon as school started with many changes.
Fuyuki Park
After Sailor Mars and Rin defeated the giant shadow as they revealed certain things about each other.
The Princess of Mars told the magi about how she came to this dimension and what she was. Rin in return told her about being a magus and the circumstances behind Rubin, the talking star necklace.
"So let me get this straight; you are from another universe entirely and brought here to save someone?" Rin asked with her arms crossed.
Sailor Mars kept a scowl of her face and answered. "Look that's what it boils down too. It might seem out of the ordinary but…"
The female magus held out a hand. "I'm not saying I don't believe you, I just want all the facts. You are also a solider of justice who is the protector of the fourth planet from the sun Mars?"
Mars nodded her head once.
Rin sighed. "Honestly who would have thought there would be other worlds out there." She began as Rubin gave a chortle.
"Well I did tell you but you didn't believe me…" he said.
Sailor Mars gave the necklace a look. "I'm still amazed that pendant you are wearing can talk." Of course Luna and Artemis are talking cats that can turn human so I shouldn't beshocked by this.
"It's more annoying than amazing believe me." Rin said.
"So you are a magus huh? Mind if I ask you something?"
Rin gave her a gesture that she could.
Sailor Mars soon said, "Do you know anyone who was in something called the Grail Wars?"
When she heard that her eyes got wide. "Why would you want to know that?"
"Because this might correspond to what I'm doing here with two of my companions." She said.
Rin was going to ask her more about her mission until she heard a beeping noise.
Sailor Mars had a frown on her face before taking out her communicator. On the screen was Arturia.
"What's up Arturia, I'm kind of busy at the moment?" she said trying not to sound irritable.
Arturia… Rin thought curiously.
"Mars I'm done with my investigation and I'm back at the hotel. I haven't seen Haruka anywhere and it's pass the time when we were to meet."
Sailor Mars looked at the time and she was right. "Sorry, I had to take care off something but I'm on my way now. And Haruka is not back yet?"
"No she hasn't. But I tried contacting her but she didn't pick up." Arturia revealed.
That got the red-skirted girl wondering what happened to her colleague. I know we are having issues but it's not like her to decline a call… "I'll go find her so stay at the hotel if she comes back." The Sailor instructed.
Arturia acknowledged her and cut off the feed.
"So is one of your companions in danger?" asked Rin.
"I wouldn't say that but.." Mars then pressed a button and a holographic image appeared and scanned where Uranus was.
Rin looked impressed. "Your technology is better than."
Mars grinned. "Well in my world it has come a long way." A yellow spot then appeared on the image.
When Rin saw this she got a serious look on her face. "That's the Einzbern estate. I wonder why she is there."
"Could you take me there?"
Rin looked at her and nodded. "Yeah I can do that but we might need transportation since it is a way out there."
That's when Rubin spoke up. "Hey legs you could use me!"
Sailor Mars shot an indignant look at the necklace. "Don't be giving me weird nicknames and how would I use you?"
"Well just place me in your hand and concentrate on that friend of yours I can take us there!"
The two girls looked at each other and then at the accessory.
"Are you sure…" Mars hesitated.
"He is trust worthy so what can it hurt to try…" Rin said trying to sound confident.
The aqua-eyed girl took off her necklace and gave it to Sailor Mars.
As soon as The Senshi placed her hands over the trinket Rubin gave a perverted moan.
"Oh yeah right there…"
This caused a look of revulsion on Rin and the Senshi took her hands off.
"What the hell was that you obnoxious lecher!" Mars fired out as a coat of flame covered her hand.
When Rubin saw this the accessory sweated bullets. "Sorry it was a joke!"
The two didn't believe him and casted doubtful looks on it.
Sailor Mars responded with, "How did you end up with that pervert?"
"I've asked that question for a while…" Rin said.
They tried again and Rubin didn't moan in pleasure as the fair-skinned Senshi held him in the palm of her hands.
"Now concentrate and I will get us there. Rin make sure to hold her and not let go. If you do you could end up in a rock or your cells could break into the atmosphere."
"Oh gee thanks for saying that over the death sentence!" Rin responded with sarcasm.
Sailor Mars shook her head and then did as told. Rin placed her hands on Mars's shoulders and a red glow surrounded their frames.
With the magic going around Mars gave a gasp along with Rin. They were experiencing a vison.
(Pandora Hearts OST Lacie Melody starts)
A young Rei was playing with younger Rin and Sakura. They were in the park.
The scenario continued with Rin picking up a flower and giving it to Rei, who smiled.
A toddler looking Sakura saw this and wobbled her way to her sisters. When she walked a couple of steps she tripped. With a surprise look on her face she started crying.
The sisters ran like a shot towards her. Rin got her back on her feet and Rei checked to see if she was all right. Little Sakura continued crying they wondered what they could do to calm her down.
Then the image shifted to Rei coming back with an ice cream cone. Sakura saw this and stopped crying. Rei brought down the cone and Sakura licked it. She started giggling at how sweet it was. Since she was a toddler Rin and Rei helped her finish it off.
Then to end the scene it showed Rei hugging Sakura and giving her a smile. "I'll always look out for you Sakura-chan, along with Rin-chan!"
This brought laughter to the girls. That is until a woman with long black hair and blue-eyes showed up.
"Rei, it's time to go for today." The woman said with a hint of sadness in her voice. "Time to say goodbye to your sisters before Aoi shows up."
The young Rei looked down at her sisters who had sad looks on their faces. Sakura started crying at not wanting her sister to leave.
Rei gave the toddler a hug and one to Rin as well. "I'll see you two again soon." She said giving them a smile.
As they were about to leave their father showed up along with Rin and Sakura's mother, Aoi.
Tokiomi wore a typical business outfit befitted to nobility. Aoi had on a yellow dress and was holding a parasol.
Rei's mother and the Tohsaka's gave each other a tepid look and soon left the park.
The sisters looked on in sadness on seeing their older sister leave.
(Song ends)
The vision soon ended with Mars snapping her eyes open with a dazed Rin looking at her.
"Did you see that?" Rin asked with amazement.
Sailor Mars looked confused and said yes. "First we have to find my companion. After that we will throw all are cards on the table and discuss this."
Rin understood and they didn't bring it up again.
That was me as a child, and Sakura as well…I don't think I can continue denying the prospect anymore but… The pigtailed teen thought with frustration.
The same thought process was going through Sailor Mars as well. That was me and I was playing with Rin and Sakura. This is a second time I've seen them and learning about the circumstances I have to reach the conclusion that Rin is my-
She abruptly stopped thinking as Rubin told her to concentrate since the magic was dying down. The strong-willed Senshi then focused on the situation.
Before they disappeared the siblings had the same thought.
Rin/Mars is my sister!
Then a light enveloped them and they were soon gone from the park.
In the distance stood a man with golden hair and red eyes as he wore cargo pants a black leather jacket with a long-sleeved shirt underneath it.
He sported a maddening grin. "Well, well the flaming bitch is here. And if she is here then the king is here as well!"
He tightened his hand into a fist. "This is what I've waited for. I know Saber is here somewhere in this god forsaken city! When I see her again with Mars I will prove who the real king is!"
Gilgamesh then laughed like a maniac at the prospect of battling them. "I better get back to Einzbern castle but not before vistining an old friend. Shit is about to get interesting."
The first hero soon vanished from his spot.
Einzbern castle (field)
(Pandora Hearts OST Contractor begins)
In the snow-covered field underneath the full moon the clang of metal could be heard as two figures could be seen battling.
Rider, who transformed back into her fighting attire which consisted off a short tight skirt and boots, escaping a sword slash from the Senshi of the Skies, Sailor Uranus.
The sandy-blonde Senshi kept her gaze on the elusive Rider as she caught her by surprise at the speed she was doing. Nimbly dodging all of her strikes and counter-attacking with those nails connected to chain was wearing her down.
Wiping sweat from her brow Sailor Uranus scowled. "Is that all you know how to do dodge?" she griped.
"Don't get upset if I'm not one of those stationary targets you are so used too." The long purple-haired woman gave her an impassive look.
Rider twirled her weapon overhead and threw it straight for the Senshi's head. Taking note of this Uranus swiped the blade and knocked back the metal projectile.
Sailor Uranus sprinted towards her while jabbing her sword at Rider. The former Servant spun around the frontal attack and brought her leg to kick Uranus.
Grunting in pain for a moment Uranus went for an elbow strike which Rider maneuvered her head from and rammed her knee to Uranus' gut.
"Ugh!" the woman coughed.
Rider looked at her raising her eyebrows. "You are lacking warrior or is it I'm just too fast for you?"
"Who are you calling slow." Snapped Uranus. She jumped away from her to get some distance. Brining her fist down a yellow orb launched.
Rider did a couple of gymnastic like back-flips away from the attack which broke apart some of the trees.
Taking that chance Uranus unleashed a sword slash that came hurling towards Rider in mid-flip.
Uranus had a crafty smile. She is not escaping that.
But to her shock Rider threw her nail towards the projectile. The weapon broke apart Uranus's attack. Landing on her feet she pulled her chain nail back to her waiting hands.
"Bitch you just don't know when to quit!" Sailor Uranus spat out.
"Hmph, you are just mad that you aren't beating me like you swore you were going to." Rider easily said. "Before I attacked your kingdom my compatriots and I learned about you Senshi from Beryl."
The Outer Senshi narrowed her eyes at what she said. "So what did the hag tell you about us?"
This got a smile from Rider. "That even though you guys are impressive as a unit and maintaining peace your powers are something to laugh at! You guys have powerful magic but for whatever reason you are lacking depth."
"Are you calling me weak?!" an indignant Uranus cried.
"Hmmm, not by the sort, I know you Outer Senshi are more powerful than the Inners but that's all changing. You don't think you've grown in the past hundred years." She brought up.
Sailor Uranus looked at her with righteous anger.
"I see, well what about those protectors, they put up more of a fight then what you did, the three swordsmen and the woman who put my speed to shame, even though I didn't go all out."
When Rider said that, Uranus had a contemplative thought.
"Even with my eyes sealed, I sensed potential in them that greatly stumped yours! Even though you are the vessels of the planets the powers you wield are less at best."
Our powers are less. Please like I believe that... But then she wondered about everything she mentioned. It is true the guards had a lot of extra abilities more than the Senshi wield.
Rider smirked. She's thinking about it. I have her now.
"You shouldn't underestimate us Rider…"
"Stop being noble about it. Doesn't it kill you that you guys are lacking behind your guards?"
Uranus casted her eyes to the ground, even though she didn't want to admit she felt this way.
"You should give up, I am a former Servant. My powers outshine yours as I have proven. You are just wasting your time."
The stubborn Senshi didn't like anyone telling her she was less than good. Gripping her sword's handle tightly she got in a fighting pose.
"Well I guess I'm going to have to kick your ass to show you my powers!"
Rider placed her hands on her hips. "I've seen them but it looks like I'm going to have to prove to you once and for all why I was part of the Rider class!"
Taking the sharp edge of her weapon she stabbed the side of her neck. Sailor Uranus recognized what she did and remembered what she summoned.
Damn she's going for the big guns. I'm not standing still this time.
The blood started pouring around the area as the blood spread and formed a dome. The membrane turned the area red.
This caused Uranus surprise. "What is this, you didn't do this before!"
Rider's blood stopped spilling as the fort was almost done. "This is my Blood Fort Andromeda. I control this bounded field as a way to collect energy."
Sailor Uranus looked around as the fort covered about half of the area but not the castle. She started feeling weird and her muscles ached.
Medusa saw the discomfort on the tomboy's face. "Feeling a little out of it? That is what this area does to people. This place will dissolve you in time and convert your life force to strengthen mine."
Uranus coughed as it was getting hard to breath. "So I'm going to become dinner for you is that it?"
"Don't be so dramatic, I'm just getting rid of the people who will do harm to Sakura!" she called out.
"Sakura," Uranus whispered.
"I won't allow anyone to disrupt what she wants."
"Fine words but she is going to fall like you are!" Sailor Uranus put up a brave front.
"I will say that it is commendable that you are surviving this area. That just proves you have a certain amount of magical energy to protect you. But your powers will weaken in this place. And if you are wondering animals bodies are already dying for power to me."
So that means she's getting stronger. I gotta put an end to this! Uranus then went charging at the reborn again Medusa.
Rider once again clashed her weapon against the Senshi.
(Theme ends)
In the bounded field Archer continued watching the fight. He was lucky to get in before the dome finished being created. If he didn't make it in time he wouldn't have been able to enter.
"So Rider is going all out against the Senshi, this is not going to go in her favor. I'll be interfering in this just to keep her alive."
Archer was going to wait for the right moment to step in. Another issue was on his mind as he felt someone was seeing what he was.
He automatically knew who it was, Shirou. Since the two are the same being, they sometimes they could tell where the person is even though Shirou did that unconsciously.
That fool found a way to set up a link between us. I truly doubt he knew what was going on though so it's a good thing I cut him off. But now this will lead him in this mess.
The red-cloaked man grunted in annoyance at thinking about his past incarnation. He had pressing matters and that was getting the Senshi out of here.
Archer materialized his bow and a drill like sword came into his other called Caladbolg. Using his reinforcement he changed the weapon to look like an arrow.
Nocking the arrow he waited for the right moment to fire.
I'll only have one chance. I hope that Senshi can get out of the line of fire…
Sailor Uranus was on the receiving end of relentless attacks from Rider. With the fort around the area, there was only so much room she could run and dodge. She learned that the hard way when she tried punching the wall but it bounced back.
Taking a breath Uranus was panting. The fort was draining the life force of all living matter. Since there were no people the unfortunate sacrifice was the woodland animals.
I can't fall here! I won't lose to someone like her. Sailor Uranus swiped her sword and a projectile came at her.
Seeing the slashing attack Rider zipped away from it and came launching straight for her. Uranus continued with the onslaught of slashing strikes but Rider continued dodging at hairs breath.
Gritting her teeth the Senshi went for a World Shaking. The orb came close to hitting which made the blue-eyed tomboy smirk until the purple-haired woman kicked the ball into the air like a soccer ball.
"Oh come on, what in the chances was that going to happen?" the Senshi called out incredulously.
Rider walked toward's her with smile. It was the kind of smile that a cat had just before striking down its prey.
"Like I said before, second class powers you have. Or should I say third class, maybe even fifth at best." The former Servant said. Taking out her nail-chain she started twirling it trying to intimidate her adversary.
She then threw the chain at Uranus, who jumped to the left. Rider sprinted to the dark-blue skirted Senshi and landed a kick to her stomach.
"Ugh!" Sailor Uranus coughed bending down to her knee. Rider continued her assault as she landed a fierce round-house kick to the side of her face.
Uranus was knocked down like a bag of bricks.
"Are you ready to concede, Senshi?" asked the elusive Rider.
Sailor Uranus glared as an answer and struggled to her feet. "You think I'm giving up? I'm just getting started!"
Rider frowned at what she said. "You still won't listen, than die where you stand!"
The Senshi gathered energy into her fist and slammed it against her stomach.
Rider was momentarily frozen, which gave Uranus the chance to get back. Taking a couple of leaps behind her, she lifted her sword. It glowed brightly.
"I'm taking that head off!" she cried and sprinted towards her. Sailor Uranus was about to behead Rider and end this battle once and for all!
CHING!
Sailor Uranus's sword snapped in two. Rider was able to counter-attack with her nail and impale the blade in mid-swing. The nail was close to stabbing Uranus in the face.
The Senshi was in a state of shock. "How…How is that possible…?" she gaped out.
Rider looked on impassively. "You didn't take care of your weapon. That is unfortunate."
The Outer Sailor couldn't believe her trusted weapon broke. Then a feeling of weakness overcame her.
"Dammit, what's going on?" she felt disoriented. I feel a little weak.
Uranus dropped the handle and when it hit the ground it vanished into particles. She couldn't fathom why that happened. "My sword…it's gone?"
Rider looked on in curiosity. "Are you in such shock you can't move? Then I have my chance."
She placed her weapon to the side of her hips and her hands were going for her seal. "Sailor Uranus, you have fought well but this will be the last time we fight!"
Sailor Uranus wondered why she was going to her blindfold until she remembered what Rider said about turning people to stone.
Shit you mean that blindfold stuff wasn't an act? She gritted her teeth in anger for not taking the claim seriously.
Rider took off her blindfold and what Uranus saw was a very pretty girl with pink eyes. Without the blindfold on she could see her face for the first time.
She became mesmerized by the sight. It was like looking at a stature that breathed life.
Sailor Uranus felt more disoriented then she was a moment ago. She tried averting her gaze but couldn't.
Rider in all her splendor, walked up to her. "Yes, you are already trapped. You can't turn away now. My eyes are sealed so I don't turn people into stone who look at me. You should take in respect that if your magic powers were lower, you would have turned to stone. But you are weaker. And with that…"
Rider got close to Uranus. "First I will need a pick me up." She then wrapped her arms around the Senshi's neck. Sailor Uranus couldn't do anything.
The former Servant placed her mouth over her neck. "I'll tell you two things before you die. One: My real name is Medusa, from the legends you've heard. I thought I should tell you that before the end.
The last thing is this: you look nice this close up. You really do have handsome features. I'll enjoy this…" With that said, her mouth was about to touch the skin until she felt the presence of someone in the bounded field.
An arrow came sniping towards the two of them. Taking a risk she grabbed hold of Uranus and rolled the ground.
The arrow hit a tree and an explosion occurred. The blast incinerated the trees.
Getting up from the ground she didn't see anyone at first until a figure walked from the trees.
"How could you be here Archer?" cried Rider.
Archer kept his gaze away from her eyes and looked at the Senshi on the ground. "I see you were about to drain her life force? Good thing I came in time." He said, sounding impassive like hitting a bug.
"You tried killing her too!"
"Oh I wasn't trying to kill her just you. But if you didn't drop her, she would be." Archer stated.
Rider looked at him. "I see you are trying not to look in my eyes, what, afraid of being a statue?"
Archer chuckled. "Please, like I'm afraid of something like that. Bring down the barrier Rider; your battle is at an end."
"Why would I do such a thing Archer?"
"Because you can't beat me Rider." His tone of voice didn't offer a hint of him kidding.
Rider glared harshly at him. She couldn't use her mystic eyes unless he looked at her and that was the one thing he refused to do.
"You didn't drain the Senshi of her powers while in this fort, and I truly doubt you can keep up," the white-haired man stated.
In response she remained quiet.
"Heh, I knew it. I'm going to take a wild guess that you used up a lot of energy and were planning on draining that woman on the ground."
"That is a good theory on your part Archer. But did you know we can still set up a link with our former Masters'. I can assure you, Sakura is more powerful now with the ample supply of mana she has."
The cynical man scoffed in annoyance. "I wasn't expecting that but I don't think she's giving you a boost just yet. If that were the case then you wouldn't need that Senshi," he deduced. "So I' am going to speed up the process so you can burn up all that energy. Besides those eyes of yours is taking a lot out of you!"
Rider grimaced It's been a while since I have unsealed my eyes and it's taken its toll on me.
Knowing that this action was draining her, Rider placed the blindfold over her eyes once again, sealing her powers.
"You've lucked out Archer but I will finish you off, Archer!"
She dropped to all fours and ran towards him.
"Your funeral…" Archer simply said before activating his projections. "Trace On!"
In his mind he saw the two weapons he usually called for in hand to hand combat, Kanshou and Bakuya. They were black and white swords, representing Ying & Yang.
An instant later the appeared in his hands and swiped both in an X slash that diverted Rider's attack.
Rider backed at and got on her hands. Showing off her acrobatic skills she threw out various kicks while spinning her body. The red duster wearing mage dodged them easily using his reinforcement around his legs to keep up with her.
"You are agile but that's all you have." Archer commented as she stopped. "So are you ready to undo this fort?"
"If I don't what are you planning on doing?" Rider said thrusting her bladed weapon against his which he parried and used the sword in his other hand to stab her which she jumped away from.
Archer gave her a sarcastic smirk. "This…" The man closed his eyes and a white aura shined around his figure. Rider became a little spooked.
(Fate/Stay Night OST Unlimited Blade Works)
"I am the bone of my sword, Steel is my body and fire is my blood. I have created over a thousand blades. Unknown to Death. Nor known to Life. Have Withstood pain to create many weapons. Yet, those hands will never hold anything. So as I pray, Unlimited Blade Works!"
Then the area around him changed. The sky turned gray from red, gears appeared in the sky with fire spreading, which didn't radiate any heat. Swords and various bladed weapons appeared on the battle ground.
Rider wasn't expecting as his powers were disrupting her bounded area. "What's going on? Is he somehow able to overpower my fort? How is that possible, is he using his Noble Phantasm?"
Archer's eyes snapped open as his Reality Marble: Unlimited Blade Works completed. It was an area created from his projection. He could create any weapon he has seen in his life.
His powers were counter-acting Riders. Archer held up his arm and various swords started merging together as it became a gigantic sword.
Rider was in a state of shock. "What on Earth…"
"Hmph, I told you I wouldn't waste time on you, now are you ready to release us or do I have to kill you?"
Medusa was in a bind. She refused wouldn't be pushed round like this but if she didn't do it Archer would kill her without a second thought.
Then her area was overcome by his, ceased to exist. The dome was coming down and Archer relented and his field vanished.
(Theme ends)
Sailor Mars, with Rin were soon appeared in the outskirts of Einzbern castle. The two looked around and soon saw a red dome.
"What is this?" wondered a curious Mars looking at it.
Rin narrowed her eyes at what she was seeing and soon rushed near the dome which the raven beauty soon followed.
When they got close Mars asked what was wrong with her.
"I recognized this magic and it belongs to someone who is dead!" she revealed.
Sailor Mars thought on who she could mean until she remembered what Yuko told her. "I'm afraid this has Beryl written all over it."
Rin turned towards her. "Who is this Beryl? You told me your mission but you never mentioned anything beyond that." She stated. "I need to know why you are here and what exactly is happening between me seeing you as a child. I want to know!"
Mars averted her gaze. "Look I want to know the same thing but now isn't the time. I promise once I find out what happened to my companion then we will talk."
Rin glared at her for a moment longer before looking back at the field. "This field is what Rider uses. She was a former Servant called by the Grail during the 5th War. From what I understand Saber finished her off. How she is alive is beyond me."
"I think I can feel in that piece. Queen Beryl, a heinous, evil woman, apparently has revived these Servants from the Grail War you explained,"
The aqua-eyed teen gasped in surprise. "Someone was able to call forth Servants? I've never heard of anyone with that kind of magical power, it's beyond comprehension."
"Yeah, well Beryl has recently gotten a hold of new power and is using it to get rid of my fellow Senshi."
Rin was going to ask more questions until the dome surrounding the area dissipated and what they saw next shocked them.
When the magus saw the white-haired man glaring at the supposed dead Rider, Rin called out his name. "Archer!"
Archer whirled around to see his former Master, Rin Tohsaka with Sailor Mars. "Hey Rin, it's been a long while!" he gave her a smirk.
Sailor Mars' view came to Rider and an unconscious Sailor Uranus.
"Uranus!" she cried in shock then locked eyes with Rider.
The warrior of flames summoned a bow made of fire and shot an arrow straight for Rider's heart.
Rider saw it coming and flipped away from it as it hit a snow patch, melting it.
"What did you do to her, Rider!" she snapped about to nock another arrow.
"Don't worry about your friend Sailor Mars," Archer began. "She is not dead."
Rider soon intervened in the conversation. "But she is weaker than she began."
This piqued the girl's interest. "What do you mean by that?" An angry Mars called out.
The violet-haired woman smiled. "That weapon of hers, I snapped it in two."
"What, how could that be? One of the Talisman's?!"
Archer and Rin, who were putting off the reunion, narrowed their eyes.
"So that's the name of her weapon? Yes, she charged at me like a rampaging animal not caring about her most valued treasure and I broke the blade in two."
This former Servant is someone not to take likely, Mars thought. What kind of powers do they have under their belts?
"Rider, so it is true you have come back from the dead," Rin called out to her. When Rider noticed her she glared at her.
"Rin Tohsaka, the enemy of my former Master, Sakura."
Rin didn't show any reaction when she said that and maintained her stoic attitude. "Sakura is involved then? What happened to her, why is she acting like this, tell me!"
"Easy Rin, don't get riled up." Archer calmed her down.
"I'm just fine Archer. Now Rider, tell me, why are you here? I heard that you and others were brought back by someone named Beryl. Did she have anything to do with Sakura's recent behavior?"
Rider didn't say anything which made Rin angry. She placed her hands in her pockets and had a couple of gems left. "I won't ask again, tell me what I want to know!"
(Fate/Zero OST The Battle is to the Strong starts)
As soon as those words left her mouth a couple of bladed weapons fired like a machine gun at the magus.
Before she could react a red flower shield appeared in front of her blocking the attack. Rin turned to see Archer protect her with his Rho Aias.
The two smiled before turning their attention to the perpetrator.
Everyone's view soon saw the first hero, Gilgamesh.
"Well, well, looks like we almost have the full party, it's nice seeing you curs again!"
Archer, Rin and Mars braced themselves as they saw him.
"Gilgamesh?!" yelled Rin. He's come back as well?
Tch, the king of the world would come at the worst time! Archer thought aghast.
Sailor Mars tightened her fist. "You bastard! So you did come to this place!"
The golden-haired warrior looked at her. "Of course, I wanted to see you again. Along with another…"
He snapped his fingers and a body soon appeared in his arms.
"Arturia!" Mars cried.
"Saber!" Rin yelled.
In the arms of the first hero was Arturia, once known as Saber. She looked unconscious with some cuts on her body.
"How did you find where she was scumbag!" yelled Mars.
Gilgamesh looked at his prize. "I will always know where my treasure is. She is someone only I can touch."
"How is it possible that Saber is alive? Shirou told me she vanished after the war ended?" Rin stated.
"Rin, you will soon discover that some of the Servants are back and this war just got more complex." Archer told her.
Rider saw Saber and her eyebrows furrowed. "So she is alive…"
"Why do you want Arturia, Gilgamesh?"
When he heard the Senshi call her by her name he laughed. "By the Gods, so she goes by her name in her earlier life? How fucking ironic!"
"What's that supposed to mean!" she was about to rant until she thought about what Yuko told her about Arturia being part of all this.
My God, is this how she is linked to this, she was once a…
"Time for a little report Senshi of War cause it's about to get interesting. Arturia, as you call her, was once a Servant in the Fourth and Fifth Grail Wars. She was Saber. That class held the most outstanding stats,"
Mars didn't interrupt his monologue.
"A Servant is a heroic spirit who once roamed the earth and hers is the most fascinating. In history she was hailed as a King when Britannia needed her the most. You've heard of 'him' as someone who ruled as a just but distant King, a powerful Knight among peers, someone who pulled the sword in the stone, and met 'his' end at Camlann."
As she heard this Mars' eye widened at what Gilgamesh was alluding too, "You don't mean?"
"That's right, even if history had her gender mixed up this is, King Arthur!" he held up Arturia's body for everyone to see and said her name for all ears to hear.
Sailor Mars looked shocked by the information. Rin and Archer, who already knew who she was, were still stunned how Gilgamesh captured the woman he lusted after.
"After all this time she's mine. Now Mars, once I finish you that castle will become mine," he said pointing at the Senshi. "My name will once again be feared by all the dogs that walk this world, I will become the king undisputed, respected, saluted and then seen for the wonder I am!"
Gilgamesh soon starts laughing uncontrollable as the heroes glared at him.
The golden-clad man opened his noble phantasm, Gate of Babylon and various weapon floating behind him.
"Now it's time bow down to your king and die like the rotten pigs you are!" he grinned with malice.
(Theme ends)
Sailor Moon: Hey everyone, it's been awhile. With Mars and the others occupied I will be doing the recap for this chapter.
We saw how Shirou was doing after the Grail Wars came to an end but now is seeing weird visions from his counterpart Archer. With all that going on and wondering what happened to Sakura how will he get involved in the battles to come?
Mars and Rin have the same vision of the past, thanks to Rubin, and are coming to the realization that they are siblings but with finding out from about Uranus they go to her rescue and put that on hold.
Speaking of whom, Uranus battles Rider but is soon defeated and her talisman destroyed. With her weapon destroyed she seems weaker and Rider is about to kill her until Archer shows up and tells her to undo her blood fort.
Then everyone gathers on the outskirts of Einzbern castle. With shock going around with Rin finding Archer alive, along with Rider and Mars seeing a knocked out Uranus things go from bad to worse when Gilgamesh makes his entrance with Arturia. He soon reveals her connection to this world that she was once King Arthur.
Whoa I didn't expect anything like that. What's going to happen to everyone and will they meet their end to the king of all heroes?
Find out next time on Senshi Continuum. If you don't read then in the name of the moon, I'll punish you!
(Winks at audience) See you soon!
With that this ends that chapter.
Sorry for the delay on this, life's has been hectic but I'm still chugging along with this story.
If you are curious about Sailor Uranus, her talisman is a part of her, a part of her strength is gone. I know that might be weak but I'm going with that route. She will be able to transform but won't be as 'strong' as she was, at least for a while.
I am building something with that, just be patient. If it seems I'm picking on Haruka and Michiru then sorry. I'm just using them for character development and have nothing against them.
Shirou finally appears. You found out more about his breakup with Rin and him finding out about Sakura a bit.
Illya is his big sister but she does like being the younger sibling in all this but she can act mature when she has to. If you've watched the anime (or played the Visual Novel, which I haven't) she is rather crafty. I want her to come across as mature at times and not some bothersome child, even though she is prone to being obnoxious.
Rubin is becoming more of a pervert by the minute with his interactions but I will tone it down when it's his time to shine when Rin takes on another personae. It will be magical :)
It's revealed (not surprising) that Arturia was once known as King Arthur and battled at Shirou's side as Saber. How she was reborn will be explained soon.
I want you to reread what Gilgamesh said at that long speech he was doing. Tell me, doesn't it sound like a certain black-haired four-legged animal from a popular Disney movie?
If you figured it out then yes I did use a part of Scar's lyrics to Be Prepared from the Lion King. The "King undisputed, respected, saluted and seen for the wonder I am!" that's what I used.
I'm thinking that these chapters will be 10,000 words or less for the time being for quicker updates. Of course it depends on what mood I'm in to finish the chapters.
But it's still going strong and I'm not giving up finishing this story no matter what.
Please review or like Sailor Moon said she will punish you!
I'll see you on the next update.
Catch you later!